Ross Medical Associates
By Shelley T. Hudson

Ross Medical Associates’ long and storied history as a community healthcare resource in Southern California just added a few more chapters. With its most recently opened clinic in San Juan Capistrano going strong and approaching its three-year anniversary, executives at Ross have made plans to take an already-impressive philanthropic record a step further—and this time, it’s personal. A new program aptly named “Ross Medical’s Heroes” has been instituted to support South Orange County’s partnership with our military neighbors. The doctors at all four locations have treated veterans and their families for years and many members of the Ross team have close personal military connections as well—including founder Dr. T.A. Ross, who came to California as a naval physician. Dr. Monica Harms of Ross’s Rancho Santa Margarita office is a navy reserves veteran, and Dr. Jeff Globus of the Mission Viejo clinic was a naval officer. CEO Samantha Jefferies’s sister and brother-in-law are both active duty soldiers in Afghanistan and her father and brothers are retired from the Air Force. These ties and others provide Ross Medical’s staff with a keen awareness of the unique circumstances and specific needs of military families. This sense of appreciation has motivated the Ross group for its own call to action.

For all of 2013, Ross Medical Associates will hold a fundraiser for military-related charities and support groups. The staff will accept tax-deductible monetary donations on behalf of the military charity of the donor’s choice. In addition, Ross offices will donate a portion of patients’ copayments to military organizations as part of their “CoPay It Forward” initiative.

This type of community commitment is nothing new to Ross Medical. The foundation upon which the business model is built is Dr. Ross’s philosophy that high-quality, family-based healthcare should be accessible and convenient. Dr. Ross also believed strongly in reinvesting into the local area in which he served. Dozens of schools, sports leagues and booster clubs—including AYSO, J Serra, Niguel Hills, San Juan Hills, Saddleback Valley Christian, Capo Valley Christian, San Clemente High and Dana Hills, to name a few—have received the generous support of Ross Medical Associates. In fact, Jefferies encourages students to bring in their sponsorship forms for consideration. “We want to participate in everything,” she says, “We want to be a true community partner.” Ross Medical will also continue to provide no-charge sports physicals to student athletes in 2013.

Another important component of Ross’s community-minded approach to healthcare is the senior outreach program. Jefferies, who also is aGerontologist, states, “When a senior becomes established as a patient, we can provide them with so much information regarding diet, exercise and disease prevention.” As a special incentive, Ross is offering free tetanus boosters to seniors throughout the month of January.

With Ross Medical’s fully-integrated state-of-the-art electronic record sharing, clinicians can address treatment for each patient holistically. All locations are connected on the same system, so follow-up care and diagnostic testing are more streamlined and comprehensive. For example, a student athlete with a sprained ankle might come to urgent care for an x-ray and a splint and learn that she’s due for an immunization. A heart patient might visit the office for a check-up and receive a dose of nutritional counseling.

Now that a federal healthcare overhaul is afoot, it’s even more important than ever to know the facts. More people will become eligible for covered preventative care early this year and insurance exchanges will become effective later in 2013. Ross Medical accepts most forms of insurance as well as Tricare, Medicare and Medicare Senior Advantage. Samantha Jefferies encourages patients to call with questions. “We’ll guide you to resources and help you through the process,” she offers, “We are your medical home. We see patients from one to 100 years of age and we want to help.”

Ross Medical Associates has offices in San Juan Capistrano, Ladera Ranch, Rancho Santa Margarita and Mission Viejo—all of which are open 365 days a year. The combination of a personalized family practice and an easily accessible urgent care is the realization of Dr. Ross’s vision. Visit a Ross Medical location soon and get a jump start on YOU for 2013!

For more information please vist: RossMedicalAssociates.com

Take a behind the scenes look of the Ross Medical Associates photo shoot!

Best places in South OC to get into shape
By Shelley T. Hudson

If you’ve opened every last present and did not get that new body you asked for, you’re in luck. With so many exercise options available in South OC, those toned arms and taut tummy are just a few weeks away. Get moving NOW, and be bootylicious by Spring Break!

