FINE magazine Holiday Issue December 2014

THE BEJEWELED

SYMPHONY

GAME ON

Top 3 Consoles for Your Home

CULINARY CRUSADE

From France to California, the Au Revoir Restaurant Offers the Best of Both Worlds

THE FAST AND THE GAS-LESS

Electric Vehicles Taking Charge

$3.95

VOLUME 8 ISSUE 12

TRENT ANNICHARICO | 760.310.6008 | TRENTA@BANKOFMANHATTAN.COM | NMLS 290594

Introducing

OUR NEW 6/1 ARM 3 3 3

Qualify at the note rate Rates in the low 3’s Loan amounts up to $5MM

Restrictions may apply. Certain limitations, conditions, and fees may apply.

NMLS #401422 Š2014 Bank of Manhattan, N.A.

The Beauty of Home

Furniture Depot HOME FURNISHING & ACCESSORIES

568 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91910, 619-425-2660, furnituredepotstore.com

Holiday Special!

20% OFF THE ENTIRE STORE from November 28 - December 24.

A portion of this sale will benefit Rady Children’s Hospital.

Sincere thanks to all our customers, publishers, and vendors for your incredible support.

Happy Holidays!

16085 SAN DIEGUITO ROAD SUITE E-6

|

RANCHO SANTA FE, CA 92067

|

(858) 759-6647

|

MON - SAT 10-6

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

C onsig nment Shop

The Country Friends consignment shop is filled with upscale furniture, rugs, paintings, crystal, china, and objects d’art. Two floors of new treasures weekly.

When you think of consigning or donating your home accessories or furnishings, think of The Country Friends.

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and our website for new arrivals of merchandise and our upcoming events.

I

t’s the most wonderful time of the year. Cliché, I know, but I just can’t help loving the holidays. Families all over the nation are making the trek to visit relatives and loved ones; holiday tunes and visions of sugarplums dance in our heads during our morning commutes. Entire neighborhoods don holiday lights while front yards are home to inflatable snowmen and wire-frame reindeer. Carolers chant the classics while chestnuts roast on an open fire. December is a month of togetherness, a month of love, and a month of giving. It’s also a month of reflection, whether it be on our lives, our year, or our souls.

We have so much to offer in our December Issue to complement your holiday season. Review our gift guide for a hand-picked selection of San Diego’s FINEst products of the year.

Explore the gaming world with our overview of the major gaming consoles that seem to be on all of our children’s lists. Charge up with a look at the latest allelectric cars, taste the newest quality restaurants in San Diego, and we even help you keep up with your New Years Resolutions.

Remember to get your fill of seasonal coffee before it’s too late (Peppermint White Mocha is my favorite!).

From all of us here at FINE Magazine, we hope that you have an amazing holiday season full of laughs and love. We’re so blessed to have been by your side through 2014, and we know that 2015 will hold even more wonderful moments to come.

PUBLISHER

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH

Shop hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10:00am- 4:00pm 6030 El Tordo, Rancho Santa Fe 92067

www.thecountryfriends.org

858-756-1192

The Country Friends is a charitable 501 (c) (3) organization that supports human care agencies with emphasis on those providing services to women, children, the elderly and persons with disabilities in San Diego County. Tax ID: 95-6514998

Created by celebrity jewelry designer Nancy Rosen, Housewives Jewelry was designed as ”travel jewelry” for upscale clients who don’t want to risk the loss or theft of their fine pieces during travel. But it’s now a favorite of ”real” housewives who crave the finest fashion at affordable prices. Add color to your favorite LBD with this peridot beaded, hinged brass cuff bracelet. $59 Available for purchase at www.HousewivesJewelry.com.

25% off for FINE readers: use discount code: FINEHOUSEWIVES

TIRED OF TRAVELING COACH? Upgrade to First Class with Oakwood Escrow

OAKWOOD ESCROW RANCHO BERNARDO TEAM • 858-217-5264 Pam Reifeiss 858-217-5264 PamR@OakwoodEscrow.com

Kitty Toft 858-217-5251

Shelley Wells 858-217-5241

Deborah Boykin-Stettler 858-217-5247

KToft@OakwoodEscrow.com

SWells@OakwoodEscrow.com

DeborahB@OakwoodEscrow.com

Kim Ginsberg 858-217-5264

Candi Wisley 858-217-5434

PHopper@OakwoodEscrow.com

Pam Lawrence 858-217-5268 PLawrence@OakwoodEscrow.com

KimG@OakwoodEscrow.com

CandiW@OakwoodEscrow.com

Donna Franklin 858-217-5249

Maggie Nejera 858-217-5264

Monica Sulentic 858-217-5254

DonnaF@OakwoodEscrow.com

MNajera@OakwoodEscrow.com

Janelle Finley-Moore 858-217-5252 Jfm@OakwoodEscrow.com

Lucia Quezada 858-217-5269 LQuezada@OakwoodEscrow.com

Molly O’Dell 858-240-2802 Concierge@OakwoodEscrow.com

Aaron Lawler 619-300-7811 ALawler@OakwoodEscrow.com

Jason Scally 858-217-5264 JScally@OakwoodEscrow.com

Patty Hopper 858-240-2726

MonicaS@OakwoodEscrow.com

OAKWOOD ESCROW METRO MISSION VALLEY TEAM • 619-677-1475 Danna Fore 619-430-4583 DFore@OakwoodMetro.com

Maureen Healy 858-217-5253 Mhealy@oakwoodescrow.com

Steve Fagerwold 619-430-4582 SteveF@OakwoodMetro.com

Jesse Ferguson 619-430-4584 JesseF@OakwoodMetro.com

Dana Queen 619-430-4579 DQueen@OakwoodMetro.com

Jennifer Valenzuela 619-430-4580 Jenval@OakwoodMetro.com

Bethany Haimsohn 619-430-4585 Bethany@Oakwoodmetro.com

Cathia Serpa 619-430-4592 Cserpa@Oakwoodmetro.com

Shelby Barber 619-430-4581 Concierge@OakwoodMetro.com

Alton Hall 619-761-1121 Alton@OakwoodMetro.com

Ahmed Al Saedi 619-677-1475 ASaedi@OakwoodMetro.com

Angie Stanley 858-217-5248 AStanley@OakwoodEscrow.com

Craig McEwen 858-525-5613 Craig@oakwoodmetro.com

Estee Dvora 818-269-2547 Estee@oakwoodmetro.com

Jennifer Hernandez 619-430-4590 Jhernandez@oakwoodmetro.com

Jennifer Morris 858-240-4218 Jmorris@Oakwoodescrow.com

OAKWOOD ESCROW

OAKWOOD ESCROW METRO

16855 West Bernardo Drive | Suite 300 San Diego, CA 92127 | 858-217-5264

www.OakwoodEscrow.com LIC#963-2606

3465 CAMINO DEL RIO SOUTH, SUITE 200 SAN DIEGO, CA 92108, 619-677-1475 Oakwood Escrow metro

TM

It’s not a new way, it’s just called your way

www.OakwoodMetro.com LIC# 96DBO-35652

Published by FINE Media Group, Inc.

PUBLISHER

HEATHER WINFIELD EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

JOHN WINFIELD CREATIVE DIRECTOR

LATENIGHT DESIGN ASSISTANT EDITORS

EMILY GLASER CHRISTIAN GAXIOLA CONTENT EDITOR

RYAN STANDIFIRD ADVERTISING AND EVENT COORDINATOR

ROXANA BARHAGHI ONLINE MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA

CHRISTIAN GAXIOLA INTERNS

MELISSA PORTER, STEVEN LEONG, JENNIFER WEBER, CHRISTINE VERANGO, JAMES MORAN COVER PHOTOGRAPHY:

ODETTE SUGERMAN CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

IGOR & LANA DOVBENKO (STUNNING-PHOTOGRAPHY.COM) CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

BOB MOREY ERICA MINER ROBIN SATTERWHITE DR. DAVID MELENDEZ KEITH TURNER MISSY POWERS CAITLIN JOHNSON MATTHEW SHELHART ANALISA GREER WAYNE MCCOLLUM ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

SUSIE POLMER BOB MOREY JERRY HUDSON DAWN SEBAUGH WAYNE MCCOLLUM ADVERTISING INFORMATION

760-908-5729 / SALES@FINESD.COM EDITORIAL SUBMISSION

EDITORIAL@FINESD.COM FINE MEDIA OFFICE

18029 CALLE AMBIENTE STE 506, P.O. BOX 3869 RANCHO SANTA FE, CA 92027, 858-759-7900

For more information visit

FINEsd.com

I F LY S C H U B AC H Because the best gifts are experiences.

There’s no better gift than quality time with loved ones. A private flight on a Schubach aircraft is an especially memorable experience. We save hours of travel time flying direct to our holiday destination. Schubach’s established reputation for service and safety makes them the ideal partner.

Award-Winning Service | Largest San Diego - Based Fleet | 760.929.0307 | 800.214.8215 | www.SchubachAviation.com Est. 1991

License c-27 & c-53 942252

Visit our website for more inspiration www.TBLandscaping.com

858.335.8151

Imagine the Possibilities

Custom pool and landscape designs by award-winning landscape architect Experienced artisan construction and craftsmanship Cost-saving water solutions for any landscape Unique finish techniques Landscape and tree maintenance

CONTRIBUTORS EMILY GLASER After graduating from Davidson College with a Bachelors in English, Emily migrated to the West Coast and made her home in San Diego. Since then she’s found herself on various career paths, including assisting with political campaigns, event planning for non-profits and serving burgers and beers to tourists. In addition to freelance writing and editing, Emily enjoys returning to her roots while reading Southern literature, runs through Balboa Park, and spending quality time with her cat, Thomas.

ANALISA GREER Analisa Greer resides in San Diego. She completed a Master of Social Work degree, with a mental health concentration, at the University of Southern California. She was formerly employed as a Child Welfare Specialist and she is passionate about writing, philanthropy, and mindfulness therapy. She is also very interested in alternative healing methods.

CAITLIN JOHNSON Caitlin Johnson is a freelance multimedia journalist. She has a strong love for food and culture and is always searching for the stories that aren’t on the front page.

Her experience has taken her around the world, and she aspires to continue traveling in search of the stories that must be told.

STEVEN KINGSTON LEONG A single digit handicap golfer who once dreamed of playing professionally has a newfound passion in writing. He seeks to work in journalism and like every college student’s dream has his eyes and heart set on changing the world. He is presently on his last year at UC San Diego.

WAYNE MCCULLUM A travel and resort contributor to publications in the Pacific Northwest, California, Arizona and the Southwest for the past 20 years.

DR. DAVID MELENDEZ Dr. David Melendez, D.C. is a leading expert on restoring health and vitality utilizing the latest structural, rehabilitative and nutritional methods.

As the director of Gold Coast Chiropractic Center for the past 24 years in Cardiff by the Sea, CA, a 100 Year Lifestyle Affiliate office, Dr. Melendez is a popular speaker in the community empowering people to heal and live well with lectures on nutrition, exercise and spinal correction. www.goldcoastchiro.net

ERICA MINER Former Metropolitan Opera violinist Erica Miner has had a multi-faceted career as an award winning author, screenwriter, arts writer, and lecturer. Her San Diego Opera reviews and interviews have appeared on the music websites LAOpus.com, BroadwayWorld.com, USBachtrack.com and OperaPulse.com. Erica resides in Carlsbad with her extremely cultured French husband. www.ericaminer.com BOB MOREY Bob Morey has been writing for over 20 years, covering a wide range of topics from veterans and political issues to lifestyle and events. Bob got his start writing commercials for a production company in Los Angeles that lead him to work on several screenplays. He now resides in San Diego, where he is working on his first novel.

MELISSA PORTER Melissa Porter is a San Diego native and a recent San Diego State University graduate where she earned her B.A in Journalism.

She enjoys writing about fashion, beauty and health.

MISSY POWERS Hey there, I’m Missy host and creator of Waves n’ Craves!

Inviting you into my home and kitchen (youtube.com/ wavesncraves) sharing the stoke and throwin’ down delectable recipes with a healthy twist. Obsessed food blogger and perpetually inspired by my love of surfing and anything ocean related.

MATTHEW SHELHART Matthew Shelhart is a technology writer from Los Angeles, CA with a love and passion for video games and fitness. When he isn’t spending time at the gym he is staying up till the early morning playing video games.

In fact, he loves video games so much he decided to start writing about them so everyone would have to hear his opinion.

KEITH TURNER Keith Turner is a freelance automotive journalist who has worked as a writer and editor for many daily newspapers and dozens of magazines throughout his career. He was a member of the team that won the Pulitzer Prize for Meritorious Public Service in 1989 and also has won numerous writing and public relations awards in his career. He founded The Family Car and Green Family Car automotive review services, and produces a video automotive review channel on YouTube (The Family Car).

He can be reached via email at Carguy@ Hotmail.com. Follow him in Twitter @KTcarguy.

SPECIALIZING IN HIGH NET WORTH DIVORCE ASSET DIVISION, CUSTODY DISPUTES AND COMPLEX LEGAL MATTERS.

