Hidden Hills Community Register • January 2022

GET READY FOR THE WINTER SOCIAL!

JANUARY 22nd

EQUESTRIAN VAULTING EVENT

JANUARY 29th

DRAG QUEEN BINGO RECAP

COFFEE WITH A COP

THE HIDDEN HILLS CERT TEAM

A TOP OF THE WORLD TOPANGA HIKE

AZURE PALM SPRINGS RESORT

818.644.1477

LIC.

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

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

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

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

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

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

MONDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY:

MONDAY: TUESDAY: WEDNESDAY:

Munchie Monday (15% o all edibles)

Munchie Monday (15% o all edibles)

TUESDAY: WEDNESDAY:

Tincture Tuesday (15% o all tinctures)

Tincture Tuesday (15% o all tinctures)

Vape Cart Wednesday (15% o all cartridges)

Vape Cart Wednesday (15% o all cartridges)

THURSDAY:

THURSDAY:

FRIDAY:

FRIDAY:

Thirsty Thursday (15% o all drinks)

Thirsty Thursday (15% o all drinks)

Flower Friday (15% o all flower)

Flower Friday (15% o all flower)

Shatterday (15% o all wax)

SATURDAY:

Shatterday (15% o all wax)

Sunday Funday (15% o all pre-rolls)

Sunday Funday (15% o all pre-rolls)

HIDDEN HILLS

HIDDEN HILLS

BELL CANYON

BELL CANYON

EXPERIENCE IS PRICELESS

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

Michael Bloom

THANK

THEIR TRUST AND CONFIDENCE IN ME.

“We are thrilled that Michael has joined our Calabasas Office Family. touches the hearts of everyone he encounters. With many years of Real Hidden Hills, Michael brings a level of sophistication, knowledge and that is unmatched by most. We are delighted to welcome Michael to celebrate his growth and success.”

–

A longtime Hidden Hills resident, Michael brings a strong work ethic, genuine knowledge of Calabasas, Woodland Hills and Hidden Hills. Fluent in deeply involved in the community, serving as an Ambassador to the Calabasas a Board Member for the Foundation for the Las Virgenes Schools and

Founder and CEO Mauricio Umansky, Calabasas Managing Partner Emil Valley Sales Manager Jason Galardi are proud to welcome Micheal Bloom

Emil Hartoonian, Managing Partner and Jason Galardi, Sales Manager

YOU TO MY LONG-TIME NEIGHBORS FOR PUTTING

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

24929 JIM BRIDGER $3,450,000 SOLD IN TEN DAYS

5395 JED SMITH $4,495,000

5565 JED SMITH $2,995,000

5697 HOBACK GLEN $7,950,000 REPRESENTED BUYER

SOLD SOLD

SOLD SOLD

18

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS

The 2022 Winter Social Equestrian Vaulting & More.

21

FOOD TRUCK ROUNDUP

Lots of mobile yumminiess coming to the community center this January.

22

ANYTHING BUT A DRAG

Drag Queen Bingo brings a fabulously fun evening to the community.

25

COFFEE WITH A COP

A special event brings cops, caffeine and conversation to Hidden Hills.

28

HIDDEN HILLS CERT TEAM

When disaster strikes, the all volunteer Hidden Hills Community Emergency Response Team is at the ready.

32

RESIDENT RECIPES

Grilled Tri-tip tacos from the Murphy Six Pack.

36

FLEAS TICKS & MOSQUITOES

How to protect your pets from these pesky little suckers.

40

TOPANGA LOOKOUT HIKE

A 360 view of your local world just a short hike away.

43

AZURE PALM RESORT

Hope springs eternal at this destination & day spa oasis.

