South County Magazine September 2023

COMMUNITY PUBLICATIONS CELEBRATES ITS 20TH

This month marks a major milestone for me personally and the entire Community Publications team as we celebrate our 20th year producing our group of Orange County-based community publications.

It feels like yesterday that the very first edition of HB Magazine came off the presses. This journey would not have been possible without the support of our wonderful advertising partners, many of whom took a chance on our fledgling publication(s) when opening their own businesses or growing their operations.

STEPHANIE FRISCH

I am particularly humbled by those who signed on in the early days and have continually participated since the inception of each of our titles - some of whom have been a partner for 12+ years or longer.

As I reflect on the past two decades, I am forever grateful for the strength of the relationships and wealth of friendships fostered with so many local business owners, professionals, community leaders and readers - your presence has been an integral part of our story and success.

Jody Robinson, publisher + editor

Insurance Services 101 • Advertising Partner since 2011

The best business decision I ever made was to advertise in South County Magazine - I’m proud to say that I have been participating since the very first issue. I have gained several hundred clients over the last decade due to my ad, and several hundred more from the referrals of my ad clients. I have a steady flow of business all year long, and South County Magazine has a lot to do with that.

DIANE SILVERSTEIN

Absolutely Fabulous • Advertising Partner since 2006

“Local print advertising is an essential part of our marketing strategy. After 16 years in business, I have found Jody’s HB Magazine to be the place to call home for our local print advertising. Not only is Jody very accommodating and easy to work with, she really cares about us and has become a part of our business family. Her magazine feels like Huntington Beach: friendly, smart, pro-business and fun. I highly recommend HB Magazine to anyone who is looking to advertise locally.”

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!

Building Our Youth and Community Through Sports

By Tim Vizzi

NextGen NFL Flag was created to build our youth and community through sports. An outlet for kids to first HAVE FUN and develop their skills and character through the game’s lessons. Through our program, we will shape better athletes, but more importantly, better people.

Our league creates an unforgettable experience for the kids while preparing them for life’s challenges by instilling qualities like teamwork, preparation, healthy competition, and discipline. These experiences help build character, confidence, and strength - qualities that extend beyond the field and into their futures.

We aim to elevate our athletes and make them feel like the pros. We cre-

ate an atmosphere that fosters the “superstar effect,” where players are encouraged to unleash their full potential. From our introductions and smoke tunnel pregame entrances to our ESPN-level postgame interviews, we ignite their excitement and passion for the game.

One of my life’s biggest blessings was having my older brother guide me through my football journey, looking out for me and teaching me invaluable life lessons. We carry this sense of brotherhood into running this program. Being in a position of mentorship, molded by our own trials and triumphs, to our youth who depend on us is a privilege and responsibility we feel called to. We believe any kid can be anything they are willing to work hard enough for, and we want to instill that confidence and strength into them so they can develop in it.

Crafting a league experience that reflects our values and vision, we’ve created an unparalleled experience that resonates with both our players and parents. Parents, you’re more than spectators; you’re the game’s

soundtrack, shaping the energy on the field and creating an electric atmosphere for the kids to thrive.

This league is more than just a flag league - it’s a community and family growing season after season forming lifelong memories and bonds. We are proud of how far we’ve come and are excited to make this Fall 23 the biggest and best one yet! Come join our NextGen NFL Flag Family.

Serving Grades K-8th, Co-Ed

(949) 427-0575

NextGenNFLFlag.com

The author Tim Vizzi (R) with his brother Matt

BENEFITS OF FENCING

Connected: Parenting Tips to Help Strengthen Your Relationship with Your Child

School

important to make sure we spend five times as much time in positive connection.

There are times when it is appropriate to be your child’s friend, but, for the most part, they need you to be the authority. They will feel “loved and connected” by feeling “safe” in your care.

3. SHARE YOUR DAILY WORLD. As appropriate, bring your child into your world, remembering that you are “raising adults.” If possible, occasionally take them to your work and/or give them grown-up responsibilities that connect them to your world.

4. PARTICIPATE IN THEIR ACTIVITIES AND PLAY. Rather than watching your child play at the playground, join in the fun. Discover/cultivate fun activities that you can enjoy with your child. The goal should be to have a common hobby, something you enjoy doing together.

Positive relationships between you and your child are built on quality time together. Time when you get to know about each other’s experiences, thoughts, feelings, and changing interests.

Quality time can happen anytime and anywhere, in the middle of ordinary days and situations. It can be a shared laugh when you’re bathing your toddler or a good conversation in the car with your teenager. These moments give you the chance to communicate positive messages with smiles, laughter, eye contact, hugs, and that special one-on-one interaction.

Researchers remind us that we need five positive interactions to every negative interaction to keep any relationship healthy. And since we spend so much time guiding -- aka correcting, reminding, and suggesting -- it’s

Given that parenting is the toughest job on earth -- and we live in a world with incessant demands on our time and attention, after being separated all day -- the only way to keep a strong bond with our children is to build in daily habits of connection. Here are five examples that won’t add time to your day yet does add connection. Simple, and incredibly powerful, these can help heal the distractions and disconnections of everyday life and using them daily can change everything.

1. LISTEN TO YOUR CHILDREN. Really listen — especially when it is your child who initiated the conversation. Extend conversations by saying, “tell me more,” or asking follow-up questions. Give your full attention to your conversations with your child by putting down your cell phone when conversing or during family-time activities.

2. DON’T BE AFRAID TO “PARENT.” Children and adolescents of all ages need strong guidance and limits.

5. REMEMBER, A CHILD’S PATH TO ADULTHOOD IS SELDOM LINEAR. Children and adolescents will regularly advance, then regress, then advance again in their development. They seldom advance to developmental milestones on time or without detours or bumps in the road. During these cycles, they will necessarily want more autonomy or perhaps need more structure. Learning to “read” your child is an acquired skill, yet it is definitely worth cultivating.

Although there’s no set formula for getting your parent-child relationship right, when we make it a priority and do the things that make children feel loved, we create an upward parenting spiral. When children feel loved, they feel happy and are more positive, more cooperative, more loving, and more lovable. And when we build on warm, loving, and responsive interactions most of the time, your child will feel loved, secured, and connected

If you are interested in learning more about Stratford School, or scheduling a personalized tour, visit us online at www.stratfordschools.com/tours

“Live so that when your children think of fairness, caring, integrity, and love, they think of you!”

