PACIFIC San Diego Magazine, April 2018

BRODY JENNER

APRIL 7 AT HARD ROCK HOTEL SAN DIEGO

SCORE

PADRES SEASON IS BACK IN FULL SWING

A HOPPIN’ NEW GASLAMP SPOT, A FLESH-FILLED BLIND DATE, 150+ CONCERTS, EVENTS AND MOVIE OPENINGS APRIL 2018

PACIFICSANDIEGO.COM

TULLAMORE DEW IRISH WHISKEY®, 40% Alc./Vol. (80 Proof) ©2018 Imported by William Grant & Sons, Inc. New York, NY.

GLASSES UP TO DRINKING RESPONSIBLY.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Home Field Advantage

Volume #12 | Issue #04 | April 2018

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / DIGITAL DIRECTOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Ah, spring is in the air, and with it comes one of my favorite times of the year — baseball season.

There’s nothing quite like throwing on a baseball cap and heading out to catch a ball game. And, in San Diego we are lucky enough to have one of the premier fields in all of the Major Leagues to root for the home team.

Not willing to shell out the bucks for seats behind home plate? No worries. Grab a swatch of grass near the Park at the Park for a more low-key experience.

And, regardless of where you sit, be sure to save plenty of time to enjoy the ballpark fare. Of all the MLB fields I’ve visited (which isn’t a vast amount, but a good enough sample size to pass judgment), Petco Park brings its ‘A’ game when it comes to food and drink options. Grab a burger from Hodad’s, some Cardiff Crack nachos from Seaside Market or pick up a healthier option like grilled fish from Blue Water Seafood Marked and Grill (a new addition to the park this season). Wash it all down with a huge selection of San Diego craft beers, margaritas or micheladas.

With the recent signing of All-Star MVP, World Series champ and first baseman and Eric Hosmer this year, the Padres are showing that they mean business. Check out “On Fire” (page 58) to see what else the 2018 season has in store.

See you at the games, San Diego.

Play Ball!

MANAGING EDITOR DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY COPY EDITOR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

EDITORIAL INTERN

PUBLISHER

Leslie Hackett leslie@pacificsandiego.com

ON THE RADAR For the first time, a professional rugby league, Major League Rugby, will launch in the U.S. — and San Diego will host one of its seven teams. Home games will be held at Torero Stadium at USD with all games being broadcast through either CBS Sports Network or ESPN. San Diego will even play host to the league’s first championship game in July.

Watch out for San Diego native Gil Covey (pictured) as he and his SD Legion teammates take to the pitch in a sport that was called “a hooligans’ game played by gentleman” by Winston Churchill.

Find the Legion’s April schedule on page 24 and learn more at sdlegion.com.

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VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

Leslie Hackett Kenny Boyer Jennifer Ianni John McCutchen Monica Hodes-Smail Kevin Acee, Michael Benninger, Lisa Deaderick, James Hebert, Pam Kragen, Scott McDonald, Peter Rowe K.C. Alfred, David Brooks, Nelvin C. Cepeda, Jared Gase, Adam Hahn, Arlene Ibarra, Alejandro Tamayo Stacy Marquez

David Perloff Paul Ingegneri

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MULTIMEDIA ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

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CONTENTS APRIL 2018

CURRENTS 18 Spotted: San Diego Where locals were seen in March 20 Four.Eighteen Events calendar 32 Laughing Stock April stand-up comedy shows PULSE 38 Art Beat April gallery & exhibition openings 46 Curtain Calls April performing arts preview 50 The Reel Deal April motion picture preview FEATURE 58 On Fire Padres will look to new blood, farm system full of ‘hot lava talent’ to kick-off entertaining 2018 season TASTE 64 Hare We Go Again See what’s hoppin’ at the Gaslamp’s newest hotspot, Volcano Rabbit 68 Take it From the Tap A monthly taste of beer from here 70 Full Plate April food and drink events GROOVE 74 Sounds Like a Plan April concert calendar 86 Take a Spin Upcoming EDM and DJ performances LOVE 88 Throne Together Daters enjoy the royal treatment before a risqué revue

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ON THE COVER: Brody Jenner is bringing the beats with a DJ set at the Hard Rock’s Sunburn Pool Lounge on April 7.

See how you can win a prize package for his performance on page 87.

See story, page 50.

ON THIS PAGE: First baseman Eric Hosmer was signed by the Padres to an eight year, $144 million contract.

See story, page 58.

(Photo by K.C. Alfred).

AD O P T. FO STE R . V OL U N TE ER . www.paws4thoughtrescue.com | 323-363-4129 |

 /PAWS4thoughtrescue

AG AV E

E X P R ESS I O N I S M

PLEASE ENJOY MILAGRO RESPONSIBLY. Milagro Tequila, 40% Alc./Vol. (80 Proof) ©2016 William Grant & Sons, Inc. New York, NY.

M IL AG R O

MEANS

MI RACLE

WHO MAKES SAN DIEGO’S BEST MARGARITA? Don’t take it with a grain of salt. Cast your vote as dozens of the city’s top bars compete in the fourth annual Margarita Month.

Order, hashtag, repeat for a chance to win up to $3,000 in gift certificates ($100/bar).

¡No Manches!, The Rabbit Hole’s esteemed entry into 2017’s Margarita Month competition, is made with Milagro Reposado Tequila, passion fruit, house-made margarita mix (lemon, lime, guava), agave nectar, triple sec and house-made citrus salt (orange, lemon/lime zest). #rabbitholesd #margaritamonth

#MARGARITAMONTH • MARGARITAMONTH.COM

Hendrick’s Gin Proud Partner of Concours d’Elegance • April 6-8, 2018

Spotted: San Diego

CRSSD San Diego’s Waterfront Park set the scene for CRSSD, the annual celebration of dance and electronic music. Honey Dijon, Kyle Watson, Gorgon City, Empire of the Sun and more performed over the weekend of March 3 and 4. Photos by Arlene Ibarra and Adam Hahn.

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APRIL 2018 @PACIFICSD

San Diego Half Marathon & 5K Runners pounded the pavement through central San Diego with an epic ending at Petco Park for the San Diego Half Marathon & 5K on March 11. Photos

by Jared Gase

Best Coast Beer Fest San Diegans kept it classy (despite the rain) at the Best Coast Beer Fest at Embarcadero Park South on March 10.

Photos by Jared Gase

See more photos of San Diego’s best events at pacificsandiego.com.

@PACIFICSD

APRIL 2018

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CURRENTS WHAT’S HAPPENING RIGHT NOW

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

WANDERLUST 2018 4.14 Liberty Station, Point Loma, wanderlust.com Listen to nationally recognized teachers, speakers and musical talent as part of this mindful triathlon that combines a 5K, DJed yoga sessions and guided meditation.

PHOTO BY AMANDA VANVELS

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CURRENTS | EVENTS

SOUTH BAY EARTH DAY 4.7 Chula Vista Marina, Chula Vista, chulavistaca.gov South County’s largest Earth Day celebration returns with even more merchants and activities, including a plethora of products and services to help people reduce their impact on Mother Earth while simultaneously saving some loot.

PHOTO BY HAYNE PALMOUR IV

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4.6-7 REEBOK RAGNAR SOCAL Coastal trails from Huntington Beach to San Diego Bay, runragnar.com Round up five or 11 fellow maniacs for this insane, overnight relay race that starts in Orange County and ends at the Embarcadero downtown.

4.6-8 LA JOLLA CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE La Jolla Cove, La Jolla, lajollaconcours.com Feast your eyes on sports cars, Woodies and hundreds of other classic wheels from around the world at this upscale auto show overlooking La Jolla’s coast.

4.6-8 GOODGUYS 18TH MEGUIAR’S DEL MAR NATIONALS Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar good-guys.com Check out more than 2,500 hot rods, muscle cars and other custom jobs at this competitive car event that includes live music, vendor exhibits and a burnout challenge.

4.7 IRONMAN 70.3 Throughout Oceanside, ironman.com Swim across Oceanside Harbor, bike along the coastline to San Clemente and back, then run along The Strand, where miles of sand lie between you and the finish line.

Piece of cake, right?!

4.7-8 JULIAN GOLD RUSH DAYS Julian Farm and the Julian Mining Company, Julian, visitjulian.com Celebrate the discovery of gold in Julian and learn more about the mountain community’s history during this free, weekend-long festival that includes gold panning, tomahawk-throwing and candledipping, among other attractions.

4.8 10TH ANNUAL CAMPAGNOLO GRAN FONDO Various routes around San Diego County sdgranfondo.com Choose a 20-, 34-, 60-, or 101-mile route for this 2-day cycling celebration that features food, a fitness expo and a beer garden on San Diego’s stunning waterfront.

4.13 VAVI DAY AT PETCO PARK Petco Park, East Village, govavi.com Join other members of the city’s leading sport and social club for a Padres game that includes upgraded seating, a free drink ticket plus epic pre- and post-game parties.

30TH ANNUAL AMERICA’S SCHOONER CUP 4.7 San Diego Bay, sdmaritime.org Eight to 10 stunning schooners from across Southern California and the Pacific Northwest will face off at this charity regatta.

PHOTO BY HOWARD LIPIN

4.13-14 PINNERS CONFERENCE Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar pinnersconference.com Attend any of more than 100 Pinterestbased classes at this DIY expo boasting some of the country’s top artists and crafters.

4.14 SAN DIEGO BEACH & BAY HALF MARATHON 5K & 8K Throughout Mission Bay sandiegobeachandbayhalfmarathon.com Behold some of San Diego’s most stunning beaches, bays and resorts on a sea-level course of your choice, then cap it off with a finish-line celebration touting live music, a beer garden and plenty of snacks to go around.

4.14 THE PULSE DANCE EXPERIENCE “BATTLE ROYALE” SHOWCASE Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine, La Jolla choreographinglives.org It’s time to bring it on for this competition that gives dancers a chance to show off their skills in the hopes of advancing to the Las Vegas finals. A VIP Cocktail Hour provides a chance to mix and mingle with celebrity choreographers like Cris Judd, Ian Eastwood, Dean Lee and more.

4.15 WALK AGAINST HATE AND DIVERSITY EXPO Liberty Station, Point Loma, classy.org Don’t miss the inaugural year for this AntiDefamation League event, which highlights the diverse tapestry of San Diego’s schools, businesses and communities.

4.14 TOUR DE CURE Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar diabetes.org Walk, run or cycle in support of finding a cure for diabetes, a disease that affects more than 100 million people in the United Stat.

4.15 DAY AT THE DOCKS Sportfishing Landings, Point Loma sportfishing.org Look forward to historical displays, how-to seminars and casting contests at the West Coast’s famously fun (and free) celebration of sportfishing.

@PACIFICSD

APRIL 2018

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CURRENTS | EVENTS

Sports PADRES HOME GAMES

4.2-5 VS. COLORADO ROCKIES 4.12-15 VS. SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS 4.16-18 VS. LOS ANGELES DODGERS 4.27-29 VS. NEW YORK METS

GULLS HOME GAMES

4.7 VS. ONTARIO REIGN 4.11 VS. TUCSON ROADRUNNERS

SD LEGION HOME GAMES 4.7 FAN FEST 4.29 VS. UTAH WARRIORS

SD Legion’s Ryan Matyas of Tucson was one of the first players signed to the inaugural team.

Photo by Nelvin C. Cepeda

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APRIL 2018 @PACIFICSD

4.15 22ND ANNUAL TRITON 5K + FESTIVAL UCSD campus, La Jolla 5k.ucsd.edu Run, walk or stroll in support of future changemakers during this scenic, 3.1-mile trek through the heart of UCSD’s campus.

