June 2014

Page 1

San Diego

Workaholics star

Blake Anderson june 2014

pa c i f i c s a n d i e g o . c o m


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editor's

note

[06.14]

When in Drought

O

n May 22, Santa Monica-based environmental group Heal the Bay released its 24th annual Beach Report Card. Says the report of San Diego’s coastal waters: Some 99 percent of those beaches received A grades for the summer period, up from the previous year’s 96 percent. Look, Ma, we aced it! (In killer whale terms, there’s never been a better time to be released from SeaWorld.) So what’s causing all this cleanliness? Are America’s Finest curbside dolphins — the ones painted by the sewers, pleading: No Dumping, I Live Downstream — finally getting their message across? Maybe it’s the combination of the beach alcohol ban and the county’s proliferation of craft breweries that’s been pulling would-be beach-goers (and their cigarette butts and beer cans) off the sand and out of the water. Alas, according to Heal the Bay, it’s neither of these things. The good news… actually, the good news is kinda hazy. Turns out the local shoreline’s scoring an A is largely thanks to the historic drought. With no rain to rinse the pollution from the streets, there’s been less contaminated run-off flowing into the drainage pipes that dot the coast. An El Nino predicted for later this year will likely even the score, relieving the drought while simultaneously decimating

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the city’s next Beach Report Card. “During wet weather, slightly more than one in five beaches in San Diego County received grades of C, D or F for levels of bacterial pollution,” says the current Heal the Bay report. So, America’s Finest might not get into an Ivy League school any time soon, but at least community college remains an option. Plus the coming rains are sure to help San Diego’s celebrated brewers, who will sell even more beer when citizens realize the city’s drinking water supply is nearly depleted. Scientists say it’s climate change. Televangelist Pat Robertson says, “It’s been cold as the Dickens.” Whichever side you’re on, dear Reader, please enjoy this Water Issue of PacificSD, which offers a happy medium between crashing waves and melting icebergs, pool parties and beach bashes, a sunset sail in Coronado and riding a jet ski in Mission Bay. Water we waiting for?

—David Perloff, Editor in Chief Plastic bags have a life expectancy of 1,000 years, despite the fact that they’re used (on average) for only 12 minutes. And due to the bags’ light weight, they’re more likely to float away from landfills and end up in the ocean. Scientists estimate there are 46,000 pieces of plastic in every square mile of ocean worldwide, with more than six times as much plastic than plankton present in some areas of the North Pacific. Surfrider Foundation encourages everyone to “Rise Above Plastics” and reduce their footprint. Learn more at surfrider.org.


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june.2014

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Amy T. Granite, Brandon Hernández, Natalie Holtz, Brandon Matzek, David Nelson, Frank Sabatini Jr. CO V E R Ph o t o g r a p h y

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Dana Hinton (dana@pacificsandiego.com) MA R K E T ING DI R EC T O R

Alyson C. Baker (alyson@pacificsandiego.com) B USINESS DE V E L OPMEN T DI R EC T O R

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[ PA C I F I C S A N D I E G O . C O M ]

C ONTENTS

San Diego [june

2014]

Features

54 page

WAKE & BLAKE

Workaholics star BLAKE ANDERSON gets wet and wild AT PARADISE POINT

64 page

FOR SHORE

It might be possible to survive the summer without this beach gear, but why try?

ON THE COVER: Blake Anderson was photographed by Dominic Kawaja at Paradise Point Resort & Spa on Mission Bay. Styled by Jordan Grossman with Exclusive Artists. Hair and makeup by Amanda Thorne-Pritchard with Thorne Artistry. Mr. Anderson is wearing a suit by Moods of Norway, $349, moodsofnorway.com. (See story, page 54.) THIS PAGE: Photo by Dominic Kawaja. Blake is wearing shorts by Hurley, $49.95, hurley.com.

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[ PA C I F I C S A N D I E G O . C O M ]

C ONTENTS

San Diego [june

2014]

1o7 page

Blind daters Travis and Megan have a Titanic moment. (See story, page 122.)

june concerts

122 page

INEZ & VINOODH

blind date

DEPARTMENTS CURRENTS

90 Up Scale Growing fish-focused restaurant chain set to hook North County customers

24 Six.Fourteen June event listings

98 The Hole ThiNG A sweet recipe for those who donut understand

21 Must Sea It’s a good day to take another look at the ocean

28 Laughing Stock June’s stand-up roundup

p u l se

33 Art Beat June’s museum and gallery openings 40 Proving Grounds A legendary coffeehouse rises again

46 Fashioning Change How a local nonprofit is turning high fashion into high-tech

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107 Sounds Like A Plan June concert calendar

120 The New Deal Success is in the cards for a local bartender

love

122 Whatever Floats Your Boat A turbulent pool party and a saltwater voyage of Titanic proportions

think

130 Well, Water You Know? A fountain of fun and frightening facts about the world’s water supply j u ne 2 0 1 4

BREVIN BLACH

79 License To Grill A local lineup of killer BBQ joints

groove

116 Spin Cycle June EDM shows

44 Think Outside The Box Office June motion picture preview

t a ste

102 To Say The Yeast San Diego beer — scene and herd




C U RRENTS [FIRST TH I N G S ]

Must Sea

It’s a good day to take another look at the ocean B y N a t a l i e H o lt z

On June 20, surfers and surf enthusiasts worldwide will unite to participate in the 10th annual International Surfing Day, and what better place to celebrate than in the birthplace of Jeff Spicoli from Fast Times at Ridgemont High — San Diego. (continued on page 22)

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cu r r e n t s [FIRST

TH I N G S ]

(continued from page 21)

H

eld each year on or near the summer solstice, the event, initiated by the Surfrider Foundation and Surfing Magazine in 2004, celebrates the sport of surfing while helping to raise awareness about the issues facing the world’s coastal environments. Observers participate in paddle-outs, beach cleanups, surf movie screenings and coastal restorations in every country that has surfing, and some that only have river surfing, which is — whoa, brah — surfing on a river. Even if the only surfing you’ve done has been on a bodyboard in a water-park wave pool, don’t feel left out. Another aim of International Surfing Day is to encourage first-timers to give surfing a try. “The goal is to get people stoked on surfing, but also get them excited about

protecting the environment in which we surf,” says Haley Haggerstone, Surfrider Foundation’s San Diego County chapter event coordinator. The Surfrider Foundation — a nonprofit environmental organization dedicated to the protection of oceans, waves and beaches — will host a free, family-friendly event at Veterans Plaza in Ocean Beach, June 20, from 4 to 10 p.m. with free lessons, free board demos and a free screening of The Endless Summer (movie starts at 8 p.m.).

Tide Game

Surf quotes from famous and/or fictional characters “All I need are some tasty waves, a cool buzz, and I’m fine.” —Jeff Spicoli (played by Sean Penn) in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, 1982 “It’s like the mafia. Once you’re in, you’re in. There’s no getting out.” —Kelly Slater, professional surfer “You’re sayin’ the FBI’s gonna pay me to learn to surf?” —Johnny Utah (played by Keanu Reeves) in Point Break, 1991 “You can either surf or you can fight!” —Lieutenant Colonel Bill Kilgore (played by Robert Duvall) in Apocalypse Now, 1979 “Surfing is out of this world. You can’t imagine the thrill of the shooting the curl. It positively surpasses every living emotion I’ve ever had.” —Gidget (played by Sandra Dee) in Gidget, 1959 “I’ve committed to surfing the rest of my life.” —Lance Armstrong, the winning athlete with the asterisk next to his name “Honest to goodness, it’s the absolute ultimate!” —Gidget (played by Sandra Dee) referring to surfing in Gidget, 1959 “Surfing’s the source man… swear to God.” —Bodhi (played by Patrick Swayze) in Point Break, 1991

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cu r r e n t s [ ca l e n da r ]

s i x . f o u r t e e n

b y C a tl i n D o r s e t

[june

2014]

6/7: yoga for hope Petco Park, Downtown

Admission: $45 / Info: yogaforhope.org/sd Bend over for cancer research with 1,000 yogis performing downward dogs and other poses in centerfield at Petco Park. (continued on page 26) 24

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[june

cu r r e n t s

s i x . f o u r t e e n

[ ca l e n da r ] (continued from page 24)

6/7: Art Around Adams Location: Adams Ave., Normal Heights Admission: Free Info: artaroundadams.org Stroll through two miles of fine art, live art, performance artists, live music and more. 6/7-8: AirShow San Diego Location: Gillespie Field, El Cajon Admission: $16 Info: ag1caf.org Commemorating the 70th anniversary of D-Day, this year’s vintage aircraft show features the D-Day Doll, an C-53 Skytrooper airplane used in three Normandy invasion missions.

6/14: Carlsbad Beach Fest Location: Tamarack State Beach, Carlsbad Admission: Free Info: carlsbadbeachfest.com Beach cleanups, surfing contests, sand-sculpting and more draw 10,000 visitors to North County for this annual day at the beach.

6/20-22: San Diego International Beer Festival Location: Del Mar Fairgrounds Admission: $58 Info: sandiegobeerfestival.com Sip your way through a few hundred award-winning ales, porters and stouts from 15 different countries while learning which cupcakes and chocolates pair best with your sudsy sample. 6/21-22: La Jolla Festival of the Arts Location: UCSD’s Warren Field, La Jolla Admission: $11-$16 Info: lajollaartfestival.org Fine art displays, interactive performances, craft beers and more; proceeds support San Diegans with disabilities. 6/28: Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off Location: Newport Ave., Ocean Beach Admission: Free Info: oceanbeachsandiego.com Cast your votes for Hottest Chili and the People’s Choice Award before taking in five stages of live music, an artists’ alley, and the beachside beer garden and Liquorland.

6/14: San Diego Oysterfest Location: Embarcadero Marina Park North, Downtown Admission: $25 Info: oysterfestsd.com Compete in the Shuck and Suck contest before filling up on craft beers and live music.

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6/1: Rock ‘n’ Roll San Diego Location: Sixth Ave. and Quince St., Downtown Admission: $165-$195 Info: runrocknroll.competitor.com Complete this full/half marathon with live music at every mile to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and to enjoy the Aloe Blacc headlining concert at the finish line.

6/29: San Diego International Triathlon Location: Spanish Landing Park, Midway Admission: $150-$250 Info: kozevents.com Go the International Distance (1,000meter swim, 30K bike, 10K run) or Sprint Distance (500-meter swim, 20K bike, 6K run) to benefit St. Vincent de Paul Village, a member of Father Joe’s Villages.

6/7: UCSD Triton 5K Location: UCSD Campus, La Jolla Admission: $35 Info: 5k.ucsd.edu Run or walk a 3.1-mile course through UCSD’s campus to support student scholarships. 6/7-8: World Famous Mud Run Location: Lake O’Neill Recreation Park, Camp Pendleton Admission: $83 Info: worldfamousmudrun.com Military-style hurdles along this 5/10K trek include tunnel crawls, river crossings and a 30-foot mud pit. 6/14: LT 5K Location: NTC Liberty Station, Point Loma Admission: $45-$48 Info: lt5k.com LaDainian Tomlinson’s 5K raises funds for the former Chargers running back’s Touching Lives Foundation.

il a n - l a el f o u nd at ion

6/15: James Hubbell’s Annual Father’s Day Open House Location: Hubbell’s home in Julian Admission: $50 Info: ilanlaelfoundation.org Local artist James Hubbell invites the public to peruse the living art and structures situated throughout his Julian compound, including the newly constructed Ilan-Lael Foundation building.

What’s Afoot: running & BICYCLING events

E r i k J e p s en

6/7-7/6: San Diego County Fair Location: Del Mar Fairgrounds Admission: $14 Info: sdfair.com If portable roller coasters, fried things and farm animals float your familyfriendly boat, paddle that dinghy to Del Mar.

26

2014]

6/21: Country Run 5K Location: Del Mar Fairgrounds Admission: $49 Info: countryrun5k.com Boot-scoot and line dance through the San Diego County Fairgrounds before it opens to the public. Fair admission included with run ticket.

