Cycleogical

Your Ticket to Ride

Victoria Kertz

No gym? No problem. The great outdoors awaits and Cycleogical has your ticket to ride. With hundreds of miles of South OC trails boasting picturesque views and vistas, now’s the time to gear up and get rolling. Whether you enjoy leisurely cruises with the family, want a challenging workout, or seek an opportunity to explore your surroundings while getting some fresh air, owners Bill and Melissa Mol will fit you with just the right bike to suit your needs.

Dana Point’s premier bike shop, conveniently located near La Plaza Park, is stocked with everything you’ll need to hit the open road. As the pandemic made its mark on every business this year, Bill and Melissa anticipated a surge in demand for cycling and prepared for the eventuality that followed. In early February, the Mol’s staffed up and ramped up inventories to meet the needs of the local community, but the level of interest even surpassed their projections. When gyms and offices closed, customers poured in for everything from bike maintenance to road bikes and e-bikes. Mountain bikes flew off the racks, and in just the first four days of California’s lockdown, the most affordable models were completely sold out.

With inventories replenished, Bill is thrilled to see a continued enthusiasm for cycling. As he points out, you can ride year-round in Southern California while getting a workout and enjoying the outdoors. He and Melissa are passionate about promoting healthy lifestyles, and the resurgence in cycling (or riding, as mountain bikers say) has been fueled by the recent desire for alternatives to indoor or densely packed activities.

It was a shared passion for biking that led the Mols to say goodbye to corporate jobs and open Cycleogical, a name that Melissa coined. “We’ve always wanted to do our own thing,” Melissa says. “We’re lucky to have a great staff and a good sense of family,” she adds.

Cyclelogical offers all manner of bikes, from sleek road frames to electric styles and rugged mountain varieties, as well as every accessory and part a cyclist could imagine. With an unprecedented demand for maintenance and repairs in past months, Bill says parts like tubes and tires are difficult to secure, so he proactively sources them from all over the country. It’s this level of commitment that enables Cycleogical to offer a high level of service, such as a quick, 24 to 48 hour turnaround for repairs.

Their service team (some of whom have been there since doors opened) are an integral part of the customer loyalty the company has cultivated. The newest addition to the service department isn’t a person, though; it’s a heavy-duty lift that allows the team to service and repair e-bikes, which typically weigh too much for other shops to handle. In fact, the Mols are in the development stage of a store-branded e-bike they expect will be available next year.

Cycleogical is also finding creative ways to host organized charity rides like it’s done in the past. The Mols have sponsored annual events such as the Dana Point Grand Prix and Kids on Wheels, both of which raise funds for new bikes that are donated to the Boys and Girls Club of the South Coast Area. Due to social distancing guidelines, the Mols have opted to sponsor a Virtual Ride Challenge this year. Proceeds will benefit the Boys and Girls Club, and will also be used to incentivize kids to participate by offering a range of prizes. “We want to encourage kids to get outside,” Melissa says of the new event. “They say it only takes three weeks for healthy lifestyle changes to become habits.” Fortunately, the same is true for adults!

Start your cardio routine with a new bike or check one out for a family member. Premium brands like Cannondale, Santa Cruz, Yeti, and Pivot are in stock and waiting for you at Cycleogical. And with the holidays right around the corner, it’s the perfect place to shop local and support a family-owned business.

No matter what kind of bike the cyclist in your life rides, Cycleogical has a high-tech accessory, helmet, or car rack to give this season. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will help you make the best decision, and don’t forget to say hello to the resident, shop dog, Ryder. The sweet, standard poodle is always on hand when the Mols are in the shop.

Cyclelogical
34102 La Plaza A, Dana Point
949.542.4777 • CyclelogicalBikes.com

Instagram: @cycleogical
Facebook: @Cycleogical
Twitter: @itsCycleogical
YouTube: Cycleogical Channel

Top Docs 2020

Advanced Center For Sports & Musculoskeletal Medicine

Advanced Dermatology

Cold Rush Wellness

Dr David Steenblock DO

Elite Vein Institute

John Redmond Orthodontics

Michelle Hure MD MS

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Riviera Laser Studios

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MemorialCare

Leading The Way in Healthcare!

