D E C E M B E R 2 02 1
Holidays! A R T S + C U LTU R E T H E N U T C R AC K ER RE T U RNS T O SEG ERS T RO M C EN T ER FO R T H E AR T S TR AV E L CAPIS T R AN O L I G H T S AUTO + M A R I N E U NS T O PPAB L E AU T O M O T IVE G RO U P
‘TIS THE SEASON
TO LOOK GOOD
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
DECEMBER 2021 PUBLISHER
Michael Gerard | michael.gerard@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Holiday Magic CAN YOU BELIEVE WE’RE ALREADY WRAPPING UP 2021?
Barbara Kimler STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Karen Reuter AD DESIGNER
Rachel Chrisman
Time really flies when you’re having this much fun telling all the wonderful stories that make up our South County community and lifestyle. This month, we celebrate the magic of the holiday season with the return of the American Ballet Theatre’s production of The Nutcracker at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. This is a timeless holiday tradition, for the entire family, that you won’t want to miss!
L AYO UT DESIGNER
Dani Moore CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Michael Gerard, Barbara Kimler CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Karen Reuter, Doug Gifford, Rosalie O’Connor
We also highlight Mission San Juan Capistrano’s festive Capistrano Lights display and events. And, while you're there, stroll on over to the beautiful Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection, and enjoy the authentic Spanish cuisine at Ysidora Restaurant and lounge. Also, if you’re seeking the ultimate gift to give your loved one this season, how about a new luxury automobile? We’d like you to meet Paul Kraft—the new managing partner of Unstoppable Automotive Group. Unstoppable recently acquired Audi Mission Viejo and Volvo Cars Mission Viejo. And Paul is someone you'll definitely
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
want to meet. He and his team are raising the bar and setting a new standard for
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
exceptional customer service in the auto industry.
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
Finally, as this year comes to a close, we’d like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation for you, dear reader. We wouldn’t be here without you, and we look
AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
forward to another great year ahead. Blessings to you and yours. We hope to see you soon! 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
Michael Gerard, Publisher ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
ON THE COVER Christine Shevchenko and Thomas Forster in ABT’s The Nutcracker.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DOUG GIFFORD 4
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | December 2021
CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel
Proverbs 3:5-6 Laguna Niguel Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Laguna Niguel areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Laguna Niguel Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2021
FEATURES 12 Rodrigo Orsi International Master Stylist Serves Orange County’s Elite Clientele
16 ‘Tis the Season: Holiday Dreams Come True American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker Returns to Segerstrom Center for the Arts
22 Unstoppable! Paul Kraft Returns to South County as Managing Partner of Audi and Volvo Mission Viejo
22 16
28 Capistrano Lights Returns Holiday Traditions at Historic Mission San Juan Capistrano
28
12 DEPARTMENTS 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Good Times
10
Around Town
12
Local Limelight
28 Open House 32 Giving Back 34 Lifestyle Calendar
GOOD TIMES
Extraordinary Lives Foundation's Comedy Night Gala The Extraordinary Lives Foundation recently hosted a Comedy Night Gala supporting children's mental health and wellness. Held at the Wilcox Manor in Tustin, the event featured a dinner and comedy show headlined by Fritz Coleman, former NBC Channel 4 weatherman. ELF’s mission is to improve children’s mental health and wellness by providing educational tools, resources, and awareness events. elfempowers.org
8
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | December 2021
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AROUND TOWN the free shuttle, available from the Federal Building parking lot off Dorine/El Lazo. The event will go rain or shine unless conditions are determined unsafe. The parade route will end at Community Park this year. *Crown Valley Pkwy will be closed between Moulton and Niguel Road from 5 am-2 pm on parade day. cityoflagunaniguel.org
INN AT THE MISSION SJC HOSTS OPEN AIR HOLIDAY MARKET The Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection is excited to host its first annual open-air holiday market featuring small local businesses and craft artisans. This event is
9ROUND UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP
being promoted to the local community. A few of the early participants include Nuvo Oil, featuring
9Round 30 Min Kickbox Fitness, located in
the hotel’s private-label oil, “Reverence”; a craft
Laguna Niguel’s Town Center, is under new man-
coffee maker La Colombe Coffee, Mission Fine Art
agement. To celebrate, the studio recently hosted
Gallery, plus many more! The elevated evening will
a grand re-opening event which was attended by
feature live entertainment, food & beverage from
Laguna Niguel City Mayor, Fred Minagar—along
Ysidora, Santa Claus, and a hand-picked selection
with over 160 members, friends, and community
of local businesses that speak to the Inn’s purpose
supporters. 9Round provides its members with
in bringing the community together. The event will
fun, trainer-guided, kickboxing-style workouts in a
take place on December 15th from 4-6 pm. For
circuit format. For more information about 9Round,
more information, visit innatthemissionsjc.com
or to set up a complimentary 9Round trial workout with no obligations, call (949) 297-6911 or visit them online at 9Round.com
DANA POINT HARBOR BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS Join Dana Point Harbor for their fiesta-themed 46th annual Boat Parade of Lights. See a spectacular display of vibrantly decorated boats from 7:30-10:00 pm for three straight nights from December 10-12. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching is offering rides on any one of its decorated boats, singing holiday music while joining boaters from all over parading Dana Point Harbor for approximately 90 minutes! Adults are $46, Children $29 (ages 3-12) and Toddlers $10 (ages 2 and under). DanaPointHarbor.com
LAGUNA NIGUEL HOLIDAY PARADE RETURNS! Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade returns on
10
Saturday, December 11, at 10 am. Experience the
Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love
unique sights and sounds of the annual Laguna
to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/
Niguel Holiday Parade. Parade watchers are
LagunaNiguel using the Get In Touch link and let us
encouraged to bring chairs and take advantage of
know what you think.
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | December 2021
LOCAL LIMELIGHT
who Rodrigo Orsi, internationally acclaimed master hairstylist
title Partner, Andrea Orsi Beauty Lounge, Newport Beach.
advice Brilliant, clean, and pleasing hair not only makes us feel great, it is also a reflection of who we are and draws the right attention from others.
Rodrigo Orsi, master high-end stylist
“RODRIGO ORSI HAS BECOME ONE OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S MOST HIGHLY SOUGHT-AFTER HIGH-END STYLISTS” 12
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | December 2021
ARTICLE MIKE GERARD PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY ANDREA ORSI BEAUTY LOUNGE
The Andrea Orsi Salon Team
Rodrigo
ORSI INTERNATIONAL MASTER STYLIST SERVES ORANGE COUNTY’S ELITE CLIENTELE
female clients, his level of personal care exceeds expectations every time. Not a “talker,” Rodrigo listens and observes—laser-focused on each client’s needs. And his salon bookings are strategically scheduled RODRIGO ORSI IS WELL KNOWN IN BRAZILIAN SALONS AND
so there is never crowd or wait. “The client experience is most import-
FASHION CIRCLES. A 3rd generation hairstylist, his family was
ant,” says Rodrigo. “We don’t ever want our salon to feel impersonal.”
originally from Spain. After moving to Argentina, his grandmother
Another special skill: Rodrigo is ambidextrous with the scissors,
became a lifelong hairstylist and his grandfather, a barber. When
and he is a master of “point cutting” and the very precise Japanese
his mother later relocated to Brazil, she opened a salon in São
“Kariage” technique. “To be a great soccer player, you must kick
Paulo—the country’s largest city. Rodrigo and his sister, Andrea,
equally well with both feet,” said Rodrigo. “The same is true for the
grew up in this family salon… ensuring their destiny to carry on the
hands when styling hair.”
family business. Rodrigo is a passionate student of the craft. Spending 11 years at the prestigious Soho Japanese Hair Academy, he became a master
“When Rodrigo cuts hair, it’s a show,” exclaimed Andrea. That’s why he is booked six weeks in advance and rarely has time for lunch!” AndreaOrsiBeautyLounge.com or call (949) 432-5568.
of world-famous Japanese scissor techniques and methods. While studying, he also worked in his mother’s salon and operated two of his own. Three years ago, Rodrigo moved to Newport Beach and reunited with Andrea, who had relocated to Orange County several years prior. Andrea Orsi Beauty Lounge was born. Since then, Rodrigo Orsi has become one of Southern California’s most highly sought-after high-end stylists. Serving both male and CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel
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15
‘tis the season: holiday dreams come true AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE’S THE NUTCRACKER RETURNS TO SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE Scene from The Nutcracker. Photo: Rosalie O’Connor
16
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | December 2021
"In its annual holid ay engagement, A meric an Ballet T heat re will give 12 performances between December 10 t hrough December 19 in Segerst rom Hall."
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
fairytale costumes and exotic dances, is the
IS
ANNOUNCE THE
perfect way to introduce children to dance
RETURN OF ITS POPULAR TRADI-
and even inspire them to study dance and
TION – AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE’S
become a little Clara or Nutcracker Prince.
PLEASED
TO
CAPTIVATING
PRODUCTION
OF
THE NUTCRACKER.
As the lights dim and Tchaikovsky’s beautiful score fills the air, young Clara enters a
Co-presented by the Center and ABT with
dreamlike journey amid magical toy soldiers,
choreography by ABT Artist in Residence
mischievous mice, sparkling snowflakes,
Alexei
Ratmansky, The
Nutcracker is
and a glittering Christmas tree!
the beloved holiday story based on The
With an impressive cast of more than 100
Nutcracker and the King of Mice written by
performers, ABT’s The Nutcracker features
E.T.A. Hoffmann and set to a magical score
scenery and costumes by Tony Award® win-
by Peter Ilyitch Tchaikovsky.
ning designer Richard Hudson (Disney’s The
In
its
annual
holiday
engagement,
American Ballet Theatre will give 12 performances between December 10 through
Lion King). Lighting for the production is by Tony Award® winner Jennifer Tipton. The
Los
Angeles
Times
said,
Alexei
Ratmansky
has
December 19 in Segerstrom Hall. This
“Choreographer
year marks the 6th time that The Center
made his own Christmas miracle: a joyful
Nutcracker,
“Nutcracker” ballet that is ravishing and
Southern California’s grandest produc-
clever enough to inspire multiple viewings
tion of this beloved holiday tradition.
… in ‘Waltz of the Flowers,’ Busby Berkeley-
This Nutcracker features ABT’s international
esque waves of complex human patterns
all-star cast.
make this waltz one of the most astounding
has
presented
ABT’s The
American Ballet Theatre has a long, storied history of producing several criti-
and beautiful you’ll ever see … in all its wondrousness, an unreserved classic.”
cally acclaimed productions of this annual
The New York Times said, “Mr. Ratmansky
family-friendly classic tale of Clara and the
here is an enchanting storyteller, but his is
Nutcracker over the years (previous versions
among the most original, fascinating for chil-
were by Mikhail Baryshnikov and ABT Artistic
dren and adults alike. A production like no
Director Kevin McKenzie). The Nutcracker,
other, made with complete theatrical author-
with its timeless music by Tchaikovsky and
ity from first to last.”
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel
17
‘TIS THE SEASON (CONTINUED)
Claudia Schuman as Clara and Seth Koffler as the Nutcracker. Photo: Doug Gifford
This engagement of The Nutcracker begins a new three-year partnership of the co-presented annual production of Alexei Ratmansky’s The Nutcracker and continues with World and West Coast Premieres and engagements each spring through 2024 combining the resources of America’s National Ballet Company® and one of the nation’s leading presenters of dance. Single tickets for American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker start at $30 and are now available online at SCFTA.org, at the Box office at 600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa, or by calling (714) 5562787. For inquiries about group ticket discounts for 10 or more, call the Group Services offices at (714) 755-0236.
Hee Seo as Clara, The Princess and Cory Stearns as the Nutcracker Prince. Photo: Doug Gifford
Claudia Schuman as Clara. Photo: Doug Gifford 18
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | December 2021
Hee Seo as Clara, The Princess and Cory Stearns as the Nutcracker Prince. Photo: Doug Gifford CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel
19
WHAT DO WE DO?
LOCAL IMPACT • GLOBAL REACH We provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through our fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders. In 2021, Laguna Niguel Rotary funded two life saving clean water wells in Uganda, Africa
Want to make a difference?... Join Us Today! LagunaNiguelRotaryClub.org
20
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | December 2021
your story starts here
Uncover a place of new experiences where guests can explore the rich history and heart of California, just steps away from the ruins of the Great Stone Church and the Amtrak/Metrolink Station. Relax in your personal sanctuary with hacienda style guest rooms, take in views of the Mission San Juan Capistrano from the graceful arches and bubbling fountains on our courtyards, or embark on a walk through the charming downtown. 31692 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, C A 92675 9 4 9 . 2 6 4 . 2 9 3 9 | i n n a tt h e m i s s i o n s j c . c o m
Wherever you find yourself this Holiday Season, the Expedia Cruises Team in Laguna Niguel wishes you safe travels. We look forward to helping you plan new adventures by land or sea in 2022!
23866 Aliso Creek Road, Laguna Niguel (949) 273-5444 | CST:2138484-40 CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel
21
Unstoppable! ARTICLE MIKE GERARD | PHOTOGRAPHY KAREN REUTER
PAUL KRAFT RETURNS TO SOUTH COUNTY AS MANAGING PARTNER OF UNSTOPPABLE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP’S AUDI AND VOLVO CARS MISSION VIEJO PAUL KRAFT IS HAPPY TO BE HOME. Having grown
competitor in the frequent events held at Aliso Beach…
up in Laguna Niguel, he vividly remembers an earlier time
when there was still an Aliso Pier!
when El Niguel Country Club was brand new, Dana Point
But Kraft did not limit himself to the surf. He was a gifted
was still part of Laguna Niguel, and most of the homes in
athlete on turf as well. As a 10-year-old, his first job was
our community were not even concepts on paper.
golf caddying at El Niguel Country Club. This is where he
As a young man, he attended Dana Hills High School
developed his love for the links. He laughs when reflecting
and was an accomplished waterman—sponsored by
on the challenge of lifting competition-sized golf bags as
Laguna Canyon-based Victoria Skimboards. A well-
a small pre-adolescent boy. “Like that scene from Caddy
known figure in the South County beach break, Kraft
Shack when the little kid tries to lift the massive golf bag
appeared in Skimboarder Magazine and was a fierce
belonging Al Czervik (played by Rodney Dangerfield),” he
Paul Kraft, Managing Partner at Unstoppable Automotive Group 22
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | December 2021
chuckles with a twinkle in his eye. “That was me. And it doesn’t seem like that long ago!” Growing up in a home adjacent to the 18th fairway at El Niguel did not hurt either. His parents were members there. He was also
dealership in the nation for 25 consecutive years. Blumenthal then
a regular on the links at Mission Viejo Country Club—where he
went on to acquire Mercedes-Benz of Temecula in 2019. Recognizing
would eventually become Club Champion in 1994 after honing his
Kraft’s exceptional sales and leadership skills, Blumenthal brought
skills golfing competitively for Dana Hills, Saddleback College, and
him in as general sales manager of Mercedes-Benz of Temecula.
Pepperdine University.
This partnership formed the foundation of what would eventually
After earning his degree in business/corporate communications at Pepperdine, Kraft immediately dove into the automotive business and quickly advanced into sales leadership.
become the Unstoppable Automotive Group and the 2021 acquisition of Audi Mission Viejo and Volvo Cars Mission Viejo. Today, as managing partner of Audi/Volvo of Mission Viejo, Paul
It was at Fletcher Jones Motorcars in Newport Beach, in June
Kraft is back home, living in Laguna, overseeing both dealerships,
2001, when he went to work under the wing of his mentor, and indus-
and making a big impact on our local community. The Unstoppable
try icon, Garth Blumenthal.
Automotive Group owns Mercedes-Benz of Temecula as well—
In 1991, Blumenthal was the youngest GM in Mercedes-Benz history, and he led Fletcher Jones to become the #1 Mercedes-Benz
which is among the fastest-growing Mercedes-Benz dealerships in the country.
CONTINUED >
Volvo Cars Mission Viejo
Audi Mission Viejo Sales Team CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel
23
UNSTOPPABLE! (CONTINUED)
Audi SQ5 Photo: Audi USA
“When it comes to comfort, style, and dynamics, the Audi Q5 is the benchmark... It’s a powerful driving experience.” According to Kraft, the Unstoppable Automotive Group is just getting
“Given that it’s the Holiday Season if you could pick one vehi-
started. The team is determined to build upon the experience, success,
cle off this lot to put under the tree for someone special, which
and innovative processes that Blumenthal and Kraft have developed over
would it be?”
their many years together. Of course, at the top of their priority list is client
“I’d have to say the new Audi Q5,” he replied. “When it comes
services. The entire team is fanatical about the guest experience—and it
to comfort, style, and dynamics, the Q5 is the benchmark. It’s
shows in their large, and extremely loyal, return customer base.
driver-centric, high-tech, and stylish--with standard with All
Unstoppable also recognizes the importance of community. As title sponsor of Providence Mission Hospital Foundation’s Annual Golf Classic at Pelican Hill, Audi Mission Viejo and Volvo Cars Mission Viejo generously support the Judi and Bill Leonard Institute for Cancer Prevention, Treatment, and Wellness. When we stopped into Audi Mission Viejo to visit with Paul, we had to ask: 24
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | December 2021
Wheel Drive. It’s a powerful driving experience.” After hearing that, I had to take a test drive and see for myself... Could not agree more. Audi Mission Viejo and Volvo Cars Mission Viejo are both located on Margarite Parkway, just off the Avery exit. To learn more, visit UnstoppableGroup.com or call (949) 218-5090.
Paul Kraft, Managing Partner at Unstoppable Automotive Group
CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel
25
ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2022-2023 SCHOOL YEAR
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Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | December 2021
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H O L I D A Y
OPEN HOUSE
CAPISTR ANO LIGHTS RETURNS ANNUAL HOLIDAY TRADITIONS AT HISTORIC MISSION SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO RESUME WITH CAPISTRANO LIGHTS RETURNS ON SELECT EVENINGS FROM DECEMBER 4 THROUGH DECEMBER 30. An enchanting holiday experience, the California Landmark grounds are transformed with festive lights, community-designed Christmas trees, a large-scale nativity scene, Dickens-era carolers, and nightly 30-foot tree lighting and music. Capistrano Lights Returns tickets include all-day admission, audio tour, and holiday programming in a scenic and historic setting. Nightly holiday activities begin at 4:00 p.m. and specific event dates and details are available at CapistranoLights.com
28
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | December 2021
01
CAPISTRANO LIGHTS RETURNS IS AN EXTRAORDINARY AND ENCHANTING HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE FOR VISITORS OF ALL AGES.
02
01
ARTICLE BARBARA KIMLER
Capistrano Lights Returns is a quality outdoor holiday experience for the entire community. Experience Mission San Juan in lights and celebrate the season in historic San Juan. Since tickets include all-day admission, tour the Mission by day, enjoy one of San Juan Capistrano’s popular dining destinations, then return for the nightly holiday events.
PHOTOGRAPHY MISSION SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO 02
The nightly Christmas tree lighting (select weekend evenings) is the highlight of Capistrano Lights Returns. At 5:00 p.m., attendees gather around the 30-foot Christmas tree to experience its brilliant lights and sing-a-long to the festive holiday music. CONTINUED > CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel
29
OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)
03
05
T R A D I T I O N S
04
04
03
30
Special offerings during Capistrano Lights include the opportunity to light prayer candles to remember loved ones. For the first time, Serra Chapel will be open during evening holiday hours for prayer and reflection during this sacred season.
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | December 2021
05
Dickens-era carolers are a popular attraction to the Mission’s holiday festivities. Other children’s activities include Selfies with Santa (courtesy of Farmers & Merchants Bank) and crafts and vendors on select dates. A beautifully lit large-scale wreath is perfect for family photos.
A large-scale nativity scene is featured in the Ruins of The Great Stone Church throughout December. As Orange County’s very first Christmas was most likely celebrated here, Mission San Juan takes great pride in delivering a meaningful tradition for those looking to experience the religious, spiritual, and emotional value of the season with loved ones.
Reopen January 2 2022
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31
GIVING BACK
Gratefully
ARTICLE ALLISON GIBESON PHOTOGRAPHY JANIE JONES
GIVING AWAY AFTER A SUCCESSFUL CAMPAIGN LAST YEAR, LIFESTYLE PUBLICATIONS IS GIVING $300,000 TO RECIPIENTS IN NEED THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON AND BEYOND... AND WE NEED YOUR HELP!
ABOUT SIX YEARS AGO ANNA SAROL, THE DAUGHTER OF A SINGLE MOTHER, WAS PARALYZED IN A GYMNASTICS ACCIDENT WHEN SHE WAS A FRESHMAN IN HIGH SCHOOL, BUT UNTIL LAST YEAR SHE DID NOT HAVE A STAIRLIFT IN HER HOME. The stairlift was made possible when Lifestyle Publications gave her family $10,000. “I watched my community come together to help me get this equipment to my house, and words can’t explain how appreciative my
“I watched my community come together to help me get this equipment to my house, and words can’t explain how appreciative my family and I are.” —Anna Sarol
family and I are,” Anna says. The money for Anna’s stairlift was part of a giveaway campaign from the company during the 2020 Christmas season that benefited more than 80 recipients across the country with a final distribution of $250,000 throughout the year. When the company opened nominations, they were flooded with submissions. Community leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you nominated people that were in need of assistance. As the eyes and ears of the community, these readers were able to help identify people who might have
Anna Sarol
otherwise gone unnoticed or unrecognized. One such nominee was Kathy*, an aunt who is raising her three young relatives. The children came from an abusive situation, and Kathy, a single guardian, works tirelessly to provide for them. Nevertheless, the family was already living in poverty despite her working seven days a week when Kathy lost her job during the pandemic. She resorted to selling tamales to help pay the rent. When a case manager with a Big Brothers Big Sisters foster youth mentoring program heard about Lifestyle’s campaign and call for nominations, she quickly thought of Kathy. “When I shared the news that Kathy was selected and would be receiving $3,000, she cried, screamed, and was in disbelief,” the case manager said. “She immediately wanted to give back to me and the donor by providing endless tamales. This funding allowed the children to have a small Christmas tree for the first time ever. Kathy was able to pay her rent and utilities for three months, and the children were able to experience a holiday season in peace without financial stressors.” In yet another case, Emily* who worked as a janitor at a school, was a recipient and was struggling to afford simply buying groceries for her children. Before the ongoing difficulties of the pandemic even started, a tornado destroyed the school she worked at just a couple weeks before the initial shutdown in March 2020 which resulted in a loss of income for her. Emily was incredibly surprised and grateful to receive assistance from the giveaway. *Names changed for privacy
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Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | December 2021
WE NEED YOUR HELP TO GIVE AWAY $3OO,OOO This year the company will have nominations for the giveaway open from December 1-15, 2021. To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. The leaders of Lifestyle Publications believe God has blessed them with their company’s continued success, so they in turn wish to be a blessing and encouragement to others as they increase the amount of this year’s giveaway to those in need to $300,000 for the year.
Nominate HERE! Follow @citylifestyle on Instagram
CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel
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10-19
DECEMBER
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE'S THE NUTCRACKER
Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
Introducing
“This Nutcracker is cracking good!”
raved the New York Post when American Ballet Theatre premiered this delectable
holiday favorite. As the lights dim and Tchaikovsky’s beautiful score fills the air, young Clara enters a dreamlike journey
amid magical toy soldiers, mischievous mice, sparkling snowflakes and a glittering Christmas tree! scfta.org
11
LAGUNA NIGUEL HOLIDAY PARADE Crown Valley Pkwy between Nueva Vista
and Community Park, Laguna Niguel
Experience the unique sights and sounds of the annual Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade. View more than 100
Dr. Jessica Kim Board Certified Dermatologist
exciting entries including marching bands, floats, youth groups, equestrian units, exotic cars, military members, and Santa! Parade watchers are encouraged to bring chairs and take advantage
MEDICAL | SURGICAL | COSMETIC | VARICOSE VEINS
of the free shuttle, available from the Federal Building parking lot off Dorine/ El Lazo. cityoflagunaniguel.org
15 OPEN AIR HOLIDAY MARKET AT INN AT THE MISSION SJC Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano Autograph Collection Hotel
The Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection is excited to host its first annual open-air holiday market featuring small local businesses and craft artisans. The event will run from 4-6
26732 Crown Valley Parkway, Suite 571, Mission Viejo
pm and will feature live entertainment,
(949) 200-7008
Claus, and local businesses. For more
www.GoldenCoastDermatology.com 34
Laguna Niguel Lifestyle | December 2021
food & beverage from Ysidora, Santa information, call (949) 503-5720 or visit innatthemissionsjc.com
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
L I F E S T Y L E R E A L E S TAT E
(714) 883-2943 mgerard@gerardteam.com gerardteam.com Mike Gerard, Broker Associate | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties 2 Ritz Carlton Dr. Monarch Beach, CA 92629 If your property is currently listed with a Broker, this is not intended as a solicitation. Equal Housing Opportunity. DRE# 01034441