Do Me A Flavor Self-guided restaurant tours 6/9: Taste of La Mesa Info: lamesachamber.net 6/14-15: Taste of Gaslamp Info: gaslamp.org 6/18: Taste of Little Italy Info: littleitalysd.com 6/25: Taste of Vista Info: vvba.org Padres Home Games 6/2-4: vs. Pittsburgh Pirates 6/6-8: vs. Washington Nationals 6/18-19: vs. Seattle Mariners 6/20-22: vs. Los Angeles Dodgers 6/27-29: vs. Arizona Diamondbacks 6/30-7/2: vs. Cincinnati Reds


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C U RRENTS [ COMEDY]

Laughing stock june’s stand-up roundup C o m p i l e d b y N i c k K n o tt

“A lot of people are wearing t-shirts with pictures of people that inspire them to do stuff. I wear a picture of my son, ’cause no one inspires me to work harder than my son. It’s also a constant reminder to wear a condom.” —Jo Koy on Santorelli, Ansari, Walsh, Koy

6/27: JO KOY @ Humphrey’s by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com (continued on page 30)

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C U RRENTS [ COMEDY] (continued from page 28)

“I quit smoking pot. I gave up weed. I quit smoking it. And that’s mostly because I don’t enjoy looking for my phone while I’m talking on it.” —Brooks Wheelan at Hollywood Improv 6/5-8: Brooks Wheelan @ The American Comedy Company, americancomedyco.com

“The veterinarian had the audacity to say to me, ‘Mr. White, if you’ll just come on back here, we’ll show you how to do this, and next time, you don’t have to bring in the dog. You can just bring in the semen.’ That’s okay, you go ahead and jack off the dog. He follows me around too much as it is.’” —Ron White on Comedy Central Presents: Ron White 6/7: Ron White @ Harrah’s Resort SoCal, harrahsresortsocal.com

“People that don’t like fat people. Quit calling us fat motherf***ers. ’Cause that don’t bother us, you understand what I’m saying? A lady called me that the other day, ‘You fat motherf****er.’ I’m like, I don’t give a damn. You want to make me mad, you tell me Popeye’s Chicken is going out of business.” —Bruce Bruce on Latham Entertainment Presents 6/12-14: Bruce Bruce @ The American Comedy Company, americancomedyco.com

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“Black people don’t really go to therapy. It’s not our thing. I’m not saying we all don’t go to therapy. I’m sure Spike Lee goes to therapy; you know, rich guys. It’s like, why go talk to a weird guy with elbow patches when you can go get high? Both times you’re on a couch, but with one there are chips.” —Aisha Tyler at Smashbox Studios 6/27-28: Aisha Tyler @ The American Comedy Company, americancomedyco.com

“We weren’t raised incredibly religious. My mother taught us everything about being Jewish. She would say things were against our religion, but it turns out it was just bad for the carpet. I scoured the Old Testament looking for something that read, ‘Thou shall not finger paint,’ but there was nothing.” —Gary Gulman on Boyish Man 6/27-28: Gary Gulman @ Madhouse Comedy Club, madhousecomedyclub.com

a nd r e w s m a llz & J a r ed R a s k iind

“You can leave your toilet seat up all the time. I’d hot glue mine open, for God’s sakes, and then sh*t in the backyard; just because I could.” —Jeff Dunham on Jeff Dunham: Controlled Chaos 6/12: Jeff Dunham @ Del Mar Fairgrounds, sdfair.com

“Child support — them motherf***ers are worse than the Feds! I got so many kids now that I just ride through the hood and wave; I don’t stop. It costs too much to stop.” —Mike Epps on Inappropriate Behavior 6/21: Mike Epps @ San Diego Civic Theatre, sandiegotheatres.org

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“I think the reason this relationship is working is because, for the first time in my life, I’m dating an older woman. I’m dating someone who’s 15 years older than the women I usually date, which makes her my age.” —Matt Iseman on Effinfunny Stand-up 6/27-28: Matt Iseman @ The Comedy Palace, thecomedypalace.com

e r ic w illi a m s

d a n dion

“You quit that cushy gig as a judge on America’s Got Talent. What’s wrong with you, man? That was the worst career move since Mel Gibson bought his girlfriend that tape recorder.” —Lisa Lampanelli on Comedy Central Roast of David Hasselhoff 6/6: Lisa Lampanelli @ Casino Pauma, casinopauma.com

“The only thing worse than a roommate walking in on you jerking off is a roommate walking in on you crying to orphan kids singing on the British X-Factor.” —Brent Morin on The Kevin Nealon Show 6/19-22: Brent Morin @ The American Comedy Company, americancomedyco.com


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P U L SE

2-4-1 FAMILY STYLE PUNCH BOWLS SATURDAY & SUNDAY 3–9PM

[ A RT S ]

“The Artist” by Terri Beth Mitchell

art BeAT june’s museum and gallery openings B y A m y T . Gr a n i t e

6/6: “Human Head Collection” by Terri Beth Mitchell and Matt Stallings PreFAB (at the Headquarters) 789 W. Harbor Dr., Seaport Village, prefabsd.com In their second show together, Terri Beth Mitchell and Matt Stallings will display an array of paintings of familiar-faced, pop culture icons, from Bill Cosby’s mug licking a Jell-O pop (on an ugly sweater, no less) to a mash-up of Hulk Hogan (continued on page 34) and the Incredible Hulk. If your eyes could laugh, they would at this not-to-miss show. j u ne 2 0 1 4

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“Twin” by Beverly Penn

pul s e [arts] (continued from page 33)

6/5-7/26: Beverly Penn Lux Art Institute 1550 El Camino Real, Encinitas 760.436.6611, luxartinstitute.org Made from weeds, Beverly Penn’s sculptures may look delicate, but they’ve been cast in bronze, symbolizing the coming together of natural and manufactured worlds. “I’m very interested in not only the plants, but the intersection of where nature and culture make their dividing line, and have boundaries that are crossed over time,” Penn says. “In many ways, they are at odds with each other but also in synthesis.” Opening reception June 6, 6-8 p.m.

“Moment #2” by Monty Montgomery

6/7-17: “Perfect 10” group art show La Bodega Gallery and Studios 2196 Logan Ave., Logan Heights

6/7: 25 and Under Art Contest Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego 1100 Kettner Blvd. Downtown 858.454.3541, mcasd.org

If you haven’t been to the space recently opened by the former gallery directors of The Spot, now’s the time. This event will feature an explosion of live music, street tacos, local craft brews and even a little art. Actually, a lot of art — 100-plus participating artists are submitting their works, all of which are 10-inch squares or cubes. Any medium goes. Opening reception June 7, 5-10 p.m.

“Eyephoto” by Emily Halliday

Besides bragging rights until at least the age of 30, the winner of MCASD’s 25 and Under Art Contest scores a $500 gift certificate to Blick Art Supply and a curator-led tour of any exhibition at the museum. Hundreds of works based on the human eye have been narrowed to 25 finalists; vote for the winners via Facebook or at the showcase reception from 2-4 p.m. at MCASD downtown. (continued on page 36)

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“Esquinas” by Guillermo Srodek-Hart

pul s e [arts] (continued from page 34)

6/7-8/31: “Stories” by Guillermo Srodek-Hart jdc Fine Art 2400 Kettner Blvd., #208, Little Italy 619.985.2322, jdcfineart.com Guillermo Srodek-Hart’s solo exhibition includes photographs he captured in the countryside of his native Argentina. The transporting and sometimes somber images appear to be frozen in a forgotten time, as the places they depict — a butchery, a pharmacy, a barber shop — continue to age and won’t be around forever. SrodekHart, whose work has been shown in Italy’s prestigious Venice Bieniale art exhibition, will be at the opening reception, June 7, 6-8 p.m.

“Bass Player” by Bua

6/20-7/13: “Dream States: The Art of the Subconscious” TPG2 1475 University Ave., Hillcrest 858.354.6294, tpg2.net

“My Head Is In The Clouds” by Linda Halsey

6/11-7/3: Distinction’s 10-Year Anniversary Distinction Gallery 317 East Grand Ave., Escondido 760.707.2770, distinctionart.com Downtown Escondido may not seem like a great spot to see ever-edgy displays of urban and pop-surreal art work, but Melissa Inez Walker, owner of Distinction Gallery/ArtHatch, has been making it happen for 10 years now. To celebrate, Walker is hosting an anniversary show featuring 25 artists from the gallery’s past, present and future. Opening reception June 14, 6-10 p.m. 36

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Subject matter for this group show happening at Thumbprint Gallery’s second location will range from lucid dreaming to the subconscious, humorous and more literal interpretations of dreams, says gallery owner Paul Ecdao. Featured artists include Michelle D. Ferrera, Mr. Benja and Jack Stricker. Opening reception June 20, 5-10 p.m.



pul s e [arts]

B e r nie Ti a no

Artist Spotlight: Nicholas McPherson B y AMY T . G R ANI T E

D

rawing hearts shooting from the eyes of a classmate crush, or horns sprouting from the head of a nemesis, is what yearbooks were made for. These helpless photographs (like the face of a realtor on a bus bench) beg to be vandalized, and Nicholas McPherson is happy to pull the prank. A graphic designer, illustrator and painter, McPherson returns to his rascally youth with “Poortraits,” a series of 300-plus discarded photographs he scavenged from swap meets, eBay and junk stores, imposing his comedic,

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vintage-cartoon-inspired imagery. “I like to feed off their facial expressions and what they’re holding,” says McPherson. “Like this kid — he’s got his boom box and a 40-ounce beer, but the photo is from the early 1900s.” What began as an Instagram post a year ago (@nicholasdanger) has since developed into a self-published book (Family Poortraits, $60). For his solo show at North Park’s Visual Shop, McPherson will transform the gallery into one big scrapbook page, he says, juxtaposing family vacation photos from the 1970s with those snapped during the Victorian era.

“Some of them are so old, and the people look so serious, like they had to hold still for 30 minutes while the photo was taken,” McPherson says. There’s nothing like a trumpet, a brick of cheese and a can of beans bursting from bentover Grandpa’s rear to lighten the mood. “Poortraits: New works by Nicholas McPherson” June 7, 7-10 p.m. at Visual Shop 3776 30th St., North Park visualshopsd.com


California

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proving grounds A legendary coffeehouse rises again

By michael benninger p o rtr a i t b y j e f f “ t u rb o ” c o rr i g a n

Before Jewel was a household name, she was a barista in Poway. In 1992, a then-teenage Jewel Kilcher sold refills, not records, at Java Joe’s — a coffeehouse / concert hall for folk, blues and jazz musicians. One night she was invited on stage, marking her career debut. (continued on page 42) 40

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Joe Flammini stands outside Java Joe’s, his Normal Heights coffeehouse and concert hall.


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performance photos by dennis anderson photography

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ason Mraz cut his teeth at Java Joe’s, too, but not until 2000, after the venue had moved to a new location in Ocean Beach. His frequent performances at openmic nights evolved into regular Thursday night shows. In 2001, Mraz released his first acoustic album, Live at Java Joe’s, which helped launch his career. Many other artists got their start at Java Joe’s, which has existed in seven different San Diego locations over the past 23 years. Most recently, in January 2013, the venue shuttered its third O.B. iteration, the victim of an ill-fated real estate deal made by the property’s landlord. Now, after more than a year away from the scene, Java Joe’s is back — this time in Normal Heights. The latest incarnation of the storied venue opened during the Adams Avenue

Unplugged music festival in April. Owner and namesake Joe Flammini is excited about the rebirth of his business and invites locals to catch a buzz with music and caffeine. “The new Java Joe’s is a venue for pure artistic creation,” says Flammini. “We want musicians, writers and artists to come express their artistic freedom without pretense.” While artists express themselves, patrons can espresso themselves with coffee brewed using beans exclusively from the acclaimed Bird Rock Coffee Roasters. Look for live performances most nights, featuring longtime local troubadours and fresh-faced up-andcomers alike. And don’t forget to tip the barista — she might be America’s next mononymous mega-star. Java Joe’s 3536 Adams Ave., Normal Heights 619.283.1151, javajoessd.com

“The new Java Joe’s is a venue for pure artistic creation”

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CLOCKWISE (from top): Shawn Rohlf and the Buskers perform at Java Joe’s; Sara Petite’s performance during Adams Avenue Unplugged; a crowd gathers on the sidewalk to see Jeff Berkley perform; Java Joe’s open-mic night host Isaac Cheong.


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Think Outside the Box Office june motion picture preview B y N i c k K n o tt

Edge of Tomorrow “Live, die, repeat.” Drama, Sci-fi In Theaters: June 6 Starring: Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt, Bill Paxton A telepathic alien race is hell-bent on taking over the world, and it’s up to Major Bill Cage to stop them. Unfortunately, contact with the aliens puts Cage in a Sisyphean time-loop where he repeatedly fights and dies the same day in combat, over and over.

Burning Blue “Deny nothing.” Drama, Romance In Theaters: June 6 Starring: Trent Ford, Morgan Spector, Rob Mayes A brotherhood of navy pilots comes under fire 44

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after multiple flying accidents cause a federal agent to investigate. The agent exposes a taboo relationship between two of the pilots, which turns the investigation into a scandal.

Obvious Child Comedy, Romance In Theaters: June 6 Starring: Jenny Slate, Gaby Hoffmann, Jake Lacy A newly single, unemployed, pregnant comedian is forced to tackle the real world for the first time in her adult life.

The Fault in Our Stars “One sick love story.” Drama, Comedy In Theaters: June 6 Starring: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort, Willem Dafoe

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Two teenagers fall in love when attending a cancer support group. Based on John Green’s best-selling novel.

The Sacrament

In Theaters: June 6 Starring: Scott Marlowe, Matthew Risch This drama, set during San Francisco’s AIDS epidemic, follows a young male dancer’s struggle to perform with more masculinity. When he befriends a fellow dancer at the company, the two grow closer during a time of great health risks.

How to Train Your Dragon 2

“Live as one. Die as one.” Horror In Theaters: June 6 Starring: Amy Seimetz, Joe Swanberg, A.J. Bowen Journalists travel to a secluded, cult-like community to document a friend’s quest to find his lost sister. When the utopia turns out to be less perfect than meets the eye, the trip turns into a fight to escape “Eden Parish.”

Action & Adventure In Theaters: June 13 Starring: Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler, America Ferrera After a young Viking ends the life-long war between humans and dragons, the two species live in harmony. But a new battle looms as dragon hunters seek to capture the majestic beasts and use them as weapons of war.

Test

“They’re not 21 anymore.” Action & Adventure, Comedy In Theaters: June 13

“San Francisco 1985.” Drama

22 Jump Street

Starring: Jonah Hill, Channing Tatum, Ice Cube Diplomas in hand, two knuckleheaded undercover cops leave high school, making their way to college to indulge in drugs, drinking and maybe a little police work.

Hellion Drama, Comedy In Theaters: June 13 Starring: Aaron Paul, Juliette Lewis, Josh Wiggins When Child Protective Services take his son away, a struggling single father turns over a new leaf to rebuild the family dynamic and get his child back.

The Rover Western, Mystery & Suspense In Theaters: June 13 Starring: Robert Pattinson, Guy Pearce A man endures the postapocalyptic Australian desert in pursuit of his most prized possession, which was stolen from him by a gang of thieves.


“ I t ’ s f u n n y h ow t h e co l o r s of t h e r e a l wo r l d o n ly s e e m r e a l ly r e a l w h e n y o u wa t c h t h e m o n a sc r e e n . ” — A n t h o n y B u r g e ss

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The Signal “R U agitated.” Mystery & Suspense In Theaters: June 13 Starring: Laurence Fishburne, Brenton Thwaites, Sarah Clarke A trio of roadtrippin’ college students awakens in a government facility. The only thing their captors want to know is how they came across the signal.

