F E B R UA RY 2 022 | TH E LO C A L LOV E I S S U E
local love
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2 Ritz Carlton Drive | Monarch Beach, CA 92629 | (714) 883-2943 © 2022 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHHS and the BHHS symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for your listing. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Beata Cuffee Manager/Owner
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LIFESTYLE LETTER
February: Local Love!
February 2022 PUBLISHER
Michael Gerard | michael.gerard@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR
Barbara Kimler
Our February issue is dedicated to love in all its forms. And, in the spirit of love, we selected the beautiful cover image on this month’s issue. Ocean Stars, a Charles Pabst oil painting, speaks to the romance of living where we do and is a tribute to the beauty and allure of our local coastline at night. With Valentine's Day fast approaching, we've highlighted a few local makers in our area you may like to meet. We hope you are inspired to pursue an artistic or creative endeavor of your own. After all, February is the month of love. With our hectic schedules, it is easy to let our hobbies, talents, and creative special interests fall by the wayside. Valentine's Day is also a boom for the chocolate industry... and who does not love chocolate? I know I do! And, if you're like me, you'll love reading about the history of chocolate in local novelist Connie Spenuzza's new book entitled Chocolate Runs Through My Veins. Check it out on page 18. So, while you fill your home with chocolates, flowers, and valentines (and perhaps college basketball) this month. Remember to give yourself some time to do what you love and be with those you love. Find what makes you feel alive, and don’t forget to share it with us. And while you are at it, don’t forget to shop local and support our local businesses.
STAFF PHOTOGR APHER
Karen Reuter AD DESIGNER
Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER
Dani Moore CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S
Mike Gerard, Barbara Kimler CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER
Karen Reuter
Corporate Team MICHAEL GER ARD, PUBLISHER @LAGUNANIGUELLIFEST YLE
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich CHIEF DIGITAL OFFICER Bruce Ianni DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
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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 area’s 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
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2
inside the issue The Local Love Issue
28
14
18
24
F E ATU R E D
D E PA RTM E NTS
14 Meet the Makers
4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Business Monthly
12
Local Experiences
14
Local Limelight
18
Inspired By
24
Artist’s Palette
28
Open House
32
Financial Buzz
34
Events
Valentines Day Gift Ideas from from Local Artisians
18 Chocolate Runs Through My Veins An Insightful History of Women and Chocolate
24 Giulianna in Pink
A Personal Tribute to the Joy of Fatherhood
28 Oceanfront Showcase 33 Monarch Bay Drive
O N T H E C OV E R
Photography: Provided by The Signature Gallery, Laguna Beach “Ocean Stars” by Charles Pabst | 24x24 | Oil | TheSignatureGallery.com
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A RTS + C U LT U R E
EDU CAT I O N A RTS + C U LT U R E
R EA L ESTAT E FI NA NC E + LEGA L SE RV IC E S
Get surprisingly great home and auto rates. Here’s the deal, our Home and Auto rates are already great. But when you combine with State Farm you can save even more. Call me to discover your surprisingly great rates on Home and Auto today. Individual premiums will vary by customer. All applicants subject to State Farm underwriting.
Dan Rickabus, Agent 30131 Town Center Dr Ste 275 Bus: 949-363-7100 | dan@danrickabus.com Insurance Lic#: OH57751 Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 State Farm, Bloomington, IL FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AG UN A N I G UE L
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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2
business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses. CHOC Orange Becomes OC's First Level I Pediatric Trauma Center
CHOC Hospital in Orange has been verified by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) as a Level I pediatric trauma center, the only one in Orange County and the fourth in Southern California. Level I verification is the highest possible ranking for trauma centers and recognizes CHOC’s commitment to providing the best possible care for all injured children, as well as serving as a trusted pediatric resource for the community. CHOC.org
Scan to read more. Photography by CHOC Children’s
Laguna Niguel Rotary Club is Accepting New Members
Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. For more than 110 years, Rotary's people of action have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects. To learn how you can get involved in the Laguna Niguel Rotary Club, visit LagunaNiguelRotaryClub.org
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Military Support Committee Receives Generous Donation from LN Rotary Club
Laguna Niguel's Military Support Committee received a $2,500 donation from the Laguna Niguel Rotary Club to support the Committee’s efforts over the holiday season and in the new year. The Military Support Committee proudly sustains an adoptive relationship with three military units and their families, and hosts various activities and fundraisers throughout the year to provide support to the City’s three adopted military units and their families. To learn more, visit: LNMilitarySupportFoundation.org
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If you want to be included, send us a message! Visit CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel to get in touch.
