Issuu

F E B R UA RY 2 02 1

Love Where You Live

at Griffin Senior Living Communities

W E LLN E S S H E AR T H E ALT H 101 G O RED FO R WO M EN LI F E + C U LTU R E B L AC K H IS T O RY M O N T H S TAT E O F T H E C I T Y

“Our need toto provide provide “Our beautiful beautiful new new space has everyt hing we need our clients clients wit wit hh t he best service we can!” our ---Jill JillHaney Haney Jill Haney VP Branch VP /// Branch BranchManager Manager VP Manager Forover over45 45years, years,Montecito Montecito Bank Bank & & Trust Trust has has For For over 45 years, Montecito Bank & proudly served our Central Coast communities. proudly proudlyserved servedour ourCentral Central Coast Coast communities. communities. Our friendly bankers invite you to stop by by and and Our Ourfriendly friendlybankers bankersinvite invite you you to to stop stop seeour ournew newand andimproved improved Westlake Westlake Branch! Branch! see our new and improved Westlake Branch! see Comeexperience experiencefor foryourself yourself what what aa a community community Come experience for yourself what community Come bankcan cando dofor foryou. you. bank can do for you. bank

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

The annual Woman of the Year celebration is sponsored every year by the California Legislative Women’s Caucus as part of the Women’s History Month I am flattered to receive this honor and be placed in such distinguished ranks as those of the past honorees. These women exemplify courage, dedication and a determination to build a better quality of life for our community, helping future generations face the challenges that are put in front of them. I am honored to be working alongside some of the most passionate community advocates and change-makers in California without which none of my goals could have been accomplished.

Let Rosemary use her award winning techniques to introduce a qualified buyer to your home. Innately understanding the finer points of caring for clients with high net worth, and even higher expectations, Rosemary masterfully unites sellers of the finest homes in Ventura County with quality buyers from across the globe.

Voted Readers Choice BEST Real Estate Agent for 2020

805.479.7653

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

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

Senior gated community on golf course in Camarilo

6089 San Dimas

Senior Gated Community on golf course in Camarillo. Location! Location! Location! Fabulous Golf Course Beauty! Desirable 55 & better gated community. Peaceful Mountain & Fairway Views from this prime lot. Bonus/Utility room perfect for office den or favorite hobby. Easy care flooring thru-out entry, hallway, kitchen & dinning. Cozy dining area adjacent cheerful kitchen. Custom built-in too! Bright & airy model . Vaulted ceiling. Large sun-filled rooms. Brick fireplace in spacious living room with views. Huge Master Suite. Garden tub, shower & walk-in closet too! Private Guest bedroom & full bath located away from Master. Home has been cared for with lots of T.L.C.; Charming covered patio to enjoy that perfect Sunset! Amenities galore including Steps to Golf Course, Clubhouse, Pool, Spa, RV parking; Nature Trails & more.

Leisure Village sought after La Jolla model w/ 2 car Garage 2 bedrooms Family Room Den & 2 baths! 40216 Village #40 | 2 beds | 2 baths | Camarillo - Leisure Village | $699,000 | 40216Village.com Active Senior Living (55+) - This is a great La Jolla unit with a TWO car garage on a corner lot (end unit). This home features a large beautifully upgraded den with fireplace,formal entry with tile floor; large living room with skylight; formal dining room with garden windows; great patio enclosure addtion; ugraded kitchen with light colored cabinets and pull-out shelves; large master bedroom with walk-in closet (double shelf rods in closet); beautiful covered patio with skylights and pebble coating. This is a unique home and a must see. Designated RV Parking area for residents.

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

Santa Rosa Valley Tuscan Inspired Estate

2860 Las Brisas | 5 beds | 4.5 baths | Santa Rosa Valley | $1,899,000 | 2860LasBrisas.com Conceived of the drama & the romance of an exquisite one-story Tuscan inspired Estate, spanning over 4600 square feet, located on over an acre in the exclusive gated Las Brisas neighborhood of Santa Rosa Valley. Distinguished architectural bearing & the use of enduring gleaming wood flooring throughout. Remodeled gourmet island kitchen with stainless appliances, granite kitchen counters. Fireplaces in family room, primary suite, and living room. This architectural masterpiece offers 5 bedrooms, 4 full baths and powder room. Exhibiting extraordinary craftsmanship, and a stylistic confluence of modernity and sophistication that redefines all expectations including a show stopping temperature-controlled wine cellar. The masterful architecture offers luxury designed to seamlessly combine indoor and incredible outdoor living spaces with gorgeous bi-fold doors. The primary bedroom suite indulges the owner, with an enormous walk in closet, fireplace and luxurious remodeled bath, with huge separate shower. Rear yard replete with resort pool with spa, waterfalls, gas firepits, gazebo, garden with fruit trees, wine vineyard, custom made pizza oven and bocce ball court. Oversized 3 car garage and RV access. This is truly one of the most unique properties to grace the Santa Rosa Valley.

Coldwell Banker Realty 805.479.7653 | rosemaryallison@aol.com | www.callrosemary.com |

CalRE #00545184

On a Clear Day You Can See Forever from one of the most breathtaking estates in Santa Rosa Valley with elevated sweeping panoramic views all the way to the Channel Islands. Located high atop Santa Rosa Valley’s uppermost ridge, this secluded ultra-private gated estate provides custom details everywhere including vaulted beam ceilings, custom woodwork and travertine flooring. This remodeled home evokes classic Santa Barbara with the ease of single level living providing 3 ample sized bedrooms plus an office, elegant in design, ideal for formal entertaining and comfortable family living. Just off the gourmet kitchen is a set of doors that open out onto a dining and lounging terrace with cross-canyon views. The whole house unfolds to the views and the outdoor living spaces. Primary bedroom suite with luxurious remodeled bath and large walk-in closet. The office has elegant wood panel walls, built in bookcases and views. An outdoor patio area with fountain and fireplace lends itself to a relaxing, ultra private spa like experience. Property is approx. 5 acres, with plenty of southern exposure space that is ready for a private orchard or vineyard. A beautifully finished three car garage with cabinets and epoxy floors, additional RV parking and a large area adjacent to a rear private driveway has been used in the past for horses where a tackroom /shed currently exists and is ideal for a multitude of other uses.

Coldwell Banker Realty 805.479.7653 | rosemaryallison@aol.com | www.callrosemary.com |

CalRE #00545184

Beautiful single story Bridlewood home in Santa Rosa Valley

12425 Saddleridge | 4 beds | 3 baths | Santa Rosa Valley | $1,229,000 | 12425Saddleridge.com Enjoy living in this single story Bridlewood home! Meander the front walkway and enter into this spacious and inviting home with 4 bedrooms, plus office, 3 baths and views from almost every room. Enter to an open and airy Living Room featuring vaulted ceiling and fireplace with adjacent Dining Room. Enjoy the Kitchen with wood cabinets, large center island that opens to the Family room with sliding doors. Dine al fresco on the outstretched patio. Retreat to the Master Bedroom with its sitting area. Master Bathroom features two separate vanities, soaking tub, beautiful shower and two large closets. Three other bedrooms are nicely sized bathroom. 3 car attached garage. RV access and a community that includes equestrian trails, arena and picnic area. Single story homes like this don’t come around often so seize the day and live where you dreamed of living!

