Author Archives: the local dish

DermFx

DermFx

ERIN ALONSO, MSN, FNP

DermFx

Erin is committed to providing exceptional patient care, which is what led her to pursue a career in the aesthetic industry. While she is dedicated to helping her patients look their best, she understands that feeling one’s best is equally important. Erin’s approach to patient care is holistic and personalized; she takes the time to get to know each patient individually and approaches everything she does with a deep sense of care and passion.

In addition to her work in aesthetics, Erin is also a passionate philanthropist. She has a particular affinity for an orphanage in Mexicali and has dedicated herself to improving the lives of the children who live there. To support this cause, she founded The Forgotten Foundation, an organization that raises funds through events and the sale of items in her stores. Remarkably, 100% of the proceeds from these sales go directly to benefit the children at the orphanage.

DermFx, being one of the oldest and most comprehensive aesthetic clinics, is a great start for anyone looking to accent their beauty. Experience is the key to their continued success. As pioneers of the “medispa era,” they have treated close to a hundred thousand patients from all walks of life. DermFx houses over 25 state-of-the-art light and laser-based systems, the most extensive in California.

Awards:

  • One of Allergan’s top 25 accounts
  • Diamond Crystal Practice for CoolSculpting Elite — The highest level a practice can reach
  • Orange County Best Laser Hair Removal
  • 5-Stars on Yelp and Google

DermFx is overseen by Todd Miller, MD. Dr. Miller is an accomplished and highly trained head and neck surgeon who specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.

Featured Provider:
Erin Alonso is a Family Nurse Practitioner with 25 years of experience in aesthetic medicine and non-surgical laser treatments. Her passion is utilizing multiple modalities to help patients achieve their best look using fillers, neurotoxins, lasers, radio frequency, ultrasound, and more. She is revered as a expert in the aesthetics industry with a history of training the world’s top-tier doctors for Allergan, Galderma, Merz, Revance, Suneva, and more.

FREE Consultations for Your Beauty Needs
Complimentary consultations are always available at DermFx, and with operating hours 7 days a week, we can easily accommodate even the busiest of schedules. The staff is dedicated to exceeding your expectations and helping you achieve your best look. A key component of their approach is a commitment to education, ensuring a collaborative effort in fulfilling your beauty needs. Schedule your free consultation today!

DermFx
134184 Pacific Coast Hwy
Dana Point
949.487.5180
DermFX.com

DermFx

Advanced Dermatology

Advanced Dermatology

GENERAL • COSMETIC • SURGICAL

Advanced Dermatology

Where do doctors and their families in South Orange County go when they need dermatological and cosmetic care?

They choose Advanced Dermatology in Dana Point (the one and only location). Why?

Experience
The doctors are board-certified dermatologists who have been delivering care to South Orange County residents for over 15 years. With a combined 55+ years of clinical experience in dermatology and cosmetic care, the doctors have set a standard for exceptional service and their practice has been regarded as the premier dermatology center in the area.

Team-Based Management
The team of dermatologists believes in a collaborative approach to your care. They draw from each other’s expertise to diagnose difficult cases, craft custom treatment plans, and provide the highest level of care as a team.

Comprehensive Care
The office provides expert dermatologic care in all aspects of skin, hair, and nail treatments for patients of all ages.

Cutting Edge Technologies
Advanced Dermatology incorporates the latest advancements and breakthroughs in medical, surgical, and aesthetic/cosmetics in its daily practice. The office has the most state-of-the-art and cutting-edge methods to provide personalized treatment options for skin cancers and the most dramatic cosmetic and body sculpting results with the least risk and little downtime. Superficial Radiation Therapy (SRT), CoolSculpting,® Emsculpt Neo,® thread lifts, Mohs surgery — your dermatologists at Advanced Dermatology are experts in wielding these technological wonders.

Friendly Staff & Convenient Location
You will find the staff to be friendly, compassionate, and helpful. Everyone believes in the mission: delivering exceptional medical and cosmetic dermatologic care in a caring and compassionate manner. The spacious office is located on Pacific Coast Highway and provides easy access and ample parking. Friendly receptionists answer phone calls and provide 24-hour emergency access to your dermatologist.

Call Advanced Dermatology for all your dermatology needs!

Advanced Dermatology
34213 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Dana Point
949-248-4547
DermSC.com

Advanced Dermatology

Inka Mama’s

Inka Mama's

Inka Mama’s

Spice, Soul, and Sizzle

by Dina Scaglione

If you’re craving something bold and exciting beyond the usual dining options, look no further than Inka Mama’s in Old Towne Plaza San Clemente. This vibrant Peruvian restaurant offers a warm, welcoming ambiance and a dynamic menu featuring a fusion of flavors that perfectly balances bold spices, fresh ingredients, and authentic recipes. It’s a spot that combines the comfort of familiar dishes with the excitement of trying something a little different.

