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Home / Articles Posted by Tracy Marcynzsyn (Page 5)

6:33 pm
Health • Wellness

FirstLight Home Care

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

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

CLICK HERE: Learn More About FirstLight Home Care

Photography By Provided

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

6:32 pm
Lifestyle • Education • Culture

Ilene’s Boutique

Find boutique clothing for every taste, style, and personality. Ilene has a flair for making you feel fabulous!

1145 Lindero Canyon Road, Westlake Village, CA 91362
805.373.6633 | Instagram shopilensboutique
Store Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10 am-6 pm

CLICK HERE: Follow Ilene's Boutique on Instagram

By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Photography by Hannah Gross

That perfect pair of jeans, favorite sweater, or fashionable blazer that pulls it all together—wearing clothes that make you look good ensures you feel great too. Finding those special pieces to complement and complete your unique style is the forte of the style mavens at Ilene’s Boutique in Westlake Village, headed by Owner Ilene Stern.

“We want to make you feel magical because when you look good, you feel good,” says Ilene, who leads a team of dedicated stylists specializing in elevating customers’ style for more than 34 years and counting! From fancy and formal to business and casual wear—even pajamas—Ilene’s Boutique offers Fashion finds to fit any style.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

8:32 pm
Home • Design

Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design

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

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

CLICK HERE Learn more about Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design

Provided

With our enviable weather, barbecue season lasts the year round.  There’s no better way to celebrate the outdoors than by firing up the grill. If you are looking to elevate your grilling game, look no further than the premium outdoor cooking equipment from Twin Eagles and Delta Heat. These exceptional brands are made here in Southern California and are available at Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design…your outdoor gatherings are about to get a major upgrade

Twin Eagles: Known for its striking aesthetic and high-quality craftsmanship, this high-end equipment is designed with the serious griller in mind. These grills embody the perfect fusion of performance and style. Each unit is constructed from durable stainless steel, ensuring it withstands the test of time while delivering top-notch grilling results. The powerful infrared burner heats up quickly and evenly, allowing you to achieve those coveted grill marks on your chops, steaks and burgers.

Now, let’s turn our attention to Delta Heat… a Twin Eagles product and another fantastic option that Thousand Oaks Fireside offers. Crafted with the same passion for quality, what is remarkable about this equipment is its commitment to affordability without sacrificing performance. These grills provide powerful cooking capabilities featuring heavy-duty stainless steel construction, an impressive BTU rating, and a unique grilling surface that ensures superior heat retention. You can expect your food to come off the grill perfectly cooked every time

The sleek design of the Delta Heat line makes it a beautiful addition to any outdoor space. Each grill comes equipped with LED-lit control knobs and halogen interior lighting for nighttime grilling sessions, a feature that adds not just practicality, but also a touch of modern elegance to your backyard. The side burners are a perfect companion for whipping up sauces or sautéing veggies while the main course is grilling away.

Both Twin Eagles and Delta Heat equipment represent the pinnacle of quality in outdoor cooking. When shopping at Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design, you’re not just purchasing a barbecue, you’re investing in an experience that brings family and friends together. The knowledgeable staff will help guide you through the selection and design process, ensuring you find the equipment that best suits your cooking style and outdoor entertaining needs.

Whether you are a grilling pro or novice, a visit to Thousand Oaks Fireside and Design to see the Twin Eagles and Delta Heat line will be your first step in transforming your outdoor grilling experience. Get ready to gather around the grill and share laughter, stories and food that will transform into delicious memories to last a lifetime.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

9:56 pm
Home • Design

Cat in a Hammock

Outdoor Spaces Are More Than Just Landscape. Bespoke outdoor spaces that reflect your lifestyle, invite connection, and bring everyday peace home. Serving Thousand Oaks and the surrounding area

275 East Hillcrest Dr. Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
(805) 263-4200 | catinahammock.com

CLICK HERE: Learn About Cat In a Hammock

By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Designing beautiful spaces that reflect the unique style and function of every family inspires Kristina Jones, who founded Cat in a Hammock, to do just that.

Kristina’s full-service design and construction firm has the expertise to bring clients’ visions to life, from the initial glimmer of an idea to the final touches of the completed project.

“I especially love when clients share how their new backyard has changed their everyday life. It’s no longer just a yard—it’s a sanctuary, a gathering place, an extension of their home. That’s deeply rewarding,” shares Kristina, noting that creating the ideal space starts with inspiration.

