Newport Beach Lifestyle January 2015

Newport Beach JANUARY 2015

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Doggone Tips for traveling with your pooch Great Purge 2015 Create space and start fresh Fight Heart Disease The many benefits of salmon

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Pulisher's Letter

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he holiday season is coming to a close, and 2014 has now come and gone. Looking back on the year helps me to realize just how quickly life goes by. It seems as if I was just beginning to contemplate 2014, and the things it would have in store for me. I had so many questions about the upcoming year.

What would be the successes and failures that I would encounter, and what challenges would I face? What new business and personal relationships would I develop? What new places would I visit, and with whom? Would there be any major worldwide events that might threaten the well-being of my family and friends? We have encountered many such events that were forecasting worldwide doomsday-like outcomes, and could adversely affect all of us.

How to overcome fear is one of the greatest challenges of humanity. Fear presents itself in many surprising forms. Challenges can be political, economic, scientific, religious or philosophical. Earth passed through the tail of Halley’s Comet in 1910, and the front page of the New York Times fueled widespread panic about the end of the world. In the same way, Nostradamus predicted the world’s ending in 1999. Furthermore, the Y2K threat was supposedly going to be a worldwide computer and technology collapse. That was 15 years ago, and January 1, 2000, occurred without incident.

Life continued peacefully, and I have since happily celebrated many New Year’s Eves with my family and friends. The strength of my relationships overcame the fear imposed by these apocalyptic predictions and technology threats.

My realization over the years is that we have a deeply embedded care and concern for our families and friends. We are obviously made to be in relationships. Life is so much more fulfilling when we can share our successes with the ones we love. It is also much easier to face the trials we encounter when we have a shoulder to cry on, or someone to talk to. Relationships make us stronger, and help us to succeed within our families, communities, businesses and organizations. Love and hope are key ingredients in any positive relationship, and help us overcome adversity. At the same time, they aid us in achieving our goals to finally celebrate our victories.

Let’s keep that in mind as we move into 2015. Remove the fear and negativity in our lives. Let’s celebrate the people around us. Communicate often and effectively to the people in your life. Let them know how much they mean to you. Love them, hug and kiss them every day. Encourage them, and inspire them with your appreciation.

In 2015, let the hope and love within us transcend fear and negativity. Let them be the cornerstone of our actions that inspire the community. “No matter how dark the moment, love and hope are always possible.” –George Chakiris

JANUARY 2015 publisher

Randy Harding | RHarding@LifestylePubs.com 714.600.4759

editor

Lysa Christopher | LChristopher@LifestylePubs.com

contributing writers Lysa Christopher, Lisa Cooke Harrison, Rich Manning, Myquillyn Smith, Tom Strongman

contributing photographers Lysa Christopher, Lisa Cooke Harrison, Myquillin Smith, Tom Stongman

account managers Roger Bloom, Ken Finocchio

copy editor Mary Nesfield

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P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Newport Beach Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Kingdom Holdings LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Newport Beach’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Kingdom Holdings’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Kingdom Holdings does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

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January 2015

Departments 8

Around Town

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Home Matters

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Hot Spot

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Animal Tracks

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What's Cooking?

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Driver's Notebook

30 Lifestyle Calendar 34

Parting Thoughts

12 A Sweet Spot

Lemonade Turns the Cafeteria Concept on its Ear

16 Catalina Island

Like Nowhere Else on Earth

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Around Town The third of six high-profile locations opening across the country, Inspirato’s new experience center in Fashion Island showcases the club’s growing portfolio of vacation residences and personalized service in a completely unique environment.

Unlike traditional retail stores, the Inspirato experience center focuses on educating consumers about what it means to be an Inspirato member, and inspiring them to embrace vacations as a vital aspect of a life well lived.

The Fashion Island experience center will also serve as a clubhouse of sorts for the approximately 200 Orange County-based Inspirato members, where they can meet face-to-face with their own personal vacation advisers, explore destinations for their next Inspirato vacation and attend special members-only events.

NOW HIRING Do you know a teen looking for their first job? Do you want a part-time job? Ralphs Grocery Company recently announced it is adding an estimated 1,200 permanent jobs at its Southern California stores. Ralphs -- a subsidiary of Cincinnati-based Kroger’s -currently employs more than 19,000 people in Southern California.

Ralphs is hiring for a variety of positions including front end, deli, bakery and store clerks. Ralphs is also looking to fill cake decorator positions and openings in its Murray’s Cheese and Starbucks shops that are located in many of its supermarkets. Ralphs.com/careers

SMILE, YOU’RE ON CANDID CAMERA The chief of campus safety at Orange Coast College has been quick to utilize the latest technology to protect students and his officers.

Now he’s taking things a step further with the purchase of about 20 pen cameras, inconspicuous devices that can record interactions between officers and the public.

Like the tape recorders, the pen cameras must be activated by security personnel. Farmer said his staff began using the pens this month and estimates the devices can record about two hours of video.

OCC spokesman Doug Bennett said he considers the change another step toward greater safety and resolution of disputes.

Farmer’s decision comes at a time when incidents like the shooting death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo., by a police officer have law enforcement institutions across the nation reconsidering how they approach subjects who might have broken the law.

SELLING THE DREAM Denver-based luxury destination club Inspirato is now open in Fashion Island.

