Acting Academy for Kids

It’s Time to Watch Your Stars Shine!

by Veronica Badzey

True to the world of theater, Acting Academy for Kids’s past year has been filled with both heartache and joy. Since 2008, Stephen and Maggie Zygo have operated their professional acting and film school out of the Camino Real Playhouse in San Juan Capistrano, but last year received word that the venue would soon be closing its doors. The news came on top of a diagnosis of Stage 3 cancer for Maggie the same day their 2nd son was born. With so much on their plates, the fate of the beloved acting school seemed uncertain. Despite these many challenges, Stephen and Maggie have emerged stronger than ever, ready for a progressive 2017 full of new beginnings. 

“We’ve been doing our best to manage all of this change,” says Stephen. “It’s been a unique juggling act. As a leader in the performing arts community for kids and teens, we’re committed to maintaining our reputation of excellence and are excited about the next chapter,” he enthuses.

March 31st will see the Acting Academy’s last classes taught at the Camino Real Playhouse, but instead of a final curtain call, the impending closure ushers in a new era. Maggie and Stephen have found a new “forever” home at a fantastic location in San Clemente close to Avenida Pico and the 5 Freeway inside the Holiday Inn Express.

Designed in grand 1920’s Hollywood style, the spacious building is in the process of being converted into a fully functional theater, complete with a TV/film studio, recording studio, concession area, dressing rooms, a costume shop and rehearsal rooms. Registration is already open for Spring Session, and classes begin April 10th at the new “Z Playhouse.” The school has also filed for non-profit status and is actively seeking donations to help defray build-out costs. 

Stephen and Maggie have also joined forces with Community Roots Academy in Laguna Niguel, which recently invested substantial resources in new technology and infrastructure for its facility. Community Root’s 400-seat theater offers an ideal setting for the Acting Academy’s spring musical theater production of Beauty and the Beast, as well as the school’s popular Performing Arts Summer Camps, which start the first week of June. These week-long classes for kids, ages 4-13, feature fun themes like Hawaiian Moana, Harry Potter, and Beauty and the Beast, and will be held at Z Playhouse, Community Roots, and the Acting Academy’s newest location — OC Music and Dance in Irvine.

Started by Charlie Zhang, CEO and founder of Pick Up Stix, OC Music and Dance is Orange County’s only non-profit community music school. It hosts several professional music, dance, and theater groups, including the Pacific Symphony, of which Mr. Zhang is the top donor.  Acting Academy for Kids was handpicked to represent the dramatic arts department at this dynamic new school, and will be providing classes in musical theater, TV, and film.

The film school at Acting Academy for Kids has grown from its modest beginnings into an 18-week conservatory program, complete with its own website – AA4Kstudios.com. The curriculum includes 36 hours of instruction, a mid-term report for each student, experience in crewing a film, and the opportunity for students to act in their own short films. Each film premieres at a Red Carpet Gala at San Juan Capistrano’s Regency Theater where students see themselves on the silver screen! Students receive reels of their work, professional IMDb (Internet Movie Database) credit, and the opportunity to work with professionals in the industry to gain a well-rounded experience as TV/film actors.

Despite all the struggles of the past year, Acting Academy for Kids has only grown stronger, and is more deeply committed to its mission than ever. “This year has given us an amazing opportunity to change a lot of young kids’ lives,” explains Stephen. “Our vision is to launch all three of these locations, with education still being the heart of what we do . . . teaching kids the arts through learning and having fun at the same time.”