Start your meal with one of their standout appetizers, such as the ceviche. Forget any preconceptions you have about this dish—Inka Mama’s version is light, zesty, and surprisingly unique. Made with tender white fish marinated in lime juice, ginger, and cilantro, it’s topped with red onions and the unexpected crunch of fried corn nuts. If you’re craving something heartier, the Chicharron de Pollo is a must. This crispy chicken, marinated in garlic and spices, is served with pickled red onions, adding a tangy and smoky depth to every bite. Empanada lovers will also be delighted by the delicate pastry shells, fried to perfection and stuffed with your choice of shrimp, steak, chicken, or spinach, all served with a bright lime dipping sauce that adds a citrusy punch.

For the main course, the Saltado Vainitas is a classic, featuring your choice of protein mixed with sautéed green beans, broccoli, onions, and tomatoes, seasoned with fragrant herbs and served over fluffy white rice. The Paella is another popular option, featuring cilantro-infused rice mixed with garlic, peas, carrots, and peppers—each bite a celebration of rich, aromatic flavors. For a more comforting dish, try Inka Mama’s Scampi, which pairs succulent seafood with a creamy garlic sauce and tender pasta. And if you’re in the mood for something hearty, the Parihuela, a Peruvian seafood stew, is a flavorful, brothy delight. Packed with white fish, mussels, shrimp, and calamari, it’s simmered in a rich broth of onions, cilantro, potatoes, and Inca wine—a meal that’s both filling and satisfying.

With five locations across Southern California, Inka Mama’s San Clemente offers a specialized menu and handcrafted cocktails. For a truly flavorful journey through the soul of Peruvian cuisine, make your next dining experience at Inka Mama’s unforgettable.

 

Inka Mama’s
111 West Avenida Palizada, #303
San Clemente
InkaMamas.com

Sendero Dental Studio

Sendero Dental Studio

Sendero Dental Studio

Dentistry with a Side of Fun!

by Victoria Kertz

Sendero Dental Studio is celebrating a milestone year with a major expansion in the Sendero Marketplace shopping center. Fresh off a massive expansion that doubled their footprint, the modern, airy new interiors provide a peaceful environment for the whole family. “We’re thrilled to have more room and more chairs to serve our patients,” owner Dr. Jeffrey Barrera shares. “The expansion allows us to accommodate more patients and provide an even higher level of care.”

One of only a few dentists in the fast-growing Rancho Mission Viejo community, Sendero (which means “trail” or “path” in English), is conveniently located at the corner of Antonio and Ortega Parkways. Close to Gelson’s, the location makes it easy to run errands after a quick cleaning or check-up. And since Dr. Barrera sees patients of all ages, there’s no need to find a pediatric dentist for your little ones. The staff is warm, friendly, and as noted in multiple Yelp reviews, known to remember patients’ names — even when they only see them twice a year! It’s the kind of personalized service that Dr. Barrera loves and is just one reason his practice has become so popular.

“More than anything, we are thankful for the loyalty and support of our patients,” Dr. Barrera says. “They are the reason we come to work every day; their trust in us is something we will never take for granted.”

The growth of Sendero Dental isn’t just about numbers— it’s about enhancing the patient experience. With additional space and staff, the practice now offers more flexible scheduling options and reduced wait times.

Dr. Barrera’s commitment to his practice goes beyond excellent dental care—he genuinely values those who have entrusted their oral health to him and his team. This patient-first approach is evident in every aspect of the practice. From the friendly front desk staff to the skilled dental hygienists and assistants, every team member at Sendero is dedicated to ensuring a positive experience.

Patients also benefit from the expertise of Dr. Tyler Kisling, a valued team member who recently welcomed his first child. “Dr. Kisling is a great asset! I feel blessed to have him on our team,” Dr. Barrera enthuses.

Outside the office, Sendero is an integral part of the Rancho Mission Viejo community, actively participating in local events, supporting schools, and contributing to local organizations. ”We’re not just here to provide dental care,” he explains. “We’re here to be an uplifting force in our community. We’re always looking for ways to contribute.”

This approach to community wellness has not gone unnoticed. People of all ages, from young children to seniors, rely on Sendero Dental Studio not just for their dental needs, but as a trusted resource for overall physical health. As the old saying goes, a good dentist makes for a gleaming smile; a great dentist ensures a healthy life.

