Investing in Community
HOME + DESIGN
MARK THOMAS HOME
WELLNESS
SOCAL SLEEP DENTISTRY
HEALTH + WELLNESS
NEW MOM SCHOOL
FIRSTLIGHT HOME CARE
Invest in the Community
The theme of this month’s issue is Investing. Since I am not a stock market expert, I will leave that discussion up to the experts at two of our marketing partners, the Lake Avenue Group at Morgan Stanley and Montecito Bank & Trust. Robin and I invested in the Conejo Valley and Santa Rosa Valley communities when we launched Conejo Valley Lifestyle in 2015. Our magazine is a business and the nature of our business is to communicate with the folks who live here about what is some of the best our community has to offer. Our focus for the past 11 years and into the future has been primarily on small businesses like ours and the many nonprofits that flourish in the Conejo Valley and throughout Ventura County,
More often than not, starting a small business involves investing your own money. It’s not about investors and “OPM” (that’s Other People’s Money for those who never saw the movie). Whenever I launched a new business (I’ve done more than a few) I never looked down from the tight rope. Aside from having the new “great idea,” I always made certain I had a marketing budget. Every entrepreneur in our community is investing in themselves and the neighborhood, town or city in which they do business. It’s a combination of a “family affair” and the community at large.
In this issue we feature an honest-to-goodness family affair: SoCal Sleep Dentistry in Westlake Village was recently launched by the husband-and-wife team of Dr. Nina Rastegar and Dr. Daniel Kohanchi. While they are highly qualified and skilled dental health professionals, their practice has a vision that reflects family values and a commitment to health and wellness in the Conejo Valley. You can learn more inside this issue.
There are many more professional practices and businesses like SoCal Sleep Dentistry in Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park, Oak Park and Agoura Hills. They are excellent examples of what is best about our cities and our country.
BEN MALKIN, PUBLISHER @CONEJOVALLEYLIFESTYLEMAGAZINE
April 2026
PUBLISHER
Ben Malkin | ben.malkin@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Robin Chesler | robin.chesler@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Tracy Marcynzsyn | tracy.marcynzsyn@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Alicia Doyle, Samantha Durbin, Stephanie Karlubian, Kim Pagano
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Jamie Pham Photography
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
in Patient Care
SoCal Sleep Dentistry:
ARTICLE BY ALICIA DOYLE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED Invested
Investing in family can look like many things: lingering over dinner, holding space for tough conversations or sitting beside a loved one in a vulnerable moment. For husband-and-wife team Dr. Nina Rastegar and Dr. Daniel Kohanchi, it also looks like building a dental practice that feels like an extension of home, where anxious patients, children and entire families can receive care in an environment rooted in warmth, safety and trust.
SoCal Sleep Dentistry in Westlake Village feels less like a clinic and more like a refuge for people who have long feared the dentist's chair. In their practice, the couple is redefining what it means to “go to the dentist” by combining advanced technology, full anesthesia services and a deeply personal, family-centered approach.
“To us, investing in family means creating a home filled with warmth, laughter and emotional safety while being intentional with presence,” says Dr. Rastegar. “Success outside the home means very little if the people inside the home don’t feel supported and seen.”
A DIFFERENT KIND OF DENTAL VISIT
From the beginning, the couple’s mission was simple: change how people feel when they sit in a dental chair.
“At our core, we want dentistry to feel safe, calm and human,” says Dr. Rastegar. “There’s no rush, no judgment, just honest conversations and personalized care.”
The practice is designed for patients of all ages, including those with dental anxiety, special needs, strong gag reflexes, complex medical histories or a history of traumatic dental experiences.
Becoming parents only deepened the way they approach those vulnerable moments.
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“At our core, we want dentistry to feel safe, calm and human,” says Dr. Rastegar. “There’s no rush, no judgment, just honest conversations and personalized care.”
“Our family is the foundation of how we care for people,” says Dr. Kohanchi. “Becoming parents reminded us that people aren’t just coming in for a service; they’re placing trust in you during a moment of discomfort.” That perspective shaped an environment built on patience, gentleness and genuine human connection, so people leave feeling cared for and at ease.
