South County Magazine February 2020

San Clemente • Dana Point • SJC • Laguna Niguel • Laguna Hills • Rancho Mission Viejo + Ladera Ranch

FEBRUARY 2020

MAGAZINE

Page 12

WE’RE HERE RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

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Life

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Expansive Selection. Uncompromising Quality. Unparalleled Service.

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MAGAZINE

Publisher Community Publications, LLC. Editor Jody Robinson jody@southcountymag.com Account Executives Laura Campbell Kim Reed Nicole Martin Advertising Inquiries (714) 469-3495 Contributing Photography Diana Schmitt, Accent Portraits by Diana

South County Magazine serves the communities of San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Hills, Mission Viejo and Aliso Viejo. We will strive to continually improve with each edition and welcome feedback from our readers. For questions or comments, please e-mail the editor at jody@southcountymag.com

6 February 2020

T PRAILN IVE IS

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ENZO SCOGNAMIGLIO Brio Tuscany Grill Dana Point Advertising Partner since 2012 �Brio Tuscany Grille has been advertising with Community Publications since 2012. We have been consistently participating in every issue and are very pleased with the experience over these many years. Jody and her team truly care about helping our business continue to succeed and often create added-value opportunities - at no additional cost - to help maximize our exposure in the publication.

If you are interested in reaching the Orange County community, I am absolutely thrilled to recommend Jody and her fabulous team!�

For Info on Our Advertising & Complimentary Editorial Opportunities, Call (714) 469-3495

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9. Important to review your Meals and Entertainment expenses in detail. For Federal purposes, Entertainment is no longer deductible (tickets and entertainment events). Business Meals, Travel Meals and Staff Meals for the Benefit of the Employer, are deductible at 50%. For California tax purposes, Entertainment expenses and Meals per above are deductible at 50%.

Therefore, be sure to deduct Entertainment expense on your California return.

10.Taxpayers can change the tax treatment on their IRA contributions as late as the extension deadline for determining if their timely contribution will be treated as PreTax (Traditional), After-Tax (Roth IRA or Non-Deductible IRA). This is important to review prior to finalizing your returns.

TIPS FOR FILING YOUR 2019 INDIVIDUAL & BUSINESS TAX RETURNS

B

ased upon the recent tax law changes, I can’t think of a more important time to have your tax returns prepared professionally by a CPA. It is critical that you remove the guesswork when you prepare your tax returns. I am ready to help you review your unique situation to determine if any of the following tax planning ideas should be implemented.

1. Pay careful attention to the Tax Filing Deadlines: Due Date & (Extension Deadlines). S Corporation and Partnership returns are due on March 15 (Extensions Sept. 16). Individual, Trust and C Corporation returns are due on April 15 (Extensions for Individual & C Corps on Oct. 15 and Trusts on Oct. 1).

2. The IRS is assessing large and multiple penalties to raise revenue. Taxpayers should research relief or obtain CPA help to try to obtain “Penalty Abatements” such as the First Time Abatement and other Administrative Relief (reasonable cause defense).

3. Identity Theft: Starting in 2019, the IRS permits residents of California and certain other states to obtain an Identity Protection PIN upon request. Taxpayers must create an IRS request and request their PIN at www.irs.gov.

4. Taxpayers age 70.5 or older can contribute to charities up to $100,000 directly out of their IRA. This reduces AGI and most likely will lower your tax bill. This is a huge tax savings if you are taking the Standard Deduction and no longer claiming charitable deductions.

5. If you had or will have a large capital gain, consider investing in a “Qualified Opportunity Zone” within 180 days of sale or exchange to defer and partially eliminate the initial capital gain in addition to having the potential of eliminating taxation on appreciation on the new investment property.

6. Depreciation expense rules have been expanded to allow greater deductibility on capital asset purchases including autos and qualified real property. The capability to determine how much you want to depreciate in the current year is a great tax planning opportunity to help the taxpayer fine tune the desired level of taxable income for 2019 and future years.

7. Anyone who receives employer stock options should seek a CPA for tax preparation. The Form 1099-B you receive doesn’t correctly report your cost basis and many taxpayers mistakenly pay tax twice on the gains.

8. California tax laws have little conformity to the new Federal tax laws. Due to the differences in Federal and California law, it is quite possible that you will take the Standard Deduction on your Federal Return and Itemize for your California Return.

Prescott Tax & Wealth Management www.Prescott500.com GO ONLINE OR CALL NOW AT (949) 248-9815, Ext. 1 TO SCHEDULE YOUR TAX APPOINTMENT Securities and advisory services offered through Independent Financial Group, LLC (IFG), a registered broker-dealer and investment advisor.

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8 February 2020

11. The Tax Extender Bill was passed late last December. This bill retroactively renewed many tax breaks that had expired in 2018. You should review your 2018 returns to determine if amendment makes sense to file for a tax refund along with interest income. Key bill provisions (Tax Years 2018-2020): Mortgage Insurance Premiums (PMI) are deductible; Higher Education Tuition can be deducted up to $4,000 above the line; Medical expenses can be deducted after deducting the floor of 7.5% of AGI; Alternative Fuel Credit; Fuel Cell Vehicle Purchase; and NonBusiness Energy Property Credit (up to $500 lifetime) for heat pumps, furnaces, windows, central air conditioners and hot water heaters.

BUSINESSES 1. The most exciting part of the new tax law is Section 199A. Under this section, taxpayers may deduct up to 20% of their domestic “Qualified Business Income (QBI)”. QBI includes income from S corporations, Partnerships, LLCs taxed as S corporations or partnerships, Schedule C businesses, Schedule F farming activities and self-employment income reported as other income. It is extremely important that you classify your business with an accurate Principal Business Code since this will be a determinant if you qualify for QBI deduction at certain income levels.

2. Review S Corp salary levels for reasonable compensation and for planning purposes to maximize the new Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction. This is becoming an important IRS audit review item.

3. S Corporations must pay the health insurance premiums directly or reimburse 2% or greater to shareholders to claim the deduction. Payment must be reported on shareholder’s Form W-2.

4. Do some planning to see if a 401k, SEPIRA or Defined Benefit Plan is the most beneficial plan for saving pre or after tax.

Contributions are due late in 2019 on the extension due date.

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If you are looking for top-rated physicians to keep your family healthy, MemorialCare Medical Group delivers. In addition to providing top-ranked physicians, MemorialCare Medical Group has now opened a brand-new health center in Rancho Mission Viejo.

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Life. Organized.

By Jody Robinson

Classy Closets’ unique, custom solutions for the home and office can instantly double or even triple your storage space.

C

loset organization is something of an oxymoron at my house.

Same goes for my home office.

