MemorialCare Medical Group

Breaking Ground at Sendero Marketplace

by Veronica Badzey

MemorialCare Medical Group is dedicated to providing the best value in exceptional health care to thousands of patients throughout Orange and Los Angeles Counties. This fall, it will be expanding its reach even further with the opening of of a new facility in the Sendero Marketplace, at the corner of Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway. 

“Our goal,” explains Laurie Sicaeros, Chief Operating Officer of MemorialCare Medical Foundation, “is to be the preferred providers for the families of Rancho Mission Viejo, as well as nearby Ladera Ranch.”

Set to open in Spring of 2019, a two-story, state-of-the-art medical center featuring comprehensive healthcare with an emphasis on wellness and preventative care will be constructed within Rancho Mission Viejo. The 26,000 square foot facility will also provide walk-in services for those who need immediate access to medical care without an appointment. Plans include a staff of six primary care physicians, including family practitioners, pediatricians, and specialists in internal medicine, pulmonology, orthopedics, and asthma/allergy, as well as a full complement of nurses, medical assistants, and front office personnel. In partnership with Saddleback Medical Center, the new location will offer a wide range of specialty services, including: asthma consultations, orthopedic services, cardiac testing, lab services, a breast center, EMT diagnostics, EKG tests, digital X-ray, and ultrasound, making them a one-stop shop for healthcare in the surrounding communities. 

In support of an active, outdoor lifestyle favored by many local residents, MemorialCare will also be partnering with the Ranch Life community association, by holding physician and dietician-led health education classes on a variety of topics such as diet, exercise, and asthma, as well as sponsoring Ranch Life community events.   

The interim location in Sendero Marketplace will be opening November 2017, while construction on the new building gets underway. It will provide many of the same services planned for the permanent location, including the Ranch Life education classes.  With a staff of three primary care physicians, (two family practitioners and one internal medicine specialist), as well as two medical assistants, an LVN, and front office staff, the temporary office will focus on providing well-rounded care, along with walk-in services. Office hours will be extended to six days a week, Monday through Saturday, to meet the needs of the growing community.

Patients at both the interim and permanent locations gain access to the broader MemorialCare network through its interactive EMR (electronic medical records) portal, myChart, powered by Epic Systems software. MyChart streamlines patient records into a one-chart system which is utilized by all MemorialCare hospitals, urgent care facilities and offices, seamlessly integrating communication between doctors and specialists at separate locations. Patients can log in to myChart from any digital device to view their medical history, schedule appointments online, and request prescription refills. If a patient arrives at a MemorialCare location needing emergency services, staff calls ahead to the hospital, apprising them of the situation through the EMR portal.

It’s not only technology that makes MemorialCare exceptional. Over the years, it’s evolved to meet the needs of the community and now serves a combined total of 660,000 annually through multiple locations in Orange and Los Angeles Counties, with 85% of urgent care and walk-in cases transitioning to permanent primary care patients. The high rate of patient retention attests to the quality of care provided by an exemplary staff of compassionate doctors, nurses, and support staff. Many MemorialCare doctors elect to live in the communities in which they work, participating in community events and taking the time to develop meaningful relationships with the patients they serve.

“It’s been truly inspiring,” says Laurie, “to see MemorialCare continue to grow and evolve to meet the needs of the local communities. I’ve been here for 20 years, and I’m continually amazed by our caring and compassionate doctors and staff.”

MemorialCare Medical Group accepts most major insurances, including Medicare. Look for the opening of the interim Sendero Marketplace location next to Gelson’s in November, with extended office hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.  to 2 p.m. 

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Dana Point Oktoberfest

Saturday, October 7th from 12 p.m. until 7 p.m.

Dana Point’s 4th annual Oktoberfest captures the true spirit of the season, combining German food, music and dancing with a bit of fun in the sun. This time-honored folk festival, which originated in Munich in 1810, delivers the Bavarian traditions you’d expect with a California-style twist!

“We’re here to celebrate!” enthuses Master of Ceremonies Peter Melton, or the “Pieter Meister,” as he is affectionately called throughout the event. “Plan to come early and stay late. We always have a rockin’ good time!”