As they look to the future, Dr. Barrera and his team are more excited than ever about the possibilities that lie ahead. “We see that we’re making a difference!” Dr. Barrera says, and hints that he may have some announcements about exciting new services later this year. In the meantime, every smile they improve, every patient they educate about oral health, and every community event they support is a step towards a healthier, happier south Orange County.

For top-quality dental care in a welcoming, community-oriented environment, Sendero Dental Studio is ready to serve. Whether you’re due for a routine check-up, need a cleaning, or considering cosmetic dentistry, call them today at 949-371-8533 or visit SenderoDental.com to learn more.

 

Sendero Dental Studio
30901 Gateway Place, Suites F5
Rancho Mission Viejo
949.371.8533
SenderoDental.com

Toast to the Casa Renaissance

Toast to the Casa Renaissance

Toast to the Casa Renaissance

SEPTEMBER 21 | 5 TO 10PM

Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens is delighted to announce the return of its 22nd annual fundraising gala, Toast to the Casa, on Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 5 to 10 p.m. This year’s theme, “Renaissance,” promises a magical evening filled with medieval-inspired festivities. Guests will be transported to a bygone era, complete with a knight in shining armor, awe-inspiring aerialist performances, and even a mythical dragon encounter. For those seeking adventure, the event offers axethrowing activities, and there will be plenty of Instagram-worthy moments, including a popular 360 camera.

The evening will feature a feast of delicious offerings from over 15 local eateries, including Casa Romantica’s exclusive caterers: Colette’s Catering, 24 Carrots, and Carbonara Catering. Guests can indulge in snacksized bites and desserts like Chunk N’ Chip ice cream sandwiches. Specialty cocktails will also be available, courtesy of the event’s exclusive spirit providers, Nolet’s Gin and Ketel One Vodka and Botanicals.

“Toast to the Casa is a beloved event that holds a special place in our hearts,” adds Jacqui Groseth, Executive Director of Resource Development and Administration. “We invite everyone to join us for an evening of spectacular entertainment, delicious cuisine, and an opportunity to support our vital cultural and educational programs.”

The annual fundraising event provides major support for all of the cultural and educational programs throughout the season, raising essential funds to preserve, rebuild and maintain this historic venue for future generations to enjoy. Welcoming 40,000 visitors a year, Casa Romantica is truly a community treasure in San Clemente. Tickets are $225 per person, with sponsorships starting at $1,000. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary evening of entertainment, community, and philanthropy. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Go.CasaRomantica.org/Toast.

 

Casa Romantica
Cultural Center and Gardens
415 Avenida Granada
San Clemente

Capstone Montessori School

Capstone Montessori School
FOUNDATIONS FOR A LIFETIME OF LEARNING

Capstone Montessori School

This summer, Capstone Montessori School opens its doors in San Clemente, welcoming children from 6 weeks to 5 years of age. This new institution is dedicated to nurturing the earliest stages of development through the Montessori method, which emphasizes personalized, hands-on learning experiences that foster independence, creativity, and a love for learning.

The state-of-the-art facilities at Capstone Montessori are meticulously designed to inspire and engage young minds, providing a supportive environment where infants, toddlers, and preschoolers feel encouraged to explore and grow. Classrooms are specifically tailored to meet the developmental needs of each age group, facilitating an atmosphere where curiosity flourishes and foundational skills are fostered.

Each child at Capstone Montessori is viewed as a unique individual with immense potential. The school’s educators, who are experts in the Montessori philosophy, guide the students through tailored educational journeys. From a very young age, children develop essential life skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking, which are vital for their future academic and personal success.

Capstone Montessori is more than just a school—it’s a community. The commitment to building strong relationships among students, parents, and staff creates a warm, family-like atmosphere that extends well beyond the classroom. Through regular updates and inclusive events, the school ensures that families remain deeply connected to their children’s educational progress.

As Capstone Montessori School opens its doors for the first time, it invites local families to be part of a pioneering educational experience. Enroll your child at Capstone Montessori and join a community where the youngest learners are nurtured, curiosity is celebrated, and the journey of lifelong learning begins.

Capstone Montessori School
2021 Calle Fontera | San Clemente
949.503.1199capstonemontessorischool.com

Capstone Montessori School

The 69th Fiesta Music Festival

The 69th Fiesta Music Festival

The 69th Fiesta Music Festival to be Held on Sunday, August 11th

Three Stages of Live Music • Food & Beverages • Business Expos and More!