If you are looking for top-rated physicians to keep your family healthy, MemorialCare Medical Group delivers. In addition to experienced and caring physicians, MemorialCare Medical Group opened a brand-new health center in Rancho Mission Viejo in the Sendero Marketplace this past December. This two-story, 26,000 square-foot, health center provides primary and specialty care to the residents of South Orange County, including:
• Primary Care
• Pediatric Care
• OB/GYN
• Sports Medicine
• X-Ray Services
• Breast Center
• Lab Draw Services

MemorialCare Medical Group strives to offer top-notch, personalized healthcare options to each and every community within the MCMG network. Mark Schafer, MD, CEO of MemorialCare Medical Group says, “Physicians at MemorialCare Medical Group are dedicated to delivering high-quality healthcare to patients. We also want to make accessing care as convenient as possible. That is our primary goal when planning new health centers.”

In order to develop long-lasting relationships with their patients, many MemorialCare Medical Group providers choose to live near the areas where they serve, so they can participate in community events and activities on a regular basis. The following primary care physicians and specialists practice out of the new Rancho Mission Viejo health center:
• Ian Bare, M.D. (Family Medicine)
• Candace Basich, M.D. (Family Medicine)
• Anthony Cho, M.D. (Family Medicine)
• Maryam Yazdanshenas, M.D. (Family Medicine)
• Trung Truong, M.D. (Pediatrics)
• Patricia Faraz, M.D. (OB/GYN)
• Arnold Cuenca, D.O. (Sports Medicine)

A Proud Member of MemorialCare
MemorialCare is a nonprofit integrated healthcare delivery system which includes four hospitals, two medical groups, a health plan and numerous outpatient health centers, imaging centers, surgery centers, physical therapy centers and dialysis centers. As a member of MemorialCare, MemorialCare Medical Group is dedicated to providing quality, compassionate care to patients in Orange and Los Angeles counties.

With healthcare locations across the Southland, MemorialCare Medical Group serves over 660,000 patients annually. Overall, the group includes roughly 250 physicians practicing in areas such as: internal medicine, family medicine, pediatrics, pulmonology, gastroenterology, neurology and more.

When you are weighing your healthcare options, look to MemorialCare Medical Group. You can trust its family of physicians to take care of yours.

MemorialCare
30492 Gateway Place
Rancho Mission Viejo
MemorialCare.org/RMV

Client Protection Group

by Victoria Kertz

Do you have buyer’s remorse from a timeshare purchase? If you fell in love with a vacation destination and thought a timeshare would be a great way to save money on future trips, chances are you’ve had second thoughts since making that investment. Often, overarching promises and high-pressure sales tactics translate into an underwhelming experience and feelings of regret.

If you’re stuck in a timeshare contract and no longer want the baggage, Client Protection Group, LLC can assist. Whether ownership no longer fits your lifestyle or the financial burden is weighing you down, attempting to get out from under it can be a daunting process. With the help of a professional timeshare elimination service, you can break free. Michael Cromie, founder of Client Protection Group, knows the industry well and his team has successfully negotiated thousands of terminations in a straightforward, transparent, and legal way.

I had the opportunity to speak with Michael about his company and to gain insight about how its services benefit timeshare owners.

Q: How does Client Protection Group  assist owners who are financially bound  under a timeshare contract?

A: Whether a buyer is current or in arrears on a mortgage, we negotiate with the developer to help the client exit the contract. We gather some information, provide it to the developer for review and work toward termination without impacting the client’s credit score in the process.

Q: Does your company help customers sell timeshare units?

A: Unfortunately, selling a timeshare in the secondary market isn’t a viable option. Generally, they have little to no value and owners are left with two choices: enlist a company to help with contract termination or continue down the money pit.

Q: What does Client Protection Group charge?

A: Our fees vary based on the timeshare location, mortgage status, and property desirability. We are happy to provide a free consultation to discuss an owner’s unique set of circumstances to determine the best strategy.

Q: Are you able to assist every timeshare owner?

