Get that Bod in Shape!
By Shelley T. Hudson

Bella Pilates
Jump start your fitness regimen with the extensive class schedule offered at Bella Pilates. A variety of options including prenatal and rehabilitation classes will help build your new body using the principles of the core-centric practice of Pilates. A special package for new clients is available now—30 days of unlimited group reformer classes for only $99! Call (949) 388-2747 for more info!
Talega Village Center | San Clemente

Kardia Fitness
Make Kardia Fitness part of your New Year’s Resolution! Kardia’s FREE weight loss study is back by popular demand. Results are guaranteed from the proven system of accountability and professional guidance. The first 25 participants will receive 24/7 access to the private facility, two FREE fitness coaching sessions per month and two FREE weeks of semi-private training. Call (949) 661 – 1213 to start shedding those extra holiday pounds!
24582 Del Prado | Dana Point

Seafit Studio
Seafit Studio offers a unique twist to reformer Pilates that combines cardio and strength training in a circuit to strengthen, lengthen and tone the entire body. Each class is an energizing, low-impact 45-minute Megareformer session with pumping music and encouraging instructors. Come join the devotees and get addicted to fitness! Register online at seafitstudio.com and enjoy your first three classes for only $39, or sign up for a month of unlimited classes for only $159. Get started by calling (949) 388-0002 today!
31654 Rancho Viejo Rd. | San Juan Capistrano

Curves
Curves has been reinvented! Start your own success story with Curves Complete and recommit to a healthy lifestyle. Curves incorporates diet, exercise and motivation into a complete weight loss solution. Latin dance-inspired ZUMBA and traditional strength training exercises keep you on your toes, and the Curves Smart technology helps you track your progress. Programs start at only $10. Call (949) 366 – 3680 for your personalized fitness assessment.
101 Via Pico Plaza | San Clemente

Dana Point Jazzercise
Jazzercise sculpts, tones and lengthens muscles through a combination of dance-based cardio, strength training and stretching. This powerful and effective workout burns up to 600 calories in one fun, high energy session. Dana Point Harbor’s OC Sailing & Events Center provides the serene backdrop. Start for $0 down and $0 for your first month if you join in January. Call (949) 492 – 7817 or visit jazzercise.com for more info.
34451 Ensenada Pl. | Dana Point

Zen Dojos
Aside from alligator wrestling or snake wrangling, few activities combine the focus and physicality of the martial arts. Zen Dojos in San Juan Capistrano can help you learn to conquer any potential predators that may be lurking about in your world. They offer programs in Kempo Karate for all ages and adults only classes such as Krav Maga, Muay Thai kickboxing and Jiu-Jitsu. Come in and start training with the best. Challenge yourself to an awesome fitness experience and take advantage of their speical, $100 off any adult program for new clients!
Marbella Plaza | San Juan Capistrano

Training Camp
Training Camp is a comprehensive fitness center featuring a hot yoga studio, bootcamps, personal training and an outdoor track and field. The facility is tucked away on two lush acres in San Juan Capistrano bordering San Clemente. Come get lost in this unique setting without leaving the neighborhood. Mention this article at the front desk and get a FREE week! Call (949) 489-8100!
34000 Via De Agua | San Juan Capistrano

North Beach Kettlebells
North Beach Kettlebell’s 45-minute power session combines strength, flexibility, mobility and cardio fitness. The HKC and RKC-certified instructors implement a variety of kettlebell, body weight and TRX Suspension training exercises for a head-to-toe workout that is both fun and rewarding. With its beautiful, open facility, NBKB provides a motivating atmosphere for clients at all levels of fitness. Join in January and score an intro class plus two weeks FREE (for new clients)—a $150 value! Visit nbkettlebell.com and use promo code DISH12 to take advantage of this exclusive offer.
520 N El Camino Real | San Clemente

Thai Palace…Sweet and Spicy
By Cathy Villafana

If you are a Thai food lover looking for the newest hot spot (pun intended), be sure to check out Thai Palace located on the corner of La Pata and East Avenida Pico in the Talega area of San Clemente. Nearly open for a year, Thai Palace is sister to Thai Paradise, which opened in San Clemente 10 years ago.

