We struck gold when we started advertising with Community Publications. We know exactly when the publications arrive in mailboxes because our phones ring off the hook and we are slammed with new business. We are extremely pleased with the response!
JEFF MCCABE
One Way Painting • Serving all of Orange County • Advertising Partner since 2011
“Our participation in the magazines produced by Community Publications has been a great asset and a complete success in terms of our marketing efforts and return on our investment. My office staff report that the feedback from potential clients has been very positive. Customers are so pleased that the guy on the cover is the same gentleman who shows up to meet with them. Call volumes have increased in the cities the magazines cover. Participating in South County Magazine and Sorbet - a SoCal Senior Publication has been such a positive experience! We are grateful and look forward to working with Jody and her team again in the future.”
JOHN SCHRAB
Morena Tile and Stone • Advertising Partner since 2017
Advertising with Community Publications has been a total win! The response we have gotten with a full page ad and cover features has been outstanding. Our goal was to let people know we are here and where they could find us, and the results have been more than we could have hoped for. Customers are continually bringing in the magazine saying “Wow, I did not know you guys were here, so glad we found you, your store is amazing with such great selections.” Jody is a pleasure to work with and her team does a fantastic job with our crazy cat ad ideas. A big thanks to Jody and her team for all their hard work and dedication to keeping it local!
For Advertising Info, call Jody (714) 469-3495
30 Years in the same Location
CUSD Food and Nutrition Services
Progressive School Food Service Operation
The Food and Nutrition Services Department from Capistrano Unified School District runs a progressive school food service operation. They were one of the first districts in Orange County to include plant-based breakfast and lunch options on school menus and are one of the few districts in the county utilizing compostable meal packaging and utensils.
The department of 155 employees values student collaborations. In the past five years, the department piloted a plastic free CUSD program by selling boxed water, added smoothie beverages to secondary menus, removed straws from their operation, included organic produce on menus, collected bread tabs for recycling, implemented food share stations at all sites, and held healthy recipe contests.
The team created a partnership with the school garden team at Las Palmas Elementary by creating garden inspired recipes such as Tri-colored Confetti Salad. Unfortunately, collab-
orations stopped when the pandemic hit. The team had to shift many aspects of their operation and focus on feeding the community. Fast-forward two years and CUSD’s meal participation is at a record high as all students can eat school breakfast and lunch at no cost. The team is eager to return to their collaborative and progressive roots for the 2022-2023 school year.
CUSD Food and Nutrition Services applied for a 2022 California Farm to School Incubator Grant from the California Department of Food and Agriculture. CUSD’s progressive values and passionate student community are the driving forces to engage with farm to school practices. The district will find out if they are awarded funding in September 2022. They are optimistic to use grant funding to purchase local fruits and vegetables and California pasture-raised beef for school menus. After surveying principals, they discovered many school gardens lost momentum and support during the pandemic. They also discovered schools that want to
start new gardens. For these reasons, the team requested additional grant funding to support existing school gardens, create new school gardens, and purchase hydroponic garden towers. Food and Nutrition Services is hopeful to receive grant funding to connect students and the community to California farmers and ranchers.
CUSD Food and Nutrition Services is also undergoing a two-year certification process with Eat REAL. Eat REAL is a third party that facilitates an indepth, comprehensive assessment of school food service programs. Their program presents a higher standard and certification that guides school districts on their journeys to improve food in schools. Eat REAL certification is made up of 10 standards measuring 34 key performance indicators including use of minimally processed foods, sustainable sourcing and seasonality, animal welfare, antibiotic use sustainability, fresh produce, transparency, waste reduction and management, and more. CUSD is Eat REAL’s first district from southern California. Eat REAL performed a thorough analysis of the Food and Nutrition Services program during the 2021-2022 school year. The program now enters the action phase for the 2022-2023 school year. As part of the action phase, they are focusing on sourcing sustainable produce, seasonal and local produce, and ingredients that maximize animal welfare and minimize environmental impact.
CUSD Food and Nutrition Services is thrilled to continue offering free breakfast and lunch to all students for the 2022-2023 school year. They start the new school year excited to continue their work with Eat REAL and are hopeful to receive California Farm to School Incubator Grant funding.
Amidst this excitement, the department anticipates continued supply chain shortages from food vendors. There may be unexpected changes to published menus similar to last school year. The team does their best to provide updates on their Instagram account CapoFood. Visit Capistrano.healtheliving.net for program information, menus and more.
A Place to Belong! A Place to Be Well!
Most people think of YMCA of Orange County as a gym, pool, sports facility or a center for child care, but we want you to know that we are so much more than whatever you might envision.
We are a place to thrive. A place that welcomes all. Being healthy means more than just being physically active; it’s about maintaining a balanced spirit, mind and body. The Y is a place where people at every level of health can be active and make meaningful connections. It’s true that being physically active is very much a key part of what we do for the communities we serve; our fitness facilities provide equipment and classes for members at all fitness levels. But we also provide a place for members to cultivate friendships, reclaim healthy habits, overcome challenges, set new goals and be the best version of themselves.
A positive place for kids. As parents and caregivers work to balance their careers, lives and families, many need a safe environment where they know their children will be cared for and where they can learn, grow and play. Our before & after school care programs, which welcome children TK – 8th grade, allow every child to participate in curriculum-based learning, STEM projects and other educational activities. For children experiencing developmental and learning disabilities, our Y Inclusion program provides specialized care and services to help them thrive. During school breaks, our Resident Camps, Oakes and E.L.K. bring children of all backgrounds together for a week of exploration and adventure, creating memories they’ll cherish for the rest of their lives.
A place for family. At the Y, we believe that it pays to invest in family time. Whether you want to deepen your relationships, be active with
your kids or meet other families whose interests are similar to yours, our activities, programs and events encourage families to grow together. There’s something for everyone! You can enjoy family swim time early in the morning and then embark on an outdoor adventure through our Family & Adventure Guides programs. We mean it when we say there are plenty of opportunities to create special memories your entire family will re member forever.
A place for enrichment & education. Building strong kids will strengthen the foundation of our communities for years to come. Through our Enrichment Clubs, Esports Program, Homeschool Support & Electives Program, Summer Camps, Teen Programs and more, we create opportunities for our youth to envision and pursue their best possible future. We know that our Y staff and volunteers are also mentors and role models, which is a key part of any child’s development. They share a part of this very important responsibility in helping youth realize who they are and what they can achieve.
tional health and well-being of our members. Through our New Horizons program, we promote skill-building, social opportunities, and a safe place where loved ones and caregivers know that their child or adult with special needs is well cared for.
The YMCA is—and always will be— dedicated to building healthy, connected and thriving children, adults, families and communities. Every day our impact is felt when an individual
A place for community. If you are looking to connect, meet new people and build strong relationships, the Y can help. Through our special events, group exercise classes, and more –we focus on strengthening the emo-
makes a healthy choice, when a parent works hard to grow a connection with their kids, when a mentor inspires a young adult and when a community comes together for the common good.
The Y is a place for YOU! Learn more at ymcaoc.org.
Your child is unique and full of potential, and they deserve the very best that an education can provide! We invite you to schedule a tour and see for yourself why Fairmont has been voted Orange County’s Best Multiple-Campus Private School for eight years running.
