At Our Lady of Fatima Academy, students are nurtured in a welcoming, faith-centered community where every child is known, valued and supported. Through small class sizes and dedicated teachers, students are encouraged to grow academically, spiri-tually and socially. Grounded in Catholic values, they develop confi-dence, strong character and a genuine love of learning. The academy empowers students to lead with integrity, serve others and move for-ward prepared for the future.

Located in San Clemente, Our Lady of Fatima Academy proudly serves families from Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, Talega, Mission Viejo, Ladera Ranch and surrounding communities. The safe, secure campus features an on-site Sheriff’s substation, providing families with added peace of mind. While rooted in Catholic tradition, the academy welcomes students and families of all faiths and backgrounds. Through a culture of respect, service and shared values, students grow into compassionate, responsible individuals who are well prepared for success in high school and beyond.

THE ONLY TK – 8TH GRADE CATHOLIC SCHOOL IN SAN CLEMENTE. NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS!

13:1 Average Class Size. Catholic affiliation not required for admission. All are welcome to enroll.

Our Lady of Fatima Academy
105 N. La Esperanza | San Clemente
949.492.7320 • OLFschool.net

Located less than two miles from the Pacific Ocean, St. Anne Catholic School is an independent Catholic school in Laguna Niguel, where dedicated teachers, administrators, and par-ents ensure that students are inspired to pursue their highest level of academic achievement, spiritual formation, and character development.

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 Catholic School incorporates experiential learning opportunities into its programming.

From the preschool mud kitchen to middle school field study trips to Astrocamp, Pali Institute, Catalina Island, and Washington, D.C., students have access to activities that build real-world knowledge.

St. Anne Catholic School is committed to developing students’ academic skills, character, and unique talents. Art, vocal music, technology, orchestra, Spanish, and rock band 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 Masses.

Additionally, extracurricular programs such as musical theater, after-school classes, and various team sports allow students to grow, connect, and have fun.

St. Anne Catholic School graduates well-rounded, creative, and compassionate students of character who are well-equipped for the challenges of high school, college, and beyond.

To schedule a private tour, please contact the Office of Admissions at 949.276.6700.

St. Anne Catholic School
32451 Bear Brand Road | Laguna Niguel
949.276.6700 • St-Anne.org

A preschool through 8th grade educational experience within the Diocese of Orange. Our mission is to help our students grow spiritually, intellectually, socially and emotionally within a Christ-centered environment.

A DYNAMIC SCHOOLWIDE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

CHARACTER
Dedicated to preparing students to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. We strive to develop resilient and confident students.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Consistent with Diocesan curriculum guidelines and Common Core Standards, we educate the whole child, forming their spiritual, intellectual, personal and social capacities through academic, religious service, and co-curricular programs.

FAITH DEVELOPMENT
Through a variety of opportunities, our students are being prepared to meet the spiritual and moral challenges of the future. Their Catholic values develop and strengthen through daily prayer, service projects, and consistent practice of compassion, respect, and responsibility.

COMMUNITY
Faith and academics are at the core of the school; community is our heart. St. Edward builds a culture of family, where students, parents, and staff support one another.

CREATIVITY
Through Art, Music, and Makerspace classes, our students develop and explore their talents and imagination.

Schedule A Tour Today!

St. Edward The Confessor Parish School
33866 Calle La Primavera | Dana Point
949.496.1307 • StEdward.com

Sea Country Festival

Three Days of Family Fun

Summer may be winding down, but one of Laguna Niguel’s favorite traditions is just getting started. The City of Laguna Niguel’s Parks and Recreation Department invites the community to celebrate the season at the Sea Country Festival, returning Friday, Aug. 21 through Sunday, Aug. 23.

This year’s festival moves to a new location along Aliso Creek Road between Alicia Parkway and Dorine in Laguna Niguel (near Laguna Design Center), creating an exciting new backdrop for one of the city’s most anticipated annual events. Designed for all ages, the three-day festival brings together the best of summer with exciting attractions, live entertainment and plenty of opportunities to enjoy time with family and friends.