My friend and I found ourselves amongst the busy lunch crowd, who is clearly in the know about the great lunch deals, but more importantly, the tasty dishes we were about to try.

We started our meal with a Thai staple — vegetable spring rolls. Served with a sweet plum sauce, these light-tasting rolls were crispy on the outside and filled with fresh vegetables and glass noodles. If you prefer a decadent appetizer, opt for the Ching Chang Thong. The deep-fried wontons are filled with avocado and cream cheese and served with a plum sauce and cucumber chunks. You’ll be arguing over who gets the last one!

Next we tried a bowl of Tom Kar soup, the ingredients of which may seem eclectic to the inexperienced Thai eater, but the final result is a pleasing flavor that grows with each bite. We chose shrimp to accompany this delicious mixture of fresh vegetables simmered in coconut milk, lemon grass, lime juice and spices.

We would be remiss if we did not try a curry dish, and Panang Curry certainly filled the bill. The tangy flavor and increasing heat from this dish was a pleaser with its creamy sauce, large chunks of chicken and fresh cut green beans. Clearly, Thai Palace has found that sweet spot where refined flavors and spiciness (if you choose) come together for a great meal.

Thai Palace’s lunch specials can’t be beat – ranging from $8 to $10 for an entrée, green salad, fried wonton and rice. Whether you try one of the menu’s nearly 75, MSG-free selections for lunch, dinner, take-out or delivery, you will not be disappointed by the value and rich flavors. Gluten-free options are also available upon request.

Capistrano Toyota, A Hogan Family Tradition
By Shelley T. Hudson

2011 has been a banner year for Roger Hogan, Sr., owner of Capistrano Toyota, and 2012 looks to be even bigger. His family is growing early next year, so he’ll have two more grandchildren to include in his familiar “Oh, Baby! Where Great Deals are Born Every Day” ad campaign. Hogan’s dealership is heading toward a significant expansion, and he’s beaming with excitement about Capo Toyota’s partnerships with the CARE Foundation, the Ocean Institute and a host of other important local charities and organizations.

For every car sold in October, Capistrano Toyota promised to donate $100 toward breast cancer research. By Halloween, a whopping $43,600 in donations had been generated and Hogan couldn’t be happier. Also benefitting from Capo Toyota’s generosity is the CARE Foundation, which supports Capistrano Unified Schools. A donated Prius was raffled off in October for CARE (the second one this year!) at the “Taste for Education” event. Hogan says he’s been impressed with the foundation’s volunteers, who “give hundreds of hours of their own time” in the name of local children.

He also trumpets the efforts of Dana Point’s Ocean Institute, which educates over 100,000 students each year about marine science and maritime history in hands-on labs. Capo Toyota recently presented its third Prius to the Ocean Institute as part of the “Million Dollar Home Giveaway” fundraiser.

Sharing his success with those who surround him seems to be Hogan’s favorite habit. He’s especially animated when discussing his family. “They’re my reason to keep this going,” he says, referring to the close-knit clan. “It’s a rarity when a parent gets to share not only his own success, but to share in the success of his sons. My sons have taken our business to a whole different level.”

Hogan credits the camaraderie of his loyal staffers—including many family members—with the dealership’s reputation for customer service excellence. Capistrano Toyota is one of only a few local dealerships that is still family-owned and Hogan is convinced that this “family business” atmosphere makes a difference to buyers throughout the process of purchasing a new vehicle. “One can never undervalue customer service,” he asserts, “and it’s more important than ever now that customers have so many options. They just deserve a good experience.”

As exciting as this year has been for Capo Toyota, 2012 looks to be even bigger. The dealership is planning a major expansion in April, when the showroom and service operation will have an additional two acres of breathing room. Capistrano Toyota will take over the adjacent property and have an opportunity to provide even more choices for customers. Hogan describes the renovation as “a move out of necessity” and is looking forward to providing even better customer service, a wider selection of new and pre-owned vehicles and a quicker turnaround time in the service department.

