Renaissance Home Furnishings… Movin’ on up for “Furniture Row”
By Shelley T. Hudson

Renaissance Home Furnishings in San Juan Capistrano has just enjoyed a renaissance of its own. This long time local favorite has moved on up the 5 Freeway to “Furniture Row” in Laguna Hills, bringing an even greater number of South OC families its signature brand of fantastic furniture at competitive prices with bend-over-backwards customer service.

After a Caltrans project was approved to install a sound wall between the already hidden gem and its main source of exposure—the busy 5 Freeway—owner Dennis Penman decided it was time to pack up his sofas, cabinets and rugs and head to greener pastures. The showroom’s new location in Laguna Hills promises to deliver customers increased accessibility and a more pleasurable shopping experience. Penman and his team of designers are excited about the transition and relish the opportunity to introduce themselves and their vast array of products to an even larger slice of Orange County.

Despite his enthusiasm about this exciting undertaking, Penman’s optimistic forecast for Renaissance Home Furnishings is a tad bittersweet. His almost 14 years in San Juan Capistrano have earned him lifelong friends and fiercely loyal clients. In fact, when news of the Caltrans project first broke, he searched without success in San Juan and San Clemente for a suitable commercial space for his relocation. “I’m thrilled with our new location and that it’s only a few miles away. My goal was to stay local to continue to service the customers who have helped build this business,” Penman shares.

Dennis hopes to maintain these relationships as well as to develop even more with families in the ten additional communities by which he’s now surrounded. The new Avenida de la Carlota location positions Renaissance among other furniture retailers in what has become known as a destination point for home shoppers from all over the county. “We’re just eight minutes and two turns up the freeway,” he says, “and everything about the new store is more convenient.”

Although the environment has changed, the same friendly and talented staff Renaissance’s patrons have come to rely on are along for the ride. Complimentary in-home design consultations will continue to provide discerning clients with a professional opinion and a style direction. Penman asserts, “We help our customers complete their homes. Our designers can fill an empty room from rug to chandelier or help update a dated décor. We get involved in customers’ profiles so we can learn how they want their homes to function and make the best use of their space.”

Dennis Penman attributes Renaissance’s longevity to his fundamental business philosophy—”High volume equals big discounts from our vendors and we pass that savings along to our customers,” he says. The variety of merchandise, both ready-made and custom, make it easy for clients to add to, update or re-do. Penman emphasizes that all of his upholstered furniture is made in the U.S.A. and the average lead time is only two to five weeks. Customers can also select from hundreds of chairs, sofas, tables, cabinets, art, lamps, mirrors, rugs and accessories right off the showroom floor. Renaissance’s typical customer comes in to browse at sofas and leaves with inspiration for their entire home.

Penman’s dedicated clientele sing praises on Yelp and demonstrate their support year after year through repeat business. “The whole staff is just so helpful,” says client Terry Roy, “they have my business for life.”

Come in to the new store at 23301 Avenida de la Carlota in Laguna Hills for Renaissance Home Furnishing’s Grand Opening Sale through the month of May and start the summer with a fresh new look for your family room, bedroom or home office.

Renaissance Home Furnishings
23301 Avenida de la Carlota • Laguna Hills • 949.770.9772 • RenaissanceHomeFurnishings.com

Taste of OC 2012

The Taste of Orange County has it all: food, wine, beer, art and entertainment. After a 16 year hiatus, this two-day culinary festival will feature more than 50 restaurants and wineries, chef demos and signature events. Make your way to the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater on June 16th and 17th to sample what’s cooking.

The Taste of Orange County will also present singular experiences such as the Great OC Farm To Table Dinner where attendees will be treated to the best in local, organic and sustainable fare with premium wine pairings on the amphitheater stage. Some of the proceeds from this event will be donated to the Culinary Liberation Front (founded by chef Patrick Glennon of Santa Monica Seafood). This group of Orange County chefs come together to share their craft and to exchange industry ideas that leave the least environmental footprint possible while teaching nutritional education to those in need.

