NORTH PARK NEWS, DECEMBER 2016

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SUMMIT ADVENTURE

Vol. 25 No. 12 December 2016

WHAT’S INSIDE?

Michael Abrams won’t let Parkinson’s Disease break him

Holiday Shopping in North Park

North Park saw increased shoppers at retail stores for Small Business Saturday, held Nov. 26. Local retailers like Pigment, Simply Local, Dexter’s Deli and Verbatim Books were featured on local television stations with Councilmember-elect Chris Ward, alongside spokespeople from American Express here to promote our local retailers. PG. 2

Berkley Hart Christmas Show

Anyone hoping to hear seasonal music favorites will want to check out the annual “A Berkley Hart Christmas” show at the Music Box on Dec. 22. The duo of producer Jeff Berkley and singer songwriter Calman Hart is one of the best acoustic pairings you will ever hear. PG. 9

Michael Abrams of North Park, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease in 2013, joined 28 other hikers — including nine with the disease — in a rigorous climb up the Andes’ Villacamba Cordillera mountain range in October, to raise awareness and funds for a promising new therapy to relive the symptoms of the disease. He describes the seven-day trek as “a celebration, adventure, and ordeal all in one.” Read Delle Willett’s story on the ordeal on PAGE 10

Communal Brushstrokes Since July 2015, Tuesday nights at True North Tavern are more than burgers and beer. At 9 p.m. the dance floor accommodates easels, paints, and brushes, and patrons are encouraged to express themselves through art. No experience required. PG. 14

CONTACT US EDITORIAL/LETTERS

Manny Cruz manny@sandiegometro.com ADVERTISING

North Park resident Michael Abrams on the Machu Picchu trek, a project funded by Summit For Stem Cell, a nonprofit organization headquartered in San Diego.

Brad Weber

Brad@LocalUmbrella.com

* OFFER EXPIRES JAN. 31ST

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| DECEMBER 2016

HOLIDAY SHOPPING IN NORTH PARK

BY ANGELA LANDSBERG EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF NORTH PARK BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

Success of Small Business Saturday kicks off the biggest retail season of the year The community of North Park saw increased shoppers at retail stores for Small Business Saturday, held Nov. 26. Local retailers like Pigment, Simply Local, Dexter’s Deli and Verbatim Books were featured on local television stations with Councilmember-elect Chris Ward, alongside spokespeople from American Express here to promote our local retailers.

“We are grateful to see such support from elected officials, business owners and community members who all came together to spotlight, and patron, our retail offerings,” said Matt Gordon, owner and executive chef of Urban Solace and president of the North Park Business Association. “A special thank you to all of our local business owners who went the extra mile with smart promotions and offerings that encouraged shoppers to head to North Park!”

Through December, we encourage residents to shop local. The data shows how far your dollar can go to support the neighborhood: If you spend $100 at a local business, roughly $68 stays in your local economy. If you spend the same at a large business, only $43 stays in the local economy (Source: Civic Economics Study in Grand Rapids, Michigan).

With this in mind, here are a few

gift ideas from local retailers. From a customized terrarium for your mother-in-law to a vintage 1970s jacket for your fashionable cousin, you’re sure to find the perfect present for even the pickiest of people at North Park’s community of shops. Use this holiday gift guide to cross off names on your list, all while supporting the local community.

For that special furry friend:

Dexter’s Deli is a neighborhood pet store with a twist, offering allnatural supplements, food and treats for furry friends. Want to really spoil the pup this holiday? Feed them a treat from the Dexter’s Deli bakery that includes specialty-made cakes and cupcakes that both you and the dog can enjoy. A picture means a thousand words; so don’t forget to stop by at Oh My Dog! Photography on your way home and snap some photos of that “Can I eat my cake already?” puppy face.

For the Lumberjack in your life:

Geographie Shop is dedicated to offering well-crafted, small batch, artisan-made products for home, body, and soul… including the perfect gifts for him. Facial hair needs some grooming? Check out Georgraphie’s wooden Kent Beard &

Mustache Comb that is handmade and saw-cut.

For the Fashionista:

Simply Local celebrates art, culture and the community by providing a merchant marketplace for over 55 locally owned businesses in San Diego. They have a wide selection of locally crafted jewelry and accessories that are truly one-of-a-kind.

For example, the beautiful circular fused glass charm necklaces that are handmade by local San Diego artist, GNi Designs.

For the foodie:

Look no further than any of North Park’s more than 30 dining destinations to pick up a gift card that is sure to please. Head to Holsem Coffee for the espresso aficionado, Urban Solace for a delicious date night, or One Door North to try one of the newest destinations in town.

Searching far and wide for the perfect “where did you find this!?” gift? Look no further. Skip the lines at the mall and head to North Park for thoughtful and unique presents this holiday season.

Everything for the pet, at Dexter’s Deli.

Hanging gardens from Pigment.

DECEMBER 2016 |

FROM DEXTER’S

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5 Fun under $50 ideas for your fur-family: 1

4708 Gabriel Way, Mount Helix, La Mesa 5 BR/ 3.5 BA $1,100,000

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From the Field Catnip

830 21st Street, Golden Hill Beautifully remodeled 3 BR/2 BA Craftsman $749,0000 !

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3 4 3 Beautifully renovated units South Park, San Diego 92102 VR Price $995,000 to $1,195,000

Paper Russells Stationary Cards d Dexter’s Deli Holiday Sampler Bisscuits

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3659 Florida Street, North Park, San Diego 92104 Detached Home All new construction 2 BR/ 2 BA Sold above list price at $570,000 ROW

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Mendota Snap Leash h Dexter’’ss Deli has been leading in the health movem ment o off naturall,, wholesome food dss and holistic approach for f the caring go off y your p pet ffor the last 20 y yearrss. Dexter’’ss Deli is a community pet store with locations in North Parkk,, Del Mar and Carllssbad. www w..dextersdeli.com m

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Adoptable Dog Of The Month Meet Shorty, y, a volunteer favorite. Anyone is just one treat aaway way ffrrom becoming his new best friend. Shorty is a bundle of ffu fr un packe ked into a stout 40-pound 40 pound package. package H He has gorgeous red and white coloring, a shorrt and easy-to-care-ffo or coat, inquisitive chestnut colored eye yes, and a sturdy and adorable low-to-the-gground phy hysique.

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Happy Holidays to all our friends Decades of Experience • Neighborhood Experts • How may we assist you?

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| DECEMBER 2016

The BEST Boilermaker Pairing: Angostura Amaro & The Butcher Imperial Stout – Societe Brewing Company Living the

HOPPY

LIFE

with Beau Schmitt AMARO BACKGROUND

The House of Angostura started in 1824 when Johann Siegert moved to Angostura, Venezuela from Germany and began producing medicinal bitters. It wasn’t until 2014 that Angostura Amaro was launched to honor Don Carlos, the founder’s son who enjoyed a lavish, sociable and luxurious lifestyle.

Amaro is Italian for the word “bitter.” Traditionally, an Amaro is an Italian herbal liquor that serves as a digestif after dinner. In theory, the herbal infusions aid in digestion.

Examples of popular Amari (plural for Amaro) in the US include: Jagermeister (German-style Amaro) and Fernet (Italian-style Amaro).

THE SPIRIT

Angostura Amaro starts as a neutral or “rectified” spirit, which is a highly-concentrated ethanol (alcohol) that has been purified through repetitive distillation. Neutral spirits are typically 190 Proof (95% alcohol) before being used in other distillation processes that introduce herbs, spices and proprietary recipes.

Angostura Amaro is derived from the distilling process of creating Angostura Bitters. Deep amber and dark walnut in color, Angostura Amaro is a medium-bodied liquor that’s not syrupy. On the nose, you’ll get notes of holiday spice, cloves, cinnamon, dark cherries and nutmeg. On the palate, you’ll experience flavors of cinnamon and toasted caramel with a sweet chocolate finish.

THE PAIRING

Jet black in color, The Butcher, 9.7% Imperial Stout has a medium body rich with notes of dark choco-

late and coffee aroma. As a connoisseur, start with a small sip of Amaro.

As your tongue warms up the spirit, you’ll being to taste the cinnamon and dark cherries. Now follow with a small sip of The Butcher. As the warm spirit mixes with the imperial stout, the cinnamon and dark cherries will transition into bittersweet chocolate. As they continue to warm and blend, aromatic notes of caramel from the Amaro and coffee from The Butcher will take you on a magical journey.

Or you could just pour the shot of Amaro into the beer, tilt your head back, finish the glass and kick off a fantastic night.

