Hidden Hills Community Register • Febuary 2022

FEBRUARY EVENTS

A “MAGICAL” REUNION

MALIBU WINES’ NEARBY OUTPOST

HOW TO BAKE A HEAVENLY PREACHER CAKE THE CORONADO BUTTERFLY PRESERVE

GETAWAY TO CASA DEL MAR

818.644.1477

LIC.

6 BEDS | 8 BATHS | 9,900 SQ. FT. | 1 ACRE LOT REPRESENTED SELLER

5 BEDS | 3 BATHS | 4,100 SQ. FT. | 1 ACRE LOT REPRESENTED SELLER

5716 JED SMITH ROAD | HIDDEN HILLS | $9,999,500

5510 JED SMITH ROAD | HIDDEN HILLS | $4,000,000 DANIELLE.PERETZ@THEAGENCYRE.COM

5 BEDS | 3.5 BATHS | 4,500 SQ. FT. REPRESENTED BUYERS

3 BEDS | 3 BATHS | 3,000 SQ. FT. REPRESENTED BUYERS

MONDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY:

MONDAY:

TUESDAY:

Munchie Monday (15% o all edibles)

Munchie Monday (15% o all edibles)

TUESDAY: WEDNESDAY:

Tincture Tuesday (15% o all tinctures)

Tincture Tuesday (15% o all tinctures)

Vape Cart Wednesday (15% o all cartridges)

WEDNESDAY:

THURSDAY:

THURSDAY:

FRIDAY:

FRIDAY:

Vape Cart Wednesday (15% o all cartridges)

Thirsty Thursday (15% o all drinks)

Thirsty Thursday (15% o all drinks)

Flower Friday (15% o all flower)

Flower Friday (15% o all flower)

SATURDAY:

SATURDAY:

SUNDAY:

Sunday Funday (15% o all pre-rolls)

Shatterday (15% o all wax) 7379

Sunday Funday (15% o all pre-rolls)

SUNDAY: WWW.ATRIUMTOPANGA.COM (818) 810-7379 IG: @THEATRIUMSTORE

WWW.ATRIUMTOPANGA.COM (818) 810-7379 IG: @THEATRIUMSTORE

Shatterday (15% o all wax) 7379

HIDDEN HILLS

HIDDEN HILLS

BELL CANYON

BELL CANYON

EXPERIENCE IS PRICELESS

“As a resident of Hidden Hills for more than 40 years, I have a unique understanding of how our community, and the homes in it, has evolved into something almost beyond imagination. There is an intangible here within our gates that ads value to anyone looking to redefine their lifestyle and become part of this great and ongoing story. I love telling that story, and helping people to understand what it means to live here, and I love being able to communicate the potential of every home.

THANK YOU TO MY LONG-TIME NEIGHBORS FOR PUTTING THEIR TRUST AND CONFIDENCE IN ME.

AGENCY CALABASAS WELCOMES Michael Bloom

It is the greatest of compliments when those who have known you the longest believe wholeheartedly in what you can accomplish.”

Umansky, Calabasas Managing Partner Emil Hartoonian, and San Fernando Galardi are proud to welcome Micheal Bloom to The Agency’s growing team.

has joined our Calabasas Office Family. He is an incredible individual that he encounters. With many years of Real Estate experience in and around level of sophistication, knowledge and personal connections to the area

We are delighted to welcome Michael to The Agency and are excited to celebrate his growth and success.”

Managing Partner and Jason Galardi, Sales Manager San Fernando Valley

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

Michael Bloom Michael.Bloom@TheAgencyRE.com

818.207.2088

LIC. # 01188440

18

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS

20

FOOD TRUCK ROUNDUP

Rescheduled: Equestrian vaulting & Winter Social. Lots of mobile yumminiess coming to the community center this February.

22

AN UNLIKELY REUNION

How Hidden Hills native Dr Allison Tashnek reunited with a pony she lost touch with years and years ago.

28

MALIBU WINES

Hop in the car and drive ten minutes to a true hidden gem featuring world class wine as well as specialties from a variety of local vendors.

32

RESIDENT RECIPES

Try out this irresistibly delicious cake rooted in Southern tradition.

36

MOSQUITO SEASON

As the weather wams up, prevent these nasty little suckers from causing a ruckus.

40

FEELING THOSE BUTTERFLIES

Experience the natural wonder of the monarch butterfly migration.

43

CASA DEL MAR

Add this historic hotel on Santa Monica’s most stunning, iconic beach to your list of local getaways!

PUBLISHED BY YOUR NEIGHBORS EXCLUSIVELY FOR OUR COMMUNITY

The Hidden Hills Register and Resource Guide is published by long-time friends and residents Lonna Weber and Joe Bellissimo along with the help and involvement of many of our neighbors. Produced each and every month and sent exclusively to Hidden Hills homes, this magazine is dedicated to shining a positive light on the people, issues, events and interests of our community.

