Conejo Valley, CA May 2021

M AY 2 02 1

6th Annual Women's Issue

LI F E + C U LTU R E WO M EN I N B USI N ES S L A REI NA H I G H S C H O O L & MIDDLE SCHOOL B OYS & G I RL S C LU B S O F G RE AT ER C O N E J O VAL L E Y G L AS S AR T S C O L L EC T IVE

Leadership. Community. Commitment.

Whether Janet Garufis is modeling the way with her thoughtful leadership, driving organizational and operational excellence or volunteering in our local communities, we think she sets the gold standard in business.

As Chairman and CEO she lives and breathes Montecito Bank & Trust’s mission of making the communities we serve better places to live and work, and we are lucky to have her leading our team!

montecito.bank

ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT SELLING YOUR HOME? THE MARKET IS MOVING FAST, AND THE TIME TO SELL IS NOW!

CALL ROSEMARY TODAY AND SHE CAN HELP YOU GET THE HIGHEST SALES PRICE! Call or Text:

805.479.7653

Rosemary can give you advice on improvements that will highlight your home’s strengths, downplay its weaknesses and appeal to the greatest possible pool of prospective buyers. Although the structure itself is often the deciding factor, many steps must be taken to enhance your home’s features and increase the likelihood of it selling faster.

Innately understanding the finer points of caring for clients with high net worth, and even higher expectations, Rosemary utilizes multimedia print and digital internet advertising to masterfully unite sellers of the finest homes in Ventura County with quality buyers from across the globe.

LET ROSEMARY HELP PUT A SOLD SIGN ON YOUR HOME!

WORK WITH ROSEMARY ALLISON TODAY!

VOTED “WOMAN OF THE YEAR 2020” BY ASSEMBLYWOMAN JACQUI IRWIN AND VOTED “BEST” VENTURA COUNTY AGENT YEAR AFTER YEAR!

Voted Readers Choice BEST Real Estate Agent for 2020

Voted Readers Choice BEST Real Estate Agent for 2019

Voted Readers Choice BEST Real Estate Agent for 2018

Voted Readers Choice FAVORITE Real Estate Agent for 2017

Voted Readers Choice FAVORITE Real Estate Agent for 2016

Voted Readers Choice FAVORITE Real Estate Agent for 2015

Voted Readers Choice FAVORITE Real Estate Agent for 2014

805.479.7653

rosemaryallison@aol.com www.callrosemary.com CalRE #00545184 Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2020 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker logo, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Cal RE Lic .#00545184.

King of your own hilltop

Set on its own hilltop behind private gates with stunning panoramic views 2584 Alicante | 5 beds | 6 baths | Santa Rosa Valley | $3,299,000 | 2584Alicante.com

Truly a private Villa on a hilltop with over 8 acres, hidden behind electric gates. This one-of-a-kind architectural masterpiece provides a grand entrance offering stunning panoramic views, extraordinary craftsmanship, and a stylistic confluence of modernity and sophistication that redefines all expectations. The prestigious residence, with its perfectly conceived architecture, represents both majesty and family. Oversized 6-car garage, 6 bedrooms (or 5 bedrooms plus hobby room), 6 baths. Upstairs billiard, office or hobby room. Large downstairs bedroom with bath perfect for guests. The master quarters indulge the owner with fireplace, dramatic views of the majestic hills, and expansive viewing balcony. In the heart of Santa Rosa Valley with its gorgeous hillsides, and award winning SRTMS school. Private electric gated entrance for privacy. Soaring ceilings and custom cabinetry in huge family room. Plenty of room for guest / studio quarters on property. ‘King of the Hill’ exclusivity with captivating 360-degree views from private hilltop estate. Horse zoned.

805.479.7653 | rosemaryallison@aol.com | www.callrosemary.com | CalRE #00545184

The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2020 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker logo, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Cal RE Lic .#00545184.

Santa Rosa Valley’s prestigious gated Wildwood Ranch

Santa Rosa Valley’s Prestigious Gated Wildwood Ranch

11549 Sumac Lane | 5 beds | 6 baths | Santa Rosa Valley | $2,699,000 | www.11549Sumac.com

This gorgeous grand East Coast Traditional with spectacular features is situated on an acre in a most prestigious area in the heart Santa Rosa Valley’s prime gated Wildwood Ranch Estates. The finest quality, substance & style embody this world-class estate featuring a circular drive which leads to a covered Portico entry. There are a total of 6 bedrooms plus an office in the main residence with approximately 5,200 sq.ft. of living space. Offering an enchanting setting with meticulously manicured grounds, and timeless authenticity, this estate provides an exceptional lifestyle w/the quality & amenities equivalent to a superlative five-star hotel. The main level is complete w/impressive rich wood flooring in formal foyer, formal living rm, library/office, & family rm. Gourmet Remodeled kitchen with huge island, Thermador range, double ovens and travertine floors opening to formal dining room. 3 bedroom suites upstairs including the magnificent master suite w/fireplace, terrace, luxurious master bath with remodeled counters & flooring, a whirlpool sunken tub, enormous shower, and walk-in custom closets/dressing rms. The lower-level features 3 bedrooms, spacious media rm with volume ceiling, laundry room & bedroom that could be staff quarters. French doors opening to the natural beauty of a pool and spa with waterfall and completely private resort-like rear yard w/towering hedges, patios, lawn, spa, lighted tennis court, detached RV garage with epoxy flooring and custom cabinets. Huge pool house/ casita with fireplace, full bath, loft, walk-in closet, and walk-in bar which can be a guest house, gym for the fitness enthusiast or an ideal separate office. Solar system provides all electrical needs for the home

805.479.7653 | rosemaryallison@aol.com | www.callrosemary.com | CalRE #00545184

The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2020 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker logo, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Cal RE Lic .#00545184.

LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2021 PUBLISHERS

Ben Malkin | Ben.Malkin@LifestylePubs.com Robin Chesler | Robin.Chesler@LifestylePubs.com

My Wish Came True MANY YEARS AGO MY MOM AND DAD RAISED ME WITH THE EXPECTATION THAT BEING A GIRL I WOULD GROW INTO WOMANHOOD WITH MY PRIMARY GOALS BEING TO FIND A GOOD HUSBAND, HAVE CHILDREN AND

EDITOR

Tracy Marcynzsyn | Tracy.Marcynzsyn@LifestylePubs.com AD DESIGNER

Evan Deuvall L AYO UT DESIGNER

Jayme Emery

MAYBE A NICE QUIET AND UNCOMPLICATED JOB THAT WOULD SUPPLE-

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

MENT MY FAMILY INCOME. My degree from UCLA was almost an afterthought.

Sue Baldani, Alicia Doyle, Tracy Marcynzsyn, Kim Pagano, Alison Perks, Christine E. Wilson

I bought into that and got married and then had two wonderful children who have blessed me with four grandchildren. I put aside my acting and show biz aspirations

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

(which I have been told was a mistake) and channeled all of my creative energy into

Jeffrey Dawson Photography, Marie Gregorio-Oviedo, Isabel Lawrence, Blanca Schnobrich, Melissa Westervelt, Jordan Zobrist Photography

my family, even though somewhere in the back of my mind I knew that an important part of me was not being fulfilled.

The question was and in some circles still is, “Can a woman be successful in business, a profession or as a community leader and still have the time to be successful within her family?” Well, this is the 21st century and the resounding answer to that is “Yes!!!” It took me until my children had grown up and achieved emotional and financial independence on their own to eventually embark on what has become a successful and fulfilling business. What is even more gratifying is that our magazines have been able to support our community with regular coverage of the nonprofits that provide help to those who need it. However, in 2021, women are nurturing their

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

families and filling leadership roles in every part of our society, including the CEO of

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

General Motors and all the way up to the Vice President of the United States.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

The is our 6th Annual Women’s Issue featuring our community leaders who come

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

from many backgrounds and who are an important part of the zeitgeist that has

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

held our community together during the tumult and tragedy of a deadly pandemic.

Whether they own a business, serve as professionals or lead a nonprofit, these women helped keep our wonderful communities together. As a female business owner, I am proud to be among them and I am filled with admiration of what they and many other women have accomplished.

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA

Robin Chesler, Publisher

IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER Dr. Crystal Nāone, President & Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley 8

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

Proverbs 3:5-6 Conejo Valley Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Conejo Valley areas’ most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Conejo Valley Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2021

FEATURES 12 Caring for Community Boys & Girls Clubs Focus on Fortitude

14 Promoting Potential La Reina Fosters Student Success

22 Aiming High Empowered Women Make their Mark

22 32

32 You Can Have It All Local Businesswomen Share Success Secrets

12

14

DEPARTMENTS 8

Lifestyle Letter

12

Giving Back

14

Inspired By

18

Healthy Lifestyle

42 Locally Owned 46 Local’s Choice 50 Locals Only 54 Renovate & Refine 62 Parting Thoughts

GIVING BACK ARTICLE ALICIA DOYLE

SINCE THE GLOBAL PANDEMIC FORCED THE CLOSURE OF LOCAL SCHOOLS IN THE SPRING OF 2020, THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF GREATER CONEJO VALLEY HAS NOT ONLY REMAINED OPEN BUT HAS EXPANDED ITS SCHEDULE TO SERVE YOUTH MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY WITH THE EXCEPTION OF MAJOR HOLIDAYS. “We only closed two days in March (of 2020),” says Dr. Crystal Nāone, President & Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley. “We are guided by our mission to do everything we possibly can to support our youth, families and employees in coping with and emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic whole and even more resilient than before the crisis hit.”

