Morena Tile & Stone

John & Linda Schrab

Morena Tile and Stone, in San Juan Capistrano, is a 5,000 square foot store showcasing one of the largest selections of tile, and natural and engineered stone in South Orange County. The business was opened in 2014 by John Schrab and his wife, Linda, with the goal of creating a convenient, local resource where one can find an abundance of fun, imaginative and up-to-date tile and stone—all under one roof. 

As a family-owned business, John and Linda focus on customer service and building relationships with their clients, while helping to bring their projects to life. From mild to wild and traditional to modern, they will assist in finding the perfect materials for your dream kitchen or bath. Morena’s designers are on hand to assist customers with navigating through the myriad of choices to get their project started and they serve as a resource every step of the way—from concept to completion. 

Homeowners, designers and contractors love the vast product selection and convenience of shopping locally, in a store where everyone knows your name. John, a 4th Generation tile and stone contractor, is willing and available to answer your questions and provide advice on materials, design, and installation. He believes in treating customers like family and understands what it takes to make your project come to fruition. 

Whether you’re undertaking a major home renovation, updating your kitchen island or installing a tile floor, Morena Tile & Stone offers all of the necessary components to manage your project in-house. Along with a gorgeous variety of materials for you to choose from, there’s also an on-site fabrication shop with a crew of master craftsmen that have worked for John for decades. This level of experience and cutting-edge technology, combined with old-world craftsmanship, provides clients with the reassurance that their project will be done correctly and beautifully. As John likes to say, “We make things pretty every day.” 

Visit Morena Tile & Stone when you’re ready to embark on your next home improvement project. John and Linda would love the opportunity to offer you a cup of coffee while you look around, and they’d be proud to add you to their long list of satisfied customers. 

Morena Tile & Stone
32951 Calle Perfecto
San Juan Capistrano
949.682.3026
TileandMarble.com

Lantern Bay

Gene DeCollibus

Gene DeCollibus of Lantern Bay Interiors and Flooring has been creating beautiful floors for nearly four decades. After 38 years in Dana Point, Gene relocated his store this past month to the Capistrano Business Center off Ortega Highway in San Juan Capistrano. Although he may be a couple miles further away from his daily ocean view, he’s loving his new showroom and warehouse. Gene added that he now has his shortest commute to work ever, and that’s a huge plus. 

After being raised on the east coast in Buffalo, New York, Gene made his way out west and settled in Dana Point in the early 1980s. With the start of his new family, he sought the opportunity to work closer to home so he opened Lantern Bay Carpets & Flooring on PCH near Blue Lantern in 1984. Gene raised four kids through the years, and he proudly will share photos of any of his six grandchildren. 

Anyone who meets Gene will be impressed by his energy and friendly disposition. Though his voice still maintains a hint of his east coast upbringing, Gene has become California cool. At an age when many contemporary flooring veterans may be looking at exit plans for their business, Gene appears invigorated by his new move. Along with his trusted employee Susan, Lantern Bay is humming right along at their new home. 

“My customers make it a pleasure to do business here in the community. I owe them tremendous thanks for the success of Lantern Bay,” stated Gene. His company motto says it all… “Lantern Bay Interiors and Flooring — Where Quality and Service Comes First.” 

Lantern Bay has an array of wood, vinyl, carpet and area rugs to fit your flooring needs. They also have window coverings to complete your rooms. From high-end luxury to budget-friendly values, they have something to meet everyone’s needs. With personalized service, an expert staff and professional installers to complete your project on time, visit Gene at Lantern Bay today. 

Lantern Bay
27128 Paseo Espada, Ste. 1501
San Juan Capistrano
949.240.1545
LanternBayCarpets.com

Doheny Builders Supply

Kyle Goerlitz

Doheny Builders Supply in Capistrano Beach was founded by Tracy Clow in 1975. After Tracy passed away several years ago, Kyle Goerlitz purchased the well-respected business in 2018. Kyle is a veteran in the construction industry, as he also owns Gary Bale Redi-Mix Concrete. Marrying the raw materials available from Doheny Builders Supply with his concrete business was a perfect match.

Kyle’s team of pros continue to be the one-stop-shop for residential and commercial building materials in South Orange County. They have served local homeowners and contractors for over 47 years, maintaining a vast array of in-stock and custom products needed for most any construction project.

In 2021, Doheny Builders Supply created a beautiful window and door showroom on Doheny Park Road across from the Post Office in Capo Beach. Their sales experts include Gennie Neidermayer, Jennifer Logan, Erin Blake and Ann Mesa. The new showroom has a variety of premiere lines, including LaCantina Doors, JeldWen, Pella, Milgard, AG Millworks, Simpson Doors and Contractors Wardrobe. Whether you’re looking to install stylish bi-fold glass patio doors, a new Dutch front door, or need to replace aging windows in your home, Gennie and her team can set you up for success.