Their model blends comprehensive dentistry with in-house anesthesia, allowing patients to complete everything from routine cleanings to complex full-arch smile restorations in one place. The result is an atmosphere where fear and anxiety are replaced by trust, comfort and a sense of genuine care.
TECHNOLOGY IN SERVICE OF FAMILIES
SoCal Sleep Dentistry is one of the rare practices that offers the full spectrum of anesthesia—from light sedation to hospital-grade general anesthesia—within a private dental office. As a board-certified dentist anesthesiologist, Dr. Kohanchi safely administers IV sedation, deep sedation and general anesthesia while Dr. Rastegar focuses on conservative, cosmetic and restorative dentistry.
“Our technology allows us to give patients faster, safer and more comfortable treatment,” says Dr. Kohanchi. “Everything we’ve invested in is for their benefit.”
That investment shows up in their state-of-the-art equipment. Digital scanners replace messy, gag-inducing molds, capturing precise 3D images of teeth, while 3D imaging (CBCT) supports detailed diagnostics and guided implant
surgery. An in-office milling unit makes same-day crowns possible, and a 3D printer allows the team to fabricate nightguards, retainers and surgical guides—often the same day.
For families, this means fewer visits, less time off work or school and the ability to complete significant treatment in a single, carefully managed appointment.
“Balancing parenthood and a career isn’t about perfection—it’s about alignment,” says Dr. Rastegar. “When work reflects the same values practiced at home, everything feels more meaningful.”
SERVICES FAMILIES ACTUALLY LOOK FORWARD TO
Patients who have avoided the dentist for years often find their way to SoCal Sleep Dentistry seeking a fresh start. Popular services include sedation dentistry, preventive cleanings, in-office professional whitening, implants, fullarch restorations, same-day crowns and cosmetic smile makeovers, including veneers. Pediatric sedation dentistry is also a cornerstone of the practice, giving children who struggle in traditional settings a gentle, manageable way to receive care.
Their philosophy is simple: meet patients where they are.
“Whether someone needs a simple cleaning, cosmetic work or a full smile transformation under anesthesia, we meet every patient where they are,” says Dr. Kohanchi. “We guide them through their journey with compassion, honesty and expertise.”
As Dr. Rastegar adds, “Our mission is to help patients regain trust in dentistry and feel proud of their smiles again. We want to create a space where people feel genuinely cared for—where fear dissolves and confidence grows.”
A FAMILY CARING FOR FAMILIES
For Drs. Rastegar and Kohanchi, SoCal Sleep Dentistry is more than a business—it is an extension of their home life.
“We’re raising our children here. We care about this community, and our patients feel that,” says Dr. Rastegar. “We treat every person the way we would treat our own family.” Many patients become like extended family, returning year after year not just for the dentistry, but for the warmth and familiarity they find there.
When they talk about investing in family, they emphasize presence more than anything.
“Life gets busy, but having regular moments where everyone slows down—sharing a Shabbat meal, talking about the day or going on a family walk—gives a sense of connection and belonging,” says Dr. Kohanchi. “It’s less about any single tradition and more about creating space to consistently come back to each other.”
Those values shape the legacy they hope to pass on to their children.
“We hope our children grow up believing kindness and integrity are strengths, not weaknesses,” says Dr. Rastegar. “We want them to see that you can be ambitious and compassionate at the same time—that success isn’t measured by what you earn, but by how people feel around you.” She adds, “If they become adults who make others feel comfortable, respected and cared for, then we know we’ve done something right.”
“In many ways, the office is an extension of home: welcoming, calm and built on trust,” says Dr. Kohanchi. For those who thought they would never feel comfortable at the dentist, SoCal Sleep Dentistry offers something rare: a place where fear fades, confidence grows and every smile is given the time and attention it deserves.
SoCal Sleep Dentistry is located at 30873 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Westlake Village. For more information, call 818.864.0011, email info@socalsleepdentistry.com or visit SoCalSleepDentistry.com
TRANSFORMING SMILES, REDEFINING COMFORT
Experience unparalleled dental care at our family-owned practice, led by Dr. Nina Rastegar and Dr. Daniel Kohanchi. Using state-of-the-art technology, we provide all types of dentistry for patients of all ages, with all levels of sedation to ensure comfort for everyone. From routine care to aesthetic and surgical smile makeovers, we offer sameday treatments, emergency appointments, and a serene, luxurious environment. Let us transform your smile and redefine your dental experience.
