The
BALSAMOGillis Family
Making movie magic together
Health Check
Physician and healthcare provider directory
People to Watch in 2020
Top business leaders in our community
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A NOTE FROM THE
editor
Happy New Year 2020! I wish you a year full of peace, joy, and love. Can we ask for any more than that? 2019 was a tough year for some people. Many had to rebuild from the fires, some of us lost a loved one, and others had their own challenges. Yet, overall, it was a good year. The year cannot be defined by some hard times. Life will always have its ups and downs. Over the holidays, I had some time to reflect and to appreciate what it is I get to do for a living and the people I get to work with. Here at CSM, we have an incredible team that is passionate about what they do and always bring their 'A' game. I look forward to another year with this amazing team and bringing you another years’ worth of CSM to enjoy. Keep contacting us with your ideas, suggestions, and questions. We love to hear from you and we are glad you enjoy the magazine so much. We appreciate this fabulous community we get to be a part of! Taking care of ourselves is always a priority when it comes to our health. For this reason, we start off the year highlighting trusted physicians and healthcare providers in a directory for you. These are the go-to people locally to keep you in tip-top shape. In this issue, People To Watch features individuals who stand out and make a difference. These people step up, step out, and are going places in 2020.
Gayle Barnes Publisher/Editor stylepublishing@gmail.com
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Readers... From our
Calabasas Style receives many phone calls, emails, Instagram comments, and Facebook posts from our readers. We would like to share some of them with you.
You are a pillar in the Calabasas lifestyle, so my colleagues and I think you might know the perfect family who would love to have their own show! —- Lorraine Thank you so much for such a wonderful publication. — Galit An extraordinary team of such talented and wonderful people. You guys are terrific! — Steve Thank you for always sharing posts on your social media to support my small business. — Barbara As always, a beautiful issue! — Karen Thank you for always sharing useful information with our community! — Judy Your covers are always stunning. Beautiful families! — Heidi It was so cool to see my friends and I photographed at a local event in Calabasas Style. — Brenda
~ We want to hear from you! stylepublishing@gmail.com calabasasstyle.com 860 Hampshire Rd., #H Westlake Village, CA 91361 310.494.6250 FB: CalabasasStyle IG: @CalabasasStyleMagazine
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PUBLISHER/EDITOR Gayle Barnes CREATIVE DIRECTOR Elissa Linick ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Linda Perry ADVERTISING SALES Kaylie Carafelli EDITORIAL & ACCOUNT COORDINATOR Kaylie Carafelli STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Marvin Steindler CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Steve Geldman Debbie Vaccarello Melissa Westervelt STAFF WRITERS Pax Ansley Lori Berezin Irene Marshall Elena Richards CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Marc Cohen Dr. Anna Guanche Dustin Troyan Mark Wendell Maya Williams CALENDAR EDITOR Amanda Ragatz COPY EDITOR Nicole Schubert ACCOUNTING Karen Dafesh SUBSCRIPTIONS Contact stylepublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING & INFORMATION 310.494.6250 | 805.379.4066 stylepublishing@gmail.com calabasasstyle.com 860 Hampshire Rd., #H Westlake Village, CA 91361
Like us on Facebook facebook.com/CalabasasStyle
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Table of CONTENTS Auto 82 170
Country Club Living Just Another Day Motor4Toys Charity Show
Beauty 76
Anti-Aging Supplements for the New Year
Calendar 178 182
February
People to Watch in 2020 Your CBD Store
MUSE School: Educating Beyond Boundaries
168
Voiceover Artist: Rob Paulsen
Cover Feature 52
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Calabasas Country Club
Destinations 188
Monarch Beach Resort
Dining 176 186
Newly-Remodeled: Mediterraneo
The Balsamo-Gillis Family
Calabasas Style
Mental Health Days Food is Fuel Dr. Jeffrey Glaser Get Fit. Stay Fit! Ask the Pediatrician Fighting Inflammation Ask the Pharmacist Seeds and Their Benefits
Physician and Health Care Provider Directory
Fashion
166
Healthy Choices
66
Home Furnishings
Wine & Dine
January
Community 85 140 148
106
132 134 136 138 142 144 146 150 151
68 72
Discover Tat2 Designs at M.Fredric Styles of the Season Valentine’s Gift Guide
Financial 84
Financial Health and Wealth
Health 126 130 131
Move It or Lose It Is Your Chi Blocked? NeuroSense Psychology
112 116
Décor C Style: Home Design in a New Decade
Our Kids 172
A Parent’s Job Is Never Done
Real Estate 190
What’s New in Real Estate
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54TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CHARITY LEAGUE BALL
____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography by Curtis Dahl The San Fernando Valley Chapter of National Charity League, Inc. gathered at the Beverly-Wilshire Four Seasons Hotel on November 30 for the 54th annual Charity Ball to present eight inspiring debutantes who completed their six-year core mother-daughter program of leadership development, community service, and cultural experiences. Gratefully corseting the historic St. James Bow, the polished young ladies – dressed in sparkling tulle and satin – depict the epitome of truly empowered women striving to make a difference in the world. The San Fernando Valley Chapter currently has over 300 members and provides hands-on volunteer service for 10 philanthropic organizations in our community. National Charity League, Inc., is the nation’s premier mother-daughter nonprofit organization. Through mission-based programming, NCL develops socially responsible community leaders and strengthens mother-daughter bonds. For more information, visit sanfernandovalley.nationalcharityleague.org.
For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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AMAWATERWAYS OPEN HOUSE EVENT ____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography by Melissa Westervelt AmaWaterways
hosted
an
open
house event on Thursday, November 21 at their Calabasas headquarters where special friends, guests, and travel advisors all gathered for the festive evening.
Family-owned
and operated, AmaWaterways was founded in 2002 with the objective of providing guests with the highest standard of luxury travel by river and to create a river cruise company that owners Rudi Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst, and Gary Murphy would enjoy themselves. That
means
AmaWaterways
of-
fers only the highest-quality, locally-sourced food and wine; elegantly appointed ships with staterooms offering maximum views to enjoy the ever-changing countryside; and a crew who goes above and beyond, treating every guest as a part of the AmaWaterways family.
In 2019, the
company continued innovations by adding three new ships, including the extraordinary AmaMagna—a distinctive evolution of their exceptional European river cruise fleet, offering the ultimate in luxury with even more space and more choices while sailing the legendary Danube. For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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INTERIOR WORKS CALABASAS SHOWROOM GRAND OPENING ____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography by Richard Cassel Interior Works celebrated the grand opening of their new showroom in Calabasas December 5. Since 1989, Interior Works (formerly Tarzana-based The Interior Design Group) has served interior designers, general contractors, and homeowners by offering the very best in material and installation. Their new showroom offers elegant traditional, transitional, and modern collections that can be customized to meet everyone’s project's design requirements. Interior Works offers everything for your home and office, including carpet, rugs, and hardwood flooring. They also offer porcelain, ceramic, and natural stone, the latest designs in window treatments, and extraordinary wall coverings for a modern fashion statement. Interior Works is a mainly referral-based, family-owned and operated business. Brothers Amir and Bruce Ghavami and Bruce’s wife, Bita Milanian, along with their staff are excited to be Calabasas’ exclusive provider of interior remodel services and take great pride in their quality, craftsmanship, and superior customer service.
For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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18TH ANNUAL CASA PACIFICA SPOTLIGHT STYLE
____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography by Melissa Westervelt One of the finest fashion events in Ventura County, the Casa Pacifica Angels Spotlight on Style Fashion Show returned to the Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village on Saturday, November 23. “A Day of Rose” offered an afternoon of fashion, fine dining,
and
boutique
shopping.
Hosts Susan and Ken Bauer and the Casa
Pacifica
Angels
partnered
with Carin Holmenas Productions to produce an exceptional runway fashion show featuring high-style fashions from the collections of celebrity fashion designer Kevan Hall.
A champagne reception opened the
festivities
as
guests
perused
boutique booths with unique collections
of
accessories,
clothing,
and gifts to satisfy every desire. A silent auction offered baskets filled with entertainment packages, personal pampering experiences, and more. All proceeds from the event supported Casa Pacifica’s therapeutic programs and services that bring healing and hope to vulnerable youth. For more information, visit casapacifica.org.
For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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21ST ANNUAL PACIFIC FESTIVAL BALLET SUGAR PLUM TEA ____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography by Nicole Hazz Pacific Festival Ballet’s 21st Annual Sugar Plum Tea Party and Luncheon on Sunday, November 10 was full of sugar and spice as the community and ballet company raised funds for their upcoming Nutcracker season at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza. This year’s event honored Pacific Festival Ballet alumni Leili Rackow who danced with the company throughout her childhood and is now a member of The San Francisco Ballet. The enchanting afternoon at the beautiful Sherwood Country Club featured a special silent auction fundraiser, photo booth, children’s activities, and a lovely lunch. Pacific Festival Ballet is the resident ballet company at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza and celebrates 25
years
in
the
community.
The
company studios and their training school, California Dance Theatre, are located in Westlake Village. For more information, visit pacfestballet.org.
For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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BBSVC 11TH ANNUAL BAGS, BLING & BUBBLY LUNCHEON
____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography by Maddy Rae Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County (BBSVC), a local youth mentoring organization, held its signature fundraiser – Bags, Bling & Bubbly – on Wednesday, November 20 at Sherwood Country Club in Westlake Village. Celebrating its 11th successful year, the champagne luncheon welcomed over 300 guests, raising $189,000 – the event’s most generous total to date. The
stylish
afternoon
featured
an
amazing array of new, designer, and vintage handbags, jewelry, accessories, and experiences available for purchase or by auction and celebrated the mentorship story of its celebrity guest, Chef Penny Davidi from the Food Network. Big & Little Sisters of the Year, Kate and Angela, also shared their journey through the mentoring program. Sponsors of the event included Williams Homes, UCLA Health, Engel & Volkers, and many more. BBSVC helps local youth realize their potential, facilitating more than 1,500 one-to-one
mentoring
relationships
annually. For more information, visit bbsvc.org.
For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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STONEHAUS 7TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY AT THE WESTLAKE VILLAGE INN
____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography by Marvin Steindler Locals and guests celebrated the 7th Anniversary of the Stonehaus at the renowned Westlake Village Inn on November 7. The event was created in partnership with Veuve Clicquot, who provided a fun and fashionable Veuve Camper Bar on wheels that served up delicious bubbly throughout the celebration. The setting of the Stonehaus transports you to the heart of Tuscany, where you are surrounded by pristine acres of vineyards, waterfalls, and lakes. Since its opening, it has become one of the most popular mingling and dining spots, where patrons can sample traditional charcuterie, healthy salads, and thin-crust pizzas made to order in the authentic outdoor oven. The venue boasts indoor and outdoor space, replete with romantic fire pits and rustic picnic tables perfectly suited for wine tasting and casual dining. Its 500-bottle wine cellar and private room that seats 50 people make it the ideal venue for anniversary parties, wedding receptions, and other festive occasions.
For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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MONA FOUNDATION GARDEN GALA
____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography by Debbie Vaccarello November 9 marked the reestablishment of the annual Garden Gala to benefit Mona Foundation for Tammy and David Wood at their Hidden Hills home. After a respite last year when the Woods were forced to relocate due to the Woolsey fire, they were happy to host the newly formed Los Angeles chapter for a perfect afternoon. Over 100 guests enjoyed Indian cuisine provided by Command Performance Catering and a live auction featuring home furnishings from Interactive Health and Interior Archaeology. A moving presentation was shared by Chapter members, and Tammy and David shared about their recent trip to India where they visited some of the Mona Foundation-supported schools. Mona Foundation’s goal is to alleviate global poverty and support community-led transformation so that no child ever goes hungry, is lost to preventable disease, or deprived of education for lack of resources. For more information, visit monafoundation.org.
For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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SAFE PASSAGE HOSTS TIME TO HEAL 17TH ANNUAL FUNDRAISER
____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography by Debbie Vaccarello Safe Passage hosted their largest fundraiser of the year on Sunday, November 3 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village, continuing to expand their mission with the launch of their Time2Heal initiative. Among the festivities of the annual fundraiser were a delicious brunch, a performance by the Pacific Festival Ballet, silent and live auctions, and a designer fall fashion show presented by Macy’s Topanga. Mistress of Ceremony Sandra Mitchell, KCAL 9 Emmy Award-winning news anchor, reconized Mayor Rob McCoy with the "Good Samaritan Award.” In addition, Luisa Diaz Brown was recognized as a “Woman Crowned in Glory.” Safe Passage is a nonprofit organization serving Southern California and dedicated to breaking the cycle of domestic abuse with programs that help heal and empower women and their children. To become a sponsor, make a donation, or find out more, visit safepassageheals.org.
For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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CALABASAS COUNTRY CLUB CELEBRATES NEW CALABASH ROOM
____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography by Marvin Seindler The Calabasas Chamber of Commerce celebrated the opening of the new Calabash Room at the Calabasas Country Club on December 12. The Chamber had an official ribbon-cutting ceremony with new Calabasas Mayor Alicia Weintraub in attendance. The Chamber also hosted a toy drive to benefit the Child Care Resource Center.
The Club’s
new Calabash Room will add 3,400 square feet of event space – perfect for hosting private parties and receptions as well as expanding the dining capacity for an additional 150 for regular club events. The architectural design has large retractable windows ideal for hosting both indoor and outdoor events, with an expanded view of the stunning golf course below. The club also has a beautiful new pro shop which was part of the new construction plan. If you are planning your private parties or corporate events, contact Vanessa, the food and beverage manger, or Heather, the event manager, at 818.444.5545. For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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The Balsamo-Gillis Family
Movie Magic Making
Together
By Lori Berezin Photography and cover by Marvin Steindler Calabasas couple Alec Gillis and Alaine Balsamo and
had. In this market, it’s all about self-reliance and not
their four daughters clearly know their way around a
waiting for someone to wave a magic wand.” Alec
movie set. Alec began working in the entertainment in-
and Alaine love to watch their kids use their talents
dustry four decades ago on such renowned films as Al-
proactively to build their ideal lives.
iens and the original Predator. In 1988, he co-founded an entertainment company, ADI, with Tom Woodruff, Jr., crafting creatures and makeup effects for Tremors and the terrific Alien franchise. He also worked
on
Starship
After
graduating
from
Columbia
University,
Camille is currently pursuing a career as both an actor and producer. She produces films for the Oscar-winning
Troopers
visual effects company New Deal,
and more recently It, Godzil-
which won Best VFX for First Man
la: King of the Monsters, The
and Interstellar. She and her
Predator, Annabelle Comes
husband, actor/writer Reid Col-
Home, and The Nun.
lums, also wrote and produced the
Alec and Alaine managed to
provide
their
four
sci-fi
feature
Wellwood,
teaming up with Alec, who pro-
girls
duced and created the film’s
– Camille (30); Devon (28);
alien FX.
Grace (25); and the youngest, Bella (20) – with all the creature comforts they needed growing up in their charming West San Fernando Valley community. And now, a passion for
Devon,
a
UCLA
graduate
and
award-winning writer, crafted a short film called Fellowship that is currently doing well in film festivals. She also worked in a va-
filmmaking runs in the family as all four girls are ac-
riety of capacities on such shows as Dirty John, Pen 15,
tive in the entertainment industry. Alaine’s graduate
and Colony. Her upcoming marriage to fiancé Gabe
degree in marriage and family counseling and work
Gault, an accomplished muralist and portrait painter,
in education helps her keep everyone grounded while
will merge both their passion and creativity.
they pursue careers in the oft-unpredictable entertainment industry.
Grace, a versatile makeup artist whose talents range from fashion shoots to heading up the makeup and
“All four of our kids are extremely talented and mo-
hair department on Wellwood, also creates miniatures
tivated,” notes proud papa Alec. “I'm thrilled about
for movies. She’s already contributed to such impres-
that. Creative passion helps shine a guiding light to
sive films as Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, The Mum-
keep you focused on the positive. A career in the com-
my, and First Man.
mercial arts and entertainment is not for the faint of
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heart. All we can do is offer advice when asked and
Bella studies acting at the Strasberg Institute in Man-
hope they can create as much good fortune as I've
hattan. She has per formed in a number of short films
Calabasas Style
and worked as production assistant on various family features. If her mother has any say in the matter, she'll soon be moving back to Los Angeles. When time and location permits, the family loves to watch movies together, attend live concerts and comedy shows, hike, go to the beach, and simply hang out with their hairless cat, Nux. Volunteering is also near and dear to their hearts. Alaine and her girls were involved in the National Charity League, San
Fernando
Valley
Chapter,
each starting in 7th grade and going through high school. Alaine still participates in this worthwhile association whose mission is “to foster mother-daughter relationships in a philanthropic organization commit-
ted to community service, leadership development, and cultural experiences.” Alaine also volunteers with Musicians on Call, which brings live music to patients in hospital rooms. Alec volunteered for The Grossman Burn Center. Camille volunteers with a girls’ empowerment program called Step UP. Devon serves on the board of a breast cancer fundraising organization, A Cause for Entertainment. And Grace has provided her makeup skills for teen moms’ Prom Night and a theater production for adults with special needs. They’ve clearly found balance. Continued on p. 54
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Movie Magic Making
Together
Alaine and Alec invest in residential real estate in the community they love, Calabasas, as well as Tarzana, North Hollywood, and the beach cities. Alaine explains, “I love finding and shaping a space where a family will thrive and create wonder ful memories. It's an extension of what I've done for my own family.” A few years ago, they downsized to a lovely home in Calabasas after spending 22 years in Hidden Hills, which produced a variety of emotions. “Although a few of our kids have moved out, our nest is never really empty because the girls always find a reason to return,” says Alaine. Alec displays some of his incredible creations at his studio where people can view his practical effects characters, animatronics, and props. “It's been wonder ful to see how much people appreciate practical effects even though digital VFX has nearly swallowed the marketplace,” says Alec. “Over the last three decades, we've created a lot of movie history within our studio walls.” Just as it would be impossible to pick a favorite child, it is also difficult for Alec to pinpoint his most treasured film. “They’re all my babies, so I can't really pick one. The big budget films like the Alien and Predator franchises get a lot of attention, but smaller films like Sorry To Bother You are a pleasure, as well,” he says. “We won an Oscar for Death Becomes Her and got to work with Meryl Streep. Another high point was working with Robin Williams on Jumanji.” He also loves partnering with younger filmmakers, as the family did recently on their own in-house, yet-to-be-released feature Wellwood. Whether blending their talents on a well-crafted movie or dining together at some of their favorite local haunts, such as Plata and Lal Mirch, the Balsamo-Gillis dynasty continually find ways to stay grounded while making their artistic dreams soar. n
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HADASSAH BLUES FOR BOOBS
____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography by Linda Perry October 24 was a successful evening for Hadassah’s B’yachad Chapter, hosted by Michelle and Phil Conwisar and chaired by Nancy Reiser to raise money for Hadassah Hospital’s Oncology Division to find a cure for breast cancer. Hadassah has dedicated itself to medical research without borders, religious affiliation, monetary needs, or political boundaries. The 120 women in attendance at “Blues for Boobs” painted their own cosmetic bags as they enjoyed a live per formance from 90’s Nation, participated in a silent auction, indulged
in
delicious
food
from
Brent’s Deli, and imbibed fabulous beverages donated by AJA Vineyard, Santa Barbara Winery, Kharma Tequila, and more. Guest speaker Dr. Janie Grumley, M.D., surgical breast oncologist and director of Margie Peterson Breast Cancer at St. John’s Health Center, shared her personalized approach to breast health and advances in breast cancer treatment. For more information, visit Hadassah.org.
For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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12TH ANNUAL MEDLOCK KRIEGER GOLF CLASSIC AND ALL-STAR CONCERT
____________________________________ ____________________________________ Internationally renowned sports artist Scott Medlock and legendary guitarist of The Doors, Robby Krieger, hosted their 12th annual, two-day, star-studded event to raise funds for Simms/Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The event kicked off on Sunday, October 27 with the first of two allstar concerts hosted by Bogie’s, followed by a golf tournament at North Ranch Country Club the morning of Monday, October 28, and the second all-star concert that evening to conclude the fundraiser. Gourmet tastings by Bogie’s, Mastro’s, Q Sushi, and other top local restaurants and fine wines and premiere cocktails were provided for attendees to enjoy on both evenings. The talent lineup included the likes of Jerry Cantrell, Chad Smith, Dennis Quaid, Phil Chen, Tommy Thayer, David Sikes, Adrian Young, Mike Phillips, and many more.
To learn
more, visit themedlockkrieger.com.
For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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WVWC CHAMBER HOSTS WINNSTOCK FOOD AN WINE TOUR
____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography by Melissa Westervelt The West Valley – Warner Center Chamber
of
Commerce
and
its
guests transported back to the 70s on Wednesday, September 18, for the 13th Annual Food & Wine Tour, “Winnstock.” The event was aptly hosted at Winn Volkswagen in Woodland Hills. The fundraiser offered a variety of booths for chamber members and other community leaders to enjoy. It was hosted by local businesses that poured sips of their favorite wine and local eateries serving some of the most popular bites of food around. The West Valley Chamber worked diligently to ensure the event was a success, and as always, it was. Local exhibitors included Calabasas Style Magazine, West Hills Hospital, CMIT Solutions, Fairwinds, and Amazing Lash. Restaurants included Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ, Barone’s Pizzeria, and BurgerIM. Funds raised by the chamber enable them to thrive, further assisting and developing programs to serve the community. For information on next year’s event, visit woodlandhillscc.net.
For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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5TH ANNUAL WALKING STRONG NIGHT OF STRENGTH GALA ____________________________________ ____________________________________
Saturday, November 2 was a milestone evening for Valerie and Jorge Llauro, the founders of Walking Strong, who
hosted
their
Annual
Charity
Gala, “A Night of Strength,” to support Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. The Llauros celebrated reaching their fundraising goal of $1,000,000 in only 5 years, with $340,000 in donations collected that evening. The sell-out crowd of over 300 guests participated in silent and live auctions and enjoyed a musical performance by Keisha Renee. Also recognized during the evening was 18-year-old Elijah Stacy who suffers from Duchenne, who was awarded the first “Pillar of Strength” award. Valerie and Jorge Llauro founded Walking Strong in 2014 with the goal to make their son Alexander and other Duchenne boys the first ever survivors of this insidious disease. Duchenne is the most common fatal, genetic childhood disorder. To donate or find out more, visit walkingstrong.org.
For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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Discover TAT2 Designs
at M.FREDRIC By Elena Richards M.Fredric is constantly evolving to offer clients an exciting fash-
Rather
ion experience that includes timeless jewelry to perfectly acces-
ing the artist's palette
than
sorize each look. One of the store’s newest jewelry brands is Tat2
in terms of color, Briana
Designs, designed by Los Angeles-based jewelry designer Briana
prefers to interpret in
Erin, who has created a collection that is equal parts everyday
terms of gradients and
and runway.
finishes,
and
interpret-
she
in-
corporates an array of
"I keep trends in mind but I believe jewelry memorializes moments so the style should last a lifetime, not a season." — Briana Erin
Briana Erin was born with an artist's mind. Her father, a mas-
mixed metals such as
ter sculptor, and her mother, a graphic designer, surround-
pewter, brass, 24K gold, gunmetal, and sterling-silver plate,
ed her with an abundance of creativity that influenced her
as well as Swarovski crystals, cubic zirconia, and custom-cut,
aesthetic style. Continuing her love of the arts, she attend-
semi-precious stones.
ed the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design to further refine her design skills.
