Author Archives: the local dish

Williams Dental

Williams Dental

TRICIA L. WILLIAMS, DDS

Williams DentalWilliams Dental is a practice devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile. The practice is specifically noted for using conservative, yet state-of-the-art procedures that result in dazzling, long-lasting smiles.

About
Dr. Tricia Williams lives in Laguna Niguel and has been a part of the community for 18 years. Dr. Williams earned her DDS degree from Loma Linda University School of Dentistry. She went on to complete a graduate program in Biomedical and Clinical Ethics at Loma Linda University and taught ethics at its Dental School. She is also the recipient of an award for Law and Ethics in Dentistry given by the National Society of Dental Practitioners. With over fifteen years of experience in general and cosmetic dentistry in South Orange County, she is accustomed to treating patients of all ages.

Dr. Williams is very passionate about the art and science of dentistry. She has completed hundreds of hours of post-graduate continuing education in all areas of general and cosmetic dentistry and is dedicated to keeping current with the latest advances in technology while administering exceptional patient care. She provides safe and effective results through her conservative, minimally invasive and patient-centered dental techniques.

High Standards
A standard of excellence in personalized dental care enables Williams Dental to provide the quality dental services its patients deserve. They apply comprehensive treatment planning and use restorative and cosmetic dentistry to help achieve optimal dental health. If a dental emergency should occur, they make every effort to see and care for their patients as soon as possible.

Education & Prevention
The team at Williams Dental truly believes that preventative care and education are the keys to optimal dental health. They strive to provide the most comprehensive and compassionate care possible. They know that routine cleanings, flossing and sealants are helpful in preventing dental disease. Not only is the practice focused on the health and beauty of your smile, they’re also concerned about your general health. A healthy mouth translates to better overall health. There is an important link between oral health and many systemic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

Experience the Williams Dental difference and make your appointment today!

WILLIAMS DENTAL
30131 Town Center Drive, Ste. 150
Laguna Niguel
949.495.2000
WilliamsCosmeticDentistry.com

 

Williams Dental

 

Bistro Provincia

Bistro Provincia

Bistro Provincia

Fusion Cuisine & Bar

By Dina Scaglione

When you envision the landscape of Dana Point restaurants, you might conjure up images of California cuisine, seafood eateries and lively pubs. Bistro Provincia offers a departure from the Dana Point dining scene you may be accustomed to, serving up an elegant, yet exotic culinary experience that’s difficult to put in the proverbial box.

Unique and flavorful best describes Bistro Provincia’s fusion cuisine, inspired by Executive Chef Manuel ‘Manny’ Diaz, who brings a multi-ethnic bistro-type flair, cultivated from years of cooking alongside French chefs in Los Angeles. Chef Manny’s wife and co-owner, Veronica, greets guests with a genuine warmth and charm, adding to the many ingredients that have made Bistro Provincia a go-to spot in the quaint Lantern District area of Dana Point.

Bistro Provincia delivers an interesting blend of Asian, Latin and French dishes, prepared tapas-style and as hearty, large plates. Whether you prefer to dine al fresco, perched at the marble ensconced bar or seated in the rustic dining area, there’s an inviting ambience and range of fare to suit the most discerning guests.

I became an instant fan after sampling the restaurant’s Caribbean Shrimp and Mango Tostaditas, featuring roasted wild shrimp, fresh mango, red onion and a healthy dollop of lime-cilantro aioli served up on crispy blue corn chips. I also highly recommend the Chicken Curry Lumpia with jidori chicken and veggies, rolled and lightly fried atop a tangy coriander-curry dipping sauce. If you want a truly different dish, try the wok sautéed rice noodles and duck entrée, with flat rice noodles and tender ginger-roasted duck, sautéed baby bok choy and sprinkled tangy dried cranberries. Another brilliant blend of flavors is the Lemongrass Jidori Chicken Breast, with aromatic lemongrass accompanied by vegetable Thai curry fried rice and bok choy. Cap off your meal with the Yin-Yang, Bistro Provincia’s signature dessert; a moist, dark chocolate cake topped with a delicate Chantilly butter cream frosting.

