Happenings

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

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

Halloween Rocks!
By Shelley T. Hudson

Stop the music! Halloween is just a few short weeks away and so much is happening this year it’s scary. Get in costume, play the part and treat yourself to some hauntingly good fun throughout South OC.

Dana Point
This is the place to be on All Hallow’s Eve. The city is oozing with opportunities for spooky family fun. First up is Saturday, October 22nd, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. with the Haunted Campground at Doheny State Beach. The campground will spotlight educational booths and a fun zone for kids. The event is free, but please bring a non-perishable food item donation.

The Ocean Institute’s Tidepool of Terrors takes place on Sunday, October 30th. This annual event is free to kids in costume and features ghost stories, critter crafts and spooky science labs. Kids can trick-or-treat throughout the facility and take part in the costume contest. Prizes will be awarded for Scariest, Ocean-themed and Most Eco-Friendly costumes.

The City of Dana Point is going all out for its First Annual Halloween Spooktacular and Moonlight Movie. This event is absolutely free and is packed with family-oriented activities. The fun starts at 3 p.m. on Saturday, October 28th, at Lantern Bay Park with cupcake decorating, pumpkin carving and a costume parade. The event concludes with a screening of Disney’s Monsters, Inc. at 6:15 p.m. Free popcorn will be distributed during the movie and other refreshments will be available for purchase.

Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach is getting in on the frightful action this year with a children’s Halloween Scavenger Hunt on Saturday, October 29th, from 9 to 11 a.m. Kids aged 5 and older can explore the wilderness searching for treats and learning about nature. Beware…the hunt includes a one-mile hike that can be a little steep. The event fee is $2.00 per person and parking is $3.00 per vehicle at Laguna Wilderness Park. 

Laguna Niguel
A Halloween tradition not to be missed is the 11th Annual Haunted Trails event at Crown Valley Community Park with this year’s theme: “It’s a mad, mad world!” Small groups will tour through the very scary trails and experience the fright of their lives. The festivities are scheduled for October 27th through the 29th and it all begins at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $10 per person and organizers ask that you bring only children aged 8 and older.

For a twist on Halloween tradition, check out the Pet Project Foundation and the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter’s Howl-o-Ween at the Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel on Thursday, October 27th from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. This fundraiser and doggie costume contest supports local animal rescue efforts and is sure to be full of laughs and arfs. Dogs will enjoy “Yappy Hour,” featuring Beastly Bacon and Creepy Chicken flavored waters and owners can sip on wines from Mutt Lynch Winery—we’re talking Unleashed Chardonnay, Merlot Over and Play Dead and Chateau d’Og Cabernet Sauvignon. The cost is a $10 donation for each costumed canine.

San Juan Capistrano
ZOOMARS’ Pumpkinpalooza is back this year and better than ever. No scary stuff here—kids can paint pumpkins, walk through a haze maze and make Halloween crafts every day in October from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The ‘Palooza will take over the train station on Los Rios Street in SJC. While you’re at it, you can treat the family to a Zoomars’ visit as well-where the kids can pet and feed over 100 different animals. Admission is $7.00 for adults and $6.00 for children.

The San Juan Capistrano Historical Society will sponsor a “Ghost Stories” walking tour of Los Rios Street, the oldest residential neighborhood in California. The tours start at the O’Neill Museum on Los Rios Street at 6:30, 7:00 and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 29th. Creepy tales of “the lady in white,” “the big black dog” and more will be shared and scared. Reservations are required and the cost is $4.00 for adults and $3.00 for children. Bundle up and prepare for a chill!

San Clemente Skate & Surf Contest
By Katherine Sweet

It’s time once again for the San Clemente Open Skate & Surf Contest. Whether you’re planning to compete or watch from the sideline or sand, don’t miss the action happening on September 17th and 18th. Jam-packed with activities, this annual event offers kids an opportunity to bring their best moves to the land and sand.

The 11th annual Skate Contest takes place at the Ralphs Skate Court on the 17th. The fourth annual Surf Contest follows at the San Clemente Pier on the 18th. Sponsored by Rusty and Circa and hosted by the Beaches, Parks and Recreation Foundation, the SC Open Skate & Surf Contest gives local kids of all ages and levels a chance to showcase their board talent. Skateboarders and surfers will demonstrate their best skate run or wave (or both) in a contest to find the best “board sport” athlete in San Clemente.

