Hidden Hills Magazine • Summer 2020

As we navigate through this unprecedented time, it was essential to consider how we would continue to service our clients at the highest level. With this in mind, we are proud to announce that Homes To Di For is now part of the exclusive Engel & Völkers network of leading real estate professionals throughout the world. As members of Engel & Völkers Calabasas, we now have the support of an expansive global brand to help you follow your dream, home. If you or someone you know has questions about this new real estate market or how they can achieve their real estate goals during this time, we are here for you. Learn more at homestodiforgroup.evrealestate.com

from

PUBLISHERS

For so many of us, it may not actually "feel" like summer this year. The contrast between kids in school and then released to freedom, the carefree vibe that permeates our days, and even the cook-outs, gatherings and Fourth of July celebrations we look forward to will not be the same. We are a world changed . . . at least for the time being.

What has not changed however is the spirit of this July 4th holiday, a day that celebrates equality and freedom as our inalienable rights as citizens . . . Ideals we all must remember to honor and live by, not only on Independence Day, but every day.

Thank you as always to our advertisers for their support of this community publication. We hope you will venture out safely and support them whenever possible.

Lonna Weber & Joe Bellissimo

Lonna@LongValleyMedia.com

Joe@LongValleyMedia.com

DEBBIE YANUCK

CO- PUBLISHERS

Lonna Weber

Joe Bellissimo

Editor-in-Chief

Joe Bellissimo

Copy Editors

Linda Raznick

Carly Fentress

Advisory Board

Archie E. Hanson Jr.

Linda Raznick

Steve Weber

Inquiries

Advertising: Lonna@Longvalleymedia.com

Editorial: joe@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.

CONTRIBUTORS

GRACIE BELLISSIMO

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.

BARRI WHITTAKER

Barri Whittaker is an equestrian and instructor from Los Angeles, California. She continues her studies today under the tutelage of Sue Wittick in the Rancho District of Glendale. She has trained and taught in six continents, and directed a rescue and riding program in Vang Vieng, Laos. She is passionate about social issues, and delves into cultures and languages around the globe.

Gracie Bellissimo is an aspiring filmmaker and photographer born and raised in Hidden Hills. Pursuing a degree in Cinema at San Francisco State University, Gracie is a true lover of the arts and is always creating her own original content! graciebellissimo.com

KRISTIN LEE

Kristin Lee's love for horses has helped transition her to a become a leading photographer in the equestrian community. She has a BFA in Professional Photography from the Brooks Institute of Photography and has photographed covers for Sidelines, Special Olympics 2015 and more. Kristin focuses on Los Angeles circuit horse shows as well as product, brand and editorial shoots. kristinleephotography.com

SUMMER 2020 features

TOGETHER WE RIDE

The Compton Cowboys bring together members of the equestrian community to ride for peace. 32

FUTURES ACADEMY Discover the private school bringing one-to-one learning to the next level.

HOUSE CALLS

Dr. Daniel Rosen's practice, Calabasas Medical, is reimagining the way medicine is done.

THE AMAZING RAYCE Hidden Hills raised Rayce Aaronson continues to create in the midst of a pandemic. 44

SAFER AT HOME Calabasas' Courtyard Pharmacy wants to be sure our most vulnerable citizens are prescription safe. 56

RELEARNING LEARNING

Synergy Learning Founder Jennifer Lopata offers tips for catching-up on Academics during these difficult times. 48 SHOP LOCAL Shop Local and support our local businesses. Apparel, jewelry, home decor and more!

Brenda Ebrahim (L) and Barri Whittaker, (R) writer of this month's feature, "Together we Ride," at the Compton Peace Ride, June 7th, 2020.

Photo by Kristin Lee.

TOGETHER RIDE we

Written by Barri Whittaker | Photography by Kristin Lee

For the past 10 years I have worked internationally as a professional riding instructor.

To date, I have lived in 12 different countries on 6 continents and had to learn multiple languages in the process. In late 2019, I returned from my last coaching job in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and decided to finally settle in Los Angeles, my hometown. No one could have predicted the year that 2020 has shaped up to be, but I must say I am grateful and so proud to be here in the United States to witness the progress we are making and the methods we are using to be heard, such as through the Compton Cowboys Peace Ride.

I found out about the Compton Cowboys Ride for Peace from my friend, Celeste Moreno, who is also a fellow rider in my Burbank and Glendale Rancho Community. This was the day before it was

scheduled to happen. Upon learning the event was open to riders everywhere, I was determined to join. Why was this so important? Being here for this change is not only moving to me as an equestrian, it is also personal.

