Issuu

Hedi Gross and Michelle Feinstein A tale of two sisters

Fall Education Directory Educate, Empower, Enrich

Inspirational People

How theyâ€™ve touched our community

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Note from the

r o t i Ed

lthough summer has come to an end, living in Southern California gives us the opportunity to still enjoy dinners al fresco with a fireplace lit for ambience. Pumpkin-spice lattes are coming back on menus, but iced teas still sound refreshing and delightful. “Back to School” is in full swing, and so, we bring you our “Education, Empowerment, and Enrichment” section, covering the best schools, classes, and programs to help you plan ahead for this year and the years to come. “Tech Talk” this month helps parents decipher the crazy world of smartphones and, more importantly, all that is social media. Marc gives an in-depth look at each app, including the benefits and dangers. With your kids back in school, routines once again become the much-needed norm for making sure priorities are taken care of and structure is established. In our “Ideas for AfterSchool Routines,” you can find inspiration and ideas on what works best in your household. We are honored to feature sisters Hedi Gross and Michelle Feinstein in this issue. Hedi and Michelle both tested positive for the BRCA mutation. These strong and brave sisters share how their lives quickly became ever-more woven together and how they were able to gain control over their futures. September and October are both cancer-awareness months that bring attention to 10 types of cancer, including childhood cancer, gynecologic cancer, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, leukemia, lymphoma, ovarian cancer, thyroid cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, and liver cancer. We feature over four articles on cancer, including: “Surviving Cancer: Controlling the Uncontrollable,” “Skin Cancer: Who’s at Risk?” “The Kevin Cordasco Foundation: Something Yellow”, and “Fran Drescher Turns Pain into Purpose with Cancer Schmancer.”

Irene Marshall, Editor stylepublishing@gmail.com

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PUBLISHER Gayle Barnes EDITOR Irene Marshall CREATIVE DIRECTOR Elissa Linick ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Linda Perry ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVE Deborah Ryback EDITORIAL AND ACCOUNT COORDINATOR Sasha Lewis STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Marvin Steindler CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Debbie Vaccarello Gia Garganese Melissa Westervelt STAFF WRITERS Elena Richards Elizabeth Hunter CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Beth Cone Kramer Dr. Anna Guanche Dustin Troyan Lori Berezin Marc Cohen Mark Wendell Pax Ansley Tammy Randall Wood CALENDAR EDITOR Amanda Ragatz COPY EDITOR Nicole Schubert ACCOUNTING Karen Dafesh SUBSCRIPTIONS $18 per year ADVERTISING & INFORMATION 310.494.6250 stylepublishing@gmail.com calabasasstyle.com 860 Hampshire Rd., #H Westlake Village, CA 91361

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Uncorked

AT THE VILLAGE AT WESTFIELD TOPANGA

Parents, friends, and shoppers came together to sip some of the Malibu Coast’s finest vintages and savor delectable nibbles amongst live acoustic per formances during Uncorked: Sip. Shop. Savor at The Village at Westfield Topanga – a beautiful new open-air shopping, dining, and lifestyle destination in Woodland Hills with more than 70 shops and restaurants. This exclusive event benefiting The Foundation for Las Virgenes Schools, featured delicious bites from the Restaurant Collection at The Village, beautiful wine gardens showcasing premier Malibu Coast AVA Wineries (including a beer garden with Ballast Point Brewery), and fun shopping perks. Participating restaurants from The Village included Larsen’s Steakhouse, XOC Tequila Grill, Jimmy’s Famous American Tavern, Cava Mezze Grill, Eureka!, Veggie Grill, The Slaw Dogs, and SusieCakes. Participating wineries included Cielo Malibu Estate Vineyard, Montage Vineyard, NABU Wines, Principe Vineyards, Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards, Dolin Malibu Estate Vineyards, South Slope Malibu, Rosenthal The Malibu Estate, and Wish Vineyards.

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Readers... From our

Calabasas Style receives many phone calls, emails, Instagram comments, and Facebook posts from our readers. We would like to share some of them with you. “I’m anxiously waiting to get the magazine in the mail! I’m a fan! When does it usually come in the mail? I already looked online and can’t wait for the hard copy to come.” ~ Julia Goodman

“It all depends on USPS, but you should expect it between the 1st and the 7th!” ~ CSM

“I love the ‘Simple Summer Activities Checklist’, I plan to do every one!” ~ Calabasas Resident “I love the article ‘Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder’ because it has apps for everything! I have trouble thinking of exercises when I am at home and with this Sworkit app, I can watch, exercise, and no more excuses! Shopkick, great idea. Saves time shopping, I get what I need and better yet, it’s on sale. I can see what’s on sale by just using this app! A lot of ideas, great article, love it!!” ~ Karen DaFesh “I used to receive Calabasas Style magazine in the mail, but always disregarded it because I thought it was targeting a younger audience. One day I decided to open it up and found an ad for Fairwinds. If it wasn’t for your magazine, I wouldn’t be as happy as I am now living at Fairwinds.” ~ Fairwinds Resident “I just got my magazine and it looks great!!! I WANT this dress at Besitos!!!!” ~ Debbie Vaccarello “I just finished reading Calabasas Style. It’s an incredible issue. You did a fabulous job! Every article is wonderful, insightful, and interesting. The design element is perfect. You’re awesome!” ~ Hannah H. “I love the article ‘A Ranch Built from a Heart of Gold’... Thank you so much!” ~ Rose van Wier Hein “Thank you Calabasas Style magazine for the great coverage of our Uber Chic Fashion Gala to raise awareness and money for Cancer Schmancer.” ~ Jennifer Shultz

We want to hear from you! stylepublishing@gmail.com calabasasstyle.com 860 Hampshire Rd., #H Westlake Village, CA 91361 310.494.6250 Find us on Facebook: facebook.com/CalabasasStyle Instagram: @CalabasasStyleMagazine

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Table of CONTENTS Auto

Education

164 Ferrari California T 170 Rodeo Drive Concours

60 Educate, Empower, Enrich 78 Ideas for After-School Routines 82 Train Your Brain at any Age 100 Local Businesses Support

Calendar of Events 156 September 158 October 160 November

Community 32 Calabasas Film Festival 150 The Jewish High Holidays 168 Chamber News

Country Club Life 106

Calabasas Country Club

Cover Feature

Las Virgenes Schools

102 Love Them, but Protect Them

Fashion 46 Styles of the Season 48 Focus on: Fall

Financial 192 Investment Advisors: Worth the Fee?

Inspirational People 58 Donna Petracca 80 Michael Mottahedeh 130 Jesse London 162 Rabbi Paul Kipnes

for Brain Cancer

Dining

56 Calabasas TMS Center 112 Skin Cancer: Who’s at Risk? 116 Are you Hearing Your Best? 120 SoCal Sinus 124 Surviving Cancer

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136 Cabinetry 101 140 Décor 144 Sweet Dreams with Bront Mattress 148 Elegant Fireplace Mantels

108 The Kevin Cordasco Foundation 132 Hidden Hills Guys’ Ski Trip

Health & Fitness

Home Furnishings

Giving Back

26 A Tale of Two Sisters

166 Q Sushi 190 Wine & Dine

128 Cancer Schmancer 172 Ask the Pharmacist

ON THE COVER:

Hedi and Matthew Gross, Michelle and David Feinstein Photography by Marvin Steindler

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A Tale of Two Sisters: Testing Positive for BRCA Mutation By Pax Ansley Photography by Marvin Steindler

ver one million Americans are diagnosed with cancer each year. It is a merciless killer that doesn’t care who you are or where you come from. It can attach itself to genetic bloodlines or come out of nowhere. For the lucky ones, it can be overcome; for others, it takes them from this world. This is not a story about cancer. This is a story of two brave warriors. It is a story of two incredibly courageous sisters who took their future firmly into their own hands and refused to live in fear. It is the story of how their lives became beautifully and delicately intertwined, more than either of them could ever have imagined. It is February of 2014. Hedi Gross is scheduled for her annual mammogram. This year, however, the mammogram reveals a tiny pea-sized mass in her left breast. “Just a fatty cyst,” her doctor informs her, “Nothing to worry about.” After two more ultrasounds, the prognosis is the same. Nothing to worry about. With Hedi’s fears not exactly eradicated, she keeps the news of the lump to herself, sharing it only with her husband, Matthew.

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Fast forward to February of 2015. Hedi is back at her doctor’s office for her annual exam. This time, Hedi’s fears rush in like high tide. Her peasized cyst is now the size of a large jaw-breaker. This “fatty cyst” is now reason for concern. A needle biopsy is needed to establish the type of mass growing inside of Hedi’s breast. After six excruciating days of waiting, Hedi’s radiologist finally calls with the news. The mass in Hedi’s left breast is a Phyllodes tumor. Not cancer, but the tumor would continue to grow, therefore it needed to be removed. After hearing the news, Hedi prepares herself to meet with the best breast surgeons in the area, with Matthew and her mother, Sharon Goldberg, by her side. She is to have a lumpectomy on her left breast. A lumpectomy, an operation in which a surgeon removes a portion of the breast tissue containing the lump and surrounding affected tissue, is usually an outpatient surgery done under general anesthesia. They picked Dr. Kristi Funk of the Pink Lotus Breast Center who exceeded all of Hedi’s expectations. Not only does she answer all of Hedi’s questions with care and concern, but she discovers a connection that likely saves Hedi’s life, as well as the life of her

sister, Michelle Feinstein. Dr. Funk starts asking Hedi questions about her family history, not just her mother’s side, but her father’s side as well. She immediately notices that her father had been diagnosed with prostate cancer and a precancerous lesion on his pancreas. Her paternal grandfather also had prostate cancer. Dr. Funk carefully questions Hedi on her father’s family history of cancer and her Jewish heritage. “Has your father ever been tested for the BRCA gene?” Dr. Funk asked. This was a particularly important question as most people are not aware that they can get the BRCA gene mutation from your father just as easily as your mother. At the time, Hedi had no idea how this simple question is about to change her family’s lives forever. BRCA is a gene that every person is born with. To be considered positive for the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, those specific genes are mutated. These mutations greatly increase the carrier’s likeliness of certain kinds of cancer, such as breast, ovarian, prostate, pancreatic, and melanoma. It also means that the carrier’s body lacks the ability to fight off these cancers when they get them. The general public has an 8% chance of getting breast cancer by the age of 70. Those that are tested BRCA positive have up to an 87% chance. The general public has less than a 1% chance of getting ovarian cancer; with the BRCA gene mutations, that likelihood is raised to a 44% chance. By the time those with the mutation are diagnosed with cancer, it is likely too late to be stopped. One out of 40 of those with Eastern European Ashkenazi Jewish decent is at risk for the mutation. Those who have a family history of two or more cases of melanoma, breast, ovarian, prostate, or pancreatic cancers — either on their mother’s or father’s side — are also at risk. Over 90% of BRCA-positive carriers have no idea that they are carriers. Bottom line, everyone should be tested for the BRCA gene mutation, even though you are 12 times more likely to test positive if you’re Jewish. One in 500 in the general population tests positive for the gene.

“Don’t let the fear of the unknown stop you from doing what needs to be done,” advises Hedi. “Listen to your little voice. It is usually right.” When the times do get rough, “let people love you,” adds Michelle. “Allow yourself to lean on people. Gain your strength from the support of others.”

After Hedi’s visit with Dr. Funk, her father, Sid Goldberg, is tested for the BRCA gene mutation. He is positive. The results of this test have the potential to turn Hedi’s world upside down and also bring her sister into the equation. With Sid being positive for the BRCA gene mutation, the sisters each stand a 50% chance of being positive themselves. They know they need to be tested. Even before they meet with the genetics specialist of the Pink Lotus Breast Center to learn about the test and the BRCA gene, the sisters discuss the very real possibility of what would happen if they were positive. To both of them, their only choice is clear. They would choose to eliminate their risks of cancer by a process of elective surgeries. To Hedi and Michelle, to live with the fear of cancer looming over them is not to live at all. Continued on p. 28

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A Tale of Two Sisters: Testing Positive for BRCA Mutation

During their long recovery, their families offer remarkable support. Both sisters’ families and parents have been a part of the Calabasas community for years. In fact, they all live within a mile of each other. Both their father and mother help to take care of the households while the sisters are in recovery. The pair’s spouses, Matthew and David, are never far from their sides. These dedicated husbands could often be found sleeping in chairs at their wives’ bedsides. Michelle’s now 20-year-old son, Jordan — a sophomore at the University of Arizona — and her 17-year-old daughter, Carly — a senior at Calabasas High School — offer their mom unconditional love and support. Hedi is constantly surrounded by the love of her loyal and beautiful family, 17-year-old daughter Molly — a senior at Viewpoint — and twin 15-year-old boys, Sam and Josh. Both sophomores, Sam attends de Toledo and Josh goes to Viewpoint. Along with their families, Hedi and Michelle are amazed at how the Calabasas community comes together to blanket them in love during their time of need. From dinners made and delivered to their houses, to flowers and candy, to a simple foundation of love and support, the community of Calabasas lets its true colors shine. Shining especially bright in the community is their local temple, Congregation Or Ami, that checks on the sisters daily and has meals delivered. Both sisters have been very active in the temple for some time. Hedi serves as the immediate past president and Michelle is a long-standing former board member. Their father, Sid, is a current board member.

After 13 long, anxious days, and sleepless nights, the results of their tests come back. They are both positive for the BRCA2 mutation. As the sisters process their diagnosis, millions of thoughts swirl through their heads. Hedi confides, “I could feel the tears falling, but I was afraid of crying when I wanted to be strong and certain that this was a good thing — we were lucky.” They think of their families: their parents, husbands, and children. They also think of each other and the incredibly long and difficult journey ahead of them. They are grateful that they have each other to lean on. Over the course of many months, the sisters undergo five surgeries each. Three of which take place over a nine-day period. Each time, they never leave each others’ side. They are a self-proclaimed “package deal.” They are able to schedule their surgeries together, at most a week apart. As Michelle aptly puts it, “What’s happening to her is happening to me.” She then adds, “[Hedi] was and is ‘my person’. She was my rock — my greatest blessing.” Their first surgery is a nipple-saving biopsy, or a “nipple delay.” This allows them to keep their own natural nipple during the removal of their breasts. The sisters then both undergo an oophorectomy, performed by the talented gynecological oncologist Dr. Ilana Cass. This outpatient procedure removes their fallopian tubes and ovaries laparoscopically. Then comes the prophylactic bilateral mastectomy, a seven-hour surgery to remove both breasts, along with all breast tissue, performed by Dr. Kristi Funk and Dr. Charlotta La Via. This surgery requires an immediate reconstruction, along with a final reconstruction with permanent implants after a couple months of healing, performed by talented reconstruction plastic surgeon Dr. Charlotta La Via. That is five surgeries each, in all. Two sisters. One diagnosis. One incredible journey.

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Hedi and Michelle are now in full recovery. As Hedi puts it, “It’s in my rear-view mirror now.” These incredibly brave sisters are sharing their story to make a difference. As Michelle points out, “If it could happen to us, two sisters and a father, it could happen to you, too.” They stress the importance of annual checkups and education. Knowledge really is power. “Don’t let the fear of the unknown stop you from doing what needs to be done,” advises Hedi. “Listen to your little voice. It is usually right.” When the times do get rough, “let people love you,” adds Michelle. “Allow yourself to lean on people. Gain your strength from the support of others.” Since their surgeries, the sisters continue to take one day at a time. This situation has gifted them with a new hold on life. Because of these surgeries, Hedi and Michelle have lowered their risk of ovarian and breast cancer by 90%. No longer “ticking time bombs,” they have a new appreciation for life, health, and certainly, each other. And instead of the threat of cancer rainclouds in their future, their skies are blue as far as the eye can see. n If you know a great family or individual to profile, please contact us at: stylepublishing@gmail.com.

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NATALINE

Fashion

LEGACY IX

Photography by Debbie Vaccarello and Derrick Bracks Photography The 9th annual Nataline Sarkisyan Fashion Legacy was held at Mercedes Benz of Calabasas on July 9. Nataline had always dreamed of becoming a fashion designer/ fashion show producer, and being diagnosed with leukemia did not stop those aspirations. After her passing, her parents discovered her sketchbook which held pages and pages of her designs and sketches. These sketches were the main inspiration behind the Nataline Sarkisyan Foundation. With events like Nataline’s Fashion Legacy, the proceeds and generous donations help provide grant scholarships to eligible students attending a trade school such as a fashion or culinary learning institute, medical school, or photography school. The host of the inspirational evening was Anna Kachikyan, founder of “The Anna Report,” a popular online report and blog. Sponsors for this event included Mercedes Benz of Calabasas, New American Funding, Turbo Tires, White House Black Market, Macy’s, and Pol’ Atteu, to name a few.

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Calabasas Film Festival WHERE THE HEART OF FILM LIVES SEPTEMBER 21ST – SEPTEMBER 25TH

he Calabasas Film Festival has become another jewel in the crown for the City of Calabasas and the city’s commitment to providing quality events for the community. The Calabasas Film Festival event showcases major film premieres, student films, documentaries, and top-quality film selections from all genres that are guaranteed to entertain. This five-day event provides the community an opportunity to connect over mutual passions for film and television while enjoying local culinary arts and entertainment. The Calabasas Film Festival, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is headquartered in Calabasas — the heart of where

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film lives. That is evident by the large number of studio executives and key players in the entertainment industry and the avid film goers who call Calabasas home. The organization is also dedicated to honoring the future of the industry by empowering young filmmakers with a platform for outreach through student screenings and events. Tickets can be purchased online to attend any of the great screenings, including two major studio films and the amazing after parties. Join the fun for a day or for the week, as Calabasas proudly hosts the annual Calabasas Film Festival.

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FALLING FOR

Grayse

On Saturday, August 13, GRAYSE by Kelly and Marie Gray premiered their fall collection at Westfield Topanga. Guests were able to see the new fall fashions, pre-order select merchandise, and be the first to shop the new collection of casual and holiday attire. GRAYSE is a modern collection of specialty separates designed to dress women who love quality, luxury, and style. Each piece is designed with attention to detail and carefully fitted to ensure the most flattering silhouette. GRAYSE is located in the lower level of the Westfield Topanga Mall in the Luxury Court next to Neiman Marcus.

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3RD ANNUAL

Pageant 360 Photogrpahy by Marvin Steindler On June 18, 11 local young women participated in the 3rd annual Pageant 360 in Agoura Hills, an inner beauty movement to empower young people to take risks and help change the world. Pageant 360â€™s big debut took place in August 2014 in Calabasas. Carly Hartman, founder, made it a priority and point to make sure the structure of this event celebrated whole-beauty, empowerment, and inspiration. This year, 11 girls participated in the Pageant Showcase, while 25 girls attended the Inner Beauty Conference that hosted workshops on entrepreneurship, pursing your dreams, confidence, empowerment, public speaking, and health and wellness. The showcase was held at the Agoura Hills Event Center with an outcome of 110+ audience members who enjoyed food, vendors, photo booth fun, and an amazing night of entertainment. Pageant 360 is excited to announce they will introducing a second pageant next year which will be held in Texas. For more information, visit pageant360.com

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HYATT

Bridal

PREMIERE

Photography by Debbie Vaccarello On August 7 at the Westlake Village Hyatt, the Bridal Premiere offered a fun day filled with ideas, expert advice, and plenty of prizes for the lucky bride-to-be and her groom. Attendees met with over 80 wedding professionals who were ready to assist with all aspects of wedding planning, all while enjoying fashion that featured the latest in wedding attire. Future brides and grooms were encouraged to sample tasty treats from caterers and bakeries, be snapped at the photo booth, and register for thousands of dollars in door prizes. Now in its 33rd year, the Premiere is a taste of tradition, and one of the oldest and finest bridal shows in Southern California. The Bridal Premiere hosted a Facebook contest and one lucky winner received a $500 gift card towards any product or service by one of the exhibitors of Sundayâ€™s event. Future newlyweds also took joy in promotions and door prizes by each vendor at the show.

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S W E AT E R W E AT H E R Â» Lightweight, soft, and incredibly chic, thin cashmere is the ultimate fall wardrobe luxury.

BURBERRY PRORSUM

STELLA MCCARTNEY

LIPSTICK QUEEN

TOM FORD

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HAIDER ACKERMANN

Â« B O H E M I A N FA L L

Long dresses cut from silk crepe de chine and printed with beautiful flowers pair perfectly with laced dressy sandals.

PRADA

URIBE

SAINT LAURENT

ALEXANDRA BIRMAN

VILSHENKO Calabasas Style 47

FOCUS ON:

Fall BLUSH BOUTIQUE

BLUSH is fashion obsessed with the newest dresses, pants, and tops from Veronica M and Flying Monkey Jeans perfect for all occasions. Their great jewelry and accessories complete the look – all at amazing prices with new styles arriving every week! The Courtyard at The Commons 23671 Calabasas Rd. | Calabasas | 818.222.5874 | 1610 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. Thousand Oaks | 805.497.6100 | shopmyblush.com

HIGHKARAT At HIGHKARAT, consignment is always in style. You’ll find high-end designer handbags, shoes, watches, and jewelry at price points that make it an affordable luxury. You’ll find white-glove treatment if you are looking to consign and fabulous service when you are looking to buy! Westlake Village: By appointment only | 323.376.2841 info@highkarat | highkarat.com

SHARON SEGAL NINA SEGAL THE CLOSET With a full denim bar, jewelry atrium and personal stylists, Sharon Segal Nina Segal the closet has everything you need to get your closet ready for the season. This look features Burning Torch, Fairchild Baldwin, Rebecca Minkoff, Balenciaga Eyewear, and Hat Attack. The Promenade at Westlake 160 Promenade Way #E | Westlake Village | 805.777.7019

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BESITOS BOUTIQUE BESITOS BOUTIQUE is now open in Woodland Hills – and is bursting with fabulous new styles for fall. You’ll find a collection of fashions that will work for you for seasons to come. Enjoy the same personalized service — with plenty of free parking behind the store. 22567 Ventura Blvd., Woodland Hills | 818.591.7300 (Between Fallbrook and Shoup - Corner of Ventura Blvd. and Sale)

RUBY’S BOUTIQUE RUBY’S BOUTIQUE has perfect outfits to help you transition into fall with classic styles like this great dress by Karina Gramaldi and black pants by Krisa, plus Lisa Freede, Amber Elliot Design, and Kayu jewelry and bags. The Landing | 32123 Lindero Cyn. Rd., #108 Westlake Village | 818.889.0140

GRAYSE

BY KELLY AND MARIE GRAY GRAYSE by Kelly and Marie Gray is a modern collection of specialty separates designed to dress women who love quality, luxury, and style. You will love this black leather Moto jacket, and this gold shimmer pave tank dress for a sexy, glamorous, and sophisticated look. Westfield Topanga (Lower Level – Luxury Court next to Neiman Marcus) 6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd. | Canoga Park | 818.710.9940 | mkgrayse.com

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AN EVENING AT BLUSHINGTON FOR BEST BUDDIES Photography by Randy Shropshire/Getty Images Blushington Makeup & Beauty Lounge hosted An Evening at Blushington for Best Buddies on July 8 to celebrate inclusion, self-confidence, and inner beauty. Best Buddies is a nonprofit organization that enhances the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) by providing opportunities for socialization and employment. Best Buddies job participants received personalized, professional makeovers by the makeup artists at Blushington - empowering these women to feel and look beautiful in their own skin while building their confidence to feel interview ready. Attendees included Blushington co- founders and owners, Stephi and Nicki Maron, actor Harry Hamlin, his daughters Delilah Belle Hamlin and Amelia Gray Hamlin, Best Buddies participants, supporters, their families, and friends.

