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11:29 pm
Home • Design July

Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design

Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design offers a wide selection of gas fireplaces, such as See Through Gas Fireplaces, Left,  Right, or Double Corner Fireplaces, Linear, Modern, Contemporary, Custom design, Vent Free, Traditional, or many others.

104 E Thousand Oaks Blvd, Thousand Oaks, CA 9136
(805) 496-6660 | thousandoaksfireside.com

CLICK HERE Learn more about Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design

Article and Photography Provided

The concept of the home has evolved from a simple shelter into a personalized sanctuary. At the heart of this transformation is the desire to blend indoor comfort seamlessly with outdoor luxury. For nearly 16 years, Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design has been a premiere destination for homeowners throughout Ventura, Los Angeles and Santa Barbara counties seeking this exact balance. Situated at 104 East Thousand Oaks Blvd, this full-service showroom has redefined the traditional hearth shop by offering cutting-edge fire features, custom outdoor kitchens and high-end design solutions.

Adapting to the Modern Hearth Market

Historically, fireplace shops focused strictly on traditional wood-burning units, basic mesh screens and iron tool sets. However, shifting environmental regulations and changing consumer preferences have pushed the industry to evolve. Local municipalities increasingly place restrictions on wood burning, driving demand for cleaner, highly efficient alternatives.

Under the management of Thomas Malinowski, Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design has embraced this shift. The company offers a curated portfolio of realistic, efficient electric and gas-burning units tailored to modern architectural tastes. Homeowners can explore options ranging from ultra-sleek linear gas fireplaces to dynamic see-through designs and versatile electric units. These modern units provide the cozy ambiance of a real fire without the cleanup, smoke or environmental drawbacks of traditional firewood.

Premium Brands and Visual Customization

The showroom stands out by partnering with some of the world’s leading manufacturers. Customers can inspect premium hearth brands such as

  • Heat & Glo
  • Heatilator
  • Flare Fireplaces
  • Montigo
  • Dimplex
  • Modern Flames

Beyond the internal mechanics, the store specializes in the visual styling that frames the fire. This includes pre-cast stone mantels, custom surrounds and custom fireplace doors from Design Specialties. These premium finishes allow a fireplace to serve as a stunning architectural focal point in any room.

The Thriving Outdoor Room Concept

Beyond the living room, Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design has become a specialist in the booming “outdoor room” trend. Modern backyards are no longer just patches of lawn; they are extensions of the home used for entertaining, cooking and unwinding.

• Built-in teppanyaki griddles and cooktops
• Outdoor refrigeration and ice makers
• Warming drawers and beer taps
• High-Performance Alfa Pizza Ovens

To complete the outdoor atmosphere, the company incorporates gas fire pits from The Outdoor Plus, outdoor gas and wood-burning fireplaces and premium outdoor heating units such as Bromic, SunPak and Infratech to ensure comfort even on chilly coastal evenings.

A Visual and Collaborative Experience

What truly distinguishes this destination is its consultative approach to design. Converting a homeowner’s backyard vision into reality can be challenging without visual references. To address this, the team uses 3D graphics software. Designers can create a virtual layout tailored to the customer’s space, incorporate precise models of selected grills into the rendering and show exactly how the finished project will look before any construction begins. Ultimately, Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design aims to deliver a smooth, high-quality experience that fosters long-term customer relationships. By integrating innovative clean-heat technology, premium outdoor cooking equipment and personalized design assistance, they equip local homeowners with the tools to enhance their indoor and outdoor living spaces.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

1:26 am
July Lifestyle • Education • Culture

Article & Photography supplied

Coming together at the Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village in April, the Oaks Christian community raised more than $2 million in support of the school’s mission at its annual Dinner Auction Gala.

Inspired by the generosity of Oaks Christian founder Dallas Price-Van Breda’s surprise matching gift challenge—pledging to match up to $1 million raised through auctions, direct donations and the Moment to Give campaign—the school community rose to the challenge, helping to achieve the fundraising milestone.

Emceed by Oaks Christian parent Neal McDonough, whose warmth and humor energized the evening, the program included performances by Grammy Award-winning producer David Foster and singer-songwriter Katharine McPhee, as well as vocalist Daniel Emmet, who earned a standing ovation with his powerful performance.

