San Diego June 2017

S T Y LE ///B E AU T Y EDI T I ON

#6 4

CALIFORNIALOHA EXECUTIVE CHEF STEVEN RIEMER TAKES US ON A MINI FOODIE VACAY TO HAWAII

ADELAIDE K ANE

AFTER THE PARTY, IT’S THE AFTER-PARTY AFTER THE DEL MAR RACES, THIS IS WHERE THE REAL PARTY BEGINS

EASY RIDER

JOCKEY EXTRAORDINAIRE JOE TALAMO PREPARES FOR A BIG SEASON AT THE DEL MAR RACE TRACK

FERRY TALE

RIDE WITH US AS WE EXPLORE CORONADO

THE POOL HOUSE AT PENDRY SAN DIEGO

the

n u c A h ’ L R T A Y P

S D J U N E I S S U E R E L E A S E PA RTY

L’AUBERGE DEL MAR

1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014 BUY TICKETS // localelaunch.eventbrite.com // $10

Photo by: Dhrumil Desai

Contributor Call Out PHOTO BY:

NICK ISABELLA nickisabella.photography @nickisabella.photography Style/Beauty Experts - Trendy Tendencies Van De Vort Boutique Flower Hill Promenade 2710 Via De La Valle, Del Mar, CA 92014 DATE TAKEN: MARCH 30, 2017

10 LOCALE MAGAZINE

Andrea Van De Vort Owner of Van De Vort Boutique www.shopvandevort.com

LOCALE MAGAZINE 11

THE TEAM ERIK HALE Publisher + Founder erik@localemagazine.com | @local_e ASHLEY SMITH COO/Co-Founder ashley@localemagazine.com | @ashleyelainexo REILLY KAVANAUGH Art Director reilly@localemagazine.com | @localereilly | @reillyek EDITORIAL JORDAN LIGONS Editor jordan@localemagazine.com | @justjayyL CHELSEA RAINERI Editor chelsea@localemagazine.com | @chelsearaineri CHARLOTTE FARRELL Editor charlotte@localemagazine.com | @charlottefarrell RANDI SLUSHER Photoshoot Coordinator randi@localemagazine.com | @randi.slusher SALES & MARKETING MIKE TODD SMITH Sr. Market Manager mts@localemagazine.com | @miketoddsmith JASON KOSKY Sr. Market Manager jason@localemagazine.com | @locale_jason BLAINE MULLIGAN Market Manager blaine@localemagazine.com | @localeblainemulligan JAMES ULRICH Market Manager james@localemagazine.com | @j_bubbs JOEL THOMPSON Market Manager joel@localemagazine.com | @joelclaythompson RILEY O'NEILL Market Manager riley@localemagazine.com | @therileyoneill BRIANNA ROMANO Partnerships + Marketing Director brianna@localemagazine.com | @briannabanawna FINANCE VALERIE KERR Accountant accounting@localemagazine.com DISTRIBUTION RICK RAMIREZ & ROBERT JONES

THE CONTRIBUTORS WRITERS ALANA ARONSON @alana_aronson ARIANA VELAZQUEZ arianapearl.com | @ariianapearl ASHLEE POLAREK inspirationfromexploration.wordpress.com | @thegreatbigwonder ASHLEY RUIZ thatlawriter.com | @ashleysitasays ELENA KHURY khuryskravings.wordpress.com | @khuryskravings EMILY TORRES thepostgradfiles.com | @emilyelyse8 ERICA JOHNSON onmogul.com/erica-johnson-85 | @ericabjohnson JEANNETTE SWANSON | JESSICA YOUNG @racingcupcakes KAI FRAIS @ck_frias | KARLI KARANDOS karlirosetravel.wordpress.com | @karankar KEANA MCGRATH @kayonuh | KELLY EMMER kellyemmerphotography.com MATTHEW BLACK blackinkfurther.com | MATTHEW BURKE @matthewcraigburke MIMI DANG @amoebadang | TAMARA PHILIPS @candid.california NICOLE HAKIM sultanvilebetrayer.tumblr.com | @nikkicola24 TERRY WILLS willscommunications.com | TYLER HOLLAND @tyler_jal PHOTOGRAPHERS ANDREA DOMJAN andreadomjanphotography.com | @andrea_domjan_photography BHADRI KUBENDRAN @urbancell_gastronomy DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS nobleandrews.com | @nobleandrews EVAN TIPTON evan-tipton.com | @tiptonevan GIUSEPPE DEMASI demasiphotography.com | @demasistyle GREY LOCKWOOD greylockwood.com | @greylockwoodphoto JANE CHOUTEAU janechouteau.com | MATHEW MARTINEZ @2mb_imagery JOSIE GONZALES qsphotography.com | @josgonzal KAMBRIA FISCHER kambriafischer.com | @kambria_fischer_photo MICHAEL WESLEY polarizedstudios.com | @bluewesley NICK ISABELLA nickisabella.photography | @nickisabella.photography FA S H I O N S T Y L I S T S JOHNNY CHAVEZ @jchav5 | JENNIFER PATTERSON @jenniefromthebrush BEAUTY STYLISTS ALEX SEXTON | HEATHER BALAAM hbmua.com | @hb.makeupartist KRISTEE TAMULIS @kristeet | LISA LEEDY lisa-leedy.com | @lisaleedybeautydesign ROCHELLE RANDALL thepopularmovement.com | @rochellerandall *For full information on our contributors go to www.localemagazine.com/about LO CA L E M AG A Z I N E 2755 Bristol St Ste 295, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.436.8910 • www.localemagazine.com @localemagazine • #localemagazine

A NOTE FROM OUR

PUBLISHER "Every woman is a queen and we all have different things to offer."

—Queen Latifah super cute Sephora-inspired Poppin' Pantones (p. 73), a basket full of local Style/Beauty Experts (p. 43), pursuits that help reduce human trafficking (p. 68) and some of our favorite places to shop (p. 40).

Why be a princess when the throne is available? Adelaide Kane, a queen on The CW’s "Reign," appears prepared to make a run for the Hollywood crown. We spent an amazing arvo at Pendry San Diego in the Gaslamp Quarter trying to keep up with Kane and the amazing talents she has to offer.

If you are "just here for the food," we did not forget about you as we give you a list of SoCal’s best bloody marys (p.

112), a deconstructed salmon bowl in Meals Deconstructed (p.

103), the perfect michelada (p.

100) and a California-Hawaiian inspired table that will have you doing the hula (p. 164).

I am so excited about this particular issue, that I hope that you’d stop reading now and flip forward to the table of contents.

Our STYLE///BEAUTY issue reminds me of the way that I pack for a three-day weekend; it has one of everything (except socks), and is packed so full that it is hard to get the zipper closed. We have an all new editorial team that has worked hard to find not just local insights on Style/Beauty, but also scoured neighborhoods, Instagram pages and nightclubs for the best that San Diego has to offer.

Let me take a big inhale and then tell you in an amazingly long, editor-head-scratchinducing, run-on-sentence about this issue that includes a perfect day trip to Coronado (p.

83), a comprehensive "to-diefor" SoCal Bridal Guide (p. 51),

I know that the idea of "school letting out" means something totally different to different readers. It no longer means that I am off for the summer, it means my kids are. We pack tons of summer vacay inspiration into these pages with trips to South Africa (p.

156), Santa Barbara (p. 146), Las Vegas (p. 170), Los Cabos (p.

168) and Palm Springs (p. 36).

We hope that we earned our crown this time and wish you a happy and long reign among your friends as king or queen of things to do in San Diego after reading this issue.

Queen me.

ERIK HALE PUBLISHER + FOUNDER erik@localemagazine.com | @local_e

LOCALE MAGAZINE

TA BL E CO NTEN T S of

JUNE 2017

THIS ISSUE: STYLE/BEAUTY

40

Coolest Places to Shop

SHOP HERE FOR THE #SWAG Some of the Coolest Places to Shop in Southern California

83

That’s What She Said

43

FERRY TALE

68

Humanitarian Profile

YOU REAP WHAT YOU SEW

San Diego Local’s Minimalist Products Work to Benefit Human Trafficking Survivors

Ride With Us as We Explore Coronado

Style/Beauty Experts

TRENDY TENDENCIES

These Style and Beauty Experts are Passionate About Their Trade

51

Bridal Guide

88 Cover Story

73

MY BIG FAT SOCAL WEDDING

MAKE IT REIGN

POPPIN’ PANTONES

Tips, Tricks and Inspo to Make Your SoCal Wedding Planning Seamless

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Aussie Actress Adelaide Kane Talks Acting, Keys to Success, Mental Health and Fashion

Fashion Spread

Show Your True Colors With Sephora’s Color Poppin’ Products

LOCALE MAGAZINE

TA BL E CO NTEN T S of

JUNE 2017

22

LOCALENDAR

GO/DO

20 Summer Approved San Diego Events

INTO THE WILD

Experience a Luxurious Adventure to South Africa

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

Where to be Monday-Sunday

INSTA-STYLE

Trendsetting Instagrams We Love

EAT/DRINK

156

Escape: South Africa

26

34

HOME/AWAY

117

36 Splash House Essentials

SPLISH SPLASH

136

Five Must-Haves for This Year’s Splash House

Opening Day After Party

100

AFTER THE PARTY, IT’S THE AFTERPARTY

Summer Michelada

A METHOD TO MICHELADA MADNESS

Do Expert

A CHILD SHALL LEAD THEM Meet Seven Young Influencers Who Have Made Their Passions a Reality

164

Setting the Table

CALIFORNIALOHA

Executive Chef Steven Riemer Takes Us on a Mini Foodie Vacay to Hawaii

Celebrate Summer With a Modelo Michelada at Red O Taste of Mexico

106 Drink Deconstructed

IT PACKS A PUNCH

Sip on Something Sweet at Oxford Social Club

112 Bomb Bloodies

103

Meals Deconstructed

UN-BOWL-LIEVABLE

Sous Chef Ami Cisneros Dissects Pacific Standard Coastal Kitchen’s Salmon Bowl

ABSOBLOODYLUTELY

140

Do Profile

A JOURNEY OF 5 MILLION STEPS

Extreme Endurance Athlete and American Patriot Conquers the Country One Step at a Time

170

Away Feature

FRESH SQUEEZED FUN

Spend Your Vegas Vacay at the Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino

Bacon, Burgers, and Celery Topped Goodness

132 Winner, Winner

EASY RIDER

Jockey Extraordinaire Joe Talamo Prepares for a Big Season at the Del Mar Race Track

134 Spend Your Summer at Del Mar

109

Eat Expert

NOT YOUR AVERAGE HEROES

Craig Applegate and Clayton Wheeler Dish on All Things Board & Brew

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AND THEY’RE OFF!

146

176

First Timer's Guide

Su Casa

THE COAST IS CLEAR

SUNSHINE POINT

A Weekend in Santa Barbara, the Local Way

This $6 Million Point Loma Home is What Dreams Are Made Of

There’s So Much to See and Explore at the Del Mar Racetrack This Summer

After the Del Mar Races, This is Where the Real Party Begins

138 Music Spotlight

LOCAL SOUND: ELISE TROUW La Jolla Local Elise Trouw Doesn’t Miss a Beat

144 The Pool House

SOPHISTICATED SUNBATHING The Pool House Isn’t Your Average Pool Party

154 Harrah’s Poolside

JUST ADD WATER

Harrah's Resort Southern California Boasts Summer Fun and Swim-Up Bar

168 Viva Los Cabos

YOU NEED A SIESTA

Reasons to Book Your Next Trip to Mexico at the Sheraton Grand Los Cabos Hacienda del Mar

®

All rights reserved © 2017, the entire contents of this publication are protected by copyright. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in retrieval system or transmitted in any forms or by any means without express written prior permission of the copyright owner.

LOCALE MAGAZINE

ph: 949.436.8910 | fax: 949.682.4807 info@localemagazine.com Locale Magazine is printed by SOUTHWEST OFFSET PRINTING 13650 Gramercy Pl, Gardena, CA 90249 | 310.323.0112 | www.southwestoffset.com

COVER

Photographed By: Giuseppe DeMasi, demasiphotography.com | @demasistyle Model: Adelaide Kane, @adelaidekane Location: The Pool House at Pendry San Diego, 550 J St, San Diego, CA 92101 619.738.7000 | www.pendryhotels.com/san-diego Styled By: Johnny Chavez, @jchav5 and Jennifer Patterson, @jenniefromthebrush Makeup By: Lisa Leedy, lisa-leedy.com | @lisaleedybeautydesign Hair By: Kristee Tamulis, @kristeet Swimsuit Provided By: Sauvage Swimwear, www.sauvagewear.com Additional Camera Accessories Provided By: AquaTech Imaging Solutions, aquatech.net

MAKING THE ISSUE Braving a 4 a.m. wakeup call the night after NYLON Magazine’s Young Hollywood Party to ensure she made it to San Diego bright and early, Adelaide Kane skipped into our room at Pendry San Diego in the Gaslamp Quarter. She donned a classic white v-neck, boyfriend jeans and black patent loafers. She headed straight towards hair and makeup, exclaiming “Make me beautiful!” to makeup artist Lisa Leedy and hair stylist Kristee Tamulis. A few minutes later, she sat happily in her chair, taking sips of her unsweetened latte from Pendry's Provisional, while Leedy applied FACE atelier, Murad and Make-up Designory Cosmetics products and Tamulis styled her short bob into soft waves using Davines products. “Adelaide had beautiful skin that I wanted to shine through in the images,” said Leedy. “I accentuated her dark features with a subtle brown smokey eye look that was versatile throughout all the looks of the day.”

Soon stylists Johnny Chavez and Jennifer Patterson walked in, bringing a slew of outfit and accessory options including edgy bikinis and monokinis from San Diego’s own Sauvage Swimwear. “For this shoot with Adelaide, I wanted to play with colors and still keep it modern and classic,” Chavez says.

“Her outfits needed to bring this sort of elegance, confidence, and sophistication to her looks.”

When it came time to shoot, Kane fearlessly hopped onto a ledge so photographer Giuseppe DeMasi could snag photos with the stunning San Diego skyline behind her. Don’t worry; the views did not steal the show. Throughout the morning, we rotated through this rooftop location to the Pendry’s sunny rooftop Pool House to the flawlessly tiled and swanky lobby. DeMasi used the Canon 1Dx Mark II, Aquatech underwater camera housing, Profoto lighting equipment, as well as a light reflector and natural light.

“I wanted to capture her beauty and strength as a person and actress, so my aim was to juxtapose the strong compositional aspects of the city skyline and hotel architecture with gentle, beautiful and empowering poses. My goal was to make beautiful, empowering and ethereal images that will motivate the next young group of female actresses to follow their dreams,” said DeMasi.

After we captured the final shots, Kane dried off from her dip in the pool, munched on pizza from Provisional and rushed out to make it back to Los Angeles in time for late afternoon meetings. That’s a wrap!

LOCALENDAR 20 Summer Approved San Diego Events WRITTEN BY: MIMI DANG

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ENJOY LIVE MUSIC PROVIDED BY THE ACOUSTIC SPOT June 16

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GET CULTURED AT THE 5TH ANNUAL LATIN FOOD FEST August 18-August 19

www.sandiego.gov/qualcomm ¢ Help raise funds to fight

1

BET ON A WINNER AT OPENING DAY AT THE DEL MAR RACETRACK July 19

3

VISIT THE 23RD ANNUAL TASTE OF GASLAMP June 17 ¢ San Diego’s historic

¢ The unofficial start of summer begins with the Del Mar Racetrack Opening Day! The annual tradition draws spectators from all over. It’s where East Coast glamour meets Cali vibes, so bring your biggest and flashiest hat and participate in the Opening Day Hat Contest!

There will be gourmet food, a beer garden, cocktails, photo booths and, of course, horses!

Gaslamp District’s Annual Taste of Gaslamp returns to celebrate 23 years of food and culture! With over 25 restaurants participating, there will be plenty to see and taste in the 16 squareblock neighborhood from 1 to 4 p.m. Come experience the culinary style of San Diego!

Early birds can buy general admission tickets for $30 and VIP for $60.

www.dmtc.com

www.tasteofgaslamp.com

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EXPLORE THE SAN DIEGO COUNTY FAIR June 2-July 4 ¢ Home of the largest county fair in the United States and with over 1.6 million visitors, the county fair has been a family tradition, a place to gather with friends and the location of many first dates!

Flock to this event to grub on giant corn dogs, sip on cool lemonades, dance your heart out, and hop on a ride or two.

This year’s theme is “Where the West is Fun,” and they will also be offering a season pass to enjoy all 26 days of the fair for just $26. www.sdfair.com

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ENJOY DIVE-IN THEATER’S SCREENING OF AUSTIN POWERS: INTERNATIONAL MAN OF MYSTERY June 14 ¢ The Pearl Hotel presents

its “Dive-In Theatre,” which combines lounging at the pool and watching your favorite movies under the stars. It is a free weekly event, so if you miss one there’s no need to worry! Watch the movie poolside, or even in the pool.

Whatever floats your boat! www.thepearlsd.com

¢ Grab your besties and head to Backyard Kitchen & Tap to listen to K. Emeline & the Fellas Band rock the mic in Pacific Beach. Expect a little of all genres remixed together to guarantee a good ‘ol time.

So sip your fave cocktail and clink to funky beats from 7:30 to 10 p.m. www.theacousticspot.com

6

DANCE TILL YOU DROP AT THE VANS WARPED TOUR August 5 ¢ The Warped Tour is coming

to San Diego at the Qualcomm Stadium. This tour is the largest traveling music festival in the United States, as well as the longest running in North America. Up and coming stars and well known acts like No Doubt, Green Day, Weezer and even Katy Perry have made an appearance in the past, so don’t miss out! www.vanswarpedtour.com

7

EXPLORE AT FARM TO BAY August 5

¢ Do sea turtles make you smile? Do you cry over how ridiculously cute otters are?

If you have a passion for protecting the coastal wildlife, the Living Coast Discovery Center is the place to visit!

Now in it’s 8th year, the event will host 40 food and beverage vendors, animals and live music while raising funds to educate attendees about wildlife and sustainability. www.thelivingcoast.org

The games are played in 14 stadiums across the entire US and will make their appearance at the Qualcomm Stadium on July 9. Be ready to holler “GOAL!”

against hunger! It’s America’s largest annual hispanic culinary event, and has caught the attention of TV personality and top chef Aarón Sanchez. If you’re about bold flavors of Mexico, or the freshness of Peruvian ceviche, this event is for you! www.latinfoodfest.com

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CHEER ON YOUR TEAM AT THE CONCACAF GOLD CUP July 9 ¢ Come see 12 countries battle it out! The CONCACAF Gold Cup is a premier soccer event for national teams within North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.

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WATCH LA LA LAND AT THE SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY August 12 ¢ Winner of five Academy Awards including Best Original Score and Best Original Song, La La Land is a ‘40s and ‘50s musical inspired love story based in modern day Los Angeles. Think studio lots, soundstages and technicolor dreams. The film begins at 7:30 p.m. and will be shown on screen with a live accompaniment by the San Diego Symphony and guest jazz artists. www.sandiegosymphony.org

LOCALENDAR 20 Summer Approved San Diego Events WRITTEN BY: MIMI DANG

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¢ The Annual Over-TheLine-Tournament returns for two weekends at Fiesta Island in Mission Bay Park.

It’s softball played with two teams consisting of three players, and all on the beach!

The tournament serves as a fundraiser for Old Mission Beach Athletic Club, and is played by locals of all ages.

The game starts at 7:30 a.m. sharp and ends with a beautiful sunset.

¢ Having run 1,200 performances when it first played on Broadway in the ‘50s, Guys and Dolls is an oddball classic with a bit of romance and whole lot of fun. Songs like “Luck Be a Lady,” “I’ve Never Been in Love Before,” and “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat” have become classic American tunes, so the show will have your feet tapping and a smile that stretches from ear to ear!

www.ombac.org

www.theoldglobe.org

EAT GREAT FARE AT THE 9TH ANNUAL TASTE OF LA MESA June 12

SIP ON BREWS AT THE SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL BEER FESTIVAL June 16-June 18

EXPERIENCE THE 64TH ANNUAL OVER-THE-LINETOURNAMENT July 8-July 9 & July 15-July 16

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CHECK OUT HARRAH’S RESORT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA'S 15TH ANNUAL BEER & SAKE FESTIVAL June 16

¢ Featuring over 100 varieties of sake, local craft beers, and delicious bites from some of San Diego’s top chefs, the 15th Annual Beer & Sake Festival is a unique charity event that supports the Japan Society of San Diego and Tijuana's numerous educational programs and activities. The event will be held in The Events Center at Harrah’s Resort SoCal from 7 to 10 p.m. on Friday, June 16. www.harrahssocal.com

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EXPERIENCE COMIC-CON INTERNATIONAL July 20-July 23 ¢ Comic-Con International

returns to the San Diego Convention Center. There will be plenty of exciting panels, exhibits, and booths to visit as well as fantastic costumes!

With past special guests like Stan Lee, Guillermo Del Toro, and the cast of “Archer,” tickets will sell out fast! www.comic-con.org 24 LOCALE MAGAZINE

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SING ALONG TO ED SHEERAN AT VALLEY VIEW CASINO CENTER August 6 ¢ With his new album release this past January, Ed Sheeran hit the ground running with a North American tour. His single “Shape of You” is one of many chart toppers that will be played, and his live shows are said to be a triumph. His adoring fans get to experience Ed’s endearing and witty humor, his guitar, and the sweet sounds of his heavenly voice. Doors open 6:30 p.m. www.valleyviewcasinocenter.com

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ATTEND THE SD PADRES VS. LA DODGERS GAME June 30 ¢ Load up on peanuts,

crackerjacks and hotdogs as you cheer your team to victory! There’s no better way to spend a warm summer evening than watching a ball game with friends and family. It starts at 7:10 p.m., so pile in the Uber and let the games begin! www.mlb.com/padres

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CATCH SOME WAVES AT THE REVOLT SUMMER SURF SERIES June 17, July 15, Sept. 9 & Oct. 7 ¢ This surf series provides a

stage for male and female, pro and amateur, surfers. New surfers get to show off and advance their skills as well as learn from the pros. Held in both Ocean Beach and Pacific Beach, the series provides the fun and excitement of a surf competition without fighting for a view. Bring your swimsuit, a towel and plenty of SPF! www.revoltsurfseries.com

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CELEBRATE THE BIG BAY BOOM AT THE SAN DIEGO BAY July 4 ¢ Celebrate America’s biggest holiday with a massive 4th of July fireworks display! There will be four different barges launching fireworks in the North Bay, with 18 minutes of pyrotechnic art and four designated locations to view the show. Over 500,000 people come to this event, so this will be an Independence Day spectacular that you don’t want to miss! Tip: Get there early to find seats. Showtime is from 8 to 9:30 p.m. www.bigbayboom.com

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SING ALONG TO GUYS AND DOLLS AT THE OLD GLOBE THEATER July 2-August 13

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¢ Get ready to chow down at the Taste of La Mesa! You can eat to your heart’s content thanks to multiple tastings provided by local restaurants.

Held at La Mesa Community Center from 6 to 8 p.m. for general admission, come and support your community and see how much you can balance on one plate!

¢ This is California’s biggest

www.lamesachamber.net

www.sandiegobeerfestival.com

beer festival with nearly 200 breweries from California and all over the world. It doesn’t matter if you’re a beer connoisseur or just a casual drinker. If you love hops, this festival is your haven! There will be accoutrements to complement your brews, along with plenty of fun and games.

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY

FAMILY GUY

A Local’s Breakdown of His Favorite Weekly Spots

“One of my favorite routes is to run from Pendry San Diego to Harbor Island.

Nothing beats running along the water!”

EXPERT: Michael O'Donohue CREDENTIALS: General Manager at Pendry San Diego

MONDAY ¢ If the weather is right (and it usually is in San Diego), I like to take my 12 p.m. meeting to The Pool House for lunch. My favorite is the Big Eye Tuna Poke bowl with half rice and half salad. pendryhotels.com/san-diego/ dining/pool-house TUESDAY ¢ A favorite mid-week treat is going on a run after work.

One of my favorite routes is to run from Pendry San Diego to Harbor Island.

Nothing beats running along the water!

As a former chef, I love it! shoppigment.com solocedros.com FRIDAY ¢ Friday mornings are almost harder than Mondays, so to jumpstart my day I order an iced nonfat latte at Provisional Kitchen, Café & Mercantile with an order of the avocado toast. Or, if I was at Oxford Social Club too late, then there is nothing better than the breakfast sandwich. pendryhotels.com/san-diego/ dining/provisional SATURDAY

WEDNESDAY ¢ I always look forward to a date night with my wife at Cucina Enoteca. We love to order the Brussels sprouts— the sauce is amazing! When we want to stay in, I even recreate it at home! urbankitchengroup.com/ cucina-enoteca-del-mar/

practice with my son, we go out to brunch. One of our favorite spots is the Cottage in La Jolla. My son loves to sit on the outdoor patio while eating up the Stuffed French Toast with strawberry compote and mascarpone. cottagelajolla.com

THURSDAY ¢ Shopping at Pigment in North Park, it’s my go-to place for gifts. The last time I was there my daughter and I made a terrarium with succulents for my wife’s birthday. Another great place to shop is SoLo because of their fun selection of books, kitchen and cooking items.

SUNDAY ¢ On Sundays, I love to hike Torrey Pines with the whole family. After our hike, we head to Venissimo in Del Mar for some post-hike snacks. There is nothing better than Mt. Tam Cowgirl Creamery Cheese with grilled sourdough bread. venissimo.com

PENDRY SAN DIEGO 550 J St San Diego, CA 92101 619.738.7000 www.pendryhotels.com

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LOCALE MAGAZINE

¢ After going to lacrosse

Photographed By: Grey Lockwood

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY

STATE OF THE ART San Diego Local Shares His Favorite Places to Pass the Time

EXPERT: Dr. Ariel Plotek CREDENTIALS: Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at San Diego Museum of Art

MONDAY ¢ Coffee can be crucial on Monday mornings. I work in Balboa Park, and my favorite coffee cart is Daniel’s Coffee located in the Spanish Village. The staff there is especially sweet and they’re surrounded by great shops and galleries.

