Latest Features

CB Cyclebarn – Keeping It Fun!
By Beth Fhaner

When founder and owner Karen Casler opened CB CycleBarn® in San Clemente over two years ago, her vision was to create an indoor cycling studio grounded in customer service. Her mission to make fitness fun, and to provide a variety of classes that foster personal growth, generate a sense of community, and an opportunity for the transformation of one’s body, mind and spirit, has since become a reality.

For those unfamiliar with CB CycleBarn®, there may be a tendency to associate the studio with traditional Spin® classes and the intimidation factor that sometimes accompanies them. To the contrary, indoor cycling at TheBarn is distinctively different than Spinning® and offers a fun, safe, and effective cardio workout that provides an escape for all fitness levels.

Casler is passionate about her vision for CB CycleBarn® and has made it a priority to create an atmosphere of “open arms.” She is committed to maintaining a casual, inclusive environment where you can come as you are and be warmly welcomed. The fun-loving Casler makes riders feel at home and believes in a no-pressure attitude toward attracting new clients. She lets the studio’s results and its exceptional customer service do the talking for her. She’s so confident in her successful formula that she offers the first five classes free to local residents so they can give CB CycleBarn® a spin before making any financial commitment.

Though she has a background in group exercise and an athlete mentality, Casler’s passion is customer service, and that’s what sets TheBarn apart. Having spent countless hours in the pool as a former college athlete, she recognizes the difference between training and exercise. By treating indoor cycling as group exercise and not as indoor training for outdoor cyclists, TheBarn is able to offer something for everyone…regardless of their fitness goal. The sunny and energetic Casler is committed to helping others find their FUN. Her infectiously positive attitude and love for teaching have certainly contributed to TheBarn’s loyal following of cycling devotees and the studio’s rapid rise.

Indoor cycling is non-impact cardio that anyone can do. It’s great cross-training for any sport and an exceptional complement to water sports like surfing, stand up paddle boarding and outrigger canoeing. Whether you’re training for a cycling event or want to groove your way to health and fitness, all types and styles of riders work out side by side in the safe and encouraging studio. The Barn is also a place where families have the ability to exercise together (as long as riders are at least 4’10”— the height requirement needed for the bike).

With a team of 20 plus instructors who do what they love and love what they do, CB CycleBarn® provides the ultimate cardio workout with minimal impact on bones and joints. The minute you step through the door, you’re surrounded by a healthy, positive vibe that immediately draws you in. Loud, upbeat, percussion-based music elevates classes to the next level, and is the motivating force that drives cyclists to work through the burn. To keep workouts fresh, TheBarn offers a wide range of classes so that you can experience a total body workout one day and an inspirational mind/body connection the next.

For those cyclists wanting a more competitive workout, TheBarn offers that experience as well. The studio features bikes with power meters by STAGES® Cycling and real-time CB2 Performance IQ leaderboards, from which riders can review their stats as they pedal and receive data tracking that consists of email stats sent after every class. From the results, riders are then able to set fitness goals, track their performance and measure progress.

“The beauty of TheBarn is the fusion of music and movement,” says Casler, who has witnessed many examples of empowerment and life-changing transformations among her clientele. The results prove that when fitness is fun, people lose weight and gain confidence. She believes strongly that if you enjoy what you’re doing, you’ll keep coming back. As Casler strives to marry the integrity of traditional indoor cycling with her brand of fitness made fun, her success has led to other studio owners seeking her advice, which she gladly imparts.

CB CycleBarn® affords cyclists a variety of perks that make getting started and working out a breeze. New riders are never charged membership or gym fees and have the option to pay as they go. Scheduling a class and even a specific bike can be accomplished quickly online or on your mobile device through the studio’s reservation system. TheBarn also offers a diversity of classes at varying times to provide added convenience and flexibility.

To experience a sweat-breaking, fat-burning class for yourself, contact Karen Casler or studio manager Kat Haskins who will be more than happy to get you saddled up on a bike. For more information about CB CycleBarn®, call 949.481.5438 or visit cbcyclebarn.com.

Check out our behind the scenes look at our latest cover photo shoot of CB CycleBarn!

