Hidden Hills Magazine • Winter 2018

ENGEL & VÖLKERS

From across the globe, to across the street

SHERWOOD COUNTRY CLUB | SOLD $5,300,000

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, 22267 Mulholland Highway, Calabasas calabasas.evusa.com | 818.875.9500 | calDRE 01910946

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.

CALABASAS | SOLD $3,498,000

HIDDEN VALLEY | ACTIVE $11,500,000

HIDDEN HILLS | SOLD $6,000,000

from the

PUBLISHERS

Needless to say, recent weeks have been a challenging time for all of our communities. For many, this holiday season will not be one looked back upon with the joyous nostalgia we normally embrace this time of year. Of course, in difficult times, we also watch as friends, family, neighbors and even people we have never met give selflessly to others.

We delayed this final publication of the year a bit so that we could include at least one story of how members of our community came together to help others. We know there are countless other stories of bravery and self-sacrifice throughout the greater area. To those who have gone above and beyond, and to those who have lost so much, we dedicate this issue.

Here's wishing you and yours a safe, healthy and happy year to come.

Lonna Weber & Joe Bellissimo

Lonna@LongValleyMedia.com

Joe@LongValleyMedia.com

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

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.

NEUROLOGICAL SURGERY

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.

KAPIL MOZA MD, FACS, FAANS

WINTER 2018 features

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COMMUNITY EFFORT

The story of those who stayed behind during the Woolsey Fires.

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MYSTIC HENNA

Hidden Hills raised Jessica Eve Shandler has crafted a following and created a career in the world of henna art.

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SHOP LOCAL

An expanded look at some unique and coveted finds this holiday season and new year.

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CHANTEL GIA

Co-founder of Electric Pics Jewelry, Hidden Hills resident Chantel Gia Poynton strings together a thriving business.

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MAKING TRACKS

The retro-esque town of Fillmore, California and the Vintage Trains that make both films & holidays something to behold.

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CLEAR BLUE PARADISE 44

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Exuma Cay in the Bahamas has many crystal clear reasons to visit...including swimming pigs!

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COCKTAILS FROM A MIX MASTER

Local spirits legend Kyle Branche is wishing you a "bitter" holiday season.

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DEBBY LOGGIA & CAL WILDLIFE RESCUE

Debby Loggia devotes some of her philanthropic time to helping California's wildlife.

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CUCINARE COMO CAPO

Santa Monica Mainstay Italian Eatery, Capo, with its wood-burning in-dining-room oven is as cozy as it gets. Try some of their famous dishes at home.

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SPANKY’S PET PICS

Bunnies abound at the Sorenson household.

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

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

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.

ALYSSA KEYES

Alyssa Keys is a lifestyle and portrait photographer residing in Northern California. Her love for her work shines through in unique ways and loves sharing it with the world. You can view her work at alyssakeysphotography.

“Sitting Pretty” Inc.

COMMUNITY EFFORT

WHEN RESOURCES WERE STRETCHED TO THE BRINK A GROUP OF UNWITTING VOLUNTEERS STEPPED-UP TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

LOOKING SOUTHWEST FROM OLD ELDORADO MEADOW ROAD.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ASHLEY CHANEL.

Editor's Note: As this story was pulled together in the smoky aftermath of the Woolsey fires, we made every attempt to learn about what happened from those who stayed behind. In our compressed time-frame, even while delaying publication of this issue, we know there are many more who were part of this story but are not named here. Our hearts truly go out to everyone, in all communities, who experienced loss during this tragedy and we extend our heartfelt “thanks” to those who also did what they could to change the outcome for the better. WE ALL THANK YOU!

WRITTEN BY JAKE WARNER AND JOE BELLISSIMO

When asked to describe what “home” means, most people focus beyond the actual structure in which they live. The people, food, memories and community are all part of the ideology of “home.”

If you ask anyone West of Valley Circle Boulevard about home, the surrounding area of unique mountains and canyons will definitely make it into the description. People choose to move to areas like Bell Canyon, Hidden Hills, Malibu and Agoura simply because the natural and rural-esque lifestyle is calmer, healthier and overall happier. Unfortunately, with nature and serenity, also come the natural downsides that we as humans have little control over. If you give it some thought, every area of the country, if not the world, seems to have a natural phenomenon or two that always looms at the back of our minds. In the Midwest it’s tornadoes. In Florida and the Southeast, it’s hurricanes. In our little slice of paradise, it’s earthquakes, wildfires and mudslides.

Every year, Californians are hit with the unsettling task of preparing for and anticipating wildfires. We know they are

imminent when the breezes grow to gusty and warm winds (our “Santa Ana’s”), especially with the horrible drought and high temperatures that we have long been dealing with. So we do our best to clear the surrounding brush and prep the structures in our neighborhoods in an effort to help (and preempt) first responders in any way that we can. But unfortunately, our best is sometimes not enough and Mother Nature hits us with a not-so-gentle reminder of how tempestuous she can be. This latest reminder began on the afternoon of Thursday November 8th, when all local residents were introduced to a plume of billowing smoke originating in the northwesternmost corner of the San Fernando Valley. “The Woolsey Fire,” as it was named, was fairly small and seemed to be heading in a direction that would steer clear of neighborhoods. However, as evening set in, the direction and strength of the fire escalated to a far worse situation and the incoming Santa Ana winds began to attack with no clear calm-point in the forecast. As 10 pm rolled around, the fire was in parts of Thousand Oaks and Oak Park that would normally not have been topof-mind as high fire danger areas. Homes in flat and not-

so-wooded areas, sadly, began to burn. Hidden Hills and most neighborhoods north of the 101 were completely evacuated. Horses and other livestock were relocated to Pierce College, while most families had grabbed their other pets, kids and prized and most cherished items to set out for safer locations. Most. Not all.

While acting against orders from first responders is something that is discouraged, sometimes the “dis” part of the word “discouraged” is dropped and only the “courage” part remains, as did some of our neighbors. That’s not to suggest that those who stoically gathered their family photos, and hard drives, and instructed their toddlers to choose their favorite stuffed animals, before heading out to safety were anything short of courageous. Without most everyone complying with the mandatory evacuation order (getting out of the way so firefighters could focus on the fire), leaving their homes behind, against their instinct to stay and protect, the outcome could have been much, much worse. Yet, when resources were stretched thin, and fire protection in fact sent out the word “you’re on your own,” some of our friends and

neighbors who had stayed behind in our communities “just in case” made a huge difference for all of us.

It should be noted that contrary to what was reported in the tabloid media, TMZ and The Daily Mail among them, it was not celebrity-backed private fire crews that kept the fire out of Hidden Hills. In fact, it was everyday residents—our next door neighbors—who worked to save those homes along with others. Hidden Hills' security contractor, Covered Six, who added additional staff early on at the request of resident Laura McCorkindale was also integral to the effort.

Hidden Hills Mayor Steve Freedland was one of our neighbors who stayed at Hidden Hills City Hall throughout the fires along with other Council members and volunteers, working 24 hours a day to coordinate with state and county first responders and keep residents informed. As things progressed, members of this group were dispatched to specific locations throughout Hidden Hills to work as “spotters,” reporting back about how the threat was developing. “This was unlike any of the other fires that I've been around to see,” says Freedland. “The firefighters were so overwhelmed with the speed and magnitude of this fire that they just didn't have the personnel to put in Hidden Hills. They were fighting it diligently from the air but had there not been people with hoses and shovels on the ground, I think we would have lost perhaps half a dozen or a dozen homes in here.”

Hidden Hills resident and owner of Pedalers Fork, Robbie Schaefer, was one of these residents. Schaefer’s best friend growing up was David Nussbaum, whose family still lives on Kit Carson. As the fires began to ignite the perimeter of Hidden Hills where the homes on Kit Carson adjoin the open space, Schaefer was there alongside his longtime friends. “I joined Gabe, David and Mike Nussbaum, Tyson Parsons, Tanner Keitzman, and Shannon Brown on line with shovel in hand,” says Schaefer of struggling to keep a burning guest house/barn adjacent to the Nussbaum property contained. “An unmarked pickup truck came through with two firefighters and they had a radio and called in air support.” After a few attempts, the water-dropping chopper was

able to effectively knock down that fire, but as the situation calmed down on Kit Carson, the unpredictable winds carried the fire line southward along the perimeter fences towards Dixon Trail and Ashley Ridge. There, this group, including Freedland, met up with other proactive residents to help their neighbors. Danny Johnson, who lives on Long Valley Road well out of the path of the blaze, took it upon himself to patrol the perimeter with his brother, David, Father, Dan, Mother, Beth and his best friend, Mike Pessell. “On Friday morning we looked down Long Valley and it was clear. We were actually kind of thankful because we thought it was going to be over,” says Danny. “But then literally, about an hour later, it looked the worst we had ever seen it.” As they rounded Jim Bridger Road, they came upon their friends, Rodney and Joy Jerkins, who live on Ashley Ridge, just as the wind suddenly shifted bringing flames to the edge of their backyard.

THIS PAGE: (CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE) HIDDEN HILLS RESIDENT LARRY HUFF SPRAYS DOWN EMBERS IN A RAVINE IN THE OPEN SPACE LAND BETWEEN LONG VALLEY ROAD AND JED SMITH. THE HOSE, RUN FROM THE KAY PROPERTY, ACTUALLY STRETCHES ACROSS THE L.A. / VENTURA COUNTY LINE. CALLED IN BY A GROUND CREW TO HELP THE RESIDENTS ON KIT CARSON, A WATER DROPPNG CHOPPER ULTIMATELY HITS ITS MARK.

HUFF MONITORING THE FIRE AFTER DARK. A FIRE RIG FROM MONTECITO, AN AREA, SADLY, TOO FAMILIAR WITH DISASTERS OF ITS OWN.