I actually do know where everything is in the stacks of paper that perpetually reside atop my desk, but good luck having anyone else make rhyme or reason of my filing “system.”

a desire to have your mess aesthetically addressed, Classy Closets will customize your work/life space with made-toorder cabinetry and organization systems for your home office, garage, bedroom, laundry room, pantry, media centers, wallbeds and more.

I’m clearly a candidate for the handiwork of a company like Classy Closets – if it’s a matter of function or simply

Think you can’t afford to bring in the professionals? Classy Closets, which has served all of Orange County and

San Diego since 2003, offers organization options for virtually every budget – from basic white melanine to solid wood cabinetry.

“Nothing we do is cookie cutter,” says Company CFO Gary Pavitt. “Although Classy Closets is a franchise, we’re not governed by the rules that typically dictate processes of typical franchise operations – particularly with regard to the materials and mounting systems we use. What works in terms of style and function at a home in Tucson, for instance, wouldn’t necessarily translate to a house in Huntington Beach. So we have the freedom to customize our work to our client’s specific needs and desires.”

Another differentiator is that Gary and his team manufacture their products right here in Southern California, which affords them the ability to offer their clients a broader range of product options at a level of quality that is “second to none.” And because they are “hands-on” from design consultation to manufacture and installation, Gary and his staff pride themselves on providing unparalleled customer service.

“What’s really fun is having the ability to create the products in-house,” says Gary. “I really enjoy introducing new ways to make things better, bringing in new products and keeping up with the latest trends in the industry. We go out of our way to keep our customers satisfied … that’s what makes it all worthwhile. As in any business, your customers are golden and we’ve been very fortunate that a large percentage of our business is in referrals.”

Repeat customers Marta and Mike Fowler of San Diego say that Classy

14 February 2020

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Closets is a “dream company - one that not only delivers beautiful craftsmanship, but also that elusive quality of excellent service. Every good cliché regarding their work applies.”

“This is our second home that Classy Closets has refined to meet all our storage needs, from closets to garage, from bathroom storage to entertainment center. And they never try to oversell, giving honest recommendations for products, charging fair prices within reach,” says Marta.

“Their creative solutions and impeccable workmanship combine to make functional pieces we love living with. We have only one warning: Classy Closets is addictive, and you will find yourself wanting to spread the good news.”

In a letter to Gary’s business partner Kate Monaghan, Carlsbad-based Interior Designer Karen Wirrig echoes the Fowler’s sentiment and adds that “my new master closet is beautiful and your attention to detail is evident. I also want to commend your installation crew. They were on time, tidy, polite, and did excellent work … I will wholeheartedly recommend your company to all my clients. It has been a pleasure to work with you all.”

Classy Closets PostCard_r1.indd 2 23024 Lake Forest Drive, Suite K Laguna Hills (949) 249-5600 www.classyclosets.com

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GORILLA GRASS & MIRAGE PGA Putting Greens

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By Jody Robinson

O

wning your own home is a huge part of the American dream – but it’s not just owning a home … it’s the pride of ownership that extends to the care you put into the way the property looks – inside and out.

The front lawn is one of the first things about your home that people see, and a tidy, lush-looking lawn not only adds to your home’s curb appeal, but also adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of your neighborhood. But “lush” might be quite a stretch to achieve when conserving water. That is, unless you call GORILLA GRASSTM – providers of the highest quality synthetic lawn grass for both residential and commercial customers.

general, by switching to artificial lawn, the savings in water consumption amount to about 48 gallons per square foot, per year!”

When we spoke with Denis, it was immediately evident that he is extremely proud of his product, but we were equally impressed by personal testimonials of his many happy customers like Mike and Shannon Wells who raved “Denis has done an incredible job with an incredible product. The kids play constantly on the grass, and we will be adding a new family member (a puppy) without any worries. We cannot say enough about how happy we are with the product as well as with Denis and his team.”

Customer Dr. Dante Toriello agrees with the Wells’ assessment and adds that the work was so good, his lawn had become “uniform, maintenance free and beautiful.” His American dream had been fulfilled, and in Dante’s words, thanks to GORILLA GRASSTM, his home had now become “the showplace in the neighborhood.”

For our part, my husband and I were tired of looking at a barren patch of dirt in our backyard and I hesitate to call what was struggling to grow there “grass.” We decided to install a synthetic lawn and called on GORILLA GRASSTM owner Denis Weber and his professional team to try to make the area look better and have it be a more useable space for the kids could play.

Serving Orange County since 1998, Denis has continually grown the company year after year – a testament to the quality of his product and service. GORILLA GRASSTM provides two types of grass: Synthetic Lawngrass and MIRAGE Professional Putting Greens. Synthetic grass can help you cut down significantly on your water usage and judging by the results we achieved, you don’t have to sacrifice beauty for cost-savings.

“Synthetic or artificial lawn grass is so sophisticated today, that is very closely imitates real live grass,” says Denis. “In 16 February 2020

According to Denis, the ways in which GORILLA GRASSTM simulates real grass are numerous: “its weight (double the average at 143oz per square yard), its high density, its extra softness and plushness, its resiliency, its height (up to 2.4”, whereas most lawns are 1 1/2” to 1 3/4”)”, and its special diamond-shaped fibers - which help make GORILLA GRASSTM more resilient and more realistic. GORILLA GRASSTM is just like real grass, only Much Better!!

Connect with DENIS WEBER and GORILLA GRASSTM by calling (949) 370-4988 or visit www.gorillagrassandgreens.com

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oxy coatings can also be removed during this same process. “Despite the fact that Coatings Industry requires concrete to at least be diamond ground before installing a new coating system, many of my competitors will install their coatings right over raw or pressure washed concrete just to save a few bucks - I will never do that” says Paul.

It’s Not Epoxy, It’s SpartaFlex!

F

or nearly 40 years, southern California homeowners have used Epoxy for garage and industrial floor coating projects despite its tendency to yellow, it’s soft and easy to scratch surface and it’s tendency to be permanently damaged by the hot, high performance tires found on most cars in the OC area.

Today OC homeowners don’t have to settle for Epoxy and all of its flaws anymore. SpartaFlex is an advanced, next generation 100% solids polyaspartic floor coating that gives your garage a beautiful finish that is 3x harder than epoxy, resists yellowing while also resisting permanent damage from hot tires. Perhaps best of all, SpartaFlex comes with a much better warranty than Epoxy.

Perkins Custom Coatings has been installing SpartaFlex on OC garage floors for nearly 12 years and has completed over 8,000 floors during that period of time. Its CEO and owner, Paul Frankel is considered by many to be the most knowledgeable contractor in the local market. “Unlike many of our competitors, we strive to do an onsite assessment including a moisture test for every floor coating project we install and instead of using the ‘one size fits all’ approach, we develop a coating solution that we believe will last for decades not just for a few years.”

