Choice

Superfood Bar & Juicery

by Dina Scaglione

For some of us foodies, the pandemic provided an opportunity to hit the reset button and pay closer attention to wellness and nutrition. From cold-pressed juices to superfood smoothies and other delectable bites, San Clemente’s newest eatery believes a nutritious meal should be delicious, life giving, and attainable.

Far from another juice bar or acai bowl joint, Choice Superfood Bar & Juicery serves up plant-based, gluten free, sustainably grown and downright tasty meals. Owner and founder Nastasha McKeon began Choice in San Diego in 2014, which has since evolved into a staple for locals and tourists alike, delivering a unique take on flavorful, colorful, and responsibly sourced plant-based food.

With six booming locations in Solana Beach, Encinitas, and Carlsbad, Nastasha began searching for a seventh in South OC to share her mission and vision for lifestyle nutrition. An avid surfer, Nastasha has always held a soft spot for San Clemente’s blissful waves and laid-back coastal vibe, so naturally she saw the potential to bring this positive energy to the downtown area. Selecting a location on the corner of Avenida Del Mar and El Camino Real, the go-to-market strategy has been simple: no big grand openings or elaborate marketing plans. Nastasha prefers a grass roots approach, bringing value to the community, building relationships, and supporting other businesses through co-marketing activities.

Wondering what makes Choice different from other healthy menu restaurants? First, employees are appropriately trained to educate diners on the “plant food is medicine” philosophy. Their role is to help customers understand the value of organic food and ensure each location is approachable, friendly and inviting. Another key difference is in the integrity of the products. Choice serves only fresh, certified organic fruits and vegetables, preparing everything in-house, including baked goods and even the almond milk. The fresh fruit and veggie juices include the earthy beet juice with grapefruit, apple, ginger, lemon, chia and mint. All are made from pure ingredients, with no added water or any kind of pasteurization which can change the molecular structure. Made-to-order smoothies boast plant-based protein, lots of fiber and rich omegas.

If you’re feeling run down, grab the Dawn Patrol cold-pressed juice featuring carrot, orange, ginger and turmeric to help bolster your immunity. Nastasha recommends the Ginger Bae with apple, lemon and ginger to aid digestion. Her favorite creation is the metabolism boosting Skinny Green with cucumber, apple, spinach, kale, jalapeno and lime — a little heat and a ton of flavor.

Choice’s acai bowl is of the highest quality. They also offer flavorful smoothies for wellness on the run. The Avatar smoothie is made with blue majik, a bright aqua powder derived from spirulina extract, which is both filling and delicious. The Spicy Amore smoothie is made with plant-based milk, dates, eco-protein powder, banana, maca, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne, sprouted almonds and cacao. Naturally sweetened with whole fruit, any smoothie can also be made into a bowl. They are blended extra thick and enjoyed with house made granola and fresh fruit toppings.

Choice also offers grab and go meals like the Mediterranean power bowl made with quinoa, spinach, kalamata olives, cherry tomato, and cucumber. The avocado toast features homemade super loaf bread layered with roasted garlic hummus, avocado, sprinkled Brazil nut parmesan “cheese,” and served with a spring mix side salad. Delicious snacks like the protein brownies are made with sprouted almond flour, almond butter, dates, applesauce, coconut oil, vanilla, protein powder, coconut flour, cacao powder, and sweetened with coconut sugar. They deliver all of the delicious taste, without the sugar crash.

Healthy food can truly taste amazing, provide satisfying nutrition, and arm you with the proper brain fuel to power you through the day. Whatever preconceptions you may have about eating well, Choice Superfood Bar & Juicery will have you rethinking the way you eat and feel. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the winter months and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in spring through fall. Stop by and get a taste of good health.

Choice Superfood Bar & Juicery
104 No. El Camino Real, San Clemente
949.538.6735

Triton Air

Extraordinary Service and Generosity

For over 20 years, Triton Air has been helping families enjoy clean air and comfortable temperatures at home. After a few hotter-than-usual summers, you might say that the Triton Team and founders Michael and Kimberly Nicolai are now genuinely saving lives in the African country of Malawi. That’s where an ambulance funded by Triton Air customers, employees, and the local community transports patients and pregnant women to give birth at a hospital. Covering the 30-mile radius of a single hospital where roads are not paved, this 4×4 ruggedized vehicle has the ability to navigate the steep and winding terrain. 

This past year, the ambulance was en route to David Gordon Hospital with a woman in labor when it approached a steep leg of the journey and the baby decided it couldn’t wait. In the back of the Triton Air ambulance, over 10,000 miles away from Orange County, the woman gave birth to a healthy baby boy. The mother, whose other options to get to the hospital included walking or ox cart, was so grateful to have the assistance of EMTs and a safe, clean place to deliver that she gave the boy a truly remarkable name: Triton. 