4.18 CAJON CLASSIC CRUISE OPENING DAY Prescott Promenade, downtown El Cajon cajonclassiccruise.org Thousands of car fanatics from across Southern California descend upon downtown El Cajon for the April kickoff to the weekly Wednesday evening events that run through October.

4.20 BAYKED BY THE BAY Embarcadero Marina Park North, downtown baykedsd.com Celebrate 4/20 during this inaugural event celebrating music (with a performance by Wyclef Jean), munchies and cannabis culture — although legally, no marijuana is allowed at the event.

4.21 SAN DIEGO COUNTY CREDIT UNION WALK MS: SAN DIEGO 2018 Liberty Station, Point Loma nationalmssociety.org Do your part to end multiple sclerosis once and for all by walking with friends, loved ones and co-workers to change the world for everyone affected by this debilitating disease.

4.21 INAUGURAL TEMECULA BLUES FESTIVAL Civic Center Plaza, Old Town Temecula temeculabluesfestival.com Eight bluesy bands comprise the lineup for this first-year, rain-or-shine event, which will also showcase some of the neighborhood’s most notable food vendors.

pacificrimfest.com Celebrate some of the Pacific Rim’s many cultures and countries during this free community event featuring food, live music, workshops and demonstrations.

4.21 16TH ANNUAL CREEK TO BAY CLEANUP Sites throughout San Diego County creektobay.org Join more than 6,500 volunteers at 100+ locations to help remove litter and otherwise beautify San Diego’s various waterfronts.

4.21 48TH CHICANO PARK DAY CELEBRATION Chicano Park, Logan Heights chicano-park.com This free, family-friendly event includes traditional music, Aztec indigenous dances, a lowrider car show, plus performances by ballet folklórico groups and numerous live bands.

4.21-22 CORONADO FLOWER SHOW Spreckels Park, Coronado coronadoflowershow.com Feast your eyes on flowers — and save the rest of your senses for the food pavilion and beer and wine garden — at this floral affair.

4.22 EARTHFAIR 2018 Throughout Balboa Park earthdayweb.org Sixty-thousand visitors and 300 exhibitors earn this event the title of the world’s largest, free annual environmental fair.

4.24-26 MTC EXPO Hilton San Diego Bayfront, downtown mtcshow.com Make 2018 your company’s most profitable year yet by attending this educational expo that exists at the intersection of media, technology and commerce.

4.21 NINTH ANNUAL BOOB RIDE Fletcher Cove Park, Solana Beach theboobride.org Bike for boobs at this fundraising event supporting breast-cancer patients, then cheers to your ride at Tidewater Tavern during the event’s after-party.

4.21 2ND ANNUAL PACIFIC RIM FESTIVAL Bayside Park, Chula Vista

4.27 OUT AT THE PARK Petco Park, East Village padres.com San Diego Pride teams up with the Padres to take on the Mets in an evening punctuated with performances by the San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus and the San Diego Women’s Chorus.

4.27-29 54TH ANNUAL LAKESIDE RODEO Lakeside Rodeo and Arena and Facility, Lakeside lakesiderodeo.com Get ready for bullriding, barrel-racing, bronc riding, Stetsons and cowboy boots during three full days of edge-of-your-seat rodeo action.

4.28 22ND ANNUAL BARRIO LOGAN GRAND PRIX Throughout Barrio Logan sdbc.org Professional bicycle racers and top-level amateurs compete along the streets of Barrio Logan in one of SoCal’s largest cycling events.

4.28 LINDA VISTA MULTICULTURAL FAIR & PARADE 6900 Block of Linda Vista Road, Linda Vista lindavistafair.org Promoting cultural awareness and understanding throughout San Diego, this year’s event will include several cultural exhibits, various ethnic food offerings and artistic performances.

4.28 GOLDEN OPTIMISTIKI MARKET & LUAU Bali Hai, Shelter Island pointlomaoptimist.com This charity event benefiting Peninsulaarea youth is set to include the musical stylings of APE, Millionaire Beach Bums, Tikitronic, DJ Glen the Mack and Kitten on the Keys.

4.27 BLOOM BASH San Diego Museum of Art, Balboa Park sdmart.org The opening celebration for Art Alive weekend — when more than 100 museum pieces will be interpreted as floral arrangements — is set to include illuminated art installations, scrumptious treats and floral-infused custom cocktails, among other tasteful touches.

4.28 ADAMS AVENUE UNPLUGGED Adams Avenue, Normal Heights adamsavenuebusiness.com With more than 100 performances across 30 stages, Normal Heights’ signature walkabout showcases some of the best acoustic artists San Diego has to offer.

@PACIFICSD

APRIL 2018

25

CURRENTS | EVENTS

LA JOLLA SHORES 5K RUN/WALK 4.22

La Jolla Shores, inmotionevents.com This scenic and hilly course follows the last 3.1 miles of the La Jolla half-marathon course, beginning near Scripps Pier and winding through La Jolla Shores before wrapping up at the Cove.

PHOTO BY RICH CRUSE

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APRIL 2018 @PACIFICSD

CURRENTS | EVENTS 4.28 FIFTH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO SHAKA FEST Crown Point Park, Mission Bay sandiegoshakafest.com Hawaiian culture, arts and athletics collide at this unique event featuring a SUP race, a youth-only canoe regatta and several stages of authentic, island-inspired entertainment.

4.28-29 ARTWALK Throughout Little Italy artwalksandiego.org Get lost amid 17 blocks of art in this annual event attended by thousands of artists and aficionados.

4.28-29 ENCINITAS STREET FAIR

SIXTH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO COMIC FEST 4.20-22 Town & Country Resort, Mission Valley, sdcomicfest.org Following a Frankenstein theme this year (in honor of the book’s 200th anniversary), this geeky gathering includes panels, an artists’ alley, plus plenty of cosplayers enjoying a more intimate experience than that convention in July offers.

PHOTO BY NANCEE E. LEWIS

South Coast Highway 101, Encinitas visitencinitas.org Browse through more than 450 distinct food, arts and crafts vendors, then flit among four stages of entertainment at this family-friendly festival that also boasts a beer garden for offspring-free adults.

4.29 AWESOME ’80S RUN De Anza Cove, Mission Valley awesome80srun.com Travel back in time and dress up as your favorite ’80s celeb or cartoon character for this fun run/walk/skate in which participants receive a Rubix Cube finisher medal.

4.29 28TH ANNUAL MOTOR CARS ON MAIN STREET

PARTY LIKE GATSBY 4.27 The Observatory, North Park, partylikegatsby.eu More than 25 circus, cabaret and vaudeville performers vow to entertain guests at this immersive, 1920s-themed experience that lasts all night long.

PHOTO BY DOM MARTIN

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Orange and Isabella Avenues, Coronado coronadomainstreet.org More than 400 classic, hot rod and custom cars — all dating back to before 1973 — serve as the centerpiece of this gearhead’s haven, which is set to feature live music and raffle drawings all day long.

Find food and drink events on page 70.

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CURRENTS

Laughing Stock April Stand-up Roundup

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

JP 4.5-7 SEARS

@ The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

The most famous person to ever come out of San Diego is Ron Burgundy. The amount of non-fictional pride that this city takes in this fictional character is shocking in the most confusing sense of the word. — JP Sears in Facebook video Why I Love San Diego 32

APRIL 2018 @PACIFICSD

NIKKI GLASER

4.5-7

@ The Comedy Store, thecomedystore.com/la-jolla

I had a female pilot the other day actually, and as a woman I was like, ‘Yeah, girl! Get it! Woohoo!’ you know, but also, like, are we going to be OK? But mostly like, ‘Yeah!’... is there a guy in there with her?

— Nikki Glaser on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon PHOTO BY BRANDON WILLIAMS/GETTY IMAGES

DAT PHAN

4.8

@ The Comedy Store, thecomedystore.com/la-jolla

I’m very happy. You know why?

Because I’m in a relationship. I’m in a relationship with a girl I love. She’s a white girl. She has a kid that’s not mine, but I’m very happy. I love ‘em both. I want to adopt the little girl. I want to be the first Asian guy to adopt a white kid for once. I think it’s time for a change.

— Dat Phan on Last Comic Standing PHOTO BY JESSE GRANT/GETTY IMAGES @PACIFICSD

APRIL 2018

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CURRENTS | COMEDY

4.10

TRAILER PARK BOYS @ Balboa Theater, sandiegotheatres.org

Ricky: [about their illegal gas station] “Unleaded, blue container. Supreme, red container. Diesel in the green. Okay, are we clear here, guys?”

Cory: “Yeah, but how can you tell which is the Supreme?”

Ricky: “What, are you stupid? You f**kin’ taste it. Unleaded tastes a little tangy.

Supreme is kinda sour, and diesel tastes pretty good.”

— from Trailer Park Boys

THE LUCAS BROTHERS

Kenneth Lucas: “All drugs aren’t created equal...

We did ’shrooms.”

Keith Lucas: “And here’s a rule of thumb, you should never do ’shrooms with a dude who looks like you. Stick to weed.

— from Lucas Brothers: On Drugs PHOTO BY JOE SCARNICI/GETTY IMAGES

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APRIL 2018 @PACIFICSD

4.12-14

@ The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

CURRENTS | COMEDY

4.19-21

4.26-28

4.27-29

JOSH WOLF

T.J. MILLER

LONI LOVE

How much Mexican food have I had since I’ve been in San Antonio, you ask?

Well, I just apologized to a toilet. So, there’s that.

Luckily, for both of us, I hate the Internet, and the Internet hates me.

I am the Barack Obama of fat people. Yes we can... eat.

— T.J. Miller on Twitter

— Loni Love on Loni Love: America’s Sister

@ The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

@ The American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

PHOTO BY ETHAN MILLER/GETTY IMAGES

@ The Comedy Store, thecomedystore.com/la-jolla

PHOTO BY MICHAEL TRAN/GETTY IMAGES

— Josh Wolf on Twitter PHOTO BY MICHAEL KOVAC/GETTY IMAGES

DONNELL 4.20-22 RAWLINGS

@ The Comedy Store, thecomedystore.com/la-jolla

Black people, we’ve got to get some unity, man, and start showing love for each other.

Every other race look out for each other. Italians look out for Italians; Irish look out for Irish; Jews look out for Jews. Black people, we look out for the cops.

— Donnell Rawlings on The Comedy Shaq PHOTO BY JASON KEMPIN/GETTY IMAGES

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PULSE ARTS | COOLTURE ART BEAT

BY LISA DEADERICK

4.26-29 ART ALIVE 2018 San Diego Museum of Art, 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.7931, sdmart.org Every year, the arrival of spring comes with more than 100 floral arrangements to interpret various works of art, paired with related events, from local and national designers.

Portrait of a Boy at the Spanish Court

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R E A L E STAT E M A R K E T WATC H

KENSINGTON, 92116 Stunning, highly upgraded 2-bed, 2-bath Kensington home with guest house located on private canyon!

Bright and open floorplan features tiled fireplace, original wood floors, crown molding/baseboards, recessed lighting, plantation shutters, spacious eat-in kitchen with farmhouse sink, butcher block island and abundant storage. Modern baths with stone, marble and European shower systems. Terraced backyard with multiple entertaining areas, lush landscaping and fruit trees. Covered built-in bar with flat screen TV, BBQ and fridge.

The perfect place to entertain or relax with lots of privacy and quiet. Accommodate visitors with a separate guest house that includes kitchen and 1 bedroom! Near restaurants, parks and freeway access.

4814 Sussex Dr., San Diego 92116; $1,199,000

MARKET UPDATE # of homes for sale: 24 # of homes sold: 2 (Feb.) Highest price: $1,885,000 Lowest price: $300,000 Average price: $980,800

The first quarter has started off strong, a trend which appears to be continuing into the second quarter as well. Many new listings are on the market, and active buyers are making decisions to pursue purchases.