Acting Academy for Kids    |    Ages 4-17    |    ActingAcademyForKids.com    |    949.427.0072

Sabroso Craft Beer, Taco & Music Festival

Gringo Bandito Chronic Tacos Challenge

On Saturday, April 8, KLOS presents the 4th Annual Sabroso Craft Beer, Taco & Music Festival at Doheny State Beach in Dana Point. Besides headlining the event with his band The Offspring, lead singer Dexter Holland has created a line of Gringo Bandito hot  sauces which will kick up the heat during an amazing taco eating competition sponsored by Chronic Tacos. The highly acclaimed professional taco eating contest will bring in 10 professional eaters from around the world, including world-champion eater Takeru Kobayashi from Japan. The professionals will be vying for cash prizes and the distinguished title as champion of the 7th Annual Gringo Bandito Chronic Tacos Challenge. Kobayashi holds eight Guinness Records for competitive eating and will be defending his record from 2015, when he succeeded in devouring 144 tacos in 10 minutes. If you’d like to test your own taco eating skills, an amateur competition will be open to 8 lucky contestants at the festival.

In addition to Chronic Taco’s eating contest, attendees will enjoy unlimited craft beer sampling, gourmet tacos, spirited games and engaging attractions, including the crowd-favorite lucha libre Mexican wrestling matches. 

Sabroso’s musical lineup is impressive with Orange County-based, multi-platinum rock band The Offspring, along with Sum 41, Rival Sons, Lit, Unwritten Law, and the world’s first and only heavy metal mariachi band, Metalachi, as well as roving performances by local mariachi bands.

Festival General Admission Tickets start at $60, and VIP Lounge + Early Entry Tickets are $99. Day-of Festival General Admission Tickets (if available) will be $75 each.

For the most up-to-date information on the Sabroso Craft Beer, Taco & Music Festival, please visit sabrosotacofest.com.

PANHE

A Native American Gathering 

A Celebration of Protection & Preservation

11^th Anniversary Event
San Mateo Campground at San Onofre State Beach
Sunday, March 26, 2016, 10 am – 4 pm

The San Onofre Parks Foundation (SOPF), whose mission is to support education and interpretive efforts of California State Parks at San Clemente and San Onofre State Beaches, is presenting the 11^th annual Panhe – A Celebrtation of Protection & Preservation. Panhe is the 9,000 year old historic village of the Acjahmen/Juaeno people and continues to be a sacred and ceremonial site.

EVENT INFORMATION:

• Panhe 2017 – A Celebration of Protection & Preservation, FREE ADMISSION
  • Featuring Native American: Singers, Dancers, Flute Circle, Food, Basketry Demonstrations, Speakers, Artisans, Plant Demonstrations, Vendors, Museum Exhibits, and more!

Panhe 2017 Event Location

• San Mateo Campground, at San Onofre State Beach, San Clemente, California
• FREE Parking and round-trip shuttle throughout the day departing from: Concordia Elementary School, 3120 Avenida del Presidente, San Clemente, CA 92672

Event sponsored by United Coalition to Protect Panhe and The San Onofre Parks Foundation. In partnership with California State Parks.

For a complete event schedule, additional information, membership and volunteer opportunities please visit: www.SanOFoundation.org, or call 949-366-8599

ABOUT SAN ONOFRE PARKS FOUNDATION:

The San Onofre Parks Foundation (SOPF) is a California non-profit, charitable corporation, whose mission is to provide education, protection, and preservation for the California State Parks at San Onofre and San Clemente State Beaches. As a public liaison to these parklands, the San Onofre Foundation will foster a comprehensive stewardship of this unique recreational resource, with its historically important sites and environmentally significant setting.

Barre3

Goodbye Limits. Hello Results.

by Veronica Badzey

If you’re looking for an exceptional workout in Orange County that is unintimidating and yet delivers visible results, then you’re overdue for a class at Barre3. Known for its philosophy of balancing mind and body, the classes combine the three disciplines of ballet, yoga, and Pilates to energize, strengthen muscles and improve flexibility. Far more than a gym, Barre3 is a community where people from all walks of life come to get fit, make connections and develop lasting friendships.

Co-owners Jessica Leonard and Nicki Insley opened their Laguna Niguel studio three years ago, adding a second location in San Clemente last year. Part of the national Barre3 network, both locations offer bright, clean workout rooms, a friendly staff, and a childcare center so that parents can attend a class even with kids in tow. The San Clemente studio has a soothing view of the ocean, enjoyed by participants as they cool down at the end of one of Barre3’s heart-pumping workouts.

