Hidden Hills Community Register • October 2020

HALLOWEEN EVENTS & GUIDELINES

CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES

A SAVORY & COZY POT-PIE RECIPE

CLASSIC

HALLOWEEN MONSTERS ON LONG VALLEY RD and MORE!

HIDDEN HILLS MARKET UPDATE

Hidden Hills Active Listings Map (30 Active Properties)

AUGUST 1 - SEPTEMBER 1 LISTING DATA

In one month’s time, from August 1st, 2020 through September 1st, 2020, a total of 5 homes in Hidden Hills sold as compared to a year before on August 1st, 2019 through September 1st, 2019, which saw 3 homes in Hidden Hills sell! We are continuing to experience a seller’s market during this time. Contact me to discuss your local market report or if you have any real estate questions.

Your home’s value has changed! Visit: HiddenHillsHomeValues.com

INTRODUCING

DAVID WATKINS CONCIERGE SERVICES

Knowing what it takes to increase your home’s selling price and maximize value, David Watkins covers the up-front cost of select home services upon listing your home for sale.

Staging

Deep Cleaning

Decluttering

Cosmetic Renovations

Landscaping

Plumbing Repair

Interior + Exterior Painting

HVAC

Sewer Lateral Inspections + Remediations

Roofing Repair

Moving + Storage

Pest Control

Custom Closet Work

Fencing

Water Heating

Electrical Work

Seller-side Inspections + Evaluations

Kitchen Improvements

Bathroom Improvements

ABOUT DAVID WATKINS

As a local 91302 REALTOR® with two decades of luxury real estate experience, David brings personal care and attention to each of his clients. From the start to the close of a transaction, he works day in and day out to ensure that every step of the process, from home showings to negotiations to inspections, is handled as smoothly as possible with his direct presence and expert guidance. He facilitates consistent communication and encourages feedback from his clients in addition to utilizing both digital and print marketing strategies that are uniquely tailored for each property. Ranked among the top Zillow agents in the area, David takes pride in his high work ethic and strong ability to negotiate desirable results.

ABOUT PINNACLE ESTATE PROPERTIES, INC.

Since 1985, Pinnacle has focused on serving the Southern California real estate market as a full-service brokerage. In exclusive partnership with Luxury Portfolio International and LeadingRE, Pinnacle listings receive maximum global reach in addition to local marketing exposure. Despite being a luxury boutique brokerage with multiple Los Angeles County locations, Pinnacle Estate Properties, Inc. was ranked as the 71st Power Broker out of 500 brokerages selected by Real Estate Magazine, a 40-year stalwart publication of our industry.

the “Pinnacle of Professional Service” for yourself!

Hidden Hills Resident, Realtor®

5716 JED SMITH RD, HIDDEN HILLS

full exam

Xrays

(818) 639-4259 for $79 gift certi cate for cleaning, exam & Xray. First 15 people only!

text VENTURA to call to schedule: (818) 436-0565

COMPLETE HEALTH DENTISTRY

Complete Health Dentistry of Woodland Hills

At Complete Health Dentistry of Woodland Hills, our doctors are dental health care leaders who believe in the importance of oral health as it relates to whole body health. Research has shown that by making good oral health a priority, you can lower the risk factors for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, pregnancy complications, Alzheimer’s as well as certain cancers.

We offer a complete range of dental services for our patients and their families including fillings & crowns, Invisalign®, implants, TMJ/headache therapy, oral cancer exams, snoring appliances and complete periodontal cleanings. We believe a healthy mouth leads to a healthy body so you can enjoy a healthy life for years to come. More info visit: www.CHDWH .com

We look forward to meeting you!

The Improta Team Makes the Difference

COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

Get the latest from the City and the Homeowners Association.

City Council Candidate Personal Statements. (pgs. 18-22)

October Food Truck Schedule. (pg. 25)

HOA’s position on Trick-or-Treating. (pg. 26)

Some Common Sense Halloween Safety Tips. (pg. 28)

Blood Drive Halloween Season Community Events (pg. 29)

31

VIEWFINDER

Photographer Andie Ashley shares some of her favorite Hidden Hills photos.

36

FALL RECIPE

Fig & Sprig shares their famous, savory Chicken Pot Pie.

39

A TRIP TO NAMIBIA

Otherworldly photos from a resident vacation to South-Western Africa.

44

HALLOWEEN HAZARDS FOR PETS

Allie Tashnek, DVM gives the scoop on the dangers of chocolate for dogs.

46

CLASSIC HALLOWEEN MONSTERS INVADE! And are available for selfies.

51

EQUESTRIAN TIP

How to spot and avoid colic.

