The GOODS Magazine - May 2014 by The G.O.O.D.S. Magazine

MAY 2014

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letter from the editor MY MISTRESS NAMED SAN DIEGO My loyalty lies with you Mrs. Philadelphia. I know it’s been a while since I’ve seen you. Is that why your heart was so cold this winter? I’ve found a new lady and her name is Mrs. San Diego. I’ve known her for 10 years now and her eyes shines so bright all year around. But, my loyalty lies with you Mrs. Philadelphia. You made me what I am today. Mrs. San Diego opened her welcoming arms to me and embraced my dreams. Allowed me to create lanes called The G.O.O.D.S. Blvd. I thank you her for that. Mrs. San Diego has done so much for me and provided me with a paradise outlook on life, and warmer temperatures in December. My team and I have dedicated May as the “San Diego” Issue Pt. 1. For the remainder of this year and years to come we will be spotlighting the best of the best of Southern California. There are so many GOODS restaurants, resorts, musicians, boutiques, salons, and entrepreneurs in this beautiful city. We will cover each and every one of you. Congratulations to San Diego’s new Mayor Kevin Faulconer. Thank you for taking time out of your busy day to speak with us at The G.O.O.D.S. Magazine. I would like to thank my entire team for their hard work and dedication. Special thanks to Rocky Forguson! You have the GOODS!

Omarr O

GOODS team EDITOR IN CHIEF & FOUNDER Omarr Olasewere

contributors BEAUTY CONTRIBUTOR

Lindsey Washbourne Lindsey@thegoodsmagonline.com

EDITOR-AT-LARGE

Johnique Woods johnique@thegoodsmagazineonline.com

MANAGING EDITOR & DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING

Solomon Osayande Jr. solomon@thegoodsmagazineonline.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Jessica Krantz jessica@thegoodsmagazineonline.com

MARKETING EXECUTIVE

Vanessa Barnes vanessa@thegoodsmagazineonline.com

MARKETING EXECUTIVE

Racquel Yarborough racquel@thegoodsmagazineonline.com

LIFESTYLE CONTRIBUTOR

Cyrillynn Chen Cyrillynn@thegoodsmagonline.com

LIFESTYLE CONTRIBUTOR

Syltoya Sterling Syltoya@thegoodsmagonline.com

COPY EDITOR

Tien Nguyen tien@thegoodsmagonline.com

WRITERS: Ashley Zarubi, Lindsey Washbourne, Brandee “Kurvy” J, Nicole Bowen, Alvin Miller Abraham, Trish Sanderson, Ian Miller, and Michael T. Brewer PHOTOGRAPHERS:

on the cover PHOTOGRAPHER: MODEL:

enquiries EDITORIALS: solomon@thegoodsmagazineonline.com WRITERS: solomon@thegoodsmagazineonline.com

EDITORIAL DESIGNER

ADVERTISERS: solomon@thegoodsmagazineonline.com

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

connect

Amy Ripplinger

Leo Malevanchik

FASHION CONTRIBUTOR

Ashley Zubrai Ashley@thegoodsmagonline.com

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GROOMING OUTSTANDING ORIGINALITY DEFINING STYLE PHOTO BY ONE-STAR-PHOTOGRAPHY.COM MODEL CRISTINA MARIA SARACUT

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in this issue FEATURED ARTICLES 10

SECRETS OF A STYLIST

THE WORLD OF COSPLAY

SUMMER HAIR COLOR

EAT SD!

BOUTIQUE-LY SAN DIEGO

SAN DIEGO'S NEW MAYOR

PAMPERING PERFECTION

FEVER CHARM

A'DOREUS

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CATAMARAN RESORT BRUNCH

VIDEO GAME GOODS

URBANE NOIR

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Secrets of a Stylist

MIXING PRINTS

By Ashley Zarubi

ith this season’s bold graphic print trend already in stores, it is best to know how to mix these patterns for optimal wear and use! These prints may be more versatile than you think, and since these prints are now in everything from shoes, shorts, skirts, tops, dresses and denim, you may as well be bold yourself and buy a pair this season! For men, this idea can never cross their minds, from being used to the classic black and navy suit choices. Branching out with your wardrobe though can be fun, and will definitely catch the eyes of women, and who wouldn’t want that, right? If you are new to mixing patterns, this way is the safest and easiest to transition into it. Start with a patterned blazer, like this navy blazer with a very light plaid in it. Then, when choosing a shirt, stay in the same color palate. This navy plaid shirt has a pop of contrasting red, for some fun, plus, you can never go wrong with the classic red, white, and blue. To finish the look, I chose a red bow tie to tie in the pop of red in the shirt. This look is fun, yet subtle, since the plaid in the blazer is very fair, you almost cannot see it. Pairing patterns can really vamp up your wardrobe and give you a modern take on fashion. Don’t just stop at plaid either, mix stripes, gingham, polka dots, even floral patterns into your wardrobe. If you are new to it, and still timid the best way and simple way to add pattern is through ties, bow ties, and socks. Get creative, you may end up loving these new fashion possibilities.