Spanish Hills Opulence Beyond your Wildest Imagination

750 Camino Tierra Santa | 5 beds | 5 baths | Camarillo - Spanish Hills | $3,499,000 | 750CaminoTierraSanta.com Nestled in the Camarillo Foothills adjacent to the Spanish Hills Country Club and facing the Pacific Ocean is the most extraordinary estate in all of Ventura County. Huge $500,000 price reduction. All offers considered. One of a kind villa, mere words cannot describe this breath-taking property. With over a million dollars invested in fine custom finishes worthy of the finest Italian palazzo and a million dollars devoted to hardscape, pool and water features, it took over 3 years to construct and would cost over $7,000,000 to replace today. Expansive gates open to a 30 car courtyard. Over 30,000 feet of stone in nearly 10,000 square feet of sumptuous living space. This includes 1,153 square feet of garage space, 521 sq. guest house. Estate is graced with 2.75 acres of views, all built with exquisite taste & attention to every detail for the most discerning eye. Luxurious, exquisite, master bedroom downstairs, there is over 600 feet of panoramic frontage spanning from the Conejo Mountains to Point Mugu State Park to the Pacific Ocean, including the striking views of the Channel Islands. Jet setters will appreciate the close proximity to the private Camarillo Airport which can be seen from the property just minutes away. This is one of the finest estates ever offered in Ventura County.

LIFESTYLE LETTER

FEBRUARY 2021 PUBLISHER

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

Random & Not So Random Thoughts

Tracy Marcynzsyn | Tracy.Marcynzsyn@LifestylePubs.com

YOU ARE READING THIS AT THE END OF JANUARY OR THE START OF FEBRU-

L AYO UT DESIGNER

ARY. It’s 2021 (whew—we made it!) and a nightmarish 2020 is hopefully in our rearview

Dana Rudolph

mirror and will not be coming back to haunt us. I am writing this on December 30, 2020,

AD DESIGNER

Miranda Williams

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

and praying that a much better 2021 is not just wishful thinking.

Kimberly Blaker, Alicia Doyle, Tracy Marcynzsyn, Kim Pagano

By February, the endless presidential campaign will have concluded with a new presi-

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

dent in the White House. As Americans, we will still be dealing with the pandemic and

Vincent Chavez

the health and economic consequences of a mismanaged response to that challenge. We owe the new administration our support and cooperation as individuals and as a community to do whatever is needed to finally halt the short- and long-term damage to our health and to our economy and just as importantly, our social fabric. Continued politicization of a deadly disease is self-defeating and just plain stupid. Now that I got all of that off my chest, let’s look at what members of our community have done to keep their torches burning in spite of all the restrictions. The arts community is a great example of creatives becoming even more creative. Pacific Festival Ballet could not stage their original live ballets or their annual production of “The Nutcracker.” Using all of their creative talent, they produced an original dance film, “A Holiday Angel.” In this we find a family celebrating a quarantined Christmas Eve. By the finale they realize that

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

we are all one world as the voice of hope rings out through the night. Likewise, 5-Star

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

Theatricals produced “drive-in” events and New West Symphony produced online events

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

along with a Holocaust Remembrance Concert comprising a series of programs dedi-

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

cated to Holocaust Remembrance Day commemorating Jewish and non-Jewish victims.

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Finally, many thanks to all of our educators, parents and children in our community’s public and private schools. They have persevered through what must feel like an endless struggle to maintain the learning excellence our community deserves. As you read this, vaccines will just be getting started, so all of the precautions we have

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Ben Malkin, Publisher ON THE COVER Georgian Dining Room at Griffin Living

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY GRIFFIN LIVING 8

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

Ben.Malkin@LifestylePubs.com Proverbs 3:5-6 Conejo Valley Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

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

VNSC Announces Expansion of Staff and Healthcare Vascular Neurology of Southern California is always looking services to a broad range of patients. Our practice has for ways to improve and diversify neurological healthcare. extensive reach in the Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, In order to accomplish this endeavor Dr. Taqi has expanded with clinic locations in Thousand Oaks, West Hills, and his team by adding three physicians and a nurse Antelope Valley. We look forward to dedicating our efforts practitioner. With the additional staff at VNSC we are to help you and your family! Dr. M. Asif Taqi is an interventional The cutting-edge neurovascular able to provide comprehensive and targeted neurological and stroke neurologist who is an treatment is the only device cleared expert for treatment of brain by the FDA in a new category of aneurysms and blockages in brain temporary coil embolization assist devices for the treatment of brain and neck blood vesselsM. Asif Taqi, MD, FAHA aneurysms. For over decade, Dr. Taqi is a triple-board certified interventional and stroke neurologist. He is an expert in aawide range of Dr. Taqi has participated in national He did his initial research fellowship at procedures and treatments such as stroke treatment, brain aneurysm and embolization, carotid and intracranial international trials and been a Brown University in Rhode Island andand angioplasty, tumor embolization, kyphoplasty and brain stent placement AVM’s. Dr. Taqi’s primary investigator forgreatest several skill new went on to complete set his involves Neurology his ability to connect with his patients on a personal level as he is acutely aware of the physical technologies pertaining to stroke and residency training at the University of and emotional process healthcare can be. brain aneurysms. He has published Tennessee. He further completed a over 50 articles, abstracts and book clinical fellowship in Neurocritical Care, chapters on vascular diseases of Vascular Neurology, and Endovascular the brain. Raghav Aachi, MD, MS Surgical NeuroradiologyVenkat at Medical College of Wisconsin inDr. 2012 Dr. Taqi enjoys his personal life Aachi is a board-certified neurologist with additional specialization in vascular neurology. and professional life equally. He He completed medical school and training at Gandhi Medical College in India before coming is dedicated to providing excellent Dr. Taqi runs stroke programs at Los to the United States to earn a master’s degree in biological sciences Portland State and from comprehensive care University to his Robles Regional Medical Center and in Oregon. patients in this region. West Hills Hospital and Medical Center. He is a senior

M. Asif Taqi, MD. FAHA

member of the Society of NeuroInterventional Surgery (SNIS), Triple board certified in Neurology, Vascular neurology a fellow of the American Heart Association (FAHA) and a and Critical care neurology member of the Society of Vascular and Intervention Emanuela Sofroni, MD Recipient of the Outstanding Scholar Award for his Neurology (SVIN). achievements in clinical research Dr. Sofroni is a board-certified neurologist who specialized in Clinical Neurophysiology. Recipient of 40 under 40 award (EEGs) for Conejo for his She proficient at performing and analyzing electroencephalograms andValley electromyoIn 2019 Dr. Taqi treated theisfirst brain aneurysm patient in contribution to stroke care the USA with the minimally embolization gramsinvasive (EMGs).Comaneci Dr. Sofroni knew she wanted to be a doctor before she was even a teenager when assist device. she saw neuroscience save her father’s life through brain surgery.

Procedures Performed

•Vertebral Artery Stent and Angioplasty •Brain Aneurysm Embolization •Intracranial Stent and Angioplasty •Stroke Thrombectomy Hisham Salahuddin, MD •WADA Testing •AVM Embolization A board-certified in neuro-endovascular treatments. Dr. Salahuddin •Kyphoplasty •Tumor Embolizationneurologist specializing skill Angioplasty in treating •acute ischemic stroke, carotid stenosis, intracranial Embolization for Epistaxis •demonstrates Internal Carotidgreat Stent and and other malformations. He has shown leadership skills throughout his career •aneurysms Brachiocephalic and vascular Subclavian

Artery and of Angioplasty and is theStent Director the Comprehensive Stroke Program as Antelope Valley Hospital.