Mathnasium – The Math Learning Center

The goal at Mathnasium is to help math make sense! Whether your child is far behind or is already succeeding in math, Mathnasium offers the tools that enable a student to leap ahead. Mathnasium knows that every child can be successful in math; it’s a matter of teaching it in a way that makes sense to them.

The first Mathnasium Learning Center opened in 2002, more than 40 years after math educator Larry Martinek was inspired to find a better way to teach children math. Larry developed the Mathnasium Method™ and a new business was born. Martinek’s desire was to provide children all over the world with increased confidence, critical thinking skills, and the mathematical ability to last a lifetime. Students of all ages found the curriculum to be incredibly powerful and engaging. As evidence of how effective it is, Mathnasium centers have sprung up across North America, South America, Europe, and Asia.

Mathnasium’s experienced math tutors utilize their proprietary teaching materials and techniques, The Mathnasium Method™, to deliver a customized learning plan designed to address each student’s needs. The instructional approach goes beyond traditional math tutoring to develop understanding and to build a love for math.

If math is a problem, Mathnasium can solve it. Students will grow more excited and confident about math—and their grades will reflect that. Mathnasium owner, Kapil Mathur, oversees four centers in San Clemente, Dana Point, Laguna Niguel and Ladera Ranch. He and his team have been serving elementary, middle and high school students in South Orange County since 2006.

For students who already excel in math, the sky’s the limit. They will expand their math skills and, with math learning made exciting, students will discover what doors excelling at math can open.

Students engage one-to-one with Mathnasium-certified instructors in a unique combination of mental, verbal, visual, tactile, and written exercises. This instruction does more than just meet state math standards; it surpasses the recommendations of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Common Core State Standards.

Basic math concepts and skills are blended with a program specifically designed to help students build number sense. This special program shows them how and why the useful number rules they’re learning work so they are able to understand how they can be applied to interesting areas such as computer science, biology, and psychology.

Students are evaluated with a written and verbal assessment unique to Mathnasium. Based on the results, Mathnasium develops a custom-tailored program designed to close any educational gaps they may have so they can jump ahead when they’re ready for advanced math challenges.

Mathnasium builds upon your child’s existing foundation and explains why mathematical rules work so that children learn and understand them. Mathnasium’s philosophy is that math shouldn’t simply be an exercise in memorization.

Mathnasium also helps students understand their homework as part of each session and prepares them for school tests, as well as standardized tests such as the California High School Exit Exam, SAT, ACT and ISEE.

By giving students a firm foundation—and confidence—in math, Mathnasium can prevent them from falling behind in the future and can help them avoid the problems and frustrations that struggling in math often creates.

Contact your local center today to schedule a free trial session where you and your child can experience all that Mathnasium has to offer.

Click below to contact any of these convenient locations near you.

pure. love. yoga.
By Laura Love

There’s a new yoga studio in town and it’s changing the game on how yoga studios operate. San Clemente welcomes pure. love. yoga., a studio dedicated to community, sustainability, service, and collaboration. Owner Angela Treaster purchased the former Pure Yoga with the vision of creating an authentic, accessible community. The business model is like nothing you’ll see in Orange County, with the studio functioning similarly to a co-op. Angela has gathered a team of well-regarded professionals to fulfill her vision, including Creative Director Laura Love, Seva Director Jamie Hanson, Retail Director Andrea Delancallotti, Media Director Marjorie Woodbridge and Student Advisor Golden Traut. Angela shared her thoughts on her unique business model, “My late husband, Ken, who was a very successful business man, always told me that you hire the people who are at the very best at what they do, and then you give them the freedom to do it. Ken was my inspiration for creating this space and his love for life, people, and following one’s passion is undoubtedly felt in the studio. He is the ‘love’ in pure. love. yoga.”

At pure. love. yoga., practicing asana is merely the beginning of your journey. This is not to say that the physical practice of yoga is unimportant at pure. love. yoga. The studio is home to some of the most sought after, knowledgeable yoga instructors in Orange County and it offers much more than chaturangas and downward facing dogs. The studio includes community members on many levels — from selling merchandise crafted by local artists to facilitating potlucks and neighborhood events. Pure. love. yoga. is all about people and every Saturday night it holds a live music yoga class spotlighting local musicians and the pool of remarkable talent available in south Orange County. This class has quickly become one of the most popular classes on the schedule.

