Arts + Culture

Kendall: the Wheelchair World Traveler

Empowering All to Learn and Advocate for Accessibility. Article by Lauren Lenyi | Photography by Travis Shields Kendall Stier is never one to leave her dreams unfulfilled. This three-time All-American Athlete, and 2017 Women’s National Paralympic Gold Medalist, achieved and exceeded her athletic goals as a shot put and javelin thrower. Now she is focusing on a matter closer to home.  Throughout college, Kendall studied and eventually earned her degree in communications with an emphasis on...

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...

Event Planning + Services

Celebrate In Style!

Where Every Gathering Becomes a Moment to Remember Article by Lauren Lenyi | Photography by OC Party Rental For many years, Jacqueline “Jaque” Parent has been helping people host fabulous events to celebrate the holidays. From New Year's Eve parties to weddings and so much more, she is determined to provide professional services with an emphasis on sparkling customer service. Around eight months ago, Parent bought her company, OC Party Rental, but her journey to becoming the owner of a...

Wellness

Give the Gift of Radiance

Invest in Confidence that Lasts! Article by Lauren Lenyi After a long year of hard work, we all deserve a little pampering—a bit of “me time” to recharge our minds and bodies before leaping into 2026. This holiday season, consider giving the gift of radiance to yourself or someone you love by indulging in one of Refined Radiance Aesthetics’ many luxury treatments. Founded in January, Refined Radiance Aesthetics is the creation of Dr. Duc, a physician who began his career as a primary care...

Life + Culture

A Tribute to Service & Sacrifice

Honoring our hometown heroes Article by Lauren Lenyi Arturo A. Huerta Jr., active 1990 - 1996 United States Marine Corps   Huerta Jr. joined the Marine Corps in 1990 at the age of seventeen, during Operation Desert Shield. He served one year of active duty and, at the end of the Operation Desert Storm Campaign, joined the reserves with Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 14th Marines, Pico Rivera, CA. He is deeply grateful for his family, community, country, and the U.S. military.   Karen...

Style + Beauty

An Attitude of Gratitude

Success is Infinite! Article by Lauren Lenyi For Olesya Ruffo, an attitude of gratitude is not limited to November. Regardless of the season, this mother of two and salon owner is always finding new ways to show her appreciation towards her staff and community. Originally born in Kazakhstan, Ruffo moved to Seattle, Washington, at the age of nine. Later, her family settled in Laguna Hills, where she still resides. Her passion for haircare began when she found work as a receptionist at a hair...

Life + Culture

Surviving Banjo Biroe

Achieving the American Dream: Charlotte Van Steenbergen’s Story Article by Lauren Lenyi | Photography by Charlotte Van Steenbergen At about three years old, Charlotte Van Steenbergen was whisked away from the reality she had grown accustomed to. At the time the Pacific War was raging in the Dutch East Indies, later referred to as Indonesia. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Dutch East Indies declared war on Japan, and shortly thereafter, the Japanese invaded and occupied the territory...

Life + Culture

Beyond the Pumpkin Patch

Year round traditions, events, and heartwarming memories. Article by Lauren Lenyi | Photography by Pumpkin City & adobe stock Pumpkin City is back in town! Recently, earning the Moulton Award recognizing Pumpkin City's lasting impact and community spirit, their seasonal events and activities have returned to Laguna Hills. First established in 1978, Pumpkin City has since evolved, now offering so much more than its famous Pumpkin Patch.    What can you look forward to? October is not just...

Food + Beverage

From One Melting Pot to Another

"One customer at a time, that’s how we measure success." Article by Lauren Lenyi | Photography by Travis Shields Thirty-nine years ago, Chef Lauren Lian immigrated from Singapore to America with a dream of owning a restaurant with a dining experience that allowed customers to taste new flavors and immerse themselves in another culture. A restaurant that highlights her roots while personalizing and elevating traditional Chinese cuisine. Her journey to achieving her goals began in her early...

Wellness

Love, Laura's House

A nonprofit's mission to protect and serve survivors. Article by Lauren Lenyi October is more than just a month of tricks, treats, and fall festivities. It is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month. A month where non-profits, like Laura’s House, take care to remind the public of their mission to: “Change social beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors that perpetuate domestic violence while creating a safe space in which to empower individuals and families affected by abuse.” The nonprofit works...