Allen Automotive

Celebrating 70 Years in Orange County

In 1947, door-to-door bread salesman, Stanley Allen, opened the doors to what is now Allen Family Automotive Group. Echoing a simpler time when Harry S. Truman was President of the United States and a gallon of gas cost 15 cents, Stanley instilled strong family values into every facet of his business. This year, as they celebrate their 70th anniversary, the Allens continue to own and operate one of the the longest family-run automotive groups on the West Coast.

Over the next 25 years, Stanley Allen raised his family in South Orange County and became a fixture in the Laguna Beach community, selling Oldsmobiles and Cadillacs on Pacific Coast Highway. In the early 1970’s, Stanley’s son, Dennis, joined the family business and initiated a move to Laguna Niguel. Many were wary. At the time, Laguna Niguel was considered remote, boasting not much beyond orange groves and a freeway exit. Dennis’ vision proved to be a good one. Shortly thereafter, Allen added GMC to its product lines.

This year, the Allen Family Automotive Group also celebrates over 45 years in Laguna Niguel. They maintain the same core principles on which Stanley Allen built his reputation. His grandsons, Scott and Mitch, managed the dealership for many years before turning over duties to younger brother Cliff Allen.

Cliff Allen and his wife, Devon, keep busy with their own family — with sons Mason and Cooper and daughter Chloe. Cliff considers his team of employees to be his extended family. “We have so many hard-working people on our team who have been with us 20, 30, even 35 years,” says Cliff. “I’ve grown up with these people. I know that our customers feel that family energy when they are here. They feel the deep respect that we have for each other and that naturally spills over into the way our customers are treated at our stores. It’s part of our culture each day we open our doors.”

The Allen’s longevity has also created strong ties to their community. “The backbone of our dealerships is community involvement,” shares Cliff. “We support as many schools and charitable organizations as we possibly can. Our family has always carried a strong sense of giving back.”

These efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. Allen was recently named Laguna Niguel’s “Outstanding Business of the Year” and adds this honor to many other accolades, including recognition as “Family-Owned Business of the Year” from the Orange County Business Journal.

The Allen Family Automotive Group is now 4-brands strong featuring Cadillac, GMC, Hyundai and newcomer Genesis. “We have grown into our own auto mall, actually,” says Cliff. “Right now, we offer more than 60 models of cars, trucks, and SUVs in hundreds of different trims and option levels. Add to that our hybrid and plug-in options, and we have something for every buyer, for every taste and every spend level. It’s exciting for us to offer more choices than ever in our 70-year history.”

In this issue of The Local Dish, Allen GMC is in the spotlight. Years ago, GMC primarily sold work trucks and vans. Today, in addition to a full line of light and heavy duty pickup trucks, Allen GMC boasts the full line of GMC’s popular SUVs -Yukon, Acadia, and Terrain — all available in GMC’s ultra-luxurious “Denali” trim.

“There are so many families in our community and people who rely on these SUVs to provide comfort, safety, and room for everyone and their gear,” says Cliff. “They’re the perfect fit for the active market we’re in.”

“Over 70 years of our family serving your family” echoes in the messaging of this family-based business. Generations of Allen customers will tell you that it’s this family and their team that keeps them coming back for more.

Allen GMC  |  28332 Camino Capistrano  |  Laguna Niguel  |  949.485.3700  |  AllenGMC.com

by Veronica Badzey

Murf Electric Bikes opened its new retail shop in San Clemente in March of this year, and business is already booming. CEO and Founder Josh Jones started the company with business partner Alan Kang, after his first e-bike broke and the manufacturer refused to honor the warranty. “I knew we could build a quality product with better customer service,” says Josh, “and still make it affordably priced.”

Murf puts quality first, using the same components as big retailers, but with bigger, more powerful batteries than most of its competitors. With 750 watts of power and a 48-volt, 15.6-amp Samsung Lithium Ion battery, Murf e-bikes are right at the California limit to be considered street legal. Every bike is hand-assembled, in store, by the Murf team. The company offers free delivery to San Clemente residents, many of whom will appreciate a Murf e-bike’s ability to effortlessly tackle the area’s many hills, as well as bypass limited parking and traffic congestion. 

Convenience is just one of the many benefits of electric bikes, which allow riders to travel further distances and in much less time than traditional bikes. A Murf e-bike has an average range of 30-35 miles, depending on the rider’s weight and the terrain, and are perfect for cruising around town, commuting to work, and off-roading on dirt trails or sandy beaches. “Many consumers are trading in their cars for an e-bike,” relates Josh, “because of the convenience and cost-savings for local commuting. And,” he adds, “they’re just plain fun.”

The Murf family of Class 2 and 3 electric bikes offers three drive modes: 1) Full Electric, which acts like a motorcycle and requires no manual pedaling; 2) Pedal Assist, which gives an extra boost of power as you pedal; and 3) Manual Pedaling, which works like a regular bike. For a great, all-around premium ride, check out the Izzy Beach Cruiser or, its sister, the Pax Step-Through Cruiser. Both models are lightweight, agile, and extremely comfortable. Great for cruising or commuting, they reach a maximum speed of 20 mph, and provide superior maneuverability for navigating hills and city riding. If you’re looking for something more rugged, perhaps the Fat Murf, with extra-wide 4-inch tires is the one for you. It’s equipped with a sturdier frame and reaches speeds of up to 25 mph on flat surfaces.

All three models feature hardened aluminum alloy frames, premium Tektro front and rear disc brakes, a Bafang rear hub motor, and an integrated digital display that provides readouts for speed, distance, and battery level. Recharging is easy; simply plug into any standard 110-watt wall outlet, and you’ll be ready to ride in a modest 6 hours. Murf e-bikes are also fully customizable with a range of useful accessories, including surf racks, rear racks, and rear baskets.

Murf handles all of its warranty service in-house, guaranteeing that you’ll never get the run-around should there ever be a problem with your e-bike. All bikes come with an industry leading 2-year warranty on the bike and battery, plus free tune-ups for all of their loyal customers. Maintenance is the same as a standard bike, and the battery lasts for approximately 700-1000 charges, or about 2 years of every day use. Riders are reminded to obey all bike and traffic laws, and observe safety precautions such as wearing a helmet (legally required when riding the Fat Murf).

The true star of Murf Electric Bikes is Josh’s friend and company mascot Murf, a rescue dog he adopted nine years ago from a local shelter. He lives with Josh and his wife Kiara in San Clemente, where they recently welcomed the newest addition to the family, baby girl Kaia Harper Jones.

The best way to experience a Murf e-bike is to test drive one for yourself or to rent one for an afternoon. Murf Electric Bikes is located at 212 N. El Camino Real, Suite B, behind the Grill at Surfin Donuts and across the alley from Nomad’s Canteen. Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ride on!

Murf Electric Bikes  •  212 N El Camino Real Suite B, San Clemente  •  (949) 370-3801  •  MurfElectricBikes.com

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MemorialCare Medical Group

Breaking Ground at Sendero Marketplace

by Veronica Badzey

MemorialCare Medical Group is dedicated to providing the best value in exceptional health care to thousands of patients throughout Orange and Los Angeles Counties. This fall, it will be expanding its reach even further with the opening of of a new facility in the Sendero Marketplace, at the corner of Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway. 

“Our goal,” explains Laurie Sicaeros, Chief Operating Officer of MemorialCare Medical Foundation, “is to be the preferred providers for the families of Rancho Mission Viejo, as well as nearby Ladera Ranch.”

Set to open in Spring of 2019, a two-story, state-of-the-art medical center featuring comprehensive healthcare with an emphasis on wellness and preventative care will be constructed within Rancho Mission Viejo. The 26,000 square foot facility will also provide walk-in services for those who need immediate access to medical care without an appointment. Plans include a staff of six primary care physicians, including family practitioners, pediatricians, and specialists in internal medicine, pulmonology, orthopedics, and asthma/allergy, as well as a full complement of nurses, medical assistants, and front office personnel. In partnership with Saddleback Medical Center, the new location will offer a wide range of specialty services, including: asthma consultations, orthopedic services, cardiac testing, lab services, a breast center, EMT diagnostics, EKG tests, digital X-ray, and ultrasound, making them a one-stop shop for healthcare in the surrounding communities. 

In support of an active, outdoor lifestyle favored by many local residents, MemorialCare will also be partnering with the Ranch Life community association, by holding physician and dietician-led health education classes on a variety of topics such as diet, exercise, and asthma, as well as sponsoring Ranch Life community events.   

The interim location in Sendero Marketplace will be opening November 2017, while construction on the new building gets underway. It will provide many of the same services planned for the permanent location, including the Ranch Life education classes.  With a staff of three primary care physicians, (two family practitioners and one internal medicine specialist), as well as two medical assistants, an LVN, and front office staff, the temporary office will focus on providing well-rounded care, along with walk-in services. Office hours will be extended to six days a week, Monday through Saturday, to meet the needs of the growing community.

Patients at both the interim and permanent locations gain access to the broader MemorialCare network through its interactive EMR (electronic medical records) portal, myChart, powered by Epic Systems software. MyChart streamlines patient records into a one-chart system which is utilized by all MemorialCare hospitals, urgent care facilities and offices, seamlessly integrating communication between doctors and specialists at separate locations. Patients can log in to myChart from any digital device to view their medical history, schedule appointments online, and request prescription refills. If a patient arrives at a MemorialCare location needing emergency services, staff calls ahead to the hospital, apprising them of the situation through the EMR portal.

It’s not only technology that makes MemorialCare exceptional. Over the years, it’s evolved to meet the needs of the community and now serves a combined total of 660,000 annually through multiple locations in Orange and Los Angeles Counties, with 85% of urgent care and walk-in cases transitioning to permanent primary care patients. The high rate of patient retention attests to the quality of care provided by an exemplary staff of compassionate doctors, nurses, and support staff. Many MemorialCare doctors elect to live in the communities in which they work, participating in community events and taking the time to develop meaningful relationships with the patients they serve.

“It’s been truly inspiring,” says Laurie, “to see MemorialCare continue to grow and evolve to meet the needs of the local communities. I’ve been here for 20 years, and I’m continually amazed by our caring and compassionate doctors and staff.”

MemorialCare Medical Group accepts most major insurances, including Medicare. Look for the opening of the interim Sendero Marketplace location next to Gelson’s in November, with extended office hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.  to 2 p.m. 

TANNINS Restaurant & Wine Bar

By Veronica Badzey

When Gabriel Sanchez opened his small Italian deli over ten years ago, he had no idea it would become one of the finest restaurants in San Juan Capistrano. Combining old world style with a modern flair, Tannins Restaurant and Wine Bar has become more than an eatery specializing in delicious Mediterranean-Italian cuisine with exceptionally curated California wines. “We have evolved to take care of the customer’s needs,” says Gabe, “and the most important thing to me is our connection with the community.”

Guests walking into Tannins are often greeted by name, and the attentive and dedicated staff work diligently to create a welcoming, neighborhood atmosphere. With almost no employee turnover, Tannins’ staff has developed a tight family bond that enables them to deliver a more enjoyable experience to the customer. “I attribute our success to our amazing staff,” enthuses Gabe. Besides making an extra effort to get to know their clientele, the chefs and servers from Tannins can frequently be found volunteering for local charities and area schools, such as St. Margaret’s Episcopal School across the street, which provided Tannins with some of its first customers in its early days as a deli.

With menu items like Grilled Rib-Eye, Seafood Linguini, and handmade pizzas, it’s easy to find something to suit your palate. The restaurant’s signature olive spread provides a mouth-watering start to any dish, and a full range of delectable desserts such as Crème Brulée and Verona Tiramisu round out a truly decadent dining experience. Stop by for Tail Tuesday, Tannins answer to the Taco Tuesday trend. Savor filet and lobster tail, shipped in every week from the East Coast, for a mere $25.

Featuring Northern Mediterranean and Southern Italian cuisine, Tannins’ fare tends to be lighter than typical Italian offerings, accentuating quality, freshness, and environmentally conscious products. “We’re almost 100% green,” says Gabe, “and we’re always looking for ways to decrease our environmental footprint. It’s very important to our staff, and many of our customers.”