The live auction featured 10 exclusive items, including a rare 1927 World Series Yankees baseball signed by Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and other “Murderers’ Row” players, which sold for $24,000; an Australian Labradoodle puppy ($15,000); a luxury resort getaway ($44,000); and a unique Navy SEAL experience with a retired commander ($40,000).

Alumni also shared inspiring stories that reflected Oaks Christian’s commitment to academic excellence, artistic expression and athletic achievement. Olympians Amanda Longan (Class of 2015), Adrian Weinberg (Class of 2019) and Morgan Stickney (OCO Class of 2016) spoke about how their Oaks Christian experience helped shape their journeys to the world stage

Alumna Emily Ricks Hahn (Class of 2019) moved the audience by sharing that knowledge gained in her science classes enabled her to recognize a life-threatening medical condition, ultimately changing the course of her life and future aspirations.

The evening was a celebration of generosity, community and the lasting impact Oaks Christian continues to have on the lives of its students and alumni.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

11:04 pm
Home • Design July

First Choice Painting

726 Pamela Wood St, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
Tel: (805)273-1180 | instagram.com
First Choice Painting is open from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

 

• Exterior painting
• Interior painting
First Choice Painting on Instagram

Written By Alicia Doyle Photography provided

First Choice Painting has built its reputation one brushstroke at a time—earning trust across the Conejo Valley through decades of craftsmanship, consistency and family pride.

Founded more than 40 years ago by Felix Lopez, Sr., the company remains deeply rooted in its original mission: delivering high-quality painting services with a personal touch. Today, that legacy continues through three generations—Felix Sr., Felix Jr. and Michael Lopez—each contributing to a family tradition that blends experience with evolving industry standards.

“We want to make you feel special about your home or business,” says Felix Lopez Jr., who carries forward the values his father instilled from the beginning.

From residential refreshes to large-scale commercial projects, First Choice Painting handles interior and exterior work of all sizes. Their approach goes beyond simply applying paint. Careful preparation—patching stucco, filling cracks, sanding surfaces and ensuring a clean foundation—remains a hallmark of their process, setting the tone for a finished product that lasts.

That attention to detail has not gone unnoticed. In today’s review-driven marketplace, many clients first encounter First Choice Painting through glowing online testimonials. Across platforms like Angi, customers consistently highlight the team’s professionalism, efficiency and ease of collaboration.

For Felix Jr., those reviews reflect something deeper than customer satisfaction—they reinforce a long-standing commitment to doing things the right way.

“Our painters are highly qualified, and we take pride in being clean, professional, responsive and punctual,” he explains. “We aim to deliver great craftsmanship while offering real value to every customer.”

That commitment extends to the materials they use. First Choice Painting partners with trusted brands such as Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, and Dunn-Edwards, ensuring durable, high-quality finishes. The company also offers eco-friendly options and remains available for emergency painting needs when time is critical.

Serving communities throughout Santa Rosa Valley, Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park, Calabasas, Malibu, the Palisades, and the San Fernando Valley, First Choice Painting has become a go-to resource for homeowners and businesses alike.

Every project is fully licensed, bonded and insured, with a guarantee that underscores the company’s confidence in its work.

“We love painting houses and businesses,” Felix Jr. says. “It’s what we do—and it’s in our blood.”

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

10:39 pm
Editor Letters July

Publishers Letter

Tracy Marcynzsyn, Editor

Our theme this month is explore, and July is the perfect month to get out there and discover new places to go and things to do. Whether it’s taking a road trip with family or friends, jumping on a plane to a farther-off destination, or scouting out a new hiking trail or restaurant closer to home, venturing out into the world to explore something new yields immeasurable benefits.

This month’s columnist, Barton Goldsmith, in his “10 Tips for Summer Fun,” encourages us to “do the new,” noting that experiencing new adventures with others helps us connect and build strong bonds.

Our resident columnist, Kim Pagano, also shares how exploring new places sparks inspiration and fresh ideas. Fortunately, our area is brimming with exciting, wonderful things to explore.

