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9:24 pm
Giving Back June
CLICK HERE Learn more about Montecito Bank & Trust Grants

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Photography by Clint Weisman, Clint Weisman Studio

The longstanding tradition of celebrating Montecito Bank & Trust’s (MB&T) anniversary by honoring local nonprofits selected by the bank’s more than 260 associates continued last March when more than 110 attendees gathered for a reception in the bank’s historic downtown branch. The bank’s late founder, Michael Towbes, first started the Anniversary Grants program in 1993 to honor Montecito Bank & Trust’s anniversary by giving back to the community. He wanted bank associates to have a voice in the direction of the bank’s corporate giving and to celebrate the exceptional volunteer service they provide to Central Coast communities.

The annual program is a source of pride among bank associates, as they campaign, rally and vote for the organizations that make an impact on their lives and communities. In addition to receiving a $3,000 check, each Anniversary Grant recipient also received a 1-minute locally produced promotional video showcasing the organization’s extraordinary work and the bank provides additional promotion of each organization in the branches and on social media throughout the year.

Chairman and CEO Janet Garufis welcomed the community-minded audience commenting that the evening’s event “provides the opportunity to celebrate where we are today, remember what has brought us here and recognize the good work that is happening across our communities everyday thanks to dedicated nonprofit organizations like those here this evening.”

After MB&T associates introduced each organization, Garufis smiled as she highlighted that “there seems to be a trend each year of furry friends, helping improve the health and well-being of individuals and nurturing babies and kids!”

As the celebration drew to a close, Garufis thanked the deserving organizations. “There will be many more of these anniversaries and celebrations. On behalf of our associates and our Board of Directors, thank you for joining us in our commitment to make the communities we serve better places to live and work. We know that we would not be able to do what we do without each of you and the inspiring work you do!”

The Jerry Parent Anniversary Grants Legacy Award was added to the program in 2021 to honor the decades-long selfless community contributions of long-time Board Director Jerry Parent. Presented to an organization that makes a significant and sustainable impact on a local community, the awarded organization is nominated by a bank associate and selected by a committee with the input of. Parent. The 7th recipient of the Legacy Award is Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics, whose mission is to provide compassionate, affordable and responsive healthcare to all. Santa Barbara Neighborhood Clinics also received a $3,000 grant and a promotional video. They will be featured on a commemorative plaque in the Downtown Branch.

The 2026 Anniversary Grants recipients:

  • Angels Foster Care of Santa Barbara ASAP Cats
  • Bethania Preschool and After School Program Breast Cancer Resource Center
  • Bunny Brigade
  • Cottage Children’s Medical Center Cruzin’ For Life
  • Grace Fisher Foundation Royal Theater Production
  • Standing Together to End Sexual Assault (STESA)

Watch a video of each Anniversary Grant promotional video at montecito.bank/Anniversary-Grants.

Sidebar

Montecito Bank & Trust is the oldest and largest locally owned community bank in the Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. Founded in 1975, the bank celebrated its 51st anniversary on March 17, 2026, and operates 13 branch offices in Santa Maria, Solvang, Goleta, Santa Barbara, Montecito, Carpinteria, Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo and Westlake Village. Montecito Bank & Trust has a history of unwavering corporate philanthropy in the local communities it serves. The Bank offers a variety of competitive deposit and lending solutions for businesses and consumers, including business loans and lines of credit; commercial real estate finance; SBA loans; mortgage loans, consumer loans; credit cards; merchant services; and online services, including mobile banking and cash management. Its Wealth Management Division provides comprehensive trust services and full investment management for all branch office markets. The Bank has earned 33 Best Bank awards in the last 13 years, in addition to numerous accolades for Best Mortgage and Best Financial Services Company in Santa Barbara, Best Investment Company in Santa Ynez Valley and third in the 2026 America’s Best Workplaces ranking by Best Companies Group.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

1:34 am
Giving Back May

By Tracy Marcynzsyn & Alicia Doyle, Photography Provided

Communities thrive when women lead. Here, we celebrate three amazing locals who make the Conejo Valley such an incredible place to live. Using their skills, knowledge and talent to benefit the community and help others in countless ways, they represent the best of the best in an area teeming with accomplishment.

Robin Britt, Executive Director, Community Conscience

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” —Maya Angelou

Laura Marie Raulinaitis

Robin Britt

A true people person, Newbury Park resident Robin Britt epitomizes the meaning of community service.

Inspired by “Helping others—if I can make a positive difference in even one person’s life, it makes everything worthwhile”—she’s spent the past 25 years serving people in need.

“I began working in the nonprofit sector in 2001 and quickly realized how fulfilling it is to help organizations that improve people’s lives and strengthen the community,” says Robin, who heads a group of 14 nonprofits as Executive Director of Community Conscience, a role she’s held for the past 12+ years.

We make a bigger difference when we do it together. Please join us in support of these 20 local nonprofits and their important causes that provide help to our neighbors in need.

“The Community Conscience Board of Trustees has been a tremendous source of guidance and inspiration. Their experience, wisdom and servant hearts continually motivate me,” she shares.

Harnessing her expertise in board development, strategic planning, fundraising and organizational management, Robin aims to strengthen collaboration among nonprofit agencies and advance Community Conscience’s mission of improving coordinated services for those in need.

Nathalie Ospina

“The people,” says Robin, make it all worthwhile. “I get to work with inspiring board members, generous donors, dedicated staff and individuals who are seeking help. Connecting someone to services that can truly change their life is incredibly meaningful.”

While she notes her work is not without its challenges—”It’s heartbreaking to see people who are underserved or in crisis”—these difficulties drive her to rise to the occasion. “At the same time, those moments reinforce why this work is so important,” Robin emphasizes.

