home & garden
Fall 2014
• Home Additions • Interior Decorating • Landscaping • Hauling • Flooring • Tile & Stone • Furnishings • Bed & Bath • Garden Centers • Solar Energy • Outdoor Fountains • Heating/ Air Conditioning • Real Estate • Home Automation
A special supplement to
THE COAST NEWS GROUP
SEPTEMBER 2014
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SEPT. 19, 2014
Put yourself in the heart of it all. 18 Miles of Trails • 1100 Acres of Open Space 19-Acre Community Park • Regional Park Award-Winning Schools • Charming Towncenter
Established 2000. All grown up.
A Masterfully Planned Community in San Diego’s Coastal North County
SINGLE STORY HOMES SANCTUARY
OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES BELLA VISTA
San Elijo Hills Visitor Center
3-7 Bedrooms, 2.5 - 7 Baths 2,863 - 4,223 Sq. Ft. From the $800,000s
5 Bedrooms, 4 - 5.5 Baths 3,461 - 3,776 Sq. Ft. From the $800,000s
Open Daily 10 AM - 5 PM 1277 San Elijo Road San Marcos, CA 92078 760.798.1765
T: 760.653.7010
T: 760.744.5260
SanElijoHills.com
Richmond American
BRE# 143394LA-S00
Ryland Homes
BRE# 0132048
Directions: From the 5 Freeway exit La Costa Ave. heading east past El Camino Real. Turn left on Rancho Santa Fe, then right on San Elijo Road. The builders reserve the right to change prices, plans, features or amenities without prior notice or obligation. All residents automatically become members of the San Elijo Hills Master Association. Square footages are approximate.
SEPT. 19, 2014
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FALL HOME & G ARDEN
Major home transformation through one easy upgrade REGION — Throughout the day, it’s likely you open and shut every door inside your home. You’ve probably become used to the doors, and possibly even resigned to the fact that you’re stuck with the flat white model or even the six-panel variety that your home is filled with. If you’ve considered replacing your home’s interior doors, the thought of disruptive construction and considerable expense might have put you off. Dave Winter, president and CEO of HomeStory San Diego, has found a way to change all of that. The vision for HomeStory came about through Winter’s personal experience with replacing the doors in his home. When he decided he wanted to get an estimate, he had someone come out to his home. “The guy came in and told me it would probably take three days or maybe four,” Winter said. The contractor didn’t have a written quote for Winter, and also suggested that he find somewhere else for his wife and triplet 2-year-old daughters to stay during construction. Winter knew there had to be a better way. With a background in the tech industry, he developed a revolutionary device that enables measuring of doorways with 100 percent accuracy, allowing for custom fitting of doors with no construction necessary.
Additionally, the cost of replacing a door is reduced by about 30 percent as the need for high-cost laborers and construction permits is eliminated and work that would traditionally take days is reduced to two or three hours.
We come out and do a free consultation and estimate and measure all of the door openings in the home.” Dave Winter CEO of HomeStory
Realizing the industry needed such an affordable and reliable alternative for replacing interior home doors, Winter founded HomeStory and his customers couldn’t be happier. The process is simple. “We come out and do a free consultation and estimate and measure all of the door openings in the home,” Winter said. “We send the measurement data to our factory, which customizes the doors to fit, including
the painting of the doors with a high-quality finish. When we come out to your home to install the doors we are in and out in two to three hours because of the customization. There is no demo, no tearing apart door jams. The whole experience is unheard of in the industry. It’s really the best customer experience somebody can have.” Replacing your doors with HomeStory is not just quick and affordable — it’s transformational. “Doors touch every room in the house,” Winter said. “When you update the doors, it refreshes your house and brightens everything up. My customers tell me there is no other home improvement that can do this.” HomeStory offers a one-stop home improvement experience. “We sell the doors, we paint the doors at our factory and then we install them,” Winter said. “We have all kinds of doors — bedroom and bathroom swing doors, closet doors, glass and French doors and our most popular product — a new mirror reflections door that replaces the old aluminum sliding mirror doors. It’s a big upgrade and looks much more highend and sturdy.” To learn more about HomeStory San Diego or to schedule a consultation and free estimate, visit San DiegoI nter iorDoors. com or call (619) 373-1965.
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San Diego’s Master Gardeners are a valued resource By Scott Parker
Struggling with ways to control all those ants crawling on your vegetables? What about the aphids and powdery mildew wreaking havoc in your flower beds? Have any idea how to replace your lawn with drought-tolerant landscaping? There are hundreds of garden experts ready to help you at no cost thanks to the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Master Gardeners program (mastergardenerSD.org). Here in San Diego, nearly 300 Master Gardeners volunteer thousands of hours each year to provide home gardening and pest control information throughout the county, free to the public. Master Gardeners are trained by the University of California Cooperative Extension and the County of San Diego Farm and Home Advisor experts in all aspects of home gardening with special emphasis on new pests and issues affecting the county. Their advice is based on UCbased research that includes the innovative Pest Notes — more than 150 helpful guides to pest-related problems and plant diseases. All Pest Notes can be downloaded from the Master Gardeners’ website or by visiting the state’s comprehensive website for home gardeners at ipm.ucanr.edu. You can also pick up printed versions by visiting the UCCE office at 9335 Hazard Way, Suite 201, San Diego, CA 92123. The Master Gardener program attracts volunteers who have a passion for gardening, and
Master Gardeners throughout San Diego County offer valuable resources on a variety of gardening questions, including offering a hotline (858) 822-6910 that is staffed Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. to help educate and answer home gardening and pest management questions.
it is the county’s responsibility to make sure these trainees are given accurate, up-to-date information on home horticulture issues and taught how to properly research and respond to questions they get from local residents. In San Diego, the next Master Gar-
dener training course will be offered in 2016. Each class is popular, with only 48 students accepted from an applicant pool of 200. Master Gardeners receive six months of classroom training and educational field trips.
Instructors include experts in turf grasses, citrus, insects, vegetables, trees and shrubs. Students are certified as UCCE Master Gardeners after they successfully complete the training course and pass the final exam. The newly minted garden
experts must volunteer at least 50 hours/year in public outreach activities, helping to educate the public and answering questions on home gardening and pest management especially through the hotline (858) 822-6910, staffed Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Inquires also can be emailed to help@mastergardenerSD.org. Master Gardeners give advice at more than 100 annual events in the county, including the San Diego County Fair, in addition to speaking at local garden clubs, serving as consultants for more than 400 school gardens and 80 community gardens, and providing horticultural classes at local juvenile detention facilities. Their demonstration garden was on display this past spring at The Flower Fields in Carlsbad. This weekend, the Master Gardeners Plant Sale and Open House will be held at Balboa Park’s Casa del Prado from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Thousands of plants will be up for sale along with garden art, tools and books. And 15 different exhibits and demonstrations will cover myriad topics including water-wise plants, earth-friendly gardens, pest management, composting and gardening in small spaces. Plans are already underway for next year’s annual Spring Gardening Seminar March 21, 2015 because Master Gardeners are committed to helping other gardeners grow. Scott Parker is the UCCE Master Gardener Program Coordinator for San Diego County.
Family-owned Aspire Furniture transforms to coastal living SAN MARCOS — Aspire Furniture embraces its North County atmosphere by trading its predominantly Tuscan look for an exciting new Coastal style. Aspire, a family-owned retail furniture business in the San Diego marketplace, is highly regarded for emphasizing personal service, which helps its customers to unlock countless possibilities in terms of home furnishings. As a result of the continued success of the new coastal look in their Kauai showroom, the mainland business has decided to follow in its footsteps transitioning from Tuscan to Coastal. “We are emphasizing a fun, fresh, sophisticated coastal look that embodies multiple styles,” said Shannon Mercado, manager of the San Marcos location. “We
will feature more transitional furniture that includes plantation, cottage, and beachy as well as lots of
We are emphasizing a fun, fresh, sophisticated look that embodies multiple styles.” Shannon Mercado Manager, Aspire Furniture
great new accessories that include whales, sea glass beads and lamps in an array of sea blues and greens.” Since its origins in the 1990s, Aspire’s showroom
has satisfied its customers with quality furniture possessing a Tuscan flair. It wasn’t until four years ago when business owners Jeff and Cindy McGee headed for Kauai to open up a Coastal-oriented showroom. That vivacious style caught the attention of the mainland showroom, which hopes to have completed its Coastal transformation by Thanksgiving. All Tuscan furniture, art, and accessories are currently being sold at liquidated prices to facilitate the ongoing changes. Creating beautiful home environments for individual customers is the core principle of Aspire; according to Shannon Mercado. Going Coastal is the perfect way to embrace that philosophy. It’s a huge, stylish change for the company, and one that will match the vibrant, lively spirit of the San Diego region it serves. “It (Coastal) allows us to present a new element of excitement and gives us a fun, new direction to work with,” said Shannon. “San Diego is a coastal city and I want to bring that same refreshing level of comfort to our San Marcos showroom.” Aspire Furniture is located at 1040 Los Vallecitos Blvd., Ste. 103, San Marcos; call (760) 744-2662.
The 20th Annual International Orchid Fair starts Oct. 5 at the San Diego Botanic Garden. Orchid growers can still register to showcase their flowers. Courtesy photo
Annual international orchid fair starts Oct. 5 DEL MAR — The most highly coveted of ornamental plants, the orchid, takes center stage at the 20th Annual San Diego International Orchid Fair Oct. 4 and Oct. 5 at the San Diego Botanic Garden. Thousands of varieties of these rare, exotic and graceful plants will be on display and on sale in the Garden’s Ecke Building from specialty orchid vendors from around the world. Orchid related products such as pottery, paintings, and books will also be available for purchase. In addition, orchid care lectures will be con-
ducted throughout the day for participants to learn how to care, grow, and nurture these delicate plants. All presentations are free with paid admission or membership to the Garden. The Orchid Fair is an official American Orchid Society (AOS) event, where these magnificent flowers will be shown and judged. Local orchid growers are encouraged to participate in the AOS event. To register, growers should bring plants to be judged to the San Diego Botanic Garden’s Ecke Building Oct. 2, from 4 to 7
p.m. or Oct. 3, from 9 a.m. to noon. Orchids traditionally represent love, luxury, beauty, and strength. Different cultures throughout history have believed in the healing, disease-fighting, and protective properties of the orchid. The 20th Annual San Diego International Orchid Fair is free with paid admission or membership to the Garden. For more information on the Orchid Fair, visit the San Diego Botanic Garden’s website at: SDBGa rden.org / orch id. htm.
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Drought Tolerant Plants for the San Diego garden — Think native By Lucy Warren
Garden with California native plants. Photos by Lucy Warren
"
BLACK WHALE !
