Latest Features

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!

Gorgeous Grins by
By Joe Carberry

When most people think of orthodontists, images of white coats, wires and rubber bands come to mind. Rarely does one think “cool.”

But that’s exactly what you get with Dr. Frank Mogavero. That’s especially apparent when you walk into his stylish orthodontist office in the Talega area of San Clemente. Signed pictures of famous skaters and snowboarders adorn the interior. Stone walls straight out of a ski lodge decorate the entryway along with a chair from an old lift at Mammoth Resort. Dr. Mogavero is an athlete who loves to snowboard and mountain bike. If he weren’t creating some of the best smiles in South Orange County, he’d be working in Action Sports. “I’ve just always been drawn to the Action Sports industry,” he says. “And I like to make my office a fun place where everyone feels comfortable.”

Dr. Mogavero has always loved to make people smile, and that shows in his work from early treatment in 7 to 10-year-olds, to teens and adults – both with braces and Invisalign care. He’s been practicing for 24 years and estimates that he’s finished nearly 10,000 patients in that time. It’s no surprise that Dr. Mogavero takes great pride in that wealth of experience. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, a recognition earned over time that signifies a “pursuit of continued proficiency and excellence.” He’s even served as an expert witness in some 25 legal cases.

Still, it’s helping people in the community that makes Dr. Frank’s job fun for him. A few years ago, Dr. Frank was shopping in his neighborhood grocery store when he noticed a young boy whose teeth were intensely crooked. The boy shied away from attention. His confidence was extremely low. So Dr. Mogavero approached the boy’s mother and asked her if he could work on her son. According to his mom, other children had teased the boy at school. It was affecting his life. So despite being a single mother with one income, Dr. Mogavero made treatment possible. “It’s amazing what your smile can do for your confidence,” he says. “Whether you’re in school, dating, applying for a job, having a nice smile is key.”

That’s why Dr. Mogavero puts so much extra time into community events. He provides free mouth guards for the San Clemente, JSerra and Dana Hills High School football teams every year. Dr. Frank works with local charities as well, like Grind for Grins, a skating fundraiser organized by local pro skater Mitchie Brusco that raises money to help provide braces for the underprivileged.

“I just really love the community here in San Clemente,” Dr. Mogavero adds. “It’s a good family community and the people like to be outdoors. It’s not a pretentious place and it’s off the beaten path.”

And the community appreciates his expertise. “He’s so good with the kids,” says Stacy Wood, whose son Trey is a longtime patient. “It’s kind of like having an old friend work on your mouth.”

Dr. Frank is raising his own family of four (including a new baby girl) in San Clemente with his wife Anna. It’s a town he sees himself in for the long haul, a place where he will continue his life’s work – creating beautiful smiles.

San Clemente • 949.373.3737
1031 Avenida Pico, Suite 101
SyncYourSmile.com

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! ]

South County FIAT

The Italians are coming! The Italians are coming! This historically inaccurate quote was recently made famous from a national television campaign by the auto manufacturer FIAT. Good news for you, the Italian vehicles are no longer in transit, they are here and available today at South County FIAT.

Pat Lustig, Operating Partner of South County FIAT and Maserati (Alfa Romeo to be added this summer), has expanded his automotive footprint with his new dealership in Mission Viejo. Lustig is a 35 year veteran of the car industry. In 2010, Lustig unveiled South County Lexus on Marguerite Parkway near Saddleback College. Four years later, his second dealership brings the sexy appeal of Italian cars to our coastal communities. The dealership offers the entirely revamped FIAT line of vehicles, the legendary Maserati sports cars, and the luxurious Alfa Romeos will be coming soon.

Pat is proud to work side-by-side with his two sons, Pat Jr. and Houston. Pat Jr. is a Finance Manager and Houston is in the sales department, truly making this a family run business. Lustig shared that the retail automotive industry requires long hours, late nights and weekends. “I tried to keep my sons out of the business just like my dad advised me,” admitted Lustig. “I’m blessed that they chose to work with me. Working with Pat and Houston is very fulfilling.”