BT FITNESS
BT Fitness is San Clemente’s premier private training studio and was voted in the top five for “best personal trainers” on the OC Hotlist. Through the combination of private personal training and challenging programming, including TRX Suspension, Fusion, and yoga, clients can achieve quicker results than with a single-exercise routine. BT is also the only studio in San Clemente to offer the revolutionary Proformer workout. Log on to www.bt-fit.com to take advantage of this month’s special offers. For more information please call 949.276.2706.

BELLA PILATES
With private and semi-private classes 7 days a week, Bella Pilates offers something for everyone, including children with special needs, seniors, high-level athletes and those in and out of shape. Bella Pilates provides individual, modified and safe workouts that will leave you energized, limber and lean. Pilates benefits those seeking injury rehabilitaion to those wanting overall improved health and quality of life. Get started in January with $99 per month unlimited group reformer classes or a 1-hour free private session for new clients. For more information please call 949.388.2747.

CB CYCLEBARN
This is the latest specialized studio to come to San Clemente, offering indoor cycling classes for all fitness levels. If you’re a little intimidated by large clubs or traditional spinning, check out CycleBarn’s non-impact classes and state-of-the-art Freemotion Carbon Drive bikes. Unlimited monthly memberships or 10 or 20-class packages are available, so it’s easy to add cycling to your existing regimen or become a dedicated CB cyclist. Hop on in January to take advantage of a “one month free” special offer. For more information please call 949.481.5438.

ANYTIME FITNESS
Convenience, round-the-clock access and individualized training from some of the most experienced and educated strength coaches in Orange County are the hallmarks of Anytime Fitness’s brand. Incentives like free zumba and yoga classes, 40 virtual classes, no enrollment fee, and two free personal training sessions have motivated even the most committed couch potatoes to jog right over. Nutritional counseling based on the “Precision Nutrition” program helps members develop a comprehensive approach to wellness—100,000 successful clients can’t be wrong! Reach Anytime Fitness in San Juan Capistrano: 949.481.2220 and San Clemente: 949.276.8888.

JAZZERCISE
The original dance workout is still one of the hottest workouts in town! Jazzercise classes overlooking the beautiful Dana Point Harbor are better than ever, with new routines and a powerful 60-minute total body workout. Burn up to 600 calories and change the shape and composition of your body while having fun with this jazz, strength training, Pilates, yoga, and kickboxing combo. Dance your way to the OC Sailing & Events Center and get ten classes for only $89 with no sign up fee for new customers. For more information please call 949.492.7817.

ZEN DOJO
Zen Dojo offers martial arts 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 at San Juan Capistrono’s largest martial arts studio. Founder and Chief Instructor Paul Benavidez has been teaching martial arts in the area since 1991. Zen Dojo 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 newspaper. 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. For more information please call 949.240.6574.

Bull Taco
By Cathy Villafana

After much anticipation, Bull Taco has opened its doors on El Camino Real in San Clemente’s North Beach area. With three sister restaurants in Carlsbad, Cardiff by the Sea and at San Diego’s Petco Park arena, this is its first foray into Orange County. Led by founderGreg Lukasiewicz, Bull Taco is charging full-steam ahead with its unique concept of “Inauthentic Mexican.” This new location not only breaks the Mexican restaurant mold, it blows it to smithereens.

Bull Taco’s specials read like a National Geographic Magazine index—minus the endangered species, of course. During my visit, the featured specials ranged from the exotic to the more tame, including: Alligator, Elk, Wild Boar, Halibut, Ahi Poke and Ceviche. Bull Taco’s fare takes a big leap from the Mexican food you may be accustomed to. Case in point: Sriracha, a staple in Thai cooking, is a key ingredient in many of the menu items.

In addition to having traditional chicken, pork and carne asada options, try steering toward the street tacos so you can sample different items from Bull Taco’s eclectic menu. The Lobster, Bacon, Chorizo Taco currently tops the list as most popular. I highly recommend the Breakfast Burrito, which received a nod in Sunset Magazine as a reader favorite. Need some heat? Dab or douse your grub with homemade salsas that span from “Mild” to “Ghost” (no bull… it might vaporize you).