Conditions Treated

•Blockages in the brain and neck vessels (Carotid stenosis/vertebral stenosis and Intracranial stenosis) Kelsey Lindsey, NP • Stroke Ms. Lindsey is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner at VNSC. She began her medical career in 2010 by •Brain working bedside in theAneurysm intensive care unit. Ms. Lindsey became board certified by the American Association • Brain Atrio Venous Malformations (AVM) of Nurse Practitioners in 2019. She also has extensive experience working at a level two trauma center and • Compression fracture of a vertebral body certified stroke center which makes her an ideal health care provider for this patient population. •Headache West Hills Hospital & Medical Center

Los Robles Regional Medical Center 227 W. Janss Rd, Suite 125 Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 (805) 242-4884

www.vnsc.org

7230 Medical Center Dr, Suite 600 West Hills, CA 91307 (805) 242-4884

INSIDE THE ISSUE FEBRUARY 2021

FEATURES 24 Heart Matters What You Should Know About Heart Health

30 Celebrating Trailblazers Black History Month Spotlights Heroes

36 Griffin Living Home Is Where the Heart Is

36 24

50 Thousand Oaks Strong Community Spirit Alive & Well

DEPARTMENTS 8

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Giving Back

42 Trend Setter 46 Local’s Choice 50 City Scene 54 Parting Thoughts

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

GOOD TIMES

Lights, Action and Camera! Safe Passage Heals Celebrates 20 Years Safe Passage Heals Founder and CEO Trish Steele emceed the black tie gala 20th Anniversary celebration, featuring an al fresco dinner and empowerment fashion show with dresses donated by Macy’s at a private estate in Dos Vientos Ranch. Hosted by Rick and Nadya Roussin and daughters Leilah and Neelah Shaikh, the event gathered organization supporters and sponsors. PHOTOGRAPHY BY VINCENT CHAVEZ

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

“Start with a Sofa

...end with a room” - Paul Trent Owner/Designer, The Sofa Guy

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AROUND TOWN

60 YEARS OF LOVE, CARE & HOPE

During the Covid pandemic, Art Trek, a non-

its 60th anniversary of providing love, care and

profit arts organization whose mission is to

hope for individuals with intellectual/develop-

bring quality art experiences into the classroom

mental disabilities and their families. Founding

and community, has pivoted to support commu-

mother Rachel Keith reflects on the previous six

nity needs. In alignment with their commitment

decades as the nonprofit formed and grew to

to provide services to underserved and needy

create an environment of love, care and hope

populations, senior programs, social service

for so many. It all began when Rachel chose to

programs and educators in professional train-

forge a new path for her son, Ronnie, who was

ing workshops, Art Trek’s staff, public partici-

born with Down syndrome. Believing the “radi-

pants, volunteers and teachers recognize how

cal idea” that her son did not need to be institu-

engagement can positively affect the lives of

tionalized or hidden away from society, Rachel

the participants. In partnership with CVUSD,

and a small coalition of like-minded mothers

CRPD and Red Cross, Art Trek supports Safe

started an informal school for children with

Passage families with daily distribution of

Down syndrome. By 1961, as the culture and

essentials: masks, diapers, wipes, food, formula,

societal norms evolved, the founding mothers,

and twice weekly Little Art Bags for youth.

with the help of the Pasadena Civitan Club, cre-

Volunteers have sewn 150 surgical caps for First

ated an official school for students with Down

Responders and help make 400 sandwiches

syndrome. Incorporated as a nonprofit in 1961,

for Safe Passage families every Saturday. Their

Villa Esperanza continues the legacy of innova-

Zoom art classes also provide enrichment for

tion that Rachel inspired. Their Thousand Oaks

schools and groups. ArtTrek.org

office is located at Community Conscience Human Services Center, 80 E. Hillcrest Drive, Suite 206. Their virtual fundraiser takes place Feb. 27: VillaEsperanzaServices.org.

CELEBRATING SAFE PASSAGE

CASA PACIFICA HOLIDAY MIRACLE Casa Pacifica Centers for Children and Families received a check for $10,000 from the Gene Haas Foundation to provide funding for gifts for children and families that Casa Pacifica

Safe Passage Heals celebrated 20 years of suc-

serves. Casa Pacifica serves over 400 children,

cess in providing hundreds of women and children

youth and their families every day through

with safe passage from domestic abuse to a flour-

their residential and community-based ser-

ishing life. Founder and CEO Trish Steele emceed

vices. Services include providing presents and

the black tie gala event, featuring an al fresco din-

family baskets during the holidays. “Because

ner and empowerment fashion show with dresses

of COVID-19 related challenges, many of the

donated by Macy’s at a private estate in Dos

businesses we rely on to help us provide gifts

Vientos Ranch. Hosted by Rick and Nadya Roussin

are working remotely so they were unable

and daughters Leilah and Neelah Shaikh, the event

to participate in the same way they normally

gathered organization supporters and sponsors,

do,” said Casa Pacifica’s Chief Development

including Roussin Capital Group, Diamond Realty,

Officer, Carrie Hughes. “After sending out our

USRowPro, Malibu Estate Concierge and Kim

urgent plea, I received a call from Peter Zierhut

Isaacson of Berkshire Hathaway Home Services,

of the Gene Haas Foundation and he simply

for an evening of celebration. Pacific Festival Ballet

asked, ‘How much do you need?’ Gene Haas

performed a live Christmas ballet, choreographed

has been an incredible supporter of ours for a

by the talented Kim Maselli, Artistic Director

very long time—their partnership has provided

of PFB, and Olivia Pucci and Abigail “Abby”

much-needed support for our programs every

Thompson entertained guests with songs, includ-

year, and they have certainly answered the call

ing, “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” Luisa

once again, enabling us to provide the holiday

Diaz also sponsored the “Runway of Hope” with

season all of our youth and families deserve.”

her Mi Amor Gala empowerment fashion show.

CasaPacifica.org

SafePassageHeals.org

MANY HANDS LIGHTEN THE LOAD

Villa Esperanza Services recently celebrated

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

CONTINUED >

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AROUND TOWN

PARAMOUNT RANCH REVIVAL The Santa Monica Mountains Fund, in cooperation with the National Park Service, recently launched “The Paramount Project,” a campaign to rebuild Paramount Ranch’s Western Town, which was destroyed by the Woolsey Fire. The fundraising event kicks off Feb. 13 with a movie screening at Paramount Ranch, an iconic location where hundreds of movies and TV shows have been filmed over the past century. Funds raised will benefit the $10 million restoration project being managed by NPS to build a second bridge to access the site, improving safety, and to restore the movie sets offering updated facilities to a modern movie industry. Recognized for stunning landscapes combined with movie history, Paramount Ranch is on the National Register of Historic Places. Movies and TV shows made at Paramount Ranch include “Marco Polo,” HBO’s “Westworld” and “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman.” Once complete, the ranch will offer a trip down memory lane into 100 years of movie history, an important community resource for weddings, festivals and other events as well as a modern facility for the next generation of movie makers. For details: SamoFund.org.

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle. com/ConejoValley using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think. 16

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

GIVING BACK

Lilly Rocha

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

G O R E D F O R P R O M O T E S

W O M E N

S E L F - C A R E

LILLY ROCHA WAS A HIGH ACHIEVER WHO THOUGHT LITTLE OF HER WORKAHOLIC SCHEDULE. “I kept two suitcases packed at all times, so I could just fly home, pick up a suitcase and leave right away,” she said.

age she had a heart attack. She also learned later that

One morning, while at home, Lilly woke up with severe

nearly everyone in her mom’s family had heart disease, was

jaw and chest pain and numbness on the left side of her

struggling with high cholesterol and high blood pressure,

body. Despite the discomfort, she decided to go to work.

and in one case, required bypass surgery.