NOT ONE OF THESE PEOPLE LOOKED AT ANYTHING THEY DID, WHETHER BIG OR SMALL, AS HEROIC. EVERYONE JUST DID WHATEVER HE OR SHE COULD DO BECAUSE THAT’S WHAT YOU DO AS A COMMUNITY.”

–LARRY HUFF

Rodney and Joy were overwhelmed. The Johnsons and Pessell went into action. With the power out, they first worked to find and open the manual sprinkler valves. They then grabbed hoses and fought the flames. The Jerkins’ home was saved and again, the fire was stopped from breaching into Hidden Hills.

One consistent challenge with this story was that if you ask anyone who has ever gone above and beyond to help someone, they will most often and most sincerely demure and reject any attempts at praise. They truly believe what they did was simply what had to be done at the time. This is the case with everyone we spoke to, including Hidden Hills resident Anne Kolbe, who, along with her sons, William and Max, also took up the task of volunteer firefighters. The Kolbes, who live near the Long Valley gate and further from the fire’s path, had stayed back to help with the community animals, taking in neighbors’ horses and coordinating horse haulers to come in and evacuate the horses and donkeys if needed. However, when the decision was made to stay put, they had no idea they would be helping to keep the fire out of the community. “My son William helped out in Bell Canyon with the horse evacuations, assisting as needed with the animals and with changing tires–whatever was needed,” says Kolbe. “His girlfriend lived in Bell Canyon, so he was there to help her evacuate and saw how much their community was in danger and needed help. Both he and my other son, Max, were frustrated that they couldn't do more.”

Once the fire was near Ahmanson Ranch, the Kolbes stayed close to home to monitor what was going on. William drove around the city perimeter and saw their friend, Katie Aviv, who lives on Dixon Trail, putting out spot fires on both her property and the neighbor’s empty lot. She was armed with fire extinguishers and a garden hose. “William jumped in and gave her a hand, but Katie was pretty amazing, just bravely protecting her home,” says Kolbe. “Once William left, both Max and I checked in with her, and noticed another hot spot climbing the adjacent hill, moving up to a barn and house. We all ran up to the property, grabbing hoses and shovels,

THIS PAGE: DAVID NUSSBAUM KNOCKING DOWN FLAMES AND TURNING DIRT TO SMOTHER HOT COALS AND EMBERS ALONG WITH HIS GOOD FRIEND, SHAY BROWN (PHOTO COURTESY OF GABE NUSSBAUM) AND (BOTTOM) KATIE AVIV PUTTING MANNING A HOSE ON DIXON TRAIL (PHOTO COURTESY OR ANNE KOLBE). OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: CONCERNED RESIDENTS WATCH AS FLAMES MOVE THROUGH AHMANSON RANCH TOWARDS HIDDEN HILLS (PHOTO: KATIE BOYUM). PHIL KAY WORKS TO PUT OUT A HOT SPOT (PHOTO: LILIAN HOLT). KYLE MURPHY WORKS A HOSE JUST OUTSIDE THE COMMUNITY PERIMETER (PHOTO: KRYSTAL DRY-MURPHY).

whatever we could to put out the fire. The barn was evacuated except for some very large pigs, but the pigs didn't seem to mind when I came through to get the hoses.”

Hidden Hills resident, Larry Huff, was also on the Western edge of the community at this time. “I had driven out to the end of Long Valley Road just after the air drop at the Ahmanson gate to check the fire status; the air drop was very accurate, but after, I noticed there were still some burning trees,” recalls Huff. “We grabbed hoses from the [Kaye’s] house on the left at the end of Long Valley and started spraying it down. There was an oak on fire near the new construction on Jed Smith so I linked some hoses together and got some buckets and started throwing them on it. Within minutes, Kyle Murphy arrived and I saw Angel [the dog walker] there helping as well.”

One of the difficult parts about this wildfire was the sheer number of so many large animals involved. Calabasas, Malibu, Bell Canyon, Old Agoura and Hidden Hills are known for being home to thousands of horses and farm animals. Considering the devastation that occurred throughout the greater area, the quick action of the locals who stayed behind and those who selflessly came into the fire zones to help trailer out any animals they could was the reason so many animals survived in the areas that the fire breached. In Hidden Hills, the effort to get ahead of it was frantic. “When I was evacuating my horses, I met a girl named Sarah who was with a friend,” recalls Huff. “They were not from the community but had a giant trailer at Round Meadow and were willing to help any animals that needed it. They wanted to drive through the community and rescue animals but the gates were on lockdown. I couldn't help but hug them. I hope our paths cross again someday.”

Hidden Hills resident Allie Tashnek, DVM, and her boyfriend Chris Weber, who work with the Ventura County Emergency Services Large Animal Rescue team, and also assist our own Hidden Hills Emergency Services, were among those working to help trailer out horses. Admittedly, it was a bit of chaos, as plans were not clear as to how best to get out so many animals or where to take them. Yet, by working with contacts

IT WAS A JOY TO SEE WITNESS AND FEEL EVERYONE WORKING TOGETHER IN SYNERGY: THE CITY, THE ASSOCIATION, COVERED 6 AND THE NEIGHBORS. WHEN I RETURNED TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD, I RECOGNIZED THAT I HAD NEVER EXPERIENCED THIS MUCH GRATITUDE BEFORE; I DIDN’T KNOW IT WAS POSSIBLE TO FEEL SO MUCH BOUNDLESS APPRECIATION. THAT FEELING LINGERS, IT HASN’T GONE AWAY AND I DON’T EXPECT IT TO ANYTIME SOON.

~LAURA MCCORKINDALE

ABOVE: AN EMPTY, BURNED-OUT HORSE TRAILER. (PHOTO: JAKE WARNER.)

RIGHT: HIDDEN HILLS RESIDENTS

BOB PAYNE AND STEVE WEBER PATROL THE AREA BY DIRT BIKE FOR HOT SPOTS

OPPOSITE PAGE (CLOCKWISE) THE CHARRED REMAINS OF THE BARN AT THE END OF KIT CARSON.

RESIDENT AND VOLUNTEER BRITT AARONSON MANS THE PHONES. A GROUP OF VOLUNTEERS COORDINATE AT THE CITY HALL INCIDENT COMMAND.

DIRK LOVETT, CITY ENGINEER KEEPS COMMUNICATIONS AT THE READY.

throughout the area, they were able to move 6 to 8 trailers into the community in about 45 minutes. Over the five days of evacuation and lockout, they also worked around the clock to transport animals from Old Agoura, then Malibu, and ultimately Zuma Beach, where Allie provided medical treatment for severely burned animals.

And so it went that Friday and throughout the ordeal, neighbors, many of whom had never met, working side-by-side with hoses, shovels, buckets and sprinklers to save the homes of anyone who needed help, keep the fire out of our community, and lend aid to the helpless animals. Even after the initial fire blew through, for days, the countless smoldering hot spots throughout the area kicked up

flames with every gust of wind. These areas were patrolled by many residents, like Huff’s wife, Katie Boyum, and Steve Weber and Bob Payne, who surveyed the area on dirt bikes and armed with shovels. “Without all of the residents who stayed back, the outcome would have been very different,” recalls Schaefer. “Not one home was lost [in Hidden Hills]. It really was a miracle.”

What took place over the balance of the week was indeed a nightmare. With a total of 96,000 acres burned, over 1,500 structures and homes destroyed, and 3 tragic deaths, the Woolsey Fire is the worst ever to hit Southern California. Although these statistics may be unfathomable, they could have been much worse. The First Responders were true heroes, often sleeping for only a few minutes at a time on the backs of their trucks or in an empty space on the sidewalk. Some were noted as saying they were up for more than 3 days without rest. Their duty was to protect us and they did. They were on top of their game--gauging where the fire would be moving hours before it did and controlling the chaos of evacuating 250,000 people within a couple of hours. Thanks to them, our residents who did stay behind in harm’s way—ultimately on their own--felt safe.

Now that the fire is 100% contained and over, it’s time for us as a community to evaluate the damage and reassess what we can do to prevent future similar scenarios. Britt Aaronson, another Hidden Hills resident who volunteered through it all at City Hall, 24 hours a day, says that her take-away from the fires would be to encourage others to prepare. “Even though the City, State and County may have emergency plans in place, residents should have a clear plan to prepare their families and homes for another emergency.” This would include compiling an emergency file with important documents for ease of travel. Stock water, canned food and emergency medications to be able to take care of your families and pets for at least 72 hours and up to 10 days. Have an evacuation plan in place for your pets and larger animals. Install gas and water shutoff valves. Consider installing generators and fill your homes with emergency supplies, such as flashlights, batteries, hoses,

knives, blankets and heavy shoes. Get CERT Certification and Volunteer for our City. “The amount that can be done by simply organizing your personal items,” says Aaronson, “may just save you the most precious time when that event actually takes place.”

Along with everything we’ve learned from this most recent challenge, the silver lining, if you could call it that, is the reminder of how strong and inspiring the power of community can be when people work together for the greater good. “I don't think any of us feel like heroes,” adds Huff. “Not one of these people looked at anything they did whether big or small as heroic. Everyone just did whatever he or she could do because that’s what you do as a community.”

RESOURCES:

Those who wish to make cash donations to support Red Cross relief efforts can do so on the Red Cross website or over the phone by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS. You can also text CAWILDFIRES to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

The County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control has opened multiple shelter sites to take in animals displaced by the fires. You can make a cash donation to the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation's Noah's Legacy Fund to support the department's disaster relief efforts. Donations will be used to fund food, shelter and medical care for dogs, cats, horses and other domesticated animals sheltered during a disaster.

