CB CycleBarn®

By Veronica Badzey

CB CycleBarn^® opened its doors five years ago with three sold-out classes, and has since become San Clemente’s ultimate indoor cycling experience. CB CycleBarn^® fosters a true sense of community, (locally known as TheBarn) and welcomes a broad range of clientele from all backgrounds and fitness levels. “I’m proud of our diversity,” says owner Karen Casler. “Anybody can ride here, whether you are a stay-at-home mom, a weekend warrior, or a competitive athlete.”

From the very beginning, Karen was determined to make CB CycleBarn^® a safe space where anybody could come to get a fantastic workout, have fun, and find relief from the overly-scheduled stress of the digital world. More than physical fitness, Karen describes indoor cycling as “CardioTherapy,” with long-lasting benefits that renew the body, mind, and spirit. The high-energy, non-impact cardio workout is ideal for any fitness level. Instructor-guided classes are 45 minutes to an hour long, and include a warm-up, heart-pumping core, and cool-down period. Each participant sets their own level of difficulty by controlling the bike’s flywheel resistance, making for a truly individual experience.

At CB CycleBarn^®, you never have to worry about showing up early to claim a bike, or risk not getting a bike at all. Instead of the first-come, first-serve method found at most indoor cycling gyms, clients at CB CycleBarn^® reserve their bikes prior to each class through an easy-to-use, “Book Your Bike” online portal. The friendly staff works hard to accommodate clients’ varying schedules, with classes available 7-days-a-week, and some starting as early as 5:30 a.m. Complimentary towels, hand weights, and clip-on cycle shoes are available for all classes, as well as a customer favorite — post-workout, oil-infused cold towels. CB CycleBarn^® instructors have free reign over their music selection and volume level, enabling them to customize the classes they teach. For riders that want a more subdued experience, ear plugs are available at the front desk.

The 800-square foot, air conditioned studio has a raised dais, allowing instructors an unobstructed view of the class. Studio walls are adorned with hand–painted graffiti by a local artist, representing how deeply rooted TheBarn is in the community. Once the class gets going, the instructor dims the lights and an infectious energy takes riders to another world.

“People come in to check out,” relates Karen. “For some of them, this is the only free hour to themselves in their busy day.”

Besides the basic CB2 Cycle class, (based on a traditional Spinning^® style class), customers can also choose from the CB2 IQ, a performance-driven option with real time leaderboards; CB2 Rhythm, a dance-inspired bike-party; and CB2 TotalBody, which includes segments of upper body resistance. Participants receive post-workout emails with a daily performance summary, providing details like calories burned, total miles biked, and average/max RPM.

If you’re looking for more than indoor cycling, you’ll find it at CB CycleBarn’s^® newest addition to the family. A second, adjoining studio, opened 18 months ago, now offers PiYO, Barre, Bootcamp, and TRX classes.

With something for everyone, CB CycleBarn^® easily fulfills its promise of “Keeping it Fun.” Deeply committed to providing a high-quality experience for every customer, Karen deliberately keeps her prices as low as possible. “What I care about most is people,” she enthuses, “not how much money I make. I measure success in lives changed.”

Karen lives in San Clemente with her husband Chris, and children Cory, Eileen and Ryan; all of whom have helped make CB CycleBarn^® the success it is today. For a full schedule of classes and fees, visit CBCycleBarn.com. The first five classes for new customers are always FREE!

CHECK OUT OUR BEHIND THE SCENES COVER SHOOT ON YOUTUBE!

CB CycleBarn® |  372 Camino de Estrella  |  San Clemente  |  949.481.5438  |  CBCycleBarn.com

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Fitness 2018

Lean, Mean, Health Machine

Fit Pilates

FIT Pilates invites you to check out one of Orange County’s hottest workouts! Using the Lagree Fitness Method, FIT Pilates is the only licensed studio in San Clemente and Mission Viejo to offer the Megaformer. Providing constant resistance, the Megaformer effectively combines strength, endurance, cardio, balance, core, and flexibility, not only in one session, but in each and every move. In a 50-minute workout, you will shake, you will sweat, and you will quiver, but most importantly, you will get strong, toned, and FIT! Try one of these new client specials: first class $10 or 10 classes for $69 until January 31st. Experience for yourself why celebrities and athletes around the world are addicted and just can’t get enough of Lagree Fitness. Email info@FitPilatesStudioSanClemente.com or visit FitPilatesStudio.com for more info.

