Laguna Niguel , CA May 2020 by City Lifestyle

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MAY 2020

Support Local & Buy Takeout THERAPY ART AND THE LANGUAGE OF COLOR

STAY AT HOME MOVIE NIGHTS FOR SEQUESTERED FAMILIES

Dear Loyal Customers and Friends, My family, headed by patriarch Tony Bagatta, has owned restaurants worldwide for years - our latest venture being The Bistro K in Laguna Niguel. As a nine year old girl, I remember riding bikes to Towne Center. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would own my own restaurant in Laguna Niguel Towne Center and that it would feel like home to so many of our customers from the last 20 years! We are all suffering through the COVID-19 crisis together. We were disheartened at first, but our customers have rallied around us with a fierce, loyal drive that has allowed us to stay open for Take Out and Delivery. This has enabled us to keep many of our cherished employees - some who have been with us since 1985 in Laguna Beach! We are humbled and amazed by your loyalty and compassion. From many Gift Cards purchased to the Take Out Orders to the regular customers who Venmo what they would have spent on their usual Friday date night - my family is indebted to your generosity! As Nicole Snow says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;a small business is an amazing way to serve and leave an impact on the world you live in.â&#x20AC;? Thank you neighbors for allowing us to change your world in our little corner of Laguna Niguel! Yours truly, Mara, Moses, Katia, Tony, Juan, Manny & Antonio The Bistro K Crew

Pick Up & No Contact Delivery Monday-Saturday 8:30am-8:30pm 30100 Town Center Drive - Suite M, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 Bistro K: 949-495-9101 | Catering & Events 949-813-1425 | gobistrok.com | #LagunaNiguelStrong

LIFESTYLE LETTER

MAY 2020 PUBLISHER

Mike Gerard | michael.gerard@lifestylepubs.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Karen Reuter

Laguna Niguel Strong I HOPE THIS ISSUE FINDS YOU, YOUR FAMILY, AND YOUR FRIENDS ALL HEALTHY AND SAFE.

AD DESIGNER

Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER

Dani Moore CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Barbara Kimler

What a roller coaster these past few weeks have been! When we originally planned our editorial calendar for the year, this month was to be our Women’s Issue. We had several great articles in the works and were making solid progress until the COVID-19 pandemic flew in from overseas. Since that first news report, our world has been turned upside down. And, as you know, here in California, we were not only one of the most affected states in the country—we were among the first to shut down. At first, like every other business person in town, I was bewildered, devastated, and scared…. “Now what?” I thought. Curling up in a ball, closing my eyes, and wishing it all away seemed to be the best course of action. But then, suddenly, it hit me... A tagline often used for Lifestyle Publications is “Inspired by Community”—and that’s so true. Laguna Niguel is an amazing place;

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

and this publication is inspired by all that it represents. If there was ever a time

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

to be a force for good, and make a positive impact on our locale, this was it.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Laguna Niguel Lifestyle offers a tremendous platform through which to share a truly

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

meaningful and uplifting message of community unity. And that’s a message we all

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

can use right about now.

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

So, with just over a week to go before our editorial deadline, we shifted gears and created this very special issue around a new theme: #LagunaNiguelStrong. #LagunaNiguelStrong is more than a hashtag. It’s a community initiative. As you’ll see in the pages of this most important issue, we are all in this together. A very special thanks to those larger businesses who stepped up to support this issue. While this has been already been one of the biggest challenges we’ve experienced as a country, we are already a better and stronger Laguna Niguel because of it.

Thank you for being you, Laguna Niguel. It is truly an honor, and a privilege, to bring you #LagunaNiguelStrong! 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Michael Gerard, Publisher

Proverbs 3:5-6 Laguna Niguel Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed

CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel

via the US Postal Service to some of the Laguna Niguel areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial

Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | May 2020

contributors. Information in Laguna Niguel Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

CrownPacific D E N T A L

A R T S

Stay Healthy Laguna Niguel! We will overcome this challenge together and become a stronger community because of it!