The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation provides private funding to the Los Angeles Fire Department when the city can no longer do so. Donations to the organization will help get equipment and supplies, training and outreach, and fund youth programs. The LAFD is also one of many agencies assisting in the fight against the Woolsey Fire. You may donate by visiting donate.keela.co/ los-angeles-fire-department-foundation/ default-donation-form-49.

MYSTIC henna

BY BRIELLE FRASER PHOTOS BY ALYSSA KEYES

Art is everywhere, from the music you listen to, to the pieces that hang on the walls of your home. Artistic expression shines through many forms and facets and is continuously shaping our perspective on life and how it is meant to be lived. Jessica Eve Shandler’s artistic ability is one that leaves you in awe; with its fluidlike beauty and seemingly effortless execution, Shandler’s henna art truly is a mystic vision.

Jessica Eve, a Hidden Hills native, credited her inclination to art through her need to

doodle and draw in every setting she found herself in while growing up. She describes how the transference of design to any type of surface was a cathartic way for her to express her individuality. She prides herself on being a social butterfly who craves genuine human connection, which is why she took to henna so seamlessly.

Shandler says, “When I was 18 years old, I was on a plane sitting next to an Indian woman who remarked that my drawings looked like the designs from her country. When I started looking them up, they were so

similar to what I was already doing.”

She was constantly inspired by all surfaces around her, from plain white paper to people’s skin, which is the reason art was her favorite subject all throughout her schooling. When she was 21 years old, Shandler spontaneously bought a one-way airplane ticket to Maui with her friends, because she was craving a different type of adventure, one that would eventually lead her to discover passions she could not then imagine living without.

SHE DESCRIBES HOW THE TRANSFERENCE OF DESIGN TO ANY TYPE OF SURFACE WAS A CATHARTIC WAY FOR HER TO EXPRESS HER INDIVIDUALITY.

“I was planning on being there for only a month, but then I ended up falling in love with the island, and I started working with special needs children teaching them art.” Shandler continues, “I had been teaching the special needs kids for a little over a year when I saw a sign in the window of a henna shop that said they were hiring. I tried it out and the shoe fit, so here we are now.”

While she was living on the island, she

fell completely in love with fire dancing, which is just another one of the many ways she expresses her individual, bohemian spirit through her artistry. Now, living in a tranquil, chic condo in Venice, Shandler not only practices fire dancing, but also performs at events small and large in the community, in addition to teaching younger children about the Hawaiian traditional dance style.

As for her henna art, Shandler is hired for all types of events and occasions. She draws henna for events ranging from traditional Indian weddings to birthday parties, and even for baby showers. She describes baby showers as one of her favorite events to be hired for because pregnant bellies are her “favorite canvases” to work with. Shandler explains how it’s an indescribable feeling to draw on a living being before he or she is welcomed into the world. “There’s something so intimate about it, I deeply fell in love with henna. You have this moment of stillness while someone trusts you to draw on one of their body parts. I just love the impermanence of it.”

The impermanence of henna appeals to many because they do not have to commit to a lifelong design, such as a tattoo. Although Shandler’s henna creations typically last around two weeks, their whimsical yet meaningful design and curation are so breathtaking that many wish they could forever be etched in their skin.

“This is such a beautiful way to support myself and meet new people through being creative. I have found my niche.”

THERE’S SOMETHING SO INTIMATE ABOUT IT, I DEEPLY FELL IN LOVE WITH HENNA. YOU HAVE THIS MOMENT OF STILLNESS WHILE SOMEONE TRUSTS YOU TO DRAW ON ONE OF THEIR BODY PARTS. I JUST LOVE THE IMPERMANENCE OF IT.

-JESSICA EVE SHANDLER

SHOP DESIGN VIBES

WITHIN ten10

PLACES TO KNOW AND GO WITHIN 10 MILES OF ANY HIDDEN HILLS GATE ...OR DELIVERED RIGHT TO YOUR DOOR

Special Featured Business Section

DEJAUNjewelers

Moving through an upscale mall in today’s world can be met with an onslaught of brand names. One might even be hard-pressed to find a family owned and operated local business among the many national chains. However, two of our area’s top shopping destinations – the Village at Topanga and The Oaks Mall – are home to one of our community’s most enduring, family created brands, Dejaun Jewelers.

Founded in 1985 by brothers Mike and Jack Maralian, Dejaun is a full-service independent jewelry and watch retailer, specializing in not only sales and repair, but also one-of-a-kind custom pieces. Michael Maralian, Mike’s son, is a second-generation operator of this business and works alongside his father and uncle every business day. Having grown up immersed in the knowledge and work ethic that his family instilled in him, Michael says his pride in the business’ relationship with the community is clear. “We want

our clients to feel like they are not only valued customers but also friends. I think that’s evident in our service and how we are mindful to keep our prices incredibly fair and competitive.”

Yet, while value may be part of the equation at Dejaun, with entry-level pieces starting around $90, the variety of luxury brands alongside the attainable is diverse. Bulgari, Chopard, Grand Seiko, Breguet, and Franck Muller are only a few of the coveted offerings that, although fairly within reach, can

also have price tags into the 6 and even (rarely) 7 figure range. “Jewelry is a very personal thing,” says Michael. “It carries meaning. It is a statement about one’s self that each person chooses to make. So we offer a range of designs and brands that can identify with every individual, whatever that statement might be.” One way to achieve that most unique or personal piece is to work with Dejaun’s team of custom jewelry artisans, who can craft a design into reality in about 2 to 3 weeks.

“We all really love being a part of that intimate and meaningful part of life where jewelry connects with people,” adds Michael. “Whether a proposal or a

birthday or even a moment when clients are treating themselves to something special, every day we’ve been here has meant something to us and that is how it will continue to be.”

DEJAUN JEWELERS

424 W Hillcrest Drive

Thousand Oaks, CA 91360

(805) 495-1425

6320 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Space 1650

Woodland Hills, CA 91367

(818) 888-8292

dejaun.com

Exclusivegrooming

They are the best friends you’ve chosen, the ones you seek comfort from when your day has seemed longer than 24 hours, the most loyal creatures you will ever come to know...they are your pets. Just like other family members, our pets also have needs that must be met, such as feeding, walking and, of course, grooming. Jamal Tatum is not only someone you can trust to tend to your pets’ grooming needs, but also one who will honor and cherish your pets the same way you do throughout the grooming process and beyond.

Tatum began his professional grooming career around 11 years ago. He had been working in the business for 3 years when he decided it was time to break away from storefront grooming and move instead to an on-the-go

BY BRIELLE FRASER

mobile grooming platform. His mobile business has since brought innumerable tail-wags to many throughout the surrounding community.

“I am so blown away with the community I am a part of; that’s what makes me happy--being in service to a community,” Tatum says. “Grooming has become a huge part of my life and I’m really content with where I’m at.”

Tatum’s clients fully trust his nurturing, gentle spirit as he tends to their animals in more ways than just as a groomer. .He also provides pet sitting, walking and feeding service for dogs and cats while their owners are away from home. He prides himself on developing relationships with these pets and is as loyal to them as they are to him when it

comes to ensuring all their needs are met.

“When I’m in the van with an animal, 90% of the time I don’t use leashes, or restraints. It’s mainly energy work,” Tatum explains. “Every pet is like a person and each one is going to be different. I work around each pet’s needs and go from there.”

One of the rarest things about Exclusive Grooming is that Tatum also offers grooming for cats. For some that would be an impossible feat, but for Tatum, it’s one of his favorite parts about his chosen career path.

“Everything outside of the van doesn’t exist. If I’m coming into the van with the stresses of the outside world, those animals will pick up on it. I always keep the grooming room neutral, upbeat and happy with my approach.”

Tatum shared his admiration for the Hidden Hills community with its loving and welcoming vibe. He noted how remarkable the neighbors were during the Woolsey fires through their service and care given to others.

“Everyone in the Hidden Hills community has become like family. I am there for them in any way I can be and they are there for me in any way they can be,” Tatum says.

Exclusive Grooming will undoubtedly provide you and your beloved pet with the service and warm-hearted energy that’s deserved, and will always leave your pets smelling, looking and feeling their best.

EXCLUSIVE GROOMING

(818) 429-7427

exclusivegrooming.com

Karma Candle

Imagine how it would feel to have something good, enlightening and always different show up at your door, a gift that could be enjoyed each night, bringing Zen and balance into your home. This is the mission of Karma Candle Club.

The seeds for this endeavor were planted in the Fall of 2014 when Karma Candle Club founder, Ryan Magill, took a lifechanging trip to India. While in the city of Rishikesh, he watched the locals prepare for the annual Diwali festival, the festival of lights. This was the culmination of weeks that the people of Rishikesh spent crafting homemade candles and

lanterns, which they would then give to one another as gifts. Their homes, city streets and even the river Ganges would be covered in these homemade incandescents, lit each night for 5 nights.

While immersed in this celebration, Ryan saw the joy and profound meaning these candles bring. A celebration of the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, the importance of knowledge, self-improvement and seeking the good and right path. “Lighting a candle almost always ties back to something meaningful,” says Ryan. “And when the receivers of a candle light their gift, there is this beautiful moment of

quiet gratitude for the person who gave it to them. I wanted to bring that feeling of connection and positive energy to people.

Ryan soon found himself to be a seeker, obsessed with finding the best small batch American candle companies from around the country that also give back in some way or another--Artisans who create candles that are not only All natural, Clean burning & Lead free, but also Vegetable-based and vegan. “What most people don't realize about candles is that unless they are made from plant-based wax, they will release carbon monoxide during the burning process,” says Ryan. “That is the same toxic gas that is emitted from your car's exhaust pipe. It’s very important to us to know that what our customers are breathing in is 100

Ryan. “So our subscribers get to sample candles from lots of companies and they can choose to buy again any candle they love directly from the candle company we featured.” With every box sent, Karma Candle Club customers can also choose one of three charities featured on their site to which a donation will be made, each benefiting causes that help impoverished children, provide badly needed vaccines, or protect mistreated or homeless animals. There is also an option to donate to Woolsey Fire relief when using the code “hiddenhills” at checkout.