For women, mixing pattern is one fun technique when creating a outfit. Women tend to have more options of prints than men do. So it can actually be easier for women to mix patterns. Once again, it is easiest to combine prints within the same color family. However, another easy tip, is by combining patterns with one item in mostly black. Each of these three items has black it, with a contrasting color. This dark neutral allows for the look to stay clean, and not too crazy. The patterns become a fun accessory almost, and an unexpected detail. Feel free to really get creative though when mixing patterns. However, do not make an entire outfit of completely different patterns that look just looks jumbled and clown like. Who would want that...? I do suggest mixing small patterns with larger patterns though for fun. Or purchasing a coat with a great, bold pattern, that is such a statement piece, it almost becomes your identifier. Be brave and creative. The possibilities are endless, and with so many fantastic new prints this season, mixing and matching, could never be better.

Shifting Safely into Summer

color

By Lindsey Washbourne With the change in season comes the change of weather, mood, trend and my personal favorite, color. Notoriously, fall is when we all go richer and warmer, while in summer we transition into lighter and brighter. Most colorists prepare themselves for their clients to crave change, but sometimes the consumer’s expectation of what is achievable is off the radar. As a client, it’s critical to know how to prepare both your hair and your mind as you plan to shift into that beautiful beachy blonde this summer.

A tint brush is not a magic wand. Unfortunately, media portrays a very unrealistic expectation of hair color. We see celebrities like Lady Gaga, Nikki Minaj and Katy Perry drastically change the color of their hair on a daily basis. What we rarely consider? Two things: celebrities have disposable income to pay thousands for these overnight transformations and more often than not, these extreme makeovers are usually extensions or wigs. While it would be so fun to go from black to blonde to pink to blue at the snap of your finger, it’s just not reality. Hair is a fabric, and an incredibly delicate one. Colorists are trained and educated as their own breed of chemists – the good ones know what your hair can handle by the time they see you walk through the door. If your colorist tells you that your hair is in danger of serious damage and the very real “chemical haircut,” they aren’t just feeding you bull. We are hair chemists, not magicians. So trust the path we are recommending.

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In the spotlight

Know your past. When you sit in the chair of a colorist, the consultation is going to consist of a couple of predictable questions: “When was your last color service?” “Have you had highlights or been blonde in the past?” “Any relaxers? Perms? Keratin treatments?” “Is color being pulled roots to ends every time?” While we don’t expect you to know every gritty detail, keep a general note of what your hair has been through, and not just in the past 6 months. Hair grows about 6 inches every year. If your hair is down to your hips, that means you have approximately 5 years of history on your head. Also, don’t try to hide things you might not be proud of from your colorist. If you’ve given in to the at-home box color from time to time, tell us. Keeping secrets is only going to hinder the end result. Plus, a well-trained colorist can see the lies in your hair from a mile away, so you might as well just fess up!

A healthy canvas makes all the difference. The best advice I can my clients? You are equally responsible for the longevity and vibrancy of your color as I am. A hairdresser spends maybe 3 hours with your hair every 6-8 weeks; you are in charge the rest of the time. You may think that your hairdresser is just trying to make profit when recommending high-end treatments and products for you to take home, but the truth is that hairdressers make very little profit from anything you may buy from them. They are recommending these products to you because they trust and believe in the performance of what they do and can guarantee their work when you use them. If you are planning to make a big change this season, do some prep work. Invest in a high quality conditioning treatment and start a weekly routine of them at least 4 weeks before you start the

blonding process. Start by clarifying your hair of build-up, toxins and mineral deposits with Nioxin’s Clarifying Cleanser. This will allow your hair to soak up as much moisture as possible. For fine, delicate hair, Wella’s Enrich Treatment is my favorite. It has serious moisturizing and reparitive qualities without making the hair weighed down. Coarse, dry hair that may have already been through the ringer in the past is in need of repair and strengthening – this is the job for Sebastian’s Penetraitt Masque. Coming into the salon with a clean, healthy canvas makes all the difference.

Slow and steady wins the race. Allow your hair a chance to breathe between blondings and expect to transform into that summer bombshell in phases. Could it be possible to go from brunette to platinum in one sitting? Yes. But you are going to shell out some big bucks and are probably going to need to sacrifice quite a few inches in the process. If you can plan ahead and be patient, your hair is going to be much happier if you go through a few sessions of highlights. Have a heart to heart with your colorist and ask for an idea of what phases of blonde you can expect to go through while getting to your goal.

Suitability matters. Sure, Gwen Stefani makes an incredible platinum blonde. But that doesn’t mean that you will. There are so many different kinds of blonde, and each are best suited for certain skin tones. A cool complexion is going to look best in your cooler

blondes. Words like platinum, ash, pearl, frosty and vanilla come to mind. Warmer skin tones are meant for golden, strawberry, caramel, honey and beige blonde. How do you know which you are? Cool skin tones are usually accompanied by blue/ grey eyes, blue/purple vein color and typically gravitate towards fashion in silver, jewel tones, black or crisp white. Warm skin tones are usually accompanied by golden brown or hazel grey eyes, green/yellow vein color and typically gravitate towards fashion in gold, fall tones, brown or cream/off-white. If you’re unsure, ask your colorist what they think will work best for you.