Diners—if so inclined—can pull out a TV tray and eat in the Astro Turf-lined lounge area where the little ones can run wild. One fortunate guest will score the best seat in the house—a cozy upholstered chair directly facing a flat-screen TV. More traditional table seating is also available both inside and on the patio.

Open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Bull Taco offers beer and wine and serves up taco specials on Thursdays. Catering services cover everything from private events to large company parties, with convenient food pick-up/drop-off or on-site/off-site cooking. Pre-made or custom menus are available. Contact catering@bulltaco.com to learn more.

Capistrano Toyota
By Shelley T. Hudson

In ith the help of Capistrano Toyota’s familiar “Oh, Baby!” license plates and billboards, Orange County has watched owner Roger Hogan’s family grow from one grandchild to four. An expansion of a different variety is about to get underway and the timing couldn’t be better. Hogan is doubling the size of his operation just as Toyota unveils its most significant style overhaul in company history.

Capistrano Toyota’s sterling reputation for family-friendly service and no-stress sales was built one car at a time by Roger Hogan and his sons Roger, Jr., Stephen and Kyle. Although their strategic expansion into the neighboring property will add 60% more service capacity and double new and pre-owned car inventories, Hogan promises that his commitment to the highest levels of service will remain Capistrano Toyota’s core value. “What once was a small town family business is becoming a big-inventory dealership,” Hogan boasts, “and we’ll be able to offer even faster service and a greater selection for our customers.”

A major renovation of both the existing and new properties will coincide with Toyota’s rollout of several redesigned models, including the Avalon, RAV4 and Highlander. Among these, the fully reengineered Avalon is the most highly anticipated model by far. Toyota’s Chairman of the Board Akio Toyoda, whose wildly successful Scion models brought a youthful, edgy vibe to the brand, has led the Avalon’s transformation. This stylish, more sophisticated full-sized sedan will appeal to technophiles and car enthusiasts alike. An electric hybrid version of the Avalon is planned for release – a move which is sure to further solidify Toyota as the preeminent leader in eco-friendly automobiles.

The addition of overhauled RAV4s and Highlanders makes Toyota’s 2013 lineup the one to watch. Hogan’s enthusiasm is obvious. “This is truly a style departure for Toyota going forward,” he says, “Our vehicles have always been known for quality, reliability, and fuel efficiency. Now design is a reason to choose Toyota. It’s an exciting time to be in the business.” Roger also notes that he’s ordered a new Avalon for himself.

As part of its showroom-to-service-bay remodel and expansion, Capistrano Toyota has strengthened its commitment to the community as well. Hogan’s untethered support for charitable causes large and small seems to motivate him. “We just have to have these close local partnerships. Less money [is available] to go around than in the past and it’s important for the private sector to step it up.” Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort (CARE), the Festival of Whales, the San Clemente Ocean Festival, Meals on Wheels, and the C.A.R.E. Foundation have all benefitted from Capistrano Toyota’s generosity, as well as countless local schools and sports teams. Just last month, the dealership gave away it’s fourth Prius to the Ocean Institute, which educates kids from all over Southern California about the ocean’s delicate ecosystems. Hogan feels an especially strong personal connection with one particular group, however. He beams with pride when recounting his own boyhood days playing basketball at the Boys and Girls Clubs in Garden Grove and Buena Park. “My time at the Boys and Girls Clubs gave me purpose and had a major impact on me,” he recalls, “and I’m happy to do my part for them now.”

Roger Hogan recognizes this phase of his life as a growth spurt. With a new granddaughter—and billboard model—in his life, a retooled product line, an expanding showroom and service center, and his family by his side, he sees nothing but opportunity ahead. With lightning-fast service times and wallet-friendly offers like $10 Oil Change Tuesdays, he’s sure to bring his loyal following of customers on the journey right along with him. Visit Capistrano Toyota and you’ll see for yourself what drives their success.