TUESDAY ¢ I’m a pretty keen swimmer and love to get in the ocean—usually the beach at Coronado. I’m also a member of the Broadway Athletic and Swim Club downtown. Nonmembers can get a day pass, and they’ve got a gorgeous outdoor pool with fantastic views of the city. broadwayathletic.com

WEDNESDAY ¢ The San Diego Museum of Art’s outdoor restaurant, Panama 66, has turned into quite a destination. They brew their own craft beer, and on Wednesday nights—if you’re in the mood for jazz—you can catch Gilbert Castellanos and his Young Lions. panama66.blogspot.com THURSDAY ¢ I think the lobby bar and the roof deck at the Westgate Hotel are two of San Diego’s best kept secrets. You wouldn’t guess if from the outside, but the place is decorated like one of the grand hotels of Europe, and the swimming pool is big and beautiful. westgatehotel.com FRIDAY

¢ When the weekend rolls

around, I get to focus on my own projects—mainly writing.

Friday after work I like to go to James Coffee Co. in Little Italy. They make great coffee and it’s a cool space, and dog-friendly. It’s where my dog met her boyfriend! jamescoffeeco.com SATURDAY ¢ I spend Saturdays in La Jolla, usually working on my novel. My favorite place to write when I need to get out of the house is the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library.

Members can borrow books, music and more (there’s also a program of recitals and studio art classes) and everyone is welcome to visit their exhibitions. It’s a fantastic institution. ljathenaeum.org SUNDAY ¢ I usually get a little bit of a later start on Sundays and like to head over to Coffee & Tea Collective in North Park. Their Belgian waffles are delicious.

When you’re done there, you can browse the wares at Gym Standard, an excellent little fashion and design shop that also shows art. coffeeandteacollective.com gymstandard.com

SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART 1450 El Prado, Balboa Park San Diego, CA 92102 619.232.7931 www.sdmart.org

Photographed By: Grey Lockwood

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LOCALE MAGAZINE

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY

SO FLOSSY

Smile Expert Robert Schaffer, DDS, Has A Family and Fun-Filled Week

“Padres games are great family fun, and they highlight a lot of local favorites.

We love grabbing Hodads at the game! Go, Padres!”

EXPERT: Robert Schaffer, DDS CREDENTIALS: Founder, Schaffer Dental Excellence

MONDAY ¢ I like to begin my week at The Bay Club. Getting a workout in before work helps me get focused for a great week of transforming people's smiles! Great workout and a refreshing smoothie! bayclubs.com TUESDAY ¢ In our house, it's Taco Tuesday! My four kids love tacos. We love going to The Taco Stand in Encinitas.

And for dessert, our new favorite spot in Encinitas is JoJo's Creamery; the Cayenne Sea Salt Caramel is my absolute favorite! letstaco.com jojoscreamery.com WEDNESDAY

¢ After a long and exciting day

of work, I need to relax and get my body right. Dr. Mashike at Results Chiropractic gets me functioning at full speed again. mashikechiropractic.com THURSDAY

¢ It's date night for me and

my bride. We love the movies.

We love having dinner and drinks too. The Lot in La Jolla lets us do all of this in one amazing setting! thelotent.com

SCHAFFER DENTAL EXCELLENCE 12750 Carmel Country Rd, Ste 205 San Diego, CA 92130 858.481.1148 www.schafferdental.com

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FRIDAY ¢ It's Friday night lights for my son. We love football in our family, and my son plays football with his friends from school. After a victory, the whole team goes to Pizza Port in Carlsbad to celebrate.

What a great time! Football, family, friends, pizza and great craft beers. pizzaport.com SATURDAY ¢ The weekend is for spending time with the family! We like to hike Torrey Pines or go paddle boarding in Cardiff. After a great day in the sun, we like to grab food at Rimel's in Cardiff.

Their green sauce and fish tacos are addictive! rimelsrestaurants.com/ cardiff-by-the-sea SUNDAY ¢ We like to venture downtown and catch a Padres game or go to Coronado. Both places are family favorites. Padres games are great family fun, and they highlight a lot of local favorites. We love grabbing Hodad’s at the game! Go, Padres! sandiego.padres.mlb.com

Photographed By: Grey Lockwood

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE

BY LOCALS FOR LOCALS /// WHERE TO BE MONDAY-SUNDAY

EYE SEE YOU

“Find a homie with the border speed pass and hit up Tacos El Franc in Tijuana. You can go ham AF and still walk away with a bill under $10.”

9FIVE Eyewear Founder Mike Metcalf is All About Hearty SD Grub

EXPERT: Mike Metcalf CREDENTIALS: Owner & Director of Marketing for 9FIVE Eyewear

MONDAY ¢ If I had a long weekend, I’ll head straight to a bar in Chula Vista called On the Rocks. Go for the drinks, stay for karaoke.

TUESDAY ¢ Taco Tuesday fam. Find a homie with the border speed pass and hit up Tacos El Franc in Tijuana. You can go ham AF and still walk away with a bill under $10, and they give you an entire roll of paper towels with every meal.

WEDNESDAY ¢ Someone just recently brought me to Coin-Op Game Room in North Park and I completely fell in lust. A full bar with the finest selection of ‘90s arcade games…I’ll spend all day here and not feel bad about it. Not one bit bruh. coinopsd.com

breakfast. Back to sleep by 3 p.m. karinasseafood.com SATURDAY ¢ Montevalle skatepark in Chula Vista is the closest one to my house. Let the week seep out of my pores as I live in the past.

SUNDAY ¢ Tavern + Bowl is a good place to watch whatever game might be on. For food, Lolita’s is next door.

Strike! tavernbowl.com

THURSDAY ¢ Lolita’s in Eastlake will get you nice and plump before you head into the weekend.

Fatten up with a Monster Burrito and slosh it down with a couple of their extra bloated craft beer offerings.

About 1200-1800 calories per sitting. YOLO. lolitasmexicanfood.com FRIDAY ¢ I like to go all-in at Karina’s in Otay Ranch Mall with a mariscos based

Photoshoot Location: 9FIVE EYEWEAR 3778 30th St San Diego, CA 92104 619.431.5538 www.9FIVE.com

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Photographed By: Grey Lockwood

IN STA- STYLE Trendsetting Instagrams We

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CATAMARAN WEDDINGS @catamaranweddings

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5&A DIME @5andadime

LOVE, OLIA Olia Majd @oliamajd

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FASHIONEDCHIC Erica Hoida @fashionedchicstyling

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FASHION WEEK SAN DIEGO @fashionweeksd

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FERN @fernleucadia

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HELLO BIRDIE NAIL & LASH LAB @hellobirdielab

HOSTESS HAVEN Farra Miron @hostesshaven

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PURA VIDA BRACELETS @puravidabracelets

F O LLO W LO CA LE M AG A Z I N E O N I N STAG R A M @localemagazine • #localemagazine

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From the Pages Of LOCALE GREATER PALM SPRINGS

Splish Splash Five Must-Haves for This Year’s Splash House 1

WRITTEN BY: KELLY EMMER

Our Goldenvoice festivals have come to an end, but our season is only getting hotter in the valley! As temperatures creep over 100, you find yourself poolside, in need of some attention-grabbing accessories. We caught up with designers Trina Turk, Mr. Turk, Jonathan Adler and Diane’s Beachwear to highlight their hottest Palm Springs Splash House pool party must-haves.

1

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FLOAT ON Diane’s Beachwear

SNAP THIS Diane’s Beachwear

> You’ll be the life of the party with the Sunnylife inflatable flamingo drink holder ($18). This unique inflatable will hold up to four drinks for you and your friends, ensuring you won’t need to leave the pool for a refill anytime soon! Grab a few to accommodate an entire Splash House soiree! dianesbeachwear.com

> A great party involves wonderful memories!

There is no better way to capture great memories poolside than with the Sunnylife Avalon Underwater Camera ($20). This camera can be submerged up to two meters and uses 35mm film (not included), perfect for capturing your Splash House underwater dance party with friends. dianesbeachwear.com

2 SHARP SHORTS Mr. Turk > Mr. Turk swimwear has perfect eye-catching desert patterns for men enjoying the Splash House pool party. The Zuma Beach board short ($168) has a front tie and desert pattern in strong blue and yellow hues. The safari board short ($178), interprets the spirit of the island with a multitude of colorful options for those interested in variety for the party! mrturk.com

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4 DRY OFF Jonathan Adler > No swimmer or sunbathing partygoer should ever be without the Jonathan Adler Honeycomb beach towel ($98). The towel comes in a variety of bright, bold mosaic patterns sure to be a showstopper at any party. There are so many different color and pattern options with this cotton towel, you can perfectly accessorize with your new Trina or Mr. Turk swimwear! jonathanadler.com

5 SUIT UP Trina Turk > Trina Turk swimwear highlights bikinis, perfect for lounging poolside.

This bralette bikini top ($80) is perfect for the sporty swimmer with all-around coverage and a tie cross back. The batik-style is perfect for warm California days, and the matching California Hipster bottom ($72), brings a new meaning to fashionable swimming and sunbathing. trinaturk.com

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This is definitely an eyecatcher for any party!

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*All prices are MSRP

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PHOTO BY: Bhadri Kubendran

STYLE

///BEAUTY

JUNE 2017

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COOLEST PLACES TO SHOP Make Sure to Shop at One of These Top SoCal Destinations

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STYLE/BEAUTY EXPERTS Seven Influential Style and Beauty Experts Talk Trends

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BRIDAL GUIDE Your Complete SoCal Bridal Guide

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HUMANITARIAN PROFILE Christine Longoria of Dear Survivor Isn’t Your Average Millennial

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FASHION SPREAD 42 Sephora Products to Add Some Color Into Your Makeup Routine

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THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID Visit These 13 Spots on Your Next Visit to Coronado

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COVER STORY All Hail Queen Adelaide Kane

DEAR SURVIVOR www.dear-survivor.com @dearsurvivor GENERATEHOPE 4025 Camino del Rio South, Ste 300 San Diego, CA 92108 619.818.4026 www.generatehope.com Photoshoot Location: SAN DIEGO, CA

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HUMANITARIAN PROFILE You Reap What You Sew

San Diego Local’s Minimalist Products Work to Benefit Human Trafficking Survivors

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STYLE/BEAUTY

SHOP HERE FOR THE #SWAG Some of the Coolest Places to Shop in Southern California

San Diego RANDOMS BOUTIQUE

WRITTEN BY: TAMARA PHILIPS Shopping is more than a hobby or a weekend activity to pass the time— it’s an experience. Whether you’re browsing through racks or on a mission for one specific item, you’re sure to stop and take in all of the details of a store if it’s decorated seamlessly or has an impeccable display. Here are some of the coolest places to shop in Southern California to really gain that blissful shopping experience.

San Diego GOLD LEAF

San Diego WILD DOVE BOUTIQUE

1114 N Coast Hwy 101, Ste 1, Encinitas, CA 92024 760.419.9217 | www.randomsboutique.bigcartel.com

2225 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104 619.738.8120 | www.goldleafsouthpark.com

740 Market St, San Diego, CA 92101 619.501.5849 | www.wilddoveboutique.com

Orange County

Orange County

Los Angeles

SEPHORA

FLOWERBOY PROJECT

824 Lincoln Blvd, Venice, CA, 90291 310.452.3900 | www.flowerboyproject.com

Los Angeles

Greater Palm Springs

Greater Palm Springs

GUM TREE SHOP

LOCALE MAGAZINE

GRAYSE

73130 El Paseo, Ste H, Palm Desert, CA 92260 760.773.3303 | www.mkgrayse.com

TRINA TURK

891 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.416.2856 | www.trinaturk.com

Photos - Wild Dove Boutique: Bhadri Kubendran | Grayse: Gregg Felsen

2900 East Coast Hwy, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625 949.717.7795 | www.onquestyle.com

238 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 310.376.8733 | www.gumtreela.com

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ON QUE STYLE

3333 Bristol St, Ste 1001, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714.429.9130 | www.sephora.com

VAN DE VORT BOUTIQUE Flower Hill Promenade, 2710 Via De La Valle, Del Mar, CA 92014 | 858.720.1059 | www.shopvandevort.com

PHOTO BY: NICK ISABELLA

STYLE/BEAUTY EXPERTS

TRENDY TENDENCIES THESE STYLE AND BEAUTY EXPERTS ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT THEIR TRADE WRITTEN BY: EMILY TORRES PHOTOGRAPHED BY: BHADRI KUBENDRAN, GREY LOCKWOOD, JOSIE GONZALES AND NICK ISABELLA

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SAN DIEGO’S TOP INDUSTRY EXPERTS ARE MAKING A STATEMENT—THE CITY’S BEAUTY AND STYLE EXTENDS BEYOND THE PICTURESQUE BEACHES, STRIKING CLIFFS AND STUNNING SKYLINE. WHILE INEVITABLY INSPIRED BY THE SURROUNDING CITY, THESE EXPERTS ARE DRAWING THEIR INSPIRATION FROM THE PEOPLE OF SUNNY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA. FROM TRENDSETTING BOUTIQUE AND SWIMWEAR OWNERS TO COMPASSIONATE FITNESS PROS TO COSMETIC AND NAIL INDUSTRY GIRL BOSSES TO EYEWEAR INNOVATORS, THESE INDUSTRY EXPERTS ARE QUICKLY CREATING AND SHAPING SAN DIEGO’S BEAUTY AND STYLE INDUSTRIES. LOCALE SITS DOWN WITH THESE LOCAL LEADERS TO GET THE LOWDOWN ON THEIR CAREER, THEIR INSPIRATION AND MOTIVATION AND HOW THEIR BUSINESSES ARE SETTING THE SCENE IN SD.

WILD DOVE BOUTIQUE 740 Market St San Diego, CA 92101 619.501.5849 www.wilddoveboutique.com 44 LOCALE MAGAZINE

“I’m determined to bring them good, quality clothing that does not have to be outrageously expensive.”

–Rachel Hunt

Rodrigo Iglesias CO-OWNER OF BALANCED FITNESS & HEALTH

Photos - Wild Dove Boutique: Bhadri Kubendran | Balanced Fitness & Health: Josie Gonzales

Q: What is the story behind Balanced Fitness & Health? How did it get started?

Rodrigo Iglesias: Balanced Fitness & Health is a fully integrated functional fitness gym. We wanted to create an intimate family-oriented environment where we focus on individual results. We are not just trainers and we are not just keeping you active—we want to be life coaches. We want members to reach the balance they are looking for in their lives. At the core, we want our family to understand that two to three times a week at a gym is enough. We want people to understand the stress-relief, confidence and mental aspects of working out. We want to educate people.

When we began, we felt like the industry needed something from this educational, comprehensive standpoint, so Balanced began.

Rachel Hunt OWNER OF WILD DOVE BOUTIQUE

Q: Tell me the story behind Wild Dove Boutique.

Rachel Hunt: Wild Dove evolved from me wanting to do something that inspired and motivated me every day. I thought I had the dream job when I worked in LA, but I was definitely missing something. My fiancé's work brought us down to San Diego. When I arrived, I really saw a void in the market here.

My philosophy is that every great neighborhood needs a great boutique. I wanted to become that, so I made it happen.

Q: What is the vibe of Wild Dove Boutique?

RH: We are very effortless and clean. We seek simplicity. With our pieces, we ask, ‘Can you wear this with sneakers? Can you dress this up?’ San Diego is all about multi-functional fashion. We want our customers to look very put together, but have an outfit that’s easy to throw together. Our clients range from 25-65, so we have a balance of pieces.

Q: What are some upcoming trends that San Diegans should be aware of?

RH: Every girl needs a wide leg jumper this summer. It's just so effortless, yet total cool girl.

Don't be afraid of two piece prints either. We love our Show Me Your Mumu floral sets because of the endless outfit options you have. Wear head to toe florals or mix with a stripe or chambray.

Q: What inspires you?

RH: My customers inspire me! I get to meet new people every day and hear their stories. I am always so humbled when someone comes back in and thanks me because of the amount of compliments she received or how amazing she felt. Downtown is such a small community and it has been really rewarding to become part of that and create these lasting relationships with my customers.

Q: San Diego is among the healthiest cities in the United States and is teeming with boutique studios and big gyms.

What makes Balanced Fitness & Health different from other fitness spots in San Diego?

RI: We are a boutique-style fitness center, but what makes us different is the customer service aspect. Since we are small, we can put attention to our members. We want to make their day better than when they walked in. That starts with the front desk and leads into our trainers in the gym—everywhere at Balanced.

Q: What are you most passionate about in the health and fitness industry?

RI: I get a kick out of helping people be and feel better. I love when people come in and feel differently. I love when their health and fitness positively affects their relationships. When I talk to our members and they say, ‘thank you’—it’s the best thing.

We get to hear stories and get to know people through the positive changes we are helping them make in their lives; seeing how a healthy lifestyle can affect much more than just physical appearance, and sharing in those triumphs, is truly rewarding.

Q: As a fitness professional who cares for others’ physical and mental health, what advice would you give someone who wants to transition to a healthier lifestyle?

RI: It starts with baby steps. Big goals can discourage people, so break it down. Depending on their goals, you do not need to go cold turkey with carbs, proteins and so on. Let’s just take what you do now and do it in moderation. Focus on long-term consistency rather than 100 percent for just a few weeks.

BALANCED FITNESS & HEALTH 1130 Seventh Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 619.326.8429 | www.balancedfitnesshealth.com

LOCALE MAGAZINE 45

“I want to lead the industry towards fashion—elevate swimwear to fashion.”

—Elizabeth Southwood

46 LOCALE MAGAZINE

“I like seeing the process from start to finish. I love seeing the final result on someone.”

—Elizabeth Southwood

Charlie Anderson VP OF SALES AT OTIS EYEWEAR

Elizabeth Southwood Photos - Sauvage Swimwear & Otis Eyewear: Grey Lockwood

CO-OWNER OF SAUVAGE SWIMWEAR Q: Tell me about how you got your start in the swimwear industry.

Elizabeth Southwood: It was quite by accident, really! I was making things for other people and started making swimsuits for friends. My partner decided he would take the pieces and start selling them. We started in our garage; it was a very small start.

ES: Definitely the design aspect. I like seeing the process from start to finish. I love seeing the final result on someone; it’s a great feeling when it looks and fits great as a final product. I really am inspired by everything—travel and colors. We do a lot of research too on the web to gauge the mood in the fashion industry. We like to give our swimwear a fashion edge.

Q: Tell me about your day-to-day.

ES: I am actually starting to prepare for next season already. I’m working to cut samples and organize that collection. It will all be presented in Miami in July. We’re a full year ahead in this industry! Typically, I work with quality control and design. I make sure everything looks great and fits great. Simon [Southwood] is more on the business end.

Q: How do you want Sauvage to shape the swimwear industry?

ES: I want to lead the industry towards fashion— elevate swimwear to fashion. We just finished a huge velvet collection, which is just taking off. It’s a luxurious fabric that you can swim in. It comes from Italy and is very high fashion right now. We also have been working on layered swimsuits and coverups, as well as great one pieces that girls can wear with jeans to look like a bodysuit.

Q: What are you most passionate about with Sauvage? What inspires you?

Photoshoot Location: SAUVAGE SWIMWEAR Warehouse 7717 Formula Pl San Diego, CA 92121 858.408.0100

Flagship Store 1025 Prospect Ave La Jolla, CA 92037 858.729.0015 www.sauvagewear.com

Q: Tell me how you got your start in the eyewear industry. Did you know you wanted a career in this area?

Charlie Anderson: Well, about 24 years ago, I was brought on during the launch of Dragon Optical as Regional Sales Manager for the West Coast with two good friends. I knew I wanted a career in the action sports industry, and this was my first break in. It was a different time back then in retail and for launching new brands, it was kind of like the Wild West. There was no Internet! Can you imagine?

Q: What differentiates Otis in a saturated eyewear market?

CA: Otis stands apart by focusing entirely on mineral glass lenses.

We offer an alternative to the slew of plastic lens products in the market. It is a different way of building eyewear. Mineral glass is the most scratch-resistant, distortion-free and optically-correct lens material in the world. It’s also a natural material made of sand and soda ash. We are delivering a true premium product with benefits that can be easily communicated to customers.

Q: What inspires you?

CA: I am inspired by the people I surround myself with, and I always want to win! I have a quiet inner drive to be the best at what I do, but I am humble and grateful in my approach.

Q: What new products can consumers look forward to?

CA: You will start to see a solid mix of wearable fashion products, function-based designs and a really strong women’s line being launched this year. We have found that women gravitate to Otis because we design specifically for them, a product they can feel confident in. If you look around the market, you either get quality or fashion, but very few brands offer the best of both worlds.

This is our goal. In 2018, we will be launching an exclusive lens technology with mineral glass so keep an eye out.

OTIS EYEWEAR 4015 Avenida de la Plata, Ste 402 Oceanside, CA 92056 760.806.9283 www.us.otiseyewear.com

LOCALE MAGAZINE 47

KATHERINE COSMETICS www.katherinecosmetics.com @katherinecosmetics Photoshoot Location: CAPSYL SALON 2690 Via De La Valle, D150 Del Mar, CA 92014 858.354.3997

Andrea Van De Vort OWNER OF VAN DE VORT BOUTIQUE Q: Tell me how Van De Vort got started.

Andrea Van De Vort: I was working in the fashion industry in LA as a sales rep for a few Australian labels.

It always baffled me how my account list for San Diego was so small. There weren’t boutiques that fit the vibe of these amazing brands that were so coveted in LA. I started dating my husband who is from Del Mar, and once we got married, I moved down here and thought it would be a perfect opportunity to create a store that carried all of these lines. I took the risk and opened in 2013. After one year of business, we doubled in size and expanded into the shop next to us, which was actually the space where I bought my wedding dress years prior!

Q: What is the vibe of Van De Vort?

AV: I guess you would call it ‘boho-chic.’ However, that term is evolving. We definitely stay on top of trends but cater to anyone that walks in the door. You can find a statement piece for a music festival, a pretty dress for a wedding and tons of easy-to-wear outfits for the casual San Diego lifestyle. Our clients range from college students to ladies in their 50s—there’s really something for everyone at our shop.

Q: What does your day-to-day look like?

AV: My day-to-day is crazy! It’s a juggling act of mom-ing and owning two businesses. I’m in and out of the shop, the office, the park, the grocery store a few times a day and traveling up to LA for meetings! Every day is different, and I won’t lie, I am tired. But it’s all worth it!

Q: How do you want Van De Vort to shape the style scene in San Diego?

AV: I hope that Van De Vort continues to stay on top of the game, always being the first to offer new trends and help people go outside of their comfort zone. My favorite thing is when shoppers end up buying something they never would have tried on without the help of our stylists. I hope Van De Vort gives people the confidence to stand out in a crowd!

VAN DE VORT BOUTIQUE Flower Hill Promenade 2710 Via De La Valle, Del Mar, CA 92014 858.720.1059 | www.shopvandevort.com

48 LOCALE MAGAZINE

“I just added a new date night line too—whether it’s for prom, your wedding or your Tinder date.”

—Katherine Finch

Cindy Cate Katherine Finch Photos - Van De Vort Boutique & Katherine Cosmetics: Nick Isabella | Hello Birdie Nail and Lash Lab: Josie Gonzales

FOUNDER AND CEO AT KATHERINE COSMETICS Q: Tell me how you got started in the cosmetics industry. Did you know you wanted a career in this?

Katherine Finch: Growing up, I owned every shade of eyeshadow from Elizabeth Arden. I’ve always worn a ton of makeup, but didn’t understand the industry. When I was in college, I started selling makeup and told my mom I was going to get a career in the industry when I graduated. Estee Lauder finally hired me, and I worked at counters, eventually becoming a regional executive. When I moved to NYC, I ran sales, marketing, product development and special events! I was the fix-it girl in the corner office. Every time a general manager came from another country, I trained them. I got to run the world for a billion dollar brand!

When I was ready to launch Katherine Cosmetics, I went back to Estee Lauder to thank them for everything. They’re a force in the industry and to have their knowledge, talent, skills and connections is amazing.

Q: What’s the story behind Katherine Cosmetics? What differentiates the brand?

KF: I got married and continued to ride horses. I needed makeup with SPF, but I was searching for products that I couldn’t find. I decided to make the products I wanted. People told me that women didn’t wear makeup when they worked out, but I was the first one to talk about girls wearing makeup while

wearing workout clothes. So, I created an everyday line and a sport line. I just added a new date night line too— whether it’s for prom, your wedding or your Tinder date.

Q: Tell me a little bit about Katherine Cosmetics’ affiliation with charity.

KF: We have a lipstick line inspired by my friends and mother. My friends are all wonderful people who give back, so each time a shade is sold, that friend’s charity is given $1. Each November, we also do the Katherine Girls giving back week. Katherine Girls pick a charity and for a week, 20 percent of everything sold goes to those charities. Most Katherine Girls are younger (15-30). It shows them how they can make a difference.

Q: Who are your ideal consumers?

How do you want them to feel wearing these products?

KF: The products were made for myself—line filling and moisturizing.

Because of the quality and colors, young girls are loving them when they first see them on social media. Younger girls will find the brand, and moms end up borrowing it from their daughters!

Our approach is wearing makeup so you feel confident and pretty. If you feel pretty, you’re confident. When you’re confident, you can accomplish so much more—whether it’s pushing harder in spin class, going for a job interview or saving the puppies!

OWNER OF HELLO BIRDIE NAIL AND LASH LAB Q: Tell me how you got started in the beauty industry. Did you always know you wanted a career in this?

Cindy Cate: I have always worked for small businesses in different industries, and I had an appreciation for that. I didn’t know what the business would be. Then, along this journey, I came to The Lab and managed the hair salon for three years. It sparked my interest in the beauty industry. I realized I wanted to do something where people could be creative. Our main service is nail art, and I wanted to create a business where we could hire artists.

Q: What inspires you in this industry?

CC: What mainly inspires me is the changes that come about; the industry is constantly changing and growing at a fast pace.

Nails are becoming more and more acknowledged in the fashion industry. You now see nail art incorporated on the runway. It’s becoming valued more. People want something more than the average five-dot flower. I am just really inspired by the creativity and everything new that is coming onto the scene.

Q: What do you want your customers to leave with from Hello Birdie?

CC: Honestly, I want people to come in and leave everything at the door—their fast-paced, busy lives. This is a place they can enjoy their time in, whether it be relaxing with a friend for a pedicure or sitting down with a nail artist and working out something creative they had in mind. Customers leave and feel like they’ve had a chance to feed their soul. Ultimately, we want our customers to feel like they are part of the family. They’re Birdie Babes!

