We can tell when the new issue of South County Magazine arrives in mailboxes because our phones ring off the hook and we are slammed with new business. We have been extremely pleased with the response!
DONNA SCHUSTER
South Coast Shutter and Shades • Advertising Partner since 2020
I was apprehensive about advertising during the pandemic, not knowing whether it would generate response. Since starting with South County Magazine in April 2020, we have been incredibly busy keeping up with the resulting calls, scheduled appointments and new clients! I believe being consistent in advertising is key. Thank you Jody for your loyalty and helping our business take off again!
STEPHANIE FRISCH
Insurance Services 101 • Advertising Partner since 2011
The best business decision I ever made was to advertise in South County Magazine - I’m proud to say that I have been participating since the very first issue. I have gained several hundred clients over the last decade due to my ad, and several hundred more from the referrals of my ad clients. I have a steady flow of business all year long, and South County Magazine has a lot to do with that.
The Mental Health Consequences of COVID-19
By Sarit Hovav, M.D., FAPA President and Board Certified Psychiatrist, Lifetime Insight, LLC
The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting quarantine orders have had an unprecedented amplification of mental health consequences, and these consequences will likely become the most urgent public health challenge worldwide for decades to come.
Stay-at-home and global lock-down orders have resulted in social isolation, loneliness, lack of activity, increase in binge-watching TV (associated with mood and sleep disturbances, fatigue, impaired self-regulation and overeating), increased access to alcohol, more online gambling, panic-buying, phobic anxiety (fear of illness, fear of negative economic effects), more calls to helplines with worsening anxiety, and decreased family and social support. Social media exposure was associated with increased odds of anxiety and combined depression and anxiety. Loss of jobs and income resulted in unemployment and financial insecurity which have affected access to health care, including mental health care. It’s no wonder that every study published to date has shown increases in self-reported symptoms of anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma/stress-related symptoms, and most unfortunate, suicidal ideation.
Doubtful that there is a human being in this world who hasn’t felt the mental effects of the pandemic in one way or another, even if there wasn’t enough of a downturn to seek help from a physician or other health care clinician. An increase in alcohol sales and alcohol use in the home has been recorded, which could potentially have increased alcohol use disorder and have affected the domestic violence rates. Women who were previously victims of do-
mestic violence have suffered more than they have in the past. In the US, individual states have reported increases in domestic violence cases ranging from 21-35%. Women had reduced options for escape and less social support during quarantine orders. In the UK, deaths from domestic violence more than doubled with the average rate in the previous 10 years.
Interestingly, in the initial stages of the pandemic quarantine, many states across the US reported double digit decreases in reports to child abuse hotlines. To understand this, we need to remember that in the US, 20% of reports to abuse/neglect centers are made by educational personnel. With distance-learning in place, our prime reporters are no longer serving as the children’s main advocates. We have a situation with a potential abuse and neglect crisis with no voice for the children.
And while we may not be completely surprised about the effect of the pandemic on global mental health, the discussion of the risk of COVID in those with pre-existing mental health conditions has been scantily discussed. Metabolic syndrome is a combination of high cholesterol, high blood sugar, obesity/excess abdominal fat, and high blood pressure. With the exception of the effect on weight, there are typically no symptoms associated with these conditions.
This cluster of conditions together create a syndrome that increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. However, it is now also considered to be a composite predictor of COVID-19 lethal outcome, increasing the odds of mortality by the combined effects of its individual components. This is important because those with pre-existing mental health conditions have higher rates of metabolic syndrome. Data on the interplay between metabolic syndrome and mental health conditions is plentiful, going back decades. This is a concern even in the age of vaccines, as there is data to suggest that vaccines are less effective in those with obesity or metabolic syndrome.
While this all seems quite disheartening, a favorable component brought about in the pandemic is telehealth. While there were physicians providing this type of care pre-pandemic, it was typically uncommon and almost never covered by commercial insurance. Nearly all insurance carriers cover telehealth and therefore many more physicians, including psychiatrists like myself, have switched their practice model to telehealth. We have found that telepsychiatry is comparable to face-to-face services in terms of reliability of treatment outcome and has shown to deliver high patient satisfaction. It is preferred for patients with anxiety disorders and now, even with lock-down orders beginning to soften, is much more preferred by those patients who have difficult or long work hours, or feel uncomfortable visiting a psychiatric practice in person. If you’re still not getting the help you need, reach out and make an appointment.
Call (844) 547-7924 or visit www.lifetimeinsight.com
spring 2021 in
Founder of Lifetime Insight, Sarit Hovav, MD is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She graduated from medical school with honors, completed Internal Medicine internship at Beth Israel Medical Center, and then went on to complete a postdoctoral fellowship in Brain Stimulation and Neuroimaging in Mental Illness at UCLA’s prestigious Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior where she participated in a variety of clinical trials and published in leading peer-reviewed medical journals. She then completed a Psychiatry residency at the combined program of Creighton University/University of Nebraska Medical Center. Out of residency training she was immediately hired as a Medical Director for Behavioral Medicine and then opened her own practice in Omaha which was highly successful, treating a variety of conditions in a variety of patient populations, including many of her own colleagues, becoming known as the “doctor to doctors”. Dr. Hovav is now practicing in Orange County via telehealth, where she can continue to provide her expertise to patients all over CA as well as her other states of licensure. Visit lifetimeinsight.com for more information on Dr. Hovav and getting an appointment.
At Serra Sol, we’re compassionate memory care experts who bring a touch of warmth into everything we do. From caring staff who know your loved one’s favorite activities to comfortable routines that spark positive memories, we’re here to make sure your loved one truly thrives in our care.
Learn more about the Serra Sol way of life. Call 949-485-2022 or visit SerraSol.com
Hammer & Nails Grooming for Guys
By Jody Robinson
There has long been an unfortunate stigma attached to men getting manicures or pedicures. The “salon” is for women. Seemingly, all dudes need is a quick buzz cut or a close shave.
Of course, proper pampering isn’t gendered. And surprise, you aren’t any less of a ‘real man’ if you don’t constantly have sawdust or motor oil under your fingernails.
Mike & Beverly Shepherd, Owners of the first Hammer & Nails Franchise in Orange County, premier full-service grooming shop for men couldn’t agree more. But of course, that doesn’t mean your next MANicure has to be in a petunia-scented, white-walled, home-shopping net-
work-watching salon. No. What Mike is offering is ... quite bit more.
“We’ve built a man cave, and it has everything you’d expect," he says. "Each client gets their own TV and remote, top-of-the line noise cancelling headphones, a complimentary beverage (of the frosty kind).” Lounge away 45 or 90 minutes in an overstuffed leather chair or a buttery soft all-black classic barber throne while the staff at Hammer gets your haircut, shave, MANicure or Pedicure on point.
Open since November 2018, Mike’s team offers straight-razor shaves, facial waxing, and even quick beard or neck trimming for those in-between times. Upping the service ante even further right now during Covid-19, the crew are prepared for anything, practicing elevated cleaning and sanitizing routines to ensure every patron’s safety.