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley currently serves children at two locations in Calabasas, as well as all four middle schools in Thousand Oaks.

“We are there for children during the hours when schools are closed,” Dr. Nāone says. Prior to Covid, “typically, kids would come to our clubs before school, during lunchtime and after school. When schools shut their doors, we opened from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day. In the summer we had to cut back and have been open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. since then.”

For children engaged in 100% virtual learning, “we are supporting them with their Zoom work,” says Dr. Nāone, adding that the staff has been trained to assist children with virtual studies so they don’t fall behind in class.

When club members complete virtual learning for the day, the Boys & Girls Club supplements their education with science, writing and reading. In the afternoon, the club provides enrichment activities that engage children through art, sports, leadership and performing arts.

“We figure out what kids really love and make sure that we have opportunities in those areas available for them,” Dr. Nāone says. “We’re doing all these programs in addition to helping them remain on-task during their virtual learning with their teachers.”

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Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS FOCUS ON FORTITUDE

Caring for community

and they showed up for us as heroes last year with donations.”

However, “it’s so much more expensive to run programs from 8 to 5, full day, every day. Plus, in terms of staffing, we have to have a one to six ratio, instead of a one to 25 ratio.”

Because this year marks the club’s 20th anniversary, donations are being sought through a monthly program, in which “our goal is to get 2,000 donors to give $20 a month.”

Looking back on the effects of the global pandemic, Dr. Nāone believes “people experienced loss in a way that no one alive has experienced before. There was real loss and we should take the time to honor and feel those emotions in order to heal and develop some level of resiliency.”

It’s important to remain hopeful, she further emphasizes.

“Look around outside at the incredible place we live in. Take count of all your good friends and family. Pay attention to and count the blessings that still exist.”

For more information or to make a donation, visit BGCConejo.org.

It’s important to note that the club’s six open locations are physically and emotionally safe spaces that are 100% in compliance with CDC recommendations at all times.

“We take safety seriously and are taking extra precautions to keep our members safe during these uncertain times,” says Dr. Nāone, further adding that members are placed in small, consistent cohorts throughout the month to minimize exposure. “As a result, we have had zero cases of Covid transmission in our clubs.”

Social-emotional learning for children is also a huge emphasis, with youth honing skills in areas such as self-management, responsible decision-making and self-awareness.

“We started socialemotional learning with our organization in 2019. We teach the kids these skills so they can apply them to their relationships—peer-to-peer and at home with their families,” Dr. Nāone says. “This saved us during Covid, because kids became mentally stressed and overwhelmed like we’ve never seen before.”

Another aspect never seen before was the rising need for financial assistance. The Boys & Girls Club has long offered scholarships for children whose families cannot afford to participate, and because of this, “nobody gets turned away,” Dr. Nāone says. As a result of the pandemic, “we went from about half the kids in our clubs being on some form of scholarship to 80-90% … families who needed us most tapped into this assistance.”

Many people assume that the Boys & Girls Club is wellfunded, she notes, “because we have a lot of great supporters CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

13

INSPIRED BY

La Reina Continues To Lead The Way LA REINA EMPOWERS YOUNG WOMEN TO BE INFORMED, EMPATHETIC AND ENGAGED MEMBERS OF SOCIETY. We help every student find her own voice, believe in herself as an independent thinker and form a deep commitment to serving others.

Steeped in nearly 60 years of the Educational Vision and Principles of the Sisters of Notre Dame, we boldly faced a shifting landscape. Our school was the only high school in the Los Angeles Archdiocese to fully open in October 2020, with in-person five-day-a-week instruction. We are proud that La Reina continues to lead the way in our community.

Our Catholic educational principles are even more relevant and urgent under the current realities of COVID-19 and efforts to address diversity, equity and inclusion. They deeply inform us and call us to action: to believe in the centrality of a good and provident God, to respect the dignity of each person as an image of God, to educate as Gospel witnesses and to provide an integrated education for transformation, enabling our students to become their best selves empowered to make a difference in today’s world.

La Reina is blessed to have a powerful and engaging leader, Principal Maggie Marschner. Her dedication and passion, advocacy and action were evident from the time she stepped on campus two years ago. Her drive to ensure that La Reina continues to prepare students for their futures has profoundly reshaped teaching and learning at our school.

Principal Marschner’s commitment to student-centered learning inspired her to introduce the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework during the 2019-20 school year. As called for by La Reina’s 2019-2024 Strategic Plan, Her Future, Our Focus, our teachers are facilitators of the content in their classroom, supporting students as they grapple and grow in their capacity to tackle complex tasks and higher level thinking. As the girls become experts of their own learning style, their ability to take on challenges and be resilient is strengthened. This symbiotic relationship between teacher and student that happens in a La Reina classroom is only possible because of the connections built day-to-day.

“LA REINA IS A PLACE WHERE MY IMAGINATION GROWS.” Youqi An

14

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

“La Reina has helped me grow into a more confident person willing to share my ideas. I now have the confidence that I can do something with my life. The teachers encourage the students to go outside of their comfort zone, pushing us to be the best version of ourselves. I never had confidence that I could master math until my teacher pulled me aside and told me that she believed in me. La Reina’s teachers see the best in each of us, and the students that we can become. My goal is to be able to help people and impact their lives,” says Sophia Bryson, Senior Class of 2021.

Creativity is fostered through a unified arts community, while our students learn about

themselves

through

faith-based

retreats and community service opportunities that enable them to discover the means to transform the world around them.

“La Reina is a place where I am free to be me; this school has given me more than an education. I joined mock trial and robotics and find the clubs allow me to explore my

“THE TEACHERS ENCOURAGE THE STUDENTS TO GO OUTSIDE OF THEIR COMFORT ZONE, PUSHING US TO BE THE BEST VERSION OF OURSELVES.”

interests. La Reina is a place where my imagination grows,” shares sixth grader Youqi An. La Reina alumnae are strong, determined and tenacious, ready to go where life takes them. Recent USC graduate and La Reina alum Evelina Godecki shared about her experience: “I think the one thing I will be forever grateful for about my La Reina experience

Sophia Bryson

was having the space and support to practice being a strong, bold, smart woman. In the technology space, I tend to find myself as the only woman in a meeting, but I have never been timid to speak up, discuss and collaborate with whomever I find myself working alongside.”

In today’s media-saturated world, it is not easy for girls to develop a healthy sense of self-worth, self-respect and purpose while preparing for their futures. To emerge from their teen years as confident, capable and compassionate young women, girls must first learn to believe in themselves and embrace their full potential. That’s what we do at La Reina!

To learn more about La Reina, visit LaReina.com or call 805.495.6494.

“I THINK THE ONE THING I WILL BE FOREVER GRATEFUL FOR ABOUT MY LA REINA EXPERIENCE WAS HAVING THE SPACE AND SUPPORT TO PRACTICE BEING A STRONG, BOLD, SMART WOMAN.”

Evelina Godecki

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

15

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HEALTHY LIFESTYLE ARTICLE ALISON PERKS

r : a F B itn e l e yc ss & n u F f C or e n Ever yo

CINDY PAVIN BEGAN HER FITNESS JOURNEY 20 YEARS AGO AS A PERSONAL TRAINER, ALONG WITH TEACHING CYCLING CLASSES, AKA “SPINNING.” She discovered CycleBar after moving to Camarillo in 2016 and finding a lack of spin classes in the area.

A one-of-a-kind experience and brand, CycleBar began in New York in the 90s and grew into the largest indoor cycling franchise in the world.

“CycleBar is exactly what I would have created had I done it on my own!” says Cindy, who shares about CycleBar and invites the community to come in for a spin. CycleBar offers classes in Camarillo and opens a new location in Thousand Oaks this month.

Q. WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT CYCLEBAR? A. CycleBar is an indoor cycling experience that offers a fun, high-octane workout for all ages and body types. Cyclebar fitness is not just a workout, it's a total full-body experience. Offering rhythm-based rides, CycleBar workouts are all-inclusive, regardless of your fitness level. The best part of this workout is that anyone can do it. The CycleStats system measures riders’ six key metrics of their daily record and historical performance and emails the results after each ride to help people track their fitness goals.

18

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

Q. WHAT IS CYCLEBAR’S MISSION? A. The goal is to provide an excellent ride for everyone. We strive to build a community of riders who use these workouts to clear their headspace, escape the stress in life and feel empowered.

Q. WHAT MOTIVATES YOU AT CYCLEBAR? A. I get emotional when I hear a story of one of our members who has benefited from what we offer. Everyone has a different story as to why they are coming to classes—different goals and different takeaways. If we are providing a safe space for each individual journey, that motivates us. CycleStar instructors strive to help riders improve performance, reach goals and change lives one ride at a time.