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Want a beautiful green landscape year round? Easy care and easy on water, as well? It may be time to consider what Mother Nature has to offer. California has the greatest number of indigenous plants in North America! And, they are adapted to the environment that surrounds us. In the past few years, more growers are experimenting with native plants and expanding the availability and diversity for gardeners. The natural variety is seemingly endless. There are stately trees from oaks to cypress to desert olives-from gigantic to patio size for small gardens. California native shrubs abound in all sizes, shapes and leaf colors. The manzanitas have multiple varieties which range from tall trees to groundcovers — as do the California lilacs, which provide beautiful blooms in springtime from deepest indigo to pure white. Brilliant seasonal and perennial flowering plants abound in springtime, such as Penstemon ‘Margarita BOP’ or the perky monkey flowers. Some shrubs bloom for months on end, such as the Island Bush Poppy with its large gray-green foliage and yellow poppy flowers. Or, perhaps you prefer some of the many sages. Native plants can be substituted for ornamental plants in any style of landscape. At the 2013 San Diego County Fair, San Diego Botanic Garden challenged local native plant landscaper, Greg Rubin, to design a Japanese-style garden utilizing exclusively drought tolerant native plants. The result was spectacular! Most homeowners now have a typical grass lawn, which uses a lot of water and amendments and requires frequent mowing. You can save from 60 to 90 percent of your landscape water by installing a more interesting and attractive native plant landscape. As an additional benefit, a lightly hydrated native landscape also has high fire resistance. So why don’t more homeowners use native landscaping to save water, money and maintenance? Primarily because they do not understand the plants. They may have even bought a few to put in their garden and watched them decline. It can be very difficult to mix natives with non-natives. Here’s why. Because native plants evolved in a demanding ecology, they developed survival patterns that are different from the ornamental plants we buy from most nurseries. For one thing, California natives grow in communities rather than competing for resources. If you take a drive outside of developed areas, you can easily see rocky hillsides filled with a mix of thriving native plants without irrigation or fertilizer.
LIGHTING
SERVING C ALIFORNIA SINCE 1973
Island Bush Poppy (Dendromecon harfordii)
Plus, the native plant ecology is more than just the plants. Native species grow in community with soil microorganisms to mutual benefit. These organisms help to feed and hydrate the natives with minimal interference on our part. The organisms are all around, they don’t need to be added to the soil. The two best ways to kill natives are to over water and to fertilize. This “special attention” breaks the bond between the plants and their soil benefactors, leaving them open to pathogens and disease. Drought tolerant means less water or low water, not NO water. Even natives benefit from a periodic light overhead spray—think coastal mists—to dust off the leaves and lightly rehydrate the mulch under the plants. The Master Gardener Plant Sale at Casa del Prado in Balboa Park Sept. 20 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. will have informational displays on natives and other drought tolerant plants, with experts to answer questions. Lucy Warren, UCCE Master Gardener is the co-author with Greg Rubin of “The California Native Landscape: Homeowner’s Guide to Restoring its Balance and Beauty.”
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Anderson’s La Costa Nursery gains new owners Gardeners across Southern California breathed a sigh of relief this August when it was announced that Anderson’s La Costa nursery had been acquired by a family intent on preserving the garden’s rich legacy. Anderson’s, premier nursery located two blocks west of Interstate 5 on La Costa Avenue, has been a favorite among nursery goers for nearly 60 years. “Anderson’s La Costa Nursery in an institution. It’s a place everyone needs The Lahaye residence n Olivenhain will be featured on the annual Modern Home Tour Sept. 27. The Modern-style home was designed by architect and former Encinitas resident Soheil Nakhshab. Courtesy photos
TOUR TO FEATURE HOMES WITH A MODERN STYLE By Tony Cagala
ENCINITAS — Things are developing in the right way for architect Soheil Nakhshab. The 33-year-old, who grew up in Encinitas with a passion for art and mathematics, has been fortunate enough to combine the two subjects and turn them into a successful career. As CEO/principal of Nakhshab Development Design, Inc. Nakhshab has 10 new contracts for projects in San Diego, including one slated for Cape Town, South Africa later this year. Four of his homes will be part of the 2014 Modern Home Tour Sept. 27. The tour, hosted by the Texas-based Modern Home Tours, LLC, will be showcasing Modern architecture-influenced homes in San Diego County, including the Lahaye house in Olivenhain, which Nakhshab designed. Nakhshab said the Modern concepts he employs have all existed since the 1950s and ‘60s. But for people in the industry — the designers, the developers — it’s their responsibility to make sure they show people what true living is, he said. “At the end of the day, we’re still animals. We need to have that connection with nature. It gives us a better lifestyle,” he said.
We spent 10 years waiting waiting for the perfect nursery and it was well worth the wait” Marc Smith General Manager, Anderson’s La Costa Nursery
Some of the features to look for is the beauty in minimalism, says architecht Soheil Nakhshab. The Modern Home Tour will highlight four of his designed homes in the county.
ceptable in today’s society.
What does that mean for home design in the 21st century? I think people are going to start being more conscientious about the First off, what makes modern, initial thoughts on how the home should be designed and it should be modern? Lifestyles play a big factor as far set up. as lifestyle is concerned. But aesthetically, my style is based on aesthetics How do you see the environment and that were established 50 or 60 years home design interacting together? We really take into consideration ago, which were far superior to what you see in today’s marketplace. It was our surroundings, our neighborhoods a shame a lot of those styles and ideas — where the wind is coming in, where were kind of forgotten after the late the sun is rising, where it’s setting in ‘70s and ‘80s just as the industry went order to make the home as passively downhill and you started seeing more functioning as possible where we’re mass production and it was about the not running our air conditioning sysbottom line versus putting something tem or turning on the lights 24/7. out there that would last the test of We’re creating a space where we still time and would actually be a piece of feel like we’re blending with the existart – that was not just a piece of art ing environment. that was form, but also function. For people touring the residences, Have you noticed if how people use what should they be looking for? I think some of the key features their homes has changed as times in the home are just the minimalist change? Absolutely. Let’s just look back in details. People have this tendency to time a little bit where things were a think more is better, but I think beaulot more compartmentalized. Society ty is minimalism. So it’s key for people has evolved where women before were to see the natural materials that were looked at playing the homemaker role, used, the flow of the floor plan, the where ‘Hey you just stay in the kitch- natural light of the space. Every time en and do the cooking and then come I go there, when I visit my clients, I sit out here and serve me,’ versus today, back and I just watch them live in the home life has changed where people space, and it’s just really fascinating. want to interact. It’s not just a household where it’s a husband and a wife. When a home, say not cut from the It could be a husband and a husband, same cloth, is built, what kind of imor a wife and a wife. And it’s more ac- pact can that have on the surrounding
Taking the environment and surroundings into consideration was key to designing the Lahaye residence in the Encinitas community of Olivenhain.
neighborhood and community? It’s like the old idea of keeping up with the Joneses. Most people are visual, they have to physically see something to understand it. When you can put something out there for people to physically experience and see and understand, I think it opens their minds and creates the level of expectations for themselves. So, for the future, whoever that mass producing developer is, they’ll have expectations from the consumer that they have to factor in.
to experience,” says Solana Beach gardening guru Sharon McCarty. “It’s one of the few nurseries where you can talk with people who have a deep knowledge of plants and how to care for them. They carry a great selection of plants from around the world that are locally grown. If I need something special, they’ll have it or they’ll find it for me.” Anderson’s new owners, Mariah and Marc Smiths, purchased the nursery in August. They plan to retain all of the garden center’s current employees and make significant investments to build upon the previous owner’s success. “We feel really lucky,” says manager Marc Smith. “Anderson’s has great customers and we love its peaceful and beautiful setting near the ocean. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and super talented. We spent 10 years waiting for the perfect nursery and it was well worth the wait.” According to award-winning designer Shad Bruce of Concept 45, Anderson’s style and approach set it apart from the competition. “It’s not a generic “big box” garden center,” says Bruce. “When I’m designing a custom outdoor environment or furniture,
I often collaborate with the people at Anderson’s. They have great designers whose fingers are on the pulse of style. They help you avoid costly landscaping mistakes and create beautiful outdoor spaces. I also appreciate their focus on sustainability and buying from local growers and artisans.” Stepping into Anderson’s is like stepping back into time. The boutique nursery and design center has deep roots in the gardening and horticultural community dating back to 1956 when Horace and Mary Anderson first opened their doors. Its location, just five blocks from the ocean in Leucadia, is a reminder of a bygone era for Southern California nurseries. Inside the nursery, visitors find more than an acre of plants, pottery, fountains and garden décor. The nursery stocks an abundance of plants from every continent, including: succulents, edibles, ornamentals, native and drought-tolerant, cactus, shrubs, and ornamental trees. Visitors can explore a charming gift shop, a secret garden filled with herbs, veggies and playhouse. They can also browse a greenhouse filled with a spectacular array of tropical indoor plants. The nursery carries organic fertilizers, soil amendments and pest control products, including beneficial organisms used for natural pest control. In additions to plants, Anderson’s carries a beautiful selection of pottery, and one of the largest selections of garden fountains in the area. Should you find more than fits in your car, no problem — Anderson’s can deliver. Anderson’s designers have helped hundreds of Southern California gardens beautify their yards and gardens. From vision to completion, Anderson’s designers make it easy to build a dream garden. “We can help homeowners enhance their yards and avoid costly mistakes. Through every step of the process from plant selections to placement,” says Marc Smith, manager at Anderson’s. “Our mission is simple: We help create unique, useful and beautiful outdoor living spaces.”
What: Modern Home Tours When: Sept. 27; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets: $30 in advance, $40 day of Info: Modernhometours.com
@CoastNewsGroup
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SEPT. 19, 2014
Family fun, quality tables are a tradition at Billiards & Barstools You may have heard the best way to keep families together is to gather around the table. For Darrell Meddings, owner of Billiards & Barstools, that means gathering around the pool table or game table. Billiards & Barstools sells and services pool tables, games and entertainment room furnishings. “It’s all about family fun,” Meddings said. The staff at Billiards & Barstools has a full knowledge of pool tables and antiques. Services include sales, restoration and moving tables. “Our strong points are a knowledgeable and able staff,” Meddings said. Billiards & Barstools has two locations — one in Valencia and one in San Marcos — with large, newly remodeled showrooms. “We carry the best brands,” Meddings said, “We have a complete line of pool tables, furniture and accessories.” Billiards & Barstools carries Brunswick tables, made by the No. 1 pool table manufacturer. The handcrafted Brunswick pool tables are something people can pass on for generations, Meddings said. Brunswick has been making pool tables since 1845. The complete selection of pool tables at Billiards & Barstools includes a range of table
prices from top of the line to beginner tables. “From the low end up we have a variety of brands,” said Meddings. “There’s a starting price point for everyone’s budget.”