I am a black woman who defies any stereotypes placed upon me. There are a wide range of stories that come with this narrative when you choose to live and work overseas. I feel Americans tend to forget that our news is center-stage to the rest of the world where I have lived. Since this movement started, messages of support have flooded in from my jobs in Laos, Ethiopia, Thailand, Micronesia, Singapore, Australia, Malaysia, England and Costa Rica. They seem to understand we are at a crucial stage and ready for positive change. There has been so much to answer for during my travels and I have been pleased to represent myself as a proud American and proud black

Brenda Ebrahim (L) and Barri Whittaker, (R) at the Compton Peace Ride, June 7th, 2020.

woman, bridging the gap between our cultures. I have always had to do that, growing up in the equestrian world. Race relations in the United States is a huge topic of conversation in almost every country I’ve been to. Yet there have been moments when my American perspective interfered with my international experience - like when I landed in New Zealand and thought everyone was racist, but it turned out the “All Blacks” were an actual rugby team. There have also been challenging times in places when, despite my passport, I still had to explain that although I don’t have blonde hair, I’m actually American. In fact, there have been multiple occasions when I had to refer to Barack Obama as an example of black people who are indeed American too!

I have also cried alone, thousands of miles from home every time news of yet another racially unjust murder took place. I held back my emotions so as not to be seen as an "angry black woman." Now, having settled back in my hometown for not even a year, I had the opportunity to express myself clearly. I’d always held back, been reserved. Now I don’t have to cry alone anymore. Now I could find a voice to share my experience. The Ride was a way to bring much overdue attention to a topic that affects me every day in this country, my home. Black Lives Matter! Yes, black people are equestrians. Yes, we are here, and this is what we stand for. Our feelings and our message matter! Let’s ride!

Exhilarated, inspired and flooded by intense emotion, I also realized the responsibilities and details to address. The responsibilities that come with joining a ride like this are much more complicated than a non-equestrian might think. The first consideration is always for our horses. Safety is our primary concern, which means the area and route must be adequate to prevent injury and accidents. More importantly, your horse MUST be

calm and trained to be comfortable in such situations. If I was unable to ride, or if it seemed potential confrontations might make it unsafe to ride, I would hand-walk my mare. We were here to show our support for the RIGHT reasons. This is about peace and equality for all of us.

The other important (and what proved to be the most challenging) issue was transportation for the horses. No, we cannot giddy-up all to Compton. Horses are not vehicles. They don't go that fast on the freeway anyway (even though Wini, the horse I would ride, was a Tennessee Walker, a breed famous for its swift and even gait).

I had to find a horse-hauler or trailer to transport us from Glendale to Compton, so I began what turned out to be a very lengthy process. The calls began. While I would

like to focus more on the positive notes to this experience, I have to admit that there were people within the equestrian community who were dismayed by my request for a haul. In several instances, it became evident that they did not support this cause. Some encounters were actually strangely comical, like when I contacted a hauler named Mr. White and asked if he'd like to trailer horses to Compton to support Black Lives Matter. He was otherwise engaged, but the call was worth it just for the laugh I had.

Ultimately though, out of the dustup this cultural collision created came compassion and enthusiasm from so many others. Another local rider, Eric Gabriel, reached out to me and to my delight, he had heard I was trying to get to the Ride and was also interested in attending with his horse, Romeo. I was overwhelmed that there were other equestrians

from all backgrounds and all colors in my community who supported this. Carla Jo Bailey who boards at my barn, Whispering Willows, had such allegiance to this cause. She sounded the alarm on social media, calling for supporters. The community was coming together to back my mission and get our horses to the Ride or exhaust all resources trying.

Late Saturday night, hours before we would need to wake and prep, our hauling prayers were answered. Our angel came in the form of Brenda Ebrahim from Yucaipa, friend of a friend from my barn who read the message on social media and answered.

I spoke with Brenda in amazement as we coordinated our plans for the next day. We were both in disbelief we had met and it was actually happening.

Our day was finally set in place at 12:54 a.m. Sunday morning. This left 5 hours to sleep before we needed to prep our horses.

Brenda Ebrahim's determination to ride in support of this event was so great that it meant she would have to drive from Yucaipa to Glendale, first pick up Eric's horse, Romeo , and due to his size (akin to a teenage elephant), trailer him to Compton on his own. She’d return to Glendale for our two other horses. This was insane. It was too much to ask. But we didn't have to. She did it, refusing even gas money.