A: There are specific countries and developers that we aren’t able to negotiate with. We take the time to confirm those details up front and to research the unique aspects of each case before charging a fee.

Q: How long does the process take?

A: It typically takes around six months from beginning to end.

Q: What if someone doesn’t actually own a timeshare, but has questions on behalf of a friend or family member? Can they receive a complimentary consultation?

A: Yes, our customer service team will answer their questions and guide them through the process. We find that many of the inquiries we receive pertain to a caller’s parents. As there aren’t many online resources for exiting a timeshare, we do our best to provide the desired information or to point them in the right direction.

Q: How has COVID-19 affected your business?

A: Business hasn’t slowed and we always accept new clients. All of our documents can be signed electronically and my staff has had the ability to work from home during the shutdown.

Our Costa Mesa office is open again and we have implemented safety measures to keep employees and customers safe. If clients aren’t comfortable coming to the office, we can easily conduct business online and over the phone to accommodate them.

Q: Why should a timeshare owner choose Client Protection Group?

A: We have negotiated thousands of timeshare terminations and guarantee to work on a case until it’s resolved. We pride ourselves on a 100% success rate. Our services are priced competitively and we work quickly. What may take other companies 18 months, we complete in a fraction of the time.

Even if you’re still on the fence about your timeshare, the friendly and knowledgeable staff at Client Protection Group will answer your questions and help you find a solution that best suits your needs. Please visit ClientProtectionGroup.com or call (949) 426-7599 to learn more.

Client Protection Group
(949) 426-7599
ClientProtectionGroup.com

Fairmont Schools

Established 1953

Leveraging Lessons Learned … and Igniting Innovation
The landscape of education evolved once again on July 17 when the governor issued a directive concerning when Orange County schools would be able to reopen with students on campus. While many schools struggle to keep up with the rapid changes brought about by COVID-19, the leaders of Fairmont Schools feel their five campuses — including the new preschool through grade 12 location in San Juan Capistrano — are uniquely positioned to pivot and thrive in this challenging time.

Experience Plus Innovation
Voted Orange County’s Best Private School for five consecutive years, Fairmont has been a leader in private school education since its founding in 1953. Nearly 70 years of experience equates to many lessons learned. When the winds of education shift, as they are right now, no school is better-equipped to respond than Fairmont. As Orange County’s largest and oldest school group, Fairmont is poised to provide its innovative and individualized learning experience to students, regardless of the method of delivery.

Ready for Remote Learning
Building upon an already strong remote program, Fairmont has invested heavily in technology and training to elevate the level of instruction it can provide to students who will be learning from home this fall. Small classes, differentiated learning, and rigorous curriculum are part of its “tried and true” formula for producing successful students of all ability levels. It’s a formula that has served students well for decades, and one that has been integrated into the school’s remote learning program.

Another factor that distinguishes Fairmont is the lengths its teachers and staff go toward caring for the overall well-being of students. “This has always been important, but perhaps never more so than it is right now,” says Chad Jackson, Fairmont’s president. “Supporting our students’ social and emotional needs is key to our remote instruction.”

Prepared to Reopen
When Orange County schools are cleared to have students return, Fairmont will open the doors of its new San Juan Capistrano campus with a plan that ensures safety is paramount and students come first. At that time, Fairmont will be offering in-person instruction — five days a week and full days with experienced teachers, further differentiating itself from almost every other school in South Orange County.

Fairmont’s teachers and administrators have been hard at work researching best practices for reopening, from sanitation and logistics to teacher training and technology. The school’s Reopening Task Force continues to consult extensively with medical and education experts, while monitoring local, state and federal guidelines to ensure its campuses can open safely. That plan includes everything from “the basics” (such as the use of social distancing, face coverings, and rigorous sanitation) to incorporating physical enhancements (such as the installation of touchless restroom fixtures).

“We are living through very challenging times, but Fairmont’s focus hasn’t shifted,” says David Jackson, Fairmont’s Chairman. “Our students come first, and our teachers and staff have been working tirelessly to ensure everyone’s return to school exceeds expectations — regardless of whether a child learns from home or in the classroom.”

