Griffin Optometric Group

POWERS GRIFFIN, O.D., S. RANDALL GRIFFIN, O.D., PATRICK GRIFFIN, O.D., BRAD CALLISTER, O.D. & LUCY DEMOSS, O.D. 

PART OF THE COMMUNITY 

FOR OVER 60 YEARS 

Since 1957 Griffin Optometric Group has been committed to the vision and eye health of its patients. 

There have been many key milestones throughout the history of the longstanding, locally based, and family-owned optometric practice, first established by Dr. Ted Griffin over 60 years ago. Dr. Griffin’s goal was to build a progressive, forward-thinking, and patient-oriented practice based on a foundation of excellence and community involvement. Griffin Optometric holds these values at the core of its business, where they continue to inspire staff to provide exceptional service on a daily basis that is second to none. 

Sons Powers, Randy and Patrick have operated the family business in the way their father did—with a steadfast commitment to both patients and community. Griffin Optometric‘s local offices are in downtown San Clemente, Laguna Niguel, and Talega. Each facility provides full-service family eye care and is equipped with the latest high-tech diagnostic equipment. Many adult patients have been coming to Griffin Optometric for over 30 years and now bring their own children. This kind of patient loyalty is a testament to the professional and personal dedication of Griffin’s doctors and team members. 

Griffin Optometric’s primary focus is ensuring optimal eye health for its patients through education and regular eye exams. During routine screenings, the doctors test for signs of glaucoma, cataracts and other significant vision threatening diseases and recommend the appropriate course of treatment. Griffin Optometric also provides emergency eye care and surgical evaluations when needed. 

Griffin Optometric Group

140 Ave. Del Mar, Downtown SC
949.492.1853
www.GriffinOptometric.com 

1001 Ave. Pico, Ste. A, Talega
949.940.0200
www.GriffinTalega.com 

30030 Town Center Dr., Laguna Niguel
949.495.3031
www.GriffinLagunaNiguel.com 

Elite Vein Institute

ANNE LUHAN, MD, FACS, ABVLM, RPHS, CWSP

Take care of your leg health today!
People suffering from the harmful effects, discomfort and insightfulness of spider and varicose veins have discovered extraordinary results at Dr. Luhan’s Elite Vein Institute. 

Do you have unsightly spider veins?
Spider veins are small, bluish veins seen on various areas of the legs and occasionally the face. They can resemble a bruise in appearance. They can be very unsightly and can cause self-consciousness. After careful treatment, Dr. Luhan’s patients are often happily wearing shorts again. 

Do you experience discomfort, ankle swelling, heavy legs or varicose veins?
If so, you may be one of 80 million Americans who are plagued with varicose veins and may not even realize you have them. Many who have experienced varicose veins believe they are simply a cosmetic issue that is more of a nuisance than a genuine medical concern. The fact is that varicose veins are a massively underdiagnosed and undertreated problem that can progress into a more serious medical condition, if not addressed properly. Dr. Luhan is making it her mission to educate patients and the community about varicose veins. 

Dr. Luhan’s practice offers a comprehensive approach correcting multiple causes of vein disorders and helps restore the look and health of every patient’s leg, whether the issue is cosmetic or health-related. 

Procedures can be performed without invasive anesthesia and require little down time. Procedures are often covered by Medicare and other insurance companies. As a faculty member of national phlebology organizations, Dr. Luhan is always at the forefront of the latest technologies in the treatment of vein problems. For many patients, receiving treatment is life-altering, enabling them to now lead active, productive lives that were once not possible. 

Dr. Anne Luhan is certified by the American Board of General Surgery, the American Board of Surgical Critical Care, the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine and the American Board of Woundcare Management. Having passed these prestigious boards shows full commitment to the treatment of venous disease. With these credentials and expertise, it’s no wonder that Dr. Luhan’s patients put their full trust in her hands. 

ELITE VEIN INSTITUTE
Los Altos Medical Plaza
26691 Plaza, Ste. 140 • Mission Viejo
949.388.4800 • EliteVeinInstitute.com

DermFx

ERIN ALONSO, MSN, FNP

For 20 years, DermFx has been offering state-of-the-art beauty treatments that are affordable to everyone. The medispa studios are a locally owned and operated business. Competitive pricing and uncompromising care of patients remain paramount to its mission. They have placed number one in practically every category in the beauty industry. 

DermFx, being one of the oldest and most comprehensive aesthetic clinics, is a great start for anyone looking to accent their beauty. Experience is the key to our continued success. As pioneers of the “medispa era,” they have treated close to a hundred thousand patients from all walks of life. DermFx houses over 26 state-of-the-art light and laser-based systems, the most extensive in California. 

Awards:
• DermFx is one of Allergan’s top 50 accounts
• Diamond Crystal Practice for CoolSculpting – The highest level a provider can reach.
• Orange County Best Laser Removal
• Excellence in Patient Satisfaction 

DermFx is overseen by Todd Miller, MD. Dr. Miller is an accomplished and highly trained head and neck surgeon who specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. 

Featured Provider
Erin Alonso is a Family Nurse Practitioner with 25 years of experience in aesthetic medicine and non-surgical laser treatments. Her passion is utilizing multiple modalities to help patients achieve their best look using fillers, neurotoxins, lasers, radio frequency, ultrasound, and nutrition. She is revered as a expert in the aesthetics industry with a history of training the world’s top-tier cosmetic surgeons, physician assistants, and nurses for Allergan, Medicis, Bioform, Suneva, and McGhan. 

Erin is committed to providing state-of-the-art aesthetic solutions coupled with a deep commitment to compassionate care. Her north star driving focus is making the world a better place, be it with her patients’ anti-aging mission, rescuing animals, or spending time with her children. Erin lives a life of purpose to help others succeed. Another effort close to Erin’s heart is the Forgotten Foundation which Erin founded, benefiting orphaned children in Mexicali. 

FREE Consultations for Your Beauty Needs
Consultations are always free. DermFX is open 7 days a week and is rarely undersold. The staff strives to surpass your every expectation and are there to help you capture your best look. An integral part of their approach is commitment to an education that will make your experience a collaborative effort in fulfilling your beauty needs. Schedule your free consult today! 

DermFx
134184 Pacific Coast Hwy,
Dana Point
949.487.5180
DermFX.com

Cold Rush Wellness

SCOTT YOUNG, D.C.

Dr. Scott Young is a Gonstead-skilled chiropractor and, together with his talented assistant, Demi, is ready to help patients with cutting-edge treatments. In the months since the pandemic subsided, the team at Cold Rush Wellness has been busy treating patients daily. The practice is clean and secure and ready for more patients. Dr. Young has also added percussion massage to his repertoire of effective care. Just in time for the opening of youth sports, this treatment utilizes high frequency vibration which is excellent for treating sports injuries. 

Cold Rush Wellness’s percussion therapy uses the Pro Muscle Release 1000 from Modus Therapeutics. It is a hydraulic-powered, therapeutic modality that precisely administers the benefits of percussion therapy. This patented technology delivers rapid, mechanical percussions that penetrate multiple muscle layers, thereby promoting improved blood flow, accelerating recovery, and bringing muscle pain relief. Percussion therapy provides the following benefits: 

• Break-up of adhesions and internal scar tissue
• Improvement of venous circulation and lymphatic drainage
• Restoration of elasticity and length to muscle fibers
• Relaxation of thickened connective tissue
• Enhancement in range of movement by relieving joint stiffness
• Break-up of lactic acid

Our other effective treatment, cryotherapy (scientifically called Cryo Stimulation) has been applied as a medical application for muscle pain treatment, including:

• Delayed-Onset Muscle Pain and Soreness
• Muscle Strain and Muscle Spasm
• Post Surgical Recovery
• Joint Sprains
• Shoulder Impingement
• Sciatica
• Tendonitis/Tendinitis
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Bursitis
• Bulging and/or Herniated Disc
• TMJ Syndrome 

Cold Rush Wellness’s other treatments include: Whole Body Cryotherapy, Local Cryotherapy, CryoFacials, Chiropractic Care, percussion massage and AlphaSwitch Metabolic Training. If you feel that you, or someone you know, can directly benefit from the health services this treatment program provides, give Cold Rush Wellness a call and make the transformative appointment today. 

Cold Rush Wellness
30251 Golden Lantern, Ste. B
Laguna Niguel
949.281.6853
ColdRushWellness.com

Advanced Dermatology*

GENERAL • COSMETIC • SURGICAL

Where do doctors and their families in South Orange County go when they need dermatological and cosmetic care?
They choose Advanced Dermatology at Dana Point (the one and only location) Why? 

Experience
The doctors are board certified dermatologists who have been delivering care to South Orange County residents for more than 15 years. With a combined 55+ years of clinical experience in dermatology and cosmetic care, the doctors have set a standard for exceptional service and their practice has been regarded as the premier dermatology center in the area. 

Team-Based Management
The team of dermatologists believe in a collaborative approach to your care. They draw from each others expertise to diagnose difficult cases, craft custom treatment plans, and provide the highest level of care as a team. 

Comprehensive Care
The office provides expert dermatologic care in all aspects of skin, hair and nail treatments for patients of all ages. 

Cutting Edge Technologies
Advanced Dermatology incorporates the latest advancements in medical, surgical and aesthetic/cosmetic breakthroughs in its daily practice. The office has the most state-of-the-art and cutting edge methods to provide personalized treatment options for skin cancers as well as the most dramatic cosmetic and body sculpting results with the least risk and little down time. Superficial Precision Radiation, industry-leading lasers, Coolsculpting, EM sculpt NEO, Threadlifts, Mohs Surgery. You may not know what they are, but Advanced Dermatology has them and are experts in wielding these technological wonders. 

Friendly Staff & Convenient Location
You will find the staff to be friendly, compassionate and helpful. Everyone believes the mission of delivering exceptional medical and cosmetic dermatologic care in a caring and compassionate manner. The spacious office is located on Pacific Coast Highway, complete with easy access and ample parking. Receptionists answer phone calls and provide 24-hour emergency access to your dermatologist. 

Advanced Dermatology*
34213 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Dana Point
949.248.4547
DermSC.com

Advanced Center For Sports &
Musculoskeletal Medicine

ERIC SICKINGER, DO
MELISSA BURMAN, MD 

Advanced Center For Sports & Musculoskeletal Medicine treats patients with bone, muscle, tendon, and ligament problems as well as sport or activity related injuries. 

Common activity-related and sports conditions seen:
• Joint Sprains and Pain
• Soft Tissue Contusions/Bruises
• Bone Bruises
• Joint Dislocations
• Muscle Strains & Tears
• Ligament Sprains & Tears
• Tendonitis
• Overuse Injuries
• Bone Fractures
• Joint Hypermobility & Laxity
• Bursitis
• Skin Infections
• Arthritis
• Sports Physicals 

Meet the Doctors
Dr. Eric Sickinger was born and raised in Southern California and has been an athlete his whole life. His interest in sports accompanied him throughout his education and ultimately led him into the medical profession where he became a Sports/ Musculoskeletal Board Certified Physician. 

Dr. Melissa Burman is a graduate of Arizona State University where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology. Afterwards, she received her medical degree (and Masters in Administration) from the University of Medicine Health Sciences in St. Kitts. Her residency was completed in Internal Medicine at Northside Hospital near Atlanta, Georgia. She then furthered her expertise in the musculoskeletal system by completing a Sports Medicine fellowship at Eisenhower Health in California. 

Active Lifestyles
Commonly seen patients include professional, amateur, college, high school, middle school, and club/recreational athletes. Individuals who are active in their occupation or lifestyle are also seen at the clinic. Those include firefighters, police, mechanics, military, maintenance workers, lifeguards, and construction workers, just to name a few. 

Whether you are active for a hobby, as an athlete, or just want to maintain a healthy, Southern California lifestyle, you will be treated with the same elite care. Patients of all ages, from childhood to adults, can be treated at the facility. Contact Advanced Center for Sports & Musculoskeletal Medicine for a consultation and start feeling better today. 

Advanced Center For Sports & Musculoskeletal Medicine
665 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 305
San Clemente
949.388.1060

41990 Cook St., Bldg F, Ste # 1006
Palm Desert
760.636.1067
SportsandMSKmedicine.com

Battle 4 Betsy

Fight Against Brain Cancer

Sadly, Betsy was diagnosed with brain cancer and has been told by her doctors that her options locally have been exhausted. She has found new hope though Stanford Medical and they have agreed to take her as a patient and perform the life saving surgery needed. Unfortunately, these doctors are out-of-network and not covered. Any and all donations are greatly appreciated.

Fundraiser September 4, 2022

12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Elks Lodge, San Clemente
1505 N. El Camino Real

Food, Live Music, Silent Auction, Raffle Prizes and Full Bar

Tickets available now or purchase at the door
$50 per person
$20 per child (12 and under)

All proceeds will go directly towards Betsy’s medical expenses

For information call 949.498.8566 or email gennieneidermayer@gmail.com

Royal Gold Group

Rare Coins • Precious Metals • New & Estate Jewelry

As Summer arrived in June, Ali Soltani proudly opened up his newest store in Capo Beach on Doheny Park Road. Taking his passion for collecting coins, which started when he was a six-year-old boy, Ali opened his first store in Tustin several years ago. Following in his father’s footsteps, when the opportunity arose for Royal Gold Group to relocate to our coastal community, Ali jumped at the chance. “I was looking for a larger space and I love the beach,’’ says Ali. 

Word of mouth is spreading quickly. He has been so grateful to his new clientele who are sharing their positive experiences working with Ali. Royal Gold Group appraises not only coins, but precious metals, estate jewelry and offers a selection of beautiful new jewelry to their customers. 

Ali shared a recent story when a 92-year-old gentleman walked in with a box of coins. The customer asked Ali what he would give him for his junk silver. As the senior tossed the coins down on the table, Ali politely suggested he may want to be careful with his collection. Ali inspected the coins, and explained that each piece was worth $1,000, and they definitely weren’t junk silver. The customer stated he had shown the coins to three other shops who offered him $20 per coin. Ali discovered that this savvy gentleman was evaluating the integrity of the other coin store owners. He knew the value of his silver and was testing Ali, who he proceeded to do business with that day. 

Ali said unfortunately some of his competitors try to take advantage of the elderly. “I didn’t open my store here in Capo Beach to be dishonest with my clientele. I really do care. My dad is 92. These seniors worked hard to earn and invest in their coins. They deserve to be honestly compensated for their collections,” he added. 

Whether you’d like to start your child with collecting Disneyland and kid-focused coins, or you’d like a private appointment to have your family’s estate jewelry or coin collection appraised, the professionals at Royal Gold Group can assist. Ali summed up our conversation, “We are here to stay. That’s our goal and business model!” 

Royal Gold Group
34291 Doheny Park Rd
Capo Beach (next to post office)
949.426.0901
RoyalGoldGroup.com

Sendero Dental Studio

Something To Smile About

by Victoria Kertz

Imagine a dentist office with cozy, spa-like interiors, soft lighting, and a staff so warm and friendly that upon entering, you gain an instant sense of calm. Sendero Dental Studio offers this and more — a tranquil setting for your next dental appointment at one of the best-reviewed practices in South Orange County. 

Dr. Jeffrey Barrera launched Sendero Dental Studio in Rancho Mission Viejo as an intimate alternative to his existing Rancho Santa Margarita office, a large and very busy location that’s tidied up the teeth of hundreds of local families for decades. While both sites boast state-of-the-art dental equipment, the latest treatments and a knowledgeable staff, the new studio was designed for maximum relaxation and comfort. Sendero’s minimalist décor, in neutral shades of white and grey, feels less like a scene for a root canal and more like the lobby of a luxury retreat. 

Dr. Barrera’s friendly and convenient practice values a patient’s time and his team ensures you’re in and out as efficiently as possible…with a smile. Dozens of 5-star Yelp and Google reviews offer testament to the exceptional level of care. One reviewer wrote, “Dr. Barrera and his staff at Sendero Dental are awesome. It had been a little too long since my last dentist visit and they made me feel super comfortable and explained everything clearly.” 

That’s all part of the Dr. Barrera experience: a prompt, professional appointment with cheerful service and an honest assessment. If you’re in good oral health and no extra work is needed, that’s what you’ll hear. Or, as Dr. Barrera says, “We call it like it is!” 

