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Home / Articles Posted by Tracy Marcynzsyn (Page 4)

8:52 pm
Giving Back

Coalition for Family Harmony

1000 Town Center Drive, Suite 500, Oxnard, CA 93036

Tel: 805.983.6014 | thecoalition.org

Coalition for Family Harmony provides direct services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault; to educate the community regarding violence against women, children, and men; to prevent the cycle of violence.

Learn More About About Coalition for Family Harmony

Article by Tracy Marcynzsyn
Photos provided.

For 5 decades, the Coalition for Family Harmony has been a lifeline for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault across Ventura County. Founded by a small group of dedicated volunteers who began with a simple phone line in their homes, the organization has grown into a full-service agency that provides comprehensive, compassionate and culturally competent care for individuals and families in crisis.

Today, under the leadership of Executive Director Dr. Caroline Prijatel-Sutton, the Coalition offers a continuum of services that support clients from the moment of crisis through the healing journey. Programs include 24/7 emergency and transitional housing, rape crisis intervention, counseling, legal and medical assistance, education and outreach, and advocacy. The organization’s holistic approach ensures that every survivor—regardless of gender, age or background—receives the resources and support needed to rebuild their life.

“While more women statistically report domestic violence and sexual assault, we serve women, men, children and entire families,” says Dr. Prijatel-Sutton. “Our mission is to meet the needs of the community by providing programs that are effective, inclusive and sustainable.”

One of the Coalition’s distinguishing features is its commitment to creating programs that fill critical gaps in local services. The organization operates Ventura County’s only Rape Crisis Center and an Indigenous shelter staffed by trilingual advocates, ensuring survivors from diverse communities receive culturally sensitive care. By partnering with local agencies and service providers, the Coalition maximizes resources to ensure every client’s needs are met.

As the Coalition celebrates its 50th anniversary, it reflects on its remarkable journey—from a grassroots movement to a countywide leader in crisis response and prevention. What began as a single hotline has evolved into an integrated network of lifesaving services that touches thousands of lives each year.

Looking ahead, the organization remains focused on expanding its impact and advocating for a safer, more compassionate community.

“We are proud of our history, but even more excited about the future,” says Dr. Prijatel-Sutton. “Our goal is to continue serving Ventura County with excellence for the next 50 years and beyond.”

The Coalition will host its annual Denim Day fundraiser on April 29, 2026, inviting the community to stand in solidarity with survivors and support its mission of healing and empowerment.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

9:53 pm
Lifestyle • Education • Culture

Written By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Photography provided

For Rosemary Allison, giving back to the community isn’t just something she does — it’s who she is. A longtime Santa Rosa Valley resident and one of Ventura County’s most respected Realtors, Rosemary has spent decades pairing professional excellence with a deep commitment to philanthropy, public service and leadership.

As an elected member of the Santa Rosa Valley Municipal Advisory Council, Rosemary has overseen projects ranging from the creation of a local equestrian and hiking park to the installation of traffic lights that improved neighborhood safety. She also helped establish the Santa Rosa Valley Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), which connects residents with vital updates on fires, mountain lion sightings and local crimes while maintaining supplies to assist during natural disasters.

Her dedication to public safety and civic engagement is matched by her philanthropy. Rosemary serves on the Board of For The Troops, a nonprofit that ships 2,000 “We Care” packages to deployed service members every month. For the past 7 years, she has chaired the organization’s annual gala at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, raising essential funds to cover nearly $30,000 in monthly postage costs. She has also championed fundraising for the American Cancer Society, YMCA and countless local schools and youth sports programs.

This commitment has earned her numerous accolades, including

  • Woman of the Year 2024, bestowed by Senator Henry Stern, who praised her “lifelong dedication to bringing people together for the greater good.”
  • 2025 marked her Golden Jubilee Year, commemorating 5 decades as one of Ventura County’s most respected and consistently top-performing Realtors.
  • First Annual Supervisorial Leadership & Excellence Award (2025), honoring her outstanding leadership and service to Ventura County.
  • City of Thousand Oaks Community Service Award (2025), recognizing her lasting impact through real estate, civic service, CERT and nonprofit work.
  • Volunteer of the Year, Ventura County (2010 National Philanthropy Day), awarded by the Association of Fundraising Professionals and American Cancer Society after she chaired a gala that raised more than $225,000 for cancer research and programs.
  • The Conejo Simi Moorpark Board of Realtors Community Service Award.
  • Multiple reader-voted honors as Best Realtor, including 8 consecutive years in the Los Angeles Daily Newsand repeated wins from the Ventura County Star, VC Reporter and Thousand Oaks Acorn.
  • National recognition by The Wall Street Journalas one of the Top 250 Realtors in the United States.