Fairmont is now enrolling preschool through 12th grade students for the 2020-21 school year across its family of schools in Anaheim, Anaheim Hills, North Tustin and San Juan Capistrano. To learn more, please visit FairmontSchools.com or call 714.234.2771 to schedule a tour.

ANAHEIM • ANAHEIM HILLS • NORTH TUSTIN • SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
714.234.2771 • FAIRMONTSCHOOLS.COM

Gelson’s

LIFE TASTES BETTER HERE ^™

With families cooking at home more than ever, purchasing groceries at a trusted and familiar supermarket provides comfort in these uncertain times. For over 65 years, Gelson’s has served Southern California shoppers with an enthusiasm for food of the highest quality while delivering impeccable customer service and a unique, in-store experience.

Each Gelson’s Market features the full amenities of a traditional supermarket, with the local flavor of a neighborhood store. On a daily basis, buyers source the ripest produce, best cuts of meat and freshest seafood available. Grocery experts curate a selection of gourmet and specialty items from around the world to perfectly fit their customers’ needs, and chefs offer a full menu of sophisticated recipes.

The essence of Gelson’s Markets is summed up in its mission statement: to make shopping anywhere else unacceptable for consumers who value quality products, cleanliness, convenience, and personal service. “Our goal is to provide customers with an experience equal to that of top restaurants, with the best customer service and quality of any supermarket in town,” says Gelson’s President & CEO Rob McDougall. “Our success is based solely on the loyalty of customers who share our passion for incomparable quality, attentive service and immaculate presentation.”

McDougall wants customers to feel the difference from the moment they drive on to one of their lots. Gelson’s takes pride in offering well-stocked stores, professional and courteous interactions with knowledgeable associates, and speedy checkouts so that guests can be on their way quickly. Gelson’s also provides a grocery delivery service and scheduled order pick up for added convenience and ease.

One of the company’s newest locations, on the corner of La Pata Parkway and Ortega Highway in Rancho Mission Viejo, features the artfully displayed selection of products you’re accustomed to seeing at Gelson’s alongside a host of amenities you may not have expected. This store is Orange County’s first to offer The Dunes Juice & Smoothies — a cold-pressed juice bar kiosk featuring delicious and healthy blends of fresh and organic fruits and vegetables. The new Wolfgang Puck Build-Your-Own Pizza concept allows shoppers to personalize store-baked pizzas from a tasty selection of a la carte toppings for a quick family meal. Enjoy an authentic European-style bakery experience complete with Parisian cakes, pastries, cookies and more at the Viktor Benes Bakery and Coffee Bar. Customers also appreciate the accessibility of the in-store pharmacy and full-service floral department — providing both custom & ready-made gift baskets.

Gelson’s Markets is taking measures to ensure your health and safety as you shop. To assist customers with disabilities, caregivers and those aged 60+, stores are offering early access, between 7 and 8 a.m., prior to the hours of operation for the general public. Safe distancing procedures, contactless payment options, cashier barriers, regular and thorough cleanings, and mandatory masks for employees, vendors and guests are just some of the safeguards being implemented for your peace of mind. For those who prefer an online shopping option, please visit Gelsons.com to place your order for delivery or pick up.

Gelson’s successful recipe of concierge-level service, customer-centric offerings, and a connection with the community, has created a devout following that spans more than a half-century. Mr. McDougall adds, “We appreciate being a part of your family’s choices, and we look forward to the opportunity to serve you in our stores.”

Gelson’s  |  Rancho Mission Viejo |  Laguna Beach |  Irvine |  Newport |  Dana Point |  Gelsons.com

Paws Pet Resorts

An Oasis for Your Pup

Paws Pet Resorts was opened by Chris Pernick in 2005 with a simple idea — create a really fun, safe, and clean environment for dogs. The professional staff has extensive training in dog behavior and is comprised of dog lovers who are committed to treating your dog like a member of the family.

Chris believes that most dogs crave and need socialization with other dogs, so Paws offers play groups for both daycare and boarding guests. For dogs that prefer only human interaction, Paws provides private play activities designed with their needs in mind. All activities can be viewed on “live” doggie cams throughout the facility and in private boarding rooms.

