south county magazine may/june 2012

Business Showcase:Dial One Windows 24

Spotlight On:Laguna Niguel Auto 26

In Pursuit of thePerfect Cut: Victoria Vannini 28

Giving Back in South County 30

Californians for the Cure: Prop 29 32

Giving Back in South County 34

News and Notes 40

Casanova Ristorante and Cocktail Lounge 42

The Importance of Being "Bankable" 10

Spotlight On: Beacon Bay Carpet 12

Cover: Paradise Automotive Group 14

Medicare Advantage Plan Networks 16

Business Showcase: REUSE Jeans 18

M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 2contents

14 Cover Feature: ParadiseAutomotive Group

Spotlight On: Preferred Kitchenand Bath 20

Best Baked Goodsin the Business:Donna B's Bakery 22

MAY / JUNE 2012 4 SOUTH COUNTY MAGAZINE

SOUTH COUNTYSOUTH COUNTYM A G A Z I N E

May / June 2012

South County Magazine serves the communitiesof San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Dana

Point, Laguna Niguel and Aliso Viejo

We will strive to continually improve with each edi-tion and welcome feedback from our

readers. For questions or comments, please e-mail the editor at [email protected]

"What a great magazine!!!!! With all the advertising I have done for Salon Bamboo overthe last seven years, I love the response I have gotten from South County Magazine.Whether you are a new business or existing ... It's great when your customers noticeyour advertising!" - Jamie Springer, Owner of Salon Bamboo and Del MarBeauty Supply, San Clemente

PublisherCommunity Publications LLC.

EditorJody Robinson (714) 596-6611

[email protected]

Art DirectorDavid Perez

Editorial AssistantChelsea Murphy

Account ExecutivesAnthony ArcurioMichael CupicMarlo MorrisonLorn Walberg

Distribution ManagersRolando RuizDavid Starr

Advertising Inquiries(714) 469-3495

Editorial ContributorsStephanie FrischBarbara KimlerCandice Koontz

Betsy SanzLarry Thomas

Contributing PhotographerCover Image by

Anthony Holguin,Raymond Photography

www.raymondphotography.com


“I really appreciate the help and support offered by Jody and her staff. Togetherwe came up with not only a successful ad and editorial, but have generated

enough business to increase our staff size. In the current state of the economy, it’sone thing to survive but thanks to South County Magazine we are thriving.”

- Candice Loren, C. Loren Studios, Dana Point

"My advertising placement in South County Magazine has already made adifference in my business. I am able to reach a large number of potential clients.The editorial opportunity was a great way to introduce The Worth Collection tomy target audience in a way that allowed me to share my 'story' andshowcase my services."- Lesley Boyer, The Worth Collection, San Clemente

"I've been using media advertising for 5 years. I'm used to having to wait a fewmonths for any phone calls when I start in a new publication. I was so pleasantly

surprised when my phone started ringing from the very FIRST ad that I placedwith South County Magazine. Jody really has done a great job for me."

- Stephanie Frisch, Insurance 101

“The same afternoon the publication went out into circulation, I received a calland signed on a new customer. The magazine looks great and allows me to target

specific areas that we haven’t had much exposure into previously. We look for-ward to a long and prosperous relationship with South County Magazine.”

– Mike Dougherty, Pacific Water Solutions, San Clemente

“I know when South County Magazine goes out into circulation because ourphone starts ringing. We love it!” - Scott E. West, D.D.S.

"Simply put, advertising in South County Magazine works. My participation has resultedin new customers and the process couldn't have been easier. Not only did the magazineoffer design services at no charge, they created a great ad without needing much inputfrom me because they took the time to really understand my business. The resulting addoes a great job of getting my 'message' out - I'm very pleased."- Betty Darroch, Mission Viejo Wigs, Mission Viejo

Hidden in a historic district, I wondered how anyone would find us. Of course,there's nothing like word-of-mouth, but when we decided to advertise, I felt thatSouth County Magazine was a good fit since it highlights all the best things to seeand do in the OC. Sure enough, we began hearing from our visitors that they sawus in the magazine and decided to check out our zoo. South County Magazine iscertainly something to crow about!" - Carolyn Franks, owner ZOOMARS Pet-

ting Zoo, San Juan Capistrano

"We have been involved with South County Magazine since its first edition in January2011. Monaco Jewelers was featured as the cover of the inaugural issue and weare still receiving positive feedback from customers - new and existing - who remem-ber seeing our showcase. Additionally, we are very happy with our advertising rela-tionship with South County Magazine and look forward many years of mutualsuccess and continued growth"

- Ron Pashaian, Monaco Jewelers, San Juan Capistrano

ADVERTISER TESTIMONIALS

"I keep hearing that print media is going away, but I can't find any evidence of thatbased on my experience in advertising with South County Magazine. For my busi-ness, it's been phenomenal - every time the magazine goes out, I consistently re-ceive calls that have resulted in a steady stream of new clients. I couldn't be happierwith my placement and encourage other local business owners looking for avenuesto increase their customer base to look no further than South County Magazine." -

Candice Lopez, owner, Call in the Crew

Villa Ford’s Dealer Principal and C.I.O.(Chief Inspirational Officer)

Family Owned & Operated for 42 Years • Located off the 55 near the 91

Peggy Baldwin-Butler

Peggy Baldwin-Butler

with explaining the differences between the tax returns and the fi-nancial statements.

Further, the accountant should prepare compiled or reviewed finan-cial statements each year, to further enhance bankability. Just sub-mitting QuickBooks reports will cause the bank to focus on taxreturns which usually do not show as favorable a picture.