A “green” showroom is planned as one of the changes that will come with the larger dealership. With Toyota’s rollout of several new Prius models, the timing is ideal. Capo Toyota has already seen a surge in interest for these eco-friendly poster-cars with the release this Fall of the Prius v. The highly-anticipated plug-in version is expected to arrive in the beginning of 2012—you can even pre-register online at www.capovalleytoyota.com. The Prius c model will be smaller, lighter, sportier and more affordable- making it a great fit for the younger market. This latest incarnation is rumored to boast even higher gas mileage than current Prius models, which is—gasp!—50 MPG.

33395 Camino Capistrano
San Juan Capistrano
877.857.0134
www.CapistranoToyotaScion.com

Not Your Ho Hum Holiday
By Shelley T. Hudson

Sail Over To The Harbor
The city’s 37th Annual Holidays in the Harbor kicks off with its Holiday Open House on December 2nd from 4 to 8 p.m. Family activities including face painting, crafts and live music will entertain grownups and kids alike. Santa will sit for photos, so remember to bring your camera. Come on back to the harbor the next day for a 20-minute Harbor Cruise with Mr. Claus. Boat rides start at the Dana Wharf Sportfishing docks and your $3 donation will benefit the El Camino Real Jr. Women’s Club. Cruises depart regularly from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on December 3rd and 4th. If you miss these photo-ops, you’ll have another opportunity at the El Torito courtyard on December 8th and 15th from 3 to 5 p.m. for your official Photos with Santa.

Rock The Boat
The Boat Parade of Lights in Dana Point Harbor is sure to get the holiday party started with this year’s theme: “Santa Salutes the 70’s.” Boaters will deck their vessels in elaborate light displays and compete for prizes. View the parade from anywhere in the harbor or watch from one of the restaurants. Be a part of the parade and reserve a spot on one of Dana Wharf Sportfishing’s boats and wave at the adoring crowds while you cruise. Visit www.danapointharbor.com for a parade application and for event information. The parade sets sail on December 9th, 10th, 16th and 17th.

Happy Pawlidays!
The Santa Paws and Claws event is new this year and benefits the Pet Project Foundation. Bring your furry friend to Aegis in Dana Point (26922 Camino de Estrella) on December 3rd from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or to the harbor on the 10th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for an afternoon of photos and fun. For more information, visit www.petprojectfoundation.org or call 949.595.8899.

Reindeer Games
The Dana Point Winter Festival and Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place on December 10th from noon to 7:30 p.m. at La Plaza Park. Highlights include a craft faire, real snow, a petting zoo (with actual reindeer!), cookie decorating, children’s crafts, carnival games and entertainment all day long. Be sure to make time for a visit with Santa and catch the special holiday movie that starts at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call 949.248.3530.

Turn Up The Lights
Pull out the holiday decor and do the Griswalds proud. Power up for the 12th annual Holiday Home Decorating Contest and vie for the best on the block in creativity, originality, and overall enthusiasm for the winter holidays. Judging will be done by the Dana Point Youth Board on December 16th from 5 to 7 p.m. Awards will be given to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place homes. Call 949.248.3512 for more information.

Artfully Done
The Sawdust Festival’s Winter Fantasy is a must-see local tradition. Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts while you enjoy entertainment, art demonstrations and snacks from four outdoor cafes. Over 170 exhibitors will display and sell wares, including jewelry, clothing, ceramics, paintings and sculpture. Craft booths will keep little ones busy and St. Nick is rumored to stop by to see who’s being naughty or nice. Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for kids, but you can slide in for free on Sundays with the donation of a new unwrapped toy. The Winter Fantasy runs December 3rd, 4th, 9th, 10th and 11th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Jingle All The Way
The City of San Clemente will present its annual Santa’s Village by the Sea shindig at the Community Center on December 3rd. Enjoy a real snow hill with sledding, a chat with Santa and refreshments. The fun starts at 1 p.m. and continues until the tree lighting at 5 p.m. Afterward, follow the elves down Candy Cane Lane for Christmas at the Casa from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Casa Romantica. The venue will be decorated in holiday finery and will offer hot chocolate, cookies, crafts and caroling.

Handle With Care
The Annual Toy Drive and Adopt-A-Family Gift Program is a great opportunity to help those in need. Family Assistance Ministries will distribute new clothes and shoes to needy families from 10 to 11 a.m. on December 17th at 100 N. Calle Seville. Go to www.family-assistance.org for donation information and to read about the work this organization does all year long.

