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

The Cardboard Classic & Dinghy Dash

Saturday, March 5, 2022 – Baby Beach, Dana Point

The Cardboard Classic is free to the public and runs from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Baby Beach: 34451 Ensenada Pl., Dana Point Harbor.  The event features a cardboard boat building contest, music, celebrity emcee entertainment, food, ‘business barge’ display and public voting, and of course… the Dinghy Dash cardboard boat races!  Winning teams are awarded hand-made plaques designed by our local Boys & Girls Club kids.  These kids are recipients of our educational boating scholarships and they create the awards to show their gratitude.  The Classic is an awesome family event to join or spectate.  Who knew cardboard and duct tape could be so much fun!

Westwind Sailing
949.492.3035
westwindsailing.com

Winter Fantasy

A Sawdust Art & Craft Festival Event

Winter Fantasy is open from November 20th through December 19th, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mark your calendars because tickets go on sale Monday, November 1st!

Open five weekends, plus Black Friday, November 26th. Winter Fantasy is a one-of-a-kind holiday art festival that offers a festive shopping experience. Shop handcrafted art by 150 artists and makers in an enchanting winter wonderland with thousands of lights and decorations, falling snow, three stages of live music, community performances, carolers, puppeteers, festival holiday classes, and daily visits with Santa Claus.

Artists
Shop handcrafted gifts of art from 150 international artists and makers!
View Artists

Holiday Festivities
Have your photo taken with Santa daily and visit him at the annual Breakfast with Santa and the LB Fire Department, held on December 12th. Additional festivities include falling snow, carolers, marionette puppet shows, balloon artistry and magic acts.
Schedule

Music
Three stages of entertainment and roaming carolers offer a variety of holiday-themed music.
Schedule

Pop-Up Festival Classes
Hands-on demo booths feature winter-themed pop-up art and craft classes for all ages! Most are complimentary.
Schedule

Food & Drink
Enjoy hot beverages, libations, and a variety of tasty meals from seven concession stands.
Concessions

Pollenators

High school student Charlotte and her friends created a charity organization to repurpose wedding flowers called Pollenaters. They collect the flowers that are typically thrown away after a wedding, rearrange them into smaller arrangements and then donate them to others. Each arrangement comes with a card like this to thank the donors.

The Pollenaters have distributed joy to hundreds of recipients including residents of assisted living facilities and women’s shelters, as well as firefighters, first responders, teachers and Marine families. You can learn more about them at www.pollenaters.org and @pollenaters on Instagram. You can get in touch with Charlotte at pollenaters@gmail.com.

Eden and London Move Onward

Here’s Something To Talk About. What would you do if you were told you have a terminal disease without a cure?

MEET EDEN + LONDON

Mother-Daughter Survivors On A Mission… Moving Onward.

“You know all those things you always wanted to do? You should go do them.”

Eden and London have been living by this mantra ever since Eden was diagnosed with stage IV cancer in February of 2019. With a prognosis of a year left to live, this single Mom and her 10-year-old daughter decided to move ONWARD. Eden and London’s accomplishments through their own battle is a true representation of survivors with a mission. Over the past two years, Eden has endured traumatic cancer treatment and the medical bills that follow. Being immune compromised, she was homebound through the pandemic. Putting safety first, she chose to homeschool London, and with a lot of time for reflection, Eden and London put forth a plan to make their bucket list dreams come true. As the world slowly moves forward, it’s time for this Mother-Daughter team (A.K.A “The Unicorns”) to make their dreams a reality and move . . . ONWARD.

Sometimes London and I laugh about what was worse, homeschooling fourth grade math, or chemotherapy.” – Eden

Eden Pays It Forward To The Cancer Community

Eden Feeley and her daughter, London Feeley, photographed a month after her diagnosis of Stage IV triple-negative breast cancer in March 2019. Photo: Courtesy of Optimistic Expressions

Eden is on mission to give back to the cancer community by providing a pay it forward photography service called, Optimistic Expressions. For every portrait session purchased, an additional portrait session is donated to a woman living with cancer. Born a third generation model and stylist, Eden inherited a strong foundation in the fashion industry for being innovative and highly detailed. For over 25 years she has dedicated her passion on set, conceptualizing and directing behind the scenes embracing the limitless creativity a photo shoot can offer. Eden’s art direction through her photographer’s lens is positively engaging and comforting. She presents an encouraging energy for each individual’s life experience to be captured.

“The heart of Optimistic Expressions is in the name; we bring an optimistic, loving feeling to the women we photograph living with cancer.” – Eden

“Today was a day I will never forget. Thank you Optimistic Expressions from the bottom of my heart for making it possible for me.” – Dorianna – (Stage IV Cancer Survivor)

London Writes A Book For Children With Cancer Fighting Mommies.