ILONA ANTONYAN, CFLS. CERTIFIED FAMILY LAW SPECIALIST* Litigation Trial Attorney

(619) 696-1100

WWW.EXPERTDIVORCELAW.COM Attorneys on Your Side... We Go to Battle for You! ™

SYMPHONY TOWERS 750 B ST, 32ND FLOOR SUITE 3200 SAN DIEGO, CA 92101 INFO@EXPERTDIVORCELAW.COM

MEDIATION

DIVORCE

PATERNITY

CHILD CUSTODY/VISITATION

ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

CHILD SUPPORT

SPOUSAL SUPPORT

MOVE-AWAY REQUESTS

PRE-NUPTIAL/MARITAL AGREEMENTS

STEP-PARENT ADOPTION

PROPERTY DIVISION

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

LEGAL SEPARATION

RESTRAINING ORDERS

ANNULMENT

POST-JUDGMENT MODIFICATION

DOMESTIC PARTNERSHIP

CONTEMPT OF COURT

WWW.EXPERTDIVORCELAW.COM *The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization

D E C E M B E R 3 1 ST 2 0 1 4

BLACK TIE CEO CLUB presents

DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER 100% OF PROFITS BENEFIT ABUSED & ABANDONED DOGS CORPORATE SPONSOR

Faceboob.com/blacktiecigarclub

“A CEO’s First Call”

For ticket information: www.BlackTieCEOClub.com

F E AT U R E S

CONTENTS MAGAZINE 54 FINE 2014 GIFT GUIDE BEJEWELED 56 THE SYMPHONY

62 GAME ON

An in-depth look at the top three next-gen gaming consoles.

ON THE COVER:

Model Lena Zawaideh is wearing a Jovani dress, $850, available at Lux Ave Boutique. She is also wearing an Italianate 18 kt yellow gold necklace featuring 82 ct of blue aquamarine with 11.06 ct brilliant diamonds and pearls, $53,900, available at The Collector Fine Jewelry.

Photographed by Odette Sugerman.

THIS PAGE:

Lena is wearing an Olena Darts dress, $1,100, available at Lux Ave Boutique. Photographed by Stunning Photography (Lana Dovbenko).

18

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

D E PA R T M E N T S

CONTENTS

LEONARD SIMPSON’S 10 BEST DRESSED AWARDS GALA. Photo by Jessie Aguayo

22 CALENDAR

December / January Events FRONT & CENTER 26 THE FAST AND THE GAS-LESS

Electric vehicles will

put a charge into your

driving experience.

30

INDIAN WELLS: THE HIDDEN GEM OF CALIFORNIA Visitors beware, you won’t want to leave Indian Wells.

32

EXPANDING EL PASO The Newest Shopping and Dining Experiences in Palm Desert’s Favorite Shopping District.

34 GIVING FOR A LIVING

How one San Diego family

strives to pay it forward.

20

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

36

UNIVERSITY OF CHANGE UCSD Students partner with the Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children to support Tijuana orphanage.

H E A LT H & BE AU T Y 38 HOLIDAY HEALTH IS WEALTH

How to Make This Your

Healthiest Holiday Season Ever.

40 APP-SOLUTELY COMMITTED

The Best Apps to Help

You Maintain Your New Year’s Resolutions.

HOME & ST Y LE 42 LOVELY LEATHER:

ACCESSORIES FOR

FALL FASHION 44 DEL MAR: SAN DIEGO’S

BEAUTIFUL PLAYGROUND

W INE & DINE 66 THE TASTE OF AU REVOIR

From France to California,

Au Revoir offers the best of

both worlds.

70 HEALTHY HOLIDAY

APPLE CRISP ART & SOCIETY 72 DECEMBER SOCIAL

SCENE EVENTS

80

25 YEARS OF IMAGINATIVE DANCE Q&A with San Diego Ballet’s Javier Velasco.

82

FINISHING STRONG San Diego’s performing arts scene blossoms as the year comes to a close.

•

•

•

BRIONI CORNELIANI RAVAZZOLO PAUL & SHARK GARDEUR ALBERTO & MANY MORE. ZANELLA

•

•

73655 El Paseo Suite K, Palm Desert, CA 92260 760.836.0250 (Between Larkspur and San Luis Rey) pompeiismensapparel.com

CALENDAR

DECEMBER/JANUARY

HOLIDAY POPS WITH EILEEN IVERS: A CELTIC CELEBRATION When: December 19th- 21st Where: Copley Symphony Hall Admission: $30-72 Ireland’s own fiddle champion and Grammy Award winner Eileen Ivers joins the San Diego Symphony for a celebration of the holiday season! Enjoy everyone’s favorite holiday favorites, including “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing” and “The Holly Tree,” as well as traditional Irish ballads like “The Wexford Carol.” The most wonderful time of the year spans continents and traditions at the San Diego Symphony. www.sandiegosymphony.org

DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS!

When: Nov. 15-Dec. 27 Where: Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage, The Old Globe The Grinch returns for his 17th turn on the stage at the Old Globe, just in time for the holiday season! Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! is a raucous musical based on the beloved children’s book by Dr. Seuss. Come enjoy all your Christmas favorites, including “Fah Who Doraze” from the animated classic. It’s just not Christmas without a little time in Whoville! www.theoldglobe.org

The Hunchback of Notre Dame has been extended!

Based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel and brought to life by two of America’s best, composer Alan Menken and lyricist Stephen Schwartz, the show revels in musical artistry. The traditional tale of betrayal, love, and the strength of the heart will capture your own heart in this beautiful adaptation. www.lajollaplayhouse.org

THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME When: October 26th-December 14th Where: Mandell Weiss Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse Admission: $99-129

22

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

When: December 5th-7th Where: Copley Symphony Hall Admission: $20-96 Phillipe Quint, a master of the violin, steals the show in this beautiful series of symphonic pieces, joined by the San Diego Master Chorale as well as a quartet of talented international singers. The musicians travel through Russia, enjoying the peppy steps of Nicolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s “May Night” overture, then journey on to Armenia with Aram Khachaturian’s “Violin Concerto,” before finally arriving in Austria with Franz Joseph Haydn’s heartfelt masterpiece “Paukenmesse.” www.sandiegosymphony.org

THE 24TH ANNUAL PAUL ECKE, JR. POINSETTIA BALL

THE NUTCRACKER

When: December 27th and 28th Where: Copley Symphony Hall Admission: $20-100 Come enjoy the treasured Christmas classic, rife with San Diego’s most talented ballerinas and dancers from around the world! The Nutcracker celebrates its 25th year in an unrestricted pageantry of dance, costumes and Tchaikovsky’s beloved music. Join the San Diego Ballet in sending off the holiday season! www.sandiegoballetdancecompany.org

QUINT PLAYS KHACHATURIAN

THE SECOND CITY’S NUT-CRACKING HOLIDAY REVUE

When: November 28th-December 21 Where: Mandell Weiss Forum, La Jolla Playhouse Admission: $48-58 The Second City, the world’s foremost school of improvisation and comedy club, returns to San Diego for the holidays’ funniest show! Original songs, sketches and improv tell the traditional tales of holiday enchantment, wonder and pandemonium. Fill your season with extra smiles and laughs at The Second City’s Nut-Cracking Holiday Revue! www.lajollaplayhouse.org

When: December 13th Where: Gary E. Biszantz Family Gymnasium, The Magdalena Ecke Family YMCA Benefactors of the Magdalena Ecke Family YMCA will gather together in celebration of the holiday season and the YMCA’s mission once again this year. The blacktie gala will feature live entertainment, a silent auction, delicious cocktails, a lavish gourmet meal, and a beautiful display of a variety of poinsettia species. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Magdalena Ecke Family YMCA. www.ecke.ymca.org (continued on page 24)

Take your passion to the next level with our wide selection of sensual heighteners for men and women

Deja Vu Love Boutique, 2130 Industrial Ct., Vista, Ca 92081 (760) 598-5889, dejavuloveboutiquevista.com

Fun and sexy stocking stuffers Large selection of intimate lingerie

Sensual bath and body • Luxury bedroom toys

CALENDAR

DECEMBER/JANUARY (continued from page 22)

SKATING BY THE SEA

When: November 27th-January 4th Where: Windsor Lawn, Hotel del Coronado Skating by the Sea celebrates its 10th anniversary this year at the Del. Enjoy your favorite holiday tradition, ice skating, while overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Skating by the Sea is the epitome of a Southern California Christmas! www.hoteldel.com

LAMB’S FESTIVAL OF CHRISTMAS: NORTHERN LIGHTS

When: November 29thDecember 28th Where: Lamb’s Players Theater, Coronado Admission: $22-72 The annual holiday production returns to Lamb’s, this year revisiting “Northern Lights,” last performed ten years ago.

The play tells the tale of three generations of midwestern Americans in the mid-20th century as their Christmas plans go awry following a burst of pipes. Bring the whole family to the joyous holiday spectacular!

San Diego’s Musical Theatre, just in time for the holidays! The heartwarming tale follows two WWII veterans who use their own song-and-dance act to woo a pair of singing sisters as they travel to their show in a Vermont lodge. Young and old alike will sing along to the sounds of the holidays! www.sdmt.org

WICKED

When: November 12-December 7th Where: San Diego Civic Theatre Admission: $40-190 Broadway San Diego brings back what many have heralded as The Best Musical of the Decade, “Wicked!” The tale of two sisters, misunderstood and misinterpreted by the annals of time, enraptures the viewers in this popular production. After winning over 50 major awards, “Wicked’s” turn in San Diego is not to be missed! www.broadwaysd.com

SAN DIEGO BAY PARADE OF LIGHTS

WHITE CHRISTMAS

When: December 11thDecember 21st Where: Birch North Park Theatre Admission: $32-72 One of America’s most treasured Christmas films, beautifully adapted for the stage and enthusiastically performed by

When: December 14th and 21st Where: San Diego Bay One of San Diego’s favorite holiday traditions returns! Come watch as the parade of over 80 bedecked boats glides through the San Diego Bay. Perfect viewing points include the Coronado Ferry Landing, Shelter Island past Harbor Island, the Embarcadero and Seaport Village. Your children are sure to sit back in awe as the beautifully shining boats shimmer by. www.sandiego.org

CABINETS

CLOSETS

W I N D O W T R E AT M E N T S

FLOOR COVERINGS

K I T C H E N S A N D B AT H S

© 2014 CREATIVE DESIGN GROUP LICENSE # 878320

We work with you to create your dream environment Our focus is simple – creating beautiful atmospheres that will brighten your mood and bring contentment to the places you live and work. Listening to our clients and having inspiration from something as small as a piece of tile, is how we work with you to create your dream environment.

Coming home to your very own sanctuary, is what we strive to accomplish for you.

Call us today for a complimentary consultation or visit our showroom to meet our designers.

1 4 2 N O R T H C E D R O S AV E N U E , S O L A N A B E A C H , C A

(858) 259-8602

C R E AT I V E D E S I G N G R . C O M

L U X U R Y

FRONT & CENTER THE FAST AND THE GAS-LESS Electric vehicles will put a charge into your driving experience.

BY KEITH TURNER

The sleek Tesla Model S.

I 26

magine cruising the beautiful wine country in your high-performance luxury sports car, swiftly and silently gliding through the hills with nary a sound nor a care in the world. You smile as you sail past gas stations, knowing that you will never again be forced to stop and pump your car full of smelly fossil fuels at some grungy gas station in the middle of nowhere. (continued on page 28)

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

Elite Detailing proudly displaying the trophy for the Circle of Excellence won at Bella Italia 2014.

Protect Your Investment

Elite Finish Detailing offers the industry’s leading paint protective coating, C.Quartz FINEST. As the Master Detailers of C.Quartz FINEST, Elite’s technicians will first bring your car to award winning condition prior to application of this extremely exclusive coating. This service not only keeps the car clean and glossy longer than any other form of detailing, it’s also backed by a two-year limited warranty. Resistant to almost anything your vehicle may encounter.

$200 off any CQuartz Finest Service.

Services starting at $1,000.

MENTION THIS AD FOR DISCOUNT

OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN PREMIUM AUTO DETAILING |

5-STAR RATING ON YELP

858.876.8794 | elitefinishdetailing.com | Detail@EliteFinishDetailing.com

FRONT & CENTER | LU XURY (continued from page 26)

Clockwise from top left: The luxurious interior of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric; The sporty BMW i3; The traditional gas tank is replaced with a charger on the Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric.

Right page: The Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric takes to the road.

It’s an electrifying idea that’s already a reality for many automakers who have seen the light and are rolling out gasfree vehicles, fueled only by the power grid, not the pump.

Plug-in electric vehicles are seen by many as the wave of the automotive future, emerging more and more as we strive to wean ourselves off of imported oil. With electric cars leading the charge, we are becoming more self-sufficient, economical, and environmentally clean.

Currently, dozens of automakers feature electric – or electrified – models in their lineups, with styles and options to fit just about any taste. Over the past decade, hybrid vehicles have been paving the way by combining gasoline engines with electric motors to extend a car’s fuel mileage without sacrificing distance travelled between fill-ups. Today, nearly every automaker features a hybrid model in its lineup, with many achieving an impressive 40-50 miles per gallon of gas. Plug-in hybrids, such as the Cadillac ELR, Chevrolet Volt, Toyota Prius Plug-in, Porsche Panamera, and others, extend that range even further by running on electriconly charge for a short distance – such as driving around town – before the gasoline engine kicks in for longer distances.

But true electric vehicles take the technology a step farther.

