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.

Driftwood at Doheny State Beach

COUNTRY MUSIC RETURNS TO DOHENY

Driftwood at Doheny State Beach returns Veterans Day weekend with a stellar lineup of artists. Last year’s successful event prompted organizers to expand the music, food and art festival into a two-day affair. Starting Saturday, November 11, a weekend of live entertainment, craft beer, artisan wine and top-notch BBQ will kick-off in scenic Dana Point. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy the sights, sounds and sun at this picturesque venue on the shore of the Pacific Ocean.

Produced by premier music festival production company Synergy Global Entertainment (SGE) and Brew Ha Ha Productions, Driftwood at Doheny State Beach features tastings from more than 100 craft beers and wines, some of the best BBQ in the region, and two full days of Country music with headline performances from Chase Rice on Saturday and Kip Moore Sunday evening.

The event kicks off at 12 p.m. Saturday for early entry guests. General admission begins at 1 p.m., with musical performances until 9 p.m. Festival attendees, 21 and over, will enjoy complimentary adult beverage tastings from 1 to 4 p.m. Tastings are included with the $49 price of admission. VIP tickets, weekend passes and artist Meet & Greets are also available on a limited basis.

A portion of the festival’s proceeds will be donated to the San Onofre Parks Foundation. This nonprofit organization partners with California State Parks to develop, preserve and enhance the recreation and experience of California’s unique and beautiful coastal parks. The Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association (DSBIA), a non-profit dedicated to the protection of the park’s beaches, facilities, marine refuge and its historical, cultural and social stories will also benefit from the the event.

For more information and tickets visit www.DriftwoodFest.com.

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MemorialCare Medical Group

Breaking Ground at Sendero Marketplace

by Veronica Badzey

MemorialCare Medical Group is dedicated to providing the best value in exceptional health care to thousands of patients throughout Orange and Los Angeles Counties. This fall, it will be expanding its reach even further with the opening of of a new facility in the Sendero Marketplace, at the corner of Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway. 

“Our goal,” explains Laurie Sicaeros, Chief Operating Officer of MemorialCare Medical Foundation, “is to be the preferred providers for the families of Rancho Mission Viejo, as well as nearby Ladera Ranch.”

Set to open in Spring of 2019, a two-story, state-of-the-art medical center featuring comprehensive healthcare with an emphasis on wellness and preventative care will be constructed within Rancho Mission Viejo. The 26,000 square foot facility will also provide walk-in services for those who need immediate access to medical care without an appointment. Plans include a staff of six primary care physicians, including family practitioners, pediatricians, and specialists in internal medicine, pulmonology, orthopedics, and asthma/allergy, as well as a full complement of nurses, medical assistants, and front office personnel. In partnership with Saddleback Medical Center, the new location will offer a wide range of specialty services, including: asthma consultations, orthopedic services, cardiac testing, lab services, a breast center, EMT diagnostics, EKG tests, digital X-ray, and ultrasound, making them a one-stop shop for healthcare in the surrounding communities. 

In support of an active, outdoor lifestyle favored by many local residents, MemorialCare will also be partnering with the Ranch Life community association, by holding physician and dietician-led health education classes on a variety of topics such as diet, exercise, and asthma, as well as sponsoring Ranch Life community events.   

The interim location in Sendero Marketplace will be opening November 2017, while construction on the new building gets underway. It will provide many of the same services planned for the permanent location, including the Ranch Life education classes.  With a staff of three primary care physicians, (two family practitioners and one internal medicine specialist), as well as two medical assistants, an LVN, and front office staff, the temporary office will focus on providing well-rounded care, along with walk-in services. Office hours will be extended to six days a week, Monday through Saturday, to meet the needs of the growing community.

Patients at both the interim and permanent locations gain access to the broader MemorialCare network through its interactive EMR (electronic medical records) portal, myChart, powered by Epic Systems software. MyChart streamlines patient records into a one-chart system which is utilized by all MemorialCare hospitals, urgent care facilities and offices, seamlessly integrating communication between doctors and specialists at separate locations. Patients can log in to myChart from any digital device to view their medical history, schedule appointments online, and request prescription refills. If a patient arrives at a MemorialCare location needing emergency services, staff calls ahead to the hospital, apprising them of the situation through the EMR portal.

It’s not only technology that makes MemorialCare exceptional. Over the years, it’s evolved to meet the needs of the community and now serves a combined total of 660,000 annually through multiple locations in Orange and Los Angeles Counties, with 85% of urgent care and walk-in cases transitioning to permanent primary care patients. The high rate of patient retention attests to the quality of care provided by an exemplary staff of compassionate doctors, nurses, and support staff. Many MemorialCare doctors elect to live in the communities in which they work, participating in community events and taking the time to develop meaningful relationships with the patients they serve.

“It’s been truly inspiring,” says Laurie, “to see MemorialCare continue to grow and evolve to meet the needs of the local communities. I’ve been here for 20 years, and I’m continually amazed by our caring and compassionate doctors and staff.”