Sadie Lincoln, a former executive for 24 Hour Fitness with 20 years of experience in the industry, developed Barre3 for those who were burned out on the traditional, hard core approach to exercise. With more than 100 locations across the country, Barre3’s growth can be attributed to an effective workout that generates proven results while being gentle on the body. Sixty minutes from start to finish, a typical Barre3 class is an intense, full body workout that builds strength, flexibility, and stamina, through a series of mindful, low-impact exercises designed to create long, lean muscles, a strong core and optimal postural alignment. The ultimate goal is to have you feeling strong and balanced – inside and out.

“I’m constantly humbled by it,” says Nicki, “It’s a crazy hard workout, and yet it’s kind on the body at the same time.” Self-proclaimed “gym rats,” Jessica and Nicki are no strangers to the fitness world. “I used to push through injury all the time,” Nicki explains, “I would beat my body up in the gym every day, then go home drained, exhausted, and feeling bad about myself.”

Jessica first found Barre3 through the company’s online workouts, one of the largest and most popular online platforms in the industry. Hundreds of workouts are available for streaming from an online video library, with weekly updates from instructors, master teachers, and studio owners across the country. The online community is also a valuable resource for recipes and motivational tools that help achieve a balanced, healthy lifestyle.

Barre3 takes its name from its innovative three-part formula: 1) The Hold – firing muscles through correct body alignment; 2) Move Small – bringing muscles to the point of fatigue and integrating the core; and 3) Move Big – large range movements that flush the body and increase heart rate. Most Barre-style workouts don’t include Step 3, which increases “functional strength” by mimicking movements used in daily life. This multi-layered approach produces stellar results in a remarkably short time; most clients who attend class consistently experience a positive change in as little as two weeks.

Instructors encourage modifications to the workout, providing personalized solutions for each client so they can achieve the ultimate burn, no matter their current fitness level. “You meet yourself where you are that day,” says Jessica. “We have people come in who have never worked out a day in their lives, and next to them is a 22-year-old marathon runner, and it is challenging for both of them.” Barre3 offers pre-natal and post-natal workouts, and often works with clients who are post-chemotherapy, post-cancer, or recovering from injuries or accidents.

The benefits of the method go far beyond the physical rewards of weight loss, increased muscle tone, and improved posture. “People walk out the door with so much energy,” Nicki enthuses, “ready to conquer their day. It creates a ripple effect that extends into the rest of their lives.”

Now is a great time to start. Barre3’s $99 new client special gives you unlimited classes for a month. For a smaller class sampling, the 3 for $40 deal offers an enticing incentive
to get moving. So what are you waiting for?

For more info, visit barre3.com.
23882 Aliso Creek Rd, Laguna Niguel  |   949.328.9633
638 Camino De Los Mares, San Clemente  |  949.429.1738

Carlos Mexican Restaurant & Cantina

by Dina Scaglione

With south OC located so close to the border, Mexican restaurants aren’t exactly in short supply in these parts. Already have your favorite go-to Mexican place? Well, it’s time to break out of your routine, because few come close to the homemade taste, quality food, and affordable prices found at Carlos Mexican Restaurant & Cantina.

Well-situated on Pacific Coast Highway in Dana Point’s Lantern District, Carlos’s is a comfortable, casual eatery that will cure your hankering for authentic Mexican fare. As soon as you enter through the expansive outdoor patio, you’re immediately greeted by a welcoming fire pit and a salivating blend of sweet onions, roasted peppers and chili spices.

The restaurant’s vast menu overflows with both contemporary combo plates as well as more traditional dishes like Menudo and Pozole. Be forewarned; once you start in on the chips with addictive house-made salsa and creamy guacamole, you won’t be able to stop! Seafood fans will definitely want to dive into the Camarones al Mojo de Ajo featuring delicate shrimp sautéed in a flavorful garlic butter sauce — served with rice and beans. The savory chunks of chili-spiced lean pork in Carlos’s Chile Verde Enchiladas will literally melt-in-your-mouth. The Nopailitos con Carne de Puerco combines slow-roasted bites of pork with tender seasoned cactus, a taste sensation that must be experienced to be truly appreciated. The shredded beef flautas are also a popular favorite — tender, flaky and seasoned to perfection.

Carlos first opened this spot as a small coffee shop back in the early 70’s when Dana Point was a burgeoning area, as a way to offer respite for busy contractors and harbor residents. A hearty Mexican style breakfast was soon added, including a deliciously filling Huevos Rancheros. It wasn’t long before Carlos expanded operations with a complete breakfast, lunch and dinner menu, as it remains to this very day.

Enjoy Carlos’s 7 days a week from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and for Happy Hour from 3 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Mid-week specials include Taco Tuesdays, offering tacos from a mere $1.25 each; and Lobster Wednesdays from 4 to 9 p.m., for grilled and garlic butter-basted lobsters. On Sundays, a local guitarist creates mood-lifting background music to help ease you into the looming work week ahead.

Carlos Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
34224 Pacific Coast Hwy  |  Dana Point  |  (949) 496-4470
CarlosCantinaDP.com

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Wildflowers Bloom on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks

Experience 24 Hours of Wildflowers Online March 21 and See What’s Blooming Where

Orange County, Calif. (March 1, 2017) – Irvine Ranch Conservancy and OC Parks invite the community to enjoy the sights and smells of wildflowers on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks by registering for a free public program. Nature lovers can also explore the blooming lands through a virtual wildflower tour on Tuesday, March 21 beginning at 6 a.m. 

Heavy rains led to an early wildflower season this year, and many of the Landmarks are in full bloom ahead of spring. Limestone Canyon is sprouting with common wildflowers including arroyo lupine (Lupinus succulentus) and Mariposa lilies (Calochortus). Visitors to Black Star Canyon can spot California lilacs (Ceanothus) and bright yellow fiddlenecks (Amsinckia). In the City of Irvine, trekkers enjoying the Turtle Ridge Trail in Bommer Canyon can spot elusive shooting stars (Dodecatheon meadia) and visitors to Orchard Hills can admire vibrant blue hyacinths.

In celebration of wildflower season, Irvine Ranch Conservancy is launching their 2^nd annual “3…2…1…Bloom: 24 Hours of Wildflowers” virtual tour. The tour will include 24 hours of wildflowers and feature a photo of a different bloom posted every hour to the Landmarks’ Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages. Each post will include a picture of a native wildflower, information on the species, and links to programs on the Landmarks where you can see these flowers firsthand. Join the virtual tour by “liking” the Landmarks’ Facebook page at Facebook.com/irlandmarks, following us on Twitter (@IRLandmarks), or adding us on Instagram (@OCMountainstoSea).

OC Parks, City of Irvine, and City of Newport Beach and Irvine Ranch Conservancy offer a variety of programs where visitors can appreciate wildflowers in bloom while connecting with the land. Whether registering for a docent-led activity or exploring the open spaces during self-guided access, wildflower season is waiting for you in the great outdoors. Click the programs below to register for a free program and enjoy the many blooms of the season.

