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Jan 01

2016 Tournament of Roses Parade
Where: Pasadena, CA
Time: All day
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ReelTime Sight & Sound

If you have a family full of hard-to-please people… you’re in luck! ReelTime Sight & Sound has your family-centric holiday fun and entertainment needs 100% covered.

San Juan Capistrano’s destination for all things home entertainment is more than just an electronics store. ReelTime Sight & Sounds’s design consultants customize solutions for each and every client—from conference rooms and whole-home automation to networking to security to speaker systems. The 17,000-square foot showroom of live equipment is packed with the very latest in audio, video, security and integration technologies that customers can touch, try out and compare.

ReelTime specializes in both innovation and exceptional customer service. Each installation, no matter how simple or elaborate, is assigned a project manager to oversee all elements of the transaction. Those elements might even include fabrication of custom-built cabinetry, multiple site visits and consultation with a client’s architect, interior designer or general contractor. The engineering team ensures the seamless integration of components into a fully functioning system—resulting in user-friendly technology that’s easy and fun to operate.

One of the most exciting aspects of living in this time of lightning-fast technological advancements is the way our lives can be simplified with a tiny device. With a world of music and video available at the click of a button, we can learn, grow, be entertained and experience other cultures from the comfort of the sofa. A perfect example of this life hack is the Sonos line of wireless HiFi products.

One Sonos Play “smart speaker” can take the form of your iPod, CD player, amplifier and computer. It provides access to music from all your devices as well as streaming services like iTunes, Rhapsody, Sirius, Pandora, Spotify and thousands of radio stations. The source and volume can be controlled through an app on your smart phone… the ultimate in simple, pure design. The proof is in the sound quality, however; one little Sonos speaker will fill an entire room with clear, rich, layered, “immersive” sound.

Sonos can also be used as an adjunct to existing components or to create customized, networked programming that starts with equipment you already own. For example, if you have an amp and speakers, you can add the Sonos Connect to create a HiFi system that plays music from literally every source in the world.

The Sonos home theater components combine to give the listener a full surround-sound experience for music, movies, video gaming and TV. This combination starts with the Playbar, a nine-speaker wireless “soundbar,” and adds two Play speakers for stereo effect and one Sub wireless subwoofer. The Playbar also works as an independent player for wireless music streaming. The only electrical requirement for all this is a single wall outlet!

Custom networking options from Sonos are endless. You can add to your existing system or start from scratch here, too. With speakers in multiple rooms or zones, you can choose multiple music selections throughout the house. Rooms can be grouped together to play music from the same source, or each zone can be controlled separately. You might have a podcast streaming through your home office while classical music plays in the kitchen and Nickelodeon entertains the kids in the backyard.

ReelTime’s General Manager, Jon Colburn, describes the Sonos line as “super sleek and easy to use.” “The level of quality and amount of content we can get from this $199 speaker is just amazing,” says Jon, “Sonos is definitely the best all-around wireless system for the investment.”

If you’re considering a staycation for the holidays or your gearing up for the Super Bowl, ask one of ReelTime’s design consultants about the expansive variety of options for your home entertainment needs. Stop by the store for a look at the latest technologies and to ring in the season with new sights and sounds.

SANTA’S VILLAGE BY THE SEA – SAN CLEMENTE
December 5th, from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
The City of San Clemente and Casa Romantica brings you a full day of activities, treats and music! The day begins at the San Clemente Community Center with games, cookie decorating, face paint and a tree lighting at 5:15pm. The fun doesn’t stop there, stroll down the lane to Casa Romantica for cookies, hot chocolate, and more holiday cheer! Click here for more information.

Your Guide to South OC’s Holiday Happenings

Want to hang out with Santa this holiday season? We’ve got the DISH on where you’ll find him in South Orange County.
Take a peek at these events for some face time with Mr. Claus and his South Pole posse!

Dana Point
Cold Chillin’
The City’s annual Winter Festival and Tree Lighting returns to La Plaza Park on Saturday, December 5th. The afternoon’s events begin at noon and run until the Boat Parade at 7 p.m. This free day of fun kicks off with a white hill of the real deal – SNOW! Get there early so the little ones can slide down the hill and capture some winter magic. The festival includes a craft fair, face painting, reindeer, a petting zoo, pony rides, cookie decorating, storytelling, carolers, jazz musicians, dancers and delicious eats. The Santa Claus will be screened with complimentary popcorn immediately following the hot-chocolate-and-cookie-accompanied tree lighting at 5:15 p.m. Please remember to bring an unwrapped, new toy for the OC Spark of Love Toy Drive.

