Explore our new Village of Rienda at Rancho Mission Viejo and the opening of Ranch Camp that includes a 20,000 sq. ft. lagoon-style pool, Fitness Center with lap pool and hiking trails on The Nature Reserve. Seven neighborhoods now selling and four new neighborhoods coming late 2022 including Gavilán 55+ single-level living. Learn more at www. RiendaRMV.com
NOW SELLING
FROM THE $500s TO THE LOW $1 MILLIONS
PORTICO by Lennar
Three-Story Stacked Flats
OASIS by Lennar
Three-Story Row Townhomes
PAISLEY by Tri Pointe Homes
Single-Family Duplex Homes
WILDROSE by Tri Pointe Homes
Single-Family Homes
SERENITY by Lennar
Three-Story Single Family Homes
HARVEST by Meritage Homes
Two-Story Townhomes
EVOLVE by Pulte Homes
Two-Story Single-Family Homes
COMING LATE 2022
FROM THE MID $900s TO THE LOW $1 MILLIONS
BOTANICA by Tri Pointe Homes
Two-Story Single-Family Homes
DAHLIA by Trumark Homes
Two-Story Single-Family Homes Gavilán 55+ single-level living
HAVEN by Lennar
One & Two-Story Duplex Homes
PEARL by Lennar
One & Two-Story Single-Family Homes
Live Life Better
JASON SPATES
Doheny Bike •
Advertising Partner since 2020
We can tell when the new issue 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!
ENZO SCOGNAMIGLIO
Brio Tuscany Grille • Advertising Partner since 2012
We have been consistently participating in every issue and are very pleased with our experience. Jody and her team truly care about helping our business continue to succeed. If you are interested in reaching the South County community, I am absolutely thrilled to recommend Jody and her fabulous team!
JEFF MCCABE
One Way Painting • Advertising Partner since 2011
I really appreciate and value the service provided by Jody and her team at Community Publications. The close attention to detail that has gone into every article Jody has written is outstanding and has helped us get the word out on One Way Painting & California Gun Services. The articles you have written really show you understand what services we provide and what value we offer to our customers. Each time a magazine comes out, the calls increase, and we get to introduce the company to new people. Thank you for making everything so easy.
(714) 469-3495
30 Years in the same Location
Seating is limited. Reservations are necessary. No solicitations will be made.
Dynamic Duo
A Lifelong Friendship Continues at The Covington in Aliso Viejo
In the 1950s, Bobbie Riddell loved to play volleyball on Laguna Beach. Every chance she got, Bobbie was down by the water, sand in her toes, digging for balls and spiking winners. “It was a different time back then,” Bobbie says, “and so was the beach.”
Less crowded and not so developed, there was room to breathe and a sense of freedom for a generation only a decade removed from World War II. The Big Bopper was on the radio, Rebel Without a Cause was in movie halls and Elvis was everywhere, defining the decade’s youthful exuberance.
One beautiful, sun-kissed day in 1957, Bobbie and friends were playing volleyball when another young woman approached. Her name was Marion Sandell. Marion said she had not played much volleyball before
and was not particularly good, but asked if she could join in. Bobbie being Bobbie, immediately said Yes. True to her word, Marion was not particularly good, but she had a determination that Bobbie admired. Such are the moments that beget life-long friendships.
Bobbie and Marion quickly became a fearsome two-person volleyball team and played together for over a decade. As loyal teammates on the beach they had each other’s back, but off the sand, their friendship and commitment ran even deeper.
In 1963, when Bobbie was pregnant with her second child, Marion accompanied her to the hospital. “She was more nervous than I was,” Bobbie says. Together, they celebrated birthdays, anniversaries, and graduations while providing support during life’s challenging moments. “We were always there for each other,” Marion says.
After a dozen years as the volleyball queens of Laguna Beach, Marion and Bobbie started playing tennis. “We could get quite competitive sometimes,” Marion says. To this day the women still debate who had the better serve. “I did,” Bobbie laughs.
Eventually these natural athletes decided to take up biking. Both bought brand new bicycles and for the next 15 years did a twice weekly 20-mile ride. “Staying active kept us healthy, but it was also just plain fun,” Marion says.
Later in life, Marion’s first husband passed. A few years later Marion met new husband Bob and she settled into a new life. Then Bobbie lost her husband. Through it all, the women continued to remain close friends but
Bobbie Riddell (L) and Marion Sandell (R), lifelong friends.
for Bobbie, loneliness began to creep in, and she found her house too much for her.
In 2019, Marion and husband Bob moved into The Covington. Then, in 2021, Bobbie decided it may be time for her to consider making a change too. “Within one month I sold my house and moved in,” says Bobbie. “I miss my house, but it was absolutely the right decision; one I probably should have made sooner.”
Now the women are together again, sharing their life-long friendship – and they are as busy as ever. The Covington’s approach to proactive health and wellness ensures the women have numerous ways to stay active. “I especially enjoy our exercise sessions with Neal, the trainer at our community,” Bobbie says.
Physical activity is just one aspect of living well and The Covington ensures residents have a variety of ways to stay sharp and be at their best. Since arriving, Marion has taken up ceramics and enjoys the many livemusic concerts put on by the community. “Honestly, I do more here than I ever did at home,” she says.
The community spirit of The Covington is strong and both women have never shied away from trying something new. “We both play bridge but
There are so many activities to choose from and always something new to learn.
another resident, our friend Jade, invited us to try Mah Jong,” say Bobbie. “It’s my new thing, I love it.”
At this stage of her journey, Marion says she is grateful for the wellness, well-being, and peace of mind The Covington provides her. “I never thought I would be this happy at this age.” Bobbie concurs and says that being able to spend time with her best friend is the icing on the cake. “I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”
The Covington is a member of the ECS family of communities for active seniors. Founded on four commit-
ments – choice, creativity, confidence, and connection, ECS has been at the forefront of nonprofit senior living in Southern California since 1923.
CHOICE
At The Covington, your journey can be as adventurous or easy-going as you want. A maintenance-free lifestyle means freedom to create your future, pursue your passions and enjoy active independence. Our residences, villas, and cottages offer floor plans for all needs, freeing you from the worry of having to move again. With services to ensure your comfort and mobility, and amenities to keep you active and inspire learning, here, life is what you make it.
Like most ECS campuses, The Covington is a Life Plan Community. Choosing a community like ours ensures a plan for your care needs — now and in the future – with a focus on proactive wellness and a continuum of care. Making your home here also provides peace of mind, knowing you do not have to move should your needs change.
