REUSE Jeans… Clothes with a Conscience
By Shelley T. Hudson

A trip to the local recycling center with his four-year-old son shifted George Powell’s focus from easing into retirement to launching a new business venture. George explained the concept of recycling while they inserted aluminum cans into the appropriate slots. His son asked, “Why don’t we just recycle everything?” That simple question triggered George to rethink the business in which he’d spent 30 years of his life—the garment industry.

As George remembers, “I came home from the recycling center and told my wife, ‘I’m going to China tomorrow.’ And I did.” His instincts led him to combine his knowledge of premium denim fabrication with key contacts in textile mills overseas to redevelop the processes that go into manufacturing denim apparel. From the belief that environmental awareness can coexist with fashion, REUSE Jeans (R.E.U.S.E.- Recycle. Environment. U. Save. Earth) was born.

George and his Chinese counterpart started by focusing on the tons of discarded scrap denim that resulted after patterns were cut. Without an existing system to rework the scraps of raw material, George commissioned the mill to develop one. Four months later, he returned to see the newly engineered machinery capable of a “soft opening of the yarns,” allowing denim scraps to be cleaned, shredded and spun into new yarn. This innovation was the first of its kind in the industry, but George didn’t stop there.

An article Powell read while getting a haircut in Hong Kong inspired him to do more. He learned how inherently “thirsty” cotton is and calculated that a staggering 3200 gallons of water were being used to manufacture a single pair of jeans. The same story went for dyes used to color the yarns. Once the yarns were “bathed,” the dye was literally dumped down the drain. George tackled both problems and overhauled the processes so that 80% of water and 90% of dye can be recycled.

George realized that without great-fitting, fashion-forward designs, his idea of manufacturing sustainable clothing would be futile. He teamed with seasoned technical and merchant designer Mandie Slayman to develop the line and her designs were a hit with customers from the start. Mandie calls the distinctive shape “a form-fitting rise” and has designed the pieces with subtle, but deliberate detailing. REUSE offers jeans for both men and women in a mix of washes, colors and cuts – from skinnys to bell bottoms. The company’s entire collection of jeans, jackets, tops, skirts and shorts are all made from 80% recycled materials.

REUSE Jeans are sold at 450 retail locations throughout the country. In an effort to maintain a close dialogue with customers, Powell opened the company’s flagship store in Laguna Beach in 2011. Since then, the company has opened locations in Dallas and Beverly Hills to enthusiastic crowds and Powell has ambitious plans for a rapid expansion.

Powell hopes to retire in five years and says until then, “It’s about managing exponential growth.” This father of six continues to streamline every aspect of the business and has set his sights on eliminating packaging waste and lowering shipping costs next. He’s developed private label lines using his eco-conscious manufacturing practices, including one with country singer Randy Travis, and hopes that other companies follow his lead.

Stop by the flagship store on South Coast Highway in Laguna Beach and “step into a smaller carbon footprint one leg at a time.”

REUSE Jeans
Laguna Beach • 949.715.0473 • www.ReuseJeans.com

Watermarc Restaurant
By Cathy Villafana

Once you set foot inside the Watermarc Restaurant located in downtown Laguna Beach, you are immediately transported into a tranquil yet chic setting that’s perfect for all occasions: date night, meeting up with friends or a private party upstairs.

Nearing its third anniversary, chef/owner Marc A. Cohen set out to give Watermarc’s diners more options. And that he did. You can select dishes from the Grazing Plates if you are in the mood to sample from a fresh and eclectic selection for your entire meal. I was lucky to do just that.

Fragrant and succulent, the Sizzling Garlic Shrimp was prepared with sweet onions and topped with slices of peeled citrus. Be sure to spoon the extra sauce over your shrimp. Simple ingredients make up the Ahi Watermelon Skewers, but don’t be fooled. These are incredible, and I had to call dibs on the third and final skewer — strictly for “writing” purposes, of course!

The velvety texture of the Foie Gras Brûlée, served over brioche toasts drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette, melted in our mouths. If you are a cheese lover, I strongly recommend the Warm Blue Cheese Pear Tarts. Served with burgundy-poached pears and a red wine syrup, this is a delicious starter or dessert.

