Talega Life - February 2017

FEBRUARY 2017

COVER PHOTO BY KATIE MORROW PHOTOGRAPHY

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Meet the

Aelligs PLUS:

Valentine’s Day Tips Cub Scout Pack 112 Pays it Forward Traffic Relief Study Moving Ahead

WWW.BESTVERSIONMEDIA.COM

2  TALEGA LIFE

Expert Contributors Attorney: Susan Dallas Hattan, Esq As an attorney specializing in estate planning and financial education, Susie Hattan’s mission is to help families achieve peace of mind through financial independence and protection of their hard-earned assets. A mother of three children and an active member of the community, Susie and her husband feel blessed to have lived in Talega for 12 years.

Plastic Surgery: Dr. Kyle Song A board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in aesthetic surgery for the face, body and breasts, Dr. Song opened his practice in Irvine in 2012.

Whether your goal is to look younger, or feel more beautiful and confident, Dr. Song has the artistic vision, thoughtful touch, and surgical talent to deliver the highest level of care. He and his wife, Sara, live in Talega with their two young children.

Toll Roads: Michael A. Kraman With over 30 years experience in major civil and transportation infrastructure projects, Mike is the CEO for the Transportation Corridor Agencies. TCA operates a 51-mile toll road network in Orange County. He is a graduate of the Coast Guard Academy, with a BS in civil engineering and holds an MS in civil engineering from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. Mike is a registered professional engineer in California and numerous other states.

Retail: Paul Durant A local legend in the surf, skate and snowboard industry, Paul rode as a professional snowboarder for Sims, coached the USASA Junior National snowboard team for the 1988 Olympics, and served as head of product development for Vans. Now his expertise is here in Talega as co-owner of SoCal Surf Shop with his wife, Elizabeth. His aim is to promote surf sports and family values while enjoying being the local “coach” for kids and adults in San Clemente.

Financial Advisor: Colin P Smith, CFP® A financial advisor for Edward Jones, Colin has relocated his practice to San Clemente. He is focused on serving individual investors, just like you. Colin began his career with Edward Jones in 2007 as a financial advisor and is now a limited partner in the firm. Colin and his wife Brooke recently purchased a home in the community of Talega. They identified our community as the ideal environment to raise their young family.

Orthodontics: Dr. Taylor Olsen Dr. Olsen completed both his undergraduate degree and dental school at UCLA, then studied orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics at University of Washington. He is Board Certified in Orthodontics. He has practices in San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano. Dr. Olsen and his family have enjoyed living in Talega since 2008. Olsen Orthodontics offers the highest quality orthodontics, a fun atmosphere and fair fees.

Real Estate: Doug Echelberger A lifelong resident of San Clemente, Doug’s contributions in the San Clemente real estate industry span nearly four decades. He is ranked in the top 1% of agents in Orange County, the premier agent in Talega since 2001 and the leading agent of San Clemente’s #1 real estate team – the Echelberger Group.

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FEBRUARY 2017 3

Dear Readers, February might be the shortest month of the year, but there are plenty of opportunities to keep busy. The first festival of 2017 arrives with the Laguna Beach Music Festival. Not long after, The Festival of Whales arrives the first weekend of March. Valentine’s Day is also coming; whether you choose to celebrate a loved one with a special dinner out or make it a family affair by making homemade cards with the kids, there is no shortage of fun ways to celebrate. And one more reason to love February? It is one month closer to Spring!

When we interview families, we always ask what they like about living here. Just about everyone mentions the weather, the beaches and the Talega community, which has so much to offer. This month, the Aellig family is the perfect one to celebrate the “month of love”. Lee and Jancee were married in 1994 and have gotten re-married every year for the past 22 years, each time in a new place, usually another country. Top that one, lovebugs!

We are always looking for new families to feature, or interesting stories about our community. Have a great recipe? Email it to Joanna and we’d love to print it. Want to start a book club? Let us post it on our community bulletin board. Have a blog with great tips or insights? Let us share it. This magazine is about you and for you. Let us know how to make it even better!

JANUARY 2017 PUBLICATION TEAM PUBLISHER | Lani Wilson CONTENT COORDINATOR | Joanna Larson DESIGNER | Lindsy Hemmersbach COVER STORY | Sarah Stokes CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER | Katie Morrow Photography

ADVERTISING FOR INFORMATION REGARDING ADVERTISING IN THIS PUBLICATION, CONTACT: Lani Wilson – Phone: (310) 560-6525 Email: lwilson@bestversionmedia.com COMMUNITY SUBMISSION INFORMATION Are you part of a local organization? Contact us for information on how you can submit articles, updates, reminders, events and more to reach the residents of Talega.

FEEDBACK/IDEAS/SUBMISSIONS Do you have feedback, ideas, or submissions?

We are always happy to hear from you!

Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas, and photos

Looking forward to hearing from you.

to jlarson@bestversionmedia.com. Articles submitted for consideration should be less than 400 words, must be formatted in Arial 12-point font,

Lani

single-spaced and should not include any special formatting. We reserve the right to edit as necessary and cannot guarantee publication.

SUBMISSION DEADLINES

Lani Wilson Publisher lwilson@bestversionmedia.com

Joanna Larson Content Coordinator jlarson@bestversionmedia.com

The deadline for content is the 5th of the month for publication the following month. If the 5th falls on a Saturday or Sunday, we will need to receive your submission the preceding Friday.

Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2017 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

4 TALEGA LIFE

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State Farm® offers life insurance that allows flexibility to protect your family’s finances, not only in the future but today! We are happy to assist you so you can strive for a more secure future with life insurance that suits your needs.

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800Lic#: E Avenida Pico Insurance : 0588346 San Clemente, 800 E Avenida PicoCA 92673 Bus: 949-492-5900 San Clemente, CA 92673 949-492-5900 • chris@chrisdolkas.com www.chrisdolkas.com Chris Dolkas, ChrisAgent Dolkas, Agent Insurance Lic#: 0588346 Lic#: 0588346 800 E Insurance Avenida ChrisPico Dolkas, Agent San Clemente,800 CA E 92673 Avenida Pico Insurance Lic#: 0588346 Bus: 949-492-5900 ®

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FEBRUARY 2017 5

Tax Strategies

Decisions you make today (or even good and not so good decisions you made in the past) can have both short and long-term impacts on your taxes and the estate you leave behind.

Truth is, it really does sneak up on you. Like a slow drip, each moment is a drop and it fills up fast. But you know, the same is true of financial decisions that help us fill up for the future, no matter what age we are. My best friend often reminds me, “Start where you stand.”

Too Soon Old…

BE SMART NOW!

BY M. VICKY WILSON

W

hile perusing gift catalogs prior to Christmas, I saw a t-shirt that read, “I thought getting old would take longer”. Gosh, I thought, isn’t that the truth.

Having just spun into my mid-50s, or should I say creaked, I’m suddenly hyperaware of the miles I see fading in the rearview mirror. Where did the time go? Am I wholly prepared for what lies ahead? What smart decisions could I have made back in my ‘I’m young and I’ve got plenty of time’ 20s, my ‘I’m not ready to be’ 30s or my ‘no way am I’ 40s? What can I do right now in my ‘how did I get here’ 50s?

Stages of life are a funny thing. Just when we think we have a handle on it all (or delude ourselves to think that we do) things change. We change or our priorities change. So even if you are older than me, it’s not too late to make a plan. It’s smart to consult a tax professional before you make a decision to make sure it’s in your best financial interest. Whether it involves investments, starting a business, buying or selling real estate, life insurance, wills or trusts, retirement planning, or helping out your kids or grandkids, it all flows into your tax return.

Decisions you make today (or even good and not so good decisions you made in the past) can have both short and long-term impacts on your taxes and the estate you leave behind. You owe every age you’ve ever been and every age you hope to attain the best possible outcome while you motor through the years, and when you finish the last mile of this journey. I think the sayings are true: Youth is wasted on the young and, we are too soon old and too late smart. Time to start making your best plan!

M. Vicky Wilson is a founding partner in Liberty Tax Service at 439 N. El Camino Real, as well as a California State Certified Residential Appraiser (CRA) with an Accredited Green Appraiser (AGA) designation and an appointed Member of Assessment Appeals Board No.3 for the County of Orange. She also holds a State License for Life & Health Insurance and is on the Board of Directors for the San Clemente Downtown Business Association and an Ambassador for the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce.

Ms. Wilson may be contacted at (949) 271-1200.

Your Local Tax Strategy Partner Experience the Liberty Tax Difference! We work with you to help you understand what goes into your tax return and how to get the most out of your tax situation. We are open year round so it’s easy to get help when tax season ends. Liberty Tax offers FREE tax preparation for your dependents as well as FREE FAFSA forms (with your paid return.) Call, Email or Walk-in anytime for a free consultation or if you have questions regarding any of our services.

At Liberty Tax...We Care For You!

Call Today!

Services Include: • Personal & Business Tax Preparation • Bookkeeping • Payroll • Tax planning

439 N. El Camino Real, #B • San Clemente, CA 92672 (949) 271-1200 • libtaxsc@gmail.com 6 TALEGA LIFE

• Notary • Health & Life Insurance • Annuities • Tax classes

Real Estate

Grant for First-Time

TALEGA HOMEBUYERS PRESENTED BY THE ECHELBERGER GROUP

What is the Talega Lifestyle Transfer Fee? Having handled hundreds of home sales in Talega, I can tell you that roughly only 15% of sellers remember this fee when they go to sell their home.

The Talega Lifestyle Transfer Fee is ¼% of the sales price and is labeled as an “Enhancement Fee.” Every time a property is sold in Talega, this fee is paid to the Talega Lifestyle Corporation.

Enhancement fees are not uncommon to newer communities in California. The fee is typically paid for by the buyer because they are the ones who receive the benefit. However, many buyers are skeptical when it comes to enhancement fees, primarily because they have never heard of it before. In fact, enhancement fees are oftentimes the biggest obstacle for first-time homebuyers. That is why the Enhancement Fee Grant is important news for Talega and will benefit the 2017 market.

What is the Enhancement Fee Grant? It offers to pay the enhancement fee for first-time homebuyers in communities like Talega. The grant is offered in conjunction with the Orange County Association of Realtors (OCAR) and California Association of Realtors (CAR) Housing Affordability Fund, and the funds are administered by the Housing Opportunities Collaborative (HOC).

Who qualifies? The buyer must qualify as a first-time homebuyer and the purchase must be a home under $650,000 with 10% or less down.