In the relatively short time since its creation, Karma Candle Club has built a steady following of recipients who each month find something special and enlightening at their door. It’s an achievement that makes both Ryan and Garrett proud of what they’ve created. “Two good friends doing what we love and being able to help other people in the process,” says Garrett. “It doesn’t get much better than that!”

KARMA CANDLE CLUB karmacandleclub.com

Dr. Katrina Babcock D.O.

WRITTEN BY BRIELLE FRASER

WE SERVICE OUR COMMUNITY THE BEST WAY WE CAN AND GIVE OUR PATIENTS THE BEST SERVICES WE CAN PROVIDE.

-DR. KATRINA BABCOCK D.O.

Hydration and proper nutrition are not always at the top of anyone’s to-do list. Oftentimes, we forget in the midst of busy schedules and various obligations to put our health and wellness as the top priority. Dr. Katrina Babcock D.O. is there to not only ensure her patients are well taken care of, but also to serve as a reminder to them that their health comes first before all other items on that to-do list.

Dr. Babcock has been a practicing doctor of osteopathic medicine for over 15 years, specializing in nonsurgical orthopedics. She is board certified in physical medicine as well as rehabilitation, which has allowed her to open up two successful offices--one is located in Thousand Oaks and the other in the West Hollywood area. Along with the two office fronts, she also has doctors who perform house calls for patients in addition to administering nutritional and hydration IV’s to those who are working on movie/TV sets and at studios.

“I give nutritional IV’s that consist of Vitamin C, B-12, amino acids and minerals; and all are customized for the person’s particular problem,” Dr. Babcock explains. “These IV’s are mainly used if you feel like you’re coming down with a cold or the flu, or because your diet is deficient or you’re not getting enough hydration.”

The administering of IV fluid is essential before a night of attending any type of function, especially the upcoming holiday parties if you know you won’t properly be retaining hydration. They are even utilized for the morning after a long night to make sure your hangover is cured quickly and efficiently so you can go about your day without feeling the effects of hydration deficiency. Dr. Babcock and her nurse practitioners also specialize in Craniosacral therapy for those who suffer from migraines and muscle pain.

“Craniosacral therapy is a manual medicine that is very gentle with minimal velocity, which helps with neck, shoulder or back pain,” Dr. Babcock says. “It also aids with sciatica pain, as well as migraines. It gets the job done.”

Dr. Babcock’s office also offers IV fluids that help with weight loss for those patients experiencing difficulty with diet and exercise alone. The IV drips are crucial for improving immune system functions and leave patients feeling healthier and happier after they have had the treatment done.

“We service our community the best way we can...” Dr. Babcock says. “...and give our patients with best services we can provide.”

325 Rolling Oaks Dr #220 Westlake Village, CA 91361 (805) 379-9911

rehabwellnessla.com

DR. KATRINA BABCOCK D.O.

SHOP LOCAL

General Store Blackbird

CREATE YOUR OWN GIFT BOX

Come fill a unique branded-wood Blackbird Box to creative the perfect custom gift for your friends, family and clients. We wrap them beautifully and can deliver or ship anywhere in the U.S. Or…let us do all the work and create something perfectly curated according to your needs. Pictured here. “Our House” Gift Box $185.

LEATHER WINE BAR $458

Vintage Style Wine Bar reminiscent of Speakeasies of days long past. Beautifully finished in leather, wood, nickel & brass. Fill with two bottles of wine for a gift never to be forgotten or just keep for yourself to add the perfect touch of character and class to your home.

BLACKBIRD GENERAL STORE

23504 Calabasas Rd. Calabasas, CA 91302

(818) 805-9205

blackbirdgeneralstore.com

Connoisseur Commodities For Him:

Bourbon & Single-Malt Scotch infused toothpicks Great stocking stuffer or party favor

Alkemista is an all in one spirits infusion vessel. Add fruits, spices, herbs, or botanicals to your favorite spirit. Now, anyone can craft and serve fresh custom infused cocktails at home.

Sleek & discreet this stainless steel credit card bottle opener fits perfectly in his wallet for a brewski on the go.

Cozy & Chic:

Mohair Throw- Feathery texture. Elegant design. Refined color palate. A cherished sweater reincarnated. Woven in the United Kingdom. 54”x72”

These delicately soft cashmere blankets feature modern prints and are handmade on traditional looms by handicapped artisans in Nepal. 100% Hand loomed Himalayan Cashmere

Woven Cotton Tassel Robe. Made with a luxurious blend of cotton and linen, these one-size-fits-all fringed robes will keep you warm and cozy all winter long. Handmade in India

PIRETTE Dry Body Oil is the ultimate multitasking mist comprised of Fractionated Coconut Oil + Macadamia

Seed Oil + Vitamin E, infused with our flagship scent. This fast absorbing base leaves skin silky smooth without clogging pores or feeling greasy. Loaded with antioxidants, this is moisturizing made easy. Paraben, silicone, sulfate, phthalate, and phosphate free. Vegan and cruelty free. PIRETTE Dry Body Oil is made in the USA.

A Nordic Holiday:

Keep warm this season with these wool accents inspired by vintage Swiss military symbol. Pouf, blanket, and euro sham.

Holiday Lights:

Geo Candles: Cast in unscented wax from forms originally created by turning beeswax on a lathe. These candles make an amazing decor.

Match Striker: Our handmade ceramic match striker are a lovely compliment to any candle collection. Comes in black and white.

CHANDELIERS & TULIPS

28857 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills, CA 91301 (805) 807-4704

chandeliersandtulips.com

Chandeliers

& Tulips

M.FREDRIC

M FREDRIC - MAURITIUS SHEEP SKIN LEATHER JACKET

Made of 100% lamb skin the Mauritius Sheep Skin Leather Jacket features the softest leather material, beautiful gunmetal hardware and distressed white leather stars at back. M.FREDRIC. $268.

M FREDRIC - FLOWERS BY ZOE

FAUX FUR STAR JACKET

Every girl will be a star in this Flowers By Zoe Faux Fur Star Jacket. It features a zipper front with black & white contrasting varsity-like hemlines & faux leather black stars at front. M.FREDRIC. $100.

M.FREDRIC

22283 Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas, CA 91302 (818) 223-8400

mfredric.com

Calabasas Olive Alchemy

SAVOR THE FLAVORS OF ULTRA PREMIUM FRESH EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL & AGED BALSAMIC VINEGAR

Over 30 varieties on tap, available for tasting and poured fresh, perfect for gifts or shared among family and friends. $12-32 ea.

OLIVE ALCHEMY CALABASAS

4774 Park Granada #5, Calabasas, CA 91302 (747) 226-3767

olivealchemy.net

Rare Guitars Norman's

NORMAN'S RARE GUITARS

18969 Ventura Boulevard

Tarzana, CA 91356

(818) 344-8300

normansrareguitars.com

Dog Beds K9

K9 DOG BEDS TEAMS UP!

Hidden Hills Residents Sean Farley of k9dogbeds.com and designer Wendy Bellissimo have teamed up to create a line of durable, easy clean, slipcovered luxury pet beds that look great in your home. Available in a stylish mix & match collection of Wendy’s designer prints on a variety of shapes, sizes and firmness levels that your fur babies will love. k9dogbeds.com/designer

A. 1964 Gibson SG Standard owned by Tom Petty and used while on tour with Bob Dylan, includes a stage worn Top-hat also signed by Tom. 150k. B. 2001 Gibson L-5CES formerly owned by guitar great Les Paul, purchased from his estate auction. $15k. C. 1953 Fender Telecaster in original Butterscotch Blonde finish with black guard. One of the cleanest examples ever seen of one of the earliest solid body electric guitar. $65k.

B.

C.

A.

PAIGE

EVERETT SHIRT: Classic in shape, this long sleeve button-up is made with brushed cotton rayon for a supremely soft and comfortable fit. The Everett Shirt is highlighted with double chest pockets and rubberized metal buttons in an updated contemporary plaid.

GIOVANNA CAMI: The Giovanna Cami is made from polyester satin for a lightweight, smooth fit with a very flattering drape. Featuring a painted rose print, this ultra feminine top is detailed with a cowl neck and adjustable straps.

FEDERAL: Federal, our best-selling style, is a five-pocket jean with a slim straight fit. These jeans are made with our cutting-edge TRANSCEND denim for a fit with supreme stretch, softness, and flexibility. In a clean and dark wash, these jeans are detailed with tonal stitching and matte black hardware for a refined and tailored finish.

HOXTON VELVET SKINNY: pants are made with our luxurious stretch velvet for an ultra skinny, flattering fit. Featured in a bright and bold cherrycolored wash, these velvet pants are detailed with tonal stitching and silver hardware for a clean and glamorous finish.

TORI JACKET: The Tori Jacket, made with a cotton lyocell blend, is trimmed with soft, ivory-colored faux shearling. Cropped in fit, this vintage-inspired denim jacket features strong seamlines, angular pockets, and a raw hemline in a classic medium wash.

JOSEPHINE JACKET: The Josephine Jacket, oversized in shape, features a bright sequin rose embellishment. Relaxed in fit with an easy drape, this vintage-inspired jacket is detailed with strong seamlines, soft fading, and destructed finishes in a light indigo wash.

MILITARY BOMBER: This classic bomber jacket is made with our new TRANSCEND KNIT for a supremely soft and comfortable fit. Made with expert construction, this jacket features a soft jersey lining, zipper front, rib knit trimming, and military-inspired epaulettes detailed with silver studs.