As a family-owned business, Chris reinvests profits back into the company’s facilities, her employees and the community. Chris is a big supporter of several local dog rescue groups. Over the last 15 years, she and Paws have rescued and re-homed over 400 dogs.

During the pandemic, Chris and her two locations have struggled — like so many other small businesses in our community. She’s thankful, however, to have the loyalty and support of her customers during this period of uncertainty. As a gesture of appreciation, Chris received a donation from a longtime customer for a virtual doggie daycare session to reunite her four-legged companion with the Paws staff. “We’ve had customers bring in lunch for the staff throughout the stay-at-home order. I just can’t thank them enough,” shared Chris.

Fortunately, Paws Pet Resorts has been deemed an essential business and is open for boarding, daycare, training and grooming. Paws closely follows the social distancing guidelines outlined by local government officials and health experts, including curbside pick-up and drop-off, so you can stay safe and your dog can have some fun.

For more information or to book a session call, 800.964.7297. For behind-the-scenes sneak peeks of life at Paws, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Chris is grateful to all of her loyal customers and looks forward to seeing her four-legged clients again soon. The company slogan says it all; “We hope your best friend will Stay ‘n Play at Paws Pet Resorts.”

Paws Pet Resorts
1285 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente
20641 Pascal Way, Lake Forest
800.964.7297
PawsPetResorts.com

Acting Academy for Kids

PARENTS & KIDS RAVE THAT AA4K IS THE BEST IN THE OC!

By Victoria Kertz

It all started with Peter Pan — not the animated movie, but a live children’s production that Stephen Zygo auditioned for many years ago. He was cast in the role of Smee, the villainous Captain Hook’s lovable sidekick, which sparked his lifelong dedication to the performing arts.

Zygo, a graduate of SUNY Cortland’s very first musical theatre program, founded and operates the dynamic Acting Academy for Kids (AA4K). As one of Orange County’s most renown children’s after-school theatre and summer camp programs, it offers a variety of performance classes for all ages. Zygo recently opened the company’s flagship location in Mission Viejo, complete with soundproofed lesson rooms, an expansive dance studio and a state-of-the-art theatre showcasing a stunning LED lighting wall and seating for 120 people.

It’s here that kids can really sink their teeth into the arts and get a comprehensive education in an array of performance mediums, something Zygo is passionate about bringing to the community. Kids can focus on the popular disciplines of voice, dance, acting or music, but also have the opportunity to learn the technical side of live theatre. AA4K’s behind-the-scenes education in theater production includes light and sound design and a Junior Directors program, allowing participants to enjoy a truly hands-on experience in what occurs off-stage.

AA4K is also one of the few performing arts centers for kids that offer a TV and Film program and a recording studio. Artistic Director, Monica Cortez, is dedicated to comprehensive youth offerings that meet the interests of children both in front of the camera and in areas that support the creative process. Zygo says that some of the film opportunities at the new Mission Viejo location will even enable kids to receive IMDB credit.

AA4K might be best known, however, for its long-running summer camp program, now entering its 12th season. This year, Zygo and his team are offering camps in several Orange County locations: at the new Mission Viejo theatre, the historic Cabrillo Playhouse in San Clemente and at the Lyceum Village in Irvine — a children’s after-school enrichment campus that has its own theatre.

“Summer camps are a wonderful opportunity to ‘test-drive’ the arts,” Zygo says.

Kids can choose from four classes: music, acting, dance or fusion, which is a combination of all three. Students will work together to produce a full-scale mini-musical, all in one week. This year, Aladdin, Frozen-Solid 2, The Greatest Showman and others are available for kids ages 4 to 14. Each show rotates between AA4K’s three summer camp locations.

“We really try to make sure the kids get as much stage time as possible,” shares Zygo. “Casts are kept small so that we keep kids engaged,” he adds. With intimate cast sizes, children have the chance to play two to four roles in each production.

