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Volume 2, Number 2 • March / April 2011 Bringing The Community Together Mira Mesa • Sorrento Valley • MCAS Miramar

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Page 1: MML_March/April

Volume 2, Number 2 • March / April 2011

Bringing The Community TogetherMira Mesa • Sorrento Valley • MCAS Miramar

Page 2: MML_March/April

We’re dedicating this issue of Mira Mesa Living to the stories of some of the amazingachievements the youth in our community have accomplished. You know the saying,“the children are our future” And Mira Mesa’s future is effulgent. (Kids, rememberthat for the SATs. It means shining forth brilliantly.) In this issue we cover topics suchas sports and the arts.

The Mira Mesa High School varsity football team went farther than any otherMarauder in the last quarter century. They came a bit short of the obvious goal, butset a solid foundation for the team’s future as well as those of the players.

In 2001, the San Diego Stallions youth baseball team won the national AAU(Amateur Athletic Union) National Championship. Several players on that team wereliving in Mira Mesa, along with the team’s manager, Scott Chambless, who’s been aMira Mesa resident for more than 35 years.

Mira Mesa High School students are getting dirt under their nails and a realunderstanding for how Mother Nature works. During a time when test results ruleover all, this group is expanding its horizons and learning the deeper meaning ofthose numbers.

Much is happening in the next couple of months. Expect lively theatre and livelierdebates. Discussion will range from delicious local food at the Taste of Mira Mesa tothe future of our political boundaries through redistricting.

A big “thank you” goes out to the community of people who helped us with storiesfor this issue. And as always, we thank our advertisers who support our publicationthat is free to the Mira Mesa community.

We’re coming into this March a little chilly, but Mira Mesa’s future is an explosion ofhot ideas. We suggest you get comfy while reading this issue. If you have any youwould like to share with us as well as the community it is easy to reach us:

Here is how you can reach us:

To Advertise – [email protected] submit your articles, news and events – [email protected] Contact the Publisher – [email protected] Join Mira Mesa Cultural Cooperative – [email protected]

Thank you for picking up the latest issue of Mira Mesa Living.

Sincerely,The Staff at Mira Mesa Living

Leah R. Singer, Writer – Ms. Singer is a freelance writer and blogs aboutfamily, motherhood, traditions, cooking andother such topics. She earned a master’s degreein communication andbachelor’s degree injournalism and politicalscience, both from SanDiego State University. Ms.Singer enjoys living in MiraMesa with her husband,daughter, and animal family.Read more about her at:leahsthoughts.com.

Steve Nicoles, Editor – Mr. Nicoles worked for nearly a decade as aprofessional television news reporter. He bringsthat experience along with several journalismawards including a regionalEmmy ™ to Mira MesaLiving. As a graduate of SanDiego State University, Mr.Nicoles is excited to beliving and working in SanDiego while focusing onone of the city’s mostdiverse and uniqueneighborhoods.

Michelle Tsai, Publisher – Ms. Tsai holds an MBA with an emphasis infinance and a BA in marketing from Universityof San Diego. She has lived in the Mira Mesaneighborhood for nearly a decade. In that timeshe has joined severalcommittees includingserving as Vice President ofthe Mira Mesa Chamber ofCommerce in 2009. Ms.Tsai believes her strengthsinclude connecting peopleand groups and buildinglong-standing relationshipsin the community.

Greetingsfrom the staff

©2011 Mira Mesa Living. All Rights Reserved. Neither this publication nor any part thereof may be reproduced in any form, for any use without the written permission of the copyright owner. Contents of Mira Mesa Living are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the staff at Mira Mesa Living. The appearance of advertisingin this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by Mira Mesa Living. The information in this publication is gathered in a way to ensure maximum accuracy. Mira Mesa Living cannot, and does not, guarantee the correctness of information, or the absence of errors or omissions, or against the pres-ence of unintentional inclusions. Mira Mesa Living accepts no responsibility for ad contents or representations. Each advertiser is solely responsible for ad content. Representations made regarding the products, services or conditions are the sole responsibility of the advertiser.

Community:The Smiling Buddha 4Redistricting 7

Youth Sports:The Buzz Behind

Championship Motivation 10One Family, One Purpose 12

School:Garden Club 6Taste of Mira Mesa 11Mason Elementary 16Senior Exhibition 17Miramar College 18

CultureCultural Holidays 22

What’s Inside...

Front Cover Photography: CIF Championship game photo by Cindi Mitchell

AAU National Championship photo source: Scott Chambless. Photo Editing: Wissinger Photography.

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By: Michael Gapasin

The last time the Mira Mesa Maraudersplayed in the stadium for a CIFchampionship was in 1983. The 2010season saw the Marauders make a longawaited trip back to QualcommStadium (known as Jack MurphyStadium in 1983).The journey to theQ was not easy thisyear as theMarauders playedone of the toughestschedules in thecounty. A schedulethat included three2010 CIFchampions (Vista,Oceanside andCathedral Catholic)and a very toughDorsey Dons (12-2)team from LosAngeles. TheMarauders finished the regular seasonwith a record of 5-5.

In the semi-playoff game the Maraudersdefeated then #1 Eastlake Titans downat Eastlake high school. The Titans wentinto that game as the defending divisionI CIF champion with a 22 game winningstreak. The Marauders not onlydefeated the Titans, they shut them out20-0. That victory earned theMarauders a trip back to the Q.

The championship game would be arematch of game one of the regularseason between then ranked #3 VistaPanthers and then ranked #7 MiraMesa. That first game was played witha sophomore quarterback (Trey Lomax)

and a brand new offensive coordinator(Chris Blevins). Lomax was playing forthe injured starting quarterback,Dominic Richardson and Coach Blevinsonly had one week to prepare for thetough Panther defense. The gameended with Vista on top 21-14 in a verytough fought game.

The Marauders looked to get somerevenge on the early season loss. In thefirst quarter of the division Ichampionship game both defenses heldboth offenses in the first quarter. In thesecond quarter Vista found the end zonetwice as they took a 14-0 lead. However,with 3:34 left in the half, quarterbackDominic Richardson finally found arhythm, going 80 yards in nine playstossing a touchdown pass to NathanTajalle on a 6-yard end zone corner route.That brought the Marauders within atouchdown as the Panthers lead athalftime 14-7. Then in the third quarterVista scored 12 points to increase theirlead 26-7. But in the fourth quarter theMarauders rallied for two touchdowns

(scoring run by Richardson and scoringrun by Jalen Fields) to cut the score to 26-21 with 6:42 left in the game. ThePanthers then put together a scoring drivethat brought the score to 33-21. MiraMesa could not put another scoring drivetogether. The final scored ended up 33-21 with the Vista Panthers winning theirninth championship.

The 2010 Marauder football teamreturned 24 seniors. The majority ofthem were returning starters on bothoffense and defense. This year’s teamhad three players (Nathan Castro, TylerLehrke and Dominic Richardson) makeAll-CIF and eight players (Castro,Lehrke, Anthony Payne, Nicholas Payne,Marcus Smith, Marco Lazaro, JaylenBrooks and Gabi Musallam) make All-Eastern League. Nathan Castro wasselected as the Eastern League DefensivePlayer of the Year. Four of the playerssigned letters of intent to play division I

football. Lehrke will be playing for theNaval Academy and the Payne twins andCastro will be playing for SacramentoState. There will most likely be moreplayers from this team signing with othercolleges to play at the next level. HeadCoach Gary Blevins states, "TheMarauder coaching staff and I are so veryproud of the accomplishments of ourseniors and the entire team. We lookforward to building off the championshipteam that we are graduating andcontinuing the Marauder tradition ofexcellence. I was at the school with the1983 team and both teams had acommon no quit attitude."

Cindi Mitchell PhotographySpecializing in Sports and Portraits atthe beach858-271-5759

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National Letter of Intent Signing, Feb. 2011 (from left to right: Tyler Lerke, PayneBrothers, Nathan Castro and their coaches). Photo source: Annette Castro

CIF Championship Game Photo by: Cindi Mitchell Photography

Page 4: MML_March/April

page 4 to submit an article or events for publication e-mail [email protected]

Mira Mesa Living

Are Home Prices in Mira Mesa Going or ?

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A House with a Smiling BuddhaBy Amy Sun

When you pass my house in Mira Mesa, youwill see a large Maitreya Buddha statue in thefront yard. Weighing more than 3,000 pounds,Maitreya Buddha represents the phrase,“always be happy and great generous.” If wecan be generous to everyone and accepting nomatter what the experience is - good or bad -we will always happy, just like MaitreyaBuddha with a happy face all the time. I wishwhoever passes myhome will gain the ener-gy of happiness and gen-erosity to welcome intotheir happy life.

I immigrated to the United States from Hong Kong in1982. My family credits the weather and environmentas the reasons to settle in San Diego. For the past 27years in Mira Mesa, I have been focused on raising mychildren and taking care of the house.

In 1990, I began listening to Buddha’s teachings. Inlearning the truth, I understood the relationships of humans and the universe.All lives are given by heaven and we should treat all beings with fairness, loveand respect. I’m also aware that we humans are the leader of all the beings.Saints (Buddha and Bodhisattva) are fair and equal. With their kindness andmercy, Saints try their best to help others in need. Through their wisdom and

kindness, they help people find hap-piness in life.

The generosity and wisdom of theSaints became a good example tolearn and practice. It changed mefrom only caring for my family tonow expanding my unconditionallove to Mira Mesa. I donated myhouse to share the truth of Buddhaand Saints with our community. We

promote moraland family educa-tion. At the sametime, we also pro-vide charity activi-ties and events tosupport the poor;visiting the sick and lonely seniors; and feed the homelessevery two weeks.

In 2010, we donated 400 sleeping bags and 300 bags ofpersonal care supplies to the homeless. We sponsored

486 low-income individuals in Vietnam to recover from cataracts by payingtheir surgery fees. We also sponsored 156 low-income individuals inCambodia under the same program last year. By gathering our love andsupport together, we can reach more people in this world in need of ourkindness. We encourage donations and volunteers to join us in making a bet-ter future. If you are interested, contact me at [email protected].

Page 5: MML_March/April
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Mira Mesa Living

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By: Steve Nicoles

In an age of test scores andextracurricular cuts in schools, oneMira Mesa High School teacher isdigging deep into his ownpocket so hiss t u d e n t smight plant anew future.Earth scienceteacher MarkSnow got per-mission to cre-ate a gardeningclub at school. Innearly a year, theclub is up toabout a dozenmembers and thegarden, also knownas an outdoor lab, isunder construction.Snow said, “It pro-vides avenues forteachers to take kidsoutside. It’s fun andstill work.”

Many teachers will agree hand-onlearning is just as important asbook-learning. The club membersare getting the first lessons in earthscience as they dig in thedirt and build a gardencomplete with a compostarea, bamboo forest andhummingbird attractors.The space the club is usingused to be full of trash.Slowly it is becoming afully-functioning garden.The snow peas are burstingwith flavor. Garden clubsecretary Mae Camachosaid, “It’s harder than Ithought, but it’s reward-ing.”

Mae had never gardenedbefore joining the club.President Sheryl Chamianhad, but she is still learningwith the club. For example,she quickly discovered adonated plant does not likedirect sunlight. It also

seems to respond better to water-ing from the top rather thandirectly into the soil.

The lessons learnedin this club willstretch beyond theapplications ofbiology and earthscience. Mae saysshe is learningabout nutritionand a betterway to live herlife. The gar-dening club isproviding ane d u c a t i o nthat cannotalways bemeasuredby testscores ora t t a i n e d

by cutting budgets.

For ways to help the Mira MesaHigh School Garden Club includ-ing making a tax deductible dona-tion you can contact Mark Snowat [email protected]. Also, visitthe garden club on Facebook.Search “the MMHS garden Club.”

Planting the Future

page 6 to submit an article or events for publication e-mail [email protected]

Page 7: MML_March/April

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Photo by Ron Moralez, www.ZoomShots.net

By: Mitz Lee

A unique opportunity at San Diego City Hall may place Mira Mesa at the heartof a new city council district.

Once a decade, the San Diego Redistricting Commission convenes to reviewcensus results and rebalance city council district populations by revising the dis-tricts boundaries. This time, under the provisions of the “strong mayor” ballotmeasure passed by voters in the June 2010 election, a new ninth council districtmust also be drawn up during the redistricting process.

How the Commission chooses to redraw the lines will have major implicationsfor Mira Mesa residents because of our central position in the high-growthnorthern neighborhoods.

In between Interstates5 & 15, and north ofState Route 52, newhousing developmentsand an influx of youngfamilies have dramati-cally increased the areapopulation. Officialpopulation projectionsshow that the councildistricts that containnorthern neighbor-hoods (Districts 1 & 5)have ballooned in sizeover the last decade,and have now becomethe largest among alleight districts. Since SanDiego North is the like-ly starting point for bal-ancing district popula-tions, it is also a primelocation for establishingthe new ninth citycouncil district.

The neighborhoods ofMira Mesa, Rancho

Peñasquitos, Miramar Key West and Kearny Mesa are a natural community of inter-est, and are a strong and natural basis for the foundation of the ninth district. (Seethe accompanying map.)

Mira Mesa and Rancho Peñasquitos share the same core city infrastructure andpublic services. The I-15, Black Mountain Road and Highway 56 are sharedtransportation corridors. These neighborhoods also share the city’s water andwastewater distribution systems. The safety of the residents in these communi-ties is protected by the North Eastern Police Division stationed in RanchoPeñasquitos. Because these two adjacent communities have similar developmen-tal histories, a significant number of the citizens have immediate families and rel-atives living and working in these communities, especially in Miramar Base,Sorrento Valley and Kearny Mesa. The children of the Marines who are protect-ing our country go to schools in Mira Mesa. Many of the residents also havesmall businesses in Sorrento Valley and Kearny Mesa, making significant contri-butions to the local economy.

Keeping these communities whole and undivided will benefit Mira Mesa andour contiguous communities from the greater civic empowerment that will

come from being the heart of the new city council district. An opposite impactwill be felt if Mira Mesa is divided and used piecemeal as “add-ons” to othercouncil districts.

The Redistricting Commission has a timeline of approving the final boundariesfor the city council districts by August 2011. For more information and the com-mission’s meeting schedule visit: www.sandiego.gov/redistricting.

Mitz Lee is a resident of Mira Mesa since 1983, former Vice President, Board ofEducation, San Diego Unified School District and the co-convener of the Asian & PacificAmerican Coalition (APAC). Mitz can be reached at [email protected].

Correction: The article entitled “Redistricting Could Re-Unite Mira Mesa”(January/February issue, page 8) should have stated that Mitz Lee was notinvolved in the 2000 redistricting process.

Mira Mesa - The Heart of the New Ninth City Council District

8

Mira Mesa

Miramar MCAS

KearnyMesa

Rancho Penasquitos

7(151,556)

1(157,716)

5(100,717)

8(167,129)

6(162,506)

2(172,447)

4(163,139)

3(160,904)

Data Source: *SANDAG 2010 Population and Housing Estimatewww.sandag.org

Rancho PenasquitosMira MesaMiramar MCAS

Total Population in 2010*49,89178,366

5,364

Total 140,029Kearney Mesa 6,408

Bringing the Community Together!