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Newport Beach Lifestyle | January 2015

FROZEN IN LINE Disneyland is now implementing a reservation system to meet Anna and Elsa, the newest princesses in the Disney stable who have generated two-hour waits in line.

Patrons can now pick up a “virtual queue” ticket at no cost to meet the heroines from the smash movie “Frozen.” The queue ticket is similar to the Fastpass issued for popular rides.

Since the “Frozen Room” opened last winter, it has become one of the most-popular attractions in the theme park’s history.

The tickets are handed out to people presenting their admission tickets or annual passes at a spot outside the room, starting when the park opens and ending when all of them have been handed out.

But seemingly like all things at Disneyland, there’s still a line to get the “virtual queue” tickets. Patrons may still wait up to 45 minutes to pick up the pass, and when they return at the appointed time, they must then wait up to 20 minutes to have an audience with the princesses.

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Home Matters

You’re Invited to Join the Great Purge & Clean of 2015 Article Lisa Cooke Harrison

H

appy New Year! Now that you’ve got your fitness and wellness goals firmly in place, it’s time to look closely at the space around you and ask yourself, “Are things looking a little cluttered?” or “Are my closets bursting at the seams?”

Why not set a goal to de-clutter and, more importantly, simplify this year?

Several years ago, I was inspired by a book called Simple Abundance to set a goal to clean, sort and rid my home of much of the stuff that was being stored but rarely used in spare drawers, closets, cabinets and bookshelves around my home. Finding truth in the idea that ‘we fill the space we have’ meant that my homesweet-home was filled to the brim. Like many of you, I’m blessed to live in a house with extra closets, an extra bedroom and lots of built-in cabinets and book shelves. I realized in the 12 years we’d lived in our home, we’d filled all of these spaces. It was time to attack them and I needed a plan.

My goal? To get rid of something nearly every day.

As I sit and watch television in the evenings, I try to use that time to clean out a drawer or two or a shelf in one of the nearby closets. (Commercials are the perfect time to put things back.)

One night I carried all of the plastic shoe boxes that make up our first aid and medicine closet supplies. It’s amazing how many nearly empty bottles of cough syrup and Tums we’d accumulated.

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Newport Beach Lifestyle | January 2015

An hour later my waste basket was full and I’d easily pitched more than a dozen items and so my goal for that week was met.

Once upon a time I thought every bookshelf should be lined with books and so I collected and I kept every book I finished. Now I take pride in half empty bookshelves that provide me with space to show off pretty collectibles and a few framed family photos.

My beloved got involved at a different level. He started selling things on Craig’s List and eBay. Suddenly the wood chipper and junior golf clubs in the garage had each brought in fifty dollars. That alone was motivation for him to keep posting. We agreed this method was significantly easier than a garage sale since we both work full-time.

Twice a year I go through my son’s closets and dressers. It doesn’t take more than 20 minutes of playing “Keep or toss?” with my growing teens to whittle down their t-shirt collection and get rid of the clothes that no longer fit. Since they seem to come home with a t-shirt a week from one activity or another, it’s easy for them to have 10 favorites and ignore the rest.

Do you ever find yourself watching an episode of something on your computer? Use that time to organize and purge from your desk, home office space or kitchen, depending on where your computer lives.

The organizational experts all seem to agree—if it isn’t useful, sentimental or beautiful, it might be time to let it go.

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Hot Spot

A Sweet Spot Lemonade Turns the Cafeteria Concept on its Ear Article Rich Manning

C

afeteria is a scary word. While its mention may evoke thoughts of the awesome faux-exotic kitsch that is Clifton’s Cafeteria in downtown Los Angeles for some folks, its utterance likely conjures up images of elementary-school lunches, where kids were expected to re-fuel on gritty mashed potatoes, hockey-puck hamburgers and veggies whose texture suggested they came from a Fisher-Price play set. These foods were edible trauma.

The word was why I approached Lemonade, the Fashion Island cafeteria, with a bit of trepidation. Even after trusted colleagues told me how good the L.A. location was, and even after I saw the colorful mélange of freshly made food on its website, my childhood experiences in dealing with whatever alien slop was being dished out by the L.A. Unified School District interfered with my motivation to check things out.

I have since gone on to discover that popping over to Lemonade for a quick, casual meal is therapeutic. All barely edible tragedies associated with cafeteria cuisine of yore are summarily trounced here, buried under an avalanche of vibrant seasonal veggies and tender braises. Although the restaurant’s website is somewhat coy with the use of the word, it is a cafeteria, complete with workers scooping out servings of food from long, narrow containers as you shift past them. And there’s nothing overtly fancy happening on the menu; what they essentially have is a selection of dishes

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and sides featuring fresh ingredients that work very well together when properly arranged. But this simple formula is what makes it so much fun to come here, grab a tray and watch as your plate piles up with delight as you shimmy through the line.

It’s also a lot of fun to think about how far removed this sumptuous food is from what passed for cafeteria food of our youth.

Yesterday’s vegetables of questionable origin are replaced by items like persimmon arugula with blue cheese or Israeli couscous mixed with wild mushroom, Parmesan cheese and lemon truffle.

