Your Guide to South OC’s Holiday Happenings
by Monique Reilly

Dana Point
Snow Way!
Spread cheer and merriment this holiday season by dashing over to one or more local festivities guaranteed to bring a smile to the faces of the young and young at heart. South OC is bursting with activities sure to kindle the spirit of joy, peace, and goodwill!

See The Light
In celebration of 40 years of lighting up the holiday season, the annual Dana Point Boat Parade goes big with this year’s theme: “Fantasea Holiday.” Showcasing the rich maritime history, sea life and activities found in Dana Point, the harbor will be lit up like never before. The Boat Parade will run on consecutive Friday and Saturday nights on December 5th, 6th, 12th and 13th. Make reservations early at your favorite waterside eatery for a great view. The parade begins nightly at 7:30 p.m.

Seaing Is Believing
Catch a ride with Santa and his helpers as they hit the high seas, or at least cruise slowly around the harbor. Boat Rides With Santa offers a unique opportunity for children (and adults) to share their wish list with Mr. Claus. The El Camino Real Junior Woman’s Club will be on hand to capture the moment with a photo for a $3 donation. This is a unique and fun way for kids of all ages to visit with Santa, so dress warm and festive. Santa’s sleigh, (I mean boat), will launch from Dana Wharf Sportfishing’s docks on December 6th and 7th from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Get The LED Out
Dana Point’s Inaugural IlluminOcean will electrify the world famous Dana Point Harbor with 40 nights of holiday lights this December. Thiswonderland by the sea features a brilliant spectacle of 18 oversized lighting sculptures with over 225,000 LED lights, and is free to the public nightly from sundown til 10 p.m. See octopus and sharks, frolicking fish and leaping dolphins, starfish, surfers, enchanted mermaids, a towering glow-motion tree and light tunnels. Stroll through the colorful collection of immersive attractions, every step filled with vibrant sights and sounds. On weekends, roaming street performers entertain the crowd, glow merchandise shines and “Whale Eyes” 3D glasses give a must-see holographic look at this holiday spectacle.

Going To The Dogs
The Dana Lawn at The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel will host Yappy Howl-iday on Sunday, December 7th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. A festive gathering of canines and their companions provides Fido with the opportunity to be photographed with the “Big Dog” himself – Santa Paws. Guests are asked to bring unopened canned or dry dog food, treats or dog toys to be donated to a local animal shelter.

That’s Another Story
The Eco-Adventure Center will present Holiday Storytelling at 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays in December at The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel. Classic tales will be read on December 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 19th and 20th. Guests are asked to bring a new children’s book to be donated to Miracles for Kids.

San Clemente
Angels Straight From Heaven
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 Community Center on Monday, December 1st.

Claus On The Coast
Join in the holiday fun on Saturday, December 6th, in downtown San Clemente. Santa’s Village by the Sea kicks off at the Community Center at 2 p.m. with cookie decorating in Mrs. Claus’ Bakery. Snack on popcorn while watching Happy Feet and sled down the snow hill, sponsored by the Friends of San Clemente. Visit with Santa, and then at 5:15 p.m. help light the Community Tree with the Mayor.

Immediately following the lighting, stroll down the lane to Casa Romantica to celebrate the spirit of the season. The Casa is even more magical when adorned for the holidays with splendid decorations that sparkle and glow. Enjoy music that will warm your heart, a visit with Santa, crafts for kids, hot cocoa, cookies and much more.

All In A Day’s Work
You better watch out, you better not pout…San Clemente Playschool is decking its halls for a morning of holiday cheer and excitement on Friday, December 12th for the Lil’ Elves Workshop. The workshop will be open from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Tierra Grande Park in San Clemente, and is open to children between 3 and 5 years old. Santa’s elves are in need of extra special help from your tiny tots to put crafts and 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 many more marvelous activities.

We Salute You
The Watershed Task Force, Carbonara Trattoria and The Holiday Inn Express are joining forces with The Funniest Housewives of Orange County to host the 6th Annual Adopt-A-Marine Holiday Dinner for service members stationed at Camp Pendleton. Most of our military personnel are away from their families for the holidays. Show your appreciation this year by donating $25 which will cover a Marine’s dinner, drinks and a Christmas gift. For more information, email info@SCwatersheds.com for donation details or visit SCwatersheds.com.