Situated in Dana Point’s Park Plaza, tucked between PCH and Golden Lantern, Bistro Provincia is open Tuesday through Sunday for both lunch and dinner. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and dinner from 4 to 9 p.m. (5 to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday). Choose from a wide assortment of adult beverages, including hand crafted cocktails, draft beer and wine. Stop in for Tapas Hour: early tapas from 4 to 6 p.m. or late-night tapas from 8 p.m. until closing.

Bistro Provincia
34091 La Plaza, Dana Point
949.482.1011
BistroProvincia.com

Advance Laser & Cosmetic Surgery

Advance Laser and Cosmetic Surgery

Advance Laser & Cosmetic Surgery

By Victoria Kertz

Are you considering cosmetic surgery? What was once a private topic of conversation amongst only your best girlfriends is now the subject of reality shows and open discussions at the water cooler. Tummy tucks and nose jobs have become routine procedures, but modern definitions of beauty have redefined cosmetic surgery to meet the desires of today’s clientele.

Advance Laser & Cosmetic Surgery offers the latest in surgical and non-invasive facial rejuvenation procedures to keep OC housewives and their husbands looking great. Dr. Ali Roham combines medicine and art, bringing his surgical expertise to both Advance Laser & Cosmetic Surgery locations: in the South Coast Plaza-area, and in San Clemente, where Dr. Roham calls home. “I love San Clemente,” he says, “The beach lifestyle is very laid back.” What are the most requested procedures? Dr. Roham says that breast augmentations and liposuction are common at his San Clemente practice and that tummy tucks and Brazilian butt lifts are popular at the South Coast-area office. A large portion of his practice is also focused on rhinoplasty, various facial enhancements and both cosmetic and reconstructive breast procedures.

The proliferation of social media and selfies have created demand from those seeking to diminish their perceived flaws. In the age of quick fixes, however, Dr. Roham cautions against claims made by those without the experience or expertise to deliver realistic results. Exaggerated claims and miracle cures should be met with a healthy dose of skepticism. In contrast, Dr. Roham prides himself on offering patients an honest, thoughtful assessment of expectations.

Patients appreciate the time Dr. Roham takes during consultations… listening to their concerns and addressing surgical options to achieve a tailored approach. Dr. Roham is very honest with his patients, and it’s important to him that his results appear balanced and natural. He believes that being conservative creates a more appealing aesthetic, instead of what he describes as a wind-swept look, that sometimes results from being overly aggressive.

To maintain a fresh and rested appearance, Dr. Roham’s practice also offers all of the newest options in non-invasive therapies, including injectables, lasers and topical treatments. The reduction of fine lines, a more even skin tone, the removal of veins and unwanted hair are all within reach and with minimal to no down time.

Dr. Roham has an undergraduate degree from the University of California at Irvine and a medical degree from Midwestern University in Arizona. Having completed five years of comprehensive general surgery at Michigan’s Henry Ford Health System and three years in the Plastic and Reconstructive Residency at Beaumont Health System, he has a wealth of knowledge that lends to his area of expertise. He also served as administrative chief of the residency in his final year on both campuses. Dr. Roham also spent time on a mission in India, performing cleft palate surgeries and reconstructive procedures on burn victims.

If you’re contemplating cosmetic/plastic surgery or a non-invasive procedure, then contact the offices of Advance Laser & Cosmetic Surgery — open six days a week, including Saturday hours at the South Coast Plaza location. Dr. Roham says his staff works hard to make sure the doctors are scheduled when their patients need them. “We always strive to see patients quickly,” he says. With that kind of customer service and Dr. Roham’s expertise, you have every reason to call for a complimentary consultation.

 

Advance Laser and Cosmetic Surgery

San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival

San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival

San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival

A highly anticipated, fun-filled weekend is right around the corner! The San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival, sponsored by Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church, returns to San Juan Capistrano for its 7th annual celebration of Greek culture on Saturday and Sunday, September 28th and 29th. The event is chock-full of authentic Greek food and drink, live music, traditional Greek dancing, souvenir shopping at the Greek Bazaar, and a fully-loaded Kids Zone.