Go To Town
The Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony goes down December 3rd from 4 to 9 p.m. at Historic Town Center Park and features roaming entertainment, crafts, face painting, Santa photos, train rides and marionette performances. ZOOMARS is sponsoring a petting zoo and hay ride and disabled adults from “Pathway to Hope” will enact a living nativity. Downtown businesses will stay open until 9 p.m. to help get your holiday shopping under way.

Mission Accomplished
Mission San Juan Capistrano will host its annual Christmas at the Mission tradition on December 3rd from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Local choirs and bands will provide entertainment, food vendors will offer refreshments and your little elves can visit Santa’s Workshop. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children and can be purchased at the Gate House.

A Train Of Thought
For the young and young at heart, Metrolink’s Holiday Toy Express will once again make local stops to spread holiday cheer on Sunday, December 4th. The Firefighter’s Spark of Love Toy Drive coordinates with Metrolink to collect and distribute toys to kids who might go without otherwise. The light-bedecked Metrolink will come screeching into the station with candy cane-bearing elves on board. Come down to your local stop with the kids in tow and an unwrapped toy for Spark of Love. The train will stop at the San Juan Capistrano station at 7 p.m., San Clemente’s North Beach at 7:45 p.m. and San Clemente Pier at 8:20 p.m.

Home For The Holidays
The Assistance League of Capistrano Valley’s 6th Annual Christmas Home Tour takes place on December 4th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tour four palatial hillside homes and sample food tastings from The Cellar, Hapa J’s, Sundried Tomato and more. The $35 ticket can be purchased at www.capistranovalley.assistanceleague.org. Proceeds benefit Capistrano Unified Schools and Camp Pendleton Marine families. The tour takes place rain or shine and comfortable, flat shoes are recommended.

Happy Holidays from The Local Dish Magazine!

St. Anne Preschool
By Shelley T. Hudson

One institution that may make the decision for your child’s preschool through 8th grade education a little easier is St. Anne School in Laguna Niguel. It’s premium academic experience with equal emphasis on all aspects of a child’s development—cognitive, social, emotional and spiritual—demonstrates a well-rounded approach to addressing the needs of the whole child. By providing family-friendly flexibility, a variety of extra-curricular activities, state-of-the-art technology and competitive pricing, St. Anne proves to be an exceptional value as well.

Head of St. Anne School Randy Adams and Preschool Director Diane Banker describe their programs as progressive and dynamic. Banker is enthusiastic when outlining the fully-accredited preschool program. Its mission is to provide a “developmentally appropriate” course of learning that addresses a child’s individual needs. The preschool environment is designed to be equally academic and social, with an emphasis on the teacher-child relationship. “St. Anne Preschool is a happy place where children know they are loved and respected,” says Banker.

A variety of scheduling options are available at St. Anne. The five-day preschool program “provides continuity and exposure to the full spectrum of programs,” says Banker, “but we offer two-day and three-day programs as well,” to optimize flexibility for parents. St. Anne even has a drop-in option for parents who want to add days to their child’s schedule. The 92% retention rate from preschool to kindergarten suggests that Banker’s team has created a successful formula that has struck a positive chord with parents.

Philosophy:
St. Anne Preschool provides a warm, nurturing and loving environment that focuses on the whole child. The concept of learning by doing, by exploration and through hands on experience are fundamental to its mission. Banker believes that children are natural learners and the best way to teach them is to build on play and their natural learning styles.

Curriculum:
The preschool offers a high-quality developmentally appropriate program for children ages 2.9 to 6 years of age. The program implements a curriculum that is consistent with the school’s goals for children and incorporates concepts and skills to promote development and learning. The daily schedule provides opportunities for children to learn individually and in groups according to their developmental needs and interests. The school provides the kind of variety and stimulation children need throughout the areas of language, math, science, art, music, drama and motor skills. Preschoolers also have fun, hands-on extra-curricular choices in cooking, art, yoga, Spanish and jewelry making that are tailored toward thirsty, young minds. Although St. Anne welcomes students of all faiths, the Catholic fundamentals of character-based religious education are also an integral part of the curriculum.