“I always recommend that clients explore Pinterest, Houzz or even pull pages from magazines. It costs nothing to start dreaming. Don’t worry about whether it fits your space or your budget just yet—this is your time to gather visual ideas that stir something in you. Think of it as building a mood board for your lifestyle: textures, colors, garden moments, architectural elements. Give yourself the freedom to explore without editing. That’s where the magic begins,” says Kristina, who finds her own source of inspiration in natural settings.

“Botanical gardens have always been a wellspring of inspiration for me. Whether it’s Lotusland, Descanso Gardens or a tucked-away estate abroad, I make it a point to observe how nature is framed, layered and allowed to speak,” she says, adding, “I recently visited Casa del Herrero in Montecito to refill my creative well. I love blending classical and modern influences—creating spaces that feel rooted in tradition, yet fresh and relevant.”

Exploring the Process

Meeting with clients to discuss their goals enables Cat in a Hammock to formulate a well-designed plan.

“Our consultations are deeply personal and tailored to each family,” explains Kristina. “We begin by exploring lifestyle—how our clients live, entertain, relax and connect at home. Are there children or pets? Do they host large gatherings or prefer an intimate retreat? This discovery shapes the functionality of the space before we even touch the design.”

The next step involves the artistic elements: “We then begin layering in aesthetics—materials, mood and color palettes that speak to the home’s architecture and the client’s taste. Many clients share inspiration boards they’ve curated over time, and it becomes a collaborative design conversation,” shares Kristina. Once a realistic budget is set—”we help prioritize features, select premium materials strategically, and craft a plan that reflects value and intention”—the design phase begins, transforming vision into detailed 3D renderings.

“We manage every detail in-house: engineering, permitting, materials, project management and of course, the build itself. It’s a full-service experience with a single point of contact from concept to completion,” she says, noting her satisfaction with a job well done.

“Each phase brings its own joy. The design process is imaginative and intimate, the build phase is tangible and gratifying, and the final reveal is where it all comes full circle.”

Kristina invites homeowners to explore how Cat in a Hammock can add style and elegance to enhance their home and lifestyle.

“We’re more than a design-build firm—we’re storytellers of outdoor living. We care deeply about our clients’ experience, and we’re here to create timeless, soulful spaces that elevate how they live,” says Kristina. “Beauty matters, but it’s how a space makes you feel—and how it supports the way you live—that makes it meaningful.”

Project Portfolio

Incorporating new landscaping, lighting and grass transformed this space, featuring a modern Spanish-style cabana, outdoor fireplace, and kitchen set against white stucco and arched architecture, into a year-round retreat. The design phase took about a month, followed by permitting and HOA approval; the project was completed in just under 3 months. Redesigning the pool with new glass tile and water features and adding a custom fire feature, two large pergolas and an arbor, plus a dining space to accommodate a large extended family, reimagined a tired and dated backyard. The result was so successful, they hosted a family wedding just weeks after completion!

 

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

9:33 pm
Lifestyle • Education • Culture

By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Photography by Robin Chesler

The Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce hosted a Business Expo and Networking Mixer at the Palm Garden Hotel, featuring local businesses, service organizations, and restaurants. There were 58 very busy exhibitors presenting their wares and services to the Conejo Valley community.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

1:37 am
Events Food • Beverage

Join the Kiwanis Club of Thousand Oaks Charitable Foundation at its inaugural Kiwanis Corks and Kegs event, October 9 at The Gardens at Los Robles Greens.

This inaugural event merges two of the Kiwanis Club’s most successful events—Conejo Uncorked and TO BrewFest—into an unforgettable celebration. Enjoy an array of fine wines, craft beers and exquisite local cuisine while supporting charitable causes in the community. Event proceeds will directly support Kiwanis programs and initiatives, dedicated to enriching the lives of children and families in the community.

This inaugural event merges two of the Kiwanis Club’s most successful events—Conejo Uncorked and TO BrewFest—into an unforgettable celebration. Enjoy an array of fine wines, craft beers and exquisite local cuisine while supporting charitable causes in the community. Event proceeds will directly support Kiwanis programs and initiatives, dedicated to enriching the lives of children and families in the community.

“We’ve had great community support for BrewFest and Conejo Uncorked over the years, and now Corks and Kegs in the Gardens on a beautiful fall evening—what could be better for our patrons and for our community?” says Kiwanis President Robin Britt.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a beer enthusiast or simply a lover of great food, this event promises to delight your palate while making a meaningful impact. Attendees must be 21 and over.