Camp instruction is provided by a staff of experienced, returning teachers — veterans of Zygo’s academy and performing artists program themselves. “Our staff is really amazing, especially our teachers, since they are dual-focused. Many of them are teaching artists who still perform. They typically also have degrees in the arts,” he says. A passionate group of high school and college students add another layer of assistance. Most of them are former students of Zygo’s as well.

“A lot of the kids that were former AA4K students are now applying for positions with me,” Zygo says with a smile. The entire staff, whether permanent or for summer only, are Livescanned and CPR certified to ensure the safety of everyone involved, he says. “All three venues are kid-safe and family-safe,” Zygo adds. The buildings are also made to be inclusive and safe so that parents have peace of mind.

Whether your child is showing a new interest in the performing arts or is honing their musical skills, Acting Academy for Kids is a welcoming place to learn, improve and create memories that will last a lifetime. Summer camp registration is now open for 2020. Please visit ActingAcademyForKids.com/summer-camp for more information and registration.

“We want kids to have a great summer with us,” Zygo says. “Whether it’s one week or more!”

ACTING ACADEMY FOR KIDS | AGES 4-17 | ActingAcademyForKids.com | 949.427.0072

Life Behind the Gates of Reata Glen

Orange County’s Newest Senior Living Community

Since Reata Glen opened its doors six months ago, residents have made the community a home of their own by creating new traditions that will remain for decades to come.

From the holiday Gingerbread Village to the New Year’s Eve Casino event, residents and team members are joining together to create memories that will sustain over time. 

“My life has been truly wonderful since I made the move to Reata Glen,” said resident Vicki Trotter. “I’ve met so many wonderful people, and I’m enjoying all the amenities and activities.”

Trotter is one of the hundreds of residents who call Orange County’s newest Life Plan Community home. Reata Glen, located at 2 Las Estrellas Loop in Rancho Mission Viejo, offers 480 residential living homes, with dozens of unique floor plans to meet the needs and desires of today’s seniors. Residential options include one- to three-bedroom townhomes, and two- to three-bedroom single story homes with attached garages. Every residence comes complete with a fully appointed modern kitchen featuring elegant appliances, as well as other upscale interior finishes and customization options.

“Reata Glen is the perfect way to celebrate the area’s vibrant and active older adults,” said Reata Glen Executive Director Suzanne Nasraty. “And our community will evolve to continue to serve and meet the needs of seniors.”

Retirement on Your Terms
In Orange County, more than 13% of the population has already reached their senior years, a number that will continue to climb as baby boomers age. Reata Glen is providing additional options and amenities for current residents, as well as meeting the changing desires of the newest generation of seniors. 

“When I talk to others about my move to Reata Glen, people tend to say, ‘I’m not ready to move in just yet,’” said Trotter. “My response is, ‘You don’t know you’re ready for it, but if you wait too long, it’s going to be too late to enjoy everything Reata Glen has to offer.’ Now is the time to come here so you can enjoy it.”

As a Life Plan Community, Reata Glen will offer a full continuum of quality care at the adjacent health center, which is slated to open later this year. Residents will have convenient access to assisted living, memory care, and long-term care in a skilled nursing center – if they ever need it.

Trotter says the care options were crucial in her decision-making process. She had experience taking care of her mother in her latter years and remembers the toll it took on her and her family.

“I see my decision to move into Reata Glen as a plus for my family,” Trotter explained. “They don’t have to worry about me here. I’ve already made this decision for myself, so they don’t have to make it for me.”

Expect More from Retirement
As a master-planned community, Reata Glen was carefully designed to provide thoughtful connections, meaningful gathering spaces, and expansive views of the surrounding open space preserves.

The 60-acre campus provides a maintenance-free lifestyle for residents, who enjoy vast views of the surrounding valley as they experience an active and engaging lifestyle.

Reata Glen offers more than 200 activities and amenities, including a movie theater, performing arts theatre, a fitness center and spa, an open-air pool, multiple dining venues, billiards and card rooms, gardening areas, and walking and cycling trails with access to San Juan Creek Trail, leading directly to Doheny State Beach.

