Conejo Valley March 2016

Conejo Valley MARCH 2016

ConejoValleyLifestylePubs.com

L

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For the

LOVE of Pets

CONEJO’S CAT LADY CANINE HEROES HOME FULL OF HEART BLANKETS OF LOVE

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Lifestyle Letter

For Our Best Friend T

his issue is dedicated to pet lovers and their pets. You may notice we do not use the word “owners.” Whether you have a cat, a dog or one of God’s creatures somewhat more exotic in your home, they quickly become part of your family, not property. In fact, if you happen to be empty nesters, they become your babies, your children.

As we were preparing ourselves for this issue we were going to feature the goings on of our wonderful cat Tux. Suddenly and unexpectedly we lost a member of our family. Tuxie died of a sudden heart attack. He was enjoying playing with Robin and one of his cat toys and just like that he was gone. So, this issue is also dedicated to him. Rest in peace big guy, Tux the Cat, 2005-2016.

Pet lovers tend to humanize the emotions and connections of their cats and dogs. The fact is these innocent creatures do become part of your family because they show genuine love, affection and dependence. He was, as Robin always said, her furry son.

It all started out when we rescued Tux and his litter mates from the wild. At first we even had to bottle feed the kittens. Talk about bonding!! Very quickly, Tuxie became our best friend. His little routines became a daily part of our lives. His Krazy Kat (that’s a reference to a very old comic strip) sense of humor was hilarious. He teased crotchety Emma the Cat, whenever she visited, like a naughty little brother. With his rugged tall, dark and handsome good looks he “coulda been in pictures." He was the Clark Gable of the cat world. But most of all, every day, just being Tuxie with us, will always and forever be cherished. Robin was his adoptive mommy. He was my hangout buddy. We were part of his little feline pride. We will always miss him.

Please remember that we rescued Tuxie. He and his litter mates were born in our backyard. Most certainly they would not have otherwise lived very long. Instead all four kittens were adopted into loving families. In this issue you learn about the wonderful mission and success of Operation Blankets of Love in helping animals in shelters be more comfortable and as a result of that comfort, more adoptable. They save lives. So can you. There are thousands of dogs and cats housed in shelters and in foster homes in desperate need of adoption into a loving family. You have much to offer. So do they. Be there for them.

Our best to you and Ziggy the dog and Skippy the cat and all of your furry friends.

MARCH 2016 publisher

Ben Malkin | Ben.Malkin@LifestylePubs.com Robin Chesler | Robin.Chesler@LifestylePubs.com editor

Tracy Marcynzsyn | Tracy.Marcynzsyn@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers

Kim Henderson, Ben Malkin, Tracy Marcynzsyn, Rocky Mills, Sharon Norling, MD; Kim Pagano, Ken Phillips contributing photographers

Susan Bollnger, Kim Henderson, Jerry Jennings, Jason Kelley Love on a Leash, Serenity Nichols, Carol Olson, Maura Kimock

CORPORATE TEAM | Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

| Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

| Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor

ART DIRECTOR EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS

| DeLand Shore

| Nicole Sylvester

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Kim Foster, Megan Seymour

LAYOUT DESIGNER DESIGN SPECIALIST

| Nicolette Martin | Ashleigh Thomson

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPER

| Melanie Carlisle | Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park

Ben Malkin, Publisher Ben.Malkin@LifestylePubs.com

by Community ™

Robin Chesler, Publisher Robin.Chesler@LifestylePubs.com

ConejoValleyLifestylePubs.com JOIN US

ON THE COVER Furry friends increase well-being and improve quality of life.

4

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

TALK TO US

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Conejo Valley Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Conejo Valley’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Conejo Valley Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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March 2016

26

18 Creature Comfort

Donated blankets increase well-being and adoption rates

24 Building a Legacy

Departments 8

Good Times

12

Around Town

14

Now Open

18

Giving Back

22

City Scene

38

Healthy Lifestyle

40

Financial Buzz

42

Open House

44

Lifestyle Calendar

50

Parting Thoughts

Creating community at Golden Heart Ranch

26 Feline Friend

Beloved volunteer serves for the love of cats

30 From Rescued to Rescuer

Local nonprofit trains national disaster search dogs

18

24

30

Lifestyle Publications Arizona | California | Colorado | Florida | Georgia | Idaho | Illinois | Kansas | Missouri | Montana | Ohio | Oklahoma | Texas | Utah

Coldwell Banker Estates Director

Whether you are looking to sell your current home or buying a new home; you want the Best in the Business Recognition

Rosemary Allison, Estates Director, Coldwell Banker Previews International is one of the country’s most successful Realtors. Rosemary has set the standard for excellence throughout her career and is truly a legend. Her vision and reputation as a trend-setter in the science of marketing Ventura Counties finest estates, established her as the most innovative leader in Ventura County real estate. Rosemary’s dedication to this community and strong work ethic have earned her a reputation as one of the most trusted and admired real estate professionals. Rosemary’s numerous honors and accolades include recognition in the Wall Street Journal as one of the top selling 250 agents in the USA.

Dedication to community

Rosemary has dedicated decades of public service to the people of Ventura County. From championing the installation of new synchronized signals that slowed traffic and allowed pedestrians and equestrians to navigate safely to establishing a local Neighborhood Watch program, and her area Community Emergency Response Team.

Rosemary Allison is well known for her hard work and generosity including Chairing the most successful American Cancer Galas in Ventura County. As quoted in a resolution presented when she was recognized in 2010 as Ventura County Volunteer of the Year: “Rosemary Allison is the yarn that weaves this close knit community together, setting an example for residents of all ages on how a committed individual can work to change the world for the better. Rosemary Allison has been recognized for her exemplary community volunteer work over the years”. Since 2003, in addition to her busy career, she has served as an elected Councilwoman on the Municipal Advisory Council.

All in the family

Jim, a real estate attorney, is an esteemed member of the California Association of Realtors Legal Affairs forum. Jim’s awareness of the current laws and legislation assures Rosemary’s clients that they have the security of knowing that their contract has been carefully reviewed to avoid many of the problems facing sellers today. Their children, Jennifer, Joe and Cristina all are licensed agents who have become part of Rosemary’s support team. They’re experts in the details and subtleties that define multi-million-dollar negotiations. They possess a passion for fine architecture, and an intimate, lot-level knowledge of Ventura County. They innately understand the finer points of caring for clients with high net worth, and even higher expectations.

Experience

Marketing know-how and over 30 years of experience have established Rosemary as the leader in the Ventura County Real Estate Market. Rosemary masterfully unites sellers of the finest homes in Ventura County with quality buyers from across the globe. Call Rosemary today to discuss selling your home in 2016 Why take a chance with anyone else?

Call Rosemary at 805.491.2100 or text her at 805.479.7653.

Email her at RosemaryAllison@aol.com or get more information on the web at callrosemary.com

©2015 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International® and the Coldwell Banker Previews International Logo, are registered service marks owned

by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. CalBRE Lic # 00545184.

Good Times

What a Difference a Dog Makes!

Love On A Leash Therapy Dogs visit hospitals, convalescent homes, schools and more. Camarillo Library's “PAWS For Reading” program teaches children to love books and reading, attracting some eight dogs and 20 readers per session.

8

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

Thousand Oaks Auto Mall

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Subaru Outback TOP SAFETY PICK+ Best Midsize Utility Best in Snow

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Good Times

Cabrillo Music Theatre Spotlights Furry Friends

With the goal of completing families, Cabrillo Music Theatre invites local rescue organizations to offer adoptions at selected shows at the Civic Arts Plaza. Look for pet adoption opportunities during The Little Mermaid July 15-24.

LOVE | LOYALTY | LUXURY Day Camp • Overnights • Wellness Community Boarding School Training Program • Grooming

PUPPY & KITTEN

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Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

818.889.7387

Thousand Oaks Auto Mall

www.ladinsubaru.com 805-495-2193

2016 Hyundai Genesis 5.0 Ultimate

Family owned and operated for over 40 years

Around Town

AROUND TOWN

FAMILY FUN

RIDE ON

Celebrate National Nutrition Month at the Bay Club, where mem-

Make your reservations now for the Thousand Oaks Woman’s Club

bers enjoy events all month. Featuring Wine Down Wednesday,

Annual Charity Luncheon Friday April 22 at the Los Robles Greens

Family Basketball, Healthy Family Day and the Pure Energy Café, the

Golf Course Sunset Room in Thousand Oaks.

Bay Club offers something for the whole family. Remember, the family

Proceeds benefit Ride On, an organization that teaches adaptive

that plays together stays healthy together!! Visit the Bay Club at 2400

horseback riding to children and adults with physical and cognitive

Willow Lane in Thousand Oaks to experience the fun. BayClubs.com

disabilities in our community. More than 5,000 riders are provided

SAVE THE DATE!

Cabrillo Music Theatre's Children Of Eden premieres in the Conejo Valley this April, with showtimes April 8-17. This delightful new show, based on the stories of Adam and Eve and Noah and the Ark, is

lessons each year by this premier accredited riding center in partnership with the Conejo Recreation and Park District. For further information and reservations, call 805.529.5127.

RARE ARTIFACTS ON DISPLAY

actually the story of parents and children... of knowing when to hold

Cal Lutheran's William Rolland Gallery of Fine Art is a hidden gem

on tightly to family... and when to let go. With music and lyrics by

on the Cal Lutheran campus. On exhibit March 3-April 7, current

Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin, Godspell and more) and script by

Ellsworth La Boyteaux Collection of New Guinea Artifacts has not

John Caird (co-director of Les Miserables), Children Of Eden fills the

been exhibited for decades. The exhibition includes Abelam ances-

stage with beautiful music, story, dance, humor and imagery. Don't

tral spirit figures (nggwalndu) and Kwona bark paintings, along with

miss this one! CabrilloMusicTheatre.com

other sculpture, masks, a canoe prow, items of personal adornment

and utilitarian objects. Pieces on display come from the Abelam region of Papua New Guinea in the Prince Alexander Mountains and the surrounding area.

The collection is noteworthy for both quality and breadth. Held by the Pearson Library, it contains more than 150 objects collected in the early to mid-1960s from various groups in the East and West Sepik provinces. Unlike other collections whose pieces show significant revision by artists after removal from the field, this collection has been largely untouched. A reception will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, March 11. Admission is free. Located in the William Rolland Stadium,

GET YOUR ART ON Visit the website to get a sneak peek of the artwork on display at the Studio Channel Islands Art Center Collectors Choice Fundraising Event,

the gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. CalLutheran.edu

FASHIONS ON PARADE “A WALK IN THE PARK”

Saturday, March 12. Tap into your inner art critic and vote for your favorite

The Westlake Women’s Club will host its Annual Fashion Show

piece online or during the first 30 minutes of the event. Once you arrive

Luncheon Friday, April 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Hyatt Westlake

at the event, be sure to rank your favorites. The art literally flies off the

Plaza Hotel, 880 S. Westlake Blvd.

walls! The last three people selecting artwork will receive a special sur-

The event will feature the newest colors and styles for spring

prise! All proceeds benefit Studio Channel Islands, a 501c(3) nonprofit

and summer. Boutique shopping, door prizes, silent auction, money

organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the visual arts in the

wreaths and a delicious gourmet lunch round out the day. The

community, providing unique and diverse artistic encounters for all ages

Westlake Women’s Club is a volunteer, nonprofit organization com-

as well as fostering connections between artists, collectors and visitors.

prised of dedicated and dynamic women who encourage a spirit of

This year’s exhibition features emerging talent and nationally exhibited and

goodwill and betterment of Conejo Valley. Come enjoy an afternoon

award-winning artists. Tickets are limited. SCICollectorschoice.com

of fun and new friends! For reservations, call 818.991.2790.

12

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

Inspiring Dynamic Kids To Grow...

Spring Break Camp Ages 3-5yrs & 6-14yrs

3/25/16 - 4/1/16

Design your own schedule of attendance without commitment.

You will love our day-to-day options: Full & Half Day Options Available Daily 9am - 3pm

MonarX Parkour Camp Daily Ongoing Classes Happening Now! Schedule A Class Today...

Monarchs Gym

5331 Derry Ave Ste “H” Agoura Hills, 91301

12:30-3:30pm

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Kinder Gym

818.889.3634

Cheer & Tumbling

MonarX Parkour

5331 Derry Ave Ste “I” Agoura Hills, 91301

818.889.6326

Happy Kidz Enrichment Center

Girls & Boys Gymnastics

5331 Derry Ave Ste “C” Agoura Hills, 91301

818.889.3634

Monarchs Gym

3599 Old Conejo Road Newbury Park, 91320

805.375.4663

www.monarchsgym.com

Birthdays

Parkour Freerunning Active

#dynamickids

Now Open

SPORTS ACADEMY WHERE VISION MEETS REALITY ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

A

new world-class multi-disciplinary sports training and development campus has recently opened in Thousand Oaks.

The 96,000-square-foot Sports Academy will host competitions, leagues, camps, clinics, and offer specialized programs to meet every athlete's needs. Professional to amateur athletes, passionate sportspeople, senior citizens, moms and youth all receive the highest quality training of a caliber typically reserved for the elite athlete.

“We believe in individual excellence and elevating human character. We will facilitate and lead an athlete through their development process, forging their character with positivity and resilience to effectively lead themselves and others to achieve their highest goals,” states CEO Chad Faulkner.

Sports Academy’s comprehensive approach to athletic and human development encompasses mind, body and spirit through its integrated Centers of Excellence. The Sports Academy team is enriched by the expertise of prominent local coaches and athletes, including Hall of Fame coach Bill Reddell, AJ Moye, Erikka Gulbranson, Tim Penprase, Julie Bennett, Jenny Kenyon and Marcio Sicoli, an Olympic gold medal-winning beach volleyball coach.

STEP INSIDE

The first thing that captures the attention at Sports Academy is its floor space. The campus includes five basketball/volleyball convertible courts, a 7,500-square-foot sand pit for beach volleyball, sand soccer and multiple training purposes, and a 5,000-square-foot turf zone for personalized skills training in football, lacrosse, baseball/ softball, futsal and soccer.

“We will empower athletes of all ages and abilities with Full Circle development,” affirms Sports Academy Director of Athletics Tim Jensen. “To us, everyone who walks through our doors is an athlete and deserves the best of our highly acclaimed coaches, trainers and practitioners.”

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

The Integrated Sports Medicine Center, led by Dr. Beau Daniels, includes medical doctors, nurses, chiropractors, nutritionists, a holistic medical specialist, and massage and physical therapy. A biomechanics lab features a 24 camera marker-less system to assess physical performance and guide training protocols to help athletes reach their goals with individualized injury prevention training plans.

Mindset Development is led by Kathryn Scardino, M.Ed., and Devin Markle, M.Ed., both formally trained in sport psychology.

Technologies utilized train athletes to focus, increase reaction times, expand peripheral vision and manage heart rate under duress. Through sports science technologies, the Center performs concussion protocol testing to determine if an athlete is cleared to return to play.

Nate Borunda, the NFL and NBA go-to guy for speed and agility training for pre-combine athletes, leads the Sports Performance Center. Nate is also renowned among Conejo Valley high school and middle school athletes for his proven training methodology. The Center has a 60-yard turf track equipped with electronic precision timing for speed/agility drills and the training room includes stateof-the-art equipment. For track athletes, there is a 30-meter Mondo track with hurdles and blocks for developing proper running form CONTINUED >

14

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

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and optimizing specific skills in sprinting, hurdling and jumping.

Dieter’s Close Quarters Defense® (CQD®), a personal protection and empowerment training program, is an exclusive offering of Sports Academy. CQD® is the only validated and continuously used self-defense skills utilized by U.S. Navy SEAL teams for 25-plus years. Sports Academy’s CQD® is led by retired Navy SEAL and State Department CQD® lead instructor Angel Naves. CQD® training will teach personal protection defense skills, decision-making under duress and stress management, resulting in empowerment and self-confidence. Specialized programs are adaptable for all ages and organizations.

Sports Academy's dynamic Learning Center led by Dr. Kellye McKinna offers individualized tutoring, specialized services for those with learning differences, test prep for PSAT, SAT, ACT and aptitude testing for professional athletes and home schoolers. Committed staff can guide students through the college application process and a dedicated recruiting coordinator assists families with athletes being recruited for college athletics.

Sports Academy Foundation, led by 1984 U.S. Women’s Amateur Golf Champion and 20-year LPGA tour veteran Deb Richard, is committed to delivering intentional programs for social change. Programs target military veterans, physically disabled, individuals with learning differences, abuse survivors and people committed to winning in life despite facing significant economic barriers.

An exceptional experience would not be complete for athletes or parents (and sporting event fans) without wholesome foods to nourish the body. Farm & Flame runs the Courtside Café and offers organic farm fresh selections to complement its legendary Texas barbecue prepared in a custom 5,000lb. smoker. Delicious juices and smoothies are also available. From athletics to nutrition, Sports Academy offers a true Full Circle experience.

Sports Academy is located at 1011 Rancho Conejo Blvd. Email info@sportsacademy.us or visit SportsAcademy.us to learn more.

16

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

Giving Back

Operation

Blankets of Love

COMFORTING ANIMALS WITH CARE ARTICLE BEN MALKIN

I

You can help save the lives of homeless animals today!

The following locations collect OBL donations: 3835 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., #F PETCO

Westlake Village, CA 805.449.1504

HEALTHY PET

67 N. Reino Rd Newbury Park, CA 91320

PET LIFE

805.498.7600

251 W. Los Angeles Ave. Moorpark, CA 805.531.9831

HEALTHY PET

1775 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd.

Thousand Oaks, CA

PROTEIN FOR PETS

805.494.3524

712 N. Moorpark Rd. Thousand Oaks, CA 805.371.4933

LA PET MEMORIAL PARK

5058 Old Scandia Lane

Â

Calabasas, CA 818.591.7037 (call ahead)

n 2003, Eileen and Brad Smulson adopted a 4-month-old poodle terrier mix named Ginger from a rescue group. Ginger is doing great and still acts like a pup. Five years later during a cold windy day in January, Eileen went with a friend to a newly built multimillion dollar shelter and saw dogs shivering on the cement floor.

Eileen couldn't picture Ginger lying frightened and sad on a cold, hard, cement shelter floor. She wanted to make sure every homeless animal had warmth and comfort by having a blanket to snuggle in while they awaited adoption into a forever home.

This epiphany inspired her to create the nonprofit Operation Blankets of Love (OBOL).

Fortunately, Eileen had extensive experience with nonprofits and special events. She wanted to use her knowledge and skills to help save shelter animals. While she knew nothing about the animal rescue world, she set out to learn about animal welfare and how to reach out to the animal lovers who cared enough to help her in her mission. She also learned that 4 to 5 million shelter animals get euthanized annually because of shelter overpopulation. Animal rescues are also strapped for cash and unable to provide essential supplies.

Eileen resolved to spread the word about the animals' suffering and shed light on the fact that shelters have no budget for bedding or any other kind of comfort. She had learned and wanted to let the public know that studies show and experts agree that providing shelter animals with blankets and comfort items helps to calm them. When animals feel safe, secure, warm and comfortable, they are happier and this increases their chance for adoption.

OBOL’s mission is to improve the well-being of homeless animals and increase chances for survival and adoption by providing donated recycled and new comfort items to homeless animals housed in shelters.

Eileen handles the management, fundraising and outreach of the OBOL nonprofit, while her husband of 28 years, Brad, runs the operations of OBOL and makes certain sufficient supplies are ready to CONTINUED >

18

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

Advanced Care in Pain Management

What is Pain Management?

Pain management, or pain medicine, is a growing medical specialty dedicated to treating acute, subacute, and chronic pain.

The goal of pain medicine is to improve quality of life and help patients return to everyday activities, hopefully without requiring surgery.

CONEJO PAIN SPECIALISTS,INC.

Conejo Pain Specialists treats patients with many types of pain including: • • • • •

Neck Pain/Back Pain Headaches Due to Neck Injury Neuropathic Pain/CRPS Disc Herniation/Facet Injury Post Laminectomy Syndrome

Kamyar Assil, MD Medical Director

• Board certified in Anesthesiology and subspecialty of pain management (fellowship trained in pain management).

• Senior instructor/lecturer for International Spine Interventional Society. Has taught courses on spine injections for 10 years.

3366 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., 2nd Floor Thousand Oaks, California 91360

(805) 497-8616 www.ConejoPainMD.com

• Guest lecturer for USC’s pain program and volunteer instructor for the prestigious Spine Intervention Society (SIS).

• 20 years of clinical experience in pain management.

Giving Back

(CON TI N UED)

Local Resources for Pets ADOPTION AND RESCUE

Agoura Animal Care Center, 818.991.0071 C.A.R.L (Canine Adoption and Rescue League), 805.644.PETS (7387)

EXPERIENCE OUR AWARD WINNING WINES WITH A 2 FOR 1 TASTING ON YOUR FIRST VISIT!

FFGRR (Forever Friends Golden Retriever Rescue), 805.222.6059 Fido Fitness, 818.271.9990 L.I.F.E. (Living Is for Everyone) Animal Rescue, 818.707.2007 Paw Hills, 818.889.PETS (7387) Paw Works, 805.852.1744 Pets to Vets, 310.575.1985 S.A.F.E (Saving Animals From Euthanasia), safeanimalrescue@aol.com Spunky's Rescue Ranch, 818.874.9488 BOARDING & DAY CARE

Camp Bow Wow, 818.889.2267 Fido Fitness, 818.271.9990 Paw Hills, 818.889.PETS (7387) DONATIONS/THRIFT STORE

Operation Blankets of Love, 818.402.6586 Spay/Neuter Animal Network (SPAN), 805.641.1170 GROOMING

Paw Hills, 818.889.PETS (7387) OBEDIENCE TRAINING

Paw Hills, 818.889.PETS (7387) PET THERAPY

Love on a Leash, PleasantValleyLOAL.org SPAY & NEUTER SERVICES

law offices of

raymond stuehrmann 100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd, #231 Thousand Oaks, California 91360 (805) 230-1288

FRIENDLY, PERSONAL SERVICE • LONG-TIME AREA RESIDENT FOCUSED ON PERSONAL ATTENTION TO YOUR NEEDS, BASED ON FAMILY, LONG-TERM GOALS, PARTICULAR NEEDS EXPERIENCED IN NOT ONLY TRADITIONAL TRUSTS AND WILLS, BUT ALSO WITH PROBATE, CONSERVATORSHIP, AND ISSUES IN TRUST ADMINISTRATION

FREE HALF-HOUR INITIAL CONSULTATION

Valley Vet Non-Profit Spay and Neuter Clinic, 805.584.3823 STRAY OR FERAL CAT ASSISTANCE

Valley Vet Non-Profit Spay and Neuter Clinic, 805.584.3823

donate to the more than one thousand animals they help each month.

Starting with three donation drop offs, OBOL has grown to include more than 60. Many of the drop-off locations are in Ventura County.

Since its inception, OBOL has collected over 4 million items, from new and gently used blankets and towels to every type of pet item: food, treats, beds, toys, shampoos, vitamins, flea meds, harnesses, collars, leashes, clothes, dog igloos, cat trees, crates and more.

OBOL also teaches Humane Learning Education Programs to schools and youth groups. Their Anti-Cruelty campaign creates greater community awareness about the plight of abused and neglected animals, while improving quality of life for thousands of homeless, vulnerable cats and dogs each year.

OBOL is like the Red Cross of the animal rescue world, filling the constant need of animal shelters and rescues for comfort and care items that are not covered by their general operating budgets.

OBOL's services have expanded to include assistance with animal relocation to no-kill shelters. By improving homeless animals' quality of life, OBOL helps the animals become more outgoing and affectionate, leading to increased adoptability and reduced euthanasia.

in deciding what kind of estate plan you need or whether you need an update

To learn more about OBOL, visit OperationBlanketsofLove.org or call 818.402.6586.

20

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

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City Scene

Conejo Cottontails Project 5-FOOT-TALL COTTONTAILS INVADE THE CONEJO ARTICLE KEN PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

T

he Spanish word for rabbit is “conejo,” for which our beautiful valley was named, but the cuddly little critters are taking on a new persona born from a joint venture of the cultural nonprofit Arts Council of the Conejo Valley and Art Trek, Inc. Imagine a 5-foot, 6-inch cottontail sitting on the lawn of your city hall. It’s possible.

Conejo Public Art is sponsoring the Conejo Cottontails Project, involving the creation of giant, fiberglass bunnies painted by skilled artisans. The whimsical program can be viewed as a tribute to our local namesakes, but, more importantly, it’s a means of raising awareness of the arts in our communities.

Pat Johnson, who chairs the steering committee for the group, came up with the idea in 2003, following some vacation trips with her husband. Visiting Custer, South Dakota, they found sculptures of buffalo. In Park City, Utah, there were crafted moose. Even Chicagoans fancied the cow to represent their city.

When she considered what might work similarly in the Conejo, there was only one choice—the cottontail. The first lagomorph statue was completed by artist Hessam Abrishami and is currently housed at Art Trek, Inc. under the caring eye of Nan Young, who was instrumental in getting the project off the ground, developing an educational component and finding donors to buy the first few sculptures, all which will be donated to and placed at other nonprofits.

A total of 20, 5-foot, 6-inch painted conejos are planned for this first round and will be sold for $5,000 a piece to local businesses, 22

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

Conejo Cottontails Steering Committee with the first rabbit sculpture. Beginning at the sign and going clockwise is: Kitty Dill, Jean Saunders, Melanie Roschko, Connie Tunick, Nan Young, The Rabbit, Dorothy Hage, Geri Schonberg, Pat Johnson

groups and individuals. Twenty professional artists, both painters and mosaic tillers, have been selected to do the artwork, which shall begin to appear throughout the Conejo Valley as early as March 1!

“Our goal is to have these works of art multiply like rabbits to bring attention to project arts in our community," says Pat. "Through the funds raised, we can offer visual arts and other programs for everyone from school-aged children to seniors.”

She notes that everyone she talks with about the project says, “What a great idea.” She says she has received enthusiastically positive responses from the likes of the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce, Parks and Recreation, Cultural Affairs, City Council and many others.

“We particularly need businesses in our community to get behind public arts in our communities,” she says. “Until now, we have had no real public arts program here that can be shared with residents and visitors of all ages, all cultures and backgrounds. The Conejo Cottontails Project is the first and we hope we will receive the necessary support to continue or efforts.”

Cottontail sponsors will be recognized with plaques placed on their rabbits and maps will be available to the public to show the artwork locations throughout the area.

For more information, visit ConejoPublicArt.org or contact Pat Johnson (805.497.3101) or Nan Young (805.499.1700).

Peggy Waters Resident since 2011

As a dancer, Peggy has spent a lifetime taking graceful steps. So her move to University Village comes as no surprise. From the beautiful cliff views and the friendly residents to the independent lifestyle and proximity to Cal Lutheran University, Peggy has found everything she was looking for, and more. For the same cost of homeownership, she feels like she’s given up nothing and gained so much. And that puts a spring in her step.

Hear more from Peggy at UVTO.com/testimonial.

Or call 1-866-996-1462.

Continuing Life LLC provides support and services to leading senior housing communities under a services and licensing agreement that allows for use of the Continuing LifeÂŽ mark. The company does not own, nor is it financially responsible for, University Village Thousand Oaks CCRC LLC. State of California License #565800978. Certificate of Authority #221.

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Golden Heart Ranch

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f you or others you know have special needs children, what resources are available for their support, particularly, when it comes to housing and jobs? Millions of dollars are spent each year for various programs, but little attention is given to providing homes and employment for these children as they become adults.

According to Rose van Wier Hein, executive director and founder of Golden Heart Ranch, special needs young adults have the same needs as any typical young adult. They require a sense of accomplishment, socialization, physical activity, and opportunities to grow and have a secure, dignified quality of life. For the most part, such facilities are not available, but that’s about to change for Conejo Valley families with grown children with special needs.

Van Wier Hein and her Director of Development Kevan Huncke are in the process of building a 22-acre, intentional residential community in the picturesque Agoura Hills in Kanan Canyon. The sprawling, ranch-like locale is being designed as a life-long haven and vocational training setting for young adults with special needs in the Conejo Valley.

Whether autism, Down Syndrome, epilepsy, anxiety disorder, physical impairment or other developmental disabilities, GHR is intending to give special needs young adults a community of their own.

“We will help these young adults reach their fullest potential by

24

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

living, learning, working, and playing side-by-side in a harmonic and caring environment,” says van Wier Hein.

For those with special needs children, their burning question is “What happens to my child if I become too ill to care for them or when I die?” As the mother of a 22-year-old son who was diagnosed with autism and epilepsy when he was 2, van Wier Hein asked that same question, finding few answers.

A GLIMMER OF HOPE

A visit to a farm in the Netherlands for special needs children in 2006 gave van Wier Hein a glimmer of hope. Returning home and finding little in the way of resources available in her own country, van Wier Hein decided to fill the need by founding Golden Heart Ranch in the South Bay area where she lived.

GHR received its 501c(3) status in 2009 and relies solely on donations and volunteer support.

Director of Development Kevan and her husband do not have a special needs child, but for many years have actively supported Special Olympics and other activities for disabled children and adults. In late 2014, she began searching for land to develop a camp for children with disabilities and found a dilapidated former day camp that fit the bill. She also discovered that Rose was looking at the same property in Kanan Canyon. Although they had never met, an immediate collaboration, friendship, and partnership emerged and Conejo’s Golden Heart Ranch was born.

“Structure is critical for their success and helping them reach their potential, whatever it is, is what we’re all about.”

OPPORTUNITY FOR GROWTH

With the basic infrastructure in place at the Agoura Hills facility, and with a lot more work and support from the community, the plans are to introduce a number of programs to engage, teach and support the young adults staying at GHR and those participating in their day camps.

Onsite jobs such as working in the organic gardens, bakery, coffee house, and supporting ranch events for companies that arrange team-building programs, retreats or other group activities will be available to the young adults. Offsite opportunities will be presented through the ranch’s own thrift shop and in local communities, where the young adults can earn their own spending money.

The young adults will also be involved in many programs to stretch their cognitive abilities, including art, woodworking, horticulture, farm animal care, looming, sports, and a variety of other learning experiences. Field trips will be planned to encourage ongoing exploration of the world around them.

Rose notes, “Volunteers, parents and carefully selected staff will work together to make certain the young adults in their care receive the best possible lifestyle opportunities to help each one reach their highest potential.

It is imperative that these young adults are happily challenged and given every chance to become productive members of our society."

As an example, she referenced the plans to institute cooking classes, wherein some of the residents will actually do the cooking, while others wash the vegetables from their garden, set the table for the meal, arrange floral displays, do the meal service or clean up afterwards. She believes, “It’s important to play to their individual strengths and desires, while continuing to set the bar at the next level in everything we do here.”

In California, alone, more than 300,000 children have been diagnosed with special needs issues and the number is growing at a staggering rate.

“Ninety percent of young adults with special needs have no place to go and live out their lives happily and fruitfully. There needs to be choices, not the current, ineffective system that requires the children to fit into its restrictive mold. For young adults with special needs, this is counterproductive and does not promote their growth or lifestyle possibilities," says Rose. "Golden Heart Ranch does.”

“We’re building a life center, residential community where our special needs young adults can live for their entire lives, learn, work, play and create solid relationships.

Structure is critical for their success and helping them reach their potential, whatever it is, is what we’re all about.”

For more information on Golden Heart Ranch, visit GoldenHeartRanch.com or call Kevan Huncke at 805.390.3767 or Rose van Wier Hein at 310.567.6984.

March 2016 | Conejo Valley Lifestyle

25

Cat Lady

The

of Conejo Trapping Ferals, Placing Kittens

ARTICLE KIM HENDERSON | PHOTOGRAPHY CAROL OLSON

26

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

P

erhaps you have heard of her. She is Carol Olson, Conejo Valley’s very own “Cat Lady.”

However, far from the stereotype, Carol does not live isolated and alone with the company of 20 or more mangy cats. She chooses to live in the heart of her community with her husband and four cats and plays a vital role in helping to keep the local feral cat populations in check, as well as placing dozens of feral kittens in loving homes every year. Beloved by hundreds of happy families who have adopted kittens through her, including my own, Carol has earned her affectionate moniker for her tireless animal welfare work helping our feline friends.

“My work with cats began roughly 20 years ago,” Carol explains. A fierce animal lover, she was disturbed by the number of impounded animals in shelters and resolved to do something that could make a real difference. Being particularly fond of cats, she focused her efforts on taking action that would reduce the feral cat population.

A feral cat is basically the offspring of a lost or abandoned domestic cat that has not been altered (spayed or neutered).

“A feral cat gets pregnant, has a litter and that litter never has the opportunity to be socialized," says Carol. "The kittens grow up wild and try to survive, continuing to have more feral kittens. And the cycle continues.” One humane way to counter expanding feral populations is to increase spaying and neutering efforts.

To that end, Carol became a feral cat trapper.

Today, she is a skilled cat-trapping volunteer who works with donationsupported nonprofits, Valley Vet Non-Profit Spay and Neuter Clinic in Simi Valley and the Spay/Neuter Animal Network thrift store in Ventura, to support her mission. When the clinic receives a call about a stray or feral cat—or perhaps a feral cat colony, where a group of feral cats live, they reach out to Carol for help.

Using a humane trap, she will collect a cat and bring it to the Simi Valley clinic to be spayed or neutered by licensed veterinarians at no charge. Once the cat has recovered, she returns it to where it was originally trapped.

The Trap-Neuter-Return practice is widely embraced by animal welfare advocates as an effective way to reduce the number of euthanized animals in shelters. Animal regulation departments acknowledge spay and neuter clinics as playing an effective role in reducing the number of impounded animals. With roughly 10,000 pets surrendered to Ventura County shelters annually, shelters and volunteers like Carol provide a vital animal welfare and community service.

“Each year, I trap roughly a couple hundred cats for spaying and neutering. It makes an impact,” Carol says.

Feral kittens are a challenge too. Carol also humanely collects and places feral kitten litters.

CONTINUED >

March 2016 | Conejo Valley Lifestyle

27

CAT LADY OF CONEJO (C ON TI N U ED)

FOR ASSISTANCE WITH STRAY OR FERAL CATS/KITTENS OR LOW-COST SPAY AND NEUTER SERVICES, CONTACT:

Valley Vet Non-Profit Spay and Neuter Clinic 1659 E. Los Angeles Avenue Simi Valley, California 93065 805.584.3823 ValleyVetNonProfit.com About 2.4 million healthy, adoptable cats and dogs—about one every 13 seconds—are put down in U.S. shelters each year. Often these animals are the offspring of cherished family pets. Spay/neuter is a proven way to reduce pet overpopulation, ensuring that every pet has a family to love them.

– The Humane Society of the United States

“People call me and say things like, ‘I’ve been feeding this kitty for six months and oh my goodness, I just found kittens under my garden shed!’” In California's temperate climate, unaltered female cats can be in heat year round. Residents make a difference by being proactive.

“If you see a stray or feral cat, ask for help immediately," urges Carol. "Don’t wait until a litter of kittens are on the ground. Call our local spay and neuter clinics. Our volunteers do not judge or ask questions—and the cats are never harmed.”

Of course, kittens are fun! Carol’s home has a dedicated room specifically for the feral kittens she rescues. A feline Disneyland of sorts, it’s loaded with interactive toys and cat towers—and a changing group of adorable, spritely balls of fur. Socializing 28

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

the wild kittens is her number one priority, and it requires hours and hours of play and hands-on interaction.

“I typically spend 15 minutes with the kittens every hour or so. The frequent and consistent handling builds their confidence.

They learn humans are their caretakers and safe to snuggle and be with,” Carol explains.

As soon as the kittens are old enough, they are spayed or neutered, vaccinated and then placed in loving homes.

While adoption is not a good idea for anyone with allergies or without the resources and stability to support a cat for its life expectancy of 15-20 years, for most families, adopting a kitten or cat is a win-win situation. Not only is a cat’s life saved, but pet owners also receive the benefits of bonding with a special animal.

“Cats add to the quality of people’s lives. I love their antics! Watching them play or sleep peacefully brings joy and serenity. Cat owners find comfort in the companionship and the enjoyment of petting their soft fur and hearing their gentle purr,” Carol explains.

From firsthand experience, I can say that this is true. My family adopted an adorable, two-month-old, black hair domestic kitten from Carol in 2014. We call her “Bear.” My teenage daughter has found such comfort from their special bond.

Thank you, Carol, our Conejo Valley “Cat Lady.”

For more information about cat adoption, fostering or volunteering, please contact Carol at the Valley Vet Non-Profit Spay and Neuter Clinic: 805.584.3823.

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Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

National Disaster Search Dog Foundation Rescuing Dogs to Save Lives ARTICLE TRACY MARCYNZSYN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

T

ornados, hurricanes, floods, building collapse, train wrecks.

Disasters can happen anytime, anywhere. And when people are missing, buried in rubble, getting search dogs on the scene quickly increases their chance of being discovered and rescued.

After the Oklahoma tornadoes, search dogs were on the scene in an hour and a half, helping to locate victims missing among the destruction. In Port au Prince, Haiti, search dogs helped save 12 lives, for which Pearl was honored with the ASPCA Dog of the Year award.

Search dogs have helped locate disaster victims throughout the world, including Japan, Haiti, Oklahoma and New York.

Many of the specially trained canines learned their lifesaving skills at the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation training facility in Santa Paula, California. Founded

by Wilma Melville in 1996, the nonprofit Search Dog Foundation's mission is to "strengthen disaster response in America by recruiting rescued dogs and partnering them with firefighters and other first responders to find people buried alive in the wreckage of disasters."

"The beauty of the dogs is that they give people hope. They give people hope that someone can be found alive," says Melville, who saw the need for more canine search teams when she and her dog Murphy responded to the Oklahoma City bombings in 1995.

One of a handful of advanced FEMA-certified handlers, Melville was stunned by the loss of lives that resulted from the bombings. With only 15 trained canine search teams in the nation at that time, the disaster brought to light the great need for rescue dogs to find people trapped under rubble.

Melville, then in her 60s, set out to fill that need.

CONTINUED >

March 2016 | Conejo Valley Lifestyle

31

NOW RECRUITING

Triple Negative Breast Cancer Survivors for New Clinical Research Study Study Aims to Validate a New Blood Test for Early Detection of Cancer Recurrence

Cynvenio (Westlake Village, CA) is recruiting participants for a clinical research study to monitor women with higher risk of developing breast cancer recurrence. You may qualify if you have had triple negative breast cancer and have completed your therapy.

Call us at (805) 855-2050 to see if you qualify or visit www.clearidmonitoring.com/study to learn more.

Stay Well.

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SEARCH DOG FOUNDATION (CON TI N U ED)

Photo Credit: Susan Bollinger

Photo Credit: Susan Bollinger

Ph

"I like to rise to the challenge," explained Melville, a retired Physical Education teacher and avid aviator with a special connection to animals since childhood.

"I felt I could do something; I felt I Cr ed it : could make a difference," she said.

S us an Boll inger Since its start in 1996, the Search Dog Foundation has trained and certified more than a hundred canine search teams, providing the nation with highly trained dogs and handlers that can go anywhere, anytime and do a highly professional job.

Partnering shelter dogs with firefighters, It takes a special dog, with traits includthe Search Dog Foundation professionally trains canines and offers an ongoing training ing self-confidence, an outgoing nature, program at no cost to fire departments and with interest in toys, high energy, boldness, drive and ability to focus to become a certino government funding.

Based in Ojai, California, the Search fied search dog.

Tanner was found homeless and hunDog Foundation's trained canine teams have been deployed to disaster sites gry on a golf course when the Foundation throughout the world, including the World adopted him and gave him a purpose.

Trade Center, Japan and Haiti. Currently, During a training exercise, Tanner found a 72 SDF-trained Search Teams located "victim" buried in rubble in seconds, barking in California, Florida, Nebraska, New loudly directly above the hidden victim.

"The rescued becomes the rescuer; that's a York, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Baja California are ready terrific feeling," says Melville.

Dogs undergo directional and obedience to deploy and save lives in case of a disaster. Thanks to Mutual Aid Agreements training and are taught to search through a between counties, cities and states, these game of hide and seek during which trainprecious, life-saving resources can be ers hide with a toy.

"It's like a game for the dog," says Melville. shared regionally and nationally to make sure that when disaster strikes, "No One "It's fun."

The Foundation relies on grants, sponsorships Is Left Behind." and private donations to fund the training and FROM RESCUED TO RESCUER ensures lifetime care for every dog in its program.

Many of the Search Dog Foundation's While 15 certified canine search teams in 1995 dogs are rescued shelter dogs that have been have grown to more than 150 today, "the need "re-energized" and given a job. is an absolute minimum of 400," says Melville. ot

o

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Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

Photo Credit: Susan Bollinger

GRAND OPENING

The Search Dog Foundation plans to train many more canine search teams from around the country at its 125-acre National Training Center for Canine Disaster Search Teams, located in a beautiful, rustic canyon in Santa Paula, California. The first facility of its kind in the nation, the center provides a place where rescued dogs learn to be rescuers, and Search Teams can practice disaster simulations under the expert guidance of SDF trainers.

The center will be fully operational by September 2016, with more disaster simulation props to be added in 2017.

Training and preparing increased numbers of certified canine search teams will surely save lives of disaster victims trapped under the debris of destruction, when the sound of a search dog's triumphant "Eureka" bark signals life, almost lost, has been amazingly found.

To learn more about the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation, call 888.459.4376 or visit SearchDogFoundation.org.

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SURPRISING FACTS about Weight Loss

ARTICLE DR. SHARON NORLING

“I

s the life you are living worth the life you are giving up?”

Health issues can rob us of our natural well-being and keep us from living and enjoying life to the fullest. It's important to realize that the symptoms of poor health serve as signals that something is out of balance in the body. Weight gain is no exception.

Weight gain starts because of a cause and continues because the cause remains. As with many health issues, the underlying cause of the weight gain must be addressed to halt excess weight gain and allow the body to return to its healthy, ideal weight.

EXAMINING THE CAUSE

Increased fat doesn’t just show up overnight, although it can sure seem that way. There are many reasons why your midsection expands.

Whether your extra inches are merely annoying or a sign of more serious health problems, scientifically backed methods can be used to document and address the cause(s) of weight gain.

DIET

Low-fat diets have long been touted as the key to a healthy weight and good health, but the evidence just isn’t there. In the past 30 years, the percentage of calories from fat in people’s diets has gone down, but obesity rates have skyrocketed in the U.S. Part of the problem with low-fat diets is they are often high in carbohydrates, especially from rapidly digested sources, such as white bread and white rice. Such foods increase the risk of weight gain, diabetes and heart disease. Alternatively, diets rich in healthy fats, like avocados, nuts, seeds and olive oil, are significantly more likely to lead to lasting weight loss, according to a 2015 Harvard study.

SUGAR, CORN SYRUP AND ADDITIVES

Did you know sugar is 8 times more addictive than cocaine or heroin? Simple sugars, like those found in diet sodas, not only add pounds, but they also trigger food cravings, causing you to eat more.

High fructose corn syrup, which is 20 times sweeter than sugar, should also be avoided. Check the labels, as high fructose corn syrup can be found in cereal bars, ketchup and so many other prepackaged foods. Additives like Olean decrease vitamin absorption, and while banned in Canada, China and the European Union, are promoted as “healthy food” in the U.S. Avoid fake health foods and added preservatives, all of which add unwanted pounds.

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Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

METABOLISM

Remember when you could eat whatever you wanted and not gain weight? Then the years piled on pounds, despite dieting and exercise.

Excess visceral fat sends chemical signals throughout the body that can slow metabolism and increase insulin: high insulin levels can cause inflammation and prompt the body to convert calories to fat.

When your liver processes that fat, it deposits it right next to where the organ is located: your midsection.

DIGESTION

Love what you hear and hear what you Love!

Hidden food allergies, gluten sensitivity, low beneficial bacteria and gastrointestinal infections like Candida can slow digestion and affect health. Obesity lowered total brain volume in healthy, middle-aged individuals in a recent study published in the Annuals of Neurology. What's more, the study found visceral abdominal fat was significantly linked to the development of dementia and Alzheimer’s!

HORMONES

Balanced neurotransmitters and hormones are key to healthy weight management. Chronic stress causes high levels of insulin and cortisol in the blood, and low thyroid and adrenal function contribute to excess weight.

The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, which has a huge impact on weight, energy level and mood. Thyroid-induced symptoms include weight gain, constipation, hair loss, sluggishness, fatigue, depression and mood swings.

And when stress hormones are unbalanced, the thyroid is often affected, which in turn triggers other issues like PMS, menstrual and perimenopausal symptoms. Controlling stress is key: women burned 104 fewer calories after eating a high-fat meal on days they experienced high levels of stress.

Low levels of dopamine increase cravings, while low serotonin creates carbohydrate cravings and low epinephrine makes it hard to shed pounds. Normal levels of testosterone support lean muscle mass.

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• Eat healthy whole foods and move your body.

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• Remove toxins.

• Explore natural options clinically proven to support healthy weight loss.

• Supplement with medical foods and a Swiss cell nutrition supplement.

You deserve to be healthy, happy and energetic.

Dr. Sharon Norling practices Advanced Functional Medicine in Westlake Village. Call 818.707.9355 or visit DrSharonNorling.com.

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www.conejohearingcenter.com March 2016 | Conejo Valley Lifestyle

37

Healthy Lifestyle

GOT SINUS ISSUES? CONEJO VALLEY'S DR. MARC KERNER CAN HELP! ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

H

ave you had recurrent colds or allergy attacks that don’t seem to go away? If so, there's a good chance you have sinusitis, a

condition that afflicts more than 37 million people each year.

TREATMENT

Bacterial sinusitis: Therapy for bacterial sinusitis includes appropriate antibiotics. In addition, oral or nasal spray or drop decongestant may be

The good news is that local experts like Marc Kerner, MD, FACS,

recommended to relieve congestion. Dr. Kerner does not recommend

offer the latest treatments for sinus issues. Double board certified by

prolonged use of nonprescription nasal sprays or drops. Inhaling steam or

the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and

using saline nasal sprays or irrigations can help to relieve sinus discomfort.

the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Dr.

Diagnosis can be made by looking into the nasal cavity with a

Kerner serves as the Medical Director of Calwest Head and Neck

small endoscope and if necessary an X-ray scan of the sinuses. If

Surgical Institute located in Westlake Village and Northridge and has

it is determined that your sinus passages are narrowed or blocked

helped thousands of patients with their sinusitis issues.

leading to symptomatic sinus infections or chronic sinusitis, several state-of-the art options are available to correct this condition.

WHEN IS A COLD ACTUALLY SINUSITIS?

According to Dr. Kerner, Balloon Sinuplasty is a minimally invasive

The majority of sinus infections are caused by bacteria that

procedure for patients suffering from sinus blockage. Dr. Kerner is

become trapped in blocked sinuses. Bacteria flourish in the sinuses,

one of the first surgeons in the country to do the procedure, which

creating symptoms of runny nose, congestion, facial pain and pres-

is performed in the office under local anesthesia and allows patients

sure. Sinus infections are usually preceded by a cold or allergy attack,

rapid recovery. The technology for this procedure was adopted from

which contributes to sinus blockage and can worsen by exposure to

angioplasty in which small balloon catheters are used to dilate either

environmental pollutants. Unlike colds or allergies, bacterial sinusitis

blocked vessels, or in the case of sinuses, blocked drainage path-

requires a physician's diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics to

ways. Minimally invasive surgery is also available to correct anatomic

cure the infection and prevent future complications.

deformities that lead to obstruction of the sinuses.

Normally, mucus collecting in the sinuses drains into the nasal pas-

The Balloon Sinuplasty devices are effective endoscopic tools and

sages. When people have a cold or allergy attack, sinuses become

may be used with other medical therapies or endoscopic surgical

inflamed and unable to drain, leading to congestion and repeated

techniques. In a patient, the Balloon Sinuplasty products can be used

infections. Diagnosis of acute sinusitis usually is based on physical

on several sinuses. Additionally, using these devices does not limit

examination and discussion of your symptoms. X-rays of your sinuses

future treatment options for patients with progressive disease.

or a sample of your nasal discharge is used to test for bacteria.

Each patient suffering from sinusitis is different. Only after thorough examinations and discussions between the patient and doctor can it be

WHEN ACUTE BECOMES CHRONIC SINUSITIS

determined whether you may benefit from the Balloon Sinuplasty system.

When you have frequent sinus infections, or the infection lasts three months or more, you most likely suffer from chronic sinusitis. Symptoms

For more information on Dr. Kerner and Balloon Sinuplasty, please visit

of chronic sinusitis may be less severe than those of acute sinusitis; how-

CalWestent.com or call 818.349.0600. Cal West Head and Neck Surgical

ever, untreated chronic sinusitis can cause damage to the sinuses and can

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require surgery to correct the blockage and relieve the symptoms.

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Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

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39

Financial Buzz

How Long Will It Take For Your Money To Double?

USE THE RULE OF 72 ARTICLE ROCKY MILLS

T

he “Rule of 72” has been a staple of finance for centuries, with roots dating back to Summa de Arithmetica by Fra Luca Pacioli, the so-called Father (yes, literally…) of Accounting and collaborator with Leonardo da Vinci. He wrote in 1494:

up with a pretty close estimate, if you know (a) the growth rate of your investments and (b) the Rule of 72: 72 / Growth Rate = Years to Double.

“In wanting to know of any capital, at a given yearly percentage, in how many years it will double adding the interest to the capital, keep as a rule 72 in mind, which you will always divide by the interest, and what results, in that many years it will be doubled.”

If, for example, your pool was earning 3% per year, you’d take 72 and divide it by 3 to determine that you’d need 24 years for it to double. How about 7%? 72 / 7 = 10.3 years.

The Rule of 72 can also be used in reverse: 72 / Years to Double = Growth Rate.

72 / Growth Rate = Years to Double

72 / Years to Double = Growth Rate

Continuing with our example, if you wanted to retire in 10 years, what growth rate would you need on your investments to meet your goal? Take 72 and divide by 10 = 7.2% growth rate.

Q A

It’s a very handy rule to know. Let’s apply it to your finances.

Let’s say you’ve determined that you’ll need around $200,000 a year to maintain your lifestyle in retirement. You then remember my article from September on the 4% Rule that said you ought to be able to safely withdraw 4% per year with minimal capital erosion. With a little quick math, you quickly determine that you’ll need to have an investable pool of $5 million, such that 4% comes out to $200,000 per year.

Your pool, however, is currently only $2.5 million. And you want to know: How long will it take to double? You can very quickly come

Pretty simple, right? Okay, let’s check your understanding with this quiz:

Q: You’ve set aside $50,000 for your newborn daughter to go to

college. It’s been estimated that her college will cost $200,000 by the time she’s ready to go. If you didn’t add another penny to your $50,000 pool, what growth rate will you need over the next 18 years to get it to $200,000?

A: You’ll need four times what you have currently – that’s back-to-

back doubles. So you have nine years to complete each double: 72 / 9 = 8% growth rate.

Isn’t math fun!

Robert A. “Rocky” Mills is a Financial Advisor with the Global Wealth Management Division of Morgan Stanley in Westlake Village. The information contained in this article is not a solicitation to purchase or sell investments. Any information presented is general in nature and not intended to provide individually tailored investment advice. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, Member SIPC, or its affiliates.

40

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

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Open House

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PODS delivers a container right to your door. When you’re done packing, they’ll pick up your container and deliver it across town or across the country. You can also choose to store your container in one of our PODS secure Storage Centers.

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t some point in our lives, all of us will need to consider moving and storage options and determine the right fit for our precious belongings. There are many factors to consider when making your moving and storage decisions: SCHEDULE: Does the service fit the timeframe you need to load and unload your belongings? Moving can be stressful enough on its own, and no one needs the additional stress of feeling rushed. Make sure you can pack and unpack at your own pace.

EASE OF USE: A tall ramp can make loading and unloading heavy items difficult and driving back and forth to a storage unit to unload belongings requires extra time and work.

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CUSTOMER SERVICE: You may be a seasoned pro or a first time mover, but having someone close by to answer all your questions can be reassuring when moving and storing.

42

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

At PODS, we don’t believe in the pressure of deadlines. With PODS, you’re in control of your move; call us and let us know when you need a container. Then, take all the time you need to load it with your belongings. We’ll only show up when you’re ready for us to pick it up. Then, we’ll take the container to your new address and give you all the time you need to unload it.

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THREE SIZES TO FIT YOUR MOVE

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If you need multiple containers for a larger household, PODS can arrange delivery times to fit your packing needs.

Our local PODS team is here to help make one of life’s biggest hassles a lot less stressful – and a lot more convenient. PODS offers endless moving and storage possibilities. Whether you are staging a house, decluttering a garage, renovating a home, bridging a gap between moving from one house to the next, or making a full-scale cross-country move, PODS is at your service.

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Lifestyle Calendar

March MARCH 4

MARCH 8

WIG & STACHE PARTY

NATIONAL PANCAKE DAY AT IHOP (FREE SHORT STACK!!)

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL WESTLAKE VILLAGE

VARIOUS IHOP LOCATIONS

Sport a wig or mustache while having fun and benefiting Many Man-

IHOP restaurants offer each guest a free short stack of buttermilk

sions, the Conejo Free Clinic, the Cancer Support Center and Triunfo

pancakes. In return, IHOP asks guests to consider donating the price

YMCA. WestlakeJuniors.org

of the pancakes to Children's Miracle Network and other designated

MARCH 5 & 6

local charities. IHOPPancakeDay.com

54TH ANNUAL GEM, MINERAL, LAPIDARY & FOSSIL SHOW

MARCH 8

SEASIDE PARK

LOLA HAAG & THE BACK BEATS

The Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, Inc.'s 54th annual show features

BOGIE'S SHOWROOM AT THE WESTLAKE VILLAGE INN

gems, minerals, rocks, fossils, jewelry, exhibits, displays, prizes, deal-

The Bogie's Jazz Series features the award-winning Lola Haag & the

ers, silent auction and kids' activities. Free admission. VGMS.org

Back Beats. No cover charge. BogiesBar.com

MARCH 5 & 6

MARCH 9

29TH ANNUAL SPRING ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL

WINE DOWN WEDNESDAY

BORCHARD COMMUNITY CENTER

THE BAY CLUB

Artisans and craft persons sell original, handmade arts and crafts.

Come relax, mix with fellow members or bring a guest to enjoy wine,

Children’s art/craft activity area. CRPD.org

small bites and conversation while making Wednesday your new

MARCH 5

mid-week indulgence. BayClubs.com

SNOW CARNIVAL

MARCH 12

OAK PARK NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL

28TH ANNUAL ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE

20 tons of snow! Sledding, bouncers, games, food and silent auc-

MAIN STREET, DOWNTOWN VENTURA

tion. Fun for the whole family!! $5 per person; kids under 2 are free.

The parade starts on East Main Street near the San Buenaventura

818.707-7742.

Mission, proceeding to the corner of North Chestnut Street and East

MARCH 5

Main Street. VenturaStPatricksDayParade.com

13TH ANNUAL SUPERSTARS OF THE YEAR CELEBRATION

MARCH 12

THOUSAND OAKS CIVIC ARTS PLAZA

COLLECTORS CHOICE FUNDRAISER

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley hosts an exciting

STUDIO CHANNEL ISLANDS BLACKBOARD GALLERY

and inspirational fun-filled afternoon that recognizes excellence in

Start or enhance your art collection! Ticketholders will take home an

Club members and volunteers. The event is free and open to the pub-

original artwork of their choosing determined by an exciting and sus-

lic. BGCConejo.org

penseful lottery. StudioChannelIslands.org

MARCH 6

MARCH 13

71ST ANNUAL SANTA BARBARA INTERNATIONAL

4TH ANNUAL WALK TO END GENOCIDE

ORCHID SHOW

TEMPLE ETZ CHAIM/UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

EARL WARREN SHOW GROUNDS

Visit the Global Village Festival for information on Darfur, Sudan, Con-

Wild World of Orchids! is the theme of the longest running annual orchid

go and other human rights abuses, conflict minerals campaign and

show in the country. Admission: $14. Seniors and students with ID: $12.

other advocacy opportunities, solar cooker demonstrations, crafts,

Children 12 and under: free with paying adult. SBOrchidShow.com

merchandise, food, music and more. WalkToEndGenocide.org CONTINUED >

44

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

Lifestyle Calendar

(CON TI N U ED)

MARCH 19

ment. Refreshments and baskets are avail-

ment benefit the Friendship Circle of Agou-

31ST ANNUAL GREAT RACE

able for a minimal fee. CRPD.org

ra Hills, a nonprofit for children with special

OF AGOURA HILLS

needs. FriendshipWalk.org

CHUMASH PARK

MARCH 20

Raise money for local schools at this day of

5TH ANNUAL LET'S BAKE A DIFFER-

MARCH 28

racing, music, food, vendors, inflatables, give-

ENCE FUNDRAISER

CITY OF MALIBU

aways and more. Voted "Best Post-Race Par-

WESTLAKE VILLAGE INN

25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

ty" for years. GreatRaceofAgouraHills.com

A "sweet” way to help a good cause; attend

MALIBU CITY HALL

one of the biggest cupcake and dessert tast-

Celebrate and see the Malibu Cultural Arts

ings of the year. Proceeds benefit Cancer

Commission-hosted "Art of the Board,” surf-

Support. CancerSupportVVSB.org

board art installation honoring Malibu’s

MARCH 19 SPRING SPECTACULAR AMERICA'S TEACHING ZOO

surfing history and culture. MalibuCity.org

Entertaining animal shows, a behind the

MARCH 26

scenes look and interaction with wild animal

HEALTHY FAMILY DAY

MARCH 30

trainers and their furry friends. Weekends

THE BAY CLUB

NEW WEST SYMPHONY'S MEET THE

through April 3. Zoo.MoorparkCollege.edu

The family that plays together stays healthy to-

ARTISTS

gether! Take time out of your schedule and en-

UNIVERSITY VILLAGE

joy family classes and activities. BayClubs.com

Pianist Ko-Eun Yi is the featured artist. Music

MARCH 19 CONEJO RECREATION & PARK DISTRICT

director Marcelo Lehninger leads an engag-

ANNUAL CONEJO SPRINGFEST

MARCH 27

CONEJO CREEK SOUTH PLAYFIELDS

11TH ANNUAL FRIENDSHIP WALK

tion. Reservations required. Free and open to

Bring the kids for egg hunts, games inflat-

WILLOW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

the public. NewWestSymphony.org

ables, crafts, face painting and live entertain-

A 5K and family fun walk, food and entertain-

ing and enlightening one-hour conversa-

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Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

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business directory ANIMALS & ANIMAL CARE

Camp Bow Wow Agoura Hills (818) 889-2267 campbowwowusa.com/agourahills Paw Hills (818) 889-7387 pawhills.com Veterinary Angels (818) 865-1800 veterinaryangels.com

AUTOMOTIVE Ladin Hyundai (805) 495-2193 ladinhyundai.com Ladin Subaru (805) 495-2195 ladinsubaru.com Premier Coach (805) 373-7366 premiercoachautocollision.com Silver Star AG (805) 371-5400 silverstarmbz.com

CHILD CAMPS, CARE & TUTORING Monarchs Gym (818) 889-3634 monarchsgym.com

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS Snow Orthodontics (661) 273-1750 drsnow.com

ENTERTAINMENT & RECREATION Cabrillo Music Theatre (805) 497-8613 cabrillomusictheatre.com

48

Lola Haag - Best Jazz Artist Ventura County Award 2015 (213) 261-4840 lolahaag.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING Montecito Bank and Trust (805) 963-7511 montecito.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS Burn 60 (818) 219-9183 burn60studios.com Sports Academy (310) 405-3405 sportsacademy.us

The Sofa Guy (805) 497-3222 thesofaguy.com

Sharon Norling, MD (818) 707-9395 drsharonnorling.com

Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design (805) 496-6660 thousandoaksfiresideanddesign.com

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE

HOME SERVICES PODS® Moving & Storage, Solved™ (805) 628-4181 PODS.com

LEGAL SERVICES Gumm & Green LLP (818) 707-4233 gummandgreen.com

Vitality Institute of Agoura (818) 735-0904 vitalityinstituteofagoura.com

Law Offices of Raymond Stuehrmann (805) 230-1288

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

Homestar Companies (805) 574-1100 homestarcompanies.com

Conejo Pain Specialists Medical Group (805) 497-8616 conejopainmd.com

American Vision Windows (805) 418-5601 americanvisionwindows.com

TJF Construction (805) 498-9511 tjfconstruction.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

The Drapery Guy & More (818) 707-8500 thedraperyguy.net The Sleep Shoppe (805) 498-2233 shopthesleepshoppe.com

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Conejo Hearing Center (818) 991-3800 conejohearingcenter.com

Cynvenio (505) 777-0017703 clearmonitoring.com Dr. Marc Kerner MD, FACS (805) 230-1111 calwestent.com Duben Holistic Chiropractic Center (805) 494-1339 docduben.com

Affirmative Escrow (805) 496-7254 affirmativeescrow.com

Harcourts Real Estate (805) 722-8874 harcourtscv.com Rosemary Allison Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage (805) 491-2100 callrosemary.com The Morton Team International (818) 307-0026 themortonteam.net

SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES

AdvantagePlus Caregivers (805) 322-8822 advantagepluscaregivers.com Meadowbrook Senior Living (818) 514-5041 meadowbrook-agourahills.com University Village (805) 241-3315 uvto.com

SPECIALTY SHOPS Sunland Vintage Winery (805) 379-2250 SunlandVintagewinery.com

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49

Parting Thoughts

Animals Can Be Great Therapy ARTICLE KIM PAGANO

T

he New Year is in full swing and it is time to greet spring with a new furry friend. What is your choice of animal comfort?

It is a proven fact that animals ano K im Pag of all shapes and sizes are sources of unconditional emotional support.

With dogs, cats, horses, and birds being the most common choices, which are you most passionate about?

I have recently interviewed a few of our local animal shelters and rescues and I am pleased to say that times have changed immensely for the average shelter in a great way. One shelter in particular recently launched a Meet Your Match program intended to match new owners to their new pets. How does it work?

It features a test that involves completing an entire survey on each animal, matching the animal with different “colors” representing their various characteristics. Questions pertaining to the amount of exercise the pet requires or how mild mannered versus aggressive the pet may be help designate their traits. Then, when a family looking to adopt comes in, the shelter performs the same survey on these potential pet adopters. They ask them questions like, “Do you like to exercise or are you more of a couch potato?

Are there children in your house or will the animal be left alone?”

The shelter then analyzes all of the potential owners’ answers, assigning each one colors that align with their personality descriptions. Finally, once the colors have been analyzed between owner and pet, the family and the animal are matched to be great mates.

50

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

I was so impressed with this method.

I was taught by my parents the value of adopting. When you adopt an animal, hopefully much like a child, it is a commitment for their life span. Just like raising our kids, it takes a lot of love, hard dedication, and training. You will be rewarded with an unconditional living member of your family.

Once you've adopted your new friend, what next? There are several choices you can make when deciding how you intend to raise your animal, much like your child. Time has shown that, for some people, animals have grown to play as important of a role to their owners as would an extended family member… maybe even closer. Stores sell cute clothes for pets, and even purses to carry them in for the smaller ones.

Some owners’ animals eat all organic food. All of this is not to mention the recent boom of pet hotels and pet day spas containing cameras so that owners can make sure their loved ones are being taken care of with love. There are drop-off doggy day cares for the person who needs to go to work and restaurants that allow your furry friends to dine with you.

There are even pet parks that are fenced off by pet sizes. Destinations like these provide a great way for our pets, and us humans, to socialize.

So if you’re looking for some pure love, look no further. Decide what animal you are most passionate about and how much time you have to dedicate to them. Know you will be choosing one of your new very best, most loyal friends.

To find out more about Kim Pagano, visit kimpaganoshow.com

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