“We’re 100% focused on you. That’s why we’re here.” He and his wife Beverly first came across the concept of Hammer & Nails on Shark Tank, TV’s
hit entrepreneurial reality show. “We wanted to start something that we could both be passionate about that would allow us to work together,” so the pair purchased three franchise licenses for Orange County and the dream was born. “Now, be it during a pandemic or not, your most difficult decision when you come hang out with us is what cable program to watch or which premium beverage to enjoy.”
POPULAR SERVICES INCLUDE: HAIR & SHAVE
PREMIUM CUT
Our ultimate cutting experience
This cut includes extra time for complex styles and finishing details. You’ll be pampered with our straight razor outlines, warm foam, and aftershave massage. Following a shampoo, conditioning scalp massage, and a lavenderinfused hot towel, you will love the way you look and fee
PREMIUM FACE/HEAD SHAVE
A rejuvenating skin treatment and shave
An epic combination of cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration is delivered with warm foam and a straight razor for your face or head. Our charcoal mask, facial massage, and essential oil-infused towels will put you in a trance.
PREMIUM BEARD GROOMING
A revitalizing shaping and facial massage
We’ll revive your beard with a rich oil massage, reconstruct its shape with crisp razor lines, and make your skin say “ahhh”. This exfoliating cleanse uses a charcoal mask to draw out impurities and ends with a hydrating lavender facial massage.
HAND & FOOT CARE
THE BIG DADDY EXPERIENCE
Refresh & relax with our most popular hand & foot experience
This clarifying lemon and peppermint-infused Premium Manicure and Pedicure combination includes a warm soak, callus resurfacing, sugar scrub, massage, nail care (clip, file, nip, and buff), warm paraffin, and our hot towel wrap.
HOPS AND CEDAR EXPERIENCE
Beer-lover’s bliss
This Premium Manicure and Pedicure combination will have you walking on clouds. This service includes stout beer and cedarwood oil-infused soak, callus resurfacing, sugar scrub, massage, nail care (clip, file, nip, and buff), warm paraffin, and our hot towel wrap.
“Hammer
& Nails is a haven for men who are looking to combine the absolute necessity of a haircut or beard trim with what Mike calls ‘man-cave nirvana’”
Relax without all the astringent smell you find at a normal salon, and add in instead the natural musk of Macallen®, cedar, leather, and steel. An incredibly cool custom ‘57-Chevy lighted door panel greets every client, and the warm reception beyond makes even one’s very first grooming experience a welcome one. Hammer & Nails is a haven for men who are looking to combine the absolute necessity of a haircut or beard trim with what Mike calls “man-cave nirvana”; all at a surprisingly low cost for such a luxury experience.
“Best one word description for Hammer & Nails would be.... EXPERIENCE,” says client Angelo T. of Aliso Viejo. “From my wife’s gift card purchase experience to the check-out experience with Mike where I signed up for the monthly grooming club membership, and everything in between were world class. Upon arrival, I was greeted and escorted to the man cave by Bev while waiting for
my head shave, Van did my head shave and it was a relaxing experience and I was impressed by Vans’ attention to detail, then I opted for the Milk & Honey Experience which is a signature manicure and pedicure. I thoroughly enjoyed this treatment along with my Jack/Diet. Thank you Hammer and Nails and I can’t wait to come back!”
Another happy client John C. from San Clemente adds “I have finally found a place to get my haircut and also provide other services, the staff at Hammer and Nails consistently provides top-notch service. LuLu in particular, has been very consistent and listens to exactly what I want. The atmo-
sphere is very comfortable, you’re offered a multitude of beverages while watching TVs if you wish. I look forward to my next visit - thanks again Mike and crew!”
Mike & Beverly Shepherd
I can’t help you if you don’t call - my services are free! Your lnsuranceEducation.com lnsuranceEducation@att.net CA License #OF18674
Are You Going on Medicare in 2021?
It’s not just a flip of the switch, and many times I get calls from soon-to-be Medicare beneficiaries that are agitated. “How is someone supposed to figure this out on their own?” is a common statement.
That’s why there are people like me to help people like them. (For Free!)
I’m surprised how many people think that when they are doing that initial step of getting their Medicare active that they will need to pick their private insurance option at the same time. That is not the case, that’s where I come in. For my clients there is approximately a one-hour appointment to review options, discuss their personal needs, answer questions, and more.
If you’re going to be Going on Medicare in 2021 I would suggest getting in touch with me and I can give you a timeline to follow so that we can make this process as smooth as possible for you.
CBD or Cannabodiol derived from the hemp plant has been shown to reduce inflammation, intercept pain signals to the brain, boost serotonin levels, dampen the fight-or-flight response and help regulate sleep.
A Healthy Body Starts with a Healthy Mouth at La Paz Dentistry
By Jody Robinson
Alifetime of healthy smiles starts with a dental team that you can trust. A necessity made more enjoyable by utilizing the services of seasoned professionals like Drs. Dean Tanaka and Andrew Yang of La Paz Dentistry in Laguna Hills. Along with the support of an amazing team, they pride themselves on offering the highest quality clinical expertise through personalized service in a warm, compassionate atmosphere.
The core philosophy of the office is simple- patient care. Originally founded by Dr. Richard Wodiske over 35 years ago, the vision and goals will always remain the same.
“Our number one priority is patient care and what sets us apart is treating each individual and building relationships of trust with all of our patients,” says Dr. Tanaka. A graduate from the University of California, Los Angeles, Dental School, Dr. Tanaka has used his hours of continuing education and service to grow and develop a dream team at La Paz.
The importance of a healthy mouth cannot be overstated as there continues to be more and more studies showing the correlation between oral health and overall health.
“A healthy body starts with a healthy mouth and what happens in your mouth does not stay in your mouth,” says Dr. Yang. In fact, a disease-free mouth can drastically improve the quality of an individual’s health, and Dr. Yang sees it as his lifelong mission to educate patients on this connection.
At the heart of La Paz Dentistry, is an amazing hygiene team that excels in providing gentle, yet thorough preventive and periodontal maintenance for patients of all ages. It is simply not “just a cleaning” as the hygien-
ists are all skilled, highly trained clinicians that are constantly learning the newest technology to ensure the best oral health for all. The office has recently incorporated the use of specialized dental lasers to eliminate bacteria around and under the gums.
“We take pride in getting patient’s mouths healthy and we really feel that laser-assisted cleanings are and will be the standard of care moving forward,” says Tritia Rodriguez, RDH.
When the Doctors were designing their new office, they had nothing but technology and comfort in mind for their patients and team. Digital x-rays, intraoral cameras, a digital scanner for teeth impressions, a 3-D Cone Beam CT machine for imaging, and 3-D digital printers for tooth models and appliances are all a part of the state-of-the-art equipment that is utilized every day at La Paz. One of the newest additions to the technology has been the incorporation of the Solea Dental Laser. This incredible device allows the Doctors to perform fillings and minor restorative work on teeth with no numbing, no shots, and minimal use of the dental drill in most cases. Patients have been amazed at how comfortable the experience is and are thrilled with eliminating the numbing feeling for hours after their procedure.