Perkins uses only the most advanced surface preparation methods available and will either diamond grind or shot blast every floor that he installs. Old, failing, yellowed ep-

Perkins also is known for its professional and unique approach to repairing concrete cracks. “Anyone can slap some crack repair paste to cosmetically fix a crack” says Paul. A year later, when the concrete moves again and damages their brand new floor coating, the devastated homeowner will learn that this damage is not covered by the typical Epoxy warranty. “We are the only company that I know of that uses a ‘structural crack repair’ technique to fix cracks. The process is so effective we can offer our customers a warranty that can cover future damage from cracks!” says Paul.

After the surface prep is completed, a very effective moisture control primer is applied to the concrete. “This is extremely important” says Paul because for many homes built in Socal before 2005, elevated moisture vapor levels in the garage concrete can have a detrimental impact on floor coatings. Paul does a fast and non-destructive moisture test for every one of the pre-2005 homes he visits and develops a unique installation plan for each home. For newer homes, Paul and his crew can use a basic primer that dries a bit faster allowing installation of a garage floor in as little as one day!

The color chips that give the Perkins floor its legendary appearance are sandwiched between this primer and finish coat. Perkins carries the widest selection of colors and sizes in the market and uses a ‘full chip broadcast’, not a partial sprinkling of chips like many of its competitors. “The full chip broadcast gives the floor a consistent appearance and makes the floor much more durable and helps hide dirt better than the partial broadcast finish” says Paul.

Finally, Perkins installs the SpartaFlex polyaspartic finish coat and the finished garage comes to life. “Epoxy & SpartaFlex floor coatings are virtually identical in appearance when they are first installed” says Paul. “However, when you will really begin to appreciate your SpartaFlex floor is a few months down the road when you start to see problems develop with your Epoxy floor. If there was a better material on the market, I would be selling it, but there isn’t and that is why we love selling SpartaFlex.”

For more information or to see for yourself the advantages of SpartaFlex over Epoxy, you can call Perkins Custom Coatings, at 866-330-1DAY (1329) or visit their informative website at www.perkinscustomcoatings.com.

18 February 2020

An Intelligent Home always keeps you in the know.

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A Beautiful Garage Floor Like This...

It’s Not Epoxy — It’s Better. It’s SpartaFlex offers so many advantages over epoxy — why would you consider anything else?

Hate your old, tired, peeling or yellowed Epoxy floor?

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A Division of the Wm. M. PERKINS Company

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Please approve ad or provide changes/corrections within 48 hours of receipt.

If no response is received within 48 hours, this ad will be deemed approved as is. $25 fee applies to minor ad changes. $50 fee applies to changes requested past 48 hour proof and/or art deadline.

48 HOUR AD PROOF RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

A Passion for Healthy Water and Aquatic Education

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The Local DISH® Magazine is not responsible for errors and/or ommissions.

Pool Service PLEASE & Repair CHECK ONE BOX BELOW: Weekly Maintenance Approved as isPool & SpaApproved with minor corrections Green Pool Clean Up

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Design or copy changes will result in additional charges and will only be considered if time permits. The Local DISH® cannot guarantee reproduction quality and color Equipment Repair andand/or Installation exactness. Colors may vary due to file formats, computer monitors printing processes. This ad is the property of The Local Dish® Magazine. Reproduction, copying and/or distribution in any way is strictly prohibited without prior written consent. ©2018 The Local Dish® Magazine. All rights reserved.

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HOME IMPROVEMENT

LAGUNA KOI PONDS

By Jody Robinson

When I was younger, my Mom loved to read me the book “If You Give A Mouse A Cookie.” The plot essentially revolves around an ever-growing list of to-do’s that had to be accomplished, all set into motion by the simple act of giving a mouse a cookie. This tale came back to me recently when I purchased a new television at Best Buy.

W

hat was a simple shopping trip ended up being an adult’s version of that circular tale. If you give a grownup a television, they’ll have to measure their wall. When they measure the wall, they’ll realize they may actually 26 February 2020

have room for a bigger television.

When they buy the bigger television, they’ll find out they have no idea how to mount it to the wall. When they start mounting it to the wall, they’ll see that the power outlets are all in the wrong places. When they realize

the outlets need to be moved, they’ll call an electrician. (This could go on forever.)

Luckily for clients who have been on the receiving end of ReelTime’s patient, intelligent, and personalized

service, the rabbit hole of home automation doesn’t have to swallow you entirely. With the help of their independent certified Control4 dealer, it’s easy to update your home without upending your entire life. After all, the true luxury of an integrated entertainment system is really dependent on its ability to deliver seamless entertainment. By placing every control at your fingertips, the team at ReelTime helps homeowners manage everything from how brightly lit your family room is, to your streaming devices - all with a single remote.

And best yet? You can control your whole home from the comfort of your couch- even seeing who is at the front door, without ever leaving your seat. Simple, clean, and uncluttered.

And on the home entertainment front … when you started planning for your ultimate home theater set-up and sound system, could you find the right media cabinetry for your particular space – cabinetry that wouldn’t catch on fire from the heat of the equipment, or that would simply look good in the room? Did you understand half of what the televisions, receivers and other devices could

do, and did you have anyone to hold your hand to make sure you weren’t overspending for what you wanted?

and send you off to figure it out at home. That’s what they do. And that’s all they do.

Big box retailers, the professed champions of value, are happy to sell you any home theater and sound equipment you think you might like,

If you want the home theater system that you envision, seek the services of Skip Myers and his team of experienced professionals at ReelTime to take you from start to finish for the home theater or sound system of your dreams.

“Usually there is a part of the job that you find you just can’t do by yourself,” says Skip, who has overseen the design and installation of thousands of home theater and sound systems over the course of 40-plus years in the business. “You get your brand new television home, you’re so excited, then you realize you need to move an outlet or none of the cabinets you can find will fit your space.

We’re here to make sure you get the equipment that will give you what you want and the system that will work with that equipment, without leaving you to fend for yourself.”

February 2020 27

“You can buy everything you want to, but if you can’t operate it, what’s the point?” he says. “There’s the television, DVD and Blue-ray; there’s the receiver, there’s Apple TV… it’s all great, but how do you get them to work together? We’re big advocates of the universal remote. Not everyone knows how to get the most out of their systems with one powerful remote – they’re not expensive, but the best ones are computer-based. We’ll set that up for you so you’re getting the most out of your custom system.”

We’re here to make sure you get the equipment that will give you what you want and the system that will work with that equipment, without leaving you to fend for yourself.

It’s easy to assume that personal service is expensive, but a conversation with Skip and the experts at ReelTime is free. Ultimately, in planning your purchases for the right outcome, you’re likely to save money while avoiding chilling setbacks. The only chilling you want to be doing is in front of your fantasy home theater system.