During Brenda's second haul of her horse and mine, we conversed. The modesty of her strength, as she shared her personal battle against racism, sunk in. She is a white woman living in Yucaipa and wanted to support this Ride because

she desires a better world for her children. Once again, I was shocked in such a beautiful way to see the sacrifices people of all colors are willing to make for this cause.

I’d love to list the names of all those who came together to make this Ride happen for us, but it would be endless. Here are a few: Sue Wittick, my trainer and Wini’s owner, who approved of Wini going to Compton because she knew that attending was the right thing to do. Chris Crone for making his barn accessible to us when transporting the horses. Laurie Hutton, Dana Kanstul and Donna Martin for offering so much time and help. Wendy McDaniel for her rasping laugh and sparkling eyes as she cheered us on. So many people in the community who kept me going when so many others were telling me it was impossible.

It reminded me of the stories my parents, who are no longer here, told me about their involvement in the civil rights movement. The friends of all colors who sacrificed their safety and lives to propagate change. I had to hold back tears listening as Brenda drove us through Los Angeles to the Ride. The truth hit me. We are all in this together

We arrived just as the Compton Cowboys drove their horses forward, leading the Ride through town. We speedily unloaded, threw saddles on our horses, and mounted up. Our horses were unshaken by the crowd, music and signs. Honking horns and scurrying press left them unfazed. Even a hovering drone went unnoticed. The horses seemed to feed off the energy in the air, rich with calmness and determination.

The route the Compton Cowboys had planned was direct. Black, brown and white cowboys, grandparents and toddlers, rode alongside low rider cars and a flatbed truck booming out “This Is America.” In total, about 400 riders and a few thousand people marched alongside. The route was not random. From a shopping complex, down residential streets, past the Sheriff's Department to City Hall, we traveled to stand in silent memory of George Floyd and countless other victims of systematic violence. Speakers

started their strength and courage, and poignancy and emotion hung in the air.

The speakers called out: despite all the trauma that has arisen on the road to much needed change, our path was going to be peaceful and just. Here were equestrians from Yucaipa, Sylmar, Moorpark, Burbank, Glendale and as far away as San Diego, joined as brothers and sisters in a message for peace and positive change. Word got around, and the call was received and answered. If we can unite from

so many places, and of so many races on such a higher level, we can certainly meet this challenge head on together.

For all who are reading this in Hidden Hills and beyond and were unable to join in this wonderful experience, know that we rode for you. We represented you and will continue to do so.

We will all ride on together.

Check for special promotions at synergyacademics.com/save

Check for special promotions at synergyacademics.com/save

Check for special promotions at synergyacademics.com/save

Founder, Jennifer Lopata

Founder, Jennifer Lopata

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.

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.

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.

Michael Bloom

“We are thrilled that Michael has joined our Calabasas Office Family. He is an incredible individual that touches the hearts of everyone he encounters. With many years of Real Estate experience in and around Hidden Hills, Michael brings a level of sophistication, knowledge and personal connections to the area that is unmatched by most. We are delighted to welcome Michael to The Agency and are excited to celebrate his growth and success.”

– Emil Hartoonian, Managing Partner and Jason Galardi, Sales Manager San Fernando Valley

A longtime Hidden Hills resident, Michael brings a strong work ethic, genuine love of people and extensive knowledge of Calabasas, Woodland Hills and Hidden Hills. Fluent in Spanish and Japanese, Michael is deeply involved in the community, serving as an Ambassador to the Calabasas Chamber of Commerce, a Board Member for the Foundation for the Las Virgenes Schools and Commissioner of Public Safety Hidden Hills.

Founder and CEO Mauricio Umansky, Calabasas Managing Partner Emil Hartoonian, and San Fernando Valley Sales Manager Jason Galardi are proud to welcome Micheal Bloom to The Agency’s growing team.

FUTURES ACADEMY

Futures Academy is a private school where “. . . education is reimagined to embrace students who learn better outside traditional school models.”

Campus director for the Woodland Hills campus, Lynique Charles, says, “There is nothing wrong

in the way children are taught in school districts now, but what works best for most kids, does not work best for all.” Some learn better visually, while others learn better tactically, and at Futures Academy each child is taught in the manner that best suits his or her learning

WRITTEN BY DEBBIE YANUCK

style. Serving grades 6 through 12, Futures Academy teaches each child in a one-to-one capacity; some work best with projects, others are auditory learners and the teachers study and listen to the students to find out the best way to help them thrive in each subject.