In November, pure. love. yoga. partnered with CB CycleBarn in its 1st annual “Yoga-Tri-Give-A-Thon,” a fundraising event incorporating in-
door cycling, running, and yoga. 100% of the proceeds benefited With My Own Two Hands Foundation, a local non-profit organization established by one of the studio’s instructors, Lindsey Pluimer. This foundation has built an orphanage in Africa and is currently working on constructing a new school for underprivileged children. The successful, sold-out Yoga-Tri-Give-A-Thon went beyond raising funds for a worthy cause, it connected the community of San Clemente on a deeper level, demonstrating that together, we can make a difference.

In December pure. love. yoga. hosted a Local Artist Faire & Holiday Party, an evening designed to support local art and encourage students to mix, mingle, and shop more consciously for the holidays. The event was well-attended by students, friends and families and featured over 25 local vendors, live music, dancing.

Another core value of pure. love. yoga. is to be environmentally conscious. The studio only sells beverages in glass containers, has replaced paper towels with cloth ones in restrooms, utilizes 100% recycled paper for all printed materials and has moved toward paperless solutions for business operations. The studio also has a retail section that offers a variety of organic, eco-friendly, and local products and apparel.

Seva (sanskrit for “selfless service”) is also a value of pure. love. yoga. The studio holds a donation-based class every Sunday afternoon and 100% of all proceeds go to a local non-profit. This quarter, the studio is supporting With My Own Two Hands Foundation. “Our intention is to create something truly authentic, collaborative and accessible to all…where the physical practice of yoga is just one layer,” shares Creative Director, Laura Love. “Pure. love. yoga. is making yoga accessible to all students, from beginners to advanced practitioners and beyond.”

pure. love. yoga.
415 East Avenida Pico
San Clemente
(949) 492-5048
PureLoveYogaSC.com

Tannins Restaurant & WIne Bar
By Michele Clarke

Tannins Restaurant & Wine Bar in San Juan Capistrano blends old world cuisine with a modern flair. Featuring delicious Italian and Mediterranean cuisine and an extensive wine list, the restaurant strives to make your dining experience memorable by placing an emphasis on food and wine pairings. Tannins is the perfect venue to ring in the holidays, from its Levendi Cave, Wine Cellar or recently renovated outdoor patio, these unique spaces offer the perfect backdrop for holiday parties, bridal and baby showers, sports banquets or company events.

At Tannins, the owners and staff treat everyone just like family, resulting in first-time customers often becoming repeat guests. During our visit, I witnessed servers welcoming many loyal diners by name and was impressed to see one customer present a gift to the manager — definitely a sign that the restaurant is doing something right. According to owner Gabriel Sanchez, “Tannins has an open kitchen so that customers can interact directly with the chef and watch their food being prepared.” This intentional design element lends itself to a comfortable and intimate dining experience.

On a recent Tuesday evening, we stopped in for the Filet Mignon and Lobster Tail Night. Our dinner began with garlic bread accompanied by an olive dip that’s to die for. The filet practically melted in my mouth and was so tender and full of flavor that it could have been cut with a fork. The lobster tail was succulent and ready to jump into my butter. Complete with silky, whipped potatoes and crispy, yet tender asparagus, the generous and tasty meal was reasonably priced at only $22. Be sure to make reservations early to experience this don’t-miss surf ‘n turf for yourself.

Along with the evening’s special, I had the pleasure of sampling Tannins’ lasagna. Prepared with a house-made meat sauce and three types of cheese, this traditional entrée had just the right amount of sauce (and the perfect kick!) to fully highlight the noodles and other ingredients.

As a finale, we ordered the Crème Brûlée and New York Cheesecake. Topped with a sweet caramel crisp, the Crème Brûlée offered a decadent and delicious smooth vanilla custard inside. The tasty and generous slice of New York-Style Cheesecake was drizzled with raspberry topping and served with fresh fruit.

Our server was very friendly and knowledgeable, providing prompt and attentive service throughout our meal. As first-timers, we had several questions regarding the menu, and she took the time to answer them all completely and made additional recommendations. With over 40 wines by the glass, one of the largest selections in Orange County, Tannins’ staff will gladly suggest pairing options to elevate your dining experience.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or a corporate event, Tannins offers catering to make your gathering stress-free and special. If you need a night off from cooking to tackle holiday to-do’s, opt for take-out or delivery (available in a limited area).

