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 69^th 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 69^th 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

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.

Do 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 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

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
949.492.7320 • www.olfschool.net

For over 50 years, Capistrano Unified School District and College and Career Advantage (CCA) have partnered to offer students a comprehensive Career Technical Education (CTE) program. The program has grown to include students from kindergarten through the adult education program, creating the ability for CTE experiences at all points of the educational journey in CUSD. In 2023, CUSD and CCA were honored with a California School Board Association (CSBA) Golden Bell Award for exemplary CTE curriculum and programs.

All 33 elementary schools offer “iCan” labs as an extension of the current middle and high school STEM career paths. Teachers deliver STEM themed core content lessons in math, science, social studies and English, infused with technology tools such as 3D printers, Cricut cutters, Marty the Robot and several additional tools.

CUSD is one of the only districts statewide to have these labs to help elementary students to be college and career ready.

Through CUSD’s joint partnership with College and Career Advantage, middle schoolers continue to explore Career Technical Education pathways. High school students deepen pathway skills and knowledge leading to college credit and industry certifications in 31 career pathways– Robotics, 3D Printing and Fabrication, Coding, Engineering, Biotechnology, Fire Science, Actors Repertory, Aviation, Automotive Technology, and more. CUSD places a strong emphasis on the integration of student well-being and emotional support, supportive and collaborative learning, and cultural diversity. School counselors and psychologists support social, emotional, behavior, and academics to ensure that every learner can be successful.

PUBLIC EDUCATION EXCELLENCE

• Academic, college and personal counselors on all campuses
• NAAM Best Communities for Music education designation for outstanding commitment to music education
• Championship caliber athletic programs

ELEMENTARY

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

SECONDARY

• College & Career Advantage Partnership
• High School Specialized Academies
• College@Capo: College credit courses taught by Saddleback College faculty on high school campuses
• College and Career Counselors at all High Schools
• International Baccalaureate Programs
• Advanced Placement Courses
• FIRST® Robotics: FTC and FRC Competition Teams

Capistrano Unified School District
33122 Valle Road | San Juan Capistrano
949.234.9200 • capousd.org

California Republic Leadership Academy Capistrano, a tuition-free charter school deeply rooted in the classical liberal arts tradition, is dedicated to shaping scholars who embody excellence in soul, mind, and body. The school’s unwavering commitment to this purpose sets it apart as truly exceptional.

CRLA Capistrano’s academic program consistently produces scholars with outstanding achievements, instilling a focus on character excellence and virtue. Grounded in the classical liberal arts tradition, the school’s curriculum, culture, and purpose yield remarkable results based on timeless principles.

Through Classical Education, the school guides students to appreciate truth, goodness and beauty. Historical facts are presented to provide a natural understanding of how morality has shaped the world. Teachers deliver unbiased instruction, fostering curiosity and sparking a love for learning.

Critical thinking naturally evolves as students reflect on learned concepts and make connections to their lives. Subjects like math, Latin, and grammar contribute to their analytical skills. In contrast to postmodern ideology, Classical Education rejects relative truth, emphasizing the objective pursuit of knowledge.

The primary goal of Classical Education is to cultivate virtue and wisdom in students, instilling a deep appreciation for truth, beauty, and goodness. Recognizing the intrinsic curiosity of children, the curriculum focuses on moral development, promoting critical thinking through content-rich lessons.

Classical Education upholds language, mathematics, and the teacher as central, emphasizing critical thinking through thoughtful questioning. The objective is not just to instruct students on what to think but to teach them how to think. The school believes in education for its intrinsic value, valuing truth, beauty, and goodness above mere vocational training.

To embark on the transformative journey of classical education for your child, contact California Republic Leadership Academy Capistrano today at 949.298.6040 or visit CRLAcapo.org for more information. Discover how our commitment to excellence can shape the future of your scholar.

California Republic Leadership Academy Capistrano
31711 San Juan Creek Road | San Juan Capistrano
949.298.6040 • www.CRLAcapo.org

Cefali & Cefali

Personal Injury Law

by Victoria Kertz

Power couple Michael and Courtney Cefali created their personal injury law firm, Cefali & Cefali, to be big enough to win and small enough to care. Since their founding in 2019, they have done just that and have doubled in size every year. If you’re looking for a local accident firm with many satisfied clients and five-star reviews, this husband-and-wife team is friendly, welcoming, and easy to communicate with. But don’t let their kindness fool you; they are one tough couple in the courtroom and have the record to prove it. If you’ve been injured in an accident, you don’t have to battle hours of traffic to find this up-and-coming firm; they’re right around the corner in San Juan Capistrano.

Michael and Courtney, who have known each other for 15 years and have been married for the past six, bring varied specialties to the practice. Michael worked with a larger firm before starting his own practice with Courtney, who also does appellate work in federal criminal defense. Years ago, they saw that one of the top complaints of clients at major firms was a general lack of communication. Those firms may have dozens of employees and multiple locations, but their clients, who are already suffering from injuries and high medical bills, find it challenging to talk to a partner or a lawyer of any kind at the firm. That’s why Cefali & Cefali committed to open lines of communication and hired a caring staff who are always ready to help. This customer service-based approach truly sets them apart in the personal injury world.

Clients appreciate the prompt replies but especially love their convenient office location in San Juan Capistrano. This proximity ultimately translates to better case outcomes. As Michael puts it, “You don’t want to travel far when you’re hurt,” and frankly, they don’t want a long commute either. In early 2024, the couple had their first child, Lucy, so working close to home is a must.