Only through the generous support of our advertisers are we able to provide this publication to our neighbors free of charge and continually hire residents young and old to fill these pages with their creative contributions.

As always, we are here to tell your story and the stories that are uniquely “Hidden Hills,” so please reach out any time you have an idea or would like to get involved.

SUPPORTING BUSINESSES

This community publication is created exclusively for you and all of our Hidden Hills neighbors and is made possible with the generous support of these local businesses.

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

MARK & SARA SHEVIN (PG. 1)

DANIELLE PERETZ (PG. 4)

MILLA PARISER (PG. 9)

JASON & MELISSA IMPROTA (PG. 21)

LISA MORIARTY (PG. 13)

MICHAEL BLOOM (PG. 14)

DAVID SALMANSON (PG. 26)

DANA OLMES & JEFF BIEBUYCK (INSIDE BACK COVER)

ANIMAL CARE

ALLIE TASHNEK, DVM (PG. 10)

START RESCUE (PG. 46)

HEALTH/WELLNESS/ BEAUTY

ATRIUM (pg. 6)

COURTYARD PHARMACY (pg. 33)

COMPLETE HEALTH DENTISTRY (PG. 34)

DINING

LOVI’S DELI (PG. 12)

RIB RANCH BBQ (PG. 38)

WINE & SPIRITS

AGOURA WINE (PG. 45)

HOME SERVICES

BOTTEGA LEGNA/CONEJO HARDWOODS (pg.2 & 31)

MURRE CLEANERS (pg. 16)

UNIVERSAL KITCHEN & APPLIANCE CENTER (PG. 11)

HANGER CORPORATION (PG. 39)

THE BABY GURU (PG. 39)

LIGHTSCAPING BY DESIGN (pg. 42)

SUN FIRE DEFENSE (pg. 35)

LEGACY LANDSCAPE SERVICES (pg. 37)

CONEJO HARDWOODS (23)

FINANCIAL SERVICES

UBS FINANCIAL SERVICES (pg, 19)

AUTOMOTIVE ROVERS ELITE (pg, 39)

EDUCATION

SYNERGY ACADEMICS (pg. 8)

JEWELRY/ART/ LUXURY

BEN BRIDGE JEWELERS (Back Cover)

COME AND CHILL AT THE 2022 HIDDEN HILLS WINTER SOCIAL

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26 TH

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

The Hidden Hills Winter Social is Coming to Town!!!

Pull out your scarves, gloves & sled because there’s a blizzard coming to town! Join your neighbors for a night of fun as the Parks and Recreation Committee hosts their annual Winter Social in its newly reinvigorated format that features fun for kids AND adults!

CHILDREN will be surprised and amazed when they get a glimpse of real snow in Hidden Hills. While they are engaged with Snow Sledding, a Snowman

THE HIDDEN HILLS FARMERS MARKET

Bounce House, an Arctic Plunge Slide, Lazer Tag and a Snowboard Simulator.

ADULTS can warm their bodies with Hot Muddled Wine at the Wine Garden & Food Trucks

(see pg. 21). Hip Hop Violinist

Josh Vietti will entertain the residents with a performance that infuses Pop, R&B, Classical and Hip-Hop.

Tickets available at www.hiddenhills.org.

EVERY TUESDAY FROM 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM THIS IS A NEWLY RESCHEDULED DATE

The Farmers Market is every Tuesday at the new times of 2pm - 6pm due to daylight savings. The Farmers Market will now have activities to keep the kids busy with “We Rock Spectrum Agoura Hills” and have adults rocking while they shop with great music from “DJ Fusion.”

EQUESTRIAN VAULTING EVENT

SATURDAY, MARCH 5 TH

RESCHEDULED FROM SATURDAY, JANUARY 29 TH CONTACT COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION FOR FINAL DETAILS

Come by the Spring Valley Arena on March 5, 2022 for an Equestrian Vaulting Event! Presented by the Hidden Hills Pony Club and the Equestrian Services Committee. Call for details or RSVP to 818/ 2276657

Advice for the life you lead

Advice. Beyond investing.

You have a vision for how you want to live for today, tomorrow and beyond. I start by asking the right questions to uncover what’s most important, and then work with you to create a plan to help you pursue it. Along the way, I offer advice that addresses every aspect of your financial life, at every stage of your life. It’s what we call: Advice. Beyond investing.

For some of life’s questions, you’re not alone. Together we can find an answer.

The Davis Group

UBS Financial Services Inc.