Think about your maintenance goals. While change is always fun and exciting, sometimes a spontaneous change is not well thought out. If you’re natural hair grows in very dark, drastically changing 100% of all of your hair color is going to be very high maintenance, requiring a touch-up every 4-6 weeks. If you’re prepared both mentally and financially for this commitment, enjoy the transformation! If this seems like more than you’ve bargained for, opt for a more dimensional blonde that still incorporates bits and pieces of your natural color. This option will grow out softer with a much less harsh root grow out. Less contrast equals less maintenance. Before your colorist starts any color change on you, always ask when they suggest or would expect you to see them next. Maintaining your color should always be your choice, not theirs. Your colorist will be impressed and grateful that how your color looks, long term, is just as important to you as it is to them!

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Boutique-ly San Diego

By Nicole Bowen

Would you be surprised to learn that within the confines of San Diego you can find yourself shopping designer brands while sipping on boutique wine? Picking up hard to find items from London in a Parisian inspired space? Attend an accessories exchange party in a boutique with a shabby chic vibe or even pick up the perfect clutch and one of a kind piece of art at the same time?

Capricorn Boutique

Capricorn – 5628 La Jolla Blvd, Suite B, La Jolla (858) 551-2660 • www.capricornboutique.com

Stepping into this space feels like you are stepping into an intimate Parisian apartment complete with black and white checker board floors and vintage fireplace. A casually cool vibe and an address in an up and coming neighborhood of La Jolla are just part of the allure of Capricorn. Featuring men’s and women’s brands like Splendid, Eight Sixty, Gypsy05, and DL1961 as well as unique accessories and fun cards there is something for the fashionista in all of us! Owners Krissy and Lisa, both Capricorns naturally, have even included specialty items from London to entice even the ardent anglophile.

Vocabulary Boutique Perhaps you are meeting friends for a glass of wine in Little Italy or maybe you’re fortunate enough to live in the adorable neighborhood. However you may find yourself here a must for his or hers shopping is Vocabulary. With a collection of brands like French Connection, Whitney Eve, and Level 99, Vocabulary is beachy, cool, and casual without being overly pretentious. In addition to the fabulous clothing and accessories available at Vocabulary they have a stellar blog highlighting current trends and pieces currently in store to help you #articulateyourstyle.

Vocabulary – 414 W. Cedar Street, San Diego (619) 544-1100 • www.vocabularyboutique.com

Junc Life & Style

Blended Industries

If you are hip enough to hang out in South Park chances are you have already discovered Junc Life & Style. Men’s and women’s fashion, unique accessories, and must have gifts live together in one eclectic space, you can even purchase that massive desk in the middle of the store! Junc’s unique approach to shopping has left nothing off limits to their customers, including the furniture. If you’re shopping for the perfect T and hoping to score a piece of art for your living room then Junc is right up your alley!

Once upon a time an ambitious blonde, with a love for fashion, partnered with her wine maker boyfriend. The two set out on creating the only boutique clothing store and wine bar in the country and found a niche for San Diegans who love a little vino with their designers! A trip to Blended Industries includes browsing through high end brands, including JBrand and Hudson, for both men and women. Owners, Summer Albertsen & Jesse Kovacs (yup, of Bachelorette fame), have won over the shopping crowd with their hybrid concept in La Jolla. If you really want to feel inspired before stepping foot inside the boutique check out Blended Industries on Instagram or read Summer’s blog, The Champagne Blonde!

Junc – 2209 Fern Street, San Diego (619) 283-2611 • www.junclifeandstyle.com

Blended Industries – 1025 Prospect Street, Suite 220, La Jolla • (858) 255-8205 www.blendedindustries.com

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Pampering Perfection Whether you consider spa treatments a necessity of life or a luxury to splurge on once in awhile, we all want to ensure value for our money or time spent. With the endless options of day spas and salons scattered across San Diego picking the best option for you can be a daunting task.

By Nicole Bowen

VaVa Varnish

Bellagio Salon

friendly spa or browse the unique items in the Therapie boutique.

Bellagio Salon in Mission Valley has created a relaxing oasis for day spa and hair pampering. With stylists offering services for extensions and Brazilian blowout, Bellagio has made taking care of your hair simple. The stylists are fun and outgoing with a knack for perfection and keeping up on current trends in the hair world. Even a visit for a quick trim feels indulgent and relaxing thanks to a neutral color palate and a tranquil music selection.