Who is a first-time homebuyer? The buyer must be described as one of the following: • An individual who has had no ownership in a principal residence during the 3-year period ending on the date of purchase of the property. This includes a spouse (if either meets the above test, they are considered first-time homebuyers).

• A single parent who has only owned with a former spouse while married.

• An individual who is a displaced homemaker and has only owned with a spouse.

• An individual who has only owned a principal residence not permanently affixed to a permanent foundation in accordance with applicable regulations.

• An individual who has only owned a property that was not in compliance with state, local or model building codes and which cannot be brought into compliance for less than the cost of constructing a permanent structure.

How can you apply? If the buyer meets all the above criteria, then they qualify to apply for this grant. It is the responsibility of your real estate agent to complete and provide the application to OCAR on your behalf. If the grant is approved, the buyer’s agent will receive an acceptance letter and the disbursement of funds will be handled through escrow.

When is the grant available? Funds are available now and will be issued on first-come, first-serve basis. The Enhancement Fee Grant will remain available until funds run out.

Enhancement fees and HOA payments do not have to be an obstacle, especially for first-time homebuyers. We are proud to partner with a full-service team of real estate agents and dedicated support staff that have a proven track record of getting the job done.

Home is where your story begins…Let us be a part of your story!

To sign up to receive Market Reports and The Green Sheet to your inbox every month, email Doug at info@echelberger.com. If you are in the market to buy, sell or lease property, please contact him directly at (949) 463-0400 for a Free Home Valuation.

Philanthropy & Community News

On Friday, March 10th, The Gratitude Garden Preschool is hosting their annual fundraiser, The Love of Children’s Art.

The event takes place at Talega Golf Club from 6-10pm.

Join local artists and families for an artistic black-tie ball.

Call (949) 572-4453 for tickets.

PACK 112 Pays it Forward

with 1,446 Pounds of Non Perishables!

Cub Scout Pack 112 in San Clemente got very creative with cans (and boxes of food and diapers too) during their pack meeting at Vista del Mar Elementary School on December 5th.

This Pack meeting was themed “A Scout is Kind – Paying it Forward” with a huge and heavy goal of collecting 1,000 pounds of non-perishable food and diapers. The items were donated to Family Assistance Ministries in San Clemente at the conclusion of the meeting.

Amazingly, their 1,000-pound donation goal was not only met, it was completely shattered!

Pack 112 donated 1,446 pounds of food and diapers to FAM! This was literally double the amount the pack donated last year.

Cheryl Winsten, a longtime Pack 112 and FAM volunteer stated “It’s surprising to see how many people right here in Orange County are struggling. Volunteering at FAM makes you realize we are all vulnerable to the changing economy, and it encourages you to give back to your neighbors in need. You never know when you may be the one struggling.”

So what is a “pack” of approximately 70 Cub Scouts supposed to do with 1,446 pounds of cans, packages and boxes of food and diapers before they donate them to such a worthy cause? Build awesome structures with them of course! And oh what awesome structures this creative group of Scouts ended up building! Trains, racing cars, flags and famous buildings were all represented. Christmas-themed awards were presented to the first and second place dens, but everyone who donated and built ended up a big winner at this meeting. The pack’s kindergarten-fifth grade boys demonstrated an amazing amount of planning and teamwork in building these incredible structures with their den members in only 25 minutes. Way to go Pack 112 Cub Scouts!

Do you have a son in kindergarten-fifth grade in San Clemente who could benefit from the fun and community-oriented meeting/events/campouts that are part of being a Scout?

Please contact Suzie Taylor at pack112recruiting@gmail.com for more information on how to become a member of our awesome pack.

Meet the Authors Luncheon

February 25th, 2017 Excitement is in the air as San Clemente Friends of the Library plan for its Seventeenth Annual Meet the Authors Luncheon February 25th, 2017 at the Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club in Mission Viejo. Featured are three outstanding authors to astound and inspire you. Beginning with award winning author Catriona McPherson who is best known for her clever Dandy Gilver mystery series set in Scotland, as well as many stand-alone novels. “A hedonistic mix of historical fiction, black comedy and murder mystery” THE LADY said of Dandy Gilver and a Most Misleading Habit.

Alex Espinoza, born in Mexico and raised in LA, has written two critically acclaimed novels and many short stories. “Espinoza is poised to become the Faulkner of his own landscape, that of the Agua Mansa community of inland southern California,” author Susan Straight said of Espinoza’s Still Water Saints.

Last, but certainly not least is break-out author, Kim Hooper who has written a debut novel, People Who Knew Me. Jessica Lakso of the Wall Street Journal wrote “Ms. Hooper captures the intimate details with edgy, dark humor… Written as a series of interwoven flashbacks, People Who Knew Me has a sharp edge of emotional trauma and disappointment.”

Tickets go on sale January 1st for $60.00 each. For more information please e-mail scfotl@gmail.com or Alma Savage at (949) 493-5504.

8 TALEGA LIFE

Pet Corner

ATTENTION KIDS!

Have you or someone you know: • Been involved in any community service events?

• Won a special award?

• Performed in a local production?

• Held a bake sale in your neighborhood?

Meet Elvis PHOTO BY MICHELLE MILLER

We’d love to feature you in our local Community News page!

Please submit content to Joanna Larson at jlarscon@bestversionmedia.com.

Elvis will be 15 in April. We got him when he was four months old from Palmdale. He was malnourished and infected with ticks. He has lived in CA, WA and MN. He is gentle and sweet.