A 2018 graduate of California Lutheran University’s Board Leadership Institute and an inaugural member of CLU’s Executive Leadership Roundtable for the 2025–2026 fiscal year, Robin is also the Immediate Past President of the Kiwanis Club of Thousand Oaks, Vice President of Cats Cradle Rescue and a 2019 graduate of the Ventura County Leadership Academy, where she was recently honored as the 2026 Nonprofit Leader of the Year.

“I’ve spent many years developing skills in fundraising and leadership, and it’s incredibly rewarding to use those skills to support organizations that make our community stronger,” she shares.

In her personal life as well, Robin strives to bring joy to the community as a face painter, balloon twister and glitter and henna tattoo artist at special events. During the holidays, she proudly performs as a professional Mrs. Santa Claus, creating magical memories for children and families.

Robin’s advice for living reflects her zest for life: “Have a sense of humor. Love people, listen well and lead by example.”

When she’s not at work helping others, Robin can often be found enjoying her favorite place in the Conejo Valley—“the eclectic neighborhood where I live in Newbury Park; it has a wonderful sense of community”—or visiting amusement parks with family.

“Those trips are full of fun memories, and I’m always ready for the next adventure,” she shares, adding, “I feel incredibly fortunate to live and work in a community where people genuinely care about helping one another. When nonprofits, volunteers and community partners work together, we can truly change lives.” —TM

Nathalie Ospina, Ventura County Deputy

Deputy Nathalie Ospina’s path to law enforcement is anything but conventional—and it’s precisely her global, multifaceted journey that shapes the way she serves the community today.

Originally from Colombia, Nathalie was raised in multiple countries, including Mexico, Spain, Brazil and the United States. Before ever stepping into uniform, she built a career rooted in design and entrepreneurship. She earned a bachelor’s degree in interior architecture from Florida International University and a master’s degree in architecture from the University of Barcelona, later owning a construction company and continuing to manage an indoor soccer field in Colombia.

But in 2019, after returning to the United States and facing challenges restarting her architecture career, Nathalie chose a different direction—one grounded in service. She entered the Ventura County Sheriff’s Academy at 37 years old and now has 5 years with the department.

“The ability to help people on another level,” she says, is what first drew her to law enforcement.

After beginning her career in the county jails and later patrolling Moorpark, Nathalie found her calling as a School Resource Officer.

“I began my patrol time in the city of Moorpark. I always knew School Resource Officer was the job for me. I feel adult problems start as a child and if I could help prevent a kid from making the wrong choice, I am creating a better path for them to follow.”

That impact is already evident in the connections she builds. One moment in particular has stayed with her: After responding to a family incident and being there for one of the children, the child later saw her months afterward and ran toward her, shouting, “my favorite officer!” before giving her a hug. “That made me believe I was right where I was supposed to be.”

Beyond campus, Nathalie plays a vital role in the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office as an Arrest and Control/Use of Force instructor, women’s committee member, public information officer, Explorer program advisor and instructor for the People with Disabilities Academy. She also leads efforts supporting Special Olympics, coordinating major fundraising events like Tip-A-Cop and the Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Her passion for Special Olympics is deeply personal.

“With my son being dyslexic, he made part of some special education classes. He came home crying one day, angry because one of his friends had been made fun of due to his disabilities. My son stood up for him and became their guardian; he inspired me to follow his steps and become a guardian as well.”

That sense of purpose fuels the countless hours she dedicates to organizing events.

“Besides the time and dedication, it takes heart and passion. I believe the more heart you put into things the more successful they become.”

One of her most meaningful moments came during the 2025 international conference in Minneapolis. While working, she received a photo of her children playing with Special Olympics athletes.

“While at the 2025 international conference in Minneapolis, I took my kids with me. I was busy working and I get a photograph sent to me via text of some of the athletes and my kids playing together. I completely melted,” she reflects.

Nathalie’s work has earned her the 2025 Guardian of the Flame Award and recognition as Crisis Intervention Team Deputy of the Year, along with a nomination to the Southern California Special Olympics Council. Yet, she remains grounded in gratitude. She handles difficult days by “taking a breath, grounding myself and bringing to my own attention how blessed I am.”

Above all, she considers her most important role as being a mother to her 11-year-old son and 10-year-old daughter.

When asked what “Fabulous Women” means to her, Nathalie’s answer is simple: “Every single one of us.” –AD

Laura Marie Raulinaitis, The Lake Avenue Group at Morgan Stanley

“People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care,” –Theodore Roosevelt

“I really care about people and I’m very interested in their lives, so it’s a blessing to be able to talk to them about a topic that is uncomfortable for many and to help them navigate financially,” says Laura Marie Raulinaitis, a Financial Advisor with the Global Wealth Management Division of Morgan Stanley in Westlake Village.

For 29 years and counting, Laura has been helping clients figure out the best plans for their finances, noting that she sees her role as a financial partner for those she advises.

“Having that unbiased partner to help walk them through how to spend or allocate their money is really helpful” for married couples and for singles alike, says Laura, adding that she’s not worried about AI taking over her job.

“I guide people through their emotional response to money and fluctuating financial markets. The reason I don’t think AI will be able to overtake our jobs is because doing the right thing on paper is very often not what people do when it comes to finances…the goal is to look at investments as long-term and not to pay attention to short-term fluctuation, but when you’re losing money, it’s not easy; so clients need someone to walk them through and level set,” she explains.

As a woman in the financial field, Laura credits several mentors with helping her stay the course.

“Female mentors have really changed my life, including my mother…and I’ve been lucky to have a branch manager that took an interest in me, and helped me to reframe when I was doubting myself as a young person, as well as a female financial advisor, who was tough and helped me get a real picture of what I wanted out of this business.”

Their guidance and encouragement, says Laura, helped her find her footing in a traditionally male-dominated field.

