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Home / 2025 / September

11:41 pm
Health • Wellness

K Glow Studio

5162 Kanan Rd, Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Tel: (818) 724-7972| kglow.studio
Hours: By Appointment Only

Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Experience timeless Korean rituals designed to relax your body, refresh your mind, and reveal radiant skin.

CLICK HERE: Learn More About Glow Studio

Written By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Photography By Provided

This holiday season, gift yourself the luxury of a personalized spa treatment at K Glow Studio. The Agoura Hills traditional Korean spa aims to help clients emerge relaxed and renewed, so they look and feel their very best.

Established by Licensed Cosmetologist Jean Farchi and husband, Aviv, K Glow Studio offers an array of services to bring out your natural glow and inner radiance. As you enter the tranquil space, you’ll be instantly entranced by the sparkling clean and serene environment. Jean and her talented staff take pride in sharing traditional Korean rituals with clients of all ages in a beautiful, private setting.

Here, Jean shares a little about what makes K Glow Studio so special.

Q: What services do you offer?

A: We specialize in traditional Korean treatments designed to relax your body, refresh your mind and reveal radiant skin. Our services include body scrubs, head scrubs, facials, dermaplaning, hair loss prevention, waxing, lash and brow lifting and shaping, and more.

Q: What is unique about K Glow Studio?

A: Sharing timeless Korean rituals in a private, clean and hygienic environment personalized for each client’s needs makes our studio stand out.

Q: What do clients enjoy most about K Glow Studio?

A: We have many 5-star reviews from clients, who become regulars once they experience our soothing, effective treatments. Clients rave about our professional, talented staff; our immaculately clean space; and our top-quality natural products.

Q: Are you offering any reader specials?

A: When clients book select services online, we are offering a special discount of 20% off your first visit. We also offer gift cards that can be purchased for family and friends.

Sidebar
K Glow Studio Services

Korean Body Scrub: Reveal softer skin, a lighter body and a clearer mind

Korean Head Spa: Experience deep scalp care that promotes healthy hair and total relaxation

Korean Body Ritual: Release what no longer serves you; reveal smooth, glowing skin

Korean Exfoliating Body Scrub: Includes facial and hair

Korean Body Detox Full Package: Korean body scrub + detox body mask + 24k gold facial mask with full-body wrapping
Head Spa Ritual: A deeply relaxing Aura Du ritual with a warm mist herbal touch
K-Beauty Skincare Ritual: Deep cleansing, layered hydration and skin barrier restoration the Korean way
Dermaplaning
Microchannel Infusion with PDRN Ampoule
K Special Mask
Women’s Waxing
Lash and Brow

All-Inclusive Signature Package: Enjoy 12 sessions of your choice
• Korean body scrub ($175)
• Head spa with ampoule ($175)
• K special facial ($150)
• Microchannel infusion ($200)

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

6:05 pm
Food • Beverage Publisher Letters

Publishers Letter

Ben Malkin & Robin Chesler

Why not? Who knows what tomorrow may bring? If the food is good, the style of cuisine is to your liking, and the wine and libation list is reasonably priced, then there is no better time to support your local restaurant, wine bar, or brew pub. As we emerged from the dark days of 2020 to 2021, the quality and service in restaurants have returned to whatever was “normal” for those that survived the pandemic (it wasn’t easy!).

While prices are higher due to inflation, the smart customer- and community-focused restaurants have kept the tab at the end of a date night for two somewhat under control. A creative way of doing that has been to increase the size of a portion so that their patrons can share. Since Robin is an expert at “sharing,” this has made her very happy. Besides… even I am willing to share an 18-oz Kansas City Strip Steak on the menu of the new and quite excellent Old Oaks Steak House in Thousand Oaks. As a result, their $80 steak really becomes a $40 steak. Since it is aged premium beef, once we add in shared sides, that’s plenty of food. Our first visit was somewhat “new restaurant not quite ready for prime time.” We gave it another shot and were very pleased. As you enter, the wine wall built by Scott Berry’s Cellar Masters is stunning.