Technology:
Adams cites St. Anne’s implementation of the latest technology for educational institutions as a competitive edge. Everything from class assignments to lunch menus can be readily accessed online. Adams plans to expand the use of this invaluable tool in the coming years as an extension of St. Anne’s “partnership with parents.” In preschool classrooms, computers are introduced at age appropriate levels as an educational tool for developing core skills.

Day Care:
Working parents also get a helping hand with St. Anne’s on-campus Day Care facility. The option to drop kids off as early as 7 a.m. and pick them up as late as 6 p.m. offers parents a convenient and seamless transition along with the peace of mind that their child is in a safe environment. With drop-in, part-time and full-time options available, parents have the flexibility of utilizing the service to suit their schedules. In addition to supervised activities and play, the Day Care Program offers assistance with homework, allowing children to maximize their extended time on campus.

Open House:
St. Anne School’s Admissions Open House is Thursday, January 19th from 9 to 11 a.m. For a private tour and for more information about St. Anne, please call 949.276.6783.

St. Anne School
32451 Bear Brand Road
Laguna Niguel
949.276.6700
www.st-anne.org

The Dana Point Turkey Trot

If you’re planning to gobble down a big Turkey Day feast, then start the day by burning off a few calories so that you can enjoy that second piece of pumpkin pie guilt-free. Not only is the Dana Point Turkey Trot a fun and festive race, but a great way to give back to the local community.

The 34th Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot, a Southern California tradition, is fast approaching. Named “one of America’s best Thanksgiving Day runs” by Fitness Magazine, the event is known for its scenic routes, beautiful weather and family-friendly activities. It attracts more than 16,000 participants each year, including friends and family, to the 5K, 10K, Kids’ Gobble Wobble and finish line festival.

This year, the Dana Point Turkey Trot is unveiling a wide array of race enhancements for the Thanksgiving Day run. Organizers, including the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce and RUN Racing, have joined together as a team to incorporate participants’ feedback, offering runners what is expected to be the biggest and best race to date.

The 2011 Turkey Trot race will feature wave starts based on anticipated race times to alleviate congestion, stroller-specific wave starts, and widening of the lane for the finish-line shoot. For the first time, every participant will receive a finisher medal. In addition, the event will include a two-day health and fitness expo and finish line festival for all participants. The health and fitness expo, held on November 23rd and 24th, will offer an abundance of exhibitor booths including the latest and greatest the fitness and health industry has to offer, as well as industry expert speakers. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about topics ranging from proper shoe fitting to nutrition, and will even have the chance to get a book signed by Sarah Reinertsen, the first female leg amputee to complete the Ironman Triathlon World Championship in Kona, Hawaii.

The event is also helping to fundraise for the Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment and Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County, accepting donations for each through the on-line registration. The Dana Point Turkey Trot is currently offering a registration discount to all active duty Camp Pendleton Marines, as well as a Thanksgiving Day dinner for the 5th Marine Regiment personnel and their families.

For more information about the 34th annual Dana Point Turkey Trot, to register for a race, or to become a sponsor, visit www.turkeytrot.com. You may also follow the event on Twitter at www.twitter.com/turkeytrot and on Facebook at facebook.com/danapointturkeytrot. Participants and supporters are encouraged to download the Dana Point Turkey Trot Cause Layout at www.causelayout.com. For every original download of the Facebook layout, $1 will be donated to the Dana Point Turkey Trot.

www.turkeytrot.com

Dress up your digs…
By Shelley T. Hudson

Tucked away in an industrial section of Mission Viejo is Ambiance Home Collection’s 30,000 square foot warehouse packed with furniture, home accessories and everything in between. For over 11 years, matriarch of the family operation and owner/designer Soraya has collaborated with furniture manufacturers from all over the world to offer an expansive collection of furnishings that suit the taste, budget and style of even the most discriminating customer.

Ambiance is a true warehouse store in every sense; the sheer volume of business and long-term relationships with manufacturers enable Ambiance to deliver deep discounts to customers, even on high-end merchandise. The in-house designers provide on-the-spot consultations and with an extensive swatch library and 900 bolts of in-stock fabrics, coordinating everything from ottomans to window treatments is convenient and easy.

