Author Archives: the local dish

PierPride

PierPride

PierPride’s Pier Jump and 95th Pier Birthday Party

Help Preserve the San Clemente Pier

PierPride is dedicated to helping preserve the historic San Clemente Pier, the heart of the city since 1928. With two special events scheduled October 7 and 19, help support the maintenance and improvement of this treasured landmark.

Twelve lucky jumpers on October 7, 2023 will participate in a Marine-safety supervised Pier Jump. The event will begin at 10 a.m. Locals can be a pier jumper with a donation of $1,000. The minimum age to jump is 12 years old. 100% of funds go to preserve the Pier. Pier jumps are generously sponsored by San Clemente Life Guards. Contact Eileen Kawas today at 310.739.3617 to reserve your spot.

On Thursday, October 19, PierPride will also be hosting a 95th Birthday Party for the Pier at the Ole Hansen Beach Club. Light the future of the Pier by supporting this special evening. Attendees will enjoy cocktails, appetizers, live music, dinner and a unique San Clemente auction. Limited sponsorships are still available starting at $1,000 and individual dinner tickets are $250. Sponsorship donations are used to preserve the Pier for future generations.

PierPride is a non-profit organization dedicated to working in partnership with the city and community stakeholders to fill the gaps between city funds and the Pier’s needs in order to restore the Pier to the best version of its historic self. Their goal over the next couple of years is to raise sufficient funds for an endowment that will ensure preservation of this unique San Clemente experience long into the future. PierPride is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. EIN #32-0515984

Advanced Dermatology*

Advanced Dermatology*

GENERAL • COSMETIC • SURGICAL

Advanced Dermatology*Where do doctors and their families in South Orange County go when they need dermatological and cosmetic care?
They choose Advanced Dermatology at Dana Point (the one and only location) Why?

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

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

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

Cutting Edge Technologies
Advanced Dermatology incorporates the latest advancements in medical, surgical and aesthetic/cosmetic breakthroughs in its daily practice. The office has the most state-ofthe- art and cutting edge methods to provide personalized treatment options for skin cancers as well as the most dramatic cosmetic and body sculpting results with the least risk and little down time. Superficial Precision Radiation, CoolSculpting, EM sculpt NEO, Threadlifts, Mohs Surgery. You may not know what they are, but Advanced Dermatology has them and are experts in wielding these technological wonders.

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

Call Advanced Dermatology for all your dermatology needs!

Advanced Dermatology*
34213 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Dana Point
949.248.4547
DermSC.com

Advanced Dermatology*

Capistrano Children’s Dentistry

Capistrano Children’s Dentistry

DR. MANDI WILSON

Capistrano Children's DentistryCapistrano Children’s Dentistry (CCD) offers advanced care to keep your family’s smiles looking their best! The practice has been providing exceptional dental care to families in and around San Juan Capistrano for over 20 years. Led by Dr. Mandi Wilson, CCD is proud to be a one-stop shop for oral care for your entire family.

The doctors at CCD offer pediatric and infant dentistry, orthodontics for all ages, general and cosmetic dentistry for adults, all within a welcoming, family-oriented environment. As a patient-centered office, their specialized doctors and team focus on building trust in their open communication, involving patients in all aspects of care. Dr. Wilson is quick to point out, “This is your smile and you’re in charge!”

Originally from Texas, Dr. Wilson pursued her dental education at Baylor University and completed her residency at USC.

Her friendly Southern demeanor perfectly complements her dedication to pediatric dentistry. In addition to routine dental services like exams, cleanings, and fillings, Dr. Wilson personally attends to pediatric dental emergencies. She strives to create positive and enjoyable dental experiences, instilling a lifelong enthusiasm for oral health in children.

CCD believes that a child’s initial visit to the dentist should be a delightful experience. Children aren’t inherently afraid of the dentist; often, it’s the fear of the unknown. The practice takes special care to use comforting, non-intimidating language to explain each procedure. Their mission is to ensure that both patients and parents feel at ease right from their arrival at the office. Dr. Wilson and her team firmly believe that the more you and your child understand about the first dental appointment, the more comfortable everyone will feel. They prioritize comfort by providing supportive treatment chairs and offering sedation options to ensure a positive experience.

CCD extends a warm welcome to new patients, inviting them to reach out and schedule an appointment. As a token of appreciation, the practice offers all new patients a complimentary orthodontic consultation. Your family’s dental health is in good hands at Capistrano Children’s Dentistry.

Capistrano Children’s Dentistry
31163 Rancho Viejo Road, Ste. D5
San Juan Capistrano in Marbella Plaza
949.661.3380
CapistranoChildrensDentistry.com

Capistrano Children's Dentistry

Cold Rush Wellness

Cold Rush Wellness

SCOTT YOUNG, D.C.