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Page 8: MML_March/April

The Mira Mesa Town Council (MMTC) is a volunteerorganization that works toward the improvement of the MiraMesa Community. The Mira Mesa Town Council holdsmonthly meetings that provide information to the communityand act as a forum for identifying and solving communityproblems. Elected representatives or their staff attend most

MMTC meetings, and can research and respond to issues that arise at themeetings. MMTC meetings are held at 7 PM on the first Monday of eachmonth.

The Mira Mesa Town Council sponsors many community activities andevents including:

• The Mira Mesa Street Fair, held in September• The Mira Mesa Fourth of July Celebration • Clean and Green Day• Annual Volunteer of the Year Dinner• The Verne Goodwin Scholarship for Mira Mesa community High School

Students• The Mira Mesa Maintenance Assessment District Advisory Committee

(MMMAD) that maintains landscaping along community streets.

The Mira Mesa Town Council also helps to support independent communityactivities including the Halloween Carnival, the Retired Senior VolunteerPatrol, and the Regional Teen Center.

For general information and membership, go to http://www.MiraMesaTownCouncil.org

MMTC membership costs $20 for residents, $10 for additional residentsliving in the same household, $10 for seniors (age 60+) and $50 forbusiness members. Members with addresses outside the Mira Mesacommunity will be non-voting Associate Members. Business membersnow also have the opportunity to join both the Mira Mesa Town Council andthe Mira Mesa Chamber of Commerce at a reduced rate. Businessmembers may have a business address and link to a commercial Web siteposted on this Web page.

Get Involved with Mira Mesa Town Council

Upcoming Town Council Meetings:

Dates: March 7th and April 4th

Time: 7pm to 9pm

Location: Verne Goodwin Mira Mesa Senior Center (8460 Mira Mesa Blvd, next to Epicentre)

Page 9: MML_March/April

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CUISINE OF INDIABy: Michael Gapasin

February starts a new season forthe girls of the Mira Mesa GirlsSoftball league. MMGS is a non-profit youth benefit organizationoperated totally by volunteers.The league has girls ages 5 – 14playing. This will be their 19thseason playing Amateur SoftballAssociation softball. From 1973 –1993 they were playing BobbySox softball. MMGS has a longrich tradition that includes districtand state titles in All-Star tourna-ment play. There also have beenmany girls that have gone on toplay high school and college soft-ball. MMGS plays their games atHourglass Park and other fieldsthroughout the county. In June,MMGS will be hosting the 13thannual Runway Classic tourna-ment. This tournament is a major

fundraiser for MMGS and willhave All-Star teams from all oversouthern California participating.For more information aboutMMGS please visitwww.mmgs.org.

Page 10: MML_March/April

Mira Mesa Living

By: Steve Nicoles

At the turn of the millennium,some of the best baseball playedby America’s youth was in SanDiego. For three consecutiveyears (2000-2002), San Diegobaseball teams made up of nine-year-old boys won the AAU(Amateur Athletic Union)National Championship. In 2001,the San Diego Stallions beat outother teams from all across thecountry while playing in the swel-tering sum-mer heat ofOrlando, FLat Disney’sWide Worldof SportsComplex.

Several ofthe playerson that teamwere living inMira Mesa. Their manager, ScottChambless, has lived in MiraMesa for more than 35 years.Even ten years after the champi-onship run, he remembers somedetails so vividly like he just gotoff the plane from the returnflight. Overall, he said the players’talent and the team’s familyatmosphere helped propel theStallions to a championship. Hesaid, “We became like a commu-nity. It was fun, because all thesekids were from Mira Mesa orScripps Ranch.”

Chambless and the other coachesand parents hosted parties to buildcamaraderie, but playing for oneanother only gets a team so far.These kids had talent, even asnine-year-olds. Today several play-ers are playing college ball, includ-ing Garret Hughes, who accepteda scholarship from Stanford.Winston Sawyer turned down acollege scholarship and signed aprofessional contract with MajorLeague Baseball’s BaltimoreOrioles. These athletes can lookback on that AAU team as a major

reason theyare still play-ing. DillonHaupt stillhas the ballhe caught tomake thefinal out ofthe 10-daytournamentin Orlando.Chamb l e s s

wants it, but is not getting it back.

Winning is never easy, even forkids. Chambless said some of theteams, including the team theStallions beat to win the title,brought in players from aroundthe country to help their cause:nine-year-old ringers.

While the players spent their freetime at Disney World, heremained holed up in his hotelpreparing for the next game. Hesaid, “The fun apart about this wasthat the games were so close andthey were so intense that literally

there were times Iwould come off thefield and throw upbecause of the intensi-ty of the game.”

The kids probably didnot feel the pressure asmuch. They were likelyfocused on a promiseChambless made tothem several monthsbefore the tournament.If they won, they couldshave his head. Heremembers waving theclippers from thedugout during the lastgame. Each player tooka swipe of Chambless’soon-to-be -chromeddome. Chambless said,

“You can’t be more proud of thekids that over a 10-day periodwhere they played better than theyever had and it was just amazing

how the stuff we were constantlypracticing and how hard theyworked to get to this point.”

The Stallions had the support ofteam parents to travel across thecountry. He said it is important forthe kids to have fun and workhard, and for the parents he said,“The expectation is to let the kidshave fun, let them grow in thesport. So many parents are push-ing their kids so hard that itbecomes not fun for them.”

Chambless has since walked awayfrom the field to grow his realestate business, however, he talksto his son, a member of that 2001team who just graduated fromMira Mesa High School, aboutcreating another AAU team andmaking a second run in Orlando’ssummer heat.

Photo source: Scott ChamblessPhoto editing: Wissinger Photography

The Buzz Behind Championship Motivation

By: Yazmin Hernandez

Hi Everyone! The New Year is infull swing! The Teen AdvisoryCouncil has many awesomeevents planned out, from OpenMic to a benefit concert.

It’s time to get funky. That’s right,the Teen Advisory Council isthrowing another Jam, CypherFunk, on Saturday March the19th, 5:00-10:00pm, $5.00Cover. Come and witness thebest of the Poppers and B-Boys.

For those who came to the lastJam, this one is going to be evenbetter!

I am proud to announce that theTeen Advisory Council is puttinga team together for the Relay forLife event.

Still interested in joining the TeenAdvisory Council? It’s not toolate! Contact Sigrid Batara,Youth Program Manager atEpicentre. 858-217-5636 [email protected].

page 10 to submit an article or events for publication e-mail [email protected]

Page 11: MML_March/April

TASTE OF MIRA MESAWednesday, March 30 • 6:30-8:30pm

$25/person

Place your bids for excellent gift baskets and prizes!

(For Tickets or to Donate baskets, see your local school or go to MiraMesaHighSchoolFoundation.org)

Mingle with Neighbors!A great date night…or Girls Night Out!

FREE CHILDCARE!Watch Performances by Mira Mesa Students

And Benefiting participating Mira Mesa Cluster Schools

6333 Sequence DriveSan Diego, CA 92121

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For more information, please go toMiraMesaHighSchoolFoundation.org

or call (858)692-7662

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Page 12: MML_March/April

page 12 to submit an article or events for publication e-mail [email protected]

Mira Mesa Living

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By: Steve Nicoles and Leah Singer

The 2010 Marauder team had a dream. Like anyother football team from the start, it was aboutwinning a CIF championship title. Like everyteam, but one, they came up short. But the MiraMesa Marauders made it further than any otherMarauder team in over a quarter century, whichis a dream come true in its own right.