Cheers, Beau About The Brew Project:

The Brew Project, located on 5th Ave in Hillcrest, is a restaurant that specializes in San Diego craft beer and upscal bar food. Contact: Beau@TheBrewProject.com"

URBAN GARDENING Urban Gardening: From Scrap to Seed BY: NINA RUUD, ART & GARDEN ENTHUSIAST

One day while moving, I noticed the old tenants had left a few cherry tomatoes on top of the soil in a planter. The randomness was definitely noted! Due to the circumstances (i.e. carrying boxes and furniture), it took a few days to finally organize the front garden. When I went to remove the tiny tomatoes from the dracaena tree, something magical happened! One of the seeds from the tomatoes had sprouted into a 3” plant! I carefully removed the plant and placed it in a glass. I filled

the glass with water to the top of the roots and let the leaves hang over the edge of the glass.

It was left in an eastern facing window sill, with about 5 hours of direct sunlight each day. With minute effort, the tiny tomato sprout started forging new roots within a week. It grew strong and was eventually transplanted into an herb garden, producing delicious cherry tomatoes for us to enjoy!

One of my favorite facets of the “DIY” lifestyle is growing fresh food from kitchen scraps. Keep in mind, it has nothing to do with eating “old”

food, or food that has gone bad. The end result is fresher than anything you can find at the grocery store!

There are many methods to re-growing your food, from seed-saving to using matured vegetables and fruits.

It doesn’t require much time, space, or effort. Read on to find out how!

If it’s your first time, start simple.

Choose something you already have in your fridge and go from there. For now, let’s start with… tomatoes!

There are actually multiple ways to re-grow tomatoes. You will need at least one tomato (any size will do) that has matured but not soured. Slice

it up a ¼ inch thick, and place the slices in a pot of soil like pepperoni on a pizza. Cover it with ¼ inch of soil, and water it 2-3 times a week.

Another way is to collect the seeds from a ripe tomato fruit, let them dry overnight, and plant them ½” deep in organic soil. You can also take a cutting from another tomato plant stem, soak it in water until it roots, then plant in healthy soil.

How about potatoes? Also Easy!

Simply peel 2 inch slices around the “eyes” of the skin. (It’s advantageous to have multiple eyes on each piece.)

Allow to dry overnight, and plant the pieces 3” deep in soil, with the eyes facing up. Water 2-3X per week, and plant in a large amount of soil. It will take a few weeks for sprouts to appear, but soon you will be harvesting your own potatoes with little cost and effort!

Avocadoes grow well in our region, and go well with many tasty dishes.

Simply remove the seed from the avocado and rinse it well. Using 4 toothpicks, suspend the seed over a small glass, keeping the “pointy” side up.

Fill the glass with water enough to submerge the lower inch of the seed.

Keep in a warm space out of direct sunlight, and change the water level frequently. It can take up to 6 weeks before you see roots and stems growing, so be patient! Once the stem grows 6”, cut it back to 3”. When leaves start growing, you can plant it in the soil, leaving half of the seed above ground.

Keep in mind, fruits from trees will take longer then leafy greens. Let’s do one more example of something that doesn’t take as much time… Herbs!

Fresh herbs like Parsley, Cilantro, and Basil are common at most markets and can vary in price. Place herb stems in a glass of water, filling to the top of the roots. Keep in a well-lit space, and change the water every few days. Once the roots have grown an extra few inches, plant in healthy soil and water 3x/week. If you are already growing herbs, wait for them to “flower” and save the seeds that way as well! Having fresh herbs on hand is an easy way to upgrade the taste and nutrition of any meal!

These are just a few examples of what can be re-grown from your kitchen. Growing food at home is a healthy alternative to processed foods year ‘round! It’s a fun activity to share with your family, friends, or enjoy on your own!

Cali Life Co. is a San Diego-based company, employing local artists to create unique designs for sunglasses, hats, and accessories.

Sourcing high-quality lenses with polarized, UV-400 protection, our sunglasses not only look good, they also provide stellar eye protection from the gleaming SoCal sun!

Check us out at, CaliLifeCo.com Or, come and see us in person!

DECEMBER 2016 |

WINNIE’S

PICKS!

BERKELEY SQUARE – 3 discs, 8.5 hours. The loves, happiness and secrets of nannies. If you liked Downton Abbey, you will like this series.

Hugh Laurie. A 6 part miniseries, which is a thrilling spy novel. You will enjoy this international intrigue. Come in and see me and rent this masterpiece.

PAPA HEMINGWAY IN CUBA - A true story

NINE LIVES - Kevin Spacey, Jennifer Garner

and first movie filmed in Cuba in more than a century. It is a very interesting story about a journalist from Miami going to Cuba to meet his idol, Hemingway. You will be entertained and, also, learn some shocking facts about the very rich people.

and Chris Walken. Just a fun video to enjoy with your little people. It is hard to find a video you can watch with your children.

CAFE SOCIETY - Written and directed by

Woody Allen. A story of falling in love and all the complications that come with it. Another interesting film by Woody.

MARY PICKFORD - This is a story about a

very outstanding actress and a very smart businesswoman. Mary went on to be a top star in a great era of movies. She is also the businesswoman who began United Artists. Rich and I enjoyed this video so much that we wish you would rent it and learn a lot about this great lady. Enjoy it!

A BRAVE HEART: THE LIZZIE VELASQUEZ STORY – I just want you to

see this video. Then encourage everyone to be proud of who they are and where they come from. Another story to see and be aware of what is out there.

NIGHT MANAGER - Tom Huddleston and

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Michael Gibson Named President of Mid-City Little League Higgs attorney a role model for kids Michael Gibson, a business litigation and risk management attorney for Higgs Fletcher &Mack, has been named president of the Mid-City Little League.

Gibson will oversee all elements of the league and help further its goal of developing character and sportsmanship among the players, while continuing to increase participation.

“Michael is not only a dedicated volunteer, but truly a role model who helps teach life lessons through baseball,” said Higgs Fletcher & Mack’s Managing Partner, John Morrell.

“The league is a diverse community and that’s very similar to our firm. They’re very fortunate to have someone with his leadership and drive to further the league’s mission.”

Founded in 1949, Mid-City Little League is San Diego’s oldest league. For the last two years, Gibson coached his son’s team and served on the league’s 2015-2016 Board of Directors as the CAPS Division coordinator.

In addition, this past summer, Gibson and the firm sponsored the league’s All-Star Teams.

“It’s important that we stay involved and contribute to organizations that are making

Michael Gibson heads the Mid-City Little League.

a difference in the lives of kids. Giving back is a fundamental part of the firm’s legacy,” said Gibson. “Whether we’re donating funds or offering our time, we truly want to make an impact.”

Little League Baseball was founded in 1939, the same year Higgs Fletcher & Mack started serving the San Diego community.

Vigil to Remember Victims of Gun Violence ‘Lighting the Way’ set for Dec. 14 Each year in America, 100,000 people are killed or injured by guns. Incidents such as the mass shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut and Pulse Nightclub in Florida stun and sadden the public, prompting questions about what can be done and when will this stop. The situation seems hopeless, communities feel stuck.

On Dec. 14 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral in Hillcrest, San Diegans can join in prayers and blessings at a vigil for victims of gun violence.

“Lighting the WayRemember and Respond,” will be an evening uniting faith leaders, city and county officials, local musicians, and concerned families with the goal of transforming empathy into meaningful action.

Organized by the San Diego County chapter of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Violence and The Newton Foundation, the event is just one of many that will be held nationwide, bringing attention to the need for safe cities, schools, and workplaces.

As one spokesperson lamented, gun violence in this country “shatters the hearts” of

Americans and people across the world.

Dean Penny Bridges of the Episcopal Cathedral was enthusiastic in helping to bring together faith leaders Rabbi Laurie Coskey, Iman Taha Hassane, and Reverend Dan Koeschall to speak to the audience. Along with media announcements, flyers are being distributed and congregations are inviting neighbors.

Speakers will include Councilman Chris Ward. Musicians Kelli McCarthy, Ron Markus, the Children’s Choir of San Diego, and Emma’s Revolution will lead songs, culminating in “Peace, Salaam, Shalom.”

Preceding the vigil, the public is urged to come out for a rally on Laurel Street between Fifth and Sixth avenues.

Motorists will notice the many placards intended to raise awareness about the growing tragedy of gun violence in America. Participants at the rally will then process to St. Paul’s for the 6 p.m. vigil service. St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral is located at 2728 Sixth Ave. The lighting of candles and a reception will follow the hour-long service.

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| DECEMBER 2016

San Diego No. 1 in U.S. for Shopping Local Results of the 2016 Yelp-commissioned survey No other city in the country can beat San Diego when it comes to shopping local retailers.