Rosemary’s path to service was shaped early on.

“Growing up, my parents instilled in me the value of service and reminded me that true success is measured by the impact we leave on others,” she explains. Later, in real estate, she saw firsthand how deeply life-changing a move could be for a family — and realized her work could extend far beyond contracts to touch lives in meaningful ways.

Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: The big secret to my success is that there is no big secret,” Rosemary says. “Whatever your goal, you can get there if you’re willing to work. You get out of life what you have the courage to put into it.”

When she was 21, she was so worried about getting married and “starting” life.

“What I know now is that each and every wrong turn in life can still lead you to where you want to go,” she emphasizes. “The road to success is always under construction. Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.”

For Rosemary, the ultimate goal has never been recognition, but inspiration. She hopes her efforts encourage others to give of themselves, to strengthen the bonds of community and to create a legacy of generosity that endures for generations to come.

Beyond Rosemary’s own story, her devotion to service is mirrored by her family. Her daughter, Cristina, and son, Joe, have each carved their own paths as passionate philanthropists—extending the family legacy of generosity, civic engagement and leadership into a new generation.

United by shared values and a drive to uplift others, Rosemary’s family continues to shape their community, proving that compassion and service are woven deeply into their lives. The following sections shine a light on Cristina and Joe’s unique contributions and the growing impact of Ventura County’s family of philanthropists.

Dr. Cristina Markiewicz: A Life of Service and Leadership

For Dr. Cristina Markiewicz, service is not simply part of her career—it is the foundation of her life. As the owner of Newbury Park Dental Arts, she blends a passion for dentistry with a deep commitment to giving back, creating lasting impact both within the Conejo Valley and beyond.

“Giving back has always been central to my life,” she affirms, a sentiment that defines both her mission and her legacy.

At her practice, Dr. Cristina is dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality care while continually investing in advanced technology and ongoing education for her patients and team. Yet her influence extends far beyond the dental chair.

She has served as president of the Conejo Valley Academy of Dentistry, a nonprofit devoted to mentorship, collaboration and continuing education for local dentists. Today, she continues shaping the profession as a member of the California Dental Association’s Board of Managers, helping set the course for patient care and professional standards statewide.

Her community involvement is equally robust. Dr. Cristina has held leadership roles as Event Chair for the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life, contributed to numerous ACS galas, and supported initiatives such as the For The Troops gala. She has chaired California Lutheran University’s Community Leaders Association Hats & High Tea and led the Westlake Village Women’s Club, raising funds for organizations including Conejo Free Clinic, Many Mansions, Temple Adat and Cancer Fit. Her generosity bridges diverse causes and communities, strengthening families and local connections.

Her service also spans across borders. On a mission trip to Fiji, she provided essential dental care and education to underserved populations. In San Francisco, she organized outreach efforts for Project Homeless Connect, ensuring those most vulnerable had access to critical services.

Recognition has followed her work. Named one of the Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce’s “40 Under Forty” and honored with the prestigious Dugoni Service Award, Dr. Cristina remains grounded in her inspiration: her mother.

“My philanthropic heart was inspired early in life by my mother, who taught me the importance of generosity, relationships and service. Watching her treat clients like family and give back to the community shaped my values,” she reflects.

Mentorship and collaboration remain at the core of her vision for the future.

“True leadership means lifting others up—patients, colleagues and future generations of dentists alike,” she says. Her goal is to create a ripple effect of support, education and care, fostering communities where people feel valued, supported and inspired.

Ultimately, she believes that success is meant to be shared. Whether through her dental practice, nonprofit leadership or community outreach, Dr. Cristina approaches every role with unwavering commitment.

“Dentistry is more than a profession to me—it’s a calling and a way to make a difference every single day.”

Joe Markiewicz: Philanthropic Leader Strengthening Conejo Valley

Joe Markiewicz, a real estate agent based in Santa Rosa Valley, stands out as one of Conejo Valley’s most dedicated community leaders, blending hands-on involvement with heartfelt inspiration from family.