Building a relationship with the right banker is another key to bank-ability. Look into the lending policies of the bank before making adeposit commitment. Show the banker financial statementsandshare your plans. Ask how the bank can help you. You may be sur-

prised at all the tools the bank can offer you.Once the relationship is established, meet reg-

ularly with the banker. Keeping up to date is important.

When the time comes for a line of credit or term loan, your bankerwill assist you in selecting the right loan to meet your needs. Manycompanies wind up with the wrong type of financing which can becounter productive for your business. Matching the loan purposewith the correct type of loan is critical. For example, using a short-term line of credit for a long-term purpose can put unnecessarypressure on cash flow. A term loan, in this case, would be more ap-propriate and helpful to you.

A growing business needs an attorney, an accountant, a insurance bro-ker, and, of course, a banker on its team. Improving the company’sbankability can contribute greatly to its long-term financial health.

One of the frustrating things about being a banker isnot being able to approve a loan for a customer be-cause they have adopted a strategy that minimizestheir taxes without considering the affect on their

borrowing power.

Borrowing power is important to the long term financialhealth of any business. Why; because it is the second mostimportant source of new capital for small businesses. Thethree top sources of new capital for small businesses areowner’s equity (33%), bank loans (20%), and tradecredit (15%), according to Professor Ken Carow ofIndiana University.

If your company is growing, you need working capital to fuelthat growth. To be “bankable” you need to show strong netincome and net operating income (EBITDA) over severalyears. The bank needs to see that your company has theability to service the debt.

While banks appreciate a company’s future plans evi-denced by budgets and business plans, lending decisionsare made by reviewing financial history (tax returns andfinancial statements). Generally, banks will look at threeyears of history for larger loans.

Working with an accountant is important in balancing taxconsiderations with bankability. The accountant can help

Larry Thomas is the First Vice President and South County Regional Manager of IndependenceBank. Independence Bank serves communities throughout Orange County, with regional offices inNewport Beach, Fountain Valley, San Juan Capistrano and Tustin and is a member of the FDIC.

For more information on Independence Bank, please go to www.Independence-Bank.netor call (888) 414-0500. Contact Larry direct at (949) 373-1578

Working with an accountant is important in balancing taxconsiderations with bankability. The accountant can help with explaining the

differences between the tax returns and the financial statements.

by C. Lawrence “Larry” Thomas

The Importance of Being “Bankable”



For Ken and Linda Rogers, their Laguna Niguel-basedbusiness - Beacon Carpet Cleaning – started with adream (of operating a business together), a vision (tocreate a cleaning and restoration company that peoplecan trust to have the highest education, the bestequipment, the most knowledgeable staff and the

highest level or professionalism) and a commitment to buildinglong-term relationships with their customers.

Twenty-four years later, the couple has clearly succeeded – asevidenced by the long list of satisfied customers and word-of-mouth referrals that have helped grow the family-run operation.

SPOTLIGHT ON:

Beacon Carpet Cleaning

Connect with Ken and Linda by calling (949) 496-6079 or visit www.beaconcarpetcleaning.com

Because they understand that “flooring is one of the largest purchases aperson makes for their home,” Beacon Carpet Cleaning specializes in help-ing its customers get the maximum value from their carpet, oriental andspecialty rugs, upholstery, natural stone, and tile and grout with multiplecleaning methods designed to ensure that the flooring is maintained ac-cording to the manufacturer’s warranty.

“We recently doubled the size of our area rug cleaning facility so that wenow have one of Orange County’s only full-immersion area rug pools,” saysKen. “This allows us to get complete odor removal from urine-damagedrugs. We also added the latest pre-agitation equipment and a custom dryingboard to discourage shape distortion in specialty rugs.”

In the past year, Beacon Carpet Cleaning has also added a green line of car-pet cleaning that is non-toxic, biodegradable, leaves no soil-attractingresidue and is certified to be superior in cleaning for synthetic or woolfibers.

“We offer a 100% guarantee that if any spots reappear, we will gladly comeback out and re-treat that area within a month of the cleaning,” says Ken.“If you are still unimpressed, we will refund the cost of our cleaning. Ourgoal is for you to have the most outstanding service experience ever!”

“Mention South County Magazine and it will be our pleasure to give you100 square feet of any service completely FREE.”

It’s always easy to tell a Bostonian. The accent, the big per-sonality, the dry sense of humor can be amusing – evenalarming – for we sensitive Southern Californians. But theBostonian’s tendency to tell it like it is can be more thanvaluable in certain situations… say, for instance, when buy-

ing a car.

Meet John Paradise, a Boston transplant who fourteen yearsago brought little more than his young family and his interestin cars to San Clemente, just to give life in the snowless part ofthe country a try. “A try” turned into “a home” when Johnstarted to fully appreciate the passion that Orange County res-idents felt for luxury automobiles. One car at a time, John foundgood deals and passed hassle-free savings on to a select clien-tele. Today, Paradise Automotive Group is a full-sized dealershipwith a staff of ten, specializing in previously owned luxury ve-hicles and personalized, individual service.

“These days, clients are so well educated and aware of whatis available for how much, we don’t get into the hassle of back-and-forth haggling over price,” says John, who far prefers thetell-it-like-it-is tack. “We price the car correctly and fairly, thenfocus on making it a good experience for our customer.”

