Life + Culture

The Heart of Public Service in Orange County

Meet Your Orange County Sheriff: Don Barnes Article by Lauren Lenyi | Photography by Orange County Sheriffs Department Orange County locals are familiar with the six-pointed sheriff’s star emblazoned on the distinctive patrol cars of the OC Sheriff’s Department. Deputies are a steady presence in our neighborhoods, keeping watch over the community and assisting those in need. While the department’s fundamental duties are widely recognized, the full scope of their work—the time, effort, human...

Fitness

Changing Lives 30 Minutes at a Time

A story of strength, support, and life-changing transformation at Mission Viejo’s Fit Body Boot Camp. Article by Lauren Lenyi | Photography by Travis Shields Step inside a space where commitment, community, and personal transformation come together. When busy mom and corporate professional Melissa Dehakiz first joined Fit Body Boot Camp, she was simply looking for an efficient workout that fit the rhythm of her day. What she discovered instead was a supportive environment that reshaped her...

Beauty

Unveiling the Unique Artistry of Medical Aesthetics

An artful approach to aesthetic medicine rooted in restraint, integrity, and individuality. Article by Heather Whitsitt | Photography by Travis Shields & Bella Derm In Orange County, where the standard of beauty is revered, curated, and debated with discernment, Bella Derm emerges as a welcome counterpoint to the excesses prevalent in modern aesthetic culture. Since opening its doors in June 2025 in Laguna Hills, Bella Derm has offered something of a rarity—restraint. Founded by...

Education

A Flat-Fee Difference: Service Without Sacrifice

How two Orange County Realtors are reshaping the home-selling experience with honesty and transparency. Article by Lauren Lenyi | Photography by Tom Schulze & Steve Shadell “Your mother always told you to make wise choices.” For Orange County Realtors Tom Schulze and Steve Shadell, that phrase captures the foundation of their work. For Schulze specifically, those words became more than a familiar reminder—they shaped his professional philosophy. After more than 20 years in real estate, he...

Fitness

Your Home Away from Home

Experience wellness and luxury at Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo Article by Lauren Lenyi | Photography by Renaissance ClubSport Aliso Viejo Hotel Entering the new year, many of us are looking for ways to focus on our physical and mental well-being. Luckily, hidden within the city of Aliso Viejo, there is an experience that allows you to indulge and invest in yourself. Renaissance ClubSport is where luxury meets lifestyle, blending a full-service Marriott hotel with a world-class fitness and...

Wellness

The Heart Behind Laguna Health Pharmacy

Redefining Care and Restoring Compassion Article by Lauren Lenyi | Photography by Travis Shields   Beginning in the year 2020, we as a community faced a new and resilient foe that few could have ever imagined. During this time of uncertainty, we sought safety, stability, and a return to normalcy, all while trying our best to help those around us. In the midst of it all, Dr. Disha Patel not only sought these comforts for her growing family but also worked tirelessly to provide these...

Travel

The Keys to Building a Great Vacation:

Picture, Plan, & Prepare! Article by Mark McCready & Lauren Lenyi | Photography by Mark McCready Ready to getaway? There are a few things to know to build your perfect vacation. 1. Picture Decide what you want to accomplish with your trip. Is it time for you to relax and escape? Are you looking for adventure, or is this trip to entertain someone, like your parents, children, or friends? Next, you need to develop a budget—not just for money, but also for time. Both time and money budgets play...

Home + Design

From Our Community to Yours

Technological Homes and Hospitable Hands Article by Lauren Lenyi | Photography by Timeless Showroom Remodeling Connection: an irreplaceable concept that the Afrasiabi family holds personally and has worked diligently to implement into their professional lives as well. Pete Afrasiabi, a dotting father, owner of Timeless Remodeling Showroom, and a South Orange County local, recently opened his home improvement business in Laguna Hills. He works closely with his family to connect with the...

Food + Beverage

Chef Lindsay's Heirloom Tomato & Burrata Salad Recipe

Makes: 4 Servings Preparation Time: 15 Minutes Article by Lindsay Smith-Rosales You will need: 4 cups heirloom vine tomatoes 3⁄4 cup kalamata olives 2- 8 oz. whole milk burrata cheese 6 ounces basil fresh basil pesto 4 ounces balsamic glaze 1 cup arugula salt & maldon salt   1) Slice tomatoes into 1⁄4 pieces and place in a large bowl. 2) Slice olives into thin rounds and place in the bowl with the tomatoes. 3) Mix tomatoes and llives with 3 ounces of balsamic reduction &...

Arts + Culture

The Spirit of the Season

Movement, Music, & Merriment Article by Lauren Lenyi | Photography by Travis Shields & South Coast Conservatory When we think of the holiday season, we often envision decorated Christmas trees or candles burning proudly in observance of Hanukkah or Kwanzaa. But no matter what you celebrate, there are universal hallmarks of winter you are bound to see around town: gifts, snow, reindeer, and of course, nutcrackers.  The latter of which holds a special place in the hearts of many, including Jena...