You’ll find an incredible array of styles at Ambiance—from traditional or contemporary, Hollywood Regency to transitional, old-world to modern. Hundreds of chandeliers and piles of colorful pillows are on hand to complement your sofas, chairs and tables. The busy workroom will even reupholster or slipcover your old furniture and bring it back to life with an updated fabric. Soraya’s son, Navid, emphasizes Ambiance’s commitment to personal service. “We want our customers to end up with the perfect piece,” he says, “That’s our very best advertising.”

If you’re looking to freshen up a tired room or transform your home in time for the holidays, Ambiance Home Collection’s vast selection of home furnishings and accessories is a great place to start. To see why Ambiance has furnished homes in Orange County and beyond for more than a decade, take the time to visit their showroom for yourself. They’re open Monday through Friday from 10 – 6 p.m., Saturday from 10 – 5 p.m. and Sunday by appointment.

To mark their 11th anniversary, Ambiance is offering 20%-50% off all furnishings and home accessories. They will also create any size custom pillow at their on-site workroom (including zipper and trim at no extra charge) for just $25 each.

23811 Via Fabricante
Mission Viejo
949.455.0501
www.ambiancehomecollection.com

Paradise Jewelers
By Shelley T. Hudson

Debbie & Rick Dunning’s Paradise II Jewely Boutique in downtown San Clemente has answered the call for unique jewelry and accessories at affordable prices.

The couple’s first business, Paradise Jewelers- also in San Clemente, was a success right from the start. Their high-end fine jewelry and estate offerings have adorned the local community for over seven years now. Debbie and Rick saw an opportunity, however, to expand their current business and appeal to a wider audience as customers increasingly asked about more affordable gift options. To meet the demand, Paradise II was born.

The timing was perfect. Debbie jumped on an ideal space on busy Avenida Del Mar and hit the ground running. Even after three years, Debbie says, “I’ve never even had to advertise; business is booming.” Her wide selection of affordable sterling silver jewelry is culled from all over the world and has become somewhat of a signature. In fact, Paradise II is both a local favorite and a regular stop for tourists. “People say this is their go-to for fun, affordable gifts,” Debbie enthuses. The extensive inventory and variety of unique merchandise make Paradise II an easy shopping choice, especially for the holidays.

Many of Debbie’s loyal customers stop in regularly to check out the latest collections from her exclusive lines. Dancing with the Stars designer Anne Koplik’s pieces, for example, feature hand enameling, replicas of heirlooms and elaborate, Swarovski-crystal studded dragonfly and butterfly designs. Paradise II is also one of the only retailers in the area to carry the exclusive “Mary Francis” line of beaded evening bags. Each one is named and numbered and produced in limited quantity. The bags are considered art pieces by many collectors and they’ve been carried by many celebrities at red carpet events.

Ohio natives Debbie and Rick made San Clemente their adopted home and have embraced the community wholeheartedly. They passed through a number of seaside locales ten years ago while looking for their slice of SoCal heaven. They stopped for lunch in San Clemente one day, Debbie says, “And we knew this was it… we just can’t believe we didn’t get here sooner!”

Paradise II Jewelry Boutique
210 Avenida Del Mar
San Clemente
949.361.6662
www.paradisejewelers.com

Dr. Anton
By Shelley T. Hudson

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, it’s an ideal time to appreciate the health and happiness of our loved ones and to recognize the selfless acts of others. In September of this year, local plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Anton gave families halfway around the world a lot to be grateful for.

In conjunction with Operation Smile and a mobilized team of surgeons, medical professionals and caring hearts, Dr. Anton set out on a journey to Kenya, Africa to bring smiles to children throughout the region. Working alongside local plastic surgeons at Provincial General Hospital in Nyeri, Kenya, the team provided hundreds of patient evaluations and performed operations to correct cleft lip, cleft palate and other facial and bodily deformities. Reconstructive surgeries are especially needed in this area, as nearly one in 500 children are born with a cleft lip or cleft palate.

What drives a successful plastic surgeon with a thriving Newport Beach practice to travel to a third world country to treat patients? Anton’s response: “The gift of seeing such dramatic change in the lives of these young children, both physically and psychologically, is indescribable. Children who may once have been ostracized because of their conditions now have an opportunity to lead happy and productive lives.”

