"Our market recognition and sales have multiplied faster than we ever expected since we began advertising in Newport Mesa Magazine and Orange Magazine The team of professionals that does the artwork, photography & editorial
contributions in these quality publications is amazing and Jody ‘ s assistance in helping us achieve our goals is indispensable We plan to continue advertising in both magazines and hope to expand our participation to their other OC publications (HB Magazine and South County Magazine) as well " - Elaine Watrous, Law Offices of Donald A. Hunsberger
"My first thought about Newport Mesa Magazine is that the magazine staff are the nicest, most thoughtful, professional business people you could meet Mix these attributes with the niche geographic demographics the magazine targets, makes Newport Mesa a must for any advertiser looking to grow and connect with the communities the magazine serves "
- Ivar E. Roth DPM/MPH, Concierge Podiatry
Januar y / Februar y 2014 Issue
Publisher Community Publications, LLC.
Editor Jody Robinson (714) 596-6611
jody@newportmesamag com
Art Director David Perez
Managing Editor Heather Evans
Entertainment Editor Cherri Farah
Editorial Assistant Chelsea Murphy
Account Executives
Anthony Arcurio • Michael Cupic • Marlo Andersen
Kim Roberson
Distribution Managers Rolando Ruiz • David Starr
"My participation has already far exceeded my expectations and has been better than any other magazine advertising I've done I feel the Community Publications team really cares about helping me grow my business They were extremely fast in creating my ad design, very easy to work with and I've found them to be people who do what they say they will, which is exactly the type of business relationship I am looking for in a marketing partner " - Jonny Coates, Talega Window Washing
"We have been rewarded with significant new business thanks to being part of Newport Mesa Magazine We don't feel like advertisers - we feel like partners! There is always something wonderfully new with this publication that sets them apart from the others which allow us to meet fellow business owners and we all work together to strengthen our businesses and gain new quality clients Thank you, Newport Mesa Magazine!”
– Lana Farfan, Caught in the Moment Photography
"I keep hearing that print media is going away, but I can't find any evidence of that based on my experience in advertising with Newport Mesa Magazine For my business, it s been phenomenal - every time the magazine goes out, I consistently receive calls that have resulted in a steady stream of new clients I couldn t be happier with my placement and encourage other local business owners looking for avenues to increase their customer base to look no further than Newport Mesa Magazine "
- Candice Lopez, Call in the Crew
"Simply put advertising in Newport Mesa Magazine works My participation has resulted in new customers and the process couldn t have been easier Not only did the magazine offer design ser vices at no charge, they created a great ad without needing much input from me because they took the time to really understand my business The resulting ad does a great job of getting my ' message ' out - I'm very pleased
- Betty Darroch, Mission Wigs
Advertising Inquiries (714) 469-3495
Contributing Writers
Juris Bunkis, MD • Denise Carson • Catherine Darras
Christy Thom • Scott E West, DDS
Cover Photography
Lana Farfan, Caught in the Moment Photography
Home Financial Solutions
Purchase with No Waiting Period af ter a Shor t Sale
Purchase with No Waiting Period af ter a Bank ruptc y
Purchase with No Waiting Period af ter a Foreclosure
Laguna Beach
Stunning ocean view residence with unobstructed panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Catalina and San Clemente Islands This prestigious Three Arch Bay gem totals about 3 200 square feet of luxurious ocean view living in an amazing community No attention to detail has been spared in this home - great room with wood and slate flooring, windows and French doors that lead to the expansive deck of almost 1000 square feet to capture Catalina Island and sunset vistas On the main level is the ocean view master suite which includes a sunken, ocean view Jacuzzi tub, a large walk-in closet with custom built in cabinetr y and French doors leading to the large deck
Laguna Niguel
Stunning Mediterranean home situated on a double lot in guard gated Bear Brand Ocean Ranch Offering 5 bedrooms, 5 1/2 bathrooms and 5,500 square feet of elegant living space Attractive marble and hand tooled dark wood flooring throughout, high ceilings, and a dramatic two stor y foyer and living room Courtyard with soothing fountain, built-in speakers, arched door ways and numerous upgrades throughout both levels. The master suite features a large fireplace, spacious balcony with ocean views, retreat, spa tub, new stone shower, dual vanities and large walk-in closets with organizers. Entertainer s resort-like backyard features a Pebble Tech pool and spa with water features, fire pit, outdoor built-in barbecue and bar seating with granite and stone counters Cascading rock fountain, numerous patios and tropical landscaping
Spectacular and highly upgraded estate located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in the San Marino community of Coto De Caza This home boasts an incredible floor plan with a main floor guest suite office/den and spacious kitchen that opens up to the oversized living and dining room areas Upstairs are four additional bedrooms, including the spacious master with its own private master retreat The backyard is per fect for entertaining with a pool, spa,
Gorgeous upgraded and remodeled home in the prestigious community of Stoneridge Estates Exquisite details including brazilian wood, Italian marble, premium plush carpet and Turkish antique patterns throughout Spacious backyard with salt water Pebble Tech pool and spa, panoramic mountain views and outdoor barbecue Extremely open floor plan complete with dramatic entr y and staircase, soaring ceilings and elegant formal living and dining rooms Romantic master with retreat, fireplace and private balcony with hillside views Over $200,000 in recent upgrades.
Dana Point
Located
San Juan Ca pistrano
Coto De Caza
&Health Beauty
Dr. Juris Bunkis of Orange County
Plastic Surgery will answer your questions and share before and after photos of actual patients each month.
