For the past 18 years I have had the pleasure of meeting amazing entrepreneurs and family business owners. I took a stab at creating my own path in business when I launched The Local DISH Magazine in September 2007. The passing of time hits me when I look at my nineteen-year-old son who was only one when I started the publication. An inaugural client asked me recently, “How old is your boy now?” They were taken aback by my reply. They remember my family Christmas cards with a toddler on my lap.
I’m forever grateful to all my advertisers who entrust me for their marketing efforts. I specifically want to thank Skip Meyers of ReelTime Sight & Sound, Chris Pernick from Paws Pet Resorts, Gary Folgner of The Coach House, Dan Lefler of DanMan’s Music, Frank Torriero of Sun Tamers, Tom and Donna Schuster of South Coast Shutter and Shades, Dennis Penman of Sanctuary Home & Patio, Gabe Sanchez of Tannins, Eric Bollmann of Gentle Genie and Mike Nicolai of Triton Air. Many of these partners have been with me for the entire ride. It’s never easy owning your own business, and my mission remains the same, helping local businesses reach their local customers.
Thanks for supporting all the advertisers, your neighbors, within The Local Dish Magazine!
PUBLISHER Matthew Vicelja
—Matthew Vicelja, Publisher
Kim Lalla
Mikii’s On Del Mar is your one-stop local shop for the most clever, unique gifts and party supplies! Personalized service and everything you need to celebrate life’s moments—big and small.
• Cabinets Free Demolition. Style: White Shaker Customize up to 50 ln. ft. Fabrication & Installation.
• Countertop Material: Choose from over 100 selected quartz varieties with 6-inch backsplash. Fabrication & Installation.
• Plumbing Standard Plumbing included.
We do complete remodels. No project is too big or too small. Our promise to you is simple “peace of mind” working with our professionals while getting the best product and value. Our visionary designers will give you the attention you deserve to help you select material and a custom design to fit your taste and budget. You get the benefit of working with one of the most experienced project managers in the area with over 20 years of managing millions of dollars of public and private projects. He is a registered civil engineer and a licensed contractor. You will love working with our pleasant and skillful installers.
Nikki Valim, Owner
EXPECT
PEACE OF MIND AND A PLAN: WHY MORE SENIORS ARE CHOOSING REATA GLEN
When Gary and Lola Bingham started exploring retirement options, they weren’t just looking for a place to live; they were seeking peace of mind.
“We moved to California 15 years ago from Long Island,” said Gary. “We had no children, so we knew we had to look out for our future.”
The Binghams join a growing number of Baby Boomers seeking retirement options that provide a practical lifestyle. It’s no surprise that their research led them to Reata Glen, a Life Plan community in South Orange County that continues to earn
recognition for Orange County Register readers as one of the area’s top retirement communities.
FINALLY — A PLAN THAT MAKES SENSE
For many Baby Boomers, aging in place sounds appealing in theory—until reality sets in. Rising in-home health care costs (now reaching nearly $300,000 annually, according to AARP), along with the unpredictability of long-term care needs, can cause stress for the entire family.
Reata Glen’s Life Plan model offers a smart option. With a repayable entrance fee and predictable monthly costs, residents gain priority access to the adjacent health center for assisted living, memory care, and long-
term care in a skilled nursing center, if ever needed—creating real peace of mind for residents and their families.
“One of the things that drew us to Reata Glen was the health care center,” Gary said. “We’re independent now, but over time, if we ever need more assistance, it’s nearby. And if one of us needs to go there, it’s just a 10-minute walk for the other to visit.”
A LIFESTYLE THAT INSPIRES
While the future is thoughtfully planned for, it’s the day-to-day moments that truly stand out.
With 60 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, Reata Glen offers something for all residents—walking trails, an aquatics and fitness center, an art studio, a cinema, and even a brand-new indoor golf simulator.
Gary and Lola are regulars at the Wine Tasting Club and enjoy the abundant social, educational, fitness, and travel groups— connecting with other residents who share their interests and are retired in theory but with no plans of slowing down.