From the rest of the menu, we tried the Filet Three Ways. Yet again, the recurring theme of choices stood out as the platter delivered to our table showcased a trio of filet creations. The creamy Artichoke Risotto with a hint of lemon was a perfect counterpart to the meat.

Near downtown earlier in the day? Watermarc offers a Lunch Menu from 11:00 to 3:30 p.m. daily which features a more laid-back set of offerings, including sandwiches, burgers and flat-bread pizzas. Watermarc also reflects its commitment to options in its wine program with wines served by the half glass and half carafe.

Watermarc Restaurant
448 South Coast Highway
Laguna Beach
949. 376.6272
WatermarcRestaurant.com

JSerra Catholic High School
By Shelley T. Hudson

Now in the midst of its ninth academic year, JSerra High School is no longer the new kid on the block. The administration’s focus on college admissions and preparation for success in a professional realm has delivered results beyond all expectations.

JSerra’s President, Frank Talarico, and former U.S. Congressman and Board member Chris Cox took JSerra on the road last summer—literally. They met with administration and admissions officials from Harvard, MIT, Princeton and Columbia and presented JSerra’s record of achievement. Talarico describes the visits as “an extraordinary whirlwind trip,” and says that all four institutions were familiar with JSerra’s outstanding track record and innovative magnet programs. “Convincing these Ivy League guys that JSerra’s students are special was the easy part,” Talarico says, “They made it clear that our students have an advantage because of the rigor of our programs.”

Talarico and Cox took the opportunity to meet with the prestigious universities a step further by inviting representatives from each institution to sit on JSerra’s Presidential Advisory Board. Talarico is enthusiastic about the collaboration and envisions that these partnerships will strengthen JSerra’s existing curriculum and underwrite programs in the works. He points to a recent visit by officials from Columbia as an example of how JSerra’s aggressive tack has garnered nationwide attention. “Columbia just doesn’t do school visits outside their region,” he says, “but we were proud to host Columbia’s representatives here in our Pavilion.”

This aggressive advocacy is all part of the job, according to Talarico. “I owe it to these families to give them an extra advantage,” he says. He strives to provide this competitive edge by ensuring that each element of the curriculum is the sharpest possible. “We are very deliberate about our roll out [of programs]. We hold back until we have it right.”

JSerra’s esteemed Professional Magnet program is a perfect example of the comprehensive, deliberate approach to a course of study. The Medical and Business Magnet programs were the first of their kind in the country and both have been overwhelming success stories. The Engineering and Law Magnet programs are in development now and Talarico promises that both will meet the same high standards and provide the same intensive hands-on experience that the initial programs have provided. Talarico measures success not only through test scores and college admissions, but also through individual results. One such “result” is Daniele Perazzo. As a first-year Medical Magnet student, Daniele interned with a local doctor who referred him to a subsequent internship with a neurosurgeon. With these contacts, Daniele was able to gain assistance with his admission to Yale University. These student-by-student success stories drive JSerra’s administration to “take the next step…or three,” according to Talarico.

The latest programs instituted at JSerra are no less ambitious. The Mandarin Chinese language courses are up and running and have been well-received. A fully-developed comprehensive online school has provided a variety of options—all of which take advantage of JSerra’s extensive resources. The program can serve as an alternative to home school or a school-away-from-home for elite athletes or other students who travel. A student can enroll as an online-only student or a hybrid. Full-time campus students can also use the online materials for remediation or enrichment. JSerra’s first-ever Study Abroad program debuts this summer with a three-week intensive course in Florence. The program will focus on culture, language and history and will be led by JSerra faculty.

Full-time Athletic Director Dave Lawn joined the team this year to oversee JSerra’s 22 sports teams, including Coach Brett Kay’s baseball team. Kay’s academic athletes have earned more NCAA Division I scholarships than any other program in OC. Stand-out pitcher Austin Hedges even signed with the Padres right out of high school. Cross Country Coach Martin Dugard still had time to defend a state championship, even after co-writing a New York Times Best Selling novel with Bill O’Reilly!

As if the magnet programs, exemplary college admissions record, stellar faculty, online school and impressive athletic department weren’t enough, Talarico off-handedly remarks, “Did I mention our music department? Our choir sung for the Pope last year at St. Peter’s Basilica and has been invited to sing at Carnegie Hall this April.”