After their CIF appearance there was no talk of asplit second that turned a fretful start at the begin-ning of the season into an invitation for theDivision 1 championship game held atQualcomm Stadium. Instead, the teammatesspoke about coming together over the course ofan otherwise tumultuous season, which they fin-ished with a 7-6 (W-L) record.

The seniors molded four years as teammates intotheir final season as a football family. MarcusSmith, Marauder wide receiver, said the playershad to lean on one another to overcome theirearly season struggles. “After we learned to trusteach other we could get things done and getsome victories,” he said.

The victories did come, but never in bunches. Justonce during the regular season the team wonconsecutive games. The team learned that it doesnot matter how the season starts, but how it fin-ishes. The Marauders had two resounding playoff

wins including a double-overtime victory win overGrossmont and a solidshut-out win over 1-ranked,top-seeded and defendingchampion Eastlake (11-1),their first defeat in 25straight games. Those twoplayoff games led to thechampionship at the ‘Q.’Marcus said, “I’ll never for-get walking through thattunnel with all my team-mates and being on thatfield together.”

ONE FAMILY, ONE PURPOSE

The 2010 Marauders are dif-ferent from almost every

other Marauder team. They made it to the cham-pionship game for the first time in 27 years. Andyet, this team is like every other team, no matterthe year or location.

Marauder Seniors Graduate with Academic and Athletic Pride

Marco Lazaro, Nathan Castro, Tyler Lehrke and Nathan Tajalle at the National Letter of Intent Signing Day. Photo source: Annette Castro.

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Bringing the Community Together!

Mira Mesa Living interviewed fivescholar-athletes along with their par-ents about how a family-centricmindset moved from the dinnertable to the field. That mindsetproved invaluable in the Maraudersrematch against Vista for the cham-pionship game. Players said it felt asif all of Mira Mesa were attendingthe home field of the San DiegoChargers to support their highschool. The following players whomwe invite you to learn more abouthave collectively earned recognitionin the San Diego Union-Tribune for2010 All-Academic and/or All-League Football Team selectees.

Marco Lazaro – Running back #22

Marco’s football success could becredited to his father who intro-duced him to youth football in theeighth grade. During his freshmanyear of high school, Marco had adream of playing football withfriends at Qualcomm Stadium.Their slogan was, “One Family, OnePurpose” to reach the Q! While inthe eighth grade, Marco’s dad, Len,introduced him to track and field,which ultimately led him to the jun-ior Olympics in the 4 x 100 relayteam where he had the opportunityto meet ex-NFL players. With his3.20 GPA, Marco is planning tostudy pre-medicalscience at eitherSan Diego StateUniversity orCalifornia StateUniversity, SanMarcos. Marcoadvises fellowscholar-athletes tonot procrastinate,and “organize yourschedule well.”Marco said reach-ing Qualcomm stadium is hisbiggest achievement.

Len and JoAnn Lazaro (Marco’s parents)

Len believes, as a parent, it is impor-tant to be involved with your child’ssports, academics and social life.This is Len’s biggest contribution forMarco’s success. “Getting involvedin sports is for the experience,” saidLen. “Living life is about creatingmemories”. JoAnn added that sportsprovided Marco with leadershipskills, which helped his sisters lookup to their brother as a good exam-ple.

Nathan Castro – OL/DL #77

Nathan is one of six siblings and didnot start playing football until hewas 15-years-old. He recentlyaccepted a full-ride scholarship toplay at Sacramento State University.Nathan is also on the track team asshot putter. His advice for futurescholar-athletes is to stay focused onschool. “If you believe you can do it,do it,” he said. “Stay humble; goodthings happen to good people.”

Annette Castro (Nathan’s mom)

Nathan’s parents were involved insports when they were younger.Nathan’s older siblings played soc-cer and football while growing up.

His motherbelieves thateven thougheveryone isbusy, theymust maketime for thekids. TheCastros areo r i g i n a l l yfrom the USPacific Islandof Guam and

relocated to Mira Mesa whenNathan was a year old. WithNathan signing up for a full scholar-ship, it is an exciting time for his

family. “Make time for your kids,”Annette advises other parents. “Talkto them and be open; be involved.”

Marcus Smith Wide receiver #10

Marcus moved to Mira Mesa whenhe was a year old. He plays basket-ball and baseball for Mira MesaHigh School. He grew up playingfootball with the same friends,whom he considers family. Duringthis past season, the team wentthrough some struggles but theylearned to trust one another, mak-ing them a stronger team. Marcushas 3.6 GPA and will attendWestern New Mexico Universitythis fall. Marcus’biggest personalachievement is“being a prettydecent footballplayer,” andplaying at the“Q.” His advicefor scholar-ath-letes, “Enjoy thetime you have.”

Tyler Lehrke – Linebacker/Tight end #6

Tyler began his football journeywith the Mira Mesa Chargers (PopWarner). He works out three timesper week with his Mira Mesa basedBMOC trainer, Don Williams a for-mer National Youth Football 2005Championship Coach. ThroughDon, Tyler has learned that hardwork pays off. Tyler signed his“Letter of Intent” to attend and playat the Naval Academy PreparatorySchool (NAPS) prior to continuingon with his education at the UnitedStates Naval Academy, AnnapolisMaryland. Tyler is a native MiraMesan with a 3.67 GPA. In addition

for advertising information call 858-335-2484 or [email protected] page 13

Nathan Tajalle, Marcus Smith, Nathan Castro and Marco Lazaroat MMHS Football Banquet. Photo source: Rowena Tajalle.

Lazaro Family at MMHS

Football Banquet

Photo source:RowenaTajalle

Marco Lazaro running againstCathedralPhoto source: JoAnn Lazaro

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page 14 to submit an article or events for publication e-mail [email protected]

Mira Mesa Livingto his athletic abilities, Tyler’s biggest personalachievement was having been selected in the 1stAcademic Team (Top Scholars) in San Diego. “Putthe hard work into it and you will be able toachieve anything you like,” said Tyler. He believeshaving a positive attitude will lead to good things.

Nathan Tajalle – Wide receiver #8

Nathan was born in San Diego and raised in MiraMesa. He became involved in sports at age fiveplaying baseball. He played flag football at 7-years-old, and tacklefootball in the 7thgrade. Nathan alsoplays baseball for MiraMesa High School. Hebegan at Mira MesaHigh School as a soph-omore, and at thattime the team’s goalwas to make it to thechampionship game atthe “Q.” With a cumu-lative 3.9 GPA,Nathan received earlyadmission to CSUFullerton and wasaccepted to theUniversity Honors Program. But his #1 choice isSan Diego State to join his older brother,Cameron, who is currently attending his second

year. Nathan’s greatest achievement is scoringthe first recorded Marauder touchdown for histeam while playing at Qualcomm Stadium. Hisadvice for future scholar-athletes is, “Be a stu-dent first and stay focused in school.”

Marvin & Rowena Tajalle (Nathan’s parents)

“This is the culmination of the senior studentshigh school football careers, however, there willbe more related growing experiences to comein their near futures,” said Marvin Tajalle.

Marvin encouragesparents of futurescholar-athletes tostay involved in yourchildren’s activities.Allow them to sharetheir thoughts andideas with you. Get toknow other familieswith like minded goalsthrough volunteerefforts within yourleagues or organiza-tion. This will allowparents to help organ-ize their busy sched-

ules and share the responsibilities of practicetimes and transportation to events. He encour-ages parents to stay committed to this full-time

endeavor because the rewards are immeasurable.Rowena’s thoughts about the championshipmatch are, “The Marauders may not have wonthe game, but they definitely won the hearts ofMira Mesa and beyond.”