– H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

By Jeanne Huybrechts, Chief Academic Officer – Stratford

It’s Okay to Be Different

October 14 + 15, 2023

Samueli Theater

With his signature blend of playfulness and sensitivity, New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Todd Parr explores important and timely subjects.

In this new production, Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia brings three of his storybooks to life. It’s Okay to Be Different cleverly delivers the important messages of acceptance, understanding, and self-confidence. Equally whimsical and heartfelt, The Earth Book, is a sweet homage to our

beautiful planet inspiring readers of all ages to do their part to keep the Earth happy and healthy.

This is My Hair is a funny exploration of how silly hair can be and that no

matter how your hair looks, always feel good about yourself. This production features a diverse cast and an innovative approach to puppetry manipulation and construction, combined with playful original music. For info, visit scfta.org

At Stratford, students accomplish extraordinary things. Our advanced yet balanced curriculum propels students to excel both inside and outside the classroom and inspires children to become creative problem-solvers, imaginative innovators, and insightful, confident leaders.

Orange County Labs

VIP Concierge Phlebotomy, Laboratory Directly To Your Door

Patience, kindness and true patient-centric healthcare from the comfort and convenience of Home? OC Labs delivers it all!

Orange County Labs, Inc. has been reinventing personalized patient care since 2014.

Recruited by LabCorp straight out of college in 1990, CEO, Bryan Muhlenbruch received extensive training and management experience at one of the nations largest medical laboratories, however he never wanted his patients at a draw station to feel like they were at a cattle call or just a number in-line.

After nearly twenty-four years of successful marketing management and oversight of four small regional labs, and transitioning them to LabCorp acquisitions, Bryan decided to go into business for himself. His goals, are to build on true patient-centered care and customizing the doctor’s individual or specific needs. Orange County Labs has proven to be your single source for all medical laboratory testing and home collections, located in Huntington Beach, CA, they come directly to your front door for your convenience.

“We are a full-service, high-complexity medical laboratory, specializing in custom and self-ordered blood draws,” says Bryan. “We of-

fer VIP Concierge in-home and at-business phlebotomy services, coming to you with our professionally trained staff to safely draw your blood or collect other sample types. Our test results come directly to your physician usually in 24 hours or less.”

OC Labs accepts all laboratory orders from any licensed healthcare provider. All orders are billed to PPO insurances directly, including Medicare, Medi-CAL, Cal Optima, Tricare and Humana Military. The collection and transportation fees are a covered benefit for the insured, so it’s at no cost to the patient. “Why wouldn’t you want in-home services, and be complete in only 10-15 minutes?”

Voted the #1 Medical Laboratory in Orange County, Orange County Labs performs a full range of blood, saliva, genetic, tissue, molecular and urine tests throughout Orange County. From early diagnosis to best treatment options, physicians count on Orange County Labs for fast, reliable and accurate results at a lower cost.

“We customize our approach to meet the needs of the people we serve,” says Bryan. “It just feels great to serve any patient who has been forced to adapt to a one-sizefits-all approach from the big national labs, ultimately saving time and hassle for the patient.”

As patients, we still have a choice of who we give our business to, including labs! Truly, Bryan says, “if you are dissatisfied with how things are being done when facing a blood draw for your physician, try our approach

of VIP Concierge Phlebotomy Services in the comfort of your home or office. I wish I could tell you just how much satisfaction and love our Phlebotomists get back from every one of our patients, who do not have to leave the comfort of their own homes.” “Building long-term relationships with our patients over the years, is what we enjoy the most!”

It’s heartbreaking, thinking about the challenges which face our aging population, or those with disabilities. Planning a trip to the lab, scheduling a ride, managing the essentials like medications, oxygen, walkers, Etc. just to get their blood drawn. We strive to eliminate this inconvenience for everyone. Orange County Labs also caters to our U.S. Military and First Responders to meet any special request.

With over 30 years in business under Bryan’s belt, Orange County Labs dedicated approach to conciergelevel healthcare is what keeps patients coming back time and time again. The teams of talented lab personnel and phlebotomists provide exceptional service and quality like no other. Orange County Labs is truly “Your Personal Medical Laboratory.”

Orange County Labs, Inc. 15165 Triton Lane

Huntington Beach (714) 894-1591

OrangeCountyLabs.com

Bryan J. Muhlenbruch, CEO

The Joy of Dining at the COVINGTON

A new chef means new culinary experiences at this award-winning senior community in Aliso Viejo

The culinary team at The Covington, one of the most soughtafter active retirement communities in Orange County, is dedicated to providing exceptional dining options for residents. The team comes from a hospitality background — many have worked in restaurants, hotels and resorts in Southern California and beyond, and bring that training, commitment and love of service to their roles at The Covington.

Javier Sarmiento, Senior Director, Dining Services has worked at the Four Seasons, and the Hilton. When he brought his hospitality expertise to senior living, he says, “honestly, it was one of the best decisions I’ve made.” Initially, he was surprised and delighted by the quality of the food. “It reminded me of the Four Seasons.” The food is on par with any of the hotels where he has worked. “The presentation is like what you see at high-end restaurants,” Javier says.

The Covington has two on-property restaurants. The Cove Bistro offers breakfast, lunch and dinner with a more casual menu including soups and specialty salads, sandwiches and burgers. The Grandview is the fine dining restaurant and is open for dinners and Sunday brunch. Both the Grandview and The Cove Bistro offer al fresco dining. The Grandview is especially popular as its large patio has beautiful views of the Saddleback mountains.

The menus change to reflect the seasons at both The Cove Bistro and The Grandview, especially with the recent

arrival of The Covington’s new Executive Chef, Charles (Chad) Krahling. Chef Chad has extensive experience in restaurants and hotels. After attending culinary school in San Francisco, he worked at several upscale restaurants in the city. He was also a private chef to well-known personalities, then an opportunity to work for Disney brought him and his family to Southern California. He worked at hotels in the Los Angeles area and was the chef for the Anaheim Ducks of the NHL. Working with athletes, he needed to focus on their dietary requirements to help them achieve peak performance.

Chef Chad was looking to move into a role where he could enrich the lives of others, when he came to The Covington in early May 2023. “I was initially struck by what an amazing community it is. It looks and feels like a resort property,” he says.

“The benefit of being in California is that we have access to the best produce in the country,” Chef Chad says. “I bring in seasonal elements, so we get fresh tomatoes at the best time, or crenshaw melons in season,” he

says, which he incorporates into the daily and weekly specials.

