HUGE DISCOUNT ON DIAMONDS FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE
22 Years In the same Location
ADVER TISER TESTIMONIALS
"When I initially participated in South County Magazine hoping to increase awareness of my product I had no idea the impact it would have! I couldn't be happier with the tremendous exposure and great response " - Kathy Dahl Crifasi, Hipzbag, San Clemente
Our participation with South County Magazine has helped take our business to the next level South County Magazine has become an integral part of our marketing campaign " - Nicole Howard and Cara Fraser, Align Pilates Center
"The results of our advertising placement in South County Magazine has been amazing!" - Ruth Weiss, Coastal Consignment, San Juan Capistrano
My first thought about South County Magazine is that the magazine staff are the nicest, most thoughtful, professional business people you could meet Mix these attributes with the niche geographic demographics the magazine targets, makes South County Magazine a must for any advertiser looking to grow and connect with the communities the magazine serves - Ivar E. Roth DPM/MPH, Concierge Podiatry
"My participation has already far exceeded my expectations and has been better than any other magazine advertising I've done I feel the Community Publications team really cares about helping me grow my business They were extremely fast in creating my ad design very easy to work with and I've found them to be people who do what they say they will which is exactly the type of business relationship I am looking for in a marketing partner " - Jonny Coates, Talega Window Washing
"We have been rewarded with significant new business thanks to being part of South County Magazine We don t feel like advertisers - we feel like partners! There is always something wonderfully new with this publication that sets them apart from the others which allow us to meet fellow business owners and we all work together to strengthen our businesses and gain new quality clients Thank you, South County Magazine!” –Lana Farfan, Caught in the Moment Photography
We have advertised in South County Magazine since its inception Our investment paid dividends from the beginning The magazine’s balance between advertising and editorial content make it great showcase for our services We appreciate the outstanding customer ser vice we have received from Jody and Heather and look for ward to a long relationship " - Larry Thomas, First Vice President, Independence Bank, San Juan Capistrano
"Our experience with South County Magazine Jody Robinson and her team has been such a wonderful and enriching endeavor Jody's professionalism and passion is what makes her so good at what she does! She is establishing herself within the community, which in turn gives her magazine and its advertisers, such great exposure The response to our initial ad was beyond our expectation and has already enhanced our business substantially The customer service that she provides is personal and dedicated and you get the feeling that she truly wants you to succeed " - Diana Daly, Capistrano Consignment, San Juan Capistrano
“When Ricardo and I began participating two years ago, we knew that our relationship with South County Magazine and its publisher, Jody Robinson, would not just be one of business but one based on friendship and similar ideologies on how to better our community - whether it is in the classroom, on the soccer field, on stage, or promoting non-profit organizations
Jody’s philosophies about community and philanthropy mirror our own and we knew that if we didn’t support this magazine we would be missing out on a golden opportunity We are proud to partner with South County Magazine and are grateful to be featured within the pages of this impressive publication Jody s dedication to the community is immeasurable and we here at Ricardo s Place will continue to support her endeavors in any possible way ” - Ricardo and Rosa Beas, Ricardo’s Place, San Juan Capistrano
For the Month of June Only
Gluten-free people, I bet you’re sick of two things 1 Gluten (sorry, I had to) and 2 Driving from store to store to get your grocery shopping done Allow me to introduce you to San Clemente’s stellaLucy Gluten Free Market.
Some of you might have known about stellaLucy since its doors opened in 2008 Since April of this year, it has been under new ownership and is now run by San Clemente resident Victoria Elizarraraz Victoria made it her mission to make her market the most convenient, affordable and all-encompassing place for not only gluten-free shoppers, but for those who are soy-free, dairy-free, nut-free, egg-free, corn-free and vegan.
stellaLucy Gluten Free Market
by Heather Evans
But what inspired her to open such a unique store? “After many years in the corporate world, I was inspired by the concern for my health and that of my family,” Victoria states “After the birth of our son, Sebastian, my husband and I began to focus more on reading food labels and seeking out the best nutrition I had a desire to work directly with people in an atmosphere that contributes positively to other’s lives,” she continues.
Victoria knew she wanted to give customers more than just a great place to shop, she wanted to make sure those who worked at the store were either gluten-free themselves or were incredibly educated on the subject “I wanted to hire people who truly understood our customer’s needs,” Victoria says
With a reputaion for having the best selection of gluten-free beer available, stellaLucy is also becoming known for their large variety of gluten free personal care items They plan to carry a large selection of fresh baked goods made locally by Dream Sweets Baking Co , as well as artisan breads that rival fine bakery breads, all sans-gluten
“We have a sincere desire to help and educate everyone who walks into our store. We stock only quality products that benefit our customer’s restricted diets,” she adds
Connect with Victoria and her staff at stellaLucy Gluten Free Market at 110 S. El Camino Real in San Clemente or call (949) 542-4631. While their website is currently under construction, visit them on facebook for more information and special savings
MENOPAUSE • PERIMENOPAUSE PMS • ANDROPAUSE
WHAT IS MENOPAUSE?
3,500 women enter menopause ever y day in the United States. Menopause is identified as no menstrual cycle for 12 months, but symptoms can be as long as 15 years before the cessation of menses.
WHAT IS PERIMENOPAUSE?
Perimenopause is a highly individual experience. When and how it begins, and how long it las varies widely. Perimenopause, the five to seven years leading up to menopause, is a natural transition in a woman’s life between the ages of 40 and 55.
WHAT IS MALE ANDROPAUSE?
Once it was known as a man having a “Mid-Life Crisis.’’ If you are a male over 40, you may be experiencing this condition which now has a medical name - andropause. Approximately 25 million men experience this condition which can be defined by its nickname “ADAM,’’ which stands for Androgen Decline in the Aging Male. FEATURED ON
❍ Decreased Work Performance
❍ Decrease in Cognitive Function
❍ Loss of Memor y or Concentration
❍ Sad or Grumpy “Grumpy Old Man Syndrome’’
❍ Depression
❍ Irritability, Anger or Bad Temper
❍ Feelings of Being Over Stressed
❍ Anxiety or Ner vousness
❍ Decreased “Enjoyment of Life’’
❍ Decrease in Sex Drive
❍ Erectile Dysfunction
❍ Weight Gain
❍ Decrease in Muscle Mass
❍ Decrease in Strength
❍ Decrease in Endurance
❍ Fatigue
❍ Loss of Height
❍ Deterioration in Sports Ability
❍ Falling Asleep After Dinner
❍ Stiffness & Pain in Joints & Muscles
❍ Hot Flashes
❍ Memor y Lapses
❍ Insomnia
❍ Anxiety
❍ Irritability
❍ Loss of Sexual Interest
❍ Painful Intercourse
❍ Urinar y Leakage
❍ Bloating
❍ Burning Tongue
❍ Snoring
❍ Lower Back Pain
❍ Aching Ankles, Knees, Wrists, Shoulders & Heels
❍ Weight Gain
❍ Night Sweats
❍ Mood Swings
❍ Lower Back Pain
❍ Depression
❍ Migraine Headaches
❍ Vaginal Dr yness
❍ Vaginal Itching
❍ Osteoporosis
❍ Fatigue
❍ PMS
(Pardon My Screaming)
❍ Sore Breasts
❍ Gassy
❍ Hair Loss
❍ Hair Growth on Face
Big box retailers, the professed champions of value, are happy to sell you any home theater and sound equipment you think you might like, and send you off to figure it out at home. That’s what they do And that’s all they do
If you want the home theater system that you envision, you need Skip Myers of ReelTime Sight & Sound, the guy you can lean on to take you from start to finish for the home theater or sound system of your dreams.