Skip opened the doors at ReelTime in 1983. Today, the technicians and designers that Skip assigns to clients are all ReelTime employees, knowledgeable in all home theater and sound technologies. First, they work closely with you to determine what you’re looking for. Then they custom design every aspect of the project, from wiring to custom-built cabinets, frames, or built-in wall designs. Finally, licensed, in-house contractors install your entertainment system with care and precision.

There are a couple of things that people may not think about when they embark upon the road to their own home entertainment system.

“You need to think about your home theater goals,” says Skip. “You don’t have to do everything at once – you can do it bit by bit – but if you know where you’re going, you’ll save money and when it’s all said and done, you’ll have exactly what you want and what you will actually use. We’re here to help you determine your goals.”

Skip is also an advocate for getting what you’ll use, which is part of the design and planning process.

28 February 2020

Connect with Skip Myers and ReelTime by calling (949) 240-0555, stop by their beautiful new showroom at 26381 Via De Anza in San Juan Capistrano or visit www.reeltimeav.com

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EJO + LADERA RANCH

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Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville

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ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE is the musical comedy featuring both original songs and your most-loved Jimmy Buffett classics, including “Fins,” “Volcano,” “Cheeseburger in Paradise” and many more. USA Today calls it “A little slice of paradise!” and Entertainment Weekly raves, “It will knock your flip-flops off!” So don’t let the party start without you.

Jimmy Buffett’s ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE

Tickets to ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE start at $26 and are available for purchase at SCFTA.org, by calling (714) 556-2787 and at the Box Office at 600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa.

Segerstrom Hall • February 4 – 9, 2020.

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HAPPY HOUR ALL DAY THURSDAY! MARGARITAS & ALL BEERS JOIN US FOR TACO TUESDAYS W/THE BEST PRICES IN TOWN February 2020 37

Community Community Publications Publications Rings Rings in in the the New New Year!

Year!

Photos by Diana Schmitt, Accent Portraits by Diana

M

embers embers of of Sweet Sweet Adelines Adelines International, International, the the award-winaward-winning ning VIXEN VIXEN A A cappella cappella quarquartet performs all over Orange tet performs all over Orange County County and and Los Los Angeles Angeles for for almost almost every every ococcasion.

In January, this group casion. In January, this group of of taltalented ented ladies ladies graced graced our our monthly monthly mixmixer with their beautiful vocal er with their beautiful vocal stylings stylings to to the the delight delight of of all all in in attendance. attendance.

We We here here at at Community Community Publications Publications agree that one agree that one of of the the most most fun fun perks perks of being part of the team is of being part of the team is the the abilability ity to to mix mix and and mingle mingle each each month month with with our our advertising advertising partners partners at at great great venues in South OC! And our venues in South OC! And our recent recent soiree soiree at at the the beautiful beautiful Morena Morena Tile Tile & & Stone showroom in San Juan CapistStone showroom in San Juan Capistrano rano was was no no exception. exception.

Guests Guests noshed noshed on on light light bites bites and and wine exploring the extensive wine - exploring the extensive tile tile and and stone stone options options on on display display as as Owner Owner John Schrab took guests on John Schrab took guests on a a personpersonal al tour tour of of his his expansive expansive facility. facility. From From concept to completion concept to completion (showroom, (showroom, fabrication fabrication and and installation), installation), Morena Morena Tile & Stone boasts Tile & Stone boasts 40+ 40+ years years of of inindustry expertise. dustry expertise.

We We know know we’re we’re lucky lucky to to have have such such great relationships with our great relationships with our amazing amazing advertisers advertisers and and that that getting getting together together is always a celebration is always a celebration each each month! month!

We We feel feel lucky lucky to to do do what what we we love, love, and and hope hope that that you you enjoy enjoy reading reading each each isis38 February 2020

sue sue of of South South County County Magazine Magazine and and Sorbet Sorbet -- a a SoCal Senior Publication as much as SoCal Senior Publication as much as we we enjoy enjoy putting putting them them together! together!

If If you’d you’d like like to to join join in in the the festivities festivities at at an an upcoming mixer, call Jody at (714) 469upcoming mixer, call Jody at (714) 4693495 3495 or or email: email: jody@southcountymag.com. jody@southcountymag.com.

There’s There’s no no charge charge to to attend attend -- just just food, food, drink and an informal opportunity drink and an informal opportunity to to mix mix and and mingle mingle with with other other local local professionals! professionals!

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Live Music Thursday - Sunday

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- amNew York

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hree years ago, Academy Award nominee Chazz Palminteri teamed up with Academy Award® winner Robert De Niro, Tony® Award winner Jerry Zaks and ® Tony Award nominee Sergio Trujillo to create this streetwise musical - based on Palminteri’s true life story.

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The New York Times hails A BRONX TALE as “A Critics’ Pick! The kind of tale that makes you laugh and cry.”

Tickets start at $26 and are available for purchase at SCFTA.org, by calling (714) 556-2787 and at the Box Office at 600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa.

40 February 2020

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February 2020 41

The New After-School Activity:

CODING

By Mark Freedkin, Southern California Regional Director, theCoderSchool

W

e’re all pretty familiar with our favorite apps on the Internet or on our mobile devices - but someone has to write the code that makes them work.

More kids are getting exposure to coding earlier, and that’s the idea behind an exciting new after-school enrichment program from theCoderSchool. We teach young students (ages 7 through 18) how to write computer software -- including video games, mobile apps and websites. theCoderSchool started about five years ago in the Bay Area of Northern California.

thinking skills and problem-solving skills which will transfer into all other academic areas. In fact, many parents report that after a few months of attending theCoderSchool, their kids are demonstrating improvement in their overall academics. They also learn that they have the power to investigate and solve problems on their own, and they develop the self-confidence to help them overcome any obstacles.

Unlike many other after-school coding programs, we maintain an extremely low ratio of only two students with one instructor. This allows us to fully customize a unique curriculum for each and every student, based on their own experience, how they learn, and what they are most interested in learning.

Because each individual is unique, we don’t have a fixed curriculum that we force every student through -- some are visual learners, some are conceptual learners and some like to practice, experiment, explore and digest the knowledge, while others are eager to make as much progress as quickly as possible. This distinctive approach has helped to make theCoderSchool the #1 after-school coding program in Silicon Valley -- it’s where all the software engineers from Apple, Google and Netflix send THEIR kids to learn how to code.

Coding is the basic literacy of technology, and we are surrounded by technology everyday. theCoderSchool can help your kids learn to use that technology with skill to accomplish whatever they are interested in doing.

Here in Orange County, we have locations in Irvine and a newly-opened location in Mission Viejo. We also have other locations in Yorba Linda and Cerritos/La Palma.