“You don't have to be the best in the room, just bring your best self,” says Senior Master Instructor Lolo Wilson.

Q. WHAT DO PEOPLE LIKE THE MOST ABOUT CYCLEBAR WORKOUTS? A. The high-energy, 45-minute classes are full of fun. We dance on our bikes and your first ride is always free! Our highly trained, skillful instructors teach and inspire with amazing music and choreography. CycleStars, as CycleBar instructors are called, push students to exceed their goals throughout the workout. They have a wealth of information through extensive training to share with students and they provide instruction and guidance throughout each class to ensure students get the most out of every workout.

Q. WHAT IS REQUIRED TO TAKE A CYCLEBAR CLASS? A. At CycleBar, we take care of everything for you, so all you have to do is show up, clip in and ride. We also provide complimentary filtered water, snacks and lockers that have coded keypads for easy access and safe storage of belongings. Wear athletic attire, such as a tank top or t-shirt and form-fitting shorts or pants during class.

At CycleBar, “We are United by the Beat... and Fueled by the Ride!” No matter where you're at in your fitness journey, there's a bike for you at CycleBar. CycleBar Camarillo is located at 2510 Las Posas Road in Camarillo. CycleBar Thousand Oaks opens this month at 1724 Avenida de Los Arboles. To learn more, call 805.384.9484 or visit CycleBar.com.

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

19

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ARTICLE TRACY MARCYNZSYN

( W ) WO MEN

P OW E R !

THE IMPRESSIVE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THESE

Drawing on their innate ability to nurture and create, women

AMAZING WOMEN ENCOMPASS A WIDE-RANGE OF

are impacting the world in unique and powerful ways. Here,

SUCCESSFUL ENDEAVORS WITH A COMMON THREAD

we proudly present some local superstars whose stories are

WEAVING THEM TOGETHER: SERVICE TO OTHERS.

sure to inspire and empower.

“I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS Photo Credit: Blanca Schnobrich

Oaks Christian School

COMFORT.” —PHILIPPIANS 3:14

LE SLIE HEIMBUCH, BSN, RN

Director of Medical Services at

ME. KNOWING THE LORD HAS A PLAN FOR ME BRINGS GREAT For Leslie, “Being a nurse is more than just a job, it’s a calling.” In her role at Oaks Christian School, she oversees a staff of nurses and volunteers and has made a Herculean above and beyond to shepherd the school’s staff, students and campus through the COVID pandemic and back to campus

by January 6.

Sharing her gifts with those both near and far, Leslie has volunteered with Africa Renewal Ministries for 15 years as a medical consultant at their Wentz Medical Center, leading medical missions to provide care and education to people in remote regions in Uganda. She also mentors students interested in medicine by providing them with travel and work opportunities and serves in her church community as well.

“There is joy and there is sorrow as we care for people,” says Leslie. “It’s an incredible feeling to help a patient heal and recover, However, it is also incredibly painful to lose a patient. The ability to manage those feelings takes a unique person.”

Greatest Accomplishments: Being married to my wonderful husband, Mark, for almost 31 years and raising my two children, Micah (23) and Mikayla (20); both of our children are pursuing careers in science and medicine like their mom and dad! Also, after supporting my husband during his PhD program, I went back to school to become a registered nurse, an incredible career that has blessed me in so many ways.

Inspiration: Clara Barton, a nurse in the Civil War who started the American Red Cross in 1881, said, “I may be compelled to face danger, but never fear it, and while our soldiers can stand and fight, I can stand and feed and nurse them.”

Words of Wisdom: Find what you love and work hard to make it happen.

Don’t be afraid to make decisions and don’t fear failure. Embrace it! It’s rare to have success without some failures along the way.

Goals: To continue working as a nurse and be a part of Oaks Christian School where I have worked for 12 years—it’s what I love. I am also looking forward to watching my children pursue their passions and supporting them in that.

R&R: Traveling the world and experiencing different cultures. I also love skiing and hiking the mountains with my friends!

22

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

“MAKE TIME TO SPEND BY YOURSELF SO YOU CAN DISCOVER THE SPARK

focus on your inner beauty, experience love and the

THAT YOU REALLY ARE.”

perfect person that you really are.”

“You are the light of the world,” says Lupe, who has made a lifetime of sharing

Greatest Accomplishments: I really worked very

her brilliance with the world. Recently celebrating her 92nd birthday, the former

hard to develop the National Women’s Employment

Catholic nun, activist, teacher and nonprofit founder has been deemed a “Rockstar”

and Education nonprofit while working in Washington

by Women’s Economic Ventures.

(DC) during the ERA.

As the recipient of the prestigious 2021 Rockstar: Lifetime Achievement Award,

I took a drop in pay to make welfare reform my

presented by WEV, Lupe will be honored for her extensive achievements on May 21

priority issue; we focused on working with women

at the virtual Spirit of Entrepreneurship Awards event (SOEFoundation.org).

to help them move from welfare into jobs…the model

The daughter of Oxnard fieldworkers, Lupe has spanned the globe, working in

we developed was implemented in several states—

Washington, DC, and locally in Ventura County, to promote equal rights for all and

Denver, Colorado, has continued with this effective

protect the environment. In 1978, she founded the National Women’s Employment

program since 1982.

and Education nonprofit aimed at welfare reform and received a President’s

I also work on protecting our water, air and soil

Volunteer Award from Ronald Reagan in 1983 for her leadership role in creating

from oil and gas pollutants. I lived in Oxnard, where

opportunities for women. Lupe also founded an environmental nonprofit, Stewards

they were drilling and fracking for oil and gas…it was

of the Earth, to protect against agricultural pollutants and fracking.

going through the aquifers and destroying our land.

Embodied in all she does, Lupe emphasizes, “God created us in his image and

Malibu was really very instrumental in helping us—

likeness; God’s perfection is with us already—that spark of life, of love, of success,

Susan Jordan, wife of Assemblyman Pedro Nava, and

being successful and happy and experiencing deep love for yourself and who

other activists helped us—it was the first time that any

you really are is very easy; you need to spend time….stop, take a deep breath and

nonprofit had beaten Exxon-Mobil—a lot of people remember me for that in Ventura County.

Inspiration: I’m really looking forward to spending more time for my next life in meditation and prayer; one of the things I find that is very rewarding is the new

Photo Credit: Marie Gregorio-Oviedo

trend of mindfulness. Meditation and yoga were always

LUPE ANGUIANO

part of my life. I also joined a women’s group—we enjoy wine and communicate. We boldly demonstrated that women 50 and older are strong and healthy, building a boat and sailing it from San Francisco to Alaska… ”Gracefully Aging and Growing Bold.”

Words of Wisdom: Take time to really think about what you love to do, and then start looking into how you could build an economic base with that in mind.

Goals: Investing in the stock market—I’m learning and what I’m finding is very exciting; I’m starting to invest in stocks that are focused on renewable energy and the building of our infrastructure in the U.S., which we really need. I see that as a possibility for women who are struggling financially in becoming wealthy; their wealth is part of building our economy for everyone.

Lupe continues to lobby for clean air and water and is currently involved with supporting Mark Kelley’s (Arizona) campaign for senator.

R&R: I love to walk, watch movies and be inspired

by Netflix.

Lupe’s incredible journey from birth in a Colorado

Founder, National Women’s Employment

railroad town through her 80s is captured in

and Education, Civil Rights Activist, 2021

Uncompromised: The Lupe Anguiano Story, available

WEV Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient

at LupeAnguianoStory.com.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

23

WO(W)MEN POWER! (CONTINUED)

Author, The Invisible String, The Invisible String Workbook, The Invisible Web, The Invisible Leash and You Are Never Alone (An Invisible String Lullaby)

Especially during the pandemic, Patrice spends time every day personally answering each and every email, Facebook and Instagram message she receives from fans.

PATRICE K ARST

“Because of the nature of my books, these tend to be some very profound letters that require time, love and energy to respond deeply to. Sometimes, it is life and death level of intensity. I just try to be the best me and offer love, hope and support,” says Patrice.

Greatest Accomplishments: Staying real and true and somewhat sane on a twirling ball that often feels like it’s spinning out of control; writing a book about LOVE and ENERGY and CONNECTION that has sold almost a million copies and is traversing the planet; and raising a really kind, loving man, who still likes to come and have weekly dinners, as a single mother all alone with no family or help—not necessarily in that order!

Inspiration: Every place that I look when I am in the right frame of mind. Honest, funny, real people that share from deep places and thus change the world.

Words of Wisdom: It’s all about perseverance, luck, grace and often a lot of prayer. Keep it personal—relationships are everything and word of

Photo Credit: Jeffrey Dawson Photography

mouth is still the most important secret to true and long-lasting success.

Goals: Continue to write and publish new

“IT’S ALL GOING TO BE OKAY.”

stories that matter, make The Invisible String into

Author Patrice Karst launched her writing career from the heart, penning

a film, go back to traveling the world to magical

The Invisible String to ease her son’s separation anxiety, and watched it sky-

places and find my last true love. Oh, and spiritual

rocket to success as the story’s message resonated with more than a million

enlightenment and liberation sound good too!

readers worldwide.