A Yelp-commissioned survey conducted online by Harris Poll puts San Diego as No. 1 on the top U.S. cities for shopping local in 2016.

The ranking was created based on millions of Yelp reviews that were analyzed using a “gifted score” — the more users who mentioned the word “gift” in reviews for non-chain businesses, the higher a city’s ranking.

According to the poll, 64 percent of American adults plan to shop local this holiday season and they expect to spend $324 on average, a 26 percent increase compared with $258 in 2015.

The Yelp-commissioned survey found that 37 percent of American adults have already started or plan to start holiday shopping before Thanksgiving, and over half of Americans (53 percent) will have already started or plan to start holiday shopping by Small Business Sat-

urday tomorrow.

According to Yelp data, Yelpers are up late searching for the best places to shop. “We see that Yelp searches in the shopping category tend to spike around 11 p.m. We also found that Yelpers tend to be last-minute shoppers, with searches for businesses in the shopping category spiking less than a week before Christmas.

But where are these Yelpers shopping? Or, where should they be shopping?

“We sifted through millions of Yelp reviews to find out which cities in the U.S. are the best for finding gifts at local businesses. To determine this list, we created a gifting score for each city by looking at positive reviews mentioning the word “gift” written by locals for non-chain businesses in specific shopping categories that are popular for the holidays. We then ranked the resulting cities based on the gifting score.”

“Yelp is really committed to supporting local businesses so we

thought it would be really interesting to see the top cities for shopping locally,” Hannah Cheesman, a spokeswoman for San Franciscobased Yelp, told the San Diego Union-Tribune. “The whole idea is to look at all of the businesses that people shop at during the holidays, so we excluded some places like vape shops, mattress shops, a garage door store, guns and ammo, adult stores,” she said.

The addition of surf and skateboard shops in the survey may have accounted for San Diego making the list this year, since it wasn’t in the top 20 last year, according to Cheesman.

Small Business Saturday

In stark contrast to the mad rush of Black Friday at crowded malls and chain stores, Small Business Saturday, which ocurred on Nov. 25, brought people together on Main Streets and in neighborhood business districts for a more rewarding and personable shopping experience.

Shopping for toys in South Park. (Photo by Manny Cruz)

Small Business Saturday takes place in over 4,000 U.S. communities the Saturday following Thanksgiving and encourages people to frequent their local, independent businesses during the holiday season. The campaign also takes place in the United Kingdom and Australia, though on a different Saturday during the year.

Small Business Saturday broke records in 2015 for both overall participation and customer spending.

Ninety-five million people patronized one or more independent business — a strong eight-percent increase over 2014. Spending at independent retailers and restaurants increased even more — growing 14 percent, from just over $14 billion in 2014 to more than $16 billion in 2015, according to a survey quantifying the impact of last year’s event.

Small Business Saturday Results: 112 Million Consumers Shop and Dine As Small Business Saturday wrapped up its seventh year Nov. 26, the outpouring of support for local businesses across the country hit record highs with 72 percent of U.S. consumers aware of the day.

More shoppers reported visiting local independent businesses on Small Business Saturday this year than ever before, according to results from the Small Business Saturday Consumer Insights Survey, released by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) and American Express. This year, an estimated 112 million consumers reported shopping at small businesses on Small Business Saturday, marking a 13 percent increase from 2015.

Small Business Saturday saw record levels of support from communities and local organizations in 2016. More than 6,700 Neighborhood Champions from the Great Lakes to the Gulf Coast and from the Pacific Northwest to New England rallied local businesses and created events in their communities for Small Business Saturday — an increase of 63 percent over last year.

Additionally, the estimated number of small business owners reached through the Neighborhood Champion program was 2.1 million.

More than 480 organizations joined the Small Business Saturday Coalition, a 13 percent increase over last year. The Coalition, a group created in 2011 to help amplify the Shop Small message, is comprised of national, state and local associations that help coordinate activities for Small Business Saturday with consumers and small business owners.

Consumers came together to show their love for small businesses on Small Business Saturday. Among those who shopped on the day, 32 percent reported attending a community event, and 81 percent reported encouraging friends or family to shop or dine at small, independently-owned retailers and restaurants on the day as well, both on par with 2015.

Additionally, consumers and small businesses helped rally support for Small Business Saturday and their favorite small businesses on social media channels. So far this month, there were 135 million social media engagements in support of Small Business Saturday, up from 85 million in 20151.

“It’s exciting for us to see the record number of consumers who came out in support of independently-owned businesses on Small Business Saturday,” said Elizabeth Rutledge, EVP of Global Advertising and Media at American Express. “People across the country are aware of the benefits that small businesses can bring to the community, and the momentum that was started seven years ago with the first Small Business Saturday continues to build.”

At a time when an increasing number of consumers are opting to shop online – and are spreading their holiday shopping spending over a longer period of time than they did traditionally – many still prioritize visiting brick and mortar small businesses on Small Business Saturday.

According to the survey, among U.S. consumers who went out and shopped in-store, total reported

spending reached an estimated $15.4 billion at independent retailers and restaurants on the day, a decrease from the estimated $16.2 billion spent in 2015.

“Small businesses across the nation are often run by the friends, family,

and neighbors that we know well, so supporting them is not only personal but critical to their success,” said NFIB CEO and President Juanita Duggan. “Partnering with American Express to promote the awareness and importance of shopping small is

something we are very proud of, and look forward to continuing the success of Small Business Saturday.”

DECEMBER 2016 |

The Multiplier Effect of Local Independent Businesses Clearly communicating the importance of the local economic multiplier effect or “local premium” is a key part of effective “buy local” and public education campaigns.

The multiplier results from the fact that independent locally-owned businesses recirculate a far greater percentage of revenue locally compared to absentee-owned businesses (or locally-owned franchises). In other words, going local creates more local wealth and jobs. The multiplier is comprised of three elements — the direct, indirect, and induced impacts.

• Direct impact is spending done by a business in the local economy to operate the business, including inventory, utilities, equipment and pay to employees.

• Indirect impact happens as dollars the local business spent at other area businesses re-circulate.

• Induced impact refers to the additional consumer spending that happens as employees, business owners and others spend their income in the local economy.

The private research firm Civic Economics has executed the bulk of studies attempting to quantify the difference in local economic return between local independents and chain businesses. Their first such study (pdf), for the city of Austin, Texas showed an independent bookseller (Book People) and music seller (Waterloo Records) returned more than three times as much money to the local economy as a proposed Borders Books and Music outlet would.* Those results since have been mirrored by subsequent studies (ten summarized here), each showing a much greater local multiplier for spending at independent businesses than chains. These studies measured the direct and indirect impacts to determine the base level local economic activity of a purchase made at a chain and a local independent business.

On average, 48 percent of each purchase at local independent businesses was recirculated locally, compared to less than 14 percent of purchases at chain stores. (See blue graph) The Institute for Local Self-Reliance conducted perhaps the simplest study of the local multiplier effect in several small Maine communities in 2003. The study examined how much of a dollar spent at a local independent store is re-spent in the local area as payroll, goods/services purchased from area businesses, profits spent locally by owners, and as donations to area charities. The study found each $100 spent at local independents generated $45 of secondary local spending, compared to $14 for a big-box chain — nearly identical to later results across the many Civic Economics studies.

Key Points

Civic Economics’ Andersonville neighborhood (Chicago) study found a total impact (direct, indirect and induced) of $.68 for each dollar spent at 10 local independents, compared to $.43 projected for their chain competitors. However, the projection of indirect and induced impacts does not mean $.68 of each dollar spent at a local independent “stays” in the local economy — an inaccurate claim that has been spread widely. It means $.68 of additional local economic return ultimately is generated after additional spending cycles. Citing the higher numbers without explaining they include impacts by entities other than the original business is simply wrong and can undermine the credibility of your group or campaign.

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ARTS

| DECEMBER 2016

SDSU Downtown Gallery Presents ‘Sandow Birk: Depravities & Monuments’

Destruction from The Depravities of War, 2007. Woodcut print (ink on paper), 48 x 96 inches. Courtesy of the artist and Catharine Clark Gallery, San Francisco.

The SDSU Downtown Gallery presents “Sandow Birk: Depravities & Monuments,” featuring works from two of the artist’s major series.

The exhibit opened on Nov. 17 and lasts through Jan. 29, 2017.

Birk, Los Angeles based and internationally recognized, displays a keen mind and sure hand in his large-scale works from The Depravities of War and Imaginary Monuments series. Together, these incisive projects cogently address conditions and concerns of contemporary life.