You can register for an absolutely FREE 30-minute sample lesson at any of our locations. That will allow you to see our facility, meet our staff, and see if your student likes our teaching methods.

Today, we are part of a nationwide franchise with nearly 50 locations around the country, and we have over 4,000 students attending our schools for one or more hours each week throughout the year.

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42 February 2020

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February 2020 43

Little Italy, San Diego

Piazza della Famiglia

Where Old World Culture, Character, Charm and Community Converge

BY JODY ROBINSON

W

henever I think of San Diego, the “f word” comes to mind.

Not the one you’re thinking of, of course. Fishing. Food. Farmer’s markets. Festivals. Family. Take your pick. One of the most charming and idyllic cities on California’s golden coast, San Diego has so many options for entertainment and delight, it can be hard to choose just one. Luckily, playing roulette with your weekend plans has never been easier. All you have to do is let the needle land on Little Italy.

44 February 2020

Since 1934, folks have gathered in this lively neighborhood - once a quaint fishing village is today rife with breweries, wineries, galleries, lovely hotels and authentic eateries showcasing cuisine from both Northern and Southern Italy such as Nonna (more on that in a minute) and Filippi’s Pizza Grotto. Arguably, the neighborhood’s “crown jewel” is the 10,000-square-foot Europeanstyle Piazza della Famiglia. Located in the “heart” of the Little Italy neighborhood on W. Date Street, the Piazza connects India and Columbia Streets. A beautiful tiled fountain sits

at the east side and tables and chairs with umbrellas line the cobblestone street—inviting the public to take in the San Diego Bay views over lunch, coffee or a gathering with friends and family.

Historical perspective Over the years, our family has found that one of the best ways to truly learn about an area we are visiting is to view its history and offerings through the eyes of a local. For our part, my husband

and I are fairly confident there are few better ways to accomplish that goal - and no better person to guide us - than Anthony Davi.

We met up with this animated tour guide extraordinaire at the historic Amici House and Visitor Center (conviviosociety.org/excursions) and spent the subsequent two hours on a leisurely walking tour - strolling the neighborhood as Anthony shared a bit of history, points of interest, illustrating the experience with anecdotes only a resident could regale. He stopped to shake hands and exchanging pleasantries with a number of business owners along the way in their native tongue - making our tour an even more

Carte Hotel

Haley Hill Photography

market-rate housing and supporting the existing - and warmly welcoming new - immigrant-owned Italian businesses.

“authentic” experience, particularly for the two tween kids we had in tow.

We discovered that as the most venerable, continuously existing neighborhood business district in downtown San Diego, Little Italy was originally the place many immigrant Italian and Portuguese fishing families called home. The canneries that processed their catches dotted the coastline - earning the area the well-deserved moniker of “tuna capital of the Western U.S.” It was a distinction the district enjoyed until the late 1970s when

increasing competition from foreign tuna processors spelled the untimely demise of the beloved community’s chief economic engine. From a financial standpoint, the community stalled out for nearly 30 years until the formation of the Little Italy Association (LIA) of San Diego. The organization is credited with striving - and succeeding in instituting a plan to revitalize the region - thus reversing the community’s fortunes.

The LIA’s goal to preserve its historic charm and character while propelling economic growth involved an array of beautification projects, expansion of public spaces, the development of

Today, Little Italy encompasses nearly 50 square city blocks of thriving eateries, retail operations and flourishing public spaces. The aforementioned Piazza della Famiglia combines residential with wineries, art galleries and is home to a new social dining concept that proved to be the perfect place to while away an early evening with yummy eats, live entertainment and great people watching. The Little Italy Food Hall (littleitalyfoodhall.com) houses six locally-driven food stations and a full bar complete with local beers, wine and craft cocktails. With six diverse food options, each member of our family was able to choose specific menu items we were in the mood for. Our son selected “the Milano Pizza Experience” at Ambrogio15 with a focus on an authentic paperthin Milanese gourmet pizza while February 2020 45

eggplant, mozzarella and topped with a cream sauce. My husband went with his “go to” Italian fave whenever he can find it - the Cavatelli Brasato - which arrived as a dish defined by mouthwatering short rib, English peas, tomatoes, herb reduction and Pecorino.

Sights to see Piazza Basilone is not just a beautiful and peaceful Plaza, but a permanent public place honoring the heroism of Sgt John Basilone and ‘the boys who never came home’ from all the wars of the 20th century.

Swift Boat

our daughter opted for artisan express (think fast-casual) pasta from Semola. Guests can expect dishes like Strozzapreti pasta with sausage and mushrooms, Bigoli (traditional Venetian pasta) and even Zucchini noodles with vegan pesto. Mein St. Asian Kitchen serves up bento boxes (orange chicken, Mongolian beef), Chinese chicken salad and a variety of ramen bowls with choice of toppings. Not Not Tacos “pushes the envelope of the culinary creativity” of TV personality Sam “The Cooking Guy” Zien. The concept here is to break down preconceived notions of “tacos” and provide “fiercelyinnovative” and unexpected items.

Suffice it to say, these are not your typical Mexican-influeced fare … you won’t find carnitas, pollo or carne asada here. Think instead - meatloaf, salmon and even pastrami.

But as they say … “when in Rome” … we were excited to experience authentic Italian comfort food at Nonna (nonnasd.com) where the menu items pay homage to “every grandma and their unwavering passion for family and food.” I don’t know about you, but my grandmother never made meatballs with “Sunday sauce” and shaved 46 February 2020

Mark Albertazzi

parmigiana that were so flavorful and the bruschetta (crostini topped with tomatoes, garlic and olive oil) here are hands-down among the best I’ve ever tried (the only other recipe I have ever raved about was the bruschetta my husband and I ate on our honeymoon in well, Rome).

Our young pizza connoisseurs cleaned their plates of the stone oven pepperoni and Calabrese (pesto, mozzarella, tomatoes) pies while I made equally impressive work of the Pollo Alla Chef - chicken breast layered with prosciutto and

A family-friendly visit to The San Diego Firehouse Museum allows a glimpse into the days of yore - with a display of firefighting memorabilia dating back 100 years - from fire boots and an early firefighting apparatus to La Jolla’s first engine, a horse drawn steamer and a piece of steel from the World Trade Center.

A “must-stop” on our walking tour was Our Lady of the Rosary Church. Consecrated in 1925, this architectural gem was primarily built by an Italian fisherman and Portuguese immigrants - their influence is evidenced by two statues at the front - Christopher Columbus and St. Peter, a fisherman. The small historic structure’s interior displays an array of mesmerizing paintings, mural sand stained glass windows.

Our weekend stay-cation wouldn’t have been complete without

For info or to plan your next stay-cation, visit sandiego.org/littleitaly

spending a little time on the water.