R&R: Hiking with Luna the wondrous wiener

A children’s book about the everlasting connection we have with our loved

dog, Yoga while Netflixing and getting together

ones, wherever they may be, The Invisible String continues to comfort kids of

with friends that still do that kind of thing! Thank

all ages, giving them hope as they deal with separation and the often difficult

God for my girlfriends!

subject of death.

PatriceKarst.com

24

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

“ENJOY THE LITTLE THINGS, FOR ONE DAY YOU MAY LOOK BACK AND REALIZE THEY WERE THE BIG THINGS.”

Greatest Accomplishments: My children are what I am most proud of. They have become loving

“SHE BELIEVED SHE COULD, SO SHE DID.”

and independent young adults. Sometimes I wish

Monica views every day as a gift and aims to appreciate “every little blessing”

they could live with me forever, but I know that part

along the way. Her optimistic outlook and heart for service have sustained her

of raising them to be independent is that we have to

through life’s overwhelming and life-changing challenges and heartaches, such

let them go.

as the loss of her 28-year-old son and her journey with breast cancer.

My first job in management was with McDonald’s

Influenced by her parents’ “Acts of Service”—“they were always the first

Corporation—as the administrative manager. I

to go help family and friends”—Monica’s dedication to a career working

planned the region’s first black-tie gala for Ronald

with nonprofits and helping others began with a volunteer opportunity with

McDonald House, raising over $100,000. My years

Relay For Life, raising over $10,000. That led to a 10-year career with the

at McDonald’s Corporation gave me the self-con-

American Cancer Society.

fidence that I could accomplish anything I set my

Today, as the Executive Director at Cancer Support Community, Monica applies insight from her personal experience with cancer to help others.

mind to. I am forever grateful to those executives that saw potential in me and pushed me out of my

“Understanding the value of emotional support through cancer is a real-life experience for me,” says Monica. “I have that motivation every day as we navigate the ever-evolving needs of patients and their families in our community.”

comfort zone!

Most recently, I kicked cancer’s ass! I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019. That day my world stopped and became blurry. My first thought was “What if I don’t survive, what will happen to my kids?” In the previous year, we lost Jonathan, my oldest son, and my kids lost their father a few months later. So, every day became about surviving, getting through surgery, treatments and focusing on living a long full life!

I am so very grateful for my family, friends, doctors and nurses that surrounded us during that very long year of treatment. I am now cancer-free and focused on my health and regaining strength. I learned to

Valley/Ventura/Santa Barbara

MONIC A MERRYMAN

Executive Director, Cancer Support Community

lean on others, to treasure each day and surround myself with positive people.

Inspiration: I am inspired by the end result and community. At the end of an event, I am energized by the enjoyment of the attendees and also challenged by “What can we do bigger and better next time?”

Words of Wisdom: Take care of your staff and they will take care of your customers. Relationships are a critical part of any job. Work/life balance is a reality!

Goals: I would like to get more involved with some sort of mentorship program, especially with young women in the underserved communities.

R&R: Spending time with family and friends, gardening, walking and travel with my husband.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

25

WO(W)MEN POWER! (CONTINUED)

“I’VE LEARNED THAT PEOPLE WILL FORGET WHAT YOU SAID, PEOPLE WILL FORGET WHAT YOU DID, BUT PEOPLE WILL NEVER FORGET HOW YOU MADE THEM FEEL.” —MAYA ANGELOU “OUR LIVES BEGIN TO END THE DAY WE BECOME SILENT ABOUT THINGS THAT MAT-

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley

26

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

DR . CRYSTAL- R AY K ANOEL ANI NĀONE

President & Chief Executive Officer,

TER.” —DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. A commitment to community is rooted in Dr. Nāone’s DNA as a Hawaiian, a culture where the concept of ‘ohana (family) reigns supreme.

Serving others for the past 25+ years through work and volunteering as a board member at various statewide, national and international organizations, Crystal (aka Kanoe) spends the majority of her days engaged in giving back to her community. In her current role as head of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Conejo Valley, she worked tirelessly with her team to keep the clubs open and safe throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, expanding their schedule and focusing on social-emotional learning to support families in need and promote resiliency.

Greatest Accomplishments: Earning my PhD while working full time and raising three socially conscious boys, two of whom were born while I was in the program. Being CEO of a Best Places to Work organization multiple times.

Inspiration: Native Hawaiians who have come before me and on whose shoulders I stand, including our ali‘i (royalty), who donated their wealth to future generations when they passed by creating large health and education nonprofits that still exist today.

Words of Wisdom: Do what you say you are going to do, do it on time and communicate what you have done to those who need to know.

Goals: To run a $50 million company that wins a Best Places to Work award before I retire.

R&R: I have a newfound love for hiking outdoors and yoga. I do those things in addition to CrossFit, hula, reading and traveling.

”NOTHING

Photo Credit: Melissa Westervelt

IS

IMPOSSIBLE

FOR

THOSE

WHO BELIEVE.” “THERE IS SOMETHING SPECIAL ABOUT ME, EVEN THOUGH I HAVE GONE THROUGH MUCH TRAUMA.” “WE ARE ALL FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE! NO ONE IS LIKE YOU, SO BE UNIQUE.” A trailblazer in the fight against domestic violence and abuse for over 50 years, Trish draws from her own traumatic experiences to help others transform their lives and recover from trauma.

Reaching out to women and encouraging and directing them to fulfill their calling in life, Trish founded Safe Passage Heals, providing thousands of women and children with the support and resources needed to escape domestic violence.

Greatest Accomplishments: I’m the wife of a minister and the mother of two beautiful daughters and friend to many amazing women—that tops my list. Being able to forgive myself so I can forgive others who have hurt me has been very liberating. By doing this, I was able to move forward to a new life and accomplish whatever I put

TRISH STEELE

my hands to. What I went through paved the way for Safe Passage Heals, which has a 95% success rate of breaking abusive cycles in the lives of countless women and children.

Inspiration: I’m inspired by the stories of women who have overcome past trauma and drama and found a new life. Inspiring stories always motivate me with more passion to reach higher in my goals and my life.

Words of Wisdom: Follow your passion and your heart will lead you. Every good and perfect talent comes from above. Don’t despise small beginnings.

Goals: I will be launching “Time2Heal,” a website providing access to counselors and inspiring tools to heal from trauma. This past year has taken a toll on many lives. Many are living in fear, depression and hopelessness—my heart goes out to them.

R&R: I always take time for myself and enjoy

Founder and CEO, Women Crowned In Glory, Inc./Safe Passage

my alone time to recharge and create time for fun—that could be walks on the beach and smelling the fresh ocean air. I also love spa days and weekly outings with my gal pals. As for sports, on my bucket list is mastering golf, tennis and dancing. I danced my way through my healing from past abuse and hurts, now I want to dance to celebrate my life!

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

27

WO(W)MEN POWER! (CONTINUED)

MONIC A WHITE

President & CEO, Food Share of Ventura County “IF NOT US, THEN WHO? IF NOT NOW, THEN WHEN?”

Inspiration: Jewel Pedi, one of Food Share’s founders from 43

It’s no wonder Monica views this quote displayed on the wall in

years ago, is my North Star. At 93 years old, she still checks in to hear

her office every day, as she epitomizes its message of taking per-

about Food Share’s wins, our challenges, and forever inspires me, in

sonal responsibility to make the world we live in a better place.

her own words “to keep feeding people.”

At the helm of Ventura County’s largest food bank, Monica’s vision

Words of Wisdom: From my grandma: “Speak loudly so the people in

is to ensure that “nobody will ever go hungry in Ventura County.” She

the back can hear you.” From my high school best friend: “You can’t be

also serves as Vice Chair on the Board of Directors of the California

wonderful at everything you do, just try it.” From my dad: “Go to college,

Association of Food Banks and is a former board member of several

study business and pick a school with a football team.” From my uncle:

nonprofits, including the Museum of Ventura County and Women’s

“Network. It’s all about who you know.” From a former boss: “I know you

Economic Ventures.

can do it.” From my mom: “Just be yourself and they’ll love you.”

Greatest Accomplishments: Besides my exceptional children, I’m

R&R: I’ve been in a monthly book club for 20 years and host two little

most proud of leading our county’s largest hunger-relief organization

free libraries, one at work and one at home. When I’m not reading or

through a complete reorganization while responding to increased

working, I enjoy hunting for sea glass, loving on my two incredibly large

hunger following two catastrophic fires and now a global pandemic.

dogs and painting dot mandalas on rocks collected from the beach.

28

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

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CELEBRATING WOMEN IN BUSINESS BRYNNE DESMARTEAU-RAY CFO/Escrow Operations Manager, Affirmative Escrow

Residential and commercial real estate escrow services Brynne loves the feeling of accomplishment that comes from handling a challenging escrow.

“I enjoy troubleshooting and resolving issues that arise and knowing that I can truly make a difference,” she says, noting that “Success comes from truly loving what you do for a living and caring about how you affect others with your actions. I keep that in mind in all that I do.”

She advises women to “take pride in your work and expect the same from your team and always ask yourself, ‘Can I do better?’”