Paradise Automotive GroupA luxury pre-owned vehicle dealership that(refreshingly) tells it like it is. by Betsy Sanz

photography by Anthony Holquin, Raymond Photography


Connect with John Paradise and Paradise Automotive Group by calling (949) 347-2522, and by checking theirwide selection of affordably priced, quality pre-owned luxury vehicles at www.jparadise.com

It’s the Paradise Automotive service-first approach that inspires thetrust that has kept clients coming back year after year, car after car.Many families are on their ninth and tenth cars purchased through Par-adise Automotive, havingmet John fourteen yearsago and deciding that theydidn’t want to purchase any-where else. It’s that sameprofessionalism and no-non-sense pricing that haveearned John and his staff aniche in servicing profes-sional athletes in the NHL,NBA and MLB, many ofwhom fly in from all over theU.S. and Canada to pick uptheir car from Paradise Au-tomotive. Since John andhis team make a priority ofthoroughly and accurately demonstrating the car via internet, emaiand phone, many times a client will arrive to pick up theiralready-purchased car, and it’s the first time they’ve seen it in person.Now, that’s trust.

As an extension of their commitment to zero hassle, Paradise Automo-tive Group also provides full-service maintenance on site, so customerscan conceivably stay with one trusted entity for the life of their car. With

ASE-certified technicians for allmakes and models, Paradise’s un-equivocal goal is to make you a cus-tomer for life.

This Spring marks one year thatParadise Automotive has been inits current location, a welcomingfacility in San Juan Capistranoright off the 5 Freeway. They willbe celebrating with customer ap-preciation events as well as spe-cial offers, so If you’re in themarket for a new-to-you vehiclewith style, make a point of check-ing their website for news. Or sim-

ply stop in to meet John and get a look at his collection ofmemorabilia from across professional sports (especially from theAnaheim Ducks, who have made John and Paradise Automotiveteam favorites).

Since John and his team make a priority ofthoroughly and accurately demonstrating thecar via internet, email and phone, many times a

client will arrive to pick up theiralready-purchased car, and it’s the first time

they’ve seen it in person. Now, that’s trust.



Many people have antiquated ideas about how a medical network functions in modern day MedicareAdvantage-Prescription Drug plans. (For the rest of this article to be referred to as: MAPD)

First off; let's define what a "Network" is.

A network is an association of physicians in private practice along with hospitals, labs and urgent carecenters. These types of networks, even though they are referred to as an "HMO" are very differentfrom the Kaiser/HMO structure. The MADP networks deal with independent, private-practice physi-cians that are part of a coordinated network that works together to promote excellence in patientcare. There are some really big networks here in Orange County. Most people that live in South OrangeCounty would want to go to Hoag, Mission or Saddleback hospitals. All of these hospitals participatein MAPD networks.

When I sit down with someone who is activating their Medicare Part B option for the first time (suchas turning 65 or retiring) or looking to enroll in an Advantage plan during the Annual Election Periodin the Fall, the first thing I ask is who their primary care physician is. The majority of the time theirphysician is already participating in a few Medicare Advantage plan networks. (Such as Monarch,MemorialCare (Formally Bristol Park), Greater Newport Physicians...just to name a few).

Many are concerned that their doctors will be upset if they go to a MAPD plan, as if they will be "cheat-ing" their doctor out of something. That is simply not the case. To quote one of the doctors that Iwork with, "As it turns out, the Medicare HMO capitation is often better for the physician than the feefor service reimbursement".....Capitation means the doctor gets paid MONTHLY when you enroll in aMAPD plan and have them listed as your primary care physician. This happens whether they see youor not! If you are on a supplemental plan with Original Medicare or just Original Medicare, they ONLYget paid when they see you! So for most doctors, a balanced "book of business (patients)" makes alot of sense for them economically.

The second concern I hear about from people is: THE REFERRAL PROCESS.

by Stephanie Frisch

Medicare Advantage Plan Networks

Understand that whether you're partof a MAPD plan or not, a heart spe-cialist (for example) will not see youwithout a referral from your primarycare-family physician, or some othersimilar type of doctor. Why? They'rebusy! They just don't have the time tosee every patient that THINKS theyneed to talk to them about their re-cent concerns. Specialists USE pri-mary care physicians as a screeningprocess. Referrals are also now doneentirely electronically. Most referralsdone in a MAPD plan happen immedi-ately and automatically. I like to tellpeople 48 hours however to antici-pate any unforeseen circumstances.If you're not participating in a net-work that has a streamlined, auto-mated process, it can take MUCHlonger for referrals.

The third concern is: COVERAGE OUTOF AREA. Yes, you are unable toschedule routine doctor visits, spe-cialist appointments or surgeries withdoctors that don't participate in yournetwork and aren't local. But if you'reon vacation and you need to go to anurgent care anywhere in the U.S.,you're covered! You'll pay a co-pay ofabout $30 and any RX's that you un-expectedly need should be coveredalso. If you are suddenly in need ofhospitalization you are covered any-where is the U.S. as well. (Providedyou enter the hospital through theEmergency Room.) Again, you'll havea small co-pay amount that is usuallyunder $100. Most MAPD plans alsocover INTERNATIONALLY and are un-limited in benefits (you are just re-sponsible for the emergency roomco-pay). If you were on a Medicaresupplemental plan however, you'relimited to being covered just 80%and the insurance company will onlypay up to $50,000.

This is just a brief overview on how aMAPD network is structured. My goalis to help people understand this im-portant information and the Medicareprocess better. If you'd like to learnmore, please feel free to contact mefor a complimen-tary consulta-tion for you or aloved one.