He loves getting his ears rubbed. He likes to escape to the front yard to just lie there and watch what’s going on in the neighborhood.

Let’s show what makes Talega

Zona Miller (age 11) and Beckett Miller (age 9.)

• Something else?

such a great place to live!

CHOC Los Ninos Group

We’d love to feature your cherished pet in an upcoming issue! Please send a high-resolution photo along with your pet’s name and breed or species, along with what makes him or her unique to jlarson@bestversionmedia.com.

Save the Date:

Thursday, March 9th 11:00am-3:00pm CHOC Los Ninos Guild Annual Fundraiser “ Time To Play” @ Bella Collina Golf Club.

This year the Los Ninos Guild has pledged $45,000 for CHOC@Mission Hospital to purchase a transport machine for premature newborns in the neonatal unit. www.bestversionmedia.com

FEBRUARY 2017 9

Feature Story

23rd Time’s the Charm!

BY SARAH STOKES | PHOTOS BY KATIE MORROW PHOTOGRAPHY

Y

ou might think that a couple saying their wedding vows with their children attending as maid of honor and best man might be a blended family. But in this case, when Jancee and Lee Aellig recite their vows with their children watching on, it’s a case of a couple renewing their vows to each other, something they do every year.

product development and design firm in Carlsbad,” Jancee says.

In 2010 he became vice president of operations and currently works in both capacities as director of both the graphic design and operations departments. “Lee has been interested in art and illustration his whole life. He feels lucky to be doing what he loves as a career,” shares Jancee.

“Each year, for the past 22 years, Lee and I have traveled to a new place, usually another country, for a vacation and to renew our wedding vows,” Jancee shares. “We have been married 23 times in places like Africa, Australia, Peru, Ireland, Italy, Thailand, Greece, Fiji, Costa Rica, Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean islands.”

Jancee currently works for Craig Realty Group. She began as the general manager of Carlsbad Company Stores and is now a senior specialty leasing executive. “Craig Realty Group is the company that built and owns the Outlets at San Clemente plus 13 other outlet centers nationwide, including the Citadel Outlets in Los Angeles,” says Jancee.

But before they became a family that loves to travel the world together, Jancee and Lee were each living and working in Southern California. Jancee, a graduate of Cal State University San Bernardino, was in management at Price Club/Costco while Lee was designing Costco’s private label packaging. The two met at a Costco convention, where Jancee was attending as the guest entertainment (Jancee is also a singer; more on that later). The couple married in 1994 and settled in San Diego.

Lee, a graduate of Palomar College, acquired a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising at the La Jolla Academy of Advertising Arts (now known as The Art Institute of California, San Diego). After working in various advertising and art positions around San Diego, Lee opened a graphic design business in 1984. Then, “In 1987 Lee began work as Senior Art Director for DYNAPAC Design Group, a

If having a busy career and family wasn’t enough, Jancee is also a singer. “I sang semi-professionally, both in bands and solo,” she says. A woman of many talents, Jancee was also Miss Rialto 1983, Miss Inland Empire 1995 and was the Miss Rialto Pageant Director for ten years. “My family is from Mississippi,” explains Jancee, “so I like to say I’m a Southern California girl raised with Southern hospitality.”

Because both Lee and Jancee were working north of San Diego, the couple decided to move to San Clemente in 2008. They settled on a home in Pacifica Summit in Talega. “When we moved in, our neighbors brought us brownies and welcomed us to the neighborhood. That was our first welcome and people just don’t do that anymore,” Jancee recalls fondly.

10 TALEGA LIFE

The couple’s two children, Shaina and Chase, quickly made friends through Vista Del Mar and through extracurricular activities. Says Lee, “I know for me, coming from San Diego, we came from a place where the kids were very involved in their extracurricular activities, but it wasn’t always easy to find friends in the neighborhood we lived in. We didn’t feel so much a part of the community. But when we came to Talega eight years ago, it was a lot more welcoming.

People were paying attention to the development of their youth. I felt much more a part of things.”

Growing up, their daughter, Shaina, was very active outside of school. “She showed quite an interest in multiple areas throughout her youth,” says Jancee: “dance, taekwondo, cheer, school talent shows, student government and now she’s heavily involved with her college sorority.” A 2015 graduate of San Clemente High School, Shaina is now a sophomore at Arizona State University.

She’s currently studying business communication and is active in the Delta Zeta sorority.

Their son Chase is a junior at San Juan Hills High School where he played junior varsity and varsity football. An avid athlete since the age of four, Chase played football, baseball, basketball and lacrosse, “Chase is now interested in a career in sports photography,” Jancee shares. “He also likes the beach, surfing and spending time with his girlfriend, Maddy.”

In addition to having busy careers and two children, the Aelligs also make time to stay active in the community. Jancee has been a member of the San Clemente Sunrise Rotary for the past eight years, volunteering and raising money for FAM, Laura’s House, the military, local high school scholarships, polio eradication, and more.

“Lee has been involved with The Ad Club and San Diego Museum of Art and has been honored by winning more than 50 logo designs over the past 15 years,” says Jancee. Lee has also immersed himself in youth sports. “He’s been coaching since 2004— football, basketball and baseball, up through the high school level. Lee is also an avid Green Bay Packers fan, having been born in the ‘Cheesehead’ state of Wisconsin.” Big football fans in general, the Aelligs have been season ticket holders for the San Diego Chargers since 2001.

