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Mother Theresa. Saint Theresa. Grandma. Mom. After an amazing life of 93 years, my mom recently passed. She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Joseph, age 93, four children and 11 grandchildren. Mom was a servant of her Lord, a devotee to her Catholic Church and parish for 50+ years, and was bestowed an award from Pope Benedict in 2010 for her service and dedication to her faith, the highest award given by the Vatican to a layperson.
As I stood on the altar, eulogizing my mother, I looked out over a church filled with over 500 people who were touched by Mother Theresa. Her impact on our family’s lives will endure for years. My parents’ marriage was a blueprint of pure love and faith. Her years of volunteering inspire me to try to impact others less fortunate. I am the baby of five children, including a handicapped child whom my mom raised for 25 years, 20 years beyond her life expectancy. She survived the most pain a parent can suffer: the loss of a child in 1986. Mom said it was God’s will to place Ellen in our lives, and for Ellen to join Him in Heaven. I take solace knowing Mom is reunited with my sister. I am selfishly wishing for more years with my own father before he joins his eternal love. I love you, Mom, and I thank you for my wonderful life.
Thanks for reading and supporting the advertisers of The Local DISH!
Matthew Vicelja
Kim Lalla
—Matthew Vicelja, Publisher
Veronica Badzey Dina Scaglione
BY: Matt Fukushima
LAGUNA
KITCHEN & BATHS
Check our reviews on
Laguna Hills
At The Orchards, your loved one receives the daily assistance they need to preserve independence, be engaged, and remain active at their own pace. Through meaningful experiences designed to foster connection and purpose, and with dedicated clinical oversight, you can feel confident that their health and overall wellness are thoroughly supported. Here, exceptional care doesn't just enhance their life — it gives you peace of mind.
• A team that provides compassionate & attentive care with a focus on overall wellness.
• Daily support with personal routines & fully coordinated medication management.
• Delicious & heart-healthy chef-prepared dining.
• Beautiful residences thoughtfully designed for comfort and privacy.
• Numerous life enrichment activities to foster a bountiful life.
• Continuity of care within one trusted community.
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
THREE LOCATIONS!
ed bonus, earned IMDb credit to launch their film careers.
Bringing the Magic to School
Not every family can make it to a dedicated theater campus, so AA4K is coming to them. Through after-school musical partnerships, AA4K is a full-service provider of theatre programs at public schools, Charter Schools, private schools and home school co-ops. These programs give students a complete musical theater experience right in their own school community, removing barriers and bringing arts education to more kids than ever.
Competing on the Big Stage: Junior Theater Festival
ACTING ACADEMY
If you have a child with a flair for the dramatic, a love of music, or a dream of seeing themselves on the big screen, the Z Playhouse, home of Acting Academy for Kids & Teens in Mission Viejo, might be exactly what your family has been looking for. Founded with a passion for youth arts education, the Acting Academy for Kids (AA4K) has evolved into a thriving hub for young performers. With new programs in everything from musical theater to filmmaking, local directors and founders, Stephen & Maggie Zygo, are building something special for the next generation of artists.
Weeklong summer camps are an Orange County tradition, and AA4K’s start on June 8 at the Z Playhouse in Mission Viejo, the Lyceum Village in Irvine/Tustin, and for the second year, the scenic Newport Theatre Arts Center overlooking Newport Harbor. The Newport Beach location has two adjacent parks so kids get to run and play outside, too. This year, campers will sing and dance to junior arrangements inspired by K-Pop Demon Hunters, Wicked 1 and 2, Harry Potter, and Tangled, the beloved fairy tale musical that is getting a live action movie next summer. Spots fill up quickly, so register early.
High school teens can join the once weekly summer production of Mamma Mia! This program meets one day a week and performs for family and friends at the end of the summer.
Year-Round Programs
During the academic year, the Z Playhouse in Mission Viejo shifts to a trimester-style schedule with three full-scale teen musicals each year.