There are many multiple-offer situations, and the market forecasts a positive, stable and rising market for 2018. The energy is felt throughout the city and county. It’s a great time to purchase and sell in San Diego.

MELISSA GOLDSTEIN TUCCI

MelissaTucci.com | Sold@MelissaTucci.com 1820 Monroe Ave., San Diego, CA 92116

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No. 1 ranked Coldwell Banker agent/broker and official real estate agent of the San Diego Padres.

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4.6-29 2018 BUSINESS OF ART > ARTIST EXHIBITION

Art Beat

April gallery + exhibit openings

The Studio Door 3750 30th St., North Park 619.255.4920, thestudiodoor.com The local art students and emerging artists who competed in this year’s Business of Art scholarship have their work on display this month at The Studio Door.

BY LISA DEADERICK Hillcrest at Night by Patric Stillman Too Cool for School by Marilyn Shayegan

4.6-29 SAN DIEGO LEGENDS The Studio Door 3750 30th St., North Park 619.255.4920, thestudiodoor.com A celebration of the beauty of San Diego’s scenery, people, history, politics, tourism, or individual street art shown through the work of local visual artists.

4.1-28 OFFBEAT NUANCES, AN ART EXHIBITION San Diego Watercolor Society, 2825 Dewey Rd., Building 202, Liberty Station 619.876.4550, sdws.org The San Diego Watercolor Society presents this exhibition of work by award-winning artist Judy Schroeder, with original, ready-to-hang paintings on display and for sale.

4.4-27 ART OF THE AVOCADO COMPETITION Brandon Gallery, 105 N. Main Ave., Fallbrook 760.723.1330, fallbrookbrandongallery.org Artists celebrate the creamy heartiness of the avocado in twoand three-dimensional works, as well as photography in this annual competition, which coincides with Fallbrook’s Avocado Festival on April 15. Payday by John Tobin 40

APRIL 2018 @PACIFICSD

4.7-5.13 CAMPUS CREATIVES: FROM THE CLASSROOM TO THE MUSEUM California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido 760.839.4138, artcenter.org This time, the educators who teach and guide future artists are featured in this juried exhibition, highlighting the ways these teachers practice what they preach.

R E A L E STAT E M A R K E T WATC H

DOWNTOWN, 92101 Enjoy stunning bay views from this immaculate NW-corner residence at Electra. Features bamboo and travertine floors, granite counters, Bosch appliances, fireplace in living room and a generous balcony. Master bedroom features oversize walk-in closet and beautiful bay views. Includes 2 parking spots and private storage. Electra is built on the historical San Diego Gas & Electra site. Elevating 43 stories, it is the tallest residential tower in San Diego.

Electra offers world-class amenities: a gorgeous Conservatory with full kitchen (great for catered affairs and private parties), player piano and an LED TV. The fifth floor features a sauna and steam rooms, fitness center, pool/spa, outdoor fire-pit lounge and BBQs. 700 W. E St., #2103, San Diego CA 92101; $999,900

DOWNTOWN MARKET UPDATE # of homes for sale: 261 # of homes sold: 53 (Feb.) Highest price: $1,380,000 Lowest price: $319,500 Average home price: $460,000

The market is at a steady pace, with only a slow change upward since the beginning of the year. With spring coming, the real estate market is sure to pick up at a rapid speed. There has been a burst of active listings, so the inventory is available for buyers. Opportunities exist, but representation matters, as does knowing all the listings available on and off the market. If you’re interested in exploring buying or selling a property in downtown, give us a call: (619) 356-3099.

Chad@DanneckerandAssociates.com | @welcometosandiego.com #welcometosandiego | @WelcometoSD 875 G St., Ste. 108, San Diego, CA 92101

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619.356.3099

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PULSE | ART BEAT

4.14-5.5 RESURRECTION: A SOLO SHOW BY LINNEA STRID Distinction Gallery, 317 E. Grand Ave., Escondido, 760.707.2770, distinctionart.com Artist Linnea Strid, based in Sweden, creates realistic oil paintings that use water in her portraiture, at times tricking the viewer into thinking her paintings are actually photographs.

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As The World Collapsed, Chaos Became My Peace

by Linnea Strid

Red Gold Pour Box by Nancy Lorenz. Photo by Adam Reich

PULSE | ART BEAT Photo by M. Eliane Weidauer

4.14-15 OCEANSIDE DAYS OF ART Oceanside Cultural Arts Foundation Pier View Way, Oceanside, 760.433.3632, ocaf.info Get ready for two days of juried paintings, sculptures, glass, ceramics, jewelry and photography for sale, along with live performances, interactive arts activities, street chalk art, demonstrations and plenty of food.

Resting Artist by Alla Bartoshchuk

4.27-9.3 NANCY LORENZ: MOON GOLD San Diego Museum of Art, 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park, 619.232.7931, sdmart.org In one of her first solo museum exhibitions, artist Nancy Lorenz shares new works inspired by Japanese masterpieces from the museum’s permanent collection.

Family with Car 1970s

4.20-5.31 ART OF THE PORTRAIT 2018 Brandon Gallery, 105 Main Ave., Fallbrook 760.723.1330, fallbrookbrandongallery.org This juried show zeroes in on the beauty and complexity of the human face and its varying expressions.

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4.27-7.8 BEYOND BOLLYWOOD: INDIAN AMERICANS SHAPE THE NATION New Americas Museum, 2825 Dewey Rd., Ste. 102, Liberty Station 619.756.7707, newamericasmuseum.org This traveling exhibition from the Smithsonian Institution offers insight into the history and experiences of Indian Americans in the United States.

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PULSE | CURTAIN CALLS

Curtain Calls April performing arts

BY JAMES HEBERT

4.11-5.6 HOW THE OTHER HALF LOVES North Coast Rep 987 Lomas Santa Fe Dr., Solana Beach, 858.481.1055, northcoastrep.org That Brit wit Alan Ayckbourn weaves together a breathless comedy of three married couples navigating misunderstandings, infidelity and (much) more.

4.3-22 SOUL DOCTOR

4.6-8 THE GREAT GATSBY

Lyceum Theatre 79 Horton Plaza, downtown 619.544.1000, lyceumevents.org The Broadway musical about a real-life “folk-singin’ rabbi” tunes up for the launch of an international tour here.

California Ballet at the Civic Theatre 1100 Third Ave., downtown 619.570.1100, californiaballet.org Septime Webre’s ballet adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel of the 1920s returns for an encore performance.

4.6-5.6 THE WANDERERS

4.10 MY HEART IN A SUITCASE

Old Globe, Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre, Balboa Park 619.234.5623, theoldglobe.org The connections between two very different couples — one a duo of young Orthodox Jews, the other a pair of highpowered celebrities — drive Anna Ziegler’s world-premiere play.

California Center for the Arts, Escondido 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido 800.988.4253, artcenter.org Set in 1938 Germany, the educational touring play looks at one family’s wrenching decision as the Nazi menace looms.

4.23-24 AN EVENING WITH GROUCHO North Coast Rep 987 Lomas Santa Fe Dr., Solana Beach 858.481.1055, northcoastrep.org The man, the music, the mustache: Frank Ferrante steps into Groucho Marx’s shoes for storytelling, jokes and even some singing.

4.27-5-27 SOUTH PACIFIC San Diego Musical Theatre Horton Grand Theatre, 444 Fourth Ave., downtown, 858.560.5740, sdmt.org It’s a fresh go-round for the Rodgers & Hammerstein classic, which introduced such standards as Bali Ha’i and Some Enchanted Evening.

4.6-5.20 NOISES OFF

4.23 LIVING WILL: THE LEGACY OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE

4.28 DANCE GALLERY

Lamb’s Players Theatre 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado 619.437.6000, lambsplayers.org It’s game on as Lamb’s Players stages Michael Frayn’s whirlwind of a comedy — a piece that may be the ultimate “backstage” farce.

New Village Arts Theatre 2787 State St., Carlsbad 760.433.3245, newvillagearts.org Author and language ace Richard Lederer delves into Shakespeare’s plays and sonnets in a celebration of the Bard’s birthday.

San Diego Ballet White Box Live Arts, 2590 Truxtun Rd., No. 205, Liberty Station 619.294.7378, sandiegoballet.org San Diego Ballet artistic chief Javier Velasco directs a mix of works from emerging choreographers in this spring showcase.

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APRIL 2018

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PULSE

The Reel Deal

April motion picture preview

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER

BLOCKERS Teens out to have fun. Parents out to stop it.

Comedy Directed by Kay Cannon Starring: Kathryn Newton, John Cena, Ike Barinholtz In theaters: 4.6 After three neighborhood parents discover their teenage daughters’ pact to get deflowered, the adults agree to stop at nothing in order to preserve their girls’ maidenhoods.

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PULSE | THE REEL DEAL A QUIET PLACE If they hear you, they hunt you.

Thriller | Drama Directed by John Krasinski Starring: John Krasinski, Emily Blunt, Millicent Simmonds In theaters: 4.6 An isolated family of four lives in utter silence for fear of an ominous force that doles out death with every decibel it detects.

MIRACLE SEASON Every point, every game, every match... was for her.

Biography | Drama Directed by Sean McNamara Starring: Erin Moriarty, Danika Yarosh, Helen Hunt In theaters: 4.6 Following the tragic death of a high school volleyball star, a coach struggles to inspire a team of forlorn girls to pull together and win the championship in honor of their departed friend.

YOU WERE NEVER REALLY HERE Drama | Mystery Directed by Lynne Ramsay Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Alessandro Nivola, Ekaterina Samsonov In theaters: 4.6 A fearless, but shell-shocked contract killer uncovers a game-changing conspiracy while trying to keep a kidnapped girl from a life on the streets.

LEAN ON PETE You can’t get anywhere on your own.

Adventure | Drama Directed by Andrew Haigh Starring: Travis Fimmel, Steve Buscemi, Chloë Sevigny In theaters: 4.6 A homeless teen takes a summer job working for a has-been horse trainer in Portland, and after bonding with a past-his-prime equine, the kid and his steed embark on a 1,000-mile journey to Wyoming.

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OVERBOARD A rags to riches story. If only he could remember it.

Comedy | Romance Directed by Rob Greenberg and Bob Fisher Starring: Eugenio Derbez, Anna Faris, Eva Longoria In theaters: 4.13 A single, struggling mother takes advantage of an arrogant, amnesiac, A-hole in this revenge-centric remake of the classic ’80s comedy.

AARDVARK Drama Directed by Brian Shoaf Starring: Zachary Quinto, Jenny Slate, Jon Hamm In theaters: 4.13 A therapist attempting to treat a seriously troubled patient loses her focus after she falls for the man’s more even-keeled brother.

BLUMHOUSE’S TRUTH OR DARE They are dying to play.

Horror | Thriller Directed by Jeff Wadlow Starring: Lucy Hale, Tyler Posey, Violett Beane In theaters: 4.13 An innocent game of truth or dare evolves into a living nightmare when some players refuse to obey the rules.

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PULSE | THE REEL DEAL RAMPAGE Big meets bigger.

Fantasy | Sci-Fi Directed by Brad Peyton Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Joe Manganiello In theaters: 4.13 Only a hulking primatologist can save the day after an unsanctioned genetic experiment transforms a gorilla, a wolf and a reptile into enormous and aggressive beasts bent on destroying everything they encounter.

TULLY See how the mother half lives.

Comedy Directed by Jason Reitman Starring: Charlize Theron, Mackenzie Davis, Ron Livingston In theaters: 4.20 After an unexpected “night nanny” arrives at the door, a mother of three forms an unlikely bond with the woman hired to help her.