PUBLISHED BY YOUR NEIGHBORS EXCLUSIVELY FOR OUR COMMUNITY

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

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

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

SUPPORTING BUSINESSES

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

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

MARK & SARA SHEVIN (PG. 1)

DANIELLE PERETZ (PG. 4)

MILLA PARISER (PG. 9)

JASON & MELISSA IMPROTA (PG. 11)

LISA MORIARTY (PG. 13)

MICHAEL BLOOM (PG. 14)

CHRISTINE ROSS (PG.20)

DAVID SALMANSON (PG. 26)

DANA OLMES & JEFF BIEBUYCK (INSIDE BACK COVER)

ANIMAL CARE

ALLIE TASHNEK, DVM (PG. 10)

START RESCUE (PG. 46)

HEALTH/WELLNESS/ BEAUTY

ATRIUM (pg. 6)

COURTYARD PHARMACY (pg. 33)

COMPLETE HEALTH DENTISTRY (PG. 34)

DINING

LOVI’S DELI (PG. 12)

RIB RANCH BBQ (PG. 38)

WINE & SPIRITS

AGOURA WINE (PG. 45)

HOME SERVICES

BOTTEGA LEGNA/CONEJO HARDWOODS (pg.2)

MURRE CLEANERS (pg. 16)

HANGER CORPORATION (PG. 39)

THE BABY GURU (PG. 39)

AE AUDIO VIDEO (pg. 27)

LIGHTSCAPING BY DESIGN (pg. 42)

SUN FIRE DEFENSE (pg. 35)

LEGACY LANDSCAPE SERVICES (pg. 47)

CONEJO HARDWOODS (23)

FINANCIAL SERVICES

UBS FINANCIAL SERVICES (pg, 19)

AUTOMOTIVE

ROVERS ELITE (pg, 39)

EDUCATION

SYNERGY ACADEMICS (pg. 8)

JEWELRY/ART/ LUXURY

POLACHECK’S JEWELERS (Back Cover)

2022!JANUARY

EQUESTRIAN VAULTING EVENT

SATURDAY, JANUARY 29 TH

COME AND CHILL AT THE 2022 HIDDEN HILLS WINTER SOCIAL

SATURDAY, JANUARY 22 ND

5:00 PM - 8:00 PM

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

Come by the Spring Valley Arena on January 29, 2022 for an Equestrian Vaulting Event! Presented by the Hidden Hills Pony Club and the Equestrian Services Committee. Call for details or RSVP to 818/ 227-6657

THE HIDDEN HILLS FARMERS MARKET

EVERY TUESDAY FROM 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM

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

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

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

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

ADULTS can warm their bodies with Hot Muddled Wine at the Wine Garden & Food Trucks (see pg. 21). Hip Hop Violinist Josh Vietti will entertain the residents with a performance that infuses Pop, R&B, Classical and Hip-Hop.

Tickets will go on sale January 4th via the events calendar at www.hiddenhills.org.

Advice for the life you lead

Advice. Beyond investing.

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

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

The Davis Group

UBS Financial Services Inc.

3011 Townsgate Road, Suite 300 Westlake Village, CA 91361

805-367-3680

844-892-2438

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

805-367-3680

stephen.w.davis@ubs.com

advisors.ubs.com/davisboston

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

FOOD TRUCKS AT THE COMMUNITY CENTER

ORDER AHEAD ONLINE ONLY

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

ANGELENO’S PIZZA

Tuesday, Jan 4th, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Tuesday, Jan 11th, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Neapolitan- Style Wood Fired Pizza Truck. Angeleno’s Artisan Dough is hand crafted right in front of you through their huge windows; where you see the magic happen. There you’ll find a beautiful wood-fired oven, a Chef and a bad ass crew.

PACIFICO CHARBROILED FISH

Thursday, Jan 6th, 4:00pm - 8:00pm

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

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

CERDA VEGA TACOS MEXICAN, VEGETARIAN

Thursday, Jan 20th, 4:00pm to 8:00pm

A modern-day, Guadalajara style birrieria feauturing delicious vegetarian and vegan options with two fun, energetic owners! Lorenzo and Danny bring the passion to sharing their authentic Mexican culture through cuisine.

WISE BARBECUE AMERICAN, BARBEQUE

Thursday, Jan 27th, 4:00pm to 8:00pm

The #1 barbeque food truck in Los Angeles is coming to Hidden Hills. Dined on by celebrities and adored by locals, you won’t find any better Texas style BBQ on wheels.

DINA’S DUMPLINGS

Thursday, Jan 13th, 4:00pm - 8:00pm

Dina’s Dumpling is a modern Chinese food truck bringin you authentic Chinese handmade dumplings in a fast street style. They love what we do, and take pride in preparing their food using simple, fresh ingredients daily.