E-cars rely solely on electricity for power, with no gasoline needed at all. They are charged through electrical outlets – at home or at commercial charging stations – and store the power in batteries built into the vehicle. The battery technology is

28

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

rapidly developing to be able to provide a longer lasting charge without adding hundreds of pounds of weight to the vehicle.

When it comes to range – the distance that the car travels on a single battery charge – most of today’s electric vehicles are achieving approximately 80-100 miles per change, making them great for around town driving and short commutes.

But longer trips – like weekend getaways to Palm Springs or Mammoth Mountain – are virtually out of the question for most e-cars because a mid-trip recharge would be required.

TESLA MODEL S There is, however, one e-car automaker that stands out from the crowd when it comes to battery range. Tesla, headed by billionaire visionary and entrepreneur Elon Musk, co-founder of PayPal and current CEO of SpaceX, is way ahead of the competition.

The Tesla Model S, a luxuriously appointed sedan, is creating a clear case of “range envy” among other e-car makers. With its own, proprietary battery design and rapidly expanding fast charging network, Tesla has achieved a range of 265 miles per charge and a super re-charging time from empty to full in about 20 minutes. This means you can travel from San Diego to Santa Barbara and still have enough battery life left to go shopping and out to dinner before the need to re-charge.

In addition, Tesla’s next car, the P85D, will have two motors and all-wheel drive, giving it rocket-like quickness off the starting

line, equal to the McLaren F1 and a slightly farther driving range of 275 miles per charge over the current rear-wheel-drive Model S. For those who prefer safety over high performance, the new Tesla Model S will have an “auto-pilot” feature that allows the car to automatically avoid danger and come close to driving itself. (Starting MSRP: $71,070 to $120,170).

BMW I3 The maker of the “ultimate driving machine” has been flirting with electric power for quite some time, and finally is delivering the all-new BMW i3 hatchback that boasts 170 horsepower and a range of up to 110 miles on an electric charge.

The i3 is a brand new model to the BMW family sporting a unique design that is sure to turn heads in any parking lot. The sensually curved hatchback is so striking that it collected two of the most prestigious international awards soon after its market launch: the World Car Design of the Year Award as well as the World Green Car Award for 2014.

And while the i3 can be recharged in just about 3.5 hours, BMW recently added a range extender motor option for 2015, a two-gallon on-board gasoline motorcycle engine that kicks in to assist in recharging the battery when it hits a certain (low) level. This option extends the range of the i3 to about 150 miles before a full re-charge is needed. (Starting MSRP: $41,350; range extender: $3,950)

MERCEDES-BENZ B-CLASS ELECTRIC For those desiring to include a second e-vehicle to their garage, the Mercedes B-Class Electric Drive fills the need for an efficient around town commuter, perfect for dropping the kids off at school, trips to the golf course or shopping with friends, all without sipping a single drop of gasoline. The B-Class, which rolls into limited U.S. markets in 2015, is a practical yet luxurious five-door crossover that can accommodate people and packages as well as any small SUV, yet can travel up to 85 miles on a single charge.

Inside, the B-Class is all Mercedes with premium features befitting a Benz, including hand-finished leather and wood, driving assists that watch your blind spot, prevent collisions and even allow you to park your car hands-free. (Starting MSRP: $41,450) Other fully-electric cars currently on the market include the Kia Soul EV, Nissan LEAF, Chevrolet Spark EV, Fiat 500e, Ford Focus Electric, Mitsubishi i-MiEV, Smart Electric, Toyota RAV4 EV, and the Volkswagen E-Golf. All of these models achieve between 80-100 miles per battery charge, making them best for short-to-medium commutes and daily driving duties. If your needs carry you further afield, then you might want to consider a plug-in hybrid.

So pack up your bags and hit the road, and be sure to smile as you watch your last gas station fade into the past. Go electric!

facebook.com/FINEmagazines | FINEsd.com

29

FRONT & CENTER | T R AV E L

INDIAN WELLS: THE HIDDEN GEM OF CALIFORNIA Visitors beware, you won’t want to leave Indian Wells.

B Y WAY N E M C C O L L U M

I

ndian Wells, California has long been recognized as one of the premier residential/resort destinations in North America.

Within a two-hour drive of Southern California’s famed beaches and ski resorts, Indian Wells boasts 350 days of sunshine, an average annual temperature of 74 degrees, phenomenal sports facilities, four luxurious resort hotels, and wide-spread amenities for residents and guests alike. Visitors are often so captivated by everything Indian Wells has to offer that they choose to make this sun-drenched city their permanent or seasonal home. Situated approximately 120 miles from Los Angeles and San Diego, with Santa Barbara only some 200 miles, Phoenix at about 250 miles, and Las Vegas just over 300 miles away, Indian Wells is the perfect center point to some of the West’s favorite destinations.

HIGH QUALITY LIFESTYLE Guests and residents alike are continually lured to the many amenities Indian Wells offers, including four world-class resorts, Indian Wells Golf Resort, Indian Wells Tennis Garden, a variety of cultural programs, impressive resident benefits, and much more.

Indeed, idyllic Indian Wells offers an experience that truly elicits a state of overall well-being. Since hosting the BNP Paribas Tennis Tournament, Indian Wells has become globally renowned. The tennis stadium is the second largest in the world. It’s built on 89 acres and has 16,100 seats and 22 courts. Last year’s event drew 431,000 tennis fans. Hello golfers, this is where you want to be

30

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

with six private country clubs and the famous Indian Wells Golf Resort with 36 holes of prime and pristine golf that is open to the public with a clubhouse, Pro shop, and VUE Grille & Bar that is second-to-none. Combine that with sunny blue skies, sensational temperatures and world class golfing and Indian Wells has become a choice destination to visit or live.

FUN AND RELAXATION AROUND EVERY CORNER It’s not only the tennis and golf that brings people to the valley, but following the tennis in March are two notable music festivals during April. The first is the Coachella Music Festival, known as “Coachella,” and the second is the “Stagecoach Music Festival,” both held at the Empire Polo Club in Indio. Fifteen minutes from Indian Wells is the state-of-the-art McCallum Theatre for the Performing Arts that holds 1,125 seats and spotlights top performers from across the globe. In this sparkling oasis, there are four world-class resorts: The Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa, home to the Aqua Serena Spa and Salon, The MiraMonte Resort & Spa, home to The Well Spa, The Renaissance Esmeralda Resort, home to The Spa Esmeralda, and The Indian Wells Resort Hotel. A number of the finest restaurants in the valley are only minutes away as well as world-class shopping on El Paseo Blvd, often referred to as the “Rodeo Drive of the Desert”. Come visit or come live here and enjoy a top-caliber lifestyle in an exceptional city.

www.TheIdealMatch.com

Single?

With so many members, let us find your match.

For your safety and confidence, we perform criminal background checks on all new members

Confidential and professional

San Diego

No Computers - No Gimmicks - Old Fashioned Matchmaking

8989 Rio San Diego Drive. #135, San Diego, California 92108

619-291-2565

Meet quality singles in your area

We have the best professionals in the personal introduction industry, with decades of combined experience

Palm Desert

74-245 Highway 111, Suite E-204, Palm Desert, California 92260

760-674-2007

FRONT & CENTER | T R AV E L

Service Sales and Consignment Restoration Race Support Track Days Rallies

EXPANDING EL PASEO The newest shopping and dining experiences in Palm Desert’s favorite shopping district.

B Y WAY N E M C C O L L U M Mary and Kelly Gray of GRAYSE

T

The Cavallo Motorsports Team has over 100 years experience in the industry with a vast knowledge of late model and vintage exotic vehicles. Located in coastal North County San Diego, Cavallo Motorsports is the premier service and sales exotic car super center specializing in Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Porsche, VW, Mini, Lotus and Jaguar.

he El Paseo Shopping District offers world-class shopping and dining at the desert’s newest destination.

The season is upon us, and “The Rodeo Drive of the Desert” is already tantalizing shoppers with some new shops and restaurants. Marie and Kelly Gray, the mother and daughter team that put St. John Knits in the upper reaches of high fashion, have teamed up for a new apparel store at the west end of the boulevard. The casual luxury line of ladies wear at GRAYSE is located at 73-130 El Paseo Suite H, Palm Desert.

Susan Stauber, the General Manager, welcomes those looking for the modern collection of specialty separates designed for women who love quality, luxury, and style.

The largest and brightest star on the boulevard is surely PRESAGE, having opened in November. CEO and designer Valerie McNamara prides herself in searching the globe for design, craftsmanship, functionality, and the best of materials. She brings classic style in vivid colors for you and your home. The PRESAGE boutique is Valerie’s vision and is meticulously constructed to allow the client to shop in complete luxury and comfort.

The newest of the many fine restaurants on El Paseo is Il Corso, where chef Mario Marfia and developer John Wessman melded their talents to bring a unique Italian dining experience to El Paseo in Palm Desert. Soon to open is THAI SMILE, sister to the THAI SMILE in Palm Springs that has been offering authentic Thai food here since 1991. This famous street is the place to be during the festive holidays with the many lights and special decorations. Along with these new openings, the long established merchants welcome you as well to the desert’s best shopping and dining experience.

CavalloMotorSports.com 6010 Avenida Encinas, Carlsbad, CA 92011 760.603.8321

Valerie McNamara of Presage

FRONT & CENTER | PHIL A NTHROPY “We love doing family projects on the weekends.” - Vicki Sweeten

GIVING FOR A LIVING

How one San Diego family strives to pay it forward.

BY STEVEN KINGSTON LEONG

I

recently had the pleasure of meeting Vicki and Alan Sweeten, and I’ve got to tell you, this couple really lives up to the name, “sweet.” The philanthropy work they’ve dedicated their lives to has helped the San Diego community considerably. Their philanthropy begins at home, instilling selfless values into their two children and all their close friends and associates. The Sweetens’ success lies in the little things. Success is painting a fence, building a tree house, and having dance parties with your children. Success is donating your time and money wherever you can.

For instance, Vicki Sweeten started a financial program at her company, iMortgage, which donates money for each new signup on behalf of their new client to a charity of that client’s choice. Then, she donates to that same charity in her own name. It’s a doubledown donation strategy that really makes a significant impact.

Meanwhile, Alan Sweeten incorporates the gift of giving through his expertise in financial planning. “Good financial planners are more helpers than salesmen,” he says, and stresses that his methods don’t necessarily match up with those of Wall Street. “I just want to find a way to help people. I think that America would be exponentially better if everyone was more fiscally set up.” Mr. Sweeten believes a company’s focus should include its workforce’s finances. “It would better prepare them in the long run,” he says.

34

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

The Sweetens have contributed to over 20 charities including St. Jude, Habitat for Humanity, My Stuffed Bag Foundation, Red Cross, Unicef, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Over the past two and a half years, they’ve even rescued 16 Labradors and have received the highest award from Labradors and Friends.

The Sweetens also host donation parties that aim to benefit various charities, and in doing so, have inspired their friends to contribute as well. Most recently, they drew in 40 guests with the goal of gathering blankets and stuffed animals to donate to foster children. “The next party they attend will center around supplying new shoes to children in Africa.” When the Sweetens are not attending drives outside Petco & PetSmart or silent auctions and dinners, they offer to conduct free financial wellness education events at non-profits, businesses, and schools.

In the end, the heart of a true philanthropist lies in creating a better world. Their hope is to inspire more people to become givers and to be aware of their actions and impact on society.

Their dream is to assemble a network of philanthropists who share their passion.

Their selflessness is ultimately embodied by their motto: “What do you want to do? Let’s make it happen.”

Changethe theChanel Chanel Change

UpTo To90% 90%Off OffRetail Retail Up mysisterscloset.com mysisterscloset.com shopwellsuited.com shopwellsuited.com

Men••Women Women Men

• a l a l l oJol J a LLa

s s a t a niti i n c i nc n E E •

FRONT & CENTER | CH A R IT Y

FIMRC’s co-president, Gabriella Fleischman, plays with Leo, a Los Angelitos orphan.

UNIVERSITY OF CHANGE

UCSD students partner with the Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children to support Tijuana orphanage.

BY ANALISA GREER

T

36

he Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children (FIMRC) is a nonprofit organization devoted to providing health care for underprivileged communities in developing countries. FIMRC has more than 3,000 staff and volunteers worldwide who work with various outpatient clinics and partnerships to provide community outreach, education and medical services to children. One of these partnerships is a student-led organization at the University of California San Diego (UCSD).

The UCSD chapter of FIMRC is enthusiastic about helping children and making a difference in the world. Pharmacological chemistry major Jonathan Winfield, co-president of the group, told FINE magazine that his involvement with the FIMRC is about donating his time to a worthy cause.

“I was invited by a friend to participate, and I eventually became more and more involved in the project,” said Winfield.

The project that inspired Winfield to commit to FIMRC is the Los Angelitos Orphanage, a nonprofit organization in Tijuana, Mexico.

Winfield and fellow students in the FIMRC group donate much of their time to the children at Los Angelitos, many of whom were abandoned and suffered a life of abuse, neglect and exposure to drug use. Many of them have deceased or incarcerated parents.

Edward Perry and Norma Angelica Contreras founded

Los Angelitos in 2003 after volunteering with a number of orphanages in the Tijuana area. Perry says he was placed in an orphanage at age 4, and his desire to help children growing up in similar situations is what inspires him.

Perry and Contreras had a vision of a creating a nurturing environment where underprivileged children could thrive.