We enjoyed a delicious food- and wine-pairing experience at Marcello Ristorante. The carefully chosen Italian wines paired perfectly with excellent eggplant parmesan, marinated shrimp, and the rest of a multicourse small bites dinner.

Last but certainly not least…wine! The best wine bar/winery in the Conejo has been, and continues to be, NABU Wines. I have been begging Greg Barnett to submit his Napa, Malibu, and now Mendocino and Paso Robles wines into competition. He is now knocking the ball out of the park with multiple medals from state fairs and wine events throughout SoCal. The reds are superior wines that can also be aged. The Albariño, a not-too-well-known Spanish varietal, is a star.

Last, but not least, take a look at our Sonoma wine country trip—more on that inside this issue.

9:41 pm
Lifestyle • Education • Culture

By Barton Goldsmith

Photography provided

Barton Goldsmith, PhD, is an award-winning psychotherapist, humanitarian and lifelong resident of Westlake Village. He is also a columnist, the author of eight books, and a blogger for PsychologyToday.com with over 35 million readers. He is available for in-person and video consults worldwide at Barton@BartonGoldsmith.com.

  1. Life is a gift and life with love is heaven on Earth. To be able to share whatever you have with those closest to you is one of the best feelings any human being could ever experience.
  2. Being with someone who makes you laugh every day is healing, enriching and just downright fun. It is also one of the signs of a healthy relationship.
  3. To be at peace, couples have to trust one another. Knowing that your partner is there for you and will remain faithful on all levels takes a lot of the stress of daily living away.
  4. To be able to cry on your loved one’s shoulder if you need to is one of the treasures in a good relationship. For a man, to be able to let his guard down and release the pain is nurturing and emotionally healthy. For a woman, having someone who will listen and hold her is a way she will feel safe and secure.
  5. Dealing with the ups and downs of life and love as a couple will bond you and make things easier. Life is sweeter when you share it, so don’t hold back.
  6. The feeling of peace that a couple has when they know who they are and where they are going is one of the best sensations you can have. Tranquility is one of the most underrated things in life.
  7. Feeling like Snoopy at suppertime or grinning from ear to ear because you know you’re loved by the right person is a rare and beautiful gift.
  8. If you’ve ever dealt with a serious or chronic illness you know how important your health is. Being with someone who will care for you if you ever have a physical crisis gives you a powerful sense of wellbeing.
  9. Knowing that there is a higher power you can turn to when things become too difficult for you to deal with on your own is a blessing. We all have our doubts about this from time to time and most seem to return to the idea that something much more powerful than we are has had a hand in making this all happen.
  10. Being with your best friend is one of the most romantic things I can think of. As the years pass, having someone you can talk to is far more important than money, looks or sex. Friendship in a relationship is a winning combination.

I love Thanksgiving; it’s a time when I get to remind myself of the many things I am grateful for, and all of you who read my column are a big part of that. Thank you!

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

5:58 pm
Events Giving Back

Hosted by Five07 Coffee along with volunteers from area nonprofits

The 2025 Turkey Day Dash event starts at 7 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 27, at Cal Lutheran University’s Memorial Field in Thousand Oaks, 60 W. Olsen Road.

For more information and to register, visit TurkeyDayDash.org.

Written By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Photography provided

Some 2,500 participants are expected to register for the event, which features a timed 5K road race and the Zack Zernik Mile (run/walk).

“It’s amazing!” says Race Organizer Kyle Jorrey, noting that Thanksgiving is the “biggest running day of the year.”

“The event has an incredible energy; people love it.”

The family-friendly tradition attracts an array of participants who sign up year after year to start the day off with some exercise before heading home to their Thanksgiving feasts.

“Between the mile and 5K, it takes about an hour and a half, so you can be home by 10 a.m. and still have plenty of time to cook dinner and enjoy the Thanksgiving festivities,” notes Jorrey, adding that all ages and skill levels are welcome.

“We have serious runners who are there to compete as well as parents with strollers,” says Jorrey. “This is really a family event, so we don’t want anyone to feel intimidated. Walkers are welcome.”

Participants who register ($50/person or $40/person for a family of three or more) receive a T-shirt and gift bag. Medals and prizes are awarded to the three fastest males and females in each age group.