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Calabasas TMS Center:

Offers Hope for Treatment-Resistant Depression

By Beth Cone Kramer Photography by Marvin Steindler

ajor depression can be a disabling and potentially life-threatening disease. It’s important not to ignore the warning signs of serious distress in ourselves or those we care about. Loss of pleasure in ordinary activities, depressed moods that are persistent, needing alcohol or drugs to “feel better,” sleep disorders, or impulsive behavior are all symptoms that help is needed — sooner rather than later. Modern behavioral healthcare offers real hope to people suffering from depression. Calabasas psychiatrist, Dr. Mindy Werner-Crohn, and her team at Calabasas TMS Center, which includes three psychiatrists, two psychologists, a post-doctoral psychologist, and a full-service office staff, provide effective treatment for people with even the most severe depression.

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Just how common is depression? According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), major depressive disorder affected an estimated 15.7 million adults aged 18 or older in the United States in the past year. This number represented 6.7% of all U.S. adults. And as we know from the tragedy of suicide, not all people with the disorder “look depressed.” “A generation ago, the stigma of mental illness and psychiatric disorders prevented many people from getting the help they needed,” shares Dr. Werner-Crohn. “Our goal is to use the latest developments in psychotherapy, pharmacology, and brain stimulation (TMS) in order to help our patients overcome obstacles and lead more rewarding and meaningful lives.”

“Our goal is to use the latest developments in psychotherapy, pharmacology, and brain stimulation (TMS) in order to help our patients overcome obstacles and lead more rewarding and meaningful lives.”

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an innovative and breakthrough technology for helping patients who have not responded to psychotherapy and medication. This FDA-approved, non-invasive outpatient treatment has become widely available in the past five years and is increasingly covered by major health insurance policies. It has been shown to be safe and effective with patients who have not responded to other interventions. It has none of the systemic side effects of medications or memory problems associated with ECT. Under the direction of Dr. Werner-Crohn, an expert in treating depression and

anxiety disorders, Calabasas TMS Center has a unique approach to patient care through its “TMS Program for Success,” a comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate approach. Calabasas TMS Center is the only practice in the area to use both the Brainsway ™ and the NeuroStar ® TMS Therapy systems for patients suffering from depression who have not achieved satisfactory improvement from prior antidepressant treatment. Effective treatment involves a comprehensive approach, so the team consults with other providers to provide cutting-edge, collaborative care. The of-

fice also offers individual, couples, and family therapy, as well as assessment for ADHD using the innovative Quotient ® device. The mission of the office is to provide the very best behavioral healthcare for the entire family. n

Calabasas TMS Center & Calabasas Behavioral Health 23622 Calabasas Rd., #320 Calabasas 818.921.4300 info@calabh.com calabasastms.com

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Calabasas Costume Designer Treats Us to the Tricks of Her Trade

By Lori Berezin

Donna Petracca

alloween is to costume designers what Christmas is to toy makers (and elves). With the holiday fast approaching, one wonders what the latest trends will be. Creative costume designer and Calabasas resident, Donna Petracca observed, “When I started designing costumes 10 years ago, it was all about the sexy flight attendant, sexy nurse, etc. Now things have somewhat changed. The trend is toward costumes that empower women, such as mighty warriors and superheroes.” Petracca’s passion for costume design began at the early age of four when she crafted clothes for her Barbie doll. Since then, she has created stunning looks for such supermodels as Kathy Ireland and Claudia Schiffer. After graduating from New York City’s Pratt Institute, her career really got hot when she designed Ireland’s swimsuit for the renowned Sport’s Illustrated swimsuit edition. She later worked with inspirational fashion icons Gilda Marx and Paul Marciano of Guess.

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For the past decade, the successful designer has created costumes for the award-winning company Dreamgirl, based in Southern California. Always aiming to incorporate the latest trends, Petracca has traveled across the globe to find inspiration. Now, she finds much of it close to home. Her boyfriend, actor Vincent Irizarry, helps her gain access to the creators, actors, and production personnel at some of television’s top shows. She also researches upcoming movies, popular YouTube videos, and fashion runways for ideas. Her two grown children have even modeled her costumes in the Dreamgirl catalogue. She recently attended San Diego’s Comic-Con for inspiration, and to see what new characters are likely to be important next year. Petracca’s costumes are currently sold in over 40 countries through Dreamgirl. Not bad for a woman who began in fashion by designing outfits for her Barbie. Of course, Bob Mackie also designed for Barbie, so it is clearly a great place to start. n

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Educate F Empower Enrich

or most parents, there is nothing more important than their children’s education. If you are considering sending your child to a public, private, or alternative school, there’s no shortage of excellent choices in and around the area. We’ve identified some of the best preschools and elementary, middle and high schools locally, as well as some local colleges, and encourage you to research, visit, and apply. We’ve also selected some of the best venues offering exciting enrichment activities that allow children to be healthier, happier, and engaged in a safe and stimulating environment. All of these enrichment programs utilize age-appropriate materials and equipment for students with a desire to learn outside the classroom.

Calabasas Style shares the best schools, colleges, learning centers, activities, and resources as we start the new school year.

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We know that many children need tutoring to catch up or excel in certain academic areas, and both parents and students need professional help when it comes to navigating the college application process. We are fortunate that we live in an area that offers so many exceptional tutoring and consulting resources, and we encourage you to explore the companies we have highlighted. Our children are our community’s most precious resource. We feel fortunate for the opportunity to present you with this year’s Educational Resource Guide on all of the great resources available so close to home. n

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Educate CALIFORNIA LUTHERAN UNIVERSITY 60 W. Olsen Rd. Thousand Oaks, 91360 805.493.3135 callutheran.edu Cal Lutheran is an open-minded community of more than 4,000 scholars enrolled in traditional undergraduate, transfer, bachelor’s degree completion, and graduate programs. Students come from more than 60 countries, representing diverse backgrounds and faiths and creating a dynamic campus community. A Cal Lutheran education is affordable for students of all economic backgrounds. Last year, 97% of new undergraduate students received scholarships or grants, with an average financial aid package of $34,800. The Public Price Promise offers eligible students the opportunity to attend Cal Lutheran for the average cost of attendance of select University of California schools. Students work closely with faculty in classes that are optimally sized for active participation and experiential learning. They can also participate in faculty-led research, service learning, study abroad, 21 division-III athletic teams, clubs, and student organizations. Both in the classroom and out, everyone at Cal Lutheran is committed to helping each student pursue his or her passions to discover a purpose and follow that purpose to transform community and the world. At California Lutheran University, purpose changes your perspective.

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CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY CHANNEL ISLANDS 1 University Dr. Camarillo, 93012 805.437.8400 csuci.edu As Ventura County’s only four-year public university, CSU Channel Islands (CI) has become a gem of the state’s higher-education system. Founded in 2002 as the 23rd and newest campus in the CSU system, the university offers an unparalleled, student-centered learning experience in one of Southern California’s most scenic settings. The campus is nestled on 1,200 acres at the base of the Santa Monica Mountains, blending striking 1930s Spanish architecture with state-of-the-art, 21st-century facilities, and technology. Students benefit from small class sizes, close collaboration with faculty and peers, and a strong sense of community. The curriculum emphasizes an interdisciplinary, real-world approach in which students tackle community problems, conduct meaningful research, and make a difference. CI has been designated by the U.S. Department of Education as a Hispanicserving institution and is committed to serving students of all backgrounds from the region and beyond. With over 6,000 students, 750 employees, and 10,000 alumni, CI is poised to grow in size and renown while maintaining one of the most student-focused learning environments in public higher education.

OAKS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 31749 La Tienda Rd. Westlake Village, 91362 818.824.9492 oakschristian.org Oaks Christian School (OCS) is a non-denominational, coed, college-preparatory school serving grades 5 through 12. The high school was founded in 2000. In 2009, the middle school was added. Their mission statement is: “To dedicate ourselves to Christ in the pursuit of academic excellence, artistic expression, and athletic distinction while growing in knowledge and wisdom through God’s abundant grace.” An impressive 99% of graduates receive college admission, often to highly-selective, top-tier schools. The high school hosts 22 sports and 48 school teams. Teams have earned 141 league titles, 39 CIF titles, and seven California state titles. The visual and performing arts departments stage numerous performances and exhibits, many which garner prestigious awards. The International Student Boarding Program sponsors over 50 students from seven countries. The OC Learning Center provides tutoring and test-preparation for OCS students and also to local public schools. The fully-accredited OC Online School is a high-quality program for blended or long-distance learning. Distinctives are OCS’s entrepreneurial leadership and film academies. Distinctives pair students with business mentors and industry leaders for real-life projects.

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Educate CHAMINADE Middle School 19800 Devonshire St. Chatsworth, 91311 818.363.8127

LOUISVILLE HIGH SCHOOL 22300 Mulholland Dr. Woodland Hills, 91364 818.346.8812 louisvillehs.org

VIEWPOINT SCHOOL 23620 Mulholland Hwy. Calabasas, 91302 818.591.6560 viewpoint.org

High School 7500 Chaminade Ave. West Hills, 91304 818.347.8300 chaminade.org

Louisville High School is a Woodland Hillsbased, Catholic, college preparatory high school founded by the Sisters of St. Louis in 1960, and it continues to be a growing center for the academic enrichment of hundreds of young women each year.

Founded in 1961, Viewpoint School offers an enriched college preparatory program, emphasizing academic excellence in a nurturing environment. The school’s 40-acre campus is located in the scenic foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains and provides young people in kindergarten through 12th grade with an ideal place to grow, learn, and achieve success.

Founded in 1952, Chaminade College Preparatory is a coeducational Catholic school in the Marianist tradition serving students in grades 6 -12. With over 100 partner schools in the San Fernando Valley and surrounding communities, Chaminade serves a diverse student population who is actively involved in all aspects of school life. Chaminade’s unique seven-year learning experience combines a rigorous academic curriculum with robust course offerings and extra-curricular activities. Through a student-centered approach to learning, Chaminade students are actively engaged in their education with project-based learning and the use of one-to-one tablet technology. In partnership with parents, Chaminade’s dedicated faculty and staff prepare students for success in college and beyond while fostering in them deep moral values and a commitment to service. Chaminade graduates attend some of the most prestigious academic institutions in the United States and abroad carrying with them the values and characteristics of Marianist Education - formation of faith; integral quality education; family spirit; service, justice and peace; and adaptation and change.

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Louisville provides small, challenging classes with exceptional one-on-one attention from faculty. It has a wide-ranging arts program where students can discover and develop their talents and has numerous athletic teams through which girls learn the values of personal discipline and sportsmanship. On campus, students are invited to join clubs and activities promoting campus and community involvement. There is also a strong focus on campus ministry to encourage spiritual growth and leadership in each student. Each year, enrollment at Louisville ranges between 350 and 400 students, and graduates attend some of the top universities and colleges in the United States. The 8th Grade Visit Day on November 4 is an opportunity for all 8th grade girls to experience a morning at Louisville. Open house will be on December 4 and is open to all families of 6th, 7th and 8th grade girls who wish to attend. Register online for both events at louisvillehs.org.

Viewpoint School provides a ratio of approximately eight students to one full-time teacher to ensure that all students benefit from individualized attention and a personalized style. Viewpoint’s teachers work closely with students both in and out of the classroom, inspiring students with their enthusiasm and love of learning. The school’s students represent a diverse array of ethnic, religious, socioeconomic, and cultural backgrounds. 15 different languages are spoken in the homes of the families. Students commute to Viewpoint School from the surrounding communities, conveniently using carpools and the school’s busing program. Viewpoint School is an exciting journey for students. The teachers and administrators strive to ensure that students appropriately balance academic responsibilities, extracurricular and athletic activities, and time for social activities, and relaxation. Viewpoint is eager to share with you the many opportunities it offers its students. They look forward to meeting you and welcoming you to their scenic campus.

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Educate SIERRA CANYON SCHOOL 20801 Rinaldi St. Chatsworth, 91311 818.882.8121 sierracanyonschool.org

FUSION ACADEMY WARNER CENTER 21650 Oxnard St., #100 Woodland Hills, 91367 818.712.9521 fusionwarnercenter.com

Since 1978, Sierra Canyon School has inspired and challenged students. Located in the Northern San Fernando Valley, Sierra Canyon School has two campuses: the bucolic Lower School, for early kindergarten through 6th grade, and the state-of-the-art Upper Campus, which serves as an “academic village” for grades 7 through 12.

Fusion Academy is a revolutionary, accredited, private middle and high school, where positive relationships and one-to-one classrooms unlock academic potential. This format allows Fusion to personalize and customize curriculum for each student’s unique strengths, interests, and learning style.

Sierra Canyon is an independent, nonsectarian, college-preparatory school where intellectual discourse, athletic prowess, and artistic expression come together in an environment that instills a sound work ethic and promotes strong personal values.

The supportive staff and campus environment provide a safe space for students to flourish emotionally, socially, and academically. It includes a stateof-the-art recording studio and a mixedmedia art studio for expressing creativity. Students complete all homework on campus in the Homework Café® before they leave for the day.

Close, meaningful student-faculty relationships support the school’s mission to instill a love of learning and the pursuit of personal excellence. With average class sizes of 19 in the Lower School and 14 in the Upper School, students thrive in intimate and dynamic learning environments. Sierra Canyon students are highly prepared for top colleges across the country and abroad. The school’s families comprise over 80 zip codes, with easy access thanks to a reverse commute and daily busing from Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Woodland Hills, Tarzana, and West Hills.

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Classes are offered at three levels: essential, college prep, and honors. From algebra to yoga and everything in-between, they have over 450 courses to choose from. Students can enroll fulltime, take classes for credit, or utilize tutoring services. While it’s impossible to put the students into categories, Fusion generally serves students with learning differences like ADHD, dyslexia, or dysgraphia; social challenges; social anxiety; or challenging schedules; as well as accelerated/ gifted learners. Students who attend Fusion Academy have one thing in common: Traditional school isn’t working. Learn more at FusionWarnerCenter.com.

THE BUCKLEY SCHOOL 3900 Stansbury Ave. Sherman Oaks, 91423 818.783.1610 buckley.org Buckley continues to move forward with a series of campus enhancements designed to enrich and uplift the student experience, starting with the opening of two new state-of-theart buildings in 2012 and 2013. This year, a new “heart of campus,” the Center for Community and the Arts, debuts with a versatile per formance venue and English department classrooms. Each one of these beautifully designed buildings offers light-flooded, collaborative, learning spaces with the latest technology for everything from music to robotics. Their K-12 model creates seamless transitions between divisions, a multitude of mentoring opportunities, and relationships that build over decades. Their faculty are trained in the latest pedagogy, cultural competency, and social-emotional learning to guide students in every subject they teach.

Whether learning to read, analyzing a text, or presenting a project in high school, Buckley inspires students to develop their confidence, courage, and perseverance.

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Educate BRIDGES ACADEMY 3921 Laurel Cyn. Blvd. Studio City, 91604 818.506.1091 bridges.edu Bridges Academy is an independent college preparatory school (grades 4-12) for gifted students who learn differently. Their students are a diverse group of bright, curious explorers with a wide range of strengths and interests. Since 1995 they have been meeting the needs of complex, neurodiversity learners through innovative programs that unlock and develop potential. Their goal is to help students discover the world and develop the skills, confidence, and resiliency necessary to become the architects of their own lives. Bridges Academy promotes 21st century skills, provide a broad arts and sciences foundation, and create opportunities for in-depth study and development of expertise in interest areas. Their dynamic educational ecosystem interconnects intellectual, academic, creative, and personal growth in a vibrant and supportive community. With creative teachers, like-minded peers, varied pedagogical approaches and engaging learning experiences, a day in the life of a Bridges student is challenging, social, relevant, and fun. Whether exploring biomimicry or anthropology, exopolitics or music composition, philosophy or robotics, Bridges students have abundant opportunities to find and develop their passions.

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HALSTROM ACADEMY 30700 Russell Ranch Rd., #180 Westlake Village, 91362 866.590.7549 halstrom4U.com Halstrom Academy provides an education that fits your needs, your goals, your life. Since 1985, Halstrom has helped more than 16,000 students in grades 6 through 12 achieve educational success. Offering an alternative to the traditional classroom, Halstrom’s onestudent-to-one-teacher model creates a pathway to success for students who benefit from customized teaching and flexible scheduling. Students take charge of their education as they are taught to their learning style and are able to progress and succeed at their own pace. The 1:1 student-teacher ratio, academic support, and flexible scheduling options differentiate Halstrom Academy from the traditional school model. Halstrom also offers robust college preparatory and Advanced Placement courses, as well as college counseling and tutoring. Each campus provides a small, nurturing environment that fosters strong three-way communication between parents, students, and teachers. Halstrom Academy is WASC accredited, UC/CSU certified, and NCAA approved. Halstrom is 15 campuses strong and committed to providing education solutions for families throughout California, with two convenient locations in Westlake Village and Woodland Hills. Learn more at Halstrom4U.com or by calling 866.590.7549.

MUSE MUSE Prime 1666 Las Virgenes Rd. Calabasas, 91302 MUSE Middle/High 4345 Las Virgenes Rd. Calabasas, 91302 818.880.5437 museschool.org MUSE School CA is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit school offering a student-centered academic curriculum for ages 2 to 18. Founded in 2006 by Suzy Amis Cameron and Rebecca Amis, MUSE School’s mission is “to inspire and prepare young people to live consciously with themselves, one another and the planet.” Located on two of the greenest campuses in the United States, MUSE centers its educational philosophy on five pillars: academics, passion-based learning, sustainability, communication, and self-efficacy – a belief in one’s ability to be successful. Parents, students, and educators work together to choose a personalized curriculum for each student based on students’ interests and passions, how they learn best, where they find fun, and what they need. MUSE supports spontaneous, hands-on, real-world learning, enticing students from early childhood through high school to explore, create, discover, and reflect. This freedom to follow one’s own path is essential in nurturing fully invested, absorbed, and passionate learners. To schedule a tour and for admissions information, call 818.880.5437 or email admissions@museschool.org

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Calendar of

Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Events

MUSEtalks Presents: moby

Saturday, November 5, 2016

Book signing for his autobiography, porcelain.

Lavender Faire 10am to 4pm MUSE Prime Campus 1666 Las Virgenes Canyon Road Calabasas, CA 91302

6:30-8pm MUSE Prime Campus 1666 Las Virgenes Canyon Rd. Calabasas, CA 91302

FREE TO THE PUBLIC Space is limited, so reservations are required: mcordish@museschool.org

PLAY Saturday, December 3, 2016 Rock Wall, Dunk Tank, Face Painting, Live Music Open House and MORE! Early Childhood - 5th Grade : 10am EAT MUSE Prime Campus Seasonal and organic food prepared by the MUSE 1666 Las Virgenes Canyon Rd. School Kitchen and local restaurants! Calabasas, CA 91302 SHOP The Eco-Market, featuring upcycled, recycled, sustainable and green products, some created by MUSE students!

Open House 6th - 12th Grade : 1pm MUSE Middle/High Campus 4345 Las Virgenes Road Calabasas, CA 91302

FREE TO THE PUBLIC For more information, please contact Matt Cordish at mcordish@museschool.org, call 818-880-5437 or Take a tour, see our classrooms, meet our teachers, visit www.museschool.org learn about our admissions process and experience the MUSE difference! 70

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Educate ABRAHAM JOSHUA HESCHEL DAY SCHOOL 17701 Devonshire St. Northridge, 91325 818.368.5781 heschel.com As a TK-8th grade independent Jewish school, Heschel provides a rich academic and extracurricular education, with focus on developing student skills in critical thinking, problem solving, and creativity, and with enrichment in athletics, visual and performing arts, robotics, and community service. Heschel’s curriculum integrates study across the disciplines of mathematics, art, technology, engineering, and science to promote learning that is experiential and collaborative and that gives students the tools for personal and professional growth. Heschel’s campus in Northridge offers advanced facilities, including labs, an Innovation Center, a recently built yard with sports courts, an amphitheater, a separate TK-K yard, and more. Students experience close relationships with faculty and staff committed to ongoing professional development through diverse workshops and conferences which enrich them with new ideas and pedagogies. As Heschel celebrates their 45th year, they are proud of our alumni, many who return to Heschel to bring their children. Currently, they have 66 students who are the children of alumni, whose families live throughout the valley, in neighborhoods from Calabasas to Studio City.

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IVY ACADEMIA ENTREPRENEURIAL CHARTER SCHOOL 7353 Valley Circle Blvd. West Hills, 91304 818.716.0771 ivyacademia.com Ivy Academia Entrepreneurial Charter School is a free, public charter school that serves students in grades TK-12. They provide a rigorous, college preparatory, entrepreneurial education for your child. They are committed to small class sizes, fully credentialed teachers, individualized instruction, and a focus on entrepreneurial education each and every day. Ivy Academia takes great pride in the academic excellence and entrepreneurial program. Their students are accepted to prestigious universities and are recipients of numerous academic scholarships. For the past decade, Ivy Academia has continuously provided their families and community with high quality education and innovative opportunities as a public school of choice. They accept students at every grade level and offer a continuous elementary, middle, and high school education. They offer a gifted education program, honors classes, and several AP classes. Students have daily instruction on relevant business practices and financial management. Ivy Academia invites you to give your child the opportunity to create, to innovate, to explore, and to learn as Ivy Academia educates their next generation of entrepreneurs! Visit ivyacademia.com to complete an application of interest today!