When a coworker suggested she could be having a heart

Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women. It

attack and should go to a hospital, she didn’t believe him.

claims more women’s lives than all forms of cancer com-

A heart attack survivor himself, he didn’t take no for an

bined, according to a 2019 report from the American Heart

answer and drove her to the ER.

Association, “Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics,” pub-

Lilly, then 37, knew something was wrong but didn’t

lished in the journal Circulation (Jan. 31, 2019). Research

think a heart attack was possible and told her coworker to

shows heart attacks are on the rise in younger women and

simply drop her off.

new data from a study published in the American Heart

“I told him, ‘Don’t worry about me, because that’s what we

Association’s Circulation (Feb. 19, 2019) suggests younger

do as women,’” she said. “I kept downplaying my symptoms.”

generations of women, Gen Z and Millennials, are less likely

When Lilly finally saw a doctor a few hours later and

to be aware of their greatest health threat and know heart

learned how serious her condition was, she was shocked.

attack and stroke warning signs.

She spent a few days in the hospital and returned to work

“I didn’t have a clue what was going on,” Lilly said.

two weeks later, struggling to make sense of what hap-

“Looking back, all the symptoms were there. But you don’t

pened. It took two years for her to recover from the recur-

expect to have a heart attack at 37.”

rent angina and the emotional toll of her heart attack.

As an ambassador for the American Heart Association’s

Doctors still aren’t sure what caused Lilly to have a heart

Go Red for Women movement, Lilly shares her story to

attack, though they believe it’s likely a genetic link. Lilly’s

inspire women to take charge of their health and encourage

grandfather had died of a heart attack at age 37—the same

others to do the same.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

In celebration of Heart Month, Go Red for Women encourages women to take these heart-healthy steps: + BE AWARE. Starting at age 20, get screened for CVD risk factors. Know your numbers—the key

accelerate scientific discovery by contributing to

personal health numbers that help determine risk

health research through clinical trials, surveys,

for heart disease: total cholesterol, HDL (good)

focus groups and more.

cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and body mass index. Know your family history and talk to

+ GO RED ON WEAR RED DAY, FEB. 5. Wear red

your doctor about heart disease.

to take a stand against cardiovascular disease and spread the word.

+ LIVE WELL. Even modest lifestyle changes can lower risk by as much as 80%. Make living a

For over 17 years, Go Red for Women has been a

healthy lifestyle a priority by moving more, eating

trusted, passionate and relevant force for change to

smart and managing blood pressure. Track your

eradicate heart disease and stroke in women. It is

physical activity, diet and blood pressure through

committed to the health and well-being of women

Check. Change. Control.

at every life stage and to removing the barriers women face to living a full, healthy life.

+ MAKE AN IMPACT. More research is needed to find new ways to treat, beat and prevent heart disease in women. Participating in research has never been easier or more important. Research Goes Red puts women in the driver’s seat to

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

Learn more at GoRedForWomen.org.

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Dr. James McPherson

ARTICLE ALICIA DOYLE

Dr. James McPherson Champions H e a r t H e a lt h HEART DISEASE REMAINS THE LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH IN THE UNITED STATES—WITH MORE PEOPLE DYING OF HEART DISEASE AND STROKE THAN ALL FORMS OF CANCER COMBINED, WARNS DR. JAMES MCPHERSON, WHO PROVIDES STATE-OF-THE-ART CARE FOR PATIENTS AT CARDIOVASCULAR AND THORACIC SURGEONS OF VENTURA COUNTY. “Of cancers, the leading cause of cancer death is lung cancer,” explains Dr. McPherson, further emphasizing that there are many people walking around with heart and lung disease and they don’t know it. “The risk factors for both heart and lung disease are the same,” he notes, adding that the first symptom can be a major heart attack. Therefore, “it’s important to get a doctor who can examine you on an annual basis and order the appropriate tests. That way, patients can be alerted to small problems before they become bigger ones.” At Dr. McPherson’s practice—which specializes in early diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment of heart, lung and vascular disease—he performs all aspects of adult cardiothoracic surgery, from minimally invasive surgical treatments for lung cancer to open heart surgery, including coronary artery bypass graft surgery, aortic and mitral valve surgery, and transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Dr. McPherson is also skilled in traditional and minimally invasive surgical approaches, including robotic-assisted surgery for more precise results, less tissue damage, and faster recovery times.

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

Dr. James McPherson

When it comes to heart health, “the biggest myth

+ YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT!

is that because you feel fine, nothing could possibly

Try to cut down on fatty foods and red meat. Eat more

be wrong,” he says. However, “there is a reason that

fish, skinless chicken and salad.

hypertension is called the ‘silent killer.’ If you are in a high risk category, you could be carrying a briefcase

+ EXERCISE.

full of dynamite and not know it.”

The pandemic has made going to the gym impossi-

What makes a person high risk? According to Dr.

ble. You can still exercise at home. I advise my patients

McPherson, contributing factors can include obesity,

to walk 15 to 20 minutes in the morning and another 15

diabetes, cigarette smoking, a stressful job or lifestyle,

to 20 minutes in the afternoon. Increase by five min-

family history or lack of exercise.

utes each week.

“If you have any of these things, you should not assume that you don’t have heart disease unless a

+ BE A CHAMPION OF YOUR OWN HEALTH.

doctor tells you that you don’t based on an exam and

During your next trip to the drugstore or supermarket,

testing,” he stresses.

buy a blood pressure monitor and a notebook. Start

Another misconception is women don’t get heart disease—which is simply “wrong.”

taking your blood pressure at home and recording it in the notebook. That notebook is now your health

“Not only do women get heart disease, because their

journal. Write down new medications, side effects and

symptoms are often less straightforward, they are

appointments. Doctors take you more seriously when

at higher risk of dying from a heart attack,” Dr.

they see that you take your health seriously.

McPherson says. Fortunately, there are some ways that people can

+ FIND A DOCTOR.

keep their heart healthy. Dr. McPherson offers the fol-

Someone you trust and feel comfortable visiting and

lowing insight:

being honest with. An annual exam, including a physical, EKG, chest X-ray and blood tests, is a great investment in your long-term health. Discovering a problem early can be important in avoiding major surgery.

it’s important to get a doctor who can examine you on an annual basis and order the appropriate tests. That way, patients can be alerted to small problems before they become bigger ones.” CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

DR. JAMES MCPHERSON (CONTINUED)

Dr. James McPherson

In additional tips, Dr. McPherson recommends the following should be avoided to help maintain a healthy heart:

he emphasizes. Unfortunately, heart and lung disease does not take a break during the pandemic. “Getting the virus is bad enough. Those of us who did not get the virus have to deal with decreased

+ CIGARETTES.

incomes, difficulty running a business, being at home

Number one risk factor for heart disease and lung cancer.

and not having the outlet of our favorite bars or restaurants,” Dr. McPherson says.

+ EXCESSIVE FATTY FOOD INTAKE. The fat goes in through the mouth and ends up lining your arteries.

