Sensi Magazine - San Diego (May 2018)

SAN D I EG O

THE NEW NORMAL

THE

5.2018

Other

california Road Trip to ENSENADA

fish OUT

OF

WATER OutCo CEO Lincoln Fish

A Bike-Sharing Bonanza!

A Barrel of Fun + Taco Fest SoCal Launch Tour + More!

contents.

ISSUE 5 // VOLUME 1 // 05.2018

FEATURES

18

The Other California Looking for an exciting and inexpensive vacation that’s

not too far from home? Why not cruise down the coast into Mexico on a road trip to Ensenada.

26 HighProfile: A Fish Out of Water

Former healthcare executive Lincoln Fish brings

his entrepreneurial acumen to San Diego’s Outliers Collective.

EVERY ISSUE

26

5 Editor’s Note 6 The Buzz 10 HighSpirits

30 The Scene

SAN DIEGO LAUNCH

32 SoSD BARREL REPUBLIC

SUSPENSION OF DISBELIEF 14 AroundTown PEDAL POWER TO

THE PEOPLE

10

POUR DECISIONS Don't worry, be hoppy.

14

ROLL WITH IT! Put some fun between your legs.

Sensi San Diego is published monthly by Sensi Media Group LLC. © 2018 SENSI MEDIA GROUP LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

sensimag.com MAY 2018 3

sensi magazine ISSUE 5 VOLUME 1

5.2018

EXECUTIVE

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CEO, SENSI MEDIA GROUP

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GENERAL MANAGER

ALEX.MARTINEZ @ SENSIMAG.COM

EDITORIAL Stephanie Wilson

EDITOR IN CHIEF

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4 San Diego MAY 2018

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Bon Voyage

editor’s

NOTE

THIS MONTH, WE CELEBRATE THE “UNOFFICIAL” START OF SUMMER : MEMORIAL DAY. IT ’S A TIME WHEN MOST AMERICANS TRADITIONALLY PUT THEIR THREE - DAY WEEKEND TO GOOD USE BY HIT TING THE ROAD FOR A LIT TLE GETAWAY OF SOME SORT, AND I FERVENTLY ENCOURAGE YOU TO DO THE SAME. TURN OFF YOUR COMPUTER AND GET OUT OF THE HOUSE. GO ON A HIKE, A CAMPOUT, A PICNIC, OR A ROAD TRIP. GET SOME SUN AND SOME EXERCISE — OR, EVEN BET TER, EXERCISE YOUR SENSE OF ADVENT URE. You don’t need to be Indiana Jones — or even Bill

months, five issues, and three killer launch parties later,

and Ted, for that matter— to have a most excellent ad-

I’m proud to say I’ve accomplished that goal. Along the

venture. And you don’t need to do something danger-

way, I’ve learned more about both magazine making

ous or grandiose like climb a mountain, wrestle an alli-

and myself and been warmly welcomed into a family

gator, or jump out of an airplane — all you need to do

of professionals for whom I hold a deep respect. But

is leave your comfort zone and embrace the unfamil-

alas, a new adventure beckons, and I must be moving on.

iar. The excitement of exploration is all about breaking

My sincerest thanks to Sensi for this historic oppor-

out of your routine and rejuvenating your spirit. Expos-

tunity — I’m proud of the work I’ve done and what

ing yourself to new places, cultures, and flavors pro-

we’ve achieved. And thanks to you, the readers, for your

vides valuable perspective, fosters tolerance, and ex-

enthusiastic support and positive feedback. I look for-

pands your horizons … literally.

ward to watching this magazine continue to grow, suc-

Of course, the enlightened are those who learn to approach life itself as an adventure — to derive joy from the journey, bumpy though it may sometimes be. It’s been my experience that if you follow your heart and heed the signs the universe leaves along the road

ceed, and set the standard for the new normal.

Bon voyage, fellow travelers!

for you, then destiny will determine your destination.

As it happens, I’ve recently reached a rather fateful fork in my own path.

Last fall, I joined the Sensi team with the goal of helping to launch their three new SoCal editions and establishing the brand’s presence on the West Coast. Eight

Bobby Black

SoCAL EDITOR @ BOBBYBL ACK

A D V I S O RY B OA R D FlowerKist by Steph // TOPICALS

Pot Drive (Kush Kandy) // MEDIA & ADVERTISING TECHNOLOGY

LINX Card //

Therapy Tonics & Provisions // EDIBLES

MERCHANT SERVICES

Greenstar Solar // SOLAR ENERGY

Thrive CBD // CBD TINCTURES

Mighty Meds Vape // VAPE

Webjoint // POINT OF SALE SOFTWARE

Outco // CULTIVATION & DELIVERY

sensimag.com MAY 2018 5

the

buzz A MONTHLY RECOMMENDATION FOR MUSICAL MEDICATION FROM JON PACELLA, A SALES SPECIALIST AT THE ICONIC AMOEBA MUSIC IN HOLLYWOOD.

PHOTOGRAPHS © TIM YOUNG/ SOUTHPORT MARKETING

THE NE W N O R M A L

ALBUM: Germfree Adolescents

- Deluxe Edition (2009)

ARTIST: X-Ray Spex FAVORITE TRACK: “Oh Bondage, Up Yours!”

Consumerism, sexism, conformity, the punk scene itself…all of it was fuel on the fire of a 19-yearold, half-Irish, half-Somali woman from Brixton named Mari Elliott who, back in 1978, reinvented

taco town

herself as Poly Styrene, the lead singer of X-Ray Spex. With a mouth full of braces and a style all her own, she shunned the increasingly popular leather punk garb in favor of dazzling Day Glo colors. X-Ray Spex made a statement before they’d even played a note. Then, the music starts with Poly’s cry of “ARRR-TI-FICIALLL!!” and the concrete foundation

Taco fanatics rejoice: on Saturday, May 19, Waterfront Park will be awash with myriad Mexican delights at the San Diego Taco Fest. More than 30 popular restaurants are on deck to offer a variety of tempting taco options from their menus, and a selection of beers, tequila drinks, and other beverages will be available to wash it all down.

