TEMPUR-breeze° feels up to 8° cooler* all night long with nextgeneration, cover-to-core cooling technology. We’d like you to meet the TEMPUR-LUXEbreeze°.
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30 Years in the same Location
PETER PRESCOTT, CPA
Prescott Tax & Wealth
Management •
Advertising Partner since 2011
The best investment a business owner can make is investing in their own business. There has no better investment I could have made than my decision to advertise in South County Magazine. The beauty of South County Magazine is the forum for my firm to connect on a personal level so my future clients have a sense of who we are, why we care and how we may help them. This allows our clients to be productive the second they come into our office and to feel comfortable that they have made a good long-term decision for their future financial well-being.
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!
STEPHANIE FRISCH
Insurance Services 101 •
Advertising Partner since 2011
The best business decision I ever made was to advertise in South County Magazine - I’m proud to say that I have been participating since the very first issue. I have gained several hundred clients over the last decade due to my ad, and several hundred more from the referrals of my ad clients. I have a steady flow of business all year long, and South County Magazine has a lot to do with that.
Abiding Savior Lutheran School & Preschool
Building Christ-Centered Leaders
By Jody Robinson
My husband and I remember our kids’ pre-school years. Which will forever be known in our home as the grouping of years when we received advice - solicited and otherwise - from everyone we knew about which school has the best standardized test scores, or the greatest teacher of all time, the coolest playground, the worst cafeteria lunches. While all that is seemingly important, we remember being more concerned with selecting a school that would combine curricular learning with foundational development for our kids’ bodies and spirits as well. It’s a particular feat to emerge from university well educated to be sure, but what good is it really to gain the world and lose your soul?
Luckily for parents of school-aged children in South OC, it’s not necessary to spend long hours searching for a program that combines a culture of mission with a developmental approach in teaching (whereby students learn through play, movement and music) and an elementary school experience that follows along
with California State Standards and benchmarks to guide their teaching through mainstream curriculums.
Voted best faith-based school and preschool in Orange County, Abiding Savior Lutheran School takes very seriously the Biblical command to “train up a child in the way they should go, for when they are old they will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22). But what sets its campus apart from every other PreK-8th in the county? Parents and students would say it’s because Abiding Savior’s administration and teachers “bring [their] hearts to work.”
teaching staff is absolutely the best. They give so much of themselves to the families of Abiding Savior. They know each and every student in a very special way. They take into account their learning styles and if they are going through something that needs their attention.”
Emphasizing a growth mindset built on solid academic instruction and preparation for high school and beyond is key, built on a foundation of learning with the goal of “building Christ-Centered leaders” through an engaging curriculum, empowering social development and enriching service activities. Small class sizes leads to more individualized attention.
“Our preschool and elementary school share the same mission statement: Joyfully and intentionally make and nurture disciples who make disciples,” says Ms. Lucas. “We do that by loving, serving and connecting. We have weekly chapel services, daily religion classes and our Bibilcal Worldview is woven throughout our curriculum.
“Because of our culture, the comment that we hear most often when people walk onto campus is that they feel so welcome,” says Principal Donna Lucas. “When a student enrolls here they are more than just a student, they are a part of our family. They are important and special because they are a child of God. I believe that our
Service is a cornerstone of Abiding Savior’s mission. Students and staff collect offerings for many nonprofit organizations throughout the region, including NEGU, Disaster Relief Funds and other church outreach programs. Over 300 toys are collected each year for Spark of Love, over 500 boxes are packages for Operation Christmas Child and the school’s annual food drive benefits South County Outreach and Abiding Savior’s own pantry - amazing generosity for a school of just under 300 students.
Learning the ABC’s at Laguna Fencing Center
By Jody Robinson
I’d like you to take a little test for me. I just made my husband come over to the couch and do this as well, so you won’t be alone.
Close your eyes, and then have a friend/partner/child take one of your hands and position it away from your body in the air. Then, with your eyes still closed, take your other thumb and forefinger and touch the placed thumb. Can you do it? If so, you’re properly articulated in space. Or, more properly: your proprioception is in working condition. Proprioception, or kinesthesia, is your body’s way of telling you where you are in your environment. And it also happens to be one of the main skills of children and adults who fence. That’s right: like, with swords. Or rather foils, sabres, and epees.
Fencing and proprioception have similar building blocks. Agility, balance, and coordination. ABC. And at Laguna Fencing Center in Orange County, Olympic coaches lead classes and private lessons that delve into the mechanics of each. There are programs for all skill levels from beginners to advanced/elite, enthusiasts ranging from youth to adults, with rolling admission so new students can join at any time.
My 14-year-old son, a freshman in high school, just started a few weeks ago, after begging to sign up for the free fencing practice lesson offered to anyone interested. Perhaps it was the recent excitement of the Tokyo Olympics, where Lee Kiefer won the United States’ first gold medal in individual foil. Maybe he just remembered playing with swords as a kid. Or more likely it's that two of his best buddies have been longtime students at Laguna Fencing Center and truly excel at the sport - something our son thinks is infinitely cool and aspires to achieve. But no matter what the reason, we're thrilled because we have already seen his self-confidence skyrocket.
It’s a workout, to be sure. Somewhere between a HIIT class and ballroom dancing. Keeping his body aligned in space while also anticipating his opponent’s attack and being strategically ready to mount an instantaneous counter-attack is enough to make me sweat while watching.
Laguna Fencing Center has trained some of the best fencers in the country, and it’s evident why once you step foot into the state-of-the-art facilities. It doesn’t hurt my son’s case to find out that the NCAA heavily recruits fencers, and that individual athletes are ten times more likely to “play” than in any other mainstream college sport.
Now, take both hands, and curl them into fists. Raise both thumbs to the sky. That’s right- now you’re articulated in space the same way I am after each session at Laguna Fencing Center: with two thumbs up.
Laguna Fencing Center
26062 Merit Circle, Suite 103
Laguna Hills (949) 215-4112
LagunaFencing.com
To sign up for the complimentary trial lesson, email Coach Nick at info@lagunafencing.com
Register now through October 15 for just $50
Register Oct 15 through Nov 15 for just $75
Register Nov 15 through Dec 15 for just $95
Register online or call/text (949) 468-0086
Games start January 8 (eight games)
Unlimited friend requests
Head Coach’s child plays FREE!
Sign up as an individual or as a team* *ESL will send players to help fill your roster if needed! (ages 4 & up)
Orange (Theory) Is the New You
This is Where You Go All Out
By Jody Robinson
There have been a number of interesting developments in the world of fitness within the last decade. I’m not talking about the Shake Weight, however comical that particular invention is. TRX, kettlebells, even the BOSU Ball joined the ranks of handy equipment to keep on hand when the urge to workout strikes. But we didn’t really hit our stride until Orangetheory Fitness came along.
A dynamic science-backed, metrics-tracked group workout, Orangetheory is designed to produce results
without making impossible goals or burning out and walking away from that new, expensive set of weights you purchased on a whim. The idea is to essentially reach your maximum output for the ideal amount of time during the one-hour class.
Orangetheory Fitness offerings have particular appeal for someone like me who gets bored of the same routine because no two workouts are the same. The format of the class is divided into three sections: cardio, rowing and strength-training in an ever-changing repertoire of classes. Regardless of your fitness ability, the nature of the high-intensity interval training (HIIT) will leave you out of breaththe ultimate aim to reach the “orange zone” which is 84 - 91 percent of your max heart rate for a science-backed range of time. The dynamic mix
leads to improved stability, agility and strength.
Dusty Dial, owner of three locations in south Orange County, is so convinced you’ll like the group HIIT that after a one-month (12 session minimum) trial, you can still walk away scot free. “If you don’t feel like you’re living a more vibrant, happier, healthier life, then take back all your money and walk away.”
A unique offering, to be sure. But an offering Dusty couldn’t turn down when his friend began to develop the Orangetheory Fitness in 2012 and invited him to come along for the ride that would evolve into an international fitness phenomenon.
“The hardest part of our workouts is showing up - because after that we make it simple for you to push yourself, be your personal best, and give you more.” Results. Confidence. Life. “Because you shouldn’t live to exercise. You should exercise to live.”
SAN CLEMENTE
802 Avenida Pico (949) 485-4885
RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA 22401 Antonio Parkway, D200 (949) 424-8884
Calling all existing Medicare Beneficiaries, are you looking to save some money on either your monthly premiums, your copays, your prescription drug co-pays or perhaps a trifecta and you get all three, then contact me to review your options.
The biggest way to save money is to see if a Medicare Advantage plan would work for you. If it does work, you cancel your Medicare Supplement and Medicare Drug plan for 2022 because a Medicare Advantage plan gives you that type of coverage and financial protection from costly medical bills. These type of plans in Orange County typically have no premium. The savings can be life changing to some people, especially married couples over the age of 70. Medicare supplement plan premiums go up as you get older AND they can also have increases related to the cost of medical care for their members.
Most people on a “standalone” Medicare prescription drug plan don’t realize when their monthly premium increases in the new year
because if they’re taking social security the premium is usually being directly deducted from their social security check. Many insurance companies have either increased their monthly RX plan premium or their annual deductible or both! Have your prescriptions changed since you first enrolled in your current Medicare Drug plan? If they’re expensive medications (in the $40$100 range when you fill them) then it’s time for a review. If you’re on several name brand medications, and you started taking them midyear, chances are that you won’t
hit the “donut hole” this year. But you certainly have a good chance of it next year so you need to make sure that you’re on the best plan in terms of co-pays and avoiding entering the “donut hole aka coverage gap”. Attention Type one diabetics, there is now a Medicare Advantage plan that covers insulin at a $0 copay, even through the coverage gap! No standalone drug plan does that.
Another way to save money is to compare Medicare drug plan premiums for your standalone drug plan. Like I said earlier, many plans have been increasing their premiums year after year. Also, while AEP is NOT the time to change your Medicare supplement plan (The month of your birthday and 2 months following that month is, it’s called the “birthday rule”) it could be a time to get educated about what other carrier’s premiums are for the Medicare supplement plan that you’re on. Medicare Supplement plans are all standardized by the government. A Plan F, Plan G or Plan N, for example, are all the same, no matter what insurance company you use. However, some insurance carriers have upped their game, adding additional benefits such as routine vision and hearing, acupuncture and more to their Medicare supplement plan for a more “value added” experience. The additional premium for these extra benefits are minimal.
The Medicare annual enrollment period (aka AEP) ends December 7th, if you’d like to schedule a no cost Medicare options review contact me soon, my calendar is filling up!
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.
BUSINESS OWNERS: LEARN
HOW TO DEDUCT STATE INCOME TAXES
ABOVE THE $10,000 STATE & LOCAL TAX (SALT) LIMIT.
IMPORTANT TAX PLANNING SEMINAR
IN THIS SEMINAR YOU WILL LEARN:
1. THE RECENT FEDERAL TAX LAW CHANGE THAT ALLOWS BUSINESS OWNERS A WORKAROUND TO DEDUCT STATE & LOCAL TAXES ABOVE THE $10,000 LIMIT
2. WHAT BUSINESS STRUCTURE MUST I OPERATE MY BUSINESS TO QUALIFY FOR THE TAX DEDUCTION
3. KEY FACTORS IN DECIDING WHICH BUSINESS STRUCTURE IS APPROPRIATE FOR MY BUSINESS TO OPERATE IN: S CORPORATION, LLC OR PARTNERSHIP
4. CRITICAL PROCEDURAL STEPS NEEDED TO QUALIFY FOR THE ADDED STATE TAX DEDUCTION INCLUDING THE NECESSARY ELECTION NEEDED
5. WHY I NEED TO ACT QUICKLY TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS NEW TAX BREAK
6. WHY THE BEST PROSPECTS: HAVE LARGE TAXABLE INCOME IN HIGH TAX BRACKETS, ARE TAXPAYERS CURRENTLY TAKING THE STANDARD DEDUCTION OR ARE TAXPAYERS WHO BENEFIT FROM LOWER FEDERAL ADJUSTED GROSS INCOME (AGI)
7. THE PROCESS OF FORMING A CORPORATION OR PARTNERSHIP
8. HOW TO REVIEW YOUR CURRENT AND FUTURE PENSION BENEFITS IN LIGHT OF ANY CHANGES
9. COST/BENEFIT ANALYSIS TO IMPLEMENT ANY CHANGES TO OBTAIN THE ADDITIONAL STATE INCOME TAX DEDUCTION
LOCATION: MARBELLA COUNTRY CLUB, SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
DATE: WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 27
SEMINAR TIMES: 4PM AND 6PM
COST: $49 (WAIVED FOR EXISTING CLIENTS)
Peter Prescott, CPA
Jeffrey Hartmann, Attorney At Law
THIS IS WHERE YOU GO ALL OUT
You are faster here. You are stronger here. And you get more results here. Here you have the coaches, community, and group energy coming together to push you forward every class.
With scientifically designed full-body workouts and technology to track your results and prove you’re improving.
OTF San Clemente 802 Avenida Pico San Clemente, CA 92673 949-485-4885
OTF Rancho Santa Margarita 22401 Antonio Parkway D200 Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688 949-424-8884
RELAXING. SUPPORTIVE. PRESSURE-RELIEVING. WE’RE NOT JUST TALKING ABOUT OUR MATTRESSES.
Our sleep experts are waiting to help you find the products that are perfect for you. Our extensive collections of Tempur-Pedic® mattresses, sleep systems, adjustable bases, pillows and accessories are all available for you to explore and compare in comfort. Come see us and experience the Tempur-Pedic® Flagship difference.
SMARTER DESIGN. THERE’S NOTHING ELSE LIKE IT.
Tempur-Pedic® mattresses and sleep systems are more innovative than ever. Thoughtfully designed, expertly engineered, and rigorously tested against standards that didn’t even exist until we created them. We’re here to help you get comfortable.
WHY BUY IN A TEMPUR-PEDIC® FLAGSHIP STORE?
BOUTIQUE EXPERIENCE
Tempur-Pedic® stores offer semi-private “bed pods” for each mattress that allow you to spend the time you need to learn about, try, and select your mattress.
PERSONALIZED SERVICE
Relaxing. Supportive. Pressure-relieving. (We’re not just talking about our mattresses.) Our highly trained Sleep Ambassadors are there to make sure you have the most comfortable mattress-buying experience possible.
SELECTION
Along with having a wide selection, our Flagship stores are your exclusive destination to try the all-new ACTIVEbreeze.
SPECIAL OFFERS
Top off your very personalized, comfortable shopping experience with offers that you can only get at a Tempur-Pedic® Flagship store. Text MISSION to 75225 or Call 949-268-4311 for store info and hours.
Private Shopping Appointments are also available.
FLAGSHIP STORES
26281 Avery Pkwy., Ste. B Mission Viejo (949) 268-4311
Pro Grill Cleaning
The Perfect Gift for the Hard-to-Buy-For Men in Your Life
By Jody Robinson
My husband is impossible to buy for. Not that he has everything already. Rather, he’s a bit of a minimalist. So if you’re going to give him a gift, it really has to pack a punch.
It wasn’t until I came across Pro Grill Cleaning’s website that I truly understood that there is a perfect gift for all of the difficult-to-buy-for men in my life.
The benefits of having a professional come over to clean your barbecue? What sold me was knowing how
many times we've grilled on the same caked on grease and grime ... ugh. How many times did we scrape those grates with a “clean” grill brush, counting on the extreme heat of the grill itself to clean between rounds of burgers and dogs?
But there’s clean, and then there’s Very Clean, which is where Pro Grill Cleaning comes in. The service can take upwards of four hours to get your barbecue gleaming again. It’s a really dirty job and not really one my husband relishes and I’m not inclined to spend an afternoon scrubbing our built-in or free rolling grill. And truth be told, we’d never get them as clean - it’s a job best left to the professionals.
BBQ cleaning can prolong the life of your grill, give you a cleaner and more hygienic experience grilling, and protect your investment.
The team at Pro Grill will take on any level of mess, and they recommend doing a cleaning at least once a year. Offering variable maintenance plans, you can sign up for a monthly, quarterly, or bi-quarterly service - it just depends on how often you use your grill.
"Barbeques are expensive. If they aren’t maintained, they’ll more easily break down, or corrode and rust," says Owner Daniel Lewis. "BBQ cleaning can prolong the life of your grill, give you a cleaner and more hygienic experience grilling, and protect your investment.” Now, who wouldn’t want that for a gift?
Searching for Shoreline An Ocean of Superior Dental Care along the California Coast
By Jody Robinson
There are roughly 33,200,000 results for “dentists in Orange County” on Google: and yet, there are only about 3 million residents of the county.
Far too many choices when it comes to keeping your dental hygiene in order. Better perhaps, to narrow the search. Welltrained, hospitable, effective, remarkable, full-service, healthy: just some of the keywords I’d use to find the best dentist for myself and my family. Shoreline Dental Studio has it all.
Treating the gamut of dental needs, Dr. Kristen Ritzau, DDS and her team have been working in Orange County for the past eight-and-a-half years, serving over 3,500 patients to date. Helping every client achieve their personal dental goals might sound like a feel-good series of SEO keywords, but Dr. Ritzau and her team are very serious when it comes to creating the most holistic, healthy, longlasting results possible.
“I founded the original Shoreline Dental location in San Clemente in December 2012, hoping to focus on preventative care and family dentistry," she says. "Since then, we’ve
grown from just myself, my husband, and one dental assistant to a team of almost 30 remarkable employees between our two offices.”
On top of being one of the number one Invisalign providers in Orange County, the team at Shoreline Dental Studio prides themselves on the laundry list of services patients can
choose from: total smile makeovers to full mouth reconstruction. Sedation, cosmetics, tooth replacement, oral appliances and more, the burgeoning teams work hard to assess each individual's concerns regarding treatment. During your first visit, you’ll create an effective treatment plan that meets your personal requirements, “even staggering or
From (L):Dr. Luke Facer, Dr. Kristen Ritzau and Dr. Colby Livingston
“Dr. Ritzau and her team are very serious when it comes to creating the most holistic, healthy, longlasting results possible.”
prioritizing your treatments to give you the smile you need in a timeframe you can afford.”
"It's a friendly, welcoming environment," says patient Rhonda H. "They addressed the issue I had come in for and didn't try to upsell me on any unnecessary treatments ... I actually found a dentist's office that I like!"
Another client, Becca B. echoes Rhonda's statement and adds "Best dental experience ever! Everyone is so sweet, caring, knowledgeable and confident. I was super nervous about going to the dentist after not having gone for awhile, but as soon as I stepped into the studio, I knew I was in good, loving hands and had nothing to worry about."
A third-generation resident of San Clemente, Dr. Ritzau believes what sets Shoreline apart (besides the incredible service, friendly staff, and beautiful offices) is that “there is a good chance our patients are family, friends, past teachers, coaches, or even neighbors of mine. Making decisions about health care is incredibly personal: by understanding this, by working in my hometown, we can create the ultimate patient experience for any single person who comes to our office. Period.”
Breath new life into your daily routine.
Now is the perfect moment to carve out time for yourself whether it’s a yoga or boot camp class, lifting weights, running on the treadmill, or treating yourself to a massage and lunch on our patio. At ClubSport, the perfect workout is the one that makes you happy and we have endless options for you to make the most of your day.
(949) 427-4223 or visit www.clubsports.com/start to get started.
Health, Wellness, Longevity... The proven results of Infrared Saunas
By Jody Robinson
Can you feel the crisp in the air? We’re not used to the cold in Southern California, so when the chills start to settle in, we swap the A/C for the heater. But there is a heating alternative that you’ve probably never heard of; and with it comes a wealth of health benefits.
JNH Lifestyles infrared saunas are a modern home technology that uses infrared heaters to increase your body temperature. These saunas provide comfortable, ambient temperatures while gently warming the body from the inside out using infrared technology. Warmth is just a bonus; the health benefits are the bread and butter! Backed by extensive research conducted by scientists around the globe, infrared saunas have a myriad of health benefits! Let’s dive deeper into some customer-favorite benefits:
REDUCE CARDIOVASCULAR RISK
Infrared saunas demand more of your cardiovascular system by increasing your body temperature, which elevates your heart rate up to 120-150 beats per minute; mimicking low to moderate-intensity physical exercise in the circulatory system.
In addition, infrared therapy has been proven to reduce levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides, but increase levels of HDL (good cholesterol). LDL and triglycerides are involved in the onset of cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary heart disease and strokes; higher levels of HDL offer protection against said diseases.
Let’s not forget to mention that high blood pressure is reduced during each sauna session too! As your body releases a chemical called nitric oxide, which is a potent vasodilator (relaxes the muscle in your artery walls), you experience a healthy drop in blood pressure.
Studies also showed that after using infrared saunas, patients had higher levels of endorphins. These chemi-
cals produced in the brain improve your mood and reduce stress, which is tightly linked with high blood pressure and overall heart health.
IMPROVE SKIN HEALTH
As much as we’d all love to turn back time and have our youthful skin, it’s just not in the cards. Still, when infrared waves interact with skin and connective tissue, it stimulates collagen synthesis, and elastin and (most importantly) enhances wound healing. Infrared saunas have also been used to assist in treating eczema and psoriasis lesions due to their ability to reduce inflammation. This is accomplished because infrared waves can inhibit the synthesis and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are associated with flare-ups.
MANAGE CHRONIC PAIN
At some point in our lives, we all suffer from a form of chronic pain. Joint pain is a common type, especially in people over the age of 40. Unfortunately, it’s usually treated with an over-the-counter or prescribed pain
medication, but there are other natural forms of relief.
Did you know athletes and even average individuals have used infrared saunas to prevent and/or relieve pain? Sauna sessions stimulate the body’s natural healing power and processes that promote muscle repair and adaptation. It enables nitric oxide (NO) release, a potent vasodilator that increases lymphatic drainage from the injury site.
This helps minimize swelling and, as a result, relieves pain. Another 2009 study reported that infrared saunas can help regulate the inflammatory nature of rheumatoid arthritis and reduce pain and stiffness after just one session.
In a more recent 2019 study, researchers exposed patients with knee osteoarthritis to infrared waves three times per week for 12 weeks. At the end of the study, these patients had a significant reduction in pain, an improvement in functional activities, and an increase in overall quality of life.
SUPPORT THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
As a health-conscious person, you’ve probably taken steps to improve your immune system with supplements, drinks, a healthy diet and exercise. But did you know an infrared sauna has been associated with an improved function in weakened immune systems?
A study in 2015 compared white blood cell profiles before and after a sauna session. The study found an increase in all types of white blood cells, including lymphocytes, which are the most critical cells in the immune system. Moreover, our bodies naturally release heat shock proteins during sauna sessions. Heat shock proteins are known for helping the immune system fight off viruses that cause the common cold and the flu. No wonder using an infrared sauna regularly is an excellent way for active adults to avoid getting sick.