Both Drs. Tanaka and Yang pride themselves on providing the absolute best dental care in several aspects of the field such as restorative and cosmetic dentistry, endodontic
treatment, oral surgery, dental implant placement and restoration, Invisalign clear aligner therapy, full dentures and partials, and even full mouth reconstruction.
ANDREW YANG, DMD
“Continuing education is paramount in the dental field, one that is constantly evolving and changing, and our training is our number one responsibility to give us all the tools to provide excellent patient care.”
Building trust with those you care for takes time and delivering results for those who trust in your work is the end goal.
“What really sets us apart is the pride we take with each interaction with our patients,” says Dr. Tanaka. “Treating each individual and forming long lasting relationships are the most important part of our day.” In a place where there is often a stigma attached, La Paz Dentistry goes out of their way to make everyone feel comfortable.
“We have an incredible team of educators, friendly faces, and cheerleaders for your oral health, not just dentists or hygienists,” Dr. Yang says. “We’re a family and we are here to ensure that you understand what compassionate dental care feels like.” The entire La Paz Dentistry team welcomes you to come see the difference they can make on your health and your smile!
(949) 855-9525
Se Habla Español
142-144 Avenida Del Mar San Clemente, Ca 92672 (949) 366-0561
@melroseintheoc melroseintheoc.com
By Jody Robinson
I have tried to stop using the word literally over the past few years, especially in contexts when I may simply be using it to exaggerate or emphasize a strong feeling I have about something.
Ifound myself throwing it in excess of a few times per day, and was having trouble finding circumstances when the subject matter actually lined up with the phrase in its true grammatical sense. That being said, you might find it difficult to believe me when I say I’ve literally found the most comfortable lounge wear on the market, due to my self-proclaimed penchant for naming my strong feelings a bit too, well, strongly. But all you have to do is a quick Google search for PJ Harlow, and you’ll understand where I’m coming from.
The US-based brand has recently found favor in such publications as Fast Company and NY Mag due to their exceptionally comfortable, sensationally soft, washer-friendly/dryer safe lounge pants, nightgowns, pillowcases, and more. If 2020 brought us nothing else, it was the sense that loungewear’s emerging as a bedroom (and everywhere else in the house) staple can no longer be overlooked. Designed for women by a woman,
the collection is based in California, and invites you to “take a minute, relax, and feel fabulous.”
Showcasing gorgeous colors, knits, and silky soft satin, the fabrics work together to create what PJ founder, designer, and owner Tina McMillen calls “body harmony.” Promising the ultimate experience in soft dressing, the pieces can be taken from the bedroom to your morning Zoom call in no time. The entire collection flatters every silhouette, and pampers you as you put it on. Be it a spa day or just an extra few minutes before jumping in the shower, every time you put on your matching set you'll feel more relaxed, more comfortable, and more in your own body than you've ever been before. And now, with curbside pickup available at PJ Harlow’s retail location in San Clemente, you’re that much closer to comfort. Literally.
| PJHarlow.com
PJ Harlow
Owner Tina McMillen and her daughter Shelby
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Fleming, MD, Board-Certified Dermatologist
FLEMING DERMATOLOGY & AESTHETIC CENTER 23141 Moulton Parkway, Suite 110, Laguna Hills | (949) 916-5956
How Can I Tell If I Have Skin Cancer?
There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Because each has many different appearances, it is important to know the early warning signs.
Look especially for change of any kind. Do not ignore a suspicious spot simply because it does not hurt. Skin cancers may be painless, but dangerous all the same. If you notice one or more of the warning signs, see a board-certified dermatologist right away, preferably one who specializes in diseases of the skin.
ACTINIC KERATOSIS
An actinic keratosis (AK) is a crusty, scaly growth caused by damage from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. An AK is considered a precancer because if left alone, it could develop into a skin cancer. AKs are the product of a lifetime accumulation of UV damage and typically appear on areas most commonly exposed sun, such as the backs of the hands, forearms, face, neck, and scalp.
SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells arising in the epidermis, the skin’s outermost layer. SCCs often look like scaly red patches, crusty bumps, warts, or elevated growths with a central depression. SCCs may appear suddenly and some forms are tender to touch. They can become disfiguring and sometimes deadly if allowed to grow. More than 1 million cases of SCC are diagnosed each year in the U.S., which translates to about 115 cases diagnosed every hour. Incidence has increased by 200 percent in the past three decades in the U.S., and more than 15,000 Americans die each year from this type of skin cancer.
BASAL CELL CARCINOMA
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most frequently occurring form of all cancers, with more than 4 million cases of diagnosed in the U.S. each year. BCCs may look like open sores, red patches, pink growths, shiny bumps, or scars. Any skin lesion that doesn’t heal, or bleeds with even gentle trauma, such as drying with a towel, is concerning for a BCC.
MELANOMA
Melanoma is a very dangerous form of skin cancer. Melanoma is caused mainly by intense, occasional UV exposure (frequently leading to sunburn), especially in those who are genetically predisposed to the disease. An estimated 178,560 cases of melanoma are diagnosed in the U.S. each year and is fatal for an estimated 9,320 of these patients. Fortunately, if melanoma is recognized and treated early, it is almost always curable.
WHAT PATIENTS NEED TO KNOW
1. Everyone needs to perform a self-skin exam once a month.
2. Melanoma can appear anywhere on the skin, including the palms/soles, under your nails, and places...for most, have never seen the light of day (genitalia). For this reason, it is important to look everywhere. Lock the bathroom door, get out a hand mirror, and check, it could save your life.
3. What to look for: ABCDEs, and an ugly duckling
A - Asymmetry: If I draw a line down the middle, do the sides match?
B - Border: Is there a nice crisp border, or does the mole melt into the surrounding skin?
C - Color: Moles should be one color, one shade of brown. Is there a variety of shades or additional colors, such as black, red, white, or blue?
D - Diameter: Any mole larger than 6mm, ie the head of a pencil eraser, has a higher risk of becoming melanoma.
E - Evolution: Has it changed?
F - The Ugly Duckling Sign: Most people have a “signature mole,” their own personal mole appearance and architecture. Is there a mole that seems different from all the others?
4. Everyone needs a full body skin exam by a board-certified dermatologist once a year, more frequently if you have a family history of skin cancer, a personal history of skin cancer, or live in an area with substantial sunshine.
Prescott Tax & Wealth Management
Peter Prescott formed Prescott Tax & Wealth Management (PTWM) over 20 years ago to focus on the needs of individual and small business owners who want and deserve a more comprehensive approach to their financial affairs that are typically provided by separate CPA, Financial Planning and Insurance advisors. Peter was one of the first CPAs nationally to offer a combined CPA and Financial Planning approach.
