Saddleback, CA August 2026

Kids & Pets Issue EDUCATION

CH ILD EN RI CH M ENT: FAIRM O NT SCH O O L S & L AGU NA FEN CIN G

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REMODELING, KITCHEN, BATHROOM, FLOORING & MORE KITCHEN REMODEL $26,900 Cabinet: Select RTA cabinet style from our showroom up to 40 linear ft Countertop: fabrication and installation, many to

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Porcelain Tile material and installation of shower walls and shower floor Shower glass, including one panel and one door Bathroom Flooring & Baseboards up to 60 Sq Ft,

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SECONDARY BATHROOM REMODEL $15,900 Demolition, Framing, Plumbing, Hot Mop

Shower Porcelain Tile, Material and Installation

Flooring and Baseboards, Material and Installation, up to

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KEEP THE VACATION VIBES GOING BEYOND SUMMER The kids may be heading back to school, but your summer routine doesn’t have to end. At ClubSport, you can work out, unwind by the pool, and recharge with Full-Body Red Light by LightStim® and the recovery-focused R&R Suite, all designed to help you feel your best all year long.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Backpacks, Bowls & Big Dreams It’s August, and in our household, that means one thing: back-to-school season. Summer always seems to fly by, and before we know it, the anticipation of a busy fall schedule has arrived.

When my husband and I chose to make South Orange County our home, we were drawn to its strong sense of community, family friendly focus, and small-town feel. I have a feeling many of you were drawn here for the same reasons. We are fortunate to live in a community filled with opportunities for families to connect and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a day at the beach, a visit to a local museum, dining at one of our wonderful restaurants, or enjoying a Sunday stroll through the farmers market, there are countless ways to enjoy time together with beautiful Saddleback Mountain as our backdrop.

Fittingly, we’ve dedicated this issue to celebrating kids and pets, two subjects that hold a very special place in my heart. As a mother of two children and one very loved furry baby, they truly are my world. I can never get enough tips, ideas, and inspiration when it comes to helping our children thrive and ensuring our pets live happy, healthy lives.

This season feels especially meaningful as my daughter prepares to start high school. It’s hard to believe how quickly the years have passed. As the new school year begins, I wish all the students, parents, teachers, and lifelong learners in our community a successful and rewarding school year ahead.

In this issue, we celebrate several organizations that help make our community so special. We highlight Laguna Fencing and Coach Nick Dinu, whose athletes embody discipline, confidence, and determination. We feature Wolfgang Bakery & Grooming and the exceptional care they provide for our beloved pets. We also showcase the Moulton Museum, which preserves Orange County’s rich ranching history, Fairmont Schools, one of the region’s premier private school systems, and the iconic Sawdust Art Festival, a beloved Laguna Beach tradition that celebrates local artists and creativity.

As we welcome the fall season, I encourage you to continue supporting the local businesses, schools, nonprofits, and community organizations featured throughout these pages.

Thank you for welcoming Saddleback City Lifestyle into your homes each month. Wishing you and your family a wonderful end to summer and a successful start to the new school year.

A warm welcome to our newest photographer, Noah McPherson. We can’t wait to showcase his incredible talent and creative vision.

T O R A L PA R M A R , P U B L I S H E R @ S A D D L E B A C KC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

August 2026 PUBLISHER

Toral Parmar | toral.parmar@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Nick Parmar | nick.parmar@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Paige Candee | paige.candee@citylifestyle.com STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R

Travis Shields | Travis@shieldsfilms.com STAF F W R I T E R

Heather Holmes Whistt heather.holmes1130@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Heather Holmes Whistt, Paige Candee, Debbie Speik C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Autumn Ricketts, Travis Shields, Eric Stoner

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Saddleback City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Saddleback area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Saddleback City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

inside the issue AUGUST 2 0 2 6 | K I D S & PETS

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Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

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WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

A Different Kind of Sport

Laguna Fencing Center offers kids focus, discipline, and a place to belong

Paws with Heart

Couple channels love, loss, and new beginnings into a petcentered business

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Lifestyle Letter

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City Scene

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Business Monthly

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Get Active SPORTS + RECREATION

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Pet Care LOCAL SERVICES

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Education Corner EDUCATION

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Kids Corner EDUCATION

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Must See LIFE + CULTURE

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Inspired By LIFE + CULTURE

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Events

Local History Alive

A hands-on Laguna Hills museum makes regional history engaging, interactive, and family-friendly

On the Cover With their child and rescue pup, the owners of Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Laguna Niguel are building more than a pet business—they’re creating a community of compassion, connection, and the special bond between pets and families.