Owner and Jewelry Buyer Mardi Fox believes that Briana’s jewelry line is ideally suited for the M.Fredric woman. "Tat2 Designs
With Tat2 Designs, Briana leans toward antique finishes and de-
has an organic earthiness that always appeals to me,” says Fox.
sign elements that are distinct and personal. Coins – a signature
“When an accessory line has natural elements, it never goes
accent that can be seen throughout the Tat2 collection – are
out of style and will work with all fashion trends. Briana's designs
collected from her travels around the world and lend an air of
make a statement that can elevate the look of any outfit." n
exceptional charm to the designs.
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STYLES OF THE SEASON » Make a fashion statement at the gym or while you're running errands
By Kaylie Carafelli
ADIDAS ORIGINAL X MISSONI
P.E NATION
VARLEY ADIDAS BY STELLA MCCARTNEY
P.E NATION YEAR OF OURS 68
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LUCA HUGH
« FITNESS FASHION FINDS
Calabasas Style chooses accessories and apparel to help you stay fit and fabulous in the New Year
THE UPSIDE
NIKE
PACO RABANNE
THE UPSIDE
MZ WALLACE
THE UPSIDE
APL ATHLETIC PROPULSION Calabasas Style 69
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Valentine's Gift Guide
FVITH If you are looking for a unique, luxe twist on a classic box of chocolate, gift Velvet Moon by FVITH. Their newest fragrance is a gourmand chocolate scent that is seductive, layered, and sinfully sensual. Available in their signature hand-poured noir candle ($45). Shop online at fvith.com
RAIMAN ROCKS Searching for the perfect diamond for your one-of-a-kind Valentine? Look no further! Raiman Rocks designs unique jewelry pieces that fit your wildest imagination. Specializing in large, colorless, and fancy colored diamonds and precious gems from all over the world. 23622 Calabasas Rd., #111 Calabasas 818.224.2222 raimanrocks.com IG: @raimanrocks
COMPLEXIONS CALABASAS Looking for the perfect way to pamper a loved one this holiday season? Complexions Calabasas is offering the newest "non-surgical facelift," CACI Synergy Facial, which banishes wrinkles instantly with little to no recovery time. Make your beauty feel even more beautiful from the outside in. Gift certificates available. 28328 Agoura Rd., #101 Agoura Hills 818.854.5684
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THE KINGDOM The premiere destination for luxury shoes and accessories, carrying new designs straight off the Milan and Paris runways. Whether it’s a beautiful pair of heels, a limited-edition sneaker, or an exclusive handbag, this high-end boutique has something for every fashionista. The Commons at Calabasas 4719 Commons Way, #G Calabasas 818.912.6990 shopthekingdom.com IG: @shopthekingdom
DÉJAUN JEWELERS The core values of Chopard—the House with a big heart— have always been generosity and caring for others. A perfect combination of Chopard’s talisman heart and emblematic moving diamonds, the Happy Hearts collection unites all the world’s big-hearted women. The Village at Westfield Topanga 6320 Topanga Cyn. Blvd., #1650 Woodland Hills 818.888.8292
The Oaks Mall 424 W. Hillcrest Dr. Thousand Oaks 805.495.1425 dejaun.com
SUGAR You can always find something special for your sweetheart at Sugar. Shop all of the newest head-to-toe fashions including the latest from best-seller Raffaello Rossi and unique jewelry to complete every look. With their complimentary gift wrapping, gift giving is a breeze. 982 S. Westlake Blvd., #4 Westlake Village 805.373.0243 shopsugarstore.com IG: @shopsugarstore
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Valentine's Gift Guide EL MIO BOUTIQUE Chic, comfy, and unique clothing made in the U.S.A., France, and Italy. Jewelry, bags, and accessories from all over to match your style. Private shopping available upon request. Friendly little shop in the corner. Inside Regency Salon Suites 23361 Mulholland Dr., #21 Woodland Hills 818.515.6793 IG: @elmioboutique
CRYSTAL VISIONS SPIRITUAL CENTER Crystal Visions doesn’t only offer services like palm or tarot card readings. They specially curate a wide variety of thoughtful gifts, including Chakra Sprays to supplement your emotional and spiritual journey. Visit the gorgeous spiritual center to learn more. 22231 Mulholland Hwy., #209 Calabasas 818.836.1865 calabasaspsychic.com IG: @crystal_visions_calabasas
BEAVER'S DEN ANTIQUES Find a gift that's unique and timeless at Beaver’s Den Antiques, the perfect place to find precious treasures that hold a history, heritage, warmth, and character. Complimentary personalized gift wrapping makes for the perfect finishing touch. 20969 Ventura Blvd., #20 Woodland Hills 818.881.0690 beaversdenantiques.com IG: @beaversdenantiques
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NOTHING BUNDT CAKES Perfect for your Valentine, and all of your gifting and dessert needs. Every delicious bite-sized bundtini, miniature bundtlet, and sharable bundt cake is baked fresh daily and crowned with their signature cream cheese frosting. Nine classic flavors and a seasonal Featured Flavor. 1610 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. Thousand Oaks 805.446.3082 @nothingbundt
6524 Platt Ave. West Hills 818.340.2253 Kosher certified
YOUR CBD STORE Award-winning CBD products for the ultimate in self care! 100 mg CBD bath bombs and tinctures take it to the next level. Drop in to hear all about the benefits of CBD and choose from a great selection of organic CBD products. Your CBD Store Woodland Hills 22720 Ventura Blvd. Woodland Hills 818.456.4208 cbdrx4u.com IG: @your_cbd_stores
A. MARIE JEWELRY Jewelry made with intention and worn with intention. This gorgeous strand of fresh water pearls is the most popular statement piece of the season. People with goals, passion, and who strive to live their best life wear AMJ™. Available locally at SIANY, Blackbird General Store, BLUSH Calabasas, or online. 833.AMJ.BABE amariejewelry.com
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Supplements
Anti-Aging for the NewYear
By Anna Guanche, MD, FAAD Board-Certified Celebrity Dermatologist Author, Seven Days to Sexy When it comes to anti-aging, I believe in all of it. Exercise, diet, skincare, procedures, meditation—and supplements. The key to benefiting from supplements is to actually take them consistently! Just like exercise and skincare, diligence is key. While your New Year’s resolutions are at hand, it is a good time to take stock in which supplements show the most promise in the anti-aging world. Every morning, I throw a handful of about 25 vitamins and supplements into my mouth and gulp them down with water. Breakfast. This is not advisable for everyone, but in short, I believe in supplements! To be clear, not every medical professional loves them. Supplements are controversial in the medical field, and some can even interact with medications you are taking. So, I’ll say this: Please ask your personal medical doctor before taking something new. Here are a few of my favorite anti-aging supplements.
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N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) This is like a miracle supplement for some. It increases glutathione, your body’s main antioxidant, by about 25%. This means it augments your body’s ability to resist oxidative stress and free-radical damage, which blocks inflammation and slows down aging. NAC is also known to help manage cravings and even reduce visceral fat. Hence, its use in weight management. But that’s not all. Studies show it imparts a feeling of well-being and, therefore, is used as an adjunct in treatments for OCD and other psychiatric disorders. It detoxifies the liver—literally—not just in the pop-culture “detox” sense. It actually is administered intravenously to people who have a Tylenol overdose in order to preserve the liver from damage. I have been taking this supplement and reading more and more great things about it. Every one of my friends and family are now on it.
Collagen Powder Collagen is a protein that is rich in glycine. Supplementing with collagen has been shown to benefit skin health, relieve joint pain, and prevent bone loss. It is interesting to note that collagen is derived from bovine or marine dermis (hide/skin). Most people take powdered supplements that they add to
water or even coffee. I have been on this bandwagon for about two years now. I feel that collagen powder is a beneficial addition to the armamentarium. In some studies, women who took collagen noted a 20% reduction in the appearance of their wrinkles.
NAD+ You may remember nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide from your science classes. It is an important cofactor for cellular processes all over your body, and it declines with age. How can you increase NAD+ in your body? One company sells subscription-based nicotinamide riboside supplements. But there are other ways to do it. Take NAD+ supplements; follow a highfat, low carb ketogenic diet; practice intermittent fasting; or take oxaloacetate. It is difficult to measure the benefits of NAD+, which include protecting your DNA and allowing for maximal energy absorption from food. Elevating NAD+ levels may slow or even reverse aspects of aging and delay the progression of age-related diseases
Glucosamine Collagen II is the common denominator between skin and cartilage, so I take this daily and notice that it helps with reducing inflammation in my knee, plus it is also benefits my skin. We mostly know about glucosamine as it is used for joint health, but there’s growing evidence that n-acetyl-glucosamine can lighten areas of increased skin pigmentation, make fine lines and wrinkles less apparent, and offer some protection against skin damage due to its anti-inflammatory effect. Cell culture studies show that adding glucosamine to skin cells boosts the synthesis of hyaluronic acid, an important regulator of skin hydration. Hyaluronic acid levels decline with age. This partially explains why mature skin is dryer and has a rougher texture than more youthful skin. Hyaluronic acid is also involved in wound healing, and younger skin with more hyaluronic acid heals more rapidly and is less likely to scar. Hyaluronic acid levels in skin decline with age. As an aside, my favorite filler, Juvederm ®, is composed of cross-linked hyaluronic acid.
Heliocare ® This is a fascinating new supplement derived from a South African fern. The fern— polypodium leucotomos—protects itself against harsh UV exposure with multiple compounds. Now, this fern extract is available in capsule form. When taken 30 minutes before sun exposure, it is proven to provide an SPF of about 8 (repeat after three hours if still in the sun). It does not substitute for sunscreen but will help with “missed spots” that inevitably happen at the beach. Taken daily, it could prevent chronic sun damage that occurs over years of incidental sun exposure. There is strong scientific support for the supplement's skin-protecting ability. In two Harvard Medical School studies, Heliocare dramatically reduced the incidence of sunburn as well as damage to collagen and elastin, the fibers that keep skin smooth and firm. That's because it is particularly effective against the "aging" UVA rays that most sunscreens don't protect against completely. It could prevent brown spots, wrinkles, and even skin cancer. This would be a great supplement for surfers or golfers to take daily.
Viviscal PRO ® There are so many hair-growth supplements and snake oils on the market. I don’t have a hair “problem” per se, but I do have a yearly seasonal shed. A few months ago, I decided to try Viviscal with absolutely zero expectations. I just added it to the “pile” of vitamins I gulp down daily, which means I only took
it once a day instead of twice. After a few weeks, I had noticeably shinier hair and many new, tapered, re-growing hairs. My manicurist noticed that my nails were growing faster. I was impressed with the results. Viviscal encourages hair growth using a proprietary marine complex. Known as AminoMar C, it contains a combination of marine protein, minerals, and vitamins that help regenerate new cells and feed existing cells. A Scandinavian professor developed AminoMar C after isolating the key protein molecules of the Inuit's protein-rich fish diet. Viviscal also contains vitamin C, silica, and biotin, which further support healthy hair. Sorry guys! It promotes healthier hair that is already growing but is not known to correct male pattern baldness.
Melatonin Melatonin is known as the “sleep hormone.” I wish I had discovered it sooner! After years of insomnia, this was the cure for me. It may not have the same profound and consistent result in everyone but recent studies find that melatonin has many other positive effects on the body. The hormone melatonin produces a number of health benefits in terms of your immune system. It's a power ful antioxidant and free radical scavenger that helps combat inflammation. Melatonin may even have a role in slowing the aging of your brain. Melatonin increases the life span of animals by up to 20%— prolonging their youthful character in the process. Scientific evidence now suggests that melatonin plays a crucial role in a variety of metabolic functions, including antioxidant protection (stronger than Vitamin E); neuro-protection; anti-inflammatory defense; and immune-system support. Because melatonin production reduces with age, experts believe that its decline contributes to both the aging process and a generalized deterioration of health. The benefits may be attributed to the regulation of circadian rhythms (day/night) body cycles that determine cellular behavior. Beautiful, healthy skin is a function of what is going on both on the inside and the outside. You can help maintain and prevent skin aging with supplements. Of course, sun protection, de-stressing, exercising, drinking water, reducing alcohol intake, and eliminating tobacco are a must. Once we have removed offending factors, we can optimize body function with supplements. My philosophy is that the cells should have at their disposal what they may need. The rest gets filtered out. Of course, each individual will have a different tolerance and a different response to supplements, so proceed with caution. You can read more about supplements, hormone replacement, and the total anti-aging armamentarium in the seven-week and seven-month sections of my book, Seven Days to Sexy, available now at Amazon.com. It is the perfect tome to launch the New Year with. Happy 2020! n
The statements in this article are for general informational purposes only and do not substitute for individual medical advice.
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5TH ANNUAL MUDDY WARRIORS XPERIENCE
____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography by David Sidell, Scott Templeton, Dukevisions November 24 was an exciting day for trail runners, obstacle racers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and fitness levels as they gathered at Corriganville Park in Simi Valley for the 5th annual Muddy Warriors Xperience. The adventure-based trail and obstacle race series was created in 2015 by Klaudia Moran and Laura van der Brug, with a mission to inspire people to believe in themselves, do their best, and strive to overcome any obstacles that stand in their way. Participants battled through a challenging 5K or 10K course that tested their endurance, strength, and fitness. Runners and spectators alike enjoyed a health and fitness fair with local vendors offering contests, activities, raffles, music, food, drinks, and more throughout the day. Muddy Warriors is a proud donor for American Youth Soccer Organization, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, UCLA Public Health, and other charities that support our community.
For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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GRAND RE-OPENING OF EL MIO BOUTIQUE Well-known, local favorite for the latest trends, El Mio Boutique celebrated their newly expanded space at the Regency Salon Studios on Thursday, November 21. Owner Shirin Tamjidi hosted her loyal customers and new shoppers for an RSVP-only event, offering special discounts on her amazing selection of gifts, denim, sweaters, jewelry, and other clothing just in time for the holiday season. Cocktails, refreshments, and other treats were served to all in attendance.
El Mio
Boutique kept its original location, expanding into the next-door suite with huge windows – allowing it the amazing curb appeal it has long deserved. Shirin and her friendly staff now have more than double the space to accommodate a much wider variety of fabulously chic European styles. Visit El Mio Boutique Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and follow them on Instagram @elmioboutique.
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ZIN BISTRO JUMPS IN FOR BREAST CANCER Each year, Zin Bistro Americana in Westlake Village partners with Susan G. Koman for the Cure to help raise money for breast cancer awareness and research. The entire restaurant, staff, and customers were decked out in all pink to show their support for breast cancer awareness. In addition to donating a percentage of the restaurant's sales for the day, the staff collects additional donations to encourage the restaurant's
owner,
Rouz
Yazdanyar,
to jump in the lake in a pink tutu. This incentive never ceases to fall short of exciting and impressive unfailingly increasing donations. For the past three years, Maurizio of Rustico restaurant in Oak Park joined in on the fun as both restaurant owners jumped in the lake wearing their pink tutus. Zin Bistro Americana proudly supports Susan G. Koman for the Cure in increasing breast cancer awareness and finding a cure.
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Just Another Day By Dustin Troyan Photography Steve Geldman
Just another day in California. If you know anything about car culture, you know California is the mecca. What happens in California resonates around the world. We have been and always will be at the leading edge of what is cool in automotive. On any given Sunday, you can see an example of just about every make and model cruising Pacific Coast Highway or Mulholland – roads made famous by movies and movie stars and where the passion for everything on wheels only grows. Supercar Sunday is a great example of the passion for all things automotive. For almost 20 years, Supercar Sunday has been such a staple in the car world that it’s hard to ignore. What has made the show truly incredible over the years is not only the consistency of the weekly event and the support from the community but the variety of the cars and people. This past Porsche Marque Day, two of the finest examples of the revered Porsche 959 arrived in tandem and General Motors brought the brand new Chevy Corvette to share. Which would be rarer to see, two 959s or the unattainable and unreleased 2020 Corvette? Needless to say, the crowd of car enthusiasts went wild, and once again, the show maintained its reputation of being one of the best in the world. Just another day in California. Supercar Sunday is a weekly event presented by Keyescars.com and Porsche Woodland Hills. The event is every Sunday at Pierce College in Woodland Hills. For info: dustin@connectedmediagroup.com. n
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Continued on p. 84
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Financial Health and Wealth
By Mark Wendell Traditional definitions of financial wellness focus on the eco-
cial health. Ideally, economic stability would naturally couple
nomic aspects of a person’s life. This focus points to possess-
with emotional well-being since the ability to withstand shocks
ing enough material wealth to withstand any reasonable
should foster a sense of peace and satisfaction. However,
economic shock and allow for the purchase of today’s grat-
emotional satisfaction and financial wealth aren’t always
ification pleasures but neglects quality of life and peace of
linked. By identifying patterns of thought that may sabotage
mind. A finance-only definition of well-being assumes that
overall financial health, one can make better financial deci-
emotional well-being will automatically follow economic sta-
sions and increase satisfaction and peace of mind.
bility. This is usually not the case. Fearful penny-pinchers may be wealthy but they are not well. Blissful spendthrifts may be
In the Morningstar research, people who feel empowered in
joyful, but the instability of their economic state could easily
their financial lives experienced more joy, peace, satisfaction,
lead to ruin. Financial wellness, then, must be defined in a way
and pride in their financial lives. The size of impact of empow-
that includes economic and emotional health.
erment on emotional well-being is more than twice as large as that of income. Therefore, a sense of personal power, not
What factors motivate better cash-management, debt-reduc-
money itself, may be the key to emotional well-being in our
tion, savings, and delayed-gratification behaviors? Morning-
financial lives. It is the feeling of and the belief in our power
star’s research found that a person’s perspective on time is far
over our lives – not the exercise of it – that is linked to emotion-
more influential than income, age, education, or gender when
al well-being. The solution to feeling disempowered doesn’t
it came to personal finances. A person’s ability to extend her
necessarily lie in behaving differently, but in a person’s belief
or his time horizon into the future versus only being able to look
that only they can shape their own financial future, that noth-
at short-term planning resulted in significantly increased savings.
ing can limit their ability to get ahead, that nothing can stop
In other words, life circumstances matter some but perspective
them, not government, family, or social or demographic inter-
matters more. Having a future-oriented mindset can make the
ference or pressures. By helping themselves think further into
difference between allowing expenses to crowd out one’s in-
the future and to feel more personally empowered in their fi-
come and finding ways to save money.
nancial lives, they can change their economic behaviors and emotional well-being over time. n
According to the American Psychological Association, money is the number-one source of stress in U.S. households, regardless of the economic climate. Given that stress leads to health problems, lost productivity, relationship problems, and overall loss in quality of life, it’s clear that the emotional aspects of a person’s financial life are a critical part of their overall finan-
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MD Wealth Partners, Inc.: A personal wealth enhancement boutique for select clients. mark@mdwealthpartners.com. mdwealthpartners.com. 805.402.8642. Copyright © Mark Wendell 2020. All rights reserved.
People to
WATCH In 2020 • Thousands of books and articles have been written about the different traits and characteristics required to succeed in business. We’ve identified some of the top professional and business leaders in our community and discovered one element that they all have in common: From them, we learned that “success is not the key to happiness” but rather that “happiness is the key to success.” Simply put — If you love what you do and are passionate about your purpose, you have the key to achieving true success. We hope these stories inspire you in your field of endeavor in 2020.
• Calabasas Style 85
People to Watch Rudi Schreiner Co-Founder and President
amawaterways River Cruise Lines
Family-owned and operated Calabasas-based AmaWaterways was founded in 2002. Co-Founder and President Rudi Schreiner was born in Vienna, the heart of the Danube. His love of design drew him to architecture but his love of travel drew him to places far and wide. In 1975, he traveled to South America for a journalism assignment on the Amazon. There, he designed his first ship, using what he could find to build a raft to take him up and down the river. Soon, he started working in travel, creating unique tour experiences in Europe. When the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal was completed in 1992, Rudi envisioned a new tourism business developing around long-distance river cruising. Rudi started the North American operations for many of today’s major river cruise companies, developing itiner-
Known fondly as the “Godfather of River Cruising,” Rudi
aries and ships that became templates for river cruising
was inducted into the Cruise Lines International Associ-
today. After years of success, Rudi started his own venture
ation (CLIA) Hall of Fame and honored with a Lifetime
to provide guests a higher standard of luxury travel by riv-
Achievement Award. Named Calabasas Business of the
er. He teamed up with co-owners and co-founders Kristin
Year 2019. AmaWaterways just announced a relocation of
Karst and Jimmy Murphy to start AmaWaterways.
its global headquarters to a new 50,000 square-foot office
“From the beginning, our goal was to create a river cruise
space in The Park Calabasas.
company that we ourselves would enjoy,” explains Rudi. “To us, that meant the highest quality, locally sourced
“We’re incredibly honored to have AmaWaterways rec-
food and wine, elegantly appointed ships with staterooms
ognized by the Calabasas community. Kristin Karst and I
offering maximum views to enjoy the ever-changing coun-
are also heavily engaged with the local business commu-
tryside and a crew who goes above and beyond, treating
nity and make nearby Westlake Village our home,” said
every guest like they are part of our family.”
Schreiner. “Since starting AmaWaterways in 2002, residents of Calabasas and the surrounding communities have be-
AmaWaterways built one-of-a-kind ships with comforts
come some of our most loyal river cruise guests.”
and conveniences like twin balconies and connecting staterooms to the Chef’s Table specialty restaurant. In 2019, innovation continued with three new ships, including the extraordinary AmaMagna—offering ultimate luxury with more space and choices for guests while sailing the legendary Danube.
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26010 Mureau Rd. Calabasas 800.626.0126 amawaterways.com
People to Watch Kristin Karst
Co-Founder and Executive Vice President
amawaterways River Cruise Lines
A native of Dresden, Ger many, Kristin Karst – EVP and Co-Founder of AmaWaterways – has a degree in the economics of tourism and business management and an MBA from the University of Dresden. After eight years at American Express, Kristin moved to the U.S., where she teamed up with Rudi Schreiner and Jimmy Murphy to cofound AmaWaterways, a Calabasas-based river cruise company. As one of the most respected executives in the river cruise industry today, Kristin is known for her unbridled energy, focus on personalized customer service, and can-do management style. A strong believer in healthy eating and exercise for overall wellness, she champions hiking and biking tours and Wellness Hosts onboard ships, and she
through their actions and words, remain true to our vi-
introduced plant-based menu items and fresh farm-to-
sion that river cruising can be an intimate, personalized,
table cuisine at AmaWaterways. Her special wine cruises
and enriching life experience punctuated with surpris-
hosted by North American wine experts proved so popular
ing, delightful moments that create new friendships and
that they now have over 65 departures through famed
everlasting memories.”
wine-growing areas along the Danube, Rhine, Rhone, and Douro rivers and the Bordeaux region.