3011 Townsgate Road, Suite 300 Westlake Village, CA 91361

805-367-3680

844-892-2438

Stephen W. Davis, CIMA® Managing Director–Wealth Management Senior Portfolio Manager

805-367-3680

stephen.w.davis@ubs.com

advisors.ubs.com/davisboston

Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors list is comprised of approximately 5,200 financial advisors. It was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to measure factors such as quality of practice, industry experience, compliance record, assets under management (which vary from state to state) and revenue. Neither UBS Financial Services Inc. nor its employees pay a fee in exchange for these ratings. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, UBS Financial Services Inc. offers investment advisory services in its capacity as an SEC-registered investment adviser and brokerage services in its capacity as an SEC-registered broker-dealer. Investment advisory services and brokerage services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate arrangements. It is important that clients understand the ways in which we conduct business, that they carefully read the agreements and disclosures that we provide to them about the products or services we offer. For more information, please review the PDF document at ubs.com/relationshipsummary. CIMA® is a registered certification mark of the Investment Management Consultants Association® in the United States of America and worldwide. © UBS 2021. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. CJ-UBS-1150631243 Exp.: 09/30/2022

FOOD TRUCKS AT THE COMMUNITY CENTER

ORDER AHEAD ONLINE ONLY

...up to 24 hours in advance and select your pick up time at StreetFoodFinder.com/Hidden Hills. No walk ups.

VIVACE PIZZA

Tuesday, Feb 1st, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Tuesday, Feb 8th, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Saturday, Feb 26th, 5:00pm to 8:00pm

Made with 200+ year old sourdough starter, 100% organic flour, and baked in a hand-made woodfired oven, Vivace has raised the bar for pizza trucks in Los Angeles and beyond.

PACIFICO CHARBROILED FISH

Thursday, Feb 3rd, 4:00pm - 8:00pm

Pacifico Charbroiled Fish offers a variety of charbroiled seafood dishes. On the menu, look for the charbroiled salmon burrito, the charbroiled shrimp taco or Cajun salmon with French fries and salsa.

Made with 200+ year old sourdough starter, 100% organic flour, and baked in a handmade woodfired oven, Vivace has raised the bar for pizza trucks in Los Angeles and beyond.

KHUNYAI THAI

Thursday, Feb 17th, 4:00pm to 8:00pm

Traditional Thai kitchen cuisine inspired by “Grandma’s cooking”. Made with truly autentic and declisious ingredients, you are sure to crave Khunyai until they visit Hidden Hills again.

Thursday, Feb 10th, 4:00pm - 8:00pm

Serving the greater Los Angeles area, Ohana Hibachi specializes in high quality, locally sourced, organic Japanese meats and vegetables. With a team consisting of over two decades worth of sing premiere ingredients

PINCH OF FLAVOR ASIAN FUSION, MEXICAN

Saturday, Jan 22nd, 5:00pm to 8:00pm

Combining Los Angeles style Mexican food with asian flavors, every meal from Pinch of Flavor is made with passion. This top caterer has items ranging from breakfast burritos to lobster nachos to vegan veggie bowls to locally caught ceviche.

AT THE 2022 HIDDEN HILLS WINTER SOCIAL

SEE PAGE 18 FOR DETAILS

RICHEEZE MELTS

Saturday, Feb 26th, 5:00pm to 8:00pm Richeeze melts are homemade, rich in flavor, and awesome to the last bite.

Saturday, Feb 26th, 5:00pm to 8:00pm

Made with 200+ year old sourdough starter, 100% organic flour, and baked in a hand-made woodfired oven, Vivace has raised the bar for pizza trucks in Los Angeles and beyond.

Saturday, Feb 26th, 5:00pm to 8:00pm

A real sweet treat coming to Hidden Hills! Choose your donut, topped with your choice of Thrifty brand ice cream, and finish it off with your choice of toppings!

OHANA HIBACHI dinner

LA DONUT dinner

An Unlikely Reunion

SHE was raised in Hidden Hills...our own Dr. Allison

“Allie” Tashnek, DVM

WE are 21-plus-year Hidden Hills residents and Santa Ynez ranch owners. Rob and Linda Raznick, the unlikely middle players in this who would’ve thunk” miracle story.

Written by Linda Raznick

SHE was born and raised in Toronto, Canada. Treasured next door Santa Ynez ranch neighbor, Dana Harrison, water treatment technology US patent holder and founder of AQUEL Water.

Dr. Allie moved to Hidden Hills when she was two years old. Around age eight, she began riding lessons and by age 13 she was competitively riding. When Allie turned 17, she and her family started searching for a new horse; her previous horse needed to be retired. She was looking for a horse to move up with as she was showing amateur Hunter/ Jumpers.

In early 2007, Allie and her family imported “Magico” from Argentina. At the time, she was riding at Far West Farms. Magico had some “behavioral issues”—rearing, bucking and kicking out . . . but she loved the horse and felt it seemed like those vices could be resolved with additional training.

During Spring 2007, Allie was atop Magico on the flat in the arena; she looked behind her when someone called out her name. At that

moment, Magico started bucking and Allie lost her balance. She fell off. Allie hit her shoulder and the side of her head on the ground. Initially, she says, she’d started to black out. They called 911. Allie was carried out on a backboard in front of her family (including her elderly grandmother) and taken to the ER. She had been bruised but also separated her left shoulder (tore all the ligaments, so the bones were now separated). This meant Allie could not ride, or do much of anything, for at least three months.