Photography: Autumn Ricketts

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AUGUST 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

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1: Blue Moon Pilates, a Mission Viejo Pilates education and wellness studio, celebrated 24 years in business. 2: Owner of Blue Moon with longtime friend TVF Photographer Andy Coles enjoyed the community event. 3: Blue Moon Pilates invested in and supported local businesses and artists. 4: Guests enjoyed shopping with friends, family and neighbors. 5: Blue Moon Matcha and a healthy lunch was provided.

6: The event reflected Blue Moon Pilates' mission of "Clients • Community • Each Other." 7: Attendees received a complimentary sound bath and Blue Moon Stone Meditation experience.

Photography by TVF Photos

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TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ S A D D L E B A C K C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

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C I T Y SC E N E

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AUGUST 2026

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Blue Sands Wealth Supports Working Wardrobes Luncheon Effort Blue Sands Wealth partnered with Working Wardrobes during the inaugural Power Within Luncheon, an event that raised more than $100,000 to support employment programs. The gathering highlighted community efforts to expand workforce access and recognized five Orange County women for leadership and service. The collaboration reflects shared priorities around economic mobility, with Blue Sands Wealth aligning its local outreach with organizations focused on job readiness, career development, and long-term employment sustainability across the broader region.

Scan to read more

Photography by Blue Sands Wealth

Marina Hills Animal Hospital Marks Facility Expansion Marina Hills Animal Hospital in Laguna Niguel held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to recognize the completion of its facility expansion. The project represented a new phase for the veterinary practice as it increased its capacity to serve pets and their owners throughout South Orange County. Community members, staff and supporters attended the event.

Photography by Marina Hills Animal Hospital

Boxing Class Helps Local Resident Rebuild Strength Jim Broncatello, a former principal, wrestling coach and Hall of Fame referee, had recovered from a coma, sepsis, a heart attack and three strokes before joining a boxing class at his Watermark Laguna Niguel community. The light exercise session led by a young amateur boxer became a turning point. Jim regained mobility, confidence and joy, while the class also became a source of connection and purpose for residents.

Photography by Watermark Laguna Niguel

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

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LAGUNA FENCING CENTER OFFERS KIDS FOCUS, DISCIPLINE, AND A PLACE TO BELONG

ARTICLE BY HEATHER WHITSITT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRAVIS SHIELDS

A DIFFERENT

KIND OF SPORT For many kids, sports are a way to build skills, make friends, and discover what they are capable of. At Laguna Fencing Center, those lessons happen with a mask, a weapon, and a healthy dose of strategy.

Leading the way is founder and head coach Nick Dinu, whose passion has grown into a thriving community in Orange County. “My journey into fencing began when I was 10 years old in my native country of Romania,” Nick says. “At the time, I was playing traditional team sports like soccer and basketball,

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G E T ACT IV E | SP O RTS + R E CRE AT ION

but everything changed when a friend invited me to a tryout at the local fencing club.”

That introduction inspired a lifelong love of fencing. Drawn to the sport’s speed, challenge, and emphasis on personal responsibility, Nick eventually turned a childhood interest into a career dedicated to helping young athletes grow.

Today, Laguna Fencing Center welcomes students of all ages and experience levels. While some arrive with competitive aspirations, others simply want to try something new.

No matter what their goals are, students are encouraged to learn, improve, and enjoy the journey. “At Laguna Fencing Center, our mission is to make the art and sport of fencing accessible, engaging, and rewarding for everyone,” he says.

What makes fencing especially appealing for children is the balance between physical movement and mental problem-solving.

Success is not determined by size or strength alone. Instead, athletes learn to think quickly, anticipate opponents’ moves, and make smart decisions under pressure. For many children, developing these skills helps them feel more confident both in and out of the club.

The center has also worked hard to make fencing approachable for families who may have never considered it before. Alongside competitive training, the club hosts camps, special events, and activities designed to introduce newcomers to fencing in a welcoming setting.

Like many youth organizations, Laguna Fencing Center faced significant obstacles during the pandemic. Temporary closures challenged the club to find creative ways to stay connected with students.

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Through virtual lessons, online training sessions, and later outdoor practices, the center maintained momentum while strengthening relationships with athletes and families.

“Surviving the pandemic closures was a major turning point for our business,” recalls Nick. “It solidified our resilience and showed us that Laguna Fencing Center is more than just a physical space, it is a tight-knit family.”