San Juan Capistrano
Holiday Round Up
The holidays will be in full swing as the City of San Juan Capistrano hosts its Tree Lighting Celebration and Downtown Festivities on Saturday, December 6th. This annual tradition will take place at Historic Town Center Park and begins at 4:00 p.m. There will be a live stage show and official lighting of the Christmas tree at 5:30 p.m. The fun continues throughout the evening at Mission San Juan Capistrano, in the Los Rios Historic District and at Zoomars Petting Zoo. Downtown stores will be hosting “Open Houses” with special sales and complimentary refreshments.

Ring My Bell
Celebrate the holidays at Mission San Juan Capistrano on Saturday evening, December 6th from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Christmas at the Mission features the ringing of the historic bells, an exhibition of local music performance groups throughout the Mission 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. The beautiful historic Mission 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 family and enjoy this festive night at the old Mission.

Laguna Niguel
Deck The Hall
Laguna Niguel’s City Hall will brighten the sky starting Saturday, December 6th, with its annual Christmas Tree Lighting and holiday festivities. Munch on yummy cookies and keep warm with hot chocolate (the forecast says it may drop down to the low 60’s that evening). Kids can burn energy in a bounce house, as well as make crafts and more. Enjoy the songs of the season and don’t miss the annual countdown to the lighting of the tree. Spend a little time and snap a quick pic with the most treasured celebrity of the season — Santa. The event will run from 5 to 7 p.m.

A Latke Fun
A blizzard of holiday fun awaits the whole family as Chabad Laguna Niguel and the City host the Chanukah Wonderland and Menorah Lighting on Sunday, December 21st at 3:30 p.m. The Wonderland will be happening at City Hall, with live entertainment, arts and crafts, and traditional Chanukah treats. Bring your family, friends, and lots of holiday spirit. Shalom!

Everyone Loves A Parade!
Another picture-perfect December morning will likely usher in the Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade. This annual procession will start at 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 13th. 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 down Crown Valley Parkway. No hometown holiday parade is complete without a dazzling entrance by Santa Claus! Arrive early to stake out the best seat for this South Orange County tradition.

Tannins Restaurant & WIne Bar
By Michele Clarke

Tannins Restaurant & Wine Bar in San Juan Capistrano blends old world cuisine with a modern flair. Featuring delicious Italian and Mediterranean cuisine and an extensive wine list, the restaurant strives to make your dining experience memorable by placing an emphasis on food and wine pairings. Tannins is the perfect venue to ring in the holidays, from its Levendi Cave, Wine Cellar or recently renovated outdoor patio, these unique spaces offer the perfect backdrop for holiday parties, bridal and baby showers, sports banquets or company events.

At Tannins, the owners and staff treat everyone just like family, resulting in first-time customers often becoming repeat guests. During our visit, I witnessed servers welcoming many loyal diners by name and was impressed to see one customer present a gift to the manager — definitely a sign that the restaurant is doing something right. According to owner Gabriel Sanchez, “Tannins has an open kitchen so that customers can interact directly with the chef and watch their food being prepared.” This intentional design element lends itself to a comfortable and intimate dining experience.

On a recent Tuesday evening, we stopped in for the Filet Mignon and Lobster Tail Night. Our dinner began with garlic bread accompanied by an olive dip that’s to die for. The filet practically melted in my mouth and was so tender and full of flavor that it could have been cut with a fork. The lobster tail was succulent and ready to jump into my butter. Complete with silky, whipped potatoes and crispy, yet tender asparagus, the generous and tasty meal was reasonably priced at only $22. Be sure to make reservations early to experience this don’t-miss surf ‘n turf for yourself.

Along with the evening’s special, I had the pleasure of sampling Tannins’ lasagna. Prepared with a house-made meat sauce and three types of cheese, this traditional entrée had just the right amount of sauce (and the perfect kick!) to fully highlight the noodles and other ingredients.

As a finale, we ordered the Crème Brûlée and New York Cheesecake. Topped with a sweet caramel crisp, the Crème Brûlée offered a decadent and delicious smooth vanilla custard inside. The tasty and generous slice of New York-Style Cheesecake was drizzled with raspberry topping and served with fresh fruit.