We’re selected and called to do this because of our knowledgeable staff” Darell Meddings Owner, Billiards & Barstools
No matter what your skill level at the game, the benefit of family fun can always be enjoyed. Pool tables bring the family together. When families play pool, they talk, laugh, and joke. “That doesn’t happen looking at a picture tube,” Meddings said. Even customers who do not expect to enjoy the family purchase find themselves playing. A customer recently called to say how much his wife enjoys the pool table. “She’s out there playing pool with our son.” Meddings enjoys plain pool
with his family and friends and now plays with his grandchildren. Pool is a universal game everyone can enjoy. Families aren’t the only people visiting Billiards & Barstools. The company has serviced and installed tables for the women’s professional pool tournament at Viejas for the last 10 years. Billiards & Barstools also serviced and installed tables for the men’s pool tournament in Los Angeles. “We’re selected and called to do this because of our knowledgeable staff,” Meddings said. “Customers say when we install the tables they never have to worry, they know they’re done right.” Professional service is key. Pool tables need to be moved and set up the right way. It’s essential tables are torn apart, levels are reset, and felt is recovered correctly. There is a lot that goes into putting a table together. Tables need to be professionally leveled. The difference in the level of a table is precise — less than the thickness of a business card. “Customer service is one thing we pride ourselves in. Our guys are professionals who are trained in setup and have knowledge of antiques. I have over 40 years experience. It’s very important to have a full knowledge
of pool tables when you’re putting one together,” Meddings said. Billiards & Barstools offers full services to move, recover and restore tables in Southern California. “I hear horror stories of people trying to move tables themselves, even if it’s to have new carpet put in,” Meddings said. They mess them up, pop a slate, or snap an apron.” Pool tables should be handled by an experienced service person. They even move tables out of state. “We deliver all over, as far as Tahoe and Mammoth,” Meddings said. “We have customers coming inform 300 miles. We just delivered a professional high end table to Lake Havasu,” Meddings said. They also do in home consultation. “We will go out to the home, measure, we’ll do whatever’s necessary to provide service to customers,” Meddings said. Consultations include helping customers select game room furnishings. They carry high-end custom-made Darafeev furniture, dining game tables, chairs and barstools, said Meddings. Billiards and Barstools carries a large selection of wood furniture, leather and designer fabrics. They also carry metal and wood bar stools, “We have a huge selection with prices starting very
low,” Meddings said. Billiards & Barstools also carries kits to convert a pool table to a dining table, or ping-pong table. In addition to pool, Billiards & Barstools carries lots of other games for family fun. They carry a full line of games, foosball, air hockey, shuffleboard, ping-pong and pinball machines and a large selection of darts for professional dart players and dart leagues. “Our selection of pool cues ranges from $20 to $5,000,” Meddings said. Billiard & Barstools carries family video games, like Pac Man and Megatouch Gametime. Gameroom accessories include popcorn machines and table lights. “We’re the most exciting store around,” said Meddings. “It’s all about fun.” In today’s competitive market, Meddings said Billiards & Barstools offers 12-month financing to help customers get the game room they have always dreamed of. The San Marcos store is located at 330 Rancheros Drive, Suite 120. For more information call (760) 471-9208. The Valencia store is located at 25420 The Old Road. For more information, call (661) 799-7564. Visit billiardsandbarstools.com for directions.
Groundwater, a vital part of our water supply By Marie Waldron
Seaside living is attainable with the new Carlsbad community SummerHouse overlooking the Buena Vista Lagoon. Courtesy photo
Carlsbad’s SummerHouse makes second-home living a seaside experience With direct access to surf and sand, and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Buena Vista Lagoon, Zephyr Partners’ Carlsbad community SummerHouse is the perfect place for second-home buyers to find a new home away from home. The enclave of 35 luxury beach condos being built in the heart of Carlsbad is just steps from the beach and a short stroll to the village. Homeowners will enjoy an ideal seaside living experience with a full range of recreational options nearby, including the ocean for fishing, hiking, paddle boarding and water skiing, and Calaveras Park for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. Living the beach lifestyle is all about comfort and ease, which is why SummerHouse is offering a luxurious concierge service that will cut down on planning time and maximize fun in the sun. An onsite concierge service will be on hand to perform a range of helpful tasks such as scheduling a surf lesson or walking the dog. The concierge attendant will also be able to provide kayaks, paddle boards, beach chairs, bicycles, tents and any other equipment beach-living residents might need for their daily adventures. “SummerHouse is an oasis perfect for second-home buyers looking for a vacation home to relax and enjoy their favorite hobbies,” said Brad Termini, Zephyr Partners’ co-CEO.
More extensive at-home services such as personal grocery shopping, cooking and dry cleaning — services typically found only in a high-end resort or highrise – may also be available. These beach condos are located at 2303 Ocean St., a half-mile from the Coaster Station and a short ride to downtown San Diego, the Zoo and SeaWorld. It is also in close proximity to Palomar Airport, which offers private and commercial flights. On-site amenities include a pool, fire pits and cabanas, and a fitness center. As part of Zephyr’s unique building nature, each of the 35 floors plans, featuring California Coastal architecture, vary from building to building, with eight general styles. The single-story condominiums range from 1,800 to 2,700-square-feet with two and three bedrooms, plus a den, and 2.5 or three bathrooms. Other fine touches include disappearing cantina doors on to the large lanais, a wide kitchen island, top of the line appliances, designer cabinets and detailed interior finishes. Prices range from $1.3 million to $2.4 million. The first SummerHouse homes will be ready for move in late 2014. The sales center is open Sundays from noon to 4 p.m., or by appointment. For more information, visit summerhouse-carlsbad.com.
Water deliveries throughout California have been seriously impacted by the long drought. The resulting shortfall has forced many agricultural regions to draw excessive amounts of water from groundwater basins, which in dry years can provide up to 46 percent of the state’s total water supply. In response, the Legislature hastily passed three bills in the closing weeks of the 2014 session governing water management policies for groundwater basins. Senate Bills 1168, 1319 and Assembly Bill 1739 have all been forwarded to Governor Brown for his signature. The need to update
the state’s groundwater regulations is readily apparent. Indeed, many groundwater basins have been critically overdrawn for decades, long before the current drought. However, this legislation infringes on private property rights and punishes groundwater users in basins that have had little or no overdraft or already enforce effective management policies. Furthermore, these bills were rushed through with little time for public review. It took nearly ten years to pass the water bond being submitted to voters in November; surely we can take a few more months before enacting permanent and sweeping changes to California’s
groundwater policies. Unlike the water bond, which passed with wide bi-partisan support, this legislation has generated bi-partisan criticism. The agricultural community, an industry directly impacted by these proposals, has been conspicuous in its opposition. Consequently, I have joined legislators from both parties to ask Governor Brown to veto these bills. Given time, legislation can be drafted next session that respects local control and private property rights while avoiding overreaching state interference over this irreplaceable resource. Marie Waldron is the state Assemblymember for District 75.
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Rats or gophers destroying your yard?
BARN OWL NEST BOXES Installed
‘Sick building syndrome’ topic of conference By Aaron Burgin
Goodbye Rodents!
REGION — If you find yourself constantly with the sniffles and sneezes, it might not be the family pet — your home could be making you sick, advocates for environmentally friendly buildings said. Officials with the San Diego Green Building Council gave the phenomena a nickname, “sick building syndrome,” and according to US Environmental Protection Agency Statistics, it contributes to everything from absenteeism at work to headaches, migraines and asthma attacks.
Don’t poison, use nature’s pest control... Attract barn owls to your yard by installing an owl nesting box! A nesting pair consume up to 2,000 gophers, rats and mice per year!