1001 Avenida Pico H • San Clemente, CA 92673 • 714.421.2127 • FitPilatesStudio.com

CB CycleBarn®

CB CycleBarn^® offers inspirational instructors, great music, data tracking, a variety of indoor cycling classes, and a staff dedicated to customer care. Classes at TheBarn are fun, safe, and effective non-impact cardio for all ages and fitness levels, including teens and seniors. Signing up is easy and saves time because there’s no waiting to get a bike. TheBarn’s Book Your Bike reservation system allows you to choose your bike in advance and makes every rider feel like a VIP. Pay per class or monthly. The Barn has expanded this past year with a new studio that now offers PiYO (Pilates and Yoga combined), Barre, Bootcamp and TRX classes. As a New Year’s incentive, The Barn is offering five free classes for new customers. Register and check out the class schedule online at CBCycleBarn.com or call 949.481.5438.

372 Camino De Estrella • San Clemente • 949.481.5438 • CBCycleBarn.com

Anytime Fitness

Anytime Fitness in San Juan Capistrano has new owners! Local residents Sandy Ford and Margie Sinner took over the gym on December 1, 2017 and are excited to help members have a fit and healthy 2018. Take advantage of the “Join for a $1” campaign that runs from January 1 to 12, 2018. Anytime Fitness is a boutique gym, offering its members a clean and inviting alternative to “big box” gyms. It has 5000 sq. ft. of excellent training options including TRX, weights, cardio and workout machines, personal training and group classes. As a member, you have your own key and can access the gym 24 hours a day.  Members can also utilize over 3,000 Anytime Fitness Gyms throughout the world. Silver Sneakers are welcome.

31107 Rancho Viejo Rd Suite 5 • San Juan Capistrano • 949.481•2220 • AnytimeFitness.com

Studio A Pilates

Studio A is a space created for and dedicated to mindful movement and wholistic wellness presenting specialized and certified instruction in the arts of Pilates and Yoga. It offers classes in The MELT Method, a self-treatment system to eliminate chronic pain, as well as Barre and Circuit Fitness Training. Clients and students are guided according to their unique and individual strengths and challenges through functional, integrated methods of movement, in order to attain a clear, unified relationship of mind, body and spirit. Studio A gives the option of choosing group class settings, semi-private duet sessions or one-on-one private instruction. Studio A provides an inviting atmosphere with clean lines, calming tones and textures as well as organized, professional surroundings.

24849 Del Prado Ave • Dana Point • 949.218.0233 • StudioPilates.Yoga

Zen Dojos

Serving our community for over 26 years, this studio is one of the most established in the area. Zen Dojos offers something for everyone in the family, including classes and fitness programs for all levels of interest and ages starting at 3-years-old. Featuring Kempo Karate, Women’s Only training, Krav Maga Combat Fitness, and it’s “Heroes in Training” Children’s Get-Fit Program.  Zen Dojos was voted “Best Martial Arts Studio” in San Juan Capistrano in 2012 and Lead Instructor Marco O’Campo was named “Best Coach in San Juan Capistrano” by The Capistrano Dispatch. Instructor Paul Benavidez has been teaching martial arts locally since 1991. January is an ideal time to get started. The studio’s 2 for 1 special offer on all programs (for new students with paid enrollment) ends on January 31st. Call 949.240.6574 for more information.