Q: How do you want Hello Birdie to shape the beauty scene in San Diego?

CC: I want to raise the bar in San Diego. [Clients] should expect a clean, friendly, quality service. It’s all too often they go elsewhere and get a gel polish or acrylics with products that are not safe and good for the health of their nails. They go and get lash services that are clumped together and aren’t the healthy size for their lashes. Client health and satisfaction comes first for us.

HELLO BIRDIE NAIL AND LASH LAB 3032 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104 619.358.9875 | www.hellobirdielab.com

LOCALE MAGAZINE 49

Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE

My

BIG FAT

‚

WRITTEN BY: ASHLEY RUIZ, ELENA KHURY, ERICA JOHNSON, KARLI KARANDOS, & RANDI SLUSHER

SoCal

WEDDING TIPS, TRICKS AND INSPO TO MAKE YOUR SoCal WEDDING PLANNING SEAMLESS

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Photos - Jesi Haack Design: Ryan Ray

Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE

MAKEUP

Infused with natural clay harvested from the banks of the Amazon River and naturally baked by the sun, this nutrientrich blush benefits all skin types for a fade-free flawless finish that lasts an amazing 12 hours.

SEPHORA, Tarte Blush sephora.com

HONEYMOON

At The Shore Club, the only limit is your imagination. Defined by a spirit of relaxed luxury, refreshing adventure, healthy indulgence, and exclusive accessibility, it’s a place where you can do exactly what you desire.

The Shore Club Turks and Caicos theshoreclubtc.com

RING

Alber Rezko Jewelry Designs uses innovative techniques and profound elements when designing engagement rings.

Alber Rezko Jewelry alberrezko.com

Breezy & BEACHY Where the Sand Meets the Sea is Your Comfort Zone

VENUE

If you are looking for the perfect beachfront wedding venue, look no further than Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica. The Pacific Terrace venue provides the best location to say “I Do.” Shutters on the Beach shuttersonthebeach.com

Written By: Elena Khury DECOR

We are loving bright, fun pops of color for beach weddings. It is all about fresh color and brightness.

Jesi Haack Design jesihaackdesign.com

GOWN

For the bride who prefers turquoise to diamonds, wildflowers to roses, or braids to formal up-do’s, designer Claire Pettibone has created Romantique— perfect for the beach bride.

Claire Pettibone clairepettibone.com

CAKE

Their pastry chefs will work with the couple to create any cake they want.

It can be any flavor, any number of layers and they can decorate it however the couple wants.

Ritz Carlton ritzcarlton.com/ en/hotels/ california/lagunaniguel

“JUST MARRIED” CONVERTIBLE CAR

Looking for the perfect car to drive off after you say “I Do”? Look no further than Hoehn Motor Cars. They will get you in the perfect convertible car to drive off to your future in style.

Hoehn Motor Cars hoehnmotors.com

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FLOWERS

Theresa Anderson founded this floral hotspot in 2012. These elegant yet simple arrangements are a beautiful touch to any wedding.

Petals and Pop petalsandpop.com

Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE

FLOWERS

HAIR STYLIST TIPS

The talented designers at Bloomers La Jolla can bring the Boho aesthetic to your ceremony with just the right mix of flowers, colors and textures. Favorite flower suggestions for the Boho Bride are Astilbe, a beautiful lacey looking wildflower that adds a delicate touch of timeless elegance to a bouquet or boutonnière.

Bloomers La Jolla bloomersflowerslajolla.com

HONEYMOON

Whether you enjoy gorgeous scenery, secluded walks on the beach or a little adventure in the mountains, Catalina will fill your days with fun and your nights with romance. Santa Catalina Island Company will create a custom package and ensure that your Honeymoon is truly unforgettable.

Santa Catalina Island Company visitcatalinaisland.com

Ibrahim (Brian) Kudsi:

Owner of Kud’Ci Salon, Corona Del Mar Brian’s Top 5 Tips for Today’s Bride: 1. Choose a stylist that you can trust and feel comfortable with 2. Don't make any drastic changes to your hair or hair color just before your wedding day 3. Work with your stylist on reaching all your hair goals prior to the big day

RING

Any combination of custom finishes and gemstones are available to create your timeless masterpiece.

Traditional Jewelers traditionaljewelers.com

4. Wear a button-up top to ensure your style stays in tact while you get ready

Boho CHIC

5. Relax and enjoy your special day!

Kud’Ci Salon 949.675.5053

Key Rustic Elements for the Perfect Bohemian Bride Written By: Erica Johnson

INVITES

Invitations for your shower, engagement party, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner and ceremony can be customized to fit your style and the venue you have picked for that special day.

Where’s The Party? wheresthepartyoc.com

DECOR

Make your ceremony truly spectacular with special pieces such as wicker peacock chairs, Moroccan furniture, tapestries and Persian rugs.

Pow Wow Design Coordination Studios powwowdesignstudio.com

GOWN

Pastry Chef, Albert Gonzalez, can create a custom wedding cake prepared on-site. The personal attention that owner Willie Rhine offers in planning each event creates an experience that is authentic, leaving guests with the feeling that every detail was created just for them.

Eight4Nine Restaurant & Lounge eight4nine.com

54 LOCALE MAGAZINE

VENUE

Able to accommodate groups up to 160 attendees, Solterra features rustic Mediterranean cuisine to pair with their award winning selection of wines.

Solterra Winery solterrawinery.com

Photos - Pow Wow Design Coordination Studios: Logan Cole

CAKE

Tara Lauren Spring 2017 "Seafarer Collection” features textured Battenburg lace, soft touches of color, billowy crepe de chine, as well as modern cuts and silhouettes to capture a dreamy but chic wedding look.

Tara Lauren tara-lauren.com

Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE

VENUE

There is no better place for the alternative bride to say, "I do," than in the midst of the Santa Rosa Mountains, surrounded by lush valleys and free-roaming giraffes!

Living Desert Zoo livingdesert.org

DESSERT

From the classic ooey-gooey cookies stuffed with strawberry ice cream to more exotic flavors like the pear gorgonzola with orange marmalade, the dessert table may attract more attention than the giraffes.

Chunk-N-Chip chunknchip.com

HAIR STYLIST TIPS

JUMPSUIT

Skip the ultra traditional wedding dress and go with the Bella Jumpsuit in Ivory.

Stone Cold Fox thestonecoldfox.com

Lauren Scaccia,

DECOR

Continue the theme with colorful plates, knotted brass flatware, and textured goblets to complete the look.

Soiree 8 Rentals soiree8.com

Co-Owner of Toni & Guy Fashion Island, Newport Beach

Dare to be DIFFERENT

Lauren’s Top 5 Tips for Today’s Bride: 1. Find pics of what you'd like for your hair and makeup as well as what you don't like. Having some images prepared for your stylist and makeup artist will really assist in getting great conversation going to get your desired look right.

As an Alternative Bride, Your Options are Endless Written By: Ashley Ruiz

2. Always book a consultation for hair and makeup. It's important for your big day and even better to have time to try a look or two if you're unsure.

FLOWERS

Combining her love of books and pretty things, the alternative bride will carry a custom-made bouquet of paper roses.

With Love & Petals etsy.com/shop/withloveandpetals

INVITES

Twinkle & Toast's custom stationery creates meaningful wedding stationery for inspired couples. For an alternative bride, check out cactus design to match your zoo venue.

Twinkle & Toast twinkleandtoast.com

56 LOCALE MAGAZINE

HONEYMOON

Honeymooners will gape at the blooming cherry blossoms, hike Mt. Fuji and soak in rejuvenating hot springs.

Tokyo, Japan japan-guide.com

4. Bring or have an idea of your jewelry, including any accessories you're planning on wearing in your hair.

5. Listen to what your stylist recommends.

Some find it helpful to have second day hair in order to manipulate texture better and will let you know, based on your particular hair type.

Toni & Guy toniguy.com/hairsalons/newport-beachca/fashion-island

Photos - Toni & Guy: Taylor Lewis | With Love & Petals: Photography West Ca

3. Bring pictures of your dress and share what weather you're expecting so your stylist can make recommendations for you. High winds or high heat, even a high neckline can make an impact on whether or not hair goes up or stays down.

Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE

VENUE

Nothing says romance more than saying ‘I Do’ surrounded by fresh roses, lush trees, and a beautiful lake.

Avenue of the Arts Hotel avenueoftheartshotel.com

MAKEUP

Add a pop of color to your lips so you’ll look fab when your new hubby leans in for a kiss.

Adding a lip stain, like this one from SEPHORA, is an easy way to incorporate your color palette for a complete, glamorous look.

SEPHORA Cream Lip Stain, $18 sephora.com

RING

Be bold or be different with any of the stunning rings that Winston’s Jewelers carries.

Winston’s Jewelers winstonscrownjewelers.com

Glitz & GLAM For the Bride That Won’t Shy From the Limelight Written By: Randi Slusher

HAIR STYLIST TIPS

GOWN

Look stunning in this “Antara” gown from Pronovias’ 2017 Bridal Collection.

Available in off white or optical white, this beaded dream of a wedding dress is perfect for you, Glam Bride.

Bohimi bohimi.com

“JUST MARRIED” CONVERTIBLE CAR

DETAILS

Upgrade your wedding invites and dinner menus with a little laser-cut accent.

Darla Marie Designs darlamariedesigns.com

A Mercedes represents the ultimate in luxury.

Show off your ritzy side by driving off in the “Just Married” C300 C-Cabriolet Mercedes from Fletcher Jones of Newport Beach.

Fletcher Jones Mercedes fjmercedes.com

Stroll Monaco City hand in hand and take in the breathtaking palaces and botanical gardens on almost every corner.

Admire the luxurious and grandeur architecture of Monte Carlo, Monaco.

Monte Carlo visitmonaco.com

Oscar’s Top Tips: 1. Know a direction you want to move toward, but be open to professional opinion. Your hairdresser wants you to have what you want, but also has experience with a variety of face shapes and hair textures. You may be surprised how much you like other suggestions.

Every glam bride needs some sequins in her life!

What better place for them than the sweetheart table? With delicate florals as an accent, this dreamy setup is perfect for the glitter lover.

Pure Lavish Events eventsbypurelavish.com

3. If you are receiving any color services prior to your big day, remember to do so approximately two weeks in advance.

This gives you and your colorist time to really nail your color and make any needed changes to suit the needs of your final style. Color should be placed to complement or accentuate your final style.

The Studio O thestudioo.com

Photos - The Studio O: Wil Cohen

58 LOCALE MAGAZINE

DECOR

HONEYMOON

Owner and Stylist of The Studio O, Long Beach

2. Wear a button-down shirt. The last thing any bride, or hairdresser, for that matter, wants is the final hair design being battered and deflated by removing a blouse over one’s head.

CAKE

Your wedding cake is the first thing people see when they enter your reception. Wow your guests with an over the top, four-tier wedding cake with cascading flowers.

Colette's Catering colettesevents.com

Oscar Vasquez:

Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE

WEDDING PLANNER TIPS

Wedding Party ESSENTIALS For Your Besties Standing Next to You When You Say, “I Do” Written By: Karli Karandos

MAID FOR EACH OTHER

BRIDESMAID DRESS At Vow to be Chic, they make finding the perfect bridesmaid dresses a piece of (wedding) cake by offering a wide ranging selection of different styles, colors, cuts, and more.

The best part? You can rent them!

THE WELL-GRO OMED GRO OM

SUIT Mares Menswear offers custom tailored suits and a selection of exclusive brands, so you can look like a million bucks on the big day without having to spend a fortune.

Krystel Tien

Lead Stylist, Creative Director, and Founder of Couture Events coutureeventsca.com Establish your values and priorities first!

Before you do anything else, sit down with your fiancé and discuss what is most important to you not just for the wedding, but in life, then use these things to set the values for your big day. When you are stuck on something in the planning process, refer back to your values and you will find the answer.

Mares Menswear maresmenswear.com

Vow to be Chic vowtobechic.com

Jessica Sukert CEO of Jessica Lauren Events jessicalauren.events

Don't be afraid to be bold with patterns and colors! Throw in an emerald green or a fun stripe to change things up.

BRIDESMAID GIFT A perfect gift for your bridesmaids is something they can enjoy long after the wedding festivities are over, and what better gift than a divine piece of Roberto Coin jewelry?

The timeless designs will surely bring out the beauty in every member of your bridal party.

Roberto Coin us.robertocoin.com

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE GET IN WITH GRAYSE Looking for a dress for the fabulous mother of the bride?

Look no further than Grayse's Crystal Illusion dress, which is designed specifically for women who love quality, luxury, and style.

Grayse shop.mkgrayse.com 60 LOCALE MAGAZINE

GROOMSMEN GIFT Give your groomsmen a gift they can drink and toast to such a memorable occasion! William Grant Glenfiddich whisky is the World’s Most Awarded single malt Scotch.

William Grant & Sons williamgrant.com

Aubrey Huffman + Kenzie Swift Founders of Details, Darling detailsdarling.com

BOW TIE Keep your groomsmen looking dapper with a unique bowtie from Lord Wallington, where craftsmanship and pride in aesthetic converge to make unforgettable accessories.

Lord Wallington lordwallington.com

Finding a venue is the most difficult part of planning because couples become very eager to find their ideal spot right away.

Don't get overwhelmed in the beginning and don't make decisions too quickly.

Be patient, take the process slowly, ask for venue recommendations from others and all the right pieces will fall into place.

Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE

Places to PROPOSE

These top Southern California locations are prime spots to pop the question. From seaside views to a desert escape, it won’t be hard to say, ‘Yes’ after being wined and dined at one of these places.

SILVER TRUMPET

RED O TASTE OF MEXICO

1555 S Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 877.741.5908 www.surfandsandresort.com

Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa 3350 Avenue of the Arts Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714.442.8593 www.silvertrumpetrestaurant.com

4340 La Jolla Village Dr San Diego, CA 92122 858.291.8630 www.redorestaurant.com

THE LODGE AT TORREY PINES

WATER GRILL

HERMOSA BEACH PIER

11480 N Torrey Pines Rd La Jolla, CA 92037 858.453.4420 www.lodgetorreypines.com

3300 Bristol St Costa Mesa, CA 92626 949.208.7060 www.watergrill.com

1 Pier Ave Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 www.hermosabch.org

RED HERRING

EIGHT4NINE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

PEAKS RESTAURANT

1661 Colorado Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90041 323.739.0004 www.redherringla.com

849 N Palm Canyon Dr Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.325.8490 www.eight4nine.com

1 Tramway Rd Palm Springs, CA 92262 760.325.4537 www.pstramway.com

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Photos - Red O Taste of Mexico: Joe Greto

SURF & SAND RESORT

Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE

WHAT'S IN A WEDDING?

Here's the Scoop on Most Recent Wedding Statistics

Carat Magic

15

Months is the average length of engagement *According to The Knot

Find the Jewels That Match You and Your Future Spouse

JESSE STROT,

SAN DIEGO SHOWROOM GENERAL MANAGER OF BRILLIANT EARTH

$35,329 is the average wedding cost

*According to The Knot, in 2016

Q: What’s your favorite part about helping a couple pick out the perfect ring?

Jesse Strot: I love seeing the smiles on couples’ faces when they find the perfect ring. The recipient is beaming because she gets to wear this beautiful ring for the rest of her life, and the purchaser is pleased because we have made a potentially stressful process easy and enjoyable.

Q: Explain conflict free diamonds to us. What’s the difference?

JS: Jewelers that offer ‘conflict free’ diamonds are using the definition put forth by the Kimberly Process, which narrowly defines conflict diamonds as those that finance rebel movements against a recognized government. This leaves out large numbers of diamonds that are tainted by other issues, including violence, human rights abuses, poverty, and environmental degradation.

Brilliant Earth goes above and beyond the current industry standards to guarantee that our diamonds originate from pure, ethical sources. Our ethically sourced natural diamonds originate from mines that adhere to strict labor, trade, and environmental standards. We also offer lab created and recycled diamonds, both of which are eco-friendly alternatives.

Our diamonds are independently certified by SCS Global Services to verify that they are fully traceable to their origins and demonstrate a robust chain of custody.

Q: What details make Brilliant Earth one-of-a-kind?

JS: From surprise diamond details to hand engraved scrollwork,

every Brilliant Earth ring includes special details that delight customers looking for a unique ring. Our San Francisco-based design team perpetually strives to create distinctive new jewelry designs, while dreaming up ways to subtly update classic silhouettes with fresh modern appeal. Often they draw inspiration from natural elements including flowers, vines and leaves, creating innovative designs for every taste. The Willow, one of our most popular rings and a quintessential Brilliant Earth style, features wispy vines of precious metal entwined to hold marquise diamond accents in a nature-inspired trellis setting.

Q: Finally, what’s one pro tip?

JS: When shopping for an engagement ring and trying to keep it a surprise, some of our customers find that they don’t know what ring size to buy because they can’t ask their partner outright. We have several great tips we advise our customers to use when trying to secretly figure out their partner’s ring size.

• Borrow a ring she already owns to measure its size. When using this method, make sure you choose a ring that fits her well and that she wears on her left ring finger. If you don’t want to take the ring, another option is to quickly trace the inside of the ring on a piece of paper, then take the paper to a jewelry to figure out the correct size.

• If all else fails, make an educated guess about her ring size, keeping in mind that the average woman’s ring size is 6 to 6.5.

You can get the ring resized after the proposal.

• When in doubt, err on the side of a ring that is too large rather than too small, as it’s likely to be more disappointing to try on a ring that will not fit on her finger than it is to try on a ring that is too loose.

$1,564 is the average wedding dress cost

*According to The Knot, in 2016

78%

of weddings take place from May to October *According to The Knot

81%

of brides take their spouse’s last name *According to The Knot

47% of brides do a bouquet toss

Brilliant Earth 7863 Girard Ave, Ste 303, La Jolla, CA 92037 1.800.691.0952 www.brilliantearth.com 64 LOCALE MAGAZINE

*According to The WeddingWire

Locale Magazine BRIDAL GUIDE WHAT'S IN A WEDDING?

Here's the Scoop on Most Recent Wedding Statistics

124

is the average number of wedding guests *According to WeddingWire

One-of-a-Kind Go With a Unique Setting to Make a Statement

ALAN LEMMERMAN,

*According to WeddingWire

OWNER OF NATHAN ALAN JEWELERS Q: How do you start the engagement ring selection process with the future groom?

Alan Lemmerman: Meeting with a future groom or future couple is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do. I have four kids, three of whom are married, and all of my kids have had their close friends come into my store to see me about engagement rings and wedding bands. I love their trust in me and I totally enjoy helping them find the perfect ring. I realize that typically this is one of the more important purchases the groom will make in his life.

Therefore, I take this process very seriously and I want to make sure the groom knows he is in good hands. I actually try to put myself in my customer's shoes to see the potential purchase from their unique perspective.

Listening and taking direction from the customer is key!

Sometimes I see a future groom who is walking into a jewelry store for the first time, and sometimes I have a groom-to-be who has been to many. It is always an investigative process of finding out the needs of the customer at that moment of time and building on that encounter. At times the future groom has been given a few ring ideas from his bride-to-be. He may even have pictures of styles that are her favorites. Talking with the future groom or couple helps to tell me a story about their engagement ring desires, which helps to narrow down the selection process for them. Often that means that we customize different design details from multiple rings to come up with the perfect engagement ring.

On the other hand, if the groom is just beginning his research, I feel it is important to provide him with an overview of diamond

50%

of couples wedding prep from a smartphone or tablet device

knowledge. We have created an excellent brochure that illustrates the 4 C’s in diamonds: carat, color, cut, and clarity that he can take with him. I enjoy helping the customer simplify the process, one step at a time, by giving the groom confidence with knowledge and providing ring options that are in sync with his desires. Finally and importantly, I like to make sure the process is enjoyable, fun, and memorable for all.

Q: What small details at Nathan Alan Jewelers make your rings one-of-a-kind?

AL: The uniqueness of Nathan Alan comes from our ability to make custom engagement rings and fine jewelry while closely collaborating with our customers to determine every detail that will be in the finished piece. It could be a very simple solitaire design where shape, scale and proportion are critical, or a very detail driven design with different setting styles and a lot of different sizes and shapes of diamonds included. We are very fortunate to have elite craftsmen who utilize their special skills to create one-of-a-kind rings at the highest level of quality.

Q: What sets Nathan Alan Jewelers apart?

AL: Throughout my 40 years in the jewelry business, I have strived to continuously improve the quality of our products. At the end of the day, the customers we serve at Nathan Alan enjoy the face to face relationship, they are able to see the quality and uniqueness in our designs, and appreciate our ability to deliver high quality and customized jewelry at an extremely competitive price.

30

years old is the average age of a bride *According to WeddingWire

32

years old is the average age of a groom *According to WeddingWire

$71

is the average price per head for catering *According to the Knot, 2016

64%

of couples created a wedding hashtag

*According to the Knot, 2016

Nathan Alan Jewelers South Coast Plaza 3333 Bristol St, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 714.545.8337 | www.nathanalanjewelers.com 66 LOCALE MAGAZINE

DEAR SURVIVOR www.dear-survivor.com @dearsurvivor GENERATEHOPE 4025 Camino del Rio South, Ste 300 San Diego, CA 92108 619.818.4026 www.generatehope.com Photoshoot Location: SAN DIEGO, CA

“I am trying to source all the products that I work with ethically. It is hard but worth it and so fun.”

—Christine Longoria

68 LOCALE MAGAZINE

H U M A N I TA R I A N P R O F I L E

Y O U R E A P W H AT

YOU SEW S A N D I E G O LO C A L’ S M I N I M A L I S T P R O D U C T S W O R K TO BENEFIT HUMAN TRAFFICKING SURVIVORS

WRITTEN BY: ARIANA VELAZQUEZ PHOTOGRAPHED BY: BHADRI KUBENDRAN

A woman, an artist and a humanitarian. With Christine Longoria as the one woman show behind Dear Survivor, a minimalist fashionista’s dream of ethically handmade accessories, no stone goes unturned. Coming from a background in sociology and fine art, though fashion and design have always been a passion of hers, Longoria had no classic training in design or business, making this a curious and wonderful adventure for the young entrepreneur. What started as a way to earn quick cash for a sculpture residency in Budapest turned into the perfect way for the designer to marry her passion for helping others with her love for fashion into one unique and beautiful brand.

69

DIY Christine’s favorite product is the Mini Duffle Handbag, and she loves to make them as well.

Roaring San Diego All work and no play makes anyone dull.

Christine enjoys spending her downtime at the San Diego Zoo. Where to Find Dear Survivor • Native Poppy • Moniker General • Shop Teeter • Aloha Beach Club Trend Setter Christine’s favorite labels include not PERFECT LINEN, Beklina, and Bryr Clogs.

L

ooking back on how her past experiences have lent a hand in preparing her for the challenges and success of Dear Survivor is quite a treat for Longoria.

Having worked for a nonprofit clothing company in Los Angeles and learning how to work with leather at a small family business, Potato Feet, Longoria’s path was paved from the start.

“Both were super small businesses and I was able to see all the different sides of running a small business… not intentionally, but it makes so much sense now,” Longoria said about her previous work.

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Top Notch Dear Survivor’s best selling item are the Cluster Earrings, a beautifully designed cluster of jewels that are the perfect accessory for any outfit.

After receiving tax returns that were going towards a trip to do a sculpture residency in Europe, Longoria decided to “buy some leather, make some things,” which ultimately doubled her money. After doing so, a friend mentioned she should start a business doing this same leather work. Hearing this comment sparked her interest and she thought to herself, “Well, I’ve always had this idea in my head that if I do some type of fashion thing I want it to be a social enterprise.” Thus, Dear Survivor was born.

“Within a month, I’d launched a company. I was at my launch party at the Arts District in LA, I had a moment to myself and I was like ‘What did I just do? If I don’t keep this going, I have a failed business.’ That really freaked me out for a second,” said Longoria. Now, two years later, she has kept her business alive and well, and there only seems to be good things on the horizon.

Not native to San Diego, Longoria has easily found her place within the small businesses and creative community that occupies North Park and East Village. Not only has she been able to take advantage of the supportive, creative community that is being cultivated here, but she also has found inspiration and friendships within brands like Bradley Mountain. One day, Longoria aspires to have a similar production system setup to Bradley Mountain for Dear Survivor in which she hires women who have come out of human trafficking, have been rehabilitated and are looking for work.

After debating if she wanted to move to San Francisco, her decision to make the move to San Diego was ultimately decided when she realized she wanted to be within the same city that her organization donates to. She decided to partner with GenerateHope, a two-year rehabilitation program for women who have been rescued from sex trafficking all across the country. Not

only is GenerateHope the first and only recovery program for trafficked women in San Diego, but it has also served over 90 women.

A home for girls ages 18 and under is in the works, but for now, GenerateHope offers women long term, safe housing, education, case management, psychotherapy and much more. “They are a faith-based organization, which I was looking for because I believe that is important with the restoration process. I reached out to them and asked if they were interested, what would this look like and they were super excited. They are awesome; they do really good work and are super respected within the nonprofit world,” said Longoria.

Longoria is still working hard to find the balance of being both self-sustainable and world changing. She is an impeccable example of the millennial generation at its finest— socially aware, creative and driven. Dear Survivor showcases how much one person can do to create something beautiful, while simultaneously giving a hand to a worthwhile charity. Working with a family owned business to get her leather and handpicking stones for her jewelry, Dear Survivor’s concept of craftsmanship and ethically produced goods is driving more and more consumers to hit the ‘purchase button’ at checkout.

“I am trying to take the ethically made thing as far down the line of production as possible. I am trying to source all the products that I work with ethically. It is hard but worth it and so fun,” said Longoria. Using the best raw supplies and her skills in an aesthetically pleasing way to benefit mankind has brought continuing success to Dear Survivor. There’s no doubt that the future is bright and the possibilities are endless for this truly timeless brand.

“Both were super small businesses and I was able to see all the different sides of running a small business… not intentionally, but it makes so much sense now.”

