Harv Wyman, The Mortgage Manager
By Shelley Hudson

As the South Orange County real estate market slowly inches its way to a more favorable climate, homeowners, prospective homeowners, and market watchers inevitably shift focus to property values, refinancing, and optimizing investment strategies. With new government regulatory pressures and increasingly stringent lending requirements in place, partnering with a seasoned industry veteran is a pivotal decision toward securing your financial future.

With a 25-year career in the local mortgage finance arena, Harv Wyman has witnessed the extreme highs and lows of the Southern California real estate market. As a graduate of USC, Wyman made his home in Laguna Niguel, where he and wife Kim have raised their four children, coached youth teams, and enjoyed a 20-year membership at the Monarch Beach Club and the El Niguel Country Club. “Over the years I have made so many great friends and acquaintances; that’s why I love doing this. I like being entrenched in the community and helping my neighbors make the right choices,” shares Harv.

After operating his own brokerage firm for many years, Wyman recently transitioned to a position as Senior Mortgage Analyst with Alpine Mortgage Planning in the Ocean Ranch neighborhood of Laguna Niguel. As a subsidiary of Pinnacle Capital, Alpine Mortgage boasts unparalleled strength and unlimited resources within the industry. “It’s amazing to be able to present such a variety of lending programs to clients,” says Wyman, “Since Alpine funds its own loans, I have a flexibility that I was never able to offer in the past. I have absolutely everything at my disposal.” In addition to conforming and jumbo loans, Alpine provides FHA/VA, interest-only, reverse mortgages, and special programs for borrowers who don’t quite fit the criteria of traditional lenders. Clients who have suffered setbacks from a flagging economy such as a short sale, bankruptcy, or foreclosure can take advantage of Alpine’s Alternative Mortgage Program, which is designed to get families back into homes without the “seasoning time” requirement. “Most companies can accommodate the ’round peg-round hole’ buyers, but we can extend our services to a wider segment of the population. With Alpine’s own mortgage-backed security, almost anything is possible,” adds Wyman.

Changing legislation in the mortgage industry has resulted in tighter restrictions for both lenders and borrowers. Despite a challenging regulatory environment, Harv asserts that Alpine’s core competencies lie in the versatility and financial strength behind the company’s product mix. His ability to offer more competitive, high performance programs—and to fund them faster—allows him to deliver results for his clients under circumstances where other mortgage brokers and bankers can’t. The accessibility to specialized products, coupled with concierge-level customer service have generated a loyal and long-term clientele for Wyman.

Harv’s analysis of current market conditions is optimistic, but guarded. “The historically low interest rates helped stimulate the local economy toward a rebound, but rates have been slowly creeping back up. In fact, we’ve seen a full percentage point increase since May. Combined with the usual seasonal sales slump, more properties on the market, and rising prices, buyer incentive has plateaued. All signs point to a continuation of suppressed interest rates through 2014, however. The traditional home-selling season is Spring, so we expect to see a similar boost in activity this year as well.”

Let Harv Wyman’s experience and resources work for you. To learn more about mortgage and refinancing opportunities you might not find elsewhere, call Harv directly at 949.939.3410 for a private consultation.

Rockin’ Holiday Happenings
By Shelley Hudson

South OC isn’t missing a beat this year with a superstar lineup of festive family fun! We’ve got the skinny on where to find Mr. Belly-Full-of-Jelly and more from now until the new year.

Dana Point
Harboring The Good Life
This town always goes all-out for the yuletide season and this year is no exception. From 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. on December 6th, Dana Point Harbor is hosting Holiday in the Harbor with a sea of family-friendly fun. A petting zoo, game booths, Santa chats, holiday crafts, and “people painting” will go down simultaneously. All events and parking are free!

A Boatload Of Fun
Dana Point’s 39th Annual Boat Parade of Lights is an absolute can’t miss. Boaters from all over OC elaborately decorate their vessels and compete for prizes. The show can be viewed from virtually any spot in the harbor, but the best (and warmest) views can be enjoyed from one of the many restaurants (make reservations early) lining the waterfront. You can even hop on board a parade boat and experience the festivities first-hand by reserving a ride at DanaWharf.com. The parade starts cruising at 7:30 p.m. on December 6th, 7th, 13th, and 14th.

