Author Archives: the local dish

Celebrity Chef Marc Cummings

Celebrity Chef Marc Cummings

Celebrity Chef Marc Cummings

at TANNINS Restaurant & Wine Bar

By Veronica Badzey

Celebrity Chef Marc CummingsFor over ten years, Tannins Restaurant and Wine Bar has been bringing the art of Southern Italian cuisine to diners throughout South Orange County. A beloved favorite with locals, Tannins is known for its delectable Mediterranean menu, meticulously curated California wines, and friendly, old world ambience. Now, there’s even more reason to visit Tannins with the addition of Celebrity Chef Marc Cummings.

Guests of the restaurant might recognize Chef Marc from his hit Food Network TV shows: Simply Sumptuous with Chef Marc and The Very Best of Everything with Marc Cummings, where he was instrumental in introducing the network to the food and travel concept. Chef Marc received his training in the culinary arts at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, then spent 18 years as Executive Chef on world-class cruise ships such as Crystal Cruise Lines, Oceana, and Seaborne. In 2006 and 2007, he was invited by Secretary of Defense Robert Gates to orchestrate 42,000 Thanksgiving dinners for U.S. troops stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan, as part of Operation Season’s Greetings.

“What drew me to Tannins,” Chef Marc shares, “was the exceptional menu. I’ve traveled all over Europe and I’ve seen the best of Italian cuisine, and in my opinion, Tannins is the top Mediterranean restaurant in all of Orange County.”

In his new role at Tannins, Chef Marc has elevated the menu with handcrafted appetizers, entrées and dessert specials that are updated every two weeks. His creations showcase the freshest possible ingredients, high quality pastas, and tempting flavors based on authentic European dishes.

According to Chef Marc, he typically prepares his specials where most of the dishes separate certain culinary dynamics which help to pair the vast collection of fine red and white wines at Tannins. Just ask your server or the restaurant’s sommelier for a recommendation on the perfect bottle to complement your meal.

When it comes to the main event, be sure to try the traditional Venetian Pancetta Carbonara, made with premium pancetta, linguini, olive oil, parmesan cheese and egg. Another one of Chef Marc’s most popular entrée specials is his Seafood Posillipo, a delicious combination of fresh shrimp, clams, scallops, and salmon sautéed in a red wine marinara broth over linguini. For dessert, don’t miss the crowd-pleasing “Big Apple” — a homemade apple cobbler topped with vanilla bean ice cream. Equally sinful, the mouthwatering Strawberry Cherva dessert special, featuring strawberries sautéed in butter, brown sugar, and reduced balsamic vinegar, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and served over a roasted vanilla bean cake — the perfect ending to any meal.

Tannins also features handcrafted, brick-oven fired pizzas, a full bar, and a unique array of premiere California wines. The property also offers two private dining rooms that can accommodate intimate occasions and larger gatherings. The Wine Cellar and Levendi Wine Cave offer charming and cozy spaces that are perfect for hosting birthdays, corporate luncheons, rehearsal dinners, holiday parties and book clubs. Look for new and exciting events coming soon, including a monthly Special Rib Night featuring Chef Marc’s famous Lollipop Candy Roasted Baby Back Ribs, Wine Tasting Nights and Wine Dinners.

Guests also appreciate Tannins well-deserved reputation for delivering friendly, impeccable service. It’s waitstaff makes a special effort to greet customers by name, and the open kitchen allows diners the opportunity to watch their food being made while they wait. Chef Marc goes out of his way to greet customers at their tables, contributing to the family atmosphere often found at neighborhood establishments in the old country.

“Eating here,” says Chef Marc, “is as authentic and real as dining in Europe. The flavors are so robust, and the plate presentation and attention to detail is like I’ve never seen anywhere in the world, on the finest cruise ships, or at the most luxurious resorts. Tannins brings it to you.”

Tannins also offers off-site catering for events of all types and sizes. For a truly exclusive dining experience, Chef Marc is available for private dinner parties in your home. For groups of 10 to 12, consider having him prepare a meal to remember at your next special occasion.