“I take all the fitness classes,” said Trotter. “They offer aerobics, stretch and tai chi. That pretty much fills my schedule every weekday. I invite people to come and see Reata Glen for themselves. It’ll change your entire outlook on senior living. Living here is a meaningful and special way to enjoy your life.” 

To learn more about floor plan options, pricing and location, we invite you to visit ReataGlen.com or call 855-255-6841.

Reata Glen Retirement Community | 28805 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano | 855.255.6841 | ReataGlen.com

Stoneface Inc.

The Sculpted Rock Artisans

by Veronica Badzey

Are you ready for the backyard of your dreams? Is it time to take the plunge and build the dazzling swimming pool you’ve always wanted? Let Mark Allen of Stoneface, Inc. transform your mundane yard into a magical oasis that’s guaranteed to deliver unlimited fun and a lifetime of memories.

Make an investment in your home for years to come. Become the house on the block where all the kids want to play. Host pool parties and gatherings with instant entertainment provided by hours of splashing, swimming and fun in the sun. Mark Allen can appreciate the allure of a stunning pool and with good reason: for over 30 years, he’s designed and built natural-looking rockscapes and water features surrounding swimming pools that rival those found at the finest resorts. He brings undeniable talent to the table and can create various backyard features with sculpted concrete. He’s constructed everything from towering waterslides to enormous panda habitats (and 15 other exhibits) at the San Diego Zoo to intimate backyard grottos in some of the region’s most beautiful backyards.

Mark’s three decades in the industry equip him with a with a discerning eye and a skillset that’s unparalleled in Orange County. “I’ve been doing this for so many years and I always strive for my new projects to be better than the last one,” he says. “If it doesn’t look extremely natural, you might as well not even do it.” That attention to detail is what’s propelled Stoneface, Inc. to the top of its craft.

In the 1980’s, Allen got his start in masonry, constructing streams, but found he had a knack for creating intriguing hardscapes from sculpted concrete. He founded Boulderscape in 1990, a San Juan Capistrano-based company which grew significantly after working on government and military projects over the years. In 2014, he sold that piece of the business to his son.

Mark launched Stoneface, Inc. with four of his most talented rock sculptors to exclusively design high-end residential pools surrounded by rocks, waterfalls, hidden caves, swim-up bars and fast-moving, twisty waterslides. In other words, the fun stuff. He runs the business with his daughter, Rachel Ferguson. “She is the smartest woman I’ve ever known,” Mark says with dad-like effusiveness. “She’s really incredible with finances and customer service. All of our customers work with her and she’s hyperfocused on responding to the needs and concerns of our clients.”

When you contact Stoneface for a consultation, Mark meets with you personally. “I take the project from the first meeting until its completion,” he says. “I design, sell, and manage the art direction. I visit every project, every day.” Allen partners with various pool contractors who build the pool shell and install the electrical and plumbing, while he oversees the entire project and enhances the pool with artificial rock installations. It’s this dedication and hands-on approach that’s designated Allen as one of the top pool designers in the country. His work can be seen all over the U.S. and even in megadream homes in Hawaii.

“I truly want each job that has my name attached to it to be the best one I’ve ever done,” Mark says proudly. To ensure this, he covers safety and functionality with clients before diving into the potential beauty of a pool. “When I design a project, I view it from various perspectives, typically the kitchen or another family gathering place,” he adds. His work is breathtaking from any angle, but he knows it’s the customer who will be looking at it every day.

Mark listens carefully to a client’s ideas, wants and desires when developing their overall design. “I like to give them lots of options,” says Mark. “Part of the fun in my job is coming up with exciting, marvelous ideas then seeing the final outcome. I love what I do and it brings me joy when I’m able to create something special for families to enjoy.”

What about existing pools or one that hasn’t been used in years? For an artisan like Allen, an old pool is a blank canvas waiting to become a masterpiece. Recently, he took one large backyard and resort-ified it with a 2,000 square foot cave, a locker room, steam room and sauna. The adjoining pool had multiple waterfalls, two waterslides and a swim-up grotto. Staycation, anyone?

Stoneface Inc. | 949.370.7576 | Office@StonefaceInc.com | StonefaceInc.com