IMPROVE BLOOD CIRCULATION
Experiencing tingling and numbness (AKA pins & needles) in your limbs can be a frightening experience. These symptoms are typically associated with circulation problems. Infrared saunas can help blood flow throughout your body due to all the changes they elicit in the circulatory system.
By increasing your body temperature, infrared waves increase blood flow, heart rate and vasodilation. This causes your blood vessels to become more pliable, improving blood flow and oxygen throughout.
In light of all the research around infrared saunas, it is recommended that you consult your doctor before trying any new regimen, as individual results may vary. Once you’re given the green light from your physician, visit jnhlifestyles.com to shop for affordable home infrared saunas or call (949) 979-6034. At JNH Lifestyles, their mission is simple - better health leads to a better life, and that’s their hope for you.
The Massage Associates
Celebrating 20 Years in South OC!
By Jody Robinson
There is a beautiful book on writing penned by Haruki Murakami called “What I Talk About When I Talk About Running.” From the title, you’d think it was a book on running.
And it is. But it is also a deep meditation on the act of getting a pure thought on paper, and the intersectional discipline it takes to be good at both: running, and writing. The truly standout feature of the book is its seamlessness. Learning and absorbing without noticing it happen. Michelle Bryant, owner of The Massage Associates in San Juan Capistrano, knows a thing or
two about getting results without her clients seeing the process.
Born and raised in Southern California, Michelle got her degree in Biology from UC San Diego, and moved to Orange County when she got married. In February of this year, she celebrated a special event, and if you guessed her wedding anniversary, well, almost. The Massage Associates have been in business since February of 2001, and while the impact of COVID-19 has put a bit of a damper on celebrations, Michelle and team are more dedicated than ever to providing best in class service, inviting new clients into the community, and helping people feel pain free.
At the outset, “there was me, and one other massage therapist,” says Michelle. “Then we added another, and another as our clientele expanded. We now have 6 massage therapists and specialize in deep tissue, therapeutic massage.” But like Murakami talking about writing when he is talking about running, what she means is that they offer massage as a vehicle to developing relationships with their clients that extend well beyond a typical therapist visit. They specialize in community pain management. “It’s the only way to help you feel better if your needs are known we can tailor our massage to fit.”
I would venture to say that the majority of businesses offering massage
also offer a litany of spa treatments: sauna, facials, skincare treatments, etc. But the beauty of Michelle’s service is that they only offer massage. “We want to specialize in one form of treatment, and do it the best we can.” Need a deep tissue focus on your shoulders but some reflexology on your feet? No problem. Hot stone to relax, with a light stretch and some CBD cream for that recurrent sports injury? “We can do that. And we all work together to make sure that even if one time you can’t see your regular therapist, our other therapists can see the detailed notes on what you like or don’t like so that we can take great care of you.”
The relationships they have built help determine the offerings, the order, and the onus to come back. It isn’t some cookie cutter massage. It’s dedicated, deep, and disciplined time spent on your health, and it is available to you even now, during a global pandemic, due to the focus and flexibility of the team in place.
“In 2019 we received designation as a health care service provider business so we were allowed to stay open during these wild days of the COVID crisis," says Michelle. "People are in pain, people are stressed. And we’ve taken all the CDC precautions and made all the modifications to our office so that our clients feel safe, comfortable, and most importantly, so that nothing interrupts our goal of getting you to total health.”
The experience is total: rich, and revelatory. Much like Murakami’s ode to the road he runs, and that which he writes, this 20th year for Michelle and her team bring constant challenges to be met, and yet also reminds us what we have been celebrating all along: the seamless triumph and trial. An end to pain and the work that gets us there.
The Massage Associates 31952 Camino Capistrano San Juan Capistrano (949) 489-7924
THE RETIREMENT LIFESTYLE AT Reata Glen EARNS
Best OF ORANGE COUNTY DISTINCTION.
Life behind the gates of OC’s Best Retirement Community
Making strides as a young retirement community and growing fast
Not too long after moving to Reata Glen in 2019 to start an exciting new chapter in life, Katheryn Roberson’s husband, Barry, was diagnosed with cancer. As he started undergoing treatment, Katheryn says the staff at the retirement community in Rancho Mission Viejo rose to the occasion.
“The staff bent over backwards for us, and they’re so supportive,” Katheryn says. “There’s such a sense of family here, and it’s really meaningful.”
Of all the well wishes and encouragement, one of the most unlikely but touching came from a staff member who attended a Los Angeles Kings hockey game. It was a special night at STAPLES Center with a tribute to Hockey Fights Cancer™ where players and fans in the stands had signs saying “I Fight For” followed by the name of someone on each sign.
“Among other reviews and recognitions, to earn Best of Orange County is an extraordinary accomplishment for us in just two years of being open,” says Stephanie Riggs, director of marketing and sales at Reata Glen. “We are different than other senior living options, and there’s a great deal of pride among both residents and staff here.”
Barry, who was going through chemotherapy and radiation, was at home with Katheryn watching that game.
“All of a sudden, I received a photo from someone who works here and she’s at the game, standing with a sign that said she’s fighting for Barry,” Katheryn vividly recalls. “Our eyes swelled up upon seeing it, and it was heartwarming.”
It’s just one example of why the Robersons were not surprised that Reata Glen was recently voted in as the “Best Retirement Community in Orange County 2021” by The Orange County Register.
“I went to every senior community in south Orange County to compare when I was looking to make a move,” says resident Kathy Allen, who chose to call Reata Glen home in 2019. “I’m pretty athletic and outgoing, and I wanted socialization. Reata Glen is the future of how my generation acts – we aren’t sitting at home alone feeling sorry for ourselves – we want to be active, healthy and going places. I see Reata Glen as a hybrid between a university, cruise ship and country club.”
Without the burdens of home maintenance and cooking everyday as Kathy enjoys the multiple dining venues at Reata Glen, she now has the freedom and time to get involved in what she really cares about.
We want to be active, healthy and going places.