#LagunaNiguelStrong Personalized Cosmetic, Restorative, and Implant Dentistry Dr. Mark Montgomery, DDS 32241 Crown Valley Parkway Suite 240 Monarch Beach, CA 92629 Tel: 949.493.3333 CrownPacificDental.com

Together, are Serving Lagunawe Niguel for 35 Years at our Present Location

Graduate and Active Faculty USC School of Dentistry since 1983 President, Rotary Club of Laguna Niguel

INSIDE THE ISSUE MAY 2020

FEATURES 12 Laguna Niguel Strong Laguna Niguel Mayor, Laurie Davies, Shares Her Thoughts on the Spirit of Our Community

16 Community Outreach Local Organizations Making a Difference

24 Support Local Restaurants Restaurants are Open for Takeout

16 12

32 The Language of Color Art & Creativity for Healing Provides Therapy for Anxiety and Stress

24 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Local Limelight

Our Town

24 Locally Owned 28 Localâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice 32 Giving Back

CLARITY

Identify your ideal lifestyle goals and take inventory of your current resources.

CONFIDENCE Understand your plan and strategies to help achieve your goals.

STRUCTURE

Implement a recurring process to assess and revise your financial strategy as needed.

Some of lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s changes can be anticipated, and others can come out of nowhere. If you would like to have a plan for both, we are here to help. We help our clients to clarify their financial priorities, save and invest with confidence, and implement a structure for their entire financial lives, regardless of market and economic conditions. If you would like to have a conversation, please contact our office line or send an email to Info@avalonwealthpartners.com.

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GOOD TIMES

Ocean Ranch Winter Wonderland 2020 Snow returned to Ocean Ranch on Sunday March 1st. So, too, did a little bit of rain! But the neighbors took it in stride and all had a great afternoon full of sledding, snow play, music, and food. A special thanks to Gerard Lifestyle Real Estate and all of our magazine sponsors for coming out with booths, games, and raffle prizes. We can’t wait to get back together for events like this soon!

Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | May 2020

CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel

GOOD TIMES 1.

Extraordinary Lives Foundation Comedy Night Fundraiser Extraordinary Lives Foundation (ELF) celebrated its 2nd annual fundraiser supporting children’s mental health at the Irvine Improv. Over 300 guests raised $55K. The event was hosted by Francis Dilorinzo with headliner, Andrew Norelli. ELF CEO, Mara James, thanks sponsors Tilly’s Life Center, Reproductive Fertility Center, Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Adrienne & Rick Matros, Laguna Beach OBGYN and Each Mind Matters. ELFempowers.org

1. ELF Founder & CEO Mara James with husband Kenneth A. James, M.D. | 2. Jeanne & Gideon Bernstein | 3. Volunteers from National Charity League (NCL) Monarch Chapter | 4. Kim Gubner singing Piggie Bear’s song “You are Amazing!” | 5. Comedian Andrew Norelli | 6. Paula Vernon, Kelly Vernon, Jennifer Schamun and Terry Corwin | 7. Cori Vernon (on right), Antis Roofing & Waterproofing with guest | 8. Reproductive Fertility Center sponsor tables | 9. Sponsor Arienne Matros, with Heather & Steve Holley and Mara James

Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | May 2020

We have a shared responsibility to take action on our community’s most persistent issues

Local Schools

Scholarships

Now, together, we face a new issue and challenge... the COVID-19 Virus. Stay #LagunaNiguelStrong and remember:

Dictionaries

• Wash your hands frequently • Don’t touch your face, and • Observe responsible social distancing.

We will get through this... Together!

Arbor Day Trees

Your Rotary Club is ready and eager to serve. To learn more about Rotary, visit our website at Dental Clinic

Community

LagunaNiguelRotaryClub.org CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

Mayor Laurie Davies

Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | May 2020

LAGUNA NIGUEL STRONG LAGUNA NIGUEL’S SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY: TRULY AN INSPIRATION FOR ALL LAGUNA NIGUEL IS A CITY OF KINDNESS, COM-

were assisting them into the stores to make a stressful

PASSION,

VOLUNTEERISM.

shopping experience easier. Compassion inspired a

Evidence of this has never been more clear than it is

neighbor to donate their now-grown children’s bicycles

now, during these trying times caused by the COVID-19

to a young family trying to remain frugal in times of eco-

(Coronavirus) health crisis.

nomic uncertainty, and it encouraged a neighborhood

GENEROSITY,

AND

Having served on the Laguna Niguel City Council since

to organize a social distancing block party filled with

2012, I look back on the countless occasions that I have

music, dancing, and laughter. Generosity led a Laguna

had the opportunity to stand before our community’s

Niguel restaurant to donate food to Mission Hospital

various groups, clubs, and organizations to honor many

and City Hall workers, and local businesses to donate

incredible volunteers. On every occasion I am left in awe by

safety equipment to our brave health care workers. It

their selflessness and dedication to put “others before self.”