For students 7-14 ready to take their skills to the next level, AA4K participates in the Junior Theater Festival (JTF) in Sacramento, one of the most prestigious youth musical theater competitions in the country. This year, over 4,000 kids from across the region performed 15-minute musical excerpts, judged by three industry professionals who evaluated choreography, performance quality, and overall execution. This year, the AA4K team came home with a Best Choreography award, a testament to the quality of instruction and the dedication of its young performers. There are also master classes, educator workshops, and detailed feedback from adjudicators, making the festival as much a learning experience as a competition.
And, Scene!
Main Stage Musical performers ages 5-14 will keep their quarterly schedule, and both kids and teens have after-school programs year-round.
Safety You Can Count On
For parents, knowing their children are in safe, capable hands is non-negotiable. AA4K takes this seriously: all staff members are CPR/First Aid-certified and have passed thorough background checks. It’s the kind of peace of mind that lets kids focus on performing, and lets parents relax in the audience.
Lights, Camera, Action:
Film Programs Come to Life
Stage acting isn’t the only avenue for young talent at AA4K. The organization has expanded into film-acting education into AA4K Studios, a distinct discipline from traditional theater, giving kids the chance to explore the nuances of performing on camera. Last year, numerous kids starred in a short film that screened at the Regal Theater in Laguna Niguel and as an add-
Whether your child dreams of performing on Broadway, starring in a film, or simply discovering a love of storytelling, Acting Academy for Kids offers a nurturing, professional, and fun environment to grow. With programs for all ages and skill levels, and a team that genuinely cares about every child’s experience, it’s one of Orange County’s most exciting destinations for young artists.
For more information or to register for summer programming, visit ActingAcademyForKids.com
Keep your kids curious, challenged, and connected this summer. Fairmont’s award-winning summer programs offer a full line-up of educational programming. CAMP (Preschool-8th Grade): High energy ACA-accredited camp experience combining education, recreation, and field trips keeps kids engaged all summer long! SUMMER SCHOOL (Kindergarten-8th Grade): reading, writing, and math taught by Fairmont teachers and individualized to meet students where they are so they can get ahead or stay ahead when school starts this fall. HIGH SCHOOL: Wide range of for-credit UC-approved courses for high school students.
JUNE 8 - AUGUST 7
JUNE 15 - JULY 16
JUNE 15 - JULY 23
CAMPS
ACTING ACADEMY FOR KIDS & TEENS
Acting Academy for Kids’ Performing Arts Camp offers three OC locations, including Z Playhouse in Mission Viejo, Lyceum Village in Irvine/Tustin and a new Newport Beach site at the Newport Theatre Arts Center. Daily classes in music, acting and dance immerse kids ages 5–14 in a true performing arts experience. Each weeklong camp, led by professional educators, ends in a student production with sets, costumes and lighting. Ten sessions run June 8 to August 14. Core camp rate is $425 per week, with discounts available. ActingAcademyForKids.com (see p. 10)
CREATE A MAKER
Powered by Brain Builders
Does your child always want to take the lead on building? At Create A Maker, we let them take the driver's seat! Students will get to build hands-on projects using LEGO bricks and use technology such as 3D printers and laser cutters. Get ready for an exciting summer starting the week of June 8 at Create a Maker, Laguna Niguel. Live in central and North OC? Check out our Brain Builders center in Tustin! Find more details at BrainBuildersEd.org and use code “DISH26” for 5% off camps. (see p. 15)
CAMP JAMES
Located near the scenic Back Bay at Newport Dunes, Camp James has been an Orange County tradition for more than 35 years and was named “Best Day Camp” by Parenting OC Magazine for seven consecutive years. Ages 5–17 enjoy activities like archery, paddleboarding, STEM, watersports, drama, climbing wall, mini golf, laser tag, dance, martial arts, yoga and crafts. Known for its caring staff, theme weeks and special events, Camp James is ACA-accredited and parent-approved. CampJames.com (see p. 13)
DANA POINT YACHT CLUB
A landmark in the harbor since 1952, Dana Point Yacht Club blends rich maritime tradition with a modern commitment to accessible sailing. Its Junior Sailing Program runs June 8 to August 7, offering week-long camps for ages 6-16. Led by highly qualified coaches, the program focuses on safety, confidence-building, and skill development—while keeping the experience fun and inspiring. From first-time sailors to seasoned racers, DPYC delivers an unforgettable summer on the water. It is filling up quickly, reserve your spot for a fun summer! (see p. 15)
This year LRRS is offering seven amazing summer rock camp weeks! Camps run Monday-Friday 9:30am to 12pm with a live performance on our pro stage the last day of camp. Check the dates below and feel free to sign up now! Ages 6 to 17!
