Conejo Valley September 2015 by City Lifestyle

Conejo Valley

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SEPTEMBER 2015

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Publisher’s Letter

The spirit of service. W

ell here we are with our second issue of Conejo Valley Lifestyle. Wow!

As anyone who has ever started a business can tell you, the experience of starting from “ground zero” and getting sales and editorial completed for the first issue, then to our graphics team and then to the printer was a combination of joy and terror. Very little else in between those two extremes. However, since the response to our premier issue from readers and businesses in our community was very gratifying, it has all been worth it. Many thanks to everyone, from our Lifestyle Publications team to our advertisers, who helped us through the experience. We wanted to touch on a theme we introduced in August on the subject of Giving Back. It was discussed in an article in the middle of the magazine, and this month we would like to lead off with it. Giving back is an important part of our editorial mission. Our community is blessed with a level of affluence that often does and should continue to foster support for charities of all kinds. In our community, many charities will benefit from our readers' support. Charitable organizations are encouraged to contact us to help them get their information in front of more than 40,000 readers in the Conejo Valley. By October, we will have expanded that reach into the neighboring Santa Rosa Valley community. The theme of this issue is Service to the Community. We honor individuals and organizations that strive to make our community a better place and to improve the lives of others through service. Each and every one of us can take action to serve others, strengthening and helping our community by sharing our talents and resources. We hope you enjoy it and are inspired to make a contribution in the spirit of community service. Let us know what you think. Your feedback is very important.

SEPTEMBER 2015 publisher Ben Malkin | Ben.Malkin@LifestylePubs.com Robin Chesler | Robin.Chesler@LifestylePubs.com

editor Tracy Marcynzsyn | Tracy.Marcynzsyn@LifestylePubs.com

contributing writers Lisa Cooke Hamilton, Ben Malkin, Tracy Marcynzsyn, Mira Reverente

contributing photographers Ben Malkin, Brenda Russett, Chad E. Steel

Ben Malkin, Publisher Ben.Malkin@LifestylePubs.com

Robin Chesler, Publisher Robin.Chesler@LifestylePubs.com

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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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September 2015

Departments 8

Good Times

Around Town

Star Student

Hot Spot

Healthy Lifestyle

Hops & Vine

Lifestyle Calendar

Parting Thoughts

12 Going for the Gold Girl Scout creates workshop to educate, improve lives.

16 Beyond Entertainment Community theatre touches lives through arts and outreach.

22 Doing His Part Local resident uses experience to help others.

22 Lifestyle Publications

(805) 491-2100 RosemaryAllison@aol.com www.CallRosemary.com

hy are so many sellers choosing this nationally recognized Real Estate Agent?

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.

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. Join Rosemary’s long list of satisfied sellers by contacting her today at 805.491.2100 RosemaryAllison@aol.com or on the web at www.callRosemary.com

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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.

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 the 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.

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2014 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. ©

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-milliondollar 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.

Good Times

Local Talent Entertained Broadway Style

Talented artists from area theatre companies turned out to sing Rodgers and Hammerstein show tunes at Cabrillo Music Theatre’s Open Mic Night at Bogie’s Bar at the Westlake Village Inn.

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Around Town COMMUNITY THEATRE PRESENTS DAMN YANKEES

Get your tickets now for Cabrillo Music Theatre's upcoming show, Damn Yankees, opening October 16. Dedicating its 22nd season to the community, Cabrillo Music Theatre promises a night of laughter and fun with the long-awaited return of Damn Yankees. Last performed by Cabrillo Music Theatre in 1996, Damn Yankees 2015 performance features music by Richard Adler and lyrics by Jerry Ross to tell the story of Joe Boyd, a middle-aged baseball fanatic who trades his soul to the devil for a chance to lead his favorite team to victory in the pennant race against the New York Yankees. Based on the book by George Abbott and Douglas Wallop, Damn Yankees’ colorful characters, smashing dance numbers and songs, including "Whatever Lola Wants (Lola Gets)," "You Gotta Have Heart" and "Those Were the Good Old Days," are sure to entertain young and old alike. For tickets and information, please call the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza Box Office at 805.449.2787.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR COASTAL CLEANUP DAY Coastal Cleanup Day is a quick, effective and rewarding opportunity to give something back to our community and the environment by spending just three hours of your morning picking up trash while enjoying a local park or beach. You can help keep our local beaches and waterways clean by participating in this year’s California Coastal Cleanup Day on Saturday, September 19, from 9 a.m. to noon. With the mission of engaging people to remove debris from our beaches and waterways, identify the sources of marine debris, and ultimately to change the behaviors that cause pollution, the Coastal Cleanup Day is an educational and helpful event. Last year’s 3,000-plus volunteers cleaned up 40 miles of beaches and inland waterways, removing some 10,000 pounds of trash! Join us at one of more than 20 local clean-up sites, from beaches to inland areas. Meet at the California Street Plaza near the Crowne Plaza hotel in Ventura, or near the basketball courts at Borchard Park (Reino Road and Borchard) in Newbury Park. Find more locations here: VCCoastCleanup.org.

LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR September 28 marks a special day for neighbors across the United States: National Good Neighbor Day. Created to celebrate and acknowledge the importance of good neighbors, National Good Neighbor Day is the perfect time to do something nice for your neighbor. Being a good neighbor involves lending a helping hand, 10 Conejo Valley Lifestyle | September 2015

looking out for each other, sharing friendships and perhaps lending a needed item now and then. In 1978, President Jimmy Carter memorialized National Good Neighbor Day—first created by Becky Mattson of Lakeside, Montana, in the 1970s—with Proclamation 4601: “As our Nation struggles to build friendship among the peoples of this world, we are mindful that the noblest human concern is concern for others. Understanding, love, and respect build cohesive families and communities. The same bonds cement our Nation, and the nations of the world. For most of us, this sense of community is nurtured and expressed in our neighborhoods where we give each other an opportunity to share and feel part of a larger family…I call upon the people of the United States and interested groups and organizations to observe such day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.” How will you celebrate your neighbors? Let us know by sending an email to us at Tracy.Marcynzsyn@LifestylePubs.com.

PAINT & SIP ON SATURDAY EVENING Join Sunland Vintage Winery and Red Brick Gallery on Saturday, September 26 from 7 to 9:30 p.m. for a fun evening pairing great wine with fun painting. Learn the techniques to paint your own Acrylic painting of colorful sunkissed fall trees with a soft sway while sipping wine. Choose your own colors and add your own flair to your painting to create your own unique work of art. No previous experience necessary. Just $39 includes a glass of wine, painting supplies and instruction. Sign up at RedBrickArt.com/paintingparty/paint-sip-sunland.com.

RECYCLING E-WASTE ROUND-UP Calling all electronic waste items, including old televisions, cell phones, personal computers, cables, wires, DC players, power tools, copiers, microwave ovens, light bulbs, inkjet cartridges, and appliances. The City of Calabasas offers a free e-waste collection on the first Saturday of the month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Albertson's parking lot, located at 26521 Agoura Road. What's happening around town? Send your news and announcements for our calendar and Around Town sections to Tracy.Marcynzsyn@LifestylePubs.com.

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Star Student

Girl Scout Goes for the Gold STRIVING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN HER COMMUNITY ARTICLE TRACY MARCYNZSYN | PHOTOGRAPHY BRENDA RUSSETT

ixteen-year-old Ariana Greenidge enjoyed the break from the rigors of high school this summer, but it wasn’t all sun and fun for this inspired young woman. In pursuit of her Girl Scout Gold Award, Ariana spent a good part of her time off this summer tackling a big issue and coming up with a lasting solution. “The goal of my project, Savvy Girls, is to teach girls about how they can save and even make money using their skills and talents,” explains Ariana, who got the idea for her Gold Project by noticing how her little sister (Mia) spent rather than saved her money. “I also used to be a spender when I was younger,” admits Ariana. And since financial education isn't taught in school, she knew focusing her Gold Project on finances made sense. Representing the highest achievement in Girl Scouting, the prestigious Girl Scout Gold Award is open only to girls in high school and challenges them to change the world—or their corner of it—by identifying and solving a community problem and making a lasting impact for years to come. Only 6 percent of Girl Scouts nationwide complete the extensive process of earning their Gold Award. Completing the seven-step project, from identifying and researching an issue, building a team and taking action to educate and inspire, involves countless hours and investigation and qualifies girls for college scholarships for their efforts. The end goal of the project is to solve a community problem. Ariana created her project as a threepart workshop for girls and teens. “Part 1 covers why people struggle to save money, Part 2 shows how you can save money and Part 3 is how you can make your own money,” says Ariana, who plans to present the workshop to teens this month. Ariana assembled a team of expert speakers, including a bank representative, financial

12 Conejo Valley Lifestyle | September 2015

adviser and a small business owner, to share their expertise with workshop participants. “I don’t have to be the one to do all the speaking,” Ariana explains wisely. “I coordinated the experts." When she’s not working on making the world a better place, Ariana likes to play tennis, ride her bike, make jewelry and custom hair bows, play piano and practice speaking and writing Mandarin. During her 10 years as a Girl Scout, Ariana has participated in many community-minded projects, including hosting a sleepover camp, feeding homeless people and sewing dresses for young girls in Uganda. “I like all of the opportunities Girl Scouts gives me to help other people,” says Ariana, who looks to her parents as role models and for inspiration. “My parents are big role models to me, because they are really hard workers and do a great job at taking care of our family.” Her family includes her two younger sisters Cali and Mia. In the future, Ariana aspires to compose soundtracks and do concept art for Cirque du Soleil, or be an architect. Whatever she decides, chances are this motivated teen will succeed with flying colors.

• Girl Scouts USA comprises 10 million members in 145 countries, so Gold Awards have local—and global—impact. • Girl Scout Gold Award recipients report higher success in reaching their goals within many areas.

