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A Positive Community Newspaper Created by Locals, for Locals, Supporting Local Businesses
Vol 1. No. 3 - No. October/November 2015 Vol.1 3 - Octoboer 2015
www.MidCityNewspaperGroup.com
Megan’s Message Megan Beauvais, Realtor® CalBRE #01426805 Ascent Real Estate
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hoosing a homeowners insurance policy is an inherent part of the home buying process. Clients and friends seem to have so many questions about what they should look out for. I have listened to my audience and since you asked, I want to deliver! In speaking to my trusted insurance adviser, BethAnn Alitt with Alitt Insurance Agency whom I have known for many years, she gave me a great list of “Do’s and Don’ts” when it comes to choosing an insurance company and policy. According to BethAnn, here are important things to look out for… A big do is: DO understand your coverage! A big don’t is DON’T be underinsured. DO’s : DO get the proper coverage for your home. Older homes need specialized coverage (such as increased building codes and coverage tailored to replace vintage home characteristics such as coved ceilings, lathe and plaster walls, built in cabinetry, custom milled wood working...which is often found in our particular area). DO let your insurance agent know when you are starting a renovation, remodel or add something such as AC or solar panels. These may need to be added and coverage adjusted to provide adequate coverage. DO pick an insurance agent that can shop different carriers for your insurance. There are many carriers and some specialize in niche markets and can offer coverage tailored for such things as an older home, a home with a brush or wildfire exposure, a home with restrictive dog breeds, condos, etc. No carrier does every policy the same and some are better than others for what you may need.
DO know the difference between what is considered a FLOOD and what is not. The FLOOD definition for insurance is HUGELY different than the regular definition. EX: your water heater breaks and your home is ‘flooded’ with water. This is NOT considered a FLOOD for insurance purposes. This is a non - weather water loss, and would be normally covered under a regular home policy. EX 2: there is a huge downpour and water is streaming down your street. It comes onto your property and into your home, ‘flooding’ the home. This IS a flood under the insurance definition. However, for this to be a covered loss, you need to have 1) FLOOD insurance and 2) the water needs to damage 5 acres or more. If only your home is damaged, there would be no coverage...even with FLOOD insurance. DO know the difference between earth movement and an earthquake? Earth-movement is not a covered loss under any regular or EQ policy. Earthquake is covered under an EQ policy. An earthquake policy will also have a separate deductible and different coverage amounts than your regular home policy. Dont’s: Don’t skimp on your home coverage. Homes are usually the biggest investment a person or family makes. Get the best coverage you can and perhaps get a higher deductible to offset the premium. The higher the deductible the lower the overall cost. It is better to pay a $5000 deductible and have included the correct amount of let’s say building codes coverage, than to pay a $1,000 deductible and have to pay $20000 or more out of pocket for the extra coverage you didn’t carry as you felt it was too much money. A deductible is a set amount ($1k, $1500, $2500, etc) but the cost to repair a home that does not have the proper coverage can be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Don’t skimp on liability. Protect your assets. The cost difference between $100,000 and $300,000 is about $45 annually. If you have a liability claim, and are underinsured, the other party can sue you, garnish your wages, attach a lien on your home and make the rest of your life miserable. Get good coverage. Don’t assume something is covered. Ask if you are unsure. Earthquake, flood and mortgage insurance are NOT included in a standard home insurance policy. These are extra! Always be sure to choose an agent that will fully explain your coverage. Insurance is difficult to understand and in my personal experience Beth Ann has always done a great job in explaining my coverage. If you have questions or would like more information give me a call! I would love to put you in touch with Alitt Insurance Agency, Inc.
MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR
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ohn Royal and is wife moved to Talmadge in 1998 from Allied Gardens, where John grew up. They moved here pre-kids and have been enjoying raising their two boys in this eclectic, diverse community. They live in the only Victorian in Talmadge, which was moved to its current site in 1947 from Cortez Hill. On raising a family and how he enjoys quality of life in Talmadge, John states, “Talmadge offers an environment where people seem interested in fostering neighborly relationships with each other. I also find that the eclectic surroundings provides people an opportunity to be free to do whatever they want architecturally, making our surroundings so interesting. Everyone seems to embrace that freedom, as compared to a cookie cutter neighborhood where all the floorplans and house colors are the same.” When their children became school aged, they learned of school options through other Talmadge parents and ultimately participated in a lottery at 4 schools through the Choice program. Their children have attend Benchley Weinberger(a tuition-free magnet school through the San Diego Unified School District, with a focus on global media and artistic communication) in San Carlos, and their oldest is now at Lewis Middle School (John’s Alma Mater). They have been extremely pleased with the education, friendships developed, and experiences their children have had at both schools and find them both to be an easy commute from Talmadge. John is self-employed and owns Royal Environmental Services (RoyalEnvironmental@cox.net, 619-985-6363), which provides environmental consulting to commercial property owners with redevelopment and environmental compliance needs. John and his wife have been involved in many committees over the years including the Block Party Committee (his wife is a past Chair of the committee and an ongoing avid supporter, and John has served as a committee member and a co-chair throughout the years), and he also volunteers with Talmadge Patrol, is a TMAD past chair and current elected member, and volunteers scheduled Saturday mornings with the Patrol eradicating graffiti in the alleys. In his free time (at 5:30 in the morning) you can find John running in the neighborhood and occasionally at the Mud Run at Camp Pendleton. If you see John out and about the neighborhood, please say “hi”! You are sure to be greeted with a hearty “Hello”!
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OCTOBER HAPPENINGS In and Around San Diego!
Bates Nut Farm Sept. 24-Oct. 31 Bates Nut Farm in Valley Center has been a Pumpkin Patch staple in San Diego for decades (the Bates family has owned the farm since 1921). Bates has plenty of pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, tractor hayrides, a straw maze, pony rides and a petting zoo. Time/Place: See website for schedule / 15954 Woods Valley Road, Valley Center, CA 92082 Contact: (800) 642-0348/ http:// batesnutfarm.biz/ce-12074-thepumpkin-patch.html The Haunted Hotel Sept. 25-Nov. 1 Spine tingling, heart pounding effects that are so real they will keep you screaming for your life as you try to find your way out. Time/Place: See website for schedule. / 424 Market, San Diego
Contact: (619) 231-0131 / www. hauntedhotel.com The Haunted Trail Sept. 25-Nov. 1 Enter the mile long Trail through the twisted grove of pines and gnarled oaks. Visitors watch your back! Time/Place: See website for schedule. / Balboa Park Contact: (619) 231-0131 / www. hauntedtrail.net
16th Annual Oma’s Pumpkin Patch Sept. 29-Oct. 31 Oma’s Pumpkin Patch offers fun for the whole family. The child admission includes a Jack Patch pumpkin, a bottle of water, covered hay rides, a hay bale maze, petting corral, kid-powered games and sand pile with toy trucks & tractors. Time/Place: See website for schedule Contact: www.omaspumpkinpatch. com/
The Scream Zone Sept 25-Nov. 1 A year-to-year favorite is the House of Horror, along with our newest attraction known as KarnEvil, and the Haunted Hayride. Time/Place: See website for schedule. / Del Mar Fairgrounds Contact: (858) 755-1161 / www. thescreamzone.com
RISE of the Jack O’Lanterns Oct. 2-25 Come see more than 5,000 handcarved illuminated jack o’lanterns created by professional artists and sculptors arranged in creative ways along a 1/3-mile scenic walking trail. Time/Place: See website for schedule. / San Diego Zoo Safari Park: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido Contact: (516) 252-3392 / www. therise.org
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BUSINESS
Pink and White Nail & Spa
STORY AND PHOTOS BY DELLE WILLETT
Setting new standards in cleanliness and customer service To the delight of business folks and residents of North Park, the Pink and White Nail & Spa opened at 2660 North Park Way on July 17. The comments that immediately popped up on Yelp tell it all: “Best all-around customer service EVER. I enjoyed my complimentary champagne as I got my mani/pedi by Kim in their EXTREMELY comfortable spa chair. She did an awesome job and made sure I was satisfied with my nail design that she free-handed before she let me leave. Their prices are reasonable and my experience makes it well worth every penny. They also offer free Wi Fi service to their customers. I will definitely be coming back here more often.” — Helene L., San Diego. “I’ve been going to a nail salon in Point Loma for years but since this place opened up near my house I decided to give them a try. I have to say that on top of having the best decor and environment of any salon I’ve been in over the years, they are all about the EXPERIENCE! “Kim did my gel nails and she did such an amazing job on top of being extremely friendly and easy to talk with. The others there were offering me hot neck wraps and something to drink. They offer complimentary coffee, wine, & even beer! While the prices are a little more expensive than my other salon it is well worth it for the EXPERIENCE! I will definitely be going back and bringing my best girl-
Theresa Carter from Del Mar, a customer who has followed Vivian around from one salon to the other for seven years, stands with Vivian Nguyen and Linda Nguyen.