Helping out in the community doesn’t stop at local charities and youth sports. The family also has a six-year-old Maltipoo rescue dog named Roxy. “Shaina had an orthodontist appointment,” Jancee recalls. “and I was in the waiting room and heard a lady saying, ‘she’s so cute and fluffy but I can’t keep her because I have too many dogs.’ That lady had rescued Roxy from a neighbor who was not taking care of her. It was fate!”

Another story that brings up a similar notion of “fate” is from the first few days after the family moved into their new home in Talega.

“We were just unpacking our stuff and we heard a knock at the door,” recalls Lee. “Three teenagers were playing “Bigger or Better (a game in which one item is offered up in exchange for a bigger and better item.) They gave us a big blue ball and we gave them a small refrigerator. We had just moved in and I didn’t know where to put it, so I gave it to them! Turns out one of the kids had lived here, and had actually grown up in our house. This was a chance to give him something from his old home.”

Each year, for the past 22 years, Lee and I have traveled to a new place, usually another country, for a vacation and to renew our wedding vows.

Stories like that exemplify a sense of community, something the Aelligs were looking for, and definitely have found here in Talega.

Wedding #23 in 2016

We would like to thank Laura Koneval from Koneval Estates for bringing you this month's feature story.

12  TALEGA LIFE

Mind/Body Health

Authenticity as a Theme for

Valentine’s Day

BY PAULA SHAW

It’s February and we all know what that means… no, not Super Bowl…Valentine’s Day!

I

can already hear the men groaning and the women ‘aww-ing’ as they read this. Let’s face it, most men— pretty much across the board— hate this holiday, yet we fantasy-loving women still hold out hope every year that our guy will finally get it right.

What is getting it right? Godiva Chocolates instead of a Hershey Bar? Long stemmed roses instead of a bouquet from the supermarket?

What’s the magic formula?

What about Authenticity, Presence, and Real Connection? Again, I’m hearing groans from some of you guys but wait a minute, let me explain. We all know that this holiday was created primarily for women. I do realize that there are a few rare men who are really romantic and who live to surprise their sweeties with unexpected flowers, a home cooked dinner, hot drawn baths and breakfast in bed. I know these men exist because I have heard the tales but, quite frankly, I have never met one.

Even in childhood, my father was the guy who gave my mother a rock polisher while all her friends got diamonds. I, like many, didn’t witness romance in their relationship firsthand. So let’s talk about the realities that the majority of us face.

What I see too often in my practice is that around February 1st, women start experiencing PTSD symptoms in fear that “He’s going to blow it again” while the guys have to fight the urge to say “This is a crock of $#!&” and instead, opt for the safer alternative of making dinner reservations somewhere expensive.

Ok everyone, listen up, I have a great idea that won’t cost a fortune and will actually achieve a better end result than a perfect date would.

Consider taking the advice of Psychologist Gary Chapman who wrote

The 5 Love Languages. He says that they are: Quality Time Acts of Service Physical Touch Gifts Words of Affirmation Everyone has a primary and a secondary Love Language. Spend some time figuring out what your primary and secondary love languages are and more importantly, what your partner’s are. Then— and here’s the important part— do something for your beloved that is in alignment with what speaks LOVE to them. For example, if your gal or guy’s primary love language is Gifts, then cooking dinner or taking them a romantic picnic isn’t going to light them up. Better to opt for a cashmere scarf or a piece of jewelry. But if their primary love language is Acts of Service, you will hit a home run with the above. Just remember that the most important aspect of this approach is to do what would feel like a statement of love to your sweetheart, not what speaks love to you.

In the words of author H. Jackson Brown Jr, “Love is when the other person's happiness is more important than your own.” Make that your Valentine’s Day goal and I guarantee you that it will be the best one ever.

Paula Shaw is a Life Transition Strategist and Grief Expert, an author and speaker with a private practice in Encinitas. She can be reached at (626) 864-0756. paulashaw.com

Love is when the other person’s happiness is more important than your own.

FEBRUARY 2017 13

SuSan DallaS H attan, ESq. Estate Pl anning

Enrolling for 2017-2018 Creativity, Exploration, & Gratitude Grow Here (949) 572-4453 GratitudeGardenPreschool.com

92 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente, CA 92673

BET TER TOGETHER

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen nor even touched, but just felt in the heart.” ~ Helen Keller

People tend to think of estate planning as something that only the wealthy or the elderly need to do. In truth, regardless of your situation in life or your level of wealth, estate planning accomplishes several universal goals. We all need a plan to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

Your neighborhood Estate Planning Attorney Susan Hattan can help you. With an educational, collaborative approach, we will determine your individual needs, desires, and values to craft a customized plan that will give you peace of mind and confidence for the future.

Call for a free consultation.

Check our website for more information on services offered by attorney Susan Dallas Hattan and upcoming workshops.

www.susanhattanlaw.com Susan Dallas Hattan, esq.

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1311 CALLE BATIDO SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92673

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14 TALEGA LIFE

STYLE SPOT

How To Keep The New Year,

New You On Track

Meal Prep For The Week Ahead

BY SCARLETT HANNON

Instead of sacrificing healthy and filling for quick, on-the-go meals, prep ahead of time.

