California Windows

A Family Legacy Built on Craftsmanship and Integrity

by Victoria Badzey

Founded in 1974 by an uncle and two brothers, California Windows began as a glass shop with a simple vision: to bring quality craftsmanship and genuine care to every project. Today, more than five decades later, the company stands as Orange County’s leading provider of high-end residential window and door installations.

Under the leadership of Dallas Conkle, the son of one of the original founders, the family legacy continues to thrive. Dallas says he runs the business the way he lives his life: intentionally, carefully and for the long term. Alongside his wife, Nichole, and their son, Wylder, he is building both a company and a community presence that reflect their deep-rooted values. For Dallas, every home they enhance is more than a project; it is a reflection of a family’s story, treated with the same care he would give his own.

From its Costa Mesa showroom, California Windows serves homeowners throughout Orange County, offering a curated selection of top-tier brands including Milgard, Fleetwood, LaCantina and Therma-Tru entry doors. To builders and homeowners alike, these brands represent quality and timeless design for homes that deserve the best. What truly sets California Windows apart, however, is not only the products it represents but the way every detail is handled in-house. “We do all installations ourselves — no outsourcing, no subcontractors,” Dallas explains. “Every installer is an employee, trained, certified and constantly improving.”

That unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and accountability has earned the company dozens of five-star reviews on Yelp, Google and Expertise.com. It also allows them to offer something few others can: a lifetime guarantee on all installation work. “There are no surprises,” Dallas says. “We know it all.”

With Dallas, his father, and his cousin Joshua each managing different aspects of the business, California Windows draws on more than 100 years of collective experience. They lead a team of 18 employees who are more like extended family than staff members. In Dallas’s words, “Employee satisfaction is important to us, and that shows in the work they do every day.” It’s clear that this family business sees its team as the heartbeat of everything they do, well-compensated, well-trained and genuinely valued.

That same sense of connection extends beyond the showroom. Since moving to San Clemente, Dallas and Nichole have immersed themselves in the South Orange County community they love. They have hosted and participated in local healing events, from group sound baths to breathwork sessions. “We love the community vibe in San Clemente,” Dallas says. “We’re all about helping each other out.”

This blend of technical expertise, intentional leadership and heartfelt community involvement sets California Windows apart in every sense. It is a living expression of what happens when family values and professional excellence align. Their work enhances some of the county’s most beautiful homes, helping families create lasting spaces of comfort, style and belonging.

California Windows replaces existing windows and collaborates with professionals on custom home builds in the beach cities and beyond. Whether you are a homeowner, developer or builder, a visit to the Costa Mesa showroom is the perfect place to begin. As the largest window and door showcase in the area, it offers fully installed displays and knowledgeable professionals ready to guide clients from design inspiration to detailed estimates.

As Dallas puts it, “Since we’ve been in business as long as we have, we’ve seen and installed everything under the sun. We know what works and what doesn’t for every home in Orange County.”

To learn more or begin your project, visit the California Windows showroom and experience the craftsmanship firsthand.

California Windows
2915 Red Hill Ave., Suite B104, Costa Mesa
949.284.7483
CAwindow.com

The Dana Point Festival of Whales

March 6 – 8, 2026 at Dana Point Harbor

The Dana Point Festival of Whales returns March 6–8, continuing a proud coastal tradition that began more than five decades ago. Founded by local visionary Don Hansen, whose passion for whale watching helped put Dana Point on the map, the Festival has grown into one of the longest-running celebrations of its kind in the country. This year’s milestone anniversary will be especially meaningful with the longawaited return of the Festival’s beloved “Magical Migration” Parade.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Dana Point Harbor, the Festival honors our city’s identity as the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World. Each year, thousands gather to witness gray whales traveling along our coastline during one of the longest migrations of any mammal on the planet. Whale watching excursions, marine education programs, and hands-on ocean experiences allow visitors of all ages to connect with the marine environment in unforgettable ways.

The return of the Parade brings an extra spark of excitement to this year’s celebration. Families will gather along the Harbor as marching bands fill the air with music and colorful floats created by local schools, nonprofits, and community groups make their way down the route. It’s the kind of joyful hometown tradition that brings generations together — grandparents, parents, and kids all sharing in the moment — and creates the memories that keep families coming back year after year.

Festival weekend will also feature signature favorites including the Blessing of the Whales kick-off event at the Ocean Institute, Clam Chowder Cook-Off, Dinghy Dash, Concert on the Water, Festival of Whales Carnival, live entertainment, educational lecture series, and family-friendly activities throughout the Harbor. These events create lasting memories while supporting local nonprofit organizations that serve our community year-round.