Guests can experience thrilling carnival rides, test their luck at classic midway games and indulge in a variety of fair favorites from local food vendors. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, a sweet treat or simply a fun evening out, the festival offers something for everyone. Live music throughout the weekend adds to the festive atmosphere, making it easy to spend the day, or the entire weekend, enjoying everything the event has to offer.

Best of all, admission is free, making the festival an affordable way to wrap up summer. While there is no cost to enter, nominal fees apply for rides, games and food vendors, allowing guests to customize their experience.

Festival hours are 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21, 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22, and 2 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23, giving visitors plenty of time to explore, play and make lasting memories.

Whether you’re bringing the kids for their favorite rides, meeting friends for an evening of live entertainment or simply enjoying the vibrant energy of the festival, the Sea Country Festival is the perfect way to celebrate the final days of summer while connecting with the community.

Mark your calendar and don’t miss this exciting Laguna Niguel tradition. For festival details, entertainment updates and more information, visit CityOfLagunaNiguel.org/festival.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 21 – SUNDAY, AUGUST 23

October 2026 Calendar of Events and Local Happenings for South Orange County
Featuring the cities of Aliso Viejo, Capo Beach, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and surrounding areas! The Local Dish Magazine’s two-page calendar is the centerfold of our monthly magazine. Many of our magazine readers pull the calendar out of the magazine itself and post it to their refrigerators at home! Web users can simply “mouse over” the image below to enlarge their choice of calendar square/date. Also, make sure to scroll to the bottom area of this page where you can click around until you find an event that you may be interested in. Remember, if you or your business has a “local” event that you think is post worthy, please forward it to our webmaster.

 Mouse over image to MAGNIFY

White Rose at San Clemente

Family Owned Funeral Home Offering End of Life Services

Meet our Team

White Rose at San Clemente is a proud part of the community in Southern Orange County. It offers traditional funeral services, including burials, cremation and eco-water cremation to the community. Their staff brings over 30 years of combined experience to the area. They are proud to serve and offer any expertise to grieving families in need of answers.

Our General Manager Heather Perez is a licensed Funeral Arrangement Counselor with several years in the funeral industry. She has served hundreds of families with care and compassion. Her goal is to make sure every family feels heard and seen and make sure everyone understands the process in caring for their loved one, no matter what the arrangements may be.

Kahla Flores is our Executive Director. She is a Bio-Response certified Alkaline Hydrolysis technician and holds many certifications in the death care industry. She has an abundance of knowledge in aqua cremation and in natural burial final disposition practices. Her passion is to educate and present to families an alternative option for those seeking a more “green” or gentle approach to final disposition.

Our founder David Perfito is a licensed Crematory Manager and is committed to serving our families with respect and honor towards the loved ones who have passed. He has been a part of the Southern California business community since 1994. With an entrepreneurial spirit, an operations design and management expertise, and a customer service commitment to satisfaction, David was instrumental in founding and developing California’s first Alkaline Hydrolysis facility for human final disposition.

White Rose at San Clemente
616 S El Camino Real, Ste. G9
San Clemente
949.470.2550
heather@whiteroseaqua.com

Blanca’s

Latin Kitchen + Bar

by Dina Scaglione

Here in South Orange County, there is no shortage of restaurants special-izing in south-of-the-border fare. However, few offer delicious home-style cuisine, crafted cocktails, generous portions and friendly service — all served in a comfortable yet lively atmosphere.

In downtown San Juan Capistrano, you can find it all at Blanca’s. It’s the kind of place that pulls off something rare: authentic Latin cuisine that isn’t over the top, paired with warm natural lighting, sophisticated charm and an inviting energy that makes you want to linger, whether at the bar, in the dining room or on the enclosed patio. The menu is refreshingly ex-pansive, offering everything from classic tacos and burritos to dishes for more adventurous palates. Portions are generous, flavors are bold and it’s clear owner Rick, whose family has been in the restaurant business for 40 years, takes pride in getting all the important details right.