Profiled in several top-tier travel trade and consumer publications, Kristin has also received the prestigious
A strong people person, Kristin travels extensively on-
“Person of the Year” award from the Family Travel As-
board the fleet’s 24 ships, meeting guests, listening to
sociation. In September 2019, Kristin and partner Rudi
feedback and always looking for innovative ideas to
Schreiner were the recipients of the prestigious Trav-
meet future travel needs. She continues to devote her-
el Vanguard Award by AFAR, recognizing leaders who
self to her passion for creating special moments that
not only help shape the future of travel but har ness the
tur n an enjoyable vacation into lifelong memories.
power of travel to make the world a better place for
“For me, it’s always been more than just ships, itinerar-
future generations.
ies, and tours—it’s been about the people that for m an important part of our Ama family. It’s all the people who share their smiles, expertise, and personal stories that help bring to life each country we visit and create a better understanding and acceptance of different cultures,” says Kristin. “We are most proud of the people we have hired in our offices and onboard our ships that,
26010 Mureau Rd. Calabasas 800.626.0126 amawaterways.com Calabasas Style 87
People to Watch Glenn Davidow President and Founder
Davidow Financial & Insurance Services, Inc.
Glenn Davidow, president and founder of Davidow Financial & Insurance Services Inc., established his company in January of 1979. With over 40 years of experience, the company is considered one of the most accomplished employee benefits companies in Los Angeles, with clients throughout the United States. Davidow Financial & Insurance Services, Inc., is able to serve the needs of both large and small businesses. Their longevity in the industry, as well as their industry expertise, allows the highly regarded company to negotiate on their clients’ behalf with all of the major carriers, ultimately giving all clients the competitive advantage they deserve. The mission at Davidow Financial & Insurance Services, Inc., is to help employers attract and retain the highest quality employees. To accomplish that goal in today’s competitive
ployee communication materials to take the burden off of
work environment, employers need a good benefits plan.
clients’ administrative personnel. As such, they serve as an
However, with so many options out there, finding a good
employee benefits manager and offer proprietary software
benefits plan that meets each company's budget and spe-
that allows employees to access important benefit informa-
cial interests is difficult, at best. At Davidow Financial & Insur-
tion at all times.
ance Services, Inc., they develop individualized, personalized, and customized solutions that go beyond their clients’
The hot topic for most employers today is compliance. As
expectations. In fact, it doesn't just stop there. Davidow’s
such, Davidow provides employers with up-to-date compli-
clients have a team of Davidow Financial & Insurance Ser-
ance information on every compliance issue to further pro-
vices, Inc., professionals at their disposal, continually ensur-
tect them from negative IRS exposure – especially on the
ing that all clients’ needs are met.
new 1094 and 1095 forms.
Davidow Financial & Insurance Services, Inc., offers a full portfolio of services, including primary coverage for medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life and AD&D insurance, and Medicare supplement insurance. Services also include safeguarding income with long-term and short-term disability, protecting assets with long-term care, 401(k) plans, retirement and pension benefits, annuities, and estate planning. Other services include COBRA, commercial insurance, and Workers' Compensation. One of the key benefits the company offers is creating and producing em-
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Glenn Davidow is as a certified financial planner and a member and former director of the California Life and Health Underwriters Association. He is often called upon for speaking engagements due to his expertise in the insurance and financial planning fields.
20700 Ventura BlVD., #235 Woodland Hills 818.264.1325 Dfinsurance.com
People to Watch Rebecca Amis Co-founder and President
muse school
Rebecca Amis cofounded MUSE School with her sister Suzy Amis Cameron. Since 2006, she has continually overseen the growth and development of this innovative educational institution based in Calabasas that is now comprised of more than 200 students from early childhood through 12th grade and 50 faculty/staff. Rebecca realized early on that educating youth was her passion and life’s calling. Her education includes a BA in Psychology from Bard College and an MS in Child and Family Studies from the University of Tennessee. She was a college instructor in behavioral sciences and liberal arts and founded a Reggio Emilia-inspired school in the Midwest prior to moving to California to be closer to the school she founded with her sister. MUSE School is a nonprofit, private school with two beau-
to-table initiative, students not only learn how agriculture af-
tiful campuses nestled in Malibu Canyon. Its mission is "to
fects the environment but how to grow fruits and vegetables
inspire and prepare young people to live consciously with
that are included in meals the school serves. MUSE School
themselves, one another, and the planet." Rebecca helped
creates a post-secondary culture for all students. With this in
develop the school’s own grade-level goals that align with
mind, MUSE high school students work alongside a college
California state standards and center on an education phi-
counselor to expose them to a variety of academic and
losophy of five pillars: academics, passion-based learning,
professional pathways in preparation for their next chapter.
sustainability, communication, and self-efficacy. “At MUSE, learning is alive,” says Rebecca. “Uniquely, our students
Now, Rebecca and MUSE School are taking this original Cal-
and educators work together to build a personalized cur-
abasas innovation and making it accessible to communities
riculum based on the students' interests. By incorporating
both domestically and internationally with MUSE Global. The
students’ passions into daily academics, we make learning
organization announced its first franchise will open in 2020 in
more engaging.” MUSE instructors integrate English, math,
the San Francisco Bay Area.
science, and history grade-level fundamentals into each of the students’ selected passions for a given semester. MUSE’s award-winning Blueprint assessment method and culmination presentations illustrate to parents how their students achieve their academic milestones. The school, devoted to sustainability, is the first in the coun-
1666 LAS VIRGENES CANYON RD. CALABASAS 818.880.5437 MUSESCHOOL.ORG
try to be 100% solar powered, have zero waste, and operate a 100% organic, plant-based lunch program. With its seed-
Calabasas Style 89
People to Watch Jennifer Lopata FOUNDER
Synergy Academics
With over 20 years of experience in education, behavioral therapy, and child development, Jennifer Lopata has developed an affinity for helping children and teens navigate through adolescence and early adulthood. Earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology from UCLA and a master’s degree in social work (MSW) from USC, Jennifer became a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and spent her early career counseling severely emotionally disturbed adolescents. The challenging nature of her work served to develop strategies that enabled Jennifer to understand the processes essential to overcoming obstacles for any child or teen. As the mother of three children, Jennifer became acutely aware of the reciprocal role that confidence plays in education and how overcoming educational challenges builds the confidence that ultimately results in academic success.
Jennifer’s revolutionary approach to educating students is only part of what makes Synergy Academics unique. Syn-
After eight years developing and operating her previous ac-
ergy Academics distinguish itself by allowing students to
ademic tutoring center, Jennifer drew upon experience to
select from any number of exceptional tutors to find the
create a dynamic new venture in academic services that
per fect combination of personality, knowledge, avail-
is both evolutionary and revolutionary. The result is Synergy
ability, price, and even location. They also offer college
Academics, which brings unprecedented access and ev-
counseling to help students and parents navigate the col-
er-expanding service options to the students it serves in a
lege admission process.
productive, nurturing environment. Synergy Academics is a comprehensive learning center serving students at every educational level. From elementary school through college, “Synergy Students” benefit from knowledgeable and compassionate tutors who truly care about their happiness and success. The objective is to build confi-
Jennifer personally gets to know each of her students and her greatest joy is seeing them thrive academically and gain confidence in their abilities. Jennifer resides in the West San Fernando Valley with her husband, three kids, and a “menagerie” of pets and horses. She loves coming to work each day to be with her “other” kids at the center. n
dence in students by developing their natural strengths, turning challenges into triumph. Synergy Academics determines the unique ways each student learns and matches each person with a tutor who truly understands his or her learning process. Combining nurturing tutors with a positive and focused environment, Synergy Academics also provides SAT/ACT prep, college counseling and financial aid assistance.
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6700 Fallbrook Ave., #101 West Hills 818.888.8665 synergyacademics.com
People to Watch Maria V. Primushko ESTATE PLANNING ATTORNEY
MVP LAW GROUP, A PC
Since 7th grade, Maria knew she was destined to become an attorney because of her conviction to protect people. As founder of MVP Law Group in Encino, Maria focuses on assisting families with estate planning, legacy preservation, personal injury, and bankruptcy protection. Maria began her legal career at the district attorney’s office in St. Petersburg, Russia, after graduating from St. Petersburg State University with a bachelor’s degree in Jurisprudence. She moved to the U.S. shortly thereafter and obtained her Juris Doctor’s law degree from the University of West Los Angeles. Despite having to navigate the complexities of living in a new country while caring for a newborn baby, Maria passed the California Bar Exam, one of the most challenging in America, on her first attempt. Maria went on to work at
and a respected member of the American Academy of
CT Corporation in Los Angeles, where she learned the fun-
Estate Planning Attorneys, Maria believes that procrastina-
damentals of business-entity formation, management, and
tion stems from both ignorance and avoidance to address a
procedures. After obtaining her license, Maria worked at the
seemingly uncomfortable and overwhelming issue. Hence,
Los Angeles City Attorney’s office and volunteered at public
Maria’s mantra is “learn, learn, and learn some more.” Her
counsel before establishing her legal practice.
personal quest is to educate people about the negative impacts of not having an estate plan or renewing an outdated
Maria creates customized estate plans, trusts, and wills for
will or trust, often presenting real-life examples to emphasize
her clients, many from Calabasas and the Valley, and helps
her message.
families manage their affairs without interference from government or other external entities.
As a devoted wife and proud mother of three, Maria celebrates her life by spending quality time with her family and
Nevertheless, the stereotypical ‘attorney temperament’
riding horses in her spare time. When asked what she does
does not define Maria. Instead, she has an unapologetic
for a living, her typical response is that she provides peace
fervor for safeguarding the most vulnerable members of our
of mind.
community, particularly the elderly, children, and adults with special needs, who are often susceptible to neglect and financial abuse. Maria openly laments the impassive and reactive attitude that society has towards estate planning and legacy preservation. As a seasoned speaker on this discipline of law
17337 VENTURA BLVD., #200 ENCINO 818.788.7881 MVPLAWGROUPLA.COM Calabasas Style 91
People to Watch Howard Grobstein Co-Founder
Grobstein Teeple, LLP
Howard Grobstein started his Woodland Hills public accounting and consulting firm, Grobstein Teeple, LLP, six and a half years ago. As cofounding partner, he oversees staff members that offer litigation and insolvency consulting, fiduciary services, bookkeeping, back-office support, a fractional CFO, valuation, cybersecurity, assurance, and taxation. While smaller in size than many of his competitors, Grobstein Teeple remains lean, nimble, and dependable. They pride themselves on building meaningful relationships with both their clients and community. At age 29, Grobstein became a partner at his first firm. When one of the country’s 10 largest accounting firms purchased the company, they appointed Grobstein to lead the national forensic accounting department. Preferring to work at a smaller
Future plans include expanding various practice areas, in-
enterprise where his entrepreneurial spirit could shine, he cre-
cluding fractional CFO and controller, continuing to build
ated his own company with seven of his coworkers. Six and a
the cybersecurity practice, and growing the business man-
half years later, Grobstein Teeple has expanded into a 50-per-
agement department for high net-worth and entertainment
son firm with approximately $11 million in revenue from four
clients. They will also continue to work with a variety of local
offices in Los Angeles, Orange County, Riverside County, and
nonprofit organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and
Washington, D.C.
Heart of Los Angeles Youth (HOLA), which provides athletic, art, and academic programs to underprivileged youth.
Grobstein notes, “Our focus is not only on our clients but our
Offering cybersecurity, risk management, and accounting
staff as well. We encourage watercooler talk, collaboration
services to these groups and others gives Grobstein and
among our team members, and socializing. We believe creat-
his company a chance to show their appreciation for their
ing a positive working environment will lead to an exceptional
community in concrete ways.
team and better-served clients. While this is contrary to most accounting firm environments, we think happy individuals pro-
Grobstein takes the motto “go big or go home” to heart as
duce better work.”
he continues to expand his practice and give back to the community.
The entire Grobstein Teeple team focuses tirelessly on helping clients. They also choose service providers who take pride in their work and genuinely care about their products and reputations. While many providers focus primarily on the bottom line, Grobstein believes putting team members and client needs first is what leads to success and profitability.
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6300 Canoga AvE., #1500 Woodland Hills 818.532.1020 gtllp.com
People to Watch Alexandra C. Cuilty Director of Spa and Wellness
Spa Relais at Westlake Village Inn
Alexandra Cuilty is thrilled to be a part of The Westlake Village Inn’s latest addition, Spa Relais. As Director of Spa and Wellness, she is responsible for overseeing the development of the 13,000-square-foot European spa. Spa Relais will be complete with 13 custom body treatment and facial rooms, two secluded VIP couples’ suites with luxurious soaking tubs and fireplaces, a Vichy hydrotherapy treatment room, Himalayan salt saunas, steam rooms, a state-of-the-art gym, and a retail boutique. The spa will also feature an exclusive Snow Bliss experience—a European version of cryotherapy where guests are gently showered with snow to strengthen the immune system, improve mental acuity, reduce inflammation, and improve sleep. In addition to cryotherapy and hydrotherapy, guests will experience benefits from thalassotherapy, halotherapy,
At Spa Relais, Alex looks forward to using her skills to organ-
infrared light therapy, and aromatherapy.
ize wellness and corporate retreats that will teach guests how to “find and embrace their personal joy.” “We are all so
Spa Relais will also offer memberships and partner with lo-
busy working, raising kids, taking care of an aging genera-
cal healthcare professionals, fitness experts, life-balance
tion, that we fail to stop and recognize the joy in our lives,”
coaches, and dieticians to offer unique services for guests.
says Alex. “I want Spa Relais to be that source of joy.” Their
The property expansion includes 14 new luxury-appointed
team of professionals will nurture guests, leaving them re-
spa hotel suites adjacent to the spa with access to an adult
laxed, restored, and revived.
only pool and gym. Alex has extensive experience in high-end hospitality and exceptional guest service having worked as General Manager at Sherwood Country Club in Thousand Oaks for over 20 years. During her tenure, she oversaw annual charity and nationally televised golf and tennis tournaments, member-
31943 Agoura Rd. Westlake Village 818.889.0230 westlakevillageinn.com
ships, construction, design and branding of the Sherwood Lake Club. Subsequently, Alex worked at California Health and Longevity Institute at The Four Seasons Westlake as Managing Director. She was responsible for the institute’s rebranding and development of corporate retreats, spa and fitness memberships.
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People to Watch Carrie L. Hughes
director of development and public relations
Casa Pacifica Centers for Children and Families
An immense passion for children first drew Carrie Hughes to Casa Pacifica Centers for Children and Families 20 years ago. She felt completely aligned with its mission to serve the most vulnerable children and youth in our community. After two decades, this dedicated director of development and public relations continues to promote the agency’s power ful work with foster and at-risk youth. Hughes currently oversees all of Casa Pacifica’s fundraising efforts, from donor and community relations to public relations and marketing. The ability to forge relationships with staff, donors, youth, and volunteers is key to her success. She recounts one of her most meaningful relationships. “I mentored two youth who Casa Pacifica cared for, a brother and sister who both had cystic fibrosis. From the
years, helping it achieve its annual fundraising goal each
moment I met them, they tugged at my heart in a way I’d
year I have been here. In my 20-year tenure with Casa
never experienced before. I loved them both as my own.”
Pacifica, over $60 million has been raised by the develop-
While their lives ended way too soon, they taught her, and
ment team, an amazing feat which has benefited the lives
hopefully others, to “always take a chance and be there
of well over 40,000 youth and their families.”
for these youth. They need so much, but you receive so much more in return. It is priceless.”
Named 2018 “Fundraising Professional of the Year” by the Association of Fundraising Professionals – Santa Barbara/
Another highlight of her career at Casa Pacifica is grow-
Ventura Counties Chapter, Hughes also served on the
ing the Angels Wine, Food & Brew Festival from a small
board of the Association of Fundraising Professionals for
event at the Pierpont Inn to an incredible community
Santa Barbara/Ventura Counties Chapter for 10 years and
affair with 4,500 guests, 150 vendors, and an all-day
as president in 2015. She is a member of the Camarillo
lineup of entertainment. All the proceeds support their
Rotary Club, and also named Top 50 Women in Business
programs and services, helping to fill the immense annu-
in 2018.
al gap between revenue and actual costs. Hughes was also instrumental in the planning and execution of Casa Pacifica’s $16.6 million “Building New Foundations of Hope” capital campaign, completed in 2018. This enabled them to expand programs and serve more youth and families. Hughes adds, “I am also proud to have been a part of growing our development department over the
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1722 S. Lewis Rd. Camarillo 805.366.4011 casapacifica.org
People to Watch Heywood G. Friedman, Esq. Founder and Managing Partner
Law Firm of Friedman + Bartoumian
Now in his fourth decade of practice, attorney Heywood G. Friedman, Esq., understands that success in the legal field requires a combination of preparation, perspiration, and inspiration. Heywood and his law partner, Haik K. Bartoumian, Esq., and the dedicated staff at the Law Firm of Friedman + Bartoumian strive to achieve justice for their clients while being mindful of the significant financial and psychological costs that can come from a legal dispute. The firm’s clients benefit from the efficient and expedited manner in which the firm resolves cases that have the earmarks of expensive, protracted litigation. Enjoying a reputation of consistently exceeding client expectations, Friedman + Bartoumian provides litigation, regulatory, and transactional representation to many Fortune “Top 100” businesses. The firm is regarded as both thought and action
A particular source of pride and service is Friedman + Bar-
leaders in the areas of workers compensation defense, insur-
toumian’s mentor program which provides practical legal
ance law, employment law, and complex business litigation.
training to law school students who clerk with the firm. Over the past 15 years, nearly all of the many students who have
Friedman + Bartoumian offers 15 attorneys operating through-
clerked for the firm successfully passed the Bar examination on
out California from offices in Agoura Hills, Orange County,
their first attempt! The firm seeks to instill law students with not
Oakland, and Sacramento. To provide its clients with a “one
only the skills needed to practice law in an ethical and exem-
law firm” option, the firm will open Inland Empire and Central
plary manner, but also with the sense that the practice of law
Valley offices in 2020.
is a noble profession, not merely a vocation.
Heywood and the team at Friedman + Bartoumian take se-
For the best legal defense, please consider Heywood G. Fried-
riously their obligation to make positive contributions to the
man, Esq., and the Law Firm of Friedman + Bartoumian.
communities in which they work. Heywood personally “pays it forward” serving as a board member of the Conejo Valley-based NPO “Fit 4 the Cause,” which provides fitness and nutrition programs to underserved communities. He also serves as a volunteer legal advisor to the National Children’s Hospital in Denver, Colorado, a world leader in respiratory and immunological research and treatment. The firm has sponsored countless academic, athletic, and arts programs at Southern and
30401 Agoura Rd., #200 Agoura Hills 818.707.1488 friedmanlawoffices.com
Northern California schools and has provided “pro bono” legal services to numerous nonprofits, churches, and synagogues.
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People to Watch Michael Christie Music Director
New West Symphony
New West Symphony has recently appointed a new music director to take its creative helm, GRAMMY® Award-winner Michael Christie. Maestro Christie is a thoughtfully innovative conductor, equally at home in the symphonic and opera worlds, who is focused on making the audience experience at his performances entertaining, enlightening, and enriching. Of his first performance with New West Symphony as the newly appointed music director, the Los Angeles Times praised Christie for his “original interpretation of Rimsky-Korsakov’s potboiler Scheherazade, supplying far and away the most spectacular playing from what should no longer be considered a regional symphony…bringing out Rimsky’s lurid textures as though newly colorized.” New West Symphony has four performances remaining in New West Symphony is celebrating its 25th anniversary,
its season that runs through May 2020. In January, they cel-
and its tenured orchestra members have appeared as so-
ebrate Beethoven’s 250th birthday with the famed Eroica
loists with the finest orchestras. They are GRAMMY-nominat-
Trio. A Duet of Remembrance follows next with two concerts
ed artists themselves and can be heard on almost any film
celebrating the 75th anniversary of the liberation of con-
soundtrack you can imagine, from Jurassic Park and Star
centration camps. “Dreams” includes Brundibar, a hopeful
Wars to La La Land. New West Symphony has also provid-
children’s opera performed in the Theriesenstadt camp. “Vi-
ed free music education programs, with its Laby Harmony
olins of Hope” features string instruments rescued and re-
Project, free Symphonic Adventures student concerts, and
stored from the Holocaust and pianist Olga Kern performing
Music Van, a petting zoo of musical instruments.
Rachmaninoff. The season closes with violin superstar Sarah Chang performing the Brahms Violin Concerto, her second
Christie won a 2019 Grammy Award (Best Opera Recording)
time with New West Symphony.
for the world premiere recording of Mason Bates’ The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs with The Santa Fe Opera (PENTATONE). Christie’s conducting career, spanning more than 20 years, has included serving as music director of the Phoenix Symphony and Brooklyn Philharmonic and as chief conductor of the Queensland Orchestra in Australia. Christie also served as music director of the Colorado Music Festival from 2000 to 2013. Christie holds a bachelor’s degree in trumpet from the Oberlin College Conservatory of Music. He lives in Minneapolis with his wife, Alexis, a physician, and their two children.
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Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd., #D Thousand Oaks 805.497.5800 newwestsymphony.org
People to Watch Ashley Rosenblum Founder and CEO
A.Marie, INC.
Ash l ey Mari e R ose n b l um i s t h e f oun d e r, de s ig n e r, a nd CEO o f A. MA R I E, I N C ., t h e p a re n t c o mp a n y o f high-fashi o n j ewe l r y b r a n d s A .Ma r i e J e w e l r y a n d B lin g B ox by AMJ . Ash l e y b e g a n m a k i n g j e w e l r y a t t h e a g e of 8 and di sco vere d h e r l ov e f or t h e f a sh i o n in du s t r y earl y o n . Thi s exc i t e m e n t i n sp i re d h e r b r a n d f o r wo me n who cho o se to s e t a n i n t e n t i on t o b ot h l ook a n d f e e l the i r best. A. Mar i e J e w e l r y h a s g row n ov e r t h e pa s t decade, beco m i n g a t r ust e d b r a n d f or t h o u s a n ds o f clients wo rl dwi de . A.M AR IE, INC. , A sh l e y’ s l i f e st yl e b r a n d , e n c o u r a g e s a nd teach es o the r f e m a l e e n t re p re n e ur s t o be t h e ir own bo ss thro ugh h e r a m b a ssa d or p rogr a m , c o mmu n ity , an d o nl i n e cour se s. A sh l e y p l a n s t o e xp a nd h e r o wn
T h e n e w B lin g B o x by A M J je we lr y s u bs cript ion box
brand o n l i n e to a w i d e r a ud i e n c e of w om e n lo o kin g
( v a lu e d o v e r $ 2 0 0 ) is de liv e re d s t r a ig h t to your door
for i n spi rati o n wi t h i n t h e i r c a re e r s a n d i n e v e r y da y lif e .
e v e r y o t h e r mo n t h f o r $ 5 9 . 9 9 . T h is s u bs c r ip t ion service
“ Soci al medi a ha s b e c om e suc h a st ron g s o u rc e f o r
wa s de v e lo pe d wit h a f f o rda bilit y , q u a lit y , st yle, and
m e an d my brand s w h e n i t c om e s t o c om m u n ic a t in g
v e r s a t ilit y in min d.
with my fo l l o wers, i n c l ud i n g c ust om e r s a n d my o v e r a ll co mmun i ty, ” says A sh l e y. “ I t i s e xt re m e l y i n s pir in g t o
A do g mo m t o f iv e re s c u e s o f h e r o wn , A s hley’s love f or
bri n g w o men to g e t h e r t h rough m y ow n b r an ds t h a t I
a n ima ls is e v ide n t . S h e pro u dly s e r v e s o n the board of
a m so passi o n ate a b out .”
dire c t o r s f o r M O 4 PAW S , a n o n p ro f it a n imal rescue and a do p t io n o r g a n iz a t io n de dic a t e d t o s a ving t he lives
Ash l ey’s o ri gi n al m i ssi on – t o c re a t e j e w e l r y m a de wit h
o f do g s a n d c a t s . S h e in c o r po r a t e d t h e A M J brand
intenti o n and w or n w i t h i n t e n t i on – h a s n ow c a r r ie d o n
wit h M O 4 PAW S by c re a t in g a limit e d- e dit i on neck lace
thro ugh al l her br a n d s. Sh e f i r m l y b e l i e v e s t h a t wh e n
t o r a is e f u n ds f o r a n d p ro mo t e t h e o r g a n iz ation. This is
we l o o k go o d, w e f e e l good . A n d w h e n w e f e e l g o o d,
o n ly t h e b e g in n in g f o r A s h le y a s s h e p la n s to grow her
we do better fo r ot h e r s a n d f or t h e w or l d . P eo p le wit h
br a n ds , e x p a n din g c h a n n e ls t o re a c h t he consumer
go al s and passi o n a n d w h o st r i v e t o l i v e t h e ir be s t lif e
o n a la r g e r s c a le .
we ar h er desi gns. P osi t i v e , t h oug h t f ul e n e r gy g o e s in t o the desi gni n g an d m a k i n g of e a c h p i e c e . A M J o f f e r s a wide vari ety – from p e a r l p i e c e s t o d a i n t y c h a in s . P lu s , she has a fi ne-j ew e l r y l i n e . T h e re i s som e t h i n g a v a ila ble fo r everyo ne a t a n y p r i c e p oi n t .