“We love San Juan,” says Courtney, who’s on the board of the local Boys & Girls Club. Michael, an avid boater, is a member of the Rotary Club, and they are both supporters of other local charities that give back to the community they hold dear.

At Cefali & Cefali, they understand that the financial aspect of hiring a lawyer can be a concern. That’s why there is no consultation fee, and all work is done on contingency. This means that if you don’t recover any money, you don’t have to pay them. “We have never had a client write us a check,” Courtney confirms. “You get top-quality representation without paying a thing out of pocket.” They’ve found that people can be hesitant to hire an attorney for fear that their case may not be strong enough for compensation or that they don’t want to hurt the other party involved in the accident. Courtney says that in most personal injury cases, individuals who are found liable don’t pay; the funds come from insurers. Those same settlement or verdict proceeds also pay Cefali & Cefali for their work, so neither you nor the other people involved in your accident are likely to lose money as a result.

Have you considered representing yourself in court or think you’ll earn more in proceeds without an attorney? Think again. Michael says that people who hire a lawyer to represent them in personal injury cases get about three times more in their pocket than someone who doesn’t. The team at Cefali & Cefali handles all communication with insurance companies, so you don’t have to. Now that’s a good neighbor to have!

If you’ve been injured in a car accident or hurt by someone else’s negligence, call Cefali & Cefali today at (877) 423-3254 to make an in-person or virtual appointment. There are no fees, and they’re happy to answer your questions and concerns about what you should do. Their years of experience and friendly staff will ease your anxiety and give you an action plan to help you get back on your feet. Visit them today at CallCefali.com.

Cefali & Cefali
27136 Paseo Espada, Suite 1123
San Juan Capistrano
877.423.3254
CallCefali.com

San Clemente Ocean Festival

July 20-21

The San Clemente Ocean Festival is returning to the San Clemente Pier on July 20th and 21st, with newly replenished sand on the beaches! Enjoy an action-packed weekend where lifeguards, junior lifeguards, swimmers, bodysurfers, multi-sport athletes, and young surfers compete for medallions and cash prizes. Don’t miss the National Doryman Association Races on Saturday, with two-person teams paddling 300-pound dory boats through the surf.

On Saturday, watch the Groms Rule® Surf Contest and the 12th Annual Dolphin Dash Kid’s Beach Run, featuring nearly 200 children, south of the pier. As evening falls, spread out your beach blanket and enjoy a barbeque dinner and a free concert featuring Creedence & Co.

Throughout both days, the Youth Pavilion will be full of games, crafts, and entertainment for families. Car enthusiasts can admire 15 different Woodie cars each day and explore an ocean and beach-themed art show in Parque del Mar.

Start each day with a pancake breakfast prepared by the San Clemente Lifeguards. Proceeds support the San Clemente Surf Lifesaving Association.

On Sunday, watch the continuation of the Groms Rule® Surf Contest, the NEW! Bodysurfing Invitational, and the Sand Sculpting competitions. Sponsor a duck in the Great Rubber Duck Race!

To avoid traffic and parking hassles, park for free at the Outlets at San Clemente and take the shuttle, or ride the train directly to the festival. For event registration, volunteering, and more information, visit www.OceanFestival.org.

ADMISSION IS FREE.
For more information about the different activities, a complete schedule of events, to register for competitions and contests, or to volunteer, please visit the website at oceanfestival.org.

Basil Brazil

by Dina Scaglione

If you’re craving Brazilian cuisine, a traditional steakhouse might come to mind. However, a visit to Basil Brazil will challenge your perceptions of the region’s exotic fare. While meat-centric dishes are certainly present, Basil Brazil offers a variety of flavorful specialties you won’t easily find elsewhere. This new spot in San Juan Capistrano, run by owners Rodrigo and his chef wife Jackie, presents a culinary adventure with authentic, healthy meals made from ingredients imported from Brazil. It’s a taste of Brazil right in the heart of south OC.

Start your meal with options like freshly made feijoada bites, or Bolinho de Feijoada, which feature smoked pork loin, bacon, and sausage, all rolled together in a black bean puree and deep-fried. You’ve likely never tasted anything quite like it. The Aipim com carne-seca (Aipim means yuca in Portuguese), shredded beef mixed with caramelized onions, parsley, aromatic spices, served alongside yuca fries is another standout starter.

For main entrees, try the Moqueca, a delicious mix of white fish, shrimp, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, served with white rice and farofa, a ground cassava root that adds a savory crunch. Another must-try is their unique take on Stroganoff, available with either beef or chicken in a decadent mushroom cream sauce, served with white rice and crispy potato sticks. Refresh your palate with light beverages like Guarana Antarctica, Cashew and Passion Fruit juices, or indulge in specialty drinks like the essential Caipirinha, made with white wine, lime juice, and sugar. Desserts include Pudim, a milk flan, or Manjar de coco, a coconut flan.

Basil Brazil is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., closing at 8 p.m. on Wednesdays and 6 p.m. on Sundays. Enjoy Happy Hour Wednesday through Friday from 2 to 5 p.m. For an enhanced dining experience, visit on Thursdays to enjoy live jazz music and complete your immersive Brazilian experience.

Basil Brazil
31878 Del Obispo St #120
San Juan Capistrano
949.678.4924
basilbrazilcuisine.com