For those who know Michael and his wife Kimberly, giving and providing for those in need is their passion. In 2022, they installed free in-home systems for two recovering cancer patients, one of whom was a former hospice nurse.

Triton Air also partnered with Lennox and PW Stephens to install a free heating and duct system for a nearby women’s shelter. The facility works to bridge the gap between high school and adulthood for kids who have recently left foster homes and need a place to live. 

Michael says the experience reminded him that many young people need a hand as they move into the workforce. While most Orange County parents encourage their children to attend college, Michael knows it’s not for everyone, and for some, a career as a skilled tradesperson is a much better fit. “The trades are a wonderful avenue for learning mechanics, engineering, controls, and how to communicate and connect with people,” he says. 

Tradespeople are in tremendous demand and have an opportunity to impact the community while providing for a family. To answer the call, Michael created a page at tritonair.com where those with or without experience may apply. Working with heating and AC involves unique and valuable skills, and Michael wants to help launch careers in this area. “It’s so much more than installations and repairs,” he says. “If you’re honest, have character, and like working with your hands and mind, scan the code to start the conversation and explore the opportunity!”

Michael also wants to help homeowners warm their homes this winter. With chillier temperatures this time of year, he says you may hear noisy vents when running your heat at night. Here are Michael’s tips for a quieter home: 

1. Turn the heat on, go to the noisy vent, and if it has an adjustment lever, try opening or closing the vent by moving the lever by as much as an inch. DO NOT fully close the vent. Sometimes even the slightest adjustment makes a big difference in reducing the sound. 
2. If adjusting the vent doesn’t help, you may want to upgrade the vent to a quieter, high-flow style. 
3. Another option is to install duct-rated sound reduction insulation to decrease the noise. 
4. For larger rooms, consider the addition of a second vent. “We often find that adding an additional return or supply vent to master bedrooms greatly reduces noise and generates more consistent temperatures,” he says. 

If you’re looking for ways to create a more peaceful home environment, call Triton Air for their expertise and integrity. Contact them for sound advice and support the generous work of a purpose-driven company. Call 949-482-2492 or visit TritonAir.com today!

Triton Air
1221 Puerta Del Sol #300, San Clemente
949.482.2492 | TritonAir.com

At Stratford School, high expectations yield extraordinary results. The advanced yet intentionally balanced curriculum starts as early as preschool to inspire and nurture the minds and hearts of every student. From the outset, the school simplifies challenging concepts, then accelerates learning to enable students to study ahead of grade level, develop a love of learning, and prepare for the future. 

From Preschool through Grade 8, Stratford’s curriculum is infused with sequential instruction in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics — “STEAM” — to help students develop a diverse set of problem-solving skills and talents they’ll need in today’s world. We accomplish this through a unique cross-disciplinary approach that enhances critical thinking, integrates ideas from multiple subjects, and ultimately expands student learning. 

Beginning in Preschool, Stratford’s curriculum is designed to develop the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical building blocks. Hands-on, multi-sensory activities, including the Imaginative STEAM Play, encourage preschoolers to play and share with others, while developing their self-confidence, so each child discovers the joy and excitement of learning. 

In Elementary, the accelerated core curriculum exceeds the National Standardized ERB Results and motivates students to become critical thinkers and proficient writers. This balanced approach imparts students with not only a well-rounded education; it fosters the development of strong friendships, effective study skills, and blossoming self-confidence. 

Middle School continues the Stratford tradition of excellence. The faculty prepare and mentor students for placement in honors and advanced courses at top-tier private and public high schools. Stratford’s intentional approach to educating the whole child results in young adults who are gifted communicators, skilled, generous collaborators, creative problem-solvers, and confident, insightful leaders. 

The caring and passionate teachers cultivate a fun and nurturing classroom environment, where high expectations encourage students to try new things with confidence and enthusiasm. They present a broad spectrum of learning opportunities. They engage students. They invite questions. They encourage students to collaborate. Consequently, students laugh a lot, and learn even more. 

Learn more about Stratford’s Mission Viejo campus by visiting online or scheduling a tour at StratfordMissionViejo.com. 

Stratford School
24741 Chrisanta Drive | Mission Viejo, CA 92691
949.458.1776 • stratfordschools.com

St. Edward the Confessor Parish School is a preschool through eighth grade campus within the Diocese of Orange, sharing in the mission of the Roman Catholic Church to live the Gospel message by building Catholic identity through a Sacramental life of service to God, family, parish and community. 

CHARACTER
St. Edward students are #alwayslearning. The faculty and staff are dedicated to preparing students to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. St. Edward develops resilient, innovative and confident students. We strive to help our students grow spiritually, intellectually, socially and emotionally within a Christ-centered environment. 