friends to have our nails done while sipping on some wine and beer! I highly recommend this salon and look forward to going back again soon.” — Kristina M. San Diego. Six family members and one friend teamed up about a year ago to make this five-star spa dream come true: cousins Linda and Vivian Nguyen; sisters Thuy and Kathy Nguyen; brother Khang Nguyen; and family friend Ger Vang. Linda and Vivian are managing the spa with the vision of setting a new level of standards in cleanliness and customer experience; challenging all other spas and salons to rise to that higher level. Linda, 32, brings a corporate back-
ground and knows how to make employees happy; Vivian has 20 years of experience in the salon business and knows how to make her customers happy. “Through our partnership we are able to fulfill our passion: to treat our employees and customers right, to set high standards and to keep our spa spic and span,” said Linda. Cleanliness and health are their primary concerns. “We clean with hospital-grade solutions. We take every precaution to make sure our customers don’t get any infections,” said A large array of polishes for sale. Vivian, who keeps up with all trade medical information. they can give the best possible experi“When you come through our ence to my customers. And I want my doors you won’t smell chemicals. We customers to know what sanitation use organic products and the highest standards to expect and how they can grade acrylic powder, with no harmful communicate with nail technicians for ingredients.” the best results if they go on to other For young kids they use Piggy Paint, salons.” a water-based polish with no harmful For Vivian and Linda, sharing their chemicals. skills and knowledge came from Vivian, who was born in Vietnam, examples set by their parents. Linda’s went through esthetician training 20 and Vivian’s fathers are brothers, part years ago and has continued to learn of a family of Vietnamese boatpeople everything she can through trade who found their way to San Diego in shows, trade journals, advanced classes the early ’80s, bringing with them and experimentation, and she gener- strong family values. ously shares her knowledge. In a new country, much different “Most nail technicians and salon than the one they came from, “We owners don’t share their skills or learned to love and help each other advice with others for fear of losing and share our love with others. To customers,” said Vivian. “I don’t think remember where we came from, to that way. I want my employees to value people who come from different know everything I have learned so places. To be thankful to have a place to call home. To never forget the power of money that goes very far to help people from third-world countries,” said Linda. Their parents instilled in them that whatever they have and whatever they share will come back to them in health and happiness. “For me, if I make a dollar, I don’t want to spend that one dollar just for me, I want to spend it to help other people, too,” said Vivian. To this end the salon has selected two cancer-related organizations as their charities to support, giving 2 percent of the October income to the Susan G. Komen Research and 2 percent of November to Children’s Hospital Foundation. They want to give back and let their customers know that they aren’t just here to make a quick dollar. Over the last 20 years Vivian has developed a loyal following. She has clients who come to her regularly from Arizona, Del Mar, Fallbrook, Temecula, Anaheim, San Francisco, Walnut
Practicing nail designs.
Creek, and even England. On YELP, Antonette B. of San Diego says, “So happy Vivian runs this place! Been with her no matter where she is for 10 years now! I drive all the way from Oceanside just for her. The salon is super clean, classy, and definitely relaxing. V always puts her customers first and that’s what she trains everyone here to do. And they serve wine so you can enjoy your ‘me’ time.” Vivian’s success also comes from her awareness of her clients. “I can tell a lot about my clients just by looking at them when they walk in the door. I look at their skin tones, their hair, their makeup and what colors they are wearing. What mood they are in. We might talk about what colors they have in their closet,” said Vivian. All of these things tell her what’s good for them and ensures they are happy when they walk out the door. Unlike many personal-service providers, Vivian encourages her customers to be “picky.” That way she knows what her customer wants. She’s also not averse to telling a customer that their choice of colors isn’t the best for them. She also wants them to set aside an hour and a half for their appointment, giving them plenty of time to enjoy the spa experience and leave relaxed and refreshed. “Life is crazy. Just think of this as a mini getaway,” she said. SPA services include manicures and pedicures; Selfies (facials); Lashes; “Me Time”; “For Him”; Waxing; and “Pedicures and Pampering,” a 2.5-hour experience with just six openings per session. For more information on services and special events, see pinkandwhitenailspa.com. To reserve your experience, call (619) 550.5830
SHOP LOCAL
The Benefits of Shopping and Buying Local In the smallest towns, bustling cities, and everything in between, citizens lament losing a sense of community and local character. Meanwhile, national chains and online megastores continue gaining market and pushing independent businesses to the margins in many sectors. This trend is considered symptomatic of our loss of community orientation, but could it also be a primary cause? And what are the economic costs to our communities as absenteeowned corporations displace locally-owned businesses? Of course, we usually choose to do business where we perceive the best value for our time and money. But in an age where we’re bombarded with thousands of corporate advertisements daily, perceptions may differ widely from reality. The unrelenting emphasis on cheapness above all other values leads many people to overlook the values independent businesses provide us, both personally and in our communities. The disappearance of local businesses leaves a social and economic void that is palpable and real — even when it goes unmeasured. And a community’s quality of life changes in ways that macroeconomics is slow to measure, or ignores completely. Local officials often fall for the seductions and political appeal of national chains and may even use public funds or tax rebates to lure them. They’re baited with promises of jobs and tax revenue, but they often fail to consider the greater losses that occur when the local business base is undermined. A chain “superstore” may boast of creating 300 new jobs, but numerous studies indicate they displace as many jobs as they create. And when communities like Barnstable, Mass. studied the fiscal impact of chains, they concluded such development actually costs more taxpayer dollars to support in safety and services than the community would reap. In other words, when new big box chains come to town, expect to pay more taxes soon. But what about all the new sales tax revenue those chains bring? That, too, is largely illusory. Unless an area is growing rapidly, retail spending (especially for mass-produced items found at the chains) is a relatively fixed pie. For example, the most thorough study of Walmart’s impact on existing retailers (by Dr. Kenneth Stone of Iowa State University) found that 84 percent of Walmart’s sales simply shifted dollars away from existing local (including some chains) retailers. Economic Value of Independent Businesses Independent local businesses employ an
array of supporting services by “buying locally” themselves. They hire architects, designers, cabinet shops, sign makers and contractors for construction. Local accountants, insurance brokers, computer consultants, attorneys, advertising agencies help run it. Local retailers and distributors also carry a higher percentage of locally-produced goods than chains, meaning more jobs for local producers. In contrast, a new chain store typically is a clone of other units, eliminates the need for local planning, and uses a minimum of local goods and services. A company-owned store’s profits promptly are exported to corporate headquarters. That’s simply good, efficient business for
them, but not so good for our communities. Dollars spent at community-based merchants create a multiplier in the local economy, meaning that from each dollar spent at a local independent merchant, 2 to 3.5 recirculates in the local economy compared to a dollar spent at chain-owned businesses. This “local multiplier effect” means shifting more local purchasing to independent businesses is a key tool for creating more local jobs. Ensuring Choice and Diversity Retailers sift through competing goods and services to find those appealing to their customers. Though a single local shop likely stocks a smaller selection than can be found online or at large chains, a multiplicity of independent retailers creates great diversity. When thousands of shops serve the preferences of their customers tastes (and reflect different owner’s interests), market opportunities are created for a wide variety of goods and services. As fewer giant corporations dominate production, distribution and sales, a few executives and buyers choose
