Latest Features

Nanch Pellegrino, NP Aesthetics
By Shelley Hudson

Nancy Pellegrino, NP is much more than a pretty face. Although it’s difficult not to notice her flawless skin and sparkling blue eyes, she’s also the brains and expertise behind thriving NP Aesthetics, Inc. in Newport Beach. Just ask any of Nancy’s loyal skin care devotees, and you’ll quickly learn that she’s not only an age fighting authority, but a trusted and attentive professional who delivers results-based aesthetic medicine to men and women ages 18 to 88.

What sets Nancy Pellegrino apart from her colleagues is what can’t be taught through formal education. She has 15 years of experience providing injections, laser and skin care treatments, in addition to graduating from UCLA at the top of her class. Her innate ability to assess each patient’s face and to visualize the possibilities allows Nancy to personalize each and every injection, achieving natural and consistent results. “I am in the business of providing happy medicine, but am serious about fighting the aging process with safe and proven solutions. I strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my patients, helping them match the outside with how they feel on the inside,” shares Nancy.

Nancy’s clientele ranges from stay-at-home moms to the entertainment industry’s familiar faces. “Several of my patient’s livelihood’s are dependent on their appearance, so it’s imperative that I offer innovative services that deliver the perfect balance of classic elegance and glamour. I want my clients to look like they’ve just returned from a restful vacation, not that they’ve been noticeably injected with Botox or fillers,” says Nancy. Peggy Tanous from the OC Housewives agrees, “Nancy Pellegrino is the best injector I have ever been to. Being a TV host and a model, my appearance is everything. She has a way of distributing Botox and fillers so it reaches all areas, not just one. You look rejuvenated rather than frozen
and expressionless!”

As a member of Allergan’s advisory board and a highly regarded A.C.E speaker and trainer for the company, Nancy stays one step ahead by having advanced knowledge of products before they’re widely available. She trains doctors and other medical professionals, educating them on the technique and use of Botox and Juvederm. Patient and former OC Housewife Lynne Curtin says, “I am so lucky I found Nancy Pellegrino. She is definitely the Michelangelo of Botox, fillers and other non-invasive treatments for women who are not ready to make that step towards a surgical procedure. Along with her amazing staff, Nancy is changing lives and breathing new life and hope into women of any age. I highly recommend a visit to her beautiful state-of-the-art facility which offers the latest and greatest procedures
and products.”

Nancy Pellegrino’s success has resulted from her passion for the field of aesthetics and because she genuinely cares about her patients. “I’m very grateful for the loyal, happy clients who have trusted me with their faces for years. I’ve been their friend, confidant and have shared in their major life moments. It’s rewarding when they leave NP Aesthetics looking and feeling amazing… and my reputation depends on it.”

Nancy Pellegrino holds R.N. (Registered Nurse) and N.P. (Nurse Practitioner) certifications. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from CSULB and a Masters in Nursing (MN) from UCLA. Nancy is a member of the California Association of Nurse Practitioners and The Aesthetic Practice Association. She is also a trainer, speaker and on several advisory boards for Allergan, Inc.

Nancy Pellegrino, N.P.
180 Newport Center Drive, Suite 160
Newport Beach, CA 92660
(949) 706-9919
npaesthetics.com

Orange Coast Women’s Medical Group and The Women’s Hospital at Saddleback Memorial
By Shelley Hudson

Orange Coast Women’s Medical Group and The Women’s Hospital at Saddleback Memorial partner to provide exceptional maternity care. With offices in San Clemente, Laguna Hills and Irvine, Orange Coast Women’s Medical Group has provided personal, comprehensive care to over 50,000 women in the local area. The Women’s Hospital at Saddleback Memorial has been the birthplace of over 60,000 babies, serving the community for over 25 years.