www.barnowlboxes.com
AIR SUPERIORITY 760.445.2023
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SEPT. 19, 2014
“It is a general term to describe the impacts that buildings have on us physiologically and biologically, and those impacts are 100 percent real,” said Ravi Bajaj, the education manager of the San Diego Green Building Council. “There are impacts from how we respond from a productivity standpoint to how we biologically respond to the lack of fresh air in a space, or the amount of toxins increase in a space, or with respect to ventilation, since we breathe out carbon dioxide, without proper ventilation those higher concentrations of CO2 can lead to exhaustion, and in higher concentrations, very extreme health impacts as well.” Advocates of “green” building practices said that sick building syndrome will only be curtailed if builders change the way they build, including increasing access to natural light, using socalled healthy building materials and creating more energy efficient structures. Many of these topics will be discussed Sept. 23 at the Council’s second annual Healthy Buildings and Communities Conference, at San Diego Gas & Electric’s Energy Innovation Center in Kearny Mesa. The eight-hour event will feature two keynote speakers: Dr. Elizabeth Baca from Gov. Jerry Brown’s Office of Planning and Research will discuss the impacts of community and building design on health and well-being. Peter Rumsey from Point Energy Innovations will speak on the passive and “timeless” strategies that can be used to optimize building performance. It will also include breakout sessions on topics such as zero waste, watershed management and green infrastructure, healthy building materials and energy efficiency for existing buildings. Proponents of green building said events like this are crucial, as on average Americans spend 90 percent of their time indoors, much of it in traditional buildings that expose them to higher concentration of pollutants than found outdoors. An infographic created by the Council, which cites statistics from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and other sources, says that green building leads to fewer absences and better performance at work and school, and fewer episodes of asthma, allergies and headaches. San Diego is one of the leaders in the green building movement. Countywide, more than 400 projects — about 48 million square feet of building space — have received the U.S. Green Building Council’s “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design,” or LEED certification. The rating system is considered the stamp of approval for energy efficient and environmentally friendly standards in building con-
struction. San Diego is also home to the nation’s first “Energy Star” certified building, the Ridgehaven project, which is home to the city’s Environmental Services Department. Still, the county lags behind many of the cities that have really taken hold of the green movement, such as San Francisco, Portland, Seattle and New York. “We have roots in the beginning of the green building movement,” Bajaj said. “Where we have room for improvement is spreading from those few isolated projects to general sustainability across the board.” Ergo, the theme of the conference emphasizes communities, Bajaj said, focusing on how builders can spread those green principles from one building to an entire cluster of buildings and ultimately, create communities that are green. In addition to the environmental benefits, builders benefit financially because the green upgrades ultimately lower operating costs, Bajaj said. “We don’t know with certainty when gas, fuel or water costs will rise, but we do know with certainty that they are rising,” Bajaj said. “Sustainability puts you in a place where you reducing those operating costs and saving money.” The conference costs $40 to attend for council members, $50 for non-members and $60 at the door. Members can bring one free guest. To register, visit the website at: usgbc-sd.org/ event-868747
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Pardee Homes reports
Stellar Sales of Luxury Homes at Alta Del Mar SAN DIEGO’S BEST NEW HOME COMMUNITY REGION — Success comes in many forms, from awards to buyer satisfaction, but stellar sales really tells the story, especially in the case of a high-end, luxury new home community like Alta Del Mar by Pardee Homes. With pricing starting at $2.5 million, this unique neighborhood, located in coastal North San Diego’s Del Mar Mesa area, has experienced stellar sales. Pardee Homes has sold 48 estate homes in just 18 months. In addition, 21 of the available 29 custom lots within the community have also been sold. “Traffic and sales have been amazing since we quietly introduced Alta Del Mar to the public in 2013,” said Matt Sauls, regional marketing director for Pardee Homes. “We are proud that the excellence we pursued in developing this community has been matched by resounding buyer response. We are committed to developing this spectacular plateau in a way that preserves the natural topography and sweeping view corridors as we provide our homebuyers with a one-of-a-kind address. The elevated site and picturesque setting are coastal North County’s last, best opportunity for an exceptional lifestyle, with the location being one of the top reasons for our sales success. Buyers have also cited the beautiful floor plan designs and availability of
morning rooms or nooks feature state-of-the art design and appliances. When you purchase a home at Alta Del Mar, you can select the exceptional design elements and features that reflect your lifestyle.” From Wolf gourmet appliance packages to Sub-Zero built-in refrigerators and dual Bosch dishwashers, the choices for the kitchen are extensive, as are those for luxurious bathrooms and master bedroom suites. Each home occupies a generous homesite that provides ample opportunity for private interior and side courtyards as well as generous backyards suitable for pools, gardens and entertaining. Alta Del Mar is served by schools in the Del Mar Award-winning Alta Del Mar Plan 3 by Pardee Homes was the recipient of the SoCal Award for Best Union School District for Architectural Design for a house 4,000 square feet and above. Courtesy photo elementary grades and it is anticipated Carmel Vallarge single-story homes al firm of Bassenian/Lagoni as compelling reasons why of Newport Beach, Alta Del they have purchased a Mar embraces California’s rich architectural heritage home at Alta Del Mar.” In addition to a success- by incorporating elements ful sales rate, Alta Del Mar of Spanish and Monterey has been the recipient of design such as exterior 22 industry awards includ- gated porticos, charming ing “Best Residential Com- interior courtyards, grand munity of the Year” des- entries, outdoor rooms and ignation in three separate classic brick and wood decompetitions—Gold Nugget tailing; authentic wrought Awards, BIA Icon Awards iron detail, stone facades, and SoCal Awards. In ad- vestibules and formal halldition, Alta Del Mar was ways evoke French Country honored with a Gold Award and Tuscan architectural for Residence Two at BALA styling. “Each of the four floor and at the Professional Builder Design Awards and plans offers a haven for ina Gold Award for Residence door and outdoor living,” Three and Silver Award for added Sauls. “Large side Community of the Year at and interior courtyards, expansive family rooms, and The Nationals–2014. The Prestige Collection club rooms are suitable for a of Alta Del Mar is gated en- large art or exercise studio, clave of 4,151 to 6,235-squre game room or home theater, foot Estate Homes on lots and are among the many averaging a half acre, and exciting floor plan features. Custom Home sites up to Sun drenched kitchens with one acre. Pricing is from $1.85 to $2.4 million. Designed by the award-winning architectur-
Hosts may want to consider gluten-free foods at dinner parties When hosting a dinner party, hosts might be asked to provide some gluten-free foods. Gluten is a general name for proteins found in wheat that help foods maintain their shape. But gluten also can be found in cereal grains such as rye and barley as well as a variety of crossbreeds. Gluten is not unhealthy, but many people are gluten-intolerant. When such people, who may suffer from celiac disease, consume gluten, they may be triggering an immune system response that damages their intestines and prevents them from absorbing nutrients they need to stay healthy. Some gluten-intolerant people may be suffer-
ing from a wheat allergy that can produce various reactions to wheat allergens. Party hosts concerned about guests with a gluten intolerance may want to consult those guests about which foods they can and cannot eat. A gluten-free diet typically forbids gluten-intolerant men, women and children from consuming bread, beer, french fries, pasta, salad dressing, soy sauce, and certain soups. However, many food manufacturers have begun to produce gluten-free alternatives to popular foods and beverages, making it easier than ever for dinner party hosts to cater to gluten-intolerant guests.
ley Middle School, Torrey Pines High School or Canyon Crest Academy in the San Dieguito Union High School District will serve older children. Pardee Homes is celebrating its 60th anniversary in the San Diego market this year. Recognized for superior master-planning concepts, quality construction, energy-efficient building practices, responsive customer service and dedication to the educational and civic goals of the communities in which it builds, Pardee Homes was one of the first builders in San Diego to embrace sustainable building practices and continues to build consideration for the planet into every home and community. For more information visit pardeehomes.com. For more information visit altadelmar.com or call (858) 461-0109.
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Getting the most out of farmers markets and seasonal produce (BPT) — Warm weather months bring an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables, and for those who enjoy buying local, farmers markets are popular destinations. Produce choices available at farmers markets are now reaching their peak. So how can you make the most of this seasonal bounty? Chef Daniel Reyes, culinary faculty member at The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire, a campus of Argosy University, believes that it’s important to know the difference between buzzwords common at markets. “If you have questions about how farmers do something, they are more than happy to talk to
you and educate you about sustainable and organic farming,” he says. Reyes explains that while some produce may look unfamiliar, a good market salesperson will provide tips on how to use the items. Farmers markets are not just great places to buy, they’re also great places to learn new culinary techniques and food pairings. Another tip? Shop early — that’s when chefs at are the markets. “Chefs are usually there early in the morning. See what they are buying,” says Reyes. And remember to bring bags to carry your items home — cooler bags are especially Touring your local farmers markets can help you connect with your community and the neighborhood agrihelpful when you’re buying culture. Courtesy photo delicate goods such as lo- share a passion for locally cally made cheeses, eggs or grown food. The markets build a meats. sense of community, according to Reyes, that conA sense of community Farmers markets allow tributes to a stronger local people to gather in a com- economy and smaller envimon place to meet neigh- ronmental footprint. “Get to know your bors and make friends who
purveyors. See where they come from,” Reyes advocates. This sentiment is shared by Chef Elizabeth Thompson, culinary arts faculty member at The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire. Thompson
recommends asking farmers what’s best to buy right now. “They grow whatever they sell, which makes them experts. Ask to put be put on their email list. They may send out information about what is in season and what to do with it,” she adds. Thompson makes it a point to try something new each time she visits a farmers market. “Sample everything! That is how the farmers sell their products, and you will know what you like.” CSA - Community Supported Agriculture In addition to visiting the farmers market, many people are choosing to become CSA shareholders, paying in advance for weekly boxes of produce. CSAs create a direct relationship between farmer and consumer, according to Thompson. CSAs allow busy people to pick up their share boxes at a convenient location, and teach them how to use what’s inside. For those interested in supporting local farmers, CSAs provide a critical influx of cash to farmers during the off-season, helping them to better prepare for the planting season ahead. Whether shopping weekly at the farmers market or picking up a CSA box of fresh produce, buying local allows consumers to taste fruit and vegetables at their peak flavor. From striped heirloom tomatoes to strawberries picked fresh just hours before, farm fresh foods provide a burst of flavor and a connection to the community that cannot be found within a large supermarket.
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These plants can help to Black Whale Lighting shines new light on industry improve indoor air quality Indoor air quality is not often an issue in the warmer months, when many homeowners open their windows to let the fresh air of the great outdoors enter their homes in abundance. But once the temperatures begin to dip and windows start to close, indoor air quality can suffer. Musty air is not only uncomfortable, it’s also unhealthy. Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, can build up inside a home, especially when windows are kept shut for long stretches of time, which is often the case in winter. Indoor plants can counter such stale air, in some cases filtering out VOCs to make the air inside a home more breathable and healthy. The following are a handful of houseplants that can improve indoor air quality. • Aloe: Many of us know aloe for its restorative properties with regard to treating burns and cuts, but aloe also improves indoor air quality by helping to clear a home of the byproducts, including formaldehyde, of chemical-based household cleaners. Aloe loves the sun, so if you hope to keep an aloe plant healthy through the winter, be sure to place the plant in a window that gets lots of sun exposure throughout the day. • Gerber daisy: Like aloe, a gerber daisy needs ample sunlight, and tends to only withstand winters in warmer climates. But homeown-
ers who live in such climates may still keep their windows closed in winter, and those that do can use these colorful, low-maintenance flowers to remove trichloroethylene, a chemical that clothes may be exposed to during the dry cleaning process. • Golden pothos: The golden pothos can survive a winter, but homeowners should be careful not to let the plant dry out, which can happen if they are directly exposed to sunlight. A golden pothos vine will grow quickly, so a hanging basket is a great way to keep one inside a home, where the plant can help fight formaldehyde. • Ficus benjamina: Also known as a weeping fig, the ficus benjamina can be difficult to overwinter. But that does not mean your ficus benjamina, which can filter pollutants such as benzene, formaldehyde and trichloroethylene from a home, won’t make it through the winter. You just need to figure out the right watering and light conditions for the plant. Such conditions can be discussed with a gardening professional. • Warneck dracaena: The warneck dracaena, or dracaena deremensis, fights pollutants created by varnishes and oils. The warneck dracaena is a sturdy houseplant that is difficult to kill, but it still thrives in temperatures that are between 70 F and 80 F.
On Carlsbad Boulevard in North County, two pioneering women named Louise Adams and Lorraine Lane opened shop in downtown Carlsbad selling lighting fixtures, lamps shades and providing lamp repair. They enjoyed much success, but wanted to travel and be closer to family so they decided to sell the store in 1982. Paul Schaeffer took over as the charismatic designer and made his main focus lampshades, repairs and custom lamps. Paul collected, amassed, acquired, stockpiled, and salvaged some of Southern California’s most unusual lamps. During his ownership he also brought the store back to Carlsbad from Oceanside. When current owners Kirsten and Alan Recce passed by an antique store in downtown Carlsbad. With her background in antiques and personal property appraising, Kirsten was intrigued to discover a small area set aside featuring Paul’s unique business of lamps. A small wooden sign with a carved black whale hung over the small repair area. A friendship resulted between Kirsten and Paul, and three months later Kirsten purchased his business. This year, the company is celebrating the milestone achievement of 20 years in business.