SUPPORTING BUSINESSES

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

REAL ESTATE AGENTS DINING

MARK & SARA SHEVIN (pg. 1)

DAVID WATKINS (pg. 2)

JILL ROSENBERG (pg.6)

JASON & MELISSA IMPROTA (pg.9)

DAVID SALMANSON (pg.19)

MICHAEL BLOOM (pg.24)

LISA MORIARTY (pg. 42)

ANIMAL CARE

ALLIE TASHNEK, DVM (pg. 7)

BARKBUS MOBILE GROOMING (pg. 47)

MA & PAW KENNEL (pg. 38)

START RESCUE (pg. 54)

HEALTH/WELLNESS/BEAUTY

THE ATRIUM (pg. 4)

COMPLETE HEALTH DENTISTRY (pg. 8)

SALON NUUVO (pg. 27)

VITALITY PERSONAL TRAINING (pg. 30)

COURTYARD PHARMACY (pg. 37)

YOU & ME SPA SERVICES (pg. 37)

CALABASAS MEDICINE

DANIEL ROSEN, MD (pg. 41)

LOVI’S/JOSE GOLDSTEIN’S (pg. 10)

RIB RANCH BBQ (pg. 48)

HOME SERVICES

SUN FIRE DEFENSE (pg. 11)

MURRE CLEANERS (pg. 12)

FUTRONIX AUDIO VIDEO (pg. 15)

UNIVERSAL APPLIANCE & KITCHEN CENTER (pg. 17)

EDLC LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION (pg. 35)

LIGHTSCAPING BY DESIGN (pg. 52)

OC MARBLE & GRANITE (pg. 53)

LEGACY LANDSCAPE SERVICES (pg. 53)

PURE BUILDERS (pg. 55)

EDUCATION

SYNERGY ACADEMICS (pg. 14)

MANZANITA SCHOOL (pg. 21)

JEWELRY / LUXURY

RAIMAN ROCKS (pg. 23)

GOLD COAST COIN EXCHANGE (pg. 49)

BEN BRIDGE JEWELERS (Back Cover)

Founder, Jennifer Lopata

With over 20 years experience in education, behavioral therapy, and child development, Jennifer has developed an affinity for helping children and teens navigate through adolescence and early adulthood.

Community Strategic Plan Adopted by HOA Board

The Board of Directors has announced the adoption of a Strategic Plan for the community. The 28 page document defines the character of the community, establishes its core values and sets forth a path for the future. All homeowners’ associations are guided by the Community Associations Institute to establish these values, goals and challenges to help residents and HOA team members work together toward the common good of the community.

Residents are invited to review it and contact they HOA with any questions. The document can be downloaded from the HOA website: https:// www.hiddenhills.org/importantdocuments.

2020-21 Assessment Rates to Remain the Same

At its meeting of September 15, 2020 the Board of Directors voted to keep the assessment rate the same as the last several years, $.25 per $100 of assessed valuation. Assessment invoices will be mailed out shortly.

There are a few very important things you need to know:

If you have received a Decline in Valuation from the assessor, please send it to the HOA right away. Per the CC&Rs, only those Declines in Valuation that are dated September 4, 2020 or earlier will be used for the 2020-21 assessment. There will be no adjustments made (nor refunds issued) for Declines in Valuation obtained after that date.

If you have a mailing address different from your home address, PLEASE check your dwellingLIVE account to verify the HOA has the

current information. As long as the information on file in dwellingLIVE is current, you don’t need to update the HOA in writing. This year the HOA will be emailing invoices as well as sending them through U.S. mail, so please also verify that your email address in dwellingLIVE is correct. There is a 3% charge for assessments paid via credit card.

PLEASE NOTE: you are responsible to pay your assessments whether you receive the invoice(s) or not. If you do not receive your invoice by the end of October, please call the office and request a duplicate. Assessments are due on November 10, 2020 and late if not received or postmarked by December 10, 2020. Late payments will result in a 10% penalty and 12% interest until paid, so please make sure you pay on time.

NEW RULE: Drivers License Now Required to Enter Community

The rules for guest entry through the gates of Hidden Hills have changed. As of October 1, 2020, every visitor driving a motor vehicle into the community must show a valid Driver’s License in order to be admitted.

Please ensure all your guests and workers are aware of this new rule. This will help avoid delays at the gates. If you anticipate any problems with your workers or guests being able to gain entry, please call the HOA at (818) 227-6657.

VOTE FOR CITY COUNCIL - NOVEMBER 3RD, 2020

STEVE FREEDLAND for HIDDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL

increased our CERT team from 5 to 20 dedicated volunteers. We also acquired an Emergency Vehicle to bolster our resources and guarantee availability of equipment should we have to go it alone again. Undergrounding Utility Poles in our City remains a Public Safety priority project for me, as countless fires, including Woolsey have been started by faulty equipment.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY

on housing that are appropriate for our unique community. Towards that end, I am proud that our City Council recently took the fight to Sacramento and was able to defeat several housing bills that take away local control.

COMMITTEES

• Budget (14 Years)

• Utility Undergrounding

• Long Valley Improvement Project

• LA County Woolsey After Action Task Force

It has been my honor to serve on the Hidden Hills City Council for the last 20 years. (Within the first year of my tenure I eliminated the Utility User’s Tax that had previously cost residents 5% on top of their utility bills.) In my first term, I pushed to eliminate the Utility User’s Tax that required residents to pay a 5% tax to the City on their utilities. Our City’s finances were healthy and I successfully fought to eliminate this tax. As your Council member, I will continue to fight for safety, fiscal responsibility and fairness and use it as my guiding principle.