ST. ANNE SCHOOL
Celebrating 30 Years of Educating Knights for Tomorrow
When you walk onto St. Anne School’s campus in Laguna Niguel, you will likely hear students practicing musical instruments, laughing on the playground, or singing at weekly Mass. You might witness Grade 8 students designing a website on their MacBooks, second graders dressed in period costumes as they explore their ancestry on Ellis Island Day, preschool students engrossed in hands-on learning at their outdoor classroom, or a bus filled with Grade 5 students ready to take off on a field study’s trip to Astro Camp.
St. Anne School is an independent Roman Catholic school celebrating 30 years of providing a supportive learning environment where each child is inspired to pursue their highest level of academic achievement, spiritual formation, and character development. The collaborative community of inspirational teachers, dedicated administrators, and committed parents ensures students are empowered to explore their God-given gifts, discover
their passions, and envision their future as a positive influence on the world.
The devoted teachers at St. Anne School are trained in differentiated instruction, using strategies that stimulate deeper thinking and discussion with students. St. Anne School continues to develop much more than a student’s academic skills. With a strong Student Support Services department, all St. Anne students benefit from a team focused on physical, personal, and mental well-being. This 11-person department also encourages character development and offers academic support for students with mild to moderate learning differences.
Students are given the freedom to explore and discover their passions and gifts through various elective classes such as orchestra, studio art, digital media production, and creative writing. A St. Anne student might also discover they are passionate about spirituality and service to others. Guided by the teachings of the Catholic Church, St. Anne School offers a
vibrant Campus Ministry program where students are encouraged to participate in Christian service, class retreats, Masses, and spiritual leadership while growing a deeper connection to their faith. Afterschool programs such as the awardwinning HarmonKnights show choir, the school play, and a variety of sports teams also offer opportunities for students to continue to explore and grow.
St. Anne School looks forward to celebrating its 30th school year filled with opportunities for students to explore their gifts, discover their passions, and envision their future.
To schedule a private tour or learn more about St. Anne School, please contact the Office of Admissions at 949.371.9932.
enjoys national recognition of intentional effort for student social-emotional support
By Ryan Burris, Chief Communications and Engagement Officer, Capistrano Unified School District
Tesoro High School was recently added to a list of 11 Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) campuses nationally recognized for their commitment to fostering students’ social-emotional support and growth by thoughtfully-engaged counselors.
The American School Counselors Association (ASCA) awards schools with the Recognized ASCA Model Program following an in-depth application process that evaluates school districts’ ability to deliver comprehensive, data-informed school counseling programs.
This goal of supporting students’ social-emotional needs has taken on new urgency during the pandemic as students across the nation report they’re coping with more stress and uncertainty at school and home.
“The recognition of CUSD counselors’ hard work from elementary through high school is energizing,” said Refugio “Cuco” Gracian, CUSD’s executive director of cultural proficiency, equity, access, and social-emotional learning. A district team applied for RAMP recognition in 2018.
“It just validates my passion. It keeps the fire alive and motivates me to find new ways to support students and not only be successful in academics but in their futures,” Gracian said.
A major element of obtaining RAMP status is harnessing staff-tracked data on students’ attendance, academic
performance, or disciplinary issues that may indicate a student is at risk for a mental health crisis. By correlating disciplinary data and a potential need for counseling services, Gracian and his colleagues expect they’ll be able to intervene earlier.
“I think it speaks volumes to the type of support our district wants to provide our students,” Gracian said.
Among the strategies employed by counselors are guided groups focused on mindfulness and conflict mediation skills. Counselors also conduct one-on-one sessions with students helping to develop their resiliency when facing adversity.
“All of us — our students and staff — have encountered a scenario over the last three and half years that we’ve only read about in books, but nobody is giving up on each other,” Gracian said. “COVID-19 had us pause and think about what’s really important. It’s given us a sense of unity and connectedness.”
By rolling out a RAMP-recognized system of support, district leaders expect to reinforce a positive school climate and support learning recovery and enrichment in core areas impacted by the pandemic. They’ll measure its effectiveness over time through the California Healthy Kids Survey and attendance rates.
The CUSD schools presently recognized with RAMP status include Aliso Viejo, Shorecliffs, Marco Forster, and Las Flores middle schools, Ambuehl,
Castille, Hidden Hills, and Vista Del Mar elementary schools, Esencia K-8, and Tesoro and Capistrano Valley High Schools.
The RAMP designation lasts for five years and schools must reapply to ASCA at the end of this term. About 1,200 schools have earned the RAMP designation nationwide.
ASCA’s recognition of these and other initiatives by Capistrano Unified counselors recognized the support that counselors have seen from CUSD’s Board of Trustees and administrators in a challenging era, said Omero Corral, a counselor on special assignment.
As a counselor who specializes in foster and homeless youth services, Corral is optimistic that the RAMP-recognized support system will allow him to see and act on trends for a particular student or students.
“It just makes you very intentional on how your counseling department, in partnership with the school, supports students’ counseling needs. That is so amazing in the time of the pandemic because this intention is renewed every single year,” Corral said.
Gracian says he couldn’t be more proud of the district’s team effort that has allowed almost a dozen CUSD schools to stand out on a national stage.
“I think it’s important to recognize the work our counselors have done is second to none. It speaks to the love, dedication, and professionalism of our counselors,” Gracian said.
n Saddleback Faculty Teaching College Courses
n Full and Half-Day Preschool Programs (Ages 3-5)
n Transitional and Full-Day Kindergarten
n Class Size Reduction
n Award-winning TK-12 General Music, Instrumental & Choral
n Spanish & Mandarin Immersion (Beginning in preschool)
n STEAM-Focused Labs in Elementary and Middle School
n Credentialed PE Teachers in Elementary
n Mental Health Counselors at Elementary, Middle & High School
n College & Career Advantage: 31 Career Pathways and 150 Courses Leading To Industry Certifications & Degrees
n FIRST® Robotics: FTC and FRC Competition Teams
Game On
Five Unique Benefits to Different Types of Play in Your Child’s Development
“Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning.” - Mr. Rogers, television personality
Children naturally play for fun, yet during play they’re also building and practicing skills, creating and strengthening relationships, exploring and processing emotions, and so much more.
Here, we’ll shine a light on five types of play, based on the work of child development researchers. Each one has its own unique value, and most importantly, all five types of play are interconnected.
EXPLORATORY/OBJECT/SENSORY PLAY -
This is a child’s first experience with play, when they do things like grab objects (or food!), touch them, squeeze them, put them in their mouths, drop them, or bang them together. They’re developing fine motor skills and eye-hand coordination, while also learning about object characteristics and processing sensory information such as texture, temperature, scent, and flavor. Sensory play continues into preschool age and beyond.
CONSTRUCTION PLAY - Once children learn how to manipulate objects during exploratory play, they can move on to using objects to build and create. For toddlers and preschoolers, this might be progressively building taller
towers out of blocks, connecting pieces together, or using play dough. As children practice this type of play into elementary school, their creations become progressively more complex. Construction play can be done alone, or with others – which encourages collaboration and problem-solving.
PHYSICAL PLAY - Like exploratory play, physical play begins in babyhood and plays an important role in motor development and health. As they learn to use their bodies in more complex ways, they begin to play through running, climbing, jumping or engaging in “tumbling” activities. From there, physical play leads to games with rules, like tag or organized sports.