Cold Rush WellnessDr. Scott Young is a Gonstead-skilled chiropractor and, together with his talented assistant, Demi, is ready to help patients with cutting-edge treatments. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Young utilizes his vast knowledge of chiropractic and applied kinesiology to help patients achieve optimal health. Dr. Young has also added percussion massage to his repertoire of effective care. Just in time for the opening of youth sports, this treatment utilizes high frequency vibration which is excellent for treating sports injuries.

Cold Rush Wellness’s percussion therapy uses the Pro Muscle Release 1000 from Modus Therapeutics. It is a hydraulic-powered, therapeutic modality that precisely administers the benefits of percussion therapy. This patented technology delivers rapid, mechanical percussions that penetrate multiple muscle layers, thereby promoting improved blood flow, accelerating recovery, and bringing muscle pain relief. Percussion therapy provides the following benefits:

  • Break-up of adhesions and internal scar tissue
  • Improvement of venous circulation and lymphatic drainage
  • Restoration of elasticity and length to muscle fibers
  • Relaxation of thickened connective tissue
  • Enhancement in range of movement by relieving joint stiffness
  • Break-up of lactic acid

Our other effective treatment, cryotherapy (scientifically called Cryo Stimulation) has been applied as a medical application for muscle pain treatment, including:

  • Delayed-Onset Muscle Pain and Soreness
  • Muscle Strain and Muscle Spasm
  • Post Surgical Recovery
  • Joint Sprains
  • Shoulder Impingement
  • Sciatica
  • Tendonitis/Tendinitis
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Bursitis
  • Bulging and/or Herniated Disc
  • TMJ Syndrome

Cold Rush Wellness’s other treatments include: Whole Body Cryotherapy, Local Cryotherapy, CryoFacials, Chiropractic Care, percussion massage and AlphaSwitch Metabolic Training. If you feel that you, or someone you know, can directly benefit from the health services this treatment program provides, give Cold Rush Wellness a call and make the transformative appointment today.

Cold Rush Wellness
30251 Golden Lantern, Ste. B
Laguna Niguel
949.281.6853
ColdRushWellness.com

Cold Rush Wellness

DermFx

DermFx

ERIN ALONSO, MSN, FNP

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

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

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

Awards:

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

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

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

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

DermFx
134184 Pacific Coast Hwy,
Dana Point
949.487.5180
DermFX.com

DermFx

Dr. Nhu Q. Tran Pediatric Dentistry

Dr. Nhu Q. Tran Pediatric Dentistry

Dr. Nhu Q. Tran Pediatric DentistryDr. Nhu Q. Tran has been taking care of infants, children, and young adults in her San Clemente pediatric dental practice for almost 20 years. Dr. Tran enjoys establishing lifelong relationships with her patients and their families. Her patients come from nearby neighborhoods and cities, and some come back to her practice even after they have moved away, like from Tustin and Temecula, or even states like Hawaii and Texas. Moreover, Dr. Tran is now excited to be seeing a second generation of patients in her practice, her patients’ children!

Dr. Tran enjoys treating a wide age range of patients who visit her pediatric dental practice. As a pediatric dental specialist, she sees patients for the first time at 1 year old. She has fun tickling the teeth of infants and toddlers who visit her for their first check up and cleaning. She also takes pride and care guiding a fearful child or teenager through a treatment and helping them overcome their dental fears. And because Dr. Tran is one of a very few pediatric dentist that has full time dental hygienists in her practice, she is able to continue providing optimal dental care to her older patients who want to continue seeing her into their late teens. So, whether a child is excited to have their teeth “counted and brushed” or they are nervous about seeing the “tickle toothbrush” or “Mr. Slurpy”, Dr. Tran and her team work to provide every patient with a fun and educational experience that they enjoy and look forward to each and every time.

A native of Southern California, Dr. Tran went to UC Berkeley for her undergraduate education, then relocated to the Midwest and attended Case Western Reserve University School of Dentistry in Cleveland, Ohio. Having graduated among the top of her class, she became a recipient of the Pierre Fauchard Scholarship, and earned a membership into the National Dental Honor Society, Omicron Kappa Upsilon. Following dental school, Dr. Tran returned to Southern California to pursue two years of additional post-doctorate training in pediatric dentistry, at the University of Southern California. After receiving her Advanced Pediatric Dental Certificate from USC, Dr. Tran pursued further advancement in her specialty by achieving the status of Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. Aside from taking care of her private patients, Dr. Tran has given back to her Trojan roots by being a part of the USC Advanced Pediatric Dentistry Faculty since 2006.

Whether you see Dr. Tran in the office or on the baseball field rooting on her boys, be sure to say hello! And whether your child is one or 16, excited or nervous, healthy or has special health care needs, Dr. Tran and her team are trained and ready to provide the best care for your children.

