www.encinitaschamber.com
Volume 6, Issue 3
Routing slip Share Encinitas First with others in your organization:
INSIDE The monthly Sundowner event hosted by the Chamber in February focused on healthcare professionals in the area PAGE 8
A Sporting Life, a health sports fair, is set for May and will feature world-class athletes like Tony Hawk and many more PAGE 2
New rules for credit cards could cause trouble both for lenders and customers PAGE 7
Local artists unveiled their banners for this year’s Arts Alive celebration in Encinitas
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED P.O. Box 232550 Encinitas, CA 92023
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PAGE 15
March 2010
No insurance? Good health care is still in reach By Lillian Cox ENCINITAS — Among the reasons Encinitas is recognized as a top-tier health care system is the quality and range of services provided to uninsured and underinsured residents through North County Health Services, or NCHS. The nonprofit provides primary medical care for individuals and families at the Encinitas Health Center at 629 Second St. and specialty care at the Encinitas Women’s and Children’s Health Center at 1130 Second St. Services include exams, family planning, OB/GYN, pediatrics, adolescent medicine, adult medicine, vision care, dental care, and mental health and counseling. Referrals are made to specialists if needed. The center also enjoys a positive relationship with Scripps Hospital, Encinitas. In addition, the health centers offer specialty clinics in areas such as attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder, childhood obesity awareness and prevention, podiatry, asthma treatment and management, and immunizations. Put simply, the health
second in a continuing series
ENCINITAS for world-class health care Health care destination...
NORTH COUNTY H E A LT H SERVICES
We have it all. centers serve as a safety net for the community. No one is turned away. One Encinitas resident, a professor at a local college, wanted to share her story for the purpose of this article. However, she asked to remain anonymous because she has a teenager who is distressed and embarrassed by
the financial situation the family suddenly finds themselves in. Recently the professor’s pay and hours were cut. The family’s problems were compounded when her husband was laid off from a local company just before the holidays. She began by describing a visit to her opthamologist’s
office a few weeks ago where she was lectured by a receptionist who told her she was irresponsible not to have health insurance. Afterward, the experience caused her to delay seeing a doctor when she sensed her blood pressure was becoming dangerously high. “I was worried and I
thought I was going to have a stroke,” she said. “I finally realized I couldn’t put it off anymore. It was such a relief when I called the Encinitas Health Center and made an appointment.” The professor explained that the current episode is the first time in her adult life when she has been without health insurance. She added that she was raised in a family where her mother instilled an ethic of taking care of others. In fact, it was through volunteer work with the Interfaith Shelter Network that she learned about NCHS. “The first time I visited the health center I was crying because I’m not used to being on the receiving end of giving,” she said. “I went in and the place was immaculate and nicely decorated, and everyone had a smile on their face. They never made me feel bad that I didn’t have insurance. It was a remarkable experience.” The professor had a similar experience on a subsequent visit. “People don’t want to go to a place that’s perceived as a welfare place, but it’s not like ❚
see Health Care on 17
Bob Haro: originator, designer, entrepreneur Group talks alternatives to bag ban By Lillian Cox ENCINITAS — Bob Haro, 51, parlayed a teenage passion for performing outrageous bicycle tricks into a multimillion dollar industry. Now the creator of BMX freestyling wants to inspire today’s youth to follow their dreams, too. One way he is doing this is by participating in the A Sporting Life event, which is a family health sports fair set for May, with another local legend, Tony Hawk. “I feel there’s a responsibility that comes with the good luck I’ve had over the years,” he said. “I want young people to believe they can do whatever they want to do.You need to believe in yourself and your ideas.” He offers this advice to kids. “Surround yourself with people who hold you up and also believe in you,” he said. “I didn’t, and don’t, hang-out with people who pull me down.” Haro spent his youth in Spring Valley and La Mesa. His parents were cashiers with the Alpha Beta supermarket chain.
“This photo was from my Freestyle Moves handbook I made in 1983,” Bob Haro said. “The vibe at the time was to portray the sport of BMX in a heroic fashion. Riders at this time wore uniforms to look professional when they raced or did demonstrations. We shot this in Carlsbad when there were more fields than business parks.” Courtesy photo
“They were humble, hardworking people,” he said. “They had a Great Depression mentality in that it was more important to get a job than an education.” Haro recalls the skate park boom of the 1970s, acknowledging that he was a stronger
bicyclist than skateboarder. “A turning point came when my friends and I snuck into a skateboard park after hours, threw our bikes over the fence and rode,” he said. When liability concerns caused skate parks to close as fast as they opened, Haro built
portable ramps he used to perform demos at county fairs, shopping centers and schools. He left California for the first time at 19, booking shows in Ohio and the East Coast. Soon demand arose in ❚ see Haro on 19
ENCINITAS — The Environmental Commission held a public meeting on Feb. 3 aimed at updating the local business community on the status of the city’s single-use plastic bag ban ordinance that has yet to go into effect. In a surprising 3-2 vote, City Council voted Sept. 10, 2008, to direct staff to draft an ordinance banning plastic bags. Councilman James Bond joined then-Deputy Mayor Maggie Houlihan and Councilwoman Teresa Barth in supporting a phased-in process to eliminate the use of all point-ofpurchase single-use plastic shopping bags within the city. However, the city was targeted along with several other municipalities by a San Francisco group called “Save the Plastic Bag” in an ❚ see Bag on 16
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ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
Calendar
BARRACUDA GRILL
The next Encinitas Chamber of Commerce
Sundowner will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., March 16 at Vigilucci’s Ristorante & Pizzeria, 534 N. Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas. Expect great food, drinks, raffle prizes, speakers and more.
Tuesday, March 16 March 6 A Big Read: Party Like It’s 1939 event will be held at 1 p.m. March 6 at the Encinitas Library. Visit www.sdcl.org for more information. March 7 A concert by Damaru will be held at 2 p.m. March 7 at the Encinitas Library. Visit www.encinitaslibfriends.org/Events.p hp for details. March 11 A concert by Veronia May will take place at 6 p.m. March 11 at the Encinitas Library. Visit w w w. w w w. e n c i n i t a s concerts.com for details. March 11 The city of Encinitas is updating its general plan, a key document that embodies the city’s future growth and development policy. Workshops have
been scheduled to receive public input and develop a vision for each of Encinitas’ five communities. Attend the Cardiff Workshop from 6 to 8 p.m. March 11 at the Cardiff Elementary School, 1888 Montgomery Ave. March 11-April 26 Spring Pilates Mat Classes for ages 14 through adult will start on March 11 through April 22, from 6 to 7 p.m. and 7:15 to 8:15 p.m. Monday classes will start March 15 through April 26 from 7:15-8:15 p.m. The cost is $70 for residents and $80 for nonresidents. The instructor for the classes is Sandra Schroeder. The classes are held at the Encinitas Community Center, 1140 Oakcrest Park Dr. Encinitas. Call (760) 943-2260 or visit www.EncinitasRecReg. ❚ see Calendar on 16
Tax filing reminders for business owners Businesses should be mindful of a few important tax law changes and extensions for 2009. Bonus depreciation — The 50 percent bonus firstyear depreciation deduction rate is extended for the 2009 tax year. Qualified property or equipment purchases must have been placed into service before Jan. 1, 2010. Section 179 expensing — The $250,000 deduction for depreciable assets such
as manufacturing equipment, office computers, and furniture is extended for the 2009 tax year. Net operating loss carryback — As in 2008, businesses can carry back a net operating loss from 2009 to the previous three, four, or five years, instead of the usual two years. Capital gains tax break — 75 percent of capital gains ❚
see Filing on 16
Land agency celebrates 25 years in business CARLSBAD — BHA, Inc., Land Planning, Civil Engineering and Surveying is celebrating 25 years of service to the San Diego community. During its 25 years in business, BHA has provided services to municipalities, special districts, home builders, developers and individual property owners. BHA, in an effort to give back to the community, has donated its time to Trig-Star, a mathematics competition for high school students in Vista, the Oceanside Museum of Art and the Boys & Girls Club of San
Dieguito, to name a few. BHA has worked on several signature projects throughout the county for both the public and private sector including Vista Business & Research Park, Shadowridge, North County Square, Pacific Coast Business Park, Lexus Escondido, Sunbow, Raceway Basin Assessment District and East Broadway Improvements. BHA’s offices are based at 5115 Avenida Encinas, Suite L in Carlsbad. Visit www.bhaincsd.com for more information.
A ribbon cutting took place at Barracuda Grill in Encinitas in February. Pictured from left are Mario Valdez, chamber ambassador and Union Bank financial services officer; Troy Crowson, bartender and food Server; Suzanne Perez Swanson, chamber ambassador and Business Blossoms Florist; Tom Millard, bartender and food server; Joan Faust, chamber ambassador and assistant manager of San Diego Trust Bank; Caroline Byfield; Mary Purviance, chamber ambassador and manager of San Diego Trust Bank; Marilyn Phenow, public relations development director; Mo Hani, owner and chef; Ansuya Bose, manager; Pat Reinhardt, manager of the Encinitas Visitor Center; Amy Masterson; and Marshall Weinreb, CEO of the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce. Barracuda Grill is a new restaurant serving California French cuisine with a Moroccan flair. The menu offers a fresh healthy choice of wild fish, grass-fed beef, vegetarian style dishes all paired with a wide array of wine at affordable prices. Barracuda is located at 641 S. Coast Highway 101. Call (760) 230-1464 or visit www.barracudagrillrestaurant.com for details. Courtesy photo
Quality, tranquility at full-service dentist
CHAMBER
PROFILE ENCINITAS — Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry of Encinitas specializes in general, family and cosmetic dentistry, and also treats TMJ and TMD disorders and facial pain. “We offer quality dentistry in a relaxed atmosphere, treatment of TMD and headaches,” said Randall S. Ruminson, D.D.S. From caps and root canals to invisible braces and teeth whitening services, rest assured that Dr. Ruminson can meet all of your requirements. “Our goal is to make your dental visit relaxed, educational and enjoyable, treating you as a family member or a friend,” Dr.
Randall S. Ruminson, D.D.S., helps patients with all their dentistry needs to help them have a healthy smile. Courtesy photo
Ruminson said. Some of the services offered at Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry of Encinitas include teeth cleaning, smile enhance-
ments, caps, root canals, fillings and immediate orthodontics. Also, your teeth can get up to seven shades whiter with their teeth whitening services.
Opt for one-hour in office whitening or take-home kits are also available. They offer invisible braces, with clear aligners that gently realign teeth and aren’t visible when worn. Dr. Ruminson joined the chamber to build his business and become more involved in the community. The best part about having a business in Encinitas? Being close to the beach, and the people, Dr. Ruminson said. Dr. Ruminson’s favorite things to do in Encinitas are eat, surf, relax on the beach and walk and ride bikes. Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry of Encinitas is located at 1011 Devonshire Drive, Suite A in Encinitas. They are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and other hours by appointment. For more information, call (760) 436-4123 or visit ruminsondds.com.