Those who sign up can participate in the Zack Zernik Mile (8 a.m.) or the Dash 5K (8:30 a.m.), or both. The mile event is named in honor of a Conejo Valley native and lifelong “Dasher” who lost his life in January 2023 at the age of 22. Zachary “Zack” Zernik, a graduate of Thousand Oaks High School, was climbing near Mount Boney outside Newbury Park when he lost his footing and fell.

Zack and his family―including mom Elizabeth, dad Fred, and sister Marina―participated in the Thanksgiving Day tradition for many years. Zack was an Eagle Scout

The event also features a costume contest and fundraising teams competing for gift cards and prizes.

All proceeds from the Dash benefit three local nonprofits: Hospice of the Conejo, Kiwanis Club of Thousand Oaks Foundation and Scouting America Ventura County. All three provide volunteers who make the event possible.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

10:36 pm
Lifestyle • Education • Culture

Oaks Christian School

31749 La Tienda Rd, Westlake Village, CA 91362
Tel: (818) 575-9900 | oakschristian.org
Hours: Monday-Friday 8 am-4 pm
Saturday & Sunday Closed

Oaks Christian School is a co-educational, college-preparatory, non-denominational Christian school serving students TK–12. Oaks Christian School is located on 25 acres in Westlake Village, Los Angeles County, California. The school was established in 2000. 

CLICK HERE: Learn More About Oaks Christian School

Written By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Photography provided

Its recent expansion to include transitional K-third grade makes Oaks Christian School a full-service TK-12 college-preparatory school.

“Two-and-a-half years ago, I shared with our community the exciting news that the OCS Board of Trustees had unanimously approved expanding the Oaks Christian mission to include the youngest students of this generation, and those that follow,” says Head of School Rob Black. “We are now looking forward to fulfilling that promise, where your youngest Lions will thrive academically, emotionally, physically and spiritually.”

Oaks Christian is currently accepting applications for its newest grade levels—extending the school’s exceptional academic and character-building programs to its youngest learners.

To accommodate this growth, Oaks Christian has entered into a lease agreement with the Conejo Valley Unified School District for the property at 975 Evenstar Avenue (formerly Carden Conejo School). The new OCS Evenstar campus, located in Westlake Village, will open in August 2026, exclusively serving students in TK-3.

The TK and Kindergarten levels will offer a full-day program, with complimentary before-school care beginning at 7 a.m. and optional after-school care available until 6 p.m. for an additional fee.

Prospective families are invited to learn more at the Fall Open House on Nov. 2 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the main campus (31749 La Tienda, Westlake Village). A special Elementary Zone session for TK–3 parents will be offered during the event.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

6:33 pm
Health • Wellness

FirstLight Home Care

2655 First Street, Suite 250, Simi Valley, CA 93065
Tel: 805-915-4706 | firstlighthomecare.com
Hours: Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday & Sunday Closed

Provide exceptional care so that your loved one has the support they need to enjoy the quality of life they deserve in the place they call home.

CLICK HERE: Learn More About FirstLight Home Care

Photography By Provided

“Do not cast me off in the time of old age; do not forsake me when my strength is spent.”  — Psalms 71:9

When it comes to caring for loved ones in their time of need, FirstLight Home Care provides non-medical compassionate care for seniors and adults with disabilities in the place they call home, wherever that may be, at a facility, a community center or even a hospital.

Founded in 2009, FirstLight Home Care aims to “help people have their best day every day, whatever that looks like to them.”

Serving Ventura County and the Canoga Park/West Hills areas, FirstLight Home Care’s skilled staff offers a range of services, from companionship and personal care, including showering, toileting, transferring, mobility assistance and running errands, to grocery shopping, light housekeeping, laundry and cooking as well as specialty services, covering memory, dementia and hospice care

“Our caregivers are licensed, trained, insured and bonded W-2 employees so you have peace of mind knowing your loved ones are receiving the support they need to enjoy the quality of life they deserve,” notes Scot, who knows firsthand how important that is when it comes to caring for those in need.

“I had the honor of being able to take care of my father and father-in-law at the end of their respective lives, and I recognized the importance of helping them age in place,” shares Scot, who opened FirstLight Home Care to serve the community.