Think Like a Man Too “This summer place your bets.” Comedy In Theaters: June 20 Starring: Kevin Hart, Michael Ealy, Meagan Good, Taraji P. Henson When a wedding party heads to Las Vegas for bachelor and bachelorette shenanigans, friends of the bride and groom try to out-party each other, setting off a sinful battle of the sexes.

Jersey Boys Musical Director: Clint Eastwood In Theaters: June 20 Starring: Christopher Walken, John Lloyd Young, Vincent Piazza This film adaptation of the Broadway hit by the same name steers away from song-and-dance

careers of the Four Seasons, focusing instead on the four friends’ internal struggles and personal growth.

Transformers: Age of Extinction “The rules have changed.” Action & Adventure, Sci-fi Director: Michael Bay In Theaters: June 27 Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Stanley Tucci, Nicola Peltz, Jack Reynor Humanity shuns the Transformers yet again, claiming mankind no longer needs their protection. But civilization soon calls on Optimus Prime and company to save the planet from another devastating alien invasion.

Snowpiercer “We move forward.” Sci-fi Director: Joon-ho Bong In Theaters: June 27 Starring: Chris Evans, Jamie Bell, Tilda Swinton A super-train traveling through ice-covered wastelands creates a venue for the ever-present battle between rich and poor in Joon-ho Bong’s English-language directorial debut.

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FASHIONING CHANGE

How a new nonprofit is turning high fashion into high-tech B y M i c h a e l B e n n i n g e r / Ph o t o s b y P a u l B o d y

D

ig out that dusty Dior and brush off that barely used Burberry. That’s some kid’s future in your closet. Local nonprofit Designer Donation collects gently used designer apparel and accessories — clothes, handbags, sunglasses, watches and more — reselling the second-hand first-class products 46

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in order to buy technology for San Diego’s underprivileged students. “All these kids without access to a computer and the Internet are going to be so far behind,” says CEO Mick Baca, who founded Designer Donation with friends and fellow San Diego entrepreneurs Jeff Smith and Vinny DiNino. In its first three months alone, Designer Donation donated 50 laptops and tablets. In March, the organization surprised five

students from downtown’s King Chavez High School with laptops in recognition of their academic excellence. In April, it sponsored an essay contest at Sweetwater High School in National City, awarding a laptop or tablet to all 18 students (out of the school’s 3,200) who submitted essays. “The students were all very gracious,” Baca says. “One girl was shaking, and two others cried. It’s been pretty mind-blowing.”


OPPOSITE PAGE: Designer Donation founders (from left) Jeff Smith, Mick Baca and Vincent DiNino. THIS PAGE (from top): These two donated Hermès bracelets retail for $900 (left) and $1,350; a donated Louis Vuitton briefcase worth $2,500; Sweetwater High School students received brand new Toshiba laptops and Android tablets for participating in a Designer Donation-sponsored essay contest on April 11.

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To date, the most valuable donations received have been a $1,300 Hermès bracelet and a collection of 143 dresses from e-tailer Rent the Runway, valued at $125,000. Giving back is the new black, so consider grabbing that good-as-new Gucci and donating it in style. The tax writeoff from Designer Donation may help subsidize your next Louis Vuitton‌ or at least the sales tax. Designer Donation designerdonation.com 866.530.7445

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Un-gloom your June San Diego

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6/13: SURF COOLTURE AT Grant Grill San Diego

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Mingei International Museum surf exhibit, surf videos, surf rock guitarist and DJ beats, hosted craft cocktails and cuisine from Grant Grill’s famed gourmet kitchen.

6/21: REYKA voDka’S SUMMER SOLSTICE

It’s snowing (really!) at Uptown Tavern. Come chill with (hosted) frosty cocktails and hot DJs at summer’s coolest party.

6/22: LEINENKUGEL’S summer launch

Enjoy live music and pints of Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy at this Tavern at the Beach event benefitting Surfrider.

6/26: RE:OPENING OF Rooftop 600

The downtown skyline sparkles anew as Andaz unveils the highest level of hospitality and the rebirth of the city’s favorite rooftop.


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*This event benefits Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park, a nonprofit public institution that collects, conserves and exhibits folk art, craft and design.

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Friday, June 13 @ Grant Grill

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SURF COOLTURE Hosted craft cocktails, cervezas and hors d’oeuvres

SEE: Contemporary and antique surfboard displays from Mingei International Museum* SIP: Hosted craft cocktails by Grant Grill’s decorated mixologist Jeff Josenhans TASTE: Tray-passed cuisine from Grant Grill’s famed gourmet kitchen HEAR: EDM/house DJ beats soaked in surf rock courtesy of Who and Paulo Da Rosa

Purchase tickets at pacificsandiego.com


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Reyka Vodka is made from the purest Arctic spring water and filtered by lava rocks at the zero-emission geo-thermal distillery in Borgarnes, Iceland.

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Saturday, June 21 @ Uptown Tavern

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REYKA VODKA’S SUMMER SOLSTICE: The coolest party on the longest day of the year SIP: Hosted Reyka Vodka cocktails (PacificSD is picking up your tab from 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.) SEE: Frozen wonderland photo booth HEAR: Scorching DJ beats COOL!!!: Reyka-shot ice luges and other frozen deilicacies

RSVP for this FREE event at pacificsandiego.com


[ p r omo t io n ] *This event benefits Surfrider Foundation, focusing on the protection and enjoyment of oceans, waves and beaches through a powerful activist network.

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Sunday, June 22 @ Tavern at the Beach

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water whirled Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy’s Official Launch of Summer

VIBE: Soak in the sun and help save the planet (proceeds benefit Surfrider Foundation*, 3:00 – 5:30 p.m.) SIP: $2 pints of Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy WIN: Custom stand-up paddleboard HEAR: Live music

Find details for this FREE event at pacificsandiego.com


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Thursday, June 26 @ Rooftop 600 at Andaz

RE: OPENING

Experience the highest level of San Diego nightlife SEE: Exquisite new surroundings SIP: Hosted Reyka Vodka, Milagro Tequila, Bud Light Platinum (PacificSD hosted bar from 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.) EXPERIENCE: Unmatched, unabashed and unpretentious VIP treatment HEAR: Powerful DJ beats

free admission for PacificSD readers. RSVP at pacificsandiego.com


THE SMOOTHNESS TO BLEND IN. THE BACKBONE TO STAND OUT. Sailor Jerry’s blend of Caribbean rums lays down a

smooth-as-hell base for any drink. Meanwhile, its bold spiced character stands out, so even fancyass cocktails taste better.

sailorjerry.com RESPECT HIS LEGACY. DRINK SAILOR JERRY RESPONSIBLY. ©2013 Sailor Jerry Rum, 46% Alc./Vol. William Grant & Sons, Inc. New York, NY.


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Styled by Jordan Grossman with Exclusive Artists | Hair and makeup by Amanda Thorne-Pritchard with Thorne Artistry Photographer’s assistant: John Dole | Stylist’s assistant: Bailee Edgington | Shot on location at Paradise Point, San Diego’s Island Resort

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Workaholics’ star gets wet and wild in Mission Bay

n Comedy Central’s hit show Workaholics, Blake Anderson plays Blake Henderson, one of three cohabitating college dropouts who are telemarketers by day, and pranking, partying rage machines afterhours (and sometimes on the clock). Despite the show’s ironic title, for Anderson — who also writes and produces Workaholics — a current of truth flows beneath the surface. And Uncle Blazer, as Anderson calls himself online, is now getting even busier as his new clothing brand makes waves in the fashion industry. Born in Concord, California, in 1984, Anderson was drawn to sketch comedy at a young age. After high school, he moved to L.A. to pursue his comedic aspirations. It was there that he performed with notable improv troupes the Groundlings, Upright Citizens Brigade and National Lampoon’s Lemmings. Off-stage, he delivered pizza and attended Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, where he met future co-Workaholic, Adam DeVine. In 2006, Anderson formed Mail Order Comedy, a sketch

comedy group comprised of himself, DeVine, longtime friend Kyle Newacheck and Anders Holm, whom DeVine had met at the Second City Improv Training Center in Los Angeles. Although online video was in its infancy at the time, the four saw the potential of the medium and got to work recording skits for the web. Some of the Mail Order Comedy videos caught the eyes of execs at Comedy Central, and, in April 2011, the first episode of Workaholics aired. Then, in December 2011, Anderson’s rising star fell, at least for a moment, when, during a house party, he leaped off his roof and onto a beer pong table. The booze-and-drug-fueled stunt fractured Anderson’s spine, which required seven hours of surgery to repair. Nearly a year later, Anderson took a different kind of plunge when he married model/blogger Rachael Finley. Months earlier, he had proposed to Finley immediately upon learning that she had been diagnosed with cancer. Finley ultimately beat her cancer and, in February 2014, the couple welcomed into the world a daughter, Mars Ilah Anderson.

ON BLAKE (opposite): HHJJ Purple Kush shirt by Teenage, $35, boredteenager.com. Shorts by Moods of Norway, $129, moodsofnorway.com. Shoes by Keds, $40, keds.com. Sunglasses by NEFF, $14.95, neffheadwear.com. ON BLAKE (above): Shorts by Diesel, $70, nordstrom.com. j u ne 2 0 1 4

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Now, aside from making babies, Anderson and his wife are also making clothes. Working together, they’ve launched Teenage, a clothing line offering an array of brightly colored, apocalyptic-themed T-shirts. “I’ve always been a T-shirt junkie,” says Anderson. “And I’ve always tried to find the ugliest stuff I could on the Internet or in thrift shops. Then I thought, ‘Hey, why not try and make some of my own?’” With that, the Teenage brand was born. “These shirts are for anybody who likes to get wild and crazy,” Anderson says, “or people who like to break shit. These shirts can do the talking for you, so you don’t have to say anything at a party.” The unique, psychedelic designs are like little else out there. So what’s Uncle Blazer’s secret? “Beer and weed are my main inspiration,” he says. Anderson’s T-shirts seems to be cut from the same cloth that has made Workaholics such a success. Next up from Teenage: Button-ups, shorts and women’s lines. “Rachel is exploring some more women’s stuff, and it all looks really, really cool,” Anderson says. “I’m just looking to experiment.” Find Teenage threads at PacSun and Zumiez stores and stay tuned to Comedy Central for new episodes of Workaholics.

Q&A with “Uncle Blazer” PacificSD: If your acting career hadn’t taken off, what do you think you’d be doing? BLAKE ANDERSON: “I’m almost 100 percent positive I’d be delivering pizza. I did that before, and it was great. There’s nothing like driving around, listening to your own tunes all day. Pretty much, it’s the second best job next to the one I have now.” What’s it like working with your best friends? “Anytime you have a job with your best friends, it’s the best time ever. The only downside is that sometimes we have to share snacks. I don’t like sharing snacks.” How is working with Comedy Central? “They trust us and let us do what we want for the most part. But they’re still ‘The Man,’ and anytime you have to work for ‘The Man,’ it’s bogus.” Do you have a favorite Workaholics episode? “‘The Business Trip,’ where we go out and get our boss to take acid. That one’s got everything.” Who’s been your favorite guest star to work with on Workaholics? “Daniel Stern (from Home Alone, The Wonder Years, City Slickers). He was the coolest guy. Even after we filmed with him, he still emails us. Super cool, down-to-earth, rad dude.”

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Comedian Doug Benson recently declared you Workaholics’ sexiest cast member. What’s that like? “The competition isn’t that tough, really. It’s kinda like being the best of the worst.” What are you working on now? “Me and the dudes are working on a movie right now, and I’m starting to work on a cartoon over at Comedy Central about an intergalactic biker gang that protects earth from aliens.” What’s your favorite all-time TV show? “I really like Curb Your Enthusiasm. But I also like Superjail.” All-time favorite comedy? “Naked Gun, with Ace Ventura as a close second.”

Which actor’s career do you most admire? “Kurt Russell, for sure. He was Captain Ron, and Goldie Hawn is a babe.” What’s your dream role? “I’d love to pack on 200 pounds of muscle and be Sabretooth in the Marvel movies.” If you ran for president, who would be your running mate? “Hulk Hogan. He’s a real American. He’s smart, he’s funny, he’s cute. He’s the whole package.” If you could go back in time, what advice would you give a younger you? “At least attempt to have sex in high school.” What’s your spirit animal? “Squid.”

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What are you digging right now? “I’m really into Cher’s new album. She’s still in the game.” If you could spark up with any celebrity, living or dead, who would it be? “I would say Gravedigger the Monster Truck. It’s a celebrity in its own right. Everybody knows Gravedigger. It would be cool to get high and ride around in a monster truck.” After jumping through that beer pong table, what are you going to take on next? “A Volkswagen Bug. I’m gonna dropkick it, then get really high with Gravedigger and run it over.” Does the carpet match the drapes? “Yes, but the carpet’s dreadlocked.”


Blake Anderson and co-stars Adam DeVine (center) and Anders Holm appear in this promotional image for Comedy Central’s hit show Workaholics.

Still image from an episode of Workaholics.

