San Clemente Fiesta Street Festival
By Shelley T. Hudson

Bring the whole family to Avenida Del Mar on Sunday, August 14th, for the 58th Annual Fiesta Street Festival in San Clemente. This summer tradition is an all day event, starting at 9:00 a.m. and finishing with the last band at 7:00 p.m. A full schedule of children’s activities, live entertainment, arts and crafts and cooking (and eating!) contests are planned for this year’s Fiesta, which is sure to draw a huge crowd.

Kids.
Start your day early with the little ones, and enjoy a bevy of kid-friendly activities, including jump houses, rides, games, face-painting and a petting zoo. Roaming balloon artists, jugglers and clowns will be on hand to keep them entertained all day.

Contests.
Older kids (and much, much older kids) with a competitive spirit may want to get in on the action and join the jump rope contest, diaper derby, hula hoop contest, egg hunt, tortilla toss and piñata whacking contest. If you bring your iron stomach and a pocket full of antacids, sign up for the Baskin-Robbins ice cream-eating, pie-eating, pickle-eating or Cassano’s pizza-eating contests.

Music.
The action kicks up a notch in the afternoon with live music thumping throughout downtown and the estimated 35,000 attendees out in force. Music and live entertainment are a key component of the festival with three stages hosting a full schedule of bands. Headliners this year will include perennial party band Flock of 80s, Journey tribute band Don’t Stop Believin’, Alter Ego, Neon Nation and Jann Browne. Additional bands featured at the 2011 Fiesta Street Festival include The Cholulas, Steel Toed Slipperss, ocVertigo, Orange Solutions, The Badfooters, Nail Drivers, All up in There, The Dreams, Lessons from Zeke, Sea Cure, Rod & the Pistons and Lucidiom. Live performances from the San Clemente Dance & Performing Arts Center, the Boys & Girls Dance Troupe and the Solid Hip Hop Dance Crew round out the stage entertainment.

More!
Art enthusiasts can peruse the arts and crafts show, which will feature hand-crafted merchandise from talented Southern California artists. A variety of international food vendors will keep foodies intrigued and the annual Salsa Challenge contest will be back and hotter than ever, featuring competitions for both restaurants and amateurs. A Classic Car and Motorcycle Show will draw motorheads from near and far as well. This extravaganza truly features something for everyone!

TO LEARN MORE: 949.492.1131or visit scchamber.com

Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo
Come along for the ride as world champion cowboys compete in America’s richest rodeo. Forone weekend only, the nation’s top rodeo cowboys, including numerous current World Champions, will be riding into San Juan Capistrano to compete in the 11th Annual Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo.

On Saturday and Sunday, August 27th and 28th, some of the best rodeo action in the nation will take place as more than 30 champions compete in each of the following events: bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, bull riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling and team roping. In addition to the competition, attendees will be invited to enjoyold-fashioned family fun with games, music, an evening concert with dancing and more than 50 vendors. Proceeds from the rodeo will benefit local charitable organizations.

“We attract the world’s best cowboys to San Juan Capistrano, year after year,” says Gilbert Aguirre, Rodeo Committee President. “Champion cowboys rarely miss a Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo and will be competing once again this year. We feel honored to have the opportunity to host these champions and many others in one of the best rodeo venues available!”

Sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association (PRCA), the Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo has earned a reputationas “the place to be” every August. Cowboys will compete for their share of the $200,000 purse as they try to secure a spot at the National Finals Rodeo, held every December in Las Vegas.

“Hosting the Rodeo is our way of sharing our tremendous Western heritage with our South County neighbors,” adds Aguirre. “The Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo allows us to keep the cowboy culture alive while honoring the old cowboy tradition of ‘passing the hat’ in support of a family in need.”

This “passingof the hat” tradition is alive and well, as proceeds for this year’s Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo will, once again, benefit local charities. Last year, the Rodeo surpassed the $1 million mark in contributions.Proceeds from the Rodeo benefited Camino Health Center and The Shea Center for Therapeutic Riding, both based in San Juan Capistrano.