CREATIVITY
Our Creative Living philosophy drives life-long learning, growth, and social and cultural connections. Here, you will find the settings, services, and
Bobbie and Marion say they enjoy the lush gardens and walking paths at The Covington every day.
amenities that support fun, fresh opportunities for self-expression and discovery. Choose from fitness for all levels, theater and singing groups, and art and dance classes – all available on campus. If you need more inspiration, our communities are conveniently located near many of Southern California’s celebrated cultural destinations.
CONFIDENCE
Confidence is everything. As a nonprofit organization, ECS is continually reinvesting to improve infrastructure, services, and programs. No matter which Life Plan community you choose, you will experience relaxed, maintenance-free, sophisticated retirement living. With one of the highest credit ratings in the industry, ECS offers the security, services, and peace-of-mind that allows you to enjoy all life has to offer.
Staying healthy and active is always better with friends.
CONNECTION
The strength of a community is the strength of its people. Relax over morning coffee with friends, take a class, attend a lecture, and delight in live entertainment. Here, your social life is as vibrant as you are. Or contribute by serving on a resident club or leadership committee. Our “Resident Centered, Staff Supported” approach means you enjoy the full spectrum of quality-of-life benefits that comes from calling a Life Plan Community home. It is an environment that allows you to flourish and be your very best.
ABOUT US
The Covington offers exceptional continuing care, retirement community living in a secure, gated neighborhood in Aliso Viejo, Southern California. Our relaxed, maintenancefree, resort-style accommodations, and active campus environment offer the perfect place to continue your journey, on your terms.
We would love to hear from you. Please visit thecovington.org or phone (949) 209-3829 to learn more.
The culinary team at The Covington delivers inspired dining for the discerning palate.
fall Sept
ClubSport Aliso Viejo
and smoothies for dine-in or takeout crafted from real, wholesome ingredients sourced locally. And the piece de resistance (at least for parents in the small-children-at-home phase of life)? Kids World. And yes, it is just as awesome as it sounds. This “club within a club” is a place specially designed for children from infants to pre-teens with an array of age-specific activities, amenities, fitness, and entertainment. The club’s unique video camera coverage allows parents to “check-in” on their youngsters from monitors conveniently located throughout the club.
Orange County’s premier resort-style gym
I was chatting with a friend the other day about gyms. He was bemoaning the era of headphones: AirPods, Beats, you name it. I laughed at first because it seemed like such a funny complaint: I don’t like gyms because people wear headphones. But then it dawned on me as he continued to talk, that he was really referring to the missed sense of community he used to get when he went to the gym. Or, as he calls it still - the club. The Club isn’t gone, however. Not by a long shot. That place you could go to achieve your fitness goals or simply be well among a group of other like-minded folks? It still exists, in Aliso Viejo at ClubSport - Orange County’s premier fitness resort-style gym where “you’re more than a member, you’re a member of our family.” And the experience here is even more amazing than ever.
By Jody Robinson
Group fitness classes similar to the ones you may enjoy at boutique studios can be found at ClubSport Aliso Viejo with over 75 weekly instructor-guided class options such as boxing, cycling, Pilates, yoga, Zumba, barre, aquatics, and the increasingly popular HIIT workouts using water rowers, striders, and strength-training equipment. And don’t forget the wide range of court sports including racquetball, squash, basketball, and three newly added indoor pickleball courts.
The newly added 5,000-square-foot Edge Performance Training space features open turf outfitted with weighted sleds, kettlebells, power racks, TRX, and more.
Relaxation more your speed for the day? Book a massage or facial treatment at the luxurious R Spa. A full-service restaurant, the vibrant Citrus Fresh Grill & Market serves up “naturally delicious” new world cuisine, snacks,
If you have no idea where to begin when it comes to your fitness and nutrition goals, ClubSport Aliso Viejo has that covered, too! There is a wide range of options for personal training, an immersive 8-week weight loss program called Rev32, nutritious takehome meals, and accessible advice from on-site professionals that make it easy to stay accountable to yourself.
There is literally something for everyone. Whether it be relaxation or rejuvenation you’re looking for, or to get super sweaty alongside your Boot Camp compadres, the Club hasn’t actually gone anywhere. It’s simply gotten better. As for the Air-Pods? You can take ‘em or leave ‘em.
City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center Is Now Open
The Irvine cancer center is home to a team of cancer-fighting physician-scientists assembled from across the country
City of Hope has opened the most advanced comprehensive cancer center in Orange County, ushering in a new era of hope for people with cancer.
At City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center, a team of some of the world’s most acclaimed physician-scientists with expertise in lung, breast, gastrointestinal, gynecological, genitourinary, blood cancers and more — leads next-level cancer treatment and research.
Patients receive fully integrated, multidisciplinary cancer care — from prevention through survivorship — in one convenient location where every physician and staff member is solely focused on treating and curing cancer.
“With the opening of City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center, we are delivering on our promise to the people of Orange County and changing cancer care for our family, friends and neighbors,”
said Annette M. Walker, president, City of Hope Orange County. “Four years ago, we pledged to bring the most advanced cancer care to Orange County, home to 3.2 million people. Hope is truly here in Orange County.”
Distinguishing clinical services include:
• Acclaimed cancer expertise: Access to City of Hope’s 575 physicians and more than 1,000 researchers and scientists who only focus on cancer.
• Lifesaving clinical trials: Access to nearly 1,000 innovative Phase 1-3 clinical trials being conducted at City of Hope each year — more cancer-focused clinical trials than anywhere in the area.
• Breakthrough treatments: Targeted immunotherapies, including CAR T cell therapy, as well as bone marrow transplants, robotic minimally invasive surgeries and MRIguided radiation oncology.
• Leading-edge technology: The latest and most comprehensive suite of market-leading radiology, interventional radiology and radiation oncology equipment.
• Integrative medicine: A trailblazing integrative medicine program combining the best of Western medicine and evidence-based complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, massage and meditation.
The outpatient cancer center will be seamlessly connected to Orange County’s only specialty cancer hospital exclusively focused on treating and curing cancer, opening in 2025.
City of Hope, one of only 52 National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers in the country, is answering the call to extend its personalized care, outstanding research and lifesaving treatments closer to home. Despite its reputation for healthy living, Orange County is not immune to the national 1 in 3 statistic for cancer incidence. Nearly 20% of Orange County residents have left
the area for advanced cancer care, many traveling up to two hours each way to City of Hope in Duarte.
