May 2015

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Win tickets to the biggest concerts in San Diego

PacificSD is hooking you up with tickets to see these huge bands at Sleep Train Amphitheatre.

5/16: Lana Del Rey: Endless Summer Tour 5/23: Train: Picasso at the Wheel Summer Tour 6/6: Brad Paisley: Crushin’ It World Tour 6/20: Marco Antonio Solis y Camila 6/27: Nickelback: No Fixed Address Tour 7/10: Lady Antebellum: Wheels Up 2015 Tour 7/17: J. Cole: Forest Hills Drive Tour 8/2: Darius Rucker: Southern Style Tour 2015 8/8: Fall Out Boy and Wiz Khalifa: Boys of Zummer Tour 8/13: Nicki Minaj: The Pinkprint Tour 8/16: Dierks Bentley: Sounds of Summer Tour 9/22: Def Leppard 9/24: Foo Fighters: World Tour 9/30: Van Halen 10/3: Florida Georgia Line: Anything Goes Tour 10/16: Luke Bryan: Kick the Dust Up Tour 2015

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tickets to the Miller Lite party deck at a Live Nation® show San Diego

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TOUR TODAY FOR A CHANCE TO LIVE RENT–FREE IN A 2 BED / 2 BATH PENTHOUSE FOR A YEAR! * Please ask sales associate for details

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EDITOR’S NOTE {MAY 2015}

I’m in Treble Now that I have a three-year-old son whose education I want to be able to pay for some day, assuming college is still a thing in 2030, I’ve been trying to save some loot. Ergo, I’m still driving the same car I bought in 2005… and still rockin’ the FM while rolling around town.

I stream Pandora, listen to iTunes and play with Spotify — except in my car, where it’s all about the radio. The car also has a CD player, but my discs are collecting dust in the basement, and I’ve heard enough Lenny Kravitz to last a lifetime, anyway.

So, while Lex and I are ridin’ dirty (dirty diapers, that is), he likes to sing along with the radio from his baby seat. I moved the fader to the front so as not to blow out his new set of ears, which is great for him, but means the sound is trebly… and I can’t ever seem to shake Meghan Trainor (coming to Sleep Train in May; see page 84).

“All about that bass. No trouble!”

That’s how Lex sings it: “No trouble!” Maybe not for him, but I’m the one soaking in it in the front seat.

Sure, I flip around my presets in hopes of finding a classic, something with a little more staying power, like a Rolling Stones tune (so cool that they’re playing Petco Park in May; see page 83), but Lex is all about that bass.

And Bruno Mars.

“Up-down fun, go give it to me!”

It’s cute when he gets the words wrong, but that song makes me want to spackle my ears shut. I liked it the first few thousand times, but, well, you know…

Ed Sheeran makes him smile. NPR makes him cry. He claps when Taylor Swift comes on. Where does he learn to like to this stuff? Must be in Mom’s car.

Sometimes, I turn off the music and tell Lex the radio’s broken.

“Come on, Daddy. I like it!”

So I turn it back on, turn it up and dream of getting a new car before this kid goes to college.

Please enjoy this music issue of PacificSD. America’s Finest music scene is heating up, and incredible sounds are everywhere — except in my car.

Sincerely, David Perloff, Editor-in-Chief

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PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM • MAY 2015

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Be on-board for the long-awaited launch of BROADSTONE CORSAIR, a progressive new community (with dynamic views of the jets at Montgomery Field) where life on the town and home life become one… and soar.

Everything is complimentary during this fabulous evening, and tickets are priceless — actually, they’re free. BROADSTONE CORSAIR and PacificSD proudly present this first-class way of life. RSVPs are limited and required. Sign up at pacificticketing.com.

Poolside Concert Gig Town presents live concert performances by Pacific Records recording artists Sandollar and Super Groupie on BROADSTONE CORSAIR’S pool deck. Vinyl beats by DJ Misha will round out the evening’s musical offerings.

Craft Beer Showcase Drink local brews by four of San Diego’s celebrated craft beer artisans — all from our hometown, and all on the house.

Cocktail Lounge Sample The Balboa and other refreshing whiskey cocktails by San Diego’s own Henebery Whiskey.

Ultimate Dining Experience All passengers will be treated to complimentary offerings from Cohn Restaurant Group’s wildly popular food trucks, Chop Soo-ey and Ms. Patty Melt. One guest will win $1,000 in gift certificates to top restaurants and bars around the city.

Helicopter Ride One guest will win a helicopter ride for four from Montgomery Field to Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens in Escondido.

RSVP (required) at PacificTicketing.com

Must be 21+ to attend event.

For property information, visit BroadstoneCorsair.com.

Check out Super Groupie, Sandollar and hundreds of other local bands on the GigTown app

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF David Perloff

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kenny Boyer MANAGING EDITOR Catlin Dorset manager, digital and social media Jessica Pelligra CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Michael Benninger CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Stephanie Eng, Brandon Hernández, Megan Looney, Tony Lovitt, Brandon Matzek, David Nelson COVER Illustration R. Black CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Paul Body, Brandon Matzek, John Mireles, Sara Norris

PUBLISHERS David Perloff Simone Perloff MARKETING DIRECTOR Alyson C. Baker (alyson@pacificsandiego.com) CLIENT SERVICES MANAGER Ryan Jones (ryan@pacificsandiego.com) ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Michael Christopher (mike@pacificsandiego.com) Brennan MacLean (brennan@pacificsandiego.com) INtern Nadine Blanco

Reach America’s Finest readers via print, web, social media, email, street team and events. Read, click, connect... BOOM! 619.296.6300 | pacificsandiego.com | @PACIFICSD Facebook “f ” Logo

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PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM • MAY 2015

CMYK / .eps

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CMYK / .eps

experience

rmd

FLUXX CIRO’S SIDEBAR POP’S F6IX CABARAE RUSTICROOT DONCHIDO KNOTTYBARREL RMDGROUPSD.COM/EXP

CONTENTS ma y 2 0 1 5

FEATURES

64 74

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margarita month Celebrating San Diego’s original craft cocktail face the music Sample the sounds, sights and sensations of spring/summer in San Diego

PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM • may 2015

ON THE COVER: Illustration by R. Black.

THIS PAGE: A multitude of megastar musical acts, including The Killers (pictured below), are performing in San Diego this summer. (See “Face the Music,” page 74.)

Guest List Spend more time in the club, less time in line.

Exclusive Access Get the lowest-priced tickets before anyone else.

Loyalty Earn points for every dollar you spend and use them like cash at our venues.

Get Social Earn points when you keep up with us on social media.

Reservations Book the night of your life in minutes.

Employment Be the first in line for your dream job.

Our Venues Get to know all the places where it pays to party.

LOYALTY PAYS Introducing the Experience RMD Loyalty App. The only app that pays you to eat, drink and party at San Diego’s hottest venues.

Search “RMD Group” in your App Store.

For Members Only Special Offers and Double Point Opportunities.

MAY 2015

DEPARTMENTS CURRENTS 34 Five.Fifteen

Event calendar

102 Say Cheese

How to put the “I do”

in “Fundido”

40 Laughing Stock

May stand-up roundup

104 Take it From

the Tap

Finest City beer — scene

and heard

PULSE 44 Art Beat

May museum and

gallery openings 50 Relatively Speaking

Sisters discuss their new

Little Italy art gallery 52 Curtain Calls

Performing arts preview 54 The Reel World

May motion

picture preview 58 Raising the Barre

One female bodybuilder’s

attempt at ballerina bootcamp 60

The Wheel Deal Thousands of spokes people expected to ditch the whip for National Bike to Work Day

m i k & t t a .5 1 m at ay 1 ) M s .

08 orm perf y, page 1 m i K tor att &k. (See s M o r Pa p du e po y North i d n r —I ervato Obs

GROOVE 108 Sounds Like

A Plan

May concerts calendar 116 Take a Spin

Upcoming EDM

and DJ shows 118 A Shot

at Success

A local bartender

says cheers! to her

musical career LOVE 120 Treble in Paradise

A Finest City

first encounter,

set to music

TASTE 90 All Heart

Not to mention

sweetbreads and other

comfort foods from a

passionate chef 96

Now You Sea It A high-end steakhouse gives way to the motion of the ocean MATT MI LLE R

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[Promotion]

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PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM • may 2015

x a T A America Attacks

By Craig Sewing

April has come and gone. Were you a fool? If you believe the tax rhetoric that comes out of Washington, the answer may be “yes.”

Every year, around April 15th, the American people​and American businesses have a tug of war with Uncle Sam, hoping to reduce what they pay in taxes. Don’t hate the players; that’s just the game.

But while complaining about the One Percenters being greedy during tax season can make for punchy political headlines and cute sound bites, the facts surrounding these claims are, factually speaking, about as about dense as Joe Biden’s hairline.

Remember, greed is a human flaw, not one felt by only certain wealth classes. There are plenty of g​ reedy broke people, too.

Example: There a record number of people on disability?

Are there really that many people slipping and falling, or has it simply become easier to collect on false claims? Plus, it’s never been easier to find an ambulance-chasing attorney to file a lawsuit, no matter how much you earn each year.

Greed is a human flaw, not one based on income or wealth.

As for taxes,​I’m confident not a single tax payer wants to pay a dime more in taxes than is required by law. ​If you are different, go for it — you are legally allowed and welcomed to pay as much as you’d like.

It makes political sense to pigeonhole One Percenters as oil lovin’ Wall Street Greedsters and purport to be on the side that “fights for the man.” Why? Because it works on the sheeple.

Look how Romney’s opponents used the strategy to take Mitt out of the running. Whether you like the guy or not (I’m not a huge fan), how success and profit became bad words in our society’s collective mind is frightening.

If facts matter, the latest available show that the top 10 percent of earners paid 68 percent of the taxes. Soak that in for a moment, and then try to tell these businesspeople they’re not paying their “fair share.”

Many of the tax-paying top 10 percent are business owners

(aka job creators) who create goods and services we all enjoy.

They also employ others who earn incomes and pay their taxes.

Everyone wins in this equation. ​I’m not saying all business owners are saints, as illustrated by the golden parachutes handed out to the corrupt CEOs during the 2008 market crash. That being said, let’s not demonize success or misapply terms like “fair share” because of a few bad apples.

On the flip side, the bottom 50 percent of earners paid zero dollars. Not a bad gig.

I’m not saying we should protect the rich, I’m suggesting we simply be honest in our dialogue and not buy into the nonsense we hear from politicians. After all, they’re the ones whose massive spending has led to an $18 trillion debt. Who’s supposed to pay for that? Oh yeah… we are.

As a solution, let’s consider the fact that our country has the highest corporate tax rate on the planet. Imagine a world where this was reduced, and, instead, incentives were attached to creating jobs here.

This may sound crazy, but I believe paying taxes should be regarded as being patriotic and as something we should enjoy.

If the tax code were simpler, and we were applauded for putting money into the system, who knows — even the coldest CEO might be made to feel warm and fuzzy.

The answer, perhaps, is a flatter, more understandable tax code. Such simplicity might put some CPAs out of business, but a better system would eliminate the hustle and create more transparency. Unfortunately, good policy isn’t always good politics, and the government continues to spend away, while asking for more from you and me.

As your consumer advocate every day on 1170-AM, one thing I advise on is having a tax strategy. If you need one, or a sound financial plan, visit craigsewing.com.

I hope you found some big deductions this tax season. Many happy returns!

Craig Sewing is a television and radio personality and consumer advocate who confronts polarizing issues head-on. Forever focused on cutting through the media clutter, he states his views bluntly, making friends and enemies along the way. Tune-in to Sewing’s intriguing and sometimes controversial broadcasts on The American Dream every Saturday at 10 a.m. on Cox or Time Warner Channel 4, and on The Craig Sewing Show weekdays at 6 p.m. on KCBQ 1170AM to hear his engaging and enlightening conversations with the region’s political, business and finance luminaries. Follow Craig at Facebook.com/CraigSewing or on Twitter @craigsewing.

may 2015 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM

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F e a t u r e Ma r k e t :

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La Jolla 92037

Market Update Located in the Village of La Jolla with Stunning panoramic oceanfront and spectacular whitewater ocean views from nearly every room from the North Coastline to the Southern Coastline!

939 Coast boasts incredible amenities: theater, pool, fitness center, billiard room, 24-hour security and valet.

(March 2015 data) Number of homes for sale: 279 Number of homes sold: 76 Highest price: $11,400,000 Lowest price: $310,000 Median home price $1,450,150 Market is in full swing picking up at the beginning of the year! Buyers are confident on the market place and interest rates remain strong. Multiple offers are being seen and sellers are putting more inventory on as well. Off to a great and productive, positive year!

Market Expert Melissa Tucci is the Official Real Estate Agent of the San Diego Padres.

Awarded #5 global ranking for Century 21 worldwide, Tucci is a top producing professional and an 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 also recently named Spotlight Agent in Zillow Nationwide and the Front Cover Winner of Top Agent Magazine’s November issue.

Listen to Melissa Tucci on The Craig Sewing Show Tuesday, May 5, at 6 p.m. on KCBQ 1170 AM and watch her on The American Dream on Saturday, May 9, at 10 a.m. on Cox or Time Warner Channel 4.

Melissa Goldstein Tucci Century 21 All Service 1820 Monroe Ave., San Diego, CA 92116, 619.787.6852, MelissaTucci.com, Sold@MelissaTucci.com

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F e a t u r e Ma r k e t :

University City 92122

Featuring a spacious floor plan, this property is located on a prime, quiet canyon lot, giving you the privacy of no neighbors behind you. Everything you could need is within walking distance!

Market Update

Market Experts

Enjoy the absolute breathtaking views of gorgeous mountain hills in this distinguished home nestled in the Arrowood Golf Course.

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.

(March 2015 data) Number of homes for sale: 236 Number of homes sold: 142 Highest price $1,150,000 Lowest price $124,000 Median home price $620,000

BRE # 01870483

Listen to Glen and Shannon on The Craig Sewing Show Thursday, May 12, at 6 p.m. on KCBQ 1170 AM and watch them on The American Dream on Saturday, May 9, at 10 a.m. on Cox or Time Warner Channel 4.

Glen Henderson & Shannon Keatley Alliance Group Real Estate Services 3131 Camino Del Rio North, Ste. 1420, San Diego, CA 92108, 619.500.3222, AllianceGroupRE.com, info@alliancegroupre.com

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Downtown 92101

Perched atop the tallest premier high-rise residential tower in Downtown San Diego, this 35th floor two bedroom luxury condo boasts panoramic views of San Diego Bay, Coronado Bridge, dazzling city lights, local mountains & beyond. Always a 2nd home, this immaculate property features Brazilian cherry hardwood floors, Bosch & Thermador stainless appliances, Kohler fixtures, fireplace & more. Offered at $749,900.