Our server was very friendly and knowledgeable, providing prompt and attentive service throughout our meal. As first-timers, we had several questions regarding the menu, and she took the time to answer them all completely and made additional recommendations. With over 40 wines by the glass, one of the largest selections in Orange County, Tannins’ staff will gladly suggest pairing options to elevate your dining experience.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or a corporate event, Tannins offers catering to make your gathering stress-free and special. If you need a night off from cooking to tackle holiday to-do’s, opt for take-out or delivery (available in a limited area).

Tannins has made the choice to be environmentally conscious and has gone green. The restaurant serves locally grown, pesticide-free produce and only utilizes recyclable to-go cartons.

If you’re looking for a resource to provide healthy school lunches, then look no further. In an effort to encourage healthy eating habits for children, Tannins has prepared as many as 200-boxed lunches a day for local schools. Contact them for more information.

Tannins Restaurant & Wine Bar serves lunch and dinner daily. Happy Hour runs Monday through Friday from 2 to 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. Head over to San Juan Capistrano for an unforgettable meal and become part of the Tannins family this holiday season.

Tannins Restaurant & Wine Bar
27211 Ortega Hwy.
San Juan Capistrano
(949) 661-8466
TanninsRestaurant.com

Hanson’s Market – San Juan Capistrano
By Beth Fhaner

Natural and organic food lovers have much to celebrate with the recent opening of Hanson’s Market in San Juan Capistrano. Located on Del Obispo Street in the former location of Farm to Market (next to Armstrong’s Nursery), Hanson’s second store features 17,500 square feet of healthy food options, which is nearly four times larger than its original San Clemente store. With a vibrant, reformatted interior, the new location includes an integrated pharmacy, a large deli, coffee bar, and an indoor/outdoor seating area, among other amenities.

San Clemente resident and owner Ron Castruita has been working in the food and drug industry for more than three decades. His vision is for the store to evolve around the family community, noting the area’s growing elderly population. Hanson’s Market plans to connect with schools and churches, extending discounts to teachers, coaches, and administrators in town. With his strong focus on the local community, Castruita encourages customers to share their preferences with him on what brands and items they would like Hanson’s to carry. “We’re flexible and nimble, and we’re willing to build the assortment around the customer,” he says.

A highlight of the new San Juan Capistrano store is the expanded deli area, which features delicious Boar’s Head products, grab-and-go items such as rotisserie chicken and ribs, a soup and salad bar, freshly prepared sushi, a sandwich bar that offers organic and gluten-free options, and a coffee bar providing Kombucha on tap along with other teas, juices, and smoothies. Breakfast items will also be available in the near future.

With its two locations and a third store set to open soon in San Diego’s Little Italy, Hanson’s Market continues to provide customers with an exceptional retail experience when it comes to buying natural foods. As Castruita aptly states, “It’s really a family market at the end of the day.”

Hanson’s Market
32382 Del Obispo Street
San Juan Capistrano
(949) 388-9327
HansonsMarket.com

Zakura Dining & Bar
By Carina Calhoun

Nestled in the rolling hills of Laguna Niguel (at the former location of Hunter Steakhouse), Zakura Dining & Bar delivers Japanese cuisine with a French flare to tempt your taste buds.

The recently opened restaurant offers fare to seduce your senses. Whether it’s the succulent arugula salad with candied walnuts and fried goat cheese or grilled salmon served with mashed potatoes and mixed vegetables, the colorful presentation is a treat for your eyes as much as it is for your mouth.

Executive Chef Lassine Sylla creates fresh, contemporary takes on the classics—like steak au poivre (filet mignon served with sansho pepper sauce) or bincho maguro tataki (seared albacore topped with caviar and yuzu onions). You can almost taste the thoughtfulness that goes into every plate. Perhaps it’s the hint of citrus that hits you after every nosh or that “just enough” crunch you get after biting into the steamed vegetables.

Alongside a full fusion entrée menu, Zakura offers a wide variety of sushi rolls and sashimi for the raw enthusiast. The restaurant’s sushi chefs prepare everything from traditional tuna to the crowd-pleasing fusion rolls like the Angry Mobster (lobster tempura topped with mixed crab and spicy coconut).

If you’re seeking a truly unique sushi experience, Zakura’s lead Sushi Chef, Richard Anwar, creates specialties to perk up your palate. His Hamachi Truffle Peppercorn takes Japanese yellowtail and marries it with the flavors of chili, truffle, peppercorn and yuzu. The freshness, the pairing of ingredients and plating set the stage for an extraordinary dish.