Calabasas 833.AMJ.BABE amariejewelry.com Calabasas Style 97
People to Watch Dan Stepenosky, Ed.D. SUPERINTENDeNT of schools
Las Virgenes Unified School District
Dan developed his love of learning and teaching from his mother who was an elementary school art teacher. He has fond memories of being in her art class and watching as she made art come alive and inspired his fellow classmates. Dan is a Pennsylvania native from Bucks County, just north of Philadelphia. Dan attended Villanova University on a Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps scholarship and graduated in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science degree in physics. After graduation, he entered the U.S. Navy and served 4 and a half years onboard the U.S.S. Waddell and U.S.S. Chancellorsville. While in the Navy, he served in the Persian Gulf and received two Navy Achievement Medals, the Southeast Asia Service Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, and the Kuwait Liberation Medal. Some of the award-winning, innovative programs Las VirDan received his teaching credential from the University of
genes offers are International Baccalaureate, Advanced
San Diego in 1995, his administrative credential and mas-
Placement Capstone Diploma, a Waldorf-inspired K through
ter’s in Educational Leadership from CSUN in 1999, and his
8 school, a K through 5 Dual Immersion school, STEAM pro-
doctorate from UCLA in 2003. He wrote his doctoral disser-
grams, GATE (Gifted and Talented Education), arts integra-
tation on “Preventing School Shootings” and conducted
tion, district-wide counseling support for Pre-K through 12,
his research at Columbine High School. Dan joined the Las
and Career Technical Education pathways such as Sports
Virgenes Unified School District in 2006 as Assistant Superin-
Medicine, Robotics, and their Academy of Media and En-
tendent of Personnel and was appointed Superintendent in
tertainment. The excellence of Las Virgenes is a result of
2012. In 2016 he was named Superintendent of the Year by
focused and supportive leadership, dedicated and pas-
the Association of California School Administrators.
sionate staff, amazing and hardworking students, unparalleled parent support, and strong community connections. To
“It is an honor to serve as superintendent and work with such
learn more about Las Virgenes, visit their website: lvusd.org.
passionate and dedicated staff whose number one priority is the success and well-being of our students. Working to support our students’ growth and success in the classroom and in the community is an absolute honor and joy. Our Board of Education, a wonderful group of dedicated community leaders, set the vision and direction for the District. Our focus areas this year have been student achievement, fiscal responsibility, and collaborative efforts.”
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4111 Las Virgenes Rd. Calabasas 818.880.4000 lvusd.org
People to Watch Bridget Karl President and CEO
calabasas chamber of commerce
When Bridget Karl was named the new president and CEO of the Calabasas Chamber of Commerce in March of this year, her “homecoming” was welcomed and cheered by all. It is the third time this accomplished woman has held an executive position at the Calabasas Chamber – first as the membership director, when she consistently grew membership from 2007 through 2010, and second as president and CEO from 2012 through 2016, when she created additional events and was recognized three years in a row starting in 2013 for Chamber excellence by the Los Angeles Business Journal. In 2014, she was honored by the journal with a “Women Making a Difference Award.” Bridget led one of the most successful host towns for the Special Olympics World Games in 2015. She rallied the business community, mayor, city council, government district offices, civic leaders, and Mountains
knowledge of marketing with her passion for raising funds
Recreation Conservatory. With the support of volunteers, the
and awareness for nonprofit organizations, including The
chamber raised over $85,000 and additional in-kind dona-
Avon Walk, Cancer Support Community, and Maria’s Birth-
tions to fund accommodations, meals, and activities for 181
day Wishes for the Homeless. She merged her passion and
Special Olympics athletes and coaches from Great Britain
compassion for individuals with cancer and their fami-
for several days before the start of the games in Los Angeles.
lies when she served as president and CEO of the Cancer Support Community/Valley/Ventura/Santa Barbara for two
Bridget’s primary objective for the Calabasas Chamber is
years before returning to the Calabasas Chamber of Com-
to create an environment in which business and community
merce this year.
prosper. Her role is closely aligned with the city’s economic development programs, serving as a creative force and
Bridget’s goal is for the chamber of commerce is to continue
leader for the Calabasas business community. She provides
investing time and money in community development pro-
strategic direction and vision for the chamber’s events, in-
grams, working to improve the economic, civic, and cultural
cluding the annual Calabasas Pumpkin Festival. Bridget en-
wellbeing of the area. n
sures that each chamber member grows its business through a wide variety of networking and community events. Bridget first learned the importance of multitasking when raising triplets while working as the marketing director for Research America, Inc. In this role, she worked with several national retail chains, including Sears, Kohl’s, Petco, and
23945 Calabasas Rd., #216 Calabasas 818.222.5680 CalabasasChamber.com
TJ Maxx. Upon moving to California, Bridget parlayed her
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club life Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the New Calabash Room
The Calabasas Chamber of Commerce commemorated the grand opening of the new Calabash Room with a ribbon cutting and toy drive. The Calabash room adds 3,400 square feet of event space, making it the ideal venue for hosting private parties and receptions and expanding the dining capacity for regular club events.
Turkey Busters Workout Over Thanksgiving Weekend!
The Athletic Center at the Club was filled with members working off the extra calories consumed over Thanksgiving weekend. The group classes, personal training, and state-of-the art cardio machines make it easy and fun for members to stay in shape.
For information, please visit calabasasgolf.com General Information: 818.222.8111 | info@calabasasgolf.com
At Calabasas Country Club 2019 Men's Member-Guest Tournament
The Annual Men’s Member Guest Tournament took place on Saturday, November 16. The annual tournament had a long waitlist since it’s one of the Club’s most popular events. Members can invite friends and co-workers to experience the challenging golf course and discover the wonderful amenities at the Club!
Santa Claus Sighting at Calabasas Country Club
The holidays fill everyone with joy – especially when you get to share your secret gift wishes with Santa himself. Kids and parents love the holiday tradition of the Club’s annual Santa Brunch where Santa heard every child’s Christmas wish.
Planning your private or corporate event? Contact Vanessa, food and beverage manager, or Heather, event manager: 818.444.5545 Vanessa@calabasasgolf.com Heather@calabasasgolf.com
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Décor CALABASAS ST YLE ’ S FAVO R ITE ELEM ENTS FACTOR SURFACES Factor Surfaces has always known that the finishing touches make the space. Since 1998, their talented and experienced designers have been laying the foundation for surfaces that feel rich in texture, tone, and distinctive finish. They now specialize in house 2020 design creating full 3D renderings for kitchens and bathrooms. 22419 Ventura Blvd. Woodland Hills 818.348.0401 factorsurfaces.com
IDN FLOORING Discover a huge assortment of top-notch, high-end, durable value flooring products, including hardwood, laminate, carpet, and tile with service and professional installation that will exceed your expectations. IDN also cares about their customers’ health – so most products are “green” and eco-friendly. 7947 Canoga Ave. Cangoa Park 818.888.8051 idnflooring.net
PACIFIC PATIO Pacific Patio Furniture offers a wide variety of outdoor fire pits, fire tables, and patio heaters. With several different manufacturers to choose from, they are sure to be able to find the fire feature that works for your size and style. 28505 Canwood St. Agoura Hills 818.949.6120 pacpatio.com
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Calabasas Style has perused the local area to locate some of our favorite home dÊcor elements, and we are excited to share them with our readers! GLOBAL SOURCE LIGHTING Featuring the world’s finest lighting and accessories, they are proud to bring the beauty of their lighting collections to your home. From crystal fixtures and chandeliers to exterior lighting and fans, Global Source Lighting caters to your needs and specific design vision. 28501 Canwood St. Agoura Hills 818.707.6000 globalsourcelighting.com
NW RUGS & FURNITURE A mix of mid-century modern and Hollywood glam, The Cassidy Collection makes a statement. The brushed gold design and lucite hardware against a lacquered white finish are an interior design dream. Add this piece to any room to crank up the glamour. 28610 Canwood St. Agoura Hills 818.706.3333 nwrugs.com
PTS FURNITURE This BDI Elements media console has a unique laser-cut design on the door panels backed with a perforated medal to provide an open appearance. Find this console and more of the finest-quality furniture at PTS Furniture. 250 Conejo Ridge Ave. Thousand Oaks 805.496.4804 ptsfurniture.com
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WESTFIELD HOLIDAY MARKET Westfield Topanga, home to the San Fernando Valley’s most unique collection of trendsetting designer boutiques and elegant luxury brands, embodied the spirit of the holidays with their debut of “The Market at Westfield Topanga.” Adorned with quaint cobblestoned streets, pine trees, and twinkling, white lit garland throughout, The Market
combined
specially
crafted
holiday moments, the best of holiday shopping, engaging brand pop-ups, and festive entertainment all within one magical village. Welcomed by grand entry gates signaling the arrival to Santa’s Cabin and curated pop-up shops, guests were transported into a setting reminiscent of a majestic town square replete with iconic holiday carolers and shopkeepers to assist with their gift-shopping needs. The Market, open from November 25 to January 5, showcased curated shopping galleries, live music, seasonal delights, and festive experiences for visitors of all ages.
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Home Design in a New Decade
By Maya Williams
a transparent door setting that allows the
hanced by special massage jets producing
fridge to keep its cool. With two knocks,
a therapeutic flow of warm air bubbles en-
Ten years ago, the idea of securing your
you can peek inside the fridge without
veloping the entire body.
home from your phone or having your re-
opening the door. It also makes high-end,
frigerator self-order ingredients for your
craft ice cubes to give your drinks an ex-
family dinner seemed unthinkable. But de-
tra bit of class to take your entertaining to
sign, technology, and healthy home con-
the next level.
cepts are roaring ahead at a rapid pace
Smart home technology will go beyond kitchens and baths and into every room in the home. With modern technology fully incorporated into our homes, the AI will be able to detect exactly where we are in the home and accommodate our needs to that space by controlling lights, temperature, entertainment and TV systems, and more. Soon, today’s TV will be a modern voice-activated projector system. And it doesn’t stop there. AI will also be assimilated into home security with
and the 2020s will see significant changes
We already have robotic vacuums and
facial recognition, moni-
to the home.
lawn mowers, but more digital-assistance
toring systems, and smart
products are on the way to help with mul-
locks. AI can assist with
TECHNOLOGY
titasking. LG invented Cloi, a robot that
a helping hand to our
Smart home technology will go beyond
actively engages with people, providing
growing elder population
kitchens and baths and into every room
information and services such as delivery,
with giving them reminders
in the home. Hate it when you turn on the
shopping, cleaning, organizing, and pick-
about medications and turning items off. In
water and it’s freezing cold? Delta brand
ing out the perfect wardrobe! In the near
cases of crisis, emergency services can be
faucets have created VoiceIQ Technolo-
future, we will also have an artificial intelli-
notified automatically.
gy that can dis-
gence kitchen concierge that will turn food
pense the exact
cookers on, let you know when to change
SUSTAINED LIVING AND GREEN DESIGN
amount of water
your water filter, and let you know that you
Environmental concerns and the need for
you need at the
have food expiring.
sustainability has led to consumer demand
exact temperature
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you
for energy and water-efficient devices.
want
For one of my clients, I’m decking out the
There will be growing options of recycled
it. Dacor Luxury
bathrooms with smart-tech items such as
materials, not just in stone and tile but also
Brand Applianc-
Jacuzzi’s Multi-Sensory Arga Swirltub, which
in building products. And as new innova-
es sells a line
stores and integrates Epsom salt into the
tions and sustainable buildings continue
of refrigerators
water along with illume-therapy lighting
to be designed and constructed with re-
that
the
and a neck-massaging waterfall spout,
cycled materials that surpass the quality
owners to peer
all controlled by a glass-touch remote
of wood, steel, brick, and mortar, there will
in from their cell
control. But I’m also excited to install To-
also be advances in construction design to
phone, and LG’s
to’s zero-gravity tub that allows bathers a
include the use of natural sunlight, further
line of InstaView
weightless, zero-gravity floating experience
offsetting home-energy costs.
refrigerators has
for a meditative moment of relaxation, en-
allow
Architects anticipate a significant importance in lighting-technology systems over the next five to 10 years. These changes not only contribute to the increased energy efficiency of buildings, but also enhance the lives of people. KB Home Projekt is showcasing the future smart homes that will not only turn on the lights for you but will link them to your personalized circadian rhythms. walls that move. A simple voice command While cost-saving solar has been the recent
will reconfigure a room into a completely
trend, architecture incorporating more nat-
different setup. Moveable walls will offer
ural light is increasingly being adopted be-
a multitude of options throughout a single
cause natural sunlight has been proven to
day. Flexible space can become a bed-
make humans happier and healthier – and
room, office, or entertaining area.
of course, more productive. Buildings and homes will be built with composite materials and new glass and glazing technologies that are automated to the time of day and year to maximize the amount of sunlight entering a space.
One of my absolute favorite products is one you barely see. Delos and their Darwin Home Wellness Intelligence Network monitors the air in your home and removes toxins, expels odors, and reduces allergens. It also passively tests air quality in real-time and automatically turns on the heating and cooling system to provide you with fresh air exactly when you need it. As humans live longer and the population of 65+-year-old adults that feel 45 grows, being health conscious is easier than ever with advancing wearable devices from Apple, Embr, and Fitbit that track much more than your steps. They have their way into our home scales, fridges, and mirrors!
GENERAL TRENDS Lifestyles have become more informal and
HEALTHY LIVING Environmental health issues will also be a focus in residential environments in the decades to come. A recent national consumer survey found that a quarter of homeowners were at least suspicious that their home may be causing health problems, while an additional 20% were unsure whether to be concerned or not. Since renters have less ability to control their residential environment, they express even higher levels of concern. Indoor air quality tops the list of healthy home concerns, but water quality and potentially harmful materials or chemicals in the home also are commonly mentioned. Greater consumer awareness and growing mistrust of government and industry are likely to push healthy home issues to even greater levels of awareness.
Social media has also added a new chapter on interior design. It has brought interior designers and their designs to households in a new, very accessible way. It has taught consumers with no previous exposure to design to understand and value design. It has taught them to rethink their lifestyle while considering a range of styles inconceivable before. This has allowed them to be comfortable enough to approach styles that they previously couldn’t imagine in practice. In the ‘20s classic blue is cool, huge floral wallpaper is in demand, green kitchens are to die for, and full-sized furniture and pastels from the ‘80s are back on trend. The roar is coming back to the ‘20s, and I hope you’re as excited as I am for this decade’s design innovations.
homes are reflecting this. Formal living rooms and dining rooms are disappearing and being replaced by great rooms, dens, and open-space layouts. With this movement to informality, outdoor living will be even more of a focus in the ‘20s. While initially decks,
MAYA WILLIAMS DESIGN 818.854.6031 maya@mayawilliamsdesign.com FB: MayaWilliamsDesign IG: mayawilliamsdesign
patios, and outdoor grills were the focus, this trend has expanded to outdoor kitchens and even fully furnished outdoor rooms. Architects are designing larger windows from floors to ceilings and very minimalist interiors. Simplicity is everything. It will be interesting to see if this continues or if we’ll once again thrive for maximalist design. In the coming years, your wish is the room’s command! Can’t decide whether a room should be a den, an office, or for guests? You’re in luck. Rooms will be designed with
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5TH ANNUAL CANCER SCHMANCER HEALTH SUMMIT
____________________________________ ____________________________________ Photography by Melissa Westervelt Cancer Schmancer presented its 5th annual Master Class Health Summit, hosted by Fran Drescher, on November 2 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Los Angeles. The mind-expanding, life-changing day gave attendees tools to prevent, reduce, and reverse disease with a multitude of interesting, informative panels and Q&A opportunities on topics including Eastern and Western medicine, GMOs, medical cannabis, oral health, functional medicine, detoxing your home, and neurodegenerative diseases. Speakers included Sharon Osbourne, Dr. Zach Bush, Dr. H. Jae Chun, Dr. Uma Dhanabalan, Dr. Robert Zembroski, Dr. Tony Jimenez, and Dr. Jonathan Otto, among many others. Funds raised support their Youth Education “Be the Change� Program that teaches young teens and their families how to avoid toxins in their daily lives to make healthy choices regularly and supports their Master Class Health Summits globally. To find out more, visit cancerschmancer.org.
For more photos of our events, please visit calabasasstyle.com.
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Move It or
Lose It
By Lori Berezin Every year, we have another chance to promise ourselves to cre-
If you prefer the glorious outdoors, why not rent a bike at the
ate an even healthier life. This year, let “move it or lose it” be-
beach, rollerblade, or simply take a brisk walk through your neigh-
come your mantra. Let the words echo through your mind as you
borhood or nearby park? Head to the local farmers market to
choose to walk up the stairs instead of ride an elevator or park just
combine walking with heart-healthy foods. Walk your dog. Go
a little further from your favorite stores.
dancing with your partner or play tennis with a friend. These are all great ways to socialize, too.
Physical activity helps in so many ways. Your heart rate increases during cardio exercise, pumping more • Makes you feel and look better inside and out
oxygen and other nutrients to your muscles. Aim for at least 30
• Helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol
minutes of moderate exercise three to five days a week to see a
• Lowers your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and breast cancer
real change. Listen to your heart. If you feel out of breath, slow
• Burns calories to help you maintain or lose weight
down. Work into it gradually.
• Eases stress and lightens your mood • Strengthens your muscles, bones, and immune system
Give yourself the gift of health for the New Year. Move it or lose it. Make 2020 the most physically active year of your adult life. n
Whether you decide to join a gym or simply go more often, you’ll feel so much better after an aerobics class or other workout.
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Is Your
CHI Blocked? By Lori Berezin According to ancient healers in China, India, Japan, and else-
the chakras, seven invisible spots located along the center of the
where and modern science, we all possess channels of ener-
body. Breathing through different yoga positions can also help
gy, or chi, that flow like rivers throughout our bodies. When this
unlock trapped energy that may be stuck in one of these chakras.
vital life force becomes blocked, we grow more susceptible to disease. If you suffer from chronic lethargy, low libido, or
Meditation, Mindfulness, and More
depression, it may be time to check your chi after ruling out
Remember how revitalized you felt during and after that walk
other possibilities.
through the woods or beside the sea? Quiet the mind, whether
How to Balance Your Chi One of the best ways to unblock your chi is through acupressure and acupuncture, which works with the meridians in your
during meditation or hiking in nature, and breathe in fresh air to restore out-of-balance chi. It also helps to eat more organic, energy-boosting foods like fruits, veggies, and lean protein.
body. It is thought that pressing or needling any of the more
Tune Into Your Unlimited Energy Source
than 2000 acupressure/acupuncture points helps chi circulate.
Chi is thought to connect every organ and bodily system. It affects our physical, spiritual, and psychological well-being.
Another powerful tool is Reiki, developed in 1922 by Japanese
Smile with your entire body and let it flow. Free your chi to in-
Buddhist Mikao Usui. Combining Rei, meaning divine, and Ki, or
crease your sense of calm, creativity, and oneness with the
energy, Reiki practitioners promote the flow of energy through
world around you. n
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Dr. Jonine Nazar-Biesman Psy.D, ABPdN Board Certified Neuropsychologist
At
we
spite the stress or hardships, our
The New Year is a good time to
wish all the readers of Calabasas
NeuroSense
Psychology,
own giving can bring perspective.
pause, reflect, and take perspec-
Style a very happy and healthy
Focusing outward can bring sea-
tive. It is most important, howev-
New Year. It’s the time of year to
sonal stress relief and joy to others.
er, to find balance in everyday
destress, relax, and unwind after
waking. The holiday season is but
the frenzy of the holidays and to
For parents, the new year is also
a moment on a much lengthier
set new resolutions and intentions.
a prime opportunity to reinforce
continuum
of
connection,
ap-
preciation, gratitude, grit, and attempting which
is
to
overcome
challenging.
that
Leading
by example and continuing to reflect and project the holiday spirit is per haps one of the best life lessons we can impart to our own families. Reflection and perspective…as the expression goes, “Better than most, not as good some.” At the start of this year, we encourage a moment of focusing on the have versus the have not. n With best wishes for the New Year, Dr. Biesman and the Team One way to do this is to keep the
the perspective that we strive to
holiday spirit alive throughout the
teach children during the holiday
year ahead.
season. It is important that our chil-
at NeuroSense
dren focus not solely on what they As a child and family neuropsy-
want, but on the values of giving,
chology practice, we recognize
contribution, kindness, and self-
that the holidays can be trying
lessness. Witnessing anyone who
and painful for a multitude of rea-
is upon hard times does spark my
sons. While we are bombarded by
own thinking about what I can
picture-per fect images of holiday
do to be helpful to others in some
bliss, some families are dealing
fashion. That is the point…care
with sickness, mourning the loss of
about others, look slightly outside
a loved one, or facing loneliness
of our own comfort zones and rou-
from a lack of social support. When
tine, and think of ways in which to
we can see outside ourselves de-
contribute all year round.
