CB Cyclebarn – Keeping It Fun!
By Beth Fhaner

When founder and owner Karen Casler opened CB CycleBarn® in San Clemente over two years ago, her vision was to create an indoor cycling studio grounded in customer service. Her mission to make fitness fun, and to provide a variety of classes that foster personal growth, generate a sense of community, and an opportunity for the transformation of one’s body, mind and spirit, has since become a reality.

For those unfamiliar with CB CycleBarn®, there may be a tendency to associate the studio with traditional Spin® classes and the intimidation factor that sometimes accompanies them. To the contrary, indoor cycling at TheBarn is distinctively different than Spinning® and offers a fun, safe, and effective cardio workout that provides an escape for all fitness levels.

Casler is passionate about her vision for CB CycleBarn® and has made it a priority to create an atmosphere of “open arms.” She is committed to maintaining a casual, inclusive environment where you can come as you are and be warmly welcomed. The fun-loving Casler makes riders feel at home and believes in a no-pressure attitude toward attracting new clients. She lets the studio’s results and its exceptional customer service do the talking for her. She’s so confident in her successful formula that she offers the first five classes free to local residents so they can give CB CycleBarn® a spin before making any financial commitment.

Though she has a background in group exercise and an athlete mentality, Casler’s passion is customer service, and that’s what sets TheBarn apart. Having spent countless hours in the pool as a former college athlete, she recognizes the difference between training and exercise. By treating indoor cycling as group exercise and not as indoor training for outdoor cyclists, TheBarn is able to offer something for everyone…regardless of their fitness goal. The sunny and energetic Casler is committed to helping others find their FUN. Her infectiously positive attitude and love for teaching have certainly contributed to TheBarn’s loyal following of cycling devotees and the studio’s rapid rise.

Indoor cycling is non-impact cardio that anyone can do. It’s great cross-training for any sport and an exceptional complement to water sports like surfing, stand up paddle boarding and outrigger canoeing. Whether you’re training for a cycling event or want to groove your way to health and fitness, all types and styles of riders work out side by side in the safe and encouraging studio. The Barn is also a place where families have the ability to exercise together (as long as riders are at least 4’10”— the height requirement needed for the bike).

With a team of 20 plus instructors who do what they love and love what they do, CB CycleBarn® provides the ultimate cardio workout with minimal impact on bones and joints. The minute you step through the door, you’re surrounded by a healthy, positive vibe that immediately draws you in. Loud, upbeat, percussion-based music elevates classes to the next level, and is the motivating force that drives cyclists to work through the burn. To keep workouts fresh, TheBarn offers a wide range of classes so that you can experience a total body workout one day and an inspirational mind/body connection the next.

For those cyclists wanting a more competitive workout, TheBarn offers that experience as well. The studio features bikes with power meters by STAGES® Cycling and real-time CB2 Performance IQ leaderboards, from which riders can review their stats as they pedal and receive data tracking that consists of email stats sent after every class. From the results, riders are then able to set fitness goals, track their performance and measure progress.

“The beauty of TheBarn is the fusion of music and movement,” says Casler, who has witnessed many examples of empowerment and life-changing transformations among her clientele. The results prove that when fitness is fun, people lose weight and gain confidence. She believes strongly that if you enjoy what you’re doing, you’ll keep coming back. As Casler strives to marry the integrity of traditional indoor cycling with her brand of fitness made fun, her success has led to other studio owners seeking her advice, which she gladly imparts.

CB CycleBarn® affords cyclists a variety of perks that make getting started and working out a breeze. New riders are never charged membership or gym fees and have the option to pay as they go. Scheduling a class and even a specific bike can be accomplished quickly online or on your mobile device through the studio’s reservation system. TheBarn also offers a diversity of classes at varying times to provide added convenience and flexibility.

To experience a sweat-breaking, fat-burning class for yourself, contact Karen Casler or studio manager Kat Haskins who will be more than happy to get you saddled up on a bike. For more information about CB CycleBarn®, call 949.481.5438 or visit cbcyclebarn.com.