JSERRA CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
26351 Junipero Serra Road • San Juan Capistrano
949.493.9307
www.jserra.org

Laguna Beach Music Festival

The Laguna Beach Music Festival is unique for the intimacy of its venues – with music salons filled to capacity at less than a hundred guests and concert halls where no patron is more than a dozen rows from the stage. The festival fosters meaningful connections between artist and audience and enhances music appreciation with informal discussions, mini-concerts, workshops, open rehearsals and social events. The 2012 festival, featuring distinguished performers comes to you from February 6th through 12th.

The festival is a project of Laguna Beach Live! and the Philharmonic Society of Orange County. Launched in 2003 with pianist Claude Frank as mentor artist and the young Calder Quartet as emerging artists, it has since grown to a full week of activities. This year’s Laguna Beach Music Festival honors the legacy of the late philanthropist and music lover Ed Halvajian.

Grammy Award-winning violinist Joshua Bell will serve as guest Artistic Director, partnering with composer-performer Edgar Meyer, the ever-surprising Calder Quartet and the youthful L.A.-based ensemble Calidore String Quartet, winners of the 2011 Fischoff Competition.

Joshua Bell has enchanted audiences worldwide with his breathtaking virtuosity and tone of rare beauty. In addition to numerous classical recordings, he has become a household name thanks to his many soundtracks including the Oscar-winning score for The Red Violin. His release, Romance of the Violin, was named the 2004 Billboard Classical CD of the Year. He has crossed musical borders to work with jazz, folk and traditional artists – notably with banjo wizard Sam Bush and guitarist Mike Marshall in Short Trip Home.

Equally lauded as classical virtuoso, concert music composer and American roots music wizard, Edgar Meyer owns the double bass and frequently works with musicians from diverse traditions like Bela Fleck, Zakir Hussain and others who are all masters of their form. An in-demand collaborator, audiences crossed over from multiple genres in droves to enjoy his Appalachia Waltz project with cellist Yo-Yo Ma and fiddler Mark O’Connor.

Winners of the 2009 ASCAP Adventurous Programming Award, the Calder Quartet has emerged as a leading American quartet with high-profile projects, prestigious commissions and unique collaborations to their credit. As comfortable, and as captivating, when performing with indie rock bands like Vampire Weekend and Airborne Toxic Event as in the concert hall, The Calder were featured as “emerging artists” in 2003 at the first-ever Laguna Beach Music Festival. Since then, they’ve spent time as graduate quartet in residence at The Juilliard School and have earned their way onto the shortlist of cool young quartets whose skill and technique is matched by depth of musical passion.

For more info visit
www.lagunabeachmusicfestival.com

Valentine’s Gift Guide
By Krissy V.

Add a Little Flair
These pants by Saint Grace transition seamlessly from soccer Saturdays to dinner with the Smiths. As comfy as pj’s, yet the flattering fold over and flare look smashing with heels for a night out on the town! Made with a super long 40″ inseam and raw hem so you can easily cut them to your desired length. Available at Blue Eyed Girl (see p. 35) for $129. Not sure about her size, then purchase a Blue Eyed Girl gift card between February 1st and 14th and receive 15% off.

Hot Legs
She’ll have legs for days in these “suspender” tights by Pretty Polly. Right on trend with a little black dress, with shorts or with little else. Available at Nordstrom for $34.

The Eyes Have It
Get long, luscious lashes with this lovely gift from Renu Med Spa (see p. 14). TWO bottles of Latisse® are just $150 during the entire month of February.

Heart of Gold
Steal her heart with this sterling silver and gold pendant from Zia Jewelry (see p. 25). Priced under $68 (regularly $238).

Message in a Bottle
These unique works by local artist Theresa Seidel are created with vintage glass and Swarovsky crystals, each adorned with a beaded loop and signature metal heart charm. For a romantic touch, drop in a heart-felt love note to your sweetheart. Available exclusively atJean-Jacques Mamie Fine Jewelry (see p. 14). The small bottle is $80 and the large bottle is $140.