He takes pride in ensuring his clients receive the highest quality care—”We have been told by quite a few of our clients that no other agency is as involved in the establishment of the caregiver/client relationship”—and relishes the “interesting and fulfilling connections our caregivers have with our clients.”

Leveraging a background in finance and accounting and currently holding a certified bookkeeper’s certificate with the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers and California licenses for real estate, life and health insurance, Scot is dedicated to his business and his family.

“I’ve been married for 16 years to the love of my life and am blessed with two beautiful granddaughters,” he says. Scot invites readers to contact him to learn more about how FirstLight Home Care can help care for your family and loved ones.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

10:58 pm
Giving Back

Dream Community Center

870 Hampshire Road, Suite X, CA 91361
Tel: (805) 796-4276 | dreamcommunitycenter.org
Hours: Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday & Sunday Closed

An inclusive recreation center dedicated to enriching and empowering our community

CLICK HERE: Learn More About Dream Community Center

By Alicia Doyle

Photography By Provided

With a mission is to empower teens and adults of all abilities by offering a nurturing environment, the Dream Community Center in Westlake Village is an inclusive recreation community center for adults and teens with disabilities.

“One of the important areas of focus for our center is serving adults on the spectrum. This is a huge need and we are eager to fill the gap for Conejo Valley families,” says Edlyn Peña, of Camarillo, who’s a mom to an autistic 17-year-old son, Diego.

The majority of services in California are geared toward youth, she noted. “But, as we know and expect, those youth will grow up to become adults.”

With more and more children being diagnosed with autism at a rate of 1 in 31 children, “our communities need more resources for autistic adults,” says Peña.

Adding that services for this population are especially important for those who require high support needs and may not be independent enough to hold their own job or career. “We cater to this population by giving them enriching programs and classes throughout the day.”

The center–founded by Peña and her business partner, Henry Panah–opened in June with a 7-week summer camp that served 26 campers who participated in age-appropriate activities and games.

“A few weeks ago we transitioned into offering a daytime program that offers classes ranging from brain games, to STEM lessons, to self-regulation and self-advocacy life skills,” Peña says. “We started off with four participants and hope to enroll more in the future.”

In the afternoons, the center offers social recreation classes, including music, art, yoga, ceramics, fitness and brain and motor games. Classes are vendored with Tri-Counties Regional Center.

“Oftentimes, minimally speaking and nonspeaking teens and adults attend programs and services where the staff may not be trained in supporting different modes of communication,” says Peña.

Further noting that the staff is trained in providing access to augmentative and alternative communication to minimally speaking and nonspeaking autistic teens and adults.

“This may include communication tools and devices like laminated letter boards, choice boards, keyboards and tablets with communication apps,” she explains. “It is unusual to find programs that are equipped to include participants who have different communication needs. This is important for their inclusion, participation and interactions with peers and instructors/staff.”

The Dream Community Center was inspired by Peña’s son, Diego, who will graduate from high school this June. He is nonspeaking and uses a letter board to communicate, and often requires one-on-one support to participate in activities and interact with others.

With the Dream Community Center, “Diego and his peers have more options for enrichment, age-appropriate programs and supportive staff who know how to incorporate a person who communicates differently.”

In addition to her role as CEO of the Dream Community Center, Peña is a professor and scholar who researches approaches to support the inclusion of minimally speaking autistic students in community and educational settings. She has published more than two dozen research articles, books and reports in the area of disability.

“In particular, my research focuses on exploring ways to assist neurodiverse students to access and transition into college environments, and supporting minimally speaking autistic students to access and use augmentative and alternative ways to communicate.”

The Dream Community Center “fills an important gap” in community services by providing people from Conejo Valley and beyond with fulfilling life options.

“Families from Ventura to Culver City drive all the way into Westlake Village to experience engaging, educational and fun programming,” Peña says. “We are honored to be able to create a meaningful space that is rooted in love and respect for the growing autistic community.”

Above all, she believes “all humans want relationships and purpose. Our vision is to build a community for adults and teens to have friends and a life filled with purpose.”