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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
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. Each year, Laguna Niguel Rotary donates a new dictionary to every 3rd Grade student in Laguna Niguel
Want to make a difference?... Join Us Today! LagunaNiguelRotaryClub.org FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AG UN A N I G UE L
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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2
business monthly Introducing
A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.
Photography by City of Laguna Niguel
Dr. Jessica Kim Board Certified Dermatologist
MEDICAL | SURGICAL | COSMETIC | VARICOSE VEINS
Laguna Niguel City Council Selects Elaine Gennawey as Mayor The Laguna Niguel City Council has unanimously selected Elaine Gennawey to serve as the City’s next Mayor and Sandy Rains as Mayor Pro Tem. Mayor-Elect Gennawey was first elected to the City Council in 2014 and previously served as the Mayor of Laguna Niguel in 2018, when she was re-elected to a second term to the City Council. She most recently served as Mayor Pro Tem in 2020. CityofLagunaNiguel.org
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If you want to be included, send us a message!
26732 Crown Valley Parkway, Suite 571, Mission Viejo
(949) 200-7008 www.GoldenCoastDermatology.com 10
B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
Visit CityLifestyle.com/LagunaNiguel to get in touch.
Photography by Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection
Valentine's Day Romance at Ysidora
If you're looking for a truly authentic and romantic Valentine's Day dining experience, look for further than Ysidora at the Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, Autograph Collection. Ysidora pays homage to the Mission's matriarch Ysidora Forster, and invites guests to relax, unwind and indulge in authentic Spanish flavors in a contemporary setting. Enjoy wood-fired grilled seafood, hot and cold tapas, local meats, and seasonal, locally sourced produce. innatthemissionsjc.com
“ L AG U N A S A N D S”, 3 0X4 0 ”, O I L
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Photography by City of Laguna Niguel
Laguna Niguel Offers Junior Civic Workshops The City of Laguna Niguel welcomes all 6th, 7th, and 8th graders to attend monthly Jr. Civic Workshops on the second Tuesday of each month and learn about their local government while earning community service hours. On January 11th, Police Services gave a presentation on cyberbullying and homealone safety. These workshops are held from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm in the City Hall Community Room. cityoflagunaniguel.org
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“ROMANTIC NIGHT”, 24X36”, OIL
CARA MORAN
“Make Your Life Beautiful” 220 Forest Ave, Laguna Beach, CA 92651 949-376-4244 thesignaturegallery.com
L AG U N A B E AC H - S COT TS DA L E - S A N TA F E FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AG UN A N I G UE L
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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2
local experiences Locals recommending the best places and things to do in the city.
Celebrate the ones you love this Valentine's Day by treating them to a night out at one of your favorite restaurants or experience something new and find a hidden gem around town. Whatever you are looking for, we have you covered.
Romantic Date Ideas FIR ST THUR SDAYS AR T WALK: On the first Thursday of each month,
the art galleries of Laguna Beach open their doors for a night to celebrate the local art scene. Galleries throughout Laguna Beach, CA DANA POINT HAR BOR : Stroll Dana Point Harbor and discover boutiques and shops filled with unique art, clothing, gifts, jewelry, and harbor treasures. Harbor Dr Dana Point, CA SEGER STR OM CENTER FOR THE AR TS: Always a romantic experience, a great date idea is to enjoy the performance of theater artists at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. 600 Town Center Drive Costa Mesa, CA DANA WHAR F SPOR TFISHING & WHALE WATCHING: Take your Valentine on a romantic whale watching excursion with Dana Wharf and enjoy a fantastic sunset and glass of champagne. 34675 Golden Lantern Dana Point, CA THE SPA AT THE MISSION: Treat yourself to a regenerative couple's spa day at the Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano. 31692 El Camino Real San Juan Capistrano, CA
Scan for more photos and the full list. First Thursdays Art Walk
Want to recommend a local experience? Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.
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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AG UN A N I G UE L
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MEET
designers THE edition MAKERS ARTICLE BY MIKE GERARD
This Valentines Day celebrate the arts and your loved ones by gifting them unique creations by local artists.
kathleen doonan largent CUSTOM JEWELRY DESIGNER
Kathleen Doonan Largent is the designer and creator of San Clemente-based KD LUXE Jewelry and Accessories. Born to create and inspired by her travels, Kathleen’s work has adorned Hollywood stars and athletes worldwide and is admired as the fashion statement of the millennium. Crafted with pearls, precious and semi-precious stones, silver, and mixed metals, Kathleen’s pieces are designed to complement the body inside and out. Perfect for ‘now’.
TOP-LEFT: Rose Quartz Triple Drop Earrings. TOP-RIGHT: Blue Topaz Earring. BOTTOM: FDM Men’s Stainless ID Bracelet.
SHOP KATHLEEN’S WORK: KDLUXEJEWELRY.COM
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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | A RTS + CULTURE
alicia dakteris
jasmine clouser
Alicia Dakteris’ creations were born out of the need to have a practical hand-
Jasmine Clouser has been awarded the two most prestigious awards in the
bag solution for international travels as well as something nice for stepping
wedding industry including Best of The Knot from 2011-2020, The Knot Hall of
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the best ingredients combined with meticulous design details, Jasmine will
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create the most delicious cake or cupcakes for your wedding, birthday party,
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TOP-LEFT: “The Christina” with two-color-sided “cracked” leather. TOP-RIGHT: “The Newporter” and “The A” clutch. BOTTOM: “Passport” crossbody, handmade in the USA with genuine Italian leather.
TOP-LEFT: Birthday Par-Tea Cake. TOP-RIGHT: Lemon Theme Bridal Shower Cake. BOTTOM: Perfect Engagement Party Cake.
SHOP ALICIA’S WORK: ALICIADAKTERIS.COM
SHOP JASMINE’S WORK: COUTURECAKERY.NET FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AG UN A N I G UE L
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St. Anne School
An Independent Catholic School in Laguna Niguel
www.st-anne.org | @stanneknights 32451 Bear Brand Road, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 | Phone: 949-371-9932
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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AG UN A N I G UE L
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C H O C O L AT E RUNS THROUGH
MY VIENS
LOCAL NOVELIST CONNIE SPENUZZA PENS INSIGHTFUL HISTORY OF WOMEN AND CHOCOLATE
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I NSP IR E D BY | ED U CATION
ARTICLE BY BARBARA KIMLER
Women and chocolate just seem to go together. That might explain why studies show women have a stronger craving for chocolate than men and a different chemical reaction in the brain upon its consumption. But beyond this traditional Valentine’s Day offering, there is a rich international history of the worlds of women and cocoa. Chocolate Runs Through My Veins is a riveting historical investigation by Dana Point author Connie Spenuzza that outlines the revelatory feminist history covering the agriculture, preparation, and worldwide trade of chocolate. An international award-winning author of historical fiction novels and children’s bilingual fables, Spenuzza’s Chocolate Runs Through My Veins is a factual collection of intriguing stories sharing how cocoa came to dominate the global trade and cultures, all with the help of women. The first-known portrayal of chocolate in art - a woman serving a chocolate drink in a Mayan vase, dated to 750 CE is the starting point that takes the reader through to the contemporary boxes of chocolate - an idea conceived by a woman and popularized by Valentine’s Day. CONTINUED >
Mural of the cacao women vendors in ancient "Mesoamerica" by Diego Rivera
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Driven by subjects rather than chronology, the book conveys the scope of chocolate’s thousand-year influence highlighting examples of women throughout history preparing, serving, or otherwise using chocolate. Each topical chapter covers information related to cocoa’s rise in prominence including slavery, Spain’s colonization of South America, and modern marketing campaigns geared toward women. Highlighting relationships between prominent figures in the story of chocolate, it also examines how chocolate influences women’s social roles. Spenuzza injects personal stories on occasion and references her upbringing in an Ecuadorian convent and travels in adulthood. Images of historical figures, illustrations of the stages of cocoa production, and depictions of Indigenous South Americans add visual angles. Connie was born in Ecuador and raised in California and France. She received her graduate degree from the University of Southern California, speaks four languages, and has traveled to 127 countries. All proceeds from the sale of her books benefit the fight against human trafficking. In keeping with the Valentine’s Day association with chocolate, the book launch is set for February 14, 2022, and will be available on Amazon.com or any major online bookseller. For more information, visit conniespenuzza.com
Engraving by: Maria Sibylla Merian (Born 1647 Frankfurt – Died 1717 Amsterdam), Naturalist Illustrator, Published Metamorphosis insectorum Surinamensium in 1705
Connie Spenuzza
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“UNDER THE SWELTRY CANOPY OF THE MOST FRAGRANT GOLDEN SEEDS OF CACAO, I TASTED THE PLEASURE–– AND UNDERSTOOD THE TRAGIC AND FORTUNATE PARADOX THAT HAS A L W AY S B E E N C H O C O L A T E .” I NSP IR E D BY | ED U CATION
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A revitalizing beard shaping and facial massage. We’ll revive your beard with a rich oil massage, reconstruct its shape with crisp razor lines, and make your skin say “ahhh”. This exfoliating cleanse uses a charcoal mask to draw out impurities and ends with a hydrating lavender facial massage.
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A rejuvenating skin treatment and shave. An epic combination of cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration is delivered with warm foam and a straight razor for your face or head. Our charcoal mask, facial massage, and essential oil-infused towels will put you in a trance.
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Our most classy and stylish haircut. This service is ideal for your regular maintenance cut and includes a shampoo, conditioning scalp massage, and a lavender-infused hot towel for your face.
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Invoke the nostalgia of the good ol’ days. This experience incorporates warm foam, straight razor shave, hot and cold essential oil-infused towels, and a cooling massage to make you look as smooth as you feel.
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Show your mug some extra love. Pamper your Abe Lincoln with reshaping, straight razor outlines, lavender oil-infused hot towels, beard conditioning, and styling.
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THIS IS A PLACE OF ROMANCE
For more than a century, artists searching California for beauty and history have been attracted to Mission San Juan Capistrano's graceful arches, bubbling fountains and exotic gardens. Our hotel celebrates this rich history and artistry with a tapestry of visuals to serve as the backdrop for your dream wedding. Paintings, artifacts and photographs blend with curated service and attention to detail. Here at our inspired Southern California wedding venue, you'll discover a deeper meaning of union, tradition and connection. Hear the carillon bells sing your story through the olive grove and courtyards and commemorate your day with an olive branch of your own. 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 FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/L AG UN A N I G UE L
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“Giulianna in Pink” Bronze by Paige Bradley, 23 x 11.5 x 8 in
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A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CULTURE
Giulianna in Pink A PERSONAL TRIBUTE TO THE JOY OF FATHERHOOD Paige Bradley and Giulianna
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKE GERARD
When we think of Valentine’s Day, our thoughts often turn to the celebration of romantic love. But there are so many other forms of love to appreciate: the love of food, the love of art, and even for some, the love of work! But for me, 15 years ago, I got hit right between the eyes by an affection so powerful and immense, I could never have imagined it possible. That’s the love between a father and his child. My daughter, Giulianna, an only child, is the shining star of my life. And, like most parents, I would give anything to make her life better than mine. But the big takeaway for me is that she has brought so much more to my life than I could ever give to hers. Watching her blossom into the beautiful and intelligent young lady she has become is a blessing beyond blessings. CONTINUED >
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“I met Giulianna only minutes before creating this quick study. She is on the edge of childhood crossing into teenage years. Her excitement and personality are electric. She wears pink with Lululemon shorts - this is really a piece of our era - she has an attitude that she can join into whatever is happening and no girl dress will inhibit her. But with flair, she enters; unafraid and uninhibited.” — Paige Bradley
Some say the hardest thing to learn about parenting is how to let go… realizing the little baby you’ve been nurturing all these years really is a separate human being with a mind and will all her own! One day soon she’ll be standing on her own adult feet, making her own grownup life decisions. This realization hit me hard one morning while dropping her off at middle school. Giulianna jumped out of the car and actually forgot to kiss me goodbye! I should have seen it coming. The signs of her growing independence were actually pretty obvious. She blew right past the toddler stage and into her tweens, and she took on interests of her own that were foreign to me. Unlike me, Giulianna loves to dance. She started ballet classes as a 2-year-old and progressed into stage performances and competitive dance into her teen years. She was all in. I will always cherish the memories of watching Giulianna perform each year in South Coast Conservatory’s production of The Nutcracker. I sat devotedly through no less than five performances every Christmas season... changing seats for each show to get a different perspective. Starting as a baby
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A RT IST ’S PA LE T T E | ARTS + CULTURE
snowflake, Giulianna worked her way up the cast list. She was a lamb, an angel, a butterfly, a mouse, and a party girl. She never did win the starring role of Clara, but it was a magical growth experience for both of us nonetheless, and I would not change one single Tchaikovsky minute. As Giulianna got closer to high school, her passion for ballet gave way to more commercial genres like jazz, musical theater, and, of course, hip hop. While I’ve always loved to watch her perform in any discipline, to me, there was nothing more beautiful or moving than The Nutcracker ballet. So, when the opportunity came up for Giulianna to pose for the internationally renowned sculptor, Paige Bradley at The Signature Gallery, it was a dream come true for both of us. Giulianna was thrilled to be the center of attention (even while holding that pose for hours). For me, it was the chance to capture the essence of her beautiful angelic soul, cast in bronze, to cherish forever. And cherish it I will. You can see Giulianna in Pink and other amazing Paige Bradley sculptures at The Signature Gallery on Forest Avenue in Laguna Beach. TheSignatureGallery.com
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Oceanfront Showcase 33 MONARCH BAY DRIVE IS OFFERED AT $20,995,000
ARTICLE BY MIKE GERARD PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY THE STANALAND GROUP
This month’s featured home is a stunning oceanfront, angled on an elevated promontory capturing miles of uninterrupted coastline and cerulean blue ocean as far as the eye can see. Built in 2003, the spacious 10,900 square foot contemporary home unfolds with an impressive entry, wide gallery halls, volume ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glass, wonderful natural light, and warm ocean breezes. The breathtaking ocean views extend past broad limestone terraces while a secluded central courtyard is perfect for entertaining with an outdoor fireplace, cook center, and spa. Five en suite bedrooms include well-designed guest quarters, a chef-grade kitchen with Butler’s pantry and caterer’s entry, dramatic living room with wrap-around views, two elevators, wine cellar, and oversized motor court leading to three-car garage. Monarch Bay is a guard-gated community, tennis, private Beach Club on the sand, and rests in close proximity to Monarch Links Golf,
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O PE N H OU SE | R EAL ESTATE
Monarch Bay Resort, Ritz Carlton, and Montage Resorts. Considered the premier oceanfront location in Monarch Bay, this fine residence offers unmatched space, design, and coastal views above the crashing surf. • 5 beds and 6 baths • 10,900 sq ft • 18,400 sq ft lot • Listing Agent: John Stanaland, The Stanaland Group, Villa • Real Estate, 949.689.9047, JohnStanaland.com
ABOUT MONARCH BAY Monarch Bay is a beautiful oceanfront community of over 200 custom-designed and built homes surrounding a private water-front club and
uncrowded beach. The gate guarded entrance leads to gracefully curved streets, mature landscaping, and single-family homes sited to take maximum benefit of the views. Originally developed on leased land, Monarch Bay today is a community with all homes on fee simple lots. Monarch Bay sits beside a beautiful beach with miles of walking along the surf’s edge. Homeowners enjoy free memberships in the newly remodeled private beach club where food and drink are served in the dining room and al fresco on the ocean deck and lawn. Beach attendants set up complimentary towel, beach chair, and umbrella service on the sand for members. Club activities include holiday functions, residents’ cocktail parties, and outdoor summer movies. CONTINUED >
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creative planning for your future ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Scan the code to see the full article at CityLifestyle.com
Creative Planning believes there’s a richer way to wealth. Their team of CFP professionals, CPAs and attorneys work together to create clear customized plans to maximize your wealth, all in one place. Their award-winning in-house services span a variety of financial d isciplines, i ncluding c omprehensive wealth and investment management, insurance, tax prep, trusts, estate, financial and retirement planning. Founded in Overland Park, they have since branched out across the globe, gaining a national reputation that has earned them numerous prestigious awards, including #1 wealth management firm i n America by Barron’s, CNBC and Forbes. President and CEO Peter Mallouk shares his wealth of knowledge with approachable financial advice. Two issues coming together at once inspired the creation of Mallouk’s business. “My dad was a physician frustrated with his financial advisor who sold him products and didn’t really explain things well, and I was an estate attorney that saw a full view of the advisory world and thought there was a better way to deliver the all around experience. Ultimately, that led to Creative Planning offering investments and planning as well as legal and tax advice in a very approachable, consultative way.” Mallouk has written several books, including 5 Mistakes Every Investor Makes and How to Avoid Them, and has cowritten Unshakeable: Your Financial Freedom Playbook and The Path: Accelerating Your Journey to Financial Freedom with Tony Robbins. When looking for a financial advisor, find the right one by asking the right questions.