If you have a masonry or landscape project, need raw materials, or are interested in pavers or flagstone for your driveway or patio, visit Brandi Jimenez and her pros at the original Doheny Builders Supply yard, just down the street from the window and door showroom. They proudly represent Orco, El Dorado, Acker-Stone, Spec-Mix, Belgard, Angelus Block and many more reputable manufacturers in the landscape and building industry. Just ask one of their experts. Their customer service is ready to assist you with new and existing orders to keep your project order on track. There is no job too big or too small for Doheny Builders Supply. Their motto says it all, “The right building materi-als for any job!” Call or stop by today!

Doheny Builders Supply
34276 Doheny Park Rd.
Capistrano Beach
949.240.3585
DohenySupply.com

DC Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning

Dave Colbert

In South Orange County, you’ve almost certainly seen one of the DC Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning trucks. And since owner Dave Colbert’s image appears on all five of his company’s vehicles, you’re sure to recognize Dave himself.

A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Dave settled in San Clemente and began his professional career. For over thirty years, “DC” has been providing professional plumbing and HVAC services to residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal customers throughout the county. “We do everything,” Dave says, “from regular maintenance to remodels, to real estate inspections and repairs.”

The company also offers “smart” home installations, like Nest thermostats, which allow you to control the temperature from an app on your phone. “Have you ever gone on vacation and returned home to a plumbing disaster? There’s an app for that, too!” adds Dave. “We install Flowlogic, a device placed on your main water service line that detects water leaks and shuts the water off for you. The Flowlogic app sends an alert to your phone.”

Not an app person? A new, cost-efficient water heater may be for you. “The Noritz tankless water heater is just bullet-proof. It comes with a 25-year warranty (regular water heaters only last 8 to 10 years) and energy rebates of up to $1000. We install at least two a week,” shares Dave.

His advice to every homeowner is simple. “Maintenance is the key to making things work long-term. Equipment and systems should be inspected once or twice a year. Filters require regular cleaning and replacement. If you don’t maintain your systems, you’re eventually going to have to replace them,” Dave advises.

DC Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning offers expert repair, maintenance, and new installation services. The team provides 24-hour emergency services, custom build-outs for new homes, and installation of the latest, smart home offerings available. For more information, call 949-365-9044 to learn what DC can do for you.

DC Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning
LIC. # 1006819
1225 Puerta Del Sol, Suite 500
San Clemente
949.365.9044
DCplumbing.net

Capistrano Hardwoods

Dave Smith

When veteran carpenter Dave Smith de-cided to open his own supply house, he searched for a location that was in desper-ate need of a quality lumber and specialty hardwood warehouse. He discovered San Juan Capistrano, a city located far south in the county. Tradesmen were accustomed to driving up to Anaheim to locate the exact moldings and custom woodworking solutions for their customers. In 1989, Dave opened Capistrano Hardwoods, off of Ave-nida Aeropuerto, where he and his team of experienced professionals have been de-livering quality, hard-to-find woodworking solutions ever since.

The business serves homeowners, do-it-yourselfers and tradesman with prices that beat the big box home improvement stores for moldings, windows and doors. “I’m thrilled to have been able to build a quality reputation for Capistrano Hard-woods these past thirty-two years,” states Dave, “Our amazing employees continue to provide excellent customer service and our customers are the most loyal clientele I’ve ever seen.”

When you need quality interior finish de-sign services, visit Capistrano Hardwoods. The friendly staff has the knowledge and experience to answer all of your ques-tions and concerns. Since the showroom is open 6 days a week, they are able to serve weekend DIY-ers. They pride themselves on answering all their customers’ ques-tions in order to provide the best choice for their project.

As the staff often conveys to new custom-ers on the phone, “We’re just down the street from The Coach House.” That’s a landmark with which most Orange County residents are familiar.

From moldings to hardwood lumber and custom windows to barnwood doors, Capistrano Hardwoods prides itself on its extensive inventory. They also have a huge variety of cabinet hardware, staircase and banister options. Save yourself the time of driving to a big box hardware store with elusive customer service, or traveling 45 minutes on the freeway to central Orange County. Simply stop by to speak with Ken, Zack, Izzy and the team for your next project, big or small.

Capistrano Hardwoods
26131 Avenida Aeropuerto # A
San Juan Capistrano
949.661.6244
CapistranoHardwoods.com

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