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

7:39 pm
Health • Wellness

Method of Beauty

30839 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd., CA 91362
Tel: 818-851-9961 | methodofbeauty.com
Hours:
Open: Monday – Friday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Select Saturdays by Appointment Only

CLICK HERE: Learn More About Method of Beauty

By Alicia Doyle

Photography By Janet Barnett

Method of Beauty is redefining the intersection of health, beauty and longevity in Westlake Village—an evolution that traces back to a powerful founding vision. Method of Beauty’s journey began with Michele Chahine, PA-C, who originally founded the brand in 2020. Michele’s vision was to create a space that seamlessly blended concierge-level aesthetics with a deeply personalized approach to beauty and wellness.

Michele Chahine, PA-C

As the practice grew, Michele decided to partner up with her husband, Dr. David Chahine, to fulfill a growing need: a truly holistic and medically-guided dimension of patient care. Together, they transformed Method of Beauty into what it is today: a sanctuary where advanced aesthetics meet the precision of medical expertise. This evolution allowed them to offer not just regenerative therapies and natural aesthetics, but a full spectrum of concierge medicine that places patient wellness at its core.

The practice—now the dream of this husband-and-wife duo—blends concierge medicine, regenerative therapies, natural aesthetics and curated skin and wellness treatments, offering not just services but a philosophy: investing in appearance as a path toward vitality, confidence and lasting wellness.

Every element, from the nurturing atmosphere to the advanced techniques, is orchestrated to deliver an exclusive, transformative experience.

“Ultimately, our mission is to inspire confidence and empower our patients to live beautifully at every stage of life,” explains Dr. David, a Board-Certified Medical Doctor. “At Method of Beauty, we don’t just provide treatments—we create an experience that is as luxurious as it is life-changing.”

What truly sets Method of Beauty apart is the full spectrum of services delivered with both medical precision and the artistry of aesthetics. Every treatment is monitored by a board-certified physician to ensure safety and clinical excellence, while the approach remains deeply personal, attuned to the goals and well-being of each client.

“We bring the precision and accountability of medicine into the world of beauty, while creating a warm, welcoming environment where patients feel heard and supported,” Dr. David notes. “Our philosophy is simple: Beauty & wellness go hand in hand, and when cared for together, they help people feel confident inside & out.”

Homecoming

At the heart of this philosophy is Michele. Raised in Agoura Hills, she has always felt a meaningful bond with the area, a driving force in making Westlake Village the home for their business. “Moving here allowed us to be closer to her family, and once we settled in, we realized we were living in what felt like heaven,” Dr. David recalls. “Westlake has been such a beautiful, welcoming community, and we truly felt called to serve the people here.”

For Michele, Method of Beauty is the realization of a dream that began when she and Dr. David first met. “We’ve always said MDPATEAM, and seeing it come to life like this means a lot,” she shares.

With nearly a decade and a half of hands-on experience, Michele stands out as a nationally recognized master injector and aesthetic leader. She has trained with respected experts across the country and now mentors other providers nationwide. Her expertise shapes every aspect of the practice, yielding results “performed with precision, artistry and a deep respect for the patient’s natural beauty,” says Dr. David.

The results speak for themselves—since opening its doors just a year ago, Method of Beauty has quickly become an integral part of the area, earning trust through personalized care and impact. The practice offers concierge medicine, physician-guided weight loss, advanced skin therapies, regenerative medicine and medical-grade aesthetics, with their licensed esthetician providing facials and treatments that balance science and luxury.

“From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed and supported,” Dr. David says. “The people here have such a strong sense of connection and care for one another, and that has made our work deeply fulfilling. Westlake has truly embraced us, and we are honored to give back to a community that already feels like family.”

November Specials 

Botox/Tox Specials

100 Units of Botox – $7 per Unit (One Sitting Only)
Purchase 100 units of Botox at our special rate of $7 per unit ($700 total). This offer must be redeemed in a single treatment session, making it ideal for patients wanting a full-face refresh or a higher dose correction in one sitting.

Bank Your Tox – $10 per Unit (Flexible Use)
Buy 100 units of Botox at $10 per unit ($1,000 total) and bank your units for future use. You don’t need to use all units at once—you can come back whenever you’re ready and we’ll apply the remaining balance. Perfect for maintenance treatments spread over time.