MID CITY NEWSPAPER GROUP | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 |
BY JEFF MILCHEN
what reaches customers. Maintaining Community Character When we’re asked to name our favorite restaurant, cafe, or shop, it’s invariably a unique local business. Your local paper’s “Best of” poll is proof. Those businesses define our sense of place, but we often forget their survival depends on our patronage. Local owners, typically having invested much of their life savings in their businesses, have a natural interest in the community’s long-term health. Community-based businesses are essential to charitable endeavors; their owners frequently serve on local boards and support numerous causes. Yes, some chains give back to towns in which they locate, and not all local businesses are exemplary models. However, the overall impacts are clear: locally-owned businesses play a key role in our community that chains rarely do. Despite the dismal trends, a counterforce is building. More than 85 communities have launched Independent Business Alliances — coalitions of local businesses, nonprofits and concerned citizens uniting to support local entrepreneurs and prevent the loss of communityrooted businesses. These alliances typically facilitate group purchasing, joint marketing, political advocacy and ongoing public education campaigns. They’ve succeeded in a diverse range of communities and are driving major shifts in local culture and spending. In some communities, chambers and downtown organizations unafraid to promote buying locally from independents fulfill this role, too. The success of such community organizations bodes well for a growing Localization Movement that is reawakening people to the value of local selfreliance and cohesive communities. But for long-term progress, a conceptual change also is necessary. We must consciously plan that future with rules encouraging the values we want reflected in our communities. And each time we spend a dollar, we would do well to weigh the full value of our choices, not merely today, but for the future we want for our home towns. The author, Jeff Milchen, co-founded the first Independent Business Alliance in 1997 and codirects the American Independent Business Alliance (AMIBA).
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Ask Dr. Z What causes menstrual cramps and what can I do about them? The uterus is a very large and powerful muscle, and when it contracts, it stimulates the nerves in the pelvis and it registers as pain. When the hormones drop to low levels at the end of a menstrual cycle, it stimulates certain chemicals that cause inflammation, which in turn causes the uterus to contract. These chemicals are cytokines and prostaglandins. These are the same chemicals that can cause fevers, and are stopped by anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen or aspirin. One sure fire way to help cramps is what I call the “rule of 3” — 3 standard 200 mg Motrin (Ibuprofen), 3 times a day for 3 days. If you start at the beginning of the cramping, it should keep it at a minimum without stopping it altogether. What are warts and how do I get rid of them?? Warts are a viral infection of the skin that causes the skin to grow around it in a protective shell. It causes a type of callus surrounding the center virus. It makes blood vessels grow in the center to feed it, which is why the center is dark. Because it has a nice ball of skin that protrudes, ones on the feet can hurt just like walking with a rock in your shoe. The way to get rid of it is to destroy the skin that surrounds it and the blood vessels that feed it. Dermatologists can cut it out, but most of us can handle it at home. Freezing the skin can work, but usually takes multiple applications of the chemical. You have to freeze all the skin around the wart, and usually that means when you see a flash of white spread out from the freezing applicator. Because you have to freeze UNDER the wart to get rid of it completely, you have to freeze through layer after layer every few days until you are at the bottom. You can use variations of salicylic acid also, to burn it off. This is the Compound W method. Gel and the discs work better. These take longer (up to 2-3 months of daily use) but hurt less. Duct tape is reported to work, but the mechanism is not clear — possibly a chemical in the glue or the fact that a layer of skin comes off with the duct tape when it is removed daily may be the trick. In the old days they would rub it with a cut potato and then bury the potato — but don’t count on it working! Dr. Tara Zandvliet welcomes your questions. Send them to questions@ southparkdoctor.com. She practices at 2991 Kalmia St. Phone: (619) 929-0032.
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NEWS
UCSD-Led Consortium Awarded $13 Million For Autism Stem Cell-Based Technologies The National Institutes of Health has awarded a five-year, $13 million grant to a public-private research consortium to develop and disseminate stem cell-based technologies and assays to study autism spectrum disorder and other mental health diseases. Gene Yeo, an associate professor of cellular and molecular medicine at the UC San Diego School of Medicine, and a founding member of the Institute for Genomic Medicine, is principal investigator on the project. Other collaborators include Alysson Muotri and Larry Goldstein, both of the UCSD School of Medicine; Shelley
Halpain of UCSD’s biology department; and Edward Callaway of the Salk Institute for Biological Studies. Goldstein is also director of both the UCSD Stem Cell Program and Sanford Stem Cell Clinical Center, with which four of the five academic researchers are affiliated. Human induced pluripotent stem cells generated from patient tissue provide a promising cellular resource for understanding genetic and cellular variation in ASD and related disorders because they harbor individual genomic patterns of variation that contribute to or cause these disorders,
the consortium noted in a statement. However, these cells often generate variable findings due to additional differences in the genomic makeup of patient cells. The San Diego researchers hope to overcome these limitations by first introducing disease-relevant genomic variations into a single genomic background, then replicating these technologies across different labs before they are considered robust enough for public distribution. “The idea is to build computational and molecular tools and cellular resources that are open source, accessible, give reproducible results, and are
fundamentally useful to stem cell scientists,” Yeo said in a statement. Private partners in the consortium include Fluidigm and Becton Dickinson’s BD Biosciences unit. “Single-cell methods are key to creation of standardized stem cell-based tools to meet critical mental health needs,” Robert Jones, chief technology officer for genomics at Fluidigm, said in a statement. Jones also noted that the Yeo lab was one of the first test sites for Fluidigm’s C1 single-cell autoprep system, which led to the establishment of a single-cell core facility at the Sanford center.
ADAMS AVENUE NEWS northparknews.biz/digital MidCityNewspaperGroup.com Serving San Diego’s Premier Mid City Communities Chairman/CEO Bob Page BobPage@sandiegometro.com Publisher Rebeca Page RebecaPage@sandiegometro.com Associate Publisher Brad Weber ReachLocals@ MidCityNewspaperGroup.com Editor Manny Cruz Manny@sandiegometro.com Art Director Chris Baker cbaker@sandiegometro.com
Gene Yeo, associate professor at the UCSD School of Medicine, is the principal investigator.
UCSD Medical Center
Writers/Columnists Todd Gloria Bart Mendoza Delle Willett Anna Lee Fleming Sara Wacker
Honors for OLP’s Emily Pippin Director of communications and marketing wins a 40 Under 40 Award from SD METRO Magazine Emily Pippin, the director of communications and marketing for the Academy of Our Lady of Peace, is the winner of a 40 Under 40 Award presented by SD METRO Magazine. The awards, presented annually, honors outstanding San Diegans for their work in business and in the community. A graduate of San Diego State University, Pippin has established a social media presence for the school, created a quarterly magazine, managed and disseminated online communications, planned engaging networking events and acted as the communications representative for outside media outlets. Pippin is on the cutting edge of her generation, pursuing the paths less Pippin with the AOL administrative team.