MY PRIORITIES PUBLIC SAFETY

(I have continuously successfully advocated for an increase in Sheriff Patrols) The City Council has increased Sheriff Patrols and I have forged relationships with Deputies, Detectives, Captains, and Commanders at the Sheriff’s Department which have proven invaluable when additional personnel and resources are needed to protect Hidden Hills. During the Woolsey Fire, as Mayor, I led a team of fellow City Council members, staff, and volunteers that stayed behind after evacuations and extinguished spot fires and protected our boundaries from the encroaching flames. Following Woolsey, we

As the longest serving member of the Budget Committee, I have a strong understanding of the City’s financial position including surplus and investment growth, grants, and FEMA reimbursement. The City’s healthy reserves and unique investment policy provide funds for undergrounding, additional public safety, and capital improvement projects. I am most proud of identifying the opportunity to join neighboring cities in seeking damages from SCE following Woolsey resulting in a $1,000,000 settlement directly to the City.

PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS

I worked on the committee that purchased the empty lot at the Long Valley Gate, using funding provided by LA County. This project both alleviates morning traffic and will allow for a major remodel of the Long Valley Entrance. Additionally, Fiber to the Home will bring high speed internet to every resident of Hidden Hills. The Round Meadow School Traffic Improvement Project, a joint project between the City and the LVUSD, significantly decreased traffic during drop off and pick up times.

LOCAL CONTROL IN HOUSING LEGISLATION

I will continue to work with my fellow City Council members to ensure that your local elected officials, rather than Sacramento politicians, make decisions

• LVUSD City/School Advisory Committee

Serving on your Council is a privilege and responsibility that I take very seriously. Hidden Hills is my home, where I raised my family. Representing you and our special community is a full-time job that I do not take lightly.

In times like these, a proven experienced leader on City Council handling crises and working as a part of a close knit team is essential. With your vote, I hope to continue as a Council member and finish what I have started, as right now is not a time for CHANGE, it is a time for strength, strong leadership and someone who you trust to always do what is fair and right.

Please vote to RE-ELECT me, STEVE FREEDLAND, in the upcoming 2020 City Council Election. Thank You!

CANDIDATE’S PERSONAL STATEMENT

ENIKO GOLD for HIDDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL

My crisis resolution and mediation skills helped me with my current work as a Manager of a Real Estate Portfolio for residential rental properties. I oversee every aspect of management from tenant screening to remodels, from conflict resolution to communications with governmental agencies, such as the Housing Authority of Los Angeles and the Federally Assisted Housing/Section 8 Department. Due to the red tape and frequently changing regulations on federal, state and local levels, I’m conversant in complex documents, procedures and fair-minded decision making. As an experienced businesswoman and Mother, I’m prepared to serve our city responsively and effectively.

MY PRIORITIES IF ELECTED:

• Prevent the overdevelopment of Hidden Hills and Protect the Hidden Hills General Plan

• Enhance Public Safety & Advocate for better Infrastructure and Technology as homeschooling and remote work have made this a necessity in any first rate city.

• Prioritize the quality of life in Hidden Hills, above all else.

Hidden Hills was love at first site for me: its white three rail fences, beautiful trees and magnificent horses. But what truly captivated me and made this city my home was our welcoming and inclusive community, which I cherish beyond words.

Family values and community service are all-important to me and to my family: my husband Max and our three beautiful children: Lincoln 5, Samantha 9, and Sydney 11. Like all parents, we have worked hard to instill values in our children in meaningful ways, for example through volunteerism, hard work and civic involvement.

After years of volunteering for our Homeowners Association, our Hidden Hills Parks and Recreations Committee and other grass-roots efforts such as leading the Hidden Hills Mommy and Me and Alumni group, I am ready to do MORE for you and for our city.

My Master’s Degree in Counseling from the University of California Northridge prepared me to be a critical thinker, attentive listener and an effective communicator. As a counselor at the San Fernando Valley Community Mental Health Center. I advocated for elderly and disabled clients in convalescence homes and assisted living facilities.

I am ready to work on your behalf to keep the spirit of Hidden Hills alive and create more ways for it to thrive. I will be YOUR voice, and will serve you with integrity, accountability, transparency and energy. I do my homework and get things done.

I would be honored to have your vote.

*I would love to communicate with you directly and welcome all questions and concerns. If we don’t know each other, I know it’s tough to get together during COVID, but we can meet over zoom for coffee or talk via email or phone! Please send me an email at eniko4hh@yahoo.com

A NEW SCHOOL INSPIRED BY TIMELESS IDEAS

Now accepting applications for the 2020-21 school year. Contact the Admissions Office for information about upcoming Admissions events. admissions@manzanitaschool.org.

Now accepting applications for the 2020-21 school year. Contact the Admissions Office for information about upcoming Admissions events. admissions@manzanitaschool.org.

Manzanita is an independent school located in Topanga Canyon. We are welcoming families to visit our living classroom and submit applications for the 2020-21 school year.

Serving families with students in grades 4 through 12

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SIX GUIDING PRINCIPLES AND UNLOCKING THE INTRINSIC GIFTS WITHIN ADOLESCENTS

Bret Katz Withdrawing from Election for City Council

regular check-ins and assistance to our most vulnerable neighbors In addition, the City stockpiled emergency supplies, such as food, masks, and cleaning, in the event the pandemic took a much worse turn.

Due to circumstances related to the growth of my business, my commitment to City Council will be diverted to more personal matters. Therefore, to ensure the City receives the proper time commitment for this important position, I formally withdraw my name from the election. I do this with the full confidence that I am leaving the City Council in the good hands of; Stuart Siegel, Steve Freedland, Laura McCorkindale, Larry Webber and Eniko Gold.

