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December is a month of cheer and holiday gatherings. This past Saturday the Southern Orange County Chapter of the international Surfrider Foundation combined the spirit of giving with community unity at its annual holiday party.

The event featured unbelievable silent auction items donated by local businesses and the connected members of Surfrider. Dustin Meister from Laguna Niguel won a limited edition surfboard to commemorate the winning efforts of the organization to stop the 241-toll road extension into Trestles Beach.

Other silent auction items included a Burton crafted snowboard, a signed Corey Perry jersey donated by the Anaheim Ducks, wine tasting excursions and more. Raffle prizes from skate decks to gift certificates from local restaurants were handed out to supporters.

Thousands of dollars were raised for the efforts of the organization. Volunteers passionately educated the holiday party attendees on the harmful effects of plastics littering our shores and waters. The organization’s philanthropic efforts fuel the many Orange County residents who live and love the ocean lifestyle.

Surfrider Foundation would like to invite you to participate in its “Day Without A Bag,” set to be honored worldwide December 18th. Each year, we use more than six billion plastic bags, and only five percent of that is recycled. The bags that are not recycled become part of our waste stream, where they litter our streets, take up space in the landfill, and threaten marine life.

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The signs of holiday spirit come in many different forms: hot cocoa, candy canes, and little santas and reindeer across the city. One of the most iconic scenes that compliment all these holiday hints is a brightly lit home covered in tiny lights that resemble crystal snowflakes falling on the streets of OC. This year, the city of Mission Viejo welcomes contestants for its 37th annual Home Lighting Contest.

Prizes will be awarded to the top five homes that brighten their neighborhood with the most creative holiday cheer. Winners will receive a beautiful floral centerpiece for their season’s greetings to share with their friends and family. Jingle Bells will be singing in the minds of all who look upon the home with bright smiles

Let your imagination run wild in a flurry of decorations with endless possibilities to deliver your own winter wonderland to southern California. Houses must be decorated and entries must be received by Friday, December 4th. Call 949.830.7066 or visit http://www.mvactivities.com/ to download entry forms for the contest.

Preliminary judging will be December 7th and 8th with final judging commencing on December 9th. The city will provide maps to locations of the winning homes that will be available to residents starting Saturday, December 12th.

You can be the brightest home in the city or just a kid looking for the local North Pole, this is a wonderful opportunity to brighten the hearts of your neighbors of Mission Viejo. 

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This Friday was a sold out night at Saddleback College’s McKinney Theatre as the lights dimmed and the curtain rose. Dancers expressing all forms of the art gathered to perform in the Winter Dance collection directed by Dorothy Anderson Garant.

The first number kicked off the worldly adventure with a colorful enactment of the Beatles Magical Mystery Tour. Tie die shirts and florescent tights decorated the stage in beautiful formations. The smiles on the stage reflected in the bright eyes of the inspired audience.

Each piece carried onlookers through a story of life. A three-part modern dance solo entitled ‘Changing the Sheets’ was a powerful expression of the many sides of love. Kathryn Totheroh passionately performed with creative choreography that glided her across the stage and incorporated the intimacy of a bedroom scene. The music flowed through her with elegance as she executed modern technique with a heart and soul.

Classical ballet found its place in the show with the piece reflecting ‘The Four Seasons.” Choreographer Deidre Cavazzi brought a year’s cycle to life to the Pointe with the graceful melodies of Antonio Vivaldi. The costumes were exquisitely designed and selected to bring the spirit of spring, summer, fall and winter to the brightly lit stage.

The eclectic programming was clear when the audience was pleasantly surprised by a new spin on the timeless story of Alice in Wonderland. This number brought the fairy tale to the streets with hip-hop and jazz influences and choreography by John Nasteff. The soundtrack was a remix of up beat pop songs with a funky twist that fueled the mind with a youthful imagination.
Dance is an art that is created with inspiration. Music and life can be the fire that pushes the art in its movement and evolution. The final dance was a full reflection of the artist who inspired the world. The dancers performing a tap ensemble choreographed by Mindy Millard Copeland, paid tribute to Michael Jackson, the pop icon that touched the hearts of people around the world.

The Winter Dance by the students of Saddleback College was a beautiful success. Everyone in attendance that night left the McKinney Theatre glowing after experiencing the talents of so many passionate artists.

