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September April 2021 | VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9 4

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September-October, 2021 | VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9

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VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9 | September-October, 2021

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MCASD TO CELEBRATE RENOWNED CHICANA ARTIST WITH EXHIBITION AT NEWLY REOPENED DOWNTOWN LOCATION First Solo Museum Show for Yólanda Lopez, San Diego-born Feminist, Activist, Artist

After several Covid-related delays and closures, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego will celebrate the reopening of the Jacobs Building downtown with Yolanda López: Portrait of the Artist. This will be the first solo exhibition in a museum for Yolanda López (1942-2021), the path breaking artist, activist, and educator whose career in California spanned five decades. López, who passed away in early September, was celebrated for her role in the Chicano art movement and for her iconic Guadalupe series.

MCASD had planned to present Yolanda López: Portrait of the Artist in fall of 2020 at its downtown San Diego location and instead pivoted to online programming. López’s much-anticipated exhibition will open to the public on October 16 with a community celebration of the artist’s life and work. All are welcome to experience the exhibition and join in celebrating López’s legacy with a reception on MCASD’s Figi Family Concourse from 4-7PM. The exhibition will fill the large Farrell Gallery of MCASD’s downtown location, which opened in 2007 in the former baggage terminal of the historic Santa Fe Depot.

Born and raised in the Barrio Logan neighborhood of San Diego, López spent the 1960s in San Francisco and was based there permanently from the late 1970s on. The artist traced her formation to the student activism of that era and to her prominent role as a cultural worker within the Chicano civil rights movement.

Yolanda López: Portrait of the Artist presents a compendium of López’s work from the 1970s and 1980s, when she created an influential body of paintings, drawings, and collages that investigate and reimagine representations of women within Chicano/a/x culture. In The New York Times’s recent Fall Preview, Holland Cotter calls the exhibition “A long overdue career tribute,” noting that López’s “1978 self-portrait painting as a marathon-running Virgin of Guadalupe is one of the great images of revolutionary joy.”

“López leaves behind a profound legacy and it is a special honor, here in the artist’s hometown, to present the first solo museum exhibition of this lauded figure in the worlds of art and activism,” explained Kathryn Kanjo, the David C. Copley Director and CEO of MCASD. “Many of López’s commanding drawings received essential conservation treatments, allowing, at last, for the public display of these formative artworks. The outsize portraits of the artist, her mother, and her grandmother will be a revelation for many visitors.”

Yolanda López: Portrait of the Artist concentrates on a transformative period in López’s production beginning in 1975, when the artist entered graduate school at the University of California, San Diego, and continuing into the 1980s, when she created the final works in her iconic Guadalupe series. The exhibition brings together approximately fifty works in oil pastel, paint, charcoal, collage, and photography, including never-before-exhibited large-scale self-portraits.

In her best-known work, Portrait of the Artist as the Virgin of Guadalupe (1978), López depicts herself wearing running shoes and Guadalupe’s star-patterned mantle, embodying a defiant joy. One of the most iconic artworks to emerge from the Chicano movement, López’s anthemic Portrait challenges the colonial and patriarchal origins of the Guadalupe iconography, transforming the image into one of radical feminist optimism.

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Hours: Thursday - Sunday, 10 am - 4 pm Media preview: Friday, October 15, 10 - 11:30 am Exhibition Opens to the public: Saturday, October 16, 10 am. https://www.mcasd.org/exhibitions/yolanda-l%C3%B3pez-portrait-artist Community Celebration: Saturday, October 16, 4 - 7 pm https://www.mcasd.org/events/community-celebration-yolanda-l%C3%B3pez

Portrait of the Artist as Virgin of Guadalupe

Curator Jill Dawsey said, “López’s Guadalupe series represents one of the earliest feminist reinterpretations of the Virgin of Guadalupe, which, in the following decades, became a major focus of Chicanx art and literature—owing much to the influence and prevalence of López’s work.”

Also on view will be two exhibitions of works from the Museum’s collection, including The Shape, the Scent, the Feel of Things, a five-channel video installation by Joan Jonas (United States, born 1936), and Abstract Vocabularies: Selections from the Collection.

The community celebration of Yolanda López on Saturday, October 16, will feature food and beverage provided by Mujeres Brew House and live music by Bambula, a South Bay music collective “dedicated to homage and tribute through the liberating ways of music.” Remarks

by Museum and community representatives will begin at 5 PM. This celebration is presented in association with Centro Cultural de la Raza. Masks will be required indoors and will be highly recommended outdoors.

Yolanda López: Portrait of the Artist is organized

by MCASD Curator Jill Dawsey, PhD and made possible with support from California Humanities, a non-profit partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Institutional Support of MCASD is provided by the City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture and the County of San Diego Community Enhancement Fund.

This exhibition is part of the Feminist Art Coalition, a national platform for art projects that seek to generate cultural awareness of feminist thought, experience, and action.

A catalogue for the exhibition will be available, featuring contributions by Jill Dawsey and Irene Lara, Associate Professor of Women’s Studies at San Diego State University and a reprinting of Yolanda López’s 1978 “Artist’s Statement.” Published by the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego. Price $20. 12# pages.

5.5 x 8 inches. ISBN: 9780934418751 The exhibition runs October 16, 2021 – April 24, 2022 1100 Kettner Blvd. San Diego, 92101 Admission: Free /LocalUmbrellaMedia

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ABOUT YOLANDA LÓPEZ Yolanda López (United States, 1942-2021) was born and raised in the Logan Heights neighborhood of San Diego and in 1961 moved to San Francisco. In the late 1960s, López became part of the San Francisco State University Third World Strike and was a founding member of the defense committee for Los Siete de la Raza (Seven of the People). López served as the artist for the newspaper ¡Basta Ya! and created graphic artworks that were instrumental in publicizing the case of Los Siete, a group of seven young Central American men accused and later acquitted in the murder trial of a police officer.

López was an established artist and organizer when she returned to San Diego in the 1970s, completing a BFA at San Diego State University and an MFA at the University of California, San Diego. In San Diego, López worked with the Chicano Federation and the Committee on Chicano Rights. She later played a significant role in the San Francisco Bay Area working as educational director for the Mission District Cultural Center, and as an instructor at the University of California, Berkeley, Mills College, the California College of the Arts, and other Bay Area colleges for several decades. A monograph on the artist was published through the UCLA Chicano Studies Research Center Press in 2008.

López is a recipient of the National Women’s Caucus for Art Lifetime Achievement Award (2008) and a 2021 Latinx Artist Fellowship from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.

For interviews, contact Toni Robin, 858.483.3918 or tr@trprsandiego.com Approved images and captions here. https:// www.dropbox.com/sh/jclkyagog8g4umy/AAC6mqV_gjALBcn1gT0gFFNBa?dl=0 MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART SAN DIEGO (MCASD) Founded in 1941, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) is the preeminent contemporary visual arts institution in San Diego County. The Museum’s collection includes more than 5,000 works of art created since 1950. In addition to presenting exhibitions by international contemporary artists, the Museum serves thousands of children and adults annually at its varied education programs, and offers a rich program of film, performance, and lectures. MCASD is a private, nonprofit organization, with 501c3 tax-exempt status; it is supported by generous contributions and grants from MCASD Members and other individuals, corporations, foundations, and government agencies. Kathryn Kanjo is The David C. Copley Director and CEO at MCASD. Institutional support for MCASD is provided by the City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture. http:// www.mcasd.org MCASD Downtown > Jacobs Building 1100 Kettner Boulevard (between Broadway and B Street) San Diego, CA 92101 858 454 3541 ADVERTISE | Press@LocalUmbrella.com

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September-October, 2021 | VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9

A COOL CAT – JAZZY EVENT AT LEGACY RESORT HOTEL AND SPA

By Rebecca Jefferis Williamson

A cool cat jazz performance, held at the Legacy Resort Hotel Resort & Spa, on Sept. 12, titled “The Speakeasy,” was reminiscent of a rocking New Orleans club, a prohibition-era hidden club, or a New York City jazz club from the 1960’s.

Myron McKinley Legacy Concert Series – The Speakeasy rocked the joint. But this “joint” is no dive. It’s the hotel and spa that reopened, closed previously due to the covid19 pandemic, to performances in their 500-seat performance theatre.

The Myron McKinley Trio, comprised of Myron McKiney on piano, Ian Martin on bass, and Stacey Lamont Sydnor on drums, introduced other musicians and performers throughout the night.

The band expanded to include Tony Pulizzi on guitar and Gary Bias on saxophone during various numbers.

“This is the first public concert in the theatre,” said co-producer Paul Berezetsky with Concerts.

Cafe. “We wanted to build a vehicle for artists to have stadium revenue.”

From Left to Right: Walfredo de los Reyes Jr (Drummer for Chicago) Mary Ann Daughtry (Singer/Songwriter) Josquin Des Pres (Producer/ Songwriter) Florentino Buenaventura (Concerts.Cafe CEO) and Steve Marciano (The Legacy Resort General Manager). Farima @ FT

What did renowned jazz bassist Bunny Bunny think of the Speakeasy event? “What a beautiful venue and the music was top notch. I really enjoyed the show.”

The concert was also the first in

a planned series of more concerts to come.

“I love the idea of a music series that puts a spotlight on really talented musicians and performers.

The show was incredible and such an amazing experience. I’m looking forward to the next one,” said Kaylene Peoples, an international recording artist and magazine publisher.

Under the musical direction of Earth Wind and Fire keyboardist, Myron McKinley, the show featured contemporary songs that were arranged and performed in the style of the roaring 20’s jazz era.

The all-star lineup included vocalists Sy Smith, Rebecca Jade, and Adam Aejaye Jackson. Dancer Sonya Enchill Om performed a solo piece as well.

Many locals may know Rebecca Jade from her San Diego Music Awards’ award-winning song, featuring Jason Mraz, titled “Bad Wolves.” photographer: Brian Ross

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What were some reactions to the performances?

“I was absolutely stunned by the incredible passion and technical skills of the musicians. Even though their playing together was flawless, each time a musician had a solo, I felt I was in the presence of genius!” said attendee and San Diego County resident Sylvia Hom. “At times, Myron’s hands were moving so fast, they were a blur.”

“It was a spectacular performance,” said Encinitas resident Jeff Nelson.

More responses from attendees: “It was a wonderful show start to finish. The singers and song selection were great, with the band in top notch form!” said Bart Mendoza. “Band leader and keyboardist Myron McKinley was amazing, but it was drummer Stacey Lamont Sydnor that really dazzled the crowd. Both showed a quick wit--the humor really adding to the feel of the night. Several standing ovations showed how enthusiastic the audience was for the night’s performances. The venue itself is worth noting, with wonderful sound and sightlines. A great night out.”

And the reviews kept coming: "Myron McKinley’s concert was amazing! An evening of high quality “live music” featuring virtuoso vocalists and instrumentalists in a theatre that compliments the art of sounds,” said drummer for the band Chicago’s Walfredo De Los Reyes Jr. Producers were Myron McKinley, Paul Berezetsky, and Florentino Buenaventura for Concerts.

Cafe.

Sponsored by Local Umbrella Media.

“We’re looking at November for our next Legacy Series,” said Berezetsky.

Visit: https://concerts.cafe or www.concerts.cafe for information on future events or to watch streaming of this and other concerts.

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VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9 | September-October, 2021

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30TH ANNUAL SAN DIEGO MUSIC AWARDS / LOCAL MUSIC’S BIGGEST NIGHT! The 30th Annual San Diego Music Awards took place on August 24 before a full house under the stars at Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay. The show was once again held before a live audience after going digital in 2020, with nineteen awards handed out, as well as two Lifetime Achievement trophies, one to guitarist Jerry Raney (The Farmers) and an Industry Award given to Liz Abbott of the

San Diego Troubadour. Returning to the beautiful waterfront setting of Humphrey’s, the SDMA’s lived up to their reputation as the local music scene’s biggest party of the year, with a celebratory crowd cheering on a live soundtrack provided by nominees Electric Mud, Marujah, The Farmers, Brisa Lauren, Cindy Lee Berryhill with Joyce Rooks and Renata Bratt, Ed Kornhauser and Chick-

en Bone Slim. Funds raised by the awards show go to the San Diego Music Foundation’s Guitars for Schools Program, bringing music education back to the area’s kids and giving attendees, through their ticket purchases and donations, the opportunity to do a good deed while taking in some of the best music San Diego has to offer. Plans are already underway for next year’s edition.

Music Scene SD editor Bart Mendoza, photo- San Diego Music Awards founder Kevin “Best R&B, Funk or Soul Album” nominee “Best Blues Album” nominee Chickenbone bombed at sound check by “Best World Music Hellman Brisa Lauren Slim Album” nominees, Marujah

One of the evening’s performers, “Best R&B, Funk or Soul Preshow with Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Jer- Rock / Powerpop legends Barry Scott and Bob Monroe of the Album” nominee Brisa Lauren, with Kendrick Dial (Lyrical ry Raney (The Beat Farmers / Glory) and “Best Pop Album” Monroes celebrate their nomination for the “Best Video,” “Rosemary’s Daughter.”

Groove) and friends nominee Audrey Callahan

“Best Americana or Country Album” winners Coral Bells

Marc Hansen of Electric Mud acBest Jazz Album winner, pianist Ed Kornhauser and band, including bass- knowledges the crowd after winning for “Best Rock Album” ist McKenzie Leighton

Radio / Broadcast legend Jim McInnes presents the Lifetime “Best Americana, Blues or Jazz Song” nominee Cindy Lee Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Jerry Raney and his Achievement Award to Jerry Raney Berryhill sings with Joyce Rooks and Renata Bratt band The Farmers perform. Bassist Chris Sullivan (ex-The Penetrators) in the center, singer Corbin Turner on the right

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September-October, 2021 | VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9

“HEALING THE HEROES OF 9-11” WITH MICHAEL GIER

By: Molly Galliher

Gier Productions in conjunction with the non-profit 22Zero recently honored the twentieth anniversary of 9/11 with the release of their documentary “Healing the Heroes of 9-11”. Detailing a life-saving PTSD treatment option, the film follows a group of five 9/11 first responders through their therapeutic process. With the success of his documentary “Wounded Heroes,” award-winning filmmaker and San Diego native Michael Gier is continuing to make an impact in the sphere of mental health awareness. This will be Gier’s second film dealing with alternative therapy for PTSD. In light of recent worldwide events, “Healing the Heroes of 9-11” finds itself incredibly relevant today. Mental health is a serious issue that is often overlooked.

This documentary illustrates the importance of treating the underlying causes of mental health conditions instead of solely focusing on treating the symptoms the conditions produce. Through his films, Gier is making an impact and serving an often invisible community. “Healing the Heroes of 9-11” is free to watch online at 22zero.org, on YouTube, and on Vimeo.

Q: Can you tell us about your start in filmmaking and about your company, Gier Productions?

A: My background is in entertainment. I made a living on stage in Los Angeles as a performer and starred in Broadway shows all across the country. I did that for most of my adult life. I got hired to work on a show in Los Angeles and from there decided to start working on television and film, something I still do. This got me interested in what was happening on the other side of the camera. I didn’t know much about production but I applied myself, bought some books, and taught myself about production. I started small and founded Gier Productions in 2009. From there, we continued to grow and now, we’ve produced hundreds of TV commercials, corporate videos, non-profit videos, short films, feature films, and even award-winning documentaries.

Q: What got you interested in documentary filmmaking?

A: I actually wasn’t planning on doing a documentary, it kind of happened accidentally. We were making a feature film with a storyline involving post-traumatic stress. I didn’t know much about PTSD so I started doing research, interviewing military professionals and veterans to learn more about it. I met this man named Carl who was battling PTSD and, at the time, was on sixteen different medications. He described the medications as a type of bandaid that just pushed back some of the symptoms without treating the underlying causes. He was only in his twenties and I couldn’t believe his condition. After that interview, I decided I wanted to produce my first documentary. I wanted to find out if there was anything else out there that could help these people truly heal instead of just prescribing them medication. That question ended up becoming the focus of my documentary “Wounded Heroes” which details different treatment programs for those dealing with PTSD. Q: Can you talk about your new film, “Healing the Heroes of 9-11”?

A: “Healing the Heroes of 9-11” features five 9/11 first responders, four from New York and one from the Pentagon. They talk about what they experienced and the trauma they went through.

From there, we talk about how that trauma has affected them for the past twenty years. One of the subjects hadn’t been able to get within two blocks of the site for the past two decades. We wanted to talk about their struggles due to their experiences and then detail their reactions to a therapeutic process called Trauma Resiliency Protocol or “TRP” which allows individuals to separate their emotions from a memory.

This helps relieve the trauma surrounding the event. All five of our subjects had life-changing improvements after going through TRP therapy. One subject improved so much that he was able to visit the memorial site during our filming. It’s really incredible.

This process has been life-chang-

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ing for them and is something we want to bring awareness to.

Q: What is TRP? A: TRP is a neurological intervention that separates memories from the emotions associated with them. This is done by building mental resiliency through training without directly referencing the specific traumatic events that are the cause of symptoms.

Q: How did you connect with the subjects involved in the film?

A: This film is being brought to the public by a non-profit organization called 22Zero. The founder of that organization and a veteran himself, Dan Jarvis, was featured in my other documentary “Wounded Heroes” and called me with an idea. He asked if I was willing to direct and produce a documentary about TRP, the therapeutic process that they created.

This film is 22Zero’s baby.

Q: How can people watch “Healing the Heroes of 9-11”?

A: The film was released on 9/11, the twentieth anniversary of the attacks. People can watch the film for free online on YouTube, Vimeo, and 22zero.org. There will also be zoom screenings and theater showings across the US. It’s important that people share these films so they can get to the people that need to see them.

Q: Was there a specific moment that stood out to you while making this film?

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A: Hearing their stories, to be able to watch these veterans and first responders that had given up get their lives back was incredible.

At one point, one of the subjects told us that he “feels like a soldier again” and that really struck me.

He had lost that and now is back to being himself after so long.

Watching how their lives have drastically improved without any medication was so powerful.

Q: What is your favorite part about your job?

A: I try to produce projects that impact people in a positive way, no matter what I do. The thing I love the most is having the opportunity to work on projects that get to change people’s lives. With “Wounded Heroes” and “Healing the Heroes of 9-11” especially, we are literally saving some people’s lives. That is so rewarding.

Q: Do you have any advice for others looking to get into documentary filmmaking?

A: Filmmaking is storytelling.

Do something that is going to be impactful. If you are going to spend all that time and effort producing a film, whether a short or a feature, do something that also has a message. That doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice entertainment, it is just something that makes your film that much more important.

Learn more at www.22zero.org or www.gierproductions.com

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VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9 | September-October, 2021

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ROCK GUITAR HERO DON FELDER FIRES UP SERVING SENIORS 50TH ANNIVERSARY GALA OCTOBER

Serving Seniors will kick off its second half century of service to San Diego’s low-income and homeless seniors in style with a celebratory concert featuring Rock and Roll Hall of Fame guitar legend Don Felder.

The concert highlights the organization’s 50th Anniversary ‘Sunshine Gala,’ which takes place on Saturday, October 2, at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina.

Both Serving Seniors and Felder are emerging into the sunshine after their plans were drastically changed by the coronavirus pandemic with more reasons to celebrate than ever before, Felder, formerly of The Eagles, with a legacy as one of the most innovative riff-generating songwriters of the modern rock era, released his first new solo album in seven years in April 2019. Titled American Rock ’N’ Roll, it showcases Felder’s versatile artistic talents, consisting of 11 high-energy rockers mixed with touching, thoughtful ballads.

However, like the rest of the world, Felder’s plans for touring were put on hold.

Likewise, as Serving Seniors looked forward to celebrating its 50th year of service in 2020, those plans were put on hold. Instead, virtually overnight Serving Seniors rapidly responded to the urgent health and nutritional needs of San Diego County’s low-income seniors impacted by COVID-19, creating a new program from scratch to provide a record breaking 1.7 million meals home-delivered and to-go meals for its clients during the pandemic year, and 2.1 million meals total during the 481 days the Serving Seniors Gary and Mary West Wellness Center dining room was closed.

Serving Seniors’ President and CEO Paul Downey celebrated 25 years with the organization in 2020.

Since being appointed the role in 1995, Downey has guided the nonprofit’s innovative efforts, making Serving Seniors a national model for compassionate and life changing care for seniors in need.

“Just as we looked forward to marking this significant milestone, our organization instead put all its energy into meeting an unprecedented need due to the unforeseen pandemic crisis,” said Downey.

“Without hesitation, our staff, volunteers and donors met the challenge to continue vital services to our low income and homeless seniors. Their accomplishments are worth celebrating.

“Forget the rocking chairs. We’re ready to rock with Don Felder into the next half century and invite San

Diegans to join us,” said Downey.

Tickets are available now for the 50th anniversary gala and private concert at the Serving Seniors website.

Felder was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the Eagles in 1998. Felder spent 27 years with the Eagles, who recorded the top-selling album of all time — Their Greatest Hits (1971-1975), which has sold over 38 million copies (and counting).

“I’m blessed enough to have contributed to and been a part of a very talented mixture of voices, writing, guitar parts, and production. I’m very proud of that,” Felder says of the group.

Felder left the band in 2001 to forge a career as a top-tier solo artist. Felder added best-selling author to his resume when his 2008

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memoir, Heaven and Hell: My Life in the Eagles (1974-2001), became an instant New York Times smash bestseller.

Felder navigated the emerging rock scene in his native Gainesville, Florida, in the 1960s, while teaching guitar to Tom Petty and learning slide guitar from his longtime friend Duane Allman.

Felder’s lead guitar added fuel to Eagles tracks like “Already Gone,” “One of These Nights,” “Take It to the Limit,” and “New Kid in Town,” in addition to having co-written “Victim of Love,” “Those Shoes,” and his most popular co-creation, “Hotel California.”

Felder has also recorded with and performed alongside top-drawer artists such as The Bee Gees, Michael Jackson, Alice Cooper, Warren Zevon, Barbra Streisand, Elton John, Joni Mitchell, and Stephen Stills.

Delayed but not dimmed by the coronavirus pandemic, the 50th Anniversary ‘Sunshine Gala’ celebrates one half century of history brightening senior lives. The event features a cocktail reception, dinner, and live and silent auction, with a goal of raising $400,000 for

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programs and services needed now more than ever.

Longtime Serving Seniors supporters and notable San Diego philanthropists Gary and Mary West will serve as Honorary Committee. Serving Seniors’ past board chair, community leader, and Sempra Energy Director Molly Cartmill serves as the 50th Anniversary Steering Committee Chair, providing leadership guidance and strategic oversight for activities and events.

Major event sponsors are Sempra and Qualcomm.

Two in five older adults in San Diego County remain unable to afford basic rent, food, transportation, or healthcare. Through ongoing fundraising efforts including this year’s Sunshine Gala, Serving Seniors can help meet these basic needs.

Founded in 1970, Serving Seniors has grown to provide more than 640,000 nutritious meals and coordinated services to 5,000 older adults each year. Follow Serving Seniors on Facebook @ServingSeniorsSD, Instagram @servingseniorssd and Twitter @ServingSeniors.

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September-October, 2021 | VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9

OCTOBER 14 - 24

20th ANNIVERSARY

SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

PASSES START AT $29

ATTEND IN-PERSON AND VIRTUAL Museum of Photographic Arts @ Balboa Park Thurs, Oct 14 Opening Night & Fri, Oct 15 Film Screenings all day

San Diego Museum of Art @ Balboa Park Sat, Oct 16 Film Screenings all day

Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa @ Mission Bay Sun, Oct 17 - Film Screenings all day - Culinary Cinema - Movies on the Bay

USS Midway Downtown San Diego Sat, Oct 23 Film Premiere of Hornet’s Nest followed by a Q&A

Festival Virtual Village Oct 15-24 150 Festival curated Features, Documentaries and Short Films On Demand 24/7 plus Filmmaker Q&As!

2 YEARS @sdfilmfestival

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PURCHASE YOUR PASSES SDFILMFEST.COM

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VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9 | September-October, 2021

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CONSIDERING THE CRUSH: REFLECTIONS ON EUROPEAN TRAVEL WHEN EVERYONE HAS THE SAME IDEA

By JC Cross

Travel restrictions are winding down in a number of countries around the world. But I am taking time to consider what I was really missing out on.

My last international trip was to Italy and when I was in Rome, I realized that I can no longer be on vacation in Europe without realizing I am vacationing. Turning the corner with my smartphone map, we ran into the crush to shoot photos at the Trevi Fountain. Everyone was shooting the same photo and posting it instantly. Look where I am!

Who really is “winning” this one?

The poet William Wordsworth took the Grand Tour like any English gentleman during the period from the 1660s to the 1840s. The tour’s goal was to foster in the traveler an appreciation of the continent’s classical culture and antiquities, and could last for months, sometime years.

But today’s absurdity known as tourism squeezes as many sites and masterpieces into a day as possible, not to mention visitors into titanic buses. The photo opp has replaced contemplation and consideration, with a dollop of inconsideration on top. You’re trying not to curse from the middle of the person stream.

(Want to see something truly absurd? Try the big squash on Mt. Everest.)

How far will the photo-tholon go for the perfect shot? Some travelers have angled for the perfect shot, right before plummeting off the rocky crag.

Politico wrote pre-COVID that it’s a “Boom time for European Tourism.” The article related how Barcelona city officials are trying to stop the construction of new hotels, how Amsterdam had to increase the fines for public drinking and urination, and how workers at Paris’ Louvre went on strike because of the crowds and conditions (read, trash and waste). In whole, ten European

cities published a letter expressing concerns about the uncontrolled growth of Airbnbs and other rental websites.

This isn’t a recent development. In 2017, a CNN story about tourism in Barcelona, Venice, Dubrovnik, and Prague detailed how local residents decried hordes of tourists who make too much noise, pollute the environment, and drive up the local rents. Authorities in Venice had to set rules about leaving trash and the wearing of shirtless swimsuits in public. By 2017, perhaps in a show of weariness, the regular population of Venice had dropped by two thirds in fifty years.

In Barcelona, residents picketed against the eight million annual visitors to their city. Officials there have worked to stop over-development, online rentals, and enacted a tourism tax. In Dubrovnik, enthusiasm for Game of Thrones locales created a 10% tourism increase in 2016. On one day, 9,300 visitors

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from seven cruise ships joined another 25,000 already staying in and around the city. (A typical tourist produces the same pollutants in a seven-day cruise as eighteen on land.) In Prague, bachelor parties and pub crawls were combated with a 10pm sound curfew. Cheap flights and travel services like Airbnb have driven the people crush.

European gentlemen of the Grand Tour sponsored art, language and poetry, classical culture, and of course, rubbing shoulders with other elites. But you can look back at their accounts as more instructive. One of my favorite coffee table books is Yesterday and Today: The Holy Land. Each two-page spread juxtaposes the 19th Century lithographs of the lands of Palestine and Jordan by the artist David Roberts with current day photographs. On one side you see time before cameras, with shepherds or Berbers leading a caravan. On the other, photos that show how much or how little

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things have changed.

Mark Twain famously quipped “travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.” But he also wrote “whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect.” Why follow the majority streaming in and out of the Pantheon, the focus of seated locals drinking Campari?

Wordsworth also had enough: “I traveled among unknown men,/In lands beyond the sea;/Nor, England!

Did I know till then/What love I bore to thee/’Tis past, that melancholy dream!/Nor will I quit thy shore/A second time; for still I seem/ To love thee more and more.” Home isn’t so bad sometimes.

No one will ever really win the contest. I often have my vacation on the empty beach boardwalk at dusk.

Again, Twain: “Good friends, good books and a sleepy conscience: this is the ideal life.”

Maybe now, I also get the people watchers. Another Campari please.

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September-October, 2021 | VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9

The Greg Cox Legacy, Part 3,

the County Board of Supervisors

By Ari Pintado

As we hit our final stretch in our Greg Cox profile, we now explore accomplishments during his last few years as a member of the County Board of Supervisors and his legacy.

As our beloved figure leaves a seat he held since 1995, many look back at the work he did in service to his community.

Cox is known as a “parks guy” and has spent a majority of his career fixing parks, building new parks, and finding ways to make them more enjoyable. Another community aspect that Greg feels deeply about and - still dedicates his time and efforts for - is the welfare of children.

Along with Supervisor Ron Roberts, Greg worked to build programs for foster youth.

When he was first sworn in to serve on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors in 1995, adoption rates were very low, which LOCAL NEWS | LocalUmbrellaNews.com

left thousands of children in the foster care system. In 1998, during his first opportunity to serve as Chair of the Board, Cox held a conference about foster care. He invited his colleagues and county staff to hear the stories of six people who had aged out of the foster system.

Greg was heartbroken hearing their stories, one of which was a woman who had been placed in more than 30 homes, so many that she stopped keeping count. He thought about how these children’s lives were impacted and sought to do something about it.

Supervisors Cox and Roberts launched initiatives to help foster youth, including the purchase of the San Pasqual Academy in Escondido. The County turned it into a residential education campus where foster youth receive education, counseling, and work readiness training. Sadly, with /LocalUmbrellaMedia

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impending changes in state law, the San Pasqual Academy is in danger of closing next year – a decision that was announced shortly after Greg’s term ended. Even in retirement, Greg is still working with stakeholders to evaluate options for the campus to remain open.

Among other endeavors, Greg authored a proposal for the Sweetwater Union High School District to increase graduation rates for teens in the foster program. He also launched a transitional housing program for former foster youth and homeless youth.

Last year’s pandemic was the biggest challenge in his 26 years on the Board. Cox had just completed his term as President of the National Association of Counties when he was chosen by his colleagues to again serve as Chair of the Board of Supervisors.

The world was turned upside down by COVID-19.

In Chula Vista, business owners, families, and employees felt the impacts of the virus.

Necessary restrictions and fear among residents led to job losses and business closures.

Seeing people struggle sent Greg and his colleagues into immediate action, putting the people of the San Diego region first.

The County of San Diego County was one of the first in the country to declare a local emergency due to COVID-19. Following this, they also approved a $6.5 billion annual budget, the largest in the board’s history.

All members of the Board came together for the approval. Greg Cox was the one often responsible for the consensus among the Board. Cox has always been seen as “the peacemaker” among Board members.

Cox says that his approach to almost every disagreement is to find common ground. The recent political climate has many believing in far left or far right politics. There has been a decrease in compromise. The word itself now seems to have a bad meaning. Communication should be ADVERTISE | Press@LocalUmbrella.com

VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9 | September-October, 2021

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Market at Seaport Village. Even today, that market remains hugely popular and has been featured in national media as an example of San Diego’s growing blue economy. All which happened because Greg became involved.

This is just one of many examples as to why Greg Cox has remained a pillar in Chula Vista. His endless hard work, kindness, and willingness to make change has labeled him a legacy among his community and his peers. He was honored in last year’s State of Bonita 2020, where his past accomplishments were addressed. The Underground Utility Districts project, Sweetwater Road Pathway Drainage Improvements, Improvement of the Otay Valley Regional Park, San Miguel Road sidewalk, and Allen School Road sidewalk are a few of those projects.

His presence on the County Board of a big part of politics in order to get good work done. Cox aims to make sure everyone understands the situations in front of them and allows them to explain what they want as a solution. From there they find what solution works best for the majority.

He makes it known that no one is going to get 100 percent of what they want, but together they can get as close as possible.

Helping people is what Cox has always been good at. He is willing to lend a hand to someone who needs it. One person who experienced this firsthand is someone who worked alongside him for many years, Luis Monteagudo.

Monteagudo first met Cox when Luis was a reporter for the San Diego Union-Tribune.

He had been assigned to cover a county press event at the Tijuana River Valley regarding the West Nile Virus. After the event, as Monteagudo was ready to head home, he noticed that his car was stuck in a muddy area. After trying by himself to push his car out of the mud, others from the event noticed his struggle and came over to help him; one of those people was Greg Cox. “Now, I had covered many elected officials as a reporter and I had several who would’ve loved pushing me into a ditch, but I never had a politician roll up his sleeves to help me get out of trouble,” said Monteagudo.

Later on, Monteagudo ended up working for Cox and when he recounted the story to the Supervisor, Greg laughed and found it funny how their roles have now reversed.

Monteagudo was then in charge of making sure Cox was never stuck in the mud, figuratively.

Something Monteagudo admired about Cox was his dedication to his community.

He said that oftentimes we see politicians sit back and let their staff do most of the heavy lifting, but Cox was different.

He would be out there on the field with them. Monteagudo recalls when Cox would come into the office on Monday morning and be hyped up with excitement about all the new projects he’d envisioned. Cox spent his weekends driving around his district, finding things that his team could fix - whether it be potholes, gutters, damaged sidewalks, or removing utility poles. Cox was known to keep a spray bottle of “goo gone” and a scraping tool in the back of his car, often pulling over to the side of the road to remove stickers from street signs.

“He seldom took a day or weekend off from serving his constituents. It’s a rare trait to see in an elected official,” said Monteagudo.

Cox was always excited to fix a problem, especially if he found out that the government was the problem. Monteagudo LOCAL NEWS | LocalUmbrellaNews.com

remembers that, in 2014, the Voice of San Diego had published a piece about local fishermen who had a hard time selling locally-caught seafood in San Diego. The fishermen successfully sold their seafood from their boats and wanted to sell from the docks, but they were having difficulty getting approval from the Port of San Diego and the County Department of Environmental Health.

After it was brought to Cox’s attention, he immediately took action to help. After only two weeks, San Diego celebrated the opening of the Tuna Harbor Dockside /LocalUmbrellaMedia

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Supervisors will be sorely missed. His years of service will always be appreciated, and he will be remembered as someone who always put his community first. He was not afraid to get his hands dirty and put in real work to make a change. Political partisanship was not the drive for accomplishing what he did. Instead, he worked to create a better community.

Greg Cox set the standard high for those who follow in his footsteps. Cox has always offered purpose “to leave a place better than the way you found it.” He has certainly accomplished that.

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September-October, 2021 | VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9

NEWS FROM MISSION TRAILS REGIONAL PARK

Provided by the Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation

Mission Trails Visitor Center Now Open Every Day After 18 long months, the Mission Trails Regional Park (MTRP) Visitor Center is now open full time, from 9am-5pm every day. If you haven’t been in since we reopened part time six weeks ago, please come by to check out our exhibits, talk trails with our volunteers, peruse the library, and shop the Gift Shop to benefit MTRP. If you’ve been waiting to pick up your 5 Peak Challenge certificate and pin, they’re here for you! Though the official challenge ended in summer 2020, you can still commemorate your achievement with a 5-Peak Challenge T-shirt, available in the Gift Shop or in our online store: www.mtrpstore.org.

When you come to the Visitor Center, please note that masks are required, regardless of vaccination status. Looking to volunteer at the Visitor Center?

A link to our volunteer application is on the park’s website: www.mtrp.org.

For Clean Air Day 2020, the MTRP Foundation collaborated with Mission Trails’ City of San Diego staff to create a short video about the types of trees at Mission Trails to educate about native plants but to also encourage residents to bring more trees and large shrubs into their yards.

A second video is a tutorial on how to best plant trees. The videos’ host is MTRP Ranger Heidi Gutknecht, who shares characteristics about the trees, which can be grown at home, and demonstrates how trees should be planted. And, of course, Heidi shares information about how crucially important trees are to air quality. Links to the films and the Clean Air Pledge are on the homepage of the MTRP website: www.mtrp.org.

After watching the videos, our hope is that YOU will be inspired to plant trees, whether native, ornamental, or fruit trees. Also on our website, we air and beautiful views, but San have links to a host of resourcJoin us for California Clean Air Day, Wednesday, October 6 Diego is, in fact, one of the most es about trees and air quality, ozone-polluted cities in the For the second consecutive planting and maintaining trees, year, the Mission Trails Regional state. To help clean our air and and local nurseries that carry Park Foundation will participate breathe fresh air, we invite you California native plants. Our to join us in taking the Clean in California Clean Air Day, a friends at SDG&E are currentAir Pledge. The initiative outstatewide initiative that calls on ly offering FREE trees to San Californians to help improve Diego County households, and lines ways that we can help imair quality and protect public prove air quality in our everyday a link to their tree program is health. included in the Clean Air Day life, from changing air filters to Many come to Mission Trails content on our website. switching to electric yard tools Regional Park to enjoy the fresh and planting trees.

Volunteer Camp Hosts Needed Campground hosts at Mission Trails’ Kumeyaay Lake Campground (KLC) play an active role in the care and maintenance of KLC as well as providing visitors with park information, assisting park staff with opening and closing procedures, and help create a welcoming environment for campers. In exchange for an RV site with full hookups, each camp host provides 20 hours of volunteer service each week, primarily on weekends (Friday through Sunday and certain Monday holidays) when the campground is open. More information about this opportunity is on the park’s website, and applications are accepted through October 1, 2021.

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September-October, 2021 | VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9

TWO UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURES AWAIT YOU Experience Vietnam and Spain/Portugal with the Chamber Debra Rosen experienced the Vietnam trip in February of 2019 and said, “it was the experience of a lifetime, probably the second favorite trip of the many we have taken.”

North San Diego Business Chamber has announced their International travel plans for 2021 - 2022 and never before, has traveling to exotic places been this affordable. These international trips are open to anyone 18 and over.

The destinations of travel for 2021 include Portugal and Spain November 1-9, 2021, and a trip to Vietnam February 19-28 2022.

For more details and information on all trips visit https://sdbusinesschamber.com/travel/ The Vietnam adventure will take place from February 19-28, 2022. The $2399 offers an inclusive package that includes 10 days/8 nights. North San Diego Business Chamber President,

Vietnam Tour Price $2399 Includes: • Roundtrip International Airfare & Tax from LAX • Vietnamese Domestic Airfare & Tax • 4- and 5-Star Hotel Accommodations • Daily 3 Meals • Deluxe Bus Tours • Fluent English-speaking Tour Guides • Entrance Fees to Attractions Not Included: • Visa Fee • Gratuities • Personal Shopping Destination Highlights can be found at https://sdbusinesschamber.com/travel/ The Portugal/Spain adventure will take place November 1-9, 2021 Portugal/Spain price from $3299 Includes: • 9 days, 7 nights including hotels, meals, day trips, and airfare from San Diego, CA • Round Trip Air Transportation - Air Transportation from San Diego, Ca • First-Class Accommodations Hotel Accommodations for 7 Nights • Superb Cuisine - 10 Included Meals Consisting Of 7 Buffet Breakfasts and 3 Dinners.

Wine and Water Included with Dinners

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• Sightseeing Tour Program - - Sightseeing, including local guide and all entrance fees as follows: City tours of Lisbon, Évora, and Seville as well as tour of Jerez and Arcos de la Frontera including horse show and a visit to Bodega.

• Optional tours available • Cultural Discovery Series • Professional Tour Director • Deluxe Motor Coaches • Baggage Handling and Transfers – • Optional Madrid extension available Destination Highlights can be found at https://sdbusinesschamber.com/travel/ “We’re offering the opportunity for the community to travel

with the Chamber at competitive and inclusive rates,” said Debra Rosen, President and CEO of the North San Diego Business Chamber. “The Chamber has traveled to China, Spain, Italy, Ireland, South Africa, Croatia and the Rhine River.” One does not need to be a member of the Chamber to travel with them.

Chamber traveler, Melissa DeLaCazada and her friends have been on all of the Chamber trips and she shares, “Chamber trips are ideal for those traveling alone or with friends, and a great deal featuring all-inclusive travel destinations. I’ve visited countries, always dreamed of visiting, and felt completely comfortable and safe doing so with the Chamber.”

Get your friends and family together and join us for this fabulous trip!

Details and registration here at https://sdbusinesschamber.com/ travel/ For more details call 858-922-1766 @LocalUmbrellaMedia

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VOLUME 6 | ISSUE VOLUME 9 | 6September-October, | ISSUE 8 | August, 2021 2021

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FOLLOW YOUR PASSION FOLLOW YOUR LOVE

As Shared By Eddie Lain Eddie Lain is a photographer, filmmaker and entrepreneur well known among the community of San Diego. Eddie’s passion for photography stems from his father, Robert, who was hardly ever without a still or film camera. Growing up, Eddie was always in awe of his father’s little magical boxes, those mechanisms that produced such beauty and art.

Robert, a dashing young Captain in the US Army, fresh out of dental school at USC and stationed at Fort Ord, on Monterey Bay, California.

Robert was born in the 1920’s and grew up in Los Angeles during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Many of his school yard friends were getting into the glamorous business of movies. One of his childhood friends was none other than Judy Garland! While passionate for the art of film and photography, his parents wanted a different life for him. They determined Robert’s destiny and it was to take over his father’s dental practice. While at UCLA and USC, Robert’s interest in photography grew and he began acquiring various cameras and tinkered with photography in between his science studies.

Shortly out of college, Robert was drafted into the US Army in the late 1940’s. It was at this time, that he acquired a high-end war-era Exakta 35mm camera with what was the best quality lens of the day, a Carl Zeiss lens. This was Robert’s pride and joy. By today’s standards, these cameras were very basic and everything manual, but for the day, they took outstanding photos. (A fun bit of trivia: An Exakta VX was used by James Stewart's character, a professional photographer, to spy on his possibly murderous neighbor in Alfred Hitchcock's Rear Window.)

While serving as a Captain in the Army in Northern California, Robert brought his camera with him everywhere. One evening, he was on a training mission to fly in a small airplane with a few other soldiers. The plane had only basic controls and gauges, no fancy electronics, much like his camera. But there was nothing to photograph out the window on this flight that night, only dense fog. The pilot and plane were lost and the passengers feared for their lives. Would they ever see their loved ones again? They didn’t know whether they were over land or water, or if

Lost in the fog on a training mission out of Fort Ord, Robert and his team flew in a Piper Cub. An American light aircraft that was built between 1938 and 1947 and used by the US Army for reconnaissance, liaison and ground control.

they were about to slam into the side of a rocky mountain or strike a tall redwood prevalent in the area. After what seemed like hours, the fog eventually parted enough where they could see the ground and make an emergency landing. The fear of flying was forever burnt deep into Robert’s core.

Enter Laura, a young bright-eyed gal from Mineral Wells, a little town in Texas, who moved to Hollywood to pursue her passion for fashion design. She had hopes of finding love and had dreams of seeing the world, together. One evening, she and a few of her friends decided to go to a USO dance at the Hollywood Palladium, a very popular venue where the big bands of the day like Tommy Dorsey and Benny Goodman’s Orchestra would play the swing music of the era.

She was there to dance and be swooned by the handsome men in their dashing uniforms. She didn’t anticipate meeting the man that would eventually become her husband 4 years later. When Robert approached to ask her to dance, her first reaction was “No”. He approached from the side and from her peripheral vision, she saw that he was in civilian clothes. She immediately prejudged that there must be something wrong with him if he wasn’t fit for the military. But when she turned to say “No”, he reminded her of a cousin of whom she had a childhood crush. So, she said “Yes”, they danced, they joked, they laughed and she learned that he was in civilian clothes because he was now enrolled at USC dental school and on leave from the military, yet would be reinducted to be a US Army dentist.

Their love and their marriage endured for 65 years. In that time, they traveled by car to see a few parts of the United States. With the fear of flying ingrained deep into Robert’s psyche, together they never saw the world and that part of Laura’s dream was snuffed.

Nine years after they were married, Eddie’s older brother Ken was born. When Ken was about 12, Robert gave Ken his beloved Canon 8-2 8mm film camera. Ken was immediately hooked and began producing home movies with his school friends, often using Eddie as a disposable prop and reluctant stunt boy. While Eddie’s first experience in the film business was both physically and emotionally painful, he was hooked as well.

When Eddie “came of age” his father gifted that special Exakta camera to him.

Eddie was accepted to UCSD with dreams of becoming a doctor while also minoring in photography while there, and putting that Exakta to good use. Eddie’s passion for film and photography grew and he became increasingly involved with producing and photographing fashion shows, live concerts and events, and filmmaking.

The Exakta VX that was Robert’s pride and joy.

35mm film was becoming more scarce and dwindled into obscurity while digital started to take over. So, Eddie shelved the Exakta, yet was never happy with the lesser quality digital cameras of the time or within a reasonable price tag for a new college graduate. It was not until 2014 that Eddie bit the bullet and purchased his own high-end camera of that day, a Canon 5D Mark 3. He was looking forward to once again sharing

LainScapes Fine Art Photography by Eddie Lain. Just a few of Eddie’s images he has captured during his travels and adventures around the world. Enjoy more images at www.LainScapes.com Top right: Eddie filming on location in Athens, Greece.

from Eddie’s adventures. She may not know from where the photos came nor the stories behind them, yet the photos brighten her room and bring joy to her every day.

As for Eddie, he continues to take photos of far away places. He wishes that he can inspire others with the beauty of the world that he captures hoping others will plot their own adventures and chase their dreams while they are still able.

You can live vicariously through Eddie’s travels and enjoy his photography by visiting his gallery at www.LainScapes.com

They were together and in love for over 65 years only seperated

by Robert’s passing. Shown here on their 3rd anniversary.

the passion for photography with his father, and, now armed with an amazing camera, Eddie joined a travel club. He planned to bring the beauty of the world back home to his mother so she could live vicariously through his travels and share photography stories and tech talk with his dad.

Yet just as his travel and adventures began, Eddie’s father passed away. Soon afterwards, his mother’s health began to decline, as she succumbed to the ravages of dementia. Eddie would arrive home excited to share his latest stories and photos of his adventures, only to discover she had lost more than only her withered dreams of seeing the world, she was also losing the ability to recognize her own family.

We all have had dreams and passions. Life has a way of getting in the way of the pursuit of them. And if relegated to the pile of those “one of these days” hopes, the opportunity may quietly slip away into oblivion.

At the age of 96, Laura currently lives in an assisted care facility with the walls of her room adorned with large printed photos

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Passion and love always together. Robert, Laura and a camera in their golden years.

P E O P L E

P L A C E S

T H I N G S

E V E N T S

w w w. L a i n S c a p e s . c o m

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September-October, 2021 | VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9

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VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9 | September-October, 2021

STARING AT THE SUN XIII

SEPTEMBER 2021

BY BART MENDOZA © MUSICSCENESD // MUSICSCENESD.COM

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Free Show, Free Local Music Album!

San Diego music fans will want to pick up a copy of the local music compilation Staring at the Sun XIII. Produced

by Music Scene editor Bart Mendoza, the album is sponsored by publisher Local Umbrella Media and rehearsal studio / music center Rock and Roll San Diego, with support from 91X-FM’s Loudspeaker program and host, Tim Pyles. This edition of Staring at the Sun XIII features 46 of San Diego’s favorite artists in a 2 disc, six panel package, complete with exclusive art by comics legend Scott Shaw!

On September 30, The Casbah will host a free album release show, featuring Nathan Raney, Evening’s Empire and Tamar Berk, with The Tourmaliners in the Razzmatazz Room. The night will be hosted by Hairy Scary Spice of the Spice Pistols and Bart Mendoza.

The fun starts at 9 p.m.

Started in 1992, the Staring at the Sun compilation series has become a highly collectable snapshot of San Diego’s music scene through the decades. “There are so many wonderfully talented

musicians and bands in San Diego it’s a very validating experience to be included in this compilation,” said bassist Spike Mike Muellenberg, aka Hairy Scary Spice of the Spice Pistols, who feature on the album. Nathan Raney concurs. “I love Staring at the Sun,” he said. “Not every city invests in its local music scene, but San Diego has such a rich history in music, it’s awesome to be a part of that history. It’s an honor to walk in the footsteps of all the musician before me and continue this amazing scene.” Meanwhile guitarist Wayne Riker is succinct. “I like the fact that I can hear dozens of local artists on one compilation album that would pique my interest to see live,” he commented.

This year’s edition of Staring at the Sun has a wide range of music, with longtime favorites such as The Monroes, The Sleepwalkers, Electric Mud, Mittens and Falling Doves with Pete Best.

Yes, that Pete Best. There are plenty of SDMA (and other awards) winners to be found here, including two Lifetime Achievement Award recipients, Wayne

Riker (2018) and Richard Livoni (2020), here with his group, Sons of Edison.

Classic artists return as well, including punk pioneers, The Dinettes, with their first song in decades, and Eli Holland as well as Laurie Beebe Lewis (Mamas and Papas / The Buckinghams) contribute a song from their new group, The Original Starfires. Then there’s radio jingles from Mojo Nixon, Manual Scan, Pony Death Ride and Satanic Puppeteer Orchestra. We’re just scratching the surface; Sorry It’s Over, Cambrian Shores, The Naked I, Ariel Levine, Sometimes Julie, Roni Lee, The Spice Pistols, Evan Diamond, The Tourmaliners, Mind Cell, Enter The Blue Sky and many more.

Adding to the celebration the night will also showcase the release of Nathan Raney’s latest album, Season of Serenity.

Free Staring at the Sun XIII Album and Free Show September 30 at the Casbah – Don’t Miss It! www.casbahmusic.com

Museum of Making Music For fans of music, it’s easy enough to find details on particular artists, but locating info on the history and nuances of the instruments used to create said music is a very different thing. Luckily for anyone interested, The Museum of Making Music (5790 Armada Dr, 92008) is located in Carlsbad, giving aficionados an inside look at how music is made. The museum has been completely remodeled, going from a linear timeline footprint, to a more interactive, immersive facility, featuring in depth displays for adults and plenty of interactive, hands on activities for the younger set. The updated Music of Making Music is a joy to wander through, with computer touch screens and an impressive array of instruments, from basic stringed creations of wood to electronic marvels.

“We tell the story of the families, the organizations LOCAL NEWS | LocalUmbrellaNews.com

and the people who make those instruments and what happens to the instruments when they get into the hands of you and I,” said the museums Marketing Manager, BJ Morgan. He’s particularly happy with the museum’s new layout.

“We went through a massive renovation in 2020,” he said. “We changed the storyline of the museum from one that was presented chronologically to a thematic approach where we can fit a lot of those stories as I just mentioned and take a look at the drivers of

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change; how makers made instruments, how retailers sold those instruments and then what happened to those instruments when they became popular, when they changed beyond their intended purpose and the emotional connection that people have to their instruments when they make music.”

Highlights include a display of Beatles related gear and an immersive video projection room, perfect for a quiet moment of reflection or contemplation. For anyone who

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enjoys making music or is just curious about how far we’ve come in the process, this museum is an essential visit. Looking around the new exhibits, as a music fan himself, Morgan is pleased with both the museums updated look and the additional information on offer to the public. “We hope that visitors learn something about how the music they love is created,” he said. “And we hope to make it a fun experience.”

Mission accomplished! www.museumofmakingmusic.org

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September-October, 2021 | VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9

Museum of Making Music

The NAMM Show

The Museum of Making Music is located in the NAMM (National

Association of Music Merchants) offices located in Carlsbad. Outside of the music world, NAMM is virtually unknown, but amongst musicians, it’s a name that is revered. NAMM is synonymous with music. A large part of that is due to their annual epic tradeshow held at the Anaheim Convention Center. With attendance at well over

100,000, there is no question that the NAMM tradeshow is one the biggest music events on the planet.

2018 saw more than 2,000 exhibiting companies from around the world taking part, with more than 7,000 brands represented. Essentially for retailers to learn about new products, and not open to the public, it’s the hottest ticket for just

about any musician, with miles of aisles roam, numerous seminars and demonstrations, plus the bonus of plenty of sightings of musical heroes in attendance. The pandemic cancelled the 2021 edition and the 2022 edition has likewise been postponed. Normally held at the end of January, NAMM 2022 will now take place June 3 – 5.

SLACK KEY OHANA

Lucky Accidents

Fans of the acoustic guitar, ukulele and Pacific sounds, will want to hear the new combo, Slack Key Ohana, comprised of Kamaka Mullen and Brian Witkin. Playing music steeped in the traditions of Hawaiian music, although Slack Key Ohana is a duo, the band lineup depends on the occasion, ranging from duo to full band with pedal steel, bass, drums, ukulele, four harmony vocals etc.

The band’s creation was almost inevitable, given the lineup of circumstances. “Brian approached me about slack key guitar lessons after finding me online,” Mullen said. The first lesson was at Witkin’s office at Pacific Records / Rock and Roll San Diego. “As I entered the studio, I had to pretend to be uninterested in how freaking awesome the whole place was (and still is),” Mullen said. “Well, we had ongoing lessons at his house and a few at his studio. One day I posted a pic of my home recording rig as a teaser to my next project, and Brian

was like, “Do you want to record at my studio?” Of course, that was a no brainer.” Witkin produced and engineered Mullen’s most recent album, I Mua. “After that, one thing led to another for us to collaborate.

It was like we were meant to find each other. We even found out that we were both born the same year.”

What’s the attraction to the classic Hawaiian sound? “I’ve been drawn to Hawaiian culture pretty much my entire life as I was lucky to start visiting the islands at a young age and it stuck,” Witkin said. “I even have an extensive vinyl collection of vintage Hawaiian music at home that I’m very proud of.” Mullen notes the duo are both big fans of the powerhouse trio, Hui ‘Ohana. “Our thought was, maybe we could create a duo and get younger generations excited about slack key guitar again.

As we know, it’s a dying art. Even in Hawaii it’s not that common. So, one of the things we hope to do is revitalize the slack key movement.”

Slack Key Ohana is working on

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their debut album, but first a self titled EP will be released, featuring a mix of originals and covers.

“Our recording and writing process was a bit unorthodox as we were

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writing and recording at the same time,” Mullen said. “This led to some magical “accidents” that we couldn’t re-create even if we tried.

It was pure magic. Everything from the secret pop of the tape when we were mastering to the improvisational endings. Lucky accidents.”

The band currently has about 3 hours’ worth of material for extended live shows. “We have some originals as well as vintage covers that we give our own special treatment to, the “Hanalei Treatment,” Mullen said. “We have hula songs, and we also adopt modern Hawaiian song writer’s songs into our performances. We have a little bit of something for everyone.”

The future holds plenty of recording and hopefully, world travels.

Slack Key Ohana has begun to play live, with a view to touring as soon as possible. Recent gigs include the sold out East County Magazine “Party in Paradise” at Jamul Casino on September 25. “Before we officially launched, we were already getting a lot of booking interest,” Witkin commented. “Apparently, there aren’t a lot of groups out there doing what we’re doing,” he said good naturedly. www.SlackKeyOhana.com

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VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9 | September-October, 2021

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CATHRYN BEEKS

Listen Local

The hardest working woman in San Diego?

It’s a long list of potential candidates for that accolade, but near the top would have to be Cathryn Beeks. A performer herself, with multiple SDMA nominations to her credit, as well as a band member of both Calamity and The Desert Drama Club, she’s involved in many aspects of the arts community as a photographer, film maker and event producer, and even has a vintage clothing business. However, Beeks is perhaps best known as the host and producer of the long running Listen Local online radio program What sets her show apart from other local radio shows? “Well, my show has always offered a wide variety of genres and unless the audio quality is unlistenable, I include every song that is submitted,” Beeks said. “So there are really slick professionally produced studio tracks as well as some pretty lo fi home recordings.” She notes that she also uses the term “local” loosely these days “since many of my favorite artists have left San Diego, so my show includes unsigned music from all over the world. I think the most unique aspect of the show, however, is that each song is introduced by the songwriter or band which I find engaging as it gives me a deeper appreciation of the song.”

Beeks has been broadcasting since 2005, co-

producing her first Listen Local program with Tim Flack of Idynomite Media in 2005. She next hosted The Homegrown Hour on 102.1 KPRi from 2009 to 2015 and had a short stint on KNSJ in 2016. “Since then I’ve been producing a monthly show and you can hear every episode from anything I’ve ever done on www.

Soundcloud.com/listenlocalradio,” Beeks said.

There you will find over 700 local music themed episodes from various shows over the years.

“Some exciting recent news is that I’ll be hosting an hour show the first Sunday of every month on Jack’s Tracks on KPRi 93.1fm Pala Rez Radio beginning in September.”

Beeks focus is on San Diego, though currently she resides in the high desert, at Hart Acres. “It’s named in honor of my dad, Hartley Beeks, who we lost in December of 2019,” Beeks said. “It’s a private campground/event space that we’re carving into the sand on my parents 2.5 acres in Lucerene Valley. So far we’ve built a putt putt golf course, horseshoes and bocce ball, a fancy water closet, outdoor shower, added camping sites and remodeled our RV into a comfy and creative space where folks can write songs, paint, or just relax in the magical Mojave.” This Fall Hart Acres will be offering The Songwriter Sleepover and Chick Camp retreats as well as a Berkley Hart songwriter’s retreat and a special Halloween weekend event.

Despite the hard work, Beeks is happy to support the area’s artists. “San Diego’s local music community is a family,” she said. “It’s supportive and nurturing while still being cool and full of legit rock stars.” She considers that she is still discovering the High Desert’s music community,

“but the Joshua Tree area certainly feels similar in that everyone, no matter what skill level, seems to appreciate and respect each other and seem willing to help.” She notes that it takes many things to nurture a vital music scene. “I’ve always felt that a music community’s vibe comes from how supportive the media are in including their city’s music and, most importantly, those special venues that we all know and love in each town. San Diego has a few very supportive journalists and we’ve had so many venues that feel like home, the kind of legendary places that make a scene.”

With decades in the music biz, what drives Beeks? “Even though there is no benefits package or 401K, I view music promotion as a job and it’s a job I love,” she said. “I am fortunate to have loyal and supportive sponsors and subscribers via Patreon who make it all possible.

Besides my vintage clothing gig and photo work here and there this is literally how all of the Listen Local programs and I survive. It is those folks who encourage me to continue and allow me to do so,” Beeks said. “My goal is to increase listenership and subscribers so I can offer more services, more programs and share more stuff. www.Patreon.com/listenlocalradio www.HartAcres.info www.cathrynbeeks.com

NEW RELEASES “It’s not only fun to replay and reimagine that material; I believe it’s important to remember and honor where we came from and how we got here.”

• Jason Mraz is celebrating the 20th Anniversary of his independently released album, Live & Acoustic. Recorded live at legendary venue, Java Joe’s in Ocean Beach, alongside percussionist Toca Rivera, the new edition, out November 5, will be highlighted by two unreleased songs from the original recordings – “Water” and “What We Want.” The album has been remastered and will be available on vinyl for the first time. “Live & Acoustic celebrates the poetry, harmony, and humor that became the foundation for my entire career,” Mraz said.

• Hip hop fans will want to hear Riston Diggs new album out this month, 35. “The cover represents the year I was born,” he noted.

The seven-song album is produced

by Banyon Bachman of the saxophone band, One Hot Planet. Any special guests? “None at all,” Riggs said. “This is a full solo project of me!”

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soon, but “we’re still deciding on doing an album,” said Bloodstone.

His next solo album is already in the works, set to be called, Holy Micromony.

• Bloodstone the Street Preacher returns this month has a new album, My Testimony.

Meanwhile he’s formed a new all-star hip-hop combo, Da GRINDAZ, made up of Bloodstone the Street Preacher, BMSD and AD Walker. The trio have a new single out now, “Slap It In Ya,” with a video on the way. “We were all brainstorming on doing a song,” said Bloodstone. “Once we got the idea, I said we should just make a group called da Grindaz, because we’re all working hard.” Second single “Where da Party at” is due @LocalUmbrellaMedia

• Alternative rockers Evening’s Empire debut album, Alive For Us, is out now. “It reflects the long journey we’ve taken coming together and taking on the challenges of life when you lose your way,” says the band. “Our next single we’re releasing to mark the album and that journey is appropriately called “Fall Behind.”

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San Diego Music News

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September-October, 2021 | VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9

• Music Scene SDTV, brought to you by Concerts.Cafe and Local Umbrella Media, airs every Friday night at 6:30 p.m. on your favorite platform, including Amazon Prime, Youtube, Facebook etc. Upcoming episodes include September 24: Tamar Berk, October 1: The Spice Pistols and October 8: Victoria Robertson • 1970’s era music icons Abba are back after a 40 year break. Video footage announcing their return includes Benny Andersson playing piano, with place of prominence given to a Taylor Guitar.

• Drummer Brad Cunningham, bassist Wayne Kellerman and guitarist Mike Baier from rockers Overfall have started a new progressive hard rock/metal band called Ashes of Fate. The trio will join forces with second guitarist Tony Martinez and lead singer Tim Bortree. “We’re working on original material and looking to get out on a stage by end of this year or the beginning of 2022,” said Cunningham.

• Hit songwriter Stephen Bishop has his autobiography, On and Off, published May 2022.

• Black Market III has recorded a version of the classic song by 1960’s legends, Love, “Alone Again Or.” In related news, Love Revisited, featur-

ing original Love guitarist Johnny Echols, will perform at the Casbah on October 15. The Loons open.

• Classic rock heroes Chicago have

a new compilation, Japanese Singles Collection, collecting rare edits and several sung in Japanese. The 2-CD / 1-DVD collection includes the bands run of hit single featuring former Point Loman, bassist / singer Jason Scheff.

• Hades Reborn is a new progressive rock trio featuring singer Lee Lake, guitarists Mike Ruggirello and John Garvey, as well as bassist Wayne Kellerman and drummer Derron Dubree. “Lee and I were writing and jamming last year and we let nature take its course,” said Ruggirello of the bands formation.

The band’s first single “1983” is due in November. Ruggirello can be seen regularly on Music Scene SDTV’s Gadget Corner.

• Former Steve Miller guitarist Greg Douglass has a new band, The Sidewinders. “The singers are great,” said Douglass. “We have a bassist who is freakishly good. I’ve never been prouder to step onstage with a group of players.” The setlist includes guitar hero favorites such as “Beck’s Bolero” by Jeff Beck and “Vaseline Machine Gun” by Leo Kottke, as well as plenty of Steve Miller tunes, including Douglass own “Jungle Love.” Meanwhile, Douglass is a guest on the upcoming album from Creedence Clearwater Revival founder Doug “Cosmo” Clifford and Steve Wright of The Greg Kihn Band, For All the Money in the World • The California Guitar Trio has released a new album, Live In Scottsdale On Tour With King Crimson, recorded as part of a recent tour opening for said legendary group.

The band includes Chapman stick player Tom Griesgraber: “The recording captures our entire opening set from the last show in Scottsdale, AZ and also includes videos of the entire performance,” he said. “The tour was a whirlwind of fourteen shows across eight states in less than three weeks, traveling from FL through GA, TN, TX, CO, UT, CA and finally AZ. We played in some truly historic venues like the Ryman in Nashville, Fox Theatre Atlanta and the Greek Theater in LA as well as a sports arena in Austin and several amphitheaters. It’s a joy and a challenge making music with Bert Lams and Paul Richards and I hope you enjoy the results!”

• On October 2, jazz/rock/soul fusion combo Hemisphere will perform their album, American Dreams, at Humphrey’s Backstage Live. “This will be a ten-piece band performance,” said the band’s guitarist, Rob Shinno. “We have a lot of pent-up energy for our first

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show back and plan to blow the roof off the place.” The bill includes the Grant Clarkson Trio opening the night and the Hemi-Funkadelics to close the show. Hemisphere is currently in the studio working with producer Peter Sprague.

• Blues favorites The January Berry Band are at Grease Punk Studio working on original music for an upcoming album • The Casbah’s Ben Johnson has a book release event on September 25 at Verbatim Books (4-7 p.m.) The celebration spotlights Johnson’s latest, “Children of the Web,” book three of the Webworld Trilogy

• Legendary 1960’s era San Diego garage rockers, The Lyrics will have their 1965 single “So What / They Can’t Hurt Me” reissued by British label Big Beat / Ace Records this month. Both songs are also included on the Various Artists compilation: Blow My Mind! The Doré-Era-Mira Punk & Psych Legacy, also from Ace.

• The Grand Ole Opry has released a new merchandise line featuring former Oceanside country star, Barbara Mandrell, in celebration of her signature hit “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool.” The items include “I Was Country When Country Wasn’t Cool” branded shirts, posters, and coffee mugs and more. Mandrell ultimately scored 50 Top 40 Country hits, including six #1’s.

• “We are a unique novelty variety duo,” says Danny D of The Microphone Doctors. “We just released our latest single, “The Deuce & Mom’s Spaghetti,” which is hip hop take on classic children’s songs.”

The pair have a new album out on Halloween called, Together with Two, which will be released alongside a children’s picture book and is set to feature a “pronouns song.”

“I have had two other books in the San Diego Library and am excited to release a new book, on inclusion and diversity!” www.themicrophonedoctors.com • Plosivs is the name of the new @LocalUmbrellaMedia

band featuring Rob Crow (Pinback etc), John Reis (Drive Like Jehu / Rocket From The Crypt), Atom Willard (drums - Against Me!, Angels & Airwaves) and Jordan Clark (bass - Mrs. Magician).

The first song from the band “Hit The Breaks” is out now, they make their live San Diego debut November 5 at the Quartyard.

• Residency news: Violinist Alicia Previn performs a solo show, Through the Decades, every Sunday at the Jacked Up Brewery in Escondido. Set times alternate each week so check the venue listings.

Previn performs solo (with loops and backings) versions of classic songs from various eras. Previn can be heard on several chart recordings including General Public’s “Come Again” (1986), Cracker’s “Mr. Wrong” (1992), The Hothouse Flowers “Easier In The Morning” (1987) and The Communards “You Are My World” (1984) • Powerpop fave Steve Rosenbaum will be featured on a second Asa Brebner tribute album, “I Am Not Gone 2”, due to be released later this year. “Asa was a Boston institution,” said Rosenbaum. “I covered his song, “I Walk The Streets.” Brebner was a former member of such iconic 1970’s era bands as Jonathan Richman and The Modern Lovers and Robin Lane and the Chartbusters.

• Rap trio Sky Tower Click has released a new single / video “4Life,” from the forthcoming album, Came A Long Way”. Sky Tower Click is rappers Mackvillin, Nasty-O and Hustle Mac. • Switchfoot has just dropped the fifth single / video, “Lost Cause,” from their latest album, Interrobang. Collectors alert: The band has recently issued a slew of new cool merch as well as made Interrobang available in six different colored vinyl limited editions

• Deven Berryhill of The Tourmaliners also performs with iconic combo The Surfari’s. At a festival date in Marysville, Michigan on August 28, the band was joined onstage by Anson William of 1970’s sitcom, Happy Days, for a dance through “Misrilou” • In local label news: Surfdog Records has just released rock-a-billy icon Brian Setzer’s first solo album in seven years, Gotta Have The Rumble.

The album’s second single is “Smash Up On Highway One.” Meanwhile, Pacific Records has signed Star Vox Lullaby, with a new single out now, “Love Inside Out” and an EP, Venus 1, Out September 24. Notably, Star Vox Lullaby is a group composed of Patricio A. Pickslay (AKA Lotus), Jon Wuebben (AKA J Dub), and J Scott Bergman (AKA L Nuclear), all of which have independent releases with Pacific prior to the formation of the band.

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VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9 | September-October, 2021

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SMOKING CANNABIS DOES NOT HARM YOUR LUNGS LIKE SMOKING TOBACCO

By Michael Patterson, NSA, OTR/L, CEAS

A recent study published in the JAMA NETWORK asked the ageold question; Is there an Association between Marijuana Exposure and Pulmonary Function over 20 years?

What they discovered was that “occasional and low cumulative marijuana use was NOT adverse effects on pulmonary function”.

In other words, cannabis smoke – unlike tobacco smoke – doesn’t have such a drastic impact on lung function despite having some of the same chemical profile in smoke.

The study performed was called CARDIA, which is a longitudinal study designed to measure risk factors for coronary artery disease in a cohort of black and white women and men (n = 5115) aged 18 through 30 years and healthy at enrollment in 1985. Participants were sampled from 4 US communities without selection for smoking behaviors and comprise a broad cross-section of typical tobacco and marijuana use patterns.

Each study center (Oakland, Chicago, Minneapolis, and Birmingham), participants underwent a baseline examination and 6 follow-up examinations, with 69% retention at year 20. Pulmonary function testing was performed at years 0, 2, 5, 10, and 20. For this investigation, we included all visits for which pulmonary function, smoking behavior, secondhand smoke exposure, height, and waist circumference were available.

Current intensity of tobacco use (cigarettes smoked per day) was assessed at each examination. These data, along with baseline examination data on past years of smoking, were used to estimate cumulative lifetime exposure to cigarettes in terms of pack-years, with 1 packyear of exposure equivalent to 7300 cigarettes (1 year × 365 days/y × 1 pack/d × 20 cigarettes/pack). Misclassification of smoking exposure by self-report, measured by comparisons with serum cotinine levels, is uncommon.19 Current intensity of marijuana use (episodes in the last 30 days) was also assessed at each examination.

Using baseline examination data on past lifetime exposure to marijuana, current intensity of marijuana use, and another question designed to assess number of joints or filled pipe bowls smoked per episode we calculated total lifetime exposure to marijuana joints in joint-years, with 1 joint-year of exposure equivalent to 365 joints or filled pipe bowls smoked (1 year × 365 days/y × 1 joint/d), as described previously.20 The 5115 CARDIA participants recruited in 1985-1986 contributed 20 777 total visits that included pulmonary function testing. Of these, 959 visits were excluded for lack of complete information on smoking behavior, 114 for lack of height or waist measurements, and 1 for an unknown visit date, leaving 19 703 visits (95%) with complete data from 5016 participants (98%). Participants contributed 3.9 visits/participant on average; attrition was more common in tobacco smokers but not associated with marijuana use. FEV and FVC varied across participants, increased slightly with age through the late 20s, and declined slowly thereafter.

More than half of participants (54%; mean age at baseline, 25 years) reported current marijuana smoking, tobacco smoking, or both at 1 or more examinations. Smoking patterns differed by race and sex, with black women most likely to smoke tobacco only, white men most likely to smoke marijuana only, and black men most likely to smoke both. Tobacco smokers tended to have lower education and income and to be slightly shorter and less active, whereas marijuana smokers tended to be taller and more active. The median intensity of tobacco use in tobacco smokers was substantially higher (8-9 cigarettes/d) than the median intensity of marijuana use in marijuana smokers (2-3 episodes in the last 30 days). Although marijuana and tobacco exposures were strongly correlated, our sample included 91 participants with no tobacco exposure and more than 10 joint-years of marijuana exposure (contributing 153 observations of pulmonary function), 40 (56 observations) of

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whom had more than 20 joint-years of exposure.

The findings suggest that occasional use of marijuana for these or other purposes may not be associated with adverse consequences on pulmonary function. It is more difficult to estimate the potential effects of regular heavy use, because this pattern of use is relatively rare in our study sample; however, our findings do suggest an accelerated decline in pulmonary function with heavy use and a resulting need for caution and moderation when marijuana use is considered.

Analysis

While this study is good news, smoking cannabis for medical

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purposes is not the most efficient way to consume medicine. A lot of cannabinoid effects are lost when cannabis is burned to be smoked.

A similar, but better way to consume cannabis is via vaporizer or vape pen. The cannabis not being burned but heated into a vapor, which maintains all of the cannabinoids in order to be available for absorption into the body. Furthermore, more accurate dosing of cannabis can be found via edibles or tinctures, which allow a patient to have a measured amount of cannabinoids (THC, CBD, THCA, CBG, CBN, etc.) to build confidence and certainty in the reaction of cannabis medicine on the body.

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September-October, 2021 | VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9

Guests

KIDS’ TURN SAN DIEGO 9TH ANNUAL NIGHT AT THE PADRES EVENT AND CONCERT Kids’ Turn San Diego (KTSD) hosted their 9th Annual Night at the Padres event on Saturday, July 31st at The Ultimate Skybox, just outside Petco Park, and launched their 25th Anniversary Celebration.

86 friends of Kids’ Turn San Diego came together to support scholarships for families to attend KTSD programs while enjoying the game and a beautiful San Diego evening from atop the balcony of The Ultimate Skybox. Blue Hooz, an acoustic Delta blues and classic rock band, provided an incredible live music concert as a way to kick off the event and celebration and we heard two parents share their heart-warming stories about how their participation in KTSD programs have changed their lives and relationships with their children and co-parents.

The evening was a resounding success, with $13,000 raised at this year’s event to ensure funds continue to be available for our Family Workshops for Separated and Divorced Families.

After weathering the pandemic and providing more Family Workshop Program Tuition Reduction Scholarships than ever, Kids’ Turn San Diego is celebrating their 25th Anniversary of bringing peace to families who could no longer communicate without conflict. Through KTSD’s programs, children learn how to express their thoughts and feelings and parents gain insight about the impact of their words, actions and behaviors, thus reducing exposure to high parental conflict and helping children to have happier childhoods.

To learn more about how Kids’ Turn San Diego is making a difference for separated and divorced families, go to www.kidsturnsd.org.

Melissa Chalmers, Cindy Grossman, RaStan Sewitch, Joe Kievit, Russ Zinser chel Killion

Bryan Devore and Debbi Green

Pat Wade, Cindy Grossman, Stan Sewitch

Alex Perzaz and Talia Webster

Wayne Dunlap, Beatrice Snider, Pat Dunlap

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David Cordero and Yulian Cordero

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VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9 | September-October, 2021

Are Your Relationships More Painful Than Positive?

Forget the spooky and scary ambiance of the Halloween season, a more frightening occurrence is the truth that underneath almost every relationship problem, there is a learning-to-love-yourself problem.

Lack of self-love (in you, your partner, or both), can lead to bickering, fighting, distance, money problems, intimacy issues, criticism, blame - you name it.

As I’ve mentioned before, there’s a lot of fluff about self-love these days. It’s one of those cliches that’s now become a tagline or t-shirt. I’m not talking about the superficial concept replete with catchphrases and quick fixes. I’m referring to an elemental understanding of your worth and contribution that is your birthright.

That’s why, whenever I work with a couple, I start with teaching them how to love themselves first.

Once that piece is taken care of, the relationship often falls right into place.

Insecurity Is About Fear Let’s not withhold what is one of the most crucial truths about Love and life: Insecurity is about fear, and nowhere is this more common than in romantic relationship.

As soon as you start liking somebody, there is an almost instantaneous opposite feeling that emerges: fear.

What if this person doesn’t like me in return?

What if I say or do something that might give this person the wrong idea about me?

What if I miss my chance to say and do just the right thing?

And then, as you fall in love, the stakes get higher. The more you invest of yourself, the higher the fear climbs.

What if I get all wrapped up in this relationship and then it all comes crashing down?

Everybody Is At Least A Little Insecure If a partner has ever told you you’re insecure, well guess what? He or she isn’t off the hook.

That’s because fear is a fundamental human emotion, and the desire to be loved is also fairly

universal around the globe.

All of us yearn to love and be loved, so as soon as we have the inkling that we’ve met “someone” and that a romantic relationship is possible - in creeps the icky shadow of fear.

Feeling insecure isn’t entirely a bad thing: Fear lets you know that something is out of harmony and needs to be looked at and that something can be learned when you welcome and get curious about your fear.

Problems happen when insecurity gets the better of you.

How To Tell If Insecurity Is Ruining Your Relationships You’ll know insecurity is out of hand if you tend to become hypervigilant in relationships – especially an intimate relationship.

You’ll scan your partner for any sign that he’s not paying enough attention to you. You’ll drive yourself crazy after you catch them chatting with a attractive guest at a party.

No matter how many times your partner tells you they love you, it’s never enough.

You may get engaged, buy a house, get married, and have children, but there’s always this nagging feeling within you that your partner doesn’t really love you as much as you want to be loved.

You might even start to imagine that maybe they’re with you just out of duty, commitment, or habit.

You look for reasons why your partner isn’t happy with you - if he becomes interested in a new hobby, you think it’s because he’s just looking for an excuse to spend time away from you.

If she tells you about a new partner who just joined her firm, you’ll Google him and start to wonder if she might find him more attractive.

None of these things are probably true, but this is: You’re Actually Creating The Very Situation You Fear Whenever you are operating out of fear like this, you push away love.

Excessive fear (in this case appearing as insecurity), makes it practically impossible to generate the good, positive experiences that promote romance and connection.

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The more you worry that your partner will leave, the more tension is created. Instead of being loved, your partner may experience watched, oppressed, and inadequate.

By questioning your partner’s allegiance, you’re also sending the message that you don’t trust them to love you.

They may try to appease you and demonstrate just how much they love you, but if it’s never enough, this becomes a tiring way to live.

And before long, your worst nightmare comes true - your partner wants to leave.

The Only Cure For Big Insecurity When insecurity is steering your relationships, you can be sure of one thing: YOU don’t love you.

On the surface, it may seem that insecurity is about how you relate to other people, but it’s really about how you relate to yourself.

If you don’t truly believe you are lovable exactly as you are, then you won’t give love to yourself first.

You’re rejecting your core self, and because of this fundamental discrepancy, you’ll automatically fear rejection by other people.

Healthy long-term relationships require vulnerability, conflict, recommitment and reverence.

Insecurity will commonly prevent the necessary depth of vulnerability (to unveil yourself enough to enjoy a profound connection) and the willingness to have conflict (because you’re too scared to possibly make waves and lose your partner).

So, until you commit to loving yourself and moving through your fear - and not abandoning yourself you will never be fully happy in any relationship – especially an intimate relationship.

The way to put an end to this debilitating predicament is to completely take the focus off your romantic partner and put it squarely on yourself.

You must, above all else, commit to loving yourself first - no matter who sticks around.

The beautiful irony is that as soon as you do this, you discover that other people can’t get enough of @LocalUmbrellaMedia

23

you.

The Fastest Path To A Secure Relationship After working with hundreds of singles and couples over the past several years, I’ve seen time and again that the fastest path to a secure relationship is to learn to love yourself first.

Once you learn to love yourself, life and love become much easier.

Your energy is no longer wrapped up in trying to avoid being rejected or hurt. It’s incredibly liberating.

Your relationships unfold with delightful spontaneity and fun.

Your partner’s love is like a wonderful bonus to your already fulfilling life - rather than this thing you have to grab on to for dear life.

Learning to love yourself is a powerhouse of a practice - and one that I’ve been guiding for decades that I created the Soul Expansion: Conscious Loving and Living program.

We must learn to consciously love before we can truly consciously live.

This process distills everything within Soul Expansion into the most effective path to transformation.

You’ll learn how to isolate the fears, doubts, and lack of self-acceptance that have led you down the dark path of insecurity - and are therefore keeping you from being truly happy in love.

It cuts right to the chase and tackles insecurity head-on.

You are cordially invited to the rest of your life! Take the next step towards Soul Expansion with the gift of a Complimentary Session or call (619) 832-2750.

Learn how this innovative practice bypasses common bottlenecks faster than traditional therapy to celebrate your purpose with clarity, awareness, and personal strength!

Daniel Allen is a writer, speaker, and spiritual & emotional counselor on the subject of relationships (including the one we hold with ourselves), and an advocate for Love and raising consciousness. For more information or article suggestions please visit www.

SoulExpansion.com, email info@ SoulExpansion.com or call (619) 8322750.

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September-October, 2021 | VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 9

FEATURED LISTINGS

COMING SOON

2604 5th Avenue, #501, San Diego – Bankers Hill 41 West 2bd/2ba | 1,600 sq ft | Listed For $1,495,000

4628 Alma Place, San Diego – El Cerrito 3+1br/3ba | 1,283 sq ft | Listed between $889,000 - $949,000

Enjoy the ultimate urban, luxury lifestyle at 41West. Within walking distance to restaurants and Balboa Park. This sunny, northeast corner residence boasts park views and a glorious blend of modern design and timeless interior features.

Expansive Nanawall doors bring the outside in, opening onto a spacious terrace overlooking the 5th Avenue corridor. The deliciously appointed kitchen is complete with Miele appliances, Italian cabinetry, and quartz countertops.

Soaring 10-foot ceilings in the main rooms emphasize the open living spaces.

The well-thought-out floor plan includes split bedrooms/baths and a full-size washer/dryer. The primary bedroom has a large walk-in closet and a spa-like bath w/6-foot tub, shower, and dual vanities. Come see what makes 41 West a truly remarkable Bankers Hill living experience!

Relax in the beauty of dazzling sunset and canyon views from this upgradedturnkey home. Perched at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in lovely El Cerrito, this home is close to shopping, restaurants and freeways, yet affords a lush and luxurious oasis retreat. The master bedroom and gourmet kitchen, flow onto an expansive deck, overlooking greenery, gardens, fruit trees and back-yard canyon. This picturesque space is idyllic for outdoor dining or gathering with friends and family for a night under the stars. A 1br/1ba studio, with private entrance, is located on the lower terrace-level and is an added bonus for anyone looking for a home office, art / exercise studio or guest suite. This home is a must-see gem!

PENDING

4285 Goldfinch St., Mission Hills 5,750 sq ft lot (approx.) SDP & NDP Issued Listed For $589,000

3658 – 3660 Cherokee Ave., San Diego Cherokee Point 2 Units – 3bd/1ba & 2bd/2ba | 950 & 651 sq ft | Built In 1928 Listed For $997,000

Stop the car!…because…well really you need to stop the car & get out of the car to see AND truly take in the majesty of this panoramic canyon building home site. After more than 3 painstaking years of the City Planning process, a Neighborhood Development Permit (NDP) & Site Development Permit (SDP) have been issued for this lot. These permits grant permission to design a 2,894 primary dwelling, 1,097 ADU & 418sf garage.

Experience Cherokee Point and a quintessential Craftsman 2 on 1! Welcome home to a neighborhood within THE neighborhood! Located in Greater North Park, Cherokee Point has been a popular landing spot for so many urban seekers. This property features TWO outstanding and remodeled homes. Each home has a private set up with their own individual yards and off-street parking. The opportunities are endless as this is an ideal owner-occupied property or investment.

JUST SOLD

JUST SOLD

JUST SOLD

4223 Middlesex Drive, San Diego Kensington | 3bd/1ba 1,384 sq ft | Built in 1928 Listed for $1,380,000

1437 Robinson, San Diego Hillcrest 2bd/2.5ba 1,073 sq ft | Built in 1999 Listed for $670,000

4209 Madison, San Diego Kensington | 4bd/2.5ba 2846 sq ft | Built in 1926 Listed for $1,100,000

JUST SOLD

JUST SOLD

JUST SOLD

1068 Cypress Ave - San Diego Mission Hils | 3bd /3.ba 2,125 sq ft | Built in 1933 Listed for $,1959,000

2850 Cedar St - San Diego South Park | 3bd /2ba 2,284 sq ft | Built in 1910 Listed for $1,829,000

2814 Albatross St. Bankers Hills | 2br/3ba 1,106 sq ft | Built in 1943 Listed for $995,000

Call us today for a no-obligation Home Value Consultation. Who you work with matters, and we KNOW this neighborhood! www.KenPecusGroup.com.

Ken Pecus Realtor®

Your Real Estate Experts in Kensington!

Metro Mission Hills Resident

(619) 512-7700

ken@kenpecus.com DRE# 01056969

Realtor®

Kensington Resident and Homeowner

(619) 977-8419 LOCAL NEWS | LocalUmbrellaNews.com

Kevin Eads

kevin@kevineads.com

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