“Usually there is a part of the job that you find you just can’t do by yourself,” says Skip, who has overseen the design and installation of thousands of home theater and sound systems over the course of forty years in the business “You get your brand new television home, you’re so excited, then you realize you need to move an outlet or none of the cabinets you can find will fit your space. We’re here to make sure you get the equipment that will give you what you want and the system that will work with that equipment, without leaving you to fend for yourself.”
Breaking free from the big box for your perfect home theater system
by Betsy
Sanz
cover photography by Xuong Do, Happy Photos
When you started planning for your ultimate home theater set-up and sound system, did you plot your perfect flat screen location and find that the outlets were placed at exactly the right distance, with the perfect electrical scenario for everything you wanted to do? Could you find the right media cabinetry for your particular space – cabinetry that wouldn’t catch on fire from the heat of the equipment, or that would simply look good in the room? Did you understand half of what the televisions, receivers and other devices could do, and did you have anyone to hold your hand to make sure you weren t overspending for what you wanted?
Yeah, neither did I
Skip opened the doors at ReelTime Sight & Sound in 1983 Today, the technicians and designers that Skip assigns to clients are all ReelTime Sight & Sound employees, knowledgeable in all home theater and sound technologies. First, they work closely with you to determine what you’re looking for Then they custom design every aspect of the project, from wiring to custom-built cabinets, frames, or built-in wall designs Finally, licensed, in-house contractors install your enter tainment system with care and precision
There are a couple of things that people may not think about when they embark upon the road to their own home entertainment system.
“You need to think about your home theater goals,” says Skip “You don’t have to do everything at once – you can do it bit by bit – but if you know where you’re going, you’ll save money and when it’s all said and done, you’ll have exactly what you want and what you will actually use. We’re here to help you determine your goals.”
Skip is also an advocate for getting what you’ll use, which is part of the design and planning process
“You can buy everything you want to, but if you can’t operate it, what’s the point?” he says. “There’s the television, DVD and Blue-ray; there’s the receiver, there’s Apple TV it’s all great, but how do you get them to work together? We’re big advocates of the universal remote Not everyone knows how to get the most out of their systems with one powerful remote – they’re not expensive, but the best ones are computer-based. We’ll set that up for you so you’re getting the most out of your custom system ”
t’s easy to assume that personal service is expensive, but a conversation with Skip and the experts at ReelTime Sight & Sound is free. Ultimately, in planning your purchases for the right outcome, you’re likely to save money while avoiding chilling setbacks. The only chilling you want to be doing is in front of your fantasy home theater system
Skip and JoAnne Myers
Weight Loss & Obesity
by Dr. Karl J. Gebhard, MD, MS
Q: How do I know if I’m overweight, and what is a ‘BMI’?
A: Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple screening tool for obesity Its calculated using your weight (kg)/ [height in meters] ², and it helps estimate your degree of body fat. A BMI > 30 is considered obese in an adult. Keep in mind that muscle weighs more than fat, so an athletic person might have a higher BMI. Additional ways to measure body fat include skin fold thickness measurements and bioelectrical impedance The average male is about 18-25% fat, and female about 25-30%
Q: I’m a ‘little’ overweight, what’s the big deal? I feel fine anyway.
A: Obesity is associated with medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, fatty liver, and certain cancers You may not feel bad until it’s too late Many people who are obese have ‘Syndrome X’ (Metabolic syndrome), and is defined as having a waist circumference of > 40 inches in men, or > 35 inches in women, elevated blood pressure, fasting blood sugar > 110, high cholesterol, and insulin resistance The excess fat cells are resistant to the insulin which is secreted by your pancreas; this results in poor metabolism of glucose and eventually diabetes. In the initial stages of your disease, you may not feel any symptoms, but there is damage being done to your body tissues. Think of a car running fine for the moment, but a yellow “check engine” light keeps flashing It’s best to address these issues now with your physician
Q: I exercise and started walking more, but I can’t seem to lose weight, what’s wrong?
A: There is only one way to lose weight, burn more calories than you consume. Often people will underestimate their caloric intake I recommend using a daily notebook (or fitness/diet program on your computer/hand held device) to keep a food log of everything you eat At the end of the day you will have a total amount of calories consumed, and from this you can subtract the calories you burned that day For example if you consumed 2000 calories, and burned 2500 calories you will be ‘net negative 500 calories’ for the day. One pound of fat contains 3500 calories, so after one week you will have lost 1 pound of fat.
Its important to engage in activities you enjoy. For the average weight adult, a brisk walk will burn about 300 calories / hr, and swimming slow freestyle laps about 500 calories/ hr. Gradual weight loss is recommended, about 4-5 lbs/month. Extreme diets, ‘juicing’, and rapid weight loss are not recommended and may be harmful causing serious electrolyte disturbances and heart arrthymias
The goal is to achieve and maintain a body weight that optimizes your health
She might look just like anyone else but make no mistake; Katy Fetters isn’t your average girl Besides her beautiful blonde locks, athletic figure and knockout smile, Katy is a serious dose of courage and inspiration for many, many teens across the world
Ms. Unfettered
by Heather Evans
with shorts on, it’s hard to tell the difference in her legs But like any average teenager, the smallest things can become the most stressful and insecurities run amok
In fact, insecurity is where her strength began. “I remember having a particularly bad breakdown about something a few years ago,” recalls Katy. “My mom sat me down and gave me some tough love. She told me to write a list of five things I loved about myself It was so hard to do, I couldn’t really think of five things I got through whatever was upsetting me, but my mom told me to be the person that you want to be That had a great effect on me ”
And about those efforts?
Katy has cerebral palsy.