Whether you’re a longtime resident or first-time visitor, this year’s Festival is a chance to celebrate our ocean heritage and experience Dana Point at its very best.

Mark your calendars for March 6–8, 2026 – and join us for a weekend of whales, waves, and community.

Visit FestivalOfWhales.com for the full schedule and details!

The 66th Annual Swallows Day Parade

The 66th Annual Swallows Day Parade and Mercado Street Faire returns in all its glory on Saturday, March 21 to Downtown San Juan Capistrano. The Street Faire runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the parade starting at 11 a.m. This year’s Swallows Day theme, “Trails, Tails & Traditions – 250 Years!,” relates to The Mission San Juan Capistrano’s celebration of 250 years here in 2026. The parade will feature equestrian groups from all over the state, with wagons, carriages, floats, re-enactment troupes and marching bands — a fun-filled family-friendly event!

Since 1960, the Annual Swallows Day Parade has been one of the largest non-motorized parades in the nation. The festivities are a reminder of the city’s equestrian heritage and pays homage to the swallows and their annual return to San Juan Capistrano. The Parade, Fiesta Grande, Hoos’ Gow Day and related events are produced by the all-volunteer organization, the San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association. All funding comes from the community in the form of sponsorships, donations, fundraisers and merchandise sales. The week of Swallows Day offers a trough of happenings. On Wednesday, March 18 from 6 to 10 p.m., the festivities kick-off with the Fiesta Grande at Swallows Inn. Cowboys can compete in a variety of competitions including Best Moustache, Hairiest Man, and Best Beard, while cowgirls vie for Best Outlaw Woman, Best Prairie Girl and other categories. Friday of Swallows Day week includes Hoos’ Gow Day throughout the downtown area. The sheriff and his deputies will be rounding up city slickers not wearing Western gear as well as clean-shaven men, requiring a donation to the Fiesta Association to cover their bail. Come down and check out the hilarious antics. Afterwards at 4 p.m., head over to Los Rios Park with the kids for the 9th Annual Frog-Jumping contest.

The Mercado Street Faire will be happening all day long during Swallows Day, boasting some incredible vendors, live country music, a kid’s zone and plenty of food! The Fiesta Association would like to thank the food vendors who will be serving their delights in the Mercado and the multiple sponsors who helped to support the faire.

For more information on all Swallows Day festivities, please visit www.SwallowsParade.com.

The Fairy Garden

Books & Gifts

Inside The Fairy Garden Bookstore — Where Books, Intuition & Community Meet

Nestled in the heart of Dana Point, The Fairy Garden Bookstore is far more than a place to browse books—it’s a thoughtfully curated sanctuary where stories, self-discovery, and community come together under one roof.

Founded by Jessica Camacho, The Fairy Garden was created with intention. From the moment you walk inside, the space invites you to slow down, soften your shoulders, and reconnect—with yourself, with imagination, and with something deeper.

Yes, it’s a bookstore. But it’s also a gathering place.

Events That Nourish the Soul

The Fairy Garden regularly hosts events and classes designed to support both personal growth and community connection. From meditation and yoga to workshops, sound baths, and children’s story time, the calendar reflects a wide range of experiences meant to ground, inspire, and uplift.

Whether you’re attending a one-time special event or participating in a recurring class, each offering is curated to feel welcoming, intentional, and accessible—no matter where you are on your journey.

Intuitive Readers & Spiritual Guidance

One of the most unique aspects of The Fairy Garden Bookstore is its collective of intuitive readers. Carefully selected practitioners offer services rooted in compassion, insight, and clarity—providing guests with the opportunity for meaningful reflection and guidance in a calm, supportive environment.

These sessions aren’t about spectacle—they’re about presence. And that ethos carries throughout the entire space.

A Dana Point Gem Worth Experiencing

In a time when so many spaces feel transactional, The Fairy Garden Bookstore stands out by being deeply human. It’s a place where curiosity is encouraged, conversations happen naturally, and visitors often leave feeling lighter than when they arrived.

For Dana Point locals—and anyone exploring South Orange County—this is the kind of business that reminds us why supporting local truly matters.

The Fairy Garden
34119 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite H
Dana Point
949.545.8048
TheFairyGardenBookStore.com

March 2026 Calendar of Events and Local Happenings for South Orange County
Featuring the cities of Aliso Viejo, Capo Beach, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and surrounding areas! The Local Dish Magazine’s two-page calendar is the centerfold of our monthly magazine. Many of our magazine readers pull the calendar out of the magazine itself and post it to their refrigerators at home! Web users can simply “mouse over” the image below to enlarge their choice of calendar square/date. Also, make sure to scroll to the bottom area of this page where you can click around until you find an event that you may be interested in. Remember, if you or your business has a “local” event that you think is post worthy, please forward it to our webmaster.