LOS ENCINOS SCHOOL 17100 Ventura Blvd. Encino, 91316 818.990.1006 losencinosschool.org Did you know that you can easily count the number of seeds in an apple, but it’s impossible to count the number of apple trees that can originate from just one seed? That insight was made recently by students at Los Encinos School when discussing the school’s philosophy: “Think big, start small.” Los Encinos, a K-6 elementary school founded in 1980, emphasizes the power that comes from being small. The size allows for a program that features one class per grade with two credentialed teachers plus a floating assistant, integrated learning groups, differentiated instruction, and valuable one-on-one time, insuring that each child reaches his or her potential. In direct contrast to its physical size — located in the heart of Encino on Ventura Boulevard — the school offers rich academics, a comprehensive arts and humanities curriculum, as well as technology and science integrated daily. Service learning is a huge component. Los Encinos School prides itself on creating learners who love to learn, can problem solve, and are first and foremost good people. Open houses are scheduled for October 19 and November 16, with group tours led weekly. Watch the video at LosEncinosSchool.org/small.

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Educate BOULEVARD SCHOOL 23022 Victory Blvd. Woodland Hills, 91367 818.883.0607 boulevardschool.com

CALABASAS KLUBHOUSE PRESCHOOL 3655 Old Topanga Cyn. Rd. Calabasas, 90290 818.222.9791 calabasasklubhousepreschool.com

ST. PATRICK’S EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL 1 Church Rd. Thousand Oaks, 91362 805.497.1416 stpatricksdayschool.org

Helping each child develop a strong academic foundation and a love of learning has been the goal of the Boulevard School in Woodland Hills for more than 40 years. The Boulevard School offers programs for children ages 10 months to 6 years, including mommy/daddy and me, a toddler program, preschool, and a transitional kindergarten. There is also a summer camp. The school has developed a unique curriculum presented in a supportive environment. Values and morals are incorporated into the monthly calendar.

The Calabasas Klubhouse Preschool program is state-licensed for children 18 months to 5 years of age and is based on a developmental curriculum and an academic approach in preparation for kindergarten. As early childhood educators, they recognize that each child develops cognitively, emotionally, physically, and socially at his/her own pace. That’s why they are dedicated to meeting each child’s individual needs and adapting their approach to support this goal.

St. Patrick’s Day School is a private, independent elementary school that is committed to the education of the mind, body, spirit, and heart of each student.

Music, arts and crafts, science, cooking, and special events, combined with a strong academic program of math concepts, phonic skills, and computer skills comprise the enriched curriculum. The school program also supports family involvement, encouraging family members to volunteer as room parents and participate in Mom’s Day, Dad’s Day, and Grandparent’s Day. The campus features an outdoor heated pool, four age-appropriate, park-like playgrounds, and a camera security system. Hot lunches are available yearround. The Boulevard School strives to give all children a successful start so they may contribute in constructive ways to the world of the future.

The teaching staff is thoroughly screened and well-educated in child development and is passionate about being a part of each child’s early development. The administrative staff is equally committed and facilitates in offering a phenomenal curriculum that assists each child in building self-confidence and self-respect and in caring for others. In addition to the daily curriculum, they offer an array of enrichment programs in karate, Spanish, soccer, tumbling/yoga, and sports, all taught by professionals. The school is located on 11.8 acres and is security gated to maintain a protected and nurturing environment. As space is limited, please call or visit their website.

For over five decades, St. Patrick’s has provided students in kindergarten through 6th grade with a high-quality academic program enhanced by opportunities for creative expression in the visual and performing arts. Their students exercise civic responsibility, compassion, and leadership through our fully developed community service program, which is thoughtfully integrated into the academic curriculum. Small class sizes allow their caring, experienced, and credentialed teachers to give greater attention to each student. St. Patrick’s welcomes families of all traditions and faiths as they believe that there is something to be valued and respected living in a community that proclaims the unique worth and beauty of all human beings. Along with the finest schools in California, St. Patrick’s is the only elementary school in the Conejo Valley that is accredited by the California Association of Independent Schools (CAIS). The school is also WASC and NAES accredited. Please visit stpatricksdayschool.org or call 805.497.1416.

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Educate KADIMA DAY SCHOOL Evenhaim Family Campus 7011 Shoup Ave. West Hills, 91307 818.346.0849 kadimadayschool.org Kadima Day School, located in West Hills, is a Schechter-based Jewish day school. Their community of caring educators delivers a hands-on and academically challenging curriculum. The Kadima Early Childhood Education Center, for ages 2 to 5, provides children with creative and fun learning opportunities, building self-esteem, independence, social skills, confidence, and responsibility. Science, mathematics, language arts (English and Hebrew), social studies, and art are some of the topics explored in a developmentally appropriate way. The Kadima Elementary School, for grades K to 5, offers a rich and stimulating environment where students are inspired and guided to learn and grow. Language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, visual arts, physical education, music, and more are integrated within the program, offering the very best Hebrew and Judaic education. The Kadima Middle School, for grades 6 to 8, offers a rigorous academic program designed to foster lifelong learning. With their balanced and integrated core program of language arts, mathematics, Judaic studies, Hebrew studies, and more, they prepare their middle school students for a successful high school experience.

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MONTESSORI OF MALIBU CANYON 4029 Las Virgenes Rd. Calabasas, 91302 818.880.0555 calabasaspreschool.com Montessori of Malibu Canyon is a Calabasas based early childhood education center that offers daily full-day and half-day program options for children 2-6. They offer a variety of programs including a mommy and me, toddler and preschool program, and transitional kindergarten program. They also offer extended AM and PM care at no additional charge. The beautiful campus is nestled in the Malibu Canyon scenic corridor with over an acre of flat, tree-shaded playground space! The school features large open classrooms outfitted with Montessori materials and lead-free furniture and paint to create a safe and nurturing environment. They are proud to present an interdisciplinary approach to early childhood education that incorporates and celebrates the best of Montessori coupled with the Reggio Emilia and Waldorf Pedagogies. The teachers are highly educated career educators who are also passionate and nurturing. They offer a rich and diverse program that provides children with a solid foundation in math, language arts with language labs in Spanish, French or Farsi, geography, science, music, dance, fine arts, cooking, gardening, yoga, and more.

WOODLAND HILLS PRIVATE SCHOOL Toddler and Preschool 22322 Collins St. Woodland Hills, 91367 818.712.9966 Preschool and Elementary 22555 Oxnard St. Woodland Hills, 91367 818.348.6563 woodlandhillsprivateschool.com Woodland Hills Private School (WHPS) offers a boutique experience with programs individually tailored to the talents, interests, and learning styles of each student, a focus on the development of the whole child, and the philosophy that “it takes a village to raise a child.” For over 40 years, WHPS has been known for its rigorous, creative, award-winning program that fosters self-efficacy and resiliency in students 18-months-old through 5th grade. The WHPS campuses blend state-of-theart with the natural environment. The school’s exclusive animal and nature center (with animal specialists and 70+ animals) and outdoor nature classrooms enhance the science and character education curriculum. With a focus on project-based learning, the WHPS preschool program is Reggio-inspired, and the elementary program’s STEAM-enriched curriculum (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) and 3D printing turns students into project managers learning through cross-curricular projects and fostering creativity and scientific argumentation.

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Ideas for: After-School Routines By Sasha Lewis

s the kids get back to school and routines start to unfold, having an after-school routine structured and established not only helps children focus, but contributes to their learning and development. This intentional support allows kids to learn about balancing work and fun and helps them build upon real-world skills that will be required more and more as they progress through life. Our ideas for after-school routines help inspire ways to make your kids’ time more efficient, effective, and productive.

• Use an iPhone alarm to work on having your kids focused for a specific amount of time • Organize all school supplies in labeled clear-plastic bins • Teach your kids about prioritizing by having them make to-do lists with deadlines based on their assignments • Develop a filing system with your kids that allows them to start organizing their school work

• Have your kids get involved in after school activities. Sports, dance, music, all stimulate different areas of the brain to contribute to their development.

• To regain focus, allow your children a short break after each assignment they complete

• Seek out an after-school sitter to help if both parents work

• Create an after-school schedule: snacks, homework, play time, etc.

• Utilize technology with apps like iHomework that organizes your kids homework and tasks

• Pack their lunches the night before

• Set rules on screen time usage (iPad, computers, phones)

• Have your kids pack up their backpacks before bed with everything they need

• Schedule “Family Time” during the week and have it be consistent

• Remove mobile devices and similar electronics from kids’ bed rooms to ensure a good nights sleep

• Establish the “Homework Area” and remove all distractions from that area

• Enforce regular weekday bedtimes. Having good bedtime habits increases better behavior, focus, and overall well-being n

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Justly Chosen to Receive Diller Teen Tikkun Olam Award

By Lori Berezin

Michael Mottahedeh

ichael Mottahedehâ€™s strong sense of justice led to his recent receipt of the Helen Diller Family Foundation Teen T ikkun Olam Award. The judicious 18-year-old Calabasas teen will receive $36,000 in recognition of his extensive community work with the Taft High Schoolâ€™s Teen Court in Woodland Hills. His dedication to reducing juvenile delinquency rates through the Taft Teen Court program began back in the 9th grade. Run by the Los Angeles Superior Court, it offers an alternative to minors suspected of committing a misdemeanor crime. Instead of ending up in the traditional justice system, kids are allowed to present their case to a jury of their peers. Those found guilty will be allowed to complete a sentence determined by student volunteers. After serving, they will be able to wipe their records clean and start fresh. In 1998, over 19,000 teenagers around Los Angeles were held in correctional facilities or juvenile halls. Today, that

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number has decreased to 10,500 and continues to plummet, thanks in part to programs such as these. Michael learned the importance of justice at an early age from his Jewish-Iranian parents, who immigrated to America in pursuit of opportunities and religious freedom. He applied this knowledge over the past four years by hosting club meetings, organizing fundraisers, and coordinating field trips for fellow members. He also helped increase membership from 25 to 140 students per session and now serves as president. Based upon the Jewish concept of tikkum olam, or repairing the world, this award has been granted annually since 2007 to exceptional Jewish teenage entrepreneurs. Candidates are chosen by a committee of educators and community leaders across the United States. This year alone, there were 14 deserving winners from New York City to Honolulu. Michael plans to use his award money to further his upcoming education at UC Berkeley. He also hopes to continue playing an active role in Teen Court. n

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Train Your Brain

at any age

By Pax Ansley •Variety is the spice of life. Variety is also the key to maintaining good brain function well into later years. Try to participate in activities that teach you something new. No matter what the task, if it is teaching you something new, it is strengthening your brain. • Get enough sleep . When you sleep, your brain and body are able to recover from the day. This is also the time when memory consolidation happens, a necessary process that allows room for new memories to be formed. Adults usually need about 7.5 to 9 hours of sleep per night. Skimping out on much-needed rest will noticeably affect brain performance during your waking hours. • Exercise is one of the best ways to get your brain the oxygen it needs while enhancing the release of certain chemicals that stimulate the creation of new neural pathways. A good aerobic exercise will also help to hold fatigue at bay and “clear out the cobwebs” to leave you with more mental clarity.

he human brain is the most complex machine on earth. This remarkable organ controls the most mundane, yet essential tasks, such as breathing, blinking, and the relentless beating of our hearts. It is also responsible for the most outstanding human achievements, such as designing a skyscraper, creating a vaccine for a deadly virus, or composing a concerto. There is a common misconception that typical humans use only about 10% of their brains. The truth is, the majority of the brain is active almost all of the time. How you use this marvelous tool is what makes all the difference.

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Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to create new neural pathways to adapt and rewire itself, as it sees fit. You can literally change your brain at any age. Just like any muscle in your body, you have to use it to make it strong. • Your brain is designed to be stimulated and stretched to its limits. One way to keep it vital is to challenge yourself to learn a new skill. Learning a new language is a great way to engage your brain and wake up sections of your brain not utilized by your native tongue. Plus, learning Italian is a great excuse to take that trip to Tuscany you’ve been dreaming of.

• Don’t stress! Stress is one of the biggest contributors to the destruction of brain cells. Chronic stress will literally take years off your life and can even lead to memory loss. Find ways to destress your life. Take a bubble bath, have a picnic, try meditation, or just find a moment to have some quiet time. No matter how packed your schedule is, find time for you. When it comes to brain function, you must “use it or lose it.” Steps taken now to boost brain function will make all the difference down the line. n

CRAYON COLLECTION AT NOBU June 2 was the second annual Crayon Collection Arts & Education event at NOBU Malibu. The event raised over $50,000 for the charity. Ninety-five attendees were treated to a beautiful lunch to learn about the benefits of arts education for young children as well as how Crayon Collection supports this programming. Speakers who shared their views on these benefits included Catherine Malcom Brickman, Vice Chair-Malibu Cultural Arts Commission, and Minnie Mortimer, Fashion Designer and Co-Founder of Vainite. One of the highlights of the event included the first ever presentation of the Crayon Collection Hero Award to Grayson Armantrout. At 6-years-old Grayson decided to forgo birthday gifts and instead delivered crayons to Cahuenga Elementary School. The live auction, hosted by Charity Angels founder, Melissa Neilsen, started off with a bang. A 20 person private concert with Harry Waters sold out within one minute of raising $20,000 for Crayon Collection.

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Super Bowl Champs

FROM P.L.A.Y. FOUNDATION HELP KIDS PLAY

The P.L.A.Y. Foundation hosted a NFL Players Football Camp and Carnival at Taft High School and a Gala at the Gastropub in Woodland Hills. The P.L.A.Y. Foundationâ€™s mission is to provide sports equipment and professional training to young athletes who cannot afford these essentials. They believe that every child should have the opportunity to chase their sports dreams and that no child should be left behind because they cannot afford to participate. The P.L.A.Y. Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was founded by NFL players and brothers Steven and Malcolm Smith, who have accomplished the impressive feat of being just the sixth pair of brothers in history to both become Super Bowl Champions. The P.L.A.Y. Foundation Camp and Carnival is provided to the children and families of L.A. County at no cost and welcomes the thoughtful donations and community support from individuals and businesses. The events were organized by AIA Sports Marketing President Heath Patton and Director Jen Svejda.

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Empower SYLVAN LEARNING CENTER 20644 Ventura Blvd. Woodland Hills, 91364 818.742.9000 sylvanlearning.com Learning should be personal, and at Sylvan Learning, it is, thanks to their innovative approach that builds confidence and inspires children to do great things. Sylvan’s teachers are much more than tutors. They’re motivators, mentors, and confidence builders. They know how to challenge and inspire children, turning frustration into confidence, Bs into As, and struggles into achievements. With each tutoring session, children receive personal instruction from a tutor, along with guided and independent learning on a personal plan — critical for truly mastering concepts. Sylvan’s tutoring sessions are designed for the way today’s students learn. They complement personal instruction with technology, including the SylvanSync™ teaching system, iPad® tablets, and a virtual motivational system. This ensures interactive and engaging learning. With Sylvan’s four-step process of “assess, plan, teach, and apply,” children stay on the right track and parents start to see results immediately, including the excitement their children suddenly have towards learning. With personalized approaches to teaching and tutoring, Sylvan makes sure your child’s learning process is engaging and motivating.

ADMISSION ESSENTIALS 23246 Park Corniche Calabasas, 91302 818.584.2959 admissionessentials.com Pamela Plotkin, owner of Admission Essentials, LLC, is earning rave reviews from her students and their families for expertly advising and guiding them through the complex, ever-changing, and competitive process of college admissions. Drawing upon her background as a tax attorney and her UCLA-certificated college counselor training, Pam provides smart, insightful, and committed support with a personalized plan of action that includes selecting course and activities that establish a “theme” for college applications, and essay brainstorming, topic development, and editing. Pam ensures that students craft accurate, compelling college applications and engages in mock interviews to prepare students to impress admissions officers. Through tuition planning, Pam offers strategies to pay for college that focus on tax-advantaged savings vehicles, scholarships, and financial aid. “Pam knows what colleges want to learn from students in their college essays and helps your student stand out from the pack!” Pam’s students achieve outstanding results - receiving acceptances from highly-selective schools, such as Stanford, Harvard, and UC Berkeley. A complimentary initial consultation is available, as it’s never too early to start gaining the advantage!

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C2 EDUCATION CENTERS 23661 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas, 91302 818.661.4550 3825 Thousand Oaks Bl. Westlake Village, 91362 805.379.2300 c2educate.com Calabasas open seven days a week Thousand Oaks open six days a week Please consult each center for specific hours. Since 1997, 85% of C2 Education students have earned admission to top-50 colleges. C2 provides a personalized academic support system that encourages students to meet and exceed their educational goals. This includes college admissions counseling, managing school grades with tailor-made curriculum for the perpetually changing academic climate. C2 has a proven track record of preparing students to not just succeed in high school, but in college and beyond. Academic guidance at C2 is led by the center director who mentors each student toward his or her goals. The Calabasas center is led by Jaine Park, and the Thousand Oaks center by Hannah Park. Both have helped students gain admissions to top universities including Stanford, Harvard, UCLA, and NYU. Both have helped students raise their new SAT scores 200-400 points and ACT scores 4-6 points in as little as two-to-six months. Call each center to find out more about free practice tests and workshops on new SAT, SAT II, ACT, AP, and ISEE/SSAT admission tests.

CONEJO COTTONTAIL UNVEILING

On August 5, The Shoppes at Westlake Village became the home of beautifully decorated cottontail rabbit sculpture painted by Wendy Jann and Jennifer Sutman. Their Fresco-style collaboration is entitled Congilo al Tramonto, “Rabbit at Sunset.” The unveiling featured craft food, drinks, music, and more with participants such as The Gallery, Q Sushi, and Guitar Center. The Conejo Cottontail Public Art Project is a joint venture of the Arts Council of the Conejo Valley and Art Trek, Inc. These permanent public art pieces are representative of the history and heritage of Conejo Valley. Standing at 5’6” tall, the fiberglass cottontail rabbits are painted by local artists and purchased by local businesses, organizations, and individuals, all eager to support the arts for schools, youth, and senior programs.

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Empower SYNERGY ACADEMICS 6700 Fallbrook Ave. #101 West Hills, 91307 818.888.8665 synergyacademics.com

WESTMARK SCHOOL 5461 Louise Ave. Encino, 91316 818.986.5045 westmarkschool.org

Synergy Academics is a comprehensive learning center serving students at every educational level. From elementary school through college, “Synergy Students” benefit from knowledgeable and compassionate tutors who truly care about their happiness and success. The objective is to build confidence in students by developing their natural strengths, turning challenges into triumph. Synergy Academics determines the unique ways each student learns and matches them with a tutor who truly understands his or her learning process. Combining nurturing tutors with a positive and focused environment, Synergy Academics helps students achieve more than they might ever have thought possible.

Westmark School celebrates the kickoff to the 2016-2017 school year! Westmark is the leading school in Los Angeles for students in grades 2-12 with dyslexia, ADHD, and other language-based learning differences. Due to their unique learning styles, these students have not been fully served in other school settings. Their unique, multi-modal, research-based pedagogy, along with the integrated use of assistive and educational technologies, allow their students to access the curriculum and ultimately, find success.

The revolutionary approach to educating students is only part of what makes Synergy Academics unique. They distinguish themselves by allowing students to select from any number of exceptional tutors to find the perfect combination of personality, knowledge, availability, price, and even location. Sessions are easily booked online or on a smartphone with a proprietary scheduling app. With just a few clicks, students pick their tutor, location, and appointment. Synergy Academics makes it easy to be a great student!

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Learning at Westmark is different…and the difference is brilliant. Through Westmark’s individualized instruction, children discover not only their personal academic style and affinities, but their areas of need as well. This customized, strength-based education enables students to learn and achieve academically, socially, and emotionally. Students advocate for themselves, learn to love learning again, develop new interests, character and confidence, fulfill their potential, and push past old limits to reach for success. For more information, contact Cindy Goodman, Director of Admissions, 818.986.5045 or cgoodman@westmarkschool.org. Don’t miss their OPEN HOUSE, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1:00-3:00 p.m. RSVP: westmarkschool.org/openhouse.

HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER 22151 Ventura Blvd. Woodland Hills, 91364 818.716.0100 woodlandhills.huntingtonhelps.com 17200 Ventura Blvd. Encino, 91316 818.907.5555 encino.huntingtonhelps.com

Huntington Learning Center has been serving the tutorial and exam prep needs of students for almost 40 years. They offer remediation as well as enrichment in reading, math, writing skills, study skills, Common Core, and preparation for all school exams. They provide a structured learning environment where each student’s program is individually tailored to meet their specific needs. Unless students are one-to-one with a teacher, instruction places students in an environment (with no more than four students to one teacher) that fosters independence, focus, motivation, and good study habits necessary to excel in the classroom and in life. One thing that sets them apart from other learning centers is that most of Huntington’s teachers are certified, which is a symbol of the company’s commitment to integrity. The company also excels in all types of test preparation (ACT, SAT, ISEE, HSPT, etc.) by providing their students with the strategies, skills, and confidence to conquer any test or school entry exam. The result is that their students become more confident, motivated, and excited about learning and doing well in their academics.