The Orange Coast Women’s Medical Group’s (OCWMG) Talega office in San Clemente opened in 2007 with the goal of offering convenience to expectant mothers and other busy women seeking personalized care, user-friendly resources, and exceptionally skilled physicians. The group’s partnership with The Women’s Hospital at Saddleback Memorial ensures that patients benefit from the highest standard of healthcare available. Obstetrician Dr. Elizabeth Johnson describes the office’s familial atmosphere. “San Clemente is a special community, and it is where my family calls home. Caring for patients here is particularly gratifying and unique,” she says, “On any given day I might run into a neighbor, local business owner, or friend I have had the chance to care for during an important life event.” Fellow physician Dr. Todd LaRocque agrees, “I feel privileged to work in this field and share experiences that are frequently joyous and often challenging throughout the stages of a woman’s life. I look forward to continuing relationships with the families who make this area such a vibrant place to live and work.”

Specializing in maternity care from preconception planning through post-partum care, OCWMG provides onsite ultrasound, nutritional counseling, vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) services, and gestational diabetes management. Patients enjoy the scheduling flexibility and proximity of the Talega, Laguna Hills, and Irvine offices for these services and for routine appointments, and they deliver exclusively at The Women’s Hospital at Saddleback Memorial in Laguna Hills.

Terri Deeds, Executive Director of The Women’s Hospital at Saddleback Memorial, is proud of the network of specialists and the hospital staff who work together to ensure the safety and comfort of mother and child—no matter what the circumstances. “Our on site Level III neonatal intensive care unit is adjacent to the labor and delivery department, and our round-the-clock Board Certified neonatologists are here to care for critically ill babies,” explains Deeds, “Of course we plan for perfect deliveries and healthy babies, but we’re more than prepared and equipped for any outcome.” A 24/7 staff of OB-dedicated anesthesiologists and hospitalists (physicians available to evaluate patients who arrive with pregnancy issues) provides an additional safety net and
peace of mind.

In its 25-year history, The Women’s Hospital at Saddleback Memorial has delivered over 60,000 babies, many of whom were multiples—even quintuplets! The newly remodeled luxury birthing suites have been designed to provide the most healing and relaxing environment for expectant parents. With the convenience of local offices and the security and standard of excellence of The Women’s Hospital at Saddleback Memorial, Orange Coast Women’s Medical Group is the comprehensive, confident choice in women’s healthcare.

Visit www.ocwmg.com for physician bios, appointments, healthcare resources, and questions for the advice nurse. For more information about The Women’s Hospital at Saddleback Memorial, go to memorialcare.org/saddlebackbaby.

Halstrom Academy
By Shelley Hudson

Mission Viejo’s Halstrom Academy thinks outside the box when it comes to educating 6th through 12th graders. The school’s one student, one teacher approach is the core principal behind its academic success and an impressive college admissions record backs that up. An environment where customized schedules, online classes and a content mastery philosophy that allows students to progress at their own pace is the norm at Halstrom, not the exception.

Most notable is Halstrom’s hyper-focus on the individual needs of each and every student. How the Academy engages its students is equally as important as the curriculum it provides. By implementing a one size does not fit all environment – students, parents, teachers and the school’s administrative staff partner to develop a tailored plan for individualized learning. Whether a student’s vocation or sport requires remote classroom access, or a child thrives through one-to-one instruction, Halstrom employs a cooperative approach with no limits to achieving academic excellence.

Katie Vandermost
Creative Writer / Artist / Intern / Volunteer / Student Body President

This Fall will mark Katie Vandermost’s third year at Halstrom Academy. She excelled at her former school, but found the “existing friend groups” intimidating and the schedule daunting. She was originally introduced to the school by a neighbor. “I went to an open house and fell in love with everything,” enthuses Katie. “At Halstrom, I’m able to think freely. I have room in my life for creative outlets, and I’m more motivated to succeed. I have real relationships with my teachers, and I know when I’m doing something right.”

Katie’s involvement with the National Charity League and her summer internship at a local ad agency keep her busy but grounded. “I just wouldn’t have the time to dedicate to my other interests if I went to another school,” Katie acknowledges, “This way I can do everything I like but still have fun along the way.”

Connor Perkins
Eagle Scout / Marine Biology Enthusiast / Piano Student / Athlete

Social Studies and Science are Connor Perkins’s favorite subjects, but this almost-ninth-grader has a lot more on his mind than the next midterm. He found attending a school with six jam-packed classes per day both stressful and limiting. Connor’s mom, Marianne, explains, “Everything is so efficient at Halstrom. Connor missed sports practices and time with family because of the heavy homework burden at his former school. Now he can have the lifestyle he wants and still experience academic growth.”