Check out our behind the scenes look at our latest cover photo shoot of CB CycleBarn!

Las Golondrinas in San Clemente
By Beth Fhaner

Las Golondrinas has long been known as the place to indulge in mouthwatering Mexican food in South Orange County. The family-owned and operated establishment has proudly been serving-up fresh, savory Mexican fare for over 30 years. With locations in San Juan Capistrano, Capistrano Beach, Laguna Niguel, and Mission Viejo, it has recently added a convenient, new location for its customers down south at the Talega Village Center in San Clemente.

Established in 1984 by Arturo and Maria Galindo, the business has grown to include six locations with dine-in, take-out, and catering services. Whether you’re dropping in to pick up a to-go order for your family or a large party, or are in need of a buffet-style catering service for your next special occasion, Las Golondrinas has you covered.

With its casual ambience, the Mexican eatery features an extensive menu of authentic dishes made fresh daily, including such customer favorites as the chicken enchiladas served with rice and beans, chili relleno, and a variety of tacos and tamales—all made in the traditional way with vegetarian options. For dessert, diners can get a sweet fix with pineapple coconut and cinnamon raisin tamales. Starting at 7 a.m. and served all day long, breakfast burritos and tacos are available for those with a hankering for morning fare.

Of course, regular customers can’t get enough of Las Golondrinas’ famous and extremely addictive tortilla chips, which are made fresh daily and can be enjoyed with delicious guacamole and salsa fresca. Be sure not to miss Taco Tuesdays, when all tacos on the menu are offered at 1/2 off the regular price.

As for Los Golondrinas’ long-running popularity, General Manager Liz Galindo-Priest says, “We’ve been in the community for over 30 years and people know us and the quality of our food. We’re thankful to be able to open new locations and look forward to serving our customers at the Talega location.”

Las Golondrinas
Talega Village Center
821 Via Suerte, #103, San Clemente
949.276.7464
LasGolondrinas.biz

 

Mathnasium – The Math Learning Center

 

The goal at Mathnasium is to help math make sense! Whether your child is far behind or is already succeeding in math, Mathnasium offers the tools that enable a student to leap ahead. Mathnasium knows that every child can be successful in math; it’s a matter of teaching it in a way that makes sense to them.

The first Mathnasium Learning Center opened in 2002, more than 40 years after math educator Larry Martinek was inspired to find a better way to teach children math. Larry developed the Mathnasium Method™ and a new business was born. Martinek’s desire was to provide children all over the world with increased confidence, critical thinking skills, and the mathematical ability to last a lifetime. Students of all ages found the curriculum to be incredibly powerful and engaging. As evidence of how effective it is, Mathnasium centers have sprung up across North America, South America, Europe, and Asia.

Mathnasium’s experienced math tutors utilize their proprietary teaching materials and techniques, The Mathnasium Method™, to deliver a customized learning plan designed to address each student’s needs. The instructional approach goes beyond traditional math tutoring to develop understanding and to build a love for math.

If math is a problem, Mathnasium can solve it. Students will grow more excited and confident about math—and their grades will reflect that. Mathnasium owner, Kapil Mathur, oversees four centers in San Clemente, Dana Point, Laguna Niguel and Ladera Ranch. He and his team have been serving elementary, middle and high school students in South Orange County since 2006.

For students who already excel in math, the sky’s the limit. They will expand their math skills and, with math learning made exciting, students will discover what doors excelling at math can open.

Students engage one-to-one with Mathnasium-certified instructors in a unique combination of mental, verbal, visual, tactile, and written exercises. This instruction does more than just meet state math standards; it surpasses the recommendations of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Common Core State Standards.

Basic math concepts and skills are blended with a program specifically designed to help students build number sense. This special program shows them how and why the useful number rules they’re learning work so they are able to understand how they can be applied to interesting areas such as computer science, biology, and psychology.

Students are evaluated with a written and verbal assessment unique to Mathnasium. Based on the results, Mathnasium develops a custom-tailored program designed to close any educational gaps they may have so they can jump ahead when they’re ready for advanced math challenges.