SO, WHILE MY NAME WILL APPEAR ON THE BALLOT, I AM NOT SEEKING REELECTION OR YOUR VOTE.

As my term as Mayor is concluding I can’t help but be thankful and grateful to live in this wonderful community, the City of Hidden Hills. We are all so fortunate to have such a closeknit and friendly neighborhood filled with successful and creative people from a range of life experiences, which brings so much to all of us.

My service to the City of Hidden Hills, started by working on several committees, followed by election to the Hidden Hills Homeowners Association. Later, I ran for and was elected to serve on the 2017 City Council of the City of Hidden Hills. In those four years we have accomplished a lot and assisted the residents of our city through several crises. A strategic land

purchase improved the traffic flow at the Long Valley Gate. Finally, we redesigned and help fund a new student “Drop-Off” area to improve traffic flow and student safety at Round Meadow Elementary School.

We have had our share of challenges as well, including the Woolsey Fire, which motivated us to increase our firefighting assets by purchasing our own fire suppression and other safety equipment. All in all, we improved the safety for everyone here by bolstering our emergency preparedness. The most recent challenge has been our response to COVID-19. I am proud of our City and residents who banded together and created “Community Care” which provided

My time serving this great community has been rewarding on many levels; especially working to guide our community to adapt and thrive in a changing world while preserving our traditions and sense of community.

The Hidden Hills team does so much, we could not be in better hands, so a special Thank you to; City Manager – Kerry Kallman, City Clerk: Deana Graybill, Accounting Specialist: Theresa Folk, City Engineer: Dirk Lovett, Building Inspector: Steve O’Hara, Emergency Services Coordinator: Mike Woodard, and City Attorney: Roxanne Diaz.

When circumstances change and I can allot the time and focus necessary to serve this great community again, I hope to return and serve on City Council.

A special Thank You to all of the residents of our City of Hidden Hills.

michael BLOOM

Michael Bloom

“As

ORDER AHEAD ONLINE ONLY

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

PINCH OF FLAVOR ASIAN FUSION

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1st | 4PM - 8PM

Pinch of Flavor , a new home made touch with a fusion exploring Mexican, Japanese, and American Flavors.

FOOD TRUCKS AT THE COMMUNITY CENTER

to pad siew and pineapple fried rice. Plus Thai iced tea to wash it all down

PACIFICO CHARBROILED FISH

MONDAY, OCTOBER 12th | 11PM - 2PM

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

HALLOWEEN NIGHT!

STOUT BURGERS

MONDAY, OCTOBER 19th | 11PM - 2PM

Stout serves new-style burgers. Beef cooked medium rare, (or a quinoa based veggie option), dressed with a variety of toppings such as onions cooked down to the sweetness of maple syrup, specialty cheeses, smoky bacon, and arugula.

THE MIDDLE FEAST

MONDAY, OCTOBER 5th | 11PM - 2PM

The Food Network’s “Great Food Truck Race” winners have been bringing Middle Eastern food with an Asian and Mexican twist to hungry belly’s from the sea to the desert and everywhere in between.

VIVACE & 8E8 THAI

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31st | 4PM - 8PM

VIVACE PIZZA

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22nd | 4PM - 8PM

Vivace uses 100% organic flour and a 200 year-old sourdough starter to make their dough . All of their pizzas are baked in their 5,500 lb. wood-fired pizza oven, handmade in Naples, Italy.

LE PASTA DI PEPITO

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15th | 4PM - 8PM

8E8 THAI STREET FOOD

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8th | 4PM - 8PM

8E8 Thai Street Food was founded by a descendant from a long line of Thai cooks. Cuisine features everything from the classic pad thai and drunken noodles

It’s hard to resist the allure of the fragrant, flavorful herbs and spices that season dishes like pastas and paninis. This truck is bringing all that on wheels to Hidden Hills. Just stop by La Pasta and get all your faves served up lightning fast.

RICHEEZE

MONDAY, OCTOBER 26th | 11PM - 2PM

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

HOA SPOOKED ABOUT ANNUAL TRICK-OR-TREATING SUPPORT

STREET CLOSURES & LIGHTING WILL NOT BE IMPLEMENTED THIS YEAR. GATE CALL-DOWN RULES REMAIN IN PLACE. SOCIAL DISTANCING ENCOURAGED.

Halloween in Hidden Hills, for many, is one of this community’s most beloved and looked-forward-to traditions. The decorations, revelry and creatively dressed crowds of both kids and adults filling the streets never fails to be both epic and cinematic. Year after year, the HOA has been incredibly supportive of the festivities, however, in the face of the continuing pandemic, it seems

“Many people have been asking what the Association’s position is on Halloween. The Board would like to remind residents that the County has already issued rules for Halloween, and it urges all residents to fully comply with them. The full County Health Order is attached; the highlights are as follows:

Trick-or-treating is not recommended, as it’s difficult to socially distance or to ensure germs are not spread through passing candy.