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Consistent with Diocesan curriculum guidelines, St. Edward Parish School follows the Common Core State Standards for English and math and the California Next Generation Science Standards. We are first and foremost a Catholic school. All curriculum seeks to educate the whole child, forming their spiritual, intellectual, personal and social capacities through academic, religious, faith formation, service and co-curricular programs which prepares students for success in high school, college and career. Teachers use differentiated instruction, engage students through meaningful hands-on experience and cultivate curiosity and creativity. 

COMMUNITY
Faith and academics are at the core of the school, but the community is the heart. Special events such as Family Movie Night, Monarch Main Event and Community Coffee highlight just some of the ways our school community comes together. Parents are involved in the school, from volunteering at events on campus to coaching after school sports and attending weekly Mass. 

FAITH DEVELOPMENT
St. Edward prepares students to meet the spiritual and moral challenges of the future by providing opportunities to develop and strengthen Catholic values. Students pray daily, attend Mass weekly, participate in service projects and provide mentorship through Prayer Partners. 

CREATIVITY
Through Art, Music and dynamic Makerspace classes, St. Edward students are able to develop and explore their talents and imagination. The Makerspace studio integrates technology, engineering and innovation providing students opportunities to apply project based solutions to real world situations. St. Edward offers a variety of after school programs and sports to further engage students interests and curiosity.

St. Edward The Confessor Parish School
33866 Calle La Primavera | Dana Point, CA 92629
949.496.1241 • WEBSITE

When you walk onto St. Anne School’s campus in Laguna Niguel, you will likely hear students practicing musical instruments, laughing on the playground, or singing at weekly Mass. You might witness Grade 8 students designing a website on their MacBooks, second graders dressed in period costumes as they explore their ancestry on Ellis Island Day, preschool students engrossed in hands-on learning at their outdoor classroom, or a bus filled with Grade 5 students ready to take off on a field study’s trip to Astro Camp. 

St. Anne School is an independent Roman Catholic school celebrating 30 years of providing a supportive learning environment where each child is inspired to pursue their highest level of academic achievement, spiritual formation, and character development. The collaborative community of inspirational teachers, dedicated administrators, and committed parents ensures students are empowered to explore their God-given gifts, discover their passions, and envision their future as a positive influence on the world. 

The devoted teachers at St. Anne School are trained in differentiated instruction, using strategies that stimulate deeper thinking and discussion with students. St. Anne School continues to develop much more than a student’s academic skills. With a strong Student Support Services department, all St. Anne students benefit from a team focused on physical, personal, and mental well-being. This 11-person department also encourages character development and offers academic support for students with mild to moderate learning differences. 

Students are given the freedom to explore and discover their passions and gifts through various elective classes such as orchestra, studio art, digital media production, and creative writing. A St. Anne student might also discover they are passionate about spirituality and service to others. Guided by the teachings of the Catholic Church, St. Anne School offers a vibrant Campus Ministry program where students are encouraged to participate in Christian service, class retreats, Masses, and spiritual leadership while growing a deeper connection to their faith. After-school programs such as the award-winning HarmonKnights show choir, the school play, and a variety of sports teams also offer opportunities for students to continue to explore and grow. 

St. Anne School looks forward to celebrating its 30th school year filled with opportunities for students to explore their gifts, discover their passions, and envision their future. To schedule a private tour or learn more about St. Anne School, please contact the Office of Admissions at 949.371.9932. 

St. Anne School
32451 Bear Brand Road | Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
949.000.0000 • st-anne.org

Conveniently located in San Clemente, Our Savior’s Lutheran School (OSLS) is a developmental, play-based, Reggio-inspired, Christian Preschool and Infant Center. Our Savior’s is a close-knit family that understands and values exceptional education, equipping children to be positive members of their community. 

OSLS is committed to excellence through a creative and energizing curriculum, with a strong social, emotional, and Christ-centered foundation. Curriculum is modeled around Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences. It’s highly qualified and inspirational staff provide a quality educational experience. All OSLS families receive constant communication regarding their child’s growth, supported by assessments and progress reports along with parent-teacher conferences. This partnership facilitates an extension of the child’s day into the home and bridges the learning opportunities both at school and beyond. 

Our Savior’s Lutheran School provides a unique opportunity for children to be engaged in a developmentally appropriate environment with a child-centered approach. The preschool team designs their curriculum and lesson plans starting with the California Preschool Learning Foundations, customizing instruction based on the child’s individualized goals and needs. These developmentally appropriate practices and classroom experiences intentionally foster exposure to the world around the child and capture the many moments of curiosity. Throughout the day, OSLS teachers guide student learning individually and in groups to explain, educate, and empower the children, encouraging them to ask questions and explore their learning environment. They understand that every child develops at their own pace while being committed to continuous growth and excellence in all levels of early childhood education. With a long-term education in mind, OSLS’s most important goal is to foster and encourage a love of learning. 