Relationships with local producers are the inspiration for his menu and new dishes. He receives a long list of fresh, available items from local purveyors. “We get great seafood from Santa Monica Seafood,” he says. He

uses that seafood in one of the most popular new dishes he has brought to The Covington, his celebrated smoked mussel chowder, which has been a huge hit with the residents.

“We are inspired by what’s available,” he says, so having the freshest ingredients gives him a lot of latitude to be creative. His goal is to present delicious meals that are healthy and have the right balance of protein and other nutrients.

Being executive chef at The Covington is a bit like being a personal chef, but to all the residents. “I need to understand their needs,” Chef Chad says. The smaller, more personal scale of The Covington allows the team to cater to the residents in a way that would not be possible at a larger community. Chef Chad is always looking to accommodate their requests. “I don’t say No if I can help it. We make everything here from scratch, so when asked for a special change, I will see what I can do and present the resident with options,” he says. “I like being available to the residents, speaking with them, and understanding their preferences.”

The culinary team meets monthly with the residents on the Dining Committee. The group provides input into

Pork Cassoulet, a traditional French recipe made with white beans. Once considered a simple, homestyle dish, it has become a culinary star with flavors that are rich and complex from being slow cooked.

The Cove cheeseburger and fries

the menu items and any refinement they’re interested in. Through these meetings, the team receives a lot of insight into what the residents enjoy.

Chef Andrew Wong is the Executive Sous Chef at The Covington and has been a key member of the team for six years. During his culinary studies at Cal Poly Pomona, he also studied wine, and earned a scholarship to Italy. He learned how Italy’s perspective on wine is different than in France. “In Italy, it’s about freshness and not manipulating the ingredients,” he says, so the ingredients come through.

He takes this perspective of freshness to his cooking. “With all the fresh ingredients we get to explore genres of food. Every week there are specials, from Thai food to Cuban food, or other international items, so residents get to try something new or different.”

Gerardo Guerrero, Dining Room Manager, has been with The Covington for almost 20 years. Over that time one thing that hasn’t changed is the quality of the people. “The residents are so nice here,” he says. And they love coming to the restaurants. It’s a great source of social connection and a delicious meal.

“We always have special events,” Gerardo says. Once or twice a month are piano nights when music accompanies the meal. It’s always a popu-

lar evening. “We have a happy hour every month, usually with a theme,” he says. Residents come together to enjoy an entertainer or an artist or karaoke while enjoying food inspired by that month’s theme. On major holidays, there’s always something extra special.

Javier says, “we’re always open to trying something new.” He describes the newest ‘member’ of the team, a robot, which joined them in July. Javier had experience with robots in some of the hotels where he worked, so was happy to see the latest technology support service.

The robot is programmed to go to a table, where a Human Team Member presents residents with their meal. The robot also helps with transporting items back to the kitchen when tables are cleared. If a resident is having a birthday, the robot delivers the birthday cake to the table. The robot can even sing Happy Birthday. “The robot sings a lot better than I do,” Javier laughs.

Javier loves seeing people discover something new to enjoy. “I’m most proud when I put a smile on a resident’s face,” he says.

“The Covington reminds me of a hotel resort property,” Chef Chad says. “The grounds are absolutely beautiful.” Chef Chad has been so taken by the quality of the community, the friendliness of the residents, the wealth of amenities and of course the quality of the food, that he’s talking to his father about calling The Covington home. “I want my dad to move here. I love this place.”

A modern take on the classic seafood favorite, crab cakes with honey pepper balsamic glaze. Garnished with red peppers, green onion, and fresh lemon, our culinary team offers their own unique take on it for an exceptional dining experience.

Sausage and Pepper Pappardelle with Mushroom Arugula Pizzetta

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How Can I Tell If I Have Skin Cancer?

There are three main types of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Because each has many different appearances, it is important to know the early warning signs.

Look especially for change of any kind. Do not ignore a suspicious spot simply because it does not hurt. Skin cancers may be painless, but dangerous all the same. If you notice one or more of the warning signs, see a board-certified dermatologist right away, preferably one who specializes in diseases of the skin.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Dispelling Myths ABOUT KETAMINE THERAPY FOR DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY

By Tanya Dall, MD and Justin Yanuck, MD

Ketamine therapy has emerged as a potential game-changer in the realm of depression and anxiety treatment. However, amidst the excitement, misinformation and myths have taken root. In the following feature, we will address a series of common myths and misconceptions.

MYTH: Ketamine therapy is just another trendy treatment and offers no real advantages over conventional therapies.

ANSWER: Contrary to this belief, ketamine therapy offers distinct advantages over traditional treatments. While antidepressants and psychotherapy remain important tools, ketamine therapy’s rapid onset of action can provide quicker relief for severe symptoms. It targets different pathways in the brain, which can be especially effective for individuals who haven’t responded well to other approaches.

MYTH: Ketamine therapy is only a short-term fix and doesn’t provide lasting benefits.

ANSWER: Ketamine therapy’s effects can extend beyond the immediate treatment period. Research has shown that the positive impact of ketamine on neural pathways can lead to lasting changes in mood regulation. Unlike traditional therapies like SSRIs which require daily use and often escalating doses, ketamine’s lasting effects can lead to permanent relief of symptoms or for some they only

need the occasional maintenance session every few months to sustain these benefits.

MYTH: Ketamine therapy is risky and has dangerous side effects, making it less safe than traditional treatments.

ANSWER: Ketamine therapy, when administered under medical supervision, is considered safe and well-tolerated. Like any treatment, it may have mild side effects, but these are typically short-lived and manageable. Traditional treatments can also have side effects, and the safety profile of ketamine therapy is comparable or even superior in certain cases.

MYTH: Ketamine therapy is only suitable for severe cases and doesn’t cater to those with milder symptoms.

ANSWER: Ketamine therapy can be tailored to individuals across a spectrum of severity, from moderate to severe cases. Unlike traditional treatments that often follow a one-sizefits-all approach, ketamine therapy’s versatility allows for personalized dosing and treatment plans, making it an adaptable option for a wider range of patients.

MYTH: Ketamine therapy lacks scientific backing and is experimental, unlike traditional therapies.

ANSWER: Ketamine therapy’s efficacy has been supported by a growing body of scientific research. Studies have demonstrated its potential to produce rapid and sustained improvements in mood and anxiety symptoms. While traditional therapies have a solid foundation, ketamine therapy’s innovative approach and promising results make it a formidable contender in the treatment landscape.

MYTH: Ketamine therapy is too expensive and inaccessible compared to traditional treatments.

ANSWER: While cost can be a factor, the affordability of ketamine therapy is evolving as it becomes more widely recognized and integrated into clinical practice. Additionally, the potential for quicker and more effective

relief with ketamine therapy could lead to reduced healthcare costs in the long run, making it a financially viable option for many.

MYTH: Ketamine therapy is a standalone treatment and cannot be combined with traditional therapies for better outcomes.

ANSWER: Ketamine therapy can complement traditional treatments, enhancing their effectiveness. Integrating ketamine therapy with psychotherapy or medication can lead to synergistic effects.

MYTH: Ketamine therapy is addictive and poses a risk of substance abuse, unlike traditional treatments.

ANSWER: Ketamine therapy, when administered by healthcare professionals, is closely monitored to minimize the risk of addiction. Traditional treatments, such as certain antidepressants, also carry the potential for dependence. Ketamine’s controlled usage and medical supervision ensure that addiction risk is comparable to or even lower than that of traditional treatments; furthermore, ketamine therapy has been shown to be an effective medication to treat certain addictions.

MYTH: Ketamine therapy’s effects are only surface-level and don’t address the root causes of depression and anxiety like traditional therapies do.

ANSWER: Ketamine therapy’s unique mechanism of action allows it to rapidly modulate brain pathways related to mood regulation. Ketamine leads to neuroplasticity which results in new neural connections forming which can lead to permanent resolution of one’s symptoms. This stands in stark contrast to many traditional psychiatric medications which serve to only blunt symptoms, without fundamentally changing any of the neurobiological framework.

MYTH: Ketamine therapy is just a temporary fad and will eventually be replaced by more advanced traditional treatments.

ANSWER: Ketamine therapy’s rapid rise is not a mere fad. Its groundbreaking potential has sparked substantial interest and investment in further research and development. As our understanding of ketamine’s mechanisms deepens, it is likely to continue playing a significant role alongside traditional treatments, potentially revolutionizing how we approach depression and anxiety.

While myths about ketamine therapy for depression and anxiety persist, a thorough examination reveals its superiority over traditional treatments in various aspects. From its rapid onset of action and potential for long-term benefits to its personalized approach and ability to enhance other therapies, ketamine therapy stands as a promising and innovative option. It is important to engage in open conversations with healthcare providers to make informed decisions tailored to individual needs, ultimately harnessing the power of ketamine therapy to create a brighter future for those grappling with depression and anxiety.

If you are interested in learning more, visit our website at renewketamineinfusion.com and feel free to book a free consultation with one of our Medical Doctors.

Estate

30230 Rancho Viejo Road, Ste. 134 San Juan Capistrano (949) 503-1414

Les Miserables

Sept. 19 - Oct. 1

Segerstrom Hall

Cameron Mackintosh presents the acclaimed production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon, Les Misérables.

This brilliant staging has taken the world by storm and has been hailed as “Les Miz for the 21st Century” (Huffington Post), “a reborn dream of a production” (Daily Telegraph) and “one of the greatest musicals ever created” (Chicago Tribune).

Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, Les Misérablestells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacri-

fice and redemption – a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. This epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history.

The magnificent score of Les Misérables includes the songs “I Dreamed a Dream,” “On My Own,”

“Bring Him Home,” “One Day More,” “Master of the House” and many more. Seen by over 130 million people worldwide in 53 countries and 22 languages, Les Misérables is undisputedly one of the world’s most popular musicals.

For info: scfta.org

PERSONALLY

HOSTED BY JANE SHOBEBest of Japan on September 24th, 2024 (Other dates

available)

Set sail on an incredible cruise around Asia aboard Celebrity Millennium® Visit exciting destinations and discover breathtaking natural beauty, thrilling culinary flavors, and fascinating landmarks along the way. Explore the ancient temples of Kyoto, the lush landscapes of Hanoi, Singapore’s world-famous spicy food stalls, and so much more.

September 12th Expedia Rate Prime Veranda $3062 pp inc taxes, beverage package, wifi and gratuities (refundable deposit of $900)

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DENTAL ATELIER

The Peel Craftbar & Kitchen

Fresh Flavors + Locally-Inspired Cuisine

By Jody Robinson

So many hotel restaurants miss the mark, and diners are left feeling like their experience was about as exciting as an over chlorinated indoor pool without a diving board. The Peel Craftbar & Kitchen, adding to the growing culinary landscape in Orange County, takes the hotel scene and elevates the experience with a quintessentially California, chef-driven menu and specialty cocktails.

Coastal California, meet luxury hospitality and heritage Mexican cooking. From the jump, guests are met with a unique tone: a dramatic U-shaped bar, retractable window for outdoor seating year-round, natural light through its floor-to-ceiling windows, and alfresco dining secured by lush greenery, fire pits, and an incredible water feature.

Executive Chef Luis Martinez brings a passion typically overlooked in hotel restaurants, confessing his passion in the kitchen comes from “cooking with my grandmother as a young boy in Mexico,” and inspiration from her menus has spilled over into his fish tacos, horchata ice cream, and bold flavors throughout the dressings and sauces.

Locally sourced (most items from within 150 miles of the restaurant), made in-house from scratch, and uniquely captivating, The Peel offers a new look at the seasonally focused menu: both at the table and the bar.

For a recent night out with friends, our group of fledgling foodies sampled a variety of delicious appetizers - the hummus duo (charred truffle carrot and garlic white bean) with grilled naan, crispy brussel sprouts enhanced with lemon, thyme and parmesan and Thai chicken flatbread

piled with mozzarella, blackened chicken, crispy onions, spicy aioli and micro cilantro. Fan of salads to start? You’ll love the innovative options here. My favorite is the Asian Peel made with grilled bok choy and romaine mix, blackened sashimi ahi, mandarin oranges, edamame .

It was difficult deciding on an entree - which for me makes dining out with three others a particular treat since I have the chance to experience a variety of dishes. On this night, the steak frite arrived as a grilled-to-perfection 10 oz. ribeye served with garlic parmesan fries and chimichurri while the crispy skin salmon was simply divine paired with grilled bok choy, forbidden rice and a flavorful citrus coconut sauce.

Changing throughout the year to ensure peak flavor, cocktail menus complement the kitchen philosophy: neighborhood feel with a delicious taste of sophistication and luxury.

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TICKETS + RESERVATIONS: (949) 496-8930

SEPTEMBER

SEPT 1 BANG TANGO & ENUFF Z'NUFF

SEPT 2 THE PETTYBREAKERS

SEPT 8 YACHTY BY NATURE - CAPTAINS OF SMOOTH ROCK

SEPT 9 HIGHERGROUND - CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF STEVIE WONDER

SEPT 13 SAMANTHA FISH

SEPT 14 THE MAN IN BLACK - A TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY CASH

SEPT 15 DON MCLEAN - THE AMERICAN PIE 50TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

SEPT 16 THE FENIANS - HALF WAY TO ST. PATRICK’S DAY

SEPT 17 BENISE - FIESTA!

SEPT 20 PHANTOM PLANET

SEPT 21 KEIKO MATSUI

SEPT 22 AL STEWART & THE EMPTY POCKETS

SEPT 23 BEATLES VS. STONES

SEPT 24 MOLLY HATCHET

SEPT 25 DAVE MASON

SEPT 28 KOFI BAKER'S CREAM FAITH

SEPT 29 JOHN WAITE

SEPT 30 GARRISON KEILLOR TONIGHT

OCTOBER

OCT 5 GEOFF TATE'S BIG ROCK SHOW HITS

OCT 6 BULLETBOYS WITH SPECIAL GUESTS XYZ

OCT 7 RONDSTADT REVIVAL - LINDA RONDSTADT TRIBUTE

OCT 8 LOUIE CRUZ BELTRAN

OCT 12 CRYSTAL BOWERSOX

OCT 13 DESPERADO - PREMIERE EAGLES TRIBUTE

OCT 14 DESPERADO - PREMIERE EAGLES TRIBUTE

OCT 15 JOURNEYMAN - A TRIBUTE TO ERIC CLAPMAN

OCT 18 FUNNIEST HOUSEWIVES "THE LAST SHOW"

OCT 19 PAT TRAVERS BAND

OCT 20 ORIANTHI

OCT 21 PAT BOONE

OCT 22 MIKE PETERS PRESENTS THE ALARM ACOUSTIC

OCT 25 CHRISTOPHER CROSS

OCT 27 PIANO MEN: GENERATIONS

OCT 28 ALO WITH SPECIAL GUEST SHIRA ELIAS

OCT 29 MARTIN SEXTON

OCT 31 OINGO BOINGO FORMER MEMBERS 33157 Camino Capistrano | San Juan Capistrano

 coachhouseconcerthall  @coach_house

www.TheCoachHouse.com  (949) 496-8930

SEPTEMBER 16TH

THE FENIANS

For over twenty five years, The Fenians have delivered their potent mix of traditional Irish folk and good old rock n roll all across the USA and Ireland. With an ever expanding set of original creations, as well as contemporary and traditional tunes plucked from the panoply of the genre, these five lads put on a live show that is second to none. Their foundation is decidedly Celtic, but there is no mistaking the complimentary influences of Rock, Folk, Bluegrass, Jazz, and World music.

SEPTEMBER 28TH

KOFI BAKER'S CREAM FAITH

Son of legendary drummer Ginger Baker, Kofi Baker is a name synonymous with drumming excellence. Without question, Kofi not only continues, but extends the family legacy, with outstanding skills, drive and dedication to his craft celebrating classic cuts from Cream & Blind Faith, with other top session musicians.

SEPTEMBER 30TH

GARRISON KEILLOR TONIGHT

Garrison Keillor Tonight is an evening of stand-up, storytelling, audience song, and poetry. One man, one microphone. There are sung sonnets, limericks and musical jokes, and the thread that runs through it is the beauty of growing old. Despite the inconvenience, old age brings the contentment of LESS IS MORE. Your mistakes and big ambitions are behind you, nothing left to prove, and small things give you great pleasure because that’s what’s left.

OCTOBER 8TH

LOUIE CRUZ BELTRAN

Louie Cruz Beltran blends Afro Cuban rhythms with jazz, Latin jazz, pop and R&B influences. Louie is an entertainer at heart –a bandleader who is also a superbly skilled conguero, timbalero and vocalist. In his early career Beltran performed with great artists such as Ray Baretto, Mongo Santamaria, Tito Puente, Francisco Aquabella, and Jorge Claudio. Recently he has shared the stage with legends Natalie Cole, Gladys Knight, Stevie Wonder and Smokey Robinson. In venues large and small, Louie always connects with the audience with humor, solid musicianship and dazzling percussion work.

 33157 Camino Capistrano | San Juan Capistrano

 www.TheCoachHouse.com

(949) 496-8930

9/9 HIGHERGROUND

9/21 KEIKO MATSUI 9/25 DAVE MASON 10/18 FUNNIEST HOUSEWIVES

9/20

Scallops with Ricotta

TAVERN AT THE MISSION

Uniquely Rich History, Old Town Charm and Unrivaled Culinary Creations

By Jody Robinson

In the business world, turnover can be challenging. In the restaurant industry, attrition happens more often than you might expect. But what happens when an iconic location becomes available for the first time in a quarter century? Magic.

The new tenant, brainchild of longtime friends and business partners David Wilhelm and Gregg Solomon, recently moved into the heart of San Juan Capistrano’s glittering mission district. Directly across the street from the Mission itself, home to the incredible swallow migration, Tavern at the Mission brings a signature taste and happy hour exclusives to boot.

Longtime South County denizen, Chef Wilhelm is a highly respected icon himself on the Orange County culinary scene - renown for scores of concept restaurants he’s had a hand in creating over the years, including Kachina, Bistro 201, French 75, Sorrento Grill, Savannah Chop House, Chat Noir and Jim my’s Famous American Tavern.

An attempt to maintain the original character of a place while also infusing it with new life was no small feat when planning major renovations, but a must for Wilhelm and Solomon in their mission (pun intended) to preserve the location’s uniquely rich history and old town charm.

The menu here is characterized by innovative New American cuisine and quintessential comfort food classicsthose that draw inspiration from the region’s multicultural roots (think the flavors of Mexico, Spain and Europe) and Wilhelm’s own signature creations like French 75’s onion soup enhanced with a thyme, sherry, Gruyere glaze.

For starters, the grilled-to-perfection filet mignon skewers paired with forest mushrooms, pearl onions and bernaise sauce are worth writing home about, as are any of the Tavern’s generous dinner salads (curried chicken and papaya, Santa Fe Caesar, Maine Lobster and Shrimp Louie).

Popular entrees range from seafood specialties (a flaky pan-roasted Mahi accompanied

by spinach with crispy sweet garlic, seared Day Boat Scallops atop creamy Parmesan polenta and a BBQ spiced salmon) to delicious options designed to satisfy even the most discriminating of meat eaters. My husband, who falls firmly into the latter category, thoroughly enjoyed the flavorful “French Onion” filet mignon that arrived in its own cast iron skillet and is looking forward to a return visit to sample the short rib stroganoff.

Fan favorites of Cedar Creek Inn’s Monte Cristo sandwich and ridiculously decadent Coconut Cake will be delighted to find them both menu mainstays. Among my favorite finds on my first foray to the Tavern? Live music Thursday - Sunday on the charming Mission-view patio.

Sign up to become a VIP to receive updates on exclusive events, secret menus and special offers. And while you don’t have to be a VIP to try the Tavern’s signature dishes, like D’ Honey Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Coconut Crusted Shrimp with horseradishmarmalade or the half-pound, prime Angus sirloin Tavern cheeseburger ... but I certainly wouldn’t pass up the opportunity.

Ask a SOMM

By Jody Robinson

A good sommelier is a helper: a guide to finding the best wine for your food and experience. For this month’s installment, we again approached South County-based sommelier Micah Sampson to address a few frequently asked questions.

Q What the heck is a sulfite and why is it in my wine?

A Sulfites occur as part of the fermentation process, a natural byproduct of yeast metabolism during the conversion of sugar to alcohol. They are completely harmless to over 99% of all people. In fact, the human body produces sulfites, a whole bunch of it, there’s already about 10 times more sulfites in you on a daily basis than a bottle of wine.

The thought of sulfites being a synthetic chemical added to wine is just a misguided fear. Winemakers might add additional small quantities near the end of fermentation to halt the process, but that’s the natural way to do it, like turning on the lights at the end of a dance party.

It’s also added during bottling as an antioxidant to help prevent spoilage. But, they only use what is needed to complete those stages, usually using amounts far within acceptable boundaries.

Sulfites do two things really well: they bond with oxygen molecules, keeping the wine from oxidizing into vinegar, and they push bacteria out of the wine

to keep it from spoiling. Sulfites are like bouncers at the door of a bar, keeping the bad people out without ruining the party.

Q So, why the warning labels?

A Good question. In 1987, the government stepped in and required warnings on anything containing sulfites. Here’s why… salad bars.

You’ve seen this at home when you cut up an apple, 20 minutes later it’s a lovely shade of brown and your kids won’t touch it. Well, at restaurants people weren’t eating the aging fruits and veggies either and that’s bad for business. The solution in the 1970’s and 80’s was to spray the produce with sulfites. Voila… no more brown produce!

However, restaurants were using up to 2,000 ppm (parts per million), which caused adverse reactions in several hundred people and cases were being reported to the FDA. So they banned the use on raw fruits and veggies and imposed warning labels on anything with sulfites over 10 ppm.

Q What about those scary reactions to sulfites?

A Sulfites can cause an allergic reaction, but in less than 1% of the population and rarely headaches. The main group of people who could have a reaction are asthmatics, and the reactions are usually breathing problems, throat swelling and hives.

The government did make a good move by trying to warn those who could have a sensitivity. But the damage was done, sulfites now looked scary. The vast majority of wines produced in the world usually fall into the 10-100 ppm range, so they are all required to have the scary warning on the bottle. Add in the speed of the internet and social media, you now have the perfect storm of spreading false information like wildfire.

Q Ok, then why do I get headaches?

A When defending sulfites, people commonly ask, “then why do I get headaches from red wine?” First of all, there’s usually twice as much sulfites in white wine as there are in red. If you get headaches from reds and not whites, then it’s definitely not a sulfite reaction. Secondly, there are a whole host of other natural components in red wine which can cause a headache – tannins and histamines being the main ones. Red wine contains about 30 times more histamines than white wine and, if your body has an intolerance to histamines, the number one symptom of an intolerance is… you guessed it, headaches! However, the most common culprit is likely a combination of two things no one ever likes to admit to: dehydration and too much alcohol. So, there’s a good chance your friend who swears they’re allergic to sulfites, and announces it ever-so-confidently, is likely just suffering from downing 4 glasses of cab sauv without drinking any water. Hydrate you newb!

Sommelier Micah Sampson

Marila’s Mexican

By Jody Robinson

Created for community as a place that welcomes families through the comforts of Mexican home cooking, Marila’s Mexican is inspired by the Huntington Beach values and commitment to integrity on which its founding family prides itself.

of line-caught fresh fish ceviche ... a combo worth a return trip.

Taco options were equally delicious. The Al Pastor with crispy melted cheese, tender braised chicken, marinated filet mignon with a spicy serrano pistachio salsa and short rib quesabirria and Jalisco salsa all arrived atop handmade tortillas.

“Marila’s was built to serve up the nostalgia of home,” says Eric Adler, Co-Owner and first generation Mexican-American. He and his brothers, Alan and Alexander Adler, and cousins Isidoro and Moy Lombrozo, named the restaurant after their abuela, Marila: the matriarch responsible for crafting a love and passion around traditional and authentic cooking.

Offering award-winning fajitas, tacos, marinades, and fresh fish dishes, the

new establishment operates under a focal point of sharable, sizzling fare.

On a recent night out with friends who are also fellow fledgling foodies, we indulged in an array of delectable delights (the beauty of shareable plates was certainly not lost on our group this night).

We couldn’t decide between the classic guacamole, the signature Puesto “perfect” guacamole that starts with the classic and adds Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and the inventive Nogada enhanced with pomegranate, mango pico and candied walnuts. So we opted to sample all three - each uniquely flavorful and coupled them with an appetizer

After including in so many mouthwatering appetizers and entrees (not to mention the Puesto Perfect Margarita that truly lives up to its name), we lamented not saving enough space to finish the delectable desserts (horchata flan, pina colada cake and chocolate canela cake).

Sidle up to the bar for a curated list of agave spirits like tequila and mezcal, and some lesser-known sotols, bacanoras, and raicillas sourced throughout Mexico. No matter what you order, you’re sure to share in history, home, and a piece of Marila’s heart.

Family recipes passed down through generations offer the comforts of Mexican home cooking in the heart of Huntington Beach

Bozeman, Montana Nature’s Charming Escape

Everyone has their list: those spots that remind you that fall is around the corner. Maybe it’s a smell, or the way the sunlight hits at a particular latitude. The most recent locale to reminisce for our family? Bozeman, Montana for both indoor attraction and outdoor adventure as a last hurrah before school started up again.

Seasonality aside, Bozeman is among the most idyllic family-friendly spots we’ve previously visited in our trek across the country on our quest to visit all 50 states as a family by the time our son (now a high school junior) graduates from high school so it was worth a return trip that didn’t disappoint.

Wide open spaces. Massive blue skies. The natural splendor of the region is nothing short of awe-inspiring - and at 20 square miles, Bozeman boasts peaks and valleys in every di-

By Jody Robinson

rection for abundant outdoor activity. There’s fly fishing, hiking, mountain biking, skiing, river floating, golfing, white water rafting, bird watching.

Indoor endeavors are equally intriguing: arts, museum culture (Museum of the Rockies, Gallatin History Museum), tribal artists and Indigenous design,

beadwork, jewelry, painting, symphonies, and year-round theater. Summer rodeos, fall farmer’s markets and festivals, and winter holiday made fairs mean there’s no shortage of activities and every reason to put it at the top of your to visit list.

And where to stay in the state’s fourth largest cityscape? If you’re looking for lodging with personality in the heart of downtown, The LARK (LarkBozeman.com) is a favorite for our family. This 67-room, beautifully renovated boutique hotel focuses its attention beyond its walls - yet never forgets an important interior detail.

Originally built in the 1960s, the Streamline-era architecture features an open-air design, a welcoming outdoor fire pit and wide balconies to showcase everything that downtown has to offer – all within an easy stroll - including the scores of charming restaurants, breweries and boutiques.

Like the Bozeman ethos itself, The LARK simple, yet modern accommodations are defined by the quality of experience. From its carefully curated decor to the expressive wall illustrations that adorn the lobby and guest rooms (created by local Montana artisans), The LARK offers a truly unique connection to the community. Whether it be a reference to Montana’s highways, a representation of Bozeman’s beautiful mountain ranges, or a life-size mural of a full-grown moose, each room is themed to tell a story about the experiences that are waiting just outside the door!

In addition to the allures of downtown, The LARK offers convenient access to explore the mountains, valleys and waters of the Gallatin River Valley in its own backyardat its heart, a freestone (rather than dam-controlled) river that is open and accessible year-round.

September 5 - 10, 2023

Segerstrom Hall

The New York Times calls it “the best musical of this century.” The Washington Post says, “It is the kind of evening that restores your faith in musicals.” And Entertainment Weekly says, “Grade A: the funniest musical of all time.” Jimmy Fallon of The Tonight Show calls it “Genius. Brilliant. Phenomenal.” It’s The Book of Mormon, the nine-time Tony Award® winning Best Musical.

This outrageous musical comedy follows the adventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent halfway across the world to spread the Good Word. With standing room only productions in London, on Broadway, and across North America, The Book of Mormon has truly become an international sensation. Contains explicit language.

Beth Carney Owner

ReelTime has the best 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.

Call Us at 949.240.0555

to schedule your FREE Connected Home Consultation!

26381 Via De Anza San Juan Capistrano reeltimeav.com

Open 10AM to 6PM • Closed Sunday

SMART Technology

Audio/Video/HiFi

Home Automation

Outdoor Living

Pets of the Month

Are you looking for your new best friend?

Handsome guy Rex is a four year old German Shepherd who just can’t wait to meet you! An energetic dog, he enjoys long walks and playtime in the yard. Rex has done well with other dogs and older children and is looking for an active home where he can continue with his training.

This loveable little ball of fur is Dahlia, a one year old spayed Lionhead dwarf mix. Though she can sometimes be a tad shy at first meeting, Dahlia warms up quickly. She has a curious nature and likes to explore her surroundings. Dahlia is treat-motivated, litterbox trained, and a sucker for head scratches. Come meet Dahlia and you’re sure to fall in love.

ME

Say hello to Grayson, a handsome eleven year old senior cat. Don’t let his age fool you! This big guy has lots of youthful energy and keeps up with the cats a fraction of his age. Curious and playful, Grayson would be a good kitty roommate for a confident and outgoing cat. Could he be the one for you?

to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain and more.

Lalani has a wide range of talents. She specializes in and loves to do weddings. She prides herself on making her clients look perfect on that special occasion. Lalani’s extensive list of services include Facials, Waxing, Colors, Cuts, Exensions, Brazilian Blow Outs, Air Brush Makeup, Updo’s and more.

Justin Yanuck, MD and Tanya Dall, MD

Conservatory @ Curiosity

By Ann Laurence

Who doesn’t love boutique shopping? I love perusing the beautiful designer handbags, clothing and unique designer and artisian jewelry that you’ll discover at Conservatory @ Curiosity - a 1,000-square-foot space that just might be one of the most elegant and charming shops in San Juan Capistrano.

Owner Beth Carney came from the corporate world of large department stores. She worked at Joseph Magnin in Century City and South Coast Plaza. She opened her first store Anything

Goes on PCH in Newport Beach, then moved into two larger stores on Balboa Island and Lido Island which grew to seven locations. The owner of Conservatory @ Curiosity for the past 36 years, Beth has an incredible eye for buying. She has worked with film studios, actors, Hollywood estates and model photo shoots … and she has something for everyone’s budget. “Boutique shopping doesn’t have to break the bank,” she

says. “I love it when people come in and find just what they are looking for.” Beth also believes in giving back and has been a 36-year member of the Camino Health Center Auxiliary and belongs to Fiesta Association in San Juan Capistrano.

Conservatory @ Curiosity offers everything from Chanel, Prada and Louis Vuitton bags to one-of-a-kind designer wear. Come check out our fabulous back room. Kaffie Gillian Featuring Modern and Vintage clothing, shoes, bags & Jewelry. Enchanted designs from haute to cottage chic await. Come visit our location in Marbella Plaza and receive 20% off your purchase!

Designer Boutique 31003 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite D-2

San Juan Capistrano (949) 240-9100

Hours: Mon - Sat 10 am - 5 pm; Closed Sundays

Owner Beth Carney

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.

ichael 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

had my best interest in mind! Not only is he a good lawyer but he is a good person which made a world of difference for me. I could not have asked

Michael and Courtney Cefali

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?

Cefali & Cefali, APC (877) 423-3254

CallCefali.com

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, be it your Medicare HMO plan, Medicare PPO plan or your Medicare RX plan, feel free to reach out to me, I’d be happy to help you.