Holiday Happenings in South OC

Seaing Is Believing
Climb aboard and take a 20-minute Harbor Boat Ride With Santa and his helpers on December 1st and 2nd from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Dana Wharf Sportfishing docks in the Dana Point Harbor. The Jolly One will take photos with the kids and listen to Christmas wishes as you cruise the Harbor. Bring your cameras and bundle up. A $3 donation to the El Camino Real Junior Woman’s Club is appreciated. For more information, call 949.496.5794 or 949.923.2255 or visit DanaPointHarbor.com or DanaWharf.com.

Lights, Camera, ACTION!
You’re not plugged in if the 38th Annual Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights passes you by. On December 7th, 8th, 14th and 15th at 7:30 p.m., boaters from all around Orange County will decorate their vessels and set sail on “A Hollywood Holiday.” Awards for Judges Choice, Best Theme, Best Use of Lights, Best Animation, Most Colorful, Most Original, Best Sailboat, Best Powerboat and the Yacht Club with the Most Entries will be presented. You can view the parade from anywhere in the Harbor or make a reservation at one of its restaurants for a cozy and warm spot indoors. If you want to get in on the action, but are short a boat, then purchase a ticket on a Dana Wharf Sportfishing craft at DanaWharf.com. For more information and parade registration, visit DanaPointHarbor.com.

Hot Diggity!
On December 1st from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., bring one or all of your pets to Aegis Living of Dana Point (26922 Camino de Estrella) for Pet Project Foundation’s 2nd Annual Santa Claus and Paws event. Local veterinarians will play Santa and pose for professional photos with your family and furry friends. Get your Christmas card photo done early and check out the Holiday Bowzarr offering gifts and treats for you and your pet.

You’ll have a second chance for a snapshot with Fido at the Santa Paws event on December 15th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Dana Point Harbor (El Torito Courtyard). Have your picture taken for a nominal fee and support the efforts of the Pet Project Foundation (PetProjectFoundation.org).

Child’s Play
Who says we don’t get snow in Orange County? Dana Point’s La Plaza Park (34111 La Plaza Street) will be filled with the fluffy stuff at the annual Winter Festival on Saturday, December 8th from noon to 7 p.m. The kids will have a ball at this winter wonderland featuring a petting zoo with actual reindeer, visits with Santa, cookie decorating, games, crafts, a holiday movie and the tree lighting ceremony. To learn more, call 949.248.3530.

Free For All
The annual Tree Lighting Celebration at Town Center Park begins on December 1st at 4:00 p.m. with pre-show events including choir, orchestra and dance performances by local high school students. The main event begins at 5:00 p.m. with a production directed and choreographed by David Green of Musical Theater University along with a special performance featuring Renee Bond. The Christmas tree will be lit at 5:45 p.m.

Following the ceremony, stroll over to San Juan’s historic Los Rios District for a free Christmas train ride and photos with Santa. A holiday marionette show will take place on Verdugo Street with show times at 6:30 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. Zoomars is offering complimentary admission to its petting zoo and Pathway to Hope will perform a live nativity at Zoomars at 6:15 and 7:00 p.m. For more information on these events, contact the City of San Juan Community Capistrano at 949.493.5911.

On A Mission
Celebrate the holidays with Mission San Juan Capistrano on December 1st from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in downtown San Juan Capistrano.Christmas at the Mission is a fun and festive event for the whole family featuring local musical performance groups, crafts for the kids and scrumptious food. Admission is $5.00; kids 4 to 11 are $3.00 and kids under 3 are free. Admission is also free to Mission and parish members and active military. Go to MissionSJC.com for more info.

CHRISTMAS AT THE CASA
Enjoy the spirit of the season at Christmas at the Casa on December 1st from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. You’ll find the Casa splendidly decorated for the holidays and Santa, Dickens carolers, hot chocolate, cookies, kid’s crafts and holiday entertainment will be provided. Admission is free. To learn more, visit CasaRomantica.org.