Peter astutely observes that most individuals go to separate financial advisors who are trying to maximize the business for their own specific service without regard to the impact of the other areas of required planning and the budgetary trade-offs needed for ultimate financial success.
Peter is proud of his training and background including a CPA, Masters in Taxation, Advanced Financial Planning designations, Accredited Investment Fiduciary designation, Registered Securities Principal, B.S. in business from U.C. Berkeley, Insurance Agent and Price Waterhouse alumni. However, Peter is prouder to be able to implement all of these skills sets when assessing client’s unique financial situations. Few advisors or firms have the training and experience to deliver such a comprehensive approach. PTWM can complete what is needed from planning conception through implementation.
This approach provides the most client satisfaction and positive feedback to PTWM. “We are often told by clients that our comprehensive approach implementing strategic tax planning is the missing element not found from other advisors. The challenge today is that clients have too much information coming at them daily. They need an experienced professional can that stay current with all new tax laws and interpret what is important and relevant to their situation. Our comprehensive financial approach can’t be replaced by software, hardware or websites. One of the greatest added value returns we offer our clients are tax savings which can sometimes be higher than actual investment returns” states Peter.
Most clients first come to PTWM as a CPA Tax Client or for a Comprehensive Financial Review. Both approaches allow PTWM to find tax savings and efficiencies which are often the greatest source of financial returns. More importantly, Peter states that this process allows PTWM to learn about each individual’s personal life goals that normally don’t come to life when just looking at the numbers. Unlike most CPAs, Peter is an extroverted people person that wants a personal relationship. This philosophy is the backbone of how PTWM works with each client.
The core tenants of this philosophy are to help each individual maximize their return on life through the various life stages.
1. Organization: We will help bring order to your financial life.
2. Accountability: We will help you follow through on your financial commitments.
3. Objectivity: We bring insight from the outside to help you avoid emotionally driven decisions in important tax and money matters.
4. Proactivity: We work with you to anticipate your life transitions and to be financially prepared for them. Time spent in preparation avoids time spent in reparation.
5. Education: We will explore what specific knowledge will be needed to succeed in your situation.
6. Partnership: We attempt to help you achieve the best life possible but will work in concert with you, not just for you, to make this possible.
To schedule a consultation or to connect with Peter directly, call (949) 248-9815 or email Peter@Prescott500.com
48 HOUR AD PROOF
Sunshine over South Coast Window Tinting
By Jody Robinson
On average, California gets 284 days of sunshine per year. To an outsider, that might mean endless days on the beach. (To be clear, it could mean that exact thing.) For Jeremy Griffin, founder of South Coast Window Tinting, sunshine was the perfect niche product on the market.
What one might not consider when it comes to 284 days of sunshine a year, however, are the overall costs that run up because of the persistent solar radiation. A Southern California native, Jeremy grew up in Redondo Beach, and was exposed early to the tinting industry, getting his start in commercial window film with Blue Sky Window Tinting. During his tenure there, he learned how to manage large projects, and eventually let his experience and the persistent call of opportunity lead him to calling to Oahu, Hawaii home for a decade. There, he crafted Aloha Glass Tinting, providing excellence for his customers on the island, and reaping the benefits out surfing big waves.
Building relationships with property managers, building engineers, small business owners, and now individuals with tinting needs has been Jeremy’s work life for the last 20+ years. But he’ll be the first to say that his
appreciation for quality, timely work wouldn’t exist without a healthy understanding of the sunshine that delivers demand for his products. As such, playing hard outdoors comes just as naturally for the crew of South Coast Window Tinting, and informs each decision made inside to reduce energy costs, ensure your heat or A/C runs less frequently, and shrink your carbon footprint.
Established in San Clemente, tinting has brought Jeremy and his family back to the California coast, where they look forward to building a reputation atop the core values of honesty, integrity, excellence and quality: from pricing to product.
“We used South Coast Window Tinting to tint some windows in our house,” says Ryan H. on Yelp. “Jeremy was a true pro from the start. The measurements, estimates and installation were all very quick and easy. Very fair
price and excellent service. Would highly recommend and definitely use again.”
As the exclusive Orange County 3M authorized window tinging installer, Jeremy and his team cover all residential, commercial and automotive projects. Protect your skin from harmful UV rays, your shop front from graffiti, and boost your optical clarity on the road. Operating with values at the center of the business is no easy feat, but South Coast Window Tinting will only recommend a solution that is specific to their client’s problem at the best possible price
Owner Jeremy Griffin
• Our Japanese koi are hand picked during our annual trips to Japan.
• 35,000 gallons of display ponds with koi fish in all price ranges.
• All koi are quarantined, tested and treated properly before being released for sale.
• Open 7 days a week
• 1,500 sq. ft. water garden area where you can choose from water lilies, bog plans, floaters and other aquatic plants.
• We maintain over 200 koi fish ponds in OC!
• Our service fleet provides monthly maintenance and pond filtration upgrades.
Laguna Niguel Promenade is excited to announce the opening of Keller Williams Realty-Laguna Niguel! Whether you’re buying your first home or selling to upsize or downsize, Keller Williams Realty knows it’s a BIG decision. When you choose to work with Keller Williams, you’ll get agents who use the best tools and technology to buy or sell your property. Plus, you’ll get transparency & instant communication throughout the entire process. You can relax knowing every detail is taken care of!
Keller Williams Realty Laguna Niguel is located at 27941 La Paz Road, Suite #C, right next to Avila’s El Ranchito. Whether you’re buying or selling, or if you just have a question, stop by or give them a call!
The shops & restaurants at Laguna Niguel Promenade are following Orange County guidelines regarding Covid-19 health recommendations for your safety and the safety of their staff. Call or check online for individual stores updated hours and safety policies. Thank you for your support!
The Proof is in the Paint with ONE WAY PAINTING
By Jody Robinson
Photography of Jeff McCabe by Lana Farfan, Caught in the Moment Photography
Ralph Waldo Emerson famously said “who you are speaks so loudly I cannot hear what you’re saying.” Keeping this quote in mind has served me well over the years, particularly in choosing friends … and when seeking out the services of professionals. In my opinion, integrity isn’t a word heard often enough in the business world. Competitive, certainly.
But unfortunately phrases like “bottom-line oriented,” “unscrupulous,” even “cutthroat” have cropped up in the vernacular when hearing home improvement gone wrong stories from fellow homeowners. That’s why it was so refreshing to come across Jeff McCabe and his Orange County-based One Way Painting.
In business since 1976, Jeff and his team serve all of the OC and specialize in interior and exterior residential and commercial painting. They swear by the rules of professionalism: “no cutting corners. No cheap materials. We pay attention to every detail, and never call a job complete until the customer is completely satisfied.”
Some might call it good Christian values. Others might say it’s simply good
business. But for the last 42 years, working from the heart has earned One Way Painting such a respected reputation in the industry that the vast majority of their work comes through repeat customers or referrals from repeat customers. The company’s success isn’t merely rooted in customer service though. Boasting a superior knowledge of avail able product on the market and hiring the most profes sional crews in the business also goes a long way.