 Mouse over image to MAGNIFY

Photo courtesy of sjcrotary.org:post:classic-rock-meets-classic-cars

Classic Rock Meets Classic Cars in Mission Viejo

There’s something timeless about the rumble of classic engines paired with the soundtrack of classic rock — and this spring, Mission Viejo gets the best of both.

San Juan Capistrano Rotary Club is bringing the community together for a high-energy afternoon where vintage cars, live music, and local spirit collide. The Classic Rock Meets Classic Cars event is shaping up to be a must-attend gathering for car enthusiasts, music lovers, and anyone who appreciates a good time for a great cause.

Attendees can expect an impressive lineup of classic cars on display, live classic rock performances, food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere that celebrates craftsmanship, nostalgia, and community connection. Whether you’re arriving with a polished classic or simply coming to admire the view, this event offers something for everyone.

Beyond the music and motors, the event supports the Rotary Club’s ongoing efforts to give back locally and internationally — making it a feel-good outing in more ways than one.

📍 Location: Mission Viejo Riding Park: 30753 Avenida La Pata, Mission Viejo, CA 92675
📅 Date & Time: February 7th | 9:00am – 2:00pm
🎶 Live Music | 🚗 Classic Cars | 🌭 Food & Drinks | 🤝 Community Impact

This is one of those events where you come for the cars, stay for the music, and leave feeling connected to the community.

We’ll see you there.

— The Local Dish Magazine

Lantern Bay Interiors and Flooring

Gene DeCollibus

For over four decades, Gene DeCollibus has been synonymous with exquisite flooring craftsmanship. With a rich history in Dana Point, Gene made a strategic move in 2022, relocating Lantern Bay Interiors and Flooring to the bustling Capistrano Business Center off Ortega Highway in San Juan Capistrano. Despite the slight adjustment in distance from his cherished ocean view, Gene is reveling in the charm of his new showroom and warehouse. He enthusiastically notes that this move has afforded him his shortest commute to work ever, a considerable advantage.

Originally hailing from Buffalo, New York, Gene ventured westward, finding a home in Dana Point in the early 1980s. Eager to work closer to his growing family, he inaugurated Lantern Bay Carpets & Flooring on PCH near Blue Lantern in 1984. As a devoted father raising four children and now relishing in the joys of six grandchildren, Gene’s familial pride is evident through the countless photos he readily shares.

Gene’s energy and amiable demeanor leave a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to meet him. While a subtle echo of his east coast roots lingers in his voice, Gene has seamlessly embraced the laid-back vibe of California. In an industry where many peers might be contemplating exit strategies, Gene, with his recent move, appears revitalized. Alongside his dedicated employee Susan, Lantern Bay thrives in its new location.

Expressing gratitude to the community that has contributed to Lantern Bay’s success, Gene emphasizes, “My customers make it a pleasure to do business here. I owe them tremendous thanks.” Reflecting the company’s ethos, Gene shares his motto: “Lantern Bay Interiors and Flooring — Where Quality and Service Comes First.”

Lantern Bay offers a diverse selection of wood, vinyl, carpet, and area rugs to cater to various flooring preferences. Additionally, they provide window coverings to add the perfect finishing touch to your spaces. Whether you seek high-end luxury or budget-friendly options, Lantern Bay has something for everyone. With personalized service, a knowledgeable staff, and professional installers committed to timely project completion, a visit to Gene’s Lantern Bay promises a fulfilling experience for all your flooring needs.

Lantern Bay Interiors and Flooring
27128 Paseo Espada, Ste. 1501
San Juan Capistrano
949-240-1545
LanternBayCarpets.com

Reynolds Termite Control

Mike Reynolds

Reynolds Termite Control in San Clemente is your best line of defense against termites and all types of wood destroying pests. Since 1978, Mike Reynolds, along with the help of his father Bill Reynolds, have provided homeowners in South Orange County with quality and effective termite control services. After his father retired in 1991, Mike and his dedicated and helpful employees have continued serving this industry. Mike was born and raised in San Clemente and is a class of 1980 Triton graduate.