The restaurant’s layout encourages lively conversation between guests and staff, with a warm Mediterranean theme adding to its casual vibe. An open kitchen layout allows customers to interact directly with chefs as they prepare dishes and the pizza window gives you a view of your pie being made in real time. Modifications are always accommodated, and special requests are common, especially by regulars.

As the restaurant’s name implies, there’s a big emphasis on wine, specifically procurement and pairings. The wine list focuses almost exclusively on premiere California labels, because, as  Wine Manager Jesse Clanton puts it, “We live in the cradle of some of the best wines in the world.” With a talent for discovering local brands destined to become great successes – like the now-famous La Crema Chardonnay – Tannins is a treat for the connoisseur and causal wine drinker alike. “My goal is to bring you something you can’t find in your neighborhood grocery store,” shares Jesse, who sources new varietals from wine vendors on a weekly basis. Whatever your taste, you’re sure to find a new and exciting glass or bottle of white, red or bubbles that you’ve never experienced. Don’t hesitate to ask the knowledgeable staff for food and wine pairing recommendations; they gladly welcome the opportunity to assist.

For your next gathering or special event, ask about the Levendi Cave, an intimate, elegantly decorated room that’s perfect for rehearsal dinners, holiday parties, or even your monthly book club. Tannins’ Wine Cellar offers an ideal venue for business meetings or corporate functions. When you need an event catered, Tannins will accommodate any size party. No order is too small or too large, and a manager is always on call to tailor a menu to a customer’s specific needs and budget.

Tannins Restaurant and Wine Bar is open seven days a week, with Monday through Sunday lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wine Wednesdays offer half-priced bottles of wine, and Monday Happy Hour runs until 9 p.m., with reductions on even premium spirits. Visit TanninsRestaurant.com for more information and a glimpse of its private event spaces.

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Dr. Mogavero

Smile Success Stories

For the past 27 years, Dr. Frank Mogavero has been perfecting the art of the smile, helping thousands of patients find confidence and success in every aspect of their lives. His unique approach to dentistry always puts his patients first, and provides an energetic, fun, yet professional atmosphere where even the most anxious patient feels at home.

His tricked-out, San Clemente office includes genuine ski lift chairs from Mammoth Mountain, autographed photos from professional athletes, and a killer wall of signed skateboards from popular names in the sport. Known for treating X Games skaters, snowboarders, and extreme athletes, television personalities and other recognizable faces, Dr. Mogavero understands how important a great smile is for all of his patients, but especially those in the limelight. “I’ve always liked people,” relates Dr. Mogavero, “and working with kids. I love creating beautiful smiles and seeing how it transforms people’s lives, watching my patients grow down the line.”

The art of the smile is about more than cosmetics, which is why Dr. Mogavero specializes in both surgical and airway orthodontics — the science of realigning the teeth and facial bones to improve breathing and to alleviate airway obstacles. Patients who have suffered from chronic snoring, asthma, and ear infections can suddenly find relief through this often overlooked dental procedure.

Being a patient of Dr. Mogavero has never been easier. His conveniently located San Clemente office at Pico and La Pata is now accessible from San Juan Capistrano via the new La Pata Road connection. A redesigned website allows for online appointment requests and health histories so that managing your treatment is just a click away. Visit
SyncYourSmile.com to learn about Dr. Mogavero, his stellar team, Orthodontics, Invisalign and more.

Dr. Mogavero is a Board Certified Orthodontist (Baylor Orthodontics) with degrees in Dentistry and Biomedical Engineering from UCLA and is also a Premier Preferred Provider of Invisalign. He and his wife, Anna, live in San Clemente with their five children.

SEAN HARLOW, 22

Professional Football Player

Smile success story and former patient, Sean Harlow, now playing for the Atlanta Falcons.

CONNOR BRASHIER, 18

Lifestyle & Fashion Photographer

Taking photos and videos has always made me smile, and inspired me to start my own independent video business.  I now have over 19,000 followers on Instagram! Thanks to Dr. Mogavero, my great smile makes me feel more confident when working with notable clients such as Madison Beer, Jake Paul, and Jay Alvarez. I’m so lucky that my job is my passion, and look forward to a successful career in videography.

BROOKE KRUFAL (B’RAYNE), 14

Dancer, Rapper, Model

After losing my baby teeth and watching the crooked ones come in, I stopped wanting to smile for pictures. I felt really insecure about my smile. Now, thanks to Dr. Mogavero and his awesome staff, I have my confidence back. It makes a huge difference when going to auditions, performing at concerts, and shooting music videos. I love meeting my fans and smiling for the camera!

ARIANA WINSTEN, 18

Graduating Senior, Community Volunteer

Community service is a big part of my life, and I volunteer hundreds of hours in Orange County and LA, bringing food and necessities to hungry individuals and families. I make it a point to smile at each person and try to get to know them, because sometimes that’s all it takes to make a huge difference in someone’s life! Dr. Mogavero and his staff made me confident in my smile, ready to face the world.

San Clemente 1031 Ave. Pico, Ste. 101 • 949.373.3737
SyncYourSmile.com  •    Instagram & Twitter @drfrankm

Orange County Food, Wine & Music Festival

by Veronica Badzey

For the perfect summer kick-off event, come play at the 5th Annual Orange County Food, Wine, and Music Festival, taking place June 24th at Dana Point’s beautiful Sea Terrace Park. This year’s highlights include a 100 varietals of California and international wines, 40 craft breweries, culinary creations from dozens of food vendors, and one-of-a-kind treasures from nearly 100 artisans. All of this while enjoying sweeping ocean views, grassy hillsides, and fresh coastal breezes.

The Music
In celebration of its 5th Anniversary, the popular festival has secured a stellar line-up of musicians to entertain guests throughout the event. On the Craft Brew Main Stage, 40 oz. to Freedom, the Sublime Tribute band whose performance this year coincides with the 25th Anniversary of Sublime’s hit album of the same name, will energize participants with it’s thumping So Cal ska-reggae sounds. Also featured is the No Doubt and Gwen Stefani Tribute band No Duh, and the Faux Fighters, a rockin’ homage to the Foo Fighters, Dave Grohl and Nirvana. Orange County’s own DJ Peter G will be spinning all day in the Wine Area, and the Killer Dueling Pianos will keep the party going in the VIP Pavilion.

The Wine
International wines from countries such as France, Spain, Argentina, New Zealand, Australia, Germany, and Chile will be represented at this year’s event. Guests will also have the opportunity to sample varietals from the popular California regions of Napa, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, Sonoma, and Mendocino, just to name a few.

The Craft Brew
Craft brew connoisseurs can quench their thirst with tastes from up to 40 of the Festival’s craft breweries. Vista’s Belching Beaver, L.A.’s Angel City Brewery, Petaluma’s Lagunitas, San Diego’s Acoustic Ales, Newport Beach’s Newport Brewing Company and Laguna Beach’s own Laguna Beach Beer Company will be on hand to showcase their offerings.

The Food
Foodies need not fret! Dozens of gourmet vendors will serve up an eclectic mix of specialty food items; many of which have been created exclusively for the event. Guest will have the opportunity to nosh on Cajun catfish, meatloaf cupcakes, pineapple pork chops, paella, barbecue of all kinds, chicken cordon bleu, smoked tuna, African sausage, sushi, poke, and lots more.

The Shopping
Once you’ve quenched your thirst and indulged in delicious fare, you’ll have a chance to check out treasures from nearly 100 artisans, many from the surrounding areas of San Diego, L.A., Palm Springs and beyond. One-of-a-kind jewelry, art, and unique products not found anywhere else, can be snatched up for yourself or gifted to that special someone.

Getting In
A modest $10 gets you through the door, including access to all of the music, events, select beer and wine stands, and food. Once inside, beer or wine is a modest $8 per glass, soda and water are just $2 and food prices and portions will vary by vendor.

The Unlimited Sampling ticket is the most popular option. This ticket gives you all the perks of the General Admission ticket, and also includes a commemorative sampling glass that entitles you to unlimited samples from the up to 40 craft breweries and 100 varieties of wine from around the globe. The Unlimited Sampling ticket runs $50 through the end of May (the price increases to $60 on June 1). Don’t fear, the DISH has you covered. Visit FoodWineandMusIcFestival.com and enter code “DISH” to receive $10 off!

For the ultimate red-carpet experience, step up to the VIP treatment. Limited to the first 500 purchased, this ticket offers everything that the Unlimited Sampling ticket provides plus exclusive entry into the Grand VIP Pavilion. You’ll enjoy Killer Dueling Pianos, shaded seating, private restrooms, a complimentary meal from the selected event caterer, unlimited bite size samples from participating restaurants in the Pavillion, and complimentary full glasses of wine and beer. VIP tickets run $125 until the end of May (tickets increase to $150 on June 1). Be sure to purchase early and enter code “DISH” to save an additional $10. Buy now; VIP tickets sell out quickly.

Getting There
By far the best way to get to the event is through Uber or Lyft, which can drop you off right at the front steps of the event. If you plan to drive, free parking can be found along Stonehill Drive, Niguel Road, or Pacific Coast Highway. Paid and metered parking is available at the Salt Creek Beach parking lot with a short walk through the tunnel that runs under PCH. You may also park at Dana Hills High School and shuttle to and from the event; the ride to the Festival is complimentary and a $5 ticket can be purchased at the event box office for the ride back to the high school. The Dana Point city shuttle or the Laguna Beach trolley are also great options; both will drop you off at the Salt Creek Beach parking lot just steps from the event. See you there!

CHOC Children’s at Mission Hospital

The only dedicated pediatric hospital in South Orange County

Every baby is precious. Some arrive right on time with no complications. Others need a little more help entering the world. These tiniest lives, and their mothers, are in the best hands at CHOC Children’s at Mission Hospital, the only dedicated pediatric hospital in South Orange County, the surrounding coastal areas and north San Diego County.

A “hospital within a hospital,” CHOC Mission tends to the emotional and practical needs of its little patients and their caregivers, coupling compassionate care with the latest technologies to ensure the best outcomes for mothers and their babies. They work in partnership with maternal-fetal medicine specialists at Mission Hospital, where more than 3,000 babies are welcomed each year, including those whose moms have had complicated pregnancies and deliveries.

“Carrying a baby is an incredibly exciting time but it can be stressful as well, especially for women who are having a complicated pregnancy or who have faced challenges in their previous pregnancies,” says Dr. Vivien Pan, director of Mission Hospital’s Perinatal Diagnostic and Treatment Center (PDTC), which provides care to women with high-risk pregnancies. “At Mission Hospital and CHOC Mission, we’re uniquely equipped to help guide women through their pregnancies, keep them and their babies healthy, and deliver expert care when it’s needed.”

Catherine and Luke Steen of Ladera Ranch understand how important it is to have such compassionate care close to home. The couple had endured a miscarriage and then the loss of their baby, Ella, who died just four days after birth from a serious lung condition. When they discovered they were expecting for a third time, they found Dr. Pan, who closely monitored the pregnancy.

“As soon as I found Dr. Pan, I knew I was in good hands. I could tell immediately how incredibly smart she is in her field,” Catherine says. “She is compassionate and makes me feel comfortable. I wanted desperately to be a mom, and there was a time in my life when I wasn’t sure that was going to be possible.”

At 34 weeks, Catherine went into pre-term labor with twins. The babies were cared for in the NICU at CHOC Mission.

“In partnership with our laborist and the CHOC Mission neonatal intensive care unit, we were able to deliver her babies safely and see them through to health,” Dr. Pan says.

Now the mother of three beautiful daughters, Catherine looks back with gratitude.

“I am so incredibly grateful for Dr. Pan and the team at Mission Hospital and CHOC Mission for caring for us, guiding us and helping us fulfill our dream of bringing our babies home,” says Catherine.

With a labor and delivery staff that holds the safety of both mother and baby as the highest priority, Mission Hospital is the place women can count on when they need help with a complex pregnancy.

Ask your ob/gyn about getting a referral to a maternal fetal medicine physician if you are pregnant with more than one child, if you are over the typical age for giving birth, or if you have a history of complications. Miscarriages, early labor or delivery, or health conditions like diabetes or thyroid disease, can affect later pregnancies.

“If you have struggled with pregnancies in the past or have a history of premature delivery, you need extra care the next time you are expecting,” says Dr. Pan. “When we see a mother who has experienced something like that, our goal is to make sure with the subsequent pregnancy that both mother and baby are healthy. If we can do that, we know we’ve done something wonderful for a family.”

Healthy mothers and happy babies get their start at Mission Hospital and CHOC Mission. Pre-register early in your pregnancy, and welcome your newest family member with the support of Orange County’s leading maternity center. Call Mission Hospital at (949) 364-1400, or visit mission4health.com.

Acting Academy for Kids

It’s Time to Watch Your Stars Shine!

by Veronica Badzey

True to the world of theater, Acting Academy for Kids’s past year has been filled with both heartache and joy. Since 2008, Stephen and Maggie Zygo have operated their professional acting and film school out of the Camino Real Playhouse in San Juan Capistrano, but last year received word that the venue would soon be closing its doors. The news came on top of a diagnosis of Stage 3 cancer for Maggie the same day their 2nd son was born. With so much on their plates, the fate of the beloved acting school seemed uncertain. Despite these many challenges, Stephen and Maggie have emerged stronger than ever, ready for a progressive 2017 full of new beginnings. 

“We’ve been doing our best to manage all of this change,” says Stephen. “It’s been a unique juggling act. As a leader in the performing arts community for kids and teens, we’re committed to maintaining our reputation of excellence and are excited about the next chapter,” he enthuses.

March 31st will see the Acting Academy’s last classes taught at the Camino Real Playhouse, but instead of a final curtain call, the impending closure ushers in a new era. Maggie and Stephen have found a new “forever” home at a fantastic location in San Clemente close to Avenida Pico and the 5 Freeway inside the Holiday Inn Express.

Designed in grand 1920’s Hollywood style, the spacious building is in the process of being converted into a fully functional theater, complete with a TV/film studio, recording studio, concession area, dressing rooms, a costume shop and rehearsal rooms. Registration is already open for Spring Session, and classes begin April 10th at the new “Z Playhouse.” The school has also filed for non-profit status and is actively seeking donations to help defray build-out costs. 

Stephen and Maggie have also joined forces with Community Roots Academy in Laguna Niguel, which recently invested substantial resources in new technology and infrastructure for its facility. Community Root’s 400-seat theater offers an ideal setting for the Acting Academy’s spring musical theater production of Beauty and the Beast, as well as the school’s popular Performing Arts Summer Camps, which start the first week of June. These week-long classes for kids, ages 4-13, feature fun themes like Hawaiian Moana, Harry Potter, and Beauty and the Beast, and will be held at Z Playhouse, Community Roots, and the Acting Academy’s newest location — OC Music and Dance in Irvine.

Started by Charlie Zhang, CEO and founder of Pick Up Stix, OC Music and Dance is Orange County’s only non-profit community music school. It hosts several professional music, dance, and theater groups, including the Pacific Symphony, of which Mr. Zhang is the top donor.  Acting Academy for Kids was handpicked to represent the dramatic arts department at this dynamic new school, and will be providing classes in musical theater, TV, and film.

The film school at Acting Academy for Kids has grown from its modest beginnings into an 18-week conservatory program, complete with its own website – AA4Kstudios.com. The curriculum includes 36 hours of instruction, a mid-term report for each student, experience in crewing a film, and the opportunity for students to act in their own short films. Each film premieres at a Red Carpet Gala at San Juan Capistrano’s Regency Theater where students see themselves on the silver screen! Students receive reels of their work, professional IMDb (Internet Movie Database) credit, and the opportunity to work with professionals in the industry to gain a well-rounded experience as TV/film actors.

Despite all the struggles of the past year, Acting Academy for Kids has only grown stronger, and is more deeply committed to its mission than ever. “This year has given us an amazing opportunity to change a lot of young kids’ lives,” explains Stephen. “Our vision is to launch all three of these locations, with education still being the heart of what we do . . . teaching kids the arts through learning and having fun at the same time.”

Acting Academy for Kids    |    Ages 4-17    |    ActingAcademyForKids.com    |    949.427.0072