“I spend a lot of time on the simulator committee,” Gary shared. “It’s easy to stay busy here and find others who share your interests.”
“I find myself telling friends, ‘I gotta go do this,’ or ‘I have plans with that,’” Lola said. “They tell you when you move in, you’ll stay busy. And that’s what we wanted.”
EXPERIENCE AN AWARDWINNING COMMUNITY
The true luxury of Reata Glen isn’t just the amenities—it’s the freedom. No home maintenance. No yard work. No stress. Just time to enjoy what matters most in a welcoming community.
Reata Glen is proud to continue earning recognition as one of Orange County’s best places to retire.
To celebrate, the community invites guests to stop by and enjoy an exclusive Best of OC Celebration Box—packed with local goodies and special Reata Glen gifts. Available only for a limited time and while supplies last to guests who visit in September or October, it’s Reata Glen’s way of saying thank you.
For more information or to schedule a visit, call 949-696-6481. The team at Reata Glen looks forward to welcoming visitors and sending them home with something special.
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CHIRO SESSION
Consultation,
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combining these proven treatments, we address scalp health, follicle activation, and hair strength.
•
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ALL NIGHT HAPPY HOUR
Tannins
SJC 2:30 – 9 p.m. (see p. 29)
(see p. 36)
Line Dancing Lessons Swallow's
SEPTEMBER 2025
KIDS EAT FREE
Sundried Tomato
Club
NFL KICKOFF
Cowboys vs. Eagles
The Winston's Club
SJC 5:15 p.m. (see pp. 28, 37)
7-8-9 HAPPY HOUR
BarVino DP 3 – 6 p.m. (see p. 33)
Fall Flicks The
HARBOR CRUISE
Bunch of Guys
Dana Wharf
Sportfishing
Brewery
6 p.m. (see p. 34)
DP 8 – 9:30 p.m. (see p. 30)
Julius Caesar Cabrillo Playhouse
7:30 p.m.
Maritime
Cannon Battles The Bluffs DP 3:30 – 8 p.m.
SJC 4:30 – 9 p.m. (see p. 35) SC Open Skate Contest
THURSDAY
FOOTBALL
Dolphins vs. Bills
p.m.
CHRISTIAN LOVE
The Coach House
SJC 8 p.m. (see pp. 28,30)
CULINARY FRIDAYS
Specials by Chef Aron Shorecliffs Golf Club
SJC 5 – 8:30 p.m. (see p. 35)
KAROAKE FRIDAYS
The Point DP 8 p.m. (see p. 34)
Fall Flicks Wicked Sing a Long Crown Valley Park LN 7 p.m.
HOME REMODEL + TECHNOLOGY Q&A
ReelTime
The Point DP 5:15 p.m. (see p. 34) Thursday Night
Sight & Sound SJC 6 – 8 p.m. (see p. 4)
THE NELSONS
The Coach House
SJC 8 p.m. (see pp. 28, 30)
20
GAME NIGHT
Judge Brewery SC 6 p.m. (see p. 34)
Ohana Festival
Kings of Leon/ Eddie Vedder
Doheny State Beach
DP 12 – 10 p.m.
HONK
The Coach House
SJC 8 p.m. (see pp. 28, 30)
FELISHA DUNNE San Juan Hills Golf Club
SJC 6 – 9 p.m.
Surf & Turf Therapy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing high-quality equine and surf therapy for children and adults with disabilities. Founded and led by Dr. Jillian Stewart, the program blends the dynamic benefits of horseback riding and surfing to support physical strength, balance, coordination, and adaptability in a meaningful and motivating setting.
With individualized sessions grounded in clinical care, Surf & Turf serves people with a wide range of diagnoses, including Autism, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, and rare genetic conditions. Each participant works toward specific goals — whether that’s better trunk control, improved tolerance to sensory input, or simply the ability to participate in an activity many others take for granted. The need is high; Surf & Turf currently has a waitlist of over a year, reflecting how few programs like this exist — especially ones led by licensed therapists.