AT THE 2022 HIDDEN HILLS WINTER SOCIAL

SEE PAGE 18 FOR DETAILS

8E8 THAI STREET FOOD

PINCH OF FLAVOR ASIAN FUSION, MEXICAN

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

Founded by a descendant from a long line of Thai cooks, 8E8 features everything from the classic pad thai and drunken noodles to pad siew and pineapple fried rice. Plus Thai iced tea to wash it all down.

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

RICHEEZE MELTS

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

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

Richeeze melts are homemade, rich in flavor, and awesome to the last bite.

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

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

VIVACE PIZZA dinner

HELLOOO BINGO!

IN HIDDEN HILLS, THE AGE OLD GROUP GAMBLING TRADITION IS ANYTHING BUT A DRAG

by Britt Aaronson

Bingo has become a staple of the Los Angeles community and the same is true in Hidden Hills at the HHCA Parks and Recreation Committee hosted Drag Queen Bingo. Announced by Bingo Boy, the essence of the game is simple: neighbors play bingo with numbers called out by

a fabulously gorgeous drag queen. The event is a mix of friends, fun, and ridiculousness as the game merges the live performance of the art of drag and cabaret with the traditional game. A good time was had by all, one ball at a time… HH

“COFFEE WITH A COP” EVENT BRINGS COPS, CAFFEINE AND CONVERSATION TO THE COMMUNITY CENTER

Written by Britt Aaronson

Acup of coffee is a common bond that can help officers build better relationships with the communities they serve. On December 1, Lost Hill’s Captain Salvador Becerra, Deputy Rick Baldi, Lieutenant Chad Watters, Deputy Cerveny, & Deputy Brian Knott launched the Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station annual holiday toy drive at the Coffee with a Cop event hosted at the Community Center. The City of Hidden Hill’s law enforcement services are provided by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department through a contract with the Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station, who also serves the surrounding cities of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Malibu, Westlake Village, Chatsworth Lake Manor, Malibou Lake, Topanga, & West Hills. The event provided an opportunity for open dialogue and

improved communication to discuss local issues between residents, the deputies, and Covered Six Security.

Neighbors shared coffee and pastries with the approachable deputies, helping remove the typical barriers and shift attitudes to affirm them as an ally in protecting and caring for our city. Opening up the gate for interactions outside of crisis situations can bring police officers and the community members they serve together to learn more about each other. This creates a valuable bridge for connecting as a result of the deputies hearing about the community’s needs from Hidden Hills residents themselves, so they’re better able to support them. Mission accomplished as the Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station continues to build successful relationships, one cup at a time. HH

HOPE FOR THE BEST PREPARE FOR THE WORST

WHEN DISASTER STRIKES, THE ALL VOLUNTEER HIDDEN HILLS COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM (CERT) IS AT THE READY

Emergency preparedness begins at home considering approximately one out of three residences in California are exposed to potential impacts of devastating wildfires. When the Santa Ana winds begin to blow, chaparral fuel loads combined with low humidity and windy “red flag” weather conditions produce the

perfect environment for high intensity, rapidly moving wildfires in the Santa Monica Mountains. Considering the area is highly prone to large and destructive wildfires, if a large-scale emergency or natural disaster strikes, our City staff in coordination with the Los Angeles County Fire Department and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department are prepared to

Words and Photos by Britt Aaronson

render a variety of aid. These agencies serve to manage local safety issues in an effort to reduce wildfire risks and hazards to human lives.

The City of Hidden Hills Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is a volunteer training organization that professional responders can rely on during disaster situations so that the specialists have the ability to focus on more complex tasks. The program consists of close to 30 members who are trained in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and traumatic medical operations. Monthly meetings, neighborhood presence at events, and continuing emergency response training courses are overseen by Michael Woodard, the Hidden Hills Emergency Services Coordinator. The knowledgeable retired Lost Hills Sheriff’s Deputy instructs the team to practice necessary skills by recounting authentic crisis experiences that may impact the community. Drills are excellent opportunities for CERT programs to practice, assess and improve emergency response plans and on-theground operations while engaging the volunteers and refreshing the concepts and skills learned in training.