OUR SERVICES:
• Comprehensive Exams & Cleanings
• Teeth Whitening (In-Office & Take-Home Options)
• Porcelain Veneers
• Cosmetic Smile Makeovers
• Invisalign® & SureSmile® Clear Aligners
• Night guards
• Tooth-Colored Fillings
• Crowns & Bridges (Same-Day Options Available)
• Inlays & Onlays
• Dentures & Partial Dentures
• Root Canal Therapy
• Tooth Extractions (Including Wisdom Teeth) with bone graft
• Dental Implants & Implant Restorations
• All on X Surgical Smile Makeover
• Botox & Fillers
• IV Vitamin Therapy
• Emergency Dental Care
SEDATION DENTISTRY:
• Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
• Oral Sedation
• IV Sedation
• General Anesthesia
LEVEL UP LIVING WITH MARK THOMAS HOME
Curate your home with investment pieces built to last
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA DURBIN
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Can you visualize your ideal living room? The whole vibe is comfortable yet refined, spacious and personal. The world out there is sometimes wild, so we want our interior lives to be as peaceful and beautiful as possible. That's where Mark Thomas Home comes in.
A discerning shopper with a preference for mid-century modern furniture, I spoke with Mark Lasecke about the company's story and the importance of investing in quality furniture.
Family owned since 1957, Mark Thomas Home has built a reputation for exceptional taste and quality furnishings designed to last. Lasecke’s grandfather first opened the store in Santa Rosa in 1957 under the name Eastern Wholesale Furniture Company of California. The name was changed to Mark Thomas Home for brevity (and named after Lasecke, whose middle name is Thomas).
The company found its current space in Conejo Valley 3 years ago, positioning it as a
“boutique designer gallery,” says Lasecke. The 35,000-square-foot showroom features over 185 fully styled room settings. Instead of scrolling through furnishing photos, you can see, feel and experience them in person. The showroom offers collections including bedroom, seating, dining, artwork, lighting, rugs and Hunter Douglas window treatments.
With professional interior designers on staff, guidance is always available, whether you need help choosing an accent chair or furnishing an entire home. For larger projects, in-home consultations with CAD floor plans are available for a $500 fee, refunded when purchases reach $10,000 or more.
Voted Best Furniture Store in the Conejo Valley for 2 consecutive years and most recently voted Best Mattress and Home Décor, the company has quickly received a warm welcome by locals.
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“TUFTED UPHOLSTERED BEDS WITH WOOD ON THE SIDES AND /OR WOOD LEGS ARE IN DEMAND.”
INVESTING IN LIVING
"Not every item in your home needs to be heirloom quality, but a few pieces should be," says Lasecke. "Instead of mass-produced, fast furniture, these furnishings anchor your most used spaces, define your aesthetic and withstand years of wear." He adds, "Choosing quality over convenience elevates your daily living, saves money over time by avoiding frequent replacements and is more sustainable."
1. Great Room or Family Room Sofa
The main sofa, as the heart of everyday living, should be an investment. A highquality model with kiln-dried hardwood framing, premium cushions and durable upholstery will hold its shape for years.
“The most popular now are recliner sectionals,” says Lasecke. “We have them in both fabric and leather.”
Writer’s Choice: Bernhardt Aldo Fabric Power Motion Sectional
2. Primary Bedroom Bed Frame + Mattress Foundation
Your bedroom should feel like a retreat. Investing in a well-crafted bed frame and supportive foundation improves sleep quality and adds a sense of luxury.
“Tufted upholstered beds with wood on the sides and/or wood legs are in demand,” says Lasecke. “We're seeing a preference for Amish beds. There’s nothing like the craftsmanship of the wood.”
Writer’s Choice: Gat Creek Bedroom Sunbury Platform Bed
3. Dining Room Table
Dining tables host holidays, celebrations and everyday meals. A well-built table made from quality wood or premium materials can last generations, developing character over time. Rectangular dining tables reign, and Lasecke mentions that the majority of styles have leaf inserts to accommodate more people. For a modern alternative, there's also round and oval-shaped dining tables to consider.