inspired a local dentist to donate several boxes of latex

Laguna Niguel has always been a community filled with

gloves to the Meals on Wheels volunteers. Volunteerism

residents who have given their time, selflessly, to those in

inspired residents to check on their senior neighbors

need. Despite the hardship at hand, Laguna Niguel resi-

and walk their dogs as they self-isolate. The examples of

dents continue to do so today. It is the generosity of these

#LagunaNiguelStrong are bountiful and endless.

volunteers that make Laguna Niguel one of the best places to live, work, raise a family, and visit.

With the health crisis we are dealing with today, I have come to the realization that like many cities, this is one

In times or hardship communities are often presented

of the very few citywide crises that we have endured

with two options – selfishness or selflessness. Knowing

together as a community. This is not the new normal, but

the type of people that make up this community, I knew

yet an outlier in the esteemed history of this City. Times

that we would choose selflessness. During this health

like these, and the actions that we take, will undoubtedly

crisis, I and many others in our community, have wit-

have a lasting impact on this community’s path forward.

nessed incredible displays of kindness and selflessness

#LagunaNiguelStrong is not simply a proverbial saying,

by residents. It has truly been overwhelming. I would

but rather, exemplifies the generous actions taken by our

like to highlight some of these uplifting acts of gener-

community’s residents time and time again when the going

osity, kindness and compassion that are taking place

gets tough. Words cannot express the pride that I have

right here in our community over the last few weeks.

for this City and our residents. If we continue displaying

Kindness inspired many residents to share essential

kindness, compassionate behavior, and generous actions,

goods with their neighbors as grocery stores rushed in

we will get through this difficult time together, as one – as

preparation for the need for residents to stay at home.

Laguna Niguel. Through the good times and the uncertain

It led to grocery stores opening early for our senior res-

times there is no doubt that Laguna Niguel is and will

idents and in some instances residents of younger age

always be the best place to call home.

ARTICLE MAYOR LAURIE DAVIES PHOTOGRAPHY CITY OF LAGUNA NIGUEL CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel

STAY STRONG LAGUNA NIGUEL! We will get through this together! Follow Us on Instagram and Facebook for Virtual Workouts!

#LAGUNANIGUELSTRONG 30100 Town Center Dr Suite S | Laguna Niguel (next to Ballpark Pizza) | 949-297-6911 | 9Round.com

CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel

OUR TOWN

COMMUNITY

LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Outreach

Mara James

Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | May 2020

IN DIFFICULT TIMES LIKE THESE, PEOPLE TEND TO BE MORE AWARE OF CHALLENGES THAT OTHERS ARE FACING—AND, AS A RESULT, THEY BECOME KINDER CITIZENS. This is the American spirit. Neighbors are coming together for the common good. Not physically, of course, in this time of social distancing, but spiritually. Often, we think of community as merely a collection of people based on their physical location. But the dictionary clarifies it as a group of people with common interest living together within a larger society. As we witness this broader sense of community, and we see more kindness and charity in our daily lives, we gain a deeper appreciation for those individuals and groups who are truly making a difference on a larger scale. Here are a few great local organizations serving our community’s collective good in this difficult time.

EXTRAORDINARY LIVES FOUNDATION + WHAT IT IS: Serving Children’s Mental Health and Wellness + WHO IT’S GOOD FOR: Families with children experiencing mental health challenges + WHERE IT IS: Laguna Niguel and Mission Viejo Mara James founded Extraordinary Lives Foundation (ELF) in 2015. The organization promotes children’s mental health and

FAITH EPISCOPAL CHURCH: HANDS OF GRACE

wellness while supporting families with awareness events, edu-

+ WHAT IT IS: Community Dinner for those in need

cation and resources.

+ WHO IT’S GOOD FOR: Homeless and those in need

Mara and her family (three children and husband Kenneth)

+ WHERE IT IS: Laguna Niguel

relocated from New York to Laguna Niguel in 2007. With degrees in Psychology and Economics from the University of Rochester,

Faith Episcopal Church has been serving the Laguna

Mara initially helped establish her husband’s OBGYN practice

Niguel for 30 years and founded the community dinner,

and recently shifted her focus to running the foundation fulltime.