BUILT FOR AND WITH THE COMMUNITY
City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center was designed with input from more than 500 patients, their families and community members. Every feature of the cancer center — from the design of its gathering spaces to its lighting, its wall color, even its artwork selection — was intentionally chosen to promote healing and comfort and ensure patients and their families have the best care experience.
Features include:
• 67 spacious exam and treatment rooms and 15 consultation rooms
• An infusion center designed around patient preferences with 43 infusion bays and 10 private infusion treatment rooms with panoramic views of the Saddleback mountains.
• Hope Boutique, a full-service salon and specialty shopping experience with oncology-trained cosmetologists.
• A retail and specialty pharmacy that dispenses traditional, specialty, and over-the-counter medications, alleviating the travel burden on patients for their medication needs.
• A full range of state-of-the-art laboratory services in one location, making it convenient for patients to get routine blood draws.
• Feng Shui design, art galleries, a healing garden, dedicated space for family members to gather or work, and programs to care for the whole patient — mind, body, and spirit.
“I've been waiting for this day ever since City of Hope announced its plans for an Orange County campus. Whenever I connect with people navigating a cancer diagnosis, my first piece of advice is always to find a cancer-specific research center for the most advanced care. Now, right here in our community, people with cancer have the highly specialized and compassionate care they need — all in one place,” says Leslie Bruce Amin, a grateful patient.
City of Hope Orange County’s cancer care network currently includes four regional clinics — two in Newport Beach, one in Huntington Beach and one in Irvine. The cancer center, the regional clinics and the planned hospital will create Orange County’s largest network dedicated exclusively to cancer treatment and cures.
To make an appointment, call 888-333 HOPE (4673). For more information, visit, CityofHope.org/OC.
How to Recognize Elder Financial and Physical Abuse presents
Part One
EBy Michael Flammer, Chief Compliance Officer for Transition Care Telemetry
lder abuse is a shockingly prevalent problem that robs seniors of their security, dignity and in some instances – can cost them their lives.
According to the National Elder Mistreatment Study, one in 10 older adults experience abuse or mistreatment. Elder abuse includes physical harm) the majority of which involves caregivers) and financial exploitation or the misuse or withholding of an older adult’s resources by another (mostly inflicted by family members). In this country alone, more than 500,000 cases of elder abuse are reported to authorities –and millions more go unreported.
Elders who have been abused have a three times higher risk of premature death when compared to those who have not been mistreated. Recent studies show that nearly half of those with dementia experienced abuse or neglect and that violence occurs at disproportionately much higher rates among adults with disabilities.
As seniors experience more physical or mental challenges or become increasingly frail, they are less able to take care of themselves, creating an opportunity for unscrupulous individuals to take advantage of them. The abuse often takes place where the senior lives and abusers can be the senior’s adult children, a spouse or partner or caregivers hired to care for them. In the case of the latter, it is vital to work with an agency that carefully screens its employees, conducting background checks, drug testing and provides at a minimum a Certified Home Care Aide.
The onset of the Pandemic exposed years of mismanaged care, neglect and abuse in the nursing homes, residential boarding care and other care facilities. Many of these facilities continue to exhibit high rates of abuse from its caregivers but thanks to regulatory agencies, many more now maintain a zero-tolerance policy.
While the signs of physical abuse can be readily evident (i.e. bruises, pressure marks, abrasions and burns), financial exploitation is often more difficult to recognize. But there are a number of red flags to look for including situations whereby a caregiver (family member or hired):
• isolates the senior from speaking to family members or third parties
• develops a friendship or romantic relationship with the senior, or his or her family members in order to gain trust and then asks for money to help him/her out of a financial situation or emergency
• requests for a power of attorney for real or titled property or the adding their name to checking/savings accounts, or misusing credit cards
• obtains PIN numbers for the ATM or credit cards or passwords to access online financial accounts
• asks for loans or borrows cash, etc., or charges cash for special services under threat of physical abuse
• steal cash, income checks, personal items or household goods
If you suspect physical abuse, call 911 or if not an emergency situation, contact California Adult Protective Services at (833) 401-0932 and enter your zip code.
Michael Flammer is the Chief Compliance Officer for Transition Care Telemetry, Inc. (dba TCT Health), a home health, home care agency and hospice care agency. With over 50 years of combined clinical experience, TCT is owned and operated by experienced and professional medical staff committed to providing quality skilled healthcare services at home or your care facility. If you suspect anyone being abused, call Michael directly at (833) TCT-HEAL or (949) 689-0426.
SPOTTING THE SIGNS OF ELDER ABUSE
Watch for these signs of abuse:
Seems depressed, confused, or withdrawn Isolated from friends and family
Has unexplained bruises, burns, or scars
Appears dirty, underfed, dehydrated, over- or undermedicated, or not receiving needed care for medical problems
Has bed sores or other preventable conditions
Abuse can happen to any older person, by a loved one, a hired caregiver, or a stranger. Abuse can happen at home, at a relative’s home, or
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.
Schedule a tour of our community. Call 949-485-2022 or visit SerraSol.com
Insurance 101 Services
Your Medicare Plan
Annual
Notice of Change
If you’re currently on Medicare this applies to you if you have a Medicare drug plan or if you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan (HMO or PPO). This does NOT apply to your Medicare Supplement plans, such as Plan F, G, N etc.
The Annual Notice of Change is a document you receive showing if your Medicare plan made changes for the upcoming year. Some changes that you would see on your ANOC are increases or decreases in your monthly premium, changes to your co-pays, deductibles and the plan’s drug formulary.
An ANOC will list 2 columns, one is what your benefit is for the current year, the other column will show what it will change to in the new year.
The biggest offender of changes prompting people to make a change to their current coverage is the “Stand Alone Medicare RX plans” that people who use Medicare as their primary insurance coupled with a Medicare supplement plan have. These plans seem to always be giving an increase to the deductible, premium and co-pay amounts. Unfortunately knowing how to go about finding the right Medicare drug plan on their own isn’t something most Medicare beneficiaries know how to do.
The good news is that I do! So, if you get surprised by your ANOC this Fall, feel free to reach out to me, I’d be happy to help you.
|
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.
By Stephanie Frisch
In the Medicare Insurance world, we refer to it as an “ANOC” (we love using acronyms, unfortunately we’re just about the only ones that know what they mean).
If you’re currently on Medicare this applies to you if you have a Medicare drug plan or if you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan (HMO or PPO). This does NOT apply to your Medicare Supplement plans, such as Plan F, G, N etc.