Writer’s Choice: Bernhardt Casual Dining Modulum Table
4. Front Entry Statement Piece
Entryway pieces are recommended according to your particular space. Whether a small or grand entry, a striking console table sets the tone for your entire home. Investing here creates an immediate sense of
sophistication and a functional countertop for every time you walk in the door.
Writer Favorite: Hooker Furniture Melange Emma Console Table
A THOUGHTFUL DELIVERY EXPERIENCE
When I comment that a stone table sounds very heavy, Lasecke chuckles, ensuring that their team knows how to handle it. Premium furniture deserves premium delivery, and Mark Thomas Home delivers nationally and internationally. The team inspects, prepares and blanket-wraps items, delivers them personally and carefully places them in clients’ homes. And that final detail completes the Mark Thomas Home investment experience.
Learn more at MarkThomasHome.com.
“INSTEAD OF MASS-PRODUCED, FAST FURNITURE, THESE FURNISHINGS ANCHOR YOUR MOST USED SPACES, DEFINE YOUR AESTHETIC AND WITHSTAND YEARS OF WEAR.”
OCS DINNER AUCTION
Break Out of the Conventional
Come join us for a series of delightful Mizel Lifestyle Experiences filled with wine, playfulness and relaxation!
WINE TASTING IN THE VINEYARD
Every Saturday
1:00PM - 2:15PM & 2:30PM - 3:45PM
Indulge in a flight of Mizel’s luscious, velvety red wines, made from 100% estate-grown French varietals. Enjoy a guided tour of our vines, where the magic begins.
WINE MIXER
Every Thursday
5:00PM - 6:30PM
Step out of your week and into a world apart. Taste Mizel’s fine wines, listen to live music, play games and socialize with fun-loving wine devotees in our gorgeous vineyard.
ART AND WINE WITH BOBBIE RICH
2nd & 4th Sundays 3:00PM - 5:00PM
Free your creativity with an immersive art class, paired with Mizel’s fine wine. Bring your masterpiece to life under the gentle guidance of acclaimed artist Bobbie Rich.
YOGA AND SOUND BATH
3rd Sundays 9:00AM - 11:00AM
Surrounded by nature, Mizel’s yogi guides you through a yoga and sound bath session, promoting relaxation and tranquility. Afterward, savor Mizel Wine and artisanal chocolate.
RISING TOGETHER AT GIGI’S PLAYHOUSE Simi Valley
EMPOWERING INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES WITH DOWN SYNDROME
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA DURBIN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
GiGi’s Playhouse may sound like a fun place, but it is electric with possibility. The sounds emanating from this nonprofit space for individuals and families with Down syndrome are the sounds of a community pushing back against doubt.
The squeak of sneakers in a fitness class, the scratch of a pen during literacy tutoring, the laughter of a life being celebrated, this place is the result of 4 years of dedication. After opening its doors in August 2024, the Simi Valley GiGi's Playhouse operates on a franchise-like model, self-governed by its own board, responsible for all local fundraising, staffing and programming. This autonomy allows the playhouse to tailor its global mission to the local community's needs.
This localized strength is supported by a larger guiding hand. GiGi’s Inc. acts as a national overseer, ensuring all Playhouses adhere to the same core mission and values. This structure combines the rigor of a national nonprofit with grassroots, local control. While GiGi's Inc. guides the startup, each Playhouse is responsible for cultivating the community partnerships and fundraising efforts that sustain its free programs.
diagnosis as a cause for joy, welcoming them with celebration packets and an instant community. For participants, the focus is on self-advocacy.
“We give them a stage and a microphone to share their voices,” Cohen says, making the playhouse a literal and figurative platform for capability.
One of the most extraordinary features of the playhouse is that all of its programs are free. This necessity dismantles the financial and logistical hurdles families face. Programming runs the gamut from prenatal diagnosis through adulthood.
“We want to counteract the myth that individuals with Down syndrome will have a very low quality of life.”
At the center's core is a simple, powerful mission: empowerment. The organization directly tackles what Executive Director Frankie Cohen calls a cultural challenge.