Hands of Grace, in 2017. The interfaith program provides

As May is Mental Health Awareness Month, this is the ideal

a home-cooked meal for local homeless and at-risk every

time to focus on removing the stigma associated with mental health challenges. Mara encourages families to reach out for help before their emotions spiral out of control. In 2018, Mara wrote the children’s book “The Power of Piggie Bear,” to help children identify and manage their emotions in

Wednesday evening at the church on El Lazo. The dinners are supported by Mission Lutheran Church, Laguna Niguel Presbyterian, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, St. George’s Episcopal Church, Baha’i Faith, and Starbucks Coffee.

a fun and mindful way. Piggie Bear teaches children to love

In addition to dinner, guests can access shower vouch-

themselves and know they are truly amazing - just the way they

ers (through the Laguna Niguel YMCA), toiletries, clothing,

are! The book highlights three important tools that anyone can

breakfast bags and other food items.

use during times of stress and anxiety:

+ Piggie Bear’s deep belly breathing + Piggie Bear’s self-hug + Piggie Bear’s empowering words “I am amazing!”

When COVID-19 hit in early March, Faith Episcopal had to close its doors, but that didn’t stop Hands of Grace. Volunteers stepped up, serving to-go meals outside of the church along with toiletry kits and meal vouchers to local restaurants.

Manufactured by Build-a-Bear, the adorable Piggie Bear plush

Faith Episcopal Vicar Dawn Vukich said, “While we

is available online along with “The Power of Piggie Bear” book.

couldn’t enjoy the typical family-style meal inside, we

Proceeds fund the donation of Piggie Bear products to at-risk children

wanted to show this most vulnerable community that we

in hospitals, shelters, foster and military families. ELFempowers.org

still care.” faithepiscopal.org

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CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel

OUR TOWN (CONTINUED)

Sea Country Home Delivered Meals Manager, Kathy Cooper and Robin Trexler Nutrition Site Manager, Laguna Niguel at Age Well Prepare to Deliver Meals

AGE WELL SENIOR SERVICES + WHAT IT IS: Orange County’s largest Senior Services organiaztion + WHO IT’S GOOD FOR: Laguna Niguel Seniors + WHERE IT IS: Sea Country Senior and Community Center Age Well Senior Services is the sole provider of Meals on Wheels “pretty amazing.” He said, “Their well-coordinated efforts throughout Southern Orange County with operations in nine sites were nothing short of heroic as they work on the front lines including Sea Country Senior and Community Center.

delivering meals while providing a sense of normalcy in our

When the COVID-19 crisis hit, it was more critical than ever seniors’ lives.” to provide meals for seniors. With an increased demand, and

Normally bustling with activity, this site closed temporally

senior center closures, seniors were at risk of losing a critical due to the pandemic. Age Well’s Congregate Meal Program lifeline to human contact and proper nutrition.

was converted to a frozen meal pick-up program three days

Age Well CEO Steve Moyer sites teams of Age Well a week. Age Well is here to support the community during the employees and local volunteers serving seniors in need as good times and times of challenges. myagewell.org

Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | May 2020

This working from home, zoom chat, jammies all day thing is probably new for you. Don’t worry, you’ll get used to it. This is what we do all the time! Here are a few things that will help: Find a new normal Enjoy the family time Pray daily and trust God Oh, and always have your contracts reviewed by a professional! Call us if you need help with any of the above. We’re experts!

#LAGUNANIGUELSTRONG

CHICAGO •

IRVINE •

NEW YORK

300 Spectrum Center Dr. Ste 400 Irvine, CA 92618 | info@quadrantlaw.com | (949) 396-0452 | www.quadrantlaw.com CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel

LO C

A L

A FEW OF OUR HOMETOWN LEADERS SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS AND OPTIMISM

JIM MCGINLE Y ROTARY CLUB OF LAGUNA NIGUEL, PAST PRESIDENT 2018-2019, KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COUNCIL 12834, PAST GRAND KNIGHT, CHAIRMAN, LAGUNA NIGUEL PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION, LAGUNA NIGUEL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

