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F O O D + B E V E R AG E

WIN E & CH O CO L ATE A R T S + C U LTU R E

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Rosemary can help you strategize to help you get the highest price. Rosemary will advise 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 with quality buyers from across the globe.

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

Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2022 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

WESTLAKE ESTATE IN THE BLUFFS NEIGHBORHOOD OF SOUTHSHORE HILLS 4 BEDROOMS ■ POOL ■ SPA ■ REMODELED KITCHEN ■ VIEWS ■ 2/3 ACRE LOT 2018 Glastonbury Rd | 4 beds | 3 baths | Westlake Village | $1,799,000 | 2018Glastonbury.com Exquisitely crafted and exceptionally private, this commanding estate, located in the Bluffs of Southshore Hills, backs to miles of open space. End of cul-de-sac home nestled on majestic large 2/3 acre lot with exquisite private huge backyard complete with pool for doing laps, spa and views. 4 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, open floor plan and stylish upgrades, a perfect setting for relaxing & entertaining.Living room offers cathedral ceilings, fireplace, engineered plank flooring, and newly installed windows for an abundance of light. Brand new finely appointed and newly remodeled chef’s kitchen brings a modern aesthetic with custom cabinetry, built-in SubZero refrigerator, stainless luxury appliances including Bosch double oven, quartz countertops with Italian subway tile backsplash, pendant lighting and center island with eating area. Open concept family room has fireplace with walkout to your private backyard that’s tranquil and inviting. Downstairs bedroom & bath perfect for visiting guests. Newly painted in/out. Primary bedroom suite with fireplace and master bathroom with dual sink vanity, large soaking tub, glass enclosed shower, and large walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms nicely sized share another full bath upstairs. Downstairs large bedroom, full bathroom and Indoor laundry room complete the downstairs floorplan. Solar system for economical utility bills. Enjoy gatherings in the secluded backyard, perfect for outdoor entertaining with beautiful hardscape, pool large enough for laps, mature trees and drought tolerant landscaping throughout. Easy access to the beautiful Westlake Village picturesque lake, Southshore Hills neighborhood park, hiking trails, freeways & restaurants. Award winning Conejo Valley Schools! 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.Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2022 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

805.479.7653 | rosemaryallison@aol.com | www.callrosemary.com |

CalRE #00545184

STUNNING SANTA ROSA VALLEY 4 BEDROOM + OFFICE ONE STORY ESTATE HOME WITH VIEWS 1.36 ACRES 2734 Vista Arroyo

Location, location! Spectacular white picket gated fenced entry with spectacular winding walkways, riverbeds, bridge and water features lead you to this stunning single story Bridlewood Windemere floorplan in Santa Rosa Valley! Leaded double glass door entry open to light filled rooms, high ceilings, and designer finishes. Gourmet remodeled kitchen with white cabinets and granite counters has a large island and is open to the large family room where you will do hours of entertaining. Enter this spacious and inviting home with four bedrooms plus office, custom shutters and three full baths, Enter the large master suite through double doors with vaulted ceilings and sitting area. The master bath is highlighted by a large spa tub, dual sinks, & separate updated tiled shower. Three other bedrooms are nicely sized with updated bathroom, three car attached garage, and two storage sheds. The inside space flows effortlessly to the outside where you will fall in love with this huge wonderland useable and fence enclosed lot. Your own private resort awaits you where you can dine al fresco on the outstretched covered patio or find your calm in the above ground spa, enjoying the views of the lush green turf, surrounding hills and raised gardening beds. Potential RV access amid a community that includes equestrian trails, arena and picnic area. Newer roof and covered patio. Indoor laundry room with sink. This is truly an exceptional property you simply must see to believe. Single story homes with features and views like this do not come around often so seize the day and live where you dreamed of living!

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.Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2022 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

Beautiful equestrian property located on 1.13 acres graced with giant redwood and corral trees located at the end of a cul-de-sac. This two-story dream equestrian estate home, reminiscent of a French Country estate, features an upgraded kitchen which includes a center island and breakfast bar. Large family room off kitchen with fireplace, exposed beam ceilings and wet bar. Step down living room features vaulted ceiling and fireplace. Formal dining room with views of the garden and arena. Downstairs guest bedroom and full bath. Indoor laundry room. Three car garage. Beautiful wood staircase leads to a huge master bedroom with exposed beam ceiling, fireplace, his and her walk-in closets, large master bathroom with separate toilet and shower. Bedroom French doors open to balcony with gorgeous view of property. Three bedrooms and two baths upstairs. Shaded landscaped lawn and fruit trees. Serene fenced-in vegetable garden. Leaf Filter gutter protection system. Equestrian facilities include 6 stall barn and enclosed tack and feed room. Stalls and barn aisle fully matted. Separate foaling stall. Round pen. Wash rack. Riding arena (approx. 140’ x 90’), felt-sand mix and irrigation. Arena graded for quick drainage. Shed at back of barn for additional storage. Driveway access to back of barn for ease of vet, hay deliveries, etc. Easy pull through trailer parking. Access to miles and miles of riding trails directly from the property. 5-minute drive to Santa Rosa Equestrian Park in Hill Canyon and many more miles of trails. Great location with quick access to 23/118 Freeway, 101 freeway and the Metrolink Station in Moorpark. Award winning Santa Rosa Technology Magnet school district. Reduced to $1,699,000

LIFESTYLE LETTER

We Love it Here!