“This is a really intense business, especially in the early years when you’re just starting out—the failure rate is 90%; most do not succeed,” she shares. “All of the people who have been mentors in my life have told me the same thing: ‘Don’t give up! Don’t quit!“

In turn, she offers similar advice to those just starting out: “If it’s hard, it’s probably worth it,” emphasizes Laura, adding that she finds great satisfaction in her work.

“I really love my job—I think of it as a great workout; it’s a lot of work and you feel great at the end of it!”

And she’s especially grateful for the camaraderie of her team.

“I didn’t have children, so as a woman, you mother everything—this business is my baby and my family; the things that happen to my clients, when they get married, have kids, are exciting to me. My clients are my extended family, and they inspire me and keep me feeling alive. Our team is so tight—we laugh together and cry together and live life together, and it’s really special,” she shares.

She looks forward to “Continuing to be able to share my knowledge with clients and my team, to lead and watch them prosper.”

Living life to the fullest also includes enjoying some free time with family.

“The goal is always to continue to find success while pursuing happiness and a balance in life,” she says, adding that she plans to spend more time traveling with her husband (who is also her business partner) and to “take the advice we give to clients: ‘Take some time for yourself, and refill your own glass and take care of your own needs, so you can give to others.”

Serving on the board of directors of the Boys & Girls Club of Conejo Valley as well as supporting Senior Concerns rate high on Laura’s to-do list.

“Only 2% of national charitable donations go to our seniors,” she notes. “It’s the state of life that most of my clients are at and they almost need us more during this time.” She shares how Senior Concerns helped her family while her father dealt with Alzheimer’s and is grateful for their programs.

“Meals on Wheels is such a great program and one of their many offerings. I love their mission,” she adds.

Referring to the Conejo Valley as “Heaven—I get to live on a lake, which is definitely my happy place,” Laura spends lazy afternoons on their boat, Lake Avenue, cruising around Westlake Lake with her husband and three dogs.

“I’m a big dog lover—they would say the business isn’t my baby, they are,” she laughs, feeling fortunate for the life she’s created.

“I really like being able to talk to people who have different opinions and absorbing their opinions with an open mind,” she notes. “In such a time of polarity, I think that it’s one of the things that makes this time in our lives so interesting. I’m grateful to be given the opportunity to work with so many interesting people. I get to wake up every day with a new thing that’s going to happen; every day is a surprise, a blessing.”

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

10:08 pm
Giving Back May

Cancer Support Community Valley/Ventura/Santa Barbara: Empowering Local Cancer Patients and Families Through Compassion, Education and Community

For 35 years, Cancer Support Community Valley/Ventura/Santa Barbara has stood alongside those in our community fighting cancer, as well as their families, friends and caregivers. Their mission is to uplift and strengthen people impacted by cancer by providing support, fostering compassionate communities and breaking down barriers to care.

Cancer Support Community serves Ventura County, Santa Barbara County and the West San Fernando Valley, providing comprehensive, evidence‑based psychosocial support in English and Spanish. All services are FREE and include professionally led support groups in English, Spanish and Japanese, individual counseling, social events, wellness classes and educational workshops. Cancer Support Community offers over 20 different support groups each month. Some groups are cancer-specific, but also offered are “all cancers” groups, as well as support groups for caregivers, our bereaved participants, survivors, family members and young adults.

For women, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer in the U.S., according to the American Cancer Society. Breast cancer is also the second leading cause of death among women. Cancer Support Community offers a variety of breast cancer support groups: Newly Diagnosed, Advanced Breast Cancer and Life After Breast Cancer (all stages).

“The Cancer Support Community helped me through a tough time, going through my initial diagnosis. The support group helped validate what I was feeling and it felt good talking to others who experienced something similar. It helped me to have others to talk through what the doctors said, since it can be so overwhelming,” shares a recent participant.

Joining a breast cancer support group offers a powerful source of emotional support, understanding and empowerment for those facing this diagnosis. Whether someone is newly diagnosed, in early or advanced stages or adjusting to life after breast cancer, all programs are offered at no cost. Through shared experiences and guided discussions, participants can reduce feelings of isolation, learn coping strategies and gain valuable insight into treatment options. Many also find renewed strength through active involvement in their recovery, stress‑reduction practices and access to community resources.

Cancer Support Community is an independently governed and funded nonprofit and affiliate of the Cancer Support Community based in Washington D.C. As the largest professionally led nonprofit network of cancer support worldwide, they are supported by a global network of 175 Cancer Support Community locations, hospitals and clinic partnerships delivering more than $50 million in free cancer support, education and services for cancer patients and their families.

Whether a participant is impacted by breast cancer or any other cancer, all of the support groups, wellness classes, educational workshops and support services are available to our community of cancer survivors, caregivers and family members. Together, group members build resilience, hope and a sense of connection on their path toward healing.

“Cancer patients who participate in their fight for recovery, along with their healthcare team, will improve the quality of their lives and may enhance the possibility of their recovery,” notes Harold H. Benjamin, PhD, founder of the Cancer Support Community, formerly known as The Wellness Community.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

10:16 pm
Arts • Entertainment May

Pacific Festival Ballet

Pacific Festival Ballet is a not-for-profit institution with a rich history of presenting performance art to the Greater Conejo Valley.  Our semi-professional company strives to cultivate tomorrow’s stars of the dance world while bringing the brightest talent from across the globe to our community.  Our partnership with the city of Thousand Oaks and the Bank of America Performing Arts Plaza provides a forum for creative expression from a strong network of company dancers, professional alumni and guest artists.  PFB features three major productions each season, preserving the tradition of classical ballet while creating innovative theater to explore the ever-changing facets of dance.

​2282 Townsgate Road, Suites 4/5/6, Westlake Village, CA 91361
(805) 906-2087 | pacfestballet.org

Lesrn More about Pacific Festival Ballet

Knights of the Round Table, King Arthur, Merlin and Queen Guinevere are everyday discussion topics for Artistic Director Kim Maselli, as are conversations about fairies, dragons and squires.