SUPER TROOPERS 2

I FEEL PRETTY Change everything, without changing anything.

Comedy Directed by Marc Silverstein and Abby Kohn Starring: Amy Schumer, Emily Ratajkowski, Michelle Williams In theaters: 4.20 A woman suffering from low self-esteem loses consciousness after falling off an exercise bike and wakes up believing she’s the most beautiful and competent person on the planet.

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The mustache rides. Again.

Comedy | Crime Directed by Jay Chandrasekhar Starring: Jay Chandrasekhar, Paul Soter, Steve Lemme In theaters: 4.20 Seventeen years after the original installment became an instant cult comedy, the five dysfunctional troopers are back, this time to resolve a border dispute with America’s neighbors to the north.

AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR An entire universe. Once and for all.

Fantasy | Sci-Fi Directed by Anthony Russo and Joe Russo Starring: Robert Downey Jr., Chris Pratt, Chris Evans In theaters: 4.27 Every major Marvel character you can think of joins forces to fight Earth’s most powerful enemy yet, who plans to use six artifacts to f**k up the planet worse than global warming.

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ON FIRE Padres will look to new blood, farm system full of ‘hot talent lava’ to kick off entertaining 2018 season

By Kevin Acee

The San Diego Padres enter the 2018 season with a new face of the franchise and skyrocketing optimism about the future.

That future is not quite now.

“We’re still a long ways from where we want to be, and that’s playing games in October,” manager Andy Green said recently. “We’re nowhere near that.”

That doesn’t mean this season doesn’t promise to have its moments. Far from it.

PHOTO BY MATT YORK /AP PHOTO

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In honor of first baseman Eric Hosmer’s eight-year contract, the richest in Padres history, here are eight things to know about the Padres that should provide an entertaining 2018 season.

1. Hos

Few around baseball — or San Diego — could believe it when the Padres were first mentioned as suitors for Hosmer, a 28-yearold who has already been a World Series hero and an All-Star Game MVP. But there the Padres were in February, introducing their new first baseman, who can make $144 million over the life of the deal. Hosmer was signed for his ability to get on base and play exceptional defense, but also for his skill and willingness as a leader.

He is always smiling, always talking and is interested in helping the Padres grow into what his Kansas City Royals team became — World Series participants in 2014 and World Series champions in 2015.

3. No longer the man, thankfully

Wil Myers gave it a try, and he will still try to be the best teammate he can be. But he can now just concentrate on baseball rather than working to be a vocal leader. Myers, just 27 year old, gamely jumped into the leader role on a young team after signing what at the time was the franchise’s largest-ever contract in 2017. But he has been up front about being pleased that Hosmer and other veterans have been brought in to fill that role now.

Many around the team expect the lifted burden — as well as Hosmer’s presence in the lineup — to help Myers’ performance.

2. Hot Lava

At Hosmer’s introductory press conference, his agent, the loquacious Scott Boras, said the Padres’ farm system was full of “hot talent lava” that would benefit from Hosmer’s presence as the young players grew into “major league rock.” The phrases took off with both fans and people in the organization. A few days later, Hosmer bought T-shirts for his teammates, coaches and others in the organization. On the front: #HOTTALENTLAVA. On the back: #MAJORLEAGUEROCK. It is expected that several of the organization’s top prospects will make their major league debuts throughout the season, some sooner than later. Among the names to look for: second baseman Luis Urias; shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr.; and starting pitchers Joey Lucchesi, Eric Lauer and Cal Quantrill.

4.Trevor Time

Former Padres closer Trevor Hoffman will be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame on July 29, and the Padres are celebrating his enshrinement throughout the season with various giveaways and special events. Foremost, prior to a game on a yet-to-be-determined date in the summer, a bronze statue of the pitcher will be unveiled to go along with the one of Tony Gwynn in the Park at the Park. Numerous Hoffman bobbleheads will be given away throughout the season, including Hoffman’s inclusion in a set of four bobbleheads to be given away at successive games, May 10-13, honoring the team’s 1998 World Series team. Those bobbleheads will fit together at the base and are of Hoffman, Gwynn, Ken Caminiti and Greg Vaughn.

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PHOTOS BY: 1. K.C. ALFRED; 2. ANNIE HEILBRUNN; 3. CHARLIE NEIBERGALL/AP PHOTO; 4. KYUSUNG GONG/AP PHOTO; 5. MATT YORK/AP PHOTO; 6. CHARLIE NEIBERGALL/AP PHOTO; 7. ROSS D. FRANKLIN/AP PHOTO; 8. K.C. ALFRED

5. Viva Monterrey

The Padres play just 78 home games this season, as they gave up a threegame home series with the Dodgers. That set will be played in Monterrey, Mexico, as part of Major League Baseball’s ongoing campaign to entice fans globally. It is the first of six series MLB plans to play in Mexico over the next four seasons. Teams will also play regular season series in England and Asia in the next few years.

7. Watch him

Jose Pirela was called up from Triple-A last June 6 and from that point to the end of the season led the Padres in batting average, on-base percentage and slugging percentage. After spending most of the previous nine seasons in the minor leagues, he has earned an abundance of major league at-bats as the Padres will get him in games in the outfield and at second base. He’s a good hitter, yes. But the real joy is in watching his joy. He runs out every ground ball, seeks to take an extra base whenever possible and seems to always be smiling. Said shortstop Freddy Galvis of Pirela: “It’s like when you see it, you say, ‘Oh wow! I want to play like him.’ … Pick somebody who plays harder than him. Just try.”

8. Skipping

The Padres have enough team speed to be among the leaders in stolen bases in the National League and to generate more runs. They have sometimes been hamstrung by poor fundamentals. That shouldn’t be the case anymore; or else someone is getting in trouble. The Padres hired Skip Schumaker as their first base coach, with his duties primarily being working with outfielders and baserunners. Schumaker, who retired following the 2015 season, his 11th as a player, is exacting and intense. Said outfielder Travis Jankowski: “We’re afraid to not touch the base with the right foot.”

6. No longer green

Andy Green, 40, is still the second-youngest manager in the big leagues (five months older than Tampa Bay’s Kevin Cash). But he is entering his third season and has hand-picked his staff so that it is now largely made up of guys who are wired like him — that is, intense and relatively young. The Padres are still not to the point talent-wise that Green can be solely judged on wins and losses. That will come. But they are better, so 2018 should provide Green more opportunities to make in-game maneuvers that affect games in a positive way. @PACIFICSD

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TASTE EAT | DRINK | PUFF DINING OUT

BY PAM KRAGEN

Hare We Go Again

See what’s hoppin’ at the Gaslamp’s newest hotspot Rabbits are quiet, docile creatures, but be prepared for some wild and crazy when it comes to the Gaslamp’s newest addition, Volcano Rabbit.

PHOTO BY JOSIE GONZALES

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TASTE | DINING

Since opening in midFebruary, Volcano Rabbit has been providing a high-energy party space in the Gaslamp. Along with personal tequila lockers, the 95-seat venue offers a selection of 175 agave spirits, a DJed Saturday Party Brunch with custom chilaquiles and a regular menu that includes craft tacos, meat boards and a variety of large entrées.

T

he restaurant/nightspot, which opened in mid-February in the former Don Chido Mexican restaurant comes after RMD Group closed Don Chido last fall to revamp the space into a more nightlifefocused concept. Partner Mike Georgopoulos said early response has been strong.

Cute and fuzzy it is not. Volcano Rabbit is a high-energy, 95-seat tequila bar, with 175 agave spirits in house, DJs four nights a week, bottle service, tequila lockers and a Saturday party brunch.

The venue’s no-holds-barred

marketing slogan? “Flirt with the DJ, welcome mischief.”

“Tequila bars are meant to be fun and we’ve created a stylish space for customers to drink creative cocktails, socialize and get a bit loud. Even our Taco Tuesday has a DJ. We wanted to make sure our messaging was in line with the energy that’s happening inside,” Georgopoulos said.

Founded in 2008, RMD Group is owned by Georgopoulos, Dave Renzella and Dan Renzella. They own or operate eight restaurants, bars and nightclubs downtown.

He said running businesses in the highly competitive and expensive downtown district isn’t for the faint of heart. Case in point: Salvucci’s, an East Village Italian restaurant the company shut down on March 10 after just two years in business.

Georgopoulos said the hospitality industry is a fast-changing marketplace with constantly shifting customer preferences. To stay ahead of the curve, RMD has tried to find unfilled niches. One of its first projects, Side

Bar, introduced the hybrid restaurant/ lounge/nightclub concept. And Rustic Root opened in 2015 as the Gaslamp’s first rooftop restaurant.

Now comes Volcano Rabbit, which is actually a real thing — a tiny, nocturnal, mountain-dwelling rabbit found only in Mexico.

“It was a memorable and interesting name that captured the essence of the concept,” he said.

Georgopoulos said the company decided to revamp Don Chido because the restaurant industry has been so volatile in recent years. By contrast, RMD’s tried-and-true nightlife formula is what he calls “future-proof.”

The centerpiece of Volcano Rabbit is its spirits menu, serving downtown’s largest selection of tequila and international agave spirits. Locals can rent in-house tequila lockers, which entitles them to buy bottles for half-price.

There’s also a 40-label bottle service program, with a mix-and-match mini-bottles option.

On the food side, chef Andre Alto is serving craft tacos, with fillings ranging from carne asada to octopus, seared ahi and sticky beef short rib. Every month, he creates a new $20 taco with gourmet ingredients.

March’s “Luxe” taco featured butterpoached Maine lobster, sturgeon black caviar, edible gold leaf and shaved black truffle. There are bigger entrée items and meat boards for heartier appetites.

Volcano Rabbit also offers a DJdriven Saturday Party Brunch. The $25 all-you-can-eat service includes a build-your-own ceviche station and custom chilaquiles. For an extra $20, you get unlimited mimosas and build-your own bloody Marys.

“People should get prepared for a unique and energetic brunch experience to kick off the weekend,” Georgopoulos said.

Volcano Rabbit 527 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.232.8226 volcanorabbitsd.com

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ADDITIONAL PHOTOS BY ALEJANDRO TAMAYO & COURTESY PHOTOS @PACIFICSD

APRIL 2018

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TASTE | BEER

Take it from the Tap

A monthly taste of beer from here

BY PETER ROWE

A NEW BREW IN TOWN Know: In mid-April, San Diego’s newest brewery, Latchkey Brewing, moves into one of the city’s oldest brewing locations.

The brick Mission Revival-style building, built for Mission Brewery (1913-1918), was recently occupied by Acoustic Ales (2013-2018).

So?: Latchkey aims to satisfy fans of quality easy-drinkers. “Our beer sweet spot is 4 to 7 percent, in terms of alcohol by volume,” said co-founder Matt West. Expect lagers, a kölsch, pale ales, an IPA and a porter.

Hey, bro: West is partnering with a brother-in-law, Gerald Dollente, a homebrewer and former Ballast Point employee.

Oh, no: While a stately landmark, Latchkey’s new home has old building issues: narrow passages, an awkward loading dock, a two-story layout. “We definitely know what we are getting into it,” West said. “It’s very quirky.”

Latchkey Brewing 1795 Hancock St., Mission Hills latchkeybrew.com

Vintage pictures (left) show the original Mission Brewery building in Mission Hills before much else was built around it.

THIRST QUENCHING A local beer to spend some time with

Beer: Normcore Pils From: Burning Beard Brewing Company Why: On a bright April day, what’s better than a bright pilsner? Normcore may be the region’s best Czech-style pils — clean, lightbodied and refreshing.

Geeking out: 5.5% ABV; 35 international bittering units; German malts; Czech hops.