Katy’s the voice behind the very popular blog: teencerebralpalsy com, a site that has over 15,000 viewers a month and half a million page views Katy’s been featured on the TV series “Live Life and Win,” and graced the pages of the OC Register S a few awards for efforts, including The Macintosh Education Award for ‘’Outstanding Commitment to the Disabled Community in Orange County’’ in 2010 and most recently the “Outstanding Youth Award,” awarded at The National UCP Convention in San Diego
It wasn’t long after that Katy was hanging out with her longtime friend Greg Greiner (currently a Junior at Stanford) when an amazing idea was born “I love to write, so Greg suggested I start a blog I didn’t know where o start He’s computer savvy, so he built he whole site for me. That’s when eencerebralpalsy.com was born,” she aid.
aty’s blog has quickly become the go-to ace for teens with cerebral palsy and ose in need of support. “It inspires me to now that we all have such similarity in the ings we worry and feel insecure about. e learned my words and advice have wer, and I love being able to help people,” ty says Katy reads every email that mes her way, and gives advice when she n. “Some girls want to know simple things how they can get a boy to like them, escially because they aren’t feeling pretty of their CP Others want to know how to rcome an embarrassing situation like ping, or just how to fit in I always say to be yourself, and be true to that, and to be honest and open. Sometimes I get the occasional email I can’t answer. For example, someone wrote in and said they wanted advice about learning to drive with hand controls Since I don’t have experience with that, I shared the question on my TeenCP facebook page We’ve become a great, supportive online community It’s wonderful to host a place where we don’t judge We just accept and help each other,” she adds
Don’t let that title fool you, Katy’s hardcore She plays soccer, runs, works out, and I’m pretty sure she’s in better shape than most of us Although Katy doesn’t have severe cerebral palsy, she’s still affected by it Although completely mobile, her left side responds slightly slower than her right. She suffers from some balance issues, and when she’s nervous her left leg gets very twitchy. Even
Katy says she’s come this far and grown this much because of her amazing family “They inspire me to be the best version of myself and to have no shame My family raised me to never think of myself differently ” Although Katy has overcome so many personal obstacles, seeing herself on TV really set her back “I kept thinking to myself, ‘do I really look like that?’ ‘Do I really walk like that?’ But then I just
work for an amazing cause should not hesitate to contact her. Anyone of any background is encouraged to visit her blog and access her free resources and online community.
started crying because I realized how proud of myself I was for having the courage to do the television show I’ve learned to just be positive and let things go ”
Now a sophomore at Soka University in Aliso Viejo, Katy is fur thering herself by studying Liberal Ar ts and focusing on the humanities Taking classes in media studies and writing, Katy loves to learn more about what she can do to help others. “I’d love to be a writer,” she says. “Especially if that involves music. Music is my passion, and I love the creative process. My dream job would be to become a lyricist ”
Katy is wise beyond her years, and at the very core, the kindest person you could hope to meet. When I asked her how she felt about her amazing impact she said she loved being part of a solution, and knowing her words have positive power in people’s lives That’s when she said this to me:
“It’s not what I’ve done, it’s what I’m doing.”
And that’s exactly how we all should live.
Life without Limits: United Cerebral Palsy of OC
For sixty years, United Cerebral Palsy of Orange County has earned a reputation for providing a wide range of vital services and innovative therapies that improve individual well-being, promote inclusion into society at all levels, and support nearly 4,000 families touched by disabilities annually. At its "Life Without Limits Therapy Center" in Irvine, UCPOC uses a multidisciplinary model to serve the needs of children with disabilities for the life course so they can live a Life Without Limits For more info, visit www.ucp-oc.org
From (L): Daisy, 17, Katy, 20, Mattison, 22, Mom Carolyn, Dad Paul, and twin sister Sara, 20
Lending Opportunities in South Orange County
by C. Lawrence "Larry" Thomas
As our South Orange County economy improves, our local businesses turn their attention to preparing for more prosperous times This preparation may be in the form of remodeling or purchasing their facility, adding to inventory, buying new equipment, or restructuring their financing to accommodate growth Similarly, investors have renewed interest in purchasing commercial and multi-family real estate.
Clearly these businesses need a solid banking relationship to finance this preparation. The good news is that many banks have money to lend for these purposes It is true, however, that, as a result of the recession, banks and banking regulators, have become more cautious; resulting in tightened underwriting criteria
This caution should not be a deterrent to potential borrowers. A customer-oriented bank will help businesses find solutions to their financing needs.
At Independence Bank we offer a range of financing solutions for businesses, investors, and individuals The focus, however, is on business lending, owner occupied commercial real estate, and investor owned commercial and multi-family real estate Experienced bankers work with businesses and investors to find the solution that is right for them.
A few examples of business credit facilities commonly employed:
• Commercial Revolving Lines of Credit – used to help aid businesses with working capital needs and to bridge the gap between when they collect receivables and when they must pay their bills Financing inventory for future sale and payment is also a common usage for this financing
• Commercial Asset Based Lines of Credit – these are short-to-mid-term lines to support rapid growth or seasonal issues. These lines are usually larger and require collateralization by an asset base built to support such a facility C. Lawrence “Larr y” Thomas
At Independence Bank we offer a range of financing solutions for businesses, investors, and individuals
• Commercial Term Loans - a longer term credit that is used to suppor t expansion (including real estate), improvements to business facilities, equipment, and the acquisition of going concerns or specific assets (products or inventories).
• Commercial Savings Secured Loans – a low cost method of procuring a credit facility that may otherwise not be possible to grant due to the affects of the recession An important use of this facility is to rebuild credit. It does, however, require the deposit of cash into an offsetting time deposit account
• Owner-occupied Commercial Real Estate – used for the financing of business facilities that will be occupied 51% by the borrower; including new facilities or re-financing existing ones.
Lending Products for investors include:
• Commercial Real Estate – used to purchase or refinance commercial buildings and other commercial facilities.
• Multi-family – used to purchase or refinance multi-family residential properties with a minimum of five residential units.
These lending products are offered by experienced bankers with a long record of service to Orange County businesses
Our South Orange County economic outlook is looking up. It is time for all of the businesses in this area to find ways to work together Financing, properly administered, is one of the keys to success Here at Independence Bank you will find bankers who try to help businesses in innovative ways while holding to the highest banking standards
SPOTLIGHT ON:
this. We have candid conversations about realistic price points and then exceed those targets with multiple offers. For this reason, we have had tremendous success with referrals and repeat business," comments Matt.
