Capistrano Unified is dedicated to preparing students from preschool through high school to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. CUSD has an unwavering commitment to excellence in curriculum and instruction, strong emphasis and integration of mental health and emotional support, social emotional learning, and cultural diversity, ensuring graduates have multiple opportunities for college, military, career readiness, and independent living. The district has been able to invest even more into classrooms because of state and federal COVID-19 funds and over 300 additional teachers, speech pathologists, psychologists, counselors, and classified staff have been hired.

School counselors and psychologists support social, emotional, behavior, and academics to ensure that every learner can be successful. Counselors provide academic, college and personal counseling and are available on all campuses.

AWARD WINNING SCHOOLS
CUSD has 11 campuses nationally recognized by The American School Counselor Association (ASCA) as Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) schools, for delivering an exceptional data-informed counseling program and an exemplary educational environment: Aliso Viejo, Shorecliffs, Marco Forster, and Las Flores middle schools, Ambuehl, Castille, Hidden Hills, and Vista Del Mar elementary schools, Esencia K-8, and Tesoro and Capistrano Valley High Schools.

PUBLIC EDUCATION EXCELLENCE

• California Distinguished and National Blue-Ribbon Schools
• Best Communities for Music Education Designation from the NAMM Foundation for outstanding commitment to music education
• Visual & Performing Arts dedicated to artistic excellence
• Championship caliber Athletic programs

ELEMENTARY

• Class size reduction
• Full and Half-Day Preschool Programs (Ages 3-5)
• Transitional and Full-day Kindergarten
• Spanish and Mandarin Language Immersion
• Award-winning TK-12 general music, instrumental & choral instruction
• Gifted and Advanced Learners (GATE)

SECONDARY

• College & Career Advantage: 31 career pathways leading to industry certifications and degrees
• High School Specialized Academies
• College @ Capo: College credit courses taught by Saddleback College faculty on high school campuses
• Futureology helps students navigate the college & career track
• International Baccalaureate Programs
• Advanced Placement Courses
• Career Technical Education (CTE) Labs
• FIRST® Robotics: FTC and FRC Competition Teams

Capistrano Unified School District
33122 Valle Road
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
949.234.9200
capousd.org

Sawdust Art & Craft Festival

ART • ENTERTAINMENT • EXHIBITS • SPECIAL EVENTS

The Sawdust Art Festival is back this summer for its 56th annual show, featuring the handcrafted work of 162 Laguna Beach artists and makers! The highly anticipated event returns with live music on three stages, free art and pottery classes, and its iconic artist village, hand-built by Sawdust artists. Visitors are invited to spend a summer day outdoors in beautiful Laguna Beach, immersed in the Arts. A satisfying variety of food and beverages are also available from six concessions and a fully serviced saloon. Don’t forget to check out the new murals onsite by local artists Ryan Gourley and Kate Cleaves. The summer show is open daily through August 28th from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday through Thursday. 

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THESE SPECIAL EVENTS:
Sip, Talk & Walk – Every Wednesday at 3 p.m.
Take part in docent-led tours of the festival grounds that include a history of the Sawdust, artist introductions and demonstrations in a variety of media and a selection of complimentary wine tastings. The experience is free with summer admission. 

Artists’ Benevolence Fund Art Auction – Sunday, August 14
The 36th annual art auction features works from over 100 Laguna Beach artists in a live auction. All of the proceeds benefit the Sawdust Artists’ Benevolence Fund, which provides financial assistance to local working artists who have suffered a catastrophic event leaving them unable to work. All artwork is donated by Sawdust artists to benefit their fellow artists in times of need. Mention this issue of The Local Dish Magazine and receive a free admission on August 14 to attend the auction (valid August 14, 2022 only). 

Beatles Day – Saturday, August 20
A summer tradition held every year, Beatles Day returns with a fun line-up of entertainment and 60’s themed festivities. 