Filler Special

Buy 2 Syringes, Get 1 Free
When you purchase two syringes of filler, you’ll receive a third syringe free. This is an excellent way to treat multiple areas (cheeks, lips, jawline, chin) or add volume and contour for a more balanced look—while saving significantly.

Weight Loss

Complimentary Weight Loss Consultation
Receive a free weight loss consultation with our medical team. We’ll review your goals, health history, and options such as medications, peptides, or tailored nutrition plans—no cost to you.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

HRT Consultation – $250 (Normally $500)
Get a comprehensive hormone replacement consultation for $250 (regularly $500). This includes a detailed medical evaluation, review of lab work, and personalized treatment planning to help restore balance, energy, and wellness. Excludes lab fees and hormones. Consult only included.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

10:34 pm
Lifestyle • Education • Culture

Socializing Your Dog Through Group Obedience

Gold Coast began with one man’s love of dogs and has since evolved into a world-class training and performance center, situated on a twenty-acre facility in Southern California. Since our start in 1991, we have trained, matched, and delivered thousands of companions to celebrities, champion athletes, Fortune 500 CEO’s, and some of the most dynamic police departments in the world.

goldcoastk9.com | Instagram gck9obedience

Learn more about Gold Coast goldcoastk9.com.

By Bailee Gates

Group obedience is a perfect and practical way to socialize your dog. While there are many ways to socialize your dog and expose them to different environments with new sights, sounds and smells, group classes are extremely efficient. When training in a group class, the handler can socialize the dog, build their confidence, learn new skills and relieve anxiety as the energy dissipates in a structured and safe manner. Group classes offer high-value exposure to ample amounts of distractions, ranging from adults and children, to dogs, toys, food, unfamiliar environments, and new sounds and smells. These distractions work on the dog’s impulse control so the dog and handler can learn together how to work through the many distractors and associations with a variation of structured obedience exercises. This training makes getting out and having real-life experiences much easier, as your dog will be prepared, controlled, desensitized and well-socialized.

In group obedience classes the dog and handler will learn proper handling of a dog in high distraction environments.

Beyond Obedience

This includes, but is not limited to, all obedience commands such as sit, down, heel and place on and off leash; these skills are always being elevated in a multitude of ways to improve on aspects including duration, distance, form, focus and distractions. For example, your dog may know how to stay in the down position, but what happens if you leave their side? Can you move farther from them? Can you go out of their sight? Can they handle the down position with heavy distractions? Can they stay in a sit instead of a down? What if there are dogs and people surrounding them? In a group class, you can work on all of these things to elevate and improve their skills, making them completely ready for real-world distractions that you and your dog may face.

Group obedience classes also include a multitude of different dog breeds.

It is beneficial to work on socialization and exposure to various temperaments and to minimize reactivity, as each breed has unique characteristics that you want your dog to be ready for (such as high or low energy), as well as different ages, sizes and personalities that it is important to expose your dogs to so they are prepared when they encounter them in the real world.

Tricks and obstacles are some of the more fun and exciting parts of group classes. Obstacles are great exercise for each dog and are fundamental to building confidence. In an obedient and structured manner, dogs learn to go through tunnels, walk over ramps (experiencing different textures builds confidence in walking over new grounds), jump over walls and much more.

Obstacles are a great way to create engagement between you and your dog to improve your relationship. You can improve focus and the bond with your dog by learning how to get through an obstacles course.

Attending group obedience regularly is the perfect way to set you and your dog’s day up for success from the start. Not only is it fun for you and your dog, but it gives them (and the handler!) a job to work at.

You’ll start them off with the focused mental stimulation and physical exercise they need, all while being in a comfortable and safe environment. It is an asset for physical and mental well-being for your pet. You will get to problem-solve and ask questions as needed. Group class is also a cost-effective and fun way to meet people and obtain community support from other handlers and owners that may have a dog in the same situation or learning the same things as you.