Le Concept Store French

CAKE TOPPER: ASK FOR PRICE

CANDLE-GRAND CHALET: $94

Astier de Villatte is one-of-a-kind brand who handcrafts its signature ceramics, glassware, and candles in an antique Bastille workshop, historically home to Napoleon Bonaparte’s own silver smith.

SPEEDSTER FIREMAN: $165

GAS STATION PUMP: $203.5

Baghera is a world renowned producer of children’s metal cars in near Paris. They are making all the kids’ dreaming cars.

FRENCH - LE CONCEPT STORE

23528 Calabasas Road, B Calabasas, California 91302

(747) 226-3996

french.us

Polacheck's Jewelers

POLACHECK

4719 Commons Way Calabasas, CA 91302

(818) 225-0600

polachecks.com

PLATINUM 10.03CT RADIANT CUT 3 STONE DIAMOND RING

with trapezoids by Rahaminov Diamonds

DÉGUSTATEUR-MARCO POLO TEA, TEAPOT

AND TEA CADDY SPOON SET: $134

Mariage Frères, an oldest tea company founded in Paris in 1854, is credited with creating a uniquely French tea tradition they refer to as The French Art of Tea.

Sunroom

SUNROOM

3900 Cross Creek Rd #3A Malibu, CA 90265 (310) 317-0944

shopsunroom.com

MOHAIR COAT IN NUDE BY MAIAMI: PRICE $790

Established by Maike Dietrich, the label Maiami focuses on colorful luxury knitwear based out of Berlin, Germany. At Sunroom, we're proud to add another environmentally conscious label. Maiami specializes in transparent manufacturing processes, sustainable material selections, and slow fashion designs.

Details:

• Lightweight open front overcoat with long bell sleeves

• Longline silhouette

• Detachable belt to cinch the waist and for closure

• Mohair and merino wool blend

• Hand knit in Berlin

• Fits true to size

LICOL DIAMOND BRACELET FROM ANNA SHEFFIELD: PRICE $5,000

Inspired by the alluring juxtaposition between contemporary and timeless, Anna Sheffield creates jewelry meant to be worn for generations. Never going out of date, her collections are "as unique as the person it adorns".

Details:

• Classic and feminine bangle features a delicate line of channel-set, half eternity row of grey diamonds with half gold rivets and a clasp closure with hook lock.

• 1.37ctw grey diamonds set in 14K yellow gold

TOSCANO CLUTCH IN SILVER BY OFFICINA DEL POGGIO: PRICE $685

Allison Hoeltzel Savini's fascination with vintage, utilitarian, saddlery led to the establishment of Officina Del Poggio. Each ODP collection is designed, developed, and manufactured in Tuscany. By using an ecofriendly tanning process, the highest standard of Italian vacchetta leather, and passionate craftsmanship, ODP bags are guaranteed to wear well with time.

Details:

• Inspired by vintage cigar cases

• Slim, sleek design meant to be a closet staple

• Wooden form, covered in indigo snakeskin leather

• Features a gold magnetic closure and suede lining

• Can fit an Iphone plus

• Handcrafted individually by artisans in Tuscany, Italy

• Dimensions: 18cm length | 15cm height | 5cm gusset

NUBIA CRESCENT BROWN STONE NECKLACE FROM CVC STONES: PRICE $3,640

Handcrafted in New York City, each piece from CVC Stones exhibits a classic design made up of uniquely sourced polished stones, the finest quality diamonds, and 18 karat gold. At Sunroom, we love the one of a kind, delicate nature of the necklaces.

Details:

• Crescent-shaped brown stone with brilliant diamonds set into a fine gold bezel

• One 0.25ct large round diamond & three small 0.045ct round diamond

• 30" 18k yellow gold chain

• 0.295ct total diamond weight

a hand made success story CHANTEL GIA

BY DEBBIE YANUCK | PHOTOS BY LINDSEY BEST

When Chantel Gia’s (Poynton) best friend, MJ Carlson, began “Electric Picks Jewelry” in 2011, Chantel was there with advice and support as MJ designed and created bracelets from vintage guitar picks. While traveling together, MJ and Chantel realized they each offered something unique as a duo. In 2013, Chantel became a full-time partner and the business expanded to necklaces, anklets and bracelets made from gemstones, fine metals and, as always, authentic guitar picks. Their jewelry is inspired by music and artistry. Each piece is named after a song, a movie, or lyrics from a song.

Both came to the designing aspect from a young age; MJ made and sold friendship bracelets in the third grade, while Chantel devoured a “how to” book on making seed bead and wire rings that her then 5-year-old daughter had tossed aside. Using YouTube and the book, Chantel taught herself to

make jewelry, a passion she fulfills daily. Notepads rest on counters and side tables for Chantel to make drawings and notes as inspiration strikes.

Originally from Connecticut, Chantel also lived in New York City, Chicago, Northern California, Miami Beach and now Hidden Hills. She says, “I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to have lived in some of the greatest cities in the United States.” She believes that the diversity of each of those cities is reflected through her designs. She loves to travel and explore new places, often drawing upon past experiences for inspiration for new designs and to fuel her creativity.

Chantel attributes her love of creating to her childhood, as her father, a talented builder, designed and built many of the homes where her family lived. She often helped her father with some of the designs for

ELECTRIC PICKS JEWELRY COFOUNDER AND HIDDEN HILLS RESIDENT CHANTEL GIA POYNTON

AT RIGHT: PIECES LIKE THE "TEARS IN HEAVEN" EARRINGS AND "GOLDEN GIRL" BRACELET ARE FIRST HAND DESIGNED BY CHANTEL IN HER HOME STUDIO.

OPPOSITE PAGE: THE "STARLIGHT" 2 LAYER NECKLACE AND ONE OF ELECTRIC PICKS SIGNATURE PIECES FEATURING REAL GUITAR PICKS.

their homes and remembers spending time on the job sites where she built items with the tools and scrap wood she gathered. When she first started to learn about jewelry design and all the tools required, she found comfort in the familiarity of it all, as many of the tools are similar, just smaller.

She graduated from college with two degrees: one in Fashion Design and another in Fashion Merchandising. Both enabled her to enter the business with design and business savvy. Chantel works out of her in-home jewelry studio and finds inspiration in all that she sees. Her muse comes from many aspects of her life: her love of travel, interior design, a minimalist aesthetic and even simple quotes. All are important to the crafting of her work.

While MJ lives in New York and Chantel in L.A., they spend a few weeks together bi-annually creating their fall/winter

CHANTEL AND MJ MAKE THE PERFECT PARTNERSHIP, BALANCING EACH OTHER’S STRENGTHS WHILE BUILDING UPON ONE ANOTHER'S DESIGNS TO CREATE ENTIRE COLLECTIONS.

and spring/summer collections. Once the pieces are completed and approved, their production team, located in the Garment District of NYC, replicates their jewelry. All pieces are made in the U.S., which is important to them. Their jewelry is sold coast to coast in over 300 shops and online through their website, with their business continuing to grow.

Chantel and MJ make the perfect partnership, balancing each other’s strengths while building upon one another's designs to create entire collections. They are very hands-on, preferring to play with the materials and see where inspiration strikes. Chantel says, “One of best parts of having each other to bounce ideas off of is that we are always encouraging one another, which motivates us to take our creativity even further.” Singers, actors and other artists have become fans, with Britney Spears wearing a bracelet

and a necklace throughout one of her (10 costume change) concerts.

Some of the pieces are made from vintage coins, some are multi-layered necklaces, while others are made from gemstones. MJ and Chantel strive to make their jewelry “…look as timeless as music [is]…” Each season brings a different design. This year Chantel says she is all about fashioning “… dainty pieces made for layering.” Chantel loves that each piece comes from a different vision, which keeps her and her work from becoming stagnant.

Living in Hidden Hills for the past two years with her husband, two children, Olivia – 14 and Caden – 10, gives Chantel a place to create in nature. The quiet tree-lined streets offer views and places to walk, think and invent. Saturday evenings are for family when Chantel’s brother and parents come over for dinner, completing the week with family time together. Every day offers a new revelation that Chantel uses to enrich her life and her craft.

CHANTEL ATTRIBUTES HER LOVE OF CREATING TO HER CHILDHOOD, AS HER FATHER, A TALENTED BUILDER, DESIGNED AND BUILT MANY OF THE HOMES WHERE HER FAMILY LIVED.

CHANTEL LOVES THAT EACH PIECE COMES FROM A DIFFERENT VISION, WHICH KEEPS HER AND HER WORK FROM BECOMING STAGNANT.

MAKING TRACKS

Fillmore blends fascinating and folkloric American railway history with small town holiday charm.

BY ELYSE GLICKMAN | PHOTOS COURTESY OF FILMORE/WESTERN RAILWAY

The beauty of living in California is that there are so many perfect city escapes with all-ages appeal just a few hours' drive from Hidden Hills. Posh Santa Barbara, health-conscious and arty Ojai, and boho-chic Ventura are all less than an hour away, and by now, getaway standbys for Hidden Hills families. However those looking for something a little more off the beaten paths-or tracks--will find the lesser-known, historypacked Fillmore a delightful surprise.

The expansive valley was first "discovered" in 1769 by European explorers in the Spanish Portola expedition who were sent to see what lay in Inland California. Through the 19thcentury, the agricultural area with rich and fertile soil drew enterprising settlers in its early years. This later led to the establishment of a downtown business district in 1887, thanks in part to Southern Pacific building the railroad through the valley. J. A. Fillmore, a general superintendent for the company's Pacific system, became the namesake for the future town, which was officially incorporated in 1914.

This little town that could is about 45 minutes up Hwy 126 and reveals itself to be a fantastic destination for movie buffs. Fillmore & Western Railway Co. (fwry.com), located in the center of Fillmore, is known locally as the "Home of the Movie Trains." Its impressive list of over 700 film and television credits includes Water for Elephants, Sea Biscuit, Get Smart, Bedtime Stories, Race to Which Mountain, Tall Tail, Inception, Anger Management, Fear Factor, X-Files, Bones, Westworld, Deadwood, American Horror Story, Criminal Minds and CSI.

The railroad offers full-on immersive and interactive experiences via its many train adventures. Throughout the year, tours such as "Weekend Scenic Adventures" and "Murder Mystery Comedy Lunch & Dinner" trains are

available. Beyond that, some of the trains can be reserved for private groups. With the arrival of winter, Holiday train excursions, including the nighttime "North Pole Express" and daytime "Sugar Plum Express," will be running from Nov 24th to Dec 26th for families to enjoy. On the three-hour Sugar Plum Express, holiday dreams spring to life during daylight hours, with Santa taking charge as the conductor of this magical ride to Holiday Village (a satellite of the North Pole at Loose Caboose)! On arrival, the family can select a pre-cut Christmas Tree, purchase fine gifts and edible goodies, and actually go walking in a Winter Wonderland walk-thru. Every holiday television special you remember from childhood is brought to life with Holiday Jolly Jumpers, craft vendors, and Santa's Workshop

BEFORE THE SITE BECAME ONE OF HOLLYWOOD'S FAVORITE REMOTE BACK LOTS, IT WAS (AND CONTINUES TO BE) A PLACE WHERE THE ICONS OF AMERICA'S COAST-TO-COAST EXPANSION IS PRESERVED.

in addition to koi fish, goats and birds. The one-hour nighttime North Pole Express, meanwhile, is warm and cozy, and with storytelling, caroling, cookies and chocolate milk galore, courtesy of Santa and the elves. Following the ride, the family can enjoy craft vendors at Santa’s Village and a carousel ride.]

Before the site became one of Hollywood's favorite remote back lots, it was (and continues to be) a place where the icons of America's coast-to-coast expansion is preserved. The site is home to vintage passenger and dining cars dating back as far as 1914, as well as a 1913 fully restored and operating #14 Baldwin Steam Engine. The Fillmore Historical Museum is the perfect companion destination for the railway, with displays of artifacts from families and businesses that shaped the region. It also has an extensive local history photo collection and documents from the historic Rancho Sespe, along

with a library of local and southwestern history. The adjunct Hinckley House, occupying a 1905 Craftsman bungalow, highlights the artistic accomplishments of Lawrence Hinckley, a talented cartoonist and painter in Fillmore in the 1930′s and 1940′s.

Thanks to Southern California's mild climate, Fillmore's outdoor activities and destinations are accessible throughout the year, including the Fillmore Fish Hatchery, Sheiell Park, the Giessinger Winery, and hiking in the nearby San Gabriel Mountains. While downtown Fillmore has numerous quaint shops, Lost and Found Depot and Ragtyme Antiques are favorites. Foodies, meanwhile, will be sweet on Bennett's Honey Farm, which sells edible and non-edible honey products for kitchen and home.

The town's independently owned restaurants, meanwhile, blend a touch of

the farm-to-table zeitgeist with all-out appeal for kids and adults alike. Greek family-owned Yanni's Best (yannisbest. net) may be a short order place, but it is one that’s never short on selection. The menu features Middle Eastern selections as well as solid burgers, snacks and breakfasts. Favorites include lamb gyros, falafel sandwiches, and roasted chicken dishes accented with Greek yogurt. There’s also Central Station Bar and Grill (centralstation.online), a full-on gastro-pub with an expansive assortment of craft beers plus hand-crafted soups, salads, pizzas and burgers. Mexican restaurants abound, but El Pescador (elpescadorinfillmore.com) is a local mainstay for its familial environment, nice plating and diverse selection of south-ofthe-border classics.

For more information on Fillmore and its attractions and events, visit destinationfillmore.com

Learning forward at Sierra Canyon is both a mindset and an action.

On our energizing campuses, students gain unstoppable momentum to learn and explore, propelling them toward lifelong success.

We invite your family to experience our entrepreneurial program.

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Grades Pre-K– 12

paradise CLEAR BLUE

In a world where decisions, events and lifestyles are all heavily influenced by social media, travel is by far the most popular category. With the simple tap of a button, users can find just about any information they would need to choose a hotel, decide what restaurants to eat at, plan their vacation style and

even map out their activities. With this extensive search tool, a lot of places that were once considered “off the map” or secret destinations are now thriving as leading tourist havens around the world. Among the most popular are Greece, Bali, Italy and a few random “photo ops” scattered around the globe; but when it comes to a beach destination,

a little chain of islands in the Bahamas takes the cake.

The Exumas are a chain of 365 islands and cays just south of the island of Nassau. They range in size, with the largest at only 37 miles long and the smallest being just large enough to fit you and your significant other on. Every stop in the chain provides travelers

words and photos by Jake Warner

with unreal white sand beaches, palm trees, authentic island life and the clearest, most pristine waters on earth. Because the average water depth surrounding the islands is no more than 10-20 feet, the white sand bottoms and coral reefs cause the water color to be absolutely flawless, thus making every photo taken here worthy of an award. Although the scenery and culture of the Exumas

is as good as it gets, the real treat of the islands is its remoteness. Unlike Nassau and other Bahamian and Caribbean islands, the Exumas doesn’t encompass many resorts or tourist hubs. Almost every island, even the most populated, operates on a simple basis. Casinos, waterslides, giant hotels and cruise ships are nowhere to be found. Instead, travelers get to experience paradise

in a personal, private setting. The opportunity to have a beach all to yourself or to explore without group tours involved is easily in your grasp, even in the busier seasons. As far as activities go, every island and cay offers something different. Some are not suitable for a trip but more for an afternoon adventure or a place to dock for a night or two if you’re on a boat. If you want to

WHETHER BY CHARTERED YACHT OR LAND BASED RESORT, EXUMA CAY IN THE BAHAMAS IS THE MOST BEAUTIFULLY UNIQUE, FAMILY FRIENDLY GETAWAY

PICTURED: (RIGHT) A PICTURESQUE CARRIBEAN FISHING VILLAGE.

FRESH CONCH SALAD AT THE CHAT 'N' CHILL BAR, STOCKING ISLAND.

(BOTTOM) INSTA-FAMOUS "PIG ISLAND" IS AND ABSOLUTE MUST SEE.

A SNORKLER'S PARADISE.

SAIL TO IGUANA ISLAND AND THE FRIENDLY REPTILE INHABITANTS COME DOWN TO GREET YOU.

AS FAR AS ACTIVITIES GO, EVERY ISLAND AND CAY OFFERS SOMETHING DIFFERENT. SOME ARE NOT SUITABLE FOR A TRIP BUT MORE FOR AN AFTERNOON ADVENTURE OR A PLACE TO DOCK FOR A NIGHT OR TWO IF YOU’RE ON A BOAT.

swim with the nurse sharks, don’t worry, they’re like dogs, and Compass Cay is then the destination for you. Staniel Cay is home to the Staniel Cay Yacht Club, a world famous bar. A swim away is the thunderball grotto, the large cavernous rock formation where James Bond’s “Thunderball” was filmed in the 60’s. An easy 20 minute boat ride from there you can swim with the world famous pigs. Years ago, somebody began populating a small island with baby pigs. Locals and tourists began treating

them like pets, bringing them food and constantly hanging out with them. Now there are more than 30 living in the palm forest lining the beach, coming out every hour or so to swim with anyone who wants to play. If you visit, I suggest you bring a box of cereal to feed them; frosted flakes are their favorite. Among the islands, tourists will find that activities such as snorkeling, fishing and boating are available in the rawest, most perfect situations. If there is something in particular you wish to do in the ocean, one of the islands will be able to provide.

If you decide you would like to visit the Exumas, there are a couple of ways to do it. In order to experience multiple islands and destinations within one trip, chartering a boat is the most efficient choice. Depending on your group’s size and budget, everything from a 25 ft. catamaran all the way up to a 200 ft. yacht is available to be

Huntover provides hunter and jumper training programs designed for the competitive pony, junior and amateur rider at the local, national and international level.

“In order to experience multiple islands and destinations within one trip, chartering a boat is the most efficient choice.”

PICTURED: COVES AND GROTTOS ABOUND! THERE IS NO SHORTAGE OF AQUATIC WONDERS IN THE EXUMAS PICTURED: THE "THUNDERBALL" GROTTO

chartered privately, with pick-up and drop-off at the Atlantis Hotel on Nassau. This type of trip may be pricey, but the experience is truly one of a kind. The chartered boats will come with a crew that consists of a captain, first mate, deck hand and chef, enabling you and your party to experience a real “vacation” without being set on one location. Every morning you will have a new itinerary for a new island and every evening will consist of a new dinner setting filled with themed activities and meals. If a stationary, resort-style trip is more your speed, there are many options despite the remoteness of the islands. The Grand Isle Resort is a perfect family spot to enjoy a week of fun and relaxation. It is located on the island of Great Exuma and allows guests to have a true Bahamian experience. Everything from the design, amenities and

accommodations is all specifically tailored to offer a true Exuma vacation. If a private home is what you prefer, Staniel Rents located on Staniel Cay is the perfect destination. Accessible via a short flight from Nassau, the two private homes are recently built to offer their guests the ultimate in a private beach front property experience. The great thing about staying here is that it is only a 30 minute boat ride from the majority of the top destinations in the Exumas, allowing guests to experience all of the fun and popular activities without losing too much “relaxation time.”

However you prefer to travel and whatever your family size, the Exumas offer a once in a lifetime experience for all. The water, activities, food and people will leave guests feeling sad to depart for home and eager to come back.

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!

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.

EVERY MORNING YOU WILL HAVE A NEW ITINERARY FOR A NEW ISLAND AND EVERY EVENING WILL CONSIST OF A NEW DINNER SETTING FILLED WITH THEMED ACTIVITIES AND MEALS.