While Allie was in recovery, Magico was sent through multiple trainers and programs in the hopes of getting his behavioral issues under control. Magico was also seen by an equine vet several times for an expert’s opinion whether he was suffering some underlying pain or medical issues. Finally, Allie and her family sent Magico to Flag Is Up Farms

in Santa Ynez for training with the renowned Monty Roberts. Magico did very well there. However, he was not ready to be an amateur Hunter/Jumper. He needed a lot more training and guidance. Allie and her family had to make the decision to sell him . . . partially because her parents were not going to let Allie get back on him . . . and also because she wasn’t prepared to give him the training he needed (at this point, Allie was still only 17). Magico then went to another trainer in Hidden Hills (a Hidden Hills resident) to help prepare him to be sold or to find him a new home. From there, Magico was sold to a dressage or Hunter/Jumper trainer in the Moorpark/Somis area. Allie tried to follow Magico’s fate. She received updates occasionally for the next year or so, but she never heard about him again. Allie reached out to the last known trainer but got no further information.

Allie searched for Magico at multiple livestock auctions and online for years. Dead end . . .

UNTIL . . .

In 2018, we (Rob and Linda) bought a 20-acre ranch in Santa Ynez. Someone up above must have been following our dreams because at the ranch next door we met another soul mate—the other “she” in this story, Dana Harrison. Dana had a horse at her ranch—his name was “Nathan.” She also had a magnificent big ridgeback “puppy dog” she had named “Magico.” (We do not know the truth of that coincidence of a name.) We of course fell in love with all of them.

Dana was born and raised in Toronto (somethings are meant to be, as half of my family was likewise born and raised in that part of Canada). In Toronto, she engaged in cross country jumping and equitation as a young teen. Dana moved to Santa Barbara in 2001 (escaping the cold!), where there would be more space for horse endeavors.

Dana was on the hunt for her “forever horse,” looking for a dressage candidate. She found a beauty named “Nathan” in September 2012; he’d been marketed as a dressage horse. Dana wanted to learn how to dance on a horse. Nathan seemed a perfect fit.

On her first ride, Dana noted Nathan had some “behavioral issues.” He was rearing,

Dana,"Magico/Nathan,"andAllie, shortly after the moment when the long separated dots had been connected by chance.

bucking, kicking out. He flipped over on his back. Dana then decided the art of dressage was a little beyond their reach.

In October 2012, Dana moved Nathan to a private cottage where she was living. She removed Nathan’s saddle and started singing to him. After Nathan laid both of them down in a rock pile, she made him “a promise.”

Come Spring 2013, Nathan was getting a little “edgy” with City life. He needed more space than Santa Barbara could offer. Dana moved him to bigger pastures in the Santa Ynez Valley.

The handlers at this Santa Ynez Barn could not catch Nathan (typical of his “theme”). So Dana followed Nathan to Santa Ynez a week later, moving into a cottage in Los Olivos.

2013 continued with bareback riding and lots of singing. Nathan clearly enjoyed music and preferred fleece over leather.

Then came 2014 . . . another new facility. Nathan’s issues followed the both of them. Dana took care to ride him when the riding rings were empty to avoid potential collision with unsuspecting equine enthusiasts.

Nathan was moved to yet another facility in 2015. Then, the vet identified back issues. Next came Stem Cell treatments for Nathan; hand walking about three or four hours a day for several months.

At last, in 2016, the vet said “RIDE HIM!” Dana did. Good days/bad days. But Nathan got stronger.

2017/2018 brought Nathan to still another new facility. He again was “edgy,” maybe a “bad boy.” But in Dana’s familiar words, she repeated . . . . “I promised you.”

It was 2018 when Dana took Nathan home to his ranch/her ranch, her “forever home” here in Santa Ynez. He “dug it, chilled, wandered the trails.”

But . . . another vet check. “Nathan needs more work, not ready to be

retired.” Dana moved him off site to a neighboring barn with a five-star arena and a round pen; and she dusted off the dressage saddle.

This year . . . Nathan’s a beauty . . . he’s “learning to dance.”

Dr. Allie never lost hope of finding her equine best friend. But her searches continued to hit a dead end. Dana never knew “Nathan’s” early history.

Enter the miracle story!

It was early 2021 when we paid Dana and Nathan a visit to have a coveted look at that magnificent Santa Ynez equestrian facility, then Nathan’s new/temporary home. We were blown away at the beauty of all of it. We told Allie about it and wanted her to see it firsthand.