The celebrations began earlier in the year having completed their fifth expansion and relocation in Coastal North County. Now located in the En-
Our industry and services are changing daily right now.” Kirsten Recce Owner, Black Whale Lighting
cinitas Towne Center next to Aaron Brothers near the corner of Leucadia Boulevard and El Camino Real
in Encinitas, they are proud to call the new 7,500 square foot showroom home. Settling in, Black Whale Lighting is developing many new features and interactive lighting labs to further educate and stimulate our customers’ passion for lighting technology and design. “Our industry and services are changing daily right now,” said Kirsten, “New technology is coming from everywhere.” Black Whale Lighting has established itself as the largest independent lighting showroom in San Diego County — showcasing the most diverse selection of decorative and technical
lighting for your residential interiors and outdoor living spaces. Contractors and designers alike seek their services and products out, meeting their discriminating taste in commercial spaces, new custom homes and remodels. Black Whale Lighting has created an outstanding team of employees who have vast lighting knowledge and a passion for what they do — serving your every lighting need. In-home consultations with their excellent lighting-certified trained staff are available for those who need additional assistance with larger projects.
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Bird feeding faux pas? Five easy, no-fret fixes Fabulous food, pretty presentation and attention to detail can earn you a reputation as an amazing host among your human guests. But when you serve your feathered friends, are you
committing a feeding faux pas that you fear may prove unforgivable? Birds may be small, but they pack long memories into those little craniums, and they won’t soon forget if you serve the
wrong food, make a bad feeder choice or allow uninvited squirrels in on the action. Certain feeding missteps, however, are fairly easy to fix.
Faux pas No. 1 - Serving junk food. You wouldn’t invite your friends over for a dinner party and serve them a bucket of take-out fried chicken, would you? Well, that’s essentially
Where grandma can have a grand time.
Certain bird feeding missteps can be easy to fix. Courtesy photo
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what you’re doing if you serve birds human food like bread, donuts or cookies, or stock feeders with seed mixes that are made up mostly of cereal, other fillers or low-quality seeds that the birds don’t eat. The fix: Fill feeders with quality options like Wild Birds Unlimited seed blends which are specifically designed for the birds in our region, no-melt dough cakes (suet for warm climates), dried or live mealworms. The seed blends incorporate only the seeds birds really like to consume. Nomelt dough cakes, live and
dried mealworms provide much-needed energy and fat. Serve Wild Birds Unlimited Seed Cylinders for a tidy long-lasting dining solution. Visit our store or website to learn more about othertypes of bird food. Faux pas No. 2 - Failing to offer your guests something to drink. You would not offer a gourmet meal to your guests without the appropriate drinks to go with it, would you? Birds can be quite focused on food, but they need fresh water availTURN TO BIRD FEEDING ON B13
where summer never ends
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All information (including, but not limited to, prices, availability, floor plans, features and amenities) is not guaranteed and remains subject to change or delay without notice. Maps and plans are not to scale and all dimensions are approximate. Please see a Sales Associate for details and visitwww.summerhouse-carlsbad for additional disclaimers. ©July 2014, Zephyr Partners, Inc. All rights reserved.
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BIRD FEEDING
Faux pas No. 5 - Paper plates Would you invest time and money in preparing a gourmet meal only to serve it on paper plates? Of course not! Yet that’s comparable to how birds feel about a single feeder, a dirty feeder or one that doesn’t feature their preferred style of perch. The fix: Offer multiple styles of feeders to appeal to the
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able just the same. The fix: Place a birdbath or a few smaller ones at different heights throughout your garden. Birds need water to drink and bathe in order to keep their feathers in top flight condition. Faux pas No. 3 - Tolerating uninvited guests. Birds aren’t the only ones who love bird food; squirrels are big fans of seeds and no-melt dough as well, and they’re experts at stealing seed from bird feeders. Left unchallenged, squirrels can drain feeders quickly, leaving nothing for the birds. They can also cause damage to feeders and frighten away more timid bird species. Black birds can also be a problem. The fix: You wouldn’t attack a pesky neighbor who showed up uninvited at your backyard barbecue, and you don’t want to harm squirrels either - just dissuade them from bothering bird feeders. One option is to stock your no-melt dough feeders with Hot Pepper No-Melt Dough. Birds can’t taste the heat, but squirrels sure hate it. Also, squirrels do not like Safflower Seed, but birds sure do. Black birds don’t like Safflower Seed either and won’t bother your feeders if you offer it. Faux pas No. 4 - Overlooking the importance of ambiance. You hang streamers and balloons for a birthday party, and light graceful tapers for an intimate dinner
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broadest range of backyard birds. Tube feeders are a great, classic type of feeder that works for many different birds. Our tube feeders have quick clean design to easily open the bottom of the feeder for easy access. An open-tray design feeder makes it easy to serve Bark Butter Bits, treats and other seed. Hummingbird feeders
allow you to serve the nectar that hummingbirds love. Wild Birds Unlimited feeders are made in the U.S.A., many are made with recycled materials and most have a lifetime warranty. Fortunately, it’s easy to develop bird-feeding etiquette. A few simple fixes will convince your feathered friends that your backyard
is the destination of choice for discerning diners this season. Ninety-five percent of products at Wild Birds Unlimited are either made or grown in the U.S. For more information, please visit our store or our website at wbu.com/Carlsbad. Wild Birds Unlimited is at 2624 El Camino Real, Ste. F. Call (760) 720-1906.
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A calm, sunny location makes a great spot to hang bird feeders. Courtesy photo
party. Birds care about ambiance, too. Shrubbery and trees provide birds places to hide from predators. A yard that lacks cover is not an appealing dining destination for birds. The fix: Choose a calm, sunny location for feeders — spots east or south of your house will probably provide the most protection from cold northern winds. Plant shrubs and trees, put up a fence or plant a hedgerow to provide cover. Since you’ll have to refill your feeders on a regular basis, be sure their location is accessible and convenient.
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THREE PETALS. Designed by Herencia Del Rico and Max Magac. The New School of Architecture, San Diego
Finalists chosen for Sukkah Design Competition REGION — Three in- sen as finalists by a panel of spired and imaginative judges for the Sukkot at the Sukkah designs were cho- Ranch Design Competition. The three finalists are: Herencia Del Rico and Max Magac, students of the New School of Architecture in San Diego, Calif.; Yoshi Silverstein, founder and lead designer-educator of Mitsui Design, based in Washington D.C. who previously served as Education Director of Kayam Farm at the Pearlstone Center and as Jewish Environmental Educator at the Teva Learning Center; and Chris and Sasha Verone, a husband and wife architecture team, also based in San Diego. Volunteers will construct the designs on the Ranch at 441 Saxony Road in Encinitas Oct. 5. The winning design will be chosen by people’s choice and awarded $3,600 at the Sukkot at the Ranch Festival Oct. 12. The Sukkah Design Competition invited designers to reimagine the ancient temporary structure known as a Sukkah, which has been built during the Jewish harvest festival of Sukkot since biblical times. A Sukkah is traditionally erected for one week each autumn to commemorate the holiday of Sukkot in celebration and gratitude of the harvest. It is customary, within the temporary walls of the Sukkah, to share meals, entertain, and rejoice. Judges chose the designs from a pool of 17 submissions from California, New York and Washington D.C. The Judges included: Rob Quigley, San Diego architect most known for the New Central Library; Christopher Hawthorne, Los Angeles Times architecture critic; Davidson Norris, New York-based architect and daylighting designer; Mia Lehrer, Los Angeles architect; and Jessica Lee Vences, one of last year’s winning designers from a team at the NewSchool of Architecture + Design. “The selected finalists (mostly) reveal a bias on the part of the jury for Sukkahs…that were physically delicate, visually light and potentially nomadic, whose skins were photonically translucent and that confused the perceived boundaries between inside and out, sky and earth. They were composed of materials that were resolutely of and
in the organic world, all to suggest that the Sukkah is as much a creation of the mind as it is a dwelling on the ground,” said Davidson Norris. This year’s themes are release and renewal and the three dimensional canvas to express these themes is the Sukkah. Each Sukkah is required to adhere to the following guidelines: the structure must be temporary; it must have at least two-and-a-half walls; it must be big enough to contain a table and most of a person’s body; and it must have a roof made of shade-providing organic materials through which a person can see the stars. Three Petals Designed by Herencia Del Rico and Max Magac The New School of Architecture, San Diego From the designers: “Three Petals formally resembles and is homage to the tipi – the temporary shelter used by many of America’s nomadic natives…and is a remembrance of the 40 years Jews existed in their own nomadic state. The festival of Sukkot is a time for spiritual reflection, so the upwardly sloping walls…direct the eyes of the visitor toward the heavens.” From Jessica Lee Vences, judge “The use of three petals is very symbolic because the number three is significant in spirituality. The lightness of the structure contributes to the temporary feeling of the Sukkah. Humbleness of the materials, waterproof cardboard tubes, goes back to the original shelter in using what they had available.” Tension Release Designed by Yoshi Silverstein, Mitsui Designs, Washington D.C. From the designer: “Release is not possible without tension…(this sukkah) is held together by tension. Metaphorically the tension of an impermanent shelter that both shades from the sun and…asks us to physically experience this liminal state of vulnerability. Physically this Sukkah’s structure is held toTURN TO SUKKAH ON B15
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SUKKAH
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gether by tension — hemp cordage pulled taut around a central hub made from a reclaimed bicycle wheel and strung around angled bamboo posts dug into the ground. “ From Rob Quigley, AIA, judge “There is something magical about this space. It gives a quality of depth that provokes thought and makes you want to visit over and over again. The TENSION RELEASE. Designed by Yoshi Silverstein, Mitstructure is contained and sui Designs, Washington D.C. disciplined, yet fluid, organic and free. “ clear, once they get there, the sky.” that ultimately no buildDesigned by Chris and Sasha Verone San Diego, Calif. From Christopher Haw- ing can take the place of community or tradition in thorne, judge From the designers: “Both vulnerable and protecting us or making “The seven sides of this sukkah structure represent protected, delicate and us whole.” the seven days of the week well-built, this proposal and the seven year cycle. stood out for its ability to Once inside the Sukkah, translate the themes of the one’s awareness of the out- competition — most notaside world is diminished. bly the seven-day and sevThe base of the Sukkah en-year cycles of rest — into structure tapers inwards architectural space. A seven-sided Sukkah to harvest one’s thoughts, completely open on one wishes and concerns. The top tapers out- side, it both invites visitors wards to release them to to come inside and makes
Designed by Chris and Sasha Verone San Diego, Calif. Courtesy photos
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Home projects perfect for ‘staycationers’ The “staycation” was a concept many first acquainted themselves with when the economy started to struggle and men and women were forced to tighten their belts. In lieu of trips overseas or family trips to popular tourist destinations, many men and women opted to stay home and save their money. While the idea of a staycation makes practical sense, many found that idling away a week of hardearned vacation at home could grow somewhat boring after a few days. But whether a staycation is a week-long escape from the office or a three-day weekend, homeowners can tackle a few projects around the house to turn their time at home into one marked by productivity instead of boredom. • Add a splash of color. One of the easiest and most effective ways to give a home a new look is to repaint the home’s interior. Such a project can be a small-scale undertaking focusing on one or two rooms in the house or a more ambitious exercise in which more lived-in rooms like a family room and/or kitchen are given an entirely new color scheme. When removing old paint, consider using sanding pads to make the task easier than the days or yore, when paint was often tediously scraped off of walls with a putty knife. Parents on staycation can even involve the whole family in their painting project, allowing youngsters to choose new colors for their rooms and do a little work with the paintbrush as well. • Say farewell to old faucets. Faucets have a unique way of making bathrooms appear dated. But vanity faucets can quickly and easily be replaced so long as the main problem is appearance and not plumbing. Homeowners who suspect potential plumbing problems with sinks should seek a consultation with a professional before replacing vanity faucets. Once the go-ahead has been granted, homeowners can spend a weekend or a day or two during their staycation replacing vanity faucets around the home. Though the project might seem small, it can yield dramatic and aesthetically appealing results. Staycations have grown increasingly popular over the last half decade, as many homeowners are opting to forgo costly vacations in favor of staying home to pad their nest eggs. While it’s important for staycationers to squeeze in some rest and relaxation, it also can be beneficial to tackle a few projects around the house during time away from the office.
Make home projects a family affair ackling home improvement projects T with kids in tow can be chal-
Ladybugs in the garden may be fine. However, ladybugs in the house are not always welcome. Courtesy photo
Some bugs will overwinter in the indoors Winter weather may not be enticing to some people, but many people enjoy the absence of insects when the mercury drops. When temperatures dip, insects that do not have the benefit of body fat need to find different methods to riding out the chilly weather. Like bears and groundhogs, some insects hibernate, while others move to warmer locations for survival. Although insects may be less prevalent outdoors, homeowners often see an increase of insect activity indoors during the winter, when bugs seek out more cozy accommodations. The following are some of the insects homeowners may see more frequently as colder weather arrives.
ware, scientists have observed high numbers of stink bugs found piled six inches deep in some traps. To keep stink bugs out, seal any cracks around the windows and doors with caulk. Patch any tiny holes in the walls and use foam sprays to patch up holes around outdoor electrical outlets.
Ladybugs (Ladybird beetles) Ladybugs, with their vivid redand-black markings, may not cause concern when found in gardens. But when found in large numbers inside of the house, ladybugs should cause concern. They do not pose any health or infestation risks, but they can be pests in large numbers indoors. Many ladybugs will leave the home in the spring when they’re done hibernating. Otherwise, you Stink bugs As the autumn air turns cold, can sweep them outdoors or remove brown marmorated stink bugs move them another way. indoors. According to Mike Raupp, a Box elder bugs professor of entomology at the UniThese insects can enter the versity of Maryland, data points to high numbers of stink bug popula- home through tiny cracks or under tions in 2013. Home invasions may doors. They also can sneak in on be greater than in years past thanks clothing or bags from outside. Box to favorable conditions this summer. elder bugs are largely harmless, as Stink bugs, which are native to they will not eat anything in the areas of China and Japan, have a home or reproduce. But many peosustained presence in North Amer- ple are put off by any black insects ica, having been observed in 41 running around their homes. As with many other insects, states, including Hawaii. In parts of Maryland, West Virginia and Dela- finding the point of entry and seal-
ing it up is the key to keeping them out. Camelback crickets The camelback cricket, also known as the camel cricket or spider cricket, is a strange-looking bug. It has the body of a cricket, but the long, arched legs of a spider. They are brown or striped, but unlike other types of crickets, these insects do not have wings, so they are silent and will not alert you to their presence with the familiar chirping noise. Furthermore, camelback crickets have spectacular jumping abilities. They have poor eyesight and usually jump toward a predator attempting to scare it away. This can make the cricket seem aggressive. It will not harm people, but because they are omnivores, camelback crickets can eat just about anything in your home and also will eat their own. They like dark, warm, damp environments, so removing these conditions can reduce the number of crickets you find indoors. To further prevent indoor insect populations, take preemptive measures in the fall. Spray the exterior of the home with an insecticide and keep mulch or damp leaves away from the perimeter. If insects become troublesome, consult with an exterminator.
What are you keeping in your 21st-century survival kit? Of the 1,272 federal disaster declarations issued in the last decade, more than half were classified as major disasters. These include calamities such as floods, hurricanes and tropical storms, winter storms, and others. “Most major disasters displaced hundreds or thousands of people from home and work, and nearly all involved a temporary or prolonged loss of major services and necessities, including power, communications, and running water,” said Jonathan Bacon, director of marketing at Wilson Electronics, a maker of communications equipment in St. George, Utah. “We began thinking about what has changed in technology and society, and how that would affect what we would want to have in an emergency ‘go-pack’,” Ba-
con said. “A lot of what we would take with us hasn’t changed, but some of what we’d desire today had not been invented 10 years ago. We came up with six items that were either invented or radically improved in the last 10 years. We call it the 21st Century Survival Kit.” 1. Cell phone signal booster: “We’re all extremely dependent on smartphones for voice and data communications. Already widely used by first responders and news crews when initially entering disaster zones, the Sleek 4G, a portable cell phone signal booster from Wilson Electronics, helps to transmit and receive calls and data via cell towers unaffected by a disaster. In a severe situation like Hurricane Sandy where all communications were compromised for several days,
having a cell booster could save precious hours of driving time to find a strong cell signal.” 2. Batteries: Two portable lithium-ion batteries, each with a minimum capacity of 10,000mAh, is enough for one battery to fully charge at least three smartphones or to power a tablet, netbook, or cell booster for several hours. 3. Portable solar panel: “These solar panels weigh only about a pound and are very practical for charging portable batteries and devices,” said Bacon. He recommended a panel capable of producing at least 10 Watts of power and one amp of current. 4. LED headlamp: Also powered by rechargeable batteries, the latest generation of these types of lamps have adjustable brightness to maximize battery life
and can be made bright enough to cast light more than 100 feet. 5. Two-way FRS/GMRS radios: “When even a Wilson booster can’t find a cell signal, these radios provide a communications range up to 30 miles,” said Bacon. 6. Microbial filter straw: This is used for drinking water that may be contaminated with bacteria, organic and waterborne chemicals, and other harmful elements. One filter straw can filter 30 gallons of water. “A lot has happened just in the last 10 years to make keeping in contact and avoiding health risks easier under adverse conditions,” said Bacon. All of these products are readily available, weigh less than five pounds total and take up little room in a backpack.
lenging. But if kids are old enough, moms and dads can enlist their youngsters’ help when working on projects around the house. Not only can adults keep closer tabs on kids’ activities, but involving kids in home projects also lets parents instill important and practical lessons at the same time. When asked to pitch in on home projects, young kids may feel proud they can lend a hand with such a “grown-up” task. • Include children from the start. When beginning a project, parents can make their kids a part of the design and planning process, welcoming the input of younger members of the family, especially if renovations will impact spaces they use directly. Draft a list of supplies and ask questions of the kids regarding what supplies they think will have to go into completing the project. • Shop as a family. Although it may slow you down, take children along to the home improvement store so you can purchase supplies together. Let youngsters help you as you choose materials for the project. This way they can see how the raw materials will turn into the finished renovation. • Emphasize safety. Children should understand that tools serve a distinct purpose and that they are not toys. Identify and explain the dangerous pieces of equipment and instruct children that they should not touch or turn on tools without an adult nearby. Go over the proper ways to handle the tools and explain the purposes of each device. Make sure everyone is wearing safety equipment, including eye protection, gloves and ear protection, while handing the tools. • Demonstrate and then let kids try. Children will not have the skills to perform more intricate tasks, but older kids can hammer some nails, mix paint or even cut wood with supervision. Assign tasks based on the child’s age. For example, a preteen may be able to saw wood, while a kindergartener can hand over nails and tools. Illustrate the correct way to get things done and then have children mirror your actions. • Attempt an easy project first. Painting a room, building a planter box, or another less complicated project can help parents gauge their kids’ abilities. Involving children in home improvement projects can teach then new skills, give them a greater appreciation of the work that goes into maintaining a house, instill a sense of pride in youngsters, and provide a great chance for kids and their parents to spend quality together.
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SEPT. 19, 2014
TRAIL CLEAN UP The city of Carlsbad will celebrate National Public Lands Day with a volunteer trail clean up from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sept. 27 at Hosp Grove off Jefferson Street and Marron Road. Volunteer work will include tree planting in the East Grove. Overflow parking is available at Westfield Carlsbad Mall at the end of Monroe Street. For more information, visit carlsbadca. gov/trails and publiclandsday.org. Courtesy photo
Glamorous camping, or “Glamping” is becoming a growing trend for some campers. Courtesy photo
What happens when camping and glamour collide? (BPT) — You love the great outdoors, you really do but you were somehow gifted with that sweet blood mosquitoes crave. Not only that but your body simply doesn’t do well sleeping on the ground and, let’s be honest, it takes no small amount of lighter fluid and matches for you to warm your hands over an open fire. Travel inspiration website DreamPlanGo suggests you go “glamping” instead. Short for glamorous camping, glamping gives travelers the best of both indoor and outdoor worlds. As in, explore the majesty of Yellowstone, but return to a down bed and gourmet meal at the end of the day. Sound alright? Keep reading. Choosing your glampsite — Unlike traditional camping where pitching a tent and maybe inflating an air mattress are your only accommodation options, glamping offers you much more to choose from. Does a treetop abode with running water and goose-down comforters speak to you? What about a yurt or villa? Regardless of your budget, country preference or sleeping needs, you’re bound to find a glampsite that speaks to you.
No need to pack — You’ll still need to bring clothes, of course, and hiking gear, but no need to do the heavy lifting. Leave the cookware, lanterns, sleeping bags and clumsy tent at home. What you’ll be doing — The beauty of glamping is that you can still enjoy the rush of fly fishing and reinvigorating hikes, you just won’t have to worry about meals or getting a poor night’s sleep. Depending on where you glamp, you may even have access to more activities and excursions than you would camping. Many hosts are extremely knowledgeable and will go to great lengths to ensure you have memorable experiences to write home about.
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LAKE ARROWHEAD OFFERS PLENTY FOR A WEEKEND GETAWAY
A private beach and dock is available to guests at the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa, which uses the private lake with permission of the owners. Fishing and tour boats schedule their activities at guests’ convenience. Photos by Jerry Ondash
hit the road e’louise ondash
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troll around the lobby and hallways of the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa and you’ll find photos on the walls of just about every notable movie star from the 1940s and 1950s that you can think of. They all had one thing in common beyond their celebrity: they appeared in well known films shot in and around Lake Arrowhead. The film titles reach as far back as the 1930s and continue to the present. According to the IMBd website, more than 140 movies were made with the lake and surrounding wooded hills as backdrops. Even some television series like “House M.D.” were filmed in Lake Arrowhead. One locale holds a heap of Hollywood history. It’s the 23,000-square-foot Tudor House complex, built in 1928 by mobster Bugsy Siegel who entertained the film industry’s elite. Originally called Club Arrowhead of the Pines, the complex offered gambling, illegal booze and a brothel, and featured secret tunnels and its own well for making moonshine. Lake Arrowhead was the perfect place for fun and illegal play, explained tour guide and native resident John Richardson, “because Bugsy knew it would take the cops all day to get up here. That gave him plenty of time to hide everything and everybody.” Richardson gave up plenty of stories and gossip as he piloted the resort’s boat around the lake late one afternoon. He pointed out many lakeshore mansions and told of their past and current, rich-and-famous owners: actor Nicholas Cage; comedian Roseanne Barr; radio personality Dr. Laura; author John Grisham; actor John Candy; the Hilton and Doheny families; the owner of Trader
The spacious lobby of the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa is at once contemporary, “Captain” John Richardson pilots a tour boat on Lake Arrowhead where he grew up. warm and welcoming. The resort recently underwent a $12 million renovation and is His high-energy narrations include local gossip and stories of the rich-and-famous open year-round. who reside in the lakefront the mansions, mostly part-time.
Joe’s; Liberace; singer Celine Dion; sportscaster Vince Scully; karate master and actor Jackie Chan; and Van Halen’s lead singer Sammy Hagar. The list goes on, and for most of these owners, their Arrowhead properties are second and third homes. And in case you are in the market, the choice is wide. There is always a bunch for sale, and with the property comes ownership of the lake. But there are people like Richardson whose primary (and only) homes are in Lake Arrowhead. “I grew up here, then left. I’ve been all over the world and I wouldn’t live anywhere else,” he declared, as he pointed out the trees, towers and bridges from which he used to jump – including a tree on a small island in the lake. “Every time I put up my rope swing, the (homeowners) association took it down. After the seventh time, they cut down the tree. See? There’s the stump.” The area’s second industry, of course, is tourism, because visitors know that Lake Arrowhead offers plenty for the perfect weekend getaway. A 90-minute drive puts you in the San Bernardino Mountains and National Forest, and on the aptly named Rim of the World
Highway, an amazing feat of engineering that yields breathtaking views. The welcoming and comfortable Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa makes an ideal base from which to explore the area. Enjoy the Mountain (ETM) offers many ways to do this – via four-wheeled ATVs, side-by-side ATVs or mountain bikes. We chose a two-hour Jeep tour with guide Tiffani Ice (yes, her real name). She took us up, down and around the nearby backcountry to vantage points and places where three eco-zones are visible. Ice also pointed out areas burned by the 2003 fire, which took six lives, 994 homes and 91,000 acres. Once back at the resort, it was time for a massage at the Spa of the Pines, conveniently located in the hotel building, a feature fully appreciated during the winter months. Coming after our Jeep tour, the massage and the quiet were well timed and appreciated. Other hotel amenities and activities are well suited to families and groups: a pool and hot tub, fishing (Richardson will take you out), and a private beach perfect for evening parties. Bin 189, the restaurant just off the lobby, is popular not only
A tree trunk with hundreds of holes is evidence the area above Lake Arrowhead is a favorite habitat of woodpeckers. The birds store nuts in the openings, usually one to a hole.
Signs on Lake Arrowhead’s hilly, rocky and sometimes rutted dirt roads indicate the difficulty of the ride for various all-terrain vehicles, which are not allowed to ride off-road.
with guests but with locals. My husband-the-meat-eater praised the virtues of the vegan Quinoa and Portabella Stack (with shitake mushrooms, pecans and red pepper coulis). The prime rib and the grilled salmon with mango chutney were excellent. Perhaps best of all was the large number of gluten-free choices that were clearly marked on the menu. Breakfast even included gluten-free toast.
For shopping, Lake Arrowhead Village is a three-to-fourminute walk from the resort. It offers some outlet stores, sweet shops, casual restaurants and a farmers market on Fridays. Visit lakearrowheadresort. com for specials and discounts, or call (855) 580-8210. E’Louise Ondash is a freelance writer living in North County. Tell her about your travels at eondash@ coastnewsgroup.com
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Finding balance: creating functional family living spaces (BPT) — Let’s face it — life is busy. And one of the byproducts of a busy life is a cluttered house. With piles of paper coming home from school and toys creating obstacle courses in the family room, parents may wonder how they’ll ever take back control of the house. A few experts share their ideas for doing just that.
Owls in your yard can help keep voles and other pests from snatching your vegetation from below. Courtesy photos
Why you want barn owl buddies Tired of voles gnawing on your fruit trees, gophers snatching your vegetation from below, or rats scuttling up your downspouts? Invite a couple of barn owls over and they’ll gobble up the vermin at a rate of 2,000 a year. The universal party invite they all recognize is a nest box. “Barn owls are incredibly widespread
Using natural predators is more effective than conventional trapping or poisons.”
Tom Stephan, a master falconer, is the owner of Barn Owl Boxes.
Tom Stephan “Molly’s Box” in a yard in Owner, Barn Owl Boxes San Marcos and it’s live-
in America, so when you put up your nest box, you’ll start seeing barn owls take roost in them in short order, and then they’ll start going to work for you,” said Tom Stephan, master falconer, raptor expert, and owner of Barn Owl Boxes in Ramona. “Using natural predators is more effective than conventional trapping or poisons, it’s economical, eco-friendly, and protects local wildlife,” he added. Tom and his team of craftsmen hand make every owl box out of Mahogany plywood panels made from recycled materials. For as little as $350 installed, you can get the party started with a basic owl box. And buying a box is a one-time investment, as they cost nothing to maintain and the owls are very good at keeping their nest boxes clean. If you have more to spend, the Hoo’s Hoo box with installed camera is one of their best sellers. Just connect the camera to your TV or computer and enjoy the best reality show you’ll ever watch. In fact, Tom installed
streamed footage became an Internet phenomenon. Tom’s lifelong passion for birds of prey began in 1962 while doing research for a wild animal report in second grade. This led to much climbing of trees to better observe birds, which led to a career as a tree trimmer (and later a certified arborist.) While bidding a job, he noticed an improperly hung owl box in a potential client’s yard. He offered to install it at the proper height and angle needed to attract owls, and three days later the lady was thrilled to report that a pair of barn owls had begun nesting in it. “This was the first owl nest box I installed.” said Tom. “Now, nearly 25 years later I have over 36,000 under my belt. I’m so grateful that my passionate hobby has led me to such a fulfilling career. I spend my days sharing my enthusiasm and knowledge of nature and its inhabitants with people around the world. This is my definition of success.” Learn more at BarnOwlBoxes.com or call (760) 445-2023.
Making the most of small spaces Lisa Godsey, a registered interior designer for nearly 20 years and an instructor at The Illinois Institute of Art — Chicago, recommends that people start looking at interior spaces in a new way — up. Utilizing a room’s vertical space along the walls takes the heavy lifting off floor space as a catch-all for clutter. “Consolidating objects in some kind of containment, whether with shelves, cubes, wall-hung baskets or other organizational options cleans up visual clutter,” she says. This technique is especially beneficial in small living areas. In these situations, adding vertical modular storage units opens up space for tables and couches, while adding utility and keeping potentially harmful items away from small hands. Family-friendly furniture Marissa Alexander, academic director at The Art Institutes International Minnesota advises families to think toward the future when choosing furniture items. “Durability, easy maintenance and flexibility of the fabric are essential,” she says. Children will grow up quickly so choosing materials that meet the family’s needs now and in the future is highly advisable. Both Alexander and Godsey suggest nylon upholstery and durable, low-sheen furniture finishes, fiber seal textiles and individual lounge chairs sharing an ottoman instead of a loveseat. These combinations offer form, function, and style, as well as the opportunity to fit in alongside new furniture purchases. “Selecting furniture with clean lines, in subdued patterns in a medium value range — not too light or dark — can work in a variety of settings,” Godsey adds. To add pops of color, change the wall paint. Adam B. Nash, LEED certified designer and interior design instructor at The Art Institute of San
Consolidating objects in some kind of containment helps clean up the visual clutter says Lisa Godsey, a registered interior designer. Courtesy photo
Antonio, a branch of The Art Institute of Houston, suggests choosing Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) free products — because they are very eco- and child-friendly. These paints don’t emit any toxic fumes and are completely odorless making it possible to literally paint a bedroom and have the kids sleep in it that same evening. “It also allows for flexibility of changing things around without huge costs, especially when transitioning from a nursery to a preschooler to a preteen, etc.,” shares Nash. Keeping peace in shared spaces It’s hard enough to convince siblings to share a tablet; what happens when they have to share closet space? “Sharing a closet is best accomplished when it is clear who controls which space,” asserts Godsey. She recommends defining areas based on age — for example, placing an older child’s clothing on the top level of a double-hung closet. The area can be accessed via a stepstool — out of a younger sibling’s reach. Another option is to hang two bars extending into the depth of the closet, rather than one utilizing the width of the closet.
“Two bars on each side, in double-hung fashion, gives each child four feet of hanging space,” she says. And it may help to keep the peace when it’s time to choose an outfit. A time and place for individual style While parents show off their acquired style through furniture choices, artwork and decor, children’s style can be a bit more — changeable. Alexander suggests that parents provide children with flexible display systems that show off their creativity in a simple, neat and contained package. “Magnetic paint gives children direct control over what they display, allowing them to change displays whenever they want. A large frame with a plexi shield is a lightweight way to display a variety of flat work like children’s custom artwork.” Creating a functional living space - where parents and children coexist harmoniously — doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By choosing durable but stylish furniture, practical storage solutions, and allowing everyone the chance to express their style in defined places, your home can become a haven for all ages.
Green options for helping to consume less energy Private residences consume lots of energy. The Energy Information Administration says that Americans are increasing their electricity consumption at home, with some homes even using more energy than small businesses. The EIA says that on average a home uses between 936 and 1,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity each month. There is also a heavy reliance on natural gas, one of the primary fuels used to heat homes. On average homes use 100 million BTU for heating and cooking needs per year. Thousands of dollars are spent every year on home heating, cooling and electricity needs, but there are many different ways to conserve energy.
This includes using alternative energy sources that may be better for the planet and more cost-effective for the average homeowner. When considering green energy, many homeowners think of solar panels, which currently account for .01 percent of all electricity used in homes across the United States. However, solar power could provide as much as 10 percent of that electricity by 2025. California leads the nation with the most solar projects to date, but homeowners across the country are considering solar panel additions to their homes. While the initial cost of solar panel installation can be considerable, the panels generally pay for themselves in energy sav-
ings within a few years of installation. Also, some solar power companies now allow homeowners to rent the photovoltaic panels, which can cut down on the cost of installation. Choosing green energy may not involve any effort on the part of the homeowner. In fact, there are many different companies that work in conjunction with traditional energy suppliers so that a portion of the energy supplied to homes comes via an alternative energy source. Homeowners interested in making any other changes for energy savings can sign up to have an energy audit. Conducted through a utility provider or a third-party organization,
energy audits assess many things in the home. Appliances are examined, as are insulation and the types of windows and doors used in the home and an inspector will check the home for drafts. A report is generated, and homeowners are provided recommendations as to how they can improve their home’s energy efficiency. Making such changes may make homeowners eligible for tax breaks or even rebate incentives while reducing the cost of their monthly utility bills. Homeowners hoping to embrace green energy have many options at their disposal. It’s just a matter of researching those options and taking the initiative to make changes.
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San Diego International
Orchid Fair October 4 - 5
Cost: Free with paid admission or Garden membership. Free for AOS members (must show card)
Bring in this ad for $2.00 off admission. Good for October 4-5, 2014 only.
SEPT. 19, 2014
Carlsbad Village to host inaugural autumn harvest fest CARLSBAD — Carve out some quality time with seasonal festivities and family-friendly activities during the Carlsbad Village Association’s inaugural Harvest Fest. Starting at 3 p.m. Oct. 29, guests will be greeted with fall-focused artisan products and entertainment, including themed games, crafts and face painting. The free event will take place near the fountain at State Street and Grand Avenue and adjacent to the State Street Farmers’ Market. Event goers can
browse through products by local artisans and indulge in autumn goods like pies, jams and kettle corn. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Carlsbad will be hosting a variety of games, including bobbing for apples, fall fling corn hole, pumpkin relays and more. A hosted arts station will give kids the chance to create seasonal crafts, as well as get their faces painted. As a special addition to the event, Harvest Fest will offer the opportunity to purchase rare Porcelain Doll Pink Pumpkins. Proceeds
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from each sale will go to breast cancer research through the Pink Pumpkin Patch Foundation. The Harvest Fest will take place from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 29 in an event space adjacent to the State Street Farmers’ Market at the intersection of State Street and Grand Avenue. Attendance is free. For more information and updates about Carlsbad Village and the Carlsbad Village Association’s events, please visit the website at carlsbad-village.com.
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FALL HOME & G ARDEN
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The Assistance League of North Coast needs your clothes It is that time of year again! Clean out the closets, clear the clutter, and fall clean your home. Assistance League of North Coast® Thrift Store is the perfect place for you to donate your used and unwanted household items, tools, clothes and furniture. Located at 1830A Oceanside Blvd. near the soon -to -open Frazier Farms Grocery in Oceanside, ALNC will put your donated items to work helping your community. ALNC Thrift Store will use your clutter and clothes to put new clothes and shoes on local students, purchase new books and equipment for schools, provide uniforms for students in need, and offer safety programs for all 4th grade students in Vista, Carlsbad and Oceanside schools. Assistance League of North Coast® is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the needs, primarily of children, in the community with the goal of providing a positive starting point for academic success. The Thrift Store is run entirely by volunteers and all proceeds go into Operation School Bell which supports programs for students. Once your clutter is cleared and your donations made to ALNC Thrift
The Assistance of North Coast Thrift Store is seeking your used and unwanted household items, clothes and furntinure. Bring your items to to their Oceanside location at 1830A Oceanside Blvd.
For more information Business hours are new tee shirts for summer. Store, take a trip to the ers like yourself. We have many trea- Tuesday through Saturday about how you can help, It is a great place to Thrift Store to purchase “new to you” items for find a new picture to hang, sures to be found among 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Mon- donate or join ALNC, visit our website alnc.org. days 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. your home donated by oth- a lamp for your bedroom or our donations.
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Fun fall fashions for the entire family (BPT) — Fall fashions for the entire family are top of mind as the cooler weather has you thinking about school bus schedules and steaming cups of hot chocolate. This year’s fall styles feature denim for every member of the family, and they all come in some fun colors as well. Check out the latest and get every member of your family decked out for school, work and all the fun activities in between. • Dads - Denim jackets will never go out of style for men, and the Trucker Jacket by DENIZEN from the Levi’s brand gives the dad in your family the option to dress it up for the office with a shirt and tie, or keep it casual with a T-shirt for a fall hike with the family. Men will also love the Straight Fit jean from Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. These laid-back jeans sit slightly below the waist and are relaxed through the seat and thigh making them great for the cooler weather of fall. • Moms - When mom doesn’t want to look like a mom, the Super Soft Essential Stretch Modern Skinny jeans by DENIZEN are the way to go. Pair them with heels and a dress shirt in fun patterns, or relax a bit with ankle boots and a soft sweater - they’re the perfect jean for dressing up
the rebound no doubt benefitted homeowners looking to recoup as much of their home improvement investment at resale as possible, other factors likely contributed as well. Among the upscale projects surveyed, none recouped more of a homeowner’s investment than replacing existing siding with fiber-cement siding. Homeowners who financed such a project recouped 79.3 percent of the project’s cost, placing it just ahead of a garage door replacement, which recouped an average of 75.2 percent of its cost. After years of many home improvement projects recouping little of their initial costs at resale, the tide finally seems to be turning for homeowners. More information about the 2013 Cost vs. Value Report is available at remodeling.hw.net.
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Home improvement projects recouping more at resale In its annual Cost vs. Value Report that compares the cost for 35 popular remodeling projects with the value those projects retain at resale, Remodeling magazine found that the overall average cost-value ratio has improved for the first time in six years. Cost-recouped percentages increased for all 35 projects examined for the 2013 survey, a remarkable turnaround from just a year earlier, when only three of the 35 projects saw an increase in cost-recouped percentage. Replacement projects proved especially beneficial for homeowners, who likely also benefitted from a real estate market that finally started to stabilize after an extended period of economic uncertainty that heavily influenced both buyers and sellers. While an economy on
Denim jackets can give plenty of options for the office or for keeping it casual. Courtesy photos
from day to night. • Boys - When it comes to clothes, boys want to be comfortable so they can keep up with the rest of the gang, while moms want their sons to look good. The new DENIZEN Ollie Cuff jean makes it easy for both to be happy. Available in dark denim colors to hide stains, these pants are the go-to jeans boys can run, jump and play in all day long. Pair them with fun T-shirts and sweatshirts to ward off the cooler temps, as well as fun tennis shoes for comfort while running around. • Girls - Orchid or purple are the colors standing out this season. The Purple Denim Skinnies from Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. will give the girl in your family style she craves. They pair well
SEPT. 19, 2014
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with friends. With these fashions for everyone in the family, everyone will be decked out for fall!
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FALL HOME & G ARDEN
SEPT. 19, 2014
How to inspect your furnace before winter arrives It is almost time to bid adieu to the warm days of summer. Chilly afternoons followed by continually dropping temperatures are on the horizon, and fall is the perfect time to service the home furnace to ensure it is ready to withstand the demands of winter. Furnace maintenance should be done on a regular basis. The best time to do so is in late summer or early fall, when you still have enough time to address any problems before it gets too cold outside. HVAC systems malfunctions are typically caused by one of a handful of common problems. Inspecting certain components can help to guarantee a furnace is in working order when the first cold days arrive. Filter and air intakes After several months of running the air conditioning, the filter on the heating and cooling system may need to be changed. Check
the condition of the filter to see if it is heavily soiled. Furnace filters are relatively inexpensive. Since this thin barrier will be responsible for cleaning the air you breathe, it is important to keep a fresh filter in the unit. A clogged, dirty filter will reduce the efficiency of the HVAC system and may contribute to poor indoor air and allergies. Check the air intakes around the house for obstructions. Do not place furniture directly in front of intakes or venting that delivers air to the home, as this can compromise air flow and force the unit to work harder. Without adequate air flow through the system, the furnace may not turn on. Many systems also have some sort of external vent or exhaust pipe. Check that the area is free of leaves, debris and animal nests. Again, any blockages can impede the efficiency of the unit or cause it to fail.
Thermostat Very often a furnace may not turn over because the thermostat is faulty. Many a homeowner has spent money to have a service person come out to examine the furnace, only to learn they only need a new thermostat or battery in the thermostat. Check the thermostat against a separate thermometer to ensure that it is reading the right temperature in the house. Raise the setting a few degrees to test if the heat kicks on. Fuel Furnaces are powered by various energy sources. Electricity, gas or oil may be involved in the process. If fuel is not being delivered to the furnace, the pilot will not light and warm the air to be blown through the house. Some systems have an emergency shutoff switch that will halt fuel delivery to the unit. It’s easy for these switches to be flipped accidentally
Installing a fresh furnace filter is one way to ensure the furnace runs smoothly through the winter. Courtesy photo
Water wise workshop planned ENCINITAS — As part of its continued efforts to increase awareness of outdoor water use efficiency, Olivenhain Municipal Water District — in partnership with San Dieguito Water District, Santa Fe Irrigation District, San Diego County Water Authority, and Metropolitan Water District of Southern California — is hosting a workshop from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Encinitas Community Center, 1140 Oakcrest Park Drive, Sept. 23. Attendance is free, although reservations are required. For more information or to register for this WaterSmart workshop, visit olivenhain.com/events or call (760) 632-4641. The workshop intends to assist residents in saving money on their water bills while maintaining a healthy landscape. Participants will learn how to design landscapes that are sustainable in San Diego’s climate, including how to make the best use of the region’s limited rainfall, irrigate effi-
ciently and select the best plants for each yard. The instructor will also discuss composting, worm castings, rain harvesting, mulching, soil health, water pressure’s effects on irrigation, and tips and incentives to reduce outdoor water use. “Our customers have done a very good job reducing overall water consumption over the last several years, and in light of current water supply challenges, we need to continue to strive for water-efficient landscapes at our homes and businesses,” stated Christy Guerin, Vice President on OMWD’s board of directors. “The workshops that we offer throughout the year provide customers with the tools and understanding to reduce irrigation runoff and water waste.”
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if a furnace is located in a high-traffic area. Make sure the switch is in the “on” position before reporting a problem. In addition to these steps, you may want to vacuum the vent screens around
the house. This will reduce the amount of dust blown around. Also, if the furnace exhausts into a flue, be sure that the exhaust route is clear so that carbon monoxide does not back up into the home.
Many homeowners are fully capable of inspecting their furnaces to ensure they are ready for winter. If anything seems out of place or malfunctions, consult with an HVAC professional to make repairs.
B24
FALL HOME & G ARDEN
SEPT. 19, 2014
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