“Dr. J” Southern California Family Dentistry

By Jody Robinson

Idon’t really read studies. I’m not a search-Google-for-the-numbers person. But I can tell you one thing as a person who experiences anxiety about dental work, it can be difficult to weight out my desire for continued ‘A’ grades from my bi-annual checkups with the fact that there are a great many dental procedures that seem overwhelming and risky. That’s why it’s so important to find the right dental professional with whom to build a long-term dental healthcare relationship.

Oral health is more than just a pretty smile and comprehensive care encompassing different practice areas can be challenging to find under one roof – a hallmark that distinguishes Southern California Family Dentistry (SCFD) from others in the industry.

With almost 30 years of experience in dentistry, Dr. J and his team of highly skilled dentists, hygienists, assistants, and office managers take a patient-centric approach to providing

exceptional general, cosmetic, and restorative dental care for patients of all ages.

A member of the American Dental Association (ADA) and an associate fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), Dr. J holds a doctorate from the University of Southern California (USC) and completed his dental residency at the Medical College of Georgia. He took over an existing dental practice in 2006 that has now been serving the local community for over 50 years and is among only 5% of all dentists to carry the license needed to provide IV conscious sedation with his own laboratory on site to ensure 100% control over case outcomes.

He and his team stay abreast of advancements in the field – both in terms of technology and continuing education. State-of-the-art dental technologies - diagnostic x-rays, CT scans and intraoral cameras - provide accurate and efficient diagnosis.

Maybe it’s because I’m getting older, but I’m paying a bit more attention to information on dental implants and “teeth in a day” procedures than I have in the past. So many questions come to mind. How do you know if you’re a good candidate? Is the procedure really done in just one day? What are the benefits of dental implants versus dentures? How long do they last?

Because implant surgery is extremely technique-sensitive, an inexperienced dentist may not fully comprehend certain aspects until he or she gains the necessary skills that comes with time and repeated practice. Having placed dental implants for over 20 years and the placement of 20 to 30 dental implants per month (versus three to five in a year like some providers), Dr. J’s practice checks my first box: Experience.

In terms of dentures vs. dental implants, Dr. J says removable dentures do not feel like real teeth because “they rest on top of the gums” so the majority of people who wear dentures must restrict their food intake. According to studies, complete dentures are only 20% as effective as natural teeth. “With dental implants, biting is significantly more effective, diminishing the potential for gastrointestinal issues.”

“The best scenario is for the dentist who will be making the teeth to decide where the implant will be placed so that a single person is accountable for the entire procedure from start to finish,” says Dr. J. This is what we do here at SCFD - the same dentist who places the implant(s) is also in charge of restoring the implant.

Dr. J adds that “the obvious benefit of dental implants is never having to go without teeth and completing the procedures in less time ensures you preserve the surrounding bone.” Anchored to it, these fittings are the final step in a process which begins with a dental consultation, diagnostic work up, x-rays, and extraction of any

remaining teeth. What used to take weeks however, can now be streamlined into a single appointment.

“Dental implants are extremely safe,” he says. “They have been around for

decades now and there have been no issues with biocompatibility or rejections due to allergic reactions. The only thing unsafe about implants is inexperience.

“Missing teeth can directly and indirectly contribute to many health problems. Patients with many missing teeth or no teeth, show poor dietary habits and nutritional intake, increased risk of hypertension, coronary artery diseases and osteoporosis. There’s also the obvious esthetic benefit of not being without teeth. However, having a healthy mouth and a full set of teeth is the greatest benefit that implants offer.”

There are a few questions that come from outlining that process - from a pain perspective, and also a practicality. When can I eat normally again? Will it be uncomfortable or irritating? Can I resume normal activities right away? The healing process typically takes about three to six months and primarily depends on the individual patient’s health and the quality of the bone that the implant is placed in.

“Dental implants can last just as long as natural teeth,” says Dr. J. “What

we do in implant dentistry is replace hopeless teeth, so if you take care of your implants the same way as your original teeth (that you lost), the results cannot be expected to be any better. However, if implants are taken care of properly, they can last as long as (if not longer than) teeth.”

The boxes all check. Not only for a regular dental cleaning and checkups, but for long-term healthcare that you can truly build at the top of the body and work your way down. Whether you need a routine cleaning or a more complex procedure such as dental implants, you

can trust that you are in the best of hands at Southern California Family Dentistry.

“Oral health impacts the whole body - and when we can get you smiling, we’re well on our way to restoring a critical piece of that puzzle.” I’d imagine there’s at least a single study to prove that out. Don’t take my word for it though, give Dr. J a call and see what might get you into (or back into!) the dentist’s chair.

H. Jahangiri, DDS

Massage for Your Teenager?

Bodywork Can Ease Adolescent Angst

PROVIDED

BY

MICHELLE BRYANT

While teens may be less likely than their parents to go to a massage therapist, there are plenty of reasons why this age group should be encouraged to give it a try.

The benefits of massage are well documented, among them relief of muscle tension, lowered stress hormones, increased sense of relaxation, improved immune function, and even a heightened ability to concentrate, according to studies conducted by the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami School of Medicine. But for teenagers, there's an additional payback.

The teenage body is in the midst of transformation -- exponential growth and development in a rapid period of time. On the physical side, teens may be at increased risk for aches, pains, and injury. Many teens strain their bodies with competitive sports, get erratic sleep, and consume a less-than-optimal diet. Massage can help muscles recover from overuse,

and help balance the body and maintain that stability.

Perhaps even more crucial, teen massage can help improve body image and sleep patterns, and contribute to decreased depression, anxiety, and stress. This keeps a teen connected to her body, even as it morphs in confounding ways. "Many teens are self-conscious, and not happy with their bodies," says Eeris Kallil, massage therapist and shiatsu instructor at the Boulder College of Massage Therapy, in Colorado. "Massage can help teens stay grounded." Bodywork has also been

reported to help mediate eating disorders, a growing concern among teens.

Another potential plus: A beneficial, therapeutic relationship can develop between bodyworkers and teenagers during the years when adolescents need adult confidantes, but keep parents at a distance. The practitioner can become a supportive, trusted adult in a teen's life. And the session itself, according to Kallil, can be a way to deal with all the physical and emotional turmoil of this tender age.

Michelle Bryant is the owner of the San Juan Capistrano-based Massage Associates. To connect with her directly, visit 31952 Camino Capistrano (in the Mercado Village) or call (949) 489-7924.

YOUR MEDICAREPLAN AnnualNoticeofChange

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.

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 news-

paper, 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.

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