FUTURES ACADEMY HAS

At any given time, each of the Futures Academy campuses holds 100 students. The average day begins at 8 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m., and although the classes are one-to-one, all have lunch at the same time so that there is time to socialize and be with others. There are clubs, field trips, even prom and grad night. Some students are athletes who need a more flexible schedule to allow them to travel with their teams and practice. Others are working--either in the acting field or in another field and their school schedule is modified to work with other projects.

Ms. Charles says, “Often when I meet a student for the first time, his or her head is low, chin down with little to say, but from Day 1 to Week 2, I see growth in that student’s confidence level and the sparkle in his or her eyes says it all as that student stops by my office to say ‘hi’ before the next class. Not everyone works well in the public-school system of one teacher to 30-40 children and Futures Academy offers a different way for students to learn.”

When new students arrive on campus for the first time, “ambassadors” (seasoned students) greet them and introduce themselves, take them to lunch with other students and bring them into the fold. Ms. Charles says, “. . . skill sets will come with each child, but most importantly, we rescue hope. . . and it is evident as the student blossoms in the academy environment.”

The school is open year-round and additionally has a part-time population who come from surrounding schools. Many public-school students with busy schedules take advantage of taking an AP class, a math

class, or any other class during the summer to help lighten their load during the school year. Some public-school students come after their normal school day to Futures Academy in the afternoon to take AP classes, a Statistics class, a Chemistry class, and/or any other class where they receive a guided learning.

Students begin to work with college counselors during their junior year and 94% of Futures Academy students go off to top colleges of their choice. Ms. Charles says, “Our goal is to make each individual aware of his or her strengths and to put that student on the path to a confident and successful future.”

WESTLAKE VILLAGE

30700 RUSSELL RANCH ROAD, SUITE 180, WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91362 (866) 590-7549

WOODLAND HILLS 21800 OXNARD STREET, SUITE 220, WOODLAND HILLS, CA 91367 (866) 590-7549

Futures4u.com

A MEDICAL PRACTICE REIMAGINED AND PERSONALIZED.

DANIEL ROSEN, MD CALABASAS MEDICINE

Adoctor’s appointment often creates anxiety and aggravation: the difficulty in scheduling a prompt appointment, the long wait times in a crowded waiting room, and the rushed visits with an overbooked doctor.

To counter this, Dr. Danny Rosen opened his office in Calabasas to create an environment that is the exact opposite of the above. He caters to his patients without rushing, makes it simple to set up sameday appointments, and the waiting room is inviting and uncrowded. A normal practice has approximately 2,000 patients, while Dr. Rosen caps his concierge medicine practice at 400. For an annual fee, he is available 24/7 and he describes his state-of-the-art office as “...an urgent care center meets the ER...” With an EKG, a digital x-ray, the ability to perform cardiac stress tests, and a full lab, the office provides whole body care in one peaceful place.

After Residency, Dr. Rosen wanted to “...heal the world and save everyone...” This remains his goal, but he

savors the ability to spend time with his patients, travels to their homes if they cannot come to him, and supplies them vaccines and medicines all at his office without sending them out to another appointment or a pharmacy.

“I don’t mind the phone calls,” he says, “because I

his community. His concierge practice permits both.

The smaller practice also lets him offer a more personalized, holistic treatment regimen that often helps avoid the need for medications through diet modifications and changes in physical activity. If a patient needs to be hospitalized, Dr. Rosen guides the process and works with the doctors on the hospital staff to continue their personalized care.

BY COMBINING ‘OLD SCHOOL MEDICINE’ WITH MODERN TECHNOLOGY, DR. ROSEN’S PRACTICE IS ONE WHERE THE PATIENT IS NO LONGER A CHART. . .

know their history and I’m able to treat them with full knowledge and attention.”

With over 10 years in medicine, many of those years working in the ICU, Dr. Rosen is confident in his abilities as a practitioner and a diagnostician. The turning point in his vision of how he wanted to work in medicine was when his now two-yearold was born; he wanted to have time with his family and to be an involved member of

The current pandemic has highlighted the benefits of Dr. Rosen’s smaller practice business model where he sees patients through structured scheduling that eliminates overlapping appointment times and offers always-available same-day appointments. He also has Covid-19 testing kits.

By combining ‘old school medicine’ with modern technology, Dr. Rosen’s practice is one where the patient is no longer a chart with a vague image of a face and personality. His practice size enables him to know each individual and allows for better care and guidance.

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AT THE AGE OF 19, THE WORLD AND ALL OF ITS POSSIBILITIES SHOULD BE OPENING UP TO US; BUT, WITH A PANDEMIC LIMITING THOSE POSSIBILITIES, RAYCE AARONSON, DECIDED TO USE HIS CREATIVITY TO PUSH ON AND FLOURISH.