Pucker Up
Kissable lips await at Seaside Skin Care in San Clemente (see p. 25). Give your Valentine
JUVEDERM® Ultra Plus filler (0.8 ml), a lip treatment, a lip plumper and a lip gloss for only $450 (package value of $675).

Bring on the Bling
If diamonds are a girl’s best friend then you’ll have a companion for life when she sees this sparkling 1 ct. tennis bracelet from Monaco Jewelers (see p. 43). Starting at $499.

Pop a Top
For the thirsty guy on-the-go, this iPhone case serves up both function and taste. Protect your iPhone 4S while raising a bottle to the love in your life. Available at Amazon.com for $12.95.

Check It
Get a hold of your honey’s to do list and cross off a few outstanding items. Cleaning out a closet won’t cost you a thing, but the gesture will be priceless.

Get Fresh
Remove redness, brown spots and reduce fine lines with an IPL Limelight PhotoFacial at Pure Indulgence (see p. 20) for only $175.00 (half-off the regular price!).

Rub a Dub Dub
Treat yourself and a loved one to a relaxing rub at The Massage Associates (see p. 6). During February, they’re offering TWO, one-hour massages for a paltry $99. Purchase this offer by calling 949.489.7924 (you must mention The Local Dish Magazine) and receive your massages by appointment throughout the month. At Massage Envy (see p. 21), buy a $100 gift card before February 14th and get a free AromaTherapy upgrade!

Sundried Tomato – All New Seasonal Menu
By Cathy Villafana

Nestled in the historic district of San Juan Capistrano is the Sundried Tomato Café, where guests can savor both tried-and-true favorites as well as new menu creations. “We enjoy keeping our menu fresh each season and are excited about our new fall/winter items,” says Rob Quest, Jr., managing partner for Sundried Tomato, which also has locations in San Clemente and Laguna Beach. With that in mind, I had to check it out for myself.

My husband and I started off with the new Crispy Shrimp Wonton Wrappers that disappeared all too quickly from our plates. We then sampled the fresh, plump Black Mussels served with a Saffron Cream. Be sure to keep bread handy for dipping in the delicious sauce. We also tried both types of the Mini Rustic Jars — which contain sundried tomato hummus or a layered torte with sundried tomato, pesto, and whipped goat cheese, then served on a flatbread. The verdict is still out on which is my favorite.

Not new, but certainly worth mentioning, is Dr. Rick’s Salad. This is such a wildly popular item that it actually receives applause after a hiatus from the menu. After one bite, I could see why.

Originally a catering favorite, the Pasta-less Vegetarian Lasagna also made its debut on the updated menu with its layers and layers of fresh vegetables. Last but not least, was the Braised Beef Pappardelle topped with Goat Cheese, which I nominate for a permanent spot on the menu!

Of course, you can never go wrong with the classic Signature Creamy Sundried Tomato Soup or one of the daily soup creations. This makes for a great starter or can be a meal in itself. Whatever you decide to eat, you’ll be pleased by the variety of offerings, both old and new.

Sundried Tomato features happy hour specials every day from 2 to 7 p.m. at all three locations and full-service or take-away catering is also available.

3 Great Locations:
San Clemente
821 Via Suerte
949.388.5757

San Juan Capistrano
31781 Camino Capistrano
949.661.1167

Laguna Beach
361 Forest Avenue
949.494.3312

Keeping Your Family Health
By Shelley T. Hudson

Whether you’re a sleepy mom with a coughing toddler, an aching weekend warrior or you’re just due for a routine exam, Ross Medical Associates is your family’s healthcare solution 365 days a year. This all-encompassing medical center incorporates the personalized attention of a family practice and the state-of-the art equipment and extended hours of a hospital emergency room. Ross Medical’s comprehensive approach to healthcare services facilitates an open line of communication between clinician and patient at an unparalleled level of access and convenience. All four locations in South Orange County are at your service every day of the year, and each has a small in-house pharmacy and laboratory as well as on-site radiology.

Ross physician and partner Dr. Karl Gebhard describes the practice as a “modern approach to family medicine and disease prevention.” “We provide the whole spectrum of medical care,” he continues, “from broken bones to hypertension.” Dr. Gebhard points to Ross’s recent administration of the whooping cough vaccine to hundreds of school children as an example of how many local residents first learn about Ross. Students come in for a vaccine or physical, and parents are impressed with the quality of care and overall experience.