Stephanie Frisch is the owner of Insurance 101 and is an independent insurance broker dedicatedto helping others make "educated decisions" about their insurance choices when it comes toMedicare options, health insurance, life insurance, long-term care planning and annuities.

For answers to your questions or an in-home, no-fee consultation call (949) 351-2443

REUSE Jeans 1020 South Coast Hwy. • Laguna Beach • 949.715.0473 • www.reusejeans.com

Early in my writing career, I had theopportunity to interview many suc-cessful entrepreneurs for an OC-based regional business/lifestylepublication. While the scope of thefeatured businesses was diverse,

the owner/operators all shared an unerringpassion for their profession and a common be-lief that “if you love what you do, the moneywill follow.”

by Jody Robinson

It didn’t take long after meeting George Powell, founder of the Laguna Beach-basedREUSE Jeans (R.E.U.S.E. – Recycle. Environment. U. Save. Earth) for me to discover thathe was obviously cut from the same cloth (pun intended).

With years of experience in premium denim fabrication and a firm conviction that envi-ronmental awareness can coexist with fashion, George set about turning the garment in-dustry on its axis. With key contacts in textile mills overseas, George and his Chinesecounterparts have redefined the processes that go into manufacturing denim apparel –starting by focusing on the tons of discarded scrap denim that resulted after patternswere cut.

Toward that end, the company developed a means to “rework the scraps of raw material”with newly engineered machinery capable of a “soft opening of yarns,” allowing denimscraps to be cleaned, shredded and spun into new yarn.

“It seems like once I began down this path, everything came together to give rise to thisventure,” he says. “While getting a haircut in Hong Kong, I read an article about the world’swater shortages. Cotton is an inherently ‘thirsty” fabric – it takes a staggering 3,200 gal-lons of water to manufacture a single pair of jeans.

The same story applies to the dyes used to color the years – once the yarns were “bathed,”the dye was literally poured down the drain. George’s processes allow for 80% of thewater and 90% of the dye typically used in manufacturing to be recycled.

Even with eco-friendly practices in place,George knew that his concept wouldn’t trans-late to sales unless his company turned outgreat-fitting, fashion-forward designs. Enterseasoned technical and merchant designerMandie Slayman. Mandie developed the lineand her designs were a hit with customersfrom the start.

“The distinctive shape of our line is a form-fit-ting rise, defined by subtle, but deliberate de-tailing,” says Mandie. “REUSE offers jeans forboth men and women in a mix of washes, col-ors and cuts – from skinny to bell bottoms (andat $95 a pair for women and $125 for men, de-signer denim is far more affordable than itsless eco-friendly counterparts). Our entire col-lection of jeans, jackets, tops, skirts and shortsare all created from 80% recycled materials.”

REUSE Jeans are currently available at over450 retail locations across the country. Butlucky for those of us who live in South County,the company’s flagship store is just a stone’sthrow away.

Visit REUSE Jeans on South Coast Highway inLaguna Beach. Customers who mentionSouth County Magazine will receive a FREE$50 Gift Card toward the purchase of anyfull-priced merchandise.Not only is that a screaming deal – but you canliterally “step into a smaller carbon footprintone leg at a time.”

Clothes with a Conscience:REUSE Jeans



Mission Grill Opens!A remodel of the old Pedro's Tacos restaurant across from the Missionin San Juan Capistrano reveals a fast-casual restaurant concept, moreseating and a new menu including traditional Mexican fare, burgers,sandwiches and salads. For more info, call (949) 240.8055 orvisit www.missiongrillrescue.com

San Juan Summer Nites Concert SeriesHistoric Town Center Park31852 El Camino Real6 p.m. – 8 p.m.Third Wednesday of each month: June 20, July 18, August 15 and September 21Attendance is FreeThe concert offers live music, dancing, a youth activity areawhere kids can hang out, a expo where local businesses areable to network with the community, great food that can bepurchased from the local restaurants on site and a beer andwine wagon.For more info (949) 493–5911.

Dancing for a CauseThe San Clemente Sunrise Rotary Club pres-ents "Dancing for a Cause," a friendly dancingcompetition between local non-profit groups toraise money for their causes. Based on the hitTV show, "Dancing with the Stars," the semi-formal event will take place at The Hills Hotelon Friday, May 18. For more info, call MeryvnLaurie at (949) 584-4579.


You can get anything you want in life if you'll just help enoughother people get what they want." - Zig Ziglar, author andmotivational speaker

This is the underlying philosophyupon which David and Julie Allenbuilt their Lake Forest-based busi-ness. At Preferred Kitchen andBath, the Allens and their team“think like homeowners” askingthemselves "Knowing what weknow, what would we do if we werespending our own hard earnedmoney on this project?" and "If wewere the client, what would we wantto know and how would we want tobe treated?"

“We don't think like contractors orsalespeople even though we areboth,” says David. “It starts with theattitude of the owners, which becomes the company culture and in-evitably guides the day to day actions. We have attracted to oursmall firm a wonderful family of designers and craftsmen which inturn help our clients imagine what they want and then make it a re-ality. Are we perfect? Hardly, but you don't need to be perfect tobe "Best in Show.”

In 2003, David and his wife Julie saw an opportunity to bring theirinterests and skills together in interior design and renovation. Davidbrought over 40 years of experience in construction to the busi-ness, while his wife had worked for years in clothing design andmanufacturing.

“We believed the Orange County market was ready for a remodelingcompany that thought and behaved differently,” says David. “Manycompanies had operated here for a long time and had become com-

placent regarding the way they served homeowners. We believedwe could do better, which would improvepeople's remodeling experience andprovide us a good living.”