Bailee Gates is the director of obedience at Gold Coast K9. Bailee grew up working with her father in the dog business and has spent the past 10 years training dogs and attending seminars with the focus on obedience, behavior modification and reactivity. For questions or to schedule training please call or text 805.297.3767. Follow them on Instagram at gck9obedience and goldcoastk9.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

9:27 pm
Travel

AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways offers luxury river cruises with various itineraries and excursions, plus attentive service.

AmaWaterways
800.626.0126 | amawaterways.com

CLICK HERE Learn more AmaWaterways

Provided by AmaWaterways

Photography by AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways has ushered in a new era of river cruising with the launch of luxury journeys along Colombia’s legendary Magdalena River. As the first major river cruise line to explore this vibrant region, AmaWaterways invites travelers to discover the heart of Colombia with two specially curated 7-night itineraries—Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia—cruising between Cartagena and Barranquilla.

A New Chapter in River Cruising

The debut of AmaMagdalena marks a milestone both for the company and for Colombian tourism. Designed in collaboration with Colombian architects and craftspeople, the 60-passenger ship blends modern luxury with the spirit of the region. Staterooms range from 237 to 516 square feet and feature AmaWaterways’ signature twin balconies, offering panoramic views of the ever-changing river landscape.

On board, guests can enjoy the spacious Luna Deck and its pool, a well-equipped fitness room, and two dining venues: a Main Restaurant serving regionally inspired Latin American cuisine alongside Western favorites and an intimate al fresco specialty restaurant immersing guests in Colombian flavors. Every detail, from the handcrafted woodwork to the locally sourced ingredients, reflects a deep connection with Colombia’s culture and natural beauty.

Immersive Itineraries and Authentic Experiences

AmaWaterways’ Magdalena River cruises are designed to immerse guests in Colombia’s diverse heritage, music and natural wonders. Each day brings opportunities for discovery, with guided excursions revealing the country’s rich history and vibrant traditions.

  • An exclusive year-round event celebrating the world-famous Barranquilla Carnaval, offering a front-row seat to Colombia’s most colorful festival.
  • Heritage tours and exclusive jazz performances in the UNESCO-designated city of Mompox, where history and music come alive.
  • Birdwatching and nature excursions along the biodiverse riverbanks, home to thousands of bird species and unique wildlife.
  • Optional pre- and post-cruise land packages in Medellín, Cartagena and Panama City for an even deeper dive into South America’s treasures.

Life On Board: Enrichment and Relaxation

AmaMagdalena offers a warm, personalized atmosphere, with a dedicated Cruise Manager and attentive crew ensuring every guest feels at home. Onboard activities include tropical fruit tastings, artisanal chocolate and rum samplings, and live performances by local musicians, celebrating the traditions that have earned Colombia its reputation as the “Land of a Thousand Rhythms.” Wellness is also a focus, with group fitness classes led by a dedicated Wellness Host and ample opportunities to relax by the pool or enjoy the ever-changing scenery from the balcony of your stateroom.

Responsible Tourism and Community Engagement

AmaWaterways’ expansion into Colombia is built on a foundation of responsible tourism and close collaboration with local communities. The program aims to create meaningful economic opportunities for riverside towns while preserving the cultural and ecological integrity of the Magdalena River. Guests not only experience Colombia’s beauty but also contribute to the well-being of the people who call the river home.

Why Choose the Magdalena River?

The Magdalena River is a living thread through Colombia’s history, culture and biodiversity. From the historic streets of Cartagena to the stilt houses of Nueva Venecia and the lush mangroves of Vía Parque Isla de Salamanca, every stop offers a new perspective on the country’s treasures

As AmaWaterways’ Co-Founder and Chief Brand Ambassador Kristin Karst states, “The launch of AmaMagdalena is more than bringing our guests to a new destination—it’s about creating lasting connections between cultures, celebrating the history and natural beauty of the Magdalena River, and offering new opportunities for local communities.”

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to river cruising, this is a rare opportunity to experience Colombia’s rhythms, flavors and landscapes in comfort and style. Embrace the magic of Colombia and be among the first to cruise this extraordinary river with AmaWaterways.

Visit AmaWaterways.com/Colombia to reserve your Magdalena River cruise today.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved