Happenings

Education Spotlight 2018

Education Spotlight
January 2018

read more

Fitness 2018

Fitness 2018

Fitness 2018

Lean, Mean, Health Machine

Fit Pilates

fit-pilates

FIT Pilates invites you to check out one of Orange County’s hottest workouts! Using the Lagree Fitness Method, FIT Pilates is the only licensed studio in San Clemente and Mission Viejo to offer the Megaformer. Providing constant resistance, the Megaformer effectively combines strength, endurance, cardio, balance, core, and flexibility, not only in one session, but in each and every move. In a 50-minute workout, you will shake, you will sweat, and you will quiver, but most importantly, you will get strong, toned, and FIT! Try one of these new client specials: first class $10 or 10 classes for $69 until January 31st. Experience for yourself why celebrities and athletes around the world are addicted and just can’t get enough of Lagree Fitness. Email info@FitPilatesStudioSanClemente.com or visit FitPilatesStudio.com for more info.

1001 Avenida Pico H • San Clemente, CA 92673 • 714.421.2127 • FitPilatesStudio.com

CB CycleBarn®

CB CycleBarn

CB CycleBarn® offers inspirational instructors, great music, data tracking, a variety of indoor cycling classes, and a staff dedicated to customer care. Classes at TheBarn are fun, safe, and effective non-impact cardio for all ages and fitness levels, including teens and seniors. Signing up is easy and saves time because there’s no waiting to get a bike. TheBarn’s Book Your Bike reservation system allows you to choose your bike in advance and makes every rider feel like a VIP. Pay per class or monthly. The Barn has expanded this past year with a new studio that now offers PiYO (Pilates and Yoga combined), Barre, Bootcamp and TRX classes. As a New Year’s incentive, The Barn is offering five free classes for new customers. Register and check out the class schedule online at CBCycleBarn.com or call 949.481.5438.

372 Camino De Estrella • San Clemente • 949.481.5438 • CBCycleBarn.com

Anytime Fitness

anytime-fitness

Anytime Fitness in San Juan Capistrano has new owners! Local residents Sandy Ford and Margie Sinner took over the gym on December 1, 2017 and are excited to help members have a fit and healthy 2018. Take advantage of the “Join for a $1” campaign that runs from January 1 to 12, 2018. Anytime Fitness is a boutique gym, offering its members a clean and inviting alternative to “big box” gyms. It has 5000 sq. ft. of excellent training options including TRX, weights, cardio and workout machines, personal training and group classes. As a member, you have your own key and can access the gym 24 hours a day.  Members can also utilize over 3,000 Anytime Fitness Gyms throughout the world. Silver Sneakers are welcome.

31107 Rancho Viejo Rd Suite 5 • San Juan Capistrano • 949.481•2220 • AnytimeFitness.com

Studio A Pilates

studio-a-pilates

Studio A is a space created for and dedicated to mindful movement and wholistic wellness presenting specialized and certified instruction in the arts of Pilates and Yoga. It offers classes in The MELT Method, a self-treatment system to eliminate chronic pain, as well as Barre and Circuit Fitness Training. Clients and students are guided according to their unique and individual strengths and challenges through functional, integrated methods of movement, in order to attain a clear, unified relationship of mind, body and spirit. Studio A gives the option of choosing group class settings, semi-private duet sessions or one-on-one private instruction. Studio A provides an inviting atmosphere with clean lines, calming tones and textures as well as organized, professional surroundings.

24849 Del Prado Ave • Dana Point • 949.218.0233 • StudioPilates.Yoga

Zen Dojos

zen-dojos

Serving our community for over 26 years, this studio is one of the most established in the area. Zen Dojos offers something for everyone in the family, including classes and fitness programs for all levels of interest and ages starting at 3-years-old. Featuring Kempo Karate, Women’s Only training, Krav Maga Combat Fitness, and it’s “Heroes in Training” Children’s Get-Fit Program.  Zen Dojos was voted “Best Martial Arts Studio” in San Juan Capistrano in 2012 and Lead Instructor Marco O’Campo was named “Best Coach in San Juan Capistrano” by The Capistrano Dispatch. Instructor Paul Benavidez has been teaching martial arts locally since 1991. January is an ideal time to get started. The studio’s 2 for 1 special offer on all programs (for new students with paid enrollment) ends on January 31st. Call 949.240.6574 for more information.

31888 Del Obispo #C6 • San Juan Capistrano • 949.240.6574 • ZenDojos.com

Jefferson Starship Live at The Coach House

Jefferson Starship

Jefferson Starship

Live at The Coach House January 26

By Anthony Small

Jefferson Starship lands at the Coach House Concert Hall in San Juan Capistrano on Friday, January 26 to play such iconic hits as “We Built This City,” “Jane,” “White Rabbit” and “Somebody to Love.” Jefferson Starship evolved from Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Jefferson Airplane, and stays true to the spirit of founding member Paul Kantner’s drive to push sonic limits. “It’s always about these special moments where we represent the records with this true freedom to evolve. That’s how we dedicate every show to Paul,” said drummer Donnie Baldwin.

Paul Kantner passed away in early 2016, but his presence is still deeply felt. Guitarist Jude Gold proudly observed, “Paul is the Miles Davis of Psychedelic Rock because he and Miles both pushed established boundaries with extended improvisations and solos, which created such signature songs, sounds and hooks. We have this songbook that a lot of people grew up with and now younger people have been turned on to it. There’s a plethora of emotions because of the history, but it’s also about who we are today and how we’ve grown from who we once were.”

Original lead singer Grace Slick, who retired in the 90’s, encourages and supports Jefferson Starship’s continued flight, even inviting current vocalist Cathy Richardson to sing “Somebody to Love” with Jefferson Airplane when they received their Lifetime Achievement Award from the GRAMMYs in 2016. Richardson is a powerhouse vocalist and guitarist who also had the lead role as Janis Joplin in the Off-Broadway play Love, Janis. Jefferson Starship’s co-founder David Freiberg was also a member of Jefferson Airplane and co-wrote the smash hit “Jane.” This humble guru-like multi-instrumentalist still sings the tune with his signature soaring vocal prowess. When pressed for his philosophy, Freiberg shared, “We have always had a good time, never playing a song exactly the same way twice. Don’t be afraid to go for every unexpected weird solo!”

Fans attending the show can expect a moving experience. Keyboardist Chris Smith shared, “When you’re onstage at the Coach House, you’re almost surrounded by the audience. We can see and feel the crowd, really playing to the mood, exploring and improvising.”

The Coach House
33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano
(949) 496-8930    TheCoachHouse.com

The DISH On Holiday Hangs

The Dish On Holiday Hangs

The DISH On Holiday Hangs

Want to chill with Santa this holiday season? We’ve got the DISH on where to find him in South Orange County. Check out these events for some face time with Mr. Claus and his South Pole posse.

The Dish On Holiday Hangs

BUILDING HOLIDAY MEMORIES
Dana Point’s annual Winter Festival and Tree Lighting returns to La Plaza Park on Saturday, December 2 from noon to 5:30 p.m. This free day of fun features a new Lego Santa’s Village workshop, a craft fair, face painting, a petting zoo, pony rides and cookie decorating. Also new this year is a Mini Express Train that will chug through the event and a Marionettes show. The Tree Lighting ceremony will take place at 5:15 p.m. Please remember to bring an unwrapped, new toy for the OC Spark of Love Toy Drive. The City and Capo Care are also holding a Tree Lighting on Monday, December 5 at Pines Park from 4 to 6 p.m. It’s a family-friendly event with crafts, carolers, cookies, hot chocolate and more!

CAPTAIN SUPER HERO
Join boaters from all around Orange County as they light up the holiday season at the Dana Point Boat Parade on Friday and Saturday, December 8, 9, 15 and 16 at 7:30 p.m. This year’s “Super Hero Holiday” theme will have captains and their crews powering up some incredible decorations. Holiday in the Harbor is expanding this season and will take place prior to all four Boat Parade nights from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. with merchants in Mariner’s Village, Mariner’s Alley and Dana Wharf participating. The celebration features family fun of all kinds, including performances by various characters, holiday crafts, people painting, carolers and visits with Saint Nick. Santa is anxious to hear holiday wishes and is available for photos (bring your camera). Make reservations early at your favorite waterside eatery for a warm and comfy parade viewing spot. Go to DanaPointHarbor.com to learn more.

SEA TO BELIEVE
Come aboard the “Dana Pride” for a free twenty-minute Harbor Boat Ride with Santa and his helpers. On December 2 and 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saint Nick will be on board spreading holiday cheer and taking note of your little one’s holiday wish list. For a recommended $5 donation, the El Camino Real Junior Woman’s Club will happily capture the moment with a keepsake photo. Santa and crew will launch from the Dana Wharf Sportfishing docks. For more information, visit DanaWharf.com.

 

TOP DOG
On Saturday, December 2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., The Pet Project Foundation is excited to host the 6th Annual Santa Paws event. Start a family tradition and bring your four-legged friend to the El Torito Courtyard in Dana Point Harbor and have a picture taken with Santa for a nominal fee of $15. All proceeds benefit the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter.

BARK YOUR CALENDAR
Join other canines and their companions to sniff and schmooze at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel’s Yappy Howl-iday Celebration on Sunday, December 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The “Big Dog” will be on hand for photos with Fido. In keeping with the resort’s season of giving, guests are asked to bring unopened canned or dry dog food, treats or dog toys to be donated to local animals in need.

RIDE THE WAVE
The Ritz-Carlton is partnering with Surfers Healing to help children with autism through its annual Holiday Surfboard Auction. This year’s auction showcases more than two-dozen boards donated by renowned artists, actors, musicians and surf industry greats. Visit BiddingForGood.com/SurfersHealing through December 31 to place your bid for a great cause.

The Dish On Holiday Hangs

SANTA DELIVERS
On December 2, San Clemente is the place to be for an action-packed holiday spectacular. The festivities begin with Casa Romantica’s Christmas at the Casa from 5 to 7:30 p.m. featuring letter writing and photos with Mr. Claus, crafts, hot cocoa and cookies, Dickens Carolers and other entertainment. The action continues with Santa’s Village by the Sea at the Community Center from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. for the annual snow hill, holiday games, cookie decorating, visits with Santa and the tree lighting at 8 p.m. From 6 to 10 p.m., Avenida Del Mar hosts Puttin’ on the Glitz, where mom and dad can get a jump on their holiday shopping and the kiddos can take train rides and watch a holiday movie. For more information, visit San-Clemente.org or call 949.429.8797.

ALL IN A DAY’S WORK
You better watch out, you better not pout…Playschool is decking the halls for a morning of holiday cheer and excitement at the Lil’ Elves Workshop. On Friday, December 8, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Santa’s elves are in need of extra special help from your tiny tots to put crafts and games together. Children will sing holiday songs, enjoy special guest appearances from Santa’s helpers, make gifts for family and friends, decorate holiday cookies, and more. The registration fee is $20 per child (ages 3-5) at San-Clemente.org.

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE
San Clemente residents and business owners, it’s time to untangle those lights and get ready for your chance to win prizes in the City’s Winter Wonderland Light Decorating Contest. Go to SCChamber.com for a registration form and return it by December 11 to enter. Judging takes place on December 12 from 5 to 8 p.m.

The Dish On Holiday Hangs

MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT
Come to Historic Town Center Park on December 2 at 4:15 p.m. to kick off the festivities with music and other live entertainment before the City’s Tree Lighting Celebration at 5:45 p.m. From there, take the family and head over to Los Rios Park, Zoomars, and the downtown area for free photos with Saint Nick, a puppet show, a Christmas train ride, crafts and extended shopping hours. Zoomars is opening the gates to its petting zoo free of charge and will be hosting a live Nativity presentation. Call 949.493.5911 for more information or visit SanJuanChamber.com.

MERRY-ACHIS & MORE
Mission San Juan Capistrano will host Christmas at the Mission on Saturday, December 2 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Bring the family for a fun evening featuring real snow sledding and a play area (don’t forget mittens!). Kids will have a jolly time visiting with Mr. Claus and decorating cookies. Carolers, choirs and chamber music will entertain guests as they enjoy tamales, chili, sweets, cider and cocoa. General admission is $6, $4 for children ages 4 to 11 and free for members. Snow Fun will be extended this year for sledding on Sunday, December 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit MissionSJC.com for more event information.

laguna-niguel

MERRY & BRIGHT
Laguna Niguel’s City Hall will brighten up the sky at its annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration on Saturday, December 2 from 5 to 7 p.m. Join in the countdown to powering up the tree while you keep warm and happy with hot chocolate and cookies. Bring your camera and snap a quick pic with Saint Nick.

LIGHT UP THE TOWN
Laguna Niguel residents can get into the spirit by entering the Holiday Lights Decorating Contest before December 4, 2017. Winners in each category receive a Visa gift card and a yard sign with bragging rights! The entry form, rules and information are located in the City’s Winter Recreation Brochure or you may go to CityofLagunaNiguel.org to learn more.

WALK THIS WAY
“Jingle All the Way” is the theme for the City of Laguna Niguel’s annual Holiday Parade taking place on Saturday, December 9 at 10 a.m. This year’s Grand Marshall is Nickelodeon star Kira Kosarin, along with Teen Grand Marshall Trinitee Stokes, from Disney Channel’s KC Undercover. The parade includes beautiful equestrian units, patriotic and inspirational military tributes, world-class athletes, spirit-filled youth groups, classic auto clubs, talented marching bands, and some of the biggest attractions in the nation! To learn more, visit LagunaNiguelParade.com.

A LATKE FUN
A blizzard of holiday fun awaits the whole family as Chabad Laguna Niguel and the City host its Chanukah Wonderland and Menorah Lighting on Sunday, December 17 at 5:30 p.m. The merriment happens at City Hall, with live entertainment, arts and crafts, and traditional Chanukah treats. Go to ChabadLagunaNiguel.com for more information.

Driftwood at Doheny State Beach

Driftwood at Doheny State Beach

Driftwood at Doheny State Beach

Driftwood at Doheny State Beach

COUNTRY MUSIC RETURNS TO DOHENY

Driftwood at Doheny State BeachDriftwood at Doheny State Beach returns Veterans Day weekend with a stellar lineup of artists. Last year’s successful event prompted organizers to expand the music, food and art festival into a two-day affair. Starting Saturday, November 11, a weekend of live entertainment, craft beer, artisan wine and top-notch BBQ will kick-off in scenic Dana Point. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy the sights, sounds and sun at this picturesque venue on the shore of the Pacific Ocean.

Produced by premier music festival production company Synergy Global Entertainment (SGE) and Brew Ha Ha Productions, Driftwood at Doheny State Beach features tastings from more than 100 craft beers and wines, some of the best BBQ in the region, and two full days of Country music with headline performances from Chase Rice on Saturday and Kip Moore Sunday evening.

The event kicks off at 12 p.m. Saturday for early entry guests. General admission begins at 1 p.m., with musical performances until 9 p.m. Festival attendees, 21 and over, will enjoy complimentary adult beverage tastings from 1 to 4 p.m. Tastings are included with the $49 price of admission. VIP tickets, weekend passes and artist Meet & Greets are also available on a limited basis.