Marketing/Advertising Kelly Pouliot kellysdnews@gmail.com ------------------------------
Media Consultant Tom Shess Social Media Ali Hunt
traveled within the world of digital communications. She is always helping students with available extracurricular opportunities as well as assisting them in securing scholarships. As a graduate of OLP, she achieved many accolades as a stellar student. She continues her legacy as an employee of San Diego’s only Catholic, college prep school for girls. Pippin works closely with the San Diego community in her daily job duties. She plans, manages, and promotes a wide variety of events for the local community. She also ensures that the successes of both OLP and the innovative and intelligent young women of OLP are shared with the San Diego community.
Photography Manny Cruz Sande Lollis Letters/Opinion Pieces North Park News encourage letters to the editor and guest editorials. Please address correspondence to Manny@sandiegometro.com or mail to Manny Cruz. Please include a phone number, address and name for verification purposes; no anonymous letters will be printed. We reserve the right to edit letters and editorials for brevity and accuracy. Story ideas/Press Releases Do you have an idea for an article you would like to see covered in this newspaper? We welcome your ideas, calendar item listings and press releases. For breaking news, please call us at (619) 287-1865. For all other news items, please email Manny@sandiegometro.com.
Emily Pippin
ADDRESS PO Box 3679, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 PHONE (858) 461-4484 North Park News distributes copies monthly to residents and businesses of North Park, South Park, Golden Hill and Normal Heights. The entire contents of North Park News is copyrighted, 2015, by REP Publishing, Inc. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without prior written consent. All rights reserved.
MID CITY NEWSPAPER GROUP | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 |
MADE IN AMERICA Walking through the Mingei exhibit is to take a journey across the United States by Susan Taylor “Art Belongs to Everyone,” the slogan of Balboa Park’s Mingei International Museum, already sets the tone for the visitor. Its objects are not lofty and royal, overly delicate, nor commented on in hushed voices. In fact, the newest exhibit, “Made in America,” which opened Sept. 19 and will run until Feb. 21, 2016, is seen as an opportunity to start a conversation. Iconic art and craft works are on display, one or more from each of the 50 United States, representing the richness of the American experience. The collection calls out the needs and resources of different regions of the country, as elemental materials are paired with fine workmanship and imagination. Viewers identify and take pride in objects “that belong to them,” created in and for their home state. Rob Sidner, curator of the exhibit, contacted historical societies in various states, researched artists, and rediscovered the iconic craft pieces they have crafted over the years. The idea for the collection had been on his mind for several years after a trip to Hawaii
when he was captivated by the beautiful Great variety is seen wood used to gracefully shape the oars among the crafts; some are used for outrigger canoes. He realized useful, others serve no real that every state could be represented by purpose, some are traditioncrafts that evolve from the “ingredients” al, others contemporary. The within that state: the people’s interests materials and the objects and values, needs, and materials breathe imagination. Consider The Mingei has the cowboy boots styled in always valued art ostrich leather, a few steps away that is exemplary in from a doll made of bone, and form and function. further on, Dale Chihuly’s Explicit in the “Made Celestial Blue Basket Set, in America” gallery which is actually made of are a squash blossom glass. necklace from AriIn the objects created from zona, a Tiffany grass, silver, clay, wood, horn, and bottle vase from cotton, one sees items that New York, the Five delight and amuse, like the Rocking Chair, walnut ebony, 1996. Alta Arctic Shamans Loma, Calif. Gift of the Sam and Alfreda Mal- chair made of cattle horns, belt from Alaska, oof Foundation for Arts and Crafts and the and an Amish Crib Quilt , not Herb Hafif Family Foundation. and cowboy boots baby blue or pink, but from Texas. Walksomberly pieced together of ing through the collection is to take a journey black and gray cloth. across the United States, a crash course in The “Made in America” exhibit highlights geography ,history, and anthropology. a national spirit and unity, much like the
Celestial Blue Basket Set with Carbon Lip Wraps. Glass. Dale Chihuly. Seattle, Wash.
Favrile bottle-shaped vase, blown glass, 1902, New York. (Photo by Lytnon Gardiner)
“Buy American” movement of past decades. It reminds us of the significance of the handmade, individually created art piece, made from indigenous substances and meeting the requirements of perhaps just one individual. Contrast these craft icons with products of the Industrial Revolution, mass-produced, futuristic, touted as time-savers to make life easier. The Mingei International Museum is free to San Diego County residents every third Tuesday of the month. Outreach by the museum extends to school and senior groups. Members enjoy many fine special events such as educational lectures and programs. Experience Café Mingei and the museum store to enhance your visit, and also see what’s on view on the ground floor. At this time, a unique and charming collection of hand-carved walking sticks is on display just beyond the museum lobby. So, venture a guess — what craft is iconic of your state? What materials were used to make it? To find out, visit Mingei. You will be richly rewarded by the experience.
Algonquin Wedding Basket, Billie Ruth Sudduth. North Carolina. (Photo by Ken Condo)
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MUSIC
8 | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 | MID CITY NEWSPAPER GROUP
The San Diego Conscious Music Fest Raising the vibration with music BY LORRAINE IVERSON
“What if I was born for greatness? What if I am really more than I think I am? What if mediocrity was never in the stars for me And miracles and wonders was the plan For the average man?” These lyrics from the song “Average Man” by Los Angeles-based singer/songwriter Ray Davis, exemplify the theme of the second annual San Diego Conscious Music Fest to be held at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 4190 Front St., San Diego, on Nov. 14. Presented and organized by San Diego’s Universal Spirit Center, the Music Fest has grown into a daylong event with conscious vendors, a countywide Conscious Community Choir, a Young Voices songwriting contest (see sidebar for more information) and an evening concert featuring some of the biggest names in conscious music. Every facet of the event is centered on themes of positivity, happiness, personal growth and expanding our creativity to make the world a better place. Organizers of the event promise that you’ll leave the event feeling happier, refreshed and motivated with creative ideas to transform and enhance your life and to bring positive energy to your relationships and daily activities. “So what is conscious music?” is a frequent question, according to Annette Ridenour, one of the coproducers of this event. Says Ridenour: “Conscious music includes all musical genres. What makes this music unique is that the lyrics are based on messages of love, peace, unity and personal evolution. No matter what sort of music you enjoy, the lyrics of conscious music uplift you and raise your vibration. That’s why when people ask what kind of music this is, we tell them it’s the soundtrack for a happier world.” Among the featured artists for the concert are Karl Anthony, Nathan Aswell, Ray Davis, Gary Lynn Floyd, John Foltz, Peggy Lebo, Faith Rivera, Teri Wilder and The Yes Team. Most are Southern California-based but are also well known nationally and internationally. Some of these singer/songwriters have a pop sound to their music and some have a soul/R&B groove. Others have a country feel and some fall into the category of the “world music” genre. There’s something for everyone, and all with a message of positivity and hope. If this year’s event is anything like previous concerts, the audience spends a lot of time on their feet. And everyone leaves feeling uplifted and happy.