In the most recent exercise, Assistant Fire Chief Drew Smith from the Los Angeles County Fire Department, Executive Committee Strategist Brent Woodworth from the Los Angeles Office of the Chief of Police, and local Malibu & Topanga members of the Community Fire Brigade Advisory Group educated resident volunteers about disaster preparedness and specific dangers that could impact our area. Three sites were visited to dispense

informative facts about how fire behaves within local boundaries. The highly skilled advisors met the participants at City Hall, since that location serves as the main hub of public information and coordination of resources. The group reconvened at the edge of Old Eldorado Meadow Road overlooking Ahmanson Ranch to discuss fire history. The gathering finished at the top of Crummer Road in Ahmanson Ranch in order to demonstrate how fires are driven across the landscape with wind and slope energy. Standing at the crest of Crummer Canyon, Fire Chief Smith highlighted our most vulnerable areas are oriented north where the wind starts from the radio tower at Oat Mountain which is the tallest peak in the Santa Susana Mountains, to Point Dume, Latigo Canyon, and Point Mugu.

CERT teaches members what to do before, during, and after facing unique hazards in one’s individual community. There are over 2,700 local CERT programs nationwide and more than 600,000 people have trained since it became a national program. Hidden Hills engages their volunteers through monthly meetings and continuing education. Many questions and concerns regarding balancing wildfire mitigation strategies with longterm sustainability of natural resources within our perimeters were answered. It is a stark reminder that emergencies can happen in our backyard at any time.

If you are interested in learning more about CERT, please contact Michael Woodard, Hidden Hills Emergency Services Coordinator at (818) 888-9281. HH

NEW HOURS 2 6 TO

FARMER’S MARKET

HIDDEN HILLS • CALIFORNIA

New to the Farmer Market every Tuesday “We Rock Spectrum Agoura Hills” and “DJ Fusion”

LOCAL ARTISANAL TO TABLE FARM CALIFORNIA GROWN FRESH

But Wait There’s More!

So, come join us for fun activities and shopping.

For more information on We Rock Spectrum visit their website at www.werockthespectrumagourahills.com

LOCAL ARTISANAL TO TABLE FARM CALIFORNIA GROWN

LOCATION

STARTING 3 COMMUNITY CENTER

2 6

FRESH RD UNIQUE

LOCATION

STARTING 3 COMMUNITY CENTER

RESIDENT RECIPES

THE FLAVORS OF HIDDEN HILLS

TRI-TIP TACOS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 Tri-tip, trimmed

• 1 16oz can of verde enchilada sauce

• 5 Roma tomatoes

• 4 large jalapeños

AS CREATED BY KYLE &

KRYSTAL MURPHY

ABOVE: THE MURPHY SIX-PACK Kyle with Krystal their kids Kennedi and triplets Kole, Kylie & Kodi.

• 5 tomatillos

• 2-3 Hass avocados

• 1 cup Mexican Crema or sour

cream

• 1 bunch cilantro

• 1 large white onion

• 2 tbsp garlic powder

• 2 tbsp onion powder

• 2 tbsp coriander powder

• 1-1/2 tbsp paprika

• 6 limes

• Cotija cheese

• Flour tortillas, preferably homemade if you’re ambitious, or store bought.

• 2.5 cups unbleached AP flour, plus extra to form tortilla balls

• 1/2 tsp baking powder (optional, but preferred)

• 1 cup hot water

• 1/3 cup vegetable shortening or lard (your choice)

• 1 tsp salt

DIRECTIONS

Add verde enchilada sauce, 1-1/2 tbsp of each garlic/onion/ coriander/paprika powder to large container to marinate the tri tip. 4-8hrs marinate in refrigerator.

If making tortillas, see below**. Start 1-1.5hrs before desired eating time.

Bring tri-tip to room temperature, usually about 1hour rest. Pull out of fridge and remove from marinade (save marinade). Season tri-tip with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Heat BBQ or Grill to 450F. Cook tri-tip until internal temp reads 115F, flipping every 7-10min. Goal here is achieve a smokey sear with an undercooked center. If using a gas grill, oak wood chips are advised for added flavor. Pull off, cover and rest for 10-20min. During resting period, pour marinade into 4qt sauce pot and bring to slow boil then turn off flame and cover with lid. Dice whole tri-tip up into ¼-½” cubes. Place all cubes and drippings in sauce pot with cooked marinade. Mix and keep warm for serving.