‘Tis the season to share your list with Mr. Claus on a cruise! Twenty-minute Boat Rides with Santa are offered by Dana Wharf Sportfishing on the 7th and 8th between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. With a new toy donation, you’ll get a $10 Bask Bucks certificate toward a future trip or purchase. Come to the sportfishing docks near the Jolly Roger—and don’t forget your camera.

Santa Paws
Bring your furriest family member to Dana Point Harbor near El Torito on the 14th between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. for Pet Project Foundation’s Santa Paws fundraiser. For a small fee, pose with your pets and Sandy Claws and support the work of this worthy organization.

A Bundle Of Joy
The City’s Winter Festival and Tree Lighting takes place at LaPlaza Park on December 14th. The jam-packed schedule kicks off at noon and runs until the start of the Boat Parade at 7:30 p.m. This FREE day of entertainment includes (deep breath…) a craft fair, face painting, reindeer, carnival games, caricature artists, a petting zoo, pony rides, crafts, cookie decorating, balloon twisters, marionettes, storytelling, great food, carolers, jazz musicians, dancers, and SNOW! Lots and lots of cold, fluffy powder! A screening of Arthur Christmas with complimentary popcorn is set to immediately follow the hot-chocolate-and-cookie-accompanied tree lighting at 5:15 p.m.

Homework For The Holidays
Dana Point is proud to team with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley for Operation Holiday Homework. Students in the program are encouraged to complete homework assignments and are rewarded on a point system which are redeemed for a “shopping spree” for family gifts. Community participation is vital to this event’s success, so please get involved! You can collect gifts for boys, girls, moms, and dads at your office or in your neighborhood in one of the club-provided boxes, and then donate them to the program. You may also volunteer your time at the event on December 14th to help kids select gifts for their families or assist with wrapping them. Email Steve Rho at srho@bgccapo.com for details.

San Clemente
Holly Jolly Hoopla
The elves of Santa’s Village by the Sea and Casa Romantica have put in overtime to sponsor a double dose of merriment at this year’s Holly Jolly Hoopla. Starting at 2 p.m. on December 7th, the Community Center will host photos with the portly Guest of Honor, cookie decorating, and a viewing of Polar Express. San Clemente’s Mayor will officiate the tree lighting at 5:15. Head over to the holiday-bedecked Casa Romantica for Christmas at the Casa at 5:30 for carolers, crafts, and live music.

Food For Thought
The Watershed Task Force, Holiday Inn Express and Carbonara Trattoria are joining forces with The Funniest Housewives of Orange County to host the 5th Annual Adopt-A-Marine Holiday Dinner for service members stationed at Camp Pendleton. This is a great way to show appreciation to military personnel who can’t be with their loved ones for the holidays. Your $25 donation covers a Marine’s night out and keeps you off the “naughty” list. Email info@SCWwatersheds.com for donation details.

A Family Affair
Another opportunity to spread good tidings is through Family Assistance Ministries’ Adopt-A-Family program. Your co-workers, club, scout troop, or family can sign up at the FAM office and pick up a special family’s wish list, including ages and sizes of clothing for children. Your group can remain anonymous or deliver gifts personally. If you prefer, you can donate groceries for holiday meals instead. Check out Family-Assistance.org for more info.

San Juan Capistrano
Making Spirits Bright
The Annual Tree Lighting Celebration and Downtown Festivities will be more wondrous than ever this year. This long-running tradition at Historic Town Center Park kicks off on the 7th at 4 p.m. with a stage show, followed by the tree lighting at 5:15. Downtown shops will stay open late and provide refreshments and one-night-only discounts. The Claus couple, train rides, face painting, and art projects will keep the tots busy, and ZOOMARS’ Live Nativity will surely entertain even the scroogiest Scrooge.