Mathnasium builds upon your child’s existing foundation and explains why mathematical rules work so that children learn and understand them. Mathnasium’s philosophy is that math shouldn’t simply be an exercise in memorization.

Mathnasium also helps students understand their homework as part of each session and prepares them for school tests, as well as standardized tests such as the California High School Exit Exam, SAT, ACT and ISEE.

By giving students a firm foundation—and confidence—in math, Mathnasium can prevent them from falling behind in the future and can help them avoid the problems and frustrations that struggling in math often creates.

Contact your local center today to schedule a free trial session where you and your child can experience all that Mathnasium has to offer.

Click below to contact any of these convenient locations near you.

 

Best places in South OC to get into shape

Our excuses are behind us (literally). The calendar has turned over. There are no more tempting holiday or parties on the horizon. The time is now to shape up, get fit, and work out a path to a healthy lifestyle in 2015 and beyond.

ANYTIME FITNESS
San Clemente’s Anytime Fitness represents a high-concept twist on a boutique gym. Owners Steve and Peggy have created an intimate, non-intimidating studio/gym environment that offers the maximum convenience and flexibility for members, while taking advantage of the resources of a larger national organization. Anytime Fitness-San Clemente employs personal trainers who are degreed professional coaches in strength and conditioning. Each coach is certified in TRX Suspension, kettle bell training, nutrition, and possesses the knowledge to provide effective results. Affordable private and semi-private group training, complimentary educational workshops, and Precision Nutrition counseling will also keep you motivated and on track. Stop by the gym or call 949.276.8888 to learn more and to see why Anytime Fitness is “not your average typical gym.”

BELLA PILATES
Bella Pilates is one of the only studios to offer SMALL group classes with highly skilled teachers to offer a very personalized experience for clients of all levels and abilities. They also offer private and semi private sessions as well. They are a results driven studio, making sure that you will see and feel a difference immediately. They customize a program specifically for each individual. Try two weeks of unlimited classes for $49 or experience your first private session for $45. Bella Pilates is looking forward to seeing you in the new year!. Call 949.388.2747 for more information.


CB CYCLEBARN
CB CycleBarn® offers inspirational instructors, great music, data tracking, a variety of classes, and a staff dedicated to customer care. Classes at TheBarn are fun, safe, and effective non-impact cardio for all ages and fitness levels, including teens and seniors. Signing up is easy and saves time because there’s no waiting to get a bike. TheBarn’s BookYourBike reservation system allows you to choose your bike in advance and makes every rider feel like a VIP. Pay per class or monthly. Special packages are available for high school students and non-peak class times. Everyone’s first five classes are free with a local ID. New clients can take advantage of one free month when signing up for a monthly contract in January. Register and check out the class schedule online at cbcyclebarn.com or call 949.481.5438.

JAZZERCISE
Jazzercise is the original dance exercise phenomenon! Each 60-minute cardio workout routine blends dance and muscle toning movements choreographed to today’s hottest music, including Top 40, jazz, country, funk, and classics. The instructors make all the routines fun and easy-to-follow. Every class includes a gentle warm up and 30-minute aerobic workout. You can even get a jumpstart by learning the moves online atwww.jazzercise.com. Start for $0 in January at the beautiful studio at the OC Sailing & Events Center in Dana Point Harbor next to Baby Beach. Call Nancy at 949.492.7817 for more info.

ORANGE THEORY FITNESS
Orange Theory Fitness is group personal training at its best. It combines heart rate based, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) with resistance training for a complete, full-body workout in one hour. The professionally coached and expertly created workout templates take the guesswork out of getting stronger, more fit, and burning more calories. Although the workout changes daily, it is the same throughout each day so that you can take any of the many classes according to your schedule. Orange Theory Fitness has combined known, proven techniques in such a way to get the most out of an hour. Each member has their own heart rate monitor and their efforts are based on the 5 heart rate zones. It also targets specific amounts of times in each zone to induce EPOC, a biological state in which your body will increase calorie burn for up to 36 hours after the workout..

