AGING
EMPATHY AND ENTITLEMENT THAT'S SO CHEESY PATIO PERK-UP
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According to the U.S. Census Bureau, all baby boomers will be older than 65 by 2030. At that time, one in every five U.S. residents is expected to be at retirement age. So the data is clear, our older population is on the rise.
As life expectancy increases and this rapidly expanding demographic grows, what influences how successfully they’ll age? San Diego Oasis President and CEO Simona Valanciute asks, "What makes one older person energetic and vivacious and another frail and lackluster about living? What’s the secret sauce?”
While longevity can be hereditary, aging is a multifactorial process heavily influenced by things we can control, like environment and lifestyle. Successful aging combines three components: stimulating cognitive function, maintaining physical health, and creating strong social relationships.
Since 1987, San Diego Oasis has promoted successful aging for adults aged 50+ by applying these exact three principles. Through its evidencebased programs designed to empower, engage, and enhance its members' lives, the award-winning nonprofit has helped thousands of older adults on their path to healthy longevity.
Maintaining good cognitive health by keeping the mind sharp, active, and alert is the first component of healthy aging. The opportunities to learn are limitless
at San Diego Oasis. While there are no certifications or degrees, the organization is essential in operating a university for adults who are lifelong learners, strictly for the joy of it.
“We strive to make sure everyone finds something that interests them,” Simona said. Offering over 3,000 classes annually, San Diego Oasis members are delighted with subjects in every imaginable area: arts, business, technology education, exercise, health and wellness, history, music, theater, language, personal enrichment, and so much more.
Even with limited mobility, exercise helps avoid disease and disability and is essential to maintaining physical health while aging. San Diego Oasis offers physical education and fitness classes all day, every day. In addition to familiar classes like tai chi, meditation, and yoga, members are also offered more unusual ways to stay active. “We try to offer a lot of choices to create joy and meet the objective of lifelong learning,” Simona said. We have classes that are just really fun, too, like ballet for seniors, cardio drumming, and international dancing.”
Physical health isn’t just about physical activity, either. Oasis provides numerous educational classes and workshops on various health topics like diet and nutrition, pain and stress management, fall prevention, and more.
Cultivating a sense of purpose through meaningful social and community interactions is
A Neuroscientist Explores the Power and Potential of Our Lives
by Daniel J. Levitin“Don’t retire. Don’t stop being engaged with meaningful work. Look forward. Don’t look back. (Reminiscing doesn’t promote health.) Exercise. Get your heart rate going, preferably in nature. Embrace a moderated lifestyle with healthy practices. Keep your social circle exciting and new. Spend time with people younger than you. See your doctor regularly, but not obsessively. Don’t consider yourself old (other than taking prudent precautions). Appreciate your cognitive strengths— pattern recognition, crystallized intelligence, wisdom, and accumulated knowledge. Promote cognitive health through experiential learning: traveling, spending time with grandchildren, and immersing yourself in new activities and situations. Do new things.”
often overlooked as a part of healthy aging. “We need to feel needed and that we belong,” Simona explained. “Your brain is okay, your body is fine, but we need a meaningful purpose that gets us out of bed in the morning.”
Volunteering and getting involved in the community is a simple approach to social engagement that positively impacts longevity. In addition, having a social network can protect against feelings of loneliness and social isolation, two conditions often seen in older age.
San Diego Oasis offers a unique opportunity for its members to connect and engage with the community through its many intergenerational programs. For example, through the Oasis Intergenerational Tutoring program, volunteers, nearby elementary schools, and San Diego Oasis work together to help children build reading skills, self-esteem, and positive attitudes toward learning.
“Who is the winner in that intergenerational scenario?” Simona asked. “Everyone! Everyone comes out a winner. Intergenerational experiences are not a one-way street. It’s benefiting both generations by connecting them on meaningful work.”
As the leader in healthy longevity for over 35 years, San Diego Oasis has proven valuable in its La Mesa and Escondido communities. To better serve the rapidly growing senior population, the organization is excited to expand with its Rancho Bernardo location opening in June.
The two-story, 20,000-square-foot facility boasts to be the largest, most comprehensive center of excellence for older adults and intergenerational programs with many opportunities its current members have grown to love.
The Rancho Bernardo location will also integrate new and cutting-edge offerings for members. A demonstration kitchen for hands-on experience in cooking creations, a 400-person lecture hall for speakers and events, a peaceful Zen-like outdoor patio, an extralarge game room, and a state-of-the-art innovation center to expand on technology education will all be offered.
Simona likened Oasis’ growth to that of the YMCA. “We didn’t have a YMCA in every community serving young families and children, but we decided it’s important, and now we do.” She hopes Oasis will continue to serve our country’s growing aging population similarly.
“The data is so clear,” Simona said. “We’re tripling the demographic of our senior population. We’re all going to be older adults one day. We all need to be working together and sharing knowledge if we are going to serve older adults in the way that they need to be served. If we don’t set up the landscape to be a friendly one, then it’s not going to be there.”
“If I ruled the world, I’d instruct every doctor to prescribe Oasis,” Simona laughed. “If you have a patient who is not thriving or not stimulated enough, tell them they need to go to Oasis,” she chuckled. “I don’t care what you do there; you just need to do something.” SLM
Learn more:
Experience the pillars of successful aging at one of San Diego Oasis’ three facilities: La Mesa, Escondido, and Rancho Bernardo. Learn more at SanDiegoOasis.org
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Soon, students from all corners of the playground gather around the smiling officer wearing a crisp blue uniform. The San Diego Harbor Police Foundation (SDHPF) and officers with the Port of San Diego Harbor Police regularly visit the campus, where 90% of students and their families live below the poverty line, and nearly 40% sleep in nearby shelters or in cars. Relationships blossom with outings such as Fish with a Cop, and Shop with a Cop during the holidays. “We’ve built an ongoing, positive relationship with the kids because we want them to know that the community cares about them and their success in school,” said Jeff Wohler, President and CEO of SDHPF.