Dr. Nhu Q. Tran Pediatric Dentistry
1171 Puerta del Sol, Suite A
San Clemente
949.481.5437 (KIDS)
SCKidsDentist.com

Dr. Nhu Q. Tran Pediatric Dentistry

Elite Vein Institute

Elite Vein Institute

ANNE LUHAN, MD, FACS, ABVLM, RPHS, CWSP

Elite Vein InstituteTake care of your leg health today!
People suffering from the harmful effects, discomfort and insightfulness of spider and varicose veins have discovered extraordinary results at Dr. Luhan’s Elite Vein Institute.

Do you have unsightly spider veins?
Spider veins are small, bluish veins seen on various areas of the legs and occasionally the face. They can resemble a bruise in appearance. They can be very unsightly and can cause self-consciousness. After careful treatment, Dr. Luhan’s patients are often happily wearing shorts again.

Do you experience discomfort, ankle swelling, heavy legs or varicose veins?
If so, you may be one of 80 million Americans who are plagued with varicose veins and may not even realize you have them. Many who have experienced varicose veins believe they are simply a cosmetic issue that is more of a nuisance than a genuine medical concern. The fact is that varicose veins are a massively underdiagnosed and undertreated problem that can progress into a more serious medical condition, if not addressed properly. Dr. Luhan is making it her mission to educate patients and the community about varicose veins.

Dr. Luhan’s practice offers a comprehensive approach correcting multiple causes of vein disorders and helps restore the look and health of every patient’s leg, whether the issue is cosmetic or healthrelated.

Procedures can be performed without invasive anesthesia and require little down time. Procedures are often covered by Medicare and other insurance companies. As a faculty member of national phlebology organizations, Dr. Luhan is always at the forefront of the latest technologies in the treatment of vein problems. For many patients, receiving treatment is life-altering, enabling them to now lead active, productive lives that were once not possible.

Dr. Anne Luhan is certified by the American Board of General Surgery, the American Board of Surgical Critical Care, the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine and the American Board of Woundcare Management. Having passed these prestigious boards shows full commitment to the treatment of venous disease. With these credentials and expertise, it’s no wonder that Dr. Luhan’s patients put their full trust in her hands.

Elite Vein Institute
Los Altos Medical Plaza
26691 Plaza, Ste. 140
Mission Viejo
949.388.4800
EliteVeinInstitute.com

Elite Vein Institute

Frank Mogavero, DDS

Frank Mogavero, DDS

ORTHODONTICS • FACIAL ORTHOPEDICS

Frank Mogavero, DDSMeet Dr. Frank Mogavero, a distinguished orthodontist with over 33 years of experience serving the San Clemente community. Recognized throughout South County as the go-to orthodontist for local Olympians and athletes, Dr. Mogavero says that despite his success, family always comes first. He’s happiest when he’s just Dad to the three most important people in his life, Ryder, Cambria, and Charlotte, who were featured alongside their Siberian Husky, Atlas, on the July cover (picutred below). Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Mogavero’s life centers around his children, active participation in the youth ministry at Shoreline Church, and coaching his son Ryder’s soccer team.

Dr. Frank Mogavero’s journey in the field commenced at the Baylor School of Dentistry, following his completion of an undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering at UCLA. Throughout the years, he also served as a clinical professor for post-doctorate residents in the Department of Orthodontics at USC, displaying an enduring passion for staying updated on the latest and most advanced treatments in the field.

This enthusiasm for innovation has positioned him as an early adopter of cutting-edge treatments over the past three decades. Today, he stands as one of the leading providers of InBrace, a distinctive treatment method that affixes behind the teeth and employs a digitally designed smart wire for tooth movement. “It’s the quickest treatment I’ve ever witnessed,” he attests. “People appreciate it not only for its concealment, but because it’s always active. That’s what makes it so effective.”

Yet, modern orthodontics isn’t solely about teeth. In recent years, emerging treatments have focused on enhancing a patient’s airway for improved breathing. “Our goal is to create space,” he explains. Aligning teeth and jaws opens up airway passages, enhancing airflow. This expanded space can facilitate better tongue positioning and prevent the tongue from falling back into the throat during sleep, a potential cause of airway obstruction and related breathing issues. Airway concerns have become one of the primary reasons parents seek their child’s first orthodontic consultation at his office.

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) advises that children have their initial orthodontic assessment by age 7. Even if tooth alignment isn’t an immediate concern, Dr. Mogavero can assess a child’s airway and provide treatment for breathing or snoring problems.

Eager to begin your orthodontic journey? Call today at 949.373.3737 or request an appointment at syncyoursmile.com. To learn more about InBrace, visit inbrace.me.

