Author Archives: the local dish

Howard Optometry

Howard Optometry

MARSHA HOWARD, O.D.

Howard Optometry

The team at Howard Optometry strives to give their patients the best quality optometry services available. With their highly trained team of doctors and staff, they provide each patient with comprehensive eye evaluations in a warm and friendly environment.

Patients visiting Howard Optometry have access to advanced technology, including the latest in retinal imaging and dry eye treatments. Their retinal camera and Optovue OCT scanner takes just a few minutes and provides their doctors with powerful diagnostic data. In addition to checking retinal health and structures in the eye, their doctors not only find the best glasses or contact prescription, but also screen for dry eye, glaucoma, cataracts, and other eye issues. Patients visiting the office experience the highest level of care.

Howard Optometry is especially excited to have added Lumenis’ revolutionary Optilight and Optiplus technology to the practice. “It’s an amazing, gentle pulsating light treatment that has helped so many patients suffering from Dry Eye Disease,” explains Dr. Howard. “My patients with MGD (Meibomian Gland Dysfunction) have been thrilled with their treatments and results.” The new technology avoids lasers and delivers results in as little as four visits.

Dr. Marsha Howard grew up in a medical family, realizing her passion for eye care while studying as an undergraduate at UC Berkeley. In the years between finishing her residency in 1994 and opening her own practice in the Signal Hill Costco in 1997, Dr. Howard taught at her alma mater, as well as worked in other optometry and ophthalmology practices. One of the first independent Doctors of Optometry hired by Costco nationwide, Dr. Howard loves treating all types of patients, and was thrilled when offered a second office in Laguna Niguel.

Howard Optometry
27220 Heather Ridge
Laguna Niguel
949.328.9303
HowardOptometry.com

Howard Optometry

Hawkley Orthodontics

Hawkley Orthodontics

PEHRSON HAWKLEY, DDS

Hawkley Orthodontics

At Hawkley Orthodontics, every smile has a story—and they’re here to make it shine. Led by Dr. Pehrson Hawkley, DDS, a board-certified orthodontist, the practice is built around the idea that orthodontic care should be as unique as the people they serve.

No two patients are the same, which is why Dr. Hawkley takes the time to truly get to know each person who walks through the doors. From children getting their first set of braces to adults looking for clear aligners, every treatment plan is carefully customized to fit each patient’s needs, lifestyle and goals.

The practice proudly uses the latest technology to make treatment more precise, comfortable and efficient. From advanced digital imaging to modern braces and
aligner systems, their tools are designed to create amazing results while making the journey as smooth as possible.

Dr. Hawkley’s background includes years of specialized training at the University of Southern California and experience serving as an orthodontist in the United States Air Force. That combination of expertise, discipline and compassion shapes the way the practice cares for patients every day.

Located at 655 Camino De Los Mares, Suite 119 in San Clemente, the Hawkley Orthodontics office is a welcoming space where patients of all ages feel at ease. The team believes orthodontics isn’t just about straight teeth—it’s about building confidence and creating smiles that last a lifetime.

Those ready to discover a personalized, technology-driven approach to orthodontic care are invited to join the Hawkley Orthodontics family—where they’ll work together to make their best smile a reality.

Hawkley Orthodontics
655 Camino De Los Mares, #119
San Clemente
949.488.0600
HawkleyOrtho.com

Hawkley Orthodontics

Foudy Chiropractic

Foudy Chiropractic

MICHAEL FOUDY, DC

Foudy ChiropracticDr. Michael Foudy of Foudy Chiropractic in Mission Viejo has been caring for his patients and practicing chiropractic for 30 years. He was the team chiropractor for U.S. Women’s Soccer from 1996 to 2004, including their 1999 World Cup Championship. Foudy Chiropractic is a thriving family business, as Dr. Mike is joined by his wife, Melanie, who is a Clinical Exercise Physiologist with 36 years of expertise in Sports Medicine and Integrative Corrective Exercise.