MemorialCare Medical Group accepts most major insurances, including Medicare. Look for the opening of the interim Sendero Marketplace location next to Gelson’s in November, with extended office hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.  to 2 p.m. 

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Dana Point Oktoberfest

Saturday, October 7th from 12 p.m. until 7 p.m.

Dana Point’s 4th annual Oktoberfest captures the true spirit of the season, combining German food, music and dancing with a bit of fun in the sun. This time-honored folk festival, which originated in Munich in 1810, delivers the Bavarian traditions you’d expect with a California-style twist!

“We’re here to celebrate!” enthuses Master of Ceremonies Peter Melton, or the “Pieter Meister,” as he is affectionately called throughout the event. “Plan to come early and stay late. We always have a rockin’ good time!”

The free, family-friendly event is produced by Eventwerks in conjunction with the City of Dana Point, and has been growing in popularity since its inception three years ago. Last year, thousands attended the festival, partying until the end of the day and drinking up every last bit of tasty German beer. This year, the same tempting array of authentic German Bratwurst, Knockwurst, German potatoes, sauerkraut, sweet treats, pretzels (the Pieter Meister’s favorite), and of course, plenty of beer – including at least 15 varieties of premium German and American brew, plus wine and non-alcoholic beverages for the kids, will be on hand.

Kona Brewing Company, along with Munich’s Famous Spaten Beer, will take center stage as sponsors of the 2017 celebration. Admission to Oktoberfest is free. Your first beer comes in a 16 oz. commemorative mug for $20; refills are $10. Several purchase options are available for those who prefer wine.

It wouldn’t be Oktoberfest without festive music! The Kalifornia Krauts, one of OC’s favorite German bands, will liven things up with a unique Oktoberfest Polka-Billy musical style. Games include musical chairs for the kids, the hilarious and now-famous sausage toss, the ever-popular chicken dance, a sauerkraut eating contest, stein holding, and beer chugging. The festivities also feature sing-a-long songs and a dance party, lending this traditional German folk festival a distinctly American flavor.

“Part of what’s made our Oktoberfest event such a success,” shares Peter, “is how we’ve combined German tradition with good, old American fun. I’ve had people come up to me, even traditional people who’ve been to Oktoberfest celebrations for years, and tell me they prefer ours greatly.”

Sea Terrace Park in Dana Point provides a stunning venue, with gorgeous ocean views of Salt Creek Beach, fresh sea breezes, grassy park areas where the kids can run around and play, and an abundance of picnic tables. For a close-up view of the stage and the Pieter Meister’s crazy brand of German-American fun, arrive early to get the best table. Many attendees come dressed in costume, but if you happen to forget your lederhosen, vendors will be selling gear and souvenirs on-site.

Most of all, come prepared to have a good time. Whether you’re German or American, have attended Oktoberfest every year or if this is your first one, you will find something to enjoy. Starting with the playful opening ceremony and tapping of the keg, the day promises a boisterous good time with family and friends, and hilarity as revelers dance, sing, and toast to the bounty of the harvest season. As the Pieter Meister says, “The dance party at the end, as it’s getting dark, is worth the trip alone!”

Dana Point’s Oktoberfest runs from 12 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 7th. Free parking is available on Niguel Road and Stonehill Drive, and on Pacific Coast Highway along the park. Salt Creek Beach offers parking for a fee, or if you are feeling a little VIP(ish), you can always valet at the Monarch Beach Resort. Uber and Lyft are good options and make sense after a day of taking in Oktoberfest. For more information on parking, visit the website at DanaPointOktoberfest.com.

180blu

a view to DINE for

by Dina Scaglione

Poised on a cliff 150 feet above Salt Creek Beach is one of Orange County’s most stunning views and the picturesque home of 180blu. Aptly named for its unobstructed views of the Pacific, the restaurant’s sprawling, open-air balcony seduces guests the moment they enter and the comfortable ambiance and delectable fare keeps them coming back for more.

Located in The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, 180blu delivers the same five-star service the hotel is known for, in a more relaxed setting than you might expect. With inviting high-top tables and swallow-you-up sofas, it’s the perfect destination for lunch, dinner or drinks, but often a difficult one to leave.

Come for the sushi, small plates and a glass of wine, but your taste buds will beg you to stay and enjoy a plethora of unique and tasty entrées. Comfort foods like grilled cheese on rustic bread offer a sophisticated version of the American classic that was always a childhood favorite.

Even non-sushi fans will fall in love with the namesake 180 Sushi Roll, featuring avocado, cream cheese and cucumber topped with charred salmon. I was personally smitten with the lobster tacos, complete with large chunks of tender lobster, avocado, and black bean salsa, served on small flour tortillas with a delightful de arbol sauce. And don’t miss the bite-size-but-big-in-flavor spicy tuna rolls, on a cylinder of toasted rice and topped with a tangy eel sauce.

Another scrumptious dish worth writing home about is the delicious pan-seared shrimp. Glazed with a blend of Piloncillo, an unrefined Mexican sugar, and a spicy peanut sauce topped with cilantro and candied pepitas. You’ll be amazed by the slightly sweet, slightly spicy, but immensely flavorful taste. If you’re looking for a light dinner with a decadent side, try the warmed spinach salad with loads of sautéed lobster and wisps of crispy sweet potatoes. I capped off the evening with 180blu’s famous churros, served alongside coffee ice cream on a crumbled cookie bed, anchored by a golden trail of caramel. Light and cinnamon-y, it’s the ultimate way to end any meal.

Talented 180blu mixologists serve up hand-crafted cocktails and signature drinks, along with an extensive wine list and a variety of beers. Live music is featured Thursday through Saturday, from 6 to 9 p.m., weather permitting. The sushi bar is also offered Thursday through Saturday, from 6 to 9 p.m. And if you feel chilly, the friendly staff offers cozy blankets to keep you warm and toasty.

180blu  |  One Ritz-Carlton Drive  |  Dana Point  |  RitzCarlton.com

The Vein Clinic at Elite Medizin

ANNE LUHOAN, MD, FACS, ABVLM, RPhS

How do your legs look? How are your legs feeling?  Do you have heavy, achy, itchy or restless legs at the end of the day? Do you see bulging veins across your legs or feet? Have you noticed unsightly spider veins?

If so, you may be one of 80 million Americans who are plagued with varicose veins and may not even realize you have them. Why suffer needlessly when treatment is just around the corner at Dr. Anne Luhan’s office in Dana Point. Her clinical expertise focuses on the full spectrum of treating venous disorders and most procedures are covered by Medicare and major insurance companies.

Many who have experienced varicose veins believe they are simply a cosmetic issue that is more of a nuisance than a genuine medical concern. The fact is that varicose veins are a massively underdiagnosed and undertreated problem that can progress into a more serious medical condition, if not addressed properly. Dr. Luhan is making it her mission to educate patients and the community about varicose veins.

Once a patient learns that they are a candidate for the cutting edge treatments that deliver maximum results with minimal pain, they are elated to finally have a solution to their nagging problem. Dr. Luhan is able to offer patients an in-office procedure requiring no anesthesia, minimal downtime and no scarring.

As a faculty member of national phlebology organizations, Dr. Luhan is always at the forefront of the latest technologies in the treatment of vein problems.

For many patients, receiving treatment is life-altering, enabling them to now lead active, productive lives that were once not possible.

On the cosmetic side, Elite Medizin and Veins is offering the full scope of vein treatments including leg, face and hand veins and uses the latest ultrasound and vein light guided methods to treat spider veins with optimal results.

Dr. Anne Luhan is certified by the American Board of General Surgery, the American Board of Surgical Critical Care as well as by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine. Having passed these prestigious boards shows full commitment to the treatment of venuos disease. With these credentials and expertise, it’s no wonder that Dr. Luhan’s patients put their full trust in her hands.

The Vein Clinic at Elite Medizin
34052 La Plaza, Suite 102
Dana Point
949.388.4800  •  EliteMedizin.com

Orange Coast Women’s Medical Group

A LIFELONG RESOURCE FOR HEALTH

A leader in the field of women’s health, Orange Coast Women’s Medical Group (OCWMG) is consistently at the forefront of providing the highest level of care to its patients.

This OBGYN practice not only demonstrates exceptional service in the field of comprehensive obstetrical and gynecological care, OCWMG also offers onsite bone density screening, diagnostic ultrasounds, screening mammography, phlebotomy, weight and nutrition management, plus pellet therapy for bio-identical hormone replacement. The practice has added specific services directed at the needs of patients such as the MonaLisa Touch for restoring vaginal health, the only FDA approved treatment for the changes associated with menopause. The physicians are also at the forefront of advanced surgical techniques including minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopic surgery to treat the full spectrum of female gynecological conditions. The extent of the menu of services beyond OBGYN care makes OCWMG a very unique practice in the arena of women’s healthcare and wellness.

There are three conveniently accessible locations to serve the residents of South Orange County. These offices are located in Irvine, Laguna Hills, and Talega/San Clemente. The practice’s highly esteemed physicians have dispersed to different locations to meet the needs of their patients in these communities. Doctor’s Angelika Priestley, Norene Norris-Walsh, Mary O’Toole, Ann Marie Raffo, and Elizabeth Johnson have made San Clemente and its surrounding cities a primary focus of their practice. Women may also visit these physicians at their Laguna Hills office.

Visit www.ocwmg.com for physician bios, appointments, healthcare resources, and questions for the advice nurse. OCWMG accepts most insurance plans including PPO plans, POS plans, EPO plans, Medicare, and Tricare. They also accept all HMO plans through Monarch Healthcare and Covered California exchange plans.

Orange Coast Women’s Medical Group
Three convenient locations
San Clemente  •  Laguna Hills  •  Irvine
949.829.5500  •  OCWMG.com