That sense of community remains central to the club’s identity, even as it continues to flourish. With an accomplished coaching staff that includes Olympic-level expertise, the organization has earned recognition on the national stage while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for beginners.

From Nick’s perspective, the greatest reward is seeing students develop qualities that will serve them throughout their lives. “The most rewarding part of my profession is watching my students transform into the best versions of themselves, both on and off the fencing strip,” he said.

Throughout the summer, Laguna Fencing Center has introduced many young athletes to fencing through its beginner camps, helping kids discover a sport that challenges both the mind and the body.

For many young athletes, stepping onto the strip is more than learning a new sport—it’s an opportunity to challenge themselves and gain confidence along the way.

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G E T ACT IV E | SP O RTS + R E CRE AT ION

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ARTICLE BY HEATHER WHITSITT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUTUMN RICKETTS

PAWS WITH HEART

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P E T CA R E | LO CAL SERVICE S

A L AG U N A N I G U EL CO U P L E C H A N N EL S LOV E , LO S S , A N D N E W B E G I N N I N G S I N TO A P E T- C EN T ER ED B U S I N E S S B U I LT O N C A R E , CO N N E C T I O N , A N D CO M M U N I T Y

Within the span of a year, Jiten and Charisma Bhakta welcomed their first child, rescued a puppy named Max, and opened Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming in Laguna Niguel.

It was a season marked by both new beginnings and difficult goodbyes.

The same day they learned they were expecting their first child, their dog Thor, who had been by Jiten’s side through college, marriage, career changes, and countless everyday moments, was diagnosed with cancer.

“Loving him through his final chapter changed us and reminded us just how deep the bond between pets and families is,” says Charisma.

That time stayed with them, shaping what they would eventually build. In the months that followed Thor’s passing, they welcomed their son. Before long, they rescued their pup, Max, wanting their child to grow up alongside a furry best friend of his very own.

Today, Woof Gang has evolved into more than a grooming salon and pet boutique. The Bhaktas have fostered an environment

based on trust, communication, and attentive care. Each pet is treated as an individual, a philosophy that carries into their daily work, and their team takes time to understand each dog’s personality while guiding owners with a personal touch.

“Education is a huge part of who we are,” notes Charisma.

“From helping achieve specific goals to understanding coat conditions, comforting and cuddling nervous pets, guiding pet parents through products, nutrition, and every pet need, our groomers and retail staff work hard to provide support that goes beyond simply booking a service or purchasing a product.”

Small details echo that approach, from personalized bandanas and post-visit report cards to thoughtful acknowledgments of life’s milestones, including new puppies and birthdays to times of loss.

Over time, familiar faces become part of regular routines, young puppies return as adult dogs, and many even start to recognize the route before they’ve even hopped out of the car.

“Seeing returning clients trust us repeatedly, watching dogs get excited to walk through our doors, watching puppies grow up CONTINUED >

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"WE HOPE TO GROW INTENTIONALLY WHILE STAYING TRUE TO WHAT MATTERS MOST TO US: A SMALL, FAMILY-CENTERED BUSINESS BUILT ON TRUST, COMPASSION, AND GENUINE CONNECTION WITH PETS AND THEIR PEOPLE."

and experience their first grooms, being a part of growing families, and watching our toddler and pup grow up alongside our shop and staff made us realize we are not just building a business, we are building relationships,” says Charisma.

Like many small business owners, the couple has navigated its share of challenges, from construction delays and financial pressure to the work of cultivating a reliable, value-driven team.

Through it all, they have remained focused on what they set out to develop from the beginning.

“We hope to grow intentionally while staying true to what matters most to us: a small, family-centered business built on trust, compassion, and genuine connection with pets and their people,” says Charisma.

As Woof Gang continues to grow, their attention remains on the partnerships that define their mission. Charisma notes, “From clients getting to know our retail and grooming staff and becoming part of our personal lives, to our toddler now knowing staff, dogs, and clients who witness his growth; from our pup taste-testing all the treats, to a community that makes the hard days worth it.”

Upcoming plans include events such as seasonal celebrations, a gratitude-themed “Thankful for Tails” initiative, and a second annual Howl-o-ween costume contest.

“Our team has become family, our clients became friends, and their pets became a part of our lives,” says Charisma. “We are incredibly grateful for the support we have received and are excited for what’s ahead.”

As so much of daily life moves faster and further online, Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Laguna Niguel offers a more grounded experience, where trust grows gradually and a strong sense of community is formed through everyday moments.