“Our reputation speaks for itself; but if it didn’t, we have 16 satis fied employees on our perma nent payroll who would put a hand
up in defense of the standards we set,” says Jeff. Standards which were born and bred through a commitment to ethical business practices and hard work. In 2001, Jeff teamed up with seasoned professional Ron Bartz as a journeyman, then took over the company when Ron retired, and has been growing it ever since.
In 2009, Jeff took the pair of three-man crews and expanded the operation to encompass six crews, two office staff, and a project manager who oversees jobs, right alongside the man with the plan himself.
“We currently have four trucks on the road and I’d like a full fleet someday. I’d like to leave a legacy for my daughters, and that means more than just cans of paint and a warehouse full of equipment and materials.” To Jeff, it means taking care of his employees, taking care of his family: taking care of business. The hope is that One Way Painting becomes a household
name, for its quality of work and quality of values.
My husband and I can happily attest to both. When we moved into our home in San Juan Capistrano five years ago, we acquired quotes for exterior painting from several contractors, but were particularly impressed with Jeff and his crew. Prior to starting work at our home, Jeff came by in person to go over what the job would entail and answered all of our questions. His team showed up right on
time the first day - and each subsequent day - and at the end of each day everything was cleaned up before they left.
“We pride ourselves on working with a team of long-term employees - we do not hire off the street,” says Jeff. “We guarantee our work and do not require payment till the job is completed and the customer is completely pleased with our work.”
Jeff and his crew delivered on these promises and more than exceeded our expectations - the result was outstanding work, a job completed on time and on budget and defined by unparalleled customer service (Kelly in his office was hyper-responsive to our inquiries during the estimating process and followed up immediately upon completion of the job to ensure that we were satisfied with the results and our overall experience of working with One Way Painting). We were so pleased with the work that when we decided to update our kitchen by painting our cabinets and adding hardware (the job is scheduled to start two weeks from the date of this writing so look for a future testimonial feature), we were confident that One Way Painting would be the one and only call we would need to make.
Their attention to detail is found from start to finish. For exterior projects, they begin by power washing to clean and remove any loose paint, mildew or mold. Then the patching: with stucco, trenching around the foundations and priming with an acrylic. They’ll treat your wood siding, eaves, fascia, windows. Main doors, garage doors, trim. Even wrought iron, or other specialty surfaces like patio covers and fences. Most work depends on the client’s preference: semi-gloss, hi-gloss enamel, acrylic, or oil finish. Inside walls see flat, matte, eggshell, satin, semi, or hi-gloss. If you have natural wood cabinets and they need refinishing, One Way’s crew will see to it that they look new again. Also licensed and bonded as commercial painters, Jeff’s crew has been making businesses and their buildings look new again for 42 years. With a free on-site estimate, your custom needs are sure to have a custom solution. No deposits required, and “no surprises along the way,” Jeff is quick to add.
“I think at the end of the day what sets us apart is taking our time with each and every customer that comes our way,” says Jeff. “We run a business like every person we interact with is family.” They may not be the cheapest out there, but then that wouldn’t fly in Emerson’s eyes, and not in Jeff’s either. “Our business is based on the Christian ethic of treating every customer with honesty and integrity. Every job is done ‘as unto the Lord.’ Does this mean we’re perfect? No. It does mean that we strive to do the best painting job possible.”
Connect with Jeff, Kelly and the One Way Painting team by calling (866) 986-9781, visit onewaypainting.com or YELP for reviews.
are committed to providing the highest quality clinical care and personalized service in a warm and compassionate atmosphere. Our doctor and staff enjoy getting to know each patient and their families, and love creating relationships that last multiple generations.
Morena Tile & Stone Your Local Resource from Concept to Completion
Morena Tile and Stone, in San Juan Capistrano, is a 5000 square foot store showcasing one of the largest selections of tile, and natural and engineered stone in South Orange County. The business was opened in 2014 by John Schrab and his wife, Linda, with the goal of
their clients, while helping to bring their projects to life. From mild to wild and traditional to modern, they will assist in finding the perfect materials for your dream kitchen or bath. Morena’s designers are on hand to assist customers with navigating through the myriad of choices to get their project started and they serve as a resource every step of the way – from concept to completion
creating a convenient, local resource where one can find an abundance of fun, imaginative and up-to-date tile and stone – all under one roof.
As a family-owned business, John and Linda focus on customer service and building relationships with
Homeowners, designers and contractors love the vast product selection and convenience of shopping locally, in a store where everyone knows your name. John, a 4th Generation tile and stone contractor, is willing and available to answer your questions and provide advice on materials, design, and installation. He believes in treating cus¬tomers like family and understands what it takes to make your project come to fruition.
Whether you’re undertaking a major home renovation, updating your
kitchen island or installing a tile floor, Morena Tile & Stone offers all of the necessary components to manage your project in-house. Along with a gorgeous variety of materials for you to choose from, there’s also an onsite fabrication shop with a crew of master craftsmen that have worked for John for decades. This level of experience and cutting-edge technology, combined with old-world craftsmanship, provides clients with the reassurance that their project will be done correctly and beautifully. As John likes to say, “We make things pretty every day.”
Morena Tile & S tone:
“As a family owned business, we focus on customer service and getting to know our clients while we help bring their projects to life. From mild to wild, traditional to modern we’ll help you find the perfect tile and stone for your dream kitchen or bath.”
Visit Morena Tile & Stone when you’re ready to embark on your next home improvement project. John and Linda would love the opportunity to offer you a cup of coffee while you look around, and they’d be proud to add you to their long list of satisfied customers.
Mr. John Schrab, a fourth-generation stone fabrication and tile contractor took over Morena Tile five years ago and fulfilled his dream of owning his own tile store. Since then, Morena Tile has become a trusted resource for local contractors, designers and homeowners supplying natural stone, porcelain tile and engineered stone to projects both big and small in scope. Offering an abundant 5000/sf showroom with over fifty top manufacturers to choose from and a top-notch staff, Morena tile has reached the pinnacle amongst the ubiquitous onslaught of “big box design” options.
“Treating our customers like family is the first step. We invite all our customers to our showroom to look around and meet our staff, discuss their project or join us for a little lunch and conversation around our kitchen island. We’re here to help.” Says John.
Morena tile’s showroom proudly displays one of the largest selections of tile, natural and engineered stone in South Orange County. Morena Tile’s designers are on hand to help customers navigate the myriad of choices to get their project started - and serve as a resource every step of the way from concept to completion.
Whether your Kitchen, Bathroom, Flooring , Fireplace or BBQ project calls for granite, marble, travertine, limestone or Natural Quartzite, you can find it all at Morena Tile & Stone.
4 generations of tile
The Morena Tile team’s penchant for imagination and fun extends to its marketing - variations of this playful feline has become synonymous with the company’s moniker in South OC.
