March 2025 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.

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South Coast Singers Launch 2025 Stars of Tomorrow Competition

Open to All Orange County High School Students

Orange County, CA — March 7, 2025 — South Coast Singers announced today that submissions are now being accepted for the 18th Annual Stars of Tomorrow Competition. As part of its music mission to give back to surrounding communities, South Coast Singers is offering scholarships to six Orange County high school students who will compete virtually in the areas of Musical Theatre or Classical Music.

Virtual video submissions and applications must be submitted by April 14, 2025. All Orange County high school students are eligible to apply. This competition is for vocal soloists only. For audition guidelines and forms, please visit http://southcoastsingers.org/stars-of-tomorrow. Top winners will perform and receive their awards at the South Coast Singers’ upcoming spring concert: Across the Pond, to showcase on Sunday, June 1, 2025 at South Shores Church in Dana Point, and Saturday, June 7, 2025 at Presbyterian Church of the Master, Mission Viejo, both at 4:00 PM. Tickets may be purchased at www.southcoastsingers.org.

South Coast Singers is a California nonprofit performing arts 501(c)3 corporation that performs concerts in Orange County under the direction of Ray Medina. Learn more about South Coast Singers and the Stars of Tomorrow Competition at www.southcoastsingers.org.

For more information, press only: Teri Coakley, (949) 233-8783, Tcoakley1@cox.net.

Simon Guy with Right Guy Real Estate

Achieve Your Real Estate Goals with Simon
Simon’s real estate journey began at just 18, balancing college classes at night while building a thriving real estate team by day. His relentless work ethic quickly set him apart, earning early sales accolades and laying the foundation for a remarkable career. To date, he has successfully sold over 600 homes, helping countless families achieve their real estate dreams. In 2024, Simon once again earned the top agent spot at Keller Williams OC Coastal, a testament to his dedication, expertise, and results-driven approach.

For Simon, real estate is about more than just transactions—it’s about guiding clients through one of life’s biggest decisions with clarity and confidence. Whether helping sellers simplify a complex process and maximize their bottom line or assisting buyers in securing the perfect home with a winning offer, his approach is tailored to every client’s needs.

Equity Plus: Maximizing Home Value
A key driver of Simon’s success is his innovative Equity Plus Program. Understanding that first impressions are everything, he reframes the selling conversation from “How much would my home sell for?” to “How much could my home sell for?” Through this program, he and his team identify high-ROI renovations, partner with contractors, and manage the entire process—often securing financing options so sellers don’t have to pay out of pocket.

In 2024 alone, homes utilizing the Equity Plus Program invested an average of $48,000 in improvements and saw an estimated $169,000 increase in sale price. This strategic approach ensures sellers get top dollar while removing the stress of home preparation.

A Proven Strategy for Record-Setting Prices
Regardless of whether a home needs renovations, Simon implements a dynamic marketing strategy designed to create demand and drive up value. “It’s all about positioning a home so that buyers see their competition,” Simon explains. “Instead of asking, ‘How cheap can I get it?’ they start thinking, ‘How much can I afford not to lose this home?’ When that shift happens, prices rise—fast.”

A Family Man Who Knows the Value of “Home”
Beyond real estate, Simon is deeply rooted in the community. He and his wife, Daisy, are active members of South Shores Church, where Daisy co-leads the Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) program. Their passion for giving back extends beyond their professional lives, as they believe in fostering strong connections and supporting those around them.

As a father of three boys—John (7), James (5), and Jet (2)—Simon understands firsthand the importance of finding the right home for a growing family. He knows that a house isn’t just a place to live—it’s where memories are made, milestones are celebrated, and futures are built. This personal perspective fuels his drive to help others find not just any home, but the right home.

Your Next Move
Whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply planning for the future, Simon is ready to guide you every step of the way. Schedule a private strategy session today at 949-835-4713 and start turning your real estate goals into reality.

SIMON GUY — CALL OR TEXT TODAY — 949.835.4713
SellWithTheRightGuy.com

54th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales

March 7 – 9, 2025

DIVE INTO THE EXCITEMENT OF THE 54TH ANNUAL DANA POINT FESTIVAL OF WHALES!