These are no doubt trying times for people in our world, our country, and our city. We find ourselves in a situation that we have never been in before. Times filled with uncertainty and anxiety. It is in times like these that we have an opportunity to stop, reflect and evaluate what is really of most importance in our lives. Faith, friends, family, health and community…these are the things of real value! So as a community, I want to encourage all of us to look for opportunities to help our neighbors. Perhaps it’s the elderly couple down the street that may need someone to pick up groceries or the single mom that has school aged children at home and could use a helping hand. Laguna Niguel is more than just a great city. It is a community of extraordinary hardworking and caring people. To quote the psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, Viktor Frankl, “forces beyond your control can take away everything you possess except one thing, your freedom to choose how you will respond to the situation.” Let us take this opportunity to come together and build each other up! After all, we are #LagunaNiguelStrong. God bless us!

G N I SI 20

Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | May 2020

T H

PHOTOGRAPHY KAREN REUTER

STEPHANIE D. WINSTE AD, ESQ. WINSTEAD LAW GROUP, APC, 2019 CHAIR OF THE BOARD, LAGUNA NIGUEL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

United We Stand. Laguna Niguel is a remarkable city. Not only because of its natural beauty, the weather, or its proximity to the ocean, mountains, or the city nightlife of Los Angeles and San Diego. Laguna Niguel is remarkable because of the people who live here. We’re a community that pulls together to lift each other up during this trying time. This has been increasingly evident over the past month as I’ve witnessed people generously sharing their time, skill, means, and resources. We have had to rethink our priorities and change our roles and behaviors for the greater good, because staying healthy is a team effort. If you find yourself feeling down, try to look for the silver lining. Relax, take a deep breath, and focus on what you can control. You are strong and you are not alone. But together, we are #LagunaNiguelStrong!

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LOCAL INSIGHTS (CONTINUED)

M A R K M O N T G O M E R Y, D D S PRESIDENT, LAGUNA NIGUEL ROTARY CLUB As a community and a country, we must pause during this national crisis and take stock of the personal sacrifices being made on so many levels. Our gratitude goes out for the heroic efforts of our government, police, first responders, and medical personnel. There are other unsung heroes as well. Our not-forprofit community organizations contribute greatly to the fabric of our collective safety net. Laguna Niguel Rotary is just such an organization of men and women striving for the high calling of selfless service to others. Our motto is “Service Above Self.” And, what we give of ourselves in time, treasure, and talent comes back many times over to enrich our lives. That’s the spirit we all must carry now. Small businesses need our help. As a community, we will overcome this enemy together; and we will have great reason to be proud! We will emerge #LagunaNiguelStrong.

SCOTT ALEV Y PRESIDENT/CEO, LAGUNA NIGUEL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak, your Chamber of Commerce has been focused on the safety of our members and staff while delivering swift and accurate communications to our community. Using social media and direct email, we continue to share critical information as we receive it. All meetings and events have been either cancelled or postponed. And, although operating remotely, we continue to be a responsive community resource. The Laguna Niguel Chamber of Commerce is here for you and we won’t let you down. Every business and family in our community has been impacted. We are all in this together. Stay informed and respond to credible information, rather than reacting to rumors. On social media, and in emails, we are providing links to accurate information as it comes in. The Chamber is leading by example—and our community will come back stronger than ever! #LagunaNiguelStrong

Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | May 2020

CHARLES PABST

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L AG U N A B E AC H - S COT TS DA L E - S A N TA F E CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel

LOCALLY OWNED

support local ARTICLE MIKE GERARD

MANY RESTAURANTS ARE OFFERING TAKEOUT OR SELLING GIFT CARDS - THEY NEED OUR SUPPORT! AS YOU KNOW, COVID-19 HAD CAUSED BUSINESS TO COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN FOR MANY OF US. We cannot even enjoy a nice dinner out with our family and friends. This is why the word community was created. Together, we will get through this. The restaurant business has been crushed. And our community restaurants are the lifeblood of our lifestyle! With no one coming in for dinner, many have been struggling; and the only thing they have to work with is gift cards, takeout and delivery. In this issue, we wanted to shine a light on a few of our favorite spots to eat. Please order a meal for takeout and support them in this time of need! #LagunaNiguelStrong

THE HARBOR GRILL 34499 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point, CA 92629 (949) 240-1416 harborgrill.com For long time locals, who are lovers of great seafood, The Harbor Grill is a hands down favorite! Since 1984, The Harbor Grill has been specializing in fresh, regional seafood cuisine, fine steaks and fresh oysters, The Harbor Grill is a must experience. And, while at the time of this writing, dining room seating has been temporarily shut down, Keegan Hicks and executive chef, Angel Fabian, are still offering Gift Cards. There are certainly not many gifts better than a Harbor Grill Dinner; and you can count on the fact that the Harbor Grill Gift Card you give will not be re-gifted! Also, since we cannot enjoy the Harbor Grill experience right now, let’s start planning ahead for dinner parties now so we can hit Keegan with a tidal wave of support when his doors open back up again!

Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | May 2020

HANDEL’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM & YOGURT

GOOD CHOICE SUSHI 30251 Golden Lantern F, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 (949) 363-8840

28121 Crown Valley Pkwy, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

goodchoicesushi.com

(949) 215-1350

Good Choice Sushi had been part of our Laguna Niguel

handelsicecream.com

community since 1996. Family owned and operated, Good

We’ve been all cooped up with our kids lately and sometimes

Choice Sushi provides an amazing assortment of menu

it’s tough to keep them happy. That said, it sure is great to know

items from great starters to generous lunch and dinner

that Handel’s Ice Cream is still delivering the goods through this

combination plates. The sushi is always fresh and their

challenging time! What better way to bring cheer to a child’s life

world-famous POKE is to die for. If you like to explore chef’s

than the great taste of quality ice cream. Since 1945, Handel’s

specials or exotic rolls, the talented sushi chefs are certain

Homemade Ice Cream is made fresh daily on-site using products,

to delight your taste buds. Order online for easy pick up.

equipment, methods and recipes exclusively their own. Fistfuls of

You will not be disappointed!

nuts, creamy caramel, deep dark chocolate, fresh fruits, and fluffy marshmallows are blended into each batch drawn from specially designed machines. It is this attention to detail that has helped Handel’s continue a long tradition of excellence. Recognized as the #1 ice cream in the world, Handel’s only uses the best ingredients available. Available for pickup. handelsicecream.com

AMBERS CANTINA

Good Choice Sushi

31341 Niguel Road, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream & Yogurt

(949) 488-2858 amberscantina.com If you have not been to Amber’s Cantina yet, you must have not lived in Laguna Niguel for long. Located in the Club House Plaza on Niguel Road, and a very popular spot with the locals, this small, friendly establishment has been serving up authentic Mexican recipes since 1988. Family owned and operated, all entrees at Amber’s Cantina are prepared from wholesome fresh ingredients by chef Fernando. Prices are great and the service is warm and welcoming. From their homemade chips and salsa, to the best margaritas in town, you can taste this is the real deal. Healthy options include grilled jumbo shrimp or citrus marinated chicken salad. Amber’s Cantina is offering curbside pickup. You can see their full recipe online.

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LOCALLY OWNED (CONTINUED)

FRATELLO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 31371 Niguel Road, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 (949) 661-1250 fratellos.com Fratello’s has two locations—Laguna Niguel and San Clemente. Established in 1996 by Bobby and Joey

how can you help our local businesses?

Plaza on Niguel Road, this family-friendly restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for its guests. This is another favorite restaurant for Laguna Niguel residents. With a strong local following of regular cus-

support your favorite business or restaurant. Gift cards are something you can always use in the future. And our favorite businesses really need the cashflow right now.

Madison, Fratello’s offers a complete menu of authentic classic Italian dishes. Centrally located in the Club House

BUY GIFT CARDS. What a great way to

ORDER TAKEOUT OR DELIVERY. This is a great time to save money and cook meals at home. But, don’t forget about your favorite restaurants. They are run by people just like us, with families too. We love the dining expe-

tomers, Fratello’s is currently offering pickup and you can

rience they provide. Let’s show a little love

purchase gift cards online.

back and order a meal to go.

RESCHEDULE, DON’T CANCEL. Let your favorite business know you’re not going anywhere. If you have a party or special event planned, don’t cancel it outright. Rescheduling will give the business some reassurance that there is light at the end of the tunnel. They will ramp up again and you’ll be there when they do.

SUPPORT THEM ON SOCIAL MEDIA. Have you been on Instagram lately so see what’s going on? It seems everyone is eager to share good will. You notice a lot of restaurants

ASIAN KITCHEN

trying to get the word out that they are offering

30271 Golden Lantern Suite D, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

They really appreciate it.

takeout, gift cards, and delivery. Connect with them, share their news, and support them.