Dr. Allie (as if she doesn’t have enough on her plate) is also the vet for a dog START Rescue (I’m on START’s Board) brought over the border from Mexico, named “Lobito.” Our ranch caretaker in Santa Ynez adopted him; Allie has paid us several visits in Santa Ynez to oversee Lobito’s care. On the last visit, she and her boyfriend (“Cowboy Chris” who we adore) came with us to the facility where

Nathan was boarded—we wanted them to see this scene of magnificence. Dana was in the five-star arena riding Nathan when we arrived. As we exited our truck, Rob remembers Allie remarking “he looks just like a horse I used to have.” We thought nothing of that comment for a brief moment. But Dana immediately finished her ride and brought Nathan over to us. Allie’s eyes bugged out. Nathan looked at Allie with big bulging eyes. Allie was stone silenced . . . until she asked if Nathan had branding (certain numbers, “00”) on his rump. YES . . . those were the numbers. YES, this was MAGICO. YES, tears flowed. YES . . . there were hugs, kisses and absolute disbelief. THIS WAS ALLIE’S HORSE!

Rob and I still cry tears. We all do. This was a reunion we will never forget. It was meant to be. And I can only conclude THE WORLD KEEPS SHRINKING. Never give up. THERE ARE MIRACLES!

P.S. Nathan, age 21, is home now, next door to us. He’s a stunning beauty. He and Dana are not giving up on each other; she made him “a promise” and intends to keep it. Allie will forever be his “God Mom.” We are grateful. HH

MALIBU WINES & BEER GARDEN

SUPPORT MULTIPLE LOCAL VENDORS IN ONE IDYLLIC LOCATION

Written by Elle Rama

The history and character that make Hidden Hills so special are emulated by the antiquated charm of the Malibu Wines & Beer Garden just down the road. Originally serving as stables at the home of 1930’s actor Francis Lederer, the Spanishstyle establishment, located at 23130 Sherman Way in West Hills, now accommodates several tasting rooms inside its reimagined stalls and a twinkly garden just outside. The Mission Revival style home was designed and built by Lederer alongside architect John R. Litke in 1933 and was named as a historical landmark in 1978. Initially built for his wife’s horse Gypsy, in the early 1970’s, Marion Lederer began the transformation of

the stables by curating the Canoga Mission Gallery where she imported original 14th and 15th-century art pieces from the Spanish and Italian Renaissance. The Selmer family, the newest owners of the establishment, found some old photos left behind dating back to the 60’s, of what they believe to be friends of the Lederer’s as well as photos of the old gallery, and have created an installation inside to further commemorate the building’s history.

Upon arrival you are greeted by a warm and cozy nostalgia as the vine-covered brick and large archways welcome guests into the former horse stables, now tasting rooms. Because it is a historical landmark, not only are renovations

prohibited, but the Selmer family has done their part to preserve and restore the building however they can. Each room is partitioned by the original oak walls and decorated with rustic leather couches and refurbished barrel tables making for an authentic western experience. On weekends, when leaving the corridor to the garden, you will find various food truck vendors serving all kinds of food and desserts including artisan pizza pies, charcuterie boards, seafood, flavored ice, and beignets depending on the day. The event calendar online details when different vendors will be serving the Garden as well as special events like their silent discos or the Valentine’s Market Day. On February 6th from 1:00 PM5:00 PM you can sip on a glass of wine while you shop for a special gift from local artisans with products ranging from skincare, to fresh organic honey!

Malibu Family Wines prides itself on its dedication to supporting small businesses and are always searching for local vendors to include in their spaces. While the infamous Two Doughs pizza truck unfortunately shut down due to the pandemic, Topanga Grain Co. is another local bakery that decided to start on their longtime dream of pizza making to serve at the Garden. However, you would never know they are new to the “pizza game” with their exceptionally seasoned pies. Guests are seated underneath a canopy decorated with dazzling hanging lights and misters for the warmer days where you can enjoy a Margherita pizza with a

refreshing glass of Rosé. Unless you are a member of the Wine Club, the majority of the tables at the entrance are reserved for those who booked ahead while the back of the Garden is a free-seating area and usually hosts a live band or DJ that plays during the summer. Members of the Wine Club are allowed access to tastings at both the West Hills and Malibu locations in addition to receiving special prices on wines, and many more perks. Because the Garden only serves alcohol and the food truck menus, though delicious, are limited, guests are allowed to bring coolers of food and set up their picnic blankets in case the open tables are full - which is likely on any day with decent weather!

Their menu boasts over 20 beers on tap plus a much larger selection of cans, bottles, and seltzers. However, the wine list is their biggest draw with over 30 options from the Selmer Family ranch that sits on 1,000 acres in the canyons of Malibu where they cultivate over 12 different varietals between their Semler and Saddlerock brands and the 70,000 vines on their vineyard. With such a wide array of varietals including Cabernet

Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Mourvèdre, Grenache, Viognier, Malbec, Sangiovese, Petit Verdot, and Chardonnay, the Garden is sure to satisfy even the most particular of palates. When Ron Selmer, owner and founder of Malibu Family Wines, began planting vineyards on his ranch estate in 1997, he did so with the intention of setting up a business that would be passed through the generations. Today, his sons and daughters run different areas of the venture from the Malibu Wines & Beer Garden to the Malibu Wines Hikes and they wouldn’t have it any other way.