Mark your calendars for this incredible event, October 9, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Gardens at Los Robles Greens, 299 S Moorpark Road in Thousand Oaks.

Visit Corks-and-Kegs.com for more information and tickets. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

10:01 pm
Arts • Entertainment

California Dance Theatre

With over 30 teachers on staff, CDT offers dance classes to students of all ages and levels — from children to adults, beginners to professionals — in ballet, lyrical, contemporary, modern, tap, musical theatre, jazz, acro, and hip-hop.

2282 Townsgate Road, Suites 4, 5, 6, Westlake Village, CA 91361
Tel: (805) 906-2087 |  caldancetheatre.com

CLICK HERE: Learn More About California Dance Theatre

California Dance Theatre, in the heart of Westlake Village, proudly celebrates its 40th season of inspiring dancers across the greater Conejo Valley. Since opening its doors in 1985, the studio has remained a cornerstone of the local arts community—an enduring space where creativity, discipline and joy come to life through movement.

Founded by Joyce Hurley, her daughter Kim Maselli and fellow dance artist Lori Sorensen, California Dance Theatre was born from a shared vision: to cultivate excellence in dance while nurturing the individual. Drawing on their collective experience as professional performers and educators, the three women set out to create more than a dance school—they envisioned a second home for young dancers, a vibrant space where talent and character could flourish in equal measure.

From the beginning, California Dance Theatre (CDT) quickly gained recognition for its outstanding faculty and world-class instruction. Offering training in an impressive range of styles—from classical ballet and jazz to hip hop, tap, acro, contemporary and even aerial arts— the studio welcomes students of all ages and skill levels, from recreational beginners to aspiring professionals. Over 4 decades, CDT has served thousands of dancers, some of whom have gone on to careers in professional dance companies, Broadway, film, television and major universities.

At its core, CDT remains a family-run business, and that familial spirit runs deep. The studio’s roster of teachers includes longtime faculty members—many of whom have taught at CDT for over 20 years—as well as generations of dancers returning as instructors. It’s not uncommon to find mother-daughter pairs, siblings or even twins on staff. This intergenerational connection reinforces the deep sense of belonging that defines the studio culture.

“I love that our studio still has a feeling of family after so many years,” shares Artistic Director Kim Maselli. “Some of our teachers have been with us for decades. We all share a genuine love for dance and for the young artists we serve. It’s especially touching to see former students come back with their own children—continuing the legacy of dance through a new generation.”

A defining feature of CDT’s curriculum is its implementation of the American Ballet Theatre® National Training Curriculum, a comprehensive, six-level program designed to promote both technical excellence and dancer health. This approach ensures that students receive strong foundational training while learning to respect their bodies and develop longevity in the art form. Dancers in the upper levels have the opportunity to audition and perform with Pacific Festival Ballet (PFB), CDT’s affiliated nonprofit resident company at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center. Productions like “The Nutcracker” and “Cinderella” have become annual community traditions, giving young dancers the extraordinary chance to share the stage with international ballet stars.

While ballet is a strong foundation at CDT, the studio is equally committed to a wide variety of dance styles. From tap and lyrical to acro and musical theatre, students are encouraged to explore all avenues of movement. More than just a training ground, CDT is a performance hub, with opportunities including seasonal recitals, outreach performances and community events that help students gain confidence and stage presence while building lasting friendships.

As CDT reflects on its 40-year journey, it does so with gratitude and excitement for the future. In celebration of this milestone, the studio invites community members of all ages—from 3 to 73— to experience the joy of dance through a free trial class. Whether you’re stepping into the studio for the first time or returning after many years away, CDT welcomes you with open arms.

To learn more about classes, programs and upcoming events, visit CalDanceTheatre.com.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

1:37 am
Home • Design

State Restoration

3350 Willow Lane, Westlake Village, CA 91361
Tel: (805) 379-1276 | staterestoration.com
Showroom hours: Monday-Friday 8 am – 5 pm

CLICK HERE: Learn More About State Restoration

By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Nestled in the heart of Westlake Village just off Hampshire Road, State Restoration Inc. has been a trusted name in the community for over 25 years. What began as a dedicated restoration company has evolved into one of the area’s premier remodeling firms, bringing inspired design and meticulous craftsmanship to countless homes. Family-owned and operated by Darlene and Doug Kimbell, State Restoration is dedicated to crafting spaces that enhance daily living and endure the test of time.