Ray Davis
Schedule of the day’s events: 1-5 p.m. — Free afternoon fest with live music stage featuring Joe Rathburn and friends, food, and conscious vendors. 5-6 p.m. —Young Voices winners and Conscious Community Choir performances. $10 adults, $5 children under 12. Free if you have a ticket to the evening Gary Lynn Floyd concert. 7-10:30 p.m. — Conscious Music Fest Concert. $40 (includes admission to Young Voices and Conscious Choir performances). “This day is dedicated to celebrating the power of conscious music, as an energizing way to communicate a positive vision for a world that works for everyone” according to Deva Vani, co-producer and music chair of the event. “Our vendors’ offerings also reflect that consciousness and a commitment to healthy living,” says Vani. “Vendors such as Edible Alchemy will be selling raw food deserts and artists like Kara Church will present works that reflect a connection to spirit. Simply put, it’s a day full of joy.” “Sponsoring the Music Fest again this year is our gift to the community. We know that the joy, love and connectedness expressed through these talented musicians are messages for everyone to experience,” says the Rev. Kevin Bucy, senior minister at Universal Spirit Center, an interfaith, spiritual center located in Hillcrest for 14 years. “We are also very honored and excited to have The Yes Team other ‘New Thought’ centers joining us as sponsors this year. We all share in the desire to uplift and inspire, not only our congregants but people everywhere with this music,” added Bucy. Sponsor centers are: First Unitarian Universalist, Vision Center for Spiritual Living, Hilltop Center for Spiritual Living, The Unity Center, OM Center for Spiritual Living and Seaside Center for Spiritual Living. Ten percent of Music Fest proceeds will go to supporting music programs in San Diego public schools. For additional information or to purchase tickets go to www.consciousmusicsd.com, send email to info@consciousmusicsd.com or call Annette Ridenour at (619) 980-2544.
Nathan Aswell
Young Voices Songwriting Contest icated to uplifting the human experience A new addition to the San Diego Conscious Music Fest and connecting people through the power of music. The purpose of the contest is to The San Diego Conscious Music Fest is recognize aspiring young singer/songwritincluding a focus on youth this year, with ers whose creative work reflects the posa youth songwriting contest that encour- itive trajectory that conscious music repages young people, ages 16-22, to express resents. their creative energies through songs with positive and uplifting messages in keeping What is Conscious Music? with the themes of the festival. Ten per- Conscious music contains lyrical content cent of the proceeds from the event will which embraces the human experience be donated to supporting music programs from an inclusive and loving perspective. in the schools. To encourage young musi- It has a universal, positive message that cians (ages 16-22) to consider writing can be spiritual in nature but is nondenomuplifting and hopeful music, contest win- inational. It covers all musical genre and ners receive career-enhancing prizes like brings an awareness of the power of music studio and production time, a professional to uplift, inspire and heal. It speaks to the spirit living in all people desiring love, make-over, head shots and cash. peace and unity. In short, it’s music that The Young Voices Songwriting Contest is makes you feel good. sponsored by Universal Spirit Center via the San Diego Conscious Music Fest, ded- Winners of the contest will be announced at the Music Fest.
Peggy Lebo
John Foltz
Karl Anthony
MID CITY NEWSPAPER GROUP | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 |
By Bart Mendoza October 28 Horror Punk Icons The Misfits Visit The Office The Office’s Under Cover series will have a special Halloween theme on Oct. 28 with a night dedicated to the music of horror punk icons The Misfits. Backed by an all-star band that includes guitarists Greg Hetson of Bad Religion and Daniel Crawford of Blackout Party, at least a dozen of San Diego’s best known singers, including Andrew McKeag of Uncle’s Joe’s Big Ol’ Driver and Chris Squire of Battalion of Saints, will perform such Misfit classics as “Night of the Living Dead” and “I Turned Into A Martian.” There are plenty of “tribute” shows, but each edition of Under Cover is a fast-paced unique event, full of musical surprises and is a heck of a good time. theofficebarsd.com
October 31
November 11-14
Jagged-Edged Rock from No Knife
San Diego Music Thing at The Lafayette
Anyone looking for non-costumed Halloween fun on Oct. 31st will want to head to the Casbah for a show from one of San Diego’s indie rock leading lights, circa the mid-1990s — No Knife. The band hasn’t released an album since 2002’s “Riot for Romance,” but their angular, jagged-edged rock continues to be influential, retaining for the band a loyal fan base while continuing to draw new listeners to their music. The recordings No Knife left in their wake are well worth owning, however this is an explosive group that rock aficionados need to experience live for full effect. casbahmusic.com
The Lafayette Hotel will once again be the home of music and media conference San Diego Music Thing Nov. 11-14. Daytimes at the event are dedicated to panels and seminars, but the evenings are focused on showcase gigs at venues around the city. While most are ticketed happenings, on Nov. 14, there will be a free, all-ages show on Ray Street, with a stage at North Park Way. On hand will be an excellent cross section of local artists including folk duo Triumph of the Wild, quirky popsters Echo Park Social Club, powerpop favorites Super Buffet, Americana duo Podunk Nowhere and singer-songwriter Brad Perry. If the latter sounds familiar, it is indeed the same Brad Perry who can be seen reporting for KUSI, here in acoustic troubadour mode, promoting his latest album, “Americana with Soul.” sandiegomusicthing.com
October 31 Hills Like Elephants do the Talking Heads Part of the fun in Halloween is the chance to indulge in a little make believe, transforming oneself into something new. On Oct. 31 this theory will be applied to bands, when four of the area’s most popular combos adopt the personas of their favorite artists, performing full sets of their music. On hand will be Roxy Jones as Nine Inch Nails, Sleeping Ghosts as The Jesus and Mary Chain, as well as Wild Wild Wets with a left field pick, ’60s-era Dutch rockers, Shocking Blue, best known for their song, “Venus.” The night’s top set will be likely be Hills Like Elephants’ take on the Talking Heads. The eccentric nature and adventurous rhythms of Talking Heads front man David Byrne material such as “Psycho Killer” or anything off the “Remain in Light” album, make their set the highlight of what promises to be a great night of music. sodabarmusic.com
November 15 November 3 Touches of Powerpop from Scott Weiland Former Stone Temple Pilot Scott Weiland performs at the Music Box on Nov. 3. The club date is a long way from his arena headlining years with the ’90s-era alt-rockers, but Weiland’s current music is cut from the same cloth, with touches of powerpop and glam rock tempering the hard rock edges. A former San Diegan, Weiland has had his share of controversy, obscuring what a good front man he can be and what a good songwriter he is. His latest album, “Blaster,” is full of solid, hook-filled rockers that would please fans of anyone from Jellyfish to Cheap Trick. musicboxsd.com
Classic Hits from Squeeze at House of Blues They may not be quite household names, but there is no doubt that Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook are among the finest tunesmiths of the 20th century. As the founding members of the UK hitmakers, Squeeze, they have penned numerous hits, but this is a combo whose songwriting is so good that wherever you dig into their catalog, you get gems. Performing at the House of Blues on Nov. 15 as an acoustic duo, Squeeze has a new album out, “Cradle to the Grave,” which will surely figure in the set list. However, expect the night’s biggest cheers to be for the band’s classics, from “Tempted” to “Is That Love?” houseofblues.com
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12 | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 | MID CITY NEWSPAPER GROUP
ARTS
SDSU
DOWNTOWN GALLERY PRESENTS
Exhibit explores the female identity from a global perspective San Diego State University’s Downtown Gallery will open an exhibition in November that explores female identity from a global perspective. “Presence: Selections from the Matthew and Iris Strauss Family Foundation Collection” will include 31 thematic selections — images of women created by artists from around the world. The exhibit opens Nov. 5 and continues through Jan. 25, 2016 at the
SDSU Downtown Gallery, 725 West Broadway. Hours are Thursday through Monday, 11a.m. to 4 p.m. The gallery is open to the public and admission is free. The Matthew and Iris Strauss Family Foundation is recognized for its compelling collection of international, contemporary art. Incorporating either the female figure itself or women’s apparel as surrogate for the female body, the works in the exhibition manifest a breadth of physical,
psychological, social, and political states of being. Exploring this diversity of female identity with a variety of media, “Presence” features painting, printmaking, photography, installation, fiber art, and video from Argentina, China, Britain, Italy, Japan, Norway, Pakistan, Sweden and the United States. Among the artists included are Sam Taylor-Johnson, Sebastian Blanck, Asma Ahmed Shikoh, Faris McReynolds, and Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III).