No one knows for sure if any of the seniors willmove from Friday night lights to Sunday stadiums.Down the road it might not matter. They had ashining moment in high school football. While theMarauders might have come up a bit short in thechampionship game, there is no doubt the teammembers are winning in life.

Photo: Cindi MitchellTajalle family at Senior Night

Photo: Cindi MitchellNathan Tajalle –

Touchdown at Qualcomm Stadium,CIF Championship Game

Parenting Is Too Important!We have the latest information you need to know.

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Harmonium has been providing a wide variety ofCommunity-Based Services for families since 1975

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Page 15: MML_March/April

for advertising information call 858-335-2484 or [email protected] page 15

Bringing the Community Together!

Harmonium’s Yoga Club PromotesHarmony for Local Teens

Lara Eisenberg, Holistic WellnessSpecialist for Harmonium, isoffering Yoga for Wellness classesfor teens at harmonium’sEpicentre. Lara is committed tofostering positive self-image andoverall health for teens. As a for-mer School Counselor, Lara wit-nessed the debilitating effects ofchronic stress on children andteenagers. The majority of herstudents did not have copingskills to manage life’s challenges.They engaged in self- destructivebehaviors (cutting, drugs, alco-hol, fighting, smoking etc) des-perately searching for an anti-dote to stress. Lara began theYoga for Stress and Wellness pro-gram with the goal of teachingstudents how to find peace whiledeveloping skills to manage dailystressors and improve their rela-tionships while facilitating adeeper understanding of who

they are and what they want inlife. She teaches youth how tobreathe properly in order torelax their nervous system, posi-tive thinking techniques, physicalpostures to build strength, focusand concentration and other var-ious relaxation skills.

The Epicentre classes cost $5per session or at a discountedprice for a package of sessions;however, nobody will be turnedaway due to lack of funds.Several fundraisers incorporatingcommunity support will beplanned to help supplement theprogram so anyone and every-one interested in stress manage-ment and wellness can attend!Anyone interested in finding outmore about Lara’s classes, pro-grams or offerings for youth andadults may contact her at [email protected] or call858-217-5662

Harmonium Partners with Junior Achievement to

Empower Youth EntrepreneurismMira Mesa teenagers atHarmonium’s Epicentre areembarking on a youth business inpartnership with the San DiegoJunior Achievemententrepreneurship pro-gram. The teens will beguided through a 12week series of mentor-ing by volunteer busi-ness professionals in thedevelopment of an inno-vative recycled art busi-ness. Their company willcreate table decorationsfor banquets and partiesmade from usually dis-carded items that can berecycled. The JACompany program will help theteens create a business plan, electleadership roles and a Board ofDirectors, sell company stock andmarket their products. Harmoniumhas a long term goal of expandingthis model to create similar teen

businesses throughout San Diego.The plan will also include a mental& physical health screening ele-ment that will help identify the

strengths each teenmight bring to the pro-gram as well as anyarea where the teenmight need assistance.They will be marketingto the “socially con-scious” corporation,public entity or privateentertainer who wishesto combine innovativeart, environmentalawareness and supportof our youth. It is antic-ipated that product

orders will be available in earlyspring. For more information onparticipation in this program orinterest in being a product con-sumer please contact Meredith atthe Harmonium Epicentre at 858-271-5634.

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Page 16: MML_March/April

page 16 to submit an article or events for publication e-mail [email protected]

Mira Mesa Living

“Marvelous Marv” MilesReal Estate Broker

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Mason Elementary

Dear Lion Families,

Welcome back to the 2010-11 school year! We trustthat your vacation was relaxing and filled with themaking of new memories with family and friends.

Learning is an evolving process which requires mean-ingful input from all parties involved. It’s important for your child to see youinvolved in his/her education. WE NEED YOU! Please help us by volun-teering your time to help in the classrooms, on outside items and/or duringschool events. We have many projects and activities happening throughoutthe school year and we invite your participation.

We are concerned about the safety of our children. Please remember thatparents are not permitted in the parking lots during arrival and dismissal.Also, remember to obey the traffic laws when near our school.

In February we practice compassion. One synonym of compassion is sym-pathy. We don’t like to say good-bye to those who mean a lot to us so it iswith great sympathy that I tell you that one of our beloved teachers, Ms.Cheryl Mangum, passed away on January 18, 2011. Ms. Mangum, a resi-dent of Mira Mesa, has served the Mason community for many years andwill be missed tremendously. She has inspired so many children, teachersand families. She has definitely touched the future with her spirit and efforts.

Respectfully,Deidre HardsonPrincipal

Message from Carl DeMaioRecently the City Council approved a plan to begin buryingtransmission power lines from Maya Linda to ThanksgivingLane in Mira Mesa.Placing transmission lines underground not only helps beautifythe community, it will also help create more open space andcreates a safer environment for our children. Design and planning has already begun and construction willbegin early next year. My office will be monitoring this issueclosely to make sure the construction is completed in a timelyfashion. We are also compiling a list of projects and roads repairs thatare needed in the Mira Mesa community. If you are aware ofany work that needs to be done please contact my office at619-236-6655 or send emails to [email protected].

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for advertising information call 858-335-2484 or [email protected] page 17

By: Leah R. Singer

With the job market less than desirable for manycollege graduates, trade schools like MarinelloSchools of Beauty helps students earn an educa-tion and leave school as marketable and compet-itive within the beauty industry.

Marinello Schools of Beauty, located at 7550Miramar Rd., specializes in hands-on trainingwithin the areas of cosmetology, esthetics (skincare), manicuring, and massage therapy. Oneof the benefits of obtaining a license from aschool such as Marinello is that within lessthan one year, students can have a career andbegin earning an income.

There are many opportunities for our gradu-ates, said Terrilynnette Minor, Director ofMarinello Schools of Beauty. “Students can bea hairstylist. They can work for a beauty prod-uct distributor, as makeup artists, or even helpwith runway fashion and hair shows.”

One of the distinguishing features of Marinellois the onsite student salon and spa that is opento the public and pro-vides a place for the stu-dents to practice hands-on application.

“The students are super-vised by licensed profes-sionals,” said Minor. “Weoffer hair services, mani-cures and pedicures,massages, and skin care.”

Marinello also offers theunique advantage ofhaving a full-time careerservices departmentwhose sole purpose is to help place graduateswithin the industry upon graduation.

“Our outcome is for the students to be gainful-ly employed,” said Minor. “From the moment

they begin as freshmen, we work with them tobuild a portfolio. We have ongoing workshops,and we continually provide job leads.”

Just like community colleges and four-year uni-versities, Marinello is financial aid accreditedand accepts federal aid, grants and scholar-ships for tuition. Minor states that nearly 98

percent of its stu-dents are onsome type of aid.We want to makeschool affordable,she said. We wantthe out-of-pocketexpenses to bevery minimal forthe value of theeducation.

Marinello offersits own RawTalent HighS c h o o l

Scholarship in Esthetics and Cosmetology. Theschool offers high school seniors an opportuni-ty to receive as much as $10,000 towardtuition each year.

Marinello Schools of BeautyOffers Hands-on Education

Bringing the Community Together!

Senior Exhibition - A Culmination of Four Years

By: Steve Nicoles

Mira Mesa High School seniors YvonneOcampo and Nadia Almaleh are bestfriends. They met in their freshmanmath class four years ago. That friend-ship has lastedthroughout highschool and will bepart of the reasonthe two get to walkat graduation thisJune.

Every senior at MiraMesa High has tocomplete a seniorexhibition and port-folio. The work is a culmination of fouryears of high school. Teachers told Nadiaand Yvonne as freshmen to save papersfrom every class for the next four years;a daunting task for any 14-year-old.Nadia said, “Having a partner to help youget through it works the best.”