After the tree lighting ceremony, stroll down the street for Christmas at the Mission. Carolers, chamber singers, orchestra musicians, dancers, mariachis and an always-fun Santa’s Workshop for kids make for holiday card-worthy family memories.

Let It Snow!
For the first time ever, San Juan Capistrano will be transformed into a Winter Wonderland on December 14th. We’re talking sledding and snowmen—the real white stuff. Don your cozy apparel between 10:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. and check out the Second Saturday Art Fair along with live music, an ugly sweater contest, and a visit with Father Christmas. Bring receipts from local shops for complimentary gift wrapping.

Laguna Niguel
A Latke Fun
Chabad Laguna Niguel and the City of Laguna Niguel will jointly host the Chanukah Wonderland and Menorah Lighting on December 1st at 3:30 p.m. at City Hall. This free family event includes all the traditional favorites, live music, and activities and crafts for kids.

A Feast For The Eyes
Throw watts to the wind and enter your home in the Holiday Lights Decorating Contest. Now’s your chance to channel your inner Clark Griswald and create a magical scene—and score a $25 Home Depot gift card in the process. Prizes will be awarded for a variety of display categories. For an entry application, see the CityofLagunaNiguel.org calendar. The application must be received by December 9th for judging on the 10th.

Strike Up The Band!
The City’s marquis event this season is the Holiday Parade on December 14th along Crown Valley Parkway. This spectacle draws a crowd of more than 10,000 each year. Marching bands, floats, youth groups, equestrian teams, military units and local celebrities entertain onlookers along the route. A special appearance by the Man In Red is the highlight of the festivities. The parade gets going at 10 a.m., so come early and bring a chair. A free shuttle from the Federal Building at Dorine and El Lazo is your best bet for easy parking.

Star Light, Star Bright
The Christmas Tree Lighting at City Hall on the 14th is just a stocking full o’ fun. This community tradition is the perfect time to offer season’s greetings to friends and neighbors while enjoying performances from St. Anne Strings, Center Stage dancers and Dana Hills High Dickens Carolers. Cool stuff for kids like a photo booth, balloon animal-making and a pow wow with St. Nick will keep your little creatures stirring (at least from 5 to 7 p.m.). Bring a new toy donation for the 1st Battalion, 4th Regiment and the USS McClusky to spread joy to the families of local Marines. Word from the North Pole is to “dress festive and warm.”

Savannah Chop House
By Bonnie Small

Savannah Chop House in Laguna Niguel has recently undergone a culinary facelift, but not the type that might leave it unrecognizable to its dearest patrons. Executive Chef Chris Tzorin and his Chef de Cuisine, Manny Velasco, have choreographed a gentle transition which honors the restaurant’s traditional offerings while injecting some swag with modern plating techniques and locally sourced accompaniments.

Of Guatemalan decent, but born in Orange County, Chris got his start at age 13 washing dishes and as a prep cook in his father’s kitchen (Chef Luis Tzorin of 21 Oceanfront fame). By the age of 20, he was running the kitchen at The Beach House in Laguna and developing his “edgy” personal style that is evident in his trademark red chef coat, multiple tattoos, and the way he rocks a plate of food.

Under Tzorin’s direction, Savannah now serves exclusively Aspen Ridge grass-fed beef and each steak is hand cut in-house. Normally a filet-kind-of-gal, I took a stab at the Chop of the Day – a bone-in Rib Eye grilled to medium rare perfection, served with Savannah’s decadent jalapeño cheddar scalloped potatoes and tender-crisp broccolini.

Chris also bangs out a divine grilled Chilean Sea Bass, topped with a luscious bruleed jumbo scallop, stacked atop a tasty vegetable ragout and a glimmering puddle of citrus beurre blanc. Have I mentioned the whipped butternut squash? Don’t miss it.

Just off his win at the OC Taste Fest in 2012, Tzorin has also been honing his skills on two Food Network shows – as a competitor on Guy’s Grocery Games (aired November 24th) and as a contestant on an upcoming episode of Cutthroat Kitchen, hosted by Alton Brown.