“I serve as a board member on the Ventura County Sheriff’s Foundation and act as the Firewise contact for my neighborhood. Over the years, I’ve been actively involved in community cleanup efforts, safety initiatives and supporting programs that strengthen the bond between law enforcement and our residents,” says Joe, whose reputation as a generous neighbor is grounded in visible results and ongoing commitment.

Joe’s presence is felt across countless local initiatives, whether championing brush clearance campaigns for fire safety or serving as the neighborhood Firewise captain.

“I’ve been recognized for my community cleanup work and was honored as part of the 40 Under 40 awards, highlighting leadership and impact in the local community,” he shares, reflecting on accolades from the Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce and the County of Ventura. Joe is also a driving force behind major events like Coppers and Choppers and the Shop with a Cop Children’s charity, always seeking ways to enrich the environment for families and first responders.

For Joe, the heart of Conejo Valley lies in its “sense of community, the beautiful open spaces and trails, and the farmland that gives our area such a unique character. It’s a place where neighbors know one another, families thrive and nature is always close by.” 

The married father of two daughters credits his passion for service to his family roots.

“My inspiration comes directly from my mom. Growing up, I saw her give so much of herself to others, and it left a lasting impression on me. Giving back became part of our family fabric. My sister Cristina also shares that same heart for service, and together we’ve continued the tradition of contributing wherever we can.”

Joe’s philanthropic goal is simple but profound.

“My ultimate goal is to create a positive impact that strengthens and sustains the community—whether through safety, service or simply showing up for one another. I want to help ensure that Ventura County remains a place where families feel supported, connected and proud to call home.” 

Whether organizing safety campaigns, fostering neighborly connections or volunteering at charity events, Joe says, “beyond my professional and philanthropic commitments, I find joy in fostering connections—whether it’s through community events, local organizations or just being there to lend a hand. At the end of the day, it’s about leaving things better than how I found them and setting an example for the next generation.”

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

11:34 pm
Arts • Entertainment December

Illustrator John Hanley

By combining John Hanley’s love of sports and movies with his artistic talent, he has achieved his current success, painting athletes, celebrities, and the legends of today and yesterday. His dedication to excellence in capturing sports heroes in their finest moments and documenting celebrities in their on-screen roles is John’s passion.

johnhanleyartist@mac.com
(815) 546-4508 | johnhanleyartist.com

Learn More about Illustrator John Hanley

Article and Photography by John Hanley

As a boy, I dreamed of playing professional baseball. If I wasn’t throwing a ball, I was sketching. Drawing and painting have been part of my life for as long as I can remember, a passion that only deepened as I grew older. The true spark came from two cousins whose creativity left a lasting impression: one a gifted draftsman, the other a talented woodworker. Their imagination and craftsmanship lit a fire in me, and what began as childhood curiosity grew into a lifelong devotion—one that has defined not only my career but also my identity as an artist. While baseball was my childhood dream, art ultimately became my destiny.

My art has always been a form of storytelling, shaped through dramatic light, color and shadow. My work has consistently centered on people and their stories. I am drawn to subjects with a dynamic presence—pop culture icons, accomplished athletes and figures whose character tells a tale. Throughout the years, I have found inspiration in recurring themes of movement, expressive poses and dramatic lighting, all of which reveal both energy and emotion. Painting people in the prime of their lives is particularly inspiring to me. I see those years as a time when the human spirit shines at its best, and capturing that strength on canvas feels both powerful and timeless.

My palette is as much about mood as it is about color. I often work with gray, blue, sienna and red tones, but it is lighting that brings my work to life. I am inspired by watching the sun break through clouds or a single beam of light pouring into a room. I am fascinated by the interplay of light and shadow, using both not only to create perspective but also to add layers of meaning. Strong contrasts between light and dark can create a sense of mystery, drama or tension, while gentle light evokes warmth and serenity. For me, the mood of a painting begins with my voice as the artist, but it is always completed by the interpretation of the viewer.

Over the years, my work has also become a tribute to the masters who inspired me: Bernie Fuchs, Maxfield Parrish, Frank Frazetta, Burt Silverman and Bart Forbes. Each infused their art with a balance of realism, imagination and narrative, and I strive to carry that same spirit into my own practice. As I matured as an artist, my style has become looser and bolder. I have learned to take risks, to embrace imperfections and to see mistakes not as setbacks but as opportunities. Many of my most meaningful breakthroughs happen during the act of creating, not before it.