OPEN DAILY
Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Sun. – Thurs. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Sawdust Art & Craft Festival
935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach
949.494.3030
sawdustartfestival.org

The Dana Point Classic Car Show

Sunday, August 28 | 10AM – 3PM

The Dana Point Classic Car Show returns to the Lantern District on Sunday, August 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thousands of spectators will stroll Del Prado Avenue to enjoy over 250 classic cars, vendors, music, spirits on the street, food trucks, and more. Families and friends of all ages, including our leashed and well-behaved four-legged friends, are invited to this free community event. 

Car enthusiasts and spectators are encouraged to vote for their favorite car. An award ceremony will take place on Amber Lantern at 2:15 p.m. Cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award at the Information Booth on Amber Lantern. Car Show merchandise will be available for purchase, and raffle items will also be up for grabs at the booth. Don’t forget to pose for a photo at the Classic Day Photo Station and tag #DanaPointCarShow. 

Adults, 21 years and older, can cruise the event while sipping beer, wine, and other spirits on the street! Visit the drink ticket booths throughout the event to purchase your wristband and tickets to savor tasty libations throughout the show’s three block radius. 

Many of the restaurants and shops on Del Prado will be open and ready to welcome you. Dine on one of the outdoor patios, shop at local retailers, or explore the handcrafted products at more than 30 vendor booths. 

Skip parking and traffic hassles and hop on the free Dana Point Summer Trolley. Service operates on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and makes drop-offs and pick-ups near the event. For a live trolley tracker, download the DP Trolley App or visit DPTrolley.com. 

FOR MORE EVENT INFORMATION,
VISIT DanaPointCarShow.com
or follow @danapointcarshow on Facebook and Instagram. 

Dr. Mogavero

Truly Invisible Braces

by Veronica Badzey

Let’s get one thing straight, orthodontics has come a long way. Your journey to a gorgeous smile is now faster and can be achieved more discreetly than ever before. If you’ve resisted or procrastinated having your teeth straightened, it’s the perfect time to visit the office of Dr. Frank Mogavero to explore the option that’s right for you.

Dr. Mogavero Orthodontics in San Clemente is hosting a free Scan and Smile Design Day on July 28, 2022. Teens and adults will have the opportunity to receive all-digital, high-resolution intraoral scans of their teeth at no charge. With digital scans, gooey trays and uncomfortable experiences are a thing of the past. Each Scan Day patient will have their digital scans evaluated by Dr. Mogavero himself. No referrals are needed to attend, and you may simply sign up at syncyoursmile.com/contact-us/request-an-appointment or by phone.

Have you ever wondered if Invisalign or InBrace would work for you? Scan Day is the perfect time to ask questions and to learn about the various straightening methods available. Dr. Mogavero offers Invisalign, InBrace, and several other options, but in his 32 years of practice, none has dazzled him like InBrace. He was one of the first South County orthodontists to offer the “hidden” InBrace system, and he recently reached a new milestone with the Irvine-based company. “My team and I have treated over 125 cases with InBrace,” says Dr. Mogavero. “We’re so impressed with Gen 2.0 [the latest version] because it’s even better and more efficient than the original.”

What is InBrace, exactly? Pictured on the cover with Dr. Mogavero, Co-founder and Chief Medical Officer John Pham says their flagship InBrace solution is all about making up for lost time. “InBrace allows people who have always wanted teeth straightening, but never got it, to create a perfect smile without the look of traditional braces. InBrace can do a treatment 30 to 50 percent faster than traditional braces. No one wants to look worse before they look better. InBrace allows you to look better and enjoy your smile from day one,” says Pham.

Developed at the University of Southern California by Pham and his team, InBrace is proudly manufactured in the U.S.A. It’s a premium product that Orange County residents have ‘embraced’ and are willing to invest in because it works so quickly. “Especially when it’s being done by a great orthodontist like Dr. Mogavero,” Pham adds.

InBrace patients notice a difference in their smiles right away, and so do their siblings. Davis Vasconcellos, brother of pro skater Nora Vasconcellos, received InBrace in March. When Nora saw him last month, she was amazed, “I never expected him to have results so fast!”

Of course, orthodontics is important for the entire family, and now that school’s out, it’s the ideal time to schedule your child’s appointment. Dr. Mogavero advises that children should visit the orthodontist for their first exam when they are seven years old. Even if teeth positioning isn’t a concern, he can examine a child’s airway and treat them for breathing or snoring issues.