The free, family-friendly event is produced by Eventwerks in conjunction with the City of Dana Point, and has been growing in popularity since its inception three years ago. Last year, thousands attended the festival, partying until the end of the day and drinking up every last bit of tasty German beer. This year, the same tempting array of authentic German Bratwurst, Knockwurst, German potatoes, sauerkraut, sweet treats, pretzels (the Pieter Meister’s favorite), and of course, plenty of beer – including at least 15 varieties of premium German and American brew, plus wine and non-alcoholic beverages for the kids, will be on hand.

Kona Brewing Company, along with Munich’s Famous Spaten Beer, will take center stage as sponsors of the 2017 celebration. Admission to Oktoberfest is free. Your first beer comes in a 16 oz. commemorative mug for $20; refills are $10. Several purchase options are available for those who prefer wine.

It wouldn’t be Oktoberfest without festive music! The Kalifornia Krauts, one of OC’s favorite German bands, will liven things up with a unique Oktoberfest Polka-Billy musical style. Games include musical chairs for the kids, the hilarious and now-famous sausage toss, the ever-popular chicken dance, a sauerkraut eating contest, stein holding, and beer chugging. The festivities also feature sing-a-long songs and a dance party, lending this traditional German folk festival a distinctly American flavor.

“Part of what’s made our Oktoberfest event such a success,” shares Peter, “is how we’ve combined German tradition with good, old American fun. I’ve had people come up to me, even traditional people who’ve been to Oktoberfest celebrations for years, and tell me they prefer ours greatly.”

Sea Terrace Park in Dana Point provides a stunning venue, with gorgeous ocean views of Salt Creek Beach, fresh sea breezes, grassy park areas where the kids can run around and play, and an abundance of picnic tables. For a close-up view of the stage and the Pieter Meister’s crazy brand of German-American fun, arrive early to get the best table. Many attendees come dressed in costume, but if you happen to forget your lederhosen, vendors will be selling gear and souvenirs on-site.

Most of all, come prepared to have a good time. Whether you’re German or American, have attended Oktoberfest every year or if this is your first one, you will find something to enjoy. Starting with the playful opening ceremony and tapping of the keg, the day promises a boisterous good time with family and friends, and hilarity as revelers dance, sing, and toast to the bounty of the harvest season. As the Pieter Meister says, “The dance party at the end, as it’s getting dark, is worth the trip alone!”

Dana Point’s Oktoberfest runs from 12 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 7th. Free parking is available on Niguel Road and Stonehill Drive, and on Pacific Coast Highway along the park. Salt Creek Beach offers parking for a fee, or if you are feeling a little VIP(ish), you can always valet at the Monarch Beach Resort. Uber and Lyft are good options and make sense after a day of taking in Oktoberfest. For more information on parking, visit the website at DanaPointOktoberfest.com.

180blu

a view to DINE for

by Dina Scaglione

Poised on a cliff 150 feet above Salt Creek Beach is one of Orange County’s most stunning views and the picturesque home of 180blu. Aptly named for its unobstructed views of the Pacific, the restaurant’s sprawling, open-air balcony seduces guests the moment they enter and the comfortable ambiance and delectable fare keeps them coming back for more.

Located in The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, 180blu delivers the same five-star service the hotel is known for, in a more relaxed setting than you might expect. With inviting high-top tables and swallow-you-up sofas, it’s the perfect destination for lunch, dinner or drinks, but often a difficult one to leave.

Come for the sushi, small plates and a glass of wine, but your taste buds will beg you to stay and enjoy a plethora of unique and tasty entrées. Comfort foods like grilled cheese on rustic bread offer a sophisticated version of the American classic that was always a childhood favorite.

Even non-sushi fans will fall in love with the namesake 180 Sushi Roll, featuring avocado, cream cheese and cucumber topped with charred salmon. I was personally smitten with the lobster tacos, complete with large chunks of tender lobster, avocado, and black bean salsa, served on small flour tortillas with a delightful de arbol sauce. And don’t miss the bite-size-but-big-in-flavor spicy tuna rolls, on a cylinder of toasted rice and topped with a tangy eel sauce.