The San Juan Capistrano facility is the latest addition to the group, which was founded by the late Dr. T.A. Ross. The core staff of physicians, including Dr. Gebhard, Dr. Andrew Klein and Dr. Monina Geda recently brought Dr. Lizander Pandy on board to complete its group of providers. Dr. Pandy is board certified in Family Medicine and also has a Sports Medicine Fellowship.

Community-Oriented
Ross Medical Associates looks to expand its reach within South Orange County as well. The offices continue to provide sports physicals to student athletes free of charge as part of an ongoing community outreach. In fact, Dr. Gebhard was approached recently by a bike and board shop owner about sports physicals for his skateboarding team and the doctor gladly obliged. “This is how we see growth within a practice,” remarks Dr. Gebhard, “It seems that once a patient receives treatment from Ross, we see the rest of the family soon after.”

Maintaining a reputation as a reliable community resource is a key component to the Ross philosophy. Sponsoring local events like the Swallows Day Parade and partnering with charitable organizations for food drives has helped to perpetuate Dr. T.A. Ross’s mission: to provide high quality healthcare to the community at large where and when it is needed.

Grandkids to Grandparents
Dr. Gebhard says his patients range in age “from one to 100,” and come to his office for every type of treatment. Since all four locations share electronic records, a patient can expect the same high standard of care at all Ross Medical facilities. Each treatment room is equipped with a computer, so every aspect of a patient’s medical history can be recorded and promptly accessed. Routine testing and follow-up treatments can be tracked and monitored, and chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes can be more easily managed with this precise type of quality control.

One Stop Care
With the convenience of an in-house pharmacy, laboratory and X-ray imaging, Ross Medical Associates is literally a one-stop shop for all things healthcare. Dr. Gebhard shared a story about a family for which he treated all three kids for earaches. Their exhausted mother was very grateful to have prescriptions dispensed on the spot, rather than having to face a long pharmacy line. Another young patient came to Dr. Gebhard complaining of a sprained ankle. After an X-ray indicated a fracture, the patient was fitted with a cast and was soon on her way. A little boy with a significant cut on his head from a scooter accident was stitched up and ready to ride again…all without the excruciating wait time at a hospital emergency room.

Ross Medical Associates: Solving life’s little problems–one headache, broken arm and cholesterol check at a time. With Ross’s four locations and extended evening, weekend and even holiday hours, easy access to high quality medical services is just minutes away.

Closet Crush
By Krissy V.

Hung up on a messy closet? Then make a date to turn your nightmare into a dream with an organized, functional and stylish space.

Get that Bod in Shape!
By Shelley T. Hudson

Bella Pilates
Jump start your fitness regimen with the extensive class schedule offered at Bella Pilates. A variety of options including prenatal and rehabilitation classes will help build your new body using the principles of the core-centric practice of Pilates. A special package for new clients is available now—30 days of unlimited group reformer classes for only $99! Call (949) 388-2747 for more info!
Talega Village Center | San Clemente

Kardia Fitness
Make Kardia Fitness part of your New Year’s Resolution! Kardia’s FREE weight loss study is back by popular demand. Results are guaranteed from the proven system of accountability and professional guidance. The first 25 participants will receive 24/7 access to the private facility, two FREE fitness coaching sessions per month and two FREE weeks of semi-private training. Call (949) 661 – 1213 to start shedding those extra holiday pounds!
24582 Del Prado | Dana Point

Seafit Studio
Seafit Studio offers a unique twist to reformer Pilates that combines cardio and strength training in a circuit to strengthen, lengthen and tone the entire body. Each class is an energizing, low-impact 45-minute Megareformer session with pumping music and encouraging instructors. Come join the devotees and get addicted to fitness! Register online at seafitstudio.com and enjoy your first three classes for only $39, or sign up for a month of unlimited classes for only $159. Get started by calling (949) 388-0002 today!
31654 Rancho Viejo Rd. | San Juan Capistrano

