Hidden Hills Magazine • Fall 2018

Hills

A RIDE INTO FALL

to across the street.

– Christian Völkers

Engel & Völkers is a leader in the sale of residential and commercial real estate, resorts, yachts, and private jets in the premium segment. Founded in 1977 as a boutique shop delivering high-end services to an exclusive clientele, today we are a luxury brand recognized around the world for our culture of exclusivity, competence and passion. With the addition of our shop off of Mulholland, we are better able to offer our world-class service to Calabasas residents. If you could benefit from our services, or would like to learn more about joining our elite brand as an Engel & Völkers Real Estate Advisor, we’d love to hear from you.

From across the globe, to across the street, we will guide you home.

From across the globe, 22267 Mulholland Highway, Calabasas calabasas.evusa.com | 818.889.1602 | calDRE 01910946

“Quality product offerings, premium service and innovative thinking, never seem to go out of style.”

from the

PUBLISHERS

s summer draws to a close and we lament the loss of more carefree days, autumn always seems to swoop in with an air of nostalgia making us look forward to the coming season with excitement and anticipation. Bits of Halloween begin to turn up, then thoughts of the holidays just over the horizon. Mistier mornings, cooler days (eventually, we can only hope!) and longer nights somehow help us to quietly reflect upon all that we have to appreciate.

In this issue we capture some of the sights and experiences of this season and we hope that you will embrace or try to experience all of it! If you enjoy this magazine, we hope you will remember that it would not be possible without the generous support of our community advertisers who recognize that we live in a very special place, with very special people—all worth reading about.

All the best,

Lonna Weber & Joe Bellissimo

Lonna@LongValleyMedia.com

Joe@LongValleyMedia.com

CO- PUBLISHERS

Lonna Weber

Joe Bellissimo

AEditor-in-Chief

Joe Bellissimo

Copy Editors

Linda Raznick

Carly Fentress

Advisory Board

Archie E. Hanson Jr.

Linda Raznick

Lisa Sapiro

Steve Weber

General Legal Counsel

David S. Schnider

Inquiries

Advertising: Lonna@Longvalleymedia.com Editorial: editorial@Longvalleymedia.com

Hidden Hills Magazine is published four times a year by Long Valley Media. LLC. It is mailed to residents of the city of Hidden Hills, California as well as distributed at commercial and retail locations in the greater Los Angeles and Ventura County areas.

Long Valley Media, LLC 5115 Douglas Fir Rd. Suite C Calabasas, CA 91302

All Rights reserved. No article illustrations photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without permission of the copy write owner (s). Long Valley Media, LLC does not take responsibility for the claims provided herein. Printed in the U.S.A.

Dr. Kapil Moza is a board certified, fellowship-trained neurosurgeon who has specialized in minimally invasive and complex spine surgery, as well as cerebrovascular/skull base surgery, for more than a decade. He is known for his record of positive clinical outcomes with zero infections and historically low complication rates. He is the first choice for many referring physicians and has frequently won patients’ choice awards for his medical expertise and bedside manner. Dr. Moza recently launched the Centurion Surgical Center, an outpatient surgical center that is fully accredited by the Joint Commission and specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery and interventional pain management. Equipped with stateof-the-art technology and staffed by board certified surgeons and physicians. Centurion boasts the largest operating room in any ambulatory surgical center in California. It will serve as a center of excellence for patients seeking minimally invasive spine surgery and artificial disc replacement, as well as interventional pain management services, including radiofrequency ablation, epidural injections and spinal cord stimulator implantation.

PUBLIC OR PRIVATE?

The perspective of families who have experienced either public or private schools (or both), shed light on the debate about which is the best path.

Robbie Schaefer, owner of Pedalers Fork and Ten Speed Coffee takes us on a ride through The Ranch.

A shop-keeping mom and daughter team curate a collection of exceptional local artists.

One of California's premier spots to pedal, gallop and hike is right next door.

THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAILS

Hidden Hills Resident Jennifer Zuiker's company, Gory Girl, scares up parties and props and perhaps the occasional nightmare.

ARTISTS' COLLECTIVE INTO THE GREAT WIDE OPEN A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN

The National Charity League empowers girls to make a difference in their community.

HARVESTING NEW MEMORIES AT THIS YEAR'S FALL FESTIVALS

The run-down on dozens of local places and events to take the family this fall.

THE THRIVING PALEOISTA

Delicious recipes with a decidedly paleo point-of-view.

COCKTAILS FROM THE LOCAL PEASANT

A local go-to for chef-driven comfort food and hand-crafted cocktails shares a few of its favorite spiritual offerings.

SPANKY’S PET PICS - KATE, THE FLEDGLING HAWK

Meet the baby hawk that needed just a little TLC as it was learning to fly.

CONTRIBUTORS

DEBBIE YANUCK

Debbie Yanuck began telling family tales about her siblings, at a young age, claiming they were nonfiction, but learned to label them fiction, and thus began her writing career. Since then, she has written 11 nonfiction children’s books (i.e. “The White House, “The Bald Eagle.”) Visit her blog at www.debyanuck.wordpress.com.

ELYSE GLICKMAN

Elyse Glickman’s work as a journalist and editor spans the globe and topics including gastronomy, wine and spirits, wellness, business profiles, interior design and fashion. She served as a Senior Editor for business/executive lifestyle magazine C-Suite Quarterly (CSQ) magazine, covering food and travel.

BRIELLE FRASER

Southern California native, Brielle Fraser is a student at Pepperdine University, working towards a degree in journalism. She is a dance instructor as well as a freelance journalist whose goal is to work in the field of print journalism.

NICOLA BUCK

Nicola is a British fine art and commercial photographer, with a distinct and unique storytelling style. Evoking more than just a visual experience, her images have a keen eye for detail. Her work has been published by the Los Angeles Times, Huffington Post as well as other publications and she has worked on marketing content for major corporate clients. Fine art trained, Nicola has also exhibited in group shows in Los Angeles, San Francisco and London. She works closely with the local charity Heal the Bay photographing events and educational content.

LINDSEY BEST

Lindsey is an artist / photographer currently based in Los Angeles. She graduated with a BFA in Photography + Imaging from Art Center College of Design. Lindsey's photographs examine the human condition and the connection to the world in which we call home. She is fascinated by human connection, language, communication, and the fragmentation that inherently exists within the limits of what it means to be human.

JAKE WARNER

Jake Warner is a Photographer and Entrepreneur from Calabasas, CA. His background in design and content creation have allowed him to spread his talents across multiple industries and he is now dedicating the majority of his time innovating the Digital Publishing market. Although working full time on his company, you can still find Jake on the beach in Malibu with his camera and surfboard in hand. If you would like to see more of his work or get in touch with him you can visit his Instagram @JakeTheWarner.

MAUREEN FORMAN

Maureen Forman's published works reflect an international upbringing and an open mind. Her genres include celebrity and luxury lifestyle profiles as well as travel, art & design, equestrian sport and the wine industry.

PRIVATE PUBLIC? -OR-

WHEN CHOOSING A SCHOOL WE ALL WANT THE BEST FOR OUR CHILDREN.

BUT IS "BEST" SOMETIMES A RELATIVE TERM?

WRITTEN BY DEBBIE YANUCK

Weekly, daily, hourly, parents juggle a minefield of decisions as they raise their children: the choices are many and the consequences often unpredictable, while the heart of it is always the same--wanting the best for their children. When it comes to education, many factors come into play in choosing public vs. private schools: financial, location/ accessibility, social pressure, and the quality of public schools in the family’s home area. Do private schools offer a better education and thus, better eventual access to private or Ivy League schools? Do public schools create more well-rounded, less close-minded students? According to my small sampling of families, some

research, and the Superintendent of Las Virgenes School District, “yes” and “no” answers those questions equally. *Mrs. Smith’s (name changed for privacy) father wanted her to be an engineer. She, however, wanted to go into fashion design. Her father could not understand her career choice and her lack of desire to go to college. She reminded him, “Dad, everyone wears clothes,” and went on to have a successful career in fashion design and then management, all without a college education. And yet, the Smith family children all went through private school. By personal choice, only one will attend college (USC) this Fall, but each feels that private school education taught them well and none wish they had gone to public school. Mrs. Smith explains that as parents, she and her husband

want to offer their children every opportunity, which is why they put their children in private school, whether they chose to continue on to college or not, because they feel that private schools offer greater personal attention, a stronger breadth of education, smaller class sizes, flexibility and more helping hands. In the Atlantic Magazine, author Michael Godsey writes, “Why I’m a Public-School Teacher but a Private-School Parent. (It’s not selling out; it’s buying in.)” He explains that through his, over 20 years of public school teaching, he has observed that in some private schools, the level of student engagement, the level of “buyingin,” makes all the difference in how and what they are taught. Godsey observed a classroom at a private school. There, the school promotes “personal character” and “love of learning.”

The campus has no bell system because the students arrive promptly, ready to

learn. They listen to the teacher, ask and thoughtfully answer questions, and do not get ready to leave the class until the teacher dismisses them. Godsey observes that the campus does not have sports teams, the arts, or fancy classrooms, but the students and teachers appear fully involved in learning Godsey observed another classroom in a public school. While the teacher was equally as knowledgeable and passionate about the subject being taught as was the private school teacher, the students (who were in no way purposefully rude) were “cool” to the process of education. They were “disengaged” and distracted by cell phones, side-conversations, eating and fidgeting. He believes that even more rules would not stop this “disengagement.” Godsey believes that it isn’t the level of the private school students’ intelligence that makes them more invested in the learning process; rather, it is that at some private schools “The biggest visible difference is that...personal engagement is ‘cool.’”

The mother, Mrs. Smith, of the private school educated children, tells me the story

DR. DAN STEPENOSKY SUPERINTENDENT of LVUSD

of a class valedictorian whose speech was titled “Was it all worth it?” The student asks the question - was giving up a social life and extracurricular activities to study, volunteer and assume leadership positions all to reach the goal (and GPA of 4.85) worthy of getting into the student’s dream school - Harvard? The student did not get into Harvard and will attend another Ivy League school in the Fall, but the question remains. Was it worth it to essentially sacrifice four years of personal life? The student ended the speech with this statement, “If your answer is yes, then great, but if your answer is no, then look inside yourself and make the change for the next four years of your life.” Mrs. Smith says, “In the end we want to open the gates for our children to have every option available to them...to be in classrooms where ‘personal engagement’ in the classroom is the norm, and never to push them to give up a well-balanced life.”

Of her four children, *Mrs. Jones (name changed for privacy) relates that three of them followed one path (private school) and one, the youngest, now attends a public high school. (She just completed her Freshman year.) Originally, Mrs.

Jones and her husband wanted the children to attend private school because they believed it would be safer and the children would encounter less exposure to drugs and alcohol. She relates that the family appreciates the strong education private school supplies but they struggle with the “lack of acceptance” they observed for people who do not conform to an expected way of life. The Jones’ oldest children were accepted into great colleges--UCLA and Parsons-and Mrs. Jones says, “The private education paid off in that respect, but the trade-off was too much personally for my children.”