According to Connor, the rank of Eagle Scout would have been impossible to obtain without a flexible schedule. His final project for the Scout promotion was a booth at Newport Beach’s “Kelp Fest” which included a touch tank and other educational materials. “It was a lot of work to put together and report on,” says the ambitious teen, “but definitely worth it.”

Summer & Serenity Phillips
Competitive Equestrians / Athletes / Aspiring / Veterinarian and Chemist

Sisters Summer and Serenity Phillips have been riding horses and rising through the equestrian ranks for eight years. Their grueling training and show schedules made it difficult to concentrate on studies and enjoy time with friends until they switched to Halstrom Academy. The school’s individualized approach allows each girl’s academic talents to shine and the flexible scheduling provides them time for their sport. Summer has won awards in all of her most recent competitions and Serenity has advanced her technique by leaps and bounds since they started at Halstrom two years ago. “This school has changed me as a student,” says Summer, “My teachers focus on what I need to improve.” Serenity agrees, “I just feel smarter here because I don’t get passed over.”

26440 La Alameda, Ste. 150, Mission Viejo

(949) 348-0608 • HalstromAcademy.org

[ Check out our behind the scenes footage of our Halstrom Academy photo shoot! ]

Dr. Frank Mogavero
By Shelley Hudson

Local orthodontist Dr. Frank Mogavero found a way to combine his passion for action sports, photography, and creating beautiful smiles—with the help of a few of his most “extreme” patients. With 23 years of professional experience and a peerless reputation behind him, Dr. Mogavero has become the orthodontist of choice for many of skate and snow’s rising stars.

As an avid snowboarder and amateur photographer, Mogavero infuses an element of fun and visual excitement in to his practice. Patients can sit in an authentic chair lift, play video games in the Wii cave, surf the web, and check out the autograph wall and some captivating sports photography. Mogavero’s kid-friendly atmosphere and caring team help to calm nerves and make a patient’s visit memorable for all the right reasons.

Dr. Mogavero’s unconventional San Clemente office began attracting local skateboarding phenoms a few years ago and his practice suddenly became the go-to spot for these daring tweens and teens. Mogavero, a loyal X-Games follower, has also photographed many of the events. “I was surprised to learn that even these mega-ramp kids were afraid of the dental chair,” he recalls. “I’m glad I’ve been able to make the experience better for them.” Five of Mogavero’s patients competed in X-Games Barcelona in May 2013, “It is so fun to see my patients competing against the world’s best and earning medals on the other side of the globe!”

Although his waiting room screams “fun and X-Games,” Dr. Mogavero is serious when it comes to orthodontic treatment. His practice specializes in early treatment and facial orthopedics, which Mogavero describes as “modification in the formative years to create space for permanent teeth and to optimize growth patterns.” This two-phase method typically starts between the ages of seven and ten years using jaw wideners or braces to address issues like crossbite, crowding, oral habits, protrusion, diastema, underbite and spacing. The finishing (second) phase includes braces and other appliances. Early treatment has become the standard in the field, and Dr. Mogavero finds that most kids don’t avoid braces and other dental work like in past generations.

As the only Premier Preferred Provider of Invisalign products in South Orange County, Dr. Mogavero treats many adult patients as well. This series of progressive aligners—otherwise known as invisible braces—is ideal for adults who want the convenience, flexibility and comfort of a removable device that both straightens teeth and creates stunning smiles. As the technology has advanced, these virtually undetectable aligners are now successfully treating patients that would not have been candidates in the past.

Dr. Mogavero’s sports-influenced orthodontic practice also extends to the local community. He provides mouth guards—complete with imprinted team logos—to high school varsity athletes and also coordinates with San Clemente Youth Football’s mouth guard program. As both a father and a father-to-be, Mogavero is proud to reinvest in local youth sports. “These kids are all amazing,” he asserts, “Each one has a different story. I’m happy to get to know them and glad they can come to my office and feel at home.”

When he’s not with his family, photographing sporting events, or treating patients in his San Clemente and Laguna Niguel offices, you might find Dr. Mogavero on the slopes of Mammoth Mountain. He travels to his Mammoth Lakes satellite office twice a month to see local patients and to get his snowboarding fix when conditions are right.