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YOUR SUMMER ESCAPE Create memories of a lifetime with family and friends this summer in Dana Point. Savor exceptional cuisine overlooking ocean views at RAYA by Chef Richard Sandoval and 180 BLU. Relax and discover the new era of Spa with inspired treatments featuring high quality products. Retire to newly renovated guestrooms and catch an extraordinary sunset over s’mores created in your guestroom’s personal outdoor firepit.

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WHERE PASSION MEETS PURPOSE: Fairmont San Juan Capistrano

PASSION-DRIVEN. PURPOSE-LED. PERSONALLY KNOWN. ARTICLE BY DEBBIE SPEIK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FAIRMONT VIDEO TEAM

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EDU CAT ION COR N E R | ED U CAT ION

For many South Orange County parents, choosing a school comes down to one essential question: Can my child be challenged to achieve more while still being understood, supported, and valued as an individual?

At Fairmont San Juan Capistrano, those priorities are central to the school experience.

Serving students from preschool through grade 8, Fairmont SJC combines rigorous academics, individualized learning, and a close-knit community where every child is personally known.

Conveniently located off Interstate 5 near the Junipero Serra Road exit, the school is easily accessible from throughout South Orange County.

Although the campus opened in 2020, it builds on Fairmont Schools’ more than seven decades of educational experience in Orange County.

That proven foundation is paired with the warmth of a close-knit campus, giving families the confidence of an established educational model and the personal connection of a community where relationships matter.

ACADEMIC GROWTH. PERSONALIZED LEARNING.

Fairmont SJC’s approach is producing measurable results. Students consistently exceed national benchmarks, with academic performance achievement above the 80th percentile across reading and math.

Behind those results is the commitment to understanding how each student learns. Teachers recognize when greater challenge is needed, provide focused support when a child encounters difficulty, and help students build the confidence to keep progressing.

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This combination of high expectations and personal attention develops more than academic knowledge. Students learn to ask thoughtful questions, communicate their ideas, persevere through challenges, and take increasing ownership of their learning.

Just as importantly, they are personally known. Teachers, school leaders, and staff build meaningful relationships with students and families. Parents have access to leaders who are visible, responsive, and invested in each child’s development, creating a true partnership between home and school.

A LEARNING JOURNEY THAT GROWS WITH THE CHILD

That culture of connection begins in preschool and continues through middle school.

In the early years, learning is rooted in exploration, creativity, movement, and purposeful play. Children build strong literacy, numeracy, and social foundations while developing confidence, independence, and a genuine enjoyment of learning.

In elementary school, core learning in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies is enriched by Spanish, art, music, STEM, physical education, and library. Hands-on projects, leadership opportunities, extracurricular activities, and global experiences help students apply their knowledge, discover their interests, and strengthen their communication and collaboration skills.

By middle school, students are prepared to take greater responsibility for their academic choices, learning habits, and personal goals. A rigorous curriculum is complemented by electives, athletics, clubs, student government, and leadership opportunities.

STEM and science labs, robotics spaces, art and music rooms, a library, gym, sports fields, and specialized training areas give students room to explore and grow.

Throughout every stage, students are challenged to progress, supported as individuals, and encouraged to become active participants in their education.

A DISTINCTIVE PATHWAY FOR STUDENT ATHLETES

For middle school student athletes, Fairmont SJC offers a distinctive pathway through the Fairmont Athletic Academy.

The academy combines Fairmont’s rigorous academics with elite training integrated into the school day. Students participate in strength and conditioning, speed and agility development, and sport-specific training, supported by personalized plans, professional coaching, and performance technology.

The model helps families balance demanding training schedules with academics, family life, rest, and recovery. It also develops qualities that extend beyond competition, including discipline, perseverance, time management, accountability, teamwork, and resilience.

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EDU CAT ION COR N E R | ED U CAT ION

LEARNING WITHOUT BORDERS

Global learning is also woven into the Fairmont SJC experience.

Fairmont Schools is part of International Schools Partnership, a global community of 118 schools across 26 countries.

Through international projects, competitions, cultural exchanges, and collaboration with peers around the world, students broaden their perspectives while developing communication, adaptability, empathy, leadership, and collaboration.

These experiences help students appreciate different viewpoints, engage confidently with others, and recognize their ability to contribute meaningfully beyond their immediate community.

THE WARRIOR SPIRIT

Across academics, athletics, leadership, and campus life, Fairmont SJC is united by its Warrior Spirit.