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Mental
HEALTH DAYS By Gayle Barnes Everyone needs a mental health day once in a while – a
Lack of energy or wanting to sleep too much
break from everyday stresses and pressure, a day to just en-
Difficulty concentrating
joy life and do what you want or to do nothing at all. Howev-
Insomnia
er, there are people who never get a break because every
Weight loss or gain
day they wake up with “it.” What exactly is it? That’s a good
Thoughts of suicide
question, and it’s different for everyone. Nowadays, we hear
Ongoing headaches or stomach aches
more than ever about anxiety, depression, and other mental-health illnesses. Has it always been such a big issue in
If you have one or two of these symptoms once in a while,
society or is it more prevalent these days? It’s an invisible
that is pretty normal. There is a big difference between just
illness, and you can’t always see that someone is suffering.
feeling down for a day or having some anxious moments
People may be smiling on the outside, but they can be feel-
and experiencing these feelings daily. Sometimes it’s good
ing so much more on the inside. Or they might be feeling
to self-diagnose that something is off and not getting better.
nothing at all. Self-awareness is important, and if you know
Don’t keep it to yourself. Discuss it with family or a friend and
you have issues or suspect someone else does, seek help
seek medical help. It can be terrifying to tell someone for the
from the experts. There is no reason to suffer alone. Mental
first time that you are concerned about yourself or someone
illness does not have the stigma it once did when people
else. But taking this first brave step puts you a little closer to
were less informed.
help and feeling better.
Here are some symptoms to watch for:
If you or someone you know is thinking of suicide, call 911,
Feeling consistently sad or empty
especially if there is an immediate threat. You can also
Feeling hopeless or worthless
reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at
Loss of interest in hobbies or activities
1.800.273.8255. n
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Food Is
Fuel
By Lori Berezin
engines running smoothly. Simply follow a
amount of good fats, such as avocado,
few common-sense guidelines, such as:
nuts, and olive oil, to each meal.
oline into your car or plug it into a faulty
• Eat plenty of veggies and lean protein,
• Exchange sugary treats and processed
electrical socket. So, why feed your body
such as fish, yogurt, poultry, eggs, seeds,
foods with a piece of fruit or heart-smart
anything less than high-octane foods?
and nuts.
homemade treat.
Think of food as fuel that powers your
• Drink eight glasses of water daily to keep
Eat to live rather than live to eat. Choco-
health. Staples, such as apples, berries,
your body temperature steady, assist diges-
late is not a food group, although, a little
and citrus fruits, provide antioxidants for
tion, protect vital organs, and much more.
antioxidant-rich dark chocolate is actually
You’d never put the wrong type of gas-
healthy lungs and longevity. Forgo fad di-
good for you. Exchange that quick sug-
ets and visit your local farmer’s market or
• Replace white bread, which converts
ar-induced bolt for more sustained energy
organic grocer for a cornucopia of ener-
quickly to glucose in your body, with whole
from fatty fish and dark leafy greens. Keep
gy-producing foods.
grains, such as quinoa, brown rice, and
up your strength before and after workouts
oatmeal, to satisfy your hunger longer.
with healthy carbs, such as brown rice,
We need to refuel every day, absorbing
fruit with yogurt, or bananas with almond
the best protein, vitamins, minerals, car-
• Oil your gears to keep your brain sharp
butter. And stay hydrated. Your body will
bohydrates, and healthy fats to keep our
and heart healthy by adding a small
thank you for it. n
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Dr. Jeffrey Glaser:
Dedicated to Improving Each Patient’s Quality of Life 136
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By Lori Berezin Photography by Marvin Steindler
One of his most exciting new treatments is the Vertiflex
Dual-board-certified interventional pain management physician Dr. Jeffrey
stenosis. “In the past, physical therapy, medication
Glaser believes, like fingerprints, that no two patients are alike. At his Glaser Pain
management, epidurals, and major surgery were
Relief Center in Encino, where he’s served patients for nearly two decades, Dr.
the only options to relieve this condition, which
Glaser also thinks treatment plans should be as unique as each individual. “It is
occurs when the spinal canal lacks sufficient space,
important for us to understand what makes our patients tick in order to provide
resulting in painful pinched nerves.” Today, the doctor
the optimal therapy for their particular goals,” he explains.
performs a short 30-minute procedure, implanting a
Superion procedure for symptoms of lumbar spinal
small device smaller than a dime to open up the spinal Those living with chronic pain realize how deeply it affects every area of their
canal and allow more room for the nerves. Patients
lives. Dr. Glaser is able to utilize state-of-the-art interventional pain management
go home the same day that they have this minimally
procedures as an alternative to major surgery. “New FDA-approved treatment
invasive procedure, which is covered by Medicare.
innovations allow us to provide patients with greater relief than ever before,” says Dr. Glaser. “Spine surgery is rarely needed these days and insurance
Dr. Glaser also offers regenerative medicine, such as
companies now recognize patients often do well with these treatments. So, in
platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, to help the body
2020 and beyond, they’ll cover more of them.”
heal naturally using its own cells. He also employs stem cells to repair or regenerate damaged tissues. Both work well for disorders of the shoulders, knees, hips, and spine. A graduate of the Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Dr. Glaser completed his internship and residency at the prestigious UCLA Medical Center. After practicing medicine in Las Vegas, he returned to Southern California. In 2001, Dr. Glaser opened his Encino office to treat patients suffering from spine-mediated pain. He also treats migraines and arthritis joint pain of the knees, shoulders, and hips using the latest state-of-theart procedures. In 2019, Dr. Glaser welcomed Dr. John Zheng into his practice. Dr. Zheng is a board-certified interventional pain management physician that specializes in disorders of the spine as well as sports injuries and pain caused from musculoskeletal disorders. Besides working with sports-related injuries, together Dr. Glaser and Dr. Zheng continue to help patients experiencing pain caused by herniated/bulging discs, spinal stenosis, failed back surgery, and sciatica. “Our physicians and staff love our patients and consider it an honor and a privilege to have them trust us with their care,” shares Dr. Glaser. He truly appreciates the support of the Calabasas community and beyond and vows to continue his mission to improve each patient’s quality of life. n
Jeffrey B. Glaser, M.D. Glaser Pain Relief Center 16311 Ventura Blvd., #518 Encino 818.501.PAIN (7246) glaserpainrelief.com
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GET FIT. Stay Fit!
By Marc Cohen
It’s that time of year when we make all of our New Year’s
your health and wellbeing. The IHealth Feel Wireless Mon-
resolutions. You know the ones I’m talking about – those
itor is a cuff that allows you to attach your smartphone
resolutions that we break within 30 days. It’s a struggle to
to it. It tracks your blood-pressure readings and provides
keep them, but when it comes to fitness, we should all do
a single charge for up to 80 measurements while retain-
our best to stay fit.
ing the last 200 readings.
Fitness and eating the right foods are essential to a healthy
Foam rollers have been used for years to work out
lifestyle and our own personal longevity.
sore-muscle issues. The Hyperice Vyper 2 adds a new twist. It features three
HERE ARE A FEW WAYS TO HELP IN THIS CHALLENGING GOAL:
speeds of high-intensity vibration and lasts two hours on a single charge. It’s more expensive than a normal
For me, in additional
roller at $199.00, but
to a workout program,
adding
I keep track of my
might give you that
weight on a daily basis.
extra benefit that justi-
I adjust my daily eating
fies the price.
the
vibration
by my weight. This is difficult and admittedly a
Do you have $1,500
bit obsessive but for the
to put towards your
most part it works.
health? If so, I found one of the most unique
I found a great scale
workout
made by Etekcity. It
It’s called the Mirror.
sends your data to your
When it’s off, it’s a full-
smart device as soon
yet.
body mirror, but when
as you step off the scale. It tracks 13 different key compo-
you turn it on, it becomes a gym. The Mirror connects
sitions, including weight, BMI, body fat, visceral fat, and a
you with certified trainers who walk you through a num-
number of other components of your health. Unlike most
ber of different workouts. You can even sync it to your
scales which limit the number of users, this one allows for un-
Apple watch to track your progress. It instructs you as
limited users. Max weight is 400 pounds, with the bonus that
if it’s an in-class workout. Classes run 15 to 60 minutes,
it is a really nice-looking product. One of the best features is
and you can add up to six members at no additional
the price, as most scales of this nature cost upwards of $70
cost. In fact, you could even start your own gym and
to $80. But this one is available for $19.99 on Amazon.
charge your friends and family to attend! Well, maybe not.
Too hard to make it to the gym? If that’s the case, the Cubil Pro might fit the bill because it’s an under-desk ellip-
Whatever you choose, please
tical machine. In addition to being very quiet, it provides a
stay healthy. I get paid by the
low-impact workout and keeps track of your workouts via its
reader, so let’s do it for Marc! n
smart-device connection. It is a bit pricey at $350, but it’s all about your health, right? As we all know, high blood pressure can cause serious health issues. Keeping track of your numbers is essential to
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See you on the radio!
Marc Cohen
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and a Personal Experience
Quality Products
By Lori Berezin Photograhy by Marvin Steindler According to a recent study, CBD sales in the U.S. will surpass $20 billion by 2024. There’s little wonder our community and others across the country are seeing an increase in dispensaries and retail stores selling CBD oil products. One of the most popular, Your CBD Store, recently opened in Woodland Hills. With over 500 locations in the United States and an estimated 1,000 total locations in 2020, it is the largest CBD specialty retail store in our country. International expansion is underway with the United Kingdom and more countries to follow.
Your Partner in Vitality Each Your CBD Store offers a comfortable and inviting environment where guests can learn about CBD, try free samples, and feel empowered to make a confident choice on the best CBD option for them. The organic growth, client testimonials, and lab reports further attest to
Your CBD Store™
the premium quality of their SunMed™ CBD products.
All CBD Oils Are Not Alike Michelle from the Woodland Hills Your CBD Store says, “Our products are sourced from the highest quality, organically grown hemp from Colorado, certified by the state’s Department of Agriculture. SunMed CBD, recipient of two prestigious Excellence Awards at the recent USA CBD Expo in Miami, is the exclusive provider of our company’s CBD-related products. Our phytocannabinoid-rich (PCR) hemp provides a naturally high CBD level plus an abundance of other beneficial cannabinoids (CBG, CBN, CBC) as well as flavonoids and terpenes, which give each plant distinct aromas, characteristics, and essential amino acids.”
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The hemp plant contains over 100 different cannabinoids, including the beneficial CBD, or cannabidiol. This same hemp contains only a small amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the principal psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. So, it doesn’t produce the high associated with marijuana. The THC is extracted and removed for broad spectrum products. Many clients do not want the THC or are very sensitive to it so the broad spectrum CBD products are a great alternative.
SunMed Chief
Science Officer Dr. Anthony Ferrari holds a PhD in analytical chemistry and emphasizes that the company’s product development is focused on and driven by science-based data to provide clients with premium products.
Tinctures and Soft Gels and Supplements, Oh My! Your CBD Store offers a variety of natural CBD oil products, including water-solubles, edibles, tinctures, soft gels, vaping pens, and topical applications. They even sell tinctures and CBD treats for your favorite pets. Using a CO2 extraction process that eliminates the need for chemical solvents, they produce a high-quality CBD. All products are third-party lab tested with lab reports to match each product. They do recommend consulting your doctor if you plan to replace your traditional medication with more natural CBD oil products. Michelle and her staff will gladly answer all your CBD questions and partner with you on your journey to health and vitality. n Your CBD Store 22720 Ventura Blvd. Woodland Hills 818.456.4208 cbdrx4u.com
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Ask the
Pediatrician How to Choose a Pediatrician By Dr. Tanya Altmann and Dr. Tiffany Fischman If you are pregnant or if you just moved to the area, congratulations! Pregnancy, having a baby, and raising kids are the most exciting times in your life. Here are some things to consider when searching for a great pediatrician or if you’re not fully satisfied with your current pediatrician. Where to Start First, talk to your friends, neighbors, and colleagues with kids. Find out if they are impressed with their pediatrician and pediatrician’s office. Is it easy to email/text or call with questions and get appointments when needed? You can go online and read reviews and talk to your obstetrician for recommendations. Convenience is a huge factor when it comes to hours and availability and proximity to your home or work. Schedule a Prenatal Appointment or Meet-and-Greet Many pediatricians offer prenatal appointments or meet-andgreets so you and your family have the opportunity to meet the doctor, ask questions, and get a feel for how comfortable you are. Some questions to ask are: How easy/difficult is it to schedule an appointment? How long is each appointment? Can I email, text, or call you with questions when needed? Do you see newborns in the hospital after birth and if so at which hospitals? What happens after hours when my child is sick? Perhaps the most important thing is the feeling you get when you meet and speak with your prospective pediatrician. This is someone you will rely on to help ensure that your family is on track for a life of good health, wellness, and school success. In addition, it is someone that you will trust to care for your child during illnesses and if any medical or mental health issues arise.
Tanya Altmann, MD, FAAP Tiffany Fischman, MD 23586 Calabasas Rd., #107 Calabasas 818.914.4429 CalabasasPedsWellness.com drtanya.com
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Fighting
Inflammation to Restore Your Health
By Lori Berezin Inflammation is a natural process that assists our bodies with
• Meditate to ward off stress
healing following injuries. However, when inflammation con-
• Exercise moderately
tinues too long or wages war on our own healthy cells, as it does in autoimmune diseases, it can actually impede long-
If this sounds daunting, identify one or two culprits and begin
term health.
there. Enjoy a bounty of anti-inflammatory fruits and vegetables. Feast on delicious low-mercury, high-omega-3 fish and
Silent inflammation increases the probability of certain illness-
seafood, such as wild salmon, sardines, cod, tilapia, shrimp,
es, such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and stroke. It can
oysters, scallops, and crab. Minimize foods high in saturated
also lead to autoimmune diseases from lupus to rheumatoid
and trans fats, such as dairy and red meat. Limit partially hy-
arthritis. There is hope. Making simple and not so simple lifestyle
drogenated oils; sugary foods; cooking oils and margarines
changes to diet, exercise routine, and more can often lessen
high in omega-6 fatty acids, such as corn, safflower, and
ongoing inflammation.
sunflower oils; and refined carbohydrates, such as white rice
Tips to help fight inflammation:
and bread. Exchange white rice for brown rice or quinoa. Eat a few almonds or walnuts instead of bread. Add salsa
• Eat a rainbow of colorful fruits and veggies
to food for flavor in lieu of salt or added fat. Eat more foods
• Avoid exposure to pesticides in our food and gardens
rich in omega-3s.
• Use more natural cleaning and beauty products • Limit food additives, such as MSG and salt
Leave the pain behind and begin the fight against chronic
• Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
inflammation today. n
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Ask the
Pharmacist Q
My blood pressure medication was recently changed due to a recall. I am concerned the new medication may not be as effective as the one I was taking for years. How can I tell if it is working?
A
You have reason to be concerned. High blood pressure is often called "the silent killer." This is because you can have high blood pressure and still feel just fine.
It often doesn’t cause visible signs of illness but can lead to stroke, heart disease, eye problems, kidney failure, and other health problems. Some people experience symptoms such as headaches or shortness of breath if their blood pressure runs too high. Some people may experience dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting if their blood pressure is too low. But most people do not have any symptoms at all. The best way to tell if your medication is working is to check your blood pressure. This is often done at the doctor’s office but most patients only see their doctor a few times a year. There are many home blood-pressure monitors for sale. Ask your healthcare provider which monitor you need and how to use it. To get an accurate reading, avoid smoking, exercise, and caffeine 30 minutes before checking your blood pressure. Make sure you are sitting with your feet uncrossed and on the floor and that your back is resting against something. Try to relax quietly for five minutes before checking your blood pressure. Many pharmacies offer free blood-pressure checks when you come in. Ask about it on your next visit.
The Amer-
ican Heart Association recently updated its guidelines. High blood pressure is now considered anything over 130/80. This is very common even for people who have heart-healthy habits. The good news is that blood pressure can be controlled in most people with medication and lifestyle changes. These include maintaining a healthy weight with diet and exercise, not smoking, decreasing salt intake, lowering stress, and improving sleep habits. So check your blood pressure and check it often!
Brenda Johnson, R.Ph. Calabasas Pharmacy Owner Inside Gelson’s Market 22277 Mulholland Hwy. Calabasas M – F: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. P: 818.223.8656 F: 818.223.8750 calabasaspharmacy.com
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16TH ANNUAL JAKE’S LADDER The Dyne family, in conjunction with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, hosted the 16th Annual Jake’s Ladder fundraiser on Sunday, October 27 at the Commons at Calabasas. Jake’s Ladder is part of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s annual fundraising efforts, celebrating Jacob Dyne who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF) at only 14 months old. Their mission is to help people with CF live longer, healthier lives while simultaneously searching for a cure.
Cyst-
ic fibrosis is a life-threatening genetic disease for which there is currently no known cure. It affects 30,000 patients in the United States and 70,000 worldwide. Over the past 16 years, this event has raised just over $2.3 million. Fifty years ago, most children with CF did not live long enough to attend elementary school. Today, the median age for a person living with CF is 47 years. To get involved, visit fightCFF.cff.org.
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MUSE School Educating Beyond Boundaries By Lori Berezin The MUSE School in Calabasas Founders Suzy Amis Cameron and Rebecca Amis and faculty believe today’s students need outside opportunities to help them see how sharing their lives, skills, talents, and passions can truly impact others. They believe students’ anxieties about the future and the world they will soon lead can best be alleviated by real-world interactions. To that end, they’ve created a cross-cultural human rights program as part of their curriculum. For the past seven years, the school also partnered with Mending Kids, which provides life-saving surgical care for children across the globe while promoting medical sufficiency within communities. Mending Kids Executive Director Isabelle Fox helps form global alliances, building a bridge between doctors, schools, and communities in need. When the Moore Pediatric Center in Guatemala City reached out to Mending Kids for support, a team was deployed including MUSE students from grades 10 through 12 currently enrolled in the Human Rights program. Jeffrey Martin, who coordinates the program and teaches humanities courses at MUSE, oversaw the students. Dr. Namrata Varma, DO, pediatric otolaryngologist, from Miller Children’s and Women’s Hospital in Long Beach, served as
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lead surgeon during Mending Kids’ annual ear, nose, and throat (ENT) mission. A dedicated group of surgeons, anesthesiologists, operating room personnel, and recovery nurses completed the team. Mr. Martin explains, “On these missions, I get to see my students adapt and create, communicate and collaborate, and work through challenges and comfort-zone limitations that can only occur outside the classroom in a real-world setting. We all learn, myself especially, that service to others is challenging. These missions have changed my perspective on what it means to be an educator and how to connect with and value each individual student. The learning and growth that occurs on these trips transfers back to the classroom in confidence, stronger voices, and community. We also learn a tremendous amount about medicine, access to health care, and the culture and people of Guatemala.” Former student and program participant Tania Nasrallah—currently attending UCLA with a double major in anthropology and sociology—explains how that experience informed both her college studies and career choice. “It was amazing. The most touching part for me was talking to patients’ parents. Since I was able to speak a bit of Spanish, I could relay much-appreciated messages about their children’s operation and recovery. I went back to Guatemala this summer to study archeology and all of those great memories from my MUSE trip came rushing back.” The other student participants noted equally positive experiences. This year, after screening over 123 patients, the schedule included 101 planned surgical procedures. During the week, several students played with kids prior to their surgeries, while others entered data for the hospital and Mending Kids. Students sorted supplies and put together gift bags for patients. They rotated through operating and recovery rooms to learn from and support the doctors and nurses. They collaboratively paid it forward, always gaining more than they gave. The MUSE students truly make a difference while sharing amazing experiences they’ll treasure throughout their lives. n “Being with the kids is always a blessing and puts a smile on my face. Special thank you to Mending Kids and Jeffrey!” -– Ben Sie
Seeds
Hemp, flax, pumpkin, sunflower, chia,
and their benefits
By Lori Berezin Hilled Hemp Seeds: They are rich in iron, phosphorus, magnesium, How many different seeds do we really need to be eating? They
and manganese. They contain healthy fats and both omega-3 and
have health benefits but where do we draw the line and which
omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. This helps prevent heart dis-
are the best bang for the buck? They are superfoods that are full
ease and osteoarthritis.
of energy boosters, protein, fiber, and nutrients. They can be sprinkled, blended, pureed, and even crushed. They offer a great way
Pepitas and Pumpkin Seeds: They offer protein as a snack and are
to introduce plant-based healthy protein into your diet. They add
full of healthy fats, magnesium, and phosphorus.
crunchy texture as toppings, and they are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats. And they have flavor. Add
Sunflower Seeds: These kernels are a good source of B-vitamin
them to your favorite smoothie bowls, salads, yogurt, soups, and
folate, which is good for pregnancy and heart disease. They also
oatmeal. What’s not to love in these tiny superfoods?
are rich in vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant.
Chia Seeds: They are high in fiber and help lower cholesterol. They
Watermelon Seeds: These have high doses of protein and zinc.
are a great source of omega-3 essentials fatty acids and calcium. Sesame Seeds: They are a great source of iron. Flax Seeds: They are a great source of potassium, which helps to lower blood pressure. Ground seeds are high in essential fatty acids.
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Before starting any new health related regimen, please consult your doctor. Source: healthline.com/nutrition/6-healthiest-seeds.
Physician and Health Care Provider
DIRECTORY 2020 Good health and well-being are our most important resources. Without them, nothing else matters. Fortunately, we live in an area where we have access to some of the best hospitals, doctors, dentists, and heath care professionals in the country, dedicated to helping us achieve the health and wellness goals for ourselves and our families. Calabasas Style is proud to present you with this medical resource guide to help you learn more about some of the great medical professionals living and working in our community. As we enter into a new year, we hope that you will find this resource guide helpful on your healthy and happy journey!
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WEST HILLS HOSPITAL & MEDICAL CENTER Mark Miller | Chief Executive Officer 7300 Medical Center Dr., West Hills 818.676.4000 | westhillshospital.com
Mark Miller is the president and CEO of West Hills Hospital, where he oversees a staff of more than 900 people that bring outstanding service to every bedside. His main focus is on quality care, patient satisfaction, and physician and employee engagement. Mark Miller held several other HCA executive positions including COO of Grand Strand Health in HCA’s South Atlantic Division and CEO of HCA’s Lake City Medical Center in Florida. Miller also served in the West Florida Division of HCA as the COO of both Northside Hospital and Largo Medical Center. Miller received his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Middle Tennessee State University and earned two master’s degrees in business administration and health administration from Georgia State University. In his spare time, Miller enjoys coaching youth sports teams and is involved with many community organizations. He serves on the board of the Calabasas Chamber of Commerce and is a proud member of the American College of Healthcare Executives and National Association of Health Services Executives. West Hills Hospital is a full-service acute care facility serving the West San Fernando Valley for over 50 years. The hospital offers a full complement of advanced technology, compassion, and responsive care for the improvement of human life. West Hills Hospital was the first accredited chest pain center in Los Angeles County and also provides specialized care in the emergency department, intensive care unit, outpatient services, cardiac catheterization labs, and The Grossman Burn Center.