To kick off your culinary experience, Blanca’s offers a large assortment of appetizers, including shredded chicken flautas rolled in a flour tortilla and served with sour cream, pico de gallo and chipotle cream. You also can’t go wrong with the BBQ carnitas sliders, tossed in tangy BBQ sauce, topped with coleslaw and served on toasted Hawaiian bread. The Shrimp Costa Azul pairs shrimp and cheese wrapped in bacon and served with chipotle cream — decadent and delicious.

For entrées, the Chile Verde features tender chunks of pork sautéed in to-matillo sauce with onions and bell peppers, accompanied by rice, beans and your choice of flour or corn tortillas. The fajitas are another stand-out, with your choice of chicken, steak, shrimp, vegetarian or a combina-tion, served on a sizzling skillet with onions and peppers, along with rice, beans, guacamole, sour cream and pico de gallo.

Another highlight at Blanca’s is its award-winning margaritas, featuring creative twists on the classic cocktail. The Charred Spicy Pineapple Mar-garita blends Casamigos tequila with jalapeño, fresh charred, pineapple, lime juice and agave, finished with a Tajín rim. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and spicy — and worthy of its reputation.

Happy hour is offered from 2 to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely din-ner with friends, Blanca’s delivers the kind of unpretentious, satisfy-ing experience that keeps locals coming back.

Blanca’s
Latin Kitchen + Bar
26762 Verdugo St.,
San Juan Capistrano
363.207.0654
BlancasLatinKitchen.com

Honoring A Legacy

Understanding Veterans Benefits for End of Life Services

The Military and Veterans in our country are the foundation that built this great nation. As we celebrate the 250th year of the United States of America, it gives us time to reflect on those who have served and come before us. Honoring our Veterans’ commitment to the safety and advancement of this country is one way we can say thank you for a life of sacrifice and dedication.

There are a range of Veterans benefits available to honorably discharged service members. White Rose at San Clementeis dedicated to educating the community and helping families understand the benefits available to them. Our team members are knowledgeable and take pride in making sure our neighbors are well informed so they can make the best decision for their loved one’s care.

In honor of the 250th celebration taking place this year, White Rose at San Clemente is excited to offer a $250 discounton our services for any Veterans or family members of Veterans, as well as exclusively to residents of the City of San Clemente. We hope to ease the burden of losing a loved one. Please mention this ad during your arrangement meeting with one of our counselors.

For more information or to speak with Heather, David, or Kahla, please see the contact information below.

White Rose at San Clemente
616 S. El Camino Real, Ste. G9
San Clemente, CA
949-470-2550
heather@whiteroseaqua.com
whiteroseaquacremation.com

Paloma Medical Group

Physician-Owned Healthcare in South Orange County

by Victoria Kertz

HEALTHCARE, REIMAGINED
Paloma Medical Group believes that health-care is deeply personal, so the care you receive should be too. When it comes to your health, you shouldn’t have to choose between the cutting-edge capabilities of a massive medical network and the warmth of a local family doctor. Fortunately for South Orange County residents, Paloma Medical Group bridges that gap perfectly. As a premier, physician-owned multi-specialty practice dedicated to adult care, Paloma offers a refreshing alternative to today’s corporate healthcare landscape.