The Garden is a truly lovely experience that will leave you reminiscent of summer days and grateful for the good company. With bellies full of salty dough and cold beers, there’s really no better place to find yourself than the Malibu Wines & Beer Garden. HH

PREACHER CAKE

For the Cake

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking soda

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• 2 cups sugar

• 3 eggs

• 1 cup vegetable oil

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 20-ounce can crushed pineapple, with juice

• 1 1/2 cups finely chopped pecans or walnuts, divided

• 1 cup flaked coconut (optional)

For The Cream Cheese

Frosting:

• 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, at room temperature

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, at room temperature

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

AS CREATED BY THE BALBERT FAMILY

ABOVE: Cheryl Balbert in between her husband, Elliot (blow), and her daughter, Trisha (above).

THE FLAVORS OF HIDDEN HILLS

DIRECTIONS

CAKE:

1. Sift together flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon; set aside.

2. Combine sugar, eggs, oil and vanilla and mix on medium-low speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Slowly mix in flour mixture until just combined.

3. Add pineapple (undrained), 1 cup chopped pecans and coconut then continue mixing on medium-low speed until all ingredients are thoroughly combined (about 1 minute).

4. Spray a 3-quart 13x9 baking pan with cooking spray. Pour cake batter into pan and bake at 350 degrees for 45-50 minutes or until cake is set in the center and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

5. Cool cake completely in pan then the frost with Cream Cheese Frosting. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup chopped pecans over cake. Store in refrigerator.

CREAM CHEESE FROSTING:

1. Whip cream cheese, butter and vanilla with an electric mixer until fluffy (about 2 minutes).

2. Beat in powdered sugar (add more if necessary to reach desired consistency).

3. Frost cake and enjoy! HH

Tender, moisT cake recipe

wiTh crushed pineapple, pecans and coconuT wiTh a cream cheese frosTing. an old souThern

TradiTion To make This cake when The preacher comes by for a visiT!

Greta Goldshtein, PharmD, APh

It’s

TAKE BACK YOUR HEALTH

•

WHAT DISEASES ARE HIDING IN YOUR MOUTH? Disease can be hiding in your mouth which can find its way into your blood stream to create inflammation contributing to diabetes, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, high blood pressure, certain cancers, kidney disease or even a stroke!

SO WHAT DOES THIS MEAN TO YOU? Complete Health Dentistry is a unique practice that looks at the relationship between your mouth and body to determine the most appropriate way to treat your overall health. We call this the oral-systemic connection

HEALTHY MOUTH • HEALTHY BODY •

HEALTHY LIFE

At Complete Health Dentistry of Woodland Hills, our entire team is working hard to educate and change public behaviors and address the importance of oral health as it relates and links to a patient's overall health. We believe in offering a complete range of dental services under one roof to make it convenient for our patients and their families. We also know that by making good oral health a priority, you can reduce many risk factors for developing other general health problems.

Dr. Bruce Beard and Dr. Manny Fernandez are here to consult with you regarding Complete Health Dentistry

NastyLittle Suckers

In today’s crazy and uncertain world, it’s easy to forget about the tiny predator that hunts humans AND horses, potentially giving either West Nile Virus: The mosquito.

As you know, we no longer have a mosquito season; Mosquitoes can remain active throughout the year. But as the rains subside, yard watering increases and the weather warms mosquito activity will peak. Luckily, there are many ways to combat these insects, especially the invasive Aedes mosquitoes (ankle biters - new to our area).

STEP 1

NO CONTAINERS HOLDING WATER. . . NO MOSQUITOES

Mosquitoes need standing water to lay their eggs. Simple as that.

Look around where you live or on the trails or swales around your property line. Almost anything can hold water:

Troughs, buckets, plant saucers, tarps, a fountain, even a swimming pool.

Identify all the containers that can hold water and then either dump and drain the water once a week (it only takes seven days for a mosquito to complete its life cycle from egg to a flying adult) or throw away the containers.

3 EASY STEPS TO DO YOUR PART IN MINIMIZING MOSQUITOES IN HIDDEN HILLS.

If you want a good night’s rest or a bite-free day, get rid of all containers that can hold water.

STEP 2

INSECT REPELLENT

Fun fact... only female mosquitoes bite, this is because they need the protein in your blood to produce eggs.

Insect repellent is effective in stopping mosquitoes from attacking.

Insect repellent bracelets, by the way, don’t work to protect your entire body. It will only keep mosquitoes

away from your wrist area. Exposed skin is always at risk of mosquito bites. Cover up!

STEP 3

REPORT INFESTATIONS

If your own mitigation efforts are not working, odds are someone else is not mitigating at all. Contact the Greater L.A. County Vector Control District at 562-9449656 or submit an online service request at www. ReportMosquitoes.org. HH

WHICH INSECT REPELLENT IS MOST EFFECTIVE?