(949) 441-7138 asian-kitchens.com Asian Kitchen is a Chinese & Vegetarian Restaurant located in the Laguna Heights Marketplace in Laguna Niguel. Established in 2019, this wonderful establishment is operated by a family who are longtime residents of Laguna Niguel. Serving fresh, authentic cuisine, Asian Kitchen’s menu draws from a wide variety of Asian cultures including

THINK TWICE BEFORE ORDERING THROUGH AMAZON PRIME. Sure, it’s convenient and delivery is free. But is there a store in Laguna Niguel that is open to sell the same thing? Or, if you really don’t want to go out, and you must buy online, local merchants have websites too. Check them out.

Chinese, Vietnamese, Thai, Korean, Malaysian, Singaporean,

UPPORT LOCA S S LS

ES IN 26

Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | May 2020

LOCAL B US

is offering pick up and delivery. You can order online.

SUPPORT LOCAL! ORT

a fan of Asian food, this is a spot you must try. Asian Kitchen

T LOCAL BU S

UPPORT LOCA S S L

gluten-Free, vegetarian, and vegan options as well. If you are

POR

Pickled Daikon Carrot Medley. Asian Kitchen offers plenty of

Dumplings and Orange Chicken to unique entrees like

and others. Selections range from popular dishes like Soup

Wishing you and your families the very best in health and safety! EVERYTHING WILL BE OK. GOOD NEWS IS COMING.

Together, we are

#LagunaNiguelStrong!

CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel

LOCAL’S CHOICE

ARTICLE KATHY CASDORPH

LAGUNA NIGUEL RESIDENT AND MOM, KATHY CASDORPH, SHARES HER FAMILY FAVORITES TO WATCH WITH THE KIDS

M O M ’S M O V I E NIGHT IN FINDING SOME LIGHT IN TODAY’S STRESSFUL BOMBARDMENT OF NEGATIVE NEWS, OUR FAMILY IS TRULY ENJOYING TIME TOGETHER SEQUESTERED AT HOME BY FINDING QUALITY AT-HOME ACTIVITIES. It’s an adjustment for certain, but family movie nights are helping bond us even more. My husband, Brad and I are both children of the 80’s and sharing our experiences with our children tends to be nightly dinner conversations, as they head into their teens. Our first choice of family movie night is Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986). PG-13. This movie captures a carefree time, allowing us to make fun of ourselves with humor. Our second choice is none other than 1985’s The Breakfast Club. Though rated R, the nuances of the teen experiences are very real and subjects that can help your teenagers deal with current issues. Our final choice is 1984’s Sixteen Candles, which addresses so many situations for teens that seem even current for today with humor. As parents we can’t shelter our kids from today’s realities, but these films give a fun platform to discuss and share your thoughts through your parenting journey.

Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | May 2020

ARTICLE PETER SZYMAN

LAGUNA NIGUEL DAD, PETER SZYMAN, SHARES HIS FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT PICKS FROM A DAD’S POINT OF VIEW

D A D ’S M O V I E NIGHT OUR FAMILY LOVES TO TRAVEL. New Year’s Day 2019 found us at Machu Picchu in Peru. New Year’s 2020, it was hiking in New Zealand including visits to the sets of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. What movies would a quarantined family that has wanderlust watch? We’d be off to Salzburg, Austria to join the von Trapp Family in The Sound of Music (1965). We’d be delighted by the voice of Julia Andrews among the Austrian Alps. From there we’d travel to Morocco and indulge in Casablanca (1942) to enjoy the sights and sounds of Rick’s Cafe. We’d listen to Sam play As Time Goes By. Before heading out, we would witness Rick and Ilsa selflessly put the future of the world above their love. At this point, lonely for home, we’d head back to the USA. Having missed March Madness, we’d get our basketball fix by watching Hoosiers (1986). We’d watch Jimmy Chitwood, led by coach Norman Dale (Gene Hackman) take diminutive Hickory HS to the Indiana State Basketball Championship game against a Goliath from Indianapolis. Then we’d all close our eyes, click the heels of our Ruby slippers and say over and over, “There’s no place like home.”