“Our Mission is to provide the best chiropractic care to all in an ethical and professional environment,” states Dr. Mike. The practice emphasizes that chiropractic adjustments are a safe, natural, noninvasive procedure when administered by experienced, licensed chiropractors. Dr. Foudy was awarded as one of 2025’s “BEST Spinal Decompression Doctors” in America by the International Medical Advisory Board on Spinal Decompression.

SPINAL DECOMPRESSION AVOIDS SURGERY
Dr. Foudy is extremely excited with the results he is seeing from his new Spinal Decompression treatments. Many patients that would have had to endure surgery have opted for Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression. He offers second opinions for patients with MRIs considering back surgery. The modality effectively treats Spinal Stenosis, lower back pain and sciatica resulting from herniated or deteriorated discs. Spinal Decompression has been proven effective in relieving the pain associated with bulging discs, degenerative disc disease and even relapse or failed back surgery. Since its release, clinical studies have revealed an amazing success rate in treating lumbar disc related problems.

Patients rave about Dr. Foudy. Melissa N. commented, “I am very grateful for Dr. Foudy and his staff. I highly recommend Dr. Foudy to anyone that is suffering from pain. I am feeling better than I have in years.”

Dr. Foudy sees patients of all ages and uses a variety of techniques in his practice to ensure maximum results to relieve pain. In addition to chiropractic care and spinal decompression, the practice offers massage therapy, examination and diagnostic equipment, therapeutic modalities and integrative exercise. Foudy Chiropractic is freeway close at Avery Parkway and Marguerite by Capo Valley High School.

Foudy Chiropractic
28892 Marguerite Parkway #150
Mission Viejo
949.365.0403
Foudy-Chiropractic.com

Foudy Chiropractic

Advanced Dermatology

Advanced Dermatology

GENERAL • COSMETIC • SURGICAL

Advanced DermatologyWhere do doctors and their families in South Orange County turn for dermatology and cosmetic care? They choose Advanced Dermatology in Dana Point—its one and only location.

Experience
The board-certified dermatologists at Advanced Dermatology have been caring for South Orange County for more than 15 years. With over 45 years of combined clinical experience, the doctors have set the standard for excellence in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. Advanced Dermatology is widely regarded as the premier dermatology center in the region.

Team-Based Care
At Advanced Dermatology, patients don’t just get one provider—they get the expertise of the entire team. The practice includes two board-certified dermatologists and two certified physician assistants (PA-Cs) who specialize in dermatology. PA-Cs are highly trained and qualified to provide the same level of care as the doctors, and together, the team collaborates on diagnoses, develops customized treatment plans, and delivers the highest level of care.

Comprehensive Services
Advanced Dermatology cares for patients of all ages and offers complete medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. From skin cancer prevention and treatment to advanced aesthetic procedures, the team provides expert care for the health and beauty of skin, hair, and nails.

Cutting-Edge Technologies
The office incorporates the latest breakthroughs in dermatology and aesthetics. Advanced Dermatology offers advanced treatments such as Mohs surgery, Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (the same technology patients may recognize from GentleCure® ads), CoolSculpting,® Emsculpt Neo,® and Silhouette InstaLift® thread lifts. These state-of-the-art options allow for effective treatment of skin cancers and deliver dramatic cosmetic and body-contouring results— with minimal risk and downtime.

Compassionate Care, Convenient Location
From the moment patients call or walk in, they are met with warmth and professionalism. The staff is committed to making the experience comfortable and seamless. The office is located on Pacific Coast Highway in Dana Point, with easy access and ample parking. The reception team answers calls directly and patients are provided 24-hour emergency access to their dermatologist.

Advanced Dermatology in Dana Point
Trusted by physicians. Chosen by families. Here for you.

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

Advanced Dermatology

Serving Up Aloha

L&L Hawaiian

Serving Up Aloha

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue

by Dina Scaglione

If you’re craving a taste of the islands without leaving South Orange County, this local takeout gem delivers an authentic Hawaiian experience, straight from the heart of the Pacific. From smoky grilled meats to sweet and savory marinades and island-style sides, every bite feels like a mini escape to your own lanai.