Tannins has made the choice to be environmentally conscious and has gone green. The restaurant serves locally grown, pesticide-free produce and only utilizes recyclable to-go cartons.

If you’re looking for a resource to provide healthy school lunches, then look no further. In an effort to encourage healthy eating habits for children, Tannins has prepared as many as 200-boxed lunches a day for local schools. Contact them for more information.

Tannins Restaurant & Wine Bar serves lunch and dinner daily. Happy Hour runs Monday through Friday from 2 to 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. Head over to San Juan Capistrano for an unforgettable meal and become part of the Tannins family this holiday season.

Tannins Restaurant & Wine Bar
27211 Ortega Hwy.
San Juan Capistrano
(949) 661-8466
TanninsRestaurant.com

Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California
By Beth Fhaner

If you’re like many in south Orange County who suffer from allergy and asthma-related conditions, relief is just around the corner at Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California. For more than 30 years, the group has been treating the local community for allergies, asthma, eczema, sinus problems, chronic cough and much more.

Founded in 1980 and under the current guidance of partners Dr. Warner Carr and Dr. William E. Berger, the practice is known for quality, leading-edge medical information in conjunction with thoughtful, unhurried care. With offices in San Clemente, Mission Viejoand Irvine, the nationally and internationally recognized physicians will treat you like a member of the family at a location close to home.

Dr. Warner W. Carr spent 17 years in the Army as a practicing physician and obtained his medical degree from the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle. He admits that he gravitated to the specialty of allergy and asthma care after noticing “the explosion of allergic diseases in our society.” When it comes to treating patients with allergies, Dr. Carr says that food allergies and environmental allergies are both extremely common conditions. After obtaining a patient’s history, performing a physical exam, and administering some tests, Dr. Carr and his staff are able to create a tailored treatment plan to alleviate some allergic symptoms. Strategies and medical therapies may include medication, allergy shots, avoidance to certain allergens, or a combination of treatments to achieve optimal results.

If you’re the parent of a school-aged child, you’ve certainly been introduced to peanut-free areas and the increased focus on food allergies in our institutions of learning and beyond. As food allergies in both children and adults are on the rise, it’s imperative that diet and environment are diligently monitored to avoid what could be a life-threatening situation. The primary culprits of food allergies in children are milk, eggs, and peanuts, although soy, wheat (gluten), fish and shellfish round-out the top 7 items.

If someone in your family suffers from an allergy to dust mites, the best approach is to tackle it at the source. Found on towels, pillows, matresses and carpeting, dust mites can be significantly reduced through vacuuming, dusting, decluttering and the use of dust mite covers. Parents of some of the children that Dr. Carr treats are concerned that their beloved stuffed animals may harbor dust mites. Rest assured, there’s no need to give Elmo the boot. Simply place the furry friend in a plastic bag and then in the freezer – problem solved.

Another area of concern for families and adults is exercise-induced asthma, which occurs in patients only when they’re physically active. According to Dr. Carr, exercise-induced asthma “is a very common condition we see in our practice.” Besides airway inflammation, this type of asthma may also cause patients’ muscles to get twitchy and narrow, leading to shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing. “About 10 people per day die in the U.S. due to asthma. It breaks my heart because it is easily treated with appropriate management and medications that are very easy to carry and use as needed thereafter,” shares Dr. Carr.

With an extremely busy research center in Mission Viejo, the doctors at Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California are involved in cutting-edge research, clinical trials and testing for large pharmaceutical companies around the world. Additionally, Dr. Carr lectures worldwide and feels fortunate to teach allergists and primary care doctors on an international level. Commenting on his research studies, Dr. Carr notes, “We’re literally on the precipice of a breakthrough for food allergies, and one day we may even potentially cure diseases like asthma.” As a leader in his field, Dr. Carr considers himself blessed to have the opportunity to work on a local, regional, national, and international level. Above all, though, it’s the time Dr. Carr spends with his patients that he finds the most rewarding. “What keeps me refreshed and coming back is the relationships with the patients. There is nothing more fulfilling.”