Simultaneously during resting period, roast the tomatoes, jalapenos, tomatillos, ½” the onion and two limes halved, placed face down. Once roasted remove from grill/bbq.

For Salsa: Take tomatoes and 3 jalapenos and roughly dice up and place in bowl. Salt mixture and set aside. (This is spicy salsa. Can be made with Pasilla chile for medium or green bell for mild).

For Avo Crema: Take tomatillos, remaining jalapeno, roasted onion portion, roasted lime juice, crema, avocados, remaining garlic/onion/coriander powder, break off a chuck of cilantro and add to a blender. Blend until smooth. If too thick, add small amount of water. Desired consistency that of a thick sauce.

To plate, take tortilla, spoon on Avo Crema as base, add meat, top with Salsa and finish with Cotija crumbles on top.

FOR THE TORTILLAS

**In large bowl mix flour, baking powder, salt and mix. With hands (or fork), incorporate shortening. This will be coarse. Add water slowly little by little until dough holds together. Do not add water all at once.

Turn out dough onto counter and knead for 5min.

Divide into 15-20 balls and roll with palm of hand. Place in rows on counter and cover with damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let rest for 30-45min. Critical to rest for gluten development.

Lightly flour surface and roll into discs with rolling pin. Looking for 5-6” diameter.

Heat cast iron skillet/griddle to medium heat. Once to temp, place the raw tortilla on griddle for 20 seconds, flip for another 20s, flip again for 10-20s. Tortilla should have golden brown bubbles. If black, griddle is too hot.

Cook remaining tortillas and place in kitchen towel or tortilla warmer. These can be made well in advance and stored in plastic bag.

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

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

HEALTHY MOUTH • HEALTHY BODY •

HEALTHY LIFE

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

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

FLEAS & TICKS & MOSQUITOES, OH MY!

Written by Allison Tashnek, DVM

While the calendar might say we are in winter, our mild California seasons allow us to enjoy relatively temperate conditions year round. This may mean great weather for us, but also means that many creepy crawlies remain active all year long in our region.

The most well known critter that annoys our furry friends is the flea, or Ctenocephalides felis. While fleas are certainly more prevalent in the warmer months of summer, they remain active all year long in our temperate climate. Fleas make their home on furry animals and cause bites and itching, and sometimes skin allergies as well. Fleas can transmit serious diseases such as plague, typhus, Cat Scratch Disease, and even tapeworms. Not only can these

diseases be transmitted between animals, fleas can also spread these diseases to humans. Even if your pet is indoor only, fleas can actually be tracked inside on shoes, leaves, or other debris.

Another insect that is active all year long in California is the tick. We have multiple species of ticks in our region, but the most common is the Pacific Coast Tick. All tick species in our area can transmit debilitating and potentially life threatening diseases including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Ehrlichia, and Anaplasmosis, to name a few. Ticks gain access to animals by lying in wait on grass or other plant material until an unsuspecting animal brushes up against the vegetation. Once in close proximity, the tick jumps onto its new host.

When the tick takes a blood meal from the animal, it also passes infectious bacteria into the animal’s bloodstream. Ticks are not picky and will happily make a meal out of a human as well!

We can’t forget about that pesky flying insect, the mosquito. A new type of mosquito is now calling Southern California home. The Aedes mosquitoes, also called the ankle biter mosquitoes, are a new invasive species of mosquito that has arrived in California in recent years, and is now found in our region. These mosquitoes are more aggressive, are able to breed in minute amounts of water, and bite during the daytime when people and pets are outside most. Additionally, their active season is no longer just during summer, but rather is all year long with their peak

Dr. Allie grew up in Hidden Hills as an avid equestrian. She went on to receive her veterinary degree from University of California, Davis in 2017. She now practices as a mobile house call veterinarian seeing her patients, large and small, in the comfort of their own homes. drtashnek.com

in the fall. Most of us are familiar with the human diseases that mosquitoes can transmit, but they are also important vectors in the spread of West Nile Virus and Heartworm disease in animals.