Nadia and Yvonne lean on each other tostay motivated and focused, althoughNadia admits she leans a little more.

The work includes a portfolio whichholds several writing projects includinga college essay, cover letter and a reflec-tion on a paid job, internship or volun-teer work. Nadia’s portfolio will include

a look back on her volunteer work inLouisiana following Hurricane Rita.

The other part of the project, the exhi-bition, is a 15 minute presentation infront of another student, a teacher and

a professional inSan Diego. Yvonnesays she is mostconcerned aboutgetting in front of asmall group, butthe project itself,including herPowerPoint presen-tation, should notbe hard. She said,“I think it’s easy.

We’ve been working on it since fresh-man year.”

The point of the project, according tothe girls, is to show school and commu-nity leaders how students have grownand matured throughout high school.Nadia said, “They want to know whatour goals are for after high school.”

The exhibitions start in March. Yvonneand Nadia are concerned the gradingwill be tough because there is time for asecond presentation if the first fails. Ifstudents fail, they do not get to walkwith their classmates at graduation.

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Mira Mesa Living

Mira Mesa HeroBy: Steve Nicoles

Photo source: Mike Davis

Mike Davis has always been one to give back,whether serving for a quarter century in the U.SNavy (He retired as a Lieutenant Commander)or forming Mira Mesa Heroes (www.miramesa-heroes.org), a 501(C)3 non-profit based in MiraMesa. His local work includes helping theMMTC paint several miles of barrier wallsalong Mira Mesa Blvd., funding / supportingthe electrical box painting project, beautifyingparks and schools, painting two fire stations,many community buildings and numerous sen-ior citizen trailers. Davis said, “I wanted to domore direct local support trying to make MiraMesa more of a community, so that’s why westarted Heroes.”

Davis said Heroes is about family, friends andorganizations all bringing people together for afew hours, helping the disadvantaged in ourcommunity. He said spending some qualitytime on a Saturday morning can be veryrewarding while significantly helping someoneelse. He remembers working on a 92-year old

Mira Mesa woman’strailer -it needed paint-ing. She struggled overto the door andthanked him for makingher home look nicer –especially all the folkswho don’t even knowher (over 20 volunteersthat time). Davis knowsthe woman will alwaysthink of him andHeroes each time shecomes home. It startswith one home, but hisgoal is to beautify all ofMira Mesa. He said, “Iknow we can have astronger sense of com-munity. I’d like to put us on the map as a des-tination not as a pass-through.”

Heroes can always use more help, especiallysponsors to help fund all these communityimprovement efforts. Hissense of volunteering is

growing and he intends to focus more in thebroader San Diego nonprofit community. Ofcourse, he will always be available to lend ahand in his home neighborhood.

Miramar College New ClassroomFacilities Grand Opening

More than 100 faculty, staff and students in commemorative red t-shirtsformed a “human ribbon” linking two new classroom facilities at San DiegoMiramar College on Tuesday, Feb. 22 to celebrate the buildings’ grand open-ing. Humanities & Arts and Math & Business buildings, a $34.4 million dual-classroom project funded by Propositions S and N, provide more than80,000 square feet state-of-the-art classroom space, computer, art and musiclabs. Cutting a formal ribbon were (L-R) Arts & Humanities DepartmentChair Bob Fritsch, San Diego Community College District (SDCCD) TrusteesBill Schwandt, Maria Senour and Rich Grosch, Miramar College PresidentPatricia Hsieh, SDCCD Chancellor Constance Carroll, SDCCD Facilities andManagement Vice Chancellor David Umstot, and Miramar College AcademicSenate President Daphne Figueroa.

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Page 20: MML_March/April

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Mira Mesa Living

MMCC Member Benefits• Low Membership Fee ($120 per year)• Free Farmer's Market Booth for Members (Limited Time) • No Meeting Attendance Fee for Meetings/Mixers• Member to Member Discounts

• Listing in MMCC Business Directory on Site• Your detailed business data included with contact information • Chamber marketing of your business via programs such as

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HomeTown BuffetHuynh Law Office, PCIN2IT NutritionKiwanisLeah Singer, Writing and MarketingSpecialistLoving HutMagical Moments Professional DJMarvin Miles, Real Estate BrokerMira Mesa High SchoolMira Mesa High School FoundationMira Mesa Shopping CenterMira Mesa Town CouncilMira Mesa Women's ClubMission Federal Credit Union

Pacific Marine Credit UnionRC RealtyRobek's JuiceSan Diego Self StorageSandy Smith, Real Estate BrokerSan Diego Executive Lions ClubSan Diego Miramar CollegeSan Diego Town PlannerSteve Pearson, CPATom's Master MechanicsUnion BankUS Bank - Albertson'sUS Bank - Ralph's Shopping CenterVulcan MaterialsWoodfin HotelAnd more…..

Chamber Meetings/Mixers Upcoming Dates:March 15th and April 20th; Social 5:30pm, Meeting 6:00pm

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“Marvelous Marv” Miles Beautifies Mira MesaBy: Leah R. Singer

Marv Miles’ commitment to the com-munity of Mira Mesa began in 1989when he was determined to clear ablock-long street of a dozen illegally-parked vehicles. He enlisted the help ofthe Mira Mesa Community Pride, whichwas part of the Mira Mesa TownCouncil. More than 20 years later, Milesis still working to beautify and better theMira Mesa community.

Miles is well known for being a commu-nity member who has helped eliminateneighborhood graffiti. In thepast few years, everySunday morning, he andfour other residents spendan hour together paintingover graffiti and tagging.Miles began this endeavorin 1993 and he still enjoysthis weekly ritual. Thisgroup has painted over12,000 feet of walls andfences along the majorstreets in Mira Mesa.

However, Miles doesn’t seethis activity as about graffiti. “It’s aboutfriendship,” he said. “It’s the five of us get-ting together to talk about our lives, fam-ilies and the community. It’s a great syn-ergy of all these people who wanted tomake the Mira Mesa community better.”

In addition to painting the streets eachweek, Miles has served since 1994 asthe president (and primary fundraiser)for the Retired Senior Volunteer Patrol(RSVP). This program has logged morethan 155,000 volunteer hours for MiraMesa and Scripps Ranch.

Miles has been president of the ScrippsMesa Fireworks Foundation since 1997when he stepped in to help raise moneyfor the community July 4th fireworksdisplay. He’s also been a volunteer andmajor financial donor for MonsterManor, the Halloween haunted house

that was estab-lished to raisemoney for theMira Mesa July4th celebration.

He has helpedMira Mesa’sbusinesses growas well. Miles hasbeen a memberof the Mira Mesa

Planning Groupfor more than 20

years. His most notable achievements inthat organization were helping to creat-ed the Mira Mesa market center (hometo the movie theater, Barnes and Noble,and Home Depot), as well as establishthe Best Buy across the street. Miles is

also the president of the Mira MesaChamber of Commerce.

When Miles is not helping Mira Mesa,he creates blown and fused glass withthe Art Glass Association of SouthernCalifornia. He’s also very involved in theSan Diego Woodies, which hosts theworld’s largest woodie car shows inEncinitas each September.

“I remember wanting a woodie back insnowy New York in 1962,” Miles recalls.“The Beach Boys were signing aboutsand, surf, sun and woodies.” In 2004,Miles fulfilled a lifelong dream of own-ing a woodie, which he has since remod-eled and given a new engine.

When he’s not beautifying the streetsand raising money for important localcauses, Miles is the “real” Mr. Mira Mesa,serving as a real estate broker forProperty Gallery. He enjoys real estate,especially as he now helps several sec-ond generations of families purchasehomes.