It all adds up to undue stress, he says. “After Hurricane Katrina, many people in Louisiana experienced an increase in heart disease, aortic dissections and stroke, all of which can be attributed

+ TOXIC PEOPLE.

to hypertension and stress. Underlying conditions

Stress is a very strong determinant of hypertension

increase your risk of a poor outcome if you contract

and heart disease. Take a good look at the people

the virus. Protect yourself by protecting your heart.”

around you. Spend more time with those who uplift you and less time with those who bring you down.

Above all, “be a champion of your own health—heart and lung disease are serious, but we can beat it. I am here to help.”

For people who think it’s too late to make their heart healthy, “I can tell you that it’s never too late to start investing in your health,” Dr. McPherson emphasizes.

Dr. McPherson is the Medical Director of Cardiovas-

“Most of my surgical patients have gone beyond the win-

cular and Thoracic Surgeons of Ventura County and

dow of prevention. I tell patients who have had surgery to

the Southern California Vein Center with locations at

think of today as the first day of the “second half” of your

1700 N. Rose Ave., Suite 420 in Oxnard; 805.988.2033

life. Most conditions can be controlled, if not reversed.

and 640 S. San Vicente Blvd., Suite 498, in Los

Partner with your doctor to get the results you want.”

Angeles; 323.480.0275. For more information, visit

In today’s challenging and uncertain times, “the pandemic has increased all of our stress levels,”

https://www.venturacountyheartsurgery.com/ or https://www.southerncaliforniaveincenter.com/.

b e a c h a m p i o n o f y o u r o w n h e a lt h — heart and lung disease are serious, b u t w e c a n b e at i t. I a m h e r e t o h e l p.”

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

GET YOUR BACK, GET YOUR BACK

Varicose veins affect millions of Americans and its not just a cosmetic issue. Varicose veins can be a part of a painful debilitating condition called venous insuff iciency.

SYM PTO M S OF VAR ICO SE VE I N S IN C LUDE: » Leg swelling » Aching, cramping and pain

Dr. James McPherson, with Southern California Vein Center, is a board certif ied Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeon who provides the latest minimally invasive techniques and treatment options that address both the cosmetic and medical issues associated with varicose veins. These procedures are performed in Dr. McPherson’s off ice in less than an hour requiring little to no downtime.

» Heaviness » Easy bruising and bleeding » Non-healing ulcers » Hyperpigmentation (darkening of skin) » Large, rope like veins

Treatment options include VenaCure EVLT, a minimally-invasive laser therapy for the treatment of large varicose veins with minimal scarring and a short recovery time and Varithena, an injectable foam non-surgical therapy.

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Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

L AK ER

YB RL

BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATES TRAILBLAZERS

During the following decades, change happened gradually. Conservative Southern leaders sought ways to deprive African Americans, creating laws to keep them from voting and legalizing segregation. The Ku Klux Klan took matters into its own hands, capturing and hanging 3,224 men, women and children, mostly black, from 1889 to 1918. ORGANIZING THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT In 1905, W.E.B. Du Bois wrote, “We claim for ourselves every single right that belongs to a freeborn American—political, civil, social; FOR NEARLY 250 YEARS, AMERICA HELD BLACK MEN,

and until we get these rights we will never cease to protest and

WOMEN AND CHILDREN AS SLAVES. Considered “property,”

assail the ears of America. The battle we wage is not for ourselves

they worked as servants and on plantations, not by choice and

but for all true Americans.”

for little compensation.

Out of his letter came a civil rights organization called the

Today, Black History Month acknowledges the history that con-

Niagara Movement. It lasted only five years, but it led to the

tributed to the persistent prejudice and injustice and celebrates

formation of the National Association for the Advancement of

African Americans who fought for freedom and civil rights.

Colored People (NAACP) in 1910. Around the mid-1900s, the pace of the civil rights movement

A Brief History

took off. In 1948, President Harry Truman created a Civil Rights

ABOLITION

Commission. He called for an end to school segregation and pro-

The legalized slave trade ended in 1808, but slaves continued to be

claimed a fair employment policy for federal workers. Over the next

smuggled into the United States and the millions already held in ser-

few years, state Supreme Courts heard school segregation cases.

vitude found no relief. A half-century later, most Northerners opposed

Not all were successful. But on May 17, 1954, the United States

the institution of slavery, but Southerners still relied on slaves to work

Supreme Court made a ruling. In Brown v. Board of Education of

their plantations. In 1860, Abraham Lincoln, who opposed expanding

Topeka, the Court ruled school segregation is unconstitutional.

slavery, was elected president despite opposition from the South. This

The next decade was turbulent. Many whites refused to accept

resulted in several southern states’ withdrawal from the union and

that black and white children would attend school together. There

their formation of the Confederate States of America.

were bus boycotts and other peaceful demonstrations by blacks

On April 12, 1861, the Civil War began. Although the war had many causes, in September 1862, Lincoln warned the Confederate states

and civil rights activists. There were also acts of violence by whites that favored segregation.

CONTINUED >

that all slaves would be declared free if the Confederates failed to return to the Union by January 1, 1863. When the date came, the Confederate States had not returned to the union and Lincoln immediately issued his Emancipation Proclamation. It declared all slaves held by the Confederates “shall be forever free of their servitude, and not again held as slaves.” Slaveholders released few slaves immediately, but two years later, the South surrendered, and the 13th Amendment was ratified, abolishing slavery. All slaves were finally set free. SLOW CHANGE Many whites were displeased with the end of slavery. Some even believed whites were God’s chosen people. In 1867, a group called the Ku Klux Klan was formed to intimidate black Americans. In 1868, the 14th Amendment was ratified, giving U.S. citizenship to blacks and guaranteeing equal protection under the law. And in 1870, the 15th Amendment granted the right to vote. President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Civil Rights Act in 1875, guaranteeing African Americans equal rights in public accommodations and jury duty. But the progress was short-lived. In 1883, the Supreme Court ruled the Act unconstitutional. CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

BLACK HISTORY MONTH (CONTINUED)

ROSA LEE PARKS (1913-2005) got arrested in 1955 after refusing to give up her bus seat to a white man. This led to the Montgomery bus boycott, which facilitated the national civil rights movement. In 1979, she won the Spingarn Medal for her courageous contribution. JAMES LEONARD FARMER (1920-99) founded the Congress of Then, in 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed a new Civil Rights Act that outlawed discrimination in voting and public

Racial Equality (CORE) in 1942. He and his organization favored nonviolent protests.

accommodations. It also required fair employment practices. In 1965, the Voting Rights Act was passed, barring the use of literacy

MALCOLM X (1925-65) became a Black Muslim minister after

and other tests as a requirement to vote.

he converted to Islam. In 1964, he formed the Organization of

Over the past half-century, African Americans have seen continued change and progress in the United States. Still, despite laws to

Afro-American Unity. He was assassinated in 1965, presumably by Black Muslims.

protect their rights, prejudice and discrimination endure. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. (1929-68) is one of America’s most noted civil rights leaders. His leadership included organizing the

Blazing the Trail Dedicated leaders challenged the system and led the way to

1955 bus boycott in Montgomery, Alabama. Over the years, he was arrested 30 times for his peaceful civil rights activities. King’s extraordinary leadership led to the Civil Rights Act of 1965. He was

reform during the past 200 years. We celebrate a few of them here:

assassinated in 1968.

SOJOURNER TRUTH (1797?-1883) escaped slavery and became a

JOHN LEWIS (1940-2020) was an American politician, statesman

traveling preacher. A talented orator, in 1843, she became the first

and civil rights activist and leader who served in the United States

black woman to speak out against slavery.