UNDER THE STARS AT MUSE MUSE School held its annual gala, Under the Stars!, a night full of delicious cocktails, silent auction, dinner, live auction, a special live performance, and dancing - all “under the stars” on their Prime campus. This event helps change the future of education at MUSE for its students. Parents choose MUSE so their child will receive an unparalleled education, tailored to their passions and learning style. Students study core academic subjects and the crucial skill of effective communication. They learn to believe that they be successful. By attending MUSE become a “sustainability native” are stewards of the earth through daily actions.

can they who their

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Enrich MONARCHS GYM, PARKOUR & PRESCHOOL 5331 Derry Ave. #C-I Agoura Hills, 91301 818.889.3634 monarchsgym.com Monarchs, a children’s center dedicated to inspiring kids to grow through developing their minds and bodies. Visit them at Agoura Hills, Newbury Park, or catch a Mobile Gym bus around town. Monarchs offers curriculum based physical instruction programs designed to cultivate your child’s active lifestyle through kinder gym, recreational and competitive gymnastics, tumbling, cheer, trampoline, flips and tricks, and parkour and freerunning, all for children ages 15 months – adult, plus daily preschool. Additionally, their non-curriculum based programs are geared towards fostering learning through fun. Camp is also offered year-round in the summer, winter, spring, and holidays. Monarch’s also offers private birthday parties in addition to weekly themed Friday night bashes, “Parents Night Out,” which comes complete with open gym, a DJ, and pizza. MonarX Parkour, a specially designed indoor parkour complex, for budding traceurs ages 6+, provides curriculum based and freestyle options. Monarchs Mobile brings the gym to you! They help kids grow motor skills through foundational gymnastics, sports, and life skills. Happy Kidz Preschool is a full service preschool open 9a.m. – 3p.m. weekdays!

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SYLVAN LEARNING CENTER 20644 Ventura Blvd. Woodland Hills, 91364 818.742.9000 sylvanlearning.com Sylvan Learning’s afterschool STEM and EDGE programs are great for getting children excited about potential future careers. “STEM” stands for science, technology, engineering, and math, and STEM careers are growing rapidly. Through Sylvan EDGE, children are challenged and inspired to master critical 21st-century skills. ROBOTICS FOR KIDS uses fun, handson projects to get creative juices flowing. Children learn how to build and program robots with LEGO ® bricks and software. CODING FOR KIDS is an innovative course for elementary and middle schoolers that teaches computer programming skills through interactive and exciting projects. Students create video games and animated stories, bringing imagination to life. ENGINEERING is another hot class and topic that teaches children how to build simple machines or design amazing bridges. Each session has a creative theme to get kids excited and inspired. In addition, the Sylvan MATH EDGE program for grades 1 through 6 helps children build the critical skills needed for higher-level math. In addition to, Sylvan also offers Study Skills within this program which allows your child to build great habits that will last a lifetime.

THE PLAY DESTINATION 28501 Canwood St. #3E Agoura Hills, 91301 818.292.8644 theplaydestination.com The Play Destination is under new ownership, and the changes are amazing! As they paint, design, and enhance the atmosphere to be more conducive to you and your child’s needs, they strive to exceed your expectations and make your experience even more spectacular. The large, open indoor playground and birthday party center for children 6 years and younger is the perfect place for stimulating activities, mentally and physically. They also offer parenting and educational classes for people of all ages including music, dancing, pregnancy/infant, kids’ self-defense, arts/crafts, exercise, CPR certification, Spanish, and Sign Language. The Play Destination provides an atmosphere where parents can simply read, relax, complete tasks, meet up with friends on a play date, and socialize with other parents. In addition to offering a space for general play, The Play Destination offers private reservations of the facility for parties where the entire space is reserved for only one private party at a given time. They also have a mobile party plan where they can bring everything you need for your party to your home.

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Enrich THE CALABASAS ACTING SCHOOL 26560 Agoura Rd., #109A Calabasas, 91302 818.805.9180 calabasasacting.com The Calabasas Acting School focuses on building and extending the skills needed to help you succeed in the industry. They provide classes for students who want a hands-on education in acting for film, television, and theater. Whether you are a novice or a veteran of the business, they are committed to giving you tools to book the job. Their philosophy is that professional actors must be bold and daring for every audition. The Calabasas Acting School will enable you to walk into every audition with preparedness, confidence, and excitement! They offer classes for students ages 8-10, 11-14, 15-18 and adults of all ages, with small class sizes of 10-12 actors per class. Classes include cold reads, scene study, audition technique, comedy improv training, acting for the camera, and the business side of acting. They also offer private coaching and self-taping. The school is run by Gregory Salmon who served as associate casting director for CBS Television and has extensive teaching and directing experience at the French Woods Festival of the Performing Arts.

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TEAM G TENNIS CALABASAS HIGH SCHOOL 22855 W. Mulholland Hwy. Calabasas, 91302 323.979.8417 teamgtennis.com Team G seeks talented athletes and tennis players from all backgrounds who have the passion and desire to achieve national recognition. They are given the support and skills needed to achieve their dreams. Gerald Mathews is head tennis coach at Calabasas High School and owner of Team G Tennis, where he works with nationally ranked junior and college players. Gerald has established a system of training that equips athletes with the skill set to move and perform at an elite level. Going on its eighth season, he offers season clinics year-round for different levels and ages. Team G Tennis Camp creates players that achieve consistently at the top levels in the sport through movement training and tennis fundamentals. Team G students go on to achieve the top-level ranks and the notoriety needed to be recognized by top colleges and compete professionally. As a starting point for these potentially great players, Team G hopes to expand the opportunities and visions of the tennis world by making the sports accessible for more and more athletes.

CLICK2DRIVE 22156 Sherman Way Canoga Park, 91303 818.301.7561 click2drive.com Since 1989, Click2Drive (C2D) has been committed to providing the highest standards in quality driver education. After decades of serving the community by providing safer drivers on the road, they are proud to have grown into one of the most trusted and reputable driving schools in Southern California. This was accomplished by providing the highest caliber of educators who focus on defensive driving, road test service, and new teen driving laws, combined with an organizational culture that provides industry-leading customer service. Click2Drive offers the convenience of online driver education as well as hands-on professionals available for incar education. Three driving packages are available and tailored to meet the different needs of students. Curriculum at C2D not only meets California standards, but provides the most-advanced safe-driving techniques. Teens between 15 1/2 and 17 years of age are eligible to complete state-administered online driversâ€™ education courses to get a valid driversâ€™ permit from California DMV. Their mission is to make California roads safer for everyone.

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Enrich CALIFORNIA DANCE THEATRE 5863 Kanan Rd. Agoura Hills, 91301 818.707.3267 caldancetheatre.com

TEN TIGERS MARTIAL ARTS 22990 Ventura Blvd. Woodland Hills, 91364 818.805.9003 senseilincoln.com

California Dance Theatre of Agoura Hills was founded in 1985 and today, celebrating its 31st year, boasts five studios spanning 9,000 square feet. California Dance Theatre has 30 teachers to instruct students of all ages and levels – from children to adults and beginners to professionals – and it encourages and trains both recreational students as well as career-minded dancers.

Lincoln Centeio has been teaching martial arts for the past 20 years and recently opened his own dojo training studio in Woodland Hills. He holds a 5th-degree black belt in Taekwondo with experience in grappling, judo, and boxing. He has over 30 first-place National Champion competition awards and is dedicated to helping his students learn every aspect of the art.

California Dance Theatre seeks to inspire dreams of movement, dance, and performing style in boys and girls. The school offers a full curriculum in classical ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, modern, tap, musical theatre, and hiphop, with a special emphasis designed to introduce these dance forms to young children. The daily pre-professional ballet program grooms the advanced dancer for a future career or an exclusive university dance program. California Dance Theatre offers a highly credentialed faculty with experience in international ballet companies, Broadway credits, and television and film backgrounds. In addition, select students perform with Pacific Festival Ballet, the resident ballet company at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza and Performing Arts Center.

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At Ten T igers, he trains students who are interested in attaining their black belt in Taekwondo. In addition, students learn judo takedowns, ground escapes, sparring, and bully prevention with a heavy emphasis on strength and fitness. The focus of his training allows students to achieve a balance between the physical and mental aspects of martial arts. Known to his students as Sensei, he has been nicknamed “The Kid Whisperer” for his ability to work with children of all ages and personalities and to bring out the best in each child. He believes that martial arts should help students prepare for the real world. Here, students earn their belts based on results and achievement, not just by showing up.

JUNIOR GOLF ACADEMY CALABASAS COUNTRY CLUB 4515 Park Entrada Calabasas, 91302 818.444.5547 calabasasgolf.com Calabasas Country Club offers the perfect environment for young golf enthusiasts. The Junior Golf Academy program is structured using the Operation 36™ Junior Development Framework with a simple mission – to provide a programming roadmap to progress juniors towards shooting par or better – and to play the game from a hole-out perspective. With the main focus on scoring, juniors progress through six divisions and compete against themselves by trying to shoot 36 or better for nine holes. The program also includes fitness training with Titleist TPI Certified professional Nikos Starks. With nine hole matches twice per month on Thursdays, supervised practice on Saturdays, and curriculum-based classes on Sundays, The Junior Golf Academy welcomes ages 6-17 and players varying in ability from beginners to college bound competitive players. In addition, Calabasas Country Club is now offering “Golf for Tots” for children ages 3 to 6. This new program focuses on tots learning putting, chipping, and full swing with games every week. The club is offering eight one-hour sessions for $99 and kids will have a blast!

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Enrich COLOR ME MINE Grand Opening This Fall 3707 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. Thousand Oaks, 91362 805.370.3703 thousandoaks.colormemine.com Color Me Mine is the world’s leading pottery painting studio with hundreds of ceramic shapes to choose from and dozens of colors to paint with. No matter your age or skill level, you’ll have a great time and their talented staff is waiting to help. Bring your family, friend, or special someone, sit back and enjoy spending quality creative time at Color Me Mine! Every day is KIDS’ DAY at Color Me Mine, where kids have fun learning art and being creative and where they get to take their pottery home to be enjoyed for years to come. Did you know they offer painting programs for our community too? Schools, scouts, preschools, corporate parties and team building, fundraisers... you name it! You can host your event at their studio or they can bring the fun to your location. Visit the new Thousand Oaks studio opening this fall!

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ISURF 805.699.5371 iSurfSchool.com iSurf is the Central Coast’s only surf school dedicated to teaching women of all ages how to surf, but no one is excluded, which means you guys. iSurf is focused on giving all students the knowledge and confidence to get into the ocean and experience the unforgettable feeling of riding waves. iSurf is also the only surf school anywhere to offer annual memberships. Classes are held seven days a week, year-round. Benefits of membership include unlimited access to group surf clinics, discounts on trips, private lessons, and more! Whether you are looking for private surf lessons, corporate outings, a birthday surf party, or something more, iSurf has everything you need to get up and surfing on the first lesson. The professional staff is happy to share their years of experience to help you to become a surfer. To find out more about their programs, please go to iSurfSchool.com. If you would like to schedule a lesson or ask questions, email info@isurfschool.com or call 805.699.5371.

DANCE DIMENSIONS 6100 Topanga Cyn. Blvd. Woodland Hills, 91367 818.999.DANCE (3262) mydancedimensions.com Dance Dimensions Performing Arts Center (DDPAC) is a place where the love of dance is fostered in a supportive and enthusiastic environment. Their vision is to enrich the community through the discipline of dance, building self-confidence, and creativity to help you succeed in life. Dance Dimensions offers mommy and me for age 2, beginning dance for ages 3 and 4 and up, and many more classes for all ages, including teens and adults. They offer aerial, acro, tumbling, ballet, contemporary, tap, Bollywood, Armenian, ballroom/Latin, musical theatre, pointe, African, flamenco, hip hop, jazz, and technique. They also have an award winning competitive dance team. Auditions are every spring. Acting coach and talent manager, Wendee Cole, teaches acting classes for children and teens. Singer, Brandy Norwood, and DDPAC team up for the “True Colors” choir. Dance Dimensions also offers a master class series throughout the year. This allows their students and dancers from the community to receive dance education from touring master teachers. Some teachers in the past have included Allison Holker, Willdabeast, Travis Wall, Cheryl Burke, and Twitch. Their new location in Woodland Hills/Calabasas is coming in the fall!

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Local Businesses Step Forward in Big Way to Support

Las Virgenes Schools T he Foundation for Las Virgenes Schools reported another fantastic year of fundraising and community engagement in 2016 in support of the 11,500 students who attend the district’s 16 award-winning schools.

The Foundation, which wrapped its fifth successful year as the central community fundraising organization for the school district, was founded to unite businesses, corporations, and residents throughout the Las Virgenes community to provide sustainable and consistent funding directly to the public schools, ensuring that all students have the resources needed to reach their highest potential. Over the past five years, The Foundation has raised more than $1 million dollars in support of the school district’s educational mission, with 2016 marking a significant year of growth for the volunteer organization. This year, the organization expanded its efforts beyond its core annual events and launched a new business outreach program to engage local businesses that have benefited from being in a community with one of the nation’s highest-performing school districts. In addition to The Foundation’s annual fundraisers, The Event and The Carnival, two corporate sponsors stepped forward this year to host significant events, helping to raise tens of thousands of dollars to support educational programs for the district.

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Bob Smith BMW-MINI hosted Drive for a Cause, which allowed residents to test drive BMW’s newest cars with every test drive fueling increased donations to The Foundation. With over 100 test drives combined and their premier sponsorship of The Event, Bob Smith donated $20,000 to The Foundation this year. “Bob Smith BMW-MINI is a family-owned-and-operated dealership that believes strongly in supporting our community and our local schools,” said Catherine Smith, general manager at Bob Smith BMW-MINI. “We are very grateful for the partnership that Bob Smith and The Foundation have together, and we look forward to a long partnership supporting our community’s incredible schools.” The Village at Westfield Topanga also sponsored The Event and hosted their stand-alone event “Uncorked: Sip. Shop. Savor.” More than 450 people attended the Uncorked event and Westfield donated more than $10,000 this year. “Westfield is proud to be a partner with The Foundation for Las Virgenes Schools. The Foundation is a true champion for the children and the families that they serve, and they do so with passion and fun,” said Molly Unger, senior general manager at Westfield Topanga, The Village and Promenade. In addition, there was incredible local business support at The Event this year. Brent Polacheck, owner of Polacheck’s Jewelers, surprised guests by doubling his donation during the live auction,

helping to raise $20,000, and Barry Rudin, owner of Barry Tickets, donated numerous one-of-a-kind sporting experiences, sold out concerts, and unique sports memorabilia, helping to raise over $15,000 during the silent and live auctions. According to the district’s superintendent, Dr. Dan Stepenosky, “The Foundation and its all-volunteer board have worked tirelessly to unite businesses and residents throughout our community to provide sustainable and consistent funding for our schools with phenomenal results. It is because of the strong support we receive from our parents and local business leaders that our incredible teachers and staff have the resources they need to offer exceptional educational opportunities for our children.”

“We are reaching out to everyone in our community — whether they have had students in our district in the past, are current parents, are local business owners or are just residents who benefit from the proximity to an award-winning district — and asking them to join us in supporting our incredible schools,” said Glassberg. If you would like more information on how you can help support, please visit their website at TheFoundationLVS.org n

The Foundation hopes to continue to grow its business outreach program and increase its support for the community’s local schools in the future. Deanna Glassberg, president of The Foundation, believes that “at the core of a strong community is a strong school district. Property values, quality of life, a healthy business environment, our reputation as a place to live and raise kids — all are affected by the quality of our local schools.”

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Love them, but protect them. By Marc Cohen

mart phones have expanded our universe to areas previously unimaginable. They are glued to our sides, and we can’t function without them. They must be no more than two inches from our bodies at all times. We are more efficient and more functional than ever before. We use our smart phones for just about everything. From navigating the globe and finding our friends to making restaurant reservations and playing games, these phones do it all. Thousands of useful applications make our lives and our children’s lives more enjoyable and informative. However, there is a downside. We have had our privacy invaded by hackers, advertisers, and in some cases, the federal government. We may have inadvertently exposed our children to risks that were unimaginable 10 years ago. Today, our kids are using Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and thousands of similar programs. We have allowed them to interact with people we don’t know, that may or may not be appropriate. We have seen movies and read articles about sexual predators who use social media as a method of reaching our children. Can you remember 10 years ago when we taught our kids about “stranger danger,” telling them to never talk to anyone they don’t know? Well, now, they potentially do that every

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time they turn on their phones or tablets. No matter where I go, I see kids of all ages using their devices as their main source of entertainment. Let’s look at some of the apps and check out the risk. One word of caution, though: Monitor their online interactions. Kids will hate it. They will accuse you of interfering with their lives, but the consequences of failing to do so could have catastrophic results. Facebook is the most popular program in the world today. It has been brilliant for many people who want to reconnect with old friends or inform everyone about their daily lives. Unfortunately, it’s also used for political rhetoric and sales. Don’t accept friend requests from people you don’t know. Don’t tell the world that you are going to Hawaii for two weeks, because that simply informs someone your house is available to be broken into by a thief. Am I overly cautious? Probably. What was it our parents always said: “Better safe than sorry”? Instagram is the hottest program lately, but sharing your pictures and your lives with hundreds or thousands of people you may or may not know is not always the best practice. Be careful about sharing your life with people that you would never have shared with before.

Everyone uses YouTube. It’s fun, has great dog videos, and is generally safe to use. If your children are making their own YouTube videos, make sure they are careful about not sharing their locations, how wealthy their parents are, how expensive their homes might be, etc. This becomes open season for predators. Much of the risk comes from chat programs, available on many apps like Facebook and Snapchat. Snapchat is unique in that the messages disappear from the phone after a few seconds, and if you use Wi-Fi, there is no cost to the user. It’s attractive to kids or adults who don’t want anyone to trace their messages. The only thing you can do here is to educate; let them know that nothing really disappears. There are Snapchat hacks that tell you how to bypass many of the features of the program. We should all understand that text, posts, pictures, and such never really, officially disappear. You have most likely heard about cyberbullying, frequently used to anonymously harass or embarrass someone by sending texts, pictures, and videos. It can happen to adults as well as children and, in some cases, has led to increased use of alcohol, drugs, and suicide. Again, educate, sit down with the kids, and explain the risks involved. Be active and aware of their surfing activities and, yes, restrict their use until they are at least 35. Dads, that is a great dating rule for your daughters. For those of you who worry about your kids sexting or hiding photos on their devices, you have reason to be concerned. As parents, we can’t be naïve; we need to be informed; it happens. There are many photo-hiding apps, like Private Photo Vault, KeepSafe, and SpyCalc. In different ways, they allow someone to hide their pictures. They can look like an innocent calculator or use some type of security password that no one but the user has access to. All you can do here is look at these devices and review each program to see what they do. Your best bet is to google the name of the app, and it will show you what it does. Some of the more invasive but helpful apps can help you track someone. For instance, Apple uses Find My Friends. Through its GPS service, it actually pinpoints the location of the user. This can be helpful for those late nights when the kids are out roaming the streets. Both parties have to agree to the usage.

Lastly, and often most expensively, are the programs that entice you to buy something or expose you to products you wouldn’t want your young children seeing. It might be as innocent as an in-game purchase for Warcraft or an ad discussing the virtues of vaping. The ads appear on almost every webpage or program you have. For just 99 cents, you can advance in a game. Well, 99 cents can quickly turn into hundreds of dollars. These ads are targeted based on your searching preference; if you are looking for a TV, then suddenly, you will see non-stop ads for televisions. Let’s face it: We love our smart devices. I, for one, don’t know how I could survive without one. But more important than our enjoyment is protecting our families. Be safe, be cautious, be aware. Explain why you have this restriction to the kids. It just might save them embarrassment or, sadly, something much worse. By the way, please don’t tell them I suggested these safeguards. I don’t want every kid in the neighborhood hating me. I love to be loved! n See you on the radio! Marc

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club life Calabasas Country Club Honors Dads Families enjoyed an endless buffet at Calabasas Country Club to honor their great dads and granddads. This year Fatherâ€™s Day was celebrated at the Club during two seatings that were sold out!

Lifeâ€™s Memorable Occasions Celebrated at CCC Club members, Toni Yamin and her husband Rod, chose the Grille Room with its view of the golf course for a special birthday party for Toni. Many friends enjoyed the party.

For information on membership, contact Steve Gincig: 818.444.5548 or steve@calabasasgolf.com 106

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At Calabasas Country Club Kids and Families Celebrate the Best of Summer at CCC If kids want to have fun – just add water! That’s exactly what Calabasas Country Club did during a summer carnival event! The highlight was the “frozen water slide” where kids cooled off and had an icy blast during one of the warm summer days!

Jazzing It Up at the Club Members and guests enjoy the camaraderie during “Happy Hour” at CCC. The great jazz musicians had everyone feeling rejuvenated. Calabasas Country Club hosts a happy hour with fabulous free appetizers – providing the perfect venue to socialize with old friends and meet new ones.

General Information: 818.222.8111 | info@calabasasgolf.com | calabasasgolf.com Calabasas Style 107

The Kevin Cordasco Foundation: Something Yellow Honors

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month By Beth Cone Kramer

uring his seven-year battle with neuroblastoma, Kevin Cordasco was a fixture in Calabasas. He was named Citizen of the Year in 2008 and was presented with the Courage Award by proclamation of the city council. Kevin also served as honorary mayor in 2013. February 11 is recognized as Kevin Cordasco Day in the city. When he was diagnosed with stage 4, highrisk neuroblastoma at just 10-years-old, he faced his journey with courage, strength, and the belief that he would heal and make a difference. During Kevin’s struggle, he shared his story openly and was an outspoken advocate for childhood cancers. Sadly, Kevin passed away in March 2013 at just 16 years, 7-months-old. Kevin made a difference in so many lives and his legacy continues with the Kevin Cordasco Foundation: Something Yellow, which his family started in his honor, committed to bringing attention to the heroes of childhood cancer during September, which is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and throughout the year. The foundation holds annual campaigns during September, with proceeds supporting both research and projects that improve the lives of patients and their families. “We empower everyone to get involved, make a statement, and make a difference for our heroes – by wearing something yellow,” shares Kevin’s parents, Melodie and Kevin Cordasco of Calabasas.

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Las Virgenes Unified School District Superintendent, Dan Stepenosky and the LVUSD will be working with the foundation on events to honor the National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, which will kick off on August 26 at Agoura High School with the Agoura/Calabasas football game. Players, students, and fans from both schools are encouraged to show support by wearing something yellow. The game will feature a special half time tribute to heroes of childhood cancer, and Something Yellow merchandise will be available. All schools within the district will come up with ideas to honor childhood cancer by wearing or displaying something yellow. Recently, the Kevin Cordasco Foundation met with the middle and high schools of the LVUSD to share the foundation’s vision. After viewing the foundation’s 12-minute video, his father, Kevin Cordasco adds, “The room was quiet for minutes and the kids got it. I explained that what they were feeling was compassion. It’s a wonderful feeling, although they also felt sad. It was incredible to see the response of those kids. Maybe this will inspire one of them to a life in the medical field, helping other children.” Each year, according to the National Cancer Institute, over 15,000 children from birth to 19 are diagnosed with cancer and over 40,000 undergo treatment. Pediatric cancer receives less than 5% of research funding in the United States. n For more information on The Kevin Cordasco Foundation: Something Yellow, please visit somethingyellow.org.

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By Anna D. Guanche, MD Bella Skin Institute

kin cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer in the U.S., and the number of cases continues to rise. There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Basal cell and squamous cell cancers are less-serious types and make up 95% of all skin cancers. Also referred to as non-melanoma skin cancers, they are highly curable when treated early. Melanoma, made up of abnormal skin-pigment cells called melanocytes, is the most serious form of skin cancer and causes 75% of all skin cancer deaths. Left untreated, it can spread to other organs and is difficult to control. What are the risk factors for skin cancer?

Sun Exposed Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or sunbeds is the main cause of skin cancer. Three sunburns can increase the risk of melanoma by 40%! More than eight in 10 cases of melanoma could be prevented through enjoying the sun safely and avoiding sunburn. There are two main types of UV rays that damage skin. Both types can cause skin cancer: • UVB is responsible for the majority of sunburns. • UVA penetrates deeper into the skin. It ages the skin, but contributes much less towards sunburn . Tanning-bed bulbs give off UVA and UVB, but the mixture of the two is usually different than natural sunlight and the UV is often much stronger. Sunburn is a clear sign that the DNA in skin cells has been damaged by too much UV radiation. Getting painful sunburn just once every two years can triple your risk of melanoma skin cancer. Sunburn doesn’t have to be raw, peeling, or blistering. If your skin has gone pink or red in the sun, it’s sunburned. Sunburn is caused by UV from the sun. You can’t feel UV rays — the heat from the sun comes from infrared rays, which can’t burn you. This is why people can still burn on cool days.

Dysplastic (Nevi) Moles Dysplastic or atypical moles are unusual, benign moles that may resemble melanoma. People who have them are at increased risk of developing single or multiple melanomas. The higher the number of these moles someone has, the higher the risk; those who have 10 or more have 12 times the risk of developing melanoma

compared to the general population. Dysplastic nevi are found significantly more often in melanoma patients than in the general population.

Genetically Predisposed A person with a primary family member that has been diagnosed with malignant melanoma — like a sibling, parent, or child — will have a 50% higher risk of developing a melanoma. Fair-skinned individuals with lighter skin, blond or red hair, and light eyes are at higher risk for all types of skin cancer. Individuals who “cannot tan” or have many freckles should avoid excessive sun exposure.

Many (Nevi) Moles Individuals with more than 51 to 100 moles on their body have 3.7 times the risk of developing melanoma than the general population. This is because melanoma often arises in existing moles and having numerous moles increases the risk. Individuals with more than 100 moles are at 7.6 times the risk of developing melanoma than the general population. Some gene mutations within tumors are being studied, and there is an indicator gene that can be tested, but this testing is not specific and is currently reserved for very high-risk individuals.

Pregnant Women Researchers estimate that nearly one-third of cases of melanoma are diagnosed in women during their childbearing years. Since many women now are delaying pregnancy until their 30s or 40s, coupled with the fact that melanoma is the most common form of cancer for young adults 25 to 29 years old, more women could be faced with developing melanoma before or during pregnancy. What’s more, women diagnosed with melanoma during or shortly after pregnancy are significantly more likely to have tumors spread to other organs and tissues and are also much more likely to have the cancer recur after treatment, a recent study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found. Close monitoring for new or changing moles during pregnancy is very important.

this is a lifestyle correlation or a true effect of the drug.

Parkinson’s Disease Individuals with this condition have a fourfold risk of being diagnosed with malignant melanoma. Studies are underway to elucidate why this is the case.

Immunosuppressed/Stressed Transplant patients are given drugs to suppress their immune system so that it will not attack the donated organ as a foreign invader; the drugs enable the body to accept the organ. Unfortunately, immune-suppressed people, including recipients of all major solid organs, have a much higher risk of skin cancers than people in the general population. Squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common skin cancer, is the most frequent problem, occurring 65 to 250 times more often in transplant patients, but melanoma also occurs six to eight times more frequently. Stress and illness can also depress the immune system and prevent it from effectively inhibiting the growth and spread of unwanted cells. This is a sobering — and by no means comprehensive — summary of the factors that predispose us to skin cancer. It is a bit frightening, as it should be. We are fortunate to have control over some aspects of these risks. Remember that sun (UV) exposure is the main cause of skin cancer, and we can do something about it. Sunscreen and sun avoidance, as well as performing regular body self-exams, are important. We are empowered by the understanding of our risk factors. We should not let them ruin our peace of mind but use them in order to be proactive about our health. n The statements in this article are for general informational purposes only and do not substitute for individual medical advice.

Men who Take Viagra A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that men who used the erection-enhancing drug sildenafil (Viagra) were 84% more likely (almost twice as likely) to develop melanoma over a period of 10 years. The jury is out as to whether

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Comprehensive Knowledge, Highest Ethics, Best Results • 95% of patients have significant pain relief from the first treatment • Immediate appointments available for acute pain • Open access to patients needs (concierge without fee) • Removal of the disc without surgical incision • The best results of PRP (platelet rich plasma) • Stem Cell Therapy for sports injuries • Kyphoplasty for vertebrae fracture • New treatment for Fibromyalgia and bladder pain

“California Spine and Pain Institute is the best choice to treat your pain.”

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Are You Hearing Your Best?

HearClear By Iris Stone

Are You Hearing Your Best? If you are noticing that you are having difficulty hearing, answer these questions to see if you should get your hearing tested. Do people seem to mumble or talk in a softer voice than they used to? Yes o No o

There is new awareness in preserving patients’ health and safety by identifying and treating hearing loss. Many prevalent health conditions in boomers and seniors have a very strong link with hearing loss. Hearing loss is tied to a three-fold higher incidence of injury-causing falls. Untreated hearing loss can affect cognitive brain function, especially in older people, and is associated with early onset of dementia.

When in a crowd or a busy restaurant, is it hard for you to follow the discussion? Yes o No o

While many think of hearing loss as an inevitable part of the aging process, it should not be considered a benign condition that is passively dealt with. We know today that Do you feel the need to turn up the volume on your TV or radio the consequences of untreated hearing loss can have a far so that it is too loud for others? reaching and devastating impact. Yes o No o Do you often need to ask others to repeat themselves? Yes o No o Has someone close to you pointed out that you may have a hearing problem? Yes o No o

How did you do? Your answers may provide an early indication of whether or not your hearing is impaired. If you answered “Yes” to one or more of these questions, you should contact Hear Clear Hearing Aids to schedule an appointment for a complimentary hearing consultation and a live demonstration of new, ground-breaking hearing technology. Imagine better hearing and understanding on the phone, while watching TV, in conversations at restaurants, in the car, and even on a windy day.

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Greater emphasis is being placed on hearing health and, thus, the revolution of new technology! New hearing health technology is… • Revolutionary in the way it captures, purifies, and processes more of the sounds in all of your dynamic listening environments. • Able to automatically adapt to any listening situation, no matter how complex. • Available in multiple technology levels and discreet models to suit every hearing loss, preference, cosmetic need, and budget. There are newer platforms designed to bring patients closer to natural hearing, which results in understanding conversations in a wide range of situations. One manufacturer has an enhanced beam-forming algorithm designed for difficult listening situations which can be accessed by a remote, a button on the hearing aid, or via a smartphone. Spatial speech focus is a self-steering

Iris Stone is the only practicing audiologist in Calabasas

(via smartphone or remote) binaural program designed for situations with talkers from side and back directions in noisy situations. Some hearing instruments can provide the hearingaid wearer in a cocktail party-like situation better speech recognition than people with normal hearing.

New technology today includes: • • • • •

Hearing aids that are invisible, Hearing aids that can be worn 24/7, Hearing aids that are waterproof, Hearing aids that are rechargeable, Hearing aids that are designed with lithium-ion batteries lasting through a lifetime of the hearing aid, • Hearing aids made for use with smartphones, therefore no need for remote controls, allowing the user to stream phone calls, Facetime, etc., direct to their hearing aids. People with hearing loss can now be on an equal footing with everyone else. Hearing-aid technology today is designed to give the brain the clearest, purest sound signals! n Iris Stone, Audiologist • Fellow of the American Academy of Audiology, Academy of Doctors of Audiology, California Academy of Audiology • Active in the community, offering free seminars and workshops in senior centers and senior living facilities, on the board of directors of Calabasas Chamber of Commerce, Deputy Sheriff Calabasas Chamber of Commerce • Recipient of the 2016 small business award from the United Chambers of Commerce • Continues to stay current with the newest research and technology, presently working on a second doctorate degree in audiology.

SPECIAL PROMOTION! Free accessory (phone, Bluetooth device, TV listening system, remote) with binaural purchase of premium technology, while supplies last.

Don’t miss another conversation! Call Hear Clear Hearing Aids today to schedule your appointment at either of our convenient locations. 1211 Maricopa Hwy., #109 HearClear Hearing Aids 4764 Park Granada, #109 Calabasas

Ojai 818.222.HEAR (4327) 805.646.4520

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SoCal Sinus

10 Reasons to See an Expert Nose and Sinus Doctor

By Dr. Alen Cohen

f you’re one of the millions of Americans who suffer from allergies, sinus infections, nasal congestion, sinus headaches, or other causes that lead to difficulty in breathing, it’s time to visit an expert nose and sinus doctor. Your general practitioner is undoubtedly incredibly knowledgeable and skilled in treating the overwhelming majority of illnesses he or she is presented with, but if you have recurrent or ongoing sinus infections, chronic or daily sinus headaches, or chronic nasal congestion, then it’s time to visit a nose and sinus specialist. As one of the most respected and recognized nose and sinus surgeons in Southern California, Alen N. Cohen, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.A.R.S., is a board-certified ENT/head and neck surgeon treating patients throughout Southern California. Here are 10 reasons to schedule a consultation with one of Los Angeles’ best nose and sinus specialists today.

1. You get a sinus infection each year Acute sinusitis is the term for the condition where one develops facial pain along the sinuses, experiences infected discharge from the nasal cavities, and often presents with low-grade fevers. This disruptive and painful condition can last up to four weeks and still be termed acute sinusitis. As an expert nose and sinus specialist, Dr. Cohen can provide you with helpful tips for preventing future infections and provide a thorough examination to ensure that

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there isn’t a blockage or other underlying issues causing your acute sinusitis.

2. You suffer from chronic sinusitis One sinus infection a year is more than anyone should have to deal with. Unfortunately, millions of Americans suffer from chronic sinusitis, which lasts more than 12 weeks and produces symptoms such as chronic sinus headaches, chronic nasal congestion, chronic thick nasal discharge, sneezing, and difficulty smelling or tasting. If you suffer from chronic sinus infections, it’s time to see a sinus specialist to determine the cause and begin to take steps towards a solution.

3. You suffer from chronic allergies Anyone who has allergies knows just how disruptive they can be to everyday life. With runny, itchy nose/eyes; a scratchy/sore throat; a stuffed nose; and constant sneezing, allergies can definitely get in the way. Whether you suffer from year-round or seasonal allergies, it’s time to visit a nose and sinus specialist. There are many ways to treat allergies, ranging from simple medications to lifestyle/environmental changes to allergy shots.

4. You have difficulty breathing through your nose Whether you broke your nose at a young age or were born with a deviated septum, you may find yourself struggling to breathe day and night. If that describes you and you’re tired of using

breathe-rite strips or over-the-counter Afrin, then you should visit a nose and sinus specialist like Dr. Cohen. Often the cause of chronic nasal obstruction is a deviated septum, however other causes are common, such as chronic sinusitis, chronic severe allergies, nasal polyps, or large turbinates. Only an expert nose and sinus surgeon will be able to identify the source of blockage and provide you with options for treating or removing the blockage so you can breathe effortlessly once again.

5. You have suffered a broken nose If you have suffered a broken nose, it is important to visit a top-reviewed Southern California nose and sinus specialist in order to ensure that the fracture (break) will not cause ongoing problems, including obstruction of your airways. Dr. Cohen and his associate, Dr. Hershcovitch, who is fellowship trained in facial plastics, are able to address the functional (breathing) issues associated with a fracture and all of the cosmetic issues to give you the nose you’ve always dreamed of aesthetically.

6. You suffer from chronic sinus headaches If you suffer from daily or chronic sinus headaches and they’ve stopped responding to OTC medications, then you need to visit an expert nose and sinus specialist to get to the root cause of these debilitating headaches. Often sinus headaches can be treated with simple prescription medications or nasal sprays, however if you fail to respond, then there may be more serious issues, like underlying polyps, bacterial or fungal infection, or anatomical issues within the nose and sinuses. Dr. Cohen and his team at Southern California Sinus Institute (SCSI) employ state of the art nasal endoscopy equipment, mini sinus CT scans, in-office skin allergy testing, and various other equipment to definitely determine the cause of your headaches. If you do have an obstruction or infection or even polyps, you may be a candidate for either a short in-office balloon sinuplasty procedure under local anesthesia or minimally invasive, image-guided endoscopic sinus surgery as an outpatient, which can significantly improve your quality of life and get rid of your sinus headaches once and for all.

7. You suffer from sleep apnea Sleep apnea is not something to ignore. This condition can prove fatal if not treated properly. Sleep apnea is the term for a condition where your breathing stops or gets very shallow while you sleep. Each pause in breathing typically lasts 10 to 20 seconds or more. These pauses can occur 20, 30, 40, or more times an hour. A lack of oxygen to the body is dangerous, and untreated sleep apnea can increase your chances of developing high blood pressure or heart disease and/or increase your chance of stroke. If you believe you suffer from sleep apnea, it is vital to see an expert ENT doctor immediately.

certified ENT immediately. Dr. Cohen and his partners are expert at diagnosing the cause of your snoring and discussing options. Often, it may be as simple as fixing your nasal obstruction.

9. You have had sinus surgery but have not gotten relief If you’ve had sinus surgery in the past and are continuing to suffer from the same symptoms as before the surgery, or if you have new, more troubling symptoms, visit an expert sinus surgeon today at the SCSI. Dr. Cohen performs many revision sinus surgeries from patients who are unsatisfied with the results from a surgery performed by a different surgeon. As such, he has gained a reputation in Southern California for fixing “botched” nose and sinus surgeries by others.

10. You want a second opinion If you’ve been told by a doctor that you need sinus surgery but you want to confirm that this is the best course of treatment for your unique symptoms, schedule an appointment with Dr. Alen Cohen, who has received the following accolades: 2013-2016 Los Angeles Magazine Super Doctor 2009-2016 America’s Top Surgeons, ENT/Head and Neck Surgery (Consumer Research Council of America) 2008-2016 Patient’s Choice Award - Vitals.com 2008-2016 Most Compassionate Doctor – Vitals.com 2011-2016 Leading Physicians of the World 2012-2016 Healthgrades.com Recognized Physician 2012-2016 Who Is Who of Doctors As such, Dr. Alen Cohen is considered one of Los Angeles’ best nose and sinus specialists and routinely helps a tremendous number of patients that visit him from near and far. In 2009, he founded SCSI in West Hills to help treat the multitude of patients with various nose and sinus problems. Since that time, he has personally performed over 4,000 nose and sinus procedures of which 1,000 were performed in the office under local/topical anesthesia via the revolutionary in-office balloon procedure, leading his center to become designated as a Sinus Center of Excellence by Entellus. Dr. Cohen routinely trains physicians from around the country who fly in and watch his life-changing procedures. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Cohen and his team at SCSI, call 818.888.7878 at your earliest convenience and get back to life! n Alen N. Cohen, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.A.R.S. Board-Certified Nose & Sinus Surgeon / Head & Neck Surgeon Assistant Clinical Professor, UCLA Chief of Surgery, West Hills Hospital & Medical Center CEO, C/V ENT Surgical Group Founder & Director, Southern California Sinus Institute (SCSI)

7345 Medical Center Dr., #510 West HIlls 818.888.7878

8. You snore loudly

16500 Ventura Blvd., #420 Encino 818.986.1200

Loud snoring is often indicative of an obstruction and may also be a symptom of sleep apnea. If you’ve been told that you snore loudly or if you have woken yourself up from your own snoring, you should schedule an appointment with a board-

cvsurgicalgroup.com socalsinus.com losangelessinussurgeon.com

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CSM is honored to share the stories of these courageous individuals, unfortunately not all could participate in the photo shoot

Surviving Cancer

Controlling the Uncontrollable

By Lori Berezin Photography by Marvin Steindler

leven survivors shared with us their hard-won tips on winning the war with cancer. These brave souls chose not to be passive victims of their illnesses, which included cancer of the breast, thyroid, cervix, liver, prostate, lungs, and more. With their words, they hope to inspire others and those closest to them to heal, as they continue to volunteer, write books, and advocate for better healthcare.

no other,” remarked Jennifer Levin. “It is going to be hard, the hardest thing you have ever done. God has given us strength. You are going to use this strength now to its fullest and you will survive and you will be okay. We are all here for you.” Jennifer continues, “The best advice I received was from Lisa Roub. She told me, ‘This will be the worst year of your life; however you will get through this and you will be okay. I love you.’”

EMBRACE CANCER

Gail Lemberger also relied on her family. “Later, after I had finished my treatments, I found Cancer Support Community Valley/Ventura/Santa Barbara in Westlake Village. It offers hope, education, and support from others also living with cancer.” The Internet can also be an incredible resource for research and reaching out. Just take care not to overdo it.

Embracing a disease sounds crazy, right? Not to Robert Towne, who faced three different types of cancer in a single year, yet continues to thrive. “The best advice I received was to embrace your illness and create a plan to treat and manage your cancer. And make sure you have a plan B at all times, in case there are curve balls.”

TAKE ALLIES ALONG ON THE RIDE The journey begins the moment one receives the devastating diagnosis until the final “all clear.” Pouneh Minovi Kaufman and others discovered an invaluable support group close to home. “My support system came from my family and friends. Initially, I didn’t want to discuss my thyroid cancer with anyone, as I did not want pity. However, I soon realized that speaking with friends and family allowed me to get connected with new resources and tools to get through the process.” “You just joined a club you never wanted to be a member of; however, the members of this club will support you and love you like

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SUPPORT FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS IS A TWO-WAY STREET For many, family and friends help pave the way to a full recovery. Others encounter a few roadblocks along the way. Courtney Lasater said, “Friends and family were facing a different type of battle, but one where they could process emotions. I didn’t have time to be the strong one for my loved ones as I had before. I often felt frustrated by feeling the need to lift each one of their spirits while I was fighting for my life.” Tracy Smith, who helped organize this incredible group, recommends that anyone can, “reach out a hand to someone who is suffering through this…just a phone call, a text, or providing a meal is always useful.”

BE YOUR OWN ADVOCATE

TAKE CONTROL OF AN UNCONTROLLABLE SITUATION

Doctors are only human. They make mistakes. Always follow your instincts if you feel there’s something wrong.

Vicki shares, “The best advice I received came from a friend who told me to tape record all my doctor appointments. I could then go home and replay what they’d said and try and decipher what it all meant. She told me to get a copy of every test the doctors performed and encouraged me to take control of my care.”

“My lump was misdiagnosed for seven months,” expressed Lisa Roub. “It’s by the grace of God that I’m alive today. I followed my intuition and was extremely proactive and made some very good and lucky decisions. Had I listened to the first few doctors I met with and been more conservative, I would have been in big trouble within a few months.” Courtney agrees, “You are the one who will fight hardest for your own life. Do research. Don’t be afraid to ask follow-up questions until you understand what your doctor is saying. Fight like hell.”

FORGIVE YOURSELF, FORGIVE OTHERS Although many cancer treatments and surgeries change the way you look on the outside, they don’t have to alter your inner values or self-esteem. “I have had to learn to forgive myself,” Courtney discovered. “Cancer comes with a lot of guilt — whether justified or not. I have learned to forgive myself for not being the wife or mother or daughter or friend I would have been otherwise. I have had to forgive myself and grieve the person that I was. That is a constant struggle — comparing myself to the ‘me’ I was before cancer. I have had to learn to love the person I have become because of what I have gone through.”

IGNORE THE STATISTICS “You are not a number, so don’t become overwhelmed by statistics,” Courtney stresses. Your cancer is your own and will follow its own course.

KEEP THE FAITH Become an “expert” in your particular diagnosis. Vicki Murphy emphasizes, “Surround yourself with people who believe in your ability to overcome and heal from this. I am a deeply spiritual person, so for me, prayer was imperative. That, along with all the healthcare professionals, saved my life! I was deeply touched and appreciative to the many people with whom I’d had very little contact over the years, who later told me they had been praying for me. Never, never, never give up. What I know for sure is the only thing more powerful than fear is hope!”

PATIENT, HEAL THYSELF Tracy states, “Be proactive. If you’re not feeling well, go to the doctor. Eat more organic and plant-based meals, and get sleep. My new favorites are to meditate and visualize.”

AFTERCARE Pouneh looks forward to the future. “What I would like to see change in the medical field for cancer is to have doctors focus on nutrition and alternative medicines in addition to the traditional treatments they provide…The beliefs I have adopted to keep cancer away have included stress management through acupuncture, eating organic and nutritious food, going to yoga to help me stay focused, and most importantly, getting enough sleep. I make sure to take time for myself everyday so I can stay grounded. I also believe staying positive and all the changes above have been key to being in remission for four years.”

FINAL THOUGHTS ON NEW BEGINNINGS We all face the possibility of a cancer diagnosis with every mammogram or prostate exam. And we should pay attention to any changes to our thyroid, ovaries, colon, lungs, and more. Avoiding the doctor is not the answer. Check it out. Survival rates greatly increase with an early diagnosis. All of our thriving survivors “appreciate every day that life has to give…it’s a gift.” These are terrific words to live by for anyone, anytime, whatever your circumstances. Kelli Parille sums it up best. “Do not give this disease any more time than it deserves,” she says, “and do not allow it to steal your joy. Have a positive attitude, and do not wallow in self-pity. We all have challenges in life, and this was mine. Attitude will get you through, and you will be very proud of yourself for the fight that you put up against cancer.” n

YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT We can all make minor and even major changes in our diet. Although it won’t guarantee good health, it will certainly make you feel stronger all around. Nicki Durlester likes to “follow a mostly plant-based diet and a supplement regimen recommended by my integrative MD, including whole-food-based products only. Additionally, I found acupuncture and cranial-sacral chiropractic to be a godsend…Exercise is another antidote in mitigating joint pain and boosting energy level. And then there is my beloved Matcha green tea, which I drink every morning. Recommended to me by my breast surgeon, I cannot start my day without it.” Wendy Jackson finds the best way to keep away cancer is “to make choices on things I can control — including removal of sugar in my diet and the use of non-carcinogenic products and organic foods.”

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24TH ANNUAL CARE FOR KIDS GOLF CLASSIC On July 18, the Rotary Clubs of Camarillo hosted the Care for Kids Golf Classic benefitting Casa Pacifica Center for Children and Families and the Camarillo Rotary Foundations. The golf classic was held at the Spanish Hills Country Club where a shotgun tournament ran as a four-person Texas Scramble. The trophies included 1st3rd places in both low gross and low net flights. All entrants enjoyed a package that included FootJoy golf shoes, Opolo Wine, and more. Lunch and snacks were included on-course, while a cocktail hour, live auction, and awards dinner followed the days’ competitive rounds. The event honored and remembered Bill Kohagen for his contributions to helping others in the community. This year the Rotary Club of Camarillo took the opportunity to present two Paul Harris Fellow Awards, which recognize individuals who make valuable contributions to their communities, to Matt Kohagen, honoree Bill Kohagen’s son, and Juliana Thiessen, Casa Pacifica’s Development and Events Coordinator.

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Fran Drescher Turns Pain into Purpose with

Cancer Schmancer

By Lori Berezin Photography by Melissa Westervelt “Not in my home... not on my skin... not in my stomach... not in my world” is Fran Drescher’s mantra for beating cancer.

Your Home parties, with all you need from the downloadable program on their website.

his past summer, the well-known actress and comedian spoke to a group of women in Hidden Hills about the prevalence and prevention of this not-so-funny disease. A cancer survivor herself, Fran started Cancer Schmancer in 2007 to help others understand how early cancer detection and education saves lives. Soon longtime friend Susan Cassel Holland came on-board to handle special events. Susan now serves as executive director.

Cancer Schmancer also promotes consumer advocacy. Fran continues to speak at universities and corporations. Their newest program, We The Future, encourages parents and kids to live healthier lives. Piloted in over 100 schools this past April on Earth Day, the Detox Your Home School Assembly Program focuses on wellness. It teaches impressionable teens how to make healthier choices, from the foods they eat to the products they use on their bodies and in their homes.

It took Fran, who survived uterine cancer, two years and eight doctors to finally receive her diagnosis. In 2002, she wrote The New York Times best seller Cancer Schmancer to help others avoid such trials. This led to her Cancer Schmancer Movement and Foundation. It became Fran’s life mission to improve women’s healthcare and empower people across the globe, shifting the priority from searching for a cancer cure to prevention and early detection. “If you catch it on arrival… 95% survival,” is Fran’s call to early detection.

We really are what we eat and don’t eat. Berries, such as strawberries and blueberries, contain powerful cancer-fighting properties. Eighty percent of our nation’s strawberries are produced in California. You should always choose organic. More than 200,000 pounds per square mile of pesticides are used in Ventura County each year. It has been scientifically proven time and again that pesticides are carcinogenic. Eating organic strawberries, for instance, is a far better choice than their chemical-laden cousins. Another area of research is the possible link between root canals and cancer. The bottom line is to discover the toxins in your life and eliminate them before they affect your health.

According to the American Cancer Society, there will be an estimated 1,685,210 new cancer cases diagnosed and 595,690 cancer deaths this year in the U.S. alone. The Cancer Schmancer organization hopes to greatly improve these odds through ongoing education and screening with mobile units, such as Fran Vans. In Los Angeles and New York City, they partner with Inner Images and Project Renewal’s Scan Van to provide life-saving cancer screening tests to women with limited access to such procedures. The Cancer Schmancer website also notes that 90% of cancer is lifestyle and environmentally related. “We have researched and developed our Detox Your Home program over the past three years,” Susan stated. They offer advice on detoxing both your home and body to improve health. They will even help you create Detox

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Cancer Schmancer will host their second annual Health Summit on October 26 at the Skirball Center in Los Angeles. A wide range of authors, health advocates, and practitioners will discuss a variety of topics, including traditional versus alternative medicine, GMOs, mental health, men’s health, detoxing your home, current environmental issues, and much more. Visit their website at cancerschmancer.org for further details. n Cancer Schmancer 23823 Malibu Rd. #311 Malibu 888.621.2001 cancerschmancer.org info@cancerschmancer.org

Don’t Miss Fran Drescher’s Health Summit! Wednesday, October 26, 2016 Skirball Cultural Center

An intense and educational day with the latest information on topics including GMOs, Mental Health, Detoxing your Home, Men’s Health, and more!

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Life Is Not What Happens to You. It is Whom You Choose to Become!

By Lori Berezin

Jesse London

here is no age limit on bravery. Eight-year-old Jesse London, who was recently diagnosed with the autoimmune disease alopecia, handles his condition with both dignity and grace. As with any autoimmune disease, the body attacks itself. In the case of alopecia, it targets its own hair follicles, leading to hair loss. There is no cure, but various treatments. Instead of hiding his beautiful crown under a cap, Jesse faced his fears head-on. He even spoke in front of 700 students about alopecia awareness during a recent Woodland Hills Elementary School assembly, a daring feat at any age. Jesse’s teacher, Andrew Chin, revealed his own shaved head at the assembly to show support. Since then, Jesse received over 50 letters from students thanking him for his inspiration. Jesse’s parents, Tali and Derek, could not be more proud. “It is important to love yourself the way that you are,” the young boy remarked. “I look different. I am still the same

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person. You should embrace differences and accept people the way they are. Smile, don’t stare! Be kind!” Jesse receives full support from his family and friends. Early on, they reached out to the nonprofit Children’s Alopecia Project, also known as CAP. Through the organization, they were invited, along with other CAP families, to visit the set of American Ninja Warrior. One of the contestants on the show, Kevin Bull, also suffers from alopecia. Overcoming obstacles, Kevin further inspired Jesse’s own Ninja-like courage. The president of the National Alopecia Areata Foundation (NAAF) recently contacted Jesse’s family, asking if their son would become a legislative liaison. Jesse’s already reached out to his local congressman. Although more than 6.8 million people in the United States and 147 million worldwide have had or will develop alopecia areata at some point in their lives, the public is barely aware of this disease. Jesse hopes to help spread the word by speaking at other local schools in the near future. n

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Hidden Hills Guys’ Ski Trip for

Brain Cancer

Update

By Elena Richards

wonderful and fun ski trip took place in February to raise money for brain cancer research. A total of 47 guys joined Patrick Finn for the long weekend of skiing in Utah while raising over $70,000 for the National Brain Tumor Society. Never in his wildest dreams did Patrick expect to raise this much money in memory of his friend Craig Aaronson. Though this ski trip is a tradition that goes back six years, Patrick and the guys said this was the most memorable trip because of what they were able to accomplish for brain cancer research. Besides raising a significant amount of money, they also had a lot of fun wearing the colorful brain ski-helmet covers that Patrick and his wife custom made by hand, bringing further awareness about this great cause. What an amazing testament to the generosity of our local community in raising this much money. Patrick would like to thank each and every person who donated or helped in any way.

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He especially thanks the foundations and local businesses that made significant contributions for the charity event, either through donations or by providing great prizes for the raffle: Turning Point Foundation -- $10,000 donation Anderson Family Foundation -- $5,000 donation Trillium Sports Medicine Ben Bridge Polacheck‘s Jewelers The Foundry Fine Jewelry by Janet Heller Sports LTD Pedalers Fork Maral Cuisine LUKE Bar & Restaurant Blaze Pizza Vincitore Restaurant Tonino’s Place Pizzeria The Six Restaurant Lovi’s Delicatessen Wades Wine Woodland Hills Wine Black Hill Farms and Family Vineyards Spellman Family Vineyard Little Valley Vineyards As a result of this charity event, Britt Aaronson was invited to participate in Head to the Hill, an annual event in Washington, D.C., and advocate on Capitol Hill for more awareness and funding for brain cancer research and treatments. She continues to work with the National Brain Tumor Society to bring awareness about the epidemic of brain cancer in the United States and its effect on families. n

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THE AGENCY

Midsummer Night’s Dream

Photography by Marvin Steindler

On August 4, a Shakespearean theme celebration was held at 25241 Prado del Grandioso in Calabasas. This gorgeous property, listed by Emil Hartoonian, was transformed into a whimsical event full of live music, beautiful décor, delicious bites, and themeinspired cocktails. The scene was set right when guests entered the front door. The enchanted forest came to life at the king’s table, with the live centerpiece becoming one with the hors d’oeuvres. A real-life mermaid engaged with attendees out in the infinity edge pool, and the notorious centaur, Puck, encouraged posed photos. The live music topped off the night as Saga Strings, a DJ and violinist duo, entertained the crowd. A portion of the proceeds of the sale of the home will be donated to Giveback Homes. This organization includes a trusted network of real estate professionals creating social change. By choosing to work with this organization, The Agency helps build a home for a family in need.

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Cabinetry 101 By Tammy Randall Wood, ASID

he first time I found myself contemplating kitchen cabinetry choices, I was utterly lost. I was still in my twenties and hadn’t yet finished design school when my husband and I embarked on our first remodeling project: a charming 1926 Dutch Colonial fixer upper on the East Coast. It was tiny, but it was wonderful -- or at least we hoped it could be after the remodel it desperately needed. The last remodel the place had seen was in the 1950s, and it wasn’t long before we had ripped out the old Formica counters, linoleum floors, and knotty pine cupboards and found ourselves looking at our new blank canvas. Our plans included an entire new kitchen and two completely refurbished bathrooms, which I did my best to plot out on graph paper. Our contractor marked off my layout with tape on the walls and floor and proceeded to ask me what type of cabinets I wanted. My response? “White ones.” He laughed. He said he could build them himself if we’d like, and I remember thinking how lucky we were to have found a contractor that could make cabinets. He started with a small bathroom upstairs, which was lucky, for as much as our contractor tried, it soon became clear that cabinet making was not his strong suit. His simple wood box for the sink vanity had two uneven slab doors laid over an equally irregular opening under the

sink. These were painted with flat wall paint and outfitted with unsuitably large, self-closing hinges that slammed shut with a force that seemed to shake the house every time they closed. So began my crash course in cabinetry. In the weeks that followed, I started flagging pictures in magazines of kitchens that I liked and taking note of all the details that appealed to me. I visited kitchen design showrooms and custom millwork shops, paying close attention as I learned about overlay versus inset, ready-made versus custom, factory finish versus site finishing. I came to realize that the details I had once overlooked were actually where most of the design impact and utility of cabinetry packages hinged.

Custom-built bathtub surround and makeup vanity design by Interior Archaeology

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Whether ready-made or custom, cabinets are largely constructed in one of two ways: either with their doors and drawers set into the frame (inset) or with them laid over the frame, partially obscuring them (overlay). Overlay cabinets tend to be seen in more contemporary design. Their hinges are frequently hidden, applied inside the frame for an uninterrupted look. Inset cabinets, on the other hand, have more of the look of a piece of furniture, which is seen often in traditional design. They typically have hinges visibly set into the space between the door and frame. Price can be comparable between the two types of construction, since it is always the case that the more detailed the project, the higher the cost. The first thing I learned about ready-made cabinets is that there are almost as many cabinet manufacturers on the market as there are furniture brands, and they have as varied a collection of looks and features as you’d expect in furniture. Most kitchen showrooms carry an array of these ready-made cabinet brands: names you might recognize, like Wood-Mode, Quakermaid, Columbia, Downsview, or Crystal Cabinets. Showrooms either provide installation or allow another contractor to install. Some higher-end cabinet companies, like Christopher Peacock and SieMatic, represent their own cabinets and also insist upon handling their own installation. It’s easy to be confused by the word “custom” when you come across it in a ready-made showroom referring to cabinets as custom if they are being manufactured for a particular order. In reality, even though they’re tailored to a project, they are still being ordered from a prescribed set of cataloged choices. From door styles to box widths, myriad predetermined selections within the line can be incorporated into your project, as well as options like glass fronts, bead-board paneling, leg styles, pilasters, crown molding, plinth bases, and the list goes on. This is where the showroom consultant’s knowledge of the specific brand’s options are key. The artful manipulation of the available choices can result in the most beautiful and functional space. What I like about working with ready-made cabinets is that what you see is what you get. When you see a sample in the showroom, you know that the product being installed will have all of the same features as the sample, such as self-closing drawer slides

Christopher Peacock kitchen installation design by Interior Archaeology

Close-up of a custom-built flat-panel drawer head with beaded detail in white-rift cut oak design by Interior Archaeology inset cabinets with a simple shaker door style and a lovely beaded detail around each opening, and to this day, that detail is one of my favorites to incorporate into my cabinet designs. Between glass fronts on some upper cabinets, tongue and groove detailing on the exposed end panels, and a pretty little open-fretwork apron on the underside of an upper bookshelf, we made great use of the customization options they provided. All the cabinets were ordered in a durable, baked-on, ivory-painted finish, and I sourced countertops in moss-green, honed slate.

and hinges, laminate interiors, or a long-lasting, durable factory finish, and you have a very good idea of what you’ll end up with before you pull the trigger. True custom cabinetry can be obtained through local cabinet shops, which may also be referred to as mill shops or custom millwork providers. Shops like these build their own cabinets and built-ins for each specific project from scratch. Some mill shops will finish their cabinets in-house, and some will only deliver and install unfinished cabinetry. In the case of the latter, another crew of painters or finishers can be hired to do the finishing onsite after the installation. The advantage to using a local custom provider is creative control. Custom cabinetry providers work from shop drawings, which are instructions for the assembly of the cabinetry design. An architect or designer will typically supply these designs to the millworker, though there are some cabinetry shops that provide these drawings for you. It’s through custom providers like these that I am able to design a very specific look or function to suit any given situation. Ultimately, for our little Dutch Colonial all those years ago, we chose a ready-made cabinet by Quakermaid. We spent more than we initially thought we would for our cabinets, but in the end, we were happy that we had. We bought them through a local lumber company and worked with their kitchen department manager, who was well versed in all the features Quakermaid offered. We chose

The end result was a simultaneously simple and beautifully detailed space, perfect for the home and perfect for us. Our kitchen was small, but worked as if it were much larger because each cabinet was ordered for function as well as form. The better part of 10 wonderful years were spent in that lovely kitchen, and for all of it, I was grateful that I had stopped the presses to learn the ins and outs of cabinetry. It turned out to be one of the biggest decisions we’d made as homeowners at the time, and it laid the foundation of what would become my love affair with cabinetry design. Until next time, here’s to creating your own Noble Spaces! n Tammy Randall Wood, ASID, is the founder and principal of Interior Archaeology. She has designed an extensive array of projects coast to coast -- from seaside cottages on Martha’s Vineyard, metropolitan penthouses and formal Beltway manors to cultivated West Coast compounds. Her firm brings a fresh approach to tailored interiors.

Tammy Randall Wood, ASID INTERIOR ARCHAEOLOGY 818.991.0365 InteriorArchaeology.com facebook.com/InteriorArchaeology instagram.com/interiorarchaeology

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Décor CALABASAS ST YLE ’ S FAVO R ITE ELEM ENTS BRONT MATTRESS At Bront Mattress, their goal is to provide you with the perfect bed so that you sleep well tonight to bring on tomorrow. With a wide range of beds to choose from, you can shop with confidence to find your perfect bed, like the Kingsdown Sleep Haven, featuring the most luxurious and technologically advanced materials. 22110 Ventura Blvd. Woodland Hills 818.914.4061 brontmattress.com

PACIFIC PATIO Outdoor luxury tailored to your lifestyle is what Pacific Patio is all about. You will transform any outdoor living space with this modular and custom Equinox Cabana by TUUCI. Add lighting or music to this structure for optimal relaxation. 28505 Canwood St. Agoura Hills 818.949.6120 pacpatio.com

ELEGANT FIREPLACE MANTELS The kitchen hood is the focal point of an elegant kitchen. Elegant Fireplace Mantels offers a stunning collection of hoods and matching corbels ranging from classical European styles to contemporary. Their exquisite collection features an array of designs, made from their trademark Renaissance Stone™ to create your unique kitchen hood design to perfection. 11949 Borden Ave. San Fernando 800.295.9109 elegantfm.com

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Calabasas Style has perused the local area to locate some of our favorite home décor elements, and we are excited to share them with our readers! ALDERMAN BUSHÉ INTERIORS The leather ottoman is perfect additional seating and a statement in any room. The unique design with its cinched waist, nail head trim, and swivel casters ensure effortless mobility. Let their design showroom help you with any interior design needs. 1881 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. Thousand Oaks 805.498.5588 aldermanbusheinteriors.com

CALIFORNIA FURNITURE GALLERIES You will love the contemporary and sophisticated styling of this gorgeous Palisades Sofa by Bernhardt Interiors. With its Luxe Down cushions and antique nickel nailheads, it is pure elegance. Discover classic furnishings and timeless style at California Furniture Galleries. 7939 Canoga Ave. Canoga Park 818.883.0890 californiafurnituregalleries.com

GLOBAL SOURCE LIGHTING This incredible Belladonna chandelier is sure to make a statement in your home. Featuring clear Firenze crystals and light pendant in the middle, this chandelier is modern yet chic. Visit Global Source Lighting for the world’s finest lighting and accessories. 28501 Canwood St. Agoura Hills 818.707.6000 globalsourcelighting.com

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Sweet

Dreams

Sleep Soundly with Bront Mattress By Pax Ansley Photography by Marvin Steindler

he average human spends roughly one-third of his or her lifetime asleep. Sleep, or lack thereof, can be the difference between sickness and health, stress and peace, or fogginess and clarity throughout the day. So, shouldn’t the bed where you spend so much of your life be a beloved sanctuary? If you are tired of tossing and turning your precious night hours away, it could be time for a new mattress. What you may not realize is that the quality of your mattress can directly affect the quality of your life. With the right mattress, you can fall asleep quickly, stay asleep, and wake up refreshed in the morning.

best mattress are at your fingertips. Bront’s team of customer service representatives is sure to steer you in the direction of your perfect mattress at the lowest price.

Mattress shopping can be a daunting task. With so many different options out there, it is no surprise that the average consumer has no idea which mattress would be best suited to his or her needs. Whether the sleep technology is firm or soft, traditional or new, the array of options grows all the time. At Bront Mattress of Woodland Hills, the right tools for choosing the

The options they offer range from memory foam, latex, handmade, or more traditional styles. With well-known and loved brands such as Serta, Simmons Beautyrest, Spring Air, Chattam & Wells, Kingsdown, Royal-Pedic, and Malouf Bedding, you are sure to find your perfect fit. According to their philosophy, “Sleep well tonight, bring on tomorrow,” Bront

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At Bront Mattress, they know the struggle of wading through the typical overloaded mattress showroom where you cannot tell one mattress from the next. With so many options to choose from in mattresses, Bront Mattress carefully handpicks only the best models on the market. Instead of a huge warehouse packed to the brim with every big company’s collection, Bront Mattress provides varieties based on the specific needs of its customers.

selects only the best-valued mattresses that provide customers with a good nightâ€™s sleep. Bront Mattress offers a different kind of mattress shopping experience. Their goal is to provide customers with a completely stress-free environment, void of any anxiety. Mattress shopping should be simple. Customers can rest assured knowing that Bront Mattress provides both an excellent product and excellent service to assist their decision-making process.

Bront Mattress has been serving Woodland Hills and the surrounding areas since October of 2015. The showroom is conveniently located on Ventura Boulevard, between Topanga Canyon Boulevard and Shoup Avenue. Make mattress buying simple, like it should be. Let Bront take care of you, so you can sleep soundly and take care of yourself. n 22110 Ventura Blvd. Woodland Hills 818.914.4061 brontmattress.com

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The Art of Hearth and Home:

Elegant Fireplace Mantels

Photo courtesy of Elegant Fireplaces

By Pax Ansley Photography by Marvin Steindler

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We constantly deliver products that exceed our customersâ€™ criteria and expectation. We are driven to be an integral part of our customersâ€™ continued success and are continually improving our day-to-day operation to provide our customer with the best solution for their homes.

ince ancient times, a dwelling’s hearth was a symbol of the home. It acted as the center of the home, around which the family would gather for the warmth of the crackling fire or the comfort of a home-cooked meal. These days, the necessity of a hearth is replaced with the luxury of a modern fireplace. A fireplace mantel speaks a thousand words about the house it stands in. A well-designed mantel may call to mind the delicately carved intricacies of a French château or the romantic strength and opulence of an Italian Villa. At Elegant Fireplace Mantels of San Fernando, they will help you create the perfect look for your home. Elegant Fireplace Mantels offers an exquisite collection of premade designs, the largest collection of fireplace mantels in North America, along with the option of a custom-made model. The decadent image of your living room that exists only in your mind’s eye can become a reality with the help of the experts at Elegant Fireplace Mantels. No dream is too big. If your perfect mantel does not appear in their gorgeous collections, they will use their state-of-the-art 3D CAD program for design to make your dreams a reality. “Our molds are made in-house by our craftsman, which gives us endless ability to manipulate any shape, curve, texture, and color imagined.” For Elegant Fireplace Mantels, a mantel is not simply plaster or marble; it is not just a ledge to put knick-knacks on. For these craftsmen, each piece that they design is art. With over 15 years in the business, Elegant Fireplace Mantels will help you transform your home and be with you every step of the way. From the first designs, to the final installation, these skilled artisans are there to answer any question and deliver an amazing piece of art that you are guaranteed to adore. Aside from their stunning work in fireplace mantels, Elegant Fireplace Mantels also offers a wide range of other fine architectural structures. Their vast collection includes ornate kitchen hoods and detailed corbels, along with awe-inspiring columns and eye-catching fountains. They create beautiful balusters, moulding, pilasters, and window sills. They also provide fireplace creation and repairing services, be it electric or traditional. Their San Fernando factory and showroom is located off of Borden Avenue, between Corcoran Street and Arroyo Avenue. One step inside their immense showroom will reveal the beauty and splendor of their pieces. Their work can also be found in prominent commercial successes, such as certain Las Vegas hotels and casinos. Their handiwork may be recognized at Caesar’s Palace, the Bellagio, MGM, Wynn, Venetian, and Paris Hotel — all resorts that are well-known for their attention to detail and stunning decor. Stop by the showroom and let Elegant Fireplace Mantels transport you to the home of your dreams. n 11949 Borden Ave. San Fernando 800.295.9109 info@elegantfm.com elegantfm.com

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The Jewish High Holy Days:

A Path to By Rabbi Stewart L. Vogel Temple Aliyah, Woodland Hills

Goodness

he Jewish High Holy Days begin with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, marked by a large family dinner and the eating of apples and honey, and they culminate on Yom Kippur, the day of atonement, with a day of fasting. After Hanukkah and Passover, Yom Kippur is the third most-widely observed Jewish holiday by American Jews. What is interesting about this statistic, is the fact that while Hanukkah and Passover epitomize the Jewish preference and reputation for family celebrations, fasting on Yom Kippur is a personal and private ritual of sacrifice. What are we to make of this? In truth, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are the outliers of Jewish holidays. All of the other holidays focus on remembering historical events and/or are connected to an appreciation of nature, while the essence of the High Holy Days deals with our personal behavior, our relationship with the people around us and God. To truly understand the High Holy Days, it is important to note that most people refer to them as “the High Holidays” and not “the High Holy Days.” The English translation for this time of year comes from the traditional Hebrew term “Yamim Noraim,” which can be best translated as “days of awe.” That should be the first clue that these are not your typical Jewish “holidays” and should be experienced as holy and transformative. If you ask the average Jewish person what we celebrate on Rosh Hashanah, he or she will probably tell you that it is the New Year of the Jewish calendar; Rosh Hashanah literally means “the head of the new year.” In truth, in its origins, it is nothing more than our January 1, the beginning of our calendar year, and a way of marking time. But Rosh Hashanah is so much more. According to rabbinic tradition, it celebrates the beginning of all time — creation. In beautiful rabbinic fashion, several thousand years ago, the rabbis designated Rosh Hashanah as the celebration of the sixth day of creation, the day on which people were created. As the High Holy Days developed into a period of deep personal reflection, it imbued with the concept that we can change who we are. In ancient times people believed in fate, that our lives are predetermined. Early on, Judaism fought this concept and taught that we can change our lives and our destiny by changing our actions. Therefore, each year on Rosh Hashanah, we are “born anew” with the opportunity to become who and what we want to become.

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The Ten Days of Repentance that mark the days from Rosh Hashanah until Yom Kippur are days of introspection and reflection. We are supposed to reflect on our misdeeds and how to better ourselves as human beings. We are supposed to look at the ways in which our misdeeds have affected the people around us and ask them for forgiveness. It is only after we engage in this process that we can be prepared to stand before God on Yom Kippur. On Yom Kippur, the most sacred Jewish day of the year, we stand before God prepared to be judged for the lives we lived during the previous year. In truth, we are judging ourselves as much as God is judging us. We are supposed to ask questions like, “Am I worthy of the precious and sacred life I have been given?” and “Am I living up to my potential for goodness?” It is difficult to judge ourselves; we often make excuses for our behavior. We fast — both food and liquid — while also refraining from bodily pleasures, in order to demonstrate the seriousness of our reflective process and to emphasize the idea that we can be masters of our actions. By tradition, this process takes place in the synagogue with Jews surrounded by their community. This communal experience teaches us that we are part of a community and that our actions can benefit or be detrimental to those around us. We are given strength in the knowledge that we are not alone in our search for goodness. The Hebrew word for sin is chet, which literally means “missing the mark,” while the Hebrew word for repentance is teshuvah, which literally means “return.” During the High Holy Days, we acknowledge the ways in which we are missing the mark and work to return our lives to the right path. The two greetings for this time of year are “L’shannah Tovah,” which is usually translated “Happy New Year,” but in truth, really means “for a good year.” We wish for people to have a year of goodness (i.e., good acts and a good life), rather than just being happy. It is my belief that if more people would work at being good and finding the goodness in their lives, that they would find the happiness that eludes them. n

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Sangria, Spritzers, and Tapas

AT BOGIES BAR & LOUNGE

Bogies Bar & Lounge at the Westlake Village Inn hosted a spectacular event to celebrate the recent remodeling and expansion of Bogies Outdoor Vista Terrace. The expansion allows guest to enjoy more of the majestic views of the innâ€™s beautiful lake, fountains, and vistas, making it the per fect venue to unwind and relax while enjoying their signature Sangria, Spritzers, and Tapas. In addition, Bogies has furthered their commitment to remain the best night club in Westlake Village. Bogiesâ€™ Musical Director, Ken Greene, continues to book the best musical artists for their live music concert series. Weekly events also include Latin night and club nights for dancing on weekends.

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Adventure Village

AT UNIVERSITY VILLAGE

Photography by Irene Marshall

On August 6, residents their adult children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren got up-close and personal to rare and unusual animals at University Village’s recent Family Day. This year’s event featured “Adventure Village” with 14 exotic animals provided by the Wildlife Learning Center. Young and old learned more about kinkajous, skinks, tegus, sloths, porcupines, macaws, and fennec foxes courtesy of the nonprofit organization based in Sylmar, California. Approximately 2,000 residents and their family members attended this year’s Family Day, the seventh annual for the Thousand Oaks location. Family Day offers University Village residents the chance to meet each other’s families. Each year the retirement community is transformed into a campus-wide carnival featuring games, portrait artists, face painters, and balloon twisters. Musical entertainment, a casino, comedy acts, and photo booths are also cause for excitement. Food is a major attraction for all with barbecue stations, ice cream sundae bars, and snow cone booths among the favorites.

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HIGHKARAT BUY • SELL • TRADE • CONSIGN Estate jewelry, watches, luxury designer handbags and accessories. In Westlake Village by appointment only.

calendar

of events

EVERY SATURDAY, 8:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. CALABASAS FARMERS MARKET Rain or shine, residents and visitors flock to Old Town Calabasas where a weekly farmers market replaces the old general store. Local vendors bring their fresh and exotic fruits, vegetables, flowers, baked goods and prepared foods to go. cityofcalabasas.com/farmersmarket.html

september

••••••••••••••• Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Flower Ring

Call us or visit www.highkarat.com for more information. Private appointments are available 7 days a week. In-home item assessment White glove service-Free pick up

info@highkarat.com | 323.376.2841

SEPTEMBER 3, 10:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M. BLUE SUN MUSIC & WINE FESTIVAL In celebration of the 35th Anniversary of the City of Westlake, the first annual Blue Sun Music & Wine Festival will take place at the Westlake Golf Course. There will be a beer and wine area featuring a large variety of wines from some of the top wineries and vineyards in California. There will also be a luxury and exotic automobile exhibit featuring top luxury and exotic automobiles to include Ferrari, Lamborghini, Bentley, Rolls Royce, and McLaren. For more information, visit bluesunfestival.com. SEPTEMBER 9 – 11, 12:00 P.M. – 11:00 P.M. THE CARNIVAL FOR LAS VIRGENES SCHOOLS FREE ADMISSION! To purchase ride tickets or a six-hour wristband for unlimited rides, visit thefoundationlvs.org. Located at Whizin Market Square, 28914 Roadside Dr. in Agoura Hills. SEPTEMBER 11, 4:30 P.M. MONA FOUNDATION — A GARDEN GALA Join the Mona Foundation for an exciting event benefiting education initiatives all over the world. An elegant summer evening of music and fine refreshments, hosted al fresco amidst roses and majestic views in the mountains above Malibu. The evening also includes an auction featuring a curated array of fine home furnishings. With special guest emcee, actor and Mona Foundation board member Rainn Wilson. RSVP to tammy@interiorarchaeology.com. Located at 2301 Kanan Rd., Agoura Hills. SEPTEMBER 16, 7:00 P.M. – 10:00 P.M. PHOTOGRAPHY AS ART: CAPTURING AN EXTRAORDINARY WORLD Andrei Duman of Andrei Duman Gallery and Westfield will host a joint photography exhibition and 100th book release and red carpet event with world-renowned photographer Art Wolfe. Join Art and Andrei as they take you on a visual tour of their favorite photography pieces from around the world. Complimentary food and wine. Located at 6316 N. Topanga Blvd. #1170, Woodland Hills. RSVP to info@andreidumangallery.com. For more information, visit andreidumangallery.com and artwolfe.com. SEPTEMBER 18, 8:00 A.M. JAKE’S LADDER — 5K WALK AND RUN The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is pleased to present the 13th Annual Jake’s Ladder, celebrating Jacob Dyne, who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF) at the age of 14 months. This festive event will be held at The Commons at Calabasas. To date, the event has raised over $1,900,000 and all proceeds from the event benefit the CF Foundation. To register or for more information, visit fightcf.cff.org/jakesladder.

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THE CLOSET ANNIVERSARY EVENT On August 4, The Closet by Sharon Segal and Nina Segal celebrated their one year anniversary. Guests enjoyed light bites, cocktails, a live DJ, henna tattoos, a raffle, and a gift with their purchase. Vendors included Love Swirls Cotton Candy, Lybations Signature Cocktails, Sicky Eyewear, Ziba Beauty, and Cotton Citizen, to name a few. The Closet offers both womenâ€™s and menâ€™s clothing, as well as a jewelry atrium by Nina Segal. The casual, yet hip, boutique features a denim bar, luxury tees, cashmere, and unique jewelry and accessories. Shoppers will find iconic brands such as Ariel Gordon, Burning Torch, Cotton Citizen, Dana Kellin, NSF, Scotch and Soda, Terry Snider, The Great, and more.

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SEPTEMBER 21 5:30PM 10TH ANNUAL FOOD AND FINE WINE TOUR Deck yourself out in your best Hollywood Glam and enjoy some food and wine! This year’s theme will be Hollywood Glam, come dressed to impress! Be ready for celebrity selfies, an Instagram contest, and the trolley is going to be a Star Wine Tour Bus! The 10th annual Food and Fine Wine Tour presented by The West Valley – Warner Center Chamber of Commerce. Located at The Auto Gallery Porsche & Audi located at 21301 Ventura Blvd., Woodland Hills. For more information, visit woodlandhillscc.net. SEPTEMBER 21 – 25 CALABASAS FILM FESTIVAL The Calabasas Film Festival (CFF) showcases major film premieres, student films, documentaries, and top-quality film selections from all genres that are guaranteed to entertain. CFF provides the community an opportunity to connect over mutual passions for film and television while enjoying local culinary arts and entertainment. CFF will always be where the heart of film lives. To view the schedule or to purchase tickets, visit calabasasfilmfestival.com. SEPTEMBER 30, 6:00 P.M. THE SCOTCH & WHISKEY PREMIER LIFESTYLE EVENT The Valley Cultural Center invites you for an evening of fun, laughter, and libation with first-class scotch and whiskey. This premier lifestyle event features an exclusive vehicle and aircraft display, the finest scotch and whiskey tastings, a firstclass cigar tasting bar, premium hors d’oeuvres, and luxury lifestyle exhibits. Located at 7900 Balboa Blvd. in Van Nuys. For more information, visit valleycultural.org.

october

••••••••••••••• OCTOBER 14, 6:00 P.M. – 11:00 P.M. VALLEY CULTURAL CENTER’S 41ST ANNIVERSARY GALA Put on your dancing shoes for Dancing with our Valley Stars! Event will include hors d’oeuvres, silent and live auction, dinner, live entertainment, a dance competition, and open dancing. Martini bar hosted by Valley Cultural Center and no-host bars. Evening attire. RSVP to 818.704.1358 or info@valleycultural.org. Located at Warner Center Marriott, 21850 Oxnard St., Woodland Hills. OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 16, 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. CALABASAS PUMPKIN FESTIVAL Event offers live bands, a DJ dance zone, marketplace vendors, delicious food and pumpkin treats, pumpkin beer, pumpkin painting, professional pumpkin carving, and more! The $5 admission includes all inflatables, a giant slide, Halloween carnival games, reptile and bug shows, a Saturday morning costume parade, car displays, bands, and a business expo. Located at 3701 Lost Hills Rd., Calabasas. For more information, visit calabasaspumpkinfestival.com. OCTOBER 20, 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. WEST HILLS HOSPITAL SEMINAR West Hills Hospital and Medical Center will be hosting a seminar at the Woodlnd Hills Country Club for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Details of the event can be found at westhillshospital.com/calendar. OCTOBER 22, 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. “HALLOWEEN PUMPKIN PARTY” AT LEONIS ADOBE MUSEUM Celebrate Halloween at the Leonis Adobe! Kids may dress up in costumes for a fun-filled afternoon. Enjoy Halloween crafts, pumpkins, and family music by Craig Newton, and feed the ranch animals. Located at Leonis Adobe, 23537 Calabasas Rd., Calabasas. For more information, please go to leonisadobemuseum.org or call 818.222.6511.

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OCTOBER 31 TRUNK-OR-TREAT Trunk-or-Treat is a community activity that celebrates Halloween in a family-friendly environment. This event allows children (under parent supervision) to trick-or-treat in a unique way. Vehicles provided by the business/organization/local community are parked in the AHCCC’s parking lot and decorated for some trick-or-treating fun! Additional activities round out Trunk-or-Treat to assure a memorable time, including games, treats, a Foggy Forest, and live music with DJ Dan from Party Zone. Sponsorship/advertising spots available until October 7! FREE to the public!

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••••••••••••••• NOVEMBER 2 22ND FULFILLMENT FUND STARS BENEFIT GALA 2016 Join the Fulfillment Fund in honoring Universal Filmed Entertainment Group Chairman Jeff Shell, who will be receiving the Tom Sherak Award. The STARS Gala will be at the Universal Studios Hollywood’s Globe Theatre, followed by an exclusive opportunity to explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter ™. For more information, visit fulfillment. org/stars. NOVEMBER 3 6:00PM – 10:00PM & NOVEMBER 4 10:00AM – 6:00PM 35TH ANNUAL GINGERBREAD BOUTIQUE The festive atmosphere of this evening makes it one of the Westlake Village Junior Women’s Club most anticipated events. Forty vendors will be present featuring unique gifts, jewelry, clothing apparel, and home goods. The funds raised this year from the Gingerbread Boutique will go to assist nonprofit charities in the Conejo Valley. Located at 5801 Kanan Rd., Westlake Village. For more information, visit westlakejuniors.org. NOVEMBER 5, 10:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. LAVENDER FAIRE Join MUSE for Lavender Faire! Shop their The Eco-Market, featuring upcycled, recycled, sustainable, and green products, some created by MUSE students! They will have activities such as a rock wall, face painting, live music and MORE! Free to the public! Located at 1666 Las Virgenes Cyn. Rd, Calabasas. For more information, contact mcordish@museschool.org or call 818.880.5437. NOVEMBER 6 RUN FOR CALABASAS Celebrate community, fitness, and fun at the Calabasas Classic Run! Explore the beautiful roads of Calabasas while completing a timed 5K/10K run course or enjoying a 1 Mile Fun Run. There will also be a post-run party expo for all to enjoy. For more information, visit calabasasclassicrun.com. The Calabasas Classic is USATF certified and sanctioned. NOVEMBER 9, 6:30 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. MUSETALKS PRESENTS MOBY MUSEtalks is a forum for the public to learn from leaders in sustainability, innovation, and education. Moby, singer-songwriter, musician, DJ, and photographer, will be signing his autobiography, Porcelain. Located at 1666 Las Virgenes Cyn. Rd., Calabasas. Free to the public! Reservations required. For more information, contact mcordish@ museschool.com.

Send in any calendar submissions three months in advance to: calabasasstylecalendar@gmail.com.

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SUNDAY FUN DAY WITH RESTORATION SKINCARE & SOULÉ SKIN SPA On August 7, Sarah B. Hall, founder of Restoration Skincare, partnered with Soulé Skin Spa to celebrate her all-natural line’s first year on the market with a private Sunday Funday spa event. VIP guests and bloggers all came out to be introduced to the line and have direct interaction with Sarah Hall. Comedian/actress Sherri Shepherd, comedian/actress Yvette Nicole Brown, and actress Erinn Hayes, are just some of the celebrities that were in attendance. Cherly Cotton, owner of Soulé Skin Spa, performed complimentary mini facials and oxygen spray treatments. Chair massages were provided by Royal Treatment Pampering Services, brow services were performed by beauty expert Sandra Dee Collins from Umberto Salon, and guests were treated to hand treatments performing by Sarah Hall using her Restoration Skincare’s Body Sugar Scrub.

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Helping Parents Raise Ethical Children

Rabbi Paul Kipnes

By Lori Berezin

abbi Paul Kipnes has served the Calabasas community for the past 18 years as spiritual leader of Congregation Or Ami. He looks forward to many more years after recently signing a lifetime contract. “I joined with Congregation Or Ami because of its commitment to Torah study, to God-talk, to social justice, and to being a community in which members take note of and care for each other,” says the rabbi. The synagogue is dedicated to opening doors to Jewish life through “audacious hospitality,” welcoming all, from interfaith to multiracial couples to those in recovery to the LGBTQ community. They strive to break down walls of silence surrounding once-taboo issues. The congregation also incorporates the 13 Jewish values, such as tzedakah, or righteous giving, and schepping nachas, sharing the joy. They’ve already earned 14 national awards for social justice, creative worship, family learning, and more. Congregation Or Ami is located at 26115 Mureau Rd., #B, in Calabasas. Rabbi Kipnes for merly served as rabbi and director of education at Temple Beth Hillel in North Hollywood and directed Camp Hess Kramer and Gindling Hilltop Camp in Malibu. He and his wife, Michelle November, director of admissions at de Toledo High School in West Hills, offer personal anecdotes about raising children in their new book, Jewish Spiritual Parenting: Wisdom, Activities, Rituals and Prayers for Raising Children with Spiritual Balance and Emotional Wholeness (Jewish Lights Publishing). The couple notes in their introduction, “We discovered that being parents is a spiritual jour ney that begins in an act of love and continues through intentional actions.” They strive to incorporate traditional Jewish values into daily life. In a culture that puts more emphasis on Facetime than actual face-to-face encounters, it’s a never-ending challenge to find balance. Kids are virtually connected to their friends and the world, but often not as eager to bond with their families and communities. This book aims to help parents ignite their children’s passion for spiritual wisdom and meaningful connection. n

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T a i n r o f i l a C i r a r r Fe

By Dustin Troyan Photography by Ferrari

here is nothing like a Ferrari. For those of you who own one or have driven one, you know what I am talking about. If you ask me, I will say that Ferrari embodies a tradition of passion. When you get behind the wheel and start the Ferrari up, it is like your first kiss, wonderful (or so I hope). A Ferrari as a daily driver? Many people do indeed drive their Ferraris daily. If I owned one, I would absolutely drive it daily. I simply couldn’t help myself. When Ferrari Los Angeles called and invited me to drive the California T, naturally I jumped at the opportunity. I have driven the previous-generation California with the V8 engine and found it to be a very pleasing experience. The balance between performance, luxury, and drivabilty are perfect. Yes, the Ferrari California is a car that you can drive every day. And if you really like to drive the car, the performance is all there. The California T has a 3.9-liter, twin-turbo V8, just like the 488 GTB, which will get you from standing to 62 mph in 3.6 seconds. With 553 hp and 557 lb-ft of torque, the California T offers supercar speed and handling while being wrapped in a luxury automobile. The idea of driving an exotic car daily has been a dream for most car enthusiasts. With the progression of technology and design, Ferrari has indeed produced the best “daily driver” exotic to date. Yes, you can drive it every day. Yes, it is exotic. Yes, it makes you feel like a rock star, and yes, it is indeed a Ferrari. I would suggest a test drive; you will love it! Thank you, Ferrari Los Angeles, for the wonderful experience. n

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CALABASAS TURNS 25 The Calabasas 25th Anniversary Celebrations kicked off on Friday, June 24 at the Calabasas Library. While guests enjoyed an evening of music, wine, coffee, and desserts, they were able to explore the brand new and exciting Calabasas History Exhibit, “A Room with a City View.” Attendees were encouraged to meet and visit with authors of historical books of Calabasas and the surrounding areas. Authors signed books which were available for purchase at the anniversary reception. A contest was held for the new commemorative 25th anniversary library cards with two categories, adults and kids. Artwork was sent in and two winners were chosen, one winner for each category. For the adult category, the winner was Simon Halpern with a beautiful rendition of the Library within an outline of the city’s logo. For the kids category, the winner was Harigovind Ajikumar with a drawing of our hawk flying high over the Calabasas Library.

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Q Sushi The Ultimate Dining

Experience! By Deborah Ryback Photography by Marvin Steindler

ublime. Unique. Perfection. Just a few words I would use to describe the experience of dining at the new Q Sushi in Westlake Village. Just when you think you’ve “tried it all,” your taste buds happily take in a new flavor experience.

snow crab with house spicy aioli — crafted at the sushi bar. Owner Binh Hoang prides himself on offering only the freshest of ingredients. Fish selections are flown in from Japan. Local produce is served. Marinades are made from scratch, and ginger is even pickled in-house.

Start with handcrafted, farm-to-bar cocktails and drinks, such as their Beri Mule (featuring fresh, muddled raspberries and organic pomegranate), Dragon’s Breath Cosmo, or Shoga Margarita.

The chefs at Q Sushi artfully create each dish to be visually stunning and palette pleasing. They take great pride in offering the finest of seafood, meat, and poultry, all without antibiotics, hormones, or added color. Sauces are non-GMO and MSG-free. Their passion for people, the environment, and sustainability is quite clear.

I have been hooked on the sashimi pizza as an appetizer and even as a quick meal.Topped with colorful, edible flowers and miso-beet cream sauce, featuring kanpachi (amberjack), you also have the option of adding wasabi oil for an extra kick. It is so delicate and lovely to look at that it takes me a moment to get over the presentation so that I can eat it! My other favorite, The Globe Roll, crafted with shrimp tempura, spicy tuna, avocado, and spicy aioli, will make anyone smile. Sushi aficionados will appreciate watching hand rolls — like the organic avocado with pomegranate and the baked

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Cooked entrées, like the black miso cod, which is marinated three days; the torched Japanese wagyu beef in a garlic ponzu; and the grilled chicken with wasabi mashed potatoes are available to please everyone at your dining table. All dishes are abundant yet light. Wild and organic is served whenever available.

The Kieu Hoang Winery in Napa Valley supplies most of the California selections. The sauvignon blanc and rosĂŠ are the top choices of patrons, pairing nicely with nigiri, sashimi, and cooked fish. A pinot noir will be offered later this year. If you are a wine lover, be sure to take home a bottle to share at your next dinner party or join the Kieu Hoang Winery wine club and receive Napa Valley selections directly to your door. Do you still have room for dessert? Be sure to try the black sesame pudding or green tea roll cake with sweet soybean custard along with fresh seasonal fruit. By the time you read this, a full lunch will be on the menu. It will be streamlined to make dining for business professionals a breeze. Private lounges are located upstairs for meetings or private parties. Conveniently located at The Shoppes off of Russell Ranch Road, with great hours and happy hour daily, this is a dining experience to experience often. n

The Shoppes at Westlake Village 30770 Russel Ranch Rd., #A Westlake Village 818.540.3231 qsushi.com

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How to Better Manage Your Time How often do you feel overwhelmed and pulled in too many directions? Running your business or even your personal life without proper time management can cause stress and negatively impact your productivity. Here are few tips on how to master your time management skills at work: 1. Maintain an organized workspace. Experts agree that organizing your workspace is the first step in increasing work productivity. Clear your space, eliminate all unnecessary files, and create an organized filing system that works for you. 2. Avoid distractions and interruptions. How often do you interrupt your current task to check your email and reply to a customer? Set aside time twice a day to check your email instead of doing so every few minutes. With motivation and discipline, you can focus and devote undivided attention to the task on hand and therefore increase productivity. 3. Set goals and priorities. Utilizing a project and task-management system, such as Asana, is very helpful in keeping you on track with your goals and priorities. You can create a list of detailed tasks by project and set a due date for each task. Sorting all tasks by due dates allows you to focus on the higher priorities first. It also improves communication with your team and allows you to efficiently delegate tasks. Reviewing your list at the end of each business day will help you start your next day fully prepared.

THE MALIBU ARTS FESTIVAL CELEBRATES 45 YEARS On July 30 and 31, the Malibu Arts Festival celebrated its 45th year. Produced by the Malibu Chamber of Commerce, the two-day weekend event is considered “one of the most beautiful outdoor art festivals in the nation.” Featuring over 200 award-winning painters, sculptors, photographers, jewelers, and other unique artisans. The Festival is divided into villages of art, some of which included fine art including paintings, sculptures, photography, and alternative artwork, fashion and jewelry featuring local upcoming designers, arts in education spotlighting local art schools and programs, musical and theatrical arts highlighting bands, DJ’s, and theater groups, crafts corner featuring hand-crafted items, and kids village focusing on fun for all ages. The weekend’s festivities also featured an entertainment stage where original musicians performed both days, a children’s workshop where kids worked with artists to create their own art, and a food truck terrace featuring exciting menu items with incredible cuisine.

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At the Calabasas Chamber of Commerce, we strive to help business owners succeed and provide, among many services, educational seminars to assist in improving workplace efficiency. For more information, please contact us at 818.222.5680.

Rana Ghadban President & CEO 23564 Calabasas Rd., #101 Calabasas 818.222.5680 calabasaschamber.com

WOMEN’S EXPO AT AHCCC SANE Productions proudly presented the Summer 2016 Women’s Expo at AHCCC. Sane Productions and SANE Boutique, a clothing and accessory store, are owned by Auna Simon, located in Calabasas. The event’s intention was to bring women together to network, explore, learn, relax, eat, and shop. Vendors such as Cupcakes and Wishes, Bird & Vine, Herbalife, Pezzel, and Origami Owl were also in attendance to make sure everyone enjoyed the day. The event was a success as the day was filled with happy women and children. Auna hopes to create many more events that bring the community together. The event also brought over 80 people in to get swabbed for a young family who is need of a bone marrow transplant. It was a beautiful way to end the day knowing people come together to help someone in need.

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Rodeo Drive Concours

By Dustin Troyan Huth Photographed by Greg Grudt & Tommy

everly Hills is the perfect location for a concours. And it’s on Rodeo Drive! Now, that is truly amazing. The Father’s Day Rodeo Drive Concours d’ Elegance is an annual tradition and is one of the favorite car events in California. It is a truly special event, indeed loved by thousands. Shutting down Rodeo Drive is no small feat, but it magically happens every year on Father’s Day. Car enthusiasts from all over the world -- yes, all over the world -- plan trips around this event. To say the best of the best will be on display is an understatement. Featured this year were Ferrari supercars, including the 288 GTO, F40, F50, Enzo, and La Ferrari. This display of cars -- worth multiple millions of dollars -- could be the featured showcase at just about any concours in the world. And they were right there, sitting on Rodeo for the masses to view. Just about every other exotic car ever made just happened to magically appear at this event as well. Walking around Rodeo and the adjacent streets, you may see other rare Ferraris, McLarens, Bugattis, and Lamborghinis driving around for everyone to enjoy. As usual, for the Rodeo Concours, it was spectacular. The show never disappoints; it only gets better! Mark your calendar for next year’s event. Father’s Day, take Dad in. n

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CALABASAS SENIOR CENTER OPENING On Saturday, June 25, an official ribbon-cutting ceremony took place to mark the grand opening of the Calabasas Senior Center. The 9,500 square feet Gold LEED building helps establish a local place for seniors to partake in classes, activities, and networking opportunities all under one roof. The grand opening offered light refreshments and tours of the facilities. During this time, attendees were also encouraged to walk next door to the Calabasas Library and sign up for their Summer Reading Program or their interactive Hip Hop dance program for all ages. After the ribbon cutting ceremony, former mayors and city historians led free tours of the city and its historical landmarks on the Calabasas Jolly Trolley. Membership is now open to all Calabasas residents 50+. Hours include Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and Sundays are closed.

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Ask the

Pharmacist

Q A

I have prescription insurance, but I still pay so much for my medications. Why is this and why does the price seem to change every time I get a refill?

Prescription insurance has become increasingly complex. It used to be that you had two copays: one for brand and another for generic. Now, the plans may have up to five tiers! The lowest is preferred generics, and then comes the non-preferred generics, preferred brands, non-preferred brands, and finally, the most expensive, “specialty” drugs. Often times, the higher-tiered copays are percentage based. Therefore, whenever the manufacturer raises the cost of the medication, your copay increases. Many plans also charge you the difference between the generic and the brand name if you choose the brand-name drug when a generic is available. Adding to the complexity, many medications require a prior authorization from your insurance company before they are covered. This means your doctor needs to contact your insurance to explain why the medication is necessary compared to other medications preferred by your insurance company. Additionally, many insurance plans no longer cover refills at retail pharmacies. They require patients to use mail-order facilities unless they opt out. They may also charge a higher copay for using a retail pharmacy. Finally, many plans charge patients higher deductibles. Prescription deductibles are often separate from medical deductibles. Some deductibles may start over mid-year, further increasing patients’ out-of-pocket expenses. Medicare prescription plans are even more confusing. Copays can vary by pharmacy as well. You may have a lower copay at a “preferred” pharmacy. “Preferred” doesn’t mean better; it simply means the pharmacy is being reimbursed a lower rate by the plan. Medicare copays can also vary as the year progresses. You start out with a deductible, then, once that is met, you get a flat price. Then, when you reach the “donut-hole,” you pay a lot again, and when you come out of the “donut-hole,” you pay less than you did before. Confused? This is just a brief summary of the complexities of prescription insurance. I hope I haven’t confused you even more. Brenda Johnson, R.Ph. Calabasas Pharmacy Owner Inside Gelson’s Market 22277 Mulholland Hwy. Calabasas M – F: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. P: 818.223.8656 F: 818.223.8750 calabasaspharmacy.com

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LOVING HOME HOSPICE FOR CHILDREN: RAISE THE ROOF On July 31, Loving Home Hospice for Children hosted their annual jazz event at the Four Seasons in Westlake Village. Loving Home Hospice for Children is a nonprofit organization providing services to families who reside in Los Angeles and Ventura counties since 2008. They provide Hospice and Palliative care through loving support to their residents under the age of 21 and their families to focus on the joys of their life experiences and the continuity of family life to come. Attendees enjoyed performances by Tom Scott, three time Grammy Winner, Mike Garson, known for work with David Bowie, Earl R. Johnson, aolo pianist for many artists including Chaka Khan, Samantha Shapiro, and Nio Renee.

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KELLER WILLIAMS CELEBRATES

Luxury Division EXPANSION

Keller Williams Realty in Calabasas hosted an open house event to celebrate the expansion of their Luxury Division of their Calabasas office. Harma Hartouni, Operating Principal, and Meny Atias, CEO and Team Leader, recently expanded its Luxury Division to over 10,000 square feet, whose growth is attributed to their uncompromising expertise and their stringent quality standard of service. New agents have partnered with the Luxury Division of KW Calabasas Estates because of their desire to become a part of their unmistakably characterizing and pioneering brand. In addition, these agents share in the companyâ€™s vision to build relationships through unparalleled trust and distinct excellence and constantly giving back to the Calabasas community.

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CALABASAS HIGH SCHOOL PRESENTS

Urinetown

This past July, Calabasas High School Summer Theater program presented Urinetown, the Musical to packed houses and the audiences loved it! Director, Bill Garrett, had great vision for bringing the show to life with amazing per formances by all students involved, stunning sets designed by John Ballowe, breathtaking lighting, a student-led master ful technical crew, and a fantastic student pit band. Urinetown is set in a Gotham-like city where a terrible water shortage, caused by a 20-year drought, led to a government-enforced ban on private toilets. Amid the people, a hero decides heâ€™s had enough and plans a revolution to lead them all to freedom! Winner of three Tony Awards, Urinetown is a hilarious musical satire of the legal system, capitalism, social irresponsibility, bureaucracy, corporate mismanagement, and musical theatre itself! Calabasas High Schoolâ€™s theater program brought another incredible production to the stage. They are an asset to our community.

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RECENT SALES* Address

Neighborhood

Sq. ft.

List Price

Sales Price

3859 Eddingham 24764 Via Del Llano 24761 Via Del Llano 24623 Via Tecolote 24725 Calle Conejo 24544 Via Esquina 24702 Via Pradera 23167 Park Pinta 24638 Palermo 3622 Deauvilla 3644 Avenida Callada 3315 Via Verde 3632 El Encanto 4123 Prado De Las Cabras 4151 Prado De Los Zorros 25302 Prado De Los Arboles 3825 Prado De Las Uvas 25471 Prado De Amor 5410 Villawood 25626 Queenscliff 25436 Cumberland 5436 Wellesley 5497 Amber 5716 Jed Smith 25067 Lewis and Clark 5525 Paradise Valley 25120 Jim Bridger 5800 Jed Smith 24200 Hidden Ridge

Mulwood Heights Calabasas Hills Calabasas Hills Calabasas Hills Calabasas Hills Calabasas Hills Calabasas Hills Bellagio Vista Pointe Calabasas Park Estates Calabasas Park Estates Calabasas Park Estates El Encanto The Oaks The Oaks The Oaks The Oaks The Oaks Mountain View Mountain View Mountain View Mountain View Mountain View Hidden Hills Hidden Hills Hidden Hills Hidden Hills Hidden Hills Hidden Hills

3,386 1,834 1,931 1,943 2,484 2,729 2,875 3,788 3,513 3,582 3,129 5,025 2,530 4,492 4,602 4,445 6,401 5,409 4,960 7,078 6,610 5,700 6,610 2,231 4,081 4,834 15,973 13,460 15,000

$1,250,000 $924,000 $995,000 $1,199,000 $1,149,000 $1,275,000 $1,399,000 $1,550,000 $1,289,000 $1,399,000 $1,699,000 $2,395,000 $849,000 $2,169,000 $2,284,000 $2,299,000 $3,075,000 $3,799,000 $2,299,999 $2,699,000 $2,750,000 $2,800,000 $3,200,000 $2,299,950 $2,299,999 $3,495,000 $7,650,000 $12,495,000 $14,995,000

$1,255,000 $915,000 $975,000 $1,060,000 $1,130,000 $1,235,000 $1,399,000 $1,600,000 $1,289,000 $1,360,000 $1,730,000 $2,385,000 $872,200 $2,100,000 $2,200,000 $2,270,000 $2,851,119 $3,749,000 $2,270,000 $2,650,000 $2,725,000 $2,795,000 $2,900,000 $2,200,000 $2,275,000 $3,400,000 $7,400,000 $12,100,000 $14,595,000

*Sales represent closed transactions between 6/1/2016-7/31/2016 (Standard Sales only)

Information basen on information from the CRIS-Net Regional FT MLS as of 12/1/15. Display of MLS data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS. The Broker/Agent providing the information contained herein may or may not have been Listing and/or Selling Agent. CALBRE#01491245 ÂŠ2015 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HoneServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServeces of America, Inc.ÂŽ Equal Housing Opportunity. Calabasas Style 183

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“WHEN YOU ABSOLUTELY DEMAND THE FINEST REAL ESTATE HAS TO OFFER.”

RARE, MOSTLY ONE-STORY, ARCHITECTURAL ESTATE 7BR + 7.5BA with close to 8,000 SF of eleganance including art studio/bonus room, office, and movie theater.Gourmet kitchen with center island,wine fridge, and top-ofthe-line appliances including a massive in-wall refrigerator & freezer. Grand living room with wood beamed cathedral ceiling & marble fireplace. Master suite features fireplace,walk-in closets,and spa quality bathroom.Home features hand hewn walnut floors, library, and guest suite.Yard has grassy play areas, outdoor kitchen, pool/ spa, & multiple seating areasto take in the views.

LISA

HIDDEN HILLS OFFERED AT $4,699,000

GUTMAN 818.535.0862 HIDDENHILLS.COM KELLER WILLIAMS CALABASAS Director of Luxury Estates CalBRE#00966153

Thank you for entrusting me with your real estate needs for the last 29 years.

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HIDDEN HILLS ENTERTAINERS ESTATE ON 2+ MAGICAL ACRES!

Truly a one-of-a-kind estate. A gorgeous barn, along with a wonderful guesthouse, tennis courts, and mini golf course, are all along the private driveway leading up to the main home. Featuring wood beamed ceilings, chefs kitchen, gaming arcade and home theater seating twelve. The grand master suite includes a spa style bathroom along with an office/seating area. With a resort-style backyard, this incredible home is perfect for the entertainer. Property is over 2 acres.

HIDDEN HILLS OFFERED AT $7,499,000

SHOWCASE HOME IN MEDEA VALLEY ESTATES!

SPECTACULAR HOME DECORATOR SHARP!

6BR + 7.5BA remodeled w/quality. Foyer w/soaring ceilings & wall of glass. New hardwood & pavers. Living rm w/wine cellar, office w/built-ins & downstairs guest retreat. Gourmet kitchen w/new Viking appliances, 6-burner stove, warming drawers & walk-in pantry. Master retreat w/fireplace, balcony & spa style bath w/heated floors & steam shower. Resort style backyard w/pool & spa, BBQ pavillion & entertaining areas. Horse property w/feed & tack room & more. A must see!

5BR + 4.5BA With 2-story entry! Enormous living rm w/wood floors, vaulted ceilings, built-in shelves & fireplace! Remodeled kitchen w/custom cabinets, granite,stainless appliances & SubZero refrigerator! Family rm w/floor-to-ceiling fireplace! Formal dining w/wine storage! Butler’s pantry w/sink! Master suite w/fireplace, walk-in closet & remodeled BA w/soaking tub, steam shower,dual vanities w/granite & Spanish tiles! Pebble tec pool,spa,built-in BBQ & fire pit! Existing newer barn/garage.

AGOURA HILLS OFFERED AT $2,899,000

HIDDEN HILLS

OFFERED AT $2,349,000

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Wine & Dine DELICATESSEN

INTERNATIONAL

BRENT’S DELI 2799 Townsgate Rd., Westlake Village 805.557.1882 | brentsdeli.com for additional location

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

Free appetizers from 4-6:30pm Mon-Fri, $5 well drinks and appetizers from 3-6:30 pm on weekends. We didn’t invent Happy Hour, we just made it better!

Discover world class dining in the heart of Calabasas, serving Italian, American, and International cuisine. This cozy restaurant and lively bar is perfect for hosting celebrations!

STEAKHOUSE

EUROPEAN BISTRO

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

MEDITERRANEO 32037 Agoura Rd., Westlake Village 818.889.9105 | med-rest.com

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

Mediterraneo is a top Zagat-rated restaurant and bar serving fresh, European-style cuisine with unparalleled quality and value. Located on the grounds of the beautiful Westlake Village Inn.

ASIAN FUSION

CHARCUTERIE MEAT-UP

P.F. CHANG’S 2250 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks | 805.277.5915 21821 Oxnard St., Woodland Hills | 818.340.0491 | pfchangs.com

THE STONEHAUS 32039 Agoura Rd., Westlake Village 818.483.1152 | the-stonehaus.com

P.F. Chang’s features a blend of high-quality, Asian-inspired cuisine and American hospitality in a sophisticated, contemporary bistro setting.

This venue is the area’s most popular “meeting place” where guests can relax over coffee or wine– New menu with healthy breakfast, lunch and dinner items. On the grounds of the Westlake Village Inn.

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Wine & Dine AMERICANA

RAW BAR

ZIN AMERICAN BISTRO 32131 Lindero Cyn. Rd., Westlake Village 818.865.0095 | zinwestlake.com

THE GALLERY 30768 Russell Ranch Rd., Westlake Village 818.889.1338 | thegallerywestlake.com

Nostalgic cuisine with a synergy of cultural flavors. Beautiful lakeside setting. Sunday brunch is popular with locals. Thursday through Sunday evening for live jazz and dinner on the lake!

This sleek, upscale eatery is a favorite for its fresh seafood, chops, raw bar, and innovative cocktails. Casual yet elegant, their attention to detail is flawless.

STEAKHOUSE

SUSHI & WINE LOUNGE

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

Q SUSHI & KIEU HOANG WINE LOUNGE 30770 Russell Ranch Rd., #A., Westlake Village 818.540.3231 | Qsushi.com.

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

The finest Japanese ingredients come together creating unique combinations, like Sashimi Pizza! Experience farm-to-bar cocktails with an easy Asian flair. Happy hour daily 4:30-6pm.

VEGETARIAN

STEAKHOUSE

VEGGIE GRILL 3825 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., Westlake Village | 805.379.9304 6316 Topanga Cyn. Blvd., #1180, Woodland Hills | 818.340.6360 veggiegrill.com

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR 6373 Topanga Cyn. Blvd., Woodland Hills 818.346.1005 | flemingssteakhouse.com

Vegetables are the rock star at Veggie Grill, shining brightly at the center of every plate they make for you.

Pairing a passion for service and seasonal ingredients with the finest USDA Prime beef and a perfectly curated wine list. At Fleming’s, every visit is filled with indulgent possibilities. Calabasas Style 191

Is an Investment Advisor Really Worth an Investment Advisory Fee? By Mark Wendell

ise people understand the popular axiom: Price is only an objection in the absence of value. This idea applies especially well to the investment advisory world. As an investor, what are you willing to pay for genuine, educated, unbiased, fiduciary-fee-only investment advice? What is surprising is that there are still investors who would rather go it alone by trying to use the do-it-yourself approach or by using a computer-automated “robo” approach, thinking they can do better on their own or that investment advice is not worth the price, or both. With the average fee charged by investment advisors being between one and two percent annually, some investors are asking themselves whether the advice they receive actually results in an advantage in their investment performance. In other words, could they do better on their investment returns if they didn’t have to pay an investment advisory fee? On the surface that may seem like a fair question, at least until you examine what value the right fiduciary-fee-only investment advisor actually brings to the relationship. The real question is whether or not you feel that the advice you receive will add at least the fee paid in value to your portfolio. While any time is a good time to evaluate the worth of an investment advisor’s advice, it is especially important to do so during difficult economic times. Here’s why: *A good investment advisor will have positioned your portfolio with proper diver-

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sification to withstand increased volatility and reduce the downside exposure. A well-thought-out, well-diversified, strategically allocated portfolio will usually decline less than the stock market indexes and less than a comparable portfolio index, and this fact will contribute positively to your long-term returns. *A good investment advisor will keep you focused on your long-term objectives rather than on short-term market shifts that will have little or no impact on the long-term performance of your portfolio. Many investors who fled the market in 2008 still haven’t recovered, while those who stayed on the roller coaster market certainly have gained substantially. *A good investment advisor will help you avoid the many common mistakes investors make, like trying to time the market, chasing performance, trying to pick the winners, and moving a portfolio from aggressive to conservative and back again. These mistakes can cost investors a significant portion of their portfolio value. *A good investment advisor will always have your best interests and long-term objectives in mind by working as a fiduciary-fee-only advisor, which will free you of the time, energy, and worry spent trying to manage your portfolio on your own, and that could be priceless. *A good investment advisor will take into consideration your entire household situation, including how your investing goals

and your portfolio strategy may impact your tax matters and your estate plan. Does your investment advisor occasionally offer to review your estate plan and offer suggestions for the purpose of educating the trustees and/or family to prepare for a smooth transition? Does your investment advisor offer to talk with your CPA and Estate Attorney to discuss your estate plan and offer assistance in preparing your estate for an efficient administration by the successor trustee/executor when the time comes? A truly honest appraisal of the value of investment advice would have to consider how much time and money you stand to lose when the going gets tough, not while everyone is riding the wave of a market rally or an economic boom. If investment advisors can help you in any one of the five ways described above, they can be worth their weight in gold. A really good advisor will typically help you in all five ways all the time. What’s that worth to you? Can you really put a price on the value the advisor brings to your long-term results? Should you really object to the price if you consider the value the advisor is able to bring to your table? n Copyright © Mark Wendell 2016. All Rights Reserved. MD Wendell Wealth Partners: A preeminent personal wealth enhancement boutique for select clients Email: mark@mdwendell.com Website: mdwendell.com. 805.402.8642.

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