Burning Beard Brewing Company 785 Vernon Way, El Cajon 619.456.9185, burningbeardbrewing.com

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PROMOTION

D.E.W.ING HIS THING For Tullamore Tim, March Madness wasn’t about basketball

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER PHOTOS BY TIM HERLIHY

Every year around this time, Tim Herlihy visits scores of bars, pubs and restaurants across the country, extolling the many virtues of Tullamore D.E.W., the exceptional Irish whiskey with a history dating back nearly two centuries. As the national brand ambassador for the distinguished distillery, the Irishman shares his passion for the potent potable with as many people as possible.

“I’ve been in a different city every day for the last 20 days,” says Herlihy, who calls Manhattan home during the one week each month he’s not on the road. “So, it’s Irish pubs galore.”

In 2016, during the 30 days leading up to St. Patrick’s Day, Herlihy visited an Irish pub in all 50 states. Last year, he broke a Guinness World Record by concocting the largest Irish Coffee ever made.

“The world record previous to us was, I think, 160 gallons,” he says. “We made a 234-gallon one in Chicago for National Irish Coffee Day. It was 3,500 Irish-coffee’s worth, and I’m still shaking.”

During his March 2018 whirlwind tour across America, “Tullamore Tim” took a break at East Village’s Half Door Brewing Co. for a quick chat about whiskey and his extensive travel schedule.

PACIFIC: What were some highlights from your 30-day, 50-state adventure in 2016?

TIM HERLIHY: Well, one of the best Irish bars in the country is right here in San Diego: The Field.

The Field is fantastic in terms of representing an Irish pub, and — I don’t mind saying this — it’s the best Irish pub in California. You have those nooks and crannies in there, and there’s an instant character and atmosphere to the place. Plus, the food is bangin’ for Irish fare, and they have a great lineup up Irish whiskeys. I also gotten to see some weird and wonderful things, too, like the world’s biggest pub crawl is a St. Patrick’s Day pub crawl, which takes place in Charlotte, North

Carolina, with 22,000 people.

I also bumped in Hot Springs, Arkansas, home to world’s shortest St. Patrick’s Day parade.

It’s just 92-feet short, but 30,000 people attend.

What distinguishes Tullamore D.E.W. from other whiskey brands?

Our big thing with Tully is that it tastes great, obviously, so we start there, but it’s more about why it tastes great. And really it comes down to those three styles of Irish whiskey. We tripledistill it, and it’s very easy to make smooth whiskey, but ours has complexity and character because it uses those three styles. It’s pretty rare among Irish whiskey. You won’t see that with Jameson or Bushmills. It’s a unique feature to Tully.

What’s your favorite element of Tullamore D.E.W.’s rich history?

Our founder, Daniel Edmund Williams, the D.E.W. in Tullamore D.E.W., went to work at the old Tullamore distillery at the age of 14. We don’t hire 14-year-old’s any more.

You have a reputation for making memorable toasts. What are a couple of your favorites?

“May you work like you don’t need the money, love like you’ve never been hurt, dance as if no one’s watching, sing as if no one’s listening and live each day as if it was your last.” And another is, “To the death of thirst, and the birth of fond memories.”

Follow @TullamoreTim on Instagram, Twitter & Facebook.

TASTE | EVENTS

Full Plate

April food and drink happenings

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER + LESLIE HACKETT

4.4 SUSHI CHEF BATTLE CRUISE Sheri Amie Yacht, Marina District cruisesandfestivals.com Cruise around the bay while chefs go headto-head to win this sushi battle for best poke, rolls and sashimi.

4.7 CITYBEAT BEER FEST Outside of The Lafayette Hotel, North Park, citybeatbeerfest.com Beats and beers are the main attraction at this festival that helps support the San Diego Music Foundation.

4.7 TROPI-CALI BEER FEST Ingram Plaza, Liberty Station getchargedup.net/events-trips Bust out the Hawaiian shirts, shorts and shades and celebrate tropical beers, cocktails and food at this bright festival.

4.7 2018 SAN DIEGO ’90S PUB CRAWL Moonshine Beach, Pacific Beach facebook.com/partyamericaevents Count on it smelling like Teen Spirit at this costumed drink-a-thon, which includes a free beer and a shot while touring several of P.B.’s best bars.

4.8-10 CALIFORNIA CRAFT BREWERS ASSOCIATION SPRING CONFERENCE Hilton San Diego Resort and Spa, Mission Bay californiacraftbeer.com Join hundreds of industry experts for a weekend-long conference that will explore California-specific educational workshops and provide one-on-one consultations along with networking opportunities, beer receptions and a trade show.

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TASTE OF LIBERTY STATION 4.18

Liberty Station, Point Loma, libertystation.com Indulge in Liberty Station’s many gustatory experiences on this self-guided, art-infused food walk that also features an adults-only Bubbly Garden.

PHOTO BY ANTONIO DIAZ DE SANDI

4.11 TASTE OF POINT LOMA United Portuguese SES Inc., Point Loma facebook.com/tasteofpointloma Savor samples of Point Loma and Shelter Island’s freshest seafood, choicest cuisine and most decadent desserts at this tasting event showcasing the peninsula’s best restaurants, cafes and bakeries.

4.11 TASTE OF MORENA Various locations around the Morena District mbasandiego.org/taste-of-morena-tickets

Sip, taste and stroll (or trolley) around the Morena District during this 11th annual event hosted by the area’s Business Association.

4.14 SIXTH ANNUAL VINDIEGO Liberty Station, Point Loma vindiego.com Wine, food, music and fun await you at this oenophilic festival featuring more than 300 varietals from top-tier vintners, plus fare from some of San Diego’s very best chefs.

4.14 I LOVE THE ’90s BASH Throughout the Gaslamp Quarter facebook.com/ilove90sbash Strap on your fanny pack, dust off your denim jacket and bust out any other ’90s attire for this throwback party that includes drink specials at several bars set to a soundtrack of last century’s tastiest tunes.

4.14 TASTE OF HILLCREST Throughout Hillcrest fabuloushillcrest.com Take your taste buds on a culinary adventure to more than 35 of Hillcrest’s best restaurants during this annual uptown foodie fest.

4.15 32ND ANNUAL FALLBROOK AVOCADO FESTIVAL Main Street, Fallbrook fallbrookchamberofcommerce.org Guacamole contests, inflatable avocados and even a race featuring vehicles made from SoCal’s signature fruit make this oneof-a-kind event an affair for anyone who loves “alligator pears.”

SAN DIEGO MAC AND CHEESE BEERFEST

4.21

Lane Field (near Broadway Pier), downtown, cheeseandbeerfest.com This after-dark, outdoor event includes complimentary samples of more than 60 craft beers, plus two stages of live music and small portions of mac ‘n’ cheese from a dozen local chefs.

PHOTO BY MAUI DIEGO

4.21 BIKES, BOARDS AND BREWS Crown Point Park, Mission Bay pacificbeach.org/events Celebrate the beach culture of Pacific Beach during this ninth annual event that will provide beer tasters, food pairings from local restaurants, a bike show and local artists.

4.21-22 TEQUILA AND TACO MUSIC FESTIVAL Embarcadero Marina Park South, Marina District tequilaandtacomusicfestival.com Let the good times flow along with mas tequila (sampling of the top-shelf spirit on Saturday only) and tacos while soaking in the sun along the San Diego Bay.

Dining among giant ranunculus is just the start of a great evening during this multicourse artisanal dinner that takes place at the 50-acre Flower Fields that overlook the Pacific Ocean.

4.26 SOUNDBITE DINNER Lot 8, Mission Valley soundbitedinner.com Chefs Accursio Lota (Solare Lounge) and Sara Polcynski (Seasoned Plates), along with Nick Brune (Eco Caters) will wow diners with a six-course menu inspired by six original songs by country crooner Trevor McSpadden, who will perform live during the meal.

4.26 12TH DINING OUT FOR LIFE Restaurants throughout San Diego thecentersd.org Make plans to dine out as scores of restaurants, bars, clubs and coffeehouses across San Diego pledge to donate 25% (or more) of this day’s sales to The Center’s HIV/ AIDS services and prevention programs.

4.26 AMERICAN GROWN FIELD TO VASE DINNER The Flower Fields, Carlsbad americangrownflowers.org/fieldtovase

4.28 EIGHTH ANNUAL TASTE OF TEMECULA VALLEY Old Town Civic Center Plaza, Temecula tasteoftemeculavalley.com Offering menu selections from the many of Southern California’s finest restaurants, wineries, craft breweries, this savor-andstroll event will also include artisan booths and live entertainment all day long.

4.28 QUINTESSENTIAL CRAFT BEER & WINE FESTIVAL

Nobel Recreational Center, University City lajollagtrotary.org Unlimited samples will be available from more than 30 local breweries, distilleries and wineries during this dog-friendly event (formerly Golden Triangle Arts & Craft Beer Festival) that benefits 45 charity partners of the Rotary Club of La Jolla Golden Triangle.

4.29 SEVENTH ANNUAL CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL The Maritime Museum of San Diego, Embarcadero, sdmaritime.org Celebrate the popular sweet while floating on the bay during this choc-o-holic’s dream come true, which includes pairings, demonstrations, a scavenger hunt and even a make-your-own-chocolate-pizza station.

4.29 SAN DIEGO COUNTY VINTNERS’ ASSOCIATION WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL Bernardo Winery, Rancho Bernardo sandiegowineries.org Enjoy an afternoon of unlimited vino, food and music as more than 25 of the county’s finest wineries offer pours of their best varietals.

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April 7th

Joshua Radin

PARTY LIKE A ROCK STAR Experience your next concert or private event with us

April 20th

Big K.R.I.T.: Heavy is the Crown

April 22th

La Santa Cecillia

Call now to book your next event on our top floor during an upcoming show.

Full venue buyouts also available for your next private event.

April 27th

Kiefer Sutherland

Perfect for groups of 25-700 people 619.738.0736 Events@MusicBoxSD.com

1337 India Street, San Diego, CA 92101 | 619.795.1337 |

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SARA EVANS APRIL 24

PAUL RODRIGUEZ

MAY 19 2 SHOWS!

CHIPPENDALES JUNE 23 2 SHOWS!

OZOMATLI JULY 11 & 12

6 19 . 4 4 5 . 6 0 0 2 | S Y C U A N . C O M G U E S T S M U S T B E 1 8 + T O E N T E R C A S I N O A N D R E S T A U R A N T S . M U S T B E 2 1 + T O E N T E R T H E A T R E A N D S P O R T S B A R . P L E A S E P L A Y R E S P O N S I B LY.

GROOVE MUSIC | NIGHTLIFE SOUND DECISIONS

BY SCOTT MCDONALD

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4.19 @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The Grammy-nominated, L.A.-based trio of sisters (Este, Danielle and Alana Haim) released their sophomore album, Something To Tell You, last year. It features one-time Vampire Weekend member Rostam Batmanglij contributing on a variety of instruments.

PHOTO BY KATIE FALKENBERG / LOS ANGELES TIMES

@PACIFICSD

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GROOVE

Sound Decisions April Concert Calendar

BY SCOTT MCDONALD

4.8

@ Valley View Casino Center, valleyviewcasinocenter.com The Colombian reggaeton superstar has collaborated with the likes of Shakira, Ricky Martin and Flo Rida.

His latest single, El PrĂŠstamo, was released last month.

PHOTO BY ESTEBAN FELIX

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4.10

@ Humphreys Concerts by the bay, humphreysconcerts.com David Macklovitch (Dave 1) and Patrick Gemayel (P-Thugg) of synth-funk duo Chromeo are set to release new album, Head Over Heels, this year. Album singles Juice and Bedroom Calling (featuring The-Dream) are out now.