Meditation no small matter in paradise
The interior gardens at the Self-Realization Fellowship Temple and Ashram Center are open to visitors Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Courtesy photo
ENCINITAS — Behind the golden turrets that line South Coast Highway beginning at K Street and ending just before Swami’s beach, the Self-Realization Fellowship Temple and Ashram Center is familiar to residents and visitors for offering a tranquil respite from the daily grind of life. What isn’t as visible is the international organization’s long ties to the city, the monks and nuns who ❚ see Paradise on 19
ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
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ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
FROM THE DESK OF THE CEO
859 Second Street Encinitas, CA 92024 Phone: (760) 753-6041 Fax: (760) 753-6270 E-mail: info@encinitaschamber.com
EXECUTIVE BOARD CEO Marshall Weinreb (760) 753-6041 ceo@encinitaschamber.com President Angel Haag Ubuntu Hair Studio Vice President Genevieve Wing Wing Insurance Services Treasurer Melaini A. Peet Union Bank of CA Secretary Suzanne Perez Swanson Business Blossoms Florist
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Vanessa Keller Comerica Bank Maryam Rad Positive Place Montessori School Lynn Banda San Diego UnionTribune Al Delino Al Delino Design Nettie Nelson Nettie’s House Greg Petree North Coast Health Center
VISITOR CENTER Director Pat Reinhardt
Advertising/Production COAST NEWS GROUP 828 North Coast Hwy. 101, Suite C 760-436-9737 E-mail: encinitasfirst@ coastnewsgroup.com SUBMISSIONS To submit articles, photos and press releases for consideration for an upcoming issue, please e-mail: encinitasfirst@yahoo.com ©2009 ENCINITAS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
I am happy to announce that the new Encinitas Chamber of Commerce Web site is “live.” It will take a little time to get the kinks out of it, but it will serve our members well. The results for those members who advertised on the Web site in the past was excellent, so I expect future lead generation to eclipse those numbers. MARSHALL The site is current and WEINREB user-friendly and will continue to grow and improve. Many new and renewing members have asked to be added
and we will soon be creating a medical database, as well as a special bio section for all those wellness practitioners who serve on our Health Care Committee. Call me to get your business listed and promoted better. The initial networking event for the medical community was a rousing success, held at Belmont Senior Living Center. We had 70 of Encinitas’ finest doctors and wellness professionals enjoy an evening of fun and interaction. It was the first of these events and there are four more planned. We are in the process of planning a series of panel discussions to be held at the Encinitas Library for the benefit of our citizens. Each month will feature a different medical disci-
pline, hosted by a panel of four local professionals. Food and drinks will be served, but the audience will be limited to the space in the Library’s Community Room. These events will be free. Look for more details and announcements for dates. There is so much excitement and so many great projects under way that I cannot give details all at once. Please check our Web site, www.encinitaschamber.com, and all the local papers to keep current. As always, I remind you that we need help to keep the momentum going. There is a place for anyone, young or old, who wishes to participate in making this a better city, through a better and more committed chamber.
A tax, borrow Hitting the reset button and spend on health care issue budget By Tom Donohue
By Tom Donohue PRESIDENT AND CEO, U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
It is often said that the budget is a statement of priorities. If that’s the case, the Obama administration’s FY 2011 budget should give the American people reason to worry. The proposals, if enacted, would significantly expand an already swollen deficit, dramatically increase taxes amidst a weak economy, and undermine job creation while the unemployment rate stands at 9.7 percent. Let’s take a look at what this budget means for businesses and families. An immediate cause for concern is the growth of the federal budget deficit. In FY 2010 alone, the White House forecasts a deficit of $1.6 trillion, followed by a shortfall of $1.3 trillion in FY 2011. In fact, at no time over the next 10 years is the deficit projected to fall below $700 billion. These deficits are being driven by unprecedented levels of spending. Federal expenditures in FY 2011 will grow to a record $3.8 trillion and claim more than 25 percent of GDP, a post-World War II record. As a result of government spending beyond its means, the national debt is expected to nearly double — growing from $9.3 trillion in FY 2009 to more than $18 trillion by FY 2020. This is unsustainable — such heavy borrowing by government crowds out the capital available for the private sector, threatens to reignite inflation and higher interest rates, and cedes too much leverage to foreign debt holders. But big spending and even bigger deficits aren’t the only problems with this budget. To pay for its spending, the administration proposes a series of draconian tax increases. Corporations face a tax hike of $468 billion over the next 10 years, which would hamper their ability to create American jobs and compete in the worldwide economy. Upper income households, too, will see their tax bill increase — to the tune of $970 billion over the next 10 years. This will hit small businesses that pay taxes as individuals especially hard. Instead of growing their businesses or hiring workers, entrepreneurs will now have to cut a bigger check to Uncle Sam. In short, this budget is a surefire way to slow economic growth, increase unemployment, and make U.S. companies less competitive around the globe. The U.S. Chamber stands ready to support many of the job-creating proposals outlined in President Obama’s State of the Union Address, including doubling exports in five years, expanding the use of nuclear power and offshore exploration for natural resources, implementing performance-based education reforms, improving worker training, and rebuilding our infrastructure. However, we cannot support a budget that will undermine the nation’s overriding priority — creating jobs. Our elected officials can — and must — do better.
PRESIDENT AND CEO, U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Conventional wisdom was turned on its head when Massachusetts voters elected Scott Brown to the U.S. Senate. In so doing, the Bay State sent a clear message to Washington: It’s time to go back to the drawing board on health reform. Polling conducted after the election determined that a major factor behind Sen.-elect Brown’s victory was dissatisfaction with the way Congress is handling health care. Americans are disgusted with the backroom deals, kickbacks, and special interest exemptions. They want reform that will control the skyrocketing cost of health care and expand access to insurance. Congressional leaders should respond to the wishes of the public by hitting the reset button on health reform. There is still time to produce a bipartisan plan that fixes what’s broken while preserving what works. The employer-based health care system, for instance, provides
more than 170 million Americans with insurance. But new taxes and mandates included in the Senatepassed bill could undermine this system and delay economic recovery. The U.S. Chamber supports responsible health reform that works for businesses and families and believes that Congress must address three challenges: First, steps must be taken to reform the insurance system. It’s time to eliminate preexisting conditions or health status as reasons for denying individuals access to insurance. We must guarantee that any individual or entity will be issued a policy and that these policies will not be revoked. This also means placing reasonable limits on rating differences (the reason some individuals pay more than others) and providing subsidies for those who truly cannot afford coverage. We must also explore ways to keep people from gaming the system. Second, the skyrocketing cost of medical care must be
brought under control by using an all-of-the above strategy. This includes enacting meaningful medical liability reform, adopting health information technology, and permitting small businesses to join together to purchase health insurance. We should emphasize wellness and prevention, but when people get sick, providers should be paid based on the quality of care they offer. Finally, command-andcontrol health care run by Washington should be replaced with a vibrant marketplace. A health care exchange, for example, would allow individuals and businesses anywhere in the country to enroll in any plan they choose. Government should facilitate improved pooling mechanisms, consumer choice, and competition. What has worked for other sectors of our economy can work for health care too. Congress now has what so many Americans are striving for — a second chance to get things right. Let’s hope that they don’t waste it.
The president’s focus on jobs By Tom Donohue PRESIDENT AND CEO U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
In his State of the Union address, President Obama said that “jobs must be our No. 1 focus in 2010.” The U.S. Chamber of Commerce couldn’t agree more. There was much to like in the president’s speech, including an emphasis on trade, energy and education. And on areas where we differ — including financial reform and health care reform — our disagreement isn’t over whether we should act, but how. So let’s see what this speech means for business. One of the most encouraging aspects of the president’s remarks was his stated goal of doubling U.S. exports over the next five years. With 95 percent of the global population living beyond our borders, there are tremendous opportunities to sell
American goods and services overseas. The president’s proposed National Export Initiative would help more small businesses tap into these markets. Increasing the number of energy jobs is another goal shared by the administration and the U.S. Chamber. Notably, the president didn’t just emphasize investment in new technologies and green jobs. He also put expansion of nuclear power and the development of offshore energy resources back on the national agenda. By increasing the number of options he is willing to consider, the president is acknowledging that there is not a one-sizefits-all solution to our energy and environmental challenges. The business community and the White House are also in broad agreement on the need for education reform.
The president has already backed up words with action — the Race to the Top program provides grants to states that take steps to improve student achievement. More work must be done, however, to revive our schools and prepare students for careers in the 21st century economy. It was also heartening to see the president call for tax relief for small businesses and the modernization of our infrastructure. Both of these policies will have a stimulative effect on the economy. To keep Washington’s focus on jobs, let me mention a couple of policies that the president should not pursue. These include the financial reform and health care plans being advanced by the administration’s congressional allies. Although we must ❚
see Jobs on 17
ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
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CHAMPAGNE FRENCH BAKERY CAFÉ DAVID BOYLAN Lick the Plate Marketing
Video a boon to marketers
Video marketing is the new king on the block among marketing channels — not without good reason. Commercials from television have progressed to commercials and ads on the Internet. By now, people have developed a resistance that blinds them automatically to repeat commercials when they recognize that “hey, this is not information I am searching for but an advertisement trying to sell me something I may not need!” Marketing videos, on the other hand, are power packed with product information, visual description, and sometimes instruction on how to use the product. They come in the form of customer reviews, video landing pages, or streaming videos on Web sites.
Power of visual communication More than 90 percent of Internet users prefer watching a video to reading an article. Similarly, statistics show that 6 out of every 10 customers watch streaming videos — that is 60 percent of your customer base. On the Internet the average attention span of a user is measured in seconds. What is the best way to get the attention of someone who intends to just pass on from your Web site? Visual videos with a catchy, attention-grabbing title will do the trick. This is a powerful reason for you to consider introducing a video about your product or business onto your Web site, YouTube, or as a paid for SEO video. You can make the foray into video marketing by making a video for some of the following purposes. SEO video landing pages: Landing pages are all about concentrated content for the purpose of converting an interested customer into a buyer. Having a video on your landing page conveys the message with impact and can drive decisions that lead to a sale. YouTube: Just about everyone has seen a video on YouTube by now. So now that you have watched video on YouTube, how about producing some content to ❚ see Marketing on 19
A ribbon cutting was held in February for Champagne French Bakery Café. Pictured are Mario Valdez, Union Bank financial services officer and chamber ambassdor; Joan Faust, assistant manager of San Diego Trust Bank and chamber ambassdor; Katherine Wichmann Zacharias of KWAC Insurance & Services, chamber ambassdor; Debbie Caligiuri, membership director with Encinitas Chamber of Commerce; Mary Purviance, manager of San Diego Trust Bank, chamber ambassdor; Marshall Weinreb, Encinitas Chamber of Commerce CEO; Dennis Smith of Taylor Place Real Estate, chamber ambassdor; Peggy Cozens of Sea Coast Real Estate; Encinitas City Councilwoman Teresa Barth; Tom Cozens of Sea Coast Real Estate; Norma Garcia, restaurant manager cutting the ribbon with Ana; Christina McMahan, catering manager; Ana Montes, general manager; Sunshine Smith of Taylor Place Real Estate, chamber ambassdor; Suzanne Perez Swanson of Business Blossoms Florist, chamber ambassdor; Chris Kydd, The Coast News Group Advertising Manager; and Marilyn Kovach of Chef Marilyn; chamber ambassdor. Champagne French Bakery Café has served Encinitas traditional French cuisine since 1987. They offer an affordable menu from freshly baked breads and desserts, savory breakfast, lunch and dinners, and they also offer the highest quality catering. They are located in the Rancho Santa Fe Plaza at 162 S. Rancho Santa Fe Road in Encinitas. Call (760) 944-9446 or visit www.champagnebakery.com for details. Photo by Jason Land
Dentist’s goal is to make you smile
CHAMBER
PROFILE ENCINITAS — It’s all about your smile at Encinitas Dental Care, at 2058 El Camino Real, Suite F. Few things can make a person more self-conscious and uncomfortable than dingy, stained or misaligned teeth, but Gary Braunstein, D.D.S., has been finding affordable solutions for 25 years. But he also focuses on the whole patient, offering wisdom tooth removal, dental implants, tooth whitening and general dental care. “Gary has an unmatchable aesthetic eye and offers a onestop dental practice for everyone’s general and cosmetic dental needs,” Office Manager
Kristina Ray said. “He has a real connection to the community and a genuine passion for his craft that is obvious to his patients.” A combination of 30 years as a practicing dentist, along with extensive, advanced training in cosmetic dentistry, enables Braunstein to make his patient's dream smiles a reality. “My goal is to offer patients the smiles of their dreams, which can be life-changing,” Braunstein said. Since 1979, Braunstein has been practicing cosmetic and general dentistry in North County, touching the lives of thousands of patients. Moreover through his commitment to continuing education, years of experience and implementation of innovative Gary Braunstein, D.D.S. Courtesy photo equipment, Braunstein is well to maintain a level of loyalty known for his aesthetic excel- structive dentistry. Braunstein has worked for and quality to his customers, lence in cosmetic and recon-
capped with a guarantee of satisfaction. He chose to establish his practice in Encinitas because he loves the beach atmosphere, the smalltown feel and the sense of community, which he helps sustain through his membership in the Chamber of Commerce. As the practice continues to grow, Braunstein is hosting a grand opening reception from 5 to 8 p.m. March 11 for this new Remodel Cosmetic Dentistry office at 6221 Metropolitan St., Suite 102 in the Bressi Ranch center, off Palomar Airport Road. Visitors can see what their smile could look like with a complimentary cosmetic imaging. Encinitas office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Contact the office by calling (760) 4369691 or visit www.encinitas cosmeticdental.com.
Writing contest celebrates life of historical author ENCINITAS — On Feb. 16, a group gathered at the Encinitas Community Center to place a leaf on the Memory Tree maintained by the Encinitas Senior Foundation. The leaf is in tribute to Wendy Haskett, a well-known and muchloved local history author who passed away Feb. 17, 2006. Those present at the ceremony, some of whom contributed to the memorial leaf, were Deputy Mayor Maggie Houlihan; San Dieguito Heritage Museum members and supporters Dave Oakley, Don From left, Don Terwilliger, Linda McArdle, Deputy Mayor Maggie Houlihan, Gordy Hasett, Terwilliger, Linda McArdle, Craig Haskett and Dave Oakley. Courtesy photo
Shari Fortmueller (museum director); and Wendy’s sons Craig and Gordy Haskett. Houlihan spoke about Wendy’s passion for history and life stories, which she developed into entertaining and informative newspaper articles and books, and the importance of keeping history alive, vital and current. McArdle announced that the San Dieguito Heritage Museum, where Wendy was an enthusiastic and valuable volunteer, is continuing to honor her memory and promote her passions for history and ❚ see Author on 15
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ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
WHITE DRAGON MARTIAL ARTS
Howard ARTIST OF Photographer Kubicki will be the Artist the Month at St.Tropez & Bistro, 947 S. THE MONTH ofBakery Coast Highway 101. His exhibit of a dozen pictures were taken on his trip to Paris in the fall of 2009. A portion of all sales go to Photocharity, which supports a shelter for homeless teenager in the Hillcrest District. Courtesy photo
A ribbon cutting was held in February for White Dragon Martial Arts. Pictured are Marilyn Phenow, public relations development director; Nathan Fisher, founder of White Dragon Martial Arts; sifu George Estrada, chief instructor of White Dragon in Encinitas; Marshall Weinreb, CEO of the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce; Maggie Houlihan, deputy mayor of Encinitas; Marilyn Kovach, of Chef Marilyn, chamber ambassador; Pat Reinhardt, manager of the Visitor Center; John Reinhardt of Reinhardt Insurance; Vanessa Keller, Comerica Bank assistant banking manager and chamber ambassador and the experienced instructors at White Dragon Martial Arts. Established in 1985, White Dragon Martial Arts is one of the oldest and largest martial arts organizations in San Diego County. White Dragon stands apart from other martial arts schools by including one-on-one personal training in all of their memberships at no extra cost. White Dragon is dedicated to improving the lives of its students through the practice of martial arts. Whether it’s traditional kung fu or tai chi, self-defense, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts, White Dragon has the martial arts program that’s right for you. Their new location is at 1323 Encinitas Blvd. next to Henry’s Marketplace. Call (760) 9447272 for details. Courtesy photo
We Want Your News! Magazine makes healthy living easy Encinitas First wants to help you share your business news. Any type of business news you’d like to share, we want to hear. From ribbon cuttings to new hires to change of location, no news is too big or too small for Encinitas First. Whether you’re a member of the Encinitas
Chamber of Commerce or not, Encinitas First is the place to let everyone know what’s going on in local businesses. Please submit your news to encinitasfirst@ yahoo.com. If you are submitting a picture, please include full names of anyone pictured.
The Encinitas Chamber of Commerce, it just works!
Welcome! The Encinitas Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome all new and renewing members.
• Stacy Justin Advertising • Taylors Hair Studio • Walgreens • White Construction, Inc. • Wine Styles of Encinitas
New members
Renewing members
• Encinitas Dental Care • Encinitas Elks Lodge #2243 • Healthy Living Publications • Network Services, Corp. • Rancho Park Pharmacy • Souplantation / Sweet Tomatoes
• 2000, DUDEK • 2000, El Nopalito, Inc. • 2007, E-CERT, Encinitas Community Emergency Response Team • 2009, Flavor Chef • 1999, Leucadia Pizzeria • 2001, The Animal Keeper
A Special THANK YOU to our long-standing members for supporting our Chamber New member plaques supplied by:
CHAMBER
PROFILE ENCINITAS — Keeping people’s consciousness raised about healthy living and having a healthy planet to live on is the focus of Elaine Rosso Gregory and her Healthy Living Publications. The publisher and owner of Natural Awakenings of San Diego, Gregory believes that Encinitas and the North County coastal area is the best place to accomplish that. Based here, her magazine works on an international basis, sharing global and local knowledge to improve the planet. The magazine brings the reader information on healthy food and recipes, a directory of natural products and services and nationwide events of interest to healthconscious individuals. Natural Awakenings is a guide to a healthy, higher quality and more balanced lifestyle. Its mission is to pro-
vide the insights and information for that quest. Each month, it publishes cuttingedge information on complementary/alternative medicine and natural health, nutrition, fitness, personal growth, green living, creative expression and the products and services that support a healthy lifestyle. Upcoming issues will focus on green living in April, women’s wellness in May, men’s wellness in June and natural foods in July. In August, it will celebrate vibrant children, creative expression in September, environment in October, simple living in November and finish out the year with awakening consciousness in December. Every issue offers sections on health briefs, global briefs, inspiration, healthy children, natural pets, fit body, conscious eating, green living, healing ways and wise words. “I am a member of the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce because this is my community and I love it,” she said. “I share my passion through an excellent network
Elaine Rosso Gregory is owner and publisher of Healthy Living Publications, based in Encinitas. Courtesy photo
of people, promoting a healthier way to live for the past 16 years.” With a special connection to the ocean and the beach, Gregory surfs, does stand-up paddle boarding and loves most anything at the beach.
She often puts in a long day getting the magazine to print, sometimes from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m., but office hours are technically 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call her at (760) 436-2343 or visit www.na-sd.com.
Business sales news from around county SAN DIEGO COUNTY — The number of people buying businesses in San Diego County climbed last month by 33 percent compared to the figure for the same month last year, according to information supplied by BizBen.com — businesses for sale in
California. The January 2010 stats show 68 smalland mid-market businesses changed hands in the county, compared to the total of 51 sold in January 2009. Most active were the city of San Diego, which accounted for 37 deals, El Cajon with nine closed
escrows and Spring Valley, recording four sales. “After a year of slow activity because so many people were uncertain about the future of the economy, it appears that more and more buyers and sellers are eager to get engaged in small business
transactions,” said Peter Siegel, MBA, founder and CEO of BizBen.com. He added that “limited access to funds has been a major impediment to sales, but California entrepreneurs are starting to find ❚
see Sales on 19
ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
7
Huntington Learning Center helps students reach their full potential ENCINITAS — The Huntington Learning Center helps student from ages 5 to 17 achieve remarkable improvements in their grades, test scores and selfesteem. With diagnostic testing and personalized learning programs, children get precisely the help they need. The success of their program lies in the one-to-one attention they devote to every child and the expertise of their caring, certified teachers. Their certified, highly trained tutors do more than fill children with knowledge. They teach them how to think, learn and, ultimately, how to succeed on their own. Huntington Learning Center provides tutoring in reading, writing, mathematics, study skills, phonics, vocabulary and SAT/PSAT and ACT test preparation Huntington Learning Center opened in Encinitas on Dec. 18, 2009, by owner and executive director Michael Kary. The company was founded in 1977 and has grown to more than 330 centers nationwide.
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PROFILE Huntington Learning Center’s guiding principal is to help children reach their full potential. They accomplish this by developing custom-tailored educational programs for each student. This ensures that each student has their own specific educational needs addressed. Huntington Learning Center joined the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce because Kary wanted to be part of an organization whose purpose included giving back to the community. “We can provide Encinitas with K-12 and SAT/ACT test preparation tutoring services that have helped hundreds-of-thousands of students reach their full potential,” Kary said. “Additionally, by providing assistance to the local PTA’s and foundations we can have positive impact on the stu-
dents’ school life.” Kary said the best part of having this business in Encinitas is that they can have a positive impact on the lives and futures of students that are their neighbors. “My favorite thing to do in Encinitas is to go Moonlight Beach with my 3-year-girl and 5-year-old boy and play on the playground and then run on the beach,” Kary said. “We are dedicated to providing each student the best education possible,” Kary said. “We accomplish this through personalized attention in all areas including our involvement with their parents and their schools.” Huntington Learning Center is located at 121 N. El Camino Real, Suite C in Encinitas, on the corner of El Camino Real Blvd. and Encinitas Blvd. They are open Monday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Friday from 3 to 7 p.m. and Saturday form 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call (760) 632-7000 or visit http://encinitas.huntington learning.com/ for more information.
New credit card rules take hold By Chris Merida Last May, the president signed into law the Credit Card Responsibility and Disclosure Act, which requires fundamental changes to the lending industry’s card-related practices. The sweeping new law affects interest rates, fees, and disclosure requirements for all personal credit card contracts. The law prevents rate increases in the first year after a card is issued (and at the same time requires promotional rates to last at least six months), prohibits double-cycle billing, and precludes overthe-limit fees in most cases. The law also requires 45days’ notice of any increases
in fees, interest rates, or finance charges, and credit card bills must be mailed to the customer at least three weeks before payment is due. The purported aim of this legislation is to ensure greater transparency and customer awareness regarding credit card contracts. Many of the limitations and requirements may seem reasonable at first blush. However, in practice, there are some undesirable consequences for both consumers and businesses of all sizes. Credit cards are risky loans — they’re unsecured, open-ended lines of credit that offer their holders a great deal of flexibility to
use, and pay back, when they want. Lenders understand the associated risk and price accordingly. If lenders are limited in how they manage risk, they will address it in other ways. As a result, here are a few ways that customers can ❚ see Rules on 11
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fair of Jamaican savory delights.With a desire to find a way EATING usual to help in the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes that hit in January, JamRoc101’s owners Tina and David DaCosta FOR HAITI Haiti reached out to Dr. Carolle Jean-Murat, a native of Haiti. JeanMurat is the founder of the Health Through Communications Foundation, a nonprofit organization, and director of its Angels for Haiti Project. This organization is known throughout San Diego for its direct support to Haiti for over a decade. See www.healththroughcommunications.org.Through a special fundraising campaign, the DaCostas provided a portion of revenues over a three-day campaign, raising more than $500. Pictured above are DaCosta and Jean-Murat. “This donation is truly a blessing of love, as it has helped paid for food and basic necessities as well as purchase the first tents to provide temporary shelters in La Valle de Jacmel, where more than 4,500 families’ homes were destroyed,” Jean-Murat said. “I am grateful for all that can be done to help us to advance our Angels for Haiti nonprofit, including building small, eco-friendly homes for the earthquake victims since the rainy season is fast approaching.” She was eager to add, “JamRoc101 Caribbean Grill has the best curry goat dish I have ever eaten!” Courtesy photo
Art Institute launches after-school program ENCINITAS – Lux Art Institute, San Diego’s first LEED-certified interactive art destination, announced recently that it will launch a new “residency” program in
2010 designed for children. Led by Lux’s highly trained education staff, Kids-in-Residence will be an in-depth, after-school art program offered five times a
year to young artists ages eight to 12. Each multiweek session will correspond to the Lux Artist-in-Residence ❚ see Program on 16
8
ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
Local health care the focus of February Sundowner By Lillian Cox CARDIFF-BY-THE-SEA — The staff of Belmont Village Senior Living showed pride and enthusiasm on their first year anniversary by graciously hosting Encinitas chamber members and local medical professionals at the Sundowner on Feb. 16. Charlie, a dachshund-mix therapy dog, was among the greeters. A savory buffet prepared by chef manager Le Roy Patten served as the centerpiece for the event. The spread was a welcome sight for hungry professionals who trickled in to the reception after leaving their offices for the day.
Magician Joel Ward worked the room with card and sleight of hand tricks that generated surprise and laughter. Chamber CEO Marshall Weinreb welcomed the group with remarks and announcements. “Why are you here tonight?” he said. “We want everyone more involved in an outgrowth of health care.” Weinreb is behind an effort to raise awareness of the city of Encinitas as a toptier health care destination. Bill Hammett, Hammett Health Insurance Services, led a sometimes lively discussion in health care reform with the group.
Dean Sally Foster of MiraCosta College and Deputy Mayor Maggie Houlihan, both of whom received cancer treatment in Encinitas, were in attendance. “This is a personal dream,” Houlihan said. “We have the San Diego Cancer Center and UCSD Radiation Oncology. We have offerings in this city that others lust for.” Dana Withall, development director of the nonprofit North County Health Services, thanked Weinreb and The Coast News publisher Jim Kydd for collaborating on a four-part series
Carolyn Humphreys, ND.
Deputy Mayor Maggie Houlihan.
Dana Withall, development director, North County Health Services.
❚
see Sundowner on 11
Magician Joel Ward entertains Nancy Nguyen, DDS, Delicate Dental Arts; and Jeff Taylor, a hair replacement specialist at Taylors Hair Studio. Photos by Lillian Cox
From left, Christine Wood, MD; Marcela Alva, Reiki Specialist, Energy Works Healing; Kim D. Kelly, ND and MPH.
Liz Schulte, Schulte Insurance Agency and Bill Hammett, Hammett Health Insurance Services.
ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
9
DR. KIM KELLY
The Leucadia
District PRESIDENT’S Wastewater Vice President Donald received the AWARD Omsted Special District Governance certification from the Special District Leadership Foundation at the California Association of Sanitation Agencies Mid-Year Conference in Palm Springs on Jan. 14. To receive this certification, Omsted completed four courses provided by the SDLF Governance Academy and a minimum of 10 hours of continuing education. The Governance Academy focused on special district governance, finance, community leadership and the board’s role in human resources. Each course helped board members learn how to develop a unity of purpose on their board, understand, and work within their role in the district, build a strong, positive operational culture and organize the formal structure of a board. The courses must be completed within five years and are taught by a faculty of directors, managers, attorneys, active consultants and advisors who specialize in special districts and local government. For Omsted, this certificate represents tangible evidence of his professionalism and commitment to continuing education in special districts governance. Leucadia Wastewater District office is located at 1960 La Costa Avenue in Carlsbad. Call (760) 753-0155 or visit www.lwwd.org for more information. Courtesy photo
New name, same great service CARDIFF-BY-THE-SEA — The Cardiff 101 Chamber has officially changed its name to the Cardiff 101 MainStreet. Since December 2005, the Cardiff 101 MainStreet’s general membership endorsed the board's recommendation to pursue California MainStreet Certification. This program was estab-
lished in 1985 as a means to help community organizations enhance the economic, social, cultural and environmental well-being of historic and traditional commercial districts. This approach to commercial district revitalization is ❚ see Name on 17
A ribbon cutting was held in February for Dr. Kim Kelly. Pictured from left are Joan Faust, chamber ambassador and assistant manager of San Diego Trust Bank; Marshall Weinreb, Encinitas Chamber of Commerce CEO; Mary Purviance, chamber ambassador and manager of San Diego Trust Bank; Mario Valdez, chamber ambassador and Union Bank financial services officer; Valerie Tripp and Dr. Kim Kelly; Katherine Wichmann Zacharias of KWAC Insurance & Services, chamber ambassador; Suzanne Perez Swanson of Business Blossoms Florist, chamber ambassador; Sunshine Smith of Taylor Place Real Estate, chamber ambassador. Dr. Kim Kelly is a naturopathic doctor whose specialties are hormone balance (adrenals, sex hormones, thyroid), heavy metal detox, musculoskeletal pain, chronic fatigue (fibromyalgia), Kelly’s modalities are herbal, nutritional, bio-identical hormones, homeopathy, biopuncture for pain and energy blockages, IV nutritional and B12 shots. Call (760) 533-2883 or visit www.naturedockelly.com for details. Valerie Tripp is a holistic health practitioner specializing in pre-natal massage, deep tissue and myofacsial release, and massage for seniors. An Encinitas native, Tripp has been in practice locally since 1986, and founded Body Therapy Arts Clinic in 1998. For more info, e-mail info@bodytherapyarts.com or call (760) 436-8898. Their office is located at 1991 Village Park Way, Ste 203-A, in Encinitas. Courtesy photo
Bank had record growth during 2009 COAST CITIES — San Diego Trust Bank reported positive audited results for the fourth quarter as well as the full year ending Dec. 31, 2009. The bank reported its 21st consecutive quarterly profit with record Q4 earnings up 77 percent from the comparable period of a year ago. Net earnings after-tax totaled $198,000 for the fourth quarter ending Dec. 31, 2009 compared to $112,000 for the same period last year. For the 12 months ending Dec. 31, 2009, the bank reported pre-tax income of $1.02 million compared to
$849,000 last year despite having to absorb more than a four-fold increase in FDIC insurance premiums and a special assessment levied against the entire industry earlier in the year. The bank’s FDIC Insurance premium expense /assessment was $231,000 for the 12 months ending Dec. 31, 2009 compared to just $56,000 in the prior year. Net income after-tax increased more than 21 percent compared to the prior year and totaled $632,000 for the year ended Dec. 31, 2009. This marks the fifth consecutive yearly profit for San Diego Trust
Bank going back to 2005. “We are thrilled to be able to report to our loyal shareholders a meaningful increase in earnings this past year despite operating in the most challenging economic environment since the Great Depression,” said President and CEO Michael Perry. “This past year proved to be one of our strongest to date as individuals and businesses alike recognized the strength and stability of our institution and sought a ‘safe-haven’ amidst all the turmoil in the banking industry. That momentum continues to
build as we head into 2010 and we are excited about the opportunities ahead.” Total assets climbed to a record $152 million, up almost 36 percent from the prior year’s figures of $112 million. Total deposits also reached a new all-time high of $117 million as of Dec. 31, 2009, up 33 percent compared to $88 million a year ago. Core deposits (DDA and money market accounts) represented 84 percent of all deposits as of Dec. 31, 2009. The bank has never ❚
see Bank on 16
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ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
Health sports fair set for May
LEUCADIA WASTEWATER DISTRICT
There was a ribbon cutting for Leucadia Wastewater District in February. Pictured, from left, are Marshall Weinreb, Chamber of Commerce CEO; Judy Hanson, board member; Debbie Caligiuri, Encinitas Chamber of Commerce membership director; Donald Omsted, vice president of Leucadia Wasterwater District; Elaine Sullivan, board member; David Kulchin, board member; Allan Juliussen, president of Leucadia Wastewater District. Leucadia Wastewater District recently celebrated 50 years of service and dedicated its new facility at 1960 La Costa Avenue (and El Camino Real) in Carlsbad. The district provides wastewater collection and recycled water service to communities within Encinitas, La Costa and Leucadia. The district also provides recycled water to the city of Carlsbad for use at the La Costa Resort & Spa golf course. Business hours are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call (760) 753-0155 or visit www.lwwd.org for more information. Courtesy photo
Local firm Nexus designs for your success CARDIFF-BY-THE-SEA — Now more than ever it’s important to get the biggest bang for your marketing buck. If your business image and marketing materials could use a jump start, call Nexus Design. Nexus is a full-service graphic design, advertising and marketing firm located in Cardiff-bythe-Sea. Nexus is a small firm and is headed up by Craig Calsbeek and his wife Nancy Buckley. Their studio was in Santa Monica for many years and they moved down south six years ago with their three children and dog for a quality of life change. They enjoy the “kinder and gentler” lifestyle of North County and work from their studio in Cardiff. Nexus specializes in the design of corporate brand-
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PROFILE ing, brochures, direct mail, print ads, product packaging, signage, trade show displays and Web site design. Anything that helps companies sell product and boost market share in this competitive climate. What sets Nexus apart from other design and advertising firms? One word: experience. The firm has been around for more than 25 years and has worked with large corporations, small start-ups, local retail and service businesses, nonprofits and everything in between. They’ve honed their craft
through years of working in the industry and know how to effectively get their customers message out there. They have a proven track record of great creative strategies and helping businesses grow. “In fact, I received an email just last week from a client and he said something that we’ve been hearing a lot lately,” Nancy Buckley said. “He said it was nice to work with an experienced company that knows what they’re doing, and he thanked us for increasing his sales last year by 27 percent, even in this miserable economy! I love to hear that.” “Many times new companies come to us with nothing more than an idea and a business name,” Craig Calsbeek said. “We work with them from the ground
up in establishing their company branding and identity as well as their marketing plan. We design the logo, stationery package, Web site and printed materials like brochures, ads, flyers and signage. The new company looks professional and has a consistent, polished image.” Nexus Design has recently completed the design and production of the new corporate logo for the Encinitas Chamber. In
conjunction with the new chamber management, Nexus has undertaken the branding assignment with the design of the logo, Web site home page and upcoming printed marketing materials. Nancy Buckley is the new co-chairwoman of the Chamber Communications Committee and will work with a group of member communicators in overseeing the communication and marketing needs of the chamber. Nexus would love the opportunity to work with you on your next marketing, graphic design or advertising project. And ask about the chamber discount. For more information on Nexus Design + Marketing, call (760) 635-3636 or visit www.nexusdesigninc.com.
Emergency team prepared for local disasters
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PROFILE ENCINITAS — A disaster or emergency can occur at any time or any place — no one is immune. To prepare residents for a catastrophic disaster, the Encinitas Fire Department started a CERT program in 2004. This program teaches citizens basic emergency skills, and trains them to respond effectively to disas-
ters as a part of a team. The program was initially created by the Los Angeles Fire Department in 1986, and has been established in various communities nationwide since. The Encinitas Community Emergency Response Team, or CERT, is comprised of citizen volunteers trained to prepare themselves as well as support the local community’s professional emergency responders. Under the direction of the Encinitas Fire Department, Encinitas ❚
of the Encinitas CERT Team members with Encinitas Fire Department instructors see Emergency on 14 Some at Academy training drill 2009. Courtesy photo
ENCINITAS — On May 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce along with AT&T, Scripps Memorial Hospital Encinitas, Clear Channel Broadcasting, 7 UP/RC Bottling Company and The Coast News invite Encinitas youth and families to “get in the game” to celebrate good health, sports and recreation and make a difference for local nonprofits in the community. Join a large list of world-class champion athletes from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday May 23 at Oak Crest Middle School’s Upper Field for the A Sporting Life health sports fair. Join legendary skateboarder Tony Hawk with some of the world’s best action sports athletes as they perform hair-raising tricks and routines on Hawk’s half pipe ramp. “It’s a day celebrating the quality of life for all ages,” said Marshall Weinreb, CEO of the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce. “A day when businesses, parents and youth, can celebrate health, wellness and sports together. We (Encinitas) are the mecca of sports enthusiasts — why not host an event that will benefit nonprofits that make a difference in health, sports and recreation for family — even the health of our pets.” Participate in a fun-filled day and visit and explore 50 booths of exciting sports and health professionals and participate in interactive activities for all ages of the family including basketball free throw contests, climbing walls, volleyball serves, face painting, clowns and more. Meet and greet your favorite local world sports champions from a variety of sports including surfing, biking, soccer, running, skiing and more. Watch the San Diego Sockers as they provide on-hand performances and free instruction on playing your best game. Compete and score in soccer kick challenges and win prizes. Encinitas’ White Dragon Martial Arts will be performing exciting demonstrations in the morning and the afternoon. Join YMCA instructors and staff for lessons and games in a variety of challenging yet fun sports and activities for every age. Local residents can enjoy their favorite food from Brett’s BBQ, Leucadia Pizzeria, El Callejon, Souplantation, and St. Tropez Café and Bistro. Raffles prizes will be announced hourly featuring five Mexican Vacation Packages ($5,000 value) contributed by the Villa Group and many other items from local businesses. Four lucky ❚
see Fair on 17
ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
SEACREST VILLAGE By Carolyn Brooking Marketing Director Seacrest Village Retirement Community
A look at agingrelated issues Sailing into retirement Seniors who are retired and mature adults navigating toward this fascinating rite of passage have probably planned financially for their future. That is admirable — and essential. But to ensure that the baby boom generation doesn’t become the baby bored generation, thought should be given to more than money. What will you do with those 40-plus hours a week (more than 2,000 hours a year!) you once spent at your job? Some people plan to volunteer, learn a foreign language, maybe build a sailboat in their backyard. Studies show, however, that more than half of boomers do not have a plan for life after retirement. Every exit is a new entry Ask yourself what you will do next. For recovering workaholics, the answer may be “Less.” For others, the answer might be an energetic “More!” Before you say goodbye to colleagues, say hello to new hobbies, interests and activities. Do some research, consult a professional, embrace the future and all its possibilities. If you’re contemplating a move to an active retirement community such as Seacrest, consider moving sooner rather than later, so you can enjoy all the amenities and opportunities. Unburdened by work and the daily hassles of cooking and cleaning, our residents pursue vibrant ❚ see Seacrest on 15
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Get hair-healthy at Taylors Hair Studio
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PROFILE ENCINITAS — Taylors Hair Studio specializes in nonsurgical hair replacement. Taylors Hair works for all types of hair loss for both men and women. Whether it’s genetics, alopecia, radiation, surgery, thin hair or bald hair — they can help you. Taylors Hair also has a defense prevention treatment to help you achieve more thickness, strength and volume. Taylors Hair is nothing more than a custom-made
Taylors Hair Studios is located at 1636 N. Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas. Call (760) 681-7090 for a free consultation. Courtesy photo
human hair piece, which already have. Into this skin, feels like a layer of skin human hair is embedded. added to the seven you Not growing hair, but
Pure barbecue goodness slow-cooking in the smoker at Brett’s BBQ in Encinitas. Photo by David Boylan
Authenic slow-smoked barbecue at Brett’s BBQ tic southern barbeque flavor, they have hickory wood shipped in from out of state and all of their DAVID meats are hand-rubbed BOYLAN with a special blend of Lick the Plate spices, then slow-cooked in I love authentic barbe- the smoker for up to 16 cue and Brett’s BBQ is over❚ see Lick on 15 flowing with authenticity, passion and the unbridled enthusiasm of its proprietors Brett Nicholson and Bruce Weisman. Everything about this place makes me happy. Their motto “If It’s Not Smoked, It’s Not Barbeque” should also be a lesson to those who think barbecue is throwing a steak on the grill or those restaurants who offer “barbecue ribs” that are no more than precooked, pre-packaged ribs that they warm up in the oven. A smoker is required for barbecue and Brett’s has two massive units that made me smile. To achieve their authen-
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human hair that looks like it’s growing, which is blended into the hair you already have, if any. Any look with Taylors hair can be achieved, and once the hair is cut, its level of naturalness is astounding. Sound too expensive? The cost is a lot less than you think. Taylors Hair Studio is owned and operated by Jeff and Saundra Taylor. Saundra has been in hair replacement for more than 15 years. Jeff comes with a business administration background. On Dec. 1, 2009, they launched their own hair studio, Taylors Hair Studio, which is located at 1636 N.
Coast Highway 101 in Encinitas. The studio has a private, yet comfortable setting. When you arrive Jeff and Saundra Taylor will greet you with a smile, and their hospitality is incredible. Saundra is seen by appointment only so that your privacy is respected. Taylors Hair Studio is open Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 7 a.m. to noon. Call Saundra for a free consultation at (760) 6817090 or visit www.taylorshairstudio.com for more information.
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ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
Senior community celebrates first year CARDIFF-BY-THE-SEA — Belmont Village Cardiff recognized its first anniversary in January with a festive party and ribbon cutting, but mostly they celebrated the close ties that they have formed with their North County neighbors. Seniors and their families, along with business associates and guests, enjoyed the live entertainment, personal tours of the community, and specially prepared menu items from Josephine’s Kitchen, Belmont’s signature restaurant. “Even though we’ve only been open for one year, we feel Above, Marilyn Keppel and George Roth dance to music as if we have been in Encinitas played by the Mike Pritchard Trio. Photo by Jason Land much longer because of the wonderful friendships we’ve built over the past 12 months,” said Inan Linton, executive director for Belmont Village of Cardiff. “On behalf of my team, I want to thank all of our friends and neighbors for welcoming us so whole-heartedly,” Linton said. “I would also like to say a special thanks to the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce, who spearheaded this official ‘oneyear’ ribbon cutting — we’re so Above, Alida Woodward, Hazel Faul and Dede Fairbanks. grateful for the support and Photo by Jason Land
enthusiasm you have shown.” Over the past year, Belmont Village Cardiff has become a hub of community activity, very often a gathering spot for many civic groups such as the Encinitas Rotary Club, the Solana Beach, Cardiff and Encinitas chambers, and the North County Singles, who hold monthly dances in Belmont’s town hall. The senior living community has also become an important resource for healthcare issues, hosting monthly support groups for Alzheimer's caregivers, Parkinson’s disease, and the Braille Institute. Belmont has been a fundraising site for organizations such as the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life; and they have developed close ties with their immediate neighbors, Mira Costa College, Temple Solel and the Greek Orthodox Church. As a company, Belmont Village Senior Living has also broken new ground by being selected as a designated provider of the NFL Player Care Plan, meaning that they offer special benefits and priorities for NFL retirees, which
Kathy Flores runs the front desk with the help of the Belmont Village’s dog Charly. Photo by Jason Land
they have extended to all alumni and retirees, regardless of playing time, and to their families, and other members of the NFL community. Most recently, in recognition of San Diego’s military heritage, Belmont Village Senior Living has commissioned 25-year-old photographer Thomas Sanders to capture the photos and stories of its residents who are veterans, most of World War II. In the past year, Thomas Sanders has had the opportunity to photograph more than 300 Belmont ❚ see Senior on 18
Clients come first at Magaña Group real estate
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PROFILE ENCINITAS — Magaña Group has been in business in Encinitas since 2004. The real estate company is located at 315 S. Coast Highway 101, Suite W, just above Leucadia Pizzeria on the corner of Encinitas Boulevard and Coast Highway 101. Owned by Realtor Joscelin Magaña and Joe Morris, Magaña Group specializes in helping people buy and sell homes. They emphasize a “client first” approach.
“We take a comprehensive approach, combining the best in class technology and time proven methods to systematically sell homes,” Magaña said. “Our accountability system lets our clients log into a private Web site to see what service activities have been performed to sell their home.” Magaña joined the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce to share ideas with other business people and connect with the community. “I believe that by joining the chamber, my business will grow,” Magaña said. “Our company offers six years of real estate experience, 12 years of business experience
and a strong willingness to help others.” Magaña enjoys doing business in Encinitas because it’s close to home. “I like to live and work in the same town,” Magaña said. “It helps me feel connected to my neighbors.” Magaña enjoys hanging out at the beach with his family, practicing yoga at Bikram Yoga in Leucadia, and practicing jiu jitsu at Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Encinitas. Magaña Group is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Saturday by appointment only. Visit www.maganagroup. com or call (760) 542-9695 to learn more about the Magaña Magaña Group specializes in coastal country real estate and mortgage. Courtesy photo Group.
Family-owned pharmacy meets all your needs
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PROFILE ENCINITAS — Rancho Park Pharmacy is a triplethreat in these times when life can be hectic and you’re running around doing errands. Here you’ll find one place that serves as a retail pharmacy, a gift shop and a post office. Erik Tran has owned Rancho Park Pharmacy since 2005. “We are a small, hometown pharmacy that caters to the individual needs of each patient,” Tran said when asked what makes his business special. Rancho Park Pharmacy
joined the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce to become a part of the Encinitas business community. “We are a pharmacy that cares about the patient and can take care of all their needs,” Tran said. What’s the best part about having a business in Encinitas? “The people are extremely friendly,” Tran said. Tran’s favorite things to do in Encinitas are eat, hang out, shop and go to the beach. “We are family-owned and can provide personalized care to each patient,” Tran said. Rancho Park Pharmacy is located in the Henry’s shopping center at 1331 Encinitas Blvd. They are open Monday
Rancho Park Pharmacy is located in the Henry’s shopping center at 1331 Encinitas Blvd. in Encinitas. Call (760) 436-2011 for more information. Courtesy photo
through Friday from 9 a.m. to a.m. to 4 p.m. They are closed For more information, 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 on Sunday. call (760) 436-2011.
Emergency continued from 13 CERT members are trained to provide damage assessment, victim assistance, shelter management and evacuation guidance. Following a major disaster, first responders who provide fire and medical assistance will not be able to immediately meet all of the demands for their services. The CERT program provides for community self-sufficiency in order to meet urgent life-saving and sustenance needs until emergency personnel arrive. People who participate in CERT training will have a better understanding of potential disaster threats to their home, workplace and community. If a disaster occurs that overwhelms the response capabilities of local emergency services, trained CERT members can apply their training to give critical support to family, neighbors and co-workers until professional help arrives. CERT members receive 24 hours of initial academy training including a final drill (over a two-week period). CERTs can then participate in other regional drills. CERT Academy is currently free, including gear and ID. Emergency preparedness and hazard mitigation can minimize the effects of a disaster and facilitate recovery. With the program, firefighters and citizens are working together to build safer communities; enhancing community spirit and improving the quality of life for people in your family, your workplace and your neighborhood by simply being prepared. You, too, can make a difference by using CERT training to save lives and protect property. The program is open to those who live or work within the city of Encinitas and are at least 18 years of age. Class size is limited to the first 20 students that enroll, and students must complete all classes to be officially recognized as a CERT member. Sign up, make a donation or purchase emergency supplies at EncinitasCERT.org — a local only 501c3.
The Encinitas Chamber of Commerce, it just works!
ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
Seacrest continued from 13 lifestyles, thanks to our on-site fitness center, lectures, trips and more. Even our oldest residents are engaged in lifelong learning; many have developed computer and social networking skills to keep up with family in far-flung locales. Now that’s something to tweet about! You wouldn’t set sail on a voyage without having a destination in mind. The same is true of the voyage of your life. Happy sailing! If you have a question on aging that you would like addressed in this column or confidentially, contact Carolyn at (760) 632-0081 or cbrooking@seacrest village.org. Seacrest Village Retirement Communities provides services to seniors in an environment that promotes community, independence and innovation at its campuses in Encinitas and Rancho Bernardo.
Author continued from 5 writing by holding its fourth annual writing contest for third-graders from the San Dieguito area (Encinitas, Cardiff, Solana Beach, Del Mar, Rancho Santa Fe and Carmel Valley). Interested students are invited to write an original essay of up to three pages on life in the San Dieguito region during days gone by. For the essay, students should collect information from the living memories or written accounts of older generations, describing lives and experiences from an earlier period of local history. An original piece of art should accompany the essay. A panel of writers and teachers will judge the essays and artwork. Entries are due March 25 and winners will be announced on May 1. Cash prizes, trophies and books will be awarded to first, second and third places for the essays, and a separate prize will be awarded for the artwork. More details about the contest are available by contacting the museum at (760) 632-9711, Linda McArdle, contest coordinator at (760) 652-5215, or on the museum Web site www.sdheritage.org/eve nts.htm.
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101 Arts Alive Banners for 2010 unveiled ENCINITAS — In an effort to bring art to the people rather than people to the art, the 101 Artists’ Colony in cooperation with the Downtown Encinitas MainStreet Association is once again presenting the Arts Alive Banners. This year 101 original works of art will be displayed on light poles along Highway. 101 from Leucadia to restaurant row in Cardiffby-the-Sea. The banners were unveiled Feb. 20 at the former Cabo Grill restaurant with great anticipation and fanfare. As the public waited to catch a glimpse of the original pieces of art hidden behind brown butcher paper, artists mingled with family and friends. “I can’t wait to see them all,” said Cheryl Schneider who drove from Escondido. “I absolutely love the fact that the community is so supportive of the arts.” DEMA office manager Dody Tucker said she was excited about this year’s selection of art. “They are an incredible bunch of banners,” she said. “We love to support the arts in downtown. You can drive or walk down the street and see the art.” This year marks a milestone in the project’s 11year history. “Every year it
just gets better and better, said Danny Salzhandler, the project’s “instigator.” Each of the 101 banners is for sale. Those in attendance got an early start at bidding on the banners. Silent bidding started at $150 and a live auction concludes the program in late May. Half of the proceeds go to the artist while the remainder is divided between the 101 Artists Colony, the Downtown Encinitas MainStreet Association and the Leucadia 101 Main Street Association. Several artists pledged their half of the proceeds towards relief for Haiti in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake. John ❚
see Arts Alive on 18 Banners decorate the walls of the Cabo Grill in Leucadia. Photo by Daniel Knighton
Carlsbad residents Mary and Robbie MacGregor pose with their son, Encinitas resident Ryan MacGregor, in front of the banner he created. Photo by Daniel Knighton
Carlsbad residents Mary and Robbie MacGregor spot the banner designed by their son, Ryan. Photo by Daniel Knighton
Walgreens offers convenience, consumer confidence
CHAMBER
PROFILE ENCINITAS — Walgreens of Encinitas, located at 1320 Encinitas Blvd., opened for business on Nov. 20, 2009. The drug store offers ink jet refills, a 24-hour, drive-thru pharmacy and much more. Store manager Kelly Spurlock said Walgreens joined the Encinitas Store Manager Kelly Spurlock, Pharmacy Manager Carol Chamber of Commerce to be Zinke and Walgreens team members. Courtesy photo
Lick continued from 13 hours. To finish it off they add their all-original Brett’s BBQ sauce which they make daily from scratch. Most of the menu is made from scratch onsite at the restaurant. Not a lot of restaurants in this area can make that claim and it speaks again to the passion and dedication these guys have to doing things the right way. OK, on to the menu. I could just skip this and say everything on it is out of this world, and it is, but some details are in order because some of this stuff is really spectacular. All the starters are solid including the barbecue and
Cajun chicken wings, and the onion rings are a real treat. I can’t say I’ve tried the salads as I’m not really in a salad mode when going for barbecue but they are a nice option and the pit master salad sounds great with your choice of meat on mixed greens with smoked gouda, roasted sweet corn, black beans, jicama, tomato and sweet onion served with barbecue sauce and ranch dressing. All the sandwiches are really, really good. The pulled pork, beef brisket, pulled chicken sandwiches are perfect and even better when you pile some cole slaw on top. The Texas rope sausage is topped with sautéed onions, peppers
and jack cheese. Now to the barbecue promised land — Brett’s entrées. One note of interest, all of these dishes are smoked between four and 14 hours. The baby back ribs are the most tender and succulent I’ve had. Barbecue spare ribs are long, meaty pork ribs that are very tasty. The beef ribs are meaty and full of flavor. Beef brisket is one of my favorite barbecue dishes and they do it right. The pulled pork is unreal and the chicken is by far the moistest, most delicious I’ve ever had. If I had to pick my favorites it would be the pulled pork sandwich selfdoctored up with coleslaw and baked beans. Then the
a part of the community. Spurlock enjoys being active in the Encinitas business community. “Community outreach and getting to know the people of Encinitas is the best part of having a business in Encinitas,” Spurlock said. Besides offering a convenient 24-hour pharmacy, customers can also receive their flu or H1N1 shots at Walgreens. As a salute to servicemen, the store also offers a 15 percent military discount on the first and 15th of the month.
“Walgreens brings to Encinitas a brand name that has been around since 1901,” Spurlock said. “Walgreens customers can have their prescription filled in any city in the world with a Walgreens.” Spurlock lists walking downtown Encinitas, dining out at local restaurants and attending classic car nights in the summer as a few of her favorite things to do around town. Walgreens of Encinitas is open 24 hours a day and can be reached at (760) 942-2018.
baby back ribs and the brisket … wait, what am I saying, I can’t pick just three. I would be very happy with everything on this menu. Sides include cole slaw, potato salad, BBQ baked beans, French fries, sweet potato fries, corn pudding and hush puppies. The cole slaw, baked beans and corn pudding are standouts in a stellar field. Put a little beef or pork in your beans and prepare to bow down and praise King Brett. To top it off, Brett’s offers only one dessert and it’s so good there really is no need to offer more. Their homemade, down-home bread pudding served with a delectable whiskey sauce should not be missed. I real-
ly need to remember to make room for it more often. Brett’s has beer and wine and offers catering for your next event. If you are a fan of barbecue, or curious about what real barbecue is all about, please check these guys out as they are passionate about what they do and it shows. Brett’s BBQ is located at 1505 Encinitas Blvd. Call (760) 436-7427 or visit www.brettsbbq.com for more information. David Boylan is the founder of Artichoke Creative, an Encinitas based integrated marketing agency. He can be reached at david@artichoke-creative. com.
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ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
Bag continued from 1 effort to prohibit the enactment of the ordinance. The city received a notice of intent to litigate from Attorney Stephen L. Joseph on Sept. 17, 2009. While keeping an eye on the outcome of similar lawsuits, Jacy Bolden, the city’s Environmental Commission Coordinator, said public outreach efforts are working. “We had a ‘day without a bag’ as well as
Calendar continued from 2 com for details. March 12 An Artist Sketch Jam will be held at 7 p.m. March 12 at Studio 2nd Street. Visit www.studio2ndstreet.com for details. March 12 A lecture on Life in Albania by Alketa Wojik will take place at MiraCosta College’s San Elijo Campus in Room 201 at 1 p.m. March 12. Visit www. miracosta.edu/sanelijo for details. March 13 A concert Musica de los Californios 2 by the Hutchins Consort will take place at 10 a.m. March 13 at the Encinitas Library. Visit www.hutchinsconsort. org for details. March 16 Words Aloud — Open Mic at the Encinitas Library with the San Diego Writers will be held at 5:30 p.m. March 16. Visit www.sandiegowriters.org for details.
several other education events and have been working closely with grocers and other businesses to gather their input on the ordinance,” she said before the meeting. “This is another way to reach out to businesses.” “I was happy to see the number of community members as well as the business community participating,” Barth said. “I think we’ve taken the right approach to educate and partner with our businesses.”
March 17 Lux@Night will take place at 7 p.m. March 17 at the Lux Art Institute. Visit www.luxartinstitute.org for more information.
Representatives from Target, Cardiff Seaside Market, California Grocers Association, American Chemistry Council, Surfrider, Coastkeeper and Solana Center for Recycling joined residents, environmental commission members and city staff to get up to speed on the current legal decisions and discuss what efforts outside of enacting an ordinance can be effective in increasing reusable bags. John Najjar, owner of
www.capella-gloriana.org www.sdheritage.org details. for details.
March 24 A documentary “Water on the Edge” will be shown at 5 p.m. March 24 at the March 18 to March 21 Encinitas Library. Visit “Armando and the Blue www.sdcl.org for details. Tarp School” will be performed at Ocean Knoll March 26 Elementary School from A Water Conservation March 18 to March 21. Visit Expo with the San Dieguito www.theparkdaleplayers.c Water District will begin at om for details. 9:30 a.m. March 26 at the Encinitas Library. Visit March 19 www.sdcl.org for details. An Open Model Artist Sketch Class will be held March 26 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. A lecture on March 19 at the Encinitas Wildflowers of the Lagoon Library. Call (760) 942-8738 with Margaret Fillius will for details. take place at MiraCosta College’s San Elijo Campus March 20 to March 21 at 1 p.m. March 26. Visit The Herb Festival, Plant www.miracosta.edu/sanelj Sale and Tomatomania will io for details. A field hike take place at San Diego will follow at 10 a.m. March Botanic Garden beginning 28 at the Rios Avenue Trail at 9 a.m. March 20 and Head in Solana Beach. Visit March 21. Visit www.sdb- sanelijo.org for details. garden.org for details. March 27 March 21 A Families Make A concert Cappella History Program: Tea Gloriana & Gerrit Greve History will take place will take place at 7 p.m. from 1 to 3 p.m. March 27 March 21 at St. Andrew at the San Dieguito Episcopal Church. Visit Heritage Museum. Visit
Program continued from 7 schedule, which for the remainder of the 2009/2010 season, features abstract painter Iva Gueorguieva, sculptor Robert Lobe and Berlin-based artist Sati Zech whose works encompass elements of painting, sculpture and drawing. The curriculum will allow kids to get up-close and personal with these professional artists by studying their work, engaging in conversation, experimenting with similar techniques and materials and following the artists’ progress in the studio from start to finish. “After the success of our Summer Art Camps, parents expressed tremendous interest in after-school art classes for their children through Lux,” said Lux Director of Education Kara Leen. “Kids-in-Residence is another great way we can provide kids with a creative outlet and high-quality arts instruction that isn’t always available in the school day.”
Claire Ramsay Courtesy photo
Kids-in-Residence Schedule: Robert Lobe April 1 to May 6 on Thursdays, 3 to 5 p.m. Description: Students will work with metals, papier-
Cardiff Seaside Market, said retailers are always interested in ways to decrease packaging. He addressed three main topics at the meeting — providing reusable bags, getting shoppers to use them and using them correctly. “The biggest issue that retailers have is that there are plenty of reusable bags but people aren’t using them,” Najjar said. Elizabeth Taylor, chair of the Environmental Advisory Commission, said the ongo-
mâché and natural materials to create sculptures inspired by nature. Each week of his residency, students will meet with artist Robert Lobe and watch him transform large sheets of metal into sculp-
for
ONGOING Farmer’s Market Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Paul Ecke Central Elementary School. Sundays from 2 to 5 p.m. at Flora Vista Elementary School. Yoga for Seniors Mondays at 2 p.m. at the Encinitas Community and Senior Center. Wednesdays at 3 p.m. at the Cardiff Library, www.silverageyoga.org. Horseshoe Pitching Age 12 and up, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5 p.m. at Oakcrest Park. For more info, call the Cardiff Riviera Horseshoe Club at (760) 436-5166 SAVE THE DATE A 5K Walk For Life & Free Health Fair is set to take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 18 at the Oceanside Pier Amphitheater, 200 North Strand. Call (760) 730-1471 or visit www.walkforlife.us for details.
tures of trees, boulders and branches. Cost for six-week session: $200 nonmembers; $175 members Sati Zech June 10 to July 1 on Thursdays, 3 to 5 p.m. Description: Students will experiment with new surfaces and materials while making mixed-media wall hangings inspired by the vibrant canvases of Lux artist-in-residence Sati Zech. Weekly meetings with Zech during her residency will expose participants to the artist’s unique process which involves tearing, sewing and painting on layers of cloth. Cost for four-week session: $130 nonmembers; $115 members Space is limited to 12 children per session, and registration is on a firstcome, first-served basis. For more information or to reserve your spot for a particular session, call (760) 436-6611 or e-mail education@luxartinstitute.org at least three weeks prior to the desired session’s start date.
ing outreach efforts have yielded positive feedback. “I think we had some great ideas come out of the meeting.” Attendees also discussed the possibility of imposing a fee for singleuse bags. This year, after Washington, D.C., began charging shoppers for single-use bags, the district saw a dramatic increase in the use of reusable bags. “I think charging for bags is definitely a way to encourage people to bring their bags,” Taylor said. “Everyone’s on board with the concept (of using reusable bags),” she said. “But those who bring their bags are effectively subsidizing those who don’t. I think it’s an issue of fairness.” Najjar said he is opposed to authorizing any kind of fee for single-use bags. “I think we can solve this problem without a mandate (for fees),” he said. “We’d like to do as much as possible to educate our customers and help promote remembering to use the bags.”
Larry Seinz, a shopper at Henry’s, said he has several reusable bags but doesn’t always use them. “I get halfway through with shopping and it hits me that I left the bags in the car,” he said. “I guess it’s just not a habit yet, I still have to make myself think about bringing the bags into the store.” Grocers are using signage at their doors to remind shoppers to bring reusable bags and financial incentives to reward those who do. “Get your kids to help you remember,” Barth said, recalling one of the suggestions during the meeting. “Besides the positive impact on the environment, bringing a bag will save you some dough in the long run,” Najjar said. Taylor said the commission is open to suggestions from the community. “If anyone wants to give us their feedback we’d love to hear it.” Contact the Environmental Commission at greeningourcommunity @city ofencinitas.org.
Bank
position is not impaired in any way. continued from 9 The bank’s actual capital held any “brokered” ratios as of Dec. 31, 2009 are summarized as follows: deposits. Gross loans totaled $54.9 million as of Dec. 31, Well-Capitalized 2009, compared to $60.8 Standards Tier 1 Leverage: 5.00 permillion as of the same date in 2008, as demand for cent Tier 1 Risk-Based: 6.00 credit slowed noticeably due to the deteriorating percent Total Risk-Based: 10.00 macro-economic environpercent ment. Asset quality continues to remain very strong with San Diego Trust Bank Tier 1 Leverage: 11.44 just one loan reported as “nonaccrual” as of Dec. 31, percent Tier 1 Risk-Based: 18.87 2009. This particular credit is well-secured and as percent Total Risk-Based: 20.13 such, the bank does not foresee any meaningful percent loss potential. San Diego Trust Bank As of Dec. 31, 2009, the bank’s total risk based cap- did not apply for any taxital of 20.13 percent was payer funded bailout funds among the highest in the under the much maligned nation and more than TARP program. The bank’s twice the amount needed liquidity position has never to be considered “well-cap- been stronger with more italized” by regulatory defi- than $89.4 million in cash nition. The bank has never and securities available for invested in preferred stock sale as of Dec. 31, 2009. For more information, of any entity, including Freddie Mac or Fannie visit sandiegotrust.com or Mae, and as such its capital call (619) 525-1700.
Filing continued from 2 earned from investments in small businesses in 2009 or 2010 can be excluded from taxation if the investment is held for five years. Vehicle sales tax holiday — State sales taxes paid on any new vehicles purchased between Feb. 16, 2009, and Jan. 1, 2010, are fully tax deductible on the first $49,500 in cost. Work opportunity tax credits — Tax credits worth up to $2,400 per hired worker are awarded to business-
es that hire certain unemployed veterans and those under 25 who’ve been out of school for six months or more. COBRA premium assistance credit — If your business laid off workers in 2009 who are now paying into the COBRA program to continue their health care coverage, your business could be in line to receive a rebate from the federal government for the 65 percent of the premium cost not being paid by the individual. However, reimbursements are available for only nine months.
ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
17
CASA DE BANDINI
A ribbon cutting was held in February for Casa de Bandini. Pictured are Mary Purviance, chamber ambassador and manager of San Diego Trust Bank; Joan Faust, chamber ambassador and assistant manager of San Diego Trust Bank; Diane Powers, owner; Francisco Ramirez; Suzanne Perez Swanson of Business Blossoms Florist, chamber ambassador; David Lam, financial advisor with Edward Jones, chamber ambassador. Back row, from left, Pat Reinhardt, manager of the Visitor Center; Katherine Wichmann Zacharias of KWAC Insurance & Services, chamber ambassador; Marilyn Phenow, public relations development director; Gilbert Gastalum, manager; Sally McNeil, guest; Marshall Weinreb, Chamber of Commerce CEO; Debbie Caligiuri, membership director with the Chamber of Commerce; Sunshine and Dennis Smith of Taylor Place Real Estate, chamber ambassadors; and many of the accommodating Casa de Bandini staff. Diane Power’s Casa de Bandini is an authentic Mexican restaurant known for its rich décor, traditional cuisine using the freshest ingredients for past favorites as well as new, innovative dishes. Make sure you try their World Famous Bird Bath Margaritas! They are located in The Forum at 1901 Calle Barcelona in Carlsbad. Call (760) 634-3443 for details. Courtesy photo
Health Care continued from 1 that,” she said. “I just needed to be taken care of and they stepped up to the plate. Even when I get a job that has health insurance I’m coming back.” The Encinitas Health Center is staffed with 19 clinical and clerical employees. Dr. Carolene Madden serves as lead physician. She is board certified in family practice and emergency medicine. Prior to coming to the center, she worked in urgent care and private practice. Her staff serves between 60 and 70 patients a day, working in pods of one provider and two medical assistants. “There is no difference between this office and private practice,” she said. “We have everything a patient needs. They appreciate what the doctor is trying to do.” She added, “I want to retire here.” Madden says the most common conditions for visiting to the clinic are no different than private practice: diabetes, hypertension, infections such as staph, minor surgery, skin biopsy, toenail removal and thyroid problems.
Jobs continued from 4 take action on both fronts, we shouldn’t let the cure be worse than the disease. Policymakers should go back to the drawing board and develop plans that won’t undermine job creation.
Above left, April Thongrivong, 18, is examined by Dr. Carolene Madden at the nonprofit Encinitas Health Center. “A friend told me this was a good place because they were friendly and affordable,” she said. “It’s not like a hospital where they make you stand in line and treat you like a number.” Above right, Ana Celis and Jullien Rodriguez maintain thousands New dad Steve Shehan takes his daughter Rebecca to Dr. of patient files at the Encinitas Health Center at 629 Second Ave. The family practice is operated by the nonprofit North County Health Services. Celis just completed medical assis- Nancy Aldana for a 4-month check up at the Encinitas Women’s and Children’s Health Center at 1130 Second St. tant training at the clinic which will increase her responsibilities and income. Shehan is in the U.S. Army National Guard. “I love it here,” Photo by Lillian Cox he said. “They treat you like a person, not a number.”
Nurse practitioner Colleen Veneri has been at the clinic since 1992. “My goal was to work in a community clinic for two or three years,” she said. “I’m still here. I had a patient today who said, ‘I’ve been to a lot of private doctors but I get the best care here.’” Patients go through a financial screening process on their first visit. They are charged based on a sliding scale. If the patient can’t afford to pay, financial arrangements are made. Many patients who carry insurance report paying a fraction of what they are charged in their private physi-
The president is absolutely right to put his focus squarely on jobs. Now he must back that commitment with commonsense policies. We will support policies, Democrat or Republican, that create jobs and grow the economy. We will oppose those that don’t.
cians’ offices for both the visit and lab tests. Dental services are also provided through a weekly mobile dental clinic. Patients who want to be seen right away can call (760) 736-6767 and ask to be directed to the Oceanside or San Marcos Dental Centers operated by NCHS. Dental services are affordable, and calculated on a sliding scale. In addition, the clinic offers the Family Pact Program, which is similar to Planned Parenthood in Oceanside. Routine pap and breast exams are performed at the health center. Once a month a mobile mammogram visits, bringing refreshments. In addition to English, Spanish and Japanese are spoken at the center. A couple of blocks away the Encinitas Women’s and Children’s Health Center provides comprehensive prena-
Fair continued from 12
Name continued from 9 effective because it is comprehensive and community-driven. Merchants, property owners, and residents become partners and take
action on a wide variety of community issues. Everyone benefits from an increased sense of pride and place, safer and cleaner neighborhood, better products and services, and community-oriented events.
winners will walk away with a Tony Hawk prize package that includes an autographed Birdhouse skateboard deck, a backpack and a collection of Hawk DVDs And then get in the game to slam and rock to exciting
tal, perinatal, postnatal and postpartum education and care. California’s Access for Infants and Mothers Program ensures that all pregnant mothers and their babies have quality health care. Even if patients have health insurance, their co-payment or deductible for maternity services is no more than $500. Patients can be certified for Medi-Cal on site. The WIC program also has offices in the facility where low-income mothers can pick up coupons for formula. A staff of 15 includes midwives and physicians, many of whom are double-board certified. San Diego Perinatonatogy, specializing in high-risk babies, subleases space from the center and works closely with Children’s Hospital. A genetics counselor visits the clinic once a month to consult with patients.
Photo by Lillian Cox
Postpartum classes give mothers who don’t have family in the area the opportunity to make connections. Approximately 30,000 children are served throughout the county by NCHS. NCHS also offers a medical assisting training program at the two health centers in Encinitas, which provides career advancement opportunities for existing employees who want to increase their skills and income. Irma Cota, MPH, has been at the helm of NCHS since 1998. In addition to a masters degree in Public Health from San Diego State, Cota holds certificates in health administration from Johns Hopkins University, the University of California at San Diego and UCLA Johnson & Johnson. Recently she was named a 2009 Finalist for the San Diego Business Journal’s Most Admired CEO Award and a
2010 Honoree by KPBS during Women’s History Month in March. NCHS’s 2010 annual campaign, “Connecting Children to a Healthy Future”, focuses on raising funds to help fund pediatric medical and dental services. A group of 25 community and business leader volunteers are helping to reach the goal of $350,000. For information about donations or volunteer opportunities, contact Dana L. Withall, fund development director at NCHS, at (760) 736-6710 or email Dana.Withall@nchshealth.org. Encinitas Health Center is located at 629 Second Ave. in Encinitas. It is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information about NCHS services, visit nchs-health.org.
music performances provided throughout the day by popular rock bands The New Archaic and Stripes and Lines. Local favorite the Eve Selis Band will end the day with blues, country and rock favorites for all. The fundraiser benefits three local charities Fresh Start Surgical Gifts, Star/Pal and Rancho Coastal Humane
Society. Tickets for the all-day event can be purchased at the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce located at 859 Second Street in Encinitas. Tickets are $10 for adults and youth, and $8 for military and seniors. Children age 5 and under admitted free. Tickets are limited. Off-site parking available at MiraCosta College
with free shuttle to and from the event, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For more information, e-mail info@asportinglife.org or contact event producer David Mirisch at david@ dmirisch.com. Those interested in purchasing a booth for the day can e-mail angel@primecoeducation.com or call the chamber office at (760) 753-6270.
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ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
Arts Alive continued from 15 Moseley’s banner, “Looking to the Future” depicts a young Haitian girl in a barren landscape. While Lesa Nield’s “Fiction Fish” and Salzhandler’s “Mirth in the Balance” don’t have a Haitian theme, both artists are also donating their portion of the proceeds to a nonprofit organization working in Haiti. Other artists took the opportunity to showcase some of the city’s local gems. Downtown Encinitas MainStreet Association Executive Director Dody Tucker’s “Retro Audrey” depicts a Encinitas residents Dan Moriarty and Wil Jobson perform. woman with 1950s appeal standing in front of the downtown store Flashbacks. Lou’s Records, Cardiff Reef, Self-Realization Fellowship, Moonlight Beach and Swami’s were also popular subjects on several banners. “All of this great art just really shows you what a unique town this is and what a special place it is,” Deputy Mayor Maggie Houlihan said as she put in a few bids. “I can’t get carried away,” she laughed.
ARTIST IN BUSINESS Photo by Daniel Knighton
Carolina Van Leeuwen is the Visitor Center’s first Artist in Business artist. The program is a partnership between the city of Encinitas’ Commission of the Arts and the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce. Van Leeuwen is a digital watercolorist and will be featured for six weeks at the chamber beginning March 1. There will be an artist reception held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 10 at the chamber. For more details on the Artist in Business Program, visit www.encinitaschamber.com. Pictured are samples of Van Leeuwen’s work.
Cardiff resident George Cobb tries to decide which banner to bid on. Photo by Daniel Knighton
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Frances Chesivoir, Sheryl Chesivoir, Dan Ches, Norma Horn, Ginger Cotton, Sid Shapira and Bill Horn. Photo by Jason Land
Senior continued from 14 Village residents nationwide. As a result of this partnership, Welcome Books will be publishing a collection of the images and stories, helping Sanders to realize his goal of preserving the remarkable, every day experiences of these men and women who changed our world. The permanent photographic exhibition of Cardiff residents, called “American Heroes: Portraits of Service,” will be unveiled at an opening reception at Belmont Village Cardiff by the Sea, 3535 Manchester Ave., Saturday, March 20 from 2 to 4 p.m. The public is invited to attend, but RSVPs are requested at (760) 436-8900. “Belmont Village was founded on the ideal of being a ‘community within a com-
munity,’” said Patricia Will, founder and CEO of Belmont Village Senior Living. “I’m very proud of the way that our Cardiff team has embraced that philosophy and carried it forward.” The Belmont Village concept was developed with the guidance of leading university experts in the fields of gerontology, dementia, architecture, hospitality and dining and with the input of residents and families. BelmontVillage offers Independent, Assisted Living, and Alzheimer’s care, along with specialized memory enrichment programs for mild cognitive impairment. The rate structure is a monthly lease, with no buy-in required. The many amenities, include a salon, library, casual and restaurant-style dining, technology features such as e-mail, Internet and Wi-Fi access, an on-site fitness
center with wellness and therapy services, heated swimming pool, theater, private club room with wine lockers, and concierge services. Belmont Village communities are renowned across the senior care industry for their distinctive design, high standards for life safety, and reputation for quality, and for serving individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss through proprietary Person-Centered Living™ and Circle of Friends™ programs. For more information about the special benefits available to NFL players and families, call the NFL Ambassador at (877) NFL0009. For information about Belmont Village Senior Living at Cardiff by the Sea, call (760) 436-8900 or visit cardiffbythe sea.belmont village.com.
ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
Sales continued from 6 other ways to succeed in selling and buying businesses.” Siegel said increased seller financing, selling portions of a business and having the buyer assume seller debts are some of the strategies used to help fund transactions, when little or no assistance is coming from lending institutions. The county’s performance paralleled California small business sales for the month, which increased 24 percent from the same 2009 period. Sales statistics for San Diego County, by city, are (see the BizBen.com San Diego County Sales Statistics page) : Carlsbad: 3, Chula Vista: 1, Del Mar: 1, El Cajon: 9, Encinitas: 1, Escondido: 1, La Jolla: 3, La Mesa: 1, Lakeside: 1, Oceanside: 1, San Diego: 37, San Marcos: 3, San Ysidro: 1, Spring Valley: 4, Vista: 1 BizBen.com also reported there are about 700 opportunities for buying businesses in the county. Information on San Diego County listings is available at the BizBen.com San Diego County Listings pages. BizBen.com has been tracking sales statistics for businesses in California for 12 years, and since 1994, has been the state’s leading clearinghouse for small and mid-market offerings for people buying businesses. More than 200 new listings are added daily to the 7,000+ opportunities featured at the site. BizBen.com also provides a number of “how to” articles, relevant news items, practical tips and other resources with valuable information, ideas and opportunities for small business owners/sellers, business buyers and the professionals serving this market. January 2010 sales results by California county are: Alameda: 58, Butte: 8, Contra Costa: 27, El Dorado: 9, Fresno: 40, Glenn: 1, Humboldt: 1, Imperial: 4, Inyo: 1, Kern: 20, Kings: 1, Los Angeles: 292, Madera: 1, Marin: 11, Mendocino: 2, Merced: 8, Monterey: 15, Napa: 9, Nevada: 5, Orange: 96, Placer: 14, Riverside: 25, Sacramento: 27, San Bernardino: 38, San Diego: 68, San Francisco: 34, San Joaquin: 30, San Luis Obispo: 15, San Mateo: 17, Santa Barbara: 12, Santa Clara: 83, Santa Cruz: 11, Shasta: 4, Solano: 9, Sonoma: 11, Stanislaus: 24, Sutter: 3, Tehama: 1, Tulare: 14, Tuolumne: 3, Ventura: 16, Yolo: 6.
Haro continued from 1 Europe, New Zealand and Australia. Sponsors only paid expenses in those days, so to survive Haro began handcrafting number plates for BMX racing in his parent’s home. He sold them for $8 to $10. “I got a P.O. Box and started receiving envelopes with checks,” he said. “I was 20 and made more than $1 million.” About the same time Haro accepted a job offer at BMX Action magazine as a junior designer. He also gar-
Marketing continued from 5 promote your business on it? Streaming videos: Having an introductory video or a product demonstration video right on your Web site alongside your articles or promos is a great way to gain attention of those who would otherwise pass through without bothering to read through your written content. You can let your indepth article complement your 15-sec say-it-all video. Make sure your web hosting service provider offers streaming video hosting service so most of your prospects can view the video regardless of their Internet connection speed. Using streaming video service, your prospects do not have to download the entire video before being able to watch your video content. How to get started: Although the homemade
Paradise continued from 2 live and prosper among other residents and the large local following of its founder, Paramahansa Yogananda. Yogananda, a Hindu monk from India, founded the Self-Realization Fellowship in 1920 in an effort to share the value of meditation and Kriya yoga — a scientific approach to quieting the body and mind in order to experience inner peace and God’s presence. The international headquarters opened five years later in Los Angeles and has grown to include more than 600 temples, meditation centers and retreats in 60 countries. After coming to Encinitas in 1937, Yogananda was taken by the vast beauty where the temple now sits. He wrote “Autobiography of a Yogi,” while living there. He died in 1952, after a lifetime of writing about the links between Christianity and yoga. The swami’s image — serene, soft brown eyes framed by black flowing hair — can be seen throughout the retreat center of the fellowship and the bookstore next door on South
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nered notoriety as a cartoonist. “The spelling was bad,” he said. “It was dude speak.” Publisher Bob Osborn required his staff listen to the Power of Positive Thinking tapes of Norman Vincent Peale. It was Osborn who suggested to Haro that he change the name of his business from Factory Plates to simply Haro. “Then I was invited to be in a little film called ‘E.T.,’” Haro said. He can be seen in a favorite scene whisking E.T. away on a bicycle with other “kids” on Halloween to a forest to “call home.”
In 1986, Haro expanded his business from accessories to include bicycles. He incorporated HaroBikes and in 1987 merged with West Coast Cycle, a national distributor of city and road bikes. “It catapulted my brand but the innocence of HaroBikes was gone,” he said. “At the end of the contract in 1992, I pulled out. It was very emotional to have my name on a product but not own it. I’ve never been through a divorce, but it was like a divorce.” A noncompete clause prevented Haro from working in the bicycling industry.
Eventually he was able to reemerge as a designer with Thor motorcycles in Great Britain. A few years later Nike recruited him to design apparel for the U.S. BMX team at the 2008 Olympics in China. Today Haro operates two businesses from his Cardiff office: Harodesign, a fullservice advertising firm, and Axio, a line of custom bags and luggage for clients that include Kawasaki, TaylorMade and Ducati. He has come a long way from the days he crafted number plates in his parents’
home. Today his dad affectionately refers to him as “My son, the tycoon.” A local resident since the 1980s, Haro looks forward to raising his own 2-year-old daughter in Encinitas. “Our town has many qualities I’ve enjoyed over the years although maybe some of the innocence has gone,” he said. “It is still an inspirational and enterprising area, as many of my out-of-state friends have noticed. The environment, the people, the mindset and the attitude that you can try, do and be anything you can imagine.”
look has its place, video that is well-shot and edited is still the way to go. Freelance cameramen and editors abound and some provide the combo package such as local filmmaker John Grimshaw of Admanium Films, who I utilized recently for the video promoting the Sequoia Solar truck. I sat down with John recently and asked him to provide some advice to small business owners who are looking to utilize video. LTP: OK, so I own a local business, let’s say a restaurant, what are the first steps I take to incorporate video into my marketing efforts? JG: It’s an opportunity to tell a story, which is what every video should do. So, what’s your story? What makes your business interesting, unique, different? What’s your background? Did you learn about food in Paris, Milan, New York? Do you have a signature dish? Every business, I am con-
vinced, has something unique that can be part of the narrative of the spot. A good creative producer will find that nugget and incorporate it into the spot. Approach it more like a little film than just another commercial. Everybody these days wants a “viral” video, one that gets passed on to millions of web users. This is very difficult to pull off and rare, so manage your expectations. Know who you are trying to reach, your target audience, and develop a creative and distribution strategy that is consistent with them. LTP: So now I have the video shot and edited, what’s next? JG: There are a variety of distribution models, I'll outline some basics. First is obvious, posting the video to your business Web site. Second are social networking sites — Facebook, Linkedin, Myspace. You
should have a welldesigned, custom page on these sites for your business. Videos and other content can be added to these pages. Third, there are several video sharing sites on the Internet. A few examples include YouTube, Daily Motion, Vimeo, Veoh, Metacafe and Yahoo Video (there are many others). Similar to the social networking sites, you should set up a custom page for your business and then add videos to the pages. These sites allow you to post your video for free and also offer paid programs to promote your videos if you choose to go that route. Next, the video can be compressed and e-mailed to the business e-mail list (you do have a current and well-maintained e-mail list right?). Alternatively you can e-mail a link back to your Web site if you don't want to e-mail the video itself.
Finally, if the video meets broadcast standards you can purchase paid media on local television stations. LTP: Any final words of advice for businesses considering video? JG: Besides the most obvious but often overlooked production aspects: correct lighting, good quality sound, interesting camera framing, a video, film or any other content, no matter how well-produced, won't do anything for a business if no one sees it. I've gone over some basics of distribution and that should be the very first conversation you have with your team, prior to production. Also, the video is only one tool within your marketing mix, it’s not a magic bullet solution. Rather it can compliment and enhance your current marketing efforts. And I can’t stress this enough — tell a compelling story.
Coast Highway 101. While many are familiar with the gardens, what people may not know is that the religious nonprofit organization also owns some of the city’s most prime coastal real estate, most of which it uses for purely agricultural purposes. Brother Anilananda made it clear that none of the holdings are for sale. “We get a few calls from developers inquiring about the property but I think most of them have gotten the message by now,” he said. “We aren’t selling.” Anilananda said he had no idea what the monetary value of the 14 acres is but that it serves a higher purpose to the organization. “We grow 20 different kinds of fruits and vegetables for our monastic on the Summit and Vulcan (Avenues) fields,” he said. “Tending the gardens is a part of who we are.” The annual pumpkin harvest also yields benefits to the entire community. Until 2001, the fellowship hosted a Halloween festival that featured intricately carved pumpkins as a highlight of the evening. “It just became too big of an event for us to handle,” Anilananda said. “What started out as a few hundred
people decades ago turned into 10,000.” The organization has been donating carved pumpkins to the Downtown Encinitas Mainstreet Association’s Halloween celebration. Postulant, or beginning monks, are responsible for carving the pumpkins each year in addition to their spiritual studies and meditation. “We leave it up to the postulants and their own creativity what they want to carve,” Anilananda said. The fellowship has 50 monks, nuns and postulants, who are not recognizable as monastics when walking around town without their orange robes. With the exception of 2006, the fellowship has taken pumpkins from its own garden to supply the monks. According to Anilananda several changes were made two years ago to the agriculture systems that necessitated a break in planting. “We set up permanent beds and added a new irrigation system,” he said. “With the addition of worms to enrich the soil we are hoping to increase the nutrients in the soil.” The monks managed to use pumpkins from the fellowship’s Escondido location to
create unique carvings for the city’s downtown event. “I think we might have bought a few, too,” Anilananda said with a laugh. While the fellowship doesn’t invite visitors into the vegetable gardens, Anilananda said he understands the draw that they have on people. “I love to see people enjoying the garden as much as we do,” he said. In 2005, an estimated two-thirds of the pumpkin harvest was stolen just before monks began working on the carvings. The experience has not deterred the organization from continuing the growing season in the same relatively unconfined way. Two benches along Summit Avenue provide a sitting area for those not willing to venture past the fence into the garden. With a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean, the fellowship’s gardens are an obvious attraction for locals and visitors alike. “You don’t have to call in advance, just come and enjoy the paradise,” said Brother Ramananda, a senior monk, whose youth and vigor belie his mid-70s age. Photographer John Westing said he visits the “inner sanctum” on a regular basis. “I take
photos of the same scenery but there is a difference in the final image depending on how I am feeling and the spiritual energy of the place on any given day,” he said. Others come to meditate or practice the teachings of Yogananda that are offered through a home study course for a fee. Cynthia Callum admitted she was self-conscious about sitting crosslegged to meditate on a bench in the fellowship gardens. “I’m new at this (meditating) and I thought coming to this place would help me concentrate,” she said. “Yogananada’s teachings make a lot of common sense but I feel like I’m just taking baby steps right now.” Callum lost her job as a human resources director early last year and has been unable to find work. “I came here very desperate and not much has changed in my life except the way I deal with it, how much energy I give to the negative,” she said. After two hours of focused meditation, Callum said she felt better. “The point is to maintain this great feeling I have right now,” she said. “I’ll get there, I’m glad this space is here to help me feel the presence of God.”
ENCINITAS FIRST • MARCH 2010
Choose a great lifestyle. Imagine starting your day with a little exercise at the ďŹ tness center followed by a refreshing dip in the pool. After your work-out, you enjoy a healthy breakfast served to you in a beautifully appointed, restaurant-style dining room. In the afternoon, you join the group for an outing in town, returning just in time for dinner with friends and a movie in the private screening room. Imagine all of this, plus the support of a well-trained staff when you need it. Imagine yourself at Belmont Village.
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