To connect with John and the p call (949) 489-8990, visit ww 5000+-square-foot showroom at 32951 Calle Perfecto in San Juan Capistrano
The future craftsman pictured here with father, grandfather and great grandfather
Owners John and Linda Schrab
Little Johnny with his pop, granddaddy and great gramps,
guys.
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.
What 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
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?
Big box retailers, the professed champions of value, are happy to sell you any home theater and sound equipment you think you might like,
and send you off to figure it out at home. That’s what they do. And that’s all they do.
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.”
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.
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.
“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.”
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.
Award-Winning CBD for Pain Relief, Skin Conditioning and Sexual Pleasure
“Our need will be the real creator,” Plato famously wrote in his Socratic dialogue, Republic. In layman’s terms? Necessity is the mother of invention. Crystal Rae, Certified Clinical Herbalist and Co-owner of FEED CBD: living proof. A long-time sufferer of eczema, she began experimenting with homemade tinctures and balms early on. Finding her way into cannabis culture wasn’t a far reach, as the herb has well-known healing properties, like many other medicinal plants. Now, as a self-proclaimed “huge advocate” of skin-based education, Crystal combines medicinal herbs for maximum synergy and potency.
After suffering from the side effects of cortisone creams and prednisone, Crystal took to infusing herbs and cannabis into olive oil and apply-
ing it to her skin. With great results. Transferring her success into crafting custom formula massage creams and other skin care products for her clients from plants she grew and harvested herself, Crystal found herself on the path to becoming a Certified Clinical Herbalist. A couple winning turns in the Emerald’s Cup Topical category later, she and a business partner began Feed CBD.
“Your skin is incredibly important to total body health,” she says. “What goes on, goes in.” Since your skin clocks in at the largest organ in the human body, Crystal will be the first to tell you that your hair and body products should bolster your endocannabinoid system. “That’s why we call our brand FeedCBD: our products feed your skin.”
Using only culinary grade ingredients, Feed’s core philosophy leads them to crafting safe, sustainable, organic, non-toxic creams that “cause no harm to people or the planet. We use old-world alchemy methods, and unrefined, organic plant oils to harness the healing power of medicinal herbs. Transforming CBD hemp flowers into 4 different extracts is no small feat, but it is our pleasure to combine them into healing remedies for your body and soul.”
For pain, for your skin, or for your sexual pleasure, Feed’s products stimulate blood flow, soothe pain, take care of swelling, help to repair damaged skin, heal cracks, rashes, and even cold sores. Immortelle, Tumescence, Vitality, Radiance, Euphoria. Feed calls it like it is: and more, like it should be.
Getting the Best from Your Child with Special Needs
by Anthony Cupo
Parents want what is best for their children. This is as true for parents of special needs children as it is for others.
Part of wanting what’s best for your children is also wanting the best from them. You want them to behave appropriately in public and around family. You want them to express their emotions effectively and do their best in school.
How do you go about getting the best from your child with special needs? Here are 7 tips and techniques to guide you.
1. UNDERSTAND “THE BEST” IS A CHANGING EXPECTATION
We all have an expectation of what our children should ultimately achieve. Maybe you want them to be able to verbalize their anger, rather than acting out. Or perhaps you want them to use an “indoor voice” in public, rather than yelling. It’s important to understand that children may not immediately meet those goals — but that doesn’t mean they aren’t doing their best at the time.
A child’s “best” is an ever-moving target. Today, their best may be to yell a little less loudly when they become irritated. A few months from now, their best may be to proclaim “I’m angry” rather than yelling. Shift your expectations and define “the best” as your child’s best effort right now.
2. BE CONSISTENT, EVEN WHEN FRUSTRATED
Reinforcing your child’s good behavior with kind reassurance is an excellent pathway to success. Reacting negatively to poor behaviors is far less effective and may even deter your child from displaying better behaviors. When parents get frustrated,
they sometimes slip into a negative reinforcement mode, which ruins consistency and can negatively impact the child’s progress.
It is completely normal and natural to become frustrated as a parent. What you need to avoid is letting that frustration impact the way you deal with your child’s behaviors and emotions. If you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed, take a step back, take a few deep breaths, and regroup before addressing your child. Make sure you’re taking time out to care for yourself. This can help to preemptively reduce frustration.
3. GET A CLEAR DIAGNOSIS
Some parents are afraid to move forward with the diagnostic process because they do not want their child to be labeled or categorized. However, getting a clear diagnosis for your special needs child can make it so much easier to encourage them and help them grow.
Once you understand your child’s diagnosis, you can research tactics and techniques that specifically work well for children with that diagnosis. For instance, for children diagnosed with ADD, strategies, like limiting distractions, regulating sleep patterns, and promoting waiting time, can help them develop and be their best. If you did not know your child’s diagnosis, you may not think to implement these effective and proven strategies.
The process of getting a diagnosis can be long and a bit frustrating. You may need to see several doctors and specialists. Your child may need to undergo a variety of tests. However, it
is worth persevering and getting that “official” diagnosis. It will open you up to more specific, effective strategies.
4. TRUST THE PROFESSIONALS
As the parent of a special needs child, you are ultimately the one who makes decisions about treatment and care. But it is wise to trust the professionals. Therapists, pediatricians, and educators who have spent years in school and have experience working with special needs children can offer remarkable guidance. Trust these professionals. Remember they really do take your needs (and your child’s needs) to heart.
5. STRATEGIZE WITH OTHER ADULTS IN YOUR CHILD’S LIFE
Does your child have another parent? Maybe an aunt or uncle who babysits, or perhaps an older cousin. Hold regular “meetings” with these influential adults in your child’s life.
During these meetings, update them on your child’s progress, the latest tips and techniques you have learned from your therapist, and anything else important in your child’s life and development. Keeping all the adults on the same page will allow them to more effectively encourage and support your child. The more support your child has from loving adults, the greater success they will experience.
6. CELEBRATE SUCCESSES ALONG THE WAY
Remember: Each step forward is an achievement. Celebrate these small steps, even if there is still quite a distance to go to meet your child’s goal.
Some celebrations can be small. Serve a favorite dessert the night after your child finally bring home a report card with positive comments. Follow-up with ice cream after behaving quietly and with consideration in a store. Let family and friends participate in these celebrations, too. This shows your pride and others’ support.
7. MAKE A LIST OF CARE PRIORITIES AND STICK TO THEM
You won’t perfectly adhere to every best practice and technique every day. For example, maybe you know sugar is not great, considering your child’s diagnosis, but occasionally allow a cookie. You know a good night’s sleep helps your child feel calmer the next day, but sometimes things get away from you and your child is up ’til midnight.
Progress…not perfection. Stick to routines and care practices more often than not. One way to keep practices a priority is to make a list. Start by using red ink to list the tactics you absolutely must employ each day. This can include medication delivery and avoiding sugary foods.
Then, in orange, list the tactics that are a little less vital, but still important. Follow those with blue tactics that are nice to employ, but not really essential.