Gatherings involving people outside of your household are prohibited. In years past, there have been large gatherings in the vicinity of Round Meadow and Wingfield Roads as well as in other areas. We would like to ask residents to avoid gathering in the streets, and in order to discourage people from doing so, we will not be closing any street sections or erecting any barricades or lights

the responsibility to maintain a certain level of public safety must prevail, which surely was not an easy decision for the board. While trick-or-treating is not prohibited, the following of guidelines and common sense is encouraged. Below is their official statement.

The Gate Manual already has a rule for entry on Halloween, and this will be in effect. As a reminder, no call-ups will be made and no call-downs will be accepted by the gate officers after 5:00 p.m. on Halloween. If you are expecting guests after 5 p.m., you must enter them in dwellingLIVE.

Ultimately, the best way to safeguard your family is to stay inside your home/on your property and to not hand out candy. We realize this will be difficult, as Halloween is beloved tradition in Hidden Hills. But if we could just get through this while staying safe this year, hopefully we will be able to enjoy the holiday together next year.

Thank you for your cooperation.”

Halloween is a favorite event for kids of all ages and during the Covid-19 season here are a few ways you can keep yourself and others safe while trick or treating.

1. Pre Package your candy for treaters and hand them out minimizing the contact between kids.

2. Try finding a fun costume that you can easily wear a mask with or theme the costume around a mask. You can also order fabric online that matches the costume and design a mask to match.

3. Wear a mask and gloves when passing out candy to the kids.

4. Display a sign outside your home that its safe and you have taken precautions to ensure minimal contact and have hand sanitizer available to treaters.

5. Place your trick or treat station outside.

6. Maintain 5ft distance in between treater groups.

7. Limit the amount of kids in your treating group and allow space when treaters are in line for their treats.

8. Start early when there are less crowds.

9. Use a prop or accessory to ring doorbells and knock on doors.

10. Have fun and make it as normal for smaller kids as you can. This is the ideal time to make wearing a mask fun and creative.

We all want our kids to have as normal a holiday as possible so here are some simple steps to ensure everyone has a great Halloween

BLOOD DRIVE AT THE COMMUNITY CENTER, OCTOBER 26th.

Due to the effects of COVID-19, there is an urgent need for blood. If you are able, please join your giving neighbors in donating blood at the Hidden Hills Community Center on October 26th from 11am - 4pm.. Appointments are recommended, please visit ucedonor.com, then click on “Blood Drives” and enter HH in Zip Code or Account Code Box. SELECT BLOOD DONATIONS WILL RECEIVED COVID-19 ANTIBODY TESTING and eligible donors will receive a promotional item. Remember to eat well and increase your fluid intake a couple of days before and the day of your donation. PLEASE BRING A PHOTO ID.

At the Hidden Hills Community Center.

Monday October 26th 11am - 4pm

AT PRESS-TIME, FULL DETAILS FOR THE BELOW EVENTS HAD NOT BEEN FINALIZED BY THE PARK AND RECS COMMITTEE. CHECK-IN WITH THE HOA WEBSITE FOR DETAILS AS THE EVENTS DATE NEAR. hiddenhills.org

DRIVE-IN MOVIE NIGHTS

OCTOBER 17th & 18th

HOUSE DECORATING CONTEST

Decorate your house for Halloween! There will be several categories to win prizes - and separate categories for Professional Decorated versus Amateur Decorated! The winners will be tallied on Oct 30th and 31st and announced on November 1st!

• Halloween Costume Contest -VirtualAdults, Children by Age Group and Animals by Size

• Pumpkin Decorating Contest - Virtual -

• Halloween Neighborhood Scavenger Hunt - Details will be released on October 15th

VIEWFINDER

HIDDEN HILLS THROUGH THE LENS OF RESIDENT ANDIE ASHLEY

COMMENTARY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDIE ASHLEY

Ilive at the top of Jim Bridger Road, and over the years I have been treated to many spectacular sights from this vantage point. It’s an ever-changing story of the seasons. Sometimes it’s a fiery sunrise or a rainbow after a storm. On rare occasions the fog settles

low over Hidden Hills and all of the Valley and creates an other-worldly view.

I’ve had coyotes drink from my pool, and hawks and owls spend a few nights in the oaks on top of my hill. I have even surprised a deer or two on

my early morning walks on the bridle trails.

The scene and the light changes with the weather and the seasons, from green to gold, and my camera is always on the ready to capture another wonderful view.

PRIOR PAGE: FOG IN THE VALLEY ONCE IN A WHILE THE FOG SETS IN DEEPLY IN THE WEST VALLEY, AND MY HOUSE IS ABOVE IT ALL. THIS SHOT IS LOOKING WEST OVER WOODLAND HILLS WITH CHALK HILL IN THE BACKGROUND.

LEFT: HAWK IN MY OAK TREE. THIS STATELY HAWK PERCHED IN MY OAK TREE FOR SEVERAL MINUTES. HE WAS NOT BOTHERED BY ME AND MY CAMERA WHEN I CAME OVER TO TAKE THIS SHOT OF HIM FROM BELOW.

BELOW: SUNRISE OVER THE VALLEY. LATE IN THE YEAR, AROUND NOVEMBER, THE SUNRISES I CAN SEE FROM MY YARD OVER THE VALLEY ARE DAZZLING, ESPECIALLY IF THERE ARE CLOUDS AFTER A STORM.