There are several ways to support Surf & Turf Therapy’s mission:
• Volunteer with their dedicated team
• Follow and share @surfandturftherapy on social media
• Attend the upcoming fundraiser: Chukkers for Charity
Chukkers for Charity will take place on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at the OC Polo Club in Silverado. This exciting evening includes live polo, an open bar courtesy of Five Vines Wine Bar and Nolet Spirits, catering by Savory Times, silent and live auctions, live music by the James Kelly Band, and features of Surf & Turf Therapy’s riders and surfers. This event is the primary fundraiser of the year for Surf & Turf and funds raised directly support more participants gaining access to care.
There’s still time to get involved — early bird tickets are available at a discounted rate, and sponsorship opportunities remain open.
Learn more and reserve your spot here: SurfandTurfTherapy.org/events
6TH ANNUAL CHUKKERS FOR CHARITY
September 25 from 5:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Orange County Polo Club 27271 Silverado Canyon Rd, Silverado
2025 FALL SEASON
Starting August 18
Home of Element 5 Dance Company & Repertory Ballet San Clemente
CLASSES OFFERED: 3/4/5 Combo Classes, Ballet, Lyrical, Contemporary, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Tap, Technique & Acro/Tumbling
In 2005, Rick Collins (The Guv’nor), an admirer of fine cigars and single malts, began considering the idea of open ing a cigar lounge and bar. Nearly twenty years later in 2023, Rick traveled to his home city, London UK, to visit the 10 best cigar lounges. He returned with two key ideas. The first is that there is no reason that a cigar lounge and bar cannot have the most amazing client services. The second is that cigar lounges were all stuck in the past — dark interiors, brown furniture and the obligatory Scarface & Clint Eastwood artwork.
Fast forward to June 2025, when Rick and his partner Deb proudly opened Winston’s Cigar Lounge and Sports Bar in San Juan Capistrano. Winston’s offers an elevated experience for cigar afficionados, as well as enjoyers of fine whiskey’s, bourbons, and amazing craft cocktails. Complete with a Wine Club, cigar events, whiskey/tequila tastings, weekend music and enough TVs to show every game, Winston’s expects to become a beloved destination here in South OC.
Winston’s luxurious bar is smoke-free for those who do not partake in cigars. It has the look and feel of a 5-Star Hotel lounge. A large cigar humidor and wine retail center will cater to locals who need to add to their collections with well-priced selections. A large VIP room is available for special events and parties, and a cigar room complete with lockers and creature comforts is dedicated for our VIP member smokers.
Rick and Deb have the passion and drive to ensure Winston’s success for years to come. Winston’s is located in San Juan Capistrano, off the 5 freeway at Ortega Highway (Route 74) near 24 Hour Fitness. Cigar lovers rejoice. Drop by Winston’s and learn how you can become a member of their beautiful new club.
9/3 SHAWN MULLINS 9/5 LOVE WITH JOHNNY ECHOLS 9/6 THE DEVON ALLMAN BLUES SUMMIT 9/7 BENISE (25 YEARS OF PASSION) 9/10 ALBERT LEE
9/11 CHRISTIAN LOVE 9/12 BEATLES VS STONES (A MUSICAL SHOWDOWN) 9/13 PABLO CRUISE 9/18 BOB ANDERSON (TRIBUTE TO FRANK SINATRA) 9/19 THE NELSONS 9/20 BUCKCHERRY 9/25 FOOZ FIGHTERS 9/26 HONK 9/27 WHAT’S NEW PUSSYCAT (TRIBUTE TO TOM JONES) 10/2 SISTER HAZEL 10/3 WAYNE NEWTON 10/4 ORIANTHI
10/5 STEPHEN KELLOGG & JON MCLAUGHLIN 10/10 DESPERADO (THE EAGLES TRIBUTE) 10/11 DESPERADO (THE EAGLES TRIBUTE) 10/12 VALLEY OF TEARS (TRIBUTE TO GILLIAN WELCH & DAVID RAWLINGS)