GROWING TO SERVE YOU
For over 25 years, Paloma Medical Group has been a trusted name in the community, serving patients from its offices in San Juan Capistrano and Laguna Hills. Now, they are expanding their footprint to serve you even better. Paloma has opened a third location directly adjacent to a major hospital system in Laguna Hills. If you or a loved one is ever hospitalized, the transition from hospital to home can be stressful and fragmented. This new location ensures continuity of care and seamless communication between you, the hospital, and your doctors. And since Paloma doctors maintain active privi-leges to treat patients at all local hospitals and rehabilitation centers, the same physicians who know your medical history can manage your care during a hospital stay and follow up with you back at the clinic. Paloma also eliminates the headache of driving across town for basic medical needs. All Paloma facilities offer on-site blood draws and laboratory services. You can see your doctor, get your blood drawn, and have your results processed and read, all in the same building.

CARE COMES FIRST
What truly sets Paloma Medical Group apart is its mission. At a time when large healthcare systems are increasingly driven by corporate bottom lines and rigid productivity quotas, Paloma stands firm as a physician-owned practice dedicated to quality of care. Paloma Executive Director Laura Olson says that an increasing number of top-tier doctors are leav-ing major corporate health networks to join the Paloma team, ready to focus on the time and quality of care they can offer each patient. When you visit Paloma, you get the robust expertise and resources of a large healthcare system, balanced with the attentive, high-touch personalization of a boutique practice.

A TEAM YOU CAN TRUST
Whether you are a longtime resident or new to the area and searching for a primary care physician, Paloma has a diverse team of compassionate, highly experienced doctors ready to welcome you. Many people see specialists, but when asked if they have a primary care doctor, the answer is often no. Paloma Medical Group wants to change that, offering several primary care physicians ready to serve you.

SPECIALIZED CARE, PERSONALIZED
With a comprehensive multi-specialty framework, Paloma provides expert care in the specific areas that matter most to your long-term health and daily well-being, including pulmonary medicine (the branch of healthcare that specializes in your lungs and breathing). For those struggling with sleep or snoring issues, their sleep medicine team can help iden-tify and treat the underlying causes. They also offer hospital medicine, clinical der-matology, and acupuncture, and for pa-tients seeking an even higher level of in-dividualized attention, Paloma offers an exclusive Concierge Medicine program. This service provides highly personalized care, including a 24/7 direct line to your personal physician and same-day ap-pointments, ensuring peace of mind is always just a phone call away.

LOOKING AHEAD
Paloma Medical Group is always look-ing toward the future of local healthcare. They are continuously evolving to meet the growing needs of South Orange County, and are thrilled to announce that starting in July 2026, Paloma will offer Ophthalmology services, bring-ing world-class eye care under the very same umbrella of care. It’s just one more reason to visit PalomaMedGroup.com today to view their many services, or call for an appointment at 949-443-4303.

Paloma Medical Group
NEW LOCATION — NOW OPEN!
24411 Health Center Dr., Ste. 460
Laguna Hills
949-443-4303
Conveniently located next to Saddleback Hospital

30230 Rancho Viejo Rd, Suite 200
San Juan Capistrano

23141 Moulton Pkwy, Suite 108
Laguna Hills

PalomaMedGroup.com

2026 Summer Camps

ACTING ACADEMY FOR KIDS & TEENS
Acting Academy for Kids’ Performing Arts Camp offers three OC locations, including Z Playhouse in Mission Viejo, Lyceum Village in Irvine/Tustin and a new Newport Beach site at the Newport Theatre Arts Center. Daily classes in music, acting and dance immerse kids ages 5–14 in a true performing arts experience. Each week-long camp, led by professional educators, ends in a student production with sets, costumes and lighting. Ten sessions run June 8 to August 14. Core camp rate is $425 per week, with discounts available. ActingAcademyForKids.com

CREATE A MAKER
Powered by Brain Builders
Does your child always want to take the lead on building? At Create A Maker, we let them take the driver’s seat! Students will get to build hands-on projects using LEGO bricks and use technology such as 3D printers and laser cutters. Get ready for an exciting summer starting the week of June 8 at Create a Maker, Laguna Niguel. Live in central and North OC? Check out our Brain Builders center in Tustin! Find more details at
BrainBuildersEd.org and use code “DISH26” for 5% off camps.