31888 Del Obispo #C6 • San Juan Capistrano • 949.240.6574 • ZenDojos.com

Jefferson Starship

Live at The Coach House January 26

By Anthony Small

Jefferson Starship lands at the Coach House Concert Hall in San Juan Capistrano on Friday, January 26 to play such iconic hits as “We Built This City,” “Jane,” “White Rabbit” and “Somebody to Love.” Jefferson Starship evolved from Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Jefferson Airplane, and stays true to the spirit of founding member Paul Kantner’s drive to push sonic limits. “It’s always about these special moments where we represent the records with this true freedom to evolve. That’s how we dedicate every show to Paul,” said drummer Donnie Baldwin.

Paul Kantner passed away in early 2016, but his presence is still deeply felt. Guitarist Jude Gold proudly observed, “Paul is the Miles Davis of Psychedelic Rock because he and Miles both pushed established boundaries with extended improvisations and solos, which created such signature songs, sounds and hooks. We have this songbook that a lot of people grew up with and now younger people have been turned on to it. There’s a plethora of emotions because of the history, but it’s also about who we are today and how we’ve grown from who we once were.”

Original lead singer Grace Slick, who retired in the 90’s, encourages and supports Jefferson Starship’s continued flight, even inviting current vocalist Cathy Richardson to sing “Somebody to Love” with Jefferson Airplane when they received their Lifetime Achievement Award from the GRAMMYs in 2016. Richardson is a powerhouse vocalist and guitarist who also had the lead role as Janis Joplin in the Off-Broadway play Love, Janis. Jefferson Starship’s co-founder David Freiberg was also a member of Jefferson Airplane and co-wrote the smash hit “Jane.” This humble guru-like multi-instrumentalist still sings the tune with his signature soaring vocal prowess. When pressed for his philosophy, Freiberg shared, “We have always had a good time, never playing a song exactly the same way twice. Don’t be afraid to go for every unexpected weird solo!”

Fans attending the show can expect a moving experience. Keyboardist Chris Smith shared, “When you’re onstage at the Coach House, you’re almost surrounded by the audience. We can see and feel the crowd, really playing to the mood, exploring and improvising.”

The Coach House
33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano
(949) 496-8930  •  TheCoachHouse.com

Allen Automotive

Celebrating 70 Years in Orange County

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The DISH On Holiday Hangs

Want to chill with Santa this holiday season? We’ve got the DISH on where to find him in South Orange County. Check out these events for some face time with Mr. Claus and his South Pole posse.

BUILDING HOLIDAY MEMORIES
Dana Point’s annual Winter Festival and Tree Lighting returns to La Plaza Park on Saturday, December 2 from noon to 5:30 p.m. This free day of fun features a new Lego Santa’s Village workshop, a craft fair, face painting, a petting zoo, pony rides and cookie decorating. Also new this year is a Mini Express Train that will chug through the event and a Marionettes show. The Tree Lighting ceremony will take place at 5:15 p.m. Please remember to bring an unwrapped, new toy for the OC Spark of Love Toy Drive. The City and Capo Care are also holding a Tree Lighting on Monday, December 5 at Pines Park from 4 to 6 p.m. It’s a family-friendly event with crafts, carolers, cookies, hot chocolate and more!

CAPTAIN SUPER HERO
Join boaters from all around Orange County as they light up the holiday season at the Dana Point Boat Parade on Friday and Saturday, December 8, 9, 15 and 16 at 7:30 p.m. This year’s “Super Hero Holiday” theme will have captains and their crews powering up some incredible decorations. Holiday in the Harbor is expanding this season and will take place prior to all four Boat Parade nights from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. with merchants in Mariner’s Village, Mariner’s Alley and Dana Wharf participating. The celebration features family fun of all kinds, including performances by various characters, holiday crafts, people painting, carolers and visits with Saint Nick. Santa is anxious to hear holiday wishes and is available for photos (bring your camera). Make reservations early at your favorite waterside eatery for a warm and comfy parade viewing spot. Go to DanaPointHarbor.com to learn more.