When purchasing insect repellent in stores, look for any of the following active ingredients that have been proven to keep mosquitoes away:

DEET - Picaridin

Oil of Lemon - Eucalyptus - IR 3535

Skillful Landscape Management aptitude, including job foreman

Knowledgeable Design Capability

Complete new and existing irrigation systems understanding and installation

Safe and skillful tree pruning and trimming aptitude

Hard scape installation and strategy

Landscape (heavy equipment operators)

IF YOU WANT A GOOD NIGHT’S REST OR A BITEFREE DAY, GET RID OF ALL CONTAINERS THAT CAN HOLD WATER.

A Local Tradition Since 1970, Our Family’s Special BBQ Recipe is Legendary.

A Local Tradition Since 1970, Our Family’s Special BBQ Recipe is Legendary.

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4923 Topanga Cyn Blvd. Woodland Hills

BUTTERFLIES FEELING THOSE

The Coronado Butterfly Preserve, 495 Coronado Dr, Goleta, CA 93117

This year the Western Monarch Butterflies are arriving in droves to the Coronado Butterfly Preserve in Goleta. The increased numbers of butterflies are flying down from as far north as Canada to spend the winter roosting on 9.3 acres of protected open space next to the southern California coast. In the preserve, there are trails winding through woodlands and meadows of native coastal sage scrub, eucalyptus groves to Devereux Creek, leading visitors to an outdoor gathering area and classroom. Many birds and wildlife live in this butterfly overwintering grove adjacent to the Ellwood Shores coastal bluffs, Santa Barbara Shores County Park, the Devereux Slough, and the beach.

The transformative power of butterflies has inspired many going through changes in their lives. More importantly, Monarch butterflies contribute to the sustainability of entire ecosystems by pollinating as they forage for nectar. Unfortunately populations have declined drastically due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Conserving the Monarch butterfly population is important because these pollinators are part of our natural food web and ecosystem. A declining Monarch population parallels other declining pollinator populations, which in turn impacts human food systems since seeds and fruit produced as a result of successful pollination feed other organisms.

Western Monarch butterfly season falls between the months of December through March, and during this time the Coronado Butterfly Preserve is enjoyed by hundreds of visitors per weekend. The well-maintained & marked trails begin in a residential area and are easy to walk with hardly any elevation gain. There are a myriad of trails that take hikers in and out of the eucalyptus forest where the largest concentration of butterflies are found. It’s not long before visitors are in the midst of swarms of migrating

Western Monarchs, with many of the butterflies concentrated in clusters among the branches, in addition to many flying around and sunning themselves in small groups along the numerous trails that lead to a very secluded and clean beachfront.

The Coronado Butterfly Preserve in Goleta provides plenty of open space for families and beginner hikers. Butterflies accompany visitors along paths that weave through an Eucalyptus Grove to an open expanse with incredible beach and ocean views. The Preserve has become a thriving place for Western Monarchs after they travel up to 3,000 miles south for the winter. They are the only butterflies to make such a long, round trip journey each year, and hikers will understand why once they visit them among the lush native plants & wildlife at the preserve.

The Coronado Butterfly Preserve is a beautiful natural area open to the public every day of the year from sunrise to sunset. No reservations or admission fees are required; the Land Trust for Santa Barbara County relies on visitor donations that can be left in several boxes at the trail heads. HH

“happiness is like a buTTerfly, The more you chase iT, The more iT will evade you, buT if you noTice

The oTher Things around you, iT will genTly come and siT on your shoulder.”

henry david Thoreau

We control and Dim your Lighting using Smarthome Technology

uplighting • path lighting spot lighting • security lighting

RETROFIT YOUR EXISTING LANDSCAPE LIGHTING SYSTEM OR INSTALL A NEW SYSTEM USING HIGH EFFICIENCY LED LIGHTING MADE TO LAST

WE USE ONLY BRASS OR COPPER FIXTURES MADE IN L.A. DESIGNED TO BE EASY TO MAINTAIN AND EASY TO MODIFY

SANTA MONICA

written by Elyse Glickman

Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day, a proposal or an anniversary, the idea of a romantic weekend escape just never gets old. This is why over a century since its inception, Santa Monica has been a go-to getaway for those wanting to spoil their sweethearts with prime beach views, sumptuous food, lively top-shelf beverages,

chic amenities, a world-class spa, and plenty to do beyond the hotel.

Amid the many beachfront and beachadjacent motels and hotels, several properties have undergone upgrades to reinvent themselves as alluring romantic escapes. However, Casa del Mar, opened in 1926 as a private beach club, invented a new category of luxury lodging that remains

in place nearly a century later. Builders Jack and Til Harter clearly had sweeping, windswept romance on their minds when conceiving the property and bringing it to life. No expense was spared (to the tune of $2 million 1926 dollars) to create something that would be the toast of the coast for the Hollywood elite and others among the era’s discerning clientele.