IMAGINATIVE PLAY – Imaginative play emerges when toddlers are about 18-months-old, alongside the cognitive milestone of symbolic thinking. Also known as pretend play, it develops through several stages from toddlerhood to elementary school. From pretending a block is a phone, to inventing increasingly dynamic imaginary storylines and acting them out using props, costumes, or sometimes nothing at all!
A unique and important aspect of imaginative play is that children use it to understand their emotional world. As an example, you might observe a toddler putting a stuffed animal on a potty chair while they themselves are potty training. Or an older child and a sibling might act out driving a car from their own observations and experiences.
GAMES WITH RULES - Around age five, after having plenty of practice with other types of play, children begin to play games with rules (card games, board games or sports). Games with rules are critical for developing countless life skills, including following directions, collaborating, strategizing, self-regulating, and using resilience after a loss or failure. Elementary-aged children, when given the opportunity, will invent their own games with rules, which both reflects and further develops executive function skills – which are central to planning, organizing, and executing a goal.
The most important thing to remember is that every type of play nurtures a child’s development, and also supports the development of more sophisticated types of play. For example, object play helps children manage tools during constructive play. Regular physical play helps children feel confident playing sports or other active games. The planning and problem-solving involved in imaginative play helps children feel engaged and challenged as they learn and grow.
With just a few materials and plenty of opportunities, it’s easy to encourage all types of play!
If you are interested in learning more about Stratford School, or scheduling a personalized tour, visit us online at www.stratfordschools.com.
Life
Dancing Through Training the Heart and Soul at South Coast Conservatory
BY JODY ROBINSON
In the 1960’s, a man named Roger W. Sperry developed a theory: that the human brain goes about thinking in two very different ways. Having worked in the field of psychobiology for years, he’d noticed that one side of the brain saw the big picture - processing information in an intuitive and simultaneous fashion. The other, putting sequential pieces together like a puzzle, parts making a whole. We all use both sides of the braincomplementing logic with creativity. But ask any dancer, writer, sculptor, or painter and they’ll tell you they’re “right brained.”
Controlling three-dimensional spatial reasoning, creativity, and artistic ability, right brain dominance certainly has given us some of the world’s greatest art forms. And South Coast Conservatory is finding more and more ways to celebrate it.
Founded in 1992, the Conservatory is heading into its 30th year of operation. Specializing in individual and group dance in classical, contemporary and commercial, they provide programs for kids from age 2-18. Programs to help children grow, programs that train “the heart and soul of every dancer,” says Director + CEO Jena Minnick-Bull.
South Coast Conservatory offers eight separate programs, from PreAcademy to Competitive Dance Teams, a certified acro/aerial arts gym and a dance supplies store.
“We start kids in our ‘Pre-Academy’ program to introduce them to a range of dance styles, such as ballet, tap, jazz, tumbling, hip hop, and song and dance,” says Jena. “Once they grow into the ‘Academy’ program, they receive a more in depth training, also beginning to learn contemporary, break dancing, pilates, lyrical, acting, and pointe.” With one-fifth of South Coast’s kids joining the competitive level of dance, their
program structure is set perfectly to grow with them: accelerated training with elite coaches in either its “Ballet Conservatory” division, or the “Elite Academy” - prepping kids for the commercial world of dance. It isn’t just for kids either: Christina Portillo has been attending the Conservancy for over ten years as an adult, “engaging in various dance styles, performing with the Ballet Conservatory, and even competing with the adult hip hop team: Moms Crew.”
Linking up the left and right brains is an automatic function of the body - synthesizing even to the smallest degree what we are seeing out of our left and right eyes, and putting the picture together as a whole. Because each student learns differently, South Coast has set up a compassionate and individualized teaching philosophy. “We take the time to understand and aid the goals of our students.”
And dance, really, isn’t just about processing information intuitively,
as most might think. The analysis of sequential movements, for example: choreography. A projected kinetic trajectory on an angled plane: leaping. Symmetry, patterning, geometrygroup theory and permutations. Left brain and right brain working together to create beauty, community, and create a passion for learning that will persist for years beyond any single dance class.
Parents learn about passion alongside their children too. Adriana Escobar notes that she loves South Coast Conservatory because it introduced her daughter to such a passion: musical theater. “[The Conservatory] provided her with the place and people she needed to take a chance to dance, sing, and then to act. Today, it’s her passion and she is comfortable on any stage.”
Roger Sperry went on to be awarded the Nobel Prize in 1981 for his work in psychobiology - and certainly, while South Coast is preparing kids for a lifetime of creative, rightbrained pursuits, Jena notes that “all of our graduates go on to pursue many diverse degrees and careers using the lifelong skills our school provided them.”
South Coast Conservatory 27652 Camino Capistrano Laguna Niguel (949) 367-0099
SCConservatory.com
Director + CEO Jena Minnick-Bull
Unlimited friend requests Games start in September (~10 games)
Sign up as an individual or as a team* *ESL will send players to help fill your roster if needed! (ages 3 & up) Head Coach’s child plays FREE! Register
Cefali & Cefali, APC Trusted Accident Attorneys for the Most Serious Injuries
By Jody Robinson
It’s a remarkable feeling when you can find someone to take your side. In relationships, sports: you name it. That one person who believes in you, makes you better, fights alongside you.
Michael Cefali matched with his person (his wife Courtney) long before law school - but their partnership extended through the long years studying for the bar and paid off in an even match that has stacked up in their favor many times over. Graduates of Chapman Law and California Western, respectively, they started the San Juan Capistrano-based Cefali & Cefali, APC in July of 2019 and have been fighting for the little guy ever since. From setting clients up with top-tier doctors and specialists, to negotiating stellar settlements, Cefali & Cefali, APC handles cases from start to finish with client health as their top priority.
Focusing on all aspects of personal injury, the Cefalis are what you might expect in such a ring: passionate, aggressive, and most importantly, honest - all traits that have contributed to the couple having recovered millions of dollars per year on behalf of their clients since opening their firm.
“The insurance companies would like you to think that they get to determine the value of your injuries, your suffering,” says Michael. “We’ll fight for every last penny because we know that you deserve it.” Clients appreciate the work that the Cefalis do. In fact, as of the date of this publication, you won’t find a single negative review of their firm anywhere on the internet.
Client Jamie shares, “I am so grateful for everything that Mike Cefali and his team did for me! Not only was he able to help me get what I was owed in my settlement and then some, but he was so responsive and kind and
it was very apparent that he cared about me and my case! He and his team are so HONEST and FAIR and
it was clear from start to finish that he had my best interest in mind! Not only is he a good lawyer but he is a
Michael and Courtney Cefali
good person which made a world of difference for me. I could not have asked for a better experience with a personal injury attorney! I have already recommended him to all of my friends and I will continue to recommended him to anyone looking for a good lawyer! Thank you so much Cefali and Cefali!”