Each day work your way down your list. Make sure you check off each red tactic and as many orange tactics as possible. Challenge yourself to check off the blue tactics more often, too. This strategy helps ensure that “oops” moments with your child occur less frequently, and this will help them make continual progress toward their goals.
As you employ these 7 tips and tactics, remember that each small step forward is a success. We want our children to achieve their best five or ten years from now. But we also want them to do their best every day. When you’re giving your best, it becomes a very realistic goal.
Anthony Cupo is a trained mindfulness facilitator (TMF) from the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. He is a co-owner of Stepping Forward Counseling Center, LLC and has been meditating for over 30 years.
Therapeutic Social Skills Programs with Doc Joc’s Sports, drama therapy, art therapy, and other fun activities that call for a range of “natural” social skills, so as to encourage clients from the ages of 0-21 to achieve goals, conquer fears, build confidence and self-esteem while having fun. With a 3-1 ratio, our team is led by Ph.D., LCSWs, clinical & teaching professionals as well as other higher educated licensed professionals.
offers Partial Care, IOP, Family/Parent Counseling, and Day Camps
Our camp is designed to accomplish goals in fun environments where clients/campers have the most fun! Evidence-Based Treatment, the Data Proves it Works!
CLIENTS/CAMPERS IMPROVE IN THE AREAS OF: Self-Esteem, Social Behaviors, Rule Following, Friendship Skills, Emotional Intelligence, Home Behaviors, Anger Control, Problem-Solving, and Academic Competence. Achieve goals, conquer fears, build confidence and self-esteem, and develop an enthusiasm for life while learning social-emotional skills that will last a lifetime.
Why Kids Should Go to Summer Camp
“There is always that one summer that changes you.” – Beth Merlin
Summer will soon be upon us! Like many parents, you may be wondering if this time off from school should be spent on family vacations, planned activities at home, or summer camp. While family time spent together is extremely valuable, summer camp also offers many benefits that kids don’t necessarily get at school. The summer camp experience gives kids the opportunity to improve their “soft skills” and hard skills, meet and befriend new peers, and develop new interests. If you’re on the fence about sending your child to summer camp, here are a few things you need to know.
KIDS BREAK OUT OF THEIR SCHOOL LABELS
Kids tend to get branded with labels in school: nerdy, athletic, popular, loud and funny, quiet and shy. By going to camp with different peers, your child has a chance to break out of their supposed categorization. They might feel less pressure to conform to their school label. And they’ll remember that who they are at school isn’t necessarily who they have to be all the time. It’s refreshing.
KIDS CAN EXPLORE EXISTING INTERESTS AND DEVELOP NEW ONES
One of the best things about summer camps is that there are so many of them that offer unique activities. Most camps offer traditional outdoors activities like recreational swimming and camping skills. Other programs include adventure camps or programs, college planning, health and wellness, and more. If your child is interested in STEM/STEAM hobbies like coding or robotics, going to a camp that specializes in these activities allows them to pursue their interests in a new setting. They’ll also encounter new ones at camp that they may not have considered before, like horseback riding or rock climbing.
SUMMER CAMP CAN HELP PREVENT SUMMER LEARNING LOSS
Summer learning loss, “summer brain drain,” or “the summer slide” is real: many students lose two to three months of reading and math skills during summer break. There are a few ways to prevent summer learning loss, and one of them is attending summer camp. Summer camp pulls double duty, not only keeping kids mentally stimulated, but physically active as well. There’s a myth that campers attending STEM/STEAM camps or tech camps stay indoors and on a computer all day, but that’s an old stereotype. A good summer camp will provide kids with a well-balanced variety of activities, both mental and physical.
CAMP TEACHES SKILLS LIKE INDEPENDENCE AND RESPONSIBILITY
Kids encounter the ultimate test of independence when going to camp: being away from their parents. They make small decisions for themselves: what to eat, what activities to do in their free time, who to talk to if they have a question or problem, and so on. These new experiences can be hard, but they’re ultimately worth it because of the boost in self-esteem and confidence.
In addition, camp can teach kids many other essential life skills: teamwork from working on projects, respect, and openness when meeting new peers, and resilience from navigating something new on their own.
KIDS CAN MAKE LIFELONG FRIENDS WITH OTHER CAMPERS
In a study by the American Camp Association, an overwhelming number of campers said positive things about their camp experiences with other kids. A whopping 96% of campers said camp helped them make new friends, and 93% said camp helped them get to know kids who were different from themselves. Kids can bond over living together at resident camps or participating in the same hobbies at day camps. Kids who go to the same school may become friends out of proximity, but kids who become friends at camp have deeper connections rooted in similar interests.
EXPLORE STRATFORD’S SUMMER CAMPS
Sending your child to summer camp clearly benefits them, and it benefits parents, too. Giving kids time away from their home, family, and belongings can help them appreciate what they have when they return. In addition, spending time away from each other can be revitalizing for both kids and parents. If you’re looking for a STEAM summer camp that offers an enriching experience, take a look at Summer@Stratford. Stratford School’s summer camps tailor activities to each age group, providing campers with hands-on learning projects and real-world problems to tackle in a fun way.
OC Revive
RENEWING THE LIVES OF STRUGGLING TEENS + GIVING HOPE TO THEIR FAMILIES
By Jody Robinson
Being a teenager is hard. There isn’t really another way to say it. Having some distance from those years and looking back, I realize now just how harrowing it can be.
My friend’s younger brother struggled with underage drinking and drug use, both coping mechanisms for his ongoing depression. She shared the struggles he and their family underwent as he battled his addictions.
For Derek Walsh, co-founder and COO of OC Revive, that struggle is all too familiar. Throughout high school and college, he struggled with peer pressure, learning challenges and substance abuse. On October 15, 2012, Derek overcame his own substance abuse problem and dedicated himself to helping others work through their own addiction - starting his career in recovery the following year. Over the course of the ensuing decade, Derek worked his way through numerous roles at top rated treatment centers and began to see a
pattern that those struggling individuals would have benefited immensely from receiving help earlier in life.
Determined to be a part of the solution in finding a way to address those issues at an earlier age with interventions before adulthood, Derek and Tyler Michaelis decided to start OC Revive - to make sure teens get the help they need to find a purpose that leads them to a life of happiness and success. Tyler, whose story mirrors that of Derek's in many ways, shares the same passion and purpose - dedicating their life's work to helping teens and their families.
OC Revive started because a team of like-minded professionals wanted to bring change and hope to their community. Offering services that are rarely found in the area, OC Revive
(OCR) will be celebrating its second anniversary this spring. Derek, Tyler and their team of psychologists, family therapists, addictions counselors, tutors and direct care staff are proud of what they have built, focusing on the younger population.
“We’re not a large corporation, so we can relate personally to clients.” With primary mental health and secondary substance abuse services, their licensed clinical staff utilizes comprehensive treatment modalities that are tailored to individual needs, incorporating "evidence-based care for each client's personalized treatment plan."