House of Representatives from 1987 until his death in 2020. He was the chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee

HARRIET TUBMAN (1820-1913) escaped slavery in 1849. She

from 1963 to 1966. Lewis was one of the “Big Six” leaders of groups

helped free more than 300 slaves through the Underground

who organized the 1963 March on Washington. He fulfilled many key

Railroad and served as a spy and a nurse during the Civil War.

roles in the civil rights movement and its actions to end legalized

Later she helped raise funds for African American schools and

racial segregation in the United States.

advocated for women’s rights. ANDREW YOUNG (1932) assisted in drafting the Civil Rights Act of BOOKER T. WASHINGTON (1856-1915) headed and expanded

1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. He also served as the first

the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, a college for black students.

African American U.S. ambassador to the United Nations.

He believed that black economic independence was necessary to gain social equality. His autobiography, Up from Slavery, was published in 1901.

W.E.B. DU BOIS (1868-1963) founded the NAACP. His goals

efforts have made an impact—just as the collective contributions of

included ending segregation and the widespread lynching that was

people today can enact change for tomorrow.

taking place in the United States. He also visualized world change and authored many works, including Black Reconstruction (1935).

Kimberly Blaker is founder and director of KB Creative Digital Services, an internet marketing agency, at kbcreativedigital.com.

THURGOOD MARSHALL (1908-93) was the first black United States Supreme Court judge. Before taking the seat, he served as director of the NAACP’s Legal Defense and Education Fund. Marshall appeared before the Supreme Court in Brown v. Board of Education and other monumental civil rights cases.

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

While each of these brave individuals played a crucial role in the movement, they couldn’t have done it alone. Millions of Americans throughout history have taken part in the cause. Their cumulative efforts have made an impact—just as the collective contributions of people today can enact change for tomorrow.

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

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Griffin Living Builds Thriving Senior Communities

ARTICLE ALICIA DOYLE

THE CONVERSATION STARTS WITH A FAMILIAR BUT DIFFI-

“Griffin Living starts with the customer and works backwards,”

CULT TOPIC: WHERE WILL MY PARENTS GO WHEN THEY NEED

says Paul E. Griffin III, President and CEO of Griffin Living. Griffin

MORE HELP THAN THEY CAN GET AT HOME? Where will I go

Living has nine active projects across the country, including two

when I reach that point? In the past, senior housing has been a last

local developments: Varenita Westlake and Varenita Simi Valley.

resort—resisted until absolutely necessary. Griffin Living is changing

Both include a mix of assisted-living and memory-care units.

the landscape of senior housing by providing places for seniors to

As a fifth-generation real estate developer, Griffin has been in

thrive in some of their best years—places with luxurious amenities

the business for three decades and developed $4 billion in projects.

where residents want to live and their families want to visit.

His senior living business has two components: developing and

In the place of dormitories and hospital-style rooms, Griffin

managing the communities and then providing care to residents.

Living builds state-of-the-art apartments with spacious bath-

“There is enormous unmet demand in the senior market,” empha-

rooms, living rooms, kitchens with modern appliances, and in-unit

sizes Griffin, adding that Baby Boomers are the biggest generation

washers and dryers.

of aging Americans yet, with the oldest of them turning 75 this year.

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

“What is currently offered for them is not the level of quality that seniors want for themselves or that their loved ones want for them,” Griffin says. “Griffin Living is meeting those needs by developing senior housing with resort-style amenities and a range of onsite activities that encourage an active lifestyle.” LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION For a senior living development to thrive, the area needs families with aging parents to be close by. These seniors and their middle-aged children usually live in highly developed areas, which are the hardest places to get new projects approved. That’s part of what makes Griffin Living unique. “Griffin Living specializes in finding these locations, identifying suitable properties and working with local residents and stakeholders to solve all of the problems raised by development,” Griffin explains. Griffin Living also gets projects approved where other developers can’t, like with Varenita Westlake. “We see the development through and solve new problems that arise,” Griffin says. “People trust us and welcome us back to their communities for further development.”

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

GRIFFIN LIVING (CONTINUED) AN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE Griffin Living makes it a priority to create energy in their senior housing communities. “We offer multiple activities going on in the building at any given time, which gives our residents an engaged and active lifestyle,” Griffin says. Residents can do everything from fitness classes in state-of-theart studios to watching cooking demonstrations, to listening to professional musicians or lectures. Visitors are always welcome to join. “Even if they do not participate in every event, being around activities happening is stimulating and social,” Griffin notes. Residents especially love the dining options at Griffin Living. “These are not dining commons, but restaurants with menus that vary every night. Residents eat whenever they want, at mealtimes in the dining room or any time at the bistro bar,” Griffin explains. “There are also themed dinners: one night there might be BBQ, the next wood-fired pizzas or carving stations. Sunday brunch with families is particularly popular, which features omelets and waffle stations.” SAFETY DURING THE PANDEMIC As people continue to navigate their lives during today’s challenging and uncertain times, Griffin Living is following CDC guidelines, practicing social distancing and wearing masks. Additionally, Griffin Living has invested $2 million per project to filter the air to N-95 mask standards. “These were underway before COVID19, but we appreciate having them all the more now,” says Griffin, adding that there are four complete air changes in apartment units every hour, ensuring that the air in the whole building is fresh, all the time. In other safety measures, “we require everyone who enters the building to have a temperature check at contactless stations,” Griffin says. Also, “we have installed powerful UV lights to disinfect all hightouch surfaces.” OFFSETTING ISOLATION With folks living at senior communities more isolated than ever, Griffin Living helps residents cope by making activities available via CCTV so that they can still participate without coming in person. “Family members are allowed to visit if they have been COVID tested and observing strict social distancing,” Griffin explains. The staff at Griffin Living have also been observing social distancing and forgoing seeing their own extended families to minimize chances of exposure. “We appreciate the sacrifice they are making to keep our residents safe,” says Griffin. Above all, “we believe that we are redefining the landscape of senior living,” Griffin adds. “Our communities are rooted in the honor and dignity of aging, and we prioritize features and amenities that cater to residents’ independent, active and vibrant lifestyles.” Varenita of Simi Valley is located at 3921 Cochran Street in Simi Valley; Varenita of Westlake is located at 95 Duesenberg Drive in Westlake Village. For more information about Griffin Living, call 818.965.7400 or visit GriffinLiving.com. 38

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

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TREND SETTER

ARTICLE KIMBERLY BLAKER

FUN VALENTINE'S DAY PARTIES

FOR KIDS – AT SCHOOL OR HOME WHETHER YOU’RE HELPING WITH YOUR CHILD’S

impression within the heart-shaped area. Alternate col-

VALENTINE’S DAY PARTY AT SCHOOL OR PLAN-

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NING ONE AT HOME, THERE ARE SO MANY FUN,

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CREATIVE WAYS TO KEEP KIDS BUSY AND MAKE

have a colorful heart image underneath.

THEIR PARTY A BLAST. Try some of these ideas for virtual or in-person activities kids are sure to love.

Valentine candle holder. Give each child a glass jar. Have them start by cutting red, white and pink tissue paper into small hearts or other shapes. Using a mixture of

CRAFTS Heart suncatcher. Place a sheet of wax paper on the table and offer red, pink and white tissue paper for kids to

one part flour to two parts water and a paintbrush, paste the tissue shapes onto the jar overlapping each other until the jar is completely covered.

cut into squares or other shapes. Next, lay a tissue square on the wax paper and brush it with liquid starch. Continue

Musical hearts. This game is played similar to musical

lage. When the collage is dry, carefully peel the tissue

chairs. Cut out enough hearts for the number of players.

away from the wax paper. Cut the collage into a big heart.