DANMAN'S
Point Music
Celebrating 27 years, Danman’s Dana Point Music offers five weeks of summer camps starting June 15. Campers form a band, create a setlist and perform a live show by week’s end. Along the way, they design a band poster, complete a photoshoot and rehearse with professional instructors in guitar, piano, drums, bass and vocals. Camps are $350 per week and include snacks and drinks. Register by May 1 or present this ad for $25 off (plus multi-camp discounts). Danmans.com 949.496.6556 (see p.15)
CITY OF DANA POINT
Summer Camps
Discover an unforgettable summer in Dana Point! The City of Dana Point Community Services Department offers an exciting lineup of summer camps for ages 5–17. Choose from musical theater, basketball, sailing, SUP, robotics, tennis, pickleball, cooking, animation, chess, science, arts and crafts, cartooning, anime and more. Registration is now open, and early-bird discounts are available through May 6. bit.ly/DPRecreation (see p. 18)
FAIRMONT SCHOOLS
Fairmont’s award-winning summer programs keep kids curious, challenged and connected, with locations in San Juan Capistrano, Anaheim, Anaheim Hills and North Tustin. Camp programs for preschool through eighth grade offer an ACA-accredited experience combining recreation, academics and field trips. Summer School for kindergarten through eighth grade focuses on reading, writing and math, taught by Fairmont teachers and tailored to each student. High school students can choose from a wide range of UC-approved, WASC-accredited courses offered in person and online. FairmontSummerPrograms.com | 714.234.2757 (see p. 11)
IVY GATE FARM
Summer Camp at Ivy Gate Farm offers a fun, safe and educational experience for riders of all levels. Led by experienced instructors with more than 20 years of horsemanship experience, campers learn the fundamentals of riding and horse care while building confidence and responsibility in a positive, encouraging environment. Kids enjoy hands-on time with horses, develop their skills in the saddle and gain a deeper connection to these incredible animals—all guided by a passionate team dedicated to making each day meaningful and memorable. (see p. 14)
HALF DAY
9am–12pm
Summer Sailing Camps
Marco the 6-year-old Shredder!
KG BEACH CAMPS
A Dana Point Harbor tradition since 1987, KG Beach Camps offers fun, ageappropriate programs for children ages 4–13 at the OC Sailing & Event Center. Camp options include Mini Minnows, Beach Safari and H2O Adventures, with activities like tidepool trips, paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking, whale watching, beach games and crafts. Camps run June 15 to August 7 and fill quickly, so register early. KGBeachCamps.com | 949.842.5211 (see p. 17)
LIL' KICKERS
What do puppies, sharks, aliens and soccer have in common? Lil’ Kickers! This child development program is packed with creativity, high-energy activities and fun. The summer program features the award-winning Lil’ Kickers curriculum, multi-sport games and science and crafts. Led by professional teachers and coaches, each session is designed to provide a safe, supportive environment. Lil’ Kickers South OC offers flexible half-day programs, with options to attend one to five days per week, plus multi-day discounts. LilKickersSouthOC.com (see p. 14)
LOS RIOS ROCK SCHOOL
Beginner and intermediate rock camps at Los Rios Rock School in San Juan Capistrano offer a hands-on music experience for ages 6–17. With seven full-week camps, students receive live music training from top-tier instructors. The week concludes with a live concert, where campers perform on a professional stage for family and friends. Camps run Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m.–noon, with tuition at $425 per week. A multi-camper discount is available. Spots fill quickly, so visit LosRiosRockSchool.com/SummerCamps to register. 949.456.1081 x700 Schedule@LosRiosRockSchool.com (see p. 12)
THE PERFORMER’S ACADEMY