Based on their past experiences, they recognized a need for a children’s home that provides a family-like atmosphere—not just food and shelter. And so began Los Angelitos.

The development of Los Angelitos happened rather quickly.

At the time, there were many local girls in need of immediate shelter, food, and assistance. And when the Department of Social Services was notified, it was quick to accept and register the facility. Perry and Contreras then built a children’s home that fosters education and promotes self-confidence and self-respect.

Winfield said he’s moved by the success of some of the older residents at Los Angelitos. As an example, four girls that landed in the orphanage as small children are now attending the University of Baja, California, studying law and accounting.

Winfield expressed his own humbleness in respect to the achievements of these girls, especially when considering the hardship they’ve faced throughout their lives.

“Being a college student, I know how hard it is to attend

The FIMRC group gathers around the entrance to Los Angelitos on their last visit.

FIMRC members Ha Young Kwen and Sara Rupp break bread with Los Angelitos resident Blanca.

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

Jonathan Winfield, co-president, and Anh La, vicepresident, share a special moment with orphan Michelle.

Luis, a Los Angelitos resident, shares food with FIMRC members Ya-Yun Huang and Nicholas Reyes.

“Being a college student, I know how hard it is to attend school,” he said. “These girls were taken out of a hostile environment and are now excelling at school— this is something worth supporting.”

—Pharmacological Chemistry Major Jonathan Winfield school,” he said. “These girls were taken out of a hostile environment and are now excelling at school— this is something worth supporting.”

Winfield says the FIMRC group visits the orphanage two times every quarter to provide fun activities and education. They play soccer, have bonfires and give one-on-one attention to the children. They also teach the importance of hygiene, providing dental floss and toothpaste. According to Winfield, the children are very grateful for the time they spend with the FIMRC group: “They’re always very excited to see us, and very sad when we leave.”

Winfield explained how seeing children with such limited resources is “striking” in comparison to the lifestyle just over the border in the United States. He points out that Los Angelitos does not receive government assistance and that all school expenses, including college tuition, are paid for by Perry’s own Social Security check, in addition to various donations. Funding, therefore, is quite limited and unable to support the increasing number of children in need.

It costs around $250 per month to provide each child with food, shelter, education, medical and dental care and other basic living-needs. The orphanage houses just 20 children—mostly girls. But the founders have already built a second dormitory for girls and are just waiting on funding to move them in. Once that’s achieved, their next step is to build a kitchen. All of this will enable them to house and feed an additional 30 children.

That’s why Los Angelitos invites and encourages others to help with the cause. There are countless children in the area in need of shelter, food, security, and vital resources, but they’re unable to move into the orphanage due to lack of space and funding.

If you’d like to help Los Angelitos get these children into a nurturing, home-like environment and give them a chance at success, visit their website at www.losangelitos.org. If you’d like to know more about FIMRC, or to make a donation, go to www. fimrc.org. And to inquire about donating directly to the FIMRC UCSD chapter or to get involved in their fundraising efforts, email them at fimrcucsd@gmail.com. Their goal is to raise $20,000 by the end of spring.

facebook.com/FINEmagazines | FINEsd.com

37

H E A LT H

HEALTH & BEAUTY HOLIDAY HEALTH IS WEALTH How to make this your healthiest holiday season ever.

B Y D R . D AV I D M E L E N D E Z

O

nce again, the most wonderful time of the year is upon us. Though the holiday season is often filled with the blessings of health and vitality, it can also be a time of difficulty and the worry of illness. It’s a sad statistical fact that during the holiday season our health can become more vulnerable to illness. The incidences of heart attacks and strokes rise during the holidays, as well as depression, pneumonia, and death from other natural causes; most surprisingly, Christmas Day represents the apex not only of the season, but of these illnesses, as well.

Stress plays a large role in failing health this season, especially if your immune system defenses are weakened. If you look closely at the typical holiday foods, it’s easy to see how our immune systems can become compromised, causing an otherwise healthy individual to become more susceptible to illness. The biggest culprit to promote breakdown is the increased consumption of refined sugars and alcohol, which taxes our immune system and liver, setting the stage for sickness and disease. Whether you are currently blessed with health or not, make the decision to inspire, motivate and encourage others with your healthy actions and deeds this holiday season.

All would agree that your best defense from getting sick is a stronger offense: a strong immune system. The holiday sugar onslaught takes a toll on your immune system, weakens your defenses, and makes you susceptible to illness from viruses and bacteria. You must take control of your sugar intake this holiday season and consume treats only as an earned delicacy- not as a daily staple.

DON’T BE A HYPER-SECRETOR Over indulgence and daily intake of sugar stresses your pancreas to hyper-secrete insulin, setting the stage for inflammation, insulin resistance and diabetes. Control your intake of sugars by being disciplined with healthy foods throughout the week, earning these holiday delicacies as a well-deserved indulgence on the weekend. High insulin causes your body to go into a constant fat storage and inflammation mode and the persistent habit of overindulgence can result in obesity, disease development and chronic pain. Likewise, most chronic diseases of aging, such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes and obesity, are related to a chronic elevation of insulin as a result of high refined sugar intake. Let’s change the forecast. The balance of whole foods and moderation of sugary or fatty treats is the key to healthy holiday celebrations for a lifetime.

38

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

YOU MUST MOVE TO BURN A recently published landmark study followed 2,235 men for 35 years and studied 5 different health behaviors: exercise, diet, smoking habits, body weight and alcohol intake. Those that adhered to a healthy lifestyle- regular exercise, a healthy diet, non-smoking, low body weight and low alcohol intake- reduced their incidence of heart disease and stroke by 70% and cut their risk of dementia by 60%. This year, take advantage of San Diego weather and our beautiful coastal living. By centering your holiday gatherings around activities like hiking, biking, standup paddling or surfing, you help create healthy habits that will last through the season and into the New Year.

ENJOY THE SUNSHINE OF YOUR LIFE Regular, full body exposure to natural sunshine for 20 minutes daily creates 20,000 I.U. of Vitamin D in your body.

Vitamin D is vital to a healthy immune system to help fight bacterial and viral infections, including the flu. If your schedule restricts your exposure to the outdoors, supplement sunshine with Vitamin D3. See your doctor for a blood test to know your levels of Vitamin D and supplement accordingly. A healthy level of Vitamin D also supports a healthy cardiovascular system, reducing the incidence of hypertension, heart attack and stroke.

GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR COOKING Have fun creating new or traditional dishes with healthy alternative ingredients. For instance, search the internet for healthier substitutions for butter, cream, eggs and sugar when baking and surprise your guest with some great tasting and low-calorie dishes. With the abundance of farmers markets nearby, use only the freshest, natural whole food ingredients available. Lead your family and friends with delicious and healthier choices this holiday season.

GIVE THE GIFT OF HEALTH Consider gifts to family and friends that lead to healthy habits.

Health and fitness activity trackers are hot items this year, such as Fitbit or MiCoach, which sync with your smart phone and provide vital health stats and hold you accountable. Gift certificates to the local juice bar, a gym membership, personal training sessions, massage certificate, athletic wear, or a series of chiropractic adjustments are just some of the healthy gifts available to give this year.

Let’s truly make this the most wonderful time of the year by making it the healthiest time of the year, assuring many years of healthy holiday celebrations with inspired family and friends.

Put your dazzle on for the holiday party. Make up on location in the privacy and comfort of your home for your event by Charisma by Christy.

Stop traffic and turn heads. Workshops also available. Professional make up and skin care.

photography by trueblueportrait.com

charismabychristy.com

•

(760) 214-1382

HEALTH & BEAUTY | F I T N E S S

APP-SOLUTELY COMMITTED

The best apps to help you maintain your New Year’s resolutions.

B Y E M I LY G L A S E R

T

he first of the year marks a day of change across the country.

As the fateful day approaches, Americans ready themselves for their New Year’s resolutions by making pledges to themselves and their friends to relinquish their addictions and weaknesses and invest in their health. When that day arrives, we all hit the gym and the juice bar, our hearts and minds fully devoted to our resolutions. But unfortunately, New Year’s resolutions have the terrible habit of slipping through our eager fingers after the first day, week, or month. We helplessly slide back into our old, imbedded habits and promise ourselves that next time - next year - will be different.

This is that year. This year, we’re more committed than ever to our resolutions, and we’ve gathered information on the best apps to help you stay steadfast, too. Whether you want to eat healthier, develop a fitness routine, or engage in a total lifestyle overhaul, these apps will help you get - and keep - the job done.

NEXERCISE (Price: Free) If you need the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel to move a little closer, then Nexercise is the app for you. Described as an “exercise gamification app,” Nexercise awards the user with points for all physical activity, from walking your dog to biking to work to running sprints. Gather enough points and redeem them for gift cards or discounts at your favorite retailers. And since a little competition goes a long way, the app also allows you to compete against your friends. So sit back and enjoy that free latte - you’ve earned it.

IF YOU’RE A RUNNER -OR WANT TO BE Running has long been touted as one of the most beneficial, fullbody workouts. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been jogging for years, there are plenty of apps to help you perfect your run.

IF YOU’RE A FITNESS NEWBIE Many Americans resolve to begin new workout routines on the first of the year. But for someone new to the gym, all those pulleys, wires, and buttons can seem more than a little intimidating.

These apps will help even the least-experienced gym member glide through their workout like a pro.

FITNESS PRO (Price: Free) Fitness Pro is the perfect app for newbies and aficionados alike. If you’re new to the gym, the app provides you with guides and photographs explaining how to use each piece of equipment and how to safely complete corresponding exercises. When you open Fitness Pro, simply choose a target area - glutes, chest, arms - and the app supplies you with the appropriate exercise. Once you’ve discovered your favorites, you can save them into personalized routines that you can access at any time. Those perfect abs you’ve been dreaming of all year are only a finger tap away.

NIKE TRAINING CLUB (Price: Free) A long-time favorite of professional athletes and gym civilians alike, Nike Training Club is full of routines for all skill levels. The app provides users with free 30-40 minutes workouts, individual sets, or even a four-week program based on your personal goal and fitness level. Each exercise contains detailed photos, a step-by-step guide and even a video detailing the movements. Don’t worry about losing steam during your workout the app provides audio encouragement along the way. And with celebrity workouts from the likes of Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams, you’ll never get bored.

40

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

C25K (Price: Free) The classic program for jump-starting your running is officially an app! For years, people have used the C25k app to transform themselves from couch-potatoes to 5K-ready runners. The app provides users with a daily list of workouts that mix running with walking to gradually build stamina. Follow the 8 week program of just 3 workouts weekly (each 30 minutes long) and you’ll be ready to run alongside your friends when that next 5K hits San Diego.

MAP MY RUN (Price: Free) Although the app does accomplish its namesake - it maps your run - it also does a lot more. Map My Run keeps track of your distance, calories burned, and route. Audio cues alert you when you’ve completed another mile, how long that mile took, and your average mile time. When you’ve finished, you can save and compare your current stats to previous runs. The app even allows you to track your diet and other workouts.

Plus, with seamless integration of music programs, that killer Spotify soundtrack you perfected won’t be interrupted mid-mile.

TEMPO RUN (Price: $3) The right song can be the perfect motivator for pushing you through your last mile, while the wrong song can leave you breathless and paceless.

With Tempo Run, at last, your music is perfectly organized for your runs. The app categorizes your iTunes music library based on the song’s tempo, which is translated into running speed. Even if your personal music library is lacking, the app can link with Sound Cloud and a boundless supply of new tunes..

IF YOU’RE CHANGING YOUR DIET Dietitians promise that 80% of a healthy lifestyle is dependent on diet. For many people, eating healthy is a difficult task, especially with a market dense in addictive, sugary snacks and caloriedense convenience foods. These apps help you form healthy eating habits and stick to them.

LOSE IT! (Price: Free) The premise of Lose It! is simple: track your calories in versus your calories out. The app starts by asking you some simple questions about yourself like your age, weight, height, and how much weight you’d like to lose. Then it customizes a weight loss plan just for you.

It accords the user a daily calorie budget and allows them to track their food and exercise. If your calories in are equal to or below your calories out, then you lose weight. The app also holds you accountable by allowing you to share with friends.

Claudia Yates MK Collab Stylist 760-815-2627 www.mkcollab.com/profile/claudiayates

N O W

10/12/14 11:32 AM

FOODUCATE (Price: Free) The maze of grocery store aisles and nutrition labels can be daunting, but Fooducate simplifies the entire process. Use the app’s barcode scanner and Fooducate quickly provides you with a grade of the product, ranging from A+ to D. It translates nutritional jargon into layman’s terms so that the user can easily choose the best, healthiest products.

The New Fall Collection

MKC2014_Flyer_LAFW_101214.indd 2

HEALTHY OUT HEALTHY MEAL FINDER (Price: Free) One of the most difficult tasks in trying to eat healthy is finding options when dining out, on the road or with friends. Healthy Out prevents the user from stumbling haphazardly into dangerous fast-food territory. Just set your location and the app helps you find healthy restaurants, meals or even prepared grocery items nearby. You can filter the search by diet, ingredients, restrictions, or type of cuisine. Never fall victim to the burger again.

760.271.7470 | camilllewfashion@gmail.com

MKC2014_Flyer_LAFW_101214.indd 2

RISE (Price: Free download, $20/week or $60/ month subscription) For those of us who dream of having a personal nutritionist but are either lacking the funds or time, Rise is the perfect solution. Rise connects users with a registered dietitian for one-on-one guidance. Choose your objective - lose weight, learn to eat well, boost energy, prepare for a race, or look good for an event - and your preferred coaching style, then the app matches you with the perfect dietitian. Send photos or details of your food to your coach for approval or advice. Rise puts your own, personal nutritionist at your fingertips.

Frozen, the newest line of fur-accented dresses by Camille, are now available at Ooh La La Boutiques in Del Mar & Carlsbad. The styles range from long & elegant to short & edgy and come in colors of black, silver & white. Each dress has been beautifully accented with touches of white, black or raccoon faux fur.

A V A I L A B L E

E X C L U S I V E L Y

MKCOLLAB.COM V I S I T

U S

T O

V I E W

T H E

N E W

F A L L

C O L L E C T I O N

A T

HOME & STYLE | TR ENDS

Johnston & Murphy’s Sari Stirrup Boot - $398.00 Johnstonmurphy.com

LOVELY LEATHER: ACCESSORIES FOR FALL FASHION

Wrap Flower Brown - $135 shopheet.com

Riders Leather Jacket by Poola Color Midnight ( xs s m l) $428.00 858-792-7400 peachesenregalia.com 42

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

Prima-size Base Bag and handles with interchangeable Dominique Shell - $74.90. micheonline.com

Claudia Lambskin Moto Jacket - $490 (619) 435-1890 joseluisrocha.com

Elyse Walker Lambskin Leather Pant - $1350.

Elysewalker.com Maison Martin Margiela Double Montage Leather Booties in Black - $990. maisonmartinmargiela.com

Heet Omega Antique Gold in Black Suede - $190 shopheet.com

Racer AG Brown Lizardskin - $170.00 shopheet.com

facebook.com/FINEmagazines | FINEsd.com

43

HOME & STYLE | R E A L E STATE

DEL MAR: SAN DIEGO’S BEAUTIFUL PLAYGROUND

BY MELISSA PORTER

W

ith scenery straight off a postcard, the City of Del Mar lives up to its reputation as a beachside paradise. Home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches and a rich historic background, Del Mar is a charming community with some amazing attractions.

The City of Del Mar has much to offer residents, but the beaches definitely take center stage. With over 2 miles of spectacular coastline, Del Mar offers some of the best running, fishing, and surfing around.

Del Mar’s 15th Street Beach ranked fourth on Time Magazine’s “100 Greatest Beaches in the World.” It’s the home of well-known Powerhouse and Seagrove Parks, providing plenty of kid-friendly areas with swings, slides and jungle gyms.

North Beach, also known as Dog Beach, is popular with dogowners as it’s the ideal place to spend time with their furry, fourlegged friends. While other Del Mar beaches are only open to dogs nine months out of the year, Dog Beach is open year-round.

Del Mar also has the only beaches in the county that offer wheelchair access as well as sand-ready wheelchair rentals.

But this colorful seaside oasis has more to offer than just beautiful beaches and outstanding scenery. Del Mar is also home to the world-famous Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, which hosts seasonal horse racing every year at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.

Since the track opened in 1937, crowds have literally flooded the 44,000-seat venue to catch the intense summer racing season, annual competitions like Opening Day Hat Contest, and booming Friday night concerts. Families flock to the fairgrounds during the weekends to attend the traditional Family Weekends,

44

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

where children gather in the infield for games, face painting, obstacle courses and pony rides every Saturday and Sunday.

Speaking of the Del Mar Fairgrounds, the annual San Diego County Fair ushers in more than a million visitors each year. Originally an agricultural fair organized by San Diego residents in 1880, the event was moved permanently to Del Mar in 1936. It features rides, games, excellent food, a number of impressive exhibits (geological, floral, woodworking) and traditional petting zoos.

When it comes to shopping, Del Mar proudly presents the historical Del Mar Village, which dates all the way back to the 1880s. Located between 9th and 15th Street, Del Mar Village has over 60 shops and 25 restaurants, with a variety of markets and boutiques that offer everything from upscale clothing to original, locally-crafted artwork. The community also promotes a nonprofit farmers market scene, drawing in residents and visitors from all over the county with fresh, organic and pesticidefree fruits, vegetables and fine meats.

Finally, Del Mar is also home to the Del Mar Union School District, comprised of eight excellent K-6 schools, as well as the San Diegueto Union High School District, which serves the community with four middle schools and four high schools, including Torrey Pines High School, which was ranked on Newsweek’s 100 best high schools in the nation.

Overall, the city of Del Mar is in a class of its own. The numerous attractions, beautiful scenery and tight-knit communities make Del Mar a premiere spot in southern California. With so much to offer, Del Mar remains a top-choice for visitors, thrill-seekers and homeowners alike.

HOME OF THE 14-DAY CLOSE GUARANTEE*

HELP YOUR CLIENTS ACHIEVE THE NEW AMERICAN DREAM

CALL OUR LOCAL BRANCH OFFICE LA JOLLA & ENCINITAS

KEVIN HALL

(858)216-4694

Branch Manager La Jolla and Encinitas NMLS# 410316

LA JOLLA

ENCINITAS

MISSION VALLEY

9191 Towne Centre Dr., Ste. 340, San Diego, CA 92122

662 Encinitas Blvd., Ste. 201, Encinitas, CA 92024

2365 Northside Dr., Ste. 150, San Diego, CA 92108

*14 business day guarantee only applies to purchase transactions. This guarantee does not apply to Reverse Mortgages, FHA 203k, loans that require prior approval from an investor, brokered loans, or loans with a 2nd td. The guarantee does not apply if events occur beyond the control of NAF, including but not limited to; appraised value, escrow or title delays, 2nd lien holder approval, short sale approval, or lender conditions that cannot be met by any party. The 14 day trigger begins when your initial application package is complete and you have authorized credit card payment for your appraisal. If NAF fails to perform otherwise, a credit of $250 will be applied toward closing costs. Licensed by the California Department of Business Oversight under the Residential Mortgage Lending Act License #4131117. NMLS ID#6606. Š New American Funding. New American and New American Funding are registered trademarks of Broker Solutions, DBA New American Funding. All Rights Reserved. 9/2014

“Let Engel & Völkers help you grow your business and your real estate career.”

If you are talented in real estate sales, a skilled negotiator and success driven, we want you on

board as a real estate sales agent. Engel & Völkers is a truly international real estate firm with

over 600 inter-connected shops around the world. For more than 30 years Engel & Völkers has been a select provider of high-end luxury real estate services worldwide. Of course, this begins with selecting only the best agents in the industry to represent our brand. For those agents who

are selected we provide an array of high quality business services, marketing programs and tools,

cutting edge mobile services, social and web technologies, as well as access to our company

owned Academy. If you think you qualify and wish to benefit from a true luxury and international brand please contact Mike Hannon, Broker/Licensed Partner for a confidential meeting.

“Remember there are only so many seats in First Class.”

Each brokerage independently owned and operated

Mike Hannon 858.481.1500 michael.hannon@evusa.com sandiegoranchcoast.evusa.com

FINE MAGAZINE

Luxury Home SECTION

FINE Magazine is proud to present our Luxury Homes Section, complete with a vast array of spectacular properties from all across San Diego County. Within the folds of these next pages, we’ve collected some of the best real estate agents in the area, all ready and willing to lead you to your perfect new home. We love San Diego’s pristine environment, its diverse communities, and the unique culture that makes San Diego a hub for people from all over the world. We hope you’ll find the perfect home that fits your needs, and we’re glad that we could lead you to it.

facebook.com/FINEmagazines | FINEsd.com

47

Property Focused, Client-Driven Luxury Marketing...

Leaders in Selling the Extraordinary!

Contact us if you’re thinking of selling

Expansive Private Sanctuary $2,695,000. Approx. 8,194sf + 1,087esf guest house on 1.05 acre.

Custom Contemporary $2,695,000.

Approx. 6,451 sq.ft. on 1.27 acres

Timeless California Classic $1,399,000-$1,499,000.

Approx. 3,900 sf on 1.05 acre

For detailed information on these properties visit

www.SdSellsSanDiego.com SUE & GINA DE LEGGE SUE: 760-207-7749 sdelegge@gmail.com Cal BRE#01304408

GINA: 760-579-8108

ginadelegge@gmail.com Cal BRE#01746528

Contact us for a private showing

Engel & Völkers Solana Beach

678 S. Cedros Ave. - Solana Beach $1,399,000 Cathy Worster 858.395.3622 3 bed - 2 bath - 1,812 sf - 6,900 sf lot

Spring Bay - Virgin Islands $33,800,000 Renee Vento 760.815.2907 10 bedroom - 11 bath - 10,231 sf - 60+ acre lot

1225 Kelly St. - Oceanside $779,000 Trevor Smith 858.539.9999 3 bed - 2 bath - 1,634 sf - 7,000 sf lot

1969 Swallow Ln. - Carlsbad $449,000 Dina Wolcott 805.551.5595 2 bed - 2 bath - 1,130 sf

4788 Mayflower Way - Oceanside $338,950.00 Kathy Hannon 858.342.9975 3 bed - 2 bath - 1,290 sqft

505 S. Pacific Ave. - Solana Beach $5,250,000 Kathy & Michael Hannon 858.342.9975 3 bed - 4 baths - 2,200 sf - 5,500 sf lot

715 Toulon Court W. - Mission Beach $1,395,000 Kathy & Michael Hannon 858.342.9975 3 bed - 3 bath - 1,343sf

777 Panorama Rd - Palm Springs $1,575,000 Quentin Smith 858.705.1500 4 bedroom - 6 bath - 4,475 sf - 17,860 sf lot

6911 Alvarado Rd. #18 - San Diego $353,500 Jim Erkenbeck 858.344.1856 3 bedroom - 2 bath - 976 sq ft

©2011 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Engel & Völkers and its independent franchises are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair housing Act. Each property shop is independently owned and operated.

All information provided is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. If your property is currently represented by a real estate broker this is not an attempt to solicit your listing.

Solana Beach - Engel & Völkers Ranch Coast - License of Master License Company 444 South Cedros - Suite 444 - Solana Beach - CA 92075 - USA - 858.481.1500 www.sandiegoranchcoast.evusa.com - Real Estate Brokerage

[ADVERTORIAL]

Your home should be re advertised he instead of me sharing my ents! accomplishm

SAN PASQUAL - ESCONDIDO - SOLD CARLSBAD - SOLD

WHO ARE YOU GOING TO CALL?

ESTATEMAN4U Luxury real estate is all about experience

C

DEL MAR - SOLD

atering to the Luxury Real Estate Market has been the focus of Michael Citrin’s career, which spans 30 years with over 1,050 homes sold to date.

Towns of specialty include the San Diego coastline from

Del Mar to Carlsbad, Citrin having lived in and enjoyed each of thaese communities personally. Also a matter of great expertise for Citrin is his knowledge of the Covenant of Rancho Santa Fe (he is a former resident

CARMEL VALLEY - SOLD

with an intimate knowledge of the RSF Trail System), plus all surrounding RSF communities and select neighborhoods of Escondido.

Blending lifestyle with views and client personality allows Citrin to target the market and seek out buyers for high end properties. Networking in both social and professional circles and keen listening skills are Michael’s best traits. Every home has special characteristics and presents those elements in a fashion designed to speak to the listener that comes with

RIMROCK - ESCONDIDO - SOLD

Michael Citrin’s marketing. Citrin is also fluent in Spanish and is capable of presenting a fine property to clients from both sides of the border. In an economy with a global flow of wealth, Southern California is at the heart of it all for those looking for excellence in a living experience.

After all, he is the ESTATEMAN 4 U, but doesn’t wear a cape! Contact him at EstateMan4U@gmail.com or just pick up the phone and text or call 858-688-6277, you’ll be glad you did!

CA BRE#0936083

Let’s dis c getting uss property your prior to ready bri it on the nging mark for sale. et

RIMROCK - ESCONDIDO - SOLD

DANIELLE SHORT & ASSOCIATES Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Top 1% Internationally Consistent Top Agent Coldwell Banker Rancho Santa Fe

Wishing You a Happy Holiday Season...

15583 Rising River Place S. Del Sur

7463 Collins Ranch Terrace Carmel Valley

4 bedroom, 4.5 bath home in gated Avaron offers 1st floor master, inviting center courtyard, bonus room & outdoor entertaining with pool, BBQ area & loggia. The finest quality finishes include travertine flooring, granite slab kitchen counters, stainless appliances and built in wood cabinetry. Designed for the alfresco lifestyle with inviting center courtyard with fireplace which offers delightful indoor-outdoor spaces to enjoy.

Offered at $1,379,000

Lavishly upgraded 5+ br, 3953esf executive home on one of largest lots in the gated community of Collins Ranch.Exquisite appointments throughout include stone flooring, wine cellar, volume ceilings and wrought iron accents.

Lush landscaped resort-style backyard. Pool, fire pit, waterfall, loggia, BBQ & putting green!

Offered at $1,395,900

Rancho Cielo Lot 21 Rancho Santa Fe

1905 Leucadia Scenic Ct. Leucadia

Prime Rancho Santa Fe Covenant land. Private, elevated with southern and eastern views. 3.02 acres, level and gentle slope. Sited on a private street at the end of the cul-de-sac. Possibility of horses allowed with homeowner association approval. Covenant HOA fees apply. Build your dream estate home!

Offered at $1,255,000

Ocean and lagoon views highlight this quintessential Leucadia home. 4 bedrooms, 3 bath, approx.2862sf. Nearly 1/2 acre lot features mature fruit trees and room to roam! Celestory windows, French doors, skylights and unique architectural amenities create a one of a kind home. New stainless steel refrigerator, range/ cooktop and dishwasher, newly carpeted, fresh paint. An indoor laundry room, attached 2 car garage, detached storage area and private fenced yard.

Offered at $1,199,999

Visit www.CoastalSanDiegoHomes4Sale.com Your North County Coastal Real Estate Agent

619-708-1500

dshort@coldwellbanker.com

Cal BRE: 01199071

www.DanielleShort.com

SAN ELIJO HILLS

OLD CREEK RANCH

1681 VENICE AVENUE

2624 RAWHIDE LANE, OLD CREEK RANCH Located in the beautiful new Magnolia Community at Old Creek Ranch this highly upgraded town home offers 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathroom, engineered hardwood floors, granite kitchen counters & stainless steel appliances. The manicured landscaping welcomes you as you make your way to your move in ready home. This welcoming community features a large pool with a kiddie pool and spa/hot tub to relax and enjoy while entertaining family and friends with a BBQ area, fire pit and playground!

OFFERED AT $395,000

Prime location with panoramic ocean views in the gated community of Azure at San Elijo Hills. This spacious & luxurious home boasts an open modern floor plan, 2 bonus rooms, gorgeous hardwood flooring, stainless steel appliances, gourmet kitchen with granite counters & a solar system for the pool and home that has been completely PAID for! Lush tropical landscape, resort-style pool & spa with cascading waterfalls, fire-pit & custom BBQ with palapa make this an entertainer’s dream!

OFFERED AT $999,900

OCEANSIDE

FAMILY FRIENDLY

2751 COLLEGE BLVD

1596 MARTINGALE, CARLSBAD Located in the Aviara neighborhood of the Cantamar Community, this home offers four bedrooms plus loft and approximately 3,400 SF of living space. The residence is equipped with high-end finishes and luxurious amenities including beautiful tile floors, plantation shutters, and built in cabinetry in the family room. With a separate formal dining room with volume ceilings, this home makes an appealing first impression.

OFFERED AT $899,900

This affordable twin home in Oceanside features over 1,048 sqft with 2 bedrooms & 1 full bathroom. Floor plan is very open, light & bright. Newer flooring, newer dual pane windows, newer canned LED lighting & surround sound throughout the house with audio system in the closet. Kitchen features newer stainless steel appliances & stained kitchen cabinets. 2 car attached garage with low maintenance back yard, No HOA and NO Mello Roos. This is an opportunity you don’t want to miss! Bring us an offer today!

OFFERED BETWEEN $275,000 - $299,000

JACOBO REALTY GROUP | #01355906 info@jacoborealty.com www.jacoborealtygroup.com | 760-632-8900

visit visitususatatSolutionsRealEstate.com SolutionsRealEstate.com

For Forinformation informationregarding regardingjoining joiningour ourteam teamgogototoSolutionsRealEstate.com SolutionsRealEstate.com Contact ContactMark MarkSchultz SchultzManaging ManagingBroker Brokerand andVice VicePresident PresidentofofSolutions SolutionsReal RealEstate EstateCalBRE CalBRE# #01877234 01877234 760-444-3055 760-444-3055XX1004 1004/ /Solutionsrebroker@gmail.com Solutionsrebroker@gmail.com 2055 2055Corte CorteDel DelNogal, Nogal,Carlsbad, Carlsbad,CA CA92011 92011and and770 770Rancho RanchoSanta SantaFeFeRd, Rd,Encinitas EncinitasCA CA92024 92024 CACA BRE BRE 01877234 01877234

FLIPINISTA, YOUR BFF (BEST FLIP FLOP)® Where beauty and comfort meet and glamour knows no bounds . Flipinista® The bespoke flip flop. Each pair meticulously handcrafted. www.Flipinista.com for information. $128

CHARISMA BY CHRISTY Charisma by Christy lipplumping treatment with powerhouse lip response technology. Lips 155% fuller, 155% more hydrated and 500% less line. Results guaranteed. $40.00 (760) 214-1382

SATORI DESIGNS Satori Designs presents an eclectic collection of women’s clothing and accessories from around the world. These expressive pieces are for “women who love the dance of life.” satori-designs.com

FINE MAGAZINE 2 0 1 4 G I F T G U I D E MICHAEL SEEWALD GALLERIES IN DEL MAR Professional photography classes by Master Photographer Michael Seewald. Classes are $695 and include a Seewald original photo of choice valued at $750.

Great for beginners, intermediate, or advanced photographers.

SeeWald.com

RANCHO SANTA FE JEWELERS Antique platinum sapphire diamond ring. Diamond CTW: 1.86.

Ranchosantafejewelers.com $18,000

54

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

PEACHES EN REGALIA Graceland Bag by Mary Frances Feel the spirit of Elvis as you carry this amazing patent leather guitar-shaped handbag. This bag is a sure conversation starter and one that begs to have a rock n’ roll good time! peachesenregalia.com $295

SALON LG For the special holiday sale we are offering $50 off of the “halo” 100% human hair extension.

(858) 344-7865

ROSALINE JEWELRY Fine sterling silver, gems, and designer’s jewelry that makes you unforgettable.

10% off for FINE readers. Code : FINE10 rosalinejewelry.com OLIVETTI’S Viola Olio Extra Virgine di Oliva is a Gold Medal Award Winner at the Copenhagen International Olive Oil Awards, 2014 and Olivetti’s is very proud to carry these olive oils. olivettioilandvinegar.com

MOPHIE SPACE PACK The Mophie Space Pack is the world's first rechargeable battery case with local built-in storage. Made for iPhone 5 & iPhone 5s, you can get up to 64GB additional storage and 100% additional battery life. Download the Space app to manage and organize storage, share files, and more. mophie.com Price: $149.95

DEL MAR ART GALLERY Original artwork of all shapes and sizes. Paintings, Photographs, Pottery, Jewelry, etc. dmacgallery.com Prices range from $4.00 - $4000.00 and up.

SHUMWAY Purchase $150 worth of SkinCeuticals and receive a mini complimentary Hydrating Facial.

Shumwaymd.com

CAMILLE Fabulous Limited Edition jeweled faux fur headbands

by Camille in white or black faux fur with an assortment of silver, gold, crystal & rhinestone appliqués.

Ooh La La Boutiques in Del Mar & Carlsbad.

Del Mar (858) 523-1896 Starting at $40 and up. facebook.com/FINEmagazines | FINEsd.com

55

56

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

Odette Sugerman

PHOTOGRAPHED BY ON LOCATION AT THE DEL MAR COUNTRY CLUB

Bejeweled THE

S

PERFORMED BY MUSICIAN

Lena Zawaideh

Y

M

P

H

O

N

Y

DIRECTED BY

Heather Winfield

facebook.com/FINEmagazines | FINEsd.com

57

L

ena is wearing a hat designed by Diana Cavagnaro, $600, available at Designer Millinery, (619) 239-4287.

She is also wearing a bangle bracelet with 8 ct, 52 point diamonds and 18 kt gold, $37,800, and hoop earrings with 10 ct, 72 point diamonds and 18 kt gold, $12,600, both available at Daniel Jewelry and Gifts.(858) 454-8001

58

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

L

ena is wearing a feathered boa, $175, available at Lux Ave Boutique. (760) 743-3324 She is also wearing a 14 ct diamond, 18 kt gold bracelet, $28,000; a 4 ct diamond ring, $5,500; a 6 ct, 31 point diamond bangle, $5,500; and 12 ct diamond earrings, $14,000, all available at Daniel Jewelry and Gifts. (858) 454-8001 Necklace no longer available, but a similar style with 11 ct 53 point diamonds and 14 kt gold is available at Daniel Jewelry and Gifts. (858)454-8001 facebook.com/FINEmagazines | FINEsd.com

59

L

ena is wearing a Jovani dress, $875, available at Lux Ave Boutique. (760) 743-3324 She is also wearing a dome-shaped ring featuring a 11.5 mm golden South Seas Pearl and 87 4.61 ct diamonds, $32,350; a flexible, lacepatterned bracelet featuring 325 14.52 ct diamonds set in 18 kt yellow gold, $68,450; and 18 kt gold ear clips with 102 10.14 ct diamonds, $42,575, all available at The Collector Fine Jewelry. (760) 728-9121

60

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

facebook.com/FINEmagazines | FINEsd.com

61

“The amount of fun you’ll have sitting down with the family playing Mario Kart 8 can’t be measured.”

Nintendo Wii U

AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT THE TOP THREE NEXT-GEN GAMING CONSOLES.

t’s that time of year again. The holiday season is coming up and you’re thinking about buying one of the three newest consoles on the market. This is never an easy decision.

Whether the console is for you, a significant other, or a loved one, you have a big choice to make. But the good news is, we have the answers you are looking for.

Let’s start with the system that has been out the longest: the Nintendo Wii U. This is Nintendo’s follow-up console to their ever-popular motion-based console, the Nintendo Wii. This one is easily the least popular of the three, but it is also the cheapest as well, coming in at only $299.99. The Wii U is a different kind of console than the Playstation 4 or the Xbox One, as it is a much more family-friendly choice. Nintendo has always been known for their child-like charm that everyone can enjoy, like a good Pixar movie. The best games on the Wii U are meant to be enjoyed with friends and family in the same room playing along with you. It is by no means the most powerful console or the most fully featured, and there is a lot less focus on online play, but that’s okay. There are amazingly charming games here that you just can’t get anywhere else, such as Super Mario 3D World,

62

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

Mario Kart 8, and Pikmin 3.

These three games are must-haves for this console, and all of them can be played with multiple people. Super Mario 3D World is a platformer involving everyone’s favorite plumber, Mario. The difference in this game from previous Mario games is that this is the first 3D Mario that can be completely played with up to four people. Then there’s Mario Kart 8: a wonderfully fast-paced and frantic kart racing game that takes everything the series has done right and does it better. The amount of fun you’ll have sitting down with the family playing Mario Kart 8 can’t be measured - it’s a blast. Last we have Pikmin 3, an adorable game about controlling a group of alien lifeforms to solve various puzzles and feed a starving ship crew. As with the previous two games mentioned, this one also has a multiplayer mode which is quite fun.

These are just a few of the best games currently out now, and with Nintendo’s all-star fighting game, Super Smash Bros., coming out later this year, you will have plenty to play. The downside to this console is that a lot of the more “adult” games are not here. You won’t find Call of Duty or Battlefield on this console, but there is still tons of G-rated fun to be had.

“The Xbox One is for much more than gaming, it is an entire multimedia controller.”

Microsoft’s Xbox One Next up, we have the Xbox One, which is Microsoft’s third and most fully-featured console available. The Xbox One is for much more than gaming, it is an entire multimedia controller.

This system aims to be the center of your living room with the ability to plug your cable box, speakers, and other devices directly into it. Why is this something you want? Well, packed in with the Xbox One is a device called Kinect. The Kinect is a motion-sensor camera with voice recognition that allows for a ton of amazing features, one of which is the ability to control your cable through voice commands. The Kinect allows you to change the channel, pause, fast forward, or rewind anything you’re watching (assuming you have DVR) just by telling it to do so. But that’s not the only thing you can do with your voice; you can also turn the console on and navigate everything on the Xbox One without ever having to pick up a controller. The Xbox One also has an ability called “Snap” which allows you to do two things at once. Want to play Call of Duty while the big football game is on? Just say “Xbox Snap Television” while you’re playing and you can. It’s that simple. Microsoft’s newest console also allows you to organize all your stuff from Hulu, Amazon Instant Video, your cable, and more into one easy-touse guide called “Oneguide.” The only problem with the Xbox One is that if you do decide to use a controller to navigate, you’re going to find an interface that doesn’t have the most intuitive design, and it takes a little getting used to.

While the Xbox One may want to be the ultimate media controller, it is still very much a gaming machine. The biggest games are all here from Call of Duty to Battlefield to Assassin’s Creed. But is it necessarily the best way to play these games?

It comes down to preference between the Xbox One and Playstation 4, but in general, these games tend to have a higher resolution on Sony’s console.

When it comes to exclusive games only available on the Xbox One, Microsoft doesn’t quite have the first-party lineup that Sony and Nintendo have. This isn’t to say they don’t have many exclusive games, they just tend to work with other developers instead of owning different studios. The Xbox One has some great games on it considering it has only been out a year, though a lot of the best tend to be focused on shooting games.

Titanfall is Microsoft’s current big exclusive game for the console.

This online shooter puts you in the middle of big battles between giant robotic suits and humans. It’s frantic, intense, and awesome.

The other big new shooter this year is Destiny, and it comes from the team that brought you Halo. Destiny is a completely online-only shooter focused on creating a character and collecting different weapons and armor for said character. The entire game can be played cooperatively, and it also has an amazing competitive mode. For the racing fans, Microsoft also has an incredibly realistic racing game called Forza Motorsports 5. This game allows you to race all the cars of your dreams on all the tracks you ever wanted with amazing detail. But new games are always being released.

This year we still have Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, Sunset Overdrive, and a lot more to look forward to. This system will run you $500 for a bundle with a Kinect, and $400 for a Kinect-less bundle, but be sure to check out all of the fancy limited-edition consoles that Microsoft is releasing this holiday season. If you’re looking for a gaming console that will fulfill all your multimedia needs, The Xbox One is a great choice.

facebook.com/FINEmagazines | FINEsd.com

63

“One of the best features of this system is its sleek and easy to use interface.

It’s so simple to navigate that you will immediately pick up on it.”

Sony’s Playstation 4 Finally we have the Playstation 4, which is currently the most popular of the three consoles, breaking various sales records.

Sony’s latest console has a primary focus, and that is gaming.

If you are looking for cutting edge graphics and all the latest releases, the Playstation 4 is a hard option to argue with. The console may not be as feature-packed as the Xbox One or have the charming Nintendo games on it, but Sony has an excellent first-party lineup of their own.

One of the best features of this system is its sleek and easy to use interface. It’s so simple to navigate that you will immediately pick up on it. The Playstation 4 also has one of the most impressive features available in a console today: if you have a Playstation Vita (Sony’s newest handheld) you can link it to your console and play your Playstation 4 on your Vita from anywhere with a Wifi connection. It’s truly impressive to have the ability to play your next-gen console from hundreds of miles away while using your Playstation Vita.

Sony’s Playstation 4 really shines when it comes to games. Just like the Xbox One, it has all the biggest games like Battlefield and Call of Duty, but one thing that the Playstation 4 has that the Xbox One or Wii U does not is an amazing baseball game. If you or anyone who will be playing this console are baseball fans, this

64

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

console might be for you because of Sony’s exclusive baseball game, MLB: The Show, is easily the best around. In fact, it’s the only baseball game around anymore. The Xbox One or Wii U doesn’t currently even have a MLB game. Other sports games like Madden, FIFA, and NBA2k can all be found on both Xbox One and Playstation 4.

Sony’s got some great exclusives on this console as well like The Last of Us - a post-apocalyptic survival horror game with an amazing story and game play, and Infamous: Second Son an open-world action game where you can run around Seattle with super powers. These are some of the best games around.

Destiny is also here too with exclusive content you can only get on the Playstation 4. The console itself runs for a reasonable $400, and it’s a really great buy. If all you plan on doing with your console is playing video games, Sony’s latest may be the best direction for you.

All of these consoles have their pros and cons, but they are all amazing machines with the best games around. There isn’t a wrong choice to be made here, just the best choice that suits you or your loved one’s specific needs. The holidays are a fun time for gamers, and anyone who receives one of these consoles is sure to have a blast with it.

[advertorial]

Sweeten wealth ManageMent

Bu si n e s s R e t i R e m e n t P l a n s a n d Fa m i ly P l a n n i n g

Sweeten Wealth management is working to change the

Following the Air Force, Alan finished his Degree in Finance and

perception of financial planning by providing an alternative

entered the Independent Financial Planning community. While

to Wall Street. Finance is often viewed as secret information

completing investment and plan reviews for individuals his

or wide scale attempts to pick winners. As a CERTIFIED

attention to detail uncovered that many 401(k) plans had high

FINANCIAL PLANNER ™, Alan lifts the veil and narrows the

internal fees and rarely offered true global diversification. Alan

focus using financial science, rather than speculation, and helps

began to offer businesses retirement plans which emphasize a

identify for his clients the risks that are worth taking and the risks

low-cost and globally diversified fund selection.

that are not.

The Sweetens appreciate clients who see the value of working Alan Sweeten’s interest in what it takes to become successful

with a financial professional; that do not want to take on the

began at a young age. He would talk to anyone who would share

responsibility of researching and implementing their own

their story. While in the United States Air Force his training to

investment programs. Whether it’s a business that wants to

become an instrumentation and telemetry systems technician

provide retirement options for employees, or an individual

emphasized attention to detail. Early on he noticed that many

who’s curious about a common sense approach to long-term

of his fellow airmen were making poor choices when it came

investing, Sweeten Wealth Management is driven by helping

to online stock trading and investments. When Alan himself

you increase your assets and helping you pursue your goals

was approached by various insurance and financial advisors, he realized that their focus was product driven as opposed to goal driven. That was when Alan knew that he wanted to become a financial planner.

800-841-2796 Alan@Sweetenwm.com www.sweetenwm.com

Alan Sweeten, CFP® / Financial Planning / 2244 Faraday Ave. #90 / Carlsbad, CA 92008 Alan Sweeten is registered with securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC.

D I N I N G

WINE & DINE THE TASTE OF AU REVOIR

From France to California, Au Revoir offers the best of both worlds.

BY CAITLIN JOHNSON

Au Revoir offers a taste of French elegance in the heart of Hillcrest. The charming corner restaurant entices diners with its warm colors and inviting lighting. Sparkling glass chandeliers hang daintily from the ceiling, bouncing soft white light off of the tall mason jars placed on each table. The kitsch paintings and Eiffel Tower replicas are somewhat unnecessary, as the food itself is enough of a reminder of the bistro’s French influences. I was welcomed by manager Thomas Bardin, his warm greeting accentuated with a subtle yet genuine French accent. All of the servers at Au Revoir are

66

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

French, he told me, which adds to the authenticity.

“The idea in Hillcrest is to have affordable French cuisine for every day… to create a typical Parisian atmosphere,” Bardin said.

This idea is successfully played out in Au Revoir’s menu, which changes three times a year to suit the season. Lunch and dinner are served daily, and brunch is served on weekends. Bardin collaborates with the kitchen to create the menu and works with seven food and wine providers from Southern California all the way to France. (continued on page 68)

[ADVERTISEMENT]

LUNCH

&

DINNER

Rancho Santa Fe

BISTRO &Wine Shop

Classically Delicious.

The Rancho Santa Fe Bistro wishes you a Happy Holiday Season. Located on Paseo Delicias, the owner of the Bistro - Mozy Jahanguiri - has uniquely decorated the street with beautiful plants and succulents to bring in the celebrations.

The Rancho Santa Fe Bistro is open seven days and six nights a week, excluding Sunday evenings. Lunch hours are from 11 am to 3 pm, while dinner is from 4 pm to 9 pm. Friday and Saturday nights have extended hours of 9:30 pm. They are open on Christmas Eve with a regular and a distinctive menu. They have special pricing for parties of six or more. If you are looking to throw a party for the holidays, the Bistro can serve your banquet of 10 to 75 guests.

The Bistro also has a wonderful fourcourse dinner for New Year’s Eve. They will be open on December 31 from 5 pm – 10:30

pm. At $75 per person, the exclusive menu begins with an appetizer of caprese or crab cakes, followed by your choice of a salad, corn chowder, or lentil soup. The entrées range from a savory duck breast with a sour cherry sauce, a grilled Norwegian salmon with a white wine lemon caper sauce, or a grass-fed sirloin with sautéed mushrooms, plus many more options to choose from.

All entrées come with seasonal vegetables

and basmati rice or potatoes. Don’t forget to leave room for dessert! Reservations are recommended for holiday evenings.

Don’t miss out on the most delicious way to bring in the New Year!

RANCHO SANTA FE BISTRO 6024 PASEO DELICIAS, SUITE C RANCHO SANTA FE, CA 92067 858.756.1221 RANCHOSANTAFEBISTRO.COM

WINE & DINE | DINING (continued from page 66)

“When people go to a French restaurant, they want that French experience,” he said. “The goal is to go fully French.”

And fully French you can be, if you so desire. The menu is what you’d expect from a French-themed restaurant. Salade du bistro and soupe du jour often preface a roasted duck breast with peaches and lavender or a rack of lamb with ratatouille. If you’re feeling particularly French or simply adventurous, order the expertly prepared escargot or sautéed frog legs. You can even practice your language skills by ordering in French.

My meal began with a traditional French onion soup. The dark beef consommé was laden with caramelized onions, their sweet flavor adding depth to the already rich broth. Perfectly browned gruyere topped the thick crouton and spilled tauntingly over the side of the bowl. Steam emanated from the dish with the first spoonful, releasing the beautiful aromas trapped beneath. I was in French onion soup heaven.

Reluctantly, I pulled myself from my reverie as I was greeted with the tantalizing scent of lavender. Au Revoir’s pommes frites à la lavande are quite possibly the best fried potatoes I’ve ever had, their thin cut allowing a crispier texture. The lavender was certainly not an afterthought, and easily works in concert with oregano, thyme and rosemary. These fries are tasty enough to be enjoyed without condiments, though for added magnificence I might recommend the restaurant’s made-from-scratch aioli as a dipping sauce.

Fries and onion soup aren’t typically enough for a meal, however. They can be fantastic precursors to any of the main dishes, which pair well with Au Revoir’s selection of delectable French imported wines and beers. I was served the pave de

68

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

saumon, a wild salmon filet accompanied by two deliciously fresh scallops, hearty fingerling potatoes and crispy broccolini.

The savory beurre blanc and creamy leek fondue is what ties this dish together. Bardin said the advantage of operating a French restaurant in California is the easy access to fresh, local seafood and vegetables. This was definitely apparent throughout the dish, from the melt-in-your-mouth scallops seared with just the right amount of seasoning to the flaky salmon that must have been plucked from the ocean not a day before.

Bardin said another goal is to bring in more local produce.

Though working with international suppliers is arguably crucial for a French menu, there are definitely benefits to buying local.

The bread supplied to the restaurant is also made fresh daily at a sister bakery by the same owner.

Another way Au Revoir pays homage to its French roots is by honoring traditional French holidays and events (last month the “Beaujoulais Noveau” dinner took place, featuring a threecourse meal that celebrated the first wine of the season). Special reservation-required wine dinners are held once a month when there are no local or international events, and they often feature guests knowledgeable in a certain industry to offer insight and conversation for diners.

The restaurant celebrated its fourth anniversary last month. I recently returned from a trip to Europe, and while I didn’t visit France, if Au Revoir is any indication of authentic French cuisine, I’ll gladly pack my bags and plan my next trip for Paris. Thankfully, San Diegans won’t have to as long as Au Revoir continues to bring a little bit of France to Southern California.

A Luxury Boutique where it’s all about you.

For Men & Women.

B

O

U

T

I

Q

U

E

The Centre (Home of Lexus), 1205 Auto Park Way, ste 203, Escondido, CA 92029 760 743 3324, Like us on facebook.com/luxave, luxaveboutique@gmail.com http://thecentreescondido.com/retailers/retail-collection/lux-ave/

WINE & DINE | R ECIPE

HEALTHY HOLIDAY APPLE CRISP No white flour, dairy, butter, or refined sugar.

R E C I PE A N D PH OTO G R A PH Y B Y M I S S Y P OW E R S

W

e’re all a little guilty of indulging in a little too much dessert or straying from our diets around the holidays. Here’s a great apple crisp recipe that captures the spirit of the season while still staying fresh and healthy.

Ingredients 4 cups of apples, peeled, cored and sliced thin 2 tbs quick cooking tapioca 2 tsp of lemon juice 1/4 cup pure maple syrup 1 tsp cinnamon Crisp 1 cup coconut flour 1 cup almond flour 1 tsp cinnamon ¼ cup slivered almonds 3 tbs coconut sugar 1 tsp ground cinnamon 4 tbs coconut oil 70

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

Prep: Preheat oven 350-degrees F. In a medium mixing bowl, combine apples, quick cooking tapioca, lemon juice, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Mix gently and pour into a 8” x 11” baking dish or pie pan.

In a small mixing bowl, combine ingredients for the “Crisp Topping” – (make sure coconut oil is in a solid state) mix with your hands until mixture

is crumbly. If it’s too dry, add a little more coconut oil.

Evenly sprinkle the Crisp Topping over the apples.

Bake about 50-60 minutes, or until apples are tender.

Cool for 45 minutes, serve warm or cool.

yanya morton coolhaus art gallery 345 north coast hwy 101, Solana beach, ca (619)572-7400 coolhausart.com holiday hours Monday-saturday 12:00-5:00

S O C I A L

S C E N E

ART & SOCIETY

LEONARD SIMPSON’S 10 BEST DRESSED AWARDS GALA PHOTOS BY JESSIE AGUAYO On November 13th, 2014, San Diego’s best dressed socialites gathered at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines Hotel to celebrate fashion. Guests walked down the red carpet and enjoyed cocktails, a glamorous silent and live auction, a gourmet dinner, and even a spectacular Broadway style show.

This year’s event benefitted Dress for Success San Diego, a non-profit that helps disadvantaged women build their careers by providing them with professional attire and a network of contacts for support and career assistance.

72

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

you’ll have the time of your life.

MURDER FOR TWO A NEW MUSICAL COMEDY

Murder for Two

Book and Music by Joe Kinosian Book and Lyrics by Kellen Blair Directed by Scott Schwartz

Multi-millionaire Arthur Whitney has been murdered at his own birthday party, and his killer could be any one of the guests.

But this is no ordinary murder mystery. The entire world of this hilarious musical is brought to life by two incredible performers: one plays the detective, the other plays all 10 suspects, and both play the piano! Murder for Two is an irrepressibly wacky tour-deforce musical that NY1 dubbed “a must-see 90-minute jolt of caffeinated creativity!”

January 24 - March 1, 2015

(619) 23-GLOBE (234-5623) www.TheOldGlobe.org

ART & SOCIETY | S OC I A L SC E N E

BUBBLE UP! GALA PHOTOS BY DENNIS R. WOOD The Ocean Discovery Institute’s students and benefactors gathered together at the Omni La Costa Resort and Spa on Saturday, September 6 for the annual Bubble Up! gala. Nearly 300 guests came together to support the Institute, raising over $319,000 for its tuition-free science and conservation programs.

With the help of these new funds, the Ocean Discovery Institute will now be able to reach 20,000 students in the underserved community of City Heights. (continued on page 76)

Nutcracker The

2014-2015 Season

At Spreckels Theatre With the City Ballet Orchestra

12 Performances ~ December 12-24 Saturday Night Champagne On-stage Reception Lunch with Sugar Plum Fairy prior to each Saturday Matinee

t "Bes er " ck o a r c t Nu n Dieg in Sa mmy To wards eA Danc

Special Messiah Sing-Along with City Ballet Orchestra and Chorus Tuesday, December 16 at 7:30pm All seats: $25

Photo: Chelsea Penyak

Tickets: $29 - $79

Follow us on

Call: 858-272-8663

or Order Online www.cityballet.org

ART & SOCIETY | S OC I A L SC E N E (continued from page 74)

FACE FOUNDATION’S 2ND INVITATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT PHOTOS BY GWENDOLYN TUNDERMANN PHOTOGRAPHY The second annual invitational golf tournament benefitting the FACE Foundation took place at the Lomas Santa Fe Country Club on November 4th, 2014. With their furry, four-legged companions by their sides, pros and casual golfers alike gathered on the course to raise funds for local pets. After the tournament, which featured such famous golfers as Corey Pavin and Jeff Sluman, raised an astounding $110,000 to assist in life-saving veterinary care for our beloved pets via the FACE Foundation. (continued on page 78)

San Diego Symphony Orchestra 2 0 14 - 15

December Sched ule Jacobs Masterworks

QUINT PLAYS KHACHATURIAN

Fri & Sat, Dec. 5 & 6, 8pm Sun, Dec. 7, 2pm Jahja Ling, conductor; Philippe Quint, violin San Diego Master Chorale

Chamber Music Series

PHILIPPE QUINT Tue, Dec. 9, 7:30pm Philippe Quint, violin

Jacobs Masterworks

BACH AND RACHMANINOFF

Fri & Sat, Dec. 12 & 13, 8pm Sun, Dec. 14, 2pm Jahja Ling, conductor; Gil Shaham, violin

City Lights

Holiday Pops

with Eileen Ivers

A Celtic Celebration

Fri & Sat, Dec. 19 & 20, 8pm Non-Subscription concerts: Sat, Dec. 20, 2pm Sun, Dec. 21, 7:30pm Family Festival Series

HOLIDAY POPS Sun, Dec. 21, 2pm

Experience Excellence.

Double your gift through the 2014 Maestro Challenge! 1 donation = 2 donations Online: sandiegosymphony.com/donations • Phone: 619.615.3908 A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SERIES SPONSORS:

Financial support is provided by the City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture.

ALL SINGLE TICKET FULL PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE UP UNTIL SHOWTIME WITHOUT ANY GIVEN NOTICE. All artists, programs, dates and times subject to change. All sales final, no refunds.

CALL 619.235.0804 or VISIT sandiegosymphony.com

ART & SOCIETY | S OC I A L SC E N E (continued from page 76)

SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY OPUS GALA PHOTOS BY GATES PHOTOGRAPHY

The annual San Diego Opus Gala unfolded on the 25th of October, 2014. The Gala, which began with a VIP cocktail reception and dinner at The University Club, centered around the symphony’s performance of music by Bernstein, Bizet, and Rachmaninoff. The concert was conducted by Jahja Ling and featured guest artist Lola Astanova on piano. The melodious concert was followed by an after-party at The University Club which included a hosted bar, live entertainment and dancing late into the night.

LOST & FOUND SOLO ART EXHIBIT & FASHION SHOW PHOTOS BY HEATHER WINFIELD Santos struck a chord at his largest solo show to date: “Lost and Found.” Through his “Maya Pop” imagery that transformed an entire wall in the True Honor Clothing’s space into an expansive autobiographical mural. This transglobal artist put Carlsbad on the map with the most exciting and groundbreaking mural ever seen.

78

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

BANK OF MANHATTAN OPENING PARTY PHOTOS BY HEATHER WINFIELD

Bank of Manhattan, a national banking giant, threw a celebration for the start of the Del Mar Racetrack’s extended “Bing Crosby” season.

The party took place at their new office located in Del Mar. It’s the Bank of Manhattan’s latest expansion here in San Diego County.

ART & SOCIETY | PE R FOR M I NG A RT S

25 YEARS OF IMAGINATIVE DANCE Q&A with San Diego Ballet’s Javier Velasco.

BY ERICA MINER

C

horeographer and San Diego Ballet Artistic Director, Javier Velasco, had a vision back in 1991: to present quality classical dance with imagination, verve, and excitement. Velasco has fulfilled that mission, along with SDB co-founder Robin Sherertz-Morgan. This season the company, having expanded from two to four productions per year, presents a slate of diverse, sure-to-please productions and Velasco’s enthusiasm is hard to top.

about this art form, but also to excite them. Many people see it as something that isn’t very tangible or approachable. Once they come to a ballet performance, they understand it. A lot of times, women drag their husbands to the shows, and the husbands enjoy it as much as if not more than the wives. There’s also a misconception that we’re a school. There’s a school associated with us, but a lot of times in people’s minds they have this conception that ballet is something kids do.

EM: Please tell me about your background. When did you become artistic director of SD Ballet?

JV: I was born in Texas and moved to Chula Vista a month after I was born, so I’m an “almost” San Diego native. I actually started as a musical theatre dancer, but I had wonderful teachers who insisted from the beginning that we take all forms of dance; folk dance, ballet, jazz, and tap, so we were prepared for anything. I felt comfortable in all forms of dance. I got a little career going for myself as a choreographer of musicals in San Diego, and also had success teaching. That’s where I met Robin Morgan, who had been with the original San Diego Ballet and studied at the School of American Ballet in New York under George Balanchine.

Together we started the new San Diego Ballet about 25 years ago and worked as co-directors, both artistic and administrative.

Over the years, I took on more of the artistic director role because I enjoy choreography so much and working with dancers so much - it seemed natural. I’ve been with the company since its inception and artistically guiding it from the beginning.

EM: Does it have something to do with the fact that dancers tend to be very young, with a fairly short career span?

JV: Where I started, we called even twelve-year-olds ladies and gentlemen. So I come from a place of respecting children behaving in a way that projects more maturity. We are, as human beings, living longer, able to do things longer, maintaining youthful appearances longer. The range of dancers’ careers has expanded, but they’re also doing difficult things with their bodies. Using their body for their job, vocation and livelihood, it does wear and tear.

It’s something that has a limited amount of time. But it doesn’t mean that dance can’t still be a part of your life.

EM: Now you’re celebrating a landmark anniversary.

Congratulations, that’s fantastic.

JV: Thank you. Every year seems to go by so quickly. So many dancers have come through the company, stayed with us or gone on to other places. It’s great seeing them grow. The company has always hired professional dancers - we’ve had dancers from Australia, Russia, Mexico, Japan and Hungary. Part of the joy and challenge of the ballet company is not just to train the public

80

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

EM: Tell me more about this exciting season coming up. Are there any highlights you wanted to point out about the four productions you’re doing? I’d love to know how you created the collaboration with Azerbaijan for the premiere of “Seven Beauties.”

JV: Dr. Randall Tweed of Grossmont College had an interest in Azerbaijan. He had performed a suite of dances from a ballet originally composed and presented in Azerbaijan in 1952, based on a twelfth-century poem by a famous Azerbaijani poet, which is very important to both the Turkish and Azerbaijani communities.

He started a conversation two years ago with the Azerbaijan Ministry in Los Angeles, who were very interested in exposing people in America and Southern California to Azerbaijani culture, about doing the full-length ballet and approached me about creating it. The Ministry is underwriting the whole production so the San Diego community can go see it for free. It worked really

well for us as a pre-season opener for our 25 anniversary. The Grossmont Symphony is playing, and it will be at the Civic Theatre, a new venue for us. It’s giving lots of dancers an opportunity to perform a part they normally wouldn’t, and also gives the children in the school associated with us a chance to get on stage.

EM: Aside from other exciting productions, “Synergy,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” and “Carnival of the Animals,” you’re doing “Nutcracker” as well?

JV: We’re doing it at Symphony Hall this year, after Christmas, like we did in our first season.

EM: I noticed you’re using dancers from all over the world.

JV: We always have, and local people, as well. In our “Nutcracker” we like casting children in children’s roles, because a lot of times it’s a young dancer’s first time on stage in a professional or semi-professional capacity, where people who aren’t their parents come to see them.

It’s very inter-generational. We have very young children playing parts suitable for them, on stage with professional dancers and older people who used to be dancers playing parts like grandparents.

E U V E R Y A D I L HO NOVEMBE R 28 – DEC EMBER 21

EM: It’s a great introduction to ballet, but also, doesn’t a kid also identify more with it when there are children on stage?

JV: Yes. It’s a wonderful way for young people to go in and see other young people on stage. If Clara’s a child, you can project yourself there, and as an adult you can go, “Oh, yes, I remember when I was that age.”

EM: Anything else you wanted to mention before we wrap up?

JV: It’s going to be a really interesting, exciting season for us, which will speak to all of the San Diego community.

It highlights all the things we do: large, classical threeact ballet, family friendly stuff, but also things geared to adults, that if a couple wants to go out for a night out, will make them think a little more. This season is a great reflection of the variety of work we do.

EM: I really admire what you’re doing. It was a pleasure speaking with you.

JV: Thank you so much. www.sandiegoballet.org

THE PERFECT ANTIDOTE TO THE ANNUAL OFFICE PARTY This hilarious new holiday production captures all the magic, mystery and mayhem of the season with original songs, sketches and improv.

MUS

OS L C T

MUSIC BY

ALAN MENKEN LYRICS BY

STEPHEN SCHWARTZ

E

. 14 C E D

!

BOOK BY

PETER PARNELL DIRECTED BY

SCOTT SCHWARTZ

BASED ON THE NOVEL BY VICTOR HUGO

NOW

PLA YI

NG!

PRODUCED BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WITH DISNEY THEATRICAL PRODUCTIONS

THESE SHOWS WILL SELL OUT! Buy Your Tickets Today: LaJollaPlayhouse.org

ART & SOCIETY | PE R FOR M I NG A RT S

FINISHING STRONG

San Diego’s performing arts scene blossoms as the year comes to a close.

BY BOB MOREY

I

t’s been six months since we started this column. This space has allowed us to offer an update of what is going on in the performing arts community. It has also spun off interviews with a diverse range of very talented people, relaying what it takes to stage these productions for you.

Looking forward to what we have coming up in the 2015 calendar year, there will be no shortage of play dates for shows slated to run across the county. San Diego has a reputation for opening world premieres that make their way to Broadway and for hosting some of the most popular touring companies. It’s a great time to be a part of the performing arts scene in San Diego, either up on the stage or in the seats enjoying what they do.

As the holiday season is in full swing, we have a packed month that embraces that spirit. Dr. Seuss’ “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” continues at The Old Globe through the 27th.

Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” runs through the 28th at the Cygnet Theatre. “Celtic Women” stop by for one night only on the 10th with the “Home For The Holidays” tour at the Civic Theatre. The North Coast Rep will bring us San Diego’s Premiere of “This Wonderful Life” running from the 10th to the 28th. The Lamb’s Players offers up the “Festival of Christmas” also through the 28th.

The San Diego Musical Theatre is staging its last production at the North Park Theatre before moving to their new home at the Spreckles Theatre on Broadway in January with the very

82

FINEsd.com | facebook.com/FINEmagazines

popular “White Christmas” from the 12th to the 21st. The San Diego Symphony has a full slate of holiday performances featuring “Holiday Pops - A Celtic Celebration” with Grammy Award winner and nine-Time All-Ireland Fiddle Champion, Eileen Ivers, from the 19th to the 21st. The Symphony’s Family Festival Series presents its traditional “Holiday Pops” on Sunday the 21st at 2:00 p.m. This version is for families with young children where you can sign along if you wish!

The Christmas season would be incomplete without “The Nutcracker” taking to the stage, and no less than four companies have their own spin on it. The City Ballet of San Diego stages from the 12th to the 24th at the Spreckles. The California Ballet lands at the Civic Theatre on the 13th & 14th with the Classics Philharmonic Orchestra and from the 17th through the 21st with the San Diego Symphony. The San Diego Ballet dances across Copley Symphony Hall on the 27th & 28th. And not to be left out, The La Jolla Playhouse has “The Second City Nut-Cracking Holiday Review” until the 21st.

In case you need some last-minute stocking stuffers or gifts, I recommend that you give a subscription package to one of our outstanding preforming arts groups. Not only will you give a wonderful gift to someone who will love it, but you also will be supporting the arts as well. It’s sort of like giving two gifts in one. I wish you all a very Merry Christmas season and I’ll see you next year.

THE RALPH LAUREN STIRRUP PETITE-LINK TIMEPIECE STAINLESS STEEL SNOW SETTING WITH 148 DIAMONDS HIGH-PRECISION QUARTZ MOVEMENT SWISS MADE 1241 Prospect Street • La Jolla, CA 92037 858-454-8001

RALPHLAURENWATCHES.COM