At its core, my art and my inspiration are about people, light and story. Whether I am capturing the intensity of an athlete in motion or the quiet strength of a figure in shadow, I aim to create work that feels alive. My paintings invite viewers to pause, to look closer and to imagine. For me, art is always a shared journey: I set the stage through intention, style and choice, but it is the viewer who completes the story. That conversation—between artist and audience—is what makes art enduring and endlessly powerful.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

10:51 pm
December Giving Back

Operation Blankets of Love

16911 San Fernando Mission
PO Box # 187 Granada Hills, CA 91344

Tel: 818.402.6586 | obol.info

Operation Blankets of Love (OBOL) is a nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to improving the well-being of homeless animals. We provide life-saving supplies—such as food, blankets, and medical aid—to animal rescues, shelters, and pets of the homeless, ensuring that every animal gets a second chance at a safe and loving life.

Learn More About About Operation Blankets of Love

Article by Tracy Marcynzsyn
Photos provided.

Eighteen years ago, Eileen Smulson witnessed something that changed her life—and the lives of countless animals. While visiting a local shelter, she saw puppies trembling from cold, lying on hard concrete floors with no blankets or comfort. It was a moment that sparked a mission. Eileen, who had never owned a pet until age 50, had recently adopted a 4-month-old mutt named Ginger. That deep bond with her first dog inspired her to take action.

With the help of her husband Brad, who now serves as Director of Operations, Eileen launched Operation Blankets of Love (OBOL), an animal welfare emergency nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of homeless animals by providing essential supplies like blankets, food and support to shelters, rescue groups and foster caregivers.

Starting its 18th year in January 2026, OBOL continues to grow and impact communities across California, Baja Mexico, Southeast Asia, China and the Caribbean Islands. The organization donates monthly to approximately 50 animal welfare groups, providing lifesaving supplies not just for dogs and cats, but also for wildlife and farm animal sanctuaries.

“Shelters don’t have a budget for basic comfort items like blankets or towels. So many rescue groups depend on us for food and other critical pet supplies.” says Eileen. “That’s where we come in.”

To date, OBOL has donated to 122 shelters and over 1,055 animal rescues. Their work helps homeless animals get stronger, healthier and more adoptable—giving them a better chance at finding loving forever homes.

But OBOL’s mission goes beyond material donations. They are deeply committed to education and outreach, promoting humane treatment and responsible pet ownership through their Humane Education Learning Program. More than 10,000 children have learned about compassion and animal welfare through OBOL’s school and youth group visits.

The organization also supports pets of the homeless, plus veterans, seniors and low-income pet owners, helping ensure that no animal is surrendered due to temporary hardship.

“We want to keep people and their pets together,” says Brad. “No one should have to give up their beloved companion because they can’t afford food or supplies.”

OBOL operates every day, collecting and distributing the essentials that make a real difference. Their impact is possible thanks to the support of caring individuals who donate pet items or financial contributions. With so many organizations relying on their help, Operation Blankets of Love always needs food, blankets and other pet essentials. Whether you’re an animal lover, teacher or simply someone who wants to make a difference, your support helps OBOL continue its life-saving work.

Together, we can help to save the lives of homeless animals and give each one a chance at comfort, care and a loving home.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

8:45 pm
Arts • Entertainment December

Pacific Festival Ballet 

Resident Ballet Company at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center. Pacific Festival Ballet is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. 

​2282 Townsgate Road, Suites 4/5/6, Westlake Village, CA 91361 

Tel: (805) 906-2087 |  pacfestballet.org

CLICK HERE: Learn More About Pacific Festival Ballet

“The Nutcracker Ballet” is a holiday tradition beloved by communities around the world, and for 31 years, Pacific Festival Ballet has brought that same cherished experience to the Conejo Valley. Each December, young audience members at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center watch in awe as Clara’s magical Christmas Eve dream unfolds on stage.

Last season, Ailis Kinney—a pre-professional ballerina from Pacific Festival Ballet’s training school, California Dance Theatre—was awarded the coveted role of Clara. Her lifelong dream of dancing alongside ballet superstar Tiler Peck from New York City Ballet came true. This year, the magic continues as Ailis’s younger sister, Ronan, steps into the very same role.

“As a child, I danced multiple roles with Pacific Festival Ballet and only dreamt of one day performing as Clara beside Ms. Peck,” Ailis shares. “Not only did my dream come true, but now my sister has the chance to share and cherish the same experience.”

Both sisters have trained daily at California Dance Theatre and performed in Pacific Festival Ballet productions for more than a decade. Taking on the role of Clara is no small feat. Each year, auditions seek dancers who possess a rare blend of skill, artistry and heart.