AMAZING RAYCE THE

AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRACIE BELLISSIMO

Rayce steps into the glowing afternoon light that falls over the Spring Valley Arena, his kaleidoscopic green eyes meticulously scanning the park for a well-lit spots. “This will work,”he confirms. “Let’s just hope the courts are open.” Within the 10 minutes we had been together, we

were already on our second location in an attempt to find a neighborhood location to shoot photos in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Hidden Hills Community Center Tennis Courts, to our surprise, were still locked up, with Rayce having planned every detail down to his outfit to match the color scheme of the tennis court . . . just a tiny glimpse

into his conscientious creativity. We wander down the path and, lo and behold, he pushes the gate to the court open with effortless cool and ease. “We’re lucky this is even open” he grins, and I agree. Almost instantaneously, he finds a place and begins to pose for a shot, practically taking over my job as photographer, but I don’t mind. How can I, when

WORDS

Acrylic paintings by Rayce Aaronson. The doberman AT LEFT was created for a friend as a gift. AT RIGHT is a painting of one of Rayce's inspirations in the realm of fashion; Bloody Osiris. The look and vibe of the two pieces are an early style guide for Rayce's in-the-works streetwear line.

"I TEND TO BE PROUD OF ALL OF MY PROJECTS BECAUSE I POUR MY ENTIRE HEART INTO EVERYTHING I MAKE."

RAYCE AARONSON

his creative vision is coming to life right before my very eyes?

For as long as he can remember, budding creator and Hidden Hills native Rayce Aaronson has been drawn to the arts, and while most 19-year-olds would likely be losing their minds in lock-down, Rayce has constantly been pushing his own creative limits. “Growing up in Hidden Hills has definitely impacted me as an individual and creative,” he explains. “I have made invaluable connections here that would have been extremely hard to achieve anywhere else.” His late father, Craig Aaronson, was a prominent power in the music industry and his mother had always encouraged Rayce to tap into his creative side. “My parents were a big part of my artistic upbringing . . . they were definitely ahead of the curve,” he recalls. “They signed me up for art and film classes by the time I was in 3rd grade.” From there, he was able to grow in art and experience. “I’ve always been drawn to the fact that art and filmmaking can allow you to take a vision or idea — one that resides in the inner workings of your brain —

and bring it into reality where that vision or idea can live for others to experience.” Rayce has been seeing this statement to absolute fruition. In early 2019, Rayce capitalized on the newness of the app, Tik Tok, in order to build a following he could share his creative work with. By creating short 10-to-60 second video clips of himself, he amassed a large following in a short amount of time. “TikTok has definitely helped me expand my platform in huge ways in a very short amount of time,” Rayce enthuses. “The way TikTok’s algorithm is set up allows for large numbers of people to be exposed to what I am doing, so when I started getting really good feedback on my posts I thought to myself, ‘Whoa, this is a tool that I should definitely use to my advantage’.” Rayce’s success is now carrying over from Tik Tok to his Instagram, opening up a whole other realm of opportunities for the budding artist. “I constantly have clothing brands trying to get me to advertise their clothing or modeling agencies hitting me up to come in. Honestly, the most useful thing that has come to me from all of this is the connections I’ve made

AT RIGHT: Stills from one of Rayce's recent projects, a music video he directed for Lexi Jayde's "If I really love you," in which he also costarred.

BELOW: Rayce onlocation in the Santa Monica Mountains, behind the camera, where he is often most comfortable.

. . . I’ve met some really great people who can help me flourish as a creative and that is what is most important to me.”

A very recent connection Rayce made online was with social media starlet, Lexi Jayde. Having just begun her music career, and quite successfully at that with over 1,500,000 fans, Rayce was able go on to direct, edit and star in Lexi’s music video, “If I Really Love You.” “I tend to be proud of all of my projects because I pour my entire heart into everything I make. I think the music video that I just did for Lexi is really cool . . . it’s also the first music video I have ever shot for someone.”

Rayce’s expressive abilities, however, are not limited to film and modeling. He continues to paint and even has his own clothing line in the works. “In terms of other mediums, I am working on launching a streetwear brand this summer. I can’t say much about it right now except that I’m extremely excited and everything will be 100% designed by me.”