Get a behind the scenes look at the Tannins cover photo shoot on YouTube.

Tannins Restaurant and Wine Bar
27211 Ortega Hwy
San Juan Capistrano
949.661.8466
TanninsRestaurant.com

Anneliese Schools

Anneliese Schools
50 Years as a Community Leader in Forward-Thinking Education

Anneliese Schools

Visit Anneliese Schools at one of its three enchanting campuses in Laguna Beach for the annual Enrollment Information Nights for 2018- 2019. Learn why Anneliese Schools is highly sought-after with a 50-year history as a leader in globally minded, research-based education. The schools accept students 2-years-old through 6th grade. Anneliese welcomes you to schedule a private tour to learn more.

Discover what sets Anneliese Schools apart:

  • Instructional methodologies supported by the latest research in neuroscience, social science, and education, delivered in inspiring indoor and outdoor learning environments.
  • Humanistic, academic curriculum emphasizing whole-brain and project-based learning that incorporates STEAM challenges designed to prepare students for 21st century opportunities.
  • Early foreign language acquisition through a developmental, intensive foreign language program (Spanish, French, German, Japanese, and Sign Language).
  • Fostering strong emotional intelligence using multiple strategies and programs, including mindfulness, yoga, HeartMath, and Second Step.
  • Lunch and snack program guided by research on child nutrition, sustainability, mindful eating, and eating a balanced diet. All meals are prepared in-house, fresh daily by a culinary team, from mostly organic and non-GMO ingredients.
  • International, dedicated, experienced, and community-minded team of educators who are passionate about the School’s philosophy. Teachers understand and adopt the latest multi-sensory teaching methods to ensure maximal retention of information, consistent with Multiple Intelligence Theory.
  • Carefully designed recess yards that enhance fine and gross motor skills, sensory integration, academic functioning, creativity, and social skills development.
  • Fine arts program for all ages, taught by professional artists.
  • Vocal and instrumental music program for all ages, including orchestra and band for 4th through 6th grades.
  • Hands-on organic gardening curriculum taught in a spacious garden that includes mature fruit trees, herbs, vegetables, a grape arbor, and a full composting site.
  • Comprehensive Athletics Program, including inter-mural sports teams for 4th through 6th Grades.
  • Animal care program that includes the training and care of miniature horses, donkeys, and alpacas, as well as a “Mini Readers” program, which pairs young readers with 4-legged friends to “listen.”

Anneliese Schools
20062 Laguna Canyon Rd.
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949.497.8310
www.annelieseschools.com

 

Anneliese Schools

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools
Preparing Students for Life and Leadership

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools

The investment you make in your children’s education is one of the most important decisions you will make in their lives. CVCS invests in relationships with young people that impact who they become as intellectual and social beings. It teaches its students how to think well in order to live well, and teaches them how to love well through the development of a Christian faith that informs every element of their lives. The teachers and students embody excellence in academic, spiritual, extracurricular, and cultural distinction. Above all, CVCS is marked by a deep sense of community where students and families are cared for in a way that delivers a more meaningful experience that will influence your child’s faith and character for the rest of their lives.

CVCS excels in the following:
ACADEMIC DISTINCTION:

  • CVCS is ranked as one of the top Christian schools in California
  • College acceptances at elite institutions, including Stanford, UCLA, Duke, Cornell, NYU, West Point, and the best Christian colleges including Wheaton, Westmont, and Biola
  • Highly qualified, fully credentialed teachers

SPIRITUAL FORMATION:

  • Leading Biblical worldview department in Southern California, including world-famous apologetics author Dr. Sean McDowell
  • Unique world and regional missions and educational trips to Russia, Fiji, Israel, Europe, Berkeley, Salt Lake City and Los Angeles
  • Mentorship programs to foster deep relationships between teachers and students to build a lifelong walk with Jesus Christ

EXTRA-CURRICULAR QUALITY:

  • 12 Division 1 athletes in the past five years
  • Back-to-Back Girls’ volleyball CIF Finalist and State Southern Section Finalist
  • 2014 CIF Champions in baseball
  • CIF semi-finals in three of the past five years in boys’ basketball
  • Incredible coaches are role models who develop the hearts and skills of their athletes
  • Macy Award-winning performing arts department, with high-quality theatrical performances and musicals throughout the year

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools
32032 Del Obispo Street
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
949.493.5683
www.cvcs.org

 

capistrano-valley-christian-schools

Halstrom Academy Laguna Hills/Mission Viejo

Halstrom Academy Laguna Hills/Mission Viejo
DISCOVER A BETTER WAY TO LEARN WITH ONE-TO-ONE INSTRUCTION

Halstrom Academy Mission Viejo

Halstrom Academy is an accredited private school for grades 6 – 12 offering over 170 courses including 21st century electives. Halstrom specializes in an innovative and student centric education model focused on 1:1 instruction. The school’s unique one student, one teacher approach is the core principal behind its academic success.

Halstrom fosters a bully-free environment where customized learning and a content mastery philosophy allow for each student to progress at their own pace. Because students at Halstrom meet with their teachers one-on-one, there is no room for distractions, hiding in the back of class, or feeling inferior to other students in the classroom. Instruction at Halstrom Academy creates a pathway to success for many students who can benefit from customized teaching and flexible scheduling. When not in class, students have opportunities to socialize together through clubs and activities. Every day, Halstrom Academy provides a powerful alternative for parents whose children may not be living up to their full potential in a traditional school.

Halstrom students come from various backgrounds. Some struggle with academia, learning challenges or social anxiety while others are athletes and actors who find the flexible scheduling options beneficial. Regardless of where students come from, they all value the 1:1 instruction that is not found in the traditional classroom.

Halstrom Academy has four campuses in Orange County with year-round, open enrollment for full-time or part-time schedules. Halstrom Academy is WASC & NIPSA Accredited and UC, CSU & NCAA Approved.

To RSVP for an upcoming information session or to schedule a no-obligation campus tour, call (866) 590-8458.

Halstrom Academy Mission Viejo
25201 Paseo De Alicia, Suite 250
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
866.590.8458
www.Halstrom4U.com

 

Halstrom Academy Laguna Hills / Mission Viejo

Pathway School

Pathway School
AN ALTERNATIVE FOR STUDENTS THAT STRUGGLE TO LEARN IN A TRADITIONAL SCHOOL SETTING

pathway-school

The Pathway Experience
Pathway understands that all children learn differently and that not all children can find success in a traditional classroom setting. It provides a small group approach to learning within a culture that instills confidence, respect, self-worth, and a growth mindset. The faculty at Pathway aims to ensure that no student falls between the cracks. Pathway recognizes the unique qualities, gifts, and needs of each student and strives to help students build upon their strengths, while honoring their learning challenges. The highly qualified staff employs research-based teaching strategies that complement the students’ individual learning styles, and allows them to overcome the obstacles blocking their way to academic success. The staff compassionately assists students that may struggle with social skills to build those skills and develop positive social relationships.

As students spend time at Pathway, they experience academic success and are encouraged to develop their areas of strength. Pathway students develop their unique learning style and become advocates for their optimum instructional experience. They expand their ability to think critically about the world around them. Students leave Pathway with an increased level of self-confidence, independence and social awareness, embracing a hope for their future.

Is Pathway right for your student?
Is your child struggling in reading, writing, or math? Do they have difficulty staying focused or organized? Is the workload too heavy and they can’t keep up? Are they overwhelmed by class size and peer interactions? Are they not receiving the support they need in order to be successful?

Pathway students possess the potential to perform well academically, but may struggle with:

  • Attention Deficit Disorder
  • Dyslexia
  • Language processing
  • Motivation and interest
  • Anxiety
  • Self-esteem
  • Auditory and visual processing
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • Other learning challenges

Within a nurturing Christian environment, Pathway School uses programs and strategies targeted to meet the needs of students who learn differently.