Authentic and delicious Greek fare, including favorites such as Gyros, Mediterranean-seasoned Lamb Chops, Souvlaki (kebabs), Spanakopita (savory spinach pastry), Tiropita (layered cheese pastry), Pastitsio (Greek lasagna) and Greek Salads will tempt and tantalize festival attendees. You’ll enjoy handmade Greek delicacies from traditional family recipes, including mouth-watering Baklava, powdered sugar Kourambiethes and honey-dipped Loukoumades (Greek donut holes) along with traditional Greek coffee and refreshing iced coffee Frappés.

Don’t miss the popular “Taverna” with a sports bar twist – equipped with big-screen satellite TVs where guests can enjoy domestic favorites, as well as Greek beer, wine and Ouzo. Stroll through the Festival’s Greek Vendor Marketplace where you’ll find an assortment of unique ingredients (including Greek olive oil, honey, teas, and spices) along with an array of themed souvenirs, gifts, jewelry and books to tempt shoppers of all ages.

The Greek word “Kefi” means the spirit of joy, fun and a passion for life. You’re sure to feel Kefi as you’re transported to the enchanting country of Greece by the sights, sounds and culinary delights of this fun-packed Festival weekend. Within seconds, the live music and Greek dancing will have you on your feet, expressing your inner-Kefi with shouts of “Opa!” and an unusual desire to break plates! (Don’t worry… easy-to-follow lessons are provided.) The Saint Basil award-winning dance troupes will also perform traditional dances in authentic costumes representing different regions of Greece.

Hours for the festival are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Parking is free all weekend long.

For more information on the San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival, please call 949-542-3445, or visit www.SJCGreekfest.org or the event’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages @SJCGreekFest.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO GREEK FESTIVAL
San Juan Capistrano Community Center
25925 Camino Del Avion, San Juan Capistrano

Sweat House OC

Sweat House OC

Sweat House OC

By Victoria Kertz

Sweat House OCFit Pilates changed their name to Sweat House OC, but they’ve got the same owners, trainers and heart-pumping workouts on the renown Megaformer.

Pilates is one serious exercise and some of the best bodies you’ll ever see are the result of it. Traditionally conducted on a machine called a reformer, Pilates uses resistance-based movements to create a full-body workout combining strength and cardio. But that’s so last year.

Sweat House OC (formerly Fit Pilates) offers the ultra-modern Megaformer, a spring-based machine that can be modified for any exercise or body type. “The method is high intensity yet low impact, which means safe on your joints and bones,” says Sweat House owner Ashlyn Ritchie.

Besides being an amazing workout, Sweat House trainers know your time is precious, so no time is wasted. “We get our cardio through our quick transitions. There is no ‘breaking’ during this quick 50 minute workout. We maximize our time by providing a time-under-tension workout… which will guarantee some serious calories burned!” Ritchie emphasizes.

With locations in San Clemente and Mission Viejo, each class is kept to eight people. “We structured this intentionally so all of our clients get the attention they need. Because we have new clients in almost every class, we want to make sure they are safe, doing the moves correctly,” she explains.

Even better, all classes are all-levels, so a new client can hop in on any of them. Private classes are available, but not required.

“Sweat House OC opened with the dream of creating a space for clients to not only burn some serious calories, but a place where they can feel safe, confident, build friendships and gain a sense of a supportive community,” she says. “Our goal is to accept every-BODY and encourage them to be their best selves. Whatever we can do to encourage that and assist in that, we will.”

SWEAT HOUSE OC
1001 Avenida Pico, Suite H • San Clemente
24000 Alicia Parkway, Suite #30 • Mission Viejo
SweathouseOC.com

Prime Fabrication

Prime Fabrication

Prime Fabrication

By Victoria Kertz

You’ve likely seen Prime Fabrication’s metal magic in Southern California without even knowing it…from coastal estates in Orange County to the iconic Andaz West Hollywood hotel. Owner Trevor Streech has been known for taking steel to new heights, but now that he has acquired a 40 ton mobile crane, the sky’s literally the limit.

In the industrial district of San Juan Capistrano, Prime Fabrication’s facility is a beacon surrounded by the banal. Chic, metal awnings grace the building’s façade, a sleek stainless steel flagpole boasts a pristine American flag and even the mailbox gleams in the faintest light. A brushed steel railing, that any beachfront resort would envy, marks the entrance to your fabrication fantasy. Don’t let the impressive exterior fool you, however, there’s some serious metal work being done inside.