Have a question or comment for Dr. Bunkis? Email him at info@ocps.com, call 949-888-9700 or visit his office at 4501 Birch Street in Newport Beach. For more info, visit www orangecountyplasticsurgery com
I hate my inner arms I am 56 years old, have never been fat, I eat well and exercise almost every day My muscles are strong but the skin of my inner arms jiggles when I move my arm and my arms look gross I saw a plastic surgeon who tried to talk me into having inner arm skin excised and showed me some photographs I could not believe the scar! A friend of mine had her inner arms liposuctioned but her arm skin still jiggles Are there any other alternatives?
J L Corona del Mar
We would have to see you in person to let you know what options would be best suited to your situation Treatments do range from a simple liposuction procedure to an excision of inner arm skin Inner arm skin excision is called a brachioplasty and is an excellent procedure for patients who have a massive skin excess following weight loss. But you are correct in saying that the resultant scar extends from the arm pit to the elbow, will usually spread and be noticeable, and is not appropriate for most patients who are not in the massive weight loss category. In someone who has lost a hundred pounds and began with a lot of excess skin, the scar is an acceptable trade off to having the extra skin. Liposuction is another alternative but is most effective in younger patients who do have a mild fatty excess, no skin excess, and still have good skin tone. But if your friend is similar to you in age, with some loss of skin elasticity, it would be unlikely for a liposuction alone to improve the inner arm skin laxity For tunately, we now have an alternative for the “in between” patients who are too lax for a liposuction alone but not bad enough to warrant the long and visible scar along the inner arm. Our new option is a radiofrequency treatment in which, after a liposuction, through the same tiny stab wounds, a radiofrequency probe with a
temperature sensor near the tip is inserted into the layer just beneath the skin and the skin heated to 60 degrees Celsius, a temperature that scientists have found will cause significant skin shrinkage without causing surface burns Orange County Plastic Surgery was the first medical practice in Orange County to acquire this unique new technology in 2012, the hottest new radiofrequency procedure now available. Dr Juris Bunkis has developed an extensive experience with this technology and has been asked by the manufacturer, ThermiAesthetics®, to be on the company’s Clinical Advisory Board and to serve as a teacher to other physicians wishing to use this technology This minimally invasive procedure works well for inner arms, necks, abdomens and thighs. Patients who have a significant excessive amount of skin excess will still be better served with a facelift, tummy tuck, arm or thigh lift or other traditional procedure But this procedure is ideal for any patient who is not bad enough for the aforementioned procedures but wishes a tighter neck, tighter inner arm, less folds above the bra or in front of the axilla, less abdominal or back folds, with cellulite, or inner thigh laxity, not severe enough to warrant a skin excision If you have any specific questions about cosmetic procedures, your best bet would be to see a qualified plastic surgeon to review your options Pease feel free to contact our office at 949-888-9700 to set up an appointment with Dr Forsberg or Bunkis; you may also check out our web site at www.orangecountyplasticsurgery com to see further examples of similar patients.
Pre & Post Inner Arm ThermiAesthetic® procedure in a fit, thin, 67 year old female, certainly not with enough skin laxity to warrant a brachioplasty. Actual OCPS Patient, your results may vary
Pre & Post Neck ThermiAesthetic® procedure in a 40 year old with minor neck laxity but not enough to warrant a facelift procedure
Actual OCPS Patient, your results may vary.
Hospice Care of the West
Life Review Video Captures Waves of Wisdom with Terry Martin, Surfing Icon by
Denise Carson, author of Parting Ways
Shortly after entering hospice, Terry Martin, an icon in the surfing world, returned to the seaside reminiscing about the first time he saw surfers on the coast, during a life review interview video recorded by Jay Gianukos of Hospice Care of the West in Orange County
“There were no ropes like water skiing, there was nothing but balance and flirting with gravity to keep yourself in the wave,” Terry said.
Terry had just come to then end of the road with cancer and had just begun care with Hospice Care of the West For those unaware, a life review is a mental universal process of looking back as we near the sunset of life The interview is a raw last conversation guided by questions that spark reminisces of past experiences, life lessons, spiritual wisdom to pass on wrapped in hopes and dreams to the next generation. This award-winning life review video program founded at Hospice Care of the West preserves this inward journey and personal history through a video recorded interview that is edited with photos and music from the family archives The life review video is then given as a lasting gift to the hospice patient and family.
These life reviews are possible when comfort in hospice is achieved through collaboration of the team a nurse, social worker, spiritual care counselor, home health aide who can help with bathing and a volunteer which care for the family and patient as one This core team cares for the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of the patient and family in the place they call home Many families do not know the relief and amazing life experiences hospice can bring.
Through the life review interview, the Hospice Care of the West team and his family joined Terry on a sensory rich, epic ride through surfing history, while he imparted spiritual and soulful wisdom gained surfing the waves of life.
“One of the things that made it very simple for me in life was one of the scriptures, as a kid that I read,” Terry said “For what does it profit a man if he gains
This award-winning life review video program founded at Hospice Care of the West preserves this inward journey and personal history through a video recorded interview that is edited with photos and music from the family archives. The life review video is then given as a lasting gift to the hospice patient and family.
the whole world and losses his soul in the process From that day forward I had a brand new set of priorities ”
For Terry, his wife Candy and their family, Hospice Care of the West transformed his last days. Terry returned to his youth with glee, remembering how back in his day, there were no surfboard shops, you either made one or you bought someone’s old board At just 14 years old, Terry made one.