Kids of all ages love visiting Dr. Mogavero’s snow and skate-themed San Clemente office, where they can sit in one of three real ski lift chairs from Mammoth Mountain, and marvel at the autographed skateboards and snowboards from megastars in each sport. At Dr. Mogavero’s office, Olympic medalists are also patients, so you may be smiling next to one of the best athletes in the world!

Dr. Mogavero Orthodontics
1031 Ave. Pico, Ste. 101, San Clemente
949.373.3737
SyncYourSmile.com
InBrace.me

San Clemente Ocean Festival

We’re back! Join us for a weekend of fun in the sun on JULY 16TH & 17TH as we celebrate 45 years of “The Greatest Show on Surf!”

“The Greatest Show on Surf” returns to San Clemente Pier on July 16 & 17 after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic. Ocean lifeguards, Junior Lifeguards, swimmers, multi-sport athletes and surfers compete for commemorative Ocean Festival medallions and cash prizes. Don’t miss the super exciting thrills and spills of the National Doryman Association Races on Saturday, where two person teams paddle 300 lb. dory boats in and out of the crashing surf!

On Saturday, catch the Push-In Division of the “Groms Rule” Surf Contest, an all-ages Fishing Derby on the Pier, and the 12th Annual Dolphin Dash Kid’s Beach Run, with nearly 200 children participating, south of the Pier. Saturday evening, lay down a beach blanket as the sun sets over Dana Point, enjoy a barbeque dinner and free concert featuring Idol X.

During both days of the event, the Youth Pavilion features games and entertainment for the entire family to enjoy. Car enthusiasts can stroll down the Pier to check out the Woodie cars on display (15 different ones each day) and in Parque del Mar, overlooking all of the action, an ocean art show takes place. Start off each day with a tasty pancake breakfast prepared by the San Clemente Lifeguards. Proceeds support the San Clemente Surf Lifesaving Association’s equipment and program needs.

Sunday, watch the next generation of surf stars in the continuation of the “Groms Rule” Surf Contest, enter or watch Sand Sculpting competitions (south of the Pier) and sponsor your lucky duck in the Great Rubber Duck Race.

There’s something for everyone to enjoy at the San Clemente Ocean Festival. To avoid traffic and parking issues, you may park for free at the Outlets at San Clemente and take the complimentary shuttle or ride the train directly to the festival. To register for athletic events, volunteer, and for a full schedule of events and additional information, please visit OceanFestival.org.

ADMISSION IS FREE.
The San Clemente Ocean Festival is a 501(c)4 non-profit organization that works in partnership with the City of San Clemente. Monies raised from the Ocean Festival help fund many worthwhile local community organizations and provide scholarships to local high schools.

2022 Summer Camps

949 VOLLEYBALL CLUB
949 Volleyball Club, celebrating 13 years in San Juan Capistrano, provides summer camps for both boys and girls, ages 9 to 18, at any ability level. The club has won 12 Junior Olympic medals, as well as 6 National Championships at the 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 Junior National Championships. The summer camp’s goal is to teach beginners the fundamentals of the game and to prepare juniors and seniors looking to compete in the NCAA. 949 Volleyball Club promotes sportsmanlike behavior inside and outside of the gym, instills the values of integrity, dedication and hard work, and focuses on having fun! Space is limited; please register early. For more information, contact Justin directly at 949.374.2890 or visit 949vb.com.

ACTING ACADEMY FOR KIDS
Acting Academy for Kids’ Performing Arts Camp offers two family-friendly South OC locations this year — Z Playhouse in Mission Viejo and Lyceum Village in Irvine. Daily classes in music, acting, and dance immerse kids, ages 5 to 14, in an authentic performing arts experience. The weeklong camps are each guided by professional educators and culminate in a student-centered production with sets, costumes, and lights. Ten distinct week-long programs run from June 6 to August 12. The “core camp” rate is $299 per week with early bird and after-camp enrichment options as well. Go to ActingAcademyforKids.com for details and production schedules.

AMERICAN BEACH VOLLEYBALL CLUB
We provide fun, encouraging, high-level training ALL YEAR LONG. Ages 14-24 & 12-15. We have an 8-12 year old group in summer only. Encouraging coaches teach hitting, passing, setting, defense, blocking and serving. We play at Doheny State Beach in Dana Point. More info: AmericanVollyballClub.com

BRAIN BUILDERS
Brain Builders puts the “STEAM” in education — science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Weekly summer camps start in June and children, ages 5 to 14, will learn concepts such as energy, thermodynamics, gravity, coding and more in camps such as Engineering with LEGO, Robotics, Video Game Design and 3d Printing! Themed camps are structured, goal-oriented and are either a half or a full-day. Sign up for an in-person camp at the Laguna Niguel or Tustin location. Get fee info and registration details at BrainBuildersEd.org and put on your thinking cap. Use promo code “DISH22” to receive 10% off any camp.

COMPREHENSIVE COLLEGE PREP
CCPrep has been THE local “go-to location” for SAT/ACT/AP Exam prep for over a decade. With its fun and friendly atmosphere, CCPrep has helped thousands of high school students prepare for their exams without the stress and pain most students associate with the process. CCPrep’s in-person SAT and ACT courses have options during both the school year and the summer, and provide an efficient, effective, and economical approach to test prep. Don’t forget about their successful AP Exam Reviews that boast an over 94% pass rate (compared to the national average of 59%). Course schedules can be found at ccprep.org or you can call their office at 949.305.6655 to learn more about schedules and offerings.

DANMAN’S DANA POINT MUSIC
Celebrating 23 years! Danman’s Dana Point Music offers 3 weeks of kid’s summer music camps starting June 20, including two weeks of Rock Camp and one week of Vocal Camp. Campers learn the process of creating a band, preparing a setlist, and delivering a live show, all within a Monday through Friday camp. In addition to making new friends, campers create a band poster, complete a band photoshoot, and rehearse for the live performance. Participants perform a live set on stage for family and friends at StillWater, at the end of camp on Friday. Instruction on guitar, piano, drums, bass, and vocals is provided by talented and inspiring professional music teachers. Bring in this ad or register before May 15 to receive $25 off. Camps are $299 per week and include snacks and drinks. Check out Danmans.com or call 949.496.6556 for more information.

FAIRMONT SCHOOLS
Keep your kids curious, challenged, and connected this summer. Fairmont’s award-winning summer programs offer a full line-up of educational programming — all within a safe environment which follows COVID protocols. CAMP (Preschool-8th Grade): High energy ACA accredited camp experience combining education, recreation, and field trips keeps kids engaged all summer long. SUMMER SCHOOL (Kindergarten-8th Grade): Reading, writing, and math taught by Fairmont teachers and individualized to meet students where they are so they can get ahead or stay ahead when school starts this fall. HIGH SCHOOL: Dozens of for-credit UC-approved courses for high school students. Enroll by April 15 for 10% off!

The Johnson Academy
Did you know that one out of every five children struggle in reading? Children who receive intervention before 3rd grade have a 90% chance of increasing their reading skills to meet their intellectual abilities. Due to the high demands of literacy, reading is more important than ever. In fact, reading proficiency is the biggest predictor not only of academic, but life success. The Johnson Academy, located in San Juan Capistrano, offers evidence-based reading and math interventions to improve reading, decoding, spelling, phonemic awareness, comprehension and vocabulary. If your child struggles with keeping up in school, please contact the academy to receive more information. Call 949.487.5251 or visit scheduling@ocsllcinc.com.

KG BEACH CAMPS
KG Beach Camps has been a part of the Dana Point Harbor since 1987. Children, ages 4 to 13, enjoy a variety of activities offered from three different camps based out of Baby Beach, near the Ocean Institute. Age-appropriate camps range from the Mini Minnows (ages 4 to 6) to Beach Safari (ages 6 to 9), and H20 Adventures (ages 9 to 13). Campers participate in activities such as trips to the local tide pools, bean bag toss, crab hunting, stand-up paddle boarding, sailing, kayaking, rowing, whale watching on Dolphin Dave’s Catamaran Safari, beach games, crafts and so much more. Camps fill up fast, so book early. Camps run from June 20 through August 12. Call 949.842.5211 or email SummerBeachCamps@gmail.com for more information.

JSERRA’S LION ENGAGE
Designed for students entering grades 7th and 8th, Lion Engage offers prospective students the opportunity to explore their passions and prepare for high school life at JSerra through hands-on courses and engaging activities. Students learn from passionate instructors, build relationships with high school student mentors, and develop their academic interests! Lion Engage is a week-long, full-day (8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.) program intended to expose students to diverse facets of high school life. For more information, visit jserra.org/lionengage or call Bret Dahlson at 949.493.9307 x1152.

LOS RIOS ROCK SCHOOL
Beginner/Intermediate and Advanced Rock Camps are available at Los Rios Rock School in San Juan Capistrano! Pick from 6 fun, full-week camps for ages 6 to 17, offering hands-on, live music training and playing with the best instructors and facility in Orange County. Parents, friends and family are invited to see campers live in concert on a professional stage on the last day of camp. Camp tuition is $399 for new students. When enrolling, be sure to ask about the “multiple camper” discount! Camps run Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. To enroll, please visit LosRiosRockSchool.com/SummerCamps. For details, call 949.456.1081.

MATHNASIUM
Mathnasium provides students with a customized learning plan and the personalized instruction they need to build their confidence and transform their math skills. Our expert instructors don’t just teach students to memorize or calculate, but to truly understand the way math works. This is why Mathnasium students make huge strides in the classroom and become more motivated and self-assured overall. Mathnasium is North America’s leading math-only supplemental education franchise. Since 2002 the Mathnasium Method™ — the result of decades of hands-on instruction and development — has been transforming the lives of children in grades K-12, helping them understand, master and love math. For more information, visit Mathnasium.com.

SAN CLEMENTE JUNIOR LIFEGUARDS
The San Clemente Junior Lifeguard Program is an ocean and beach safety program for young people ages 9 to 17. Participants receive education and experience in ocean safety, first aid, rescue techniques, body surfing, board surfing, physical fitness, and Marine Safety operations. This fun-filled, three-week program meets just north of the San Clemente Pier. Parents can choose from one of six sessions beginning in June and ending in August. New participants must first pass a mandatory swim test to be eligible to register for the Junior Lifeguard Program. Visit the JG website at San-Clemente.org/jg or call 949.361.8261 to learn more.

SOUTH COAST CONSERVATORY
Join South Coast Conservatory for an awesome 30th Anniversary Summer! Five-day camps for ages 4 to 10 includes Ballet, Hip-Hop, Cheer, Acting & Singing, and Circus Tricks! Choose from two-week, one-week and two-day intensives for intermediate and advanced levels (ages 7 to 17). All camps end with a show on the final day and extended camp options are available! All classes are taught by certified instructors who are focused on your child’s safety and happiness. Visit SCConservatory.com/summer for more info or call 949.367.0099.

ST. ANNE SUMMER KNIGHTS DAY CAMP
Summer is just around the corner, and St. Anne School in Laguna Niguel is excited to welcome back campers from preschool through middle school to the Summer Knights Day Camp! This fun-filled camp runs for seven weeks, from June 13 to July 29, 2022, 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Campers of all ages enjoy reconnecting with friends and making new ones. Adventure awaits as each week is filled with exciting activities such as field trips, gardening, beach days, water play, arts and crafts, and much more. New this year, St. Anne School is also offering Summer Enrichment classes for rising 5th through 8th-grade students. This program offers a variety of engaging and inspiring courses designed to expand students’ experiences and enrich their summer learning. Registration is now open. Visit St-Anne.org/summercamp for more details and to sign up.

WESTWIND SAILING
Welcome aboard! Westwind has been providing educational boating programs for the community since 1987. Programs include sailing camps, SUP camps, Adaptive sailing, after-school programs and boating classes for all ages and skill levels. Youth day camps are offered during Spring Break and all summer. Westwind is the 2021 Dana Point People’s Choice for “Best Camp for Kids” and “Best Harbor Recreation” and is a sanctioned U.S. Sailing, Community Sailing Center and STEM Hub. Camp scholarships are available from Cal Boating and the Dana Point Aquatic Foundation (contact Westwind Sailing directly for details). Find Westwind at the OC Sailing & Events Center in Dana Point Harbor. Call 949.492.3035 for more information.

YMCA OF ORANGE COUNTY SUMMER CAMPS
Adventure Awaits! This summer the YMCA is offering a large variety of camps and activities for children ages 4 to 14 across Orange County. Camps include; summer day camp (on school campuses), sports camps, esports camps, overnight “sleepaway” camps, arts & crafts and more! Find your child’s best summer adventure at the Y! Visit ymcaoc.org/summer to learn more.

South County Restoration

Repipe Before You Remodel

by Victoria Kertz

YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR THE 3 Rs: REPIPE, REMEDIATE AND REMODEL 

Facing a slab leak or plumbing disaster? Let South County Restoration in San Clemente come to your rescue. From the second you see water damage, call owner Casey McCants, before you contact your insurance provider. Casey’s team is your one-stop resource to stop the leak, repipe your home, repair the drywall, and perform the required remodel work. Many mitigation companies offer services to address only one component in the process, but South County Restoration offers a comprehensive solution, from the moment you notice a leak to the last repair detail. 

Since 2008, this dedicated team of professionals has been providing emergency water remediation and restoration throughout South Orange County. In addition to being a general contractor, Casey is also a trained homeowner advocate, so he is well-equipped to address insurance claim issues on your behalf. Casey has the knowledge and experience to answer insurance provider questions, file the claim, and recover the compensation you deserve. In some cases, insurance may even pay for a portion of your repipe. 

“He knows what to ask for,” Annmarie McCants explains. If it’s necessary for you to relocate to a hotel while the house is uninhabitable, Casey fights to make sure your living expenses are covered. “He spends hours on the phone. It takes legwork.” 

“Insurance companies want you to use their approved vendors and do the least amount of work to restore your home,” says Casey. That’s where South Country Restoration stands out. His team conducts a thorough investigation of the damage, suggests a long-term solution, and makes certain all work is done correctly. 

Water damage can quickly result in mold and other hazards that can wreak havoc on your health and home. The remediation and restoration process addresses the cause of the issue and stops mold from spreading in your walls and other spaces. Whether the job requires demolition, mold removal, or a basic dry-out, South County Restoration is committed to returning your family to a safe and healthy environment. 

How does the process work? First, call Casey at 949.536.8204. He and his dedicated team will initiate your claim, schedule the repipe, work with your insurance company to get the best settlement, and restore your property to its original condition. Casey’s team will arrive at your home at 8 a.m. on the day of repiping, cover everything in plastic, execute the repairs, and provide you with running water that very night. 

South County Restoration utilizes cross-linked polyethylene, better known as PEX, to bypass or replace existing pipes. PEX tubing is flexible and can be directly routed to where it needs to go. The product’s flexibility reduces the need to make joints and turns, while improving water pressure. A PEX repipe prevents future leaks and is designed to last a lifetime. 

After the repipe is completed, a second team arrives to repair the drywall, typically two days later. They also perform mitigation services, thoroughly clean and abate the area, conduct mold and asbestos testing, and provide moving and storage, as required. Only South County Restoration can repipe your home and repair the walls in as little as three days. 

Big box providers typically don’t have the time or inclination to partner with clients down to the details, but South County Restoration has and always will be a customer-centric, community-based company. Helping neighbors recover from water damage, so they receive prompt compensation from their insurer, is what Casey’s team does best. 

Have you been in your home longer than 10 years? Or perhaps your neighbor just repiped? It may be time for you to do the same. 

With a 24/7 Rapid Response Team standing by, and a 49-minute arrival time, call on South County Restoration when trouble arises. Check out SouthCountyRestoration.com and remember to call Casey, before you call your insurance company. 

Call South County Restoration BEFORE you call your insurance company!

Since 2008, Casey McCants has been working with insurance adjusters to negotiate and reach fair settlements for clients all around South Orange County.

South County Restoration
1064 Calle Negocio, Suite B, San Clemente
949.536.8204
SouthCountyRestoration.com

Irvine Greek Fest

A Taste of Greece

St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church will hold its 42nd annual Irvine Greek Fest on June 24, 25, and 26 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. The festivities will take place at St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church in Irvine at 4949 Alton Parkway, between Culver Drive and Jeffrey Road. 

A family-fun event, Irvine Greek Fest caters to adults and children of all ages with a variety of traditional Greek food and pastries, live music and authentic Greek folk dance, a kids’ play zone, boutique booths, a Greek Plaka (marketplace), bookstore, and church tours to learn about the ancient faith of Orthodox Christianity. 

“We’re excited to once again welcome our neighbors, friends, and families back to St. Paul’s for our 42nd Irvine Greek Fest,” says Father Steven Tsichlis, Senior Pastor of St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church. “Wander the grounds of our campus and savor the wonderful aromas and taste the delicious food. Listen to the sounds of the bouzouki and join us in Greek Folk Dance! At the heart of every Greek village is a Church – and so it is with us here at St. Paul’s! Take a tour of our beautiful Church containing Christian artwork done in Mosaic patterned after ancient prototypes that is unique in Orange County. We’re delighted to invite everyone for ‘A Taste of Greece’!” 

A highly anticipated focal point is the festival’s food and beverages, featuring a traditional Greek menu, delicious pastries, authentic drinks and a beer and wine “Taverna.” 

All profits from the event will benefit St. Paul’s Church and its charitable outreach ministries. Festival admission is $3 per person with free admission to children under the age of 10 and seniors 65+ on Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. Veterans, active service military and families, and first responders are always offered free admission. 

For more information visit IrvineGreekFest.com. 

Irvine Greek Fest
4949 Alton Pkwy, Irvine
949.733.2366
IrvineGreekFest.com

The Right Guy Real Estate Group

by Simon Guy

by Victoria Kertz

Orange County real estate continues to command top dollar, despite recent economic shifts. With more than 30 million in 2021 sales, Simon Guy posted a record year and is one of Keller Williams OC Coastal Realty’s premier agents. Don’t be fooled by Simon’s youthful looks, he’s represented buyers and sellers for nearly 15 years. Simon primarily focuses on real estate in San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano and has sold more than 500 homes. In 2021, he achieved record-setting sales prices for his sellers in both Forster Ranch Estates and Careyes in Talega. 

Competition for single family homes remains fierce. In Orange County, there are typically 5,000 to 7,000 active listings in any given spring, however inventory levels in mid-April are approximately 1,700. With South Orange County’s desirable schools, charming beach towns, and safe neighborhoods, homes are being snatched up quickly. Simon has the experience to navigate the nuances of the current market. This Dana Hills High School graduate now lives in San Juan Capistrano, which provides him with firsthand knowledge about the local area. With low inventory levels and rapidly changing market conditions, the expertise of a dedicated and sophisticated broker are vital in securing and selling real property in today’s competitive environment. 

The first step, Simon says, is to hire a full-time professional. Selling property yourself, or listing it with an inexperienced friend, relative or part-time agent, may translate into unforeseen consequences. Simon warns that a lack of information regarding current legal requirements and best practices may result in long-term issues that might have been prevented. “Real estate has been my focus since I was 18,” says Simon. Since then, he’s become a top-selling, award-winning agent, and has built a customer-centric team who gets the job done right. Simon makes certain his clients receive superior customer service, regardless of property value. His all-inclusive, team approach to real estate provides sellers with concierge-level service, including a full-time marketing coordinator and digital media director. 

In 2021, Simon’s listings averaged 6.5 days on the market with 95% of seller’s receiving offers over the asking price. As mortgage rates have increased, the number of potential home buyers is likely to decrease, making it that much more critical to have an innovative realtor representing you throughout the process. 

