Presidio Sentinel December 2013, Vol. 14, No. 11 by Michal Tuzinkiewicz

Volume 14, No. 11

Serving the Heart of San Diego | A Publication by Presidio Communications

December | 2013

Gina Champion-Cain,

Mission Hills resident, is pictured with Gordie at The Patio in Pacific Beach. See See page page 4 for article

Operation Cookie Bakers sends gifts to troops in Africa.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas photo time for our furry friends.

All Soulsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Saint Nicholas Home Tour mice collection.

WEB EDITION December 2013

The beloved Las Posadas returns to Old Town.

Serving the Heart of San Diego

Presidio Sentinel is a commentary-driven newspaper that provides coverage on local,regional and national issues that impact the lives of its readers and the community it serves. The serious issues are politics, government, redevelopment, the environment, conservation and safety. The quality of life issues include health, community activities, fundraisers, social events, religious issues and activities, theatre, arts, science and educational programs and services. We have over 35,000 monthly readers! Highly-educated, community-and arts-oriented. Both young and mature members of society. Most enjoy entertainment and travel, fine dining, local coffee houses, book and garden clubs, and participate in church, school and neighborhood activities. Our Mission: Making a difference, providing the facts, the truth, and a variety of opinions so that its readers are provided up-to-date researched information. The Presidio Sentinel strives to create dialogue, bringing topics to the forefront that need and deserve attention. Its writers, who share a variety of experiences and business backgrounds, write on topics that impact readers on a daily basis. Contact: General Inquiry: info@presidiosentinel.com Advertising: ads@presidiosentinel.com

Featured Stories

Janice Steinberg and “The Tin Horse”

City Council Extends Interim Height Ordinance

“Fumble?” Did You Say, by George Mitrovich

Featured Events

Stress Free Holiday

New Kid in Town

4th Annual SoNo Fest and Chili Cookoff

Historic Youth Ballet Presents “The Nutcracker”

Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” at the Birch North Park Theatre

“Inside Llewyn Davis” follows a young folk singer

“Fumble,” Mr. President?

The roll out of President Obama’s health care act was a major screw-up and when the president described it at a press conference as a “fumble,” he insulted our intelligence. There are people who hate Barack Obama; who hate his black skin; who hate he is president – and have hated him from the day he was elected. I am not one of those people. I love Barack Obama; love his story because it is such a great American story; love that he was elected in ’08 and reelected in ’12 – and love he is our first black president. But because I love the president does not mean I have taken leave of my critical faculties. I have not. Some readers may recall my critique of the president-elect when he announced in early January of ’09 his choice of economic advisors – Timothy Geithner, Larry Summers, and Ben Bernanke. I wrote they would continue the Reagan/Clinton/ Bush economic policies; policies responsible for the ever increasing wealth divide in America – a divide now so vast our democracy is at risk. However, the screw-up on health care began before Mr. Obama was sworn in as our 44th president. It happened when Tom Daschle, the president-elect‘s choice to be secretary of Health and Human

George Mitrovich is a San Diego civic leader. His email address, gmitro35@gmail.com

Mine Eyes Have Seen George Mitrovich

Services (HHS), withdrew his nomination because he failed to report that when he left the Senate to work in the private sector he had a car and driver. Really? Really. The mistake Senator Daschle made was telling Max Baucus, the faux Democrat from Montana, about his “problem” and not the White House. Why was that a mistake? because Max Baucus hates Tom Daschle’s guts and Baucus went immediately to the press with the former Senate leader’s “problem”, and that was that. But had Senator Daschle informed the White House about the issue, his nomination would have been saved. How do I know? Because someone of unimpeachable standing in the White House told me what happened, saying Senator Daschle had been an “idiot” for going to Baucus and not telling the president. This is relevant because had Tom Daschle been HHS secretary, rather than Kathleen Sebelius of Kansas, there would not have been a screwup on health care, because the health care bill we have would have been a different health care bill, one closer to Medicare – and therefore defensible. (You do know, right? that Medicare actually works, that its administrative costs are four percent vs. the 18-25 in the private sector;

proving government can get it right – sometimes.) That said, it was totally necessary for the president to step up and accept responsibility for what happened to the signature legislative piece of his presidency, because the buck stops at his desk in the Oval office (Mr. Truman’s sign is still there), but the idea he somehow micro-managed the roll out of the bill is just stupid; no, seriously stupid, coming from people who are inexcusably ignorant of the workings of government. The president of the United States is president. He is not God. He is not omniscient. He does not know the beginning and end of all things. But if you listen to Republicans, like John Boehner in the House or Mitch McConnell in the Senate, you would believe President Obama is totally responsible. Sorry he’s not. But in the assignment of blame truth telling seldom matters – as often appears the case with the gentleman from Ohio and the one from Kentucky. Having read an in-depth report on how the wheels came off on the rolling out of the health care wagon, the assignment of blame begins with decisions made in the White House by members of the president’s staff, and subsequently at HHS. (The Medicare employees, who were given

the responsibility of overseeing it, as determined by White House staff, had no previous experience in such a monumental task.) Someone should have realized that if you contract with 50 companies – that would be 50 private-sector companies – to create and administer the health care roll out and its Web site, the chances are 50 ways it could go wrong – and, it appears, 50 ways it did go wrong. So, do I blame the president or not? I do blame the president. He is in charge, and as Colin Powell said about another major government screw-up of far greater consequences, the war in Iraq, “If you break it you own it.” And President Obama owns the health care roll out story – and it is presently broken. But “presently” broken is the key word, because this is not the end of the story. In actual fact it is working in Kentucky and here at home, in California, and in due time if will work in other places; once Republican governors, as in a majority of Republican governors, get out of the way and let the millions of people without health insurance in their states sign up – because they need health insurance! Continued on page 9 www.PresidioSentinel.com

Local News

R e s t a u r a t e u r L a u n c h e s by Anne Sack Gina Champion-Cain has already established herself as a prominent business woman in San Diego. Now she takes careful aim at the restaurant industry, with the opening of her second restaurant, The Patio on Goldfinch. “I believe in ‘neighborhood centric’ and while I may have coined a new word here, every bit of what it sounds like, it means; as it’s where we want to create our restaurants and what I truly believe in. I want The Patio restaurants to be an extension of my home here in Mission Hills, where great conversation, innovative new food preparations and superior ambiance completely embrace everyone who visits,” said ChampionCain, owner, operator and CEO of The Patio on Goldfinch. The announcement of the new restaurant comes on the heels of her first restaurant, The Patio on Lamont Street,

New Eatery in Mission Hills

Continued from the cover page

and want to earn the right to become the finest seafood location in the city. For our Mission Hills, Bankers Hill, Point Loma, Hillcrest and Downtown residents and future customers, we believe The Patio on Goldfinch will begin the true transformation and revitalization of this outstanding neighborhood,” added Champion-Cain. According to Champion-Cain, the “urban-chic eclectic restaurant” will feature the warmth of craftsman fabricated wood, metal and brick interiors, using exclusively re-purposed woods for tables and chairs, dramatic use of tile, clean white-washed walls, orange tile roof, a glass entryway, signature fireplace and of course, a beautiful and lush landscaped pet-friendly patio. Champion-Cain gushes when she speaks of her design team: Bea Arrues, lead designer; Philip Cudaback,

The Patio on Lamont Street in Pacific Beach has an “urban-chic” feeling. and CEO of her own real-estate firm, American National Investments, and she started a new brand, Luv San Diego Surf, three years ago. Under the umbrella of Luv San Diego Surf are six pet-friendly vacation rentals located in Mission Beach, a women’s clothing boutique in Mission Beach, and the restaurants. When the real estate market went soft a few years ago, this University of Michigan grad knew it was time to refocus. “I seriously determined I needed to reinvent myself. When I first was informed the former Lamont Street

Grill, a true neighborhood eatery, was closing and the land was up for sale, I leaped at the chance to redevelop a true infill site with overall sustainability in mind, while also engaging the preservation for the Pacific Beach neighborhood. It has become a coveted local hangout ever since. To our great amazement, our diners also come in droves from La Jolla, Del Mar and Rancho Santa Fe. We know it is our ambiance, amazing food and petfriendly environment that keep them coming back.”

The Patio on Lamont Street has outdoor seating. The Mission Hills location will include an inviting indoor—outdoor venue. celebrating its one year anniversary. The new 4,000 sq. ft. Mission Hills location at 4020 Goldfinch will be larger and more spacious than Pacific Beach, with seating for over 200 guests. Together with new property owner Carleton Management, Champion-Cain estimates renovations on the existing building to be completed by early spring 2014. While the name remains the same, the environment will reflect the tradition and magnificence of Mission Hills. “It is truly our intention to adapt to the ethos of the neighborhood, while continually creating innovative dishes and food preparations with our own San Diego flair,” Champion-Cain offered. “I know our chefs want to stress seafood here

lead architect; David Michael, designer, fabricator, creator, artist; and Carlton Management, developer. “I am blessed to be working with Jeff Silberman, CEO of Carlton Management. His redevelopment brilliance has already created hundreds of apartments Downtown, the New School of Architecture and Design building and the recently developed Fifth Avenue dining and shopping block between University and Washington, in Hillcrest, to name just a few of his accomplishments.” Champion-Cain’s experience in real estate and development has certainly prepared her for her undertakings in the restaurant industry. She is president

The crab and tuna tower appeals to the eyes and palate. www.PresidioSentinel.com

A mouth-watering apple dessert may be on the menu at the Patio on Goldfinch.

Local News

Op e ration Cookie Bakers

Troops in Djibouti Africa are Recipients of Generosity

It was an amazing baking accomplishment. 400 dozen cookies were baked between November 19 and 20. The reason for this baking challenge was to provide holiday cheer to 400 troops at Lemonnier Navy Base, located in Djibouti, Africa. Marcy Van Stee of Mission Hills, whose husband is in command at Camp Lemonnier, came up with the idea of baking cookies and shared it with her book club friends. Van Stee said that her friend, Mary Johnson, ran with the idea and helped to enlist people from all over the county to participate in the “Operation Cookie Bakers” campaign. On Friday, November 22 several of Van Stee’s friends gathered to assemble the 400 dozen baked cookies into individual packets of one dozen with

each tied with a ribbon and sporting a customized sticker. Then they sorted the packages so that the correct amount was organized for each of the 16 Departments. Then they packed all of these into 23 boxes. When they arrived at the local UPS Store on Washington Street, John Burnham, proprietor, generously picked up the entire cost of the postage. Van Stee was overwhelmed with the response to her proposal of sending homemade baked goods to the troops. Soon 400 of the troops in Djibouti will be enjoying holiday treats from generous San Diegans. She is extremely grateful to everyone who generously warmed up their kitchens to share goodwill with so many deserving soldiers.

Left to right, Marcy Van Stee, Joan O’Conner and Mary Johnson deliver boxes of cookies to John Burnham at UPS.

A Poo r ly Executed Effort for

Health Care Insurance

by Patty Ducey-Brooks Over the past several months I’ve heard from numerous individuals and business owners about their current and future health insurance. A lot of people initially expressed support for the concept of “all people having the opportunity for health insurance coverage.” Unfortunately, we’re now really feeling the results of what was proposed as insurance coverage that would work for everyone. The outcome for a growing number of people is that ObamaCare wasn’t well thought out and was rushed in to place without a true understanding of the ramifications. The failed web sites are obvious signs of lack of experience and understanding of coordinating a huge effort, such as this. Most of us were told that we could keep our same plans and there wouldn’t be any financial or program changes. Now we’re learning this isn’t the case. I’ve recently heard from individuals who have had health insurance coverage and are now receiving cancellation notices, or hefty spikes in premiums. Some folks I spoke to weren’t willing to publish their names because they felt it might result in negative feedback from those in support of ObamaCare. However, I did hear from others who were willing to share their concerns. David Garmo, who receives coverage through his work, has a daughter who was recently diagnosed with cancer. He has just learned that

his wife and daughter’s coverage will be cancelled. He has another daughter who also had cancer. Had it not been for his insurance coverage, the out of pocket expense would be well over $1 million. Garmo says, “We’re not sure what we’re going to do.” Kathy Houser, CFO for Lansing Companies, says she is very concerned with the 72 percent renewal increases. Every employee at her company making more than $40,000 annually would be responsible for the increased costs, which is a loss to their income. She said most would elect not to get insurance. I’ve also heard from some of my neighbors who have small businesses who are saying that their profits are marginal. This added expense will prevent them from making any capital improvements, hiring new staff as well as doing business as usual. They are in a state of uncertainty. If you’re a small business owner every financial hic up is impactful. There’s no doubt in my mind, it’s time that our elected officials admit that it’s already broken. To deny and point fingers doesn’t fix the problem. I’ve already contacted some of our elected officials and recently spoke to Carl DeMaio, who is running for Congress. He was at the forefront to propose bipartisan legislation to allow San Diegans to keep their existing health care coverage. It’s at least a start. I plan to continue these discussions and learn more about what “we” can do to prevent a health insurance disaster.

“Making Life’s Little Problems Disappear”

Use QR Reader App to View Product Video For more information, visit www.liftoffinc.com or Call 1-800-346-1633.