Set against the stunning backdrop of Dana Point’s coastline, the annual Festival of Whales returns March 7 to 9, 2025, inviting locals and visitors alike to celebrate our vibrant seaside community and the wonders of the ocean.

Celebrate the Gray Whale Migration in Dana Point
Dana Point is known as the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World^®, and the Festival of Whales remains a tribute to the awe-inspiring annual gray whale migration. Visitors can embark on expert-led whale watching excursions, where they’ll witness these majestic creatures gliding through the waves on their journey.

In addition to ocean adventures, festival-goers can enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities, hands-on experiences, and educational exhibits, making this a perfect weekend for marine enthusiasts, adventure-seekers, and families alike.

A New Wave of Fun: The Festival of Whales Carnival!
Festival favorites like the Clam Chowder Cook-Off, Dinghy Dash, and Little Pirates Treasure Hunt return this year, bringing fun for all ages while supporting local nonprofits. While the Festival of Whales Parade will take a hiatus this year due to harbor construction and limited parking, the City of Dana Point is proud to introduce an exciting new addition—the Festival of Whales Carnival at Lantern Bay Park! This thrilling three-day event will bring the community together with breathtaking ocean views, exhilarating carnival rides, games, delicious food, and live music at the Pet Project Foundation’s beer garden.

The Dana Point Trolley will run all weekend alongside the Dana Point Harbor shuttle, providing easy access to major event locations—including stops at Ocean Institute, Baby Beach, and Lantern Bay Park—so you won’t miss a moment of the fun!

Don’t Miss Out!
Whether you’re exploring the new Festival of Whales Carnival, watching the whales offshore, or simply enjoying a weekend in beautiful Dana Point, this event is not to be missed. Mark your calendars for March 7 to 9, 2025, and be part of this time-honored celebration of ocean conservation, adventure, and community spirit.

Visit FestivalOfWhales.com for the full schedule and details!

California Wine Festival Dana Point 2025 – Sip, Savor & Celebrate!

Experience the Best of California Wines in Dana Point

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable weekend of fine wine, gourmet food, and stunning ocean views at the California Wine Festival in Dana Point, April 25-26, 2025. This highly anticipated event brings together wine lovers, foodies, and music enthusiasts for two days of indulgence at breathtaking coastal venues. Tickets sell fast—secure yours today!

BUY TICKETS NOW

Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa – VUE Lawn (Outdoors)
Friday, April 25, 2025 | 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM

Kick off the festival weekend in style with an exclusive VIP wine-tasting experience at the luxurious Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. Savor hard-to-find, award-winning wines as you take in breathtaking ocean views. This elegant evening includes a champagne reception and a selection of gourmet delicacies, perfect for true wine connoisseurs.

Limited tickets available – this event sells out quickly!

Get Tickets for Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting

Beachside Wine Festival

Sea Terrace Park, Dana Point
Saturday, April 26, 2025 | VIP Entry: 12:00 PM | General Admission: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Immerse yourself in the ultimate California wine-tasting experience! Set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, this lively festival features hundreds of fine wines, regional craft brews, and gourmet food pairings. Stroll through a village of white-topped tents, where you can sample:

Premium California wines
Local craft brews
Artisanal cheeses & gourmet bites
Decadent chocolates & desserts

With live music, sunshine, and sea breezes, this festival is a must-attend event for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

Get Tickets for Beachside Wine Festival

Don’t Miss Out – Get Your Tickets Today!

The California Wine Festival in Dana Point 2025 is your chance to enjoy world-class wines, gourmet food, and stunning ocean views in a truly unforgettable setting. Whether you’re a seasoned wine aficionado or just looking for a fun day by the sea, this event is for you!

Secure your spot now before tickets sell out!

BUY TICKETS HERE

Cheers to a weekend of incredible wines and coastal charm!