The secret to her success: “I always treat others the way I want to be treated and give the benefit of the doubt.”

805.496.7254 | AffirmativeEscrow.com

STEPHANIE HARRISON Aurora Salon

An upscale and modern salon, where stylists are always striving to make every client feel their most empowered, best version of themselves 805.370.0001 | AuroraSalonWLV.com

STEPHANIE KORDAN

Owner/Creative, The Beautiful Painting Co. Decorative interior painting and Venetian plaster wall treatments Stephanie loves creating beautiful living spaces with paint and plaster.

She advises women to “bring joy to your clients by listening to what they want and collaborate together on making it happen” and encourages women to know their value.

“Ask for your worth and avoid giving discounts on your services if it doesn’t sit well with your gut instinct,” she notes. 310.309.9469 | TheBeautifulPainting.co

KIM MASELLI

Artistic Director, California Dance Theatre and Pacific Festival Ballet Cultivating a love for the performing arts with the finest in dance education, performing opportunities and community outreach for 35 years in the Conejo Valley Kim enjoys working with her colleagues to inspire and train students, “giving them a lifelong love and appreciation for dance, whether recreationally or in pursuit of a professional dance career” and “creating and presenting beautiful ballets at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center for our community to enjoy!”

She advises women to “Pursue your vision and follow your dreams. You can achieve whatever you set your mind and heart to. Believe in team effort and surround yourself with like-minded professionals” and “treat people with kindness and respect.”

818.707.3267 | CalDanceTheatre.com | 805.906.2086 | PacFestBallet.org

32

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

KUDOS TO THESE INCREDIBLY ACCOMPLISHED WOMEN IN BUSINESS, WHO HAVE PROVEN THEIR GRIT AND COMMITMENT TO SUCCESS DURING TODAY’S UNIQUE CHALLENGES. Here, they share advice, success secrets and inspiration with the world—You Go Girl!

ARTICLE TRACY MARCYNZSYN

CANDICE NEWLAND

Artist/Designer, C Newland Designs Interior design services, including design consult, furniture and accessories, custom window coverings, installation and remodeling Candice loves working with clients to create one-of-a-kind interior spaces that reflect their lifestyle with function and flair. Approaching each design project as a creative process, she takes pride in helping clients identify their unique needs and create their ultimate living spaces. Candice and her team provide personalized service aimed to transform your environment and achieve a perfect balance between inspiration and tranquility in your home. 805.460.4161 | CNewlandDesigns.com

KRISTINA JONES

CEO/Lead Designer, Cat in a Hammock Outdoor living design and build construction company “Designing dreamy projects that enhance the lifestyle of each family” is Kristina’s passion.

“I love redefining the roles of women in society and what is considered a ‘woman’s’ or a ‘man’s’ job,” she says, noting, “Some would say that construction is a man’s world, and I say that it’s complete with a woman in it.”

She advises women to “be your feminine self even if your work environment is pulling for a more masculine way of being. And be persistent; you might lose a battle, but you’ll win the war. Shake it off and keep going!” 805.263.4200 | CatInAHammock.com

ROSEMARY ALLISON

Director of Estates, Coldwell Banker Realty #00545184 Redefining the art of marketing luxury estates Combining her unique marketing techniques and negotiating skills, Rosemary is a leader in Prestige Estate sales throughout Ventura County.

Noting that the “road to success is always under construction,” Rosemary advises, “the key to realizing a dream is to focus not on success but on the goals you have achieved each day.”

Providing “Quality customer service is the most important key to longevity in this business,” she notes, adding, “How does one rate their quality of service? By rating what you did, not by what you said you would do.” 805.479.7653 | CallRosemary.com

CHRISTINE WILSON

Owner/Audiologist, Conejo Hearing Center Providing hearing testing and solutions for children and adults with hearing difficulties Christine loves “being in business for myself in order to make the decisions that are in the best interest of our patients. I am always learning about new technologies that I can bring to our patients,” and “I enjoy seeing the success patients achieve and their ability to continue doing the things they love by improving and restoring their hearing.”

She advises women to “Stay focused on what you love to do and know there will be ups and downs. Focus on your successes, not the failures, and keep moving forward. Be open to new ideas, keep learning and be willing to adapt to change.” 818.991.3800 | ConejoHearingCenter.com CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

33

CELEBRATING WOMEN IN BUSINESS (CONTINUED)

CINDY PAVIN

Owner, CycleBar-Camarillo & Thousand Oaks & Pure Barre-Camarillo Boutique fitness brands that focus on inclusivity, inspiration and community; classes are rhythm-based, exciting and fun!

Cindy loves “watching so many people transform their physical and emotional health through our workouts, especially during Covid, when we are all looking for the ‘new normal.’”

Believing in the power of women: “If there is to be revival in the world, it will come through the influence of women,” Cindy advises, “Every young girl should set for her great central aim in life to be a woman, a true, noble, pure, holy woman, to seek ever the highest things. That should be her aim—to realize in her character all the possibilities of her womanhood.”

Further, “Accept your duty, and do it. Accept your responsibility and meet it. Be true in every relation you are called to fill” and “Always have vision for what could be!” 805.358.8350 | CycleBar.com

STACEY DORENFELD Dorenfeld Law

Serving a wide-ranging clientele in the areas of business law, real estate and insurance law for more than 30 years Stacey enjoys working with the firm’s business, real estate and insurance litigation attorneys to help clients.

“I love it when we have a successful outcome for a client. Knowing that we were able to solve a client’s legal problem definitely is the highlight of my job!” she says.

She advises women to “be courageous enough to know who you are from within; know your strengths and your talents and visualize what you want and then be brave enough to take risks to get there. A successful businesswoman knows she can be so impactful that she can change the world. Confidence sometimes is difficult to find, but once you grab a piece of it, you will learn and grow into anything you want.” 818.865.4000 | DorenfeldLaw.com

DANIELLE BLOCK Epicurean Olive Oils

Offering a carefully selected assortment of 100% extra virgin olive oils, flavored oils, aged balsamic vinegars, truffle oil and gourmet nut and seed oils from around the world Danielle offers guests complimentary tastings of their varied olive oils daily. She aims to create a warm and friendly atmosphere that attracts chefs and connoisseurs and also inspires the casual cook to infuse a little adventure and fun into their meals.

805.383.6489 | EpicureanOliveOils.com

NANCY MARKS

Owner, Glass Arts Collective Wonderful studio teaching classes in glass— fused, stained and mosaic—and a gift shop of beautiful handmade gifts “This truly is my dream job! I love sharing it with everyone,” says Nancy, noting her joy at “seeing people experience glass as an art for the first time.”

The nation’s largest and most trusted franchise provider of

She invites others to try a class: “Time spent

professional pet-sitting services, including private daily dog walks,

creating in the studio is therapeutic, and you get

puppy care, cat sitting, overnight care, pet waste removal, pet

to take home your masterpiece” and visit the spar-

wedding services, boarding and pet transportation

kling gift shop: “It’s full of colorful inspiration and

Ashley enjoys “meeting pets and their humans all

positive energy.”

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

throughout the Conejo Valley” and providing “peace of mind

She advises women to find others for “your

to my clients when it comes to their pets’ care so they have

‘Board of Directors’ Everyone has a different

one less thing to worry about.”

perspective, and I had to get my ego out of the

She achieves success by “treating my clients as if they are

way and really hear their input. It was invaluable!”

family, being honest and doing the little things that set me

818.318.1462 | GlassArtsCollective.com 34

ASHLEY WRIGHT

Owner, Fetch Pet Care Conejo Valley

apart.” 805.401.0744 | FetchPetCare.com/ConejoValley

MELISSA KING

Certified Health Coach and Personal Trainer, Honeybee Wellness Focused on creating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle that helps minimize anxiety and depression Melissa guides women through the process of creating personalized sustainable healthy lifestyle habits to minimize their anxiety and depression so they can be lean, strong and energetic. She most enjoys being alongside her clients “on their health journey and watching them transform into a healthier version of themselves physically and mentally.”

She advises women to “Be your authentic self and be direct in asking for what you want.” 775.250.5218 | MelissaKing.net

LINDA BRAUNSCHWEIGER

CEO, Housing Trust Fund Ventura County Nonprofit

early-funding

lender

for

developers

creating affordable housing options in Ventura County Preserves donated land for the development of affordable communities Linda loves “being creative and collaborative to solve the affordable housing crisis.”

She advises women to “Be an innovator of ideas, a connector to others, builder of collaborations, and be honest. Know your God-given talents and use them as your unique asset. Never give up!” 805.384.1144 | HousingTrustFundVC.org

JENNIFER FRANCIS In Its Proper Place

Simplify, declutter, organize Jennifer’s passion is to help clients create a simplistic environment that will relieve stress and allow for more enjoyment at home. From organizing and purging to visual merchandising and home staging, Jennifer helps ensure everything is In Its Proper Place.

