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

San Clemente Art Association Presents
“Paint San Clemente”

A Celebration of Art and Community

San Clemente, CA – The San Clemente Art Association is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated annual event, “Paint San Clemente,” set to take place from June 15 to June 23, 2024. This cherished tradition invites artists from across the nation to capture the unique beauty and vibrant spirit of San Clemente through their creative lenses.

Event Highlights:

Plein Air Painting Competition: From June 15 to June 22, artists will spread out across San Clemente, painting en plein air to create stunning pieces that reflect the town’s charm and character.

Quick Draw Competition: On June 15, 12:30 – 3:30 PM, artists will have just three hours to complete a painting within a specified area of San Clemente, showcasing their skills.

Gala and Art Show: The event culminates on June 22, 6:00 – 8:30 PM with a grand Gala and Art Show at the San Clemente Community Center, where the completed works will be displayed and available for purchase. Awards will be presented to the top artists, as judged by a panel of esteemed local and national art professionals.

Two-Day Art Sale: On June 22 and 23, the community is invited to a special art sale featuring works from local artists. This sale is a perfect opportunity to purchase original pieces and support the local art scene.

Location: Various iconic locations around San Clemente, culminating at the San Clemente Community Center, 100 N Calle Seville, San Clemente, CA 92672.

“Paint San Clemente” not only celebrates the incredible talent of participating artists but also fosters a sense of community and appreciation for the arts. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to watch artists at work, explore different artistic styles, and purchase original pieces that capture the essence of San Clemente.

About the San Clemente Art Association: Founded in 1953, the San Clemente Art Association is dedicated to promoting the arts within the community through exhibitions, classes, and events. The Association supports artists of all levels and encourages a deep appreciation for the visual arts in San Clemente and surrounding areas.

Contact Information: For more information about “Paint San Clemente” or the San Clemente Art Association, please visit www.paintsanclemente.com or contact:

San Clemente Art Association Phone: (949) 492-7175

Join us in celebrating the art and beauty of San Clemente. We look forward to seeing you there!

South County Restoration

Your First Call to Restoring Peace of Mind

by Victoria Kertz

If you discover mold on your walls or around your windows, pick up the phone and call South County Restoration in San Clemente. Owner Casey McCants has been flooded with calls due to the record rainfall this season. Homes with older roofs or poorly installed windows may show signs of water intrusion, which worsens as the weather gets hotter.

As a leading water restoration service provider in the area, South County Restoration is your first line of defense. They possess the necessary knowledge and expertise to detect, remediate, and repair water-related issues. Casey, with years of experience, also helps homeowners navigate the complexities of filing insurance claims. Managing the claim process properly is crucial for ensuring adequate coverage. Casey excels at guiding you through the process and securing fair compensation, saying, “You open the claim, we’ll do the rest.”

While most water mitigation services focus on only one aspect of the process, South County Restoration offers comprehensive solutions. From water mitigation to mold removal, leak stoppage, re-piping, and drywall repair, they are your one-stop-shop. Casey, being a general contractor and a qualified homeowner advocate, is well-equipped to address insurance claim matters on your behalf. His experience guarantees that you will be fairly compensated. He explains, “It’s such a confusing time for homeowners. We’re just here to help.”

Even if you decide not to file a claim, South County Restoration remains a valuable resource. Their renowned one-day repipe service minimizes disruption and inconvenience to your family. The team arrives promptly at 8:00 a.m. to complete tasks efficiently. Water mitigation typically takes two to three days to allow inner walls to dry before proceeding with abatement and mold removal. Additionally, the team is skilled in removing hazardous materials like asbestos from older buildings.

Following an exceptionally rainy winter, South County Restoration has primarily focused on mold remediation and prevention. Allowing mold to spread can pose significant health risks. Mold spores, when inhaled, can cause various health problems, particularly for individuals with respiratory issues or weakened immune systems.

Rain isn’t the sole cause of mold and water damage. Pinhole leaks, floods, or burst pipes can also lead to these issues in your home. Regardless of the source, South County Restoration is well-prepared to handle water extraction, drying, dehumidification, cleaning, sanitization, and drywall repair services. They employ state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to swiftly remove water and restore your property. With South County Restoration, you’re in capable hands.

South County Restoration offers a 24/7 Rapid Response Team with quick arrival times. They are ready to assist you with all your water mitigation needs. Before contacting your insurance company, call Casey at 949-536-8204. To learn more about their services, visit SouthCountyRestoration.com.

WONDERING IF WHAT YOU SEE IS MOLD?
Casey says mold can appear in one of these three ways:

1. DISCOLORATION:
Mold often appears as a discoloration on walls, ceilings, floors, and other surfaces. It can be black, green, gray, brown, white, or any combination of these colors.

2. MUSTY ODOR:
Mold has a distinct, musty smell that is often described as earthy or damp.

3. TEXTURED SPOTS:
Mold can have a fuzzy, slimy, or powdery texture. In warm weather, mold can also cause bubbling on walls if water is trapped inside.

CA Lic #932600

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

Irvine Greek Fest

44th Annual Irvine Greek Fest

A tradition since 1980, St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church will hold its 44th Annual Irvine Greek Fest on June 21, 22, and 23. The festivities will take place at St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church in Irvine. A family-fun event, the Irvine Greek Fest offers something for everyone. Much like a Greek street fair, the festival will offer amazing Greek food and pastries, an “Agora” (marketplace), boutique shops, kids’ play zone, live Greek music all weekend and Greek folk dance. Event attendees can also enter an opportunity drawing.

The Irvine Greek Fest will take place from 5 to 10 p.m. on Friday, 12 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and 12 to 9 p.m. on Sunday. All parking is free at Lake View Senior Center and shuttles transport attendees to the front gate of the festival.

“We’re delighted to invite everyone to be “Greek for a day,” with all of the food, music, dancing, and family fun our Festival has to offer!” 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 tastes of Greece while listening to the sounds of the bouzouki! You’ll feel like you’re in Greece!”

This year’s menu of traditional Greek food offers time-tested and perfected favorites including lamb, Greek French fries, Gyros, Pastichio (Greek lasagna), Loukaniko (Greek sausage), Spanakopita (spinach and feta cheese pie), Dolmathes (stuffed grape leaves) and more.

Greek beer and wine will be available in the Taverna bar.

All proceeds from the event benefiting St. Paul’s ministries and their charitable outreach. Festival admission is $3 per person with children under the age of 10 admitted free. Seniors 65+ are admitted free on Saturday from Noon to 5pm. Veterans, active service military and families, and first responders are always free. This year, all dads and grads are FREE on Sunday, June 23rd! Please visit www.IrvineGreekFest.com for more information.

St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church
4949 Alton Pkwy, Irvine
949.733.2366
IrvineGreekFest.com