Another scrumptious dish worth writing home about is the delicious pan-seared shrimp. Glazed with a blend of Piloncillo, an unrefined Mexican sugar, and a spicy peanut sauce topped with cilantro and candied pepitas. You’ll be amazed by the slightly sweet, slightly spicy, but immensely flavorful taste. If you’re looking for a light dinner with a decadent side, try the warmed spinach salad with loads of sautéed lobster and wisps of crispy sweet potatoes. I capped off the evening with 180blu’s famous churros, served alongside coffee ice cream on a crumbled cookie bed, anchored by a golden trail of caramel. Light and cinnamon-y, it’s the ultimate way to end any meal.

Talented 180blu mixologists serve up hand-crafted cocktails and signature drinks, along with an extensive wine list and a variety of beers. Live music is featured Thursday through Saturday, from 6 to 9 p.m., weather permitting. The sushi bar is also offered Thursday through Saturday, from 6 to 9 p.m. And if you feel chilly, the friendly staff offers cozy blankets to keep you warm and toasty.

180blu  |  One Ritz-Carlton Drive  |  Dana Point  |  RitzCarlton.com

The Vein Clinic at Elite Medizin

ANNE LUHOAN, MD, FACS, ABVLM, RPhS

How do your legs look? How are your legs feeling?  Do you have heavy, achy, itchy or restless legs at the end of the day? Do you see bulging veins across your legs or feet? Have you noticed unsightly spider 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. Why suffer needlessly when treatment is just around the corner at Dr. Anne Luhan’s office in Dana Point. Her clinical expertise focuses on the full spectrum of treating venous disorders and most procedures are covered by Medicare and major insurance companies.

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.

Once a patient learns that they are a candidate for the cutting edge treatments that deliver maximum results with minimal pain, they are elated to finally have a solution to their nagging problem. Dr. Luhan is able to offer patients an in-office procedure requiring no anesthesia, minimal downtime and no scarring.

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.

On the cosmetic side, Elite Medizin and Veins is offering the full scope of vein treatments including leg, face and hand veins and uses the latest ultrasound and vein light guided methods to treat spider veins with optimal results.

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

The Vein Clinic at Elite Medizin
34052 La Plaza, Suite 102
Dana Point
949.388.4800  •  EliteMedizin.com

Frank Mogavero, DDS

ORTHODONTICS • FACIAL ORTHOPEDICS

For 27 years, Dr. Frank Mogavero has been creating big, beautiful smiles. Specializing in orthodontics and facial orthopedics, Dr. Frank, as patients affectionately call him, sees himself as more than an orthodontist. Over the course of his career, he’s shaped the gorgeous smiles of over 10,000 patients, and has also witnessed the tremendous boost in confidence that often accompany his results.

Studies show that people with nicer smiles get better jobs, are thought of as more intelligent, and receive more opportunities in life,” shares Dr. Frank. He also emphasizes that, for him, it’s always been about the people he treats in his practice. “People are not a procedure,” he adds. 

Dr. Mogavero designed his fun, action sports-themed office in San Clemente to curb the apprehensiveness that can sometimes be associated with a trip to the orthodontist. Decked out with an authentic Mammoth Mountain chair lift, sports photography, and famous athletes’ autographs – many of whom are former patients, he’s captured a hip vibe that appeals to patients of all ages. Dr. Frank’s reputation has also attracted a high-profile clientele of young athletes and personalities who appreciate the value of a dazzling smile when they appear on TV and compete in the national and international X-Games.

Using the popular Invisalign^® system since 2000, Dr. Mogavero was one of its first providers to treat patients with this new technology. These “invisible braces” utilize clear plastic aligners to straighten teeth instead of traditional hardware.

Dr. Mogavero’s love for kids extends into the community, where he supports schools through his mouth guard program for local high school and youth football teams, sponsors major fundraisers, and can often be seen cheering on his patients at sporting events and the X Games. Dr. Mogavero holds honors degrees in Biomedical Engineering and Dentistry from UCLA, is a Board Certified Orthodontist, and has taught for five years in the Orthodontics Department at USC. Dr. Frank, his wife Anna, and their five children reside in San Clemente.

Frank Mogavero, DDS
1031 Avenida Pico, Suite 101
San Clemente
949.373.3737  •  SyncYourSmile.com
Facebook: Mogavero Orthodontics
Instagram: @drfrankm
Twitter: @drfrankm

Orange Coast Women’s Medical Group

A LIFELONG RESOURCE FOR HEALTH

A leader in the field of women’s health, Orange Coast Women’s Medical Group (OCWMG) is consistently at the forefront of providing the highest level of care to its patients.