Zakura also offers the services of a full bar—complete with flat screen TVs, cocktails, and your favorite beer on tap. Whether you’re after a glass of wine, a martini, or good ol’ Stella Artois, they’ve got you covered (if you’re of the latter inclination, check out the happy hour menu, too!). A perfect spot for an after work get together or to celebrate that special occasion, Zakura has just the space (and taste) for you.

Zakura Dining & Bar
30100 Town Center Dr. • Suites Y – Z
Laguna Niguel • 949.218.0877

Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California
By Beth Fhaner

If you’re like many in south Orange County who suffer from allergy and asthma-related conditions, relief is just around the corner at Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California. For more than 30 years, the group has been treating the local community for allergies, asthma, eczema, sinus problems, chronic cough and much more.

Founded in 1980 and under the current guidance of partners Dr. Warner Carr and Dr. William E. Berger, the practice is known for quality, leading-edge medical information in conjunction with thoughtful, unhurried care. With offices in San Clemente, Mission Viejoand Irvine, the nationally and internationally recognized physicians will treat you like a member of the family at a location close to home.

Dr. Warner W. Carr spent 17 years in the Army as a practicing physician and obtained his medical degree from the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle. He admits that he gravitated to the specialty of allergy and asthma care after noticing “the explosion of allergic diseases in our society.” When it comes to treating patients with allergies, Dr. Carr says that food allergies and environmental allergies are both extremely common conditions. After obtaining a patient’s history, performing a physical exam, and administering some tests, Dr. Carr and his staff are able to create a tailored treatment plan to alleviate some allergic symptoms. Strategies and medical therapies may include medication, allergy shots, avoidance to certain allergens, or a combination of treatments to achieve optimal results.

If you’re the parent of a school-aged child, you’ve certainly been introduced to peanut-free areas and the increased focus on food allergies in our institutions of learning and beyond. As food allergies in both children and adults are on the rise, it’s imperative that diet and environment are diligently monitored to avoid what could be a life-threatening situation. The primary culprits of food allergies in children are milk, eggs, and peanuts, although soy, wheat (gluten), fish and shellfish round-out the top 7 items.

If someone in your family suffers from an allergy to dust mites, the best approach is to tackle it at the source. Found on towels, pillows, matresses and carpeting, dust mites can be significantly reduced through vacuuming, dusting, decluttering and the use of dust mite covers. Parents of some of the children that Dr. Carr treats are concerned that their beloved stuffed animals may harbor dust mites. Rest assured, there’s no need to give Elmo the boot. Simply place the furry friend in a plastic bag and then in the freezer – problem solved.

Another area of concern for families and adults is exercise-induced asthma, which occurs in patients only when they’re physically active. According to Dr. Carr, exercise-induced asthma “is a very common condition we see in our practice.” Besides airway inflammation, this type of asthma may also cause patients’ muscles to get twitchy and narrow, leading to shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing. “About 10 people per day die in the U.S. due to asthma. It breaks my heart because it is easily treated with appropriate management and medications that are very easy to carry and use as needed thereafter,” shares Dr. Carr.

With an extremely busy research center in Mission Viejo, the doctors at Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California are involved in cutting-edge research, clinical trials and testing for large pharmaceutical companies around the world. Additionally, Dr. Carr lectures worldwide and feels fortunate to teach allergists and primary care doctors on an international level. Commenting on his research studies, Dr. Carr notes, “We’re literally on the precipice of a breakthrough for food allergies, and one day we may even potentially cure diseases like asthma.” As a leader in his field, Dr. Carr considers himself blessed to have the opportunity to work on a local, regional, national, and international level. Above all, though, it’s the time Dr. Carr spends with his patients that he finds the most rewarding. “What keeps me refreshed and coming back is the relationships with the patients. There is nothing more fulfilling.”

November Cover Shoot of Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California

San Clemente Villas by the Sea
By Bill Koelzer

The San Clemente Villas by the Sea assisted living community offers a luxurious, healthy, comfortable environment for senior residents over age 65.

The Villas community includes nutritious gourmet dining, an activities center, movie theater, computer room and library, pool & spa, as well as comfortable outdoor patio areas for important social interaction between residents and visiting family and friends.