The Rodeo is an important part of the legacy of the Rancho Mission Viejo landholdings, which has been under the stewardship of the O’Neill/Avery/Moiso family since 1882. It will take place at the Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park at San Juan Capistrano, located at the intersection of Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway and La Pata, along the western border of Rancho Mission Viejo in South Orange County.

For more info: RMVRodeo.com or RanchoMissionViejo.com

Mr. B’s Pizza Kitchen
By Amelia Winslow

Mr. B’s Pizza Kitchen, located in the Marbella Plaza in San Juan Capistrano, is the perfect casual neighborhood eatery. Bring the kids without worry, catch the big game over an ice-cold beer or just nosh on down-home Italian food. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it at Mr. B’s.

As you would expect from any good family-friendly Italian restaurant, Mr B.’s offers a large menu filled with classic dishes that suit any taste. Salads, hot and cold sandwiches, pasta, pizza, as well as traditional entrees and desserts are all available on the extensive menu.

For dinner, my friends and I enjoyed a couple of pizzas – the Godfather, which was loaded with a hearty blend of meats, cheese and peppers over a spicy red sauce – and the Margherita, a lighter option topped with ripe chopped tomatoes and plenty of fresh basil. We also sampled some of their popular entrees: the Shrimp Capri, which boasted perfectly cooked shrimp tossed with veggies and linguine; the Chicken Parmigiana, a classic take on an old favorite and the Sausage & Peppers, whose fantastic flavor was in part due to the addition of homemade (really!) sausage.

To top off our meal, we indulged in a piece of Spumoni ice cream pie and a delicious chocolate chip cannoli. If you dine on a Friday or Saturday, definitely try their famous chocolate cake, which is only available on weekends.

In addition to a wide food selection, Mr. B’s offers a full bar menu, complete with your favorite cocktails, seriously cold draft beers and a variety of delicious wines. They also have plenty of flat-screen TVs as well as a large party room available for private events. So whether you’re looking for a new dining spot for the family or a venue to host your next gathering, Mr. B’s is the place.

Mr. B’s Pizza Kitchen
31111 Rancho Viejo Rd. • San Juan Capistrano • 949. 240.8100 • MrBsPizza.com

Sawdust Art Festival
By Shelley T. Hudson

Our sunny Southern California summer is well underway and that can only mean one thing—the artists at the Sawdust Art Festival’s Summer Show are ready to knock our socks off! This year’s festival promises to be as exciting and varied as ever, with over 200 exhibitors displaying their fine art and craft and creating their passions right before our eyes.

The 2011 Sawdust Art Festival marks the 45th anniversary of this celebrated event, which began in 1965 as a vehicle to promote and support local artists and educate the public. True to its origins, the festival hosts artists who all live and work in Laguna Beach. They show off their talents in a wide variety of mediums, including hand-blown glasswork, fused glass, painting, jewelry, wood and metal sculpture, ceramics, textiles, clothing, scrimshaw, photography, mixed media and more.

The festival draws in excess of 200,000 visitors each year and organizers are careful to provide an unstuffy, family-friendly atmosphere. In fact, patrons are encouraged to interact with the artists and participate in art workshops and live demonstrations. An expansive Children’s Art Booth gives future Van Goghs hands-on experience with paintbrushes and clay. Visitors of all ages can try their hand at the potter’s wheel in the Ceramic Center or take a wide variety of art classes at the Sawdust Studio.

What started as a little art display in a parking lot in the 60’s has become the region’s most popular art event. Encompassing three acres of eucalyptus grove, the festival is rebuilt from the ground up every summer. Each exhibitor constructs his or her “venue,” creating a unique village-like setting. Once the booths are assembled, sawdust is brought in to line the pathways and landscaping is added. Guests can amble along the paths and enjoy the exhibits at a leisurely pace, taking time to get to know the artists and their creative processes.