Triton Air

COOLING, HEATING AND NOW PLUMBING SOLUTIONS!

by Victoria Kertz

Triton Air has been the top heating, ventilation, and air conditioning service provider in South Orange County for more than twenty years. With over 3,000 reviews, it also has the honor of being the most-reviewed company in the region and a perfect 5.0-star rating among competitors in the area. This dual achievement in quantity and quality of customer feedback is no surprise to Luis Montiel, General Manager and 12-year veteran of Triton, because he’s lived and breathed its customer-first principles for so long. Still, his biggest news is service-related: Triton Air is now Triton Air & Plumbing, expanding into plumbing services to be a “whole service provider for the whole house.” It’s a move that makes sense and one that some longtime Triton customers have been requesting for years.

“Our mission has always been to positively impact people’s lives,” says Luis. “By adding plumbing services to our portfolio, we can now care for two of life’s most essential elements: the air we breathe and the water we use.”

This strategic expansion builds upon Triton’s reputation for exceptional service and community-focused values. Triton is ready to offer even more home services beyond HVAC, from its San Clemente headquarters to its newer Laguna Niguel facility.

A Natural Evolution
The decision to venture into plumbing services wasn’t just about business growth—it was about meeting their customers’ basic home repair needs. “We’ve built trust with our community through our HVAC services,”explains Karyn Lerdahl, Office Manager. “Adding plumbing services like leak detection, drain clearing and installations of water heaters and filtration systems seemed like a logical next step.”

Quality and Expertise in Every Service
Just as they’ve done with HVAC, Triton Air is approaching plumbing with an unwavering commitment to excellence. Their plumbing division employs experienced professionals who share the company’s values of integrity, expertise, and customer-first service. Whether it’s a routine maintenance check or an emergency repair, customers can expect the same prompt, professional service that has become Triton’s hallmark.

The company’s expansion has also created new opportunities for growth within its team. Luis says adding plumbing services has opened up new pathways for professional development and technical expertise within the company. Taking care of people has always been Triton’s “why,” but developing its staff to become subject matter experts and skilled tradespeople has also been a priority.

Sustainability Meets Innovation
True to their forward-thinking approach, Triton’s plumbing services incorporate the latest water conservation technology and sustainable practices. Just as they’ve promoted energy-efficient HVAC solutions and heat pumps, their plumbing division emphasizes water-saving fixtures and systems that benefit homeowners and the county’s water conservation efforts.

Triton isn’t just fixing pipes and unclogging drains; they’re helping homeowners optimize their water usage, reduce their water bills, and ensure the safety and quality of their water supply. It’s about creating a healthier home from every angle.

Community Impact
Triton Air & Plumbing’s commitment to community service remains stronger than ever. Their expanded services allow them to make an even more significant positive impact in South Orange County. The company continues its support of local initiatives, including San Clemente High School athletics and various charitable causes, while now being able to offer more comprehensive assistance to families in need.

Triton sees a future where it can serve as a one-stop solution for home comfort and safety. By combining its HVAC expertise with quality plumbing services, the team is better positioned to help the community thrive. “It’s about being there for our customers in more ways than one,” Luis says.

For residents of South Orange County seeking reliable HVAC or plumbing services, Triton Air continues to set the standard for excellence and community-focused care. Their expansion into plumbing services is a new chapter for the company and reaffirms their commitment to serving the needs of every family in Orange County.

To learn more about Triton Air’s comprehensive home services, call 949.482.2492 or visit TritonAir.com.

Triton Air
1221 Puerta Del Sol #300
San Clemente
949-482-2492
TritonAir.com

Home Improvement Spotlight

Capistrano Hardwoods

Cindy Horner Design & Construction

Dana Point Hardware

Dewey’s Home Appliances & Electronics

Doheny Builders Supply

Gentle Genie Rug Care

Lantern Bay Interiors and Flooring

Outdoor Lighting Perspectives

ReelTime Sight & Sound

Reynolds Termite Control

Screenmobile

Socal Tankless

Sofas by Design

South Coast Shutter and Shades

South County Restoration

VersaTraction

Min’s Dumpling

by Dina Scaglione

With the winter chill still lingering, there’s nothing quite like warm, flavorful comfort food to satisfy the soul. Just in time for the season, San Clemente welcomes Min’s Dumpling on Del Mar—a delightful new spot offering fresh and authentic dishes that go beyond your typical Chinese takeout.