Pacific Festival Ballet presents the legend of “Camelot” in a new and exciting production at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center on Saturday, May 16 at 2 p.m.

This is not a creative first for the company. Hollywood Composer Eric Allaman and Maselli have joined forces for almost 2 decades. In 2007, the duo premiered “The Sea Princess,” and in 2010, “Noah’s Ark.” These innovative full-length productions push the boundaries of traditional ballet by featuring original music, aerial performers and mixed media scenery.

“What excites me about our original work is to see the overwhelming response from the ballet novice and enthusiast alike,” says Maselli. “My goal is to inspire new ballet audiences by bringing this beautiful art form into the 21st century with a fresh twist. There is nothing old or stuffy about our ballets!”

The creative journey into Camelot has been a long road. With the successful premiere in 2019, the Covid shutdown left original productions such as “Camelot” sitting on the sidelines. Ten years ago, Allaman and Maselli sat down to embark on their third 90-minute score researching and gathering data on the legend of Camelot, which was critical to creating a storyline suitable for the stage and telling this familiar story without dialogue. Once the scenes and characters were structured, the next 9 months were spent building themes, melodies and intentions for the score.

“Kim and I spent quite a bit of time breaking down the scenes of the ballet and determining central characters and storylines,” explains Allaman. “Our ballets have a scored feel to them very much like a movie, so this creates an opportunity for the performers to story tell as well as dance.”

Through patron support and community fundraising, Pacific Festival Ballet sent Allaman to Russia two times to record the score of “The Sea Princess” and “Noah’s Ark” with a 50-piece orchestra. During the summer of 2016, PFB sent Allaman out once again, this time to Macedonia to record the melodic score of “Camelot.”

“Few regional ballet companies have the creative and financial resources to launch into original projects such as these,” says Maselli. “I feel grateful for the opportunity to bring ‘Camelot’ to the stage for our performers as well as for our community.”

Joining Forces

Community support for Pacific Festival Ballet is felt both on and off stage. Talented individuals from all aspects of the theatrical world are combining their abilities to bring “Camelot” to life.

With a cast of 80 dancers, over 100 costumes have been purchased or made by local professional seamstresses and volunteers. Every Saturday there is a bustle of activity at California Dance Theatre, the training school of Pacific Festival Ballet, where studios are filled with rehearsing dancers and the upstairs loft transforms into a creative workshop. Costumes are fitted and embellished, medieval capes tailored and trimmed, fairy wings attached and molded.

Several enchanting elements of Camelot are the stallions belonging to the Knights of the Round Table as well as the mystical winged creatures that mingle with the citizens of the land. Elaborate headpieces have been designed and built by experienced and rising artists.

“When these eight stallions gallop across the stage, I want the audience to gasp and feel as if they are transported to an English countryside,” says Community Designer Paige Loter.

With “Camelot” returning to the stage, it is everyone’s goal to get the word out.

“This original masterpiece is a theatrical experience created by our community and for our community,” says veteran theatre producer and PFB supporter Mark Reyes. “Everyone needs to come to the Bank of America Performing Arts Center to witness the brilliance of this original production and experience the wealth of talent in the Conejo Valley.”

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

9:40 pm
Health • Wellness May

The Blend Beyond

Monica DiPrimeo offers Scar and Stretch Mark Camouflage as her leading service, including Scalp Micropigmentation and Microblading.

9301 Tampa Ave, Northridge, CA 91324
Tel: (818) 746-0311 | theblendbeyond.com
Business Hours Monday – Saturday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

CLICK HERE: Learn More About The Blend Beyond

Article By Alicia Doyle

Photography Provided

The skin tells a story.

For some, it reflects life’s joys and milestones. For others, it may carry reminders of surgery, injury, acne, or hair loss. At The Blend Beyond, Monica Diprimeo has made it her mission to help people reclaim confidence in their skin—and move forward with a renewed sense of self.

Restoring Confidence Through Skin

As the owner of The Blend Beyond, Monica specializes in paramedical aesthetics, a field that blends medical understanding with artistic techniques to improve the appearance of scars and other skin concerns.

“The Blend Beyond is a paramedical aesthetics practice dedicated to helping people restore confidence in their skin,” she explains. “My work focuses on treatments such as scar camouflage, scalp micropigmentation and skin revision techniques designed to improve the appearance of scars, hair loss and other skin challenges.”

Her work helps clients soften visible reminders of past injuries or conditions, offering solutions many people may not realize are available.

A Medical Background That Shaped a Vision

Monica’s path to founding The Blend Beyond began in the medical field. For more than 20 years, she worked as a medical assistant and surgical technician alongside dermatologists and plastic surgeons, gaining firsthand insight into both the science of skin and the emotional impact of physical scars.

“The inspiration behind The Blend Beyond came from my many years working in the medical field,” she says. “Working as a medical assistant and surgical technician alongside dermatologists and plastic surgeons, and I also spent time in the operating room. During that time, I saw firsthand the incredible work that medicine can do to save and improve lives—but I also noticed that many patients were left with scars or physical reminders that affected how they felt about themselves and left with very limited options available to help soften the appearance of the skin.”

“The Blend Beyond was born from that vision, to bridge the gap between medical treatment and aesthetic restoration, and to help people feel confident and comfortable in their skin again.”

Blending Science and Art

One of Monica’s primary specialties is scar camouflage, a technique that blends custom pigments into the skin to reduce the visibility of scars and help them blend more naturally with surrounding skin tones.

She also offers scalp micropigmentation, which creates the appearance of natural hair density for clients experiencing hair thinning or hair loss.

Additional services focus on skin regeneration and healing. Microneedling with growth factors can help improve acne scars as well as stimulate hair growth. The practice also offers advanced light therapies, including red and blue light treatments that help calm inflammation and support skin health, particularly for those dealing with active acne.