Chris is a dynamic guy who loves to mingle with guests and talk about what ingredients are getting his attention at the moment, so his monthly cooking classes are a must-do! Held the first Wednesday of the month at 11:30 a.m., the $35 price includes a drink, yummy lunch, and three recipes.

Savannah Chop House
32441 Golden Lantern, Laguna Niguel
949.493.7107

Capistrano Toyota
By Shelley Hudson

As Capistrano Toyota General Manager Roger Hogan, Jr. surveys the expansive dealership, he stops to shake hands and chat with every customer along the way. Maintaining the highest standards of personal attention and integrity are the founding principles upon which his father Roger, Sr. grew the business into the success it is today.

Capistrano Toyota’s sterling reputation and no pressure sales philosophy are the cornerstones that continue to fuel its growth. “My dad was determined to make this industry more reputable,” Roger explains. “We want customers to know that car people can be good family people. The easier we can make a customer’s experience with us, the more successful we are. We like what we do, and we want to offer a fair deal.”

Jerry Hernandez, Irvine Valley College basketball coach and loyal Capistrano Toyota customer, sums up his experience, “Going to the dealership is like dining at your favorite family restaurant where you know everyone. The Hogan brothers are always there—it’s about a sense of trust and the security of knowing that someone will take the time for me. I’ve referred at least 25 friends or family members to Capistrano Toyota in the last ten years.”

Community outreach remains an integral component of the Hogan philosophy as well. Capistrano Toyota recently partnered with the Dana Hills High School football team and Honor the Valor to raise over $20,000 for military veterans. “We were approached by one of the players about helping out with a fundraiser. When I learned about Honor the Valor, I said, ‘How about if we donate a car?'” recalls Roger. “I have a soft spot for veterans—both of my grandfathers served during the Korean War and we work with many Marines from Camp Pendleton. This was a team effort, and I was happy we could be a part of it,” he adds. As the fundraiser’s grand prize winner, local resident Bill Sidenfaden couldn’t be more pleased with Roger’s donation of the new 2014 Toyota Matrix.

Homefront America is another worthy organization that benefits from Capistrano Toyota’s generosity. This group provides scholarships to military dependents and assists military families in need. The dealership and several employees “adopt” families each year to provide necessities and support. The Ocean Institute, youth education and sports programs, and Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort (CARE) are also organizations that receive assistance from the Capistrano Toyota family.

Roger Hogan, Jr. is enthusiastic about his dealership’s outlook for 2014 with the upcoming rollout of several new vehicles. The Corolla, Tundra, RAV-4, and Highlander have completely new body styling, and all 2014’s come standard with Bluetooth technology. The top-selling Prius and the new RAV-4 EV plug-in models are all highly-anticipated and well-reviewed. With the opening of the Toyota Truck Center on the adjoining property earlier this year, sales of trucks and SUVs have skyrocketed and Capistrano Toyota is now the fastest-growing truck seller in Southern California. The Hogans have even more expansion in the works—Claremont Volkswagen is scheduled to open in early 2014 next door to Claremont Toyota (operated by Hogan
brother Stephen).

The service department has also increased capacity with the addition of several new service bays at the Truck Center, allowing customers to get rolling even quicker. On top of the always complimentary Wi-Fi, local shuttle, concierge service, car wash, and continental breakfast, new customers can score $10 oil changes for any vehicle on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

December is the busiest month of the year in the auto sales industry, and Capistrano Toyota is ready to meet the demand. Inventory is packed with competitively priced new and pre-owned cars, SUVs, and trucks. Be sure to ask your salesperson for the locals only “Back Yard Deals” and incentives.

Roger, Stephen, and Kyle Hogan have grown up in the car business alongside their father Roger, Sr., and all three brothers are now raising families of their own. Roger, Jr. is excited to welcome “Oh Baby!” #5, due to arrive in Spring 2014. “We all work hard, but our families are most important,” says Roger, “I still have lunch with my dad every day, and I wouldn’t change a thing.