Founder Trevor Streech has been working with metal for as long as he can remember. The San Clemente native and Dana Hills High School graduate started young, watching his father grow premier yacht manufacturer Nordhavn, and learning steel fabrication in the marine business. In fact, when he opened Prime Fabrication in 2001, it catered almost exclusively to clientele in the boating industry. Today, the company’s workmanship is in high demand amongst discerning custom home builders, a multitude of restaurants and even luxury retail brands.

So how did Prime Fabrication become one of the most prominent structural steel contractors in Southern California? After the hard-hitting recession of 2008 impacted much of Orange County, homeowners were left scrambling as the real estate bubble burst. The economic downturn prompted Streech to expand his services to include structural steel fabrication.

Since steel fabrication was Prime’s core business, it made perfect sense to broaden the company’s scope to include residential and commercial real estate projects, supplying structural beams necessary in remodeling and construction. As a complement, Trevor tapped into his creative side and began designing timeless architectural features like deck railings, stairways and unique fireplaces. These jobs allowed Trevor to develop deeper relationships with custom builders and contractors, translating into greater opportunities as his reputation for quality craftsmanship grew throughout the industry.

“Trevor has a really good eye for design,” says his wife Morgan, who also works at Prime Fabrication. She says that Trevor’s artisanal skill with metal has opened new doors for the business, as homeowners seek to update homes built decades ago with small, but impactful additions. An entirely new home may be beyond the budget, but an updated stairway, open shelving or a modern fireplace will breathe life into a dated space. “It’s great to be able to build the structure and then come back and make it beautiful,” Morgan enthuses. “You don’t realize how many little custom touches you can add.”

“Art sculptures are also something we do,” Trevor adds, pointing to the stainless steel mailbox at Prime’s entry as an example of architectural metal that is as functional as it is artistic. There’s also a striking, lighted sign bearing the building’s address that would add a statement to any structure. Prime was subcontracted to provide the same impressive fixture at each of San Francisco’s BART stations. It looks ultra-modern, but the design was a pragmatic choice by the city. Stainless steel doesn’t rust and ages more gracefully when exposed to a variety of weather elements.

While structural steel fabrication currently represents the bulk of their work, an investment made in 2018 serves as the newest arm of the company: a 40 ton crane that Prime rents by the hour. “It’s practical for us to have so we can install our own steel, but there’s a surprising demand for large cranes. It’s just one more way to diversify the business,” explains Morgan. Pool companies utilize it for removing bulky old hot tubs from backyards. Landscapers, framers and other contractors frequently need one to unload a variety of oversized and heavy items. Prime even includes a certified crane operator to make certain the work is performed correctly and safely.

Whether you’re in the market for a custom spiral staircase, need to powder coat your tired patio furniture, or have a play structure to crane into the backyard, Trevor and his expert design and fabrication team are available to assist. If it can be created in steel, Prime Fabrication will gladly provide you with a quote for your next project, no matter how big or small.

Prime Fabrication
33081 Calle Perfecto
San Juan Capistrano
949.496.1348
PrimeFabrication.com

 

Back to School 2019

Back to School
August 2019

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St. Anne School

St. Anne School
INSPIRING STUDENTS TO DISCOVER
WHAT KIND OF GREAT THEY WANT TO BE

st anne school side

Who we are…
As an independent Catholic school, St. Anne School encourages students from preschool through grade 8 to expand their world and discover their passions. Walk through the halls of St. Anne School and you’ll see students holding doors open for guests, collaborating on a project, and high-fiving teachers and administrators. St. Anne School is a friendly and nurturing learning environment, focused on educating the whole child. Students at St. Anne are happy, respectful, and engaged learners who are ready to discover what kind of great they want to be.

What we do…
St. Anne School partners with parents to ensure every child achieves an education that supports their needs, talents, and interests while forming their character and spiritual development. The exceptional teachers at St. Anne inspire students to develop independence, discover their love of learning, and push themselves to unlock their potential. Students are empowered further by using state-of-the-art technology to develop their academic strengths.

St. Anne families come from a variety of faith backgrounds. Students are taught to treasure their faith and are encouraged to develop their spirituality as they participate in weekly Mass, daily prayer, and community outreach.