Pathway School
23802 Avenida de la Carlota
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
949.837.1203
www.PathwaySchool.net

Pathway School

 

Saddleback Valley Christian School

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

Saddleback Valley Christian School

Saddleback 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
  • 22 AP & honors courses
  • Vibrant student life includes retreats, clubs & athletics + 15 CIF sports
  • College & career prep cohorts
  • Multiple elective opportunities, including choir, art, musical theatre & web design
  • 1:1 technology, digital curriculum & robust STEM program (Project Lead the Way-certified)
  • Serving all of South Orange County since 1997

CORE VALUES

SVC is Kingdom-Minded:

  • Works to advance the cause of Christ in the world
  • Models and emulates Christ while seeking to disciple students
  • Worships God in every way possible

SVC is Student-Centered:

  • Believes that every student is fearfully and wonderfully made
  • Understands that every decision should be made through the lens of student experience
  • Affirms that diversity and accessibility are central to the development of Christian community

For more information, email  Grant Waggoner, Director of Admission, at gwaggoner@svcschools.org

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

 

Saddleback Valley Christian School

St. Catherine of Siena Parish School

St. Catherine of Siena Parish School
DiscoverYourself

saint-catherine-of-siena-parish-school-side

Why Choose Saint Catherine of Siena School?
Saint Catherine of Siena School serves students from Transitional Kindergarten through Eighth Grade. With a rigorous academic course of study, students are prepared for success in high school and beyond. The school has continually earned the highest level WCEA/ WASC accreditation.

The school is home to championship sports teams such as co-ed Inline Hockey, Flag Football and Girls Volleyball. The school also provides a wide range of after-school enrichment activities such as cooking, robotics, chess and instrumental music.

Saint Catherine School offers a Christ-centered education. It is a ministry for St. Catherine Parish in Laguna Beach, Corpus Christi Church in Aliso Viejo and St. Timothy Church in Laguna Niguel. If you ask our students and parents why this school is special, they respond that it is like family – they enjoy working together in their ‘second home’ and participating in community-building events together.

State-of-the-Art Facilities Emphasize Science and the Arts
The school was completely reconstructed in 2008. The campus offers one of the most beautiful, panoramic views of any Orange County school! Students navigate their day in spacious classrooms and separate elementary and middle school buildings. The campus features a well-equipped science lab, cutting-edge computer facilities, an art lab, library, music room, and gymnasium with a stage for performing arts.

Dedication to the Arts
Saint Catherine’s staff includes experts in the visual arts, music and theater. The comprehensive art program includes its own version of the famed Laguna Beach Pageant of the Masters. Students participate with Laguna Beach artists in a Plein Air Art program each year. The school partners with the Pacific Symphony Class Act Music Appreciation Program and it hosts an Oral Presentation Contest each year.

For information or to schedule a campus tour, please call the school office at (949) 494-7339

St. Catherine of Siena Parish School
30516 S Coast Hwy.
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949.494.7339
www.StCathSchool.org

 

St. Catherine of Siena Parish School

St. Junipero Serra Catholic School

St. Junipero Serra Catholic School
LARGE SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES – SMALL SCHOOL SENSE OF COMMUNITY

St. Junipero Serra Catholic School

At SJSC, the campus is filled with the excitement and energy of its students. When you walk through the doors, down the halls and into the classrooms, you’ll experience a warm welcome and see children that are happy and full of enthusiasm for learning while in a safe and caring environment. The wonderful community of families, a large and diverse student body along with the personal attention of a small school, is what truly sets it apart.

SJSC knows the importance of children experiencing religion firsthand. Their experiences give them a chance to understand the beliefs, purposes, issues and practices of the Catholic faith. The school has daily prayer, and students regularly attend Mass together. With a firm sense of their values and faith, students go out into the world as leaders to serve and make a difference.

ACADEMICS
St. Junipero Serra Catholic School has a strong curriculum and students experience academic success scoring above the national norms in all areas on standardized tests. In addition to a robust, standards-based curriculum, SJSC is an inclusion school and is well known for offering level-based education programs in Grades 1-8. The core subjects are complemented by classes in art, music, and Spanish, as well as physical education, library, and technology. The education programs at SJSC are designed to ensure academic success for all students.

CURRICULUM ENHANCEMENT, SPECIAL PROGRAMS & CLUBS

  • Academic Decathlon Participation (Grades 7 & 8)
  • Bear Prayer Partner Mentoring Program (between upper & lower grades)
  • Student Leadership
  • Campus Ministry
  • Choir and Hand bells
  • CJSF (California Junior Scholastic Federation)
  • Competitive Athletic Program (7 sports, Grades 1-8)
  • SerraVision Broadcast & Tech Crew
  • Spring Musical
  • After-School Classes & Extended Care
  • Homework Club

PRESCHOOL
St. Junipero Serra Catholic Preschool offers programs for three and four-year-old students. It provides developmentally appropriate activities and values play as an avenue to learning. The preschool teaches the whole child, spiritually, academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. St. Junipero Serra Catholic Preschool is licensed by the state of California (LIC# 304371061) and follows Diocesan guidelines. The students’ days focus on socialization, reading preparation and developing motor skills and independence. All of the classes emphasize play, art and music as part of their daily curriculum, and have access to both outdoor and indoor play spaces. Each classroom has one certified early childhood teacher and a qualified teacher’s aide.

Grand Opening of St. Junipero Serra Chapel & Student Creation & Leadership Center Sat., October 6 & Sun., October 7, 2018

Grades offered: Preschool-Grade 8 Accreditations: WCEA/ASC WASC fully accredited school

For information on enrollment, please contact Shirley Merchant, Admission Director, at 949-888-1990, ext. 123 or smerchant@serraschool.org

St. Junipero Serra Catholic School
23652 Antonio Parkway
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
(949) 888-1990
www.SerraSchool.org

 

St. Junipero Serra Catholic School

Stratford School

Stratford School
Connecting students to their unique futures
Enrolling Preschool – 8th Grade

Stratford School — Carden Academy

At 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

Temple Beth El

Temple Beth El
Providing Top Quality Educational Opportunities for All Stages of Life

Temple Beth El

Temple Beth El’s acclaimed Early Childhood Center has been enlightening children for over 16 illustrious years. The school has forged a strong reputation within the local community for its loving, experienced and long-term staff who are dedicated to each and every child in the program.

Temple Beth El offers a multitude of classes including Parent/Toddler classes for 7-24 months, Preschool for 2-4 years and a Pre-K/ TK program. In addition, Temple Beth El offers dynamic after school enrichment classes and before and after school care.

Each year, Temple Beth El has been able to provide early education for children with varying special needs in a traditional classroom setting. For example, a child in need of a support facilitator would be welcomed and immersed in the program. Temple Beth El’s preschool curriculum is built with a balance between academic and developmental philosophies of education, with an emphasis on the whole child. It is designed to create an environment that encourages a love for learning, with a focus on the social, emotional, cognitive and physical development of each child.

Pre-K students prepare for Kindergarten by utilizing the “Get Set for School/Handwriting Without Tears” curriculum. All Pre-K teachers have been trained in this program to best implement the curriculum. The Temple Beth El facility is clean, bright and cheerful and has large playground-facing windows in each room. The school goes the extra mile to help create not just a vivid and cheerful atmosphere, but a splendid learning environment.

Check the Temple Beth El website at tbesoc.org for registration forms and to learn all about programs being offered. Registration is now open. The school welcomes prospective families to schedule a tour of Temple Beth El this August. You can contact the admissions office at (949) 362-3999 ext. 317 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Temple Beth El
2A Liberty
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
(949) 362-3999
www.tbesoc.org

 

Temple Beth El