The variety of fine art and craft is the signature draw of the Sawdust Art Festival. It’s non-juried, so visitors will find accomplished and acclaimed artists exhibiting their work alongside newer artists. Since the booths are rebuilt and booth locations are changed every year, each show is a new experience for guests.

The Sawdust Art Festival’s nine-week schedule includes daily live music on three stages and roving musical acts. With food and beverages from four restaurants and the Sawdust Saloon, be prepared to spend at least a whole day taking in all the sights, sounds and flavors. A better idea might be to spring for a Season Pass, which is an exceptional bargain. At only $15 per person, the pass offers unlimited admission and access to all activities for the entire run of the Summer Show. For just five bucks more, you can purchase an Annual Pass, which grants access to the Sawdust Art Festival’s Winter Fantasy.

A primary function of the festival is to support Laguna Beach’s intrepid artists. A terrific opportunity to participate in the cause directly is to attend the Artists Benevolence Fund Art Auction on Sunday, August 7th, on the Sawdust Entertainment Deck. Exhibiting artists generously donate work for the auction to raise funds for their peers. The fund has donated over $100,000 to local artists in times of need.

Sawdust Art Festival • 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA • 949.494.3030sawdustartfestival.org

Sparks Fly in South OC!
By Shelley T. Hudson

Independence Day… when your most crucial decisions are charcoal or propane? Burgers or hot dogs? Apple or cherry pie? And, of course, which fireworks display to watch! One surefire bet is that we’ve got the DISH on all the best shows in your backyard.

Dana Point
Dana Point’s annual fireworks extravaganza is one of the most popular around. This impressive display can be enjoyed from any point in the city with a harbor view. The show starts promptly at 9 p.m. and the pyrotechnics are fired from a barge in the harbor. It’s best to walk to your viewing spot, but you can also catch a free shuttle from Dana Hills High School to the corner of Golden Lantern and Dana Point Harbor Drive. The shuttles runs from 10 a.m. until after the show, but not during the show. An added bonus to this spectacle is the musical accompaniment. Bring your portable radio set to KSBR FM 88.5 for a synchronized musical broadcast. Doheny State Beach is an ideal place to take in the light display, but you can make the night extra special by booking a Fireworks Display Cruise with Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching.

Laguna Niguel
Laguna Niguel kicks off its annual slate of festivities with the “33rd Annual Run in the Parks.” Events begin at 7 a.m. with a 10K run, 5K run, 5K walk and children’s races. For more information, call South Coast YMCA at 949.495.9622.

If running a race is not your idea of a leisurely holiday, then the Chamber of Commerce Pancake Breakfast might be right up your alley. Five bucks will get you pancakes, sausage, coffee and juice. The breakfast takes place from 7:30 to 11 a.m. at the YMCA (29831 Crown Valley Parkway). Visit www.lnchamber.com for details.

Evening celebrations begin with Beach Boys and Beatles tribute bands at 6 p.m. at the Crown Valley Park Amphitheater (29751 Crown Valley Parkway). After the live entertainment, bust out a flashlight and join your neighbors and friends in a community walk (3/4 mile each way) to Regional Park for the 9 p.m. fireworks display. Bring along a blanket for sky-gazing in the grass.

Laguna Beach
The City of Laguna Beach’s fireworks are back! The long-running tradition was shelved for several years due to budget cuts and enjoyed a last-minute reprieve in 2010, thanks to a fund-raising campaign by the Laguna Board of Realtors. The event was questionable again this year, but the City has decided to pick up the tab—much to the delight of many area families. The show will take place at Monument Point in Heisler Park. Bundle up and enjoy this popular holiday treat.

San Clemente
Municipal Pier is once again the spot for San Clemente’s Independence Day celebration. The city’s annual fireworks show is a must-see, but be prepared for a crowd. The pier area will close to automobile traffic from 7 p.m. until after the show and pedestrian traffic on the pier will be restricted from noon on July 3rd for staging and preparations. For safety reasons, swimmers, surfers and jet-skiers will be prohibited within 1000 feet of the pier during the fireworks display. Bring your blankets and beach chairs for this long-standing community tradition.