In addition to contributing to a food pantry, the foundation runs an after school pro-gram called Teachers RUL (Relationship, Unity, Love), its proactive response to student reading comprehension scores that nose-dived during the pandemic. Two afternoons a week volunteers come to campus with healthy snacks and an eagerness to help students improve their reading skills. The foundation recently hosted a recognition ceremony for 17 students who earned straight As. Family members and teachers cheered as each student received a certificate and $50 with the message that hard work and good grades can lead to scholarships and opportunities for a bright future. The foundation has also replaced broken down furniture in four classrooms for students with special needs. Research shows that wiggle chairs, therapy rockers and marker board tables promote learning.
SDHPF’s support of under-served youth is just one of three pillars that define a wide breadth of work in the community. The foundation commits significant resources to combating human trafficking in San Diego, the second largest crime behind drug trafficking. The foundation cares deeply about victims of this horrific crime, and as a result created in depth training called ‘Help Stop Human Trafficking’ for San Diego’s tourism industry. Employees at hotels and motels, the airport, and restaurants and bars take the free training online to learn how to spot potential incidents of human trafficking and alert authorities. A team of experts, including a Survivor who was trafficked at age 14, facilitates the training on-site at local tourism businesses. Sycuan Casino held two sessions for its security staff and shortly after invited the team back to train additional frontline employees. “We are making efforts on our property, with the help of the San Diego Harbor Police Foundation, to play an active role in mitigating these crimes,” said Cody Martinez, Chairman of the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation.
The foundation will soon unveil a ‘soft interview room’ at San Diego International Airport. The calming decor and comfortable furniture create a soothing space where officers can assist victims who have experienced abuse or trauma. The foundation also paid for 14 officers to undergo specialized training on how to handle these sensitive cases. The foundation’s third pillar focuses on officer wellness, at a time when police agencies are struggling to fill positions and build morale. The foundation steps in whenever it sees a need: Delivering thousands of masks during the pandemic, and hundreds of meals and snacks during high-intensity events and extended shifts. The foundation has revamped the officers’ lounge, called the ‘Collision Space,’ with fresh paint and new furniture, and a high-end coffee vending machine rivals Starbucks with its wide range of hot beverage selections - all free to officers and staff. Officers who workout before or after their shifts are enjoying a new weight system, and rousing competitions at the new ping pong table. “We support individual officers as well, as they deal with the stress of the job. Our men and women in uniform, and dispatchers come first,” Wohler says. SLM
SDHPF was founded in 2019 by Wohler and former Port of San Diego Harbor Police Chief Mark Stainbrook.
“Hi, Officer Marston,” a little boy shouts as he hangs on the monkey bars at Perkins K-8 School in Barrio Logan.
Shortly after opening their doors five years ago, she was joined in the business by her daughter, Taylor Colvey, who holds a master’s in counseling, is a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach, and has her National Board Certification through the Board of Medical Examiners. Taylor's mission is to enhance mind and body resilience, empowering individuals to fulfill their life's purpose free from pain and ailments.
With human bodies consisting primarily of water, it is common knowledge that hydration is key, but not all water is equal. Through filtration and processing, much of the water consumed worldwide is filled with chemicals and devoid of the minerals and atoms needed to achieve our full health potential. Colvey has embraced water as the fundamental element behind her enterprise and the key to unlocking vitality and well-being for her clients.
Leonardo da Vinci said, "Water is the driving force of all nature.” Robin Colvey, the founder of Lifetime Water in Solana Beach, agrees and has built a thriving business and empowered a transformative wellness journey for numerous individuals by recognizing the profound healing potential of water—but it isn’t as simple as it sounds.
“Preventative health starts with water. It’s the simplest thing,” Colvey explains, “and preventative health and opening yourself up to other less traditional opportunities honors the body and improves your health.”
In simple terms, hydrogen-enriched water refers to water infused with molecular hydrogen gas. Originating from its success in Japanese healthcare, it has garnered significant attention in recent years due to its vast health benefits, which include anti-inflammatory properties, powerful antioxidants, neuroprotective effects for optimal brain health, cardiovascular benefits, and improved athletic performance and recovery.
For individuals ready to take the next steps on their health and wellness path, you can book a consultation over the phone, online, or come into their Solana Beach location to determine which services are best for you and your budget. Colvey aims to keep her services accessible and affordable for all, not merely for those who can afford to treat their health as a luxury. “My goal is to bring people here to find natural ways to support their body and health,” she says.
Lifetime Water’s array of services empowers people who want to take ownership of their health more holistically and includes nutritional counseling, acupuncture, liver support and cleansing, and more. But, beyond the water that serves as the foundation of their services, there are a few other key things to try.
One of their distinctive services is Vibragenics, which combines whole-body vibration and cell-exciting sonic waves to profoundly recharge every cell in your body during each session. The electrical potential of your cells serves as a vital indicator of your overall health and longevity. A decrease in cellular charge is closely associated with accelerated bodily decline. By utilizing Vibragenics, clients can actively address this aspect and enhance the well-being of cells.
Another featured service is BrainTap, an innovative solution to address the common challenges caused by an imbalanced brain. BrainTap incorporates a range of techniques that effectively restore equilibrium to your brain, promoting optimal performance for both your mind and body. With its proprietary technology, this method guides your brain through various brainwave states, inducing deep relaxation. As a result, you experience an immediate surge in energy while training your brain to consistently operate at its highest potential. Finally, Nucleogenics determines your precise nutritional requirements through DNA testing and then creates a unique supplement that will benefit your individual health needs. Robin tells her clients, “Your DNA is not your destiny.”
With Lifetime Water, your wellness journey becomes an opportunity to transform your life. By taking control of your health and exploring the services and programs they offer, you can optimize your well-being and embrace a life of vitality, purpose, and resilience. Your wellness is within your reach, and Lifetime Water is there to guide you toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. SLM
As Owner and Founder of Lifetime Water, Colvey also holds titles such as Functional Nutrition Counselor, San Diego Master Gardener, Hydration Expert, and Health Advocate. After watching family members suffer from chronic pain and devastating illness, Colvey knew there had to be a better way to live and achieve a healthier and longer-lasting life. Decades of relentless research led her to discover a 44-year-old Japanese company called Enagic International that produces medicalgrade, hydrogen-rich, alkaline water. After a long career as a consultant, Colvey established Lifetime Water to bring optimized health services to the San Diego area.
“WATER EXPANDS THE GLOBE, TOUCHES EVERY PERSON DAILY, AND IS THE CRITICAL CORE OF ALL HEALTH.”
-LIFETIME WATER
"What a time to be alive!” You could read this phrase two different ways – with unbridled enthusiasm, marveling at the world around us, or with growing disbelief and dismay. In recent years, we’ve seen an uncomfortable lack of empathy emerge, coupled with a growing sense of entitlement. We see it online; we’ve seen it in person – it’s not a new problem, but it has felt exacerbated in recent years. Living in a time of instant communication and unprecedented access to each other has evolved into almost an expectation of having 24-hour access to people. And, with so much of our lives unfolding over social media, we’ve seen a major disconnect in recognizing that there are actual human beings
with feelings on the other side of that screen. This has also translated to in-person interactions – we saw this at every level over the last few years.
W hat a time to be alive
For our children, this technology-driven world that seems to be in a state of constant upheaval is all they’ve ever known. As adults, it’s easy to get mired down in the hard things and feel like things will never change, but there’s hope to be found in the younger generations, and giving them the tools to
make the world a better place is our job. Did you know that –despite what we’ve long thought – kids are not born selfish?
University of Michigan researcher, Felix Warneken spent 17 years studying toddlers, and he learned that kids display altruistic behaviors from a very young age.
“What we’ve found is kids have a spontaneous biologically based tendency to care about others,” he told HuffPost. “They help early on, and they do that spontaneously without being asked, offered a reward, or observed by their parents. This
em·pa·thy the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.
en·ti·tle·ment the belief that one is inherently deserving of privileges or special treatment.
makes us believe that human nature is not purely selfish, but we’re equipped with some altruistic inclinations that can be elicited.”1
So, if selfishness isn’t innate, how do we cultivate empathy in our children while recognizing and eliminating entitlement issues? (Spoiler alert: in our kids and ourselves.) For that, we talked with dual licensed therapist Carrie Reeves, LCPC, LAC, who is certified as a trauma specialist and largely works with clients starting at age 7, addressing trauma response and anxiety-related struggles. Carrie is also the proud mom of a 21-month-old and licensed foster parent, along with her husband.
When talking about entitlement, we have a societal tendency to throw younger generations under the bus, but let’s not forget to turn the mirror on ourselves and examine our own tendencies (and complicity in creating these issues). We asked Carrie what parents need to recognize both in themselves and their children regarding entitlement. First, she says, we must check our Internal Motivation. “If we are attempting to parent the heart and not simply external behaviors, it is important to start with assessing our own motivations and desires.”
Example: Most parents desire a well-behaved child to some extent, but if I am demanding certain actions from a place of self-pride, I may be missing the mark. After all, wanting my own way for my sake without regard for others sounds like entitlement to me. The better I am at noticing when I expect special treatment or for things to go my way, regardless of the cost, the clearer it will be for me to ascertain these qualities in my children.
Second, Carrie advises us to check our Behavioral Responses. “If I or my child is tempted to lash out at others when an expectation is not met, there may be a struggle with entitlement.” For example, if our child earns a poor grade in school, who are we holding accountable? Our
child or their teacher? When we or our child has an issue with someone(s), are we immediately playing the blame game, or are we examining our/their role in the situation?
Carrie notes that if we cannot move past comparing others’ experiences to our own, it might signify that we are struggling with entitlement. “This isn’t to say,” she clarifies, that “there is not an initial response of frustration, but do we have the tools to move through that felt frustration and differentiate between authentic need and entitled expectation?”
Self-check, as parents, how might we have inadvertently encouraged entitled behavior? Carrie highlights:
1. OVER-GUIDANCE/CONTROL – When parents struggle to allow their child to age-appropriately resolve conflict with peers, independent of parental intervention.
Carrie explains that she’s not saying there is no room for parental involvement and engagement with your child is vital, but “allowing them space to process and problem solve within the safety of your presence can provide more long-lasting tools than solving a child’s interpersonal issue for them.”
2. MODELING ENTITLEMENT – If my interactions with coworkers, family members, and friends indicate that my desires rank above any other values and goals, that’s showing my child that to reach your goals, you needn’t take others into consideration.
3. LACK OF EMPATHY IN PARENTING – By failing to display empathy for my child’s experience, I am actively ignoring some of my child’s needs. When our needs are not being met, we frequently develop maladaptive ways of attempting to meet them (such as demanding they be met at all costs to anyone else around us) and/or confusing a need with a want.
4. INCONSISTENT PARENTING – “We all do it,” Carrie reassures, “so let’s normalize that.” But let’s also recognize that when we draw a boundary and then give in because we’re tired or don’t want to deal with big behaviors, we encourage entitlement.
1 Kids Are Not Born Selfish. Here's How To Keep Them That Way. HuffPost Life
Though Carrie tells us that studies have shown that children are incapable of genuine empathy before age 7, she believes that empathy manifests itself differently depending on the stage of development. In short, it’s never too early to start developing our child’s emotional intelligence.
So, how do we get the empathy ball rolling?
f Start with the child’s feelings.
Carrie notes that somewhere along the way, there has been an “inadvertent communication that feelings are bad or unacceptable.” As adults, we have this tendency to hold kids to a higher standard – we aren’t as accepting of the fact that kids also have bad moods or have a touch of the blues, for whatever reason. It stands to reason, says
Carrie, that if we hold onto the belief of feelings being bad/unacceptable, then “I am more likely to reject/ ignore feelings in both myself, and others.”
As a parent, we must normalize conversation around emotions. Carrie suggests practicing mindbody exercises like body scans and yoga, limiting screen time, and talking about what to do with feelings when they come. Also, encourage gratification delay and talk about the gifts that come from waiting and sitting in discomfort.
Ultimately, says Carrie, “When I am ready to be aware of how my actions and desires impact those around me, I am empowered to see more than my want or need in isolation. It tempers my desire and alters my perspective.” SLM
Who knew two little words could strike such a chord in one's heart and create epiphanous realizations? In June, comedian, author, and "recovering pessimist," Kristina Kuzmic posted a video on TikTok sharing how these two little words, "Right now," have made such a huge difference in her life. She said,
Whenever there's something really frustrating or heavy or sad or stressful in my life, I add 'right now' to that thing that's frustrating me now. So, for example, I'm not getting enough sleep, right now. My kid is struggling, right now. My toddler is stripping themselves naked in public places and throwing massive tantrums, right now. My teenager hates me, right now. This grief I'm feeling is so heavy that I can't even get out of bed, right now. What that right now does at the end of the sentence is it takes away the permanence; it reminds you that life is a string of phases; a bad year or two or five does not equal a bad life; it equals a bad year or two or five. You're not stuck; keep moving forward.
Life truly is a string of phases, yet it can feel like that phase is never-ending when we're in the thick of things. Like some kind of Groundhog Day hell loop. Intellectually, we know that
these hard things aren't going to last forever but giving ourselves this "right now" shift in perspective can give our brains a major break because, as Kuzmic said, it takes away the permanence. It's a mindset that can make a difference in every aspect of our lives.
Let's dial back the immensity of this statement and apply it to something as "simple" as getting through your workout. Or, heck, making the choice to take one step forward and start said workout. As several of the trainers in the fitness app I use like to say, "Anyone can do anything for 30 seconds." This is them talking us through whatever exercise in the circuit they know we're absolutely complaining about from the other side of our screens. If we zero in on manageable objectives, we can accomplish so much.
It's like in parenting when we've got a picky or reluctant eater, or your kid is facing the messiest bedroom ever, or the project to end all projects, or has a plethora of college applications to complete. We help them, not by focusing on the bigger picture, but by breaking it down – one bite at a time, one task at a time, into manageable pieces. These examples, though, have a very vivid light at the end of the tunnel; it's perhaps easier to apply the right now mindset to these ideas. We can recognize that each phase of life comes with its own unique set of challenges – if only we knew then what
we know now, right? Even for things like middle school that absolutely come with a finite set of days, it can feel endless. When our kid is struggling or hurting, when it feels like our hearts are broken into a million pieces, it's all too easy for our brains to spiral and feel stuck in a false permanence. And so, we fight for the truth of those two perspective-shifting words – this is a hard thing, right now, and we will get through it.
Let's take a moment to also acknowledge the things that maybe don't have a distinct or obvious end in sight; rather, it's something that we continue to move through. Kuzmic mentions grief. There are some experiences in life that never fully stop aching, but the severity of our grief or anger or other BIG emotion, blessedly, does not consistently stay at a 10 forever; it ebbs, and it flows. So maybe it feels impossible right now, but it won't always. Right Now for these kinds of things can offer us a much-needed life raft when we feel in danger of the water overwhelming.
Finally, it's important that we don't weaponize these two precious words. They are not meant to minimize what you or someone else is going through; rather, it is saying, look, there is light at the end of the tunnel. It is fighting for a mindset that says, I know this won't last forever. These two words are not a magic wand; they don't miraculously make things all better, but they provide light. And hope. SLM
Do you love cheese? I love cheese!
From the humble mozzarella to pungent Roquefort, from spicy Pepper Jack to mild Manchego, from salty feta to silky smooth mascarpone, I have not met a cheese I did not like. Cheese fills essential spaces on an appetizer board, it livens up dishes that could otherwise fall slightly bland, it enriches desserts, and it wraps up meals, French-style, leaving us with a sense of delight and satisfaction that only the other, highly-addictive, fellow sugar can bring to the table.
There is cheese so mild and delicate that you wouldn't know its presence were it not for the velvety quality it adds to the dish it is mixed in. Then there is strong and decisive cheese that leaves no room for interpretation. It boldly asserts, "I am here to be enjoyed, and you better not ignore me!" And of course, there is cheese that plays well with others, obviously present but not aggressive. Whatever your pleasure, there is a cheese for that.
Take, for example, potatoes. They're good, aren't they? Fried, mashed, baked, they hold their own pretty well. However, have you thought of adding cheese to them? A humble side of mashed potatoes is rarely the star of the show, being there as an extra rather than the main character. Add some savory cheese, and the plot changes, as all of a sudden, they can hold their own beautifully. The French even have a name for that type of dish: purée aligot, which is a wonderful concoction of mashed potatoes stirred with a cheese that melts well, such as Comté, Emmental, Gruyère, or mozzarella. The consistency is smooth and
stretchy, like a match made in heaven between mashed potatoes and buttery, rich fondue. Ski chalet optional.
How about rice? Not that exciting on its own, is it? Like most starchy staples, what makes it interesting is the ingredients it partners with. Yes, mushrooms, beans, fish, or meat can all improve the lowly grain. Cheese, however, will take it to a whole new level. Try a creamy risotto laced with Asiago or Gorgonzola, or better yet, attempt to make the chubby balls of happiness called arancini. Born on the sunny shores of Sicily, these are scoops of risotto that are stuffed traditionally with caciocavallo cheese. It is difficult to find outside of Italy. It can be replaced successfully with a combination of Parmigiano Reggiano (called parmesan on this side of the Atlantic) and Pecorino Romano. If you wish to be extra naughty, you can add a bit of meaty ragù to the cheese filling for added umami benefit.
And seafood? Pretty good as it is, you might say, and that is true. Until you happen to travel to the South of France and see, for example, Camembert mussels on the menu, it is really hard to look back after that and be content with the ubiquitous marinières. The melted Camembert sinks through the half-opened shells and coats the mollusks, imparting a voluptuousness to the dish that lingers long after the meal is over.
Are you tempted yet to try a couple of easy cheesy recipes? We chose simple dishes that come together in 30 minutes or less that even the most inexperienced cooks can recreate perfectly.
INGREDIENTS:
4 pounds mussels, scrubbed and thoroughly washed
8 oz dry white wine
1 large yellow onion, sliced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 small bunch of parsley
2 cloves of garlic, diced
2 bay leaves
8 oz Camembert
2 oz cream
INGREDIENTS:
2 lbs russet potatoes
1 wheel of Boursin cheese (chives and shallots or garlic and herbs are two varieties that work well in this recipe)
½ stick butter
1 large garlic clove, peeled and crushed Salt and pepper to taste
Chives or green onion, optional
Servings: 4
Peel, cube, and boil the potatoes in salty water until soft. Drain and mash them with a potato masher or a fork. Add the butter, crushed garlic, and Boursin cheese and stir until the purée becomes creamy and stretchy. Top with chopped chives and serve hot. SLM
DIRECTIONS:
Start by cleaning the mussels carefully, removing any beards and traces of sand.
In a large skillet, add the sliced onion, celery, garlic, wine, and bay leaves Sauté until the onion becomes translucent. Add the mussels and cover with a lid. Cook for about 5 minutes, on high heat, until the shells open up. Discard any unopened mussels and set aside.
Dice the Camembert into small pieces. Add the cheese and the cream to a small saucepan and cook on low heat until it becomes homogenized. Pour the sauce over the mussels and return to heat for a few more minutes, making sure to coat the mussels uniformly with the sauce. Add chopped parsley for garnish and serve immediately with french fries or warm rustic bread. SLM
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 425 F.
Wash the potatoes thoroughly. Slice them in halves and coat them with coconut oil. Bake at 425 F for 30-45 min (oven temperatures might vary). When soft and slightly brown, remove from the oven and add the cayenne pepper. Top generously with Stilton and return to the oven for another minute or two, unless the cheese has melted. Garnish with flaky Maldon salt and roughly chopped parsley, and enjoy immediately. SLM
INGREDIENTS:
2 large sweet potatoes
4 oz Stilton
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon Maldon salt
1 small handful of parsley for garnishing
Servings: 4
A very comfortable but old-fashioned lounge set (see before photo) from a big box store had served us well for the better part of a decade. I felt it was time to get rid of the tired synthetic wicker look and mustard upholstery (to be completely honest, I was never a big fan of that color). Finding an equally comfortable set was time-consuming due to the vast number of options out there. I wanted a conversation set. And a rocker. And a comfortable chair to sink into. Preferably all in one, but I couldn't find such a thing. Instead of buying one large set to replace the old one, I opted for separate pieces that seemed to go well together. The starting point was a set of two dark gray comfy chairs for lounging around with a friend over a glass of wine. Then I added two metal rocking chairs with an even better outdoor life expectancy - not that it rains a lot during our hot Montana summers, but you never know. Their bright yellow color, contrasting nicely with the dark gray, still makes me smile every morning when I go out there with my first cup of coffee. They came in a set with a small, sculptural, yet sturdy, matching table that was just perfect for the limited space we have. The furnishing part was completed with the addition of an egg swing chair with a stand, which went on to become the perfect spot for snuggling in with a book.
Revamping an old-fashioned area of your home doesn't have to be a complicated and costly affair. Especially when it comes to outdoor spaces like decks or patios, a bit of research and creativity go a long way in designing something that feels new again.
A fresh coat of paint is a well-known trick to change the looks of any fixture. We applied the same idea to our main deck - a decade-old red cedar structure that had aged well with only honey-tinted coatings applied every other year. We gave it a brand-new look after sanding it and applying a couple of coats of dark charcoal paint. While it looked great right after finishing the paint job, there is one drawback we have to deal with constantly: water droplets will leave their marks every time it rains, and dust is much more visible on this charcoal background than it ever was on the honey-colored finish.
After the furniture was in place, I looked for an outdoor rug to complete the look. This was one of the most difficult choices, as I didn't have a specific print in mind. The black and white striped washable rug seemed to have the modern, contemporary look I was after. Easy to clean and light enough to pack and store on stormy days, it was a good choice that didn't disappoint.
No outdoor space is complete without some plants to accomplish a seamless transition into surrounding nature. I filled pots of different shapes, heights, and colors with bright annuals that don't require wintering and can be replaced easily if needed as the season progresses. Phlox (a butterfly magnet), cannas, and petunias bloom all summer long, while the giant coleus stands out with its vibrant burgundy and chartreuse leaves and tiny lavender flowers. For the shady side of the deck, I opted for a heartshaped caladium plant that requires almost no maintenance and retains its beauty for the length of the season. A large majestic palm tree fills an empty
A retractable blind was added for privacy. It also helps to provide shade in the morning, when the sun is at a low angle. The umbrella, leftover from the old furniture set, has yet to be replaced. I just haven't found the right one yet.
2:30pm. Petco Park. www.mlb.com/padres.
7:30pm. Corona Grandstand Stage at San Diego County Fair. Tickets include same-day admission to the Fair. www.sdfair.com/p/ what-to-do/grandstand.
8 Thursday
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Tampa Bay Rays. 6:40pm. Petco Park. www.mlb.com/ padres.
17 Saturday
delicious as the last. www.littleitalysd.com/ events/taste-of-little-italy.
9 Friday
San Diego County Fair June 7-July 4. Del Mar Fairgrounds. All Fair Admission & Parking tickets must be purchased online in advance. Free admission/Kids ages 12 and younger every Friday. https://www.sdfair. com/p/tickets.
Annual Switchfoot BRO-AM Beach Fest. 7am-5pm. Moonlight Beach, 252 5th St, Encinitas. Surf contests, free concert, numerous vendor booths. All to celebrate community and to raise awareness and funds for local youth organizations.
Balboa Park Twilight Concerts. 6:307:30pm. Spreckels Organ Pavilion, 1949 El Prado, San Diego. TU, W, TH, June 20-Aug 31. Detailed program TBA. https://balboapark. org.
World Lacrosse Men’s World Cup USA VS Canada. 7pm. June 21-July 1. worldlax2023. com.
21 Wednesday
Taste of Little Italy. 4-8pm, June 20 & 21. Piazza della Famiglia, 523 W Date St www. littleitalysd.com/events/taste-of-little-italy.
FIND
FAMILY FUN
OUT & ABOUT
KID ZONE
LET’S MOVE
CREATE IT
COOK THIS PERFORMANCES
T(W)EEN TIME
NIGHTLIFE
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
EDUCATIONAL
FAITH-BASED
LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE VIRTUAL EVENTS
1 Thursday Walk in ART 5-10pm. Mural Alley, 400 block of University Ave. Lively entertainment, art, food, and music.
Jazz on the Green! 6pm. Mission Bay Senior High School. 2475 Grand Ave, San Diego. Outdoor music festival features the school’s award winning jazz ensembles. Open to the public with a recommended donation of $10. BYO Seating. Tacos will be available from Tacos El Unico.
Annual Senior & Family Resource Fair. 9am-12pm. St. Paul's Conference Center in Bankers Hill, 2557 3rd Ave. Free. 40+ vendors in attendance ready to answer questions and an educational presentation on fall prevention. Register: www.eventbrite. com/e/2023-annual-senior-and-familyresource-fair-tickets-551603760697.
2 Friday
Southern California Beach Soccer Championships. June 2-4. Harbor Beach, Oceanside, CA. Features youth, adult amateur and adult pro women's and men's beach soccer as well as vendors, the BeSoCha Cantina and lots more!
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Chicago Cubs
6:40pm. Petco Park. hwww.mlb.com/padres.
3 Saturday
Southern California Beach Soccer Championships. June 2-4. Harbor Beach, Oceanside, CA.
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Chicago Cubs 7:10pm. Petco Park. www.mlb.com/padres.
18th Annual Space Day 10am-2pm. San Diego Air & Space Museum. Demonstrations, giveaways, and hands-on activities with local and national space industry experts.
4 Sunday Southern California Beach Soccer Championships. Harbor Beach, Oceanside.
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Chicago Cubs
5 Monday
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Chicago Cubs . 6:10pm. Petco Park. www.mlb.com/padres.
6 Tuesday
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Seattle Mariners. 6:40pm. Petco Park. www.mlb. com/padres.
7 Wednesday
San Diego County Fair June 7-July 4. Del Mar Fairgrounds. All Fair Admission & Parking tickets must be purchased online in advance. https://www.sdfair.com/p/tickets.
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Seattle Mariners. 1:10pm. Petco Park. www.mlb. com/padres.
Salsa Under the Stars with Manny Cepeda Orchestra . 6-9pm. 1st/3rd W. Carnitas Snack Shack, 1004 N Harbor Dr. Sit back and unwind to music from the Manny Cepeda Orchestra as he brings his best repertoire of Classic Salsa, Merengue, Cumbia, Bachata and Cuban Music.
We Own The Laughs: San Diego. 8pm. Mic Drop Comedy, 8878 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, Ste B. Ages 18+. Don’t miss current stars along with a few fresh faces in the world of comedy. https://weownthelaughs.com.
Toyota Summer Concert Series Train
View full event descriptions and stay up-to-date with our calendar and local events. Search for Simply Local Magazine in the app store or scan below to download today!
Street Food Fest 2023 . 5pm. 4090 University Ave. Live art, music, drinks, community, and street food as diverse as City Heights.
10 Saturday
Ocean Beach Makers Market Series 11am. 5083 Santa Monica Ave. Free admission. Shop 20 artists and makers, have some great food and experience amazing ocean views!
11 Sunday
Toyota Summer Concert Series La Adictiva . 7:30pm. Corona Grandstand Stage at San Diego County Fair. Tickets include same-day admission to the Fair. www.sdfair. com/p/what-to-do/grandstand.
12 Monday
13 Tuesday
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Cleveland Guardians. 6:40pm. Petco Park. www.mlb. com/padres.
14 Wednesday
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Cleveland Guardians. 6:40pm. Petco Park. www.mlb. com/padres.
Live Music | Rolo Tomassi. 7:30pm. House of Blues San Diego, 1055 5th Ave. Tickets: $20. Under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent/adult age 25+.
15 Thursday
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Cleveland Guardians. 5:40pm. Petco Park. www.mlb. com/padres.
Santee Summer Concerts | BETAMAXX. 6:30pm. Town Center Community Park, 550 Park Center Dr, Santee. Every TH June 15-Aug 17 (Except July 6). Free. Food Trucks on site. cityofsanteeca.gov/our-city/santeesummer-concerts.
16 Friday
San Diego Wooden Boat Festival. 9am5pm, SA; 9am-4pm, SU. Koehler Kraft Boat Yard, 2302 Shelter Island Dr. Live music, food, a variety of booths, activities for children, and a raffle. Many vessels will be open to the public for on board viewing. $10/ ages 16+, $5/ages 6-16. sdwoodenboatfestival. com.
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Tampa Bay Rays. 4:15pm. Petco Park. www.mlb.com/ padres.
CCA San Diego Apps & Taps Beer Festival. 4-8pm. San Diego Portuguese Hall, 2818 Avenida De Portugal. Price of admission includes food, beer, and a 1-year membership to CCA. https://ccacalifornia.org.
Toyota Summer Concert Series Lynard Skynyrd . 7:30pm. Corona Grandstand Stage at San Diego County Fair. Tickets include same-day admission to the Fair. www.sdfair. com/p/what-to-do/grandstand.
18 Sunday Father's Day
San Diego Wooden Boat Festival. 9am4pm, SU. Koehler Kraft Boat Yard, 2302 Shelter Island Dr. sdwoodenboatfestival.com.
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Tampa Bay Rays. 1:10pm. Petco Park. www.mlb.com/ padres.
Country on the Coast. 2:30pm. Waterfront Park, 1600 Pacific Hwy. Ages 21+. Expect to see some of the hottest names in country music taking the stage. From classic favorites to up-and-coming artists. Also includes: line dancing (and lessons), complimentary ferris wheel rides, and wine country. countryonthecoast.com.
Toyota Summer Concert Series Grupo Bronco . 7:30pm. Corona Grandstand Stage at San Diego County Fair. Tickets include same-day admission to the Fair. www.sdfair. com/p/what-to-do/grandstand.
19 Monday Juneteenth
20 Tuesday
Taste of Little Italy. 4-8pm, June 20 & 21. Piazza della Famiglia, 523 W Date St Make your way through 48-square-blocks sampling some of the best bites and sips our beautiful neighborhood has to offer. Each evening will showcase different restaurants, each just as
Salsa and Bachata Dancing. 7-11pm. Belmont Park Mission Beach. Salsa dance lesson, DJ Mo Lyon. $15 cover.
22 Thursday
Santee Summer Concerts | Cassie B Project. 6:30pm. Town Center Community Park, 550 Park Center Dr, Santee. Every TH June 15Aug 17 (Except July 6). cityofsanteeca.gov/ our-city/santee-summer-concerts.
Toyota Summer Concert Series Boyz II Men 7:30pm. Corona Grandstand Stage at San Diego County Fair. Tickets include same-day admission to the Fair. www.sdfair. com/p/what-to-do/grandstand.
23 Friday
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Washington Nationals. 6:40pm. Petco Park. www.mlb. com/padres.
24 Saturday
Ocean Beach Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off Festival. 10am-8pm. Free admission. Food, art, beachfront entertainment, shopping, and more. https://oceanbeachsandiego.com/
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Washington Nationals. 5:40pm. Petco Park. www.mlb. com/padres.
Oceanside Independence Day Parade Hometown Heroes . 10am. Starts in front of the 101 Cafe (Coast Highway at Wisconsin Avenue) and works its way north. www. mainstreetoceanside.com/independenceparade.
Toyota Summer Concert Series Stephen Marley with Hirie . 7:30pm. Corona Grandstand Stage at San Diego County Fair. Tickets include same-day admission to the Fair. www.sdfair.com/p/what-to-do/ grandstand.
25 Sunday
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Washington Nationals. 1:10pm. Petco Park. www.mlb. com/padres.
Scoop San Diego Ice Cream Festival . 124pm. 30th Street & North Park Way. Tastings from 20+ ice cream and gelato vendors. Proceeds benefit the San Diego Food Bank. Tickets: https://scoopsandiego.org.
Toyota Summer Concert Series Los Tigres del Norte . 7:30pm. Corona Grandstand Stage at San Diego County Fair. Tickets include same-day admission to the Fair. www.sdfair. com/p/what-to-do/grandstand.
26 Monday
27 Tuesday
Live Music Jonathan McReynolds. 8pm. House of Blues San Diego, 1055 5th Ave. Tickets: $25-$75. Under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent/adult age 25+.
28 Wednesday
Salsa Under the Stars with Manny Cepeda Orchestra . 6-9pm. 1st/3rd W. Carnitas Snack Shack, 1004 N Harbor Dr. Sit back and unwind to music from the Manny Cepeda Orchestra as he brings his best repertoire of Classic Salsa, Merengue, Cumbia, Bachata and Cuban Music.
29 Thursday
Santee Summer Concerts Band Overboard. 6:30pm. Town Center Community Park, 550 Park Center Dr, Santee. Every TH June 15-Aug 17 (Except July 6). cityofsanteeca.gov/our-city/santeesummer-concerts.
Toyota Summer Concert Series Randy Houser . 7:30pm. Corona Grandstand Stage at San Diego County Fair. Tickets include same-day admission to the Fair. www.sdfair. com/p/what-to-do/grandstand.
30 Friday
Live Music Gimme Gimme Disco 10pm. House of Blues San Diego, 1055 5th Ave. Tickets: $16.50-$31.50. Ages 18+.
1 Saturday
Toyota Summer Concert Series Alabama 7:30pm. Corona Grandstand Stage at San Diego County Fair. Tickets include same-day admission to the Fair. www.sdfair.com/p/ what-to-do/grandstand.
2 Sunday
Aretha: A Tribute. 7:30pm. The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park. Presented by San Diego Symphony. Broadway diva Capathia Jenkins and three-time Grammy® nominee Ryan Shaw light up The Rady Shell with all your favorite Aretha Franklin hits. theshell.org.
3 Monday
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Los Angeles
Angels. 6:40pm. Petco Park. hwww.mlb. com/padres.
Toyota Summer Concert Series | Switchfoot . 7:30pm. Corona Grandstand Stage at San Diego County Fair. Tickets include same-day admission to the Fair. www.sdfair.com/p/what-to-do/grandstand.
4 Tuesday Independence Day
That's a Wrap! San Diego County Fair Del Mar Fairgrounds. All Fair Admission & Parking tickets must be purchased online in advance. www.sdfair.com/p/tickets.
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Los Angeles Angels. 3:40pm. Petco Park. www.mlb.com/ padres.
Port of San Diego Big Bay Boom SoCal's biggest fireworks show. 9pm. Where to watch: Shelter Island, Harbor Island, North Embarcadero, Marina District, Coronado Ferry Landing, Boating/On the Water. Displayed from Four barges on San Diego Bay
Toyota Summer Concert Series Fireworks Spectacular . 9pm. Corona Grandstands at San Diego County Fair. Avoid the crowds and secure your seat for the grand finale for the San Diego County Fair and the celebration of the U.S.A.! www.sdfair.com/p/what-to-do/ grandstand.
5 Wednesday
MLB: San Diego Padres VS Los Angeles Angels. 5:40pm. Petco Park. www.mlb.com/ padres.
Salsa Under the Stars with Manny Cepeda Orchestra 6-9pm. 1st/3rd W. Carnitas Snack Shack, 1004 N Harbor Dr. Sit back and unwind to music from the Manny Cepeda Orchestra as he brings his best repertoire of Classic Salsa, Merengue, Cumbia, Bachata and Cuban Music.
6 Thursday Walk in ART 5-10pm. Mural Alley, 400 block of University Ave. Lively entertainment, art, food, and music.
7 Friday
MLB: San Diego Padres VS New York Mets. 6:40pm. Petco Park. www.mlb.com/padres.
Live Music Fleetwood MAX with Faux Fighters. 8pm. The Holding Company, 5046 Newport Ave. Get ready to dance the night away!
8 Saturday San Diego Cars and Coffee. 9-11am. Elite Finish, 8820 Kenamar Dr. Coffee, donuts, live DJ. Open to all respectful Auto & Moto enthusiasts. All makes & models welcome. Family & dog friendly.
Ocean Beach Makers Market Series 11am. 5083 Santa Monica Ave. Free admission.
Shop 20 artists and makers, have some great food and experience amazing ocean views!
MLB: San Diego Padres VS New York Mets.
7:10pm. Petco Park. www.mlb.com/padres.
How to Train Your Dragon in Concert.
7:30pm. The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park. Presented by San Diego Symphony. How To Train Your Dragon in Concert features this acclaimed film presented in HD, with composer John Powell’s Academy Award®nominated score performed live to picture by a full symphony orchestra in a thrilling experience for all ages. www.theshell.org.
Be Our Guest: A Disney DJ Night . 9:30pm. House of Blues San Diego, 1055 5th Ave. Tickets: $20-$35. Ages 21+.
9 Sunday
MLB: San Diego Padres VS New York Mets. 1:10pm. Petco Park. www.mlb.com/padres.
10 Monday 11 Tuesday 12 Wednesday 13 Thursday
Santee Summer Concerts 8 Track Highway. 6:30pm. Town Center Community Park, 550 Park Center Dr, Santee. Every TH June 15-Aug 17 (Except July 6). cityofsanteeca.gov/our-city/santeesummer-concerts.
14 Friday 15 Saturday
San Diego Pride Parade 10am. Begins at the Hillcrest Pride Flag at University Ave & Normal St, ends at Laurel St (entrance to the Pride Festival). Largest single-day civic event in the region. https://sdpride.org/parade.
View full event descriptions and stay up-to-date with our calendar and local events. Search for Simply Local Magazine in the app store or scan below to download today!
…on TUESDAYS
Pacific Beach Tuesday Farmers' Market. 2-7pm. 901 Hornblend St., San Diego. Find fresh produce, meats, cheeses, bread, flowers, dips and spreads along with gourmet dining options and handcrafted artisan works. pacificbeachmarket.com.
…on WEDNESDAYS
Little Italy Mercato . 9:30am-1:30pm. Kettner Blvd to State St. Certified farmers market features many of the same farmers & vendors as the Saturday market. littleitalysd.com.
Ocean Beach Certified Farmers' Market 4-8pm. 4900 block of Newport Ave. Offers an array of groceries and goodies. https:// oceanbeachsandiego.com/attractions/ annual-events/farmers-marketwednesdays.
…on THURSDAYS
North Park Thursday Market 3-7:30pm. Between Granada Avenue and Ray Street on North Park Way. Fresh produce, prepared foods, flowers, apparel, baked goods and more! https://northparkmainstreet.com/ thursday-market.
…on FRIDAYS
…on SATURDAYS
Little Italy Mercato 8am-2pm. West Date Street from west of Kettner Blvd to Front St. Certified farmers market features fresh fruits & veggies, pastured eggs, meat, seafood, bread & pastries, yogurt, cheese & sauces, coffee & specialty treats, along with local artists and crafters, candles & handmade soap. www.littleitalysd.com.
Harney Street Market. 9am-4pm. Harney St between San Diego Ave and Congress St. Includes jewelry, photography, pottery, clothing, paintings, hand-painted glass, woodworking, and more. Free and open to the public! www.oldtownsandiego.org/ harneystreetmarket.
Mission Valley Farmers Market. 9am-1pm. 7690 Civita Blvd, inside of Civita Park. Fresh produce, flowers and specialty foods. Food Court too.
…on SUNDAYS
Harney Street Market. 9am-4pm. Harney St between San Diego Ave and Congress St. Free and open to the public! www.oldtownsandiego. org/harneystreetmarket.