A portion of the festival’s proceeds will be donated to the San Onofre Parks Foundation. This nonprofit organization partners with California State Parks to develop, preserve and enhance the recreation and experience of California’s unique and beautiful coastal parks. The Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association (DSBIA), a non-profit dedicated to the protection of the park’s beaches, facilities, marine refuge and its historical, cultural and social stories will also benefit from the the event.

For more information and tickets visit www.DriftwoodFest.com.

Top Docs 2017

Top Docs of South OC
October 2017

read more

Tall Ships Festival

Tall Ships Festival

Tall Ships Festival

Dana Point Harbor September 8-10

Enjoy a weekend of festivities including mock cannon battles, tall ships tours, mermaid breakfasts, pirate adventures, historical reenactments, live music and more!

The County of Orange and OC Parks in partnership with Ocean Institute, invite the community to celebrate California’s rich maritime history during the Ocean Institute’s Tall Ships Festival in Dana Point Harbor. Gather friends and family for three days of events Friday, September 8 – Sunday, September 10 and experience the ultimate seaside adventure!

“The Tall Ships Festival is a truly unique combination of events that welcomes ocean lovers of all ages to watch history come alive,” commented Ocean Institute CEO, Dan Pingaro. “Dating back to the days of Henry Dana and beyond, visitors and locals can experience the history of Dana Point Harbor. From mock cannon battles to educational activities to live music and food, there’s something for everyone at the Tall Ships festival.”

The Tall Ships Festival at Dana Point Harbor includes three days of events and entertainment for festival-goers of every age, prices vary per event. Festivities and the Tall Ships parade kicks off on Friday, September 8 and Tall Ships tours, pirate adventures, mermaid encounters and several other activities await guests on Saturday, September 9 and Sunday, September 10.

“The Tall Ships Festival is a longstanding important tradition for our community, celebrating the origins of this vibrant port city,” said Orange County Supervisor Lisa Bartlett, “I’m excited that the County of Orange can support this wonderful event.”

The Parade of Sails on Friday, September 8 from 4:00 – 7:30 p.m. kicks off the festival and invites guests to join the armada as they adventure aboard a historic tall ship to work with the crew hailing up sail or to sit back to enjoy the ride.

The fun continues with Sails ‘n Ales on Friday from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. with a craft beer tastings from Sierra Nevada, Mother Earth, Bottle Logic, Lost Winds, and Laguna Beach Beer Company. Guests can sip craft beer, feast on delicious eats from local food trucks, enjoy live music from dance-fusion band Afrolicious, and watch 6 majestic tall ships over 130 feet in size sail in from the coast as the sun sets.

Mermaid lovers of all ages can enjoy the Breakfast with a Mermaid  Saturday, September 9 and Sunday, September 10 from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Guests will enjoy brunch, story time, and crafts and then watch our mermaids swim underwater in a nearby tank.

Experience the Tall Ships Festival on board a historical tall ship during Cannon Battle Sails! Guests ages 4 and older are invited to participate in a dramatic mock cannon battle on Saturday and Sunday from 4:30 – 7:30 p.m. with blasting cannons, towering rigging, and bustling decks.

The Tall Ships Festival Adventure Pass grants guests all day admission into the Festival and includes tours of the Brig Pilgrim, the Spirit of Dana Point, and all visiting vessels in addition to access to pirate encampments, exhibits, crafts, the craft beer garden and much more.

Prices vary per event and can be found at www.ocean-institute.org. Free parking is available at the designated shuttle lots located at Strand Vista Park and Dana Hills High School with free shuttle rides to the festival. Shuttles will run from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. from all lots.

OC Parks, Dana Point Harbor and Ocean Institute welcome guests to enjoy an unforgettable seaside adventure during the Tall Ships Festival September 8-10. For more information on activities, events, tickets, and parking visit https://www.ocean-institute.org/tall-ships-festival.