Therapie Day Spa 4985 Voltaire Street, San Diego (619) 780-8700 • www.therapiedayspa.com

Bellagio Salon 2185 Station, San Diego • (619) 297-7601 www.mysalonbellagio.com

VaVa Varnish VaVa Varnish seems to have developed a cult-like following of fans and it’s really no surprise. With endless options of inexpensive, strip mall locations for a manicure or pedicure that rush us out as quickly as we walk in, VaVa Varnish is a refreshing change. This is THE place to go if you are coveting the nail art you saw on your favorite celeb or if Pinterest nail art has you obsessed with the ombre trend. VaVa Varnish has done away with whirlpool foot spas that become a home to bacteria, no extra charges for fabulous nail art, and no chatter distracting you from the zen relaxation you so desperately crave. VaVa Varnish 730 Market Street, San Diego (858) 225-7738 • www.vavavarnish.com

Therapie Day Spa

Enlightan Best Spray Tan: Imagine waking up feeling a little on the pale side and simply calling Enlightan Mobile Spray Tan for an appointment. A few hours later Olivia or Lindsay will arrive at your house, discuss the desired tan you are hoping for, and a few moments later you look as if you’ve been basking on a beach in the Bahamas. Both Olivia and Lindsay are certified spray tan technicians who provide you with the best (and healthiest) tan possible. Enlightan (619) 459-0874 • www.enlightan.org

Spa La Costa Named the #1 Wellness Spa in the Nation by Spa Magazine and a favorite of the celeb crowd is Spa La Costa! A La Costa Custom Massage, which utilizes Swedish style technique to nix stress and relax tight muscles at the same time, is the perfect way to feel pampered like Hollywood Royalty! Arrive early to spend some time in the relaxation lounge and indulge in a Spa Lunch poolside to complete the ultimate day of relaxation! You are guaranteed to leave feeling like a million dollars. Spa La Costa 2100 Costa Del Mar Road, Carlsbad (760) 438-9111

Therapie Day Spa in Ocean Beach is the ideal locale for relaxing massages and body scrubs but this OB escape is a must for a facial. Therapie is a self described “holistic” day spa that is dedicated to “creating an experience that is uniquely yours”. With an emphasis on a personal approach for each client, a facial at Therapie can rejuvenate, calme, or simply, make you glow. Make a day of the experience by relaxing after your facial in the eco

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A’doreus

by Sharlene Borremo

By Brandee “Kurvy” J San Diego is known for its beautiful weather, high-cost of living, wonderful beaches, and now plus size fashion! As the plus size industry continues to grow and get more attention from the entertainment and fashion industry, a number of designers for plus size women are emerging into the spotlight! These designers are right in our hometown of beautiful San Diego! Being in the plus size fashion industry for a number of years I’m so excited to see more and more designers getting the attention they deserve, but I am happier they are coming out of San Diego! A’doreus by fashion designer Sharlene Borremo is one of those designers. I had the pleasure of not only interviewing her but also reviewing her collections. Sharlene is “Fashion Week San Diego’s first and only plus size designer,” and has been for a number of years. It’s about time that her beautiful, vibrant, eye-popping fashions are getting the well-deserved attention for not only the plus size industry, but for the Fashion Industry.

When did you know you wanted to be a plus size designer? Growing up, I never kept up with or followed fashion trends because plus size clothing options were so limited. The first time I gave fashion any thought was when I turned 21 and started to go clubbing. I always feared showing up to the club or an event wearing the same thing the next plus size woman was wearing. I realized that there was a definite lack of fashion forward clothing for the plus size consumer. In 2005 I decided to go to fashion school with the sole purpose of learning how I could translate my retail and management experience into the fashion industry as a buyer. I never considered fashion design until 2006 when I was fortunate enough to intern with World Renown Fashion Icon and Textime Designer, Zandra Rhodes. I initially interned for Zandra as a business student while I attended Fashion Careers College to obtain a degree in Fashion Business & Technology. With every task she challenged me creatively. Because of her I discovered my creative side and a hidden talent of hand painting various items such as leather, denim, and glass. Rhodes encouraged me to pursue a career in design. She saw the potential before I had even let the idea cross my mind. So I took a leap of faith and pursued the Fashion Design and Technology Degree the day after I graduated from the Fashion Business and Technology Program. I have been employed by Rhodes as an Assistant Painter and Sewer since 2009. Over the years plus size fashion has been dull, plain, and not very exciting. A number of designers have been afraid to be daring but not Sharlene! Reviewing her collection I was not only impressed www.thegoodsmag.co

but thankful that she was not scared to be daring with patterns, prints, colors, and overall design. Her collection has been known to let the inner “Fashion Beast” that is in all of us plus size women out! A’doreus is the collection for all Plus Size women! She gives you everything you want! Chic, sleek, colors and more! In my own words the collection is a beautiful mix of Rhianna, meets Olivia Pope, meets Audrey Hepburn.

Describe your NEW Spring line? What was your inspiration for the collection?

What is next for A’doreus? The A’doreus mission statement is to live a lifestyle that a’dores and embraces diversity and size acceptance through the many facets of fashion. Collaborating with other artists and women is essential to A’doreus’ success. Last year I collaborated with local artist, Rebecca Berenson of Urban Fish Design to create an exclusive design that was printed on fabric and used in the Spring/ Summer 2014 collection. Recently I had the pleasure of meeting a San Diegan R&B/soul singer who will be auditioning in July to represent A’doreus on the Fashion Week San Diego runway as a plus size model. We envision the A’doreus collection coming down the runway to her music. It’s all about timing so you will have to tune in. It is my goal to empower and support other women’s dreams. In addition, A’doreus will be teaming up with Jacqueline Penhos, founder of Hugs and Bags to collect donations that will help the homeless people of San Diego. I want to utilize this platform as a way to uplift people.

Design is a very personal and emotional process for me. Every collection is inspired by 3 things: the women who will be wearing them, music, and my current thoughts revolving love. It’s almost like a “formula” for success. I get to pour my soul and intimate thoughts about love into each collection. When I look back at each collection it reminds me of how far I’ve come, how great things are, or how much of a hopeless romantic I am. It’s my way of sharing and documenting my life experiences. The As far as design, I would like to create a petite plus size line. After a dozen or more model submissions from Spring/Summer 2015 collection is about simplicity and beautiful women who are under 5’9’’- I know that it is a appreciating the basics. The pieces will have feminine style lines and classic silhouettes. The color scheme usually stays the same: black, white, a pop of color, a print, and black piping. You’ll have to wait and see what pop of color I choose and how I will use the printed fabric. I’m leaning toward red or coral... but we’ll see in October when I showcase my collection at Fashion Week San Diego how closely I stick to my original design concept. The A’doreus Collection is more than just a fashion line it comes from the inner beauty of a woman who understands that being a plus size woman is not easy. She looks into her soul and heart before she creates and that is what sets Sharlene apart from the rest. Designing for her is more than just creating something to sell it’s about telling a story and making sure that story touches all plus size women.

niche that hasn’t been tapped into yet. I am only 5’2’’ myself so I understand their struggle being plus size AND short. With all of the buzz and excitement around A’doreus I cannot wait to see the new collection at Fashion Week San Diego this year! If you cannot wait that long you will have a chance to see some designs at Fashion Week’s Spring Showcase on April 26th at Harrah’s Hotel! Get ready San Diego the Plus Size Fashion industry will be taking over the city! To learn more about Sharelene and see her views on the fashion industry go to my blog at www.kurvylife.com.

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Catamaran Resort Brunch

A Gem in San Diego!

By Brandee Kurvy J.

an Diego, California is home to many beaches, restaurants, theme parks, and beautiful hotels! One of the top hotels in our beautiful city for over 30 years is the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa. If you’re looking for the perfect staycation this is the place you need to go!

When walking into the hotel you are immediately taken back by the beautiful indoor waterfall that makes you feel like you are in Hawaii. At the bottom of the waterfall is a beautiful Koi Pond that is home to over 75 Koi fish. The pond stretches throughout the entire property and is mind-blowing!

After checking into one of their waterfront rooms, which provides you with direct access to the beach, you can walk over to the award winning restaurant Atoll for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. However, you MUST come out to San Diego’s Top Brunch which is the Atoll’s Sunday Brunch from 10AM-2PM every Sunday! I have been to a number of brunches in San Diego and around the country but none of those have topped the Catamaran’s Sunday Brunch with unlimited mimosas! This brunch not only features an outstanding omelet station but also has fresh made sushi, fresh seafood, and my favorite cook to order Belgian waffles! With about 4-5 different food stations focusing on food options from different parts of the world, this brunch really does have something for everyone! Besides enjoying the waffles, fresh seafood, and the unlimited mimosas the service is also outstanding! Whenever I go my party and I are always greeted with warm smiles and never have to wait for anything! Our glasses are never empty and they also bring out fresh muffins just because! Now that is great service! The Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa Sunday Brunch is San Diego’s TOP Brunch!

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The World of

By Alvin Miller Abraham

COSPLAY On

April 19, 2014 the Anaheim Convention Center hosted Wonder Con; an annual event dedicated to all things sci-fi and fantasy. Tens of thousands of diehard fans descended on the local community bringing fun and excitement to people of all ages.

If history has taught us anything we should know fashion may have some odd yet interesting periods. A growing trend in recent years has come from the world of sci-fi, fantasy and comic book enthusiast and has transitioned from small screen, silver screen or print to everyday life for some. That era is defined by people dressing in the rolls of their favorite famous and often infamous characters or simply Cosplay.

The Cosplay community has near Hollywood level talent in creativity and ability when it comes to costumes design and creation. What may have started as a one-time thing for small conventions has turned into full time work for those that are able to attend various conventions or make paid appearances. Cast out the old stereotypes about people that read comic books. These aren’t your father’s “nerds”. It is likely the community and world of Cosplay will continue to grow as annual events like, Wonder Con, Comic Con and other conventions catering from gaming to anime or Star Trek to Star Wars continue to draw record crowds. Cosplay doesn’t seem to be a flash in the pan or a fad that is likely to go away anytime soon. In fact more people will be drawn to this new and expanding arena as pop culture continues to encourage individuality. Kids, large and small, no longer have to wait for Halloween to see their favorite characters. The next superhero or adventurer is only a mirror away. Be brave, be bold and by all means be careful before dawning that cape or cowl and above all else make sure you ask yourself one question: Is today a GOODS day?

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REVIEWING REGIONALLY: Eat SD!

BY TRISH SANDERSON

SD locals know what they love and don’t hesitate to give online feedback. A couple clicks on Yelp.com will prove there is hyped, highly rated and rave-reviewed restaurants all over the county to choose from. We’ve narrowed it down and have ten local must tries: Consider it a San Diego Bite Bucket List.

Juniper & Ivy, Little Italy This new kid on the block made a grand entrance and silenced the naysayers with a solid sweep of stunning menu items. It’s positive reviews are stacking up and the venue itself is a feast for the eyes. Settle in at the bar or enjoy the lower level: They feel worlds away from each other due to clever design. Pull up to the chef’s table kitchen-side or the upstairs private dining room is available: Either way, the hardest choice will be the food. Will it be the Tune Tartare with Asian Pear, Pine nuts, and Mango Yolk or the Prawn & Pork Rigatoni? Freshly made in house of course, with a Brooklyn gravy and Burrata.

Phil’s BBQ, Midway It’s most reviewed restaurant on Yelp in San Diego and is holding onto the title despite being closed for renovations earlier this year. It’s a must try if you’re a local (or a visitor) and one of San Diego’s claim to fame restaurants. Check the online “BB-Queue Cam” to note the line times (Oh, and there WILL be a line) then indulge in a baby back rib dinner, complete with secret sauce and a long list of sides to choose from like Corn-on-the-Cob, Sweet Baked Beans, or Macaroni Salad. The Pulled Pork Sandwich (Dubbed the BBQ Broham®) is a solid alternate to the slabs of meat and don’t forget the famous Whoopie Pie on your way out. www.thegoodsmag.co

Claire’s On Cedros, Solana Beach This breakfast joint and café is LEED® Platinum certified, extremely popular on the weekends, has hundreds of online reviews and is a worth the wait experience. Claire herself is a talented baker (insider info: She was the original creator of Milton's Multigrain Bread!) and uses her skills to operate with a wholesome community focus. The Clairecakes are outstanding: other notable items include the Salmon Cake Benedict with arugula, fresh tomato, covered in heavenly hollandaise and the Short Rib Hash with red potatoes-eggs at a perfect poach. Lunch is also served, and dinner has kicked off for the summer months. The back patio is puppy friendly and boasts a romantic rep.

Urban Solace, North Park Matt Gordon’s main masterpiece has an almost religious following, not to mention over two thousand Yelp reviews. Everything is the highest quality, “no artificial ingredients, fake sugars or other junk.” Start off with the addicting Warm Cheese Biscuits spread with Orange-Honey Butter and Smoked Tomato Jam, and then peruse the possibilities. The current menu features items like Braised Paso Grass-fed Beef Cheeks, “Not Your Momma’s Meatloaf” full of Ground Lamb & Pork and every Thursday night you’ll find a rotating prix fixe Vegetarian menu. The weekend Bluegrass Brunch is North Park tradition too!

Sushi Ota, Pacific Beach

Market, Del Mar

The most reviewed (and highest rated) sushi-serving location in all of San Diego:It’s food as art, practically couture cuisine, amazingly fresh and stunningly created. Be forewarned: when you arrive you’ll find a quintessential example of “it’s what’s inside that counts” and need to brave the nondescript location in a strip mall for a little (or a lot) Omakase. If you must order per the menu seek the sashimi section: O Toro, Mackerel, Tokobushi, Sweet Shrimp, Giant Clam, anything your hankering heart desires. Yelpers have rated it over 1800 times and the website claims it’s one of the top ten sushi joints in California.

Undeniably upscale dining, but you’ll be delighted with the laid back down-in-oldDel Mar vibe and tradition. You’ll find recently remodeled Market tucked back along Via De La Valle across from the Polo fields. The Local Grapefruit and Avocado Salad will absolutely refresh you, served with Purple Haze goat cheese, Arbequina Olive Oil, Date Sugar and Toasted Pistachios. A wood burning brick oven was added early in the year, the service is top notch and of course, with Carl Schroeder sourcing hyper local ingredients at the helm, you’re in good hands.

Harney Sushi, Old Town With well over a thousand Yelp reviews and counting, the people have spoken! You’ll find acclaimed sushi and perfected Japanese cuisine on the menu, and what’s more, you can eat with a clean conscious. Harney is committed to sustainable products in their dishes and follow the Monterey Bat Aquarium Seafood Watch recommendations. Reviewers love the “Flaming Lip,” a tempura fried cali roll with cream cheese, topped with spicy mayo, jalapeno and sriracha. The Mussels are also fantastic, locally sourced from rad C-bad and served in sesame, ginger, garlic and kimchee infused miso broth with a crusty baguette.

Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen, Oceanside The options here tip the cap to San Diego’s obsession with all things pork related. Relax, settle in with the locals and get to know the community: they’re committed to the Slow Food Movement and create their American comfort cuisine with care. The menu starts with a series of “Piggybacks” like molasses glazed brussels & bacon and cheddar cheese bacon grits. Next you’ll find the smoked duck salad (house cured muscovy duck ham, celery, date, sherry vinaigrette, pea tendrils and juniper mustarda) and we haven't even hit the entrée options yet! Chicken & Dumplings, house-made pasta: Prep for the food baby, it's worth every bite.

Native Foods Café, Encinitas Everything on the fast-casual menu is non-dairy, homemade, 100% plant based and downright delicious. Try the Soul Bowl: Southern Fried Native Chicken with hearty red beans and brown rice, steamed veggies and kale dressed with ranch, BBQ sauce and served with homemade cornbread. The beverages are hand crafted too, we love the Lavender Lemonade (French lavender steeped with fresh lemons and a touch of organic sugar) and the Watermelon Fresca with mint and organic agave. Locations are popping up all around the country, with over seven scheduled on the website for 2014 (hello Point Loma!) and each time the locals rejoice!

Looking for other must-try SD Restaurants? Find them all and read local reviews on Yelp.com

Trish Sanderson is the Community Manager for Yelp.com. She leads a vibrant community of locals both online and off. www.thegoodsmag.co

In the spotlight

Get to know the NEW Mayor

By Brandee “Kurvy” J

Over the past year our beautiful city has been under a microscope and in the national spotlight due to the actions of the former mayor. As we try to turn the page from that ugly chapter in our city’s history the voters hit the polls a few months ago and elected two-term City Councilmember Kevin Faulconer as the new Mayor of San Diego. Now all eyes are on Mayor Faulconer to see if he can unite our city and bring integrity back to City Hall. Despite his hectic schedule I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Mayor Faulconer and I asked him a few questions about his plans for our great city:

AFTER 8 YEARS ON THE CITY COUNCIL WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO RUN FOR MAYOR? It was time to restore trust and integrity back into our city. Restore our neighborhoods and create real quality jobs. It was time to focus on growing San Diego.

DOES THE CITY HAVE ANY PLANS ON BRINGING MORE MAJOR EVENTS TO SAN DIEGO TO SUPPORT THE FASHION INDUSTRY, IF SO WHAT ARE THESE EVENTS? I want to say that San Diego is Back and OPEN FOR BUSINESS! Our focus is to empower and stand behind the small businesses in San Diego to bring more major events to our city so they can succeed. San Diego is filled

with so many talented and creative people that need our support for their work to prosper and shine.

LAST MONTH YOU POSTED YOUR FIRST VIDEO TO THE CITY EMPLOYEES TO ENCOURAGE THEM TO BRING NEW IDEAS TO HELP IMPROVE THE CITY’S GOVERNMENT. WHAT NEW IDEAS DO YOU HAVE TO IMPROVE SAN DIEGO AS A CITY? Creative and innovative people make things happen and that is what I want not only the city’s employees to be, but the residents of our city as well. We need everyone to think out of the box and make things better for San Diego.

EVERYONE WANTS TO KNOW WILL YOU BE DOING ANYTHING TO HELP THE CHARGERS BUILD A NEW STADIUM IN THE CITY? The City of San Diego is extremely important to the Chargers and the Chargers are important to the city. We will be working on a package to get them to stay!

FUN FACT QUESTION: WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE STORES TO SHOP AT? I go where the sales are (laughing)! After speaking with him it is clear that Mayor Faulconer is ready to take our city to new heights. He is very passionate about helping small business owners and entrepreneurs, which is very exciting for all of us. San Diego wanted change and I believe that we got it!

theposhknot.com 619.663.4TPK (4875) San Diego 214-997-4TPK (4875) Dallas

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Fever

Charm

By Ian Miller

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White Stripes and Black Keys are known for their swagger-laden sound. It’s an attitude that take time to develop and their particular flavors are born from a much earlier time. That’s why it’s particularly surprising to hear that same brash confidence in the sound of Fever Charm. It’s surprising because the members of Fever Charm are between the ages of 17 and 21. The punk and blues genres that they sit squarely between are best suited for dimly lit bars, which they seem completely at home in, despite most of the band’s inability to legally imbibe alcohol for a couple more years.

The Oakland-based band’s “West Coast Rock & Roll,” released earlier this year, is their first fulllength album and is strong throughout all its 10 tracks, but like any album there are standouts. And like great albums, there is a balance between variety and continuity that keeps the listener from getting bored but presents a consistent story. The album opens up with “Take Me Out,” a bouncy number that fits nicely in the power pop category and revels in themes of newly found love. The sound is reminiscent of Supergrass and Rocket From the Crypt.

Tracks 2 and 3 (“Broke Down Betty” and “Call Me When You Get Lonely” respectively) slow the pace down considerably, introducing the swagger that makes you do a double take if you’re aware of the ages of the band members. “Modern World” is easily one of the more memorable tracks on the album with its classic hooks and lyrical testament to the challenges of technology. Written by anyone older, the topic would come across as “grumpy Luddite grandpa” but given that the message is coming from those born into technology, the idea is a bit more novel. Maybe it’s perfectly consistent given the old souls in the sound of this music. Carrying through this theme, the very next track is by far the most in-your-face rock akin to The Rolling Stones or Jet. “Sin Conviction” is the standout track of the album. It doesn’t sound anything like the rest of the album and bucks the usual verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus formula. It harkens of Kings of Leon but is still very much its own song. It’s got a unique feel, with builds and cutouts, and a big open sound with lots of depth, like a story that you don’t want to end. Fever Charm is now working on a new EP produced by Matt Noveskey (IAMDYNAMITE, Blue October) and playing selectively across the US. Follow them on tumblr at http://fevercharm.tumblr.com/.

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let’s get social. PHOTO BY ALEXANDERLEBRENZ.COM www.thegoodsmag.co

this in review

The GOODS on Music

By Michael T. Brewer

LISTEN TO THIS Keyshia Cole Single: Next Time (Won't Give My Heart Away) Genre: R&B Release Date: March 20, 2014

R&B belle Keyshia Cole released one of six songs she free-styled for her upcoming sixth album Point of No Return. On “Next Time,” Keyshia is lamenting over her long suffering relationship with her now estranged husband Daniel “Boobie” Gibson. Against a spiraling synth, 808 drum loop and moody bassline, Keyshia recounts her emotions of sorrow. The pain comes across with each passing note she sings. Profound sadness and melancholy languishes as she sings “The crazy part about it is I took you right back / I thought you were a changed man / I tried to work it out for the sake of my family / But you took my kindness for weakness and my love for granted.”

LISTEN TO THIS Pell New Orleans’ bred rapper Pell releases his second single from his soon to be released follow up LP Floating While Dreaming. Produced by Roc Nation’s Lugwig Göransson best known for his work with Childish Gambino and Haim. The song showcasing an ethereal sonic blissfully dancing upon the smooth 808 drum. Pell delivers an amazing staccato flow and switches gears to singing a few lines during the pre-chorus. The song transforms into a classic 90s groove before it ends suddenly like a dream. Single: Dollar Store Genre: Rap Release Date: April 15, 2014

LISTEN TO THIS Tristen Nashville-based singer/songwriter Tristen releases her dainty diddy Gold Star. An enchanting folk-synth pop track has clever and insighful lyrics. Its melodic and dreamy. The artificial and organic play well with each other set to Tristen’s warm blissful vocal arrangement. Inside there’s bits of nostalgic 60s Pop structure underneath wispy electronica. Single: Gold Star Genre: Electronic Release Date: April 15, 2014

LISTEN TO THIS Wrathschild Indie Pop singers Wolfy and Simon Curtis unite to for super duo Wrathschild on the enchanting power pop ballad “Fall Into Love.” The bubblegum sing-along chorus sounds like something from the early 2000s. Its an infectious song layered with Wolfy and Simon’s pitch perfect vocals. The sugar confection that is “Fall Into Love” incorporates music trends of old and new blurring the lines of throwback mashup. The cheerleader chant during the middle eight sets off into a huge pulse of teen spirit. Definitely a strong pick for Prom Song of 2014. Single: Fall Into Love Genre: Pop Release Date: March 24, 2014

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this in review

The GOODS on Video Games By Michael T. Brewer

As time moves on, some franchises are left behind. Miraculously, many once believed forgotten franchises have been revived. Here’s two great franchises that have risen from the ashes. Title: Drakengard 3 Platform: Playstation 3 Genre: Action Role-Playing Release Date: May 20, 2014 Published: SquareEnix Developer: Access Games Recently, SquareEnix has finally stabilized themselves by cranking out titles in a shorter span of time. Most recently releasing Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD, Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII and Bravely Default. Striking out again on a once assumed “Dead IP” (Intellectual Property), Drakengard 3 was announced in March of 2013 which by this time, the game was 60% complete. The game is being developed by another smaller development team Access Games who’s known for their work for the survival horror Deadly Promotion released in 2010 for Playstation 3, Xbox 360 and PC. The approach to this game was to create a great single player experience with incredible action elements seemlessly with role-playing lens. Also, the producer Takamasa Shiba wanted to create a game that could cater to hardcore role-playing game audience. The

game features a mysterious and traitorous woman named Zero partnered with a dragon named Mikhail to slay her five sisters who rule various regions of the world. Though this is the third entry in the series, the game is a prequel to the entire series and connected to the Drakengard spin-off Nier. In other words, this game can be enjoyed by those who have never heard of this series before. With heavy emphasis on combat balanced with story telling, the game features two types of gameplay: Zero’s hackand-slash combat and Mikhail’s aerial combat. The player will switch between both styles in order to complete the objectives. Drakengard 3 will be releaed exclusively on Playstation 3 May 20, 2014 with a special edition sold exclusively on the publisher’s website.

Title: Killer Instinct Platform: Xbox One Genre: Fighting Release Date: November 22, 2013 Published: Microsoft Studios Developer: Double Helix, Iron Galaxy, Rare Microsoft’s acquisition of Rare Studios (Perfect Dark, Donkey Kong) in 2002 had many wondering what was next for those old IP’s that laid dormant and forgotten. Perfect Dark Zero was released on Xbox 360. Largely, many wondered what would become of the late great Killer Instinct franchise. Ten years later, Microsoft applied for the renewal of the KI trademark. Many speculated that the franchise may be revived. At the Electronic Entertainment Expo in 2013, Microsoft announced Killer

Instinct exclusively for Xbox One. The game’s story takes place several years after the events of Killer Instinct 2. More importantly, the gameplay of the original game has remained in tact with Hi-Res HD graphical update, new fighting mechanics and a complete visual overhaul. If you are feeling nostalgic, the original costumes are available as well. Killer Instinct for the Xbox One was released exclusively on the Xbox Live Marketplace. Additional Downloadable Content is available.

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GOODs? are you

G R O O M I N G O U T S TA N D I N G O R I G I N A L I T Y. D E F I N I N G S T Y L E .