Miles community efforts have not goneunrecognized. He was named Volunteerof the Year from the Mira Mesa TownCouncil in 1997; Scripps Ranch Citizenof the Year in 2004; and was inductedinto the Scripps Ranch Volunteer Hall ofFame in 2009.

Marv & his wife, Pam, enjoyed High Tea in EmpressHotel at Victoria, BC.. Photo souce: Marv Miles

Marv & his WoodiePhoto souce: Marv Miles

Page 21: MML_March/April

On top of the ups and downs of planning yourperfect wedding, arranging a honeymoon caninitially seem like a daunting task. There is somuch pressure to make it the perfect trip, andmany couples today aretrying to get creative withwhere to spend their firstdays as husband and wifetogether. However, thereare few places moreromantic to begin yourmarried lives together thanHawaii. It is a popularhoneymoon destination tobe sure, but that doesn’tmean it should beoverlooked!

Hawaii offers so many conveniences and perksthat many other locations are lacking. With itsincredible beaches, amazing weather, and relaxedlifestyle, Hawaii is the ideal place to unwind andenjoy time with your new spouse. Nowhere elsein the world is the spirit of Aloha felt more clearlythan on the Hawaiian islands. It has something tooffer everyone; from those who want to fill theirdays with exciting excursions around the beautifulislands, all the way to those who would enjoynothing more than relaxing in the warm sun andlistening to the gentle waves. Hawaii has been atrendy destination for years, but no time is betterthan now to discover all the treasures the islandshave to offer.

If you are looking for a place to unwind and getinto the true Hawaiian spirit, the Makena Beach& Golf Resort on Maui is second to none. It istucked away in a prime location; only a quick

drive from the excitementof Wailea but secludedenough to allow guests tofeel as if they are in a secretparadise. Situated rightbetween the gorgeousbeach and the impressiveslopes of Mount Haleakala,the sights at Makena willtruly take your breathaway.

Romance is never far awaywhen you are at Makena

Resort. An Atrium Garden located at the centerof the property is the perfect place to relax withyour spouse, whilebeing surrounded bysoothing waterfalls andvibrant Koi fish. Everyroom has abreathtaking view ofthe Pacific and a privateLanai, perfect for warmHawaiian nights. Plus,Makena is offering anunbeatable four nightRomance Package!You and your spousewill be welcomed withdelicious chocolatecovered strawberries, andreceive a scrumptious breakfast for two eachmorning. On top of that, no one will be able toresist an ocean front couple’s massage. Whetheryou are looking for white sandy beaches, afantastic golf course and tennis club, or relaxingmassages by the ocean, the Makena Beach &Golf Resort has exactly what you’re looking forand more.

If Oahu is your destination, Turtle Bay Resort isan absolute must-see. Nowhere else can youfind almost five miles of gorgeous beach frontproperty split amongst three quaint bays; KawelaBay, Bay View Beach Lawn, and Turtle Bay. Oneof the 443 lovely beach cottages is waiting foryou! This resort offers a bit of everything, withtwo pools, two golf courses, tennis courts,horseback riding, hiking and mountain bike trails,and a surfing school—just to name a few! In fact,if surfing is something you’re looking for, this isthe perfect location. Nearby are the legendarysurf spots like Sunset Beach, the Banzai Pipeline,and Waimea Bay. Plus, do not forget delicious

dining and diverse shopping to fit any taste. It isimpossible to run out of things to do at TurtleBay.

Once again, this resort has just what you arelooking for in terms of romance. The diversescenery makes enjoying one another’s companyas easy as basking in the warm sand and pleasantbreeze. The North Shore Romance Package isthe perfect way to combine Turtle Bay’s manyactivities with a truly special experience for youand your spouse. The package includes a dailybreakfast buffet, refreshing sparkling wine pairedperfectly with the resort’s delicious TuxedoStrawberries, a nightly turn down service, and aconvertible car rental—perfect for soaking upthose Hawaiian sun rays.

Whether you are looking on Maui or Oahu,these two resorts are the best of the best.

Amidst the stressful weddingand honeymoon planningstages, your mind can be putcompletely at ease knowingthat you will be staying at sucha luxurious location. Throwyour cares to the wind andunwind in the most gorgeouslandscape in the world. Butdon’t forget, Hawaii offers thebest of both worlds. There isa plethora of activities to suitall preferences; from surfingand snorkeling to hiking and

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page 22 to submit an article or events for publication e-mail [email protected]

Mira Mesa Living

March & April Holiday CalendarBy: Leah R. Singer

Songkran Songkran is the traditional Thai New Year festival.The four-day festival begins with Maha SongkranDay, which marks the end of the old year. On thelast day of the festival, Wan Parg-bpee, ancestorsand elders are honored by small amounts of scent-ed lustral water poured on their heads. TraditionalThai dishes served during Songkran are Pad ThaiNoodles; Khao Chae (rice dish); Gaeng KiewWahn Gai (chicken with green curry); Kanom Tom(sticky rice and mung bean balls piled high into apyramid shaped dessert); and Kanom Krok(coconut rice pancakes).

Carnival Carnival is a four-day celebration that beginsSaturday, March 5 and commences on “FatTuesday.” While Rio de Janeiro is seen as theCarnival Capital of the World, the festival is cele-brated in towns and villages throughout Brazil andother Catholic countries. Carnival began as a wayto embrace excess and have parties before themore reflective period of Lent. Carnival typicallyinvolves a parade with elements of circus, masks,and public street parties.

Mardi Gras Mardi Gras and its festival celebrations are similarto Carnival. This traditional New Orleans celebra-tion takes place on “Fat Tuesday,” the day before“Ash Wednesday” and the beginning of Lent.

Passover Passover is the eight-day Jewish festival that cele-brates the Israelites freedom from slavery inancient Egypt. What marks the Passsover holidayis the seder, which is the traditional dinner andsymbols that includes the recounting of the Jewishjourney of freedom. Perhaps one of the most well-known facts about Passover is the eating of matzoto honor the Israelites who, while escaping Egypt,had no time to let their bread rise. For this reason,Jews eat unleavened products during the holidayof Passover.

Information for this article was compiled from: www.newyearsfestival.com

and www.rio-carnival.net.

MARCH5 Carnival begins8 Fat Tuesday,

Mardi Gras Begins9 Ash Wednesday

(beginning of Lent)17 St. Patrick’s Day

APRIL13 Songkran,

Thai New Years18 Passover begins

(sundown)24 Easter22 Earth Day

Page 23: MML_March/April

for advertising information call 858-335-2484 or [email protected] page 23

Bringing the Community Together!

Meditation : an enrichment to your soulBy: Jenny Barrett

The word meditation is derivedfrom two Latin words: meditari (toexercise the mind) and mederi (toheal). Its Sanskrit derivation 'med-ha' means wisdom. Meditation is aholistic discipline by which thepractitioner attempts to getbeyond the reflexive "thinking"mind into a deeper state of relax-ation or awareness.

Many years ago meditation wasnot considered to be meant formodern people, but now it hasbecome very popular. Publishedscientific and medical evidence hasproved its benefits both mentallyand physically. With regular prac-tice of a balanced series of tech-niques, the energy of the body andmind can be liberated and thequality of consciousness can beexpanded. This has been shownby an empirical fact. Many profes-

sional athletes regularly employmeditation methods. Studies havefound a direct correlation betweenmeditation and the performancelevel of sports professionals.Meditation strengthens the mind;it comes under control and is ableto provide effective guidance tothe physical body to effectivelyexecute all its projects.