PILATES PLUS
Voted #1 Pilates Studio on Orange County Hotlist three years in a row, Pilates Plus brings its high-energy, “shirt-drenching” workout to Laguna Niguel. Integrating strength work and cardio into the principles of Pilates training, Pilates Plus OC offers classes seven days a week that are designed to lengthen, tighten and tone muscles, increase flexibility and cardiovascular endurance, and build a strong, supportive core. The patented Megaformer machine provides a focused approach to full-body conditioning in an addictive, 50-minute session, and Pilates Plus OC is one of the only studios in the area to offer this state-of-the-art equipment. Score two weeks of unlimited group classes for only $49 in January! Call 949.554.7272 or email info@pilatesplusoc.com for details.

RANCHO SAN CLEMENTE TENNIS & FITNESS CLUB
Tennis anyone? The Rancho San Clemente Tennis & Fitness Club has been in business for 28 years. The full-service tennis and fitness club features 19 lighted tennis courts, a weight room and an aerobics studio. The club offers a variety of adult and junior programs and tennis lessons for all ages. The club is a great place to meet new friends and get a workout, whether it’s on the tennis courts or in an exercise class. Through January 15, 2015, the club is offering a New Year’s Special with 75% off your initiation fee with a one-year membership. Find out more about the club at www.rsctennis.com, or better yet, stop by the club for a tour. Call 949.492.1515 to receive a membership application. See you on the courts!

TRAINING CAMP FITNESS
Training Camp Fitness is a unique and empowering facility that extends beyond the ordinary. Take advantage of yoga, barre and circuit training seven days a week, alongside a fully-equipped fitness center and a beautiful outdoor track and field. Located in a secluded setting in the heart of South Orange County, the facility is completely surrounded by trees, and the serene environment adds focus and natural beauty to your workout experience. Training Camp’s main goal is to help you relieve daily stress, get fit and encourage positive energy in your life. Sign up in January and receive your first month of yoga, barre and circuit training for only $49. Let go of any hesitations and visit or contact them today at 949.489-8100.

USSD/ZEN DOJOS
San Juan Capistrano’s largest martial arts studio offers classes and fitness programs for all levels of interest and ages starting at 3-years-old. Featuring Kempo Karate, Divas in Defense, Krav Maga Self-Defense Classes, a Children’s Life Skills Program, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, there’s something for everyone in the family. Zen Dojos was voted “Best Martial Arts Studio” in San Juan Capistrano in 2012 and Lead Instructor Marco O’Campo was named “Best Coach in San Juan Capistrano” by The Capistrano Dispatch. Chief Instructor Paul Benavidez has been teaching martial arts in the area since 1991. January is an ideal time to get started. The studio’s 2 for 1 special offer on all programs (for new students with paid enrollment) ends on January 31st. Call 949.240.6574 for more information.

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enoSTEAK – Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel
By Beth Fhaner

For steak and wine lovers, there’s no better way to kick off 2015 than with a visit to enoSTEAK, a chic steakhouse located at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. The intimate space features a floor-to-ceiling glass tower in the center of the restaurant, showcasing approximately 375 bottles of wine, along with several hundred others lining the back wall.

Executive Chef Pedro Contreras’s modern steakhouse menu focuses on seasonal fare and locally sourced ingredients, including prime beef from local farms committed to raising the highest quality breeds. Appetizers such as a fresh crab and avocado salad, or the asparagusIberico salad with poached egg, Iberico ham, and caviar crème fraîche make outstanding starters to your meal.

As for an entrée, you’ll have a difficult time selecting from one of the many mouthwatering, handcrafted meats and seafood dishes that will certainly tempt your taste buds. All of enoSTEAK’s beef is served with house-made signature compound butters to put the proverbial cherry on top. I favored the black truffle butter to complement my outstanding 9-ounce grass-fed beef tenderloin, while my dining companion raved about the Point Reyes blue cheese butter. Sustainable seafood options include a 9-ounce pan-seared sea bass and a butter-poached lobster. To accompany your entrée, enoSTEAK offers several “enhancements,” including the Toma White Cheddar Truffle Mac and Cheese, American wagyu fat steak fries, and sautéed organic mushrooms in a sherry cream, among others.