At the floating Maritime Museum San Diego (sdmaritime.org), guests can experience “sail to steam and submarine” featuring one of the finest collections of historic ships in the world - including the fully restored Star of India, the oldest active sailing ship; the 1989 steam ferry Berkeley and a full-sized, fully functional and historically accurate replica of the San Salvador, the flagship for Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo (the first European to set foot on the West Coast of the US in 1542). The highlight of our visit to the museum was a 75-minute Swift Boat tour

not only its chosen color palette in soothing shades of blue, but also in its decor defined by beach-inspired art elements. Replete with luxurious amenities, you’ll discover a world of comfort and care just steps from the bay and within easy walking distance to virtually everything you’ll want to experience from restaurants to the San Diego Bay and bayfront Embarcadero.

club, sea-to-table cuisine at Watercolors (a full-service restaurant offering sustainable, local seafood) and a wine and spirit tasting room highlighting local wineries and distilleries from Southern California and Mexico (and of course offerings from Italy). If that weren’t enough,

Carte Hotel features 246 individualized and modern guest rooms, a fitness spa and athletic

Little Italy Food Hall

Diana Rose Photography

Above Ash is a gorgeous rooftop venue for cocktails with spectacular views of the city skyline and the bay beyond - with numerous fire pits and an enormous LED TV wall for viewing sporting events or outdoor movies.

After staying here, you’ll be looking through a dictionary for more adjectives to describe your stay in this stylish, airy, light-filled 16-story accommodation. Once fantastic, fulfilling, and flawless have been used, of course.

Gentler

(officially Patrol Craft Fast or PCFs, referred to as the Swift Boat by the men who served on them patrolling the coasts of Vietnam during the war) for a unique, one-of-a-kind behindthe-scenes adventure.

Accommodation of distinction If you need a mid-afternoon siesta, or simply a place to relax between sun-soaked activities, stay in the heart of Little Italy at San Diego’s chic new Carte Hotel (a Curio Collection by Hilton property). An ode to its locale, the ambiance calls on the coastal environs to influence February 2020 47

World-famous Waterfront Attraction:

SeaWorld San Diego

J

ust down the way, one of the area’s most famous attractions provides a taste for everyone’s palate: family friendly fun with some of the coolest critters around. SeaWorld (seaworld. com). Rides, shows, eats, drinks, characters and more await at one of the country’s most famous theme parks. For the older kids, there are thrilling rides inspired by the force and power of the sea like the Tidal Twister, the world’s first dueling, horizontal infinity loop coaster with high-energy twists, electrifying loops and inversions and the Electric Eel coaster, with equally insane inversions, energetic twists, and incredible loops.

48 February 2020

Got the little ones in tow? Elmo’s Flying Fish, Oscar’s Rocking Eel and Abby’s Sea Star Spin in the Sesame Street Bay of Play is the place to be. From the gondola to the rafts on the river, SeaWorld has something for every age.

For guests who want to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most amazing seafaring creatures, SeaWorld offers educational and entertaining animal experiences and tours. Enter the chilly Arctic waters to interact with white beluga whales, venture behind the scenes for a face-to-beak encounter with a penguin, take a trainer-led poolside trek

to touch and feed bottlenose dolphins or have a face-to-face connection with majestic killer whales. In all encounters, behaviorists share personal stories and unique facts about the animals.

While you’re in town, catch Clyde + Seymour spoof your favorite TV show, or learn more with your little environmentalist about the award winning rescue team through Sea Rescue, available in the Mission Bay Theatre. Killer whales to dolphins, beluga whales and penguins, every animal has a special place in the blue waters of the most playful park around.

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Now Obsolete: Your Old Medicare Number

By Stephanie Frisch

I’m finding that many people are still unaware of the changes that were made to their Medicare ID’s.

I

f you are not 100% sure that you have your new Medicare identification card, I’d advise you to check to see that you’re carrying the correct card immediately. This paper, red, white and blue Medicare card has an eleven-digit number in this format: xxxx-xxx-xxxx on the front of it. It doesn’t show your gender and it also has no line for your signature.

Why is it important to make sure your carrying the newer card? Your old Medicare number is obsolete.

Providers of services can’t use that number to bill Medicare any longer. (it was either you or your spouse’s social security number with one to two letters following) In addition to that, if you use Medicare as your primary insurance and then rely on a Medicare supplement to help pay for what Medicare doesn’t pay, then your Medicare supplement insurance won’t pay your bills either. Your Medicare supplement only pays second when Medicare pays first. As of January 1st, 2020, Medicare won’t pay your bills if your using your old Medicare card. More than likely, the provider of your medical services won’t accept it either because they’ve been made aware of this change as well.

If you’re on a Medicare Advantage plan, such as an HMO, and you don’t use your Original Medicare card when you get medical care, it’s still very important to make sure you have your new Medicare card safely filed away.

If you wanted to change to a new health plan during the Annual Enrollment period in the Fall, the health 52 February 2020

plan can not process your application with your old Medicare number.

It’s all very important to be on top of this because it’s not like you can just get your new Medicare card the next day. It’s a process, and you’re now asking the Federal government to “hurry up” and get your new Medicare card to you? Good luck with that. It’s about a 4-week turnaround at best. You can find out your new Medicare number and order a replacement by logging in to your Social Security account. Don’t have one? Then setting one up is the next step, but that can be tricky. Some of the security questions date back 10 years or so and I’ve had many

clients get locked out of their accounts for answering incorrectly. If you get locked-out, you must wait 24 hours to try again. Or, you can call 1-800-Medicare and “patiently” wait to speak to someone to reorder your new Medicare card that way.

For those of you with older parents, it’s important that you make sure they’re carrying the right card. They may say they never received one, but everyone in the US did, the deadline was mid-year 2019 to get them mailed out. Your parents may have filed it and forgotten where, destroyed it thinking it was a scam, or accidentally recycled or lost it. Double check with them.

Stephanie Frisch is the owner of Insurance 101 and is an independent insurance broker dedicated to helping others make “educated decisions” about their insurance choices when it comes to Medicare. For answers to your questions, or no-fee consultation, call (949) 351-2443.

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Now Obsolete: Your Old Medicare Number

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’m finding that many people are still unaware of the changes that were made to their Medicare ID’s.

If you are not 100% sure that you have your new Medicare identification card, I’d advise you to check to see that you’re carrying the correct card immediately. This paper, red, white and blue Medicare card has an eleven-digit number. It doesn’t show your gender and it also has no line for your signature.

As of January 1st, 2020, Medicare won’t pay your bills if your using your old Medicare card. More than likely, the provider of your medical services won’t accept it either because they’ve been made aware of this change as well.