He reflected on how he was given the divine gift of being able to shape with a veteran sculptor’s hands He could see the board in a plank of wood and later foam. As he described the magic of shaping, it was as if I was standing right there in his shop watching the board come to life Terry would shave and shape until the board in his mind was realized, and tangible in his hands
Just as any inventor will tell you, at first he was banished by his idols on the beach for reinventing the traditional heavy board into a lighter surfboard that liberated him to finesse a wave. But then when other surfers saw him in action on his first day out, they wanted a piece of the action. Before he knew it, Terry was making boards for all the surfers on his break including professional board company Hobie. By the end of his life, Terry shaped more than 80,000 boards In this life review, he reflected on the questions he would ask each surfer who came into the shop Well, he would ask, “Where do you like to surf? What is your favorite thing to do on the board?”
Terry lived to create an instrument of fun for others to connect with nature and balance in their lives. He is truly in a class shaped of his own
Hospice Care of the West was privileged to be chosen as hospice of choice for Terry and his family. They are ready to walk with you on this path when you need them
Wertz & Co.
by Jody Robinson • photography by Lana Farfan, Caught in the Moment Photography
If you’re anything like me – entrepreneurial, married and parenting young children – your days are likely defined by dealing with the challenges of building a business, balancing family and frequently moving at what feels like warp speed with barely enough hours in the day to get half of what I’d like accomplished As a journalist, numbers have never been a particular strength – keeping the books, managing the business’ finances, taxes, payroll, etc have always been a bit of a struggle and never something I look forward to.
As a business owner, I understand the importance of identifying the experts in their respective fields upon whom I can rely to help navigate the areas of my enterprise that are necessary to my continued growth and long-term success But finding trusted advisors who really listen to what I say, with whom I can develop a strong relationship and not feel like … well, just a number (pardon the pun), that’s no mean feat no matter what industry you are in
Which is likely why Russ Wertz and Katie Sterling of the Irvine-based Wertz & Company are such a breath of fresh air to the entrepreneurs and business professionals who seek their services As the founder and CEO, Wertz represents the “Old Guard” with years of experience,
knowledge and expertise that appeal to the owners and operators of large, mature businesses Sterling brings a youthful, cutting-edge approach to accounting and tax issues that is relevant and relatable to the company’s “Next Generation” of entrepreneurs
Different By Design
Wertz & Co. is a different type of accounting firm. Client focus drives everything that the firm does - from the way that it is structured to the way that the staff approaches offering services No matter what the client’s service needs are (proactive, year-round, consultative, affordable) the experience is personal, responsive, meaningful and trusting
“I truly love what I do,” said Sterling “Working with small businesses and entrepreneurs to solve business issues, simplify processes and plan for the future are the areas that I enjoy the most ”
Sterling has worked in public accounting since 2007 Her experience includes working with closely held businesses and their owners, as well as working with start-up companies from their initial launch through all the various stages of growth.
“It never ceases to excite us working alongside entrepreneurs and business owners who are full of passion and looking for guidance and assistance,” Wertz said “It is a great privilege to contribute to [our clients’] long-term success and share in their celebratory milestones along the way ”
Wertz has been the driving force behind the firm’s success for many years. He never tires of discovering new ways to add value to the business, and he greatly enjoys his role working directly with entrepreneurs, business owners and employees to help them solve problems and reach the level of success that they envision
"The firm empowers its employees to be who they are and service clients at the highest level,” said Wertz.
Wertz & Co. is a different type of accounting firm. Client focus drives everything that the firm does - from the way that it is structured to the way that the staff approaches offering services.
The People Behind the Product
“What drives great firms are great people” said Wertz
Accordingly, he said that Wertz & Co. looks for employees who are passionate about service; who are willing to get to know clients; and who are all about building trust and confidence with them over an extended period of time.
“We truly are different because we pay attention to what you say; we listen, we understand and then we take action,” he said
Many of the company's employees have held positions at large accounting firms so they individually and collectively bring a background of understanding how the "household names in the industry" work According to Wertz, what makes his team unique is that they prefer to work in a more intimate structure, where everyone knows each other’s names, and where they develop close, long-term relationships with their clients
Sterling noted, however, that the modest size of the company does not limit its ability to deliver big results
“Our business is built upon a keen understanding of the needs of our entrepreneurial and small business clients,” she said. “We surround their most vital needs with a strong suite of advice, ideas, competencies and solutions to help them thrive ”
Sterling added that, although they are hired on to serve as professional advisors in the tax and accounting arena, the team builds such strong relationships with their clients that they often call them first for all manner of business advice - well beyond the scope of tax or accounting issues.
“Our firm's culture revolves around the idea that the client absolutely comes first,” said Wertz “Many companies say the same, but few practice it As a result, our employees have a strong belief in a core set of values that have been consistently followed since I founded Wertz & Co. more than 20 years ago.”
Giving Back
Wertz & Co ’s commitment goes farther than its employee/client relationships It extends to the community in which they work. In addition to making a difference in the lives of their clients, they are making a difference in the lives of people facing special challenges, from working with children’s charities to supporting military families.
Their charitable endeavours include working with Camp Pendelton’s “Friends of the Family” program, which helps to support Navy and Marine families during the holidays Each year, the employees of Wertz & Co. sponsor a family of four by purchasing, wrapping and delivering a bundle of Christmas gifts for each member of the family
International charitable works include the company’s involvement with Peanut Butter & Jesus, helping to get nutritional assistance to Malawi’s more than 250,000 undernourished children.
Wertz also serves on the board of Crossroads for Kids, a non-profit organization created to provide financial assistance through education and other types of support to “at need” children.