Another client Carrie echoes Jamie’s sentiment, “My husband and I were rear-ended on the freeway. We felt bad thinking of contacting a lawyer, but after several months of continuous pain and medical treatments, a friend recommended Michael Cefali. From the beginning, he lived up to his core values of integrity, loyalty, and vigorous advocacy. Michael is a dedicated, friendly, and competent attorney who seamlessly represented our interests and ensured the outcome was in our favor. He treated us not like a client, but like family; he was there any time we needed him. He was empathetic to our situation and worked tirelessly with all parties to represent us. We don’t trust many people, but we trust Michael and his team and would highly recommend him to anyone seeking a professional, effective, and focused attorney.”
With five staff members to back up the stellar work Michael and Courtney produce, the couple remain incredibly hands on, based on a culture of empathy, integrity and advocacy.
“We craft each case personally, build each one for trial, and remain accessible to clients,” says Michael. “Personal injury attorneys get a bad rap when really we’re the good guys. I like to think of our firm as a pirate ship. Nimble, clever, and tenacious in spite of being outspent by the adversary, we pry money from greedy insurance companies and give it to our very deserving clients.”
Giving back is the spirit of the firm, and community work creates a direct link between Michael, Courtney, and their circle in San Juan Capistrano. The couple and their team proudly supports a number of local charitable and community organizations including: The Boys and Girls Club of Capistrano Valley (Courtney is on the Board of Directors), The San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library (Courtney is also a board member), CREER, the Pacific Marine Mammal Foundation, and Project Coyote. Michael is a member of the San Juan Capistrano Rotary Club and has been recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow.
The Cefali team’s ethics, constant communication (every client is given Michael’s personal cell phone for easy accessibility), commitment to their clients and involvement in the community keeps everyone growing stronger and healthier together. Remarkable isn’t it, that feeling when someone takes your side?
• Our epoxy coating is an award-winning, patented process
• Minimally invasive process – less destruction, dust and debris
• No resident displacement
• Most houses can be completed in 1 day* *call
Investing in Gold, Silver + Bullion with the ROYAL GOLD GROUP
By Jody Robinson
One of the perks of my job as a magazine editor is being able to interview entrepreneurs in a wide variety of industries - an opportunity for a bit of education on businesses I might not otherwise have had exposure to.
In today's market, I've read my share of articles about the importance of hedging against inflation, but it wasn't until I chatted with Ali Soltani, owner of the Dana Point-based Royal Gold Group that I learned about options and benefits in investing in gold and silver.
It doesn't hurt that Ali waxes poetic about all kinds of currency like he was Nicholas Cage’s National Treasure character talking about the George Washington campaign buttons. Before I met him, the concept of investing in coins and precious metals seemed as fantastic as someone attempting to steal the Declaration of Independence. The more I learned though, its ties to true financial finesse are difficult to ignore.
Following in his father's footsteps, Ali has been a personal collector of coins and currency since he was a child and it's clear that educating clients or the lay public in general about currency is absolutely a passion for him. Much more than a hobby, Ali makes it a specialty rather than a
simple customer service transaction. For the last five years, Royal Gold Group has been operating in South Orange County. Part of the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, Royal Gold originally started as a small shop in Old Town Tustin and has recently expanded to Dana Point in a much larger space. But why coins? Why currency?
“It isn’t about the formal business for us," says Ali. "I didn’t want to have just another old dirty coin shop. I enjoy the blend of customer service and sales in this specific arena - educating my customers and exchanging knowledge with seasoned collectors.”
Ali and his team at the Royal Gold Group cater to investors of all ages and abilities. If you are a novice investor, they can create an offering based on your specific goals. Are you looking to collect for pleasure, buy and sell for quick profit, or buy and sell for a long-term investment?
Offering private appointments for those clients who might need a little more time or privacy to look at products, “or go over valuable estate items they are looking to sell," jewelry repair, and coin appraisals mean less time out on the market, liquidating the responsibility for a single customer to travel distance for multiple appointments. Easily booked over the phone and offered free of charge, private appointments take the pressure off for clients who need extra time to catch up in a clean, wellorganized, stress-free and accessible environment.
“Coins and bullion are not for just a specific type of collector or investor anymore," says Ali. "We see patrons ranging in age from 6 to 76 years old: parents with their kiddos, seasoned collectors who have been in the marketplace for a generation. We welcome all.”
Royal Gold Group 34291 Doheny Park Road (next to the post office) Dana Point (949) 426-0901
Owner Ali Soltani
Because Home is Where the Heart is
For the majority of seniors living in California, quality of life equates to living at home. A recent AARP survey reports that 77 percent of seniors want to remain in their home for the long term.
The advantages of aging in place are numerous. As we age we want to maintain the highest degree of independence possible. Our home is familiar and comforting to us, it’s where we feel safe.
Throughout the pandemic we have seen our homes become a safe-haven, a place where we can heal and stay healthy. Our home is filled with memories and it’s what we’ve created over the years with our loved-ones.
Often times in order to keep seniors living at home in comfort and safety, services and help are needed. Many seniors have opted for home care services when they need help and want to remain at home.
As the senior population increases, so has the home care industry. We spoke
to Kyle Warner, co-owner of Your Home Care Inc. about what they do and the benefits of home care services.
Question: Tell us a little bit about Your Home Care and what it is that you do.
Answer: At Your Home Care, our mission is to enrich the quality of life for seniors by providing compassionate caregiving services at home. The agency was created in 2003 and is family owned and operated.
Our agency is licensed, insured and bonded, all our amazing caregivers are vetted, trained and background checked. We service most areas of Orange County, CA with a concentration in Laguna Woods and the surrounding cities. And we also work seamlessly with all Long-Term Care Insurance plans.
Q: What is the biggest gift or or blessing that you see while providing care for seniors?
A: The culture we have created here at Your Home Care is that of kindness and compassion. The most important
thing we can offer families is that we honor the people we are entrusted to care for. It is indeed a blessing to see our services make a positive impact in people’s lives. It is humbling to know that we get to provide a vital service that enriches and prolongs people’s lives.
Q: How many hours does a typical home care client start with?
A: The hours vary based on the needs of the client. Some clients like to start with a four-hour, or a six-hour shift. Others know they will need more care than that and schedule full days. We try to be as accommodating as possible to meet the scheduling needs of our clients.
We work with many clients coming home from the hospital, or skilled nursing facility and they require 24 hour care as they rehab and regain their strength.
Another important aspect of scheduling is establishing consistency and dependability for the families we serve. We work hard to have the same caregivers work with our clients whenever possible in order to build rapport and strong relationships.
Q: Tell us about the staff at Your Home Care.
A: Employees and clients say they appreciate working with us because they get to deal directly with the owners. They like working with the decision makers because it tends to make things run more smoothly and the process is more streamlined. Owners Segal Ronen and Kyle Warner oversee everything from client acquisition, employee operations to office administration.
But the real magic behind what we do is the talented, experienced team of caregivers we have the pleasure of working alongside. Our team is filled with special people and it’s apparent they genuinely love what they do and have “a calling” for this work. They are service-minded, kind people, who love to care for seniors as though they are family.
Q: What types of services does home care typically cover?
A: We offer a wide range of non-medical home care services and customize a care plan for every client. These services include personal care related services such as bathing, dressing, bathroom assistance and other personal hygiene needs. We prepare meals, provide transportation and help with housekeeping duties. We help with mobility and fall prevention. We basically help with all the activities of normal daily living that seniors might need a hand with.