The Depravities of War, compris-

ing a narrative suite of monumental woodcut prints, proffers a stinging critique of the Iraq war and its aftermath. Birk harks back to Jacques Callot’s “The Miseries and Misfortunes of War” (1633), a series of etchings that delivered biting commentary on Europe’s Thirty Years’ War and inspired Francisco Goya’s damning print series “The Disasters of War” (1810–1820), which expressed horror at the bloody conflicts between Spain and the French Empire. As did his predecessors, Birk depicts the events of his own

time to condemn the gruesome practices and devastating consequences of armed combat.

Imaginary Monuments, consisting of outsize drawings and etchings, proposes public memorials to laws, treaties and declarations devised to structure the conduct of global society. Informed by the draughtsman style and architectonic substance of Giovanni Battista Piranesi’s series of etchings “Views of Rome” (1747–1778), which both documented and embellished ancient and 18th century Roman

architectural landmarks. At once deadpan and tongue-in-cheek, Birk’s series illustrates his fantastical plans for monuments to wide-ranging topics, such as human rights, criminal justice, U.S.-involved military engagements, international football, the Internet, the world’s oceans and outer space.

“Depravities & Monuments” is curated by Professor Tina Yapelli and organized by the SDSU Downtown Gallery. The exhibition and events are sponsored by the School of Art + Design, the College of Pro-

Repercussion from The Depravities of War, 2007. Woodcut print (ink on paper), 48 x 96 inches. Courtesy of the artist and Catharine Clark Gallery, San Francisco.

fessional Studies and Fine Arts, and Arts Alive SDSU. Additional support is provided by the San Diego State University Art Council. Sandow Birk is represented by Catharine Clark Gallery, San Francisco, and Koplin Del Rio Gallery, Seattle.

The SDSU Downtown Gallery is located at 725 West Broadway, San Diego. Hours are Thursday through Monday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The gallery is open to the public and admission is free.

DECEMBER 2016 |

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By Bart Mendoza December 22 The Annual ‘A Berkley Hart Christmas’ Show The holidays are upon us and anyone hoping to hear seasonal favorites will want to check out the annual “A Berkley Hart Christmas” show at the Music Box on Dec. 22. The duo of acclaimed producer Jeff Berkley and singer songwriter Calman Hart is one of the best acoustic pairings you will ever hear, both virtuoso guitarists, blessed with wonderfully warm voices that draw the listener in. These yearly shows are events, bringing out a myriad of special guests and evergreen tunes, but these are two truly talented individuals. They could sing the phone book and it would be worth hearing. www.musicboxsd.com Berkley-Hart Ariel Levine

January 8, 2017 December 27 Hard to Pin Down The Grim Slippers

Grim Slippers

It can be a little hard to pin down the sound of rock trio The Grim Slippers, who appear at the Soda Bar on Dec. 27. There are elements of ’70s classic rock, prog, blues and jam band musings in their brief songs, with titles such as “Psychopathic Forest,” giving an indication to their leanings.

As heard on their new EP, “Take Notice,” it’s an intense blend of genres that has captured local music fans’ imagination, making Grim Slippers one of the most engaging new bands to emerge from San Diego in the past few years. www.sodabarmusic.com

Ariel Levine Stars in David Bowie Tribute The grim reaper has been particularly hard on the music community this year, with David Bowie being one of the year’s biggest losses, just days after the release of his final album, “Lazarus.” On Jan. 8, Bowie’s birthdate, the Casbah will host a celebration of the man’s music, with a show covering his entire career. On hand will be Bowiephonics, aka San Diego’s current top rockers Schizophonics, in glam rock costume, who will perform a set of Bowie’s hits. But the night’s highlight will be a set from Ariel Levine and his band, who will perform “Lazarus” in its entirety. It’s an ambitious undertaking, but Levine and crew are up to the task of playing this already revered album. If you are a fan of David Bowie, you won’t want to miss a second of this show. www.casbahmusic.com

December 29-30 Firm Festival Favorites Tribal Theory

Tribal Theory

The sound of San Diego? If you are anywhere near the ocean, it’s reggae. There is a wealth of talent in the area, from the superstars such as Slightly Stoopid, to the up-and-comers, like current chart topper Hirie, with plenty of rising stars in the mix. Such is the case with Tribal Theory who perform two nights at the House of Blues on Dec. 29 and 30. Formed in 2005, few bands could hope to fill the House of Blues on one evening, let alone two, but Tribal Theory’s devoted fanbase has made them firm festival favorites. The band is currently touring behind their latest EP, “Reclamation.” From the evidence of this multi night show, it’s clear that the road work is paying off. www.houseofblues.com/sandiego Zakk Wylde

December 30

January 19, 2017

Masterful Work by Jazz Pianist Chase Morrin

Zakk Wylde Performing Music of Black Sabbath

Jazz pianist Chase Morrin returns to Dizzy’s on Dec. 30. Though only 23 years old, Morrin has already led a remarkable career performing nationwide at events like the Monterey Jazz Festival and winning numerous awards, including nine from Downbeat Magazine. Morrin has released three albums to date, most recently “Turtle,” but live is where he and his trio perform magic, with Dizzy’s the best local venue to sit back and listen to his masterful work. Anyone who wonders about the future of jazz with so many legends leaving us, will know the music’s future is in safe hands and progressing with players like Morrin. www.dizzy’sjazz.com Chase Morrin

Hard rock aficionados won’t want to miss Zakk Sabbath, performing at Brick by Brick on Jan. 19. You’ll get exactly what the name implies: legendary guitarist Zakk Wylde performing the music of Black Sabbath. It’s a natural fit for Wylde, who performed with Ozzy Osbourne before forming his own group of stadium rockers, Black Label Society. Whether you’re a fan of heavy metal guitar or Black Sabbath’s classic rock songs such as “Children of the Grave” and “Snowblind,” this opportunity to see Wylde in the intimate surroundings of Brick by Brick should not be missed. www.brickbybrock.com

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COVER STORY

| DECEMBER 2016

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15,200 FEET North Park’s Michael Abrams climbs a mountain range to help other victims of Alzheimer’s Disease

BY DELLE WILLETT

Long-time North Park resident Michael Abrams recently visited Machu Picchu for the second time.

The first time was in 1978, when he was a college student looking for adventure during a summer break.

The second time had more meaning.

In October, Abrams and 28 other hikers, including nine who suffer with Parkinson’s disease (PD), climbed up into the Andes’ Villacamba Cordillera (mountain range) to raise awareness and funds for a promising new therapy to relive the symptoms of PD. Scientists at the Scripps Research Institute on Torrey Pines Mesa are doing the work, while the project is being funded by Summit For Stem Cell, a nonprofit organization headquartered in San Diego.

Abrams says his second visit to Machu Picchu was better than the first because he was surrounded by people who love him, including other Parkinson’s patients and their caregivers, family members and spouses.

The team started training in late spring of 2016. Most of the participants are San Diegans, but others came from far and wide: Georgia, Idaho and included an ex-pat who makes his home in Thailand.

Here’s the story.

Abrams was diagnosed with PD

in October 2013, the day he turned 59. On an impulse, he immediately volunteered for the Machu Picchu trek, then in the planning stage.

He describes the seven-day trek as “a celebration, adventure, and ordeal all in one.” The group took the road less traveled, walking up over 15,000 feet to the summit of the Salcantay Trail instead of the usual Inca Trail, which normally fills up with tourists.

Abrams said the Salcantay weaved up and down through changing habitats from cold alpine high ground to hot steamy jungle.

“We were astonished by massive cubic rock formations angled skyward like white rockets streaked with caramel markings,” he said, adding that this was evidence of the enormous seismic power that shaped the “Sacred Valley of the Incas,” which is riven by the Urubamba River. It’s also the Incan heartland and the location of Machu Picchu and other archeological sites.

Abrams said the trekkers saw dozens of waterfalls decorating mountain slopes. Other ridges were punctured by Incan graves punched into the rock. They heard the roar of the Urubamba River which projects a clamorous sound as it slices through the valley as surging white water in many stretches.

On his Facebook page, Abrams noted that sometimes the trail

Hikers who have Parkinson’s Disease celebrate at the summit.

Nurse Practioner Sherrie Gould (forefront), who works at the Scripps Clinic Movement Disorders Clinic and volunteers for Summit, is the originator and organizer of the hikes.

SEE ABRAMS, Page 11

Machu Picchu hikers along the trail.

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Hikers at the summit, Suyroqocha.