Be sure to check out the Father’s Day Feast – Carne-Palooza – on Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. To mix things up, dads and their guests will enjoy a veritable feast from tables set on the main stage of the venue while music from front row center accompanies the meal. Before and after the feast, the Taste of Orange County will offer family-friendly art displays, projects, tastings, demos, music and entertainment.

For those wine lovers out there, here is your chance to taste wine like a master sommelier. During the OC Ultra Lounge event, master sommelier and certified wine educator, Michael Jordan from The Ranch, will lead a “blind tasting” adventure that focuses on recognizing the clues hidden within a glass of wine. Also inside the OC Ultra Lounge, you’ll find Executive Chef Jerrold-Jones of Cory Martin Events offering signature cooking demos, special wine seminars and pairings, Dos Armadillos tequila tastings, a Saturday night VIP party with DJ music to rock the house and exclusive gift bags.

The two-day event will also present Art á la Carte – where attendees will be able to view artwork from more than 75 fine OC artists exhibiting throughout the festival. Sponsored by LagunaART.com, discover some of the best artists in the county through artist displays, sculpture gardens and live model sketching. A silent auction with 100 percent of the proceeds benefitting the Orange County Food Bank will also take place at the event.

Last but definitely not least, Taste of Orange County patrons are invited to experience their favorite drink at The OC Cocktail Classic. Be sure to vote for your favorite!

GIVING BACK: Make a Difference for Maddie

As a parent, it’s the unthinkable. You’ve just been handed a diagnosis that your child is dying. One moment, the world makes sense and the next it’s an incomprehensible blur of shock, disbelief, anger and unfathomable grief. This is the reality for Collie and Kajsa James. On January 14th of this year, their healthy, vibrant 5-year- old daughter, Madeleine Reese James, was just like every other kindergartner at St. Anne School, laughing with her friends on the playground. Two days later, they were told their only child was going to die.

Maddie’s Story
After Maddie’s mother noticed that she appeared “more tired than usual” and that “her balance seemed a little off” she was taken to Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) where a CT scan uncovered a malignant, inoperable brain tumor known as Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). Located on the brain stem where the spinal cord meets the brain, it is the most feared pediatric brain tumor. Within weeks, the disease causes a deterioration in the ability to walk followed by a steady loss of motor control throughout the body. There is no cure. The survival rate is zero. Kajsa’s and Collie’s only solace was that the disease did not typically cause significant pain. The James’ had a mission to do something positive to properly honor Maddie’s memory. Knowing her love of the sea and everything under the waves, they immediately thought of The Ocean Institute in Dana Point. Maddie often referred to it as “the best place ever” and would stick the name tags she received daily at Sea Camp to her bedroom wall.After contacting the Ocean Institute with Maddie’s story, Kajsa and Collie learned of its expansion plans for an educational center that would cater to children, like Maddie, that have a passion for the ocean. Their mission became even more clear when Maddie saw Kajsa looking at the plans and she asked what they were. When Kajsa explained, Maddie said, “That’s so cool, mommy. Are we going to help them build it?” With all her heart, Kajsa responded, “Yes, Maddie, we are.”The Ocean Institute is currently in the final phase of it’s $4M Capital Campaign to build the new Seaside Learning Center. To be built right “on the water,” the facility will introduce thousands of K-12 students and public visitors to current and emerging issues in oceanography, environmental science and maritime history. A series of learning stations have been carefully designed for the Seaside Learning Center to provide immersion-style education.

Maddie passed on March 13th, 2011. Her ashes will be spread at sea, but her parents are determined to see her memory live on through the Maddie James Foundation.

The Seaside Learning Center project is shovel-ready with all permits in place. What’s needed are the necessary funds to make it happen. Depending upon success with fundraising, construction is planned for summer/fall of 2011.

How You Can Help
The Maddie James Seaside Learning Center would be possible with a donation of $1,000,000 from the Maddie James Foundation. Please support and contribute to the foundation’s goal. To make a tax deductible donation to the Maddie James Foundation, visit www.maddiejamesfoundation.org

Several upcoming fundraising events also offer opportunities for  you to make a difference:

April 3rd at LEGENDS SALON: $25 HAIRCUTS
(at any of their three locations)
All Proceeds to Benefit the Foundation

April 3rd at OC Tavern:
5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
20% of Your Entire Bill
Goes to the Foundation

April 15th – 17th at Ortega Car Wash:
Bring in this Article and $5 will be Donated From Each Car Wash
www.MaddieJamesFoundation.org

www.Ocean-Institute.org

World Premiere of Tickled Pink Starring Rita Rudner
by Anthony Small

Award-winning comedian Rita Rudner will return to her theatrical roots by joining the cast of The Laguna Playhouse’s production of Tickled Pink, making its world premiere on April 24th and running through May 20th. Written by Rudner and her longtime creative partner and husband, Martin Bergman, Tickled Pink is the stage adaptation of Rudner’s 2002 best-selling novel of the same name. Bergman, who has a thirty year track record of producing, writing and directing for stage, TV, and film, will direct the play. Rudner quips tongue-in-cheek, “I’m so looking forward to acting in a play again. It’s been a long time since I’ve been paid such little money.”

Tickled Pink tracks the journey of a youthfully spirited and Broadway bound Mindy Solomon who moves from Florida to New York dreaming of a dancing career. Unexpected events force her to rethink her grand plan. After hanging out night after night in a comedy club where her boyfriend was working, Mindy gathered up enough nerve to take the stage herself. When she gets her first laugh from the audience, she is immediately hooked. Rudner elaborated, “The play is about becoming a comedian, female friendships and is a celebration of the 80’s and there are no bad words! When the novel was written, it was like a different planet. No internet, no Facebook…and no Kardashians.”

Rudner and Bergman have been married for 23 years and met 25 years ago when she was cast in a play he was producing. “He hired me, he paid me, I married him. Go figure, I slept with the producer after I already got the job! I do love being married. It’s so great to find that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life,” says Rudner. They have written several screenplays together, including Peter’s Friends, in which Rudner also acted, and a play called Room 776 that premiered in Las Vegas in 2008.

Rudner is also the author of the best-selling I Still Have It…I Just Can’t Remember Where I Put It: Confessions of a Fiftysomething and Naked Beneath My Clothes. She’s also written two fiction novels: Tickled Pink and Turning The Tables.

This will be Rudner’s third artistic endeavor with The Laguna Playhouse which was founded in 1920 and is celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2011-2012. Rudner has previously done stand up at the theatre the last two summers. Rudner shares, “It is the perfect little theatre and usually has only three or four characters on stage. This is quite an ambitious production for that theatre. Our cast has thirteen people…and most play three parts! I play three parts for which I am appropriately cast: an overbearing mother, an over the hill dancer and a lady who’s not too bright.” Karen Wood, The Laguna Playhouse’s Executive Director, says, “We are extremely fortunate to call Rita and Martin neighbors and creative collaborators. They are delightful and savvy professionals and we couldn’t be more thrilled to offer their world class talent to the Orange County community.”

Since 2000, Rudner has sold over one million tickets to her Las Vegas performances and in 2011 moved to her own theatre at The Venetian. “I feel fortunate because I’m not a natural fit for Las Vegas. I’m quiet, remained clothed onstage and don’t drink, smoke or swear,” remarks Rudner. She was recognized with the Gracie Allen Award from the American Women in Television for her syndicated improvisational comedy, Ask Rita, and in May 2009 performed for President Obama at Caesars Palace along with Bette Midler and Sheryl Crow. PBS will air Rita Rudner: Live From Las Vegas on May 31st at 7 p.m. locally on KOCE. For more information on TV airdates, her Las Vegas show and other performances, visit her hilarious website at www.RitaFunny.com.

Tickets For Tickled Pink Are On Sale Now!
For more information about showtimes and to purchase tickets,
go to www.LagunaPlayhouse.com or call 949.497.ARTS (2787).

San Clemente Villas by the Sea
By Shelley T. Hudson

Even as San Clemente Villas steams toward its ten-year anniversary this October, owners Paul and Aileen Brazeau show no signs of slowing down. The couple built this bustling retirement community from the ground up in 2002 on property adjacent to Saddleback Memorial Medical Center in hopes of bringing quality living and personalized care to South Orange County seniors. They spared no expense in creating their vision—San Clemente Villas boasts an 85˚ heated pool, fitness center, beauty salon and movie theater among its many amenities.

Paul Brazeau still wears his Boston accent, even after 55 years in SoCal, and he’s hung onto his strong work ethic as well. After World War II, Paul made his home here and used his naval training in electrical engineering to start a modest contracting business. After only a few years, he was running one of the largest electrical contracting businesses in Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Paul also started dabbling in commercial real estate and found himself caught up in a building boom. Brazeau capitalized on his fortunate timing and built 38 shopping centers in a mere nine years.

Brazeau invested in a continuing care facility for seniors in La Jolla in the early 1990’s and discovered a new passion. This was his first foray into this burgeoning industry and Paul immediately recognized the growth potential. His wife Aileen jumped in with both feet as well, learning everything she could about management and operations. When Hyatt Hotels bought the La Jolla business, the Brazeaus decided to take advantage of their experience and start their own brand of senior care.

Paul and Aileen learned a valuable business lesson from their years in La Jolla. “Getting older is recession-proof,” states Paul matter-of-factly. After a $14M investment and two and a half years of construction, the Brazeaus opened their three-acre facility to little fanfare, however. Aileen admits, “This business is tough. It’s labor-intensive. We had to be fully-staffed when we opened the doors and each employee required an extensive background check.” Despite stringent regulations from the Health Department, Coastal Commission and other agencies, the couple was determined to provide an unprecedented level of services and amenities to its residents without the typical resident buy-in.

San Clemente Villas’ 134 units are operated as monthly rentals, much like regular apartments. These units, however, come with three meals per day in a restaurant-style dining room, a calendar packed with activities and an ocean view. The casual setting and ideal location for easy-access shopping and medical care bring seniors to San Clemente Villas, but the gourmet food, amenities and socialization keep them here. The facility’s medical call system and proximity to emergency care—280 feet to the door of Saddleback Memorial’s ER—give residents and their families peace of mind unmatched by more traditional retirement centers. Activities like water therapy, happy hour, tai chi, movie nights, shuttle service for errands, live music and dancing provide opportunities for fun that might not be available to seniors who stay in the family homestead. The 22-unit Alzheimer’s wing features one-on-one 24-hour care, specialized programming, an expansive, secure outdoor recreation area and separate dining room.

According to Aileen, 85% of San Clemente Villas’ residents come from within a five-mile radius and they find it easy to stay involved in the community in which they raised their families and maintained their careers. Paul and Aileen run the facility day-to-day and they wouldn’t have it any other way. “These people are our family and we like to see them smile,” says Aileen, “They come here for easy living. We’re very proud of our business.”

San Clemente Villas
660 Camino de Los Mares, San Clemente * 949.489.3400
SanClementeVillas.com

19th Annual Wagathon

If you’ve missed your favorite Chinese restaurant in Dana Point, you’re in luck! After eight years in the former Hollywood Video center on Coast Highway, Helena Ha’s Kaleyard has moved to a new location on Niguel Road in the Clubhouse Plaza. Helena and chef/business partner Kelly offer generous portions of authentic Chinese cuisine at family-friendly prices. They’ve kept all the local favorites on the extensive menu, including fifty “lite and lowfat” items, delivering a healthy and tasty Chinese option to the local area.

On my recent visit, my friend and I sampled a variety of Kaleyard’s most popular dishes. Our appetizer sampler included Vegetable Egg Rolls, Chicken Dumplings, Scallion Pancakes and Aromatic Shrimp. The crispy shelled egg rolls were packed with fresh, crunchy vegetables. The dumplings were as light as air and stuffed with perfectly seasoned chicken, accompanied by a sweet, tangy sauce for dipping. The scallion pancakes were a more substantial choice and served with a very spicy hot mustard sauce. We enjoyed the Aromatic Shrimp appetizer as well, which was sautéed in a sweet and spicy reduction and lightly fried. One bite, and I understood why this is a Kaleyard signature dish.

My companion’s entrée was a hearty serving of Mongolian Beef. His squeaky-clean plate was an obvious signal that the tender strips of beef sautéed with grilled onions and scallions in a piquant brown sauce was a hit. The Mixed Vegetables with Tofu was my choice for lunch – and it did not disappoint. After indulging in such a decadent variety of starters, I relished the lighter fare. The seasonal vegetables were cross-cut into bite-sized pieces and sautéed in a feather-light sauce with soft tofu. At only 150 calories and ½ gram of fat, this well-portioned dish is a dieter’s dream!

The lunch specials at Kaleyard are an exceptional value. Most entrées come in at around $8 and include salad, choice of soup, egg roll, dumpling and rice. From 4 – 6 p.m. on weekdays, an early bird special offering 20% off the entire menu is easy on the wallet and a terrific excuse for an early dinner. If you’re interested in eating Kaleyard’s cuisine at home, take out and free delivery (on $30 minimum orders) are also available.

For more information please visit
www.PetProjectFoundation.org

by Shelley T. Hudson

Just when you’ve finally pulled the last remnants of plastic grass from your carpet and worked off last year’s Peeps, Easter comes hippity-hopping down the bunny trail all over again. This year, treat your entire family to good, sweet fun throughout South Orange County at these holiday events.

Dana Point
The City of Dana Point’s Egg Hunts are jelly bean-packed with activities—and free! The simultaneous celebrations start at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 7th at Pines Park (34941 Camino Capistrano) and Sea Canyon Park (33101 Trinidad Drive). Kids ten and younger are welcome to enjoy the petting zoos, games and visits with Mr. Cottontail himself. The egg hunts start at 10:00 a.m. sharp, so bring baskets to gather your loot and cameras to capture the fun.

If you’re an early riser, join parishioners of Coast Bible Church at Lantern Bay Park Amphitheater (25111 Park Lantern Road) for Sunrise Service on Sunday, April 8th at 6:30 a.m. An uplifting message and live music will inspire and entertain.

Laguna Beach
The American Legion continues its 50-plus-year tradition with the popular Annual Easter Egg Hunt. Kids nine years and younger are invited to bring empty baskets and participate in free activities. The festivities start at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 8th at Laguna Beach High’s baseball field (625 Park Avenue), but you can arrive early to pose with the Easter Bunny.

Laguna Niguel
Laguna Niguel Parks & Rec is sponsoring its annual Bunny Blast on Saturday, April 7th from 9:00 a.m. till 12:30 p.m. at Chapparosa Park (25191 Chapparosa Park Road). Kid-sized fun includes face painting, pony rides, a bounce house, shows, a petting zoo and crafts. Remember to bring cash for snacks and entry; admission is $7 for ages 3 – 12 and $1 for ages 13 and up. Please leave your pets at home and call the hotline for updates in the event of rain—949.425.5100.

San Clemente
The Springtacular is one of San Clemente’s signature events. Starting with a pancake breakfast (for a nominal fee) hosted by the Kiwanis Club at 7:30 a.m. and culminating with a Great Big Egg Hunt at 11:00 a.m. for newborns through age ten, this free festival is a can’t-miss. The party will be held at Vista Hermosa Sports Park (987 Avenida Vista Hermosa) on Saturday, April 7th. Roaming entertainers, games and Easter Bunny visits will surprise and delight the young ones. Yummy snacks will be available for purchase. For more information, contact the Recreation Division at 949.361.8264.

The City of San Clemente has teamed with Family Assistance Ministries once again for the Community Easter Brunch at Our Lady of Fatima (105 N. La Esperanza) on Saturday, April 7th at 10:00 a.m. This event provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy fellowship with needy individuals and families in our community. Stop by FAM at 929 Calle Negocio to pick up an invitation for someone who could use a helping hand (walk-ups also accepted). Volunteers and donations are welcome. For information, call 949.492.8477.

Talega Village Center and Radio Disney will host an Easter party from noon until 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 1st. The Radio Disney Road Crew will lead bunny dances and contests and an Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt right in front of Spoon Deep Yogurt. The Easter Bunny also will be on hand for photos and fuzzy little hugs.

Nancy Pellegrino, N.P.

For Nancy Pellegrino, N.P., skin care is serious business. As the face behind some of Orange County’s most prominent and most recognizable men and women (including some you may have seen on a certain TV reality series featuring OC housewives), she’s sought out by a loyal following of moms and movers and shakers for her well-honed expertise in aesthetic medicine.

With Nancy Pellegrino’s 13 plus years of experience as a Nurse Practitioner specializing in skin care treatments and procedures, she’s one of the go-to-gurus in Orange County. Pellegrino has performed over 10,000 injections of Botox® and Juvederm® since 1999 and offers the full spectrum of skin care procedures and products at her practice.

Nancy’s results-oriented approach to achieving a natural, more youthful you, starts with the basics – having the best skin possible. She believes strongly that fabulous looking skin is the foundation from which a beautiful face evolves. “I offer my client’s visible results; it’s really that simple. It’s not necessary to overwork skin with an abundance of lotions, potions, scrubs and rubs…selecting the right products for your skin care regimen, a diligent use of sunscreen and addressing the inevitable signs of aging are the essential components.” She adds, “Many patients that I consult with for the first time are unaware of the tools and technology that are now available for skin care issues that were formerly untreatable. Patients who once believed that surgical procedures were the only solution are now thrilled with the alternatives I can offer.”

Nancy’s years of experience, advanced education and professional training give her patients a certain peace of mind when sitting in her chair. “It takes more than a medical license and knowledge of facial anatomy to be successful in my field. Injecting Botox®, for example, is a skillful art; the ability to understand optimal placement and appropriate dosage are paramount to achieving a natural look and safe outcome. This type of expertise is only acquired through hands-on experience over an extended period of time,” says Nancy.

Nancy is known for implementing a “less is more” philosophy when treating patients. “I strive to deliver consistent, natural results that appear subtle and unnoticeable. I know I’ve done my job well when the outcome makes my client look well-rested, refreshed and underdone. The best compliment is when others comment on how great a client looks after visiting my office, but they can’t quite pinpoint what’s different,” confides Nancy.

Drawing on her experience as a makeup artist for models and actresses in print, commercials and film, Nancy brings an artistic understanding of highlights and shadows that enable her to effectively camouflage or emphasize facial features with fillers like Juvederm® and Restylane®. “My approach merges art and science, which allows me to fight aging with a comprehensive set of tools and a discerning eye,” shares Nancy.

Industry professionals have also recognized Nancy as top-notch among her peers. She’s been selected as an A.C.E. speaker and trainer for Allergan, Inc. – the makers of Botox®, Juvederm® and Latisse®. As one of only 32 A.C.E. trainers in the United States, she educates physicians and other medical professionals on technique and use of the company’s products. Additionally, she’s a Medicis, Corp. National Trainer for Restylane®. Nancy also lectures at the UCLA and CSULB Schools of Nursing.

Nancy Pellegrino, N.P.
180 Newport Center Drive, Suite 160
Newport Beach, CA 92660
(949) 706-9919
npaesthetics.com

OC Short Sale 411
By Shelley T. Hudson

The real estate roller coaster has taken Orange County on a wild ride – leaving many upside down, searching for a way to get back on track. Distressed homeowners unable to make mortgage payments or facing the loss of their homes are in desperate need of experienced professionals equipped with the knowledge and industry connections to ease them through an often emotionally and financially draining process.

In late 2007, Robyn Webb was studying local and national economic markers when she noticed some alarming trends. Having owned and operated a real estate business for several years, she began researching foreclosure laws in preparation for what she believed to be an impending market decline. Her husband and business partner, Matt Webb, supported her efforts to launch OC Short Sale 411. Robyn utilized her MBA and her corporate background to begin establishing high-level executive relationships with the largest banks in the mortgage industry: Bank of America, Wells Fargo and Chase.

The mission of OC Short Sale 411 was simple; for those wanting to avoid foreclosure, the company provided homeowners a graceful and proactive exit from an oppressive mortgage, with the quickest financial recovery possible. “The first couple of years were rough,” Robyn explains, “The banks didn’t have established processes, employee turnover was high and the volume of short sale requests was unmanageable.” Having been one of the first to tread through the complicated and arduous process of obtaining a short sale approval, Robyn collaborated with banks to streamline and improve transactions.

Robyn and Matt describe their clients as “regular people who suffer from frugal fatigue.” OC Short Sale 411 primarily services homeowners who are 10% or more “underwater.” “Our clients are not enjoying their lives and have become slaves to mortgages. They are using retirement savings to pay bills and can’t even afford to go out to dinner.” Robyn and Matt are seeing a shift in the attitudes of Orange County homeowners. “People are tired of keeping up the appearance that everything is okay. We have been amazed at how many homeowners come to us embarrassed and afraid to miss mortgage payments, but after the process is complete, are ready to shout from the mountaintops how much better their lives are.” Robyn adds, “Giving people their lives back, and the appreciation that our clients share with us, has been the most rewarding accomplishment in my career.”

Robyn has successfully negotiated over 100 short sales and has obtained an approval on every short sale attempted. Webb attributes her impressive record to carefully screening her clients, cultivating relationships with banks and not “passing clients off” to an attorney or third party negotiator. Robyn was recognized in OC Metro’s 2011 “40 Under 40,” top, young professionals in Orange County. She has also recently been selected as an Instructor for the Distressed Property Institute, home of the prestigious CDPE (Certified Distress Property Expert) designation. She is now one of only 13 instructors nationwide, and the only one in Southern California, teaching real estate agents how to properly and ethically complete short sales.

In 2011, California anti-deficiency laws (580e and SB 458) passed, making California a very “short sale-friendly” state. Between the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act and the anti-deficiency laws, a vast majority of California homeowners can short sell their homes with no deficiencies and no tax consequences.

The emergence of this new “distress homeowner” industry has created a boom for attorneys, loan modification companies and real estate agents. Unfortunately, not all of these professionals have the experience, expertise and industry connections necessary to achieve the most favorable outcomes. The result has been a lot of conflicting information for homeowners, which has left many feeling confused and frustrated.

Eager to give homeowners a place to get accurate and unbiased information, the Webbs launched the non-profit organization, Under Water Home 411, last Fall. The mission of the organization is to reduce foreclosures through homeowner education about foreclosure alternatives. Under Water Home 411 hosts complimentary seminars every other month featuring an impressive speaker panel of industry experts from the credit, bankruptcy, short sale and loan modification fields. Recent attendee Deanne M. of San Clemente shared, “I liked that I could trust what I was being told. It was obvious all the presenters were extremely knowledgeable in their area.”