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue recently opened its doors in San Clemente, offering a full menu of island-inspired favorites. Crowd-pleasers like Loco Moco, Kalua Pork and seafood platters transport taste buds to Oahu and beyond. The family-size combination plates are hearty and satisfying, perfect for sharing or stocking up on leftovers.

The BBQ Mix includes tender barbecue beef, fall-off-the-bone short ribs and juicy barbecue chicken. Seafood lovers can dive into the Seafood Combo, featuring fried fish, shrimp and a choice of barbecue beef, barbecue chicken, chicken katsu or barbecue ribs. For a more traditional Hawaiian meal, the Kalua Pork and Lau Lau dish blends smoky pulled pork, fish and steamed taro leaves for rich, earthy flavor.

All combo plates are served with scoops of creamy macaroni salad and fluffy white rice. Classic sides like Portuguese sausage and Spam musubi — warm rice wrapped in nori—add even more island flair.

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. for dine-in or takeout, L&L is an ideal weeknight solution for busy families or anyone craving something hearty, fast and flavorful. Whether you’re a transplant missing the taste of home or a newcomer eager to explore Polynesian cuisine, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue brings the islands to your plate—served with generous portions and the warm aloha spirit.

 

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue
622 Camino De Los Mares
San Clemente | (949) 503-1183

Dana Point Film Festival

Dana Point Film Festival

Dana Point Film Festival

Celebrating Oceans, Film and Community

The 3rd Annual Dana Point Film Festival (DPFF) returns October 9-12, 2025, to celebrate the beauty, wonder and importance of our oceans through the art of documentary filmmaking. Over four days, DPFF showcases films that promote education, conservation, preservation of marine environments, ocean sports and Surfing Films. DPFF is inspiring our audiences to become positive stewards of the sea.

This year’s 4-day festival features five internationally recognized feature documentaries, averaging sixty minutes each, along with twenty-eight compelling short films—including animated educational shorts and traditional documentaries from talented filmmakers around the world. The carefully curated selection highlights the critical issues facing our oceans and showcases stories of passion, science, conservation and adventure.

Family and Youth Engagement:
On Sunday, October 12 at 11 a.m., celebrate with kid-friendly programming at Craft House in Dana Point. Youth from The Boys and Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley will debut their own films, exploring fascinating topics such as Orcas, the Great Barrier Reef, wave science and extinct ocean species.

Festival Events & Highlights:

  • Thursday, October 9: A Special Opening Night Event begins with “Meet the Filmmakers” at the Craft House, featuring food, music, culture and community.
  • Friday, October 10: Opening Night Film & After Party screening at 6 p.m. in the “Film House,” at OC Sailing Club next to Baby Beach. Immediately after, join us at El Caminante Bar & Bungalows for lite bites, music and libations.
  • Saturday & Sunday: Film screenings run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with various films screening throughout the day.
  • Saturday Night VIP Party: Following the feature film, the Killer Dana party is at 7:30 p.m.— a VIP Experience is available!
  • Sunday, October 12: The festival concludes with a stunning sunset free screening of Jaws on Baby Beach at 6:30 p.m., offering a perfect end to the weekend.

Tickets:
Secure your tickets now in October at the discounted price of $10 by visiting DanaPointFilmFestival.org and using the promo code (DPFFinSept).

About DPFF:
The Dana Point Film Festival is a Stand Up to Trash, Non-Profit event produced by Tenacity Entertainment with support from our OC Supervisor Katrina Foley, the City of Dana Point, Local Art & Culture Ambassador Maria Elena Banks, business and community members who are ocean advocates dedicated to celebrating and protecting our oceans. Join us for a wonderful weekend of inspiring storytelling, community engagement, ocean awareness, conservation and good ole fun.

Adventure Van Expo

Adventure Van Expo

Adventure Van Expo

OCT 4 & 5, 2025

Outdoor enthusiasts and van life dreamers will gather in San Juan Capistrano for a weekend of creativity, community and camper conversions at the Adventure Van Expo, returning October 4–5 to the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park.