On Sundays, I like to prep a few different dishes and package them so they are quick to grab on the way out. Variety is key! Make yourself a number of quick healthy dishes so you have options and don’t get bored.

O

ur busy lives keep us on the go 24/7. Lengthy morning routines and beauty regiments have a way of sucking up our time. How do you keep the New Year New You on top of those resolution’s and embody your most fabulous self? Sometimes less is more. Instead of stressing on getting everything perfect from head to toe, here are some hacks to get you up, glam and checking off those daily to-dos.

Re-prioritize

Make-It-Up

Even changing up your morning routine will not always give you enough time to pack in all of the daily to-dos. Don’t be hard on yourself.

Change it up. Instead of an hour workout in the morning, try changing to evening. Or throw some sneakers in the car and take a lunch-break or mid-day brisk walk. Look for those daily open gaps of 15-30 minutes.

Crunch in some self time. Whether it’s a quick workout, powernap, or journaling.

Instead of a lengthy beauty routine, start with a base. Foundation, bronzer and highlighter can go a long way! My go-tos are: clean foundation, blush and brow gel. The beauty of a light morning layer is you can always add more. Pop on a bold lip or lash later in the day and you’re off to happy hour! Plus, a lighter look gives off a carefree, low-maintenance vibe.

Cozy Can Be Chic It is hard to wake up and ditch the comfy cottons at the 6 A.M. alarm. But what if you didn’t have to? Wide-leg palazzos, oversized flannels and basic tees can be transformed by just two things: accessories and shoes. Try throwing on a heel and layering necklaces with a cozy maxi. Or add a wedge and hat with some pajama-esque pants and an oversized sweater.

Scarlett Hannon is a writer/blogger living in Southern California. You can read more of her writing at conflictedbythemiddle.blogspot.com.

No matter where you are on your spiritual journey,

You are welcome here.

Sunday’s Celebration Service

Special Events:

This month’s theme is Celebrating Diversity and Inclusivity February 5 – To Be Human is to Embody Paradox February 12 – God Comes Through the Wound February 19 – Gino Walker ~ The Power of Positivity Now February 26 – Active Listening Meditation ~ 10 a.m.

Service ~ 10:30 a.m.

Youth Program for infants to teens.

CSLiving Lifelong Learning Summit Bring your ideas for new classes and help shape our class offerings Friday, Feb. 3, 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 4, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Wednesday’s Wisdom Service ~ 7 p.m.

Feb. 1, Community Potluck @ 5:45 with childcare during the service from 7 to 8 p.m.

BRING THIS AD

with you to one of our services or events and receive a gift from our bookstore.

Sacred Breathing and Sound Bath Workshop

Featuring Shamanic Practitioner, John Rozenberg, and Singer/Songwriter, Kelly Corsino Sunday, February 12, at noon

Dynamic Singer/Speaker Gino Walker Workshop “The Power of Positivity Now” Sunday, February 19, at noon

949-240-6463

1201 Puerta Del Sol, Ste. 100, San Clemente, 92673 www.bestversionmedia.com

Event information is subject to change. Please check our website for the most up-to-date details.

For information about all upcoming services, events, small groups and classes, visit www.cslcv.org FEBRUARY 2017 15

Calendar of Events

Tuesday, February 7th SAN CLEMENTE WOMAN’S CLUB GENERAL MEETING 10:30am @ Talega Swim & Athletic Club- Fireside Room Come join to see what we’re all about! www.sanclementewomansclub.org facebook.com/sanclementewomansclub

2017 Saturday, February 11th FAMILY ASSISTANCE MINISTRIES EXTRA HELP

Saturdays THE TALEGA RUN CLUB 7:30 AM @Peet's Coffee in Talega Thinking of getting back into shape by starting to run or looking to stop being a lone wolf and run with the pack? This is a running group for all levels of runners—from those preparing to do their first 5K to the hardened marathoner. Within the group, runners at similar paces will run together to help motivate each other. All running speeds and distances are welcome. There are plenty of opportunities to shorten or extend your run to personalize your workout. We'll hang out after the run at Peet's to socialize a bit.

Join us and start your day off right!

All Ages www.meetup.com/2XU-San-Clemente-Outlet-Meetup/

Sundays SAN CLEMENTE FARMERS MARKET 9:00am-3:00pm Opened in 1994, the market extends for a few blocks along the north side of Avenida del Mar between Ola Vista and Calle Seville. The wide selection of fruits and vegetables includes produce from organic growers. Fresh flowers, plant starts, honey, bread, and some prepared foods.

In addition to our normal Monday through Friday hours, we also open our doors on the second Saturday of every month. We provide food, and also a particular special need.

Past events have included free backpacks for kids, medical supplies, and flu shots. Call today to see what’s happening this month! (949) 492-8477 at 1030 Calle Negocio.

February 8-12 15TH ANNUAL LAGUNA BEACH MUSIC FESTIVAL A co-presentation of Laguna Beach Live! and the Philharmonic Society of Orange County, the Laguna Beach Music Festival is an annual multi-day celebration featuring outstanding classical and contemporary concerts in intimate spaces, community outreach programs and dynamic special events.

The Festival is committed to offering free outreach events for students, seniors and the community-at-large.