Whether giving back to the community or giving back to their clients, the company’s values are at the core of everything that they do
“Unlike most CPA firms, I have structured Wertz & Co in a traditional business format that allows our service professionals to concentrate on you and the issues that you face,” said Wertz “As a result, I can say with pride that our people are client centered and that they truly enjoy, as I do, serving the entrepreneurial business community ”
Our Values Keep Us Accountable
Our values are at the core of everything we do at Wertz & Company We are proud to share them with you We expect you to always hold us accountable to the lofty promises these values support
• Our VISION is to always be Client Center
• Our MISSION is to empower our clients to reach their highest aspirations
• Our STRATEGY is to be entrepreneurial
• Our PROFESSIONAL SERVICE PROCESS is to:
o Ask the right questions
o Listen attentively
o Understand fully
o And only the to Act
• Our PHILOSOPHY compels us to Think Outside the Box, apply our Insight, and focus on Innovation
• Our VALUES are unshakable – they include Right Relationship, Depth of Resources and a Passion for Results
Client Bill of Rights
“There is no ambiguity. Through our Client Bill of Rights, we are explicit in
communicating the service we provide.”
high-end listings has been going strong for nearly 20 years. From a seller’s standpoint, when you list with Lee Ann, your property gets instant, incredible exposure by a known name in the local real estate market with a reputation for actively bringing in buyers
The bottom line is that if you’re looking to buy or sell, you want to work with a professional who is uniquely qualified to get the job done by putting ethics and service first
Lee Ann and her team currently operate out of a trio of offices fronting Coast Highway – in Laguna Beach, Newport Beach and on the water in Huntington Harbour
In the following interview, Lee Ann shares the inspiration for starting her own business, her strategy for staying on the cutting-edge of current trends and the importance of adapting in this ever-evolving real estate market.
Newport Mesa Magazine: After having been a successful broker working for a real estate agency for over 10 years, why did you decide to forge your own path?
Lee Ann Canaday: I bought a franchise and brought on agents because I felt it was impossible to be truly successful in real estate by trying to build your business on your own I was pleased that my approach to real estate was so successful, but I knew I needed a team of people to help me grow Real estate is a 24/ 7 job. The last thing I wanted to become burned out and give my clients a tired, lackluster experience I had been making money and doing well, but that’s not the only important thing in life - leaving a legacy and giving to others is
NM: What do you believe sets The Canaday Group apart from the competition?
LC: The biggest thing that sets us apart from the competition is the huge exposure each of our listings receive.
The Canaday Group: Ethics and Service First
by Jody Robinson
Whether you are buying or selling a home in Orange County, there are certainly no shortage of realtors interested in earning your business But few can bring as much to the table as Lee Ann Canaday and The Canaday Group.
With over 30 years of experience as a real estate broker in the Southern California market, Lee Ann has built her reputation and extremely successful business on a foundation of uncompromising moral and work ethics, industry knowledge, marketing savvy and staying abreast of the trends, rules and laws of real estate.
Lee Ann and her team of 18 licensed real estate agents sell “all types of (primarily residential) real estate, some smaller commercial buildings and apartments.” But because the marketing she does on behalf of her clients is so extensive and casts such a huge net, Lee Ann’s “sweet spot” over the years has centered around high-end homes (the median price of her current listings is $3 85 million) The Canaday Group print ads dominate the back covers of virtually every real estate-related publication in the region, she works with 50 different web partners and her weekly television program showcasing her
In real estate as in any industry, to be successful, you have to be able to adapt Back in early 2008, I saw that shor t sales were becoming a trend, so I enrolled in the very first class to become a certified property expert I saw short sales as niche in which I would be able to establish myself as an expert. As it turns out, establishing myself as an exper t in shor t sales proved to be both a career opportunity and a good way to help people
NM: What are your plans for continued growth?
LC: I built this business for my daughter. Christa Lee has worked for me since age 11. She helped host all of my open houses and nobody got by her without signing in! Today, she’s a 26-year-old graduate of Chapman University and is part of the Canaday Group She’s been selling real estate for about four years and it’s incredible to have her on the team ”
Clockwise from Top (L): Lee Ann Canaday, her daughter Christa Lee, Hunter Jack and Bernie
Laguna Niguel: M-F
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You’re Getting Sleepy …
by Catherine Darras
Although the experience of a hypnotherapy session is extremely relaxing, it is not a state of sleep. In fact, some of the classic resulting effects are those of feeling more awake, clear and focused Many people who want to make changes throughout the year have great success using this process.
Merriam-Webster's definition of 'Resolution' is: "finding an answer or solution to a conflict, problem, etc ; resolving something; or, an answer or solution to something "
We tend to think of the New Year ’s resolution as a punishment or deprivation. No wonder an estimated 88% of these plans fail. This tradition is not about a period of sacrifice, but is intended to bring about positive changes that will create indefinite life improvement - even if it's just to exercise more resulting in your looking and feeling better
The reason most resolutions are not successful is that, though we are willing at the time we make them (following two months of indulgence and distraction of the holidays), after a few weeks of life getting back to normal, our "willpower" starts to wane, and the goal may not be forefront in our minds anymore
To quote Albert Einstein: "When imagination and willpower are in conflict, imagination always wins." Your subconscious believes your thoughts and imagination. If you're thinking, "I don't have time to exercise," your subconscious mind believes it
In a deeply relaxed state, your subconscious is more receptive to positive suggestions "I enjoy exercise, and it’s a priority for me. I have plenty of energy, and look forward to looking and feeling better " Following hypnotherapy, clients are often surprised by how effortlessly and automatically the changes happen. Hypnotherapy is also extremely effective with physical pain, anxiety and fear
There are many misconceptions about hypnosis, which cause some people to have fears of the practice. Hypnosis is mistakenly viewed as mind-control or demonic by many misinformed people In reality, the client is in control and cannot be convinced to do anything they don’t wish to If we’ve been blessed with the ability to heal ourselves and make positive life changes, it seems negligent to not acknowledge and take advantage of our abilities in a safe and sensible way
While you consider this, here are a few suggestions for more successful resolutions:
• Don't make too many at once – decide on what’s most important.
• Choose changes you're passionate about, rather than what seems acceptable to others
• Write down WHY you want it, and post this where you'll see it regularly. Be specific.
• Break it down into small changes (such as, start by walking one block a day for a week 1-1/2 the following week, etc. Decide what’s reasonable and achievable for you.)
• As you fall asleep at night, picture yourself accomplishing the change that you want. Experience the satisfaction you'll feel.
Here’s to a successful new year!
Newport Beach
Growth business opportunity goes to the dogs
Dogtopia, the leading dog daycare franchise is ac tively seeking franchisees throughout Orange County
In April of 2000, Amy Nich facing a tough decision; every loving dog owner A proached and she had to suitable boarding facility feisty Boston Terrier Griff sought a place where G could play in open space, stretch receive lots of personal atten Simply stated, she wanted him be happy and she didn' t want feel guilty about leaving him. Unfortunately the kennels she found didn' t quite fit the bill She settled on leaving him with her veterinarian, because they offered regular walks, extra treats and she knew he would be safe, but she couldn't shake that feeling of guilt She thought of him, and his well-being, throughout her vacation.
Different by design
Dogtopia’s design mirrors that of a chic, upscale spa Laid out in a similar manner as a children’s daycare facility, Dogtopia has multiple playrooms to suit every dog’s personality and size. In addition to daycare and boarding, many Dogtopia locations also offer a spa, self-service dog wash, and a boutique to pamper dogs of all shapes and sizes.
Based on the outstanding success of the original location, Amy established a franchise company in 2005 to grow the concept nationally. By 2011, twentythree locations were in operation from California to New Jersey
A seasoned entrepreneur and philanthropist, Jan Folk, recognized the company’s tremendous growth opportunity and jumped at the chance to expand the concept into Orange County
Orange Dog Foundation (a charity started in Canada s “Freedom Flights” transporting abandoned pupto new homes), Folk was the perfect fit to develop Orange County region. She is now seeking select nchisees to own and operate 13 new Dogtopia locaons throughout the area.
ortunities are available to convert existing dog daye and boarding facilities to the Dogtopia brand, as well as target key real estate opportunities for new locations throughout Orange County
ogtopia was a natural fit for me because of my years e County,” said Folk “I share Dogtopia's dedication to pet charities, as well as passion for community involvement. The company's proven business model and experienced leadership team result in a smart, sustainable investment opportunity for franchisees.”
Amy knew she wasn' t the only canine parent to feel this way. Within the year, Amy began building a plan for her own dog care facility. Dogs would be afforded open space to romp and play with one another, in an upscale environment with well-trained staff to care for and love them. Owners would actually look forward to dropping their dogs off!
In June of 2002, the very first Dogtopia dog daycare and spa opened in Tysons Corner, VA Soon after happy tails were wagging through the door for daily daycare appointments, boarding vacations and grooming fluff and dries Live webcams were added to give loving owners a peek into their dog's day and reassured those on vacation that their dog was having as great a time as they were.
As the company’s second RD, Folk is par t of Dogtopia’s aggressive growth strategy to expand its brand to more than 400 locations across the U S and Canada over the next seven years. In October 2012, the company entered into a strategic partnership with Thomas Franchise Solutions, Ltd (TFS), an investment firm dedicated to guiding and growing select unique franchise concepts.
Getting star ted
Taking the first steps toward opening your own business is a life-altering and exciting experience, but it can also be a scary one There are many questions to be answered. How do you go about picking a business that's just right for you? How do you find the right location? How do you market the new business?
Within a franchise system you have the security of knowing you're never alone There is always someone to turn to for answers.
How many times have you wished there were a top quality, personalized and medical-grade foot spa near you? Ever wished you could not only pamper your feet, but also work with trained Podiacurists™ who could offer supervision by a renowned podiatrist?
Look no further! Podiacare™ - offered exclusively at Concierge Podiatry and Spa, Newport Beach, is finally here!
Under the direction of renowned podiatrist for 33 years, Dr. Ivar Roth, we offer a one-of-a-kind, one stop shop for all your foot care needs Podiacare
Finallly . . . A Luxury Foot Spa With Medical Expertise
is offered only by Concierge Podiatry, a leading podiatry office based in Newport Beach for 28years Come benefit from Dr Ivar Roth’s onsite supervision along with the best foot care specialists, at a fraction of what a podiatrist would charge
Treat Your Feet – You Deserve It
Our mission is to make your feet look as beautiful as possible. We manage the full gamut of your nail care, from corns and calluses to offering elegant pedicures, manicures, nail artistry and now, Minx, a solid nail coating that extends fashion to your nails Our staff includes Podiacurists Gina Reich and Rachel Stewart - topnotch, experienced professionals who understand your individual needs. Our certified trainer Minx trainer, Crystal Rice is among the very best you’ll find
We’ll Come to You!
Want top care in the privacy of your own home? No problem! We’re proud to announce our new mobile office Call for details!
We look for ward to ser ving you in our expanded full ser vice spa, opening just after the New Year. CALL NOW to book an appointment: 949-650-1147. Concierge Podiatr y and Spa. • 351 Hospital Road #407 •
Good Vibes, Good Eats - After 25 Years, Wahoo’s is Just as Tasty
by Jody Robinson
One of Orange County’s most iconic family business stories began on the second floor of a little Chinese restaurant in Sao Paolo, Brazil That’s where three brothers, Wing, Ed and Mingo, spent their earliest years and where, after school, you could find them in their parents’ restauant below, peeling shrimp or washing dishes. In 1975, he family moved here, and when the boys weren’t busy helping their parents with their new restaurant venture, they were surfing Their love of the spor t saw them frequenting Baja, where they grew to crave he specialty of charbroiled fish, salsa and tortillas In 988 the brothers decided to combine their love of surf and food to create a restaurant with an eclectic Mexican/Brazilian/Asian menu and a Hawaian north-shore vibe Wahoo’s Fish Taco was born
In 2013, the Wahoo’s brothers celebrated their 25th anniversary in business Since the opening of the first location an entire generation has come of age – and it knows Wahoo’s. Mom comes back time and again because it’s easy, affordable and healthy; and the kids don’t mind because, frankly, Wahoo’s is a cool place to hang.
“Hanging out was the real inspiration behind Wahoo’s,” says Wing Lam, the brother whose face you are most likely to have seen around town, since he does most of the public interface while Ed and Mingo are more focused on building and operations. “I just wanted to hang out with my buddies who were surfers and in the OC surf industry I love to surf, but I wasn’t as good as most of the guys I wanted to hang out with, so having a place where they could all hang allowed me to be part of their tribe ”
County, with a total of 88 total stores in7 states In October they announced their first overseas location to open in Tokyo, Japan
For all their growth, Wahoo’s remains essentially local Wahoo’s hasn’t just been a place to feed Orange County kids quality food in a positive atmosphere; many of those kids end up going to work for Wahoo’s, which employs over 700 Southern Californians and about 2,000 people chainwide. All those good vibes and delicious Mexican/ Brazilian/Asianinspired dishes aren’t just good for our souls and bellies; they’re good for our economy.
Wing and his brothers keep the tribe vibe alive by par ticipating in over 100 events each year across Orange County. They sponsor charitable functions, golf tournaments and corporate events, but they get really excited about events that interest and benefit kids: spor ts events, athletics programs, school fundraisers, local surf and skate contests and more Their “School Nights” program, where 20% of the profits from sales are earmarked for the participating school, has become turnkey for everyone involved (if you represent a public or private school, just send them an email).)
“The most rewarding part of my job is being able to put a smile on people’s faces,” says Wing. “We’re privileged to become par t of our neighbors’ daily lives.”
What’s next in the lives of Wing, Ed and Mingo? Plans for growth include opening additional locations in Long Island, Philadelphia, Ari-
As it turned out, people wanted to be part of the Wing-Ed-Mingo tribe The first Wahoo’s location in Costa Mesa was a huge success from early on In 25 years, 17 Wahoo’s locations have opened in Orange
zona, Las Vegas, Northern California and possibly a couple more locations here in Orange County where they’ll be met with the support of the locals
Where Summers Go Swimmingly
& spas from Gold Coast Pool & Spa
Apool is an enormous value to a raws friends and family to you; it’s r exercise and respite alike; it’s a ull of fun waiting to happen. When un-down and bleeding energy (and e there’s no tomorrow, it’s the assle a homeowner ever entero if you have a pool (or the semone), or if you are considering a pool, the question is: How do you th a pool that’s an advantage, not on?
tter You might say that Nick grew ecutive of one of the largest pool a young man, he worked for his far and maintenance clientele before company that installed pools He would listen to the owners brag about the price they had gotten for pools they would install with no finesse and little quality, and he knew that he could not only build better pools, he could give homeowners everything they really wanted in their biggest backyard fixture. He founded Gold Coast Pool & Spa, now the premier builder and remodeler of custom swimming pools in Orange County.
Nick quickly enlisted the help of Rick Fulton, one of the best softscape and landscape designers in the region Together Nick and Rick have
designed and built thousands of pools and spas across the county, from simple shapes to extraordinary water features characterized by rich foliage, waterfalls, cabanas, bathrooms, outdoor kitchens and fireplaces More and more, homeowners are coming to them to reinvent existing pools, which is always an exciting challenge for Nick and Rick. Dilapidated, dysfunctional pools are transformed into beautiful, energy efficient watery escapes that can truly be enjoyed Whether designing new pools or remodeling old ones, Gold Coast Pool & Spa’s purpose is to create pool environments that turn your backyard into a place of elegance, beauty and style that welcomes you and the ones you love, every day
“Quality pools and beautiful backyards are a product of excellent, detailed design and honest work, simple as that,” says Nick. “When you have a good idea of what elements you want, you can trust our vision to tie it all together. We want you to love your pool and enjoy your backyard every single day Otherwise, what’s the point?”
For most homeowners, this comes down to a couple of factors: cost and comfort.
New technologies developed as recently as within the last decade have dramatically altered the energy efficiencies and therefore the cost efficiencies of swimming pool equipment The impact is so remarkable that Nick asserts that with key technology upgrades, homeowners can save up to 90% of what they currently spend in energy costs using outdated, inefficient technology. That means heating your pool won’t
Owner
by Betsy Sanz • Cover photography by Lana Farfan, Caught in the Moment Photography
send you to the poorhouse, which means you’ll likely heat (and enjoy) your pool far more often.