Warrior Spirit is expressed through perseverance when learning becomes difficult, integrity in everyday choices, resilience in the face of setbacks, and the courage to keep moving forward.

Students learn that success is not only about the result, but also about the character, effort, and purpose they bring to the journey.

That philosophy is captured in the school’s defining ethos: Passion-Driven. Purpose-Led. Personally Known.

At Fairmont San Juan Capistrano, students do not have to choose between being challenged and being supported, pursuing excellence and experiencing belonging, or discovering their passions and developing the discipline to pursue them.

They are encouraged to do all three.

LAGUNA FENCING CENTER

Develop confidence, quick thinking, and decision-making skills.

Private lessons, birthday parties and team building events!

As an NCAA sport, our fencers are consistently recruited by the Ivy Leagues and top universities.

Competitive and recreational group classes for all ages.

Visit lagunafencing.com for your free trial class.

(949) 215-4112 | 26062 Merit Circle, Ste. 103, Laguna Hills CA @lagunafencingcenter | info@lagunafencing.com

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LOCAL HISTORY ALIVE ARTICLE BY HEATHER WHITSITT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC STONER

A HANDS-ON LAGUNA HILLS MUSEUM MAKES REGIONAL HISTORY ENGAGING, INTERACTIVE, AND FAMILY-FRIENDLY

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K I D S COR N E R | EDUCATION

“Museums are special places because they offer an opportunity for self-directed learning."

History may not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a family outing, but the Moulton Museum is changing that. Housed in converted storefronts in Laguna Hills, the museum brings interactive exhibits, hands-on activities and engaging community programs, the museum invites visitors to discover what shaped South Orange County.

The museum was founded after relatives of Louise Moulton recognized the historical significance of the ranch artifacts she had preserved.

Today, it serves as a place where local history feels personal and accessible.

“The Moulton Museum is free to visit and volunteer supported, which means we are a genuine expression of our community and neighbors,” explains Dr. Elisabeth I. Lange, the museum’s executive director. “We are also the only local history museum in South Orange County, and the only one in all of Southern California dedicated to the ranching heritage of the early 20th century.”

That welcoming, community-driven approach is evident from the moment visitors arrive. Visitors can explore the story of the region’s ranching culture, discover how neighboring communities developed, and encounter artifacts that connect everyday places with the people who helped shape them.

One of the biggest draws for young visitors is “Know the Flow,” an interactive exhibit that transforms water management into a collaborative challenge.

Designed with game-inspired mechanics, it encourages problem solving, teamwork, and curiosity. Families can work together as challenges become increasingly complex, making it equal parts entertaining and educational.

Beyond its galleries, the museum offers more to explore through tours, rotating exhibitions, and special programs. A recent partnership with Aliso Viejo Ranch introduced “Ranch Round Up,” a field trip experience that gives students an immersive look at life on a working ranch.

By taking learning beyond traditional museum walls, the program helps children connect history with the landscape around them.

A dedicated community of volunteers and supporters helps bring many of the museum’s programs to life. “We are always looking for new volunteers.

With more volunteers, we have more opportunities to expand our public hours. We are also always looking for repeat visitors at our events; I know those are always my favorite people to see,” says events coordinator and social media manager Jacquelyn Sharga.

Whether stopping after lunch or planning a weekend outing, families will find a welcoming place to explore local history together, spark new conversations, and discover something unexpected along the way.

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SAWDUST ART FESTIVAL TURNS 60 LAGUNA BEACH’S ICONIC EVENT WELCOMES FAMILIES ALL SUMMER

ARTICLE BY PAIGE CANDEE PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SAWDUST ART FESTIVAL

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M UST SE E | L I FE + C ULTU RE

Tucked beneath towering eucalyptus trees in Laguna Beach Canyon, the Sawdust Art Festival is celebrating a major milestone this summer: 60 years of art, community, and creative spirit. Now open through September 6, the beloved festival continues to draw families, art lovers, and curious visitors looking for an experience that feels both vibrant and deeply rooted in local culture.

What began in 1965 as a small gathering of independent artists has grown into one of Southern California’s most cherished creative traditions. Despite

its evolution, Sawdust has held tightly to its founding philosophy: art should be accessible, personal, and created by the very people sharing it.

Today, more than 180 local artists fill the open-air grounds with handcrafted works spanning painting, ceramics, jewelry, glass, sculpture, and more.

Visitors can stroll winding paths, meet artists in their booths, and watch live demonstrations that bring each piece to life. It is this direct connection—artist to visitor—that continues to set Sawdust apart.