November Cover Shoot of Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California

San Clemente Villas by the Sea
By Bill Koelzer

The San Clemente Villas by the Sea assisted living community offers a luxurious, healthy, comfortable environment for senior residents over age 65.

The Villas community includes nutritious gourmet dining, an activities center, movie theater, computer room and library, pool & spa, as well as comfortable outdoor patio areas for important social interaction between residents and visiting family and friends.

One enters the Villas through an open, living room-like “grand hall” with soaring ceilings, and plush furniture. Smiling, over-65 seniors enjoy chatting amongst themselves and with visiting relatives as they lounge on couches, easy chairs or sit at small cozy tables. The soft drink refreshments bar is always open.

Paul and Aileen Brazeau co-own and manage the staff and directly participate in the Villas’ social activities, also conducting special “community” events during the year, usually to benefit a non-profit organization.

Intelligently located immediately adjacent to the Saddleback Memorial Medical Center hospital and directly across the street from buildings housing scores of doctors, the gleaming white three story complex offers its residents expansive city and ocean views as well as amenities rivaling those of a luxury private club.

Along with its comfort and grandeur, residents enjoy a level of care seldom seen in senior domiciles. For example, the Villas tailors a care plan to meet each resident’s individual and unique needs involving 24-hour personalized care and the finest comprehensive activity program for residents with special needs and memory care.

The executive director and two licensed nurses are involved in all aspects of team management and resident care, quality assurance and family participation. Dr. Jane L. Mahakian, a Ph.D., gerontologist also works with those in need of help regarding dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease.

Seniors get scheduled transportation Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with scheduled church transportation services on Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to noon.

Residents have the option of choosing a studio, or a one-bedroom apartment suite.

Aileen Brazeau, the marketing and PR director of the Villas, says, “We love San Clemente and its senior residents who live here. The first thing that Paul, I and our staff focused upon when we opened our doors in 2002 was that each senior has a unique story to tell and each one has individual needs. If we are as successful as people say we are in providing luxury senior care and lodging, it is for that reason… we keep listening very closely to what our residents tell us.”

Married couples, life partners and singles all live here, many forming close friendships as they participate in the endless group and individual scheduled daily activities at the Villas. Residents enjoy as much independence as possible, plus there is ample assistance for much older adults who need help with dressing, bathing, taking medications, healthy nutrition, exercise and other daily personal chores.

Paul Brazeau, a Navy Veteran, and an experienced 40-year builder of shopping centers, has focused on constructing senior facilities for the past twenty years. Before that, he built and owned Delta Electric, a Los Angeles-Orange County electrical contracting firm with more than 100 employees. In his career, he’s built 35 buildings — and San Clemente Villas by the Sea, which he calls his “labor of love.”

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

Behind the scenes of our October cover shoot at San Clemente Villas by the Sea

MemorialCare Medical Group
By Donia Moore

Patient, thoughtful, engaged physicians? Same day appointments? Convenient location? MemorialCare Medical Group is giving us yet another great reason to live well in South Orange County.

MemorialCare Medical Group has opened a beautiful, state-of-the-art facility in the medical towers on Camino de Los Mares in San Clemente. The new location complements its existing physicians group office in Talega at Saddleback Medical Center. The larger space in North San Clemente consolidates three individual medical offices into one, still allowing room for continued expansion. Four experienced physicians are currently working out of the new office and all are accepting new patients, in case you’re looking.

MemorialCare Medical Group is part of MemorialCare Health System which includes Saddleback Memorial – Laguna Hills and San Clemente, as well as Orange Coast Memorial, Long Beach Memorial, Community Hospital of Long Beach and Miller Children’s and Women’s Hospital Long Beach.

In addition to the benefit of participating in a large health care network, MemorialCare Medical Group provides around-the-clock assistance with a convenient Telephone Advice Nurse line, that’s accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The Advice Nurse line is staffed by professional RNs who are available to answer medical questions at no charge to the caller. Patients may also visit the Urgent Care office, located at 26991 Crown Valley Parkway in Mission Viejo, Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

ABOUT THE DOCTORS:
Pred Mitrevski, MD and James Sperber, MD are both internal medicine physicians. Dr. Mitrevski was born and raised in Orange County. He is a USC graduate and is board certified in internal medicine. When Dr. Mitrevski is away from the office, he loves spending time with his wife and three children and watching Trojan football.