Decked Out Halls
On Sunday, December 2nd from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., feast your eyes on this year’s Christmas Home Tour in San Clemente’s Cyprus Cove Community. Sponsored by the Assistance League of Capistrano Valley, four beautifully decorated homes will supply plenty of holiday design inspiration for guests. Convenient parking is provided at Concordia Elementary School (3120 Avenida Del Presidente) and shuttle buses will transport attendees to and from the school’s parking lot and gated community. The last shuttle departs at 3:30. Wear comfortable, low-heeled or flat walking shoes. For tickets and for additional information, call 949.291.8408 or visit CapistranoValley.AssistanceLeague.org.

No Time Like The Present
Join the Family Assistance Ministries at the San Clemente Community Center for its annual Toy Drive and Annual Adopt-A-Family Gift Program on December 15th from 10 a.m. to noon. Local children in need will receive presents and lunch at this wonderful event. If you’re interested in attending or donating gifts, please call 949.492.8477 or go to Family-Assistance.org.

Now Serving
The 4th Annual Adopt A Marine Holiday Dinner takes place at 7 p.m. on December 16th. The San Clemente Watershed TaskForce and the Holiday Inn Express have partnered to host 100 Marines that are unable to go home for the holidays. Your $25 tax-deductible donation provides a Marine with a holiday dinner, live entertainment and an opportunity to win prizes. To make a donation, please go to SCwatersheds.com or call 949.366.2326.

Bright Idea
Mingle with friends, munch on cookies, sip hot chocolate and enjoy the songs of the season on December 1st from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at theChristmas Tree Lighting event at City Hall. St. Anne Holiday Strings, Dana Hills High School Dickens Carolers and Center Stage Dance Studio will furnish the music and entertainment. Children’s activities include crafts, face painting, cookie decorating, balloon twisting and more. Christmas’ most treasured celebrity will also be making an appearance! Get into the spirit of giving by donating a new toy to the families of the 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment and the USS McClusky.

Come To Light
Dust off the strands and dig out the ladder for Laguna Niguel’s Holiday Lights Decorating Contest. A $25 Home Depot gift card will be awarded to the best home in each of these categories: Most Traditional, Best Animation, Most Creative, Best Display of Lights, Best Display of Lights and Music and Best Homemade Display. In addition, a sign will be presented to the street that shows the most community spirit! The entry deadline is December 3rd at 9 a.m. and judging will take place on the 4th from 5 to 10 p.m. For more information and to download an entry form, visit CityofLagunaNiguel.org.

Get The Show On The Road
Strike up the band! Laguna Niguel’s Holiday Parade takes place on December 8th at 10 a.m. on Crown Valley Parkway between Nueva Vista and Crown Valley Park. Spirit-filled youth groups, classic auto clubs, beautiful equestrian units, patriotic and inspirational military tributes and, of course, marching bands will participate in this year’s “Honoring Our Heroes” themed event.

Take Note
Naughty or nice? Get Saint Nick’s answer through Laguna Niguel’s Letters to Santa program. Simply place your letter in the “North Pole” mailbox in front of the Crown Valley Community Park Office fromNovember 19th through December 13th and await Mr. Claus’ reply.

A Good Run
The Metrolink Holiday Toy Express Train will roll through South Orange County spreading holiday cheer! Take the entire family to see the spectacular holiday show, lights and Santa Claus’ arrival. The first local stop is San Clemente’s North Beach Station at 7:45 p.m. on December 8th. The train heads down the tracks on December 15th to Laguna Niguel at 5:45 and then San Juan Capistrano at 6:45. Please bring a new, unwrapped toy for the ABC7 and Southland Firefighters “Spark of Love Toy Drive.”

Vito’s Pizza & Italian Ristorante
by Cathy Villafana

Vito’s Pizza & Italian Ristorante, located in the heart of downtown San Juan Capistrano, captures the essence of Italian cuisine by importing key ingredients. This homage to the homeland and its inviting ambiance, creates an ideal place for a casual, weekday lunch, dinner with friends or a quick drink before catching a flick around the corner.