The Infant Center has two large, ocean view rooms with highly qualified and loving teachers. Instructors work with each family to ensure a smooth transition from home to school. They use the Brightwheel app which will keep you updated on your child’s day, routine, feeding schedule, naps as well as receive pictures and messages. 

To find out more about Our Savior’s Lutheran Preschool and Infant Center, please call the school at 949.492.6165 or email the Director, Amy Rivas, at a.rivas@oursaviorsschool.net. Follow on instagram @osls_sanclemente. 

Our Savior’s Lutheran Preschool and Infant Center
200 Avenida San Pablo | San Clemente, CA 92672
949.492.6165 • oursaviorsschool.net

Our Lady of Fatima Academy is a TK-8th grade Catholic elementary school. Its mission is to nurture individuals to discover their God-given gifts, to encourage them to use these gifts in the service of others and to empower them to be models of integrity and peacemakers who work for justice. Parents, school staff, and parish community collaborate in striving for educational excellence.

Our Lady of Fatima Academy
105 N. La Esperanza | San Clemente, CA 92672
949.492.7320 • olfschool.net

Mathnasium Learning Centers slogan is simple: “We make math make sense!” Whether your child starts out far behind or is ahead in math, Mathnasium helps students advance because they know that any child can be successful in math—it is a matter of teaching it in a way that makes sense to them. 

The experienced math tutors utilize proprietary teaching materials and techniques, The Mathnasium Method™. This instructional approach goes beyond traditional math tutoring to develop an understanding and build a love for math. Students are evaluated with a written and verbal assessment unique to Mathnasium to deliver a customized learning plan. Based on the results, Mathnasium develops an individually tailored program designed to address each student’s specific needs and close any educational gaps they may have so they can jump ahead and be ready for advanced math challenges. 

Students engage with their instructors in a unique combination of mental, verbal, visual, tactile, and written exercises. Basic math concepts and skills are specifically designed to help students build number sense. Mathnasium’s proven technique does more than just meet state math standards; it surpasses the recommendations of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Common Core State Standards. 

Instructors also help students understand their homework as part of each session and can prepare your child for school tests, as well as standardized tests such as the California High School Exit Exam, SAT, ACT and ISEE. 

If math is a problem, Mathnasium can solve it. At Mathnasium, students grow more excited and confident about math—and their grades reflect that. For students who already excel in math, the sky’s the limit. All students will discover that doors open to them by being proficient in math and how math can be applied to interesting areas such as computer science, biology, and psychology. 

By giving your child a firm foundation—and confidence—in math, Mathnasium can unlock the potential for continued educational success in the future. 

Mathnasium
Dana Point • 949-240-6284 • Mathnasium.com/danapoint
Ladera Ranch • 949-429-3020 • Mathnasium.com/laderaranch
Laguna Niguel • 949-360-6284 • Mathnasium.com/lagunaniguel
San Clemente • 949-481-6284 • Mathnasium.com/sanclemente

Studies have shown that children attending preschool do significantly better academically, developmentally and socially compared to children who do not enroll in a preschool. However, the simple fact of attending preschool does not guarantee any immediate or life-long benefits. The quality of a preschool is the critical factor. 

Marina View Preschool & Kindergarten was established over 25 years ago and in December 2012 had a change of ownership due to the previous owner’s retirement. The school is now owned and directed by Reshma Morey, a mother of two boys and an educator with over 17 years of teaching experience. The school cares for children ages 12 months to six years and provides a healthy balance of academics and a developmental program. The school offers an Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Junior K and K program. The school’s philosophy is to offer a strong, child-centered learning environment that educates the whole child: intellectually, socially, and emotionally. Marina View’s vision is to create a love of learning in children that lasts a lifetime. 

Marina View offers a rigorous academic curriculum that exceeds the California Core Standards in the Junior K and K classes and includes formal Spanish instruction. Mrs. Morey has also embarked on creating a sense of community amongst the parents by having events at the school such as the annual “Back to School Night,” Open House, Halloween Parade, Winter Holiday Recital, Father’s Day and Mother’s Day celebrations, Kindergarten Science Fair, and “Masters of Art” Show. There are a number of additional events scheduled for 2023 as well! 

Over the years, Marina View has built an impeccable reputation by having an effective and proven school curriculum and an attractive and safe school facility. The school provides a developmentally appropriate curriculum taught by long-tenured, degreed, and credentialed teachers and offers an introduction to Spanish in all classes, Learning Centers focused on math, art, reading, and science, and Enrichment classes in Gymnastics, Dance, and Spanish. 

If you are considering a preschool for your child, Marina View Preschool should definitely be on your list. 

Please call (949) 249-8687 to schedule a tour today or just stop by to visit the facility at your convenience. 

Marina View Preschool & Kindergarten
25301 Sweet Meadow Lane | Laguna Niguel
949.249.8687 • marinaviewpreschool.com