GLASER PAIN RELIEF
Jeffrey B. Glaser, MD | Interventional Pain Management 16311 Ventura Blvd., #518, Encino 818.501.PAIN (7246) | glaserpainrelief.com Jeffrey Brian Glaser, M.D. – Medical Director of the Glaser Pain Relief Center – is a UCLA-trained, award-winning, dual-board-certified interventional pain management physician. For almost 20 years, Dr. Glaser has been the premier pain management physician in the Los Angeles area, recognized as one of the best in his field amongst his peers and as the “pain management physician to the stars.” Patients travel to his Encino office from across the country. Dr. Glaser specializes in minimally invasive, state-of-the-art treatments for conditions causing back pain, neck pain, and sciatica. He treats sports injuries and disorders of the major joints, migraines, and conditions such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and peripheral neuropathy. He believes that “it is important to understand what is important to a patient and what their goals are. I work with my patients to achieve pain relief that allows them to live a more fulfilling and happy life. Most patients don’t realize that surgery is rarely needed to treat their pain, and I help them realize that there are other less-invasive options available. When surgery is indicated, I partner with the best spine surgeons in the industry to ensure my patients receive outstanding continuity of care by a team that is integrated and has the patient’s best interest at heart.” Dr. Glaser completed medical school at the prestigious Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University and his internship and residency at the world-renowned UCLA. He is proud to be a resident of Calabasas.
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BELLA SKIN INSTITUTE
Anna Guanche, MD 23622 Calabasas Rd., #339, Calabasas 818.225.0117 | bellaskininstitute.com Anna Guanche, MD, is a board-certified celebrity dermatologist and author specializing in cosmetic procedures. Her practice, Bella Skin Institute in Calabasas, is where she has assembled her “derm dream team” of professionals to care for the concerns of celebrities, CEOs, and supermoms. The state-of-the-art facility is warm and engaging and provides clients with the most innovative procedures available to perfect skin. Bella Skin Institute is dedicated to combining medical science and cosmetic beauty to provide clients with customized treatments to meet their needs, from dermatology services to minimally invasive cosmetic procedures performed at the facility. Procedures include resurfacing, hair removal, Bella FX, Bella Microgold, as well as other laser treatments, plateletrich plasma for collagen rejuvenation, Thermage CPT™, KyBella™ injectables for reduction of double chin, GuancheLift™ procedure for a noninvasive reduction. Aesthetic services include microdermabrasion and dermalinfusion, dermaplaning, facials, and waxing. General dermatology services include skin cancer screening and surgery and acne, rash, and eczema treatments. Dr. Guanche is a fellow of the American Board of Dermatology, was a member of the dermatology staff at UCLA Dermatology department for 13 years, and continues to teach physicians and residents in her office. Dr. Guanche and her staff approach their work with absolute joy and infectious enthusiasm, which is felt throughout the practice.
Photography by TMatthew Cooke
lift, Ultherapy for skin tightening, and the latest injectables for wrinkle
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA SINUS INSTITUTE Alen N. Cohen, MD, FACS, FARS 7345 Medical Ctr. Dr., #510, West Hills 818.888.7878 | socalsinus.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. 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 Southern California. He has also been named a Los Angeles Magazine Super Doctor annually since 2013 and a national Castle-Connolly Top Doctor since 2017. As such, thousands of patients have benefitted from Dr. Cohen’s life-changing 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 so the sinuses can drain, thus preventing sinus infections, and so the patient can breathe better. As such, patients routinely come to him from all over Southern California for management of their chronic nose and sinus problems and definitive relief.
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WESTLAKE WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS THE GYNO
Stephanie Mandelman, MD | Board-Certified Obstetrics and Gynecology 1250 La Venta Dr., #101B, Westlake Village 805.496.0880 | thegyno.com Dr. Stephanie Mandelman has a unique approach to conventional medicine which includes traditional methods as well as the most modern solutions in all areas of women’s obstetrical and gynecological health. Her priority is to use the most appropriate methods for the best healthcare for women of all ages while maintaining warm and caring relationships with her patients. Dr. Mandelman provides complete women’s healthcare including obstetrics, surgical and office gynecology, infertility, and menopausal management. Her obstetrics practice is an intimate environment where patients receive the highest level of care for themselves and their unborn baby, with state of the art facilities and the most up-to-date prenatal testing. She also offers a full range of gynecologic services — from annual check-ups and routine Pap smears, to gynecologic problem visits and surgeries and treats all types of menopausal problems. She is also one of the few locally-based, board-certified gynecologists performing the MonaLisa Touch procedure -- a laser treatment for vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. She attended the Chicago Medical School and did her OB/GYN internship at UCLA and completed her residency training at the University of New Jersey (UMDNJ). She has been practicing since 1999 and started her own practice in 2006 in Westlake. She is currently active on staff at Los Robles Hospital in Thousand Oaks and West Hills Hospital. She is affiliated with Thousand Oaks Surgical Hospital and the Los Robles SurgiCenter.
MATT HERSHCOVITCH, MD
Double-Board-Certified Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon | ENT/Head & Neck Surgeon 696 Hampshire Rd., #210, Westlake Village | 805.371.0004 7345 Medical Center Dr., #510, West Hills | 818.888.7878 | facebydrh.com Renowned, double-board-certified, facial plastic surgeon Dr. Hershcovitch possesses the unique expertise to tackle a myriad of surgical procedures. Utilizing his years of training and deep knowledge of facial aesthetics and rhinoplasty (nose surgery), he creates natural results for clients throughout Calabasas, Hidden Hills, and West Hills. Dr. Hershcovitch guides each patient with care and understanding to make informed decisions and maintain peace of mind. Every aspect of this transformation, beginning with the initial consultation through the plastic surgery and subsequent recovery, is personalized. Dr. Hershcovitch is passionate about matching his patients’ inner and outer beauty and continually creates subtle, natural results. From modern medical offices to a compassionate, professional staff, the doctor ensures that his patients feel supported throughout the entire process. After completing his degree in nuclear engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Dr. Hershcovitch pursued a medical degree from the State University of New York. He performed his residency training in head and neck surgery at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and completed his fellowship from the prestigious Mittelman Plastic Surgery Center at Stanford University. He is double board certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology. He’s been honored many times during his illustrious career. His work has also been published in numerous well-known scientific publications as he continues to present his research to the medical community.
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ANDREW T. COHEN, MD, FACS Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon 5400 Balboa Blvd., #217, Encino 310.659.8771 | andrewcohenmd.com
Andrew Cohen, MD, FACS, is a board-certified plastic surgeon dedicated to providing the highest-quality care in an advanced, safe environment with attention to detail and patient confidentiality. A native of Southern California, Dr. Cohen has an office and an accredited state-of-the-art procedure room in the heart of Encino. Since moving his practice from Beverly Hills, Dr. Cohen is pleased to offer comprehensive plastic surgery care at his new Encino office which is conveniently located off the 101 Freeway and Balboa Boulevard. Dr. Cohen is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and proudly serves as the Clinical Chief of the Division of Plastic Surgery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. He completed both his general surgery training and plastic surgery residency at Loma Linda University. Dr. Cohen completed specialized fellowship training in aesthetic surgery, making him a highly specialized plastic surgeon of the body and face. Body contouring, liposuction, breast reduction, breast augmentation, and tummy tucks are some of the cosmetic procedures regularly performed at his practice. Dr. Cohen regularly instructs plastic surgery residents at USC and Loma Linda University and is an invited lecturer for various plastic surgery organizations. He has participated in missionary work in Argentina where he operated on children with cleft lip and palate defects. Dr. Cohen is happily married and the proud father to three sons. He is a competitive half-marathon runner and enjoys Scuba diving, skiing, and cooking in his spare time.
CALABASAS PHARMACY
Brenda Johnson, R. Ph. | Inside Gelson’s Market 22277 Mulholland Hwy., Calabasas 818.223.8656 | calabasaspharmacy.com Calabasas Pharmacy celebrates over 20 years in the community. Pharmacist Brenda Johnson opened the pharmacy because she wanted to practice pharmacy by getting to know her patients and providing comprehensive care in an efficient manner. Consumer Reports states that independent pharmacies make fewer errors, offer swifter service, and are more likely to have medications ready for pickup when promised – which holds true for Calabasas Pharmacy. Brenda was one of the first pharmacists to become certified to administer immunizations 20 years ago. She is certified in all immunizations, including the shingles, pneumonia, and Tdap. Brenda is also trained in hormonal contraception and can conveniently furnish birth control to patients. Calabasas Pharmacy provides medication synchronization, which means they will synch all your medications so they can be picked up together, once a month, before you run out of anything. Your prescriptions and vitamins can be prepackaged into a blister packaging system to remind you to take them at the correct time each day. Calabasas Pharmacy offers free blood pressure checks anytime and cholesterol testing by appointment for a fee. The pharmacy takes most insurance plans, including Medicare Part D, and works with your doctor to get your medications approved. Calabasas Pharmacy is open seven days a week. It is very easy to transfer existing prescriptions by calling directly at 818.223.8656.
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REMEDY SKIN + BODY
Talia Emery, MD 3723 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village 805.497.9400 | remedyskinandbody.com
What sets Remedy Skin + Body apart from other medical spas? It’s their philosophy that when it comes to cosmetic treatments, less is often more. Talia Emery, M.D., founded Remedy in Westlake Village in 2010 after recognizing the need for a new kind of medial aesthetics business. “There were Botox and laser med spas popping up everywhere but most were providing a ‘one-size-fits-all’ service. I wanted to make it personal and focus on the highest-quality expertise, service, and outcomes.” Led by Dr. Emery, the team of medical practitioners at Remedy is known for their personalized, natural-looking approach to facial and body rejuvenation treatments. This has earned them top distinctions in their field, including being named a ‘“Top 50” practice by Allergan since 2017, a status given to the most experienced aesthetic providers nationwide. Dr. Emery prides herself on the long-standing relationships she has with her clients and the impeccable reputation she has attained with them. In addition to seeing patients, Dr. Emery is a certified speaker and trainer for Allergan, the makers of BOTOX® and Juvederm®, and in that role, she is engaged to speak to and train physicians and their staffs across the country. Remedy is honored to be celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and looks forward to bringing the best of next decade’s medical aesthetics to its Westlake and Malibu locations.
CALWEST HEAD & NECK SURGICAL INSTITUTE Marc Kerner, MD, FACS 18350 Roscoe Blvd., #318, Northridge 818.349.0600 | calwestent.com
The Calwest Head and Neck Surgical Institute is the premiere Center of Excellence for Comprehensive Head and Neck medical and surgical problems in Southern California. All of their doctors 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, and otolaryngology. 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. Dr. Kerner has developed a number of cutting-edge surgical techniques and instruments in his field. He was the first to use computer-aided, image-guided technology for sinus surgery in Southern California. He was also the first to introduce balloon sinus technology and powered instrumentation in sinus surgery to UCLA and the community, as well as platelet gel technology in maxillofacial and facial plastic surgery. Dr. Kerner is a Clinical Professor of Surgery at Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Adjunct Professor of Communcation Sciences at California State University, Northridge. He previously served as the Chief of Surgery at Northridge Hospital Medical Center.
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CALABASAS PEDIATRIC WELLNESS CENTER Tanya Altmann, MD, FAAP 23586 Calabasas Rd., #107, Calabasas 818.914.4429 | calabasaspedswellness.com
Dr. Tanya Altmann is a UCLA-trained pediatrician providing personalized, concierge pediatric healthcare with an emphasis on integrative medicine, nutrition, and a healthy lifestyle. As a spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics and an assistant clinical professor at UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital, Dr. Tanya has a broad understanding of the most recent medical developments. She is the author of several bestselling parenting books and is a child-health expert for numerous news programs and talk shows. With more than 20 years of experience helping families with everything from day-to-day health concerns to choosing the best preschool to gathering experts from around the country to solve unusual cases, Dr. Tanya is the go-to pediatrician in Calabasas, seeing children from birth through college. Her office offers comprehensive appointments, virtual visits, home visits, and 24/7 communication via email or text for today’s busy families to reach their pediatrician when needed, even while traveling.
health and wellness from pregnancy through college. In addition to top-notch pediatric medicine, the wellness center offers experts in a variety of fields, including lactation, nutrition, speech therapy, parenting, mental health, neurofeedback, and eating-disorder treatment. With many classes available, including labor and delivery, baby care, mommy and me, and tween/teen mindfulness, there is something for every family who desires to raise healthy, happy, well-adjusted, and successful children, teens, and young adults.
Photography by Dana Patrick
Dr. Tanya founded Calabasas Pediatrics Wellness Center to provide child-centered
ADOLESCENT AND YOUNG ADULT MEDICINE MEDICAL CARE FOR EATING DISORDERS Leslie Kaplan, MD | Calabasas Pediatrics Wellness Center 23586 Calabasas Rd., #107, Calabasas 818.739.0330 | drlesliekaplan.com Dr. Kaplan is a pediatrician specializing in adolescent and young adult medicine with over 20 years of experience treating and helping guide the medical treatment of patients with eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, avoidant restrictive food intake disorder, and related disorders. She now offers her unique medical expertise in a concierge-type practice at the Calabasas Pediatrics Wellness Center, one of only a handful of doctors in the country with a private practice specializing in eating disorders. In this ideal setting, she is unfettered by time constraints and can devote as much time and attention as is needed for optimal care of her patients. After receiving her medical degree from UCLA, Dr. Kaplan went on to pediatric residency and an adolescent medicine fellowship. Since then, Dr. Kaplan has treated adolescents and young adults in a variety of primary care settings and has worked with countless eating disorder patients at Pepperdine University and elsewhere. She also helped establish the Eating Disorder Treatment Team at KPMG, Woodland Hills, and served as supervising physician at a local eating disorder treatment center. Dr. Kaplan works in conjunction with community therapists, psychiatrists, and nutritionists to offer the gold standard of eating disorder treatment team care. In addition, she provides general medical care to adolescents and young adults in the Calabasas Pediatrics Wellness Center model, which couples the best of conventional medicine with a holistic, integrative approach.
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CALABASAS MED SPA
Lawrence Osman, MD 23659 Calabasas Rd., Calabasas | 818.225.0122 18546 Roscoe Blvd., #306, Northridge | 818.885.0455 | calabasasmedspa.com Board-certified dermatologist and owner of Calabasas Med Spa, Dr. Lawrence Osman, has been treating patients for over 15 years. Having trained with some of the pioneers in the fields of dermatology and minimally invasive rejuvenation, Dr. Osman offers comprehensive treatments ranging from skin-cancer exams and acne treatments to lasers and injectables. With more than 25 years combined experience, Dr. Osman and his team at Calabasas Med Spa employ cuttingedge treatments, including minimally invasive liposuction under local anesthesia, noninvasive CoolSculpting body sculpting, and advanced facial rejuvenation. A recipient of the Health Beat Elite award, Dr. Osman helps maintain a high safety rating. The team is also a Black Diamond Provider of Botox, which places them in the top 1% of Botox cosmetic injectors in the entire United States. Dr. Osman earned his medical degree from the University of Southern California – Keck School of Medicine and completed his residency in 2002. Since then, he has received numerous awards, including the Physician’s Recognition Award from the American Medical Association. He continues to serve the educational community on the faculty of UCLA. He also belongs to the American Academy of Dermatology, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, and many other esteemed medical organizations. Caring and meticulous, Dr. Osman and his colleagues offer minimally invasive, quality care. Believing less is more, the doctor employs his keen eye for aesthetics and expert training to provide optimal results specifically tailored to fit each individual patient.
CALIFORNIA SPINE AND PAIN INSTITUTE Magued R. Fadly, MD, QME 7325 Medical Ctr. Dr., #103, West Hills 818.225.0045 | californiaspineandpain.com
Magued Fadly, MD, QME is an accredited fellowship-trained and board certified painmanagement physician who has dedicated his practice to the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of pain disorders and pain disability. He completed his residency in anesthesiology at Yale University and obtained his accredited fellowship in pain management at the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Fadly established his pain management practice in the San Fernando Valley and for the past decade has become the community’s choice for pain-management. Dr. Fadly performs procedures involving the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and pelvic regions. He treats spine pain and pain-related symptoms and is an expert on pediatric pain, bladder pain, and vulvodynia. He also treats patients suffering from fibromyalgia and migraines and all sports-related injuries. Dr. Fadly has remained dedicated to developing and teaching the most innovative pain management techniques, including the use of ozone revolution therapy to treat joint pain and the use of lasers for nerve ablations and percutaneous discectomy. His use of these state of the art practices means patients can return to their regular activities as quickly as possible. He has a recorded 95% personal success rate for pain relief within the first week of treatment and is dedicated in offering comprehensive pain care in a compassionate and nurturing environment. Dr. Fadly has been published in a range of academic journals and is the official educator of the Providence Tarzana Medical Center podiatry residency program for pain management and anesthesiology. He also lectures to multiple pain management fellowships throughout the country.
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HEAR CLEAR HEARING AIDS, INC.
Iris Stone, AuD., FAAA, Doctor of Audiology| Diagnostic Clinical | Dispensing Audiologist 4764 Park Granada, #109, Calabasas 818.222.HEAR (4327) | hearclearhearingaids.com Iris Stone, AuD, FAAA, Doctor of Audiology, earned her degrees from New York University, St. John’s University, and A.T. Still University in education, health administration, and audiology. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Audiology, the Academy of Doctors of Audiology, and the California Academy of Audiology. She sits on the board of directors of the Calabasas Chamber of Commerce and was the United Chambers of Commerce San Fernando Valley’s recipient of the 2016 Small Business Award and the 2017 Chamber of Commerce Chairmans’ Award for service in the Calabasas community. Her clinical expertise is in diagnostic testing, including comprehensive audiological evaluations, tinnitus evaluations, and management with a specialty in hearing-aid fittings and rehabilitation. Her unique style is her ability to listen to the concerns of each individual and find a solution based on patients’ budget acoustic, and cosmetic needs. Her focus is on her patients’ lifestyles, always delivering thorough care with complete follow-up. Hear Clear Hearing Aids, Inc., offers a completely new approach to a hearing care facility. Appointments start on time and last as long as needed. Despite the fact that hearing loss is the third most common health problem in the country, technology has become so advanced that it is possible to restore a person’s hearing almost 100% if they are properly diagnosed and fitted correctly with the right product. Dr. Stone uses state-of-the-art technology to test, counsel, and complete the needs of her patients, as well as provide the best quality care. Hear Clear Hearing Aids office is conveniently located on Park Granada across from the Commons at Calabasas.
HOPE HEALTH CENTER
Dr. Nader Javadi, MD | Hematologist and Oncologist 24100 Calabasas Rd., Calabasas 818.578.6454 | drnaderjavadi.com Nader Javadi, MD, is a board-certified hematologist and oncologist with over 20 years of experience. He’s a graduate of the internal medicine residency at Cleveland Clinic and completed his fellowship in the hematology/oncology program at St. Louis University hospital. Dr. Javadi was also a clinical assistant professor at UC Irvine from 2004 to 2007. Today, Dr. Javadi is the founder and current director of Hope Health Center of Calabasas. He has focused much of his career on developing and applying revolutionary therapies and writing new protocols for cancer treatment – advances which become tomorrow’s standards. Hope Health Center is an independent, private oncology clinic where all patients are treated using “precision oncology.” This means treatment protocols are customized to the individual patient. Precision oncology is in its infancy period in the U.S. and may take another 10 to 15 years to be used widely as a standard oncology practice. At Hope Health Center, this has begun already with years of experience in treating the most advanced cancers. It’s just one reason Dr. Javadi is increasingly known as a cancer thought leader and a primary referral source for complex cases. His combination protocols of chemotherapies with biologic/targeted/immune therapies have drastically increased patients’ survival and quality of life. Dr. Javadi has been featured as an oncology expert on many national and international TV and radio shows. He was also recognized as part of The Leading Physicians of the World in 2017 and was among the Best Doctors in America in 2018.
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CALABASAS MEDICINE CONCIERGE PRIMARY CARE Daniel Rosen, MD 23621 Park Sorrento, #102, Calabasas 818.797.8000 | calabasasmed.com
It’s time to allow yourself to settle into a new paradigm of health—one without long office wait times or feeling rushed at appointments. At Calabasas Medicine, boardcertified, internal-medicine physician Daniel Rosen, MD, and his experienced team offer personalized concierge medicine to make your experience as enjoyable, educational, and convenient as possible—all with a level of personalized care above and beyond traditional medical practices. Dr. Rosen specializes in adult outpatient and hospital medicine, managing both common and complex illnesses of adolescents, young adults, and the elderly. Dr. Rosen’s philosophy is to merge the best of “old-school medicine” with modern technology. Dr. Rosen takes as much time as patients need during appointments. He listens to patients and gives them a voice in their care. He also takes on lighter patient loads to ensure each patient receives top-quality care. House calls are an option for those with limited mobility or who simply can’t get to the office. As a concierge physician, Dr. Rosen organizes care, focusing on prevention and lifestyle treatments as well as needed medications. He offers acute and chronic disease management, diagnostic testing, comprehensive physical exams, and personalized treatments that get patients on the road to recovery quickly. He utilizes the most innovative, advanced technologies, recommending the least invasive options first. Dr. Rosen looks forward to welcoming new patients to his practice at his new office conveniently located at Park Sorrento in Calabasas. Valet parking provided.
LUNA OPTOMETRY
Emily James, O.D. 22247 Mulholland Hwy., Calabasas 747.232.2202 | lunaoptometry.com Dr. Emily James is a licensed optometrist. She earned her doctorate of optometry as a magna cum laude graduate of Southern California College of Optometry. Her practice, Luna Optometry, proudly opened its doors in November of 2019. This stateof-the-art vision and eye healthcare practice in Calabasas offers the latest technology available in diagnostic and therapeutic eyecare. Dr. James offers general and medical eye care, contact lenses, and eyewear to patients of all ages, from infants to seniors. Luna optometry’s boutique eyewear gallery is home to more than 500 pieces of the most sought-after names and designs in eyewear. With a bachelor’s degree in nutritional science and a passion for holistic wellness, Dr. James offers her patients a unique, modern approach to eyecare. She is trained in the treatment and management of eye diseases, including glaucoma, chronic dry eye, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease. She also manages patients with ophthalmology performing cataract and refractive surgery pre-operative and post-operative examinations. Dr. James has participated in FDA clinical studies as a sub-investigator for the newest technologies in wavefront-guided LASIK surgery and refractive corneal inlay procedures. Dr. James currently serves on the board of directors for the Los Angeles County Optometric Society. As a resident of Topanga Canyon, Dr. James is proud to be providing her community with premier eyecare for the whole family. She and her knowledgeable, compassionate team of professionals at Luna Optometry are committed to improving lives through enhanced vision.
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MK SPINE SURGERY
Michael A. Kropf, MD | Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon 444 S. San Vicente Blvd., #901, Los Angeles 310.248.7320 | mkspinesurgery.com Dr. Michael Kropf is a nationally recognized board-certified spine surgeon with over 25 years of experience in the treatment of spinal conditions and the most sophisticated and advanced surgical techniques. As one of the leading spine surgeons in Los Angeles and Orange County, Dr. Kropf’s patients travel from all over the nation for his valued opinion and treatment. He is known for his surgical skills in the field of motion preservation with artificial disc replacement and spinal deformity and as the West Coast expert in treating spinal conditions that affect little people. Dr. Kropf graduated from UCLA medical school in 1983 after completing an accelerated program. After his orthopedic residency, he became one of the best spine fellows at UCLA under Dr. Edgar Dawson and Dr. Rick Delamarter. Dr. Kropf is a senior surgeon at Cedars-Sinai spine center, considered as one of the top spine programs in the United States. As a leader in clinical research, Dr. Kropf has been a principle investigator in numerous clinical trials. Dr. Kropf has trained over 50 other spine fellows for over 20 years, passing along his principles, surgical skills, and expertise. Dr. Kropf and his spine team take pride in providing compassionate care to make sure that every patient can achieve a better quality of life. They ensure only the finest spine care.