She also did not feel that private school opened the door as much as the fact that her children are self-driven and always willing to work hard to reach their goals. An article in The Washington Post by Valerie Strauss--“Are Private Schools really better than Public Schools? A Look at the Data”-summarizes that “...comparing graduates from [private] schools with those from other schools is that schools are still schools. With a few exceptions, they all, public and private, rest on the same flawed assumptions on how people learn...we have a system badly in need of rethinking and redesign.” She believes that

DO NOT FOCUS ON 'WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO TO GET INTO THE COLLEGE'— FLIP IT AND SAY, 'WHAT UNIVERSITY WILL HELP ME AND PREPARE ME TO BE SUCCESSFUL?'

JENNIFER LOPATA ON PRIVATE SCHOOLS

simply imparting data and facts does not give students life skills in the way to trust their intuition and how to think beyond what they have learned. “The data may show better test scores, and better access to Ivy League colleges, but is the education one that will advance the individual in life? ...Finishing college on time, having higher SAT scores, being active in extracurricular activities

and feeling prepared for college ...are mis-measures of deep learning. The SAT and ACT provide no insight into students’ level of skill (what they can do) or complexity of conceptual understanding (what they really know, as opposed to what they have memorized).” It is not that the students have changed, but the world and the way students are taught needs to be revamped

in both public and private schools. Mrs. Jones acknowledges Strauss’ concept when she realized that what worked for some of her children (private school) did not work for all her children. At the public high school, Mrs. Jones says that her youngest child joined student government, made “down to earth, kind friends,” and while she found herself ahead in her math and French

THE MORE INDIVIDUALIZED APPROACH TO LEARNING AND BETTER RELATIONSHIPS WITH TEACHERS CREATES AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE STUDENTS BECOME MORE INVESTED IN LEARNING.

WE ARE ALL VERY HAPPY WITH THE CHANGE TO PUBLIC SCHOOL AND DO NOT FEEL IT WILL HINDER OUR DAUGHTER’S ABILITY TO GET INTO THE COLLEGE OF HER CHOICE.

class, she still had to work diligently to achieve good grades her Freshman year. Overall, Mrs. Jones says, “We are all very happy with the change to public school and do not feel it will hinder our daughter’s ability to get into a college of her choice.”

Jennifer Lopata, founder and President of Synergy Academics, “...a full-service academic resource center...,” is in the unique situation where she daily sees students from both private and public schools and understands the benefits of each. She says, “Public schools offer a better diversity within the student body and thus better replicate the world where the students will reside.” Also significant is that “public schools are free to all students and usually have a better proximity to people’s homes.” Lopata notes that with a wide range of learning differences among students, public schools tend to provide a variety of programs that suit the individual and his or her needs. “Additionally, public schools provide universal acceptance with no application process for all students in the district,” Lopata says. This minimizes stress in the family system.

While there is much to recommend in the public school system, Lopata sees the benefits of the private school system as well. “There is more funding for facilities, materials, sports programs, the arts and food services in private schools,” she says. Because the private school system operates with greater independence, the education system is able to be more personalized and the faculty is then freer to create “varying curriculum as well as smaller class sizes.” As author Godsey also observed, Lopata opines that the

“... more individualized approach to learning and better relationships with teachers creates an environment where students become more invested in learning.” Lopata continues to oversee her center, which supports students from all school backgrounds with the knowledge that the individual defines where his or her education will take them.

Dr. Dan Stepenosky, Superintendent

of the Las Virgenes School District, speaks with passion about his goals for the public schools he represents. He wants the schools to give families the opportunities to get a top-notch education for their children “... without paying college tuition before the student enters college...” He understands the debt burden students leave college with and does not want to increase that burden with middle and high school tuition. “Las Virgenes schools are in the top 2% of school districts in the state,” he says, “and the schools are innovative, with great staff, families who care about education, and people who want to be part of the team--from parents, to teachers, to the staff...”

Dr. Stepenosky does not lament the size of the high schools, approximately 2,000 students, because he feels that the size offers a place for each student to find his or her own niche. The schools have over 200 clubs--Key Club, Habitat for Humanity, sports, drama, etc.-where each student can find a group that suits his or her individual needs. He says they have also brought in

GODSEY BELIEVES THAT IT ISN’T THE LEVEL OF THE PRIVATE SCHOOL STUDENTS’ INTELLIGENCE THAT MAKES THEM MORE INVESTED IN THE LEARNING PROCESS; RATHER, IT IS THAT AT SOME PRIVATE SCHOOLS “THE BIGGEST VISIBLE DIFFERENCE IS THAT... PERSONAL ENGAGEMENT IS ‘COOL.’”

professors from Pierce and Moorpark Junior Colleges to teach classes to the high school students. Some of the classes are American Sign Language and Ethics and Criminal Justice. This program allows students to become comfortable with a collegelevel class in the high school environment.“Do not focus on what do I have to do to get into the college,” Dr. Stepenosky says. “Flip it and say, what university will help me and prepare me to be successful.” Students and colleges are not one size fits all and he suggests it is important to gauge how/ where each student will fit best. Students are like “fragile thoroughbreds,” trained to peak performance for tests, but not for life; with adversity, challenges and struggles, Dr. Stepenosky wants the schools to teach to life and not simply to tests. They have added “Freshman Seminars,” designed to promote

financial management, stress management, bully prevention and time management, and to assist students navigate through life’s many transitions.

In the Las Virgenes school district, students are lucky enough to have both academically strong public and private educational opportunities. Some students flourish well in the private school environment, while others fare better in public schools. Many students and parents I spoke with felt that both private and public schools equally open doors to top-ofthe-line colleges because it is the individual student who makes it happen. All felt it isn’t the “best”’ college that makes the difference in a career but, rather, what the student wants and makes of his or her college choice and experience. As author Frank Bruni states in his book and title, “Where You Go is Not Who You’ll Be.”

REFERENCES:

Bruni, Frank. Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be. New York: Grand Central Publishing, 2015. Print.

Godsey, Michael. “Why I’m a Public-School Teacher but a Private-School Parent.” The Atlantic. March 4, 2015. Print.

Strauss, Valerie. “Are private schools really better than public schools? A look at the data.” The Washington Post. March 27, 2018. Print.

ABOVE: CALABASAS HIGH SCHOOL'S GRADUATING CLASS OF 2018, WHICH INCLUDED STUDENTS CONTINUING TO USC, UCLA, BERKELY AND THE IVY LEAGUE.

ARTISTS COLLECTIVE

WRITTEN BY MAUREEN FORMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSEY BEST

The mother-daughter design team, Nancy and Shanesa Fath, are as passionate about art and supporting local artists as they are about affordable design. Their commitment to both have made a tremendous impact across the Valley. Their portfolio is varied, from megamansions to modest townhomes, yet each client, regardless of budget, finds total dedication and understanding in their mindful designs. The concept behind their store, Chandeliers & Tulips, was created eight years ago during a crossroads in Nancy’s life. Founding a business, let alone a lifestyle store and design studio, in the midst of the global financial crisis was understandably illadvised. Fortunately Nancy’s compass is rebellious, polarized against the grain. Nancy, who had already earned her contractor's license years prior, fully understood that during this time of uncertainty and confusion there was a much needed market for affordable home services. As a single mother, necessity meant that she often had to bring her daughter to work with her. It was this exposure that likely cultivated Shanesa’s passion for aesthetics. Upon completion of an Art History degree at UCLA, Shanesa joined her mother to become a dynamic and formidable design team in the valley. Their kinesthetic gift of knowing if something is aesthetically balanced, exquisite taste, and innate ability to place the most unsuspecting pieces together to create a sense of harmony has been noted by clients and artists alike. Their store, located in Agoura Hills at the Whizin Market Square, is a unique gallery of art in a living

environment.

Chatting with artists who have been curated by Nancy and Shanesa is like taking in an onslaught of gratitude, respect and commitment. The reciprocity of faith and trust in the symbiotic relationship has elevated both the artists and the designers exponentially. This partnership has ultimately benefited clients throughout the valley. By avoiding traditional art retailers and going directly to artists, Nancy and Shanesa have elevated the under-represented local community of artists, resulting in a mutually beneficial relationship. Artists appreciate having a local business where they can send potential clients to see their work and are proud to support Chandeliers and Tulips as well.

Rarely, if ever, does one find a fine art gallery that offers the opportunity to showcase art in a design setting. Nancy and Shanesa have demonstrated

that you don’t have to buy a revered Dali or other masterpiece in order to collect great art. They have cultivated an eclectic bevy of artists and placed their work in the ultimate viewing situation--a home environment. For the majority of people without museum lighting, and who may be novice collectors, looking at art in this context may give them an honest sense of the feel of a piece of art. It is also less intimidating for a novice buyer to experience art in this fashion. Their luxe line of custom furnishings is as complementary to the artwork as the artists are to the designers themselves. The great thing about Nancy and Shanesa is that they possess a sensitivity to their clients’ needs and tastes, as well as the artistic process. They understand that the artwork needs to stand alone- if the buyer decides to change the decor, the art that they purchased is not an accessory, rather a statement. It is this ability that encourages confidence in

both realms. How they have managed to create a space that showcases things that are fresh, and new- and totally eclectic in a completely cohesive manner is an true enigma. It’s not off the mark to refer to them as shapeshifters, casually living between multiple dimensions of art and design. What is known is that Nancy and Shanese and passionate about supporting the arts, and nurture relationships. They take great care in developing close friendships with both artists and clients. It shows in their shop, and it is evidenced in their considerable philanthropic contributions to charities that support art. Their sincerity and love is appreciated by everyone whom they represent, and their reach and impact throughout the community is indicative of the dedication they exude in life.

RICHARD UPPER

The beauty of Richard Upper is that he is also a historian behind the lens. Not a photojournalist, a historian. His images tell us stories that a journalist may easily misinterpret. His prints speak; a moment, a feeling, it’s a conversation that belies the word photographer. The eerie connection he makes with his subjects comes across without apology, much like the artist himself. He admittedly goes to see his subjects as a fan, not as an artist. That honesty and brevity create a different type of connection. Richard effortlessly and masterfully blends wit and wisdom; he is wicked smart. Remarking that “a piece of Cycladic sculpture from 3000 BC is as relevant today, stylistically as ever, creating memories with a single line” confirms that he could be Indiana Jones’s mischievous, much cooler brother. Within moments it’s obvious that an enlightened conversation is guaranteed. The ability Richard has to evoke with words is kindred to his ability to capture emotion. Richard’s sentences are peppered with deeper meaning; they dance and delight as much as

Mick Jagger (circa 1973) wriggling on stage. For example, he says things like he “can work in silence; however, I find it more silent if I blast music through speakers. The sound drowns out internal noise/ distractions.” He explains that he is constantly amazed at how creative people can be, and in another thought, he shuns a quick fix. He mentions inspiration is in the genes--not necessarily what your parents were, but rather what they wanted to be. One finds it second nature to dwell on the mixed messages and create internal dialogue about the paradox. That is exactly his point. Brilliant. He is curious, both seeking and teaching. He is authentic and admits things most people simply deny. Richard Upper is connected on a deeper level and somehow transfers that connection in his process. While Richard disdains a flowery biography, and would likely scoff at the use of brilliant and poignant as adjectives to describe his work, he unequivocally reminds us to listen, rather than wait to talk, and that gift of listening is strikingly apparent in his artwork.