57th Annual San Clement Art and Craft Fair

San-Clement-Art-and-Craft-Fair

57th Annual San Clement Art and Craft Fair

August 19-20 at 10am-5pm with Free Admission

www.scartassociation.com

Facebook: San Clemente Art Association Arts and Craft Fair

San Clemente Community Center Grounds
100 N. Seville; San Clemente, CA

The San Clemente Community Center will be alive with fine art and handmade artisan crafts the weekend of August 19 and 20.  This year brings the 57th in a line of amazing art fairs hosted by the San Clemente Art Association.

Crafts will include fine arts, photography, wood working, textiles, hand-made jewelry, candles and many more irresistible items.  There will be hamburgers and all the trimmings served by the associations favorites.

The San Clemente Community Center is located at the corner of Avenida Del Mar and Calle Seville.

Orange County Fire Watch Exercise Deployment June 24

Orange County Fire Watch Exercise Deployment June 24

Orange County Fire Watch Exercise Deployment June 24

Fire Watch volunteers embark on a full-scale mock deployment across the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks in preparation of wildfire season.

Orange County, Calif. (June 19, 2017) – The Orange County Fire Watch program will hold a full-scale deployment exercise on Saturday, June 24 on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. The deployment exercise aligns with the 10th anniversary of the Santiago Canyon wildfires, and will give volunteers an opportunity to visit new Fire Watch locations and prepare for the coming dry season. Facilitated in partnership with OC Parks, City of Irvine, City of Newport Beach, Irvine Ranch Conservancy and Orange County Fire Authority, the Fire Watch volunteer program helps raise awareness on the risk of wildfires through education, early reporting, and deterrence.

Fire Watch staff have held emergency communications tests for volunteers in the past, but the upcoming deployment will be the first large-scale exercise for the program. The exercise is expected to include more than 100 Fire Watch volunteers and will be held across 34 Fire Watch locations on or near land managed by the Irvine Ranch Conservancy, including the new coastal zone that includes Buck Gully and Newport Coast Drive Lookout.

“This is our first full-scale deployment exercise,” commented Tony Pointer, Irvine Ranch Conservancy Program Coordinator for Fire Watch. “The deployment is designed to give volunteers access and encouragement to see Fire Watch locations they may not usually monitor. Considering this is the 10th anniversary of the Santiago Canyon fires, it seems more appropriate than ever to take a proactive approach.”

Fire Watch program volunteers monitor the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks and beyond by observing the perimeters of high-risk areas throughout Orange County. They deploy to specific locations determined by fire spread research and historical ignition data, and are trained to report suspicious or dangerous activity. Volunteers also assist with early detection and public outreach, and Fire Watch staff created the upcoming deployment exercise to be as realistic as possible. Actual deployment of Fire Watch volunteers occurs on Red Flag Warning days, Santa Ana Wind events, and/or in other special circumstances.

The exercise comes following near-record rainfall this past winter, which Pointer noted has aided the growth of nonnative grasses and invasive weeds in the region, which could dry out and become fodder to fuel wildfires.

“The rain we received has assisted the vegetation that has not had the best conditions to sprout and grow the last few years,” Pointer said. “The potential will be a combination of the increased vegetation growth and how hot and how severe the Santa Ana wind conditions will be this year.”

The simulation will begin June 23, the day prior to the field exercise, when volunteers will receive a recorded phone message alerting them to the staged Fire Watch conditions. After the call, volunteers will sign up for shifts at various locations throughout Orange County. Once onsite, volunteers will arrive in full uniform with vest, Fire Watch car magnets, IDs, and data logs, and participate in a full test report. Two hour shifts begin at 9 a.m. and conclude at 3 p.m. on June 24, and volunteers will engage with the public and report any situations that may cause accidental or intentional ignitions.

“Holding a large-scale exercise like this will be hugely beneficial, designed to broaden the volunteers’ knowledge of the Fire Watch locations and strengthen their skill set,” Pointer said.

For more information on the Fire Watch program and volunteering opportunities visit www.letsgooutside.org/activities/fire-watch/. For more information on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks visit www.LetsGoOutside.org.

2017 Summer Camp Guide

2017 Summer Camp Guide
Summer 2017

read more