[ Check out our behind the scenes footage of our Capistrano Toyota photo shoot! ]

The 36th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot

Run the race before you stuff your face! The Dana Point Turkey Trot, presented by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, is celebrating its 36th year and is an annual tradition for families across Orange County. Welcoming more than 16,000 participants each year, the 2013 race features an expanded two-day Health & Wellness Expo, Kids’ Gobble Wobble, and of course, the 5K & 10K runs. With its scenic views of the Dana Point Harbor and Doheny State Beach, the Turkey Trot is a fantastic experience for the entire family and a great way to start your Thanksgiving Day.

Get the whole family involved
The Turkey Trot embraces participation from the entire family. The one-mile Kids’ Gobble Wobble is a fun way for your child to be included in this fitness-filled event. All race participants and teams are encouraged to dress in costume and enter the contest at 9:00 a.m. on race day. The best costumes will be awarded prizes from Dick’s Sporting Goods and Salt Creek Grille. Parents with strollers are also invited to join in the festivities, but are asked to stay toward the back of the pack.

New to the Turkey Trot in 2013
The popular Health & Wellness Expo has been expanded to a second day this year and will be located in the Dana Marina Plaza. The Expo offers music and entertainment from 100.3 FM The Sound, and highlights fitness related vendors such as CLIF Bar, Moms in Charge and Winder Farms. Turkey Trot merchandise will be available for purchase, including new t-shirt designs, themed accessories, and more. Registration and packet pick-up will be available at the Health & Wellness Expo on Wednesday, November 27th from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on race day, Thursday, November 28th starting at 6 a.m. Additional parking will be available on Wednesday at the Dana Wharf parking lot to accommodate those attending the Health & Wellness expo and for participants that are picking up race packets early.

Support Local Charities
In the tradition of giving thanks, all proceeds from the 2013 Turkey Trot will go to local non-profit organizations: The Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley, Family Assistance Ministries, The Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934. On the day of the race, the charity that has raised the most money on Crowdrise.com will be presented with a $5,000 donation, second place receives $2,500, third place – $1,500 and fourth place – $1,000. Donations will be provided by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce.

To learn more about this family tradition and to register for the event, visit TurkeyTrot.com.

The Diamond Ball

Get ready to sparkle, shine and give back to some treasured friends. The Diamond Ball, to be held Saturday, November 9th at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, is a gala evening with the special mission of raising funds and awareness for animal-related charities. The emotional ties that connect us to the animals we love can oftentimes make the difference in our lives and this wonderful event takes that sentiment to heart.

The 2013 Diamond Ball will support charities whose purpose is to change lives through the assistance of animals. The beneficiaries of this year’s gala are the Wounded Veteran Initiative of Canine Companions for Independence (CCI) and Friends of Orange County’s Homeless Pets (FOCHP).

Veteran’s Day weekend was intentionally selected as the date for The Ball because it’s a time to honor and reflect on those who’ve served our country proudly. Both CCI and FOCHP support the residents of our local community through their work. Having FOCHP and CCI together as beneficiaries solidifies The Diamond’s Ball’s vision that it’s not just about people saving animal’s lives; it’s about how animals save people’s lives, too.

CCI helps injured veterans put their lives back together by providing assistance dogs that play an integral role in a veteran’s ability to regain independence. Established in 1975, CCI has five regional training centers across the country and is recognized worldwide for the excellence of its dogs, and the quality and longevity of the matches it makes between dogs and people. Through CCI’s Wounded Veterans Initiative, veterans with physical disabilities such as hearing loss, limb amputations and spinal cord injuries receive services that may not otherwise be available.

FOCHP aids homeless and unwanted pets by making them more adoptable. Their mission is accomplished through training, veterinary services, and spay and neuter assistance. FOCHP is operated solely by volunteers and 100 percent of donations received go directly back to the needs of their rescued animals.

This extraordinary evening to honor veterans and The Ritz-Carlton’s charity partners will be a night to remember. Tickets are $250 per person and the evening includes a silent and live auction and a four-course dinner presented by Executive Chef Pedro Contreras. The evening also includes The Diamond Drop Extravaganza, an opportunity for guests to donate gems and jewelry in support of the cause. For more information about The Diamond Ball and to purchase tickets, please visit TheDiamondBall.org.

Luciana’s Ristorante
By Bonnie Small

“Umph and Zing!,” says Jorge Luhan II, are his mother Lucia’s trademark criteria for a well-prepared dish. And as Luciana’s Ristorante, a culinary landmark in Dana Point, celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, the community is in for a healthy serving of both. Established in 1983, Luciana’s opened in tune with a very different dining culture – guests arrived in black tie and the original menus included detailed descriptions of such exotic drinks as “espresso” and “cappuccino.”

Today’s diners are both more culturally sophisticated and more casual. Jorge Luhan II is thrilled that locals now think of Luciana’s as not just a “special occasion” restaurant, but also as an “any night” destination where families can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine and couples can unwind with a delicious bottle of wine after a long day.

All in the Family
A true family business, everyone played a part in the day-to-day operations, including Jorge’s Grandma Mary Vallera who made all of the fresh pasta for the restaurant until she was 90! Before she retired, Mary taught the kitchen staff the “right” way to create it, and even now, as she celebrates her 100th birthday, the first question she has for her grandson is always, “Who made the pasta today?” Mary learned the art of pasta making at just six years of age – strictly by hand – mixing, rolling, and cutting each batch daily, refusing to ever use a machine.

Luciana’s menu has certainly evolved over thirty years, although many of the original family recipes remain, including Grandma Mary’s Ravioli di Vitello and his mom’s Linguine Luciana. The kitchen rarely veers from its emphasis on the simple preparation of high-quality, fresh ingredients. The Mediterranean diet, which is now creating a buzz as a “new” culinary trend, is merely what Jorge’s family has intuitively understood and practiced for decades as part of their Italian heritage. “Farm to table is what we’ve been doing for generations,” says Jorge, “Knowing where your food comes from and eating handmade meals is how my family has always lived.” For years, he’s witnessed his mother and grandmother artfully craft fresh, delicious dishes that would keep the family gathered at the kitchen table for hours. And with the family’s matriarch turning 100, they just may have been ahead of the times. Americans are just recently beginning to transition away from processed and fast foods. “You look at trends and you get to watch them come full circle,” says Jorge.

History in the Making
Lucia and her husband ventured back to her homeland in the late 80’s in search of a quiet retreat from their busy American lives. As they happened on a 500-year-old Tuscan farmhouse in Montevettolini, complete with 18 acres of olive groves, they knew they found home. Within a year, Lucia began pressing olives and creating oil. In keeping with her philosophy of using only the best ingredients of known origin, she’s been supplying the restaurant with Villa Lucia’s organic extra virgin olive oil for years. The Luhans have plans to market their product and hope to have it available for your table in the next few months.

The Legacy Continues
Jorge attributes Luciana’s longevity to the strong family foundation laid by his mother and the internal culture of the restaurant. The Luhans believe that life revolves around the table and feel that the key to the restaurant’s success stems from a willingness to be in tune with what customers want and to provide a consistently high level of personalized service. Luciana’s staff is like a family and Jorge finds that the higher the bar is set, the more they rise to the occasion. As the 2nd generation to oversee the restaurant, he is proud to have carried on the family legacy for over 20 years now. On any given night, you’ll find him warmly greeting guests and stopping by tables to make certain that diners are having an experience that would make his mother and grandmother smile.

Family Expansion
Very active in and devoted to the community, Jorge is a member of several local business organizations and is also involved in the revitalization of Dana Point’s Town Center. In November 2011 the family grew when he married his lovely wife Anne. As a physician and the proprietor of Elite Medezin in Dana Point, Anne has also developed strong ties to the area in which she now calls home.

As Luciana’s kicks off its 30th year, Jorge and his entire family hope that customers of every vintage will stop in and say hello. In the coming months, Luciana’s will feature some favorite classic menu items and they hope that the community will help them celebrate by sharing personal stories of memorable meals and moments at the restaurant.