CAMP JAMES
Located near the scenic Back Bay at Newport Dunes, Camp James has been an Orange County tradition for more than 35 years and was named “Best Day Camp” by Parenting OC Magazine for seven consecutive years. Ages 5–17 enjoy activities like archery, paddleboarding, STEM, watersports, drama, climbing wall, mini golf, laser tag, dance, martial arts, yoga and crafts. Known for its caring staff, theme weeks and special events, Camp James is ACA-accredited and parent-approved. CampJames.com

DANA POINT YACHT CLUB
A landmark in the harbor since 1952, Dana Point Yacht Club blends rich maritime tradition with a modern commitment to accessible sailing. Its Junior Sailing Program runs June 8 to August 7, offering week-long camps for ages 6-16. Led by highly qualified coaches, the program focuses on safety, confidence-building, and skill development—while keeping the experience fun and inspiring. From first-time sailors to seasoned racers, DPYC delivers an unforgettable summer on the water. It is filling up quickly, reserve your spot for a fun summer! PDYC.org

DANMAN’S
Dana Point Music
Celebrating 27 years, Danman’s Dana Point Music offers five weeks of summer camps starting June 15. Campers form a band, create a setlist and perform a live show by week’s end. Along the way, they design a band poster, complete a photoshoot and rehearse with professional instructors in guitar, piano, drums, bass and vocals. Camps are $350 per week and include snacks and drinks. Register by May 1 or present this ad for $25 off (plus multi-camp discounts). Danmans.com | 949.496.6556

CITY OF DANA POINT
Summer Camps
Discover an unforgettable summer in Dana Point! The City of Dana Point Community Services Department offers an exciting lineup of summer camps for ages 5–17. Choose from musical theater, basketball, sailing, SUP, robotics, tennis, pickleball, cooking, animation, chess, science, arts and crafts, cartooning, anime and more. Registration is now open, and early‑bird discounts are available through May 6. bit.ly/DPRecreation

FAIRMONT SCHOOLS
Fairmont’s award-winning summer programs keep kids curious, challenged and connected, with locations in San Juan Capistrano, Anaheim, Anaheim Hills and North Tustin. Camp programs for preschool through eighth grade offer an ACA-accredited experience combining recreation, academics and field trips. Summer School for kindergarten through eighth grade focuses on reading, writing and math, taught by Fairmont teachers and tailored to each student. High school students can choose from a wide range of UC-approved, WASC-accredited courses offered in person and online. FairmontSummerPrograms.com | 714.234.2757

IVY GATE FARM
Summer Camp at Ivy Gate Farm offers a fun, safe and educational experience for riders of all levels. Led by experienced instructors with more than 20 years of horsemanship experience, campers learn the fundamentals of riding and horse care while building confidence and responsibility in a positive, encouraging environment. Kids enjoy hands-on time with horses, develop their skills in the saddle and gain a deeper connection to these incredible animals—all guided by a passionate team dedicated to making each day meaningful and memorable. IvyGateFarm.com

KG BEACH CAMPS
A Dana Point Harbor tradition since 1987, KG Beach Camps offers fun, age-appropriate programs for children ages 4–13 at the OC Sailing & Event Center. Camp options include Mini Minnows, Beach Safari and H2O Adventures, with activities like tidepool trips, paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking, whale watching, beach games and crafts. Camps run June 15 to August 7 and fill quickly, so register early.
KBBeachCamps.com | 949.842.5211

LIL’ KICKERS
What do puppies, sharks, aliens and soccer have in common? Lil’ Kickers! This child development program is packed with creativity, high-energy activities and fun. The summer program features the award-winning Lil’ Kickers curriculum, multi-sport games and science and crafts. Led by professional teachers and coaches, each session is designed to provide a safe, supportive environment. Lil’ Kickers South OC offers flexible half-day programs, with options to attend one to five days per week, plus multi-day discounts. LilKickersSouthOC.com

LOS RIOS ROCK SCHOOL
Beginner and intermediate rock camps at Los Rios Rock School in San Juan Capistrano offer a hands-on music experience for ages 6–17. With seven full-week camps, students receive live music training from top-tier instructors. The week concludes with a live concert, where campers perform on a professional stage for family and friends. Camps run Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m.–noon, with tuition at $425 per week. A multi-camper discount is available. Spots fill quickly, so visit LosRiosRockSchool.com/SummerCamps to register. 949.456.1081 x700 | Schedule@LosRiosRockSchool.com

THE PERFORMER’S ACADEMY
The Performer’s Academy offers an engaging summer experience for young performers looking to take their musical theater skills to the next level. Summer camps provide training in singing, dancing and acting, led by expert instructors who help build confidence and ability. Students work on scenes and songs from popular musicals, culminating in a final showcase for family and friends. Camps also include social activities, creating a fun and supportive environment where students can build friendships and lasting memories. Sessions run June 8 to August 10. PerformersAcademy.net

SAN CLEMENTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
San Clemente Christian School’s summer camp keeps young minds active with engaging, themed weekly sessions. Running June through August from 9 a.m.–2 p.m., the program is designed for TK (age 4) through third grade and blends academics, STEAM activities, sports, water fun, arts and crafts and chapel. In a welcoming, hands-on environment, children build friendships, grow in faith and gain confidence for the upcoming school year. All families are welcome.
SanClementeChristianSchool.com/summer | 949.496.3513

SAN CLEMENTE DANCE
Voted back-to-back No. 1 dance studio in San Clemente, San Clemente Dance & Performing Arts Center celebrates its 31st summer of camps and workshops. Programs are offered for all levels, ages 3 to adult, including weekly sessions, once-a-week classes and weeklong camps. Young dancers ages 4–11 enjoy camps with arts and crafts, games and more, while intensives for beginning through advanced dancers feature hip-hop, jazz, ballet, tap, musical theater and tumbling. Auditions for the nationally ranked competition company, Element 5, will be held in June.
SanClementeDance.com | 949.498.7571

SAN JUAN HILLS GOLF CLUB
San Juan Hills Golf Club offers another summer of junior golf camps led by Alika Chow and James Skahill, PGA. Designed for ages 7–12, camps feature a low 6:1 student-to-instructor ratio and focus on personalized instruction. Sessions run for seven weeks beginning June 8, Mondaythrough Thursday from 8:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. (excluding the Fourth of July week). Each day is thoughtfully structured to help young golfers build skills and confidence, with light snacks and beverages provided. Camps are $400. SanJuanHillsGolf.com

WESTWIND SAILING
Westwind Sailing has offered educational boating programs since 1987, with sailing and paddling camps, adaptive sailing and classes for all ages and skill levels. Youth camps are available during spring break and throughout the summer. Recognized by the Dana Point Times Reader Recommends as “Best Camp for Kids,” “Best Kids Classes” and “Best Harbor Rec,” and named the city’s 2024 Business of the Year, Westwind is a U.S. Sailing Community Sailing Center and STEM hub. Located at the OC Sailing & Event Center in Dana Point Harbor. 949.492.3035 WestwindSailing.com

WILD RIVERS WATERPARK
Registration is now open for the 2026 Wild Rivers Junior Lifeguard Camp. This one-week camp for ages 6–12 combines fun and learning as campers build water safety skills, basic first aid knowledge, teamwork and confidence in a supportive environment. Campers also enjoy daily time on Wild Rivers’ water slides. Spots are limited and fill quickly. Registration closes 72 hours before camp begins, with no sign-ups accepted after noon on the Friday before each session. A full-day option is available, with pickup at 3:30 or 5 p.m. Use promo code LD50 for a special Local DISH offer, valid through May 1. WildRivers.com