San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival

“OPA!” The three-day festival, sponsored by Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church, returns to San Juan Capistrano on Saturday, September 16th and runs through Sunday, September 17th. Guests will enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, live Greek music, traditional Greek dancing, specialty shopping at the bazaar and kid-friendly activities.

The authentic Greek menu will feature various Greek delicacies including gyros, souvlaki, lamb chops, spanakopita and Greek salad, as well as delicious pastries like mouth-watering baklava and kourambiethes (powdered sugar butter cookies) to accompany a delicious Greek coffee or iced coffee frappe. Make your way to the Taverna with a sports bar twist — equipped with big screen TVs where guests can enjoy domestic favorites as well as Greek beer, wine and ouzo.

The Greek word “Kefi” means the spirit of joy, fun and a passion for life. You will have the opportunity to experience this part of Greek culture at the festival as you dance to live Greek music. Don’t worry; lessons are provided and within seconds you will be expressing your Kefi with shouts of “Opa!” and an unusual desire to break plates. The Saint Basil dance troupe will also perform traditional dances in authentic costumes representing different regions of Greece. 

Festival hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday. Admission and parking are free. Saint Basil’s Church is located at 27129 Calle Arroyo, near the 74 Ortega Highway exit in San Juan Capistrano next to 24 Hour Fitness.

For more information on the San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival, please visit SJCGreekfest.org or call 949.542.3445.

Come join the fun at the 2017 Dana Point Lobster Fest at Doheny State Beach on Saturday, August 19th, hosted by the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club. Enjoy gourmet appetizers, no-host bar, fresh east coast lobster, smoked tri-tip steak, desserts, live music and dancing.

Proceeds go to Charities supported by the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club including Make-A-Wish, Boys & Girls Club, Dana Point 5th Marine Support Group and more.

Last year’s Lobster Fest had over 500 patrons & volunteers in attendance and our goal this year is to make it bigger and better! Come join the fun and tell your friends!

Buy tickets today for a discounted rate. Save $15 from price at door!  TICKETS

For more information this fun event please visit DanaPointLobsterFest.org.

TANNINS Restaurant & Wine Bar

By Veronica Badzey

When Gabriel Sanchez opened his small Italian deli over ten years ago, he had no idea it would become one of the finest restaurants in San Juan Capistrano. Combining old world style with a modern flair, Tannins Restaurant and Wine Bar has become more than an eatery specializing in delicious Mediterranean-Italian cuisine with exceptionally curated California wines. “We have evolved to take care of the customer’s needs,” says Gabe, “and the most important thing to me is our connection with the community.”

Guests walking into Tannins are often greeted by name, and the attentive and dedicated staff work diligently to create a welcoming, neighborhood atmosphere. With almost no employee turnover, Tannins’ staff has developed a tight family bond that enables them to deliver a more enjoyable experience to the customer. “I attribute our success to our amazing staff,” enthuses Gabe. Besides making an extra effort to get to know their clientele, the chefs and servers from Tannins can frequently be found volunteering for local charities and area schools, such as St. Margaret’s Episcopal School across the street, which provided Tannins with some of its first customers in its early days as a deli.

With menu items like Grilled Rib-Eye, Seafood Linguini, and handmade pizzas, it’s easy to find something to suit your palate. The restaurant’s signature olive spread provides a mouth-watering start to any dish, and a full range of delectable desserts such as Crème Brulée and Verona Tiramisu round out a truly decadent dining experience. Stop by for Tail Tuesday, Tannins answer to the Taco Tuesday trend. Savor filet and lobster tail, shipped in every week from the East Coast, for a mere $25.

Featuring Northern Mediterranean and Southern Italian cuisine, Tannins’ fare tends to be lighter than typical Italian offerings, accentuating quality, freshness, and environmentally conscious products. “We’re almost 100% green,” says Gabe, “and we’re always looking for ways to decrease our environmental footprint. It’s very important to our staff, and many of our customers.”

The restaurant’s layout encourages lively conversation between guests and staff, with a warm Mediterranean theme adding to its casual vibe. An open kitchen layout allows customers to interact directly with chefs as they prepare dishes and the pizza window gives you a view of your pie being made in real time. Modifications are always accommodated, and special requests are common, especially by regulars.

As the restaurant’s name implies, there’s a big emphasis on wine, specifically procurement and pairings. The wine list focuses almost exclusively on premiere California labels, because, as  Wine Manager Jesse Clanton puts it, “We live in the cradle of some of the best wines in the world.” With a talent for discovering local brands destined to become great successes – like the now-famous La Crema Chardonnay – Tannins is a treat for the connoisseur and causal wine drinker alike. “My goal is to bring you something you can’t find in your neighborhood grocery store,” shares Jesse, who sources new varietals from wine vendors on a weekly basis. Whatever your taste, you’re sure to find a new and exciting glass or bottle of white, red or bubbles that you’ve never experienced. Don’t hesitate to ask the knowledgeable staff for food and wine pairing recommendations; they gladly welcome the opportunity to assist.

For your next gathering or special event, ask about the Levendi Cave, an intimate, elegantly decorated room that’s perfect for rehearsal dinners, holiday parties, or even your monthly book club. Tannins’ Wine Cellar offers an ideal venue for business meetings or corporate functions. When you need an event catered, Tannins will accommodate any size party. No order is too small or too large, and a manager is always on call to tailor a menu to a customer’s specific needs and budget.

Tannins Restaurant and Wine Bar is open seven days a week, with Monday through Sunday lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wine Wednesdays offer half-priced bottles of wine, and Monday Happy Hour runs until 9 p.m., with reductions on even premium spirits. Visit TanninsRestaurant.com for more information and a glimpse of its private event spaces.

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Visit Anneliese Schools at one of its three enchanting campuses in Laguna Beach for the annual admissions open house. 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

CVCS has been offering one of the best academic experiences in a spiritually rich environment for more than four decades. Now, with an exciting vision for the future, the school is developing innovative facilities, programs, and curriculum to become a leader amongst its peers. This summer CVCS is investing nearly one million dollars into facilities improvements to better serve the needs of their families. The improvements include the expansion of a state–of–the–art athletic field, a renovated gymnasium with the best new hardwood floor in Orange County, an athlete’s lounge and study center, and an exciting new kindergarten classroom to facilitate their new STEM–based curriculum.

CVCS’ goal is to be a leader in innovation, and to that end the school is developing programs in all grade levels JK–12 that will prepare students for job markets that do not yet even exist. Whether it is a new STEM–based Kindergarten Grow program, or an emerging high school Entrepreneurial Leadership Academy, every effort is being made to enrich their students’ experience and engage them in learning that truly prepares them for the future.

In the midst of these innovations, the great strength of CVCS lies in the development of authentic faith and character. As the leading non–denominational Christian school in Orange County, the school’s teachers, coaches, and staff weave their faith in Jesus Christ into every element of their programs, and the result is a student who learns to apply a real faith to all aspects of their humanity. Additionally, the CVCS Bible department is simply the finest collection of Christian educators in their field, and students emerge with a deep understanding of theology, life application, apologetics, and worldview to prepare them to think and live well in an increasingly secular world.

Above all, CVCS is passionate about building a culture unlike any other. The school’s culture is based on the development of key characteristics including relationships, authenticity, positivity, enthusiasm, intellectual curiosity, excellence, service, humility, gentleness, patience, kindness, risk–taking, balance, and fun. When speaking to CVCS students, one will find that these are not just words or sentiments, they are true adjectives that embody a school experience that is significantly different than any other.

CVCS prepares students for life and leadership, to learn more, please schedule a visit today!

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

Halstrom Academy thinks outside the box when it comes to educating 6–12 grade students. The school’s one student, one teacher approach is the core principal behind its academic success, and an impressive college admissions record backs that up. An environment where customized schedules and a content mastery philosophy allows for each student to progress at their own pace is the norm at Halstrom, not the exception.

Most notable is Halstrom Academy’s hyper–focus on the individual needs of each and every student. 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. This is particularly the case for students who have learning issues such as ADHD, Dyslexia, and social anxiety, as well as for students in search of a bully–free environment. By implementing a one size does not fit all environment – students, teachers, parents and staff partner to develop a tailored plan for individualized learning.

Halstrom Academy offers robust college preparatory and Advanced Placement programs, as well as college counseling and tutoring. When not in class, students have many opportunities to work and socialize together through activities such as field trips and student government, and a variety of student clubs. Technology is a large part of Halstrom’s commitment to enhancing student and teacher communication. Both students and teachers use devices loaded with eTextbooks and other educational applications. Use of technology aids teachers in providing students with real life examples to make material more relevant.

Halstrom is WASC Accredited, UC/CSU certified and NCAA approved. For more information, call (866) 590–8458 or visit www.Halstrom4U.com.

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

Mathnasium Learning Center’s slogan is simple: “We make math make sense!” Whether your child started out far behind or is already ahead in math, Mathnasium helps students advance because they know that any child can be successful in math—it’s a matter of teaching it in a way that makes sense to them.