Los Angeles architect Charles F. Plummer captured the 129-room California dream using the Italian Renaissance Revival architecture style. He further personified it by carving and sculpting out luxury beach facilities, a beach-level veranda, an Olympic-sized indoor swimming pool, ornate ballrooms, dining areas with panoramic rooms, ceiling-tofloor windows, and private rooms that were essentially mini-mansions. The interiors were curated, rather than decorated, with painstakingly chosen Oriental rugs, brass fixtures, bronze statuary and hand-painted ceilings. The statement? All who passed through the doors were VIPs. After extensive renovations through the years that adapted and kept the original vision relevant, Casa del Mar is ready to reel in romantics and beach lovers with several updates and improvements, while keeping

in place certain elements and aesthetics that keep the property legendary (such as the Lobby Lounge’s artistic mixology, bites, and live music) almost a century on.

Casa del Mar’s marquee restaurant Catch remains a beloved local institution with its artful mix of ‘Coastal California’ cuisine, sushi bar, farmer’s market selections and a Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence-designated wine list. However, its updated iteration opened in December 2021 under the skilled leadership of Executive Chef Gemma Gray. The Salamanca, Spain native’s ambitious new menus include originals such as Uni Sea Bream Crudo with pickled ginger parsnips and ‘Sea-Cuterie’ (uniquely preprared Toro Sawara, Japanese Kanpachi, Baja Blue Fin Akami) and classics Chilean Seabass and Braised Short Ribs with surprising

ABOVE, For those whose love knows no bounds, the Presidential Suite and Penthouse Suite deliver optimal views, comfort, and luxury. CENTER RIGHT, The pool and patio of Casa Del Mar, perfectly situated along the shore, are primed for another century of revelry, relaxation, and romance. BOTTOM RIGHT, take in the view, get some work done, or watch your favorite channels from the comfort of Casa del Mar’s luxurious beds.

flavor profiles and textures. Her influence can also be experienced at Terrazza Lounge, noted for menus and dishes crafted from seasonal products and local ingredients. The Lobby Bar delivers an up-to-the-minute mixology program and live music, which keeps Casa del Mar’s ambiance as relevant as ever.

While Casa del Mar was a draw for athletic and outdoorsy sophisticates from its private club days forward, their 21st century counterparts can enjoy an up-to-the-moment fitness center, complimentary daily fitness classes along with surf lessons, bike rentals, and yoga and meditation instructors available by appointment.

Guests at Casa del Mar and sister property Shutters on the Beach also have exclusive access (with 48–72-hour advance notice), to some

of the world’s most elite triathlon trainers at Tower 26 for the ultimate heartracing workouts involving swim, bike, run and triathlon coaching. Casa del Mar’s Sea Wellness Spa, meanwhile, is now using premium skincare treatments from MBR (Medical Based Research), produced in spa town Bad Schlema, Germany.

Palm Terrace pool, located on the 5th floor, still boasts the post-card ready ocean views and cooling breezes,while factoring in a whirlpool spa, chaise lounges and towel service. Lobby cabanas, meanwhile, are available for private beach parties the guests can rent for a special occasion or book at a moment’s notice based on availability. ‘Beachside Bliss’ private beach picnic packages are also available, combining seasonal fare from the hotel restaurants’ kitchens as well

ABOVE, The Casa Del Mar offers several elegant dining options morning, noon, and night, sure to please your taste. BELOW, Under the direction of Executive Chef Gemma Gray, the award-winning and widely acclaimed Catch American Seafood has reinvented itself with exciting new dishes and cocktails intended to push even its own boundaries of quality and creativity.

as a beautifully decorated table on a choice beach spot on the property.

Even with Catch’s buzzworthy new additions, the concierge has some of the Los Angeles area’s best restaurants at its fingertips when it comes to casual dining and white tablecloth experiences. Among them, Birdie G’s (noted fo in-house preservation projects and dishes using gems from California’s best purveyors) Cassia, Milo & Olive, Pasjoli, Rustic Canyon, Socalo, Tar & Roses, Upper West, and Wally’s (whose famed wine shop offers excellent beach

picnic provisions as well as top wines from around the world. Pacific Park, a few minutes’ walk from the Casa Del Mar on Santa Monica Pier, is another generationsold institution that retains its original romance but also has appealing modern updates, including the Pacific Wheel, the first solar-powered Ferris wheel. HH

For more information and reservations (rooms begin at $595, call (800) 898-6999 or (310) 581-5533 or visit hotelcasadelmar.com.

FROM TOP LEFT GOING CLOCKWISE, The pool and patio of Casa Del Mar, perfectly situated along the shore, are primed for another century of revelry, relaxation, and romance. It’s always “Sunset Season” at the Casa Del Mar, and the Palm Terrace’s seating and menu completes an already picture perfect ending to a great day or weekend. There’s romance and vibrance at every turn, even in public areas that lead to the hotel’s ballroom and special event spaces. The Lobby Bar is an ideal spot to begin or end a great day, or catch up with friends with its conversation-starting views and décor.

All photos courtesy of the Casa Del Mar and Ballentine PR.