For families, the festival offers an especially welcoming environment. Kids can engage with art in a hands-on way, sparking creativity beyond the classroom, while parents appreciate the relaxed, outdoor setting. The festival’s casual layout makes it easy to explore at your own pace, whether stopping to listen to live music or pausing for a quick creative activity.

Even four-legged family members are part of the experience. With its openair design and laid-back atmosphere, Sawdust is a comfortable outing for those who enjoy bringing their pets along for the day, making it a true reflection of Laguna Beach’s lifestyle.

Beyond the art, the festival has expanded its offerings this year to include an elevated culinary lineup. Guests can enjoy everything from coastal-inspired dishes and sushi to Wagyu burgers and nostalgic soft serve. Local favorite Taco Loco also joins the mix, adding to the distinctly community-driven feel of the event.

Despite its growth, Sawdust remains deeply connected to its roots. Longtime artists, including founding members, still play an active role in shaping

the festival’s identity. That continuity is part of what makes the experience feel so authentic, visitors are not just viewing art, but stepping into a living creative legacy.

“This milestone is a celebration of the artists and community members who have shaped Sawdust over the past 60 years,” says General Manager Thomas Hartmann. “It’s still a place where guests can connect directly with artists and experience the creative energy that defines Laguna Beach.”

That energy extends beyond the summer months. Through year-round classes, workshops, and its Sawdust Enrichment Fund, the organization continues to support arts education and provide opportunities for local students and underserved communities.

Whether it is a spontaneous afternoon outing or a planned family tradition, the Sawdust Art Festival offers something increasingly rare: a chance to slow down, connect, and experience creativity together. Six decades in, it remains not just an event, but a meaningful part of Laguna Beach’s cultural heartbeat.

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TREY & KATIE

KENNEDY

ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE

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I NSP IR E D BY | L I FE + C ULT U RE

Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage.

Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.

Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.

Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.

“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”

Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.

After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”

The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s.

“There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.

F E AT U R I N G T R E Y & K AT I E K E N N E DY Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.

ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE

Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.

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AUGUST 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

AU G U ST 6T H

Art, Jazz, Wine & Chocolate Festival of Arts, 650 Laguna Canyon Road | 5:30 PM Chocolate, wine, and jazz sweeten up the Festival of Arts this summer. On Thursday nights, indulge your senses at the “Art, Jazz, Wine and Chocolate” series. August 6th will feature performer Spencer Day. Register at foapom.com.

AU G U ST 7 T H

Late Night BMX Night Laguna Niguel Skate and Soccer Park | 9:30 PM Grab your bike on Friday, August 7 from 9:30 p.m. to midnight, for an exclusive late-night BMX session at the park. Gates will be open late for BMX riders to tear it up under the lights. Giveaways and refreshments will be available. Contact lnskatepark@cityoflagunaniguel.org for more information.

AU G U ST 1 4 T H

Courtyard Concert (National Senior Citizen's Day) Sea Country Senior & Community Center | 1:30 PM Celebrate National Senior Citizen's Day with the summer breeze, dance to upbeat live music, and cherish the memories made with friends and family. All attendees must be pre-registered. Contact scscc@cityoflagunaniguel.org for more information.

AU G U ST 1 4 T H

Summer Concert: The Kings of 88 Crown Valley Park | 6:30 PM Experience the final Endless Summer Night of the 2026 Summer Concert Series. Free shuttle service is available from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Parking is available at City Hall. For more information, contact recreation@cityoflagunaniguel.org.

CONTINUED >

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events

CONTINUED

AUGUST 21ST

Sea Country Festival Aliso Creek Road, between Alicia and La Paz | 5:00 PM The City of Laguna Niguel's Parks and Recreation Department will be hosting a 3-day festival starting Friday, August 21st through Sunday, August 23rd.

The festival is a free entry event, with nominal fees for attractions, games, and food. For sponsorships and event details, visit cityoflagunaniguel.org.

AUGUST 22ND

4th Annual American Cancer Society Paddle for the Battle Felipe Tennis and Recreation Center | 10:00 AM

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Our goal is to provide you with quality plumbing service at an affordable price.

Mission Viejo’s 4th Annual American Cancer Society Paddle for the Battle is a pickleball fundraiser supporting a meaningful cause. The event features wheelchair, para standing, mixed doubles, women’s doubles, and men’s doubles divisions for all skill levels. Players compete in rotating doubles round-robin matches, with registration per player and check-in required 30 minutes before division start times.

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