Dr. Sperber loves solving mysteries. He especially enjoys solving the mysteries that lead to better patient care. After growing up in the San Diego area, Dr. Sperber headed east to complete both his undergraduate degree and medical degree in Rhode Island. He is board certified in internal medicine.

Returning to practice medicine in San Clemente was coming home for Dr. Sperber and he has since served generations of families in the community. Over 20 years later, Dr. Sperber is still grateful for this privilege, “Thanks for trusting your health and your life to my care, now and in the future!”

They are joined by neurologists Hitesh Patel MD, MPH and Pedro Postigo, MD. Prior to entering medical school, Dr. Patel earned a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science and Health and a Master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Utah. Board certified in neurology, Dr. Patel enjoys playing a number of different sports.

Dr. Postigo’s journey to practicing medicine in San Clemente came by way of Europe. Originally from Peru, he obtained his medical degree in Spain, then spent several years in England before coming to the United States. Upon his arrival, Dr. Postigo completed an additional four years of training to obtain his U.S. medical license. In private practice since 1983, Dr. Postigo is board certified in neurology. When not in the office, he enjoys playing tennis, gardening, and spending time with his wife and four daughters.

MemorialCare Medical Group physicians are connected through a system-wide electronic medical record system with Saddleback Memorial-Laguna Hills and San Clemente. Patients’ medical records are readily available whether they are in the doctor’s office or hospitalized. This connectivity ensures seamless care with all providers having access to imaging studies, lab results and care notes.

Anyway you look at it, MemorialCare has you covered. Make your appointment today by calling (949) 542-8865. For more information regarding MemorialCare Medical Group or Saddleback Memorial, visit MemorialCare.org.

MemorialCare Medical Group San Clemente Locations:

675 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 200
San Clemente • 949.542.8865

1300 Avenida Vista Hermosa, Suite 250
San Clemente • 949.542.7700

161 Avenida Vaquero
San Clemente • 949.489.8783

For more locations in Orange County,
visit MemorialCare.org/MedicalGroup
or call 866.276.3627

Halstrom Academy in Mission Viejo
By Melissa Hodge

A one student to one teacher ratio is the cornerstone philosophy of Halstrom Academy. Founded in 1985, Halstrom pioneered the concept of customized curriculum paired with guided, individual instruction. After recently expanding its staff and campus to serve students from Grades 6 through 12, the school has grown to over 13 campuses throughout the state, with the Mission Viejo location as its largest.

Halstrom appeals to a wide range of students, including artists, athletes, and young entrepreneurs with its ability to offer a tailored curriculum and to accommodate ever-changing schedules. This flexibility allows for travel and experiences that otherwise would not be possible within the confinement of a traditional school model. Not limited by a classroom, Halstrom also provides an accelerated and rigorous pace with over 100 college prep and AP courses available to suit the academic needs and interests of its students. As a well-rounded school, Halstrom celebrates unique and individualized learning. Students with ADD, ADHD and high-functioning autism can learn at their own pace without the pressure to keep up with a classroom full of students. “There are kids that are getting put into special needs classes that do not need to be…there doesn’t seem to be an in-between for them. At Halstrom, we are the in-between,” pronounces Janeva Ryder, the Acting Director at the Mission Viejo campus. “The kids come in feeling like they aren’t good in school. Halstrom lets them know that they can be successful regardless of their learning differences.”

At age 15, Spencer Mangan, an accomplished violinist and promising scientist, will be graduating two years ahead of his peers, in the spring of 2015. A profoundly gifted student, Spencer is able to accelerate the pace of learning at Halstrom, as well as personalize his curriculum as his interests peak. For example, administrators and staff worked together to create a college-level Organic Chemistry tutorial class designed for Spencer. “This type of [tutorial] class is not available at any high school that I know of,” proudly states Ryder. Spencer’s mother, Margaret, chose Halstrom based on the “one student, one teacher” model and for the interaction that Spencer craved. “The ability for Spencer to ask as many questions as he wants, to have a gab-fest with his teacher over things that excite him…that would never be allowed in a regular classroom,” states Margaret. “At Halstrom, he is engaged in his learning, instead of ignored.”

