San Diego Downtown News, January, 2010

DOWNTOWN’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER JANUARY 2010

San Diego Community Newspaper Group

East Village Urban paradise on the rise

www.SDNEWS.com Volume XI, Number I

Parade and festival will celebrate legacy of MLK

BY ANTHONY GENTILE DOWNTOWN NEWS

Downtown residents will have two ways to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Saturday, Jan. 16: The annual parade in East Village followed by a multicultural festival in the afternoon.

The 30th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade will make its way through East Village from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Jan. 16. The parade will honor and remember King’s contributions to civil rights and social harmony.

Among the festivities, the parade will feature college and high school bands, drill teams, floats and dance groups. The parade begins at 13th Street, traveling on Imperial Avenue to Park Boulevard. It will pass

by Tony Gwynn Drive, Seventh Avenue, J Street and 11th Avenue before concluding on Park Boulevard.

The local chapter of black fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha coordinates the event. For more information, includSEE FESTIVITIES, Page 5

Photo by PAUL HANSEN

Many see a walkable community propped up by big and small businesses, and mid-rise condominiums

BY SEBASTIAN RUIZ DOWNTOWN NEWS

If the Gaslamp Quarter is the popular heart of downtown, then the East Village is its soul. Over recent years, the community has attracted a lot of attention and investment with the opening of the Padres’ Petco Park in 2004, and more recent efforts to form a business improvement district (BID) — essentially an association made up of business owners who are assessed fees used to upgrade and promote the area. These efforts have helped boost the area as an emerging, vertically sprawling village of young professionals.

The tragically homeless and graffiti-donned buildings around 14th Avenue and K Street might remind some of an older downtown. But several who work and live in the “EV” see an urban paradise — a walkable community propped up by big and small businesses, and midrise condominium homes sparkling along Market Street. These developments now shadow the remnants of

warehouse buildings further east.

With talks of a new Chargers stadium in the area and growth coming slowly-but-surely, several business owners and residents see the emerging future of downtown’s tucked-away diamond as having a lifestyle, and business-style, of its own.

“Your car is out of the question,” said Brandon Buzarde, the 29 year old manager of FIT Athletic Club on the second floor of 350 10th Ave. “You get so used to walking that you don’t even think about your car. The EV lifestyle is a really convenient one of food, entertainment, fitness and you begin to (get) really spoiled.”

Buzarde walks to his job at the fitness club which, he says, attracts a lot of “younger urban professionals” as well as older adults. The surrounding community has the feel of an East Coast neighborhood where “everybody knows everybody,” he said. Buzarde has been with FIT since it’s inception in Houston severCycling class on FIT Athletic Club’s open air SEE EAST VILLAGE, Page 6 deck during Padres Opening Day game.

Pokéz Mexican Restaurant, 947 E St., is among the businesses that have created a niche in the 900 block of E Street between Ninth and PAUL HANSEN | DOWNTOWN NEWS 10th avenues.

Small block on E Street features a collection of unique businesses

BY ANTHONY GENTILE DOWNTOWN NEWS

Hidden off the beaten downtown path just east of the public library and the post office, a block that features 11 unique and independent businesses exists almost unnoticed. The 900 block of E Street between Ninth and 10th avenues is one of centre city’s biggest secrets.

“It’s a hip, hidden jewel,” said Mark Hamilton, who owns FeeLit, a music, art and fashion store at 909 E St. “There’s a lot of people that would like what we have going on over here.”

The short block is a few

blocks up from East Village and Petco Park, and a few blocks over from the Gaslamp Quarter and Horton Plaza – just far enough away from each to remain outside the downtown spotlight. And far enough outside those areas that most wouldn’t venture that way.

“I don’t think it’s really dark, dirty, sketchy or hidden,” Hamilton said. “I think that people are just creatures of habit and once they come over here and give it a shot they’ll find that there’s a lot to offer.”

SEE BLOCK, Page 7

PAGE 2 | JANUARY 2010 | SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

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Business owner has been front and center for redevelopment

BY ANTHONY GENTILE | DOWNTOWN NEWS

Since moving his business downtown two decades ago, Bill Keller has had a front row seat during the area’s redevelopment. Keller has also had a hand in the process, being a former member of the Gaslamp Quarter Association and as current chairman of the Centre City Advisory Committee (CCAC).

“You (now) have the energy of a European-style city or some of the older American cities, which is a surprise to see in downtown San Diego,” Keller said. “It’s been great to be a part of it.”

Keller owns Le Travel Store, a luggage and travel accessories store at 745 Fourth Ave. in the Gaslamp Quarter – a location he has been at since 1994. From 1985 to 1994, the store was located in Horton Plaza, and it was started in Pacific Beach in 1976.

“Back when we were planning to move to Horton Plaza, the very specific thought that occurred to us was ‘I wonder if downtown San Diego will become more like a European city – a lively pedestrian activated community.’” Keller said.

“That is exactly what happened.”

A San Diego native, Keller has seen the complete downtown transformation, from primarily government and business hub to an area that is now home to offices, retail and residents.

“Through the ’60s and into the ’70s, downtown was sort of deteriorating. We had this fabulous piece of land, but it was going nowhere fast,” Keller said. “You had the court system and office buildings and very few people living downtown.”

As for cities that San Diego should aspire to, Keller points to Barcelona. He said that if downtown continues to move forward in the next century, it could be similar to Barcelona in

Dale Bowen & Ann LeBaron (619) 300-7180 or (619) 252-2494 Bill Keller has had a front row seat as a longtime downtown business owner and a member of civic organizations working to improve downtown.

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PAUL HANSEN | DOWNTOWN NEWS

terms of worldwide cachet.

“When you look at cities that have redeveloped, (Barcelona) was really down on its luck and a little gritty and grimy and just transformed itself through a bold vision,” Keller said. “It is now a huge brand name in the world because of the way it was redeveloped.”

Keller has spent eight years on CCAC, downtown’s 28-member community planning board, including being chairman for the past year. Among recent projects the committee has provided input on are the fountain near the Tin Fish restaurant on Fifth Avenue, and revitalization of the children’s park on Harbor Drive.

“We represent the communities that are already here, expressing what they did or didn’t like about the project, really with an effort to make it better,” Keller said. “Unlike in a lot of other parts of San Diego, we are pro growth and pro density. We don’t see density as a negative thing.”

Keller also serves on the Downtown Parking Management Group (DPMG), the official community

parking advisory committee to CCDC and City Council. DPMG has been experimenting with possible parking solutions in pilot zones that make up a total of 15 percent of downtown.

“The biggest problem in downtown is the underutilization of the parking,” Keller said. “What we have is a mismatch between the parking regulations that we have and how it’s actually being used downtown.”

Keller’s personal solution to improving the parking situation downtown is to enforce parking from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. – three hours later – on Fridays and Saturdays. He said this method still keeps 60 hours of weekly enforcement.

“That would be applying parking enforcement when you need it, creating more turnover on Friday and Saturday nights so people can find parking, and giving people a break in the morning,” Keller said. “We’re (currently) beginning enforcement when we don’t need it and ending it when we still need it.”

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NEWS 4 Mistrial declared in 38-year-old case Hall of Champions to induct 16 athletes JANUARY 2010

SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

BY NEAL PUTNAM | DOWNTOWN NEWS

A mistrial was declared Dec. 22 in the murder trial of a 62-year-old Texas man who has admitted killing a man in 1971 whom he met downtown. Jurors deadlocked 8-4 over whether he was guilty of murder or manslaughter.

Eight jurors agreed with the prosecution that Gerald Metcalf was guilty of firstdegree murder, while four held with the defense position that Metcalf was guilty of voluntary manslaughter due to his mental condition at the time. They deliberated 12 hours over three days, but on Dec. 22 they told San Diego Superior Court Judge Ronald Frazier they were hopelessly deadlocked.

Metcalf’s lawyer, David Lamb, conceded that Metcalf killed Gerald Jackson, 27, on Dec. 29, 1971, after Jackson picked up Metcalf, who was then 24 years old, at a gay bar in downtown San Diego.

Jackson was stabbed 61 times and his nude body was found days later in his Pacific Beach apartment by two friends after he had not shown up for work.

Deputy District Attorney Jill Schall successfully sought to put Metcalf on trial a second time. A new trial has been granted and is scheduled to begin May 21.

Metcalf, who has been diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, usually appeared in court as if he was on heavy medication.

After Metcalf heard of the mistrial while attorneys were talking privately with the judge, he turned around and smiled to his wife of almost 30 years.

While deliberating, jurors turned in 10 notes to the judge seeking information or testimony re-reading, but some of the notes were written about other jurors whom a few said were not deliberating and would not budge from their positions.

One note focused on a female psychia-

trist who was a member of the jury and who agreed with the defense position that Metcalf’s mental state was such that he could not have formed the intent to commit murder.

Most jurors met with attorneys in the hallway after the mistrial was declared, and shared their frustrations. Some said two male jurors looked to the psychiatrist juror almost in guidance.

The defense hired Dr. Mark Kalish, a psychiatrist, who testified that Metcalf must have killed Jackson in a schizophrenic episode and was too mentally impaired to form the intent to commit murder. The psychiatrist on the jury agreed with the defense psychiatrist.

Another problem with this 38-year-old case was that jury instructions from 1971 had to be read to this jury because that was the law then. This allowed Lamb to argue for “diminished capacity,” which is a defense that was changed by the state legislature after the 1978 assassinations of Supervisor Harvey Milk and Mayor George Moscone in San Francisco.

Metcalf stole the victim’s Ford Torino and the stereo system that Jackson’s father gave him for Christmas. Metcalf pawned the stereo for $30 and used Jackson’s identification which was written on the pawn slip. Metcalf left cigarette butts in the apartment including one that was stained with the victim’s blood.

Police saved the cigarette butts, and DNA evidence in 2008 matched Metcalf as the smoker. Metcalf’s fingerprints, including some in blood, were found and preserved all these years. A police intern matched Metcalf’s fingerprints via a shared print database with Texas as Metcalf had been arrested and his prints and DNA were on file.

Metcalf is housed at the Vista Detention Facility on $1 million bail.

BY JOHNNY MCDONALD | DOWNTOWN NEWS

selected to the Sailing World Hall of Fame.

Grayson, a graduate of Lincoln High, Pitcher David Wells, four-time Olympic played his college football at the University diving gold medalist Greg Louganis and of Oregon. Drafted by the AFL Dallas Texthree-time world championship sailor J.J. ans in 1961, he played four seasons before Isler will be inducted next month into San joining the Oakland Raiders in 1965 where Diego’s Hall of Champions’ Hall of Fame in he played six more seasons.

Larsen, a Hoover High alum, enjoyed Balboa Park.

The three, along with Veteran’s Commit- coaching success in track and cross country tee selections David Grayson and Bob at all levels. His recent successes include 2004 Olympic silver medalist Larsen, will be honored Feb. 22 Mebrahtom Keflezighi and bronze at the Hall’s 64th Annual Salute medalist Deena Kastor. As a longto the Champions. time head men’s coach at UCLA, Included among the selecLarsen won two NCAA cross tions are 16 Stars of the Year country titles and the 1976 for 2009, headed by record-setnational team championship with ting NASCAR stock car driver the Jamul Toads.

Jimmie Johnson and Chargers Johnson, named by the Associquarterback Philip Rivers. ated Press as Male Athlete of the Wells earned American Year for 2009, became the first League Most Valuable Player driver in NASCAR’s 61-year histohonors twice and was selected Philip Rivers ry to capture four straight titles, to three All-Star games while compiling a 239-157 record. And he has surpassing the legendary Cale Yarborough.

Rivers guided the Chargers to victories in two World Series rings. He’s a product of Point Loma High where, in 1982, he was the final 11 games this season to secure the selected the CIF San Diego Section Player of AFC West title and a bye in the first round of the post-season playoffs, completing betthe Year.

Louganis became the first diver in histo- ter than 65 percent of his passes (308-ofry to record a perfect 10 score on a dive in 471) for 4,155 yards. He was recently international competition at the 1982 World named the Chargers’ MVP for the season.

Two of Rivers’ teammates, veteran tight Championships. After securing a silver medal in platform diving at the 1976 end Antonio Gates and outside linebacker Olympics, Louganis became the only male Shaun Phillips will also be honored.

San Diego Padres MVP Adrian Gonzalez, diver in history to win both springboard and platform gold medals in the 1984 and 1988 PGA star Phil Mickelson, New York City Olympic Games. Louganis is a 1977 gradu- Marathon winner Mebrahtom Keflezighi, Los Angeles Lakers standout Luke Walton ate of Valhalla High.

Isler collected three World sailing titles and the Minnesota Lynx’ Charde Houston along with Olympic silver and bronze will be recognized from the professional medals. A collegiate All-American at ranks.

Former San Diego State pitcher Stephen Yale after attending The Bishop’s School, Isler won the International Yacht Strasburg, the first player selected in the Racing Union’s World Championships in Major League Baseball draft, tops the list of 1986. In 2005, Isler was the first woman collegians who will be feted.

Young Audiences of San Diego & The Salvation Army Kroc Center present a

Free Family Arts & Literacy Program Thursday, January 28 from 6:30-8:00 pm at The Salvation Army Kroc Center at 6605 University Avenue.

This program features a performance of Ghanian music by Bolga Zohdoomah and an African themed hands-on workshop for families. Each family receives one free book per family.

Call 619/282-7599 x114 for more information.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade & Multicultural Festival Saturday, Jan. 13th Make your way downtown on Saturday, Jan. 13, for a day of culturally rich, family-friendly activities, including a special parade and festival with entertainment, art and food.

The Parade starts at 10 a.m. from the east side of Petco Park (tailgate park at 13th and Imperial) and travels north on Park Boulevard to J Street. Then it heads west to Seventh, turns south on Seventh and ends at the west side of Petco Park. Marching bands, floats, balloons, antique cars, drill teams, ROTC units and horses will participate in this year's parade.

At 11 a.m. across from the Convention Center, a FREE Multicultural Festival will begin along the north side of Harbor Drive between Market Street and Fourth Avenue at Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade. Two stages of live entertainment will feature the sounds and dances of San Diego's diverse cultures, from West African, Native American and Cambodian to Afro-Cuban and Zydeco-Cajun.

NEWS

H1N1 vaccine is available to the public

BY SEBASTIAN RUIZ DOWNTOWN NEWS

The swine flu vaccine is now available to the general public and San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) officials encourage those seeking H1N1 vaccine to obtain it from their primary care physician. Individual doses are also available from public facilities throughout the county.

“The vaccine is being distributed based upon availability,” said County Health and Human Services Agency spokesman Jose Alvarez. “The vaccine is free at any of our public health facilities. (The doses) are primarily for those who do not have a

FESTIVITIES CONTINUED FROM Page 1

ing a map of the route, visit www.alphazsl.org-/mlkdayparade.html.

Later in the day, diversity can be celebrated at the Centre City Development Corporation’s familyfriendly 12th annual San Diego Multicultural Festival. The free event will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Martin Luther King Jr. Promenade on Harbor Drive between Market Street and Fourth Avenue.

“It started as a celebration of the diversity of San Diego,” said event producer Jacki Taylor Dwyer. “It’s all about the cultural bridging that takes place when we bring a lot of

primary care physician.”

To date the San Diego County HHSA has received about 985,000 doses of the H1N1 vaccine in various forms including nasal spray and injections, Alvarez said.

Despite a recall in past months of some lower potency vaccine, Alvarez said, the county HSSA has enough vaccine to go around and is expecting more shipments in the following months.

Those seeking the vaccine can go to one of seven public health facilities in the county. Public facilities nearest downtown or the beach-area communities include the VIP Immunizations Clinic, 3177A Ocean View Blvd.; and the Public Health Center North Central, 5055 Ruffin Road.

A full list of facilities and clinics giving the vaccine throughout the county can be found at www.sdcounty.ca.gov/.

As of Dec. 30, the county HHSA reported approximately 778 cases of hospitalized patients with the potentially deadly flu which, according to the Center for Disease Control, has reached “pandemic” status.

Information about the flu is available by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting the immunization branch page at www.sdiz.org/.

The Center for Disease Control website offers advice on prevention including age-old common sense like washing hands frequently and getting vaccinated against other strains of flu.

people of different ethnicities together in a festival format.”

The festival features numerous booths, most of which have a cultural aspect. The booths range from information and nonprofit organizations to food and other vendors.

“This year we really have a wide swatch of both jewelry and clothing from different parts of the world. It’s very exciting,” Dwyer said.

Education is a central theme of the festival, and at the educational fair area, parents and students can speak with representatives from local schools. For the third straight year, the festival will have a global village exhibit, featuring students from San Diego High’s School of Communication.

“It’s a collaboration with a school class – usually middle school and/or high school – and a cultural organization that really focuses on a specific country,” Dwyer said.

“They have to put together something that would be significant to attendees coming by that would strike them as being in India (for example).”

There is also a children’s area at the festival. It features a booth from The New Children’s Museum, drum circles, face painting, international storytellers and a variety of hands-on activities for kids.

“It’s a very busy place and it’s lots of fun; it’s very family-focused,” Dwyer said.

For more information on the multicultural festival, visit www.ccdc.com.

JANUARY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

December 25th 2009 Industry Christmas Benefit for Senior Community Center (servingseniors.org) at The Tivoli Bar

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JANUARY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

EAST VILLAGE CONTINUED FROM Page 1

al years ago, the company has provided its version of social networking and fitness to East Village since February 2008.

He added that the business community is a one-off, in that it’s a “healthier” business climate despite an economic recession.

Buzarde’s sentiment is echoed

by Brian DelPrino, the 28-year owner of Dirty Del’s at 499 10th Ave., in the heart of the East Village. Del’s has been in business for more than a year and has the feel of a sports lounge bar serving as a local watering spot.

Del’s is surrounded by the nearby ballpark and the development sparked by the ballpark. Completed and unfinished condominiums and big business buildings that promise the throngs DelPrino wants have begun to sprout upward. During the “off-season” it’s the locals who keep Dirty Del’s afloat.

DelPrino said the community has a distinct atmosphere.

“People think they’re living in paradise. They’re happy, go-lucky,” he said.

In keeping with an air of a paradise lost-and-found, DelPrino looks forward to an even grander vision of his community that might include a new stadium for the San Diego Chargers and a responsible business community that would use collective dollars to enhance and “brand” the East Village unto its own.

Talks of a Chargers stadium to be constructed blocks away from Padre’s Petco Park have bounced around local radio and print

NEWS

media, giving hope to those wanting to keep the Chargers in San Diego.

“The (Chargers’) stadium would definitely brand us,” DelPrino said.

And with the East Village Association board members gearing up to elect new candidates in the first part of the new year, business owners and stakeholders will pay close attention to decisions affecting nearby businesses.

Though DelPrino said he’d be too busy to get directly involved with the East Village BID board, he said he hopes the association would use his BID fee-money “wisely.”

It’s money that, by law, must be used to enhance the area through beautification and advertising efforts to drive business and tourist traffic into the area. The The Fleetwood, 739 J St., is one of the convenient, outcome could attract popular night spots for local residents in East Village. more new businesses to the community.

That’s something all could bene- restaurants sits on the corner of J fit from, stated a local business Street and 13th Avenue.

Fitzpatrick said it’s the support partner.

“Each year we’re hoping that of the local employees and (growth) would just continue and “upscale” clientele that have as new businesses come more helped the restaurant grow, even east, it would bring more people during tough economic times. He down into that area,” said Thomas also shares a vision of how the East Fitzpatrick, partner in The Mission Village could grow in the future. restaurants. One of three Mission It’s a vision that includes how the

The front of Floyd’s Barbershop at Ninth and Market is an example of how the PAUL HANSEN | DOWNTOWN NEWS neighborhood is becoming both modern and attractive.

much-promised coming of a new Central Library between Park Boulevard, 11th Avenue, and J and K streets might affect business.

“They keep saying if the library comes, that’s going to clean up the area even more,” he said. “If the library was to come in, that would definitely increase (business).”

In hopes of coming expansion, Fitzpatrick also points to issues that need attention.

East Village is home to the city’s homeless winter shelter — a barebones giant white tent fenced off from the surrounding affluence, just a few blocks from empty condos. Inside, about 200 beds help keep those less fortunate from freezing during nippy winter nights. An estimated 75 to 100 people lined the corners of 16th Avenue and Island Street this past New Year’s Eve. But for every person in the community lamenting the lack of resources available to aid the homeless, there’s another who sees

the positive present and future potential for the East Village as it struggles through tough economic times.

A.J. Akbar, 35 year-old co-owner of The Kebab Shop at 630 Ninth Ave., said sacrificing a little bit of profit to keep ingredients that have risen in cost, helps keep his customers coming back. Together with partner Tony Farmand, the duo have owned the shop since December 2008 and have been able to expand to a new location in Mira Mesa, Akbar said.

He highlights what separates a downtown community like East Village from an area like the Gaslamp Quarter.

“You’re not swamped with clubs and bars all around. It’s kind of one of those spots that’s tucked hidden away.

The Kebab Shop was exactly what me and my partner wanted to do … Finding this location in the East Village, we thought ‘Wow…this is it.’”

NEWS

JANUARY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

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SQUISH — A participant (inset) in the Dec. 30 San Diego Big Bay Balloon Parade has an encounter with the boot of a giant inflated pirate as it unexpectedly drifts downward toward Harbor Drive. The event was part of the Holiday Bowl PAUL HANSEN | Downtown News festivities held downtown.

BLOCK CONTINUED FROM Page 1

A restaurant sits on each corner of the block, with a shoe repair store, hair salon, tattoo parlor, day spa, dog salon, recording studio and high-end Japanese retail store in between. The result is an eclectic island of businesses.

“It’s a pretty unique block in downtown San Diego because there aren’t many other blocks that are unobstructed that have independent businesses that take up the entire street,” Hamilton said.

“There’s a lot here on our street to see.”

Perhaps no business on the block is more representative of the vibe than Pokéz, which has been located at 947 E St. for the past 16 years. The inside of the small sitdown restaurant is very busy and features a variety of unique art that is mostly local.

“It kind of manifested all on its own. We just let it breathe and it’s how we grew up – with art all

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around us all the time,” said Alfon- other. It’s very much ‘I got your so Reyes, whose father owns the back, you got my back.’” restaurant. “This is how our old rooms used to look back at home.

THE 900 BLOCK OF E STREET Our parents just gave us freedom • New Café, 901 E St. – Serves and this is what it became.”

American breakfast food and ChiReyes said the tofu, potato and nese food mushroom burrito is a vegetarian • American Shoe Repair, 905 E St. favorite at Pokéz and that the meat • FeeLit, 909 E St. eaters love their Mexican steak. He • Spawlight Dog Salon and Spa, said most of the current clientele at 915 E St. – Dog salon and spa by the restaurant are friends and appointment family, or those who have heard • Vitreum, 917 E St. – High-end about the restaurant by word of import products from Japan mouth.

• Urban Calm, 921 E St. – Skin spa “People that wander over here retreat with treatments and prodare mostly just looking for this ucts place or looking for one of the little • Sweat, 923 E St. – Personal trainshops – they don’t just stumble ing studio with sessions by upon it,” Reyes said. “If you know appointment about it, you know about. If you • Capricorn Studios, 927 E St. – don’t, you don’t.”

Recording studio that has hosted Reyes said the businesses on the the likes of Toni Braxton block make up a distinct, unique • Downtown Tattoo Parlor, 935 E St. community all its own.

• Roseary Room Salon, 947 E St. – “This is a nice little culture, a A dive bar turned salon nice little family block,” Reyes • Pokéz Mexican Restaurant, said. “Everybody knows each 947 E St. other and we all support each

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S T U D I O F I F T E E N

Winner of the Multi- Housing News Best Affordable Design. A community compromised of 275 furnished studio apartments.Your studio apartment home will include a twin bed, built- in desk, chair, flat screen TV with DVD player, private bathroom and an armoire.

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PAGE 8 | JANUARY 2010 | SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

Mercato: Little Italy’s Farmers’ Market Every Saturday Date Street comes alive ever Saturday, rain or shine, from 9 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. with fresh produce, organic produce, various meats, flowers, home accessories, gifts and more. Our farmers’ market models itself after several other successful City Markets from all over the world. So pack up the family and bring them down; sorry, animals are prohibited within the boundaries of Mercato. Thank you for understanding. Mangia Bene!

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SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS | JANUARY 2010 | PAGE 9

2010 Carnevale Saturday, February 13 The Little Italy Association and the Italian Board of Tourism made San Diego’s Little Italy come alive with the 5th Annual Little Italy Carnevale and over 15,000 attendees. This event mirrored Carnevale in Venice with various vignettes of entertainment, a costume competition at the Piazza Basilone, an Italy for Life Hospitality Tour on Date Street, a Passaporto di Carnevale part of the event and social gatherings. The Passaporto di Carnevale took attendees on a stroll throughout Little Italy and introduced them to over 21 participating businesses.

Little Italy Spaghetteria adds music to their menu The Busalacchi family created this spaghetteria with the idea of adding a casual, relaxed eatery to their family of restaurants in Little Italy and around the county.

Casual and spirited food and drinks are served throughout the day. And make sure you treat yourself to one of the sinful desserts.

This year they have brought music to this Spaghetteria so you can dine on the exquisite cuisine while enjoying the various Mediterranean sounds they bring to this supper club venue.

The kick-off started with a New Year’s Eve Party at Spaghetteria where they had the national smooth jazz recording artists “NovaMenco” perform for a

For upcoming events contact: sold-out crowd. With their flamenco guitars flourishing on the www.littleitalyspaghetti.com stage, “NovaMenco” was a crowd www.busalacchis.com, www.NovaMenco.com pleasing show.

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PAGE 10 | JANUARY 2010 | SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

HEALTH & BEAUTY 2010: Make It, Don’t Break It FIT SAVVY

By Connie Cook | Guest Columnist

It’s 2010. Welcome to another opportunity to get it right. Last year is over. You can reflect on it, but don’t dwell on it. It’s time to take a long hard look in the mirror and decide you either like what you see or change what you see.

But don’t kid yourself. Your body is in a constant state of being, it is either progressing or it is regressing. If you want to progress, make a plan. If you want to regress, you don’t need to do a thing, your body will do that by itself!

If you’ve decided to spiff it up in the workout department and take charge of all things that may have gone south in the past couple of months, here are a few ways to make fitness resolutions you can live with and get you back on your workout track.

1. Make goals you really want to achieve.

Too often the same simple resolutions seem to be made over and over each year. It seems most everyone wants to become more organized, go to bed earlier, save more money, be on time, eat healthier and work out more, blah blah blah.

Most of these broken vows have headed way south by February, and by March they are definitely old thoughts blowing in the wind.

Sound familiar? Many people make resolutions because it’s the New Year and they feel they “should.” Think of something you really want to accomplish and set the goal because it means something to you and you’ll have a better chance of achieving it.

2. Set realistic time frames.

Losing weight is the number one goal set each New Year. Unfortunately, it is the one most often not achieved. Because of our obsessions with “fast fixes” we are not always willing to put in the true effort and time that is necessary to reach a weight loss goal.

We are all creatures of habit and we’ve all kicked a few bad ones through the years: spreading gossip before you know it’s really true, over indulging in weekend fun or over spending on our credit cards. However, developing the habits we want is harder: eating our greens, flossing daily or driving the speed limit.

It’s been said that it takes 21 days to form a habit, either good or bad. If you want to lose weight, it’s not going to happen overnight. You didn’t gain it in a day and you won’t lose it in a day. Be prepared to put in the time it will take to lose the weight, so plan a realistic date to reach your goal.

3. Set specific goals.

Losing weight and shaping up are general goals. Make your goals specific so you can “see” your progress. If you want to lose 20 pounds, then focus on losing 5 pounds a month. If you want to increase your strength, then set a goal to do 30 pushups by the end of the month. If you want to increase your flexibility, then try to touch your toes by the end of the month. (If you want to sit by the hottie in spin class, make a goal to arrive there early enough to do it.)

4. Find out where you are.

In order to progress, you need a baseline fitness test to measure your current fitness level.

Enlist the help of a professional who can test your cardiovascular endurance, strength and flexibility. Basic tests such as the one-mile run, the twominute sit up and push up tests, and the sit and reach test will tell you where your physical fitness is compared to the general population. You can review your results, dry your tears and then set the specific goals you want to achieve.

5. Hire a personal trainer.

You hire an attorney when you’re in trouble, an accountant when tax season rolls around and a personal trainer when you’re out of shape.

Personal trainers know more than you do about losing weight and getting in shape. That’s what they do. They specialize in making people strong and healthy. They know the tricks of the trade and they know how to help you get to where you want to be. If you are going to set fitness goals, a personal trainer can help you reach those goals in a safe and time efficient manner. And yes, attorneys and accountants hire personal trainers too.

Whatever resolutions you make in 2010, make sure you keep them real. Don’t try to turn yourself into something you’re not and don’t sell yourself short by nitpicking little parts of your personality to death. You are in this world and unique in your own way. You have made it this far for a reason. Celebrate your positive qualities and focus on being the best you can be and the rest will take care of itself.

Connie Cook “C2” Fitness Director Fit Athletic Club

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JANUARY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

11

Resolve to

r e v O e k Ma 2010

Don’t go another month, or even another year without accomplishing your goals.

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BUSINESS 12 Lady Asher boutique stocked with upscale apparel JANUARY 2010

SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

BY DIANA CAVAGNARO DOWNTOWN NEWS

Mahbod Ghods and Zari Godwin, owners of Lady Asher boutique, 435 J St.

Lady Asher is a new upscale boutique that opened in the Gaslamp Quarter in November.

The store is the brainchild of Mahbod Ghods and Zari Godwin.

Godwin said that Asher means “happiness” and “success.”

The boutique is all in the family because Ghods is married to Godwin’s brother. She has a degree in interior design and, until recently, had a store with her husband selling furniture, accessories and fine rugs.

Godwin lives in Houston, but comes here for one week every month. She said that after coming to downtown San Diego for nine years to visit a friend, she decided to open a business in the Gaslamp Quarter.

Godwin graduated from school with a dual major as a computer programmer and business manager. After two weeks of working as a computer programmer Godwin said, “I need to be with people.”

She promptly quit and opened a boutique in Salado, Texas.

One of her clients was the family of President Johnson who would helicopter in a block away and shop in her store. She went on to open more stores in Houston and even dressed the Bush family from head to toe.

The interior of the store is beautiful, with laminated wood and custom cabinets. The upscale merchandise is different than department stores, with much of SEE BOUTIQUE, Page 13

Guests on a So Diego Restaurant Hop toast their dining experience.

COURTESY PHOTO

New tour company takes diners on ‘Restaurant Hops’ One local company hopes to make it easy for locals and visitors alike to explore San Diego’s restaurants and bars.

So Diego Tours, founded by Bianca Jaime and Dawn Ortiz, has introduced many to restaurant tours in the Gaslamp Quarter, and they are growing in popularity among the locals for private parties, family outings or innovative nights out.

On a typical Restaurant Hop, guests walk to three different restaurants. The So Diego host shows them to a private section in each restaurant where guests are served food samples and a beverage of choice.

The tour gives guests the opportunity to experience different restaurants with different people, making it a fun night out of food, drink, networking and entertainment. The last stop on the

tour always includes live entertainment — anything from a band to a guitarist or a show.

So Diego Tours has other events in addition to its Restaurant Hops. Some of its tours include Temecula Wine Tasting Tours, Yacht Spa Tours, Big Bear Excursions, Julian Pie Baking Tours and San Diego Insider Sightseeing Tours.

Restaurant Hops are e v e r y We d n e s d a y f r o m 7 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased for $60 each at www.sodiegotours.com or by calling (619) 233-8687. Groups of 10 or more can be accommodated any day of the week with advanced notice.

The So Diego launch party is being planned for February. To get invited, sign up for the e-mail list on the company’s website, or call the owners themselves.

BUSINESS

JANUARY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

13

New boat show debuts at Harbor Island’s Sunroad Marina Jan. 28-31

BY NICOLE SOURS LARSON DOWNTOWN NEWS

When the San Diego Sunroad Boat Show opens at Sunroad Marina at the east end of Harbor Island on Jan. 28 for a four-day run, it will have more than a new venue name.

Replacing the annual San Diego Convention Center boat show formerly held in early January, the new show will have a different look and approach. On-land exhibitors will display their wares under canopies and all but small trailerable boats will be at docks in the water.

For the first time, brokerage — or used — boats will be shown alongside new boats. The former sponsor, the National Marine Manufacturers Association, barred brokerage boats from past shows because they represent only new boat dealers, said show director Jim Behun, who manages Sunroad Resort Marina and seized the opportunity to move the show to Harbor Island.

“This boat show is geared to committed boaters and to people wanting to discover boating,” Behun said.

Among the more than 200 exhibitors will be yacht brokers, boatyards and marinas, as well as

Sunroad Marina at the east end of Harbor Island will be the site of a showcase Those attending the San Diego Sunroad Boat Show might come away with of boats, both new and used, at the San Diego Sunroad Boat Show.

COURTESY PHOTO visions of pleasure craft such as this one anchored in a tropical cove. COURTESY PHOTO

vendors offering marine electronics, services, equipment and accessories. About 100 boats for sale, both sail and power, will be shown in the water.

Other new features include cooking demonstrations by chefs from the adjacent Island Prime Restaurant, more food vendors for show visitors, and seminars on boating safety and other topics, including green boating.

The boat show will be at Sun-

road Resort Marina, 955 H a r b o r Island Drive, J a n .

28-31, with show hours 12-6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $10; free for children 12-under.

For more information plus a $2 discount coupon, visit www.bigbayboatshow.com, or call (619) 497-5254. Parking and shuttles are available at the Sheraton Harbor Island Hotel.

BOUTIQUE CONTINUED FROM Page 12

it hand picked from Europe. New merchandise comes in every week.

Godwin and Ghods said they wanted to attract customers from age 18 to 65 years old.

Godwin said the difference in running a store between the two

cities is that Houston is very cosmopolitan (rated eighth biggest in U.S.) with huge galas, parties and oil people. The customers are totally different. San Diego is more laid back with a casual chic attitude. People dress elegantly but comfortable.

Ghods and Godwin said they are planning a grand opening in March. The store is located at 435 J St.

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numbers of dogs abandoned or adversely effected from our slowing Preble Field in Liberty economy, job losses and record foreclosures . Motivated to do something Station on Cushing Rd. in her home community to help the Between Dewey & Roosevelt. dogs and the dedicated rescue community at large, the Festival was Free to the public. This annual launched. county-wide pet celebration will host free of charge, breed specific On Sunday March 1, 2009 with rescue groups and shelters with their adoptable dogs,entertainment, food, veterinary info, products, services, special guests and much, much more!!!!www.doggiestreetfestival.or g/festival.htm

the help of volunteers, rescue groups, shelters, sponsors, vendors, auction prize contributors, entertainers, exceptional individuals providing their expertise, and San Diego’s outstanding community oriented media outlets the Festival was kicked-off.

their pets celebrated our furry best friends at this special event. 35+ Rescue groups and shelters from across San Diego County attended many with adoptable dogs that found loving new homes. We applaud the new parents and their wisdom to ADOPT A PET. We applaud San Diego for coming out in support of Several thousand people with this worthy cause.

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Located at the corner of 15th & Market Street in San Diego’s East Village. www.sandiegopetsupply.com is grateful for all your support in the past year. We will be having a 10% off everthing in the store customer appreciation day on Sunday Febuary the 6th. Hope to see you here to take advantage of all the savings.

We value all san diegans for their support in all events held here throughout the year and anticipate this year will be just as good as our years past. Remember warehouse is open 7 days and we are eager to serve you and you mascots. we can be reached at 619263-2211 Thanks again and live every day to the fullest.

PAGE 14 | JANUARY, 2010 | SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

DECEMBER 12TH 2009 at the f le e t wo o d

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ASR Tradeshow The front of The Casbah, 2501 Kettner Blvd., is familiar to San Diego music fans who frequent the spot to take in their favorite PAUL HANSEN | DOWNTOWN NEWS acts or listen to new talent.

The Casbah celebrates 21 years of great acts

BY BART MENDOZA DOWNTOWN NEWS

returns to the the Convention Center Event to draw about 18,000 action sports business people

BY RACHEL CURTIS DOWNTOWN NEWS

For the 28th year running, San Diego will host the action sports industry’s leading trade show at the Convention Center, drawing approximately 18,000 business professionals from 60 countries to the downtown area Feb. 3 and 4.

Action Sports Retailer (ASR) takes place bi-annually, showcasing upcoming apparel and product trends for skateboarding, surfing and the snowboarding markets. This year, ASR Access will combine three unique environments: the main ASR trade floor; Class@ASR, a higher fashion, boutique show; and Crossroads, a more relaxed, core skateboard event held in the Petco Park parking lot.

In previous years, the main floor’s mini-ramp demonstrations have been skated by proboarders from Steve Caballero

to Shaun White to Tony Hawk.

With the addition of “best street” and “best trick” demonstrations at Crossroads in February, organizers anticipate the highest level of skating yet. (ASR events are not open to the public.)

As the epicenter of action sports, Southern California attracts retailers from across the country and around the world. Seeking an authentic connection to the industry’s roots, they generate an estimated $30 million in local revenue per year.

ASR’s vice president Andy Tomkins calls the convention the “flagship” of action sports industry trade shows. Having expanded beyond specialty shops in the mid-’90s to department stores and sporting good chains, the industry has come to represent a culture rather than just an activSEE ASR, Page 19

Sector 9 touts advantages of Action Sports Retailer show

BY RACHEL CURTIS | DOWNTOWN NEWS

Once laughed out of skate shops, San Diego’s home-grown Sector 9 skateboards now dominates the longboard category, a niche it almost singlehandedly brought back into fashion.

International sales manager Marcus Valdivia recalls the early years trying to revive the surf-style product, which was last popular in the 1960s.

“No one thought people would ride it,” Valdivia said. “They would say, ‘That’s not skateboarding.’”

Today Sector 9 has a presence in 57 countries and a clear majority in the domestic market, with about 100 brands competing for the remaining share. One element that helped it expand to its current position was the Action Sports Retail (ASR) convention, which the company has attended for the past 15 years.

Valdivia said Sector 9 will continue to attend to stay competitive.

“All the other brands are looking uphill. Everybody’s gunning for you,” Valdivia said. “We feel a SEE SECTOR 9, Page 19

San Diego is fortunate to have many excellent music venues within it’s boundaries, but none can touch the legendary status of The Casbah. A rare mix of revered concert spot and neighborhood bar, the club, originally located at 2812 Kettner Blvd., was established in 1989, moving to its current location at 2501 Kettner Blvd. in 1994.

The Casbah has hosted a legion of incredible performers, from Nirvana to The Cult, The Plimsouls to Social Distortion. However, where the venue has made its biggest impact is in nurturing the local music scene. Thousands of local artists have performed there, with many, if not most, of the towns most successful acts of the past 20 years being regulars.

This January the venue celebrates its 21st anniversary with a month-long series of shows mixing upand-coming rockers with reunion performances from some of the past two decades’ best loved local performers. More than 75 acts will take the stage during January including such notables as The Nervous Wreckords (Jan. 9) and Transfer (Jan. 29).

Meanwhile, reunited combos will include ’90s era rockers Creedle (Jan. 16) and The Dragons (Jan. 23) as well as ’80s vintage country-rockers the Town Criers (Jan. 30).

The key to the club’s success is its owner Tim Mays.

In addition to outside promotion of up to 40 concerts a year, along with various business partners, Mays is

also involved with Starlite Dining & Cocktails in Mission Hills, Krakatoa coffeehouse in Golden Hill and the Riviera Supper Club in La Mesa. Even with so much on his plate, The Casbah remains a priority, though his schedule doesn’t permit him to be at the club nearly every night, as he used to be.

“Things can be a little time consuming,” Mays said. “But at the Casbah, I have a wonderful staff.

Over the years, I’ve been able to hire more people to help with booking and help with promotion and delegate. I used to do it all myself.”