PHOTOGRAPHER

Proverbs are ancestral truths that condense experiences of a given civilization or culture into a gift of wisdom for the generations to follow. How fitting that Lily Lambert’s favorite proverb is a Native American proverb, "The soul would have no rainbow - had the eyes had no tears." The beauty of the lesson speaks volumes about her as a person. Lily Lambert has an ethereal spirit of unconditional love and understanding. This modern Snow White is so profoundly pure of heart that one might imagine her surrounded by chattering animals and vibrant foliage cushioning her aura. In learning about Lily, one dances an anthropomorphic waltz. She says that is inspired by everything in nature. Her camera is her trusty companion, as recording her world seemingly validates the beauty she finds. Her gift is both capturing the phenomenon of nature that envelops mankind and the sacred power of letting go of things she loves. Lily’s inspiration is the extrinsic beauty motivating the intrinsic evolution within her. This is indisputably evidenced in her brave strokes that are both bold and fragile on her canvas. She understands that creating and sharing are what she was born to do. Pressing further, one discovers her love of one of the arguably most versatile artists, Marc Chagall, and that her bravery extends to loving unconditionally. She is a treasure. When posed with the question if art didn’t exist, and she was to become something else entirely, what would she do, her answer is swift and to the point. She shares matter-of-factly that everything she does is artistic; if she were to choose another occupation-whatever it might be--she would still do it artistically.

LAMBERT

ROBIN BRANHAM

Robin and Colin Branham may be key to unlocking DNA creativity.

Memories of Robin’s father (Colin’s grandfather), renowned artist Robert Branham, are a cellular driving force of inspiration for their work. The most valuable lesson he passed on was that preconception is the death of art, a lesson reiterated in their paintings. Although the lineage was destined, life didn’t come easy for Robin; she has lived enough adversity to claim the heart of a survivor. Her path was that of a young single mother, paying off a mortgage and working as an artist. Some of the personal challenges Robin and Colin have faced together seem insurmountable, and yet they have rallied in life as they do in art. The rocky path taught her to care less about what other people think, as well as the total freedom that comes with relinquishing the need to change the people around her. Obviously, as a mother, there is a nurturing connection that transcends all lessons. The dynamic between the mother and son artist is both typical of a professional relationship as well as mother-son flow. Colin aptly summarizes it when he says that his mother ventures over to his side of the studio to offer what will most likely be unsolicited but needed advice, adding that the only thing that bothers him is that it is hard to get work done while receiving an art lesson. Robin’s perspective is equally precise: “I hear myself almost word for word repeating the things my father taught me. It makes me wish that I could have another day of lessons from my father.” There are times that Colin’s work interests and excites her more than her own does, and she wants to go work on it. She wants to experiment more on his art, and he just wants to work. She knows it drives him crazy. She sums it up like this: “I trained the perfect assistant who no longer wishes to work for me. Even though I know I get on Colin’s nerves, I wonder if he will feel the same when he is my age.” Colin and Robin share a similar sentiment. There are alot of things that break one’s heart, but it’s the awareness of learning from those things that in turns adds a deeper beauty. It’s all part of existing in this world.

Oxymorons are a fact of language. It’s always thought-provoking to hear the expression, “sounds of silence.” When one spends time with Kathi Mangel, and begins to know her personally, one consciously realizes the power behind Kathi’s prints. You can literally see the “sounds of silence.” Kathi’s self-awareness, intelligence and introspection come across strongly in both her artwork and her very essence. Like the documentaries that she enjoys, Kathi’s artwork teaches us about ourselves and the world around us. Her photos tell a story. The line between artist and photojournalist is blurred. Kathi’s passions are simple: family, friends and photography trips. Probing further it’s discovered that simple photography trips include epic adventures, like sleeping in a tent in the middle of the Gobi Desert! What drives her passions are far more complex; like the aforementioned photography trip, there is much more under the surface. The path that led to her becoming an artist was from no one but herself: Her encouragement came from within. She doesn’t subscribe to a shiny, self affirming existence. She recognizes distracting chatter occurs in oneself--to a point of distraction. Nothing quiets the constant dialogue more than being in a place of amazing natural beauty with a camera and tripod. It’s in that stillness that she becomes tuned into, and caught in, her own creation. Kathi’s soul is more about searching than it is about accepting. Her interest in learning and evolving is likely one reason she loves sharing her art with people who are as interested. She advocates for designers to cultivate artists to please themselves, not others--a lesson that transcends through many themes in life. While she listens to music throughout the day, she prefers to process her photographs in silence. This silent methodology reverberates like a concerto when she is working on her art. A bluetooth speaker within. The oxymoron creeps in when she tells us that noise-cancelling headphones are notoriously in her travel bag. She is a paradox, and her artwork, like herself, is a journey. Carpe Diem.

KATHI MANGEL PHOTOGRAPHER

SCOTT LINDER

PAINTER

While horses are often synonymous with Native Americans, history teaches us that horses were actually a symbol of European power over indigenous people. When the Spanish fled the Pueblo Revolt in 1680, in what is now New Mexico, they left behind about 1,500 horses. Within 20 years, every Native American tribe was mounted. From that point on, horses and Native Americans shared an unbreakable bond. This culture as captured by photographer Edward S. Curtis inspired Scott Linder in his teens and has been a recurring theme in his work ever since. Moreover, the fact that horses, a prey animal, could be bonded to a predator is testimony to Scott’s ideals of believing in your own talent and ability. Like the Native American people, Scott trusts in his intuition. He says that the gutsiest thing any artist can do, intuitively, is to take a painting that was previously considered finished and change it. He relishes in the satisfaction that comes from the creative process and seeing a vision take form. The vibrant style in which he paints, however, is

not necessarily intuitive. It is more recently inspired; an experiment of pure mineral pigment powders. The signature look of his paintings is achieved through an inventive method (which he tediously perfected) of using powdered pigments and acrylic resin. The marriage of technique and inspiration bring his paintings alive, and he is thrilled when his work finds a home. He appreciates the validation that comes from that process. He also impresses to other artists to understand their worth and have the confidence to be fairly compensated. Art as a business can be as unnatural for some as a prey animal allowing a hunting predator on its back. The creativity and practicality must be intertwined in partnership in order to achieve a level of success. Scott leaves us with the clear understanding that his art defines him. “There is nothing else that I want to be and I have tried many things. I can do it, whatever that is, for awhile but I always come back to art. It’s that only thing that makes me feel complete and that I never tire of.”

When the Shah of Iran fell, chaos and fear ensued. Many families lived in uncertainty and chaos. A large number of Iranians fled the turmoil, and each story is harrowing and unique. Ziba’s family fled on horseback through Turkey, eventually landing in Italy on their journey to the United States of America. Ziba recalls this uncertain time of living in hotels in Italy with an interesting perspective. Instead of dwelling on the negative aspects of fleeing a country, and all the familiar comforts, she recounts that as a very young child, her drawing helped her to befriend children in the various hotels, and she delighted in teaching them to draw cartoon figures. Ziba is vibrant and radiates a beautiful energy. Her fun heart dances through life. Her art reflects her joyful heart, radiating rock and roll, but still playful and sweet. Dancing and family are her greatest inspiration. Ziba literally moves constantly--whether it’s dancing or hula hooping, one is sure to find hypnotic trance music, delicious hip hop, or something playing that adds to the energy. Whatever the beat, to Ziba it's about joy and movement. It’s easy to become drawn to her; she exudes a warmth that is addicting. Her honesty about herself and her process are refreshing. She generalizes that women tend to be pleasers, and it takes a hefty dose of life and loss, coupled with time, to learn that one must practice self love in order to exude love. While restless in one sense, she is deeply grounded. Her grounding includes a practice of meditation, eating well, journaling and exercising. Her joy expressed on canvas

literally comes from the inside out. She explains that what you find on her canvas is one hundred percent of the positive energy she has transferred into it. It’s inexplicable. Words cannot give justice to the transference of joy that through a sort of osmosis comes alive on canvas. Ziba summarizes her work succinctly. She creates to let go. And she believes wholeheartedly that her pieces actually choose where they belong. She is merely a conduit in the process.

ZIBA MIXED MEDIA

Leslie KIng readily acknowledges how one’s subconscious insidiously creeps onto a canvas. For Leslie, there is a fine balance. She tries to consciously control a piece as little as possible, hence shutting off her ego while she is painting. She says that the whole point of any of it is to get into that zone where you are creating without your ego yelling at you. Reading between the lines, it’s clear that the very awareness that one's ego can still whisper rings true with her. Leslie expresses that while art is intimate, along with intimacy comes boredom with the familiar.

Once one piece is created, she is ready to move on to the next piece. It is not up to her to judge her work or worry about where it ends up. Her job is creating, which requires letting go. Deadlines and repetition are her sworn enemy. Leslie’s a seeker and a sponge, searching for and absorbing inspiration in various forms. She says that life experiences are a mirror of who we are inside. “If we want to see something new, we have to become something new.” Even books on tape become audible art that flow through her. For example, as she was listening to the book “Princess”, about the Saudi

family, the female forms she was painting turned out so strong and fierce looking. It’s as if she processes things from within her ego and regurgitates an unconscious feeling onto the canvas. The result comes in many emotional forms. Her fascination with nudity started very young and her main inspiration has consistently been female forms. Leslie finds joy and inspiration in travel. When she travels, she loves to visit beaches or simply walk around without an agenda or direction. Seeking no destination and soaking it all up. “Last year in Rio, I nearly died from all the beauty I saw.”

The variations of body shapes, colors and styles were visually explosive. Her vulnerability comes through as she adds that her spirit has a difficult time living in the physical form, so she has to work hard to have a connection to her body. Painting nudes in various sizes with sometimes odd shapes is cathartic for Leslie, her way of finding comfort in the physical. Her favorite quote reminds one of the commonality of mankind and is a glimmer into the artist herself. Ramana Maharshi: Question: How should we treat others? Answer: There are no others.