Vito’s offers a broad range of appetizers to suit a variety of tastes. Enjoy Italian classics like theCalamari or Bruschetta, or try the Burrata Mozzarella and Tomato starter with heirloom tomatoes and fig marmalade that fuses old world tradition with a modern twist.

Specializing in Chicago-style thin crust pizzas, Vito’s goes the distance by importing its dough all the way from Italy. For those preferring a more substantial bite, simply order a double crust and Vito’s will accommodate your request. There are a wide variety of pizzas to choose from, or you can build your masterpiece from what seems an endless array of toppings. Rumor has it that the Buffalo Chicken and Margherita pizzas are in a close tie for most popular ‘za.

Italian food lovers will delight in the many pasta and chef specialties found on the menu. Options include seafood, chicken, veal and vegetarian dishes. The Penne Caprese, the Chicken Penne Arrabiate, and the Tortellini Sunrise – combining marinara and alfredo sauces – are some of the current menu faves.

Happy Hour is 2 to 7 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 9 to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. On Mondays, Happy Hour is extended from 7 to 9 p.m. Enjoy half-priced bottles of wine with your entrées or pizza on Tuesdays and wind down on Wednesday with $1 glasses of wine (limit 2) and half-price signature drinks. On Thursdays, martinis are a mere $6. Vito’s is also a family-friendly destination where kids eat for only $1.99 on Sundays.

If you’re in need of a venue to celebrate that special occasion or to host a holiday gathering, Vito’s has a private dining area that’s available for parties. Delivery, catering, and a gluten-free menu makes Vito’s an easy and convenient choice!

Vito’s Pizza & Italian Ristorante
31781 Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano
949.481.8300 • VitosPizza.com

Keeping San Juan Capistrano Beautiful
By Shelley T. Hudson

Located across from the Mission in the historic downtown area, Brush Salon’s sleek, yet inviting vibe puts clients in a relaxed and comfortable state-of-mind. Maureen remodeled the space which now projects a spa-like atmosphere – complete with fresh floral arrangements, an abundance of burning candles and soothing décor. Immediately, guests sense that this is a salon where they’ll be pampered and treated to cutting-edge style.

Maureen sets her establishment apart from others by providing highly personalized customer care from a staff of experienced professionals. As a Tony & Guy-trained stylist, she knows a thing or two about a winning formula. “You have to be established to work here. We offer a very involved consultation. We consider bone structure, hair characteristics and lifestyle. Listening to clients is extremely important in this business and we take that responsibility seriously,” she asserts. Maureen partnered with her sister, Annmarie, to coordinate Brush’s daily operations and ensure that guests receive the ultimate salon experience. Continuing education is also a top priority and Maureen hired Artistic Director Mucio Vidales, a platform stylist for L’Oreal with Tony & Guy training, to oversee that department. Mucio keeps Brush’s team current on industry trends and makes certain they’re knowledgeable about the latest products and techniques.

As Brush Salon’s client base grew, so did its menu of services, offering style and convenience under one roof. Make-up artist Deanna Rene was brought on board to provide everything from tips for updating your daily cosmetic routine to creating knock-’em-dead special event looks. Medical esthetician AnnRae Novak brings an extensive medical training in diagnosing and treating problem skin. The salon’s hair extension specialists offer five methods of application, giving clients options that range from subtle volume to glamorous locks.

The Brush Salon team has developed a gathering place where clients feel welcomed and appreciated. Maureen’s effusive personality, the talented and accommodating staff and the careful selection of exclusive product lines like Kerastase, Unite, L’Oreal Professional and Jane Iredale organic cosmetics have fused seamlessly to produce this distinctive salon. “We’re fresh; we’re different,” says Maureen. “I want to establish relationships with the mothers and daughters in this community and give them something they need. I’m a San Juan girl,” she adds. These relationships are a key component of the salon’s success as well. Brush has partnered with the National Charity League to raise funds for local projects and schools and recently brought eight stylists to a fashion show at the St. Regis benefitting St. Anne School. The team provided make-up lessons for the girls and it was so much fun that Maureen plans to offer similar workshops at the salon as part of a community outreach program.