Take a behind the scene look of Dr. Frank Mogavero’s Xtreme Cover Photo Shoot!

SyncYourSmile.com
Mulitple Offices to Serve You:

San Clemente • 949.373.3737
1031 Avenida Pico, Suite 101

Laguna Niguel • 949.493.7300
31371 Niguel Road, Suite F

Mammoth Lakes • 760.934.6699
170 Mountain Blvd., P.O. Box 100, PMB 122

JFC Xpress Tire Center
By Shelley Hudson

Kevin honed his skills while working at John’s Foreign Car Service – which happens to be South Orange County’s oldest independent automotive repair shop; owned by his father, master mechanic Russ Graham. Every summer growing up, he learned the ropes of the family business as well as what it takes to provide customers with both quality and value. He attended St. Edward’s School and after graduating in the third alumni class at JSerra High School, he earned a degree from Point Loma University in San Diego. After graduation, Kevin found himself in the same predicament as many recent college grads – searching for a job. He faced the challenge head on and turned it into an opportunity to start his own enterprise.

Graham combined his know-how and business education with the entrepreneurial spirit he learned from his father and opened his own tire store in early 2012. Russ stood on the corner of Crown Valley Parkway and Forbes Road with a sign pointing toward his son’s shop every Saturday. Within a year, the business outgrew its location, so Kevin moved it to a larger space adjacent to his dad’s shop. A 32-year industry veteran, Russ knew that getting the right message out to potential customers is the most difficult aspect of owning a business. Kevin is constantly reinvesting in his company and securing the latest software and equipment to offer the highest level of service to his customers.

With the expansion, JFC Xpress is able to provide a larger selection of in-stock tires as well as a full range of “xpress”—one day or less—services, including alignments, suspension work, oil changes, and brake jobs. A huge inventory of tires in all ranges are on hand every day, including high performance models, light truck and “run flats.” Graham keeps his overhead low by buying in bulk, and he passes the discounts on to his clients. In fact, Kevin states that his prices are lower than any other local shop and even lower than his warehouse store neighbor a block away. “95% of my business is referrals,” says Kevin, “and that motivates me to do the best job I can every time.” When clients find out how much they’re saving—up to $100 per set of tires—word-of-mouth advertising spreads quickly. JFC Xpress guarantees the lowest prices and will match any competitor at any time.

While most local automotive stores parse work out to other shops, JFC Xpress keeps customer waiting times to a mini- mum by offering all services in house and using state-of-the-art technology including dealer-level diagnostic software, tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) and “touchless” tire-changing equipment. This allows Graham’s technicians to quickly perform a battery of tests and diagnose issues on the spot. The “touchless” equipment ensures the perfect installation and fit of new tires without ever touching the wheel—ideal for after-market rims and high-end “driving machines.”

Kevin knows that time plus good service equals success in the automotive industry, and he’s set out to prove himself in the community he calls home. His parents, Russ and Sheila, couldn’t be prouder. “Kevin knows more about tires than I’ll ever know,” Russ admits, “I don’t even bother mounting tires anymore—I send all that business to him. JFC Xpress is your one stop shop for all your foreign & domestic car repair needs.” Check out JFC Xpress’s May specials and come see how much you can save!

JFC Xpress Tire Center
28002 Forbes Road, Ste. A, Laguna Niguel • 949 347-1106
jfcxpress.com

Take a behind the scenes look of JFC Xpress Tire Center photo shoot!

Acting Academy for Kids
By Shelley Hudson

When Stephen Zygo was teaching fourth grade and running his school’s K-8 theater department, Acting Academy for Kids was just a seed of an idea. As arts programs were being slashed due to widespread budget cuts, Zygo saw a need in the community and wanted to continue helping kids discover their inner performers. Stephen and his wife Maggie took a leap of faith, followed that passion and created an environment where students are free to explore musical theatre, acting, voice, dance and instrumental music.