Mystery meat gives way to juicy buttermilk chicken breast. The burger that was better suited to be slapped by Paul Kariya’s stick back in the day has been jettisoned in favor of a piping hot shortrib sandwich oozing into a sourdough roll.

As the name of the place suggests, Lemonade is kind of a big deal here, and it too pushes past the boundaries of the tart beverage of your youth. Sure, you can get the basic stuff for a pinch of the ol’ childhood innocence. But they also have versions of the drink featuring blood orange, watermelon rosemary and cucumber mint. If I may, I’d suggest that you live a little.

I’d also suggest that you don’t let Lemonade technically being a cafeteria scare you off from burrowing into Fashion Island and grabbing a quick lunch or casual dinner. The 8-year-old inside you that had to deal with the horrors of your school lunch program will thank you.

Animal Tracks

Tips for Traveling With Your Dog H

eather Loenser, DVM, knows first-hand the joys and challenges of traveling with her dog. She and her family recently adopted a year-old Border collie named Calvin.

“As a new dog in our house, Calvin is experiencing some separation anxiety, so we don’t want to board him or leave him with a pet sitter,” Dr. Loenser explains. “Even though he suffers from car sickness, when the family goes on vacation, Calvin comes with us.”

Dr. Loenser is often called upon to help her clients prepare for vacations with their dogs. Her top five travel tips are: 1. Consider Car Safety When it comes to car trips, practice safety first. In some states, it is illegal for dogs to ride unrestrained in a vehicle. The Center for Pet Safety tests vehicle restraints for dogs; their recommendations can be found at CenterForPetSafety.org.

2. Be a Considerate Guest Whether at a pet-friendly hotel or at the inlaws’ house, not everyone will love your dog as much as you do. Make sure your dog is wellgroomed and don’t forget canine etiquette. A quick refresher course in the basics commands: sit, down, stay, quiet and come will help make your dog welcome wherever you go.

3. Take First Aid on the Road Accidents happen; be prepared with a mobile app offered by the American Red Cross. It contains veterinary advice for everyday emergencies, interactive features and a locator for American Animal Hospital Association-accredited hospitals across the nation. Download the app at RedCross.org.

4. Avoid Dietary Changes Stay as close to your dog’s regular feeding schedule as possible and avoid giving extra treats or different types of foods that may upset their stomach. Dr. Loenser suggests giving regular meals in a food dispensing toy, which will also help use up some stored energy from the trip.

“I prescribe an FDA approved medication for dogs called CERENIA® (maropitant citrate) to prevent vomiting due to motion sickness in my canine clients 16 weeks and older – and Calvin.” Dr. Loenser knows it is safe and effective because it’s the medicine she uses every day to prevent and treat other causes of vomiting in her patients. She advises dog owners to talk to their veterinarians who can help find a solution for their dogs’ car sickness.

“When you think about it, taking your dog along on vacation can be less expensive than paying for a kennel or dog sitter. That leaves more to spend on fun activities to enjoy with your dog.”

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: Use CERENIA Tablets for acute vomiting in dogs 8 weeks and older, and for prevention of vomiting due to motion sickness in dogs 16 weeks and older.

Safe use has not been evaluated in cats and dogs with gastrointestinal obstruction, or those that have ingested toxins. Use with caution in dogs with

5. Consult Your Veterinarian One of the main reasons dogs get left behind is, like Calvin, they suffer from motion sickness. “My clients often try over-the-counter remedies first,” Dr. Loenser says. “However, OTC products are not very effective and have a sedative effect that can be unpleasant for the dog.”

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hepatic dysfunction. In people, topical exposure may elicit localized allergic skin reactions, and repeated or prolonged exposure may lead to skin sensitization. See full Prescribing Information at Cerenia.com.

All trademarks are the property of Zoetis Inc., its affiliates and/or its licensors. ©2014 Zoetis Inc. All rights reserved. October 2014. CER-00085

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Newport Beach Lifestyle | January 2015

L

ook 20 miles off the Southern California coast and you’ll spot Catalina Island: a Mediterranean-style playground that transports visitors to a different time and place. Island life, free from traffic and timelines, moves at a much slower pace.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned veteran, history-rich Catalina provides a new and unique experience every time.

History

Catalina was uninhabited when it was purchased in the early 20th century by industrialist William Wrigley, who transformed it into a world-class resort island.

First, he brought his Chicago Cubs team for spring training. Next, he built resorts and infrastructure to lure his wealthy and celeb friends from Los Angeles. Selling tourists on Catalina wasn’t difficult. Its natural beauty and quiet charm made it very alluring.

Today, Catalina is a premier resort destination for Los Angelinos—though it’s still a bit of a hidden gem for out-of-state visitors.

Getting There

Most people arrive via the Catalina Flyer, the ferry that makes regular trips from Newport Beach ($70 round trip, approximately 90 minutes). Impatient visitors may choose to arrive by Island Express helicopter service, which makes the trip in only 15 minutes (from Long Beach $250 round trip). CatalinaInfo.com You will arrive on the ferry docks at Avalon, which is the island's main community. It’s a gorgeous little town with a sheltered harbor, a casino, shopping, bars and numerous attractions. Almost everything can be reached by foot within a few minutes, but bicycle rentals are also available. If you prefer, rent a golf cart and tour the island at your leisure. The only mode of transportation you won’t find is the car.