10/16 BY GEORGE & SLOW HAND: TOGETHER AGAIN FOR THE FIRST TIME 10/17 SPYRO GYRA
10/18 MICK ADAMS & THE STONES 10/19 THE MARTIN SEXTON ABBEY ROAD SHOW 10/23 FIVE FOR FIGHTING WITH STRING QUARTET 10/24 ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK
10/25 JOHN WAITE 10/28 ELVIN BISHOP 10/29 GENITORTURERS 10/30 DEBBY BOONE ‘A SONG FOR YOU’ 10/31 DEAD MAN’S PARTY (OINGO BOINGO TRIBUTE ) 11/1 ULI JON ROTH 11/2 THE HIGHWAYMAN SHOW
11/3 LEONID & FRIENDS 11/5 PETER CINCOTTI (KILLER ON THE KEYS TOUR)
11/6 DOKKEN
11/7 DUSTBOWL REVIVAL 11/8 MICHAEL SWEET: THE VOICE STRYPER (SOLO)
11/9 THE MUSICAL BOX
11/14 COMMON SENSE
11/15 Y&T
11/16 GEOFF TATE’S OPERATION: MINDCRIME (THE FINAL CHAPTER) 11/19 JOHN SPLITHOFF (FAR FROM HERE TOUR)
11/20 THOMAS DOLBY
11/21 KEVIN NEALON 11/22 VILLAGE PEOPLE
11/23 KEIKO MATSUI
11/28 SPACE ODDITY (TRIBUTE TO DAVID BOWIE) 11/29 THE ASSOCIATION
11/30 CANNED HEAT
12/4 ANA POPOVIC
12/5 DAVID BENOIT (CHRISTMAS SHOW)
12/6 RONSTADT REVIVAL
12/7 LOS LOBOS
12/10 THE BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA (CHRISTMAS SHOW)
Christian Love, the son of Beach Boys founding member and lead singer Mike Love, is making waves in the music world with his own distinctive blend of rock and pop music. From the full-length debut album, Only Alibis, to his signature song, "Sum Sum Summer," Christian has a style that appeals to a broad spectrum of listeners. Christian will be making his inaugural solo appearance at the legendary Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on Thursday, September 11.
Christian’s songwriting career took off in 2020 when he co-wrote “Here We Go Again” with Bruce Johnston and other accomplished songwriters. This hit song found a place on The Weeknd’s album, “Dawn FM,” and added another chapter to Christian’s already impressive music career. Following this achievement, Christian decided to embark on a solo project, resulting in the album Only Alibis. The album is a captivating mix of original pop and rock songs.
Following in his father‘s musical footsteps, the singer/songwriter has carved out his own journey as a performer. He grew up going to his dads Beach Boys concerts and that started his true love of music. Christian formed his own band, called Alex’s Cane, as a teenager. He fronted several other bands in the 90’s and opened up for Matchbox 20 and Dave Wakeling of The English Beat. In 2005, Christian joined the touring Beach Boys band. He plays rhythm guitar, sings harmonies and lead vocals on God Only Knows, Good Vibrations, Help Me Rhonda, Sail On Sailor and many more. Last year, Christian began recording new music for his solo album, Only Alibis. The album is available for purchase in both CD and digital formats and via digital streaming services.
For more information, check out his website at ChristianLoveOfficial.org and on Instagram @christianloveofficial.
San Clemente High School’s own Surf Strands will be opening for Christian Love at The Coach House along with Brian D’Entremont. Cash tickets are $20 and $28 online. Don’t miss a great night of music!
BUNCH OF GUYS BAND (Classic Rock)
Fri. Sept 5
Sat. Sept 20
Sat. Oct 4
Executive Directors Jacqui Groseth and Kylie Travis and Casa Romantica Board of Trustees invite you to our 23rd annual gala
EVENT SYNOPSIS
Toast to the Casa is a roaming black tie optional gala with 20+ food and wine vendor stations, different James Bond themed activities and games, and a online auction and live auction This event raises funds for Casa Romantica’s historic preservation and cultural and arts education programs for people of all ages.