In addition to Dr. Anton’s obvious love of children, his mission to Kenya allowed him, “The opportunity to partner with doctors of similar ilk that have voluntarily taken hiatus from their surgical practices. I was fortunate to get to know them on a personal level – sharing philosophies on politics, spirituality and humanity. I have formed friendships through Operation Smile that I expect will last forever,” shares Anton.

Dr. Anton’s relationship with the international charity began in Liberia over 21 years ago when he provided medical assistance to victims of the war-torn nation. “Working with Operation Smile in Liberia was a life-altering experience,” says Anton. “I was humbled by the spirit and determination of people who faced incomprehensible obstacles. That experience will stay with me for a lifetime.” 

In February 2010, Anton once again partnered with Operation Smile in Hinche, Haiti to offer medical and surgical treatments to post-earthquake survivors. Due to Operation Smile’s remarkable ability to transport supplies and medical personnel internationally, Dr. Anton readily volunteered his expertise because he “was confident that the effort would have a direct impact on the lives of the Haitian people. Operation Smile delivers medical services that make a difference. I’ve witnessed it firsthand.”

In stark contrast to Dr. Anton’s recent trip to Kenya, he was featured on The Real Housewives of Orange County last season when he performed a revisional breast augmentation surgery on Peggy Tanous —
the newest housewife to join the reality series. When asked to comment on the seemingly disparate experiences, he said, “Reconstructive procedures, whether in wealthy Orange County or poverty-stricken Kenya, maintain a common thread; the psychological component affects all aspects of a patient’s life. I am just fortunate to be able to help those who want and need it.”

Anton Aesthetics
361 Hospital Road, Suite 427
Newport Beach, CA
949.722.1967
www.antonaesthetics.com

Kaleyard – Healthy Chinese Cuisine
By Shelley T. Hudson

If you’ve missed your favorite Chinese restaurant in Dana Point, you’re in luck! After eight years in the former Hollywood Video center on Coast Highway, Helena Ha’s Kaleyard has moved to a new location on Niguel Road in the Clubhouse Plaza. Helena and chef/business partner Kelly offer generous portions of authentic Chinese cuisine at family-friendly prices. They’ve kept all the local favorites on the extensive menu, including fifty “lite and lowfat” items, delivering a healthy and tasty Chinese option to the local area.

On my recent visit, my friend and I sampled a variety of Kaleyard’s most popular dishes. Our appetizer sampler included Vegetable Egg Rolls, Chicken Dumplings, Scallion Pancakes and Aromatic Shrimp. The crispy shelled egg rolls were packed with fresh, crunchy vegetables. The dumplings were as light as air and stuffed with perfectly seasoned chicken, accompanied by a sweet, tangy sauce for dipping. The scallion pancakes were a more substantial choice and served with a very spicy hot mustard sauce. We enjoyed the Aromatic Shrimp appetizer as well, which was sautéed in a sweet and spicy reduction and lightly fried. One bite, and I understood why this is a Kaleyard signature dish.

My companion’s entrée was a hearty serving of Mongolian Beef. His squeaky-clean plate was an obvious signal that the tender strips of beef sautéed with grilled onions and scallions in a piquant brown sauce was a hit. The Mixed Vegetables with Tofu was my choice for lunch – and it did not disappoint. After indulging in such a decadent variety of starters, I relished the lighter fare. The seasonal vegetables were cross-cut into bite-sized pieces and sautéed in a feather-light sauce with soft tofu. At only 150 calories and ½ gram of fat, this well-portioned dish is a dieter’s dream!

The lunch specials at Kaleyard are an exceptional value. Most entrées come in at around $8 and include salad, choice of soup, egg roll, dumpling and rice. From 4 – 6 p.m. on weekdays, an early bird special offering 20% off the entire menu is easy on the wallet and a terrific excuse for an early dinner. If you’re interested in eating Kaleyard’s cuisine at home, take out and free delivery (on $30 minimum orders) are also available.

31341 Niguel Rd #E
Laguna Niguel
949.493.8586
www.kaleyard.com