LYNN FRANKEL FLEETWOOD

Artists are often stereotyped as “sensitive people.” While “sensitive” is a broad term, there certainly is truth to that statement. Within the spectrum of sensitivity, there are a few rare individuals whose intuition is off the charts. These empaths are instinctual artists. Among these gems one will find Lynn Fleetwood. Lynn’s ability to sense subtle energy and absorb it from other people is uncanny. Her ability to do that in nature is mystical. This unyielding capacity allows her to experience the world around her as both emotions and physical sensations. This gift is a mixed bag; it is not entirely pleasant for those who are bestowed with it. While belly laughing with her daughter brings her immeasurable joy, the pain of suffering (human or animal) is devastating on a level that reaches her core.The empath feels so deeply; most people simply cannot understand the complexity of both the joy and the pain that they absorb. What is understood is how her photographs make one feel. Anyone can appreciate empathy in the

form of Lynn’s artwork. Lynn’s photographs speak of profound intuitive experiences around nature and animals. Lynn’s drive is a love of quiet environments. Her playlist is literally whatever the wind, sun or moon is singing at that moment. She finds her sound in complete stillness. Her early work was shot in eastern Africa in Amboseli National Park where her concerto was the sound of all the wildlife with the beating of her heart playing bass to the symphony as she approached her beloved elephants. Lynn’s desire to help others gives perspective as to how huge her heart is. Her photographs honor her ability and express refuge and restoration. Losing oneself in the beauty of her prints is expected, and that connection is a testimony to her gift.

WILL PIERCE

Beyond the stunning seascapes that fill his portfolio, Will Pierce’s cheekiness is undoubtedly part of his charm. When asked what one piece would he display in his home, with the disclaimer that the sky’s the limit, his response is classic: “A giant sequoia or a tropical lagoon.” When asked what breaks his heart, he simply replies, “Tourists.” Each response is clever and pointed and filled with mirth. Will is quietly playful with each retort. The banter could continue, but tucked behind the quick wit lies a complicated and delicately layered man. It’s this element that differentiates Will from an open book. He is a tough read. He works with a peaceful heart, inspired by Impressionist Masters, to what he describes as ambient drone or business audio books. When he shares an experience with Russian Roulette, one wonders if the intent of the working audio is to quiet the subconscious mind. He casually admits things others simply deny. His honesty is what reverberates in his artwork. He reckons who you know matters more than everything else combined. His bravery is perfunctory. What he shoots and how he conveys an emotion are palpable. The simplicity of Will is that his family is both his joy and encouragement. The complexity is that his lack of attachment (specifically letting go of art) has a caveat: “My favorite part of selling art is meeting the buyer.” Perhaps he likes to know if a tourist is hosting an emotion. The genius of Will Pierce is that he actually needs no explanation; one simply has to inhale his artwork.

Native Californian, Bill Gibson is many things to many people. He is an artist, an art collector, a loving and devoted father and a friend. His most treasured things are his dog and his son. His fantasy piece of art is a porcelain plate that Picasso created in the sixties. He enjoys documentaries, and enthusiastically jots down suggestions. At the core of the many hats Bill wears is a compassionate and selfless man. While Bill may say everything will work out for the best, he is living proof of the expression “you get what you give.” He radiates warmth and kindness. He gives without expectation and in return says he is surrounded by wonderful people. It’s hard to believe he is an Aries. His discipline and patience belie his astrological destiny. Bill’s inspiration and encouragement come from his dear friend, Lynn Fliegelman Cohen. Lynn first commissioned a painting from Bill and is the shining reason that Bill went from creating in the retail sense (as a visual director for large department stores) to a personal and intimate sense. The deep bond they share and her unyielding support keep him painting.

Bill tells a story of observing a young girl, intently looking at one of his paintings at a show. He questioned her perception of his piece, as he was genuinely interested in her critique. Suddenly he saw his painting through the eyes of a 13-year-old girl. He was delighted. She was seeing unintended images, and instead of redirecting her perception, he embraced her imagery and was charmed by her imagination. That’s the thing about Bill-- his art means different things to different people, and he appreciates that individual process. He says he creates to move on and he reminds us that beautiful accidents happen, in life and on canvas. Things will end as they are meant to be. Just know when to stop.

BILL GIBSON

The Future of Real Estate

The Future of Real Estate

As we sit on the cusp of this new era in Real Estate, our team along with the ever growing support of Compass are able to utilize an unrivaled array of opportunities to expose your property to the targeted audience. We pride ourselves on being the driving force of breaking price standards and barriers and pursuing new and untapped thresholds of global marketing. Truly leading our clientele into The Future of Real Estate.

• Power of market share

• Innovation • Technology • Marketing

• Reach • Westside presence • Growth • Network

Dana Olmes & Jeff Biebuyck

747.888.0508 danaandjeff@compass.com danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com DRE 00944676 / 01383921

Tomer & Isidora Fridman 310.926.3777 tomer.fridman@compass.com thefridmangroup.com DRE 01750717 / 01192964

ONLY IN HIDDEN HILLS!

While it may be expected to come upon kids with a lemonade stand on a hot summer day, ice cream carts serving up free frozen treats courtesy of a hip hop superstar is certainly out of the ordinary. This past July, Hidden Hills resident, Drake, surprised his neighbors with four fully manned and decked-out carts, branded to promote his new album, "Scorpion." The super cool gesture, approved in advance by the city's HOA, was a welcome oasis (and photo op) for local teens amid the 100 degree plus weather. Will fellow residents Kanye or The Weeknd look to one-up him? (Hmmm...An ice skating rink for the holidays perhaps?) Stay tuned!

GETTY IMAGES

INTO WIDE OPEN THE GREAT

ONE OF CALIFORNIA'S PREMIER SPOTS TO PEDAL, GALLOP & HIKE IS RIGHT NEXT DOOR WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY JAKE WARNER

Many cities in the U nited s tates are famo U s for their U niq U e attrib U tes

The mountain town of Aspen, for example, has some of the best runs skiers can touch west of the Alps. Right out in front of most houses on the North Shore of Oahu are the most perfect and sacred waves surfers can dream

of. The neighborhood of Pebble Beach, CA has 18 glorious holes that have been cemented onto the bucket lists of golfers around the world. And directly out through the back gate of Hidden Hills is a 2,983-acre park commonly still known as Ahmanson Ranch. Ahmanson is home to some of the best trails for Mountain Biking, Hiking, Walking and Horseback

Riding our country has to offer. For a number of years, the Ranch was the center of considerable controversy when its then owner, Washington Mutual Bank, had plans to develop the open property site for 3,000 homes, a golf course and a shopping plaza. The concerns focused, not surprisingly, on the extra traffic the project would unleash

through the already-overburdened 101 freeway and Valley Circle Road; and, equally important, on the devastating impact to nature, because Ahmanson’s acreage is also home to endangered and protected wildlife species. The debate came to a close when, in late 2003, the State’s Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy stepped in and acquired the

entire property from the bank for a parkland, renaming it the Upper Las Virgenes Open Space Preserve. Still fondly referred to by its historic name, Ahmanson Ranch, the near 3,000 acres are an open haven for biking, horseback riding, hiking and walking.

The Ranch features nearly 30 miles of trails that are connected directly to Calabasas and Hidden

Hills on one end, to Chesebro Canyon on another end and to Simi Valley on still other, offering the neighboring residents a plethora of opportunities to get out and enjoy their activities in the wideopen spaces. Ahmanson is so unique compared to other park lands in the area because of its “untouched vibe”; it is in marked contrast to other areas that have

become tainted with signage and fencing, making them feel more like man made courses rather than natural trails.

Although I grew up only minutes away from Ahmanson, I never experienced it aside from a casual hike. I’ve always wanted to get a better understanding of its true beauty, so I figured I would take a mountain bike ride in the park to get a “real” experience. To do so, I enlisted a

local resident who has not only moved to the area for its abundance of trails but has also made bike culture his occupation and life. Robbie Schaefer is a Hidden Hills resident and owner of Pedalers Fork and 10 speed coffee, a restaurant and coffee shop in Old Town Calabasas, encompassing all that is cycling culture. Robbie was thrilled that he would be my “Ahmanson Sherpa,” as he rides there roughly five times a week and is deeply passionate about how special the trails are.

As he requested, I met Robbie at his house about an hour before sunset after he told me the only way to really have the full Ahmanson biking experience is to finish the ride just before dark. He set me up with a bike and helmet and we took off directly from his driveway. The ride started by getting a steady pedal going. We got some help from Robbie’s handlebar mounted wireless speaker setting a vibe in the background, like Soul Cycle but much better. Before long, we arrived at the park entrance. The luxury of being able to ride there instead of needing to drive is very apparent once you experience it yourself. Upon entering the gates, it becomes obvious how untouched those near-3,000 acres really are. Aside from a lightly paved path that remains should fire trucks need access, the park is vast and empty for as far as the eye can see. One of two main trails that break off from the entrance is the one Robbie suggested we take. Known as the “Mary Westbrook Loop,” the trail bends and climbs around a wide, flat valley called the “Lasky Mesa.” The Mesa gives off a time travel feeling to an era before the San Fernando and Conejo Valleys were inhabited. The absence of any structures or civilization and the presence of hundred-year-old oak trees and unkempt grass allow park goers to fully escape from reality.

—ROBBIE SCHAEFER

THAT’S WHY I LOVE THIS SO MUCH. IT’S JUST A SIMPLE RIDE AWAY FROM WHERE I SLEEP; IT’S SUCH AN AMAZING PLACE.

We started pedaling, Robbie at a much greater and fluid pace than me. As we began to climb to the top of the Mesa’s bordering range, the temperature began to drop with the aid of a nice breeze, and the scenery began to change. The original plain setting we’d observed began transforming into a more complex backdrop. We stopped for a water break at the summit where the trail forked, which was

realistically no more than 200-300 feet higher than the beginning but felt like five times more.

Robbie explained that the different routes we could take would actually lead to different terrain and environments. “To the left down there you’ll end up on the northwest corner of Ahmanson where it gets pretty hilly and there are trails that will drop you off near Agoura. Straight will take you on a trail all the

“TO THE LEFT DOWN THERE YOU’LL END UP ON THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF AHMANSON WHERE IT GETS PRETTY HILLY AND THERE ARE TRAILS THAT WILL DROP YOU OFF NEAR AGOURA. STRAIGHT WILL TAKE YOU ON A TRAIL ALL THE WAY TO THE 118. TO THE RIGHT, THE VEGETATION GETS THICKER AND IT’S A GREAT DOWNHILL RIDE ALL THE WAY TOWARDS WEST HILLS.”

Comprehensive Learning Center

Synergy Academics provides one-on-one tutoring, homework assistance, standardized test preparation, and college admissions counseling in the West San Fernando Valley Area. Register to nd a tutor and book online today!

way to the 118. To the right, the vegetation gets thicker and it’s a great downhill ride all the way towards West Hills.”

As a treat to my legs and stamina, we went right. Cruising down the tighter but descending trail was a total blast. We kept great speed as the bikes handled turn after turn, and soon we were happily cruising under an umbrella of oak trees. The lower end of the park felt cooler

and damper. Somehow with the extreme heat and dry climate of summer, the trails and surrounding land felt like they had retained some moisture. Robbie explained that due to the low point of Ahmanson and how many different mountains and parks surround it, water always ends up here. Another water break and a slight geography lesson later we were back to slow pedals and

Founder, Jennifer Lopata

With over 20 years experience in education, behavioral therapy, and child development, Jennifer has developed an affinity for helping children and teens navigate through adolescence and early adulthood.