For a personal consultation or to learn more about Brush Salon’s services, call 949.496.8800 or visit BrushSalon.com.

The 35th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot

Don’t feel guilty about indulging in a second piece of pumpkin pie this Thanksgiving. Grab the flock, get your morning work-out in and feast on the festivities at the 35th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot.

Registration for the Dana Point Turkey Trot is now open. Runners everywhere are invited to celebrate and participate in “one of America’s best Thanksgiving Day runs,” according to Fitness Magazine. Known for its scenic routes, beautiful Southern California weather, and family-friendly activities, the Dana Point Turkey Trot has become an Orange County tradition. Produced by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, it’s the sixth largest Thanksgiving Day race in the nation, attracting more than 16,000 participants to its 5K, 10K, Mission Hospital Kids’ Gobble Wobble, and two-day health and wellness expo.

“This year’s Turkey Trot will be a whale of a time,” says Heather Johnston, executive director, Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, alluding to this year’s new theme for the Thanksgiving Day run. “For 35 years, the Dana Point Turkey Trot has been an Orange County tradition for thousands. Whether working toward your fitness goals, encouraging your kids to get active, visiting with friends old and new, or exploring the new health and wellness brands at the expo, we’ll have activities for the whole family. Expect some surprises this year along the course, including special photo opportunities, presented by our sponsors.”

Enhancements and surprises for this year’s Turkey Trot include detours of fun along the race route, family photo opportunities, live music, larger-than-life inflatable turkeys, and tech shirts and medals for all participants. Also new this year is an exclusive military discount program through a partnership with GovX.com. The collaboration with GovX.com, the largest online shopping destination for military, first responders and government personnel, offers all active, retired and former U.S. Armed Forces servicemen and women a 50% discount off registration fees through an effortless online verification process.

Fundraising proceeds from the 2012 Turkey Trot will benefit The Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group whose mission is to offer support and outreach to the 5th Marines and Sailors while deployed and to take care of their families left behind at Camp Pendleton. Consider sponsoring a Marine, their spouse or their child to run in the Turkey Trot or to provide dinner for a Marine’s family. To make a tax-deductible donation to this non-profit organization, go to DanaPoint5thMarines.com.

For more information, to register for the event or to become a volunteer, visit TurkeyTrot.com.

Surfing Santa Competition Benefits Children with Autism

Every year, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel celebrates the holidays in grand style. With surfing Santas, the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting celebration, and the festive Howl-iday Yappy Hour, the resort is the perfect place to ring in the season.

Santa Shreds
Get wet for a great cause at the 3rd annual Surfing Santa Competition on Saturday, November 17th at 7:30 a.m. Sport your best jelly belly and beard while riding the surf at Salt Creek Beach to benefit children with Autism.

This jolly competition raises funds for the non-profit organization – Surfers Healing. Founded by Izzy and Danielle Paskowitz, parents of an autistic son diagnosed at age three, Surfers Healing is dedicated to enriching the lives of people living with autism by exposing them to surfing.

The Competition features a $1,000 prize for first place in the Big Air “Flying Rudolph” category. Additional prizes will be awarded in each of the other categories: Santa’s Helpers (15 and under), Santa’s Elves (16 to 20-year-olds), Toymakers (ages 20+), and Yule Loggers (open long board). The entry fee is $40 per person in advance or $50 after November 15th. Surfers can register online at SurfingSantaContest.org.

Get on Board
In conjunction with the Surfing Santa Competition, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel hosts the Annual Holiday Surfboard Auction with proceeds supporting Surfers Healing. The auction features a selection of boards from surf legends, talented artists, celebrities and renowned musicians. This year’s auction includes signed boards from Laird Hamilton, Donavon Frankenreiter, Mark Healy, Taylor Knox, Greg Long, and Josh Kerr, as well as art boards by Roy Gonzalez, Paul Bond, Eric Diamond and Damien Fulton. Celebrity boards include one autographed by the cast of Hawaii Five-O, a board signed by the cast of Sons of Anarchy, and boards from Flea and Anthony Kiedis of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. All auction surfboards will be on display at the resort from November 17th through December 31st. To place a bid, go to BiddingForGood.com/SurfersHealing.