Some of these treatments have become especially popular among clients seeking solutions for concerns that once felt permanent.

“Some of the most popular services at The Blend Beyond are scar camouflage and scalp micropigmentation,” Monica says. “These treatments address concerns that many people struggle with but often don’t realize there are solutions for.”

A Personalized Approach to Healing

Beyond the technical treatments, Monica believes what truly sets The Blend Beyond apart is the deeply personal nature of her work.

“What makes The Blend Beyond unique is the combination of medical insight, artistic precision and a deeply personal approach to healing the skin,” she says. “With more than 20 years of experience working alongside dermatologists and plastic surgeons, as well as time spent in the operating room, I bring a medical understanding of scars and skin healing.”

Many clients come to her after surgery, injury, acne scarring or hair loss, searching for options that help restore what they feel they have lost.

“My role is to help restore what was lost by softening scars, blending pigments into the skin and creating the appearance of natural hair density.”

Looking Beyond the Surface

For Monica, the goal of The Blend Beyond is about far more than improving skin—it’s about helping people feel comfortable in their own bodies again.

“The ultimate goal of The Blend Beyond is to help people feel confident and comfortable in their own skin again,” she emphasizes. “The positive impact I hope to have is not only visible in the skin, but also in how people feel. Helping people move forward with a sense of improvement and empowerment is at the heart of The Blend Beyond.”

At its core, The Blend Beyond is about healing—not just what the eye can see, but the confidence that lies beneath the surface.

To make an appointment, contact Monica at 818.746.0311 or theblendbeyond@gmail.com. Learn more at BlendBeyond.com.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

8:39 pm
Lifestyle • Education • Culture May

Article and Photography Provided

Grace Netter, Oaks Christian alumna, likes to say she was “born riding.” Long before she could fully understand it, her love for horses was already taking shape, nurtured by her equestrian mother who brought her along on rides. By fifth grade, Grace was riding regularly, building a foundation that would carry her through her years at Oaks Christian, where she competed in dressage on the school’s equestrian team during her junior and senior years.

After graduating, Grace followed a different creative path, earning a degree in design and communication from Belmont University and stepping into the fast-paced world of film. Today, she works as a senior visual effects coordinator on major feature films, collaborating with studios like Disney, Netflix, Warner Brothers and Universal. While her professional life revolves around cameras, compositing software and 3D modeling, the pull of the saddle never left her.

That enduring passion led her to one of the most grueling challenges imaginable: the Mongol Derby, widely considered the longest and toughest horse race in the world. Stretching 625 miles across the vast and untamed Mongolian steppe, the race re-creates the ancient postal routes of Genghis Khan. Riders navigate using only GPS coordinates, changing semi-feral horses every few miles, enduring up to 12 hours a day in the saddle through mountains, valleys, dunes and bogs—all in extreme and unpredictable weather. It is as raw and demanding as it sounds, and many who begin the race never finish.

Grace first learned about the Derby in 2017 and was immediately captivated. Though she initially postponed her attempt to participate so that she could focus on launching her film career, the dream never faded. Years later, she applied again and was selected from hundreds of applicants for the 2025 race—an opportunity she embraced as her 30th birthday adventure. For Grace, the race was about more than endurance; it was deeply personal. Born 2 months premature and once a timid rider, she saw the Derby as a way to prove to herself just how far she had come.

What followed was an experience that tested every limit. Each horse brought uncertainty—some bucked, some bolted, others resisted entirely. Navigation was equally demanding, requiring her to chart her own course across unforgiving terrain with only a straight-line GPS as a guide. Days began before dawn and ended in exhaustion, with little sleep, no modern comforts and constant physical strain. She rode through heat, cold, rain and hail, often alone in the wilderness, facing everything from aggressive dogs to dangerous terrain—and even moments where staying on her horse felt like a matter of survival.

There were times she nearly quit. On Day 6, shaken by a difficult horse and adrenaline that wouldn’t subside, she considered dropping out. Later, on Day 9, she rode through excruciating pain, unaware that she had completely torn one ankle and partially torn the other. Yet each time doubt crept in, she chose to keep going—one more leg, one more mile, one more attempt.

Ten days after it began, Grace crossed the finish line as the final rider to complete the race—27 out of the original 45. Waiting for her at the end were the other riders, cheering her on as she arrived. Overcome with emotion, she crossed the line in tears, realizing a dream years in the making.

For her perseverance, Grace was awarded the Derby’s “Keep Buggering On” honor, recognizing her extraordinary grit and determination. But for Grace, the lessons of the journey run deeper. She reflects on how every riding experience throughout her life prepared her for that moment, and how the race taught her to slow down, take things piece by piece, and appreciate the beauty around her—even in the hardest circumstances.

She also carries with her a profound appreciation for Mongolia and its people, whose hospitality and deep-rooted horse culture left a lasting impression. In a land largely untouched by modernity, she found both challenge and connection, often relying on the kindness of local herders who welcomed her into their homes without hesitation.

Now, as she faces recovery from her injuries, Grace is already looking ahead. While she may never take on another race quite like the Mongol Derby, her adventurous spirit remains. With a goal of riding on every continent, she has just two left to conquer. And alongside those ambitions, she looks forward to a new chapter—marriage to her supportive fiancé and a return to the saddle when she’s healed.

Grace Netter’s journey is one of resilience, courage and quiet determination—a reminder that sometimes the most extraordinary paths begin with a simple, lifelong love.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

8:15 pm
Lifestyle • Education • Culture May

By Tracy Marcynzsyn | Photography by CSU Channel Islands

In honor of International Women’s Day, California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI) proudly hosted the 3rd annual Women’s Business Conference on Friday, March 6, 2026. Presented by the West Ventura County Business Alliance (WVCBA) in partnership with CSUCI, the sold-out event featured powerhouse keynote speakers sharing their stories of overcoming adversity to achieve their goals.