“We want to counteract the myth that individuals with Down syndrome will have a very low quality of life.” For new parents, this means reframing
Fitness classes are a draw for adults who have aged out of school district support. Meanwhile, the specialized literacy tutoring program has a waitlist, underscoring community demand for these essential services roadblocked by insurance and lengthy therapy waitlists.
The proof of concept lives in the people. Mindy, a 48-year-old advocate, enjoyed a 15-year career at Lowe's, and after a brief attempt at retirement, she is back in the workforce. Her dedication is visible in the space, where she made a significant personal donation to sponsor the in-house stage, a spot where she can be found singing karaoke.
The center also provides support for parents.
“These are strong parents,” Cohen says. “They celebrate little accomplishments, like a young participant bending their knees and jumping for the first time." Cohen speaks compassionately about the overwhelming load parents carry. Nearly 50% of infants with Down syndrome have
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a congenital heart condition. Managing health and the required weekly occupational, physical and speech therapies often requires one parent to stay home. The free services and the robust peer-to-peer community, which includes informational sessions led by lawyers on complex topics like IEPs, alleviate this incredible strain.
Fueled by the local community, every program is volunteer-led, and the playhouse invests heavily in its people, ensuring comprehensive training. This includes online modules for programs like literacy and instruction on handling different learning behaviors, acknowledging that individuals with Down syndrome, and those with dual diagnoses like autism, learn differently.
A major initiative is the annual GiGi's 5K Acceptance Challenge every April, a fundraiser built around the “Generation G” pledge, a promise to be accepting, generous and kind to everyone. The future of the Simi Valley location has momentum, with recently launched kitchen classes, teaching essential cooking and safety skills, and plans to roll out one-onone math tutoring during the summer.
GiGi's Playhouse Simi Valley encourages individuals and families with Down syndrome to always set the bar "as high, if not higher, than their peers,” because, as Cohen cheerleads, "they are capable of much more than society often presumes."
Learn more, get involved or donate at GiGisPlayhouse.org/simivalley.
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE KARLUBIAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
New Mom School Westlake Village
Why Investing Benefits More Than Just Mom
Preparing for a baby often focuses on tangible things—cribs, strollers and carefully curated registries. Yet one of the most meaningful investments a family can make during the postpartum season isn’t a product at all. It’s support. At New Mom School Westlake Village, families are discovering that investing in maternal education and community doesn’t just help mothers adjust to parenthood—it strengthens the entire family system.
The transition into motherhood is profound, emotional and often unexpectedly overwhelming. Even the most prepared parents quickly learn that newborn care cannot be mastered through late-night internet searches alone. Questions about feeding, sleep, development and emotional wellbeing arise daily, often leaving mothers wondering if what they’re experiencing is normal.
New Mom School Westlake Village was created to answer exactly that need. Through expert-led classes, guided discussions and peer connection, mothers receive practical education alongside something equally essential: reassurance. Instead of navigating early motherhood in isolation, moms enter a structured environment where learning happens in real time, supported by professionals and a community experiencing the same stage of life.
Confidence is one of the first and most noticeable outcomes. When mothers understand infant behavior, developmental milestones and postpartum recovery, anxiety often gives way to empowerment. Education helps normalize common challenges—from soothing a fussy baby to managing sleep transitions—allowing mothers to make decisions grounded in knowledge rather than fear.
This confidence directly benefits babies. Infants are deeply responsive to their caregivers’ emotional state. A supported mother is more present, responsive and attuned to her baby’s cues. At New Mom School Westlake Village, parents learn how to recognize their babies’ signals, understand sleep patterns and foster early emotional connection. These skills help create calmer daily rhythms at home, strengthening attachment and encouraging healthy developmental foundations during the earliest months of life.
The positive impact extends beyond the mother-baby relationship. Partners often experience relief when mothers feel supported and informed. Many participants bring home strategies and insights that improve communication and teamwork within the household. When both parents better understand postpartum realities, expectations
“When
a mother feels confident and connected, everyone benefits. Babies thrive in secure environments. Partners feel more engaged. Families communicate more effectively. Communities grow stronger.”
shift, empathy grows and family dynamics become more collaborative rather than stressful.