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C O M E D Y C E N TRA L

n’s Anderso lm fi TV and ts highligh 2011 Traffic Light (FOX) 2011 The Legend of Awesomest Maximus (Movie) 2011 Entourage (HBO) 2011 House M.D. (FOX) 2011-2014 Workaholics (Comedy Central) 2012 Community (NBC) 2013 Loiter Squad (Cartoon Network) 2013 Epic (Animated movie) 2013 Arrested Development (Netflix) 2014 Neighbors (Movie) 2014 Parks and Recreation (NBC)

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Bols of Steel

The One World Futbol is the last soccer ball you’ll ever buy. Guaranteed to withstand the roughest landscapes, it never needs air — even after multiple punctures — and will outlast hundreds of regular soccer balls. No matter how hard you kick it, you can’t kick its ass. Bonus: For each one purchased, a second is donated to disadvantaged kids around the world. ONE WORLD FUTBOL ($39) One World Futbol oneworldfutbol.com

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mer m u s e h t e v y? i r t v r y u h s w o t t e u l ossib is beach gear, b p e b t h g i It m without th enninger b l e a h c i m by

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Work the Angles

This striking multi-triangular towel by Vertty is made of eco-friendly materials and is lighter and larger than its traditional counterparts. A hidden waterproof pocket provides the perfect spot to stash whatever, and the towel’s fast-drying, sand-shedding fabric means it’ll be folded and clean in the car before you can say “isosceles.” VERTTY BEACH TOWEL ($89) Vertty tryvertty.com

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Write as Rain

Soggy scribes, rejoice! Tacoma-based Rite in the Rain offers a line of waterproof stationery that lets writers scribble in the drizzle and doodle in a downpour. Okay, so we don’t get much rain here in San Diego, but we do have plenty of water. Now you can jot down your musings at the bottom of Mission Bay. Snorkel sold separately. WATERPROOF JOURNAL ($15) Rite in the Rain riteintherain.com

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Claw of the Land

Digging to China just got a hole lot easier thanks to this brilliant scooping machine that fits like a glove. Ten Ton Toys developed the HandTrux Backhoe with a handraulic power-grip hidden inside, making manual excavation more efficient than ever. Designed for superior scooping, this made-in-the-USA toy is for safe for kids over three, but large enough for most adults to get down and dirty. Time to brush up on your Mandarin. HANDTRUX BACKHOE ($17) Hand Trux handtruxtoys.com

A Touch of Grass

Bare your soles and cruise the strand on this revolutionary skateboard that could only have been born in San Diego. Determined to build the perfect barefoot board, the phine pholks at Team Phun pioneered the concept of combining a soft, synthetic grass top with a sturdy and stylish 27-inch board. The resulting Astroboard is assembled in San Diego and available in tons of color combos. Best part is you don’t have to mow it. ASTROBOARD ($99) Team Phun teamphun.com j u ne 2 0 1 4

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Wave Watching

Time tubes and capture carves with this first-of-its-kind smartwatch that allows surfers to record speed, wave counts and distance travelled. The Rip Curl Search GPS smartwatch displays real-time stats and syncs with iPhones and desktops, allowing users to share their waves with the world. This surf geek’s dream come true even does a little something called “telling time.” RIP CURL SEARCH GPS WATCH (Coming soon; price unavailable) Rip Curl ripcurl.com/searchgps

Hide and Chic

Imported from Portugal, this jaguarhide beach towel is the real deal. Okay, maybe it’s not real, but it is awesome. Made from 100 percent cotton and measuring 56” by 70”, this reversible showstopper comes with a cross-body leather holster and envelope purse. (The leather actually is real.) Its availability in blue, brown and black means you can change your spots all summer long. Even a real jaguar can’t do that. JAGUAR HIDE BEACH TOWEL ($250) Maslin & Co. maslinandco.com

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The U.S. stock market’s DOW Industrial average at market close on May 15, 2014.

b

b

The DOW’s close on March 9, 2009.


NATURAL HIGHS? Getting to the bottom of the stock market’s new heights By Craig Sewing hit the ball, run the bases, et cetera. Executing the fundamentals In mid-May, the stock market hit an all-time high. This may seem within your financial plan is also key. like cause for celebration, but let’s examine what’s causing the For starters, having a strong relationship with a quality financial increase before getting too excited. advisor is crucial. If you aren’t certain about yours, I’m happy to The bull market has been on a run since March 9, 2009. Plus, make a personal introduction. (More on how that works at the end it hasn’t seen a significant correction — to the tune of 10 percent of this story.) or more — in longer than typical market averages dictate. So, the An advisor will help you understand that all sound financial question everyone should be asking is: Is the market truly on fire, plans require certain components to that apply to any market, or are we due for a major pull-back? especially an uncertain one. In the absence of a crystal ball, I’ll share my opinion regarding Is your portfolio well diversified? Do you understand the tax the market’s current trajectory. implications of your investments? Do you know how much your The U.S. economy is cyclical, which means swings, even wild investments are being pillaged by fees? ones, are considered normal. The fact that Taxes, fees and other pitfalls can act like we’re still pulling out of a recession produces Craig Sewing hosts a radio show weekdays at 6 p.m. on 1170, KCBQtermites, eating away at your retirement. An more uncertainty. Further compounding AM. His weekly television program, The advisor can ask and answer the important the volatility is political influence, which is American Dream (which airs Saturdays questions, acting like a financial exterminator not only unhealthy for the market, but also at 10 a.m. on Channel 4 San Diego) to eliminate unforeseen risks. (especially for anyone watching the news for features interviews with San Diego’s Don’t confuse automatically pulling money more than five minutes) nauseating. financial and real estate elite. out of a paycheck (and putting into a 401k) These political influences affect the For an introduction to one of with an actual retirement plan. The two are market in much the same way performanceSewing’s partners who will not the same. Saving is a good discipline, enhancing substances affected Major provide a comprehensive but not a real plan, unless you understand League Baseball in the late-’90s. At the time, financial analysis free of charge, please visit exactly what’s happening with your money. pitchers couldn’t throw strikes to the likes craigsewing.com or call of Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa without Sewing directly at Most people don’t. fearing they’d knock the cover off the ball. 619.846.9333. These guys were juiced, and so were there My advice is simple: Discuss your record-breaking numbers. Many San Diegans turn to Sewing and his partners for situation — goals, fears, portfolio — with an That peak performance changed when advice. When they’re looking expert. Don’t go it alone. A legitimate advisor the supplements were taken away. An to purchase a home, will analyze your bank and investment unfortunate parallel can be drawn from Sewing’s magazine readers, statements and help you structure a path looking at the stock market. television viewers and radio listeners often rely on the experts forward. Advisors who are part of the San Like McGwire and Sosa, the market introduced in the following pages. Diego network of experts I’ve amassed will has been juiced. It’s had every imaginable often provide this advice for free. They offer stimulus thrown at it, from Harp to Hamp to this service without strings attached. Their hope, of course, is that Talf and beyond. We’re adding words to the dictionary to the advice they provide will create long-lasting, loyal customers stabilize this beast, but still, concepts including “quantitative who refer their friends and family. easing” and “high-frequency trading” continue to confuse So, when we look at the market’s reaching an all-time high, let’s consumers/investors. be happy. Despite the sputtering economy and polarized political Ultimately, there are two economies — the real U.S. economy arena, businesses as a whole are doing well. That’s a good thing. and the one between your own ears, the latter being a hodgeHowever, it’s never about where the market has been or where it podge of noise created by Wall Street lingo, media sensationalism sits now. What’s most important is where it’s headed. and a political spectrum that uses everything as an opportunity to In an October 2008 op-ed published in the New York Times, shut down the other side. billionaire Warren Buffet wrote: “Be fearful when others are greedy, Cutting aside the CRAP — sorry, make that “TARP” and the like and be greedy when others are fearful.” — the things to focus on are what you can control. Whether the The point: All good things can come to an end. Protect yourself. market goes up or down, left or right, the way to win is to ensure Sometimes the best defense is a strong offense, one that can you aren’t screwing up the basics. work even when the market seems to be on steroids. No matter how many steroids a ball player takes, he still has to


RANCHO SANTA FE 92067

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Fairbanks Ranch estate sitting on 1.8 acres! This 7,500 square foot Spanish masterpiece was just remodeled in 2013! 6 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms and a 4 car garage. Circular driveway and an open floor plan opening to a backyard pavilion. $3,995,000 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: The San Diego Polo Club is not a year-round business, however when in season, it produces some of the most incredible polo matches on the West Coast. On any summer weekend, you can learn how to play yourself, too. San Diego Polo 14555 El Camino Real, Rancho Santa Fe 858.481.9217, sandiegopolo.com

IN THE ‘HOOD: Come join the O’Byrne Team at the opening of the San Diego Polo Fields on June 1. It’s one of San Diego’s oldest traditions and best reasons to fuss over what to wear. See you there!

MARKET WATCH: The luxury market in San Diego has never been stronger. We are so proud to see our clients consistently selling their real estate for record values, month after month. The hot summer market spells opportunity for buyers to make moves while inventory is high enough to provide options and rates are low enough to fuel purchasing power. We are very optimistic about the next quarter in real estate. Even more so, we see a bright future for the high-end as the stock market remains very strong this year.

Seth O’Byrne is a passionate local, a University of San Diego Alum and a Pacific Sotheby’s International Realtor. He built his team to service the entire coastline. “We believe that luxury is not a matter of price, it’s a matter of service,” O’Byrne says.

Seth O’Byrne O’Byrne Team of Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty

BRE # 01463479

7855 Ivanhoe Avenue, Suite 110, La Jolla, California 92037, 858.869.3940, SethSold.com, seth@obyrneteam.com


BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: From the land down under, Raglan Public House offers juicy burgers, homemade sauces and a very happy happy hour. For a casual meal, enjoy any of Raglan’s daily specials and wash it down with a drink for less than $5.

MARKET WATCH: The inventory of homes for sale in the Point Loma and Ocean Beach communities is still up from the beginning of the year, but home sales continue to outstrip the supply. We have a surplus of buyers, which creates a great opportunity for anyone considering selling their home.

ocean beach 92107

Beautiful, panoramic, unobstructed views of the ocean. Sit-down vistas from the living room, kitchen and master bedroom in this beautifully renovated home. Enjoy the resort-quality pool with outdoor grilling station. Come home to a coastal paradise.

Raglan Public House 1851 Bacon St., Ocean Beach 619.794.2304, raglanpublichouse.com

IN THE ‘HOOD: The Ocean Beach Street Fair & Chili Cook-off is back to offer attendees eclectic fun in the sun. On Saturday, June 28, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., visitors can enjoy unique, handcrafted merchandise; local food vendors; five stages of live music; access to the beachfront beer garden; a community mural project and more.

Glen Henderson and Shannon Keatley are the brokers and owners of Alliance Group Real Estate. They go beyond the scope of traditional real estate services by providing turnkey financial solutions through their network of professional partners. They are a valuable resource for buyers and sellers throughout San Diego.

Glen Henderson & Shannon Keatley Alliance Group Real Estate Services

BRE # 01870483

3131 Camino Del Rio North, Ste. 1420, San Diego, CA 92108, 619.500.3222, MyOceanBeach.com, team@mypointloma.com


POWAY 92064

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An exclusive and luxurious subdivision with no HOA or Mello Roos. This 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath home was built in 2005 with a 3-car garage on almost 1/2 acre of land tucked away in a private location. BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Home to dozens of outdoor recreational activities, Lake Poway offers beautiful hiking trails, playgrounds, picnic grounds and a quaint lake for boating and fishing. Hike up Mt. Woodson trail and take a picture on the famous ‘Potato Chip Rock’ while you’re there.

MARKET WATCH: It’s a great time to buy or sell. More buyers are looking to purchase before the end of the summer and the start of the school year. More sellers want to move up or downsize as well. Interest rates still remain steady and low. The market is holding strong.

Lake Poway Recreation Area 14644 Lake Poway Road, Poway 858.668.4770, poway.org

IN THE ‘HOOD: Taste of Our Towne, a summer celebration to benefit the POW Foundation, is on June 21 at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts. Indulge in food and wine from local favorite restaurants and wineries, dance under the stars to live music and take something home from the live auction.

Recently awarded the Fifth Place ranking for Century 21 worldwide, Melissa Tucci is a top-producing professional and experienced San Diego Realtor and Broker, providing a superior level of informed, professional real estate services to buyers and sellers in San Diego County. She was recently named the Official Real Estate Agent for the San Diego Padres.

Melissa Goldstein Tucci Century 21 All Service

1820 Monroe Ave., San Diego, CA 92116, 619.787.6852, MelissaTucci.com, Sold@MelissaTucci.com

BRE # 01380034


BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Cory Newman’s restaurant Urban Plates has a delicious concept: farm to plate that won’t break the bank. Expect fresh ingredients from local farms and one-of-a-kind dishes that cost twice as much elsewhere.The restaurant also features a unique open kitchen, two patios and a fire pit.

MARKET WATCH: We have seen a recent peak in inventory, and it has started to dip after the spring rush, resulting in more competition for buyers and higher offers for sellers.

Urban Plates 12857 El Camino Real, Carmel Valley 858.509.1800, urbanplates.com

IN THE ‘HOOD: Here comes the fun — from June 7 through July 6, San Diego’s 2014 County Fair becomes THE FAB FAIR, celebrating the 50th anniversary of an era when British culture changed America. Get your Best Pass Ever, just $24 to attend all 24 days of the fair.

Team leader and owner of his own company, broker Kurt Wannebo is has closed more than 550 sales. His 200-plus five-star reviews online are a testament to his dedication to customer service.

Kurt Wannebo San Diego Real Estate & Investments

3636 Nobel Dr., Ste. 170, San Diego, CA 92122, 858.412.5541, BrokerKurt.com, kurt@sdreai.com

BRE# 01520942

carmel valley 92130

Gorgeous ocean-view home with endless custom features including a spectacular backyard with a waterslide and freeform rock-scape pool and spa. 4 bedrooms; 3 bathrooms; 2,717 square-feet.


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Luxurious ocean-front home featuring spectacular views, 5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, a 27-seat home theater, and more than 8,700 square-feet of living space. BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Belmont Park gets a makeover this summer! Get your thrill at the new Adrenaline Zone, challenge a friend to a game of mini golf, dine at a new restaurant, or participate in a crowd favorite and ride the wave at Wavehouse. For ‘brews and views,’ make sure to check out The Draft — Belmont’s new eatery stocked with 60 beer taps set to open late spring.

MARKET watch: Bay Park home values continue to rise and are up 12.8 percent over the last year. With interest rates and inventory still relatively low, now is a great time to buy or invest. Bay Park’s close proximity to gorgeous ocean beaches, the hiking trails of Tecolote Canyon and access to numerous local hot spots make this a desirable neighborhood to live in.

Belmont Park 3146 Mission Blvd., Mission Beach 858.228.9283, belmontpark.com

IN THE ‘HOOD: On June 15, help honor the dads in the community by participating in the Father’s Day Cruise to Belmont Park. The El Cajon Cruisers will be on hand, displaying their best vintage vehicles from 1968 and before. On August 17, check out How to Build a Sandcastle at Belmont Park, a how-to demonstration by master sandcastle builders The Sand Guys.

John Reeves is a combat veteran, Pop Warner football coach, real estate investor and family man specializing in helping servicemembers and veterans buy, sell or build their own homes.

john reeves Reef Point Real Estate

BRE# 01861983

3914 Murphy Canyon Rd., Ste. A157, San Diego, CA 92123, 877.300.3709, ReefPointRealty.com, info@ReefPointRealty.com



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hit the deck

Drop anchor at San Diego’s newest bayside brunch spot By evan mosner The best new spot to down bottomless mimosas on Sunday afternoon also features coastal views and culinary talent that know no end. Residing in a historic beach house perched on the shores of Mission Bay, Tidal is now host to a Sunday brunch. The new “craft and catch” restaurant located at Paradise Point Resort & Spa sailed onto the San Diego dining scene last month with Chef Amy DiBiase at the helm, curating a thoughtful selection of local seafood and craft beverages that, like the ever changing tides, shift seasonally at Mother Nature’s whim. More than a decade has passed since the celebrated culinarian began navigating her way through the local restaurant industry. Posts at Laurel Restaurant and Bar, Roseville, The Shores Restaurant in La Jolla, and even a role as Chef de Cuisine at Tidal’s precursor Baleen established DiBiase as one of San Diego’s best. She rejoined the Paradise Point team in 2013 in an innovative new position as both Executive Chef and General Manager of Tidal, serving as the driving force behind the conceptualization and launch of the new waterfront restaurant. Her past may be mottled, but DiBiase’s signature style has stayed the course. Her admired approach of presenting modern, light adaptations

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of traditional fare ebbs and flows effortlessly through Tidal’s new brunch menu in dishes like a gluten-free Baja stone crab benedict, smoked salmon and grapefruit salad, and an eponymous burger topped with truffle aioli and egg. Locavores will appreciate Tidal’s lineup of items sourced from beloved local purveyors like Venissimo Cheese, Con Pane in Liberty Station and Mission Hills’ Gelato Vero. Keeping in even keel with the kitchen, Tidal’s bar offers an impressive collection of boutique wine, Southern California craft beers and mixed drinks by cocktail craftsmen Snake Oil. Sipping gourmet press coffee, prepared tableside in bold blue Le Creuset stoneware, feels like a natural fit in this former residence built by a Hollywood producer in the ’60s. Tidal’s casual mid-century modern design draws from that era when the resort housed guests like Johnny Cash, Paul Newman, and Bette Davis, but one no longer needs to celebrity name-drop to snag a table on the checkerboard deck overlooking Mission Bay. In fact, the restaurant is accessible by both land and sea, with complimentary docking at the adjacent marina for those who prefer to sail or paddle up. TidalSD.com


A local lineup of killer BBQ By David Nelson Ph o t o s b y B r e v i n B l a c h

Summertime is all about barbecue, a time when backyard grillers everywhere dust off their aprons, load up on propane and get ready to the light their fires.

Brazen BBQ’s SoCal Chillin’ Chili Burger.

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or those armed with the gift of Hocus Smokus, working BBQ magic is second nature. But for those who’d prefer simply to order seconds — of barbecued beef brisket, pulled pork, tender ribs, boldly spiced sausages and chicken that tastes like it ran from the henhouse to the smoker — a visit to one of San Diego’s smokin’ hot spots will do the trick. In this case, a little something on the side isn’t cheating, it’s par for the course. So save space for sweetsmoky beans, fat and crunchy onion rings, creamy coleslaw, French and sweet potato fries, potato salad, biscuits, cornbread and fried pickles (maybe). And sweet potato pie! The all-American meal, barbecue gives gringos an excuse to say “What the fork” to flatware and eat with their hands instead. But don’t worry about getting messy — a lot of the restaurants spotlighted here offer communal sinks, and their owners will always be pleased to meat you. Brett’s BBQ*

For some, “barbecue” means Brett’s, the fragrant North County BBQ dens whose pitmaster knows by sight when meats like beef brisket, pork shoulder, Texas rope sausage, ribs and turkey breasts have slept in the smoker long enough to be sublimely tender and robustly flavorful. Don’t light a match near the bread pudding with whiskey sauce. (continued on page 82) Brett’s BBQ 1505 Encinitas Blvd., Encinitas 760.436.7427, brettsbbq.com 10550 Craftsman Way, 4S Ranch, 858.487.7427 80

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(* = Author’s favorite)


Piled-high brisket sandwich with slaw and sweet potato fries at Brett’s BBQ.

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The Knock Out from Coop’s West Texas Barbecue, a sixmeat sampler with mac and cheese, collard greens and cornbread.

Coop’s West Texas Barbecue

Red beans and rice, collard greens and buttermilk pie place Coop’s smack in the heart of Texas barbecue country, where “long and slow” results in incredibly succulent hot links, pork spareribs, brisket and (weekends only) housemade sausage. Can’t get enough? The $30.99 “Knock Out” rocks three pounds of meats. Coop’s West Texas Barbecue 2625 Lemon Grove Ave., Lemon Grove 619.589.0478, coopsbbq.com 82

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Cali-Comfort BBQ

In Spring Valley, Cali-Comfort puts the “bar” in barbecue by offering full beverage service, which is relatively uncommon at this type of eatery. The “lown-slow” menu features meats barbecued in the hickory smoker after being seasoned with Cali’s specialty rubs. Specialties include the BBQ fajitas and peach cobbler. Cali-Comfort BBQ 8910 Troy St., Spring Valley 619.337.0670 calicomfortsd.com

Bull’s Smokin’ BBQ

Not much is shy about Bull’s, a Morena District destination that features “indoor and outdoor feeding,” a $69.95 trough of barbecued meats — including peppery Andouille sausage and giant, unusually succulent smoked Angus beef ribs — with sides and cornbread that feeds four or five. Innovative offerings include coleslaw with almonds and pulled pork fries. Bull’s Smokin’ BBQ 1127 W. Morena Blvd., Morena 619.276.2855 bullssmokinbbq.com (continued on page 84)



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Brazen BBQ’s Smokehouse Nachos with smoked brisket.

Brazen BBQ*

Hillcrest’s smokiest hangout was born of multiple blue ribbons won by the owners, whose boldly “Brazen” mission supplies guests big flavors and a galaxy of options. Unique bites include crawfish corn fritters, smokehouse nachos and the So-Cal Chillin’ Chili Burger. Expertly smoked meats amble straight to grandmotherly peach cobbler. Brazen BBQ 441 Washington St., Hillcrest 619.816.1990, brazenbbq.com

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Bubba’s SmokeHouse BBQ*

Famous Dave’s

Bubba’s SmokeHouse BBQ 888 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.551.4227 bubbassmokehousebbq.com

Famous Dave’s 303 Vista Village Dr., Vista 760.726.7866 famousdaves.com

Unless Bill Clinton’s in La Jolla, the only Bubba you’re likely to meet is this friendly eatery on Prospect Street, where fans dive into platters of memorable ribs, juicy chicken, tender brisket and tongue-stinging hot links. Go easy on cinnamon-buttered yams and cornbread muffins — there’s a slab of Bourbon pecan pie with your name on it.

Yes, it’s a nationwide chain, but Dave’s big, bad barbecue restaurant in Vista shoots a mellow vibe as local as “Surf’s up, Dude!” Woodsy, friendly and hyperattractive to eaters eager for huge meals, Dave’s specializes in brisket burgers, “burnt ends” (fans crave these crispy bits of slow-smoked beef), ribs, groaning combo plates and “down home” banana pudding.

BBQ House

Not far from Hodad’s, BBQ House is another Ocean Beach institution that keeps locals well fed between catching waves and inspecting tattoos. It’s modest, but the food makes regulars out of first-timers, especially the fall-off-the-bonetender pork ribs served “just soaking in BBQ sauce” with tangy beans and righteously rich macaroni and cheese. BBQ House 5025 Newport Ave., Ocean Beach 619.222.4311, bbqhouseob.com (continued on page 86)


COME FOR THE

COCKTAILS STAY FOR A MEAL

MENTIONED IN FOOD & WINE’S “BEST BAR FOOD IN THE US”

San Diego’s premier spot for late night dining

Our kitchen is open nightly until 1am

The Lion’s Share 629 Kettner Boulevard San Diego, CA 92101 619.564.6924 lionssharesd.com facebook.com/lionssharesd

EAT, DRINK & PLAY CRAFT BEER / COCKTAILS / ARCADE

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Felix’s BBQ With Soul

Is it Louisiana-style fried green tomatoes, murky-like-a-bayou gumbo or lively New Orleans music that make Felix’s restaurants in Oceanside and San Diego’s Market Creek Plaza irresistible? Barbecued baby backs, smoked tri-tip, rib tips and pulled pork compete with Southern specialties (fried chicken, Alabama grilled pork shank) and soul food sides like hoppin’ John and candied yams. One-of-a-kinders include sweet potato cheesecake.

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Smoked BBQ chicken at Felix’s BBQ With Soul.

Felix’s BBQ With Soul 3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd., Oceanside 760.439.7072, felixsbbq.com 342 Euclid Ave., Lincoln Park 619.546.9120

Blondie’s

Yes, there is an actual Blondie, and she’s generally at the counter to welcome guests to this newcomer on bustling Garnet Avenue in Pacific Beach. Reading the signs that cover the woodsy walls helps pass the time while waiting for specialties like pulled pork sandwiches, juicy ribs, slowcooked tri-tip and, notably, green beans simmered with bacon. Blondie’s 2015 Garnet Ave., #102, Pacific Beach 858.274.4211, blondiesbbq.com

The Barbecue Pit

If the mention of Texas-style pit barbecue gets your mouth watering, you may already be familiar with The Barbecue Pit restaurants in National City and Fletcher Hills, which, since 1947, have been slinging serious chow like immense ham, beef, hot link and chicken dinners, along with split pea soup and pies so tasty you’ll want to take a wedge home. The Barbecue Pit 920 E. Plaza Blvd., National City 619.477.2244 thebarbecuepitrestaurant.com 2388 Fletcher Pkwy., El Cajon 619.462.5434 (continued on page 88) 86

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Smoked chicken wings at LW’s BBQ.

LW’s BBQ

Like many traditional barbecue joints, LW’s is family-owned and operated, and the care shows in the deep, rich flavors and succulence of meats that smoke over hickory hardwood for up to 14 hours. This favorite in the heart of Clairemont lets you get messy with a pile of chili-cheese fries before moving on to expertly smoked ribs, brisket, pork and chicken. Banana cake? Oh, yes! LW’s BBQ 3057 Clairemont Dr., Clairemont 619.275.2888, lwbbq.com 88

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Phil’s BBQ

Phil Pace’s three mammoth restaurants in Sports Arena, San Marcos and Santee (plus a smaller pub at Lindbergh Field) make him the 800-pound gorilla of the S.D. barbecue biz. Lines form before noon for Phil’s famous BBQ Broham pulled pork sandwiches, colossal onion rings, super-succulent baby back and beef ribs and mesquite-grilled chicken. Phil’s BBQ 3750 Sports Arena Blvd., Point Loma 619.226.6333, philsbbq.net 579 Grand Ave., San Marcos 760.759.1900 9816 Mission Gorge Rd., Santee 619.449.7700


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up scale

Growing fish-focused restaurant chain set to hook North County By David Nelson P H O T O B Y JO H N MI R E L ES

Business has been going swimmingly for Pacific Beach’s Fish Shop, which is about to have another sibling. The popular Garnet Avenue market and grill, whose sister restaurant in Hermosa Beach opened in April, will soon serve North County clientele from a prime location along South Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas. “The new restaurant will be very similar to the one in PB,” says co-owner Doug Sondomowicz. “We’ll have a fish case so people can buy for takeout, and the expanded wine selection will offer good pairings with our dishes.” (continued on 92)

Fish Shop owners (from left) Doug Sondomowicz, Billy Ramirez and Eric Leitstein. Photo shot at Pacific Beach Fish Shop.

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Serve Responsibly. Modelo Especial Beer. Imported by Crown Imports, Chicago, IL


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CLOCKWISE (from top left): PB Fish Shop’s Grilled Salmon Plate, shrimp appetizer, freshly shucked oyster shooter and Seared Ahi Salad.

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A L L P H O T O S T H I S PA G E B Y J O H N M I R E L E S

S

ondomowicz’s partners in the three Fish Shops are Billy Ramirez and Eric Leitstein, and all three are behind other popular San Diego restaurants and bars. Ramirez and Sondomowicz co-own PB’s The Duck Dive and Pacific Beach Shore Club; Leitstein’s local venues include Pacific Beach AleHouse, the new Union Kitchen & Tap in the Gaslamp and the original Union Kitchen & Tap location in Encinitas, located a few doors south on Coast Highway from the new Fish Shop. “Both Doug and I live in the area,” says Leitstein of the new restaurant’s neighborhood. “When St. Germain’s became available, we jumped on it.” St. Germain’s had been a popular eatery for decades. Amping up its former site and the coastal city’s lively downtown at large, Encinitas Fish Shop will feature an outdoor beer and wine garden with local craft brews on tap and blue skies overhead. Leitstein promises the freshness of Fish Shop’s fare will match that of its décor. “Like at our other restaurants, we’ll do everything from scratch — salad dressings, sauces, fries, onion rings,” he says. “And we get fish delivered

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six days a week.” Oyster fans are invited to come out of their shells on Thursdays, when staffers shuck 1,500 oysters, which are then sold at a buck each to a standingroom-only crowd. (Same deal goes for the Pacific Beach Fish Shop.) “We’re a family-oriented restaurant,” says Ramirez, “and a familyfriendly, dog-friendly part of the neighborhood.” Pacific Beach Fish Shop 1775 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach 858.483.1008, thefishshoppb.com Hermosa Beach Fish Shop 719 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach 310.372. 3480, thefishshophermosabeach.com Encinitas Fish Shop 1010 S. Coast Hwy. 101, #103, Encinitas — coming soon (continued on page 94)


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Grilled Mahi Taco Plate at Pacific Beach Shore Club.

To Beach His Own

Fish Shop partners Billy Ramirez and Doug Sondomowicz also own two top Pacific Beach hangouts, PB Shore Club and The Duck Dive. The former is the famed beachfront bar and grill at the southern end of Grand Avenue, offering frozen Red Bull drinks, a bikini-clad crowd by day and (as the venue’s slogan goes) “sunsets served daily.” “We wanted to build a true Southern California beach bar,” says Ramirez. They got what they wanted. The Duck Dive, whose name represents a surfing maneuver (for dodging incoming breakers), that distinguishes real wave-riders from hodads, is a few blocks north on Mission Boulevard. Sondomowicz describes the place as part gastropub, part surf lounge. “It’s casual, there’s a nice little patio, and dogs are welcome,” he says. The décor sends the atmosphere sailing over the waves with a backlit artwork composed of hundreds of slices of surfboards and murals that make you feel your dining under the boardwalk and amongst the waves. “It’s a little higher-end than most places in PB,” Ramirez says. “It’s a little more upscale.” Pacific Beach Shore Club 4343 Ocean Blvd., Pacific Beach 858.272.7873, pbshoreclub.com The Duck Dive 4650 Mission Blvd., Pacific Beach 858.273.DUCK (3825), theduckdive.com (continued on page 96)

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The Duck Dive’s Classic Shrimp and Grits.


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ABOVE: Inside the new Union Kitchen & Tap in the Gaslamp. BELOW: Shrimp Ceviche at Pacific Beach AleHouse.

What Ales You

Eric Leitstein’s Pacific Beach AleHouse opened in 2008 and wasted no time becoming one of the most popular addresses at the beach. The oceanview spot with a heated patio and rooftop deck (across from Firehouse and adjacent to PB Shore Club) serves craft beers brewed on-site. “It’s what San Diego is all about,” Leitstein says. “We have an amazing location, an amazing brewer, great food, great beer and an awesome view.” Leitstein’s Union Kitchen & Tap, located at the Swami’s end of downtown Encinitas, recently opened an even larger branch in Gaslamp, where it took over the vast Fifth Avenue space vacated by Donovan’s Prime Seafood. “I think this is one of the best locations in downtown San Diego,” Leitstein says. “We have a huge patio, live music for weekend brunch and a great vibe.” On-tap for lunch and dinner is high-end fare from the former sous chef at Oceanaire, chef Sean Langlois, who created a seafood-rich menu of New American cuisine. A whiskey wall and DJs spinning on weekend nights seem poised to keep the evenings as lively as they’ve been since the place opened in early May. Pacific Beach AleHouse 721 Grand Ave., Pacific Beach 858.581.BEER (2337), pbalehouse.com Union Kitchen & Tap 1108 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas 760.230.BEER (2337), localunion101.com Union Kitchen & Tap 333 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.795.9463, gaslampunion.com

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A sweet recipe for those who donut understand R e c i p e a n d p h oto s b y B r a n d o n M at z e k

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eeing fresh summer produce hitting market stands across the city makes my culinary senses start to buzz. And when I’ve got a wonderfully sweet stash of ripe strawberries on hand, I like to make these Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts. (They’re baked, not fried, which makes them healthy… right?) This recipe starts with a handful of fresh strawberries being tumbled into a food processor, and then blitzed to a chunky puree. Some of the puree is mixed into tangy buttermilk doughnut batter flavored with lemon and vanilla. The rest is mixed into a sweet, buttermilk glaze that, when drizzled over the doughnuts, looks like a candy coating flecked with bits of red. Each bite of these light and airy doughnuts is sweet, tart and incredibly flavorful. This recipe calls for a special doughnut pan. I purchased mine on Amazon.com; others are available at Williams-Sonoma, Sur La Table, Target, or Bed, Bath & Beyond.

Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts Ingredients

For the doughnuts: 6–8 strawberries, hulled and sliced 1 cup all-purpose flour 3/4 tsp. baking powder 1/4 tsp. baking soda 1/3 cup sugar 1/2 tsp. fine grain sea salt 2 tbsp. unsalted butter, melted 1/3 cup buttermilk, plus more as needed 1/2 tsp. vanilla 1/2 tsp. lemon juice 1 egg For the glaze: 2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted 2 tbsp. buttermilk

Process Be prepared. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place a rack in the middle of the oven and lightly grease a doughnut pan (I used non-flavored cooking spray). Place sliced strawberries in a small food processor, and pulse until finely chopped (or a chunky puree). Chopping by hand also works fine. Measure 1/4 cup of finely chopped strawberries for the doughnut batter, and another 1/4 cup for the glaze. Save leftovers for morning pancakes or evening ice cream.

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Batter up. Sift flour, baking powder and baking soda into a large bowl. Whisk in sugar and sea salt, then set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter, buttermilk, vanilla, lemon juice, egg and 1/4 cup finely chopped strawberry until well combined. Add the liquid mixture to the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix here. If the mixture looks a little on the thick side, stir in a splash of buttermilk to loosen it up a bit. Bake and cool. Fill the wells of the doughnut pan 3/4 of the way with batter. I used a pastry bag here; a spoon works, too. Bake until the doughnuts spring

back when touched (9-10 minutes), and the bottoms of the doughnuts (the side that’s cooking in the well) are lightly golden. Let the doughnuts cool for 2 minutes in the pan, and then transfer to a rack to cool completely. Glaze. While the doughnuts are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together confectioners sugar and buttermilk until smooth. Stir in 1/4 cup finely chopped strawberry. Dip one side of each doughnut into the glaze, and then place back on the cooling rack. I set my cooling rack over a piece of parchment paper to catch dripping glaze. Let the glaze set, and enjoy.


Q: What do you see when the Pillsbury Doughboy bends over in front of you? A: Dough nuts.

Full Circle Thanks to the Salvation Army — which, in 1938, first honored the brave souls who served doughnuts and other heart-warming foods to soldiers on the frontlines in World War I — June 7 (and the first Friday of every June) is National Doughnut Day. Find more info: donutdayusa.com j u ne 2 0 1 4

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To Say the Yeast San Diego beer — scene and heard

B y B r a n d o n H e r n á n d e z / Ph o t o s b y S a r a N o rr i s ( u n l e s s n o t e d )

It’s no easy task keeping up with more than 90 breweries in a region considered by most as the epicenter of craftbrewing creativity and quality, but our thirst is as insatiable as our desire to bring you the best and beeriest news that’s fit to print. Belly up to this monthly column for the latest and greatest on San Diego County’s robust beer scene.

Do Me a Flavor New brews to peruse

Green Flash Road Warrior IPA: Big-hop, low-alcohol “session” beers are de rigueur these days among hopheads who want to go big without going home due to excess inebriation, but this Mira Mesa-based brewery is bucking that trend, introducing this heavy hitting “un-sessionable” rye India pale ale coming in at a bruising 9% ABV. Spiciness from the infusion of rye matches 102

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up nicely with piney, zesty notes from Columbus and Mosaic hops. 6550 Mira Mesa Boulevard, Mira Mesa, greenflashbrew.com Fallbrook Coffee & Cream: Thinking of coffee beers evokes images of porters and stouts that look as much like java as they taste. But this nanobrewery in the heart of its namesake North County township is exploring the lighter side with this blonde-hued, easy-drinking, 6% ABV Englishstyle brew. Fallbrook Coffee & Cream is served from a nitro

tap to bring on a velvety texture that goes remarkably well with light notes of earthy roastiness from locally roasted coffee beans. 136 N. Main Avenue, Fallbrook, fallbrookbrewing.com

ON-TAP

More breweries coming soon Council Brewing Company: The family that brews together, stays together. Just ask Curtis and Liz Chism, a couple so in love with each other and the art of


BREWERY TOURS San Diego has nearly 100 breweries. We’ll take you to the hidden gems.

CLOCKWISE (from top): Green Flash Brewing Company in Mira Mesa; freshly poured brews at Council Brewing Company; the Road Warrior IPA at Green Flash Brewing Company.

URBN St. Brewery: What happens when an executive chef, a senior brewer and a seasoned barman from Stone Brewing Co. team up with a Connecticut coal-

Ti m s ta hl

fermentation that they’re opening a nanobrewery (the smallest class of brewing companies, from a production standpoint) in the burgeoning beerscape of Kearny Mesa. Straight out of the gate, expect pro spins on award-winning dark beers including an imperial oatmeal porter and a rotating stock of sour beers. 7705 Convoy Court, Kearny Mesa, councilbrew.com

fired pie mogul? East County residents will find out when this brewpub — the latest link in a chain that includes BASIC and two URBN pizza spots — opens on El Cajon’s main drag. Beers figure to be approachable and food-friendly, as is the case with a brown ale that tastes almost exactly like a Bavarian pretzel. 110 N. Magnolia Avenue, El Cajon, urbnpizza.com

SEE WHAT’S ON TAP Call 619.573.4242 or visit SanDiegoBreweryTour.com TCP: 22808B

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Inside the bar at Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens.

BEERLY BELOVED Something old, something new, something borrowed, something brew

AleSmith Expansion: Considered by many to be the best brewing company in the world, this award-winning operation has remained smallish despite tripling its capacity over the past half-decade. Now, having signed a lease on a 100,000-plus-squarefoot building just south of his current Miramar facility, owner Peter Zien is ready to go nextlevel. The move will quintuple the company’s space and up annual production tenfold, allowing Zien and his crew finally to sate thousands of thirsty fans. 9990 Empire Street, Miramar, alesmith.com

South Park Brewing Co.: Already owners of acclaimed brewpub Monkey Paw as well as hotspots Small Bar and Hamilton’s Tavern, Scot and Karen Blair announced they are taking over a former bike shop south of the latter to build South Park Brewing Company. Beers will include reliably good IPAs, red and dark ales, and numerous experimental and collaboratively produced brews. The food menu will be seafood-centric and include sandwiches, fusion cuisine and a to-go fish counter. 1517 30th Street, South Park, southparkbrewing.com

Hops to It

Upcoming beer events San Diego International Beer Festival: “Five sessions,

400 beers, one glass.” It’s the tagline for the San Diego County Fair’s annual fermentation fête, which shows off local breweries alongside storied operations from nearly 200 countries. Throw in a VIP session where guests can rub elbows with San Diego brewers and take seminars on brewing and food pairings, and it’s enough to make fairgoers forget all about all the fried food, tilt-awhirls and Jacuzzi shows. June 2022, San Diego County Fair, Del Mar, sandiegobeerfestival.com Stone Sour Fest: Sour beers represent the furthest extent to which the brewing envelope can be pushed. Tart, fruity, barnyard

and downright funky in some cases, they require great expertise to produce. As such, they are hard to come by and, when found, often cost a pretty penny, making this annual event — featuring arguably the most extensive and special arrays of sour ales and lagers — one of the most highly anticipated days of the year for beer enthusiasts. June 22, 10 a.m., Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens, Escondido, stonebrewing.com

Brandon Hernández is a native San Diegan with a fervent passion for craft beer and the talented individuals who produce it. He is a Senior Communications Specialist for Stone Brewing Co., an editor for Zagat, has served as a consultant to Food Network and contributes to national and San Diego-based magazines including The Beer Connoisseur, Imbibe, Wine Enthusiast, West Coaster and more. The first publication for which he ever wrote about beer was PacificSD. Follow him on Twitter: @sdbeernews and @offdutyfoodie. 104

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Enjoy Responsibly

© 2014 Shock Top Brewing Co., Shock Top® Lemon Shandy Belgian-Style Wheat Beer, St. Louis, PACIFIcSANDIEGO.com j u ne 2 0Flavored 14 105MO


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Forbes magazine named dance-pop megastar Lady Gaga (born as Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta in 1986) one of “The World’s 100 Most Powerful Women” in 2013, thereby elevating her to the ranks of heavy hitters including Queen Elizabeth II, Michele Obama and Hillary Clinton. Gaga’s adoring fans (“little monsters,” as she calls them) also make her one of the most popular people on social media with more than 65 million Facebook “likes” and 41.4 million Twitter followers. Gaga’s most recent album, Artpop, dropped in November 2013, preceded by its megahit singles “Applause” and “Do What U Want.” In true, outrageous Gaga-fashion, the accompanying artRAVE: The ARTPOP Ball tour making a pit stop in America’s Finest will flaunt flashy theatrics including a giant blue octopus costume, a seashell bikini with cleverly placed leaves and a bejeweled body suit with golden wings.

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Sounds Like a Plan june concert calendar B y C a tl i n D o r s e t

6/1: Aloe Blacc @ Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon, runrocknroll. competitor.com This R&B/soul singer-songwriter performed vocals on Avicii’s 2013 smash hit “Wake Me Up” and is currently enjoying the success of his single “The Man.” 6/1: Los Lobos @ Illumina Outdoor Amphitheatre, ljfa.org Grammy Award-winning Latin rock band most known for its 1987 cover of Ritchie Valens “La Bamba.” 6/1: Pete Yorn @ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com This alt. rock singer-songwriter collaborated with actress Scarlett Johansson in making their 2009 album, Break Up.

6/2: OneRepublic @ Sleep Train Amphitheatre, ticketmaster.com Colorado rockers touring to promote their recent album, Native, released April 14. 6/3: Kelis @ House of Blues, hob.com This R&B songstress’ song “Milkshake” brought all the boys to the yard in 2003. 6/4: Between the Buried and Me @ House of Blues, hob.com Progressive metal band set to release a DVD this fall. 6/4: The Jezabels @ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com Four-piece indie rock band from down unda.

6/5: Tech N9ne @ House of Blues, hob.com Rapper Aaron Dontez Yates (aka Tech N9ne) released his album Strangeulation on May 6. 6/6: Nashville Pussy @ Soda Bar, sodabarmusic.com Songs from this rock and roll foursome were featured in TV shows Sopranos and Entourage. 6/5: Hands Like Houses @ SOMA, somasandiego.com Australian rockers on the road with Slaves, Miss Fortune and Alive Like Me. 6/5: Danity Kane @ Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com Sean “Diddy” Combs’ all-girl R&B creation enjoyed mainstream success in 2008 with hit the single “Damaged.” 6/6: Man Overboard @ SOMA, somasandiego.com Pop punk quintet headlining the North American Heart Attack Tour.

6/6: T-Pain @ FLUXX, fluxxsd.com Chart-topping hits “I’m Sprung” and “I’m N Luv (Wit a Stripper)” launched this hip-hop singersongwriter’s career back in 2005. 6/6: Logic @ House of Blues, hob.com Hip-hop artist promoting his upcoming album, While You Wait, with a tour of the same name. 6/7: Air Supply @ Pechanga Resort & Casino, pechanga.com Eighties pop rock band most recognized for the sappy love tunes, “All Out of Love” and “Making Love Out of Nothing At All.” 6/7: Third Eye Blind @ San Diego County Fair, sdfair.com San Franciscan alt. rockers busy working on their fifth and final album. 6/7: Lionel Richie and CeeLo Green @ Sleep Train Amphitheatre, ticketmaster.com Former The Voice coach CeeLo Green joins Lionel Richie for the R&B/soul All the Hits All Night Long summer tour. (continued on page 110)

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This alt. rock band’s rising single, “Sleeping With A Friend,” is from the new Pop Psychology album, which dropped in April.

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6/8: Saosin @ House of Blues, hob.com Hardcore rockers who have toured with Linkin Park, Avenged Sevenfold, and Coheed and Cambria, among others.

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Las Vegas-based rapper on his State of Mind U.S. tour.

6/12: Love and Theft @ House of Blues, hob.com These country rockers won “Duo Video of the Year” honors at the 2013 CMT Music Awards.

6/8: Max @ The Irenic, casbahmusic.com This pop singer-songwriter (and sometimes-actor-dancermodel) released his second EP, The Say Max, on May 13.

6/13: Darius Rucker @ San Diego County Fair, sdfair.com The former Hootie & The Blowfish front-man is now a hugely successful country singer.

6/8: Voz de Mando @ San Diego County Fair, sdfair.com Four-piece Tex-Mex band that performs en Español.

6/14: Fu Manchu @ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com O.C. stoner rock band with a new album, Gigantoid, released April 29.

6/9: Il Volo @ Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com Italian pop/opera trio touring the U.S. and Canada through the end of June.

6/14: Hunter Hayes @ San Diego County Fair, sdfair.com Twenty-two-year-old country singer racking up hits with singles “Wanted,” “Storm Warning” and “I Want Crazy,” to name a few.

6/10: The Fray @ SDSU’s Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre, as.sdsu.edu These pop rockers became an overnight success with their 2005 breakout hit, “Over My Head (Cable Car).” The Fray also performs at Pechanga Resort & Casino on 6/13. 6/10: Jimmie Vaughan @ Ramona Mainstage, ramonamainstage.com Grammy Award-winning blues rock singer and guitarist from Texas.

D izzy G a r ci a

6/11: Joe Nichols @ San Diego County Fair, sdfair.com The “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off” country crooner performed at Anna Nicole Smith’s funeral.

6/14: Ronnie Milsap @ Sycuan Casino, sycuan.com The six-time Grammy Award-winning country legend will be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame later this year. 6/15: Ramón Ayala @ San Diego County Fair, sdfair.com Mexican Norteño musician and songwriter known as the “King of the Accordion.” 6/15: Matt Nathanson @ Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com Most recognized for his 2008 hit “Come On Get Higher,” this folk rocker is currently on tour with Gavin Degraw.

6/17: Steve Winwood @ Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com Rolling Stone magazine ranked this rocker at No. 33 on its list of “100 Greatest Singers of All Time.” 6/17: Sage Francis @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com The self-proclaimed “forefather of indie-hop” will perform in U.S. and Canadian cities throughout summer on his Copper Gone tour. 6/18: Zendaya @ San Diego County Fair, sdfair.com This 17-year-old pop singer is enjoying the success from her first and current single, “Replay.” 6/18: Anuhea @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Hawaiian folk pop singersongwriter. 6/19: Murs @ The Casbah, casbahmusic.com Rapper Nick Carter (who goes by the acronym MURS — “Making Underground Raw Shit”) is signed to Tech N9ne’s Strange Music label. 6/19: Creedence Clearwater Revisited @ San Diego County Fair, sdfair.com The former bassist (Stu Cook) and drummer (Doug Cliffford) of Creedence Clearwater Revival formed this wildly successful rock cover band in 1995. 6/19: Uh Huh Her @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Indie/electro pop girl band touring to promote its recent album, Future Souls, which dropped in March. (continued on page 112)

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6/20: Smokey Robinson @ San Diego County Fair, sdfair.com This mid-’70s Motown singersongwriter once had his own line of gumbo — Smokey Robinson’s “The Soul is in the Bowl” Gumbo.

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6/20: Cultura Profética @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Puerto Rican reggae band on its Viva La Cultura tour. 6/20: Ray-J @ UCSD’s Porter’s Pub, porterspub.com R&B singer-songwriter mostly known for his 2008 single, “Sexy Can I,” and his 2007 sex tape with Kim Kardashian.

6/21: Souls of Mischief @ UCSD’s Porter’s Pub, porterspub.com Oakland-based hip-hop foursome comprised of emcees A-Plus, Opio, Phesto and Tajai.

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6/22: Grupo Intocable @ San Diego County Fair, sdfair.com This “Untouchable Group” of Norteño musicians has amassed seven Latin Grammy awards and two American Grammy awards over the years. 6/24: The Winery Dogs @ Ramona Mainstage, ramonamainstage.com Hard rockers out of L.A., on tour to promote their 2013 self-titled debut album.

These two ’90s R&B singers dropped their Love, Marriage & Divorce collaborative album in February.

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6/22: Michael Franti & Spearhead @ SDSU’s Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre, as.sdsu.edu Songs from this hip-hop/reggae/ jazz band have been featured in soundtracks for films Good Burger, Last Holiday and Mystery Men.

6/21: mewithoutYou @ Epicentre, epicentreconcerts.org These indie rockers travel on a customized 1976 charter bus, which runs on vegetable oil.

San Diego County Fair sdfair.com

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6/21: CountryFest @ Lakeside Rodeo Grounds, kson.com East County’s semi-annual country festival returns with acts David Nail, Scotty McCreery, Danielle Bradbery and more.


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6/24: Pentatonix @ San Diego County Fair, sdfair.com These a cappella vocalists took home $200,000 and a Sony Music recording contract after winning Season Three of NBC’s The Sing-Off in 2011.

6/28: Johnny Mathis @ Pala Casino, palacasino.com This soul/jazz crooner earned himself a Guinness World Record after his Greatest Hits album spent 490 weeks (nearly 10 years) on Billboard’s Top Albums Chart.

6/25: Vans Warped Tour @ Sleep Train Amphitheatre, ticketmaster.com Yellowcard, Falling in Reverse, Anberlin, and more than 80 other indie/rock/punk bands take the stage at this all-day music and extreme sports festival, now celebrating a 20-year run.

6/29: Sarah McLachlan @ Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com Like it or not, this soft rocker’s song “Angel” will always evoke images of those sad, hungry puppies from her ASPCA commercials.

6/26: ThePianoGuys @ Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com Classical pop quartet who gained mainstream popularity via YouTube by playing instrumental covers of famous songs.

6/30: Devo @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Electronic rockers still riding the success of their 1980’s hit, “Whip It.”

6/27: Larry Hernandez @ San Diego County Fair, sdfair.com This Latin music singersongwriter, composer and musician is set to release his latest album, Otra Vez En La Lista Negra, at the end of May.

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6/27

Belly Up Tavern bellyup.com

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Malasian alt. pop singer Yunalis Mat Zara’ai (Yuna, for short) describes her music as “a cross between Mary Poppins and Coldplay.”

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6/5: Brillz @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Dubstep producer most known for remixes of Zedd’s “Clarity” and Kill The Noise’s “Roots.”

Electro house DJ who’s produced tracks for 50 Cent, LMFAO and T-Pain, among others.

SHOWS

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B y C a tl i n D o r s e t

6/1 interventionsd.com

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Hard Rock Hotel San Diego’s Intervention Sundays

[ S pi n

6/6: Bart B More @ FLUXX, fluxxsd.com Bart van der Meer (aka Bart B More) created his record label, Secure Recordings, in 2008 to focus on his unique EDM sound and to support other up-and-coming artists. 6/6: Paper Diamond @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com This Coloradoan dubstep artist returns to his Rocky Mountain hometown every April to play an annual 4/20 show. 6/7: Dirty South @ Dive Day Club, divedayclub.com Australian progressive house DJ Dirty South was nominated for Grammy Awards in 2008 and 2011 for his remixes with Kaskade and Axwell. 6/7: Crookers @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Electro house remixer most recognized for his work on Kid Cudi’s 2009 hit, “Day ‘N’ Nite.” 6/8: Ferry Corsten @ Hard Rock Hotel San Diego’s Intervention Sundays, interventionsd.com Dutch trance beat-maker touring worldwide through the end of September.

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G e r a r d H enninge r

6/8: Madeon @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Lady Gaga and Coldplay let this nu-disco DJ produce tracks for their most recent respective albums. (continued on page 118)


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6/21: TJR @ Dive Day Club, divedayclub.com Pitbull’s 2012 single “Don’t Stop The Party” featured this bounce music producer.

(continued from page 116) 112)

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6/13: Kastle @ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com Electronic house instrumentalist on the road to promote his self-titled debut album released in April.

On!

6/15: Blackbird Blackbird @ Soda Bar, sodabarmusic.com Electronic DJ Mikey Maramag’s (aka Blackbird Blackbird’s) second full-length album, Tangerine Sky, drops June 3.

1560 N. MAGNOLIA AVE., EL CAJON 619.448.3791 LOVEBOUTIQUEONLINE.COM 3610 BARNETT AVE., SAN DIEGO 619.224.0187 BARNETTAVEADULTSUPERSTORE.COM

FIND US ON:

All New Swimwear, Shoes & Accessories!

6/15: Markus Schulz @ Hard Rock Hotel San Diego’s Intervention Sundays, interventionsd.com This trance powerhouse debuted on DJ Mag’s Top 100 DJs list in 2006 at No. 19 and has ranked in the top 25 every year since.

6/26: A-Trak @ FLUXX, fluxxsd.com In April, this electro house turntablist released Quack, the debut album from the Duck Sauce superduo he created with Armand Van Helden. 6/27: Manik @ Bang Bang, bangbangsd.com Funk house DJ touring internationally all summer. 6/29: EC Twins & Stafford Brothers Hard Rock Hotel San Diego’s Intervention Sundays, interventionsd.com EDM brother duos EC Twins and Stafford Brothers rock the Intervention stage with back-toback sets.

BIG(GER) NEWS

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Remixes from this EDMer caught the ears of, and received support from, renowned artists Tiësto, Avicii, David Guetta and many others.

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groove [ ba r t e n d e r ]

Coin-Op Game Room bartender and bar manager Ryan Andrews. BELOW: Illustrated playing cards from The Drinking Deck.

the new deal

Why success is in the cards for a local bartender B y Fr a n k S a b a t i n i Jr . / p o rtr a i t b y kr i s t i n a y a m a m o t o

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works at Jayne’s Gastropub in University Heights). They tapped Bay Area bartender and artist Cora Tang (who previously worked at Neighborhood in East Village) to design the cards. So far, the trio seems to have dealt themselves a winning hand, as BevMo! will soon carry The Drinking Deck in all 150 of its locations nationwide. “We’ll be printing another 4,000 decks to keep up with the demand,” says Andrews. Aces in The Drinking Deck “focus on the cultural and physical effects of alcohol,” Andrews says. The Ace of Hearts, for example, comes with this heartfelt message: Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals throughout the body that control thought process, behavior and emotion. Alcohol increases levels of dopamine & serotonin, which are related to relaxation, peace of mind, and feelings of euphoria. Pick a card, any card… and be sure to tip the bartender. Coin-Op Game Room 3926 30th St., North Park 619.255.8523, coinopsd.com thedrinkingdeck.com

Mi k e N e w t on

U

nlike some of his esteemed colleagues and customers, bartender Ryan Andrews is playing with a full deck. Andrews is the bar manager at Coin-Op Game Room in North Park. With the help of friend and fellow bartender Alex Maynard, he developed The Drinking Deck, a set of 52 illustrated playing cards that depict the usual suspects — jacks, queens, kings — alongside cocktail recipes and booze-culture trivia revived from a bygone era. Leading the nostalgic trip down (hazy) memory lane is a fictional character named Thomas Tippins. “I kind of envision him as the Forest Gump of cocktail history, being present in all these events and being the catalyst for the growth of cocktail culture in pre-Prohibition America,” says Maynard on the Kickstarter campaign video that helped raise more than $11,000 to create the deck. Andrews and Maynard first discussed the project while cleaning the bar at their former workplace, Little Italy’s Craft & Commerce. (Maynard now



love [blind

da t e ]

Whatever Floats Your Boat A turbulent pool party and a saltwater voyage of Titanic proportions B y D a v i d P e rl o f f / Ph o t o s b y B r e v i n B l a c h

T

he sky is blue, the pool party’s packed, and headlining act NERVO is about to tear up the stage. Hailed as the world’s top female DJs, the Australian musicians/sisters have 2.7 million Facebook fans, many of whom are presently dancing with their shirts (and more) off, here at Intervention Sundays at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego. Blind daters Megan and Travis are about to arrive in the Epic Limo that picked them up about an hour ago. Before they join the Sunday Funday action at Float (Hard Rock’s pool-level bar/club), let’s review the pre-date interviews.

PacificSD: Where are you from and where do you live now? Megan: Born and raised in San Diego. Currently live in La Jolla. Travis: I grew up in a small town called WaKeeney, Kansas. About 1,000 people in it. I was in Kansas until I was 25, then I moved to New York when I was recruited to the USA bobsled team. After that, I moved to San Diego in 2010 and currently reside in lovely Cardiff by the Sea. What do you do for a living? Megan: I work as the Insider at the W San Diego Hotel downtown. I also just started a small business-slash-runningclub, Rundiego. Travis: I am currently on a quest to be a wizard. Until then, I make a living in two different industries. I’m a partner in an oil and gas business named ECPS

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and I run my personal training business by the name of White Buffalo Fitness. What do you do for fun? Megan: I love going out and trying all the new spots. I’m really into local concerts, small venues; running; cooking Paleo; traveling and visiting the pandas at the zoo. Travis: Surfing, playing the violin, working out, giving Kraft cheese singles as my business card to women at bars, partying occasionally, playing sand volleyball and miming on the weekends. What are you best at? Megan: Falling asleep during any movie. Travis: Being comfortable in uncomfortable situations and making decisions. (continued on page 124)


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What do you suck at? Megan: Packing lightly. And math. Travis: Arithmetic. Is it still called that? What are you looking for in a date, physically and/or otherwise? Megan: I like guys that are tall, dark hair and nice hands. I admire a sense of humor, honesty and goals. A San Diego native with a dog would be nice. Travis: Physically, someone who takes care of herself, works out, preferably does some weightlifting… I seem to connect better with those who do. And a naturally beautiful woman, not a painted clown. Long hair is attractive, too. Otherwise, a woman who takes care of herself mentally, spiritual, driven, and she needs to have backbone — my sense of humor is typically not overly sensitive. It’s funny, though. Describe your special brand of sex appeal in five words or less. Megan: Milkshake brings boys 124

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to yard. Travis: I don’t need five. Confidence. Rate yourself on a scale from one to 10 for looks. Megan: Based on who people say I resemble, I’m somewhere in between Cameron Diaz and the baby dinosaur, Baby Sinclair, from the old cartoon Dinosaurs. Travis: Ten. If I’m the only one on the scale, I win, right? What traits could your date exhibit that would be dealbreakers? Megan: If he is disrespectful or comes on too strong, offers to show me his latest bathroom selfie or picture of his car, is here just living the California dream in O.B. or hates dogs. Travis: Smoking, stupidity, nose picking, poor health habits. Fill in the blanks: I want my blind date to be “blank” and “blank.” Megan: Neat and have chemistry. Travis: Confident and beautiful inside and out.

Will the night end with a kiss, something more or less? Megan: Damned if you do, damned if you don’t? Travis: How much free booze do we get? What’s the most important thing in the world? Megan: Family and goat cheese. Travis: Faith. As Megan and Travis set foot on the Intervention Sundays pool deck, NERVO assumes the position at the audio helm. And then the place explodes — high-pressure smoke/ steam jets, a blizzard of confetti and thousands (give or take) of pool-party people bouncing to the beat. THANK YOU! EPIC LIMO 858.270.LIMO (5466) epiclimo.com INTERVENTION SUNDAYS Hard Rock Hotel San Diego 207 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 866.751.ROCK (7625), interventionsd.com (continued on page 126)


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love for sail Setting a course for water-bound romance

T

he daters carouse around the venue with legions of adoring EDM fans for about an hour, then jump back into the limo and head to Coronado, where a sailboat awaits at Seaforth Boat Rental. After Captain Russell gives a brief but effective safetytraining course (“the lifejackets are in here; the fire extinguishers are there”), it’s time to set sail. Alas, the wind ain’t havin’ today. Despite the sailboat’s running on gasoline, however, the voyage seems to be no less romantic, as evidenced by the fact that Megan and Travis are now perched at the

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front of the boat, channeling their inner Leo and Kate and having a Titanic moment. After motoring north to the airport, the boat turns around and heads back to Coronado. During the return leg of the trip, the couple sits along the side of the boat, smiling as they talk and embrace. Before reaching land, they’re split for mid-date debriefings. PacificSD: How’s it going so far? Megan: It’s going really well, much better than I’d expected. He’s a total gentleman. He’s really funny, he’s going with everything that we’re doing, making me feel very comfortable, giving me

compliments. It’s really nice. Travis: It’s going really well. I’m pleasantly surprised at her personality. She’s nice, she’s funny, we can hold a good conversation. We have more in common than I thought we would. What were your first impressions? Megan: Total country boy. Just a gentleman, and he’s very cute. Great first impression. Travis: Very pretty. When I first saw her, because she was very good-looking, I wondered if she was superficial, but she’s not. Looks like she takes care of herself, which is good, and

important to me. Is this the type of person you’d normally date? Megan: Yeah, I think so. He’s not from San Diego, which is good. He’s from Kansas, which is nice. I have a lot of friends from Kansas, so it was really cool to find out that’s where he’s from. But, yeah, physically — totally. He has a great personality. Travis: She is. She’s outgoing, she’s funny, she has a good personality. How was Intervention? Megan: We walked into a huge party and just watched the DJs and


danced, and kinda played around with the people dancing around us. It was great, so much fun. Really glad we went. It was his first time being there. I had been there before, and we had a great time. Travis: It was fun, it was wild, it was outgoing. We had a good time. We got to see a whole bunch of just partyin’ people and stuff like that. Very entertaining. What would your parents say if you brought your date home? Megan: They would love him. He went to Pittsburgh State, where my stepdad went, so they will die. They’ll like it a lot. Travis: They’d be happy.

Does your date want to kiss you? Megan: I think so. Travis: Hope so.

How about for personality? Megan: Ten. Travis: Fourteen.

have the music playing, a seal was swimming next to us at one point — which doesn’t sound that exciting, but it was — and Travis and I have gotten to spend some time getting to know each other. Travis: The boat’s been great, the weather is perfect and the water is calm. We got to see the skyline of downtown, the Coronado Bridge, the Midway and a seal swimming around.

Describe your experience on the boat so far. Megan: It’s a gorgeous day, and I had never seen the harbor from the backside of Coronado before. It’s been perfect. We’ve

Do you want to kiss your date now? Megan: I do, but I want to wait. He’s kissed me a couple times on my forehead, which was nice. Travis: Hell yeah.

THANK YOU! Seaforth Boat & Yacht Rentals 1715 Strand Way, Coronado 888.834.2628, seaforthboatrental.com

She’s cute, she’s got a good job and she’s got a good head on her shoulders. Rate your date on a scale from one to 10 for looks. Megan: Ten. Travis: Thirteen.

When the boat docks, the couple disembarks and changes for dinner at Union Kitchen & Tap in the Gaslamp. As they arrive at the new restaurant/ bar on Fifth Avenue (sister location to the original one in Encinitas), they sit on the same side of a semi-private table at the back of the main dining room.

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Land Lovers Make that “lubbers”

F

rom across the room at Union Kitchen & Tap, Megan and Travis look like a couple in love — sitting close, talking softly, appearing perfectly comfortable together. They finish their meals before the magazine crew does (we ordered dessert), and then stroll out the front door, free to enjoy the rest of their evening away from the camera The next morning, we call to see what we missed. PacificSD: How was dinner at Union? What did you have to eat and drink? Megan: Union Kitchen & Tap was awesome. It is a really big space and nice atmosphere. Our server was excellent, which is huge for me when choosing where to go. I really liked the menu, too. We started with calamari and flatbread that had egg on it, which was new and interesting. I had the Shrimp and Grits; it was spicy and delicious. To drink, I had the world’s best

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beer, Ballast Point Sculpin. I will definitely be going back. Travis: Union was very nice. It was bigger than I expected. Good décor and great vibe. We had a flatbread appetizer with an egg on it that turned out great; and also the calamari, which was good, too. For the entrée I had salmon, which was excellent. Where did you go when you left the restaurant? Megan: We had finished eating, so we decided to head out into the Gaslamp. We went over to Side Bar. Travis: We had the limo, so we decided to have it take us around to a couple more places. What did you do for the rest of the evening? Megan: After downtown, we went to The Shack in La Jolla. It was fun. We had a beer there, talked some more, and then I went home, and Travis took an Uber back to his house. Travis: We stopped by Side Bar, then headed back north and

stopped at The Shack in La Jolla. We dropped her off, then a strange man named Carlos took me home. Was there a kiss? Megan: When we were on the drive from Coronado to downtown after the boat, we had our first kiss. It was fireworks and butterflies and the whole thing. It felt completely natural and perfect timing. Travis: The kiss came way earlier than the end of the night. We were heading back over the Coronado Bridge, and it felt right, so I went for a kiss. And, honestly, it was the best first kiss I’ve ever had. What was the best part of the date? Megan: I think the best part was Travis asked me really important questions. He seemed like he knew what he wanted and was interested in how we would fit. He knew how to have a good conversation, which made him even more attractive. Travis: I think it was the boat ride. It was very relaxing, great

weather. I got to hold a beautiful woman. What else can you ask for? Will there be a second date? Megan: For sure. Travis: I sure hope so. AFTERMATCH: By the time they arrived at Intervention yesterday afternoon, it was clear the daters were hitting it off. And during the mid-date break, when asked what her parents would think of Travis, Megan said, “they’ll like it a lot” (note that she said “will,” not “would”), as if dinner with the folks were already on the books. For Megan, that first kiss with Travis was like, “fireworks and butterflies and the whole thing.” For Travis, “it was the best first kiss I’ve ever had.” From the pool party to the boat ride to dinner, it really was a picture-perfect date — and that’s not going overboard. THANK YOU! Union Kitchen & Tap 333 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.795.9463, gaslampunion.com



Th i n k

WELL, WATER YOU KNOW?

A fountain of fun and frightening facts about the world’s water supply B y MI c h a e l B e n n i n g e r

Of the 326 million trillion gallons of water on this planet, less than 1 percent is potable. Saltwater accounts for 97 percent; the other two percent is stuck in glaciers and at the Poles... for now, anyway. That leaves just a smidge of the good stuff for humans, animals and plants. It’s not a drop in a bucket, it’s a drop in a planet. Big gulp? Probably not for long. Drink up.

GLOBAL GUSHING ● WHAT A LOAD OF CROPS — Agriculture accounts for about 92 percent of the 2,400 trillion (that’s 2,400,000,000,000) gallons of water humans use each year. ●

UP A CREEK — While global population has doubled in the past 40 years, freshwater consumption has quadrupled. At this rate, 40 percent of countries may face extreme freshwater scarcity by 2020.

UNQUENCHABLE STATES OF AMERICA ● AQUAHOLICS — Although the U.S. constitutes only five percent of the planet’s population, ’Mericans consume more freshwater than any country except China and India, which each have triple the U.S. population. ●

TOXIC TONIC — Before reaching the tap, San Diegans’ water is diverted to one of three plants to be treated for viruses, bacteria, salts, metals, pesticides, herbicides, organic chemicals and radioactive contaminants.

ORAL OBLIGATION — In 2011, to comply with state regulations, the City of San Diego began fluoridating local water with fluorosilicic acid to reduce the public’s tooth decay.

SPLASHIN’ FASHION ● TIDE-DYED — Producing a single cotton shirt uses 713 gallons of water. Making a pair of jeans takes 2,600 gallons. Cotton crops consume most of that water. ●

POWER, PLANTS — Of all the water used in the U.S., the bulk goes toward electric power (41.5 percent) and irrigation (37 percent). Domestic uses — including cooking, bathing and gardening — account for 8.5 percent.

RESERVOIR HOGS — The typical American’s annual water usage exceeds 600,000 gallons. That’s double the global average and roughly the capacity of an Olympic-sized swimming pool.

SAN DIAGUA ● STREAM ON —San Diego imports 168 million gallons of water daily, mostly from the Colorado River and California Delta. If bottled in gallon jugs laid end to end, that amount would more than encircle Earth. ●

DAILY DOUSE — The typical San Diegan uses 88 gallons of water each day. That’s less than the national average of 100 gallons, and 12 times the amount used by residents of the African country Senegal.

WET WEAR — Odds are, the outfit you’re wearing took more than 4,000 gallons of water to produce. Wearing leather? Fuhgeddaboudit. Raising livestock requires using even higher amounts of water.

FLOODED FOOD ● STEER CLEAR — Americans eat 4.5 times as much beef as the global average. This craving for carne accounts for 30 percent of the nation’s water consumption. ●

HOLY COW — Producing a single pound of boneless beef requires 19,000 gallons of water. Most of that is used to grow the grain and corn the cows eat.

H2OMG ● POUR PLANNING — It takes seven liters of water to produce a one-liter bottle of water. Each glass of water served at a restaurant requires at least two more glassfuls to wash it.

i ll u s tr a t i o n s b y e r i c s w e s e y SOURCES: scientificamerican.com | treehugger.com | facethefactsusa.org | waterfootprint.org | sdcwa.org | epa.gov | nationalgeographic.com

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