There are very few of them on the island, and rental cars are non-existent.

Where to Stay

Hotel or condo, accommodations are ample on the island. During peak summer months, reservations are more difficult to obtain, so it’s wise to plan accordingly. If you’re looking for a nice departure from the traditional-style hotel room, Hamilton Cove Villas is the perfect choice. Reminiscent of Mykonos, Greece, the property boasts crisp white buildings nestled high above Descanso Beach. The breathtaking views immediately impart a feeling of relaxation and calm. The grounds are neatly manicured, and there are several amenities, including tennis courts and a private beach.

Since each villa is individually owned, interior appointments, as well as amenities, vary from unit to unit. Additionally, Hamilton Cove Villas is a gated community so you won’t be bombarded by droves of tourists buzzing around on golf carts.

To make a reservation, contact Catalina Island Vacation Rentals: 800.631.5280 FACT: American television producer Sherwood Schwartz often visited Catalina. He had the idea to create a surf-related television show. Catalina is not known for its surf, so he created Gilligan’s Island instead.

Adventure

There is no shortage of activities available on the island. However, if you can pick only one, the Zip Line Eco Tour is a must-do, can’t-miss endeavor! Guests propel down five different zip lines dropping from 600 feet above sea level with one run that is 1,100 linear feet long, all on its own.

On our tour, my two sons and I joined two 80-year-old gentlemen who were determined to put a red line through another exploit on their bucket list. Make no mistake, it was an exhilarating experience.

Admittedly, I was more than a little nervous when my toes were draped over the launch point and I heard my guide yell,

“zip ready, zip away.” Holding my breath, I took a leap of faith and soared across the canyon. It was incredible.

As you work your way through the zip course you will notice the stunningly beautiful scenery. This is where the eco-component to the tour comes into play. Truthfully, the guides are very knowledgeable, and they make the experience fun for people of all ages. However, depending on your anxiety level, you may not retain a lot of the information being shared. Check the website for tour times and restrictions: VisitCatalinaIsland.com Play

Billed as one of the most challenging miniature golf courses in the West, Golf Gardens is an absolute blast. Nestled in a serene garden setting just a mile from the beach, Golf Gardens is a deceptively difficult course. The refreshing lack of gimmicky windmills and doors that open and close only add to its charm. Instead, this 18-hole course relies on ingenious challenges and kinetic energy to land the nearly impossible hole-in-one.

Our favorite hole was No. 12. This uphill behemoth kept us entertained for quite a while. It was nearly impossible to conquer. My ball ended up all over the place, as opposed to where it should have been— this had my kids rolling their eyes. The entrance to Golf Gardens is at 10 Island Plaza, just half a block inland from North Beach and the Green Pier. (Adults $9; children and seniors $7.)

Tours

Once on the island, there are several tours you can take, if you’re tired of laying on the beach and are itching to do something different. In truth, Catalina plays to tourists, so they tend to offer all the typical tours. However, it also offers some incredible experiences that allow visitors to watch sea creatures play in their natural habitat and discover buffalo on an uninhabited continued >

catalina island

(continued)

In December 1924, 14 buffalo were turned loose on Catalina Island for use in filming the movie “The Vanishing American�. After filming, it was agreed that the buffalo could remain on the island and they were again turned loose to live off the land.

nothing short of spectacular. Departing by kayak from Descanso Beach, we made our way along the jagged shoreline gliding effortlessly over the crystalline water. Within a few minutes vista. The two best tours we discovered we spotted our first leopard shark. Our allowed us to glide over leopard sharks, guide reassured us that leopard sharks commune with buffalo, and take a trip to tend to be more shy than aggressive by the interior part of the island. These mini- nature, unless provoked. Their varietrips offered a wonderful departure from gated coloring and graceful movements the sometimes crowded streets of Avalon were mesmerizing, which had us leaning way over our kayaks to catch a better glimpse.

American author Zane Grey wrote many of his As we continued along the books while living on Catalina Island. The Zane coastline we saw a bald eagle, a Grey Pueblo is currently closed but recently sold pelican and eventually sea lions. for an undisclosed amount.

We learned that sea lions can be characterized by their external Kayak ear flaps. These playful creatures seemed The Leopards and Lions kayak tour to be having a great day sunbathing on with Descanso Beach Ocean Sports was the shore and playing in the waves. Not 18

Newport Beach Lifestyle | January 2015

entirely different from a day at the beach with my own family.

Our guided tour lasted about two hours and included paddle pants and a windbreaker to use during the trip.

Tip: You do not have to be an expert to paddle or navigate in a kayak. My 11-yearold son had no problem going in his own kayak. If you prefer, you can also rent kayaks by the hour and explore on your own.

KayakCatalinaIsland.com Jeep Eco Tour

The Catalina Island Conservancy is dedicated to preserving the land and waters of Catalina Island. Their two-hour Jeep Eco Tour was one of the best trips we took while visiting the island. Two different routes are offered, and both explore the interior parts of the island. We opted to take the airport route, which allowed us to explore the only airport on the island.

As we settled into the modified open-

air Jeep and securely fastened our seatbelts, our naturalist took us on a historical journey that kept my 14-year-old off his Did you know?