One of the defining aspects of New Mom School Westlake Village is its emphasis on community. Modern parenting can feel isolating, especially in areas where extended family may not live nearby. Classes recreate the “village” many parents long for—a consistent group of mothers meeting weekly, sharing experiences and growing together.
These relationships frequently evolve into lasting friendships. Playdates, shared milestones and ongoing emotional support continue long after a class series ends. For many families,
the connections formed within New Mom School become an enduring part of their parenting journey.
The benefits ripple outward into the broader community as well. Supported mothers are more likely to support others, share trusted resources and model confident parenting practices. By investing in maternal wellbeing early, families help cultivate stronger social networks and healthier community connections.
While some may initially view parenting classes as an optional expense, many graduates describe New Mom School Westlake Village as a preventative investment. Education reduces uncertainty, helping families avoid unnecessary stress,
misinformation and the emotional toll of feeling alone during postpartum recovery. The value lies not only in the information gained but in the emotional resilience built.
Perhaps most importantly, New Mom School Westlake Village recognizes that becoming a mother is an identity shift, not just a lifestyle adjustment. Alongside caring for a newborn, women are rediscovering themselves—balancing joy, exhaustion, growth and vulnerability. The program provides space for that transformation, reminding mothers that they are supported not only as parents, but as individuals navigating a major life transition.
When a mother feels confident and connected, everyone benefits. Babies thrive in secure environments. Partners feel more engaged. Families communicate more effectively. Communities grow stronger. In the end, investing in New Mom School Westlake Village is not simply enrolling in a class. It is choosing education, connection and long-term family wellbeing—a decision whose impact extends far beyond the newborn stage and continues shaping families for years to come.
To learn more, visit newmomschool.com/westlake-village-ca/
FirstLight
ARTICLE BY ALICIA DOYLE PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Invested in Helping Seniors Live Their Best Life
Home Care:
FirstLight Home Care of Simi Valley is built on a simple but powerful belief: Every person deserves to have their best day, every day—especially in their later years. Guided by a deeply rooted “Culture of Care,” President Scot Kuratsu and his team provide non-medical, compassionate support that helps seniors and adults with disabilities remain safe, comfortable and independent in the place they call home.
Serving families throughout Ventura County and parts of Los Angeles—including West Hills and Canoga Park—FirstLight Home Care focuses on one-to-one connection at a time when older adults are increasingly at risk of being overlooked.
“We believe in building connections and bringing people together around a common purpose-driven mission: to help people have their best day, every day, whatever that means to them,” Scot shares. That mission shows up in the small daily moments...
“Being recognized by Activated Insights is a distinct honor that reflects our vision of a world in which all adults may live in comfort, dignity and independence in the place they call home,”
— PRESIDENT SCOT KURATSU
“We believe in building connections and bringing people together around a common purpose-driven mission: to help people have their best day, every day, whatever that means to them,” Scot shares. That mission shows up in the small daily moments: a caregiver preparing a favorite meal, a ride to a long-awaited appointment or a quiet conversation that eases loneliness.
FirstLight specializes in non-medical home care, offering a wide spectrum of services tailored to each client’s needs and preferences. Popular offerings include personal care, companion care, transportation, light housekeeping, meal preparation, memory care and respite care for family caregivers. Whether a loved one needs help with bathing and dressing, a companion to play cards and share stories, or support getting to social activities and medical visits, the goal is the same: to help seniors stay safe, healthy and comfortable in familiar surroundings where they can truly thrive in their golden years.
What sets FirstLight apart is its proactive approach to quality, anchored in what Scot calls “seven touch points” with clients and caregivers. These regular check-ins create real-time feedback loops, ensuring that care plans stay aligned with changing needs and that families feel heard and supported. Rather than waiting for a concern to surface, the team leans in—listening, adjusting and fine-tuning services so clients feel genuinely cared for, not simply “covered.”
That commitment to excellence extends behind the scenes, where caregiver education and professional development take center stage. FirstLight Home Care of Simi Valley recently earned the distinguished 2026 Best of Home Care—Leader in Training Award from Activated Insights, a leading workforce and experience platform for post-acute care. This national recognition is reserved for agencies that go above and beyond in training, placing FirstLight among the Top 25% of home care providers participating in the Activated Insights Training program.