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Hot Spot

Aroha Restaurant Serves Up Great Taste ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BEN MALKIN

We pledge to publish restaurant reviews in Conejo Valley Lifestyle of only the restaurants we enjoyed and to carry advertising for restaurants that we would recommend to our friends and family. This goes for fine dining as well as for the more casual establishments.

irst off, let me say that while I’m not a restaurant writer or critic, I am a fairly good amateur chef, sometimes making me a bit of a pain to restaurants, because I expect fine dining establishments to prepare and present something better than I can do on my own. Is that fair? I think so, especially when the average check is usually $100 or more, not including the wine. This brings us to one of the more recent additions to fine dining in the Conejo Valley: Aroha New Zealand Cuisine, located in the restaurant cluster by the Residence Inn near Lindero Canyon Road and Russell Ranch Road in Westlake Village. Situated across the parking lot from the very busy and successful Lure Fish House, Aroha beckons. It’s very much worth it to hang a right instead of a left to do something different one night and dine at Aroha. Ever since Cigale Café in Oak Park closed after many years of being our “go to” local destination for outstanding French and Mediterranean cuisine and warm hospitality, Robin and I have been searching for a replacement. It looks like we’ve found it at Aroha, which meets and exceeds all of my standards, from great food and a unique menu (after all, how many New Zealand-themed menus are there?) to a pleasant dining environment including the hospitable owner and skilled chef, Gwithyen Thomas. We’ve eaten at Aroha several times, either as a couple or with friends (Robin and her book club friends all give the place rave reviews), and we’re always welcomed and comfortable, especially when we get the pleasure of dining in the outdoor patio. Table mates can talk to each other without having to shout to be heard over the din common in many restaurants. Aroha’s menu consists of locally sourced hand grown and predominantly organic produce, free-range and grass-fed organic meats and fresh seafood less than 48 hours out of the water flown in directly from New Zealand. Dedicated to providing a welcom14 Conejo Valley Lifestyle | September 2015

ing and safe environment for all of their customers, Aroha offers menu choices for those with dietary restrictions, including gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, lactose-intolerant and low sodium options. For lunch one day, I focused on the Steak and Cheese Pie. This is New Zealand Chef Gwithyen’s take on comfort food from my childhood. Beef baked in a crisp pastry topped with cheddar cheese and truffle, plus tomato chutney, and so wonderful and filling that I skipped dinner that evening. Also look for their One Square Meal lunch special Tuesday through Friday, featuring the daily special and a salad, side and dessert for only $15. Aroha also offers a Sunday Brunch we’re looking forward to trying out soon. For dinner, I recommend Chef Gwithyen’s wonderful and perfectly prepared Roasted Vine Tomato Confit Duck Risotto in basil pesto (the best risotto I’ve ever had!), New Zealand Cloudy Bay Clams in a white wine garlic broth and Kawakawa Marinated Chicken in a citrus emulsion. I have yet to try Gwithyen’s award-winning Horopito Crusted New Zealand Venison, which I’m saving for my next dinner visit. Their wine list is reasonably priced and offers a mix of New Zealand and California wines, with a few French and Italian wines offered as well. On Tuesdays, Aroha offers a free BYOB corkage. We’re so happy to have a new “go to” local dining destination. We hope to run into you there sometime. Bon appétit, or as they say in New Zealand, “Kia mākona!” Aroha New Zealand Cuisine is located at 30990 Russell Ranch Road in Westlake Village, California 91361. Contact them at 805.405.5054 or online at ArohaRestaurant.com.

Casual Fine Dining. You’re Always Welcome. WHAT IS NEW ZEALAND CUISINE?

Back in New Zealand, whether surrounded by the backdrop of the Auckland harbour or the rolling hills of green grass and the smell of feijoa trees, locals are accustomed to fresh and organic meals at home and at the local restaurants. In one of Auckland City’s top restaurants or at the nearby pizza bar, dining out is not just another outing but a oneof-a-kind experience complete with top quality ingredients, beautifully plated dishes, and most importantly, an environment designed for the laid back Kiwi lifestyle. Many restaurants flaunt their trustworthy kitchens with open passes, allowing the customers to view the chefs from their seats. While a typical United States kitchen relies on pepper and other strong seasonings, the Kiwi chef prepares dishes designed to emphasize the natural flavor of the food and allow those flavors to pop.

ORGANIC, FRESH, & ALLERGY FRIENDLY.

Our menu consists of locally sourced handgrown and predominantly organic produce; free-range and grass-fed organic meats; and fresh seafood that’s flown in directly from New Zealand and served less than 48 hours fresh out of the water. Our kitchen and waitstaff are dedicated to providing a welcoming and safe environment for guests with allergies and dietary restrictions. Whether you’re gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, vegetarian, or otherwise, our chefs are always happy to accomodate you without sacrificing the flavors of the dish.