OC Real Estate 411 & Design to Sell
by Heather Evans
Orange County real estate is certainly a hot topic these days With a rapid turnaround in inventory and prices going up, OC Real Estate 411 was ready for the change Robyn and Matt Webb knew it was easy to become licensed real estate agents. When they started their company in 2004, they decided they wanted to do much more than the traditional real estate brokerage. They wanted to provide a professional, elite and intelligent approach to the residential real estate industry
With their strong business acumen and MBA's from USC, they wanted to focus their real estate practice on bringing profitability and value to their clients The result of their unique journey and business practices has earned them among the most trusted and respected reputations in the region.
The Webbs, who have successfully owned and operated OCRealEstate411 since 2004, hail from a long history of local real estate professionals Matt’s mother ran a real estate company in Montana, and Robyn’s mother owned and operated a Century 21 franchise for 11 years, as well as owned and operated a property management company for 40 years. “I guess you could say it’s in our blood,” says Robyn with a laugh.
But what qualities set them apart from others in the field? “Integrity and diligence Our clients know we are working around the clock for them, and that their home, and consequently the return they will realize when selling it, is our intense focus More importantly, we never tell our clients what they want to hear. We have lost many listings because we refuse to play the game of ‘buying the listing ’ One of the oldest (and most successful) techniques of prominent real estate agents is to promise a sale price far from reality The seller gets excited and signs the listing agreement Over the next few months, that agent builds rapport with the Seller and perhaps blames the market or some other external influence for the lack of acceptable offers We refuse to do
Another interesting aspect to the San Juan Capistrano-based OCRelEstate411 is that they repare for the “emoonal reaction” of buyrs They know how to voke excellence from our home “What we are oing differently is makg the sale price of your home a complete anomaly. With our Design To Sell approach, we are preparing the house for sale in a way no one else can. Having shown literally thousands of homes, Matt and I have a unique understanding of buyer preferences and emotional reaction. This isn't just home staging – we are giving homes mini-makeovers by making recommendations for aesthetic improvements with significant ROI We manage the project on behalf of the client, so they are essentially getting the services of a General Contractor, Interior Designer and Stager for free. The sequence is critical so that the homeowner doesn' t spend any money where they shouldn' t To reduce risk and build trust, we tie our commission directly to the results of the sale of the home, and the Seller sets our target!"
"We are truly focused on the client's return on their investment Yes, a house is a home, and there are emotional ties. But when it comes to selling your home, and paying a real estate agent to do it, there must be VALUE in hiring that real estate agent In our current, low-inventory market, any realtor can sell any reasonably priced home The important part for the Seller in choosing that real estate agent, will be hiring the one that will truly earn their commission," adds Matt.
One of their recent case studies speaks to their amazing strategy "We had the proper ty appraised prior to implementing our re co m m e n d a t i o n s, and it appraised for
Thinking of buying or selling a home? Call Robyn or Matt directly at (714) 328-5999 or visit www.ocrealestate411.com to review their extensive, impressive collection of similar successful case studies.
$2,657,000. The Seller set our target at $2,850,000, thus asking us to deliver a sale price approximately $200K over appraised value," Robyn explains The Seller gave Matt and Robyn a budget of $30,000. Ten thousand of this was needed for home repairs and maintenance, while the other $20,000 was used for their Design To Sell aesthetic improvements What happened next is nothing short of incredible. They sold the home in 24 hours for $3.1 million, cash The escrow was 15 days and the buyers waived all contingencies, including appraisal
But it doesn’t take tens of thousands for the Webbs to work their magic. “Our average client gives us a budget of about $3000 Even if a seller has a small budget of only $500, we can put that to work for an amazing result. The importance of proper staging and home preparation for sale should not be underestimated. The United States Housing and Urban Development reports that a staged house sells, on average, for 17% higher than an un-staged house,” comments Robyn. Only 10% of homebuyers can actually visualize the potential of a home
"Many homeowners want to fix their home up, and then call the real estate agent," says Robyn "We can' t stress enough that they should call us first Not only will we spare them from spending money where they shouldn't, but we can provide significant savings with our excellent roster of contractors and service providers. And with our commission guarantee, they are able to reduce risk, sit back and enjoy a spectacular result "
Gyrokinesis® at Align Pilates
by Cara Fraser
At Align Pilates Center, we are committed to fostering health and wellness through proper exercise, not just fitness While Pilates and yoga are the most commonly practiced mind/body exercise methods, Gyrokinesis® is another method that is rapidly graining popularity that can produce similarly profound results
Developed by former dancer Juliu Horvath, Gyrokinesis® is a unique practice of three-dimensional movement patterns performed with rhythm, fluidity and breathing techniques. This approach systematically and gently works the joints and muscles through rhythmic and undulating movements. Exercises work the entire body through natural elements of spinal movement and joint articulation Postures are smoothly and harmoniously connected with breath, making exercises appear and feel more like dance, swimming, or flow-style yoga
While seated on low stools, participants mobilize the spine through a series of arching, curling, bending, twisting and spiraling movements. These same movement patterns are expanded to release the hip, knee, hamstring, quadriceps and so on, in all possible directions The corresponding breathing patterns stimulate the nervous system, open up the energy pathways, and oxygenate the blood All Gyrokinesis® - from beginner to advanced - encompass not only sitting, but also lying and standing positions. This combination results in total body conditioning and balancing with a renewed sense of vitality and well-being.
“Before you know it, your spine is supple, your joints resilient, your muscles powerful, your mind relaxed, and your spirit energized,” says Christine Baltes, master teacher specializing in jazz dance technique “Decompress your joints, shape your muscles, and stimulate your organs by means of rhythmic, harmonious movement that will leave you feeling wonderful ” Experience Gyrokinesis® at the Align Pilates Center under the excellent instruction of Christine Baltes. Connect with Christine and the Align Pilates team by calling (949) 481-3577, stop by the studio at 26850 Ortega Hwy., Suite K in San Juan Capistrano or visit www.alignpilatescenter.com
HOME VALUES ARE RISING AND R ATES ARE INCREDIBLY LOW REFINANCE UP TO 125% OF YOUR HOME’S VALUE
Fact or Fiction: Everyone is guaranteed issue in 2014 and beyond
Fact! There will no longer be any medical underwriting for policies written for an effective date of January 1, 2014 and beyond.
Fact or Fiction: Open enrollment for 2014 is October 1, 2013 through March 31, 2014
Fact! The open enrollment periods have been determined by the federal government and not by carriers For the first year only there will be an extended open enrollment period. In subsequent years, the open enroll-
Test Your Health Care Reform Knowledge
by Stephanie Frisch
ment period will be October 15th through December 7th (Yes, that’s the same as Medicare Open Enrollment)
Fact or Fiction: If you change your mind and want to switch to another plan or carrier after he open enrollment period, you are permitted to do so
Fiction! Once a plan is selected, a person cannot change or move to a different carrier outside of an open enrollment period. If a person has a life changing event, then there are exceptions o enroll or change.
Fact or Fiction: You no longer should utilize an insurance broker to help you navigate through your health insurance choices due the exhanges and the guaranteed issue rule
Fiction! There are now NEW choices that you have never even heard of! There will be 5 companies selected to have their plans in the exchange and the other companies that were not selected that have plans out of the exchange These plans will most likely have smaller networks and higher deductibles, but they will also have lower monthly premiums and still come with all the mandated benefits that are now part of virtually every policy sold within the state of California. What these plans will not include are subsidies, but for many families, the cost differentials will more than make up for that In addition, plans sold out of the exchange will not require the insured to complete an exhaustive 20- plus page application which has NOTHING to do with your health and everything to do with your personal finances This information will be shared with not only the Internal Revenue Service, but also Homeland Security and other entities that the government feels might benefit from knowing the intimate details of your situation.
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 health insurance, life insurance, long-term care planning and annuities. For answers to your questions, or an in-home, no-fee consultation, call (949) 351-2443
San Clemente High was ecstatic to nominate Peter Bennett as our Standout Student and had this to say about him: Peter Bennett is a very dedicated student He is a member of the yearbook team, the water polo team and strives for academic excellence He is an IB diploma candidate, although aside from academics, he has a large passion for working with the Invisible Children Organization and encourages many students to help make a difference in the world. Also, Peter helps with the Best Buddies Club on campus and is very dedicated to working with kids, aside from academics
SCM: Athletics/philanthropy/studies/other : What's your forte and why?
PB: Philanthropy is definitely my forte. I grew up pretty shy, but I have absolutely come out of my shell I am an extrovert and like to be with people as much as possible I have been volunteering in areas connected to the environment for the past four years: the Ocean Institute in Dana Point,
Peter Bennett STANDOUT STUDENT
San Clemente High School
he Environmental Alliance Club at school, beach cleanups and plantings, and was able to go on an environmental science trip to Costa Rica where we worked on habitat restoration, a turtle hatchery, and at a refuge for endangered animal pecies
SCM: Describe yourself in three words
PB: Caring, extrovert, determined.
SCM: # 1 Lesson you've learned last year?
PB: Don’t fall behind on your work It may not be fun staying up late to finish homework, but it’s better than trying to do a ton of make up work. Skipping school to work on assignments is rarely worth it
SCM: In your opinion, what is the key to success?
PB: Staying focused on your commitments. That’s what I’ve struggled with my entire school career. Things get past me sometimes, so I have to try really hard to remember all of the important things that I have coming up.
SCM: Who is the main person you look up to as a mentor and why?
PB: I look up to my junior year teacher Mrs Kerr She is a powerful force for the environment and stands up for what she believes in, without fear of prosecution
From the pool, to the stage, to the classroom, Santa Margarita sophomore Ryan Melosini is more than just a triple threat An outstanding athlete, Ryan has been the starting goalie for the Varsity Water Polo team since the beginning of his freshman year. He currently takes all honors classes and holds a 4 76 GPA He recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout and stepped out on the stage for his musical theatre debut with a standout performance as the lead role of the Beast in SMCHS’ production of Beauty and the Beast.
“His performance was outstanding,” says Amy Luskey-Barth, MPC, Director of Theatre Arts at SMCHS ‘’He is conscientious, talented, and hard working He is a true credit to the school – an example of the best of Santa Margarita!”
Ryan Melosini STANDOUT STUDENT
Santa Margarita Catholic High School
South County Magazine: In your opinion, what is the key to success? Ryan Melosini: Success is guaranteed by effort, determination and cooperation
1 Lesson you've learned last year?
RM: The biggest lesson I learned last year is that humility is the most important thing that I can have. Even if I go on to ac complish great things and achieve success, I am nothing without humility: I know now that only true men have humility
SCM: What do your parents say about your accomplishments?
RM: They always tell me how proud they are. The good thing about them is that they often encourage me to push my limits. My dad always tells me that “ the only person stopping you from reaching your dreams is yourself ” They truly believe I can do anything
SCM: Who is the main person you look up to as a mentor and why?
RM: I have had the honor of having many great mentors, but the person I look up to most is my grandfather, Giorgio Melosini who passed away two years ago I have always looked up to him because he was an example of how to live life to the fullest and he was a man of great character, integrity and passion He taught me many things
SOUTH COUNTYCALEN
Trust Administration: How Can I Keep It Simple?
by Don Hunsberger, Esq.
Across the country, accountants and attorneys who administer trusts are hearing the same question more and more often:
“If I don’t have any tax to avoid, why do I have to split my trust in half just because my spouse died?”
Unfortunately, the answer is simple- When your spouse dies, you may have to divide the trust into two trusts because your trust document says so, and it doesn’t make any allowances for what happens when the tax law changed
Go to Cour t
Some people are okay with taking such a trust to court for the judge to decide whether a change of tax law eliminates the need for smaller trusts to do an “A-B Split ” And some people have gone to court to do just that California’s Probate Code allows judges to change trust terms when there have been “changes in circumstances” that harm the trustee’s ability to accomplish the terms of the trust What are the problems here?
First, the trust is supposed to keep you out of court, and to avoid the costs, extra time, and publicity of the courtroom This approach does the opposite
Second, Going to court always runs the risk that your case won’t impress the judge enough to make her modify the terms of the trust So you spend several thousand dollars just to be told you can’t change the term
Change it Now!
The better answer is to get your document changed now to reflect the size of your estate in relation to the amount ($5,000,000) that the IRS allows us to pass to family without paying any estate tax:
First, the process doesn’t make you go to cour t, so it’s less expensive, quicker, and more private
Second, your new trust term will tell the trustee how to handle your assets after you die If there’s no tax reason to divide your estate in two parts when you or your mate dies, why require the division? It just adds cost, an extra tax return every year, and accounting requirements which won’t do your family’s peace of mind any good.
What’s Next?
Make it easy on your family. Get your estate in for your counsel to review the terms of your trust and ask what happens if you were to die this year If she tells you would have to do a division of the assets at the first death, ask her how much tax that saves If she says “none”, have her change the term so you don’t have to do a split of the assets when there’s no reason to have your family waste time, money, and headaches to complicate a provision that should be straightforward when your family manages your estate
Remember: Keep trust administration as simple as the law will allow!
LSPOTLIGHT ON: Artist Susan Jarecky
andscape is just the beginning for painter Susan Jarecky. Known for her unique and passionate ability to mix immediate impressions of the plein air outdoors with relevant social commentary, Susan’s work is all about bringing awareness. “As an artist I’m documenting and telling a story,” she says. “The overall concept is biographical. I’m a Western painter but I’m honing in on something The objective is really to document what I see through my travels and b these changes happening in the ranch community a generation of individual ranchers is being replaced by large modern farming operations,” says Susan
Her style leaves more to the imagination than meets the eye Each piece showcases snippets of connection that invites the audience in Susan paints “alla prima,” (meaning no ry time between essions), so her peronal development thr g ut why ranching? Why the western world?
My art is the best way I know to show my honor for the merican cowboy,” she says, “I want to bring heightened wareness through the tension of emotional response to e paintings My approach as an oil painter is one of intion over method Painting intuitively allows me to let of those restrictions that confine ”
san is an artist exhibitor at the Festival of Arts/Pageant the Masters June 30-August 31 Booth #90 Her work is also represented by Mission Fine Art Gallery, SJC and Robert Kelley Gallery, Park City, UT
$250 Off Whole House System
Why Teach Teenagers Business?
What do high school kids know about being entrepreneurs? It turns out their curiosity about the world around them, their natural creativity, willingness to take risks, and unbridled enthusiasm add up to the characteristics of our greatest entrepreneurs
“It’s never too early to teach teens business,” says Stephen Christensen, founder of the Teen Entrepreneur Academy (TEA) at Concordia University “Our local business leaders have acknowledged the relevance and importance of entrepreneurship as an educational and economic remedy, making the need for youth entrepreneurship programs more evident than ever With the recent recession creating a new standard of employment, entrepreneurship has become not only popular, but essential for job creation."
Concordia University's Teen Entrepreneur Academy (TEA) fosters the development of a business-savvy workforce that ultimately supports the region’s and America’s economic vitality
San Clemente High School junior Adam Brownell, 17, said he didn' t know what the word "entrepreneur" meant when his dad, Mike, enrolled him and his sister Rachel in the program last summer. Adam's business plan for Jukebox (a social media site on which teens could share videos and music and connect with others who like the same type of entertainment) earned him an internship KCOMM where he works with CEO Sinan Kanatsiz, founder of the Internet Marketing Association
Fifty participants will reside in the university’s dorms on campus in Irvine (from July 14 - 19) to experience total immersion in entrepreneurial culture and business principles.
The Academy is an experiential business education that includes planning, goals-setting, budgeting, deadlines, and instant feedback Students experience a low-risk way to launch a business Successful entrepreneurs and business faculty teach and mentor students with step-by-step advice and training
The investment is $495 per student. Scholarship assistance is available for low income and at-risk students. Apply online www.cui.edu/tea or contact Stephen Christensen via email at stephen.christensen@cui.edu or (714) 272-7865
Kelly, Help!
Q & A with Kelly Klaus, LMFT
Q: My husband has our children every other weekend and ignores any consistent schedule or rules we originally set for them when we were married. He has the income to splurge on fun activities and they return Sunday night hyper and difficult to redirect back into our routine What can I do to convince my ex that this is harmful to the children? - Sandy, Laguna Niguel
A: Your question has many subtle issues you may be dealing with in addition to your concern about
your children’s emotional and physical health The reality is that you are no longer a united team in parenting and if one parent chooses to disrespect the parenting style of the other, then children will quickly pick up on the new dynamics of the family Attempting to communicate with your ex might be helpful, but if the children are not in danger your words may fall on deaf ears. Children will suffer more from the arguments you have with your ex or your escalated anger you are trying to repress after they return from the weekend If you accept the fact they may be on a “sugar high” or exhausted from a trip to an amusement park, plan accordingly Have homework done before they leave on the weekend or wake up a little early on Monday morning to complete their assignments Have a quiet bath ready to calm & sooth them or start a routine they expect when they return, which may include a half hour of television, video games or a book you read to them.
The bottom line is your expectations and behaviors need to be modified to minimize the inconsistent lifestyles This is not to say ignore the routine and stability children thrive on throughout the majority of their life The ex may have more disposable income to spend on the children, but it is important that you do not try to compete. It is difficult to watch their faces light up with the gifts and trips, however, the quality time you spend with them will more than make up for the deficiencies money seems to produce Explore free activities in the community, have dinner outside or in the bedroom once in a while, watch a movie they choose with them, and game night is always a hit Sometimes the custodial parent is so consumed with the demands of the day-to-day activities, they forget that once in a while it is okay to skip the chores and do something outside the schedule.
The sad reality is when the over indulgent parent is motivated by guilt, the intent is to minimize their pain instead of focusing on the best interest of the child Time spent together and memories made are the greatest gifts we can give our children and ourselves.
Pets of the Month
Polo is part of our 3rd Chance Rescue Program and is making the most of his new oppor tunity. He loves to run and play with the other dogs, but his favorite pastime is probably just lounging in your lap With his outgoing personality, Polo makes friends with everyone he meets and given the chance he will definitely win your heart
Carrie is the darling of the cat room, and for good reason! Just a year old, she loves to show off her sleek coat and sweet disposition to everyone she meets. Whether she is chasing
after a menacing laser cuddled in your lap for noon snooze, spendi with Carrie is always en
When she is not out exercising in the play yard, she enjoys being lavshed with attention from passing visitors This little girl is friendly, litter box trained, and looking for someone to call her own!
If you are interested in adopting these or another animal please contact the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at (949)492-1617, or come and visit us at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente.
St. Anne PreschoolKindergarten Open House
June 5: 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.
by Jody Robinson
When our children neared preschool age, I began querying other parents at the playground and friends with young children about their experience with educational institutions in the area. My husband and I were specifically looking for a private school that would follow the Catholic tradition and provide a safe, nurturing environment guided by individuals who truly care about the well-being and development of the "whole" child - academic, physical, social, emotional and spiritual
We visited several recommended schools, but within 10 minutes of our tour here, my husband and I were "sold" on St. Anne School in Laguna Niguel. All the things that impressed us during that first visit have remained constant in the subsequent two years - the facility is pretty spectacular, safety is key concern, the teachers and the administrative staff are all enthusiastic and clearly love working with children, the parents are involved and extremely supportive.
But more than all of this, the true testament to St Anne is the fact that our son (now a kindergartener) is so excited to go to school each day From an academic standpoint, he has made huge strides in his math, reading, writing and reasoning skills. He loves his teachers and has made many friends. As parents, we couldn't be happier about our experience here and being part of the St Anne "family "
Pacific Water Solutions
By Heather Evans
For Owner Mike Dougher ty and his staff, no job is too small Anywhere you use water, they can sell and service water filtration equipment for you - and their passion is to educate customers about the importance of drinking and using safe water
Growing up in rural Idaho, I was lucky enough to live in a house that got its water from a well My family never worried about chemicals like chlorine, calcium, magnesium or sediment like those found in the municipal water supply I’ve heard so many people say they drink bottled water as a solution, but that doesn’t solve the fact that it’s wasteful and expensive or that you still absorb these chemicals through your skin. Bottled water doesn’t solve the problem of washing your dishes and watering your vegetables with these contaminates.
The solution is more cost-effective and easier to implement than you might think A full-service water filtration company, Pacific Water Solutions sells, services and installs water filtration and purification systems to all of OC and unlike many of its competitors, has retail locations where customers can check out the product options – and get an education on the benefits of both types of systems - before they buy
“A water softener uses salt and electricity to remove calcium and magnesium from the water, while a whole house filtration system doesn’t use salt or electricity,” says Mike “It connects to the main water line coming to your home and essentially serves as a point-of-entry-filter to stop dir t, sediment, rust, scale and other harmful contaminants at the door So the water that comes out of every dispenser in your house - faucets, baths, showers, toilets, kitchen, laundry - is clean and safe.”
When you contact Pacific Water Solutions, you get a water professional on the phone right away, not an answering service with a promise to return the call Because Mike and his team take the time to answer questions and work with your budget, they have hundreds of happy customers (Google “Pacific Water Solutions” to read online, unbiased reviews)
Owner Mike Dougherty
OPENING THIS FALL!
Luxur y Podiatr y Spa
1. What’s the difference between what a doc tor of podiatr y does and what a pedicurist does?
Ivar Roth, DPM: There is a large gap in care between what a pedicurist does and a doctor of podiatry does In the state of California a pedicurist cannot use a scalpel or any instrument that can result in the cutting or penetrating of the skin or work on any foot or toes that have an infection At least 50% of the population has a fungus nail infection or fungus infection of the feet War ts, (which look like corns) are also a virus infection of the skin. While a podiatrist can work on these conditions, the average person who seeks these services doesn’t want to make a doctor visit to have these problems taken care of This is partly due to the fact that many of these services aren’t covered under insurance and this would be a very expensive way to handle corns, callouses or fungus nails. Add to this the HMO environment and a doctor just does not have the time to effectively treat these problems because they are time consuming and thus a less than effective job is performed.
2. If someone wants a pedicure, but has these common infections or viruses, what’s left for them to do?
Dr. Roth: Enter what I call the podiacuristTM This means becoming a Californian licensed pedicurist who has trained under me to develop their professional podiatry skills. I teach them to use a scalpel and other instruments to deal with infected or hardened nails and thick callouses. Think dental hygienist for the feet. The podiacuristTM is an employee of my podiatry office and can provide these services under my license To ensure the highest quality of work possible, all work is checked by a podiatrist at the conclusion of the service
3. Is there anything like this in existence?
Dr. Roth: Not until now. This is a new concept that I’ve developed after dreaming and planning for over 20 years This is a self-realization that premium foot services are not offered anywhere, let alone in a safe, clean and supervised environment performed by specially trained personnel (pictured are Brian and Gina who have a combined 30 years experience)
PodiacuristTM services are half the cost of what you’d pay by going to a doctor. It's the best of both worlds - a podiatrist will treat any conditions and the podiacuristTM will pamper your feet in a way that you can feel safe about, all in a luxury 5-star spa setting We are currently offering these services - call to schedule an appointment with Brian or Gina
C O N C I E R G E P O
The Art Of Peaceful Sleeping
by Heather Evans
Many sleepless people have given up the idea of a good night’s rest Some have retired their CPAPs to the hall closet, and others continue to half-heartedly wear theirs, feeling uncomfor table and restless. Snoring and sleep apnea are not just some of life’s annoying issues, these medical conditions can cause problems in your sleep, your relationships, and can ultimately leave you feeling emotionally and physically drained
That’s where Dr. West comes in.
Dr. West is a leading expert in sleep apnea, snoring and CPAP intolerance. With Dr West’s testing methods, the patient can easily tell if treatment is going to be successful This has resulted in a 95% success rate Dr West has developed expertise in his field by studying and using several types of oral appliances, whereas the majority of dentists take a simple weekend course and focus on only one type of oral device.
Dr West also realizes the important role insurance coverage plays in the decision to see a specialist That’s why he and his team have found ways to get you the best coverage “What most dentists may not tell you is that this can often be covered under medical insurance They may not know this because medical insurance requires a completely different program for filing. Typically, most dental staff have no idea how to file medical insurance. We do, including Medicare. My staff has been doing this for six years and know all the in's and out's of the medical insurance world,” says Dr West
At his convenient Lake Forest office Dr West offers free consultations, and patients often say they learned more about their sleep studies from the free consultation then they do from their Sleep Specialist M.D.!
“We don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach to our patients,” he says “I attribute our success largely to that I also have a very skilled and caring staff We make sure to follow up, get to know you, and we want you to feel welcomed when you walk through our doors. Our patients love the friendly and relaxed environment, and we love working for them!”
San Juan Capistrano Relay for Life
by Ted Roberts
The Annual American Cancer Society Relay for Life will be held on Saturday, June 29th and Sunday June 30th at the Sports Park (1 Via Postiva) in San Juan Capistrano. 100% of the money raised this event is returned to the area where it was raised in the form of medical research to help find a cure for cancer or for patient services
The SJC Relay for Life is a great event with something for everyone, including martial arts demonstrations, mariachi music, folkloric dancing, great live music and lots of raffle prizes
Proceeds from the event help fund a number of programs for cancer patients such as the “Road to Recovery” program which gives free rides to cancer patients to and from their doctor appointments and “Look Good - Feel Better ” program which provides wigs and makeup for cancer patients
The SJC Relay for Life is a great event with something for everyone, including mar tial ar ts demonstrations, mariachi music, folkloric dancing, great live music and lots of raffle prizes.