For tickets of more information: Philharmonic Society of Orange County (949) 553-2422 philharmonicsociety.org Laguna Playhouse (949) 497-2787 lagunaplayhouse.com

March 4-5 & March 11-12 DANA POINT FESTIVAL OF WHALES

“SPOTLIGHT”

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Katrina is now taking on new private students of all ages, from professional, to keen amateur, to complete newcomer.

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Wed. & Sat.

THIS PIECE OF COLLATERAL EXPIRES: 09/15/17

THE RESERVE

AT RANCHO MISSION VIEJO Visit www.rmvreserve.org/calendar for more information.

Saturday, February 11th SATURDAY TRAIL CLEARING AND WEEDING 8:00–11:30am @The Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy Volunteer to spend a few hours in beautiful surroundings helping make The Reserve trails accessible to our visitors. Join the crew dedicated to protecting our native ecosystems by maintaining trails and eliminating weeds.

Volunteer efforts make an impact! Drinks and snacks provided. (BRING: Work gloves if you have them).

Ages: 10 and up

Saturday, February 11th LOVE THE LAND FAMILY WALK 9:00–11:30am @The Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy Fall in love with the land this Valentine's weekend as we take a walk along the Reserve trails. Find out how grasslands, oak woodlands and coastal sage scrub habitats have provided food, shelter and space for many different species through time. Soak in the beauty of late winter on the Reserve and discover the many reasons to love the land!

Ages: 6 and up General Admission: $5.00 Supporter: Free

Saturday, February 18th FUN FINDING FUNGI MUSHROOM WALK 9:00am–12:00pm @The Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy Explore the fascinating world of wild mushrooms with amateur mycologist Joanne Schwartz. If we are fortunate and get rain, we might find a wide range of fungal forms and species.

Ages: 8 and up Adult: $10.00 Child: $5.00 Supporter: Free

Tuesday, February 21st LECTURE: HISTORICAL ARCHAEOLOGY ON RANCHO MISSION VIEJO - FROM THE PORTOLA EXPEDITION TO THE MOON LANDING

7:00–8:30pm @Guest House in Rancho Mission Viejo Join us for a lecture presented by historian, Stephen Van Wormer. Mr. Van Wormer will discuss the historical archaeology that has been carried out on the Ranch from the 1970's to the present, focusing on the Portola Expedition, Trabuco Adobe, Mission Viejo Adobe, and the Capistrano Test Site.

Ages: 8 and up Free

Saturday, February 25th ASTRONOMY NIGHT 6:30–8:30pm @The Richard and Donna O'Neill Conservancy Enjoy an evening outdoors, as you gaze into the heavens, learn the constellations, and peer through the telescopes of our volunteer astronomers. Reserve astronomers are all volunteers who enthusiastically share their telescopes and expert sky knowledge with you. (BRING: Warm clothing, Red cellophaned flashlight, binoculars, optional beach chair.)

Ages: 8 and up Adult: $10.00 Child: $5.00 Supporter: Free Are you a member of a club? Non-profit organization?

Fundraising team? Neighborhood group?

We would love to help you publicize your event for free!

Please provide the information to Joanna Larson (jlarson@bestversionmedia. com). No activity is too large or small! The format is: logo (high-resolution, sent as separate attachment), date, title of event, time, location, brief description of event, cost (if applicable) and web link for more information (if applicable). www.bestversionmedia.com

FEBRUARY 2017 17

Transportation Solutions

PLANS TO STUDY TRAFFIC RELIEF OPTIONS in South Orange County Move Forward

BY MICHAEL KRAMAN

I

n collaboration with local, state and federal transportation agencies, the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) is moving forward with further study of regional mobility concepts for South Orange County. Sixteen transportation mobility concepts that were identified through a community and stakeholder outreach process at two well attended public meetings—including one held in San Clemente at St. Andrews by the Sea—will be evaluated for feasibility as part of the formal environmental review process required for all major transportation improvement projects in California.

At its December board meeting , the Foothill/Eastern Transportation

Corridor Agency (F/ETCA) approved two items related to improving regional mobility in South Orange County. These actions allow TCA to proceed with the California Department of Transportation’s (Caltrans) required project initiation process to evaluate the technical feasibility of these transportation alternatives. The results of this initial process will determine which alternatives may be carried forward through the formal environmental process required under the National Environmental Policy Act and the California Environmental Quality Act. In November, TCA settled five outstanding lawsuits with the Save San Onofre Coalition and the State’s Attorney General is clearing the path for this process to move forward. The Save San Onofre

18 TALEGA LIFE

Sixteen transportation mobility concepts that were identified through a community and stakeholder outreach process… will be evaluated for feasibility as part of the formal environmental review process required for all major transportation improvement projects in California.

Coalition (SSOC) is made up of 12 national and state environmental organizations. The settlement specifically provides that: • TCA will not finance or build a transportation project within specifically defined environmentally sensitive areas including San Onofre State Beach, the Richard and Donna O’Neill Conservancy and other critical open space, wildlife habitat and cultural resources in the San Mateo Creek watersheds;

representatives, state transportation planning agencies, environmental leaders and the public to improve regional mobility in South Orange County.

• SSOC will not oppose transportation project alternatives proposed

by TCA that avoid the specifically defined environmentally sensitive areas including San Onofre State Beach, the Richard and Donna O’Neill Conservancy and other critical open space, wildlife habitat and cultural resources in the San Mateo Creek watersheds;

We encourage you to remain involved and engaged in this process as it moves forward. Learn more at www.getmovingoc.com.