“We are thrilled to support this meaningful event that elevates women’s voices, shares leadership insights and cultivates connections across sectors,” said Susan Andrzejewski, CSUCI Interim President. “This conference reflects our commitment to fostering community partnerships and advancing opportunities for women in business and beyond.”

The Warrior Spirit: Graciela Casillas

“Lighting someone’s candle is not going to diminish yours,” stated keynote speaker Graciela Casillas, kicking off the conference with a message of abundance and unity. A four-time World Martial Arts Champion, celebrated mentor and advocate for confidence-building, Casillas shared her inspiring path to success in the “fight world”—a field historically dominated by men.

Aligned with the conference theme, “Rising Together,” Casillas spoke about the ironclad determination required to pursue one’s goals.

“Once you set your mind to something, do not allow anyone to distract or dissuade you,” she told the enraptured audience. “Surround yourself with people who are going to support you.”

Reflecting on her career, Casillas noted that being a woman was never a hindrance.

“Being a woman was not my limitation, it was my strength,” she declared. She challenged the notion that women in business must compete for a single seat at the table, noting that there is “a lot of room for everyone at the top.” She urged attendees to pivot from competition to sisterhood: “When women rise alone, it’s powerful; when we rise together, we’re unstoppable.”

Casillas’s resilience was forged in the ring and in the classroom. Growing up as one of eight children to parents from Mexico, she was raised with a relentless work ethic.

“My father would tell us to ‘get out and work; don’t be lazy,’” she recalled. Her mother was a pillar of strength who encouraged her to see education as a “tool for freedom.” Casillas took that advice to heart, earning two master’s degrees—one in Physical Education and another in Counseling and Guidance—all while juggling the demands of a young family as a single mother.

This lived experience led her to a profound realization about the corporate world.

“Motherhood is leadership,” she noted. “Who knows more about strategic foresight, crisis management, resource allocation, risk assessment and inclusive leadership than a mother?” She argued that these skills, often unappreciated or undervalued at home, are perfectly translatable to any profession.

Her ultimate advice to the women in the room was to stop seeking validation from external systems.

“Believe you can be a great leader and value yourself enough to not ask permission—at home or at work.” Casillas lived this by opening her own martial arts school and writing a book without waiting for an invitation. Facing obstacles in the fight world where promoters sometimes refused to let female fighters be photographed, she traveled the globe from Thailand to Hong Kong, using adversity as fuel. “In the martial arts academy, there is no problem without a solution. We’re here to help you!” she concluded, receiving a resounding standing ovation.

The Trailblazer’s Playbook: Sylvia Acevedo

The afternoon keynote featured Sylvia Acevedo, a transformational leader and former CEO of Girl Scouts of the USA, who shared her journey of “transforming possibility into probability.” Born in South Dakota and raised in Las Cruces, New Mexico, Acevedo’s early life was marked by hardship—living in a rental house on a dirt road with 11 people and only one bathroom.

“How did that girl grow up to be me?” she asked, reflecting on her path to becoming one of the first Hispanic students to earn an engineering degree from Stanford. Her journey began with a pilot Headstart program and a local Girl Scout troop. Because her family couldn’t afford the fees, she sold cookies, learning a lesson that would define her business career: “Never walk away from a sale until you hear a ‘no’ three times.”

Acevedo’s career at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) was a testament to “Clarity, courage and conviction.” When she first arrived, the facility lacked women’s restrooms; undeterred, she rode a bike to other buildings until a porta-potty was installed. Her tenure at IBM followed a similar pattern of initiative—she started by moving office furniture but constantly “raised her hand” for extra jobs. Her data-driven presentations eventually led to massive production increases and caught the attention of C-suite executives.

Beyond her corporate success at Apple, Autodesk and Dell, Acevedo spoke movingly about using gratitude and forgiveness to overcome family tragedy. She eventually returned to her roots at the Girl Scouts, where she engineered a “STEM revolution,” introducing cybersecurity and coding badges that have since been earned by over one million girls.

“Gratitude powers renewal,” she told the crowd, challenging them to consider how they, too, could add value to the world.

Practical Empowerment and Community Impact

Between the powerhouse keynotes, attendees engaged in a hands-on workshop led by Lindsey Carnett, CEO and President of Marketing Maven. Her session on “Mastering Your Personal Brand,” provided participants with the tools to communicate their unique value in a crowded marketplace.

Nicki Parr, CEO of Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV), moderated a dynamic panel of local leaders who explored the economic impact of women-led businesses. The session highlighted the importance of community engagement, with Jennifer Caldwell of Food Share of Ventura County serving as the event’s master of ceremonies.

The corporate community also showed strong support, with Stacy Sutton of Procter & Gamble, a conference sponsor, emphasizing the company’s commitment to being a partner in the region.

“Students are the future,” Sutton noted. “Learn, lead and make a difference.”

Closing Thoughts

As the conference drew to a close, the energy in the room was electric. Andy Conli, President and CEO of the WVCBA, summarized the event’s purpose: “This year’s theme, Rising Together, highlights stories of women who’ve overcome adversity to make an indelible impact on their businesses and communities.”

From the “underdog” mentality of the martial arts ring to the “rocket scientist” precision of the boardroom, the message of the day was clear: Through failure, we learn what to do differently, and through community, we find the strength to do it. The 3rd annual Women’s Business Conference at CSUCI didn’t just highlight achievements; it provided a roadmap for the next generation of leaders to build their own legacies without asking for permission.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

8:16 pm
May Publisher Letters

Publishers Letter

Robin Chesler, Publisher

I’ve always loved entertaining—not the “Come over for dinner” kind (that’s Ben’s department!)—but the kind that makes people laugh. Whether it’s telling a joke, sharing a story, singing in the backseat of my parents’ car all the way to Canada and back, or tossing in a perfectly timed funny comment, making people smile has always been my thing.