It’s all very important to be on top of this because it’s not like you can just get your new Medicare card the next day. It’s a process, and about a 4-week turnaround at best. You can find out your new Medicare number and order a replacement by logging in to your Social Security account. Don’t have one?

Then setting one up is the next step, but that can be tricky.

Some of the security questions date back 10 years or so and I’ve had many clients get lock out of their accounts for answering incorrectly. If you get locked-out, you must wait 24 hours to try again. Or, you can call 1-800-Medicare and wait to speak to someone to reorder your new Medicare card that way.

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Acti-Kare with Lori Renaud, R.N. Quality, In-Home Care & Specialists in Serving People Living with Parkinson’s Disease

By Jody Robinson Cover photography by Wendy Christine Photography

There are a number of frustrating things about a disease which presents itself differently in each of its patients. The first, quite obviously, is that the disease is present at all.

N

ext, perhaps, is that each conversation is marked by a tangle of personal history: for each individual has a background that informs how the disease will inhabit their lives and attempt to inhibit their futures. Lori Renaud, R.N., is no stranger to these frustrations, par58 February 2020

ticularly when it comes to Parkinson’s Disease.

With symptoms like muscle rigidity, tremors, and changes in speech, for people suffering from Parkinson’s, it can be easy to feel as though easy living has come to an end. But Lori

and her team at Acti-Kare refuse to give up. April 2020 will be Parkinson’s Awareness Month, engaging the global Parkinson’s community to raise the antenna on a disease which impacts an estimated 7 to 10 million worldwide. Local events, social media pushes, walking and running events

all hope to foster understanding and encourage those who are affected by the disease to share their stories.

Providing oversight, check-ins, inhome care, and exercise programs tailored to her clients’ individual needs, Lori incorporates “a healthy well balanced diet, a safe at-home environment, companionship, and the chance to maintain and improve socialization.” Most afflictions impacting the elderly force them behind the doors of their homes: and what were once cherished creature comforts become cramped, confined spaces. Lori’s team of professional caregivers are there to swing open the doors once more.

An industry leader in providing highly qualified, compassionate, and trustworthy caregivers, Acti-Kare is dedicated to in-home care, and Lori Renaud, R.N., is at the helm in South Orange County, steering her team towards excellence. Especially when it comes to senior care. Acti-Kare offers affordable in-home care - both hourly and live-in services - including transportation, meal preparation, personal care services, companionship from professionals who are screened, bonded and insured.

“I began Acti-Kare in April of 2015.

Working in healthcare provided me with the opportunity to recognize the value and benefit of high-quality in-home care,” says Lori. “Too many seniors only have a life of existence, leading to isolation and depression.”

Indeed, for those struggling with even minor memory or recovery issues, like a friend’s mother after she broke her hip, life becomes smaller and smaller.

Until the house you raised your children in can start to feel more like a trap than a triumph.

Caregiving through memory loss, Alzheimer’s - offering both long-term care and hospice, Acti-Kare is committed to providing outstanding service. “Our caregivers go to the

The knowledge that your loved ones are in careful hands is priceless, and the understanding that those hands are leading your loved ones to a safer, more independent lifestyle in their advanced years is immeasurable. client’s residence, and we are daily achieving my goal of providing seniors the opportunity to have a life with meaning, and a more active, social, and independent lifestyle in a safe environment,” says Lori.

As a Registered Nurse, Lori takes each initial consultation herself, developing an individualized plan of care for every client, and checking back in regularly to provide personalized health assessments. The Acti-Vate Program takes customized care one step further, challenging the norm of an age-induced fatigue, and balancing mind, body and spirit to improve the wellbeing of clients holistically.

The knowledge that your loved ones are in careful hands is priceless, and the understanding that those hands are leading your loved ones to a safer, more independent lifestyle in their advanced years is immeasurable.

“I can now sleep at night, knowing my mother is safe,” says Mary, a client from Laguna Beach. “Not only does my mother now have a constant companion, her laundry is taken care of, mail sorted - but if she wants to go out and run errands or meet a friend, her transportation is arranged.” Clients can still do their own grocery shopping; but if they’d rather not bother with the task of preparing and cleaning up afterwards, or perhaps are dealing with a restricted diet, “Acti-Kare caregivers can prepare

meals that maintain a healthy diet, as well as monitor their daily nutritional needs to insure sufficient nutrition.”

Unfortunately, a great many seniors fail to meet those demands, leading to frustration, and often, a heightened risk of illness.

“I educate the public on disease management and prevention,” says Lori.

“But sometimes it takes the presence of a competent, compassionate caregiver to ensure that corners aren’t being cut on health in some of the most important years of your life.”

Treating every client as if they were a family member of their own, Lori’s team is confident that their suite of senior care solutions will surpass your expectations for care - without committing to a long-term contract or minimum hour block of service.

A unique disease calls for a unique approach, and Lori’s team at ActiKare certainly aren’t strangers to the challenges that lie before them. Lori’s main frustration isn’t the tremors that come with Parkinson’s, or the lack of awareness surrounding diseases like it, but the cost to living facing people diagnosed with debilitating disease.

“I want to keep people living independently: but mostly, just to keep people truly alive.”

Lori Renaud, R.N. Acti-Kare (949) 397-6069 www.actikare.com/southorangecounty February 2020 59

Loaded Inheritance: Safe Gun Storage, Ownership and Disposal with California Gun Services

By Ann Laurence

M

y grandparents owned a beautiful three bedroom casita in Solana Beach. Just up the road from the train station, their home was built in the twenties, and renovated completely when I was in high school.

When my grandfather passed away, I moved in with my grandma, doing chores around the house for her and helping to maintain the garden. One day, I was looking for my grandfather’s whetstone, to sharpen an old pair of shears, and I stumbled across his Colt Python 357 Magnum. I had to look it up - I thought it might be a relic from one of the movies he worked on in the 50’s, but according to my grandma, it was just “one of those things your grandpa just insisted on having.”

Jeff McCabe has gotten more of his fair share of calls from people like myself, who accidentally come across family firearms in their home and don’t have the first idea of what to do with them. The owner of California Gun Services, Jeff is in the business of safe gun storage, ownership and disposal. The first step? Following California gun laws. I had zero clue that by driving the Colt to the Army Navy to try and turn it in I’d be breaking a couple laws. According to Jeff there are laws restricting gifting or selling a gun, receiving a gun, borrowing a gun, transporting a gun, even storing guns. New laws come out every year, and it is almost impossible for anyone, even aficionados to keep up with them. Jeff and his team work closely with local law enforcement to ensure the process is easy and safe.

60 February 2020

My grandma hadn’t touched the revolver in years, though my grandfather had made sure she shot it at some canned tomatoes on a desert trip when they were younger. “I’m afraid the grandkids might find it,” she told me that day. “I’d feel safer without it.” A sentiment shared by Jeff’s friends, family and fellow church parishioners - many of whom have sought his assistance over the years to ensure the proper storage or disposal of firearms they found themselves in possession of upon the passing of a loved one.

HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE

What initially started as a favor for a friend has grown into a bonafide side business as word has spread about Jeff’s particular skill set and confidence in handling firearms. As the owner of the Orange-based One Way Painting, Jeff often encountered situations whereby he would come across a firearm when moving furniture around for a client prior to starting a painting project. “Many times, the firearm belonged to my client’s father, grandfather or late husband and she never touched it because she was afraid of guns, but didn’t know how to get rid of it safely. So many times these guns are loaded and just stuck in a nightstand or stored under the bed.”

Raised in a family that had firearms for hunting and sporting, Jeff was taught early on how to handle, be respectful and always be safe when handling firearms. I believe that we as Americans have a great privilege to be able to own a firearm, but with that comes an even greater responsi-

bility to not only protect ourselves legally by complying with Federal and State laws, but to protect ourselves, our neighbors and most importantly, our children from all possible dangers associated with firearms.”

San Clemente resident Rhonda Murphy couldn’t agree more. “There are many things to deal with when a loved one dies. In 2010, when cleaning out my husband’s closet, I came across several of his guns. I didn’t want to keep them and was unsure of what to do with them. My daughters didn’t want the guns and I didn’t want to deal with the hassle of storing them as my grandkids are often at my house.

A friend suggested I should call Jeff. He was very nice, easy to talk with, trustworthy and knowledgable. He came to my house, checked all the guns to make sure they were unloaded and removed them. Jeff also told me that one of the guns was a collector’s item and was able to sell it for me.

One less thing to have to worry about. I can’t recommend Jeff enough.”

As part of their auditing procedures, California Gun Services gives clients the option of a Voluntary Registration Form (in the case where the weapon was inherited). Many of Jeff’s clients are like my grandma who just prefers that the gun is destroyed. Jeff holds a Federal Firearm License and as such, is able to take possession of firearms without a Gun Transfer. He can also inspect firearms to ensure they are still in working order, and even tell you if the gun, or guns, you have are California Compliant.

“Most people are unaware that firearms that were purchased legally from a gun shop just a year ago may now be illegal in California,” says Jeff. “If we find a firearm that is out of compliance with the law, you’ll receive solid advice on how to make it compliant, sell it out of state, or potentially dispose of it. Our process is approved and certified by local law enforcement, it’s legal, safe and adheres to all state and federal firearms laws.

“Since firearms last more than a lifetime, families often have small and large collections of guns in their home.

Knowing what you have and what to do with those firearms is important. Whether it’s from a death in the family, inheritance, or just a need for clearing out some that you know you will never use, we can help. Following California gun laws is essential. We come to you. It’s a safe, easy and professional process.”

California Gun Services’ processes are approved and certified by local law enforcement and adheres to all state and federal firearms laws for the following services:

GUN AUDIT

Jeff will come to you and inspect your firearms to make sure they are in proper working order and that they are California Compliant. If your firearm is not compliant with the California Law, you will receive solid advice on how to make it compliant or possibly dispose or sell it out of state.

GUN DISPOSAL

If a firearm is found to be unsafe to use, cannot be repaired and has no historical value. California Gun Services will permanently destroy it by torching the receiver or frame into three parts or cutting it with a saw into five parts. Jeff will document this with photos and log it for the Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and email you the proof of destruction.

GUN TRANSFERS

Private Party Transfers happen between two individuals and will need to take place at a Federal Firearm Licensed Dealer. Since this needs to be done at a Gun Shop, Jeff cannot offer this as an in-home service. If you have inherited or legally obtain a firearm, he can provide you with a Voluntary Registration form or you can download it from the California Department of Justice which is NOT required to do at a gun shop. California Gun Services has a Federal Firearm License and can legally come to you and take possession of a firearm without a Gun Transfer.

GUN PURCHASES OF UNWANTED FIREARMS OR COLLECTIONS

California Gun Services will come to you and appraise a single gun or an entire collection of any size. You will receive an explanation of how guns are legally sold and transferred. California Gun Services can then make you a fair market value offer and/or explain how a gun can be put up for sale on consignment.

AMMUNITION AUDIT To connect with Jeff directly, call (714) 639-9608 or for more information, visit CaliforniaGunServices.com.

California Gun Services will make sure you are using the right ammunition for the firearms that you have and that it is legal in the State of California. Jeff will inspect the ammunition to make sure that it has been stored correctly, is in good condition and will ensure that the ammunition is being stored properly, using the right type of container and stored in the right location in your home.

February 2020 61

OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa MARCH 18 – APRIL 19, 2020

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irque du Soleil returns to Orange County with VOLTA, a captivating voyage of discovery! Inspired in part by the adventurous spirit that fuels the culture of street sports, VOLTA explores the themes of celebrating differences and unique qualities in a world where technology often isolates people from one another rather than freeing them.

Written and directed by Bastien Alexandre, with Jean Guibert as the director of creation, VOLTA weaves acrobatics in a visually striking world driven by a stirring melodic score, composed by Anthony Gonzalez from the international electronic group M83. VOLTA will perform under the Big Top at the OC Fair and Event Center in Costa Mesa March 18-April 19, 2020.

The San Francisco Chronicle gave VOLTA its highest rating: ”A supercharged VOLTA soars!” The San Francisco Examiner said, “Truly mindblowing … it’s worth the price of admission.” Chris Jones in the Chica62 February 2020

go Tribune wrote, “VOLTA is thrilling because of the acts. Period. They’re all totally fabulous.”

Catey Sullivan in the Chicago Sun Times said, “VOLTA is one of the best Cirque shows in their repertoire.

A visually arresting extravaganza … a vivid reminder of the world’s impossible beauty.”

is about being true to oneself, fulfilling one’s true potential, and recognizing one’s own power to make it possible.

Ultimate freedom comes with self-acceptance, and with the liberation of the judgement of others.

THE SHOW

The name VOLTA refers to a sudden about-face, a change in emotion or idea often used in poetry. It also speaks to the jolt of energy delivered through the show.

Energetic, urban and contemporary, VOLTA is a captivating voyage of discovery that showcases never-before-seen under the Big Top acrobatics in a visually striking world. Driven by a stirring melodic score and inspired in part by the adventurous spirit that fuels the culture of street sports, VOLTA is a story of transformation. It

Tickets are now on sale by visiting cirquedusoleil.com/volta or calling 1-877-9CIRQUE (1-877-924-7783). Discover our Hennessy Black VIP Experience package, which includes a cocktail reception with open bar and hors d’oeuvres inspired by the show, access to the best seats for greater comfort, complimentary parking and more!

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