San Juan Capistrano
The city’s 50th birthday party continues with the biggest July 4th celebration yet. This annual event takes place at San Juan Capistrano Sports Park (25925 Camino del Avion) and kicks off at 3:00 p.m. with rides, craft booths, food, drinks and live music. Wristbands are available for purchase for the mechanical rides at the Community Center until July 1st or at the gate during the event. Pony rides, old-fashioned family games and souvenir photos are all offered for free this year. Beer, wine, food and treats will be available for purchase. Classic rockers, Family Style, will take the stage from 6 to 9 p.m., so bring your dancing shoes. While you’re at it, grab a blanket or beach chair for a cozy view of the spectacular fireworks show at 9 p.m. Sorry, no pets are invited to the party.

No matter where you are: The Local DISH magazine wishes you a safe and happy Fourth of July!

Renaissance Dana Point
By Bonnie Small

No matter what you’re looking for – brunch on the patio, a lively place to meet friends for a drink, or dinner and live music – you’ll find it at The Renaissance Dana Point. Housed in the oldest commercial building in Dana Point, The Renaissance is a definite must-go for locals and visitors looking to satisfy their appetite as well as their hunger for live entertainment featuring home town artists.

Though my companions vary, we always seem drawn to Chef Bill Milton’s delicious steamed artichokes, steeped in fresh herbs and served with drawn butter and mayonnaise and crudités, this item has yet to disappoint. Sometimes I choose the artichoke as my main dish, but most often it serves as a perfect segue to my other favorites.

Hands down, the baked brie en croustade is one of the Renaissance’s most popular menu items. Molten brie is served in a hollowed out round of fresh sourdough bread along with fresh veggies and sliced fruit for dipping. On a recent visit, my friends and I also enjoyed Beef Carpaccio with shaved parmesan cheese and fresh lemon juice – sliced paper thin and seasoned beautifully, this dish was quickly devoured.

Though listed as an appetizer, a fantastic meal can be made from the littleneck clams prepared in a yummy white wine sauce. Bivalve aficionados will be pleased with the flavors of this rich garlicky broth and perfectly steamed clams. Steak lovers have the choice of filet, New York or rib-eye prepared either marinated in The Renaissance’s traditional olive oil, garlic and rosemary combination; pan-seared and topped with blue cheese; or seasoned with cracked black pepper and finished with a sweet pepper sauce.

It’s hard to tell whether the entertainment is a complement to a great meal, or if the meal is a nice complement to the music, but either way you’ll find that The Renaissance offers a superior lineup of local musicians and groups every night of the week. The Renaissance leads the way as Dana Point continues its transformation into a South County dining and entertainment destination.

The Renaissance Dana Point
24701 Del Prado, Dana Point 949.661.6003
www.renaissance-danapoint.com

Saddleback Memorial Medical Center: The Future of Good Health
By Shelley T. Hudson

At Saddleback Memorial Hospital, your paper chart is history. Just last month, the hospital said goodbye to bulky, handwritten records and opened the door to innovation that minimizes errors and maximizes patient care. Its new electronic medical records program allows physicians, nurses and hospital staff to have immediate, secure access to each patient’s diagnosis, test results, imaging and history – all at the touch of a button.

The process that started at the Laguna Hills facility in 2006 has already streamlined access to patients’ records for doctors and other clinicians. A massive behind-the-scenes effort laid the groundwork for the transition from paper records to electronic ones. Hospital facilities were modified to accommodate additional computer equipment, air conditioning units and a sophisticated back-up system. Each patient’s paper record—”the chart,” as we more commonly know it—was digitized, including notes, x-rays, scans, test results, diagnoses and treatments. This overhaul puts Saddleback and all other MemorialCare hospitals at the forefront of medical technological advancements. Only 10% of hospitals in the country have made the change to paperless record keeping. In fact, MemorialCare was recently recognized in the Top 100 Integrated Healthcare Networks for 2011 for its timely and comprehensive transition.