Companionship and social engagement is another key aspect of caregiving. Some of our seniors feel isolated and lonely, so a caregiver becomes a friend to talk to and their bond is lasting.
Seniors with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or Dementia can benefit greatly from a caregiver because they are experienced in working with people with cognitive impairments. They are trained on the techniques used to manage behavior, keeping them safe and well supervised.
Q: What makes Your home care stand out above the other home care agencies?
A: The senior home care industry is growing and changing. The trend we are seeing is an increase in rates, add-on fees and lengthy minimum hour requirements.
At Your Home Care we don’t have lengthy minimum hour requirements, nor do we up-charge. We make every effort to be as accommodating and flexible as possible to meet the needs of our clients. We are responsive and available to our clients and caregivers when they need us. We act quickly to address and resolve any issue or concern.
Going back to our mission…to provide compassionate home care services that enrich families’ lives… with this in mind we are always looking for ways we can exceed our clients’ expectations.
Your Home Care is a company with heart, we care about our clients, and we care about our employees. If you are considering home care for you or your loved one, you can call Kyle Warner directly at (949) 424-9322 and let us show you how much we care.
AUGUST 2022
AUGUST
AUG 4 JEFF SKUNK BAXTER
AUG 5 SKELETON CREW (Grateful Dead Tribute)
AUG 6 RICHIE KOTZEN
AUG 7 THE EVERLY BROTHERS EXPERIENCE
AUG 11 DENNIS JONES BAND
AUG 12 MARK FARNER’S AMERICAN BAND
AUG 13 CRASH TEST DUMMIES
AUG 14 THE KINGSTON TRIO
AUG 18 THE AIRPLANE FAMILY
AUG 19 SUPERDIAMOND (The Neil Diamond Tribute)
AUG 20 SUPERDIAMOND (The Neil Diamond Tribute)
AUG 24 THE BACON BROTHERS
AUG 25 FASTER PUSSYCAT
AUG 26 THE YOUNG DUBLINERS
AUG 28 ALL-4-ONE
AUG 31 PAULA FUGA
SEPTEMBER
SEPT 1 TAB BENOIT with special guest JD SIMO
SEPT 2 THE FABULOUS THUNDERBIRDS
SEPT 8 THE SAMPLES
SEPT 9 YNOT (A Tribute to RUSH)
SEPT 13 COREY FELDMAN
SEPT 15 COCO MONTOYA
SEPT 16 THE LOVIN SPOONFUL
SEPT 17 JOHN MARK MILLMAN with special guests MARK BARLOW and GABLE PRICE AND FRIENDS
SEPT 18 BENISE - SPANISH NIGHTS
SEPT 21 ERIC GALES
SEPT 23 ROBBY KRIEGER OF THE DOORS
SEPT 24 ROBERT JON & THE WRECK
SEPT 27 MICHAEL SHENKER plus ERIC MARTIN OF MR. BIG
SEPT 30 LEONID & FRIENDS (A Tribute to Chicago)
AUGUST 12TH
MARK FARNER
As one of the founding members, lead singer, lead guitarist, and wrote 90% of the Grand Funk Railroad music catalog, Farner has always been known as the energetic driving force on stage, the engine that pulled the original Grand Funk Railroad to the top of the charts.
AUGUST 18TH
THE AIRPLANE FAMILY
THE AIRPLANE FAMILY performs the 50th Anniversary of PAUL KANTNER’S Rock Music / Science Fiction masterwork ‘BLOWS AGAINST THE EMPIRE’ with original & legacy members of Jefferson Starship, Hot Tuna, Jefferson Airplane, Bob Weir’s RatDog, KBC, NRPS, David Crosby Band & Oteil Burbrige Band.
AUGUST 25TH
FASTER PUSSYCAT
Faster Pussycat began in 1986 as the brainchild of singer Taime Downe. Faster Pussycat mixed Glam Metal with more classic bands like Aerosmith to make a Hard Rock sound that was unique compared to other bands of the era.
AUGUST 31ST
PAULA FUGA
Exquisite vocals, powerful lyrics and gorgeous melodies have earned Paula Fuga widespread praise and made her one of the most sought-after live performers in Hawai‘i and beyond. A poet at heart and an accomplished ‘ukulele player, she has intertwined her passions into award-winning, deeply original songwriting. Her debut album, Lilikoi garnered the prestigious Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award – Hawai’i’s Grammy - for ‘Most Promising Artist.’
Arturo Guevara
San Juan Capistrano artist Arturo Guevara began his art education at the age of seven, learning from and being influenced by the masters in his native Mexico City throughout his career.
Renowned artists such as Vasconcelos, Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, Saturnino Herran, Orozco, Siqueiros, Tamayo and Maestro Raul Anguiano have had a remarkable impact on Guevara’s life and work.
free for spectators San Juan Capistrano Artist Arturo Guevara
|
916-5956
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.
Six Splendid Days in the City of Light
By Jody Robinson
My 14-year-old daughter has long been obsessed with all things French - its food (crepes, baguettes, macarons), fashion and the idea of one day experiencing these “for real” in the City of Light. While we’ve traveled extensively within the borders of our own country endeavoring to visit all 50 states as a family by the time our now 15-year-old son graduates high school, we’ve ventured abroad too few times for her (or my) liking.
This summer we made a concerted effort to remedy that with an unforgettable family sojourn across the pond. While flying for upwards of ten straight hours with a pair of teens in tow might not sound like much fun, Paris is one of the most family friendly places to travel. Look beyond Disneyland (though that’s a great option, particularly for fami-
lies with littles) - think scenic river cruises along the Seine, more gorgeous gardens and verdant green spaces than you can shake a stick at, picturesque outdoor cafes and crepe stands around every corner and rife with both iconic and little-known landmarks rich in history and reflective of Paris’ vibrant art and cultural influences - past and present.
THE HIGHLIGHT TOUR
I’d been to Paris as a single woman in my late 20s and spent the better part of a week wandering the City of Light; known so for being the first city in Europe to light its streets with gas lamps; I must have averaged 12 miles on my feet per day. Absolutely torturing my toes to ensure I saw every square inch of every arrondissement, I promised myself if I ever went back, I’d try to be less intimidated by the metro system and even indulge in other modes of public transportation.
Arc de Triomphe
Choose between a classic ticket, which offers a single day with 10 top landmarks, pre-recorded commentary, and a flexible ticket, or upgrade to a Premium or Deluxe ticket - with all the basics plus an additional day of touring and option for a river cruise as well. Incredibly priced, you can choose to hop off at a particular sight to explore a bit more, or stay on the bus the entire time to snap crystal clear photos from the open top deck for the duration of the 2.5 hour ride. Whichever way you want, the Champs Elysees, Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and more are waiting for you. Save your feet for an easy stroll along the Seine at night.
Green River Cruises
This time around, swimming around online to put together ideas for our itinerary, I happily discovered Big Bus Tours (bigbustours.com). Offered in cities all over Europe, Central Asia, America, and the Middle East, their hop-on, hop-off tours give you a front row view of the sights you want to see, for a fraction of the footsteps. We used our ticket for our first day of adventuring, which proved to the perfect way to get the lay of the land, learn a bit of history/background on each of the 10 “stops” along the route and determine which were “must-see” destinations for the coming days.