To qualify for the Leader in Training Award, FirstLight implemented a robust training initiative
that supports continuous learning and growth for its caregiving team. Caregivers demonstrated strong participation in ongoing education, averaging at least eight completed training courses per participating caregiver. For families, this translates into something deeply reassuring: a care team equipped with the skills, knowledge and confidence to navigate realworld situations with professionalism and heart.
“Being recognized by Activated Insights is a distinct honor that reflects our vision of a world in which all adults may live in comfort, dignity and independence in the place they call home,” Scot says. The award also underscores a philosophy shared by Activated Insights, which believes that investing in education directly supports better experiences and outcomes for clients, caregivers and care teams alike. As CEO Bud Meadows notes, when agencies consistently prioritize learning and development, it strengthens their workforce and the care they provide.
In today’s rapidly changing world—where the aging population is growing and AI technology is transforming many aspects of daily life— FirstLight’s emphasis on genuine human connection feels especially vital. Seniors, Scot notes, are a demographic that is currently underserved and increasingly at risk of being overlooked. By pairing high standards of training with an unwavering focus on person-centered care, FirstLight strives to ensure that older adults are seen, heard and valued—never reduced to a number or a task list.
At its heart, FirstLight Home Care of Simi Valley is about dignity: honoring a lifetime of stories while supporting the day-to-day details that make life easier and more joyful. From the first phone call to the ongoing touch points that follow, families find a partner committed to walking alongside them through each stage of the caregiving journey.
FirstLight Home Care of Simi Valley is located at 2655 First Street, Suite 250. For more information, call 805.915.4706, email skuratsu@firstlighthomecare.com or visit SimiValley. FirstLightHomeCare.com .
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Floor Refinish and Repair
Looking to give a new life to your old and dull floors? Look no further! At Best Floors n More, we specialize in high-quality Floor Refinish services that will leave your floors looking brand new. Our team also specializes in flooring repair, ensuring that your floors are restored to their former glory.
Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL
An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.
Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.
A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.
Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?
A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.
Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?
A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.
Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?
A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.
“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”
Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?
A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”
Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.
This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.
for the exclusive reveal and more with Tim Tebow unfiltered.
the first time ever, Tim shares the inspiration behind a project he’s been holding close to his heart.
Redefining MVP
FEATURING TIM TEBOW
AMERICAN HEART Association
BREAKFAST IN RED SPOTLIGHTS
WOMEN’S HEART HEALTH
More than 100 community members gathered at the American Heart Association’s Valley to Ventura Breakfast in Red to celebrate heart health. Held on National Wear Red Day, February 6, at the Westlake Village Inn, the event highlighted the impact of heart disease on women and how the Association‘s Go Red for Women movement is driving change to improve women’s health.
The program featured Zuleyma Santos, who shared her experience living with heart failure while raising two young children. A fireside chat followed, with UCLA Health physicians Janki Shah, MD; Megha Agarwal, MD; Rajita Patil, MD; and Alina Katsman, MD, exploring the stages in a woman’s life that may impact her cardiovascular health, from puberty to pregnancy to menopause. Go Red for Women is sponsored nationally by CVS Health and locally by UCLA Health, AMGEN, and GOAT Payments and Maverick Payments. Conejo Valley Lifestyle Magazine is a media sponsor.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMIE PHAM PHOTOGRAPHY
FAMILY TIME is the Best Investment
These simple, yet intentional ideas can make the best memories.
EAT DINNER TOGETHER AS A FAMILY.
This meaningful time around the table is where connections happen. Let everyone share good moments from the day or something they struggled with. Create a jar of conversation starters, exchange giggles and cook up something delicious.
CREATE SURPRISES
Everyone likes to feel special – and surprised. The littlest things make the biggest impact: A backyard picnic; a sleepover in an indoor fort; an afterschool ice cream treat; a bathroom spa day.
CREATE FAMILY TRADITIONS
Build weekly or monthly traditions – movie nights with popcorn, board game marathons, a gratitude jar, evening bike rides, living room
dance parties, even a family book club to discover old favorites and new reads.
EXPRESS LOVE AND GRATITUDE
In busy seasons, it’s easy to forget to let a loved one feel appreciated and thought of. Tuck a hand-written note in a lunch box or give an unexpected hug; spend time sharing what you’re thankful for about them.