818.632.0465 | InItsProperPlace.com

KIM PAGANO

Business and Media Coach/Radio Host, The Kim Pagano Radio Show Bringing listeners “The Brighter Side of Life” for more than 16 years “I have been interviewing and learning about what makes people feel their best in Business and in life and how they succeed. Sixteen years ago I was fortunate enough to be asked to be a host on the Kim Pagano Radio show KVTA. com, where I have a voice to help the community and have the opportunity to dig deeper with guests from all over the world and share their life lessons throughout my radio shows and podcasts and in my business coaching,” says Kim. Kim loves “meeting new people and all of the events,” as well as “coaching my clients through my Finding Your Voice through my Signature Coaching Series.”

LEAH ARREDONDO Owner, L.A. Hair Design

Certified REDKEN Colorist and Master Cutter in a beautiful private suite in Westlake Village “Kindness, consistency, great work and truly lis-

She advises women to “have a voice. If you don’t speak

tening to my clients in every way has been my key to

up, life will happen for you, and it might not be the way

success,” says Leah, currently offering 50% OFF an

you want it.” Also, “love yourself first and believe in your

entire hair service to first-time clients.

visions. You will get knocked down; learn to pick yourself

She advises women to “Be consistent, delivering

up, dust yourself off and carry on with your vision.”

805.419.0008 | KimPaganoShow.com

your absolute best results with a positive attitude at all times!” 805.871.9910 CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

35

CELEBRATING WOMEN IN BUSINESS (CONTINUED)

LAURA RAULINAITIS

CFP®, Senior Vice President Lake Avenue Group Morgan Stanley Total wealth management and financial planning for individuals, families and small business owners Laura loves “being a trusted part of family discussions” and “building and maintaining those lifelong relationships,” noting that that the secret to her success lies in the fact that “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”

She advises women, “The reason that Ginger Rogers was a better dancer than Fred Astaire is because she did everything he did, but backwards and in heels!” 805.494.0236 | Advisor.MorganStanley.com/ The-Lake-Avenue-Group

TERRI HILLIARD OLSON

Esq., Principal, Law Office of Terri Hilliard

A comprehensive trust and estate practice, centering on advanced estate and business succession planning, asset protection, special needs trusts and family protection for seniors Terri enjoys “being a trusted advisor, building long-lasting, multi-generational professional relationships” as she and her team advocate for the elderly and those suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia.

She advises women to “stay the course and aim for the stars—you can do this and be of service.”

805.201.2552 | TerriHilliard.com

BRITTNEY HENDERSON

MA, LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist), Founder of Luminous Clarity Family Therapy, Inc., Luminous Clarity Working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, complex trauma, PTSD, grief/loss and chronic mental illness Brittney provides affordable individual, family, couples and group psychotherapy. She enjoys “being able to provide a safe, nonjudgmental therapeutic environment to support growth and healing” and “being a part of my clients’ journey and seeing their hope, healing and light in their eyes.”

She advises women to “Pursue something you love. If you are passionate about what you do, if you love and enjoy your work, then it isn’t work at all.” 805.267.1869, ext. 2351 | Luminous-Clarity.com

JANET GARUFIS

Chairman and CEO, Montecito Bank and Trust The oldest and largest, locally owned community bank on the Central Coast; offers a variety of competitive deposit, lending and Wealth Management solutions for businesses and consumers Janet enjoys solving problems and mentoring others.

“I learned early on in my career that I was good at evaluating a situation, breaking it down into smaller components, and then finding a new way to approach the solution. I am a process-oriented thinker and it has served me well over the years.

In fact, most of whatever success I have enjoyed has to do with finding a better way to build a mousetrap and improving the outcomes,” she says, adding, “Now that I am in the later part of my career, I find joy in mentoring others to help them identify their strengths and build on their opportunities.”

Janet encourages individuals to “have the courage to be your authentic self and to work every day to improve on that. To always be ‘becoming’ the best version of YOU.” Aligned with MB&T’s philanthropic commitment—donating $1.5 million annually and volunteering over 7,500 hours to local nonprofits—Janet’s secret to success is “really to share it with others. No one person can really be a success without a whole village of support…my success is the success of the team, so ensuring that every team member is performing at their highest and best is part of my responsibility.”

Also, “be willing to invest in yourself, to take smart risks, leave doors open and be ready to say YES when the next opportunity presents itself,” she adds. 805.963.7511 | Montecito.Bank 36

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

MELANIE GARIBAY

CEO & Cofounder, Nectar of the Dogs Wine Inspired by the LOVE of our four-legged angels and our passion for wine, a portion of sales benefit nonprofit pet rescue organizations Melanie finds supporting pet rescue organizations to be the most rewarding part—along with researching wines—of her business. Inspired by the love of her dogs and a passion for wine, Melanie started her wine company “because doing something for a cause is very fulfilling.”

She advises women to “stay focused on your dreams, work hard to achieve them, but don’t forget to enjoy the journey along the way. Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life!”

702.275.0482 | NectarOfTheDogsWine.com

CRISTINA MARKIEWICZ, DDS

Family and Cosmetic Dentist, Newbury Park Dental Arts Experience all that modern dentistry has to offer, including a comprehensive list of general, restorative and cosmetic dental services to meet the needs of your whole family; Our goal is to assist each patient in achieving and maintaining long-term health and a beautiful smile Cristina loves delivering life-changing dentistry and putting patients at ease.

“We help our patients overcome fear and anxiety that keep most from receiving treatment,” she says.

She advises women to “Never stop learning or improving yourself to be the best for others.”

805.498.0400 | NewburyParkDentalArts.com

EILEEN SMULSON

Founder and Executive Director, Operations Blankets of Love An animal welfare and emergency relief nonprofit organization in California and beyond; donates food and other vital supplies to shelters, rescue groups and pets of the homeless Eileen loves “knowing that we are making a difference in a life of a homeless animal to be healthier and happier, which makes them more adoptable.”

She encourages women to “Go for it! If you have a deep passion for something that you would like to turn into a business— you’ll never know what could happen if you don’t try.”

818.402.6586 | OBOL.info

JILL STOWELL, MS Founder, Executive Director Stowell Learning Center

Helping children and adults permanently change dyslexia and other learning and attention challenges by addressing the underlying, lagging processing/learning skills at the root of the problem so that students can reach their potential and thrive in school Jill loves that “every single day for the last 35 years, we have gotten

MISSY KARJALA

Certified Massage Therapist, Owner, Rejuvenating Massage Therapy Mobile chair massage therapy and table massage service

to bring hope and real change to the lives of bright, misunderstood,

“Building client-friend relationships” is

struggling students and their families. Working with our amazing team,

important to Missy, who advises women to

students, and parents is a journey of discovery, growth, and joy!”

She advises women to “build a culture within your team that

“Never, ever give up!”

909.753.4495 | MissyRejuve.com

makes your business a great place for humans to be—to thrive, grow, and to change the world!” 877.774.0444 | StowellCenter.com

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

37

CELEBRATING WOMEN IN BUSINESS (CONTINUED)

LYNDSAY ROARK

Ventura Home and Design A full-service interior design firm Lyndsay enjoys creating spaces that reflect her clients’ unique lifestyles.

“I want my clients to walk in the door and find themselves in a space they absolutely love to be and that quiets the noise of all our busy lives,” she adds.

805.232.8526 | VCHomeAndDesign.com

LORI DONNELLY C.HT

Owner Wolf Creek Wellness Hypnotherapy

Helping clients achieve their goals through techniques and practices such as Hypnotherapy, Reiki, PLR (past Life Regression), NLP, MER, IMET, Yoga and massage “The most rewarding part of doing what I do is teach clients how to remove limiting beliefs—not just about themselves but about others and the world we live in,” says Lori, who is passionate about using “hypnotherapy combined with other tools to help clients reach goals and blow the lid off old belief systems.”

Lori says believing in your vision is key to success.

“For women this is especially important, as we have so many divergent views as to what it means to be a successful woman in the modern world,” says Lori, adding, “It’s a process of imagination. Think about something you want— anything. See it, obsess over it, love the idea of having it! Imagine it in your world and how it makes you feel having ‘this.’ This process makes you feel ‘AS IF’ you already have it…Your mind has it locked in as GPS for your future.

Your body can’t help but move toward it. Once you get into practice with this process, it becomes automatic and habitual, as many successful people will attest to.” 424.644.9598 | WolfCreekWellness.us

MICHELLE ZIMMER

President and CEO, WundaBar Pilates Westlake Village Bridging the gap between the slow and cerebral and the pound it out with no methodology, infusing the integrity of Pilates into the high-energy group fitness space Michelle loves “interacting with my amazing clients and community,” noting that customer service is her top priority.

Excited about sharing the patented Wundformer with clients and teaching from an educational standpoint, Michelle advises women to “be passionate about what you do, because then it will show and you unequivocally will be successful.” 805.300.1124 | WundaBar.com/Westlake-Village

LISA ZONDER

Attorney/Owner Zonder Family Law Group

Expert legal team members provide thought leadership for clients who worked hard to build wealth by protecting privacy, preserving wealth, deploying top negotiation strategies and creativity without expensive court battles “Meeting the client where they are,” is important to Lisa, who provides support to help clients “achieve clarity, resolution and security as they move on to the next chapter of their lives.”

She advises women to discover their unique gifts.

“Don’t try to become someone you do not want to be just to compete in a traditionally masculine world,” Lisa says, instead, “Hard work, constant learning, creative thinking and a commitment to your clientele will take you much farther than cutthroat competition (and make you happier too!).” 805.777.7740 | ZonderFamilyLaw.com 38

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

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A

The Art Of Glass: Creating Beautiful Handmade Treasures

ND LOOKING FOR A FUN WAY TO SPEND A COUPLE OF HOURS EITHER ON YOUR OWN OR WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS WHILE MAKING A BEAUTIFUL TREASURE AT THE SAME TIME? Then take a class at Glass Arts Collective in Westlake Village.

The light-filled, airy 1,700-square-foot studio is a fully equipped glass-making shop that inspires people’s creativity.

“The energy that is coming off the colors of the glass is amazing,” says owner Nancy Marks. “People just want to touch it.”

When you first come in for an introductory class, you’ll learn a bit about the different types of glass and, most importantly, the basic skills to make lovely designs.

“The classes are really about teaching technique and refining your comfort with those techniques by having someone there to guide you,” she says.

You’ll start out with a flat glass base in which to place your glass pieces, which you cut using a scoring tool and a breaking tool to get different sizes and shapes of glass. You can use one layer or stack the glass to make even more complex designs. There are usually four projects to choose from—a coaster, a plant stake, magnets or a suncatcher. In addition to the basic glass pieces you’ll receive for your project, there’s also a treasure chest of various-sized color pieces.

Once finished, participants leave their project with Nancy, who will put them in the kiln so the glass pieces can fuse together. Participants then return to pick up their masterpieces.

“What you create is unique, and they make great personal gifts for family and friends that they can’t find anywhere else,” says Nancy.

ARTICLE SUE BALDANI

M

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Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

The classes progressively build your skills; it’s not a onetime thing. No matter what you do, says Nancy, it takes practice. But people should not be intimidated by it.

A

“I try to emphasize how easy it is,” she notes. Most

E D

classes are two-hours long, with plans for multi-day summer

are geared toward every skill level for those 7 years of age and up.

The studio can be reserved for birthday parties, girl scout events and corporate team-building activities.

“We also have wine night, where participants bring in the wine, or there’s a brewery in the same complex, so people can stop there and

TREASURES

workshops, as well as holiday-themed classes later in the year. Classes

When the owner decided to close the Westlake location, Nancy didn’t have a place to go anymore.

“My husband encouraged me to open my own

studio. He said, ‘You love people and you love sharing, and your enthusiasm and the way you feel while doing it is contagious,’” she shares.

bring in beer,” says Nancy, a technology professional who has worked

Nancy brought in artist Carolyn Schlam, an

for Sony Pictures, IBM and Toshiba, who never thought she would

award-winning painter and glass artist, who sug-

own an art studio. But when her mother started taking fused-glass

gested expanding from just fused glass to mosaic

classes at her assisted-living facility, Nancy wanted to learn more.

and stained glass; she also hired multiple instruc-

“I didn’t really know what my mom was doing, but she was so excited,” she explains.

So, she found a fused-glass studio and, after making a few projects, was impressed with the results. Nancy never considered herself artistically gifted.

“I made a little box and two necklace pendants, and when people saw them they asked where I got them,” Nancy recalls.

She then held her mom’s 85th birthday party in what is now her

tors. For experienced artists, she offers Open Studio

memberships. There is an hourly, monthly or annual membership, so they get use of the studio and the tools, and then pay for their supplies and kiln time.

“We have some really talented people coming into the studio and I feel so blessed to have so much

talent in our area finding me,” she says. “It’s primarily by word of mouth.”

glass studio, but which at the time was owned by someone else.

“She and her friends were able to make coasters and sun catchers and they loved it!” Nancy notes, adding, “The instructor was

To find out more, or to take a class, visit GlassArtsCollective.com or call 818.318.1462.

so inviting and so warm, and she’s the one who got me hooked.”

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

43

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Call today — Discover the power of your own mind 44

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

LOCAL’S CHOICE

ARTICLE ALICIA DOYLE

CUT & COLOR FOR THE LOVE OF IT AT L.A. HAIR DESIGN

46

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

WITH A 95% CLIENT-RETENTION RATE, LEAH ARREDONDO

Since going pro, Leah has built a loyal clientele base in the

HAS EARNED A REPUTATION AS A MASTER CUTTER AND

Conejo Valley, especially in Oak Park, where she worked for the

COLORIST WHOSE EXPERTISE LIES IN HER LOVE OF

majority of her career.

MAKING SOMEONE LOOK AND FEEL BEAUTIFUL.

“I moved away for awhile, then relocated back to Westlake Village,”

“It’s an innate passion,” says Leah, a Redken Certified Colorist

says Leah, who opened her studio in the area in October 2019.

and graduate of Vidal Sassoon Academy. “I enjoy making a dif-

“Unfortunately, we went into full lockdown in March (of 2020), so this

ference in people’s lives and this is one way for me to do it.”

is still brand new. I’m reopening again, following all CDC guidelines.”

A resident of Thousand Oaks, Leah has been busy since the

While she is not taking walk-ins, “people can call me and

pandemic forced the closure of hair salons, which prompted

make an appointment by phone,” as far as her services are con-

many people to color their hair at home.

cerned, “I don’t do up-dos and I don’t do hair extensions. I don’t

“My number one specialty—and favorite thing to do—is

do anything but cut and color.”

color correction,” says Leah, who works at L.A. Hair Design

Leah also takes pride in her ability to do pixie cuts, which have

in Westlake Village. “If someone has done their hair at home

earned praise from many clients, including Rebecca C., who stated

during Covid, or if they’ve had a botched job, I don’t just fix it. I

that “no one could really nail my blonde pixie…I’ve had some okay

correct it and make it better than ever.”

cuts and a lot of botched cuts. A pixie can go wrong fast.”

While she specializes in women’s hair, she also has a bar-

Once Rebecca found Leah through word of mouth, she gave

ber’s license, and believes, “I can do a better man’s haircut than

her a rating of five out of five stars, stating that “she knows her

any barber.” She is also a Toni&Guy Master Cutter, adding to

stuff…my blonde pixie is perfect.”

her list of expertise.

Now that Leah has reopened her salon in Westlake Village—

“If there was such a thing as a PhD in hair, I would have it,” she

where she was voted a “neighborhood favorite”—she is offering

says. Additionally, “I’ve either placed or won every competition I’ve

a complimentary coffee, wine and beer bar. For a limited time,

ever entered, whether it be cutting or coloring.”

she is offering 50% off an entire service. This offer is valid for

Looking back on her vocation, Leah remembers when she started coloring and cutting her friends hair at age 12.

“I just had this urge,” says Leah, who grew up in the San Fernando Valley. “I just had this eye. I would look at somebody and know how to lay the hair. I didn’t have any professional training—I could just feel it. I really believe I was born to do this.”

As a junior high school student, she cut and colored the hair of her friends until word of mouth brought her more clients.

first-time clients 16 years or older.

“I would love for you to take advantage of this special offer as my gift to you,” she says. “It gives me great satisfaction when clients leave looking and feeling amazing.”

Above all, “I just want to make somebody look and feel like the best version of themselves,” Leah emphasizes. “When I’m done with someone’s hair, they’re so happy, and it makes me happy to know I did that.”

“One friend would see another friend and say, ‘wow—you did that?’” she recalls. “So I was the one cutting and coloring my

To make an appointment, or for more

friends’ hair, and even their moms’ hair.”

information, call Leah at 805.871.9910.

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

47

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G l a ss St u d i o O f f er ing C l a s s e s In Fu s e d , Mo s a i c , Pa i n t i n g , An d Sta ine d G la ss.

Gift Shop shop Gift Mostclasses classes 22hours Most hours Ages 77 and Ages andupup Open Family Studio Memberships Fun! GlassArts ArtsCollective, Collective,we wemake makemagic magic AtAtGlass withour ourfavorite favoritematerial: material:GLASS. GLASS.We Wecut cut with it, shape it, melt it, glue it, solder it, paint it, it, shape it, melt it, glue it, solder it, paint slump it, and above all, LOVE IT! Glass is it,aslump it, and above all, LOVE IT! Glass friendly material – everyone can learn to isuse a friendly material – everyone can learn it to create beautiful decorative and tofunctional use it to create and functional works of works beautiful of art. Sodecorative join us for the art. So join us for the magicOur making.

Our classes and magic making. classes and workshops in fused fused glass, glass, mosaic mosaic and stained glass workshops in are Whatever open to all.

Whatever yourbeginner level, from are open to all. your level, from to beginner to advanced, fullyand equipped advanced, our fully equipped glassour studio enthuglass studio and enthusiastic instructors siastic instructors welcome you to explore and play. welcome you to explore and play.

31139 Via Colinas, #201 Westlake Village, CA 91362 818-318-1462 CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

49

LOCALS ONLY

P R O U D LY S E R V I N G T H E C O N E J O VA L L E Y FOR 10 YEARS

MARCH 16, 2021, MARKED CONEJO HEARING CENTER’S 10-YEAR ANNIVERSARY. It has been a difficult past year due to the pandemic, but I am happy to say we are still here, we never closed any days and we continue to provide service daily to our new and existing patients!