In most buildings, the best defense against termites and wood destroying insects is a great offense. One of Reynolds Termite Control’s best plans is the Yearly Control Service Policy. This option provides owners with a comprehensive annual inspection and local treatment of visible and accessible termite evidence at no additional cost… any time of the year. Reynolds Termite Control offers very competitive rates for local treatments, whole house fumigations, dry rot and all types of wood repairs for residential, commercial and homeowners associations.

“Your home is an investment; protect it,” says Mike Reynolds. “Quality termite control starts with the best inspection and we are just the company to do it.” Orange County’s climate takes its toll on wood framed structures, from the moist, salty air along the coast to hotter and cooler conditions found inland. These weather fluctuations provide an environment for termites, fungus and dry rot to spread throughout your structure. Property owners are often unaware they have a problem until Reynolds Termite Control completes an expert inspection.

If you are unsure when your property had its last inspection or treatment, it’s time to contact Reynolds Termite Control for a whole house or limited inspection at 949.498.3500. Throughout the month of February, Reynolds Termite Control is offering a 5% discount on all localized termite treatments, whole house fumigations and woodwork.

Reynolds Termite Control
616 S El Camino Real, Ste C
San Clemente
949.498.3500
714.979.1997
reynoldstermitecontrol.com

Dewey’s Home Appliances & Electronics

Alex Haynes

For unbeatable deals on dishwashers, refrigerators, washers/dryers, and TVs, Dewey’s Home Appliances & Electronics is South Orange County’s go-to destination. Family-owned since 1950, Dewey’s is renowned for integrity, competitive pricing, and exceptional customer service. Offering a wide selection of ultra-premium and mid-range appliances, plus electronics from trusted brands like Thermador, Bosch, Lynx, Monogram, Café, KitchenAid, Samsung, LG, Speed Queen and more, Dewey’s has every home appliance need covered.

Dewey’s dedication to customer satisfaction is evident, boasting over 500 five-star reviews across Google, Yelp, Nextdoor, and Facebook. Owner Alex Haynes, who took over the business in 1991, says, “Our goal is to find the best product for your needs at the best price, backed by unmatched service. Big-box stores can’t compete with our combination of experience, pricing, and personal care.”

As a member of the Nationwide Marketing Group, Dewey’s benefits from the buying power of $20 billion, allowing it to offer manufacturer-direct pricing on top brands. Customers can enjoy exclusive deals, such as a full suite of Thermador Professional Appliances for as little as $10,000, or up to $1,000 in Café appliance rebates, often stackable with manufacturer rebates. Dewey’s also provides free delivery across South Orange County and North San Diego County, with complimentary setup for freestanding appliances and affordable rates for built-in installations.

Unlike big-box stores, Dewey’s employs experienced, full-time professionals who don’t work on commission. Customers receive expert, pressure-free advice, along with services like onsite measurements for built-in appliances to ensure a perfect fit. Dewey’s also has an in-house service center offering affordable repairs and maintenance—something large retailers rarely provide.

For interior designers, builders, and contractors, Dewey’s offers special programs with pricing incentives and dedicated project support. The business also proudly gives back to the community by supporting local schools, youth sports leagues, and charitable organizations.

Visit Dewey’s San Clemente showroom today, open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Experience the difference that 70 years of expertise, value, and service can make.

Dewey’s Home Appliances & Electronics
1542 N. El Camino Real
San Clemente
949-492-3457
ShopDeweys.com

Blue Knight Patio Covers

Joe Ronstadt

HOW TO HIRE A CONTRACTOR
When hiring a contractor, the first step is verifying basic credentials, including a valid CSLB license, insurance coverage and references. However, credentials alone do not tell the full story. It is equally important to determine whether a contractor is a skilled craftsman or simply meeting minimum industry standards.

Many contractors follow what are considered “baseline” construction techniques. While this meets industry norms, it does not always reflect high-quality workmanship. In fact, there are known flaws in standard construction practices nationwide. A true craftsman goes beyond minimum requirements, applying advanced techniques, problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of the trade.

COMMON RED FLAGS TO WATCH FOR
Consumers should be cautious of contractors who:

1. Do not carry a valid license or workers’ compensation insurance.

2. Advertise services outside the scope of their licensed trade.

3. Use false or misleading online reviews.

4. Make exaggerated or inaccurate claims about years in business.

5. Promote “combined years of experience,” which is often misleading and irrelevant.

6. Emphasize years of experience without demonstrating quality craftsmanship or proper techniques.

Experience alone does not guarantee skill. If a contractor has spent years using poor methods or lacks a strong understanding of their trade, the number of years in business holds little value.

Blue Knight Patio Covers
Serving ALL of Orange County!
PatioCoversOC.com