GREEN RIVER CRUISES
CirqueMorenoBormann
Isak Dinesen was famously misquoted as a man for her line from “Seven Gothic Tales,” in which a seaman tells his son “the cure for anything is salt water - sweat, tears, or the sea.” Though the Seine, when it travels through Paris like a great wet artery, contains less salinity than the Atlantic, its ability to soothe is unmatched. Green River Cruises (greenriver-paris.fr) offers comfortable, luxurious private river tours for two to twelve guests per pontoon boat. Customizable boats provide a relaxing environment for a sunset aperitif, a romantic dinner for two, a fun
team-building experience or in the case of our family, an unforgettable experience of the city “in a different light” as we leisurely cruised past several of the city’s most iconic landmarks while our “captain” shared a bit of history and inside info from a local’s perspective.
With four electric boats in its fleet, Green River Cruises is dedicated to providing the most respectful experience for its guests and the planet alike. Sipping chardonnay as you tour one of the most enchanting cities in the world, you’ll see the evolution of Paris from its medieval heritage to the modern mecca it is today. Choose from a one, one-and-a-half, or a two-hour cruise and celebrate any special occasion or just a gorgeous day or evening on the water.
HIDDEN PARIS WALKING TOUR
I have a personal rule when traveling abroad - no chain restaurants. Especially American ones. I stand by this for a couple of reasons - to experience the city and its newness, but also that as I’ve followed the advice of locals over the years, I’ve enjoyed better food, better wine, and better sightseeing experiences in general. After all, we know what we like where we live so the local perspective can make all the difference between vacationing like a tourist or experiencing the environs more akin to a native.
Hidden Paris Tours (hidden-paris.com) exists solely to give its guests the most unique and intimate view of Paris there is. Our guide, company co-founder Delphine and her partners have already done all the legwork over the years ... roaming the city in search of delicious cuisine and incredible locales with which to share the colorful history and beauty of their fair city. Choose from a private, group or customized tour, whether your interest is in fine art, gourmet food or haute couture fashion.
We chose to explore the neighborhood of Montmartre and indulged in stories only a local like Delphine knows to share. In addition to witnessing firsthand the postcard perfect landmarks we all associate with Paris, we discovered charming neighborhoods away from the typical tourist destinations, meandered down romantic side streets, viewed the studio spaces that were once home to some of the world’s most fa-
mous artists, painters, singers, dancers of years past. From Versailles, museums, and monuments, to the world’s most famous cemetery (Pere Lechaise), experience Paris as though you were born a local and grew up with curiosity as a companion.
PARIS CATACOMBS
One doesn’t necessarily travel to another country hoping to hear about widespread public health problems, especially these days. But deep underground the romantic streets of Paris lie another tale to be told, one you don’t want to miss. In the late 18th century, Parisian officials began to worry about the impact above-ground cemeteries were having on the population of the city. Following the first evacuations of the Saints-Innocents cemetery, which had been in use for nearly ten centuries, the tombs, graves, and charnel house were emptied of their bones, and transported nearly five stories underground to abandoned quarry wells, and stacked high by workers through the night. Tours began in 1809, and have continued ever since.
Welcoming nearly 550,000 visitors annually, the Paris Catacombs (catacombes.paris.fr) are an artistic contemplation on introspection, and a meditation on death itself. The ossuary was carefully organized by Inspector Hericart de Thury, and boast a monumental approach, much like that of the Egyptian pyramids and their masonry monuments. Tours last roughly an hour, and if you were worried about balancing a bit of exercise on your tour de cheese while in Paris, you’ll certainly work off the morning’s baguette with 131 steps
into the depths, and 112 steps back up into the sun. Grab a timed ticket, your sweetheart or history-loving counterpart, and drop back a couple of centuries this vacation.
CIRQUE BORMANN MORENO
Who doesn’t love a good circus? Cirque Bormann Moreno ( cirquebormann.fr ) is a lively throwback to an earlier era when circuses were held in a traditional big top and the performers loved interacting directly with the public. The current “A Journey Through Time” themed showperformed in French - travels from the prehistoric era to ancient Egypt, Africa, the roaring 20s and modern day Paris.
Paris Catacombs
It was such a treat to experience this cirque de la belle Epoque - this seven-generation family of performers work together to entertain audiences of all ages with three weekly shows (Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays) featuring acrobats, trapeze artists, jugglers, clowns and an array of im-
pressively trained animals including a quartet of magnificent horses. Before each performance, there is free access to “initiation and animation” workshops where the visitors are afforded a “behind the scenes” experience - the younger attendees especially love this artist-supervised aspect.
A New Way of Flying Nonstop Los Angeles to Paris
After the past few years of waiting to again take to the skies, our family was thrilled to learn that France has lifted Covid restrictions for those flying into the country
and lifted mask mandates for those who have their feet on the ground. While many moms like me find that their patience is better these days after having struggled through the past
By Jody Robinson
couple of years of a pandemic, I’m certain anything that makes life a little easier is a wonderful respite. One of those things is an easily bookable flight, where you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg for nonstop travel from Los Angeles to Paris with the family. French bee (Frenchbee.com) makes that possible.
Founded in 2016, the low-cost longhaul airline is revolutionizing international flights with a fleet of Airbus A350s wide-body aircraft optimized for long flights. One hundred percent flexible tickets (and rail options to make traveling in country that much easier) to tailor your fare and flight experience any way you want it. Basic, Smart or Premium, you pay only for what you’re interested in. Get the lowest price you want, add a few extras, or go for the full package for maximum comfort and amenity. When booking travel, I find there’s often a bit of translating to do: what exactly is a la carte (there are more
than 20 add-on options)? What is economy, or premium? French bee defines it all.
If you’re looking for nonstop travel at the best possible rate, French bee offers two classes of economy (with one-way fares starting at only $326): Basic and Smart. Basic is the most economical option that comes with one 26-lb. carry-on included, while Smart includes the carry-on, one 50-lb checked bag and an inflight meal. Either of these economy options come with leather seats, adjustable headrests, USB and electrical ports (to keep all your devices charged throughout the entire flight) and what French bee bills as “unlimited entertainment.” I personally found the latter to be true ... I have a hard time sleeping on flights so I thoroughly enjoyed binge-watching a series of movies - new releases and older favorites on the individual HD touchscreen outfitted for every traveler.
An upgrade to Premium (with oneway fares starting at $767) takes you a step further with even more leg room, larger seats, two premium meals, complimentary beverage service, priority boarding, line jump and priority baggage (one carry-on and two 50-lb. checked bags) to make your trip a dream. Choose from a
Standard seat, Window, or Extra Leg Room. Customize, customize, customize. Down to the Michelin chef designed meal service, French Bee is there to ensure whatever it is that you need while aboard, they’ll ensure quality, custom service.
For our part, we literally experienced all three levels of service: my husband and I opted for Premium class on the outbound while the kids sat together in Smart Economy (our thought was that the little extras would make for a less-jetlagged and thereby less cranky crew at destination). My husband likes the extra leg room, so he traveled back in the Premium cabin while I sat with the kids in Basic economy. Having personally experienced both, either is a terrific option ... I’m only 5’3” so I was just as comfortable on the return and my daughter and I were able to watch shows together for a little extra quality time on the way home.
