The 501 Restaurant & Bar

at Shorecliffs Golf Club

by Dina Scaglione

Just over a year ago, Shorecliffs Golf Club in San Clemente completed a major renovation that included an upgraded course, refreshed clubhouse and the addition of the new 501 Restaurant & Bar. The restaurant now features a modern interior, a well-appointed center bar, a spacious wraparound patio and two golf simulators—all set against a scenic backdrop of rolling hills, graceful trees and a manicured fairway. Once touted as President Nixon’s favorite local course, Shorecliffs is tucked away in a resort-like setting bordered by green canyons and ocean breezes.

Now home to the stylish 501 Restaurant & Bar, locals can enjoy fresh, flavorful meals including hearty breakfasts, light and tasty lunches and sophisticatedly crafted dinner entrées.

State-of-the-art burgers, filling appetizers and other classic golf club fare abound, but the dinner menu offers something new—enticing even the most discerning palates. Must-try dishes include the delectable lobster ravioli with a savory dill sherry cream sauce and the grilled salmon, cooked to perfection and finished with a tangy tarragon sherry sauce that may even convert the pickiest non-fish eaters. The Chicken Marsala melts in your mouth, glazed with Marsala wine, shallots, cream, parsley and a delicate demi-glace, complemented by thinly sliced portobello mushrooms. The mouthwatering New York steak is served with a Chianti reduction, pink and green peppercorns, brandy cream, veal stock, garlic, shallots and tarragon—paired perfectly with garlicky butter mashed potatoes.

Don’t miss Prime Rib Night, held every second Thursday of the month, with a fish option available for non-meat eaters. Reservations are recommended. Other entertaining events include Italian Night, Movie Night and a four-course Murder Mystery Dinner on July 19. Live music is offered every Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m., the perfect backdrop as you sip from a wide selection of wines, beers and signature cocktails.

Looking to host a party, corporate event or wedding? Shorecliffs provides an idyllic setting with lush fairways, elegant water features, upscale décor and a customizable menu of services and dishes—making 501 the ideal venue for any budget or theme. Whether you’re a single-digit handicapper or simply prefer cruising in a golf cart, 501 Restaurant & Bar at Shorecliffs Golf Club is a top-notch dining destination everyone can enjoy.

The 501 Restaurant & Bar
501 Avenida Vaquero, San Clemente
501RestaurantAndBar.com

Acting Academy for Kids & Teens

by Victoria Kertz

Summer Camps
Theater kids (and parents) rejoice! Summer is right around the corner, and the award-winning Acting Academy for Kids (AA4K) has big news—they’re raising the curtain on a third location for their popular summer musical theater camps for students ages 5 to 14—in Newport Beach!

Located at the Newport Theater Arts Center, just above the Mariners Mile neighborhood (near the Rusty Pelican), the new venue offers more than stunning views. Starting June 9, the new camp will run a 10-week schedule through August 15, mirroring the successful programs at its sister camps in Mission Viejo (Z Playhouse) and Irvine/Tustin (Lyceum Village). Visit ActingAcademyForKids.com for themes and camp details.

Competition Team Wins it All
The new camp comes on the heels of AA4K’s standout victory at Junior Theatre Festival West (JTF), led by the talented young instructors of the competition team, Mr. David and Miss Lily. In just their third year of competing, the 25-student team took home the prestigious All-Performance Group Award, standing out among more than 2,500 students!

Their success earned them the honor of performing a condensed version of Shrek the Musical for all 10,000 attendees—an incredible opportunity for these young thespians. Additionally, Arthur Waite, age 9, of Aliso Viejo, won the coveted All-Festival Individual Performer award, a rare achievement for such a young student!

At JTF, Broadway elite watch and coach performers throughout a fun-filled weekend in Sacramento. AA4K co-founders Stephen and Maggie Zygo were thrilled with the results and look forward to expanding the competition team in the upcoming academic year.

Beyond the performances, JTF is a bonding experience for students and families alike. “Out of all the things we do,” says Stephen, “it’s the most collectively cohesive experience for families as they travel together, cheer together, and create lifelong friendships. I really couldn’t be prouder!”