He takes pride in noting that “about ¾ of the people have been there at least 15 years.”

He cites shows by Jesus Lizard and Rocket from the Crypt as among his favorites over the decades, but notes it’s hard to pick.

“There has just been so much great music that’s taken place here, but I consider any night where the energy is high and the band‘s interaction with the audience is good, to be special,” he said.

Case in point are two recent shows by El Vez and Gary Shuffler.

“I’ve seen both more times than I can count, but they always put on such great shows,” Mays said.

“In a packed club, with so many friendly faces, it’s a wonderful experience and always memorable.”

Ironically, he missed what is arguably the most famous show to take place there, Nirvana, in 1990.

Matt Molarius of indie SEE CASBAH, Page 19

PERFORMIING ARTS/DINING 16 ‘Whisper House,’ ‘La Boheme’ and a small ‘boom’ Restaurant Week offers great dining opportunity JANUARY 2010

SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

San Diego has an amazing selection of restaurants and talented chefs, and San Diego Restaurant Week allows fans of fine food an opportunity to feast on a variety of cuisine at an affordable price.

From Jan. 17 to Jan. 22 you can select from more than 170 of San Diego’s restaurants for a three-course prix fixe menu for just $20, $30 or $40 per person depending on the restaurant.

All of San Diego’s unique neighborhoods are offering up some of their most famous house specialties and menu classics. Visit the Gaslamp Quarter and downtown for an exciting urban dining experience, for example.

Last year, more than 100,000 people took advantage of the event and even more are expected in 2010, so reservations are strongly recommended.

San Diego Restaurant Week is as simple to participate in as calling to make reservations at any of the participating locations, no tickets or special passes are required. Just simply dine out at a participating restaurant during the week of Jan. 17 to 22. For more information and a complete list of participating locations, visit www.sandiegorestaurantweek.com or call (619) 233-5008.

THE LIVELY ARTS By CHARLENE BALDRIDGE

January offers diverse and splendid opportunities for fine entertainment in the lively arts. Get your New Year cultural mojo on with the following:

At The Old Globe At the top of my list is Duncan Sheik and Kyle Jarrow’s world premiere musical “Whisper House,” opening in previews at the Old Globe Jan. 13 and continuing through Feb. 21. Sheik wrote the Tony Award-winning “Spring Awakening” and Jarrow, the Obie Award-winning “A Very Merry Unauthorized Children’s Scientology Project.” The new musical concerns 11-year-old Christopher, who is sent to live with his lighthousekeeping aunt when his daddy is killed in World War II. As it happens, the lighthouse is haunted by ghosts that only Christopher sees. For information go to www.theoldglobe.org or phone (619) 23-GLOBE.

At the Lyceum San Diego Repertory Theatre presents Peter Sinn Nachtreib’s “boom,” an end-of-the-world bedroom farce that concerns a geeky biologist (Steven Lone) and the savvy but reluctant woman (Rachael Van Wormer) he’s picked

Steven Lone, Rachael Van Wormer and Sylvia M'Lafi Thompson star in San Photo Erin Bigley Diego Repertory Theatre’s "boom," at the Lyceum.

to help him repopulate the planet.

Opens in previews Saturday, Jan. 9 and continues Wednesdays through Sundays, through Jan. 31 in the Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza. For info and tickets, visit www.sdrep.org or phone (619) 544-1000.

At the Civic Theatre San Diego Opera opens its season at the Civic Theatre Jan. 30 with Giacomo Puccini’s beloved “La Boheme.” The production features the return of German soprano Anja Harteros in her role debut as Mimi. Sensational Polish tenor Piotr Beczala (catch him on YouTube!) makes his San Diego Opera debut as her Rodolfo. Also playing 7 p.m. Jan. 30 and Feb. 2, 8 p.m. Feb. 5 and 2 p.m. Feb. 7.

Info at www.sdopera.com or phone (619) 533-7000.

• Broadway San Diego presents “Riverdance” Jan. 5-10, and “Jesus Christ Superstar” (with Ted Neely) Jan. 15-17. Information: www.sandiegotheatres.org

At Copley Symphony Hall San Diego Symphony under the baton of Jahja Ling starts the New Year with Sergei Prokofiev’s Symphony No. 5, performed at 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday, Jan. 8 and 9, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 10. Also featured is violist Che-Yen Chen in performance of George Frideric Handel’s Viola Concerto in B minor at Copley Symphony Hall, Seventh and B Street, www.sandiegosymphony.com or (619) 235-0804.

One Night in Bangkok scheduled for Feb. 5 Lotus Thai downtown is celebrating its fifth anniversary at its East Village location and wants to share a special evening of Thai culture and cuisine.

February 5 is Lotus Thai’s One Night in Bangkok event. From 6 to 9 p.m., Lotus Thai will feature free hors d’oeuvres, traditional Thai dancing, art from local artists and drink specials.

The One Night in Bangkok event is free and open to the public.

Partners Ton Sangkapong and Brice Hung-Pin Lin work together to produce traditional Thai cuisine with a sense of artistry, style and presentation. Fresh ingredients, unique flavors and a comfortable yet elegant décor make Lotus Thai downtown a favorite for locals.

Lotus Thai’s menu offers great dishes like the unique lemon grass chicken, succulent chicken wrapped around a lemon grass cane creating a lemon-infused explosion of flavors. One of their best sellers is the Crying Tiger, charcoal-broiled marinated primecut steak, lightly seasoned, served with fresh greens and a spicy lime dipping sauce.

Lotus Thai downtown is a comfortable, sophisticated restaurant where you can enjoy a casual lunch or a romantic dinner, yet the reasonable prices will not break your dining budget.

Serving lunch and dinner daily. 906 Market St. in East Village.

(619) 595-0115. lotusthaisd.com —Angie Harman

DINING

Tabule is a cozy hidden gem

BY ANGIE HARMAN

The Gaslamp Quarter is known for its fun, trendy nightclubs and many great restaurants. But tucked into the folds of Fourth Street near Island Avenue is a hidden gem that many locals have already discovered and want to keep for themselves – Tabule Restaurant & Bar. This cozy eatery has been open for just more than a year and a half. Its warm atmosphere is comfortable yet upscale. Owners, sister and brother team Moe and Moji Sadighian, strive for a living room mentality.

“After a long day, we want our customers to feel as comfortable as they would at home in their living rooms,” Moe said.

The decor is chic and inviting, with walls of burnt sienna, rich chocolate leather seating and a floating fireplace behind the bar.

Contemporary fixtures glow with perfect lighting and subtle art adorns the walls. Relaxing tunes are played at an enjoyable level, yet do not drown out conversation.

The most impressive aspect of Tabule is the freshness of its food and drinks. Touted as global fusion, the menu spans a wide variety of international cuisines including Italian, Thai, Middle Eastern, ceviches, sushi, seafood dishes and steaks. The menu changes periodically to add new and exciting dishes, and features such favorites as the seared diver scallops cooked to perfection with a scrumptious oyster and crab demi-glaze.

JANUARY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

17

THE BEST HOTCAKES YOU’VE EVER

photo courtesy of Brent Andeck

Tabule Restaurant & Bar 535 Fourth Ave. in the Gaslamp Quarter Open Mondays through Fridays for dinner, Saturdays and Sundays for lunch and dinner (619) 238-0048 tabulerestaurantbar.com Another popular appetizer is the flavorful mini mesquite duck tacos.

Fresh, hot sourdough bread is served at each table with a yummy garlic aioli and a habanero salsa that comes with a kick.

The several Italian dishes on the menu feature pastas made fresh in-house and are infused with chipotle. Incredibly, all of Tabule’s sauces are made fresh when you order them.

The filet mignon medallions are tender and deliciously seasoned.

All of the seafood Tabule serves is caught in the wild and served with

jasmine rice topped with saffron butter and grilled vegetables, tasty with a hint of smokiness.

The restaurant’s specialties are its ceviches. I tried three: the caracole, the white sea bass and tuna ceviches, and they were excellent, served with crunchy grilled tostadas. With so many to choose from, it may be best to try the Ceviche Trio, with your choice of three ceviches. Each is served with its own signature dressing and a variety of fresh ingredients like seeded cucumber, peeled and seeded tomatoes, kalamata olives, capers, cilantro, avocado and red onion.

Tabule offers a unique and wide selection of cocktails, meticulously prepared with fresh fruits and juices, no artificial sweeteners or syrups. Known for their fabulous pomegranate martini, they offer 16 other flavors of martinis, served in SEE TABULE, Page 19

TASTED OR THEY’RE

FREE

We are so confident that you will agree that our hotcakes are the best you’ll ever taste, that we are willing to put your taste buds to the test. Our pancakes are made from the finest flour and sweetest buttermilk on the planet. And the same goes for our Old Fashioned Malted Waffles.Try them once. You’ll be hooked for life. We also offer these delicious waffles with our special Fried Chicken.

NOW FREE DELIVERY (within a limited area)

DOWNTOWN San Diego’s ONLY 24/7 RESTAURANT

BREAKFAST AVAILABLE 24 HOURS 828 6TH AVE, GASLAMP DISTRICT

619-702-8410

FASHION THREAD Show, Chargers fashion show and Dressed to the Nth Degree 18

JANUARY 2010

SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

The THREAD Show San Diego came to the Wonderhaus downtown on on Dec. 4 and 5, combining fashion, art and music. Designers and emerging artists set up booths selling many one of a kind and discounted items perfect for holiday shopping. In addition to the hub-bub of the shoppers, there were many other cool things going on: entertainment by rotating DJs, live art, a clothing exchange, special drinks, hair and make-up by A Style Concierge and silk screening.

Gordana Gehlhausen from Project Runway 6 hosted the four Runway Shows during the weekend.

FASHION FILES By DIANA CAVAGNARO

Gordana’s Collection was at 1 p.m. each day, and at 3 p.m. there was a collection of vendors from the show. This is always one of the most anticipated parts of the show and is well attended.

Some of my favorite booths at the event were Gordana’s beautiful creations, gorgeous crocheted gold and silver wire by Miriam Jewels, and an array of many environmentally friendly products. The most unique was Unnur who specializes in sea-leather. This included stunning leather handbags made from Icelandic salmon and African perch. For a truly unique experience and fun shopping time, stay tuned for the next curated Indie Design and Fashion THREAD Show that is scheduled for April.

For more information visit www.threadshow.com.

Chargers strike downtown Westfield Horton Plaza hosted a fashion show on Black Friday to bring more shoppers to the mall.

The location was on the sidewalk outside the Levi Store on the street level. A huge crowd gathered around the runway and all the excitement began when the Chargers Girls came out dancing to upbeat music. These high-energy girls wowed the audience with A model wears a design from the their slick routines.

Next came the fashion show photo by DIANA CAVAGNARO THREAD Show.

Runway models at the Chargers Fashphoto by DIANA CAVAGNARO ion Show.

highlighting mall retailers.

Gretchen Productions produced this entertaining holiday show. The models came down the runway showcasing Fall/Winter styles and trends. This show started the festivities to celebrate the San Diego Chargers 50th Anniversary. The celebration continued after the fashion show with a San Diego Chargers block party in the Gaslamp Quarter featuring music, celebrities and player appearances for the fans.

Dressed to the Nth Degree

on Nov. 13. Brigadier General Mike Neil was honorary chair, Sally B. Thornton was founding honorary chair, and Linda Masters was chair.

Bill Menish was MC of the live auction. The “Style Guy” Leonard Simpson presented a Fashion Extravaganza featuring local designers. This stunning show encapsulated 14 scenes leading up to the finale with designs by Jose Maria Ybarra. The models came out onto the stage and then down the stairs into the aisle on each side of the audience. This was a unique way of highlighting all the creations.

After this stunning show. Simpson presented his 2009 San Diego’s Best-Dressed Awards. The 10 Best Dressed Women were: Laura Applegate, Tanya Brandes, Rita JoAnne Garcia-Szczotka, Jennifer Greenfield, Denise Hug, Roxi Link, Tiffany A. Mahoney, Sandy Redman, Pam Slater-Price and Susan Lucas Spanos. The 10 Best Dressed Men were: Vincent J. Bartolotta, Jr., Todd Gloria, Jim Lennox, Jim J. Mahoney, Eugene “Mitch” Mitchell, James F. Mulvaney, John H. Parrish, Onofrio Pecoraro, Billy Ray Smith and Richard Woltman.

Proceeds from the evening go to the Scripps Cancer Center at Scripps Mercy Hospital and were matched by Richard and Kaye Woltman through their $1 million challenge grant to support the expansion plans.

The Second Annual Premier Event Dressed to the Nth Degree Upcoming shows was presented by Mercy Hospital • Upcoming fashion events in Auxiliary at the Spreckels Theatre San Diego this month include two

A playfully short dress adorned with necklaces at the Nth Degree show. photo by DIANA CAVAGNARO

bridal shows in January. The first is “Festival of Brides” at The Grand in Del Mar, Sunday, Jan. 10 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $25 with pre-registration at www.FestivalOfBrides.com. For more info call (310) 577-7788.

• There will be a Bridal Bazaar at the San Diego Convention Center on Sunday, Jan. 31 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The center will host the 35th winter expo named San Diego’s “Best Bridal Show.” There will be four fashion shows presented by Gretchen Productions and wedding professionals will set up booths with information on having SEE FASHION, Page 19

DOWNTOWN NEWS ASR CONTINUED FROM Page 15

ity. So while ASR is not the Convention Center’s biggest event, in the world of action sports it is the prime occasion for retailers to plug into the lifestyle that they promote.

“It’s a unique opportunity to see what’s happening in the marketplace,” Tompkins said. “When you touch down at the airport, you immediately feel the surf/skate culture.”

Despite the recession, major players are reporting positive sales, and in 2008 the market boasted $7.2 billion in sales, down

just 4 percent from 2006. With 500 vendors exhibiting and 5,500 retailers expected, attendance is on par with last January’s show.

However, this year’s lagging economy has squeezed out many smaller start-ups.

Although many companies operate out of Los Angeles and Orange County, Tompkins considers San Diego ASR’s “perfect” host city for its balance of the urban and beach communities, which embodies the lifestyle.

“San Diego is a great place to show the culture, and action sports is one of its true endemic industries,” he said.

SECTOR 9

gaining both new distributors and new countries – in addition CONTINUED FROM Page 15 to continued growth with existing foreign clients. In this regard, ASR could again be pivfull court press is necessary at all otal – Sector 9 has gained 80 percent of its original internatimes.” tional distributors from past In addition to maintaining its ASR trade shows. presence, the 16 year-old busi“ASR has always been one of ness has much to gain at its prethe strongest for international ferred trade show. While ASR connections,” said Valdivia, who provides opportunities to nethas been with the company for work, stay current with trends, 12 years. snap up referrals from other Yet no matter where it goes, booths and participate in side meetings on industry politics, the Sector 9 will remain loyal to San Diego, and to ASR. When the most relevant for Sector 9 is the company was acquired by Billexposure to the international abong in 2008, it stipulated in its marketplace. new contract that it remain based Although domestic retailers in its hometown. who carry the brand are still “We were born and raised growing, the international market here,” Valdivia said. “ASR is our holds the greatest potential for home show. We’ll always go.” market penetration in terms of

CASBAH CONTINUED FROM Page 15

rock group Transfer first hit the Casbah’s stage in 2000. For him it’s the caliber of the performers who regularly perform at the club that make it so special.

“I think The Casbah’s success can probably be attributed to quality control,” he said. “Tim’s always done such a great job booking the acts.

It’s rare to see the owner of a venue book most, if not all, of the acts. I think he’s just a big fan of good music and enjoys it. I’m sure it’s like any other business where building solid relationships over the years and creating a good atmosphere in general goes pretty far.”

“I think the reason the Casbah is so successful is that they treat the bands fairly, and the bands love to play there because of

TABULE CONTINUED FROM Page 17

their own shakers, and several choices of margaritas and mojitos.

The wine list features a collection of international wines as well as a good selection by the glass.

When you choose a wine, you‘ll find the reds decanted and aerated for you at the table, and the whites chilled, which is a really nice touch.

Tabule offers “Power Hour” happy hour from 5 to 6 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, all evening on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and Sundays from 3 to 6 p.m. featuring half priced appetizers and drinks.

JANUARY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

that,” said Creedle bassist Tim Blankenship.

He first played the club in 1989, with his band at the time, The Pulltoys.

“You get the feeling of family when you walk into the place, due to the whole lifetime employee thing they have going on,” he mused. “You’re always going to run into familiar faces there, no matter how old you get.”

After more than two decades of music at The Casbah, Mays is still as enthusiastic as ever about the venue, with shows booked up to six months in advance.

“Yes, when I think about it, it is kind of amazing that we’re still here all these years later,” he laughed. “But music is still something that’s really important to me, whether I’m listening in my car, playing with the I-Pod, or seeing a good new band,” he said.

“I love it.”

19

FASHION CONTINUED FROM Page 18

the perfect wedding. Tickets are $10 at the door or visit www.BridalBazaar.com. For information call: (760) 334-5500.

• Additional upcoming events will be M.Dot presenting a “Futuristic Safari Fashion Show SSC 2010” by designer/seamstress Michelle Quino.

Maeve Riley and the Basement Boutique will sponsor this event which will be where M.Dot Designs can be purchased. The show will be Saturday, Jan. 28, 9 p.m. in the Voyeur Nightclub located at 755 5th Ave. For more information visit: www.mdotdesign-studio.blogspot.com.

• Friday, Feb. 12, will be “Hearts United” at the W Hotel San Diego from 6 to 9 p.m. The evening will be presented by United Way and “Style Guy” Leonard Simpson, and will include a runway show, silent auction, hosted bar and hors I cannot say enough about the d’oeuvres by the W San Diego. impeccable hospitality and atten- Tickets are $75 and may be purtive staff at Tabule. From the chased at uwsd.org. friendly hostesses to the accommodating and professional servers Diana Cavagnaro is a Nationand bar tenders, everyone seems ally recognized hat designer and to have a smile on their face. milliner. She has operated a fashTabule was built for the locals. ion business for 27 years, the last Its steady crowd of regulars is 17 years in the historic Gaslamp growing by the day, but they wel- Quarter. Diana has taught in the come out-of-towners and business Fashion Department at San Diego travelers who happen by. No doubt Mesa College for 17 years. She is about it, whether a regular or first an active member of the Gaslamp timer, Tabule’s staff makes every- Quarter Association, The Amerione feel welcome. can Sewing Guild, the San Diego Tabule makes a great venue for Costume Council and the Fashion a first date, a romantic night out or Group International. special occasion. aheadproductions.com

FOOD & DRINK Go to: www.sdnews.com/pages/dining for more dining information

Richard Walker’s Pancake House Est. 1972

Come Try Our Fish Tacos & Authentic Margaritas!

Richard Walker's Pancake House, an upscale fusion of traditional and gourmet breakfast favorites, is now open in the Marina District in downtown San Diego. Serving classic-style griddlecakes, crepes, omelets and other specialties, this pancake house is certain to become the 'premier' breakfast destination for San Diego's residents, employees and the tourist community! Open 6:30 A.M. to 2:30 PM 7 days a week, and if you are unable to stay and enjoy the atmosphere, take Richard Walker's with you as we prepare orders to go.

Salazar’s Taco Shop

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner / 6:30am - 9pm Daily 1502 Market St. / San Diego / 619-238-9674 www.salazarsfinemexicanfood.com

Salazar’s Taco Shop Began as a dream in 1945 and turned into a reality in 1972. The owner and founder, Frank Salazar, began working at the age of 14 in the kitchen of the La Fonda Hotel in Santa Fe under the supervision of a German chef named Konrad.

Today the “taste of home” quality of the food is enjoyed by many long-time customers and some of our new neighbors who are becoming our new regulars. The fine food at Salazar’s can be enjoyed seven days a week, 6:30 am until 9 p.m. Breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as food to go are served all day. Bulk food orders with advance notice are available. The margaritas are real and the bottled beer is cold. The best thing I’ve ever been told by a customer is that “there’s a genuine-ness about this place.”

East Village Tavern & Bowl "Let the Good Times Roll!” Gourmet grub, frosty drinks and bowling to boot! Join us for Happy Hour M-F 3-7pm or to watch the game. Enter to win an official NFL Jersey every Monday night.

Weekly Bowling only $2 per game Monday-Thursday 11am-4pm. $3 Per Game Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11am-4pm. Book your next corporate event or party. What better way is there to celebrate any occasion – 12 bowling lanes, 30-50" flat screen TV's and plenty of room for up to 400 people. There's an action filled package for every degree of hunger and thirst, and every budget.

For more information: 619.677.BOWL(2695) events@bowlevt.com www.bowlevt.com

Wolf fy’s Place Wolffy’s Place- authentic Chicago Eatery featuring Chicago Vienna hotdogs, Italian Beef on Gonnella rolls, Baby back BBQ ribs, Chicago Deep Dish Pizza as well as thin crust, Brats, Italian and Polish sausage, and a full bar with happy hour 3pm-6pm M-F with two for one beers, and $4 wells, half price appetizers and $3 sandwiches; come watch all Bears, Bulls and Blackhawk games on Direct T.V.

6:30am–2:30pm • 7 days a week 520 Front Street • Just South of Market, Downtown

619-231-7777 • www.richardwalkers.com

20

FOOD & DRINK

JANUARY 2010 SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

Blue Point Coastal Cuisine Announces Cavi-Hour Blue Point Coastal Cuisine, located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter will offer you nothing less than a first class dining experience. Visit Blue Point during “Restaurant Week 2010” where you’ll taste Executive Chef Jonathan Hale’s mouthwatering creations including Miso Marinated Alaskan Black Cod, Crab and Pancetta Stuffed Whole Trout, Root Beer Glazed Smoked Pork Tenderloin and Liquid Center Chocolate Cake for just $30 for an unforgettable three-course meal.

Visit Blue Point Coastal Cuisine for Cavi-Hour. Cavi-Hour features a selection of fine caviars, discounted appetizers, and drink specials. Choose from a selection of caviars, explore our special caviar & libation pairings, or enjoy house favorites like freshly shucked oysters for $1 and crispy calamari for just $6. Drink specials change nightly but always include our specialty martinis at half price, $5 wines by the glass, and $4 domestic draft beers.

Cavi-Hour is available Monday through Friday from 5pm to 6:30pm in the bar and lounge only.

Call Blue Point Coastal Cuisine at 619-236-6623 for reservations.

Executive Chef Jonathan Hale, Blue Point Coastal Cuisine

Thee Bungalow: Fine Food & Wine since ’69 Located in the seaside community of Ocean Beach, adjacent to Point Loma, Thee Bungalow restaurant has been a San Diego dining favorite for over 35years. A wonderful, quaint, country Bungalow located off the beaten path and away from tourist destinations, this hidden gem is a favorite for locals offering world class French cuisine and an extensive wine list featuring modestly priced wines from all regions of the world.

Be sure to give it a try during “Restaurant Week 2010” where Executive Chef Paul Niles will “wow” you with a three-course menu featuring options such as his famous Lobster Bisque to start and delicious entrée selections such as Pan Roasted Idaho Trout, Braised Colorado Rack of Lamb or Angus Steak au Poivre, and to finish a Chocolate Mousse for just $30.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable culinary adventure take part in a “fiveCourse Wine Dinner”, offered every Wednesday, featuring local wineries and mouth-watering culinary creations. The Wine Dinners begin at 6:30pm with tray passed appetizers followed by a five course meal paired with wine.

Chef Paul Niles, Thee Bungalow

Call Thee Bungalow at 619-224-2884 for reservations.

SUNDAY FOOTBALL

BREAKFAST 9AM – 3PM $1 MIMOSAS $4 BLOODY MARYS $5 DOUBLE TALL BLOODYS $9.99 BOTTOMLESS MIMOSAS Full breakfast menu 30+ OMLEETTES TO CHOOSE FROM 10+ EGGS BENEDICTS TO CHOSE FROM

2 FOR 1 HAPPY HR.

7 DAYS A WEEK 3PM – 8PM

715 4TH AVE. MON – FRI 11AM – 2AM SAT – SUN 9AM – 2AM

For TV reservations please call

619-955-5995

22

SERVICE DIRECTORY - SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2010

FLOORING

ARTIST SERVICES

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chuckgjr@cox.net CA Lic. #925325

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REAL ESTATE DIRECTORY · SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

23

THURSDAY, JANUARY 2010

CA DRE Broker's # 01312924 Karen Dodge CA DRE Broker's # 01312925 Mike Dodge

would like to thank our clients for the HAPPY NEW YEAR! We opportunity to have sold these homes during 2009:

2929 Cowley Way #G 1251 Emerald 1264 Opal St. 1855 Diamond #228 4454 41st 5041 Gaylord 3103 Morning Way 1955 Diamond

START YOUR NEW YEAR HERE! 4052 Promontory St., Pacific Beach 3947 Sequoia St., Pacific Beach

Open House Most Sat/Sun 1– 4

92117 92109 92109 92109 92115 92117 92037 92109

8085 June Lake 4465 Arendo 1067 Loring 1104 Missouri 964 Archer 1133 Tourmaline 9195 Elingham 235 Market St. #501

92119 92115 92109 92109 92109 92109 92129 92101

We have several listings that will be placed on the market at the begining of 2010. Let us know what you are looking for. We can help you find it! As Top Prudential Listing Agents in Pacific Beach, we’ll get you Top Dollar when you list and sell your house with us.

Brand new Tuscan-style contemporary single family homes, almost 2,000 sf. Each 3BR/4BA with penthouse room opening to large rooftop deck, perfect for watching the playoffs!

Either 1 blk to Crown Point Shores or 3 blks to Sail Bay...with miles of sandy beaches and park areas to walk, sail, run, bike or sunbathe.

Kathy Evans 858.488.SELL Coastal Properties

Watch sunsets over the ocean EVERY day from this new 1,600 sf t’home, 3 blks to oceanfront. $589K

DRE #00872108

Buying? Selling?

THINKBRIAN.BIZ Brian J. Lewis 619-300-5032 DRE #01440201

Coastal Properties

STAY, SEE & DREAM SAN DIEGO

Just Liste d!

Four fabulous 2- and 3-bedroom NEW construction condos in the heart of Pacific Beach! All units are move-in ready with private garages, outdoor living and many upgrades! A Must See!

Staci Malloy

858.490.6129

Karen: 619-379-1194 • Mike: 619-384-8538 E-mail: Karen-Mike@San.rr.com Web: www.karen-mike.com

Bernie

Need Help Selling Your Home?

Pacific Beach Call to see my Listings: • Custom Home in Crown Point • 18 New Condos, One block from Ocean • New Condos Near Sail Bay

“I’LL COME TO YOUR RESCUE” WWW.BERNIESOSNA.COM

(619) 977-4334 CELL (858) 490-6127 DIRECT

All areas of the Real Estate Directory:

• Rentals • Forclosures • Open Houses • Realtors/Lenders/Brokers 3445 Bayside Walk · The Baysider

For as low as:

· 3 bed / 3 bath · Panoramic Views · 2-car attached garage · Private bay front wrap around deck · Walk to eat, shop & surf · Owner financing available

$75/wk for an ad with picture $25/wk for a 3 line classified ad For a listing, call us today at:

Valerie Zatt 858.274.1553

858.270.3103

www.stacimalloy.com

Work with a Beach Specialist

SOS na

www.oppsd.com

OPEN HOUSE directory LA JOLLA

PACIFIC & MISSION BEACH/CROWN PT

Fri 1-4pm

361 Prospect St.

3BR/3BA

Greg Noonan • 858-551-3302

Sat 1-4pm

7453 Girard Ave.

1BR/2BA

$749,000

Erica Derby • 858-361-4903

Sat 12-3pm

5567 La Jolla Hermosa

3BR/2BA

$1,299,000

Michelle Serafini • 858-829-6210

Sat 1-4pm

361 Prospect St.

3BR/3BA

Sat 1-4pm

475 Marine St.

3BR/3BA

Sat 1-4pm

8101 Prestwick

4BR/4BA

$2,580,000

Brant Westfall • 858-922-8610

Sat 1-4pm

1590 Coast Walk

5BR/4BA

$7,500,000-$8,500,000

Bobby Graham • 619-379-9668

Sun 11am-2pm

7453 Girard Ave.

1BR/2BA

$749,000

Erica Derby • 858-361-4903

Sun 1-4pm

356 Prospect St. #N-2

1BR/1BA

$759,000

Marie Huff • 619-838-9400

Sun 1-4pm

361 Prospect St.

3BR/3BA

Greg Noonan • 858-551-3302 $2,150,000

Jim Holland • 858-405-6442

Tu–Fri 12-4pm Sat 1-4pm Sat 1-4pm Sat 1-4pm Sat 10am-2pm Sun 1-4pm Sun 10am-2pm Sun 10am-2pm

924 Hornblend 2BR Units 1365 La Palma 3BR/2.5BA 1045 Turquoise #A 3BR/2BA 5323 Soledad Mountain Rd.4BR/2BA 3709 Ocean Front Walk 4BR/4BA 5323 Soledad Mountain Rd.4BR/2BA 3445 Bayside Walk 3BR/3BA 3709 Ocean Front Walk 4BR/4BA

$519,000-$556,000 $629,000 $699,000 $895,000 $6,500,000 $895,000 $1,495,000 $6,500,000

Alex Rojas • 858-427-3664 Brad Brinkman • 858-273-2121 Jeff Lang • 858-699-7000 James Shultz • 858-354-0000 Valerie Zatt • 858-274-1553 James Shultz • 858-354-0000 Valerie Zatt • 858-274-1553 Valerie Zatt • 858-274-1553

POINT LOMA / OCEAN BEACH Sun 1-4pm Sun 1-4pm

5120 W. Point Loma Blvd. 3BR/2BA 1689 Froude St. 3BR/2BA

$895,000 $819,000

Cindy Wing • 619-223-9464 Ray Allen • 619-980-9464

6622 Radcliffe Dr.

3BR/2BA

$699,000

4BR/2BA

$629,000

James Shultz • 858-354-0000

5BR/6BA

$3,500,000

Filly Gaines • 858-699-6556

4BR/2BA

$699,000

Maxine & Marti Gellens • 858-551-6630

$865,000-$885,000

Fay Yates • 858-229-5434

Greg Noonan • 858-551-3302

UNIVERSITY CITY

Sun 11am-1pm

469 Arenas

2BR/2BA

$890,000

Michelle Serafini • 858-829-6210

Sun 1-4pm

4253 Caminito Terviso

4BR/3BA

$895,000

Carol Hernstad • 858-775-4473

Sun 1-4pm

528 Forward

4BR/3BA

$1,195,000

Marty Vusich • 858-449-6106

Sun 1-4pm

6748 Tyrian

2BR/2BA

$1,298,000

Peter Van Rossum • 858-204-3221

Sun 12-3pm

5567 La Jolla Hermosa

3BR/2BA

$1,299,000

Michelle Serafini • 858-829-6210

Sun 1-4pm

551 Rosemont

2BR/2.5BA

$1,300,000-$1,500,876

David Schroedl • 858-459-0202

Sun 1-4pm

553 Rosemont

2BR/2.5BA

$1,400,000-$1,600,876

David Schroedl • 858-459-0202

CORONADO

Sun 12-4pm

475 Marine St.

3BR/3BA

$2,150,000

Jasmine Wilson • 858-204-6885

Sun 1-4pm

Sun 1-4pm

358 Belvedere

4BR/4.5BA

$2,200,000-$2,450,876

David Schroedl • 858-459-0202

Sun 10am-1pm

8101 Prestwick

4BR/4BA

$2,580,000

Brant Westfall • 858-922-8610

Sun 1-3pm

7964 Calle de la Plata

5BR/4BA

$2,595,000

Michelle Serafini • 858-829-6210

Sun 1-4pm

5749 Abalone Pl.

4BR/4.5BA

$3,495,000

Sandy Kaiser • 858-682-5002

Sun 1-4pm

7210 Country Club Dr.

6BR/5.5BA

$3,695,000

The Reed Team • 619-300-8100

Sun 1-4pm

2610 Inyaha Lane

6BR/6.5BA

$4,845,000-$5,755,876

Claire Melbo • 858-229-8383

Sun 1-5pm

6906 Fairway Rd.

6BR/9BA

$6,995,000

Charles Stephens • 858-682-5561

Sat & Sun 1-4pm Joe Koors • 619-410-4213

CLAIREMONT Sat 12-3pm

3042 Courser

34 The Point

DEL CERRO Sat & Sun 1-4pm

5884 Madra Ave.

CARMEL VALLEY Sun 1:30-4:30

13494 Moonflower Meadows Trail 4BR/3BA

DEADLINE FOR THE OPEN HOUSE DIRECTORY IS NOON ON TUESDAYS.

PAGE 24 | JANUARY 2010 | SAN DIEGO DOWNTOWN NEWS

Search entire Southern California’s Multiple Listing Services for over 100,000+ listed properties with virtual tours and photos at

Open 7 Days a Week, 8am to 7pm 516 5th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101

www.sellsandiego.com

Downtown · “Harbor Club”

Downtown · “Meridian”

Downtown · “Renaissance”

Enjoy over 2500 square feet of luxury and expansive views to the West, South, and East from this elegant residence!

The warm and inviting interior boasts gleaming marble flooring, walls of windows taking in the views, three bedrooms, three walk-in closets, and three bathrooms.

A bonus is the three secured parking spaces! Truly a resort environment in the heart of the coveted Marina District!

For full details in a recorded message,

Nothing compares—approximately 40 staff members ensure the ultimate in luxury living in an urban environment! This unique residence in the premium southwest corner of the community features 180-degree water views, 1,900 sq. ft., an open “loft style” floor plan designed for entertaining and easy living, and top-quality finishes throughout!

For full details in a recorded message,

Boasting one of the best water views in the Marina District, this 20th-floor penthouse-level residence features over 2,000 square feet! Original owner recrafted the interior by creating an open living space and a gourmet kitchen to die for! Four balconies and dual side-by-side parking, too!

For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5219

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5499

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5469

Downtown · “The Mark”

“Segal Live/Work Rowhome”

You haven’t seen another like it—builder only constructed a few of this popular floor plan with an open living area, dual view terraces, and dead-on views directly into the ballpark and to the scenic bay and Coronado Bridge beyond! You’ll love the upgrades from this 26th-floor penthouse level beauty, which may convey full furnished with the right offer! Dual side-by-side parking, too!

For full details in a recorded message,

Truly one-of-a-kind, this award-winning masterpiece offers the ultimate in urban living! Ideally located in the Marina District, the residence includes approximately 2,300 square feet of “hip” architecture PLUS a separate, 700-square-foot work loft/ granny-flat, or entertainer’s mecca, with home theater & wet-bar. A “must see”!

For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5279

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5479

“Electra” Builder Close-Out Bosa Development has selected us to market their few remaining luxury residences at one of Downtown’s most unique and desirable residential communities! Boasting stunning views, elegant finishes, and common amenities par excellence! Take advantage of these blow-out prices today! Starting at $349,000!

For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5139

Downtown · “Pinnacle”

Downtown · “Harbor Club”

Downtown · “Harbor Club”

Downtown · “Meridian”

Downtown · “Pinnacle”

Enjoy panoramic, 26th-floor city and Coronado Bay Bridge views from this picture-perfect, two-bedroom residence in one of the Marina District’s most popular, luxury, residential high-rise communities! Wall to a multitude of restaurants and entertainment venues from this beautifully located development!

For full details in a recorded message,

You’ll want to make this lovely residence your home or home-away-from-home! Featuring stunning views to the South and East, it enjoys an oversize view terrace and two terrific parking spaces near the entrance. This resort-style community is located in the heart of the Marina District.

For full details in a recorded message,

You’ll love this perfect pied a terre in the Marina District’s premier, resort-style, luxury high-rise community! The residence boasts panoramic southeast corner views to the Coronado Bridge, Bay, and Petco Park, an elegant granite kitchen & an oversize view terrace. Enjoy!

For details in a recorded message,

The ideal second home or primary residence, this east-facing residence is in wonderful condition and boasts wonderful night-time views of the city lights and urban surroundings! Meridian is Downtown San Diego’s own “Trump Tower,” complete with service and amenities beyond compare!

For full details in a recorded message,

This stunning beauty on the 17th floor boasts split, dual master suite design, a warming fireplace, gleaming granite and stone surfaces in the kitchen and baths, travertine floors in the living areas, and a private balcony with views to the Coronado Bay Bridge! You’ll love life in this luxury, high-amenity tower!

For full details in a recorded message,

call 800-709-1995, Ext. 5269

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5259

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5229

Golden Hill · Hist. Victorian + Income

Downtown · “Discovery”

Downtown · “235 on Market”

Originally constructed as a single-family home and modified into four income-producing units. Conveniently located to downtown, one of the units spans the entire top floor of the property, and includes 3 bedrooms, an updated kitchen and bath, and lovely views of the downtown skyline and Coronado Bay Bridge—perfect for an owner-occupant! Off-street parking for 4 vehicles.

Truly special! For full details

Take advantage of this fabulous SHORT-SALE on the 14th floor on Cortez Hill’s premier community! Boasting south-facing views to the Coronado Bridge and a multitude of interior upgrades, this one should not be missed!

For full details in a recorded message,

Take advantage of this well-priced SHORT-SALE with 2-bedrooms/ 2-baths, and a premium end-unit locale overlooking the community courtyard in a prized Marina District location! You'll enjoy a granite kitchen, a private balcony overlooking the urban sights, dual parking, and an organized walk-in closet in the master!

For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5249

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5019

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5199

Downtown · “Marina Park” Sold for $250,000!

This top-floor cutie has been upgraded with rich hardwood floors, custom paint-tones, and a pristinely-presented interior! Perched in a quiet location in a low-density, beautifully manicured community with HOA fees under $500!

For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5299

es or hom f s t n e #1 Ag every year SOLD go County Die in San ce 1992! sin

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Downtown · “The Grande” Priced under most others in the community with this desirable, 1,944-square-foot floor plan, this elegant, 2-bedroom + den, 2-bath boasts stunning views from its southwest corner locale! You’ll love the walnut flooring throughout, upgraded kitchen granite, dual balconies and parking spaces, and upgraded lighting! $553 per sq. ft!

For full details in a recorded message,

Downtown · “ParkLoft” Almost 1,700 square feet of classic “loft” design are in evidence, including high ceilings, cement walls and ceilings, exposed ductwork, & custom lighting.

A room-size, organized walk-in closet is a dream!

Take advantage of this super, below-market opportunity!

For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5099

call 1-800-709-1995

Downtown · “Marina Park” One of the Marina District’s originals, this popular midrise community boasts dual pool, a staffed lobby, and lovely, mature landscaping. This expansive 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence in a quiet location includes granite kitchen and a real, working fireplace! Dual secured parking spaces and a multitude of guest parking!

For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5029

Downtown · “La Vita” This fabulous SHORT SALE opportunity boasts 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 expansive terraces, an ambient fireplace, and 2 parking spaces!

A terrific buy!

For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5519

Downtown · “Watermark” Hold onto your hats, you will LOVE this elegant, beautifully re-crafted and remodeled beauty, complete with 2+ bedrooms, 2 baths, over 1550 square feet, rich stone surfaces and high-quality appointments throughout, including Merano glass lighting, dual parking spaces, and a covered terrace accessed via the living area as well as the master suite. Stunning!

For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5189

SH PE OR ND T S ING AL E

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5109

SH PE OR ND T S ING AL E

call 1-800-709-1995, Ext. 5239

Downtown · “La Vita Short Sale” Take advantage of this super opportunity to own a pristine starter property in Little Italy’s premier residential community with superb north-facing views over the scenic courtyard! Walk to everything the village offers from this ideally-located property!

For full details in a recorded message,

call 1-800-709-1995, ext. 5089

1-800-221-2210 www.sellsandiego.com

Before you put your home on the market call for a FREE Marketing Package

DRE #00809392 DRE #00822095

It’s only a buyer’s market if you BUY! When it’s over, where will YOU be living?

Independently owned and operated of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Neuman & Neuman does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by the seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of the information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals.

Independently owned and operated of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. Equal Housing Opportunity.