“The requirements for this role are vast,” explains Artistic Director Kim Maselli. “Our Claras are typically 15 to 17 years old. They must be technically strong, emotionally expressive and able to carry the audience on a journey from beginning to end. Because of the role’s demands, we always award the part to two deserving ballerinas.”

This season, another pre-professional dancer, Lisa Wilson, will share the spotlight as Clara.

“I’m beyond thrilled,” says Lisa. “It’s every little girl’s dream to be Clara. As a graduating senior, I’m honored to perform this role and excited to see where the journey leads me.”

Over the years, many former Claras from Pacific Festival Ballet have gone on to professional careers with companies such as San Francisco Ballet, American Midwest Ballet, Grand Rapids Ballet and Cincinnati Ballet. For each of them, dancing Clara was more than a role—it was a stepping stone toward realizing their dreams.

This December, the Civic Arts Plaza will once again fill with families celebrating the timeless tradition of “The Nutcracker.” And perhaps, somewhere in the audience, one little girl will be inspired to dream big. With talent, hard work and passion, dreams really do come true!

Join Pacific Festival Ballet for the magic of “The Nutcracker,” December 19–21, at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center in Thousand Oaks.

Tickets are available through the Box Office or Ticketmaster.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

6:34 pm
December Lifestyle • Education • Culture

Carden Conejo School

106 W Janss Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Tel: (805) 497-7005 | cardenconejo.com
Hours:
Monday 8 AM–4 PM
Tuesday 8 AM–4 PM
Wednesday 8 AM–4 PM
Thursday 8 AM–4 PM
Friday 8 AM–4 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

For nearly 60 years, Carden Conejo School has proudly served families from the Conejo Valley and surrounding communities, offering an enriching, non-sectarian education for students in preschool through sixth grade.

CLICK HERE: Learn More About Carden Conejo School

Article Provided. Photography Courtesy of Carden Conejo and Ben Malkin

Carden Conejo School, a private, nonsectarian institution long known for its nurturing preschool and elementary programs, is expanding its academic offerings with the launch of sixth grade beginning Fall 2026. This milestone marks the first step toward completing a full Preschool–8th grade continuum and is a centerpiece of the school’s 2025–2030 Strategic Plan.

The new sixth grade represents the first phase of a broader middle school expansion and reflects the school’s long-term commitment to academic excellence, character development and joyful, whole-child learning. The addition of sixth grade will be followed by seventh and eighth grade in subsequent years, completing the Preschool–8th program by the 2028–2029 school year.

Families interested in learning more about the middle school expansion and admissions opportunities are encouraged to visit CardenConejo.com or contact the office directly at 805.497.7005.

About Carden Conejo School

Founded in 1971 by the founders of Viewpoint School in Calabasas, Carden Conejo School offers a developmentally rich preschool program, alongside an academically rigorous elementary and middle school curriculum grounded in the classical Carden Method.

To celebrate this exciting chapter, the school hosted a community ribbon-cutting ceremony in partnership with the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce in October. The public event and included remarks from school leadership and community leaders.

“We are thrilled to continue growing our program in a way that reflects our mission and values,” says Head of School Colleen Mendez. “The expansion into middle school allows us to offer a seamless educational journey and greater opportunities for growth during these formative years. Parents want to know their children are seen, known and challenged and Carden delivers on that promise with both heart and rigor.”

The sixth-grade launch builds on nearly 60 years of tradition and innovation at Carden Conejo School. The Carden Method is a classical, language-rich, phonics-based approach that helps children develop clarity of thought, confidence in communication, and a lifelong appreciation for literature.

With long-tenured teachers and small classes, Carden balances rigorous academics with joy, creativity, and social-emotional growth—preparing students to excel in higher education and beyond.

The middle school curriculum will extend this foundation with the following offerings:

  • STEM and Robotics programs that emphasize hands-on, project-based science and technology
  • World language instruction with French beginning in preschool and Latin integrated into grammar study in middle school
  • Leadership and service opportunities that emphasize character, compassion and community engagement
  • A robust life-skills curriculum that equips students with practical independence (budgeting, public speaking, civic engagement and decision-making) alongside the soft skills of confidence, adaptability and collaboration

“This is about more than expanding a grade level,” adds Mendez. “It’s about deepening our promise to families—to walk with students on their journey as they grow into scholars, servant-leaders and compassionate contributors to their communities.”