Since the beginning of swimming pools, the arrival of summer was trumpeted not just by the scents of jasmine and waffle cones, but by the chokingly dubious smell of calcium and sodium hypochlorite, replete with all its unhappy byproducts: burning eyes, dry skin and green hair The reign of chemical chlorine is over Today, homeowners, with the help of advocates like Nick and Gold Coast Pool & Spa, are turning to natural chlorine (aka saline) pools for healthy recreational swimming Did you know that converting your chemical chlorine pool to a safe, natural saline pool is not only possible, but is possible within hours? Saline also requires less maintenance and does less damage to pumps and equipment, making your pool not only a ton more pleasant but also less costly to maintain. Such are the benefits of conver ting to saline that Nick promises to give his clients “nearly care-free pools and spas ”
If you have a swimming pool that is in need of a cosmetic remodel, a saline conversion or a technology update, or if you want to increase the value of your proper ty and the quality of your domestic lifestyle by installing a custom pool, consider contacting Gold Coast Pool & Spa The firm is a fully licensed general contractor, possessing a B1 and C53 custom pool builders licenses Unlike your stereotypical construction contractors, Nick and Rick walk every project through design, installation and finishing, a factor that is almost as refreshing as a dip on a summer’s day.
The Brain Advantage
by Ann Laurence and Heather Evans
For any parent, a diagnosis of attention-deficit, hyperactive disorder (ADHD) or autism-spectrum-related disorders can be devastating. Particularly when the prevailing treatment seems to revolve around "psychopharmacology," which largely serves to mask symptoms rather than treat the actual cause and worse, prescription drug use can result in a host of potentially severe side effects The same holds true for adults - young and old - suffering from anxiety, depression, memory issues or post-traumatic brain disorder
Since 2001, Stephanie Reese, PhD and the professionals at BrainAdvantage have been helping change people's lives through a non-invasive, drug-free therapy that demonstrates great promise in correcting and stabilizing the brain function of their clients afflicted with any of the aforementioned conditions
“When we first opened, we thought to limit our practice to children with ADHD and elders with memory issues, dementia and Alzheimer's. And then the first client who walked through our door was a motorcycle racer with traumatic brain injury she had suffered from multiple accidents," says Dr. Reese. "When we were very successful in helping her overcome her issues of anxiety and depression, we discovered that we could help others outside the scope of ADHD and memory conditions, and that’s how we got our full spectrum start."
The BrainAdvantage program, which is designed to be "pleasant and effective for all ages," starts with a comprehensive assessment.
“After we determine the issues in question, we employ an integrated system of diverse technologies for training so we can customize the program to fit each individual’s needs," she says.
Dr. Reese's research and experience has shown that a one size/one technology approach does not work for everyone For that reason, she starts every course of training with an assessment that measures brain function, memory, fluency (how well you comprehend abstract thought and words), executive function, auditory and visual processing, neuro-motor skills (to determine how brain and body are working together), cognitive testing, visual skills testing (to check how eyes are working together), and other special tests designed for specific issues The client moves from computer station to a station using specialized software and hardware.
"After these tests are completed, we assemble a report that integrates the results of all the tests and design a training regimen that best addresses the issues we discovered for that specific individual,” says Dr. Reese.
“If the client has a need that we can address, we start the training regimen with about three sessions per week, each lasting about 1-1/2 hours,” she says “The course of training typically requires 20 30 sessions, much less than the typical EEG neurofeedback treatment protocol. And, we provide some of the technology we use to the client so that they can continue to do par t of the work at home This improves performance, shor tens sessions and lets them work even after their formal sessions have been completed,” she adds.
After these 10 sessions, each client is reassessed to ensure that he or she is making progress. You may be wondering why or what can cause the brain to react in cer tain ways, and although there’s usually not just one source, Dr Reese makes sure they look into all avenues. “We believe that the brain and body work together,” she states. “We work with local doctors to refer our patients for things that can mask as brain-based issues. We'll have them checked for toxins, heavy metals, food allergies and hormone imbalance. It's very difficult to try and fix one part of the body while other things are out of balance.”
Just to provide an example of how successful they’ve been with their programs, they began a study on their ADHD- specific clients, aged 6-34 In the group studied, half were taking attention deficit drugs, and half weren’t After 20 sessions, all but one client who had been taking medication for ADHD were completely off their medication
“The group increased their measured attention by 97%, decreased their impulsivity by 94%, eliminated their distractibility and increased their brain functions,” says Dr Reese “We have also conducted similar studies on clients suffering from depression, anxiety and traumatic brain injury with very impressive results ”
Scott E. West, DDS
Offering Alternative Treatment of Snoring, Sleep Apnea and CPAP Intolerance
By Heather Evans
I“We don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach to our patients,” says Dr. West. “For this reason, we have a very high success rate. I also have a very skilled and caring staff We make sure to follow up, get to know you, and we want you to feel welcome when you walk through the door Our patients love the friendly and relaxed environment, and we love working for them!”
Dr West began his career as a general dental practitioner in Mission Viejo, where he worked for over 30 years doing cosmetic, biologic and family dentistry Five years ago, Dr West began a new direction when he decided to limit his practice exclusively to sleep issues While most dentists use only one type of sleep aid appliance, Dr. West is trained on several different sleep aid appliances and is widely recognized as a talented specialist in his field He is also one of only a few Southern California-based Medicare Providers for Sleep Appliances
“I can’t tell you how good it feels to hear a patient tell me they’ve had the best sleep in years, or that they’ve been able to sleep in the same room as their partner again,” he says. “I’ve seen a patient’s entire life change simply because they were able to get a good night’s sleep!”
Dr West offers complimentary consultations, and many of his patients claim they learned more about sleep studies from his free consultations then they did from their Sleep Specialist M D
I bet you didn’t know you could sleep your way to a better life That’s exactly what Scott E West, DDS, helps his patients do Specializing in Snoring, Sleep Apnea and CPAP intolerance, Dr. West has been the premier expert for treating sleep problems with highly customized treatments, designed exclusively on a case-by-case basis. To connect with Dr. West, call (949) 829-6700 or visit www.cannotusecpap.com. Questions about your insurance plan? Not a problem. His staff is ready to find the best options for you.