The Performer’s Academy offers an engaging summer experience for young performers looking to take their musical theater skills to the next level. Summer camps provide training in singing, dancing and acting, led by expert instructors who help build confidence and ability. Students work on scenes and songs from popular musicals, culminating in a final showcase for family and friends. Camps also include social activities, creating a fun and supportive environment where students can build friendships and lasting memories. Sessions run June 8 to August 10. (see p. 13)
SAN CLEMENTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
San Clemente Christian School’s summer camp keeps young minds active with engaging, themed weekly sessions. Running June through August from 9 a.m.–2 p.m., the program is designed for TK (age 4) through third grade and blends academics, STEAM activities, sports, water fun, arts and crafts and chapel. In a welcoming, hands-on environment, children build friendships, grow in faith and gain confidence for the upcoming school year. All families are welcome. SanClementeChristianSchool.com/summer | 949.496.3513 (see p. 18)
SAN CLEMENTE DANCE
Voted back-to-back No. 1 dance studio in San Clemente, San Clemente Dance & Performing Arts Center celebrates its 31st summer of camps and workshops. Programs are offered for all levels, ages 3 to adult, including weekly sessions, once-a-week classes and weeklong camps. Young dancers ages 4–11 enjoy camps with arts and crafts, games and more, while intensives for beginning through advanced dancers feature hip-hop, jazz, ballet, tap, musical theater and tumbling. Auditions for the nationally ranked competition company, Element 5, will be held in June. SanClementeDance.com | 949.498.7571 (see p. 14)
SAN JUAN HILLS GOLF CLUB
San Juan Hills Golf Club offers another summer of junior golf camps led by Alika Chow and James Skahill, PGA. Designed for ages 7–12, camps feature a low 6:1 student-toinstructor ratio and focus on personalized instruction. Sessions run for seven weeks beginning June 8, Mondaythrough Thursday from 8:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. (excluding the Fourth of July week). Each day is thoughtfully structured to help young golfers build skills and confidence, with light snacks and beverages provided. Camps are $400. SanJuanHillsGolf.com (see p. 18)
WESTWIND SAILING
Westwind Sailing has offered educational boating programs since 1987, with sailing and paddling camps, adaptive sailing and classes for all ages and skill levels. Youth camps are available during spring break and throughout the summer. Recognized by the Dana Point Times Reader Recommends as “Best Camp for Kids,” “Best Kids Classes” and “Best Harbor Rec,” and named the city’s 2024 Business of the Year, Westwind is a U.S. Sailing Community Sailing Center and STEM hub. Located at the OC Sailing & Event Center in Dana Point Harbor. 949.492.3035 (see p. 13)
WILD RIVERS WATERPARK
Registration is now open for the 2026 Wild Rivers Junior Lifeguard Camp. This one-week camp for ages 6–12 combines fun and learning as campers build water safety skills, basic first aid knowledge, teamwork and confidence in a supportive environment. Campers also enjoy daily time on Wild Rivers’ water slides. Spots are limited and fill quickly. Registration closes 72 hours before camp begins, with no sign-ups accepted after noon on the Friday before each session. A full-day option is available, with pickup at 3:30 or 5 p.m. Use promo code LD50 for a special Local DISH offer, valid through May 1. (see p. 17)
June
–
8:30 - 8:45am: Check In 8:45 - 9am: Stretch
9
10
TOM BAGLEY’S DUELING PIANOS
The
STRANGLE HOLD
Doobie
E-Waste & Shredding Event
WINEHOUSE EXPERIENCE
Amy Winehouse Tribute
The Coach House SJC 8 p.m. (see p. 34) DJ & Karaoke
CALIFORNIA
POUL PEDERSEN
– 9:30
Q: My teen seems more withdrawn lately and doesn’t open up to me. Should I be worried?
A: It’s understandable to feel concerned. Many teens pull back at times as they figure out who they are, but when a shift feels noticeable, it’s worth paying attention to.