While it may seem like there’s no hope in our crusade against these pesky critters, there is some positive news! We have effective measures to prevent many of these pests. The best broad spectrum parasite prevention we have on the market right now is the isoxazoline class of products, which includes Nexgard, Bravecto, and Simparica. These products are safe for most dogs, and are highly effective

in preventing fleas, ticks, and mites. We also have effective preventatives for heartworm disease as well. Talk to your vet about which preventatives are right for your pet! The important thing to remember is that just because it is winter time, does not mean that we can assume parasites won’t bother our pets. We get to enjoy sunshine and warm temperatures year round, which also means that we must remain vigilant to protect our furry family members from parasites and parasite-borne diseases. HH

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

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

INDOOR FIRESIDE OR PATIO DINING CATERING

INDOOR FIRESIDE OR PATIO DINING

FAMILY OWNED FOR 50 YEARS, WE ARE HERE FOR YOU NOW MORE THAN EVER.

CATERING

LARGE PARTIES

LARGE PARTIES

HAPPY TO BRING IT ON OVER!

RibRanchBBQ.com

RibRanchBBQ.com

4923 Topanga Cyn Blvd. Woodland Hills

LOOKOUT HIKE TOPANGA

Located at 2,375 feet above sea-level, the Topanga Lookout is one of the highest vantage points in the Santa Monica Mountains and there are few places to offer such breathtaking views from the Ocean to Downtown Los Angeles. The Topanga Lookout is the remains of a former fire observation tower. Hiking to this massive graffitied concrete slab, jutting out above the magnificent Red Rock Canyon Park, will make visitors feel like they are standing at the edge of the world. The concrete slab displays a striking contrast of colorful tags juxtaposed with the rich natural landscape of sweeping views of canyons and the spectacular surroundings of the Santa Monica Mountains, Calabasas, and the Santa Susana Mountains.

The trail to the Topanga Lookout is an easy 2-mile round trip with 160

feet of elevation gain, and is leasheddog friendly. The entire journey will take about an hour to complete after beginning at the gated trailhead and continuing up the paved road toward the radio towers atop the summit. When the wide dirt trail breaks off, follow this track to the left along the ridge uphill to the lookout. The most precarious section of the terrain is the final ascent to the large graffiti-covered concrete foundation at the site of the old fire tower.

After observing the panorama at the Topanga Lookout, it is very clear why this site was chosen to be the observatory over the mountains as the dramatic views are wide and far. Remember to bring your camera as the location is overflowing with photographic opportunities. HH

We control and Dim your Lighting using Smarthome Technology

uplighting • path lighting spot lighting • security lighting

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

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

Azure Palm Resort & Day Spa Oasis

written by Elyse Glickman

Desert Hot Springs may only be a short 15 minute drive from Palm Springs and two hours from Los Angeles, it’s effectively its own island of serenity. While the town is humble and down to Earth, it is also the only place in Southern California where a spa purist will find some of the purest and most crystal clear hot mineral springs water.

The Azure Palm Resort & Day Spa Oasis— opened during the pandemic—taps into the city’s namesake natural resource for its pools, therapeutic spa treatments, and ambiance. While its quick growth and early success with area locals and visitors is miraculous in its own right in a challenging time for resorts (spas in particular), its also a place where health miracles great and small

happen. The mineral water powering the Azure Palms experience (which also made Desert Hot Springs the most decorated city in the world for its municipal tap water) soars from the ground at 174°F and is packed with beneficial, restorative minerals including calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium and lithium.

This day spa/overnight resort further sets itself apart with a Modernist aesthetic re-imagined with refined “global” textiles and furnishings that complement the western views of Mount San Gorgonio and Mount San Jacinto. Its breakfast/lunch cafe follows suit with some of the best healthy offerings anywhere, including a magical flourless chocolate cake that gets its rich flavor from beets and black beans (!) as well as refreshing, filling juices enjoyed on their own or taken in as part of Azure Palms’ cleanse program. And speaking of original menus, Azure Palm offers 30 specially curated spa therapies and packages and 22 spacious Spa Suites with private in-room mineral spring tubs.