• Wildflower Showcase on Sat. 3/4 kicks off at 10 a.m. and welcomes outdoor enthusiasts of all ages to admire Orange County native wildflowers in bloom. Visit the Native Seed Farm and learn about 45 different local plant species grown onsite while enjoying the views of the land. Pack a picnic lunch and join a guided walking tour.
• Tuesday Morning Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road on Tues. 3/7 travels through OC Parks’ Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, which is currently sprouting with wildflowers! This weekly fitness hike helps you connect with nature while finding fresh air and exercise on the Landmarks.
• MidWeek Hike: Quail Hill on Weds. 3/8 is a great way to take a break and spot blooms in the City of Irvine’s Quail Hill. Enjoy views and quiet time in Irvine’s beautiful Southern Preserve, and be sure bring plenty of water for this 10 – 12 mile hike.
• The Natural History of Baker Canyon on Sun., 3/19 welcomes nature lovers to enjoy views of the Santa Ana Mountains as well as the wildflowers and plants of oak-shaded Baker Canyon. Travel along a 3.5-mile hike and learn about the local habitat.
• Dig In! Plant With Us at the Native Seed Farm is a reoccurring stewardship program always looking for volunteers to harvest seeds from native spring wildflowers. Take in the sights of the 14-acre farm and help the Landmarks by harvesting seeds from local wildflowers. All tools and training are provided, and nature lovers age 8 and older are welcome.
• Buck Gully Reserve in Newport Beach is open daily from dawn to dusk, where it’s common to see bush sunflower (Encelia californica) in bloom along the trails.
• Bommer Canyon is also open for self-guided access on designated trails, where sticky monkeyflower (Mimulus aurantiacus) and popcorn flower (Cryptantha intermedia) have been known to sprout.

Irvine Ranch Conservancy offers a full calendar of spring activities and free, guided programs that include hiking, mountain bike rides, horseback riding, habitat restoration and special events for nature enthusiasts of all ages and fitness skill levels. Visit http://LetsGoOutside.org for more information and to register for free today.

Gary Jolliff Insurance Services

Protecting What Matters Most

by Veronica Badzey

If you’ve ever had to shop for a new insurance policy, then you know it can be an overwhelming experience. Gary Jolliff and his team in Laguna Beach are committed to making these difficult decisions stress-free, while providing every client with the peace of mind of knowing that they’re covered when they need it most. 

Gary has been providing consistent, quality insurance services to clients throughout California for over 25 years. Last year, he received Allstate’s prestigious Best in Company award, designating him the #1 insurance advisor in the country…quite an accomplishment when you consider the tens of thousands of agents that are affiliated with the company. He has also been a member of the Allstate Hall of Fame, the Circle of Champions, the Allstate Leader’s Forum, the Inner Circle Elite, and has received the National Conference Award and the Honor Ring for the last 12 and 14 years, respectively. 

Although Gary has the ability to shop many different companies as an independent broker, he and his agents ultimately insure about 80% of their clients with Allstate. “They have a history of paying claims,” Gary says of the well-respected company, “with superior customer service you can depend on. Every customer receives a direct line to a dedicated insurance advisor, so you won’t waste hours on the phone wading through endless phone prompts, or struggling to do it yourself online.”

Employing a “service matters” motto, Gary puts his customers first in every business dealing, and has worked hard over the years to build an office known for its professionalism, personalized customer service, and knowledgeable staff. “This is our home away from home,” says Sandra, an insurance advisor on Gary’s team, “Our clients are like family to us.” Every one of the office’s six advisors is dedicated to providing outstanding customer service. Going above and beyond, making themselves available 24/7 by providing cell numbers to clients is standard practice among the team.

Gary’s agency offers a wide range of insurance services, including home, condo, auto, motorcycle, life, business, flood, and renter’s insurance, as well as mortgage pay-off, loss of income, and personal policies. William, the office’s financial advisor, provides expertise in the areas of investments, annuities, legacies, and retirement products. When shopping for a new insurance or financial package, Gary recognizes that staying within a budget is often a concern. “Money is important,” he says, “but getting the correct coverage is even more important.” As a result, Gary and his staff go out of their way to educate their clientele about the specifics of a policy, making certain they understand exactly what they’re purchasing. 

Yet what makes Gary exceptional isn’t just his 30 years of experience as an agent, or his insistence on concierge-level service. Clients also benefit from his relationships with specialty companies who serve niche markets. Gary recently insured four new luxury homes in the Strand beachfront community of Dana Point. This particular insurance company guarantees to rebuild your home, which is virtually unheard of in the insurance business. “I have the ability to broker to companies that do things that are out of this world,” says Gary, “which most other agencies aren’t able to do. Customers can get things here that they can’t get anywhere else.”