So Much More Happening
At Z Playhouse in Mission Viejo, AA4K hosts two afterschool programs in addition to JTF that meet throughout the year, its full-scale youth musical theater series and AA4K Studios, its TV/Film Department. Currently, there are four casts of kids preparing for Disney’s Moana JR! The teen musical theater program is back on track for summer, with the teens gearing up for a full-scale production of Hadestown! The full-length musicals are a spectacular showcase of young talent and the culmination of an entire summer’s hard work. Any level of experience is welcome!

Come “Z” Us at Z Playhouse
Are you an adult with the acting bug? The Z Playhouse offered its first community theater season last year, performing Cabaret, Little Women, Young Frankenstein, and Rent. In April 2025, they will be producing Heathers, and the summer show will be Into the Woods, so get your tickets now! Interested actors may find audition details or buy tickets at ZPlayhouse.org.

Looking for a laugh? The Z Playhouse sponsors a standup comedy show with Comedy in the OC monthly. Featuring well-known and up-and-coming names in show business, these standup shows are a first in Mission Viejo and a unique date night option.

Where to Find More
Registration is now open for aspiring actors ages 5 to 14 at all three summer camp locations. The 10-week program runs from June 9 through August 15, 2025 (with a four-day camp the week of July 4). Waitlists are available for full sessions. To ensure a safe and fun experience, all teachers and counselors at AA4K have undergone LiveScan background checks and are CPR and First Aid-certified.

To learn more about summer camps, after school programs, and opportunities for teenagers visit ActingAcademyForKids.com. For theatre tickets, standup comedy shows, and audition dates, please go to ZPlayhouse.org.

See you on stage this Spring and Summer!

Acting Academy for Kids & Teens
Ages 5-17
ActingAcademyForKids.com
949.427.0072
Z Playhouse: 24196 Alicia Parkway, Suites A, L & M, ​Mission Viejo
​Lyceum Village: 14281 Chambers Rd, Tustin
Newport Theatre Arts Center: 2501 Cliff Drive, Newport Beach

Hunting for Easter Egg Fun!

There’s no shortage of Easter egg hunts happening throughout our communities. Make time to create lasting memories with your little ones this April.

LAGUNA NIGUEL BUNNY BONANZA: APRIL 12
Hop on over to the Crown Valley Park lower soccer field for Bunny Bonanza on Saturday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy crafts, games, face painting, Touch-a-Truck, entertainment, and photos with Mr. and Mrs. Bunny. Please note… there is no egg hunt at this event. Activities may be canceled in the event of rain. The city kindly asks that families leave their furry friends at home.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO EGGSTRAVAGANZA: APRIL 12
The Spring Eggstravaganza takes place Saturday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to noon at Los Rios Park. This free event includes egg hunts, face painting, a puppet show, crafts, games, and photos with the Easter Bunny. Designed for children ages 2 to 12, the egg hunt schedule is as follows:

• 11 a.m. – Ages 2–3
• 11:10 a.m. – Ages 4–5
• 11:40 a.m. – Ages 6–9
• 11:50 a.m. – Ages 10–12

For more information, contact the Community Services Department at (949) 493-5911.

SAN CLEMENTE SPRINGTACULAR: APRIL 19
Join the city of San Clemente for Easter fun at the Sensational Springtacular on Saturday, April 19, from 9 a.m. to noon at Vista Hermosa Sports Park. Egg hunts are open to children age 12 and under. The event includes live music, bunny visits, and a summer camp expo. Children can purchase a $15 wristband for access to games, crafts, face painting, cotton candy, and an inflatable play zone. San Clemente residents receive a 20% discount. Egg hunts begin at:

• 10 a.m. – Toddlers age 1 and under
• 10:30 a.m. – Ages 2–6
• 11 a.m. – Ages 7–12

Cool off afterward at the Aquatics Center for the Splashtacular from noon to 4 p.m. Visit san-clemente.org/Events for more details.

DANA POINT EGG HUNTS: APRIL 19
Hop on down to Dana Point’s annual egg hunts, where families can discover hidden candy and plastic-filled eggs. Don’t forget to bring a basket! Egg hunts will be held from 8 to 11 a.m. at two locations: Pines Park and Sea Canyon Park. The Easter Bunny will be available for photos from 9 to 9:45 a.m., followed by a magic show at each park. Egg hunts start promptly at 10 a.m. for children ages 10 and under. A pancake breakfast will be served from 8 to 11 a.m., with proceeds benefiting Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary’s charitable efforts. For more information, call the Dana Point Recreation Division at (949) 248-3536.

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