Curves
Curves has been reinvented! Start your own success story with Curves Complete and recommit to a healthy lifestyle. Curves incorporates diet, exercise and motivation into a complete weight loss solution. Latin dance-inspired ZUMBA and traditional strength training exercises keep you on your toes, and the Curves Smart technology helps you track your progress. Programs start at only $10. Call (949) 366 – 3680 for your personalized fitness assessment.
101 Via Pico Plaza | San Clemente

Dana Point Jazzercise
Jazzercise sculpts, tones and lengthens muscles through a combination of dance-based cardio, strength training and stretching. This powerful and effective workout burns up to 600 calories in one fun, high energy session. Dana Point Harbor’s OC Sailing & Events Center provides the serene backdrop. Start for $0 down and $0 for your first month if you join in January. Call (949) 492 – 7817 or visit jazzercise.com for more info.
34451 Ensenada Pl. | Dana Point

Zen Dojos
Aside from alligator wrestling or snake wrangling, few activities combine the focus and physicality of the martial arts. Zen Dojos in San Juan Capistrano can help you learn to conquer any potential predators that may be lurking about in your world. They offer programs in Kempo Karate for all ages and adults only classes such as Krav Maga, Muay Thai kickboxing and Jiu-Jitsu. Come in and start training with the best. Challenge yourself to an awesome fitness experience and take advantage of their speical, $100 off any adult program for new clients!
Marbella Plaza | San Juan Capistrano

Training Camp
Training Camp is a comprehensive fitness center featuring a hot yoga studio, bootcamps, personal training and an outdoor track and field. The facility is tucked away on two lush acres in San Juan Capistrano bordering San Clemente. Come get lost in this unique setting without leaving the neighborhood. Mention this article at the front desk and get a FREE week! Call (949) 489-8100!
34000 Via De Agua | San Juan Capistrano

North Beach Kettlebells
North Beach Kettlebell’s 45-minute power session combines strength, flexibility, mobility and cardio fitness. The HKC and RKC-certified instructors implement a variety of kettlebell, body weight and TRX Suspension training exercises for a head-to-toe workout that is both fun and rewarding. With its beautiful, open facility, NBKB provides a motivating atmosphere for clients at all levels of fitness. Join in January and score an intro class plus two weeks FREE (for new clients)—a $150 value! Visit nbkettlebell.com and use promo code DISH12 to take advantage of this exclusive offer.
520 N El Camino Real | San Clemente

Thai Palace…Sweet and Spicy
By Cathy Villafana

If you are a Thai food lover looking for the newest hot spot (pun intended), be sure to check out Thai Palace located on the corner of La Pata and East Avenida Pico in the Talega area of San Clemente. Nearly open for a year, Thai Palace is sister to Thai Paradise, which opened in San Clemente 10 years ago.

My friend and I found ourselves amongst the busy lunch crowd, who is clearly in the know about the great lunch deals, but more importantly, the tasty dishes we were about to try.

We started our meal with a Thai staple — vegetable spring rolls. Served with a sweet plum sauce, these light-tasting rolls were crispy on the outside and filled with fresh vegetables and glass noodles. If you prefer a decadent appetizer, opt for the Ching Chang Thong. The deep-fried wontons are filled with avocado and cream cheese and served with a plum sauce and cucumber chunks. You’ll be arguing over who gets the last one!

Next we tried a bowl of Tom Kar soup, the ingredients of which may seem eclectic to the inexperienced Thai eater, but the final result is a pleasing flavor that grows with each bite. We chose shrimp to accompany this delicious mixture of fresh vegetables simmered in coconut milk, lemon grass, lime juice and spices.

We would be remiss if we did not try a curry dish, and Panang Curry certainly filled the bill. The tangy flavor and increasing heat from this dish was a pleaser with its creamy sauce, large chunks of chicken and fresh cut green beans. Clearly, Thai Palace has found that sweet spot where refined flavors and spiciness (if you choose) come together for a great meal.

Thai Palace’s lunch specials can’t be beat – ranging from $8 to $10 for an entrée, green salad, fried wonton and rice. Whether you try one of the menu’s nearly 75, MSG-free selections for lunch, dinner, take-out or delivery, you will not be disappointed by the value and rich flavors. Gluten-free options are also available upon request.