6700 Fallbrook Ave, Suite 101 West Hills, CA 91307

climbs. We were more than four miles in at this point. I followed and gave it my best shot to keep pace, even with my camera equipment on me. As we approached the final summit of our loop, it became apparent that

we were also nearing toward the edge of the park. Couples, kids and individuals eagerly said hi to us as we passed by. Some were on bikes, others just walking, and we even passed a woman taking her horse for a sundown stroll. Over a span of a mile and a half I got to experience how special this place really is. So many different people enjoying such a simple and cost-free experience through an untouched slice of nature. At the top, we stopped and watched as the last bits of sun hid behind the neighboring range. The lighting

instantly switched to the mood of an old western as we dropped into the final downhill section that ultimately dropped us right where we had started. Minutes later we were pulling into Robbie’s driveway and with full satisfaction and joy he said, “See! That’s why I love this so much. It’s just a simple ride away from where I sleep; it’s such an amazing place.”

If you live within even a 30-minute drive to Ahmanson Ranch, do yourself a favor and visit. Enjoy it, take it all in and just dedicate an hour of your week to escape civilization. You’ll thank me later.

I GOT TO EXPERIENCE HOW SPECIAL THIS PLACE REALLY IS. SO MANY DIFFERENT PEOPLE ENJOYING SUCH A SIMPLE AND COST-FREE EXPERIENCE THROUGH AN UNTOUCHED SLICE OF NATURE

—JAKE WARNER

Devil details

Tis The Season for Gore Galore

Written By Brielle Fraser

There is always the one house on every residential street that transforms itself into a truly haunting spectacle each Halloween. These houses of horror have been immortalized through television, movies and books; they instill a certain nostalgia for us all when Hallow’s Eve approaches. For the Hidden Hills community, Jennifer Zuiker reigns as the spook master.

“Halloween is my favorite holiday. Kids are so smiley and proud of their costumes . . . I love seeing all of them. I try to be more kid friendly, minimizing graphic violence, but even then, they’re still scared to walk through,” Zuiker says.

Zuiker, creative mastermind and owner of Gory Girl Events, pours her ever-mortal soul into celebrating the “day of the dead” every year. While most would only spend the pre-Halloween Saturday afternoon tossing rubber spiders and fake cobwebs onto their hedges, Zuiker meticulously plans and perfects her haunt 365 days to two years in advance.

“My build is super extensive. I remove all of the furniture from

my house and I install extra walls, which takes me a full year to plan and about two weeks to install,” Zuiker explains. “However, when it’s a Halloween party year, which just so happens to be this year, the planning takes me a total of two years.”

She began collecting spooky pieces and props around 20 years ago that now completely fill two large warehouses. The props and decorations range from antique oddities to the most current props on the market; they are used to not only deck out her own home but, as of recent, are also now a part of a business venture that offers the community prop-staging to ensure people’s Halloween needs are sinisterly satisfied.

“I moved to Hidden Hills because I wanted to get out of Brentwood and settle in an open place where you get to know your neighbors,” Zuiker states. “When I moved here, I finally had the area to do what I wanted. Every year the theme is different and as time went on, I had acquired a ton of props and decorations, so neighbors started to ask me to do the fronts of their houses for Halloween.”

Gory Girl Events prides itself on staying true and authentic to each theme it commits to. Whether it’s gutting an old television set and placing a flat screen behind it that plays black and white movies, or buying vintage iceboxes to place fake bodies inside, Zuiker pays

RIGHT: THIS TOWERING ALIEN MONSTER IS MORE THAN 8 FEET TALL.

OPPOSITE, TOP TO BOTTOM: A PHANTOM ENTERTAINS WHILE GUESTS DINE IN THE BACKGROUND. IT TAKES "A LOT OF GUTS" TO CONVERT YOUR FAMILY ROOM INTO A ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE.

close attention to the devil in the details.

“This is kind of a tester year because it’s the first year I’m offering my services to people using my props,” Zuiker says. “I only rent props to industry, but if you hire me to stage your house or party, the props are included in the pricing,” Zuiker says.

The planning and execution of these elaborate parties

and haunted houses is extensive and time-consuming for Zuiker, but she is never ill prepared for either of them since she knows which haunt conventions to creep on for her extravaganza needs.

“I start in August or September with setup, and my family gets very houseproud when all is said and done,” Zuiker explains.

ABOVE: JUST ANOTHER DAY AT THE GORY GIRL AGOURA HILLS OFFICES.

As she describes, “Halloween is a labor of love.” Each year, Zuiker becomes inspired by an idea for a specific theme that propels her into building massive facades, shredding fabrics, antiquing props by hand, rusting metals and trying to find items that are quirky additions to the house as a whole to add to the chilling atmosphere. For all of the little ones who may be too timid to brave the haunting hallways inside of Zuiker’s home during Halloween season, she hands out candy and hires a DJ who entertains outside as a way to include the children without the added spook factor.

The theme of this year’s haunt will not be revealed until her doors open; however, prepare to have your bones thoroughly chilled!

ABOVE: THE AMOUNT OF DETAIL THAT GOES INTO THE REALISM OF ZUIKERS MENAGERIE OF MONSTERS IS MIND-BOGGLING. IF SHE CAN'T FIND VISION, SHE MAKES IT COME TO LIFE AT THE GORY GIRL WORKSHOP.

BELOW: PREPARATIONS UNDERWAY FOR ONE OF ZUIKER'S NEIGHBORHOOD SPOOKFESTS.

LEFT: A GRIM JACK-O-LANTERN CREATED BY GORY GIRL, AND A DOCTOR, ALWAYS ON CALL IN CASE ANY GUESTS FAINTS FROM FEAR.

CHECK OUT GORYGIRL.COM FOR HUNDREDS OF PHOTOS & MORE INFO PARTIES, RENTALS AND MORE

TAYLOR ROSS WITH HER MOM, CHRISTINE, A FORMER NCL CHAPTER PRESIDENT.

A LEAGUE

of their own

Moving to Hidden Hills during my teenage years was a great experience overall, but one thing I wish I had pursued was getting more involved with the community. These days, being a 16-year-old girl in high school takes up a lot of time; it seems like I never have a free moment to spend with my family—especially my mother.

WRITTEN BY SELA DIAB | PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE ROSS FAMILY

But I recently learned of a golden opportunity:

National Charity League (“NCL”) is a nonprofit, national organization helping other charities and those in need; it is a fantastic way to make a difference in your own backyard, while also offering teenage girls a chance to share a meaningful activity with their mothers. Established in

1948, the San Fernando Chapter of National Charity League has been taking action for a little over 70 years, with the help of 500 motherdaughter members (both active and inactive). While giving back to their community during their years at NCL, the daughters also learn from their peers and mothers about entering adulthood with poise and responsibility. All of us should

THE NATIONAL CHARITY LEAGUE EMPOWERS GIRLS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR COMMUNITY

CHRISTINE ALSO DESCRIBES NCL’S THREE GUIDEPOSTS, KNOWN AS THE “THREE PILLARS”: COMMUNITY SERVICE, LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT, AND CULTURAL EXPERIENCES.

be looking for ways to help the less fortunate people and causes in our community; NCL is one very successful way to do this!

Hidden Hills resident Christine Ross was President of the San Fernando Chapter of the National Charity League during the 20172018 year. Her job was to oversee all of the Chapter’s endeavors-including all of its events. She explains how her daughter Taylor Ross, now a high school senior, is involved with the group: “My daughter is a captain at the farmers market. She is in charge of checking in people who come to volunteer, making sure they’re assigned to their position, and knowing what they need to do. This is an opportunity for leadership as well.” Taylor and Christine have put a lot of effort into NCL by being leaders together in the group.

Christine also describes NCL’s three guideposts, known as the “Three Pillars”: community service, leadership development, and cultural experiences. Here’s how they do it: The mothers and daughters work together contributing community service and helping those in need.

For leadership development, the daughters have their own monthly meetings. Their responsibilities include preparing for events by creating agendas and budgets, and exploring ideas on how to hold each event. Their mothers have monthly meetings too. “It’s been a unique and life-altering opportunity for us both to take leadership positions in an organization that gives back to our community,” says Christine about her and Taylor.

The Annual Charity Ball is a fundraiser held every year at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel for the seniors to graduate the program. The proceeds from this event go directly to the 11 charities NCL works with, including Motion Picture Hospital, Operation Gratitude, Boys and Girls Club, West Valley Food Pantry, and One Generation Senior Center. Additionally, NCL hosts a Promenade Tea at the Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake, where each girl is rewarded for completing her minimum 20 hours a year...and even exceeding those hours (some have even reached 300 hours in a year). By walking the stage and introducing themselves, the girls are taught how to be poised in front of an audience. An annual toy drive is also held at the West Valley Food Pantry.

OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE: NCL PARTICIPANT RILEY LEVATON WITH HER MOTHER, KATHY, AT AN NCL EVENT. A BLANKET MADE FOR GUIDE DOGS IN TRAINING. NCL GIRLS VOLUNTEERING AT THE ENCINO FARMERS MARKET TO RAISE MONEY FOR THE ONE GENERATION SENIOR CENTER.

For cultural experiences, the girls learn how to host teas and write handwritten thank you notes; they even attend plays and art museums. “These are all activities to share with their mothers...while also providing leadership opportunities for these girls,” says Christine.

To get involved with NCL, the daughters start in the seventh grade; they continue until the twelfth grade. Christine Ross commends NCL for giving her and Taylor many opportunities to spend time together making a difference in the community. Taylor adds, “National Charity League for me means being able to give back to my community in a meaningful way that I wouldn’t otherwise have been able to do. It has also brought my mom and me closer together. Someday we can look back on our NCL experience and

smile, knowing we helped not only each other but also the others around us.”

Overall, the organization’s San Fernando Valley Chapter raises over $100,000 dollars a year. That means they feed over 200 families at the Food Pantry and help out the Pantry during emergencies--like paying to replace toys when its shed was broken into. Other ways they have given back is by providing an off-leash area for dogs to be trained and play and conducting Bingo once a week at the Motion Picture Hospital.

As we’ve learned from Christine and Taylor Ross, National Charity League is a most worthwhile, valuable and meaningful opportunity to get involved in the community, meet others, and give back.

NATIONAL CHARITY LEAGUE FOR ME MEANS BEING ABLE TO GIVE BACK TO MY COMMUNITY IN A MEANINGFUL WAY THAT I WOULDN’T OTHERWISE HAVE BEEN ABLE TO DO.

-TAYLOR ROSS

TOP TO BOTTOM: ELLA STONICH, KATIE FRAZEE, LAUREN KESSLER AND HANNAH NAPOLSKE VOLUNTEER AT A TOY DRIVE; MARY TODD-McGINNIS AND DAUGHTER, NICOLE WITH VICTORIA BLACK AND DAUGHTER, FELICITY; LISA GARR WITH DAUGHTER KAYLA DAVIS.