FIAT was born over 50 years ago, emerging from Post WWII Italy. FIAT has grown and is now the parent company of Ferrari, Maserati, Alpha Romeo and Chrysler. The company from the start prided itself on being a liberating form of self-expression. This spirit continues today, with a variety of FIAT models to fit your personality. The new 2014 500L is the first 4-door, 5 passenger vehicle in FIAT’s history. The 500e is a 2-door hatchback that is solely electric. FIAT offers convertibles, traditional 2-door hatchbacks and has special edition 2014 series, including a 500 GQ series, a 1957 Edition of the 2014 FIAT 500, and a “Small and Wicked” 500 Abarth. Lustig believes that FIAT rounds out the entry level car that was missing with his Lexus dealership. “We have many young adults that FIAT reaches, with models starting under $17,000,” he adds. “This price-point fills a huge gap in sporty, compact offerings for the public.”

The FIAT 500e is featured on the cover of the magazine this month. This electric dynamo delivers over 100 MPGe, and comes with the valuable HOV carpool lane stickers to zip you around the freeways of Orange County. South County FIAT is eager to share their excitement about this vehicle. You can drive off in your own FIAT 500e with only $995 down, and a payment of $199/month on a 36-month lease. “This is an incredible offer,” states Lustig. “You can have a stylish car and get stickers to drive in the carpool lane. All this while you are being environmentally friendly.”

Expanding their appeal in the industry, the 2014 500L is FIAT’s entry into the compact car marketplace. The 500L has room for five passengers. The company has an amazing television campaign to promote this revolutionary vehicle, including a current “Mirage” commercial featuring Sean “Diddy” Combs. Come see for yourself that the 4-door FIAT vehicles do exist, starting at $19,195. With 25MPG in the city, 33 MPG on the highway, the fuel-efficient car has tons to offer.

South County FIAT
28400 Marguerite Pkwy.
Mission Viejo
949.276.7601
SouthCountyFIAT.com

[ Check out our behind the scenes footage of our South County FIAT photo shoot! ]

Ocean Auto Mall – Driving Service First
By Shelley Hudson

Ocean Auto Mall’s Jeff Cappo may be a fresh face on the South OC car scene, but he’s far from the new kid on the block. Cappo’s 30-plus years in the industry and string of 30 dealerships spread out over seven states has earned him a reputation among manufacturers for excellence in sales and service.

Victory Automotive Group, Ocean Auto Mall’s parent company, acquired the Kia, Nissan, and Honda stores in San Juan Capistrano in mid-2013 and has captured the attention of the community by making a few small, but significant changes. Cappo operates Ocean Auto Mall like his other endeavors, under a simple core philosophy, “If the customer feels comfortable, the customer wants to do business.”

To create this inviting and comfortable environment, Cappo introduced value-added perks to both sales and service customers. A just-completed café offers complimentary lunch to guests waiting for cars in the service department, and if waiting is not an option, a loaner car is provided—also at no charge. All vehicles are returned washed and vacuumed as well.

Cappo cites his staff as the primary factor for driving customer satisfaction. He hired additional employees, extended operating hours, and considers training an integral part of every work day. “Our salespeople are all ‘car buffs.’ They’re driven by product knowledge and information. We have drastically improved the customer experience, and this is how we do it,” explains Cappo. Patrick Peters, General Manager at Ocean Auto Mall’s Honda dealership, elaborates, “We take a unique approach to the car business here; it’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen in all my years in the field. Most GMs sit behind a desk all day and look at spreadsheets. To the contrary, I greet guests in the lobby and introduce myself to every person walking in the door. This practice is not only an enjoyable part of my job and great for staff morale, it’s empowering for our customers to have this kind of access. Trust is very important to a customer making a sizeable investment.”

Ocean Auto Mall’s customer service efforts are underscored by the group’s impressive sales performance. The number of cars sold in January was more than double the mark in the same period in 2013 before Ocean Auto Mall took the reins. Cappo is modest about his success, however, “It’s easy when you have highly-trained people who want to be here; we just stick to the basics.” Patrick Peters agrees, “It’s true. Everyone is greeted and made to feel welcome. We want our customers to tell their friends about us!” Advances in automotive technology have kept the interests of buyers piqued as well. Peters says his best-selling Honda models are perennial favorites: Civic, Accord, and CRV. With all three boasting fuel economies in the 40 miles per gallon-plus range; that’s not surprising. Peters is especially enthusiastic about the redesigned 2014 Civic and the upcoming 2015 Fit, which will be larger and even more of a fuel sipper. Newly-implemented safety features like the “lane departure camera” and integrated smart phone applications offer drivers options to help mitigate tedious freeway time.

Nissan’s reputation in the market for solid, reliable trucks and sedans is buoyed by the brand’s “Safety Shield” monitoring system, pursuit of sustainable manufacturing methods, and consistently remarkable values. Kia’s safety ratings, sophisticated styling, and increasing residual values keep these models at the top of sales charts, too. Motortrend named the Kia Cadenza and Kia Forte best-in-class, with features including ventilated front seats and in-vehicle wireless connectivity for diagnostics and navigation. The jaw-dropping UVO “Infotainment and Telematics” suite allows drivers to make hands-free calls and manage music libraries with only voice commands, making road trips fun as well as safe.

For Jeff Cappo, his commitment to making Ocean Auto Mall as successful as his other dealerships starts and ends with his clients. “I feel like I’ve been doing this since Moby Dick was a minnow,” he laughs, “but it’s always, always, always about the customer.”

[ Check out our behind the scenes footage of the Ocean Auto Mall Photo Shoot! ]

Harv Wyman, The Mortgage Manager
By Shelley Hudson

As the South Orange County real estate market slowly inches its way to a more favorable climate, homeowners, prospective homeowners, and market watchers inevitably shift focus to property values, refinancing, and optimizing investment strategies. With new government regulatory pressures and increasingly stringent lending requirements in place, partnering with a seasoned industry veteran is a pivotal decision toward securing your financial future.

With a 25-year career in the local mortgage finance arena, Harv Wyman has witnessed the extreme highs and lows of the Southern California real estate market. As a graduate of USC, Wyman made his home in Laguna Niguel, where he and wife Kim have raised their four children, coached youth teams, and enjoyed a 20-year membership at the Monarch Beach Club and the El Niguel Country Club. “Over the years I have made so many great friends and acquaintances; that’s why I love doing this. I like being entrenched in the community and helping my neighbors make the right choices,” shares Harv.

After operating his own brokerage firm for many years, Wyman recently transitioned to a position as Senior Mortgage Analyst with Alpine Mortgage Planning in the Ocean Ranch neighborhood of Laguna Niguel. As a subsidiary of Pinnacle Capital, Alpine Mortgage boasts unparalleled strength and unlimited resources within the industry. “It’s amazing to be able to present such a variety of lending programs to clients,” says Wyman, “Since Alpine funds its own loans, I have a flexibility that I was never able to offer in the past. I have absolutely everything at my disposal.” In addition to conforming and jumbo loans, Alpine provides FHA/VA, interest-only, reverse mortgages, and special programs for borrowers who don’t quite fit the criteria of traditional lenders. Clients who have suffered setbacks from a flagging economy such as a short sale, bankruptcy, or foreclosure can take advantage of Alpine’s Alternative Mortgage Program, which is designed to get families back into homes without the “seasoning time” requirement. “Most companies can accommodate the ’round peg-round hole’ buyers, but we can extend our services to a wider segment of the population. With Alpine’s own mortgage-backed security, almost anything is possible,” adds Wyman.

Changing legislation in the mortgage industry has resulted in tighter restrictions for both lenders and borrowers. Despite a challenging regulatory environment, Harv asserts that Alpine’s core competencies lie in the versatility and financial strength behind the company’s product mix. His ability to offer more competitive, high performance programs—and to fund them faster—allows him to deliver results for his clients under circumstances where other mortgage brokers and bankers can’t. The accessibility to specialized products, coupled with concierge-level customer service have generated a loyal and long-term clientele for Wyman.

Harv’s analysis of current market conditions is optimistic, but guarded. “The historically low interest rates helped stimulate the local economy toward a rebound, but rates have been slowly creeping back up. In fact, we’ve seen a full percentage point increase since May. Combined with the usual seasonal sales slump, more properties on the market, and rising prices, buyer incentive has plateaued. All signs point to a continuation of suppressed interest rates through 2014, however. The traditional home-selling season is Spring, so we expect to see a similar boost in activity this year as well.”

Let Harv Wyman’s experience and resources work for you. To learn more about mortgage and refinancing opportunities you might not find elsewhere, call Harv directly at 949.939.3410 for a private consultation.

Capistrano Toyota
By Shelley Hudson

As Capistrano Toyota General Manager Roger Hogan, Jr. surveys the expansive dealership, he stops to shake hands and chat with every customer along the way. Maintaining the highest standards of personal attention and integrity are the founding principles upon which his father Roger, Sr. grew the business into the success it is today.

Capistrano Toyota’s sterling reputation and no pressure sales philosophy are the cornerstones that continue to fuel its growth. “My dad was determined to make this industry more reputable,” Roger explains. “We want customers to know that car people can be good family people. The easier we can make a customer’s experience with us, the more successful we are. We like what we do, and we want to offer a fair deal.”

Jerry Hernandez, Irvine Valley College basketball coach and loyal Capistrano Toyota customer, sums up his experience, “Going to the dealership is like dining at your favorite family restaurant where you know everyone. The Hogan brothers are always there—it’s about a sense of trust and the security of knowing that someone will take the time for me. I’ve referred at least 25 friends or family members to Capistrano Toyota in the last ten years.”

Community outreach remains an integral component of the Hogan philosophy as well. Capistrano Toyota recently partnered with the Dana Hills High School football team and Honor the Valor to raise over $20,000 for military veterans. “We were approached by one of the players about helping out with a fundraiser. When I learned about Honor the Valor, I said, ‘How about if we donate a car?'” recalls Roger. “I have a soft spot for veterans—both of my grandfathers served during the Korean War and we work with many Marines from Camp Pendleton. This was a team effort, and I was happy we could be a part of it,” he adds. As the fundraiser’s grand prize winner, local resident Bill Sidenfaden couldn’t be more pleased with Roger’s donation of the new 2014 Toyota Matrix.

Homefront America is another worthy organization that benefits from Capistrano Toyota’s generosity. This group provides scholarships to military dependents and assists military families in need. The dealership and several employees “adopt” families each year to provide necessities and support. The Ocean Institute, youth education and sports programs, and Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort (CARE) are also organizations that receive assistance from the Capistrano Toyota family.

Roger Hogan, Jr. is enthusiastic about his dealership’s outlook for 2014 with the upcoming rollout of several new vehicles. The Corolla, Tundra, RAV-4, and Highlander have completely new body styling, and all 2014’s come standard with Bluetooth technology. The top-selling Prius and the new RAV-4 EV plug-in models are all highly-anticipated and well-reviewed. With the opening of the Toyota Truck Center on the adjoining property earlier this year, sales of trucks and SUVs have skyrocketed and Capistrano Toyota is now the fastest-growing truck seller in Southern California. The Hogans have even more expansion in the works—Claremont Volkswagen is scheduled to open in early 2014 next door to Claremont Toyota (operated by Hogan
brother Stephen).

The service department has also increased capacity with the addition of several new service bays at the Truck Center, allowing customers to get rolling even quicker. On top of the always complimentary Wi-Fi, local shuttle, concierge service, car wash, and continental breakfast, new customers can score $10 oil changes for any vehicle on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

December is the busiest month of the year in the auto sales industry, and Capistrano Toyota is ready to meet the demand. Inventory is packed with competitively priced new and pre-owned cars, SUVs, and trucks. Be sure to ask your salesperson for the locals only “Back Yard Deals” and incentives.

Roger, Stephen, and Kyle Hogan have grown up in the car business alongside their father Roger, Sr., and all three brothers are now raising families of their own. Roger, Jr. is excited to welcome “Oh Baby!” #5, due to arrive in Spring 2014. “We all work hard, but our families are most important,” says Roger, “I still have lunch with my dad every day, and I wouldn’t change a thing.

[ Check out our behind the scenes footage of our Capistrano Toyota photo shoot! ]

Luciana’s Ristorante
By Bonnie Small

“Umph and Zing!,” says Jorge Luhan II, are his mother Lucia’s trademark criteria for a well-prepared dish. And as Luciana’s Ristorante, a culinary landmark in Dana Point, celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, the community is in for a healthy serving of both. Established in 1983, Luciana’s opened in tune with a very different dining culture – guests arrived in black tie and the original menus included detailed descriptions of such exotic drinks as “espresso” and “cappuccino.”

Today’s diners are both more culturally sophisticated and more casual. Jorge Luhan II is thrilled that locals now think of Luciana’s as not just a “special occasion” restaurant, but also as an “any night” destination where families can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine and couples can unwind with a delicious bottle of wine after a long day.

All in the Family
A true family business, everyone played a part in the day-to-day operations, including Jorge’s Grandma Mary Vallera who made all of the fresh pasta for the restaurant until she was 90! Before she retired, Mary taught the kitchen staff the “right” way to create it, and even now, as she celebrates her 100th birthday, the first question she has for her grandson is always, “Who made the pasta today?” Mary learned the art of pasta making at just six years of age – strictly by hand – mixing, rolling, and cutting each batch daily, refusing to ever use a machine.

Luciana’s menu has certainly evolved over thirty years, although many of the original family recipes remain, including Grandma Mary’s Ravioli di Vitello and his mom’s Linguine Luciana. The kitchen rarely veers from its emphasis on the simple preparation of high-quality, fresh ingredients. The Mediterranean diet, which is now creating a buzz as a “new” culinary trend, is merely what Jorge’s family has intuitively understood and practiced for decades as part of their Italian heritage. “Farm to table is what we’ve been doing for generations,” says Jorge, “Knowing where your food comes from and eating handmade meals is how my family has always lived.” For years, he’s witnessed his mother and grandmother artfully craft fresh, delicious dishes that would keep the family gathered at the kitchen table for hours. And with the family’s matriarch turning 100, they just may have been ahead of the times. Americans are just recently beginning to transition away from processed and fast foods. “You look at trends and you get to watch them come full circle,” says Jorge.

History in the Making
Lucia and her husband ventured back to her homeland in the late 80’s in search of a quiet retreat from their busy American lives. As they happened on a 500-year-old Tuscan farmhouse in Montevettolini, complete with 18 acres of olive groves, they knew they found home. Within a year, Lucia began pressing olives and creating oil. In keeping with her philosophy of using only the best ingredients of known origin, she’s been supplying the restaurant with Villa Lucia’s organic extra virgin olive oil for years. The Luhans have plans to market their product and hope to have it available for your table in the next few months.

The Legacy Continues
Jorge attributes Luciana’s longevity to the strong family foundation laid by his mother and the internal culture of the restaurant. The Luhans believe that life revolves around the table and feel that the key to the restaurant’s success stems from a willingness to be in tune with what customers want and to provide a consistently high level of personalized service. Luciana’s staff is like a family and Jorge finds that the higher the bar is set, the more they rise to the occasion. As the 2nd generation to oversee the restaurant, he is proud to have carried on the family legacy for over 20 years now. On any given night, you’ll find him warmly greeting guests and stopping by tables to make certain that diners are having an experience that would make his mother and grandmother smile.

Family Expansion
Very active in and devoted to the community, Jorge is a member of several local business organizations and is also involved in the revitalization of Dana Point’s Town Center. In November 2011 the family grew when he married his lovely wife Anne. As a physician and the proprietor of Elite Medezin in Dana Point, Anne has also developed strong ties to the area in which she now calls home.

As Luciana’s kicks off its 30th year, Jorge and his entire family hope that customers of every vintage will stop in and say hello. In the coming months, Luciana’s will feature some favorite classic menu items and they hope that the community will help them celebrate by sharing personal stories of memorable meals and moments at the restaurant.

24312 Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point
(949) 661-6500 • Lucianas.com