Bankruptcy is when a court declares that a debt no longer exists or the court is asked to approve a plan to reorganize debts.
Chapter 11 reorganizes a corporation or other business entity
Chapter 13 reorganizes debts for individuals or married couples
Chapter 7 wipes out debts (most bankruptcy cases are filed under Chapter 7)
Major changes ef fective 10/17/05 make it harder to get a discharge under Chapter 7, but an experienced attorney can guide you through the process
If you think you might have a sleeping issue, let Dr West treat you today Better sleep is truly the key to a better life.
Filing Bankruptcy?
Anyone consider ing bankr uptcy should see a qualified attor ney. Most offer a free consultation. While there are people who adver tise themselves as "paralegals" who will fill out the pa per s for a "discount fee," many have tur ned out to be r ip-off ar tists disa ppear ing with their client's money
Romeo Cucina: Laguna Niguel
by Jody Robinson • photography by Kim Roberson
Years ago, when I began my career writing for a regional business/lifestyle magazine, I had the pleasure of serving as the publication’s resident “restaurant reviewer.” This meant that I was able to sample the culinary offerings of dining establishments across the county –from newly opened eateries to longstanding favorites.
At the risk of dating myself, it was nearly 20 years ago that “discovered” Romeo Cucina’s Laguna Beach location (249 Broadway) and since getting married and moving to South County in 2006, I have made it a point to add the eatery to my list whenever I visit the coastal city But the restaurant’s second location is even easier for me to get to Right in the heart of Laguna Niguel (28241 Crown Valley Parkway), Romeo Cucina serves up authentic Italian dishes following old family recipes and new, inventive trends (even though the original location has been open over 20 years, the menu continually changes to reflect the latest culinary trends and tastes as the owners travel to and from their homeland each year)
The original four brothers and two sisters of the Romeo family who started the restaurant –first the Laguna Beach location in 1991 and then the Laguna Niguel restaurant in 1995 - are natives of Calabria, the southernmost province of the Italian boot. Both locations remain a true “family” operation as sisters Ada and Tina Romeo run the Laguna Niguel location while Ada’s husband, Mike, is the chef responsible for the culinary creations.
A basket of aromatic, crusty, house-baked bread arrives within minutes of seating accompanied by the restaurant’s signature "Olive Taponata” is a wonderfully flavorful olive tapenade made from family recipe using assorted Mediterranean olives
The wood-burning oven gives Romeo Cucina’s thin crust pizzas its crispy texture and slightly smoky flavor. As in Italy, there is just enough cheese and tomato sauce to accent the shiitake, oyster and wild mushrooms that make up the “al funghi selvaggi ”
Pasta dishes here are defined by either fresh, house-made (fresca) or dried (ancora) pasta Popular picks include the homemade gnocchi (potato pillows) in a fresh tomato and basil sauce and the Ravioli Al Carciofini which arrives as white artichoke ravioli stuffed with artichokes and ricotta, fresh tomatoes and capers in a garlic, lemon and white wine sauce.
Not to be missed is the "Bianco E Neri,” a black and white homemade pasta with octopus, calamari, shrimp, in a light fresh wine and lemon sauce zest sauce and the "Branzino,” which arrives as baked sea bass roasted in white wine, rosemary, lemon with thinly sliced tomato and potato No matter which dish you choose, you can't go wrong on this menu - every appetizer and entree is made to order.
From (L): Ada Romeo, Chef Michael Waugh and Tina Romeo
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Musicians Perform Tribute to Jazz Superstar Benny Golson at Soka Performing Arts Center
Soka Performing Arts Center presents the second event of the Jazz Monsters series - The Benny Golson Tribute - on Saturday, February 1, 2014 at 3 p m and 8 p m Benny Golson Tribute–Part 1 at 3 p.m.
rammy-nominated singer and pianist KARRIN LLYSON The Houston Press praises, "If here's a choir in heaven, someday the exquiite vocalist Karrin Allyson will lead it She's uch an otherworldly talent that the creator robably already has her on heavy rotation ” oining Allyson will be PETER SPRAGUE, DUNCAN MOORE and HAMILTON PRICE Sprague s a critically acclaimed American jazz guiarist, composer, musical arranger and musical transcriber, sound recording engineer, and p from North San Diego County. Moore is a San Diego based drummer and percussionist Price plays double bass, upright bass, contrabass, string bass, doghouse, bass viol and bass fiddle, and has recently performed with Kenny Werner and Geoffrey Keezer
Following that quar tet will be the KENNY BARRON TRIO with KENNY BARRON, BUSTER WILLIAMS and ROY MCCURDY. Benny Golson Tribute–Part 2 at 8 p.m.
One of jazz’s most valuable sidemen BUSTER WILLIAMS reflects “I’ve served my apprenticeship under many great masters and feel that it's my honor and privilege to carry on the lineage that makes this music such an artistically rich art form.”
BENNIE MAUPIN is a Detroit, Michigan jazz multireedist who performs on various saxophones, flute, and bass clarinet
Closing the performance will be the star of the evening, the multitalented and internationally famous jazz legend, composer, arranger, lyricist, producer and tenor saxophonist of world note, BENNY GOLSON. Benny is the only living jazz artist to have written eight standards for jazz repertoire These jazz standards have found their way into countless recordings internationally over the years and are still being recorded.
Tickets are sold separately for the two parts and can be purchased by calling 949-480-4ART (4278) or online at performingarts.soka.edu. Prices range from $21 for students and seniors (62+) to $28 for all others.
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