See the Light
The Ritz-Carlton welcomes the community to the 28th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting on Sunday, November 18th at 4 p.m. The celebration includes flipping the switch to illuminate the 50-foot tree, holiday music performed by The Jeeps and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus himself. Children can have their photo taken with good ol’ Saint Nick while giving him the rundown on their wish lists. Guests are encouraged to bring canned or non-perishable food items, toys, books and stuffed animals that will be donated to local Orange County charities.

You’re in for a Treat
Guests will also enjoy a gingerbread display created by the resort’s pastry team. More than 400 hours will go in to making this year’s “FantaSea-Land” themed display. The amazing work is crafted from gingerbread, sugar cubes, waffles, pretzels, cream puffs, rolls, cookies, crackers, cereal, macaroons, dried fruit, chocolate shavings, candy, candy and more candy.

Happy Howl-idays!
Four-legged friends will also have a chance to celebrate at theHowl-iday Yappy Hour on Saturday, December 1st from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. This gathering of canines and their companions offers Fido the opportunity to snag a photo-op with the “Big Dog” himself–Mr. Claus. Photos with Santa are $10 per canine and guests are asked to bring unopened, canned or dry dog food, treats or dog toys to be donated to the Shelter. These items will provide support and comfort to canines at the Shelter that have not yet found forever families.

Sharing is Caring
Throughout the season, the resort collects donations of canned goods, non-perishable food items, toys, books and stuffed animals that will be provided to local Orange County charities, including Miracles for Kids, Orange County Rescue Mission and Children’s Hospital of Orange County. In return for your donation, the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel will present you with the gift of an Anniversary Card, offering a 15 percent value in its restaurants, spa and retail shop, as well as complimentary day valet parking.

Hunter Steakhouse in Laguna Niguel
By Cathy Villafana

With 40 years’ experience under its belt, Hunter Steakhouse has earned a reputation for serving the “Best Prime Rib in Town.” With locations in Mill Valley and Oceanside, owner Mike Schneider continues the tradition here in South County with his newest restaurant on Town Center Drive in Laguna Niguel. Celebrating its one-year anniversary, Hunter Steakhouse’s notoriety will entice you to give it a try, but the food and hospitality will have you coming back for more.

If you’re seeking the true “Hunter” experience, try the award-winning Prime Rib, which is cut in-house, herb-crusted, slow-roasted and served with a unique creamed horseradish and au jus. If you’re in the mood for steak, Hunter’s got you covered—from New York Strip to Porterhouse—and everything in between.

The dinner menu has an impressive selection of entrées, including seafood, chicken, ribs and lamb. Served with soup or salad, vegetables and your choice of side, a delicious meal at a great value awaits.

For lunch, Hunter Steakhouse offers plenty of starters, from the traditional Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail and Calamari Fritti, to unique selections like Chipotle Mac & Cheese and Gouda Croquets. Guests also have a number of salads and sandwiches to choose from, as well as full entrées, including Prime Rib, Whiskey Peppercorn Top Sirloin and more.

Hunter Steakhouse is open 7 days a week. The elegant and comfortable decor, combined with private banquet rooms, is perfect for parties and meetings. Join them for Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and enjoy bottomless champagne and menu items ranging from $9 to $17. If you’re looking for someone else to prepare your holiday dinner, the restaurant is also open on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Check out Hunter Steakhouse’s daily Happy Hour from 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. featuring $1 off wells, beer, and house wine and $2 off appetizers. Enjoy a 4-course meal on Mondays and Tuesdays for a mere $23. Wednesday is half-price wine night and any bottle on the list is half off with the purchase of
two entrées.