Senior, Matteo Joseph has an extensive travel schedule that requires him to be out of the country several weeks out of the month. As the Director of New Corporate Development for his father’s successful energy drink company, West Coast Chill, Halstrom’s flexibility truly fits well with his demanding schedule and work responsibilities. Coming into Halstrom in the eighth grade, Matteo knew right away that the fit was a good one. Halstrom not only gave him an educational experience where he thrived; he was able to boost his confidence level to an all-time high. “I used to get beaten down at my other school,” laments Joseph. “But at Halstrom, based on a scale from 1-10, my confidence coming in was at a 4 and now…25!” Joseph beamed.

Aspiring actress and model Kayla Carlson participates in Halstrom’s extracurricular group classes, such as film appreciation and dance, creating opportunities to meet people and make friends. “The fact that everyone I meet at Halstrom wants to be there…that makes it special,” raves Carlson. A straight-A student, Carlson is able to balance her auditions and callbacks with the coursework she masters at her own pace. She expands that her teachers have the time to break down concepts and spend time on things that she may need extra help understanding. “One of the greatest gains I’ve had by being at Halstrom is the relationship that I’ve been able to have with my teachers. Because they know me, I am held accountable to know the material,” declares Carlson. “They let me ask hundreds of questions…and encourage me to do so.”

Check out a behind the scenes look at our August cover shoot at Halstrom Academy!

Halstrom Academy • Mision Viejo Campus
26440 La Alameda, Suite 150
Mission Viejo
866.537.1083
Halstrom4u.COM

Zia Jewelry in San Juan Capistrano
By Joe Carberry

Family has always been a priority for Teri Chambers, the new owner of Zia Jewelry in downtown San Juan Capistrano.

Teri met her husband Greg in Huntington Beach over two decades ago. Both are from the Midwest, but moved to California to chase their dreams. Less than two years after they met, they were married and relocated to Scottsdale, Arizona for business, which eventually led them to a life in Seattle. During that time they had four beautiful children together.

Although they moved away from Southern California, there was always something that pulled them back to the place they now call home. The couple returned to South Orange County seven years ago, because as Teri shares, “We just really like this little pocket. It’s family-oriented.”

Teri’s affinity for the South Orange County lifestyle led her to purchase Zia Jewelry — a family-run business that has served San Juan Capistrano and the surrounding area for 35 years. Former owner Ron Cohan emphasized customer service and community involvement. The store’s location was also a draw for Teri; it’s situated kitty-corner to the Mission with an open-air feel that welcomes tourists and locals alike.

Zia’s experienced sales staff knows how to take care of its customers. If a piece of jewelry arrives that a salesperson feels will suit a specific client or person in the community, they personally reach out to them to share the information. “Most of the salespeople have been here a long time,” Teri says. “The manager’s been here 19 years.”

The extensive knowledge, client-focused attitude and attention to detail are the hallmarks of Zia Jewelry’s longevity and success. “We train our staff to be able to assist people,” says Susan Todd, Zia’s floor manager. “And Teri has really continued that tradition of customer service.”

Although Zia Jewelry is steeped in tradition, that’s not to say there haven’t been a few changes. Visit the Zia Jewelry Facebook page and you’ll see an emphasis on tight messaging, upscale imagery and a move toward diversifying the jewelry line. Teri is bringing in designers and new lines that include sterling silver and 18-karat gold. “We want to go a little bit more fashion-forward and diversify our audience and the ages of people frequenting our store,” Teri says. “We’re going a little more high-end. Nothing over-the-top, but just more fashion-forward.”

It seems to be working. One of Zia Jewelry’s Facebook reviewers raves that, “The new owners are rockin’ this place!” Manager Susan Todd adds, “Teri Chambers has great taste in fashion. It’s been wonderful to get some new (jewelry) lines in the store. It makes it more exciting for younger people.”

Even more importantly, Teri says, is connecting with the community she and her family love. Greg and Teri have volunteered in the area for years through the schools and youth sports. To insure that her business also remains connected, she’s holding a Customer Appreciation Sale on July 12th from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. This event is an opportunity for locals to meet Teri, for new and existing clientele to receive some fantastic deals on jewelry and for Zia Jewelry to demonstrate how its continuing a tradition of customer service that’s been synonymous with its name for over three decades.