ABOVE: SNOW ABOVE CHATSWORTH. IT’S A RARE DAY WHEN WE CAN SEE SNOW ON THE HILLS BEHIND CHATSWORTH, BUT A FEW YEARS AGO I WAS LUCKY ENOUGH TO SEE IT ON THE HILLS FROM MY YARD. IT ONLY LASTED FOR A FEW DAYS.

RIGHT:

DEER ON THE BRIDLE TRAIL. HIS WAS TAKEN AFTER THE FIRE THAT BLEW BY US TWO YEARS AGO, AND I WAS GOING FOR MY MORNING WALK UP OFF OF BUTTERFIELD ROAD. THIS HANDSOME BUCK WAS A SURPRISED AS I WAS WHEN WE CAME FACE TO FACE ON THE TRAIL.

LEFT: VIEW OF THE HILLS. I FREQUENTLY TAKE SHOTS OF THIS VIEW TOWARDS BELL CANYON AND THE HILLS THAT ARE BETWEEN US. IT CHANGES WITH EVERY SEASON AND THIS WAS IN LATE SUMMER.

LEFT: COYOTE AT MY POOL. THIS WAS A LUCKY SHOT ONE AFTERNOON, WHEN THIS HANDSOME HUNTER TOOK A DRINK OUT OF MY POOL. HE WAS NOT DISTURBED WHEN I STEPPED OUT TO TAKE HIS PICTURE, AND HE POSED REGALLY FOR ME.

Chicken Pot Pie

MAKES

4

SERVINGS

For the Crust

• 2 cups AP flour

• 1 pack of cream cheese (8 oz)

• 2 sticks cold butter cubed

• Pinch of salt

For the Filling

• 2 cups medium diced carrots

• 1 cup medium diced fresh fennel

• 1 cup medium diced celery

• 1 cup medium diced yellow onion

• 2 cups diced washed clean leeks

• 3 cups of low sodium chicken stock (store bought or homemade)

• 2 tbsp. Light olive oil

• 1/2 stick of unsalted butter

• 1/3 cup of AP flour

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts diced and cooked

• Salt and pepper to taste

DON’T WANT TO BAKE? YOU CAN PICK ONE UP TODAY!

DIRECTIONS FOR THE CRUST

In a food processor add two cups flour and a pinch of salt, pulse a few times to incorporate. Add cold cubed butter and pulse a few more times until mixture looks like coarse cornmeal. Add cream cheese and pulse just until mixture comes together. Wrap dough in plastic wrap, refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight.

FOR THE FILLING

1.) In a large pot, saute carrots, onions, leeks, fennel, and celery in olive oil. Season with salt and pepper and continue to cook until translucent and begins to caramelize. Add ½ stick butter. Continue to cook until butter is melted. Add ⅓ cup flour, stir into butter and vegetables. Cook for 3 more minutes, add 3 cups of stock. Cook medium-low heat while continuously stirring until mixture thickens. Add ¼ cup cream and cook for 3 more minutes. Remove from heat, add chicken, cool filling for 30 minutes. Pour filling into 8x8 casserole dish or 9 in pie dish.

2.) Preheat oven to 375°. Whisk 1 egg in small dish

3.) Remove dough from fridge, roll out dough ¼ in thickness with flour as needed. (Size will depend on pan you are using.) Place dough on top of filling in dish. Cut off excess dough on edges, leaving enough to crimp. Brush with egg wash. Bake for 30-40 minutes, until puffed and golden brown.

Courtyard Pharmacy’s founding pharmacist, Greta Goldshtein, is an advanced practice pharmacist. She based Courtyard Pharmacy’s services on a collaborativecare model that includes a pharmacist who can augment physician-provided care, deliver medication therapy management, provide preventative care services, and facilitate transitions of care. The pharmacy’s staff can steward the care of your family members to alleviate the burden on busy caregivers having to navigate mediation therapy on their own. They also make house calls and deliveries.

Greta and her staff strive to build strong relationships with their neighbors so that they can get a full understanding of every patient’s needs, meet their expectations and keep them involved in their care at every phase. State of the art healthcare and wellness support are now available to all age groups at your doorstep in Calabasas.

818.403.3072

Agnieszka Cey

Massage Therapist & Esthetician

Massage Therapy and Custom Facials • Waxing • Dermaplaning

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to NAMIBIA A TRIP

Namibia is a vast, sparsely populated country situated along the south Atlantic coast of Africa. It is the first country in the world that has incorporated the protection of the

environment into its constitution. My 12-year-old son Noah was wanting to go back to Africa but explore a different country, so this is where we decided to go. We started the trip by Flying from Johannesburg to Windhoek. Most of Namibia is traveled by small private

air charter due to the size and diversity of the terrain. If you have weeks to spend, driving is a great option, but we had to fit in as much as we could in 10 days, so we chose to fly on a small, light, private charter with Desert Air. We overnighted for 2 nights at the

Omaanda in the Zannier Reserve. (www. zannierhotels.com/omaanda)

While there we visited an early morning drive to see the meerkat manors and toured the Rhino sanctuary and cheetah rehabilitation center.

Sossusvlei was out next stop and the flight was a short 40 min

The small aircraft flies low so you can see the beauty of the land you’re flying over. Sossusvlei is possibly Namibia’s most spectacular and best-known attraction. Characterized by the large red dunes that surround it, Sossusvlei is a large, white, salt and clay pan and is a great destination all year round. The dunes in this area are some of the highest in the world. The beauty of the Red Dunes and Dead Vlei is unmatched and also you may only see an occasional Oryx antelope. It was windy the day we went so I would suggest packing a pair of goggles, hat, and a buff. Climbing the dunes is a lot harder than you think and they go on for days so be prepared if you are going to hike “Big Daddy” to be exhausted when you finish it. We spent 3 days exploring the area and one of the things my son wanted to do is go on an ATV tour to look at the Fairy circles located in the vast desert. Our day trip took us to a castle in the desert Le Mirage Resort and Spa (mirage-lodge.com). This place was a dream and I would highly recommend staying there while in Sossusvlei.

Next stop we decided to overnight in Swakopmund on the way to Skeleton Coast. This is a coastal city with plenty to see and do. We only had the day and we spent the day exploring the pink salt flats and walking around the coast. They offer lots of activities and things to do so if you have more than a day you would not run out of things to do and see.

Skeleton Coast was our last leg of the trip and it did not disappoint. This is a very remote area and is known for the numerous shipwrecks over the years that are still on the shores waiting to be explored and the washed-up animal and whale bones that litter the coast. It is one of the most treacherous coastlines in the world due to strong crosscurrents, heavy swells and dense fogs caused by the ice-cold fast-flowing Benguela Current. We stayed at a new property, Shipwreck Lodge (shipwrecklodge.com.na). The Skeleton Coast is a place unlike any other. It’s an eerie, desolate region with an infamous history.

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Yet it’s also one of the most beautiful and incredible places to visit. Despite being inhospitable, the Skeleton Coast is home to many animals. Gemsbok (oryx), springbok, jackal, ostrich and brown hyena roam the park while desert-adapted elephants and even black rhino, lion and giraffe travel up and down the dry river courses. This was my son Noah’s favorite part of the trip. It’s very isolated but the area is stunning, and it’s surrounded with dunes where we

rode ATVs and walked the coast looking for bones and rocks on the shore. We also took a nature drive through the Hoarusib River and spotted the illusive and hard to find Brown Hyena as well as desert elephants.

This was one of my favorite trips to Africa and I would Highly recommend it if you’re a photographer and enjoy off the beaten path vacations.

Travel Tips for Namibia

1. Book at least 1 year in advance-If you have the time book things yourself and not through a tour company. You will thank me for the cost savings.

2. Pack Light- you will have to fly on a light aircraft so no roller bags just soft sided duffle bags. Most places will do your laundry so you don’t need to pack a lot.

3. Lots of Sand- it tends to get windy there so expect to have sand everywhere and that includes your camera so pack a buff, mask and eye protection especially for Sossusvlei.

4. If you choose to fly your pilot will most likely travel the entire trip with you so you will have to pay for his pilot lodging and they discount the price for those rooms so be sure to tell them your in need of a pilot room

5. Everyone speaks english and 5 other languages in Namibia so you will be able to take tours from your hotel without issue but please don’t forget to tip your drivers and pilot at the end of your vacation.

6. If you choose to drive you will need to rent a toyota landcruiser and they most likely will come with camper pop ups but know the roads are bumpy and not paved and gravel in most places and you can go a full day without seeing another vehicle.

7. Pack a good Camera your phone camera wont do the landscape justice.

8. US passport holders will need at least 5 blank pages and 6 months before expiration. You do not need vaccinations or shots for namibia

9. Be prepared for no wifi or cell service in many of the locations and enjoy the silence.

10. Animals in the Namibia desert are around but don’t expect to see large herds and the big 5 during your stay. Many of the creatures are desert dwellers. We learned a lot about the insects and smaller things that can survive in that environment.

HALLOWEEN a SCARY TIME FOR DOGS

CHOCOLATE MAY BE SWEET TO US BUT CAN BE DEADLY FOR DOGS

As we enter into October, our thoughts turn to Halloween and a smorgasbord of tasty treats. One such treat can be deadly to canines - CHOCOLATE. As the holiday approaches, there are lots of ways your dog can find chocolate. A bowl of candy left out for trick or treaters, an unattended trick or treat bag, or even outside on the ground the day after trick or treating. Wrappers don’t usually deter dogs either - some dogs are known to eat an entire bag full of candy, wrappers and all!

The toxic component of chocolate is theobromine. This substance is similar to caffeine and, while easily processed by humans, it is not easily processed by dogs, allowing toxic levels to build up. As a vet, one of the common questions we hear is “my dog ate chocolate, now what?,” The answer to this question depends on many factors. First, the size of the dog matters. A large dog can tolerate higher amounts of chocolate than a small dog can. The next thing we consider is how much chocolate did the dog eat. Eating an entire package of Ghirardelli is much more dangerous than if your canine just helped themselves to one small serving. The type of chocolate matters as well - dark chocolate and cocoa powder contain more theobromine than milk chocolate. A dog that ate a small amount of dark chocolate may have a higher likelihood of getting sick than if they ate a larger amount of milk

chocolate. It is also important to note that in the case of baked goods, oftentimes there is more than one toxic ingredient that dogs can come acrossraisins, alcohol products, and artificial sweeteners like xylitol all can cause severe health problems in dogs.