Your Medicare Plan Annual Notice of Change ANOC
The Annual Notice of Change is a document you receive in the mail (or online if you signed up for that) that explains the changes that your Medicare plan may have made for the upcoming year. Some changes that you would see on your ANOC are increases or decreases in your monthly premium, changes to your co-pays, deductibles, the annual out of pocket maximum and the plan’s drug formulary. (The prescription drugs that the plan gives you access to at a set copay or co-insurance amount)
You will receive your Annual Notice of Change every year around the end of September. It’s not a fancy envelope with bright red letters reading, “Open Me, I’m Important to Read” rather it’s generally printed on an inexpensive paper resembling a newspaper, and it usually reads and looks like a pamphlet. All plans have some type of change for the upcoming year. An ANOC will list 2 columns, one is what your benefit is for the current year, the other column will show what it will change to in the new year. Sometimes the change is good; a lower premium, deductible, co-pay or maximum out of pocket known as a MOOP (see, there’s another acronym for you!)
What you want to make sure of is that you are aware and informed when
the change is not good news; a higher deductible, higher co-pays or premium or MOOP. At that point, you can decide if it’s going to affect you enough to want to look at making a change to your coverage for the new year.
In the Medicare Advantage plan world, the HMO plans seem to have positive changes for the upcoming year, more value-added benefits at no additional cost to the consumer.
The biggest offender of changes prompting people to look elsewhere is the “Stand Alone Medicare RX
plans” that people who use Medicare as their primary insurance coupled with a Medicare supplement plan pay for. These plans seem to always be giving an increase to their deductible, premium and co-pay amounts. Unfortunately knowing how to go about finding the right Medicare drug plan on their own isn’t something most Medicare beneficiaries know how to do.
The good news is that I do! So, if you get surprised by your ANOC this Fall, feel free to reach out to me, I’d be happy to help you.
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
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.
By Jody Robinson
I’ve always had a case of wanderlust and my husband, Tim, was a seasoned traveler long before I met him, so we’ll use any excuse to explore new environs or revisit favorite vacation destinations. We love traveling so much that we have over the years made a conscious effort to impart in our children a similar desire to trek across the country or traipse around the globe.
In the 15 years since our son was born, we’ve happily traveled far and wide whether for weekend stay-cations within easy driving distance or longer trips that involved a fair number of planes, trains and automobiles. We even embarked on an ambitious plan to visit all 50 states as a family by the time he graduates high school (we have 15 more to go). But what we haven’t done in all that time is leave the kids home for a few adults-only days away - mostly because they were either too little or because we were
actively crossing states off the list together.
But as summer was winding down and our now-teenagers were gearing back up for school, my husband and I decided to head south for a sans-kids sojourn to Casa Velas in Puerta Vallarta.
Our idea of a refuge for relaxation involves gourmet food, fine wine,
a good book, a sun-soaked beach, snorkeling, swimming, sumptuous spa treatments and ... nowhere particular to be at any specific time. Other guests we met on property said they prefer active daytime endeavors like playing tennis and golf (Casa Velas is nestled in an upscale residential neighborhood overlooking Marina Vallarta, one of the region’s best courses). Luckily
for all of us, this gorgeous oceanside oasis offers all of the above and then some. Casa Velas’ specialty? An unforgettable, all-inclusive, adults-only resort experience crafted to your specific desires and tastes.
COASTAL LUXURY
We already felt worlds away upon arrival - the entrance and lobby reminiscent of a sprawling Spanish hacienda opens out onto canopied gardens characterized by abundant, colorful flora and fauna, picturesque reflecting pools, koi ponds, towering palms, an array of gorgeous fountains and arched terraces.
A luxury spa and salon, world-class championship golf, access to the beautiful Táu Beach Club, and decadent suites furnished with traditional Mexican charm are just a few of the reasons Casa Velas is the top-rated all-inclusive and one of the most celebrated all-inclusives in Puerto Vallarta. Steps from the beach and minutes from downtown, this boutique hotel boasts an estate-like ambiance amidst lush tropical gardens where peacocks roam.
The tranquil coastal ambiance carries through to each of its villa-style accommodations (think private immersion pools, jacuzzi hot tubs, scenic golf course and garden views). Choose from 80 plush suites, each exquisitely furnished and adorned with textures and colors inspired by traditional Mexican design, many including pieces by acclaimed Mexican sculptor Sergio Bustamente.
SWIM, SIP, SPLURGE
Dining is a highlight of Casa Velas with a choice of Emiliano Restaurant, and Táu Beach Club (with complimentary transportation to and from Casa Velas) for enjoying the famous Mexican Pacific sunsets in all their glory, and the four specialty restaurants of the nearby Five Diamond-rated sister resort Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit.
inspiration from each of the three on-site award-winning restaurants Frida (Mexican), Piaf (French) and Lucca (Italian), features a dynamic tasting menu paired with tequila, martini and fine wine, respectively. Prefer authentic street food? Emiliano’s also serves up tantalizing takes on favorites found in Mexico’s colorful markets in diverse regions of the country.
For my part, lounging by the stunning free-form, cobalt-blue pool for the better part of each afternoon translated to the copious consumption of a trio of delicious ceviche offerings - shrimp (with tomato, onion, cucumber, coriander and serrano chili), white fish or tuna tartare with avocado, sesame oil and ponzu sauce - on the Aqua
Casually elegant, the property’s signature award-winning AAA Four-Diamond restaurant, Emiliano showcases gourmet Mexican cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner in an intimate and relaxed setting of your choice indoors or on the romantic outdoor terrace surrounded by koi ponds.
I’m the seafood aficionado in our family while my husband leans more toward beef and chicken entrees so we were delighted to discover a plethora of gourmet options in which to partake. My pastor-style salmon accompanied with pineapple puree and avocado mousse was simply divine, as
was his grilled-to-perfection ribeye with baked potato and sauteed asparagus. Other indulgent dishes range from a Diabla-style octopus, shrimp served with asparagus risotto and the Veracruz-style catch of the day to the flavorful, falling-off-the-bone tender barbecue pork ribs.
In addition to its regular menu, Emiliano rotates through customized fivecourse offerings - a different one each night - masterminded by the head chefs at Casa Velas’s sister property Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. Drawing
Bar menu. Tim says he still daydreams about the chicken burrito that he claims is the best he’s ever tasted with gourmet flavor unlike any preparation he’s sampled before.