Spanish Explorer Juan Cabrillo discovered the island in 1542. cell phone and listening intently. This is not your typical boring tour with a guide that drones on with a canned speech. We found our naturalist to be very witty, informative and engaging.

Along the way we were treated to some awe-inspiring views and stunning sights. As we travelled along the dirt road, we stopped at a vista to watch

three buffalo grazing tranquilly. We learned about endemic animals and plants and the Catalina Shrew—a tiny insectivore that has been recorded only nine times from 1941 to 2002.

When we finally arrived at the airport, it felt like we had travelled back in time. Originally called the Buffalo Spring Airport, the facility opened in 1930. It was created by leveling off the top of a mountain, literally. The original hangar still stands, and houses visiting planes during the Catalina Air Show. As

for the air tower, it has its own claim to fame. It served as the backdrop for the 1979 movie “The In-Laws” starring the late Peter Falk and Alan Arkin.

After a 30-minute stop at the airport snack bar, which offered some of the best chocolate chip cookies on the island, we made our way back to town where our adventure came to an end.

CatalinaIslandConservancy.org

January 2015 | Newport Beach Lifestyle

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What's Cooking?

22

Newport Beach Lifestyle | January 2015

Y

VersatileSalmon

ou’ve probably heard that eating seafood rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids can help protect against heart disease while delivering other important nutrients. In fact, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends eating seafood twice a week for such benefits. Salmon is one fish long-heralded for its nutritional value, and Alaska canned salmon offers a convenient way to add more deliciously nourishing seafood to your diet.

Whether your tastes lean toward a traditional croquette drizzled with a light dill sauce, or a refreshing take on a pesto pasta salad, canned salmon is easy to prepare and surprisingly versatile.

Because canned and pouched salmon is shelf-stable, you can always have some on hand for a quick, tasty meal or flavorful snack. At the grocery store, simply look for “Alaska” on the lid or label to ensure a top-quality, wholly natural product with nothing added but a pinch of salt for flavor.

These recipes showcase how Alaska canned salmon can be adapted to a wide range of meals and lifestyles, from the indulgent to the über-healthy. For additional preparation tips and recipes, visit WildAlaskaSeafood.com.

The Many Benefits of Salmon • Alaska canned pink salmon has four times the omega-3s EPA and DHA, and 12 times the vitamin D as many popular canned meats and fish. It also has 25 percent of adults’ Recommended Daily Allowance for calcium and nearly meets the daily reference amount for selenium.

• Traditional pack canned salmon contains skin and delicate, edible bones that are rich in calcium and magnesium. Pressure-cooked in the can, they are so soft they can be easily blended into the salmon, adding extra nutrients and flavor. Skinless, boneless Alaska salmon is also available in cans and pouches.

• Pink salmon — the variety commonly found in cans — has a light color and mild flavor, while red salmon (or sockeye) has a richer, more intense flavor and color.

Toss blanched zucchini, tomatoes, onion and peas into pasta and stir to combine.

Gently fold in drained salmon; season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve immediately or chill before serving.

Nutrients per serving: 310 calories (46% from fat), 16 g total fat, 3 g saturated fat, 30 mg cholesterol, 17 g protein, 26 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 485 mg sodium, 214 mg calcium and 1300 mg omega-3 fatty acids

• • • • • • • • •

•

Alaska Salmon Pesto Pasta Salad Prep time: 25 minutes Servings: 8 to 10 8 ounces dry, small shell pasta 2 to 3 teaspoons garlic, finely minced 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto 1/2 cup light Italian salad dressing 1 zucchini, cut in 1/2-inch half-moon slices 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved 1 small red onion, thinly sliced 3/4 cup frozen peas, defrosted 1 can (14.75 ounces) traditional pack Alaska salmon or 2 cans or pouches (6 to 7.1 ounces each) skinless, boneless salmon, drained and chunked Salt and pepper, to taste

Cook pasta according to package directions; drain well. Let cool slightly then toss with garlic, pesto and dressing. Set aside.

Cook zucchini in covered microwavable container on high 2 minutes or until just tender and bright green.

• • • • • • • • •

Alaska Salmon and Chipotle Wrap Prep time: 15 minutes Servings: 4 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice 1 tablespoon chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons chopped red bell pepper 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped red onion 1 teaspoon chopped garlic 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 can (14.75 ounces) traditional pack Alaska salmon or 2 cans or pouches (6 to 7.1 ounces each) skinless, boneless salmon, drained and chunked continued >

What's Cooking?

(continued)

• 3 tablespoons light cream cheese or light sour cream • 1 teaspoon adobo sauce • 4 whole wheat tortillas (8-inch) • 4 large lettuce or cabbage leaves, shredded In bowl, mix lime juice, chiles, cilantro, bell pepper, red onion, garlic, salt and pepper. Gently stir in salmon until blended.

In small bowl, blend cream cheese and adobo sauce. Spread 1/4 mixture over each tortilla to within 1 inch of edge. Spread 2/3 cup salmon mixture over cream cheese. Top with 1/4 of lettuce and roll up burrito-style.

Repeat for remaining tortillas.

• For appetizers, cut each wrap into thirds (makes 12 appetizer servings).

• As a meal, cut each wrap in half (makes 4 entree servings).

Serve immediately.