Families interested in learning more about the middle school expansion and admissions opportunities are encouraged to visit CardenConejo.com or contact the office directly at 805.497.7005.

About Carden Conejo School

Founded in 1971 by the original founders of Viewpoint School in Calabasas, Carden Conejo School offers a developmentally rich preschool program, alongside an academically rigorous elementary and middle school curriculum grounded in the classical Carden Method.

With small class sizes, specialist instruction, and a whole-child approach to education, the school nurtures confident learners and compassionate leaders who are prepared to engage the world with empathy and purpose.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

10:39 pm
December Health • Wellness

Conejo Valley Med Spa

28912 Roadside Drive, Suite 105, Agoura Hills, CA 91301
Tel: (805) 871-1811| conejovalleymedspa.com

Hours: By Appointment Only
Mon-Fri 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sat 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday Closed

Our medical spa services are aimed to protect, preserve, and enhance your most natural beauty. 

CLICK HERE: Conejo Valley Med Spa

Written By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Photography By Violeta Meyners

Nestled in the heart of Agoura Hills at the Whizin Market Square, Conejo Valley Med Spa is a warm, welcoming destination for those seeking to rejuvenate their appearance and restore inner confidence. Founded by Sofia Eselin, a seasoned aesthetic nurse with over 15 years of experience, this growing med spa recently moved into a beautiful new 700-square-foot suite—Suite 105—offering three cozy treatment rooms, right next to the Canyon Club.

“We love our new space,” Sofia shares. “It’s the perfect size, and we’ve created an environment where our clients feel content, comfortable and cared for.”

A Personal Passion for Skincare and Wellness

Sofia’s path into aesthetics began in a dermatology office where she trained on over 15 different lasers and treatments. She also spent years as a neonatal intensive care nurse—an experience that shaped her meticulous attention to patient safety and care.

“I love the science behind aging,” says Sofia, who is also a mom of two and understands the time crunch many of her clients face. “We help busy professionals and moms feel their best inside and out.”

Regenerative Aesthetics: Natural Results, Expert Care

At the spa, clients benefit from a team of experienced professionals, including Rebecca Anderson, a laser skin care specialist with 18 years of nursing experience; Giselle, a dedicated patient care coordinator; and Dr. Richard Park, the medical director overseeing patient care. Monthly specials make luxury more accessible, including $10 Botox units and $100 off dermal fillers for new clients, and complimentary consultations in December.

One of the spa’s most popular services is facial balancing with fillers, which offers a subtle “liquid facelift” for those seeking instant results with a natural look. For clients investing in long-term skin health, microneedling, collagen stimulation and PRF/PRP (Liquid Gold) are recommended to trigger the body’s own regenerative processes.

“Liquid Gold treatments work wonderfully for dark under-eye circles and overall rejuvenation,” Sofia explains. “We’re also excited to bring in laser treatments soon for pigmentation and skin resurfacing.”

The spa also offers PDO thread lifts, a nonsurgical treatment to lift and firm sagging skin. Over time, the absorbable threads stimulate collagen, resulting in tighter, more youthful skin. For those experiencing hair thinning or loss, PRF-based treatments use your own platelets and growth factors to stimulate hair regrowth and scalp health.

Whole-Body Wellness

Sofia emphasizes that beauty starts from within. That’s why IV therapies—such as glutathione and NAD+—are available to help clients boost energy, detoxify and improve cellular health from the inside out.

With a warm, family friendly atmosphere and a deep commitment to wellness and education, Conejo Valley Med Spa is more than a beauty destination—it’s a place to reconnect with your radiance, confidence and vitality.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

11:41 pm
Health • Wellness

K Glow Studio

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

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

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

CLICK HERE: Learn More About Glow Studio

Written By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Photography By Provided

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

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

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

Q: What services do you offer?

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

Q: What is unique about K Glow Studio?

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

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

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

Q: Are you offering any reader specials?

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

Sidebar
K Glow Studio Services

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

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

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

Korean Exfoliating Body Scrub: Includes facial and hair

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

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

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

5:58 pm
Events Giving Back

Hosted by Five07 Coffee along with volunteers from area nonprofits

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

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

Written By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Photography provided

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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10:36 pm
Lifestyle • Education • Culture

Oaks Christian School

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

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

CLICK HERE: Learn More About Oaks Christian School

Written By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Photography provided

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

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

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

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

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

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

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