“SPECTACULAR TASTES... EXQUISITE FOOD!” - The Acorn

“FASCINATING AND DELICIOUS” - Ventura County Star

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16 Conejo Valley Lifestyle | September 2015

Community Outreach Programs Bring Arts To All

ARTICLE TRACY MARCYNZSYN

or more than 30 years, Cabrillo Music Theatre’s talented and professional casts have been entertaining the community through popular and classical Broadway-style theatre performances. Currently in its 22nd season, “A Season for all Seasons,” CMT proudly presents three new shows—Children of Eden, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum and The Little Mermaid—and a returning favorite—Damn Yankees, which kicks off the 2015-2016 season in October. Demonstrating its deep-seated commitment to community well-being, CMT dedicated its current season to the community. “We're back after an ambitious fundraising campaign, and we're only around because of the support of our subscribers, donors and community partners," says CMT's Artistic Director Lewis Wilkenfeld. “The community really came through for Cabrillo Music Theatre. And, now, it's our turn to come through with four great shows." All of Cabrillo's productions are locally produced, auditioned and rehearsed in Southern California and performed exclusively at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza. With a show scheduled for each season, CMT promises a year full of joyful entertainment. The nonprofit music theatre aims to make the arts accessible to everyone, believing arts are fundamental to our humanity. Thus, for more than two decades, in addition to its spectacular performances, CMT has been providing no-cost educational and entertainment events to the community through its Beyond the Footlights community outreach programs. Leveraging its vast community of volunteers and professional talent, Cabrillo Music Theatre’s free community programs involve people from all backgrounds and ages to engage and explore music education and entertainment. Since 2005, Beyond the Footlights programs have crossed age and socio-economic barriers to bring the arts to more than 65,000 community members free of charge.

“The Arts are a great equalizer,” says CMT’s Director of Development and Community Engagement Maureen Feldman. “When people from different backgrounds share the experience of a live performance, there is a unifying effect. For two to three hours they’re all taking the same journey.” In 2014 alone, Cabrillo Music Theatre provided tickets, entertainment and outreach services to more than 82 local organizations, including hundreds of home-bound seniors at 14 senior centers, U.S. military members and their families and more than 2,000 low-income children attending Title 1 schools. A recent grant from the City of Thousand Oaks will help Cabrillo Music Theatre expand its community outreach by 25 percent and further its mission to “foster educational opportunities, promote cultural and artistic enrichment, and enhance the quality of life in our community through artistic opportunities to all populations and demographics regardless of ability to pay.” Beyond theatre performances, Cabrillo Music Theatre’s volunteers logged 30,972 hours entertaining or helping community members explore and experience the musical arts through outreach programs with local organizations, including the Boys & Girls Clubs, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, the Ventura County Naval Base, Title 1 schools, senior centers and several pet rescue and adoption services. “Really, really, really fun,” is how 12-year-old Ashley Thomas describes the experience of taking part in CMT’s August performance of Oklahoma! “I learn so much being on stage with professional actors and I also love having fun backstage with my friends. I love the theatre and plan to be in theatre forever." As a member of Kabrillo Kids, an educational theatre experience CMT offers for kids and teens, Ashley and 9-year-old sister Taylor enjoy entertaining home-bound seniors at the many senior centers the group visits. CONTINUED >

CABRILLO MUSIC THEATRE (CONTINUED) SENIORS

Through programs like Kabrillo Kids, Cabrillo Music Theatre’s Beyond the Footlights outreach programs serve hundreds of semi or completely immobile senior citizens by bringing entertainment on site at 14 senior living organizations for seniors whose health issues make it difficult for them to attend stage productions. CMT also provides subsidized tickets and special mid-morning matinees specifically for the senior members of our society. “It feels like the whole world is lit up, seeing the joy on people’s faces when we perform for them,” says Ashley. “It makes us happy, to make people smile.” The key to a successful performance, advises Taylor, who also intends to be in the theatre “forever,” is to “Be happy, smile and have a good time.” The many educational and social benefits gained through participating in Kabrillo Kids are pretty rewarding, says Ginny Grady, who witnessed them firshand when her own daughter Tessa took part in Cabrillo Music Theatre for 10 years. Now serving as the director of the Children’s Division for CMT, Grady views her job as a way of giving back. “I have the best job in the world,” says Ginny. “Watching the lightbulbs go on when they understand it’s not them on stage, but a character,” is one of her favorite aspects of the job. “The kids are like little beams of light.” For more information about Cabrillo Music Theatre, call 805.497.8613.

Cabrillo Music Theatre’s 2015-2016 22nd season, “A Season for all Seasons,” presents: • October 16-25, 2015 Damn Yankees • J anuary 29-February 14, 2016 A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum • April 8-17, 2016 Children Of Eden • July 15-24, 2016 The Little Mermaid For tickets or ticket information, please call the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza Box Office at 805.449.2787. The Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza is located at 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks.

LOW-INCOME CHILDREN

Dedicated to providing arts and arts education to all youth, Cabrillo Music Theatre provides thousands of free theatre tickets for students in Title I schools and youth organizations, like the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Greater Conejo Valley and the West San Fernando Valley and Big Brothers and Big Sisters. In this way, CMT introduces new generations to live Broadway-style productions, allowing them to experience the excitement and joy of live theatre enhancing community well-being. “The community partnership between the Boys & Girls Clubs and Cabrillo Music Theatre will allow students interested in the arts access to live performances four times a year, free of charge, which is in line with our mission of making the arts accessible to everyone,” said CMT’s Director of Development & Community Engagement Maureen Feldman. “This is an excellent opportunity for kids to enjoy the theater that otherwise couldn't afford it,” says Boys & Girls Club of Greater Conejo Valley’s Director of Operations Jennifer Wissusik. West Valley Boys & Girls Club President and CEO Jan Sobel agrees. “The Boys and Girls Club of the West Valley's theater arts program will truly be enhanced by the experience the kids will have to see live theater.” U.S. MILITARY

In honor of Cabrillo Music Theatre's commitment to the military, CMT produces a USO-style Variety show each year at the Ventura County Naval Base, exclusively for the military and their families at no charge. 18 Conejo Valley Lifestyle | September 2015

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Barriers

Inspiring young man speaks from experience.

ARTICLE MIRA REVERENTE | PHOTOGRAPHY CHAD E. STEEL

“The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity.” - Amelia Earhart Paul Griffin’s love for airplanes and his tenacious nature brings Amelia Earhart among others, to mind. The 28-year-old was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome at age 12. Prior to that, some teachers and others he interacted with, including a summer camp counselor, had given up on him, labelling him “mentally challenged” or “uncooperative.” 22 Conejo Valley Lifestyle | September 2015

“It was touch and go in elementary school,” says his mom, Marsha Griffin. “There were some fabulous and supportive teachers who filled all the holes - there was one we nicknamed the Swiss cheese teacher because of that - and then there were those ones who quickly dismissed Paul’s capabilities to finish middle school, then high school.” At Agoura High School, his mom recalled some teachers didn’t want Griffin in college preparatory classes, but she lobbied for it.

He graduated from Agoura High School with a 3.8 GPA and went on to major in sociology, graduating from University of California-Santa Barbara in 2012. “It paved the way for many others. Before Paul came along, the school district didn’t even have a program in place for children with Asperger’s Syndrome since so little was written up about it pre-Google search, in the 90s,” says Marsha, who also has a daughter four years younger than Paul. “No one had ever heard of Asperger’s before,” says Paul, recalling one school aide’s innocent question to his mom, "What is Asperger’s?" It was at UCSB, at the Koegel Autism Center, that Paul experienced breakthrough therapies under the direction of Dr. Lynn Koegel. Marsha recalled Paul going through video modeling to identify areas of improvement, such as eye contact, while in conversation with a clinician. Paul also recalled his daily living checklist back then which provided much-needed structure to college life. Simple things such as setting a daily alarm has helped his routine to this day. Fast forward to 2015, Paul accepts speaking engagements around the state, having been recently invited to speak at UCSB, California State University-Channel Islands and Stan-

ford University, about autism spectrum disorders and breaking down barriers to success. “Autism is a spectrum," explains Marsha. "Just like any disability, people’s expectations should be based on a person’s ability.” Paul works with a speech coach in fine-tuning his message and getting his struggles and success with autism across to a rapt audience of students and academia. “At Stanford, he was the only non-Ph.D. on the docket and he was mobbed after. People were just so eager to talk to him,” says Marsha.

“I want people to know that success is possible. It just takes hard work and time,” he says. “Don’t listen to the naysayers who think you won’t succeed.” Part of his core speech are his three pillars of success: find a strong, motivated advocate in your life; set high expectations and find the resources necessary and use it to the fullest. He sees himself expanding his speaking tour, fine-tuning his blog (SuccessOnTheAutismSpectrum.com), owning income-generating commercial real estate in the future, flying or riding high on horses or airplanes, and continuing to break down any barriers in his way.

September 2015 | Conejo Valley Lifestyle

Healthy Lifestyle

3 Keys to Good Health COMPLETE HEALTH INVOLVES 3 ESSENTIALS

ARTICLE TRACY MARCYNZSYN

aintaining health and well-being requires attention to three key areas: nutrition, emotions and the nervous system. Assessing and addressing this health triad leads to complete, long-lasting health, says Alan Duben, D.C., who focuses on treating the whole person at his Westlake Village practice, Duben Chiropractic & Kinesiology. Healthy people know the secret to true lasting health involves more than the physical and includes a lifestyle comprised of good nutrition, balanced emotions and a properly functioning nervous system, says Duben, noting that each of these elements affect the other and one’s overall health. “I guide patients to build health,” says Duben, who helps patients strengthen and heal their bodies structurally, nutritionally and emotionally, using his expertise in chiropractic, applied kinesiology, nutritional therapy and Neuro Emotional Technique (NET). Starting with the structural, Duben assesses the nervous system by looking at one’s movement, coordination and balance to gain insight into the overall health of the organs, glands and emotions. Using principles of applied kinesiology, Duben can identify problems with structural alignment that can affect nerve impulses and re-align the body with chiropractic adjustments. Even the most well-aligned body also needs vitamins and nutrients to ensure its health. Whole food nutrition and concentrated

24 Conejo Valley Lifestyle | September 2015

whole food supplements are the “foundations of nutritional health,” says Duben, who advises people to avoid “fake foods” that are packaged and processed, as they can lead to nutritional deficiencies and disease. It is often the case that allergies, colds and flus are the result of nutritional deficiencies. A simple nutrient screening can determine the level of vitamins and nutrients your body is receiving and evaluate any nutritional deficiencies that need to be corrected. The holistic health approach also addresses one’s emotional well-being, which is a part of most health concerns, says Duben. Using the effective Neuro Emotional Technique (NET), Duben is able to backtrack to the age of origin of an emotional issue and help the body release ingrained, negative emotional patterns. Once these old emotional patterns are released, so often is the physical health problem, explains Duben, and the body quickly returns to full vitality. Balancing our bodies, eating well and addressing our emotions, says Duben, are essential to restoring and maintaining good health and well-being. Ensure your best health by scheduling an assessment with Dr. Duben at 805.494.1339 and ensure a thriving and healthy lifestyle for years to come. Duben Holistic Chiropractic Center is located at 3625 East Thousand Oaks Blvd., in Westlake Village, or visit his website, DocDuben.com.

Hops & Vine

Malibu Wine Country in Our Own Backyard

A SAMPLING OF MALIBU WINERIES: Rosenthal - The Malibu Estate 18741 Pacific Coast Highway Tasting Room, Events Private Tours by Arrangement 310.456.1392 Malibu Wines 31740 Mulholland Highway Tasting Room, Events, Tours 818.865.0605 Cielo Malibu Estate Vineyard 2598 Sierra Creek Rd. Tasting Room and Events 818.865.0440

ARTICLE BEN MALKIN

f you enjoy fine wine and the hospitality that usually accompanies winery visits…or just sourcing local wineries, then you need look no further than a pleasant drive down Kanan Road into Malibu wine country. Before I go any further, let me say you can find great wine even closer to home at the Sunland Vintage Winery tasting room on Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Thousand Oaks and enjoy the wines and hospitality offered by Mike and Debbie Giovinazzo. I will confess to really enjoying fine wines, without necessarily being a wine snob. A trip to Napa, Sonoma, Los Olivos or Paso Robles is always great fun around harvest season. But did you know that we have wineries right in our own backyards, some with public tasting rooms and by-appointment visits, turning out world-class wines? Most of them source their wine from Malibu vineyards located from Los Angeles County up to Ventura County. For my palate, I particularly enjoy the reds, especially Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. You can also find excellent Chardonnay to accompany lighter dishes. While a few of the wineries listed below offer tasting rooms open to the public, finding several of the premium labels is easy at Pavilions/ Vons stores (the best selection of wine in a supermarket) and in wine and beverage specialty stores throughout the Conejo Valley. Cheers!

26 Conejo Valley Lifestyle | September 2015

Cornell Winery 29975 Mulholland Highway Tasting Room/Restaurant 818.735.3542 Church Estate Vineyard 6415 Busch Drive Private Events 310.457.0600 Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards 340 Kanan Rd. Private Events & Tastings through Wine Club Membership 877.676.7660 Malibu Coastal Vineyards 34033, Pacific Coast Highway 310.457.1153 Colcanyon Estate Wines 2375 Latigo Canyon Road 908.247.7565 Malibu Sanity Wines Vineyard Tours by Arrangement

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September

Lifestyle Calendar

SEPTEMBER 3

SEPTEMBER 12

TANTALIZING THURSDAY

TASTE OF LOCAL EXPO

SUNLAND VINTAGE WINERY

CSU CHANNEL ISLANDS

Tantalizing Thursdays take place at Sunland Vintage Winery, featuring award-winning wines and delicious food. Enjoy $5 glasses of wine and Confusion Gourmet Food Truck's mouthwatering cuisine. Don't miss Cousin's Maine Lobster Truck (as seen on Shark Tank) and $5 glasses of wine on Sept. 17. SunlandVintageWinery.com

As part of the 3rd annual Ventura County Agricultural Summit, the Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office offers the Taste of Local Exposition for the first time. Ventura’s epicurean event showcases top-line chefs who emphasize locally sourced produce, premier local wineries, breweries, distillers, purveyors, farmers and vendors that support the Ventura County agricultural industry. VenturaCountyAgSummit.com

SEPTEMBER 5 13TH ANNUAL VENTURA NATIONALS CAR AND MOTORCYCLE SHOW VENTURA COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

There's fun for all at the car/motorcycle show, featuring live music, vendors, food and more. $15 admission. Active military with valid ID $10 Children 12 and under are free. VenturaNationals.com

SEPTEMBER 5 34TH ANNUAL MALIBU KIWANIS CHILI COOK-OFF, CARNIVAL AND FAIR CIVIC CENTER WAY AND STUART RANCH ROAD, MALIBU

This traditional Labor Day weekend event runs through September 7th and features mouthwatering chili, carnival rides, live entertainment, a silent auction, food and vendors. Admission is $10 per person. MalibuKiwanisChiliCookoff.com

SEPTEMBER 11 FINALLY FRIDAY! SUNLAND VINTAGE WINERY

Enjoy award-winning wines and entertaining surprises at Sunland Vintage Winery's Finally Friday! event. Tony Ybarra, Flamenco Latin Guitarist entertains. Bring your own picnic or order dinner from a variety of local restaurants that deliver right to your table. On Sept. 25, Finally Friday! presents Kevin Longden. SunlandVintageWinery.com

SEPTEMBER 12 & 13 VENTURA MARATHON & WEEKEND BEACH PARTY VENTURA PIER

This 2-day event features fun for the whole family, including a Boston Marathon-qualifying marathon, half marathon, 5K, Kids Fun Runs, bike rides, live bands, beer garden, arts & crafts, food and more. The flat, fast and scenic course ends with an epic beach finish. Preregister at VenturaMarathon.com. 28 Conejo Valley Lifestyle | September 2015

SEPTEMBER 12 CANINE CASABLANCA: A RESCUE AFFAIR CAMARILLO AIR FORCE MUSEUM

Ventura County Animal Services first Annual Gala helps raise money for homeless animals at VCAS no-kill shelters and a Puppy Playground. Hollywood celebrities, an art show, dinner, dancing and a live auction will entertain animal lovers from throughout Southern California. VCAS.us/gala

SEPTEMBER 18 BONNIE BOWDEN IN THE PARK JUAN BAUTISTA DE ANZA PARK, CALABASAS

Bonnie Bowden sings legendary hits at her free concert in the park, hosted by the City of Calabasas. “It will be like a mini Hollywood Bowl event right in our own backyard,” says Bowden. Guests should plan to arrive early and bring picnic dinners, wine, chairs and blankets.

SEPTEMBER 19 COASTAL CLEANUP DAY VENTURA PROMENADE

The Coastal Cleanup Day is a great opportunity to help out in the community by cleaning up our local beaches and inland waterways. Just three hours in the morning spent removing debris and trash from our beaches and waterways makes a big difference. Choose from more than 20 clean-up sites to participate. VCCoastCleanup.org CONTINUED >

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Lifestyle Calendar

(CONTINUED)

SEPTEMBER 19 & 20 12TH THOUSAND OAKS ARTS FESTIVAL THOUSAND OAKS CIVIC ARTS PLAZA AND THE LAKES

This two-day, free festival features more than 60 visual art exhibitors, live performances and children's hands-on artistic and interactive art exhibits, as well as wine tasting at The Lakes. TOArtsFestival.com

The Access to Care campaign provides access to health care for all Americans, including those who are uninsured and underinsured. MakingStridesWalk.org

SEPTEMBER 26 & 27 24TH ANNUAL CALIFORNIA LEMON FESTIVAL IN GOLETA GIRSH PARK, GOLETA

The Craft Beer Heaven features beers on tap, food trucks and live music throughout the day. Food from local food vendors and ice cold craft beer will be available for purchase. CaliforniaBeerFestival. com/ventura.php

The 24th event features family fun, sumptuous lemon food, entertainment and activities, including pie-eating contests, arts and crafts vendors, petting zoo and rides. Saturday hosts the 10th Annual Goleta Fall Classic Car and Street Rod Show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday includes the Goleta Education Foundation Lemon runs. LemonFestival.com

SEPTEMBER 19

SEPTEMBER 26

"THE MIRACLE OF MOVEMENT"

SENIOR CONCERNS

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SEPTEMBER 19 CALIFORNIA BEER FESTIVAL MISSION PARK, VENTURA

Nonprofit's FIT 4 THE CAUSE™ first creative black tie soiree pays tribute to obstacle smashers who break down barriers everyday. Speakers, dinner and a silent auction support the organization's mission to support health needs through fitness motivation and wellness education. Fit4theCause.org

SEPTEMBER 20

Relive the sights, sounds and music of Motown at the 30th annual fundraiser. Enjoy a selection of chef specialties and wine from old favorites and new restaurants, wineries and breweries in the Hyatt garden, live and silent auctions and entertainment by the Blue Breeze Band. Reservations suggested for the sure-to-sell-out event. SeniorConcerns.org

CALIFORNIA BLUES AND BREWS FESTIVAL

SEPTEMBER 26

MISSION PARK, VENTURA

PAINT & SIP AT SUNLAND

Bring your chairs and blankets to this family-friendly event and sip cold craft beer while enjoying an amazing blues lineup on two stages. Food from local food vendors and iced craft beer will be available for purchase. Children 12 and under FREE. CaliforniaBeerFestival.com/ventura.php

VINTAGE WINERY

SEPTEMBER 20 BOYS & GIRLS CLUB 4TH ANNUAL TRACK MEET AGOURA HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley's 4th annual track meet features fun events for all athletic levels. Kids ages 3-10 can build self-confidence, self-esteem and improve physical conditioning and learn Olympic Field events through participation! BGCConejo.org

SEPTEMBER 26 MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER 5K WALK THOUSAND OAKS CIVIC ARTS PLAZA

Support the American Cancer Society in a non-competitive 5K scenic morning walk to promote awareness of how to help lawmakers prioritize finding a cure for cancer the highest priority. 30 Conejo Valley Lifestyle | September 2015

SUNLAND VINTAGE WINERY

Red Brick Gallery and Sunland Vintage Winery present a fun evening of painting paired with wine sipping. No previous art experience is needed to learn simple acrylic painting techniques to create your own unique work of art. RedBrickArt.com/paintingparty/paint-sip-sunland

SEPTEMBER 27 OJAI CONCERT SERIES - "CARLOS NUNEZ" DANCING OAK RANCH

The four-piece band led by the world’s most famous bagpipes player packs their shows with high energy, humor, and imagination. Support community culture and live performances. Come early and enjoy a potluck dinner. Bring chairs, blankets and a flashlight and sit by the bonfire while listening to music. OjaiConcertSeries.com

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ANIMALS & ANIMAL CARE

business directory

Paw Hills (818) 889-7387 pawhills.com

AUTOMOTIVE

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS

NHance Revolutionary Wood Renewal (805) 491-2930 nhance.com/venturacounty

Infiniti of Thousand Oaks (805) 494-1200 infinitiofthousandoaks.com

System Pavers (844) 728-3226 systempavers.com

Premier Coach (805) 373-7366 premiercoachautocollision.com

Tailored Living, featuring Premier Garage (805) 988-0900 tailoredliving.com/ventura

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

HEALTH & WELLNESS BioDental Healing (805) 375-2233 biodentalhealing.com

Hill Top Dental (818) 865-8651 hilltopdentalcare.com

Danmer Custom Window Coverings (888) 233-8598 danmer.com/CVL The Sofa Guy (805) 497-3222 thesofaguy.com The Drapery Guy & More (818) 707-8500 thedraperyguy.net

Wholesale Design Warehouse (805) 654-4593 wdwventura.com

The Agency (818) 237-9426 johnpjacksonre.com

MEDICAL CLINICS & FACILITIES

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE

Duben Holistic Chiropractic Center (805) 494-1339 docduben.com Los Robles Hospital (877) 888-5746 losrobleshospital.com

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE

Chase Financial Corp. (818) 730-7200 chasefinancial.com Rosemary Allison Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage (805) 491-2100 callrosemary.com

Aroha Restaurant (805) 405-5054

SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES Horizons at Calabasas (866) 884-0683 horizonsatcalabasas.com

Meadowbrook Senior Living (818) 514-5041 meadowbrook-agourahills.com

SPECIALTY SHOPS Luna Gardens (805) 230-1010 lunagardensevents.com

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

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Dr. Alan P. Duben Dr. Lindsay Erickson Structural, Nutritional and Emotional Chiropractic Therapies

Duben Holistic Chiropractic Center DocDuben.com • 805-494-1339 32 Conejo Valley Lifestyle | September 2015

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Hunter Douglas Showroom • Entire product line including the Alustra collection • Motorization controlled by your mobile devices • Numerous working samples at your finger tips • ANSI child safety standard • Lifetime Warranties • Certified Installers

(818) 707-8500 • thedraperyguy.net • 31133 Via Colinas #101 Westlake Village, CA 91362 September 2015 | Conejo Valley Lifestyle

Parting Thoughts

Mobilize the Forces WORDS LISA COOKE HARRISON

uring a recent 12-hour drive, I was able to spend the better part of a day listening to one of my very favorite voices. Tom Brokaw narrated his book, The Time of Our Lives, as I drove my boys through several states as we made our way to our vacation destination. My boys were plugged into their gizmos, and it felt like Mr. Brokaw was sitting next to me. What a great way to spend a day! More than anything, the book’s subtitle appealed to the former history teacher in me: A Conversation about America: Who We Are, Where We've Been, and Where We Need to Go Now, to Recapture the American Dream. Brokaw offered spot-on advice, advice from which I believe all politicians could learn. Much like he did in "Our Greatest Generation," he shared stories with lessons and values I admire. One suggestion that stuck with me, and which buzzed around in my head for a few weeks, was the idea that we have an entire generation of the most-qualified volunteers this nation has ever seen. I’m convinced we could solve many of our nation’s problems with the help of our retired friends and neighbors. They could

34 Conejo Valley Lifestyle | September 2015

help educate, mentor, lead and advise in the classrooms, clubs and community centers of our cities. They are an excellent pool of potential volunteers. There’s an 80-year-old woman who is a member of our church who remains active in international mission projects, traveling at least once a year to remote corners of the world to do good. One of my retired neighbors recently hiked Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money for a charity near to her heart. My father continues to lead his Rotary group and several community and church committees as he approaches his 70th birthday. Rarely a day goes by that he doesn’t have a committee meeting of some kind. I often comment that I want to be just like these folks when I grow up. What I really mean is that I hope to do as they are doing when I am retired and have more time under my control. So here’s hoping my garden doesn’t look any better and my floors aren’t any cleaner after I retire. Here’s hoping that instead, I’m making a difference right here in our community in a way that matters just a little bit more.

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