With all MemorialCare facilities now up and running with the electronic medical records system, patients can travel freely between locations with the assurance that their medical information is accessible and in one place. Saddleback Memorial’s Hospital Administrator, Tony Struthers, says that implementing the system provides “a better framework for decision making,” and that “information in the hands of a decision maker in a timely manner will lead to better outcomes.”

Struthers explains that until the new system was put into place, a doctor’s typical day usually started with tracking down each patient’s chart before going on daily rounds. Within each paper record were handwritten notes from any number of clinicians and each section of the chart was updated separately. The doctor would have to scour through notes before visiting with a patient and then document the visit before moving on to the next patient. With the information easily accessible and contained, a doctor’s time can be more focused on care and treatment. Now that the data is available electronically, the physician can securely review a patient’s chart from anywhere—even an iPad or smartphone—and have the ability to make updates on the spot.

Since physicians can quickly consult with specialists through the electronic system, waiting hours, days or weeks for multiple doctors to confer is a thing of the past. Clinicians in separate locations can collaborate and develop patient treatment plans without delay. The electronic record virtually eliminates redundancy in testing, resulting in less hassle and expense for both patients and insurance providers. A built-in warning system also alerts clinicians to possible drug interactions, allergies, pre-existing conditions and other potential complications, providing an additional safety net for providers and patients.

The next phase of the transformation is integrating area physicians, Struthers explains. As it stands, when a patient comes to Saddleback Memorial’s Emergency Department, the treating physician can email the ER records to the patient’s family doctor for follow up. With wider integrations of private medical practices into the system, that step will also be eliminated. Saddleback Memorial’s satellite branches are a step ahead of this curve. The San Clemente Family Medicine office of Dr. Candace Basich and Dr. Amber Pashon and the practice of Dr. Lowell Kleinman, both in Talega, are already online with the MemorialCare electronic medical records system. Now that’s universal healthcare.

In addition to the “greening” of patient records, which significantly reduces paper consumption, Saddleback is working diligently to make additional environmentally responsible changes across the board. The hospital has eliminated landfill-dominating styrofoam products from the Dietary Department, which includes the hospital’s cafeteria and patient meal services. A new pilot project coordinated with local waste management services directs all food waste to a compost facility instead of a landfill. This effort not only considerably lowers the hospital’s cost of trash removal, it just makes good sense.

www.memorialcare.org

Meet Dr. Anton

As a wife, model and down-to-earth mom of two toddlers, Peggy has endeared herself to Housewives watchers. She’s definitely kept it real – having shared some intimate life details, including a struggle with post-partum depression and her journey through a recent reconstructive breast augmentation.

We spoke with Dr. Mark Anton, the Newport Beach plastic surgeon who performed Peggy’s procedure and who has been featured alongside her this season as she’s transitioned through her much-publicized surgery. Dr. Anton shared his thoughts on being an Orange County plastic surgeon and on his experience with filming the reality TV series.

TLD: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A PLASTIC SURGEON?
Dr. Anton: I’ve been a board-certified plastic surgeon for more than 20 years with fellowship training in both Facial Surgery and Breast Surgery. I opened my private practice, Anton Aesthetics, in Newport Beach in 1990.

TLD: WHAT IS YOUR AESTHETIC AND PHILOSOPHY AS A PLASTIC SURGEON?
Dr. Anton: I believe that natural and balanced results are always achievable with plastic surgery when one understands anatomy and sculpting. Having excelled at anatomy in medical school, I bring a strong foundation and understanding to the plastic surgeon’s medium that has allowed me to generate successful results and maintain one of the lowest complication rates among my peers. Optimal outcomes are attained through a combination of experience and a surgeon’s ability to artistically interpret and shape a patient’s existing morphology.

TLD: WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR MOST REWARDING EXPERIENCES AS A SURGEON?
Dr. Anton: I’ve had so many that it’s difficult to select just a few. In my private practice, I’m often reminded of how a cosmetic procedure can be an overwhelmingly positive and life-altering experience for patients. It’s gratifying to know that you were able to contribute to those outcomes.