In spite of the COVID-19 pandemic, Rayce continues to

work towards his ultimate goal of owning a brand and store where he can distribute the merchandise and art that he has created. “A huge driving force for me is definitely my fans’ support. It makes me so happy to see that people actually enjoy looking at what I create. The amount of love I receive is honestly crazy for me to conceptualize sometimes, but in a good way. Getting hate is cool too because it reminds me that I constantly have to be improving myself if I want to reach the top.”Especially in a time where teenagers may feel disconnected from the people they would normally see in day-to-day life, they instead are able to not only find entertainment in Rayce’s creations, but are also lucky to grow alongside him. “I just want to be remembered as someone who inspired others to do what they love. If I change art or filmmaking in any way during this process, it will just be a cherry on top.”

(818) 271-1233

(818) 271-1233

Milla@millapariserrealestate.com DRE #02006267

(818) 271-1233 Milla@millapariserrealestate.com DRE #02006267 Hidden_Hills_Spring_2020 - JOE FINALIZE

Milla@millapariserrealestate.com DRE #02006267 Rodeo Realty Inc. does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the property provided by the seller. This is not intended as a solicitation if your property is currently listed. Rodeo Realty Marketing Department.

guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the property provided by the intended as a solicitation if your property is currently listed. Rodeo Realty Marketing Department.

Milla@millapariserrealestate.com DRE #02006267 guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the property provided by the intended as a solicitation if your property is currently listed. Rodeo Realty Marketing Department.

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COURTYARD PHARMACY HELPS KEEP VULNERABLE INDIVIDUALS SAFER at HOME

One of life’s unsettling challenges arising from the COVID19 is how to manage the isolation so many vulnerable individuals at home are facing. It has created a barrier between generations living apart, along with their support systems, and also for many, added worrisome hesitance and concern over the possibility of placing our elderly and/or ailing loved ones into managed care environments. Left isolated, these vulnerable individuals are now more likely to bear the responsibility of organizing their medications and taking them correctly. Decreased dexterity and eyesight along with stress and mental confusion can make this a tall order for them, opening the door to potentially dangerous mistakes. This danger is compounded by the fact that some may be reluctant to seek medical care because adding contacts

between high-risk individuals and the outside world increases the risk of exposure to the virus.

One local pharmacy has made it a point to ensure that all of these challenges, despite the pandemic, can be overcome. Courtyard Pharmacy, located in Calabasas, specializes in creating and implementing for each patient a monthly Medication Calendar Card System. Via this innovative approach, all of a patient’s medications are packaged into labeled/color-coded multi-dose “compliance cards,” organized by the precise day of the week and daily dosage. The pharmacy prepares the cards on a monthly cycle and delivers them to the patient’s home. They can also accommodate shorter cycles for patients with frequent therapy changes.

Courtyard Pharmacy makes the set-up process easy for patients and family: simply tell the pharmacist

precisely what medications the patient takes and the name(s) of the prescribing physician(s). The pharmacy does the rest, calling the doctor(s), obtaining the prescriptions and reconciling any discrepancies. Once the prescriptions and administration protocol have been confirmed, the pharmacy bills the patient’s insurance for the medications, packages them into the Calendar Cards, and delivers to the patient’s home. The pharmacy also takes care of any therapy changes between the cycle dates. The patients and their family can all rest assured there is a medication expert on the team to take care of any problems that may arise.

If you or anyone you know can benefit from this patient-centric system, call Courtyard Pharmacy and ask about Monthly Calendar Cards and other patient compliance assistance programs that they offer.

HOW CALENDAR CARDS PROTECT VULNERABLE INDIVIDUALS - A CASE STUDY

Mr and Mrs Smith are happy living at home but as they have gotten older, it has gotten progressively more challenging. Mr Smith takes care of Mrs Smith, who has heart failure and takes 8 different medications throughout the day. Lately it has gotten harder for Mr. Smith to organize the medications for his wife and he needs some help. The couple places a very high value on continuing to live independently, hence their family is looking for solutions on how to support and help them without over-exposing them to the outside world in order to protect them from the virus that causes COVID-19.

Courtyard Pharmacy verifies and organizes all of Mrs. Smith’s medications and packages them into 4 different Medication Calendar Cards:

YELLOW Morning card that contains all her morning doses WHITE Midday card that contains two lunch-time meds BLUE Evening card that contains all her bed-time doses

GREEN “As needed” card for the “booster” diuretic dose that she only takes on occasion her legs are very swollen

All Mr and Mrs Smith need to do is open the bubble labeled with the corresponding date and time, take out the medication and take them exactly as prescribed by her doctor(s).

FACTORS THAT CAN MAKE AN INDIVIDUAL MORE VULNERABLE TO MEDICATION ERRORS INCLUDE:

• Poor or fragile health.

• Forgetfulness, confusion, or a feeling of being overwhelmed.

• Taking multiple medications.

• Fragmented care with multiple providers, pharmacies, and/or multiple refill dates.

• Struggling to organize and maintain medications.

• High-risk conditions or medications (e.g. blood thinners, heart medications).

• Recent changes in medication regimens.

Pure Builders, Inc.’s primary goal is to exceed all of our clients’ expectations by providing quality construction and excellent customer service by sharing over Two Decades of dedicated knowledge and experience and to retain lifelong repeat clientele.

Pure Builders, Inc.’s primary goal is to exceed all of our clients’ expectations by providing quality construction and excellent customer service by sharing over Two Decades of dedicated knowledge and experience and to retain lifelong repeat clientele.

KEEPSAKE USB PORTABLE TURNTABLE - $159 Enjoy your albums and record them in digital audio all on this Keepsake USB Portable Turntable. This modern vintage record player allows those old albums to be recorded in a digital audio format for high quality sound on a smaller, more modern compact disc. However, if you still want to enjoy your albums old style, then Crosley's Keepsake offers a 3-speed turntable for your listening enjoyment.

MADEWORN ROLLING STONES ARMY JACKET $595 & VINTAGE DESIGNER UPCYCLED NECKLACES $330 each

With a casual loose fit, the Madeworn The Rolling Stones Army Jacket comes with a fun mix of patches for that vintage rocker vibe. We love this paired with our Vintage Designer Upcycled Necklaces made from authentic Gucci & Chanel buttons and charms. Chic, fun to layer and raises the style game with almost any outfit.

THE

CHAUTAUQUA

BENCH - $2,695 has an upholstered top cushion and a hand finished brass base with custom patina. The Chautauqua Bench is part of the ‘Made by Shoppe’ collection, designed by Amber Lewis, handmade in Los Angeles, and exclusive to our Shoppe. The Chautauqua Bench can be made in any of our ‘Made by Shoppe’ line fabrics, vintage textiles, or a customer’s own fabric. The Chautauqua Bench is featured on Amber’s book cover, Made For Living, set to release on October 27, 2020.

ECLIPSE DAYBED

THIS EXCLUSIVE DAY BED IS SKILLFULLY UPHOLSTERED USING THE HIGHEST QUALITY MARINE-GRADE SYNTHETIC LEATHER ONTO A HAND-WOVEN, LIGHTWEIGHT, AND POWDER-COATED ALUMINUM FRAME. THE FIBER IS UV RESISTANT AND COOL TO THE TOUCH EVEN IN HOT WEATHER, AND THE RESIN WICKER IS TEXTURED IN APPEARANCE AND REQUIRES MINIMAL MAINTENANCE. ESTATE DOUBLE

THE GRACE HOME COLLECTION©

AMANDA CABINET is crafted of walnut and features ribbed antique mirror door fronts. This custom piece is hand crafted in Southern California and can be made in any size or finish. Price is $8380 as shown.

11632 Barrington Ct, Los Angeles, CA 90049 (310) 476-7176 gracehomefurnishings.com

& TULIPS

CANE DINING CHAIR

Seat Height (in): 18 Dimensions (in): 21W X 24D X 35H

Weight (lbs): 35 Material: Teak Available Finish: Black or  Teak Fabric: Caning Price $595

BIANCA will be your go-to top all summer long. She's lightweight and can be styled with just about anything for an effortless, chic look. She's available in both black and white. $55

CARRIE is your classic tank top, in your new favorite color. Lightweight and ribbed, she's perfect for dressing up or down and anything in between. She's available in tan, black and white. $50

DARRICK RAINEY

Untitled America, 2016 Silver Archival PaperMuseum Quality 25” x 36” $2,200

FILS FRENCH MATCHSTRIKER

This unique match strike (or pyrogène in French) is a reproduction of those found throughout late 19th and early 20th century Europe. $38

outer beauty

outer beauty

landscape design services for all of your outdoor needs.

landscape design services for all of your outdoor needs.

Design Build, Estate Maintenance Services, Outdoor Lighting, Water conservative irrigation systems, Specimen Landscape installations and more.

Design Build, Estate Maintenance Services, Outdoor Lighting, Water conservative irrigation systems, Specimen Landscape installations and more.

RELIABLE QUALITY

RELIABLE QUALITY

We are a reliable company that wants to earn your business. We show up when we say we will.

We are a reliable company that wants to earn your business. We show up when we say we will.

Our hands on approach with our clients gives them the security knowing we have their interest above all.