PHOTO BY CHELSEA GUGLIELMINO/ GETTY IMAGES

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4.5 TY DOLLA $IGN @ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego Fresh from scoring a No. 1 hit with Post Malone on their recent collaboration, Psycho, the L.A.-based rapper and singer heads out on his Don’t Judge Me Tour with special guest 24hrs.

4.5 SNOOP DOGG AND WARREN G. @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Although the show is 18+, only those 21+ will be able to sip on gin and juice at Snoop Dogg and Warren G’s show at Observatory North Park. No word yet on whether Snoop will perform tracks off his latest release, a gospel album, Bible of Love.

4.6 COLE SWINDELL @ Pechanga, pechanga.com The country singer hasn’t released a fulllength album in two years, but that isn’t stopping him from heading out on his Reason To Drink Tour with Chris Janson and Lauren Alaina. Swindell’s latest single, Break Up in the End, was released in February.

4.18 @ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego After recently fronting the folk quintet Twin Forks, Chris Carrabba is back at it again with the February-released Dashboard Confessional album, Crooked Shadows. It features collaborations with Cash Cash, Lindsey Stirling and more.

PHOTO BY KEVIN WINTER/GETTY IMAGES

4.9 MATT & KIM @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com After last releasing music in 2016, the indie pop duo of Matt Johnson and Kim Schifino have a new album, Almost Everyday, coming out in May. Its first single, Forever, was released in January and features SWMRS and Mark Hoppus of blink-182.

4.12 KATE NASH @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com After recently starring in the Netflix series GLOW, the British singer and multi-instrumentalist released new album Yesterday Was Forever last month. It’s her first release in five years.

4.12 ANGEL OLSEN @ Music Box, musicboxsd.com Part of the bounty of Coachella side action that San Diego gets every year, Olsen returns to America’s Finest City on the heels of Phases, the singer-songwriter’s recent collection of B-sides, rarities, demos and unreleased tracks.

4.14 MURDER CITY DEVILS @ The Irenic, theirenic.com The long-running Seattle rockers return after

releasing their first album in 11 years, The White Ghost Has Blood on Its Hands Again, in 2014. Big Business opens the show.

released their highest-charting album ever, A Deeper Understanding, last year.

4.16 JUNGLE 4.14 JON FOREMAN @ Balboa Theatre, sandiegotheatres.org The co-founding frontman of Switchfoot plays a hometown solo show that includes a screening of his new documentary, 25 In 24, and a live performance from his acoustic trio.

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Hitting San Diego in between weekends in the desert with Beyoncé, the British electronic soul collective founded by Tom McFarland and Josh Lloyd-Watson haven’t released an album since their 2014 debut.

4.15 FLEET FOXES

4.18 ALVVAYS

@ Humphreys Concerts by the bay, humphreysconcerts.com Last here in September, bandleader Robin Pecknold brings his Seattle folkies back to San Diego on the tail end of touring for the band’s 2017 third studio album, CrackUp. The album was their first release in six years, and follows a three-year hiatus from 2013-2016.

@ Music Box, musicboxsd.com The Canadian indie-poppers led by singer-songwriter Molly Rankin released their sophomore album, Antisocialites, last year. It was produced by Grammy-winner John Congleton.

4.15 THE WAR ON DRUGS @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Returning to San Diego after last playing at 91X’s Wrex The Halls in December, Adam Granduciel’s Grammy-winning band

4.19 ALT-J @ Humphreys Concerts by the bay, humphreysconcerts.com The Leeds-based British indie trio returns to San Diego after releasing their third studio album, RELAXER, last year.

The album cracked the top 10 in charts across the globe and peaked at No. 14 on the U.S. Billboard 200.

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GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS

4.12 @ Pechanga, pechanga.com Lambs & Lions, the fourth studio album from the North Carolina-bred country singer and one-time Survivor: Nicaragua contestant, was released last year. Rice hits Temecula as part of the K-FROG CARES concert, which also features Devin Dawson.

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GROOVE | SOUND DECISIONS 4.20 KING KRULE

4.23 MARIAN HILL

4.26 5 SECONDS OF SUMMER

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Young singer-songwriter Archy Marshall (aka King Krule) released his third album, The Ooz, last year. He recently followed it up with an eight-song live performance piece, Live From the Moon.

@ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Brooklyn’s Samantha Gongol and Jeremy Lloyd continue their amazing run after an Apple AirPods commercial thrust them into the spotlight last year. The pair’s new single, Subtle Thing, was released in February.

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego Lock up your eighth-graders! YouTube celebs turned Aussie boy band that proved you can get millions of listeners with songs like She Looks So Perfect and She’s Kinda Hot makes a stop in San Diego. New single Want You Back was released in February.

4.24 SARA EVANS

4.28 SUM 41

@ Sycuan, sycuan.com Country singer Sara Evans released her eighth studio album, Words, last year. It debuted at No. 4 on Billboard’s U.S. Top Country chart and features a female writer other than Evans on every single song.

@ House of Blues, houseofblues.com/sandiego The Canadian pop-punkers do a victory lap for their 2002-released second studio album on the all-ages Does This Look Infected 15th Anniversary Tour.

4.25 THE DISTILLERS

4.29 THURSDAY

@ Casbah, casbahmusic.com After returning from an elongated absence, frontwoman Brode Dalle has gotten the band back together again.

The L.A.-based punk rockers haven’t released an album since 2003’s Coral Fang, but that isn’t stopping them.

@ Soda Bar, sodabarmusic.com The recently reformed New Jersey-based post-hardcore sextet crams into the Soda Bar for a pair of long sold out shows.

4.20 BIG K.R.I.T. @ Music Box, musicboxsd.com The Mississippi-based rapper released his third album, 4ever is a Mighty Long Time, last October. It features guest appearances from Jill Scott, CeeLo Green, T.I., Bun B and more.

4.21 UNWRITTEN LAW @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Celebrating the 20-year anniversary of the band’s self-titled third album, Scott Russo continues to lead these long-running local rockers with a reconfigured lineup that has been in place since 2014.

4.22 LA SANTA CECILIA @ Music Box, musicboxsd.com Last here in November as part of a special Dia De Los Muertos celebration with Mexrrissey and Mariachi Flor de Toloache, the Grammy-winning, L.A.-based quartet continues to tour on the release of last year’s Amar y Vivir.

4.23 BEBEL GILBERTO @ Belly Up, bellyup.com Daughter of bossa nova pioneer João Gilberto and singer Miúcha, Bebel has carried the family torch with grace and inspiration.

The scion songstress returns to the scene of the crime after releasing the locally recorded, 7-song album, Live at the Belly Up, last year.

4.12, 17 @ Civic Theatre, sandiegotheatres.org Another Coachella bonus, the former Talking Heads frontman heads to San Diego for a Thursday/Tuesday double dip. The Oscar, Grammy, Golden Globe winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee released his 11th solo album, American Utopia, last month.

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4.17 @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com The Colombian-American singer has collaborated with the likes of Snoop Dogg, Vince Staples, Gorillaz, Major Lazer, and more. So far this year, Uchis has released the single After The Storm, which featured Tyler, The Creator and Bootsy Collins, as well as appearing on Collins’ Februaryreleased single, Worth My While.

PHOTO BY MIKE WINDLE/ GETTY IMAGES

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4.17 @ Humphreys Concerts by the bay, humphreysconcerts.com L.A.-based R&B singer-songwriter Miguel released his fourth studio album, War & Leisure, last December.

It features guest appearances from Rick Ross, J. Cole, Kali Uchis and more.

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Brunch before you

GROOVE

Spin Cycle

4.6 BORGORE

4.12 2MANYDJS

4.21 CHRIS LIEBING

@ OMNIA, omniaclubs.com/san-diego Israeli DJ, Buygore Records boss and serious workaholic Borgore (aka Asaf Borger) has already released five singles this year — Coco Puffs, Svddengore with Svdden Death, Freak (feat.

Watson) with Gentlemens Club, B.Y.D. with Benda, and Reasons (feat. GG Magree) with Axel Boy.

@ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com Many know the Dewaele Brothers (David and Stephen) as Soulwax — a Belgian band that at one time also included Stefaan Van Leuven. And while Soulwax released their first album in over a decade last year, the sibling pair more often get behind the decks to perform as 2manydjs.

@ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com German techno-house DJ Chris Liebing is also a radio host and the founder of the CLR record label. Liebing regularly posts new music to his SoundCloud page.

April EDM and DJ performances

BY SCOTT MCDONALD

4.6 UMEK

Dubloadz @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Dubloadz, aka DJ/producer Dave Nardolilli, released his debut full length, Dubloadz and the 9000 Ghosts, last year. It features collaborations with Sullivan King, Virtual Riot, Anuka, and more. New single, Salt, is out now.

4.20

@ Spin Nightclub, spinnightclub.com Slovenian composer and techno DJ Umek (aka Uros Umek) has remixed Parov Stelar and was named Best Tech/House Artist at the International Dance Music Awards in 2014. This year, Umek has already released a pair of two-song singles, Quest Chain and Certain Trace.

4.7 WHAT SO NOT @ Observatory North Park, observatorysd.com Once a duo with EDM superstar Flume, What So Not is now the solo project of Australian producer Emoh Instead (aka Chris Emerson). What So Not released his 12-song, full-length debut, Not All The Beautiful Things, last month. It features collaborations with Skrillex, Toto, San Holo, SLUMBERJACK, and more.

4.7 COAST CLUB @ OMNIA, omniaclubs.com/san-diego Making noise under the moniker WeAreTreo for years, Trevor Shawn, Ace Future and Spencer Regan remixed Drake’s Fake Love and Twenty One Pilots’ Ride as self-proclaimed “surfers by day, DJs by night.” But with Regan out, Shawn and Future are taking the L.A.-based duo to the next level as Coast Club.

4.13 WALSHY FIRE @ Parq, parqsd.com Walshy Fire, aka Jamaican DJ and MC Leighton Walsh, is best known as part of the Diplo-led group Major Lazer. In collaboration with L.A.-based reggae troupe The Expanders, Walsh released the 8-song collection Top Shelf Riddim last month.

4.27 MUST DIE! X LAXX @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Texas-born, Seattle based DJ and producer MUST DIE! (aka Lee Bates) has remixed fellow colleagues from Datsik and Borgore to Habstrakt and Flux Pavilion, as well as releasing 16 EPs and albums of his own.

He shares the stage with Oxford-grad LAXX (aka James Churchill) who released his 13song Fake Friends album in February.

4.27 STEVE AOKI 4.13 BINGO PLAYERS @ OMNIA, omniaclubs.com/san-diego Dutch DJ/producer Maarten Hoogstraten continues on under the moniker he once shared with collaborator/cofounder of Hysteria Records, Paul Baumer. Since Baumer’s death in 2013, Hoogstraten has released a handful of singles and remixed the likes of Gorgon City and Hardwell. He appears as part of the duo’s 10th Anniversary tour.

4.21 RICH THE KID @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com He’s been releasing mixtapes since 2013, but Queens rapper Rich The Kid (aka Dimitri Roger) didn’t sign with Interscope Records until last year. So far in 2018, the 25-year-old producer and songwriter has already guested on 10 singles and just released his debut studio album, The World Is Yours. It features guest appearances from Kendrick Lamar, Rick Ross, Khalid, Lil Wayne, and more.

@ OMNIA, omniaclubs.com/san-diego Last in San Diego to play outdoors at the Del Mar Racetrack, Dim Mak’s fearless leader returns to the familiar confines of Omnia.