London is currently writing an uplifting children’s book featuring Mr. Sour Puss (a very grumpy cat), Mommy, London, and their dog CoCo. The book is a refreshing outlook through London’s eyes encouraging children and their cancer fighting Mommies to find humor during a not so funny time. When London was asked what she wanted to do for her summer break she said, “Travel in a van with my Mommy, while writing my book.” With only 5 weeks left of homeschooling, Eden and London quickly put together their creative minds and launched a FUNdraiser. Their goal is to raise money to publish London’s book and to buy a van so London can document their Mother-Daughter roadtrip adventures.

One of London’s favorite quotes from her book is when she was learning about breast cancer awareness at school and she asked Eden…”Mommy, do you have BREATH cancer?”

Eden and London’s inspirational story as a courageous Mother and Daughter team has touched so many hearts, and what better way to create a legacy of memories for London to cherish forever? As Eden continues to fight the odds, her fuel for survival is mothering London and giving back to the cancer community. Their humbling journey should be a continued reminder to all of us how precious life is.

As the world slowly moves forward, it’s time for these Unicorns to make their dreams a reality and move ONWARD…IN A VAN.

To Contact Eden + London please email eden@enthehouse.com or call 310-625-2471

You can also follow their adventures on Instagram @onwardinavan

The Awning Company

Gary Kerr

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 County, 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, fixed awnings, or even retractable sunscreens, 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.

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 other quotes. Then they beat those written quotes without compromising on service or quality. You will find that their products are far superior and less expensive to what their competitors are offering. The bottom line is do not pay more for a cheap imported product when you can have a better, custom made, sun control product made right here in the USA at a lower price than anyone in Orange County.

Gary Kerr stated, “We appreciate all our loyal customers. Many longtime customers have moved homes over the years and they call us to create the perfect shade solution at their new home. We have been busy this past year making our client’s homes more comfortable and livable during COVID-19. I welcome the opportunity to assist you with any awning, shade or canopy needs!”

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
16811 Hale Ave, Suite E, Irvine
949.769.2485
https://theawningcompanyca.com/.com

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel Contributes More Than $83,500 in Support of Veterans

The oceanfront resort continues to raise funds and awareness of The Veterans Initiative of Canine Companions for Independence.

Continuing its unwavering commitment to giving back to charities that change lives, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is pleased to announce that through the net proceeds from the 2017 Yappy Hour season and the support of several major donors, more than $83,500 has been donated to The Veterans Initiative of Canine Companions for Independence.

“It’s truly incredible seeing our community come together to raise vital funds and awareness for Canine Companions,” said Bruce Brainerd, general manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. “On behalf of the Ladies and Gentlemen of the resort, we are beyond thankful for the outpouring of support from our friends, neighbors and generous supporters year after year.”

Click here for a selection of photos from the 2017 Yappy Hour season.

Canine Companions recognizes the urgent and growing need for programs that provide support to veterans with disabilities. Many of the brave men and women returning home from combat with disabling injuries experience a litany of new challenges. Often, they face difficult transitions back to civilian life as well as uncertain futures with new disabilities. Canine Companions assistance dogs can help veterans regain independence, pride and hope. Beyond much-needed physical assistance, the love, loyalty and positivity of a canine partner can make a profound, lasting impact on someone dealing with difficult emotions that are hard to communicate. To date, Canine Companions has served 257 veterans, with 37 active teams from the Southwest Region.  Visit cci.org to learn more.

Monarch Beach Market Gives Back to the Community

Specialty Market Features Gourmet Food, Wines & Craft Beer Options

Monarch Beach, Calif. (November 2017) – When Mosen Hashemi was presented with the opportunity to open a market in Monarch Beach, he jumped at the opportunity. Soon after opened Monarch Beach Market and began serving this community, Hashemi noticed that he regularly received members of our military and local law enforcement agencies. He wanted to show his gratitude and respect for the brave men and women who serve our country and decided to proudly show his support by displaying the flag of every single military branch of the armed forces in the center of the store.

Longtime local and store manager Gilbert Santillan says, “It is important to us here at the Market to show those who serve that we recognize the sacrifices they have made to keep America and citizens safe. Therefore, anyone who served this country will receive 10% off their purchase every time we get to serve them.”

It was also important to Hashemi to show his thanks to the community for their continued business and loyalty. To show his appreciation, the Market continually supports the local educational systems by donating to several of their academic and scholarly programs. These programs include but are not limited to; The Wounded Warrior Project, John S. Malcom Elementary School, and Dana Hills High School football, basketball, tennis, baseball, and SOCSA.

Monarch Beach Market is much more than a traditional grocery store and deli. The upscale coastal-themed market with fine food, wine and craft beer on tap boasts an indoor dining area and an outdoor, dog friendly patio. It is located in the Monarch Beach Promenade shopping center at 24040 Camino del Avion in Dana Point. Open daily from 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., orders can be placed online at www.monarchbeachmarket.com or by calling 949.429.8750. A convenient mobile app is available for orders to be picked up.