But the role I love most? The Fun Grammy.

I may not be ready for stand-up just yet, but my entertainment skills have found their perfect audience: my four grandkids. They’re captive, they laugh at my silly jokes and, best of all, they think I’m “cool.”

Whether we’re baking (my skills are limited but perfectly acceptable for the under-13 crowd), playing intense rounds of double solitaire and gin rummy with my fiercely competitive 11-year-old—who is funnier than she realizes—or belting out The Beatles songs and Broadway show tunes in the car while remembering every single word…I am, and always will be, the Fun Grammy.

Being with my grands brings out my joie de vivre. There’s no need to be serious—there’s enough of that in their daily lives, and that’s their parents’ job anyway. The joy of grandparenting is getting to indulge my silliness, share my stories and simply have fun.

We’ve raised our kids. Now we get the best reward of all—enjoying our grandkids.

And honestly…isn’t that what life is about?

10:36 pm
Arts • Entertainment May

Pacific Festival Ballet

At Cuizon Ballet Centre, our mission is to provide exceptional ballet training that instills passion and discipline in every dancer. We aim to create a nurturing environment where students can grow their skills and artistry.

2977 Willow Lane Suite 200, Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
805-494-8800 | cuizonballetcentre.com

Lesrn More about Cuizon Ballet Centre

By Tracy Marcynzsyn | Photography by Ben Malkin

Ballet brings a myriad of benefits for people of all ages. From a strong, flexible physique to increased brain function, the perks of practicing ballet leave a lasting impact on quality of life.

In addition to “flexibility, strength and balance, our brain functions differently after having a long-term amount of ballet,” explains Lisa Cuizon, founder of Cuizon Ballet Centre. “There are so many factors that go into ballet—listening to music, counting and recognizing patterns are all integral parts of ballet that are really good for the brain. The benefits are not just physical.”

As is often the case, learning under the guidance of an experienced, passionate teacher amplifies the positive effects of practicing this art.

“If you have good quality ballet teaching, you can modify the range for a layperson’s body and work in a range of where they’re at and build from there,” explains Lisa, a master dancer celebrating 25 years of teaching ballet to children and adults at her Westlake Village studio, Cuizon Ballet Centre.

“I’ve been teaching for 42 years,” she says with a smile, reflecting on her journey in the world of ballet, which started when she was just 7 years old.

“I decided I wanted to do ballet, and I begged and bugged my mom…I’ll never forget when she walked me across the street to the ballet studio and the front desk receptionist asked me how old I was,” Lisa shares. “I was 7; she told me I’d have to wait until I was 8. I remember walking back home and making my mom promise to take me back there on my 8th birthday!”

Lisa received her birthday wish and began training at the San Fernando Valley Balanchine-based school, “which would become quite a famous school but, unbeknownst to us, was directly affiliated with the New York City Ballet and gave scholarships to The School of American Ballet,” says Lisa. True to form, at 15, she received a ballet scholarship and flew to New York for the first time with her mother.

“Back in those days, a scholarship meant you had a full ride, per-diem and airline tickets. My mom found us an apartment in Columbus Circle near the school, and I’d walk there every day for 6 weeks—it was lifechanging for me,” she recalls.

Dancing professionally at age 18, Lisa sings the praises of her teachers, especially prima ballerina assoluta (exceptional dancer) Melissa Hayden of the New York City Ballet who trained under Balanchine himself.

“Melissa Hayden was a taskmaster like no other; I attribute my success at becoming a dancer to her; she was so hard and so demanding,” she shares, noting her privilege of training with “world famous teachers at the American School of Ballet, such as Stanley Williams—the greatest dancers of the world would flock to him—and Willy Burmann, a famous teacher, dear friend and mentor. I was so fortunate!”

Today, Lisa’s students are lucky to receive the benefits of such an icon’s teaching. While she loves her role as a teacher, Lisa notes that she had not planned on pursuing a teaching career.

“I really stumbled upon teaching,” says Lisa, sharing how she had offered to help a fellow dancer who felt too tired to teach a class after one of their daily 4-hour rehearsals. “I fell in love with being a teacher and found that I loved teaching as much as I loved being a ballet dancer.”

“I love being able to pass on the knowledge that I was given; I was given so much and I worked with some of the greatest teachers to live.”

Teaching classes at various schools throughout her five pregnancies, Lisa opened Cuizon Ballet Centre in 2001, with financial backing from the parents of her devoted students. As she celebrates the school’s 25th anniversary this May, Lisa marvels at her accomplishments, as well as those of her students.

“The beauty of ballet for the kids that do choose it as a steady practice is that they learn discipline, they learn focus, and how to overcome adversity; they see that you can have goals and you can achieve them if you put your mind to it and that you have to be committed…all of these lessons are so valuable in life,” she notes. “Some of my students have gone on to be professional dancers, doctors, surgeons and university professors…it’s really truly been incredible.”

Lisa’s small class sizes allow her to offer individual attention to every student.

“There are general corrections which are very important for everybody, and because I know all of my students, I know what needs to be worked on,” says Lisa, who also teaches adult ballet on Monday, Wednesday (10:30-11:30) and Saturday (10-11) mornings in addition to a full schedule of children and young adult classes.

“As we get older, the big fear is falling; ballet teaches balance with a focus on finding alignment in the body so you don’t injure yourself…adults, many of them in their 60s, are really taking advantage of what ballet can do for them,” notes Lisa, adding that the perception that ballet is an exclusive art is changing.

“There used to be a stigma that ballet was only for certain bodies, or for those who are young and flexible. It’s really changed, partly due to social media with people seeing other adults doing it.”

This July, Lisa offers her 25th season of Summer Intensive classes. Held 5 days a week, 3 hours daily, for 4 weeks, the training covers everything from body conditioning, Pilates, floor barre, ballet technique, pre-pointe, pointe and variations.