[Editor’s Note:] The Save San Onofre Coalition comprises the following 12 California and national environmental organizations: Audubon California, California Coastal Protection Network, California State Parks Foundation, Defenders of Wildlife, Endangered Habitats League, Laguna Greenbelt, Inc., Natural Resources Defense Council, Orange County Coastkeeper, Sea and Sage Audubon Society, Sierra Club, Surfrider Foundation and WiLDCOAST/COASTALVAjE.

• TCA be required to establish a $28 million conservation fund to help preserve and restore San Mateo Creek and its watershed as mitigation for a new transportation project alternative.

“This is a significant milestone toward relieving regional traffic congestion for so many of our residents and commuters,” said Lisa Bartlett, F/ETCA Vice Chair and Orange County Supervisor, 5th District. “Through a very deliberate public engagement process, we have hosted two public forums and solicited the community for input to establish their priorities and identify community-based solutions that will provide much needed traffic relief on our roads and freeways.”

The Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) are two joint powers authorities formed by the California legislature in 1986 to plan, finance, construct and operate Orange County’s public toll road system. Fifty-one miles of the system are complete, including the 73, 133, 241 and 261 Toll Roads. More than three hundred thousand people from all over Southern California use TCA’s toll roads each day. Elected officials from surrounding cities and county supervisorial districts are appointed to serve on each agency’s board of directors. Public oversight ensures that the interests of local communities and drivers are served and that TCA continues to meet the region’s growing need for congestion-free transportation alternatives.

We will continue to engage in a stakeholder-driven community outreach process with elected officials, local and regional

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At Edward Jones, we can explain options fo your 401(k), including leaving the money in At Edward Jones, we can explain options for your former employer’s plan, moving it to your 401(k), including leaving the money inrolling it over to your new employer’s plan, your former employer’s plan, moving it toAccount (IRA) or an Individual Retirement out the it account subject to tax your new employer’scashing plan, rolling over to consequences. an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or To learn why consolidating your retirement accounts cashing out the account subject taxor visit your financial To learn more,to call to Edward Jones makes sense, contact your Edward consequences. advisor today.

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FEBRUARY 2017 19

I

f you’re hosting a dinner party, or other event where food is key, the most important task is deciding what to serve. But what we see when we sit down to a meal can have a big impact on our appetite and how we taste things, making presentation nearly as important as the food itself.

SEEING IS BELIEVING It turns out that our eyes often tell us more about food than our tongues. When we see food, our brain automatically makes connections to other foods we’ve experienced. When we see a strawberry we know what it will taste like without actually tasting it. If we see a red candy, we expect it to be sweet based on past experiences. These expectations can be so strong that they can actually affect how we taste.

The Right Impression at Mealtime

In a frequently cited experiment, several wine lovers were given a glass of red wine to sample. Unbeknownst to the tasters it was actually a white wine that had been colored with a flavorless red dye. When asked about the wine’s flavor, the tasters

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described it like a red wine, noting the taste of berries and other flavors common to red wines. They saw red so they tasted red.

The strong effect of appearance on how we experience food shows that proper food presentation is worth the extra effort for your next event.

SITTING PRETTY Our reaction to food isn’t just influenced by the color of it, but also by the colors around it. For an eye-pleasing meal, you need a background that pairs well with the food.

White plates and dishes are your best bet.

Clean, neutral and universal, white goes with just about anything, serving as a blank canvas that won’t interfere with the main subject. But white can also be boring.

Ideally, the plates will contrast yet harmonize the dish you’re serving.

For green foods like salads and pesto pastas, opt for yellow serving plates. Red contrasts too sharply and can suck the life out of fresh greens.

If you’re serving chicken, potatoes, alfredo or another primarily beige meal, stick with black or brown. These colors can bring out the food’s warm, appetizing tones. Avoid beige as it will make these foods look bland and boring.

For red foods, like tomato-based meals, beef or dishes with a red sauce, choose classic white. And just as a red plate is bad for green foods, a green plate does no favors for red foods.

Serving up something in the orange or yellow family like eggs, a corn or mango salsa or a curry? Try to find a blue that’s warm and bright to draw out the warmth of yellow and orange. Stay away from purple as it tends to bring out cool tones that can make these foods look unappetizing.

Don’t forget dessert! With such a wide variety they can’t be easily grouped by color. The stylists recommend choosing a plate that matches the garnish. Have a raspberry-topped tart? Put it on a berry-red plate. Serving something with a delicious dollop of fresh whipped cream? Choose a white dish. Avoid blue as it’s bound to make desserts look less sweet.

DRESS IT UP To give a meal a truly polished look, don’t forget a garnish. A sprig of rosemary, a twist of orange or a sprinkling of slivered almonds can make a meal look finished, like a signed piece of art. It shows your guests that you put in the extra care and attention they deserve.

Garnishes can also be very practical.

Remember how the wine-drinkers expected the red wine to taste red?

Certainly you wouldn’t be trying to trick your guests, but the right garnish can set the culinary tone and give important information if a guest is unfamiliar with the dish. Choose an eye-pleasing ingredient from the recipe. Garnish spicy dishes with small peppers. Something with citrus notes? Top it with lemon slices or a sprinkling of zest.

For your next dinner party, take some extra time to make sure each food is presented in its best light. Your guests’ eyes – and taste buds – will thank you for it!

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