MALIBU CANYON MED SPA David Vesco, MD 4937 Las Virgenes Rd., #104, Calabasas 310.903.2784 | malibucanyonmedspa.com
For nearly three decades, Dr. David Vesco, MD, has served as director for the Canyon Medical Center and Co-Founder of Malibu Canyon Medical Spa in Calabasas. The doctor incorporates his training in both internal medicine and surgery to help patients in such holistic areas as anti-aging, regenerative medicine, stem-cell treatments, sports medicine, neurology, and medical counseling. Since 2012, he has administered stem-cell and plateletrich plasma (PRP) treatments, which utilize one’s own blood to stimulate healthy cell regeneration and healing, to more than a thousand clients seeking facial cosmetic rejuvenations and joint treatments. His specialties include stem-cell nano-fat grafting, radio frequency, PRP hair restoration, PRP face and lip rejuvenation, and Smart CO2 Laser technology for facial resurfacing. Born and educated in Bulgaria, Dr. Vesco holds an impressive array of scientific, business, and scholarly achievements, including academic appointments at both the University of Michigan and University of California. He was the first medical doctor to recognize how hyperbaric-chamber oxygenation could benefit stroke patients. The doctor also wrote several highly regarded books and even coined the term “antioxidant.” He has since based much of his research on the topical application of bioflavonoids, laying the foundation for a whole new generation of skincare products. His award-winning discoveries have also led to some of the world’s most effective holistic skincare approaches utilized today at such innovative facilities as Malibu Canyon Medical Spa and beyond.
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RUMACK-HARMER PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
Elena Rumack, DDS & Lecia Harmer, DDS | Owners 16542 Ventura Blvd., #506, Encino | 818.943.8228 | encinotoothfairy.com 23622 Calabasas Rd., #119, Calabasas | 818.222.4543 | calabasastoothfairy.com Drs. Elena Rumack and Lecia Harmer met 10 years ago at UCLA Dental School and have been fast friends ever since. Both dental care providers are board certified specialists in pediatric dentistry and are co-owners of Rumack Harmer Pediatric Dentistry, in Calabasas and Encino. Dr. Elena Rumack obtained her DDS degree from UCLA. After completing a residency specializing in caring for patients with special needs, she completed a second residency in pediatric dentistry. Dr. Rumack has been a lecturer and clinical instructor at UCLA for the past 10 years. Affectionately called the “Tooth Whisperer” by parents, Dr. Elena is known for her gentle ways in treating children and comforting their parents. Dr. Rumack specializes in laser frenotomy procedures on infants and children with lip and tongue ties. She has been performing frenotomies for many years with great success. Dr. Lecia Harmer attended the University of Michigan and graduated with a B.S. in biochemistry with high honors. She obtained her DDS degree from UCLA, concurrently with a M.S. in oral biology. Dr. Harmer actively partici-
Both Dr. Elena and Dr. Lecia are known for their gentle way of putting children at ease when it comes to dental treatment. They strongly believe in preventive dentistry, focusing on nutrition, education, and positive reinforcement in a nurturing environment. To encourage early prevention of dental disease, both doctors encourage parents to bring their children in for their first dental visit by age 1, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
PAIR ORTHODONTICS
Jason Pair, DDS 23622 Calabasas Rd., #119, Calabasas 818.222.4543 | pairorthodontics.com After graduating from UC Los Angeles with a B.S. in physiological sciences, Dr. Pair traveled north to dental school where he attended UC San Francisco. He then completed his orthodontic residency in 1999 at UCLA, where he was chief resident. His research project was published in the American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, the leading peer-reviewed journal in the profession. He has had multiple case reports published since that time. Dr. Pair is a member of the San Fernando Valley Dental Society, where he was president for the year 2007. He is currently a peer review committee member. He is a lecturer and clinical instructor in the UCLA Orthodontics Residency Program. He is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, and the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists. In addition to lecturing at UCLA, he has lectured to the California Society of Pediatric Dentists, the California Dental Assistant Society and the San Fernando Valley Dental Assistant Society, the ROP program of Santa Clarita and at the University of Francisco Marroquin in Guatemala. He has participated in various volunteer dental organizations, traveling to Guatemala, Mexico, and Israel. Dr. Pair is dedicated to creating beautiful and healthy smiles and offers orthodontic services for children and adults. He is proud to be associated with Dr. Rumack and Dr. Harmer, serving the community where he resides. Services include all forms of braces, the Damon System, Invisalign, and Surgical and accelerated orthodontics for children, teens, and adults.
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Photography by Ashley Forchelli
pates in many community outreach programs, both locally and internationally.
WESTLAKE BODY CONTOURING & WELLNESS CENTER Dianne Lalena Sandberg, DC. 30423 Canwood St., #205, Agoura Hills 818.852.7352 | westlakebodycontouring.com
Dr. Dianne Lalena Sandberg, owner of Westlake Body Contouring and Wellness Center, specializes in photobiomodulation/photomedicine and is currently the only leading specialist in Southern California using high-level LED therapy for fat loss and chronic pain. This technology was originally founded by NASA to treat wound healing for the military by increasing collagen and elastin and decreasing inflammation. It was recently discovered that this noninvasive LED treatment is highly effective in liquefying fat from inside the cells. Many patients have seen amazing results when treated for fat reduction and body contouring, where patients can lose two to seven inches with their first treatment with no downtime. The treatment is also effective for facial rejuvenation and in treating youth acne. Dr. Dianne also treats patients who suffer from diabetic neuropathy, neuropathy, postsurgical incision healing, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and chronic joint pain. She is also one of the few concussion experts in the Valley and has had tremendous success treating athletes by using this LED technology. In addition to treating athletes, she treats many celebrities in the community. Dr. Dianne obtained a B.S. in Education from Louisiana Tech University and a B.S. in Kinesiology from UNLV, leading her to an MD degree from UCLA. She obtained her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from LACC and has been a treating chiropractor for 19 years. She is married to Dr. Jim Sandberg and has a 17-year-old son, James Bo. Dianne enjoys watching her son play hockey and spends her spare time as a wish granter for Make-A-Wish Foundation.
COURTYARD PHARMACY Greta Goldshtein, PharmD, APh 23693-B Calabasas Rd., Calabasas 818.403.3072 | courtyardpharmacy.com
Courtyard Pharmacy’s founding pharmacist, Greta Goldshtein, is an advanced practice pharmacist who earned her doctor of pharmacy from USC School of Pharmacy in 1997. Greta honed her skills as an inpatient pharmacist at CedarsSinai Medical Center and then as an outpatient pharmacist and owner of Roxbury Pharmacy in Beverly Hills. She based Courtyard Pharmacy’s services on a collaborative-care model that includes a pharmacist who can augment physician-provided care, deliver medication therapy management, provide preventative care services, and facilitate transitions of care. Greta believes that patients should have the opportunity to engage in meaningful partnerships with caring and knowledgeable health professionals who work together to simplify the process involved in receiving medical care. The pharmacy’s staff can steward the care of your family members to alleviate the burden on busy caregivers having to navigate medication therapy on their own. They also make house calls. Greta and her staff strive to build strong relationships with their neighbors so that they can get a full understanding of every patient’s needs, meet their expectations, and keep them involved in their care at every phase. They invite all potential patients to call the pharmacy or stop by to find out how the team can support you. State-of-the-art healthcare and wellness support are now available to all age groups at your doorstep in Calabasas.
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ELL EVE MED SPA
Irina Manukyan, FNP-C 20929 Ventura Blvd., #38, Woodland Hills 747.777.5007 | ellevemedspa.com A board-certified family nurse practitioner with a masters in nursing, Irina Manukyan, FNP-C, utilized her vast medical knowledge, passion for aesthetics, and strong people skills to open EllEve Med Spa in Woodland Hills. She incorporates expertise gleaned from 12 years of nursing with more than four years dedicated to women’s health and wellness to deliver some of the most advanced aesthetics treatments around. Irina’s honest, straightforward manner immediately puts you at ease. Combining her background in health and wellness, she uses her laser-like focus to offer each client an array of safe, balanced treatments resulting in healthy, glowing skin and a more youthful appearance. She’s created a rejuvenating haven in the heart of Woodland Hills, replete with minimalist décor and splashes of elegant black, gold, and white tones throughout. Reminiscent of a European spa, EllEve Med spa offers a welcome escape amidst the hustle and bustle of Ventura Boulevard. Versed in such medical spa treatments as serum and moisturizing injectables, body sculpting, laser hair removal and skin tightening, and revitalizing facials incorporating revolutionary topical ingredients, Irina turns the science of skincare and anti-aging therapies into an art. She’s also built a one-stop shop that also tends nails, brows, and lashes. It’s easy to surrender yourself to this innovative entrepreneur who combines Old World values with modern technology to create timeless beauty treatments in the San Fernando Valley.
NURSE NEXT DOOR Vineet Dua, Owner Serving Calabasas, Agoura Hills, Thousand Oaks, and surrounding areas 818.452.0530 | nursenextdoor.com
Nurse Next Door Owner Vineet Dua is proud to bring premium senior home care to the communities of Calabasas, Agoura Hills, Thousand Oaks, Malibu, and the surrounding areas. His goal is to give families peace of mind while allowing seniors to maintain their dignity and remain as independent as possible. The brand promise of the “perfect match, fast and easy access, 24/7 accessibility and service, and managing everything every step of the way” ensures this guarantee while maintaining continuity of care. Caregivers go through an extensive hiring process and are hired only if they fit the core values of the company. Caregivers are more than task-oriented as they also strive to build relationships with clients and help them achieve their goals. Families can expect a caring, committed, and passionate team of individuals that put clients and their happiness as the top priority. Nurse Next Door provides experts in Alzheimer’s and dementia, licensed and bonded caregivers, and nursing services where needed – all with no long-term contracts. They also have the ability, through their 24/7 Care Service Center, to provide support at any hour of the day. If the need arises, clients or clients’ family members can always speak with someone over the phone. Vineet Dua has been an entrepreneur for over 25 years. With two master degrees, he’s had extensive experience in operating and managing a small business with a team of employees.
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NEUROSENSE PSYCHOLOGY
Jonine Biesman, PsyD, ABPdN | Neuropsychologist 5016 Parkway Calabasas, Calabasas 818.415.6435 | neurosensepsychology.com
Dr. Jonine Biesman has over 20 years of experience specializing in assessing and treating children, adolescents, and young adults with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism, ADHD, and learning differences, and educational challenges. She works closely with families and conducts comprehensive child, adolescent, and adult neuropsychological and forensic evaluations. She also offers neurodevelopmental assessments and works extensively with parents in formulating treatment plans and early intervention programs for children ages 0 to 5. Dr. Biesman offers comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations with a specialty in pediatric neuropsychology and serves adult forensic cases and academic-related evaluations. She also co-created CyberSense Power Up (CPU), an intervention program for internet addictions. Engaging in play therapy with children specifically using DIR/Floortime approaches and other traditional psychotherapy models with adolescents, adults, and family systems is one of Dr. Biesman’s specialties. Dr. Biesman also provides expert testimony in complex legal cases for those who have suffered a birth injury, traumatic brain injury, and/or concussion, for example. She has served as a qualified medical expert for the Social Security Administration and has conducted independent medical evaluations for adults seeking disability benefits. Dr. Biesman is a board-certified pediatric neuropsychologist and diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Neuropsychology. She is also a licensed clinical psychologist.
KOSARI COUNSELING
Pejman Kosari, LMFT 5743 Corsa Ave., #221, Westlake Village 323.834.8453 | kosaricounseling.com
Utilizing his bachelor’s degree in psychology from UC Santa Barbara and master's degree in psychology, with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy, from Phillips Graduate University, Westlake Village therapist Pejman Kosari, LMFT, proudly serves the community where he grew up. Kosari’s psychology career spans more than 15 years. He began as a behaviorist, providing therapeutic services to children and families affected by autism spectrum disorder. Over the last decade, Kosari tailored his practice to individuals and families in a one-on-one, private, outpatient setting. He loves witnessing all the positive changes individuals and families make throughout their therapeutic journey. With his ability to connect with people on a basic humanistic level that emphasizes their individuality and personal worth, Kosari uses his empathetic, compassionate, nurturing approach to develop a strong therapeutic bond. “Taking the first step and asking for help can be scary,” explains Kosari. “But so can the alternative, which may feel like you are stuck, hopeless, lost, and alone.” Kosari specializes in treating depression, anxiety, special needs children, and autism spectrum disorder. He also works with individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders, which are mental health conditions coupled with addiction. Using a culturally sensitive, dynamic and goal-oriented approach, Kosari counsels people from all walks of life, helping them overcome the challenges and stresses of living in this multicultural metropolis.
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Healthy Choices S MOOTHIE B OW LS By Gayle Barnes
The best thing about smoothie bowls is that you can throw almost anything into them. If you are not familiar with smoothie bowls, they are basically extra thick smoothies that you eat with a spoon instead of drink through a straw. All the yummy toppings not only make them look delicious but also fill you up. You can keep them healthy by choosing your ingredients based on your taste. Often times, they turn green if you put a lot veggies in them. Our favorite tip is to use frozen fruit to make them extra thick. You can add vitamins and supplements – even collagen – as an added bonus.
California Greens Spinach Frozen Banana Mixed Berries Kiwi Toppings: Grouts, Coconut Shavings
Electric Pink
Pomegranate Juice Mixed Berries Yogurt Toppings: Oats, Pepitas, Blueberries, Raspberries, Hemp Seeds
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Razz Party
Banana Raspberries Coconut Milk Almond Butter Honey Topping: Strawberries, Kiwi, Blueberries, Banana, Granola
Purple Passion Blueberries Apple Juice Spinach Yogurt Toppings: Bananas, Strawberries, Kiwi, Boysenberries, Pepitas
Green Dream
Avocado Kale Spinach Almond Milk Banana Agave Syrup Toppings: Chia Seeds, Bananas, Blueberries
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Laughter Is Clearly the Best Medicine for Voiceover Artist
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Rob Paulsen
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By Lori Berezin “Laughter is the best medicine: The cool thing is you can't OD and the refills are free.” This is voiceover artist Rob Paulsen’s modern take on an old adage. The prolific entertainer who voiced such renowned characters as Raphael from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Pinky of Pinky and the Brain, and Yakko from Animaniacs followed his own advice when faced with daunting health issues of his own. Diagnosed with stage-three throat cancer in 2016, Paulsen fought the disease with plenty of humor and medicine. “Everybody’s got his or her own stuff to deal with, and this was my turn,” he explains, still recovering but essentially cancer-free. The universe clearly works in mysterious ways. Paulsen’s specific type of cancer threatened both his life and livelihood. He is forever grateful to Tower Hematology/Oncology and West Valley Radiation for their world-class cancer treatment, as well as his wife, Parrish, son, Ash, and daughter-in-law, Abisola, who remained relentless in their support. “I’ve had an amazing opportunity to connect with hundreds of children and families over the years via the characters I portray,” recounts Paulsen. “Many of these kids have died yet their parents continue reminding me of the deep connection their sweet babies had with those critters. Frequently, these loved ones still find solace and joy in them.” One of the hardest working, most in-demand voice artists in the industry, Paulsen earned a Daytime Emmy and Peabody, plus three Annie Awards for animation voiceover roles. He continues to grow as voice director for Nickelodeon’s upcoming Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series. Paulsen hosts a successful podcast, Talkin’ Toons (available on iTunes), and has announced several new dates for Animaniacs in Concert! (animaniacslive.com). He also gives back as this year’s head and neck cancer alliance spokesperson. According to the World Health Organization, head and neck cancer are now the sixth leading cancer worldwide, with more than 550,000 people diagnosed each year. The first-time author writes about his life’s joys and trials in his new book, Voice Lessons. He gives readers a look into the power of joy, courage, and empathy through what, to most of us, are just silly cartoon characters. Paulsen explains, “Silly is good, silly is healing. Wanting to be silly is human, especially when your other option is darkness, pain, and often the inevitable, untimely end of a young life.” He adds, “I choose silly.” “The possibility of dying gives us a glorious chance to become expert at living in the moment,” shares Paulsen. “Laugh from your soul everyday, cancer or not.” n
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Motor4Toys Charity Car Show
By Dustin Troyan Photographed by Tommy Huth The 16th Annual Motor4Toys Charity Car Show and Toy Drive was a huge success. The car community and the community at large supported this great event by coming out in record numbers. People from all over the Western United States showed up with cars packed with toys to donate to underprivileged children. It has become an annual tradition for thousands of people and tens of thousands of toys! Presented by Keyes Cars and Porsche Woodland Hills, Motor4Toys is the show to go to in December. Just about every car club imaginable supported the event, from Ferraris and Lamborghinis to classics, imports, hot rods, and 4x4s and everything in between. The big surprise this year was having the “Hero Cars� from the just-released movie Ford v Ferrari on display. Over the last 16 years, Motor4Toys has collected well over $6,000,000 in toys that were then distributed to children in need all over the state. A little grassroots movement has turned into one of the largest toy drives in the state. Motor4Toys has continued to grow outside of the car community. Partnering with schools, businesses, clubs, and volunteer organizations, it is the foundation’s goal to include as many people as possible who can assist during the holiday season. Our goal is to grow outside of the car community and to hopefully cover the entire state of California, helping as many kids as possible. For more information, to participate, or to donate, please visit motor4toys.com. n
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A Parent's
JOB Is Never
Done
By Gayle Barnes and Lori Berezin After 18 years or more, your nest may look empty but, rest
We are forever learning how to maintain the right balance
assured, you have many more days of parenting ahead. An-
of pushing, supporting, and backing off. Hopefully, we can
yone who’s raised children realizes it doesn’t end when they
still discuss some of our deepest concerns about parenthood
begin college, move away, or even marry. Your baby chicks
with our own parents.
always need you, even after they raise a few of their own. A parent’s job is to help children navigate the mysterious As they grow, your focus changes each year. You go from
path of life. We do the best we can, and hope they learn
being their one and only to the only ones who really know
well. There are no road maps. However, we can always
them inside and out. You continually worry. Are you raising
be their true north, shining beacons of comfort along the
them right? Are they adapting well? You go from stalking
way. We raise our children to stand on their own. If we
them on Find My Friends to checking what time they get
do our jobs well, they continue to come to us with their
home when they are away for college. Whether you’re con-
grown-up concerns, whether navigating the choppy wa-
cerned they can’t remember their ABCs or you’re worrying
ters from dating to marriage, buying their first home, or
about them staying safe as you watch them drive away in a
even starting families of their own. This lifelong connection
car without you for the first time, the caring continues.
is both comforting and daunting at the same time. Our job as parents is truly never done. n
We will always worry and always be there for them and drop everything when they need us.
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REETU DUA BOOK SIGNING AT BARNES & NOBLE Local Calabasas author Reetu Dua hosted a book signing event at Barnes & Noble in Calabasas on October 19. Her newest book, Adyn Loves the Indian Holidays, is her third published children’s book. Reetu – an attorney, wife, and mother to two boys, Arian and Adyn – published her first book, Ari Loves the Holidays, as a tool for families, caretakers, and teachers to teach children about the months of the year and traditions associated with the holidays. Her second book, Ari Loves the Solar System, was written for children to enjoy learning about the magical world of planets, stars, and asteroids. Her third book invites children to join Adyn as he enjoys Indian holidays and their rich culture and colorful traditions. All three of her books are fun, educational, and brought to life with beautiful illustrations. Her books are available in stores and on Amazon.com.
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NATIONAL LEAGUE OF YOUNG MEN MOTHER AND SON MEETING November 3 was a special meeting for the National League of Young Men (NLYM) as the West Valley Chapter hosted the All League Mother and Sons meeting at the Agoura Hills Calabasas Community Center. The group was honored to welcome guest speaker Mr. Bob Donovan, Operation Gratitude Ambassador and Vietnam Airforce veteran. In honor of Veteran’s Day, the moms and boys took the time to write meaningful letters of gratitude to our veterans for their service. Line dancing lessons were also a treat for all who participated. The NLYM is a nonprofit organization of young men in grades 9 to 12. The West Valley Chapter includes 172 young men and their mothers from high schools, including Agoura High, Calabasas High, Chaminade, Crespi, Oaks Christian, Oak Park High, Westlake High, Sierra Canyon, Viewpoint, and de Toledo. For additional details regarding the organization, visit nlymwestvalley.org.
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Enjoy a Taste of
Mediterraneo in Westlake Village
By Lori Berezin Photography by Marvin Steindler The newest item on Mediterraneo’s menu is the recent six-month remodel. Located on the lush grounds of the Westlake Village Inn, the tastefully redesigned restaurant is now open for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Guests can once again enjoy the ambiance of an open-air Tuscan-inspired villa right in their own backyard. The redesign incorporated light-colored upholstery to create a charming, airy feel. It also utilized custom-made chandeliers direct from Murano, Italy; a top-of-the-line Montague Broiler; a state-ofthe-art Waldorf Cooking Suite; and stunning artwork from Westlake Village Inn Owner John Notter’s personal collection.
Meander through Westlake Village Inn’s quaint cobblestone grounds, alive with vineyards, beautiful gardens, and an enchanting lake before or after your meal. The romantic ambiance continues with Mediterraneo’s stylish vibe. Fusing sunny Mediterranean and Californian influences, the bistro specializes in serving healthy, tantalizing dishes in a romantic setting. The perfect spot for special meals with family, friends, and colleagues, the restaurant has been pleasing locals and visitors alike since 2007. The new bar is even more spacious and sleek, offering an extensive wine list plus delightful handcrafted cocktails, such as their signature Blood Orange Old Fashioned, and scrumptious bites. A feast for all the senses, Mediterraneo’s newly revamped menu includes salatim, with some of the season’s best salads and spreads, such as tahini, roasted eggplant, Israeli salad, and more, all served
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with fresh pita. Then there’s the delicious grilled Spanish octopus, mushroom lentil kefte, homemade pasta, and a variety of Creekstone farms premium steaks, seared perfectly at 1500 degrees to ensure a caramelized crust and seasoned with steakhouse butter. Chef Lisa Biondi creates everything in-house, incorporating plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options to please every palate. With a focus on fresh, locally-sourced dishes, she creates mouthwatering Mediterranean-inspired delicacies, such as a whole branzino, a Mediterraneo specialty, grilled to perfection with olive oil and thyme and served with sautéed greens and ladolemono (lemon and olive sauce). Choose from farm, bakery, or garden-fresh dishes, such as cage-free eggs, warm blueberry muffins, or seasonal fruit for a healthy take on brunch. You can’t go wrong with one of the house favorites, grilled salmon and quinoa salad with baby spinach, quinoa, cucumber, avocado, tomato, and fresh herbs topped with preserved lemon vinaigrette. Lunch offerings include sandwiches, wraps, and healthy vegan options, like bowls such as zucchini noodles topped with corn, carrots, edamame, onion, bell pepper, tomato, cucumber, avocado, cotija cheese, and pepitas with red wine vinaigrette, and The Fresh Vegan with French lentils, saffron basmati, roasted vegetables, kale, preserved lemon, avocado, tahini sauce, and dukka. Go even more traditional with The Spaniard, overflowing with prime hanger steak, farro, avocado, zucchini, corn, tomato, and piquillo pepper with piquant romesco sauce. Or try the delicate pan-roasted branzino; hearty penne Bolognese with slow-simmered beef, veal, and pork ragu; or zesty eggplant parmesan for an authentic taste of Italy. Those seeking the perfect setting for their next party or corporate event will be graciously served in Mediterraneo’s luxurious private or semi-private dining rooms, seating 25 guests or less. Larger gatherings can spread out their cheer in their distinctive Vintage Room, featuring dramatic vaulted ceilings, a unique iron chandelier, and cozy fireplace. Guests are treated to a private entrance along a babbling creek. Inside, the reception patio offers delightful views of the lush vineyards, lake, and gardens, which would make even Van Gogh proud. Mediterraneo is open Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for lunch and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. for happy hour. Dinner is served from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday, Mediterraneo serves brunch from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and dinner from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. n Mediterraneo 32037 Agoura Rd. Westlake Village 818.889.9105 med-rest.com/reservations
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calendar. january EVERY SATURDAY, 8AM – 1PM 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. cityofcalabasas.com/farmersmarket.html.