Renewal Beauty Bar is happy to announce that our spa facility was just renovated and we happily invite our Hidden Hills and Calabasas neighbors to try out our new treatments. We are also proud to announce that we now offer IN-HOME SERVICES TO ALL OF OUR HIDDEN HILLS CLIENTS AND CALABASAS.

Renewal Beauty Bar is a full service spa, offering a variety of relaxing treatments from your scalp to your pores to your toes. Begin with pampering your nails with or high-end nail artists that do acrylic, UV gel, nail art, and, our newest addition, bio seaweed gel. Then, get that golden glow from our facial estheticians, offering everything from waxing, eyebrow shaping, microdermabrasion, ultrasonic/red light, stem cells, to both gold and oxygen facial for both men and women. Our skin products come from all the best European countries. In addition to our wide menu of massage therapy treatments, Renewal spa offers a variety of body scrubs and detox wraps. To finish off your day-time relaxation, check out our new blow dry bar!

WITHIN ten10

PLACES TO KNOW AND GO WITHIN 10 MILES OF ANY HIDDEN HILLS GATE Special Featured Business Section

yogaLITbarre

WRITTEN BY BRIELLE FRASER | PHOTOS BY LIT YOGA BARRE

Namaste has officially reached the Calabasas community and enlightenment just got lit! Lit Yoga Barre is a studio where all are welcome to express their inner yogi, while simultaneously breaking a healthy sweat.

“There was a lack of fitness in Calabasas for a long time. We wanted to bring hot yoga into the area but also have a good variety of classes for people in the community,” Melissa Davidson, Co-Owner of Lit Yoga Barre says.

Davidson, along with her sisterin-law, Mona Lugo, had both been working corporate jobs, with extensive experience in marketing, when they made the decision to leave the life of business casual and take on a new career wearing yoga pants, with a few cleansing breaths of course.

“My sister-in-law and I went to a yoga retreat last February in the Bahamas and it started to spark the idea of opening our own studio; we’ve always been passionate about fitness,” says Davidson. “We opened Lit April 30th.”

The goal of their studio is to provide the Calabasas community with a fun, energetic, yet mindful workout unlike any others offered in the surrounding communities.

“We began wanting to create a really comfortable candle lit environment, where people can focus on their practice and not feel self-conscious,” Davidson explains. “We also wanted to encourage our teachers to incorporate a lot of current music; music is important to the brand.”

Lit offers six different classes for those looking to change up their current practice a bit: from Restorative Yoga, to Barre/Yoga mix, to traditional Barre and Yoga Core for those who are more inclined towards a fast-

paced workout environment mixed with yogic principles.

“Our signature class, ‘LIT yoga,’ brings in a lot of sensual movement and is definitely something you wouldn’t find anywhere else because it’s so unique,” says Davidson.

For those who are not fans of a heated room, never fear--Lit offers non-heated classes to accommodate everyone’s preferences. Unlike other heated yoga studios, Lit utilizes an infrared heat without any added humidity.

“Infrared heat warms the objects in the room versus the air in the room; it heats up your body from your core directly, which helps to burn more calories,” Davidson explains.

Even if you don’t currently own a yoga mat, a premium mat is provided to you for class, along with a water bottle to make sure you remain hydrated throughout at no extra charge. After class if you need to freshen up, the locker rooms are equipped with beauty products and cold eucalyptus towels to extend the Zen ambiance.

Lit Yoga Barre is located at the Courtyard by The Commons and welcomes everyone to leave all worries on the mat and embrace the fire within.

SIERRA CANYON learning forward

The Sierra Canyon journey is a truly communal endeavor. Their entire learning family — students, teachers, administrators, alumni, and parents — join together to create the school’s endlessly inventive, vividly diverse, vibrantly hopeful school culture. They call it “Learning Forward.”

Tucked into Chatsworth’s suburban rolling hills, Sierra Canyon is actually two campuses, each educating with the philosophy that every child learns differently. A spirit of enthusiastic creativity sweeps through Sierra Canyon, growing stronger as their carefully designed Pre-Kindergarten through grade 12 program expands

every child’s vision, ambition, and capability a little more every day. “Every child deserves to be looked at as an individual learner,” says Jim Skrumbis, Head of School. “In mainstream education, class sizes and a ‘one curriculum fits all’ approach leaves a disconnect with so many students. We teach in a way that fosters a love of learning, something that we aim to instill in everyone that touches our school.”

In their Lower Campus’s verdant enclave, children discover and hone their talents and interests. On these sheltering green grounds, their expert early childhood teachers nurture the intellectual and moral development of

each child in equal measure, giving them an unusually firm foundation for learning and growing. In grades three through six, curiosity and confidence are built upon through active questioning real-world problem solving, and thoughtful small-group work. By the end of the transitional 6th grade year, students have grown into strikingly self-aware, self-directed young thinkers and citizens, ready for the galvanizing challenges of Sierra Canyon’s middle school.

The Upper Campus is grounded in an entrepreneurial, question-driven philosophy that fosters both independent thinking and productive collaboration. Consisting of both middle school grades

seven and eight, as well as high school grades nine through twelve, it is here that each child is consistently transforming original ideas into real solutions. They come to deeply know and respect their own interests and capabilities—and those of others. Equipped with that exceptional understanding, guided by attentive teachers and college counselors, each Sierra Canyon student confidently determines their own path to college and career success.

Balanced with a wide offering of unique and diverse extracurricular activities ranging from film making to music to fine arts to sports, the values, diversity and excellence of the Learning Forward philosophy come together to help form exceptionally well rounded and confident young adults. “Our Upper School graduates regularly enroll in top colleges, including Harvard, Columbia, Brown, USC, NYU, Duke, Stanford, and UC Berkley,” says Skrumbis. “They go on to forge satisfying and significant lives. Lives that we are proud to have as part of our ever-growing Sierra Canyon learning family.

To start your Sierra Canyon journey, please join them for their Campus Preview Days:

Pre-K – Grade 6: Saturday, November 17, 2018 10:00 a.m.

Grades 7-12: Saturday, November 3, 2018 9:00 a.m. Register at VisitingSC.org

SIERRA CANYON SCHOOL

Lower School 11052 Independence Avenue Middle & Upper School 20801 Rinaldi Street Chatsworth, CA 91311 818.882.8121 www.sierracanyonschool.org

FACTORsurfaces

Experienced designers know that amid the whirlwind of architectural decisions and construction challenges that often come with building or remodeling a home, selecting the finishes may not only be daunting, but can also make or break the ultimate look and feel of a space. Will the stone in the master bath flow with the rest of the rooms? Will the wood floors in the family room endure the family? Are there places to spend more per square foot on premium materials where in others you could be saving by making smarter choices? — All good and important questions that can be deftly answered by the experts at Factor Surfaces in Woodland Hills.

“Factor” is not just a confident name that fits this business, it is the name of the family that has owned it for more than 15 years. Vladimir Factor, one of the family co-owners who dotes over the day-to-day details, is one of those entrepreneurs whose enthusiasm for what he’s helped to create is contagious. “I always remind myself that all guests who walk through our door may be starting from square-one in terms of knowing what they want or what might work for them,” says Vladimir. “So we constantly work to keep everything relevant, organized and understandable so that the knowledge we have quickly becomes their own.”

FACTOR SURFACES

22419 Ventura Blvd, Woodland Hills, CA 91364 818.348.0401 www.factorsurfaces.com

Smartly assorting the best offerings from their more than 300 vendors is really only one element that takes the stress out of the process. The other “factor” to this equation is great service. Factor’s staff are there to guide clients each step of the way, literally applying an added dimension to the experience by bringing their ideas to life with CADs (Computer Aided Designs) and 3-D modeling. “There are so many excellent tools today that can help you visualize that which was only until that moment existing in someone’s mind,” says Vladimir. “When our clients can see how all these materials will live together in a home, it turns their uncertainty into confidence, and that’s what makes designing a great space possible.”

Once crystallized, Factor can work to implement that vision into the real world, overseeing the installation of anything they offer, be it stone, tile or wood, no matter how meticulous the pattern. “Surfaces are the finishing touch to the home. It is the culmination of a ton of hard work, passion and planning,” says Vladimir. “To be an integral part of that final phase — to take the project from that moment we meet uncertain clients, to setting the last tile or plank of wood and seeing their happiness, is what we love to do.”

& HUNTOVER

defining equestrian success MARK BONE

WRITTEN BY WRITTEN BY EMMA WALDFOGEL

Mark Bone “gets it.” Over the past 27 years, Mark has developed a remarkable equestrian program, suitable to working men and women, high school and college students, and young children. Mark’s barn, Huntover, excels at providing individualized attention for each student, at all skill levels, with a specific emphasis on quality. He has successfully trained equitation winners, hunter champions and riders showing up to the Grand Prix level. His versatility and adaptability in all three rings make him a strong force at the highest levels of the competitive equestrian “A” circuit. The Huntover

team fosters each of its students a clear sense of ambition, passion and joy for the equestrian sport.

Mark began riding and training in Virginia, but he moved to the West Coast when he was 26 years old. He has trained out of the Los Angeles area ever since. In 2017, Huntover moved to a newly renovated facility in the idyllic Bell Canyon area near Hidden Hills. He frequents “A-rated” shows like the HITS Desert Circuit (Thermal), Blenheim Equisports at the Oaks and Del Mar, Sonoma Horse Park, and the Temecula National Horse Show. Mark often makes trips to the East Coast for prestigious

national competitions. Some of his most recent achievements include championships at the Devon Horse Show, the Hampton Classic Horse Show, the Capital Challenge Horse Show, and the National Horse Show in New York.

Mark’s expertise and reputation are not the only traits that set him apart. Mark truly cares about his clients and the horses he trains. Many of the clients at Huntover have been riding with Mark for over 20 years. He acts as a trainer, but also as a close friend, an advisor, a mentor, and even a father figure. Mark wants the best for everyone in his life, and he works exceptionally hard to make sure the people with whom he spends time are truly happy, both as competitors and in their own lives.

Mark makes the same effort for the horses he trains. Each horse receives individualized attention both from Mark himself and from his assistants, Laura Santana and Korie Sullada. Mark also employs a strong and expansive team of staff to ensure that each horse feels its best mentally and physically. Mark’s care for and love for the horses helps the business run effortlessly, and leaves his clients with a sense of ease. His acute attention to detail is truly unparalleled.