“We think it is special when younger kids can compete in a healthy competition in the sports they’re learning to love,” says Don Kindred. After contestants strut their stuff, a panel of judges will rate each entrant. While all kids receive a goodie bag full of surf and skate items, the first, second and third place winners in each age category will also receive prizes. This year is the second year a “best trick” contest has been offered, which boasts cash prizes.

Beyond all the fun and healthy competition, the SC Open is also a fundraiser that makes a difference in our local community. All proceeds benefit the San Clemente Beaches, Parks and Recreation Foundation to sponsor programs such as the universally accessible playground — Courtney’s SandCastle, the Cyber Café computer lab and recreation scholarships for children in need. Last year’s event raised approximately $10,000, with roughly 100 kids participating in each event.

The event got its start in 2001, when parks commissioner Bill Thomas decided that a community contest at the then-recently opened skate park would allow San Clemente skaters an opportunity to showcase their talent, the park and the sport. After collaborating with San Clemente Recreation, Thomas’ vision became a reality. A few years later, the annual surf contest was added.

For skaters hoping to make it big – such as placing in the California Amateur Skateboard League – the SC Open is a first step and for many kids, it will represents their first competition.

Surf Heritage Day
Mayor Lori Donchak has proclaimed September 17th “Surf Heritage Day” to coincide with the first-ever San Clemente Celebration of Surf. The event will take place from 5 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, September 17th and leads in to the annual Hurley Pro of Surf which begins on Sunday, September 18th. Approximately 4,000 surf enthusiasts will enjoy a party on the lawn with live bands, an art show and exhibits at Steed Park in Rancho San Clemente.

Attendees will have a good time enjoying dinner, dancing and drinks while supporting great charitable causes. Sponsored by Hurley and the San Clemente Rotary Club, Surf Heritage Day is not just about having fun, but is also a celebration of San Clemente’s surf industry and a fundraiser benefitting more than 30 local and international programs.

The Surfing Heritage Museum will be featured at the celebration and will have shuttle service for those wishing to tour the museum’s unrivaled collection of historic surfboards, photos and other memorabilia.

To learn more, visit www.sanclementerotary.org.

2011 San Clemente Ocean Festival
The Greatest Show on Surf

San Clemente Ocean Festival is coming to a beach near you on July 16th and 17th. Each year, tens of thousands of beachgoers attend this annual event featuring water-based activities ranging from standup paddleboard surfing championships and a fishing derby to ocean swims and body surfing championships.

For those preferring to stay grounded, a variety of activities for all ages also awaits at the festival. Landlubbers can enjoy the 18th annual woody car exhibit, the ocean art show, The Great Rubber Duck Race and a beach party & free concert featuring A Bunch of Guys. Kids can participate in the revelry with carnival games, face painting, crafts, the Discovery Science Center, kids’ dolphin dash beach run, a children’s fishing clinic and much more.

All in all, whatever your age, interest or skill level, there is sure to be something for you at the festival. “Our goal is to maintain a quality event, attracting both novice and world-class athletes at a venue for them to enjoy with their friends and families, creating lasting memories and passing on traditions,” says Peggy Vance, Executive Director.

The event got its start back in 1975 with a group of lifeguards who envisioned a series of beach games for the general public. Now celebrating its 35th anniversary, the Ocean Festival is designed to combine ocean awareness with safe, healthy competition and recreational activities. It has become a respected tradition for the local community.

A portion of the proceeds from the San Clemente Ocean Festival benefit local charities that strive to make a difference in our community. The celebration raises funds for charities such as the Jr. Lifeguard program, Adopt-a-Class at the Ocean Institute, The Mentor Program at the Boys & Girls Club and for high school scholarships. “It’s fun and it’s all for a good cause,” shares Todd Bryant, the event’s President. “It’s great to bring the community together. It’s the best event we have in San Clemente. We’re just trying to put on a really great show that everyone can enjoy.”

Take advantage of hassle-free parking. A complimentary, round trip shuttle service will be running from San Clemente High School to the Ocean Festival and back on Saturday, July 16th from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and on Sunday, July 17th from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Date: July 16th-17th

Admission: FREE

Register: scof2011.eventbrite.com

Schedule/Info: oceanfestival.org or call 949.440.6141

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

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!