So far, the couple’s concept seems tohave served them well. Their full serv-ice interior design and remodeling firm,specializing in kitchen and bathroomremodels, has not only survived, butthrived in today’s challenging eco-nomic climate.

“As you work with us you will see thatwe are committed to helping you getwhat will make you happy and not justselling you a bunch of stuff to make abuck,” says David. “We have investedextensively in computers, softwareand displays so that you can get as

clear a picture as possible what your kitchen or bath will look likebefore you spend one red cent.”

David and his team of professionals understand that when you de-cide to remodel your kitchen or bathroom, you are paying for morethan just cabinets, counters, and fixtures. You are paying for design-ing, planning, scheduling, communicating and installing - a total re-modeling experience culminating in a rewarding outcome orfinished product.

Happy customers like Troy and Jill DeCamp of Mission Viejo attest tothe “Preferred” experience by saying that "Preferred Kitchen & Bathcertainly was the right choice for us. Right on schedule,right on budget. We had beautiful new kitchen cabinets and granitecountertops installed in 7 days and the cost was only $2,800more than the re-facing bids we had gotten. We couldn't be morepleased and recommend Preferred Kitchen & Bath to all our friends."

Are you dreaming of a beautiful kitchen or bath remodel that fits your budget and lifestyle? Experience the personalattention and professional service of the Preferred Kitchen & Bath team by calling 949.830.6300, stopping by theirshowroom at 22600 Lambert St., Bldg.A, Suite 709 in Lake Forest or visiting www.preferredkitchenandbath.com

Different by DesignPreferred Kitchen and Bath’s “back to basics” business philosophyhelps company thrive in today’s challenging economy by Jody Robinson

“

Connect with Donna by visiting the bakery at 26022 Cape Drive, Suite B in Laguna Niguel,by calling 949.367.0100 or by visiting www.donnab.com

Donna started out small, giving out samplesat local nail and hair salons. Before long, shewas so busy that she was forced to rent aspace at a local bakery to fulfill orders. Notlong after that, she bought the bakery and

the rest as

they say “is history.”Donna's businessmay have startedwith her signature cookiedough, but today, Donna B's Bakery also turns out one-of-a-kind seasonal cakes, special occasion cakes, beautiful weddingcakes, "new home cookie boxes," care packages and sweet treatsfor virtually every imaginable event.

Donna and her staff do cookie dough fundraising for local schools,churches, organizations and “anybody who has an entrepreneurialspirit who might need to make money.”

“I believe our business is different then other bakeries because Ilove to help fund raise our cookie dough and cookies,” says Donna.“I love to see people succeed by teaching them how they can raisemoney for their causes with our products. I believe what goesaround comes around. When you give, it comes back to you tenfold.I don't worry about being a millionaire on paper, but I would ratherbe a millionaire in my heart.”

In terms of growing a successful venture, Donna agrees that whilehaving the extra money on hand would be nice, everything goodcomes in its own time.

“I think most businesses think that they should be making tons ofmoney right away. I have tried to stay being a debt-free bakery. Itry not to overspend and keep within my means,” she says. “I reallywant to expand to more cookie dough fundraising. I believe nowafter being in business as many years as I have, I could possiblyfranchise Donna B’s Bakery. I also think I am ready to go into thegrocery stores and go nationwide into specialty stores.”

But for now, I have to say I’m prettyhappy Donna B’s is so easily accessible forthose of us lucky enough to live in South OC.Mention South County Magazine for the fol-lowing specials: Buy Six Cookies, Get SixFree!; $5 Off a Tub of Cookie Dough; and 10%Off Any Cake Order.

Named for its founder,Donna Bielke Billman,the Laguna Niguel-based operation turnsout what is arguablyamong THE best gour-

met cookies, cookie dough, customcakes, wedding cakes and yummydesserts in South County.

I just brought an assortment of hercookies home a few days ago and itwas all I could do to keep my kids(and my husband for that matter)from eating them all in one sitting.

They are so good, it’s not surpris-ing to find out that Donna’s entire business model started with herdough. As a single mother in 1987, Donna sold her cookie doughonce a month to fellow employees in order to earn extra money topay the bills.

Donna B’s Bakery:The Best BakedGoods in the Business

Donna B's Bakery is about to celebrate 19years in business this summer and I can’t

believe I only discovered it last year.by Jody Robinson



After nearly 30 years in operation, Dial One Windows/Renewalby Andersen of Orange County’s success can be credited toits unwavering commitment to customer service and qualityworkmanship.

“The product we offer is customer service,” says Charlie Gindele,president and founder of the Laguna Hills-based business. “We area customer-focused business and are always striving to deliver agreat customer experience. Residential window and door replace-ment just happens to be the method by which we deliver our cus-tomer service.”

Some entrepreneurs achieve success by seeking out opportunitieswithin their particular areas of expertise. For others, opportunitiespresent themselves in a seemingly natural progression of growththrough experience.

Charlie has apparently capitalized on both. The Philadelphia nativestarted working for his father in the industry at the age of 10. Helearned the trade and honed his skills every weekend and duringsummer vacations through high school.

The then-fledgling entrepreneur started his own operation while at-tending college. After graduation, Charlie “went into the businessfull-time, eventually working and traveling extensively while in theemploy of a large building products manufacturer. Southern Cali-fornia was a frequent destination and it wasn’t long before he “fellin love with Orange County.”