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The holidays are here, each year a little earlier, each year a little more frantic. The holiday music started hitting the stores in early November and I’ve already seen houses decorated in my neighborhood. But this year frantic hits a new high (or low). It’s bad enough that Black Friday has become de rigueur, but this year otherwise normal, calm people had the opportunity to unbuckle their tight belts, grab their charge cards and run as fast as they could the minute the last piece of pumpkin pie was devoured on Thanksgiving Day. Yes it’s really true, many stores were open on Thanksgiving this year…ALL… DAY…THANKSGIVING. Maybe I got the meaning of the word Thanksgiving wrong all this time. Maybe the word when broken up means “thanks for giving us yet another day to shop.” It looks like we have been given another day of danger. It used to be that the act of walking down a street in a gang infested neighborhood alone in the pitch dark, with your purse swinging back and forth was considered dangerous. Now we

must add another act to our repertoire of dangerous actions – the act of shopping! We have all seen how dangerous it is to shop on Black Friday. We have seen otherwise reasonable grown adults elbowing their way to the desired rack or table, tackling each other for sale items, ripping clothing from an opponent’s hands, and exhibiting other bizarre behavior all to get that perfect gift. Children are watching their parents doing things that kids would be punished for in a heartbeat. It’s been pretty ridiculous and it seems to be getting worse. I thought with so many online shoppers that this madness would stop. Instead the stores are fighting online shopping by the brilliance of adding more days and hours including Thanksgiving itself. So what is that perfect gift? Is it the video game marked M for mature that your 9 year old boy is badgering you for? Is it that expensive $200 playhouse that your 2 year old pointed to in an ad? How about the much too skimpy mini skirt that your 13 year old daughter “must have” because her friends’ mothers let their daughters wear them? That toy gun looks way too real, but little Billy wants it so bad. The music on that rapper’s CD

Patty Ducey-Brooks

has very graphic language, but all your son’s friends have a copy on their iPods. The newest cell phone works great for you, but can your elderly mom or dad master it? Do pets really need clothing? And just how many Lego sets can one child own? I’m dealing with this the best I can. My plan is this. I told everyone that I believe that holiday gifts should just be for the kids. That will cut things down considerably. I finished buying the gifts for one kid months ago. I just ordered another child’s gifts online. I’ve also ordered tee shirts online for all of them. I found a site that has everything you can imagine in tee shirts. One gets his Walking Dead shirt; another will love her Dr. Who tee. There’s a Diary of a Wimpy Kid ready to go to the one who reads that series and a Dora shirt for the little Dora lover. Everything is done except those special gifts for my teenage grandkids. Now there is a challenge. Teenagers are tough. But wait, the challenge has been met. The purchase has been made and I can’t lose. Today I am giving thanks to that special person who first came up with the perfect gift for teenagers... gift cards… and now I’m done!

Publisher

Ilene Hubbs Associate Editor

Michal A. Tuzinkiewicz Creative Director

Phyllis E. Zawacki Graphic Designer

Contributing Writers Concetta Anitico Blake Beckcom Rick Brooks Melody Brown Ian Campbell Richard Cone Cath DeStefano Barry Hager Ilene Hubbs David Kamatoy Philip C. Lee Alice Lowe Aubree Lynn

Between the Lines: by Alice Lowe

Janice Steinberg and “The Tin Horse”

It was a lovely interlude on a recent Sunday afternoon, sipping wine and nibbling cheese among a group of book lovers at Mission Hills Books & Collectibles for a reading and discussion with another of our local literary treasures, Janice Steinberg. You may have heard the name. Steinberg was a long-time awardwinning arts journalist for the UT; she also taught novel writing at UCSD and dance criticism at SDSU. In the ‘90s, Steinberg wrote five mystery novels featuring a feminist sleuth, fictional San Diego public radio reporter Margo Simon. Her new novel, “The Tin Horse,” was published in January by Random House after many years of research and writing (and re-writing and editing). This multi-generational family saga is a departure from the mystery genre, yet it was inspired by it. A fan of the noir fiction of Raymond Chandler and Dashiell Hammett, Steinberg tells of reading a passage in “The Big Sleep” in which Philip Marlowe has an exchange with a woman in a Los Angeles bookstore whom he encounters reading a law book. Janice was fascinated with this character, who appears only in the one scene. A woman, a Jewish woman as Chandler notes, reading law books in the ‘30s seemed enough out of the ordinary to stir Steinberg’s curiosity about such a person. The passage in “The Big Sleep” becomes the epigraph, and that nameless www.PresidioSentinel.com

woman is now Elaine Greenstein, the protagonist of “The Tin Horse.” She’s 85, retired from a successful law career when the book opens. Going through some old papers, she comes across information about the disappearance of her twin sister when they were teenagers. The book alternates between Elaine’s childhood in 1920s and ‘30s Boyle Heights, then a predominantly Jewish immigrant neighborhood in L.A., and her present-day quest to uncover the family mystery. Woven throughout these two narratives are contemplations on family ties and the stories that solidify our roots and help us develop our identities. Steinberg’s extensive research included frequent visits to Boyle Heights, where she talked to residents and listening to oral histories of people who grew up there. She says she had to “imagine herself into twinship” to be able to convey that key relationship in Elaine’s life. She didn’t plot the novel in advance as she did with her earlier mysteries; rather she conceived her story a chapter at a time. Asked why she has Elaine in her 80s instead of, say, her 60s, Steinberg —who has written elsewhere about images of aging women—emphasizes that Elaine had a demanding professional life and was too busy when she was younger to go off in search of the family’s lost sheep. She’s still physically and mentally able—what better time to take on a new challenge?! “The Tin Horse” has received excellent reviews. The San Francisco Book Review said that its elements “work together seamlessly to create

George Mitrovich David Rottenberg Anne Sack Sabine Starr Barbara Strona Charlotte Tenney Laura Walcher The Presidio Sentinel is a monthly publication that is distributed by the first of each month to households in Mission Hills, Bankers Hill and Point Loma, with additional drop off points in Mission Hills, Bankers Hill, Point Loma, Old Town, Little Italy, Downtown, Hillcrest, Kensington, University Heights, Mission Valley and Linda Vista.

Steinberg was a long-time award-winning arts journalist for the UT. Photo courtesy of Monique Feil of Mission Hills.

a heart wrenching family drama, an enlightening perspective on historical events, and a story of an immigrant generation’s American experience.” In April San Diego Magazine named it one of five books to read that month. Starting with a launch party at Warwick’s in January, Steinberg and “The Tin Horse” have made appearances at book clubs, book stores, and conferences around the country. Events scheduled through next spring include the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center in February and the Pasadena Festival of Woman Authors in March. Thanks to Steve Schultz at Mission Hills Books & Collectibles for bringing Steinberg to the neighborhood—I’ll be looking forward to more readings there.

The publisher assumes no responsibility for any unsolicited materials. All manuscripts, photographs and artwork become the possession of The Presidio Sentinel. All rights are reserved. Reproduction of this publication in whole or in part without express written consent of the publisher is prohibited. Subscription rate is $25 per year. Send checks, all letters, editorial, press releases and calendar of events to the following.

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Pet

Animal News

Holiday Photos Pets are often considered an integral part of the family. In fact, 80 percent of pet parents see their four-legged buddy as a part of their family, and many of them will feature their pet on the holiday cards they send out to family and friends this year.

Not to be combined with any other offer. Not good for boarding, bathing, grooming, pet food and prescription and non-prescription drugs. Expires 12-31-2013

From noon to 4 p.m., Saturday, December 7 and 14, all Petco stores in San Diego will host a “Photos with Santa” event, where pets can dress up and take their holiday photos with Santa himself. All proceeds from this event will benefit local animal shelters in need.

We’ve got just about everything on your wish list for a new doggie family member. Nelson is a 4-year old, American pit bull, terrier mix. He is looking for a loving home. He’s a wonderful companion and a great exercise buddy. Nelson is also a smarty pants and knows commands. He’s certain to brighten each day with his sweet goofiness and zeal for life. Nelson is enthusiastic and full of energy, but also known for his supreme sweetness and snuggling skills. He’s all-around awesome. However, he can get a little restless when left all alone. He loves companionship. Nelson will do best in a home with children 16-years old and older who are experienced dog owners. He prefers to be your only doggie. Training classes would be great for Nelson. Nelson’s adoption fee includes my spay/neuter, current vaccinations, permanent microchip identification, a certificate for a free veterinary exam, a gift from Hill’s Science Diet, a license if residing in Oceanside or Vista, and limited veterinary medical coverage from VCA Hospitals up to $250. Nelson is currently located at the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA, located at 5500 Gaines Street. For more information, call (619) 299-7012 or visit www.sdhumane.org. Rudy is a two-year old, miniature pinscher with lots of fun-loving energy and charisma. He loves to play. He is also a great student and love to learn new things and new tricks. Rudy is a bit shy with new faces and places, yet he warms up once familiar with the environment. While he doesn’t always like to be held, he does love pets and interaction, playing games and lounging on the couch with his special companion. He has a big heart and can’t wait to share his love with a special family of his own. Because Rudy is very playful with high energy, he will do best in a home with older, dog savvy children. He would also do well with another dog that is as active; however, no cats please. Rudy’s adoption fee includes spay/neuter, current vaccinations, permanent microchip identification, a certificate for a free veterinary exam, a gift from Hill’s Science Diet, a license if residing in Oceanside or Vista, and limited veterinary medical coverage from VCA Hospitals up to $250. Rudy is currently available for adoption at San Luis Rey/North Campus of the San Diego Humane Society, located at 2905 San Luis Rey Road in Oceanside. For information, call (760) 757-4357 or visit www.sdhumane.org.

For more information on Nelson, call 619.299.7012 For more information on Rudy, call 760.757.4357

SPCA www.PresidioSentinel.com

8 The

Lifestyle

Unconscious Eaters Playbook

by Blake Beckcom

The kick off to the holiday season is in full swing. The Halloween candy is gone, and now we face the daunting task of managing weight gain avoidance from what we did at Thanksgiving and what we are about to do at Christmas. The time of year between Halloween and New Year’s is prime time for weight gain, without realizing it. Mindless eating is one of the biggest penalties committed during this time of year. To keep yourself moving toward the goal line of living a healthy and fit lifestyle, incorporate the following eating strategies into your nutrition playbook. Follow a Game Plan

As you run routes throughout your day, it is easy to fumble your healthy eating habits by eating something here or there without realizing how many total calories you are consuming. When you are super busy your first play from scrimmage, when you’re hungry and tired, is to start putting whatever is around the office or pantry into your mouth. The way you avoid getting yourself into this pattern of unconscious eating is to set up a game plan that is easy to execute every day of every week. The first play of the game is to figure out how many total calories you need to consume on a daily basis, to either maintain or lose weight. Divide your total number of calories into three meals and one or two small snacks. A

sample game plan to get you started on the road to victory includes: Breakfast yogurt and oatmeal Snack your favorite fruits Lunch a mix of whole grains, lean proteins and the greenest vegetables possible Snack high protein-based snack like almonds Healthy Dinner whole grains, lean proteins, heart healthy fats and vegetables

There is no quick fix. Don’t get caught up in fad diets. Keep what you eat as simple as possible.

Review the Game Film

It’s important to practice healthy eating habits on a regular basis, but especially during this time of year. The key is to keep it as simple as possible. The best way to pinpoint your eating habits and identify where you might be committing penalties is to create a food journal. Over the course of a week, write down all of the calories you consume (food and beverages) to get a good picture of what types of foods you typically eat and how many meals/snacks you consume on a daily basis. You may be surprised at what you learn. We tend to think we eat better than we actually do. Once you review the game film, you’ll be able to diagnose additional plays for your next opponent.

Score the Winning Touchdown Portion

control

and

eating

moderation are star players when it comes to high scores in mindless eating avoidance. To make sure you are eating proper portions use small storage containers and prepare one serving size of your snack or meal items for each one. This portioning strategy eliminates the need to worry about eating too much because when you’ve finished the food in your container you know that you just consumed one serving size. Depending on your schedule, you can prepare and portion out your meals for the week during the weekend or do it on a daily basis during the evening or morning. Just figure out what works for you and stick with it. Proper planning prevents poor performance.

Game Management

When it comes to managing the tendency of overeating at holiday parties and dinners don’t be afraid to bring your healthy eating game plan with you. Instead of sampling a little of everything on the buffet table or serving platters, look through the menu, pick out the healthy options, and build your own meal based on the healthy foods that are available. It also is a good idea to eat something healthy and light prior to the party to curb your appetite and reduce the risk of eating everything in sight at the event. Eating a healthy meal before you go to a party is the best defense against unconscious eating.

Blake & Gwen Beckcom. score the game winning touchdown beginning 2014 as fit as possible keeping New Year’s Resolutions to lose weight on the sidelines.

By keeping your head in the game, you are setting yourself in motion to

Fitness Together Mission Hills offers personal training with qualified professionals by regular appointment in private suites. Exercise and nutritional programs are custom designed to fit your needs and abilities. Call 619.794.0014 for more information or to schedule a free fitness diagnostic and private training session. See what others are saying about us on Yelp and San Diego City Search.

Nothing can replace that feeling of loving our own life, no matter what our circumstances. The consumer industry tries to make us believe that purchasing items is better than going through our days with a chuckle in our throat, fulfillment in our heart and the knowledge that the life we live is our own and forever unique. The knowledge that we make it work every day, in our own unique way, with our own decision powers and according to our own values,

is priceless and does not require a single item from any store. I highly recommend you enjoy your very own life. Sometimes it helps to get assistance from professionals to figure all this out and to shed the general conditioning we all received from the various environments that surround us. At the end, we are primarily humans who feel and love and live. I am wishing you a heartfelt holiday season. Please send comments to: sabine. starr@yahoo.com.

A Pilgrimage to Your Own Life by Mrs. Freud

For the third time I was able to experience the healing and clarifying power of walking daily over the course of several weeks on one of the ancient routes of the Camino de Santiago in Spain. All the details and stresses of modern life fall away. What emerged is a strong connection to my priorities, values and desires. Returning to the cluttered schedule and life back home is harder than walking the 500 miles. The main question after such an amazing experience is, “how do I continue the serenity and focus and not fall back into a hectic life?” While going on an extended trip and walking several hours daily is not everybody´s desire or option, there are still things that can be done to form a strong connection to your own heart´s desires. Focusing on what matters ensures that meaningless items won´t distract us. Too much time is regularly spent on non-fulfilling habits (channel surfing anyone?). In my private coaching practice I notice regularly that it is not even clear what matters to the person I www.PresidioSentinel.com

am listening to. Getting clarity is a first important step which will determine the direction and quality of life. A non-committal approach to our own values and goals is very dissatisfactory on the long run. Often, a fear of failing is blocking any clear direction or commitment. The saying is so true that “only the one who never tries will never fail.” We can and need to learn to accept failure as necessary ingredient to living a fulfilling life. It does take courage to stand behind what matters to us. Once we make the decision to do it so many other things we spend time and resources on will fall away. It is like a big de-cluttering of our whole life. It can affect our possessions, the things we say “yes” to, the friends we have and cherish, the projects we take on at work (or not volunteer for anymore), the clarity of our communication with others, and many other things. It will be very different and unique to each one of us, but it will always be liberating and invigorating. It gives us that bounce in our step and happiness when approaching each day from the moment we wake up.