While Robyn is proud of her professional recognition, she is most enthusiastic about offering effective resources for homeowners in need. “We’re helping people enjoy their lives again,” she says, “and that’s the highest priority.”

“We didn’t even fully realize what a burden that home was in our lives until we were granted freedom from the oppressive debt it represented. We were slaves to it. To say our lives are improved is an understatement. You’ve given us a clean slate. What a gift”
— Kurt & Jennifer Witt

OC Short Sale 411
855.696.2411 • OCshortsale411.com

Got Camp? Your guide to Summer Camps around the county.
By Cathy Villafana

2012 Youth Summer Football Camp
Looking for some gridiron fun? Then check out the 2012 Youth Summer Football Camp in San Juan Capistrano. JSerra Catholic High School’s head football coach, Jim Hartigan, will be hosting this camp at the high school for 3rd through 8th graders of all skill levels. As the former coach to Oakland Raiders quarterback Carson Palmer, Hartigan is well-equipped to teach your youngster a move or two. Running from June 25th to July 5th from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. daily (no camp on July 4th), players will learn flag and tackle football skills, participate in flag football tournaments, and can win prizes from daily contests. For more inf ormation and to register, email theearlyedge@gmail.com or call 949.276.2800 x4213.

Danman’s Rock Camp
Band members wanted! Danman’s Music School in Dana Point is getting an early jump on summer by offering its weekly Rock Camp this spring break from April 9th to the 13th. The camp starts back up again on June 25th and runs through August 3rd. Give your kids that extra boost of confidence in their musical skills as well as the ability to play in a real live band. Each camp week wraps up with a live performance. Just imagine the lasting memories your child will have when they get a standing ovation from their greatest fans — their family and friends. Go towww.danmans.com or call 949.496.6556 to learn more.

BrainStorm
With the amazing and versatile LEGO® MINDSTORMS® system, kids learn how to program and build custom robots, while problem solving at the same time. San Juan Capistrano’s BrainStorm takes the fun to a whole new level by adding filmmaking to the mix. Using the latest technology, kids will also explore storytelling and creative thinking by making amazing animated and live-action films. It’s tinkering and technology at its best! Visitwww.brainstormkidsstudios.com or call 949.607.8676 for more information.

St. Anne’s Summer Knights Day Camp
Preschoolers through middle-schoolers are in for a treat at St. Anne’s Summer Knights Day Camp. Kids will be immersed in a fun-filled program designed around weekly themes from June 19th through August 10th. Activities include light academics, arts and crafts, water play, special guests, cooking, and field trips to some of the area’s most exciting destinations! Have peace of mind knowing that your child is in a comfortable, well-supervised and safe environment. Working parents will also appreciate the camp’s flexible schedule and can select from several program options to suit their needs. Visit www.st-anne.org or phone 949.276.6700 for more information.

St. Mary’s Summer Resort
Offering a wide array of summer camp activities, there’s something for every preschooler to eighth grader at St. Mary’s Summer Resort. Beginning June 18th, your child can partake in camps offering art, music, academics and a variety of sports (lacrosse, basketball, soccer, track, football, volleyball and cheer). Specialty programs are also available where kids can even become an Iron Chef for the week. Check out www.smaa.org or call 949.448.9027 for information.

Zen Dojos Karate Camps
This summer, Zen Dojos Martial Arts Academy in San Juan Capistrano will keep your kids on the move with an action-packed schedule of activities. With 3,000 square feet dedicated to camps, kids will practice martial arts each day, participate in Bully Buster classes and safety talks, enjoy cool field trips, play fun and active games, watch movies, take part in dance competitions, arts and crafts and more. Zen Dojos also has game systems, including the interactive Kung-Fu LIVE. Are you tired yet? Your kids will certainly be! Pre-register by March 31st for only $199 per week, with 9 weeks to choose from. Call 949.240.6574 or visitwww.TheKarateClub.com for more information.