An exclusive retreat on the ocean’s edge, Tau Beach Club serves a refreshing menu of spirited cocktails. Enjoy beachfront dining on the charming covered terrace and take in beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. During the day, guests can settle into Bali beds or sun loungers and nosh
on sushi to their heart’s content. In the evenings, Táu Beach Club transforms into the perfect place for a romantic sunset dinner at The Ocean Club defined by an innovative menu of Mexican-inspired and Asian cuisine - my personal culinary preferences. The elevated gourmet food and beverage program extends to its extensive list of refreshing craft cocktails, fine wine and premium liquors at the restaurant, 24/7 in suite or served poolside in your own personal cabana or at the swim-up palapa Aqua Bar. Also included are events like wine pairings, tequila, mescal and martini tastingswhich gives guests an opportunity to get acquainted with one another.
RELAX + REVITALIZE
Needless to say - given the days (and nights) of (over) indulgence, I was especially thankful for the professionally equipped fitness center - complete with an array of cardio and weight machines - and the opportunity to expend a few extra calories. But for the height of relaxation, the full-service ABJA Spa was a most desired destination.
Featuring spa treatments and therapies inspired by local Mexican tradition and international wellness trends, guests can choose from signature treatments, therapeutic massages, beauty services, and holistic rituals using herbs and ingredients harvested in Casa Velas’ own botanical garden and performed by experienced spa specialists who work with each guest to customize services to their specific needs whether the goal is to relieve stress or revitalize your soul.
All of the aforementioned luxurious accommodation, amenity-rich ambiance, epicurean ex-
ploits and stunning scenery aside, I would be seriously amiss if I neglected to mention the stellar personalized service extended by every member of the staff here. From check in to departure, each member of the Casa Velas team is clearly dedicated to ensuring a warm, wonderful experience for each of its guests. If you are searching for an immersive, relaxing retreat in the most tranquil of settings and distinguished by exemplary, over-the-top service, trust me ... you need look no further than Casa Velas, Puerta Vallarta.
www.HotelCasaVelas.com
OC'S PREMIER CONCERT VENUE
SEPTEMBER
SEPT 1 TAB BENOIT with special guest JD SIMO
SEPT 2 THE FABULOUS THUNDERBIRDS
SEPT 3 RED NOT CHILI PEPPERS
SEPT 4 FAN HALEN (Tribute to Van Halen)
SEPT 8 THE SAMPLES
SEPT 9 YYNOT (A Tribute to RUSH)
SEPT 10 IDOL X WITH HEART OF BLONDE AND CONTENDERS
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 25 CHRISTOPHER CROSS
SEPT 27 MICHAEL SHENKER plus ERIC MARTIN OF MR. BIG
SEPT 30 LEONID & FRIENDS (A Tribute to Chicago)
OCTOBER
OCT 1 (From Vanderpump Rules) TOM SANDOVAL & THE MOST EXTRAS
OCT 2 PLAIN WHITE T’s
OCT 6 THE SPINNERS
OCT 7 ACCEPT - TOO MEAN TO DIE TOUR
OCT 8 CASH’D OUT - THE NEXT BEST THING TO JOHNNY CASH
OCT 12 LEONID & FRIENDS (A Tribute to Chicago)
OCT 14 BILLY VERA & THE BEATERS
OCT 15 MICK ADAMS & THE STONES
OCT 19 TODD SNIDER with special guest RYAN MONTBLEAU
OCT 20 SOPHIE B HAWKINS
OCT 21 OINGO BOINGO FORMER MEMBERS
OCT 22 OINGO BOINGO FORMER MEMBERS
OCT 23 JOURNEYMAN (A Tribute to Eric Clapton)
OCT 27 CANDLEBOX
OCT 28 BUCKCHERRY
OCT 29 LARRY CARLTON FAREWELL WORLD TOUR 33157 Camino Capistrano | San Juan Capistrano coachhouseconcerthall @coach_house www.TheCoachHouse.com
SEPTEMBER 13TH
COREY FELDMAN
Famed musician and actor Corey Feldman has announced the Love Retours (22 + A Few In 22) concert tour, his first US tour in five years. Featuring an all-new band, Feldman is hitting the road in support of his new album.
SEPTEMBER 18TH
BENISE - SPANISH NIGHTS
The Emmy award winning show returns with a new production Spanish Nights - Featuring the passion and grace of Flamenco combined with fiery Spanish guitar. Backed by a stage full of musicians and elaborately choreographed dancers, Benise takes the audience on a musical journey through Spanish Flamenco, Cuban Salsa, Brazilian Samba, Parisian Waltz, exotic drumming, and more!
SEPTEMBER 21ST
ERIC GALES
Eric Gales is a blues firebrand. Over 30 years and 18 albums, his passion for the music and his boundless desire to keep it vital has never waned, even when his own light dimmed due to his substance struggles. Throughout it all, he continued to reinvigorate the art form with personal revelation in his lyrics and bold stylistic twists in his guitar playing and songwriting.
OCTOBER 1ST
TOM SANDOVAL & THE MOST EXTRAS
Tom Sandoval & The Most Extras is the latest musical passion project of actor, model, and restaurateur, Tom Sandoval. For 10 seasons, Tom has starred on the hit Bravo reality series, Vanderpump Rules. Tom has gathered an eclectic group of fun, sing-a-long cover songs that you can’t help but dance to.
33157
9/17 JOHN MARK McMILLAN
9/10
10/6 THE SPINNERS
9/15 COCO MONTOYA
10/2 PLAIN WHITE T’S
9/8 THE SAMPLES
CFR Patio - Outdoor Furniture Restoration
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/weav-
ing 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 im-
pressed 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.”
Co-owners Collin (L) and Brian Lee
• CUSTOM SHUTTERS
• WOVEN WOODS
• WOOD BLINDS
• FAUX WOODS
• CELLULAR SHADES
•
• ROLLER SHADES
•
South Coast Shutter and Shades
Operating honestly and with integrity has served as the foundation for the continued success of the Laguna Niguel-based South Coast Shutter and Shades for over 32 years. Owners Tom and Donna Schuster launched their own company after realizing that “on our own we would be able to offer quality products in an honest environment to our customers, as well as servicing the products we sell.”
Specializing in custom shutters, blinds (mini, faux, wood, vertical), cellular shades, woven woods, plantation and security shutters and everything in between, Tom and Donna offer free in-home consultations for design as well as measuring, they always include free professional installation and prefer to bring all of the samples to each client’s home to go over the assorted styles and many color options to suit each home’s interior and its homeowner’s unique lifestyle.
“We listen to you and then incorporate your ideas with ours to design your custom shutters, blinds or shades,” says Tom. “Our portfolios and samples are very extensive, so you will be able to envision how your windows are going to look when complete."
Tom and Donna, credit their success to date to the quality of customer service they and their team give their customers, which in turn creates a wonderful repeat and referral business. “Although there may be providers of similar products, there is no one that can match our superior customer service – from showing up on time, making precise measurements and flawless installations - and with a professional ‘can do’ attitude,” says Donna.
Tom adds that “our pricing with unbeatable discounts, sales support and the fact that we offer our customers an in-house design team at no additional charge is the first step in setting us apart from our competition. I am proud to say that we have built a reputation in the business for having the highest quality, best beauty, fit and finish and value available. All of our products come with a lifetime warranty.”
A 5-Star Yelp rated company, South Coast Shutter and Shades boasts scores of glowing testimonials online, including Debora R of Laguna Niguel who writes "Donna and Tom are amazing! Great products, great prices, great service.I've used them twice for two different businesses and I could not be happier. Donna makes suggestions based on what I tell her
my needs are and she has been spot on with her recommendations. Installations by Tom are quick and easy. Highly recommended!"
Another reviewer, Doug W. of Mission Viejo posted that "From the first call, I knew I was dealing with a reputable, experienced, HONEST company. Donna and Tom are absolute PROS and obviously take pride in their work … Their price was very competitive. Also, what they quote is what you pay - keep that in mind when talking to the "other guys" whose price seems to go up and up. All appointments including install were FAST. The installation was flawless. I had a question later that evening about my motorized shades and they called me back IMMEDIATELY. My impression is that I could call them 5 or 10 years from now and they would just as helpful."
SOUTH COAST SHUTTER AND SHADES
ReelTime has the
install team out there. They know their products and do amazing work. -Joanne Dever
“
ReelTime
Connecting Your Lifestyle and Technology
Specializing in home technology, ReelTime provides a complete range of custom services for audio/video, hifi, home automation, theater systems, media rooms, lighting & shades, custom cabinetry, surveillance, and outdoor living. We offer expert sales, service, design, and installation in both new construction & existing residences. Our design team integrates the best components into an easy-to-use system that you will fall in love with.
The Tony Award-Winning Best Musical
Based on the 20th Century Fox Motion Picture by Baz Luhrmann
PCosta Mesa Premiere Engagement at Segerstrom Center for the Arts Segerstrom Hall
| November 9 – 27
roducers Carmen Pavlovic, Bill Damaschke and Gerry Ryan are pleased to announce the Costa Mesa premiere of the Tony Award-winning Best Musical Moulin Rouge! The Musical at Segerstrom Center for the Arts for a limited three-week engagement.
Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eye-popping excess, of glitz, grandeur and glory! A world where Bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment. Pop the champagne and prepare for the spectacular … Welcome to Moulin Rouge! The Musical
Baz Luhrmann’s iconic film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza. Moulin Rouge! The Musical is a theatrical celebration of Truth, Beauty, Freedom, and - above all - Love. Moulin Rouge! The Musicalis more than a musical; it is a state of mind.
Tickets are available online at SCFTA.org, at the Box Office at 600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa, or by calling (714) 556-2787.
ENDING THE CYCLE OF HOMELESSNESS
BE A GENERATIONAL DISRUPTOR OF HOMELESSNESS: #ForTheKids
• 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
Island Time, All the Time
BY JODY ROBINSON
I love fall. Specifically, the idea of fall you get from the movies. Cozy blankets, cowl neck sweaters, jack o’ lanterns glowing on a porch in twilight. But I also dearly love fall in Southern California, which happens to genuinely feel like summer in most other places. Sure, the sun strikes at a slightly lower angle, and evenings cool off quick. But if you’re looking for the perfect time of year to hit the beach in San Diego, it’s when everyone’s mind turns to pumpkin spice and back-to-school.
Don’t get me wrong, San Diego doesn’t miss year-round. Great weather is tops the list of requirements for the laid-back surf and sun mecca of the Golden State. But where else can you get a gorgeous swell steps from a newly renovated bayfront room or suite after the summer crowds head back home? With the sparkling shores of Mission Bay as its backyard and situated across the street from the Pacific Ocean, the Catamaran Resort Hotel is unrivaled in both location and amenity.
A tropical hideaway in San Diego’s Pacific Beach community, the
Polynesian-themed resort offers casual elegance in an ambiance defined by swaying palm trees, lush vegetation, tiki torches, koi ponds, waterfalls, and a bevy of exotic birds that like to strike up conversations with guests.
Each of the resort’s 310 beautifully appointed suites, studios and hotel rooms reflect the upscale coastal lifestyle that is synonymous with Southern California - each with its own balcony or patio with breathtaking views of Mission Bay, the Pacific Beach neighborhood and coastline or the property’s gorgeous tropical gardens.
Each of the resort’s 310 beautifully appointed suites, studios and hotel rooms reflect the upscale
coastal lifestyle that is synonymous with Southern California - each with its own balcony or patio with breathtaking views of Mission Bay, the Pacific Beach neighborhood and coastline or the property’s gorgeous tropical gardens.
Destination dining
An open-air, casually elegant bayside eatery, the resort’s signature Oceana Coastal Kitchen dishes up equal parts inventive, seafoodcentric California cuisine and sweeping waterfront views. Guests can opt to dine indoors or select a table on the terrace, but either way you’ll be hard pressed to think of a more perfect pairing: inventive, delicious culinary creations against such a beautiful backdrop.
just the right amount of tang, chock full of flavor
while the crudo is my new favorite starter ever made with fresh sliced hamachi, white miso, micro-cilantro and jalapeno.
The menu highlights the purity and flavor of California local produce and a commitment to sustainable ingredients in both its culinary offerings and the regional wines and brews to enhance your meal. While the menu focuses on ocean-inspired fare (which is great for me as the “seafoodie” in our family), there are plenty of choices for my meat-andpotatoes husband as well.
A cold bar with sushi options, small bites and main dishes including the freshest seafood from the coast of Baja and the Pacific are right up my alley - the only downside was in having to decide between the shrimp ceviche or the hamachi crudo appetizers. In the end, my husband reminded me that we were on vacation and as such, I could indulge in both. The ceviche with jalapenolime marinade was marvelous with
The perfectly prepared Harris Ranch ribeye arrived accompanied by chimichurri, blistered tomato, green beans and yucca fries and the crisped skin ocean trout with herbed butter and grilled asparagus was a delicious dish I haven’t seen on many menus.