—Christine Longoria

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MAKEUP PROVIDED BY: Sephora www.sephora.com ALL APPAREL & ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Trina Turk www.trinaturk.com

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Photoshoot Location: IWINK STUDIOS 2646 Dupont Dr, Irvine, CA 92612 | 949.556.0550 | www.iwinkstudios.com

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1. Colorful Eyeshadow $10 2. The Painter: Airbrush Sponge $12 3. Classic Double Ended - Shape & Highlight #204 $28 4. V for V.O.L.U.M.E. Mascara $10 5. Cream Lip Stain $7 6. Beauty Amplifier Set and Refresh Spray $16 7. Contour Inner Rim Gel Eyeline $8 8. Instant Eye Makeup Remover $10 9. Hand Mask, Formulation Aloe Vera - Ultra-moisturizing & Beautifying $6 74 LOCALE MAGAZINE

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MAKEUP PROVIDED BY: Sephora www.sephora.com ALL APPAREL & ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Trina Turk www.trinaturk.com

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1. Orchid Eye Mask $5 2. Total Age Defy Night Moisture Cream $34 3. V for V.O.L.U.M.E Mascara $10 4. Strays Away Set of 4 Mini Tweezers $10 5. Orchid Face Mask $6 9.

10.

6. The Perfectionist: Airbrush Sponge $12 7. PRO Brow Brush $18 8. Flirty To Intense Purple Colorful 5 Eyeshadow Palette $25 9. Classic Double Ended Shadow & Crease #205 $20 10. Classic Double Ended Shape & Highlight #204 $28

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MAKEUP PROVIDED BY: Sephora www.sephora.com ALL APPAREL & ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Trina Turk www.trinaturk.com

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1. Classic Double Ended - Shape & Highlight #204 $28 2. Whipped Cream Body Moisturizer, Limited Edition $25 3. Classic Double Ended - Shadow & Crease #205 $20 4. Strays Away Set of 4 Mini Tweezers $10 5. Tangerine Lip Balm & Scrub $6 6. Contour Palette $28 7. Beauty Amplifier Set and Refresh Spray $16 8. Hand Mask, Formulation Argan Anti-aging & Evenness $6 9. Classic Double Ended - Filler & Spoolie #208 $14 78 LOCALE MAGAZINE

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MAKEUP PROVIDED BY: Sephora www.sephora.com ALL APPAREL & ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Trina Turk www.trinaturk.com

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1. Lotus Face Mask $6 2. Crystal Nail File $10 3. The Pointer Blending Sponges $12 4. Mini Tweezer (Set of 4) $10 5. Classic Double Ended - Filler & Spoolie $14 6. Classic Double Ended - Powder & Blush $30

2.

7. The Sculptor Airbrush Sponge $12 8. Rose Lip Balm & Scrub $6 9. Show Curl XL Lash Curler $16 10. The Painter Airbrush Sponge $15 11. Beauty Amplifier Perfecting & Smoothing Eye Primer $14

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MAKEUP PROVIDED BY: Sephora www.sephora.com ALL APPAREL & ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: Trina Turk www.trinaturk.com

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T H AT ' S W H AT S H E S A I D

Ferry TALE

ALL APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Wild Dove Boutique, www.wilddoveboutique.com

Ride With Us as We Explore Coronado

WRITTEN BY: KAI FRIAS AND JORDAN LIGONS PHOTOGRAPHY BY: MICHAEL WESLEY

As I begin the incline of the Coronado Bridge, I gaze out at the sparkling bay and breathtaking city skyline. I can feel the sea breeze hit my hair. I can smell the life of this small island, this small rich island that is nestled on the edge of the Pacific. You can enjoy the calm setting of a park, like the beach behind the famous Hotel Del Coronado; or you can venture onto the golf course or maybe even daydream of owning one of these multi-million dollar homes.

KAI FRIAS @ck_frias

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Maybe the water is your niche, so go down to the marina and set sail on the bay. When the day comes to an end, head to the beginning of Orange Avenue to The Coronado Ferry Landing and enjoy the Instagramworthy sunset. Admire the San Diego cityscape, and salute the sailors as they come and go. C O R O N A D O is full of beauty and history. Come along with me as we take a small look into what this little city has to offer.

Photoshoot Location: THE CORONADO FERRY LANDING 1201 1st St Coronado, CA 92118 619.435.8895 www.coronadoferrylandingshops.com

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CLAYTON’S COFFEE SHOP IT CAN GET CROWDED ON A WARM S U N N Y D AY, BUT NOTHING HITS THE SPOT LIKE ONE OF THESE CLASSIC FLAVORS IN A WAFFLE CONE. SUNS OUT, BUNS OUT Ò Is fresh salty air, white sandy beaches, and rolling waves your thing? Look no further than Coronado Beach! The beach is bordered by colossal multi-million dollar mansions that look over the water, and also the famous Hotel Del. The long stretch of sand glistens like 24 karat gold under the sun and picturesque blue tides. This is definitely one of San Diego's best beaches!

VIGILUCCI'S RISTORANTE CORONADO

MooTime Creamery 1025 Orange Ave Coronado, CA 92118 619.435.2422 www.mootime.com/loc-coronado.html

This old-school-style ice cream shop has all of my favorite flavors. As soon as you walk in, you’re immediately greeted and attended to. It can get crowded on a warm sunny day, but nothing hits the spot like one of these classic flavors in a waffle cone. MooTime Creamery is located right on Orange Avenue in between many restaurants and close to the Hotel Del Coronado. It’s worth every penny!

Bikes & Beyond 1201 1st St Coronado, CA 92118 619.435.7180 www.bikes-and-beyond.com

I love grabbing a beach cruiser from Bikes & Beyond, and cruising the road alongside the sea, enjoying the fresh air and one-of-a-kind views. Located inside of The Coronado Ferry Landing, Bikes & Beyond are just that—not only do they have numerous cruisers and tandem bikes to choose from, but choose the surreys and you can take up to six people to ride around and explore with you!

Ò Stop by Vigilucci’s for the happiest of hours: Monday to Friday from 3-7 p.m. and on the weekends from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Grab a seat at the bar and order up your free complimentary appetizer plate. Try the Polpette di Carne, which is their 100 percent prime beef meatballs! vigiluccis.com

STAKE CHOPHOUSE & BAR Ò Cruise to Stake for a swig of their impressive drink menu. Go for their Sir Mix A Lot cocktail that has black walnut bitters infused into the drink or The Ginja Ninja, a great mocktail option made with blood orange syrup, lime and ginger beer.

Honestly, you can’t go wrong with any choice on the menu! stakechophouse.com

979 Orange Ave Coronado, CA 92118 619.435.5425

Getting an early start to your day? Walk down Orange Avenue and take a seat at Clayton's Coffee Shop. You walk right into the 50s at this historic landmark, and can get your caffeine fix and a hearty breakfast. The portions are quite big, so if you’re dining for two, you may want to share. After you’re done here, you will be ready to take on the day!

THE CORONADO FERRY LANDING

1201 1st St Coronado, CA 92118 619.435.8895 coronadoferrylandingshops.com

The Coronado Ferry Landing is a popular place to come and snap the scenery. It sits at the beginning of Orange Avenue right on the bay.

You can sit at one of the restaurants and sip drinks with friends or a loved one, or keep your feet in the sand and enjoy the beautiful views of the city and water.

THE ATTIC

1011 Orange Ave Coronado, CA 92118 619.435.5432 theatticcoronado.com

This place is a gold mine for items you didn’t know you needed! From beaded and stone-accessorized jewelry to Bradley Mountain featured leather bags to TokyoMilk soaps and creams, The Attic has it all! Expect the unexpected at this boutique and you won’t be disappointed.

AVENU

1114 Orange Ave Coronado, CA 92118 619.996.3303 avenuboutique.com

Only six doors down from their sister store, Paris & Me Boutique, Avenu has the goods. Shop here to get your trendy, beachy fix. If a striped culotte jumpsuit or a free-flowing maxidress is on your closet wish-list, check all your dream items off at this boutique.

Plus, their Instagram is so double-tap worthy!

ALL APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Wild Dove Boutique www.wilddoveboutique.com

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I P E R S O N A L LY L O V E A L L O F T H E I R DRESSES! THEY ARE VERY LIGHTWEIGHT AND W O N D E R F U L F O R S A N D I E G O W E AT H E R .

THE HOTEL DEL CORONADO 1500 Orange Ave Coronado, CA 92118 619.435.6611 hoteldel.com

The Hotel Del is an iconic hot spot in Coronado—and all of San Diego. The best part is it's open to the public.

You are greeted by beautiful architecture and ocean views.

You can grab drinks and food at one of their beach front restaurants, or lounge by the water and catch some sun.

Downstairs you will find some history on the Del, shopping and a luxurious spa. The Hotel Del is one place you will want to check off on your bucket list!

VILLAGE PIZZERIA

1206 Orange Ave Coronado, CA 92118 619.522.0449 villagepizzeriacoronado.com

Lunch, is my favorite meal of the day! I'm quite the pizza addict!

There is no better place in Coronado for me than the Village Pizzeria. Whether you are more of a pasta or pizza person, there is an abundance of options here. Regardless, the food is absolutely phenomenal! It's very central to everything in Coronado, either a nice stroll or short bike ride will land you here. It will be worth it—trust me.

LEROY'S KITCHEN + LOUNGE

1015 Orange Ave Coronado, CA 92118 619.437.6087 leroyskitchenandlounge.com

Paris & Me Boutique 1154 Orange Ave Coronado, CA 92118 619.435.0514 www.parisandmeboutique.com

If you keep walking down Orange Avenue, Paris & Me Boutique is a must-stop spot. They have timeless pieces that are well-made.

I love their light colors, textures and unique styles. I personally love all of their dresses! They are very lightweight and wonderful for San Diego weather.

Mimosas? Mimosas.

When in Coronado, a must-stop brunch spot is Leroy’s. Start with Monkey Bread for the table, order-up the Citrus French Toast for yourself and keep the mimosas free-flowing. If a bloody mary is more your thing, opt for Bloody Hot Mary to start your day with a spicy kick!

Aussie Actress Adelaide Kane Talks Acting, Keys to Success, Mental Health and Fashion

WRITTEN BY: EMILY TORRES PHOTOGRAPHED BY: GIUSEPPE DEMASI STYLED BY: JOHNNY CHAVEZ AND JENNIFER PATTERSON MAKEUP BY: LISA LEEDY | HAIR BY: KRISTEE TAMULIS

Sassy, loyal and endlessly curious (and armed with a gorgeous Australian accent—she’s a native of Perth!), Adelaide Kane is a force to be reckoned with. You may recognize 26-year-old Kane as Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots, in the CW’s “Reign,” which debuted its final season this past February. The female-led historical fiction follows the early exploits of Mary, Queen of Scots. The show is chock-full of both romance and girl power (not to mention: incredible vintage period dresses).

ADELAIDE KANE @adelaidekane PENDRY SAN DIEGO 550 J St San Diego, CA 92101 619.738.7000 www.pendryhotels.com/san-diego APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Fulani www.fulani.at JEWELRY PROVIDED BY: Nicolina Royale www.nicolinaroyale.com SHOES PROVIDED BY: Christian Louboutin us.christianlouboutin.com

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APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Anicy Manuguian www.anicymanuguian.com NECKLACE PROVIDED BY: Nicolina Royale www.nicolinaroyale.com SHOES PROVIDED BY: Christian Louboutin us.christianlouboutin.com

Notable Kane Roles

• Goats (2012) • The Purge (2013) • “Teen Wolf” (2013) • Louder Than Words (2013) • Blood Punch (2014) • Can’t Buy My Love (2017)

Kane’s San Diego Comic-Con Connection

• When asked how her friends would describe her, Kane notes “fiercely loyal” at the top of the list.

Case in point: Kane brought her young brother with her as a guest to “Reign” at San Diego ComicCon in 2014. He left his costume at her apartment in LA and Kane noticed he was disappointed.

She woke up at 4 a.m. and drove back to get his costume before her press began for the day.

“According to my mother, I was always a natural performer.”—Adelaide Kane

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While Kane is best known for this recent leading role, she’s been a performer since she was young.

“According to my mother, I was always a natural performer.

I was always asking people to watch me put on shows, demanding people let me play nurse and be my patient. I was a very high energy child and needed constant monitoring. It was a good way to get my energy out,” says Kane, bubbly as ever.

She still retains this youthful high energy she talks about.

Kane began her career at the age of six with commercials, extras work and modeling. However, she pressed pause on her acting career throughout most of her teens. When she returned to it, her mom and friends encouraged her to enter a talent quest for an Australian soap opera “Neighbours” hosted by Dolly Magazine, a local Australian magazine. Kane reluctantly submitted her tape while sick and expected to go home early on in the competition. She was stunned when she won the role of Lolly Allen on the TV show after a few more rounds of the competition at the young age of 16.

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After this transformational role, Kane began to pick up a variety of roles, including spots in “Power Rangers R.P.M.” and “Pretty Tough.” On the heels of this early success, Kane took a leap of faith and moved by herself from Australia to Los Angeles at age 19.

Kane admits that she was not a savvy 19-year-old and that this move (and subsequent culture shock) took a heavy toll on her. She struggled with

homesickness and loneliness in the City of Angels.

“There was a moment when I was 21, and I’d been in LA for two years.

I went home, and I was so broke and miserable and tired and unhappy and I got really sick. I ended up with a three-day migraine. It was not good,” says Kane when asked about her first few years away from Australia. “I essentially had a nervous breakdown over the stress of being in LA. I went into intensive therapy for a week because all of my symptoms were psychosomatic. I came out the other side being like, ‘Alright, if this is something you really want to do, you got to be able to stick it out.’”

Following this breakdown, Kane gave herself three more months in Los Angeles to assess whether it was worth staying. In those months, she took charge of both her health and career and booked three films back to back and “Teen Wolf.” She signed onto “Reign” the next year. In the meantime, she began to make friends and feel increasingly more comfortable in the US.

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NASON’S BEER HALL

Cosplay From Back in the Day • Kane won’t be working at San Diego Comic-Con next month, but she plans to attend as a guest. While we couldn’t track down photos, she notes that she dressed up as Wonder Girl the first time she attended at 19!

Her Favorite “Reign” Moments

• While Kane can’t pinpoint a favorite episode, she enjoyed any episode that included an opportunity to ride horses. Here’s the catch: she’s highly allergic to horses!

What She’s Watching

• Kane binges on “South Park,” “Family Guy,” “Bob’s Burgers” and “Archer.” Animated cartoons are her go-to, though she will watch hyped shows like “13 Reasons Why,” “Mad Men” and “Stranger Things.”

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While Kane admits that those roles and the ones prior were all valuable personally and professionally in their own unique ways, she credits “Reign” as the most formative and the most fun role in her career to date. In addition to long working hours, Kane portrayed love triangles, marriage and motherhood—all experiences she personally has not gone through. Over and over again, Kane repeats that it was the most rewarding experience with a cast that became a giant family.

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“I got to play a queen. How many women get to do that?” says Kane. She is both humble and confident at the same time.

On the role of playing Mary, Kane admits that her and the character share a strong sense of stubbornness and an intense loyalty to friends and family. She does make it clear, however, that Mary is far more impulsive (and has a great deal more responsibility) than she is. In contrast to her character, Kane needs to think things through before making decisions and taking action.

When asked what she would do with this amount of responsibility if she were queen for a day like Mary Stuart, Kane carefully ponders for a

minute and replies that she would implement permanent social welfare and health insurance. She follows up by adding that she would provide free education forever.

This general outlook carries into her strong opinions regarding mental health, which she is outspoken about with the press and on her personal Twitter feed. Kane opens up about her struggle with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and her issue with the stigma surrounding mental illness. She urges people to be more considerate and kind to people struggling with any form of mental illness. She also encourages a larger discussion, as silence keeps the topic of mental health stigmatized. She wants her fans to know it is okay to talk about—and she clearly leads by example. She often provides advice—like managing sleep, hydration and walking—to others suffering, as well. Kane is similarly compassionate about LGBTQ rights on her social feeds.

Not only does she utilize her social network feeds for activism and outreach, Kane has become a fashion icon on Instagram and Twitter, though this came as an honest surprise to her.

“I didn’t know that was a thing! I definitely streamlined my personal style a lot more. I told myself I needed to stop dressing for comfort and start dressing for what flatters myself. I can be comfy when I’m home in my house.

I went through my entire wardrobe and assessed what was flattering after looking at my body shape in the mirror. What can I get away with? I think there’s room for experimentation and fun in fashion, but you have to know your baseline first. Use that as your sounding board,” says Kane. She notes that brands like Madewell and Aritzia (a Canadian brand) are among her favorites, while also noting that she hopes her shoe choice can be as impressive as Mary Stuart’s one day.

Kane’s portrayal of Mary Stuart is coming to end, and while she may have held royal power, her greatest power in life is her drive and work ethic.

“You have to believe you can do it.

You have to believe you can do it, even in the darkest days and hardest hearts. The only thing holding you back is yourself,” says Kane. “I’ve always felt like the world is a land of endless opportunity for me, at least, and the only reason I’m not getting where I want to be is because I’m not working hard enough. And sure enough, when I work harder, things happen. You can’t expect the world to hand you things.”

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APPAREL PROVIDED BY: Anicy Manuguian www.anicymanuguian.com NECKLACE PROVIDED BY: Nicolina Royale www.nicolinaroyale.com SHOES PROVIDED BY: Christian Louboutin us.christianlouboutin.com

What’s Next?

• At this point, Kane can’t disclose what’s next in her pipeline, but did note that big opportunities are headed her way.

In the meantime, Kane is working as a co-producer on an indie film Acquainted. She is also working to create a cookbook designed for individuals cooking for one (head to her Instagram to see videos and photos from her home test kitchen, but don’t do it on an empty stomach!) and is learning to play piano.

The Final Day on Set

• While shooting the final scene of “Reign,” the cast members and wardrobe staff dressed up in the set’s furs and dresses to watch Kane shoot her final scenes in solidarity, rather than go home. The cast was truly a family that only grew closer year after year.

Kane says, “It was incredibly sweet and moving that everyone wanted to be there for me.”

THE BALVENIE

PORTWOOD AGED 21 YEARS

“You have to believe you can do it. You have to believe you can do it, even in the darkest days and hardest hearts. The only thing holding you back is yourself.”—Adelaide Kane

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SWIMSUIT PROVIDED BY: Sauvage Swimwear www.sauvagewear.com

THE POOL HOUSE AT PENDRY SAN DIEGO

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ADDITIONAL CAMERA ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY: AquaTech Imaging Solutions, www.aquatech.net

“I think there’s room for experimentation and fun in fashion, but you have to know your baseline first. Use that as your sounding board.”

—Adelaide Kane

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PHOTO BY: Josie Gonzales

E AT

///DRINK

JUNE 2017

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SUMMER MICHELADA Learn How Red O Taste of Mexico Makes Their Micheladas so Delicious

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MEALS DECONSTRUCTED An Asian-Inspired Flavor Profile Packs a Punch

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DRINK DECONSTRUCTED Oxford Social Club’s Polish Punch is a Knockout

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EAT EXPERT The Men Behind the Gourmet Sandwich Shop Discuss All Things Food

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BOMB BLOODIES Clink With Eight of SoCal’s Best Bloody Marys

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Photoshoot Location: BOARD & BREW 16480 Paseo Del Sur, Ste 135 San Diego, CA 92127 760.308.6886 www.boardandbrew.com

EAT EXPERT Not Your Average Heroes

Craig Applegate and Clayton Wheeler Dish on All Things Board & Brew

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EAT/DRINK

RED O TASTE OF MEXICO 4340 La Jolla Village Dr San Diego, CA 92122 www.redorestaurant.com Photoshoot Location: 143 Newport Center Dr Newport Beach, CA 92660 949.718.0300

A METHOD TO

MICHELADA MADNESS Celebrate Summer With a Modelo Michelada at Red O Taste of Mexico WRITTEN BY: TYLER HOLLAND PHOTOGRAPHED BY: MATHEW MARTINEZ

If there’s one thing Southern California is known for, besides endless sunshine and beaches, it’s the incredible selection of Mexican food and with that comes an abundance of cocktails that will keep even the most discerning customers satisfied. However, this can make choosing the perfect place for a night out quite the chore. Where should you go when looking for that new and innovative drink that remains true to the roots of the local fare? The new Red O Taste of Mexico, located across from La Jolla’s Westfield UTC, has the solution. The Modelo Michelada gives customers that famous zing of a Mexican bloody mary with the addition of an ice cold

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beer. A michelada’s flavor reflects the true origin of its name, mi chela helada, which means "my cold beer." Modelo Especial forms the foundation and is complimented by salt, lime, ice and a mixer of your choice, creating an unforgettable concoction.

Garnish to your liking and find a new favorite!

Summertime in San Diego calls for Taco Tuesdays under the sun of America’s Finest City. Enjoy your ice cold Red O Modelo Michelada with tasty deals that happen on a foodie’s favorite day of the week. With mouthwatering $3 select tacos to bite into, and your new fave drink to sip on, you’ll feel like you escaped on a Mexican vacay without leaving town.

HOW TO MAKE A RED O TASTE OF MEXICO MICHELADA Ingredients: • 12 oz. Modelo Especial • 3/4 oz. Fresh Lime Juice • 1/4 oz. Bloody Mary Seasoning mix • 1/4 oz. Worcestershire Sauce • 1/4 oz. Tomato Juice • Dash of Tapatio • Salt • Pepper • Lime • Ice

PACIFIC STANDARD COASTAL KITCHEN 2137 Pacific Highway San Diego, CA 92101 619.819.0090 www.pacificstandardrestaurant.com

M EALS DECONSTRUCTED

Un-BowlLievable SOUS CHEF AMI CISNEROS DISSECTS PACIFIC STANDARD COASTAL KITCHEN’S SALMON BOWL

WRITTEN BY: JESSICA YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOSIE GONZALEZ

The Salmon Bowl Deconstructed

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The Salmon Bowl Ingredients:

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The Salmon Bowl Deconstructed

1. “Chin-Chin” Vinaigrette 2. Hoisin-Sesame Glaze 3. Pickled Cucumbers 4. Cilantro 5. Soy Marinated Shiitake Mushrooms 6. Radish 7. Purple Cabbage

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8. Pickled Ginger 9. Edamame 10. Serrano Garnish 11. Lime 12. Faro 13. Quinoa 14. Wheat Berry Mix 15. 5 Ounces of Scottish Salmon

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“Having your line cooks look at you and say they want to be like you…you never put yourself in that situation. It’s great to have that recognition from your own team.”—Ami Cisneros

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Ponzu

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Sesame Oil

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SEAWORTHY u Pacific Standard Coastal Kitchen’s coastal-inspired cuisine is a reflection of Little Italy’s storied past as a fishing community.

PROPER EDUCATION u Chef Cisneros worked with many chefs inspired by Asian culture prior to taking her position at Pacific Standard.

Q&A With Sous Chef Ami Cisneros of Pacific Standard Coastal Kitchen

“We are a neighborhood spot, not a hotel spot.

We don’t want to be a diner. We are a part of the community. We’re always going to be the freshest and the best we can be.”—Ami Cisneros

Pacific Standard Coastal Kitchen has overhauled its menu under the guidance of Sous Chef Ami Cisneros.

While a few staple dishes stuck around, the majority of the menu was scrapped and redesigned by Cisneros, who has been with the restaurant since it opened July 2016.

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Some of the changes to the menu include adding ribs to happy hour, which require a two-day preparation process, homemade brioche and an increased number of vegetarian options. The “California Bistro” vibe that the establishment touts is still on point as several of the popular staple dishes remained on the menu after Cisneros’ overhaul.

Among those dishes that made the cut was the Salmon Bowl.

“We kept things that we knew the diners knew and loved. The high sellers, the comfort classics.

Things that were familiar and good,” Cisneros said.

The Salmon Bowl is a marriage of sweet and spicy flavors, smooth textures and a refreshing finish with simple ingredients. Chef Cisneros attributed much of the Asian influence of the dish to her love of both Mexican and Asian flavors. “Mexican and Asian foods share a lot of flavors.

They are both rooted in simple ingredients...that’s what I love about working with these flavors,” Cisneros said.

The Salmon Bowl was crafted to be a fulfilling, hearty meal that won’t leave diners feeling heavy or overstuffed, even if they polish off the entire bowl.

The contents are light and refreshing. The success of the bowl hinges on the combination of sharp flavors from the pickled vegetables, the heat of the peppers, sweetness of the salmon and the “umami,” or savory, marinated mushrooms.

In addition to providing fresh and innovative dishes that cater to the desires of their clientele,

Pacific Standard Coastal Kitchen also creates an atmosphere that is warm and welcoming. The dining room is open and inviting, offering tables for two, four, or bigger groups when necessary.

Guests can also choose to eat on the patio, which looks across Pacific Coast Highway at the San Diego Bay. Toned in soft grays and blues with hints of yellow and gold, the environment is modern and sleek while still feeling like home.

Despite sharing property with the Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Suites, the restaurant doesn’t have the sterile one-size-fits-all feel that many hotel eateries share.

With a large, fully stocked bar, comfy patio chairs and outdoor heaters, as well as two, large wall-mounted flat screen TVs, Pacific Standard Coastal Kitchen is a destination and a great place to hang out; not just a diner connected to the hotel lobby.

“We are a neighborhood spot, not a hotel spot. We don’t want to be a diner. We are a part of the community. We’re always going to be the freshest and the best we can be,” Cisneros said.

Q: Living in San Diego, seafood is obviously abundant. What makes Pacific Standard’s Salmon Bowl stand out among a sea of competitors?

Ami Cisneros: I think here, the seafood isn’t in your face. It’s predominant in the menu, but it’s not overwhelming for someone who doesn’t want to eat seafood. It’s just natural in San Diego to use so much of the product that we have. We just have great resources in town. It’s a natural fit.

Q: How do you approach creating menu items that are going to be appealing to a wide audience?

AC: The key is simplicity and bold flavors. I don’t try to make any of the items on the menu unapproachable. It doesn’t seem like you’re going to be taken on a wild ride of a mystery plate, with what is written on the menu. But I’m not someone who shies away from layering flavors—I really want every bite to be exciting, no matter how it is spelled out on the menu.

Q: What makes the Salmon Bowl a successful dish?

AC: I’m a big believer of pickling things. I’ve sat down in the restaurant myself and ordered it, and most dishes, it’s great when there is one tying flavor to it. And for me, in this dish, that’s the pickled ginger. It does a great job of tying all those flavors together. It heightens the vinaigrette and the serrano…it’s just a highlighter. Especially when you have so much umami in it, with the shiitakes and the hoisin and the fattiness from the salmon.