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Kenneth A. James, M.D. 26800 Crown Valley Pkwy Suite 460, Mission Viejo (949) 829-5500 | www.ocwmg.com Dr. James is a Laguna Niguel Resident and an Obstetrician-Gynecologist in Mission Viejo, California. He is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including Mission Hospital and Saddleback Medical Center. 30

Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | May 2020

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GIVING BACK

The Language of Color ART & CREATIVITY FOR HEALING PROVIDES THERAPY FOR ANXIETY AND STRESS ARTICLE BARBARA KIMLER

Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | May 2020

AT ITS VERY ESSENCE, COLOR IS THE

energetic nature affects emotions and can

RE-TRANSMISSION OF VISIBLE ENERGY

heal and give pain a voice.

THAT IS NOT ABSORBED BY AN OBJECT.

The idea for Art & Creativity for Healing

Language and culture vary around the world,

was conceived when New York artist and

but color’s energetic nature is universal.

City University professor Laurie Zagon

Art & Creativity for Healing participants use

facilitated a workshop for stressed and

their own creative energy to transfer colors to

overworked Wall Street executives. While

canvas. When they observe and contemplate

the Armani-clad men weren’t initially enthu-

the results, energy from the colors reveals

siastic, they were soon lost in their painting

their emotions and this energy feedback loop

exercises which ultimately lowered their

often promotes a sense of well-being. Color’s

anxiety and stress.

In that moment, Zagon knew she was on to something. She formed Art & Creativity for Healing upon relocating to Southern California several years later. Now in its 20th year, the nonprofit is focused on helping children and adults process illness, grief or stress. Her own words best describe this innovative philosophy; “Art has a powerful way of healing. People can say things with colors that they often have no words for. The power of our program is in the unique way people tell their story with paint on canvas.” Laurie Zagon, Founder

Art & Creativity for Healing operated in Laurie’s Cabot Road studio for its first fifteen years. When a major development forced a move, the organization relocated to Laguna Hills where its programs continue today. Since its inception, more than 80,000 individuals, served by over 40 nonprofit partner agencies, have participated in exercises designed to encourage emotional responses leaving participants with enhanced clarity and insight. Art4Healing® workshops allow individuals to get in touch with feelings that words cannot often express. Led through a series of prompts, participants respond by painting abstractly with acrylic colors on canvas. Facilitators include counselors, teachers, therapists, medical professionals, artists and others who want to help those suffering from abuse, illness, grief or stress. Art & Creativity for Healing offers two facilitator training programs in the Art4Healing® method. In partnership with Brandman University, their Art4Healing® Certification - the only method Completion Program in the country - is available in-studio. International certification, also the only one of its kind, is offered online. COMMUNITY IN CRISIS The COVID-19 crisis hit the nonprofit community hard. Art & Creativity has done all it can to keep their programs running to serve a community under fear, stress and isolation. In conjunction with the City of Stanton, they provided programs for seniors, the most vulnerable in the health pandemic. Online classes were offered free to children, teens and seniors and art supply kits were made available at several remote locations. Art & Creativity for Healing also created an art project “Postcards from the Heart” to help partner non-profit agencies stay creative during the stay-athome restrictions. Individuals received art materials and were encouraged to create a series of postcards to be mailed to people affected by the crisis. Art & Creativity for Healing is proudly celebrating its 20th year of service this year and future goals include expanding core programs to reach even more participants. The popular Palette of Colors fundraiser - held for each of the past 20 years - is their sole annual fundraising event with event proceeds providing 25% of their annual budget. Planning is well underway for the Platinum 20 Year Anniversary Gala on Saturday, October 17 at the Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel. To learn more, visit art4healing.org or call 949.367.1902 CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel 33

United We Stand! Stay Healthy, Positive & Strong. We will come back better than ever! Honesty | Integrity | Community Community is not just about the people we live with or around; it’s about the values and common interests we all share. Now is our time to stand united as one community, Laguna Niguel! By taking care of ourselves, we are protecting each other. United We Stand!

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Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | May 2020

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Mike Gerard, Broker Associate Mike Gerard, Broker Associate

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Monarch Beach Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, Monarch Beach (714) 883-2943 | mgerard@gerardteam.com | gerardteam.com | DRE# 01034441 (714) 883-2943 | mgerard@gerardteam.com | gerardteam.com | DRE# 01034441 If your property is currently listed with a Broker, this is not intended as a solicitation. If your property is currently listed with a Broker, this is not intended as a solicitation.