DATE & TIME
Saturday, September 13, 2025 | 5:00 - 9:30 pm
LOCATION
Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, CA 92672
Our Federal Tax ID is #33-0944424 T O A S T T O T H E C A S A : C A S A R O Y A L E
Go.CasaRomantica.org/ToastToTheCasa
JAMES BOND IMPERSONATOR “LICENSE TO GIVE” WINE GAME BOND GIRL SINGERS
LUXURIOUS LIVE AUCTION ONLINE SILENT AUCTION
Please call (949) 498-2139 for information about sponsorship or vendor opportunities for Toast to the Casa
The Mission of Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens is to provide cultural programs for all ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities with a special emphasis in celebrating and inspiring the artistic, musical, historical, literary, and horticultural aspects of California We strive to serve our greater community and beyond
The Gatsby Gala
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2025
5PM - 8PM
Join us for an elegant evening featuring a silent auction, savory bites, sweet treats, and libations! Special thanks to Sonance, our sponsor!
Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens is once again rolling out the red carpet for one of San Clemente’s most anticipated annual events. Set for Saturday, September 13, Toast to the Casa: Casa Royale promises an unforgettable night filled with high style, immersive entertainment, and James Bond–inspired surprises.
This year’s dazzling soirée will honor longtime supporters Lou Leto and Sherri Colligan, whose years of generous service and welcoming spirit have become synonymous with the nonprofit’s mission. As President’s Circle members and volunteer greeters, their support touches everything from docent tours to beloved traditions like Christmas Nights at the Casa.
From the moment guests arrive, the experience is designed to impress. A vintage luxury car sets the tone, while Casa’s iconic keyhole door opens to reveal an “elegant champagne girl” lounging in a sparkling champagne bowl. Bond-worthy touches await at every turn: blackjack and craps tables in the art gallery, signature martinis from two full bars, and a James Bond look-alike circulating for photos. Live music will fill the air with sultry Bond classics, while interactive fun—like poker darts, a 360-degree camera, and themed décor—rounds out the evening of mystery and style.
“Casa Royale is more than just a party,” says Kylie Travis, Executive Director of Operations and Programming. “It’s a night of celebration that helps sustain our programming, preserve this historic landmark, and connect the community through the arts.”
Tickets start at $175 through September 1 and include access to entertainment, food, and drinks. Sponsorship and vendor opportunities are also available.
To learn more or purchase tickets, visit CasaRomantica.org or follow @CasaRomanticaSC on social media.
The Assistance League of Capistrano Valley (ALCV) is setting the stage for a dazzling evening of vintage glamour, meaningful giving, and community connection at this year’s Sip & Savor Gatsby Gala, held at the stunning Sonance headquarters in San Clemente.
Taking place Saturday, October 3, the event blends 1920s-inspired elegance with modern generosity. Guests will be transported to a bygone era as they sip fine wines, enjoy gourmet hors d’oeuvres and decadent desserts, and take in jazz-infused music powered by Sonance’s worldclass audio technology. Glamorous photo ops, vintage décor, and the ever-popular Mystery Wine Wall add to the evening’s immersive charm.
More than just a stylish soirée, the Gatsby Gala plays a vital role in supporting ALCV’s many philanthropic programs that benefit children, families, educators, and military personnel across South Orange County. These include:
• Operation School Bell® – New clothing and hygiene kits for students in need
• Hands On Literacy – Reading and math support at local schools, with book distribution
• Igniting Potential – College readiness resources for underserved high school students
• I.N.S.P.I.R.E. & Scholarships – Educational support for single parents and graduating seniors
• Serving Those Who Serve – Essentials for military families at Camp Pendleton
• Links to Learning – Teacher grants and reading resources
• Trauma Togs & Hug-A-Bear – Comfort items for trauma patients and children in crisis
With nearly 50 years of service and more than 22,000 volunteer hours logged last year alone, ALCV continues to make a lasting impact. Events like Sip & Savor help ensure this vital work can continue for years to come.
Tickets, sponsorships, and donation opportunities are available at AssistanceLeague-CapistranoValley.org. Whether attending in person or supporting from afar, guests are invited to be part of a night that proves giving back never goes out of style.