Meditation and concentration areboth very important to yoga prac-tice. In the ancient texts called theYoga Sutras, compiled by Patanjali,he speaks about the eight limbs ofyoga. The seventh limb of yoga isdhyana, a Sanskrit word meaningmeditation. Meditation refers to amental or spiritual state that maybe attained by such practices, andmay also refer to the practice ofthat state.

Yoga, for example, is a movingmeditation that joins the body and

mind together. The breath is theforce that links the two togetherand ultimately gives the student agreater since of self and a healthyand happier state of well-being. Ifthe body is happy, then the mindis happy and vice versa. FourSeasons Yoga's class scheduleoffers many different classes for

beginners and gentle hatha to getstudents started on their journey togood health both mentally andphysically. They also offer Vinyasaand Ashtanga Yoga classes forthose who wish to practice at afaster pace. The class schedule canbe found online: www.fourseason-syoga.com

7160 Miramar Rd. #116 • fourseasonsyoga.com1.5 blocks west of the Pyramid • San Diego • 858-586-1672

1ST WEEK

FREE!Classes 7 Days A Week - See Our Schedule Online!New students only. Expires 4/30/11

CLASSIFIEDSMira Mesa LivingMira Mesa Living

To place your classifed advertisement call (858) 335-2484 or email: [email protected]

For more information, email us at

[email protected]

Classified Ads Only $20!

Tom’s Master Mechanics – Since 1981We fix foreign, domestic & Hybrids

Focus on driveability issues5820 Auto Part Mall (858) 450-9494

Carpentry and Cabinetry ServicesNew Doors - Drawers - Roll Outs

Crown Molding and DrywallCall Rob at 858-254-6893

“I can fix that!” – Steve StutsmanMultimedia, Networking

Complete Custom built [email protected] (858) 566-0066

A Love To Dance • Ballet-Modern • Jazz-Lyrical-Funky • Hula-Tahitian • Dance-Fitness 9272 Mirimar Rd.alovetodance.com 858-622-0502

Primal Training Center9811 Mira Mesa Blvd.

858-530-0990Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Kids Self Defense ~

One Week Free Training

Gift Giving Made Easy! Ribbon GiftCollection Card Easy to Budget and togive the gift they want! Choose from 20

to 40 gifts in each price category.Order at DenbyWellness.Com or call

Tracee 858-220-5566Independent Business Owner - Amway

Surfaces USA provides all of your natural stone and tile materials for

your home remodeling project. Check out www.SurfacesUSA.com.

Call 858-412-7969

Slithering companions looking fora lovable home. Some for adoption

and some for sale. Call 619-933-1213 for more information.

Mama Bear's Pet Sitting, Dog Walkingand Overnight Care available in the

comfort of your pets own home. Insured and Bonded.

Member of PetSit USA. 858-205-2335

Lewis Plumbing – 65 yrs experience“Quality work for a fair price”

(858) 752-9225See coupons inside Mira Mesa Living

SAVE UP TO 50% on your next vacationto Hawaii, Mexico, Caribbean

Call [email protected]

Pet Sitting ServiceGifts

TRAVEL

PLUMBING SERVICE

PETSAuto Repair

Computer Repair

Fitness

Home Remodeling

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Page 24: MML_March/April

Businesses Serving the Mira Mesa Community

Businesses! Advertise and Show Your Love to the Community for As Low As $50 a month!

Display Your Graduation Announcement/Message in May/June issue for only $20!

MiraMesaLiving.com

Ashoka the Great, Cuisine of India

9474 Black Mountain Rd.

Callahan’s Pub &Brewery

8111 Mira Mesa Blvd.

Champ’s Pub & Deli7040 Miramar Rd.

Christ the CornerStone

9028 Westmore Rd.

Endodontics, Dr. Gary Car DDS

6235 Lusk Blvd.

Happy Nails of MiraMesa

10760 Westview Parkway

In2It Nutrition6755 Mira Mesa Blvd., Suite 124

MCAS MiramarJoint Reception Center, Library,Lincoln Housing Office andFamily Practice Clinic.

Mira Mesa Chamber ofCommerce

Mira Mesa Farmer’sMarket

Mira Mesa High School Foundation Booth

Miramar CollegeLibrary

Mira Mesa Library8405 New Salem Street

Mira Mesa Senior Center

8460 Mira Mesa Blvd.

Mira Mesa TownCouncil

MJ’s Deli6450 Luck Blvd.

Plaza Wine and Spirits6755 Mira Mesa Blvd., Suite125

Postal Annex10606 Camino Ruiz, Suite 8

Property Gallery9396 Mira Mesa Blvd.

RC Realty8250 Mira Mesa Blvd. Ste B

Robeks8250 Mira Mesa Blvd. Ste. C

SD United SportsTraining Center

7698 Miramar Road

Salon Renaissance6440 Lusk Blvd. #D104

Sorrento Valley Dental Group

5915 Mira Mesa Blvd.

Starbucks6765 Mira Mesa Blvd.Suite 149

Tom’s MasterMechanics

5820 Autoport Mall

Category Businesses/Organizations Coupon/Offers Page

Bank Pacific Marine Credit Union Yes 13

Carpentry & Cabinetry Carpentry and Cabinetry Services 23Car Repair Tom's Master Mechanics Yes 3Chiropractor Anderson Chiropractic Yes 12Laser Treatment/Massage and Wellness CenterDance A Love To Dance 23Day Care Christ the Cornerstone Academy 16Fitness Primal Training Center 23Food Taste of Mira Mesa 11Food Ashoka the Great, Cuisine of India Yes 9Food Chibugan Yes 7Food Extreme pita Yes 18Food Loving Hut Yes 15Food Robeks Yes 7Food Watami sushi Yes 9Home Remodeling Surfaces USA Yes 5Liquor Store/Lottery Plaza Wine & Spirits 7Organizations Mira Mesa Town Council 8Organizations Mira Mesa Chamber of Commerce 20Organizations Harmonium 15Pet Sitting Mama Bear's Pet Sitting, Dog Walking and Overnight Care 23Photographer Brengel Productions 22Plumber Lewis plumbing Yes 6Realtor Sandy Smith 4Realtor Marv Miles 16School Marinello Schools of Beauty 17School Miramar college 19Travel Ask About Travel Yes 21Yoga Four Seasons Yoga Yes 23

To Advertise –[email protected]

To submit articles, news and events –

[email protected]

To Contact the Publisher –[email protected]

or call 858-335-2484

To Join Mira Mesa Cultural Group –

[email protected]

Our Volunteers deliver Mira Mesa Living at the door steps in their neighborhood. We also have pickup locations throughout Mira Mesa community (Sorrento Valley, Mira Mesa and MCAS Miramar):

Calendar of EventsTown Council Meeting

March 7 • 7-9pmApril 4 • 7-9pm

Mira Mesa ChamberMixer/Meeting

March 15 • 5:30pmApril 20 • 5:30pmVarious locations . Check online:www.miramesachamber.com

MMHS Senior ExhibitionsMarch 16Mira Mesa High School

Cypher FunkMarch 19 • 5-10pm$5 at The Epicentre

Rummage SaleMarch 19 • 7am-12pmCorner of Mira Mesa Blvd. & Reagan Rd.Support MMHS Class of 2011

Mira Mesa Youth Football & CheerRegistration

March 19 • April 17 • June 4Mira Mesa Rec Center

Exchange Club Searchfor Talent

March 26 • 1pmMasonic Lodge on Front Streetwww.xcsd.org/s4t

Taste of Mira MesaMarch 30 • 6:30-8:30pmGEN-PROBE6333 Sequence Drive, 92121

Earth DayApril 22 • Qualcomm

MMHS Golf TournamentMay 19 • 12-4:30pmDoubletree Golf Resort