24312 Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point
(949) 661-6500 • Lucianas.com

Dana Point State BBQ Championships

The enticing smell of bbq smoke will ride the coastal winds at the 3rd Annual Dana Point State BBQ Championship. The event takes place on Saturday, October 5th from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the beautiful Sea Terrace Park…and admission is free. This Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) sanctioned contest is the largest bbq competition on the west coast. Last year’s event set a California state record with 79 teams participating in the championship and organizers are anticipating to eclipse that turnout this year with a goal of 100 teams. The City of Dana Point encourages local residents and amateur barbeque enthusiasts to form teams and join in the friendly competition.

KCBS is the world’s largest organization of barbeque and grilling enthusiasts with over 15,000 members worldwide. The KCBS places their stamp of approval on over 400 barbeque contests throughout the country. A blind judging process is used by KCBS certified judges to ensure fairness and KCBS judges are trained in a manner that allows them to appropriately assess all types of barbeque, from St. Louis and Texas styles to Memphis and Carolina styles. Judges will sample and assign a point total to each entry based on appearance, taste and texture. Each teams’ cumulative points not only determine the winners at the Dana Point competition, but also go towards regional and national titles like the California BBQ Association’s Team of the Year.

BBQ enthusiasts from Oregon, Nevada, Arizona, Utah and across the state are competing again this year for a share of $20,000 in prize money – with the ultimate goal of being crowned the Grand Champion. Teams will compete in four different bbq categories: brisket, pork, ribs and chicken. A special contest category for all you sweet lovers is being served up this year – dessert! The committee has included a bonus contest called the Ranchers Reserve, which will award the most deserving team a cash prize of $900.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 9934 will be selling BBQ Tasting Tickets for $2 per tasting, so the public can try some of the mouth-watering BBQ prepared by many of the competitors. All of the proceeds from the public tastings will go directly to the VFW.

The entire family can savor a delicious meal while having some fun at the BBQ Championship. Along with the BBQ, there will be Microbrew Tastings and a food court where full entrees and beverages will be available. Bring the whole family, even the dog, to enjoy the festivities. Plenty of live entertainment will be performed throughout the afternoon from Chris Lozano and the Dixie Playboys, to The Tricia Freeman Band and Turn the Page (a Bob Seger Tribute band).

Proceeds from the food court and beverage area will benefit the 5th Marine Regiment Support Group, American Cancer Society’s Dana Point Relay for Life, Pet Project Foundation and other deserving non-profit groups that support local residents.

Parking will be available on Stonehill Road and at Dana Hills High School. A complimentary shuttle bus will run from Dana Hills High School to the BBQ Championship from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. To become an event participant or for more information, please contact the Dana Point Community Services & Parks Department at 949.248.3530 or visit
DanaPointBBQChampionships.com.

Smashburger
By Bonnie Small

Founded in Colorado in 2007, Smashburger is a nationwide sensation, and thanks to owners Ernie and Stephen Sandoval, locations in South OC are sprouting up everywhere! The newest digs in San Clemente’s Gateway Village Plaza (adjacent to San Clemente High School) has been smashing for just over a month to rave reviews.

Smashburger’s goal is to bring back the classic American burger and they accomplish their mission by using a precise method of “smashing” a ball of 100% Angus beef on the flat top grill, resulting in a burger perfectly seasoned, expertly seared on the outside, and juicy inside.

The Smashburger core menu is available at each location, but specialties like the OC burger are unique to each region. Starting with either a beef patty or chicken breast, the OC brings some sophistication to quick food with the addition of baby portabella mushrooms, baby arugula, grilled onions, aged Swiss cheese and truffle mayo. One tip – a side of flash fried green beans and carrots (no batter!) is the perfect accompaniment.

No-fuss burger lovers will love the Classic Smash – American cheese and traditional burger condiments are perfected with the addition of Smash Sauce (think Thousand Island dressing made with mustard instead of ketchup.) If you like it hot, head for the Spicy Baja burgerwhich layers fresh jalapenos, guacamole, pepper jack cheese and chipotle mayo on – wait for it – a chipotle bun!

Anyone can order off the menu board, but you can impress your family and friends by ordering from Smashburger’s secret menu, which includes fried pickles and the jackpot-worthy Sin City Burger topped with a fried egg, bacon, grilled onions, haystack onions and Smash Sauce.

Nothing rounds out a classic burger better than a classic shake, which the Smashburger crew whips up with Häagen-Dazs ice cream. For a scrumptiously nostalgic blast, try the PB&J shake made with vanilla Häagen-Dazs, strawberry syrup and Nutter Butter cookies. (PB&J is featured for a limited time, but will soon make its way to the secret menu!)

Open daily 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.

806 Avenida Pico, San Clemente • 949.218.4900 • SmashBurger.com

Nanch Pellegrino, NP Aesthetics
By Shelley Hudson

Nancy Pellegrino, NP is much more than a pretty face. Although it’s difficult not to notice her flawless skin and sparkling blue eyes, she’s also the brains and expertise behind thriving NP Aesthetics, Inc. in Newport Beach. Just ask any of Nancy’s loyal skin care devotees, and you’ll quickly learn that she’s not only an age fighting authority, but a trusted and attentive professional who delivers results-based aesthetic medicine to men and women ages 18 to 88.

What sets Nancy Pellegrino apart from her colleagues is what can’t be taught through formal education. She has 15 years of experience providing injections, laser and skin care treatments, in addition to graduating from UCLA at the top of her class. Her innate ability to assess each patient’s face and to visualize the possibilities allows Nancy to personalize each and every injection, achieving natural and consistent results. “I am in the business of providing happy medicine, but am serious about fighting the aging process with safe and proven solutions. I strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my patients, helping them match the outside with how they feel on the inside,” shares Nancy.

Nancy’s clientele ranges from stay-at-home moms to the entertainment industry’s familiar faces. “Several of my patient’s livelihood’s are dependent on their appearance, so it’s imperative that I offer innovative services that deliver the perfect balance of classic elegance and glamour. I want my clients to look like they’ve just returned from a restful vacation, not that they’ve been noticeably injected with Botox or fillers,” says Nancy. Peggy Tanous from the OC Housewives agrees, “Nancy Pellegrino is the best injector I have ever been to. Being a TV host and a model, my appearance is everything. She has a way of distributing Botox and fillers so it reaches all areas, not just one. You look rejuvenated rather than frozen
and expressionless!”

As a member of Allergan’s advisory board and a highly regarded A.C.E speaker and trainer for the company, Nancy stays one step ahead by having advanced knowledge of products before they’re widely available. She trains doctors and other medical professionals, educating them on the technique and use of Botox and Juvederm. Patient and former OC Housewife Lynne Curtin says, “I am so lucky I found Nancy Pellegrino. She is definitely the Michelangelo of Botox, fillers and other non-invasive treatments for women who are not ready to make that step towards a surgical procedure. Along with her amazing staff, Nancy is changing lives and breathing new life and hope into women of any age. I highly recommend a visit to her beautiful state-of-the-art facility which offers the latest and greatest procedures
and products.”

Nancy Pellegrino’s success has resulted from her passion for the field of aesthetics and because she genuinely cares about her patients. “I’m very grateful for the loyal, happy clients who have trusted me with their faces for years. I’ve been their friend, confidant and have shared in their major life moments. It’s rewarding when they leave NP Aesthetics looking and feeling amazing… and my reputation depends on it.”

Nancy Pellegrino holds R.N. (Registered Nurse) and N.P. (Nurse Practitioner) certifications. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from CSULB and a Masters in Nursing (MN) from UCLA. Nancy is a member of the California Association of Nurse Practitioners and The Aesthetic Practice Association. She is also a trainer, speaker and on several advisory boards for Allergan, Inc.

Nancy Pellegrino, N.P.
180 Newport Center Drive, Suite 160
Newport Beach, CA 92660
(949) 706-9919
npaesthetics.com