Working alongside myriad community organizations such as California Youth Services, Waymakers, CHOC, UCI Medical and Irvine Unified School District helps to get the word out, and ensure they are able to help the widest range of adolescents possible.
“Early intervention is the key," says Derek. "If we can break the cycle, these teens and young adults won’t struggle like I did. That’s all I can ask for.”
OC Revive 24432 Muirlands Blvd., Suite 221 Lake Forest
Summer is just around the corner, and St. Anne School in Laguna Niguel is excited to welcome back campers from preschool through middle school to their Summer Knights Day Camp! This fun-filled camp runs for seven weeks, from June 14 - July 30, 2021, from 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
With health and safety protocols in place, adventure awaits as each camp day is filled with fun and educational activities. From arts and crafts, gardening and games, to beach days and water play, campers of all ages will enjoy reconnecting with friends and making new ones. Each week has a different theme, with activities planned to complement the theme. On Tuesdays and Fridays, K-8 campers will take a short walk to the beach for a fun, educational, and supervised day in the sun Preschool campers also enjoy some time in the sun with weekly water play.
Year after year happy campers return to the Summer Knights Day Camp and look forward to it as a summer tradition.
St. Anne summer camp offers a summer filled with memories. The dedicated staff members go out of their way to provide a memorable experience for the kids in a nurturing environment. The excitement for this year's camp is already building at our house. We can't wait for another fun-filled summer at St. Anne. - Kim Mohr, St. Anne parent
When your 7-year-old would rather go to the exact same campus they spend ALL year attending over the beach, you know it's a special place. Ms. Ingrid takes the safety and care of her kids very seriously, but the kids don't notice, which is what keeps it magical. - Nicolette Spencer, St. Anne parent
Camp costs: T/TH: $160, M/W/F: $230, M-F: $335
Activity Fee: $50 one-time non-refundable
Registration is now open. Visit www.st-anne.org/summercamp for more details and to sign up.
ST. ANNE SCHOOL
32451 Bear Brand Road Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
www.st-anne.org
Kids Making a Difference Ryan Hickman - Ryan’s Recycling
Eleven-year-old Ryan Hickman has become an international icon for recycling and environmental awareness. Ryan started recycling when he was just three years old and has since recycled nearly 1.3 million bottles and cans (over 70 tons) over the past eight years in his effort to clean up the planet and to keep pollution out of our oceans and landfills.
Ryan leads and organizes weekly beach clean up events at Doheny and Capo Beaches and travels internationally speaking about recycling and saving our planet from plastic pollution. He started a recycling program within his elementary school and volunteers his time recording educational videos for schools - inspiring others
across the world through his recycling education events and his passion to make the world a cleaner place.
Ryan’s story of recycling went viral in December of 2016 and since that time, has had an amazing 200+ million people watching his videos on social media. He’s a proud supporter of The Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Laguna Beach and donates proceeds from his Ryan’s Recycling branded apparel on his web site to their organization. To date, Ryan has donated over $13,000 to their organization to help with sea lion and seal rescue, rehabilitation and release efforts.
Among his many accolades, Ryan is a proud recipient of the CNN Young Wonder award. He’s been named one of the top 100 Most Influential People of Orange County and is a top 20 finalist for TIME magazine’s 2020 Kid of the Year.
summer ART CAMPS
Home Improvement Spotlight:
Hard as it may be for her
Today, with her daughter Lisa by her side, the pair of expert seamstresses boast a unique distinction in their business.
"We have a workroom on our premises which allows us to offer a wide range of products and services to fit our clients’ needs and lifestyles," says Cecilia. "We proudly stand behind all of all of our work. We believe in quality craftsmanship and use only the best materials for our projects."
The company, which originally started up on Del Mar in the 1970s, worked its way to its current location with a
steady stream of loyal customers and their referrals to keep their operation going strong.
"I entrusted my two Louis XVI chairs for reupholstering and was delighted with her work," says client Ellendea T. "Given the superb attention to detail I would say the cost is quite reasonable. I highly recommend her. She is often busy, so book ahead for your projects."
Although Cecilia’s Interiors offers a wide variety of services, they specialize in custom:
• Draperies and valances
• Re-upholstery and Slip Covers
• Complete Bed ensembles (bedspread, skirts, shams)
In most cases, if you don’t sign up for Part B when you turn 65 you’ll have to pay a late enrollment penalty for the rest of your life.
However, if you’re covered by a large group health plan, you don’t need to sign up for Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period.
Once your Initial Enrollment Period ends, you may have the chance to sign up for Medicare during a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). If you’re covered under a Group health plan based on current employment, you have a SEP to sign up for Part A and/ or Part B anytime as long as:
• You or your spouse (or family member if you’re disabled) is working.
• You’re covered by a group health plan through the employer or union based on that work and it’s larger than 20 employees insured.
You also have an 8-month SEP to sign up for Part A and/or Part B that starts at one of these times (whichever happens first):
• The month after the employment ends
• The month after group health plan insurance based on current employment ends
You don’t pay a late enrollment penalty if you sign up during a SEP (Special Enrollment Period) such as the 2 examples just mentioned.
Important!!!!
COBRA and retiree health plans aren’t considered coverage based on current employment. You’re not eligible for a Special Enrollment Period when that coverage ends.
Once you activate Medicare then the next step is to decide on your private insurance options that either accompany your Original Medicare benefit, or replace (Medicare Advantage plans). That’s where I come in to help. My services are free to you because I’m compensated by the insurance companies that I represent.
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.
We make the wig look like it’s growing out of your scalp, not sitting on it!
When you experience hair loss due to medical reasons, it can be devastating. A wig can make all the difference in helping you look good and feel better about hair loss.
No matter what the causecancer, chemotherapy, alopecia, female pattern baldness or thinning hair ... Our goal is to help you look and feel your best!
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
For nearly 40 years, AlzOC has been committed to the 84,000 people in Orange County affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Our services and programs help caregivers, families and those struggling with memory loss – and frail, vulnerable older adults – with education, information, emotional support, resources and tender care to ease the journey ahead.
COVID-19 community response. Extensive pro bono distribution of masks, gloves, sanitizer and other essential PPE, and opened a specially managed COVID-19 residential care unit.
Connect with others. Draw comfort, hope and strength from our many support groups, now available virtually.
Prioritize your brain health. Find out more about healthy brain aging, memory enhancement, or participate in a Memory Screening with our trained specialists.
Educate yourself. Learn about memory loss and dementia by attending our interactive classes to improve and refine vital skills, while we connect you with community services.
Adult Day Health Services. AlzOC’s two Adult Day Health Centers–Acacia in Garden Grove and South County Adult Day Services in Laguna Woods–care for OC’s vulnerable older adults and will help maintain your loved one’s independence.
Irvine Cottages. Get the full-time care your family needs from our trusted, licensed, award-winning residential memory care.
Concerned about memory loss? Our trained, caring experts will provide you with information, emotional support, education and referrals. Or check out our website to learn more about our programs, alzoc.org or facebook.com/alzoc