Author Sabine Starr is a psychologist licensed in Vienna, Austria, currently living and working in Mission Hills. She has written numerous articles for professional psychology journals. For further information, visit www.starrcoaching.com and follow her blog at www.HealthwithTaste.blogspot.com.

Financial Fraud is on the Rise by Rick Brooks Recently, financial companies have seen a marked increase in the incidence and sophistication of financial fraud, especially through email. Charles Schwab has informed us that industrywide attempts at financial fraud have increased more than ten-fold over the past five years from 30,000 per year to more than 300,000. At a recent meeting with other financial advisors, half of those in the room said they had seen at least one fraudulent attempt to access their clients’ accounts. By now, most of us have heard some kind of story about a friend’s email being hacked. My favorite was a friend who was sitting next to his wife checking email, and received an email from her address saying she was stuck in London on an emergency trip. He asked her how the trip was going, receiving a blank and confused stare in return. The point of these scams was to start an email conversation with the victim’s friends who would send money to “help.” While I still see these kinds of things once in a while, what has apparently become more common is for fraudsters to hack into email accounts and then monitor them for a while. They try to gain a sense of how their victim writes and who they correspond with. They could learn about your close friends, family members and advisors. They would see bank and brokerage account notices, so they would know which financial institutions you use, or see purchase confirmations for online shopping. Recently, we received an email from a client’s email address asking about a wire transfer, and “to advice [sic] her of her account balances.” Knowing our client, this was pretty easy to spot as forgery and we called the client to discuss it, but it is a sample of the kinds of things that are becoming more common. As scary as this sounds, there are two points that I want you to remember: People who bank online are more likely to discover financial fraud early, and Electronic delivery of statements is still considered safer than paper delivery because it is so easy to lift paper statements out of most mailboxes.

But you do need to take precautions. Keep your AntiVirus and Malware software up to date. Viruses are EVERYWHERE, and children and teenagers seem to be especially adept at finding them as they surf the web looking for new, free tools for their electronic gear or homework. Schedule scans of your computers often and keep your virus definitions up to date. American Banker recently listed key-logging malware (which records your keystrokes and send them to hackers) as one of the greatest risks to banks and their customers. These kinds of malware (bad software) will record the things you type, like “www.bofa.comUserIDPassword.” Regularly scanning for viruses will greatly reduce this kind of risk, but use a recognized antivirus program, not a free online utility. Make sure your passwords are strong. Your spouse’s initials and birth year simply aren’t good enough. A strong password should combine at least three of four elements: upper case letters, lower case letters, numbers and symbols (@, #, $, %, etc). In addition, you can combine these with a simple phrase, so that “easy to remember” becomes “EaSy_2_ReMeMbEr.” I wrote an article on this topic for the June 2012 Sentinel, so please feel free to email me for a copy of that article, or check the archives at www. presidiosentinel.com. When you are banking online, don’t surf to other websites. When you have multiple browser windows open, some websites can run scripts that can access your other browser windows. This is called “cross-site scripting”. This is a relatively rare risk, but if your bank’s software is vulnerable to this kind of attack, when you have a banking session open in one window, a hacker could potentially access your bank accounts that way. It’s easy enough to prevent by doing your banking with no other browser windows open and closing your browser when you’re done. If you have any concerns about your financial security online, talk to your bank or financial advisors about the security of their online tools.

Business News

“Fumble?”

Continued from page 3

But my closing point is this: I learned a long time ago – you do not defend the indefensible. Someone please tell the president. THE IRAN AGREEMENT The U.S. France, England, and a few other global players, have reached an agreement with Iran to slow down its nuclear bomb building capabilities. A rational person might think, “It’s about time.” But not Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s prime minister, who denounced the agreement and allowed that Israel might have to act alone and take out Iran’s nuclear plants. I consider Netanyahu a dangerous person, who leads an even more dangerous party, the Likud; whose membership comprises some of the most reactionary and hard right fundamentalist forces in the Jewish state, I expect Israel to act in its own self-interest, but how it acts is a

major dispute within Israel; which U.S. media, fundamentally terrified of being accused of anti-Semitism, largely ignores. But even a cursory reading of Israeli newspapers documents the deep divide within the country over Likud Party policies. That debate is healthy, but it needs to be joined in other places, not just Israel – as we all have a stake in what happens to Israel and the Middle East. Which is why I am excited that Isaac Herzog is the new leader of the Labor Party in Israel. He will now lead the party of Yigal Yallon, Golda Meier, Yitzhak Rabin, and Simon Peres. That party and that history is the once I embrace, not Netanyahu and Likud. George Mitrovich is a San Diego civic leader. He may be reached at, gmitro35@gmail.com.

TThis column is prepared by Rick Brooks, CFA, CFP®. Brooks is Vice President for Investment Management with Blankinship & Foster, LLC, a wealth advisory firm specializing in comprehensive financial planning and investment management. Rick can be reached at 858.755.5166, or by email at brooks@bfadvisers.com. Rick and his family live in Mission Hills.

Put Your Name In Front of 35,000 Potential Customers! For more information, call 619.296.8731

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Local News

Stress Free

Holiday

by Dove Kirby

The day after I took down my Halloween decorations, I heard the first Christmas music of the season. It was coming from a dainty little music box sitting within a display at Nordstrom. Minutes later, I realized that I was still standing there staring at it, trancelike, but the tinkling sound had transformed into a raging swarm of thoughts swirling in my head—the cards, the gifts, the dinners, the parties, the cookie baking, the travel, the decorations, the obligations, the stress… the holidays were rushing at me like a freight train full of mistletoe. I snapped out of it and moved on, but that feeling—something akin to standing atop an extraordinarily high precipice and looking down—stayed with me for the rest of the day. It was only November, and the pressure of “the holiday season” had already begun. That night, as I lay in bed still swimming in the lists of things I had to accomplish in the coming weeks, I felt a mad desire to renounce the entire thing and run off to a tropical island for the next two months. But slowly, a more realistic idea began to form: What if I cut out anything that isn’t bringing genuine enjoyment to myself or my family?

It can be hard to differentiate between the things we do that truly fulfill us and the things that we just feel we “should” do. I started asking myself: which items on the list were working toward the purpose of spreading comfort and joy, and which ones were just because I felt I was supposed to do them? As I began to weed out the “shoulds,” I noticed my anxiety level dropping already. Gifts for loved ones are a no-brainer; they bring joy to both the giver and the recipient. But for extended family that I rarely see, a card will suffice. Having friends over for nights of eggnog and laughter is what it’s all about. But that dinner party that a second cousin’s fiancée is throwing? I’ve decided to pass (being sure to thank them for the kind invitation). Having a tree is a given. But… all new ornaments this year? Not going to happen, and that’s okay! My sanity is more important than attending every single gathering, or making every little thing look Martha Stewart worthy. The following morning, I put my thoughts to paper. I wrote out only the items that made the cut; naming my list Things I Want to Do for the Holidays, rather than what I had to do. What was left over after the culling was still a fairly long list, but there were far less items on the list than days I had left to do them. I felt a wash of relief and formulated a plan. Each day I would

Trust Abused by Ginny Ollis retired 33-year realtor There are some people we automatically think we can trust: mom, teacher and our spouse, certain friends, Morgan Freeman, to name a few. And when that trust is broken, it is not only tragic, but can take a while to discover, during which we are apt to dig ourselves a hole. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) is one of those trustworthy icons. They created a code of ethics which makes it possible for clients to lay bare their personal lives and 98 percent of the time be well-shepherded. They espoused Multiple Listing arrangements to expand the reach of sellers and buyers, allowing them to choose an agent of preference and still be available to all other properties and prospects. They have been the educational and resource foundation of realtors across the nation. They have lobbied for and supported relentlessly for private property rights and tax and legislative policies that support this. And they gave us, agents and the public, the most reliable and inclusive real estate website on the internet. Last year, NAR sold 95 percent of www.Realtor.com to a private company. To me, this means that we do not have the substance of an organization committed to one of the basic underpinnings of our country at your service. How do I www.PresidioSentinel.com

know? Realtor.com is changing. Until now, it was the only site we could trust to live by the Code, not the market advantage. At this moment they are testing a product sometimes used in various forms by other real estate websites, that will provide the public with an agentchoosing-system which searches sales data to promote the agents with the highest production. “Agent Match” is a very poor decision and policy. It suggests that numbers dictate the value of realtors, and is absolutely contrary to the best interests of the public and the profession. Numbers can be duplicated by technical systems. Professional excellence takes the human gifts of commitment, education, integrity of holding the client’s interest in the highest position, and often the sacrifice of their own time and best interests which no technology will ever provide. It also demeans the value of the agent who does not live 7/24/365 at his job, because he is also building a family, a community, and so on. And it elevates the numbers above the personal relationships that fuel true client inter-responsibility. Quantity does not necessarily quash quality, but it will never replace it. Taking your most trusted resource away leaves you with one really reliable choice. Find someone you know you can trust, and make them one of your life counselors, don’t expect the internet to do it for you.

attempt to accomplish just one item, which I would then cross off the list (arguably one of the most gratifying feelings ever). For every holidayrelated job I got done, I would do something for myself: such as a walk with my dog around the neighborhood, a soak in the tub, a workout in the park, or coffee with friends. These pursuits, whatever activities we enjoy, are crucial to maintaining our morale and keeping our stress at the low end of the spectrum. They recharge our batteries, rejuvenate us, give us the energy to carry on without getting overwhelmed. I have already crossed off three items on my list. I’m well on my way to a joyful, stress-free (or at least, less stressful) holiday season. I plan to enjoy myself and take breaks along the way. I’m sure my family will enjoy me more if I’m not hyperventilating because I have too much to do and not enough time to do it. So as the holidays approach, breathe. Try making a list of the things that will truly fulfill you, and chuck the “shoulds.” Use any extra time to do things you really enjoy doing. Create your own holiday season, made up of the things that bring you joy. That joy will spread to everyone around you, and those are the moments that create the happiest Christmas memories.

Fres h Ideas For H oliday Enter taining maureen

If you fancy yourself an entertainer, then November is right antoinette about the time when you stare into the face of annual holiday party planning, and wonder, “How can I make this year’s event special for my guests?” For holiday entertaining with a twist, Previews® Inside Out tapped the creative mind of Jes Gordon, an award-winning event producer, reality TV personality, and author. Here is her no-frills party advice, mixed with a few personal touches that will help take your holiday parties from dull to dazzling. On Making a Party Unforgettable—If a party evokes a positive emotional response from your guests, then you rocked it! Not only does the party have to look beautiful, but it needs to feel beautiful as well. Anyone can throw money at an event, but it needs to express who the host is somehow—so his or her guests feel at home and honored that they were invited. You don’t need to show off in order to have a great party. Just be yourself, and don’t sweat the small stuff! Remember, if something small doesn’t happen (like a flower arrangement), your guests didn’t know it was supposed to be there in the first place. On the Latest Trends—With Etsy.com, Pinterest and reality TV, many folks are doing DIY projects. Great recipes are readily available to us from celebrity chefs. Designers are showing us their secrets. You can literally Google how to make a holiday centerpiece. I am not saying it will come out perfectly, but your guests will notice that you were willing to try! On Holiday Party “Must—Haves”—Something interactive. A fun digital photo booth is great anywhere. They are easily rentable, come with fun and funky props, and are social media friendly. Nostalgia is fun. Play music that folks haven’t heard in a while (but still love) and serve food we aren’t allowed to eat anymore. Entertaining happens when we get to do what we don’t do on a daily basis. On Hosting a Holiday Party While Your Home is for Sale—Why not? There is no better way to show off how lovely your home can be during the holiday season!

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Lifestyle

Deco r ating With Flowers, Succulents and Miscellaneous Finds by Barb Strona In October several Garden Club members attended the San Diego Floral Association’s meeting which featured Tony Alvarez who gave us ideas for decorating with flowers, succulents, and miscellaneous items found outdoors. Alvarez had myriad half-started arrangements, and before beginning his talk he continued assembling bits and pieces. Probably the best information I garnered from Alvarez’s talk was about new products. . . or new to me. The most exciting is floral glue. It is made by Oasis and does not harm blossoms or foliage. I glued phalaenopsis blossoms to flax several weeks ago; they all look fine! Another product I was unaware of is decorative aluminum wire which comes in at least 60 colors and various shapes including flat ribbons and various diameters of wire. Of course it helps to have Alvarez’s talent for shaping the wire. He uses it as both an armature for an arrangement or as a means of directing one’s eye. Crimping 26 gauge wire makes it sparkle. Alvarez’s arrangements may incorporate anything that catches his eye. Last spring’s hydrangeas remained hydrated on his bushes so he picked them, pulled them apart, and

used them as a base to cover his wet floral foam. I discovered they also hide kenzans or pin frogs as well, and they maintain enough of their original color to use with other flowers. Alvarez had one incredible arrangement which began with left-over green hydrangea blossoms encircling a tower of chartreuse gladiola. He used binding wire to hold the stems tightly together. Later he augmented this arrangement with bells of Ireland and eventually more flowers including some red ones. Gold aluminum ribbon completed the design although I preferred it with just the hydrangeas and glads. Using heavy red aluminum wire, Alvarez created a base for a wrist corsage. Gluing various succulents and bits of bells of Ireland to each other and to the wire, he created a charming corsage. Another clever way to create a lasting arrangement is with potted plants such as phaleanopsis which do not require soil. Clean the moss from the roots and either replace it with proper orchid mix (bark, perlite, and perhaps charcoal) or with nothing in its pots. If you are planning to use floral foam, make holes in the Oasis for each pot. Be sure your orchids’ pots have no openings and that the sides are tall enough not to take on any water. Then make your arrangement. If you want one that will last months

HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON Lots of Peace and Joy, Love, and Good Health To All!