JANUARY 11, 8PM CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE PERFORMS: THE BEATLES—ABBEY ROAD More than 40 years after the Beatles recorded their final studio album, Abbey Road, a handpicked collection of world-class musicians from Classic Albums Live have come together to per form the masterpiece in its entirety. Experience a cover-to-cover per formance of many of the most-recognized Beatles songs from this iconic album, including "Something," "Come Together," and "Here Comes the Sun." Located at Smothers Theatre, Pepperdine University, 24255 PCH, Malibu. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit arts.pepperdine.edu.
JANUARY 11 10TH ANNUAL COATS FOR CASA PACIFICA COAT DRIVE The Coats for Casa event is an effort to collect gently used winter clothes such as coats, sweaters, hoodies, mittens/gloves, winter hats, and scarves to help those in need to stay war m during the chilly months. Coats of all sizes are needed. The event benefits CASA Pacifica in Camarillo. Children and people of all ages can come play in the snow, go sledding, do crafts, and enjoy complimentary coffee and smoothies, all while supporting a worthy cause by dropping off gently used war m-clothing items. Located at Three Springs Park, 3000 Three Springs Drive in Westlake Village. For more infor mation, visit coatsforcasapacifica.com.
JANUARY 11 - JANUARY 12, 2PM BEAUTY AND THE BEAST BROADWAY MUSICAL Theatre Royale Tours presents the timeless Disney classic Beauty and the Beast, the Broadway musical.
Based
on the Academy-Award-winning animated feature, this spectacular stage production includes the beloved classics written by Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman, with additional songs by Mr. Menken and T im Rice. This fun and family-friendly musical, adapted from the original 1991 Disney film, brings to life the timeless
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1ST ANNUAL WEST VALLEY WELLNESS EXPO There was a fantastic turnout for The West Valley – Warner Center Chamber of Commerce 1st Annual West Valley Wellness Expo recently hosted in their chamber building’s community room in Woodland Hills. The community showed up for an educational day that included 40 diverse vendors, informative presentations, and
interactive
demonstrations
from
local businesses. The event, created for businesses to network together and share their benefits with the community, featured special guest Rowdy the miniature horse. Exhibitors felt the positive energy and appreciated the unconditional support from attendees. Beth Hazelton and Katherine Thomas – leaders of the Wellness Resource Network group – founded the West Valley Wellness Expo with the goal of providing wellness resources and creating excitement around health. Due to the tremendous success, the 2nd West Valley Wellness Expo will take place in early 2020. Contact Katherine@woodlandhillscc.net to get involved.
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story of a selfish and hot-tempered prince who is turned into a hideous beast and must win the affection of a beautiful, young girl in order to regain his humanity. This musical includes the classic songs “Be Our Guest,” “Gaston,” the title song “Beauty and the Beast,” and many more. Located at Fred Kavli Theatre, B of A Per forming Arts Center in Thousand Oaks. For more information, visit bapacthousandoaks.com.
JANUARY 11, 10:30AM BRANDON'S BUDDIES Brandon's Buddies is a free kids club that meets every month at Brandon's Village at Gates Canyon Park. This playground is the first fully-accessible playground in the region. The day may include integrated play, face painting, arts and crafts, entertainment, and treats. Feel free to bring a sack lunch. Located at 25801 Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Calabasas.
JANUARY 16 -19 AMERICAN THEATRE GUILD PRESENTS FINDING NEVERLAND The winner of Broadway.com’s Audience Choice Award for Best Musical, this breathtaking smash “captures the kid at heart,” says TIME Magazine. Vogue cheers, “It’s a must-see you’ll remember for years to come!” Directed by visionary Tony Award ® -winner Diane Paulus and based on the critically acclaimed Academy ® Award-winning film Finding Neverland, The musical tells the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters, Peter Pan. Located at the B of A Perfor ming Arts Center in Thousand Oaks. For more information, visit bapacthousandoaks.com.
JANUARY 25, 11AM - 2PM CALABASAS MOMMY'S FAMILY WELLNESS & GAMES CHALLENGE DAY Join Calabasas Mommy for the first family event of the year! It's time to get out and play with the entire family at the Lakes at Thousand Oaks. Enjoy family cornhole lawn games, sports, wellness demos, exhibiting partners, and more. Meet on the lawn for family yoga at 11:00 a.m. A complimentary family event.
NOW - FEBRUARY 2ND THE HOLIDAY ICE RINK AT THE LAKES Get ready to skate The Lakes this season with festive music, hot chocolate, and plenty of holiday cheer to go around. Skate rentals are available. Guests may bring their own. T ickets to the rink can be purchased onsite at the ice rink ticket window. All tickets priced at $20, including admission and skate rental. Located at 2200 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks. For more information, visit shoplakes.com/events/annual-holiday-ice-rink-2/.
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MY SALON BAE GRAND OPENING My Salon Bae celebrated its grand opening on November 7, just a few days after opening its doors on November 1. Introducing their innovative concept of a salon-studio hybrid, owner Kara Shaw and cofounders Tracy Ash and Stephanie Lewis invited clients and friends for a fabulous celebration complete with light bites and cocktails. The brand new salon creates an intimate feel with a modern-day full-service salon and is much larger than their previous space – per fect to accommodate their loyal, sizeable following. Kara, Tracy, and Stephanie are well-known hairstylists in the Calabasas community due to their amazing talent. Their clients feel right at home in the new salon location, ideally situated on Agoura Road in Calabasas. They cannot wait for the new, elevated pampering experience. To find out more, visit salonbae.com.
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JANUARY 25 CALABASAS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE INSTALLATION GALA 2020—VISION 2020 Join the Calabasas Chamber of Commerce in recognizing the outgoing board and the installation of the new board. The evening includes installation of the 2020 board of directors. Presentation of the “Spirit of Calabasas” Award and Chairman’s Award. They will be honoring the fire department for tireless efforts in protecting homes in the devastating fires throughout Southern California. Please join in celebrating our heroes. RSVP is required. Located at the Calabasas Country Club, 4515 Park Entrada, Calabasas. For more information, visit CalabasasChamber.com.
JANUARY 26, 10AM - 2PM OAK PARK NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL 11TH ANNUAL SNOWBALL WINTER CARNIVAL After a year on hiatus, the Oak Park Neighborhood School's Parent Advisory Board is happy to bring back one of the community's favorite events. The event is targeted towards children ages 2 to 10 and their families. The carnival includes carnival games, 25 tons of snow, bouncy houses, delicious food, and lots of laughs. Located at Oak Park Neighborhood School Play Yard, 1010 Kanan Road, Oak Park. For more information, visit opnssnowball.wixsite.com/website/event-info/oak-park-neighborhood-school-11th-annual-snowball-winter-carnival.
february FEBRUARY 4, 4PM - 6PM YAPPY HOUR @ MALIBU LUMBER YARD Bring your pup to the Malibu Lumber Yard for a special twist on happy hour, along with some special treats from Just Food for Dogs and a chance to meet some new four-legged friends. We'll have complimentary sips, light bites, and beachy tunes from our summer playlist for the humans. Meet in front of James
14TH ANNUAL TEE IT UP FOR THE TROOPS CELEBRITY INVITATIONAL November 11, 2019, marked the 14th Annual Tee It Up Celebrity Invitational golf tournament benefitting Folds of Honor. Hosted at
Perse at 3:30 p.m. if you want to join in on a brisk walk around Legacy Park prior to Yappy Hour. Located at Malibu Lumber Yard Center Courtyard, 3939 Cross Creek Road, Malibu. For more information, visit themalibulumberyard.com.
supporting sponsors, and avid golfers were treated to a fun-filled
FEBRUARY 6, 7:30PM CIRQUE FLIP FABRIQUE
game of golf while raising money for a worthy cause supporting
A troupe of professional circus artists at the peak of their
military families – fittingly on Veterans Day. There were numerous
talents explores the awe and beauty of winter with its new
tributes including a color guard performance as men and wom-
show, BLIZZARD. Cirque FLIP Fabrique brings audiences on a
en who served in the military were honored. Fallen soldiers, espe-
crazy, fun, poetic, and tender journey through winter and in-
cially those who left their families without mothers, fathers, sons, or
vites them to get lost in a moment of white wonder – a thrill-
daughters, were also honored with a special memorial. Since 2007,
ing spectacle and breathtaking visual poetry. "After watching
Folds of Honor has provided educational scholarships to the spous-
them perform, you may suspect that they hail from a differ-
es and children of America’s fallen and disabled service-members.
ent planet,” says the New York Times. Located at Smothers
For more information on next year’s tournament, visit ltglshow.com.
Theatre, Pepperdine University, 24255 PCH, Malibu. For more
To learn more about Folds of Honor, visit foldsofhonor.org.
information or to purchase tickets, visit arts.pepperdine.edu.
Wood Ranch Golf Course in Simi Valley, a variety of celebrities,
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22ND CALABASAS MAYOR’S STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS Mayor David J. Shapiro presented the 22nd Annual Calabasas Mayor’s State of the City Address on November 7 at the Calabasas High School Performing Arts Education Center. During his speech, the mayor reviewed the city’s accomplishments from the past year and outlined goals for the future. Mayor Shapiro praised the residents and city officials for weathering the challenges of the 2018 Woolsey fire. The theme of his speech was that Calabasas is resilient and caring. Shapiro commended the city for the steps it has taken to protect the environment and public health. Richard Sherman, president of the Calabasas Park Homeowners Association, was named Citizen of the Year. Rudy Schreiner, cofounder of AmaWaterways, was recognized as Business of the Year. In looking to the future, Mayor Shapiro said the city council is investigating cell-service improvements. The city also intends to address homelessness. Photography by Richard Cassel.
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FEBRUARY 12, 8AM CONNECTIONS BREAKFAST AT PARADISE COVE BEACH CAFE Come one, come all and mix and mingle by the waves. Meet other business professionals, talk about your business, and enjoy a truly delicious old-fashioned breakfast while you hear a presentation. Bring your business cards and be prepared to speak for a couple of minutes. Located at Paradise Cove Beach Cafe, 28128 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu. For more information, contact Barbara Bruderlin at 310.456.9025.
FEBRUARY 22, 8AM WESTLAKE VILLAGE PANCREATIC CANCER RESEARCH WALK/RUN 10K/5K The 10K starts at 8:00 a.m. The 5K starts at 9:30 a.m. And the 1K Kids Fun Run is at 10:30 a.m. Family-friendly community expo with food and drinks, live music, and a kids’ corner. Price is $35 pre-registration and $40 day-of registration. One fee of $50 total if running both the 5K and 10K. Must pre-register. Located at Westlake Village City Hall, 31200 Oak Crest Drive, Westlake Village. For more information or to register, visit events.lustgarten.org/event/2020-westlake-village-pancreatic-cancer-research-walk/e248773.
FEBRUARY 29, 10AM - 3PM CALABASAS MOMMY’S LEAP FAMILY DAY 2020 Health, education, family games, wellness, and more. Let's LEAP into the future this Leap Day with a fun family theme starting off with the "what I want to be when I grow up" costume grand entrance for the younger kids 7 and younger. Featuring exhibiting partners, family games, craft stations, and more. A complimentary family event located at The Lakes in Thousand Oaks.
SAVE THE DATE MARCH 14, 8:30AM CALABASAS SHAMROCK SHUFFLE Register today for the Calabasas Shamrock Shuffle 5K & Fun
SANTA'S VILLAGE HOLIDAY KICK-OFF AT THE PROMENADE AT WESTLAKE
Run. Be one of the first 150 participants to register for the 5K
The Promenade at Westlake kicked off the holiday season and
celebrate St. Patrick’s Day the Calabasas way. Located at
opening of Santa’s Village with its annual Christmas Tree Lighting on
27040 Malibu Hills Road, Calabasas. For more information,
November 16. A spirited performance by musician Dani Moz and
visit ahccc.org. To sign up, visit runsignup.com/Race/CA/
dancers Aidan Prince, Emma Sherman, Dassy Lee, Sophia Lavonne,
Calabasas/CalabasasShamrockShuffle.
Madeline Riley, and Marie Poppins and children from the Innovation
and receive a commemorative Irish Pub Glass. 5K participants may join the Fun Run at no fee. Bring the family and
Coy and Bryce Hager of the L.A. Rams also made special appearanc-
MARCH 14, 11AM - 3PM ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION
es. The evening culminated with the arrival of Santa Claus followed
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the Agoura Hills/Calabasas
by real falling snow and the lighting of the 65-foot-tall Christmas tree.
Community Center. Enjoy live Irish music, kids’ inflatables,
The festive season continued after the tree lighting with Santa official-
carnival games, face painting, Irish step dancers, a beer
ly beginning his Westlake Village residency, where he stayed through
garden, and much more. Located at 27040 Malibu Hills
December 24. Guests enjoyed a magical experience at Santa’s
Road, Calabasas. For more information, visit ahccc.org.
Dance Center of Performing Arts opened the show. Mayor Rob Mc-
House, including live entertainment, holiday treats, and photos perfect for emailing and sharing on social media. For more information about the center, visit shoppromenade.com.
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Send in any calendar submissions three months in advance to: calabasasstylecalendar@gmail.com.
10TH ANNUAL TASTE OF CONEJO The 10th Annual Taste of Conejo presented by the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce returned on Friday, October 11, after last year’s respite to the Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village. Food and wine enthusiasts enjoyed an all-inclusive evening of food, wine, beer, and spirit tastings from over 60 local restaurants, breweries, and wineries. New local establishments participating in this year’s event included craft cocktail bar Oak & Iron, recently opened Social Monk Asian Kitchen of Westlake Village, Made in Italy by Chef Antonio Sessa, and 101 North Eatery & Bar at The Shoppes at Westlake. Once guests collected their wine and tasting glasses, they were greeted with martini tastings via an ice luge from Partysserie. In the center of the Grand Ballroom, bartenders from The Flair Project of Santa Barbara handcrafted cocktails while entertaining guests throughout the evening. For more information, visit tasteofconejo.com.
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Wine & Dine DELICATESSEN
STEAKHOUSE
BRENT’S DELI 2799 Townsgate Rd., Westlake Village 805.557.1882 | brentsdeli.com for additional location
MASTRO’S STEAKHOUSE & OCEAN CLUB 2087 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks | 805.418.1811 18412 PCH, Malibu | 310.454.4357 | mastrosrestaurants.com
Consistently voted as one of the best delicatessens in Los Angeles and Southern California, Brent’s Deli offers delicious deli fare from small plates to complete catering!
Mastro’s Steakhouse offers a menu of the best prime steaks and premium fresh seafood, served in a sophisticated, classic atmosphere. The result is a truly unparalleled dining experience.
STEAKHOUSE
NEW AMERICAN
MORTON’S THE STEAKHOUSE 6250 Canoga Ave., Woodland Hills 818.703.7272 | mortons.com/woodlandhills
PEARL DISTRICT 2982 Westlake Blvd., #8, Westlake Village | 805.230.9944 14015 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks | 818.301.3700 pearldistrictrestaurant.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.
Offering an upscale International menu, they have been declared a must-try by local foodies - a true culinary gem.
CHARCUTERIE MEAT-UP
EUROPEAN BISTRO
THE STONEHAUS 32039 Agoura Rd., Westlake Village 818.483.1152 | the-stonehaus.com
MEDITERRANEO 32037 Agoura Rd., Westlake Village 818.889.9105 | med-rest.com
This venue is the area’s most popular “meeting place” where guests can relax over coffee or wine– New menu with healthy breakfast, lunch, and dinner items. On the grounds of the Westlake Village Inn.
Mediterraneo is a top Zagat-rated restaurant and bar serving fresh, European-style cuisine with unparalleled quality and value. Located on the grounds of the beautiful Westlake Village Inn.
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Feel Like
Royalty
at
Monarch Beach Resort By Lori Berezin
Monarch Bay’s rolling hills, fragrant with sagebrush and Manzanita, were once a breeding ground for the regal monarch butterfly. Today, one of the area’s most prominent playgrounds, Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point makes guests feel like royalty. Overlooking the spectacular Pacific Ocean, this AAA Five-Diamond award-winning resort boasts a range of sensational activities from rejuvenating spa treatments to golfing on one of Southern California’s most scenic courses. Treat yourself to a round of golf on the 18-hole championship course, award-winning Monarch Beach Golf Links, before filling up on a few courses at the incredible Bourbon Steak, named the #1 restaurant in 2018 and #2 in 2019 in Orange County (Orange County Register). Start with a few of their succulent seafood selections, such as Pacific Coast Oysters or half Maine Lobster Dijonnaise. Then add one of Bourbon Steak’s tender, dry-aged steaks for the perfect duet that will keep your taste buds singing. Tempting sides, such as Black Truffle Mac & Cheese, Mirin & Soy-Glazed Mushrooms, and Whipped Potato Puree are also decadently delicious. Pair your meal with a unique cocktail—such as the Bee’s Knees with Beefeater gin or the Del Maguey Vida mezcal, cinnamon honey, and more—or wine from their extensive collection for a meal to remember. Work off the calories the next day engaging in stimulating water sports or a swim at the newly renovated and private Monarch Bay Beach Club, open only to
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resort guests and members. Treat yourself to a 30-minute No Fail Surf Lesson to catch both the perfect wave and vacation photo. Or get a lesson in kayaking or boogie boarding for the ultimate SoCal beach-going experience. View the perfect sunset from the Beach Lawn, replete with happy hour specials and cocktails, such as the Catalina Sunset and Pink Skies Ahead. They offer classic seafood and California fare plus a children’s menu with lots of favorites. You can also dine al fresco at the resort’s AVEO Table + Bar for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The seasonal menu fuses Mediterranean dishes with healthy California cuisine. Even the cocktails feature a “Farm-to-Bar” approach, showcasing fresh, local ingredients. Those seeking a sense of calm can visit the resort’s renowned Miraval Life in Balance Spa. From rejuvenating spa treatments to stress-relieving fitness classes, Miraval offers the ideal sanctuary from our hectic lives. Energize with an aerobics class in Family Cardio Drumming or Cardio Dance. Relax with a Thai or deep-tissue massage, incorporating such California-inspired elements as crystal salt stones, algae, and marine mud. The sports massage also helps relax tired muscles after stimulating fitness classes or golf. Indulge body and soul with a sea-salt-and-oil scrub or therapeutic facial or scalp massage with a mask infused with apricot-kernel oil and watercress for a deliciously blissful, soothing experience. At night, retreat to your spacious room to unwind, soak in your elegant marble bathroom’s deep bathtub or rainfall shower, and silently dream about your delightful days amid the sparkling shores of Dana Point’s luxurious Monarch Beach Resort. n Monarch Beach Resort One Monarch Beach Resort Dana Point 800.722.1543/949.234.3900 monarchbeachresort.com
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WHAT’S NEW IN
Real Estate I will forever believe that buying a home is a great investment. Why? Because you can’t live in a stock certificate. You can’t live in a mutual fund. — Oprah Winfrey, media mogul
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RECENT SALES* Address
Neighborhood
Sq. ft.
List Price
Sales Price
26626 Country Creek Lane
Country Creek Estates
2,115
$870,000
$864,000
26620 Country Creek Lane
Country Creek Estates
2,115
$885,000
$900,000
22673 Jameson
Mulwood
2,449
$1,049,000
$970,000
22651 Jameson
Mulwood
2,700
$1,100,000
$1,075,000
4150 Towhee
Mulwood
2,739
$1,170,000
$1,160,000
4223 Meadow Lark
Mulwood
2,262
$1,190,000
$1,170,000
3835 Eddingham
Mulwood
2,899
$1,299,000
$1,265,000
22239 Via Leonardo
Mulholland Heights
3,526
$1,549,000
$1,490,000
3945 Park Belmonte
Classic Calabasas
4,386
$1,595,000
$1,435,000
4515 Park Livorno
Classic Calabasas
2,827
$1,599,000
$1,550,000
4356 Park Monte Nord
Bellagio
3,663
$1,550,000
$1,464,000
24718 Hermosilla
Vista Pointe
2,871
$1,649,000
$1,625,000
3814 Park Oeste
The Ridge
4,028
$2,150,000
$2,100,000
3838 Paseo Primario
Calabasas Park Estates
3,958
$2,199,000
$2,200,000
26740 Mont Calabasas
Mont Calabasas
5,147
$2,195,000
$2,050,000
25935 Wellington
Mountain View Estates
4,740
$2,375,000
$2,375,000
5441 Newcastle
Mountain View Estates
7,078
$2,699,000
$2,525,000
5425 Collingwood
Mountain View Estates
7,239
$2,699,000
$2,600,000
3970 Prado Del Trigo
The Oaks
3,710
$2,425,000
$2,350,000
3955 Prado De Las Frutas
The Oaks
4,474
$2,599,000
$2,580,000
4166 Prado De La Puma
The Oaks
4,544
$2,749,000
$2,685,000
4197 Prado De La Puma
The Oaks
5,028
$3,395,000
$3,150,000
24906 Jim Bridger
Hidden Hills
3,307
$2,149,000
$3,200,000
*Sales represent closed transactions between 11/5/2019-12/5/2019 (Standard Sales only)
Information based on information from the CRIS-Net Regional FT MLS as of 10/1/17. Display of MLS data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS. The Broker/Agent providing the information contained herein may or may not have been Listing and/or Selling Agent. CALBRE#01491245 Š2020 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HoneServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 192 Calabasas Style symbol are registered service marks of HomeServeces of America, Inc.Ž Equal Housing Opportunity.
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Over $20M in 4th Quarter Sales! JUST LISTED
SOLD
25580 Prado De Oro | Calabasas
SOLD
3970 Prado del Trigo | Calabasas
SOLD
6056 Grey Rock Rd. | Agoura Hills
SOLD
SOLD
19480 Greenbriar Dr. | Tarzana
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4855 Don Juan Pl. | Woodland Hills
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4501 Park Verona | Calabasas
alabasas tyleand operated This 1s not meant as a sol1c1tation 1f your property 1s currently listed 1Mth another broker Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the Each office 1s independently owned condrtion or features of property provided by seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer 1s advised to independently venfy the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and 1Mth appropnate professionals
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