TO EARN BEST OF ORANGE COUNTY IN JUST TWO YEARS OF BEING OPEN IS AN extraordinary ACCOMPLISHMENT FOR US.
Stephanie Riggs, Reata Glen – Director of Marketing and Sales
Physical attributes, amenities and an abundance of activities stand out
“You could be busier here than you’ve ever been in your life,” Kathy says with a smile. “More than I ever had been before.”
With a fitness center, indoor pool, pickleball and tennis courts, woodshop, and activity rooms for educational, fine arts and fun classes, residents’ calendars are often full.
“They go full bore for parties and events here, and there’s excellent food, too,” notes Katheryn. “I also walk a lot, go to the gym for a class called crash cardio and also write for the monthly newsletter.”
It’s not just enjoying the activities and amenities on the Reata Glen campus, it’s the people you experience them with.
“In the beginning, I didn’t know anyone,” Kathy says. “Now, it’s like being part of an extended family. I love being surrounded by people and friends and not having that alone feeling.”
Intangibles and culture make the difference
“As much as I love my coworkers, I love residents more,” says Karter Farris, who started as a dining server at Reata Glen, then transitioned to EMT safety officer after schooling. “To win Best of Orange County makes me very proud.”
Karter’s team oversees security at the community, and she often wears many hats to serve residents’ needs. She’s a resident favorite, and some have labeled her as the happiest, bubbliest person they know.
“The residents always make me smile,” Karter says. “Even if I come in and I’m not in the greatest mood, they say one thing and it brightens my day up, and I forget why I was bummed.”
Recognized as a Great Place to Work by the Great Place to Work® Institute, Karter says the variety of job opportunities and the bonds with residents make it a fabulous place to start or continue a career.
“There’s a spirit here – we care for each other,” Kathy says. “It is a community, and you feel connected.”
Residents say they also feel safe – even during the challenging times recently.
“Over and over, we’ve said we can’t imagine being anywhere but here when the pandemic hit,” Katheryn adds. “Management did an excellent job, we had peace of mind, and they made it interesting and fun with little surprises and creativity.”
The Reata Glen experience
It’s no coincidence the word Reata translates to a lasso or loop of rope – a fitting representation of the bonds that connect those who live and work at Reata Glen to each other.
Receive an exclusive invitation to attend a lunch presentation and learn about the Reata Glen experience. You can even meet Katheryn, Kathy or Karter firsthand. Call 1-949-529-3134 to find more.
CALENDAR OCTOBER 2021
OC'S PREMIER CONCERT VENUE
TICKETS + RESERVATIONS: (949) 496-8930
OCTOBER
10/1 VENICE
10/2 MICK ADAMS & THE STONES 10/3 WAILERS
10/7 JOURNEYMAN (Eric Clapton Tribute)
10/8 JD SOUTHER
10/9 DESPERADO (Eagles Tribute)
10/10 GEOFF TATE
10/14 JOHN HAITT + JERRY DOUGLAS BAND
10/16 TAPEFACE
10/17 ROBERT EARL KEEN
10/22 THE PETTY HEARTBREAKERS
10/23 OINGO BOINGO - FORMER MEMBERS
10/28 LEROY AND THE BAD BROWNS
10/30 THE WHO’S ZEPPLIN SHOW
NOVEMBER
11/3 THE IMMEDIATE FAMILY 11/4 FIREFALL 11/5 RONSTADT REVIVAL 11/6 FASTBALL 11/7 ATLANTA RHYTHM SECTION 11/10 MARTHA WAINWRIGHT 11/11 JD SIMO / GA-20 11/12 FIVE FOR FIGHTING
11/13 SUPER DIAMOND (Neil Diamond Tribute) 11/14 ULTRAVOX'S MIDGE URE 11/19 YACHTLEY CREW 11/20 WHICH ONE'S PINK? 11/21 COCO MONTOYA 11/26 LA GUNS
11/27 METALACHI
OCTOBER 2ND • 8 PM
MICK ADAMS & THE STONES
“Mick Adams and The Stones®, Rolling Stones Show” is a live, multi-media spectacle that takes you on a musical journey through the career of Rock and Roll’s most celebrated band. Mick Adams and his amazing band deliver a stunning note-for-note theatrical concert event with an all look alike cast ... transporting today's audiences back in time through some of the most exciting moments in the history of Rock music.
OCTOBER 7TH • 8 PM
JOURNEYMAN - A TRIBUTE TO ERIC CLAPTON
The ONLY nationally touring tribute to ERIC CLAPTON! Fronted by Shaun Hague (Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Amos Lee, John Waite), JOURNEYMAN has become the #1 tribute to Clapton in a very short amount of time. The band has been selling hundreds of tickets per night in the Midwest, New England and West Coast. With over 50 years of music to choose from, JOURNEYMAN covers it all – “Layla,” “Badge,” “The Core,” “White Room,” “Lay Down Sally,” “Tulsa Time,” “Cocaine” and many more.
OCTOBER 16TH • 9 PM
AN EVENING WITH
TAPEFACE
Every once in a while, something magical reminds us that we all have an inner child that must be fed. Through simple, clever and charming humor aimed at satisfying that hunger, Tape Face has created one of the most accessible and enjoyable shows the world has ever seen. Mime with noise, stand-up with no talking – drama with no acting.
OCTOBER 30TH • 8 PM
THE WHO’S ZEPPLIN SHOW
WHO’S ZEPPELIN™ is a powerful, realistic tribute to LED ZEPPELIN and THE WHO with a with an incredible resemblance to THE WHO and LED ZEPPELIN both musically and visually.
10/1 VENICE
HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS DAILY
Join friends and family for a delicious dinner, craft cocktail or fine wine at Dana Point’s Favorite Italian Restaurant!
HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS EVERYDAY FROM 3:30-6:00P.M. NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS FOR THE SEASON!
BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY NOW!
“Fine food steeped in tradition, clearly weighted with heart and experience. A place where you’re welcomed like family. And fed like royalty, with only the best dishes from our heritage.”
This is the mission and passion of the owners and staff - whether guests are dining out in the popular Dana Point eatery, hosting a special event at the restaurant or catering a gathering of family and friends in their home.
DINING OUT
For starters, the Antipasto Italiano Platter arrives with an array of flavorful favorites - Prosciutto di Parma, ar-
tisan salame, fresh buffalo mozzarella, Tuscan olives, grilled artichoke hearts, roasted bell peppers and toasted ciabatta bread. A seafood aficionado? Try the Mare Platter which is made for sharing: Buttermilk battered calamari fritti, seared Ahi tuna and blue shrimp scampi.
The wood-fired pizza here is the kind of pie you sip wine with, reflecting on the old country while a hot steam of freshness rises poetically around you.
For heartier appetites, try the Filetto Toscano - USDA Premium choice filet mignon medallions pan roasted and served with a sweet red onion, shallots, Chianti reduction and melted fontina cheese or favorites like the Rigatoni Casa Brio characterized by grilled chicken breast, caramelized onions, roasted garlic, baby spinach, cremini mushrooms, sweet baby peas and fresh basil topped with fresh buffalo mozzarella.
Brio Tuscany Grill has an incredible selection of fine wines (and a full premium bar), great nightly specials and the kind of attentive-yet-unobtrusive service that makes any meal that much more enjoyable.
CATERED EVENTS
Hosting a special event? Brio can accommodate up to 110 guests in a lovely space ideal for any occasion from bridal showers and engagement dinners to birthday parties and corporate events. Seeking a more intimate experience? Private Chef’s Tables are also available where chef prepares a special five-course meal for you and your guests.
All in One Fun at the ResortCatamaran Hotel in San Diego's Mission Bay
BY JODY ROBINSON
My husband and I like to joke that we run an after-hours speakeasy out of our home. When the kids are finally asleep for the night and the dishes are all done, we bust out the fancy cheese and crackers, open a bottle of wine, and unfurl the tin foil around a decadent bar of dark chocolate. Of course, we have to hide the evidence from prying eyes, so in the morning we don’t have to answer questions about the chocolate wrapper, wine cork, or ice cream scoop. We laughed at each other the other day while cleaning up the evidence of our adults-only snacktime when we agreed that the best gift we could give each other was a night in a hotel room, so there weren’t any dishes to do, and plenty of activities during the day to keep our ourselves - and our offspringentertained.
San Diego’s Mission Bay happens to be the answer to our giftgiving conundrum, as well as the speakeasy solve: a close-to-home, family friendly travel destination that happens to have everything we need for a getaway after the last chaotic year and a half. Classically beautiful weather year round makes
San Diego one of the country’s most desirable vacation destinations, and with its proximity to Orange County and LA, a quick drive down the coast is as easy as can be. The man-made saltwater bay was created from more than 2,000 acres of wetlands and marshes, and boasts activities ranging like theme parks like Seaworld and an old fashioned roller coaster at Belmont Park to water activities.
Mission Bay’s Catamaran Resort is perched in popular "PB" - what the locals call Pacific Beach, and with gorgeous rooms facing out to the Bay, or over the glittering Pacific, every accommodation offers a beautiful view. Over 1,000 tropical trees and plants adorn the property, making it a proper urban jungle hideaway: koi ponds included. The resort's tropical vibe artfully blends with the Aloha spirit where each of the property’s 310 luxurious suites, studios and hotel rooms feature a private balcony or patio with breathtaking views of Mission Bay, the Pacific Beach neighborhood and coastline, or the property’s lush tropical gardens.
A Polynesian-themed resort wouldn’t be complete without the aforementioned robust list of water based activities, and the Catamaran certainly comes through. If Mom or Dad are feeling the fitness center or on-site spa, options include facials and massages, marine and botanical-
based products to take home and luxuriate in, or a full range of stateof-the-art exercise equipment to fuel your day. Various watersports abound on property, with the waters of the bay beckoning beyond (think boat rentals, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding and more via actionsportrentals.com/ catamaran-resort-hotel-spa located right at the resort's water's edge). Prefer
land activiites? One of the best ways in which to enjoy San Diego's premier land and sea resort destination? Simply basking bayside in a covered lounge.
Our family opted for a lovely, leisurely late afternoon tooling around the bay aboard a pair of funcats - chaiselounge style electric catamaran boats, followed by an equally equisite dining experience at the resort's signature restaurant, Oceana Coastal Kitchen. There was something for every palate on the menu - abundant seafood selections for me, beef and chicken entrees for my meat-and-potatoes husband and a variety of kid-friendly faves including delicious flatbreadsthe sweet fennel sausage and classic pepperoni was a big hit!
A beach concierge can set the family up with umbrellas, towels, and chairs, or simply spend the day poolside: surrounded by the resort’s towering palm trees. The best part about all of it being (of course) that you don’t have to hide the candy wrappers at the end of the night, because the whole family gets to escape at the same time. CATAMARAN
3999 Mission Blvd. San Diego (858) 488-1081 www.CatamaranResort.com
Oceana Coastal Kitchen
Insurance 101 Services
I can’t help you if you don’t call - my services are free! Your lnsuranceEducation.com
AEP- It’s About Saving You Money
Calling all existing Medicare Beneficiaries, are you looking to save some money on either your monthly premiums, your co-pays, or your prescription drug copays?
The biggest way to save money is to see if a Medicare Advantage plan would work for you. If it does meet your needs, then you cancel your Medicare Supplement and Medicare Drug plan for 2022 because the Medicare Advantage plan gives you that type of coverage and financial protection from medical bills. You’re no longer paying a premium for Medicare Supplement or a Medicare RX plan if you decide to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. These plans in Orange County typically have no premium.
In regards to a “standalone” Medicare RX plan, some plans used to not have a name brand drug deductible and now they do. Have your prescriptions changed since you enrolled in your current Medicare RX plan? If they’re expensive medications (in the $40-$100 range when you fill them) then it’s time for a review. (FYI, Type 1 diabetics: there are Medicare Advantage plans that cover insulin at a $0 co-pay now, for the entire year!) The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (aka AEP) ends December 7th, if you’d like to schedule a no cost Medicare options review contact me soon, my calendar is filling up!
8 GUMMIES BY HABIT
Delta 8 gummies will bring on a mellow cerebral experience and a relaxed physical sensation, complete with a mouthwatering taste and texture. Delta 8 is the calmer brother of THC and will have you feeling right without the anxiety of traditional THC. Derived directly from hemp CBD, these products are legal in California.
It’s Not Epoxy, It’s SpartaFlex!
For nearly 40 years, southern California homeowners have used Epoxy for garage and industrial floor coating projects despite its tendency to yellow, it’s soft and easy to scratch surface and it’s tendency to be permanently damaged by the hot, high performance tires found on most cars in the OC area.
Today OC homeowners don’t have to settle for Epoxy and all of its flaws anymore. SpartaFlex is an advanced, next generation 100% solids polyaspartic floor coating that gives your garage a beautiful finish that is 3x harder than epoxy, resists yellowing while also resisting permanent damage from hot tires. Perhaps best of all, SpartaFlex comes with a much better warranty than Epoxy.
Perkins Custom Coatings has been installing SpartaFlex on OC garage floors for nearly 12 years and has completed over 8,000 floors during that period of time. Its CEO and owner, Paul Frankel is considered by many to be the most knowledgeable contractor in the local market. “Unlike many of our competitors, we strive to do an onsite assessment including a moisture test for every floor coating project we install and instead of using the ‘one size fits all’ approach, we develop a coating solution that we believe will last for decades not just for a few years.”
Perkins uses only the most advanced surface preparation methods available and will either diamond grind or shot blast every floor that he installs. Old, failing, yellowed ep-
oxy coatings can also be removed during this same process. “Despite the fact that Coatings Industry requires concrete to at least be diamond ground before installing a new coating system, many of my competitors will install their coatings right over raw or pressure washed concrete just to save a few bucks - I will never do that” says Paul.
Perkins also is known for its professional and unique approach to repairing concrete cracks. “Anyone can slap some crack repair paste to cosmetically fix a crack” says Paul. A year later, when the concrete moves again and damages their brand new floor coating, the devastated homeowner will learn that this damage is not covered by the typical Epoxy warranty. “We are the only company that I know of that uses a ‘structural crack repair’ technique to fix cracks. The process is so effective we can offer our customers a warranty that can cover future damage from cracks!” says Paul.
After the surface prep is completed, a very effective moisture control primer is applied to the concrete. “This is extremely important” says Paul because for many homes built in Socal before 2005, elevated moisture vapor levels in the garage concrete can have a detrimental impact on floor coatings. Paul does a fast and non-destructive moisture test for every one of the pre-2005 homes he visits and develops a unique installation plan for each home. For newer homes, Paul and his crew can use a basic primer that dries a bit faster allowing installation of a garage floor in as little as one day!
The color chips that give the Perkins floor its legendary appearance are sandwiched between this primer and finish coat. Perkins carries the widest selection of colors and sizes in the market and uses a ‘full chip broadcast’, not a partial sprinkling of chips like many of its competitors. “The full chip broadcast gives the floor a consistent appearance and makes the floor much more durable and helps hide dirt better than the partial broadcast finish” says Paul.
Finally, Perkins installs the SpartaFlex polyaspartic finish coat and the finished garage comes to life. “Epoxy & SpartaFlex floor coatings are virtually identical in appearance when they are first installed” says Paul. “However, when you will really begin to appreciate your SpartaFlex floor is a few months down the road when you start to see problems develop with your Epoxy floor. If there was a better material on the market, I would be selling it, but there isn’t and that is why we love selling SpartaFlex.”
For more information or to see for yourself the advantages of SpartaFlex over Epoxy, you can call Perkins Custom Coatings, at 866-330-1DAY (1329) or visit their informative website at www.perkinscustomcoatings.com.
“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
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
By Jody Robinson
South County Coverage Insurance for All with Jonathan Bayani GEICO Laguna Niguel
There are very few things that throw people off balance more easily than an accident. Be it at home, in the car, or on the water, an accident can ruin a day, a week, or even a year for the uninsured. For the last 85 years, your safety and that of your family has been GEICO’s ultimate priority, and for Agency Owner Jonathan Bayani and his team of licensed agents at the GEICO local office in Laguna Niguel, carrying that mission on is about much more than offering competitive rates.
Bayani and his team strive to serve South OC residents with elite and tailored customer service curated over the last twenty years in the auto and insurance industries. Customers can purchase car insurance, as well as coverage for renters, condos, RV’s, boats,
and commercial vehicles. Identity protection, jewelry, and homeowners are also among the list of offerings GEICO boasts: a far cry from the original single policy auto coverage GEICO founders Leo and Lillian Goodwin offered clients in 1936 when they first opened their doors.
“As the father of three children, looking after the wellbeing of my family is top priority,’ says Bayani. “Insurance is integral to every industry and after serving the San Diego Padres and seeing how closely knit the players and their families are to their individual coverage, I wanted to bring what I learned to everyday folks in my own community.”
A bilingual team of agents, the office in Laguna Niguel will look to bring
savings to each client that walks through their doors. “We have special association and alumni discounts for graduates of UCLA, SDSU, UCI, CUSF, CSULB, USC and other local schools.” Active duty military serving at Camp Pendleton may also qualify for GEICO’s military discount.
Accidents or incidents can derail even the best laid plans, but they don’t have to. GEICO has been proving that for 85 years, and Jonathan and his team are here to back you up for those to come.