Barbara Strona (619) 203-1200 Barbstrona@aol.com www.strona.com BRE # 00872337

with little care, add various succulents to your creation. The orchids will give height, and the succulents can be used as a cover for the oasis or as other focal points in the design. Consider hanging a branch over the container’s edge (Alvarez used rhypsalis, a type of epiphytic cacti). Alvarez gave us a few miscellaneous pointers as well. Always strip off all leaves below the water line. The little packets of plant food and water purification that come with pre-packaged flowers should be in the water. Change the water frequently. Group plants together the way they grow in nature. Use light and dark colors to define of space. If you use a pumpkin as a container or as a decoration, wipe the interior well with lemon juice after you have removed the seeds and strings. This prevents it from collapsing with age. Succulents can grow in sphagnum moss or even oasis. Tony Alvarez’s arrangements may incorporate No matter how many anything that catches his eye. floral designers I see, I always learn new things. Alvarez taught berry-covered branches made a base me a great deal and subsequently I for the creation while a few branches with dried rose hips helped to create spend a bit of money on new toys. Last month our own Frankie her horizontal line. The length of the Hartwell, famous for her arrangements line should be in proportion to the table. for weddings and events, made holiday Then she began adding a variety of red arrangements. She says centerpieces flowers: deep red roses whose petals she should be no taller than the top of your peeled back exposing a darker red stripe vertically extended hand when your on the inside of each petal, red cock’s elbow is resting on the table top unless it comb, red anemones, more red berries is a tall, very skinny arrangement which and a chartreuse colored flower related to won’t hinder conversation. Hartwell the carnation. To add interest, she added had two arrangements, one finished and a few white roses. Hartwell reminded us one ready to use as a demonstration, for to consider textures, line, and grouping her Thanksgiving dining room table. like materials as they are found in One, a pumpkin, appeared to be spilling nature. Pine cones, apples, magnolia over with succulents. The second was leaves, rose hips—all can be found in the an intact white pumpkin. Any gourd neighborhood. Let your imagination run will work for this arrangement as long wild, but ask before you cut! There will be no meeting this as it has not been punctured. To show how she had done the orange pumpkin, month, but on January 24 Gabe Selak she sprayed an adhesive over the white will speak on the Panama-California one’s top. Then she affixed a thick layer 1915 Exposition. (Selak says it of moss to it, mounding it to the desired is “locally known as the Garden shape. Using a variety of succulents, Exposition.”) Fausto Palafox will she grouped like-clusters together also share information on where the creating a pleasing arrangement. She money we make goes as well as letting used trailing succulents to drape over us know how to be a part of the 2015 the pumpkin’s sides. A brief spray of Panama-California Expo Centennial. The meeting will be from 6 until 8 leaf shine completed the arrangement. Her final arrangement began with p.m. at the church at 4070 Jackdaw in damp floral foam (Oasis) in a container. Mission Hills between Fort Stockton A variety of ever-greens mixed with and West Lewis. www.PresidioSentinel.com

School News

San D iego’s South and N orth P ar k

Stand United in Chili Neighborhood Fest to Benefit Education The 4 th annual SoNo Fest and Chili Cookoff, scheduled from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, December 1 at 32nd & Thorn streets, gives San Diegans a chance to buy local, eat local and drink local, all for a good cause. This free holiday event, presented by the San Diego Ceramic Connection and the McKinley Elementary School Foundation, promises award winning chili as local restaurants face off for chili bragging rights to prove who makes it best. A panel of San Diego celebrities, including interim mayor Todd Gloria, will be on hand to crown the winners. The event is free and everyone is invited to sample the entries and vote for their favorites – $20 buys chili tastings in a handcrafted ceramic bowl. The festival, held in the heart of San Diego’s North/South Park neighborhoods at 32nd & Thorn, will also feature beer and wine from local breweries and vineyards, an assortment of food trucks, unique holiday gift shopping from local artists and craft vendors, live

music on two stages and a large kid zone area with carnival games and bounce houses. “We are continually amazed and gratified by the generous support of this community,” said McKinley principal Julie Ashton Gray, “This event helps us give McKinley students access to the arts, music and Spanish, which are important components for us to offer in order to sustain our International Baccalaureate status.” For a complete list of restaurants, celebrity judges, bands, vendors, food trucks and more event information, visit sonofestchilicookoff.com. McKinley Elementary School is an IB world school in San Diego’s North Park neighborhood. After years of cuts to education, schools like McKinley rely on community support to fund programs that would not otherwise be available. The SoNo Fest & Chili CookOff is an all volunteer event put on by McKinley families to provide funding for the arts, music and Spanish programs.

Lefty’s participates in the annual Chili CookOff. Photo by Sarah Scalo.

Pres id io Litt le Leag ue Is

Gearing Up for summer 2014 The Padres may be done for the year, but Spring Training is just around the corner. It’s almost time for another season of Presidio Little League. Presidio Little League has been playing at Sefton Park (at the far west end of Hotel Circle past AAA) in Mission Valley for over 40 years. In 2010, the Sefton Foundation and County of San Diego funded a significant renovation, making the fields one of the nicest baseball parks in the city. Presidio Little League is fairly small by Little League standards. The teams and families are closely knit and come

from the communities of Mission Hills, Hillcrest, Middletown, Bankers Hill, Morena, Linda Vista and Bay Park. Presidio Little League will begin registration on Friday, December 13 at Pioneer Park, from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. and again on Saturday, December 14 at Sefton Field from 10 a.m. to noon. Little League participants are from four-years old (BamBam) to 13 (50/70). Evaluations for players eight years old and older will be held on Saturday, January 25 at Sefton Field. Learn more at www.eteamz.com/ presidio.

It’s the end of the game rally for the league.

St. Vincent’s Teams Up with Local Restaurants Earlier this year, St. Vincent de Paul School partnered with local restaurants to raise much needed funds for the school. Parents and community members supported the school’s Just Lift Up A Fork fundraiser by dining at local Mission Hills restaurants - Brooklyn Girl Eatery, Lefty’s Chicago Pizzeria, The Red Door, and The Wellington. More than $700 was raised from the event to benefit infrastructure upgrades at the school for enhanced use of technology. “We greatly appreciate the generous contributions from these local restaurants,” said Sister Kathleen Walsh, Principal of St. Vincent de Paul School. “It was a great opportunity to enjoy a wonderful meal while benefitting our students at St. Vincent de Paul School.”

Raise Funds

Infrastructure upgrades have begun and will continue throughout the year. The improvements will provide improved wiring to support increased use of technology at the school. This will make it possible for a wide-range of technology related equipment including, smartboards and laptops to play an integral role in the education of the students and advance opportunities for them to engage is access to a wide range of educational resources. St. Vincent de Paul School is a Catholic, co-educational elementary school, founded in 1948 in the Mission Hills neighborhood of San Diego. Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, St. Vincent’s services children from Preschool through Eighth Grade. For more information about the school, visit www.svscatholic.org or call 619.296.2222.

Michael McGeath, owner of Brooklyn Girl Eatery, presents a check to Sr. Kathleen Walsh, principal of St. Vincent de Paul School. St. Vincent’s students (L—R) Grant Cardosa, Blake Cardosa, Siena Navarra, Anthony Navarra, and parent Jennifer Navarra joined in the presentation.

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City Council Extends Interim Height Ordinance

by Barry E. Hager On November 5th the City Council voted unanimously to extend the Uptown Interim Height Ordinance (IHO). The extension will remain in effect until the new community plan and zoning are in place, meaning there will be no need to extend this ordinance again. Prior versions of the ordinance, first adopted in July 2008 and again in January 2012, had “sunset” dates that expired regardless of the status of the community plan update. This extension will continue a firm height limit of 50’ in the commercial core of Mission Hills and 65’ in Hillcrest, with certain exceptions for rooftop equipment. Underlying zoning ordinances would have allowed buildings up to 150 feet (the approximate height of Green Manor) and 200 feet in these same areas. The concept of a 50 foot building height limit for Mission Hills has gained widespread acceptance over the last several years. Mission Hills Heritage, the Mission Hills Town Council and the Mission Hills Business Improvement District have all supported the 50 foot limit and extending the IHO until completion of the community plan update.

Our thanks to the members of the City Council, all of whom voted for the extension. A special thanks to Interim Mayor Todd Gloria who initiated the extension with the Planning Department and help usher it through the process. Thanks also to Councilmembers David Alvarez and Kevin Faulconer, who made and seconded the motion to adopt the ordinance, and Sherri Lightner, who spoke in favor of the extension. And last but not least, thanks to the residents of Mission Hills who attended this hearing and prior meetings, wrote to council members, and who have supported this ordinance since 2008. The focus now shifts to completing the Uptown community plan update. Started in the fall of 2008, the update process stalled when the City cut back planning staff during the recession. The Planning Department recently released a “discussion draft” of the plan and will begin holding workshops over the next few months. Barry Hager is a co-founder and board member of Mission Hills Heritage.

“Supporters of the Interim Height Ordinance gather outside City Council chambers.”

Local News

All Souls’ Saint Nicholas Home Tour: A Trad it ion of C h u rc h M ic e

The All Souls’ Home Tour began in 1952. It was that same year that the tradition of creating handmade church mice to represent something special each year began as a fund raiser for church charities. After 61 years there still is a line outside the door that opens at 1 p.m. of All Souls’ Episcopal Church for the lucky 100 people to buy this year’s edition and add to their collection. Some of the mice subjects include angels, British guards, bakers, hospice nurses, choir singers, Point Loma graduates, Scrooge and the list goes on, and on. The mouse tradition began with Elizabeth “Sport” Richards who had a vision that creating handmade church mice to be collector’s items would be a wonderful way to support the church’s philanthropies. An expert in needlepoint and hand The Santa mouse is one of many characters that is included at the Annual sewing, she was joined in 1973 by All Soul’s Saint Nicholas Home Tour. Marian Rodgers. They were able to produce 100 church mice a year and created a following that continues Nicholas Marketplace and lunch or today. Each year the theme of the tea at the café. The madrigal music mouse is a secret – only revealed when of Courtly Noyse will be performed throughout the day at the church the doors open the day of the tour. The current “Mice Lady” is Selma campus, located at 1475 Catalina Vassall, who has been making mice Boulevard in Point Loma. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 for 25 years and is still assisted by on the day of the tour. Visit www.allMarian Rodgers. The All Souls’ Saint Nicholas Home souls.com to purchase tickets, or go to Tour is 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Walter Andersen Nursery, To the Point December 7. Tour five Point Loma Café, Mission Hills Nursery or Ace homes, enjoy shopping at the Saint Hardware in Liberty Station. PRESIDIO HILLS PRESIDIO HILLS Way 2445 Marilouise 2445 Marilouise San Diego, Way CA 92103 San Diego, CA 92103 www.2445MarilouiseWay.com www.2445MarilouiseWay.com

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Local News

‘Tis the Season for S h o p p i n g , Fiesta de Reyes and the Cosmopolitan Restaurant and Hotel are the ideal place to spend the holiday season. With shopping deals, special seasonal menus, festive décor and a visit from Santa Claus, you will want to make it a tradition in your family to spend the most wonderful time of the year in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. “Shop and Dine” at Fiesta de Reyes and The Cosmopolitan Restaurant. For every $20 spent at one of the 19 boutique shops in Fiesta de Reyes, guests receive $5 off at Barra Barra Saloon, Casa de Reyes, or The Cosmopolitan Restaurant in Old Town. From children’s gifts, garden decor, ethnic-inspired clothing, and accents for any home, you’re

Las Posadas begins at 2 p.m. with the procession at 5 p.m.

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Dining and Special Holiday Events

Old Town Provides Lots of Fun Options

bound to find something for everyone on your holiday list. Guests may use one $5 coupon for every $20 worth of food and beverage purchased. Old Town’s Casa de Reyes is now serving Brunch Olé!, a traditional Mexican brunch with live entertainment every Sunday from 9 a.m. to noon in the lush garden plaza. The brunch features hearty Mexican breakfast items and $3 margaritas, champagne and mimosas. On Sunday, Dec. 15, the brunch will have a special visitor from the North Pole. Guests will get to meet with the Big Man himself, Santa Claus, from 10 a.m. to noon. Entrees are priced at $6.45 to $9.95 each and kids 12 and Old Town’s Case de Reyes is now serving brunch. under are $4.95. On Sat. Dec 14, Old Town San Diego Historic Park for the 63rd consecutive year. State Historic Park hosts Holiday in The Park Merchants Association and Write the Park. All of the museums, stores Out Loud reenact the biblical journey of Mary and restaurants in the park will be open and Joseph through the town of Bethlehem. and richly decorated. Guests will enjoy The event begins at 2 p.m. with a musical prespecial holiday treats, activities and show in the state park, with the live theatrical extended shopping hours, along with procession starting promptly at 5 p.m. A piñata strolling carolers on this evening until party and bonfire follow at 6 p.m. During the week between Christmas and New 8 p.m. Guests will also be able to view gingerbread houses in the merchant Year’s Eve, winter evenings are celebrated shops and enjoy s’mores by the bonfire. in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. The beloved Las Posadas procession Join carolers and other performers from dusk is hosted on Sunday, Dec. 15. This to 9 p.m. Sponsored by Fiesta de Reyes, free centuries-old tradition is being s’mores ‘round the bonfire are the highlight of celebrated in Old Town San Diego State the evening.

H i s t o r i c Yo u t h B a l l e t P r e s e n t s

“The Nutcracker”

The San Diego Civic Youth Ballet, the resident classical ballet school of Balboa Park since 1945, presents its annual production of the holiday favorite, “The Nutcracker,” featuring professional costumes, sets, lighting, and staging. The performance takes place at the historic Casa del Prado Theatre located in the cultural heart of Balboa Park at 1800 Village Place. Shows run from December 11 through December 22, with special Educational and Girl Scout shows held on the 11 and 12, respectively. Tickets, which range from $10 to $15, can be purchased at www.sdcyb.tix.com.

The Nutcracker showcases talent and elegance.

Local News

Spreckels Organ Concert

Benefits the San Diego Chapter of the American Red Cross San Diego’s giving season kicks off on Sunday, Dec. 1 with a free, five-hour Spreckels Organ concert from noon to 5 p.m. at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park. Donations received at the concert will benefit the San Diego Chapter of the American Red Cross. San Diego Civic Organist, Dr. Carol Williams, has prepared a huge variety of music for the event, including classical and contemporary pieces, marches, Broadway musicals, and compositions of her own to delight park visitors. The popular House of Scotland Pipe Band will start off the event and special guest readers, speakers and American Red Cross testimonials will be interspersed throughout the concert, inspiring community support of the American Red Cross mission - providing relief to victims of disaster. TAll ages are welcome to Spreckels Organ Concerts as are friendly, musicloving pets on leash. Admission and parking are free. For information, visit sosorgan.org.