In 1983, Charlie resigned from his corporate job and headed west.The following year, he set up shop in Santa Ana and grew the oper-ation in that location for over a decade. In 1996, the companyopened a small showroom off Alicia Parkway in Laguna Hills. Sevenyears later, Dial One Windows had outgrown the small space and re-located again – this time to its current corporate offices and nearby6,500-square-foot showroom.

Dial One Windows“Our showroom is actually a design center where customers canbrowse at their leisure and get ideas and inspiration,” he says. “Weare the exclusive source for Renewal by Andersen windows anddoors, made by the replacement division of Andersen Corporation,a 109-year-old industry leader.”

According to Charlie, another defining characteristic that distin-guishes Dial One Windows from the competition is its “completeturnkey experience, including opening modifications, its own in-house door shop, wood working shop and paint shop” so that ittruly is a “one stop” experience for the customer.

Charlie also attributes his company’s success to “being able to at-tract and retain quality people in all phases of our business, fromsales and installation to administration – individuals who share ourphilosophy and desire to deliver excellent customer service.

Another source of pride for Charlie is his company's commitmentto "never lowering our standards despite other companies thatcome and go who focus mainly on offering low prices without anyregard to the quality of the products or service they offer. Theytake advantage of uninformed consumers." As a testament to DialOne's unwavering and relentless pursuit of high quality and cus-tomer service, this past January they were awarded the Renewalby Andersen ”Best of the Best“ award...given annually to only threelocations across the country that demonstrate outstanding home-owner satisfaction scores, operational excellence, leadership, salesgrowth and giving back to the communities that they work in.

“We have our niche in the market,” says Charlie, a “hands on”owner who personally meets with every customer. “We don’t tryto be all things to all people. We offer premium products with lotsof features and options professionally installed. We are satisfiedjust working within Orange County and we don’t plan on expandinggeographically anytime soon. We’ll add products that complementour current offerings as opportunities arise.”

by Jody Robinson

Customer service,quality workmanship:

Connect with Charlie and his team by visiting their showroom at 23052 Lake Forest Drive in Laguna Hills(Mon-Fri 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sun 12 noon – 4 p.m.), by calling 888.837.7241

or visit www.dialonewindows.com License No. 523043


In these challenging economic times, it’s great to hearsuccess stories of businesses that are not only surviving,but thriving. Such is the case of Laguna Niguel AutoCenter. A fixture in the South County automotive indus-try for over 42 years, Laguna Niguel Auto Center spe-cializes in all aspects of automotive work – from

regularly scheduled maintenance to heavy engine and trans-mission repairs on all makes and models of vehicles.

Its current owner Sergio Turcutto worked with the previousowner and founder Luis Sanchez for several years prior toSanchez’ retirement so the transition proved to be a smoothone. In addition to the managerial skills, business knowledgeand educational background in the automotive industry that

Laguna Niguel Auto Centerby Jody Robinson

To connect with Sergio, call (949) 582-2191, stop by 24062 Cape Drive in Laguna Niguel or visit www.niguelauto.com

SPOTLIGHT ON:

Sergio brought to the already well-respected operation, it is perhaps more im-portantly the work ethic, fair pricing and honesty – traits he shares with theprevious ownership – to which Sergio can credit his continued success.

“I believe what sets Laguna Niguel Auto Center apart from the competition isthe added value we give to our customers,” says Sergio. “Our lounge isequipped with TV, movies, coffee and tea bar, computer and WiFi – conven-iences put in place with the customer in mind. Additionally, we have a fleet ofloaner vehicles that customers can use completely free of charge while theircar is in the shop. If free loaners are not available, car rentals are at a highlydiscounted price are also ready for customer‘s convenience. Delivery is alsoavailable upon requests as well as early bird / night owl (after hours) vehicledrop off. With every service and/or repair Laguna Niguel Auto Center alsowashes vehicles with d-ionized water leaving your vehicle without any spotson the paint. But above all, the personalized customer service given by ourhighly-trained, well-educated and courteous staff sets Laguna Niguel AutoCenter apart from any and all competition.”

To this, I can personally attest … My husband has had his car worked on by Ser-gio and his team and everything Sergio says above has been our experienceof Laguna Niguel Auto Center – excellent work, unparalleled customer serviceand fair pricing. Thanks Sergio!


Some people are born great; some people createtheir own greatness.

For Victoria Vannini, creating with hair and giving herclients a style that reflects their personality and‘true self ’ is more than just a “cut and color.”

“It begins with the consultation,” says Victoria. “I wantto know about your lifestyle and career. [About] thehair products and tools you use. This is essential inevaluating the condition and texture of your hair andhelps us to come to a place that is realistic - at the be-ginning and where we want to go for the future.”

Education is an important element to Victoria’s career.After graduating from cosmetology school, Victoriacontinued at the Vidal Sassoon Academy in Los Ange-les. While apprenticing at the Carlton Hair Salon atCrystal Court for one year, she honed her skills withcreative color and hair cutting. From there, she wenton to be an educator for Paul Mitchell. She currentlytakes classes at the Unite Academy in Carlsbad.

In Pursuit of

SPOTLIGHT ON:

StylistVictoria Vannini

“I want to stay current with color trends, foilplacement, new haircutting techniques andstrategies,” says Victoria, who sees her edu-cation as a hair stylist as ongoing. “The in-dustry is currently on the cusp of usingammonia-free color. I want to give my clientsthe newest and best products that are on themarket that will keep their hair in BEAUTI-FUL condition. Schwartzkopf's new colorline 'Essensity' will do just that with 100%coverage without ammonia, odor, preserva-tives or alcohol! Also, all my highlights aredone WITHOUT bleach!! Using Scrupplesoil-based highlighing system ensures thequality of your hair stays intact."