Acting Academy for Kids is now a burgeoning, multi-program organization, exposing young people to all aspects of the performing arts. The Academy’s home base at the Camino Real Playhouse in San Juan Capistrano and satellite location at The Gate in Rancho Santa Margarita allow aspiring singers, actors, musicians, and set designers to try their hands at the real thing. In the Acting Academy’s Musical Theater Series, young cast members produce and perform popular Broadway musicals every 12 weeks. These seasonal programs each culminate in a full-scale production with professional lighting, sets, and sound.

The Academy also offers Performing Arts Camps all summer long. These week-long sessions provide children and teens with a “full-theater immersion experience,” capped off with a performance for family and friends. Campers have the option to sign up for one week, the whole summer, or anywhere in between. “Summer camp is the perfect ‘test-drive’ for a child who’s interested. It’s a great opportunity for kids to interact outside their peer groups as well,” enthuses Maggie. With the popular camps at the Camino Real Playhouse and the launch of camps at San Clemente’s Cabrillo Playhouse this summer, the Zygos hope to get more kids involved than ever before.

In addition to its seasonal and summer camp programs, the Acting Academy provides after-school acting classes (group and private), vocal training, and guitar and piano lessons. Fundamental concepts like improv, line memorization, character development, professional singing techniques and voice-over training give the student a performing arts foundation that helps develop self-esteem. “Acting Academy for Kids helped transform my son from a shy athlete into a confident stage performer,” says one appreciative mom, “It’s a delight to see him willingly hang up his cleats one day per week to participate in the arts.”

The Zygos’ Acting Academy is more than a livelihood for the couple—it’s a true labor of love and a way for Stephen to combine his “twin passions.” Stephen and Maggie both have advanced degrees in education and they assert that the quality of the faculty sets their programming apart. “Our teachers are trained performing artists AND credentialed educators,” says Maggie, “They understand how kids learn.”

Stephen and Maggie pride themselves on the authenticity of the experience they offer as well. “We want the kids to see the real deal—an active dressing room, staging, lighting design, and set creation in a genuine working theater. Hands-on learning helps kids understand that each role is vital to the success of a show.”

With feet firmly planted in both the arts and in education, the Zygos have taken their show(s) on the road with their “school services” concept. They collaborate with schools, churches, and community centers, administering enrichment programs for organizations that don’t have the staff or resources to develop their own.

Stephen gives much credit for the Acting Academy’s excellence to the system of parents and volunteers who help bring each production to life. “It takes an army of crew, costumers, lighting and sound technicians, set designers, box office corps, and photographers to make a theater come alive” he says. “We’re proud that we provide teachers with jobs in the performing arts and that our students find friends, fun, and confidence along the way,” Stephen continues, “At Acting Academy for Kids, we aim for young performers to have all the opportunities possible to learn to present themselves, speak publicly, showcase their work, and understand the sheer teamwork involved in an endeavor like this.”

Take a behind the scenes look at Acting Academy for Kids photo shoot!

For more information on Acting Academy For Kids please visit their website.
ActingAcademyForKids.com

OC Real Estate 411
By Shelley Hudson

Readers might remember Matt and Robyn Webb from a Local Dish feature last year detailing their bustling business called OC Short Sale 411. The Webbs answered a desperate need in the marketplace for homeowners who were tethered to bad mortgages or who owed more than their home was worth. What a difference a year makes! As the housing sector recovers, the Webbs are getting back to the methods that set them apart when they started their real estate company in 2004: bringing a business approach to real estate, with an elevated level of professionalism and intense focus on the homeowner’s profitability.

Recent reports have shown a dramatic change in the South Orange County real estate market, and with it has come an acute inventory shortage. In fact, inventory levels are so low that once a home is in the MLS, and priced at fair market value, it’s as good as sold. So how does one choose an agent in a market where an agent is a commodity?

Enter Robyn and Matt Webb of OC Real Estate 411. They understand all too well that public perception is that hiring a real estate agent to sell your home is a “necessary evil.” Matt and Robyn utilize a powerful “Design To Sell” business concept to take your real estate commission dollars and put them to work in a definitive, profitable manner.

The “Design to Sell” concept is a value-added service that works for a wide range of homeowners, with varying goals, that may have a budget from as low as $200, up to $30,000. This “mini-makeover” starts with an unbiased, third party valuation of the home’s market value. The Webb team then assesses the home and recommends changes that increase visual appeal for the home’s sale value. The Webbs can take a seller’s small investment and apply it to upgrades, typically resulting in a nearly 1,000 percent return. That’s not a typo. The average investment a client makes is $3,769, and the average return – based on sales price – is $42,900. Matt and Robyn retain and manage all subcontractors at no charge – that’s like getting the services of a general contractor for free!

On top of these smart design concepts, Robyn and Matt stage the home with the homeowner’s existing furniture and some of their own added pieces. The end result is a dramatic makeover, with mass buyer appeal, bidding wars, and a final sale price that exceeds the homeowner’s expectations. The Webbs even guarantee their work and structure commissions based on actual results.

Having closed over $100 million in real estate, with MBA’s in Marketing from USC, Matt and Robyn have expertise in understanding the dynamics of showing a home to prospective buyers. “Despite their many different preferences and personalities, there are some common threads amongst all buyers, and we know them well,” Robyn adds.

In addition to running this multi-million dollar operation and raising a family, the Webbs are heavily involved in the business development side of real estate. Both Matt and Robyn travel all over the country teaching credentialed real estate courses. “We learn a lot from teaching,” says Robyn, “and we hope to raise the bar of professionalism in this industry.” She has been recognized by OC Metro and the Orange County Register and is a regular guest on AM 870’s “The Home Show.” Matt also sits on the Board of Directors of the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation, which raises millions for kids with the disease. “Despite having healthy kids ourselves, this organization has touched me and I’m happy to help families who aren’t so lucky,” he says.

Robyn and Matt bring the same level of dedication and determination to everything they do. Robyn insists, “We don’t want satisfied clients. We want them dazzled!”

Take a behind the scenes look of OC Real Estate 411’s photo shoot!

By Shelley Hudson

As San Juan Capistrano’s JSerra Catholic High School celebrates ten years of pioneering in education, its new leadership looks with pride to the foundation upon which it was built and with a sharp focus on an ambitious blueprint for the future.

Newly minted President Richard Meyer and first-year Principal Dr. John Freeh were drawn to JSerra not only because of the school’s high scholastic ranking and college admission rates, but also by its independent operating model and entrepreneurial spirit. President Meyer admits that he’s still “in learning mode,” but says he’s happy to let JSerra’s existing culture shape his vision for future progress. “The solid infrastructure allows for easy adaptation in changing times,” Meyer says, “Our independence allows us to experience growth with no molds or boundaries.”

One example of JSerra’s untethered potential for growth is its online learning program. Students who have unique learning styles, medical conditions or travel for athletics or work can take advantage of the extensive menu of virtual classes and other resources. The online offerings can also supplement a campus-based schedule, allowing for maximum flexibility and curriculum customization. Last year, 40% of the student body took advantage of online classes.

JSerra’s internationally-recognized Magnet program is one of the few opportunities of its kind where students receive in-depth, hands-on experience in a specific profession. Law, business, and medical programs all offer college-accredited classes and field work. Medical Magnet students, for example, attend college-level anatomy and physiology classes and work in a hospital alongside clinicians and patients. JSerra’s Engineering Magnet launches in Fall 2013 and the coursework will also be integrated with real-world applications.

JSerra’s Artist in Residence program approaches visual and performance art much like the Magnet curriculum. Classes in painting, sculpture, photography, writing, and broadcast journalism are all taught by industry professionals and students are encouraged to submit their work for consideration in galleries and community art shows.

President Meyer insists that, although academic excellence is one of the pillars of a JSerra education, the institution places equal emphasis on spiritual and character development. “We are committed to imparting to all of our students the truths and beauty of the Catholic faith. We also encourage our non-Catholic students to embrace their own faith – whatever it may be – and practice it well.” Meyer continues, “Principal Freeh and I saw an opportunity at JSerra to shape our students from the inside out—to imbue each student with a vision for the future to become the best version of himself or herself.” To that end, JSerra’s extracurricular programming is as rich and rigorous as its academic side. The choir performs locally and nationally (including a recent gig at Carnegie Hall!), and a tour of Spain is in the works for next year. The girls cross-country team won the State Championship three years in a row—the first three-peat in CIF history. Varsity girls soccer is in the middle of an unprecedented winning streak, and the JV football team just celebrated the first undefeated season in school history.