The Spreckels Organ and Pavilion were a gift from John D. and Adolf Spreckels of the Spreckels sugar family, and were dedicated and first played on December 31, 1914. Photo courtesy of Bob Lang.

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Theatre

Old Globe Theatre

Directed by James Vásquez, “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” is a wonderful, whimsical musical based upon the classic Dr. Seuss book. Back for its 16th incredible year, the family favorite features the songs “This Time of Year,” “Santa for a Day” and “Fah Who Doraze,” the delightful carol from the popular animated version of How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Celebrate the holidays as the Old Globe Theatre is once again transformed into the snowcovered Whoville, right down to the last can of Who-hash. “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas!”runs through December 28 at the Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage of the Old Globe Theatre. The cast includes Steve Blanchard (The Grinch), Jeffrey Schecter (Young Max), Steve Gunderson (Old Max), Taylor Coleman and Gabriella Dimmick (Cindy-Lou Who). Old Globe is located in San Diego’s Balboa Park at 1363 Old Globe Way. Free parking is available throughout the park. For Gabriella Dimmick as Cindy-Lou Who and Steve Blanchard as The Grinch. Photo by Jim Cox. information, call 619.234.5623.

Cygnet Theatre

Cygnet Theatre continues its annual holiday tradition of presenting a live radio play direct from the “broadcast studios” of WCYG. For seven years, theater-goers have enjoyed being part of the live studio audience watching “Christmas Eve broadcasts” of holiday classics. Cygnet returns to the 1940’s era studio to bring to life a unique presentation of the classic, “A Christmas Carol,” complete with holiday music, commercials and the much-loved live sound effects. “A Christmas Carol runs from December 7 through 24 at the Old Town Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St. in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. The WCYG players bring to life the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his three ghostly visitors. The show features new original songs with lyrics by Sean Murray and music by Billy Thompson. This new adaptation promises to be

light and bright while embracing a fun and festive Christmas spirit. The entire theatre will be full of holiday cheer and audiences are invited to come early, mingle with the cast, enjoy some special holiday drinks and take photos next to our traditional and unique Cygnet holiday tree. Cygnet welcomes many cast members back to reprise their roles and adds a few new performers to the mix. This season’s cast features Tom Stephenson as Ebenezer Scrooge. The announcer will be played by Jonathan Dunn-Rankin. Tickets can be purchased by visiting Cygnet’s website at cygnettheatre.com or by calling the box office at 619-3371525. Tickets can also be purchased in person by visiting Cygnet’s box office located at the Old Town Theatre.

Left to right are Melinda Gilb, Tom Stephenson and Maggie Carney in “A Christmas Carol.” Photo by Daren Scott.

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San Diego Musical Theatre Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” will run from December 12 through 22, 2013 at The Birch North Park Theatre, located at 2891 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104. Based on the beloved, timeless film, this heartwarming musical adaption features seventeen Irving Berlin songs, played by a live 22 piece orchestra. Veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis have a successful song-anddance act after World War II. With romance in mind, the two follow a duo of beautiful singing sisters en route to their Christmas show at a Vermont lodge, which just happens to be owned by Bob and Phil’s former army commander. The dazzling score features well known standards including “Blue Skies,” “I Love A Piano,” “How Deep Is the Ocean” and the perennial favorite, “White Christmas.” The production team includes Todd Nielsen, a multi-award winning director, who served as resident director for the Cheetah National Tour of Disney’s Lion King. Lisa Hopkins (choreographer) is very active in the

The cast of Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas” dance and sing in holiday spirit.

theatre world as a producer, director and choreographer and master teacher. The cast includes Todd DuBail as Bob Wallace, Jeffrey Scott Parsons as Phil Davis, Laura Dickinson as Betty Haynes and Jill Townsend as Judy Haynes. For information, call 858.560.5740.

National Comedy Theatre National Comedy Theatre Presents ‘New Years Eve Spectacular’ National Comedy Theatre, San Diego’s nationally acclaimed improv comedy show, will present the company’s annual “New Years Eve Spectacular” performance and party on Tuesday, Dec. 31. On this special evening, guests enjoy a catered buffet, a hilarious improv comedy performance, and a champagne toast at midnight. Guests also receive party favors, noisemakers and balloons to ring in the new year. Festivities begin at 8:30 p.m. National Comedy Theatre is located at 3717 India Street, San Diego, CA 92103. Tickets must be purchased online in advance at www.nationalcomedy.com. For information, call 619.295.4999.

Members of the comedy cast include (l to r) Joe Birdsong, Chris Daily and Emily Frank. Photo by Daren Scott.

Lifestyle News

Clothing Innovation Meets Automotive Creations by Aubree Lynn Stylist/Writer/Producer

I would like to introduce you to my friend, Daniel Pharis, who will soon be known for his role with innovation of automobile design. Pharis has developed a new approach to designing automobiles. He has transformed the designs that a model wears on the runway to vehicles being driven on the streets. Pharis is a second term student at the Art Center College of Design, pursuing a degree in transportation design. He has always been interested in design and has sketched cars from a young age. He is excited about his future and what his education is allowing him to experience, “I am very fortunate to be able to attend one of the best design schools in the world,” offered Pharis, who is nearing his fifth term when he is able to intern. He desires to go to Europe, designing and eventually end up in a California Studio. As designers of fashion and automobiles we are always seeking inspiration, and new ways of approaching design and function. We look for ways of evoking emotions through form, providing solutions and developing strong aesthetics and/ or character. Pharis shared his recent experience as my guest of Fashion

Week San Diego, “I’ve always had an appreciation for fashion, and Aubree Lynn was kind enough, to invite me to Fashion Week San Diego 2013.” When first talking to Pharis about the idea of coming to Fashion Week San Diego, for more inspiration outside of his norm, he was enthusiastic and excited to see what my world was all about. I then decided it would be an awesome collaboration to have Daniel Pharis create some sketches of what was portrayed on the runway and making them into his own car concepts. Even though his schooling is demanding and deadlines are constant he agreed. I was eager to see what he would design. Here in Pharis’ own words he describes in detail his process of the sketches from three designers’ photos. Left to right is Danh Ta, Ashley

Pharis’ auto design sketches are shown next to three designers’ work. Left to right is Danh Ta, Ashley Raymond and NOiA.

Raymond and NOiA, which were featured on the finale night of Fashion Week San Diego: “These are sketches I did for Fashion Week. I took the form of the fabric and feel of what it was doing and slowly emulated it into a vehicle sketch. I first like to observe the design. I figure out whether it is soft or angular, flowing or

rigid. I then figure out what the form is doing by sketching it and extracting it into ‘volumized’ proportions. It’s important to keep the essence of the inspiration, so I try to implement features and main character lines, while also paying close attention to feel of the sketch itself.”

L ANDMARK THEATRE “Inside Llewyn Davis” follows a week in the life of a young folk singer as he navigates the Greenwich Village folk scene of 1961. Llewyn Davis (Oscar Isaac) is at a crossroads. Guitar in tow, huddled against the unforgiving New York winter, he is struggling to make it as a musician against seemingly insurmountable obstacles— some of them of his own making. Living at the mercy of both friends and strangers, scaring up what work he can find, Llewyn’s misadventures take him from the baskethouses of the Village to an empty Chicago club— on an odyssey to audition for a music mogul—and back again. Brimming with music performed by Isaac, Justin Timberlake and

Carey Mulligan (as Llewyn’s married Village friends), as well as Marcus Mumford and Punch Brothers, “Inside Llewyn Davis” is infused with the transportive sound of another time and place. An epic on an intimate scale, it represents Joel and Ethan Coen’s (“O Brother, Where Art Thou?”) fourth collaboration with multiple Grammyand Academy Award-winning music producer T-Bone Burnett. “Inside Llewyn Davis” is 104 minutes, Rated R and opens December 20 at Landmark’s Hillcrest Cinemas. For information and times, call (619) 819-0236, or visit www.landmarkTheatres.com. Film times and dates are subject to change.

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fitnesstogether.com/missionhills Oscar Isaac (as Llewyn Davis) performs with Justin Timberlake.

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Lifestyle

Barney Can’t Be Bothered by Laura Walcher

Frenzied! Now, you wouldn’t expect this adjective to be used to describe a dog—or any dog—but after careful observation and consideration—this is it: Ginger is one excitable dog. Yes, this column is about Barney, and in his youth, Barney was occasionally frenzied. But now, in his dotage, the only motivations for that much excitement are his declining enemies’ list (i.e. Boxers) and, as had been exhaustively reported, the parking ticket scooters. (We still haven’t figured that one out. But we have lost a few puzzled parking scooter driver friends.) Ginger, however, is a puppy; the newbie canine in son Bill Walcher’s family. At just a few months old, she is strong and smart, and…frenzied. Ruby, who’d been an “only” dog there ‘til Ginger showed up, has resigned herself to long-suffering-itis. Around here, it’s something like “bombs away!” when that branch of the clan shows up. Ginger makes a maniacal beeline for Barney’s food. Only when that’s been inhaled, she makes the ‘rounds, and heaven help us if we get in the way of that swinging tail. There was a time when Barney would have gone to war over his food. Today, he doesn’t merely sigh (“here she goes again!”), he cedes. He’s cool. Maybe he’s just not hungry, but we think it’s…the wisdom of age.

Herewith, Barney’s lessons learned: He cedes over the food issue because— he’s developed patience. He now knows he’ll eventually win out; after these competitors have gone home, he’ll get a bonus: his food—and a walk. On these walks, he has bagged the “look both ways while crossing the street” lesson. He’s learned, if you look four ways and no cars are coming, you can cross faster—diagonally. Cats scratch. Can a dog who’s become deaf “hear” the distinction between “Stay!” and “Okay!” ? Yes. Yawn. If he doesn’t need to go, he doesn’t need to go. One eager walkoffering could possibly get a bored glance; at an invitation to a walk, Barney might even stretch or turn over—acknowledging—but not to be confused with—enthusiasm. Unless, see previous bullet, it’s me. Per excellent judgment in his dotage, I’m the favorite. I need only to wave my pinkie or glance door-ward, and he turns from couch potato into a frenzy of action, proving, as he occasionally does, that the athlete’s still in there somewhere. Just judiciously meted out. Fortunately for society at large, Barney’s enemies’ list has declined. We’re actually quite impressed with

Ruby and Ginger share a quiet moment.

his senior conflict avoidance techniques, like escaping to the bathroom rug when exuberant youngsters like Ginger show up, or—just as unwelcome, company that he doesn’t really know. And doesn’t want to know. And, instead of direct counter- attacking those little guys—Chihuahuas and Pekes—who go totally ballistic at the very sight of Barney, these days he wins—by staring them down. Barney? He just can’t be bothered. Note: Barney, one of the major subjects of this article, left us on November 22, 2013. He was a good dog. RIP, Barney.

NextG Cellular Pole Meeting Held in Mission Hills The second neighborhood meeting pursuant to the Uptown Planners motion regarding the NextG cellular pole was held at 10 a.m., Wednesday October 30 at Jim Reily’s residence, in close proximity to the proposed light/cellular tower locations. In attendance were three representatives for the applicant; Dennis McColl, principal engineer for Version Wireless; surrounding neighbors; Patty Ducey-Brooks, publisher and executive editor of the Presidio Sentinel; and Sharon Gehl, Mission Hills Town Council subcommittee chair of cellular affairs.

www.PresidioSentinel.com

The meeting had two goals: consensus on the design of the combined street light/cellular antenna-completed; and agreement on a location for the new street light/light antenna-completed. A diagram of the proposed light/ cellular tower was presented. This new drawing showed three control boxes inside of the structure allowing up to three different wireless carriers to utilize this one pole. After a very brief discussion all of the neighborhood representatives approved the new design. Crown Castle assured the group that they would assume all manufacturing

and installation costs of the new street light/antenna. There would be no cost to the Mission Hills Historic Street Lighting Maintenance Assessment District. In fact, the District could save the manufacturing and installation costs of one of the planned acorn lights at the proposed location (option A) as the combination street light/antenna will replace one of the previously designated acorn light installations. The Verizon representative, Dennis McColl, gave a short technical discussion of the composite power of the cellular tower’s output, saying that at a ten foot distance from the initial source, the power output was effectively less than a personal cell phone. A Google Earth Picture was distributed showing two proposed locations for the new cellular/street light tower. Option A showed a location at the A diagram of the proposed street lighting North East Corner of the existing with the cellular unit receives approval. alley between Ft. Stockton and Pine Street. This site is adjacent to their preferred location. The vast to the existing (new) SDG&E Power majority of neighbors present said Box, and the site of one of the new that either location could work, but acorn street lights. for esthetic reasons, a small majority Option B showed a location at the preferred Option A. All of the North West Corner of Ft. Stockton neighbors present agreed that should and Trias Street, also the site of one Option A not work for some reason, of the new acorn street lights. then Option B was acceptable. After a brief discussion, the Jim Reily agreed to present the neighbors were polled (and some not results of the meeting at the November present but polled beforehand) as Uptown Planners meeting.

Lifestyle

New Kid in Town

by Charlotte Tenney, MA Integrative Health

Along with the arrival of Bastyr University to San Diego, we have enjoyed the addition of some dedicated herbalists to our community. One of them, a naturopathic doctor and herbalist from Perth, Australia has chosen to volunteer to help in the Trees for Health Arboretum in Balboa Park. Classically trained in functional health and plant medicine, Serena Silberman likes to, quite literally, keep her hand in gardening. When she relocated to San Diego to be with her husband, a student at Bastyr University, she sought out a place to connect with the plants she already knows and to learn the local ones. She heard about the garden in Balboa Park through a brochure that her husband brought home from school. As a kid, Silberman was taught by her father to help out in the family orchard. He told her stories about the plants that his mother had loved to use for food and home remedies, such as stinging nettle. As an adult, she discovered that she had a grandmother (on her mother’s side of the family) who lived in Ohio and was also a passionate herbal healer. Herbalism runs in her genes. She began working in a pharmacy and was trained to manufacture fresh, herbal skin products with an emphasis on preparations helpful during pregnancy. This led her to study with renowned herbalist, Kerry Bone, and into a practice dealing with women’s health, fertility issues and natural hormone balancing. She often ended up treating the children of her patients, including teaching them the “magic” tingling of Echinacea on the tongue to cure colds. Silberman is settling in to become a permanent resident here in San Diego. She has joined a

healthcare practice in Encinitas called North County Integrative Health Center, where she will collaborate on the treatment of patients with a kinesiologist and chiropractor. Her specialty will be functional medicine that diagnoses and treats systemic disorders to address the root cause and achieve overall health. She treats using a combination of nutritional, herbal, and physical modalities. Her philosophy is that lifestyle is 80 percent of your health and that each individual needs a personalized diagnosis to achieve the vitality that she/he deserves by fine-tuning their own habits to suit their specific constitution. (Find her at www. ncintegrativehealth.com or (619) 847-8742.) In keeping with her convictions about the importance of lifestyle, she also teaches healthy cooking classes at UCSD’s Integrative Health Department ( www. cim.ucsd.edu/classes-events/naturalhealing) that are open to the public. The classes offer a traditional culture theme to healthy cooking. One of her favorite ingredients is burdock root, sometimes called “gobo,” due to its nourishing, cleansing and tasty properties. Silberman agreed to be the first herbalist filmed “on location” in a (soon to be) series of videos on healers who talk about plants in the Trees for Health Arboretum. She discusses some core plants that she uses in her practice: vitex, sage and ashwaganda. You can access her video at www.YouTube.com. Put in the search for “Trees for Health Arboretum, San Diego.” Her video will be followed up, over the next year, with a dozen or so local herbalists sharing their expertise and passion for plant medicine that can be found in Trees for Health. Silberman loves San Diego for its laid back lifestyle that she says is similar to that of Perth.

ENJOY!

Human TuneUp Column by Cath

A warm cup of coffee. Listening to good music. Laughing with friends.

Serena Silberman is a naturopathic doctor and herbalist from Perth, Australia.

She appreciates being close to the beaches, the mild weather and the diversity of geographic areas all within a day’s drive. She is eager to learn more about the native plants by going on hikes with the members of the San Diego Chapter of the American Herbalist Guild (SDAHG). And we are happy to welcome her as a new SDAHG member, holistic practitioner, herbal educator and additional volunteer in the garden.

Life Without Pain? No. by Cath DeStefano

These are some things that make our lives rich, full and rewarding. Church can be that same kind of experience! At our church you will find warm relationships, good music, insightful messages and a great cup of coffee! You are invited you to stop by this Sunday and experience it for yourself. We’re in the neighborhood. Regular Sunday Schedule 8:55 a.m. Contemporary Worship 10:00 a.m. Church School Classes 11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship

University Christian Church

Disciples of Christ

3900 Cleveland Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 Phone: (619) 295-4146 For information, call or visit our web site. www.univchristianchurch.com Visit us on Facebook An Open and Afﬁrming Congregation

What do some do when their going gets tough? “I first panic, then take charge in the way an old horse would, slow and measured. And I call on friends,” Natalie Goldberg, author of “Writing Down the Bones.” “When the going gets tough, I make sure I keep up the routines that are important to me, especially meditation, exercise, and good nutrition,” Andrew Weil, author of “Breathing and Integrative Medicine.” “I take the next opportunity to stop being busy, to create some breathing room for myself. Sometimes I go out and listen to the rhythm of the natural world,” Jane Seaton, author of “Artlife.” Money won’t be enough to keep the pains of life away. There is really nothing to do but to have a core set of values that are foundational for our lives and live by them. Might I suggest three? 1. Simplify. Many see simplicity as: Work differently. Work less. Not working at all. Scaling down on stuff. Less scheduled time. “I cut back on time at work. I was so tired of feeling pressured and stressed. Work got my best energy.

Personal time got whatever might be left over,” Mary Lou Stafford. 2. Under-consume. Live within our means. To under-consume is to be free. Stuff is not a good plan for keeping pain away although some certainly try. “It took me 20 years to figure out this material world is not all it’s cracked up to be. It was time for me to scale down,” Lynda Martinez. 3. Love. There’s nothing like a core of quality loving people around to help buffer the rough spots of life. It only takes one or two or three to be enough. Above all, may we have this in life.

Cath DeStefano

Customer Service TuneUps Workshop & Keynote Etc. Come visit:

HumanTuneUp.com Let me hear from you:

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JUNE 2013 Display Ad for Presidio Sentinal

Music Scene

The Two Faces of Bert with an “E”

by Richard Cone Every musician who makes a living with his or her talent knows that finding one’s niche is key – that particular style of music, or that type of venue where they can flourish and grow. For one songwriter/singer/ piano player, that niche turned out to be in the middle of the ocean. Bert Stratton is a multitalented performer eerily reminiscent of a young Victor Borge, with a dash of Jim Carrey, especially when he breaks into his trademark wide grin that almost matches Carrey’s in “The Mask.” He’s the Smothers Brothers without a brother. But he also has a serious side, a phenomenal singer who has a style that is uniquely his own. He’s carved out a successful career aboard a host of cruise ships, currently with the Princess line, where he was one of only five nominees out of 5,000 for their Entertainer of the Year award. I saw Stratton perform four times over seven days recently and returned determined to share this funny and talented man with our readers. Standing behind a grand piano, the top of which is littered with glasses filled with lemon wedges, bottles of water, songbooks, a towel and an inexplicable bottle of tabasco sauce is Stratton’s preferred way to play. (A habit picked up, he explains with a straight face, from playing piano in the school marching band.) He gives a high energy performance that draws his audience in, whether they like it or not. Bounding on stage like it’s his first show (when he’s actually done in excess of 10,000) Stratton immediately gets the audience involved, making

Leoncavallo’s

them repeat his name “Bert, with an E,” and when he flashes his teeth, it looks like he’s trying to pick up some extra money from a toothpaste ad. “Floss first, then brush, then floss again,” he intones. Life lessons with the music at no extra charge. Running through a 1950-1980 set of rock and roll, you see immediately that this is a very talented piano player, who can play rock and roll, show tunes, folk and standards, and can sing them all. But these are not serious attempts to sing properly, it’s a schtick. The serious side of Stratton, though, is a trained and talented singer. It’s one thing to sing “Rawhide” and give your belt to an audience member to make the “whip crack” sounds in the song, or to get 100 people singing “Shake, Rattle and Roll,” and quite another to solo play and sing “The Music of the Night” from Phantom, and just kill it. “Michael Crawford’s got nothin’ on you” was one shout from the audience. After he plays a serious version of Glen Campbell’s “Gentle on my Mind,” Stratton takes the audience to school for a bit, with a bio of and a nod to John Hartford, the composer. It’s all about the song. Stratton is not only an accomplished singer, musician and performer; he is also a brilliant songwriter who shares his life experience through his original songs, many of which are recorded on his four CD’s and reprised on his CD “Best of Bert” which contains cuts from all four. He also has a DVD of his onboard performance that’s fun to watch with company, and it’s all family-friendly entertainment. Like Bill Cosby, Bert doesn’t do blue humor. Stratton really does have “two faces,” one is the comic with his gapes and

grins, the other is the serious singer, and that’s who you hear on his CD’s, a voice reminiscent of Paul Simon and James Taylor, and compositions that are insightful, poignant and tender. Stratton’s passion for music started at an early age. After learning how to read music, the young Bert discovered he had a natural gift for playing by ear and he has been self-taught ever since. True to his roots, he transforms the lounge in which he plays into a magical living-room where the audience becomes a family. “I get back laughter from the audience, and we start throwing energy back and forth and the cycle starts, it’s a ‘we’re all in this together’ thing, like a perpetual motion machine.” Stratton has performed all over the world and lived in some of the most famous music centers such as Nashville and Austin. His career has taken an unexpected turn as of late. Pat Boone recently recorded Stratton’s song “Ready to Rock,” and Boone is a big fan. His first major breakthrough came when Boone recorded one of Stratton’s songs and made it a title cut on his newest album. Stratton is also a writer member of ASCAP with a slew of credits. He wrote the very first Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle rap for a cassette comic book put out by Random House before the movie ever hit the screen. Stratton is also a writer with Shadow Mountain Publishing, and his song “You Got Me,” co-written by CJ Watson is in the indie film “Halloween Party.” He’s also written and had published scores of Sacred Choral anthems and been published numerous times with Shawnee Press, Carl Fischer, Briley, Lorenz and Alfred. “I strive to be an all—around entertainer,” he says. “That includes

Bert strives to be a all-around performer. Photo courtesy of James Lightfoot Jr.

interpreting the music of well-known artists across genres as well as writing, arranging and performing my original compositions. I love songwriting. I’ve been doing it for a long time. The most important thing I’ve learned is to always remain flexible, open, and teachable. I enjoy collaboration. I feel it’s an experience that shouldn’t be missed. I’ve been fortunate to be able to work with some of the best.” Stratton’s fans are legion and among the most dedicated you’ll find, he calls them “Bertified” fans. He’s amassed an army of them in 20 plus years of onboard performing and their praise is seemingly limitless. You can preview Stratton’s work on YouTube where you’ll find a whole column of videos, and you can order the DVD and his CD’s at www.bertstratton.com. While you’re at his site, read some of the comments left by fans. It will help when you draft yours.

“Pagliacci” Opens San Diego Opera’s 2014 Season

San Diego Opera announces the return of opera’s beloved “Pagliacci” by Ruggero Leoncavallo when it opens the 2014 season on Saturday, January 25, 2014 for four performances only. Making his return to the Company to sing the role of the murderous clown Canio, is American tenor Frank Porretta who was last heard as the Duke in “Rigoletto” in 2002. Soprano Adina Nitescu makes her Company debut as Nedda, Canio’s ill-fated wife. Also making a Company debut is baritone Rodolfo Giugliani as the hunchback Tonio, who is in love with Nedda. Baritone David Adam Moore, who made his Company debut as Mercutio in 2010’s “Romeo and Juliet” to rave reviews, returns to sing the role of Nedda’s lover, Silvio. Rounding out the cast is tenor Joel Sorensen as Beppe. Conductor Yves Abel, who made his Company debut last season leading performances of “The Daughter of the Regiment,” leads the orchestra for these performances. Director Andrew Sinclair, who directed last season’s “Aida,” www.PresidioSentinel.com

returns to stage the action. The set design is by John Coyne and the costumes were designed by Ed Kotanen. The lighting designer is Michael Whitfield. This production of “Pagliacci” is owned by San Diego Opera. These performances will be the fourth time this opera has been performed by San Diego Opera with other performances happening in 2008, 1979 and 1969. One of the most powerful operas in the repertoire, “Pagliacci” is gutwrenching as the hunchback Tonio, a member of a traveling troupe of players, is rejected by Canio’s wife, Nedda. After Tonio sees Nedda with another man, in an act of revenge he tells Canio. In the famous aria “Vesti la giubba,” Canio applies his clown make-up saying that the show must go on, but creates his own murderous ending before horrified onlookers. Tickets can be purchased by calling 619.533.7000 or online at www.sdopera.com. American tenor Frank Porretta sings the role of Canio, the murderous clown.

Cannonball Makes A Big Splash

Dining Scene

At Belmont Park

by David Rottenberg

It may be winter but don’t stop enjoying the lovely beaches of San Diego. America’s finest city enjoys America’s finest weather, with many “beach days” even when other parts of our country are covered with deep snow. It is great fun to lie on the sand wearing a bathing suit in balmy sunlight even in December. Or, better yet, you can gaze on beachgoers while enjoying great food and enticing drinks from the comfortable rooftop Cannonball. What a great venue at which to relish in the glowing sunsets, which can be made all the more brilliant by tasty cocktails such as the skinny dip margarita, blending smooth Avion Silver Tequila with the sweet heaviness of Grand Marnier. Pepper, not salt, coats the rim. Or, try the aptly named sunset colada, a more traditional mix of Bacadi rum and pina colada. Belmont Park predates the opening of Cannonball by exactly 88 years. The Park was built by John Spreckels, one of San Diego’s pioneer land developers, to attract residents in order to sell real estate lots in Mission Beach. The Park offered amusement rides, including the Giant Dipper, one of the few remaining wooden roller coasters. Also built was The Plunge, a large indoor pool, whose utility could be questioned, since the ocean was so close. Management of the property has been taken over by EDS (Eat, Drink, Sleep) a locally based company. In the past 15 years, EDS has established a luxury, lifestyle brand that includes four boutique hotel properties, nine concept-

driven restaurants, an iconic beachfront amusement park and two golf courses. The company is bringing its skill and cash to restore the Park to glory. Cannonball is one of its first efforts. It occupies 6,000 square feet of rooftop, offering lots of room to relax and enjoy. Still a “work in progress” as the rear section of the rooftop is still under development, the bar area features 4 televisions where the current games are being shown. High tables and chairs make it easy to look over to watch beachgoers and sunsets. The real magic is in the kitchen, where Brad Wise runs the show. In fact, he runs the show for all the eateries at the Park. At Cannonball, he’s doing a Chef Wise hails from Cape May, New Jersey. great job. Chef Wise hails from Cape May, NJ, a lovely Victorian town. He began his on. The lobster roll combines lobster and avocareer with food as early as age 12. He worked cado with an eel sauce. The edges of the lobster at the acclaimed Washington Inn and graduated roll are crispy, creating a new sensation on the from the Academy of Culinary Arts. Coming to palate for an exceptional dish. “Shares” include roasted Pacific salmon, a San Diego, he found a career home with EDS, helping to make the large portion perfectly prepared, served with company’s JRDN at an amazing quinoa and corn chowder. Chicken Tower 23 in Pacific osso bucco serves meaty chicken legs, deftly Beach and Belvedere prepared. Butter leaf salad, for light eaters, Room in Bakersfield combines tasty greens and veggies in a great into recognized peanut sauce. My favorite – garlic shrimp – features a large plate of shrimp in an amazing culinary hotspots. His menu at Cannon- garlic sauce. Grilled bread is provided to sop up ball features sushi and the wonderful liquids. The quality of the food preparation and small plates (actually, not so small – por- presentation is superb. You can’t go wrong. tions were nice size) Service by the friendly staff is attentive, quick, for sharing. Items are and helpful. Prices are moderate, really a listed as “shares, rolls bargain given the quality of the food and drink. and sushi”. The ubiq- Here’s some good news: Cannonball’s Happy uitous California roll Hour (Sunday-Thursday, 4-6 pm) offers 50 and spicy tuna roll are percent discount on food. Cannonball is located at 3105 Ocean Front there. But be adventurous. Many of the Walk in Mission Beach. Call (858) 228-9283 combination rolls are for information and reservations. Enjoy the Garlic shrimp features a large plate that includes grilled bread. unique and tasty. En- beach, the sun during the day, the sunsets, the fuego combines crab cool evenings. That’s what living in San Diego and avocado wrapped is all about. by torch seared salm-

Enjoy Christmas With Us!

You can enjoy views of the beach from every seat.

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Calendar

December

Thru December 18th

n Junior ROTC Holiday Food Drive, various high schools. JROTC students of the San Diego Unified School District conduct a Holiday Season food drive to help those in need. Those wishing to donate to this cause can deliver canned or dried food to your local JROTC High School Program. Donated canned and dried goods go to various local charities, churches and food banks to be distributed to families just before the holidays. Contact: David Guzman, JROTC Program Manager, 858-4968203. Open to the public.

Thru December 31st

n Coronado Museum of History & Art located at 1100 Orange Avenue, will explore in detail, when their newest exhibit, 100+ Years of Coronado Yachting opens this month. Coronado’s yachting history is deep, with many surprising twists. The museum is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is by donation. For information, visit www.coronadohistory.org or call 619-435-7242.

Thru December 31st

n San Diego Natural History Museum (theNAT) Photography exhibition – Best of Nature – View inventive and daring nature-based imagery by amateur and professional photographers. Two rounds of judging took place to choose the winning photographs, which range from landscape and wildlife images to abstract/impressionistic nature-based images. For more information visit www.sdnhm.org.

Thru January 5th

n San Diego Natural History Museum (theNAT) Tells the Hidden Stories Behind the World’s Most Popular Drink. The World in Your Cup is a nationally touring exhibit that will be on view starting December 4th. The exhibition provides a broad overview of the powerful influence of coffee on environments, human cultures, and economies worldwide. For more information visit www.sdnhm.org.

November 27 thru December 1st

n America’s Finest City Dixieland Jazz Society (AFCDJS), a non-profit organization that incorporates hundred of members, volunteers and sponsors. This Festival is held at the Town and Country Resort and Convention Center, 500 Hotel Circle North in Mission Valley, where over 30 bands will perform in several ballrooms and small venues.

December 11th thru February 26, 2014

n The Gotthelf Art Gallery is pleased to present SmArt: The Art of Jewish Educators. Free and open to the public. Exclusive Friends of the Gallery Sneak Peek starts at 7 p.m. RSVP to 858-362-1344 or gallery@lfjcc. com. The reception opens to the public at 7:30 p.m. No RSVP necessary.

December 1st

n San Diego’s South and North Park ‘Hoods Stand United in Chili 4th Annual SoNo Neighborhood Fest Features Chili, Beer, Shopping and Music to Benefit Education. This free holiday event, presented by the San Diego Ceramic Connection and the McKinley Elementary School Foundation, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 32nd and Thorn Streets gives San Diegans a chance to buy local, eat local and drink local, all for a good cause. The event is free and everyone is invited to sample the entries and vote for their favorites. $20 buys chili tasting in a handcrafted ceramic bowl. For information, visit www.sonofestchilicookoff.com n Robin Henkel and Billy Watson – Blues Brunch at Humphrey’s Backstage Live, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (brunch price: $43.50 per adult) at 2303 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego. Call 619-224-3411 for information. n CD Release Event for jazz bassist Justin Grinnell’s debut CD featuring Josh Nelson piano, Dan Schnelle drums, & Robby Marshall woodwinds will be at dizzy’s at 6 p.m. $15 cover ($10 students) at the showroom of San Diego Jet Ski Rentals, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive at Rosewood Street, San Diego, on the Southern edge of Pacific Beach. n The Spreckels Organ Society and San Diego Civic Organist Carol Williams present a free, five hour Spreckels Organ concert benefitting the San Diego Chapter of the American Red Cross. The Spreckels Organ Pavilion is located at the heart of Balboa Park, 1549 El Prado, San Diego. This concert is from noon to 5 p.m. and admission is free. n Java Bach, Mingle @ the Mingle, Mingel International Museum at 1439 El Prado, San Diego at 6 p.m. Camarada celebrates the esprit of baroque music with Bach’s intimate B minor Suite for flute/strings and selections from Mach’s amusing and satirical Coffee Cantata for soprano and chamber ensemble. For information, call 619-231-3702 or visit www.camarada.org.

December 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th

n National Comedy Theater‘s The Sunday Company features San Diego’s up and coming improve comedy performers at 7:30 p.m. The Sunday Company is an edgy, hilarious, hour-long dose of comedy, performing monthly on Sunday nights at the Theatre, located at 3717 India Street, San Diego, Tickets are $12 and can be purchased online or at the door. For information, visit www.nationalcomedy.com.

December 2nd

n The North Chapel, Liberty Station at 2881 Roosevelt Rd. San Diego, at 7 p.m. will hold a open community conversation lecturer for the San Diego Opera’s new 2014 season. The fourth in the series of four will have San Diego Opera’s Geisel Director of Education and Outreach, Dr. Nicolas Reveles and Guest: James Stout, Elite Cyclist, as they explore connections between the themes and episodes in Cervantes’ classic novel Don Quixote. All events are free and open to the public but an RSVP is required as the venues have a capacity limit and previous events have reached their limit. Visit www.sdopera.com/C2/Default for more information. n Robin Henkel Band with Horns! And guest Whitney Shay at Humphrey’s Backstage Live, 7 to 11 p.m. is free for 21 and up at 2303 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego. Call 619224-3411 for information. n Pt. Loma Cluster Schools Board meeting, 6:30 p.m., Correia Middle School, 4302 Valeta St. (92107). Parents, students and community members are invited to attend this meeting, which discusses educational issues at the high school and its middle and elementary schools. Schools in the Pt. Loma cluster are: Barnard, Cabrillo, Dewey, Loma Portal, Ocean Beach, Silver Gate and Sunset View elementary schools; Correia and Dana middle schools/ Pt. Loma High School. Contact: Laura Caffo, lmcinsd@gmail.com. Open to the public. n The Reuben H Fleet Science Center’s Eugene Heikoff and Marilyn Jacobs Heikoff Giant Dome Theatre located at 1875 El Prado, San Diego will present Jim Price as he explores the evolution of local transport as he shows the fascinating history of San Diego County’s streetcars – illustrated with photos and maps. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. with the lecture beginning at 10:30 a.m. with film at noon. For information, visit www. rhfleet.org/events/senior-mondays. n San Diego Center for Jewish Culture Welcome to America: Memories of a Bintel Brief. This year’s book fair and audience cried, laughed, and cheered as they watched a family go from the Lower Side to Long Island. This program is being held at the Lawrence Family JCC at 7

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p.m. RSVP is recommended. Call 858-362-1330 or visit paolal@lfjcc.com.

December 3rd

n Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, at 11 a.m. offers a free docent-guided art tour of the Wolfstein Sculpture Park. As part of the Arts for Healing Program, the sculpture park was designed to enrich the hospital experience for patients, families and staff; and is also open to the public and community groups. The collection features over 30 sculptures created by accomplished local and international artist. For information, call 858-626-6994 and to make reservation. n Traynon Martin-George Zimmerman Community Dialogue from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Eugene Brucker Education Center Auditorium, 4100 Normal St. (92103). This event will offer the opportunity for students to interact in a facilitated conversation with organizations that have partnered with San Diego Unified, including the NAACP, the Anti-Defamation League, the City of San Diego Human Relations Commission, Assembly Member Dr. Shirley Weber, and the District Attorney’s Office. Open to the public.

December 4th

n Whitney Shay and Robin Henkel perform from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Kona Kai Resort, 1551 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego.Call 619-295-9690 for information. n Reuben H Fleet Science Center, located at 1875 El Prado in Balboa Park will have the Origami with Bruce Gemmell from 4 to 7 p.m.. The traditional art of paper folding has evolved into a venerable modern art form with solid foundations in math and science. Participation is included with gallery admission. For information, visit www.rhfleet. org or call 619-238-1233.

December 5th

n Jim Romeo & the Mesa College Jazz Ensemble present their annual tribute to the Holidays Jingle Bell Jazz, will be at dizzy’s at 8 p.m. $15 cover at the showroom of San Diego Jet Ski Rentals, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive at Rosewood Street, San Diego, on the Southern edge of Pacific Beach. n The International Bipolar Foundation will have their free mental health lecture series and book signing with Author, Karen Winters Schwartz who has traveled throughout the country advocating for mental illness awareness. The lecture will be at Janssen R&D, LLC at 3210 Merryfield Row, San Diego. Doors open at 5:45 p.m. and lecture begins promptly at 6 p.m.

December 5th & December 12th

n National Comedy Theatre (NCT) presents The Collective is the National Comedy Theatre’s long form show. Like our regular shows, each Collective performance is completely improvised and is based entirely on audience suggestions. Performances feature five of NCT’s experience mainstage cast members improvising a full-length play around a single theme or storyline, from scratch. Shows are the first two Thursdays of each month at National Comedy Theatre, located at 3717 India Street. Tickets are $12 and performances begin at 7:30 p.m. For information, visit www.nationalcomedy.com.

December 6th

n Jazz guitarist Jacques Lesure groves into town with his organ trio featuring Ty Baillie on a real Hammond B3 at 8 p.m. at dizzy’s, at the showroom of San Diego Jet Ski Rentals, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive at Rosewood Street, on the Southern edge of Pacific Beach.

December 6th & 7th

n Festival of Trees event in the Casa del Prado at Balboa Park. This year’s theme is Holiday Celebrations Around the World. Trees are decorated by the county’s garden clubs and other non profits as well as some of the nurseries. Refreshments are served and proteas and gingerbread cookies will be for sale. Come vote for you favorite tree. Trees are later donated to assisted care facilities in the county. No reservations necessary. For information, call 619-232-5762.

December 6th thru 15th

n The Little Mermaid performed at the David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre by the Youth Theatre is a performance you will not want to miss. Call for pricing and hours 858-362-1348.

December 7th

n Charismatic, young Polish jazz vocalist Aga Zaryan with her trio Larry Koonse guitar, Darek Oles bass, & Efajemue Enenajor Jr Etoroma percussion, performs at 8 p.m. at dizzy’s at the showroom of San Diego Jet Ski Rentals, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive at Rosewood Street, on the Southern edge of Pacific Beach. n Tigers and Bears’ 2013 Christmas Festival is from noon to 4 p.m. at 24402 Martin Way, Alpine, CA. Show your support for the Big Cats and Bears during this holiday season. Watch your animal friends open their presents and do your holiday shopping all in one day. It’s a family funfilled day with lots of local vendors, food, entertainment and Santa Claus, Call to RSVP 619-659-8078 or visit www. lionstigersandbears.org. n 84th Candlelight Ball will kick off the holiday season at Grand Del Mar from 6 to 11 p.m. with proceeds to benefit lifesaving care at the Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla’s Prebys Cardiovascular Institute. This Black-tie gala features gourmet dining and festive music. Fee is $600.00, for information, visit www.scripps.org/giving.

December 7th thru 8th

n 6th Annual San Diego Pottery Tour 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. This free self-guided tour has 11 studio stops featuring over 30 of San Diego’s best ceramic artists. Visit www.sdpotterytour. com or call 619-286-1836 for a complete map of the tour.

December 9th

n David & Dorothea Garfield Theater, LFJCC at 7 p.m. presents Between to Stones and a Hard Place: The Challenge to Gender Equity & Pluralism in Israel. You’ve heard all about Women to the Wall, the equality they seek, and the controversy surrounding them. For information, call 858-362-1348.

December 10th

n Certified Sommelier Charlie Plummer from Jackson Estates will lead an exploration of six different winter red wine options, both domestic and international, and various foods that pair well with both at the Bean [Lawrence Family JCC] at 4126 Executive Dr., La Jolla from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Admission includes food and wine samples. Must be 21+. RSVP to Melanie Rubin by December 2: 858-362-1141 or melanier@lfjcc.com

December 11th

n Robin Henkel Band with Horns, and guest Whitney Shay at ArtLab Studios, from 8 to 10 p.m. at 3536 Adams Ave., Normal Heights. Call 619-283-1151 for information, all ages are welcome, by donation.

December 11th thru 22nd

n Historic Youth Ballet Brings the Nutcracker to Casa del Prado Theatre located in the cultural heart of Balboa Park

at 1800 Village Place, San Diego. Tickets are $10-15 visit www.sdcyb.tix.com for information.

December 12th

n Tis the Season for the Bicycle Coalition’s Holiday Joy Ride 3rd annual Holiday Ride gets festive in San Diego. Tickets are $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers. The colorful parade ride starts at 5:30 p.m. begins and returns to SILO in Makers Quarter (753 15th St.) for a hosted reception with beer donated by New Belgium Brewing. n Taste and Toast This Holiday Season at the Hillcrest Taste n’Tinis from 5 to 9 p.m. Take in the dazzling holiday decorations and embark on a self-guided walking tour of delightful drinks, delicious eats and fabulous retail shopping. Tickets for this savory soiree are $20 in advance and $25 on the day of the event. For information, visit www.FabulousHillcrest.com or call 619-233-5008.

December 13th

n Jazz pianist/composer Joshua White & his Quartet featuring Ben Schachter saxophone, Hamilton Price bass, & Dan Schnelle drums, will be at dizzy’s at 8 p.m. $15 cover (10 students) at the showroom of San Diego Jet Ski Rentals, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive at Rosewood Street, on the Southern edge of Pacific Beach.

December 14th

n An engaging evening of music from Spain & Eastern Europe from two gifted guitarists Fred Benedetti & George Svoboda will be at dizzy’s at 8 p.m. $10 cover at the showroom of San Diego Jet Ski Rentals, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive at Rosewood Street, on the Southern edge of Pacific Beach. n The Hillcrest Wind Ensemble will present a special Holiday Concert featuring “Rockin Around the Water Cooler,” a holiday musical play at 8 p.m. at the San Diego Woman’s Club, 2557 3rd. Ave in Bankers Hill. The ensemble will present traditional holiday classics along with music of Vienna celebrating the New Year. Tickets are $15 in advanced at the Windsmith at 3875 Granada Ave. in North Park, or $20 at the door. For information, visit www. hillcrestwindensemble.com or call 619-692-2077 ext 814. n Reuben H Fleet Science Center 1875 El Prado 12 – 2 p.m. Saturday Science Club for Girls: Chemistry of Cosmetics. Discover how chemists determine the ingredients for new cosmetics. Girls in grades 5-8 can join and mix up their own concoction to take home. Members $12, nonmembers $14: must pre-register by calling 619-238-1233 ext. 806. n West Lewis is holding Holidays in the Hills and Santa will be at Coldwell Banker, located at1621 West Lewis St., from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Meredith French, photographer, is offering free sittings with a purchase of a 4x6 electronic image. Refreshments will be served. Area businesses with be open late. n “Tis the Season for Shopping, Dining and Special Holiday Events in Old Town. Fiesta de Reyes and the Cosmopolitan Restaurant and Hotel are the ideal place to spend the holiday season. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park hosts Holiday in the Park. All of the museums, stores and restaurants in the park will be open and richly decorated. Guests will enjoy special holiday treats, activities and extended shopping hours along with strolling carolers on this evening until 8 p.m.

December 14 thru 15th

n The San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus (SDGMC) presents The Nutcracker (Men in Tights!). Tickets may be purchased at www.sdgmc.org or by calling 877-296-7664.

December 15th

n Expressive Arts, located at 3201 Thorn Street, invites you to Treat your Body, Mind & Spirit in this uplifting rhythm journey from 4 to 6 p.m. Discover peace in your inner rhythms, unleash your creative expression, and rock out in celebration with other women. Drums provided, or bring your own. Cost is $10 (or pay what you can). For information, visit http://EasierTeamwork. com or call 619-307-1003. n Robin Henkel Band with Horns and guest Whitney Shay perform at Lestat’s from 8 to 10 p.m. at 3343 Adams Ave., Normal Heights. Call 619-282-0437 for information, all ages are invited. Cover $8. n World jazz vocalist Allison Adams Tucker, Unplugged from the Beatles to Brazilian & Beyond – with guitarist Peter Sprague, percussionist Monette Marino, and bassist Bob Magnusson, will be at dizzy’s at 7 p.m. $15 cover at the showroom of San Diego Jet Ski Rentals, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive at Rosewood Street, on the Southern edge of Pacific Beach. n Tastes & Toasts to Support Art in Schools from 4 to 6 p.m. at 928 Orange Avenue, Coronado: Wine A Bit, sip, nibble and shop for fine wines from around the world and support ArtReach visual art education programs in K-6 schools countywide. Cost is $35 per ticket in advance; $40 at the door. For information, visit www.artreachsandiego.org or call 619-615-1093. n The Parade of Lights takes place on San Diego Bay at the historic ferryboat Berkeley at the Maritime Museum of San Diego located at 1492 North Harbor Drive. Enjoy a delicious holiday buffet and a no-host bar from 5 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $50 for adults and $25 for children ages 6-12 and can be purchased online at www.sdmaritime. org or by calling 619-234-9153 ext 101. Children under 5 are free. Tickets to the buffet and parade include museum admission. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots program. n The beloved Las Posadas procession with its centuriesold tradition is being celebrated in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park for the 63rd consecutive year. The Park Merchants Assoc. and Write Out Loud reenact the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph through the town of Bethlehem. The event begins at 2 p.m. with a musical pre-show in the start park, with the live theatrical procession starting promptly at 5 p.m. A piñata party and bonfire follow at 6 p.m. For information, visit www.oldtownmexicanfood.com or call 619-297-3100.

December 19th & 26th

n The National Comedy Theatre (NCT) MashUp show brings together unique teams with hilarious consequences. Each team gets to choose its own “format” so you never know what you might see, including long form musicals, to two people playing multiple characters, to competitive short form games premiering for the first time. NCT is located at 3717 India Street, San Diego, Admission is $12 online or at the door and performances begins at 7:30 p.m. For information, visit www.nationalcomedy.com.

December 20th

n G rammy Award-winning New York-based jazz trumpeter Brian Lynch returns with a smokin’ quartet and will perform at dizzy’s at 8 p.m. $20 cover at the showroom of San Diego Jet Ski Rentals, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive at Rosewood Street, on the Southern edge of Pacific Beach.

December 21st

n The Gonzalo Bergara Quartet – featuring Argentinean

guitar master Gonzalo Bergara, with Leah Zeger violin, Jeffrey Radaich rhythm guitar, & Brian Netzley upright bass, will be at dizzy’s at 8 p.m. $20 cover at the showroom of San Diego Jet Ski Rentals, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive at Rosewood Street, on the Southern edge of Pacific Beach.

December 21st thru 22nd

n The Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala’ Choir will present: The 37th annual Christmas Candlelight Meditation at 7:30 p.m. The Mission is located at 10818 San Diego Mission Road, San Diego. This year’s Candlelight presentation is seasonal music, both traditional and Carols anew, with an international flavor. Music is set around scripture reading of the season. A free will offering will be accepted, with a reception following program. For information, call 619-283-7319.

December 23rd & 27th

n Reuben H Fleet Science Center 1875 El Prado, San Diego – Rock & Roll Winter Camp. Start your winter vacation off with a BANG for Grades 1-2 and 3-4. Sign up for one or both days. Contact the Client Services Dept. at 619-2381233 ext 806. Members pay $45/day, nonmembers $50/day.

December 27th

n Reuben H Fleet Science Center 1875 El Prado, San Diego – Guitar Guru. Learn the science behind building guitars. Explore techniques that make guitars look and sound different. Use these tips and tricks to make your very own cardboard guitar.

December 27th

n W hitney Shay and Robin Henkel present an encore performance of the “Dirty Blues Show” with Sue Palmer at 98 Bottles at 7:30 p.m. Purchase tickets $12 online (www.98bottlessd.com/events/), $15 at door at 2400 Kettner Blvd., #110, San Diego. call 619-255-7885 for information. n Boston-based tenor saxophonist Brian Levy and friends will be at dizzy’s at 8 p.m. $15 cover at the showroom of San Diego Jet Ski Rentals, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive at Rosewood Street, on the Southern edge of Pacific Beach.

December 28th

n National Comedy Theatre, located at 3717 India Street, San Diego, Midnight Shows on the last Saturday of each month, beginning at 11:45 p.m. Content is appropriate for ages 16 and up. General admission for the Midnight Show is $10. For tickets, directions and more info, visit www.nationalcomedy.com. n Original music from Jazz Avenue, a sextet of young, driven, & talented musicians formed in 2009 at the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts (SDSCPA) will perform at dizzy’s at 8 p.m. Featuring Hiram Garza on keyboard, Chaz Cabrera on saxophone, Josh Vasquez on guitar, John Averyn saxophone, Marc Encabo on bass guitar, and Tyler Kreutel on drums, $15 cover at the showroom of San Diego Jet Ski Rentals, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive at Rosewood Street, on the Southern edge of Pacific Beach.

December 29th

n Whitney Shay and Robin Henkel perform from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Kona Kai Resort, 1551 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego. Call 619-295-9690 for information. n The National Comedy Theatre (NCT) College Team is improv by young, smart people for young, smart people. Performances are the last Sunday of each month at 9 p.m. at NCT, which is located at 3717 India Street, San Diego. The team is made entirely of college students, so expect college intelligence and college humor. Admission is $8 online or at the door. For information, visit www.nationalcomedy.com.

December 30th

n Winter Family Day takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Maritime Museum located on the North Embarcadero in downtown San Diego at 1492 North Harbor Drive. This special day all children will have the opportunity to create and take home an art project A 45 minute cruise on San Diego Bay aboard the historic Pilot boat is available for only $5 plus the cost of admission. For information, visit www.sdmaritime.org or call 619-234-9153.

December 30 – January 3rd

n Reuben H Fleet Science Center 1875 El Prado, San Diego – Young Engineers Winter Camp. Grab your hard hat and join us for full-day camps devoted to the science of engineering and construction. To register, please contact our Client Services Dept. at 619-238-1233, ext 806. Members $45/ day, nonmembers $50/day.

December 30th

n Reuben H Fleet Science Center 1875 El Prado, San Diego – Mega Structures. Use the KEVA planks in our “Block Busters” exhibition to design the tallest tower or build the longest bridge. Return to the classroom to build castles, boats and super-strong pyramids out of unexpected materials.

December 31st

n Reuben H Fleet Science Center 1875 El Prado, San Diego – Invention Day. Don’t miss the pre-New Year’s count down at noon– campers will invent their own noise makers and flashing devices to bring in the New Year.

December 30 thru January 3rd

n Reuben H Fleet Science Center at 1875 El Prado, San Diego offers Computer Programming Winter Camps. Students in grades 4-6 are invited to join a two weeklong, half-day camps devoted to computer programming, in partnership with ThoughtSTEM. Explore two different programming languages and approaches to computing. Sign up for morning, afternoon or both. To register, contact Client Services Dept. at 619-238-1233, ext. 806. Members $300/week, nonmembers $325/week.

December 31st

n N ational Comedy Theatre (NCT), located at 3717 India Street, San Diego, will present the company’s annual “New Years Eve Spectacular” performance. On this special evening, guests enjoy a catered buffet, a hilarious improv comedy performance, and a champagne toast at midnight. Guests also receive party favors, noisemakers and balloons to ring in the new year. Festivities begin at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $79 per person, making this one of San Diego’s less expensive New Years Eve events. Tickets must be purchased online in advance at www.nationalcomedy. com. Valet parking is available for a nominal fee.

Classified

Seniors, Children, Pets, House Sitting & More Great references and experience. Call Mr. Tom at 619-885-9605

•

DRIVER WANTED

•

Mission Hills resident seeks driver for Dr. appointments and various visits and trips around the city and county.

Call 619.341.3188

• STUDIO SPACE • Looking for a studio space to paint, draw or sculpt?

2,000 sq. /ft. artists’-op studio – one of SD best kept secrets. Market Street Group Members include students, amateur, professional artists Located in Little Italy, wooden floors, sky-lights, access to studio 24/7, working materials can be stored at studio, easels provided. Market Street Studio Group Studio founded 26 years ago. PROFESSIONAL LIFE MODELS 3 DAYS A WEEK INCLUDED! Monthly fee: $145 More information please contact: Kirby Kendrick kirby4004@aol.com phone: 505.660.4448

Mission Hills Newcomer Welcome Committee - to help with assembling, delivering Welcome Packages, collecting items from businesses to include, and arranging Newcomer Welcome Events. Call Ginny at 619.295.3904

Mission Hills Branch Library

December 2013 Events Signing Storytime

Dec. 02, 16 from 1:30 to 2:15 p.m. Twice a month, babies, toddlers, and preschoolers are invited to a fun storytime with sign language, singing, and bubbles.

Pajama Storytime

Dec. 10, 17, 19, 26 (Every Tuesday) from 6:30 to 7:00 p.m. Children are invited to an evening storytime with books and possibly singing and puppets. Feel free to come dressed in your pajamas.

LEGO Playtime

Dec. 04, 11, 18 (Every Wednesday) from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Kids can have fun and get creative while building with LEGOs.

Mission Hills Book Group

•AD SALES POSITION• Commissioned sales position for print, video and website ads. Join an exciting team and rapidly growing company. Sales experience preferred.

Call 619-481-9817

VIDEO PRODUCTION

Video production services from conception to final product. Call 619.296.8731

Gift Ideas...

WATERCOLOR PAINTING for Beginners

By Award Winning Instructor

• Great for Early Christmas Giving! • Adults & Children (6 to 10 years) • Separate Sessions • FOUR SATURDAY MORNINGS 10:00a.m.—12:00p.m

Liz Linderman

619.295.3583 9:00a.m.—7:00p.m. Only email: Owl1900 @cox.net

Dec. 05 from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. The Mission Hills Book Group will discuss “The Elephant’s Journey” by Jose Saramago. New members are always welcome to attend and participate! Please read the book beforehand. Books are available at the Circulation Desk while supplies last. This month’s meeting will be at Mission Hills Books & Collectibles at 4054 Goldfinch St.

Free Author Talk: “Soul Provider” by Jody Sims

Dec. 05 at 6:30 p.m. Author and artist Jody Sims will discuss her new book, “Soul Provider: Conversations with my Cat... A Survivor’s Journal,” which showcases the paintings she created while recovering from breast cancer.

Preschool Storytime

Dec. 06, 13, 20 (Every Friday) from 10:30 to 11:00 a.m. Children are invited to a fun storytime with books and possibly singing and puppets.

Children’s Craft Time

Dec. 07, 14, 21 (Every Saturday) at 10:30 a.m. Kids can develop their artistic skills while enjoying a fun craft time.

UNIVERSAL SPIRIT CENTER A Center for Spiritual Living

Rev. Kevin Bucy, Senior Minister 858 Front Street (at University and Front Streets) San Diego, CA 92103 Extra parking across the street at Florence School

www.universalspiritcenter.org.

(619) 291-4728

SUNDAY MORNING GATHERINGS 8:00 a.m. Meditative with full message 10:00 a.m. Music-filled gathering (with Youth Ministry available)

11:30 a.m. Music-filled gathering

Book Sale

Dec. 21 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Friends of the Mission Hills Branch Library will hold a book sale. Come by and stock up on books while supporting your Library.

Mission Hills Branch Library 925 West Washington Street San Diego, CA 92103 • 619.692.4910 www.facebook.com/mhlibrary

Wednesday Night Gathering at 7:00 p.m. every Wednesday

Put Your Name In Front of 35,000 Potential Customers! For more information, call 619.296.8731 www.PresidioSentinel.com