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“Most don’t realize that the vast majority of financial advisors don’t have to act in the client’s best interests. A minority of financial advisors are fiduciaries and operate under laws that share similarities with doctors and lawyers, meaning they do have to act in their client’s best interests. First, ask your advisor if they are registered as a broker or are dually registered. If they say yes to either, that means that part or all of the time, they don’t have to act in your best interests. There are thousands of advisors that will act in your best interest, so take the time to find one. Second, ask your advisor if their parent company, or the ownership of their parent company, own investment vehicles. If the answer is yes, don’t be surprised if some of those investment vehicles find their way into your portfolio. Essentially you may find yourself paying an advisor to then put you in a fund where the company collects another fee. There is no need to accept this conflict. Find a fiduciary that is not dually registered and that does not own their own investment products. At that point, you at least have someone that is incented to act on your behalf all the time. From there, look for education, credentials and experience with people like you.” As for the future, it’s never looked brighter at Creative Planning. “It’s an exciting time—we can do more for our clients today than at any point in our history. In many ways, it feels like we are just at the starting line.” For more information, visit CreativePlanning.com.
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Reopen January 2 2022
Open 7 Days a Week | Make reservations for Valentine's Day!
President Day: February 17th 3 course special $38.95 per person Happy Hour: Sunday - Thursday 3:00 pm-5:00 pm Business Hours Lunch 11:30 am-3:00 pm Dinner 3:00 pm-9:00 pm Brunch 11:30 am-2:30 pm
34471 Golden Lantern Dana Point | (949) 234-0063 | GemmellRestaurant.com
Our infrared saunas combine the centuries-old practice of sauna with the modern science of infrared technology and red light therapy to transform your health and wellness.
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DANA POINT | LAGUNA NIGUEL @PERSPIREDANAPOINT | @PERSPIRELAGUNANIGUEL *offer valid for new guests only. Available in studio. Offer expires 2/28/2022
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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2
events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in the city.
F E BRUA RY 4TH - 20TH
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F E B R UA RY 1 2 T H
Blithe Spirit by Noel Coward coming to Camino Real Playhouse
CA MIN O R EAL PLAY HOUS E, SA N J UA N CA P I ST R A NO This smash comedy hit offers up laughs as a spiritualist medium holds a séance for a writer suffering from writer’s block but accidentally summons the spirit of his deceased first wife, which leads to an increasingly complex love triangle with his current wife of five years. February 5th production includes a post-show Q&A with the cast. For tickets, visit caminorealplayhouse.org
WICKED Returns to Segerstrom Center for the Arts
SEG ER STR OM CEN TER FOR THE A RTS , C O STA ME SA Back by popular demand to Segerstrom Center for the Arts . Variety calls WICKED "a cultural phenomenon,” and it continues to break box office records across North America. Winner of over 100 international awards, including a Grammy and three Tony Awards, WICKED is “Broadway’s biggest blockbuster” (The New York Times). scfta.org
Annual San Juan Capistrano Rotary Car Show
CA MIN O DEL AVION S PORTS PA R K, SA N J UA N CA P I ST R A NO Considered one of the best classic car events in Southern California, the San Juan Capistrano Rotary Car Show draws nearly 500 exotic and classic show cars and more than one thousand automotive enthusiasts. This car show is a major fundraising event that enables our SJC Rotary Club to help local charities thrive. sjcrotary.org/car-show
F E B R UA RY 1 4 T H
Valentine's Day Movie Matinee
S EA COUN TRY S EN IOR AN D C O MMUNI T Y C E NT E R , L AG UNA NI G UE L | 1 :30 P M Grab your sweetheart and spend the afternoon with a romantic film and flirty treats. We will be showing the 1942 classic film, Casablanca on Monday, February 14th from 1:30 pm-3:30 pm. The movie starts at 1:45 pm. To register, please call Sea Country Senior and Community Center at (949) 425-5151. cityoflagunaniguel.org
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EVE N TS
Mozart’s Magic Flute
SEA COUN TRY S EN IOR & COMMUNI T Y C E NT E R , L AG UNA NI G UE L Join Lyric Opera OC’s mystifying performance of Mozart’s Magic Flute! Saturday Evening is Adults Only (alcohol Included) and Sunday afternoon is a Family Friendly Event (ages 5+) with all activities included in the ticket price. The opera will be sung in German with English dialogue subtitles and narration for the children’s performance. lyricoperaoc.org
20th Annual Laguna Beach Music Festival
LAG UN A PLAYHOUS E, 606 LAG UNA CA NYO N R D, L AG UNA B E AC H Featuring four-time Grammy-winning mandolinist, singer, and songwriter Chris Thile as artistic director, the Laguna Beach Music Festival is a co-presentation of Laguna Beach Live! and the Philharmonic Society of Orange County, the Laguna Beach Music Festival is a multi-day series of classical and contemporary concerts, community outreach programs, and dynamic special events. philharmonicsociety.org
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28451 Marguerite Pkwy, Mission Viejo, CA
28730 Marguerite Pkwy, Mission Viejo, CA