KEEP GENERATIONS LINKED
Consider Sunday meals with grandparents or weekly phone calls if distance separates. Invite them to share their childhood stories and treasured memories. Start a yearly family scrapbook filled with favorite photographs and vacation souvenirs.
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ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK
FOUR SIMPLE WAYS TO INVEST IN YOUR MORNING AND START YOUR DAY OFF ON THE RIGHT FOOT
habits for morning success
One of the best ways to invest in yourself is by creating a consistent and intentional morning routine. No matter how unpredictable or chaotic the rest of your day may become, starting your morning with self-care and purpose sets a positive tone that stays with you throughout the day. Once you develop a morning routine that truly resonates with you, you’ll look forward to it every night, knowing it will set the foundation for a productive and fulfilling day.
If you’re ready to elevate your mornings, here are some meaningful ways to invest in your routine and start each day on the right foot.
Be Your Own Barista:
One of life’s simplest pleasures is savoring a homemade coffee each morning. While skipping the drive-thru may be tough at first, brewing your own allows you to appreciate the process—and chances are, you’ll end up preferring your own perfect cup of joe.
Get Your Steps In:
An hour-long gym session before work may not be realistic, but a quick morning walk is. Use this time to clear your mind, enjoy nature, and listen to your favorite podcast or artist—an easy way to start your day feeling relaxed.
Enjoy Some Breakfast:
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, yet often the most overlooked. Setting your alarm just minutes earlier to prepare a fresh, nutritious meal can transform your morning, fueling your body and mind for a more energized and productive day.
Read A Book:
Starting your day with a book is far more calming than scrolling through social media. Reading in the morning helps ease you into the day, providing a peaceful and mindful escape that sets a positive, focused tone for what’s ahead.
The Holistic Approach to Wellness
CHIROPRACTIC CARE IN THOUSAND OAKS
Duben Holistic Chiropractic Center has served the area for 20 years helping over 5000 people find solutions for their:
• Pain Control
• Improved Coordination
• Health Building through customs designed Nutritional programs
Elevated Catering with a Global Twist Unforgettable Events Start Here
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• Emotional health and Stress reduction
Check out our website and start making your life better TODAY
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We also offer private chef services and hands-on cooking classes for those looking to create meaningful connections through food.
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Investment: What Truly Grows
When we think about investments, our minds often go straight to finances, retirement accounts, real estate and market trends. We’re taught to measure return on investment in percentages and projections. But some of the most important investments we make can’t be calculated on a spreadsheet.
They’re measured on the impact of our families, loved ones and friendships. Every day, we are investing—in our words, time, energy and attention. The question is not whether we are investing. The question is What are we choosing to grow?
I’m reminded daily that a community is built through small, consistent investments: a business owner mentoring someone just starting out, a family supporting local shops, a neighbor checking in. My business mixers are another great way: a room full of people coming together with open hearts and open minds. They are the powerful seeds that really make an impact on my life.
Investment requires faith. When you plant something, you don’t see the harvest right away. You trust that what you nurture today will flourish tomorrow. The same is true in our relationships, our businesses and even within ourselves. When we invest in people, something beautiful really happens—just the way we invested in our children and our grandchildren.
Collaboration replaces competition. Conversations turn into opportunities. A stronger community forms. The most meaningful returns often show up in ways we never expected. A connection made at the right time. Encouragement that changes someone’s direction. A shared idea that sparks new possibilities. True wealth is not just financial security. It is knowing you contributed. It is building something that lasts beyond you. It is creating ripples that touch lives you may never even meet. Being on the radio has really proved this. I always say nothing is by accident and all the right people show up.
I encourage you to reflect on where your investments are going. Are they aligned with your values? Are they nurturing the kind of life and community you want to see grow? Because when we invest with intention, in kindness, collaboration and connection, the return is unmeasurable. We’re all better together.
With the greatest gratitude,
Kim Pagano
Kim Pagano is a community connector, radio host of “The Kim Pagano Show – The Brighter Side of Life & Business,” and passionate advocate for supporting local businesses and families throughout Ventura County. Please tune in and join her business mixers. KimPaganoShow.com
ARTICLE BY KIM PAGANO