The Right Guy team includes Simon’s wife Daisy, who in addition to developing gorgeous digital and print marketing for clients, also has the most important job — taking care of their two young sons, John and James. Simon’s signature marketing plan ensures that your property is featured in its best light and is seen by as many potential buyers as possible. His team photographs, creates videos and print collateral for your property, and markets it online. Simon typically expects offers within 7 days of an authorized listing agreement. 

With record-setting home prices, rising interest rates and low inventory, now may be the ideal time to sell your home. Simon believes that during this rapidly changing real estate market, identifying the right offer and advising a client through the negotiation phase into the final closing is best left to an experienced agent. 

If you’re looking to sell your home, call Simon Guy of Keller Williams OC Coastal Realty. Your time is now. 

The Right Guy Real Estate Group by Simon Guy
Simon and Daisy Guy
Call or Text Today: 949.844.6882
SellWithTheRightGuy.com

Acting Academy for Kids & Teens

Parents & Kids Rave That AA4K is The Best in The OC!

by Victoria Kertz

Summer is right around the corner, and after two pandemic-plagued years, the team at Acting Academy for Kids and Teens is ready to burst into song! If your kids are looking for that quintessential summer camp experience, a place where they can make new friends and sharpen their performing arts skills, then look no further than the Acting Academy for Kids summer camp. 

With two locations, and a dedicated and talented staff, AA4K encourages children ages 5 to 14 to sing, dance, and act their hearts out. At camp, students work together over five action-packed days to learn, practice, and perform a dazzling mini-musical for their friends and families by the end of the week. 

If it sounds like a fast-paced, fun, and unforgettable experience; you’re right! Most of the camp counselors and activity directors are former campers who are home from college, doing what they love as a summer job. Stephen Zygo, founder and creative director of AA4K, says that seeing alumni return for summer jobs is immensely gratifying. The best part, he says, is seeing the shyest kids sing their first notes, break out of their shells, and shine on stage. 

One camper, who was just five years old last year, loved it so much that he stayed with the theatre program all year long. The boy’s father told Stephen that AA4K camp was a life-changing experience. “He’s finally found his happy place,” says Stephen. 

Now in its 15th year, AA4K’s summer camp runs for ten weeks in two locations: Irvine and Mission Viejo, at the corner of Alicia and Muirlands in the Vista Paint Plaza. Mission Viejo’s Z Playhouse is AA4K’s flagship venue, with a 115-seat theatre and state-of-the-art facilities like an LED video wall for Broadway-like projections, plus additional rooms for dance and concessions. In Irvine, the Lyceum Village community building provides a convenient location for parents who work or live in the area. Both venues are air-conditioned and family-safe. 

Wondering what kind of music is performed? Students of the academic year full-scale musical vote on each theme, so the content is always familiar and kid-approved. This summer’s lineup includes popular movie and Broadway hits, plus two new shows inspired by blockbuster family movies that your kids will definitely know and love. 

All levels of performers are welcome! “Summer camp is a great way to ‘test-drive’ theatre,” Stephen says. Kids are trained in singing, acting, dancing, and fusion, which ties all three disciplines together. If your child has performed in the past, this camp is a great way to reinforce their skills, help them grow as an artist, and, of course, make new friends. 

Students who are unable to attend summer camp, but still want to immerse themselves in the performing arts, can participate in one of Acting Academy’s several academic year programs. Academic year students attend rehearsals and perform full-length musicals throughout the school year. The AA4K staff also offers private lessons for voice, piano, audition prep and TV/Film. 

There are lots of new offerings, too! As more teens are learning about AA4K, they have found a home and a welcoming venue with their new teen-focused production for teens ages 13 to 17. These thespians will learn and perform a show inspired by a major Broadway hit. This summer it’s The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee! And for the jokesters in your family, the Mission Viejo location now hosts stand-up comedy classes for both kids and adults. Comedy has proved so popular that professional comedians have also started performing at the Playhouse. 

Whether your child shows interest in the performing arts or is already honing their musical skills, Acting Academy for Kids is a safe and inclusive place to learn, make new friends and create memories that will last a lifetime. Summer camp registration is now open for 2022 at ActingAcademyForKids.com. 

Acting Academy for Kids & Teens
949.427.0072
ActingAcademyForKids.com