“You walk into this store, and it just feels like a family,” Teri says. “There are people that have been coming in here for 30 years and I don’t want that to change.”

Zia Jewelry
31761 Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano
949.493.1322
ZiaJewelrySanJuanCap.com

Check out a behind the scenes look at our August cover shoot with Zia Jewelry!

Acting Academy for Kids
By Shelley Hudson

Stephen and Maggie Zygo co-founded the Acting Academy for Kids in 2008 as both a community service and as a vehicle to pursue their lifelong passions in education and the performing arts. With public school budgets slashed in recent years, an unfortunate casualty has been the near elimination of cultural arts programs from the curriculum. The Zygos answered by developing a theater-based program to expose children and teens to acting, music, and dance and to teach skills that are inherent to performing—poise, confidence, collaboration, and discipline.

The foundation of the Acting Academy for Kids is based on providing a quality performing arts experience with an emphasis on fun. A distinctive feature of the Academy is that its teachers are primarily credentialed educators and professional performing artists. These industry experts teach students to stretch their boundaries in a safe, supportive environment. The benefits are virtually limitless—whether a child is new to the stage or a budding superstar, he or she will learn valuable life lessons while nurturing friendships and forging lasting memories. “Our teachers are passionate and enthusiastic artists,” says Stephen, “They know how to keep kids engaged while having fun.”

Another hallmark of the Academy is its partnership with local organizations such as the Camino Real Playhouse in San Juan Capistrano and the Cabrillo Playhouse in San Clemente. Both venues provide an authentic theater setting for the Academy’s classes and performances. Main stage theatres, a set-building workshop, professional sound and lighting systems, a conservatory, dressing rooms, and the Academy’s expansive inventory of costumes gives students a first-hand appreciation for how the elements of a full-scale production come together. “It’s important for us to demonstrate that all aspects of theatre are integral for the whole to shine,” explains Maggie, “The collaborative nature of performing arts encourages teamwork, compromise, and commitment.”

Acting Academy for Kids offers voice, piano & guitar lessons, acting classes, a musical theater series each season throughout the year (a Spring Series performance of GREASE starts in April) as well as an innovative series of summer camps. “Our camps are a great way to ‘test-drive’ the stage,” says Maggie, “Athletes and introverted or shy students learn just as much as kids who are natural performers. They gain the confidence to speak in public and explore a new form of self-expression.”

Each week-long camp introduces a different kid-voted, popular theme, and campers have the option to enroll for one week, all ten, or anywhere in between. Kids ages four through thirteen can participate, and no experience is required. With a low flat fee, flexible scheduling, and convenient locations in San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente, the Academy’s camps are ideal for busy parents who are seeking economical and enriching summer activities for their kids.

At the Academy’s flagship location in SJC, four distinctive daily classes provide the structure for summer camp, with each segment focusing on one element of the production—music, dance, acting, or fine arts. Outdoor breaks and lunchtime punctuate the schedule and provide students with an opportunity to refresh and play in the adjacent grassy park between sessions. Kids are divided into age groups with limited class sizes, allowing each performer to have a chance to get involved. The week culminates in a mini-musical performance on Friday afternoon in which every student has a role. Friends and family are invited to attend and cheer for their stars.

Extended scheduling options offer flexibility for parents and even more instruction for camp participants. Camp hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with an early bird Sunrise Studio from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and an after hours Camp Unplugged from 2 p.m. to
5 p.m. Seasoned Activity Directors—typically college theater and/or education majors—facilitate the extended programs as well as teach the technical aspects of performances. Select Academy alumni teens also volunteer to make the campers’ experience a fulfilling one.

Acting Academy for Kids has enjoyed “training the next generation of talented performers” for nearly seven years, and the organization’s commitment to its founding principles and the community has generated a loyal following. Students from as far away as San Diego County and Newport Beach come to study with the Zygos, and Parenting OC named the Academy “Best Theater School” and “Best Children’s Live Theater” in 2013. “We have so much more to come,” offers Stephen, “We love to contribute to children growing into confident, creative young adults.”

Check out ActingAcademyforKids.com for schedules, themes, and details about summer camps, the Spring Musical (GREASE), and other upcoming projects. See you on stage!

[ Check out our behind the scenes footage of Acting Academy for Kids cover shoot! ]