With over 12 years of experience with inno-vative color, corrective color and highlights,lowlights and glazing, Victoria is an award-winning colorist who prides herself in help-ing her clients "recharge" their hair withvibrant, pure color and luscious shine - allthe beautiful hues with none of the harmfulingredients.“I've seen to many clients comein with over processed hair, in need of an 'InSalon' protein treatment to restore theirdamaged hair."

“Every hairstyle has to be approached dif-ferently and requires thought. Just becausea style works for Jennifer Aniston doesn’tmean it will work for every client’s hair tex-ture and facial structure. Everyone isunique and it’s important to take the timeto feel the hair to see how it moves, deter-mine the best, most complementary huesand utilize top-of-the-line products that willenhance and strengthen the hair withoutany of the damaging ingredients."

"Whatever your hair needs, I desireand appreciate the opportunity to

make your hair dreams come true.”

the Perfect Cut& Color

Connect with Victoria by calling (949) 584-3885or visit her at the Howard Jones Salon located in the Ocean Ranch Center

at 32545 Golden Lantern in Dana Point

Jazz lovers were jazzed over the 10 years Ocean Institute jazz gala cel-ebration! A sold-out crowd enjoyed a magical dining experience andentertainment by celebrity jazz artist Rick Braun, David Benoit andMindi Abair.

Co-chairing this year’s event for the 10th time, and active with the OceanInstitute for more than twenty years, is Dana Point resident Tim McMahon,Senior Vice President, CBRE. Joining him is Laguna Niguel resident Jens

von Gierke, Principal & Founder of Wave Hospitality Advisors Inc., who hasbeen involved with the Institute for nine years.

The Ocean Institute provides unique “immersion” style educational experiencesfor students. These programs reach more than 115,000 students and public visi-tors and helps preserve the pristine majesty of the oceans for generations tocome. To date, the Ocean Institute’s annual jazzcelebration has raised more than $735,000.

“It is very exciting to be celebrating ’10 Years ofJazz at the Ocean Institute," says Dan Stetson,CEO, President of the Ocean Institute. "With itswonderful food and great music, the event hasbeen warmly embraced by the local communityand sells out almost every year. The best part ofall is that it provides much needed funds tobring many deserving children to the Ocean In-stitute for the experience of a lifetime!”

Ocean InstituteBoard memberMichael Torcasowith wife Susan

Ocean Institute Board member and co-chair Jens von Gierke with wife

Nicole, Carol McMahon with husband Ocean Institute Board member

and co-chair Tim McMahon

Rick Braun, Dan Stetson, Ocean Institute CEO/President,

David Benoit and Mindi Abair

Celebrating 10 Years of Jazzat The Ocean Institute

giving back in South Countyby Cherri Farah



BEST BUY WINDOWS AD


As a volunteer with the American Can-cer Society I know that we Californi-ans have an excellent opportunitybefore us on the June Election Datewith Prop. 29.

The proposition places a $1 dollar tax on alltobacco products sold in our state. Themoney does not go to Sacramento or to theGeneral Fund for our politicians to spend ontheir pet projects as Big Tobacco would likeyou to believe. The money does not come outof any State budgets of any kind and the funddoes not hurt education, our library system,or employment in any way.

Funded solely by the sale of tobacco productsin California, Prop 29 will generate approxi-mately $500 million a year for cancer re-search. The money will go to a board ofdoctors and research scientists to benefit theAmerican Cancer Society and other medicalresearch organizations with a very smallamount being dedicated to tobacco law en-forcement and education.

Prop. 29 WILL SAVE LIVES.Prop. 29 WILL HELP FIND

A CURE FOR CANCER,and Prop. 29 WILL HELP

DECREASE YOUTH SMOKINGin California

by Ted Roberts

Know the TruthBefore You Vote

Please VOTE YESon Prop. 29 on June 5, 2012


2012 Athletes First ClassicGala BenefitingOrangewood

Children's Foundationby Cherri Farah

From (L): Athletes First CEO David Dunn, honoree William Wang

and presenter Wing Lam • (Photo credit: Ann Chatillon)From (L): Athletes First CEO David Dunn, honoree William Wang

and presenter Wing Lam • (Photo credit: Ann Chatillon)

giving back in South Countyby Cherri Farah

Syndicated columnist, televi-sion/radio host Cherri Farahbrings her years of experienceas an ongoing editorial contrib-utor to scores of Southern Cali-fornia-based magazines,including Riveria Magazine, Image Magazineand OC Health Magazine to her new positionas Entertainment/Society Editor for Commu-nity Publications, LLC., publisher of NewportMesa Magazine, HB Magazine, OrangeMagazine and South County Magazine.

Once again, Athletes First (a NewportBeach-based sports agency that rep-resents more than 80 athletes andcoaches) partnered with Orange-

wood Children’s Foundation and its PALSauxiliary to host their annual two-dayfundraiser, “The Athletes First Classic.”

The gala event was held at the St. Regis Re-sort, Monarch Beach with a golf tournamentthe following day. Major sponsors includedAcra Aerospace, Argyros Family Foundation,Bob and Suzy Barth, Lennar CharitableHousing Foundation, St. Regis MonarchBeach, and Starkey Hearing Foundation.Athletes in attendance were 2011 SuperBowl-winning quarterback Aaron Rodgers(G.B. Packers), USC alum Matt Leinart(Houston Texans), Defensive Rookie of theYear Von Miller (Denver Broncos), ScottyMcKnight (NY Jets) with girlfriend actressHayden Panettiere, and 18 young playersrepresented by Athletes First going into the2012 draft including Melvin Ingram.

