BLACK FRIDAY EVENT
ADVER TISER TESTIMONIALS
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
"The response has been amazing! (Our placement) was better than any advertising we have done in any other publication - South County Magazine not only brought in many new customers, but the right kind of clientele we were hoping to attract for long-term success "
- Mitch and Ashley O'Leary, Collective Habit, Laguna Niguel
"I recently started advertising with South County Magazine and can honestly say that after only one issue in print, I've seen a marked increase in calls, website hits and inquiries from new prospective clients In less than one month, I ve secured a handful of new clients The support provided by Jody and her team is amazing " - Robyn Mannaert, Permanent Makeup Lounge, SJC
PERMANENT MAKEUP LOUNGE
The first time I saw South County Magazine, I thought it would be a great avenue to advertise my business and I was right The ad South County created for me did a great job of getting my message out and more importantly, getting my phone to ring Thank you to South County Magazine for the excellent work!"
- Marcio Andre Vigel, BBQ Cleaning Services, San Clemente
"I keep hearing that print media is going away, but I can't find any evidence of that based on my experience in advertising with South County Magazine For my business, it's been phenomenal - every time the magazine goes out, I consistently receive calls that have resulted in a steady stream of new clients I couldn't be happier and encourage other local business owners looking for avenues to increase their customer base to look no further than South County Magazine "
- Candice Lopez, Call in the Crew
"We have been involved with South County Magazine since its first edition in January 2011 Monaco Jewelers was featured as the cover of the inaugural issue and we are still receiving positive feedback from customers - new and existing - who remember seeing our showcase Additionally, we are very happy with our advertising relationship with South County Magazine and look for ward many years of mutual success and continued growth
- Ron Pashaian, Monaco Jewelers, San Juan Capistrano
"I've been using media advertising for 5 years I'm used to having to wait a few months for any phone calls when I start in a new publication I was so pleasantly surprised when my phone started ringing from the very FIRST ad that I placed with South County Magazine Jody really has done a great job for me - Stephanie Frisch, Insurance 101
Hidden in a historic district, I wondered how anyone would find us Of course, there's nothing like word-of-mouth, but when we decided to advertise, I felt that South County Magazine was a good fit since it highlights all the best things to see and do in the OC Sure enough, we began hearing from our visitors that they saw us in the magazine and decided to check out our zoo South County Magazine is certainly something to crow about!" - Carolyn Franks, owner ZOOMARS Petting Zoo, San Juan Capistrano
"Simply put, advertising in South County Magazine works My participation has resulted in new customers and the process couldn t have been easier Not only did the magazine offer design services at no charge, they created a great ad without needing much input from me because they took the time to really understand my business The resulting ad does a great job of getting my ' message ' out - I'm very pleased " - Betty Darroch, Mission Viejo Wigs, Mission Viejo
What a great magazine!!! With all the advertising I have done for Salon Bamboo, I love the response I have gotten from South County Magazine Whether you are a new business or existing it's great when your customers notice your advertising!"
- Jamie Springer, Salon Bamboo and Del Mar Beauty Supply, San Clemente
OCTA and Caltrans Plan I-5 South County Improvements
Work between Avenida Pico and San Juan Creek funded by Measure M
Carpool lanes on Interstate 5 (I-5) that now end in San Juan Capistrano will extend south of Avenida Pico in San Clemente as par t of a $275 million project by the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans)
The congested Avenida Pico interchange in San Clemente will also be rebuilt as part of the project, which is funded by Measure M, a half-cent sales tax approved by Orange County voters for transportation projects.
Construction to build the carpool lanes in both directions will begin in fall 2013 One new soundwall is planned, along Shorecliffs Golf Course on the west side of the freeway north of Avenida Vaquero The final phase of the project, rebuilding the interchange, is expected to begin in 2014 and finish in spring of 2017.
When finished, the portion of Avenida Pico under the freeway will expand to nine lanes The lanes include two through lanes headed west and three through lanes headed east, as well as two left turn lanes to enter the northbound freeway and two left turn lanes to enter the southbound freeway. New bicycle lanes will also be added to Avenida Pico in both directions beneath the freeway and through theproject area
The OCTA outreach team has held more than 20 meetings with city leaders and other community stakeholders to inform them about the project. The outreach team has also distributed project information at summer concer ts in San Juan Capistrano, as well as the craft fair at San Clemente’s Farmers Market and the San Clemente High School’s Back-to-School Night Representatives also delivered informational fliers to nearly 350 businesses along the project corridor
Plan Now! Avoid the Impact of Obamacare & Increased Taxes
Schedule a year-end Financial Review or Tax-Planning to:
• Consider repositioning your assets to avoid the additional Obamacare taxes on passive income.
• Income shift income to reduce 2012 or 2013 taxes in consideration a potential increase in tax rates
• Consider a Roth-IRA conversion now to provide you tax planning flexibility
• Review investment portfolio(s) to “harvest” tax losses in stocks, bond or mutual funds
• Determine 2012 tax liabilities
• Avoid Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT)
Discover the advantages of incorporation for tax savings and legal protection. It is a must to schedule a “Choice of Business Entity” meeting to determine the best course of action and the required steps/procedures.
Optimize your “big” financial picture with a holistic planning review that examines and integrates all key aspects of your family’s financial planning – taxes, investments, college planning, retirement, risk protection, business and estate Understanding the specifics of each
by Peter D. Prescott CPA, Masters in Taxation
key area utilizing cutting edge tools and techniques is invaluable. Finding ways to synergistically incorporate various wealth management solutions gives you the broadest range of flexibility, security and control moving into the future. Year end is a superb time to do so as it may unearth current year tax savings at the same time.
Schedule a pension review meeting to take full advantage of the “best tax deduction available” and:
• Set up your pension plan prior to 12/31/2012 Many plans need to be established (the paperwork) prior to year-end; however contribution calculation and funding may be delayed to the extended due date of the return (September or October of 2013) This provides you with the flexibility to reduce your tax bill late into 2013
• Review how your pension account is allocated including the potential risks of inflation (higher interest rates) and currency devaluation.
• Determine if you should be investing in your retirement plan on tax-deductible basis or on an after-tax basis (Roth). This is based upon your tax bracket.
• Establish a pension plan that has a loan capability of $50,000 per participant
Review your health insurance coverage in view of recent health law changes. In par ticular, obtain quotes for alternative plans that can take advantage of Health Savings Accounts (H S A ) which can allow you to deduct out of pocket medical costs
Consider hiring family members (children/spouse) if you are a sole proprietor. Significant tax savings can be achieved including establishing a medical reimbursement plan and pension contributions.
Accelerate business equipment purchases and cars prior to year-end to take advantage of Bonus Depreciation that is available through 12/31/2012
Schedule an insurance update analysis to make sure you have adequate coverage and finalize your decision to purchase long term coverage
Waiting for Dental Insurance?
Please don’t, here’s why . . .
by Robert K. Faber, D.D.S.
It seems like every day I meet someone who tells me they haven' t seen a dentist "because they don' t have dental insurance" Their perception apparently is that Dental Insurance provides a sort of Free Money for dental care, or that keeping one's mouth healthy is not worth spending money on in the absence of insurance Truth be told, dental care need not 'break the bank'. Regular check-ups/x-rays/teeth cleaning costs very little compared to treating complex problems or disease that has progressed in the absence of care After all, progression of Dental disease waits for nothing-including insurance benefits
For $39 we will conduct a thorough exam, diagnose you and discuss your options for treatment. Financing is available should your oral health care needs exceed your budget.
We can help! Absence of Pain does NOT indicate Absence of Dental Disease. If you've been putting off a dental exam, realize that the care you need is never going to be less costly than if you seek treatment NOW.
ental insurance is entirely unlike Medical Insurance or ar Insurance- which pay after you have met your deuctible. If you've ever had dental insurance, think bout how it works...Dental Insurance is simply a numer of dollars (typically $1000-$1500/year) that an emoyer provides for dental services toward an employee r individual's care This yearly maximum does NOT ake into account an individuals diagnosis, treatment eeds or cosmetic 'wants'. It's merely a 'benefit', but he benefit ends at that dollar amount, every year, irespective of the conditions in your mouth If you are not employed or your employer does not offer dental nsurance, you will likely find that purchasing Dental nsurance on your own is not really worthwhile Generally the premium you pay will be more or less equal to the yearly benefit amount. There simply is no 'Free Money' through insurance, they're not dummies-it is a big business designed to make money The bottom line is: Don't wait, we can help you minimize your cost and maximize your oral health!
Robert K. Faber, DDS, and his team of dental care professionals can help you with the financial aspects of receiving the care you need. Connect with him by calling (949) 493-3376 or visit www.capistranodentist.com. His offices are located at 31921 Camino Capistrano, Suite 21 in San Juan Capistrano
Ricardo’s Place
Family
roots and commitment to community defines this iconic San
Juan Capistrano restaurant
by
Early in my writing career, I had the opportunity to interview many successful entrepreneurs for an OC-based regional b u s i n e s s / l i f e s t y l e publication While the scope of the featured businesses was diverse, the owner/operators all shared an unerring passion for their profession and a common belief that “if you love what you do, the money will follow ”
As the owners of Ricardo’s Place Mexican Restaurant in San Juan Capistrano, there’s no doubt that Ricardo and Rosa Beas practice what they preach with regard to their devotion family (including their extended “family” of employees, many of whom have been with Ricardo and Rosa since the restaurant opened in April of 2003), friends and dedication and commitment to the betterment of the community
Jody Robinson • cover photography by Anthony Holguin, Raymond Photography
Alicia Beas (seated) served as the inspiration behind the family-run restaurants across Southern California including those owned by her sons Ricardo (L) and Luis Alejandro (pictured below) and her brothers Mario Arias and Arnulfo Arias
Clockwise from (L): Luis Alejandro; Ricardo's Place Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting with Mayor Joe Soto, Grandmother Juana Gonzalez and Ricardo; Doña Alicia, Don Jesús and little Rosita
Community
Steadfast supporters of numerous charitable organizations, Ricardo and Rosa devote their time to giving back, particularly to the local youth in our community They are both on the Board of Directors for ATLAS, a youth soccer program, and the Capistrano Community Mariachi Program. Rosa is an ambassador for the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, co-founder of the Cultural Cen-
“Ricardo and Rosa Beas represent the best of the best,” says Richard Ybarra, Former CREER Executive Director. “They are passionate and inspiring as individuals, as a team, as business and social entrepreneurs and they are community building innovators who give at home, at the office and in the streets They are truly "champions of Capistrano" whose consistency and contributions large and small always add up to success and giving. I am honored to call them friends and colleagues ”
ter of Mexico in Orange County and a board member of the Friends of the San Juan Capistrano Library and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley. Ricardo lends his time to serve on the board of the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce and the Latino Business Council and the couple take pride in their volunteer efforts in the San Juan Capistrano and Monarch Beach Rotary clubs.
I had the pleasure of meeting Ricardo and Rosa for the first time when I was in the process of launching South County Magazine in January 2011 and felt an instant connection to this dynamic couple I had initially approached them about par ticipating in the magazine from an advertising standpoint and spoke to them about editorial opportunities to showcase their business As would come to discover is their way, Ricardo and Rosa immediately redirected the attention from themselves to share with me details of many wor thy local non-profit organizations they felt would better benefit from exposure in a community magazine.
siness
t year, Ricardo and Rosa Beas were recognized with the San Juan istrano Mayor’s Award for “Business Leader of the Year” award – a nguished honor created several years ago to recognize “individuals e community who have shown outstanding commitment to the qualf life in San Juan Capistrano ”
oth Ricardo and Rosa, the seeds of success – both personally and ssionally – were planted at an early age by their mothers
do and his siblings (Rosa, Raquel, Bertha, Estela, Alejandro, Belén inerva) credits their mother, Alicia Beas, with serving as the inspifor the growth and success of several Southern California-based run restaurants built on the foundation of her strong work ethic siness acumen
thentic Mexican cuisine on the menu are fashioned after and iny Ricardo’s grandmother Juana González-Arias' own family recipes. of her last trips to the region from her native Mexico, his grandattended the grand opening of Ricardo’s Place.
mother, Rosa Ruiz-Rivera, influenced Rosa’s varied philanthropic inhroughout her childhood and continues to inspire her daughter to d efforts to raise awareness and funds to support many local and onal charitable organizations.
er has a huge heart and always gave of herself, her time and talents others,” says Rosa “Ricardo and I share the belief that what you will receive many times over in life.”
“Ricardo’s Place is a wonderful success story and a reminder that in an age of spreadsheets and Search Engine Optimization, a great product and friendly service are still the most effective tools for business success,” says Mark Bodenhamer, Executive Director, San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce. “San Juan Capistrano wouldn’t be the same without Ricardo’s Place and the great people behind it.”
To connect with Ricardo and Rosa, call (714) 493-4941 or visit Ricardo’s Place at 32082 Camino Capistrano in San Juan Capistrano or visit www.ricardosplace.net. Ricardo’s Place is open six days a week (closed Mondays) for lunch or dinner and offers takeout and catering for gatherings of all sizes - from small family functions to large corporate events.
A member of Ricardo and Rosa's extended "family," Lou De Stephano oversees the restaurant's catering operation.
Rosa Beas credits her mother, Rosa RuizRivera (pictured here), with instilling in her a desire to give back to the community
Business Borrowing Basics
by C. Lawrence "Larry" Thomas
Bankers frequently get calls from entrepreneurs looking for capital for their business. They are looking to borrow money to fund their operation
Many banks, probably most if not all, want to see a track record before they lend to a “newer” company If the loan is larger, they will want two or three years of history (tax returns for both the business and the business’s principals, financial statements for the same periods and for current year to date, and personal financial statements for the principals). Depending on the specifics of the deal, other documentation such as receivables aging, inventory schedules, and real estate owned may be required
If the borrowing is smaller, perhaps one year of business and personal tax returns and financial statements will suffice
Banks will not generally provide “paid in capital.” That is the function of investors, venture capitalists, private equity firms, and “hard money” lenders Usually these sources want an ownership interest in the enterprise This money can be quite expensive, but necessary to get started
If the business has a track record, the bank is a source of funding for equipment loans, lines
of credit to support accounts receivable or inventory, purchase of a building to house the business, term loans for improvements, and the like.
The primary underwriting documentation is the history of the company as detailed in tax returns and financial statements However, it is helpful if the bank understands what the business is planning to do, its goals, and the strategy and tactics intended to meet their planned results. Business plans, strategic plans, and budgets are examples of this forward-looking documentation
The structure of the borrowing is also important Businesses should keep in mind that lines of credit usually need to be paid off at least once per year for 30 days. If funds are needed for a longer period, a term loan would be more appropriate
If your banker understands the business’s borrowing needs, he or she can recommend the appropriate loan structure for them. This communication is essential to a good banking relationship and a good banking relationship is essential to any business’s success
Scott E. West, DDS
Offering Alternative Treatment of Snoring, Sleep Apnea and CPAP Intolerance
By Heather Evans
I“We don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach to our patients,” says Dr West “For this reason, we have a very high success rate 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 welcome when you walk through the door Our patients love the friendly and relaxed environment, and we love working for them!”
Dr West began his career as a general dental practitioner in Mission Viejo, where he worked for over 30 years doing cosmetic, biologic and family dentistry Five years ago, Dr West began a new direction when he decided to limit his practice exclusively to sleep issues. While most dentists use only one type of sleep aid appliance, Dr. West is trained on several different sleep aid appliances and is widely recognized as a talented specialist in his field He is also one of only a few Southern California-based Medicare Providers for Sleep Appliances
“I can’t tell you how good it feels to hear a patient tell me they’ve had the best sleep in years, or that they’ve been able to sleep in the same room as their partner again,” he says. “I’ve seen a patient’s entire life change simply because they were able to get a good night’s sleep!”
Dr West offers complimentary consultations, and many of his patients claim they learned more about sleep studies from his free consultations then they did from their Sleep Specialist M D
If you think you might have a sleeping issue, let Dr West treat you today Better sleep is truly the key to a better life
I bet you didn’t know you could sleep your way to a better life That’s exactly what Scott E West, DDS, helps his patients do Specializing in Snoring, Sleep Apnea and CPAP intolerance, Dr West has been the premier expert for treating sleep problems with highly customized treatments, designed exclusively on a case-by-case basis. To connect with Dr. West, call (949) 829-6700 or visit www.cannotusecpap.com. Questions about your insurance plan? Not a problem. His staff is ready to find the best options for you.
Through November 30, Tuttle's Carpet One of Laguna Niguel, a Premier Partner with Wools of New Zealand, will feature Wools of New Zealand brand carpet and rugs by Karastan, Nourison, Fabrica, Couristan, and more at 20% percent off
Beautiful & Natural
New Zealand Wool Carpets at Tuttle's Carpet One of Laguna Niguel
Wools of New Zealand brand carpet and rugs last longer and provide benefits that other carpets can’t claim In addition to its exceptional beauty and softness, wool is a natural, non-allergenic fiber that works to improve the health and safety of a home by cleansing the air and preventing fires. It is also an environmentally friendly, rapidly renewable fiber that helps sustain our natural resources.
During the Brilliant Choices event, consumers have the satisfaction of knowing that a portion of each purchase will be donated to Shear Joy, a Heifer International program that provides sheep to needy families worldwide. Since 1944, Heifer International has provided livestock, seeds, trees and extensive training to improve the lives of the poor and operates in more than 50 countries.
“The Brilliant Choices event offers our customers a superior flooring product at a discounted price,” says Owner Kevin Hentzen. “Providing vivid color and natural style, wool from New Zealand is the best fiber for carpet and rugs. And the Wools of New Zealand brand certifies that the product has been made to the highest standards of quality and performance ” To connect with Tuttle's Carpet One, visit the showroom at 27751 La Paz Road in Laguna Niguel, call (949) 831-1332 or visit www.tuttlescarpetonelagunaniguel.com
Tuttle's Carpet One is a Premier Partner that is distinguished by Wools of New Zealand as a “Showroom of Excellence ” It is one of an exclusive group of luxury showrooms in the U.S. that benefits from proprietary programs and products.
We often assume that our loved ones will instinctively know our wishes should something happen to us.
Then ask yourself this:
Do they know your personal concerns about aging, long term illness and death? Do they know what resources you have and what you don’t have and where they may be asked to step into help? If you don’t have children, who is
Having “ The Discussion” Sooner Rather than Later
by Stephanie Frisch
your “dedicated” person for handling your affairs as you become unable to do o for yourself or need additional help as you age? Are they aware of where to go to find the services that you may need from community, non-profit and governmental offices?
There are four categories that need to be discussed with your loved ones now, NOT after a major health event or worse They are:
1. Your personal needs and concerns,
2. Your opinions about housing and health as you age or suffer poor health.
3. How you feel about dying, death and your wishes for your funeral.
4. Insight into your financial and legal matters.
If you haven’t made the time to have this discussion yet, set a deadline for yourself to do so. It may seem unimportant to you now, perhaps uncomfortable too, but none of us have a crystal ball and we don’t know what tomorrow brings Preparing now lightens the burden on your loved ones when “life happens,”
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
1. How did you perfect the laser treatment for fungal nails?
Ivar Roth, DPM: After performing thousands of laser fungal toenail treatments, I developed and refined a proprietar y protocol coupled with the newest second generation FDA approved laser The new laser with its digital readouts allows me to tell precisely how much energy is required to kill the fungus. With this information, I calculate a specific customized laser treatment tailored to each patient This patient specific treatment means that no two patients are given the same laser treatment In addition, I invented a new way to get rid of the fungal infection in the toenails Before your laser treatment, I will perform Maximum Nail Reduction (MNR) which removes at least 80% of your fungus in a single office visit This exclusive protocol is so effective that I applied for a patent and it is currently only available at my office The initial treatment fee includes a second treatment session in order to ensure your success.
2) What is the cost for laser toenail treatment?
IR: The treatments are broken down into two easy to understand components The first is the examination and nail treatment which may be covered by insurance The second part is the actual laser treatment which is not covered A one-time examination fee of $500 is charged during the first session which covers both the fee for the initial examination as well as the follow-up office visit. There is a separate laser fee of $70 for each toe which is also paid upfront and covers two laser treatments For example, treating one toe would be $570; however if all ten toenails are treated, the charge would be $1200. For severe infections, a third laser treatment may be necessar y Exclusive anti-fungal products are sold separately You are not forced to treat all your nails as may be mandator y at other offices
3) Is there a treatment for split nails?
Dr Roth has developed a new patent pending cure for split nails
Only one or two treatments are required to solve this problem
Dr. Roth's Patient
Dr. Roth's Patient
Dr. Roth's Patient
Assistance League Capistrano Valley Home Tour
Benefits South County Military and Others in Need
Thousands of children at Camp Pendleton and in south Orange County will directly benefit from the Assistance League of Capistrano Valley’s 7th Annual Christmas Home Tour. On Sunday, December 2, four splendidly decorated homes in Cypress Cove, an exclusive gated community in San Clemente, will open their doors for this annual event From 11 a m to 4 p m , guests can view the homes and sample tastings from local restaurants All proceeds from the event are targeted for children at Camp Pendleton and in the local area, for school clothing and supplies, developmental reading materials and support for educational enrichment programs Tickets, priced at $30 each, may be purchased through the Association’s website,at www.capistranovalley.assistanceleague.org or by calling (949) 291-8408.
The Assistance League of Capistrano Valley (ALCV), is a non-profit, volunteer organization, which has five different philanthropies serving the Capistrano Valley and surrounding areas. Most proud of its program Chapters for Children, the group has significantly touched the lives of almost 10,000 children whose parents are stationed at Camp Pendleton by furnishing basic needs for infants, toddlers, and school children.
The tour will take place rain or shine. Should you be unable to attend and would still like to support the group, monetar y donations can be mailed to ALCV, P.O. Box 133, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675. Gently used clothing, accessories and household items can be donated for resale at their thrift store The Bargain Box, 526 North El Camino Real, San Clemente or you could considering joining the group as a volunteer.
Zia Jewelry Anniversary Sale
The iconic San Juan Capistranobased Zia Jewelry celebrates its 35th anniversary in the Capistrano Plaza across from the historic Mission SJC On Friday, Saturday and Sunday (November 16th, 17th and 18th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., all guests are invited to join the festivities with Grand Marnier, gourmet chocolates and up to 65% off an amazing array of beautiful rings, bracelets, necklaces, pendants and earrings - just in time for the holidays!
As an example, the gorgeous pendant and earring set pictured here (regular price $278) are on sale for $138 This necklace and earrings are crafted from solid sterling silver and set with blue-green cultured opal The sterling silver chain is 18” long One of the nice things about this set is the beautiful blue-green color, which will look great with almost any color that you wear
Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu Dana Point
by Jody Robinson
Self development. Discipline. Self defense. Character development. These are all traits any parent would want to instill in their children and the main reasons why my husband and I chose to enroll our five-year-old son in Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu in Dana Point
Open since December 2009 in the Blue Lantern Plaza (at the corner of PCH and Blue Lantern), the Gracie Barra Jiu-Jitsu studio specializes in self defense and Brazilian Jiu-JItsu for men, women and children of all ages
In the few short months since our son started the program, he has truly thrived in the encouraging, fun atmosphere and in interacting with his fellow students and the instructors What is particularly nice for the class of mostly 4 – 6 year olds is that there are three “coaches” on the mat throughout the 50-minute class, so all the students receive individualized, personal attention All of the instructors I’ve witnessed are incredibly patient, supportive and seem to have an affinity for teaching their art to children.
to the amazing benefits of the practice – from improved confidence, strength and coordination to personal discipline.”
“We are dedicated to teaching martial arts at its prime form providing the best training experience possible,” he says “All of our instructors undergo the ‘Gracie Barra Instructors Certification Program ‘ – an intense training to review and enhance their teaching skills and methodology. Our classes are run using curriculums and teaching methods developed by our founder Carlos Gracie Jr and, most importantly, we have our students goals in mind all the time Jiu-Jtsu is a tool for each team member to discover his or her own strengths and grow from their weaknesses and we are here to help them ”
In terms of future growth, Almeida says he plans to expand the schedule of offerings to include cardio classes for men and women based on basic self-defense and martial arts.
“I attribute the success of the business to date to our people,” says Flavio Almeida, executive director, Gracie Barra (GB) Association and professor, GB Dana Point and GB San Clemente “Gracie Barra has been an amazing magnet, attracting good people From the staff to the students, every individual has been very committed to the team and their training, as well as the growth of the school.”
Almeida, who has been practicing Jiu-Jitsu his entire life, says Gracie Barra has “transformed me and my family in so many ways and we are really motivated to expose as many people in our community
“This class will be a variation of what is commonly known as cardio kickboxing,” he says “This summer, we will also add a Mixed Martial Arts Program with the goal of providing our advanced students with training so they can continue to develop their self defense skills ”
Almeida adds that “martial arts training is not what most people think about when considering a new hobby.”
“We pride ourselves of teaching Jiu-Jitsu for everyone,” he adds “Martial arts can become a lifestyle that will improve your overall well-being as well that of your entire family ”
My first introduction to the 2013 Ford Escape was at a car show last November and I have to say, it was love at first sight This wasn’t just a car - it was a work of art.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my 2008 Escape, but there were minor design elements and functionality issues I encountered over the course of ownership that would cause a little pause - leaving me wondering what the engineers were thinking in the design process.
Villa Ford’s 2013 ESCAPE
by Jeanine Just
So I was more than thrilled to discover that Ford not only fixed all the little things that “bugged me” their design team went “way beyond” and addressed things I hadn't thought of, like informative warning signals/sounds that aren't annoying and a panoramic windshield for greater visibility, particularly when at a stop in front of a crosswalk.
pre-ordered my Escape in September and since I slid behind the wheel upon its arrival last month, it has exceeded all my expectations
I live in the mountains near Lake Arrowhead and drive at least 25,000 miles a year in all types of weather conditions and geographical terrain For me, my car is more than transportation - it's my "home away from home," "my office on wheels" and my "escape" (pun intended)
For less than $35,000, this solid, quiet, compact car is functional and exceedingly comfortable. The 2013 Ford Escape features a totally redesigned aerodynamic body shape and great MPG. The push-button start is simple and fun and the car easily fits into smaller spaces, making parking a breeze just about anywhere
The sound system, “nav and smart technology” are priceless, as is the "hands-free" kick lift Quite simply, this car is FUN and easy to operate and maneuver
And as a female buyer, I have to say that the shopping experience at Villa Ford was an incredibly smooth, stress-free experience. I couldn't be happier with the great customer ser vice, knowledgeable sales and ser vice professionals and extensive selection of vehicles available at this woman-owned dealership. Thanks Villa Ford!
Whether you're out shopping, strolling at the beach or spending the day at an amusement park, the Hipzbag not only keeps all your valuables safe, it allows you to remain truly "hands free."
A hipper, cooler, fashion forward version of the fanny pack, rides on your hip (attached to your belt loops with patent pending swivel hooks or connects with a thin waist strap that matches the bag) and features a zippered compartment in the front to carry money, keys, etc while your cell phone slips perfectly into the open pocket in the back. www.hipzbag.com