The San Clemente Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce that the 69th Fiesta Music Festival will take place on Sunday, August 11, 2024, from 10am-7pm on the 100 and 200 blocks of Avenida Del Mar.

The Fiesta is a city-partnered summer celebration for the entire family– an all-day festival for residents and visitors to enjoy. Through their participation, local nonprofit organizations earn funds that finance local youth scholarships, community events and giving initiatives.

With downtown closed to traffic, Avenida Del Mar will be filled with live music from three stages throughout the day. In addition to popular performers on the upper and lower stages, this year’s main stage headliners include: Long Beach Dub All Stars, Buck-O-Nine, Tijuana Panthers, 3LH, Ted Z and the Wranglers, Wes Chiller and Grooveswitch.

Patrons will enjoy delicious food booths, arts and crafts vendors, marketing booths, games and exhibits. Dozens of downtown shops and restaurants will also be open for business. Additionally, the kids’ zone will run from 10am-5pm in the parking lot, adjacent to the library.

To support easy event access, two main bike corrals will be available– one in front of the Community Center at Avenida Del Mar, and the other in the alleyway next to Artifex, behind South of Nick’s. Enter the opportunity drawing for a chance to win an e-bike and bike accessories from EPIC Power Bikes.

A free shuttle service will run from 10am-7pm from San Clemente High School, located at 700 Avenida Pico. The city’s trolley will also run from 10am-8pm, with pickup at the Outlets at San Clemente, in front of Starbucks. A modified downtown trolley schedule will begin running on Saturday evening starting at 6pm through Sunday at 8pm, with stops throughout the downtown area. For those coming from out of town via train, take Metrolink’s Orange County and IEOC lines to the San Clemente Pier Station.

The San Clemente Chamber of Commerce would like to thank our generous 2024 Presenting Sponsors: The City of San Clemente, Left Coast Brewing Company, Sunwest Bank, CR&R Environmental Services, Rod’s Tree Service and South Coast Water District.

2024 Contributing Sponsors include: Casablanca Inn, COA Entertainment, ECS Payments, EPIC Power Bikes, GarageRock! Records, MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center, Ocean Estate Law, OCTA/Metrolink, Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley, Power Plant Records, Rareview Creative Agency, Rainbow Sandals, Raya’s Paradise San Clemente, ROOS STUDIOS, San Clemente Times, San Clemente Journal, SDG&E, San Clemente Villas by the Sea and  SoCal Sound.

“We appreciate San Clemente’s support and look forward to seeing you at the 69th Fiesta,” said Chamber of Commerce Director of Operations Arlen Flores.

The Fiesta Music Festival is free to attend. Enhanced safety checks will be implemented. Bags, strollers, etc. will be subject to search and no outside alcohol or weapons of any kinds will be permitted. Non-consent will result in denial of entry. Also, styrofoam and non-support animals are not permitted, per the city’s event ordinance.

Contact the chamber office for more details at info@scchamber.com or visit our Fiesta event page at scchamber.com

 

About San Clemente Chamber of Commerce
The San Clemente Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization of business and professional men and women who have joined together for the purpose of promoting the general welfare and prosperity of the local business community. The Chamber’s mission is to protect the free enterprise system, champion business and strive for a healthy economy and a better quality of life in our community.

Fairmont Schools

Fairmont Schools

The Solution For Middle School Athletes

Legendary football coach Vince Lombardi once said, “Practice doesn’t make perfect. Perfect practice makes perfect.” Lombardi’s words will resonate with parents whose student-athletes aspire to play at the highest levels because they understand that elite athletes require elite training. “Perfect” practice does not take place in a vacuum—it requires pairing committed athletes and highly skilled coaches to bring its promises to fruition.

For this reason, Fairmont Schools launched Fairmont Athletic Academy (FAA) in 2020. “We recognized that there was a real need for an athletics program that could take a club or travel team athlete and turn them into a regional or national player,” says Program Director Phil Lopez. “But we didn’t want the exceptional nature of our program to stop with athletics. We wanted to bring it into the classroom as well. Fairmont is renowned for its academics. We didn’t want parents to have to choose between exemplary training and exemplary academics. With our program, they get the best of both worlds.”

Fairmont Athletic Academy is offered to middle school student-athletes at Fairmont Schools’ San Juan Capistrano campus. Academy students benefit from spending part of their school day improving their sports performance and skills while reaping the rewards of Fairmont’s award-winning curriculum and teachers.

Recognizing the unique needs of elite athletes, Fairmont offers a schedule that dedicates 85 minutes 5 days per week for strength & conditioning and speed & agility training, and 85 minutes 3 days per week for sport-specific training with their coach.