Min’s serves up a rich menu featuring fluffy, handmade steamed dumplings, crispy pot stickers, stir-fried favorites, and more. These dumplings are anything but ordinary: light, tender, and generously filled with options like classic pork, comforting chicken soup, or a hearty vegan blend of cabbage, carrots, shiitake mushrooms, tofu, and glass noodles. Other must-tries include the BBQ pork buns, deep-fried mini buns, and steamed custard buns. The steamed sweet buns are a particular fan favorite, offering just the right amount of sweetness to end your meal on a high note.

For those who love a crispy bite, the pan-seared pot stickers, filled with your choice of pork, chicken, or shrimp alongside cabbage, ginger, and green onion, are sure to please. Meanwhile, Min’s stir-fry dishes, like white-meat orange chicken, honey walnut shrimp, and tender Mongolian beef, offer bold, satisfying flavors.

The menu’s side dishes are no afterthought, either. Highlights include the deep-fried string beans, perfectly sautéed in a savory brown sauce, and the chicken fried rice, loaded with sliced chicken breast, peas, carrots, green onions, and eggs. If you’re starting with appetizers, the crispy scallion pancakes (dubbed “Chinese pizza”) deliver a flaky exterior with a soft, chewy interior. Or try the crispy sesame balls filled with red bean paste, and don’t miss the potato string shrimp—light, crunchy, and paired with a tangy dipping sauce. For a refreshing balance, the cucumber salad and seaweed salad add a zesty, nutritious touch.

Open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Min’s Dumpling is the perfect spot for both dine-in and takeout. Whether you’re gathering with friends or simply indulging in a quiet meal, Min’s cozy atmosphere and satisfying menu make it an irresistible addition to San Clemente’s dining scene—comfort food for any season.

Min’s Dumpling
211 Avenida Del Mar
San Clemente
949-545-7266

Screenmobile

Matt Rudar

In South Orange County, Screenmobile has built a strong reputation for delivering reliable and custom screen solutions, thanks to Matt Rudar, who has been leading the company in the region for over 28 years. Based out of Laguna Niguel, Matt and his team of expert technicians specialize in repairing and installing window, door, and porch screens for both homes and businesses throughout the coastal communities. With their fleet of mobile service vehicles, Screenmobile brings their services directly to customers’ doorsteps, saving them time and eliminating the hassle of bringing screens in for repairs or installations.

Matt’s journey in the screen business began at an early age when he worked alongside his parents, who owned a screen company in Huntington Beach. In 1996, he made the move to South Orange County to open his own Screenmobile franchise. After settling in Laguna Niguel, Matt grew his business while also building a family. “I love being able to pair the wants and needs of my customers with the perfect screening solution,” says Matt. “My years of experience allow me to solve their issues on a daily basis, and it brings me great pride and satisfaction.”

Over the years, Screenmobile has expanded its offerings beyond standard window and door screens to include a variety of specialty products. Whether it’s solar screens for increased energy efficiency, security screens for added protection, retractable door screens for seamless design, or pet-friendly options for animal lovers, Screenmobile is committed to providing solutions for every need. Whether repairing a torn screen or designing a custom enclosure, their team ensures top-quality results that elevate both the functionality and aesthetic of any space.

What truly sets Screenmobile apart is their dedication to customer satisfaction. Every project is approached with professionalism, and each client receives a tailored solution that fits their specific needs. From the initial consultation to installation, Screenmobile’s mobile service makes it easier than ever to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about pests or the elements. With a deep commitment to solving customer problems and a foundation built on years of experience, Screenmobile continues to be the trusted choice for anyone seeking dependable, custom screen solutions.

Screenmobile
Servicing South Orange County
949-364-5292
ScreenMobile.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 of-fense. 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. The company offers very competitive rates for local treatments, whole house fumigations, dry rot and all types of wood repairs for residential, commercial and homeowners associations.

Reynolds Termite has been serving the local real estate market for over 45 years. “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 condi-tions 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 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
reynoldstermitecontrol.com