The almost viscous, silky textured water is rich with silica which softens and moisturizes the skin and enhances treatments running the gap from classic massages to custom facials, scrubs, lymphatic and other indulgences on the spa menu. While numerous main

and trace minerals are absorbed through the skin during a dip into the hotel’s jacuzzi and pool, relaxing muscles and mind, it also doesn’t hurt that the spa is surrounded by the Coachella Valley’s fabled desert landscape as well as beautiful on-property landscaping.

“I wanted the resort to be supremely comfortable and chic in one breath,” affirms owner Maria Lease, managing partner and visionary, who takes pride in the fact that guests will not find a television or anything too gadgety in sight during their stay. “The guest should be surrounded by the beauty of the desert while enjoying the mineral water deep beneath it. While our miracle spring water maintains a high sulfur content, it is completely odorless, soft and silky. Our new “Oasis” builds on how we’ve tapped into this healing water with streams, winding paths, lounging areas, a unique reflexology walk and 5 flow-through mineral tubs, all in a restful, desert oasis.”

To create a look that distinguishes Azure Palm from the other high-end spas in the area, Lease teamed up with decorator Dominique Cady to create an ambiance that riffs on the area’s “Mid Century Modern” aesthetic in a divinely different way that takes both day visitors and longer-term guests on a life-changing fitness retreat/ juice cleanse down to Earth and into paradise at the same time.

“We wanted to bring in rich, naturally dyed fabric, and the hand dyed indigo fabric and mud cloths of Africa were a perfect addition, imparting vibrant, yet soothing, natural colors,” continues Lease. “Dominique had been sourcing these fabrics directly from Mali in West Africa, so

this was a perfect addition. While it was very challenging to source the right furniture for our look during the pandemic, a market did open up in Las Vegas in August of 2020 and we were able to make a number of great connections there, and the final look is gradually coming together.”

Another thing that sets Azure Palm apart from the other wellness retreats is its food-not because it is high-concept, stylishly austere or created by a celebrity chef, but because it is simple, accessible, inspirational, and aspirational at once.

“One of the cafe’s goals has always been to provide a variety of healthier options to both guests of Azure

Skillful Landscape Management aptitude, including job foreman

Knowledgeable Design Capability

Complete new and existing irrigation systems understanding and installation

Safe and skillful tree pruning and trimming aptitude

Hard scape installation and strategy

Landscape (heavy equipment operators)

Palm Hot Springs as well as members of the community,” explains Alysa Valdez, the retreat’s cafe manager on the kitchen’s common sense approach. “A part of our mission is making affordable, delicious and nutritious meals accessible to anyone interested in taking control of their diet and health. We took great care to avoid the stripped down ‘health food’ diets often encountered at wellness properties that are difficult to sustain when you leave, and instead focused on familiar and delicious dishes made from simple, fresh ingredients.”

To see this vision come to fruition, Maria and Valdez teamed up with restaurant consulting firm Uncommon Fruit LLC, which drew inspiration from native California ingredients like dates, almonds and citrus. As the Coachella Valley is the ancestral home of the Aguas Calientes band of Cahuilla Indians, and to honor their stewardship of the land), they figured in traditional and historic foodstuffs of the tribe such as mesquite pods, cactus and agave to the cafe’s menu development.

Guests who come for a longer, more transformative visit, will get their nourishment from Yesenia’s Vida Cleanse, a comprehensive, yoga and juice fasting program bolstered with the healing benefits of the mineral springs. While juices on the regular menu at the cafe do have some natural and residual sugars from the fruit, juices served during the fast designed not only to be healthy but delicious even without sugar. The green juice used for the fast includes a hint of ginger and lemon for taste and wellness, while the watermelon blend and our rejuvenating mineral broth are packed with potassium and vitamins.

“We have two simple rules,” affirms Valdez. “One is building our flavors with a balance of salt, sweet and acid such as vinegar and lemons before bringing in locally sourced herbs and spices. The other is showing guests it is possible to create an overall lifestyle change when you rely less on processed foods and take a little extra effort to use what’s fresh.”