Gustav Gratzer of the Strikers FC soccer club explains, “A club coach gets an hour and a half twice a week to work with their whole team, of which only so much time can be dedicated to individual skills. Here, I have an athlete 85 minutes three times a week for the whole year to build those individual skills.”

“Fairmont has a history of innovating,” says Rebecca Lugo, Head of School at Fairmont San Juan Capistrano. “When we see an opportunity to address the needs of our families, we seize it. Our leadership heard from many parents about their student-athletes’ challenges – returning home late after practices, starting homework at 9:00 pm, and missing out on important things like family time and sleep. Fairmont responded by developing Fairmont Athletic Academy to address these concerns.”

Working with sport-specific coaches and experienced trainers, each student follows a customized training regimen that leverages technologies like VALD SmartSpeed, JumpMat, and ForceDeck, along with GymAware and dynamometers to track speed and strength metrics. Additional tools are used to provide data-driven testing for resting metabolic rate and VO2 max.

A premier program attracts premier talent. FAA’s coaches and trainers represent some of the top programs in Orange County and beyond, such as Tstreet Volleyball Club, Strikers FC, Tribe Baseball, OC Elite Football, and iTennis. It also attracts some of the county’s top student-athletes who aim to excel not only on the fields, courts, and ice but also in the classroom. Although the San Juan Capistrano campus is just four years old, it capitalizes on Fairmont Schools’ 70- year history of proven academic results. Fairmont SJC has already earned an A+ rating from Niche.

qr codeDo you have a middle schooler who is looking to get to the next level of play? Learn how they can benefit from Fairmont Athletic Academy’s unique and personalized approach to growing elite student-athletes at their upcoming Evaluation/Combine Day – Wednesday, August 7th at 12:45 (grades 5-6) and 2:15 (grades 7-8w). Scan the QR code to RSVP. For additional information about the program or to schedule a tour, contact Betty Petersen at bpetersen@fairmontschools.com or 714-234-2784. Fairmont San Juan Capistrano offers rolling admission.

 

Fairmont Schools
San Juan Capistrano • Anaheim • Anaheim Hills • North Tustin
714.234.2771
FairmontSchools.com

St. Anne School

St. Anne School
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT. SPIRITUAL FORMATION. CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT.

St. Anne School

St. Anne School in Laguna Niguel is an independent Catholic school where children are inspired to pursue the highest level of academic achievement, spiritual formation, and character development in a supportive environment. The dedicated teachers, administrators, and parents ensure that students are rooted in their community, strengthened by their faith, and motivated each day by the possibilities of their future.

St. Anne students benefit from differentiated instruction, opportunities for collaboration, and strategies that stimulate critical thinking. Based on research and best practices, the classes maximize engagement and growth. The Student Support team ensures that all students can access the curriculum and enrichment opportunities that challenge them. Recognizing that learning is not limited to the classroom, St. Anne School incorporates experiential opportunities into our programming. From the preschool mud kitchen to upper school field study trips to Astrocamp, Pali Institute Science Camp, Catalina, and Washington, D.C., students have access to activities that build real-world knowledge.

St. Anne School is committed to developing students’ academic skills, as well as their character and unique talents. Art, music, engineering design, speech, orchestra, rock band, and creative writing classes provide students with opportunities to explore their interests and reflect the School’s dedication to educating–and celebrating–the whole child.

Guided by the teachings of the Catholic Church, the vibrant Campus Ministry program encourages spiritual growth through participation in service projects, retreats, and weekly Mass. Additionally, extra-curricular programs such as musical theater, after-school classes, and various team sports allow students to grow and have fun.

In an environment rooted in community and strengthened by faith, St. Anne School graduates well-rounded, compassionate, creative students of character who are well-equipped for the challenges of high school, college, and beyond.

To schedule a private tour or learn more about St. Anne School, please contact the Office of Admissions at 949-276-6700.

St. Anne School
32451 Bear Brand Road | Laguna Niguel
www.st-anne.org

St. Anne School

Our Lady of Fatima Academy

Our Lady of Fatima Academy

Our Lady of
Fatima Academy

EDUCATING SAN CLEMENTE AND THE SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES SINCE 1965

Our Lady of Fatima AcademyOur Lady of Fatima Academy

Our Lady of Fatima Academy is a TK-8th grade Catholic 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.

Accepting applications now for grades TK-8th grade! Please call for a tour today!

Our Lady of Fatima Academy
105 N. La Esperanza | San Clemente
949.492.7320www.olfschool.net

Our Lady of Fatima Academy