Experienced math tutors utilize proprietary teaching materials and techniques, The Mathnasium Methodé, to deliver a customized learning plan designed to address each student’s needs. This instructional approach goes beyond traditional math tutoring to develop an understanding and build a love for math.

If math is a problem, Mathnasium can solve it. Students will grow more excited and confident about math—and their grades will reflect that.

For students who already excel in math, the sky’s the limit. Mathnasium’s instructors will work to expand your child’s math skills. When learning math is made exciting, students will discover all the doors that will open by being proficient in math.

Students engage with their instructors in a unique combination of mental, verbal, visual, tactile, and written exercises. These do more than just meet state math standards; they surpass the recommendations of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Common Core State Standards.

Basic math concepts and skills are blended with a program specifically designed to help students build number sense. This special program shows them how and why the useful number rules they’re learning work so they are able to understand how they can be applied to interesting areas such as computer science, biology, and psychology.

Students are evaluated with a written and verbal assessment unique to Mathnasium. Based on the results, they develop a custom–tailored program designed to close any educational gaps they may have so they can jump ahead when they’re ready for advanced math challenges.

Mathnasium builds upon your child’s existing foundation and focuses on explaining why mathematical rules work so that children learn and understand the rules, not just memorize them.

Instructors also help students understand their homework as part of each session and prepare them for school tests, as well as standardized tests such as the California High School Exit Exam, SAT, ACT and ISEE.

By giving your child a firm foundation—and confidence—in math, Mathnasium can unlock the potential for continued educational success in the future.

Mathnasium
Dana Point 949.240.6284
Laguna Niguel 949.360.6284
San Clemente 949.481.6284
www.Mathnasium.com

Mission Basilica School embraces a rich heritage from its founding in 1928 as part of the Mission community founded by Saint Junipero Serra in 1776. The school honors Saint Serra’s mission by preparing every student for a life of leadership and Catholic values. The beautiful campus, uniquely located in the historic setting of the grounds of Mission San Juan Capistrano, has a student body of 250 in grades Pre–K to 8th. Mission Basilica School is a WCEA/WASC accredited, National Blue Ribbon School, staffed with highly skilled and credentialed teachers. Mission Basilica School continues to foster faith formation and academic excellence through its highly acclaimed programs.

FAITH

• Strong Catholic Identity
• Christ–Centered Learning
• Weekly Mass in the Basilica
• Ongoing Christian Service
• Spiritual Retreats

ACADEMICS

• Popular TK Program
• Accredited by the WCEA
• National Blue Ribbon School
• Rigorous Academic Curriculum
• Student–centered classrooms
• 1–to–1 iPads
• STEM Laboratories
• Fitness, Sports and Health Education
• Rich Fine Arts Program
• Spanish Language Program
• After School Clubs and Programs
• Extended Day Care

Mission Basilica School
31641 El Camino Real
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
949.234.1385 x2
www.MissionBasilicaSchool.org

New Vista School is unique in that it is the only Southern California school of its kind designed specifically for secondary and post–secondary school students with high functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). New Vista School provides a welcoming and supportive environment with teachers and other specialized staff members prepared to address the special needs that go along with an ASD diagnosis. Its programs maximize the personal achievement and independence of its students. The school offers small class sizes, research–based programs, and integrated learning environments.

Academics
The school is accredited by WASC and the California Department of Education as a nonpublic school that meets common core requirements. Over 70% of students score at or above national averages on standardized testing. There are opportunities for dual credit college courses in the upper grades and internships for employment during the transition years.

Social Skills
New Vista’s social skills program is integrated into every aspect of its students’ educational experience, with additional support to bridge the gap between high school and adult life.

Testimonials
“We are so grateful for the program… watching his growth in learning and improvement in his social skills has been heart–warming. You are true miracle workers!”

“You took a boy who was spiraling down further each year and turned him around. You gave him the joy and pride of learning, interacting with peers, being part of a school and a fuller life at home and in the community. Our young man is now a happy and successful student, hard worker, and enjoys a social life.”

Students enter New Vista School from a wide range of educational backgrounds including public, private and home–schooling programs. Students range in age from 11–18+ and have a primary diagnosis of high–functioning autism or Asperger Syndrome. New Vista’s school community is guided by the following values: Respect, Responsibility, Initiative, Problem Solving, and Resiliency. Through these care values, the school demonstrates care, support, and high expectations for its students.

Contact New Vista School at (949) 455–1270 to speak with the admissions director and schedule a tour. New students are welcome for the 2017–2018 academic year.

New Vista School
23092 Mill Creek Dr.
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
(949) 455-1270
www.NewVistaSchool.org