Our hands on approach with our clients gives them the security knowing we have their interest above all.

CLEAN

CLEAN

Our maintenance services will show when we are done with our service visit. Your property is ready for entertaining.

Our maintenance services will show when we are done with our service visit. Your property is ready for entertaining.

Exterior Designs & Landscape Construction Inc. www.edlcinc.com • (818) 274-0180 • CSLB # 851292

Exterior Designs & Landscape Construction Inc. www.edlcinc.com • (818) 274-0180 • CSLB # 851292

we build long-term relationships.

we dont just build for clients, we build long-term relationships.

RE-LEARNING LEARNING

WITH THE STATE OF THE FALL SEMESTER IN FLUX, SUMMER IS AN OPPORTUNE TIME TO CONTINUE TO ADJUST AND MAKE UP FOR SOME PRECIOUS LOST GROUND.

WRITTEN BY JENNIFER LOPATA

Perhaps no other closure affected families’ lives as severely during the coronavirus quarantine as the interruption of children’s education.

With schools throughout the nation abruptly shutting their doors in March, students were forced to continue their school year at home, being taught by their teachers online each day and working either independently or with their parents to complete their assignments. While some students were able to adjust to “virtual learning,” many others struggled with this new form of

education. The Wall Street Journal described one parent’s concern, noting that her elementary school daughters were bored during chaotic Zoom classes and seemed to lose interest in important academic skills such as writing. Education professionals warn that students risk being up to a year behind in some subjects, such as math, when they return to school.

As parents step in to supplement their children’s virtual learning, they are coping with their own anxiety and stress surrounding the current situation: balancing work with a newly hectic

home life, facing loss of jobs or health care, and worrying about their family’s well-being. Both parental exhaustion and a lack of structure for students leave everyone feeling a bit overwhelmed.

Summer, however, provides a good time to remedy some of the loss of learning many students have experienced as a result of the abrupt shutdown of their schools and the difficulty of transitioning to virtual learning. While Southern California summers usually include summer camps, family vacations, beach days, amusement parks and so on, we will likely have to

curb or forgo many of these activities due to continued shutdowns that look to be extended (at least to some extent) into July or August. Many families hope to take advantage of summer programs or opportunities for their students that will help them grow the academic areas that they may feel were compromised, as with every challenge comes a new opportunity for growth.

Schools, camps and other educationrelated companies are adjusting their normal summer programming to meet the moment. For instance, many school districts are offering their regular summer school programs online rather than in person. Upcoming SAT and ACT tests will be offered online as well until further notice. Summer camps are scrambling to adjust, with some being canceled altogether and others being shifted to online or limited inperson sessions with fewer campers and increased safety measures. Tutoring and

educational assistance companies plan to continue providing their tutoring and test prep services via Zoom or other remote services. For example, Lopata notes that Synergy Academics plans to offer a remote summer enrichment program that is designed to engage students by providing educational and extracurricular activities via small group Zoom calls. Offerings will cover a wide range of subjects, including math, reading, writing, art and college essay writing.

Summer 2020 in SoCal will surely be quite different than what Angelenos are used to, but the slower pace and inevitable adjustments provide an excellent opportunity for children to regain some of the learning loss that resulted from the interruption to their school year. Let’s make the best of it!

SYNERGY ACADEMICS 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.

SPANKY’S PET PICS

MEET FANNY

Fanny is a 6-Year-old Australian pigeon, rose breasted cockatoo, or Galah (Aussie name).

She was purchased by Hidden Hills resident Jen Zuiker at a very young age she instantly bonded with the family. Jen says that they are really good first

large birds to get being they have HUGE personalities, but they do demand a ton of attention and tend to be loud squawkers. Fanny loves to dance around and the more time that is put-in to teaching her the more she is beginning to learn other tricks.

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

PHOTO BY JEN ZUIKER

Dana Olmes & Jeff Biebuyck

747.888.0508

Dana Olmes & Jeff Biebuyck

747.888.0508

danaandjeff@compass.com

danaandjeff@compass.com

danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com

Tomer & Isidora Fridman 310.776.6117 info@thefridmangroup.com thefridmangroup.com

danaandjeffluxuryhomes.com

DRE# 00944676 / 01383921

DRE# 00944676 / 01383921

Tomer & Isidora Fridman 310.776.6117 info@thefridmangroup.com thefridmangroup.com

DRE# 01750717 / 01192964

DRE# 01750717 / 01192964

A Utopian retreat nestled in the private enclave of hidden hills

Developed by: @legacyestates_la