Sam Taylor-Johnson Self Portrait Suspended III 2004. Chromogenic print. Courtesy of the Matthew and Iris Strauss Family Foundation Collection Copyright © Sam Taylor-Johnson. Photograph courtesy of White Cube.
“Matthew and Iris Strauss are among San Diego County’s most important patrons of the arts,” said Tina Yapelli, director of the Downtown Gallery. “In addition to assembling an impressive private collection of noteworthy international artworks, they have developed a Family Foundation Collection of similar caliber. Dedicated to educating the next generation of art professionals and appreciators, the Strausses are committed to lending works from the
Foundation Collection for exhibition at university galleries and museums in the San Diego region.” Special Public Events The public is invited to a free Opening Reception on Nov. 5 at 6 p.m. at the Downtown Gallery. No RSVP is necessary. A special Exhibition Tour with Matthew Strauss is scheduled on Nov. 19 at 6 p.m. Matthew and Iris Strauss are among the world’s leading art collectors and philanthropists. Founder and CEO of the M.C. Strauss Company real estate investment firm, Matthew Strauss has been a trustee of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego since 1987 and president of the board of Trustees since 2013. The tour is free and no RSVP is required. Upcoming Exhibition “Energy: Made in Form” Feb. 4 through March 27, 2016 “Energy: Made in Form” is inspired by San Diego State University’s current campus-wide Common Experience theme of “energy.” The exhibition will showcase the work of students and faculty from the SDSU School of Art + Design, as well as regional artists such as Kevin Cooley, David Emitt Adams, and SDSU alumna Dia Bassett. Made in Form explores the intangible concept of energy, visualized through the creative process. About the Downtown Gallery The SDSU Downtown Gallery is a part of the School of Art + Design within the College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts at San Diego State University, and creates an important link between the university and the art community. Since 2010, the Gallery has hosted a range of exhibitions highlighting regional, national, and internationally recognized artists working in all media.
ARTS
‘Sin Titulo,’ oil and acrylic on canvas. Darian Rodriguez Mederos.
ART SAN DIEGO Back Again ‘Meta.Morphosis’ is the theme With a title like “Meta.Morphosis,” the seventh annual ART SAN DIEGO Contemporary Art Show will delve into the artistic history of San Diego’s past, honors its present and gestures confidentally toward its future. The show will run from Nov. 5-8 at the Balboa Park Activity Center. The theme will inform several of the special programs, including the LaunchPad Program, Art Labs, and the Spotlight Artist Program.
‘Mistress of Destiny,’ mixed media on canvas. Luis Enrique Toledo del Rio.
“ART SAN DIEGO remains committed to providing unique exhibition opportunities that integrate local artists and institutions,” said Ann Berchtold, show founder and director. In conjunction with ART SAN DIEGO’s theme, the special exhibition, The Timeline Project, is a wall installation measuring 120 feet long and 8 feet high built by ECOR Noble Environmental Design, with the graphic design created by students from the Media Design School of Digital Arts at NewSchool of Architecture & Design. ART SAN DIEGO will also feature a special exhibition by the 2015 San Diego Art Prize recipients: Wendy
Maruyama with emerging artist Peter Scheidt and Roy McMackin with emerging artist Kevin Inman. The LaunchPad Program will feature Brittany Segal, a San Diego-based artist who studied fine art sculpture at The Academy of Art in San Francisco. In recent years, her vast collection of work, including numerous commissions, has gained her significant recognition for her paintings and small, detailed drawings. Her work ranges from abstract oil pieces to acrylic graphics works. Her drawings range from purposefully yet hauntingly illegible writings to intricate, small designs.
Maruyama shrine
‘Mistress of Destiny,’ mixed media on canvas. Luis Enrique Toledo del Rio.
‘El Gran Salon.’ mixed media on canvas. Andres Conde.
MID CITY NEWSPAPER GROUP | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 |
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14 | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 | MID CITY NEWSPAPER GROUP
BALBOA PARK
Balboa Park Conservancy’s New CEO
BY DELLE WILLETT
Thomas Hererra-Mishler entertains huge plans for a park that is still very much a work in progress Thomas Hererra-Mishler graduated from Eastern Michigan University when other 18-year-olds were graduating from high school. He holds a BA in Spanish language and literature with a minor in business administration, and a MLA in landscape architecture and regional planning from the University of Michigan. For 29 years Herrera-Mishler has worked as a landscape architect and planner on projects in the Caribbean, Mexico, Costa Rica, Spain and across the U.S. One of his most notable projects is the master plan for the Centro de Conservacion National, the national zoo and botanical garden of Costa Rica. In 1991 when the economy tanked, he got laid off from the noted design firm of Wallace Roberts Todd, best known locally for the master plan for the Otay Ranch in Chula Vista. So he and his wife, Mercedes, spent a year volunteering with the homeless in downtown Philadelphia. That experience moved him into a new career path in the nonprofit public landscapes sector, where he worked as community landscape architect for the Philadelphia Green Program and then the executive director of the Awbury Arboretum in Philadelphia, Airlie Gardens in Wilmington, N.C., and the Massachusetts Horticultural Society in Boston. Most recently he led the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy’s innovative and uniquely successful public/private partnership with the City
of Buffalo to operate and restore Buffalo’s historic Olmsted parks system, the nation’s first park system. He helped to secure over $30 million for capital improvement projects toward the implementation of the park system’s visionary master plan. Fortunately for San Diego, Herrera-Mishler’s career has landed him as the director and chief executive officer of the Balboa Park Conservancy. Based on his past, Herrera-Mishler will be making his mark in the park. He was named Preservation Hero 2013 by the Library of American Historic Landscapes and was awarded the 2014 Gold Leaf Award by the New York State Arborists Association. The Cultural Society of Buffalo gave him an Outstanding Community Leader Award in 2014. The Upstate New York chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects named him Outstanding Leader in Landscape Architecture in 2015. “My whole career I’ve tried to work at the nexus of arts and culture and public landscape, and usually one of those elements is missing and I have had to inject it. In Balboa Park, it’s all here. In spades,” said Herrera-Mishler. The Balboa Park Conservancy is a new and old organization at the same time. It’s new because it was founded in 2012, and it’s old because it merged with 94-year-old Balboa Park Central (formerly the House of Hospitality), the organization that included the House of
Tomas Herrera-Mishler in the park’s Botanical Building. He says only half of the park has been developed.
Hospitality, the Visitors’ Center and Balboa Park Marketing. A non-profit 501(c)3 organization, the conservancy is responsible for raising funds, developing public/private partnerships and collaborating with Balboa Park stakeholders to implement capital projects, address deferred maintenance needs, promote sustainability, and seek solutions to accessibility needs in the park. Balboa Park Conservancy operates as partners with the City of San Diego, which owns Balboa Park, and with other park stakeholders to carry out its mission. “You always have to strike a good balance in a public/private partnership and it’s not easy, but they can yield amazing results,” HerreraMishler said. When the esteemed landscape architect Samuel Parsons Jr., a protégé of Frederick Law Olmsted, designed Balboa Park in 1901, it was thought of as a municipal park to serve San Diego’s population of less than 50,000, not a destination park that would have 14 million visitors a year as it does now, making it the fifth busiest park in the nation. “What we have in some ways is a park that is being loved to death,” says Herrera-Mishler. Balboa Park is accommodating extreme levels of visitors on a daily basis; but the park was never designed to accommodate so many.
“We need to adaptively change the landscape to handle the level of visitation while preserving the essence of what makes the landscape special, historic, unique,” said Hererra-Mishler. “As we address important ways to reconnect the park to the community, improve access, circulation and parking, we will be working together on huge things that are very expensive and are going to require federal, state and local government support as well as major philanthropic support. It’s going to entail all of us working together to leverage those funds for what needs to happen here to improve access and sustainability.” What’s amazing to Hererra-Mishler is a sort of myth that Balboa Park is done, and the reality is that it’s far from completed. “At the moment we have just half a park out there, but it’s a great half,” he said. Much of the east mesa and Florida Canyon have yet to be developed into what the master plan calls for. Currently it serves unsightly temporary uses, and temporary uses have a way of sticking around, he lamented. It’s all very exciting to HerreraMishler that there are so many great opportunities in the park; to take a piece of land that was so wisely set aside as parkland 150 years ago and maximize its value to today’s popu-
lation. He is strongly in favor of fully implementing the 1989 Master Plan developed by San Diego’s landscape architect and urban planner Vicki Estrada of Estrada Land Planning. “It’s still evergreen; the goals of that plan remain right on target. It’s one of the best park master plans I have come across, and I’ve seen a lot of them,” said Herrera-Mishler. He believes that if the park were to fully implement the master plan and keep it maintained at a high level, the economic benefits to the city would really be dramatic. The conservancy is planning on doing a lot of friend-raising, cultivating folks who can support the organization. One way of doing that is to have a concrete thing to be funded, like restoration of the Botanical Building. “It’s a wonderful, tangible project; it’s a building that just requires a new lease on life to be around for another 100 years,” he said. Over the course of his career, Herrera-Mishler says he’s had the opportunity to bring people together to dream big and make some of those dreams come true. “And that’s what the conservancy is all about: connecting the park to the surrounding neighborhoods, making sure it is sustainable in the long run, dreaming about the future and making it happen.” Thomas Herrera-Mishler (who prefers the Spanish “Tomas”) was pleased to find a career that could use his many skills. “I’m a really practical problem-solver but I also have a bit of design flair. I’m thrilled to have a career that I can not only enjoy but one that meets my family’s needs,” said Herrera-Mishler. Outside of work, he enjoys reading, gardening, and cooking healthy meals for his wife, Mercedes Herrera-Rojas de Mishler, a retired diplomat and award-winning artist from Costa Rica, and his daughters Elise (26) a toy designer and graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, Olivia (23) Director of Communications at Match A Resident.com, and Sofia (14) a freshman at Scripps Ranch High School. Moving to San Diego from living and working in the tropics and water-rich Buffalo, Herrera-Mishler is looking forward to learning the California family of plant materials. He’s currently trying to keep 20 rose bushes alive and well in his interim home in Scripps Ranch. Herrera-Mishler says being a committed Christian shapes his view of the world. The son of missionaries currently working in Xalapa, Mexico, he says, “I’m always trying to follow the example of the guy who started my religion 2000 years ago. It’s a really critical part of who I am.”
BUSINESS
The Grove Spreads its Branches
Susan Wells’ South Park Dry Goods Co. resembles a vintage drygoods store, which Wells said is ‘perfect for the neighborhood.’
South Park’s trendy emporium becomes two independent businesses BY MANNY CRUZ
Susan Wells and Anne Mery didn’t know quite what to expect when they first opened The Grove at Juniper & 30th a dozen years ago. “When we first opened, we were the only lights on the street at night,” said Wells. “Many store buildings were boarded up. It was pitch black at night. We took a big risk.” But the two business owners began to feel the vibe of the neighborhood as time went on — and the neighborhood began to feel their vibes. The Grove — so named because of the many trees in the area and a reference to the Celtic Tree Oracle, which feature trees significant in Celtic and Druidic mythology — has become succcessful as South Park has grown and changed. There are not many empty store-
fronts anymore and the businesses that have followed Wells and Mery are singularly unique in the array of products that they offer. They are an eclectic mix of independent boutiques, cafes and taverns. Realizing that South Park has changed significantly since 2003 — more people, higher demand for more goods and services — Wells and Mery decided not long ago that The Grove had to change as well — become more attuned to the community’s desires. “We agreed that a reconfiguration into two storefronts made sense, for ourselves, our vendors and our clientele,” said Mery. The two new stores opened this month. Basically, the space was divided into two sections. Wells’ business in Suite A has become South Park Dry Goods Co.
Anne Mery and Susan Wells, proprietors of the former Grove at Juniper & 30th.
and features fibre arts (knitting, sewing and fabrics) merchandise and services. It will be one of the featured shops in the third annual San Diego Yarn Crawl Sept. 17-21. Mery’s new business, West Grove Collective, features books, music, clothing, travel accessories, paper, garden and home goods. “We have always been an emporium of several shops, and will continue that theme,” said Mery. West Grove Collective occupies Suite B in the reconfigured 3010 Juniper St. space. “We want to pursue our passions and focus on those passions in our stores,” said Wells. “To zoom in and focus on what we both love.” For Mery, that would primarily be books. She has been in the book busiSEE GROVE, Page 16
MID CITY NEWSPAPER GROUP | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 |
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BUSINESS
16 | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 | MID CITY NEWSPAPER GROUP
Handcraft Beauty The Make Good Store specializes in locally made merchandise
‘We deeply value how locally-based businesses benefit the local economy,” says Sophia Hall, owner of MakeGood. BY LUCIA VITI
The Make Good Store is a local artisan boutique overflowing with phenomenal talent. Owned by neighborhood residents Sophia and Jon Hall, this eclectic, home-grown everything depot is known for its diverse collection of unique products crafted by artisans in San Diego and Tijuana. Customers feast on an assortment of quality handmade, one-of-a-kind art, wall-hangings, musical instruments, sculptures, jewelry, soap, vintage and new clothing, wood products, planters, furniture, and home accessories. “Make Good specializes in recycled, upcycled, locally made, and one-of-akind goods,” explains Sophia Hall. “Make Good directs buyers to sellers; that is local artisans who love to handcraft connect with those who appreciate handcrafted items.” The concept of Make Good began as dinner with family and friends “making stuff.” Discussions focused on the artistic beauty of everything
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ness since 1991 and will move forward with more books and more events. The growing trend toward online sale purchases of not only books but other gift items has hurt brick and mortar stores, but the growing awareness of the importance of shopping local and supporting independently owned stores has been helpful to revitalization of neighborhoods and South Park is the perfect example of that. South Park has grown to become a major destination, said Mery. “It’s been discovered as a great community in which to live, with great, independent shopkeepers, a go-to destination. Now, one destination will become two destinations.” Mery’s West Grove Collective features multiple vendors, including two clothing vendors. In addition, one special vendor — Soundship — is operated by her son, musician Chris Braciszewski. Soundship is a curated look into contemporary vinyl releases along with an emphasis on local label
The store recently won a $5,000 store remodel from American Express OPEN plus an interior design consultation.
handmade and the inaccessibility of finding handcrafted goods in San Diego. Gatherings quickly transitioned into sales events known as The Handmade Revolution; an evening of local artists and handcrafters selling their wares. The artisan COOP sublet the back room of an ice cream store when not hosting home shows. Sophia and Jon Hall decided to “take the plunge into the power of local” and opened Make Good in 2010. “Make Good benefits local artists and the surrounding community,” said Sophia. “Shoppers find and fall in love with unique items while discovering local talent. One-hundred percent of our local artists salvage, reclaim, reuse and resource their materials from San Diego and Tijuana. We believe that San Diego and Tijuana — our sistercity to the south — function as one ‘Tijuego’ metropolitan region. More than 60,000 people cross the San Ysidro border daily, making it the most-crossed international border in
the world. Creatively and culturally, the artisans of the two cities transcend the border so we decided to as well.” According to Sophia, merchandise is diverse, cool, out-there, yet cohesive within their ever-changing assortment. Artifacts are curated, not juried, based on the likes of the local climate. And the Halls personally know every one of the more than 125 artists featured at Make Good. “Every artist has a story,” she said. “Whether it’s a yoga teacher, a physicist or a single mom, we know who they are, the stories behind their work, and where their materials come from.” Sophia Hall said that Make Good consumers are aware of the power of local living systems. “We deeply value how locally-based businesses benefit the local economy,” she said. “In fact, the American Independent Business Alliance reports that spending at Indie retailers generates four times more local economic return than spending at chain retail stores.” Make Good artists also have shops
Some of the products sold by Make Good.
on Etsy, a worldwide, online vendor for everything handmade. “Etsy is our digitally-based kindred spirit and we’re huge fans,” said Sophia. “People often remark that Make Good’s the brick and mortar equivalent of Etsy, a compliment we cherish.” The Make Good Store recently won — by lottery — a $5,000 store remodel from American Express OPEN plus an interior design consultation from Rue Magazine, an online Lifestyle Magazine. Rue Magazine also hosted a “Meet the Maker Party” in honor of Make Good’s commitment to local artists. American Express OPEN champions small businesses through its Shop Small program designed to raise awareness in supporting shops like Make Good because they “write the story of America.” Shop Small Saturday, sponsored by American Express, awards its cardholders a $20 credit for shopping at local retail stores the day after Thanksgiving’s Black Friday. Jon and Sophia Hall worked diligently and
creatively to use every penny of their award money, and then some, to reorganize Make Good into an efficient and artistic venue. “The American Express OPEN and Rue Magazine makeover not only streamlined store clutter, it transformed the appearance of Make Good which impacted the neighborhood and ultimately the community. The story was a happening event that brought new customers not only to our boutique, but the stores and restaurants around us.” Jon and Sophia remain undaunted by the economic upheaval. “Although Jon and I opened Make Good in one of the worst recessions America has ever seen, we’re thriving,” said Sophia. “People buy handmade not only because of the quality of the artistic craftsmanship, but because of the opportunity to give back to the local community. Make Good is a labor of love.” Make Good Boutique, 2207 Fern St. (619) 563-4600.
discographies. Susan Wells’s passion is in natural fibers, clothing and the like. “I love creative, handmade things,” she said. “It’s a natural progression for me to focus on those things.” South Park Dry Goods Co. resembles a vintage drygoods store, which Wells said is “perfect for the neighborhood.” “I will continue to carry fine yarns and a nice fabric collection but will also focus on children’s crafts, drawing supplies and writing instruments,” said Wells. Like Mery, Wells will have vendors in her shop, all with expertise in the products that they will be offering. That will include three local jewelers who will offer handmade jewelry. Wells is excited about being part of the September San Diego Yarn Crawl, which will feature 10 venues over four days. The businesses are expected to attract more than 800 visitors during the event. “We will have special events during the event to appeal to knitters and crocheters, and we’ll have yarn tastings,” said Wells. “It’s all a wonderful way to introduce people to Anne Mery’s new business, West Grove Collective, features books, music, clothing, travel accessories, paper, garden and home South Park.” goods.
FOOD & DRINK
The Art of Chocolate
MID CITY NEWSPAPER GROUP | OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015 |
BY JENNIFER COBURN
Will Guswiller is the confections king of South Park
Sea Salt Caramel layer cake, topped with famous Eclipse salted caramels.
Box-of-Nine-Cupcakes
Will Gustwiller is living his dream of being an artist, but not in the way he had first imagined. When he began a Masters of Fine Arts program at San Diego State University 11 years ago, he had his eye on a career making jewelry and metal sculptures. Today, he creates what he calls edible art at Eclipse Chocolate in South Park. The stylish shop on Fern Street not only creates confectionary gems like basil absinthe, blackberry merlot, and goat cheese fig chocolate truffles, but is also an award-winning chocolate concept restaurant. With a full brunch and dinner menu, the bistro won a Silver Fork Award from San Diego Home/Garden in its first month of business. “I have handwritten cards from guests who have said it was the best meal they’ve ever eaten,” he says. “We donate 10 percent of our net profits to charity so we do a lot of events” both in the private dining room at Eclipse and off-site, says Gustwiller. One of his most popular: the chocolate three-way in which Gustwiller matches his chocolate creations with wine and cheese. “We also SEE CHOCOLATE, Page 18
A vanilla bean caramel latte made from Cafe Calabria beans next to two popular chocolate bars.
William Gustwiller creates edible art at Eclipse Chocolate.
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pair beer with truffles,” he says recalling an event that actor Aisha Tyler created during Comic-Con with Eclipse and Stone Brewery. Gustwiller has come a long way from his Ohio roots where he learned about making confections from his grandmother. “I grew up in a world of casseroles from Campbell’s Soup and making candy from a lot of messy, processed ingredients,” he says. His mother’s holiday fudge recipe included Velveeta cheese, Cocoa powder, marshmallow fluff, nut, and sugar. “I would never eat it because I knew what was in it,” he says. “Velveeta isn’t even cheese, it’s this creepy cheese-like spread.” Although he has always considered himself a foodie, it wasn’t until he was at San Diego State that the idea of creating “nouvelle chocolate” occurred to him. “As an art student, you are asked to consider and honor the materials,” he says. With that, Gustwiller began creating recipes for chocolate truffles, pastries, cakes, and chocolate-based main courses using only high-quality, natural ingredi-
ents. At a recent Eclipse Chocolate threeway event hosted by Adventures by the Book, 40 women gathered to celebrate the publication of a new novel by local authors Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke. Gustwiller served three sets of truffles, wine, and cheese, discussing the ingredients, process, and pairing selection of each. He is as knowledgeable about wine and cheese as he is chocolate, flitting from table to table, answering every question from guests. That doesn’t mean Gustwiller is above grunt-work, though. He says he wears six different hats including executive chef, chocolatier, and graphic designer. “We are a small, gritty company with only 30 people making all of the chocolate and running the bistro,” he says. As for his career in the visual arts, he says, “I still make sculpture in my free time, but curating a complete collection of confection, beverage, and dining menus is what fascinates me most.”
FOOD & DRINK Katie’s Truffle Tastings Sure, highbrow foodies will love pumpkin muscovado and balsamic pink peppercorn truffles, but will these treats entice a less sophisticated palate. I took my teenage daughter Katie to Eclipse Chocolates for a truffle tasting on a recent Saturday night to find out. Here were some of her reactions: Hickory salted caramel — Oh my God, this is so smooth and gorgeous! The hickory works surprisingly well with the caramel. This is my favorite of the sampling. A 10! Caramel pecan — This is so delicious, though I need to sip water between bites because it’s so rich. I can definitely live with that! Pomegranate sage — This has a strong berry taste that I love. Nice and Katie Coburn O’Nell samples a sweet and smooth. This is great stuff! chocolate treat. Champagne cherry — The cherry is nice and subtle and tangy and the dried cherry accent on top is amazing! Chile burnt caramel — Nice, this is really good…whoa, whew, it gets really spicy a few seconds after the first bite. This is like Mexican hot chocolate! Goat cheese fig — I can see how adults would like this, but I don’t think pepper should be on chocolate. Or goat cheese. Yeah, this one is a little too grown up for me. Basil absinthe — Whoa, boozy! I don’t think this is legal for a kid. It’s good, but it tastes like it took a wrong turn into a bar. Serrano salted caramel — Oh please never let this chocolate end! This is insane in all the best ways.
FUN & GAMES
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