“Everybody who does my summer intensive comes out very amazing,” says Lisa. “It’s very focused; my goal is to see everybody improve and achieve their potential.”

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

9:11 pm
April Health • Wellness

SoCal Sleep Dentistry

30873 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard in Westlake Village
Tel: 818.864.0011 | SoCalSleepDentistry.com

Mon – Fri: 8 am – 5 pm
Sat – Sun: By Appointment Only

Learn More About SoCal Sleep Dentistry

Written By Alicia Doyle Photography provided

Investing in family can look like many things: lingering over dinner, holding space for tough conversations or sitting beside a loved one in a vulnerable moment. For husband-and-wife team Dr. Nina Rastegar and Dr. Daniel Kohanchi, it also looks like building a dental practice that feels like an extension of home, where anxious patients, children and entire families can receive care in an environment rooted in warmth, safety and trust.

SoCal Sleep Dentistry in Westlake Village feels less like a clinic and more like a refuge for people who have long feared the dentist’s chair. In their practice, the couple is redefining what it means to “go to the dentist” by combining advanced technology, full anesthesia services and a deeply personal, family-centered approach.

“To us, investing in family means creating a home filled with warmth, laughter and emotional safety while being intentional with presence,” says Dr. Rastegar. “Success outside the home means very little if the people inside the home don’t feel supported and seen.”

A different kind of dental visit

From the beginning, the couple’s mission was simple: change how people feel when they sit in a dental chair.

“At our core, we want dentistry to feel safe, calm and human,” says Dr. Rastegar. “There’s no rush, no judgment, just honest conversations and personalized care.” The practice is designed for patients of all ages, including those with dental anxiety, special needs, strong gag reflexes, complex medical histories or a history of traumatic dental experiences.

Becoming parents only deepened the way they approach those vulnerable moments.

“Our family is the foundation of how we care for people,” says Dr. Kohanchi. “Becoming parents reminded us that people aren’t just coming in for a service; they’re placing trust in you during a moment of discomfort.” That perspective shaped an environment built on patience, gentleness and genuine human connection, so people leave feeling cared for and at ease.

Their model blends comprehensive dentistry with in-house anesthesia, allowing patients to complete everything from routine cleanings to complex full-arch smile restorations in one place. The result is an atmosphere where fear and anxiety are replaced by trust, comfort and a sense of genuine care.

Technology in service of families

SoCal Sleep Dentistry is one of the rare practices that offers the full spectrum of anesthesia—from light sedation to hospital-grade general anesthesia—within a private dental office. As a board-certified dentist anesthesiologist, Dr. Kohanchi safely administers IV sedation, deep sedation and general anesthesia while Dr. Rastegar focuses on conservative, cosmetic and restorative dentistry.

“Our technology allows us to give patients faster, safer and more comfortable treatment,” says Dr. Kohanchi. “Everything we’ve invested in is for their benefit.”

That investment shows up in their state-of-the-art equipment. Digital scanners replace messy, gag-inducing molds, capturing precise 3D images of teeth, while 3D imaging (CBCT) supports detailed diagnostics and guided implant surgery. An in-office milling unit makes same-day crowns possible, and a 3D printer allows the team to fabricate nightguards, retainers and surgical guides—often the same day.

For families, this means fewer visits, less time off work or school and the ability to complete significant treatment in a single, carefully managed appointment.

“Balancing parenthood and a career isn’t about perfection—it’s about alignment,” says Dr. Rastegar. “When work reflects the same values practiced at home, everything feels more meaningful.”

Services families actually look forward to

Patients who have avoided the dentist for years often find their way to SoCal Sleep Dentistry seeking a fresh start. Popular services include sedation dentistry, preventive cleanings, in-office professional whitening, implants, full-arch restorations, same-day crowns and cosmetic smile makeovers, including veneers. Pediatric sedation dentistry is also a cornerstone of the practice, giving children who struggle in traditional settings a gentle, manageable way to receive care.

Their philosophy is simple: meet patients where they are.

“Whether someone needs a simple cleaning, cosmetic work or a full smile transformation under anesthesia, we meet every patient where they are,” says Dr. Kohanchi. “We guide them through their journey with compassion, honesty and expertise.”

As Dr. Rastegar adds, “Our mission is to help patients regain trust in dentistry and feel proud of their smiles again. We want to create a space where people feel genuinely cared for—where fear dissolves and confidence grows.”

A family caring for families

For Drs. Rastegar and Kohanchi, SoCal Sleep Dentistry is more than a business—it is an extension of their home life.

“We’re raising our children here. We care about this community, and our patients feel that,” says Dr. Rastegar. “We treat every person the way we would treat our own family.” Many patients become like extended family, returning year after year not just for the dentistry, but for the warmth and familiarity they find there.

When they talk about investing in family, they emphasize presence more than anything.

“Life gets busy, but having regular moments where everyone slows down—sharing a Shabbat meal, talking about the day or going on a family walk—gives a sense of connection and belonging,” says Dr. Kohanchi. “It’s less about any single tradition and more about creating space to consistently come back to each other.”

Those values shape the legacy they hope to pass on to their children.

“We hope our children grow up believing kindness and integrity are strengths, not weaknesses,” says Dr. Rastegar. “We want them to see that you can be ambitious and compassionate at the same time—that success isn’t measured by what you earn, but by how people feel around you.” She adds, “If they become adults who make others feel comfortable, respected and cared for, then we know we’ve done something right.”

“In many ways, the office is an extension of home: welcoming, calm and built on trust,” says Dr. Kohanchi. For those who thought they would never feel comfortable at the dentist, SoCal Sleep Dentistry offers something rare: a place where fear fades, confidence grows and every smile is given the time and attention it deserves.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved