New Mandarin Garden

by Dina Scaglione

New Mandarin Garden, purveyors of gourmet Chinese cuisine, makes the top of the list for local Asian eateries. Located next to Whole Foods Market in Laguna Niguel, it’s been serving up Cantonese-style specialties and generations-old recipes for nearly 20 years. With each dish made-to-order daily, the restaurant always uses fresh, not frozen, ingredients — never skimping on portions and flavor.

For starters, enjoy classic appetizers like the tender, oversized, pan-fried Potstickers, also known to some as dumplings. Equally oversized are the crispy “East Coast-style“ egg rolls, and for those of you from the East Coast, you will readily appreciate the flavorful difference. The classic Pork Egg Fu Young, made fresh for each order, is generously portioned and amply topped with a thick dark house glaze. The savory Salt and Pepper Fish is thinly sliced and lightly fried, served with vibrant red peppers, shredded cabbage and green onions. For noodle lovers, the Singapore Rice Noodle, filling enough to serve as an entree, features ample chunks of chicken, pork and shrimp, liberally peppered with spicy yellow curry.

Specialty items at New Mandarin Garden include Peking Duck, House Special Beef and Sizzling Black Pepper Filet Mignon. The popular Honey Walnut Shrimp is lightly battered, drizzled with a creamy honey sauce and embellished with crunchy walnuts. For those looking for a lighter meal, New Mandarin Garden’s heart healthy menu includes options like fresh steamed vegetables in a light sauce or a special hot garlic sauce, just garlicky enough to keep things interesting.

A large variety of lunch combinations are offered Monday through Saturday, starting at $9.95. Perfect for two, family-style dinners are also avail-able, and include soup, appetizers and your choice of entree, starting at $19.95. For your next special event, New Mandarin Garden provides a variety of catering options to suit your specific needs. New Mandarin Garden is open Monday through Sunday, with lunch served from 11:30 to 3 p.m. and dinner from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. (9 p.m. on Sundays).

NEW MANDARIN GARDEN
23902 Aliso Creek Rd, Laguna Niguel
949.495.0281 | NewMandarinTakeOut.com

Client Protection Group

by Victoria Kertz

Do you have buyer’s remorse from a timeshare purchase? If you fell in love with a vacation destination and thought a timeshare would be a great way to save money on future trips, chances are you’ve had second thoughts since making that investment. Often, overarching promises and high-pressure sales tactics translate into an underwhelming experience and feelings of regret.

If you’re stuck in a timeshare contract and no longer want the baggage, Client Protection Group, LLC can assist. Whether ownership no longer fits your lifestyle or the financial burden is weighing you down, attempting to get out from under it can be a daunting process. With the help of a professional timeshare elimination service, you can break free. Michael Cromie, founder of Client Protection Group, knows the industry well and his team has successfully negotiated thousands of terminations in a straightforward, transparent, and legal way.

I had the opportunity to speak with Michael about his company and to gain insight about how its services benefit timeshare owners.

Q: How does Client Protection Group  assist owners who are financially bound  under a timeshare contract?

A: Whether a buyer is current or in arrears on a mortgage, we negotiate with the developer to help the client exit the contract. We gather some information, provide it to the developer for review and work toward termination without impacting the client’s credit score in the process.

Q: Does your company help customers sell timeshare units?

A: Unfortunately, selling a timeshare in the secondary market isn’t a viable option. Generally, they have little to no value and owners are left with two choices: enlist a company to help with contract termination or continue down the money pit.

Q: What does Client Protection Group charge?

A: Our fees vary based on the timeshare location, mortgage status, and property desirability. We are happy to provide a free consultation to discuss an owner’s unique set of circumstances to determine the best strategy.

Q: Are you able to assist every timeshare owner?

A: There are specific countries and developers that we aren’t able to negotiate with. We take the time to confirm those details up front and to research the unique aspects of each case before charging a fee.

Q: How long does the process take?

A: It typically takes around six months from beginning to end.

Q: What if someone doesn’t actually own a timeshare, but has questions on behalf of a friend or family member? Can they receive a complimentary consultation?

A: Yes, our customer service team will answer their questions and guide them through the process. We find that many of the inquiries we receive pertain to a caller’s parents. As there aren’t many online resources for exiting a timeshare, we do our best to provide the desired information or to point them in the right direction.

Q: How has COVID-19 affected your business?

A: Business hasn’t slowed and we always accept new clients. All of our documents can be signed electronically and my staff has had the ability to work from home during the shutdown.

Our Costa Mesa office is open again and we have implemented safety measures to keep employees and customers safe. If clients aren’t comfortable coming to the office, we can easily conduct business online and over the phone to accommodate them.

Q: Why should a timeshare owner choose Client Protection Group?

A: We have negotiated thousands of timeshare terminations and guarantee to work on a case until it’s resolved. We pride ourselves on a 100% success rate. Our services are priced competitively and we work quickly. What may take other companies 18 months, we complete in a fraction of the time.

Even if you’re still on the fence about your timeshare, the friendly and knowledgeable staff at Client Protection Group will answer your questions and help you find a solution that best suits your needs. Please visit ClientProtectionGroup.com or call (949) 426-7599 to learn more.

Client Protection Group
(949) 426-7599
ClientProtectionGroup.com

Paddy’s Station

by Dina Scaglione

There’s something about the unpretentious charm of a neighborhood pub… tipping back a sudsy pint and watching a game while chatting casually with like-minded folks. That’s precisely how I’d describe Paddy’s Station, situated alongside the historic train depot in downtown San Juan Capistrano.

In February of this year, new owner David Woodnutt secured the location previously inhabited by The Vintage Steakhouse. He set about to create a relaxed grub pub, reminiscent of his upbringing in Ireland where other ex-pats could also experience a slice of home — sans the grey weather. By relieving the previous fine dining establishment of its heavy window-draped interior, David unearthed the train car station’s natural essence and brought a new light to the property with a genuine, warm-spirited Irish pub feel. Raised in Dublin, the former pilot and real estate professional knows the name of nearly everyone who enters, greeting guests with a lilting Irish accent and unaffected charm.

Opening on April 25, amidst COVID-19’s accompanying eat-in limitations, Paddy’s kicked off with takeout offerings. This spot is far from your fussy, sit-down restaurant and it serves up delicious, reasonably priced Irish fare like bangers and mash, fish and chips and a variety of meat pies with, of course, a large selection of cold beers. The fish and chips are light, crispy and amongst the best you’ll find, made with fresh cod, delicate and flavorful, served with French fries and malt vinegar. The freshly-made meat pies are amply filled with chicken or beef, encapsulated in a buttery pastry shell — soul food that warms the heart.

Music and dancing are integral to Paddy Station’s lively theme with toe-tapping bands performing 3 days a week and solo artists almost daily. Keep an eye out for the soon-to-open red caboose refashioned into a cigar lounge, ready for private bookings any day of the week, noon to midnight. And later this month, join fellow football (soccer as we say in the U.S.) fans, when the British leagues launch their fall season.

When you want to grab a bite, there are clearly plenty of wonderful choices in San Juan Capistrano. When you want to experience tasty comfort food in an enveloping, carefree pub environment, Paddy’s Station is the place to be.

Paddy’s Station
6701 Verdugo Street, Suite B, San Juan Capistrano
949.661.3400
PaddysStation.com

The Awning Company

Scottish Born OC Shade Maker

Family owned and operated, and with more than 20 years of experience in the industry, Scotland born Gary Kerr and his team at The Awning Company have the know-how, experience, and expertise to get your project done right. As a leader in the industry and the preferred vendor for all things awnings in Orange and San Diego Counties, The Awning Company provides nothing less than unparalleled quality and service.

The Awning Company only sells American made products. Whether it’s retractable patio awnings or solar screens, Alumawood Patio Covers, fixed awnings or canopies, customers can take pride in knowing that they’re not only getting the best products, but that they’re also helping American businesses in their efforts to compete in the world market. The Awning Company custom manufactures their shade products in Irvine. They also offer Smart Products to allow you to operate many retractable products directly from your phone.

Claire W. in Mission Viejo commented, “We just had new fabric and awnings replaced by Gary. In addition to their price being the best of three quotes, we were very pleased by how well the job went. They look wonderful!”

It may sound bold, but The Awning Company is so confident in their products that they encourage customers to get at least two to three competing quotes. They beat those written quotes without compromising on service or quality. You will find that their products are far superior. The bottom line: do not pay more for a cheap imported product when you can have a better, custom-made, affordable sun control product manufactured right here in the USA.

With excellent service, great rates, and quality craftsmanship and materials, The Awning Company has a stellar reputation throughout Southern California for delivering value.

The Awning Company
15 Hammond, Suite 308, Irvine
949.769.2485
TheAwningCompanyCA.com

The Coast Vintage Market

Greetings from The Coast Vintage Market

Come visit one of the top-rated Vintage Markets in the U.S.!

Where:
Saddleback College
28000 Marguerite Pkwy
Mission Viejo, CA 92692

When:
Second Sunday of Every Month
From 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Dates in 2020:
September 13
October 11
November 8
December 13

FREE Admission!
FREE Parking!

Facebook.com/thecoastvintagemarket
Instagram.com/thecoastvintagemarket
Email: thecoastvintagemarket@gmail.com

Fairmont Schools

Established 1953

Leveraging Lessons Learned … and Igniting Innovation
The landscape of education evolved once again on July 17 when the governor issued a directive concerning when Orange County schools would be able to reopen with students on campus. While many schools struggle to keep up with the rapid changes brought about by COVID-19, the leaders of Fairmont Schools feel their five campuses — including the new preschool through grade 12 location in San Juan Capistrano — are uniquely positioned to pivot and thrive in this challenging time.

Experience Plus Innovation
Voted Orange County’s Best Private School for five consecutive years, Fairmont has been a leader in private school education since its founding in 1953. Nearly 70 years of experience equates to many lessons learned. When the winds of education shift, as they are right now, no school is better-equipped to respond than Fairmont. As Orange County’s largest and oldest school group, Fairmont is poised to provide its innovative and individualized learning experience to students, regardless of the method of delivery.

Ready for Remote Learning
Building upon an already strong remote program, Fairmont has invested heavily in technology and training to elevate the level of instruction it can provide to students who will be learning from home this fall. Small classes, differentiated learning, and rigorous curriculum are part of its “tried and true” formula for producing successful students of all ability levels. It’s a formula that has served students well for decades, and one that has been integrated into the school’s remote learning program.

Another factor that distinguishes Fairmont is the lengths its teachers and staff go toward caring for the overall well-being of students. “This has always been important, but perhaps never more so than it is right now,” says Chad Jackson, Fairmont’s president. “Supporting our students’ social and emotional needs is key to our remote instruction.”

Prepared to Reopen
When Orange County schools are cleared to have students return, Fairmont will open the doors of its new San Juan Capistrano campus with a plan that ensures safety is paramount and students come first. At that time, Fairmont will be offering in-person instruction — five days a week and full days with experienced teachers, further differentiating itself from almost every other school in South Orange County.

Fairmont’s teachers and administrators have been hard at work researching best practices for reopening, from sanitation and logistics to teacher training and technology. The school’s Reopening Task Force continues to consult extensively with medical and education experts, while monitoring local, state and federal guidelines to ensure its campuses can open safely. That plan includes everything from “the basics” (such as the use of social distancing, face coverings, and rigorous sanitation) to incorporating physical enhancements (such as the installation of touchless restroom fixtures).

“We are living through very challenging times, but Fairmont’s focus hasn’t shifted,” says David Jackson, Fairmont’s Chairman. “Our students come first, and our teachers and staff have been working tirelessly to ensure everyone’s return to school exceeds expectations — regardless of whether a child learns from home or in the classroom.”

Fairmont is now enrolling preschool through 12th grade students for the 2020-21 school year across its family of schools in Anaheim, Anaheim Hills, North Tustin and San Juan Capistrano. To learn more, please visit FairmontSchools.com or call 714.234.2771 to schedule a tour.

ANAHEIM • ANAHEIM HILLS • NORTH TUSTIN • SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
714.234.2771 • FAIRMONTSCHOOLS.COM

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The Foundations program methodology is to move past the traditional concept of simply managing the symptoms of learning disabilities and, instead, address the root cause of these challenges. Based on the concept of neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to change, heal, and grow in response to targeted training), each day, students perform cognitive exercises that have been scientifically proven to strengthen weak cognitive capabilities. In other words, the goal of Foundations is to transform the brain, establishing capabilities that did not exist and, thus, begin to instill a newfound confidence and a love of learning. By strengthening cognitive capacities, students are able to work through tasks which were once incredibly challenging for them. In addition to its scientific approach to cognitive improvement, Foundations includes state-certified reading and mathematics programs. When combined with the cognitive exercises, these programs have helped many of its students achieve dramatic improvement in reading, writing, and math.

INDIVIDUALIZED PROGRAM THAT PROVIDES INCLUSION IN SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
For the 2020-2021 school year, Foundations will have one multi-grade elementary class, one junior high class, and one high school class. Each classroom will have a student-teacher ratio of 4:1. Each student is assessed and works at a pace and level that is appropriate for his or her particular needs. In order to ensure that students are connected socially to others in their peer group, Foundations is located on the campus of a large private school, which allows students to attend recess, lunch, and enrichment/elective classes (P.E., art, music, etc.) with mainstream students in their grade. They also have the opportunity to play on sports teams and to participate in extra-curricular school activities offered at its partner school, such as choir, dance, cheer, clubs, etc. The high school students are offered the option to pursue a high school diploma, or to participate in a Certificate of Completion program.

PARTNER SCHOOL
Foundations is located on the San Juan Capistrano campus of the prestigious Fairmont Schools. The beautiful campus, spanning 66,000 square feet, includes two educational wings full of classroom space, playgrounds, gymnasium, music room, science labs, and more.

For more information, or to schedule a tour visit FoundationsCognitive.org.

Foundations Cognitive Schools
26333 Oso Road
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
949.482.0383
www.FoundationsCognitive.org

Conveniently located on the South end of San Clemente, Our Savior’s Lutheran School (OSLS) is a developmental, play-based, Reggio-inspired, Christian Preschool and Infant Center (soon to open). Our Savior’s is a close-knit family that understands and values exceptional education, equipping children to be positive members of their community.

OSLS is committed to excellence through a creative and energizing curriculum, with a strong social, emotional, and Christ-centered foundation. Curriculum is modeled around Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences. Its highly qualified and inspirational staff provide a quality educational experience. All OSLS families receive constant communication regarding their child’s growth, supported by assessments and progress reports along with parent-teacher conferences. This partnership facilitates an extension of the child’s day into the home and bridges the learning opportunities both at school and beyond.

Our Savior’s Lutheran School provides a unique opportunity for children to be engaged in a develop-mentally appropriate environment with a child-centered approach. The preschool team designs their curriculum and lesson plans starting with the California Preschool Learning Foundations, customizing instruction based on the child’s individualized goals and needs. These developmentally appropriate practices and classroom experiences intentionally foster exposure to the world around the child and capture the many moments of curiosity. Through-out the day, OSLS teachers guide student learning individually and in groups to explain, educate, and empower the children, encouraging them to ask questions and explore their learning environment. They understand that every child develops at their own pace while being committed to continuous growth and excellence in all levels of early childhood education. With a long-term education in mind, OSLS’s most important goal is to foster and encourage a love of learning.

To find out more about Our Savior’s Lutheran School and the new Infant Center opening soon, please call the school at 949.492.6165 or email the Director, Joan Lundbohm, at (j.lundbohm@oursaviorsschool.net) to schedule a tour.

Our Savior’s Lutheran School
200 Avenida San Pablo
San Clemente, CA 92672
949.492.6165
www.OurSaviorsSchool.net

Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) has spent the last three months building a reopening plan for the fall with the priority of providing an excellent education while ensuring the health and safety of CUSD students and school employees.

On July 17, Governor Newsom announced that all schools within Orange County are required to open the 2020-21 school year using online learning ONLY. Governor Newsom made this a requirement for all counties on the state’s coronavirus monitoring list. CUSD will reopen its classrooms and campuses when the updated guidelines allow for schools to safely do so.

The centerpiece of CUSD’s trustee-approved reopening plan is a robust, consistent, and engaging curriculum that aligns with the District’s core values and can be successfully delivered both in a traditional school setting and online. CUSD’s Board of Trustees approved a comprehensive online curriculum that has been vetted, used consistently with success, and delivers the District’s core values of rigor, engagement, consistency, and flexibility.

K–5 OPTIONS WHEN OC IS REMOVED FROM THE MONITORING LIST:

• Students can spend 100 percent of their school time engaging in online learning or attending class on campus, or they can split their time between home and school.

SECONDARY OPTIONS — 6–12 WHEN OC IS REMOVED FROM THE MONITORING LIST:

• Students can choose 100 percent online learning or spend half their time on campus with a flipped classroom format utilizing independent study. CUSD will ensure juniors and seniors continue to have access to the resources they need to increase their options for post-secondary life after high school.

This plan provides an enriched learning curriculum compared to the distance learning initiative that was implemented quickly in response to the pandemic this past spring. CUSD continues its commitment to excellence in curriculum and instruction. The 2020-21 school year will include an integration of mental health, emotional support, and social emotional learning.

CUSD will also continue to foster cultural diversity in partnership with the District’s Cultural Proficiency Task Force, established last fall, and with our students, families, and staff.

Although CUSD is navigating unprecedented times, it remains committed to academic rigor, consistency, and providing an engaging and flexible online and classroom educational experience for all students, while protecting the safety and security of families and employees.

Visit capousd.org for reopening details.

CAPISTRANO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
33122 Valle Road
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
949.234.9200
www.CAPOUSD.org