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE

SERVING SAN FERNANDO VALLEY AND LOS ANGELES SINCE 1988

At Factor Surfaces, we provide a remarkable experience and develop a relationship not just a transaction with out clients. We deliver exceptional service and products. In our showroom in Woodland hills, our thoughtfully curated collections of imported ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, quartz, limestone, onyx, slate, travertine, glass, metal, granite, marble, mosaics, laminate flooring, hardwood flooring, and accessories represents the finest materials available in the world. Our retail and design showroom, allows for a true one of a kind service and experience.

of

A WHISKEY THREESOME Bold Fashion

COCKTAILS

BY KYLE BRANCHE

THE DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING OF THESE DRINKS REPRESENTS ORNATE ARCHITECTURE – INTRICATE. COMPLEX. DECORATED.

-KYLE BRANCHE

THE MIXOLOGIST

Kyle Branche is a veteran Los Angeles professional and private mixologist and author, whose latest work is a 10-book set titled Cocktail Hotel (Available on Amazon). He is also the creator and site runner of the online global directory for all things bitters, BittersHub.wordpress. com.

For this feature, Branche has created three specialty signature cocktails that are, in-part, of a seasonal nature. These drinks take their direction from a classic preparation that covers the four basics of a cocktail – Spirit, Sugar, Water, Bitters. The design, construction and building of these drinks represents ornate architecture – Intricate. Complex. Decorated. All three are of a muddled base – one with peaches, one with pears, and the other with plums. All three are of a whiskey base – one Bourbon, one Rye, and one Scotch.

They highlight and provide a glimpse into the past and present history of bitters, in this case of a woodsy nature that depicts a sense of 12th century wildcrafting. Each cocktail is differentiated in subtlety, with breaths of bitters which each bring their own distinct story and essence.

If you want to try and create these masterworks at home you can get more information on each of the bitters utilized at Branche's blog. Or just hire Branche for your next event! 818.225.8009

the Storyville

GLASS Large Tumbler

ICE Cubed or Cracked

PREP Build in Glass

Start with 6-8 thin slices of fresh peach at the bottom of the glass. Add 2 1/2 droppers of fresh mint-infused simple syrup. Add 1 1/2 droppers of Luxardo Maraschino liqueur. Add 4 drops of Napa Valley Pumpkin Spice bitters. Add 2 drops of Napa Valley Black Walnut bitters. Add 3 drops of Apothecary Mason Dixon (Southern Culture) bitters - pecans, peaches, sarsaparilla, smoke. Add 2 atomizes of Apothecary Elder Growth bitters - Douglas Fir, dried berries, baking spices. Muddle All gently.

Add 1 1/2 - 2 oz. of Knob Creek small batch 100 proof Kentucky

straight bourbon whiskey – aged 9 years. (Option 1 - Add 1/4 - 1/2 oz. of Perrier L'Orange flavored sparkling mineral water. Option 2 - Add 1/41/2 oz. of Santa Cruz organic cherry lemonade). Fill Glass with Ice to above/over the top.

Add 2 atomizes of Napa Valley Toasted Oak bitters. Add 1 atomizes of Napa Valley Bitter Elegance bitters - plums, port, wormwood, spices, herbs. Add 2 atomizes of Dashfire Bourbon Barrel-Aged Orange bitters. Add 1 atomizes of Black Cloud Charred Cedar bitters. Garnish with a kinked zest of fresh Tangerine peel, rim around the glass a few times.

GLASS Large Tumbler

ICE Cubed or Cracked

PREP Build in Glass

Start with 6-8 thin slices of black plum at the bottom of the glass. Add 2 1/2 droppers of fresh mintinfused simple syrup. Add 1 1/2 droppers of Redcliff liqueur. (Available only at Wine & Liquor Depot –Lake Balboa). Add 4 drops of Apothecary “Spirit Fire” Cherry Cedar bitters. Add 2 drops of 18.21’s Havana & Hide bitters. Add 3 drops of Portland Bitters Project’s Woodland bitters. Muddle all gently.

Add 1 1/2 - 2 oz. of Whistle Pig 100 proof straight Rye – aged 10 years. (Option - Add 1/4 - 1/2 oz. of Perrier L'Orange flavored sparkling mineral water).

Fill Glass with ice to above/over the top. Add 4 drops of Salud Satsuma orange bitters. Add 2 drops of Napa Valley Wild West Whiskey Sarsaparilla bitters. Add 3 drops of Black Cloud Black & Blue bitters. Add 2 atomizes of Napa Valley Toasted Oak bitters. Garnish with a round-cut slice of black plum.

GLASS Large Tumbler

ICE Cubed or Cracked

PREP Build in Glass

Start with 6-8 thin slices of Red Anjou pear at the bottom of the glass. Add 2 1/2 droppers of fresh mint-infused simple syrup. Add 1 1/2 droppers of Napa Valley brandy cordial. Add 3 drops of Bitter Girl Pear Jordan bitters, Bartlett pears and Cascade hops. Add 4 drops of Apothecary General Ambrose aromatic bitters. Add 2 drops of Dashfire Old Fashioned bitters. Add 2 drops Miracle Mile Toasted Pecan bitters. Muddle All gently.

Add 1 1/2 - 2 oz. of Glenmorangie “Quinta Ruban Port Cask Finish” 92-proof Highland single malt scotch – aged 12 years. (OptionAdd 1/4 - 1/2 oz. of Perrier L'Orange flavored sparkling mineral water).

Fill Glass with Ice to above/over the top. Add 4 drops of Crude Persimmon & Apple bitters. Add 3 drops of Crude Spruce & Birch bitters. Add 2 atomizes of Napa Valley Toasted Oak bitters. Garnish with a round-cut slice of Red Anjou pear.

DEBBY LOGGIA &

CALIFORNIA WILDLIFE CENTER

WRITTEN BY DEBBIE YANUCK | PORTRAIT BY LINDSEY BEST

WILDLIFE PHOTOS COURTESY OF CALIFORNIA WILDLIFE CENTER

MMy first correspondence with long-time Hidden Hills resident Debby Loggia was an email that read, “…I am transporting a red-tailed hawk…and have to minimize voice to help keep him calm…” She had me at ‘red-tailed hawk’ and then she had me all over again when I heard the passion and commitment in her voice as she detailed her work as a volunteer with the Marine Mammal Rescue Team at the California Wildlife Center (CWC) in Calabasas. Occupying an old ranger station in the Santa Monica Mountains, on land provided by California State Parks, since 1998, CWC has cared for over 45,000 native species of birds, mammals and reptiles and rescued hundreds of sick and injured marine mammals along the Malibu coastline from Topanga to Leo Carrillo.

In 2013, an “unusual mortality event” overwhelmed existing marine mammal rehab centers with sick and dying California Sea Lions, prompting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Alliance (“NOAA”) to ask CWC if they would consider building their own marine mammal rehabilitation facility to cope with the high number of sea lions turning up on California beaches. With the help of private donors and generous foundations, CWC opened its Marine Mammal Rescue Facility in 2013 where it has successfully rehabilitated and released hundreds of California Sea Lions and Northern Elephant Seals (referred to as “Ellie’s”) every year. Debby’s enthusiasm for CWC is contagious as she talks about the help they provide to wildlife and the human lives that encounter them.

When Debby and her husband, Joe, encountered an injured and struggling seagull in their neighbor’s driveway, a local veterinarian referred them to CWC. “We managed to get the gull in a dog carrier and bring him to CWC. Joe and I were so gratefulI can’t imagine anything worse than having to stand by helplessly with any animal that is suffering or struggling. In this way, I think CWC provides an incredible service to humans, especially those who

are lucky enough to live somewhere like Hidden Hills where wildlife encounters are not uncommon. A week later I called just to see if the gull survived and found out they repaired his broken wing and anticipated a speedy recovery.”

The mantra of CWC is “Rescue, Rehabilitate and Release,” and their mission includes conservation of natural habitat and educational outreach to promote environmental awareness and how to live harmoniously with wildlife. The public may not understand the impact simple acts have on the wild. Every year, CWC is inundated with baby birds and animals who have been inadvertently orphaned or injured when their nest is knocked down by tree trimmers. This can easily be avoided by trimming trees in the Fall and Winter months before birds’ mating season begins and birds are nesting. The devastating impact humans have on the environment when using any kind of rodenticide is not news; sickened rats can live for a week or longer, making them easy prey for owls, hawks and other animals, and they too will become sick and eventually die. It is not simply one owl that is killed; an entire nest of owl babies dies when the mother feeds them poisoned meat. Humans can wipe out a generation and upset any hope of a healthy and sustainable food chain. Debby says, “…it is all about coexistence… learning how to share our communities with wild animals, without harm.”

CWC’s hospital facilities include an intensive care and surgical unit, state of the art fawn and coyote enclosures, flight pens, a vector and rabies unit, and even a specialized skunk unit.

In addition to the 200 hours Debby has logged in the past year with the Marine Mammal unit, Debby also volunteers to help transport wildlife from local animal shelters to the center and tries to help with birds and small animal releases whenever possible. “My first release was a trio of orphaned mourning doves who had been cared for at CWC

CWC IMPRESSES ME WITH THEIR COMMITMENT TO MAKING THE VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE MEANINGFUL...

-DEBBY LOGGIA

until they were able to fend for themselves. When I opened their box, they flew to a nearby tree…and then they just stayed there! I watched worriedly for over an hour before they started to socialize and move from tree to tree. The Sea Lion and Ellie releases can be especially emotional - you are so happy for them, but you also worry that they won’t eat a good dinner... it feels a lot like that moment when your child goes off to college...you feel proud and excited

for them, but you can’t help but worry a little too.”