SEA TO BELIEVE
Come aboard the “Dana Pride” for a free twenty-minute Harbor Boat Ride with Santa and his helpers. On December 2 and 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saint Nick will be on board spreading holiday cheer and taking note of your little one’s holiday wish list. For a recommended $5 donation, the El Camino Real Junior Woman’s Club will happily capture the moment with a keepsake photo. Santa and crew will launch from the Dana Wharf Sportfishing docks. For more information, visit DanaWharf.com.

TOP DOG
On Saturday, December 2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., The Pet Project Foundation is excited to host the 6th Annual Santa Paws event. Start a family tradition and bring your four-legged friend to the El Torito Courtyard in Dana Point Harbor and have a picture taken with Santa for a nominal fee of $15. All proceeds benefit the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter.

BARK YOUR CALENDAR
Join other canines and their companions to sniff and schmooze at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel’s Yappy Howl-iday Celebration on Sunday, December 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The “Big Dog” will be on hand for photos with Fido. In keeping with the resort’s season of giving, guests are asked to bring unopened canned or dry dog food, treats or dog toys to be donated to local animals in need.

RIDE THE WAVE
The Ritz-Carlton is partnering with Surfers Healing to help children with autism through its annual Holiday Surfboard Auction. This year’s auction showcases more than two-dozen boards donated by renowned artists, actors, musicians and surf industry greats. Visit BiddingForGood.com/SurfersHealing through December 31 to place your bid for a great cause.

SANTA DELIVERS
On December 2, San Clemente is the place to be for an action-packed holiday spectacular. The festivities begin with Casa Romantica’s Christmas at the Casa from 5 to 7:30 p.m. featuring letter writing and photos with Mr. Claus, crafts, hot cocoa and cookies, Dickens Carolers and other entertainment. The action continues with Santa’s Village by the Sea at the Community Center from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. for the annual snow hill, holiday games, cookie decorating, visits with Santa and the tree lighting at 8 p.m. From 6 to 10 p.m., Avenida Del Mar hosts Puttin’ on the Glitz, where mom and dad can get a jump on their holiday shopping and the kiddos can take train rides and watch a holiday movie. For more information, visit San-Clemente.org or call 949.429.8797.

ALL IN A DAY’S WORK
You better watch out, you better not pout…Playschool is decking the halls for a morning of holiday cheer and excitement at the Lil’ Elves Workshop. On Friday, December 8, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Santa’s elves are in need of extra special help from your tiny tots to put crafts and games together. Children will sing holiday songs, enjoy special guest appearances from Santa’s helpers, make gifts for family and friends, decorate holiday cookies, and more. The registration fee is $20 per child (ages 3-5) at San-Clemente.org.

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE
San Clemente residents and business owners, it’s time to untangle those lights and get ready for your chance to win prizes in the City’s Winter Wonderland Light Decorating Contest. Go to SCChamber.com for a registration form and return it by December 11 to enter. Judging takes place on December 12 from 5 to 8 p.m.

MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT
Come to Historic Town Center Park on December 2 at 4:15 p.m. to kick off the festivities with music and other live entertainment before the City’s Tree Lighting Celebration at 5:45 p.m. From there, take the family and head over to Los Rios Park, Zoomars, and the downtown area for free photos with Saint Nick, a puppet show, a Christmas train ride, crafts and extended shopping hours. Zoomars is opening the gates to its petting zoo free of charge and will be hosting a live Nativity presentation. Call 949.493.5911 for more information or visit SanJuanChamber.com.

MERRY-ACHIS & MORE
Mission San Juan Capistrano will host Christmas at the Mission on Saturday, December 2 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Bring the family for a fun evening featuring real snow sledding and a play area (don’t forget mittens!). Kids will have a jolly time visiting with Mr. Claus and decorating cookies. Carolers, choirs and chamber music will entertain guests as they enjoy tamales, chili, sweets, cider and cocoa. General admission is $6, $4 for children ages 4 to 11 and free for members. Snow Fun will be extended this year for sledding on Sunday, December 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit MissionSJC.com for more event information.

MERRY & BRIGHT
Laguna Niguel’s City Hall will brighten up the sky at its annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Holiday Celebration on Saturday, December 2 from 5 to 7 p.m. Join in the countdown to powering up the tree while you keep warm and happy with hot chocolate and cookies. Bring your camera and snap a quick pic with Saint Nick.

LIGHT UP THE TOWN
Laguna Niguel residents can get into the spirit by entering the Holiday Lights Decorating Contest before December 4, 2017. Winners in each category receive a Visa gift card and a yard sign with bragging rights! The entry form, rules and information are located in the City’s Winter Recreation Brochure or you may go to CityofLagunaNiguel.org to learn more.

WALK THIS WAY
“Jingle All the Way” is the theme for the City of Laguna Niguel’s annual Holiday Parade taking place on Saturday, December 9 at 10 a.m. This year’s Grand Marshall is Nickelodeon star Kira Kosarin, along with Teen Grand Marshall Trinitee Stokes, from Disney Channel’s KC Undercover. The parade includes beautiful equestrian units, patriotic and inspirational military tributes, world-class athletes, spirit-filled youth groups, classic auto clubs, talented marching bands, and some of the biggest attractions in the nation! To learn more, visit LagunaNiguelParade.com.

A LATKE FUN
A blizzard of holiday fun awaits the whole family as Chabad Laguna Niguel and the City host its Chanukah Wonderland and Menorah Lighting on Sunday, December 17 at 5:30 p.m. The merriment happens at City Hall, with live entertainment, arts and crafts, and traditional Chanukah treats. Go to ChabadLagunaNiguel.com for more information.

Dana Point Harbor Welcomes
A SUPERHERO HOLIDAY
43rd Annual Boat Parade of Lights Dec. 8-16

Enjoy free holiday activities, Santa, superheroes, and more by the water’s edge

(Dana Point, Calif.) – Supervisor Lisa Bartlett, the County of Orange, OC Parks and Dana Point Harbor invite families to celebrate the season with “A Superhero Holiday” at the 43^rd Annual Boat Parade of Lights. Enjoy jolly activities with a superhero twist on select dates December 8-16 by the water’s edge.

The 43^rd Annual Boat Parade of Lights will take place on December 8, 9, 15 and 16 and feature the theme “A Superhero Holiday.” On each evening of the parade, OC Parks will host free family activities throughout Dana Point Harbor including games, crafts, photos and selfies with Santa, superhero encounters and live entertainment. Festivities begin at 4:30 p.m. and the Boat Parade starts at 7:30 p.m.

“Dana Point Harbor will welcome more holiday festivities and entertainment than ever before during the 43^rd Annual Boat Parade,” Orange County Supervisor Lisa Bartlett, Fifth District, said. “Join us for A Superhero Holiday and enjoy free, family-friendly activities that culminate each night with the spectacular Boat Parade.”

The young and the young at heart are encouraged to dress as their favorite superheroes during the Boat Parade. Everyday heroes, including first responders and military, will be collecting unwrapped toy donations for Operation Santa Claus under the corridor of lights at the pergola. Donations will also be accepted at businesses throughout the harbor.

Free trolleys for each night of the Boat Parade will be running from 3:30 to 10:30 p.m. and will be dropping off and picking up along Dana Point Harbor Drive at Doheny State Beach, The Visitor’s Center, Ocean Institute, Baby Beach, Island Way, Retail Area and back to Doheny.

The holiday season kicks off with Merry Movie Night at Baby Beach on Saturday, December 2 and will feature the holiday favorite film, “Elf.” Festive activities begin at 3:30 p.m., movie begins around 5:15 p.m.; event is free and food and drink will be available for purchase.

Sail through the harbor in holiday spirit during Boat Rides with Santa on Saturday, December 2 and Sunday, December 3 from 10 a.m. – 2. p.m; rides launch from Dana Wharf Sportfishing.

Saturday, December 2 also welcomes Santa Paws for festive photos with the furry friends in your life from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the El Torito Courtyard.

Celebrate the holiday season at the spectacular 43rd annual Boat Parade of Lights at Dana Point Harbor. For more information on the evening’s festivities, visit DanaPointHarbor.com.

Monarch Beach Market Gives Back to the Community

Specialty Market Features Gourmet Food, Wines & Craft Beer Options

Monarch Beach, Calif. (November 2017) – When Mosen Hashemi was presented with the opportunity to open a market in Monarch Beach, he jumped at the opportunity. Soon after opened Monarch Beach Market and began serving this community, Hashemi noticed that he regularly received members of our military and local law enforcement agencies. He wanted to show his gratitude and respect for the brave men and women who serve our country and decided to proudly show his support by displaying the flag of every single military branch of the armed forces in the center of the store.

Longtime local and store manager Gilbert Santillan says, “It is important to us here at the Market to show those who serve that we recognize the sacrifices they have made to keep America and citizens safe. Therefore, anyone who served this country will receive 10% off their purchase every time we get to serve them.”

It was also important to Hashemi to show his thanks to the community for their continued business and loyalty. To show his appreciation, the Market continually supports the local educational systems by donating to several of their academic and scholarly programs. These programs include but are not limited to; The Wounded Warrior Project, John S. Malcom Elementary School, and Dana Hills High School football, basketball, tennis, baseball, and SOCSA.

Monarch Beach Market is much more than a traditional grocery store and deli. The upscale coastal-themed market with fine food, wine and craft beer on tap boasts an indoor dining area and an outdoor, dog friendly patio. It is located in the Monarch Beach Promenade shopping center at 24040 Camino del Avion in Dana Point. Open daily from 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., orders can be placed online at www.monarchbeachmarket.com or by calling 949.429.8750. A convenient mobile app is available for orders to be picked up.

About Monarch Beach Promenade

Marked by 35-foot high Canary Island Palms, Monarch Beach Promenade shopping center is on the southeast corner of Niguel Road and Camino del Avion in the community of Monarch Beach. Monarch Beach Monarch is one of the center’s anchors which also includes Brio Tuscany Grille, Dana Kai Japanese Cuisine, Rococo Clothing & Accessories, Lingerie Paradis USA, California Bank & Trust, Dana Cosmo Dental, Daniel Paul Salon, Laguna-Dana Urgent Care, Posh Nails and Sunny Fresh Cleaners. For more information, visit http://monarchbeachpromenade.com on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MonarchBeachPromenade or on Instagram @monarchbeachpromenade.

by Veronica Badzey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

40th Dana Point Turkey Trot

The 40th annual Dana Point Turkey Trot is an Orange County Thanksgiving Day tradition attracting 11,000 participants and 6,000 volunteers and spectators to Dana Point Harbor.  Produced by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce and presented by Monarch Beach Resort, this event includes scenic 5k and 10k courses, a Kids’ 1-Mile Gobble Wobble race, costume contest, on-course entertainment and a two-day Health & Wellness Expo. From world-class competitors to recreational runners and walkers of all ages, the Turkey Trot provides a family-friendly, fun and active start to the holiday season while helping area nonprofit organizations.

The Turkey Trot has chosen Family Assistance Ministries and VFW Post 9934 as the local nonprofit beneficiaries for the event. A portion of each runner’s registration fee will go toward supporting their cause.  Family Assistance Ministries assists those in need in Orange County with resources for food, shelter and personalized supportive counsel and aid. The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 assists fellow veterans and their families with unexpected expenses as well as delivering thousands of pounds of food to Camp Pendleton each week.

Run the Race Before You Stuff Your Face!  Don’t delay, register now and save!  Online registration closes on November 20th at midnight. You may also register onsite at the Health & Wellness Expo on Wednesday, November 22nd and on race day, Thursday, November 23rd. Prices will increase for on-site registration. Visit TurkeyTrot.com for event details, registration and to become a race volunteer.