Nutrients per serving (4 entrees): 305 calories, 8.5 g total fat, 2 g saturated fat, 25% calories from fat, 88 mg cholesterol, 32.5 g protein, 26.5 g carbohydrate, 4 g fiber, 1228 mg sodium, 130.5 mg calcium and 1290 mg omega-3 fatty acids

•

• • • • • • • • • • • •

24

Alaska Salmon Salad Sandwiches Prep time: 15 minutes Servings: 4 1 can (14.75 ounces) traditional pack Alaska salmon or 2 cans or pouches (6 to 7.1 ounces each) skinless, boneless salmon, drained and chunked 1/3 cup light mayonnaise 1 tablespoon lemon juice 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon capers, drained, chopped if large (optional) 1/3 cup finely diced celery 1/3 cup finely diced onion 1/4 cup dill or sweet pickle relish, drained Dash Tabasco sauce or pinch of black pepper 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or 1/2 to 1 teaspoon dried dill weed 8 slices whole-grain bread 24 thin slices cucumber 4 leaves green or red leaf lettuce

Newport Beach Lifestyle | January 2015

salmon, then sprinkle in bread crumbs and mix well. Shape mixture into 4 patties, 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick and 3 inches in diameter.

Heat nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and brush skillet with oil.

Fry salmon cakes for about 2 1/2 to 3 minutes per side. Cakes should be crisp and golden on the outside and still moist on the inside.

Serve with Yogurt Dill Sauce.

In medium bowl, combine salad ingredients. Add salmon and stir to combine well.

Divide salad among 4 slices of bread. Top each with 6 slices of cucumber and a leaf of lettuce. Top with remaining slices of bread and cut in half, crosswise.

Nutrients per serving: 381 calories (36% from fat), 15 g total fat, 3 g saturated fat, 65 mg cholesterol, 27 g protein, 34 g carbohydrate, 5 g fiber, 1236 mg sodium, 291 mg calcium and 1900 mg omega-3 fatty acids

• • • • • •

• • •

Alaska Salmon Cakes with Yogurt Dill Sauce Prep time: 21 minutes Servings: 4 1 egg 1/4 cup small-curd nonfat cottage cheese 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or 1 teaspoon dried dill weed 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning 1/4 cup sliced green onions 1 can (14.75 ounces) traditional pack Alaska salmon or 2 cans or pouches (6 to 7.1 ounces each) skinless, boneless salmon, drained and chunked 3 tablespoons garlic-and-herb bread crumbs Vegetable oil Yogurt Dill Sauce

In medium bowl, whisk egg lightly. Add cottage cheese, dill, lemon pepper and green onions; mix well. Mix in drained

• • • • •

Yogurt Dill Sauce 1/2 cup nonfat yogurt 1 1/2 teaspoons finely minced fresh garlic Salt and pepper 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or 1 teaspoon dried dill weed 1/4 cup grated cucumber (squeeze dry)

Mix yogurt and garlic, and add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in dill and cucumber.

Refrigerate, covered, until ready to serve.

Nutrients per serving: 217 calories (34% from fat), 8 g total fat, 2 g saturated fat, 112 mg cholesterol, 27 g protein, 8 g carbohydrate, 0.5 g fiber, 897 mg sodium, 320 mg calcium and 1800 mg omega-3 fatty acids

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What’s on our Website?

past issues - Current Articles Business Directory - contest registration get your news in our publications Visit us often at NewportBeachLifestylePubs.com January 2015 | Newport Beach Lifestyle

25

Driver's Notebook

Toyota’s New Avalon Heads in a Different Direction Article and Photography Tom Strongman

T

oyota’s fourth-generation Avalon, with a sport-coupe profile and a luxury-car interior, is aimed at a younger, hipper audience. That’s understandable because the median age of a current Avalon buyer is 64 years old.

Designed in Toyota’s Newport Beach, Calif., design studios, engineered in its Ann Arbor, Mich., tech center and manufactured in Georgetown, Ky., the new Avalon is a significant departure from earlier Avalons that were more like a Buick than a BMW. Not that the new car is a BMW, but its youthful styling is a key ingredient. The body was sculpted with sensuous lines and subtle surface creases that make it look sleek and purposeful. Its on-road stance grabs your attention immediately.

The slippery shape and careful underbody shielding results in a drag coefficient of 0.28 that is 0.01 higher than the Scion FR-S coupe. Lack of noise has become a Toyota trademark, and the Avalon slips down the highway with very little wind whistle, thanks to refinement of details such as the shape of the door handles.

Avalon prices begin at $30,990 for the XLE and top out at $39,650 for the Limited. A hybrid version is also offered, and it begins at $35,555 and tops out at $41,400.

I drove both models, but will focus primarily on the Limited with a 268-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 and a six-speed automatic transmission. The standard gasoline engine is more powerful and more fun to drive than the hybrid, and its mileage, rated at 21 miles per gallon in the city and 31 on the highway, is pretty reasonable. There are three performance modes – Normal, Eco and

Sport – that let the driver choose how the car feels. In Sport, the throttle response is crisper and the steering feels heavier. Eco softens the throttle response and reduces the power consumed by air-conditioning.

The hybrid is rated at 40 mpg city and 39 highway. It was very cold during my time with the hybrid and my city average was just under 30 mpg.

The Avalon is not a sports sedan, but the ride is nicely buttoned down without being harsh or uncomfortable. The electronic power steering is a nice combination of comfort and feel, while the handling is considerably more agile than Avalons of the past.

The Avalon’s cabin is almost as nicely crafted as a Lexus. The instrument panel is a pleasing combination of surface textures and materials, and the concave section in front of the passenger adds to a feeling of spaciousness. The handsome gauges and center-stack controls are positioned within easy reach of the driver. The capacitive touch switches on the center stack are among the best of the type that I have experienced. They provide good feedback and work with gloves. The sliding fanspeed switch is intuitive and slick.

Rear-seat legroom is generous, as is trunk space, even though the overall size of the vehicle is slightly smaller than earlier Avalons.

An LCD screen displays vehicle system information as well as the map and rearview camera when so equipped.

On cars equipped with the premium audio system, a smartphone app called Entune works with the vehicle to stream Pandocontinued >

26

Newport Beach Lifestyle | January 2015

Driver's Notebook

(continued)

ra music, listen to iHeartRadio, purchase movie tickets or make dinner reservations.

Entune also offers information about stocks, weather, fuel prices and sports.

The Limited also has three-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats and heated rear seats.

Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also available. Front, side and side-curtain airbags are standard, as are anti-lock brakes, traction control and vehicle stability control.

Price: The test car’s base price was $39,650.

Floor mats and destination charges brought the sticker price to $40,670.

Warranty: Three years or 36,000 miles with a five-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

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28

Newport Beach Lifestyle | January 2015

At A Glance Point: The redesigned Avalon is a breath of fresh air. The profile is handsome and aerodynamically efficient. The cabin is beautifully crafted, has ample space and feels like a more expensive vehicle.

Counterpoint: I might like the fishmouth grille to be a tad smaller.

2013 Toyota Avalon Limited Engine: 3.5-liter, 268-horsepower V-6 Transmission: Six-speed automatic Front-wheel drive Wheelbase: 111 inches Curb weight: 3,538 pounds Base price: $39,650 As driven: $40,670 MPG rating: 21 city, 31 hwy

BEAUTIFUL SMILE Q&A I have never had great looking teeth.

Can veneers help the shape, uneven size AND the color of my teeth?

Yes! Many people overlook just how many issues can be addressed by veneers. Not only can you brighten your smile but you can also adjust the size of your teeth to compliment the shape of your lips and create a beautiful smile.

My child is starting braces but I think her teeth need more than just straightening!

By addressing missing or disproportioned teeth prior to starting braces Dr. Smrecek can work with your Orthodontist to create spaces and improve alignment to accommodate Veneers or implants, giving your child not only a clinically excellent bite but also a smile that will take them through those important early adult years.

Dr. Peter T. Smrecek, D.D.S., Inc.

It's never too late to have a beautiful smile.

1401 Avocado Avenue, Suite 806, Newport Beach, CA 92660

(949) 759-8606 | www.petersmrecekdds.com

Lifestyle Calendar

January JANuary 28 BEYOND THE CANVAS: MARY CASSATT NEWPORT BEACH CENTRAL LIBRARY

JANuary 1-FEBruary 15 QUILTS MUZEO, ANAHEIM

Made at a time when America was coming to terms with what it meant to be a modern nation, the quilts in this exhibit unfold the stories of more than 140 years in American quilting. Muzeo.org

JANuary 3

Award-winning professor Jacqueline Hahn will present “Beyond the Canvas,” a fascinating art lecture series offering insights into legendary artists’ lives and artistic movements. Professor Hahn received a Distinguished Instructor honor from UC Irvine and has traveled the world lecturing on art history, literature and philosophy. The four-part series will include talks on renowned French impressionists and today’s event will focus on Mary Cassatt. The lecture will be held in the Friends Room. 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Adults only. NewportBeachLibrary.org

BRIDE WORLD EXPO

JANuary 30

OC FAIR & EVENTS CENTER, COSTA MESA

STOLEN MOMENTS: THE FIRST 100 YEARS OF JAZZ

Don’t miss Orange County’s annual wedding planning expo where brides-to-be can shop and compare 150 local wedding professionals including photographers, entertainers, cake bakers, bridal salons, tuxedos, invitations and romantic honeymoon destinations.

General/Adult $12, Senior (65+) $10, Military with ID $8, Children 12 & younger are free. Parking $7. BrideWorldExpo.com

Stolen Moments is a thoroughly captivating concert that uses a multi-media approach to introduce audiences to jazz music’s rich history and to the names, faces and music of some of its many masters. Tickets: $17 adults, $12 children. TheBarclay.org.

IRVINE BARCLAY THEATER, IRVINE

JANuary 6 CHAMBER CONNECT LUNCH BALBOA BAY RESORT, NEWPORT BEACH

Chamber Connect lunches and breakfasts offer business owners and professionals another way to get to know each other – your fellow Chamber members – and to grow your businesses. Each Chamber Connect group will be limited to no more than 10 Chamber members – each one will be unique to their specific industry. You must be a Chamber Member, and have a reservation to participate. 949.729.4411.

JANuary 17

JANuary 31

BABY & KIDZ EXPO

SNOW DAY

OC FAIR & EVENT CENTER, COSTA MESA

BREA DAM PARK, FULLERTON

Fun for the entire family! The Baby & Kidz expo is a one day event featuring vendors, giveaways, entertainment, activities, coupons, information and samples. Hours 10 a.m.–5 p.m. General/Adult $10, Senior (65+) $5, Military with ID $5, Children 12 & younger are free.

Parking $7. FamilyFunExpo.com

Tons of frosty snow will be delivered to the park to enable youngsters to sled, make snow people, and have old-fashioned snowball battles. Children are advised to wear warm clothes and gloves. The event time is 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. All participants must register online to be admitted. Regrestration ends January 30. FullertonEconnect.com.

30

Newport Beach Lifestyle | January 2015

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For a complete listing of our current advertisers, check out the Business Directory beginning on page 32.

Tell ‘em Newport Beach Lifestyle sent you!

January 2015 | Newport Beach Lifestyle

31

Business Directory Animals & Animal Care

Fashion & Accessories

Home Design & Furnishings

Restaurants, Food & Beverage

Art & Photography

Financial Services & Planning

Home Services

Tamarind of London (949) 715-8338 tamarindoflondon.com

Newport Animal Hospital (949) 706-8380 newportanimalhospital.com Mike Steele Photography (949) 510-3258 mikesteelephoto.com

Charities & Fundraisers

Real Estate Giving Tree (855) 814-9092 regtn.com

Dentists & Orthodontics

Peter T. Smrecek, Jr. DDS (949) 759-8606 petersmrecekdds.com

Education

LearningRx (949) 262-0333 learningrx.com/newport-beach

32

Jewels By Alan (949) 336-8282 jewelsbyalano.com

Back Bay Funding (949) 650-0770 backbayfunding.com

The Code Corporation (949) 795-3844 thecodecorp.com

Health & Wellness PTX One (949) 870-7891 ptxone.com

Home Builders & Remodelers Julie Laughton Design (714) 305-2861 julielaughton.com

Newport Beach Lifestyle | January 2015

Patio Furniture Plus (949) 574-4881 patio-plus.com The Maids - Tustin (714) 838-2278 themaids.com

Medical Clinics & Facilities Orange County Plastic Surgery (949) 888-9700 ocps.com

Property & Real Estate Santaniello Affiliates (949) 705-7373 bhhscalifornia.com Teles Properties, Inc. (949) 280-9762 tomunvert.com

Anders Catering (949) 295-3646 anderscatering.com

Wilma’s Patio (949) 675-5542 wilmaspatio@ymail.com

Parting Thoughts

Home Real Home Words Myquillyn Smith

I

’m a creative. I pretend to be a designer.

My entire job is to encourage women that they can create a beautiful, meaningful home. I’ve done it all wrong but I’m learning that it’s really not about the stuff at all, even when making a home.

If I want my home to be a place of connection, I’ll ask genuine questions and get to know the people in my home.

If I want my home to be a safe place to make a mistake, I’ll lower my standards for myself first, be forgiving of my own mistakes, laugh at myself—and allow others to see that.

If I want my home to be inspiring, I’ll pay attention to what inspires me.

If I want my home to be real, I’ll learn to embrace the imperfect, find the beauty in the undone, the broken, the unkempt, the everdayness and the mess.

If I want my home to be comfortable, I’ll first stop apologizing and focus on others instead of myself.

If I want my home to be a place of rest, I’ll consider my attitude and the tone I set when I am home. I’ll allow and plan for restful spaces.

34

Newport Beach Lifestyle | January 2015

This is the kind of home and beauty we have to fight for. Anyone can put pretty stuff in a room.

It takes intention to furnish a home with grace and rest and acceptance. I’m up for the challenge. I want to see past the worst and focus on the better. I want to search for the real beauty just waiting to be recognized. I want to make a home on purpose – with purpose.

I’m making home a safe, inspiring and life-giving place so we can go out and be who we were created to be. The Joneses don’t need to be kept up with, and secretly, they are tired of setting the mythical standard.

Homes are there to serve people, not the other way around.

May your home serve you and others so fully that it’s worn thin and beautiful in all the right places.

Myqyillyn Smith is a renowned author and blogger. Read her book, The Nesting Place: It Doesn’t Have to be Perfect to be Beautiful, or visit her blog, TheNester.com, for more inspiring words about home, and grace. Reprinted with permission.

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OUR COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE WILL MAKE YOU SMILE! Dr. Peter T. Smrecek attends more than 100 hours of continuing education in the latest dental technologies each year. This commitment to excellence has earned him a Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry, an honor that only 1% of the Dentists in the United States achieve, making him one of the top dentists in Orange County, and the nation. With more than 500 hours of advanced study on Orthodontics/Orthopedics, Dr. Smrecek offers uncommon expertise in tooth arrangement, jaw alignment, and facial balance. He has also completed more than 350 hours of post doctoral training in restorative and reconstructive techniques at the L.D. Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental education and another 150 hours at the Misch International Implant Institute.

Fillings • Veneers • Bonding • Bleaching • Crown & Bridge • Implants • Invisalign®

Dr. Peter T. Smrecek, D.D.S., Inc. It's never too late to have a beautiful smile.

1401 Avocado Avenue, Suite 806, Newport Beach, CA 92660

(949) 759-8606 | www.petersmrecekdds.com