Market Update

Market Expert

New condo developments are making their way back to Downtown and Banker’s Hill. For the latest condo info and to join our VIP List, visit us online at welcometosandiego.com/newcondos.

Chad Dannecker is broker and owner of Welcome to San Diego Real Estate.

He runs a team that has proven time and time again that they are the go-to professionals for downtown real estate. If you do any research on downtown, you’ll quickly find welcometosandiego. com, Chad and his team’s website, and their five-star client reviews on Yelp, Google and Zillow.

(March 2015 data) Number of homes for sale: 212 Number of homes sold: 80 Highest price $1,255,000 Lowest price $230,000 Median home price $503,000

Listen to Chad Dannecker on The Craig Sewing Show Wednesday, May 6, at 6 p.m. on KCBQ 1170 AM and watch him on The American Dream on Monday, May 30, at 10 a.m. on Cox or Time Warner Channel 4.

Chad Dannecker Welcome to San Diego Real Estate - Dannecker & Associates 875 G. St., Ste. 108, San Diego, CA 92101, 619.356.3099, welcometosandiego.com, chad@welcometosandiego.com

BRE#01459513

CONSUMER ADVOCATE Street Smart Advice in the San Diego Marketplace

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YOU=Bankruptcy, Foreclosure, Short Sale?

$410,000 5 beds / 3 baths / 2,890 sqft There is nothing better than a happy ending! Especially when it comes to working with people that have had a tough past with lots of credit challenges and the ending is getting them into a new home.

I received a call from Mitch Asa at Keller Williams in La Jolla, an incredible buyer’s agent in the Real Estate world. I needed to talk to his buyers, (Ana and John), because they had gone through a terrible experience on a home they were buying only to be told near the end that they couldn’t. Here’s the scoop. In the housing boom, John had built a couple of homes, market crashed, couldn’t sell them and ended up foreclosing on one of them. They had to file Bankruptcy to get out of the credit trouble they found themselves in. Not really great. Now, to this day, I still don’t know where the last lender went wrong, but with Mitch finding them the perfect house, using their

VA eligibility we were able to get them into a beautiful new home, (see the picture) $410,00 with zero down payment and a $7,000 seller credit towards closing costs!

They barely had to come in with any money at all, but that is the difference in who you work with.

Here’s the point, Ana and John had a terrible financial and credit past and with the right set up, they are now home owners again getting out of the high rent they were paying, taking advantage of the tax benefits of homeownership and paying into their own equity. This is the kind of happy ending we are looking for and one you should look for as well!

CALL JJ TODAY FOR A FREE MORTGAGE ANALYSIS AND RECEIVE A $500 CREDIT AT CLOSING! WWW.ASKJJNOW.COM Jonathan Jerotz, known as “JJ”, is part of the elite team of professionals serving the San Diego real estate community. JJ’s expertise is in mortgages, and he has ranked in the top 1 percent of all mortgage professionals in the country since 2011.

NMLS# 247008

Looking to Buy? Call Mitch today!

MITCH ASA REALTOR Keller Williams La Jolla Phone: 858.805.5525 mitchasa@kw.com

Listen to JJ’s new show, The Answer, Wednesday nights at 8 p.m. on KCBQ 1170 AM. CAL BRE# 01911756

JONATHAN (JJ) JEROTZ Synergy One Lending 990 Highland Drive, Ste. 302, Solana Beach, CA 92075, 760.522.2298, AskJJNow.com, jj@synergyonelending.com

F I V E . fif tee n event ca l endar

5/20-23

San Diego Surf Film Festival Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, La Jolla sandiegosurffilmfestival.com

Drop in to catch more than 20 rad waverider flicks, a sick surf art gallery and more, brah. Shaka! (cont. on page 36)

ch ris burkard

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C U R R E N T S {calendar} (cont. from page 34)

5/1-4

Harbor to Harbor 50 Mile Urban Adventure Trek Begins at Oceanside Harbor projectathena.org Help raise funds for the women of Project Athena during this two-day coastal walk from Oceanside Harbor to San Diego Bay.

5/2

Pug Party Del Mar Fairgrounds pugsandiego.com Pug life! This annual fur fest offers pug massages and facials, pawticures and a Vegas-themed costume contest to benefit Pug Rescue of San Diego County.

5/2-3

Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo Old Town oldtownsandiegoguide.com Tequila tastings, live music, a low rider car show y mucho mas make this 32nd annual Cinco de Mayo celebration the largest of its kind in SoCal.

5/2

Australia’s Thunder from Down Under Sycuan Casino, El Cajon sycuan.com Have a one-night stand with shirtless, sexy, gyrating muscle men from down unda.

5/2-3

5/2

Latin Food & Wine Festival Harrah’s Resort Southern California, Valley Center harrahssocal.com Celebrating all things Latin America, this foodie fête features celebrity chefs, sumptuous Latin cuisine and unlimited sips of fine vino from more than 20 California wineries.

5/3

Carlsbad Village Faire Carlsbad Village carlsbad.org Nearly 1,000 vendors, international food booths, live music and a beer-andwine garden draw more than 100,000 spectators and shoppers to Carlsbad from all over the globe.

Hoops at the Beach Bonita Cove Park, Mission Beach sandiegobowlgames.com Bounce over to the largest three-on-three basketball tourney in San Diego County, featuring half-court games, a three-point shootout and a slam dunk contest.

5/3

Del Mar Bridal Bazaar Del Mar Fairgrounds bridalbazaar.com Here comes the bride… to what’s promoted as the biggest wedding planning expo in S.D., spotlighting 200 experts in food, fashion, photography and all things nuptial.

Miracle Babies 5K Embarcadero Marina Park South, Downtown miraclebabies5k.com Dress as your favorite superhero before jogging, walking or flying through this 5K benefitting the families of sick and premature babies.

Taste of Cardiff Main Street, Cardiff-by-the-Sea tasteofcardiff.com Sample food, brews and wines during this selfguiding tasting tour of Cardiff restaurants, and then vote for your favorites to help decide which eatery will win the town’s Golden Fork Award.

Spring Sprint Triathlon & Duathlon South Shores Park, Mission Bay kozevents.com This beginner-friendly running event offers a triathlon (quarter-mile swim, 10-mile bike, three-mile run), a duathlon (one-mile run, 10-mile bike, three-mile run) and a mini-triathlon (200-yard swim, six-mile bike, 1.5-mile run).

5/7-10

Gator By The Bay Festival Spanish Landing Park, Midway District gatorbythebay.com Get a taste of the Bayou by feasting on 10,000 pounds of Louisiana crawfish and soaking in six stages of New Orleans-style entertainment at this 14th annual four-day event. (cont. on page 38)

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Joseph mcdo nald

5/3

5/7

5/3

5/9

C U R R E N T S {calendar} (cont. from page 36)

WIPEOUTRUN Del Mar Fairgrounds wipeoutrun.com Nearly 10,000 brave souls are expected to crash, smash and splash through 12 largerthan-life obstacles along a 5K course formerly known as R.O.C. (Ridiculous Obstacle Course) Race.

Blue wesley p hot ograp hy

5/8

Mama’s Day Hyatt Regency La Jolla mamaskitchen.org Taste an incredible, edible array of cuisine from nearly 60 local chefs while supporting Mama’s Kitchen, a local organization that provides free meals to adults and children affected by AIDS or cancer.

5/9

Bacon and Barrels Embarcadero Marina Park South, Downtown baconandbarrels.com Pig out what’s being dubbed the “Coachella of bacon,” a porky party offering unlimited tastings of bacony goodness, craft barreled beverages (beer, bourbon, wine), live music and more.

5/16-17

5/16

Bike to Work Day Throughout San Diego County icommutesd.com Trade four wheels for two (unless you need training wheels) and log your miles on iCommute’s TripTracker (icommutesd.com) to burn calories and support eco-friendly transportation in San Diego.

5/17

5/28-31

Ric h ard Valentine

PADRES HOME GAMES 5/1-3: vs. Colorado Rockies (promotions: Fiesta in the Park and First Responder Opening Day 5/1; Postgame Fireworks 5/2; Military Spouse Appreciation Day 5/3) 5/14-17: vs. Washington Nationals (promotions: College Night 5/14; Party in the Park 5/15; Armed Forces Day 5/16; PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM • may 2015

5/29-31

Celebrity Championship Morgan Run Resort and Club, Rancho Santa Fe celebritychampionship.com Marshall Faulk, Alfonso Ribeiro (current Dancing with the Stars champ) and other celebs take a swing at a $100,000 purse to raise money for the Junior Seau and Marshall Faulk Foundations.

Bay Bridge Run/Walk One Park Blvd. and Harbor Dr., Downtown navylifesw.com/bridgerun Complete a picturesque four-mile route from downtown to Coronado, crossing the San Diego-Coronado Bridge in this 19th annual event supporting the Navy’s Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) programs.

Participants receive a t-shirt and free transportation back to the mainland.

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Beach Soccer Championships Oceanside Harbor Beach beachsoccerusa.org Cheer alongside 35,000 soccer fans as more than 300 teams from around the world compete in this three-day tournament for cash and glory.

North Park Festival of the Arts University Ave. and 30th St., North Park northparkfestivalofarts.com Local arts and crafts, a craft beer block and several stages of live entertainment fill the streets of North Park for this 19th annual free affair.

5/15

Jeremy Ball

OB Kite Festival Dusty Rhodes Park, Ocean Beach oceanbeachsandiego.com Enjoy food truck grub and live music while building and flying kites, watching the Kite Ballet show and perusing the craft fair.

5/9

LGBT Film Festvial Observatory North Park filmoutsandiego.com Watch more than 25 LGBT-themed features, shorts and documentaries during this annual film festival attended by movie buffs, filmmakers and actors.

5/31

San Diego Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Begins at Quince St. and 6th Ave., Bankers Hill runrocknroll.competitor.com Run a marathon course encircling the city, rock out to live bands at every mile and roll over to the headlining concert by O.A.R. at the finish line.

U.S. Coast Guard Appreciation Day 5/17) 5/19-21: vs. Chicago Cubs (promotions: Taco Tuesday 5/19; College Night 5/21) 5/28-31: vs. Pittsburgh Pirates (promotions: College Night 5/28; Party in the Park and San Diego Fire-Rescue Department Salute 5/29; Military Salute 5/31)

Currents {COMEDY}

LAUGHING STOCK may stand-up roundup Compiled by Megan Looney

5/4: Mike Recine @ Mad House Comedy Club, madhousecomedyclub.com

“I was on the street the other day; I saw a family. The parents were white, and the kids were Asian and they were adopted, obviously.

But whenever you see that, doesn’t it feel like those parents are like showing off a little bit?

Like, when they selected the baby they were like, ‘White one? No one’s gonna know that we’re heroes!’”

—Mike Recine on Conan

5/7-9: Shawn Wayans @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

“Your mother’s so dumb she went to Dr. Dre for a Pap smear.

‘Something’s wrong, Dr. Dre! My coochie’s doing a beatbox.’”

5/1-2: Sarah Tiana

@ The Comedy Store lajolla.thecomedystore.com

“President Obama is going to visit Kenya. Republicans are calling it his birthright trip.”

—Sarah Tiana on Twitter

—Shawn Wayans as Brittany Wilson in White Chicks

5/8-9: Jeff Dye @ The Comedy Palace, thecomedypalace.com

—Jeff Dye at Comedy Underground Seattle (cont. on page 42)

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PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM • MAY 2015

F rankie L eal P hot ograph y

“I’ve been trying to work out, but that crap’s heavy. It’s not really for me. If I’m gonna do an illegal drug in the gym, uh, it’s not gonna be steroids, it’s gonna be Ecstasy. You’ll have the best workout ever just rubbing the weights on your body.”

5/14-16: Brooks Wheelan @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

Robyn Von Swan k

Currents {COMEDY} (cont. from page 40)

5/9: Roseanne Barr @ Balboa Theatre, sandiegotheatres.org

“I just wanna say to all of my peers, when Comedy Central calls you and tells you they want to honor you — and they will — just hang the f*** up.

I got a dais half-full of f***ing loosers. I’ve seen people in front of Home Depot less desperate for work.

—Roseanne Barr on Comedy Central’s Roast of Roseanne Barr 5/15-16: Bret Ernst @ The Comedy Store, lajolla.thecomedystore.com

“If you smoke weed, have fun with it but quit trying to convince everyone it’s good for you. And stop using your dumb pot logic to convince us, ’cause everyone says the same thing: ‘It’s natural; it comes from the earth.’ So does Uranium, dickhead, I’m not dousing myself in it.”

“This is the dumbest thing I ever did guys, I bought a sword on the Internet one time. I bought a f***ing sword off of the Internet. And then I got it in the mail and realized, hey, maybe we stop smoking weed, man. You’re making some pretty questionable choices in your life.”

—Brooks Wheelan at South Beach Comedy Festival 5/19: Howie Mandel @ Sycuan Casino, sycuan.com

“Sex is always great, sex doesn’t change. What changes is excuses from the ladies. I’m looking at my wife, my wife looks sexy and hot and everything, and I say to her, ‘Honey, you wanna?

You wanna uhhh?’ This was her excuse, this is what she says to me: ‘It’s 1:30 in the morning.’

You know what I said to her? ‘What f***ing time does your vagina close? Why don’t you take off your underpants so I can read the hours?’”

—Howie Mandel on Howie Do It

5/17: Colin Kane @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

“If it takes five minutes to scroll through pictures of your boyfriend or girlfriend to show your friend a good one, they’re ugly.”

—Bret Ernst at The Hollywood Improv

—Colin Kane on Facebook

>

5/21-24: Harland Williams @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

“The worst sound I ever heard in my life — my parents having sex.

I’m over visiting my parents the other day… I go off to my little room they got set up for me from when I was a little kid. I’m laying there, I’m just about to go to sleep and all of the sudden I start to hear it. The moaning, the groaning… finally, I couldn’t take it anymore. Finally, I rolled over and I said to them. I said, ‘Look, get the hell back to your own room.’”

—Harland Williams on Late Show With David Letterman 5/29-30: Michael Kosta @ The Comedy Store, lajolla.thecomedystore.com

“I went on a date recently with a woman in a wheelchair and I stood her up. Not surprisingly, that’s when she fell for me.

And you know what? Then it became a bit of a drag, but now we’re on a roll.”

5/28-30: Janeane Garofalo @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

“The barista, very nice person, said, ‘I don’t mean to offend you, but you look like Janeane Garofalo.’ None taken, none taken. And then, of course, on the heels of that was, ‘What ever happened to her?’”

—Janeane Garofalo on Janeane Garofalo: If You Will, Live in Seattle

—Michael Kosta on Comedy Central Presents

5/31: Greg Proops @ American Comedy Co., americancomedyco.com

“I would never advocate the use of dope because, you know, I’m not a professional athlete and I don’t have access to the good stuff.”

—Greg Proops on Comedy Central Presents

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PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM • may 2015

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43

PULSE

May exhibitions and openings

By Michael Benninger

ART BEAT

5/2-6/20 “Art Mûr” by Lori Cozen-Geller Madison Art Gallery 1020 Prospect St., Ste. 130, La Jolla 858.459.0836, madisongalleries.com

“Bounce” by Lori Cozen-Geller

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As a means of mourning, this SoCal native made her first attempt at artistic expression mere hours after her father’s death, giving birth to a body of work that’s been featured in galleries and publications across the country. (cont. on page 46)

“Naptime For Star” by Denise Bledsoe

Pulse {ARTS} (cont. from page 44)

“Warhol” by Larry Caveney

5/1-29: New Contemporaries VIII Valencia Gallery 2730 Historic Decatur Rd., Barracks 16, Point Loma 619.752.6118, valenciagallery.com See some of the city’s most esteemed emerging artists displaying works that might help them win the illustrious San Diego Art Prize.

“On the Inside” by Vanessa Christie

“Amp 11” by Matt Rich

5/9-22: 30Under30 Happenstance 800 West Ivy St., Little Italy artbykami.com Free to the public and their pups, this group show in the heart of Little Italy features works by mixed-media artists who’ve yet to complete their third decade of life.

5/9-6/6: “Woolgathering” by Denise Bledsoe Distinction Art Gallery 317 East Grand Ave., Escondido 760.707.2770, distinctionart.com A mixed-media San Diego artist and sculptor showcases her most recent works, featuring whimsical creatures, each of which has its own story to tell.

5/9-6/13: “Ampersand” by Matt Rich La Jolla Athenaeum 1008 Wall St., La Jolla 858.454.5872, ljathenaeum.org Inspired by the ampersand, the contorted punctuation symbol that represents “and,” this SoCal artist’s picturesque paintings and wooden sculptures are meant to link the literal and unspoken elements of the Athenaeum’s library. (cont. on page 48)

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[Promotion]

Spice of Life

Ancho Reyes, the next bartenders’ handshake B y D avid N elson

Bon vivant is a French term that describes people who live the good life, one whose refined palate comes from regular celebration over food and drinks.

Acclaimed tastemakers from within the national bartender scene, The Bon Vivants, Josh Harris and Scott Baird, live it up with poise and panache. In fact their lives are so good, so enviable, they have a website to prove it (feel jealous at bonvivants.com).

When teaching how to make cocktails that call for spice and heat (or whenever they need to add luster to an already sparkling day) the duo breaks out a bottle of Ancho Reyes. The uniquely

spicy spirit — made fiery with ancho chili — has become the new “bartenders handshake” mixologists toast during split-second breaks.

Known for creating innovative cocktail programs and imparting their operational expertise, The Bon Vivants were instrumental in Ancho Reyes’ development and release.

“I’m particularly drawn to spirits that have a strong connection to the place of their birth, in this instance, Mexico,” says Harris. “When you think of chili liqueur, the immediate connection is spice and heat, but Ancho Reyes offers more, like an ability to mix with other flavors bounded

only by the abilities of the guy making the cocktail. There’s nothing else like it.”

The brand’s founders, Moises Guindi and Daniel Scheneeweiss, approached Harris and Baird to help guide Ancho Reyes from concept to bottled spirit.

“We gave our opinions about how this brand could, should and would be received in the American cocktail market,” Harris says. “We’re still in this wonderful phase where we’re discovering new epiphanies.”

Enlightenment, and a spicy taste of the good life, are guaranteed with each bottle. ¡Salud!

Get fired up at anchoreyes.com

“Deep Sea Diver” by Nicole Eisenman

Pulse {ARTS} (cont. from page 46)

“Untitled (nineties)” by Sarah Cain

Robert wedeme yer

5/9-9/6: “Dear Nemesis” by Nicole Eisenman Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego 700 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.454.3541, mcasd.org With a sharp focus on the fairer sex, and including depictions of both “butch” and “femme” females, this exhibition chronicles two decades of an artist’s creative evolution from painting to printmaking and drawing to sculpture.

J eff mclane

5/9-7/19: “Blue in Your Body, Red When It Hits the Air” by Sarah Cain Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego 700 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.454.3541, mcasd.org Breaking down the barriers of the standard solo exhibition, this Los Angelesbased artist’s first museum project features her own works displayed alongside pieces she selected from other artists, including her picks from MCASD’s permanent collection.

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“Woman in Blue Reading a Letter” by Johannes Vermeer

“No Zen” by 5/23-6/6: FNGRS CRSSD Johnny Pop San Diego Cellars 2215 Kettner Blvd., Little Italy artbykami.com Centered upon the twisted hand gesture that represents both luck and lies, this group exhibition at a Little Italy wine bar highlights the work of 20 local artists.

5/14-9/11: “The Private World of Vermeer” Timken Museum of Art 1500 El Prado, Balboa Park 619.239.5548, timkenmuseum.org Nearly three-dozen paintings from Dutch baroque artist Johannes Vermeer, including his most famous “Woman in Blue Reading a Letter,” arrives at the Timken Museum on loan from Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum.

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49

Pulse {ARTS}

RElatively speaking

Sisters discuss their new Little Italy art gallery

By Tony Lovitt

I

nspired by their mother, Marcia Adelman, a lifelong aficionada and collector of fine art, sisters Nicole Adelman Brewer and Phylicia Adelman have opened Adelman Fine Art Gallery (#artyouenjoy) on Kettner Boulevard in Little Italy. “(My mother’s) love of art, of course, is spilling over into my world, and I’m learning,” says Nicole, reflecting on Marcia’s ongoing involvement in curating the gallery.

“I’m so thankful for all the opportunities that I’ve had to be working with such creative and motivated people. It’s been really an exciting time this last year, building the business together with her.”

The contemporary gallery showcases paintings, sculptures, jewelry and glasswork by a group of international, national and local artists, some emerging, others well recognized.

Women comprise the majority of the womenowned gallery’s artists, including Brooklynbased finger painter Iris Scott, whose works began Marcia’s art collection. “[Scott] paints exclusively with gloved hands,” says Nicole. “She doesn’t use paint brushes at all. She’s quite amazing.”

Some of the Adelmans’ featured artists will conduct live art demonstrations as part of the gallery’s May 7-9 grand opening festivities. In the future, Nicole says, the gallery will also host events with local musicians, including the band Good Intentions, featuring her husband, guitarist Rob Brewer.

An invitation-only gala on March 26 was the gallery’s kickoff event.

“And even though it wasn’t supposed to be a ‘selling event’ that night – it was just a night of celebration – we sold several pieces [totaling] in excess of $10,000,” Nicole says.

“I think we’re off to a good start.”

Adelman Fine Art 1980 Kettner Blvd., Ste. 40 619.354.5969, adelmanfineart.com

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PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM • MAY 2015

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51

Pulse {performing aRTS}

CURTAIN CALLS may performing arts PREVIEW

By Michael Benninger

Dale st okes

5/5-10: Cinderella Civic Theatre 1100 Third Ave., Downtown 619.570.1100, broadwaysd.com This comedic adaption of the quintessential fairy tale features astonishing scenery transformations, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s original songs and unexpected moments certain to elicit smiles.

5/8-10: Don Quixote Spreckels Theatre 121 Broadway, Downtown 858.272.8663, cityballet.org Based on the monumental 17th century novel, this dance performance tells the tale of a delusional member of Spanish nobility, who sets out on a quest to right the world’s wrongs, attacking windmills and resurrecting chivalry in the process.

5/9-6/4: Arms and the Man The Old Globe 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park 619.231.1941, theoldglobe.org A beautiful young woman is due to wed a celebrated soldier, but an enemy deserter unsettles the nuptial plans in this clever romantic comedy by playwright George Bernard Shaw.

5/22-6/7: Singin’ in the Rain Spreckels Theatre 121 Broadway, Downtown 858.560.5740, sdmt.org This adaptation of the classic 1952 film about Hollywood’s early days features silent movie actors struggling to adapt to “talkies” and an actual onstage rainstorm.

5/23-6/21: Rich Girl The Old Globe 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park 619.231.1941, theoldglobe.org The bumbling daughter of a rich and famous mother is courted by a gallant artist whom Mommy swears is really after their money in this humorous new play loosely based on the Henry James novel, Washington Square.

5/23-6/21: Beau Jest Scripps Ranch Theatre 9783 Avenue of Nations, Scripps Ranch 858.578.7728, scrippsranchtheatre.org In this endearing comedy, an attractive young schoolteacher eager to appease her ethnocentric parents hires a non-Jewish actor to play her Jewish boyfriend at an important family dinner.

5/30: Whose Live Anyway?

California Center for the Arts 340 North Escondido Blvd., Escondido 800.988.4253, artcenter.org Improv virtuosos from TV’s Whose Line Is It Anyway? talk their way out of absurd situations in this meeting of comedic masterminds; audience participation encouraged.

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PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM • MAY 2015

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53

Pulse {MOVIES}

THE REEL WORLD MAY motion picture preview

By Michael Benninger

k c bailey

She’s Funny That Way Comedy | Drama Starring: Owen Wilson, Imogen Poots, Jennifer Aniston In Theatres: May 1 In this tale of intersecting love triangles, the director of a Broadway play pays a call-girlslash-aspiring-actress for sex, and then gives her an onstage role alongside one of her former paramours and his (the director’s) wife.

Far from the Madding Crowd Drama | Romance Starring: Carey Mulligan, Matthias Schoenaerts, Tom Sturridge In Theatres: May 8 Set in Victorian England and based on the 1874 book by Thomas Hardy, this film tells the tale of a spirited young woman and her struggle to choose only one of the three men courting her.

Avengers: Age of Ultron Action | Adventure Starring: Robert Downey, Jr., Scarlett Johansson, James Spader In Theatres: May 1 When an evil entity known as Ultron sets out to destroy life on Earth, Ironman, Captain America and the rest of the Avengers come to the rescue.

Misery Loves Comedy Documentary Starring: Tom Hanks, Jimmy Fallon, Judd Apatow In Theatres: May 8 In this sidesplitting documentary, actor and impressionist Kevin Pollak interviews more than 60 celebrated comedians to discover how they got started in the business and what drives them to continue making strangers laugh.

Pitch Perfect 2 Comedy | Musical Starring: Elizabeth Banks, Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson In Theatres: May 15 The a cappella all-stars from Barden University enter an international singing competition, taking on Europe’s best singers.

(cont. on page 56)

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PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM • may 2015

Pulse {MOVIES} (cont. from page 54)

Hot Pursuit Action | Adventure Starring: Reese Witherspoon, Sofía Vergara, Robert Kazinsky In Theatres: May 8 A perky Southern policewoman is tasked with protecting a saucy, loudmouthed Latina who witnessed a crime and is at risk of being killed by dirty cops and drug dealers.

S am E mers o n

Mad Max: Fury Road Fantasy | Action Starring: Tom Hardy, Charlize Theron, Nicholas Hoult In Theatres: May 15 In a lawless world where life is cheap and resources are scarce, a loner roaming through a desolate landscape joins forces with a female fugitive fighting to survive.

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PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM • may 2015

I Am Big Bird: The Caroll Spinney Story Documentary Starring: Caroll Spinney In Theatres: May 15 This documentary chronicles the life of the octogenarian puppeteer who’s continuously played Sesame Street’s Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch since the show’s inception over four and a half decades ago.

Tomorrowland Fantasy | Sci-Fi | Mystery Starring: George Clooney, Britt Robertson, Hugh Laurie In Theatres: May 22 After finding a mysterious pendant that transports her to another realm, a young girl becomes determined to discover the truth about her destiny.

San Andreas Action | Drama Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Alexandra Daddario, Carla Gugino In Theatres: May 29 In the wake of a cataclysmic earthquake, a helicopter pilot strives to save his daughter, but the worst of the devastation is yet to come.

Aloha Drama | Romance Starring: Emma Stone, Rachel McAdams, Bradley Cooper In Theatres: May 29 An embattled military man is torn between a stunning, but straightlaced Air Force major and the one who got away in this exploration of relationships and the virtues of commitment.

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57

Pulse {fitness}

Raising the

Barre A female bodybuilder’s attempt at ballerina bootcamp

By Megan Looney Photos by Paul Body

W

hen a trainer at North County’s new dance-inspired fitness boutique challenged me to “discover why Swan Lake is harder on the arms than the legs,” I jumped at the chance.

The Movement Lab offers a slew of sexy, sweat sessions including group burlesque, twerk and Buti yoga. When I walk into the small studio, the head instructor and owner, Susan White, who has more than 25 years of dance and performance experience, is mic’d, energetic and ready to go. As she starts playing pounding party music, the class of about 20 women, dressed in spandex and sports bras, begin stretching, and I follow suit.

The Double Bill Extension Method class combines cardio, beginner ballet and light weight-training. As a woman who’s more accustomed to pumping iron than pirouetting, I thought the class would be a stretch for me, but I found it to be fun and surprisingly approachable.

“I just wanted to encourage people to move, and to move within their own limitations without frustration,” says White after the class is finished. “[I wanted] to create a culture of like-minded people moving to the beat of their own drum.”

Despite occasionally feeling like I had two left feet, I had such a blast with ballet that I figured I would try a second Movement Lab core class, Buti Yoga. “[Buti] is a fusion of yoga, tribal dance and weaving in elements of plyometrics,” says instructor Mary Catherine Shurett. “It’s super feminine and sensual and just a celebration of feminine movement.”

Moving to high-energy, bass-filled beats, Shurett starts the class by encouraging everyone

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PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM • may 2015

The Movement Lab 243 N Hwy 101, Ste. 3, Solana Beach 858.354.2070, themovementlab.org to set an “intention,” hers being forgiveness.