Q: What is your greatest culinary accomplishment?

AC: Having a line cook call me their mentor for the first time. Having your line cooks look at you and say they want to be like you…you never put yourself in that situation. It’s great to have that recognition from your own team. You know that they are working hard so that you can be successful as a team and that’s a good feeling.

Q: What is your biggest guilty pleasure when it comes to food?

AC: Oh, I’m not even guilty about it. I love ramen and Sapporo. For everything.

When I’m happy, ramen. When I’m sad, ramen. I visited Japan with six other San Diego chefs and I think I ate my weight in ramen on that trip.

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EAT/DRINK

The Oxford Social Club, a place where the drinks are as elegant as their surroundings. Nestled within the luxury Pendry San Diego in the Gaslamp Quarter, this newbie night club rolls with the punches…and pours them.

combination of the berries gives it that silky berry flavor. So, it’s very smooth, very easy to drink, very soft on the pallet, and a little sneaky. It’s one of those drinks where you’re a cupand-a-half in and you’re like, ‘Hey, I’m feeling good.

I might have to slow this down a little bit.’”

The Polish Punch is sweet with a tinge of tart. The ingredients within the confines of a large and alluring crystal decanter dazzle the eyes and the taste buds. The Polish Punch is one of Oxford Social Club’s signature communal provisionals— and it’s out to getcha.

We love sneaky, and the Oxford Social Club’s drinks are a wolf in sheep’s clothing—craft cocktails shouldn’t reminisce paint thinner and fruit. Along with their top-notch cocktails, the club is a place that owns a ravishing atmosphere without the attitude as GomezMercado explains the clientele: “People are a lot more chill down here. You still get the high-end client, but you don’t get the highend client who has their nose in the air.”

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IT PACKS A PUNCH Sip on Something Sweet at Oxford Social Club WRITTEN BY: MATTHEW BURKE PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOSIE GONZALES

BE SEEN AND HEARD ª Not only is Oxford Social Club a place you want to be seen, the venue also hosts art shows and activations and music gatherings.

There’s also celebrity-hosted parties and pop up performances, so be on the lookout for those dates!

“The alcohol is not going to hit you hard,” said lead bartender Aby GomezMercado. “The Cointreau softens the taste of the vodka combined with lemon-lime juice—it’s very smooth on the pallet. The

INGREDIENTS: ª 50 Bleu Vodka ª Cointreau ª Lemon-Lime Juice ª Orange Juice ª Blackberries ª Strawberries

OXFORD SOCIAL CLUB AT PENDRY SAN DIEGO 435 Fifth Ave San Diego, CA 92101 619.738.7040 www.theoxfordsd.com

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ª Champagne (optional)

EAT EXPERT Photoshoot Location: BOARD & BREW 16480 Paseo Del Sur, Ste 135 San Diego, CA 92127 760.308.6886 www.boardandbrew.com

N OT YO U R AV E R AG E

HEROES Craig Applegate and Clayton Wheeler Dish on All Things Board & Brew

WRITTEN BY: MATTHEW BURKE PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JOSIE GONZALES

Experts: Craig Applegate and Clayton Wheeler Credentials: Franchise Co-Owners of Board & Brew Del Sur, Pacific Beach, Carlsbad Village, Scripps Ranch and Laguna Niguel Travel Bug: If they had to pick another place to live besides San Diego, Craig would choose Maui, Boulder or Santa Barbara, similar to Clayton who would choose Colorado or Hawaii.

Ñ Clayton Wheeler

Craig Applegate Ò

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Locally owned and operated, Board & Brew’s sandwiches are as wholesome and genuine as the people behind the counter.

Bread that dissolves on the taste buds and fresh ingredients that are satisfying to the stomach.

Closing in on 40 years, the Board & Brew club has expanded and grown into something special with the help of franchise owners Craig Applegate and Clayton Wheeler.

These two young entrepreneurs know how to make a business grow without sacrificing the quality and personality of a company that remains superior to your average sandwich joint.

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“We really strive to maintain the ‘mom and pop’ vibe in all communities that we become a part of.”—Craig Applegate

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE The first Board & Brew location opened in Del Mar in 1979.

PLAY BALL Board & Brew has two locations in Petco Park, one on field level, section 107 and another on the Toyota Terrace, section 205.

Q: What is the motivation behind expanding Board & Brew?

Craig Applegate: The challenge of putting together a huge puzzle. The pieces include finding a location, hiring the best talent and providing the best food and service possible. When you put all the pieces together and see what has been created, it's pretty rad and motivating.

The puzzle is always growing! Not to mention, being able to create opportunity is a huge motivator!

Q: How did you guys go about getting started in the restaurant business?

CA: My parents said I needed to ‘be responsible’ [laughs]. So, I got my first job at the age of 15 at the classic Olyo’s Pizza in Encinitas as a cook, and as they say, the rest is history!

Clayton Wheeler: I was drawn in by the fast pace and exciting environment. I started working at Las Olas in Cardiff and kept working my way up in the industry.

Q: What is your proudest moment as restaurant owners?

CW: Opening my first restaurant in Carlsbad Village.

CA: I’d have to agree with Clayton. Opening our Carlsbad location was all time! It was the start of something epic!

Q: What makes Board & Brew superior to other sandwich shops?

CA: Board & Brew definitely prides itself on its highquality ingredients, but what separates us are a lot of things. Can you say sweet and sour sauce?! In addition, we have an amazing crew that truly is family.

Also, we really strive to maintain the ‘mom and pop’ vibe in all communities that we become a part of, and finally, I'd say it's our revolving taps that we have (that's the short version).

Q: Are there any new Board & Brew locations that are in the works?

CA: We are super excited for the future. We are looking to expand in the North County area in 2017 or early 2018.

Q: What are some upcoming events you're involved with?

CA: Some future events we are getting involved with are The Celebrity Golf Tourney with Marshall Faulk and Urban Surf 4 Kids, to name a few. We are also doing some huge events throughout San Diego that we can’t mention yet, but excited to get involved with.

Q: What is one of your favorite things to do in San Diego?

CA: One of my favorite things to do is cruise the coast on walks with my wife and two daughters. The scene and view of the 101 beats almost any view.

CW: My newest hobby has been going down to SkyDive San Diego and jumping out of planes and working on getting all my [certifications] for skydiving.

Q: What food reminds you of your childhood?

CA: Being born and raised in Encinitas/Carlsbad, I’d have to say that Mexican food takes me back to my childhood. There are so many solid spots that each specialize in their own plates.

CW: Cali burritos!

“My newest hobby has been going down to SkyDive San Diego and jumping out of planes and working on getting all my [certifications] for skydiving.”

—Clayton Wheeler

Q: What is your favorite restaurant to grab a bite to eat in San Diego?

CA: Living in Carlsbad, my favorite place to grab a bite besides Board & Brew is Fish 101.

CW: Besides Board & Brew, it would have to be Del Mar Pizza (best thin crust in town).

Q: Out of all the breweries in San Diego, what are some of your favorites?

CA: That's pretty hard, as there are so many solid breweries out there, but one of the newer breweries on the scene that I love is Burgeon. They are out of Carlsbad and do some pretty incredible stuff. I’d also have to say I've been loving Abnormal.

CW: It's hard to beat Ballast Point, but I’d also have to agree with Burgeon.

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EAT/DRINK

ABSO-BLOODY-LUTELY Bacon, Burgers, and Celery Topped Goodness WRITTEN BY: ASHLEE POLAREK PHOTOGRAPHED BY: BHADRI KUBENDRAN

A loaded bloody mary is the perfect addition to your Sunday brunch— especially photo-worthy when it’s stacked as high as your face! Whether you’re looking for a bomb bloody in your own backyard or you’re wanting to explore a bit, we’ve got you covered with some of the best bloodies in Southern California.

SAN DIEGO COUNTY Jurassic Pork Bloody Mary

BBQ Bloody Mary

Ò The Jurassic Pork Bloody Mary from Breakfast Republic is garnished with thick cut bacon, celery, olives, a tangy lemon wedge, and a cornichon. The mouth watering Jurassic Pork bacon, a crowd favorite at the restaurant, is marinated in brown sugar and paprika, delivering balanced spicy and sweet flavor that perfectly tops the brilliantly colored bloody.

Ò Jalapeño infused vodka, house made mary mix and barbecue sauce are what makes the base of this unique bloody mary delicious.

On top you’ll find a two-to three-boned cut of smoked pork baby back ribs, a green olive, fresh celery stick, house pickled okra and green beans, and a brisket rub rimmed glass, sure to have you licking your fingers asking for seconds.

Breakfast Republic in Encinitas breakfastrepublic.com

That Boy Good Southern BBQ Joint thatboygoodbbq.com

LOS ANGELES

PALM SPRINGS

ORANGE COUNTY

Mama Betty’s Bloody Mary

BLT Mary

Buddy’s Bloody Mary

Ò Inspired by Grandma Betty, Mamma Betty’s Bloody Mary features a spicy habanero infused vodka, made in house, and a refreshing and flavorful homemade bloody mary mix. To avoid the usual, the Bellwether garnishes their bloody with a mini BLT, a peperoncini, a cornichon and bacon salt around the rim.

Ò House-made bloody mary mix and homemade bacon infused vodka sends the BLT Mary at Jake’s right to the top. This meal in a cup is garnished with a skewer of crispy applewood bacon, fresh lettuce, tomato and a perfect piece of toast. Great for curing a hangover or starting the day off with bacon boozy goodness.

The Bellwether thebellwetherla.com

Jake’s Palm Springs jakespalmsprings.com

Sunday Bloody Sunday

Franken Mary

Ò A bloody mary of massive proportions, Buddy’s Bloody at Lighthouse Bayview Cafe is fresh and filling. The 32-ounce bloody is made up of a homemade mix, and is garnished with fresh lemon and lime, pickled asparagus, crisp celery, crumbly gorgonzola, a green olive, salami, a cherry tomato and a pickled pearl onion plus a chili salted rim. The enormous drink lives up to the man (Buddy) it was inspired by.

Ò The Sunday Bloody Sunday at Rock and Brews is a classic hit.

Garnished with savory bacon, celery sticks, lemon and lime, three olives, pickled okra, and a deliciously spiced rim, this bloody mary will have you wanting to rock and roll all night.

Ò This 32-ounce behemoth truly is a meal in a cup. The homemade bloody mary mix is garnished with crisp celery stalks, asparagus, a Slim Jim, a melty cheeseburger slider, a shrimp skewer, two chicken wings, bacon, two cheese sticks, and a garnish kabab made up of fresh lemon, lime and orange wedges, olive, onion and cherry.

Rock and Brews rockandbrews.com

Sloan’s Restaurant sloansrestaurant.com Jurassic Pork Bloody Mary • Bacon • Celery • Olives • Lemon wedge • Cornichon

Lighthouse Bayview Cafe lighthousenb.com Ramos House Bloody Mary Ò The stacked-to-the top Ramos House Bloody Mary has been around for 19 years. Created as a cure for a New Year’s Eve hangover, this delectable drink is one for the books.

Made with soju and house crafted mary mix, the unique drink is topped with a Scotch quail egg, pickled string beans and a crab claw.

Ramos House Cafe ramoshouse.com

Photoshoot Location: BREAKFAST REPUBLIC IN ENCINITAS 251 N El Camino Real Encinitas, CA 92024 760.452.2121 www.breakfastrepublic.com

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PHOTO BY: Evan Tipton

GO ///DO

JUNE 2017

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DO EXPERT These Young Do Experts are Killing it at Life

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WINNER, WINNER Jockey Joe Talamo Proves The Sky's the Limit This Racing Season

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SPEND YOUR SUMMER AT DEL MAR Check Out the Lineup of Events at the Del Mar Racetrack This Summer

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OPENING DAY AFTER PARTY Come Party at L’Auberge Del Mar After the Races

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MUSIC SPOTLIGHT Elise Trouw is Making Her Way in Music With Her Drumset

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DO PROFILE George Chmiel Takes the Country

by Storm as He Completes 3,005 Mile Run

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THE POOL HOUSE The Pool House is Sure to Make a Splash This Summer

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ELISE TROUW www.elisetrouw.com @elisetrouw Photoshoot Location: LA JOLLA, CA

FIRST TIMER'S GUIDE Your Guide to a Weekend in Santa Barbara

MUSIC SPOTLIGHT Local Sound: Elise Trouw

La Jolla Local Elise Trouw Doesn’t Miss a Beat

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A CHILD DO EXPERT

SHALL LEAD

THEM

MEET 7 YOUNG INFLUENCERS WHO HAVE MADE THEIR PASSIONS A REALITY WRITTEN BY: NICOLE HAKIM PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS AND JANE CHOUTEAU

If you’ve ever heard the phrase that the youth are the future, then you should know that it is entirely true. With their boundless imaginations and endless motivation, they do whatever they can to make their dreams come true and help others in the process.

Whether they are trying to clean up the environment, flying across the map, guiding people to a healthier lifestyle, creating a new useful invention, working with a team to score a win, climbing a mountain or using their skills as a chef to help kids find light in the darkness, each one of our determined young Do Experts are on his or her way to show others just how far one can go, if they only put their best foot forward.

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“IT’S A DIRTY JOB, BUT SOMEBODY HAS TO DO IT.” — VA N I S BUCKHOLZ

VANIS BUCKHOLZ

CREATOR OF MY RECYCLER AGE: 14

The earth is a beautiful place, but unfortunately, not many are committed to preserving its beauty. Meet Vanis Buckholz, the creator of My ReCycler, which aims to clean up streets, beaches, parks and much more by picking up trash and recycling it.

In his seventh year of business, Vanis has collected over 75,000 pounds of trash and has joined the Project Hope Alliance, a charity that helps homeless children in Orange County.

With his involvement, he has not only helped the environment, but also the people who call the earth their home. Seeing someone so young take care of the environment is truly inspiring, and as Vanis says, “It’s a dirty job, but somebody has to do it.”

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Q: What inspired you to get into recycling?

Vanis Buckholz: It was for an Earth Day project in elementary school. I picked recycling because it seemed like a smart thing to do. Once I started, I thought we should keep doing it. When I realized we could make money doing it, we started the business. My grandpa always told me to start a business, so I did.

Q: How did you come up with the name “My ReCycler?”

VB: I started my business on my scooter and then on my bike; that’s how I got to all my customers. The name matches what I actually do: I recycle and I ride my bike.

Q: Were there ever times of struggle?

How did you push forward?

VB: Yes, because it grew so fast, it was

hard to keep everything organized.

I just focused on what I had to do.

I took care of my commitments and stayed organized.

Q: What plans do you have for your business in the future?

VB: I want to grow it as big as I can and add other services. I’d like to get my own recycling yard and hire others to join it.

Q: How does it feel to be considered one of Orange County’s most influential “Game Changers?”

VB: Wow! It’s shocking. I’ve been doing this for half of my life, so it’s nothing unusual. It’s still really cool.

Q: What is one of your biggest achievements while in business?

VB: That would probably be helping other kids.

I’D LIKE TO GET MY OWN RECYCLING YARD AND HIRE OTHERS TO JOIN IT.”

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS

— VA N I S B U C K H O L Z

A PIECE OF ADVICE

Buckholz says the most important thing for people to help is to do something.

STAY ACTIVE

When he’s not recycling, Buckholz likes to spend time sports car racing with his dad, hanging out with his friends, surfing, skateboarding, go-kart racing and playing basketball, volleyball and golf.

MY RECYCLER www.myrecycler.org Photoshoot Location: ORANGE COUNTY RECYCLING CENTER 1601 E Edinger Ave Santa Ana, CA 92705

“THE FACT THAT I CAN SHOW THEM A DIFFERENT OPPORTUNITY AT LIFE BRINGS SATISFACTION TO MINE. I WISH TO SHOW MANY KIDS IN THE UNITED STATES THE SAME THING.” —ISAIAH COOPER

ISAIAH COOPER

YOUNGEST AFRICAN AMERICAN TO FLY ACROSS THE US AGE: 17

To many, the idea of flying can be quite scary. To others, it’s merely a way to get from one place to another.

To Compton-native Isaiah Cooper, flying is a sense of freedom and accomplishment. At the age of only 16, Cooper achieved a milestone last July, as he became one of the youngest people to fly across the United States. The 8,000-mile flight took two weeks, and though this is quite an accomplishment, Cooper is far from finished. He hopes to take his passion to the next level and become the youngest person to fly around the globe.

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Q: When did you want to become a pilot?

Isaiah Cooper: I was a young kid, and I wanted to do it as a hobby. I was five or six years old at the time.

The fact that I can show them a different opportunity at life brings satisfaction to mine. I wish to show many kids in the United States the same thing.

Q: It sounds really scary! How do you keep calm and push forward?

IC: I don’t really have moments of doubt. I’ve been in an accident before, so I’m ready for what flying brings.

Q: What advice do you have for kids on how to follow their dreams?

IC: Stay focused, stay positive, stay around positive people who want to encourage you, and put your best foot forward in school. Everything you learn in school will help you in real life.

Q: Have you flown any of your family?

IC: No. I don’t have a license yet, and on top of that, most of them are scared of planes, so it’s going to be hard.

Q: Have you met any young children inspired by your adventures? How does it make you feel?

IC: Oh, yes. Some will contact me online or through social media. I’ll sign autographs and take photos. I love inspiring them.

Q: How did it feel when you were flying 8,000 miles around the US? IC: I loved it. It’s a sense of freedom you won’t get from driving a car. I love flying through the clouds; it’s so exciting.

Q: What do you have planned for the future?

IC: I would actually like to open my own organization. Hopefully I can make it so kids can get the same chance I did.

IT’S A SENSE OF FREEDOM YOU WON’T GET FROM DRIVING A CAR. I LOVE FLYING THROUGH THE CLOUDS; IT’S SO EXCITING.”

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS

— I S A I A H C OO P E R

BALLIN’

When he’s not flying, Cooper also enjoys playing baseball and basketball.

DREAM FLIGHT

Cooper says his dream flight destination is Jamaica.

Photoshoot Location: COMPTON AIRPORT 901 W Alondra Blvd Compton, CA 90220

“I’VE HAD LEUKEMIA THREE TIMES...I FOUND THE FOOD NETWORK AND ALL THE COOKING SHOWS, AND I FELL IN LOVE WITH FOOD.” — JAC K WITH ERSPOON

JACK WITHERSPOON

CHEF, LEUKEMIA SURVIVOR AND AUTHOR OF “TWIST IT UP” AGE: 17

Diagnosed with leukemia at age two, Jack Witherspoon has relapsed twice at age six and 11, and has even gone through a bone marrow transplant.

However, Witherspoon has moved past the darkness by finding solace in cooking.

With a cookbook, a visit to the “Tonight Show” with Jay Leno, and a charity that raised over $150,000 for pediatric leukemia research, Witherspoon has achieved so much by age 16.

Q: What inspired you to start cooking?

Jack Witherspoon: I’ve had leukemia three times.

It was during my first relapse when I was six, and I was in the hospital a lot. I found the Food Network and all the cooking shows, and I fell in love with food. I got my mom to write down recipes, and when I got home, I’d make some of them.

Children, where I was treated for my first two bouts of leukemia. It’s called the Jack Witherspoon Foundation. Proceeds from my book also go to that foundation. I was also Leukemia Lymphoma Society’s Boy of the Year in 2015. I’ve raised a lot of money for a lot of different charities, but they’re all for leukemia research.

Q: How did you stay positive during difficult times?

JW: It really hit me when I was six because I had friends and school. All those things were just taken away when I was under treatment.

The cooking was the bright light that kept me positive in the midst of everything. I really needed something to get my mind off everything that was going on, and cooking kept my mind off all that.

Q: What do you think is one of your biggest achievements in the culinary world?

JW: My cookbook is one of my biggest achievements. It was a lot of hard work, and it was my first big project. I was 11 when it was published, and as it was going to print, I had a relapse with leukemia, so my book launch was postponed.

Q: What is the first dish you ever made?

JW: I started off just helping my mom, but the first dish I really ever made was a five-cheese mac and cheese I saw on “Rachael Ray's Tasty Travels.” The night after I got home, my mom and I made it. It was really cool, making something by myself and having people eat it and enjoy it. It’s a really good feeling.

Q: Which recipe in “Twist it Up” is your favorite?

JW: It’s 60 of my favorite recipes, so it’s kind of hard to choose, but I’ve got to say either my spaghetti carbonara—it’s easy, it’s fast and it’s really good— or my shepherd’s pie, which has a little bit of sentimental value because I made it on the “Tonight Show,” and I got to cook it with Jay Leno.

Q: Tell me about your charity. When did it start and what have you done to raise money?

JW: I have my own endowment at Miller’s

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Q: Which chefs inspire you the most?

JW: I got to say Bobby Flay, Rachael Ray, all those Food Network chefs inspire me to keep cooking, but now, as I’m getting older, I’m watching more Gordon Ramsay; he really knows his stuff.

Q: Do you have any advice for anyone who wants to learn how to cook?

JW: You want to keep it simple in the beginning and work your way up. I started off helping, learning everything I could, and watching videos.

Practice really makes perfect.

Q: What do you have planned for the future?

JW: I’m going to be making my own business. It’s going to be a cookie company called “Sconies.”

It’s a cross between a cookie and a scone. We’re hoping to launch with three different varieties like vanilla bean, chocolate chip and lemon zest.

THE COOKING WAS THE BRIGHT LIGHT THAT KEPT ME POSITIVE IN THE MIDST OF EVERYTHING. I REALLY NEEDED SOMETHING TO GET MY MIND OFF EVERYTHING THAT WAS GOING ON, AND COOKING KEPT MY MIND OFF ALL THAT.”

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS

— JAC K W I T H E R S P OO N

COOKING UP A STORM

Witherspoon says one of the most fulfilling things is inspiring kids in the hospital by doing cooking demos.

ACROSS THE BOARD

When he’s not cooking, Witherspoon likes to hang out with friends, skateboard, snowboard, and surf.

Photoshoot Location: PRIMO ITALIA 24590 Hawthorne Blvd Torrance, CA 90505 310.378.4288 www.eatprimo.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 123

“FOR ME, I NOTICED HOW YOGA HELPED ME WITH SCHOOL AND RELAXATION. IT INSPIRED ME TO HELP OTHERS BECAUSE IT HELPED ME.” — JAYS E A D E VO E

JAYSEA DEVOE

YOUNGEST CERTIFIED SUP YOGA INSTRUCTOR, FOUNDER OF SEAVIBES AGE: 15

Jaysea Devoe has loved yoga from a young age—when other forms of sport didn’t work for her—and has found a sense of happiness within the practice.

However, as relaxed as yoga makes her, merely practicing isn’t enough. Devoe is also a certified yoga instructor, and she is only 14 years old. Teaching at the Yoga Bergamot every Wednesday night, Devoe shows that her young age doesn’t matter because she is able to share the passion and relaxation that yoga brings her to her students.

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Q: How did you get into the yoga hype?

Jaysea Devoe: I was about eight years old. I had been taking kids’ classes at a dance studio that offered yoga one or two times a week. I loved it. I tried all different sports, but none really worked, and yoga just stuck with me. I took the training when I was 12.

incense and music on. When the students show up and line up their mats, I welcome them and introduce myself to new students. I start off slowly with one pose for a few minutes to reflect on our bodies. We pick up the pace in the middle with sequences that build up, and at the end of class, I bring the sequences down to reflect.

Q: What inspired you to become a yoga instructor?

JD: For me, I noticed how yoga helped me with school and relaxation. It inspired me to help others because it helped me.

Q: What advice do you have for people who want to try yoga?

JD: I hear students say they can’t do yoga because they’re not flexible. Yoga is meant for working on flexibility. If you haven’t started yoga, go to a local studio and take a few classes. Go for a few days a week and build it up, and see if you notice any differences in your mind and body.

Q: How does doing yoga and helping others make you feel?

JD: Yoga is such an important thing that everyone should practice. Being able to help others make their bodies healthy makes me happy. It empowers me to help others.

Q: Walk us through a typical class when you’re instructing.

JD: Normally, I go in and teach at Yoga Bergamot. I teach on Wednesdays, and I put

Q: What are some of your biggest achievements in the yoga field?

JD: For me, it’s my clothing and jewelry line called SeaVibes. We have a little shop where I teach. It gets me into a new thing while incorporating yoga.

BEING ABLE TO HELP OTHERS MAKE THEIR BODIES HEALTHY MAKES ME HAPPY. IT EMPOWERS ME TO HELP OTHERS.” — JAYS E A D E VO E

WATER BABY

When Devoe isn’t doing yoga, she likes to surf and paddleboard.

WORLD TRAVELER

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS

As an instructor, she wants to share her love for yoga around the world, and explore new cultures as she does so.

SEAVIBES YOGA www.seavibesyoga.com @seavibesyoga Photoshoot Location: PONTO BEACH TOWER 21 Carlsbad Blvd Encinitas, CA 92024 www.californiabeaches.com

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS

“I’VE ALWAYS WANTED A SKATEBOARD I COULD FIT IN MY LOCKER AND BACKPACK, SO I DECIDED TO JUST START MAKING ONE.” —CARSON K RO P F L

CARSON KROPFL

CREATOR OF THE LOCKER BOARD SKATEBOARDS AGE: 12

Nothing can extinguish a child’s imagination, especially if he has an idea that he’s passionate about. In order to pay for his surf contests and lessons, he started the Locker Board—instead of doing chores. They are made with recycled skateboard decks, and when Vans learned of Kropfl’s ideas, he was set up with a monthly recycling program at two stores in So Cal where he is given donated skateboard decks to upcycle into Locker Boards. This year, Carson will be a mentor at the Independent Youth Teen Network, and he is also donating $1 for every Locker Board he sells to the Tony Hawk Foundation.

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Q: What is the Locker Board and how did you think of it?

Carson Kropfl: Locker Boards are recycled skateboard decks that I’ve reshaped to fit inside backpacks and lockers. I put new tracks and wheels on them and sell them for $69. I’ve always wanted a skateboard I could fit in my locker and backpack, so I decided to just start making one.

Q: Any notable people who have a Locker Board?

CK: We sent out [a board to Barron Trump], and it’s in the White House, but we haven’t heard anything quite yet.

Q: How many Locker Boards have you sold?

CK: To date, I’ve sold 151. We’ve been selling them for three-and-a-half months.

Q: Who was the first person to get their very own Locker Board, besides yourself?

CK: It was Oct. 25th—I put the boards out

there on Oct. 29th—and two of my friends came over and bought one.

Q: Do you have any other inventions you’ve done?

CK: A while ago, we started a company called Streetubez. It’s like tarp surfing, and that’s when you get a big tarp, and then you set it down and take one corner and pull it. The wind takes you like a wave, and you skate through it. The tarp is a triangle and is made out of parachute material, and you skate on the streets. It’s super easy and fun to ride. We did a Kickstarter. We didn’t make it, but we’re going to start it up again.

Q: Do you have any advice for kids who want to invent?

CK: You just have to push through and work as hard as you can. Then you’ll have time to play. Work hard, shred hard!

WORK HARD, SHRED HARD!” — C A R S O N K RO P F L

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

When he’s not inventing, Kropfl enjoys playing with his friends, biking, skateboarding and surfing.

BIEBER FEVER

Kropfl says he’d think Justin Bieber—who skates a lot in Venice Beach—would enjoy his own Locker Board.

LOCKER BOARD SKATEBOARDS 949.554.4448 www.lockerboard.net Photoshoot Location: SAN CLEMENTE, CA

“[THE HIKE] TOOK ABOUT 22 HOURS. THAT WAS WITH NO SLEEP, JUST SOME ONE-MINUTE CATNAPS; THOSE ONLY FELT LIKE A SECOND.” —ANTHONY S LO S A R

ANTHONY SLOSAR

YOUNGEST PERSON TO CLIMB MT. WHITNEY AGE: 7

Whether one is an experienced hiker or just starting out, climbing a mountain at any stage of life is a long, difficult, and impressive feat.

It’s even more impressive when you’re only six years old and have already climbed a mountain that is over 14,000 feet, and that is what Anthony Slosar did last August. Coming from a family of hikers, Slosar made history with his father, mother, brothers, and sisters.

Even when his mother and siblings had to turn back halfway through the climb—because of altitude sickness—Slosar wasn’t about to give up. He continued on with the 22-hour journey and came back with a heightened sense of confidence and achievement.

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Q: What inspired you to climb Mt. Whitney?

Anthony Slosar: My original reason was because my brother, Jackson, did it a couple of years ago, but I wasn’t allowed to. When I got to the top, I asked my dad if I could watch Captain America: Civil War, since I was already there. I only watched about 10 minutes of it, though.

Q: How long did it take to complete the climb?

AS: It took about 22 hours. That was with no sleep, just some one-minute catnaps; those only felt like a second.

When you get to the top, the oxygen gets thin, and you’re already tired, so it was rough. The craziest part was when my mom turned around, she wanted me to go with her, but I didn’t want to quit!

Q: Did you ever feel like giving up?

AS: There is a spot—a portal—at Mt. Whitney where some had to quit because we didn’t have any camping gear. Quitting wasn’t an option! When I finished the climb, I had no idea how much there would be left when I had to go back down. It was good for my self-esteem because it made me extra confident! My dad had a backpack, and if I wanted to stop, he was ready to cut holes in it so he could carry me, but I didn’t want that! When it turned dark, I couldn’t believe we were still going; I thought they were elves in the forest as we walked back, and I was scared, but I wouldn’t stop!

Q: Do you have advice for anyone wanting to climb mountains?

AS: Don’t quit!

THE CRAZIEST PART WAS WHEN MY MOM TURNED AROUND, SHE WANTED ME TO GO WITH HER, BUT I DIDN’T WANT TO QUIT!” — A N T H O N Y S LO S A R

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DAMIEN NOBLE ANDREWS

FAMILY AND FOOTBALL

If Slosar could hike with anyone, he would hike with his mom, dad, siblings and Tom Brady!

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Slosar also likes to play soccer, ride his bike, swim, fish, camp and play with his siblings.

Photoshoot Location: ARROYO TRAIL 17261 El Vuelo Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067

“MY DAD WAS A GOALIE, AND HE WANTED ME TO TRY IT, AND EVER SINCE THEN, I WAS IN LOVE AND JUST KEPT PLAYING.” — E L I NA L I N N E R

ELINA LINNER

GLOBAL HANDBALL PRODIGY AGE: 19

Handball—a sport that contains two teams that throw a ball from outside a goal zone, hoping to get the ball past the goalkeeper. Hailing from Sweden, Elina Linner has brought her love for the sport to the United States. With hopes of joining the US Olympic team, Linner puts everything she has in the game and credits her coach, Juliano de Oliveira, who is always there to support her as she makes her dreams come true.

Q: When did you fall in love with handball?

Elina Linner: When I was eight years old, I started playing. My dad was a goalie, and he wanted me to try it, and ever since then, I was in love and just kept playing.

Q: What do you do to shake any nerves before a big match?

EL: I usually start talking to my dad to help me get motivated. I also put headphones in and listen to music to just forget about it.

Q: Which handball players do you admire and look up to?

EL: Elizabeth Hartnett who plays for the US National Team; she’s one of my closest friends.

Q: What do you feel is your biggest achievement in handball?

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EL: That would probably be when I played in the national team in Auburn, and when I played in Brazil against other national teams.

Q: What do you hope to do with handball?

EL: For the USA Olympic team, beach handball will be in 2024, and I’m training for that. It has been one of my biggest dreams since I was little. I told my mom she’d one day see me play handball on TV. Q: What’s next for you and handball?

EL: Next year is the Pan American Championship for beach handball. If my team places high enough, we will be in the World Championships. Then, we will try to qualify for the Olympics!

IT HAS BEEN ONE OF MY BIGGEST DREAMS SINCE I WAS LITTLE. I TOLD MY MOM SHE’D ONE DAY SEE ME PLAY HANDBALL ON TV.”

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: JANE CHOUTEAU

—E LINA LINNE R

MULTIFACETED

Besides sports, Linner is also interested in real estate and has an internship.

SWEDISH LIFE

If she could play handball with anyone, Linner would play with a Swedish player named Isabelle Gullden.

Photoshoot Location: RONALD REAGAN ELEMENTARY 79800 Liberty Dr Palm Desert, CA 92211

GO/DO

It didn’t take long for jockey Joe Talamo to figure out his calling in life. At age seven his father brought him to the fairgrounds in Marrero, Louisiana to watch horse races. He was a trainer, and landed young Talamo a job cleaning stables and walking horses. He knew right then and there that Talamo wanted to be a jockey.

Now, 20 years later, he’s competing in Del Mar Thoroughbred Club’s first ever hosting of the Breeders’ Cup.

I

EASY RIDER Jockey Extraordinaire Joe Talamo Prepares for a Big Season at the Del Mar Race Track

Talamo may have been bred to be a jockey, but it took hard work to get to where he is today. Before he was old enough to even vote, legendary horse trainer Bobby Frankel recognized his talent and brought him out to Southern California. Not long after that, Talamo won the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint in 2009 at the age of 19.

Since then Southern California has been his home. It didn’t take much, having made the decision to relocate permanently after only three days here. Now he enjoys racing seasons at such fantastic venues as Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. “Del Mar is a

WRITTEN BY: MATTHEW BLACK

“It is always a good meet to compete in.” Del Mar’s racing season begins in high fashion on July 19. It’s a special year for Del Mar, because they host The Breeders’ Cup in November too.

Expect to find Talamo there riding high atop a Thoroughbred of his own.

Talamo couldn’t comment on who he’ll be riding come November, but last June he rode the powerful Melatonin to victory in a Grade 1 race in the Gold Cup at Santa Anita. This earned Melatonin an automatic spot in the Breeders’ Cup Classic race, which carries a purse of $6 million for the winner.

With over $90 million in lifetime earnings, we hope to see Talamo pilot a worthy steed to victory in November. Until then, he’s got a season to think about. “My expectations in Del Mar every year is to win as many races as I can.” With his pedigree he stands a good shot at crossing the finish line first in any race in which he participates. That’s as good a bet as any.

Ò

o Joe Talam

great track because of its location next to the ocean and great atmosphere there everyday,” he says.

TOP TIPS FOR THE TRACK

Racetrack Talk With Craig Dado, CMO and Executive VP of Del Mar Thoroughbred Club TROPHY LOOK

Ò “Everybody has their different style, but no matter how you dress, don’t leave your ‘A’ outfit in the closet,” Dado says.

BET ON IT

Ò “When it comes to horse racing, just remember that nobody really knows anything.

Don’t be afraid to pick a long shot,” Dado explains. He says not to hesitate to pick by color or name either! “Bet win, place, and show for that horse. That way you’re likely to win something,” Dado says.

SUCH GREAT HEIGHTS

DEL MAR RACETRACK 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd Del Mar, CA 92014 858.755.1141 www.dmtc.com JOE TALAMO @joetalamo

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Ò Eat at Seventeen Hands, suggests Dado.

The name stems from the height of a very tall, legendary horse named Zenyatta. It’s right on the paddock and serves gourmet tacos.

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Food Truck Festival

AND THEY’RE OFF!

Opening Day u On July 19, gates open at 11:30 a.m., with the first race at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $15, and with over 40,000 fans from all across the country expected to attend, this is sure to be one summer party you won’t want to miss.

Step up your experience and join “The Party,” giving you access to gourmet food trucks, prize giveaways, the Red Bull Tour Bus featuring top DJ’s and more, all for $35 and includes admission.

u Rolling in on July 29, enjoy food truck fare free with racetrack admission.

With over 40 gourmet food trucks all in one location, foodies can sample some of the best in Southern California without breaking the bank (most dishes cost around $6-$10). Taking place in the Seaside concert area, the toughest decision you’ll be making is what to eat next.

SMOOTH RIDE Planning on taking the train and leaving the traffic jam behind?

Del Mar provides complimentary shuttle service from Solana Beach Station to and from the track.

There’s So Much to See and Explore at the Del Mar Racetrack This Summer WRITTEN BY: TYLER HOLLAND

Everyone is ready for the seemingly endless lineup of festivals and events that are coming our way. Thousands look forward to what Del Mar Racetrack has to offer fans all summer long and this year is no exception. Keep reading and mark your calendars.

WATCH AND LEARN During the summer season every Saturday and Sunday from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m., fans can watch morning workouts while enjoying breakfast in the Clubhouse Terrace Restaurant.

Del Mar Summer Concert Series u Free concerts with paid racetrack admission ($6 for Stretch Run, $10 for Clubhouse and $20 for concert-only access after the last race) will be spanning all genres, from folk rock to EDM with big names like Steve Aoki, Steel Pulse, Slightly Stoopid and Billy Currington.

Beginning shortly after the last race, concerts will take place on the Seaside Stage at the west end of the Grandstand. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes as each concert is standing room only.

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY The Concert Series has a serious lineup: July 21 Tribal Seeds July 28 Violent Femmes August 4 Eagles of Death Metal

Craft Beer Fest

$1 Million Pacific Classic With Beach Towel Giveaway u On Aug. 19, watch some of the country’s top horses compete in the 27th running of Del Mar Racetrack's signature event covering a distance of one and a quarter miles. This is Del Mar’s richest and most prestigious race.

DEL MAR RACETRACK 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd Del Mar, CA 92014 858.755.1141 www.dmtc.com 134 LOCALE MAGAZINE

u If it’s one thing San Diegans know and love, it’s craft beer. With over 100 brews represented, including hard to find and top rated favorites, even the most discerning connoisseurs will be satisfied. Admission into the Beer Fest area is free with the track admission on Aug. 26, and a set of five, seven ounce tastings can be purchased for $20 as DJ’s provide the day’s soundtrack.

August 5 Billy Currington “Country Fest”

BBQ State Championship u Over 30 of the nation’s top BBQ Pitmasters, local restaurants and chefs compete on Aug. 20 for over $15,000 in cash prizes while, lucky for you, selling samples to the public. Admission is included in the track admission and is held in the Seaside concert area west of the Grandstand.

Just remember to grab extra napkins!

August 18 Steel Pulse

Tacotopia at the Track u On Sept. 3, over 40 of the best restaurants and food trucks from San Diego, Tijuana and Los Angeles compete for your vote for “Best Taco.” What better way to follow up Craft Beer Fest than with one of San Diego’s most loved dishes?

August 26 Slightly Stoopid September 1 The Revivalists September 3 Steve Aoki

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AFTER THE PARTY, IT’S THE

After-Party After the Del Mar Races, This is Where the Real Party Begins WRITTEN BY: JORDAN LIGONS

“PICK YOUR PONIES” PRE-PARTY EVENT

PARTY WITH ALL YOUR PEEPS

Book your private space and receive an invitation to the “Pick Your Ponies” reception on the Pacific Terrace on July 18.

Be entertained by live music, get betting advice and meet a few of your favorite Del Mar jockeys from 6 to 8 p.m.! Nibble on tasty bites, sip on select craft beers and specialty cocktails at pop-up food stations.

There are plenty of spots to reserve for your large party up to six guests. The ‘Vignette’ reserved space offers bottle service, priceless views, and a prime party location.

The Opening Day ceremonies at the Del Mar Racetrack are over; you’re still dressed to the nines, fancy hats and pocket squares abound.

Why turn in early? Head over to the Premier Opening Day After-Party (ODAP) at L’Auberge Del Mar on July 19 from 5 p.m. to midnight. This will be the spot to see and be seen, by the sea. In America’s Finest City, racing season is a hot time; the city comes alive!

Partake in the party festivities during every local’s favorite time of year.

T

Come ready to enjoy signature cocktails and meltin-your mouth appetizers.

The hotel’s mixologists will be mixing something extra special for you. This year’s signature cocktail, aptly named Off to the Races, features bourbon whiskey with ginger beer, honey

and Memphis Barbeque Bitters—yum! Kick up your feet, reserve a private cabana and enjoy this picturesque location’s speciality menu, which includes a raw bar filled with ceviche made of shrimp and white bass, poached shrimp and crab claws.

Expect even more culinary delights from Chef Nathan Lingle throughout the party.

Cavatelli pasta, chicken verde carnitas, power green salad sensation, and you can’t forget dessert; Bourbon Vanilla Cheesecake and Sangria Gummy Bears Gelees are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! Dance the night away with SoCal’s premiere DJs FishFonics and Gabe Vega spinning the ones and twos by the pool deck. Come out and get your party on, San Diego and celebrate racing season all summer long at L’Auberge Del Mar.

To book private cabanas and spaces, contact 858.720.6196.

L’AUBERGE DEL MAR 1540 Camino Del Mar Del Mar, CA 92014 858.259.1515 www.openingdayafterparty.com

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LOCAL SOUND:

Elise Trouw La Jolla Local Elise Trouw Doesn’t Miss a Beat WRITTEN BY: MATTHEW BURKE PHOTOGRAPHED BY: EVAN TIPTON

She may be a master behind the kit, but Trouw’s expertise doesn’t stop there. On her debut album, Unraveling, she sings and plays every instrument heard on the 10-track LP. The album displays her broad musical palate with soft and silky vocals over hints of contemporary jazz, funk, pop, alternative rock, and even a dash of R&B. Trouw began as a pianist at the age of six years old before she was introduced to the hands-on video game, Rock Band, where she proceeded to dominate the “Expert” level on drums.

“It wasn’t ‘real drums,’” said Trouw, “but it really introduced me to older ʼ90s music and got me into wanting to play that music on the real drums. Then I just stuck to the real drums and never looked back.”

Besides being a top-notch musician, Trouw realizes how crucial marketing herself is. Standing above a sea of talented musicians, she began posting videos of herself drumming on Instagram. It wasn’t long before a drumstick company reposted one of her videos, catapulting her into an online sensation.

“It’s important to be a musical entrepreneur, because the rise of the Internet and social media, it has opened doors for so many people, making it more competitive online.

So many people have access to putting their music out there, so you

really have to push to stand out from the others.”

The fact that Trouw is a talented well-rounded musician and is self-sufficient at marketing herself, makes her a rare breed. To top it off, she is one of very few female drummers. Although, she doesn’t want to be classified as such, “It’s definitely an emerging thing for girls to play drums. I try to think of myself primarily as a drummer, because I want to be looked as a musician, not as a girl drummer. Obviously though, it’s a novelty, and it promotes girls in music.”

FAVORITE SONG TO PLAY LIVE Ò Elise loves to cover the song, “What You Won’t Do For Love” by Bobby Caldwell. She enjoys the 16th note groove on the drums and the revolving chord progression.

FINDING INSPIRATION Ò Elise recalls being initially inspired by “My Immortal,” a song

by Evanescence, at six years old. She replayed the song for the duration of a five hour long plane ride, until she ultimately asked her parents for piano lessons.

With online success and a debut album, what is on the horizon for Trouw? Gigging and touring. But how does one convey their songs in a live setting from an album in which they play every instrument? “The goal is to be hopping around. As of right now, I mostly sing and play drums, then I have a guitarist and a bass player with me. I have been working on a live show using Ableton, so that will have different tracks, so I can bounce around between the instruments and reflect the way the album was recorded in the live show.”

Graduating high school a year early to pursue her unconventional career in music, Trouw speaks without regret. “Two years ago if you told me I would be doing this I would be like, ‘Eh, no, I’ll probably just stick to school.’ (laughing) But no, I’m really happy with where music has taken me.”

“So many people have access to putting their music out there, so you really have to push to stand out from the others.”—Elise Trouw

ELISE TROUW www.elisetrouw.com @elisetrouw Photoshoot Location: LA JOLLA, CA

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DO PROFILE

A Journey of

5 MILLION

5 Million

STEPS

EXTREME ENDURANCE ATHLETE AND AMERICAN PATRIOT CONQUERS THE COUNTRY ONE STEP AT A TIME WRITTEN BY: JESSICA YOUNG

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: GREY LOCKWOOD

Ultra runner and extreme endurance athlete, George Chmiel hated running. Growing up as a competitive athlete, playing football, basketball, baseball and hockey, Chmiel never set foot on a track. He had no interest in distance running, much less extreme distances of 100 miles or more.

Even as he slowly made his way into the sport, he didn’t enjoy it.

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GEORGE CHMIEL www.facebook.com/runacrossamerica @runacrossamerica Photoshoot Location: USS MIDWAY MUSEUM 910 N Harbor Dr San Diego, CA 92101 LOCALE MAGAZINE 141

“I’d go on short runs from my office in New York, just up and down the street. I hated it. It was awful and monotonous.

I kept asking myself, ‘Why am I doing this?’ What I eventually realized, though, was that I needed a goal. There needed to be some sort of finish line.”

—George Chmiel

“I’d go on short runs from my office in New York, just up and down the street.

I hated it. It was awful and monotonous. I kept asking myself, ‘Why am I doing this?’ What I eventually realized, though, was that I needed a goal. There needed to be some sort of finish line,” C H M I E L S A I D. He knew that if he was going to enjoy running, he needed to approach it differently— not as a hobby, but as a competition.

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Most runners ease their way into racing with shorter distances—5ks, 10ks, half marathons. But Chmiel went from zero to 26.2 miles immediately. Without any training or experience, he signed up for the 2007 Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon in San Diego.

Despite his less than slick preparation for the race, Chmiel was hooked. Crossing the finish line, he said, was life-changing for him.

“I had learned that mind-over-matter mindset. I didn’t train at all for the race and just gutted it out. That taught me a lot about myself. We’re all capable of a lot more than we give ourselves credit for—we just have to get ourselves to push,” he said.

Chmiel’s ability to push himself beyond his conceived limits, coupled with his competitive, all-or-nothing nature, led him to endurance running and paved the way for him to become an extreme athlete. Since his marathon debut in 2007, he has completed an additional 25 marathons, run 100-mile races on six continents and is one of over 200 people to have completed the 4 Deserts Race Series.

As impressive as his running resume is, Chmiel knew he could do more. He wanted to couple his competitive addiction and

knack for conquering massive distances under extreme circumstances with philanthropy. Much like racing, Chmiel has also found success (and a goal) in his efforts to fundraise for charitable organizations.

Most notably, he has raised more than $250,000 for the MAGIC Foundation, which works to fight children’s growth disorders.

He was inspired to start raising money for MAGIC after seeing his goddaughter, Luci, face down her own illness.

Chmiel set his sights on another cause. In September, he embarked a cross-country journey that would take him from the deck of the USS Midway in San Diego, to Ground Zero in New York City. Chmiel planned to tackle the 3,005-mile trek on foot, hoping to run upwards of 50 miles a day. This journey, an estimated five million steps, was all part of Chmiel’s effort to raise funds and awareness for the Guardian for Heroes Foundation, an operation that helps combat veterans navigate physical, mental, and emotional struggles through physical fitness. Chmiel promoted his quest under the banner of BeastMode for the Brave, an initiative to raise funds and increase awareness of veteran issues by using one’s skills, talents and passions in any desired capacity.

BREAKING IT DOWN Ò On Jan. 24, 2017, Chmiel finished the journey he started in San Diego on Sept.

11. He ran for 93 days, averaging about 33 miles a day.

THE PATRIOT GAMES ENTERPRISE Ò Chmiel is launching TPG, a national fundraising competition between 25 nonprofits that produces unique and extreme one-day physical fitness challenges designed to promote social good while simultaneously creating a broad platform to raise awareness and money for each of the participating charities.

The inaugural games are scheduled for Spring 2018.

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SOPHISTICATED

SUNBATHING The Pool House Isn’t Your Average Pool Party WRITTEN BY: JEANNETTE SWANSON

The open-air venue rests upon the third floor of the Pendry San Diego, a stately construction that occupies nearly two-thirds of the block. It’s only logical that an establishment with such a bold presence would have an equally daring rooftop deck. And by daring, we mean that the rooftop deck effortlessly steps out in the simplicity of its clean, cool and refined ambiance and decor.

GET ‘EM WHILE THEY’RE HOT

An assortment of day beds, cabanas and poolside seating options wrap around the rectangular pool and adjacent hot tub. Since reservations of seats can be made online, the accessibility of this venue encourages attendance at this summer’s pool party series that LOCALE is proud to be partners with.

A NEW KIND OF PARTY

The series’ presentation will show off a new class of pool party that downtown has yet to see. Guests will enjoy pop up surprises from DJ’s around the world and surprise celebrity guests. Guests will experience Pool House Sundays, a European-style pool party, complete with tropical beats and vocal house.

A STEP UP

And who are these guests? The elevated character of the deck attracts a crowd that has grown tired of a deck covered in last night’s confetti. Here, the party begins at

5 p.m. and runs until late, making this an evening that’s in no rush to reach the apex of the night.

SIPS AND BITES

As for food and bevvies, the menu features the best sellers of the downstairs restaurant, Lionfish, and upstairs Pool House.

On the menu, created by Chef Jose “JoJo” Ruiz, you’ll taste a cuisine that’s inspired by its proximity to the coast and south of the border, Mexico-land. Try the Tajin Seared Albacore, Spicy Grilled Octopus or the Duck Confit Tostadas. The small plate nature of the menu, including drinks that come in pitchers, ultimately creates a shareable atmosphere that effortlessly promotes your interaction with the third floor community.

And from the bar that’s tucked away beneath the guest rooms, you’ll find a refined menu of craft cocktails and beer, plus sparkling wine based drinks that are called ‘Refreshers.’

The bar’s happy hour, #socialhourSD, is a competitive happy hour that boasts half off drinks, appetizers and $1 oysters from 5-6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Choose to sip on a mule or a frozen drink for one of the hotter days of summer.

COME ONE, COME ALL

The Pool House is open daily 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. for hotel and spa guests only, and is then open to the public for social gatherings like Rooftop Social and Pool House Sundays.

THE POOL HOUSE AT PENDRY SAN DIEGO 550 J Street San Diego, CA 92101 619.738.7030 www.pendryhotels.com

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FIRST TIMER’S GUIDE

THE COAST

IS CLEAR A WE E KE N D IN SANTA B ARB ARA, THE LOCAL WAY WRITTEN BY: ALANA ARONSON

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OFTENTIMES, WHEN WE ARE IN NEED OF A VACATION OR HAVE AN OVERWHELMING FEELING OF WANDERLUST, WE GET STUCK IN THE BELIEF THAT HOPPING ON A PLANE OR PLANNING A WEEK-LONG ROAD TRIP EIGHT HOURS IN ANY DIRECTION IS THE ANSWER.

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Saturday

A LOOK FROM THE TOP Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, I was craving an opportunity to get out in the city and soak up the views—from the top. We drove from Isla Vista to Tunnel Road so we could hike Inspiration Point. Relatively short and totally doable for even a beginner, the trail took us through lush greenery and narrow dirt trails sure to amp the adrenaline rush. Once we reached the top, I was gifted with a view of almost the entire city and even the Channel Islands! I got my cardio in for the day, and was ready to descend and check out the local cuisine.

Friday Evening

THE DRIVE UP Kerouac can praise Big Sur all he wants, but the drive through the central coast felt unmatched by any other. An hour away from my destination, I caught a glimpse of the coastline. Each mile I drove seemed to take me closer to the shore, the beaches and piers looking like a paradise within themselves.

Coming in just after sunset, I passed the main Santa Barbara exits, drove a few miles out of town and exited, excited as I pulled down the private drive and into the courtyard of the Bacara Resort. This was exactly what we needed.

DINE AND BUY: On Milpas Street stands Los Agaves restaurant, with the most amazing enchiladas I’ve ever had—the Agaves Enchiladas. Fresh shrimp and halibut were stuffed into tortillas alongside peppers and onions.

A creamy chipotle sauce, with just enough kick, coated the dish and left me perfectly content after our morning excursion. With full hearts—and stomachs—it was time to shop. Our first stop: Whiskey + Leather on Coast Village Road. Owned by two Santa Barbara local ladies, this store was the ideal mix of both delicate and functional pieces. I found a perfect shirt for the night’s festivities and was off to the next destination!

What is a weekend without the perfect playlist?

We popped on over to Warbler Records on De La Guerra Street where I picked out a vintage record to set the weekend’s anthem to: Sonic Youth’s “Daydream Nation.” Now I was definitely ready to “jump into the day…”

LOS AGAVES MILPAS www.los-agaves.com | WHISKEY + LEATHER www.whiskeyleather.com WARBLER RECORDS & GOODS www.warblerrecords.com

Just around three hours north of Orange County, though, is Santa Barbara—a city teeming with eclectic storefronts, restaurants, and bars. The people are vibrant and adventurous, the beaches pristine. Santa Barbara is the perfect destination for a weekend away. For those who haven’t had the chance to explore and experience the coastal community, this guide is just for you. From restaurants that build their menus around local flavors and flora, to breathtaking views of the central coast, local is the theme of this SB guide. For those who have frequented the beach city before, this guide might just offer you a new destination, or two, you never knew existed.

GETTING FUNKY

THE LARK SANTA BARBARA www.thelarksb.com | MCCONNELL’S FINE ICE CREAMS www.mcconnells.com M.SPECIAL BREWING COMPANY mspecialbrewco.com | WILDCAT LOUNGE www.wildcatlounge.com

For dinner, we went to The Lark on Anacapa Street, right in the Funk Zone—Santa Barbara’s art and boutique destination district. The décor was captivating; repurposed and vintage pieces added charm and history to the already stunning building.

Moving through the restaurant, I saw communal seating, a relaxed outdoor dining area, intimate tables for two and incredibly knowledgable and eager staff. The menu at The Lark is local, seasonal and served family style.

That’s right—shared plate dining! We started with their Southern Pimento Cheese snack. Provolone, smoked gouda and serrano chillies perfectly pickled, were served in a mason jar, and accompanied with beautifully grilled bread. Next came their Marinated & Grilled Hanger Steak. The dish was a work of art—served on a rustic wooden platter and scattered with dark green charred broccoli and a medium rare short rib that paired too perfectly with their handcrafted citrus and jalapeño JP’s Paloma cocktail.

It’s In the Bag A Traveler’s Musts for a Weekend Away Ú A fabulous weekender bag by Clare V. Ú Bathing Suit Ú Little Black Dress (or a dapper suit for the gents) Ú An adventurous attitude!

Take a Hike 5 Can’t Miss Hikes With Views to Wonder Over Ú Gaviota Wind Caves Ú Knapp’s Castle Ú Hot Springs Ú 7 Falls Ú Cathedral Peak Life’s a Beach 5 of the Best Beaches in and Near Santa Barbara Ú Butterfly Beach Ú East Beach Ú Leadbetter Beach Ú Carpinteria State Beach Ú Summerland Beach

WILD NIGHT OUT SWEETS AND SIPS Feeling content after dinner at The Lark, my friend and I headed to Santa Barbara’s legendary McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams on State Street so I could find out what all of the hype was about. Let me tell you, the taste definitely matched the talk. My eyes were much larger than my stomach at this point, but I opted for a berry-licious ice cream sandwich, which was tart and sweet in all the right places—blueberries and cream ice cream and a peanut butter cookie, to be exact. Energized from the sugar rush, we headed over to M.Special Brewing Company. This brewery has enlisted its very own inhouse brewmaster to concoct sinfully delicious beers, who happens to be a Santa Barbara local. Considering I’m a lover of all things local, I felt it was only right to experience the libations of a Central Coast native during my trip. I ordered up a hoppy Double IPA, M.Special’s Lazy Eye Special, and enjoyed the buzz of the (un)surprisingly flavorful brew.

Relishing in the spirited sips of M.Special, I felt it was an appropriate time to hit the dance floor. Wildcat Lounge on Ortega Street called me inside with its hypnotic and musical purrs that seemed to flood all of Santa Barbara. Former SB local, Katy Perry, even sings about this place in her song “This Is How We Do”—so you KNOW you’re in for a night to remember. Walls lined with red leather upholstery and disco lights carried me away until closing time.

Sunday

We arrived back at the resort just in time to make s'mores around their grand outdoor fireplace with all of the fixings supplied by the hotel. My friends and I enjoyed a glass of wine at the bar of their onsite steakhouse Angel Oak and then turned in to enjoy our luxurious suite and comfy bed.

Feeling the joyful aches of the Saturday Night Fever that overcame me just hours prior, I knew I was in need of some fresh roast to jumpstart my last day in Santa Barbara. Per the suggestion of my dear friend, we headed to Handlebar Coffee Roasters, another business run by locals!

Waking up to the sounds of waves crashing might sound pleasant but the thing we appreciated most was the absence of sound. The Bacara Resort stands alone like a massive private residence taking up 78-bluff top acres above Gaviota Beach. The view from both our room and the pool was mesmerizing.

Long off breaking waves and the pool framed by palm trees created the postcard-worthy landscape to the entire stay.

After my morning jolt, it was time to fuel up for the ride home—with brunch, of course. Scarlett Begonia has a menu as inspired as the guests who frequent, especially since this spot utilizes organic and sustainable ingredients in its dishes. The menu at Scarlett Begonia changes weekly—always ensuring that its patrons will experience unique and innovative dishes. I ordered their Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, which came served with their homemade syrup and a fresh out of the garden tasting berry compote. With a full heart, I was ready to hit the road. My action-packed, indulgent weekend in Santa Barbara was more than memorable, and I can’t wait to head back up again for another chance to experience the central coast.

PICTURESQUE VIEWS

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RISE & GRIND

BACARA RESORT 8301 Hollister Ave Goleta, CA 93117 844.276.0955 www.meritagecollection.com/bacararesort

HANDLEBAR COFFEE ROASTERS www.handlebarcoffee.com | SCARLETT BEGONIA www.scarlettbegonia.net

Saturday Night / Sunday Morning

PHOTO BY: Kambria Fischer

HOME

///AWAY

JUNE 2017

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HARRAH’S POOLSIDE Spend Your Summer Poolside at Harrah’s Resort Southern California

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ESCAPE: SOUTH AFRICA How to Explore South Africa in Luxury

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SETTING THE TABLE CaliforniAloha

Executive Chef Steven Riemer Takes Us on a Mini Foodie Vacay to Hawaii

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SETTING THE TABLE Celebrate Luau Season at Oceana Coastal Kitchen

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VIVA LOS CABOS Reasons to Stay at the Sheraton Grand Los Cabos Hacienda del Mar

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AWAY FEATURE What Happens in Vegas Stays at the Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino

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SU CASA Experience the Home With Sweeping Views of America’s Finest City

OCEANA COASTAL KITCHEN Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa 3999 Mission Blvd San Diego, CA 92109 858.539.8635 www.catamaranresort.com

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HOME/AWAY

JUST ADD

HARRAH'S RESORT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA 777 Harrah’s Rincon Way Funner, CA 92082 760.751.3100 www.caesars.com/harrahs-socal/hotel

WATER

Harrah's Resort Southern California Boasts Summer Fun and Swim-Up Bar WRITTEN BY: KEANA MCGRATH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: HARRAH’S RESORT SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

S

Summer is here, bringing daydreams of lounging poolside with a drink in hand, miles away from home, sun-soaked and relaxing.

Harrah’s Resort Southern California turns these summertime dreams into reality with its oasis-like property, perfect for a summer getaway.

As a AAA Four-Diamond Award-winning resort, Harrah’s Resort SoCal is one of California’s premier entertainment, gaming and relaxation destinations, offering the perfect location for locals and visitors alike to escape, relax and play. In addition to REO Speedwagon performing live at The Events Center, guests can indulge in the ultimate tasting experience while supporting the Japan Society’s numerous educational programs at Harrah’s Resort SoCal’s 15th Annual Beer & Sake Festival on Friday, June 16. With more than 100 varieties of sake, local craft beers (including the resort’s own brewery, SR76), exciting entertainment, and delicious appetizers from top chefs in the city, the festival showcases the best of San Diego and Japan.

If you’re looking to soak up the sun, look no further. Harrah’s Resort SoCal’s Dive, a trifecta of pools, features a main pool, eight hot tubs, Southern California’s only swim-up bar, and a 400-foot lazy river that winds its way through grottos and waterfalls! The pools are surrounded by cabanas, day beds, seven luxury lounges, palapas and fire pits. Add in food and beverage options from Dive’s premier pool bar and restaurant and you’ll never have to leave this outdoor paradise. Literally. You don’t even have to leave the pool to get yourself one of

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Dive’s refreshing citrus cocktails! Dive offers entertainment all summer long with weekly pool parties.

Dive’s weekly “Latin Thursdays,” an entertainment experience featuring live bands and DJs come to play Latin music and get guests dancing. Every Friday and Saturday evening Dive hosts “Dive After Dark,” where guests can splash around at night with live entertainment from the band Fresh and video DJs playing the top hits. Guests can end the weekend with “Reggae Sundays,” where Dive welcomes two live reggae-style bands, one traditional and the other reggae-rock. So, whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the pool or to party in your swimsuit, Dive is the ultimate option for summer fun-seekers.

Harrah’s Resort SoCal has plenty more to offer inside its resort and casino. With over a thousand guest rooms, including 22 newly remodeled wellness-inspired rooms with amenities including yoga mats, vitamin C-infused showers, and a built-in sound system, hotel guests are bound to stay in style. Its casino is outfitted with 68 Vegasstyle table games and 1,700 slots, giving players a plethora of options for a gambling Vegas-style experience closer to home. The resort also recently became the first in Southern California to feature interactive gaming experiences from Gamblit Gaming, the leading publisher of real-money and skill-based games for land-based casinos.

In addition to fun and games, Harrah’s Resort SoCal has several restaurants including a buffet, their classic steakhouse, Fiore, ‘Ritas Cantina and Oyster Bar.

DIVE DETAILS • 21 Poolside Cabanas • 400-Foot Lazy River • 3 Pools • 1 Swim-up Bar • 8 Hot Tubs

NOW POURING • For all you beer lovers out there, Harrah’s Resort SoCal has recently opened its new brewery, SR76!

NAC HELICOPTERS E Pier Rd, V & A Waterfront Cape Town, 8001 South Africa www.nachelicopterscapetown.com

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into the

WILD

EXPERIENCE A LUXURIOUS ADVENTURE TO SOUTH AFRICA WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY: BRIANNA ROMANO

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THE VINEYARD HOTEL Colinton Rd Newlands, Cape Town 7700 South Africa www.vineyard.co.za

I was both excited and nervous to be traveling as just two girls in a foreign country not particularly known for its safety, but I was confident once I got there that my fears would ease. I have always been the first one to say yes to any adventure, but a sense of anxiety rushed over me as I walked through the sliding glass doors into the airport.

People asked, “WHY SOUTH AFRICA?” so many times I lost count, I don’t think many people seemed to know that you could have a luxury girls getaway there, little did we know we were about to blow everyone’s minds, and our own.

My friend Andrea and I met when she was an exchange student from Maryland at my high school. We both got kicked out of class for not doing our homework and had to sit outside—we've been friends ever since. I spent the next month or so driving her around Southern California trying to give her every experience I could possibly give her. We would see each other every few years, but this time, instead of visiting each other in Orange County or New York, I suggested we pull out our bucket lists.

South Africa was on both of ours, so we booked a flight that week.

We arrived in Cape Town after a fivehour flight to meet Andrea in New York, a five-hour layover, a 15-hour flight to Johannesburg that ended in us giving some “good samaritan” $20 for helping us find our next terminal (Lesson #1Bring smaller bills for tipping or don’t let anyone help you in the airport unless you want to pay for it.) and a two-hour flight to Cape Town. Luckily, we slept for the majority of the flight, so arriving at 1 p.m. was an easy transition with no jet lag.

We picked up our rental car and blasted “Circle of Life” from the Lion King with no shame, as I began learning to drive on the left side of the road and the right side of the car.

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cape town

T H E VI N E YA R D H O TEL

A short 20-minute drive later, we arrived at The Vineyard Hotel, a seven-acre riverside garden estate on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain about 15 minutes outside of the city. We checked in and made our way into our suite, where we plopped our bags down in the living room and booked it straight for the patio with the most awe striking view of Table Mountain overlooking their lush garden. We quickly decided we needed to explore and followed the pathway through the gardens back to the pool where we spent the rest of the day laying out and drinking cosmos and mojitos.You could literally

just spend your entire trip at The Vineyard Hotel enjoying their amazing dining options, amenities, and property. During our stay, we took advantage of their fully stocked gym.

With floor to ceiling windows looking out at Table Mountain, running on a treadmill isn’t so bad. I have never been as enthusiastic about making sure we did not miss breakfast as I was here, we started every morning with their complimentary continental breakfast at The Square Restaurant, and ended almost every night at the Garden Lounge chatting with locals and fellow travelers.

4 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE VINEYARD HOTEL ¢ A tortoise lives on site. We found this out after running into him in the garden. ¢ Their riverside garden overlooking Table Mountain is so beautiful and peaceful, you will want to walk around the property every day. ¢ They have five options for food and drink on the property. We tried and loved them all, including room service, but especially loved the hospitality at the Garden Lounge (Say ‘hi’ to our favorite bartender, Boyce!) and Myoga, an independently owned Japanese-inspired restaurant. ¢ Amenities include an indoor and outdoor pool, health and fitness center, and Angsana Spa.

EXPLORING CAPE TOWN STREETS ¢ Bree Street - hipster trendy restaurants, bars, and cafes ¢ Kloof Rd. - fashion boutiques, art galleries, interior design shops, and restaurants ¢ Long Street - best known for nightlife

NAC HELICOPTERS We booked a helicopter tour with NAC Helicopters, who are a well-known spot for offering a variety of chartered and private helicopter rides in Cape Town. They are right near the V & A Waterfront, an iconic landmark in Cape Town where there are a number of shops and restaurants. We spent the day wandering around The Watershed, an indoor market on the waterfront, then arrived to pre-flight champagne before we hopped in the helicopter for a 15-minute private tour. Cape Town is one of the coolest cities to see from above. If you can take a helicopter tour anywhere in the world, this would be at the top of my list.

TABLE MOUNTAIN

#VIEWS We took The Hopper Tour which included views of: ¢ City Bowl ¢ Sea Point ¢ Camps Bay ¢ Green Point ¢ Clifton ¢ Twelve Apostles

NAC HELICOPTERS E Pier Rd, V & A Waterfront Cape Town, 8001 South Africa www.nachelicopterscapetown.com

CABLEWAY WONDERS OF THE WORLD The Table Mountain Cableway is one of three rotating trams in the world—the others are in Switzerland and in Palm Springs!

TOUR THE TOWNSHIP ¢ We took a tour of the township with a friend.

Although there are many tours available to visit the townships, you do not want to go without a guide as it can be a little dangerous, but the locals are extremely friendly and are excited to have visitors. We had lunch at a Braai where we had Sheep’s Rib and a Castle, a well known South African beer, for lunch.

GO WITH UBER ¢ Having a car in Cape Town was one of the best things we could have done. We felt completely safe driving around during the day, but at night it is dangerous to drive, so you can Uber everywhere once it gets dark, which is the safest option.

Our next adventure was Table Mountain.

It’s possible to hike up the mountain, but we took a cable car up to the top, where we prepared to rappel down the mountain with Abseil Africa. The instructors put us in harnesses and gave us a brief tutorial on how to run the ropes and descend safely. If you are afraid of heights like me, you’re going to have to be ready to conquer your fears. As I made my way to the edge of the rock to begin rappelling down, I refused to look backwards for fear that I would not go through with it.

Two people can descend at a time, while two instructors lead from the top and one from the bottom. As we stepped off the top of the mountain at 3,558 feet above sea level, adrenaline pumped through us for the three minute descent. We were glad we filmed the entire thing because we felt, after watching the footage, we may have blacked out during the adventure.

BO KAAP ¢ Bo Kaap, a Muslim neighborhood of brightly painted houses, is home to Cape Town’s first mosque, and is one of the most photographed parts of Cape Town.

DO SOMETHING WITH A LOCAL! ¢ A friend of mine in the states made the connection with a local in Cape Town.

Ryan, or ‘Menno’ as everyone calls him, had us meet him at a local bar that was attached to a hostel called Yours Truly, where locals and fellow travelers congregate. This became our favorite place for late night pizza and beer. The next night, he made us dinner with three of his roommates at their house and we taught them how to play Heads Up!

ABSEIL AFRICA 297 Long St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa www.abseilafrica.co.za LOCALE MAGAZINE 159

stellenbosch

The next day we made our way an hour outside of Cape Town to STELLENBOSCH, a small university town in South Africa’s Western Cape province, surrounded by the vineyards of the Cape Winelands. It’s the kind of place where the city has it’s own free Wi-Fi network.

CLOS MALVERNE On our second day in Stellenbosch, we woke up to the best weather we had the entire time we were in South Africa. It was a perfect day to do some wine tasting. We hopped in our shuttle and made our way to Clos Malverne, a family-owned wine estate about four miles from the center of Stellenbosch in The Devon Valley.

We arrived to a warm welcome from Clos Malverne’s Communications Manager Erich Zeelie, who took us on a tour of the wine farm and taught us a little bit about the winemaking process and the history of the wine farm. We walked out into the 66-acre vineyard that lays in a valley where the early morning mist keeps the grapes cool in the summer and the slopes of the valley allow for the perfect amount of sunlight, creating ideal conditions for the grapes to ripen.

OUD E WERF H O TEL 4 THINGS WE LOVE ABOUT OUDE WERF HOTEL: On-Call Spa Services ¢ In-room spa services are available, you just need to book 24 hours in advance. We both got massages and opted to have them outside on our patio.

Oude Werf is an intimate 58-room hotel blending contemporary comfort and periodinspired ambiance. It is the perfect place to stay because it is right in the middle of the town and walking distance from the main street in Stellenbosch lined with cafes, artisan shops, and of course wine bars. We stayed in one of their Luxury Suites, which had its own private lawn with chairs to lay out on in the sun overlooking their courtyard and pool. We spent our first day sunbathing on our patio sipping on rosé and snacking on a fruit plate.

Friendly Staff ¢ After a long day out, the manager sent us up a bottle of champagne to end the day. I also thought I lost my jacket at one point and he even went to my car for me to look for it.

They also booked our shuttle service and made reservations at a local restaurant for us.

Their customer service is unparalleled.

Pool & Lounging Patio ¢ Seriously! We loved that patio.

Central to the City ¢ You are walking distance from pretty much everything.

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ICE CREAM & WINE TASTINGS ¢ This was the first wine estate in Stellenbosch to offer a unique tasting experience in the form of an ice cream and wine pairing. It has since become one of their signature pairings with seasonal, handmade delicacies.

STAY & PLAY ¢ Clos Malverne has three luxurious guest rooms; two family cottages and a private pool as well as an onsite spa.

OUDE WERF HOTEL 30 Church St Stellenbosch, 7600 South Africa www.oudewerfhotel.co.za

As the wine business becomes more industrialized, Clos Malverne keeps it old school, which is part of their charm. They are one the few wineries left in the world that uses a basket press, which is the oldest method of pressing grapes. The winery also uses the method of open fermentation in a cement tank (called a ‘kuip’), where the grapes are crushed, and their grape skin caps are pushed down by hand.

They can crush 400 tons of grapes and yield up to 350 tons a year, where the wine is then stored in French and American oak casks to mature.

Sustainability is an important focus of the winemaking industry in South Africa. There is even a labeling system that ensures that the wine you are buying has met their standards for sustainability, called “Integrity & Sustainability Certification.” Clos Malverne complies with this system and also does their part growing many of their own organic vegetable and herbs without pesticides and herbicides. All the organic waste from the restaurant is used as compost for the garden, reducing their carbon footprint and creating more employment opportunities. The staff is also able to take home any vegetables that have been picked and left over for the day.

The view from the dining terrace is unbeatable.

The patio completely opens up and overlooks the vineyard on a backdrop of miles of rolling hills and mountains in the distance. We sat down for a fourcourse meal and wine pairing that was the best we had on our entire trip—which was no surprise, seeing as Executive Chef Nadia Louw Smith hides away with a bottle of Ellie somewhere on the property seasonally to come up with an amazing and innovative new menu.

Her menus have inspired a kind of cult following, where people come back seasonally to get their fix.

CLOS MALVERNE Devon Valley Rd Stellenbosch, 7600 South Africa www.closmalverne.co.za

Q&A WITH

EMILE KOTZE OF BRAVO’S “BELOW DECK” & DREAM CREATOR AT AFRICAN TRAVEL KID

R O A DT RI PPI NG the cape penninsula

Q: What inspired you to start a travel company and what is your vision behind it?

Emile Kotze: I left South Africa. I traveled, worked on Yachts and then was approached to be part of a TV show called “Below Deck.” I suddenly got a burst of followers on social media, especially on Instagram, where I posted photos of my travel adventures followed with the hashtag #africantravelkid as my signature. I received DMs where I was frequently asked how I had so much fun. I really do love being outdoors and having adventures in nature, it recharges me.

On a trip to the wild coast of South Africa, I was walking on a deserted beach where I had a euphoric moment where I realized I should show people how to have fun, awesome adventures and do it for a living as it is a passion of mine. I wanted to show Americans that they can come to explore Africa in an easy way with me. I have done it on yachts and I have studied business. It was destined to be. My vision is to show people from all over the beauty of the outdoors, to show them how much energy and positivity it generates, show them how beautiful life is, and that the spirit of the African child is within all of us.

Feeling refreshed after a relaxing two days, we headed back to Cape Town where we met up with Emile Kotze, owner of African Travel Kid, who was about to take us on a day long road trip. We knew Emile from the Bravo show “Below Deck,” and had heard that he started a travel company that was focused on giving you a more personalized experience, rather than some big tour group, so we were excited when he agreed to take us on a roadtrip for the day. We gave him an idea of what was on our list of things to see and he took the lead from there. We became quick friends as he is extremely personable and a fun person to travel with. Our favorites were driving through Chapman’s Peak, a well-known drive that's reminiscent of driving PCH in Northern California, Boulder’s Beach, a sheltered cove known for its African penguins, and we ended our day with some seafood at Kalky's Fish & Chips in Kalk Bay, a well known local spot for a huge plate of seafood.

Q: What is your favorite trip out of the trips you offer?

EK: Well, each trip I offer out of the five different trips is unique in their own way. I offer half day trips, full day trips, three-day trips, week trips, and two-week trips. All the trips are bespoke and customizable. I use my experience I have gained from the yachting industry to meet the needs of all guests on the trip. If I have to choose one, I must say the two-week trip from Cape Town up to the Garden Route must be my utmost favorite.

INSTAGRAM WORTHY: ¢ Hout Bay ¢ Chapman’s Peak Cape Point ¢ Boulders Beach ¢ Simon’s Town ¢ Kalk Bay ¢ St. James Beach ¢ Muizenberg Beach ¢ Simons Town

Q: If you could take anyone to one place in all of South Africa where would it be?

EK: That would be the whole of South Africa! [laughs] But, a place to see before you die has to be Storms River Mouth; it is magical.

Q: What do you see as the biggest difference between your experience in America versus South Africa?

EK: America is way more humanized and developed all over, whereas South Africa has some room to go, and as a result, it is more wild west in South Africa; there are a lot of natural spots to explore.

Q: Which would you choose plane, train, or automobile?

EK: Depends on the situation. I don’t mind, but overall, the good old automobile, as it is, very convenient.

AFRICAN TRAVEL KID Emile Kotze | @emile_kotze | www.AfricanTravelKid.com LOCALE MAGAZINE 161

SHARK DIVING IN GANSBAAI The next morning we left at 4 a.m. to go shark diving in Gansbaai. We stepped outside and it was raining. We were a little worried because the trip we had originally booked got postponed because of weather, and we were about to drive two hours for something that could have been canceled, but that’s what an adventure is about, right? I drove two hours in the rain, on pitch black mountain roads. To this day I am not sure if it was dumb or brave but I’m alive to tell the story.

After a brief safety overview, we set out to sea on ‘White Shark,’ a 12-meter long sea-cabin cruiser that has been custom built to the specifications required and is the most recent boat built in the shark cage diving industry. After a 15-minute boat ride, we arrived at ‘Shark Alley,’ a channel of ocean so frequented by great white sharks it received this nickname. Andrea and I immediately got sea sick once the anchor dropped. The crew began to set up the cage and throw out a large frozen fish head on a line to attract the sharks, and we waited.

cape town

MA NNABAY THINGS WE LOVE ABOUT MANNABAY

Food & Drink ¢ Local beverages and house wines are complimentary for guests. The complimentary breakfast includes a small buffet and a choice of hot breakfasts to order. Afternoon high tea includes a variety of decadent sweet and savory treats, a glass of Graham Beck rosé, Methodé Cap Classique, tea, coffee, and juices.

Transportation ¢ Complimentary airport transfer, and oncall chauffeur to dinner, GPS navigation devices for guests to use in their rental vehicles, free parking in their gated lot, and you’re given a gate remote for easy access.

Facilities & Extras ¢ Swimming pool, laundry, gym with a steam room, Wi-Fi, media center with flat-screen TV and full entertainment center in each room with a variety of satellite channels and an extensive selection of movies and music available, rooftop bar area, and fire pit.

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We came back to Cape Town and checked into our next hotel tucked away in a residential neighborhood on the other side of Table Mountain. MannaBay is a luxury boutique hotel with only eight rooms and sleeps only 16 guests to create a more exclusive and intimate setting. You could potentially rent out the entire hotel for a private function, and they do so frequently. The eclectic design, contemporary art, and a panoramic view of the entire city are just the beginning of why this is an ideal place to stay in Cape Town. Each room has its own theme, as well as extra-length king size beds that can be made into twins.

They have over 3,000 books in the rooms and in their floor-to-ceiling bookshelves in the lounge. As you walk up the marble staircase with floor-to-ceiling windows, you are surrounded by art. MannaBay is focused on celebrating

South African artists, and uses their walls to showcase the creations of the country’s well established artists, giving each area of the hotel its eclectic feel.

The thing that really puts MannaBay over the top is that the staff is extremely attentive and friendly. They have a 24-hour butler service, and really go out of their way to make you feel at home, which I think is important when you are staying in such a small space. They put a high priority on personalizing your stay there. We had missed high tea on the day of our arrival, but they went out of the way to put together an entire spread for us to snack on while we lounged in one of the common areas. We had also told the staff that we would be leaving at 4 a.m. to go shark diving. As we walked down the stairs they had a bag of snacks and juice ready to take on our drive. It’s the little things.

MANNABAY 8 Bridle Rd, Oranjezicht, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa www.mannabay.com

FAVORITE NIGHT ¢ We spent one night in playing scrabble with a bottle of wine in our room.

NATIVE KNOWLEDGE ¢ White Shark Diving Co. runs an internship program for biology students and shark enthusiasts who are interested in getting involved in some shark conservation and research. www.sharkcagediving. co.za/volunteerprogramme

We didn’t have to wait very long before two sharks arrived. The great white shark is a surface feeder, so you don’t need to be very far down to see them.

You only need the provided wetsuit and snorkeling gear; no dive gear is required. The crew stands above the cage as you bob up and down, as they shout to dunk back down and slide your feet under a bar to keep you down. They even have a videographer there to capture the whole experience for you. The water is very cold, but is easily ignored with all the excitement around.

There is some controversy with the ethics of shark cage diving, but Gansbaai is known for their strong conservation principles, and White Shark Diving Co. is a founding member of the Great White Protection Foundation and has been a leading voice in the call for operators to collaborate in protecting the dwindling number of sharks and other marine species off the South African coastline.

T IP ¢ You can have a car service drive you or have the diving company set up transportation.

If you choose to drive, make sure you know the local emergency numbers in case you get a flat tire or something goes wrong.

WHITE SHARK DIVING CO. 9 Kusfront, Van Dyks Bay, 7220, South Africa www.sharkcagediving.co.za

Kruger National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in South Africa.

SAFARI in kruger national park We flew from Cape Town back to Johannesburg to Skukuza to get to Kruger National Park. The flight from Johannesburg to Skukuza is only an hour on a very small passenger plane. We were picked up from the airport and drove about 40 minutes to Rhino Post Safari Lodge, a luxury safari lodge with eight suites inside Kruger National Park. Each suite is built out of stone, wood, and thatch, has an outdoor shower, bed with mosquito nets, and has a large private patio looking over the Mutlumuvi Riverbed.

All accommodations, game drives, food, and drink, except for alcohol, are included.

Each day we woke up at 6 a.m., and went for a morning game drive. We spent the afternoons drinking wine on the patio watching animals crossing into our camp. A family of elephants walked through our camp to drink from a watering hole that sits in front of the viewing deck and a leopard crossed through at night. In the late

afternoon we would head out on another game drive, and would stop at sunset to get out of the truck for some wine and snacks. We would continue the drive into the dark, then head back for dinner with everyone staying at the camp.

I would say to anyone, if a safari is not on your bucket list, that needs to change right now. It is such an amazing adrenaline pumping experience. When our guide Joey found out there were wild dogs near us while talking to another guide through a radio, he basically floored it to get over to them. One night we were driving down a road back to our camp when a rhino and her baby were crossing the road. We had scared her and she began charging at us. Joey quickly whipped the truck into reverse and yelled at her to stop.

She stopped then tried a second time before finally letting us pass.

There are only about 450-500 wild dogs in the entire park, which is about 7,523 square miles. *Our game driver, Joey, told us that we must be good luck charms because every time we took a drive, we would see the Big 5 which includes the lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros. The phrase itself was coined by African hunters and refers to the five most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt on foot.

RHINO POST SAFARI LODGE Kruger National Park, South Africa www.rhinopost.co.za LOCALE MAGAZINE 163

S E T T I N G the TA B L E

CALIFORNIalo ha EXECUTIVE CHEF STEVEN RIEMER TAKES US ON A MINI FOODIE VACAY TO HAWAII

WRITTEN BY: MATTHEW BLACK PHOTOGRAPHED BY: KAMBRIA FISCHER

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OCEANA COASTAL KITCHEN Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa 3999 Mission Blvd San Diego, CA 92109 858.539.8635 www.catamaranresort.com

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SHAKE IT LIKE A POLAROID PICTURE Ò Polynesian dancers shake their hips while you dine on Kalua pig, and when the sun drops, the fire twirling and energy rise like a storm. The price of admission gets you lei’d (ahem), a mai tai, an all you can eat buffet and a performance by local performers, the Pride of Polynesia.

CRAFTY IN THE KITCHEN

Ò Take a seat and enjoy the splendor of all the delicious food moving from kitchen to table. Chef Riemer has created the type of kitchen that thrives on creativity, and he’s not afraid to show it. He loves taking on new chefs and listening to their ideas.

San Diego is not only a vacation destination that’s rich in history, but it's also diverse in culture and cuisine—and the residents of San Diego get the privilege of enjoying it every day. Some San Diegans spend their time going to the beach for a relaxing day or a surf session. Others are salivating as San Diego climbs into the realm of a foodie paradise. But who are we kidding?

Everyone enjoys these activities! The Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa with its renowned restaurant Oceana Coastal Kitchen embodies the lifestyle of San Diego and requires us to look no further.

When Oceana Coastal Kitchen opened its doors in 2015, Executive Chef Steven Riemer wanted visitors of the Catamaran to experience San Diego. Now he wants San Diegans to get a taste of it too.

“San Diego is more of a lifestyle than a city,” Riemer said. “The restaurant is made to embody this spirit.” Riemer is originally from Southern California, and he’s not only captured what it is to live in San Diego, but he’s made it better. Not long ago the food scene in the city left much to be desired, but it’s getting better—much better.

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Q&A WITH

Executive Chef Steven Riemer Q: What is your favorite dish on the happy hour menu, and what drink do you suggest pairing with it?

Steven Riemer: That’s like asking, ‘Who’s my favorite child?’ I love things about every dish on the menu. If I had to choose one, I’d say I love the Sea Bass Ceviche with mango and sesame. The acid from the mango works well with the fish, which has surprising flavors.

Q: What are your three favorite ingredients to cook with?

SR: Are smoke and fire ingredients? It’s more of a technique than an ingredient, but it changes the product so much. Cold smoking pork chops keeps them soft. Hot smoking salmon or trout makes a difference in texture. For my third ingredient, I’d say olive oil. It’s a finisher.

Q: After cooking at restaurants in beautiful resorts, such as The Lodge at Torrey Pines and The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, what makes the Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa on Mission Bay special?

SR: We’re literally on the bay and a block from the ocean. We’re in a city that everyone wants to come to. San Diego is very much a lifestyle. And even though we’re by the sea, San Diego is still very agricultural, so we have access to many fresh ingredients. San Diego is awesome!

Q: You became the Executive Chef of The Atoll at the Catamaran, which later became Oceana Coastal Kitchen. How has the menu evolved?

SR: There was a long lead up to the change

from The Atoll to Oceana Coastal Kitchen. My predecessor worked here for 25 years. When we opened Oceana Coastal Kitchen I designed the menu with ‘lightening’ and ‘flavoring’ in mind. For ‘lightening’ we wanted to add a lot of citrus and herb, and for ‘flavoring’ we wanted seafood with less cooking, and we put carpaccio on the menu.

Q: What’s a dish that belongs on every happy hour menu regardless of the restaurant’s theme?

SR: In this area, if you have the materials, I’d have to say flatbread or pizza. It’s almost like having a hamburger on the menu. It appeals everywhere. But you can have far more creativity making flatbread than a burger.

There’s a broader palate to work with. Whether it’s fast, casual or gourmet—it all works.

Q: Whose cooking do you enjoy the most?

SR: My wife. She’s a great cook. The best food always comes from someone that loves you.

Q: You’ve worked alongside farm-to-table chefs such as Chef Jeff Jackson, who is known for using sustainable ingredients. Tell us about your method for ingredient selection.

SR: It depends on the type of ingredient. I like to know which farms the ingredients are coming from because I know what each brings to the table. With seafood, I also need to know who it’s coming from. I usually call my friend over at Pacific Shellfish in Pacific Beach. Judd gives me the inside tip on what’s the best. I also like Santa Monica Seafood. Their sales reps bring things to your attention. I think it’s always best to work with what’s local.

MENU

“We’re literally on the bay, and a block from the ocean. We’re in a city that everyone wants to come to.”—Steven Riemer

Ò Oceana Seafood Tower

Ò Smoked Salmon Citrus Roll

Ò Charbroiled Local Mahi Mahi Ò Sesame White Seabass Ceviche Ò Diver Scallop Roll Ò Togarashi Seared Tuna Roll

C O C K TA I L S

Ò Mai Tai Ò Barrel Aged Cadillac Margarita Ò Blackberry Lavender Lemonade Ò French 75 LOCALE MAGAZINE 167

HOME/AWAY

You Need a Siesta Reasons to Book Your Next Trip to Mexico at the Sheraton Grand Los Cabos Hacienda del Mar WRITTEN BY: TERRY WILLS

The Sheraton Grand Los Cabos Hacienda del Mar is the premier property for luxurious accommodations and superior guest experience.

Occupying 28 acres of impeccably manicured coastal terrain overlooking the Sea of Cortez, this resort is part of the Grand category of Sheraton Hotels & Resorts’ highest designation of hotels. Situated between the charming seaside town of San Jose del Cabo and the lively resort town of Cabo San Lucas, the resort is ideal for family vacations, weddings and more.

The allure of the romantic locale offers the perfect setting for events of all sophistications and is one of the region’s most sought after locations for destination weddings. José “Pepe” Pineda, the area’s top wedding expert, specializes in personalized celebrations, from traditional Western themes to lavish multicultural weddings.

The property features over 18,000 square feet of event space, more than any other venue in Los Cabos.

Under the leadership of Executive Chef Manuel De Luca, the resort is the only property in Los Cabos to feature two Five Star Diamond restaurants, including the seaside dining destination, De Cortez Grill and Restaurant. The time-honored Pitahayas Restaurant, led by Chef Volker Romeike, features a Wine Spectator award-winning wine

TRANSPORTATION Plan airport transfers and transportation needs in advance with Ten Car Rentals. www.tencarrental.com.

FOODIE MAP

While you may not want to leave the resort, Los Cabos offers incredible dining options: • Flora Farms • Sunset Mona Lisa • Bar Esquina in The Bahia Hotel & SUR Beach House

GO ON AN EXCURSION

There are several costeffective packages offered including offsite activities organized

by Cabo Adventures like swimming with dolphins, zip lining and more.

¡CELEBRATE!

The resort hosts special events, such as the Los Cabos Cheese and Wine Festival. Visit their Facebook page to view a calendar of events.

cellar with more than 400 labels of old and new world vintages.

With more than 100 options to choose from, Bar La Suerte offers perhaps the largest selection of tequila in Los Cabos! Delfines Bar, the shaded swim-up pool bar at the Delfines Pool, is the perfect spot to relax and quench your thirst.

There are five spectacular pools for guests to enjoy and soak up the sun, including the Infinity Pool, which appears to melt into the Sea of Cortez, the De Cortez Pool, and the Pitahayas Pool.

The Delfines Pool, a favorite for families and groups, provides panoramic views of the resort’s golf course.

Cactus Spa offers a variety of massage techniques, luxurious skincare and beauty services, including a full-service salon, and specialized holistic treatments that combine traditional and contemporary techniques sure to leave you feeling replenished and pampered.

Two renowned golf courses are located at the Cabo del Sol golf resort. The Ocean Course, designed by famed golfer Jack Nicklaus, extends along the white, sandy beaches and includes two of the top 500 holes in the world, according to Golf Magazine. The Tom Weiskopfdesigned Desert Course features ocean views and indigenous flora and has been ranked number six on Golf Digest’s list of best golf in Mexico.

SHERATON GRAND LOS CABOS HACIENDA DEL MAR Corredor Turistico KM 10, Lote D Cabo Del Sol Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, 23450, Mexico 52.624.145.8000 www.sheratonhaciendadelmar.com

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FRESH Squeezed Fun SPEND YOUR VEGAS VACAY AT THE DOWNTOWN GRAND HOTEL & CASINO WRITTEN BY: ERIK HALE

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DOWNTOWN GRAND HOTEL & CASINO 206 N 3rd St Las Vegas, NV 89101 702.719.5100 www.downtowngrand.com

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Do you remember your first trip to Las Vegas?

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What stood out to you? For me, it was the bright lights and neon signs, 99 cent biscuits and gravy breakfasts, slot machines, and room prices that my parents could afford. My first trip to Las Vegas was with my parents nearly 30 years ago, when I was only 16. I remember my dad driving down Fremont Street while my brother and I fought for space on the backseat window to smash our faces against and stare up at the neon lights.

Las Vegas has changed so much since then. The light bulbs were replaced with LEDs, the giant neon signs were retired to a graveyard, the 99 cent breakfasts gave way to

$700 bottle service and for a clean room you might have to dip into your 401(k).

The Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino is the newest hotel in Downtown Las Vegas and everything about it reminds me of that first trip. The neon signs have been restored to their previous glory and now grace the skies of East Fremont Street nearby. There’s amazing comfort food options (from a celebrity chef) that won’t break the bank and clean, modern rooms that leave money in your checking account to spend on more important things—like slot machines.

LIFE IS GRAND

7 Events to Guarantee You’ll Have a Grand ‘Ol Time

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Biscuits & Jam Sessions Presented by Gibson

Monday nights at Freedom Beat from 10 p.m.-1 a.m., anyone can grab a guitar and hit the stage and grab $1 beers and $10 biscuit specials.

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Mob Museum

About 350,000 people per year visit this museum that chronicles the history of mob and gangster life in Las Vegas—a must stop when staying at the Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino.

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Life is Beautiful Music Festival

The festival returns to Downtown Las Vegas for the fourth time Sept. 22-24.

The festival covers 18 square blocks of the downtown area featuring headline acts across multiple stages, massive art installations, and enough food options to call this a ‘foodie festival.’ The Downtown Grand is walking distance from the festival's entrance.

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Albumpolooza

On select Saturdays, come listen to unique live concerts where the band plays iconic albums in sequence. Next up is the greatest hits from The Eagles on April 8 at 9 p.m.

Our 3 favorite drinks at Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino

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Fremont Street East

With a dozen cool new bars and restaurants bathed in the glow of resurrected neon signs, this five-minute walk will take you back 50 years.

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SCOTT COMMINGS

EXECUTIVE CHEF OF FREEDOM BEAT The restaurant is part roadhouse, part culinary road trip. They boast great live music, jam sessions, classic American food offerings, and a distinctive selection of craft beers and cocktails. Home to amazing biscuits, Chicken Fried Bacon, Pot Roast Sandwiches, delicious burgers, and, of course, the winner of “Hell’s Kitchen” Season 12, Chef Scott Commings.

Q: You were the winner of Hell’s Kitchen Season 12. Can you describe Gordon Ramsey in a few words?

Scott Commings: Gordon Ramsay is an incredible individual.

The poise and determination and sheer perfection he carries with him is truly inspirational. Phenomenal character in every aspect.

Q: You were praised as an artist on the show for your plating skills. How important is presentation to a meal in your opinion?

SC: We first eat with our eyes. It is first important to put out an incredible product, but a close second is putting out a product that looks above and beyond expectation.

Q: What menu items did you create for the Downtown Grand that best reflect your style?

SC: I truly put my heart and taste buds into everything I create, I am proud of how we cut zero corners in the way in which we construct each dish.

Q: What menu item have you created that you could easily eat every day for the rest of your life?

SC: I have to admit the chicken wings are a true pleasure. We put a lot of time into putting out a spectacular product; from the 24-hour brine to the slow smoke, and then the tang of the sauce; everything comes together fantastically! I can't help but say I would gladly eat them every day.

Fremont Street

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Georgia Mule from Freedom Beat:

Green Iguana from Citrus Grand Pool Deck:

Tito’s Vodka, Georgia Peach Syrup, Lime, Ginger Beer, Peach Slice $12

Kimo Sabe Mezcal Joven, Midori Melon Liqueur, Fresh Lime Sour, Fresh Honeydew Juice $10

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Salted Caramel Martini from Triple George Grill: RumChata, Caramel Vodka, Sea Salt $11

This might still be the best place to people watch in the entire city. In 1995, the sky was covered with a digital screen that you can now zip line across.

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Totally Radical

The music video for U2’s “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For” featuring Bono,The Edge, and the rest of the band walking the streets and talking to tourists was filmed in Downtown Las Vegas in 1987.

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CITRUS GRAND POOL DECK The Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino is home to Downtown Las Vegas’ premier and the coolest rooftop pool and party.

You won’t find your typical eardrum popping EDM here, rather the vibe is chill and energetic.

Imagine private cabanas, cocktails made with fresh ingredients growing right on the roof in garden boxes, and an all new menu created by Chef Scott Commings (the winner of “Hell’s Kitchen” from Season 12).

The infinity pool, set against the backdrop of classic Las Vegas, has sunshine all day as the pool is never shaded.

CITRUS SUMMER SERIES: ALWAYS FREE AND NEVER A COVER Thursday Night: R&B/Old School Friday Night: Dance Party Saturday Night: Rock Sunday: Latin Monday-Wednesday Nights: Night Swim

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Triple George Grill

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EASY STREET

YOU CAN EAT AND DRINK FOR AN ENTIRE DAY WITHOUT LEAVING 3RD STREET Two Martini Lunch Are you looking for a thick cut steak and a martini for lunch? Triple George Grill is routinely awarded as the Best Power Lunch restaurant in Las Vegas. The San Francisco inspired restaurant features classic steaks, seafood, chops, and salads and is a Downtown Las Vegas institution. With one of the few patio dining options in downtown, it might be the best place to dine alone and people watch.

Nothing Good Happens After 2 a.m., Thank Goodness If you’re craving a Mai Tai with four pieces of fruit and an umbrella you have come to the wrong place. If you enjoy raising your voice without being shushed, dancing on the bar, appreciate a mustached bartender that has no problem putting you in your place — then welcome to Hogs & Heifers.

Act Like You’ve Been Here Before How you start and end your nights in Vegas probably couldn’t look more different. You might hang your head out of a limo sunroof, dance with the security guard, or walk home carrying your shoes; but there are ways to start your night classy. Have your crew meet at Sidebar at 11 p.m. for some pre-party cocktails and take photos with your shoes on.

Reasons You May Never Have to Leave Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino

KEVIN GLASS

GENERAL MANAGER OF DOWNTOWN GRAND HOTEL & CASINO Q: Why should someone stay in Downtown versus the Strip?

Kevin Glass: Downtown has experienced a renaissance these past years and it has never been better. It’s more relaxed, fun, and experiential than the Strip, and it is a much better value and better gaming odds. From Fremont Street, to the Mob Museum, to great new restaurants and bars on Fremont Street East, a guest could come Downtown and never have to get in a cab. They can walk everywhere and be surrounded by classic architecture, great neon, and a real energy you don’t get on the Strip.

#DiveIn

Q: Why should they stay at the Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino?

KG: At the Downtown Grand we have created a full Las Vegas resort experience without the hassle of the Strip. From the Citrus Grand Pool Deck where guests can lounge and play day and night, to our 24/7 restaurant, Freedom Beat, to our great new rooms, the Downtown Grand is definitely one of the values in Las Vegas. Besides what’s in the hotel, we also have 3rd Street, a unique place to party, eat, and drink, featuring Triple George Grill, an amazing steak/chop/ seafood restaurant; the famed Hogs & Heifers (best biker bar in the country); Sidebar featuring classic, sophisticated cocktails and Pizza Rock, which is definitely the best pizza in town! Honestly, if you are staying at the Grand, you really don’t ever have to leave, but we encourage guests to set out and explore the entire Downtown Las Vegas area — it’s vibrant, fun, and original.

#Can'tLiveWithout

#FloatAway

Cheese Cures Hangovers You will thank us later for saving your life. When you wake up with a head full of wasps and your stomach is doing flip flops, stumble over to Pizza Rock and order the Detroit Red Top. A rectangular pizza cooked in a blue steel pan from Detroit with ingredients like Wisconsin brick cheese and butter toasted cheese corners, topped with garlic, two racing stripes of marinara, Pecorino Romano, and oregano.

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Instagram Photos That Will Make You Hate That You’re Not at Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino Right Now

Q: Why is Vegas so expensive now?

KG: It is really all about supply and demand and the demand for Las Vegas is high. That being said, the value is always better in Downtown Las Vegas. We are able to offer a complete Las Vegas resort experience at a much lower cost than the bigger Strip resorts. If you ask me, for the money and experience, Downtown Las Vegas is the place to be right now.

#OmNomNom

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Calories don’t count in Vegas.

Freedom Beat offers a $20 all you can eat brunch with Red, White & Blue Velvet Waffles, Fried Chicken Biscuits, and Cast Iron Baked Monkey Bread.

Add bottomless mimosas for $10 more, because why not?

Happy hour at Freedom Beat is not only from 2-5 p.m., but also from 2-5 a.m. Only in Las Vegas.

Boutiquefeeling, modern rooms that will make you want to stay in bed and order room service.

Live music every Friday and Saturday night from 11 p.m.-2 a.m. inside the Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino at The Red Velvet Lounge.

Take a Culinary Road Trip on the first Wednesday of each month with Chef Scott Commings. Chef Scott takes 25 guests on a dining road trip featuring the foods and vibes of a different state or city at only $35 for this intimate, chef hosted event.

Free admission and no cover to The Citrus Pool Deck. There are no buildings blocking your tan lines so you can sun your buns all day.

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SU CASA

Sunshine Point THIS $6 MILLION POINT LOMA HOME IS WHAT DREAMS ARE MADE OF

WRITTEN BY: TYLER HOLLAND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY: WILLIS ALLEN REAL ESTATE

For many, Southern California is the stuff dreams are made of and with year round perfect weather, seemingly endless beaches and limitless attractions, it’s easy to see why. After moving to the city of your dreams, the next step is finding that perfect home that brings together everything that makes the location so special, and as luck would have it, the hard work of finding such a property has already been done. With views of the San Diego Bay, easy access to the city’s famous entertainment and ample outdoor space, this beautiful home perfectly complements the city it overlooks.

WILLIS ALLEN REAL ESTATE 877.515.7443 | info@willisallen.com LISTING AGENTS: Deb and Rob Weir BRE# 00825339 & 01932791 877.515.7443 | info@willisallen.com

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632 San Gorgonio St Point Loma, CA 92106

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With views of the San Diego Bay, easy access to the city’s famous entertainment and ample outdoor space, this beautiful home perfectly complements the city it overlooks.

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When picking a place to call home, the importance of location cannot be denied, and neither can the beauty of this property's surroundings.

OUI, OUI

Keeping aesthetics in mind, the showers use French drains, which means the drains are hidden off to the side so they are not easily noticed. This creates a sleek, modern appearance reminiscent of luxury spas.

ECOFRIENDLY

This house was designed with ecofriendliness in mind.

In addition to the salt-water pool and hot tub, the lawn, as beautiful as it looks, is not real grass, which reduces water usage and maintenance.

The drains are also connected to the sprinkler system and electric window treatment is used throughout the property, which helps regulate the temperature and reduce glare.

L

ocated at 632 San Gorgonio in the La Playa neighborhood of picturesque Point Loma, this incredible two-story property is built to live like a single story and offers all the luxuries you would expect to find in a much larger estate with only a fraction of the upkeep—good news for those who wish to enjoy more time enjoying stunning views of the bay and less time maintaining the grounds. Situated on half an acre of land, the 6,557-square-foot property comes equipped with five bedrooms, five full baths, two half baths, three separate two-car garages, a hot tub, pool, wine cellar, theater, office/poker room, exercise room, guest house and putting green. The guest house makes up one of the total rooms featured, and even has its own living space, laundry facilities and a kitchen complete with a top of the line Le Cornue cooking range, which is also found in the main property. If cars are more your thing, each garage is ample size and strategically located, with one attached to the house, one near the putting green and one as you enter the house.

When picking a place to call home, the importance of location cannot be denied, and neither can the beauty of this property's surroundings. Almost every room has views of the bay and even the five TVs located throughout the home drop from the ceiling, leaving the views obstruction free when not in use. Because of the district’s elevation, nightfall means the city’s skyline comes to life right before your eyes. San Diego’s constant activity is exciting to watch, but when the desire to participate arises, the property’s location offers access to nightlife and attractions you can handle. Plus, if you need a change of scenery, the airport is nearby.

The views outside are important, there’s no doubt about that, but the views inside are not to be overlooked. This property was constructed by David Taylor using the unique old world architectural seal style utilizing stone, wood and glass that creates the feel of a time-tested estate despite being finished in 2009. From the baker’s pantry designed around a butcher block from Lyon, France, dating back to the 1800s, to the antique doors from Germany and

Brazilian sandstone, all finishes utilize the highest standards creating a beautiful space throughout. Incorporating the vast amount of antiques may have lengthened the building process, but the result is worth it. Did I mention the floors are heated?

Head through the front doors, and you’ll find a terrace leading to a lawn lined with fountains and pots reminiscent of what you would see at Versailles, all with the bay as its backdrop. The lower terrace has an entertaining area with a barbecue, pizza oven and ample seating making it the perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Living in America’s Finest City means being able to enjoy outdoor activities year-round.

This property takes this to heart. The pool and hot tub are situated in the back of the property with the hot tub slightly separate from the pool. They use salt water, which reduces maintenance and adds to the ecofriendliness of the property. Water features, a fireplace and an outside shower make the pool area all-inclusive. Whether you feel like lounging by the pool or enjoying the view, there is something to please all tastes.

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T H A N K YO U TO OUR PARTNERS

Andaz San Diego

OnTable Media

Bazaar Del Mundo | Casa De Bandini | Casa Sol y Mar

Pacific Standard Coastal Kitchen | Evolution Hospitality

BCBG Max Azria Group

Pendry San Diego

Blue Ocean Robata & Sushi Bar | Pokewan Love Boat Sushi Oceanside

Puesto

Board & Brew Brian’s 24 Carnitas’ Snack Shack Cenci Ventures | TS Restaurants CHERVONA Vodka Cinépolis Classic Club Clique Hospitality | Lionfish Clique Hospitality | Oxford Social Club Cody’s La Jolla Constellation Brands Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino Duck Dive | Miss B’s Coconut Club Eat.Drink.Sleep.

Evans Hotel Group

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Red O Taste of Mexico RMD Group Room & Board Sauvage Swimwear Schaffer Dental Excellence Señor Grubby’s Sheraton Carlsbad Social Syndicate Solterra Winery Solti SunSplash Swimwear The Acoustic Spot The Headquarters | Seaport Village The Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club & Bungalows The Patio Restaurant Group

Florent Restaurant & Lounge

The Shout House | The Garage Kitchen & Bar

Harrah’s Resort Southern California

The Westgate Hotel

JC Resorts

Two Bunch Palms

KOI Wellbeing

Verant Group | Alternative Strategies

L’Auberge Del Mar

Voltaire Beach House

Lumberyard Tavern

Wild Dove Boutique

Magic Bullet

William Grant & Sons

ODAP 2017 at L’Auberge Del Mar

Wood Group | El Prez / Truckstop / Avenue