“Remember Your Story” is JSerra’s theme for the 2012 – 2013 school year, inspiring students and faculty to commemorate the school’s impressive journey and legacy. “This vision was created by parents and built from the ground up – we started with 150 students and a handful of devoted staff members,” Meyer says. “Now we have over 1,000 students, 70 faculty, and a tremendous support system of additional staff, parents, and community members.” As part of its 10-year celebration, the school releases a weekly video featuring an alumni or teacher who describes his or her experience at JSerra and how it has translated into success. The inspirational videos can be found on JSerra’s YouTube channel and as part of the broadcast journalism group’s weekly production.

President Meyer looks forward to JSerra’s next decade with hope and a clear vision. “While it’s important to continually stay abreast of innovations in the field of education, our focus is not to “keep up with the Joneses” here at JSerra. Our mission, truth be told, is singular and timeless – to fully integrate faith and character formation with a rich academic experience in order to assist parents in raising their children to become men and women of integrity and virtue.”

JSerra Catholic High School
26351 Junipero Serra Road • San Juan Capistrano • 949.493.9307 • JSerra.org

Ross Medical Associates
By Shelley T. Hudson

Ross Medical Associates’ long and storied history as a community healthcare resource in Southern California just added a few more chapters. With its most recently opened clinic in San Juan Capistrano going strong and approaching its three-year anniversary, executives at Ross have made plans to take an already-impressive philanthropic record a step further—and this time, it’s personal. A new program aptly named “Ross Medical’s Heroes” has been instituted to support South Orange County’s partnership with our military neighbors. The doctors at all four locations have treated veterans and their families for years and many members of the Ross team have close personal military connections as well—including founder Dr. T.A. Ross, who came to California as a naval physician. Dr. Monica Harms of Ross’s Rancho Santa Margarita office is a navy reserves veteran, and Dr. Jeff Globus of the Mission Viejo clinic was a naval officer. CEO Samantha Jefferies’s sister and brother-in-law are both active duty soldiers in Afghanistan and her father and brothers are retired from the Air Force. These ties and others provide Ross Medical’s staff with a keen awareness of the unique circumstances and specific needs of military families. This sense of appreciation has motivated the Ross group for its own call to action.

For all of 2013, Ross Medical Associates will hold a fundraiser for military-related charities and support groups. The staff will accept tax-deductible monetary donations on behalf of the military charity of the donor’s choice. In addition, Ross offices will donate a portion of patients’ copayments to military organizations as part of their “CoPay It Forward” initiative.

This type of community commitment is nothing new to Ross Medical. The foundation upon which the business model is built is Dr. Ross’s philosophy that high-quality, family-based healthcare should be accessible and convenient. Dr. Ross also believed strongly in reinvesting into the local area in which he served. Dozens of schools, sports leagues and booster clubs—including AYSO, J Serra, Niguel Hills, San Juan Hills, Saddleback Valley Christian, Capo Valley Christian, San Clemente High and Dana Hills, to name a few—have received the generous support of Ross Medical Associates. In fact, Jefferies encourages students to bring in their sponsorship forms for consideration. “We want to participate in everything,” she says, “We want to be a true community partner.” Ross Medical will also continue to provide no-charge sports physicals to student athletes in 2013.

Another important component of Ross’s community-minded approach to healthcare is the senior outreach program. Jefferies, who also is aGerontologist, states, “When a senior becomes established as a patient, we can provide them with so much information regarding diet, exercise and disease prevention.” As a special incentive, Ross is offering free tetanus boosters to seniors throughout the month of January.

With Ross Medical’s fully-integrated state-of-the-art electronic record sharing, clinicians can address treatment for each patient holistically. All locations are connected on the same system, so follow-up care and diagnostic testing are more streamlined and comprehensive. For example, a student athlete with a sprained ankle might come to urgent care for an x-ray and a splint and learn that she’s due for an immunization. A heart patient might visit the office for a check-up and receive a dose of nutritional counseling.

Now that a federal healthcare overhaul is afoot, it’s even more important than ever to know the facts. More people will become eligible for covered preventative care early this year and insurance exchanges will become effective later in 2013. Ross Medical accepts most forms of insurance as well as Tricare, Medicare and Medicare Senior Advantage. Samantha Jefferies encourages patients to call with questions. “We’ll guide you to resources and help you through the process,” she offers, “We are your medical home. We see patients from one to 100 years of age and we want to help.”

Ross Medical Associates has offices in San Juan Capistrano, Ladera Ranch, Rancho Santa Margarita and Mission Viejo—all of which are open 365 days a year. The combination of a personalized family practice and an easily accessible urgent care is the realization of Dr. Ross’s vision. Visit a Ross Medical location soon and get a jump start on YOU for 2013!

For more information please vist: RossMedicalAssociates.com

Take a behind the scenes look of the Ross Medical Associates photo shoot!

Capistrano Toyota
By Shelley T. Hudson

In ith the help of Capistrano Toyota’s familiar “Oh, Baby!” license plates and billboards, Orange County has watched owner Roger Hogan’s family grow from one grandchild to four. An expansion of a different variety is about to get underway and the timing couldn’t be better. Hogan is doubling the size of his operation just as Toyota unveils its most significant style overhaul in company history.

Capistrano Toyota’s sterling reputation for family-friendly service and no-stress sales was built one car at a time by Roger Hogan and his sons Roger, Jr., Stephen and Kyle. Although their strategic expansion into the neighboring property will add 60% more service capacity and double new and pre-owned car inventories, Hogan promises that his commitment to the highest levels of service will remain Capistrano Toyota’s core value. “What once was a small town family business is becoming a big-inventory dealership,” Hogan boasts, “and we’ll be able to offer even faster service and a greater selection for our customers.”

A major renovation of both the existing and new properties will coincide with Toyota’s rollout of several redesigned models, including the Avalon, RAV4 and Highlander. Among these, the fully reengineered Avalon is the most highly anticipated model by far. Toyota’s Chairman of the Board Akio Toyoda, whose wildly successful Scion models brought a youthful, edgy vibe to the brand, has led the Avalon’s transformation. This stylish, more sophisticated full-sized sedan will appeal to technophiles and car enthusiasts alike. An electric hybrid version of the Avalon is planned for release – a move which is sure to further solidify Toyota as the preeminent leader in eco-friendly automobiles.

The addition of overhauled RAV4s and Highlanders makes Toyota’s 2013 lineup the one to watch. Hogan’s enthusiasm is obvious. “This is truly a style departure for Toyota going forward,” he says, “Our vehicles have always been known for quality, reliability, and fuel efficiency. Now design is a reason to choose Toyota. It’s an exciting time to be in the business.” Roger also notes that he’s ordered a new Avalon for himself.

As part of its showroom-to-service-bay remodel and expansion, Capistrano Toyota has strengthened its commitment to the community as well. Hogan’s untethered support for charitable causes large and small seems to motivate him. “We just have to have these close local partnerships. Less money [is available] to go around than in the past and it’s important for the private sector to step it up.” Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort (CARE), the Festival of Whales, the San Clemente Ocean Festival, Meals on Wheels, and the C.A.R.E. Foundation have all benefitted from Capistrano Toyota’s generosity, as well as countless local schools and sports teams. Just last month, the dealership gave away it’s fourth Prius to the Ocean Institute, which educates kids from all over Southern California about the ocean’s delicate ecosystems. Hogan feels an especially strong personal connection with one particular group, however. He beams with pride when recounting his own boyhood days playing basketball at the Boys and Girls Clubs in Garden Grove and Buena Park. “My time at the Boys and Girls Clubs gave me purpose and had a major impact on me,” he recalls, “and I’m happy to do my part for them now.”

Roger Hogan recognizes this phase of his life as a growth spurt. With a new granddaughter—and billboard model—in his life, a retooled product line, an expanding showroom and service center, and his family by his side, he sees nothing but opportunity ahead. With lightning-fast service times and wallet-friendly offers like $10 Oil Change Tuesdays, he’s sure to bring his loyal following of customers on the journey right along with him. Visit Capistrano Toyota and you’ll see for yourself what drives their success.