Before she discovered Buti, Shurett tells me she was a personal trainer who, by performing repetitive “masculine movements,” had forged an unhealthy body image for herself. “I was 25, no libido, no sex drive and in a sexless marriage — and then I found Buti, and it began to open and awaken all of those parts of myself that I thought were literally gone,” she says. “I had so much shame around my body and I find that so many women are experiencing the same thing without having the language to understand it or the tools to know how to fix it or solve the problem, and they’re walking around thinking they’re broken. And they’re not.”

Shurett says her class is about working with

the female body and encouraging women to embrace their curves while experiencing a deeper level of self-love.

As I join in on the gyrating, floor pounding, hip rolling and shimmy shaking, I can’t help but smile. Even the one male in the room seems to be embracing his inner goddess.

“If the men are there to really receive their feminine awakening, because we all hold masculine and feminine energies, if they’re really there to hold that kind of sacred space, then great,” Shurett says.

There is no judgment at this studio, only smiling, sweaty bodies that linger outside long after classes are finished to chat with fellow fitness enthusiasts and instructors.

One regular, Alexandra Zammit​, recently signed up for the three-month Bridal Bootcamp package to get in shape for her upcoming nuptials.

“I am so in love with the studio, the people and the Extension Method that I am now planning on being a member of the studio for life,” Zammit says.

Sign up for a hip-hop “Twerkshop,” work your booty and learn to love your body. There are 15 classes in all, and the two I took were a blast, not to mention great workouts.

Sip and Spin

A new way to break a sweat at FLUXX A DJ isn’t going to be the only one spinning at FLUXX Nightclub in the Gaslamp on Saturday, May 16. Break a sweat on the dance floor during the daylight hours as SparkCycle takes over the club for a fundraiser benefitting the Challenged Athletes Foundation’s Operation Rebound, which helps American military personnel, veterans and first responders with physical challenges.

“We’re constantly elevating and reinventing the nightlife scene in San Diego,” says FLUXX general manager James Thorp. “A spin class on the FLUXX dance floor, the state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, and a DJ spinning is a very cool way for us to

offer something different that blends the city’s active lifestyle with our nightclub experience. We’re glad we can also support such a great cause.”

A ticket to FLUXX Spin includes a 45-minute SparkCycle spin class set to strobe lights and heartpumping beats, shoes for the ride and a gush-worthy Lululemon swag bag.

Cycle times are 1:00 and 1:55 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to hang out pre and/or post-spin to enjoy the cold-pressed juice bar, healthy treats and specialty cocktails by Belvedere vodka. Admission includes one drink ticket, so cheers to your health. Sign up at fluxxsd.com.

5/16: FLUXX Spin at FLUXX NIGHTCLUB 500 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp 619.232.8100, fluxxsd.com

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59

P U L S E {CITY}

The Wheel Deal Thousands of spokes people expected to ditch the whip for National Bike to Work Day

By Tony Lovitt

N

early 10,000 San Diegans are projected to ride to work on two wheels on May 15, Bike to Work Day, demonstrating a healthier (for body and planet) alternative to commuting by car.

“I think 1995 or 1996 was the first year that we actually started sponsoring Bike to Work, and it’s grown each year,” says Ray Traynor, director of operations for the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG), whose transportation program, iCommute, is one of three mobility-management programs

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within Traynor’s purview.

In addition to exceeding last year’s number of participants (8,700-plus), this year’s Bike to Work event has a special goal.

“We’re putting a challenge out there to see if the region’s participants can [cumulatively] log 25,000 miles on Bike to Work Day, which would result in burning a million calories and is the equivalent of riding your bike around the Earth one time,” Traynor says. iCommute offers online support, encouraging riders to use a trip tracker and other tools available at gobybikesd. com, SANDAG’s one-stop portal

for anything relating to bicycling, including the registration site (click on “Participate”) for Bike to Work Day 2015.

Traynor says participants can enjoy free refreshments, pick up a complimentary T-shirt and get enthusiastic encouragement at any of the event’s 100-or-so strategically located pit stops.

“This event really serves as a catalyst for [participants] to get out and to give bicycling [as transportation] a try,” Traynor says.

Given SANDAG’s

commitment to investing $200 million to expand regional bike facilities and add 77 new miles of bikeways over the next 10 years, plus the City of San Diego’s partnership with DecoBike — a solar-powered bike rental and sharing station, of which there are 80 around town and 100 more to come — America’s Finest citizens may soon opt for two-wheeled transportation more than just one day per year.

mik e di edo ard o

Rent a ride on Bike to Work Day (or any day) at one of the 80 solar-powered DecoBike sharing stations countywide.

Shop... with the Breast Intentions

Sunday, May 3 The VIPink Brunch Westfield Mission Valley and Pacific magazine invite you to The VIPink Brunch + Ultimate Shopping Experience.

On Sunday, May 3, from 11a.m. to 2 p.m, enjoy craft cocktails, brunch bites and live music along with exclusive discounts and shopping perks.

You’ll be helping to fight breast cancer just by showing up.

San Diego

M

A

G

A

Z

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TIckeTS Include:

• Live music and DJ beats • Brunch bites by Gordon Biersch • Fashion modeling • Craft cocktails by Rumbling Tins • Styling by Fashion Group International • Complimentary beauty services • Stylish activities, giveaways and fashionable fun • Samples, swag and exclusive discounts Purchase tickets and find more information at fundraise.brightpink.org/VIPinkBrunch

A G AV E E X P R

PLEASE ENJOY MILAGRO RESPONSIBLY. Milagro Tequila, 40% Alc./Vol. (80 Proof) ©2015 William Grant & Sons Inc., New York, NY.

ESS IONIS M

MILAGRO

MEANS

MIRACLE

PRESENTS

BECAUSE CINCO DE MAYO LASTS ONLY ONE DAY...

MARGARITAMONTH.COM

MAY 1–MAY 31, 2015

Bars and restaurants countywide are competing to make San Diego’s best margarita.

For your chance to win $1,000 in gift certificates from participating venues, order the margaritas featured on the following pages, then post your pics to Instagram and hashtag #margaritamonth and #venuename.

#MARGARITAMONTH

The Curious Demise of El Tortuga Milagro Silver Tequila, scotch, fresh lime juice, topped with orange juice, muddled jalapeños, salted rim, drizzle of raspberry syrup.

Bootlegger 804 Market St., East Village 619.794.2668, bootleggersd.com #bootleggersd

La Milagrosa Rosa

A refreshing blend of Milagro Tequila Silver, Cointreau, lime juice and agave nectar —with a splash of pomegranate juice that makes this drink perfectly pink, just in time for spring.

Casa Guadalajara 4105 Taylor St., Old Town 619.295.5111, casaguadalajara.com #casaguadalajara 66

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Milagro Mexican Belini Margarita

A tasty combination of Milagro Sliver Tequila, Cointreau, white peach syrup, sweet and sour mix, and organic sliced white peaches, shaken and served on the rocks — a refreshing summer treat.

Casa De Bandini 1901 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad 760.634.3443, casadebandini.com #casadebandini

Milagro Mercado Margarita

Milagro Tequila Silver, Azucar Morena syrup, fresh-squeezed lime juice, muddled cucumber, cilantro and jalapeño served over ice in a glass rimmed with Chamoy and Tajín. Garnished with fresh cucumber slice and cilantro sprig.

Casa Sol Y Mar 12865 El Camino Real, Del Mar 585.792.4100, casasolymar.com #casasolymar

Ciroita

Milagro Silver Tequila, house-made agave syrup, fresh juices of lime and orange, topped with Cointreau.

Ciro’s Pizzeria & Beerhouse 536 Market St., Gaslamp 619.696.0405, cirossd.com #ciros

Margarita Primavera Blanco tequila, freshly squeezed lime juice and triple sec.

El Callejon Encinitas 345 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas 760.634.2793, el-callejon.com #elcallejonencinitas

Hot & Smokey Margarita

Milagro Silver Tequila, lemon, lime, agave, muddled serrano pepper, finished with a Mezcal float and chili-lime salt rim.

Don Chido 527 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.232.8226, DonChido.com #DonChido

drunken Mermaid Margarita Milagro Silver Tequila, St. Germain, blue margarita mix, sweet and sour, serrano chilies and cucumber.

Fat Fish Cantinagrill 4474 Mission Blvd., Pacific Beach 858.490.2877, fatfishcantinagrill.com #fatfishcantinagrill May 2015 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM

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Border Crossing

Mandarin orange- and mint-infused Milagro Silver Tequila, triple sec, lime juice, topped with a splash of ginger beer and served with a tamarind-spice rim.

Florent Restaurant and Lounge 672 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.595.0123, florentsd.com #florentsd

Thai Chili and Ginger Margarita Thai chili-infused Milagro Silver Tequila, fresh lime sour, agave nectar, topped with ginger beer.

Indigo Grill 1536 India St., Little Italy 619.234.6802, indigogrill.com #indigogrill 68

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Mango Margarita

Fresh mango pulp, Chamoy, triple sec, Milagro Silver Tequila, Valentina and Tajín rim.

Funky Garcia’s 421 Market St., Gaslamp 619.233.8659, funkygarcias.com #funkygarcias

Johnny V Margarita Tequila, fresh lime, agave and grapefruit.

Johnny V 945 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach 858.274.4833, johnnyvsd.com #johnnyvpb

Tavern Jalapeno Margarita Muddled jalapeños, lime and agave shaken with silver tequila and fresh citrus juice.

Lumberyard Tavern 967 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas 760.479.1657, lumberyard101.com #lumberyardtavern

House Margarita Silver tequila, fresh lemon, fresh lime juice and agave syrup.

Pacific Beach Shore Club 4343 Ocean Blvd., Pacific Beach 858.272.7873, pbshoreclub.com #pbshoreclub

Passion Fruit Margarita Milagro Silver Tequila, passion fruit puree, fresh lime juice, Sugar in the Raw syrup, Cointreau.

Oceana Coastal Kitchen 3999 Mission Blvd., Pacific Beach 858.777.6711, catamaranresort.com #oceanacoastal

Classic Margarita

2 oz. Milagro Silver Tequila, 1 oz. Cointreau, 1 oz. lime juice, garnished with a lime wheel.

Pop’s Liquor Cabinet 540 F St., Gaslamp 619.487.9276, popsbarsd.com #popsbar may 2015 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM

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El Gringo margarita Milagro Silver Tequila, crema agria, fresh lime juice, orange zest.

Puesto 789 W. Harbor Dr., Marina District 1026 Wall St., La Jolla 619.233.8880, eatpuesto.com #eatpuesto

El Choncho

Muddled pineapple and jalapeño shaken with reposado tequila, hand-squeezed lime and agave nectar, garnished with a Tajín rim and a pineapple leaf.

Tavern 1200 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach 858.272.6066, tavernatthebeach.com #tavernpb 70

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Adios Felicia

This is refreshing, beach-inspired variation of a margartia. Using the classic tequila, lime, and agave as the framework, we added Ancho Reyes Chile Liqueur as well as Blue Curaçao. The glass is rimmed with a special blend of Tajin spice,

Sandbar Sports Grill 718 Ventura Pl., Mission Beach 858.488.1274, sandbarsportsgrill.com #sandbar718

Spicy Blood Orange Margarita Milagro Silver Tequila, triple sec, lime juice, blood orange syrup, muddled jalapeños.

The Blind Burro 639 J St., East Village 619.795.7880, theblindburro.com #theblindburro

cervezarita

Milagro Silver Tequila, triple sec, sweet and sour mix, Sprite, topped with a Coronita and served in a bucket.

The Deck at Moonshine Flats 335 Sixth Ave., East Village 619.255.7625, moonshineflats.com/thedeck #thedeckatmsf

Mango Paradise Margarita

Milagro Silver Tequila, fresh lime juice, mango agave syrup, Jalgaon syrup, rimmed with hing ravi powder, garnished with a chili wheel.

The Local PB 809 Thomas Ave., Pacific Beach 858.263.7475, thelocalpb.com #drinklocalpb

Verdita Margarita

Silver Tequila, housemade Verdita, agave nectar.

Verdita is our house blend of fresh pineapple juice, mint, cilantro and roasted jalapeĂąo. Refreshing, with a kick!

The Duck Dive 4650 Mission Blvd., Pacific Beach 858.273.3825, theduckdive.com #theduckdive

Prado Pacific

Milagro Silver Tequila, Cointreau, infused margarita mix.

The Prado at Balboa Park 1549 El Prado, Balboa Park 619.557.9441, pradobalboa.com #pradobalboapark may 2015 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM

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La Sandía

Jalapeño-infused Milargo Silver Tequila, Cointreau, fresh lemon and a watermelon purée.

Served in a Tajín-rimmed glass.

The Rabbit Hole 3377 Adams Ave., Normal Heights 619.255.4653, rabbitholesd.com #rabbitholesd

Spicy Mango Margarita

Tequila infused with jalapeños, mango puree, agave nectar syrup, fresh lime and orange juice, served with a Tajín chili rim.

True North Tavern 3815 30th St., North Park 619.291.3815, truenorthtavern.com #truenorthtavern 72

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Tamarind Margarita

Fresh tamarind pulp, tamarind syrup, triple sec, Milagro Silver Tequila, sweet and sour mix, Valentina and Tajín rim.

The Reef at Mariscos El Pupo 401 Market St., Gaslamp 619.795.8820, thereefbarsd.com #thereefbarsd

Picante Y Dulce Milagro Margarita

Four muddle lychees, three pinches housemade chipotle chili spice, squeeze of half fresh lime, lychee syrup, triple sec, Milagro Silver Tequila, chipotle chili-spiced rim, orchid garnish.

Wonderland Ocean Pub 5083 Santa Monica Ave., Ste. 2C, Ocean Beach 619.255.3358, wonderlandob.com #wonderlandoceanbeach

FACE

THE

M

Sample the sounds, sights and sensations of spring/summer in San Diego. Wipe the snow off your parka and ditch the ice scraper — America’s Finest music scene is heating up, promising local folk another scorching season. The following pages highlight some of the bands, shows and venues to which San Diego music fans will lend an ear in the coming weeks and months. Flip around (just like we used to do on FM), create your playlist, and then visit pacificsandiego.com to win tickets to:

Brad Paisley Darius Rucker Def Leppard Dierks Bentley Fall Out boy Florida Georgia Line Foo Fighters J. Cole James Otto Lady Antebellum Lana Del Rey Luke Bryan Marco Antonio solis Matisyahu Nickelback Nicki Minaj Sandollar Super Groupie Train Van Halen Vokab Kompany

Whirled Class

Get spun by the world’s top DJ talent

As promised — by billboards all over town and the inside front cover of this magazine — the world’s biggest names in EDM are finally set to arrive in San Diego.

OMNIA San Diego, the West Coast megaclub sister of Hakkasan Group’s OMNIA Las Vegas, opens downtown on April 30. And from day one, the lineup, like the club itself, promises to be over the top.

OMNIA Las Vegas’ opening weekend in March featured performances by Calvin Harris, Martin Garrix and Justin Bieber (who celebrated his 21st birthday at the venue, although he may have consumed his first drink sometime earlier in life). Following suit, OMNIA San Diego’s debut is sure to bring A-list celebs to America’s Finest’s nighttime playground.

With celebrities on stage and in the audience, these guys are really shooting for the stars.

OMNIA San Diego

454 Sixth Ave., Gaslamp 619.544.9500, omnianightclub.com

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OMN IA

4/30: Krewella 5/2: Chuckie 5/8: NERVO 5/9: 3LAU 5/15: AFROJACK 5/16: Fergie DJ 5/21: Armin van Buuren 5/22: Borgeous 5/23: R3hab 5/29: Tiësto 5/30: THE Chainsmokers

Tiësto

nervo

D an M o nic k

krewella

N i k k o L a M ere

A lex A baun z a

the chainsmokers

borgeous

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John Mireles

Andy Altman (right) and his father, GigTown co-founder Steve Altman, at Quartyard in East Village, where bands booked through the Gig Town app sometimes perform.

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TUNE TOWN

SANDOLLAR

New app consolidates local music community by tony lovitt

Want to book a local musician to play at your next party, listen (Pandora-style) to the music of a broad spectrum of local bands, or rate the performance of a local group that just rocked your favorite bar? Well, now you can, thanks to GigTown (gigtown.com), an innovative new app that, for the first time, puts San Diego’s diverse and dynamic local music community at the fingertips of Smartphone users.

“We’re putting a lot of functionality in it,” says GigTown CEO Andy Altman, 25, a student in USD’s JD/MBA program. “You can basically explore your local music community in terms of listening for songs by local artists, see videos of them playing, and check out their bio information and ratings and reviews from people that have previously booked them for gigs.”

GigTown is the brainchild of Andy and his father, Steve Altman, former president and vice chairman of Qualcomm. Each year, Andy’s parents produce a fundraising event for Type 1 diabetes called Rock the Cure, at which one or two local bands open for a big-name act like Styx or Foreigner.

“From that, they were exposed to the difficulty in booking live music,” says Andy. “I had relied really heavily on Uber while I was at Coachella and, like so many other apps, we kept thinking of, you know, how do you ‘Uber-ize’ different industries? So, [GigTown] sort of started as that ‘Uber for music’ concept, but it evolved into so much more than that.”

Andy cites a couple of his personal favorite bands — Super Groupie and Sandollar* — as being among the nearly 200 (and steadily growing number of) local acts that have created artist profiles on GigTown.

“There’s so much talent out there,” he says. “Essentially, we’re trying to put the local music community in your pocket.”

Backed by a father who helped put the phones in so many pockets in the first place, Qualcomm’s prodigal son seems destined for success.

Stay tuned… *PacificSD used the GigTown app to book Super Groupie and Sandollar for a local music and beer festival to be held May 28. See details, page 15.

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For Love of Country Downtown club kicks up its heels with next-level talent

By Stephanie Eng

Kristin B arl o w e

Dust off your cowboy boots — if you’re into country music, you’ll want them for a night of good, clean fun out at East Village’s Moonshine Flats, billed as a “honky-tonk bar with a sexy edge.”

Moonshine Flats (formerly Block No. 16) opened in February 2014 and features live country music and line dancing. The venue also has an open-roof bar, The Deck at Moonshine Flats, where a “backyard barbeque” vibe, outdoor games and a smaller stage for acoustic shows set the scene.

Having hosted regional acts Frankie Ballard and John Pardi, Moonshine Flats will up the ante in May, according to Ty Hauter, CEO of Good Time Design, which also operates Bub’s @ the Ballpark and Blind Blurro among other popular downtown destinations.

“It’s the caliber of going to a larger-scale concert in a small venue,” says Hauter.

Country music fans can expect to see an impressive lineup that includes James Otto, American Young, Old Dominion, Dallas Smith, Jason Charles Miller and Blackjack Billy in the coming weeks.

Moonshine Flats 344 Seventh Ave, East Village 619.255.7625, moonshineflats.com

DALLAS SMITH OLD DOMINION

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AMERICAN YOUNG

WORD! S.D’s Vokab Kompany gives fans something new to talk about

By Stephanie Eng

MC Robbie “Rob Hurt” Gallo, who describes himself as an “adventurous kid” from Lake Tahoe, and his band mate, a former teacher and current vocalist Matt “Burke Baby” Burke, don’t look like typical rap stars. Nor would they want to be pigeonholed as representing just the one genre.

Co-founders of San Diego-based band Vokab Kompany, Gallo and Burke headline local concerts and get booked for sold-out gigs in Las Vegas, Seattle, New Orleans and beyond.

“I’m happy with being successful and not having to work any other job, except for music, for the rest of my life,” says Gallo.

Given its electronic, hip-hop and pop elements — mixed with Gallo and Burke’s signature lyrical styles — the band’s forthcoming

The Good Kompany Album (set to drop in June) promises to appeal to a wide audience. “[It’s] is our most positive album, for sure,” says Burke. He explains that the record’s title reflects the “good company” he and Gallo keep — their families, friends and fellow musicians.

Vokab Kompany consists of Gallo, Burke, bassist Vikingo “Viking” Burkhiser, guitarist Richard Galiguis, drummer Tyler Olson and Geoff Nigl on keyboard and guitar.

Follow the band, find show dates and pre-order their upcoming album at vokabkompany.com.

Catch an exclusive Vokab Kompany live performance at PacificSD’s Magarita Month Grand Tasting event, May 31 at the Horton Grand Hotel. (See details, page 131.)

Andrew Jorgensen

vokab Kompany

Vokab Kompany band mates and co-founders Matt “Burke Baby” Burke (left) and Robbie “Rob Hurt” Gallo.

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Bandwidth More than 100 musicians, comedians and artists to invade Del Mar this fall

Beginning September 18, San Diegans will be able to enjoy a Coachella-esque three-dayconcert weekend featuring major headlining acts — without having to sweat the two-anda-half-hour drive to Indio.

No Doubt, The Killers, Zac Brown Band, Snoop Dogg, Foster the People, 311, Slightly Stoopid, Sheryl Crow and many others will perform on seven stages where the turf meets the surf during KAABOO. The Friday/Saturday/Sunday event will also feature live performances by comedians Joel McHale, Lewis Black, Chris D’Elia, among many others.

“The process of building KAABOO has been exciting and enlightening for the team,” says Bryan Gordon, founder and CEO of KAABOO. “Everyone has offered input into what they would like to see incorporated into the event, and we’re hopeful that we’re crafting something special with our inaugural KAABOO.” Although the live outdoor music will cease nightly at 10 p.m., the Friday and Saturday night ragers will continue indoors until 2:30 a.m. Party-rockers will be able to refuel on grub from nearby eateries (including Searsucker, Cucina Enoteca and Puesto) and peruse public art and an on-site the contemporary art fair.

The Hang Loose pass ($299) grants general admission and access to all seven stages; the Hang Five VIP pass ($799) is good for VIP entrance and exit, SuperLounge access, luxury seating, charging stations, premium restrooms and more; the Hang Ten VIP pass ($2,499) includes Hang Five VIP items plus complimentary food and drinks, artist lounge access, valet parking, headliner meet-and-greet opportunities and more.

For the complete lineup, festival rules and to purchase passes, visit kaaboodelmar.com.

9/18-20: KAABOO @ Del Mar Fairgrounds kaaboodelmar.com

no doubt

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Southern Reel

zac brown band

snoop dogg

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HI, DIVE!

DIVE DAY PARTY Win tickets to Dive Day Party at Harrah’s Resort SoCal at pacificsandiego.com.

Say hello to SoCal’s new Sunday Funday

By Jessica Pelligra San Diegans remember Intervention Sundays’ final moment as the day the music died. America’s Finest pool party, which rocked for six straight years at Float at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, has been silenced.

Picking up the slack and now making a splash on Sundays (for the past two summers, it’s been on Saturdays), Dive Day Party and Harrah’s Resort SoCal features a trifecta of pools, the county’s only swim-up bar and a cool collection of more than 20 cabanas and daybeds surrounding powerhouse poolside DJs. “Talent for the 2015 season will be well-rounded and focus on a variety of genres,” says Omid Sabet, partner at Five Group, the entertainment operations and management company responsible for booking Dive’s talent and overseeing the event series. “We’re bringing a better balance to the day club experience, which has been missing for some time.”

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If part of the fun at Dive is getting wet, then the venue’s high-end offerings are certainly something to soak-in.

“We added a pool and increased our capacity so that we can have more people experience Dive,” says Sabet. “We have also enhanced VIP this season, blowing it out of the water with the addition of helicopter rides from two airports in San Diego.”

See Yellow Claw perform at Dive’s opening day on Sunday, May 17.

Find tickets and more info at divedayclub.com and be ready to call in sick on Monday (Harrah’s has hotel rooms, BTW, and a float along the Lazy River beats going to work any day — just sayin’…)

DIVE DAY PARTY AT HARRAH’S RESORT SOCAL 777 Harrah’s Rincon Way, Valley Center 760.751.3100, harrahssocal.com

You Can’t Always Get What You Want But if you try, and/or are willing to shell out big for scalpers, you might just catch the Stones at Petco Park

The most classic of rockers, The Rolling Stones, kick off their North American, 15-stop Zip Code tour at Petco Park on May 24, marking a nearly decade-long absence since their last San Diego performance.

In November 2005, The Rolling Stones became the first band to perform at the then-new Petco Park, only to be followed by the likes of Madonna (2008), Avicii (2011), Paul McCartney (2014) and Taylor Swift (this coming August), among others.

A lucky 41,500 concert-goers will get to see Mick Jagger and company perform live in center field during the sure-to-be epic show and the only West Coast date scheduled for the Stones’ 2015 tour.

5/24: Rolling Stones @ Petco Park padres.com/rollingstones

PacificSD scored 1,000 tickets to the Rolling Stones concert, and we’re giving them away at pacificsandiego.com. (Kidding, we’re just hoping for a pair of good seats. Who’s got ’em?!)

the rolling stones

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Party Down South San Diego’s hit music radio station brings A-list performers to Chula Vista’s big house

Artists peforming at the Channel 933 Summer Kickoff Concert (listed in alphabetical order): David Guetta (electro, house): “Hey Mamma” featuring Nicki Minaj and Afrojack Echosmith (indie rock, alternative): “Bright” Fifth Harmony (pop, dance): “Worth It” featuring Kid Ink Jason Derulo (pop, R&B): “Want to Want Me” Meghan Trainor (pop): “Lips are Movin” Pitbull (hip-hop, pop): “Time of Our Lives” featuring Ne-Yo Prince Royce (Latin pop, bachata): “Stuck on a Feeling” featuring Snoop Dogg 5/8: Channel 933 Summer Kickoff Concert Sleep Train Amphitheatre, channel933.com

echosmith

Nic o le N o dland

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Dennis Leup o ld

On May 8, some of the planet’s hottest Top 40 megastars will rock South County during Channel 933’s annual Summer Kickoff Concert at the Sleep Train Amphitheatre stage.

“Every year, San Diego knows summer is here because of this premiere music event,” says Channel 933 program director Joe Haze. “To get so many different types of artists in the pop world on one stage is amazing!”

Check the full lineup of performers below and get amped for the big show by adding their current chart-topping hits (listed next to the artist’s names) to your favorite playlists.

PRINCE ROYCE

Ellen Von Un wert h

david guetta

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amp a theatre More than a dozen bands scheduled to rock Sleep Train

The 32nd installment of alternative rock radio station 91X’s annual X-Fest brings rockers Modest Mouse, punk band Pennywise, hip-hoppers Public Enemy and more to the Sleep Train Amphitheatre stage on Sunday, June 7.

“The genres of 91X are far and wide,” says 91X program director Mike Halloran. “We were the first local station to play Public Enemy back in the day, and Pennywise and The Cult and Modest Mouse — those guys are about as diverse as you can get. [X-Fest] is a great day to get out and see those and other bands.”

Purchase tickets at 91X.com or head to the 91X studios in Sorrento Valley with a receipt showing a recent Bud Light purchase (of a 12-, 18-or 30pack) to save $8.25 on lawn seats. And if that’s not enough alt. rock action for one summer weekend,

check out the X-Fest Warm-Up Show, featuring Unwritten Law and Ten Foot Tall, Saturday night, June 6, at House of Blues downtown (houseofblues.com/sandiego).

X-Fest 2015 performance lineup: Modest Mouse (alt rock) The Cult (rock) Pennywise (punk) Public Enemy (hip-hop) Cold War Kids (rock, soul) Death from Above 1979 (rock) Yelawolf (rap, rock) Atlas Genius (indie, alt) The Orwells (rock) Robert DeLong (electronic, rock) Meg Myers (pop, rock) Shady Francos (rock) Moon Hooch (jazz fusion) and more 6/7: 91X X-Fest @ Sleep Train Amphitheatre 91X.com

B en M o o n

MODEST MOUSE

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Matisyahu

Now Ear This A day of fun in the sun and sand in Mission Beach this May

From OMBAC (Old Mission Beach Athletic Club) — the folks behind the annual (and lascivious and sometimes topless) Over the Line softball-like tournament — comes the 3rd annual Beach Music Festival, to be held May 9 on Mission Bay. “I’m excited about [this year’s event] because it’s our strongest lineup ever,” says Patrick Vaughan, chairman of the OMBAC Beach Music Fest. “Very rarely in San Diego do you get the opportunity to have an adult beverage in the sand and enjoy a show.”

Supported by Miller Lite and the Belly Up Tavern, the 21-andup waterfront festival will feature live performances by reggae/ hip-hop headliner Matisyahu, reggae act The Green, hip-hop/ electronica duo Vokab Kompany and ’80s dance band Betamaxx.

The beers and bands by the bay will blast from 2 to 9 p.m.

5/9: OMBAC Beach Music Fest Mission Bay Park, ombac.org

Win tickets to OMBAC Beach Music Fest at pacificsandiego.com.

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Acts to

Grind Megastar music makers making their way to ’Merica’s Finest

In July 1998, what had previously been a 72-acre dairy farm became Coors Amphitheatre (Cricket Wireless purchased naming rights in 2008; Sleep Train signed a five-year naming-rights deal in 2013). That same month, pop-rock group Chicago became the first band to take the then-new stage. In August 2013, British pop sensation The Spice Girls performed the first sold-out show at the venue, which seats 10,000 and has a lawn capacity of an additional 10,000.

Now, nearly 20 years since the amphitheatre’s inception, Sleep Train’s 2015 concert offerings include artists ranging from Brad Paisley to Nickelback, Van Halen to Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj to Chayanne and many more big-time artists in between.

Sleep Train Amphitheatre 2015 lineup: 5/8: Channel 933 Summer Kickoff 5/16: Lana Del Rey, Courtney Love 5/23: Train 6/6: Brad Paisley* 6/7: 91X’s X-Fest 6/27: Nickelback 7/10: Lady Antebellum* 7/17: J. Cole, Big Sean 7/18: 5 Seconds of Summer 8/2: Darius Rucker* 8/8: Fall Out Boy, Wiz Khalifa 8/13: Nicki Minaj 8/16: Dierks Bentley* 9/9: Ariana Grande 9/13: Chayanne 9/22: Def Leppard 9/24: Foo Fighters 9/30: Van Halen 10/3: Florida Georgia Line* 10/16: Luke Bryan*

*Miller Lite Country MegaTicket artists — see all six country shows with the purchase of one mega ticket. Find details and tickets at megaticket.com.

Sleep Train Amphitheatre 2050 Entertainment Cir., Chula Vista 619.671.3500, sleeptrainamphitheatre.net

PacificSD is giving away tickets to every Sleep Train Amphitheatre show this concert season! See details, page 10.

Nicki Minaj

H oward Huan g

brad paisley

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foo fighters

Ant hon y Blasko

j. cole

ariana grande

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DINING OUT

All Heart Not to mention sweetbreads and other comfort foods from a passionate chef

By David Nelson / Photos by sara norris

F

orget canned TV “chef shows.” It’s all raw, live, non-stop action for the six diners who score counter seats at the open kitchen of Jesse Paul’s brand-new The Wooden Spoon in Escondido. Relaxing to watch? No. Invigorating, exciting and fun? Yes. (cont. on page 92)

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Chef-owner Jesse Paul (right) with wife and co-owner/GM Catherine at The Wooden Spoon in Escondido.

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taste {DINING OUT} (cont. from page 90) 82)

One of the county’s top-rated chefs, Paul used to sweat behind the scenes at swank places like Vivace, the highly praised Italian restaurant at Carlsbad’s Park Hyatt Aviara Resort. Now he’s the star of his own five-nightsa-week performances in a comfy but not flashy location on Valley Parkway, Escondido’s rambling East-West axis.

Since the building was constructed in the ’60s to house fast fooderies, the layout offers limited indoor seating, but the gracious outdoor area has room for a crowd — and heaters for cooler North County nights.

Although speedy chow composed former menus at this location, there’s nothing “fast” about the cuisine Paul and his two cooks hustle to prepare.

“This is a good challenge,” Paul says while plating a big serving of grilled chicken, hot biscuits and gravy.

“Hungry people come in, and I can feed them.”

As The Wooden Spoon logo states, Jesse feeds guests “Comfort Food Redefined,” and his menu revels in (cont. on page 84) items like “Offal of the Day.”

The Wooden Spoon’s grilled Mary’s chicken.

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FROM TOP: Grilled baby romaine; The Wooden Spoon along Valley Parkway in Escondido; inside The Wooden Spoon.

“I love organ meats,” says the chef, who has already presented a pile of chicken-fried sweetbreads tarted up with lemon aioli and showers of sliced celery — the sweetbreads, unctuous and luscious, play against crisp celery and sharp aioli to emphasize their buttery texture and delicate flavor.

“I’m starting off slow with sweetbreads, but I’m going to introduce braised hearts and so forth.”

Many sources inspire the fare, including the home cooking Paul grew up with and the down-home cooking he encountered elsewhere. As a result, starters include a deep bowl of rich broth that almost submerges a pair of dense, chewy matzo balls. It takes the edge off the appetite and then

some. Balancing this Old World soup are a toast of the day with crisp pork belly, vegetable-based pesto and provolone cheese; thick house fries drenched with gravy, if you want to up the ante by two bucks; and potato latkes cleverly finished with fragrant caraway cream and feisty apple relish. All potato pancakes should have it so good.

“I don’t want people to be hungry when they leave,” says Paul.

This explains why items like the Shepherd’s Pie — a flaky baked casserole of braised lamb, vegetables and potato gratin — are essential to The Wooden Spoon’s philosophy. The dish weighs at least a pound.

“It’s definitely filling,” says Paul, cheerful as he watches a counter guest plow through a serving.

(cont. on page 94) may 2015 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM

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taste {DINING OUT} (cont. from page 93)

The Wooden Spoon’s butterscotch pot du crème.

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Among other kitchen décor hangs three rectangular blackboards above the stoves and fryers. One of them bears the numbers 2/24/15, followed by a row of white chalk slashes that indicate how many days The Wooden Spoon has been in business. The place is so popular that, at some future date, Jesse will have to buy a bigger blackboard. He enjoys being busy, and, on a recent Tuesday night (nationwide, Tuesday is typically the slowest restaurant day of the week), nodded at the near-capacity crowd, claiming “It’s kind of slow compared to what we’ve been doing.”

All night long, Paul pulls flaky, buttery biscuits from the oven to be slathered with gravy, sided with grilled asparagus and topped with two pieces of chicken that, to be frank, have their legs crossed. It’s a best seller, rivaled only by the Spoon Burger, a hearty presentation dressed with the restaurant’s unique “Baconion jam,” arugula, smoked blue cheese and tomato aioli.

As a table’s order becomes ready, Paul sings to his cooks, “We’re coming up on two Shepherd’s, a burger and a chicken,” and everybody dances to get appetizing food on the plates while it’s sizzling.

Meanwhile, Paul saws a log of meatloaf into six hefty slices, piles them on a black slate plate and heaps on garnishes of “smashed” potatoes and honeyglazed carrots. Yes, the ketchup on the side is brewed here.

Tart and tangy as it is, the ketchup doesn’t explain the crowds. This is the job of The Wooden Spoon’s mission statement: Our food is made with love and respect. We are guided by passion and driven by perfection.

Hard work is a big part of it, too, but everybody seems to take that for granted.

The Wooden Spoon 805 E. Valley Pkwy., Escondido 760.745.0266 woodenspoonsd.com

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taste {DINING OUT}

Now You

Sea It

The oyster bar at East Village’s new Water Grill.

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A high-end steakhouse gives way to the motion of the ocean

By David Nelson / Photos by sara norris

For Southern California seafood mogul Sam King, the world is his oyster and (cont. on page 98) oysters are his world.

taste {DINING OUT} (cont. from page 96)

K

ing, who heads a family-owned restaurant empire that includes the new Water Grill in East Village, the Gaslamp’s Lou & Mickey’s and a number of King’s Fish House restaurants, also has a penchant for Florida stone crab claws. And spot prawns. And San Diego’s very own spiny lobsters (almost all of which currently ship out of town to sushi bars in Japan and seafood restaurants in China). And just about anything that thrives in salt water and pairs perfectly with the carefully chosen vintages appearing on his comprehensive wine lists.

“It’s a personal business,” King said of his role as restaurateur shortly before Water Grill’s March 19 opening. “You gotta enjoy it.”

Enjoy it, he does — especially when showing off a densely printed, three-page lunch menu that opens with 16 varieties of East and West Coast oysters, goes on to extravagant platters of chilled shellfish and binges on prime fresh fish entrées. Daily specials may include ultra-fresh Brittany Dover Sole at $45 per pound and a somewhat less expensive New Zealand pink bream. The menu accommodates the non-piscatorial with a few deluxe steaks and what King calls “a pretty damn good burger.” Actually, it’s a glam bacon-cheddar burger with fries.

The original Water Grill opened in downtown Los Angeles in the late 1980s as the neighborhood began a slow renaissance that led up to the current boom. San Diego’s Water Grill copies the “temple of seafood” approach, which emphasizes luxury and abundance in the same way a top-line steakhouse does. Fitting, since the building was originally formed to house the local branch of The Palm, the national steakhouse chain that shuttered its doors in January of 2014. The two-story structure was virtually rebuilt for Water Grill.

The look is rich but not formal. (cont. on page 100)

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Inside Water Grill.

Water Grill’s crudo sampler.

“We designed [the dining room] to make you feel like you’re inside a ship,” says King.

“This is all reclaimed lumber from around the country.”

Water Grill executive chef Fabrice Poigin.

The new Water Grill at the corner of J St. and Sixth Ave.

taste {DINING OUT} (cont. from page 98)

“W

e designed [the dining room] to make you feel like you’re inside a ship,” says King. “This is all reclaimed lumber from around the country.”

In fact, King wanted so much timber that he hired an expert to source the wood from Nebraska, West Virginia, and other places with many vintage barns and farmhouses.

While the new Sempra Energy office building nearing completion one block down J Street helped convince King to sign on to the location, he cites his lengthy experience as a San Diego restaurateur as the primary influence.

“San Diego is the seventh largest city in the country, and we think the local palate has grown

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CLOCKWISE (from top left): Water Grill’s grand platter; Chilean sea bass; the dining room and bar at Water Grill; halibut chorizo.

tremendously in the last 15 years,” he says. “Downtown has become one of the great places to live, and we hope Gaslamp will become more local in the next few years.

San Diego is the city of the future.”

The present seems pretty good as it is and Water Grill definitely improves the landscape. Franceborn chef Fabrice Poigin, whose lengthy local resume includes creating the original seafood menus for Sally’s on San Diego Bay and helming the kitchen at Bertrand at Mister A’s, is responsible for feeding 300 or more guests simultaneously when the restaurant’s two dining rooms and two private rooms are full.

“I’m a very blessed man, because I work for some very passionate people,” Poigin says.

Poigin is pretty passionate

“We try to satisfy every desire for seafood.” himself, a fact that shows up in items as diverse as his tartar sauce that accompanies his equally good Atlantic Cod fish and chips; the huge, freshly baked Tarte Tatin with buttery, melting apples and suave caramel; and utterly unexpected side dishes like braised kale with Greek yogurt and hazelnuts. As Poigin acknowledges, at Water Grill, the a la carte sides are anything but sideshows. An adventurous list that calms down with mashed Yukon Gold potatoes gets excited with highlights like grilled broccolini with Chinese sausage,

and roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and chestnuts.

“The menu items are pretty much the same as in L.A., and we’ll adapt as we go,” says King.

“We’re hoping to sell a lot of the live crabs and spiny lobsters that you don’t find at other seafood restaurants. We try to satisfy every desire for seafood. Guests can eat their way around the menu over many visits — they’re not going to get bored.”

Water Grill 615 J St., East Village 619.717.6992, watergrill.com

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may 2015 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM

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taste {what’s cooking}

Say Cheese

How to put the “I do” in “Fundido” Recipe and photos

by Brandon Matzek

I

magine — and then create — a warm cast-iron skillet filled with melty layers of cheese, roasted poblano pepper and sautéed onion and garlic. Finished with a vibrant green poblano sauce and leaves of fresh cilantro, this Roasted Poblano Queso Fundido is a musthave at any Cinco de Mayo bash. For a more traditional experience, serve with warm flour or corn tortillas.

Crunchy tortilla chips, an American accompaniment, also work well here.

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This Queso Fundido is made with a mix of Monterey Jack and Oaxaca cheeses. The Monterey Jack adds a pleasant tanginess to the blend, while the Oaxaca cheese lends a smooth, melty texture. You can find Oaxaca cheese at Specialty Produce or many Mexican markets around town.

Roasted Poblano Queso Fundido Ingredients 3 poblano peppers 1 small onion, finely diced 2 garlic cloves, minced and divided (1 for the cheese, 1 for the puree) 2 tbsp. canola oil (or other neutral oil), divided (1 for the cheese, 1 for the puree) 1 cup (8 oz.) grated Monterey Jack cheese 1 cup (8 oz.) grated Oaxaca cheese (mozzarella works well here, too) Juice of 1 lime, plus more to taste Kosher salt Fresh flour or corn tortillas, for serving Cilantro leaves, for serving Process Fired up. Preheat a broiler to high heat and set an oven rack as close as possible to the broiler. Place poblano peppers on a baking sheet and broil until blackened and blistered all over, turning several times to ensure even cooking. Transfer peppers to a small bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let the peppers steam for 10 minutes. This will make them easier to peel. Peel the blackened skins off each pepper, then remove and discard the stem. Open the peppers so they lay flat on a work surface and remove all seeds. Dice all peppers, but keep them separated. One pepper will be used for the Queso Fundido, the other 2 for the Roasted Poblano Purée.

Get melty. Preheat an oven to 425°F. Add 1 tablespoon canola oil to an 8-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add onion with a pinch of salt and cook until soft and just starting to brown (about 5 minutes). Stir in 1 minced garlic clove, 1 of the diced poblano peppers and another pinch of salt, cooking just until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in grated cheese, then transfer

the skillet to the oven. Bake until the cheese gets all melty, and the surface develops golden brown spots (10 – 15 minutes).

Flavor bomb. While the Queso Fundido is cooking, make the Roasted Poblano Purée.

Place 2 diced poblano peppers, 1 minced garlic clove, lime juice, 1 tablespoon canola oil and a pinch of salt in a small food processor or blender, pulsing to combine. Season to taste with kosher salt and lime juice.

Sauce and serve. Wrap tortillas in foil and warm in the oven for 5 minutes while the Queso Fundido is cooking. As soon as the Queso Fundido comes out of the oven, top with several spoonfuls of the purée and a scattering of cilantro leaves. Serve immediately with warm tortillas.

Easy Recipe

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may 2015 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM

103

taste {BEER}

Take it from the Tap Finest City Beer — scene & heard

By Brandon Hernández

Do Me a Flavor

New beers to cheers and brews to peruse Gose to Charity

Utilizing citrus and wordplay, Coronado Brewing’s mainland brewery crafted up a San Diegan take on an Old World gose to benefit the Beer to the Rescue campaign supporting the Lupus Foundation of Southern California.

A lesser-seen wheat ale, goses are brewed with salt to mimic the saline profile of the water in Goslar, Germany, where the style originated. Further enhancing the beer is a heaping helping of orange peel that plays well with its inherent lemony character.

Coronado Brewing Company, 1205 Knoxville St., Bay Park, coronadobrewing.com

X Out Lupus

Vista’s newest brewery is also getting in on the Beer to the Rescue action, releasing the campaign’s only bottled offering. Originally nicknamed the BLT (blueberry lupus tart), it’s a blueberry-infused sour beer that’s fermented exclusively using Brettanomyces, a breed of wild yeast that’s abhorred in winemaking for its degenerative effect, but has become en vogue in the beer world thanks to its ability to dry beer out while simultaneously funking it up.

Toolbox Brewing Company, 1495 Poinsettia Ave., Ste. 148, Vista, toolboxbrewing.com

(cont. on page 106)

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taste {BEER} (cont. from page 104)

Meet Your Maker Brewmaster Q&A Jeff Josenhans

Certified Cicerone and Sommelier, The U.S. Grant, Downtown

H

e’s the first co-certified wine and beer specialist in the county and has competed on a national level in the spirit world. That’s a lot of adult beverage know-how… at least a barrel’s worth. Jeff Josenhans recently collaborated with the East Village’s Mission Brewery on a beer he siphoned into barrels from fellow conspirators at High West Distillery to create something extremely unique, even in sudssoaked San Diego.

Explain the beer and what drinkers can expect.

We call this imperial red rye ale ‘Gentleman Grant.’ The concept is a result of a meeting with Mission brewmaster John Egan and owner Dan Selis. They heard me out on my intentions, then we threw ideas at each other over some of the U.S. Grant’s Centennial Manhattans. The beer has rye in the grain bill to tie to the rye in the cocktail. The beer is fairly balanced in regards to hops to let the unique characteristics of the barrel come forward. High in alcohol and robust, it’s finished with luxardo cherries that we smoked

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PAU L BOD Y

Brandon Hernández: How did the idea for this beer come about?

JEFF JOSENHANS: It was an evolution of beverage innovation going back to when I was charged with reinventing the hotel’s beverage program in 2009. One of our industry firsts was barrel-aging a Manhattan cocktail for 100 days at High West Distillery in Utah. It became a huge success. One day, it dawned on me to ask High West if they still had the barrels we used. They did and shipped them out to us. They are the only barrels in the world that were first seasoned with high quality American rye whiskey, then finished with Manhattan ingredients — rye, red vermouth and old-fashioned bitters. We considered funneling sauces or maple syrup in the barrels, but once I started studying for my Cicerone certification, a light bulb went off… beer!

with cigars in the Grant Grill kitchen.

How can people get a taste?

It will be available exclusively at Grant Grill in very limited quantities.

How else have you upped the Grant’s beer program?

Due to storage, we can’t get too extensive with our selection, but we do have what I believe to be, by far, the best beer selection you will find at any hotel in California… or maybe

even the country. We cover a wide range of styles and have chosen with a local-first mindset. That said, there are some heavyhitting classic brews that beer geeks will appreciate. And soon, we’ll be the first hotel in the country to serve cask ale.

In addition to Mission, what are some of your favorite local breweries?

The Lost Abbey, AleSmith and Stone, all for different reasons and styles but throughout their line-ups there are beers that are just solid.

Coming to a Head What’s new in brew or coming soon

Bolt Brewery Tasting Room

Though they’ve been in business only six months, the founders of Bolt Brewery (the reincarnation of the first San Diego County brewery to open post-Prohibition) are so bullish on their young (old) business that they’ve taken over the corner spot in Little Italy that formerly housed the North End Tavern. That space is being transformed into a kitchen-equipped satellite tasting room that will trade a club vibe for an everyman (and woman) atmosphere made extra appealing courtesy of outdoor seating right along India Street. 1971 India St., Little Italy, boltbrewery.com Kristi Hedin

< Thr3e Punk Ales Brewing Company

Let’s Go to the Hops May beer events

PA U L B O D Y

There are more than 100 breweries in San Diego, but this will be the county’s first brewery within a brewery. A trio of entrepreneurial brew buds has signed a one-year lease with the owner of Butcher’s Brewing that will allow them to use that company’s brewing equipment to produce a line of beers that figures to wide-ranging and outside the box. The owners plan on directing money they would have spent on brewing and cellaring apparatuses to marketing instead. 9962 Prospect Ave., Ste. E, Santee, 3punkales.com

American Craft Beer Week Yes, every week in San Diego is technically beer week, but for one enchanted seven-day span in the middle of May, the Brewers Association (the organization championing awareness of the U.S. craft brewing industry) declares open season on American-made craft ales and lagers, resulting in hundreds of spirited events across this great nation.

Not to be outdone, San Diego’s best beer bars, breweries and restaurants tend to go at this marathon kegger in a big way. May 11-17, Various Locations, Countywide, craftbeer.us

Chef Celebration Thirteen local chefs — from spots ranging from Table 10, Florent, and Leroy’s Kitchen and Lounge to Sublime Ale House, Small Bar and O’Brien’s Pub — will descend on the expansive gardens at Stone Brewing Co.’s Liberty Station to pair their creations with 13 beers, hand-picked by food-and-beer expert “Dr. Bill” Sysak. Proceeds from the event will help create scholarship opportunities for aspiring culinary school students. May 3, 12 p.m., Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty Station, Point Loma, stonelibertystation.com

Kings of the Craft Telling a story as epic as San Diego’s craft beer industry is no small task. In addition to time, energy and passion, it requires a significant chunk of change. The U.S. Grant’s upscale bar/ restaurant, Grant Grill, is helping to foot the bill for such a project by offering unlimited refills from its custom Spring Bloom Beer Punch Bowl and pouring 35 percent of proceeds from that all-you-can-drink libation to the producers of Kings of the Craft, a TV show about the SD beer scene debuting later this month on KPBS. May 25, 8 p.m., Grant Grill (at The U.S. Grant), Downtown, grantgrill.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 content to national and San Diego-based magazines including The Beer Connoisseur, Imbibe, Wine Enthusiast, The San Diego Reader and more. The first publication for which he ever wrote about beer was PacificSD. Follow him on Twitter: @sdbeernews and @offdutyfoodie.

MAY 2015 • PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM

107

SOUND DECISIONS

5.8 Channel

933 Summer

Kickoff @ Sleep Train Amphitheatre, livenation.com

R&B singer-songwriter Jason Derulo rose to fame in 2009 with his breakout hits “Whatcha Say” and “In My Head.” The title track from his 2013 album Talk Dirty became his biggest single to date — the song’s music video has more than 275 million views on YouTube. Prior to dropping his upcoming fourth studio album, Everything Is 4, in June, Derulo will join the likes of David Guetta, Pitbull, Meghan Trainor and other Top 40 stars at Channel 933’s annual concert event in Chula Vista. (cont. on page 110)

brian bo wen smit h

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g roove {sound decisions} (cont. from page 108)

Sounds Like a Plan may concert calendar

5.1 OK Go

By Catlin Dorset

5/1: Matt & Kim @ Observatory North Park, observatorynp.com A recent Acura commercial features this indie pop twosome’s song “Don’t Slow Down.”

5/2: The Moody Blues @ Pechanga Resort & Casino, pechanga.com Progressive rockers best known for their hits “Nights in White Satin” (1967) and “Your Wildest Dreams” (1986).

@ House of Blues, hob.com The film Hot Tub Time Machine 2 features this alt. rock band’s track “You’re a F*cking Nerd and No One Likes You.”

5/2: Kinky @ Observatory North Park, observatorynp.com TV shows Nip/Tuck, Gossip Girl and Weeds feature songs by these Latin rockers.

5/3: The Story So Far @ SOMA, somasandiego.com This punk rock fivesome will release its selftitled, third studio album on May 19.

5/3: They Might Be Giants @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Grammy Award-winning indie rockers responsible for the Malcolm in the Middle opening theme song, “Boss of Me.” 5/5: Korpiklaani @ Brick by Brick, ticketfly.com These folk metal Finns will release their new album, Noita, on the same day as this San Diego show.

Zen S e k i z awa

5/6: Young Jeezy @ AD Nightclub, adnightclub.com Kanye West, Jay Z and Ludacris are among the A-listers with whom this rhyme-spitter has collaborated.

E mily J o yce

5.8 DWIGHT

YOAKAM Observatory North Park, observatorynp.com This country singersongwriter and actor starred in the films Panic Room and Sling Blade.

5/6: Cartel @ UCSD’s Porter’s Pub, porterspub.com Pop punk band on its 10-year anniversary tour with Hit the Lights, Team and Driver Friendly.

5/7: G-Eazy @ FLUXX Nightclub, fluxxsd.com In 2013, this Oakland-bred rapper opened for Lil Wayne on the America’s Most Wanted tour.

5/8: Rodney Atkins @ Sycuan Casino, sycuan.com Country artist most known for hits “If You’re Going Through Hell (Before the Devil Even Knows)” (2006), “Watching You” (2006) and “These Are My People” (2007).

(cont. on page 112)

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g roove {sound decisions} (cont. from page 110)

5/8: Trace Adkins @ Harrah’s Resort SoCal, harrahsresortsocal.com In 2008, this country singer and guitarist finished as the runner-up on Season Seven of NBC’s The Celebrity Apprentice.

5/15: Boz Scaggs @ Pechanga Resort & Casino, pechanga.com R&B singer-songwriter Boz Scaggs and his wife, Dominique, own and operate the Napa-based Scaggs Vineyard.

5/9: The Bangles @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Pop rock ladies still riding the success of their ’80s singles “Walk Like an Egyptian” (1986), “Manic Monday” (1986) and “Eternal Flame” (1989).

5/15: Neil Diamond @ Valley View Casino Center, valleyviewcasinocenter.com In October, this Rock and Roll Hall of Famer performed “Something Blue,” a single from his new Melody Road album, on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

5/11: RITTZ @ Observatory North Park, observatorynp.com Georgian rapper Jonathan McCollum, aka RITTZ, is signed to Tech N9ne’s Strange Music label.

5/11: New Kids on the Block @ SDSU’s Viejas Arena, as.sdsu.edu Pop boy banders headlining The Main Event tour with TLC and Nelly.

5/12: The Piano Guys @ Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com These classical music instrumentalists garnered more than 23 million views on their YouTube video for “Cello Wars,” a spoof on the Star Wars film scores.

5/16: Chester See @ UCSD’s Porter’s Pub, porterspub.com This YouTube sensation has more than 11 million views of his “God Damn You’re Beautiful” video.

5/16: Noel Gallagher @ Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com English rocker touring worldwide in support of his recent album, Chasing Yesterday, which dropped in March.

5.14 Nipsey

5/13: The Wombats @ House of Blues, hob.com Indie rockers from across the pond.

Hussle

@ UCSD’s Porter’s Pub, porterspub.com Hip-hopper expected to release his first studio album, Victory Lap, in 2015.

5/14: Collie Buddz @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com This Bermudian reggae artist collaborated with Snoop on Reincarnated, D.O.Double-Gizzle’s 2013 album.

5.16 lana del rey Neil Krug

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@ Sleep Train Amphitheatre, livenation.com This pop rocker performed at the Kimye (aka Kim Kardashian and Kanye West) wedding ceremony in 2014. (cont. on page 114)

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g roove {sound decisions} (cont. from page 112)

5/22: Paramore @ SDSU’s Open Air Theatre, as.sdsu.edu In February, these alt. rockers picked up their first Grammy Award when “Ain’t It Fun” won Best Rock Song.

5/18: Little Dragon @ Observatory North Park, observatorynp.com TV shows Grey’s Anatomy, 90210 and Being Mary Jane have featured songs by this Swedish electronic foursome.

5/23: Wynonna @ USS Midway Museum, midway.org In 2013, this country star tried her hand at the cha-cha on Dancing with the Stars. She was the first celeb eliminated from the live competition.

5/20: Bryan Adams @ SDSU’s Open Air Theatre, as.sdsu.edu This rock music singer-songwriter and musician is also a photographer whose work has appeared in Esquire, Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar.

5/23: Train @ Sleep Train Amphitheatre, livenation.com Bay Area rockers best known for charttopping hits “Meet Virginia” (1999), “Calling All Angels” (2003) and “Hey, Soul Sister” (2009).

5/22: Lani Misalucha @ Pechanga Resort & Casino, pechanga.com In 2014, Filipino pop rocker Lani Misalucha released her eighth studio album, The Nightingale Returns.

5/23: Baby Bash @ UCSD’s Porter’s Pub, porterspub.com T-Pain collaborated with this hiphopper on the 2007 track “Cyclone.”

Jane Rantall

5/17: Passion Pit @ Observatory North Park, observatorynp.com Rolling Stone magazine named this pop band’s hit “Take a Walk” the third best song of 2012.

5.28 Xavier Rudd

@ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com Indie folk artist on the road in support of his recent album, Nanna, which dropped in March.

5/24: The Rolling Stones @ Petco Park, padres.com The iconic classic rockers kick off their Zip Code tour in America’s Finest ballpark.

5/29: Donavon Frankenreiter @ Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com This soft rock musician and surfer is a close friend of Jack Johnson.

5/28: Neutral Milk Hotel @ Observatory North Park, observatorynp.com In a Season Three episode of Parks and Recreation, a character named April (portrayed by Aubrey Plaza) says this indie rock group is her favorite band.

5/29: Creedence Clearwater Revisited @ Pala Casino, palacasino.com The Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute band kicks off a North American tour with this show in Pala.

5/28: Saxon @ Brick by Brick, ticketfly.com Heavy metal fivesome out of England.

5.22-24 r. kelly

@ San Diego Jazz Festival, sandiegojazzfest.com This R&B artist wrote Michael Jackson’s last Number One hit, “You Are Not Alone.”

g roove {sound decisions}

Take a Spin Upcoming EDM and DJ performances

By Catlin Dorset

5/8: NERVO @ OMNIA San Diego, omnianightclub.com Twins Miriam and Olivia Nervo comprise this dance pop duo.

5/8: A-Trak @ Parq Nightclub, parqsd.com On June 7, this Canadian electro house turntablist will play the closing night of the Governors Ball NYC Music Festival, shortly before The Black Keys, Lana Del Rey and Weird Al Yankovic take the stage.

5/9: 3LAU @ OMNIA San Diego, omnianightclub.com In January, this progressive house remixer released his single, “The Night,” featuring Estelle.

5/9: Firebeatz @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Martin Garrix, Sander van Doorn and Calvin Harris are among the big names with whom this Dutch electro house duo has collaborated.

5/15: TJR @ FLUXX Nightclub, fluxxsd.com In 2014, this EDMer made his debut on DJ Mag’s “Top 100 DJs” list, coming in at No. 80.

5/21: Armin van Buuren @ OMNIA San Diego, omnianightclub.com At the 2014 Grammy Awards, this trance DJ’s smash hit “This is What it Feels Like” was nominated in the Best Dance Recording category.

5/22: Grandtheft @ FLUXX Nightclub, fluxxsd.com In 2012, Diplo teamed up with this electro beatmaker to remix Calvin Harris’ “Sweet Nothing,” featuring Florence Welch.

5/22: Borgeous @ OMNIA San Diego, omnianightclub.com House music producer most known for his 2013 collaboration with DVBBS on the single “Tsunami.”

5/22-23: My Life Every Day USA @ Valley View Casino Center, mylifeeveryday.com To-be-announced EDMers will keep the party rocking in Point Loma this Memorial Day weekend.

5/23: Nicole Moudaber @ Bang Bang, bangbangsd. com Techno house DJ from Nigeria.

5.3 Pendulum @ Bassmnt, bassmntsd.com Electronic rockers who’ve remixed tracks by Calvin Harris, Metallica and Led Zeppelin, among others.

5/29: Tiësto @ OMNIA San Diego, omnianightclub.com Tijs Michiel Verwest, aka Tiësto, won the golden gramophone at this year’s Grammy Awards for his remix of John Legend’s “All of Me.” 5/30: The Chainsmokers @ OMNIA San Diego, omnianightclub.com In 2014, this electro house twosome enjoyed major success with their hit “#Selfie.”

5.2 chuckie ruud boan

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@ OMNIA San Diego, omnianightclub.com This electro house DJ has remixed tracks for Deadmau5, Diddy and David Guetta.

g roove {BARTENDER}

A SHOT AT SUCCESS

A local bartender says cheers! to her musical career

By Megan Looney

S

an Diego-born songstress Leanna Patterson has long, turquoise hair that matches her eyes, and a unique thrift-store style that complements her whiskey-tainted tunes. She and Puck, her husband-slash-band-mate, are The Whiskey Circle, a local indie rock duo whose moniker references a favorite household ritual.

“My entire family plays music,” says Patterson. “We sit in a misshapen circle, and there’s whiskey in the middle. Whenever we feel like we’re getting a little rough with the singing, we just take a shot.”

The 25-year-old singer-songwriter, guitarist and aspiring producer also blends music and whiskey at her other gig — bartending at The Merrow (Gaelic for “mermaid” or “merman”), a Hillcrest bar that hosts up-and-coming artists nearly every night of the week. It’s where The Whiskey Circle, which performs

THE MERROW 1271 University Ave., Hillcrest 619.299.7372, themerrow.com

paul bo dy

katy jo hns o n

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regularly at House of Blues, The Casbah and Soda Bar, can be found taking the stage on Monday’s open mic nights. To help make sure The Whiskey Circle and her professional musical future resonate with listeners, Patterson studies music engineering at Miramar College.

“I’m going to school because I want things to be my way,” she says. “I could explain it [to a producer] ’til I’m blue in the face, but I don’t feel like it will ever be communicated the right way unless I just do it myself.”And with that, this musicianon-the-rise is giving her career a shot in more ways than one.

Facebook.com/TheWhiskeyCircle, thewhiskeycircle.wordpress.com.

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love {blind date}

e s i d a r a P TREBLE IN

A Finest City first encounter, set to music photos by john mireles

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lannah and Cameron met for the first time about 30 minutes ago. At the moment, they’re cruising south on Interstate 15 in an Epic Limo headed to The Rabbit Hole in Normal Heights, the first stop on tonight’s live music blind date tour. Before they arrive, let’s review the predate interviews.

What do you do for fun?

ALANNAH: I draw and I am currently getting my art going. I love the outdoors and hike a lot, read, play piano.

CAMERON: I’m fortunate to have fun at work everyday, but when I’m not at the shop I surf; cook; garden; play with my pup, Dylan; hang at my mom’s shop, Geographie, also in North Park; and just generally enjoy San Diego.

PacificSD: What do you do for a living?

ALANNAH: I save the world, one claim at a time. Just kidding — I am a reimbursement specialist for four oncology labs in the U.S. I do billing for cancer laboratories.

CAMERON: A friend and I recently opened Nomad Donuts in North Park, so I hold down the fort there.

What are you best at?

ALANNAH: Reading people, analyzing problems and figuring out solutions.

CAMERON: Snacks.

PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM • MAY 2015

What do you suck at?

ALANNAH: I don’t suck at anything.

CAMERON: Karaoke. Seriously, I’m really bad. Not in a cute way, either. Just plain ol’ bad.

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

ALANNAH: Someone that is fit, witty, funny.

Same type of humor is a must, good job, has lots of interests.

CAMERON: Freckles are real cute. Humor and a sense of self are pretty important. Being a babe doesn’t hurt, either.

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

ALANNAH: Hipster.

CAMERON: Optimistic surfer with cute dog.

What do you like least about yourself?

ALANNAH: How short I am — I’m five-two.

CAMERON: I could be more organized. I ain’t so great at the guitar, either. (cont. on page 122)

love {blind date} (cont. from page 120)

CAMERON: Ignorance, pessimism, impolite or illmannered, racism, homophobic, unhealthy, disinterested.

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

ALANNAH: Funny and confident.

CAMERON: Cute and interesting.

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

ALANNAH: Ten, obviously.

I don’t know; that’s weird. I’m confident but don’t want to rate myself.

CAMERON: Strong six-pointeight.

How about for personality.

ALANNAH: Personality, I would say, is a nine.

CAMERON: Uhhh… ten. I’m pretty stoked all the time!

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What’s your biggest fear?

ALANNAH: Mosquitoes.

CAMERON: That we humans don’t get our act together in regards to how we treat the earth and each other.

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

ALANNAH: Cocky, chews with their mouth open, doesn’t know how to carry conversation.

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

ALANNAH: I won’t kiss on the first date. Sorry, but you have to wait.

CAMERON: I don’t know if that’s my call to make… yet.

What’s the most important thing in the world?

ALANNAH: I am going to do a combo and say God and people.

I would say connecting with our creator, people, being present and helping others are the most important. We are all here on earth together.

CAMERON: Balance. And donuts.

As they arrive at The Rabbit Hole just before sunset, the blind daters head to a booth on the stage, where guitarist Jimmy Lewis is playing classic and alt. rock hits to a nearcapacity crowd. They order drinks and appetizers and appear to be getting along well, talking a lot and laughing when the bar manager sends a round of shots to the table.

THANK YOU! THE RABBIT HOLE 3377 Adams Ave., Normal Heights 619.255.4653, rabbitholesd.com (cont. on page 124)

love {blind date} (cont. from page 122

ALL

jazz THAT

Sultry song and a savory spread

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fter rockin’ in The Rabbit Hole for about an hour, Alannah and Cameron jump back into the limo for the ride to dinner at Heat Bar & Kitchen in Hillcrest. Inside, a lounge singer crooning in French and accompanied by an accordion player sets the tone for a scene that is decidedly European — quaint, cozy, modern.

The couple orders drinks while looking over the menu. Their

banter and smiles continue as their entrées arrive, and they still appear to be getting along well. One sign they may not be completely in tune with one another comes when Alannah orders coffee with her dessert, while Cameron keeps his rhythm going with a shot of Grand Marnier.

Before leaving Heat to see the evening’s headlining act perform at Observatory North Park, the couple is split for mid-date debriefings.

PacificSD: How’s it going so far?

ALANNAH: Great.

It’s been good. Good conversation, relaxed, fun.

CAMERON: Awesome, we’re having a lot of fun.

Finding a lot of common interests and just, I don’t know, she’s super easy to hang out with.

What were your first impressions?

ALANNAH: They’re actually good. He seems like a gentleman ’cause he got me flowers, so that was very sweet. Just very nice, a gentleman; he seems like a good guy.

CAMERON: I met her at the door, and, obviously, she’s beautiful. Yeah, she’s a looker.

We kind of started chatting right away. It was comfortable.

She’s super easy to talk to.

How was The Rabbit Hole?

ALANNAH: It was great. It was fun. They had great music, great drinks.

CAMERON: It’s cool. I know The Rabbit Hole. It was nice to start off there, because that’s my part of town, and I know a lot of people that work there. I knew it was gonna be a lot of fun, and there was gonna be good drinks, good food.

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

ALANNAH: Getting to know him, personality-wise, yes.

Like, initially seeing him… not necessarily, no.

CAMERON: We get along super well, so it would make total sense.

What did you have to eat and drink there?

ALANNAH: I got an Old Fashioned, which was very delicious, and then we got nachos with lobster on them.

Highly recommend, amazing.

CAMERON: We had lobster nachos, which were awesome, and then she had a whiskey drink, and I had a Paloma. What I like about their drinks is none of them are over sweet or over sour; they’re very well balanced.

They’re super easy to drink, which can catch up to you.

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

ALANNAH: Very fashionable.

Yeah, he’s in style for right now; looks good.

CAMERON: Very classy, nice.

I almost felt underdressed.

(cont. on page 126)

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love {blind date} (cont. from page 124)

How was dinner at Heat Bar & Kitchen?

ALANNAH: Amazing live music, amazing food. The service was amazing; the waiter was extremely helpful. I loved it. So good.

CAMERON: Awesome. I had been here before. I was just talking to our server, asking when they’ll have live music again, ’cause I’ll definitely be back for that. The food is really good; the drinks are really good.

What did you have to eat and drink there?

ALANNAH: I got the lamb shank — so good. The meat was falling off the bone, which is how it’s supposed to be. And then I had a whiskey drink with lemon... it was amazing.

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CAMERON: I got a short rib flatbread, and it was amazing. I asked them to box it up so I can take it home with me.

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

ALANNAH: He’s been a gentleman, pulling out my chair, making sure I’m accommodated and comfortable, asking what I want to eat, what I want to drink, just basically looking out for me, so that’s very nice.

CAMERON: She’s just super easy to talk to. That’s something that I’m attracted to, not just in women, but in people in general.

We’re having fun. It’s not forced or something.

What would your parents say if you brought your date home?

ALANNAH: They would think he’s a gentleman. I don’t know; they’d probably like him.

CAMERON: They would approve. If she would talk to them in the same way that we’re talking, which is just very natural and casual, they would adore her.

“I’m gonna be a gentleman and I’m gonna hold back.” She looks very smoochable.

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

ALANNAH: Seven.

CAMERON: Eight.

Anything else you want to say?

ALANNAH: No, just been having fun. Good time.

CAMERON: I needed a night like this. It’s worked out really well and it’s not over yet. There’s still more fun to be had.

How about for personality?

ALANNAH: Eight.

CAMERON: Ten. She’s cool.

Do you want to kiss your date now?

ALANNAH: No. CAMERON: There have been moments where I’m just like,

Does your date want to kiss you?

ALANNAH: I don’t know.

CAMERON: Oh, I don’t know.

That’s up to her.

THANK YOU! HEAT BAR & KITCHEN 3797 Park Blvd., Hillcrest 619.546.4328, heatbarandkitchen.com (cont. on page 128)

S S i K

love {blind date} (cont. from page 126)

And we’re not talking about the band…

A

fter dinner at Heat Bar & Kitchen, Alannah and Cameron head to Observatory North Park, where British musician/ DJ/producer Bonobo is about to take the stage.

When they arrive at the venue, the couple is ushered through a VIP entrance at West Coast Tavern, up to a private balcony overlooking throngs of Bonobo fans. As they watch the show, the magazine crew finally leaves the daters alone to enjoy the rest of their evening away from the camera. The next morning, we call to see what we missed.

PacificSD: How was the concert at Observatory North Park?

ALANNAH: Everything there was great; super cool place to be at. The venue is the perfect size to see a band up close. The balcony view of the show was amazing, and the bar in the first room was perfect to have drinks to take a break from the music.

CAMERON: It was packed for the show, but the bartenders were on it, and drinks were received in a timely fashion. We watched the show from the balcony, which was amazing. All in all, it was pretty rad.

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Describe the Epic Limo experience.

ALANNAH: The limo was awesome. Juan was so nice, and the limo was fully stocked. I could get used to one of those.

CAMERON: Juan is the man — smooth sailing with that guy at the helm. And there was a ton of booze, which was a nice touch.

Was there a kiss or romantic exchange?

ALANNAH: He tried going for a kiss. He was a bold one. Was not prepared for that. Kindly did not want one.

CAMERON: I may have snuck a wee awkward smooch in there.

A man’s gotta try. It didn’t feel quite right, so we kept it friendly after that.

How and when did the date end?

ALANNAH: After the concert, we both just headed home and exchanged a hug.

CAMERON: It ended with hugs, laughs and both of us in our respective sleeping quarters.

Where did you go and what did you do after the show?

ALANNAH: Just went home. I had a pretty early morning the next day.

CAMERON: We were both pretty spent after the show, so we called it a night.

What was the best part of the date?

ALANNAH: Best part was the food at Heat Bar & Kitchen; the lamb just fell off the bone. Also seeing Bonobo at the Observatory.

I have been a fan for a while, so that was a great experience.

CAMERON: I love The Rabbit Hole. Strong drinks, tasty grub and good people. The food at Heat was so good. Bonobo at the Observatory was insane.

When did you get home?

ALANNAH: At 12:30 a.m., which was perfect for me.

CAMERON: At 1:15 in the a.m.

It was a rough one the following morning.

What was the worst part of the date?

ALANNAH: Awkward when he went for the kiss. But other than that, everything was great.

CAMERON: I had been up

PACIFICSANDIEGO.coM • MAY 2015

since four in the morning — donut life — so I was pretty tired. Other than that, everything was peachy keen.

Will there be a second date?

ALANNAH: No, not my type of guy, but he is easy to talk to. I

always enjoy making new friends and hanging out with new people.

CAMERON: I’d be down to grab drinks and hang sometime. I don’t think there’s really any romantic interest there, but, hey, I made a friend.

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

ALANNAH: Nothing. He was fun and easygoing… probably would just say feel it out more before kissing someone.

CAMERON: I don’t know.

Honestly, she was super nice, and we had a lot of fun.

AFTERMATCH: Cameron is used to being hands-on and touching hot stuff in the kitchen, but, when going in for this kiss from Alannah, he got the official

“Donut Touch!” (Insert “donut hole” joke here.) While these two blind daters probably won’t make sweet music together in the future, at least they go to feel the Heat and rock like rabbits for one big night on the town. He’s a surfer, she’s a hipster, and the beat goes on…

THANK YOU! OBSERVATORY NORTH PARK 2891 University Ave., North Park 619.239.8836, observatorynp.com EPIC LIMO 858.270.LIMO (5466) epiclimo.com

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