Withdrawal can sometimes be a sign your teen is feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsure how to express what’s going on inside. Even if they aren’t talking, it doesn’t mean they don’t need support.
Instead of pushing for answers, try creating small moments of connection. This might look like sitting with them, asking gentle questions, or simply letting them know you’re there without pressure. Teens are more likely to open up when they feel safe and not judged.
If the distance continues or you’re noticing changes in mood, irritability, sleep, or behavior, therapy can provide a space where they feel more comfortable opening up and learning how to manage what they’re feeling.
Dick Arons, founder, 1951
Consultation,
Consultation,
Consultation,
One
Consultation,
One
EXPERT JEWELRY REPAIR, CUSTOM DESIGNS
PALOMA MEDICAL GROUP
EXPANDING CARE FOR OUR COMMUNITY
You’re not alone and Paloma Medical Group is here to help. We’ll be welcoming several new Primary Care Physicians in the next couple months. With a strong reputation for compassionate, patient-centered care, the practice is expanding to meet growing demand. Four new primary care physicians will be joining the team in the coming months, bringing even more access to high-quality care in the Laguna Hills area.
While details are still being finalized, one thing remains the same: a commitment to thoughtful, personalized medicine and building lasting relationships with every patient.
DR. HALEH KHOSHREZA: A Trusted Partner in Your Health
She continues to make a meaningful impact at Paloma Medical Group through thoughtful, personalized care and lasting patient relationships. As a dedicated primary care physician and family practitioner, she combines clinical expertise with genuine compassion. Her approach is rooted in partnership—listening, educating and empowering patients to take an active role in their wellbeing, whether managing a chronic condition, navigating a new diagnosis or transitioning from hospital to home. Offering same-day appointments.
CONCIERGE PHYSICIANS: Care That Puts You First
Paloma Medical Group’s concierge physicians offer a more personalized approach to care, with extended visits, enhanced availability and a deeper focus on each patient’s unique health goals. This model allows for stronger relationships, proactive care and a level of attention that goes beyond the traditional office visit.
With an emphasis on prevention, continuity and accessibility, concierge care provides peace of mind knowing your physician is there when it matters most. For more information, contact Drs. Ahearn and Fang at 949-750-0590 or Dr. Dindot at 949-324-8185.
As the community continues to grow, so does the Paloma team, ensuring that more individuals and families have access to compassionate providers who prioritize prevention, continuity of care and whole-person wellness.
Tina Ghibu, DMD
Patricia Ahearn, MD
Susan Dindot, MD, MSHI Yu-Hua Fang, MD, MPH
OUTDOOR LIGHTING PERSPECTIVES
Laura the Lighting Lady
Outdoor lighting now plays a central role in how homeowners design and use their backyards. With the right lighting plan, patios, outdoor kitchens and garden spaces remain practical and inviting long after daylight fades. Beyond simple visibility, well-designed lighting adds atmosphere, enhances safety and helps outdoor areas feel like a natural continuation of the home.
Orange County–based outdoor lighting designer and licensed C7 low-voltage electrician Laura Bradburn approaches each project with the belief that lighting sets the tone for how a space functions after dark. Collaborating with builders and landscape designers, she creates lighting plans that allow homeowners to enjoy their outdoor spaces with confidence and comfort in the evening hours.
Bradburn evaluates every project through three key priorities: safety, usability and visual appeal. Proper illumination of walkways, steps and pool areas helps reduce
hazards, while perimeter lighting contributes to a greater sense of security. Task lighting ensures outdoor kitchens, dining areas and gathering spaces remain functional at night. Thoughtful accent lighting completes the picture, highlighting landscaping and architectural features so the yard looks just as appealing from inside the home as it does outdoors.
Homeowners are also rethinking how lighting supports the way they entertain and relax. Bistro-style lighting adds warmth to seating areas, while specialized lighting allows recreational spaces to be used well into the evening. Permanent roofline lighting has also grown in popularity, offering customizable color options for holidays and special occasions.
In her designs, Bradburn prioritizes longlasting materials, often selecting brass fixtures with lifetime warranties. She relies on layered lighting techniques and warm color temperatures to avoid harsh glare and create a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere.
ing property value or improving
carefully planned lighting design
turn a
yard into a true living space that works just as well at night as it does during the day.
CALIFONIA WINE FESTIVAL
Wine lovers and food enthusiasts will have plenty to savor when the California Wine Festival returns to Dana Point April 24–25, launching its 2026 season with a weekend of coastal tastings, culinary bites and live entertainment.
The popular event unfolds at the oceanfront Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa and the palm-lined lawns of Sea Terrace Park, creating a relaxed Southern California setting for two days celebrating the state’s acclaimed wine and food culture.
Festivities begin Friday evening with the Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting on the Del Mar Lawn at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. Guests are welcomed with a sparkling wine reception before sampling limitedproduction and reserve wines from notable producers including Aperture Cellars, Bouchaine Vineyards, Cuvaison, Rombauer Vineyards and Trefethen Family Vineyards. The evening pairs these exceptional wines with gourmet hors d’oeuvres while offering guests the chance to meet winemakers and learn more about the stories behind the bottles. A silent auction featuring rare wines and exclusive tasting experiences will benefit the Sandy Feet Initiative, which supports siblings of children with special needs through beach-based programs.
Saturday afternoon continues the celebration at Sea Terrace Park, where white tasting tents dot the grassy park for an afternoon of wine, food and music. Guests can sample hundreds of wines alongside craft brews and artisan foods from regional restaurants and specialty purveyors.
Participating culinary partners include Glasspar, Bluewater Grill, BeachFire Bar & Grill, Trevor’s at the Track and Brio Tuscany Grille, serving sample-sized bites designed to pair with wines from California producers such as Alma Rosa Winery, Bernardus Winery, Goldschmidt Vineyards and Navarro Vineyards.
Live music adds to the festive atmosphere as guests sip, sample and celebrate California’s vibrant wine culture under sunny coastal skies.
The 21-and-over event includes all wine and food tastings, live entertainment and a commemorative wine glass. For tickets and event details, visit CaliforniaWineFestival.com
4/2 SPONGE 4/3 DOOBIE DOUBLES
4/4 WANTED (THE B
T
) 4/8 TOM BAGLEY’S DUELING PIANOS FT. M ISSY A LCAZAR 4/9 HERMAN’S HERMITS
4/10 HERMAN’S HERMITS
4/8 TOM BAGLEY’S DUELING PIANOS
4/17 THE WINEHOUSE EXPERIENCE
4/2 SPONGE 4/4 WANTED 4/25 HIGHWAYMAN SHOW 4/23 RHINO BUCKET
4/11 ULI JON ROTH: PICTURES OF DESTINY 4/17 WINEHOUSE EXPERIENCE (A MY W INEHOUSE T RIBUTE ) 4/18 YYNOT (TRIBUTE TO RUSH) 4/23 RHINO BUCKET 4/24 CHAMBER NIGHT AT THE COACH HOUSE FT. BLONDE AMBITION (TRIBUTE TO MADONNA) 4/25 THE HIGHWAYMAN SHOW 4/26 SHEMEKIA COPELAND
4/30 LANDON MCNAMARA
5/1 TURN THE PAGE (TRIBUTE TO BOB SEGER)
5/2 GARY PUCKETT & THE UNION GAP
5/3 JIM MESSINA
5/7 ERIC JOHNSON
5/8 MISSING PERSONS
5/9 THE ENGLISH BEAT
5/10 BRANDY CLARK
5/12 VINCEN GARCIA
5/13 TOM BAGLEY’S DUELING PIANOS
5/14 THE KINGSTON TRIO
5/15 FAN HALEN (VAN HALEN TRIBUTE)
5/16 IN THE AIR TONIGHT (TRIBUTE TO PHIL COLLINS & GENESIS)
5/21 PAM TILLIS
5/22 COLDPLAY USA & THE U2 EXPERIENCE
5/23 THE ENGLISH BEAT
5/24 JERRY’S MIDDLE FINGER (TRIBUTE TO THE JERRY GARCIA BAND)