When thinking about a riding trainer, Mark Bone fits all the right criteria: he is ambitious but safe, knowledgeable but patient, busy but organized. However, Mark’s business thrives on more than just his prowess as a great equestrian professional. Mark is also an honest person who truly wants the best for his clients, his friends, and his extended family. His intense desire to help each person around him is truly extraordinary. For more information, or if you would like to contact Mark Bone about his business, please visit huntover.com

Photo courtesy of McCool Equestrian Photos

HARVESTING NEW MEMORIES AT THIS YEAR’S FALL FESTIVALS

WITH TEMPERATURES DROPPING AND THE HOLIDAYS APPROACHING, THERE’S NO BETTER TIME THAN AUTUMN TO CELEBRATE THE BOUNTY OF CALIFORNIA’S SEASONAL CELEBRATIONS.

BY ELYSE GLICKMAN

The media often calls Summer our “festival season” with its mammoth multi-band music festivals covering every genre (beginning with Coachella in April and ending with Burning Man in Nevada in September). But Autumn is the real deal when it comes to gatherings that are inclusive, family friendly, and offer many activities, live performances, and opportunities to reconnect with nature. In addition to bringing color and a seasonal feel to Southern California's stillbalmy autumn months,

several Fall festivals serve as self-contained minivacations. Often involving minimal driving, they can provide everyone a much-needed time-out and breath of fresh air before arrival of the busy holiday season. Here is a glimpse at some of them:

How Do You Like Them Apples?

The L.A. County Fair in Pomona (lacountyfair. com) makes its timehonored return from Aug. 31 – Sept. 23, 2018. Everything we love about the 97-year-old fair will be there, from fried snacks on

AUTUMN IS THE REAL DEAL WHEN IT COMES TO GATHERINGS THAT ARE INCLUSIVE, FAMILY FRIENDLY, AND OFFER MANY ACTIVITIES, LIVE PERFORMANCES, AND OPPORTUNITIES TO RECONNECT WITH NATURE.

a stick to thrill rides, a petting zoo, and livestock beauty contests. There will also be craft beer and wine tastings, contemporary expressions of farm-to-fork food for sale, and a highly anticipated lineup of enduring rock, soul and pop bands on the nostalgia circuit. This year’s acts include The Beach Boys, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, War & Tower of Power, The Manhattans, The Commodores, and more.

October and November are prime time for apple picking in the agricultural hub of Oak Glen (oakglen.com), which also has Fall foliage that will make some L.A. transplants feel a lot less homesick for the East Coast and Midwest. The entire family will

enjoy picking apples at the peak of their flavor and ripeness; some may even find themselves inspired to transform a selection of their “top” picks into apple pie or cider.

Oak Glen’s apple season formally concludes the weekend after Thanksgiving (Nov. 23-25) with the annual Apple Butter Festival (losriosrancho.com/currentevents/2018/11/23/apple-butterfestival) at Riley's at Los Rios Rancho. The Festival is inspired by a pioneer family-era tradition of cooking up apple butter to preserve the last of the harvested fruits. Activities and demos include apple butter making (naturally!), as well as cider pressing, apple butter s’mores, hoe cakes, corn

shucking and grinding, candle making, horse-drawn wagon rides, an Old West pioneer encampment, a trout fishing derby, and kids’ soap carving. In addition to live country and folk music sets, entertainment will include Native American performances, a True West Pirate Show, and a Harvest Hoedown.

A Bumper Crop of FarmFresh Family Weekend Fun in Moorpark

The Underwood Family Farms Fall Harvest Festival (www. underwoodfamilyfarms.com), taking place Sept. 29-Oct. 31, has earned its designation as a Southern California institution. It truly does have something for everyone. What makes the Harvest Festival

THIS PAGE: THE L.A. COUNTY FAIR IN POMONA BRINGS TOGETHER ALL THAT IS GOOD IN LOS ANGELES FOR FAMILY FRIENDLY FUN

WHAT MAKES THE UNDERWOOD HARVEST FESTIVAL SO MAGICAL, HOWEVER, IS THAT IT TRANSPORTS VISITORS BACK TO A SIMPLER TIME WHEN ADVENTURE COULD BE FOUND JUST OUTSIDE ONE’S FRONT DOOR OR IN ONE’S BACKYARD.

THIS PAGE, UNDERWOOD FAMILY FARMS: OVERSIZED OFF ROAD TRICYCLES ARE FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES. FALL THEMED ARTS AND CRAFTS FROM LOCAL ARTISANS. WHY GO TO A STORE TO PICK OUT YOUR PUMPKINS WHEN YOU CAN HAVE AN AUTHENTIC AUTUMN, COUNTRY EXPERIENCE?

so magical, however, is that it transports visitors back to a simpler time when adventure could be found just outside one’s front door or in one’s backyard. Every weekend during the Festival’s run serves up a different taste of those good old days.

A familiar—and much-loved— assemblage of county fair and agricultural harvest elements will be rolled out every week, including a farm field labyrinth, pig races, animal competitions, hay pyramids, pick-your-own fruit and vegetables, live concert performances, and farmto-fork food for purchase. There will also be numerous educational and nostalgic exhibits for the kids, ranging from a pumpkin playhouse

to an animal center with livestock and bee barn, “Fun Hill” and “Kids’ Corral” play areas, Farmer Craig's Chicken Show, Combine Slide, and more.

The Festival kicks off during the last weekend of September with the Friends of the Farm Weekend, a full-on tribute to the various organizations keeping the community safe and secure. Some proceeds from the weekend's gate benefit The Ventura County Sheriff's Explorers Program, VCSO Foundation & Search and Rescue Groups, Thousand Oaks Volunteers in Policing & Disaster Response Team (DART), and The Ventura County Fire Department's Charity Groups. Kids will be enthralled

with fire truck and ambulance demonstrations, as well as special appearances by members of the Bomb Squad with their bomb robot, Swat members with SWAT tanktype vehicle, Search and Rescue Snow Cat, K-9 Demonstrations, Disaster Action, Response Team display (DART), Police Car, Police Motorcycle, and Search and Rescue Displays.

Farm Country Weekend (Oct. 6-7) stages down-home fun, complete with country and bluegrass music and a live-remote visit from favorite local station KHAY. Antique Tractor Weekend (Oct. 13-14) is headlined with a lively parade of antique tractors and even a tractor parade by none other than Ventura County's Topa

Topa Flywheelers. Everybody can embrace their inner cowboy during Western Weekend (Oct. 20-21) with stunt ropers, a covered wagon, music, and more. The Festival will rap just before Halloween (Oct. 27-28) with All About Pumpkins, a gourd-geous procession of all things pumpkin and squash, seasonal decorating ideas, and a performance by The Catterwailers & Rocky Neck Bluegrass.

More Prime Picks The Ventura Harvest Festival (www.harvestfestival.com/ventura. htm, Oct. 5-7) offers fans of DIY and ETSY a different kind of harvest. The arts-and-crafts focused celebration features thousands of handmade items from American artisans, including jewelry, clothing, specialty foods, photography, handturned wood, ceramics and unique home décor.

Another excellent bet for the artistically inclined is Fallbrook Scarecrow Days (fallbrookchamberofcommerce. org, Oct. 1-31, 10 am-4 pm). The stores and restaurants on and around the town’s Main Avenue display carefully conceived scarecrows

crafted with a variety of materials and found objects delivering a slice of rural life and a sense of humor. The Fallbrook Harvest Faire (Oct. 28) adds an extra helping of flavor to Main Avenue with handmade crafts, a petting zoo, pony rides, a pie baking contest, and seasonal treats for sale.

Paso Robles’ annual Pioneer Day and Parade (pasoroblespioneerday. org, Oct. 13) is a sprawling, free-tothe-public day of antique tractors, horse-drawn wagons, marching bands, mounted equestrian groups, dancers, floats, fire engines, vintage cars, and Little Cowboy and Cowgirl competitions. The original Pioneer Day took place October 12, 1931, and was created by community volunteers working with generous donations of time, materials and money from individuals, businesses, churches and service organizations. Their goal was to provide a day of community friendship and a commemoration of the heritage of the Paso Robles area. Twenty-nine Palms will stage its own 82nd Annual Pioneer Days weekend (visit29.org/event/pioneer-

FALL IS ONE OF THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA'S BEST TIMES OF YEAR TO GET OUT AND EXPERIENCE SURROUNDING AREAS AND SAVOR THE CHANGE OF SEASONS

THIS PAGE, DANISH DAYS IN SANTA YNEZ: THE CULTURE OF DENMARK WITH A SO-CAL TWIST HAS BEEN ROOTED IN SOLVANG SINCE ITS FOUNDING. EACH YEAR, WITH THE ADVENT OF FALL, THE TOWN'S NORDIC SPIRIT BLOSSOMS FOR ALL TO ENJOY.

days. Oct. 18-21) in Luckie Park with a parade, carnival, Honorary Judge & Sheriff contest, Little Miss and Master contest, Outhouse Races, and other old-school events. Carnival, vendors and community booths are in Thursday through Sunday, plus music, beer garden, arm-wrestling tournament, pet parade, and more. Saturday morning features a Firefighters Pancake Breakfast and Grand Marshals' Tribute.

Fall Around the World Fall is considered an ideal time to visit Europe, with its fabulous Fall foliage, seasonal traditions, local foods, and entertainment. Lucky for those of us living in and around Los Angeles, some European highlights

are just a few hours away on the freeway, and no passport is needed.

Danish Days in Solvang (solvangdanishdays.org), Sept. 1416, brings old world Scandinavia to life with parades, concerts, music and dance, a Viking beer and wine garden, a chainsaw carver, an old world artisan marketplace, demos, antique shopping, Danish food, and proud Danish-Americans celebrating their heritage. The town and its visitors from both Northern and Southern California line the streets in Danish-style costumes to folk dance and mingle. Danish Days also features Hans Christian Anderson story-telling by Randel McGee, authentic pastries

(aebleskiver) and Danish sausage (medisterpoise), as well as wine tasting from the adjoining Santa Ynez Valley.

With so many Americans claiming German ancestry, it’s no surprise “Oktoberfest” celebrations are running in full force throughout the U.S. during the entire autumn season. However, in Southern California, the Oktoberfest in Torrance (alpinevillagecenter.com/ Oktoberfest/; Sept. 7-Oct. 27) is the stuff of legend. Best suited for families with adult children and multi-generational groups, the highenergy celebration features German beer, food, and music, with a band from Germany and lots of contests.

RIGHT: VENTURA'S SEASIDE HIGHLAND GAMES ARE AN AUTUMN CELEBRATION IN THE ANCIENT SPIRIT OF THE BRITISH ISLES.

Up in Ventura, the best of the British Isles comes to life at the Seaside Highland Games (seaside-games.com; Oct. 13-14), including bag piping, drumming, folk music, dancing, British cars & food, games, athletic competitions, herding dogs, beer tasting, and a children’s area at Ventura County Fairgrounds. Closer to home, in North Hollywood, The Los Angeles Italian Festival (laitalianfestival. com, Oct. 21) is a free-of-charge feast of Mediterranean charm incorporating Italian food, music, comedy, beer, wine, bocce ball, entertainment, and kids’ activities at Lankershim Boulevard & Chandler Boulevard.