“My business banks the way I want it to.”ndependence Bank offers me great customer service and convenience. Theyknow me, and I’m not just a number like with other banks. My banker is truly

connected with my business and with my community. That’s why I bank withIndependence Bank.

I

Sherry BehzadiOwner, Charisma Beauty Supply & SalonSan Juan Capistrano, CA(949) 240-1200

... True freedom in banking.

South County Regional O!ce32291 Camino Capistrano • San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

(949) 373-1570 • www.Independence-Bank.net


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To Advertise in South County MagazineCall 714.469.3495

See Page 6 forAdvertiser Testimonials

2) What is the cost for lasertoenail treatment?IR: The treatments are broken downinto two easy to understandcomponents. The first is theexamination and nail treatment whichmay be covered by insurance. Thesecond part is the actual lasertreatment which is not covered. Aone-time examination fee of $500 ischarged during the first sessionwhich covers both the fee for the ini-

tial examination as well as the follow-up office visit. There is a separate laser fee of $70 foreach toe which is also paid upfront and covers two laser treatments. For example, treatingone toe would be $570; however if all ten toenails are treated, the charge would be $1200.For severe infections, a third laser treatment may be necessary. Exclusive anti-fungalproducts are sold separately. You are not forced to treat all your nails as may be mandatoryat other offices.

1. How did you perfect the lasertreatment for fungal nails?Ivar Roth, DPM: After performing thou-sands of laser fungal toenail treatments, Ideveloped and refined a proprietary proto-col coupled with the newest second gen-eration FDA approved laser. The new laserwith its digital readouts allows me to tellprecisely how much energy is required tokill the fungus. With this information, I cal-culate a specific customized laser treatment tailored to each patient. This patient specifictreatment means that no two patients are given the same laser treatment. In addition, I in-vented a new way to get rid of the fungal infection in the toenails. Before your lasertreatment, I will perform Maximum Nail Reduction (MNR) which removes at least 80% of your fungus in a single office visit. This exclusive protocol is so effective that I appliedfor a patent and it is currently only available at my office. The initial treatment fee includes asecond treatment session in order to ensure your success.

BEFORE AFTER 6 MONTHS


Contact Dr. Roth today for your appointment:351 Hospital Road #407 • Newport Beach, CA 92663

T: 949.650.1147 • F: 949.650.6434 • [email protected]


Dr. Roth's Patient

Dr. Roth's Patient

Dr. Roth's Patient

3) Is there a treatment for split nails?Dr. Roth has developed a newpatent pending cure for split nails.Only one or two treatments arerequired to solve this problem.

Start with the Mozzarella Caprese, which arrives withslices of fresh tomato topped with creamy buffalo moz-zarella cheese and basil and served with virgin olive oil.Another popular pick is the antipasto misto made up ofa selection of cured meats and complementarycheeses.

For the main course, Tim’s favorite dish is the “PinkLady Fettuccine” made with chicken and sundriedtomatoes tossed in a creamy Alfredo sauce. My fa-vorites include the Lasagne al Forno which arrives withlayers of perfectly al dente pasta, ricotta cheese andmeat sauce baked with mozzarella cheese.

A seafood aficionado? Options abound – ranging fromthe Linguini Vongole Veraci (long, flat pasta with babyManila clams sautéed in a white wine sauce) and Far-falle al Salmone (bowtie pasta with smoked salmontossed in a cream and tomato sauce with a touch ofvodka) to the Linguini alla Pescatora (long, flat pastawith fresh fish of the day, shrimp, calamari, mussels andclams in a light tomato sauce.

Portions are generous, but if you’ve saved room for alittle something sweet … try the crèmebrulee with its perfectly carmelized topor the homemade tiramisu, a traditionalfavorite.

Casanova Ristoranteand Cocktail Lounge

by Jody Robinson

serves up some of the best Italiandishes this side of Venice

If you’re in the mood for delicious, authentic Italian fare served in a romanticatmosphere where the owner makes you feel like a personal guest in hishome, look no farther than Casanova Ristorante.

My husband Tim discovered the Dana Point restaurant while vacationing inVenice, Italy a decade ago. Strolling by a quaint eatery, he noticed its sign show-cased a sister establishment in Southern California not far from his SanClemente home. His experience of what he calls “truly terrific” culinary dishesprompted him to seek out Casanova Ristorante in the hopes that the “authentic

Venetian” specialties served up state-side would rival its Italian counterpart.

Owner Nik Doda apparently more thandelivered because Casanova Ristorantehas consistently been the eatery ofchoice when deciding on where to goon “date night.”

I can’t speak to the cuisine at its sisterestablishment in Venice, but I can tell you that literally

everything I’ve tried on the menu here has been nothing short of superb. Theservice is excellent – attentive and unobtrusive – the ambiance is warm andfriendly and its popular cocktail lounge featuring Nik’s specially selected winelist (and full bar) has a loyal following among locals and visitors alike.

Connect with Nik by visiting Casanova Ristorante at 33585 Del Obispo St. in Dana Point(at the corner of Stonehill), by calling 949.496.0992 or visit www.casanovaristorante.com

Owner Nik Doda’sCasanova Ristoranteis characterized by

the great style,tradition and charm

of Venice, Italy


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south county magazine may/june 2012

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