So your dog ate chocolate, what should you do now? Always call your veterinarian immediately for advice. This is not a time when you should watch and wait; you need to take action immediately. First, your vet may be able to determine whether or not your dog ingested a toxic dose. If so, your vet will likely recommend examining your dog, and may induce vomiting. It is important to induce vomiting within a couple hours of ingestion, in order to limit the amount of toxic substance that is absorbed into the body. Next steps depend on the amount and type of chocolate consumed. Some dogs don’t need any further care, while others may need intense hospitalization and supportive treatments.

Mild cases can cause an upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea. Most of these dogs recover completely! However, more severe cases can lead to hyperactivity, increased body temperature, muscle rigidity, increased heart rate, seizures, and even cardiac arrest and death. Most of these outcomes can be prevented with early veterinary

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

intervention. With any poisoning case, it is always best to seek treatment right away. It is easier (and a cheaper vet visit) to treat the patient initially, rather than treat the symptoms once the poison has been absorbed.

So remember this Halloween season, be aware of what goodies your dog has access to, and if your dog does ingest chocolate, call your vet immediately. Have as much information as possible to share with your veterinarian. This

will help your vet determine if a toxic dose was ingested and if emergency treatment is needed. Following these tips will ensure your canine friends have a safe Halloween. Happy trick or treating!

Disclaimer: This article is only intended to provide general information and not intended to provide veterinary medical recommendations. Please consult with your pet’s veterinarian for medical advice specific to your pet.

SO, YOUR DOG ATE CHOCOLATE, WHAT SHOULD YOU DO NOW?

OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY

UNIVERSAL CLASSIC MONSTERS HALLOWEEN HOUSE

Jen Zuiker’s Front Yard 23924 Long Valley Rd.

(This is an event presented by a homeowner and is not affiliated with the city or HOA).

In recent years, Hidden Hills has been treated to an absolute Halloween spook-tacular created by “Gory Girl” Jen Zuiker. The staging, detail, attention and care is always top-notch and completely overthe-top. It is a new and much-loved tradition that is the product of a year’s worth of planning by Jen, pulling from an ever-growing collection of props and memorabilia that spans two warehouses.

This year of course, things are “a little different,” but that is not stopping Jen.

On October 28th, this year’s pageant of frights will be unveiled. There will be Classic Monsters from iconic Hollywood films, set up in vignettes carefully positioned for safe and social-distanced photo ops.

On Halloween night, a face mask or face covering will be required for

entry and a sign will be posted outside encouraging all guests to respectfully follow the rules. There will be hand sanitizer stations upon entry and exit.

PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THE FOLLOWING WHEN YOU ATTEND

No touching of props. Trick-orTreaters will be able to take a photo with their phone at each of the stations.

Candy will be pre packaged and handed out limiting contact between guests.

Please DO NOT LINGER OR GATHER.

The flow of people will be timed and controlled by staff who will be in masks to ensure safety of guests and to help prevent large groups from gathering outside.

The parkways in front of the house will be blocked from parking to allow for people to wait, ensuring social distance guidelines.

A NOTE FROM JEN:

I will be doing my best to treat Halloween this year with Covid in mind and safety has been carefully thought out, but with that said, it is up to people to respect covid protocols and not gather outside or linger for extended periods of time. I can only do what I can at my own home. The HOA up has posted halloween safety guidelines for people to consider (see pg. 28) and I can only hope that people are respectful and keep those guidelines in mind when out with their kids on Halloween this year.

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

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

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TELLTALE SIGNS OF COLIC and how to MINIMIZE THE RISK

Along with many other things, fluctuating temperatures seem to trigger a rise in the number of colic cases vets see, perhaps because horses haven’t kept up with their water needs. Lots of other factors can also lead to colic: a change of diet (new batch of hay, too much grain) sand ingestion, lack of exercise, bad teeth, access to cool clean water, gas, impaction and stress.

Signs to look for include leaving food uneaten, standing quietly, stretching out as if to urinate without actually urinating, looking at their sides, restlessness and pawing at the ground, kicking at their stomach, lying down at an uncharacteristic time of day, rolling or attempting to roll, sweating and increased breathing rate, elevated pulse, lying down and reluctance to get up.

What to do first depends on your level of expertise. If you are comfortable taking your horse’s temperature, checking their heart rate, and listening for gut sounds, these are valuable pieces of information for your vet. Please call your

vet as soon as you realize that your horse isn’t feeling well –it is usually easier (and less expensive) to treat a colic sooner rather than later. A seemingly mild condition can quickly become severe and untreatable. Your vet will probably ask you to remove all food and may also suggest that you take your horse for a walk. Do not administer Banamine or other medication unless the vet instructs you to. Medication may complicate getting an accurate diagnosis. If you do not have a trailer, make sure someone who does is on call just in case you need to take your horse to the hospital.

Things you can do to reduce the risk of colic. Always have plenty of fresh water available, feed good quality hay on a regular schedule, make any feed changes gradually, make sure to have your vet check your horse’s teeth regularly, make sure your horse gets regular exercise, minimize the amount of sand and dirt your horse eats by feeding on a mat or in a feeder. Follow your vet’s recommendation for regular parasite control.

As we head into Fall and temperatures start to fluctuate savvy horse owners know it is time to keep an even closer eye on their horses.

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