One enters the Villas through an open, living room-like “grand hall” with soaring ceilings, and plush furniture. Smiling, over-65 seniors enjoy chatting amongst themselves and with visiting relatives as they lounge on couches, easy chairs or sit at small cozy tables. The soft drink refreshments bar is always open.

Paul and Aileen Brazeau co-own and manage the staff and directly participate in the Villas’ social activities, also conducting special “community” events during the year, usually to benefit a non-profit organization.

Intelligently located immediately adjacent to the Saddleback Memorial Medical Center hospital and directly across the street from buildings housing scores of doctors, the gleaming white three story complex offers its residents expansive city and ocean views as well as amenities rivaling those of a luxury private club.

Along with its comfort and grandeur, residents enjoy a level of care seldom seen in senior domiciles. For example, the Villas tailors a care plan to meet each resident’s individual and unique needs involving 24-hour personalized care and the finest comprehensive activity program for residents with special needs and memory care.

The executive director and two licensed nurses are involved in all aspects of team management and resident care, quality assurance and family participation. Dr. Jane L. Mahakian, a Ph.D., gerontologist also works with those in need of help regarding dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease.

Seniors get scheduled transportation Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. with scheduled church transportation services on Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to noon.

Residents have the option of choosing a studio, or a one-bedroom apartment suite.

Aileen Brazeau, the marketing and PR director of the Villas, says, “We love San Clemente and its senior residents who live here. The first thing that Paul, I and our staff focused upon when we opened our doors in 2002 was that each senior has a unique story to tell and each one has individual needs. If we are as successful as people say we are in providing luxury senior care and lodging, it is for that reason… we keep listening very closely to what our residents tell us.”

Married couples, life partners and singles all live here, many forming close friendships as they participate in the endless group and individual scheduled daily activities at the Villas. Residents enjoy as much independence as possible, plus there is ample assistance for much older adults who need help with dressing, bathing, taking medications, healthy nutrition, exercise and other daily personal chores.

Paul Brazeau, a Navy Veteran, and an experienced 40-year builder of shopping centers, has focused on constructing senior facilities for the past twenty years. Before that, he built and owned Delta Electric, a Los Angeles-Orange County electrical contracting firm with more than 100 employees. In his career, he’s built 35 buildings — and San Clemente Villas by the Sea, which he calls his “labor of love.”

San Clemente Villas
660 Camino de Los Mares
San Clemente • 949.489.3400
SanClementeVillas.com

Behind the scenes of our October cover shoot at San Clemente Villas by the Sea

San Juan Capistrano Greek Festival
By Monique Reilly

The 2nd Annual Greek Festival returns to San Juan Capistrano on Saturday and Sunday, September 27th and 28th. Sponsored by Saint Basil Greek Orthodox Church, the festival offers guests authentic Greek cuisine, live music, traditional Greek dancing, specialty shopping at the Greek bazaar and kid-friendly activities.

The menu will feature various Greek delicacies including gyros, souvlaki, lamb chops, spanakopita and Greek salad, as well as delicious pastries like baklava and kourambiethes (powdered sugar butter cookies) which are the perfect complement to a tasty Greek coffee or iced frappé. A taverna, equipped with big screen TVs for a sports bar twist, allows patrons to enjoy Greek beer, wine and ouzo, alongside their domestic favorites.

The Greeks have a word for the spirit of joy, fun and a passion for life – known as “kefi!” Participants are encouraged to dance to live Greek music, and with a few simple lessons will be expressing their kefi with shouts of “Opa!” In addition, the Saint Basil dance troupe will perform traditional dances in costume representing different areas of Greece.

This year’s exhibits will showcase costumed dolls from the many regions of Greece as well as an olive oil tasting and cooking class with a chance to win some great raffle prizes. For those interested in art, iconographer Father Michael Courey will unveil and discuss two Byzantine icons to be used for Saint Basil’s Church. These icons were recently featured at the Getty Museum in Los Angeles as part of his lecture and demonstration.

Festival hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 9 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. For more information on the event, please visit SJCGreekFest.org.

Marbella Farmers Market
By Monique Reilly

Marbella Farmers Market, a cornerstone of San Juan Capistrano for 21 years, is the best kept secret in south Orange County for all of your culinary needs. Farm fresh produce, pre-made gourmet meals, an extensive deli and sushi bar, and fine wine and spirits are at your fingertips at this one-stop shop conveniently nestled in the Marbella Plaza.

This privately owned business prides itself on customer service and its support of local farmers to bring farm-to-market fresh produce and quality products to area residents. Attention to detail in serving its customers is the top priority of Marbella Farmers Market and it’s evident in the vast array of services and selection available. Aside from acting as a conventional grocery store, this establishment offers a full-service deli, prime meat and seafood department, sushi bar, and bakery.

Enjoy a quick breakfast or lunch right inside the store. Beautifully displayed fresh salads, signature sandwiches made with the highest quality Boar’s Head meats and gourmet cheeses, homemade soups, or whatever your taste buds desire make for a quick, easy and delicious meal. The most difficult part will certainly be choosing between the mouth-watering menu options. Couple your entrée with a freshly brewed coffee, courtesy of the friendly barista behind the full-service coffee bar, and finish with a freshly baked treat from the bakery.

Prefer to have a gourmet, healthy meal in the comfort of your own home? Keep your kitchen clean and dish up one of the many seasonally inspired pre-made dinners ready to heat and serve. No need to feel guilty, because you can be sure that this fare is prepared with the freshest and most high quality ingredients.

Marbella Farmers Market offers small town charm and friendly service with reasonable prices and an impressive selection of staple and specialty items. Not to mention, an entire section of gluten free alternatives, organic produce, fresh flowers, unique gift baskets, and top-shelf craft beers and fine wines are readily available.

Cater your next event from an extensive menu and or let the market’s delivery service bring your groceries right to your doorstep. After visiting Marbella Farmers Market, you’ll quickly realize that the possibilities are endless.

Marbella Farmers Market
31109 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano
949.248.1067
MarbellaFarmersMarket.com

MemorialCare Medical Group
By Donia Moore

Patient, thoughtful, engaged physicians? Same day appointments? Convenient location? MemorialCare Medical Group is giving us yet another great reason to live well in South Orange County.

MemorialCare Medical Group has opened a beautiful, state-of-the-art facility in the medical towers on Camino de Los Mares in San Clemente. The new location complements its existing physicians group office in Talega at Saddleback Medical Center. The larger space in North San Clemente consolidates three individual medical offices into one, still allowing room for continued expansion. Four experienced physicians are currently working out of the new office and all are accepting new patients, in case you’re looking.

MemorialCare Medical Group is part of MemorialCare Health System which includes Saddleback Memorial – Laguna Hills and San Clemente, as well as Orange Coast Memorial, Long Beach Memorial, Community Hospital of Long Beach and Miller Children’s and Women’s Hospital Long Beach.

In addition to the benefit of participating in a large health care network, MemorialCare Medical Group provides around-the-clock assistance with a convenient Telephone Advice Nurse line, that’s accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The Advice Nurse line is staffed by professional RNs who are available to answer medical questions at no charge to the caller. Patients may also visit the Urgent Care office, located at 26991 Crown Valley Parkway in Mission Viejo, Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

ABOUT THE DOCTORS:
Pred Mitrevski, MD and James Sperber, MD are both internal medicine physicians. Dr. Mitrevski was born and raised in Orange County. He is a USC graduate and is board certified in internal medicine. When Dr. Mitrevski is away from the office, he loves spending time with his wife and three children and watching Trojan football.

Dr. Sperber loves solving mysteries. He especially enjoys solving the mysteries that lead to better patient care. After growing up in the San Diego area, Dr. Sperber headed east to complete both his undergraduate degree and medical degree in Rhode Island. He is board certified in internal medicine.

Returning to practice medicine in San Clemente was coming home for Dr. Sperber and he has since served generations of families in the community. Over 20 years later, Dr. Sperber is still grateful for this privilege, “Thanks for trusting your health and your life to my care, now and in the future!”

They are joined by neurologists Hitesh Patel MD, MPH and Pedro Postigo, MD. Prior to entering medical school, Dr. Patel earned a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science and Health and a Master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Utah. Board certified in neurology, Dr. Patel enjoys playing a number of different sports.