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Orange County has a deep-rooted history of living in the ocean lifestyle. From the surf to the sand this southern California land is devoted to its beaches. The South OC Chapter of the internationally recognized Surfrider Foundation held a beach clean up this past Saturday at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point.

From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. volunteers from around the county showed up to help preserve this popular shore. The smallest of debris were not to be overlooked, as most of the detrimental materials on the beach are small plastics and other non-biodegradable materials.

Despite statewide laws restricting smoking on public beaches, cigarette butts are still a major problem for littering the sands. Many surfers and leisure seekers are saddened by the conditions of their beaches and actively work with Surfrider to protect these precious coastal ecosystems from unnatural clutter.

The mission statement of the foundation describes Surfrider as “a non-profit environmental organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s oceans, waves and beaches for all people, through conservation, activism, research and education (C.A.R.E).”

The Orange County Chapter has faced many battles to save the beaches of Southern California. From toll roads to construction near our childhood beaches, battles with the expansion of the city have presented challenges for Surfrider and its supporters. Its gorilla preservation tactics of beach cleanups and other events, the foundation has found the OC community to be a positive force in preservation of our prized recreation areas.

Come out and meet other ocean lovers in the community at the chapter’s Holiday Party happening Friday December 4th from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Hennessey’s in Dana Point. There will be free admission, live music and silent auction items to support the So Cal Beaches.

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The spirit of giving is right around the corner as the city of Mission Viejo prepares for its 39 Annual Gifts and Goodies Boutique set for November 21st. Just a few days before the first giving holiday of the season, this event ignites resident’s high spirits.
For nearly four decades, this fabulous shopping experience has helped families get a jump-start on their holiday wish lists. Visitors will enjoy thee beautiful craftsmanship of over 75 artisans offering hand-made holiday decorations, ornaments and other specialty items.

Get an early start as doors open at 8 a.m. at the Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center, 24932 Veterans Way. Visitors can rise and shine with a pancake breakfast or barbeque lunch from a full Boutique Food Court menu. This is a wonderful opportunity to spend valuable time with friends and loved ones and get ready for the upcoming jolly holidays.
Admission to the event is free for all to browse, enjoy and share the holiday gifts personally designed by local artists. No matter the weather, rain or shine, the event will continue its long time tradition of early bird shopping.

Come stroll through seven rooms with vendors decorated for the holiday season. The event will last until 5 p.m. November 21st. Don’t miss out on this year’s Gifts and Goodies Boutique in Mission Viejo. It is the perfect beginning to this year’s joyful giving season.

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 “Land of the free, and the home of the brave,” these words are sung to compliment nearly every American tradition. Cities all around the country and the honored government of the United States annually honors its military heroes, past and present, November 11 with Veterans Day, formally referred to as Armistice Day.

The city of Mission Viejo holds its own tradition to celebrate this patriotic day. This year’s observance ceremony will be held at Norman P. Murray Community Center at 2 p.m. It will be followed by a performance of Timeless Melodies: Songs that Inspired a Nation featuring tunes from Yankee Doodle to God Bless America. The concert begins at 3:30 p.m. and costs $5, which is waved for veterans.

Mission Viejo takes support for American troops a step further with its ongoing efforts with its program that adopts Marines, Sailors and their families. There is an array of options for residents to get involved this holiday season and throughout the year.

Thanksgiving is a time for family and celebrating the bonds between those we care about the most. For the men and women in our force this time is especially meaningful. Residents may adopt a single force member or their family by sending them a $50 grocery store gift card to help with their festivities.

The holiday spirit continues with the opportunity to contribute toys and gifts for their families’ homecoming gatherings in December. From the simplest everyday needs of toiletries to small dried snacks, gifts can go a long way for our troops overseas. These are the items and luxuries we may take advantage of, but for our Marines and Sailors they can be the difference between struggling and bringing comfort to their homes away from home. Locations for drop off for boxes can be found on the Mission Viejo website.

The return for any troop is grounds for celebration. The transition can be the happiest moment in recent memory while also taking on challenges of facing lost time with family members. The city of Mission Viejo and its residents can help by donating baby supplies and furniture to ease their relocation off base their houses built on love.

The city has already raised funds through their Support Our Adopted Marines and Sailors program to send entry-level troops to their annual ball this past October and extends their efforts by accepting year round donations.

Any amount of monetary support is also accepted at any time. Checks (made payable to “Mission Viejo Community Foundation) and gift cards can be sent or hand delivered to: City of Mission Viejo, Recreation and Community Services Dept., 200 Civic Center, Mission Viejo, CA 92691. Please include your address to receive a written confirmation of your donation.

For more information on Mission Viejo’s Support Our Adopted Marines and Sailors program please call 949-470-3061. Volunteer opportunities are also available for residents who would like to give the gift of their time and talents to the United States military. The city thanks its residents for their ongoing support and blesses our troops with a strong and united community to return to.

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“Malama” is a Hawaiian word that means to care for and protect. This is the philosophy a local Southern Orange County company lives by as it builds outstanding relationships with inspiring organizations throughout the world. This weekend OluKai Premium Footwear will host its annual warehouse sale to benefit Surf Aid International.

A portion of proceeds from the OluKai event will go to Surf Aid’s efforts to support the people of Padang, Sumatra Indonesia, who were hit by the devastating 7.6 magnitude earthquake in late September. A second quake measuring 6.2 occurred 22 minutes later and a third followed the next morning with the strength of 6.8. OluKai is proud to work with Surf Aid in its contributions to revive the Indonesian people.

OluKai will have an array of in season styles on sale up to 70% off retail prices. This is a great opportunity to stock up on the most comfortable footwear with selections for men women and kids. To learn more about OluKai and to view its fall collections please visit http://olukai.com/. Hinano Clothing, a Tahitian inspired apparel company, will also be showcasing for sale merchandise at the OluKai warehouse sale.

Founded in 2005, OluKai was conceived from a desire for a premium ocean lifestyle brand with a distinctively different point of view and deep values. It is committed to building a unique and better class of products that blends ocean heritage and modern performance. Each year, OluKai donates time, money and resources to its ‘Ohana Giveback Program’s cultural and environmental preservation efforts in Hawaii.

OluKai’s annual warehouse sale will be held at its Southern California offices in Aliso Viejo. It will be open Friday November 6th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday November 7th from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. OluKai is located at 75 Argonaut, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656. Come be a part of the OluKai ‘Ohana and help support Surf Aid International’s philanthropic disaster relief efforts. 

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Pink and purple are two of the most famous partnering colors. October was recognized for pink pride to support Breast Cancer Awareness month. November turns a new chapter in the fight against cancer as it kicks off Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month in America.

Orange County joins the battle with its 2009 Purple Stride Make a Move for the Cure race in Irvine. This unique event will include a bike ride, 10K run and 5K run/walk through William Mason Regional Park on November 14. This scenic trail tailors to participants of all athletic interests and welcomes those with wheelchairs, strollers and pets.

The event will also feature an opportunity drawing, interactive activities for children, special guest speakers and musical entertainment for all ages provided by radio station K-EARTH 101. This fun filled day is a beautiful way to rally for a cause that is so important to the health of thousands of Americans throughout the nation.

Pancreatic Cancer is the 4th leading cause of cancer deaths and is tended to the least in financial support of all the leading cancer killers. Each day approximately 116 people are diagnosed with the disease. It is slightly more common in men than women with the risk of development increasing with age. All proceeds from this family-friendly event will benefit the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

Upon registration, participants will receive an event t-shirt and have the opportunity to create a personal fundraising webpage on the organization’s website. Prizes will be awarded to those who reach various fundraising goals. The event has raised nearly $27,000 to date and looks forward to elevating that number for research, victims and families in need.

Racers can register for the event at http://www.pancan.org. Fees are as followed: bike rider $45, adult 10K $35, child $10 and a child under 3 is free. For those who cannot attend, or wish to sleep for the cause, can still register as a virtual participant for $15. All survivors are welcomed free of charge in honor of their success. Registration ends November 13 so reserve your spot now for this empowering race. Join the cause and crowd in the efforts to “Know it – Fight it – End it!” the catch phrase inspiring supporters to help stop Pancreatic Cancer.

William R. Mason Regional Park is located at 18712 University Drive, Irvine, CA 92612. Check in begins at 8 a.m. the day of the race with an opening ceremony at 9 a.m. For more information please contact Roberta Luna at 714-415-8703.

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From time to time we all dream of traveling the world and tasting the sweet flavor of exploration. Now every Mission Viejo resident is able to travel to lands beyond by way of Coffee Tea And Tulips, a local restaurant featuring a “Daily Menu of Worldly Inspiration.”

This past weekend the Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce was elated to welcome the restaurant to the city with a ribbon cutting ceremony to send its best wishes for the future. Coffee Tea And Tulips celebrated its grand re-opening on Friday, as new owners Lina and Michael Samawi transformed the café into Mission Viejo’s passport to worldly destinations.

The new menu whisks visitors away through the streets of Paris with its savory crepes and continues through Spain, the Middle East and the Mediterranean. The tasty travels even pass through California’s own San Francisco Bay, where chef Michael Samawi draws his culinary inspiration. From the classic sounds of Frank Sinatra, comforting floral décor, and the warming smile of owner Lina Semawi, the senses tingle when you enter this beautifully quaint space.

Coffee, Tea and Tulips is woman-owned, a little green and somewhat organic. Food is its passion and the guests’ experience is everything. Its charm extends with its full gourmet tea menu and special services. Come in and enjoy a simple Afternoon Tea, or make a royal appointment with its offerings of Queen Noor Tea and Queen Victoria Tea time.

Centrally located in Mission Viejo, Coffee Tea And Tulips is one of the few teahouses left in Southern Orange County. The restaurant also offers a full catering service and continuously invites guests to share personal recipes with them to incorporate into the ever evolving selection.

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Signs of Halloween are beginning to emerge throughout the city of Mission Viejo. While pumpkin patches and fall decorations brighten up streets and homes, residents are welcome on Saturday October 24th to enjoy two city events honoring one of the most loved holidays.

The day kicks off from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Saddleback Valley YMCA with its 2nd Annual Fall Festival and Halloween Howl and continues on with the City of Mission Viejo’s Hometown Halloween at the Norman P. Murray Community & Senior Center from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Both events are free fun filled community celebrations that cater to all ages.

The YMCA’s Fall Festival and Halloween Howl offers exciting activities and fantastic prizes for children and adults to build lasting family memories. There will be a petting zoo with fourteen different kinds of animals including sheep, goats, bunnies, chickens, ducks, a potbelly pig, and a pony among other furry friends. Mad Science Magic Shows will be offering demonstrations that stimulate young minds with invention and creativity. Children will also be given the time to make gooey slime with the crew after the show to take home and show their friends.

There will be a costume contest for the youngsters to show off this year’s Halloween fashion. The title of ‘Overall Costume’ will be awarded with two tickets to The Aquarium of the Pacific, followed by the second prize for the most original costume that will receive two tickets to the Bowers Children Museum. For those ghouls and goblins looking to spook this Halloween, a third award will be given to the ‘scariest costume’ and will receive a Build a Bear and backpack. All top three costumes will also receive a season of YMCA Youth Sports or swim lessons with their titles.

The Halloween Howl will also feature activities such as pumpkin bowling, ping-pong toss, and a face-painting artist who will decorate smiles with Halloween masks and glitter tattoos. There will be a photo and art booth for kids to take a picture with a festive background and decorate a fall frame for a keepsake. An inflatable obstacle course and live band will add to the celebration.

The first 500 kids will receive a goodie bag with candy and a gift certificate for a free meal at the new Elephant Bar Restaurant in Laguna Hills. So arrive early to enjoy this year’s wonderful YMCA Fall Festival and Halloween Howl.

After the howl, continue the Halloween haunts at the City of Mission Viejo’s own Hometown Halloween from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Norman P. Murray Community & Senior Center. Youngsters ages 2 to 8, and all other kids at heart, will enjoy this carnival filled with game booths, pint sized haunted house and trick-or-treating.

Other features include the ‘Wacky Witch’n Kitchen,” for those itching to brew up some potions, make-it-and-take-it craft carts, pony rides and a tiny tots costume parade. Ride through the event in style with pony and hay rides available on site.

So start your haunting holiday early with a fun filled day of community events. For more information on the Saddleback Valley YMCA’s 2nd Annual Fall Festival and Halloween Howl please call Elizabeth Bishop at 949-380-3503. For more information on the City of Mission Viejo’s Hometown Halloween call 949-768-0981.