Frank Mogavero, DDS
1031 Avenida Pico, Suite 101
San Clemente
949.373.3737
SyncYourSmile.com
MyINBRACEdoc.com
Facebook: Mogavero Orthodontics
Instagram: @drfrankm
Twitter: @drfrankm

Frank Mogavero, DDS

Monarch Veterinary Hospital

Monarch Veterinary Hospital

GLENN CRAFT DVM, KELLY ALCALA DVM, AND KRISTIN ROSS DVM

Monarch Veterinary HospitalMonarch Veterinary Hospital, located at Clubhouse Plaza on Niguel Road, is celebrating 21 years of dedicated service. This coastal community holds a deep affection for their pets, with numerous scenic spots for walks at Salt Creek, the Strands, Dana Point Harbor, and various parks within the city. MVH plays a vital role in ensuring these pets stay healthy and active. The MVH team has earned a well-deserved reputation for excellence in pet healthcare, fostering strong and trusting relationships with clients and their beloved animals. Many pets genuinely relish their visits to Monarch Veterinary Hospital where they feel cared for and comfortable.

In 2019, a significant remodel and expansion project effectively doubled the facility’s size, guaranteeing its continued growth and commitment to its practice culture in the years ahead. The hospital now boasts four generously- sized examination rooms, an expansive front lobby, and a fully-equipped bathing suite. While grooming is not provided, the hospital offers bathing services, closely supervised by the technical staff.

Founded by Dr. Glenn Craft and his wife, Lisa, who returned to California in 2002 after four years of service with Christian Veterinary Mission in Thailand, MVH embodies a unique blend of compassionate, personalized care and cutting-edge veterinary medicine. Their aim is to exceed client expectations with every interaction. The hospital provides a comprehensive range of veterinary services, including wellness checks, immunizations, general surgery, dental care, therapeutic laser treatments, bathing, and ultrasound, along with digital radiography and access to STAT radiology consultations.

Dr. Kelly Alcala, a part-time Associate with a reputation for highly competent and compassionate care, has been an integral part of the MVH team since 2015, having worked parttime at the practice for nine years prior. Dr. Kristin Ross, who recently joined as an Associate, has quickly become a valuable addition to the growing hospital. The doctors have established strong relationships with carefully selected specialists in South Orange County, and the hospital also offers mobile services by appointment, including cardiology with Dr. Fred Brewer and specialty surgical procedures with mobile surgeon Dr. Zachary Smith, who also provides mobile CT-scanning services. Expert ultrasound services are available by appointment.

MVH consistently receives glowing reviews, a testament to its commitment to delivering high-quality care with integrity. The staff takes pride in offering exceptional customer service and treats both pets and their owners with warmth, making everyone feel like a valued part of the MVH family.

Monarch Veterinary Hospital
31271 Niguel Road, Suite E
Laguna Niguel
949.443.1466
MonarchVet.com

Monarch Veterinary Hospital

Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery

Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery

ANNE MARIE MCNEILL, FAAD, MD, PHD

Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic SurgeryThe newest Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery location in San Juan Capistrano is an exciting addition to South County. This expansion brings top-tier medical and cosmetic dermatology care closer to its residents. The esteemed team of boardcertified experts at NBDPS travel between both their locations to provide comprehensive and specialized care for various skin needs. NBDPS has a wide range of complex cosmetic treatments from total body sculpting with Coolsculpting and truSculpt flex, skin tightening with Ultherapy and Ellacor, skin resurfacing with fractionated CO2 and other state of the art lasers and cosmetic injectables.

Anne Marie McNeill M.D., Ph.D., FAAD
Founder and President

Dr. McNeill’s extensive experience in procedural dermatology, particularly in laser treatments, injectables, and Mohs surgery, establishes her as a leading authority in the field. Her special focus on vulvar dermatology further highlights her expertise.

Christopher Ellstrom M.D.
Dr. Ellstrom’s proficiency in both medical and cosmetic plastic surgery, with a specialization in facial/neck plastic surgery, makes him a valuable asset to the team. In addition, his expertise in Mohs skin cancer closures, reconstructions, and excisions further enhances the range of services offered.

Robin Lewallen M.D., FAAD
Dr. Lewallen’s specialization in complex medical dermatology cases and mastery of Mohs surgery ensures that patients receive top-notch care, particularly for intricate skin conditions. Her expertise is a valuable addition to the San Juan Capistrano location.

Larisa Lehmer M.D., FAAD
Dr. Lehmer’s unique approach, which bridges medical and cosmetic dermatology, provides a well-rounded perspective on skin health. Her excellence in laser treatments for conditions like rosacea and pigmentation, as well as her focus on overall skin rejuvenation, is sure to benefit patients. Additionally, her emphasis on the impact of nutrition on skin health demonstrates a holistic approach to dermatology.

Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery
27512 Calle Arroyo
San Juan Capistrano
949.706.7886
newportbeachdps.com

Newport Beach Dermatology and Plastic Surgery