The event’s entertainment takes on a south-of-the-border flavor as well, with a group of lucha libre wrestlers facing off throughout the day, and a multitude of tiny paws stepping down the catwalk (or should I say dogwalk) and trotting around the track for the Chihuahua Beauty Pageant and Races. The main stage will be headlined by classic rap combo Salt-N-Pepa with Spinderella, who will also be joined by performers Flashpants, One Drop Redemption, and others.

Whether you're a traditionalist who likes your tacos street-style in corn tortillas, or more of a Tex-Mex fan who prefers dairy-drenched deluxe style tacos in flour tortillas, you don’t want to miss this epic expo of Mexican munchies.

—A.J. HERRINGTON

SAN DIEGO TACO FEST {When} Saturday, May 19 ­// 11 a.m.–10 p.m. {Where} Waterfront Park ­// 1600 Pacific Highway {Tickets} General Admission: $30 advance, $35 day of event (does not include food). VIP: $125 advance, $150 day of event (includes unlimited taco bar and soft drinks, four drink tickets, snacks, desserts, and preferred viewing section) SDTACOFEST.COM 6 San Diego MAY 2018

of the album is laid. The lyrics are brash and in your face, and that’s what makes it so beautifully genuine—especially through the lens of today’s image-obsessed culture. Also in your face is Lora Logic’s blaring saxophone, the imperfection of which fits in perfectly with the band's underground sound and nonconformist ethos. Feeling the intensity of “Let’s Submerge” and the anthem “Oh Bondage, Up Yours!,” it’s instantly apparent how important and special this album and this band still are today.

It’s sad to think that this was their only fulllength release (before reuniting in the ‘90s), and that Styrene would later die of breast cancer in 2011. Nevertheless, X-Ray Spex was a star gone supernova, leaving a brief and blazing mark on the timeline of music history.

sensimag.com MAY 2018 7

THE NE W N O R M A L

A cavalcade of arts, live music, food, and more take to the streets of North Park this month at the 22nd Annual Festival of the Arts. A crowd of around 40,000 is expected to flood through nine square blocks of the eclectic midcity community, where more than 100 local artists will show off their work. Painting, photography, jewelry, and other masterpieces will be on display, offering potential patrons the chance to engage directly with the artists, and even watch them produce beauty before their very eyes at the Live Art Block on University Avenue between Iowa Street and Herman Avenue. Even the little ones get a chance to shine with hands-on projects at the Kids Art Block on Illinois Street. A variety of food and cooking demonstrations will tempt the palate throughout the day.

And of course, it wouldn’t be North Park without craft beer: Pints and sample flights, as well as specialty mixed drinks, can be found at Waypoint Public Craft Beer Block and Cocktail Garden.

The Festival of the Arts in North Park is sponsored by San Diego County Credit Union and organized by the North Park Main Street Business Improvement District.

“Our neighborhood is driven by its diversity and creativity, and the festival celebrates this through a variety of art forms,” says the organization’s executive director Angela Landsberg. “We’ve created daytime and evening experiences for every local and visitor to North Park to enjoy. Families can come for the day and music lovers will enjoy the variety of local and regional indie rock, folk, funk, and DJ sounds on our four stages. This day truly goes beyond the traditional art festival.”

—AH

22nd Annual Festival of the Arts in North Park { When } Saturday, May 12 //11 a.m.-10 p.m. { Where } 30th St. & University Ave., North Park { Admission } Free NORTHPARKMAINSTREET.COM/EVENTS/FESTIVAL-OF-ARTS

8 San Diego MAY 2018

the

buzz

SENSI CALENDAR A brief listing of some of the top shows in and around San Diego this month.

Lo Moon – Casbah Joey Bada$$ – Soma 5/3 King Tuff – Casbah 5/4 The Fratellis – Observatory North Park 5/6 Nick Hakim – House of Blues 5/7 Acid Mothers Temple – Casbah 5/8 K.Flay – Observatory North Park 5/9 Afghan Whigs, Built To Spill – Observatory North Park 5/10 Slayer, Lamb of God, Anthrax, Testament & Behemoth 5/2

5/3

– Valley View Casino Center

5/11 Tech N9ne – House of Blues

5/11 Hot Snakes, Le Butcherettes – Observatory North Park 5/12 “Weird Al” Yankovic – Humphrey’s Concerts By The Bay

5/13 Kendrick Lamar, SZA & Schoolboy Q – Mattress Firm Amphitheater

5/13 Steven Wilson – House of Blues 5/14 Nada Surf – Belly Up Tavern

5/18 Dirty Heads – Mattress Firm Amphitheater

5/19 MGMT – San Diego Civic Theatre

5/19 Peter Hook and the Light – House of Blues 5/20 Pond – Casbah

5/22 Godspeed You! Black Emperor – Observatory North Park 5/22 Life of Agony – Brick By Brick

5/22 The Head and the Heart, Grouplove – Cal Coast Credit Open Air Theater 5/24 Phantogram, Tycho – Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre

5/24 G.B.H. – Observatory North Park

5/26 The Glitch Mob – Observatory North Park 5/28 Pink – Valley View Casino Center

flying

High

Come get high as a kite—literally—at the Ocean Beach Kite Festival. Billed as the oldest children’s kite festival in the United States, the event features workshops on kite building and decorating, demonstrations from professional fliers, and other crafting activities for the whole family. Carnival activities, street food, and live music round out this day of fun in the sun. The festival is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Ocean Beach and takes place Saturday, May 12 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at Robb Field, 2525 Bacon Street in Ocean Beach.

—AH

SEECALIFORNIA.COM/FESTIVALS/SAN-DIEGO-OCEAN-BEACH-KITE-FESTIVAL sensimag.com MAY 2018 9

{highspirits}

PHOTOGRAPHS © COURTESY OF BARREL REPUBLIC

by DAVID RUISE

10 San Diego MAY 2018

BARRELS OF FUN At Barrel Republic, you can embark on a self-serve tasting tour of local craft beers and wines without ever leaving the building.

With over 200 microbreweries in our fair city,

ing out of that specific tap. Peruse the selections, and

there’s no shortage of beer styles and flavors, from

when you find one you want to taste, just scan your

the lightest of lagers to the hoppiest of IPAs to the

wristband at the tap you choose and pour your draft. If

most robust of stouts. There's something suitable on

you want a taste, get an ounce or two. If you want

tap for every aficionado. But if you’re the kind of curi-

more, opt for a whole pint. You’ll be charged only for

ous connoisseur who's interested in tasting lots of

the amount you’ve poured.

different brews without ending up in the drunk tank—

“I love the way we do things here,” says Sean Hale,

or the poor house, for that matter—then Barrel Re-

Barrel Republic’s general manager. “Our model allows

public is the place for you. Operating under the slogan

for people to sort of window shop. Whether you’re

“Freedom to Pour,” this trendy tap house features be-

new to craft beer or a devoted fan, you’re more likely

tween 50 and 60 self-serve taps at each of its three

to stay in your comfort zone when you have to commit

locations, allowing patrons the opportunity to sample

to a full pour. At Barrel Republic, you can expand your

any and all of the beers they might want to try without

horizon a bit—try things your friends have told you

committing to a full pint.

about or you’ve read about or whatever. Learn some-

Here’s how it works: When you walk through the

thing new.”

door, you get a wristband and open a tab. Above each

Barrel Republic owner Dave Pike hails from the in-

tap around the room, you'll see a tablet screen with a

surance industry, but his passion for craft beer ulti-

given brewery's logo and a description of what's com-

mately led him down this more fun and rewarding

sensimag.com MAY 2018 11

path. Fascinated by the idea of creating a place where

Bud, look elsewhere. Instead, the venue offers only

people could sample the plethora of brews available in

craft beers with a focus on local, hard-to-find, or

this ever-expanding market, he set out to create a

in-demand styles. (They also a have a selection of

venue where anyone could craft a custom beer-tast-

nonalcoholic beverages, including locally produced

ing journey. His commitment to delivering a personal-

cold-brew coffees and kombuchas.) Hale says his only

ized drinking experience at Barrel Republic appeals to

regret is that there's “just not enough room for all the

a customer base as diverse as the beers they pour—

awesome beers out there...but we try!”

and that’s just the way Hale likes it.

Barrel Republic has three locations: the original

“It’s the best of both worlds for brewers and con-

spot, which opened in Pacific Beach in late 2013, cur-

sumers,” he says. “We offer a unique way for less-

rently offers 44 beer taps and eight wine taps. The

er-known, newer brands to be on display and to be as

second outpost opened in Oceanside in 2015 and has

equally accessible as the better-known brands. That

48 beer and eight wine taps. The third, in Carlsbad Vil-

translates to a win for our guests: they get access to a

lage, opened in late 2016 and features 52 beer and six

relatively unknown beer. It’s pretty cool. I love to see

wine taps. The latter two are also gastropubs with

people’s faces light up when they come across some-

menus that go far beyond typical bar food. Featured

thing new that they really like.”

selections include pistachio-crusted lamb meatballs;

Like the kegs, Barrel Republic keeps its tap lineups

arugula and white bean butternut hummus salad;

saucy, not stagnant. "Our goal is always to offer

salmon and turkey smoked in-house; and a variety of

what's fresh, exciting, and new while celebrating the

gourmet flatbreads, burgers, and sandwiches, all

classics, too,” Hale explains. Barrel Republic doesn’t

served with hand-cut french fries.

serve corporate brands, so if you’re seeking a Coors or

For people with a taste for the harder stuff, Pike

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12 San Diego MAY 2018

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also owns Jalisco Cantina, a cocktail bar in Oceanside that opened in September 2017. The authentic-feeling spot boasts an impressive tequila list alongside a menu full of central coast Mexican dishes that transport diners to the region that inspired them.

Back at Barrel Republic, inspiration comes in all sorts of forms. For some, the monthly drink specials and weekday happy hours (20 percent off drinks from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.) are inspiring. For others, it's the weekly activities like trivia, painting, and Pilates that do the trick. Others still get jazzed about special events like the Knee Deep Brewery Tap Takeover on May 4 and the Deschutes Tacky HawaiPACIFIC BEACH

OCEANSIDE

CARLSBAD

ian Shirt Night on June 11. There's some-

1261 Garnet Ave.

215 N. Coast Hwy.

2961 State St.

thing for everyone. Stop by and exercise

(858) 270-9922

(760) 435-0042

(760) 841-8404

your Freedom to Pour. The taps are waiting. BARRELREPUBLIC.COM

sensimag.com MAY 2018 13

{aroundtown}

by A.J. HERRINGTON

PEDAL POWER TO THE PEOPLE San Diego’s colorful new dockless bike sharing programs offer an enjoyable and eco-friendly way to get around the city.