About Monarch Beach Promenade

Marked by 35-foot high Canary Island Palms, Monarch Beach Promenade shopping center is on the southeast corner of Niguel Road and Camino del Avion in the community of Monarch Beach. Monarch Beach Monarch is one of the center’s anchors which also includes Brio Tuscany Grille, Dana Kai Japanese Cuisine, Rococo Clothing & Accessories, Lingerie Paradis USA, California Bank & Trust, Dana Cosmo Dental, Daniel Paul Salon, Laguna-Dana Urgent Care, Posh Nails and Sunny Fresh Cleaners. For more information, visit http://monarchbeachpromenade.com on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MonarchBeachPromenade or on Instagram @monarchbeachpromenade.

Wildflowers Bloom on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks

Experience 24 Hours of Wildflowers Online March 21 and See What’s Blooming Where

Orange County, Calif. (March 1, 2017) – Irvine Ranch Conservancy and OC Parks invite the community to enjoy the sights and smells of wildflowers on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks by registering for a free public program. Nature lovers can also explore the blooming lands through a virtual wildflower tour on Tuesday, March 21 beginning at 6 a.m. 

Heavy rains led to an early wildflower season this year, and many of the Landmarks are in full bloom ahead of spring. Limestone Canyon is sprouting with common wildflowers including arroyo lupine (Lupinus succulentus) and Mariposa lilies (Calochortus). Visitors to Black Star Canyon can spot California lilacs (Ceanothus) and bright yellow fiddlenecks (Amsinckia). In the City of Irvine, trekkers enjoying the Turtle Ridge Trail in Bommer Canyon can spot elusive shooting stars (Dodecatheon meadia) and visitors to Orchard Hills can admire vibrant blue hyacinths.

In celebration of wildflower season, Irvine Ranch Conservancy is launching their 2^nd annual “3…2…1…Bloom: 24 Hours of Wildflowers” virtual tour. The tour will include 24 hours of wildflowers and feature a photo of a different bloom posted every hour to the Landmarks’ Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages. Each post will include a picture of a native wildflower, information on the species, and links to programs on the Landmarks where you can see these flowers firsthand. Join the virtual tour by “liking” the Landmarks’ Facebook page at Facebook.com/irlandmarks, following us on Twitter (@IRLandmarks), or adding us on Instagram (@OCMountainstoSea).

OC Parks, City of Irvine, and City of Newport Beach and Irvine Ranch Conservancy offer a variety of programs where visitors can appreciate wildflowers in bloom while connecting with the land. Whether registering for a docent-led activity or exploring the open spaces during self-guided access, wildflower season is waiting for you in the great outdoors. Click the programs below to register for a free program and enjoy the many blooms of the season.

• Wildflower Showcase on Sat. 3/4 kicks off at 10 a.m. and welcomes outdoor enthusiasts of all ages to admire Orange County native wildflowers in bloom. Visit the Native Seed Farm and learn about 45 different local plant species grown onsite while enjoying the views of the land. Pack a picnic lunch and join a guided walking tour.
• Tuesday Morning Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road on Tues. 3/7 travels through OC Parks’ Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, which is currently sprouting with wildflowers! This weekly fitness hike helps you connect with nature while finding fresh air and exercise on the Landmarks.
• MidWeek Hike: Quail Hill on Weds. 3/8 is a great way to take a break and spot blooms in the City of Irvine’s Quail Hill. Enjoy views and quiet time in Irvine’s beautiful Southern Preserve, and be sure bring plenty of water for this 10 – 12 mile hike.
• The Natural History of Baker Canyon on Sun., 3/19 welcomes nature lovers to enjoy views of the Santa Ana Mountains as well as the wildflowers and plants of oak-shaded Baker Canyon. Travel along a 3.5-mile hike and learn about the local habitat.
• Dig In! Plant With Us at the Native Seed Farm is a reoccurring stewardship program always looking for volunteers to harvest seeds from native spring wildflowers. Take in the sights of the 14-acre farm and help the Landmarks by harvesting seeds from local wildflowers. All tools and training are provided, and nature lovers age 8 and older are welcome.
• Buck Gully Reserve in Newport Beach is open daily from dawn to dusk, where it’s common to see bush sunflower (Encelia californica) in bloom along the trails.
• Bommer Canyon is also open for self-guided access on designated trails, where sticky monkeyflower (Mimulus aurantiacus) and popcorn flower (Cryptantha intermedia) have been known to sprout.

Irvine Ranch Conservancy offers a full calendar of spring activities and free, guided programs that include hiking, mountain bike rides, horseback riding, habitat restoration and special events for nature enthusiasts of all ages and fitness skill levels. Visit http://LetsGoOutside.org for more information and to register for free today.