Out Of Sight
A Galactic Holiday is the theme for the 41st annual Dana Point Boat Parade. This season’s event will take place on two consecutive weekends, December 11th and 12th and December 18th and 19th at 7:30 p.m. Whether you’re riding on a boat or viewing the festivities fromthe shore, the “Out of this World” light-filled extravaganza is a must-do holiday happening. Make reservations early at your favorite waterside eatery for a warm and comfy spot.

Have A Ball
Grab the pooch and ring in the holidays at two doggy events this season. The 3rd Annual Santa Paws event will take place at the El Torito Courtyard in Dana Point Harbor on Saturday, December 5th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. With a small donation, you’ll receive a photo of your four-legged friend with Santa himself. Hosted by the Pet Project Foundation, proceeds benefit the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter.

On Sunday, December 6th from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., the furry fun continues at Yappy Howl-idays on the Dana Lawn at The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel. Guests are asked to bring unopened canned or dry dog food, treats or dog toys to be donated to a local animal shelter.

Don’t Rock The Boat
Take a 20-minute cruise around the harbor on a Boat Ride with Santa and his helpers. On December 5th and 6th from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saint Nick will be on board spreading holiday cheer and taking note of your little one’s holiday wishes. For a $3 donation, the El Camino Real Junior Woman’s Club will happily capture the moment with a keepsake photo. Santa and crew will launch from the Dana Wharf Sportfishing docks. For more information, visit DanaPointHarbor.com.

A Storied Tradition
Holiday Storytelling returns to The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel this December 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 18th and 19th. The Eco-Adventure Center will host classic tales to be read aloud at 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Donations of a new children’s book, to benefit Miracles for Kids, are appreciated.

San Clemente
Baking Memories
On Saturday, December 5th, bring the family out to visit Santa’s Village by the Sea in downtown San Clemente. Starting at 2 p.m. at the Community Center, Mrs. Claus’ Bakery will host cookie decorating for the kids and a showing of Arthur Christmas with popcorn for all. The fun includes face painting, games, a snow hill and a chance to visit with the jolly old fellow. The afternoon culminates at 5:15 p.m. with the lighting of the community tree.

Mi Casa Es Santa’s Casa
Immediately following the Santa’s Village by the Sea event on December 5th, stroll down Avenida del Mar to Christmas at the Casa from 5 to 7 p.m. Santa, Dickens carolers, hot chocolate, cookies, kid’s crafts and holiday entertainment will make for a festive night at the beautifully decorated Casa Romantica. Admission is free. To learn more, visit CasaRomantica.org.

The Giving Tree
The Angel Tree Gift Exchange, sponsored by the San Clemente Jr. Women’s Club, benefits local children, adults and seniors in need this holiday season. Open your hearts and wallets and pick up an Angel Tree Tag at the San Clemente Community Center starting Monday, December 1st. Return your wrapped gift by December 11th to brighten someone’s holiday.

Santa And His Lil’ Elves
The San Clemente Playschool is decking the halls with a morning of holiday cheer and excitement on Friday, December 11th at the San Clemente Community Center. Santa’s elves are looking for help from your little ones to create crafts and play games together. Children will sing holiday songs, enjoy special guest appearances from Santa’s helpers, make gifts for family and friends, decorate holiday cookies and much more. The workshop will be hopping from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and is open to children ages 3 to 5 years old. Pre-registration is recommended, as space is limited. Visit
San-Clemente.org/recreation to sign up today!

Food For Thought
The 7th Annual Adopt-A-Marine Holiday Dinner for service members stationed at Camp Pendleton takes place at 7 p.m. on December 13th. The Watershed Task Force is hosting an evening of merriment with our military personnel who are away from their families for the holidays. Show your appreciation this year by donating $25 to cover a Marine’s dinner, drinks and a Christmas gift. Email info@SCwatersheds.com for donation details or log on to SCwatersheds.com.

San Juan Capistrano
Making Spirits Bright
The City of San Juan Capistrano hosts its annual Tree Lighting Celebration and Downtown Festivities on Saturday, December 5th at 4 p.m. This seasonal tradition at Historic Town Center Park features a live stage show and the official lighting of the Christmas tree at 5:45 p.m. Children will have the opportunity to take photos with Santa at nearby Los Rios Park. The fun continues throughout the evening in the downtown area, the Los Rios Historic District and at Mission San Juan Capistrano. Local retailers will be hosting open houses and will stay open late with special sales and complimentary refreshments for shoppers.