Dr. Postigo’s journey to practicing medicine in San Clemente came by way of Europe. Originally from Peru, he obtained his medical degree in Spain, then spent several years in England before coming to the United States. Upon his arrival, Dr. Postigo completed an additional four years of training to obtain his U.S. medical license. In private practice since 1983, Dr. Postigo is board certified in neurology. When not in the office, he enjoys playing tennis, gardening, and spending time with his wife and four daughters.

MemorialCare Medical Group physicians are connected through a system-wide electronic medical record system with Saddleback Memorial-Laguna Hills and San Clemente. Patients’ medical records are readily available whether they are in the doctor’s office or hospitalized. This connectivity ensures seamless care with all providers having access to imaging studies, lab results and care notes.

Anyway you look at it, MemorialCare has you covered. Make your appointment today by calling (949) 542-8865. For more information regarding MemorialCare Medical Group or Saddleback Memorial, visit MemorialCare.org.

MemorialCare Medical Group San Clemente Locations:

675 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 200
San Clemente • 949.542.8865

1300 Avenida Vista Hermosa, Suite 250
San Clemente • 949.542.7700

161 Avenida Vaquero
San Clemente • 949.489.8783

For more locations in Orange County,
visit MemorialCare.org/MedicalGroup
or call 866.276.3627

Orange County Seafood Festival
By Monique Reilly

Overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Dana Point Harbor, just steps outside the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, the bluffs provide the perfect backdrop for pescatarian indulgences, refreshing drinks, and lively entertainment. The Orange County Seafood Festival is a don’t-miss event that takes place at Dana Point’s Lantern Bay Park on Saturday, August 9th from noon to 7 p.m.

Exceptional seafood, beer, wine and music are the bill of fare at the Festival. Seafood enthusiasts will be tempted by dishes like Caribbean lobster, lobster corn dogs, spicy seared ahi, crab cake sliders, blackened snapper and grilled catfish. For those who prefer turf to surf, the Orange County Seafood Festival offers an array of non-seafood treats as well. The adventurous may decide to sample the fried blackened alligator tail or simply indulge in a menagerie of the sea’s bounty. Several local eateries will offer their signature dishes for patrons to fulfill their culinary fantaseas.

In the Wine Mixer, guests will have an opportunity to delight in a wide variety of California wines. Selections from Napa, Sonoma, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, and Temecula will be represented. Additionally, the event will feature a beer festival with ice-cold craft beers to quench your thirst. Whatever your taste buds desire, an immaculate pairing of fare and spirits awaits.

Spend the day and grab a drink at the Margarita Bar while relaxing to the live musical talents of Garratt Wilkin and the Parrotheads, the ultimate Jimmy Buffett tribute band. The Parrotheads will be joined by other musicians performing Reggae, Zydeco, and Calypso music throughout the picturesque venue. An undercurrent of beach rock is certain to fill the bluff, reminiscent of the islands.

Stroll through the exhibitor village, where nearly one hundred vendors will display their artwork and share their crafts. Specialty performers will also be on hand to entertain the young and young at heart. Sneak a photo with your favorite mermaid & King Neptune and check out the sea-themed puppet shows, guaranteed to provide lots of smiles.

Admission to the Orange County Seafood Festival is free to attendees. “Big Fish” and “Perfect Wave” drink passes are available for purchase in advance of the event. Big Fish passes provide a host of VIP amenities that include unlimited beer and wine sampling, full glasses in the VIP area, a ticket for a meal at any of the food vendor areas, private restrooms, a tented VIP area with tables and chairs directly in front of main stage and more. Big Fish Passes are $95 and a limited number will be sold, so it’s recommended to purchase them early. Perfect Wave passes also offer unlimited beer and wine sampling and are just $40 in advance and $50 if purchased the day of the Festival; limited quantities are available. Please visit OCSeafoodFestival.com to purchase tickets and for more information about the Festival.

Beat the traffic and take advantage of the complimentary shuttle service. The shuttle will run between Dana Hills High School and the venue between 11:30 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Free parking is also available along Street of the Golden Lantern, between Del Prado Avenue and Dana Point Harbor Drive, or along Dana Point Harbor Drive. Parking may also be found on Old Golden Lantern or in downtown Dana Point with a short walk to the venue.

Patrons of the festival will be pleased to know that a portion of all drink purchases will be donated to the Dana Point 5th Marine Corp Regiment Support Group. So, don’t delay, a day of savory seafood, spirits and entertainment is right around the corner.