COVER STORY

ABRAMS CONTINUED FROM Page 10

would double back and landforms would cushion the clamor. “This is where the sounds of silence revealed themselves in the surrounding jungle: flapping butterfly wings, leaves rustling, birds chirping, and insects buzzing their primordial flight plans. We saw a terrified mouse playing dead in the root knuckles of an ancient tree, lizards, and a huge spider motionless as death, ruthlessly alive and waiting to kill, in a jacket suitable for a Formula One race car driver. “Some of the flowers were mystical including one species with little spherical bubbles that in the sun’s reflection seemed to shine their own golden light. We passed by luxurious passion fruit and coffee plantation and meadows worth of the 23rd Psalm.�

By happenstance, Abrams and lead expedition guide John Hauf lagged behind the rest of the group for most of a day. “John is one of the world’s great hikers. He proved to me that walking slowly and building a stop into each set of steps enables you to achieve the faster overall pace. Instead of thinking about ‘making it’ or ‘keeping up’ you have time to let the tranquility of your surroundings enchant you. He taught me so much more, and made me rethink my attitude about the natural world. For this time I will always be grateful.�

The third day the hikers had to traverse an area where the path had been obliterated by a rock slide. The trail was marked by numerous drops ranging from 600 to 700 feet above the

Urubamba. “We were walking over bridges fabricated out of tree branches and trunks that rolled like ball bearings,� Abrams said. “There were no railings.

John held my hand to get me across because I’m afraid of heights. I actually looked down and saw large volumes of water pooling and bubbling and then falling at great speed. I was able to risk that look only because of John’s helping hand.�

The path sometimes narrowed in width from 18 inches to two feet. Navigating these ledges was made more hazardous because at at least one spot the trail was covered with what looked like small pieces of rip-rap, or pebble-like stones the size of rocks. “This material was loose and would give way when we stepped,� Abrams said. “Our hiking poles were useless because they’d get stuck in the rocks. You’re holding these useless polls and there’s a 700-foot drop with no guardrail.�

It was amazing, but it wasn’t all glorious, said Abrams.

There were gnats in some places, “right out of Exodus.� Their bites left pock marks on the hikers’ legs, arms, and other exposed areas of skin.

On the first day it rained. The hikers were on a road that was widely used by pack animals.

It was impossible to completely avoid stepping on fresh and rain-softened animal droppings.

The droppings and mud covered the hikers’ shoes and some of the camping equipment.

When it finally dried, it caked into a mortar that would come off shoes and equipment as a fine powdery dust.

The thought that he was breathing in dusty

About Summit For Stem Cell Summit For Stem Cell is a nonprofit group of patients, patient advocates, clinicians and scientists working to educate and support leading-edge stem-cell treatments for Parkinson’s disease — a dopamine-deficiency caused by the destruction of nerves that produce the neurotransmitter which helps the brain modulate movement and other basic functions.

DECEMBER 2016 |

animal droppings made Abrams imagine that he could smell an awful stench that sickened him. The odor stopped afflicting him when nurse practitioner Sherrie Gould, Summit’s director, reminded him that PD had robbed him of his sense of smell years ago. Hallucinations of this sort are a known PD symptom.

On days one and two, Abrams had to work through a stomach infection and another day with vertigo that made him dizzy and retch if he stood up or turned too quickly. He was forced to spend several hours on the floor of a train station, leaning his back on a bench, until the hikers returned. “But as I rested, I made friends from Germany and Holland, bonded with Carlos, one of our fantastic Peruvian guides, with Ray Bezverkov another person with Parkinson’s, and a few Summit trekkers watching over Ray: his wife Judy, her sister Sandy Bassham, and friend Ellie Lockett.�

Abrams is also grateful to Gould and her husband, Jeff Seckendorf, for always keeping them on the path and moving forward.

Abrams says he also learned an important life lesson: You can be happy even when you don’t feel well. “I never knew that before. At times I felt the misery of stomach ailments but never once felt mentally unhappy.� “Most of all I am humbled by the love and support shown by my Summit colleagues. I’d be turning into worm food without them. They got me through this awfully wonderful trek alive and better than ever.�

Abrams has decided he wants to be around loving and supportive people forever by trying to become more loving and generous himself.

11

Reaching out to help others instead of focusing on being a poor-me person with Parkinson’s.

Each person with Parkinson’s has his own unique symptoms. For Abrams it’s “quiet� tremors which he can feel, but they aren’t noticeable to others and are usually accompanied by dizzy spells. His mouth locks up, his body gets rigid, his legs cramp, his toes splay and he feels like a high-frequency voltage is coursing through his body. “It feels like I’m being electrocuted,� Abrams says, “I just have to work through these moments, keep moving. Force my body to do the things that dopamine-deficiency hampers.

Fight back because Parkinson’s is always trying to make me not move.�

Born in Brooklyn and raised on Long Island, Abrams, an engineer, is on disability from Hewlett-Packard.

To participate in the hike to Machu Picchu and the Andes, hikers paid all their own expenses: $2,200 for the trek plus airfare. Each hiker was required to raise a minimum of $2,000 for the Summit For Stem Cell research. Abrams raised $4,925 from his supporters and the trek itself has raised over $135,000, with donations still coming in.

Nurse Practioner Sherrie Gould, who works at the Scripps Clinic Movement Disorders Clinic and volunteers for Summit, is the originator and organizer of the hikes, the first to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro, the second to the base camp of Mt. Everest, and the third to Machu Picchu.

We are now in North Park!

Summit is funding a pioneering new long-term treatment that takes a patient’s own skin cells and transforms them into dopamine neurons, with the goal of transplanting them back into the patient’s brain. This will replace those neurons lost in the progression of the disease, with the expectation that it will significantly lessen the motor-movement impairment from Parkinson’s disease.

The technology of creating induced pluripotent stem cells (IPSC) from skin cells was developed by Dr. Shinya Yamanaka in Japan in 2006. These cells can develop into all the cell types in the body, including dopamine neurons. Dr. Yamanaka was awarded a Nobel Prize for this work in 2012.

At the Center for Regenerative Medicine at the Scripps Research Institute, skin biopsies from patients have been converted into IPSCs, which are then programmed to become dopamine neurons in culture dishes.

Their short-term objective is to obtain FDA approval for a pilot project to implant these neurons into ten individuals from the Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorder Center at Scripps Clinic.

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In the longer term, Summit believes the therapy will revolutionize medicine, ushering an era in which therapies focus on repairing damage rather than just finding cures. This is important to patients like Abrams because by the time they are diagnosed they have lost up to 80 percent of their dopamine-producing neurons. A cure would be preventative but would not restore quality of life.

The researchers at Scripps have entered the first phase of discussions with the FDA and, depending on funding, hope to transplant these patient-specific dopamine neurons into their first patient in the first quarter of 2018.

To learn more about Parkinson’s disease and Summit’s research efforts, or to donate to this worthy cause, please visit www.summitforstemcell.org or contact Sherrie Gould at (858) 361-4811.

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Veenga a visitarnos en nuestra nueva tienda! ¡V

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DECEMBER 2016 |

3420 Dwight Street 92104 Seller will Entertain offers between $629,000 & $649,000. Cute Spanish home with Mission Style front door, beamed ceilings, 2 fireplaces, extra room for office/den/computer room, Roman shower/tub, walk in closet with custom built-in dresser, wood floors, Central A/C & Heat, and recessed lighting just to mention a few of the amenities. Drought tolerant landscaping surround the property with Malibu exterior lighting. New backyard patio with privacy bamboo. Walk to everything cool in North Park- restaurants, cafes, nightlife, and Bird & Balboa Parks!

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| DECEMBER 2016

COMMUNAL BRUSHSTROKES True North Tavern pairs artists with easels — spiced with food and drink

True North Tavern resident artist Fadk Jak.

True North Tavern customer Rachelle Cadelina (left) chats with writer Sue Taylor.

BY SUSAN TAYLOR PHOTOS BY JIM CHILDERS

Think North Park and coffee, craft beer, yoga and pizza come to mind. Coffee, craft beer, yoga, pizza, repeat, coffee, craft beer, yoga, pizza.

Our North Park culture also includes an appreciation for public art: colorful and abstract murals on

the exterior walls of University Avenue businesses, finely crafted murals inside the new Barons Market, graphic designs on utility boxes, studios and galleries on Ray Street, art classes on 30th at Art Academy, wine bar events pairing cabernet with painting, and the lively, interactive Communal Brushstrokes

Resident artist Veneil Jones III.

events at True North Tavern.

Since July 2015, Tuesday nights at True North are more than burgers and beer. At 9 p.m. the dance floor accommodates easels, paints, and brushes, and patrons are encouraged to express themselves through art. No experience required, a polite group lined up to dabble; just a

friendly way to meet new people while the DJ spins Smokey Robinson and other “Soul Train” tunes.

One customer, Rachel Cadelina, graciously shared her canvas with a stranger.

Along the south interior wall of the spacious bar, four or five artists display their own work for sale. One

evening in November, Enrique Plazola and Fadi Jak had several drawings, as did Patrick Seibt, who said that True North was the best venue to share his paintings.

True North Tavern’s manager, David Cabal, is proud of the Tuesday night gatherings, and he enjoys bringing in local artists and DJs. The night was chilly, but at 9 p.m. when Communal Brushstrokes got underway, the retractable glass doors facing the sidewalk came down, providing warmth and security.

Also popular are the Sunday morning football brunches, and Cabal hopes to add Saturday breakfast fare.

Out front is ample patio seating, while the interior is spacious and comfortable. A large U-shaped bar runs down the center of the space, high tables and bar stools are scattered around the floor, and several booths provide for a nice place to enjoy the many biscuit and bun chicken and burger combos.

Cabal is partial to Bell’s 2-Hearted IPA, but the beer list has something for everyone. Service is efficient and courteous, the food is tasty and plentiful, and the atmosphere is welcoming. The crowd tends toward the 30-40 age group.

True North Tavern is well-run.

Several security personnel keep an eye on things, and the tavern has a positive relationship with law enforcement. Adjacent local businesses are appreciative of the boost in business that they have seen.

Communal Brushstrokes on Tuesday nights, trivia and bingo on other nights, dinner and a beverage, spending time with North Park neighbors — all add up to a fun experience and easy night out.

DECEMBER 2016 |

15

Sensors and Software are Cutting Costs At Petco Park Qualcomm provides processor and OSIsoft provides software San Diego’s Petco Park expects to cut operating expenses by 25 percent over the next five years, thanks to real-time monitoring of its energy and water use. The park is not installing new pumps or meters, instead adding sensors and gateways to its current infrastructure to create a smart stadium. “We can see exactly how much water, power and gas each operation uses ballpark-wide, and can work with our operators and tenants to manage usage and increase the reliability and overall performance of the venue,� said Randy McWilliams, senior director, facility services for the San Diego Padres.

The system is expected to slash expenses by enabling the facility to anticipate and prevent power outages, pump failures and turbine failures, and to monitor the resource use of each vendor in the stadium. Gateways powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors collect data from stadium infrastructure systems and stream it over both wired and wireless networks to software developed

by Qualcomm partner OSIsoft. The system accepts both analog and digital inputs and supports multiple communication protocols.

For Qualcomm, turning its hometown of San Diego into a smart city

Qualcomm Intelligent Solutions President Kiva Allgood said the system her company has developed with OSIsoft could be used for almost any multidwelling unit, or for multitenant office buildings.

would be a home run, and the chipmaker has already made it to first base by connecting Petco Park.

Smart city game plan Qualcomm Intelligent Solutions President Kiva Allgood said the system her company has developed with OSIsoft could be used for almost any multidwelling unit, or for multitenant office buildings. She said Qualcomm has already implemented similar systems across its own campuses. “We’ve been able to actually make bold statements within our own sustainability goals because now we have the data in a finite enough fash-

‘We can see exactly how much water, power and gas each operation uses ballpark-wide, and can work with our operators and tenants to manage usage and increase the reliability and overall performance of the venue, said Randy McWilliams, senior director, facility services for the San Diego Padres.

ion that it is actionable,� she said. “So instead of it just being for metering for a bill at the end of the month, we’re actually able to see, based off of the information coming off the equipment, what types of things we need to do during the month to be able to either prevent an accident or improve efficiency. So that same type of concept we’re able to apply really to any currently built building.�

Adding smart systems to existing buildings is a much more scalable approach to smart city development than building new “smart buildings.�

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Qualcomm sees the combination of sensors, gateways and software as a way to bring the “internet of things� to municipalities in an affordable way. “Qualcomm Intelligent Solutions’ approach to creating smarter cities starts with repurposing existing infrastructure, including existing water and gas systems installed in facilities such as Petco Park and other large event venues,� said Allgood.

Allgood knows that connecting one ballpark is less complex than connecting an entire city, but OSIsoft has a proven track record with customers that collect data from multiple locations. The software company said one of its customers, Excel Energy, has saved $46 million over the past six years. OSIsoft sees smart cities as a logical market for its data collection platform. “The foundation of the smart city is data,� said Martin Otterson, SVP of sales, marketing and industry at OSIsoft. Otterson hopes that a home run at Petco Park will start conversations with other ballparks in other cities. “There are approximately 12,000 stadiums in the world, and many are in regions and cities mapping out plans to use energy and water in smarter ways,� he said. The challenge

CLUES ACROSS 1. Poets 6. Insecticide 9. Insect feeler 13. Intestinal 14. “Drum Boogie� singer 15. Region 16. Chinese automotive co.

17. Served before entree 18. Dwells 19. Boosted 21. Tells players what to do 22. Infections 23. Hoover is one 24. Expresses surprise 25. Basketball position (abbr.)

27. Fresh Prince of __ Air 28. Hindu queens 30. Easter marshmallow treat 32. Where coaches stand 35. Women 37. Thai province 38. Drenches 40. Matters that settle 43. Not wide 44. Elaborate garments 45. Swiss river 47. South Dakota 48. Instinctive part of the mind 50. Some put this in their hair 51. French young women 53. Two legged support 55. Stimulates the heart 59. Waste matter 60. Nocturnal rodents 61. The Who anthem “__ O’Riley�

62. Old age personified 63. Remnant 64. Disband 65. Nanosecond 66. Referee declares 67. A citizen of Iran CLUES DOWN 1. “ER� actress Leslie 2. Wings 3. Power to direct and control 4. Small freshwater fishes of Eurasia 5. Scandium 6. Earnhardt h d andd Hunter are two 7. Two-parted 8. Foul-mouthed bear from the movies 9. Tan horses 10. Song 11. Draw blood 12. High-ranking Turkish officer

14. Determine time 17. Begets 20. Watch chain 21. Constellation representing a dog 23. Indian dish 25. Legumes 26. Romanian river 28. An auto you don’t keep 29. Signs, __, delivers 30. Police Department 31. Relating to teaching 33. Sportscaster Patrick 34. A way to glide 36. Fathered 39. Statute mile (abbr.)

41. One-thousandth of an inch 42. Discounts 46. Rockers from Georgia 48. Norwegian playwright 49. Herbs 51. S. China seaport 52. Stout sword 54. Pasty 55. Fill a suitcase 56. Japanese weapon 57. Dark brown or black

will be bringing together each city’s disparate stakeholders in pursuit of a common set of solutions. “On average a city has about 40 different planning departments,� said Qualcomm’s Allgood. “But I would say we’re starting to see a transformation in how they think about that infrastructure and its engagement with the citizens in a different way.�

Allgood said she is encouraged by a federal grant from the Department of Transportation and the Department of Energy that is focused on “gaining insight and improving the performance of the current infrastructure, ‌ a testament to the fact that people are starting to recognize they’re going to have to use technology in a different way.â€?

The above article is from RCR Wireless. Reprinted with permision.

Martha DeGrasse has been creating content for RCR Wireless News since 2011. Her current focus areas are wireless infrastructure and heterogeneous networks. Email: mdegrasse@ardenopco.com

58. Grain crop 60. Time used in far western states 64. Drill instructor

Solution

16

| DECEMBER 2016

KIDS KIDS’ KORNER 4BYKIDS

Make Your Own Ornament Materials: Undecorated Christmas Ornament White acrylic Paint Sharpies Ribbon (optional) Directions: Paint Hand White Place bottom of ornament on palm of your hand and close fingers Allow to dry Once dry, add decorations with sharpie Ref: www.allyou.com/

SoCal FUN with Rhoads Hi my name is Rhoads, I am a 13 year old SoCal resident and fun enthusiast. One of my favorite fun activities includes my love of animals and outings with my beloved Miniature Australian Shepard, Blue Heeler mix rescue dog Roo. One of our favorite dog day activities is going to Fiesta Island.

An island near Mission Bay Park that is off-leash for dogs. The wide open space gives Roo plenty of room to chase her ball one of her favorite past-times and she often will even chase the ball right into the water.

Sometimes doggy activities get dirty and we have to head over to the dog wash. After Roo roll's around in the mud we go to Top Dog wash and groom. Top Dog has everything you need so you don't have to bring the mess home. They have self wash or you can drop your dog off and have the dirty work done for you. If you don't mind the effort its fun to be hands on with your pup.

After Roo is tired out and clean we stop in to Pet Me Please, only a short walk away from Top Dog. We're greeted by squeeker and beaker the two resident birds and sniff around to find Roos' favorite

treat, a new ball, Roo thinks you can never have too many.

I live in a small space so Roo is the perfect fit for me but I do still enjoy the company of other animals like kittens! The SPCA on Gaines Street is a great place to go visit dogs, cats, kittens, rabbits and animals of all sorts. I especially enjoy playing with the kittens and look forward to volunteering there when I'm old enough. Maybe one day I will even find the perfect match and get to take a kitten home.

Cali Life Co. Kids is an art project inspiring local youth to develop their creative skills, building confidence and experience within and beyond their communities. Have FUN coloring! Share your work with us on facebook, twitter or instagram and be entered to WIN prizes for the new school year!

DECEMBER 2016 |

Youth Hero of the Month: Murilo Murilo Fernando de Jesus is not your typical 3-year-old! While most toddlers are learning basic motor skills and functions, Murilo has been mastering his skills at the skate park. His father Ronisson, formally a pro-surfer, created a surfing simulator in their backyard for building balance. At the age of 1, Murilo started practicing his balance on the surfboard, suspended between 2 trees. His family and friends observed his natural talent getting stronger each day.

Ronisson was never a skateboarder, however with a stroke of coincidence he and his wife, Juliana, brought Murilo to a skate park one day to visit friends. When Murilo noticed the skateboard, his attention sparked immediately and he began to plead with his parents to let him try. At the age of 2, Murilo was skating on his own and doing tricks. His father learned to skate as well so they could practice together.

Murilo was born in Brazil, however he is moving with his family to San Diego in the spring! He has been chosen by a local company, Cali Life Co. to be a sponsored youth athlete, meaning they will cover costs of safety equipment, training fees, and any competition costs accrued while he is here.

We decided to get to know Murilo by asking him a few questions…

Hi Murilo! How old were you when you began skateboarding, and where?

Hello! I started skateboarding when I was 2 ½ years old! I was living in Bertioga, Brazil.

Actually, no, all my friends are older than me!

Which skateboarders influence you the most?

Bob Burnquist and Pedro Barros! They are the best!

What is your favorite trick?

“Boneless” is my favorite, also the Ollie!

What would you say to someone afraid to try skateboarding?

Just try it and you will enjoy it!

Does your family skateboard?

My dad is a surfer but he is learning skateboarding with me!

What is the most exciting thing about skateboarding?

Just having fun!

Do you have other hobbies?

I love to surf!

What do you want to say to the people in California?

Wait for me!!! I am coming very soon!

Murilo, you are a brave human being! We are happy to honor you “Hero of the Month!”

You can find more information on Murilo and other sponsored youth athletes at www.CaliLifeCo.com/The-Team Follow him on Instagram: @MurilnhoSk8

Do you have friends at your age who skate?

Youth Hero of the Month At Local Umbrella Media we are dedicated to serving the communities, kids, and causes that make our unique neighborhoods great. Every day local kids go out and do incredible things.

Tell us about a Youth Hero you know. Share your story, info@LocalUmbrella.com, and help us find the next Youth Hero of the Month.

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| DECEMBER 2016

The Nat’s Special Exhibitions

Clap and Fling

‘Animals: Machines in Motion’ and ‘Ultimate Dinosaurs’ ‘Animals: Machines in Motion’ explores natural engineering while ‘Ultimate Dinosaurs’ puts a new twist on prehistoric creatures by using innovative technology The San Diego Natural History Museum brings the natural world to life with two new, temporary exhibitions scheduled for late 2016 and the first half of 2017.

“Animals: Machines in Motion” opened Oct. 29 and will remain on view through Jan. 2, 2017. The highly-interactive exhibition explores animals and plants as machines built for survival, complete with pumps, pipes, insulation, motors, springs, and intelligence gathering devices. In addition, Animals features a life-size cast skeleton of Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex ever discovered.

Using real specimens, life-like models, amazing video footage, and interactive displays, Animals investigates how cheetahs run so fast; how the bite force of an extinct fish made it a top predator; how a toucan stays cool in the jungle; how a Venus fly trap detects its next meal; and how many other organisms function as machines in order to survive, move, and discover.

“Animals: Machines in Motion” also presents examples of biomimicry, man-made innovations inspired by mechanisms found in nature. One exhibit focuses on Swiss engineer George de Mestral’s examination of burdock burrs stuck in his dog’s fur. He determined the burrs’ hooked ends made them perfect for clinging to clothing and other looped fibers, and went on to patent the Velcro fastener in 1955.

“By presenting the inner-workings of plants and animals, Animals gives us a newfound appreciation for the machine inside every living thing,” said Judy Gradwohl, president and CEO at the San Diego Natural History Museum. “The exhibition delivers captivating information on how plants and animals evolve to maximize survival. Especially when combined with our many permanent offerings, including our newly opened exhibition featuring citizen science and objects from our Research Library, a visit to the NAT is a terrific value.”

“Animals: Machines in Motion” is present-

ed in both English and Spanish. The bilingual exhibition was developed by The Field Museum in partnership with the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, with support provided by the Searle Funds at The Chicago Community Trust and ITW Foundation.

The San Diego presentation is made possible with financial support from the County of San Diego and the City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture.

Next on the docket is “Ultimate Dinosaurs,” an exhibition featuring 16 fullyarticulated dinosaur specimens from unusual locations in the Southern Hemisphere. It will be on view through Sept. 4, 2017. The exhibition reveals a new breed of dinosaurs that evolved in isolation in South America, Africa, and Madagascar — dinosaurs unfamiliar to popular imagination and virtually unknown to most North Americans.

Cutting-edge 21st century technology puts a new twist on these prehistoric creatures, bringing them to life like never before.

Through the use of augmented reality (AR) technology, full-scale dinosaurs are transformed into flesh-covered animated beasts.

This same technology highlights the continental drift that altered the landscape of the ancient world, setting the stage for the evolution of these bizarre creatures.

“Ultimate Dinosaurs” is presented by The Science Museum of Minnesota and was produced by the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) in Toronto. Curation of the exhibition was led by Dr. David Evans, curator of vertebrate paleontology in the ROM’s Department of Natural History. The San Diego presentation is made possible with financial support from the City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture.

Built to Survive exhibit

Giraffe

Tickets Tickets are now on sale.

Admission rates: $28 adults; $26 seniors/ students/military; $15 youth (3-17).

Children 2 and under are free.

Cheetah

DECEMBER 2016 |

‘Ultimate Dinosaur’ is presented by The Science Museum of Minnesota.

Display from ‘Ultimate Dinosaurs’ exhibit.

Burrs

Jaws

Mantis Shrimp

Luna moth

Dunkleosteus model

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| DECEMBER 2016

The Hillcrest Wind Ensemble is a program of the LGBT Center.

Hillcrest Wind Ensemble Presents ‘Holiday Rhapsody’ The holiday spirit will be in the air as the Hillcrest Wind Ensemble presents “Holiday Rhapsody” on Saturday, Dec. 17, at the San Diego Woman's Club, 2557 Third Ave. in Banker’s Hill.

Concert time is 7 p.m. and will include music of Christmas, Hanukah, and New Years

Eve. Guest harpist Tasha Smith Godinez and a special appearance by the Hillcrest Wind Ensemble Holiday Singers will add to the festivities.

Home-baked goods and other refreshments will be available during intermission. Come

Pro Kids | First Tee San Diego Women’s Golf Tournament

more than golf skills. Their grades are improving and their confidence is growing as they progress through the steps of the First Tee program.”

Carini Heating and Air Conditioning is the presenting sponsor for the Women’s Golf Tournament, and is underwriting a variety of expenses and helping to market the event to players and potential organization donors.

Company CEO and Founder Gabriel Carini learned of the Pro Kids/The First Tee San Diego program while golfing in a tournament that had a number of First Tee kids participating. “I was so impressed with the maturity and talent of the kids I met from the program, and they really turned me into a supporter by the end of the tournament,” Carini said. “We love that the program stresses both life and academic skills, while using the game of golf to teach concepts such as patience, persistence, honesty and teamwork.”

There are still a few tournament slots open for singles or foursomes. Details are available at thefirstteesandiego.org, or by calling (619) 582-7884 The 18-hole, par-3 course will feature special fun-challenge holes sponsored by Srixon/Cleveland Golf, Innova Disc Golf and Suja Juice, to name a few. A few hole sponsorships are still available.

About Pro Kids | The First Tee San Diego: Founded in 1994 by former NFL player Ernie Wright, Pro Kids’ mission is to challenge underserved youth to excel in life by promoting character development, life skills, and values through education and the game of golf. Pro Kids serves more than 1,200 youth ages 7-17 each year at campuses in City Heights and Oceanside.

About Carini Heating and Air Conditioning: Founded in 2005, Carini is a San Diego Heating and Air Conditioning company that specializes in high energy efficient ductless mini split technologies. The company believes in the importance of helping under privileged children gain access to high quality educational, athletic and character building opportunities.

Raising money for underprivileged children Pro Kids | The First Tee San Diego will hold its first Women’s Golf Tournament at the Colina Park Golf Course in City Heights on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 1 to 5 p.m.

The tournament proceeds will go 100 percent to supporting the nonprofit’s mission of providing a safe haven for underprivileged kids in the community, through the game of golf and a variety of character building, leadership and academic skill activites for kids age 7 to 17.

“Golf is the hook. Education is the pay-off,” according to the late Ernie Wright, a former NFL Charger and founder of Pro Kids | The First Tee San Diego. This is just one of many motivational sayings Wright used with the kids and donors that helped him start this innovative program in 1994.

The program is headquartered at the Colina Park Golf Course with a North County branch near the Oceanside Municipal Golf Course.

Young people are recruited to Pro Kids | The First Tee to learn the game of golf, but in the process, receive academic assistance and are required to actively participate in the organization’s Academy. At the Academy, students must enroll for full-year increments, and commit to attending at least two days of afterschool classes per week. The First Tee facility also gives the kids a safe haven to hang out after school in neighborhoods that can be dangerous.

“The Women’s Tournament is a fun and high-profile event, which give us another opportunity to introduce more people to the great work that is being done here. Everyday we are inspired by the growth we see in the children participating in our program,” said Andrew Holets, CEO of Pro Kids | The First Tee San Diego. “They are developing so much

out and enjoy the sounds of the holidays.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door and are available at The Windsmith, 3875 Granada Ave., in North Park and at www.sdartstix.com.

The 45 piece Hillcrest Wind Ensemble is in its 30th year of performing and is a program

of the LGBT Center acting as a musical ambassador to the community as a whole.

For more information, call (619) 692-2077, Ext. 814, or visit hillcrestwindensemble.com.

Free Holiday Events Spreckels Organ Pavilion

Enjoy free organ concerts at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park beginning at 2:00 PM each Sunday. The Organ Pavilion features the world's largest outdoor pipe organ, a San Diego landmark for over 90 years, where organists resound holiday favorites, waltzes and show tunes from the organ's monstrous 32-foot lead alloy pipes.

Dates: Ongoing

Old Town Holiday in the Park & Las Posadas

See Old Town State Park decked out for the season during Old Town Holiday in the Park & Las Posadas. Guests can learn how residents celebrated the holidays in the 1800s while enjoying candlelight tours, holiday singers, live performances and complimentary refreshments Dates: December 10-11, 2016

Dr. Seuss' How the Ginch Stole Christmas

Take a walk around Balboa Park and discover its beautiful architecture. Be sure not to miss the "Whoville" decorations in the plaza outside the Old Globe Theatre, which are on display to coincide with the theatre's annual holiday production of Dr. Seuss' How the Ginch Stole Christmas!

Dates: Mid-November through December

Mission Bay Christmas Boat Parade of Lights

Delight in the festive gatherings along the Mission Bay Christmas Boat Parade of Lights.

Dozens of brightly illuminated powerboats and sailboats parade along Mission Bay. Date: December 10, 2016

Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade

Enjoy the twinkling waters of the San Diego Bay and more than 100 private boats decorated with holiday lights for the annual Port of San Diego Bay Parade of Lights over two weekends in December. Great views are available on dry land from Shelter Island, Harbor Island, the Embarcadero, Seaport Village, Marina Park and Coronado's Ferry Landing.

Dates: December 13 & 18, 2016

Poinsettia Bowl Gaslamp March

Rock out at the Poinsettia Bowl Gaslamp March. Kicking off two days prior to the annual Poinsettia Bowl, which is played in San Diego's Qualcomm Stadium, bands representing the two Bowl football teams line up at opposite ends of Fifth Avenue in downtown's Gaslamp Quarter and face-off in an old-fashion battle of the bands.

Date: December 19, 2016

DECEMBER 2016 |

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SDSU Named Top School for Studying Abroad

SDSU ranks No. 1 among public universities for students studying abroad when compared to the percentage of university enrollment.

San Diego State University students are leading the way when it comes to studying abroad. The Institute for International Education’s Open Doors report lists SDSU at No. 9 in the nation for study abroad.

The report uses data for the 201415 academic year, during which 2,422 students studied in foreign countries. In the most recent academic year, 2015-16, a record number of 2,660 students studied abroad.

The Open Doors ranking takes into account the total number of students studying abroad. When compared to the percentage of university enrollment, SDSU ranks No. 1 for public universities. More than seven percent of SDSU students studied abroad during the 2014-15 academic year.

Life-changing experience

“Having the opportunity to explore the world during their college years is a transformational experience for our students,” said SDSU vice president for student affairs Eric Rivera. “This is especially true for students who have not spent time in another country, which is why it is important that we provide the opportunity for all students to

"The wide philanthropic support of our study abroad programs shows the value in students acquiring a global perspective as part of the college experience," ALAN SWEEDLER, ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS - INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS

study abroad. The skills, perspectives, and friendships made during their time abroad will stay with them for a lifetime.”

Increasing participation in study abroad programs is a central part of the university’s strategic plan, Building on Excellence.

“Study abroad opportunities are an integral part of student engagement and student success,” said Chukuka S. Enwemeka, provost and senior vice president. “The university’s goal is to offer a broad variety

of programs so that every student who wishes to broaden his or her horizon and experience a different culture and learning environment can make that dream a reality.”

Where Aztecs go

SDSU students studied in 65 different countries during the 2014-15 academic year. The top five most popular destinations were Spain, Mexico, Italy, the United Kingdom and Germany. With more than 350 study abroad programs to choose

from, SDSU students can participate in academically challenging, professionally relevant and personally engaging experiences.

SDSU’s study abroad programs can be tailored to the individual needs and goals of the participants.

Students can select from options including spring break, summer, semester or year-long study programs at a foreign university.

Exchange, research and internship programs are also available.

“Providing an international education has been a central part of SDSU’s mission for many years,” said Alan Sweedler, associate vice president for Academic Affairs International Programs. “Study abroad programs expose students to the global work environment and offer them experiences that are highly sought after by today’s employers.”

Donors to The Campaign for SDSU have also endorsed the importance of international experiences for students by funding study abroad scholarships.

"The wide philanthropic support of our study abroad programs shows the value in students acquiring a global perspective as part of the college experience," said Mary Ruth Carleton, vice president for

University Relations and Development.

For example, Ron and Alexis Fowler's recent $25 million donation to the College of Business Administration includes support for students who would like to study abroad. The Fowler International Experience provides students interested in international business and comparative economic systems the opportunity to participate in international internships and study.

Open Doors report

The Open Doors report is published annually by the Institute of International Education, an independent, non-profit organization, in partnership with the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. The annual statistical survey reports on the number of international scholars at U.S. universities, international students enrolled in pre-academic Intensive English Programs, and U.S. students studying abroad.

SDSU NewsCenter

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| DECEMBER 2016

Sanitation Drivers Lift Spirits for North Park Woman Lost wallet returned Picking up trash and saving the day.

It’s all part of the job for City of San Diego sanitation drivers Nick Burks and Nathaniel Flores.

“We’re human, it’s human nature to do good things and good things happen to you,” said Burks.

And it was a simple gesture that brought a great deal of relief to Annie Jones Martin, resident of North Park.

Jones Martin was gassing up her car on typical Thursday morning in October when she inadvertently left

her wallet on the roof of her car.

“As I’m driving up the freeway someone pulls up alongside me and honks and waves her wallet at me and I thought, what? And I look in my purse and no wallet,” said Jones Martin.

She was devastated. Just a few days from traveling to visit an ailing friend in Colorado, panic started to set in. The wallet contained her driver license, credits cards and $300 in cash. Along came Burks and Flores on their usual trash pick-up route at University Avenue and Boundary Street. They spotted the wallet in a busy intersection and stopped to pick it up.

“We made a decision to find the license, get the address and we noticed the address was on our route,” said Flores.

A few minutes later, they pulled

City sanitation workers Nathaniel Flores and Nick Burks, local heroes.

up at the home in North Park.

“I just burst into tears, he comes in and hands me my wallet, all my friends are hugging him, my husband is hugging him, we’re all thrilled,” said Jones Martin.

Burks and Flores are assigned to what’s called the “greens route,” picking up yard waste around the city to be recycled into compost at the Miramar Landfill. Crews on the greens route work in two-person teams.

“We’re always out there, in the alleys and streets that nobody ever goes in,” said Burks.

Both men said they didn’t think twice about returning the wallet, and they hope to set an example for people to always do the right thing.

“I have to say, it restored my faith in human nature,” said Jones Martin.

Annie was relieved to get her lost wallet back.

Giving a thank you hug.

DECEMBER 2016 |

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