The Relay for Life is being chaired by Mike Johnson this year and Mike tells us that this year’s event will be bigger and better than ever before The Opening Ceremony will begin promptly at 10 AM on Saturday June 29th, followed by the opening lap of the track by cancer survivors and their caregivers The Luminaria Ceremony will be held at 9 pm on Saturday, and the Closing Ceremony take place at 10 am on Sunday after the Relayers have been "walking the track" for 24 consecutive hours
“Behind the Orange Curtain”: Prescription Drug Abuse in OC
Its no secret prescription drug abuse has caused many deaths in the youth of America, especially in recent years. Most parents are aware of this problem, but still hold on to the mentality that their child wouldn’t participate in these types of behaviors Unfor tunately, there is an epidemic of prescription drug abusers, and we are greatly impacted by this here in Orange County. Natalie Costa, owner of The Performer’s Academy teamed up with film director Brent Huff to create a life changing documentary titled “Behind The Orange Cur tain” that’s quickly gained attention from the media, schools, parents and residents of Orange County (the movie was released on iTunes in April)
So why is the OC in particular so vulnerable to this problem? “We discovered it began largely in part due to the children born of upper middle class having disposable income with little to no supervision With the help of a dirty doctor, some cash for the prescription and either insurance or cash to the pharmacy, the sharing chain begins Orange County alone has approximately 14 physicians under the microscope of the DEA,” says Natalie Shown at schools and private screenings across the OC, “Behind The Orange Curtain” has educated thousands of children, teachers and parents on the dangers of abusing prescription drugs, and what measures are being taken to fight the problem. “For most, the problem starts at home in the average medicine cabinet,” Natalie adds
For Natalie, the inspiration to create this film came a little too close to home After her daughter’s friend passed away due to a prescription drug overdose, she learned hundreds of teens in the area had died the same tragic way. Natalie considered herself a “mom-in-the-know” and still hadn’t heard of this danger for teens. “It was even more shocking to learn these were teens were good kids from good families. That’s why it’s so dangerous, it can happen to anyone,” Natalie says
Anyone interested in a private screening at their home or arranging a viewing at their school or group is encouraged to contact Natalie immediately. She also includes a Q&A panel discussion for her large group showings. You can reach her at 949-609-1600. Education is the key to conquering this problem. Talk to your teenager today.
DINING entertainment
&
Savannah Chop House Cooking Classes
Get ready for all the summer socials you're planning Chef Chris and Manny are teaching you how to make delicious light appetizers that are sure to be crowd pleasers For more info, visit www.savannahchophouse.net
Vivant Theatre Presents "The Butler Did It"
Anthony J. Lefcourt, writer and director, is rehearsing his new play, a "classic whodunit" with which he hopes to regain the success that has eluded him in recent seasons. Eager to stimulate his cast, he has withheld the final scene of the play from them, but his patience is worn thin by the petty jealousies and romantic rivalries that detract from their concentration. To spur them on he "stages" the murder of an actress, after which the plot begins to twist and turn with such dazzling ingenuity and hilarity that soon actors and audience alike have lost track of what is real until a surprise ending sets matters straight in a most bizarre and ironic way Performances will be held on June 27, 28 and 29 at the Dana Point Community House at 24642 San Juan Avenue in Dana Point. For reservations, call (714) 401-0324
Master Mixologist Classes at The St. Regis
On the last Wednesday of every month, master mixologists from premium liquor companies will teach the guests and visitors of The St Regis Monarch Beach how to make hand-crafted culinary cocktails in the hotel’s restyled Lobby Lounge June 26: Whiskey in a Barrel from 6: 30 p.m. - 8: 30 p.m. Space is limited. To RSVP, call (800) 722-1543. $25
Manic Mondays & Karaoke with Andrea
Monday Specials at The Surfin Cowboy include: $10 OG Burger & Coors Light pint, $3 Coors Light pints, $5 Dickel Whiskey and $5 Fireball shots Karaoke at 9:30 p m Surfin Cowboy is located at 34235 Doheny Park Road in Capo Beach For more info, visit www.thesurfincowboy.com
PCasanova Ristorante
by Heather Evans
icture this: you, sitting next to your date, looking cute, sipping on some perfectly suggested wine, about to indulge in a fragrant, flavorful dish of ravioli This is the kind of ravioli that will ruin all other ravioli for you. We’re talking homemade, four che Funchi Porcini or a signature Lobster Ravioli. Either one the equivalent of a Ryan Gosling meme on a plate. That’s Casanova Ristorante in Dana Point
What I’m telling you is that this place is the kind of place you dream about stumbling across after being disappointed time and again in search of great Italian food. The bread is warm and fresh, the service is impeccable, the menu is so amazing it will torture you by trying to decide on just one thing and the cuisine? Well, it's exactly like being in a small restaurant in the heart of Italy
Casanova is an upscale, romantic gem that specializes in the art of ood Enjoy their daily happy hour from 3:30 to 6 p m , and let their knowledgeable taff select the right wine to accompany our culinary selection - from the freshest eafood to inventive and traditional pasta ishes to signature entrees and specialty ppetizers like the melt-in-your-month Burata cheese perfectly paired with prosciutto nd arugula lightly tossed in extra virgin ive oil.
Other popular entrees include the Pink Lady Fettuccine which arrives as a steaming plate of fragrant pasta tossed with grilled chicken and sundried tomatoes and the richly delicious lasagne Casanova is home to one of the most unique and posh wine lists around - with bottles from (relatively) nearby Napa and Sonoma Counties to far flung vineyards in Europe and Central and South America Whatever you do, save room for dessert you can’t leave without ordering one of their incredible desserts I always have the tiramisu- although my boyfriend eats most of it before I get a chance to
In celebration of the release of the May 2013 issue of South County Magazine, we invited our advertising partners and editorial contributors to experience what just might be one of Laguna Niguel's "best kept secrets" for fine dining with a casual flair: LJ's Bistro.
Owner/Chef Paul Braunschweiler dished up a delightful array of classic European and modern American cuisine. A diverse menu is sure to please even the most discriminating palate. Guests noshed on Pulled Pork Sliders, Flat Bread Pizza Pomodoro, Mozzarella and Basil and the must-try delicious Whiskey Chicken
Laguna Niguel’s Best-Kept Secret: LJ’s
full bar and Happy Hour specials, coupled with flavorful tapas small plates great for sampling) make this a great destination for after-work gatherings with riends or "date nights."
The South County Magazine team with LJ's Bistro
Owner/Chef Paul Braunschweiler
Celebrating their 25th anniversary in 2013, SoCal’s scrumptious staple Wahoo’s Fish Tacos continuous it’s monthly promotions on the 25th of every month throughout the year
For the past 25 years, Wahoo’s has perfected its eclectic Mexican/Brazilian/Asian menu delivered with a Hawaiian North Shore vibe Its signature fish taco, which hasn’t changed since day one, has become a favorite among the restaurant’s loyal customers – and a catalyst for the chain’s continued expansion There are currently 65 locations throughout the nation including stores in California, Colorado, Texas and Hawaii – with new locations recently opened in New York, Nebraska and Nevada. In
Wahoo’s Celebrates 25 Years!
addition, there are 10 locations with full-service bars to accompany the menu. New locations scheduled to open within the next year include Highland Ranch, Colo , Woodland Hills, Calif , two locations in Henderson, Nev , and the restaurant’s first international store in Japan.
“What better way to celebrate our 25th anniversary than by connecting with our loyal customers and fans that have helped us become a favorite in communities across the nation,” said Wing Lam, co-founder of Wahoo’s “We are proud to continue to serve our unique menu, participate in community events and offer our supporters many opportunities to win free food and much more.”
