A SoCal Senior Publication May 2021
Kristy Fleming, MD, FAAD
Relax with “Guaranteed Peace of Mind” Adult Dentistry
WHY is “ Guaranteed Peace of Mind” Adult Dentistry so important?
Mature adults who have complex dental problems, need a doctor like Dr. Löberg, who listens carefully first, and then uses his 16 years of experience and advanced training to dramatically improve his patients’ appearance, dental health and their ability to chew naturally.
What problems can be treated with Adult Dentistry? • Gum Disease/Bone Loss • Root Canals • Dental Implants • Broken/Missing Teeth • Smile Makeovers Crown & Bridges
JASON SPATES
Doheny Bike • Advertising Partner since 2020
We can tell when the new issue arrives in mailboxes because our phones ring off the hook and we are slammed with new business. We have been extremely pleased with the response!
ENZO SCOGNAMIGLIO
Brio Tuscany Grille • Advertising Partner since 2012
We have been consistently participating in every issue and are very pleased with our experience. Jody and her team truly care about helping our business continue to succeed. If you are interested in reaching the South County community, I am absolutely thrilled to recommend Jody and her fabulous team!
JEFF MCCABE
One Way Painting • Advertising Partner since 2011
I really appreciate and value the service provided by Jody and her team at Community Publications. The close attention to detail that has gone into every article Jody has written is outstanding and has helped us get the word out on One Way Painting & California Gun Services. The articles you have written really show you understand what services we provide and what value we offer to our customers. Each time a magazine comes out, the calls increase, and we get to introduce the company to new people. Thank you for making everything so easy.
Help is On the Way with Ola-Help!
Ola-Help!, you speak with a person, and not an automated message system asking you to repeat your command until you’re blue in the face.
By Jody Robinson
The last 12 months have been some of the most taxing in recent memory. Nearly a year of intermittent lockdown, skyrocketing unemployment rates, global pandemic.
Not necessarily the right time to start a business, when so many need assistance. Unless, of course, the business you start is the business of helping others out. Amidst one of the more nutty summers on record, the Irvine-based OlaHelp! got its start. Looking to assist people with fast and efficient services and delivery for personal shopping, buying, sending gifts, or even scheduling rides for appointments for residents in South OC, there isn’t a challenge too large for the team.
Specifically targeted at those most compromised by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ola-Help! looks for ways to meet the demands of a world driven by technology and connection when so many were driven into isolation, separated from the ones they love who helped them stay
relevant through computers, tablets, and the seemingly endless scroll of smart phone apps. My Mom turned 88 in September, and we haven’t seen her in months. As such, we’ve taken to screens as much as we can to help walk her through paying some of her bills online, downloading podcasts from the cloud, or getting her set up on a shared photo feed so she can see incoming images of the grandkids.
But not everyone has the bandwidth to support what sometimes feels like a part time job keeping their loved ones afloat, especially during such trying times.
“We believe in humans helping humans," says Owner Prashna Raniga, Ph.D. "Assisting those that are the most vulnerable part of the community is our priority.” When you call
A recent 5-Start Yelp review by client Mariam A. of Irvine speaks to the level of customer service you can expect: “Ola-Help! is an amazing service! I was looking for a someone to deliver some perishable items to someone locally and Ola-Help! was the PERFECT SOLUTION to my problem! I will definitely use this service again!”
Ola-Help! serves as your “one-stop, personal assistant” to navigate the myriad of online resources - whether you are looking for someone to run errands, seniors who need help with online purchases, scheduling transportation to a doctor’s appointment, grocery shopping or food delivery.
“We’re a tele-concierge service that understands the difficulties of living in a predominantly online community platform,” says Dr. Raniga. “It can be tough to know who to trust, or which app to open.” My Mom used to say how nice it would be if she had another set of hands to get everything done, and now you do: just call up Ola-Help!
Ola-Help! (833) 927-3782 OlaHelp.com
• Uncontrollable
• Urinary
• Getting up multiple times at
FIND
Or register by scanning the QR code with your phone’s camera:
Lennar Foundation’s $50M Gift Advances Lifesaving Cancer Research and Therapies
The largest single contribution to City of Hope Orange County establishes Lennar Foundation Cancer Center
World-renowned cancer research and treatment center City of Hope Orange County has received a $50 million gift from Lennar Foundation, the charitable arm of homebuilder Lennar Corporation.
This transformational gift of hope is the largest single philanthropic contribution to City of Hope Orange County. It will expedite the health care organization’s bold plans to invest $1 billion to develop and operate a comprehensive cancer campus in Irvine, California, and establish an Orange County network of advanced cancer care and research that will speed groundbreaking treatments directly to a community with growing needs.
The future 190,000-square-foot Lennar Foundation Cancer Center at City
of Hope Orange County will be located on 11 acres at Five Point’s Great Park in the heart of Irvine. It will bring best-in-class cancer care, pioneering research and lifesaving treatments to the county’s 3.2 million residents. Construction is already underway on the comprehensive cancer center, which will open in 2022. In addition, Orange County’s only hospital dedicated exclusively to treating and curing cancer will open at City of Hope Irvine in 2025.
“This generous gift of hope is a historic moment for City of Hope,” said Annette M. Walker, president, City of Hope Orange County. “Thank you to Lennar Foundation, which is united in our vision and understands the urgency of our work, helping us ensure that our promise to Orange County will be fulfilled. We are building a place of hope and healing that will serve
residents of Orange County and beyond for generations to come.”
City of Hope’s presence in Orange County offers local access to City of Hope’s National Cancer Institutedesignated comprehensive cancer center with world-renowned cancer physicians and researchers who are singularly focused on finding better treatments and cures.
Lennar Foundation Cancer Center at City of Hope Orange County will bring to the region a host of distinguishing services, including, local access to more than 1,000 physicians and researchers who are transforming laboratory breakthroughs into targeted treatments that offer the best hope for patients, access to hundreds of clinical trials that make 21st century treatments available to cancer patients meeting clinical criteria soon
life and affect every piece of it. I want everyone who hears those words to have the same compassionate care and access to the latest treatments that I had. Having City of Hope in Orange County changes everything for cancer patients — present and future. I’m so grateful to have this world-renowned care in my own community.”
ment to improving lives in the regions Lennar helps shape. A portion of the gift to City of Hope is designated to support clinical translational research between City of Hope and the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center of the University of Miami, thus uniting two organizations supported by Lennar’s generosity who share similar goals in developing new treatments and cures for patients with cancer.
Lennar Foundation’s gift to City of Hope is a generous continuation of Lennar’s longstanding support of the comprehensive cancer center. Jon Jaffe, co-chief executive officer and co-president of Lennar Corporation, is a member of City of Hope’s Construction Industries Alliance Leadership Advisory Council, which raises funds for cancer treatment and research. In recognition of his contributions, Jaffe was awarded City of Hope’s highest honor — The Spirit of Life® Award in 2004.
after they are developed, a range of treatment options and new ways for preventing and treating cancer in its early stages.
“City of Hope saved my life,” said grateful Orange County patient Nicole Petersen Murr. “My family and I will be forever indebted to my doctor and care team. Anyone who has heard the words ‘You have cancer’ knows how those words change your
As the country emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, Lennar Foundation’s extraordinary contribution underscores the importance of investing in local health care resources and increasing access to leadingedge care. For Orange County, it is a reminder that cancer does not stop, and that City of Hope’s mission is more important than ever.
Lennar has a long history in Orange County of developing thriving communities, including helping form the vision for a world-class recreation and lifestyle destination. This gift is an extension of this longstanding commit-
“Anyone who has heard the words ‘You have cancer’ knows how those words change your life ... I want everyone who hears those words to have the same compassionate care and access to the latest treatments that I had. Having City of Hope in Orange County changes everything for cancer patients — present and future.” - Nicole Petersen Murr
“City of Hope is a leader in the treatment of and race to find a cure for cancer and it’s gratifying to know that, with this gift, we will make a positive impact by expanding access to care and advancing the research that will treat, prevent and ultimately eliminate cancer — we hope this contribution will encourage other philanthropic leaders to support City of Hope in the fight against cancer,” Jaffe said.
City of Hope Newport Beach, the first phase of City of Hope Orange County’s expansion, opened in early 2020, providing Orange County residents first-time local access to worldrenowned physicians backed by the powerful City of Hope network. City of Hope plans to open other clinical network locations across the region.
To make an appointment at City of Hope Newport Beach, call (949) 763-2204. For more information on the progress of City of Hope’s Orange County expansion, please visit CityofHope.org/OC.
A quote from a grateful patient is displayed on a window of the future Lennar Foundation Cancer Center.
City of Hope Orange County President Annette M. Walker celebrates the Lennar Foundation gift with grateful patients, City of Hope leaders and Marshall Ames, Chairman of Lennar Foundation.
Tax Efficiency in Retirement
What role should taxes play in your investment decisions?
Provided by Ken Earwood
Will you pay higher taxes in retirement? Do you have a 401(k) or a traditional IRA? If so, you will receive income from both after age 72.
However, if you have saved and invested much of your life, you may also end up retiring at a higher marginal tax rate than your current one. In fact, the income alone resulting from a Required Minimum Distribution could push you into a higher tax bracket.
While retirees with lower incomes may rely on Social Security as their prime income source, they may pay comparatively less income tax than you in retirement; some, or even all, of their Social Security benefits may not be counted as taxable income.1
What’s a pre-tax investment? Traditional IRAs and 401(k)s are examples of pre-tax investments. You can put off paying taxes on the contributions you make to these accounts until you start to take distributions. When you take distributions from these accounts, you may owe taxes on the withdrawal. Pre-tax investments are also called tax-deferred investments, as the invested assets can benefit from tax-deferred growth.2
Under the SECURE Act, once you reach age 72, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from a traditional IRA, 401(k), and other defined contribution plans in most circumstances. Withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. Contributions to a traditional IRA may be fully
or partially deductible, depending on your adjusted gross income.
What’s an after-tax investment? A Roth IRA is a classic example. When you put money into a Roth IRA, the contribution is made with after-tax dollars. As a trade-off, you may not owe taxes on the withdrawals from that Roth IRA (so long as you have had your Roth IRA at least five years and you are at least 59½ years old). With distributions from a Roth IRA, your total taxable retirement income is not as high as it would be otherwise.2
Should you have both a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA? It may seem redundant, but it could help you manage your tax situation. Keep in mind that tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal from a Roth IRA also can be taken under certain other circumstances, such as the owner’s death.
Smart moves can help you manage your taxable income and taxable estate. If you’re making a charitable gift, giving appreciated securities that you have held for at least a year is one choice to consider. In addition to a potential tax deduction for the fair market value of the asset in the year of the donation, the charity may be able to sell the stock later without triggering capital gains.3
Remember, however, that this article is for informational purposes only and
is not a replacement for real-life advice, so make sure to consult your tax, legal, and accounting professionals before modifying your charitable giving strategy.
The annual gift tax exclusion gives you a way to remove assets from your taxable estate. You may give up to $15,000 to as many individuals as you wish without paying federal gift tax, so long as your total gifts keep you within the lifetime estate and gift tax exemption of $11.58 million for the year 2020 and $11.7 million for 2021.4
Managing through the annual gift tax exclusion can involve a complex set of tax rules and regulations. Before adjusting your strategy, consider working with a professional who is familiar with the rules and regulations. Are you striving for greater tax efficiency? In retirement, it is especially important – and worth a discussion. A few financial adjustments may help you manage your tax liabilities.
Ken Earwood may be reached at (800) 250-3029 or kenearwood@titanfinancial.net www.TitanFinancial.net
This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. Please note - investing involves risk, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty. This is neither a solicitation nor recommendation to purchase or sell any investment or insurance product or service, and should not be relied upon as such. All indices are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment.
Citations.
1. SSA.gov, February 22, 2021
2. IRS.gov, November 16, 2020
3. IRS.gov, March 25, 2020
4. Policygenius.com, December 21, 2020
A Year Changes You A Lot
Molly Keating, MA, CT O’Connor Mortuary
As hope begins to flicker in with vaccinations and re-openings, I feel the great temptation to forget all that we’ve been through this last year and move into the excitement of our “old” life.
But – we’ve all been changed dramatically by the pandemic. I know that there are parts of the depression, confusion, isolation and anger I experienced that taught me things.
I think the most stand-out experience of COVID has been the strange, shared depression. Never before have I experienced darkness where there was no one to lift it. It’s not that I didn’t have support, it’s that there was no one not going through what I was going through. The balance of suffering and joy was non-existent.
As we re-enter the bright territory of hope, here’s what I want to hold on to from the dark:
• Doing things differently – I don’t think any of us enjoyed the changes we’ve experienced. I HATE not seeing people’s faces – I just miss seeing smiles and understanding people when they speak to me (right!?). But experiencing changes
and adapting to a new way of living is a powerful process. This has ended up in my trying many new things and making a regular pattern in my life to bring more “new” into my life.
• Being present – I had to slow down, get creative, and I found that I had time to really be with the people I live with. I am deeply grateful for this and never want to lose this gift.
• Noticing myself – I learned quickly that I had good and bad COVID days. There was a lot of time for reflection and noticing. Realizing what I struggled with, what helped, and how I chose to cope was enlightening.
• More global thinking – Watching the world go through this brought a type of connection that I only ever feel during the Olympics. But this has been different. Being together in tragedy has broadened my empathy and
grown my consideration for my fellow-people.
There’s more, I’m sure – but I am very ready to focus on looking forward. But it’s important to make something meaningful out of all of this pain.
What this whole post actually is, is my attempt to “make meaning” out of this disaster of a year. We all need to do this as we grieve – it is natural and helpful.
So – how have you made meaning out of 2020 and COVID? What lessons will you keep with you – how did last year change you for the better?
A
Dermatologists can detect genomic markers of melanoma early, accurately and non-invasively with the revolutionary Smart Sticker™. Find a specialist that uses DermTech at dermtech.com/find-a-specialist
Melanoma: The Silent but Deadly Skin Cancer
May is Melanoma Awareness Month: Prioritize a Skin Exam with Your Dermatologist
You eat well, get lots of exercise and try to obtain at least eight hours of sleep a night — you’re doing everything right to maintain a healthy lifestyle. But when was the last time you had a skin exam?
The skin is the largest organ in the body and plays an extremely important role in our overall health and well-being. It serves as a barrier that protects the body from external stimuli, trauma and dangerous substances, it helps regulate the body’s temperature and is integral in balancing the body’s water. The skin is a warrior fighting on the outside to protect our insides — and it can also provide helpful clues about other issues the body may be experiencing, like stress or inflammation. For all these reasons, it is very important to take care of your skin — and not just the skin on your face! Regularly looking at the health of your skin and
proactively monitoring for changes or abnormalities is a smart way to help ensure you’re identifying anything suspicious that may indicate a larger health concern.
One of the most serious skin conditions that is often overlooked is melanoma. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that starts in melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin. Melanin is the pigment that gives skin its color. Melanoma can occur anywhere on the skin surface from the scalp to the soles of the feet. It occurs in areas that are easily seen on self-examination but can also occur in areas that are impossible to see without the help of a partner.
Melanoma, when identified early, has a 99 percent survival rate.[1] This number drops to 27[KG1] percent if it spreads to other parts of the body.1 It is considered the deadliest form of
skin cancer, and unfortunately, numbers are increasing worldwide.[2]
While the exact cause of melanoma is still unknown, several risk factors have been identified — notably, exposure to UV rays, either via sunlight or tanning beds. Other risk factors may include family history, genetics and skin type.2Although people with any skin color can develop melanoma, individuals with lighter skin tones, red hair or those who’ve had several severe sunburns in their lifetime may be at increased risk. Additionally, people who have a large number of moles on their body and/ or those who have a family history of skin cancer may also be more likely to develop melanoma.[3]
Most of us wear sunscreen on our face, neck and arms when we know we’ll be in the sun for extended periods of time. But I’ve found melano-
ma in areas that have never seen the sun (think: below the belt), and these are often places overlooked by most people. While some of these “hiding places” are common for melanoma, these are often areas of the body that can be very difficult to catch during a self-exam. When I was in medical school, my institution embarked on an educational campaign to inform beauty school students about skin cancer and what to look for. Often, melanomas or other skin cancers hide on your scalp or behind your ears — areas most people don’t think to apply sunscreen to or to check for abnormal spots or moles.
If you’ve identified an area of the skin that looks suspicious, your doctor may recommend a surgical biopsy. This is the standard method for detecting melanoma and involves the removal of part of the lesion for testing. Unfortunately, biopsies require local anesthesia, which means an injection. Many people find these injections uncomfortable, and the biopsy itself may sometimes lead to a wound and, potentially, a permanent scar. In a study from 2018, over 90% percent of biopsies to diagnose melanoma actually tested negative for melanoma![4] While it’s smart to be thorough, that’s a lot of cutting.
Fortunately, there’s an innovative, non-invasive tool for detecting melanoma that is currently available by a California-based company — DermTech. The DermTech test uses a clear sticker to collect skin tissue samples. This “Smart Sticker™” painlessly and non-invasively removes the most superficial layers of skin to obtain genomic material. This genomic material is tested by DermTech to look for
biomarkers correlated with melanoma, which help your doctor diagnose your lesion. The Smart Sticker is able to pull cells from the whole lesion by painlessly lifting away the outermost layer of cells from the surface. For context, a biopsy, which takes a small portion of the lesion, typically evaluates approximately 1-2 percent of a lesion.[5]
The DermTech test helps to determine which skin lesions have the biomarkers correlated with a pathologic diagnosis of melanoma. If the test is negative, a biopsy isn’t required, but you and your doctor should continue to monitor for any changes. If the test is positive, your doctor will perform a biopsy to establish the diagnosis.
The DermTech test is a new, effective option for detecting genomic markers to help clinicians assess melanoma with genomic precision — but maintaining healthy skin starts with you. You can’t test an abnormal lesion on your body if you don’t know it’s there! I typically recommend an annual skin exam for most people. If an individual has undergone previous biopsies, has a family history of melanoma, or has other risk factors associated with skin cancer, a doctor may recommend more frequent visits.
Melanoma can have devastating consequences if not caught early. This Melanoma Awareness Month, make it a priority to see a doctor, encourage your friends and family to stay current on their skin exams, protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen and other protective gear when outdoors, and avoid direct sunlight during midday hours.
This article was composed in partnership with DermTech.
Fleming Dermatology & Aesthetic Center 23141 Moulton Parkway, Suite 110 Laguna Hills (949) 916-5956
www.flemingderm.com
[1] Skin Cancer Foundation. “Skin Cancer Facts and Statistics.” 2021, https://www.skincancer.org/skincancer-information/skin-cancer-facts/.
[2] American Skin Association. “Melanoma.” 2020, https://www.americanskin.org/resource/melanoma.php.
[3] Mayo Clinic. Melanoma: https://www.mayoclinic. org/diseases-conditions/melanoma/symptomscauses/syc-20374884.
[4] Lott JP et al. Population-Based Analysis of Histologically Confirmed Melanocytic Proliferations Using Natural Language Processing. JAMA Dermatol. 2018 Jan 1;154(1):24-29.
[5] Dermatology Online Journal. https://s7xkb1ayo481q3m2c10fqdqr-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wpcontent/uploads/DOJ201912moFerris.pdf.
[KG1] Change “25” to “27” per reference listed: Bullet 8 listed under “Melanoma” section.
PERFECT CUT
"Whatever your hair needs, I desire and appreciate the opportunity to make your hair dreams come true.”
Some people are born great; some people create their own greatness.
For Victoria Vannini, creating with hair and giving her clients a style that reflects their personality and ‘true self ’ is more than just a “cut and color.”
“It begins with the consultation,” says Victoria. “I want to know about your lifestyle and career. [About] the hair products and tools you use. This is essential in evaluating the condition and texture of your hair and helps us to come to a place that is realistic - at the beginning and where we want to go for the future.”
Education is an important element to Victoria’s career. After graduating from cosmetology school, Victoria continued at the Vidal Sassoon Academy in Los Angeles. While apprenticing at the Carlton Hair Salon at Crystal Court for one year, she honed her skills with creative color and hair cutting. From there, she went on to be an educator for Paul Mitchell. She currently takes classes at the Unite Academy in Carlsbad.
a color.
“I want to stay current with color trends, foil placement, new haircutting techniques and strategies,” says Victoria, who sees her education as a hair stylist as ongoing. “The industry is currently on the cusp of using ammonia-free color. I want to give my clients the newest and best products that are on the market that will keep their hair in BEAUTIFUL condition Schwartzkopf's new color line 'Essensity' will do just that with 100% coverage without ammonia, odor, preservatives or alcohol! Also, all my highlights are done WITHOUT bleach!! Using Scrupples oil-based highlighing system ensures the quality of your hair stays intact."
Howard Salon
Howard Jones Salon
31271 Niguel Road
Laguna Niguel
32545 Golden Lantern Dana Point, CA
newest best products that are on the market that will keep their hair in BEAUTIFUL condition. Schwartzkopf's new color line 'Essensity' will do just that with 100% coverage without ammonia, odor, preservatives or alcohol! Also, all my highlights are done WITHOUT bleach!! Using Scrupples oil-based highlighing system ensures the quality of your hair stays intact."
Like surfers in pursuit of the perfect wave, who hasn’t taken part in the endless search for the perfect cut for their unique face and hair type?
Victoria Vannini is here to tell you that your perfect cut is closer than you think; right in her styling chair.
With over 12 years of experience with innovative color, corrective color and highlights, lowlights and glazing, Victoria is an award-winning colorist who prides herself in helping her clients "recharge" their hair with vibrant, pure color and luscious shine - all the beautiful hues with none of the harmful ingredients.“I've seen to many clients come in with over processed hai r, in need of an 'In Salon' protein treatment to restore their damaged hair."
With over 12 years of experience with innovative color, corrective color and highlights, lowlights and glazing, Victoria is an award-winning colorist who prides herself in helping her clients "recharge" their hair with vibrant, pure color and luscious shine - all the beautiful hues with none of the harmful ingredients.“I've seen to many clients come in with over processed hair, in need of an 'In Salon' protein treatment to restore their damaged hair."
“Every hairstyle has to be approached differently and requires thought. Just because a style works for Jennifer Aniston doesn’t mean it will work for every client’s hair texture and facial structure. Everyone is unique and it’s important to take the time to feel the hair to see how it moves, determine the best, most complementary hues and utilize top-of-the-line products that will enhance and strengthen the hair without any of the damaging ingredients."
“Every hairstyle has to be approached differently and requires thought. Just because a style works for Jennifer Aniston doesn’t mean it will work for every client’s hair texture and facial structure. Everyone is unique and it’s important to take the time to feel the hair to see how it moves, determine the best, most complementary hues and utilize top-of-the-line products that will enhance and strengthen the hair without any of the damaging ingredients."
1. Get frequent trims - Yes REALLY... Split ends leads to your hair losing length and strength !!!
2. Resist the urge to go Blonde (unless you are a Natural). When the cuticle of the hair is damaged from bleach, you can have more breakage or split ends.
3. Distribute the Natural Oils in your Hair... Don’t overwash, once to three times a week depending on condition and age of hair. Use a Boar bristle brush to distribute your scalp’s natural oils evenly to keep hair naturally moistened.
4. Finish your Shampoo and Conditioner with a cool rinse to seal the cuticle and strengthen your hair.
5. Avoid frequent Heat (styling tools) but when you do, use a heat protectant.
6. Eat the right foods. Feed your hair from the inside by increasing your protein intake with fish, beans and nuts.
7. Take a Good Multi Vitamin Supplement and 10,000 mg. of Biotin
FOR
The Watering Can is dedicated to telling your story through extraordinary and memorable designs. We specialize in creating spectacular and unique displays for:
Weddings
Baby Showers
Bridal Showers
Corporate Events
10 % off on Bridal Events booked in the month of May
Send the most exceptional luxury hand-tied bouquets anywhere within Orange County via same-day delivery.
Discover our carefully crafted collection of beautiful fresh, and sophisticated flowers at www.thewateringcan.florist or call (949) 491-2725
OPERATING HOURS
Monday - Friday 7 AM - 7 PM Saturday 7 AM- 5 PM
Now accepting pre-orders for Mother’s Day bouquet or arrangement Free delivery for orders $65 and higher in South OC
info@thewateringcan.florist
Freedom from the Seat of an E-Bike with Doheny Bike
By Jody Robinson
In the last years of the 1800’s, there was an era-defining shift propagated by a steel steed on two wheels. The bicycle. Newspapers around the world commented on the fad, especially as it pertained to its most favorite audience: women. The Columbian, out of Pennsylvania, reported in 1895, “she is riding to greater freedom”.
Elizabeth Cady Stanton declared that “woman is riding to suffrage on the bicycle.” Since the turn of the century, there have been ebbs and flows in the bicycle’s popularity: but nothing like the surge that we saw as the Covid-19 pandemic forced Americans into lockdown in the early months of 2020.
In April, bike sales grew 75% over last year. No doubt much of the trend can be credited to the E-bike - the evolved and infinitely more exciting electric iteration of the traditional twowheeler. Jason Spates, co-owner of the Dana Point-based Doheny Bike, couldn’t let the opportunity pass him by. Like Ms. Stanton though, he saw the new business as a mobility store: dedicated to get his clients outside, active, and smiling again.
“We recognized the opportunity to give back, to contribute to our community that shaped our childhood, and it felt natural to encourage mobility and personal freedom when the pandemic had taken so much of it away.” Jason, and his business partner Micah Meiring, are a couple of local Dana Point dads, lucky enough to have lived near the world-famous
Doheny Beach surf spot their entire lives. “Our freedom was nearly unlimited as kids in the 1970’s and 80’s - we wanted our kids to be as mobile as we were.”
The idea of access and freedom have long been associated with the bicycle, and Doheny Bike believes in sending its patrons out on adventures to places unknown, where they might not have ventured before. They set out to provide an affordable solution for everyday mobility.
"With the average buyer's budget in mind, we wanted a functional riding experience that is not trendy, awkward and limited to your hometown," says Micah. "Creating the agility of the Fold N’ Go anywhere design, we have provided a solution to buyers that want to travel in a smaller car with electric bikes and ultimately extend their outdoor adventures."
As parents, Jason and Micah stress the importance of safety, and encourage all riders to be over 16, along with the importance of sizing the bike out, wearing a helmet, and meeting minimum requirements to ride the bikes safely on the road.
“It should be fun, but we’re also thinking beyond fun, to community, individual expression, and the ability to remain mobile when so many of us are trapped in stasis because of the pandemic.” On a single charge, you can ride up to 50 miles. Put a basket on the back and you’re ready for the store or farmer’s market. “I wanted something better than traffic in my car and I just knew that the options
Doheny Bike is partnering with the City of Dana Point to
We believe every bike ride should start with a helmet.
DOHENY BIKE provides bicycle helmets for as low as $25 for all ages. Great selection of Retrospect and Thousand Brand. Join Us on May 22nd at the Dana Point Farmers Market! Limited Supply of Free Helmets 10 am - 12 pm.
I had to help my community needed to be affordable and reliable.”
With a background in commercial truck leasing and loans, and an early pandemic ride on his nephew’s electric scooter, genius was born. “There’s something about being out in the fresh air that made a great start to the day.” The recent cycling boom couldn’t agree more.
Owners Jason Spates (L) and Micah Meiring
The Mental Health Consequences of COVID-19
An Interview with Dr. Sarit Hovav, American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association
By Jody Robinson
One of the greatest thought experiments of all time describes a wooden ship: have you heard of it?
The problem asks if the ship remains itself if all of its individual pieces are replaced, one by one. Over the last year, this puzzle has rattled around in my mind, paralleling at times, the question of sameness when it comes to the unprecedented ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic on our global population. If something begins one way, and changes and changes and changes, can we still emerge into sameness when everything is said and done?
Dr. Sarit Hovav, M.D., FAPA believes the ship will never be the same, and yet at the same time, that on what we may sail out from the harbor could be even more glorious and steady than where we once began.
Founder of Lifetime Insight, Dr. Hovav is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. An honors graduate from medical school, she went on to complete a postdoctoral fellowship in Brain Stimulation and Neuroimaging in Mental Illness at UCLA’s prestigious Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. Well-equipped to answer any question one might have about mental health or the interplay between it and overall well-being, Dr. Hovav believes we are facing down “what may be the most urgent public health challenge worldwide for decades to come.” Due to the pandemic and the quarantine orders that followed soon after, the global populus is looking down at a ship which likely no longer seems recognizable. Social isolation, loneliness, lack of activity, binge-watching TV, fatigue, impaired self-regulation, overeating: the list is endless. “Increased access to alco-
hol, more online gambling, fear of negative economic effects; all associated with depression and anxiety. It’s no wonder that every study published to date has shown increases in self-reported symptoms of substance abuse, depression, trauma and stressrelated symptoms.”
I don’t think there is one human being on earth right now who hasn’t felt the mental effects of the pandemic in some way, from kids who have had to adjust to distance learning or are suffering in silence due to at-home abuse, to women with reduced options out of domestic violence cases under shelter-in-place orders.
“Even if there isn’t enough cause to seek help from a physician or other health care clinician, let us also not be surprised what the impact of the pandemic on global health for years to come,” says Dr. Hovav. The discussion, as we build our new ship piece by piece, turns to those with preexisting mental health conditions or metabolic syndrome. Something as simple as high cholesterol or excess abdominal fat can work in tandem to deliver a composite predictor of a lethal COVID-19 outcome. “Increasing the odds of mortality by the combined effects of its individual components”, Dr. Hovav notes, “as this cluster of conditions together create a syndrome that increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.”
As we piece it all together, bit by bit, it can begin to look a bit disheartening. Certainly, faced with a terrifying correlation between pre-existing mental health conditions triggering
metabolic syndrome, which in turn increases the lethality of the global pandemic makes the current waters seem impassible, despite the worthiness of the vessel. And yet. And yet. An incredibly favorable outcome brought about due to the pandemic? Telehealth. “While there were physicians providing this type of care pre-COVID, it was typically uncommon and almost never covered by commercial insurance.” Now, nearly every insurance on the market covers telehealth services, which brings more physicians and psychiatrists face-to-face with patients all over the country. “We’ve found that telepsychiatry is comparable to face-to-face services, and has shown high patient satisfaction.”
For some with anxiety, it is the perfect solution. No visit to an uncomfortable office, or negotiating an early leave from work. “The treatment outcomes are reliable, it’s more convenient, it’s covered and it’s more and more common.” The ship will sail. At some point, the waters will rise, and the ship, a ship, will leave port. Will it be the old or the new? In a lot of ways, that’s up to us. “If you need help, reach out. If you’re not getting the help you need, make an appointment. We’ll test the waters together.”
BRONWYN GORMAN | Decorating Den Interiors
By Jody Robinson
Over a half-century ago, a former fabric salesman named Steve Bursten had a vision: an unparalleled interior design catalogue that would match creatives to homes across the US and Canada.
Originally known as American Drapery Consultants, Steve took his dream to the streets, and within a single year, the first franchise was born. Today, with designers scattered across the states and our neighbor to the north, Decorating Den Interiors (DDI) can tackle a single room or build an entirely new home with you. To your style, with your specifications, using the best product possible.
An expert in her field, Interior Designer Bronwyn Gorman is more than a creative mind at DDI. Bringing a treasure trove of style to the table and a pocketful of tricks and tips to build out the most “you” space possible, her methodologies are deliberate and dedicated. “I truly believe that a home should reflect the people who live in it, not the person who designed it.”
A longtime Orange County resident, Bronwyn embraces the unique lifestyle of its population, and the indoor-outdoor spaces that reflect it. Where else can you hit the waves and the ski hill in the same day?
“A house isn’t just a home, it is your refuge, your sanctuary at the end of the day, and responsible for ushering you into each new one," she says. "I want to promote health and happiness with my designs - from the ease of process to the details in your favorite room.”
Bronwyn's business, a reflection of her personal values and ideals, takes the leap from outstanding customer service into genuine respect and care for her clients. “I’m passionate and motivated to understand each individual I have the pleasure of working with." And it shows in her projects.
From bedding to window treatments, furniture to light fixtures, no detail is too small. Once a budget is reached and agreed upon, a final consultation and presentation come to life, and the design of your dreams begins to take shape. Bronwyn’s design services couldn’t be more thorough or more convenient. Because she comes to you, she is able to see the lighting and get a feel for the flow/how things work in your home.
“Feeling like you’re understood and falling in love with your space each time you walk through the door don’t have to be mutually exclusive," says Bronwyn. "It's in our attention to detail and customization that we can truly make a difference, as we can offer options and resources to create a room like no other, one that is uniquely you."
BRONWYN GORMAN Owner | Interior Designer
bronwyngorman.decoratingden.com
48 HOUR AD PROOF
The Proof is in the Paint with ONE WAY PAINTING
By Jody Robinson
Photography of Jeff McCabe by Lana Farfan, Caught in the Moment Photography
Ralph Waldo Emerson famously said “who you are speaks so loudly I cannot hear what you’re saying.” Keeping this quote in mind has served me well over the years, particularly in choosing friends … and when seeking out the services of professionals. In my opinion, integrity isn’t a word heard often enough in the business world. Competitive, certainly.
But unfortunately phrases like “bottom-line oriented,” “unscrupulous,” even “cutthroat” have cropped up in the vernacular when hearing home improvement gone wrong stories from fellow homeowners. That’s why it was so refreshing to come across Jeff McCabe and his Orange County-based One Way Painting.
In business since 1976, Jeff and his team serve all of the OC and specialize in interior and exterior residential and commercial painting. They swear by the rules of professionalism: “no cutting corners. No cheap materials. We pay attention to every detail, and never call a job complete until the customer is completely satisfied.”
Some might call it good Christian values. Others might say it’s simply good
business. But for the last 42 years, working from the heart has earned One Way Painting such a respected reputation in the industry that the vast majority of their work comes through repeat customers or referrals from repeat customers. The company’s success isn’t merely rooted in customer service though. Boasting a superior knowledge of available product on the market and hiring the most profes sional crews in the business also goes a long way.
“Our reputation speaks for itself; but if it didn’t, we have 16 satisfied employees on our permanent payroll who would put a hand up in
defense of the standards we set,” says Jeff. Standards which were born and bred through a commitment to ethical business practices and hard work. In 2001, Jeff teamed up with seasoned professional Ron Bartz as a journeyman, then took over the company when Ron retired, and has been growing it ever since.
In 2009, Jeff took the pair of threeman crews and expanded the operation to encompass six crews, two office staff, and a project manager who oversees jobs, right alongside the man with the plan himself. “We currently have four trucks on the road and I’d like a full fleet someday. I’d like to leave a legacy for my daughters, and that means more than just cans of paint and a warehouse full of equipment and materials.”
To Jeff, it means taking care of his employees, taking care of his family: taking care of business. The hope is that One Way Painting becomes a household name, for its quality of work and quality of values.
My husband and I can happily attest to both. When we moved into our home in San Juan Capistrano five years ago, we acquired quotes for exterior painting from several contractors, but were particularly impressed with Jeff and his crew. Prior to starting work at our home, Jeff came by in person to go over what the job would entail and answered all of our questions. His team showed up right on time the first day - and each subsequent day - and at the end of each day everything was cleaned up before they left.
process and followed up immediately upon completion of the job to ensure that we were satisfied with the results and our overall experience of working with One Way Painting).
Their attention to detail is found from start to finish. For exterior projects, they begin by power washing to clean and remove any loose paint, mildew or mold. Then the patching: with stucco, trenching around the foundations and priming with an acrylic. They’ll treat your wood siding, eaves, fascia,
“We pride ourselves on working with a team of long-term employees - we do not hire off the street,” says Jeff. “We guarantee our work and do not require payment till the job is completed and the customer is completely pleased with our work.”
Jeff and his crew delivered on these promises and more than exceeded our expectations - the result was outstanding work, a job completed on time and on budget and defined by unparalleled customer service (Kelly in his office was hyper-responsive to our inquiries during the estimating
windows. Main doors, garage doors, trim. Even wrought iron, or other specialty surfaces like patio covers and fences. Most work depends on the client’s preference: flat to semi-gloss, acrylic or oil finish. Inside walls see flat, matte, eggshell, satin, semi, or hi-gloss. If you have natural wood cabinets and they need refinishing, One Way’s crew will see to it that they look new again. Also licensed and bonded as commercial painters, Jeff’s crew has been making businesses and their buildings look new again for 42 years. With a free on-site estimate, your custom needs are sure to have a custom solution. No deposits required, and “no surprises along the way,” Jeff is quick to add.
“I think at the end of the day what sets us apart is taking our time with each and every customer that comes our way,” says Jeff. “We run a business like every person we interact with is family.” They may not be the cheapest out there, but then that wouldn’t fly in Emerson’s eyes, and not in Jeff’s either. “Our business is based on the Christian ethic of treating every customer with honesty and integrity. Every job is done ‘as unto the Lord.’ Does this mean we’re perfect? No. It does mean that we strive to do the best painting job possible.”
• Our Japanese koi are hand picked during our annual trips to Japan.
• 35,000 gallons of display ponds with koi fish in all price ranges.
• All koi are quarantined, tested and treated properly before being released for sale.
• Open 7 days a week
• 1,500 sq. ft. water garden area where you can choose from water lilies, bog plans, floaters and other aquatic plants.
• We maintain over 200 koi fish ponds in OC!
• Our service fleet provides monthly maintenance and pond filtration upgrades.
Laguna Niguel Promenade is excited to announce the opening of Keller Williams Realty-Laguna Niguel! Whether you’re buying your first home or selling to upsize or downsize, Keller Williams Realty knows it’s a BIG decision. When you choose to work with Keller Williams, you’ll get agents who use the best tools and technology to buy or sell your property. Plus, you’ll get transparency & instant communication throughout the entire process. You can relax knowing every detail is taken care of!
Keller Williams Realty Laguna Niguel is located at 27941 La Paz Road, Suite #C, right next to Avila’s El Ranchito. Whether you’re buying or selling, or if you just have a question, stop by or give them a call!
The shops & restaurants at Laguna Niguel Promenade are following Orange County guidelines regarding Covid-19 health recommendations for your safety and the safety of their staff. Call or check online for individual stores updated hours and safety policies. Thank you for your support!
Award-Winning CBD for Pain Relief, Skin Conditioning and Sexual Pleasure
“Our need will be the real creator,” Plato famously wrote in his Socratic dialogue, Republic. In layman’s terms? Necessity is the mother of invention. Crystal Rae, Certified Clinical Herbalist and Co-owner of FEED CBD: living proof. A long-time sufferer of eczema, she began experimenting with homemade tinctures and balms early on. Finding her way into cannabis culture wasn’t a far reach, as the herb has well-known healing properties, like many other medicinal plants. Now, as a self-proclaimed “huge advocate” of skin-based education, Crystal combines medicinal herbs for maximum synergy and potency.
After suffering from the side effects of cortisone creams and prednisone, Crystal took to infusing herbs and cannabis into olive oil and apply-
ing it to her skin. With great results. Transferring her success into crafting custom formula massage creams and other skin care products for her clients from plants she grew and harvested herself, Crystal found herself on the path to becoming a Certified Clinical Herbalist. A couple winning turns in the Emerald’s Cup Topical category later, she and a business partner began Feed CBD.
“Your skin is incredibly important to total body health,” she says. “What goes on, goes in.” Since your skin clocks in at the largest organ in the human body, Crystal will be the first to tell you that your hair and body products should bolster your endocannabinoid system. “That’s why we call our brand FeedCBD: our products feed your skin.”
Using only culinary grade ingredients, Feed’s core philosophy leads them to crafting safe, sustainable, organic, non-toxic creams that “cause no harm to people or the planet. We use old-world alchemy methods, and unrefined, organic plant oils to harness the healing power of medicinal herbs. Transforming CBD hemp flowers into 4 different extracts is no small feat, but it is our pleasure to combine them into healing remedies for your body and soul.”
For pain, for your skin, or for your sexual pleasure, Feed’s products stimulate blood flow, soothe pain, take care of swelling, help to repair damaged skin, heal cracks, rashes, and even cold sores. Immortelle, Tumescence, Vitality, Radiance, Euphoria. Feed calls it like it is: and more, like it should be.
It’s Not Epoxy, It’s SpartaFlex!
For nearly 40 years, southern California homeowners have used Epoxy for garage and industrial floor coating projects despite its tendency to yellow, it’s soft and easy to scratch surface and it’s tendency to be permanently damaged by the hot, high performance tires found on most cars in the OC area.
Today OC homeowners don’t have to settle for Epoxy and all of its flaws anymore. SpartaFlex is an advanced, next generation 100% solids polyaspartic floor coating that gives your garage a beautiful finish that is 3x harder than epoxy, resists yellowing while also resisting permanent damage from hot tires. Perhaps best of all, SpartaFlex comes with a much better warranty than Epoxy.
Perkins Custom Coatings has been installing SpartaFlex on OC garage floors for nearly 14 years and has completed over 9,000 floors during that period of time. Its CEO and owner, Paul Frankel is considered by many to be the most knowledgeable contractor in the local market. “Unlike many of our competitors, we strive to do an onsite assessment including a moisture test for every floor coating project we install and instead of using the ‘one size fits all’ approach, we develop a coating solution that we believe will last for decades not just for a few years.”
Perkins uses only the most advanced surface preparation methods available and will either diamond grind or shot blast every floor that he installs. Old, failing, yellowed ep-
oxy coatings can also be removed during this same process. “Despite the fact that Coatings Industry requires concrete to at least be diamond ground before installing a new coating system, many of my competitors will install their coatings right over raw or pressure washed concrete just to save a few bucks - I will never do that” says Paul.
Perkins also is known for its professional and unique approach to repairing concrete cracks. “Anyone can slap some crack repair paste to cosmetically fix a crack” says Paul. A year later, when the concrete moves again and damages their brand new floor coating, the devastated homeowner will learn that this damage is not covered by the typical Epoxy warranty. “We are the only company that I know of that uses a ‘structural crack repair’ technique to fix cracks. The process is so effective we can offer our customers a warranty that can cover future damage from cracks!” says Paul.
After the surface prep is completed, a very effective moisture control primer is applied to the concrete. “This is extremely important” says Paul because for many homes built in Socal before 2005, elevated moisture vapor levels in the garage concrete can have a detrimental impact on floor coatings. Paul does a fast and non-destructive moisture test for every one of the pre-2005 homes he visits and develops a unique installation plan for each home. For newer homes, Paul and his crew can use a basic primer that dries a bit faster allowing installation of a garage floor in as little as one day!
The color chips that give the Perkins floor its legendary appearance are sandwiched between this primer and finish coat. Perkins carries the widest selection of colors and sizes in the market and uses a ‘full chip broadcast’, not a partial sprinkling of chips like many of its competitors. “The full chip broadcast gives the floor a consistent appearance and makes the floor much more durable and helps hide dirt better than the partial broadcast finish” says Paul.
Finally, Perkins installs the SpartaFlex polyaspartic finish coat and the finished garage comes to life. “Epoxy & SpartaFlex floor coatings are virtually identical in appearance when they are first installed” says Paul. “However, when you will really begin to appreciate a SpartaFlex floor is a few months down the road when you would typically start to see problems develop with an Epoxy floor. If there was a better material on the market, I would be selling it, but there isn’t and that is why we love selling SpartaFlex.”
For more information or to see for yourself the advantages of SpartaFlex over Epoxy, you can call Perkins Custom Coatings, at 866-330-1DAY (1329) or visit their informative website at www.perkinscustomcoatings.com.
New Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment Reduce Pain Without Harmful Drugs or Dangerous Surgery
Infinity Medical and Wellness offers a tremendously successful treatment option - FDA Cleared and Covered by Medicare and Most Major Medical Insurances
Are you or a loved one suffering from chronic pain caused by peripheral neuropathy? Do you experience pain, numbness,
burning, tingling, or tightness in your hands and feet? Have you tried multiple therapies and medications (i.e. Gabapentin, Cymbalta, Lyrica and
Neurontin) only to experience side effects and with little to no relief? Would you like to try a natural treatment that is covered by insurance?
Call us to find out if you are covered. Most of our patients pay little to nothing and see a decrease in pain in only a few treatments.
We use a cutting-edge electrical cell signaling device to increase blood flow and nutrient delivery to sites of pain. This helps give the nerve cells the nutrients they need to get you out of pain and remain healthy.
Depending on your coverage, YOUR TREATMENT COULD BE LITTLE TO NO COST TO YOU. The amount of treatment needed to allow the nerves to recover sufficiently varies from person to person and can only be determined after a detailed physical exam.
Call to make an appointment to determine if your chronic pain and peripheral neuropathy can be successfully treated.
YOU DO NOT HAVE TO SUFFER ANOTHER MINUTE. CALL NOW!
We are extremely busy. If your call goes into voicemail, please leave a message. We will call you back ASAP.
Pets of the Month
Ten year old Carmel is an absolute sweetheart. Though she may be considered a senior cat, she definitely still has a lot of pep in her step! Carmel is both active and outgoing and never fails to hurry over with a happy meow. With her loving yet independent personality, Carmel would be a great fit in almost any home.
This sweet guy is Peppermint, a two year old neutered male rabbit now available for adoption. Quite the sociable little bunny, Peppermint hops right up to greet you. He is fairly docile and doesn’t mind being held or handled. Peppermint would make a wonderful companion to someone looking for a smaller pet.
Grayce is an eight year old tortie who is ready and waiting for her forever family. She has a friendly disposition and does well when meeting new people. Grayce also gets along with other cats and likely wouldn’t mind having a feline roomie. Could this grey and gregarious little girl be a match for you?
If you are interested in adopting an animal listed here, please visit www.PetProjectFoundation.org/Adoptions/AdoptADog or www.PetProjectFoundation.org/Adoptions/AdoptACat to download an adoption application form. Completed forms can be emailed to AnimalServices@scdpanimalshelter.org and you will be contacted about making an interaction appointment.
The Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa: An Oasis in Palm Desert
By Jody Robinson
I’m not certain, but I’d guess that if you mentioned Palm Desert in a conversation anywhere in Southern California, you’d get a few reactions. There’d be a group who’d talk exclusively about Coachella, a massive music festival that takes over part of the desert every year. Another group would probably mention the worldclass golf courses. A third might start gushing about the gorgeous resorts, spa getaways and vacation spots located in Indian Wells. They’d all be accurately depicting one of California’s most iconic desert communities.
Founded in 1967, the city of Indian Wells - located in Riverside County - marks the heart of SoCal’s desert resort destinations. City leadership has long spent time ensuring the area boasts the most verdant golf courses, hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, and of course, stylish boutiques, delicious restaurants, and premier resort properties.
Pre-pandemic, our family of avid travelers often sought out unique retreats for spring breaks, summer vacations and long weekends. In the midst of
a more restrictive environment over the past year, we discovered a true silver lining in the abundance of local “stay-cation” destinations so close to home. Short on travel time/driving distance. Long on amenity, attraction, recreation and relaxation.
Among our favorite recent finds? Nestled at the foot of the Santa Rosa Mountains, the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa in Indian Wells is a pristine oasis in the desert valley. Following a recent multi-million dollar renovation, the reimagined resort is a distinctive property with a nod to the hotel’s storied legacy and star-studded history, which is incorporated into its intriguing new look. An early home to Hollywood icons from Bob Hope to the Rat Pack, the resort is a favorite among new and up-andcoming generations of icons.
The property showcases 560 luxurious, oversized guest rooms (including 103 spacious suites) - all with
balconies and breathtaking views of the mountains, pool or golf course. Design features start in the stunning multi-story lobby (think grand staircase, indoor fountain and cozy workspaces with views of the surrounding lush Mediterranean-inspired landscaping) and extend throughout the resort to a gorgeous outdoor gathering area, an intimate olive tree grove and what is arguably its crown jewel - the largest pool in the desert - complete with cascading waterfall and sandy beach.
We opted to while away the better part of the day and rented a private cabana – the perfect perch from which watch over the kids as they swam and splashed to their hearts content. The H2O Pool Bar meant that we didn’t need to venture away from the water’s edge for light fare and drinks - and bonus! the umbrellas are equipped with solar panels so you can charge your electronic devices if you don’t want to completely “unplug.”
FARM-TO-TABLE FARE
The resort’s signature restaurant, CAVA, serves up authentic, freshly prepared American cuisine. We dined al fresco on the scenic outdoor
terrace with expansive views of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Our kids love room service, so it was a nice opportunity for my husband and I to enjoy an aperitif in The Place Lobby Bar, a lovely open cocktail lounge located in the heart of the property.
Looking for an active vacation? The Renaissance Esmeralda is surrounded by 36 holes of championship level golf. Indian Wells Golf Resort is one of the few properties to have two courses ranked in the Top 25 “Best Municipal Courses in the United States” by Golfweek Magazine. The
Celebrity Course & Players Course AKA “Beauty and the Beast” have hosted Golf Channel’s Big Break and the PGA’s Skins Game.
Adventure seekers can head out for hiking or mountain biking on nearby trails while guests like me looking for a more relaxing retreat will head straight to Spa Esmeralda, a 13,000-square-foot full-service spa that combines intimacy, serenity and wellness for guests. The spa features 11 indoor treatment rooms, eight treatment cabanas, one indoor couple’s suite, men’s and women’s steam rooms and relaxation lounges, as well as a garden courtyard with a plunge pool.
Be it a romantic, family, business or leisure trip, the beautifully appointed accommodations are waiting to welcome you back at the end of the day. Top up in the morning with a yummy beverage from Cafe Biscotti and start anew with fresh fare from CAVA, or the H2O Pool Bar, with simple offerings and tasty cocktails. Burn it off, soak it up, and everything in between. There’s something for everyone.
Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa 44400 Indian Wells Lane Indian Wells (760) 773-4444
Mindful Mom
By Anthony Cupo
Nothing in the world can fully describe the emotional roller coaster that is motherhood. Motherhood marks a new chapter in a woman’s story and brings with it a new sense of purpose and meaning to life.
Mothers experience a myriad of new emotions and a fierce love for their children, like they have never felt before. Nonetheless, motherhood can get overwhelming and exhausting. Some days you may feel like you are being pulled in a thousand different directions, making you feel drained and in desperate need of some peace and quiet. This is where the art of mindfulness comes in. Mindfulness is a free and powerful tool that any mother can use to feel calm and present. Mindfulness has helped thousands of individuals be present in the moment, allowing their minds to be still. Applying mindfulness to your mothering can give you peace of mind, something that seemed to be a thing of the past since you entered motherhood. We will take a look at a few reasons why incorporating mindfulness into your mothering might be the best decision you ever make and a couple of ways you can begin incorporating it into your daily life.
Famous words from Diane Von Furstenberg, “the most important relationship is the one you have with yourself”; she is right. We can easily get lost in our children and completely forget about ourselves. The first step of taking care of others is taking care of yourself. If you are not at your best, you cannot give your children your best. Practicing mindfulness allows us to be kind and accepting of ourselves while not giving into negative thoughts, like we are not a good parent or we are not spending enough time
with our children, that leave us stressed and frustrated with ourselves. Mindfulness allows you to confidently acknowledge these feelings and process them without feeling overwhelmed by them. With consistent practice, you will feel yourself becoming happier and becoming calmer. Allowing you to develop better methods to discipline your children without snapping at them and having better control of your anger.
BONDING WITH YOUR CHILD
There are very few things in the world as unique as the mother-child bond. What if I told you mindfulness could help you have a stronger bond with your child? Mindfulness is all about being completely present in a moment. Practicing mindfulness can help you be fully present in the moments you interact with your child giving them your undivided attention. It gives you the power to let go of whatever kind of mother you think you should be and enables you to just be with your child and soak in the time you have with them.
Furthermore, mindfulness allows you to be more aware of others and their feelings. Hence it can help you better understand your child’s moods and feelings at the moment and respond to their needs with love and compassion. This can be especially useful the next time your child is throwing a tantrum.
REDUCE OVERREACTIONS AND BETTER CONTROL YOUR EMOTIONS
Let’s be honest with ourselves, though you may love your children to bits, you must admit that sometimes they can push you to the limit. Children have this uncanny ability to push us to our absolute limit. However, by regularly practicing mindfulness you may find yourself with the unique ability to have complete control of your emotions. Now we are not saying that you will never get angry or frustrated with your child with your new-found mindfulness. Instead, you will be able to acknowledge these feelings, calmly process them, and discipline your child accordingly. Imagine that you go to your child’s room and find they have decided to decorate their room with a sharpie. While normally your first instinct might have been to yell, with regular mindfulness practice you can handle the situation more calmly and discipline your child without having to yell at them.
ENHANCE YOUR INTUITION
As a mother, you get advice and information from every corner. Sometimes all this information can get overwhelming and confusing as you wonder which advice to follow and which to disregard. Mindfulness allows you to access the greatest asset any mother has, your intuition. Practicing mindfulness can help you intuitively know what feels best for you and your child while effectively catering to their needs with no worries.
WAYS YOU CAN INCORPORATE MINDFULNESS INTO YOUR LIFE
• Take a Breathing Break - A breathing break will do wonders in reducing your stress and anxiety throughout the day. The best part is you can do it anywhere and it will barely take you more than ten seconds. If you are feeling overwhelmed during the day, take a moment to tune into your breath. You can even put a hand on your chest to help you feel the movement. Whatever the situation, I guarantee you will be calmer once you take a few deep breaths.
• Savor the Moment - Try to give your full, open, accepting, and discerning attention to all your tasks throughout the day. No matter how mundane. Focus on how they make you feel. Find happiness in the moments with your children.
Mindfulness can make your motherhood a delightful experience. However, note that mindfulness is like a muscle, to grow it you need to regularly practice. Incorporating the above methods in your daily life can go a long way in making you a more mindful mother.
Anthony Cupo is a trained mindfulness facilitator (TMF) from the UCLA Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. He is a co-owner of Stepping Forward Counseling Center, LLC and has been meditating for over 30 years.
Therapeutic Social Skills Programs with Doc Joc’s Sports, drama therapy, art therapy, and other fun activities that call for a range of “natural” social skills, so as to encourage clients from the ages of 0-21 to achieve goals, conquer fears, build confidence and self-esteem while having fun. With a 3-1 ratio, our team is led by Ph.D., LCSWs, clinical & teaching professionals as well as other higher educated licensed professionals.
Mission Viejo Wigs: Where Customers are “Family”
by Jody robinson
Mission Viejo Wigs is truly a family business. Not in the traditional sense, where its owners and operators share the same genes. But rather in such a way that every person who has walked through Owner Betty Darroch’s doors in the 30+ years she has been in operation immediately felt like a member of Darroch’s extended family.
As a professional hair and wig stylist since 1962, Betty began her career at CBS where her résumé reads like a celebrity screenplay starring the coifs of a veritable “who’s who” of Hollywood: Ann Margaret, Carol Lawrence, the Midnight Specials and the Sonny & Cher Show. She went on to work for the Hallelujah Hollywood Show at the MGM Hotel in Las Vegas.
But it wasn’t until she opened her own business in Mission Viejo that she felt as though she were “truly doing God’s work.”
Her clients today include people who are experiencing hair loss due to chemotherapy treatment, alopecia or other medical conditions. Betty specializes in wigs, hairpieces and toupees for women, men and children and carries only the highest quality brands. Each wig or hairpiece is custom fit to the client for the most natural look and feel – no one will know you’re wearing a wig unless you tell them.
received many compliments on her “new do” and no one was the wiser.
It’s been over nine years since my mother completed treatment and is now leading a cancer-free life. Although her own hair has long since grown back, she still often prefers to wear Betty’s wigs on “bad hair days.”
Thank you Betty!
“Hair loss, whether it is the result of illness, the aging process or heredity, can be a traumatic and emotionally draining experience,” says Betty. “We work with people on a daily basis who are facing the issue of hair loss for the first time. Our goal is to help you find the solution that works best for you and do so in a caring way that makes you realize that you are not alone.”
There are wonderful testimonials from longtime customers on her web site (missionviejowigs. com), but for me, the best testament to Betty’s genuine, caring nature came from a source closer to home.
When my mother was diagnosed with lung cancer six years ago, there were so many aspects of what she was facing - including the side effects associated wit chemotherapy treatment – that were out of our control. But my mother’s appearance was something she felt she could dictate. We knew she would lose her hair, but she was determined not to “look like a sick person.”
From the moment my mother met Betty, she knew she had found the right place and more importantly, the right person to help her. Betty shared so many stories of survival – of longtime customers and friends who fought a similar battle and won. Her warm embrace and inspired hope and help steel her resolve to maintain a positive, fighting attitude when she was diagnosed with lung cancer.
The wig Betty selected was the perfect color and style for my mother’s face (and head) shape. The wig was so natural looking that my mother
Travel Can Be Tough on Your Legs
Medical compression stockings and socks are a travel essential
By Livia De Los Rios
Many people travel long distances and have to remain seated for two or three hours or even longer. They might not think much of it, but when movement is constrained, the blood circulation in the legs is restricted. This can contribute to heavy legs, leg pain and swollen feet and ankles.
Prolonged sitting is also a major risk factor for the development of phlebitis and Deep-vein Thrombosis (DVT). Deep-vein Thrombosis involves the formation of blood clots (thrombi) in the deep leg veins during prolonged inactivity. In some cases, blood clots
can migrate to the lungs resulting in a pulmonary embolism.
When seated without moving for a few hours – whether by plane, train or automobile - the risk of DVT could be four times higher and can happen
Livia De Los Rios is the
Tips to reducing the discomfort and risks associated with prolonged inactivity:
• Wear comfortable clothing
• Drink plenty of fluids (avoid alcohol)
• Stand up and stretch several times during travel
• Wear gradient compression legwear
to anyone during travel, regardless of age, weight or lifestyle.
JOBST™ medical compression stockings and socks are a simple and comfortable way to help avoid heavy, tired and achy legs and the swelling of feet and ankles.
Unlike the products available at your local drugstore, JOBST™ medical compression stockings and socks are recommended by physicians for their clinically proven gradient compression benefit. Medical compression products reduce swelling and helps prevent the pooling of fluid in the venous or lymph systems. The stylish cotton blend dress socks and compression hose available today increase tissue pressure to help balance the flow of fluid across the capillaries of the limb.
JOBSTTM compression socks
president and CEO of Allied Medical Supply.
Mother’s Day
Unique Gift Ideas
DOHENY
ELECTRIC BIKE CO.
31463 Pacific Coast Hwy. #100
Dana Point
949.427.3305
DohenyBike.com
Doheny Bike’s signature FOLD N’ GO collection E-Bikes come in an array of colors for Mom to choose from!
Skin Creams with a Cult Following!
Mom will love this pair of rich therapeutic skin repair creams: Immortelle’s deeply restorative properties help repair and nourish damaged skin at the cellular level while the luxuriously creamy Rose Vitality works on fine lines by regulating your skin’s moisture levels.
FLEMING DERMATOLOGY +
PJ HARLOW
154 Avenida Del Mar
San Clemente (949) 652-1232
pjharlow.com
The Ultimate Experience in Soft Dressing
of Dermatology, Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, Fellow of the American Society for Mohs Surgery, and
Laser Medicine and Surgery. Cosmetic services include Botox, Fillers, Laser and
SALON CAPISTRANO
32241 Camino Capistrano, Suite A-103
San Juan Capistrano (949) 493-2200
saloncapistrano.com
Give Mom the gift of a Tropical Vacation Facial & Brow Shape. Anti-aging fruit peel, pore cleansing, uplifting facial, hand and foot massage. $59/60 min.
Mom will adore anything from this buttery soft loungewear collectionall machine washable and dryer safe.
MONACO JEWELERS
Serving the community for over 30 years in the same location, Monaco Jewelers offers an extensive selection of the latest styles and designs in 14K/18K white gold. Super competitive pricing. Superb quality. Lifetime warranty. Special 12 Month, 0% Interest Financing. 33955 Doheny Park Road San Juan Capistrano JewelsbyMonaco.com 949.489.3510
MASSAGE ASSOCIATES
31952 Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano (949) 489-7924
themassageassociates.com
Specializing in Deep Tissue, Therapeutic Massage as well as Prenatal, Geriatric and Oncology Massage Therapy. Hot stone, reflexology and CBD massage upgrades available.
THE PERFECT WORKOUT
Virtual + In-Studio Options Available (310) 569-1517
Get stronger, gain energy, lose weight and avoid age-related health issues with a workout you can stick with! Introductory offer - FREE (a $225 value). 20 Minutes. Twice a Week. Guaranteed Results.
SKINNY JOE
www.luann.myskinnyjoe.com
Weight Loss Coffee
Your favorite cup o’ joe with added awesomeness! Fresh, natural ingredients - garcinia cambogia, super spirulina, green tea extract and acai - that taste great, combined with a healthy eating/ exercise plan will leave Mom feeling incredible. Call or text LuAnnfor a free sample: (949) 943-2757
VICTORIA VANNINI HOWARD JONES SALON
31771 Niguel Road | Laguna Niguel (949) 584-3885
An award-winning colorist, Victoria brings years of experience with innovative color, corrective color and highlights, lowlights and glazing. Schwartzkopf’s color line “Essensity” provides beautiful conditioning and 100% coverage without ammonia, odor, preservatives or alcohol. Victoria’s oil-based highlighting system is done WITHOUT bleach to ensure the quality of your hair stays intact.
SWEAT HOUSE
(Formally known as FIT Pilates Studio) SweatHouseOC.com
1001 Ave. Pico, Ste. H. + 24000 Alicia Pkwy. Ste. 30 San Clemente | Mission Viejo 3 Classes Only $25 (New Clients Only)
CONSERVATORY AT CURIOSITY
31105 Rancho Viejo Road
San Juan Capistrano 949. 240.9100
Many Designer Handbag Collections, including authentic Louis Vuitton.
BRIO TUSCANY GRILLE
CALIVA
www.Caliva.com
Bath Bombs
Surprise and delight mom this Mother’s Day with Well by Caliva’s luxurious and experiential bath bomb, formulated with 60mg of hemp-derived CBD combined with calming lavender and soothing peppermint oils. Treat mom to a little R&R on her day with a bath bomb that transforms an ordinary bath into a silky, CBD-infused experience.
24050 Camino Del Avion | Dana Point BrioRestaurant.com | 949.443.1476
Give Mom a night off from cooking and whip up an Italian feast for the family. Brio’s specialty line of Italian foods includes infused olive oils, organic and gluten-free pastas, tomatoes and sauces.
Morena Tile & Stone Your Local Resource from Concept to Completion
Morena Tile and Stone, in San Juan Capistrano, is a 5000 square foot store showcasing one of the largest selections of tile, and natural and engineered stone in South Orange County. The business was opened in 2014 by John Schrab and his wife, Linda, with the goal of
their clients, while helping to bring their projects to life. From mild to wild and traditional to modern, they will assist in finding the perfect materials for your dream kitchen or bath. Morena’s designers are on hand to assist customers with navigating through the myriad of choices to get their project started and they serve as a resource every step of the way – from concept to completion
creating a convenient, local resource where one can find an abundance of fun, imaginative and up-to-date tile and stone – all under one roof.
As a family-owned business, John and Linda focus on customer service and building relationships with
Homeowners, designers and contractors love the vast product selection and convenience of shopping locally, in a store where everyone knows your name. John, a 4th Generation tile and stone contractor, is willing and available to answer your questions and provide advice on materials, design, and installation. He believes in treating cus¬tomers like family and understands what it takes to make your project come to fruition.
Whether you’re undertaking a major home renovation, updating your
kitchen island or installing a tile floor, Morena Tile & Stone offers all of the necessary components to manage your project in-house. Along with a gorgeous variety of materials for you to choose from, there’s also an onsite fabrication shop with a crew of master craftsmen that have worked for John for decades. This level of experience and cutting-edge technology, combined with old-world craftsmanship, provides clients with the reassurance that their project will be done correctly and beautifully. As John likes to say, “We make things pretty every day.”
Morena Tile & S tone:
“As a family owned business, we focus on customer service and getting to know our clients while we help bring their projects to life. From mild to wild, traditional to modern we’ll help you find the perfect tile and stone for your dream kitchen or bath.”
Visit Morena Tile & Stone when you’re ready to embark on your next home improvement project. John and Linda would love the opportunity to offer you a cup of coffee while you look around, and they’d be proud to add you to their long list of satisfied customers.
Mr. John Schrab, a fourth-generation stone fabrication and tile contractor took over Morena Tile five years ago and fulfilled his dream of owning his own tile store. Since then, Morena Tile has become a trusted resource for local contractors, designers and homeowners supplying natural stone, porcelain tile and engineered stone to projects both big and small in scope. Offering an abundant 5000/sf showroom with over fifty top manufacturers to choose from and a top-notch staff, Morena tile has reached the pinnacle amongst the ubiquitous onslaught of “big box design” options.
“Treating our customers like family is the first step. We invite all our customers to our showroom to look around and meet our staff, discuss their project or join us for a little lunch and conversation around our kitchen island. We’re here to help.” Says John.
Morena tile’s showroom proudly displays one of the largest selections of tile, natural and engineered stone in South Orange County. Morena Tile’s designers are on hand to help customers navigate the myriad of choices to get their project started - and serve as a resource every step of the way from concept to completion.
Whether your Kitchen, Bathroom, Flooring , Fireplace or BBQ project calls for granite, marble, travertine, limestone or Natural Quartzite, you can find it all at Morena Tile & Stone.
4 generations of tile
The Morena Tile team’s penchant for imagination and fun extends to its marketing - variations of this playful feline has become synonymous with the company’s moniker in South OC.
To connect with John and the p call (949) 489-8990, visit ww 5000+-square-foot showroom at 32951 Calle Perfecto in San Juan Capistrano
The future craftsman pictured here with father, grandfather and great grandfather
Owners John and Linda Schrab
Little Johnny with his pop, granddaddy and great gramps,
guys.
Why Repipe when you can ?
By Jody Robinson
Lead-Free, Leak-Free Pipe Protection
It is safe to say that I know nothing about pipes. I know a little about drywall, and some about framing; my husband has his general contractor’s license so I’ve picked up a few nuggets of knowledge over the years - albeit in conversation, not in practice.
Pipes, however, are a complete mystery. I have family who live on the East Coast, where pipes seem to burst with some degree of frequency in the winter, but that is the extent of my experience via six degrees of separation. Since our family moved into our “new” home in San Juan Capistrano a few years ago, we have since become something of an expert on experts: those who do and don’t know anything about pipes. There are a bunch of things I can now catch you up on: leaks, sprinkler lines, lead testing. But truly, all you need to know is this: In many cases, ePIPE can have your pipes restored the same day without displacing you from your home.
Topping my list of folks I’d call expert, ePIPE has been in business since 1999. With over 40 international and US-based patents, the company has contracts with the US Department of Defense, several counties across the States, schools, HOA’s, and thousands of individual homeowners nationwide.
Jason Houck, National Sales Director notes “twenty years ago this process was developed to be more convenient, less destructive, longer lasting, and healthier. Now it’s a patented, proven process used around the globe.” Traditional systems wreak havoc on a home, tearing up floors, walls, and ceilings. To get to the pipe, you have to get everything else out of the way: and then to replace the pipe, you have to remove what is there. “Instead of re-piping, we restore pipes in place. Many homes can be completed in a day, with the water going back on in a number of hours.”
Pool piping, fire sprinkler systems, water lines - ePIPE deals with it all. They’ll even test for lead and remediate as a LeadSmart® Service provider. Any number of factors can lead to corrosion in a system, often in as little as two years after installation. Any number of factors can lead to pinhole or slab leaks. So what happens next? If your pipes were simply failing due to changing water chemistry, perhaps you’re wondering if there is a better pipe? Turns out the restoration of your pressurized system can be as simple as drying, cleaning and applying ePIPE's patented epoxy coating. “The cleaning process prepares the internal pipe surface for proper bonding,” says Jason. “A bit like sanding before you paint.”
In researching what ePIPE has to offer in terms of the process, I don’t see the word drilling, or destruction, or demolition anywhere. Taking care of
a problem once it begins is one thing, but ensuring that you won’t have that problem for years down the road is entirely different.
Restored piping protects against corroding and pitting, in turn reducing copper and lead leaching.
“Because there is no need to destroy walls, ceilings, or floors, you save a significant amount of money in reconstruction costs,” says Jason. “I’ll keep saying it: we do the work without the mess and expense.” Ranked in the top 1% of over 300,000 California contractors, ePIPE is here to ensure your pipes deliver the way they were made to. That’s really all I need to know.
To connect with Jason and his team, call (866) 567-5106 or visit www.restoremypipes.com
IS YOUR BLADDER OUT OF CONTROL?
INTERSTIM® 2ND GENERATION BLADDER CONTROL DEVICE CAN HELP!
By Robert Pugach, MD & Evans Tran, PA
An overactive bladder (OAB) can result in too frequent trips to the bathroom, bladder leakage or urinary retention. These are common bladder symptoms that affect both women and men.
Bladder control problems should NEVER be considered a normal part of aging. Oftentimes, we cover up OAB symptoms and use expensive pads or diapers during the day. If you have tried treatments including limiting fluids, physical therapy exercises, bladder control medications or even bladder surgery - with limited or no success - there is an amazing alternative solution that can be effective for you!
The alternative is to continue to limit social and physical activities, family or friend interactions and physical intimacy.
At Pacific Coast Urology Medical Center’s Women’s Bladder Control program, we have treated thousands of bladder control patients. When medications and other treatment options prove to be ineffective, we offer a medical device called InterStim®
InterStim® is a tiny battery that is placed under your skin to deliver a signal to the nerves that control the bladder. This remarkable FDA-approved device has been in common use in the United States for more than 20 years!
Now, there is an improved battery that is MRI safe so you no longer need to be concerned about other effects.
How does InterStim® work?
One of the main causes of an overactive bladder or urinary retention is in the nerves that are near your tailbone. These nerves are responsible for controlling bladder function. Any disruption to these nerves may potentially cause bladder changes that include frequency, sudden urges, inability to make it to the bathroom in time, incomplete emptying or nighttime urination.
The Interstim® device sends a gentle, constant electrical impulse to the nerves that control the bladder and restores the bladder function. You will have a controller that is periodically used to adjust the setting of the battery/pacemaker and ensure that it is working properly. The results
are typically immediate and the relief you feel is amazing. You won’t even know when it’s working – it’s painless!
“Getting the Interstim therapy has created a new life for me. It’s terrific to be able to go out and run errands without having to plan “pit stops.” It’s truly wonderful being back to normal, to walk to the bathroom, particularly when I’m out in public. It gives me a great sense of security to no longer be obsessed with the need to control my bladder.” - MaryAnn K.
Read more patient reviews and view videos at https://www.pacificcoasturology.com/patient-videos/bladdercontrol/
FIND RELIEF TODAY!
Join us for a Zoom educational event and learn more.
May 5, 2021 5:30 PM
Pre-Register Scan with your Phone’s Camera
https://medtronic.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_z68_ o8DHQoKdmBlokatTvw
Bladder Control is the most common urological problem we treat at Pacific Coast Urology Medical Center. Call us at 888.735.4336 to schedule your appointment.
Mission Viejo Wigs
Serving South County since 1973
High Quality • Best Prices in OC
Beautiful, natural looking appearance
We make the wig look like it’s growing out of your scalp, not sitting on it!
When you experience hair loss due to medical reasons, it can be devastating. A wig can make all the difference in helping you look good and feel better about hair loss.
No matter what the cause - cancer, chemotherapy, alopecia, female pattern baldness or thinning hair ... Our goal is to help you look and feel your best!
25571 Jeronimo Road, Ste. 7
Mission Viejo
South Coast Shutter and Shades
Operating honestly and with integrity has served as the foundation for the continued success of the Laguna Niguel-based South Coast Shutter and Shades for over 32 years. Owners Tom and Donna Schuster launched their own company after realizing that “on our own we would be able to offer quality products in an honest environment to our customers, as well as servicing the products we sell.”
Specializing in custom shutters, blinds (mini, faux, wood, vertical), cellular shades, woven woods, plantation and security shutters and everything in between, Tom and Donna offer free in-home consultations for design as well as measuring, they always include free professional installation and prefer to bring all of the samples to each client’s home to go over the assorted styles and many color options to suit each home’s interior and its homeowner’s unique lifestyle.
“We listen to you and then incorporate your ideas with ours to design your custom shutters, blinds or shades,” says Tom. “Our portfolios and samples are very extensive, so you will be able to envision how your windows are going to look when complete."
Tom and Donna, credit their success to date to the quality of customer service they and their team give their customers, which in turn creates a wonderful repeat and referral business. “Although there may be providers of similar products, there is no one that can match our superior customer service – from showing up on time, making precise measurements and flawless installations - and with a professional ‘can do’ attitude,” says Donna.
Tom adds that “our pricing with unbeatable discounts, sales support and the fact that we offer our customers an in-house design team at no additional charge is the first step in setting us apart from our competition. I am proud to say that we have built a reputation in the business for having the highest quality, best beauty, fit and finish and value available. All of our products come with a lifetime warranty.”
A 5-Star Yelp rated company, South Coast Shutter and Shades boasts scores of glowing testimonials online, including Debora R of Laguna Niguel who writes "Donna and Tom are amazing! Great products, great prices, great service.I've used them twice for two different businesses and I could not be happier. Donna makes suggestions based on what I tell her
my needs are and she has been spot on with her recommendations. Installations by Tom are quick and easy. Highly recommended!"
Another reviewer, Doug W. of Mission Viejo posted that "From the first call, I knew I was dealing with a reputable, experienced, HONEST company. Donna and Tom are absolute PROS and obviously take pride in their work … Their price was very competitive. Also, what they quote is what you pay - keep that in mind when talking to the "other guys" whose price seems to go up and up. All appointments including install were FAST. The installation was flawless. I had a question later that evening about my motorized shades and they called me back IMMEDIATELY. My impression is that I could call them 5 or 10 years from now and they would just as helpful."