Stepping into their stunning showroom unlike anything else in the region, clients discover what becomes possible when experience, passion and creativity combine. Whether you are dreaming of a refined kitchen, a serene bathroom retreat or a full home transformation, State Restoration welcomes you to call and arrange a tour to explore the remarkable materials, fixtures and finishes they offer.

Featured Project

One of the company’s recent projects, featured here, perfectly illustrates the vision and expertise that set State Restoration apart. Located in a Moorpark home built with traditional finishes common to the area, this master bathroom was ready for reinvention. The original space was dominated by white tiled countertops, orange-toned cabinetry, a framed shower and a drop-in tub clad in builder-grade 4×4 tile. While functional, these materials felt dated and required significant upkeep.

Today, the bathroom has become a sanctuary of modern elegance, designed for effortless maintenance and lasting beauty. The freestanding soaking tub immediately draws the eye, with its sculptural silhouette positioned beneath an arched window that fills the room with natural light. A sleek floor-mounted tub filler adds a sophisticated touch, blending form and function.

The adjacent walk-in shower has been transformed with frameless glass, creating a seamless flow and amplifying the sense of space. Large-format porcelain tiles with soft veining wrap the walls, delivering the luxurious look of marble without the demanding maintenance. Two built-in niches provide convenient storage for bath essentials, maintaining a clean and uncluttered feel.

The shower itself features a contemporary rain showerhead complemented by a handheld sprayer, offering a spa-like experience every day. A discreet linear drain integrates into the floor, while slip-resistant surfaces ensure safety without compromising style.

Opposite the bathing area, a spacious double vanity showcases warm natural wood cabinetry that balances the cool elegance of the tile. Generous drawers and cabinets provide ample storage, while polished hardware and smooth quartz countertops create a crisp, refined finish. A full-wall mirror visually expands the space, reflecting soft lighting and the serene palette.

Every detail of this remodel demonstrates State Restoration’s dedication to thoughtful design and flawless execution. Understated recessed lighting, high-quality fixtures and clean lines combine to create a bathroom that feels timeless yet current, an inviting space that will remain beautiful for decades to come.

© Copyright 2025 Targeted Media Partners LLC All Rights Reserved

1:37 am
Health • Wellness

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

By Tracy Marcynzsyn

Scars, whether from surgery, burns, or accidents, can affect self-image. Thanks to the services offered by industry professional Monica DiPrimeo, you don’t have to live with unsightly scars. Serving clients from Orange County to Santa Barbara, Monica specializes in diminishing the visibility of scars with various camouflaging techniques.

“I specialize in medical scar camouflage,” says Monica, who founded The Blend Beyond after 20 years of working with plastic surgeons and dermatologists. “These services deliver life-changing results and transform the way people feel about themselves,” she notes.

Here, we asked Monica to share more about her transformative services.

What techniques are used to camouflage scars?

I camouflage scars through a process called micropigmentation, which utilizes permanent makeup to match the skin tone and achieve a natural-looking result. I also use other techniques, including inkless camouflage, to treat stretch marks and scars using serum. Scalp micropigmentation involves inserting pigments into the skin to achieve a fuller hairline. Microchanneling employs an infusion of growth factors to renew, accelerate healing, and improve the skin’s texture and overall appearance.

How did you get started in this field?

I started as a technician in the operating room and have worked with plastic surgeons and dermatologists for more than two decades, so I know the options and exactly how to treat scars. Over time, the pigments and techniques have improved, and the colors are more natural. I’m glad I’m in this field, because we get great results!

How did you learn these specific techniques?

I obtained training in stretch mark removal and scar camouflage at the Twenty2 Institute. I learned microblading at Omnia Studio Academy and scalp micropigmentation at Picasso Academy. I’m board-certified, and I’m always learning, keeping up with updates and improvements in various techniques.

How long does it take to camouflage scars?

I recommend three treatments to get the best results. On average, each treatment takes 1-2 hours with 4-6 weeks between treatments. The final results may take up to 4 months.

What is the average cost of these services?

Depending on the size and specifics of the scar, most treatments start in the range of $350.

How long do the results last?

Results typically last for 3-5 years.

Are you offering any specials?

Readers can mention this article to receive 20% off their first treatment. Talk to us about how we can provide you with life-changing procedures and address your needs.

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