If Asian food and culture is your thing, journey to Chinatown in Downtown L.A. for the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival (www.chinatownla.com, Sept. 29) to enjoy and savor a variety of Chinese and Asian fare, as well as cultural demonstrations, Mooncake samples from Chinatown’s popular bakeries, live pop and rock concerts by local acts, a photo booth with 1940s cutouts, walking tours of Chinatown, art demonstrations and workshops, dessert eating competition, and glimpses of the full harvest moon through scientific telescopes.

California's Cornucopia of Historic Appreciation La Purisima Mission State Historical Park in Lompoc, an hour north of Santa Barbara, offers special Fall

events and scenery that celebrate Central Coast harvest traditions and also give us interesting glimpses into California history that will probably be a part of your kids’ school studies. Harvest Mission Life Day (Sept. 15) invites families to experience a variety of end-ofthe-season harvest and traditional Mission activities from yesteryear, while the Candlelight Tour (Sept. 22) whisks guests back in time to the 1820s on a walking tour through the mission to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of traditional mission life.

Boo!

Christmas may be around the corner, but Halloween is a hands-down favorite for families all over L.A. County. It’s just not Halloween without a jaunt to the Haunted Hayride (losangeleshauntedhayride) in Griffith Park sometime during the month of October for the type of thrills, chills and spooks that can only exist in Hollywood. Amble through decorated trails on a straw seat in an open-air flatbed trailer pulled past costumed characters who dance and sing. Other attractions include mazes with scary characters and strobe lights.

The Fifth Annual Calabasas Film Festival 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 exceptional wines, culinary arts and entertainment. CFF is where the heart of film lives.

THE THRIVING PALEOISTA

CULINARY CREATIONS

COURTESY OF NELL STEPHENSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICOLA BUCK

Nutritious, healing and delicious meals are easily attainable with the help of Paleo expert, Nell Stephenson. She has the ability to transform people’s lives with a focus on mindful eating and developing a program that caters

to each individual. As a nutritionist, chef and healthy lifestyle coach based in Pacific Palisades, Nell helps her clients achieve their goals from the inside out. She has shared her wisdom in the five books on Paleo living that she has written, as well as appearing on the Dr. Oz show.

PAN SEARED WILD SALMON

WITH GREENS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 lb. wild salmon, skin on, cut into two even pieces

• 2 tablespoons duck fat or coconut oil

• 2 cloves garlic (or more) smashed

• 4 cups spinach, washed

• 1 lemon

• handful micro greens, for garnish

DIRECTIONS

1. Pat fish dry with paper towel

2. Heat fat in skillet over medium- high (if it’s smoking- it’s too hot!)

3. Place fish in skillet skin side down and shake pan slightly to avoid sticking

4. Press down on flesh with metal spatula and cook 3-4 minutes- longer if using a thicker type of fishwithout moving to create even, crisp browning

5. When you shake the pan and see the fillet move, you can flip over carefully to avoid tearing skin

6. Use a meat thermometer or preferred level of doneness to gauge how long to cook

7. Remove from pan and place flesh side down on plate under foil

8. Meanwhile, add garlic to hot fat in skillet and cook until browned- one minute or so

9. Add spinach, turn off heat and cover 1 -2 minutes

10. Cut lemon into wedges

11. Plate spinach, followed by fillets, garnished with micro greens and lemon

Pan searing fish is not only quick, it’s incredibly easy! Enjoy crispy, Omega-3 rich skin and a perfectly, slightly rare center by using this recipe, and get ready for a delicious meal in less than 15 minutes!

WHOLE ROASTED CAULIFLOWER

The simplicity of some oil and a bit of roasting can transform any veggie from mundane to magnificent!

INGREDIENTS • 1 whole head organic cauliflower • ½ cup unrefined coconut oil • ½ small lemon, juiced,

plus ½ teaspoon zest • ¼ teaspoon black pepper • 1 cup minced parsley DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 450°F 2. Remove leaves and core cauliflower, leaving head intact, then discard core & put cauliflower head in pan.

Rub coconut oil all

over top of cauliflower 4. Bake until tender in cast iron skillet roughly an hour; checking occasionally to ensure even cooking

Whisk together lemon juice and pepper

Remove from oven and place on serving dish

Garnish with parsley on top

PALEOISTA’S

Nourishing, healing and delicious, but did you know bone broth, served chilled can also serve as the perfect recovery drink after a long workout? If you’ve already transitioned yourself into a fat-burning machine, why insult the temple that is your body with a sugar surge found in all too many recovery drinks? Serve it on ice and enjoy it after a long session in the saddle or on the trail!

INGREDIENTS

• 4 lbs. bones, such as those from cuts of meat high in collagen, like marrow, knuckles and feet (the more variety the merrier! Use up all your leftovers)

• 1 head garlic, cloves separated, smashed and skins removed

• 1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar*

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 4 quarts water

probate

properties *Following a real Paleo diet? Skip the vinegar and sub lemon or lime juice. A Full Suite Of Services To Support Your Needs GERIATRIC CONSULTATIONS • Case management • Safety evaluation • Nutritional education • Medication review & holistic assessment

Roast bones until browned and crispy

Remove, reduce oven to 200°F

DIRECTIONS AGING IN PLACE SPECIALISTS • Aging in place support • Reverse mortgages • Home safety retrofitting • Equity loans CONNECTIVITY/TECHNICAL • Facebook, Instagram & Snapchat • Smart phone assistance • Tablets, computers, Kindles

Preheat oven to 450°F PERSONAL CONCIERGE SERVICES • Organizing / packing / clearing • Staging, design & p roject oversight • Estate sales / auctions / appraisals

Bring to a boil over high heat; reduce and simmer gently

Place in oven and cook at least 12 and up to 24 hours

Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly

Discard solids and strain remainder in a bowl through a colander.

Let stock cool to room temperature, cover & chill

Portion out into serving sizes to suit your use and freeze remainder.

Use within a week or freeze up to 3 months

ST. GERMAIN LIQUEUR, CREATED IN 2007, IS MADE FROM ELDER TREE FLOWERS PICKED IN THE FRENCH COUNTRYSIDE. IT WON THE GRAND GOLD MEDAL AT THE MONDE SELECTION IN 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 AND 2012 AND THE “CHAIRMAN’S AWARD” IN THE LIQUEUR CATEGORY AT THE ULTIMATE SPIRITS CHALLENGE 2010.

St. Germain

• 1 1/2 Vodka

• 3/4 oz Lemon Juice

• 1 oz St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur

• A splash of Sparkling White Wine

Muddle blackberries in the glass, shake the vodka, lemon juice and Elderflower Liqueur in a tin with ice. Pour over the blackberries and top with sparkling white wine.

At Glamour Flooring, we offer a wide array of flooring products and services to beautify your home. Specializing in hardwood flooring and hardwood floor refinishing, we also carry a full range of quality flooring products, including, hardwood,

tile, travertine, wood, granite, slate, marble, laminate, and carpet that will make your home’s floors beautiful. Providing some of the best flooring available, Glamour Flooring is your onestop-home-shop for all your flooring products and services.

Atranquil setting that helps your pet recharge while experiencing a balanced environment. They offer aromatherapy, soothing music, water fountains with fresh water to double as drinking fountains, the indoor daycare is a large living room complete with a couch and fire place. Outside, their play yard is 3000 sq. ft. of grass, trees, climbing rocks and fresh water at every turn.

Pets need mental stimulation as much as they need physical exercise. They help ensure your pet gets the most out of their day with obstacle courses and they work on basic commands (Sit, Stay, Lay down…) and offer a good game of fetch or go swimming! In the Spa, your fur baby will receive a full body massage and blueberry facial with any bathing package!”

The Sit & Stay Pet Resort & Spa

23210 Ventura Blvd, Suite B Woodland Hills, CA 91364 818-940-4063 www.sspetresort.com

This Veterinary Hospital is a new state of the art animal hospital with a clean modern design. They have multiple surgical suites, a full lab, endoscopy, digital x-ray and ultrasound. Their exam rooms are beautiful and they are equipped with a staff that feels like family. “But wait, there’s more!” They also do house calls in a twenty-six foot RV which is outfitted and built to be a fully loaded mobile hospital. They literally pull up to your curb and your pet receives all the medical attention they need without the stressful car ride! It’s very convenient and a comfort for those that don’t travel well.

VETERINARY SERVICES & HOUSE CALLS

Paws & Claws Veterinary Hospital & Mobile Vet 23210 Ventura Blvd, Unit A Woodland Hills, CA 91364 818-346-PETS (7387) www.pcmvet.com

OUR ANIMAL EDITOR AT LARGE, SPANKY THE DONKEY, LOVES GIVING SHOUT-OUTS TO HIS FURRY AND FEATHERED HIDDEN HILLS NEIGHBORS. SO PLEASE SEND YOUR PICS ON OVER TO: LONNA@ LONGVALLEYMEDIA.COM

SPANKY’S PET PICS

KATE THE HAWK VISITS SPANKY

When Spanky lent his name to this feature he never imagined other animals would get the word and come to visit! One morning this past June, Spanky's keeper, Hidden Hills Magazine publisher Lonna Weber, noticed a baby hawk sitting on a wagon in her front yard. It was a fledgling that had fallen out of the nest but had not yet learned to fly. In the week prior, Lonna had lost chickens to coyotes so she decided to try and to keep the baby safe, noting that one in twenty-two fledglings survive these circumstances. For several nights, "Kate," as Lonna had named it, slept safely in the meshed-in garden and by day, with its mother circling above, tried more and more to fly, all the while bonding with Lonna and the other animals. Finally...a safe lift off! Kate still circles the property with its mother and occasionally drops by the patio door to say hi!

HIDDEN HILLS- 2018 SALES TO DATE

5546 Jed Smith Offered at $18,500,000 24025 Hidden Ridge Offered at $15,500,000 (Off Market Sale)

25085 Ashley Ridge Offered at $9,995,000 (Represented Buyer, Off Market Sale)

23847 Long Valley Offered at $6,295,000 (Represented Buyer & Seller) 5550 Bonneville Offered at $6,000,000 (In Escrow)

25045 Ashley Ridge Offered at $6,249,000 24314 Long Valley Offered at $5,500,000 (Represented Buyer, Off Market Sale) 24520 Wingfield Offered at $5,425,000 (In Escrow) 23726 Long Valley Offered at $4,995,000

5545 Dixon Trail Offered at $4,950,000 (Represented Buyer & Seller)

5241 Round Meadow Offered at $4,750,000 (Represented Buyer & Seller, Off Market Sale) 5900 Highridge Offered at $4,200,000 (Off Market Sale)

5382 Scott Robertson Offered at $3,999,000 (Represented Buyer & Seller)

5515 Paradise Valley Offered at $3,100,000 (In Escrow, Representing Buyer & Seller, Off Market Sale)

5716 Jed Smith Offered at $2,695,000

5505 Hoback Glen Offered at $2,895,000 (Off Market Sale) 23616 Long Valley Offered at $2,749,000 (In Escrow)