Hosted in partnership with the Rotary Club of San Juan Capistrano and Adventure Van Expo, this event isn’t your average auto show. Instead of vintage vehicles and car polish, expect a showcase of rolling homes— custom Mercedes Sprinters, 4×4 overland rigs, solar-powered campers and off-grid trailers built for real-world adventure.

“This show features more than 100 companies sharing products and ideas for the mobile lifestyle,” says Rotary member Tom Hoon. “You’ll see everything from professional van builders to weekend DIYers.”

Attendees can step inside completed builds, ask questions, and learn directly from the craftspeople behind these mobile masterpieces. Vendors will showcase solar installations, water systems, space-saving storage and gear tested by full-time travelers.

Workshops run throughout the weekend, covering solar basics, construction techniques and recommendations for road-tested gear. Beyond the tech, the event highlights community spirit—many attendees camp on site, turning the event into a hub of shared stories and inspiration.

Food trucks, live music and a festival-style vibe make it fun for families, adventurers and curious newcomers alike.

EVENT DETAILS:

• Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park 30753 Avenida La Pata, San Juan Capistrano

• October 4–5, 2025

• $15 Admission, $10 Dog Pass

SJCrotary.org

Adventure Van Expo

Whether you’re planning your next road trip or just love the spirit of van life, this weekend event offers a window into the art of traveling light—and living big.

San Clemente Home Tour

San Clemente Home Tour

San Clemente Home Tour

Volunteer-driven event brings community together to raise $150,000 for San Clemente public schools

On October 24, 2025, the San Clemente community will come together for the inaugural San Clemente Home Tour, a volunteer-led fundraising event showcasing some of the city’s most unique and inspiring homes. Tickets are on sale now at $120 per ticket.

Guests will enjoy a full day of discovery with tours of local homes, along with breakfast, lunch, a curated marketplace at the historic Casino and afterparty at Sonance Studio in San Clemente where there will be immersive audio experiences and tastings of local favorites. Proceeds from ticket sales directly benefit all 11 public schools in San Clemente, helping to close the funding gap and enrich the educational experience for thousands of students. The Home Tour’s ambitious fundraising goal is $150,000, making it one of the most impactful local school fundraising efforts to date.

“The San Clemente Home Tour was born out of parents and community members asking: What can we do together to better support our kids while building community?,” said Sharon Williams, President of the San Clemente Home Tour Committee. “This event is 100 percent volunteer-driven, community-built, and focused on ensuring San Clemente schools have the resources they need to thrive.”

Launched by a group of local moms in 2024, the San Clemente Home Tour operates as a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. In addition to ticket sales, organizers are seeking local business sponsors and community volunteers. Sponsorship opportunities include promotion on social media channels, and across event platforms.

Tickets are expected to sell out. Purchase yours today at www.SCHomeTour.org

EVENT DETAILS

• Date: October 24, 2025

• Location: San Clemente, CA

• Tickets: $120 regular pricing

• Website: www.schometour.org

DISCOUNT
Use LOCALDISH
for 20% Off Tickets

San Clemente Home Tour

Reata Glen

Reata Glen

Reata Glen

Expect More From Retirement

PEACE OF MIND AND A PLAN: WHY MORE SENIORS ARE CHOOSING REATA GLEN

When Gary and Lola Bingham started exploring retirement options, they weren’t just looking for a place to live; they were seeking peace of mind.

“We moved to California 15 years ago from Long Island,” said Gary. “We had no children, so we knew we had to look out for our future.”

The Binghams join a growing number of Baby Boomers seeking retirement options that provide a practical lifestyle. It’s no surprise that their research led them to Reata Glen, a Life Plan community in South Orange County that continues to earn recognition for Orange County Register readers as one of the area’s top retirement communities.

FINALLY — A PLAN THAT MAKES SENSE

For many Baby Boomers, aging in place sounds appealing in theory—until reality sets in. Rising in-home health care costs (now reaching nearly $300,000 annually, according to AARP), along with the unpredictability of long-term care needs, can cause stress for the entire family.