Outside of my private practice, I traveled to Haiti in 2010 in conjunction with Operation Smile to provide surgical assistance to earthquake survivors. It was a humbling experience to say the least. Despite their dire circumstances, the collective spirit of the Haitian people was amazing to witness. Their strength, resiliency and graciousness in the midst of insurmountable obstacles are qualities we can all learn from.

TLD: HOW DID YOU BECOME PEGGY TANOUS’ SURGEON?
Dr. Anton: Peggy was referred to Anton Aesthetics by a friend and former patient. I consulted with her regarding her breast augmentation revision after she had met with several other plastic surgeons. We discussed her concerns and she subsequently selected me to help her. In my experience, patients not only need to feel confident in their surgeon’s technical and sculpting abilities, but need to feel that they can communicate well and feel comfortable with the entire staff, from the nurses to the office personnel.

TLD: WERE YOU AT ALL HESITANT TO PARTICIPATE IN A REALITY TV SERIES?
Dr. Anton: Sure. I was apprehensive and gave the opportunity considerable thought, but knowing that I could assist Peggy through a difficult situation influenced my decision to move forward. My staff and I were primarily concerned that our reputation for professionalism and quality patient care remain paramount. Thanks to Bravo, appearing on the show was ultimately a positive and memorable experience.

TLD: WHAT WAS IT LIKE TO FILM A REALITY TV SERIES?
Dr. Anton: It was interesting to be part of the behind the scenes action and to witness how “real” the series actually is. There’s also an unnerving element of watching yourself on screen and the suspense of which footage will make it through the editing process and onto the show.

TLD: WHAT SURPRISED YOU THE MOST ABOUT FILMING THE SHOW?
Dr. Anton: How drama-free the experience turned out to be. Peggy, her husband Micah and the entire Bravo staff were a pleasure to work with and made filming remarkably easy.

Anton Aesthetics offers the full spectrum of plastic surgery and state-of-the-art skin care. To learn more about Dr. Anton and to view his portfolio of work, please visit AntonAesthetics.com.

ANTON AESTHETICS
Mark A. Anton, M.D., F.A.C.S • Nancy Pellegrino, N.P.
949.722.1967
361 Hospital Road, Suite 427
Newport Beach, CA
AntonAesthetics.com

Amber’s Cantina
By Shelley T. Hudson

Amber’s Cantina is one of those hidden gems we all love to stumble upon and call our own. Located at Clubhouse and Niguel Road in Laguna Niguel (in the Clubhouse Plaza near Fitness Elite for Women), this cozy, bustling spot is the perfect place to enjoy a hearty lunch or leisurely dinner and still have enough in your wallet for a tank of gas!

Amber Penrod established her own cantina in June, 1998 after honing her skills for many years in the restaurant business. She and her right-hand man and head cook, Fernando, set up shop and perfected the authentic Mexican menu. Today, her long-term staff and dedicated following of hungry locals keep her jumping week after week.

For lunch, my friend ordered the Pollo Relleño from the “Cantina Specialties” menu. This gourmet-style creation is composed of a Monterey Jack and cotija cheese-stuffed breast of chicken and is topped with creamy garlic primavera blanco sauce, accompanied by smoky black beans and rice. My friend was “eating for two,” so I didn’t dare ask for a taste for myself. She gave the dish rave reviews and from her empty plate, I’d just have to trust her.

I selected a more traditional Mexican dish—the smothered burrito. It was delicious and savory, stuffed with grilled vegetables and cheese and topped with a zesty ranchero sauce. The experience was a departure from the usual—the veggies were crunchy and the ranchero sauce had just the right kick. On my next visit, I’m eager to try one of the delectable-looking desserts. Amber’s offers Mexican favorites like churros, flan and buñuelos, but I can’t wait to sink my teeth into the Banana Caramel Cheesecake Burrito.