I would like to tell you a little bit about our story. I have been a licensed audiologist for over 20 years and I have worked in a variety of settings, ranging from a nonprofit speech and hearing center, a private practice, a hearing aid manufacturer and a corporate-owned hearing practice. I learned from each experience, but I have always had the dream of starting my own private practice to deliver the highest level of standard of care in testing for hearing disorders and providing the best available treatment options for the hearing impaired.

Before opening Conejo Hearing Center I worked locally for a corporate-owned hearing store. The frustration I felt was not being able to choose the products and services and offer pricing structures that I wanted to be available to my patients. This was in the best interest of

ARTICLE CHRISTINE E. WILSON, M.S., CCC-A

the patient in that a variety and always state-of-the-art technology was

50

available to them. That is not always the case when patients are treated for hearing loss at big box and retail stores. Solutions for hearing loss are not one-size-fits-all and patients should not be limited by the selection of services and should have a licensed professional audiologist to guide them in making the best decision for their particular needs.

When we opened, I was the only audiologist and provider, and now we have added Dr. Linda Kissane and Dr. Raye Ann Clayton as well. Both have over 20 years of experience in audiology with children and adults. Dr. Clayton has been taking time off for her children during this pandemic. Michelle is at the front desk and has been here since day one! The patients always ask for her if she is off that day. Ann has been the office manager for almost 6 years and can Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

answer so many questions regarding appointments and hearing aid technology. Peter is our lab tech and patient liaison for all our hearing aid repairs and fittings, and Mary is our workers’ comp specialist.

Our team is dedicated to providing a concierge and very personalized service to our patients. Most of us live in the Conejo Valley and we are proud to be part of this community. We are open 5 days a week from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. We love being a part of this beautiful community and providing the best hearing health care possible.

For more information, call 818.991.3800 or visit ConejoHearingCenter.com.

Christine Wilson has been a licensed audiologist since 1999 and holds a B.S. in Business Administration, an M.S. in Communication Disorders and Sciences (Audiology) and a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology (CCC-A) from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology and owner of Conejo Hearing Center, located at 5655 Lindero Canyon Road, Suite 506 in Westlake Village.

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

51

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RENOVATE & REFINE

EXPRESS YOUR UNIQUE STYLE WITH THE BEAUTIFUL PAINTING CO. WHEN STEPHANIE DIANNE KORDAN STARTED THE BEAUTIFUL PAINTING CO. after the pandemic hit in March 2020, she wanted to re-launch her former decorative painting business because she was burned out by her massage therapy job.

“When lockdown forced me to stop due to safety concerns, I went back to painting interiors,” Kordan remembers.

By April, she landed a big project in Santa Barbara and spent the summer painting the interior of a twostory house.

“While my client quarantined in her second home, I rolled a fresh coat of paint in every room with her favorite color: Bennington Gray,” Kordan recalls. “I also painted custom accent walls in several rooms with a patterned roller which gave a birch bark texture. My client loved the final results.”

Since starting her business in the Conejo Valley— which accepts projects in Santa Barbara, Montecito, Ventura and Oxnard—Kordan has earned a stellar reputation for collaborating with clients to bring their vision to reality. For instance, one of her most recent clients was a mom who surprised her daughter with a bedroom makeover for her 16th birthday.

“Initially, she asked for a charcoal gray accent wall and light gray on other walls,” Kordan says. “I suggested a faux stone treatment, and my client loved the idea. On her daughter's birthday, she texted the bedroom makeover video reveal to show her daughter's enthusiastic response.”

54

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

PAINTING ARTICLE ALICIA DOYLE | PHOTOGRAPHY

JORDAN ZOBRIST PHOTOGRAPHY

Today, some of the most popular offerings at The Beautiful

Painting Co. are Venetian plaster wall finishes.

“Plaster is magic—there's a reason why walls in Italy are beauti-

ful,” says Kordan, adding that faux wood on entry and garage doors are also popular.

Looking back on the path that led to her current vocation, Kordan remembers taking art classes in New York City during the summer of her 13th birthday. Although the age requirement was 18, she was accepted, “and it worked out because I painted as well as the adults.”

Her first mural was for a friend who wanted to transform the living room of his 1930’s Spanish-style home in Silverlake. The finished product was an idyllic landscape, including the ceiling with clouds and birds.

Then, in her mid-20s, she moved from Los Angeles to Santa Fe, where she loved the Santa Fe art scene, “but decided to move to New Orleans.” A short time later, “I was established as a decorative painter and flourished as an artist.”

Eventually, Napoleon was sold through an antique dealer in the French Quarter to a local hotel.

One of her fondest projects in New Orleans was a reproduction

“My client made a move to Colorado and couldn't take it

she did of a painting by Jacques-Louis David's Napoleon. The copy

with him—he sent an email expressing regret about selling

was commissioned by a client back in 1998 who wanted a large

the painting,” she remembers.

replica of Napoleon for his foyer entrance.

Years later, Kordan received a Facebook message from

“It took three months to complete,” says Kordan, who delivered

a hotel renovator in New Orleans who found the Napoleon

the finished painting during Mardi Gras, navigating parade routes

painting with her signature. However, when she emailed her

with Napoleon in the back of a truck. “My client framed the piece in

client to tell him the news, “the message bounced.”

ornate gold and hung it in his foyer.”

Most recently, she reconnected with her former client through LinkedIn, and told him the Napoleon painting was found in a warehouse. He asked for the renovator's number to repurchase the painting, and a week later, three strangers showed up at his doorstep late at night.

“They insisted he stole the Napoleon painting, claiming to be the rightful owners,” Kordan says. “My client was startled—how did they find his address in Colorado? The incident was reported to the police. Needless to say, he didn't want to repurchase Napoleon after all the trouble.” In the end, “that Napoleon painting became a Big Lebowski-like mystery… that client decided to commission a new painting.”

Above all, Kordan’s goal is to bring the elegance of antique wall treatments and fine art to all of her projects.

“I'm passionate about creating unique interior atmospheres for my clients to express their own unique style,” emphasizes the mother of three, who lives in Thousand Oaks. “Whether it's a boutique café in Santa Barbara, a wine-tasting room or a private residence, my approach is to create art out of an interior that is one-of-a-kind magical.”

For more information, or to book a decorative painting project, visit TheBeautifulPainting.co.

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

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Illuminate Who You Are &Who You Can Be! B REAK FR E E FR OM YOU R PA ST A N D STAR T LIV IN G N OW !

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Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

Brittney Henderson, LMFT Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist #104401

L.A. Hair Design Spectacular Private Studio, Suite 4 @ John Of Italy's Studio 7 in Gelson's Shopping Center, Westlake Village 50% OFF AN ENTIRE HAIR SERVICE

THE

BE AU T IF U L PA I N T I NG C O

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I’m Stephanie, artist, painter + founder of The Beautiful Painting Co. I enjoy using plaster and paint to create oneof-a-kind magical interiors.

I believe that creativity and imagination should not be limited when it comes to making your property stand out.

Paint adds depth and beauty to any space with decorative painting. My passion for color dramatically transforms any space, giving it a touch of personality and elegance.

The Beautiful Painting Co. creates one-of-a-kind custom wall treatments using decorative painting techniques like faux wood and marble, Venetian plaster, concrete plaster, limewash, and other artistic applications.

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@hairbyleah.a Ask for Leah, Owner of L.A. Hair Design

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My name is Missy Karjala. I am a certified Massage Therapist located in Newbury Park.

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We also offer pick up and delivery!

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Silver Oaks Cleaners Serving Westlake Village for 30 Years

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DevicePitstop.com/Thousand-Oaks • 805-241-0441 2024 E. Avenida De Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks

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Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021

P ro t ec t y ou r f a m i l y f ro m th e 4 D ’ s Planning for Peace of Mind –

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61

PARTING THOUGHTS

YOU ARE A LIMITED EDITION

ARTICLE KIM PAGANO

I HAVE MET SO MANY OUTSTANDING WOMEN LIVING

spend the most time with will shape your life. Some

THEIR LIVES TO THE FULLEST. Overachievers learning

people hold us back. The lesson is to find friends and

to manifest the life of their dreams. Are you one of those ladies

acquaintances that lift us to our highest level, so we

or has life knocked you down? Are you feeling empty?

are reaching our goals.

If you have been on either side of this feeling, it's com-

So when you are gathering your tribe, make sure they are

pletely normal. Sometimes life just happens to us. This is

ladies who are flexing their minds and lives to be rich and

for all the women who need lifting—first, I say start eating

valuable, so every day is full of not only quantity but quality.

right so you can feel better; second, take a long look at

Be the reason someone feels secure. Be the reason some-

yourself. Have you done your hair or changed your style

one feels seen, heard and supported. Surround yourself with

or makeup? Do you dress for success? Well, all of those

ladies who reflect what you want to be and feel.

things help you be your best you.

Also look at the people who you are surrounding

62

Learn more about Kim Pagano at

yourself with; they say we are the average of the five

KimPaganoShow.com or email

people we spend the most time with. The people you

her at kim@kpshow.org to join her tribe.

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | May 2021