This OBGYN practice not only demonstrates exceptional service in the field of comprehensive obstetrical and gynecological care, OCWMG also offers onsite bone density screening, diagnostic ultrasounds, screening mammography, phlebotomy, weight and nutrition management, plus pellet therapy for bio-identical hormone replacement. The practice has added specific services directed at the needs of patients such as the MonaLisa Touch for restoring vaginal health, the only FDA approved treatment for the changes associated with menopause. The physicians are also at the forefront of advanced surgical techniques including minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopic surgery to treat the full spectrum of female gynecological conditions. The extent of the menu of services beyond OBGYN care makes OCWMG a very unique practice in the arena of women’s healthcare and wellness.

There are three conveniently accessible locations to serve the residents of South Orange County. These offices are located in Irvine, Laguna Hills, and Talega/San Clemente. The practice’s highly esteemed physicians have dispersed to different locations to meet the needs of their patients in these communities. Doctor’s Angelika Priestley, Norene Norris-Walsh, Mary O’Toole, Ann Marie Raffo, and Elizabeth Johnson have made San Clemente and its surrounding cities a primary focus of their practice. Women may also visit these physicians at their Laguna Hills office.

Visit www.ocwmg.com for physician bios, appointments, healthcare resources, and questions for the advice nurse. OCWMG accepts most insurance plans including PPO plans, POS plans, EPO plans, Medicare, and Tricare. They also accept all HMO plans through Monarch Healthcare and Covered California exchange plans.

Orange Coast Women’s Medical Group
Three convenient locations
San Clemente  •  Laguna Hills  •  Irvine
949.829.5500  •  OCWMG.com

Coast Dermatology

GLENN GOLDBERG, BOARD-CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST

Dr. Glenn I. Goldberg, Board Certified Dermatologist, established his dermatology practice in Laguna Beach in 1989, and has been there ever since. His practice rapidly grew through his reputation in the community and among other physicians as an excellent clinical dermatologist and highly skilled surgeon. Dr. Goldberg offers over 29 years of expert experience as a board certified dermatologist, while remaining on the cutting edge of new developments in the field of dermatology. His approachability, confidence and caring nature make it truly a joy to have him as your dermatologist.

“We pride ourselves on being a state-of-the art dermatology practice, offering only the very best in dermatologic surgery and cosmetic treatments,” says Dr. Glenn Goldberg, founder of Coast Dermatology and Laser Surgery Center. Patient education is paramount to the patient visit experience. “Our patients will receive the highest level of care and will be supplied with the knowledge they need to treat their skin problem, understand the signs of skin cancers and protect and rejuvenate their skin,” shares
Dr. Goldberg.

Dr. Goldberg is proud to have Dr. Farah “Bobby” Awadalla as his associate. Dr. Awadalla joined the practice 3 years ago. He is a fellowship trained, Board Certified Mohs surgeon and performs skin cancer surgery and expert repairs in our dedicated Mohs surgery suite.

“Our mission is to be the center of excellence in the art and science of dermatology and skin rejuvenation,” says Dr. Goldberg. We offer skin tightening procedures and laser treatments to improve skin tone and texture and to minimize the appearance of sun damage, brown spots, aging skin and acne. We also provide sclerotherapy vein treatments and laser hair removal. The most popular procedures such as Botox^®, Dysport^® and dermal fillers like Juvederm^®, Restylane^®, Radiesse^®, Sculptra^® and Voluma^® are more effective and affordable than ever.

“We strive to produce an excellent patient visit experience while offering the latest safe and proven advancements in the field of dermatology,” says Dr. Goldberg.

Coast Dermatology & Laser Center
31852 Coast Hwy., Ste. 300
Laguna Beach
949.499.1389  •  GlennGoldbergSkinDr.com

Seaside Skin Care

SCOT JONES, MD

San Clemente locals are kick-starting a beautiful holiday season with the latest in skincare advancements at Seaside Skin Care. The local staple for medical grade skin therapies and products has enjoyed incredible growth this year due to loyal clients and new visitors looking for customized care and noticeable natural results in a relaxed, friendly environment.

With its recent growth, Seaside Skin Care has extended its services to include the latest in laser and lifting advancements (Pearl Fractional, IPL, Laser Genesis, Ultherapy, and more) and leading injectables such as Botox, Juvederm, Vollure, Voluma, Volbella, Belotero, Radiesse and Kybella. While the products and services continue to evolve, the business stays true to its personalized, warm and family-run atmosphere. 

Seaside Skin Care was founded by Dr. Scot Jones who has served as a local emergency room physician for over 30 years. Jones has built his career upon a high standard — and passion for — quality patient care. Jones has hand-selected the staff at Seaside Skin Care, which includes a team of highly trained registered nurses and medical estheticians. His daughter Kiley, son Josh, and daughter-in-law Kiara help run the day-to-day operations, ensuring that all clients receive an outstanding level of service with the comfortable, beach-town touch for which San Clemente is known.

The team at Seaside is united in the focus to treat damaged skin and prevent further damage from occurring – providing beautiful and customized results. Clients at Seaside enjoy the latest solutions in treating aging, acne, hyperpigmentation and other common skin issues. The team at Seaside offers complimentary consultations and devises customized treatment plans – most commonly including a blend of in-office medical treatments, spa treatments such as HydraFacials, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and a tailored at-home regimen leveraging the best in medical-grade skincare products.

Seaside Skin Care is now offering a variety of holiday specials for a more radiant, stand-out season. For those seeking stocking stuffers or pamper-focused holiday presents, the med spa offers gift cards and packages sure to please. Don’t miss Seaside’s biggest event of the year, with free treatments and raffle prizes, at its 7-year anniversary celebration on Saturday, November 4th, 2017.

Pop into Seaside today for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you’re looking for a more youthful appearance, a path toward aging prevention or va-va-voom tightening, lifting, and plumping, Seaside will deliver maximum results with comfort, care, and a touch of San Clemente cool.

Seaside Skin Care
212 N. El Camino Real
San Clemente
949.276.2777 •  SeasideSkinCare.com

Monarch Veterinary Hospital

GLENN CRAFT, DVM AND KELLY ALCALA, DVM

Dr. Glenn Craft and his wife, Lisa, endeavored to birth a new veterinary practice when they returned from Thailand where they served with CVM (Christian Veterinary Mission/World Concern) — an NGO which provided holistic, sustainable community development for the poorest of the poor in rural Thailand and Laos. Their goal was to establish an exceptional veterinary care facility without losing the warm, loving compassionate touch. Monarch Veterinary Hospital opened in September 2002 and has grown into a 2-doctor hospital over the past 15 years.

Dr. Kelly Alcala first worked at MVH in 2006 on the day the Craft’s son Ethan was born and they needed a substitute doctor on short notice. Since then she worked part time and then in 2015 became a full-time Associate. Dr. Alcala and Dr. Craft are very like-minded in that they endeavor to embrace the best medical practices but selflessly spend the time and effort needed to communicate well with the pet owners so that strong relationships are maintained.

Several key team members at MVH have over 15 years of professional experience and some have been with Dr. Craft for over 10 years. The addition of a new Practice Manager early this year as the practice is growing helps keep the teamwork at an optimum. The goal at Monarch Veterinary Hospital is to deliver a warm, personalized experience that exceeds the client’s expectations on every visit. The team is firmly committed to doing just that and takes real pride providing the best healthcare for the pets as possible while listening carefully to the concerns of the pet owners and making sure all questions are answered.

Drs. Craft and Alcala have established strong working relationships with carefully chosen specialists in south Orange County, including expert STAT ultrasound service and cardiology services with mobile specialists who provide those services on site at MVH.

Monarch Veterinary Hospital offers the expanse of veterinary medicine from wellness checkups and dental care, to internal medicine, dermatology, therapeutic laser therapy, pain management and general surgeries. The hospital is nestled among the hills of south Laguna Niguel on Niguel Road in Clubhouse Plaza in a residential area filled with pet owners who love and care for their furry friends like members of the family. Local pet lovers truly appreciate a facility like Monarch Veterinary Hospital that not only provides exceptional healthcare, but creates long-lasting, trusting relationships with their clients and treats them like family.

Monarch Veterinary Hospital
31271 Niguel Road, Suite E
Laguna Niguel
949.443.1466  •  MonarchVet.com