Exceptional core academics are enriched by a variety of elective classes and after-school programs starting as young as Kindergarten. Some of these electives and programs include FIRST Lego League, Garage Rock Band, Food and Fitness, Create and Innovate, and Navigating Our World. Students have the opportunity to grow in virtue by participating in St. Anne School’s 21 sports teams and award-winning performing arts program.

What we achieve…
A St. Anne graduate is a well-rounded, compassionate, creative, and curious young adult, well-equipped for a challenging high school experience and ready to live out their own greatness.

Discover St. Anne School. The school’s doors are open and they welcome you.

To schedule a private tour or learn more about St. Anne School, please text or call the Office of Admissions at 949.371.9932.

St. Anne School
32451 Bear Brand Road
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
www.st-anne.org

 

st anne school

Saddleback Valley Christian School

Saddleback Valley Christian School
THINK YOU CAN’T AFFORD A QUALITY
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION? THINK AGAIN!

saddleback valley christian schoolSaddleback Valley Christian School is proud to offer Variable Tuition, which matches your tuition with your unique financial situation. This makes an exceptional Christian education accessible to families for whom it might otherwise be out of reach. SVC believes this is representative of God’s heart.

The mission of Saddleback Valley Christian School is to educate AND disciple all students as they seek to discover their purpose in the work of God’s Kingdom. Serving Preschool through High School, SVC is a college-preparatory, WASC-accredited school. Outstanding academics are paired with many opportunities in athletics, the arts, missions and service. Small classroom sizes (low student/teacher ratios) foster a safe, family-oriented learning environment.

THE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL FOR ALL

  • Preschool through High School
  • 18:1 average student to teacher ratio
  • Biblically-integrated curriculum, missions & local outreach
  • Daily Christian-based discipleship
  • 100% college acceptance rate
  • 22 AP & honors courses
  • Average MAP and SAT scores in the 80th percentile
  • Innovative, project-based STEAM program (Project Lead the Way-certified)
  • 1:1 technology initiative
  • Locally and nationally-recognized faculty
  • Vibrant student life including retreats and clubs
  • Comprehensive fine arts program spanning Elementary through High School
  • 19 CIF sports
  • 93 collegiate athletic scholarships
  • College & career prep cohorts
  • 14,000 community service hours per year
  • Multiple elective opportunities
  • Serving all of South Orange County since 1997

For more information,  please contact 949.443.4050  or admission@svcschools.org.

Saddleback Valley Christian School
26333 Oso Road
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
949.443.4050
www.TheChristianSchoolForAll.org

 

saddleback valley christian school

 

Stratford School

Stratford School
CONNECTING STUDENTS TO THEIR UNIQUE FUTURES
Enrolling Preschool – 8th Grade

 

stratford school sideAt Stratford School, high expectations lead to extraordinary results. The school’s advanced, innovative, and intentionally balanced curriculum inspires, challenges, and nurtures the minds and hearts of every student. It also produces impressive results. Stratford students outscore independent school students, are recognized for academic achievement, and contribute to their communities.

The curriculum is created in a thoughtful and deliberate way to provoke curiosity, nurture exploration, and encourage inquiry. Students develop a love of learning, study above grade level, and prepare themselves for the future.

Stratford infuses its broad liberal arts curriculum with Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). It combines traditional teaching styles with 21st century learning principles, integrating technology with careful intention. The school provides a variety of extracurricular pursuits, personal development activities, physical education, and play time. The teachers cultivate a physically and emotionally secure classroom environment. The staff both welcome and listen to the feedback of students’ parents.

The result is a rich spectrum of hands-on learning opportunities — provided in an energized classroom atmosphere where students are mentally focused and highly engaged — that enable students to learn, question, collaborate, and develop the diverse skills and talents they need to compete in today’s world.

Harnessing the collective power of over 6,000 students, 800 teachers, 100 administrators, and 300 classrooms, Stratford School is able to explore and rapidly implement new teaching practices to achieve the ultimate goal of preparing students to become the next generation of creative problem-solvers, imaginative innovators, and confident, insightful leaders.

To learn more, visit:  www.StratfordSchools.com/mission-viejo

Stratford School
24741 Chrisanta Drive
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
949.458.1776
www.StratfordSchools.com

 

stratford school