On A Mission
Father Christmas will be offering a unique “photo op” at the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano on Saturday evening, December 5th from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Christmas at the Mission features the ringing of the Mission bells, an exhibition of local music performance groups and “Santa’s Workshop” with cookie and ornament decorating for kids. Food Vendors will be serving tamales, burgers, coffee, hot cider, hot cocoa, sweets and more. This treasured landmark will be festively lit up for this special after-hours event. Dickens Carolers, chamber singers, mariachis and orchestra musical performances will entertain you throughout the evening. Bring the entire family and enjoy a special night to remember.

Laguna Niguel
Lite Brite
Laguna Niguel’s City Hall will brighten up the sky at its annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration on Saturday, December 5th from 5 to 7 p.m. Join in the countdown to powering up the tree while you keep warm and happy with hot chocolate and cookies. Kids will have a blast making a craft presented by Home Depot. Songs of the season will be performed by Saddleback Valley Chorale and Laguna Niguel’s rising star, Sidney Bowen. Bring your camera and snap a quick pic with Saint Nick.

A Latke Fun
A blizzard of holiday fun awaits the whole family as Chabad Laguna Niguel and the City host its Chanukah Wonderland and Menorah Lighting on Sunday, December 6th at 3:30 p.m. The merriment will happen at City Hall, with live entertainment, arts and crafts, and traditional Chanukah treats.

Walk This Way
The City of Laguna Niguel’s annual Holiday Parade takes place on Saturday, December 12th at 10 a.m. Another picture-perfect December morning will likely usher in this annual tradition, which matches perfectly with the parade’s theme: “California Dreamin.'” This year’s Grand Marshall is Kate Flannery, a comedic actress best known for her role as Meredith in the television show The Office. Over 100 exciting entries, including marching bands, floats, special guests, youth groups, equestrian units, exotic cars, military members and local heroes, will strut their stuff through the parade route. Get over to Crown Valley Parkway early to stake out the best seat for a view of Mr. Claus!

DANA POINT BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS – DP HARBOR
December 11 & 12th and December 18th & 19th
The city of Dana Point will usher in the holidays season by celebrating with the 41st annual boat parade. This fun and colorful parade challenges local boaters to colorfully decorate their boats and receive awards for: Best Theme, Best Use of Lights, Best Animation and Most Colorful. Click here for more information.

Los Patios Mexican Cocina
By Donia Moore

Escape south of the border without ever having to leave Orange County! Your ticket to authentic Mexican cuisine is just minutes away at Los Patios Mexican Cocina in the Historic Old City Plaza in San Clemente.

Carlos Frutos opened Los Patios in 2002. Born and raised in the restaurant industry in Mexico City, he’s honed a talent for matching the rich flavors of fresh ingredients with piquant spices. Carlos has traveled from Guadalajara to Ensenada and Cancun to Mazatlan to bring customers delightful and subtly sophisticated dishes that are representative of his native country.

Los Patios has received the honor of having been voted “Best Mexican Food” in San Clemente by local newspapers… and for good reason. During my recent visit, I enjoyed the traditional Aztecan Molcajete of grilled pork, steak, chicken, and shrimp served steaming hot on a lava rock plate. The dish was both delicious and satisfying. I also sampled the vegetarian Spinach Enchiladas which combined sautéed fresh spinach and tomatillos, garnished with poblano peppers in a creamy pesto sauce — divine.

I highly recommend trying Alida’s Favorite, named after Carlos’s lovely wife, and of the most popular dishes on the menu. This grilled chicken breast and shrimp entrée is sautéed in a flavorful garlic chipotle sauce. For a twist on the traditional, Los Patios offers Rellenos Del Mar, with two poblano chiles stuffed with crab, scallops, shrimp and cheese — a fantastic choice for seafood lovers.

The friendly, knowledgeable staff made my experience at Los Patios that much more enjoyable. Carlos encourages customer suggestions and feedback from diners and has even collaborated with them to create new dishes. The Queso Fundido with shrimp and scallops, for example, was born of a joint effort between servers and patrons and remains one of the most popular appetizers at the restaurant.

Los Patios features $1 street tacos on Taco Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and all-you-can-eat Endless Enchiladas for just $9.99 on Thursdays. Happy Hour food and drink specials are available from 2 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The kiddos can also get in on the action with full meals for only $5.95 on the Amiguitos menu. Los Patios also offers a completely customizable catering menu for your next gathering or special event.