Outdoor endeavors
Since Action Sport Rentals (actionsportrentals.com) has two on-site locations at the Catamaran with one right at the water’s edge, it couldn’t be easier to get outside and explore scenic Mission Bay by bike, boat or board. They offer powerboat and sailboat rentals,
standup paddleboards, surf and body boards, bike and surrey rentals and kayaks - both single and tandem - that our family took full advantage
of. The kids each wanted to navigate the calm waters of Mission Bay without assistance, so they climbed into single kayaks while I coerced my husband into a tandem so I could have an easier time of it with the option to paddle ... or not ... as we leisurely tooled around the bay.
Other family-friendly activities? Book a private bonfire on property and enjoy some post-surf s’mores, or take a sunset cruise on the Bahia Belle. Featuring San Diego’s only beachfront spa alongside a pool, hot tub, and Catamaran’s unique Bird Encounter, there is enough entertainment on site to fire you up, simmer down, and everything in between. Plenty of reasons to love fall in California even more.
Catamaran Resort Hotel 3999 Mission Boulevard San Diego (858) 488-1081 CatamaranResortHotel.com
Park Hyatt Aviara
An Unforgettable 5-STAR LUXURY COASTAL ESCAPE
By Jody Robinson
I’m not going to lie. I just tried mezcal for the first time this year. It reminded me of bonfires on camping trips with family friends. The second sip was akin to the Santa Ana winds that blow through around Halloween each year: mysterious, moody. I’ve always had a fondness for fall in Southern California - it can certainly be hot and blustery for a few days, but it's also the best beach weather we get all year.
In San Diego County, cities like Cardiff-by-the-Sea and Carlsbad absolutely shine. The days are barely shorter than high summer, but all of the tourists are back at school or work, far from the verdant links, rugged trails, and luxurious accommodations of the Park Hyatt Aviara.
Tucked away on 200 lush, private acres in Carlsbad, this AAA Five-Diamond and Forbes Five-Star luxury
resort is ideally located within easy reach of all of San Diego's offerings, but feels like a private, secluded retreat. While there are abundant attractions off site, there are so many world-class opportunities for recreation and relaxation on property that our family saw no reason to leave on recent weekend stay-cation.
Fresh from a $50 million resort-wide transformation, guests are transported from the moment they step into the gorgeous Mediterranean-style lobby with its open-air design. A oneof-a-kind sculpted chandelier floating down from the ceiling showcases the migration of birds taking refuge in the neighboring Batiquitos Lagoon. A coastal wetland between the glittering Pacific Coast and the Park Hyatt, Batiquitos offers tremendous bird-watching opportunities if you just can’t figure out what to do amidst the multitude of offerings on site.
The luxury coastal-chic accommodations here feature private balconies, stylish artwork, deep marble baths, teak furnishing, uber-comfortable beds and fabulous courtyard, lagoon, golf course or pool views.
With regard to the latter, our kids couldn't wait to spend the afternoon upon arrival at the Splash Pool Deck with its brand-new two-story waterslide (for swimmers 4-feet tall and above), zero-grade entry and splash pad. My husband and I were equally excited to watch them frolic, while sipping a craft cocktail happily ensconced in one of the spacious private cabanas.
From our vantage point on the Ocean View Pool Deck, we reviewed our options. Indulge in a massage or body treatment in the lavish 15,000-squarefoot Aviara Spa? Hit the links at the only Arnold Palmer signature designed golf course in coastal California? Try our hand at one of six lit tennis courts (including two Har-Tru clay courts) set against a backdrop of lush botanicals and greenery?
A given was to embark on a locally inspired culinary adventure (or two). Happy hour at Pacific Point Restaurant is defined by craft cocktails, sushi and spectacular sunsets.
For a fine dining experience in the newest of Park Aviara's signature restaurants, Ponto Lago serves up locally sourced coastal cuisine in a refined modern setting. An added attraction for a behind-the-scenes glimpse of where the magic happens? A show kitchen where you can watch the restaurant team in action bringing Chef's creations to center stage.
I fancy myself a fledgling foodie so I was particularly thrilled to learn of the Chef's Corner - a multi-sensory culinary offering where our epicurean journey began with a phone call from Chef. He asked about our dining desires and flavor preferences before crafting a personalized menu that proved to be unbelievably decadent and delicious. He asked about our dining desires and flavor preferences before crafting a personalized menu that proved to be unbelievably decadent and delicious.
suggestion. Local albacore was enhanced with farm fresh melons, watermelon aguachile and speck ham while the octopus taco with saffron potato crema pickled red onions (for me) and the pork belly taco paired with chiccarones, salsa macha and serrano crema (for Tim) were equally flavorful options. Other courses incorporated perfectly grilled ribeye with mole negro and charred onions, wood-fired salmon and roasted duck.
By itself, Ponto Lago is an incredibly refined setting for any of their Bajainspired dishes, or craft cocktails. But a tequila or mezcal pairing is sure to set things into a different orbit alongside Chef’s Corner. Explore over 50 different tequila and mezcal selections - indulge in a sweet. floralinspired agave from the Highlands of Jalisco or savor in the spicy, earthy and herbaceous flavors produced in the Lowlands. You might not find the flavors of a bonfire, sharp and smoky, but you’ll certainly have a taste for fall in San Diego for years to come.
Chef de Cuisine Chris Carriker crafted a series of culinary creations, each paired with the perfect wine accompaniment per our server Udi’s Park
Chef's Corner
Ponto Lago
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.
How Stratford’s Engineering Curriculum Takes Students to the Next Level in STEM/STEAM Education
Engineering, the all-important “E” in STEM and STEAM education – in this new age of technology, a robust engineering curriculum is more essential than ever. At Stratford School, our engineering curriculum is designed to prepare students to meet the unique challenges of the future armed with a solid engineering foundation from which they can build upon, whether they choose to continue their studies in any of the many engineering specialties that exist today or use those critical engineering principles to improve systems and solve problems in any field they decide to go into.
Engineers develop new technologies or improve existing ones to increase their benefits, decrease known risks, and meet societal demands. They ask questions, define problems, plan, investigate, construct explanations, and design solutions. Children are naturally curious: they are eager to learn the “how and why” of everything: from “why does a beaver build a dam” to “how does a windmill work?” We encourage our curious and budding engineers of the
future to understand the answers to these questions through hands-on engineering projects embedded in our Preschool to High School science and engineering curriculum. Critical thinking, innovation, collaboration, and communication skills are intricately woven into the topics that students learn in their Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) aligned science curriculum.