Diners seeking a sweet ending to their meal will be pleased to learn that the restaurant’s decadent desserts change every few weeks. The ultra-popular chocolate bread pudding—with a warm molten center—is a highly recommended offering that will properly cap off your main course.

Service at enoSTEAK is top-notch—friendly and attentive, without being intrusive. The overall dining experience is worthy of the five-star resort, although you don’t need to be a hotel guest to indulge. For epicureans seeking superb food and wine in a contemporary, elegant setting, enoSTEAK delivers on all levels. Bon Appetit!

enoSteaK located at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
1 Ritz Carlton Drive,
Dana Point
949.240.2000
enoSTEAK.com

pure. love. yoga.
By Laura Love

There’s a new yoga studio in town and it’s changing the game on how yoga studios operate. San Clemente welcomes pure. love. yoga., a studio dedicated to community, sustainability, service, and collaboration. Owner Angela Treaster purchased the former Pure Yoga with the vision of creating an authentic, accessible community. The business model is like nothing you’ll see in Orange County, with the studio functioning similarly to a co-op. Angela has gathered a team of well-regarded professionals to fulfill her vision, including Creative Director Laura Love, Seva Director Jamie Hanson, Retail Director Andrea Delancallotti, Media Director Marjorie Woodbridge and Student Advisor Golden Traut. Angela shared her thoughts on her unique business model, “My late husband, Ken, who was a very successful business man, always told me that you hire the people who are at the very best at what they do, and then you give them the freedom to do it. Ken was my inspiration for creating this space and his love for life, people, and following one’s passion is undoubtedly felt in the studio. He is the ‘love’ in pure. love. yoga.”

At pure. love. yoga., practicing asana is merely the beginning of your journey. This is not to say that the physical practice of yoga is unimportant at pure. love. yoga. The studio is home to some of the most sought after, knowledgeable yoga instructors in Orange County and it offers much more than chaturangas and downward facing dogs. The studio includes community members on many levels — from selling merchandise crafted by local artists to facilitating potlucks and neighborhood events. Pure. love. yoga. is all about people and every Saturday night it holds a live music yoga class spotlighting local musicians and the pool of remarkable talent available in south Orange County. This class has quickly become one of the most popular classes on the schedule.

In November, pure. love. yoga. partnered with CB CycleBarn in its 1st annual “Yoga-Tri-Give-A-Thon,” a fundraising event incorporating in-
door cycling, running, and yoga. 100% of the proceeds benefited With My Own Two Hands Foundation, a local non-profit organization established by one of the studio’s instructors, Lindsey Pluimer. This foundation has built an orphanage in Africa and is currently working on constructing a new school for underprivileged children. The successful, sold-out Yoga-Tri-Give-A-Thon went beyond raising funds for a worthy cause, it connected the community of San Clemente on a deeper level, demonstrating that together, we can make a difference.

In December pure. love. yoga. hosted a Local Artist Faire & Holiday Party, an evening designed to support local art and encourage students to mix, mingle, and shop more consciously for the holidays. The event was well-attended by students, friends and families and featured over 25 local vendors, live music, dancing.

Another core value of pure. love. yoga. is to be environmentally conscious. The studio only sells beverages in glass containers, has replaced paper towels with cloth ones in restrooms, utilizes 100% recycled paper for all printed materials and has moved toward paperless solutions for business operations. The studio also has a retail section that offers a variety of organic, eco-friendly, and local products and apparel.

Seva (sanskrit for “selfless service”) is also a value of pure. love. yoga. The studio holds a donation-based class every Sunday afternoon and 100% of all proceeds go to a local non-profit. This quarter, the studio is supporting With My Own Two Hands Foundation. “Our intention is to create something truly authentic, collaborative and accessible to all…where the physical practice of yoga is just one layer,” shares Creative Director, Laura Love. “Pure. love. yoga. is making yoga accessible to all students, from beginners to advanced practitioners and beyond.”

pure. love. yoga.
415 East Avenida Pico
San Clemente
(949) 492-5048
PureLoveYogaSC.com

 

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