Reata Glen’s Life Plan model offers a smart option. With a repayable entrance fee and predictable monthly costs, residents gain priority access to the adjacent health center for assisted living, memory care, and long-term care in a skilled nursing center, if ever needed—creating real peace of mind for residents and their families.

“One of the things that drew us to Reata Glen was the health care center,” Gary said. “We’re independent now, but over time, if we ever need more assistance, it’s nearby. And if one of us needs to go there, it’s just a 10-minute walk for the other to visit.”

A LIFESTYLE THAT INSPIRES

While the future is thoughtfully planned for, it’s the day-to-day moments that truly stand out.

With 60 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, Reata Glen offers something for all residents—walking trails, an aquatics and fitness center, an art studio, a cinema, and even a brand-new indoor golf simulator.

Gary and Lola are regulars at the Wine Tasting Club and enjoy the abundant social, educational, fitness, and travel groups— connecting with other residents who share their interests and are retired in theory but with no plans of slowing down.

“I spend a lot of time on the simulator committee,” Gary shared. “It’s easy to stay busy here and find others who share your interests.”

“I find myself telling friends, ‘I gotta go do this,’ or ‘I have plans with that,’” Lola said. “They tell you when you move in, you’ll stay busy. And that’s what we wanted.”

EXPERIENCE AN AWARD-WINNING COMMUNITY

The true luxury of Reata Glen isn’t just the amenities—it’s the freedom. No home maintenance. No yard work. No stress. Just time to enjoy what matters most in a welcoming community.

Reata Glen is proud to continue earning recognition as one of Orange County’s best places to retire.

To celebrate, the community invites guests to stop by and enjoy an exclusive Best of OC Celebration Box—packed with local goodies and special Reata Glen gifts. Available only for a limited time and while supplies last to guests who visit in September or October, it’s Reata Glen’s way of saying thank you.

For more information or to schedule a visit, call 949-696-6481. The team at Reata Glen looks forward to welcoming visitors and sending them home with something special.

 

Reata Glen
2 Las Estrellas Loop
Rancho Mission Viejo
949-696-6481
ReataGlen.com

The Winston’s Club

The Winston’s Club

The Winston’s Club

Simply The Best

In 2005, Rick Collins (The Guv’nor), an admirer of fine cigars and single malts, began considering the idea of opening a cigar lounge and bar. Nearly twenty years later in 2023, Rick traveled to his home city, London UK, to visit the 10 best cigar lounges. He returned with two key ideas. The first is that there is no reason that a cigar lounge and bar cannot have the most amazing client services. The second is that cigar lounges were all stuck in the past — dark interiors, brown furniture and the obligatory Scarface & Clint Eastwood artwork.

Fast forward to June 2025, when Rick and his partner Deb proudly opened Winston’s Cigar Lounge and Sports Bar in San Juan Capistrano. Winston’s offers an elevated experience for cigar afficionados, as well as enjoyers of fine whiskey’s, bourbons, and amazing craft cocktails. Complete with a Wine Club, cigar events, whiskey/tequila tastings, weekend music and enough TVs to show every game, Winston’s expects to become a beloved destination here in South OC.

Winston’s luxurious bar is smoke-free for those who do not partake in cigars. It has the look and feel of a 5-Star Hotel lounge. A large cigar humidor and wine retail center will cater to locals who need to add to their collections with well-priced selections. A large VIP room is available for special events and parties, and a cigar room complete with lockers and creature comforts is dedicated for our VIP member smokers.

Rick and Deb have the passion and drive to ensure Winston’s success for years to come. Winston’s is located in San Juan Capistrano, off the 5 freeway at Ortega Highway (Route 74) near 24 Hour Fitness. Cigar lovers rejoice. Drop by Winston’s and learn how you can become a member of their beautiful new club.

 

The Winston’s Club
27129 Calle Arroyo #1803
San Juan Capistrano
(949) 503-2469 | TheWinstonsClub.com