Debby jokes that Elephant Seals are “bad mothers.” They fast while they are breeding, then nurse for only one month on land before they abandon their pup who has never been in the water or eaten a fish until instinct kicks in and drives them into the sea to fend for themselves. Some learn faster than others or they are injured or too sick and they strand on shore. Sea Lions have much better parenting practices, but

CALIFORNIA WILDLIFE CENTER TAKES RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE PROTECTION OF NATIVE WILDLIFE THROUGH REHABILITATION, EDUCATION, AND CONSERVATION. IT IS DEDICATED TO THE RESCUE AND REHABILITATION OF NATIVE CALIFORNIA SPECIES, WHO OTHERWISE WOULD BE LEFT TO SUFFER FROM THE EFFECTS OF HUMAN ENCROACHMENT, HABITAT DESTRUCTION AND ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE.

THE DIVERSITY OF ANIMALS UNDER THE CARING EYE OF CWC VOLUNTEERS IS STAGGERING. FROM OPOSSUMS, TO BOBCATS TO SEA LIONS, CWC IS THERE WHENEVER POSSIBLE TO HELP CALIFORNIA'S STRUGGLING WILDLIFE.

unlike Elephant Seals who are deep divers (diving depths averaging 1,000 feet for 6090 minutes), Sea Lions swim and hunt 4-6 feet below the surface, increasing their chance of entanglement with fishing lines, nets or humans. “Being part of a team that helps any animal recover from injury or illness and severe malnourishment is just a great feeling but working with marine mammals is a whole new world for me. The Marine Mammal director and stranding coordinator are beyond patient and are so encouraging…the animal’s release back into the ocean is truly the ultimate reward.”

The staff and volunteers inspire Debby as much as her work with the animals. She says, “CWC impresses me with their commitment to making the volunteer experience meaningful and because of that, they avoid compartmentalizing responsibilities, even though I’m quite sure it would be easier for them if they did… there is so much to learn, from how to restrain an animal so it can be tube fed or medicated, to teaching an Elephant Seal how to eat fish, to moving animals from one space to another and most importantly, learning all the safety measures and protocols critical in keeping everyone, including our pinniped patients, safe and injuryfree…”

Marine mammal volunteers must commit to one 4-hour shift per week and during every shift, volunteers handle food prep, feeding, charting, dishes, laundry, cleaning...“There is no

shortage of going potty for these amazing creatures…” so there is always more cleaning along with handling any beach rescues, which Debby says “…can also be quite challenging…between cutting up fish, hosing down seal poop and maneuvering an extra-large dog crate, huge nets and a sea lion while climbing over a mountain of rocks in Malibu; to describe the work as physically demanding and not always the most glamorous might be an understatement …but I absolutely love it and I just feel so grateful to have the opportunity to be a small part of this mighty force for good.”

Debby logged over 200 hours at CWC since last January and her infectious passion remains strong. She feels that living with her husband and now grown daughters in Hidden Hills for the past 22 years only deepens her commitment to the caring of animals and the environment. She says, “Hidden Hills is intoxicating. Most people don’t see a horse on their way to work every day…and I do.” She believes that volunteering is more than important and says, “It doesn’t always have to be a grand gesture like rescuing an elephant seal; sometimes it’s just saying hello or reaching out to someone that might feel invisible that day…sometimes it’s just showing a little kindness to others – we could all do a little more of that, I think.” The world would be a pretty ‘intoxicating’ place if we all emulated people like Debby Loggia and the California Wildlife Center … don't you agree?

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!

WE WISH YOU AND YOURS

KIND AND GENTLE HOLIDAYS

Onbehalf of our f our-legged furkids From the START team

Spotlight on START Rescue

For seven years, START Rescue (“Shelter Transport Animal Rescue Team”) has been saving the lives of California euthanasia-listed shelter dogs and cats and relocating them via “The Beast” (our customized 38 ft animal transport RV) to trusted Partners in the Pacific Northwest where they are adopted out to wonderful “furever” homes.

Since START’s founding, over 10,000 dogs and 500 cats, all once-abandoned and neglected, have made the journey North to rich, wonderful lives. START also has a Spay/Neuter program that assists the underserved communities in Riverside, Antelope Valley, Delano and Porterville, CA. And, with your help, the START Team lends assistance to many others.

Watch Our Video To Learn More: https://youtu.be/pWr7UlDCS8k

facebook.com/STARTrescueteam instagram.com/STARTrescueteam

It is because of folks like YOU that START is able to continue doing this amazing life-saving work.

As this year comes to a close, for 2019, we’re looking to increase our relocation transports, saving an additional 1,000 more shelter animals and helping 1,000 more people get their furkids spayed/neutered.

We are a small but mighty group of dedicated volunteers. Please join us in our effort to achieve our 2019 goal by donating to START:

www.STARTrescue.org/donate or START Rescue PO Box 4792 Valley Village, CA 91617

White Corn Ravioli with european butter & shaved black truffles

For the Pasta Dough

• 1 1/2 cups Mondako flour

• 12 egg yolks

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp extra virgin olive oil

For the Corn Filling

• 1 lb. ground and cooked corn

• 2 oz. cooked Yukon potato

• 2 tbs Parmesan cheese

• 1 tbs truffle oil

• Pinch cayenne pepper

• 1/2 tsp salt

• Pinch ground white pepper

The Process

First, make the pasta dough for the raviolis by placing all of the ingredients together into a food processor for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture forms into one ball of dough. Remove from processor and place into the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.

While the dough is cooling, prepare the corn filling by placing all of the ingredients into the food processor and blending to a thick, creamy consistency.

Remove the cooled dough from the refrigerator and roll it through a pasta maker or use a hand roller to work it into a long, thin sheet, about 1/8 in. thick and 6 in. wide. Place the pasta sheet onto a surface dusted with the flour.

Using a pastry bag, place dollops of the filling about 3 inches apart. Fold the pasta sheet in half lengthwise then use your fingers to compress the dough around each dollop, forming a seal. Use a pasta cutter to trim around each ravioli. Cook the ravioli in slow-boiling, salted water for 2 - 3 minutes until they float to the top and are tender.

Gently toss ravioli with melted European butter, plate, and then top with shaved, Perigord black truffles.

Fire Grilled Branzino with roasted potato & vegetable gratin

The Fish

Branzino (European Sea Bass or Loup de Mer) 1 pound, scaled and cleaned.

The Herb Oil

A teaspoon each of parsley, oregano, thyme, rosemary, basil, chives and garlic, finely chopped and added to two cups of olive oil.

The Vegetables The Potato

Thin slices of Chinese eggplant, Mexican squash and San Marzano tomato.

The Grilling

A German butterball potato, baked for 1 hour at 350 degrees, then sliced very thin and dressed with herb oil and sea salt.

If you can grill over walnut wood embers, that is optimal, but any grill you use should be at medium heat. Dress the fish with the herb oil outside and in, and place in a grill basket, then place on the grill. About six minutes each side should do it!

The vegetables can also be skewered and grilled at the same time.

When plating, drizzle the fish, vegetables and potato with the herb oil and serve with a slice of Meyer lemon.

Tomato Vegetable Salad with gioia burrata cheese

There is plenty of room for creativity in this simple and sumptuous medley, bringing together local heirloom tomatoes and Santa Monica vegetables of your choosing. Root vegetables are boiled for 15 minutes in salt water, zucchini and green beans for 8 minutes.

Dress with Fontodi Olive Oil and Sea Salt and serve with Gioia burrata cheese.

Garnish with fresh basil.

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.

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

BUNNY BONANZA!

Hi my name is Sophia Sorensen and we have a lot of animals on our farm. But, today I am going to write about the bunnies. First we always used to let the bunnies out all together on the grass, but then 3 weeks later we saw that my bunny was making a nest. Then a week later she had the babies so we didn’t want them to be to hot so they got to live in my bathroom. A few weeks passed by and the bunnies could finally eat pellets so now that they were eating pellets I had to clean the cage everyday. All in all they're growing more and more everyday.

Hosted by Dana Olmes & Jeff

Hosted by Dana Olmes & Jeff

Hamptons in Hidden Hills

Resting on an exquisite 1.75+ acre view lot, this emotional Hamptons inspired estate is sited on one of Hidden Hills’ most prized cul-de-sacs. Re-imagined by renowned interior designers Tommy and Kathleen Clements of Clements Design Group, the residence offers approximately 8600 square feet of romantic, serene living space, with 6 superbly finished suites, including a separate guest suite with a balcony and a spacious pool house complete with kitchenette, loft and bathroom. Bleached pine wood wide plank flooring, exposed beamed ceilings, exquisite lighting detail, numerous statement fireplaces, multiple porches, and steel clad doors and wood windows are found throughout. The grand two story foyer flows into the dramatic living room, complete with professional wet bar and anchored by a stone sheathed floor to ceiling hearth. The elegant formal dinning room overlooks the wooded front grounds and enchanting veranda. Showcasing a marble clad hand carved center island/prep table, the culinary kitchen affords open faced display shelving, rustic beamed ceiling, and beautiful copper accented hood with professional style range. Exposed beams and metal clad vaulted ceiling complements the adjacent den with breakfast area and one of many interior fireplaces. The great room transitions seamlessly into the outdoor living room with fireplace and television providing a year round expansive entertaining enclave. A first floor master suite incorporates organic design elements, stunning garden views, fireplace, dual walk-in closets and spa-like bath quarters with view soaking tub. The state of the art THX home theater is a movie lover’s delight, ideal for an intimate family night in or hosted screening alike. Meticulous park-like grounds, velvet green lawns and rich perimeter landscaping designed for ultimate privacy.

5555 Dixon Trail Road

6 Bed | 9 Bath

$10,500,000

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. We are truly leading our clientele into The Future of Real Estate.