STARTING ENGINEERING CONCEPTS EARLY
Early learners – Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten students – love working with their hands! You can hear the exciting sounds and playful investigations in the classrooms during a science unit on-ramps and pathways. What might seem like simple play is actually quite complex, as children tackle big ideas around energy, force, and motion. After exploring the relationship between materials, the learning culminates in a design challenge: build a system that a small marble can move through. Our early engineers eagerly build, test, and try again until they achieve success together. In addition to feeling a sense of accomplishment, the children
begin to understand how mistakes are opportunities to learn…a lesson for a lifetime!
ENGINEERING = PROBLEM SOLVING
After understanding the science behind energy transfers through handson activities, Elementary students design a device that transforms energy to solve a problem. For example, what sort of device can be developed that can heat food in case of a power outage, or what device can be helpful for a person with auditory challenges to know when there is someone at the door, and the doorbell cannot be heard? Students follow the iterative design process and collaboratively engineer a solution to a problem they might encounter in everyday life.
DESIGNING SOLUTIONS FOR THE FUTURE IN MIDDLE SCHOOL
In addition to being integrated into the science curriculum, engineering is also offered as a choice elective in grades seventh to eighth at Stratford Middle School. Students who take Engineering, design a sustainable futuristic city using engineering design principles and participate in the FutureCity Competition every year. Our students have consistently demonstrated innovative thinking in creating physical models of the city using mainly recycled materials. Stratford teams have placed in the top five positions in the past several years. This year’s FutureCity theme was to build a waste-free city based on the principles of a circular economy. Stratford students secured the first position in the regional competition and moved on to the national level. Students worked hard to create a future city that produces zero waste, can accommodate any age or ethnicity, and can ensure the comfort, safety, and convenience of its residents. A summary of the numerous components that make their city unique include the water filtration system, which filters water to be reused, the stacked agriculture farms that mimic natural environments and minimize space use, solar panels, wind turbines, and other examples of renewable energy.
Along with designing cities using the engineering design process, students are also exposed to other facets of engineering like bioengineering and structural engineering in the elective. In bioengineering, students design innovative human shelters inspired and informed by animal structures. After researching the natural attributes of different animal homes and brainstorming ideas, students build small prototypes of the shelters.
“Scientists study the world as it is; engineers create the world that has never been.”
– Theodore von Karman, Hungarian-American mathematician, aerospace engineer, and physicist
To understand the different aspects of civil and mechanical engineering, students work on Tech challenges hosted by the Tech Interactive Museum. The challenges often involve designing and building solutions that have practical applications in real-life. One of the students’ projects is “Ultimate Upcycle,” where they have to repurpose used cardboards to construct a useful life-size device of their choice.
NEXT LEVEL ENGINEERING IN HIGH SCHOOL
Continuing to build on skills developed in Preschool, Elementary, and Middle School, Stratford Preparatory High School, opening this fall, has course offerings that will take our students to the next level and engage with the science and engineering of Cleantech and Biotech, directly from within the physics and biology courses.
Our intentional focus on Cleantech instills in students a positive impetus and outlook toward managing energy consumption, limiting environmental degradation, and restoring balance in the earth’s various cycles and systems. In Cleantech, students will be involved in theory, research, and laboratory work related to Photovoltaics, Wind, Hydro, and Tidal-wave energy generation. Students will design, build, and test scaled models of such renewable-resource-based power generation systems and conduct feasibility studies of large-scale deployment and adoption of such technologies.
The focus on Biotech is intended to give students the opportunity to engage early with cutting-edge Life Science applications, their manipulative techniques, and their powerful possibilities. As well, provide a thorough examination of its capacity to alter, enhance and transform cellular and molecular-level functioning, and understand its implications for the future of earth’s biological systems, including human ‘evolution.’
At Stratford, in addition to developing the skills of creativity, curiosity, and perseverance through the engineering design process, our students learn a growth mindset and treat each challenge as an opportunity for growth and success in the future years!
depths, coasts and oceans around the globe.
King’s Fish House “The House that Seafood Built”
By Jody Robinson
Like many an engaging tale, the King’s Fish House story started with a road trip. Its founders traveled the highways and byways searching for the ultimate seafood experience.
They pulled up seats, put on bibs and soaked up the ocean’s offerings at establishments from coast to coast: The no-name dishes with unforgettable flavor, the fresh-caught oysters and clams piled high, the hand-lettered specials on ancient chalkboards and the savory simmer of every combination of spices imaginable.
They found that the simple and genuine pleasure of preparing and sharing sea-
food brought out the best in everyone - often feeling as though they’d been welcomed into somebody’s home. Those experiences are what now serves as the inspiration for the acclaimed King’s Fish House concept at its own restaurants whereby these ideas are brought together into one single, spectacular place, filled with camaraderie and celebration ... and of course, the freshest, most flavorful seafood.
Throughout the year, King’s Seafood Distribution – which services the entire King’s Seafood restaurant portfolio daily – works directly with established, local fisheries and fishermen to source each of their ever-changing seasonal and year-round seafood offerings. This month, guests can mentally migrate to Crisfield Maryland for delicate Softshell Crab, and to Morro Bay for individually caught, California King Salmon.
Seafood reigns supreme at each King’s location with custom daily menus where culinary specials are vast and cover all
On a recent visit to the King’s Fish House location in Laguna Hills, my husband and I had our work cut out for us in maneuvering the menu to whittle down options. Oysters or chilled shellfish from the raw bar? Hand-cut or signature sushi? Soups (New England clam chowder or spicy seafood), salads (seafood cobb, seared bluefin or wild salmon) or sandwiches? Fresh from the grill entrees like Wild Ecuadorian Mahi Mahi, Wild Alaskan Halibut or Wild Eastern Sea Scallops or a Fish House Favorite like the Sauteed N’awlins Barbecue Shrimp?
For starters, we went with the grilled jumbo artichoke with basil vinaigrette and pesto mayo. The perfect light starter from which to launch our own culinary expedition.
I love, love sushi and sashimi so I opted for the sashimi platter. Full disclosure: I’m half Japanese and an unabashed sushi snob - the fish has to be fresh, flavorful and served cold. King’s Fish House nailed it with the sliced tuna and Atlantic salmon. Then for the main course, I went with the seasonal California King Salmon special - perfectly grilled and delicious. Other popular preparations include Pan Seared served over grano, asparagus and oyster mushrooms in a garlic cream or the Cedar Plank, dry rubbed with a creole BBQ spice and served with summer grains and northwest vegetables.
For his part, my husband was happy as a clam (pun intended) with his cookedto-his-liking Harris Ranch filet mignon accompanied by grilled asparagus and garlic mashed potatoes.
King's Fish House 24001 Avenida De La Carlota Laguna Hills (949) 586-1515 kingsfishhouse.com
SEASON EVENTS
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