Along with an exemplary work ethic and a unique breadth of product offerings, Gary brings a special brand of integrity to his profession. “This job is all about helping protect people’s lives,” he says, “protecting the things that matter most. It’s very gratifying and rewarding to be able to serve in that way. That’s our purpose in life…to be here to help somebody. And we get to do that all day long.”

Gary lives in San Juan Capistrano with his wife Eileen, who is also an insurance advisor, and their four children. Their office is located at 1475 Glenneyre Street, Laguna Beach, in the Hobbit Center, across the street from the Surf and Sand Hotel.

1475 Glenneyre St, Laguna Beach
Mobile: (949) 798-9269
Office: (949) 497-1861

19 Sports Bar & Grill

by Dina Scaglione

Football and fried wings are ubiquitous in south OC sports this time of year, where folks gather to cheer on their favorite uniformed team and craft beer is consumed like water. Then there’s 19 Sports Bar & Grill at the San Juan Hills Golf Club, reminding us why we are drawn to the infectious energy, experienced only at a local pub.

19 Sports Bar & Grill is a lively, upscale tavern, where spent golfers and spirited sport fans come to find camaraderie and delicious fare, after a long day, either at the office or on the course. A local hidden gem, recently updated with river-rock textured walls and glass framed jerseys, 19 Sports Bar & Grill serves up spectacular views of lush green fairways and savory comfort foods, a varied selection of craft beer and hand-crafted cocktails daily. Happy Hour specials are also offered from 5 to 7:30 p.m., 7 days a week. Whether you saddle up to the bar or perch yourself at a high-top table, every seat offers an unobstructed view of your favorite sport.

Tired of the same old greasy bar food offered at many watering holes? Then you will delight noshing on the hearty cuisine from the expansive menu, including some unique twists on our old favorites. Yes, they still have your kidult faves like stone fired pizzas, loaded nachos and chicken wings. But wait until you experience the homemade meatloaf sliders — classic chili topped with cheese and onions (talk about comfort food) and mouth-watering, build-your-own burgers.

Still watching the NFL Sports package in your living room (boooring)? Why not enjoy it on 25 flat-screens along with your favorite pint, offered all day on Sundays. And for those who favor a little toe tapping with their libations, live entertainment is also featured Friday evenings from 7 to 10 p.m.

Whether it’s a night out with friends or dinner with the family, there’s a little something for everyone at 19 Sports Bar & Grill, including great tasting food, drinks for every thirst and inspiring views, all served up in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

19 Sports Bar & Grill is located at 32120 San Juan Creek Road in San Juan Capistrano. Visit www.19SportsBar.com for more info.

Babychella Family Art & Music Festival 

Mason Regional Park March 12

(Irvine, Calif.) – The County of Orange and OC Parks are pleased to welcome the inaugural Babychella Family Art & Music Festival at Mason Regional Park in Irvine on Sunday, March 12 from 12 – 4 p.m. This free, family-friendly event invites parents and children to enjoy entertainment and activities in the park’s picturesque springtime setting.

Babychella Family Art & Music Festival will offer a variety of engaging activities for children including story time, face painting, and an interactive bubble village. Find a spot on the grass near the main stage and enjoy beloved songs and fun-filled sing-alongs fit for the whole family.

Participate in mommy, daddy and me yoga, pose for pictures in themed photo booths, and take part in various hands-on arts and crafts. Discover the newest trends from popular baby brands on-site and hear from family-oriented educational speakers. A kids’ costume contest will award a $200 gift card for the best bohemian festival style.

Eats from local food trucks will be available for purchase. Bringing blankets and lawn chairs is recommended. Restrooms and baby changing areas will be available. Activities planned are perfect for children five years and under, but enjoyable for all ages. The festival will take place rain or shine.

Presented by OC Parks and produced by Hampton Productions. For more information visit www.Babychella.com.

March 12 – Babychella Family Arts & Music Festival
12 – 4 p.m.
Event Cost: FREE
Parking: FREE
Location: William R. Mason Regional Park
18712 University Drive Irvine, CA 92612
Website: www.Babychella.com
Contact: (949) 923-2220