As the first hint of spring warms the air, a riot of color bursts forth in San Diego neighborhoods. Vivid

2017. Instead, the company plans to add more stations downtown and in the surrounding area.

swaths of yellow, orange, and green line the city’s

Aside from being considered unsightly by some, an-

streets and sidewalks. But these bold hues brighten-

other drawback of the stations is that many riders find

ing the urban landscape aren’t emanating from the

it inconvenient to have to pick up and return bikes at

year’s first blooms—rather, they’re from the multi-

specifically designated locations. As usual, though, tech-

tude of branded bicycles scattered across the city.

nology has come to the rescue. Companies such as Lime,

San Diego’s first bike-sharing service DecoBike,

ofo, and Mobike are now offering the next generation

which has been around since 2013, was rebranded this

of “dockless” bikes with self-locking mechanisms, al-

January as DiscoverBike—reflecting a sponsorship

lowing them to use the power of the almighty smart-

deal with the Discover card financial services compa-

phone to manage their rentals and to pick up and drop

ny that promises to bring new investment, technolo-

off the bikes just about anywhere they are needed.

gy, and stations to the platform. With the Discover-

Here’s how it works: To ride, users first download

Bike model, bicycles are available for rent at more

the app from their operator of choice. Nearby bikes

than 100 stations, most of which are clustered in the

can then be located on the app’s interactive map. Once

city’s urban core. Rentals start at $5 for a half-hour

an available bicycle has been found, a quick scan with

and go up to $12 for a two-hour ride. Weekly passes

the phone’s camera unlocks it, allowing it to be ridden.

and monthly or annual memberships are also available

Once finished, the bike can be left in any appropriate

to reduce the price per trip for regular users. Though

place, and automatically relocks itself at the end of the

popular in most of the city, DiscoverBike faced push-

rental period, leaving it ready for the next rider. Rental

back from residents in some of the beach communi-

fees are charged to a pre-registered credit card and

ties, who found the bike stations aesthetically dis-

average around a buck to unlock the bike, plus 10 cents

pleasing. This resulted in the removal of 15 stations in

per minute thereafter. Handlebar baskets, as well as

14 San Diego MAY 2018

sensimag.com MAY 2018 15

video tutorials on safety and riding etiquette, including a humorous parody of the film The Matrix that serves as a primer on the dos and don’ts of bicycle parking.

Although some US cities such as Miami Beach have established exclusive agreements with a single bike-sharing business, that didn’t happen here. Instead, Bird at the beach.

City Attorney Mara Elliott determined that the city’s existing deal with DiscoverBike did not legally preclude it from issuing permits to other companies to allow

PHOTOGRAPH © COURTESY OF MOBIKE

PHOTOGRAPH © COURTESY OF BIRD

headlights and taillights, make riding convenient and safe. The app also offers

Mobike in the Gaslamp.

them to operate in the city. The result: San Diegans now have many options to choose from.

The bright yellow bikes of the company ofo were some of the first dockless models to hit the streets. Billing itself as “the world’s first station-free bike-sharing platform,” the Beijing-based company was founded by David Wei, a Peking University grad with a desire to give back. After spending a year volunteering to teach impoverished kids in a rural area of China where schools were remote and

PHOTOGRAPH © COURTESY OF MOBIKE

Mobike at Waterfront Park.

transportation options limited, Wei was inspired to create a bike-sharing program for students to improve access to education. That idea grew into ofo. The name, explains ofo San Diego General Manager Anna Wan Christie, was designed to transcend languages while visually resembling a bicycle with its stylized lowercase lettering. Since its founding in 2014, the company has spread to more than 250 cities in 20 countries. Christie says the knowledge gained from these global operations gives her company an edge on the competition. According to her, solid op-

Councilmember David Alvarez tries ofo.

erational systems and widespread availability are the essential components of a successful bike share company.

“The key is making sure that you have a bike everywhere that someone might

PHOTOGRAPH © A.J. HERRINGTON

want to ride a bike,” she says.

To celebrate its San Diego launch this February, ofo offered free rides on its bikes throughout the month of March. In just the first two weeks of the program, ofo attracted thousands of new users who traversed more than 20,000 miles through the local streets.

Naturally, other bike-sharing companies were quick to follow suit. Mobike, another global bike-share brand that started in Shanghai in 2016, also began local ofo at the County Administration Building.

service this February in the Gaslamp, along the waterfront, and in Hillcrest. Jason Wong, Mobike’s US general manager, says his company’s bikes are what separate them from the competition.

"One of the things that make Mobike stand out is product quality,” Wong says.

“We’re the only company to manage our own factory. So that means that we to-

PHOTOGRAPH © A.J. HERRINGTON

tally control the process—from design to manufacturing to operations.”

16 San Diego MAY 2018

LimeBike’s bright green cycles appeared in February too, providing color-coordinated competition in downtown and center city neighborhoods. In addition to standard bicycles, LimeBike offers some with an electric-assist feature, as well as motorized stand-aboard scooters. And yet another company, Bird, began offering scooter rentals in Pacific Beach and downtown last September.

San Diego’s bike-sharing options provide benefits to residents and visitors alike by putting biking within everyone’s reach. The daily commute, a quick er-

rand, and even sightseeing can be a breeze on a bike.

tors (like those mentioned earlier) have inevitably con-

John Anderson of advocacy group Bike San Diego says

tinued to surface. Terrie Best, a resident of South Park,

tourists have also quickly taken to bike sharing. At a

says she’s seen backlash about the dockless bikes on

press conference in March celebrating ofo’s debut, he

social media.

told the story of a couple from Wyoming he met. They

“So much pearl-clutching about having to walk

visit San Diego regularly and told him bike sharing

around or even see lots of bikes on the sidewalks,” she

made their most recent trip their best one yet.

says amusedly. “People are so hilarious. I personally

“They were going to the museums, they were going

don’t like seeing a lot of car exhaust pipes.”

to breakfast, the hotel—getting around in a way that’s

Despite some limited negative reaction, however,

climate sustainable and enjoyable,” said Anderson.

bike sharing looks like it’s here to stay. Operators re-

“It’s a whole different way to experience the city.”

port requests from residents and business owners to

In addition to the convenience and fun of bike shar-

expand service to more neighborhoods, and city lead-

ing, there are environmental and health benefits to con-

ers see the potential to reduce pollution and conges-

sider as well. Getting people out of cars and onto bicy-

tion. San Diego City Councilmember David Alvarez, who

cles will not only reduce vehicle emissions (a critical

occasionally uses the service himself, views bike shar-

aspect of the city’s landmark Climate Action Plan) but

ing as the wave of the future.

also help keep people in better shape, reducing the risks of heart disease and other serious ailments.

But of course, as with anything new, haters gonna

“The world is evolving, and we need to be more creative and more supportive of options to allow different modes of transportation to help people get around,”

hate: Despite what seems to be a generally positive

he says.

welcome for bike sharing in San Diego, some detrac-

OFO.COM // MOBIKE.COM // LIMEBIKE.COM // BIRD.COM

FOLLOW US @POTDRIVE sensimag.com MAY 2018 17

the other

California

by CHERI SICARD

Looking for an EXCITING AND INEXPENSIVE VACATION that’s not too far from home?

Why not CRUISE DOWN THE COAST INTO

PHOTOGRAPHS © JOSHPHOTO.NET

MEXICO on a road trip to Ensenada.

18 San Diego MAY 2018

When it comes to quick getaways, CALIFORNIA HAS IT ALL: ELEGANT WINERIES AND HAUTE CUISINE RESTAURANTS. WHITE SANDY BEACHES THAT

GIVE WAY TO SURFING, FISHING, KAYAKING, SNORKELING, AND SCUBA DIVING. GOLFING ASIDE THE SAPPHIRE BLUE PACIFIC. RUGGED OUTDOOR ADVENTURES AND ELEGANT PAMPERING RESORTS. BUT HERE’S A LITTLE SECRET: ALL OF THESE “CALIFORNIA” GETAWAYS AND MORE CAN BE ENJOYED FOR ABOUT HALF THE COST BY DRIVING ABOUT TWO HOURS SOUTH TO ENSENADA, LOCATED IN THE “OTHER CALIFORNIA”—BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO. HERE’S EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW FOR YOUR ROAD TRIP SOUTH OF THE BORDER.

The Road to Ensenada

If you’ve traveled this way in the past, you may have

To get to Ensenada, first cross the border into Mex-

fond memories of stopping in the village of Puerto

ico at San Ysidro (San Diego), then immediately (and

Nuevo, just south of Rosarito, for one of their famous

I do mean immediately) stay to the right and follow

lobster dinners. While the fame lingers, the lobsters

signs towards Playas de Tijuana and Rosarito Cuota.

in this area have long been fished out and are now

Doing so allows you to bypass the congested Tijuana

imported. To avoid the tourist trap, travel about 13

city streets entirely.

miles south to La Misión/La Fonda instead and visit

Next, follow the road until you see signs for Rosari-

Dmitri’s Original La Fonda restaurant. The food is bet-

to/Ensenada Cuota. Cuota refers to the toll road, a

ter, and the romantic setting overlooking the crash-

well-maintained two-lane highway that will take you

ing waves below beats anything in Puerto Nuevo.

all the way to Ensenada. In between a few towns, vil-

Those looking for an upscale golf and spa resort ex-

lages, and condominium resort complexes, the cuota

perience should stop about 13 miles south of La Mis-

winds along rocky beach cliffs above awe-inspiring

ión (25 miles north of Ensenada) at Bajamar. The same

Pacific panoramas. Like nearly all businesses in this

views that tempted you to take your eyes off the road

region, the toll road accepts either pesos or dollars.

can now be leisurely enjoyed while challenging your-

Combined tolls at the three stops en route to Ensena-

self on this oceanside championship course. If you go

da amount to about $6.

midweek, you’ll have the links practically to yourself. sensimag.com MAY 2018 19

including the worn, weathered plank floors, the paintings and photos of Ensenada’s early days, and the strong drinks. It is said that the city was practically built around this historic bar. Locals and tourists alike gather and mingle here, so it’s always fun, festive, noisy, and crowded.

If nearby nightlife is not a priority, you can find quieter, more relaxing accommodations staying outside of the city along the beaches of Punta Banda and La Bufadora or in the mountains of the Valle de Guadalupe Wine Country. Either area makes for a good day trip from the other, so try to make time for both.

Baja Beach Life Punta Banda, a lazy little village between Ensenada and La Bufadora, makes a great beachfront home base.

Even in the height of summer, the long stretches of white sand beaches in Punta Banda are never crowded.

Those on a tight budget can even tent camp or park their RV oceanfront at the La Jolla Beach Camp. Otherwise, your best bet is to hop on a site like AirB&B and look for a home to rent—they’re usually half the price or less of similar beachside digs in the states and come in sizes to meet any group’s needs.

Besides swimming and sunbathing, you can catch your dinner while on a deep sea fishing charter, take a leisurely scenic horseback ride along the shore, or Arriving in Ensenada Upon entering the city of Ensenada, follow signs to the right towards the Zona Turistica (tourist zone),

enjoy a bird’s-eye view of everything on an exciting ultralight plane ride. For a unique perspective on local marine life, try a guided kayaking or diving trip.

which will deposit you in the harbor area. If you enjoy

Just a few miles down the road from Punta Banda,

city life, the Best Western El Cid Hotel is an excellent

you’ll encounter one of Mexico’s most famous natural

midpriced port area option within walking distance

wonders. Tourists from all over the country, along with

of parks, museums, shopping, restaurants, and the

hoards of cruise ship passengers bussed in from the

thriving nightlife. As enormous cruise ships contin-

port in Ensenada, make pilgrimages to La Bufadora (The

ually drop off visitors here, the area is always bustling.

Blowhole). About every minute or so, ocean waves fun-

While in town, be sure to have a meal at Ensenada’s

neled through a sea cave create a natural marine gey-

most famous eatery, La Guerrerense. Not a restaurant

ser that explosively cannons water as high as 100 feet

in the traditional sense, this seafood cart has attract-

into the air to the awed delight of the crowds. Go at high

ed street food lovers from all over the world, includ-

tide for the best views. Depending on the time of year,

ing celebrity chefs like Anthony Bourdain, Rick Bay-

it’s not unusual to see migrating gray whales from the

less, and Eric Ripert, who come to enjoy the

cliffs overlooking the ocean here, and you can shop for

freshly-shucked Mexican style seafood cocktails

Mexican handicrafts and souvenirs of all kinds at the

and ceviche tostadas. In a town filled with mariscos

stalls lining the path to La Bufadora any time of year.

(seafood) carts, owner Sabina Bandera’s incomparable salsas are what makes this one so memorable.

Valle de Guadalupe Wine Country

After you eat, stroll over to Hussong's Cantina for

When it’s time to take a break from the beach, you

one of their famous margaritas. Little has changed at

can drive over to the Valle de Guadalupe wine coun-

Hussongs since its founding over a century ago in 1892,

try, less than an hour away. Motoring along the Ruta

20 San Diego MAY 2018

sensimag.com MAY 2018 21

MEXICO DRIVING { TIPS }

You are required to buy a Mexican insurance policy for your vehicle. You can do this online ahead of time or find a vendor on the US side of the border; either method is quick, easy, and inexpensive.

Keep your toll road receipts while on the road as the fees also cover free roadside assistance should you break down.

Traffic lights in Mexico flash green, then turn yellow, then red, giving motorists plenty of time to come to a stop.

Nonetheless, people regularly blow through red lights, so check your rearview mirror before slamming on the brakes.

A slow moving vehicle with his left turn signal on is not necessarily indicating a desire to turn left, more often than not he is telling the traffic behind him to pass.

Even on the highways, it is not uncommon to see pedestrians on the road.

When not on the toll road, watch out for potholes and small semi-hidden stop (alto) signs at places where there is no apparent need for a stop sign. They are not reflective, so they’re especially easy to miss at night.

Dirt roads in Mexico do lead places, and some of the places you might want to visit may be down substantial stretches of dirt road.

22 San Diego MAY 2018

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del Vino, you’ll spot frequent signage alerting you to the various vineyards and tasting rooms down the side roads. Over 140 wineries call the valle home, many with on-site restaurants. Since the options can

BORDER

crossing

be overwhelming, I asked local expert Arturo Horta Meza of Baja Vacation Planners for advice in picking the top three, not-to-be-missed wineries for those who only have limited time to visit a few. (Arturo has been conducting winery tours in the valley for years. In fact, his family’s second vacation home, Casa Encinares, has even been converted into a romantic bed-andbreakfast/event space in this magical, forested wine country setting.) His recommendations are: Clos de Tres Cantos: For about $9, you can taste four different wines accompanied by cheese. A great value, as well as beautiful architecture and an interesting tour.

Decantos: With a large outdoor terrace, Decantos makes a great place to relax and enjoy some appetizers and a bottle of wine while gazing at the vineyard-covered rolling hills.

Vena Cava: The delightful architecture made from recycled materials (for instance, the roof is made from three upside-down boats) is worth the visit alone, but they also make quality wines. Plus, the winery shares

tips

THE BORDER AT SAN YSIDRO (SAN DIEGO) IS THE BUSIEST LAND BORDER CROSSING IN THE WORLD. HERE ARE SOME THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: >> The

wait going into Mexico is almost always short. Most cars are not even stopped, and unless yours is one of the few randomly selected for secondary inspection, you won't have to show your passport. >> If you are traveling in an RV, more often than not you will be

sent to inspection, and you will have to show your passports and get a tourist visa (obtainable in advance online or on the spot at the border). If you plan on staying for more than three days, you should also get a tourist visa.

The final component of a great getaway is of course

back into the US from Mexico is a different story and timing matters. Wait times at peak hours can stretch to over six hours, especially after a holiday weekend. Time your border crossing accordingly. Most mornings, aside from Sunday, take about an hour. Friday afternoons you can often get through in about 15 minutes.

cannabis. I don’t recommend carrying cannabis across

>> Technically a passport is required, but I know people who go

its space with Troika, a well-rated food truck serving upscale street food, such as octopus tostadas, truffle fries, and freshly harvested grilled vegetables.

Mota in Mexico

the border—in either direction. Marijuana (or mota) is illegal in Mexico, though small amounts for personal use is decriminalized and it’s widely tolerated in this part of Baja—if you are discreet about it. Legalities aside, mota is easy to find for those who want it, just ask any of the vendors selling glass pipes in the tourist areas. Most are happy to sell you the pipes prefilled, although quality might be less than what Californians have come to expect. Better cannabis is around, but it may take some digging. A 420-friendly travel planner

>> Entering

back and forth all the time with just a California driver’s license. >> The

wait in line at the border can be quite entertaining, as an entire economy thrives on serving the captive audience of commuters. You can pick up last minute souvenirs, enjoy snacks like hot churros or freshly squeezed juices, or even order a meal from nearby restaurants and have it delivered right to your car: peruse the menu, pay, and the delivery guy will find your vehicle in line. I’ve never known anyone burned by the system—the food always arrives.

like Baja Vacation Planners can give you advice on this

>> Carrying cannabis across the border in either direction is ille-

and will even help you find 420-friendly lodgings.

gal and I do not advise it. That said, if you are intent on bringing cannabis into Mexico, bring only the amount you are going to use while there. Hide it well, don’t arrive in a car smelling of weed, and most times there will be no issues. If you have any leftovers, leave them behind, as your risks and chances of being searched are far greater going back into the US.

Follow the information and advice I’ve outlined above, as well as the accompanying driving and border crossing tips (see sidebars), and you can enjoy a safe, fun and inexpensive vacation along the Mexican coast.

For more info, visit: BAJAVACATIONPLANNER.COM // LAJOLLABEACHCAMP.COM 24 San Diego MAY 2018

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sensimag.com MAY 2018 25

by JARED SCLAR

a

f i southof water FORMER HEALTHCARE EXECUTIVE

Lincoln Fish

BRINGS HIS ENTREPRENEURIAL ACUMEN TO THE SAN DIEGO CANNABIS SPACE. First opened in 2014, Outliers Collective—or OutCo,

of San Diego, and in 1986 founded a company called

for short—is the first legally licensed medical mari-

Real Health Laboratories—a nutraceutical company

juana dispensary in San Diego County. Located just

that to this day manufactures the top prostate health

outside the city of El Cajon, its headquarters houses

supplement in America. Since then, he’s started sev-

not only the dispensary but an entire in-house, seed-

eral other companies, most notably a healthcare tech-

to-sale cannabis supply-chain—allowing OutCo to

nology venture based in San Diego’s Mission Valley

grow around 50 percent of its cannabis supply right

called Benchmark Revenue Management. A pioneer

on property. This kind of forward-thinking vertical

in the field of healthcare workflow technology, Bench-

integration and quality control has not only helped

mark eventually merged with Illinois-based Avadyne

make OutCo one of the area’s most popular collec-

Health, growing into a $50 million healthcare admin-

tives, it's also made the company’s CEO Lincoln Fish

istration firm with over 400 employees. After the merg-

a rising star in the cannabis space. Unlike many of

er, Fish stayed on as the firm’s senior vice president

today’s top pot moguls, however, Fish didn’t take the

of sales and marketing. His work in the field eventu-

traditional route to canna-business: He was never a

ally earned him national recognition when he was

free spirit living out of his 1992 Astro Van in Santa

named Person of the Year by the Healthcare Informa-

Cruz where he decided to turn his passion for pot

tion Management Systems Society a few years ago.

into a career. To the contrary, Fish—or “Linc,” as he's

Despite his success, however, Fish confesses he be-

universally known on the San Diego cannabis

gan to feel a bit bored and unfulfilled at the company

scene—has been an entrepreneur for upwards of

he’d help build.

three decades.

As it happened, it was around this same time that

Fish began his career at the prestigious Wharton

a friend approached Fish about possibly getting in-

School of Finance and Commerce at the University of

volved with his new venture, a cannabis dispensary

Pennsylvania. When asked if his former school would

called Outliers Collective. Initially, Fish was reluc-

approve of his current endeavor, he says he believes

tant to enter this new and uncertain field. But while

his professors would be less concerned with how he

pondering the decision, the forces of fate seemed to

was making money than if he was making money, so

step in.

long as he was doing so legally. “Wharton is first and

“I don’t really believe in signs, but I woke up five

foremost about capitalism,” Fish explains. “I think the

mornings in a row, and I swear to God, when I looked

vast majority of Wharton professors would say, ‘Okay,

at the clock each time, it was exactly 4:20 a.m.” he re-

how do we do this? How do we make it work and make

calls incredulously. “Five mornings in a row!”

it profitable?’”

After graduation, Fish returned to his hometown 26 San Diego MAY 2018

Heeding the perceived omen, his skepticism began to fade, and after doing a lot of research on the

sensimag.com MAY 2018 27

industry he decided to jump in. Since making the

jon, they are technically located within just such an

life-changing leap from healthcare to cannabis, Fish

area, which leaves the company at the mercy of that

says he has no regrets.

all-Republican and largely prohibitionist Board of

"I was one of the people who started that company

Supervisors. That means that the only way that Out-

and I enjoyed the work we were doing. However, things

Co will be able to continue operating past 2022 is if

move very slowly in the healthcare field. Hospitals are

the three members of the board vote to overturn the

slow to make changes, and they know it. One of the

existing ban.

good things about cannabis is that it’s evolving right

Now, with so much at stake, Fish—who has never

now and we have a chance to make a difference in how

been very politically active before, beyond being the

it evolves, to change the way this industry looks and

chairman of a charter school—is taking a more active

the way it’s perceived in the world. Having a faster,

role in the local political process.

more effective way of making changes in the world— that’s exciting to me.”

“I have great admiration for those who dedicate themselves to public service, but my passion has al-

While continuing to improve upon the dispensary,

ways been producing things,” he explains. “However,

Fish and his team have subsequently begun working

this issue has been too glossed over by politicians.

to vertically integrate the brand by expanding entre-

Too many in power just want the issue of cannabis to

preneurial efforts into the realms of cultivation, man-

go away, so instead I'm supporting candidates who

ufacturing, and extraction under the name OutCo Lab-

are saying, ‘Wait a minute—let's wake up to this. This

oratories. Though it started out as a retail-only

is important, and it's something we can get behind

operation, the company has also held licenses for cul-

and need to see done the right way.'"

tivation and manufacturing since its inception. Op-

Which is precisely why Fish has thrown his sup-

erations expanded to include manufacturing in Jan-

port behind pro-cannabis Democrat Nathan Fletcher.

uary 2016 and then on-site cultivation in August of

Thanks to recently enacted new term limits, the Coun-

that same year.

ty Board will be entirely replaced by 2020. This No-

The institution of Proposition 64, however, has

vember, the office of District 4 Supervisor (currently

placed OutCo's El Cajon location in a tenuous posi-

held by Republican Ron Roberts) is up for grabs, and

tion: While the city of San Diego has adopted some of

Fletcher is vying for the seat. To win it, he'll need to

the most progressive cannabis policies of any of Cal-

beat three fellow Democrats in the primary, as well

ifornia’s municipalities, San Diego County has taken

as the well-funded prohibitionist Republican candi-

a far different approach to the issue. Considered its

date, former District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis. For-

own municipality that’s governed by the Board of Su-

tunately, Fletcher seems more than up to the task: His

pervisors as a legislative and quasi-judicial body,

service to the country as both a US marine and an as-

the county has placed a ban on any commercial can-

semblyman, as well as his extraordinary understand-

nabis activity in all of its unincorporated areas. This

ing of the cannabis issue, have earned him not only

requires any cannabis businesses currently operat-

Fish's endorsement but also the endorsement of the As-

ing in those areas to shut down by 2022. And unfortu-

sociation of Cannabis Professionals, a San Diego-based

nately, though the addresses of OutCo’s retail and

advocacy group of which OutCo is a member.

manufacturing facilities are listed as being in El Ca28 San Diego MAY 2018

Despite these challenges ahead, or perhaps be-

cause of them, Fish is stepping up and

branded products.”

putting his money where his mouth is to

A few short years ago, Lincoln Fish was a health-

help propel Fletcher and other pro-can-

care executive who had never smoked marijuana

nabis candidates to victory this election

and never been involved in activism. Today, he’s re-

cycle, though he’s hesitant to assign a

garded as a leader in Southern California’s cannabis

specific dollar amount to the effort. “As

industry and is one of the biggest donors and advo-

far as how much money I’m going to

cates in several local political campaigns. So far, in

spend, I’m not sure—I haven’t set up a

his short tenure on the political scene, he’s demon-

budget yet. But I could see us spending

strating as much prowess in the public sector as he

quite a bit on it.”

has in his previous ventures, bringing a polished,

That said, Fish isn’t putting all of his

business-minded approach to the politics of canna-

eggs into one basket. The company, he

bis. Fish’s career has jumped from field to field based

says, is currently in the process of expanding into

on his changing interests, leading one to wonder

new, pro-pot territories.

whether he plans to dedicate the rest of his profes-

“In Long Beach, we’re currently building two culti-

sional career to cannabis..

vation sites, and we have a 10,000-square-foot facility

“I can certainly see this being the last big profes-

with distribution and another 22,000 footer with man-

sional push of my career because it’s so exciting,” he

ufacturing, all in various stages of approval,” he boasts.

predicts. “I see this industry going through massive

“We’re also closing on a light deprivation greenhouse

changes, year after year, for the next couple of de-

and nursery in Mendocino and are bringing on addi-

cades. It may not always be cultivation and manufac-

tional team members for expanding into central and

turing—it may be helping other companies get start-

Northern California. Plus, we recently launched the

ed. But I believe in what I’m doing, so I can definitely

Ricky Williams line and are getting more involved in

see myself staying here.”

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The

SOCAL LAUNCH TOUR SCENE

What: Sensi San Diego Launch Party Where: Lafayette Hotel When: March 16, 2018

This March, Sensi embarked on a three-day, three-city tour to celebrate the launch of three new SoCal editions with epic events featuring entertainment by DJ Lord of Prophets of Rage. The tour’s grand finale took place on Friday night at the historic Lafayette Hotel in North Park, where around 45 top cannabis brands gathered to show off their products and services. Throughout the party, more than a thousand revel-

DJ Lord at the turntables

ers came out to toast to the arrival of the new normal on the © PHOTOS BY AMANDA MCCARVER

West Coast and to celebrate the spread of legalization across the nation. The event also featured live painting by Linzy Miggantz of Linzy’s HeART-Work, music by MC Flow, and other fun surprises. For more photos and a video recap of the festivities, head to facebook.com/sensimediagroup.

Seed Vault of California

Sensi Contributor April Price with Undoo’s Jimmy Joints

Artist Linzy Miggantz of Linzy’s HeART-Work

Two Roots Brewing

Honey Tree Medicinals

30 San Diego MAY 2018

The Artemis team

Pita Pit

Jetty Extracts

Therapy Tonics

Candidate for Sheriff Dave Myers

sensimag.com MAY 2018 31

{soSD}

by A.J. HERRINGTON

Suspension of Disbelief Designed by engineer Edwin Capps, the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge was built by the City of San Diego in 1912 to provide residents of the Bankers Hill neighborhood access to the trolley lines that ran up and down Fourth and Fifth Avenues at the time.

To this day, it still serves as a convenient pedestrian bypass over the canyon, as well as a picturesque spot for a little urban adventure. The faint of heart might want to steer clear, though: Despite the fact that the steel cables suspending the pathway are securely anchored in concrete at each end, a stiff breeze is still likely to cause this historic footbridge to gently sway over the canyon floor, which is a dizzying 70 feet below. For those who are not acrophobically challenged, however, the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge can be found just west of Front Street on W. Spruce Street and is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

32 San Diego MAY 2018

sensimag.com MAY 2018 3