Amber’s Cantina offers lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday
from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and a festive daily happy hour from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. Stop in and get your salsa on …ole!

Amber’s Cantina
949.488.2858
31341 Niguel Road, Suite D
Laguna Niguel, CA
AmbersCantina.com

Allen Family Automotive Group
By Shelley T. Hudson

During the month of May, the Allen Family Automotive Group is celebrating its 64th anniversary. When Stanley Allen opened his dealership in Laguna Beach in 1947, he couldn’t have imagined the population explosion the sleepy little beach town and the surrounding areas would experience in the coming decades.

Stanley Allen spent 25 years in Laguna Beach raising his family in South Orange County and getting to know the people in the community. When his son, Dennis, joined the business and initiated a move to Laguna Niguel, the reaction was mixed. Laguna Niguel was considered a no man’s land in the early ’70’s, boasting not much beyond orange groves and a freeway exit. Dennis’ vision proved to be a good one, and shortly thereafter, Allen added GMC to its Oldsmobile and Cadillac product lines.

This year, Allen Automotive celebrates nearly 40 years in Laguna Niguel and operates with the same principles on which Stanley Allen built his reputation. His grandsons have all taken a turn at the helm; Scott and Mitch ran the dealership for many years before turning over General Manager duties to younger brother Cliff. Nephew Cameron has joined ranks in the Internet Department, leading the fourth generation of Allens into the next decade.

Although Cliff Allen is busy with a young family, including sons Mason and Cooper and one-month-old baby Chloe, he can rest easy—professionally, at least! The management team at Allen has hundreds of years of combined experience with the company—many started careers with Dennis Allen in the 1970’s. This level of dedication and loyalty is almost unheard of in the ever-changing auto industry.

“The backbone of our dealership is community involvement,” says Cliff Allen. He lists Dana Hills High, Mission Viejo High, JSerra, San Clemente High and Vista del Mar Elementary, as just some of the schools the dealership supports, along with many area sports teams. These efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. Allen was recently named Laguna Niguel’s “2010 Outstanding Business of the Year” and adds this honor to many other accolades, including OC Business Journal’s “Family-Owned Business of the Year.”

Allen has demonstrated a commitment to its brands as well, selling both Cadillac and GMC for decades. Cadillac, a luxury brand since inception, has developed into a performance name, with its CTS line and the V-Series. Allen has been one of the top Cadillac retailers for many years and has enjoyed success with the popularity of the Escalade and the newer fuel-efficient models like the SRX. GMC’s offering of mid-size and compact SUVs has also answered a call in the marketplace, being called “standards of industry” for their competitive fuel-efficiency.

The Allen Group expanded its family of brands in 2006 with the addition of Hyundai. Known previously in the market as a budget brand, Hyundai’s growth and improved design in recent years impressed the Allen family. The global development of Hyundai and its emphasis on quality and performance have made it attractive to consumers. When the Hyundai Genesis was named the 2009 North American Car of the Year, auto enthusiasts were intrigued. As awareness and excitement grew among industry insiders, so did the interest of the consumer. Now Allen is the fastest growing Hyundai dealership in the West. The roll-out of the highly anticipated 2011 Sonata has kept the push going. This mid-level sedan is sweeping up awards and winning over drivers at all levels.

The motto at Allen Family Automotive is “our family serving your family for over 60 years.” The commitment to the people in their local community backs up this promise. GM has awarded Allen the “Positive Impact Award for Service” for four consecutive years—an accomplishment no other dealer in the Western Region has achieved.

“The Allen Advantage” is the dealership’s promise to its customers and community. Come in and experience “The Allen Advantage” and help Allen Automotive celebrate its 64th year in business.

The Allen Advantage:
Consistent Excellence • Customer Care • Competitive Pricing • Customer Retention • Community Service • Commitment to Values

Allen Family Automotive Group
28332 Camino Capistrano • Laguna Niguel, CA • 949.485.3700 • AllenAutos.com