The Grammy-nominated DJ/producer spent 2017 collaborating with everyone from Gucci Mane, Migos and 2 Chainz, to Yellow Claw, DVBBS and One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson. This year, Aoki has released two singles — Azukita with Daddy Yankee, Play-NSkillz and Elvis Crespo, as well as Plur Genocide (feat.

Lockdown) with Carnage.

4.28 TJR @ Parq, parqsd.com TJR, aka DJ/producer Thomas Joseph Rozdilsky, has worked with the likes of Dillion Francis, Pitbull, Cardi B, GTA, and Savage, and remixed Armand van Helden, Jason Derulo, DJ Snake and others. He also released three singles last year — Time To Jack, Rollin and Higher State with Chris Bushnell.

brody jenner 4.7 @ Sunburn Pool Lounge at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, downtown, sunburnpool.com Brody Jenner — the hunky son of former Olympian and reality personality Caitlyn Jenner — who broke hearts on The Hills before joining his stepfamily on the reality juggernaut Keeping Up with the Kardashians, has traded in his days of (un)reality for turntables.

Brody’s public debut came via his 2005 show, The Princes of Malibu, which featured him and his older brother, Brandon (plus childhood pal Spencer Pratt) along with mom Linda Thompson and her then-husband, David Foster.

Brody continued his reality run as both Lauren Conrad and Kristin Cavalleri’s beau on The Hills, Bromance (a competition wherein the winner was crowned Brody’s bestie) and Keeping Up with the Kardashians, alongside his former stepsiblings the Kardashians, and half-sisters, Kendall and Kylie Jenner.

Now, Brody has parlayed his reality fame into a gig as a touring DJ, with a Vegas residency at Drai’s nightclub under his belt, as well as a social media following above 4 million.

And, while Brody’s been romantically linked to stars like Nicole Richie and Avril Lavigne, he was taken off the dating market when he proposed to longtime girlfriend and lifestyle blogger Kaitlynn Carter in 2016. (We look forward to hearing about Kaitlynn Jenner and Caitlyn Jenner’s Thanksgiving dinner sometime soon.)

On April 7, Brody will spin live, above the city, at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego’s Saturday day-club experience, Sunburn Pool Lounge.

Instagram: @BrodyJenner Twitter: @BrodyJenner Facebook: @BrodyJenner Snapchat: @thenextjenneration

FUN FACTS • Brody’s mom, Linda Thompson, once dated Elvis Presley.

• Brody and models Gigi and Bella Hadid all, at one time, called composer David Foster their stepdad.

• Brody’s real name is Sam Brody Jenner.

For the best shot at having Brody douse you with champagne, visit pacificsandiego.com/ brody-jenner for a chance to win a VIP table at his show, plus a $1,000 bar tab and a suite at the Hard Rock Hotel.

• Brody didn’t attend stepsister Kim Kardashian’s marriage to Kanye West in 2014.

• Since his father divorced Kris Jenner in 2014, it is rumored that Brody has not maintained a relationship with the Kardashian family.

@PACIFICSD

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LOVE | BLIND DATE

Throne Together

Daters enjoy the royal treatment before a risqué revue

BY MICHAEL BENNINGER | PHOTOS BY DAVID BROOKS | MATCHMAKER JESSICA PELLIGRA

Blind daters Megan and Jason just met in the Epic Limo that’s taking them to dinner downtown at the newly opened Monkey King restaurant. She’s an award-winning interior designer, and he helps run a vacation rental business.

So is it only a matter of time until she’s picking out accents to upgrade his properties?

Or will a lack of sizzle lead this date to fizzle?

Let’s find out after reviewing the pre-date interviews of these eligible singles.

PACIFIC: Where are you from and where do you live now?

MEGAN: Born and raised in San Diego — first generation. I’m now soaking in the sunshine 88

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in BayHo, one of the cutest little neighborhoods just west of Clairemont.

JASON: Atlanta, and I live in East Village.

What do you do for a living?

MEGAN: I’m an interior designer, constantly seeking shiny objects and beautifying spaces, one home at a time. I started my own business, M Studio Interior Design, about three years ago. It’s been the wildest three years of my life, but also the most gratifying. I never thought in a million years that I would be my own boss, let alone earn a living doing what I absolutely love to do.

JASON: Director of Operations for a vacation rental company.

Why are you going on a blind date in PACIFIC magazine?

MEGAN: Because… why not?!

JASON: I got in the wrong Uber.

What do you do for fun?

MEGAN: I love planning getaway trips with friends. Also love Pilates, yoga, exploring new bars or restaurants, snowboarding, beach days, rollerblading… I love a good laugh at a comedy show, concert or festival — except for Stagecoach and similar country music events, sorry, just not my jam. Really anything with live music, sing-a-longs and dancing involved.

JASON: Traveling, VAVi league sports and playing with my pup.

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LOVE | BLIND DATE MEGAN: Failure and disappointment.

JASON: That my parents won’t have enough for retirement. Or that they’ll ask me to create a Facebook profile for them. Both haunt my dreams.

What traits might your date exhibit that would be complete deal-breakers?

MEGAN: Lack of manners and cigarette smoke breath. Yuck, it’s such a huge turn off for me.

JASON: Rude. Self-absorbed. Smokes crack well before appetizers.

How many people have you slept with?

MEGAN: Pleading the fifth on this one.

JASON: Ha, nice try! That’s between me and my iCloud.

Fill in the blanks: I want my blind date to be “blank” and “blank.”

MEGAN: Respectful and fun.

JASON: “Down for a casino heist” and “own an updated passport.”

What are you best at?

MEGAN: Keeping the energy up and spreading good vibes with my enthusiasm! I’ve been nicknamed “Filipina Jumping Bean” and “Pocket Rocket.”

JASON: Connecting people and making people laugh, but mostly, killing it at karaoke.

What do you suck at?

MEGAN: Flying. I once missed a flight because I was having a beer while studying for a Spanish exam at the airport bar. I am now very much encouraged by my friends to have a travel buddy on trips.

JASON: I’m that guy that has to go back home because I forgot something. Name it — concert ticket, wallet, phone, a shoe, etc.

What are you looking for in a date, physically and/or otherwise?

MEGAN: A laid-back, yet fun gentleman who can make me smile and laugh, takes interest in my work and is goal-oriented and passionate about his career. Team Jesus is a plus. Tall, dark and handsome, maybe with muscles… extra plus… major bonus points.

JASON: Great eyes and smile. Can hold a conversation. Someone who’s genuinely interested 92

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in getting to know me as much as I am with them.

Describe your special brand of sex appeal in five words or fewer.

MEGAN: Amazing chemistry and juicy lips!

JASON: Why, yes, that’s my Frenchie.

What do you like least about yourself ?

MEGAN: That I’m just not a morning person…

Rise I shall, but shine I shan’t. You can call me Ms. Grumpy Pants.

JASON: That I can’t grow facial hair.

Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for looks.

MEGAN: Totally depends on the time of day and the day of week. On a good day, when I’m feeling pretty confident in my cutest pumps, I’d give myself at least an eight.

JASON: San Diego seven, but a Sacramento nine.

Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for personality.

MEGAN: What I lack in height, I’d like to think I make up for in personality. I’m pretty short, so that must put me up there!

JASON: ∞ What’s your biggest fear?

Will the night end with a kiss, something more or something less?

MEGAN: If he’s lucky.

JASON: I’m pretty traditional and don’t kiss on the first date. But if it does happen, tequila was involved.

What’s the most important thing in the world?

MEGAN: Loving yourself first so that you can love others. Cheesy, but true!

JASON: Life is all about relationships, so be good to people. We all have things that we’re going through, insecurities, flaws, etc. However, having hot sauce is a close second.

Ask an average San Diegan if the city has a Chinatown, and many will just shrug. Most locals have no idea that in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, an eight-block expanse stretching from Market Street to J Street between Second and Sixth avenues was home to a thriving community of Chinese immigrants. And in the late 1800s, the hottest spot in our city’s Chinatown was Monkey King, an illegal lottery house where yesteryear’s locals went to drink, gamble and puff on opium pipes.

More than a century later, a new Monkey King now fills the same space that once housed the original. This is where Megan and Jason are headed for the first half of tonight’s date, though instead of indulging in the many sinful activities offered here 100 years ago, the modern-day Monkey King will treat them to a flurry of farmfresh, Pan-Asian plates paired with handcrafted cocktails served in large punch bowls.

Monkeying Around

At Monkey King in the Gaslamp, Megan and Jason shared crispy shrimp (left) and a Dim Sum plate called “Happy Buddha” that included bao bun, shrimpa shumai, pork shumai, chicken, shumai, as well as shrimp, vegetable and beef potstickers.

Megan and Jason hit it off while hanging out

Megan and Jason take their seats at the restaurant’s Dragon Table, and they spend a few moments scanning the exposed brick walls and attention-grabbing garden that define the venue’s decor. The two order a few rounds of drinks and opt to split some shareable plates instead of getting their own entrees.

An hour flies by, and before long, it’s time to head to the next stop, Little Italy concert venue Music Box, for a performance by the SuicideGirls’ Blackheart Burlesque troupe. The daters exit Monkey King and hop back into the limo for a quick sip of Milagro chased by an icy cold Corona on the way.

Once at Music Box, Megan and Jason are whisked away to the Owner’s Box, where they have the best seats in the three-level house. Tonight’s show marks the first stop in a 3-month, 60-city tour for these SuicideGirls, who’ll perform their pop-culture inspired burlesque routines for tens of thousands of people across the country. The show begins, and

both Megan and Jason appear to be getting into the sexy stripteases and dance performances.

When intermission arrives, we grab the daters and split them up for mid-date debriefings.

JASON: She’s very outgoing, bubbly, fun and energetic. Everything you could wish for in a date. She’s really engaged, especially for a blind date.

How’s it going so far?

MEGAN: It’s going f**king — oops, it’s going fantastic. Should I refrain from cursing? Could I just say motherf**ker and you’ll just bleep it out?

JASON: It’s going really good. I think we’re having great conversations and getting to know each other. Neither of us have ever been to Monkey King, Music Box or a burlesque show, so yeah, we’re having a great time.

Is this the type of person you’d normally date?

MEGAN: No, never. But in a positive way, let me say that. I’ve never just looked in that direction, that’s all.

JASON: Yeah, I think so! I have a wide range of preferences, as some people may know, but she fits in that range for sure.

What were you first impressions of your date?

MEGAN: Appearance-wise, I was not expecting an Asian gentleman, I don’t typically date Asian gentlemen, but at the same time, he was very courteous, very polite, hilarious and, off the bat, very sociable and approachable. That was enjoyable for me.

What do you think of the way your date is dressed?

MEGAN: Oh my gosh, he’s on point. I mean, first off, it’s a Thursday night. We had no expectation as to where we were going, but he’s very clean and chic and polished, I must say.

Yeah, I love the suit with the chains — great pairing. Very fashionable.

JASON: Perfection. Perfect. @PACIFICSD

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LOVE | BLIND DATE How was your experience at Monkey King?

MEGAN: I’ve never been there before, but the venue was spectacular! I’m an interior designer, so I’m constantly looking around and checking out my environment and seeing what’s going on with the surfaces, the textures, the textiles and everything. And as much as I was attempting to enjoy my date, I was also checking out my environment. And seeing the branches along the walls, I thought that was pretty crazy! But like a really good risk, as far as design is concerned. I was pleasantly surprised, as far as interior design.

JASON: So, I think I was there one time casually for a drink, but I never really noticed the décor. Megan’s actually into interior design, and the detail put into Monkey King was really cool.

There was an upside down tree with roots within the rafters. Little details like that were really cool.

What’s the most attractive thing your date has done so far?

MEGAN: The most attractive thing, I think just being open and honest and telling me exactly what it is that he likes and what he doesn’t like as far as food, culture, relationships and music.

He was very open and honest about his love for country music, being from Atlanta, and I’m like, “Well, that’s not really my thing,” but at the same time, just because we have different opinions about something doesn’t mean that we can’t continue to have an amazing evening.

JASON: I think… most attractive thing that she’s done so far? I think just being totally engaged in our date and our conversation because, that’s not attractive if they’re not engaged, right?

What’s the least attractive thing your date has done so far?

MEGAN: There hasn’t really been a least attractive thing that he has taken action upon.

I mean, if I were to just close my eyes and just hang out with him, he’s a really cool guy. There’s not a dull moment. He’s super chill. We get along… swimmingly? Can I say that? Is that the right adjective? I’m a little tipsy, so I don’t know if my words make sense right now. He’s a super cool guy. I feel like that’s all I have to say.

JASON: I couldn’t say anything. She’s down for whatever. There’s nothing.

Rate your date on a scale from one to 10 for looks.

MEGAN: 9.

JASON: 9.

And for personality?

MEGAN: 10. I’m gonna say 10. He’s super f**king awesome.

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JASON: 9.

What’s your date’s most attractive physical quality?

MEGAN: Physical? This is only because I’m not naturally attracted to an Asian type of person, but I’m going to say that the way that he dresses is on point. The way he puts himself together. And if he weren’t even to say a single word, and I just saw him, I’d be like, “Damn, man, you put yourself together so well. You know how to pair that jacket with those jeans and those shoes.” He was meticulous and very thoughtful about his attire.

I’m going to be extremely honest here, I’ve never gone out with another Asian person. Ever in my life. And Jason, so far, everything has been f**king spectacular, and so, as far as what I can base off the most attractive qualities, he’s super f**king cool to talk to and the way that he perceives himself to me is also very much attractive.

JASON: She’s fun-sized?

What’s your date’s least attractive quality?

MEGAN: He likes country music.

JASON: Absolutely nothing. She was a cheerleader, so I’m attracted to that. She’s got a bangin’ body.

Do you want to kiss your date right now?

MEGAN: Right now? Maybe not. But, a little bit later? Posiblemente.

JASON: Yeah, I could see that happening.

Does your date want to kiss you?

MEGAN: I don’t know! Yup, possible. ¿Posible?

Yeah. Tell him to pucker up!

JASON: I’m not sure yet.

How and when will the date end?

MEGAN: I have this whole game plan in my

head! The show is going to end, and then we’re gonna appear on stage, and we’re gonna do our own burlesque show! Wouldn’t that be so much fun? Maybe it’s just more of like a twirl, he could be twirling me. I don’t necessarily need to strip or anything. I mean, if there’s a request, we shall see…

JASON: So, I know she says it’s a school night, and she apologized like a hundred times because she was looking at her phone, but the only reason why was because of her flight. She’s flying to Mammoth to snowboard, she’s a big snowboarder. So, I don’t think it will be a late night, because her flight is at 9 in the morning.

But the alcohol is flowing, so you never know.

She may just stay up all night...

Anything you’d like to add? Would you recommend this to your friends?

MEGAN: Oh, hell yes! I would recommend this to a ton of my single girlfriends and single guy friends. As far as PACIFIC magazine and what you guys can offer, I feel like you guys are very confident in finding matches that can be very compatible with each other. Seriously, I had no idea what any of this was all about. I was completely clueless. I went in blind — very, very blind! The blindest you can expect! Hell yeah, there will be a second date! Why the bleep not?

JASON: I would totally recommend this to my friends. This was dope. The whole date was great.

Thank you PACIFIC magazine for setting all this up. Hopefully I’m photogenic enough. Can you Photoshop like, David Beckham?

So it turns out this foul-mouthed Filipina isn’t attracted to men of the Asian persuasion, but the daters still seem to be getting along famously, so perhaps the booze mixed with the burlesque show could lead somewhere interesting...

Burlesque Is More

Did a flesh-filled show lead to something more?

With the evening drawing to an end, the PACIFIC crews packs up for the night and leaves the daters to enjoy the rest of the Blackheart Burlesque show unchaperoned.

We follow up a few days later to find out what we missed.

How was your experience and dinner at Monkey King?

MEGAN: The experience was great, the service was awesome, the environment was really fun and cool. The dinner was delicious.

JASON: Monkey King was really good. I actually went there a long time ago, just casually, for like a drink. So I never really tried the food or really paid attention to the décor, but it was really nice. The food was good, the staff were really attentive and on top of it, and the drinks were really, really good, too. Overall, a great experience.

What did you eat and drink there?

MEGAN: We shared a dim sum plate and a couple of shrimp appetizers the waitress suggested. I actually ordered a Ring of Fire

drink for Jason, and he ordered me a tequila drink of some sort — I didn’t catch the name of it. The guys at Monkey King surprised us with, I think it was called the Scorpion Crown or the Scorpion King drink? We were trying to figure out what alcohol was in there, but I honestly don’t recall. It was cool because they served it in a crown. It was a large crown of alcohol. It got me pretty tipsy.

JASON: They brought us out a punch bowl, and it was in a crown, so that was really cool because we didn’t know what was in it. I think it was called the Scorpion King or something like that.

We ordered a bunch of small plates like shrimp, and I think it was like a sampler, but I can’t remember the name of it. I know we decided to order each other a cocktail, and surprise each other based on what we knew of each other. I ordered her something called All Tied Up. How was your experience at Music Box? MEGAN: Oh, that was a lot of fun. That was a fun surprise. It was a great show. Again, everybody was extremely friendly, and the service was great. The entertainment was so

much fun to watch.

JASON: Music Box was awesome. That was actually both of our first times there, so it was a great venue. I would definitely like to go back again. That was our first burlesque show, too. So, yeah, we had tons of fun.

What did you drink there?

MEGAN: Yes, I had a couple glasses of their sparkling rosé. And I’m pretty sure he had a few mule cocktails.

JASON: Yeah, I had the mule and she had the rosé. She was keeping it classy.

Where did you go and what did you do for the rest of the evening after dinner?

MEGAN: Well, it was a school night. Our driver picked us up probably around 11 o’clock, so it wasn’t too late, but it wasn’t too early, I guess. We ended up just going home. I was supposed to catch a flight in the morning, so there was that. It ended up getting canceled because of the winter storm. I was supposed to go to Mammoth. There was an avalanche up there, so it’s kind of a good thing I didn’t go. @PACIFICSD

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JASON: Well, actually, she had an early morning the next day, so we couldn’t really stay out too late. We both understood that. She had to fly out to go snowboarding for the weekend.

So basically after the show, we both went home, but we exchanged numbers. So that was good.

When did you get home?

MEGAN: I’m guessing probably around 11:15 or 11:30.

JASON: Probably 11:30.

Was there a kiss or romantic exchange?

MEGAN: Romantic exchange? Well, I don’t recall a kiss. I don’t recall a romantic exchange. I don’t think there was one.

JASON: No, we just exchanged numbers. There wasn’t really a right time for it because, you know, we were at a bar and we’re not in college anymore. And then, right after that, we got into the car and I live like 5 minutes away, so there really wasn’t any time for us.

Fill in the blanks. I wish my date had a bigger “blank” and a smaller “blank.”

MEGAN: Ooh la la, what kind of questions are these? I wish my date had a bigger… Oh my gosh, I don’t even know how to fill in these 96

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blanks. Oh, you know what? I wish my date had a bigger appetite. Looking back at what we ate, we shared a dim sum plate and then we shared these two shrimp appetizer things. I kind of wanted to eat some more. So, there you go. I wish my date had a bigger appetite and a smaller amount of alcohol. Actually, for the both of us. I got pretty boozed up.

JASON: Hmm. That’s an interesting question.

Let’s see… I would say, probably a bigger, let’s see, I want to say, bigger… No, there’s really nothing to say about her wanting to have something bigger. I would say maybe a smaller tolerance, because I think she drank me under the table.

What’s the funniest thing that happened during the date?

MEGAN: We had a lot of fun the entire time, but one of the funny things I recall is, we had a blast with our crown of alcohol. We were trying to put the crown of alcohol on my head, and I was trying to wear it like a queen. I’m an interior designer, so I was getting such a huge kick out of the ambience and décor at Monkey King. We saw this really huge chair and we started taking photos in it. I can’t remember if that was our own thing or if the photographer told us to do that, but I had a great time.

JASON: I don’t remember any one thing standing out, because we were laughing the entire date. I don’t think there was a moment of silence between us during the entire date.

What was the best part of the date and why?

MEGAN: Man, they were all really good parts.

We had fun conversation, I think we were both just wrapped up in the moment of, not necessarily being on the date together, but just being on a blind date with PACIFIC magazine. He was getting a kick out of the experience of the food, being at Monkey King and the burlesque show. I definitely enjoyed the burlesque show; I’ve never seen the SuicideGirls. They were pretty badass!

JASON: The burlesque show. Because for both of us, we’ve never been to one, and it was nice that she was comfortable with both of us there with (nearly) naked women on stage. That was good. I think that was probably the best part of the night.

What was the worst part of the date and why?

MEGAN: There weren’t really any terrible parts.

I guess, maybe just the very end because it had to end. I really wanted to see the remainder of the burlesque show, but our driver picked us up.

JASON: Probably that we had to cut it early, just because she had to go catch a flight the next

morning. That’s got to be it, because everything else was perfect.

Will there be a second date? Why or why not?

MEGAN: I would say there could be a second friend hangout. I definitely enjoyed Jason’s company, he was a lot of fun. It was really cool hanging out with him and checking out Monkey King and watching the burlesque show. I don’t know that I’m attracted to… I just have a specific type and he just wasn’t it. But he was great to be around.

JASON: I think so. I guess we’ll have to wait and see.

What’s one thing your date really should know before going on another date?

MEGAN: Maybe ask a little more personal questions about your date.

JASON: I don’t think there’s anything. She’s a good dater, she was open to anything. She ate just as much as I did. At one point, we were trying to divvy up the appetizers evenly so that no one was left out. She was the perfect date.

What could have made this date better?

MEGAN: I had a great time. I mean, like I said before, if we had stayed until the end of the

burlesque show, that would have been cool (the limo picked up the couple just before the end of the show). But other than that, I was in great company, enjoyed the food at Monkey King, loved the burlesque show, so that was the only thing. I just wish I could have seen the end (of the show).

JASON: If we had a little more time. I think with both of our energies and everything, it could have been a late night for both of us.

Anything else you’d like to add?

MEGAN: Well, all in all, I had a fabulous time.

And Jason was pretty cool to chill with.

JASON: I think she was a perfect date. She was fun, energetic. The staff at both places, Monkey King and Music Box, and even the driver, they were on point. They were taking care of us.

AFTERMATCH: While we were secretly hoping for the burlesque show to amplify our daters’ hormones, it seems like Jason’s stuck in the friend-zone for the time being. So unless Megan suddenly discovers a newfound appetite for Asian dudes, Jason’s just going to have to try his luck elsewhere. At least he now knows a “fun-sized” interior decorator should one of his vacation rentals need sprucing up.

EDITOR’S NOTE:

Daters’ answers may have been edited for length and clarity.

THANK YOU AND PROMOTIONAL CONSIDERATION TO: EPIC LIMO 858.270.LIMO (5466), epiclimo.com MONKEY KING 467 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp, 619.359.8897 monkeykingsd.com MUSIC BOX 1337 India St., Little Italy, 619.795.1337 musicboxsd.com BLACKHEART BURLESQUE blackheartburlesque.com MATCHMAKER JESSICA PELLIGRA matchandmagic.com

@PACIFICSD

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PROMOTION

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8910 University Center Lane San Diego, CA 92122