Bonus! At Paris Orly Airport prior to boarding our return flight, we took full advantage of the Prime Class airport lounge - a spacious, relaxing space close to our departure gate overlooking the runways with complimentary Wi-Fi, French and international newspapers, self-service hot and cold beverages and light bites (including crepes).
DISCOVER A NEW TRAVEL EXPERIENCE WITH TAILORED FARES
BASIC
The lowest price for your greatest pleasure. Ideal to travel light and affordably, you travel with a carry-on only and add all the services you want. Pay for only what you are interested in.
SMART
French bee’s most popular ticket type fare - includes a 50lb checked bag in addition to your carry-on plus a delicious in-flight meal (with a range of options including vegetarian and fish).
PREMIUM
Enjoy the same as above but with faster priority boarding and jump-the-line services at the airport, a larger seat, more leg room and priority baggage - you don’t need to wait for your luggage upon landing. Indulge your inner foodie with an additional in-flight meal and complimentary beverage service, plus an additional 50lb. checked bag.
Medicare Part A & B Sign Up Periods and Pitfalls to Avoid
By Stephanie Frisch
When you’re first eligible for Medicare, you have a 7-month Initial Enrollment Period to sign up for Medicare Parts A & B.
For example, you can sign up during the 7-month period that begins 3 months before the month that you turn 65, the month that you turn 65 and the 3 months after you turn 65. (If your birthday is the 1st of the month, your effective date for Medicare begins one month prior to your birthday month).
Important to note! If you wait until the month you turn 65 (or anytime during the 3 months after you turn 65) to enroll, your Part B coverage effective date will be delayed. This could cause a gap in your coverage.
Enrollment in Medicare Part A is no longer automatic because while eligibility for Medicare begins at age 65, the Social Security “fully vested” retirement age is no longer 65. Social Security and Medicare “share notes on you” for a simple explanation of why Social Security is in on the discussion of Medicare. If you’re taking Social Security early you will be automatically
enrolled in Medicare Parts A & B and they will mail you your Medicare card a few months prior to your Medicare effective date which is always on the first day of a month.
If you have group health insurance through you or your spouse’s employer, then you are allowed to use that coverage versus going onto Medicare without any late enrollment penalty from the government as long as it’s group coverage through an employer with 20 plus employees. When you decide you want to leave that coverage (retirement or just realizing Medicare is a better option for you versus your group health plan) then you apply for Medicare using what is referred to as a “Special Election Period”. It’s more complicated to apply for Medicare this way
then just going onto Medicare when you first turn 65. I don’t recommend trying to do this without the help of a Medicare professional (like me for example).
With the afore mentioned exception, in most cases if you don’t sign up for Medicare Part B when you’re first eligible, you’ll have to pay a late enrollment penalty. You’ll have to pay this penalty for as long as you have Part B going forward in your life.
IMPORTANT FACT!
If you’re eligible for Medicare, you don’t qualify for COBRA coverage without having to pay the Medicare Part B premium. You have 8 months to sign up for Part B without a penalty, whether or not you choose COBRA. If you miss this period, you’ll have to wait until the Medicare General Enrollment period which takes place Jan. 1 - March 31 to sign up for Medicare Part B, and your coverage will start July 1. This may cause a gap in your coverage, and you most likely will have to pay a lifetime Part B late enrollment penalty.
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 949-292-4958.
IVAN HO, DDS DICOI, FAAID,
AACD Implants • Cosmetic Dentist
“As a doctor myself, extensive knowledge and expertise is important. Dr Ho is truly an expert!” Steve H., Doctor
“I’ve been searching for a dentist with honesty and compassion, I found Dr Ho through a co-worker and refer all my friends and family to him.” Angela P., School Teacher
“Dr Ho and his team treats me with respect and values my feelings and opinions by involving me with my treatments. Also loves all his latest technologies.” Chris P., Attorney
The Value of Cold Therapy and Compression Wraps in Healing
By Pamela S. Mangen, MSN, MBA, RN, PHN, PCCN-CMC, LSSG
Cold therapy (also known as cryotherapy) with compression can be an extremely effective way to improve pain and swelling while reducing recovery times in the home following surgery or injury.
From ancient times to modern day, cryotherapy has been proven to aid in healing by exposing part or all of your body to cold temperatures for a short period of time.
Applying the cold to the injured areas reduces blood flow to the treated area. Reducing blood flow to injured areas helps to reduce inflammation, nerve activity, and swelling which in turn relieves pain in muscles, joints and tendons. Cold therapy can be as simple as using an ice gel pack or more advanced cold therapy device.
Cryotherapy has been helping to improve the human condition for thousands of years since Hippocrates of ancient Greece. Compression improves blood flow and can lessen pain and swelling so that the heart doesn’t work as hard.
Taking these concepts a step further, cryo-compression combines cryotherapy and static or intermittent compression through the use of wraps, bandages, compression socks, stockings, or boots to apply pressure to move the blood more effectively so that the injured area receives more oxygen-rich blood to promote healing.
Studies have shown that utilizing a combination of cold and compression therapy together (rather than just
one of those therapies alone) allows patients to experience significantly faster recoveries, which can be particularly beneficial for in-home care.
The many benefits of cold and compression therapy include decreased pain, swelling and edema during post-surgical rehabilitation or recovery after injuries such as sprains, fractures, and tears.
In the event of a sprain or pulled muscle, use the RICE METHOD; that is, get plenty of Rest, Ice the area, then apply Wrap (Compression) it and raise (Elevate) it up. Over the years, cold therapy and cryo-compression have evolved to allow caregivers to provide an increased level of patient care with the addition of advanced products and modalities, including cryo-compression wraps. These products are particularly useful in the home setting, where it has been proven that patients are not only more comfortable, but recover faster.
Pamela is President of Transition Care Telemetry, Inc., both a Home Health Agency & Hospice Agency. If you have any questions about cryocompression therapy, you can write: pamela.mangen@tcthealth.com
If you have any other health concerns, you are free to call one of our registered nurses anytime at: (833) TCT-HEAL.
•HOMEWORK SUPPORT
•OUTDOOR PLAY
•STEAM ACTIVITIES
•FULL-TIME & PART-TIME SCHEDULES
•FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE MAY BE AVAILABLE TO QUALIFYING FAMILIES
HOW TO REGISTER: VISIT YMCAOC.ORG/CHILD-CARE
Dental Anxiety? Here’s
How Sedation
Dentistry
Can Help
An upcoming dental procedure can bring up anxiety or stress, even when you’re not typically an anxious person. If this sounds like you, you’re not alone.
Nervousness about going to the dentist is quite common. Thankfully, dentists like your caring Shoreline Dental Studio professionals offer sedation dentistry so you can feel comfortable and at ease during your dental treatment with a sedation dentistry plan that’s personalized for you. Factors we’ll consider include your level of anxiety, the length of your procedure, your health history, and, of course, your personal preferences.
Dr. Ritzau, Dr. Livingston, Dr. Saad and Dr. Winters are specifically certified to assess our patients’ sedation dentistry needs and prescribe safe and effective solutions.
Sedation dentistry is meant to address your mental well-being during dental
treatment; it doesn’t affect your physical response to pain. So you’ll find that local anesthetics that numb your mouth are still used for procedures that normally require them.