On each heart, write an action such as “rub your belly,”

Then put a single hole punch in the heart and thread a

“dance” and “pretend you’re an elephant.” When the

piece of yarn or ribbon through it to hang it.

music stops, everyone must act out the heart they landed

Heart structures. Provide each child a supply of

on. Adapt for a virtual setting by numbering the hearts and

gummy hearts and toothpicks, and let their creativity take

asking kids to pick a number when the music stops. They

over. They can build a house, sphere, rocket, airplane, or

can then act out the action assigned to each number.

whatever their imagination desires.

GAMES

overlapping the pieces of tissue to create an 8” x 8” col-

Pin the heart on the Tin Man. Draw the Tin Man on a

Finger paint Valentine. Fold a piece of paper in half

large sheet of poster board, then cut it out. Have each kid

and cut out a large heart. Next, place the paper with the

cut out a heart from construction paper. Then blindfold

big heart-shaped hole on top of another piece of paper.

and spin each child around and have them try to place the

Dip a thumb or finger into the paint and make a finger

heart on the Tin Man’s chest.

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

Candy heart bingo. Buy a Valentine’s Day bingo game available through many online retailers. Then use candy hearts for the markers. Provide printable bingo cards for virtual gatherings. Valentine’s Day word find. Have each kid write “Valentine’s Day Cupid” on a sheet of paper. Then have them write down as many words as they can make from it. Offer prizes for the most words, longest word, and the most rhyming words.

+ Junie B. Jones and the Mushy Gushy Valentime, Barbara Park and Denise Brunkas, ages 6-9 + Happy Love Day, Daniel Tiger! Becky Friedman and Jason Fruchter, ages 3-7 + Thomas in Town: Valentine’s Day in Vicarstown, Rev. W. Awdry, ages 3-7 + Dumpy’s Valentine, Julie Andrews Edwards and Emma Walton Hamilton, ages 4-7 + Happy Valentine’s Day, Mouse, Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond, ages 4-8

BOOKS What would Valentine’s Day be without a special Valentine’s story or two? Read aloud to younger kids. If they’re readers, have each kid take a turn reading a page.

+ Ruby Valentine and the Sweet Surprise, Laurie B. Friedman and Lynne Avril, Agesa5-9 + Valentine Hearts: Holiday Poetry, Lee Bennett Hopkins, ages 4-8

Classic reads include the following: + Happy Valentine’s Day, Charlie Brown, Charles M. Schulz, ages 5-7 + Amelia Bedelia’s First Valentine, Herman Parish and Lynne Avril, ages 4-8

Kimberly Blaker is the founder and director of KB Creative Digital Services, an internet marketing agency, at kbcreativedigital.com.

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

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LOCAL’S CHOICE

Stowell Learning Center: Helping Students Thrive Despite the Pandemic

“IS THIS WHAT SCHOOL IS SUPPOSED TO BE LIKE?”

“They want clear and simple, direct answers,” she says,

A FOURTH GRADER AT STOWELL LEARNING CENTER

noting that so often parents know that everything isn’t

IN THOUSAND OAKS RECENTLY EXCLAIMED.

quite as it should be, but they can’t identify exactly what’s

After working for just a few weeks with Stowell Learning Center, the student’s entire world started to transform and she began to realize that school should be so much easier than it had been. Her experiences before and after training were dramatically different.

happening or what to do about it. Schools and traditional tutoring don’t seem to help in clarifying the picture. “At Stowell Learning Center, we take a completely different approach,” says Diep. The company builds underlying skills, or “the skills behind the skill.” For instance, the “skill” of reading is actually dependent

Center Director Sharon Diep recently identified one

on a dozen or more other skills that have to be in place

of the key ingredients that parents are looking for when

in order for reading to make sense. Once those skills are

“wrestling” with bright kids who are struggling in school.

strong and efficient, reading becomes a natural process.

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

“The best news,” Diep reports, “is that those skills can be developed to make permanent changes.”

2. They miss information when listening or get very tired when listening. Auditory processing is a key to good listening. How the brain perceives and processes the infor-

HOW DOES A PARENT KNOW WHEN THE ANSWER IS

mation that comes in through the ears has a huge impact

WEAK UNDERLYING SKILLS?

on academic and social skills.

This pandemic has heightened the amount of attention

It’s assumed when a parent or teacher says something

students get from their parents. Some parents have been

that it is understood by the student. But one second grader

shocked to find how hard school really is for their kids.

came home and told his mom that his teacher had taught about “the bowels” that day. When mom asked for clarifica-

HERE ARE FIVE SIGNS THAT YOUR CHILD MAY NEED

tion about these “bowels,” the boy said, “You know, a, e, i, o,

SOME SKILL DEVELOPMENT:

u, and sometimes y.”

1. They have slow or poor reading. While your child

Now, that’s a cute story, but if it happens regularly, it may

may be able to get through some reading, it is harder and

indicate a problem with listening, or auditory processing, skills.

takes them longer than their peers. They may make many mistakes when reading.

3. They can’t remember or understand what they read. Both memory and comprehension are skills that can be strengthened and developed. These skills are vital to success with higher subject levels. It’s sometimes tricky to tell the difference between a reading problem and a memory or comprehension challenge. With the right measurement tools, it can be done. 4. They can’t “get it together” enough to finish assignments and get them turned in. This one really drives parents crazy! “He’s just not organized” may be covering up inefficient executive function skills. 5. They are working too hard or too long for the grades they get. They may finish their work and get it turned in, but it takes much longer than the other students. Teachers may accept the longer working time and tell parents not to worry because the work is correct. But that need for extra time will impact performance on tests and usually means there are some missing or inefficient skills keeping the student from working as efficiently as expected. Stowell Learning Center Thousand Oaks Director Sharon Diep summed it up this way: “We help students by making sure that all the skills they need for success are strong, efficient and permanent. Our graduates have gone from struggling, even failing grades, to academic and life successes that would have been impossible without the skills they gained here.” That little girl who finally understood how school is supposed to be is now on a road to lifelong success. Learn more at StowellCenter.com.

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ARTICLE TRACY MARCYNZSYN

CITY SCENE

C O M M U N I T Y S PI R I T ALIVE & WELL: M AYO R A D D R E S S E S S T A T E O F T H E C I T Y O F T H O U S A N D OA K S 50

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

KEYNOTE SPEAKER MAYOR AL ADAM PRAISED RESIDENTS FOR THEIR RESILIENCE AND COMMUNITY SPIRIT DURING THE 2020 VIRTUAL STATE OF THE CITY THOUSAND OAKS ADDRESS PRESENTED BY THE CITY OF THOUSAND OAKS AND THE GREATER CONEJO VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. “I am honored to be here with you today and to celebrate a year of achievements for the city of Thousand Oaks—and what a year it has been!” said Adam, broadcasting virtually from the Bank of America Performing Arts Center. “2020 has demanded so much from every one of us. The people of Thousand Oaks are not strangers to difficult and challenging times and we’ve risen time and time again to every call for help, every challenge ahead of us and have answered with strength and dignity.” Adam thanked the County of Ventura for providing guidance and leadership in its response to the pandemic, the City Council staff for working together to bring assistance and relief to the community, his family for serving as his virtual film crew and the thousands of volunteers who mobilized to serve those in need. “This community has handled the pandemic with incredible grace and dignity,” noted Adam, the city’s 56th mayor. “Thousands of volunteers activated immediately to deliver meals, donate funds, make masks for health care workers and more. The outpouring of support and spirt of goodwill was overwhelming and the city was responsive to the needs of the community from the outset.” As the pandemic began to impact the community, the City Council approved a measure to expand delivery hours from grocery stores, helped restaurants provide outdoor dining and approved $345,000 in CARES funding for $10,000 small business grants. Expanding safe access for customers and helping keep small businesses operational were key goals, Adam said, adding that ensuring housing stability became another top priority in 2020. The Council approved a $1 million rental assistance program, providing two months of rental relief for Thousand Oaks families impacted by the pandemic. “It’s critical we do all we can to protect that,” especially now, “when our home has become everything—an office, a classroom, a daycare,” Adam said. Despite the many challenges presented by Covid-19, Adam highlighted several positive ways 2020 has enriched the community.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

CITY SCENE (CONTINUED)

“The pandemic created the opportunity for City Hall to pivot to a business model that focused more on virtual services,” including the internet, Zoom and even the telephone, explained Adam. “Staff leveraged technology and tools to create a customer-focused environment, and it’s now easier than ever to find property information, complete permit applications and other commonly needed services without a trip to City Hall,” he added. Providing some lighthearted comic relief, Adam shared clips of the many “bloopers” made during the filming of his frequent community updates. “Making TV magic isn’t always easy!” joked Adam, adding, “a good laugh can make any situation lighter.” A good book is another great way to ease stress and relax, Adam noted, pointing to the efforts of the Thousand Oaks library staff to ensure library access during these challenging times by being among the first in the county to add a curbside pickup service for patrons. Adam also gave a shout out to the Public Works Department, whose staff works around the clock to improve city infrastructure, installing 46 miles of new asphalt around the city, enhancing crosswalks on Thousand Oaks Blvd., adding 22 new trees, widening sidewalks, and more. “I’m looking forward to the future of this area,” said Adam, noting the general plan update to 2045. “It’s critical we develop a guide to growth with the input and vision of our residents,” said Adam, encouraging everyone to get involved with setting the tone of the city’s growth and development. “Public participation is the heartbeat of this document,” said Adam, adding that the plan addresses important issues, such as transportation, access

as does another development at 299 Thousand Oaks Blvd., which

to arts and culture, infrastructure, open space and

will include housing and retail as well as rooftop gardens and din-

community and residential projects.

ing and a central courtyard.

Adam called the city’s first mixed-use project,

These projects will bring much-needed housing to the community,

1710 on the Blvd, “a shiny example of unique

which Adam says has developed into a biotech hub that could rival

and beautiful ways we can continue to add the

any in the country. With companies like Westlake Bio Partners, Atara

needed residential and retail space.”

and Amgen bringing millions of dollars to the industry and to the city,

With residential units, retail and restaurants, the project reflects sustainable growth,

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

it’s “critical to meet the demands of this growing sector,” including providing new restaurants, hotels and retail space.

Thinking About Divorce... Know Your Options True quality of life, said Adams, requires three key ingredients: environment, jobs and housing. “When in balance, the vast majority of residents can live close to their jobs and enjoy the natural beauty of their surroundings,” however, too many residents are commuting long distances to jobs and are unable to find entry-level housing. The current imbalance of housing and jobs causes extreme traffic that reduces quality of life and has a dramatic impact on the environment, noted Adam. Currently, Thousand Oaks is “anemic in entry-level and workforce housing,” said Adam, noting the importance of establishing housing “stepping stones.” “Housing is critical to maintaining the high quality of life we’ve come to enjoy,” he said, calling for “balanced growth along the 101 corridor scaled for our City of Thousand Oaks.”

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Nicole Oden

“Charting a course requires creativity, an open mind, respect for the past and an eye for the future. We can work together to keep everything that is unique and special about our city while working toward adding affordable housing and adaptable mixed-use structures,” he said. “We’ve done an amazing job

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building this place!” he noted, pointing to the city’s more than

Over 25 years of experience in

15,000 acres of open space, 60 parks, excellent law enforce-

successfully resolving family law disputes.

ment, high quality municipal services and infrastructure, stellar arts community, and 94% good or very good quality of life rating. In a call to action for the new year, Adam charged, “We’re in the midst of a time of great opportunity at a critical juncture as a community.” Thanks to the care, flexibility and kindness of

Divorce is not a one-size fits all process. Zonder Family Law Group will help you decide whether litigation,

the community as we support each other, “we will come out

meditation or Collaborative Divorce

stronger and as resilient as ever. I look forward to the decisions

best serves your needs.

and progress we will make together in the coming years.” California Lutheran University President Dr. Lori Varlotta kicked off the virtual address expressing her gratitude for this welcoming community. Hosted by Tom Cohen, Board Chair of the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce, the event

Your case is unique. You deserve to be represented by a law firm that respects your individual needs, goals and values.

was sponsored by several area businesses. Top sponsors include Conejo Valley Tourism Improvement District, Newbury Disposal Company and Harrison Industries, and Athens Thousand Oaks Sustainability Center; Platinum sponsor Waste Management; and Gold sponsors Kaiser Permanente, SCE, Warner Pacific, California Commercial Investment Group, 1710 on the Blvd., and Townplace Suites Marriot Thousand Oaks. CLU Senior Music Major Izzy Stewart sang the national anthem, and local businesses donated items for “Broadcast Boxes” mailed to viewers prior to the event. Curated boxes included meringues from Chocolatine French Café, caramel popcorn from Celebrate Sweetly, a coaster for a free glass of wine at Sunland Vintage Winery and more.

CityLifestyle.com/ConejoValley

PARTING THOUGHTS ARTICLE KIM PAGANO

Heartfelt Advice for Health I WANT TO SHARE ABOUT HEART HEALTH—WHEN YOU’RE YOUNG, IT’S NOT SOMETHING YOU HEAR A LOT ABOUT. Here’s my story. Many years ago, my dad had to have a triple bypass. My parents were going through a divorce, so I was very involved with his care. Watching him go through that was incredibly tough, although after surgery, I remember asking how he was feeling and his response: “I’m never going to golf again.” “Why not?” I asked. “Because I couldn’t before!” He always had a sense of humor. The doctors never talked to my dad about heart disease running in the family. Thank God, my dad is 88 now—I’m so blessed to still have him. Just five years ago, I lost my beautiful mother to heart disease. She had just been to the heart doctor and did everything that she thought she needed to do, but in reality, there was so much more that she wasn’t told. After she passed, I wanted to help others. I reached out to the American Heart Association—what an amazing organization! I learned that heart disease is the No. 1 killer. Most women are taking care of everyone else and they barely make time for themselves. May I remind you there are lots of ways to take care of our hearts, for instance, avoid eating lots of red meat, sugar and butter. When a guest on my radio show, cardiologist Dr. Shah advised me to get checked, I added it to my to-do list—thank God I did! They found that I had a blockage, and that day, I changed my diet and began exercising daily. Now that I have the knowledge, I’m going to use it. I am forever grateful that I have time to correct and work on my heart health, because I love my life. Please make time to check out your heart. It’s so important! Tune into the brighter side of life with Kim Pagano Saturday, 7 to 8 a.m. on KVTA.com or subscribe to her podcasts on iHeartRadio and iTunes.

Conejo Valley Lifestyle | February 2021

LOOKING FOR A SECOND OPINION ON YOUR CURRENT INVESTMENT STRATEGY?

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