Mizel Estate Wines is one of those that are highlighted in this issue. Located in the pristine Hidden Valley, the winery offers breathtaking scenery with roses, vines, and the spectacular Santa Monica Mountains towering above. Spending an afternoon at this magical locale offers a peaceful respite from the fast-paced world of responsibilities and to-do lists. In addition to wine tastings, guests can take an art class or wind down with yoga and a sound bath.

A little further up the road in Paso Robles is another fun destination to discover and sample some world-class wines. Publishers Ben and Robin share some of their favorite places to wine and dine that they’ve discovered during their annual trip to Paso Robles, where small-town charm makes for a heartfelt visit. “The town square is a modern version of a traditional Norman Rockwell painting,” says Ben.

Another quintessential slice of American nostalgia can be found in Nashville, Tennessee, where travel writer Melissa Curtin takes us beyond the crowds and cover bands to historic neighborhoods and culinary destinations to drool for. Read all about it and more in the pages that follow.

We hope this issue inspires you to explore and discover some amazing new finds this summer. Bon Voyage!

12:37 am
Health • Wellness June

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

At Method of Beauty, men’s health isn’t an afterthought—it’s a movement. Founded on the principle that health, performance and appearance are interconnected, the practice blends advanced medicine with a distinctly human touch.

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.

“Care here isn’t transactional,” says Ali David Chahine, MD, a physician at Method of Beauty. “It’s intentional, personalized and deeply integrated.”

That philosophy defines everything about the patient experience. Rather than treating isolated concerns, Dr. Chahine and his team approach each patient as a whole.

“We bridge the gap between traditional medicine and modern optimization,” he explains. “Patients don’t just look better—they perform better, feel better and move through life with greater confidence.”

Redefining Men’s Health

The practice has seen a steady rise in male patients—a sign of what Dr. Chahine calls a “cultural shift” in how men view wellness.

“One of the biggest misconceptions is that men’s health treatments are rooted in vanity,” he says. “In reality, they’re rooted in restoration. The goal is not to change who someone is, but to restore alignment and strength.”

He adds that many signs of decline—fatigue, weight gain or reduced performance—are not inevitable parts of aging.

“Those are signals,” he explains. “When properly evaluated, they can be addressed and often reversed.”

The New Trend: Intentional Living

According to Dr. Chahine, more men are taking a proactive role in their health than ever before.

“Conversations around hormones, metabolism and performance are no longer niche—they’re mainstream,” he says. “Taking care of your health and appearance is no longer indulgent. It’s a form of self-respect.”

Greater awareness and access are key drivers of this shift, along with changing cultural perspectives.

“The modern patient doesn’t wait for problems,” he adds. “He invests in staying ahead of them.”

Tailored Treatments That Work

At Method of Beauty, every treatment plan is physician-led and customized.

“Our aim is to optimize both how a patient feels and how he shows up in his life,” says Dr. Chahine.

Method of Beauty offers services to help men age well and live their best lives, including Hormone Optimization (HRT), medical weight loss and more.

  • Hormone Optimization (HRT): Hormonal balance is foundational to male performance and longevity. Through advanced labs and individualized care, testosterone is restored to an optimal—not excessive—range. “Patients typically notice better energy, focus, strength and mood,” notes Dr. Chahine. “When properly managed, hormone therapy becomes a cornerstone of long-term vitality.”
  • Medical Weight Loss and Metabolic Optimization: Weight management is approached as a reflection of metabolic health. Using evidence-based strategies—including GLP-1 medications when appropriate—patients refine body composition while improving cardiovascular function and stamina. “The goal is refinement, not restriction,” Dr. Chahine emphasizes. “It’s about sustainable results, not short-term fixes.”
  • Erectile Dysfunction Treatment: Erectile dysfunction, he says, is rarely a standalone issue. “It’s often an early signal of vascular, metabolic or hormonal changes,” he explains. Treatments may combine medication, hormone optimization and regenerative therapies. “Confidence is restored, presence improves and men regain control of their health and lives.”

Breaking Barriers

Despite growing awareness, Dr. Chahine sees mindset—not access—as the biggest barrier for many men.

“Men are conditioned to tolerate discomfort and push through fatigue,” he says. “They often don’t realize that low energy or weight gain are modifiable, not fixed states.”

Traditional healthcare settings can also be uninspiring or inefficient. Method of Beauty reimagines that environment—offering discretion, efficiency and comfort.

“When the experience changes,” Dr. Chahine notes, “so does the behavior.”

Building Strength for the Future

When asked for his best advice for aging well, Dr. Chahine is clear: Prevention outperforms cure.

“Start before you feel the need to,” he advises. “The most effective interventions are preventative.”

He recommends understanding your baseline through lab work, maintaining strength training, prioritizing nutrition and sleep, and managing stress.

“Approach health with the same strategy you apply to career or finance,” he says. “The return is exponential.”

Ultimately, he believes true wellness goes beyond physical results.

“Health isn’t something to manage passively—it’s built deliberately,” he says. “Taking control doesn’t mean reacting to decline; it means creating a plan that sustains strength and clarity over time.”

When overall balance is achieved—through hormones, metabolism and performance—the benefits ripple outward.

“It influences how a man leads, how he connects and how he experiences life,” says Dr. Chahine. “This isn’t about chasing youth—it’s about maintaining capability.”

A Mission of Precision

As Men’s Health Month approaches, Dr. Chahine hopes more men will view healthcare not as crisis management, but as an opportunity.

“Many common concerns—fatigue, weight gain and decreased performance—are early indicators of deeper shifts,” he explains. “When addressed with precision, they become opportunities to extend longevity and enhance quality of life.”

That philosophy drives Method of Beauty’s mission: to deliver advanced, personalized medical care that empowers men to perform—and live—at their highest level.

“Because when a man feels strong, clear and in control of his health,” says Dr. Chahine, “everything else follows.”

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

11:46 pm
Health • Wellness June

Metriq Health

77 Rolling Oaks, Suite 110 Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
Tel: 805-634-3301 | metriq.health
Hours:
Tue and Thu: 10 am–7 pm
Wed, Fri, and Sat: 9 am–5 pm

Physician-led hormone optimization in the heart of the Conejo Valley

CLICK HERE: Learn More About Metriq Health

In a region known for high performance professionally, physically and personally, health is no longer viewed as maintenance. It is optimization.

Metriq Health was founded on a simple but powerful belief: We are not passive recipients of aging; we are architects of it.

At its core, Metriq Health is redefining what modern medicine can look like when it is both deeply scientific and deeply personal. Located in Thousand Oaks, and serving Westlake Village and the Conejo Valley, the physician-led clinic offers a new model of care that replaces fragmented wellness approaches with a unified, data-driven strategy designed to enhance energy, cognition, strength, and long-term health span.

This is not wellness as a trend. This is medicine, executed with precision.

A New Standard in Hormone and Metabolic Optimization

Hormones are dynamic signals that influence nearly every system in the body, from metabolism and sleep to mood, focus and performance. Yet traditional care often treats them in isolation or overlooks them entirely. Metriq Health was built to change that. Their care model serves both women and men, including support through perimenopause and menopause, testosterone optimization, thyroid health, and broader metabolic and cardiovascular risk assessment.

By analyzing biomarkers across cardiovascular, metabolic, neurocognitive and bone health, Metriq Health places hormone health in the context of whole-body physiology. Each patient receives a personalized protocol that evolves over time, guided by real data, not guesswork.

By analyzing biomarkers across cardiovascular, metabolic, neurocognitive and bone health, Metriq Health places hormone health in the context of whole-body physiology. Each patient receives a personalized protocol that evolves over time, guided by real data, not guesswork.

Every decision is grounded in a simple principle: If it cannot be measured, it cannot be optimized.

Physician-Led. Data-Driven. Individually-Designed.

At Metriq Health, care is not delegated or templated. It is designed. Led by Founders Eileen Higham, PhD, and Tom Anderson, MD, the clinic integrates clinical medicine with cutting-edge diagnostics to create a deeply personalized experience.

Patients are not passive recipients of care. They are active participants, equipped with the knowledge and data to understand and shape their own biology.

This philosophy reflects a broader shift in healthcare toward individualized, proactive and transparent care. At Metriq Health, this is defined as data-driven vitality.

Where Science Meets Real Life

Despite its clinical rigor, Metriq Health is designed to feel approachable, human and collaborative. Complex science is translated into intuitive guidance that integrates seamlessly into daily life.

Patients come seeking more than lab results. They seek sustained energy, sharper cognition, improved strength and resilience, and confidence that their health is aligned with their goals.

Most importantly, they seek clarity. Metriq Health provides not only the data, but the understanding behind it.

A Movement, Not Just a Clinic

In a culture saturated with quick fixes and conflicting advice, Metriq Health stands for discipline over hype, data over opinion and partnership over prescription.

It is built for individuals who approach their health with intentionality, who demand precision, and who believe their best years are still ahead.

Because longevity alone is not the goal. The goal is vitality, measured in energy, clarity and capability.

In the Conejo Valley, that future is being engineered one data point, one protocol and one patient at a time.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

10:59 pm
Home • Design June

Top Armor Roofing

2524 Townsgate Road, Unit F, Westlake Village, CA 91361
Tel: 805.492.9036 | toparmorroofing.com
Hours:
Monday: 7:00 am – 4:00 pm
Tuesday: 7:00 am – 4:00 pm
Wednesday: 7:00 am – 4:00 pm
Thursday: 7:00 am – 4:00 pm
Friday: 7:00 am – 4:00 pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Licensed Roofing Contractor With Over 35 Years of Experience in the Conejo Valley

CLICK HERE: Learn More About Top Armor Roofing

In fire-prone regions like Ventura County, a home’s roof is more than a finishing touch—it’s a critical line of defense. Embers carried by wind can travel long distances, landing on rooftops and slipping into small openings. Without proper protection, these seemingly minor vulnerabilities can quickly escalate into serious threats. That’s why roofing plays such an essential role in overall fire safety.

For more than a decade, Top Armor Roofing has helped homeowners and property managers strengthen that first line of defense. Led by President and Owner John Condon, with more than 30 years of industry experience, the company has built its reputation on careful workmanship, dependable service and a strong focus on long-term protection.

Why Roofs Are Vulnerable

Even the most durable roofing systems can become susceptible to fire over time. Wind-driven embers are one of the biggest concerns during wildfires, capable of entering tiny gaps or settling into accumulated debris. Roofs that haven’t been regularly maintained often collect leaves, pine needles and other materials that can ignite easily.

Tile roofs, for example, may appear solid from the ground but can trap debris beneath their layers. Similarly, metal roofs—while non-combustible—can still pose a risk if flammable material is left sitting on the surface. The issue isn’t always the roofing material itself, but what builds up around it.

Older roofs face additional challenges. Years of exposure to sun, wind and rain can weaken protective layers, making them less effective against extreme conditions. Asphalt shingles, for instance, rely on a mineral coating for durability and resistance; as that layer deteriorates, so does the roof’s ability to perform under stress.

Understanding Fire Ratings

Many modern roofing materials are designed to meet high fire-resistance standards. A Class A rating—the highest available—indicates that a roofing system has been tested to withstand flame exposure, resist ignition and limit fire spread. Materials such as tile, metal and fiberglass-based shingles often qualify for this designation.

However, the rating is not determined by materials alone. The entire roofing system contributes to fire resistance, including the underlayment beneath the surface and the way each component is installed. Proper alignment, sealing and fastening all play a role in how well a roof performs under fire conditions.

This is where professional expertise becomes essential. Even top-tier materials can fail if they are not installed according to manufacturer specifications. Incorrect installation can compromise the system’s integrity, increase risk and even void warranties.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance

One of the most effective ways to reduce fire risk is consistent upkeep. Clearing debris from roofs and gutters, checking for damage and addressing minor issues early can significantly improve a home’s resilience.

For multi-story homes or larger properties, these risks can go unnoticed without professional inspections. What looks fine from the ground may hide buildup or wear that needs attention. Routine service helps identify these problems before they become hazards.

Top Armor Roofing offers an inexpensive drone flight inspection specifically looking for debris build up on the surface. This service is a step beyond routine inspections, geared toward fire safety prevention. Homeowners and HOA communities can call their office at 805.492.9036 to schedule the service.

Top Armor Roofing’s full range of services—including repairs, restorations, replacements and emergency work—are designed to keep roofs in optimal condition year-round. Their experience spans residential homes, commercial buildings and large community developments, giving them insight into a wide variety of roofing challenges.

Craftsmanship That Makes a Difference

For John Condon, roofing is more than a profession—it’s a hands-on craft developed over decades. Licensed in California since the early 1990s, he remains actively involved in projects, bringing a meticulous eye to every detail. From precise cuts to proper sealing techniques, that level of care ensures each roof is built to perform.

Equally important is the team behind the work. Manufacturer-trained crews and experienced supervisors help maintain consistent quality across every project. By focusing on training and high standards, the company ensures that each installation meets strict safety and performance guidelines.

Community Focus & Peace of Mind

Beyond technical expertise, Top Armor Roofing operates with a strong sense of local connection. Much of its work comes through referrals—a reflection of trust earned through reliable service and positive experiences. The company’s approach combines the capability to handle large-scale projects with the attentiveness of a smaller, community-oriented business.

Fire safety starts at the top. A well-built, properly maintained roof can slow the spread of flames, reduce ignition risk and provide valuable protection when it matters most. By combining durable materials, expert installation and ongoing care, homeowners can significantly improve their home’s resilience. For those looking to strengthen their roof’s performance and safety, working with experienced professionals is key.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

9:59 pm
Giving Back June

Article by Tracy Marcynzsyn, Photography by Judi Bumstead and Robyn Richardson, 

Mark your calendar for the 13th annual For The Troops Heroes Golf Tournament taking place September 21 at Moorpark Country Club.

The full day of golfing and fellowship with active duty servicemembers helps support the care packages sent to military personnel throughout the world, notes Golf Tournament Director and For The Troops board member Jenna Venarde.

“We’re asking the public to sponsor active duty servicemembers to play in the tournament,” shares Paula Cornell, founder and President of For The Troops, an all-volunteer run 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that brightens American military members’ days with ‘We Care’ packages full of basic necessities and comfort items.

Golfers can participate in the 144-person tournament and/or sponsor an active duty servicemember for $195 to help sustain For The Troops’ mission of sending more care packages, while enjoying a day on the course. Current Medal of Honor sponsors include Logix Federal Credit Union and Kroger.

Additional ways to support For The Troops include making monetary donations online at ForTheTroops.org, shipping items directly to the nonprofit via Amazon or mailing a check to For The Troops (PO Box 12, Simi Valley, CA 93062).

“As we operate out of a donated storefront in Simi Valley, we’re not using donations to pay salaries or rent—it’s all going to the care packages,” says Paula.

As well as donating money and supplies, people can write letters of appreciation to our service members abroad.

“The troops’ number 1 request are for children’s letters,” says Paula, noting the letter-writing guidelines can be found online at ForTheTroops.org.

Paula started For The Troops over 21 years ago after learning about her husband’s experiences in Vietnam.

All over the world, wherever we have deployed troops, we’ve done this for over 21 years.

“All the hardships that my husband and other servicemembers went through when they were deployed motivated me to start For The Troops,” says Paula, adding, “We always have troops deployed, all over the world–it’s not a political issue; it doesn’t matter who the president is. It’ll never stop, we will always have troops deployed,” so supporting our troops is a great way to ease some of their burden.

“They’re away from their families and loved ones for holidays and special occasions; they sacrifice so much for us,” says Paula.

For more information, visit FortheTroops.org.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

9:15 pm
Home • Design June

Conejo Services

Conejo Services has been providing expert air conditioning, heating, electrical, plumbing, and insulation services to the Conejo Valley for over 45 years.

2550 Azurite Circle Newbury Park, CA 91320
Tel: (805) 262-7358 | conejoservices.com

CLICK HERE: Learn More About Conejo Services

Article by Tracy Marcynzsyn, Photography Provided

For nearly 50 years, Conejo Services has been a trusted name for homeowners looking to simplify the way they care for their homes. Founded in Thousand Oaks in 1979, this family-run company was built on a straightforward idea: make home maintenance easier by bringing multiple essential services under one roof. Today, that vision continues to guide the business, offering everything from heating and air conditioning to plumbing, electrical, roofing, insulation, pool services and garage door solutions.

At its core, Conejo Services is about relationships. The company has grown steadily over the decades, not by chasing trends, but by focusing on consistent, dependable service and treating customers like neighbors. Their philosophy—“neighbors helping neighbors”—is more than a slogan, it’s the standard by which every job is done. Whether it’s a routine tune-up or a major installation, the goal is always the same: Do the job right and stand behind the work.

Owner Branden Dickey embodies that philosophy. Having grown up in the business alongside his father, Founder Wally Dickey, Branden learned the trade from the ground up—starting as a child holding a flashlight and eventually becoming a skilled technician. In his 20s, he took over the company and has since transformed it from a modest two-truck operation into a fleet of more than 100 vehicles serving Ventura County and beyond. Despite that growth, the company has stayed true to its roots as a local, family-owned business.

Conejo Services offers a comprehensive range of home services designed to eliminate the need for multiple contractors. Homeowners can rely on the company for HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance; plumbing and rooter services; electrical work such as panel upgrades and EV charger installations; whole-home generators; insulation; roofing and gutters; pool cleaning and equipment repair; and garage door tune-ups, repairs and installations. This “one-call solution” approach is especially appealing to busy homeowners who value convenience and consistency.

Customers consistently highlight the company’s professionalism, honesty and no-pressure approach. Technicians are known for treating each home with care and respect, taking the time to clearly explain options so homeowners can make informed decisions. This level of transparency has helped build a strong referral base and long-standing trust within the community.

Like many growing service companies, Conejo Services faces the challenge of finding and developing skilled professionals who share its commitment to quality and customer care. In response, the company invests heavily in training and supporting its team, ensuring that every technician upholds the high standards customers have come to expect. This focus not only strengthens the business but also contributes to the broader need for skilled trades in the region.

Beyond business, Conejo Services is deeply rooted in community involvement. Under Branden Dickey’s leadership, the company has become a significant local employer, creating stable, well-paying jobs while helping train the next generation of tradespeople. His vision extends beyond home services—he aims to build a company that actively strengthens the community it serves.

That commitment is also reflected in his personal life. Branden and his wife, Jamie, founded the Branden & Jamie Dickey Family Foundation to support children facing serious medical challenges. Inspired by their family’s experiences with Type 1 diabetes, autoimmune conditions, and vitiligo, the foundation focuses on making a meaningful difference for local families in need.

Conejo Services also offers a variety of specials designed to make home maintenance more accessible. First-time customers can choose a complimentary service, including dryer vent cleaning, a water heater flush, a furnace safety check or a roof checkup. Additional offers include garage door tune-ups for $87 per door (regularly $129), a free first month of weekly pool cleaning and $87 AC tune-ups to prepare for the summer heat.

With 24/7/365 availability, a wide range of services and a commitment to both customers and community, Conejo Services continues to make homeownership simpler and more manageable.

For more information, call 805.225.6250 or visit ConejoServices.com.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

8:12 pm
Publisher Letters

Publishers Letter

Ben Malkin, Publisher

Through the years the theme of our June issue has always been “Men”. This month we have chosen to lead with a feature on a local nonprofit that supports both men and women, For The Troops. If you are a regular reader  you are familiar with who they are and the purpose of their mission. This issue highlights their latest fundraising event.  They honored Vietnam veterans and raised donations to support the men and women currently serving in our armed forces.

For The Troops is an all-volunteer run 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing members of the American military with “We Care” packages containing basic necessities, goodies, games and—most of all—a show of support.

Since its inception in 2005, For The Troops has substantially grown in volunteers and donors and has distributed more than 250,000 packages year-round to American troops who risk their lives overseas every day—far away from the comforts of home.

The men and women in our armed forces….Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines are deployed throughout the world and particularly in the Middle East. They are presently risking their lives under what are often miserable and dangerous conditions. Supporting them is not at all about agreeing or disagreeing with whether they should be there or not be there. As an Air Force veteran of the Vietnam Era, I am very familiar with that kind of debate. I encourage as much local community support of For The Troops as possible. Donations and letters to encourage morale are always welcome. Learn more about them at For The Troops.org.

I will sign off with the current core value of the USAF. “Integrity first, Service before self, Excellence in all we do”.