February 2023 PUBLISHER S

Ben Malkin | Ben.Malkin@citylifestyle.com Robin Chesler | Robin.Chesler@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Yes, we do! I have lived all over the country—born and raised in Philadelphia; 4 years of college at Penn State in Happy Valley; Sacramento, Biloxi, Boston, Mission Viejo, Dallas, Princeton, Albuquerque (I still cannot spell it right the first time), Oxnard and finally, for the past 18 years, Westlake Village in the Conejo Valley. Robin is kind of a stick in the mud (she will not like that I said that) having lived only in North Hollywood, Encino and now 18 years together with me here in the wonderful Conejo Valley. When we came together in 2004, we both knew where we wanted to live and so we made it happen. We haven’t had a single doubt ever since. Since February is a month often given over to “Love,” I thought I would send a loving Valentine to our community. Why do we love it, you may ask? First there is the obvious: It is a beautiful place to live. Most suburban communities are more often than not part of a suburban sprawl with tract homes all blending together. The Conejo Valley has somehow retained its natural beauty, with plenty of open space, relatively clean air and relatively low density. I have lost count of the times that either Robin or I have spontaneously remarked, “Isn’t this a beautiful place to live?!” However, the best reason to “Love it Here” are the people. Our community has held together during a pandemic, a terrible fire and a senseless act of mass violence. We may not all agree on any number of issues, but while we may agree to disagree, we all remain part of the common good. During some unstable economic times our nonprofits that support health, children and the arts and that fight hunger and provide shelter have fought through all of the challenges. There is a passion here to give back. It’s the Conejo Valley. It’s our home and we love it.

Tracy Marcynzsyn Tracy.Marcynzsyn@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Sue Baldani, Tracy Marcynzsyn, Kim Pagano, Jodai Saremi CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Judi Bumstead, Tracie Karasik, Clint Weisman, Clint Weisman Studio

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER Eva Tucker

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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 area’s 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

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

inside the issue The Local Love Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

18 Lovin’ the Conejo Valley

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Must See

Local’s Choice

Open House

Hometown Hero

Healthy Lifestyle

Giving Back

Home Update

Culinary Creations

Inspired By

Local Places & Spaces

22 Wine & Chocolate Decadence for Today & Everyday

36 Aesthetically Yours Skin Care to Love

40 Conejo Concussion Institute Protecting Student Athletes

A RTS + C U LT U R E FO O D + B EV ER AG E

FI NA NC E + LEGA L SE RV IC E S A RTS + C U LTU R E HEA LT H + W E L L N E SS

HEA LT H + WELLN E SS HO ME + DES I GN FO O D + B E V E R AG E

A RTS + C U LT U R E

March 4, 2023  6:00 pm - 10:30 pm Ronald Reagan Presidential Library

805.479.7653 | rosemaryallison@aol.com | www.callrosemary.com | CalRE #00545184 ©2023 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

7 5

1: The organization donated $2 MILLION DOLLARS! 3: Montecito Bank & Trust kicked off the 20th Anniversary of Community Dividends. 6: (L-R): Janet Garufis, Maggie Sanchez and Anne Towbes 7: It was an exciting event shared with our friends in the community. Photography by Clint Weisman, Clint Weisman Studio

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @conejovalleylifestylemagazine

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 3

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

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CSUCI Senior in DC CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) Chicana/o Studies major Lyzette Cornejo served as a Panetta Institute Congressional Intern in Washington, DC. “I helped in drafting a bill!” Cornejo said. “My opinion mattered.” Born and raised in Santa Paula, Cornejo is the first in her family to attend college, and the Panetta Scholarship she won has gone a long way toward her quest to light the way for other students like her. CSUCI.edu

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Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

Sea Legacy on Stage National Geographic’s Adventurer of the Year in 2018, Cristina Mittermeier comes to the Bank of America Performing Arts Center on Feb. 7, as part of the Distinguished Speaker Series. The co-founder of the nonprofit Sea Legacy, formed to protect and create healthy and abundant oceans through visual storytelling, Cristina is an influential female photographer who began her career as a Marine Biologist. BAPACThousandOaks.com

9th Annual Nun Run The 9th Annual Nun Run 5K, 1-Mile and Community Service Fair takes place Feb. 4, at La Reina High School & Middle School in Thousand Oaks. The proceeds benefit local and global outreach including the homeless, immigrants, human trafficking survivors and recipients of health care and eldercare services. Nun.Run

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C ON E J OVA L L E Y

Lovin’ the Conejo Valley Locals’ picks for area favorites

ARTICLE BY TRACY MARCYNZSYN

From stunning natural panoramas to exquisite eateries, unique shops and cultural venues, Conejo Valley offers a plethora of places to fill our hearts (and bellies!). We appreciate these special gems that make our community a wonderful place to live, laugh and love.

SYCAMORE TO THE SEA TRAIL, NEWBURY PARK

Some of our favorite family memories were made while hiking in the Rancho Sierra Vista/Satwiwa area. You can hike or bike your way through the mountains to the ocean on the 8.25-mile well-maintained and mostly flat trail from the Wendy and Potrero Road trailheads to Sycamore Canyon Campground. Right across the street from the campground is Sycamore Cove Beach, where you can picnic, relax and watch the sunset. NPS.gov

ILENE’S BOUTIQUE, WESTLAKE VILLAGE

From jewelry, purses, pajamas and hats to formal bling, tie dye dresses, t-shirts, jeans, blazers and everything in between, Ilene’s Boutique offers a safe space for women to shop and curate a wardrobe full of favorite, feel-good pieces culled from world-class designers. “She knows my style more than I know my style,” says Robin Chesler, CVL publisher and a regular at Ilene’s. “You walk in, and she makes you feel like you’re the only one in the store, like you’re a queen for the day!” 805.373.6633

M UST SE E | A RTS + CU LTURE

CHOCOLATINE FRENCH CAFÉ, THOUSAND OAKS

Bringing a slice of European culture to the Conejo Valley, Chocolatine serves up French fare—try the Croque Monsieur or Quiche of the Day—and delectable desserts in a comfortable, hometown café. ChocolatineFrenchCafe.com | 805.557.0561

BOTTLE & PINT, NEWBURY PARK

Newbury Park’s very own “Cheers,” Bottle & Pint is a popular local taproom and bottle shop offering craft beers for the connoisseur. Twenty revolving taps ensure a fresh pour of your favorite ale or a new discovery! 805.480.9500

LITTLE FOOT CONSTRUCTION, INC., THOUSAND OAKS

This local family owned company/general contractor specializes in office, warehouse, industrial, retail and restaurant tenant improvements and market-ready projects. “We have so much fun meeting new clients and making their business visions come true,” says Kim Pagano, who started LFC with her husband more than 30 years ago. “Our team would love the opportunity to show you what LFC is capable of.” 805.491.2759 CONTINUED > FEB R UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C ON E J OVA L L E Y

SAGE SPIRITS, THOUSAND OAKS

Pyrite, Aquamarine, Selenite, Lepidolite, Peridot, Labradorite and Kunzite are just a few of the ethically sourced crystals and stones at Sage Spirits. Step inside to find your perfect stone, set mindful intentions and practice self-care. SageSpiritsStore.com | 805.232.3301

POOKIE’S THAI, WESTLAKE VILLAGE “Food is great and Pookie is the best—always takes the time to make us feel welcome,” says Thousand Oaks resident Brenda Herron, who names Pookie’s of Westlake Village a favorite go-to restaurant for her and husband, Dan. Fusing authentic Thai culinary traditions with a modern interpretation, Pookie’s is open weekdays for lunch and 7 days a week for dinner. PookieThai.com | 805.381.0094

BANK OF AMERICA PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, THOUSAND OAKS

Locals cherish this community gem, one of the largest performing arts centers between Los Angeles and San Francisco. Hosting more than 400 annual performances, from Broadway musicals and popular entertainers to award-winning children’s program, ballet, classical symphonic performances and more, BAPAC holds a special place in the hearts of theater-loving locals. BAPACThousandOaks.com | 805.449.2787

M UST SE E | A RTS + CU LTURE

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CHOCOLATE and WINE February brings celebrations of love which frequently include the timeless treasure of wine and chocolate. Whether it’s over romantic dinners for two or between female friends at “Galentine’s” parties, wine and chocolate will be making lots of appearances this month. Use this as your guide to creating an exquisite experience for your loved ones this month. These aphrodisiacs have a lot of similarities to each other. For one, they both contain flavanols (antioxidants) and polyphenols (compounds found in plant-based food) that are good for you and have anti-inflammatory properties. But because these characteristics affect flavor, it’s somewhat challenging to pair wine and chocolate together. The more polyphenols, the more pronounced the bitter taste. For example, if you sip a delicious dry red wine alongside a hunk of dark chocolate, the wine will start to taste bitter and sour. The taste imbalance is coming from the heightened levels of flavanols (different types of tannin) found in both chocolate and wine that end up clashing against each other on your tongue. While it might sound counterintuitive, a good rule of thumb is to pair a wine that is “sweeter” than the chocolate itself. “Sweet” doesn’t refer to dessert wines alone. In the wine world, the term “sweet” is often used to denote ripe, fruit-forward flavors in a wine. These characteristics provide a nice balance to the bitter flavors of cocoa. Both wine and chocolate can have intense, dry flavors. In order to find the right balance, it’s best to choose wines that are a little bit softer and juicier than the chocolate you’re pairing it with. Fortunately, we’ve done the footwork to find several wines that partner well with chocolate. Here are our guidelines for matching chocolate with wine and a few of our favorite wine and chocolate pairings. We hope you’ll try them and then get inspired to experiment and create your own.

LOCA L’S CH OICE | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS & TRACY MARCYNZSYN PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSANDRA CASTANEDA CONTINUED > FEB R UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C ON E J OVA L L E Y

T I P 1 : M AT C H S U G A R WITH SUGAR What’s true of relationships is not true of wine and chocolate: opposites do not attract. When it comes to pairing chocolate and wine, you don’t want to strike a balance, you want to match sugar to sugar. Sweeter chocolate like white chocolate does better when consumed with sweeter wines and bitter chocolate like dark chocolate enjoys being paired with dryer wines. Think of it as matching sugar with sugar. Sweet white chocolate pairs well with sweet wines high in residual sugars and bitter darks with dry wines with just a hint of residual sugar. A good rule of thumb is to always pair wines that are equally or slightly more sweet than the chocolate being eaten with it.

T I P 2 : M AT C H I N T E N S I T Y WITH INTENSITY If you pair an incredibly delicately flavored dark chocolate with a full-bodied, heavy red, the intensity of the wine will destroy any of the subtlety that might have been present in the chocolate. The opposite is also true: strong-tasting chocolate will blow a delicate wine out of the water. Keep this rule of thumb in mind: light-flavored chocolates enjoy being paired with light-bodied wines and intensely flavored chocolates prefer being paired with full-bodied wines.

TI P 3: PAI R FL AVORS WITH FL AVORS Wine and chocolate both carry their own intense flavors. If your chocolate contains other ingredients such as nuts, fruit, or caramel, consider how these flavors will play with the wine. This is especially helpful to remember when enjoying truffles with wine. To avoid creating a palate power play between the two, do your best to match fruity or floral chocolates with fruity wines like Moscato or White Zinfandel. Enjoy chocolate-covered nuts alongside a nutty wine like a Madeira or Marsala. Chocolate studded with dried cranberries might pair well with a fruit-forward red with berry undertones.

LOCA L’S CH OICE | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

a note

ON SERVING WINE AND C H O C O L AT E F L I G H T S : Just as you would with any other tasting, it’s best to start with light chocolates and wines, increasing the intensity as you go along. Start with white chocolates and light wines and save the richest, dark chocolates and wines for last. By doing this, you will keep your palate from starting out too strong and missing out on the subtle sensations found in more delicate chocolate and wine selections.

SHOP LOCAL

THE BEST LOCAL SOURCES FOR ALL YOUR WINE AND CHOCOLATE NEEDS The month of love and Valentines makes the perfect time to partake in wine and chocolate tasting. Some local treasures to get you started are sure to strike a sweet spot.

N A B U W I N E S W I N E R Y & TA S T I N G R O O M

Enjoy music, comedy and award-winning wines at NABU Wines, voted 2022 Best Of The Southland Los Angeles Times, Best Wine Tasting, Best Winery by Los Angeles Daily News 2022 Readers Choice Awards, and Best Winery by 2022 Readers Choice Awards Ventura County Star. 2649 Townsgate Road, Westlake Village | 805.778.1100 NabuWines.com

C H O C O L AT S D U C A L I B R E S S A N

Renowned for their delectable and unique selections of world-class chocolates—Cardamom (dark chocolate and cardamom ganache enrobed in dark chocolate, sprinkled with Tahitian vanilla sea salt), Sichuan pepper/ orange (dark chocolate ganache with orange zest and spiced with Sichuan pepper, covered with dark chocolate, rolled in dried orange peel) and French Bisous (dark and milk chocolate ganache flavored with tangerine liquor, covered with white chocolate)—Chocolats Du Calibressan is a trip worth taking.

D I A N E K R O N C H O C O L AT I E R

From her famous K truffles (three textures of dark chocolate with whipped centers) and Addictive K bears (crunchy teddy bear shapes, covered in milk, dark and white chocolate), Diane Kron exceeds expectations. 3835 Cross Creek Road, Malibu | 310.248.2626 DianeKron.com

4193 Carpinteria Ave #4, Carpinteria | 805.684.6900 ChocoCaliBressan.com

THE BARN CIELO FARMS, MALIBU

French chocolate and mouthwatering, beautiful specialty truffles top the menu at this authentic French café.

Sample over 20 exclusive Woodstock and Estate wines, including cabernet sauvignon, syrah, merlot, viognier, petite syrah and malbec varietals. Breathtaking views and enchanting sunsets enhance the experience.

2955 E Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks | 805.557.0561 ChocolatineFrenchCafe.com

31424 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu WoodstockMalibu.com/the-barn-tasting-room/

C H O C O L AT I N E F R E N C H C A F É

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C ON E J OVA L L E Y

Adept Legal Counsel:

Advocates in Life & Business ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI

O PE N H OU SE | FIN AN CE + LE GAL S E RVI CE S

When Brian Heit was 18, he was involved in a very serious automobile accident caused by a drunk driver. “I was really grateful to have counsel by my side to walk me through that process,” he says. “To know that my attorney was fighting for me made me want to fight for others.” While in law school, Brian was on the trial team at the Securities and Exchange Commission in Miami. “This in part is where I started my corporate background and my litigation skills,” he says. “I also worked at a publicly traded utilities company in Miami, and then after law school, I went on to become a financial broker for Aon.” In 2015, Brian, along with his wife, Brenna, another attorney, founded Adept Legal Counsel P.C., in Westlake Village. “We have four practice areas and they're sometimes intertwined, but we represent businesses in various industries with corporate counsel and business litigation,” says Brian. “We also do a lot of estate planning for our business clients, and we focus on employment law and personal injury as well.” Having his own firm allows him to practice the law his way—combining legal knowledge and empathy. “We really try to find the human side of it, so we're both relationship and results focused,” he says. “I believe clients benefit when you address both of those aspects.” Good attorneys, says Brian, take the time to thoroughly learn the law, but great attorneys also take the time to figure out their clients and learn how to tell their stories more persuasively and more effectively than the clients can themselves. “That's really the mark of the great attorney— when the client looks at you and says, ‘Wow! You put my story together better than I could ever have.’” He adds, “When you're looking for someone to represent you in front of a court, you want someone who takes the time to truly understand you in your situation holistically, because a lot of things outside of just the facts of the case may end up being relevant.”

While Brian and his team are zealous advocates, they are also true counselors at law. After all, when people consult an attorney, it’s usually because they’re in the midst of a stressful situation. “A lot of that counseling comes back to the emotional aspect of law and the biggest thing is to be empathetic with your client's situation,” he says. “They're reaching out to an almost stranger and it requires a lot of trust to maintain that relationship.” Even prior to law school, Brian gained a lot of experience in providing empathy and understanding. “While I was in college at San Francisco State University, I also worked full-time at an organization called Edgewood Center for Children and Families,” he says. “It was founded in 1851 by nuns as San Francisco Orphanage Asylum. The kids who came through its system were suffering severely from various types of trauma, neglect and abuse. It’s a wonderful organization that provided me with a tremendous amount of training to deal with children who had been through so much in order to allow them to feel safe and heard.” In order for his clients to be heard, Brian ensures they have easy access to their lawyers. “Instead of responding to clients within 24 hours, the rule that I try to hold for my team is to respond within 24 minutes,” he says. “We leverage technology and we've invested significantly into a client portal so clients can communicate directly with their team.” In addition to working hard for his clients, Brian also loves spending time with his family. He and Brenna have two daughters, Isla, who is 3 years old, and Addison, who is 2. They also have a dog named Frances who was rescued from a meat market in Korea. “She’s wonderful and a great addition to our family,” says Brian. To find out more about Brian and how Adept Legal Counsel P.C. can assist with your legal needs, go to AdeptCounsel.co.

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C ON E J OVA L L E Y

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ARTICLE BY ALICIA DOYLE

AESTHETICALLY YOURS ENHANCES NATURAL BEAUTY

At Aesthetically Yours, Co-owners Dr. M. Asif Taqi and Katherine Campbell lead a team of experts who take pride in offering high quality nonsurgical services to the residents of Thousand Oaks, Westlake, Woodland Hills, Ventura and surrounding Los Angeles areas. “Our ultimate goal is not to change our clients, but instead enhance their true beauty and make them feel comfortable in their own skin,” says Dr. Taqi, a practicing physician for 15 years with many years of experience in injecting neurotoxins and performing minimally invasive procedures. “We strive to make our patients feel heard about what their skin concerns/insecurities are rather than being sold a product,” Dr. Taqi emphasizes. “We are passionate about this field and stand by the products and services that we offer.” These services include injectable neuromodulators to help with wrinkles and fine lines, dermal fillers to enhance contour or add volume and Kybella to reduce unwanted fat. Additional offerings include Intense Pulse Light to help with sunspots, age spots, uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, rosacea and broken capillaries, as well as acne laser resurfacing to help with texture, acne scarring, fine lines and crepey skin. There’s also Yag laser for vascular lesions and skin brightening; Radio Frequency Microneedling

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | HE ALTH + W E LLNE S S

to help wrinkles, loose or crepy skin; and scar revision including C-section and stretch marks. Aesthetically Yours also provides laser hair removal that is suitable for even darker skin tones, and vitamin infusions that can boost memory, energy, skin health, immune system and recovery process. “We can also create a customized infusion tailored to our patient’s specific needs and goals,” Dr. Taqi says. What does Aesthetically Yours offer that cannot be found elsewhere? “A deep desire and dedication to connect with each and every one of our patients and learn their individual needs,” says Angelika Desimone, nurse practitioner, adding that all their laser and devices are brand new, offering patients the state-of-the-art and latest technology. “All our treatments are focused on minimal downtime while providing lasting results,” emphasizes Desimone, a certified injector and laser specialist. “Our injectors are experienced and offer a wide variety of treatments including correction and dissolving previously misplaced or over-injected dermal fillers.” All treatments are complimentary to each other, Desimone notes. “For example, a patient may benefit from a Botox and filler combination after laser resurfacing to get rid of deep wrinkles followed by an infusion of our beauty boost.” Aesthetically Yours, as the name suggests, is about “YOU,” emphasizes Campbell, co-owner and chief operating officer. “Our team distinguishes in enhancing your own beauty rather than changing it,” Campbell says. “We believe everyone is gifted with their own unique features and our goal is to preserve those features. We help our patients in determining their goals and make sure they are safely achieved. We spend time to connect with our patients and make sure they feel comfortable with their individualized treatment plan.” Aesthetically Yours came about from Campbell’s personal passion for skin care and aesthetics.

BEFORE

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“I wanted to create a space where patients felt they were listened to and felt hopeful in finding treatment that would make them feel like themselves again,” explains Campbell, noting that she has personally struggled with skin conditions for years, and knows firsthand how it can impact self-confidence and overall self-esteem. “In the past I had been to med spas where I felt intimidated by the overall experience,” Campbell recalls. “At times I felt rushed and at others I felt I was just told what do rather than being a part of the treatment plan.” Campbell wanted to create a place where patients were comfortable sharing their insecurities without judgment and felt they had gained some power back. “Our goal at Aesthetically Yours is not to tell the patients what they need, but instead involve them in creating a treatment plan to ensure that their concerns are addressed and treated appropriately,” Campbell says. “With that mindset, we give the patients the opportunity to feel not only involved— but most importantly to feel heard—which ultimately will give them the results they are hoping to achieve.” Campbell added that her goal for the company is not to change a patient’s appearance, “but instead enhance their natural looks—making them feel more beautiful in their skin.” Visit Aesthetically Yours Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday by appointment. For more information, visit aesyours. com, or call 818.964.0921. FEB R UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C ON E J OVA L L E Y

e are a generational fishing family. The Pacific Ocean is where we harvest the bounty of our local waters and offer it to our local community. My husband and my son work the deck every day, landing Halibut, White Sea Bass, and many other species. Sharing this fresh, healthy resource brings our family so much joy!

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Injuries on the Field: Conejo Concussion Institute Keeps Watch on Student Athlete Safety

ARTICLE BY JODAI SAREMI

About a third of the estimated 2,100 student athletes in the Conejo Valley experience some type of injury requiring medical intervention. Data collected by certified athletic trainers (ATC) in a report to the CDC show that these athletes require medical intervention resulting in missed playing time. According to Scott Blatt, DC, ATC, head athletic trainer at Westlake High School since 1995, having athletic trainers on the fields to assist coaches in assessing injuries creates a safer environment for the students. By building trust with Westlake High School, Blatt nurtured a solid relationship with the athletic departments at all three high schools. In 2005 he established a presence at Thousand Oaks and Newbury Park high schools. As a trained EMT, chiropractor and athletic trainer, with

extensive experience on pro volleyball, surfing and football medical teams, he showed up to practices and competitive events, at first alone, and then with his staff, to provide free brain function assessments pre-season to all athletes, in addition to assisting the coaches with injuries sustained during practices and competitions. They invested time educating coaches on everything from heat injuries to asthma and, of course, concussions. In 2014 Dr. Blatt created the Conejo Concussion Institute (CCI), a nonprofit organization, with the goal of providing brain function evaluations and baseline screenings for districtwide participants in youth and high school sports programs, along with the most current information on research in sports-related brain injuries. With the

“Athletic trainers take the burden of medical assessment out of the hands of a coach and give it to a trained individual who is the child’s advocate.” —Scott Blatt, DC, ATC

G IV IN G BAC K | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

organizational support of his colleagues, Drs. Megan and Pat Hardin, and a Board of Directors composed of renowned physicians, Dr. Ian Armstrong, Dr. Michael Vercillo and Dr. Pierre Durand, CCI continues to focus on educating coaches and parents about the importance of injury prevention and injury assessment. Until recently, Blatt and his staff at Body Logic Sports Therapy attended the three Conejo Valley high schools’ sport practices and competitions voluntarily. “My office staff has provided this community service as a team. This year the Conejo Unified School District agreed to allow CCI to hire a full-time athletic trainer for every practice and sporting event year-round.” But they don’t have enough to pay them a competitive salary and it’s no longer sustainable for Blatt to provide services for free. He is now searching for help to continue the program. You may ask why the state or local school districts do not cover the costs for athletic trainers—school budgets are stretched thin, with more than 80% dedicated to administrative, classified (office workers, bus drivers, janitors) and certificated (credentialed teachers) staff, and the rest going toward supplies, transportation and utilities. According to the CVUSD School Board, “88% of district revenue comes from the state and local taxes… with localities generally maintaining more discretion over… extracurricular activities.” Therefore, athletics are primarily financed through donations and contributions of families and community partners.

There are currently four ATCs working in the local high schools, thanks to some creative financing. Conejo Unified School District and Los Robles Hospital each contributed $30,000 toward their salaries, along with liability insurance, taxes and supplies; but the budget is $300,000. Blatt believes that a full-time, athletic trainer on the sidelines of youth sports ensures consistency in supervision and a depth of knowledge. “Athletic trainers take the burden of medical assessment out of the hands of a coach and give it to a trained individual who is the child’s advocate.” The ATC makes decisions based on a fieldside physical evaluation and comparison to the baseline information collected pre-season. “Having the ability to get to know our kids (by being at every practice) and make real-time decisions for our youth based on knowledge of that child and their family is at the heart of why I so strongly believe a full-time ATC at each school is so valuable,” says Blatt. CCI’s goals include increasing awareness and undertaking research on the impact of concussions in youth sports to better identify, diagnose and prevent injuries in future generations. CCI has developed a partnership with the UCLA BrainSPORT program to share information and data. All three Conejo Valley high schools’ principals, athletic directors and coaches support CCI’s efforts and urgently need community backing. Learn more or contribute to CCI and support student athletes at ConejoConcussionInstitute.com.

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ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSANDRA CASTANEDA

9 WAYS T O O R G A N I Z E A N D I N J E C T S T Y L E I N T O YO U R S PAC E

ELEVATE YOUR CLOSET

Every woman dreams of an organized and beautiful closet space, but it often comes last on the list of places that get their time and attention. Follow our nine tips for transforming and elevating your closet as you Spring clean and declutter for a more peaceful, inspired space you absolutely love.

H OM E U P DAT E | HOM E + DE S I GN

A sneak peek inside the closet of active mom and entrepreneur Keri Tarantino of Leawood, KS reveals a dressing room that rivals celebrity homes in Beverly Hills. But it didn’t come easily. Keri painstakingly planned, designed and curated the space with care. When we first stepped inside, we gasped as our eyes beheld the glory. No detail went unnoticed in this dreamy dressing room. Here are some guiding principles that can be drawn from her exquisite taste and vision. How you organize your closet will of course differ based on the size of your space, the size of your wardrobe, and the kind of life you lead. But applying the guidelines Keri used in her space will result in a much more organized and aesthetically pleasing space.

Reserve the front and middle of the closet for clothes worn most often. For someone who gets dressed for work each morning at 6 a.m., work clothes should be at the front of the closet. Store lesser-worn items like formal wear and out-of-season clothes toward the back and on the upper shelves. The large mirror and counter with chair provides the perfect spot to select jewelry and finalize finishing outfit touches. While every closet is different, the key here is everything has a home.

USE R EAL ESTATE WISELY

ORGA NIZE BY KIND A ND COLOR

Group clothes by kind first and color second. This ensures quick location of that favorite shirt when it’s needed. Bonus - it’s easy on the eye. Group like with like: Gather belts, sweaters, longsleeve shirts, work pants, dresses, button-down shirts, jeans, shorts, etc., and decide the best place to store each item as a group (e.g., hang pants in the closet, fold and stack sweaters in a bureau). Working with groupings will help you figure out how much space you need and the best way to store each type of item.

CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C ON E J OVA L L E Y

NEGATIVE SPACE

Using space efficiently is important, but keep in mind every good design includes some negative space. For instance, consider adding built-ins on the long wall of your closet but keep the short wall open with a mirror.

FACE CLOTHES THE SA ME DIR ECTION

It may seem silly, but when dealing with a small space, little things count. Hanging all clothes the same direction is a no-brainer for continuity in your closet.

The simplest and fastest way to make a BIG difference in your closet organization is to get matching hangers that go beyond the traditional plastic or wire hangers. And for sure ditch any with paper from the dry cleaner! Here’s a few of our favorite elevated hangers:

UPGR ADED HA NGERS 46

H OM E U P DAT E | HOM E + DE S I GN

BAG & SHOE STOR AGE

Alternate the way shoes are facing. This ultimately helps fit more on each row and provide a visually appealing way to display those prized possessions. Everyone understands the frustration of searching for that one clutch when rushing out for the evening. Bags benefit from a space all their own. Get clear container storage for small bags and purses so you can locate and access them easily.

HIDDEN STOR AGE Hidden storage is a game changer in keeping a closet visually clean. Tuck folded clothes behind closed cabinet doors if the space is multipurpose. The floor-to-ceiling built-ins in Keri’s closet contain folded clothes, athleisure and other items she needs as she gets ready each day. Tuck away the least-used items: Use hidden storage and the very top of the closet for outof-season items and stuff only worn a few times a year.

CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C ON E J OVA L L E Y

LIGHTING Lighting is everything in a closet. Gone are the days of dim recessed lighting being sufficient. Consider adding a statement lighting fixture like a chandelier or pendant that provides ample bright lighting to your space, no matter how big or small.

08 M AKE A STATEMENT Why use an armchair when you have room for a sofa? Slide up a stool and colorful area rug to complete the look. If you have excessive wall space, consider a mini gallery wall or a statement wall with wallpaper to polish things off.

H OM E U P DAT E | HOM E + DE S I GN

PRESENTS

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C ON E J OVA L L E Y

ARTICLE KASIM HARDAWAY PHOTOGRAPHY PAUL VERSLUIS

crudite, anyone? Add Fresh Produce and a Pop of Color To Your Table Not to be confused with its not-too-distant cousin, charcuterie, crudité highlights fresh produce—it is a French term that translates to “raw things.” The produce featured in crudité can be sliced or whole, typically assembled on a board or platter, served with complementary dips. It is the perfect way to usher in spring, bringing seasonal goods from farm to table. If you frequently entertain or are in search of new ways to wow your guests, a crudité board can be simple, quick and cost-effective. Think of it as a labor of love--part art, part organization and part self-expression. There are absolutely zero rules for building the ideal crudité board, but these six tips will help you along your way.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

• Vibrant and robust produce will be both visually attractive and appetizing. As you gather the vegetables for your crudité, think of the different preferences your guest may have. Incorporate something crunchy, something mild and something with a bite. All these different qualities will have a synergistic effect for your board. • As you build your board or platter, start with the largest items, and end with the smallest. Working in this order will allow you to completely fill the board, resulting in a lush, bountiful appearance. • Don’t restrict yourself to just vegetables! While the produce should be the star, allow a few supporting roles to join the stage. Crackers for dipping, seeds, olives and nuts for nibbling, herbs for added greenery—allow your imagination to roam free.

• Dips can be overwhelming or underwhelming. Make sure to provide your guests with contrasting options that can provide varying flavor profiles. May I suggest a Creamy Avocado Dip and Beet Tahini Faux Hummus? Continue reading to find the recipes. • To keep the vegetables crisp, fresh and unblemished, refrain from preparing more than two hours prior to serving your guests. While a little lemon water will help preserve most vegetables, crudité shines at its brightest when prepared shortly before enjoying. • When finding the perfect alcohol pairings for your crudité board, it is crucial to select something that will not overpower but enhance the freshness and quality of your vegetables. CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C ON E J OVA L L E Y

the spread Beet-Tahini Faux Hummus Serves 4 - 6

INGREDIENTS • • • • • •

1 pound beets (3-4 medium beets) 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 1/2 cup tahini 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt extra virgin olive oil

DIRECTIONS 1. Peel and chop beets into small cubes. Drizzle with olive oil and season lightly with salt. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place beet cubes on aluminum foil and enclose. Put aluminum foil packet on baking sheet and cook beets until tender. 2. Once tender, remove beets from aluminum foil packet and allow beets to cool. Place beets, tahini, lemon juice and garlic in food processor. Process while slowly adding 1/4 cup olive oil through opening of food processor. Transfer to serving bowl then season generously with salt. Allow to sit covered for at least 30 minutes before eating. 3. Serve with a light drizzle of oil.

the drinks The Pa irin g L ist Wine Pairings for this Crudité Grazing Board are featured from St. James Winery. Founded by the Hofherr family in the Meramec Highlands region of Missouri in 1970, it is celebrating 49 years as a family-owned and operated winery. Located in St. James, it is Missouri’s largest, best-selling and most awarded winery.

Friendship School White, St. James Winery • Aromas of grapefruit and marmalade with fresh, crisp green apple and lemon flavors. A delightful white blend with a touch of sweetness and crisp acid which lingers for a long, satisfying finish. Made with proprietors blend of Midwestern grape varieties.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Vignoles, St. James Winery • Floral and fruity aromas with flavors of marmalade and pineapple with a crisp, clean finish. A lively, easy drinking white wine. Made with estate-grown vignoles grapes.

Creamy Avocado Dip Serves 4-6

INGREDIENTS • • • • •

2 avocados 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt 1 teaspoon onion powder squeeze of lime salt

DIRECTIONS 1. In a medium sized bowl, mash avocado until smooth. 2. Squeeze in juice from lime (to taste) then mix in garlic powder and salt. 3. Place in refrigerator until ready to serve. 4. Set out 30 minutes prior to serving for ideal temperature.

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We provide comprehensive dental care for both adults and children and specialize in: Veneers • Implant Restoration • Same Day Crowns and Cosmetic Smile Makeovers “If I could give more stars I would! What a great office to visit. EVERYONE that works here is personable and just amazing. I feel comfortable coming and I have to say, what a change! I love my smile! Many thanks!” Sean R.

Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation!

(805)495-0187

30200 Agoura Road, Suite 180, Agoura Hills, CA 91301 • www.philipshindlerdds.com

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C ON E J OVA L L E Y

Lovin’ Life I have been on and off my Soul's path all my life, doing what I love and feeling passionate and then getting overwhelmed and distracted by taking too much on in an attempt to please others. I grew up with a selfless, caring mother entrepreneur and a creative entrepreneurial father, so I was taught to put everyone else first, to work hard and that anything is possible. I am grateful for these lessons, and they have served me well… until I found myself constantly anxious and close to burning out. When my mom passed away in 2016, that really rocked my world. At that moment I realized what the most important things in my life were and vowed to prioritize connection to myself, my family and my service to others without losing myself in that mix anymore. My mission is to help as many of you as possible to also remember your unique magnificent, beautiful self and to find your magical message so you can realign with your highest potential and live a life that you LOVE and that truly fulfills the YOU in everything you venture into! Fall in love with Yourself all over again! Tune in to the brighter side of life with Kim Pagano, Saturdays between 7 and 8 a.m. at KVTA.com. Download her podcast, “The Kim Pagano Show” or receive her newsletter by contacting kim@kpshow. org and start your day in a positive way and live on the brighter side of life.

ARTICLE BY KIM PAGANO

I NSP IR E D BY | A RTS + CULTURE

Kim Pagano

The heart of your home is about to get a whole lot happier!

COME SEE A WORLD OF DESIGN POSSIBILIT Y OPEN UP TO YOU. (805) 496-6660 | 104 East Thousand Oaks Blvd Thousand Oaks, California 91360 | ThousandOaksFireside.com | Info@ThousandOaksFireside.com

Words can’t fully express how honored & grateful I am to everyone who took the time to vote for me as the BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT IN VENTURA COUNTY! At the 2022 Ventura County Star Readers Community Choice Awards Ceremony with votes totaling over 94,000, it was announced that I was voted the #1 BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT in Ventura County by our community. I am thankful to every client that allows me the opportunity to assist them in the search for their new home or the marketing and sale of their present home. If you are thinking of a move in 2023 - Call me today so I can offer my suggestions on how we can strategically stage and market your home to bring you the maximum return.

805.479.7653 rosemaryallison@aol.com | www.callrosemary.com | CalRE #00545184 Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2022 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.