Who can benefit from dental sedation?
We offer sedation dentistry for most adults at Shoreline Dental. Whether you’re visiting the dentist for a routine cleaning, a filling because of tooth decay, or a more involved procedure like a dental implant, dental sedation is available.
We recommend dental sedation for those who have:
• An overly sensitive gag reflex
• A fear of needles
• Tooth sensitivity
• Claustrophobia while in the dental chair
• Difficulty controlling their movements
• Special needs (physical, cognitive, or behavioral).
What are the Different Types of Dental Sedation at Shoreline Dental?
Oral Sedation
So what is oral sedation? Simply put, oral sedation is taking prescription anti-anxiety medication before your procedure to relieve your dental anxiety or nervousness. You’ll take the medication about an hour before your appointment.
The most common oral sedatives used in oral sedation dentistry are the same medications used to treat general anxiety, like Valium, Ativan, Halcion, and Ambien.
Expect to feel fairly drowsy during your procedure when using oral sedation — you might even fall asleep. We’ll keep a close eye on your vitals and ask you how you’re doing throughout your treatment. Oral conscious sedation also minimizes the memory of your procedure and it can allow your dentist to work more efficiently, thereby lessening how long you spend in the dentist’s chair.
Oral sedation wears off between 2-8 hours depending on which medication you took. It temporarily affects your memory and motor skills, so enlist a friend or family member to drive you home after your appointment.
Laughing Gas
Does inhaling nitrous oxide really make you laugh? Most likely you won’t giggle throughout your dental procedure, but laughing gas does calm your nervous system, helping you feel relaxed. Some describe its effects as a tingling sensation or a happy, euphoric feeling, which can, understandably, make you feel like laughing.
Receiving laughing gas at the dentist is simple. At the start of your dental appointment, you’ll inhale nitrous oxide mixed with oxygen through a mask fitted over your nose. You’ll start to feel calm and more relaxed in about 3-5 minutes. Your Shoreline dentist customizes your level of nitrous oxide so you’re optimally comfortable from beginning to end. Laughing gas at the dentist is a mild form of sedation, so you’re completely awake and able to communicate with us whenever you need.
How long does laughing gas last?
Nitrous oxide cycles through your body efficiently which is why you inhale it throughout your dental treatment and not just at the start. Once your treatment is done, you’ll breathe in pure oxygen for about five minutes to flush the nitrous oxide out of your lungs, avoid side effects, and refresh yourself.
Laughing gas dissipates quickly, so you can drive yourself home with 100% clarity if it’s the only type of dental sedation you used during your appointment. You might need to wait in the waiting room for a few minutes to ensure you’re ready to go about your day safely. Rest assured, our Shoreline team keeps a close eye on you and lets you know when it’s safe to leave.
Patients interested in dental sedation often ask us, “Is nitrous oxide safe?” Yes! It leaves your system quickly, and without any long-term effects. However, if you didn’t inhale enough oxygen at the end of your dental appointment, you might experience temporary side effects like:
• Headaches
• Shivering
• Excessive sweating
• Nausea and/or vomiting.
Laughing gas for children is usually safe and is often the preferred type of dental sedation because it’s mild. Talk with your child beforehand about how it’s administered — some kids might feel claustrophobic, nauseated, or uncomfortable with wearing the mask.
Get Complimentary Dental Sedation During Our Sedation Summer Promo
So how much does dental sedation cost? Good news! Through September 30, 2022, dental sedation is complimentary at our Orange County offices for qualified patients.
If you’ve been putting off a dental procedure because of dental anxiety, book your appointment today to take advantage of this $495 value and receive comfortable, anxiety-free dental treatment.
ENDING THE CYCLE OF HOMELESSNESS
• Youth experiencing homelessness have 24/7 access to a trauma-informed case manager
• Case managers work full-time directly on school campuses to provide customized, wrap-around support
• PHA provides mentorship, career guidance, basic needs, tutoring, financial aid, enrichment, resources and HOPE
MOutside SCR Returns
ission San Juan Capistrano and South Coast Repertory announce the return of Outside SCR at Mission San Juan Capistrano this summer through Aug. 21st. This year’s production of Million Dollar Quartet, book by Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux, original concept and direction by Mutrux, chronicles a momentous day in December 1956 when Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis played a jam session for the ages.
Directed by Broadway veteran James Moye, Million Dollar Quartet is the sole Outside SCR production in this second summer of partnering with the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano.
Ticket prices range from $25 to $42, with special pricing for those age 25 and under. Single tickets may be purchased online at www.scr.org or by phone at (714) 709-5555.
“Our
Teresa, loved one of a Serra Sol resident
When Teresa needed a memory care community for her loved one, Serra Sol Memory Care in San Juan Capistrano was her choice.
“The caregivers were attentive and kind and the leadership team was helpful, accommodating and assisted us with short notice. The community was clean without being sterile, and the meals were delicious. We were even able to bring in our golden retriever for visits!”
Highly Custom, Exceptional Quality
By Jody Robinson
In Southern California, our backyards and patio are often viewed as an extension of our entertainment spaces - a place for hosting parties, lounging by the pool or in the case of one of our family’s favorite pastimes, dining al fresco.
Because so much time is spent outdoors, many folks I know invest as much on their patio furniture as they do in appointing their interiors.
The problem is that over time the weather can be particularly hard on the metal and fabrics with constant exposure to the sun, salt air and in the case of homes closer to the ocean, even sand. With four generations of patio furniture repair and refinishing experience, CFR Patio specializes in restoring existing furniture and updating colors/styles for a far more cost-effective alternative to purchasing an entirely new set.
CFR’s services range from custom tailored outdoor cushions, sling fabric replacement, and vinyl strapping
replacement and vinyl lacing/weaving replacement to powder coat refinishing and commercial repair and restoration. Clients can choose from a large selection of metal finishes, fabrics and color schemes, including hundreds of colors and fabrics for slings, straps and cushions for a coordinated, polished result.
“CFR Patio is an incredible company to work with from beginning to end,” says Libby, a recent happy customer. “Each person I spoke with was extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Their service was fantastic. Pick-up and delivery was on time, and the furniture was very carefully handled. Our chairs, lounges and tables look like new, and I am sure they will last for many years to come. I highly recommend them.”
Another client, AJ agrees with Libby’s assessment and adds “I was so impressed with your prompt and professional service. I felt your pricing was very fair and actually surprising low. I highly recommend your store and staff. First class in every respect.”
Owners Brian Lee and his son Collin and their team offer pick up and delivery so the process couldn’t be more convenient.
They’ll strip the old, dull finish by sandblasting and pre-treating your set in preparation for the powder coating application (available in an array of colors and finishes including high/low gloss, metallic, textured or clear), which is then baked in an industrial oven to cure to a beautiful, long-lasting final finish. New straps or sling materials are then installed and voila! A brand-new look/feel for a fraction of the cost and hassle of removing your old set and purchasing a new one.
“What sets us apart from others in the industry is our attention to detail and a true passion for the industry,” says Brian, a Dana Point resident. “If you’re interested in an estimate, it couldn’t be easier ... simply send photographs of your patio furniture via email or call us directly. Your furniture was intended to last for decades and so is our work. That’s why we offer a three-year real warranty on all of our services.”