Dr. Barrera approaches every patient as a member of the family, as does Dr. Tyler Kisling, who recently joined the Sendero Dental Studio. Hailing from Fresno, Dr. Kisling brings eight years of experience and a fresh perspective. After particularly work-intensive treatments, he’s known for calling patients at the end of the day to check in. “Dr. Kisling and I are on the same page,” Dr. Barrera says. 

For some, visiting a dentist, no matter how serene the atmosphere, generates feelings of apprehension. That’s why both offices are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to deliver the best possible outcomes with the least amount of discomfort. Remember “impressions” created with unpalatable trays of green, goopy material? Well, you won’t find those at Dr. Barrera’s offices.

He uses iTero, a laser scanner that creates a virtual model of your teeth in just five minutes, expediting the treatment process. If a crown is required, the fabrication time is reduced from more than two weeks to a mere three to five days. 

With iTero, Dr. Barrera has the capability to show you the interior of your mouth and the positioning of teeth, essentially in real time. The technology allows practitioners to treat patients more precisely and provides before-and-after video simulation of how corrective measures would improve the health of your teeth. 

Patients love the scan because it saves them time, but dentists love iTero’s ability to detect decay, minute chips in teeth, and gum recession. It also enables the office to maintain a chronological record of your oral health as a companion view to traditional x-rays. 

Technology aside, Dr. Barrera knows that superior care and personal interactions make a dentist visit successful, not the equipment. “If we build trusting relationships that last a lifetime, that’s what’s most rewarding to me,” he says. 

If you’re looking for a new dentist to care for your entire family, a second opinion, or referral, schedule a consultation at 949.371.8533. 

Sendero Dental Studio
30901 Gateway Place, Suite F5
Rancho Mission Viejo
949.371.8533
SenderoDental.com

San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival

A highly anticipated, fun-filled weekend is right around the corner! The San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival, sponsored by Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church, returns to San Juan Capistrano for its 9th annual celebration of Greek culture on Saturday and Sunday, September 24th and 25th. The event is chock-full of authentic Greek food and drink, live music, traditional Greek dancing, souvenir shopping at the Greek Bazaar, and a fully-loaded Kids Zone. There will be a raffle drawing for a grand prize vacation for two to Greece! 

Authentic and delicious Greek fare, including favorites such as Gyros, Mediterranean-seasoned Lamb Chops, Souvlaki (kebabs), Spanakopita (savory spinach pastry), Tiropita (layered cheese pastry), Pastitsio (Greek lasagna) and Greek Salads will tempt and tantalize festival attendees. You’ll enjoy handmade Greek delicacies from traditional family recipes, including mouth-watering Baklava, powdered sugar Kourambiethes and honey-dipped Loukoumades (Greek donut holes) along with traditional Greek coffee and refreshing iced coffee Frappés. Debuting this year at Greek Fest, Feta Bites — a lightly breaded and deep fried feta cheese with a marinara dipping sauce. 

Don’t miss the popular “Taverna” with a sports bar twist – equipped with big-screen satellite TVs where guests can enjoy domestic favorites, as well as Greek beer, wine and Ouzo. Stroll through the Festival’s Greek Vendor Marketplace where you’ll find an assortment of unique ingredients (including Greek olive oil, honey, teas, and spices) along with an array of themed souvenirs, gifts, jewelry and books to tempt shoppers of all ages. 

The Greek word “Kefi” means the spirit of joy, fun and a passion for life. You’re sure to feel Kefi as you’re transported to the enchanting country of Greece by the sights, sounds and culinary delights of this fun-packed Festival weekend. Within seconds, the live music and Greek dancing will have you on your feet, expressing your inner-Kefi with shouts of “Opa!” and an unusual desire to break plates (don’t worry… easy-to-follow lessons are provided). The Saint Basil award-winning dance troupes will also perform traditional dances in authentic costumes representing different regions of Greece. 

Hours for the festival are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Parking is free all weekend long. 

For more information on the San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival, please call 949-542-3445, or visit SJCGreekfest.org or the event’s on Facebook and Instagram @SJCGreekFest. 

San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival
San Juan Capistrano Community Center
25925 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano