Volume 16, No. 12w
California Ballet Company presents
“The Nutcracker”
See article on page 13
64th Annual St. Nicholas Home Tour Highlights Views
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Lions, Tigers & Bears Rescues Exotic Animals
7
Point Loma Pop Warner’s Wins Conference Championship
12
“How The Grinch Stole Christmas!” Returns
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PresidioSentinel.com•
A Publication by Presidio Communications• ©MMXV
December 2015 Web Edition
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:
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Featured Stories
How Recent Social Security Changes Will Impact Retirement
Mission Hills Resident Earns Prestigious Award
Featured Events
9
17
Time Capsule Dedicated for 100th Anniversary
15
Christmas Arrives in Little Italy
13
Holiday Events in Old Town
14
Property Values & Historical Designations
18
San Diego Rep Theatre’s Love Interest Story
16
Grammy Award Winning Gospel Choir Performs in San Diego
20
“Boots on the Ground” by George Mitrovich
George Mitrovich is a San Diego civic leader. He may be contacted at: gmitro35@gmail.com.
Mine Eyes Have Seen George Mitrovich
ome you masters of war. You that build all the guns. Youthat build C the death planes. You that hide behind walls. You that hide behind desks. I just want you to know I cansee through your masks. ~ Bob Dylan
A couple of years back I spoke at a dinner of the Rotary Club in Weymouth, Massachusetts. As speeches go it was not my best. Since I am generally considered an accomplished public speaker (four speeches published in Vital Speeches of the Day), I can’t tell you why I came up short that night, but I did. But my disappointing performance, notwithstanding, I said in my speech something for the first time; said by design; something I have returned to many times since. That “something” is this: “If you live next door to a family with sons or daughters fighting in Iraq or Afghanistan but would oppose your sons or daughters fighting in Iraq or Afghanistan, you are guilty of moral duplicity.” I am willing to concede I am wrong about many things. I am not wrong about this. To support our troops fighting in faraway places in our world while opposing your sons or daughters in similar service to America defines moral duplicity. In the complexity of life I normally dismiss either/or choices; but this is not an either/or. This comes forcibly to mind amid our current presidential campaign; one that finds some arguing for America to put “boots on the ground” in the fight against ISIS in Iraq and Syria. The biggest hawk among Republican candidates pushing for U.S. Troops is South Carolina Senator Lindsay Graham, who has called for sending 20,000 to fight the fanatics of the Islamic State. On CBS’ Face the Nation, Senator Graham said, “President Obama’s strategy to destroy ISIS is failing miserably. You can’t do this from the air. The Kurds are not the ground component we need to go into Syria. Without Syria being fixed, you’re never going to fix Iraq. And they’re coming here.” In terms of troop numbers the senator’s proposal is the most radical; other
Republican candidates, however, have not come forward to join his call for such a dramatic break with American policy in the Middle East; but understand, they like his idea, even while refusing to embrace publicly his numbers. Former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, in what was promoted as a major foreign policy speech at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, called for a more vigorous response to ISIS, saying, “more U.S. troops may well be needed.” Dan Roberts and Lauren Gambino in the Guardian of England, reporting on a speech Hillary Clinton gave before the Council on Foreign Relations in New York, wrote, “She is distancing herself from Barack Obama’s strategy for defeating Islamic State extremists”, wanting, they implied, “greater use of American ground troops and an intensified air campaign. “Though ruling out deploying the tens of thousands of U.S. troops seen in Iraq and Afghanistan, the former of secretary of state made clear she would take a notably more hawkish approach than the current administration if she is elected president.” “The United States has been conducting this fight for more than a year, it’s time to begin a new phase and intensify and broaden our efforts”, she said. Even though the foreign policy establishment gave the secretary high marks for her speech, it was sufficiently nuanced to provide, were she president, options to broaden and increase our military presence in a place where 4,487 sons and daughters of American mothers and fathers, husbands and wives, brothers and sisters, family and friends, have already died in defense of, we’re told, our freedom. Any proposal calling for additional American troops in Iraq–remember we already have 3,500 working now with Iraqi military and the Kurds–is alarming to me.
Continued on page 10 PresidioSentinel.com
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Local News
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
©
All S ouls’
Saint Nicholas Home Tour
A Point Loma Holiday Tradition celebrates its 64th year this December. Begin your holiday season with friends and family on a tour of four Point Loma homes. The All Souls’ Saint Nicholas Home Tour is happening on Saturday, December 5, 2015 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This year the theme is “A View From Point Loma.” The tour starts at All Souls’ Episcopal Church, 1475 Catalina Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92107. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $30 and the day of the event for $35. Each home on the tour has a unique view of Point Loma from Sunset Cliffs and La Playa Cove to Downtown San Diego and San Diego Bay. Get a rare look inside San Diego’s most beautiful homes and support local community programs. The homes have undergone extensive renovations by the current owners and, in addition to breathtaking views, contain unique collections of art. As part of the tour, guests are welcome to stop by All Souls’ Episcopal Church to shop for handcrafted treasures and homemade delicacies at the Saint Nicholas Marketplace from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The homes on the tour have undergone extensive renovations by the current owners and have breathtaking views. Enjoy a tasty lunch at the Saint Nicholas Café from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tour the church campus to see The All Souls’ historic collection of art and artifacts then relax in the Saint Nicholas Tea Room. Don’t miss the opportunity drawing. The funds raised benefit many local community assistance programs, including the Peninsula Shepherd Senior Center, Episcopal Church Center, Maseno Hospital (Kenya) and the Loaves and Fishes food pantry. Tickets are available for purchase online at www.all-souls.com and are December 12th, 2015 also available at All Soul’s Episcopal Church, Walter Andersen Nursery, To Toys for Tots Toy Drive the Point Café, Mission Hills Nursery and Ace Hardware. (Bring an Unwrapped Toy) For information, contact All Souls’ Episcopal Church, 1475 Catalina Boulevard San Diego, CA 92107; 619.223.6394, www.all-souls.com.•
l Children’s Coalit 2nd Annua ion Saturday
A Point Loma Tradition
All Souls’ Episcopal Church Present the 64th
Honorary Event Chair Paul Schmidt, Chairman
SD Community Christmas Center
Christmas Tree Concert Saturday, Nov 28th 4:30pm to 8:30pm SanDiegoChristmas.org
“A View from Pt. Loma”
Children’s San Diego
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
American Culture Council Coalition
SATURDAY DECEMBER 5, 2015
Investing in Children
Family & Community
Café 11:30 am – 2:30 pm Marketplace 12:00 – 4:00 pm Tea 1:00 - 4:00 pm
1475 Catalina Blvd
(619) 223-6394
Tickets: $30 Day of Event: $35
Purchase Tickets at: All Souls’ Church, Ace Hardware, Walter Andersen Nursery, To The Point Café, Mission Hills Nursery or online at www.all-souls.com Exchange ticket for map Nov. 30-Dec. 5 9:00 am-4:00 pm at: All Souls’ Church 1475 Catalina Blvd. San Diego, Ca. 92107
SAN DIEGO ARTS.org
San Diego Arts Foundation
Christmas OnthePrado.com Bring the Entire Family!
San Diego Children’s Coalition
2nd Annual Christmas on the Prado! Saturday, Dec 12th 2015 4pm to 8pm
Spreckles Organ Pavilion Balboa Park
Christmas Music | Entertainment | Kids Zone | Photos w/ Santa A NEW Family Friendly Charity Event - Not Affiliated with December Nights
PresidioSentinel.com
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
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Local News
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A Little Generosity Can Go a Long Way
This Christmas Season
by Patty Ducey-Brooks
Recently I was reminded that during the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, we forget that there are those in our communities who are alone and have little to appreciate. There are low-income seniors throughout our communities who are often forgotten during this time of year. Many are in poor health and struggling financially. This can be a very difficult time of the year for them. I am suggesting we make a difference. We should all participate in providing a “stocking stuffer” for San Diego seniors who do not have much to celebrate this holiday season. St. Paul’s Senior Services has been serving seniors in the San Diego community for 55 years and includes residential communities in Bankers Hill and Eastlake. They offer Memory Care, Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing and Independent Living. Senior Day and an Intergenerational Program are also located in the Bankers Hill area. St. Paul’s Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), located in Chula Vista and Downtown San Diego, directly assist low income seniors and medically fragile seniors who need support to continue living at home. St. Paul’s Senior Services is providing us a means to help spread the good-will and cheer by donating everyday items to their low-income seniors this holiday season. A little can go a long way. Here are some of the suggested items that are needed by St. Paul’s PACE Seniors:
• Toilet Paper • Shampoo/Soaps • Pillows • Sheets/Blankets • Bag/Purse • Stamps/Envelopes • Journal/Notebook • Soft food items • Dried and canned foods
Donations can be dropped off in the lobby of St. Paul’s Senior Services and PACE locations:
St. Paul’s Senior Services 328 Maple Street 619.239.6900
PACE Downtown San Diego 111 Elm Street 619.677.3800
For more information on St. Paul’s Senior Services or additional information on St. Paul’s Senior Services and PACE Program, visit www.stpaulseniors.org/ or call 619.239.6900. Donations will be collected through December 18. Please donate generously and know that you’ve made a difference. And, remember, a little generosity can go a long way this Christmas Season.•
SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT NEIGHBORHOOD DAY You’ve probably noticed the new Rental Car Center taking shape as you’ve driven by on Pacific Highway. It’s almost complete, and we’re giving our neighbors the opportunity to join us for a “behind-the-scenes” tour before it opens to the public.
LOCATION: Rental Car Center at San Diego International Airport 3355 Admiral Boland Way San Diego, CA 92101
DATE: Thursday, January 14, 2016 TIME: 1-3 p.m. & 5-7 p.m.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Please contact Peggy Cooper at pcooper@san.org.
PresidioSentinel.com
6 Startled
Local News
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
©
Not Scared
by Ilene Hubbs
I was 15 when I fell under the spell of the theater. It was the last day of the run and after that the play was going on to Broadway. In those days, new plays often went to tryout cities before they opened on Broadway, and Philadelphia was one of those cities. My school had received a block of free tickets to give to students and when the announcement was made, I was first in line. I had performed in school productions and loved the whole concept of theater. The play was “The Diary of Anne Frank,” a story about a girl close to my age, a Jewish girl who was trying to survive in Nazi occupied Amsterdam, a girl I could easily relate to. I remember vividly that first experience of walking into a theater, taking my seat and waiting excitedly for the magic to begin. I was not disappointed; it was all that I hoped for. The story, the theater itself, the fellow theater lovers surrounding me, it truly was magic. From the opening lines to final curtain calls, I was smitten and that love affair just grew and grew into my adult years, into my years raising children and continues to this day, as I joyfully share that experience with my grandchildren. My sons, who are approaching middle age, still reminisce about their first experiences with mom at the theater. Most vivid in the memories of both of them is the time I took them to a small theater in town to see “The Snow Queen.” They remind me of that cold winter day, when the theater was not much warmer and we sat on bean bags that took the place of seats. They laugh and tease me, but they do remember, and that’s what I hold dear. As grandkids came along, I could not wait until each one was old enough to appreciate that same joy. I wanted their first theater experience to be with me. I wanted that feeling that comes with exposing something I love to children. I hoped they will share that same feeling. Here in San Diego we have something perfect for a child’s first theater outing. We have “The Grinch” every Christmas season at the Old Globe. I waited until the first two grandkids were three and five and it was all I could hope for. The three-year old sat in awe asking over and over when the movie will begin. Her savvy older brother tried to explain that these were real people we were going to see, not a movie, but she could not fathom that until the magic began. From that moment on, they too were hooked. He was an audience member, she was a participant, acting in school plays, and a summer of junior theater. Years’ later, grandchild number
PresidioSentinel.com
Patty Ducey-Brooks Publisher
Ilene Hubbs Associate Editor
Michal A. Tuzinkiewicz Creative Director
Phyllis E. Zawacki Graphic Designer
Contributing Writers Blake Beckcom Rick Brooks Melody Brown Ian Campbell Richard Cone Cath DeStefano Violet Green Barry Hager Ilene Hubbs David Kamatoy Philip C. Lee Alice Lowe Aubree Lynn George Mitrovich David Rottenberg The Grinch startled grandchild number four. The annual holiday musical, “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” runs through Dec. 26, 2015 at The Old Globe. Photo by Jim Cox
three shared the family love of watching a play, and last year my youngest and last grandchild had her first taste of “The Grinch.” We sat in the center, her on the aisle and me in the middle, in between them both, so I could feel their excitement equally. “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” is almost interactive as the characters file up and down the aisles, singing and dancing, close enough to touch for lucky kids who sat nearby. At one point the Grinch was running up the aisle we sat on, when suddenly he stopped, turned to my little granddaughter and said “grrrrr.”
She jumped, a little scared and a lot delighted, another theater lover in the making. After the play, she couldn’t stop talking about how the Grinch scared her at first. I reminded her that this was just a man in a costume, sort of like a Halloween costume. When she accepted what I told her she was not scared, she was startled and used that as a teaching moment to learn another word. Now, in the days leading up to this year’s outing to “The Grinch,” it makes me smile when she tells me “I won’t be scared this time, Gramma, I will only be startled.•
• WE RECYCLE OUR WATER •
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. 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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A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
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Animal News
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Lio ns Tigers & Bears
Rescues Six Exotic Animals
Hope is a six-year old, female, Dutch-mix bunny. Easy-going and quite lovable, this pretty lady is always thrilled to spend quality time with her people friends. In her previous home, she was around dogs and children and did well with both. She also loves munching on green veggies and hay, and getting her exercise– she’s been known to leap, skip and jump into the air. Hope is currently located at the San Diego Humane Society, Oceanside Campus for Cats & Small Animals, located at 572 Airport Road, Oceanside, CA 92058. To learn more about Hope, call 760.757.4357. Charger is a sweet and friendly, five-year old, American Staffordshire terrier. He is the dog of choice for many off-site community events where he is always wiggly and social, and will even roll over for belly rubs. He has also received his Canine Ambassador certificate for completing the student-led Teaching Respect Using Sympathy and Training (TRUST) program. Charger also loves car rides, walks well on leash, and enjoys snuggling. Aside from one canine BFF, Charger greatly prefers people to other dogs, so we would recommend he be the only doggie in the home. Come on by and meet this amazing pooch– he can’t wait to steal your heart. (Somebody loves Charger so much that they sponsored his adoption fee.) Charger is neutered and has current vaccinations, permanent microchip identification, 30 days of worry-free medical insurance from Trupanion Insurance, a certificate for a free veterinary exam, and a license if residing in Oceanside, Vista, Escondido, San Marcos or Poway. Charger is available for adoption at the San Diego Humane Society’s San Diego Campus at 5500 Gaines Street. To learn more about making him part of your family, call 619.299.7012
For more information on Hope, call 760.757.4357
Animals are safely en route to find refuge at sanctuaries
Bobbi Brink, founder and director of Lions Tigers & Bears (LTB), an accredited big cat, bear and exotic animal rescue sanctuary, in San Diego. California, and her team are making a 5,000 mile round trip journey to rescue and provide transport to six exotic animals, including four tigers from Ohio. The animals are en route to reputable sanctuaries in Nevada and California. “We are happy to be able to provide these animals with a second chance.” states Brink, in regards to this cross-country rescue. The four tigers were surrendered as a result of state legislation in Ohio, SB 310, which regulates the private ownership of exotic animals. One of the tigers, a white tiger, is being transported to Safe Haven Wildlife Sanctuary in Imlay, Nevada, while the three other exotic felines will be calling The Shambala Preserve in Acton, Calif. their new home. This rescue is the third rescue mission in three consecutive months for LTB. LTB is the only accredited sanctuary in the United States that has a fully self-contained animal transport hauler with features including: onboard first aid (for both animals and humans), an anesthesia machine, running water, air-conditioning, fans, tools, capture equipment and safety transport cages. This hauler is the safest and least stress-inducing way to transport inherently dangerous wild animals like lions, tigers and bears. Since 2012, Brink and her rescue team have successfully relocated over 60 captive big cats (lions, tigers, cougars) and bears out of Ohio, to reputable sanctuaries across the United States, more than any other sanctuary or transporter. Each animal was provided baseline medical examinations and transport to lifetime homes at reputable sanctuaries. Lions Tigers & Bears (LTB) is a federally and state licensed non-profit 501(c)(3) rescue facility dedicated to providing a safe haven to abused and abandoned exotic animals while inspiring an educational forum to end the exotic animal trade. LTB is one of few sanctuaries in the United States with the highest level of accreditation from the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries and the American Sanctuary Association. For more information or to make a donation to help care for the animals at LTB, visit www.LionsTigersAndBears.org or call 619.659.8078.•
For more information on Charger, call 619.299.7012
SPCA
Not to be combined with any other offer. Not good for boarding, bathing, grooming, pet food and prescription and non-prescription drugs. Expires 12.32.2015
The animals are safely contained in a state of the art Animal Transport Hauler.
PresidioSentinel.com
8
Lifestyle
Prepare Your Body for
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
©
Optimal Winter Performance
Pre- & Post-Workout Stretching
by Blake Beckcom
Tight muscles, cramped joints and a lethargic body is not how you want to ring in this winter season. Instead, prepare your body for winter exercise by introducing stretching into your overall health and fitness routine. Don’t worry, you don’t have to schedule tons of time to make stretching beneficial and effective. Ten minutes will do the trick. Start with the Basics When incorporating stretching into your workout, you should take a two-phased approach. The first phase should focus on preparing your body, joints, heart and lungs for a dynamic workout, while the second phase should focus on cooling down your muscles and preparing your body for an active recovery following your workout. In essence, it is most effective to sandwich your strength and conditioning workout routine with two short, but effective, active stretching routines. Phase One–Warm Up & Dynamic Stretch If touching your toes and taking deep breaths to start your workout is your idea of warming up and stretching, then you are missing out on an excellent opportunity to set yourself up for a great workout. According to research by The National Strength and Condition Association, passive static stretching can lead to reduced performance when compared to an active, dynamic warm-up alone. A great workout starts with a great warm-up so the first step to an active warm-up that is going to increase your performance is spending a few minutes on a foam roller. The purpose of the foam roller is to provide soft tissue flexibility in preparation for a more fluid and free-moving workout. The few minutes it takes to foam roll will pay dividends for the remainder of your fitness session. After you’ve established more flexible muscles with the foam roller, the next step is to prepare your body for elevating heart rates and getting down to business. The warm-up should not be easy. It should start easy, but then progress to the point that when you’re finished five minutes later, you’re ready to go full steam ahead into your workout. A dynamic warmup should include explosive movements such as high knees, skipping and moving lunges. It is important to remember that the purpose of these types of exercises is to prepare your joints and ligaments for the high intensity
The Vulnerability of by Sabine Starr
portion of your workout. Make sure not to push yourself too hard, but instead focus on starting slow and revving up your body for an effective and dynamic workout. Phase Two–Cool Down & Recovery After you’ve left all of your effort, sweat and tears on the gym floor during your high intensity strength and conditioning workout, it is now time to take three to five minutes to incorporate some light stretching and cool down techniques to finish off your fitness routine. The purpose of this stretching phase is to loosen up any knots that might build up in your muscle fibers during your workout and prepare Blake & Gwen Beckcom. your body for proper recovery that will last hours after your workout has ended. It is important to stretch the major muscle groups you exercised during your workout and to focus on any problem spots that you may have. Some simple, but highly effective cool down and recovery stretches include the child’s pose, lower leg lunge stretches and the cat stretch for your back and shoulders. If stretching is typically an after-thought for you during your workouts, focus on incorporating these ten minutes of pre- and post-workout stretches this winter to prepare your body for optimal performance during and after your workouts.• 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.
a New Mother
Pregnant and having a baby for the first time results in a very steep learning curve. There is so much to know. Each of many phases last only a short time before the next comes with more things to know and decisions to make. On top of that, everything changes once that tiny being is completely dependent on his/her mother (this is especially noticeable if she is breast feeding and/or a single parent). New moms are the one group that can be easily scared by people of authority, like a medical doctor or other moms with several kids, possibly already grown up. They all seem to “know” and to know better. And the one thing every mom wants to avoid is being called a “bad” or “irresponsible” mother. It is so easy to make statements without facts and explanations that gnaw on the new mom´s self-esteem. What to do? How to handle this delicate situation? It is very important for the new mom to choose sources of information wisely, since this vulnerability threatens to cut her off from her mom instincts. Any mother truly knows her baby best. She spends the most time with her offspring and has a special bond. It is a true shame if any person in the
PresidioSentinel.com
circle of the mom wants to influence her beyond caring and supportive fact-providing. Any mother might remember the moment she spoke up for the first time against some well-meaning advice giver or some mainstream, treatment selling doctor appearing to shame her. That is the moment she truly became a mother. This means taking as much as possible, reviewing all the facts to her own understanding of the situation, the baby, as well as her own life experiences, and then making a decision. It is excruciating to have to make so many decisions for another little person that she loves so much, way beyond the love for herself. We decide for ourselves and are ready to put up with the consequences. But having our baby live with the consequences of our decisions can be an incredibly difficult experience, especially if the outcome is not as we had hoped. We decide and our innocent child pays. That does not seem fair, but it is part of being a mother and of raising a child. What can be applied to other situations as well is for the new mom (or anyone in a new situation who is vulnerable to criticism and unsolicited advice) is to make sure to stay connected with oneself and with the situation at hand, and the overall desired outcome or goal. So if you are an experienced “old timer” and encounter an absolute beginner,
Sadie Jakoba Starr’s little feet is provided by Natalie Fiocre Photography.
please, don´t give unsolicited advice. At most, ask ahead if an observation or piece of advice would be appreciated. If the answer is no, respect the answer. Keep the piece of wisdom to yourself and instead return to enjoy the person and the situation. Remember to leave room for the beginner to grow. By respecting the individual’s space, it leaves the door open for them to get support from you in their own time,
when they are ready. We all can learn from each other, but shaming and belittling will certainly not lead to learning or improvement. It is worth the exercise in restraint to allow the “rookie” to face her own fears and stay connected to her own intuition. This same intuition will let us know when we need to seek advice–and from whom.•
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
©
Recent Social Security Changes
Business News
9
Will Affect Couples Nearing Retirement
by Rick Brooks The federal Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015 came as a mixed blessing for Baby Boomers who are at or near retirement. While the deal passed by Congress in late September avoided an ugly political fight and government shutdown, it also dramatically altered some beneficial Social Security optimization strategies for married couples who are near retirement. The strategy known as file-and-suspend has been all but eliminated for people who haven’t yet reached Full Retirement Age. This is a meaningful setback for couples that were planning on the big income boost that a file-and suspend strategy provided later in retirement. What impact will this have on your retirement plan? And how can you best plan around this development? What has changed Under the rules existing since 2000, when a worker reached full retirement age, typically 66, he or she could file for Social Security benefit eligibility and
Stylish &
simultaneously suspend his or her benefits. This allowed that worker’s spouse to start receiving spousal benefits (equal to 50 percent of the worker’s retirement benefit). Dependent children could also be eligible to receive benefits. The spouse could also delay receiving his or her own eligible benefits until age 70. At the same time, by suspending his or her benefits, the worker’s benefits could continue to increase by eight percent for each year until reaching age 70, at which time he or she would begin to receive the full increased benefits. This allowed a retired couple to significantly (and permanently) increase the amount they would receive over their lifetimes from Social Security. This strategy was particularly helpful when the worker’s spouse could receive a higher spousal benefit than he or she would be entitled to on his or her own work record. Under the new rules, which go into effect April 30, 2016, suspension of benefits will no longer be permitted. This means that if a spouse decides to delay benefits, the other spouse will
not be able to start receiving spousal income based on the first spouse’s full age benefit during that delay period. What Hasn’t Changed A person can still delay retirement benefits and receive the eight percent growth in benefits. Those increased benefits will still be for the life of that person, and that increased benefit will still be payable to an eligible surviving spouse as a survivor benefit. In addition, someone who files to receive their benefits early can still “change their mind” and suspend their benefits to allow them to grow until age 70. How You Can Plan for the Changes If you are already taking Social Security, then these changes should not impact you at all. Those who will reach full retirement age by April 2016 and have not yet begun taking Social Security benefits should consider the file and suspend strategy before they lose the opportunity to do so. Not taking advantage of this strategy could mean losing as much as $60,000 in benefits over a four-year-period. For people born between April 30, 1950 and
January 1, 1954, the planning is a bit more complex. For those born after January 1 1954, this strategy is simply no longer available. It’s also important to note that the way the law is written could unintentionally limit an unmarried divorced person from claiming a social security benefit based on the ex-spouse’s record if the ex-spouse suspends his or her own Social Security benefits. A Certified Financial Planner™ Professional can help you to figure out how these changes may impact you, and help you to adjust your retirement income strategy if necessary.•
This column is prepared by Rick Brooks, CFA®, CFP®. Brooks is director and chief investment officer with Blankinship & Foster, LLC, a wealth advisory firm specializing in comprehensive financial planning and investment management. Brooks can be reached at 858.755.5166, or by email at brooks@bfadvisors. com. Brooks and his family live in Mission Hills.
Pregnant
by Aubree Lynn, Stylist/Writer/Producer There is a way to still look cute and stylish while being pregnant. Even for me as a stylist, I have had a little more of a challenging time with this endeavor. My body is changing so fast and each week I am not as small as I once was. However, I have found ways to make the bump look cute even in that awkward beginning of the second trimester when I didn’t quite look pregnant but I definitely looked like I just ate a big Thanksgiving meal. All I have to say is get your flow on, flowy tops, even baby doll cuts work. This summer it has been so hot so getting away with the loose tops has been great. When you are hitting your 1618th week or so you are no longer able to fit in your jeans, even the good old hair tie around the button trick isn’t working as your baby is starting to kick. My suggestion is, rely on dresses, cotton skirts and leggings. These have become my go to items. I have given up trying to fit into most of my regular clothing. A helpful tip is to ask your girlfriends who just had a baby if they are willing to let you borrow any of their maternity clothing. Luckily for me, I happened to have a friend who did. This is a chance to enjoy someone else’s style and add your own flare to the ensemble. My friend introduced me to the pregnant lady pants and shorts that hug your belly. I absolutely LOVE them. Shopping with your belly in mind, here are some options: Target offers longer tanks. They even have cute ribbed sweater dresses for fall
that are stylish and comfortable. H and M has some great maternity jeans (straight legged) and leggings that work well with most of your fall/winter items, including sweaters, dresses or longer tops. Pea in the Pod is pricey; but if you go to the clearance section, you can find simple and stylish dresses that can last even after the baby is here. This is accomplished by belting and tucking the fabric. Motherhood has very comfortable and stylish clothing and even designer brands. Check out their sleep, active, and start looking for nursing wear items. My suggestion is to go first to the sales section. You always want the best deals, and if you are like me, it is hard to go shopping and not have a full wardrobe just for your bump. So you might tend to buy a little more each time. Cool thing is you can still mix and match with what you already have in your current wardrobe. Just stick to the basics and pull in some cute dresses and maternity pants here and there. Then, voilà, you have a wardrobe for the last few months of pregnancy, even when you start to get too big to see your own shoes. As for me, I am not there yet, but I know once I am I will be heading to these stores to purchase some sale items that I will love. At this time I want to thank my event pregnancy style crew. Since I have been carrying my little one, these fabulous people have done their part to make me look and feel gorgeous for some special events. I am blessed to have SellWithDon .com Oseas Villatorro design Dunn, REALTORS some great pieces for Don Schmidt me. And, I am grateful Broker Associate, SFR • CA BRE# 01347868 Historic and Architectural Specialist for jewelry by the great Art Rivas. I can’t forget 858.274.DUNN ext. 220 (3866) Diana Delzio from Diana Delzio Photography. She photographed ®
Aubree Lynn is wearing an Oseas Villatorro design and jewelry by Art Rivas. Photograph is by Diana Delzio Photography.
me wearing these fabulous designer pieces for Fashion Week San Diego. I felt beautiful while pregnant. My point is you still can look and feel beautiful while your body is changing and shifting. Though it is not the most comfortable experience, it’s great to have helpful tips to know where to shop, and how to feel your best while growing a little human inside of you.•
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So Much to
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
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Celebrate
by Troy Curnett, President, Mission Hills Business Improvement District
REALTOR® and broker/owner of the boutique real estate office, One Mission Realty
When I mention how quickly this year has flown by, I’m reminded by family, friends and colleagues that the older one gets the more quickly each year passes. I can’t be that old! The good news is as this year comes to a close we have much for which to be thankful and much more to look forward to in 2016, including sharing the business of the Mission Hills Business Improvement District (MHBID) with you each month through this column. On November 4, 2015 I was elected BID president at its Annual Meeting along with the re-election of The KenGina Team, Ascent Real Estate, Inc’s Tom Curl as vice president; Scott and Quinn Real Estate’s Krista Lombardi as secretary; and Chase Bank’s Patti Yap as treasurer. Stuart White of Stuart White Design and Terry Parks of Washington West Hair Studio were re-elected to the board of directors, joined by Patterson Engineering, Inc’s Audrey Patterson who was elected to her first term. I am pleased to be a part of this great team.
Having previously served as an active member of the MHBID and on its board of directors, I accepted the torch pass from Trish Watlington, immediate past president of the MHBID. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Trish, owner of the Red Door and The Wellington, for her tireless service as president to the MHBID and the community over the past two years. I know I have big shoes to fill and I also know I need your help. If you own a business in the Mission Hills Business Improvement District, I invite you to join in the important work and the informative fun at the BID committee meetings on the first Wednesday of each month and the BID board of directors meetings on the third Wednesday of each month. Please visit our website at www. MissionHillsBID.com/meetingsand-agendas for meeting locations and times. Over the years I have met many of you and for those I have not met, I’d like to share a little about my journey. My hope is to inspire your involvement with the MHBID. My background is diverse beginning with a degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Arizona. My first career was
Boots Continued from page 3 It doesn’t matter the presidential candidate, I will oppose as immoral any such policy, unless national subscription is included. The war in Iraq and Afghanistan have been fought by one percent of our people; many of whom have done, not one or two tours of duty, but four, five and six. But while 6,840 men and women and their families have paid the ultimate price in those two distant countries, 99 percent of the rest of us have paid no price; living our lives as if the world were at peace. But the world is not at peace, as 3,039 young Americans, ages 2024, and another 1,666, ages 25-29, in the flower of their youth, have discovered; their dreams destroyed in the burning sands of Iraq and in the cold, icy mountains and plains of Afghanistan–dead from bullets, bombs, and IEDs. But while those 4,705 were defending and dying, 70-million of their peers, ages 20-29, were pursuing their hopes and dreams. Numbers that do not include the tragic fact that more than 540,000 Iraq and Afghanistan veterans suffer from Post Dramatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), or the more than 8,000 veterans who commit suicide every year after their return to civilian life. (See: veteransandptsd.com/PTSD-statistics.html.) And it all began because two draft dodgers, George W. Bush and Dick Cheney, lied to the American people about “weapons of mass destruction”; and started a war without end that has killed hundreds of thousands (Iraqi and U.S.) and gave the world, ISIS; from which has resulted a massive immigration crisis in Europe and terrorist attacks in Paris and Mali, and God knows where it will end–if it will end. In the argument I made that night in Weymouth, and have made many times since, I have yet to find anyone in disagreement that sending some young men and women to fight our wars while giving millions more a pass, is immoral–and stands as an indictment against America our professed beliefs. The requirement through national subscription that every young man and woman at age 18 would give two years in service to America, would likely end the idiocy of thinking we can save the world when only one percent of us are committed to that goal; when only one percent of us wholly believe in its mission. While you and me are safe at home (for now); safe while ”hiding behind our walls”, safe while “hiding behind our desks,” but others know a different reality–the reality of never coming home again.•
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working for Boeing Advanced Systems Industrial Engineering department in Seattle, Washington. Our project at that time was the B-2 Stealth Bomber. I then moved to San Diego to embark on a 10 year career in the pet industry. For the first five years I owned and operated a neighborhood pet store. After the pet store, I worked for the Petco Corporation as a merchandising buyer. Traveling the globe purchasing product for corporate America was fun and exciting, but ultimately I grew tired of traveling for work. I left Petco to pursue a career in real estate which I have thoroughly enjoyed for 15 years. I obtained my broker’s license in 2007 and chose to open my own brokerage, One Mission Realty, in Mission Hills in 2010. My earnest participation in the MHBID began with a stop-by visit from the BID’s executive director. I asked several questions and agreed to attend a MHBID meeting. Prior to being willing to attend just one meeting, I had no idea how many important topics in which the MHBID has a voice. From banner signs to parking solutions to the planning of events like the Taste
of Mission Hills, the MHBID seeks your valued input. The month of December is a festive time and extends to my home and workplace. For so many reasons—live, work, play, relax— Mission Hills is the perfect place to be during the holidays, and all year long. As I make my holiday plans I am reminded, and wish to remind you, our neighborhood of businesses are filled with treasures for all occasions, in all price ranges, for all ages. Please remember our Mission Hills businesses before, during and after the holidays by shopping local. As our banners say, Shop the Holidays and Taste the Holidays in Mission Hills. Your support makes all the difference! From the Mission Hills BID to you, best wishes for a joyous holiday season and a prosperous 2016.• Trish Watlington Owner The Red Door Restaurant The Wellington Steak & Martini Lounge
HOLI DAY
IN THE HILLS PLEASE JOIN COLDWELL BANKER & THE WEST LEWIS STREET SHOPPES
F O R A F E S T I V E B LO C K PA R T Y time: 5PM-8PM date: SATURDAY, DECEMBER 12 th
ENJOY LIVE MUSIC, FOOD TRUCKS & FABULOUS SHOPPING! V I S I T T H E C O L DW E L L BA N K E R O F F I C E f r o m 5 : 3 0 - 8 : 0 0 f o r P H OTO S W I T H S A N TA by local photographer MEREDITH FRENCH
TOYS FOR TOTS PLEASE BRING AN UNWRAPPED TOY TO COLDWELL BANKER TO DONATE TO THE U.S. MARINE CORPS PROGRAM Two Marines will be present to accept your gifts
Selling, Buying or Investing! Contact Maureen & Antoinette 619.800.1103
’t “ We D o n
J u s t S e ll H o m e s, We S e l l N e i g h b o r h o o d s
Maureen & Antoinette CA BRE License #01217712 & #01305747
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage 1621 W. Lewis Street, San Diego, CA 92103
619.800.1103 | www.MissionHillsColdwellBanker.com
”
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
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To Clean or
Lifestyle
11
Not to Clean
by Barb Stron What is it about having to clean a house that makes me tired? I suspect it may be my propensity toward procrastination. If I go into the kitchen to clean the stove, oven, fridge, counter tops, sink, floors, etc., I first notice the refrigerator. How can I clean it if I don’t organize it first? Everything comes out of the fridge. Expired stuff (most of it) goes in the garbage disposal, and the rest sits on the counter. Each shelf and drawer goes into the sink. Then the inside needs washing. After the entire inside of the refrigerator has been disinfected and polished, the shelves and drawers and remaining foodstuffs are cleaned and put back in what I consider a logical order. The door’s shelves are organized: foreign sauces on this shelf, American condiments on another, jams and jellies on another. However, the kitchen looks worse than before I began. Oops! The cupboards are a mess. Once more everything is unloaded (usually a shelf at a time). But the canisters need to be cleaned and thoroughly dried. Bags need to be set into new closable baggies. Shelves need to be washed. There is now a plethora of empty containers whose contents have either been tossed or combined with other partially full containers. Once the foodstuffs have been dealt with, it’s time to deal with Tupperware, Snapware, Glad, and
Zip. Naturally none of these are with its proper lid. How do people keep this stuff organized? Once more, my counters are full of mismatched storage containers. By the time all the drawers and cupboards are in perfect order, the day is over and the kitchen still needs to be cleaned. This procrastination is true for every room in the house. Bathroom needs cleaning? First organize the towels and bath items. This is almost identical to cleaning the kitchen except the bathroom is smaller. It still may take an entire day with nary a toilet or basin or tub cleaned let alone the floor. Oh, the scale is dirty—perfect time to recalibrate it—where are the directions? Another day has passed. The floors are coated in fluffy rag-doll cat hair. There are probably a few hairballs as well. The furniture is lumpy, hair-covered and has smudges of who knows what: feet or food? It is impossible to vacuum without reduct-taping its broken hose, which takes time. I will do anything to avoid actually cleaning. Sweeping, dusting, washing windows, scouring. . . all are anathema to me. But do let me re-arrange your closets. I’ll organize your drawers, your cabinets, your refrigerator…all in a logical, easy to maintain (sort of) manner. Just please, don’t make me clean. There is no Mission Hills Garden Club meeting in December. Meanwhile, enjoy the holiday season, and do renew your Mission Hills Garden Club Membership.•
Mismatched storage containers fill many of our cupboards.
I Wish You a
Peaceful
DAYLIGHT SAVINGS ENDS
Holiday Season November 1 at 2:00 AM
Filled with Love and Compassion And have a very Happy Thanksgiving! If you plan to sell, list now while inventory and interest rates for All... Set your clocks back one hour
are s�ll low! Please call
BARBARA STRONA BRE#008272337
CRS, GRI, SRES, RMS
barbstrona@aol.com www.strona.com
(619)203-1200
(619)295-2702
1111 B Fort Stockton Drive Mission Hills
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School News
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
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Point Loma Pop Warner’s
Earn San Diego Conference Championship Point Loma Youth Football, a member association of the San Diego Pop Warner conference, was founded in 2013 by a handful of dedicated local youth football families. The goal was to provide the exciting and positive family sports experience which comes from participation in a community pop warner program and boasts the name and colors of the neighborhood high school. While in year one, 2013, it was only expected the brand new league would field two-to-three teams, instead the program quickly gained attention and momentum and ended up fielding all five tackle divisions from the eight-year old Mitey Mites to the unlimited weight division 14-year olds, who managed in that first year to bring home a San Diego Conference Championship Title. Point Loma’s dynamic offense was led by Running Backs #25 Kaden Gill, #24 Josh Abbott, #23 Gromyko Green and QB #5 EJ Kreutzmann, and supported by an amazing team of football players, outscored opponents 349–74 and went 9-1 in the 10 games leading up to the Wescon Regional Championship. This year, 2015 Unlimited Division Head Coach Jonathan Gill led the team to the most impressive finish in conference history, capturing not only the title of San Diego Unlimited Champions but going on to defeat the Orange Empire Conference Champion Huntington Beach Chargers with a decisive 22-0 victory in the Wescon Regional Championship Semi-Finals on November 14, 2015. The Point Loma Unlimited team then continued their western states campaign with an exciting Wescon Regional Championship game where the Arizona State Champions came out on top by two touchdowns after four quarters of exciting youth football at its best.•
2015 Unlimited Division Head Coach Jonathan Gill (right) stands next to the Defensive Coordinator Julius Smith
The Unlimited Team members celebrate their accomplishment.
“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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Local News
13
“The Nutcracker” Features Live Symphony Accompaniment
California Ballet Company presents “The Nutcracker” this December at the San Diego Civic Theatre, accompanied by the Classics Philharmonics (December 12-13, 2015) and the San Diego Symphony (December 16-20, 2015). This annual production has entertained audiences for 45 years with Director Maxine Mahon’s playful interpretation America’s favorite holiday ballet. Tchaikovsky’s extravagant score comes to life as a cast of over 150 professional dancers and children present the tale of young Clara, her enchanted Nutcracker Prince, and their adventures through the magic kingdoms of Snow and Sweets. This year’s production will feature Guest Artist Jared Nelson as the Cavalier. Mr. Nelson was most recently seen on the California Ballet stage in the West Coast Premiere of “The Great Gatsby,” dancing the title role. Featured California Ballet Dancers include Principal Ballerina Chie Kudo, Principal Dancers Vitaliy Nechay, Ana da Costa, and Trystan Merrick, and Soloists Oscar Burciaga, Allyson Barkdull, Tess Lane, and Jeremy Zapanta. Tickets may be purchased at www.NutcrackerSanDiego. com or at 858.560.6741. The San Diego Civic Theatre is located at 1100 Third Avenue in downtown San Diego.• Tchaikovsky’s extravagant score comes to life as a cast of over 150 professional dancers perform.
New Year’s Eve on the Bay Celebrate the New Year in style with the Maritime Museum of San Diego, located at 1492 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101, for a Black and Gold New Year’s Eve Party December 31, 2015. The McKinney deck event center has been transformed on the historic Steam Ferry Berkeley into a classy lounge. Two stages will feature opening DJ’s Digital Lizards of Doom, Swing Phunk, DJ Ray Chill, Dbear and headliners DJ MANCAT and Goose MAVRK. They will keep your feet moving and heart pumping throughout the night with sweet tunes of electro swing, electronic pop and nu disco. Private “booths” are available along with individual tickets. Photo booth, champagne, art demonstrations, sweet treats and much more will occur throughout the evening. Party runs from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Guests will receive hats, noisemakers and beads to help ring in the New Year. Tickets and details are available on line at www. sdmaritime.org.•
Christ mas Arrives in
A romantic setting will be provided at the Black and Gold New Year’s Eve Party.
Little Italy
Little Italy’s Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony takes place on Saturday, December 5 on W. Fir between India Street and Kettner Boulevard. San Diegans are encouraged to bring their friends, neighbors and families to celebrate the season during this beloved Little Italy tradition and see Little Italy’s unique Christmas Tree—a 25-foot tower of over 1,100 gorgeous Poinsettias that will light up with over 2,000 lights—located in the center of Piazza Basilone. HOLIDAYS ARE ABOUT FAMILY The Little Italy AssociaAND FRIENDS. May your home tion will be calling in a few favors to the North Pole, reflect the value of your love and Santa Claus himself and sharing, and be a treasure will be making a special box for the joy and caring that appearance for meet and greets with all of the neighyour circle gives and receives. Enjoy! borhood kids and kids at AND January is when to get your house ready if you heart starting at 4 p.m. The Christmas tree will light up are thinking of selling. Don’t wait for March with the 5:30 p.m. and the event crush and possibly higher interest rates, beat the crowd at will last until 8 p.m. The and follow the Super Bowl with Super Home. Call us if night will be full of festive decorations, live music and would like help determining which improvements will entertainment, snacks and pay you the best! holiday beverages. Addi*SUBSCRIBE to our 2/mo. Hot Topics by email or view at tionally, there will also be www.CarlsonandOllis.com. plenty of seasonal vendors selling holiday gifts and goodies—perfect for stockCARLSON AND OLLIS 619 -786-0210 ing stuffers. There’s a rumor Steve Carlson and Ginny Ollis of snow in the forecast in 619-823-6892 619-517-4983 Little Italy at the Christmas Steve@CarlsonandOllis.com, Ginny@CarlsonandOllis.com Tree Lighting—but you’ll CalBRE License #01455190 and have to be there to see this CalBRE License #00642373, respectively Christmas magic.•
A 25-foot tower of over 1,100 gorgeous Poinsettias that will light up with over 2,000 lights.
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A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
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Holiday Events In Old Town San Diego Old Town San Diego State Historic Park will be decked out in historic holiday finery this year and will showcase gingerbread house displays throughout the park as well as a treelighting ceremony with caroling starting at 5 p.m. every Saturday in the month of December. The caroling around the display of nine Christmas trees will be followed each Saturday evening with a bonfire in the plaza complete with free s’mores and hot chocolate, readings and more singing. The annual Holiday in the Park Merchant Open House will be held on Saturday, Dec. 12, from noon to 9 p.m. Crafts for children and special holiday treats will be in the museums, stores and restaurants in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park during the day with an evening bonfire and extended shopping hours until 9 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, marks the 65th-annual Las Posadas event in Old Town. The Las Posadas procession is a walking reenactment of the biblical story of Mary and Joseph’s search for a birthplace for Jesus. Everyone is invited to join the candlelit procession, starting at 4:45 p.m., and sing traditional holiday songs in both Spanish and English as the players go from inn to inn, symbolically asking for lodging. The procession will include local actors playing the parts of Joseph and the innkeepers. The procession culminates with a live nativity tableau in front of Casa de Estudillo along with a choir performance.•
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The Las Posadas procession is a walking reenactment of the biblical story of Mary and Joseph’s search for a birthplace for Jesus.
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Patrons of the Prado
Local News
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Dedicates Time Capsule for 100th Anniversary
Patrons of the Prado punctuated the end of an extraordinary centennial celebration of the CaliforniaPanama Exposition with a special Centennial Time Capsule dedication. This unique buried collection contains artifacts of our lives and times with a focus on the cultural treasures of Balboa Park. It will lie in the Old Globe Craig Noel Garden tucked in a vault until the Bicentennial in 2115. “This has been an outstanding year for Patrons of the Prado to both commemorate the Centennial year and reach new fundraising goals,” said Patrons of the Prado president Micki Olin. “Our Masterpiece Gala this year netted the organization $652,318. This empowered us to distribute a record $58,000 in proceeds to each of our 11 Balboa Park beneficiary institutions.” Since its inception, Patrons has raised nearly $3 million for the 11 beneficiaries, with nearly $200,000 going toward the Bucks for Buses program which started in 2012. Key donors for the Patrons of the Prado Masterpiece Gala included Papa Doug and Geniya Manchester, Arlene and Richard Esgate, Jack McGrory, Valerie and Harry Cooper, Ray Carpenter / R. E. Staite Engineering, Kurt Culver / EsGil Corp, Mel Katz and Phil Blair / Manpower, Richard P. Woltman, Michael Casey, James Rogers and the David C. Patrons of the Prado members are shown with the capsule; Copley Foundation. (l to r) are Micki Olin, Arlene Esgate, Vicki Eddy and Kristi Pieper. It was an exceptional year for Balboa Park, which the American Planning Association named as one of six “Great Places” in America, representing the gold standard in terms of having a true sense of place, cultural and historical interest, community involvement, and a vision for tomorrow. Olin noted that the donations went to all 11 of their beneficiaries this year–a first in the history of Patrons of the Prado–including the San Diego Museum of Man; San Diego Museum of Art; San Diego History Center; The Old Globe Theatre; San Diego Junior Theatre; the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center; Museum of Photographic Arts; Mingei International Museum; Timken Museum of Art; San Diego Hall of Champions; and San Diego Natural History Museum.•
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Theatre News
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
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Old Globe Theatre Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas!” returns to The Old Globe through December 26, 2015. With book and lyrics by Timothy Mason, music by Mel Marvin, original production conceived and directed by Jack O’Brien, original choreography by John DeLuca and 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 18th 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 snow-covered Whoville, right down to the last can of Who-hash. Call 619.23.GLOBE or purchase tickets online at www.TheOldGlobe. org. The Old Globe is located in San Diego’s Balboa Park at 1363 Old Globe Way.•
Landmark Theatres
Winner of the Grand Prix at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival and a standout at the New York Film Festival, young Italian filmmaker Alice Rohrwacher’s (“Corpo Celeste”) appealing, richly textured drama centers on a family of beekeepers living in stark isolation in the Tuscan countryside. The dynamic of their overcrowded household is disrupted by the simultaneous arrival of a silently troubled German teenaged boy taken in as a farmhand and a reality TV show (featuring a host played by Monica Bellucci) intent on showcasing the family. Both intrusions are of particular interest to the eldest daughter, 12-yearold Gelsomina (Maria Alexandra
Lungu), who is her father’s main help in the honey business. Gelsomina dreams of a richer life; she is entranced by the glamorous fantasy host and wants to enter the family for a chance at TV fame, despite her father’s strenuous opposition. Rohrwacher conveys her adolescent sense of wonder and confusion with graceful naturalism, in a film filled with wonders The film is 112 minutes long, Not Rated and opens Friday, December 4 at Landmark’s Ken Cinema. For information and times, call 619.819.0236, or visit www. landmarkTheatres.com. Film times and dates are subject to change.•
Blake Segal appears as Young Max and J. Bernard Calloway as The Grinch. Photo by Jim Cox.
San Diego REPertory Theatre “Outside Mullingar” by John Patrick Shanley, the fourth production of its 40th Anniversary Season, REP Associate Artistic Director Todd Salovey directs his first production of the season, tackling Pulitzer, Tony and Oscar®winner Shanley’s not-so-average romantic comedy set in Ireland. The show begins Thursday, Jan. 21, 2016 and runs through Valentine’s Day on Feb. 14, 2016 with an opening night on Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2016 at 7 p.m. in the Lyceum Space Theatre at San Diego REP. Anthony and Rosemary are over-the-hill 40-something locals living in a tiny village in rural Ireland. They haven’t got a clue when it comes to love. Painfully shy, Anthony has spent his entire life as a recluse on a cattle farm. Rosemary, the fiercely independent and quirky free spirit that lives next door, is determined to have him, and has since she was a young girl. But Rosemary is waiting on Anthony to make the first move. Suddenly a wild, weird and hysterically funny family versus family feud erupts over a tiny patch of land. Soon a bonfire of a battle blazes between Rosemary and Anthony and their Ma (“Aoife”) and Da (“Tony”). Hope and togetherness are severely challenged, but the yearning for love of two eccentric souls is so great that they fight their way above the blaze toward happiness. Taking on the pair of 40-somethings who find love are San Diego favorites, Manny Fernandes as Anthony and Carla Harting as Rosemary. Joining them will be Ellen Crawford (Aoife) Along with Crawford is her husband Mike Genovese as Tony. “Outside Mullingar” serves as a reunion for the four castmates, who have all worked together and with Salovey in previous productions. Tickets can be purchased by calling 619.544.1000. The San Diego Repertory Theatre is located at 79 Horton Plaza in downtown San Diego.•
Left to right are Manny Fernandes, Mike Genovese, Carla Harting and Ellen Crawford. Photo provided by Daren Scott.
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Monica Bellucci stars as the hostess of a reality TV show.
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619.366.0698
4141 Park Blvd. • Mission Hills
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ASID
Elects President
Interior designer and educator Natalia V. Trepchina-Worden, ASID, has been elected to lead the 500-member San Diego chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) as president for the 2015-16 term. The owner of N.T. Worden Design practice, which specializes in residential design, TrepchinaWorden also has been teaching interior design at San Diego State University (SDSU) since 2002. Her extensive educational background includes a master’s degree in architecture from the Ural Architectural Academy in Russia. She also has a master’s degree in Art with emphasis in Interior Design from SDSU. Influenced by a European upbringing, her designs are a distinctive blend of cultural Natalia V. Trepchina-Worden has a influences, global trends, and master’s degree in architecture contemporary lifestyle. from the Ural Architectural Academy She has been involved with in Russia. ASID since college in many capacities, including co-chair of the ASID Kitchen Tour and six years as Faculty Advisor to the ASID Student Chapter at SDSU. Trepchina-Worden is also a member of the U.S. Green Building Council and the Interior Design Educators Council. The 2015-16 ASID board of directors also includes Lena Brion, ASID, president-elect; Amy Ramirez, Industry Partner ASID, financial director; Kate Lindberg, ASID, director of professional development and programs; Gerald Bouvia III, Allied ASID, at large director; Faye Fentin, ASID, director of membership; Jill Winninger, Allied ASID, director of communications; and Nataly Ozuna, Student ASID, student representative to the board.•
Mission Hills Resident
Local News
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Earns Prestigious Award
Gina Champion-Cain, who has had a meteoric rise to the top of the food chain in the hospitality industry, San Diego Visitor Industry, and retail and consumer products categories, was selected as a winner of the 2015 Women Who Mean Business Award, from the San Diego Business Journal. ChampionCain was awarded the honor at the Town and Country Convention Center this past month with over 1000 entrepreneurial and enthusiastic women in attendance. Champion-Cain and her husband, Steven, are residents of Mission Hills, as well as her two Golden Retrievers. “I am completely thrilled by this wonderful and significantly meaningful award. I encourage my female associates to reach Gina Champion-Cain has received for the sky and always remember numerous awards during her career. their dreams can come true with focused hard work, self-determination and consistent belief in selfaccomplishment,” said Champion-Cain. Champion-Cain is president and CEO of American National Investments (ANI, Inc.). She provides strategic direction and oversight to all development, acquisitions, commercial and residential leasing, asset management and entire brand development and growth. Her leadership includes directing the firm’s actively current ventures into San Diego’s hospitality market with three Patio-branded restaurants, including The Patio on Lamont street in Pacific Beach; The Patio on Goldfinch in Mission Hills, and soon to be opened Fireside by The Patio; Saska’s Restaurant in Mission Beach; Swell Coffee Company; The Front Porch in Mission Hills and Coronado; Luv Surf Vacation Homes in Mission Bay; and Luv Surf youth and woman’s lifestyle clothing brand. Prior to stating ANI in the late ‘70s, Champion-Cain was senior vice president of the Koll Company in Newport Beach, where she was responsible for project management of three urban retail and entertainment centers here and Japan. She was one of the pioneers in the “Renaissance of the Gaslamp Quarter in the ‘80s, serving on the Downtown San Diego Partnership Board and responsible for major Gaslamp downtown property redevelopment including bringing House of Blues to San Diego in the early ‘90s. She is graduate of the University of Michigan and holds a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of San Diego. She is a member of the Burnham-Moores Center for Real Estate’s policy advisory board. Champion-Cain is the recipient of numerous civic and business awards for her leadership and contributions to the economic, educational and social well-being of San Diego.•
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Lifestyle
Protect Your Property Values &
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
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Support Historic Districts
By Deborah B. Pettry, Ph.D. On November 9, 2015, scary posters showed up on telephone poles throughout our community. “Protect Your Property Values!” they announced. “Research has shown that over time, the restrictions of being in an historic district hurt property values for most property owners.” This was the day before the Mission Hills Town Council meeting reviewing the Uptown Community Plan Update, and the posters urged everyone to attend to learn more about the plan’s proposed potential historic districts. They also urged active opposition to the potential districts. The statement about the research startled me. Was this true? Do historic districts hurt “property values for most property owners”? Time to turn to the internet! The next day I Googled the phrase “historic district property values.” (I urge you to do the same.) I had limited time, as I work full-time and the meeting was that night. So I just looked at the first two pages of results. I also limited myself to well-designed research and not essays or opinion pieces. Finally, I kept my sources to the past 15 years: I only wanted to see research that was completed and published after 2000. If you were at the Town Council meeting that night, you heard my quick summary of what I learned. As I said there, I was surprised to find overwhelming evidence that historic districts increase in property value much faster than comparable non-designated areas. They also are more stable and resist property value fluctuations. In addition, homes located near but not in those areas also benefit. Here are the studies I found: Kalamazoo—a case study comparable to Mission Hills h t t p : / / s c h o l a r w o r k s . w m i c h . e d u / c g i / viewcontent.cgi?article=1564&context=mast ers_theses
A 2015 master’s degree thesis by Curtis Aardema compared two very similar communities in Kalamazoo, Michigan– Edison and Vine. These areas have homes that look a lot like Mission Hills and come from the same era. Aardema carefully identified the many similarities and some differences between Edison and Vine, including assessed values. He was analyzing them because in 1990 Vine chose to have historic designation and Edison did not. So what happened to the respective property values? Aardema randomly selected 50 homes from each of the two areas. He then compared their average assessed values (both total and per square foot) in 1990, 2000, and 2010. Edison, the non-designated area, increased in average value 53 percent over those 20 years, but historically designated Vine increased 65 percent over the same period. The gap between their average total values went from 19 percent in 1990 to 29 percent in 2000 to 38 percent in 2010–with Vine, the historically designated area, consistently increasing in value more than Edison. When compared on a value per square foot basis, Vine actually began lower than Edison in 1990 but had become the higher value community by 2010. Both neighborhoods grew in value over the years, but the values in the historic area Vine grew greater and faster. Ardema found the only explanatory difference was the historic designation for Vine. City of Tucson review of 15 studies http://www.preservationnj.org/site/ExpEng/ images/images/pdfs/Historic%20District%20 benefits_Mabry_%206-7-07.pdf
Jonathan Mabry, Historic Preservation Officer for the City of Tucson, reviewed 15 studies from around the U.S. examining property values over time in designated
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Historical houses in Mission Hills create character and help increase property values. historic districts compared to similar undesignated neighborhoods in the same communities. Every study that he listed showed that the historic districts had higher increases in value than the comparable non-designated areas. (Nine of the studies were completed 1991–2000 and six were 2001-2007, but the results were consistent.) Mabry summarized the overall findings as: • Historic district designation typically increases residential property values by 5-35% per decade over the values in similar, undesignated neighborhoods. • The values of newer properties within designated historic districts increase along with those of older properties. • Local historic district designation decreases investor uncertainty and insulates property values from wild swings in the housing market. • Historic district designation leads to increased levels of home ownership and longer residence by both homeowners and renters. • Designated historic districts tend to have higher rates of participation in neighborhood associations and improvement projects, which protects shared spaces from decline. Four Connecticut Communities http://www.placeeconomics.com/wpcontent/uploads/2011/03/ct_report_2011.pdf
In 2011 the Connecticut Trust for Historic Preservation hired PlaceEconomics to study the effects of historic district designations on property values in four different towns, generally within the period 2000—2008. As the Trust summarized the results, “We are very pleased by the results of this analysis. In no case was there evidence that being in a local historic district reduced property values. In fact, in three of the four communities, properties within historic districts have had an annual increase in value greater than that of properties in the community as a whole.” Here are key findings they shared: • Property values in every local historic district saw average increases in value ranging from four percent to over 19 percent per year. • In three of the four communities the rate of value increase for properties within local historic districts was greater than for properties with no such protection. [The one district where this is not true had a much higher proportion of
multifamily and commercial buildings than did the town overall.] • In “head to head” square-foot comparisons based on age and style, properties within local historic districts were worth more than similar properties not within the districts. • Overall there appears to be a two-to-four percent value premium resulting from location within a local historic district. • On a composite basis, the rate of foreclosure of properties within the historic districts was half the rate outside the districts. • The comparative value increase is least where there are significant commercial and multifamily structures within the same neighborhood as single-family residences [such as we have in parts of University Heights and North Park]. New York City boroughs http://urbanland.uli.org/economy-marketstrends/historical-designations-affectproperty-values/
The National Bureau of Economic Research published work by a team of economists and policy analysts examining the effects of historic designation on property values. The 2014 paper describes what happened to property values in different types of neighborhoods when they were designated as historic, using data from 120 different historic districts across the New York City area 1974–2009. They found that historic district designation raised property values consistently, as well as increasing the value of properties just outside the boundaries of the districts. The sole exception is inside Manhattan, where the ability to build to unrestricted heights on the limited land is the greater determinant of value. In essence, the loss of value in Manhattan designated areas was the loss of projected value that developers could have gained by replacing the historically designated buildings with much taller buildings. The properties themselves did not lose actual value. The authors also wrote, “If initial aesthetic levels are higher, preservation can increase value, both for the unit and total real estate [of the community].” The authors found that after controlling for structural differences, a 20 percent premium is placed on properties located in areas that are or will become historic districts.
Continued on page 19
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
©
What Now?
Lifestyle
19
Good News!
By Laura Walcher I’m a little challenged this month, having been determined to report some good news and raise a few laughs, but it just ain’t easy. Dreadful Donald has scooped up most of the available ink and air; seeking safety, seeking grounding, migrants rush desperately from country to country–and now, as I write, their plight is being made more difficult by fears of terrorists amongst ‘em. The Southern Poverty Law Center counts 784 “active hate groups in the U. S.” (the “winners” are Neo-Nazi and anti-LGBT organizations); ISIS, Boko Harom (or whatever they’re called) reign mysteriously and shockingly unabated, seemingly unstoppable; a world spokesperson calls Pres. Obama an “anti-semite,” and says John Kerry “… has the intellect of a pre-teenager.”
OK, so this commentator is Israel’s Chief of Public Diplomacy. You got a problem with that? The innocents don’t even win lately, per half the antelopes dead from a bacteria that used to be harmless and has now turned deadly. And … whoops!!! Have I cheered you up, yet? Fortunately for our spirits and psyche, we can find corresponding good news. We liked it when ex-presidents, George W. Bush (Bush 43) and Bill Clinton appear on a TIME cover as compatriots, warmly reminiscing about their illustrious (and semi-illustrious) pasts. Separately and together, they now contribute their time and energy to benefit the less lucky of us (i.e. earthquake victims in Haiti). George is a respectable artist; Bill’s got his Hillary to support. And amends are being made: Volkswagen, per its sins, had been such a disappointment, its decadeslong superb reputation eroding by the day’s news’
deadlines. But, they seem determined to save themselves. Their recent full-page NY Times ad headline reads, “We’re working to make things right. “ Dealers breathe a sigh of relief, and affected VW owners get gifts, a “goodwill package,” says Michael Horn (VW Group of America). Sincere apologies with gifts…that works. Around here , I’ve been the last senior standing. We won’t mention names, but count the family recovering from a stroke, a deep-vein thrombosis, a fractured wrist. They’re all on the mend, voila! So don’t go reading any newspapers (save this one), and pay scant attention to the world’s ills. We forget, they’ve always been ‘round; for better or for worse, our fabulous modern technology helps us know all about them, all the time. If all else fails, remember Winston Churchill, that reasonably good guy: “If you’re going through hell,” he said, “keep going!” •
Historic Districts
Continued from page 18
In summary, across these four sources: So, back to the posters proclaiming, “Research has shown that over time, the restrictions of being in an historic district hurt property values for most property owners.” Were they right? They were dead wrong. • The research I found showed that in areas that are comparable to most of Mission Hills–generally areas of single family dwellings, having high aesthetic values, and walkable access to commercial nodes–historic district designation leads to significantly greater property value growth than in comparable
neighborhoods without designation. This value growth also pertains to properties near the districts and to new construction within the districts. • The only exception that I could find was that if one has property one hopes to sell or use for multiple-story, multiple family dwellings or commercial use. In that case, if the property is in an area zoned for such use but the historic designation results in height or density limits, then one’s speculative profits may not increase as desired–although one’s neighbors’ homes may benefit greatly from the lack of a large building going up next door. The
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property itself would only lose real value if the owner paid a premium for it on the bet that it would be replaced by new development. This situation would pertain to a very limited part of the potential historic areas of Mission Hills—generally along University Avenue and north of the Washington commercial area–and to only a handful of property owners in those areas. For most residents in those areas, a greater threat is loss of real value if a seven-story building rises next door.
As the posters said, “Protect Your Property Values.” Support historic districts!•
Pers onal TuneUp with Cath
In Awe by Cath DeStefano e, you and I, are the results of These too call for awe: W long lines of sperm meeting egg • The ability to stand upright, and on and on down through moving along, one foot in front the generations, first uniting, of the other. and then cell by cell dividing • Our hearts beating year after and multiplying, until we year, seemingly without needmiraculously became a self, ing our assistance, beat by beat entering through our mother’s by beat. body onto our earth and walking • A toddler speaking in sentences. around, living a life. • First breaths and last breaths. This calls for awe. • Feeling the love of one for another, me for thee, we for us. While we sleep, the earth rotates and brings sunrise to us and all points along the way until it travels far so the sun is seeming to rise again… back to nudging us awake with its lightness.
Awe. Wonder. Please send Invoice to University Christian ChurchReverence.
DEC. 2015 Display Ad for Presidio Sentinal
3900 Cleveland Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 Pnone: 619-295-44146
When life gets a touch too real (and, oh yes, can’t it now), there’s nothing quite like a pause to connect again with the simple wonders in and among us. There’s something about this appreciation that restores and soothes our souls, allowing us to be alive in life again.•
Cath DeStefano CEO, Speaker, Author, Fun Workshop Leader Customer Service TuneUps I HeArt Fests www.HumanTuneUp.com
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Music Scene
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
©
The G rammy Award Winning
Soweto Gospel Choir Performs at the Jacobs Center This Holiday Season Regarded as one of the most inspirational choirs in the world, the Grammy award winning Soweto Gospel Choir makes two joyous holiday performances in Southeastern San Diego’s Diamond Neighborhoods, 4 and 7 p.m., Sunday, December 20 at the Jacobs Center, located at 404 Euclid Avenue, San Diego. Bring the whole family and be moved by the inspirational power of African Gospel music and dance. Celebrate the season of giving knowing that proceeds from your ticket purchase go toward supporting performing arts and cultural experiences in the Diamond Neighborhoods. Make this holiday season one to remember by seeing this 20-strong choir perform where the world meets, in a slice of San Diego home to at least 12 cultures and a state-of-the art venue only minutes from downtown San Diego. Purchase your tickets at www.jacobspresents.com or call 619.527.6161. The Soweto Gospel Choir was formed in Soweto, South Africa, by David Mulovhedzi and Beverly Bryer, two choir directors. The ensemble blends elements of African gospel, Negro spirituals, reggae and American popular music. The group performed at the first of the 46664 concerts for Nelson Mandela and has since toured internationally several times. Their albums “Blessed” and “African Spirit” won the Grammy Award for Best Traditional World Music Album in 2007 and 2008 respectively. On 7 July 2007 they performed at the South The ensemble blends elements of African gospel, Negro spirituals, reggae and American popular music. African leg of Live Earth. Also in 2007, they joined Robert Plant in contributing to “Goin’ Home: A Tribute to Fats Domino” (Vanguard Records), performing their version of Domino’s “Valley of Tears.” At the 81st Academy Awards in 2009, the group backed Peter Gabriel with the song “Down to Earth”, a song from WALL-E nominated for “Best Song” that year.•
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A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
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Italian With A Twist–
Food Scene
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Davati Enoteca
By David Rottenberg
Davanti Enoteca opened in Little Italy some four years ago, the local expansion of a Chicago-based restaurant group founded by Chef Scott Harris. A second local location is in Del Mar. Harris’ restaurant group now operates 33 restaurants in four states, of which 23 locations are Mia Francesca sophisticated fine dining concepts, five Glazed & Infused artisan donut shops, and five Davanti Enoteca locations, which offer casual Northern Italian cuisine with a twist. The busy Little Italy location caters to a hip, upscale clientele, many of whom live in the jungle of nearby condos. The exterior of the location seems a bit smaller than some of the nearby competing eateries but the interior goes deep and roomy. Aged, brick facing covers many of the interior walls, creating an old, rustic ambiance. A long bar runs along one wall, and comfortable tables line the adjacent area, across from a central walkway. A small patio off India Street lets diners watch the flow of humanity searching for a place A small patio off India Street lets diners watch the flow of humanity searching for a place to eat. to eat. My favorite area is an interior open patio, that is pet-friendly. This patio has a beautiful tree growing in the middle. At But, his genius lies in modifying traditional recipes to conform to modern, night, pin lights hung from the tree’s branches glow romantically to create a sophisticated tastes. For example, Focaccia di Recco + honeycomb is a mellow, sweet ambiance. Ligurian style bread, very thin, folded over soft cow cheese. It is served Chef Harris, who is bi-coastal, living both in San Diego and Chicago, sets with a chunk of honeycomb that one spreads on top of the focaccia to give the menu, which changes from time to time to reflect seasonal opportunities. it a sweet taste. The sweetness enhances the texture of the focaccia and adds immeasurably to flavor. Liguria is an area of northern Italy bordered by France in the west. Our server jokingly called the dish “an Italian quesadilla.” It was delicious. Several versions of pizza are listed on the menu, including Pizza con Funghi e Taleggio, pizza topped by mushrooms and leeks, with truffle oil sprinkled on top. The crust is practically paper thin but strong enough to serve as a good base for the delicious topping. Pizza Calabrese is topped with spicy Italian sausage and “scamorza.” That’s Italian for a type of cow’s milk cheese. In case some of the terms on the menu are unfamiliar, the website includes a glossary to interpret. For example, “davanti” means “ in front of” and “enoteca” means “wine bar.” So the name of the restaurant means “in front of the wine bar.” The website does not include a wine menu. Rather, each manager has the opportunity to select the wines that are offered. The Little India location wine menu includes selections by the glass or bottle. Some of the selections are Italian but many are from Napa. Prices run moderate to high for bottles. Pastas include Paccheri con Salsiccia e Pomodori al Forno, giant rigatoni with sausage and parmesan. On the giant side, Uovo in Raviolo alla Carbonara are giant ravioli, with egg, peas and ricotta. Funghi Risotto is a risotto with mushrooms, enhanced with wonderful truffle oil. Entrees include salmon and branzino dishes, an octopus dish and Pollo Cavatelli, a delightfully flavored dish with about half a chicken atop pasta that is shaped like small hot dog buns. Davanti Enoteco features a daily afternoon happy hour and a weekend brunch. Is Bloody Mary your cocktail of choice? There’s a build your own Bloody Mary bar, with all the mixing for you to make it the way you like it. If entertaining out-of-town guests, keep Davanti Enoteca in mind. It presents crowd-pleasing cuisine in a casual setting with food prices that are Pizza con Funghi e Taleggio is pizza topped by mushrooms and leeks, moderate. Guests will enjoy seeing and experiencing a hip and sophisticated with truffle oil sprinkled on top. California lifestyle setting. Davanti Enoteca is located at 1655 India Street in Little Italy, near the corner of Date Street. Call 619.237.9606 for information and reservations. To all my readers—my best wishes for a Joyous Holiday Season and the Best New Year.•
Enjoy Your Holidays With Us!
Focaccia di Recco + honeycomb is a Ligurian style bread, very thin, folded over soft cow cheese.
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Calendar
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
©
December 2015 Thru December 13 n The Studio Door, located at 3750 30th Street in North Park, transforms into An Artists Marketplace for the Holiday Art Market. Hundreds of original artworks by regional artists and fine craftspeople will be featured salon-style in the North Park art gallery and studios. Shoppers can enjoy oneof-a-kind arts, crafts, jewelry and unique holiday gifts from local artists. For information, visit www.TheStudioDoor.com or call 619.255.4920. Thru December 14 n A Ship in the Woods in partnership with Carbillo National Monument Conservancy and the Cabrillo National Monument Artist-In-Residence program features an exhibition of sitespecific artworks and installations features local and national artists interpreting the convergences and fragmentations of land and water, as well as the habitats and people that are part of the rich ecosystem of the Point Loma peninsula. December 1 n Mission Valley Branch Library, located at 2123 Fenton Parkway, San Diego, will hold a Legal Clinic with attorney Mark Miller from 6 to 7:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month to talk about your legal issues. Call 858.573.5007 for information. December 1 & 8 n Mission Valley Branch Library, located at 2123 Fenton Parkway, San Diego will hold a Covered California Open Enrollment Assistance program from 4 to 6 p.m. Stop by for assistance with signing up with subsidized health care coverage through MediCal and Covered California. Open enrollment is through January 31, 2016. Call 858.573.5007 for information. December 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 n San Diego Central Library at Joan & Irwin Jacobs Common, located at 330 Park Blvd, is presenting Tots and Tales from 10:30 to 11 a.m. at Sanford Children’s Library (1st floor). Enjoy stories, songs, and rhymes to foster early literacy for toddlers and preschoolers. For information, call 619.238.5800. n Mission Valley Branch Library, located at 2123 Fenton Parkway, San Diego, will hold Yoga for Adults and Teens from 6 to 7 p.m. Learn yoga, an easy workout program that requires little or no equipment and soothes your soul while toning your body. Call 858.573.5007 for information. December 2 n San Diego Barons Markets and Alesmith Brewing present HoHo-Hoppy Holidays Beer Pairing and Jolly speakeasy of bites and brews to benefit San Diego Food Bank. To ring in the holiday season with festive flavors and homegrown brews, go to San Diego County Barons Market from 6 to 8 p.m. Space is limited, purchase your $15 tickets at www.eventbrite.com. Visit www.baronsmarket.com for information. December 2 thru 6 n San Diego State University School of Theatre, Television, and Film, presents Doctor Faustus Lights the Lights, Gertrude Stein’s 1938, avant-garde take on the classic Faust myth asking the question, “ Would you see your soul…?” Performances are 7:30 p.m., December 2 through 5; and 2 p.m., December 6. Director Peter Cirino has engaged the creative powers of the SDSU School of Music and Dance, and the SDSU School of Air + Design to create the world in which an Edison-like Doctor Faustus has sold his soul for electric light. Performances are being held in the SDSU’s Don Powell Theatre at 5500 Campanile Drive. San Diego. Tickets are available at www.theatre.sdsu.edu. December 2, 9 & 16 n San Diego Central Library at Joan & Irwin Jacobs Common, located at 330 Park Blvd, is offering a Homework Center from 3 to 6 p.m. on the 2nd Floor. Students (K-8) can receive free personalized assistance. For information, call 619.238.5800. December 2, 9, 16, & 23 n Mission Valley Branch Library, located at 2123 Fenton Parkway, San Diego, presents a Sumi-e Art Class from 2:30 to 5 p.m. Learn the classical Japanese style of ink and brush. This course is for Adults and Seniors. Call 858.573.5007 for information. December 2 & 16 n San Diego Central Library at Joan & Irwin Jacobs Common, located at 330 Park Blvd. in San Diego, presents a Rainbow Loom® Club program from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at Sanford Children’s Library (1st floor). Try out the hottest new crafting craze–rubber band bracelets. Supplies are provided. The class is for children ages 7-12. For information, call 619.238.5800. December 3 n Dizzy’s, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, invites you to the annual Jingle Bell Jazz presentation by the Mesa College Jazz Ensemble under the direction of James Romeo. Performance is at 7:30 p.m.; $15 cover. December 3, 10 & 17 n Mission Valley Branch Library, located at 2123 Fenton Parkway, San Diego, will hold a Preschool Story Time & Craft from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Preschoolers are invited to a story time, then a fun craft right after. Call 858.573.5007 for information. December 3, 10, 17 & 31 n San Diego Central Library at Joan & Irwin Jacobs Common, located at 330 Park Blvd, will hold Toddler Yoga from 10:30 to 11 a.m. at Sanford Children’s Library (1st floor). Watch as your child transforms into a cat, a monkey, a dog and a lion. The class is for ages 1 to 4. For information, call 619.238.5800. December 4 n Leftover Cuties will be the headliner at the AMSDconcerts tonight. They have sparked a fire with music lovers with a timeless jazz-tinged sound, combining sultry vocals, popperfect songwriting and seasoned musicianship. They perform at the Laura R. Charles Theater at Sweetwater High School, located at 2900 Highland Avenue, National City, at 7:30 p.m. For tickets, please visit www.AMSDconcerts.com. December 4 & 5 n The Balboa Park December Nights takes from 3 to 11 p.m., December 4 and noon to 11 p.m., December 5. Enjoy lights, multi-cultural music and dance performances: carolers, bellringers, chorus and bands, and food throughout the park. Due to special events at Petco Park—Shuttle Service Changes—Friday 3- midnight and Saturday 11:30 a.m.–midnight at City College Lots between 16th and “B and C” streets. December 4, 11, & 18 n Mission Valley Branch Library, located at 2123 Fenton Parkway, San Diego, will hold a Toddler Story Time from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Call 858.573.5007 for information. n San Diego Central Library at Joan & Irwin Jacobs Common, located at 330 Park Blvd, presents Fun and Games from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at Sanford Children’s Library (1st Floor). Join us for various family fun activities for kids 5 to 10 years of age, such as Wii and LEGOs. For information, call 619.238.5800. December 5 n theNAT, San Diego National History Museum, located at 1788 El Prado, presents Canyoneer Hikes. Free and open to the public, the walk today is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Daley Ranch (Engelmann Oak Loop): Difficulty–Intermediate, Distance–5 miles, Elevation Change up to 1000 feet. Get complete hiking information at www.sndhm.org. n San Diego Central Library at Joan & Irwin Jacobs Common, located at 330 Park Blvd., presents Hullabaloo at the Library from 1 to 1:45 p.m. at Sanford Children’s Library (1st Floor). This popular children’s musical act will perform tunes that get both kids and parents tapping their toes and clapping along. For information, call 619.238.5800. n The Little Italy Association will be calling in a few favors to the North Pole, and Santa Claus himself with be making a
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special appearance at W. Fir between India Street and Kettner Boulevard 4 p.m. The Christmas tree–a 25 foot tower of over 1,100 gorgeous poinsettias with will light up with over 2,000 lights–located in the center of Piazza Basilone. The lighting ceremony begins at 5:30 p.m. and the event will last until 8 p.m. The night will be full of festive decorations, live music and entertainment, snacks, holiday beverages and more. n Dizzy’s, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, presents jazz composer/pianist Irving Flores & his Quintet featuring alto saxophone specialist Charlie Arbelaez, with Justin Grinnell upright bass, Bob Weller drums, and a very special surprise guest. Performance start at 8 p.m.; $15 cover. December 5, 12 & 19 n Old Town San Diego State Historic Park will be decked out in historic holiday finery this year and will showcase gingerbread house displays throughout the park as well as a tree-lighting ceremony with caroling starting at 5 p.m. every Saturday in December. Bonfires in the plaza complete the caroling with free s’mores and hot chocolate, readings and more singing. December 5, 12, 19 & 26 n San Diego Central Library at Joan & Irwin Jacobs Common, located at 330 Park Blvd, presents Open Art Time from 1 to 5 p.m. at Sanford Children’s Library (1st Floor). Kids can experiment with various art supplies, and grown-ups can get simple art ideas to take home. The session is for youth of all ages. All materials provided. For information, call 619.238.5800. December 6th n theNAT, San Diego National History Museum, at 1788 El Prado, presents Canyoneer Hikes. Free and open to the public, the walk today is from 8 to 10 a.m. at the San Elijo Lagoon County Ecological Preserve (Rios Ave.): Difficulty–Easy, Distance–2 miles. Get complete hiking information at www.sndhm.org. n SoNo Fest & Chili Cook-Off at North Park’s historic Altadena neighborhood, located at 32nd & Thorn Streets, takes place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 40 local restaurants will battle it out for chili begging rights in a chili cook-off competition. There will be a craft beef garden featuring 18 local breweries and wine: food trucks; live music, local handmade vendors to fulfill holiday shopping lists; a kid fun fest with a ping pong tournament, bounce houses, carnival games and more. Patrons can sample chili in a handmade ceramic bowl for $20. All proceeds will benefit the McKinley School Foundation. n The Wine Pub, located at 2907 Shelter Island Drive # 108, presents Winter WINEderland, a one-stop shop for holiday giving and gift buying. The event will host a pop-up boutique of four local vendors on its outdoor patio alongside twinkling light and a cozy fire pit. To spread community compassion, The Win Pub encourages guest to bring gently used jackets, sweaters and blankets to benefit Veterans Village of San Diego, a nonprofit that assists nearly 2,000 homeless veterans, including men and women who have recently returned from Iraq and Afghanistan. For information, visit www.thewinepubsd.com. n Dizzy’s, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, presents Los Angeles/Brooklyn-based guitar/tuba/drum trio Evil Genius as they introduce their debut album “Bitter Human” at 7 p.m.; $15 cover, ($10 students). December 6 & 7 n The impressive theatre at the Creative Performing & Media Arts (CPMA) Middle School at 5050 Conrad Ave., San Diego presents San Diego Women’s next concert “Love IS” at 4 p.m., December 6 and 7 p.m., December 7. They will share beautiful harmonies and heartwarming messages with you, your friends, and family. Purchase tickets at www.sdwc.ticketleap.com/loveis/. December 6, 13, 20, & 27 n Wacky Science Sundays with Ms. Frizzle™ and The Magic School Bus© takes place from 12:15 to 2:15 p.m. at theNAT, located at 1788 El Prado in Balboa Park. Explore the wild and wacky worlds of mysterious creatures, fascinating habitats, and phenomenal hands-on science. Free with Museum admission. This month’s theme is Storm Drains. Visit www.sdnat.org for ticket information. December 7 n Reuben H Fleet Science Center, located at 1875 El Prado in Balboa Park, is offering a discount to seniors. The first Monday of every month, seniors 65 and better can enjoy the Science Center exhibits, a show in the Heikoff Giant Dome Theater and a lecture on the quietest day of the month for only $8. The doors open at 9:30 a.m. The lecture this month at 10:30 a.m. is on Finding Balance: A Blend of Research and Outreach on a Foundational Motor Skill. n San Diego Central Library at Joan & Irwin Jacobs Common, located at 330 Park Blvd, presents a 3D Printing Club from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Wells Fargo Technology Learning Center–4th floor. Learn about all things related to 3d printing, 3d scanning, and 3d modeling. The club is open to all ages. For information, call 619.238.5800. n 12th Annual Charity Wreath Auction takes place at Martinis Above Fourth, located at 3940 Fourth Avenue, 2nd Floor, San Diego. The wreath preview and registration begins at 6 p.m. and the live auction stars at 7:30 p.m. There is a $10 suggested donation. The real fun starts with the live auction featuring the MA4 Hot Wreath Boys on stage showcasing the beautiful creations donated to the event. All proceeds from the evening’s festivities benefit the Queen Eddie Conion Youth Fund, which benefits-in crisis youth. For information and/or to donate a wreath, visit www.events.thecentersd.org/wreathauction or www.martinisabovefouth.com/wreath. December 7, 15 & 21 n San Diego Central Library at Joan & Irwin Jacobs Common, located at 330 Park Blvd, presents Baby Sign Storytime at Sanford Children’s Library (1st Floor) from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Storytime using sign language to enhance the reading of wellloved children’s picture books. This interactive presentation also includes sing-alongs and bubble time and ends with a Question and Answer period. The class is for children from 0 to five-years old. For information, call 619.238.5800. December 7, 14, 21 & 28 n Mission Valley Branch Library, located at 2123 Fenton Parkway, San Diego, presents a Zumba class from 4 to 5 p.m. A towel and bottled water are recommended for our Zumba sessions. Audience is teens, adults and seniors. Call 858.573.5007 for information. December 9 n Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego, Inc. and Kearny Mesa Subaru invite San Diegans to their annual Share the Love Food Truck and More Event & Competition from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. San Diego’s top food trucks and restaurants will be onsite serving meals to patrons. Kearny Mesa Subaru, located at 4797 Convoy Street in San Diego, is once again hosting the awareness event that shines a light on the exploding need to help homebound seniors and encourages individuals to donate their time, talent or treasures. December 9 & 23 n Mission Valley Branch Library, located at 2123 Fenton Parkway, San Diego, presents a Knit-a-Bit Knitting and Crochet Circle from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Attend the bi-weekly gathering of creative, crafty yarn workers who are happy to admire your accomplishments (no matter how modest) and assist you with your knottiest (literally) problems. The class is for adults and seniors. For information, call 858.573.5007. December 10 n theNAT, San Diego National History Museum, located at 1788 El Prado in Balboa Park presents Nature & Me Storytime
at 10:15 a.m. Open to all ages with a parent or guardian (recommended for ages 1-5), the event is free with Museum admission. This Months theme is Winter Animals. Visit www. sdnat.org for information. n San Diego Central Library at Joan & Irwin Jacobs Common, located at 330 Park Blvd, presents Read to the Animals from 3 to 4 p.m. at Sanford Children’s Library (1st Floor). This monthly program helps children improve their reading skills by reading to animals in a fun and relaxing environment. Appropriate for ages 5-9, parental permission required. For information, call 619.238.5800. December 11 n All Souls Episcopal Church, located at 1475 Catalina Blvd, will have the Peninsula Singers perform Mainly Movies from the Holidays at 7 p.m. The concert is for all the family and will include music from such movies as “Home Alone,” “Love, Actually,” “Charlie Brown Christmas,” The Polar Express,” “Meet Me in St. Louis,” “Holiday Inn,” “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and more. For information and to purchase tickets online, visit www.peninsulasingerssandiego.org. December 12 n theNAT, San Diego National History Museum, located at 1788 El Prado, presents Canyoneer Hikes. Free and open to the public, the walk today is from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (Maidenhair Falls Aka Hellhole Canyon): Difficulty–Intermediate plus extra challenges, Distance–6 miles, Elevation Change up to 1000 feet. Get complete hiking information at www.sndhm.org. n The Patio on Goldfinch, located at 4020 Goldfinch St., San Diego, invites you to Glamour on Goldfinch presentation from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Enjoy a holiday trunk show and brunch to support Fashion Week San Diego entrepreneurs and a local humane society. Reservations are recommended: call 619.501.5090. n Mission Valley Branch Library, located at 2123 Fenton Parkway, San Diego, will hold a Covered California Open Enrollment Assistance event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Stop by for assistance with signing up with subsidized health care coverage through Medi-Cal and Covered California. Open enrollment is through January 31, 2016. Call 858.573.5007 for information. n theNAT, San Diego National History Museum, located at 1788 El Prado in Balboa Park, will host Mysteries of the Maya Family Day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rediscover this ancient civilization through hands-on activities and a craft to take home. For information, visit www.sdnat.org. n Reuben H. Fleet Science Center is holding a Saturday Science Club for girls in grades 5 through 8 from noon to 2 p.m. This month the topic is Rube Goldberg Device: Here’s your chance to be creative, collaborative and have fun too. Learn to make sections of a Rube Goldberg device and connect the entire contraption together by the end of class. Prices are members $12, non-members $14 per person. To participate, parents must pre-register by calling 619.238.1233 x806. n The annual Holiday in the Park Merchant Open House will be held noon to 9 p.m. in Old Town San Diego Historic Park. Crafts for children and special holiday treats will be in the museums, stores and restaurants during the day with an evening bonfire and extended shopping hours until 9 p.m. n Mission Valley Branch Library, located at 2123 Fenton Parkway, San Diego, will hold a Fraud and Scam Prevention Workshop from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Get tips on how to protect yourself and where to report suspected fraudulent activity. Call 858.573.5007 for information. n 2nd Annual Toast of Downtown, Sip, Savor, & Shop–Toasting the Season in the Gaslamp, takes place from 1 to 5 p.m. Sample over 24 of the most satisfying nibbles and sips that the Gaslamp and East Village has to offer. Over 20 participating retailers will be offering discounts to Toast shoppers. Purchase your ticket prior to the event for $20, or purchase your tickets on the day of the event for $25. For information, call 619.233.5008 or visit www.toastofdowntown.com. n 2nd Annual Christmas on the Prado takes place from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Spreckles Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park. There will be Christmas music, entertainment, a kid’s zone, and photos with Santa. Visit www.ChristmasOnthe Prado.com for information. n Logan Heights Library Branch, located at 567 South 28th Street, presents the Pacific Coast Chorale at 4 p.m. San Diego’s busiest community choir takes the stage for an unprecedented evening of soothing sprits and frolicking fun from some of the different cultures of the Hold Land. What a wonderful way to start your holiday season. n First Unitarian Universalist Church, located at 4190 Front St. in Hillcrest, invites you to Holiday magic as the 45-piece Hillcrest Wind Ensemble presents “Winterscapes” at 7 p.m. The evening will feature music in celebration of Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Years Eve. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door and are available from the Windsmith at 3875 Granada Ave. in North Park or at www.sdartstix.com. December 12 & 13 n California Ballet Company presents the Nutcracker accompanied by the Classics Philharmonics at the San Diego Civic Theatre, located at 1100 Third Avenue in downtown San Diego, at 7 p.m. This annual production has entertained audiences for 45 years with Director Maxine Mahon’s playful interpretation of America’s favorite holiday ballet. Tickets may be purchased at www.NutcrackerSanDiego.com or at 858.560.6741. n San Diego Gay Men’s Chorus presents the holly jolliest holiday show of the season, Jingle, at the festive Balboa Theatre. Now in its 30th year, the wintery and wonderful spectacular is one of San Diego’s favorite holiday traditions. It’s more than a concert; it’s a show with all the holiday music, magic and mischief of the season. Performances are at 8 p.m., December 12 and 3 p.m., December 13. Tickets are available at www.sdgmc.org or by calling the Balboa Theatre at 619.570.1100. December 13 n theNAT, San Diego National History Museum, located at 1788 El Prado, Canyoneer Hikes. Free and open to the public, the walk today is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (Palm Canyon): Difficulty–Intermediate, Distance–4 miles, Elevation Change up to 1000 feet. Get complete hiking information at www.sndhm.org. n Central Library Celebrates the 60th Anniversary of the Concert Series made possible by the Friends of the Central Library. All programs are free and open to the public. This Concert will be approximately one hour long with an intermission and will be held at the Shirley Special Events Suite, 9th Floor at 2:30 p.m. at the Central Library, 300 Park Blvd, downtown in East village, San Diego. This week the Pacific Coast Chorale, directed by Jim Tompkins-MacLaine, presents the fall series finale, a performance of holiday music for the whole family. For information, call 619.236.5800 or visit www.sandiegolibrary.org. n 8th Annual Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade takes place at 3 p.m. Start the route by leaving the Martin Luther King Park and continuing under the iconic Gaslamp Quarter Archway and through the holiday streets. Get those ears perked and tails wagging, because you’re Christmas critters will be competing for bragging rights and festive prizes for various fun categories. The free public Pet Expo is from 1 to 5 p.m. For information, visit www.gaslamp.org. Space is limited. n Old Town San Diego State Historic Park will hold the 65th– annual Las Posadas event. The procession is a walking, reenactment of the biblical story of Mary and Joseph’s search
for a birthplace for Jesus. Everyone is invited to join the candlelit procession, starting at 4:45 p.m. and sing traditional holiday songs in both Spanish and English, as the players go from inn to inn, symbolically asking for lodging. December 13, & 20 n Come and see the Annual Parade of Lights on San Diego Bay from the historic ferryboat Berkeley at the Maritime Museum of San Diego. The parade judges are stationed aboard the steam yacht Medea and the brightly decorated boats pull out all the stops when they pass by. Enjoy a holiday buffet and a no-host bar from 5 to 9. Tickets are $50 for adults and $25 for children ages 6-12, children under 5 are free. Tickets to the buffet and parade include museum admission so come early. Guests who only want to watch the parade can do so for $10 by purchasing museum admission after 6 p.m. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots program. Tickets can be purchased online at www. sdmaritime.org or by calling 619.234.9153 ext. 101. December 14 & 28 n Mission Valley Branch Library, located at 2123 Fenton Parkway, San Diego, presents Baby Signs Story Time from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. by, expert baby sign language instructor Joann Woolley. She will help little ones learn how to sign through favorite stories and nursery thymes. Call 858.573.5007 for information. December 16 thru 20 n California Ballet Company announces the Nutcracker accompanied by the San Diego Symphony at the San Diego Civic Theatre located at 1100 Third Ave, San Diego at 7 p.m. This annual production has entertained audiences for 45 years with Director Maxine Mahon’s playful interpretation America’s favorite holiday ballet. The December 16th showing will be the Military Night at the Nutcracker. The performance will feature pre-show comments from special guests, a color guard and the National Anthem sung live from onstage. Tickets may be purchased at www.NutcrackerSanDiego.com or at 858.560.6741. December 17 n Mt. Soledad Presbyterian Church, located at 6551 Soledad Mountain Road, La Jolla, presents the Pacific Coast Chorale, San Diego’s busiest community choir, for an unprecedented evening of soothing sprits and frolicking fun from some of the different cultures of the Hold Land at 7 p.m. What a wonderful way to start your holiday season. December 18 n Irish Christmas in America will be the headliner at the AMSDconcerts tonight. This show features top Irish music, song and dance in an engaging performance rich in humour and boundless energy. They will perform at 7:30 p.m. at the Laura R. Charles Theater at Sweetwater High School, located at 2900 Highland Avenue in National City. For tickets, please visit www. AMSDconcerts.com. December 19 n theNAT, San Diego National History Museum, at 1788 El Prado, presents Canyoneer Hikes. Free and open to the public, the walk today is from 8 to 10 a.m. and will be at the Balboa Park Centennial Trail: Difficulty–Easy, Distance–2 miles, Elevation Change up to 200 feet. Get complete hiking information at www.sndhm.org. n San Diego Central Library at Joan & Irwin Jacobs Common, located at 330 Park Blvd, presents Sensory Storytime for children ages 4 to 11 from 10:30 to 11 a.m. at Mary Hollis Clark Conference Center (1st floor by the Library Shop). Children who have difficulties in large groups, are on the autism spectrum, or experience sensory overload are welcome to this interactive program. Through a combination of books, songs, movement, and therapeutic activities, children will benefit from learning new skills and socializing with peers. Space is limited to the first 12 families. Register by calling 619.238.6664. n San Diego Central Library at Joan & Irwin Jacobs Common, located at 330 Park Blvd, presents Mrs. Claus’ Holiday Show from 2:30 to 3:15 p.m. at Neil Morgan Auditorium. Mrs. Claus will host a holiday sing-along and dance-along with her ukulele, surprise guest puppets, and more. For information, call 619.238.5800. n Dizzy’s, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, invites you to a Very Mikan Christmas with talented composer/pianist Mikan Zlatkovich & his Quintet. They will present a program of jazz inspired by the Holidays at 8 p.m. Cost is $20; ($15 students). December 20 n Inspirational Power of African Gospel Music takes place at 4 and 7:30 p.m. at the Joe & Vi Jacobs Center, located at 404 Euclid Ave, San Diego. Enjoy the Soweto Gospel Choir with their performances and cultural experiences. December 22 n theNAT, San Diego National History Museum, located at 1788 El Prado, presents Canyoneer Hikes. Free and open to the public, the walk today is from 6 to 7:30 a.m. at the Mission Trails Regional Park (Cowles Mountain Winter Solstice): Difficulty–Difficult plus extra challenges, Distance–3 miles, Elevation Change up to 1000 feet. Get complete hiking information at www.sndhm.org. n Mission Valley Branch Library, located at 2123 Fenton Parkway, San Diego, is holding a Book Club session from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Check out the monthly meeting for our library book club and get in on the fun. The selection for December is “A Christmas Blizzard,” by Garrison Keillor. For information, call 858.573.5007. December 26 n Dizzy’s, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, presents talented jazz drummer Brett Sanders & his soulful ensemble, featuring Kevin Flournoy on piano/keyboard and Tony Muhammad on bass, at 8 p.m. Cost is $15; ($10 students). December 27 n San Diego Central Library at Joan & Irwin Jacobs Common, located at 330 Park Blvd, presents a Ukulele Sing-Along from 2 to 3 p.m. at Sanford Children’s Library (1st floor). Local musicians, Hau’oli Strummers, will lead a family-friendly jam session that includes a variety of favorite songbook tunes. Kids of all ages are invited to sing and dance along, or join in with shakers. For information, call 619.238.5800. n Dizzy’s, located at 4275 Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, presents jazz pianist Paul Keeling and bassist Rob Thorsen for a special evening of interactive, dynamic and open-ended improvisational exploration at 7 p.m. Cost is $15. December 31 n New Year’s Eve on the Bay, Embarcadero–celebrate in style with the Maritime Museum of San Diego at the Black and Gold New Year’s Eve Party. The McKinney deck event center on the historic Steam Ferry Berkeley is being transformed into a classy lounge. Two stages will feature DJ’s Digital Lizards of Doom, Swing Phunk, DJ Ray Chill, Dbear and headliners DJ Mancat and Goose Mavrk. They will keep your feet moving and heart pumping through the night with sweet tunes of electro swing, electronic pop and nu disco. Party runs from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. For information, visit www.sdmaritime.org.
•
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING PRIVATE PARTY AD
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
©
•AD SALES POSITION•
includes personals, items for sale, garage sales & roomates
Commissioned sales position for print, video and website ads.
25 Word Maximum
Join an exciting team and rapidly growing company. Sales experience preferred.
5
$ 00
Call 619.481.9817
BUSINESS LISTING AD
• DONATIONS •
• ENTERTAINMENT •
Pajama Storytime
Dec. 1, 8, 15 and 22 (every Tuesday) from 6:30 to 7 p.m.
Dec. 2 from 3 to 4 p.m.
10 years experience, References,Call Sabrina 619.316.5292
VIDEO PRODUCTION
Video production services from conception to final product. Call 619.296.8731
LEGO Playtime
• STUDIO SPACE •
3500
Dec. 2, 9, 16 and 23 (every Wednesday) from 5 to 6 p.m.
Looking for a studio space to paint, draw or sculpt?
• FITNESS • The Feldenkrais Method® Make any activity more pleasant and effective. You can learn to move with more comfort, strength and skill. Group classes and individual lessons.
Rich Manuccia 619.295.6988
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!
All Classified Ads must be Pre-Paid
Monthly fee: $145 More information please contact: Kirby Kendrick kirby4004@aol.com phone: 505.660.4448
Wonderful recently constructed workshop with bathroom.
A 10 minute drive from Mission Hills Lovely, Airy Environment
600 mo • Call Dr. A
619.295.0878
Lucy Abernathy , Agent CalBRE #815302 at 619.203.7222
1807 Robinson Ave., 204
• WANTED • Wanted to Rent Wanted to rent/share Mission Hills or vicinity studio–guest house–Apt.–granny flat–room. Retired nurse: take care of you, plants, dogs, housesit and other. Call Sandra at 619.297.6480
Even You & 35,000 Potential Customers Would be Reading
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For your goals and transitions. Certified life coach, psychology background. Strong decisions to a centered and fulfilled life are available to everyone. Coaching via Phone or at the Office
Not for living, but for working: • Yoga Studio • Art Studio • Meeting Room • • Woodworking Studio • ect... Parking for 2 cars.
$
December 2015 Events
The “Famous Book” Club will discuss “Snow” by Orhan Pamuk. New members are always welcome to attend and participate. Please read the book beforehand. Books are available at the Circulation Desk while supplies last.
House Pet Sitting
BUSINESS DISPLAY AD 2.25"w x 2.0"h
to place a classified ad
Mission Hills Branch Library
Children are invited to an evening storytime with books, singing, and puppets. Feel free to come dressed in your pajamas.
• SERVICES •
3500
Call 619.296.8731
23
“Famous Book” Club
25-35 Word Maximum
$
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
•POSTAL SERVICES•
includes real estate,help wanted & services $
• VOLUNTEERS •
• OPPORTUNITIES •
Classified
Kids can have fun and get creative while building with LEGOs.
Mission Hills Book Group Dec. 3 from 10 to 11 a.m.
The Mission Hills Book Group will discuss “The Limpopo Academy of Private Detection” by Alexander McCall Smith. New members are always welcome to attend and participate. Please read the book beforehand. Books are available at the Circulation Desk while supplies last.
Preschool Storytime
Dec. 4, 11 and 18 (every Friday) from 10:30 to 11 a.m.
Children are invited to a fun storytime with books, singing, and puppets.
Children’s Craft Time
Your Ad Right Now!
Dec. 5, 12 and 19 (every Saturday) from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Call 619.296.8731
Kids can develop their artistic skills while enjoying a fun craft time.
Signing Storytime
Dec. 7, 14 and 21 (every Monday) from 1:30 to 2:15 p.m.
Find out what’s going on in your baby’s mind, strengthen your bond with your baby, and lessen frustration brought on by miscommunication. Interactive presentation led by Jennifer Duncan also includes sing-alongs and bubble time ending with Q&A period. Age: Birth to 4-years old.
details at
Star r C o aching .com
Walk-In Tablet & Smart Phone Help Dec. 8 from 5 to 6 p.m.
•
RELIGIOUS CALENDAR • UNIVERSAL SPIRIT CENTER
Need help using and understanding your tablet or smart phone? Drop in for assistance with Android and iOS devices, including eBooks, apps, general settings, and other features of your device. Bring your own tablet or smart phone for hands-on learning.
A Center for Spiritual Living
Thursday Afternoon Book Club
Rev. Kevin Bucy, Senior Minister 858 Front Street(at University and Front Streets) San Diego, CA 92103 Extra parking across the street at Florence Schoolwww. universalspiritcenter.org.
The Thursday Afternoon Book Club will discuss short stories by Anton Chekhov. New members are always welcome to attend and participate. Please read the stories beforehand. Books are available at the Circulation Desk while supplies last.
Dec. 10 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
619.291.4728
Read to Therapy Dogs Dec. 12 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
SUNDAY MORNING GATHERINGS
Kids can improve their reading skills by reading aloud to therapy dogs.
8:00 a.m. Meditative with full message 10:00 a.m. Music-filled gathering
Mission Hills Poetry Club
(with Youth Ministry available)
Dec. 12 at 1 p.m.
11:30 a.m. Music-filled gathering
Kadampa Meditation Center 3125 Rosecrans Street, Bldg. B 619.230.5852
Meditation Classes most Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. & Saturday at 4 p.m. Kids & Families Sundays at 9 a.m. Prayers for World Peace Sundaysat 10:30 a.m. Simply Meditate MWF 12 to 12:45; TT 12:15 to 12:45 p.m
More classes and events listed on our website: www.meditateinsandiego.com
The Mission Hills Poetry Club will discuss three poems. You also have the option of writing and discussing your own poem. New members are always welcome to attend and participate. Please ask library staff for the poems and writing prompts.
Music & Holiday Party with Mrs. Clause Dec. 16 at 6:30 p.m.
The whole family is invited to a holiday party with music performed by Mrs. Santa Clause.
Free Spirit the Clown
Dec. 18 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Children are invited to a holiday celebration with Free Spirit the Clown, who will do holiday-themed face painting and create balloon animals.
Book Sale
Dec. 19 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The Friends of the Mission Hills Branch Library will hold a book sale. 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
PresidioSentinel.com
24 Directory Civic Calendar
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
©
Hillcrest
1st Tuesday
Uptown Planners Joyce Beers Hall in Uptown Mall. 6:30 p.m.
1st Thursday
Uptown Partnership 3101 Fifth Ave. Call 619.298.2541. 4:30 p.m.
Thursdays 7–8:30 pm
San Diego Uptown Rotary Club The Uptown Rotary Club has moved to their new home at Jimmy Carter’s Mexican Cafe, 3172 Spruce at the corner of 5th. Breakfast meetings are held every Thursday 7 to 8:30 a.m. Guests are welcome to attend a meeting to learn how to become part of this dynamic organization and see why their motto is “Service Above Self.” For information, visit www. sdurotary.org or call 619.894.0140.
Kensington-Talmadge 2nd Wednesday
Kensington-Talmadge Planning Committee Kensington Community Church. 6:30 p.m. For information, call 619.284.0551
Linda Vista
2nd Monday
LVCPC Agenda– Linda Vista Community Planning Committee Agenda Linda Vista Library meeting room. Contact Jeff Perwin at 619.806.9559 for details 6 pm.
3rd Tuesday
Tech Committee–Technology Committee Bayside Community Center. Contact Xiogh Thao for detail at 858.278.0771 or email xthao@baysidecc. org or Info@lindavistaSD.org or visit our website www.lindavistaSD.org.
3rd Wednesday
LV Historical– Linda Vista Historical Committee Bayside Community Center. This committee is collecting historical photos, documents and memories of Linda Vista’s past. For more information, contact Eleanor Frances Sennet at 858.277.3817. 4 p.m. LVCollab– Linda Vista Collaborative Bayside Community Center at 3pm. Contact Monica Fernandez at 858.278.0771 or mfernandez@ baysidecc.org. For details visit www.facebook. com/LVCollaborative
This Space is Waiting for Your Ad...
Salon Services
Trained in New York & Europe Serving Mission Hills Since 1980
4141 Park Blvd. San Diego, CA 92130
619.366.0698
3rd Wednesday (Odd Months)
TCCAC– Tecolote Canyon Citizen’s Advisory Committee Tecolote Nature Center. Contact Eloise Battle for details. 7 p.m.
3rd Thursday
Linda Vista Town Council Baha’i Faith Center Alcala Knoll Drive Contact Thomas Kaye 858.277.6793 at 6:30 p.m.
4th Monday
LVCPC– Linda Vista Community Planning Committee Linda Vista Library Meeting Room. Contact Ed Cramer at 619.222.2047 for details. 7:00 p.m.
4th Wednesday
LVPC– Linda Vista Planning Committee Monthly Meeting Linda Vista Library Meeting Room at 6 pm. Contact Jeff Perwin 619.806.9559 for details, minutes and agenda at www.LindaVistaSD.com. Linda Vista View Linda Vista Town Council Community Newsletter Contact Thomas Kaye at 858.278.6973
Various Wednesdays
LVNewsletter– Linda Vista View Civic Association Community Newsletter. Bayside Community Center. Contact Sarah Granby at 858.405.7135 or email sgranby@lvca-sd.org. 2:00 p.m.
Mission Hills
December, 2015
Mission Hills Garden Club There will not be a meeting in December. The next meeting will be in January 2016. The meeting will be at the Mission Hills Church at 4070 Jackdaw from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Members are free; guests pay $10 which becomes part of the membership fee if they join that evening. For more information, visit www. missionhillsgardenclub.org.
Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach Planning Board Ocean Beach Recreation Center, 4726 Santa Monica Ave. Call 619.523.1700. 7–9:30 p.m.
4th Wednesday
Ocean Beach Town Council Ocean Beach Recreation Center, 4726 Santa Monica Avenue. Call Jere Battan at 619.515.4400 for information. 7 p.m.
Point Loma
December 9, 2015
Point Loma Garden Club Monthly Meeting Annual Holiday Tea and Bazaar–Open to the public 10 a.m. to noon. Specialty holiday fresh and dried decorations, crafts and homemade delectables–all lovingly created by Point Loma Garden Club members–are for sale. Come find the perfect table centerpieces, wreaths and swags for your home and special gifts for hostesses, friends and family. Proceeds benefit student scholarships. Portuguese Hall, 2818 Avenida de Portugal, San Diego, CA 92106. More information is available at www.plgc.org.
PresidioSentinel.com
Put Your Name In Front of 35,000 Potential Customers! For more information, Call 619.296.8731
A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2015
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Pacific Beach
Alvarado Estates
Imperial Beach
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$499,000
$1,942,000
$1,025,000
$1,600,000
3506 Del Rey Street
4902 Toyoff Way
708 Seacoast Drive
Pacific Beach detached home 2/1 with wood floors, garage and more!
Alvarado estates luxury, 4,800 square foot home with gorgeous grounds !
Oceanfront mixed use vacation rental (3 Bedroom/2 bath) PLUS large retail condo downstairs. 3 levels and ocean views steps to the beach!
See more details at www.SDHomePro.com
See more details at www.SDHomePro.com
SCHNEEWEISS PROPERTIES
See more details at www.SDHomePro.com
SCHNEEWEISS PROPERTIES
JONATHAN SCHNEEWEISS J.D., LL.M. Broker Voted in San Diego Magazine’s,
SCHNEEWEISS PROPERTIES
JONATHAN SCHNEEWEISS J.D., LL.M. Broker Voted in San Diego Magazine’s,
“Best in Client Satisfaction,” 2008—2015
JONATHAN SCHNEEWEISS J.D., LL.M. Broker Voted in San Diego Magazine’s,
“Best in Client Satisfaction,” 2008—2015
“2013, Finalist for San Diego Broker of the Year.”
“Best in Client Satisfaction,” 2008—2015
“2013, Finalist for San Diego Broker of the Year.”
BRE# 01378508 • 619.279.3333
“2013, Finalist for San Diego Broker of the Year.”
BRE# 01378508 • 619.279.3333
Ocean Beach
BRE# 01378508 • 619.279.3333
North Park
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Live in the heart of Little Italy. This 1/1 721 esf. unit in Palermo is on the top floor and features a private balcony and in-unit laundry. Near restaurants, cafes, and shopping.
Maureen and Antoinette
Maureen and Antoinette
Maureen and Antoinette
619.800.1103
619.800.1103
619.800.1103
Balboa Park
Mission Hills
Mission Hills
BRE# 01378508 • 619.279.3333
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
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S $4,500,000
4320 Avalon Drive
Eight years ago, Whitney-Balsamo set the record in assisting this “92103” seller to be the first to obtain $4,000,000! You only get to sell once, MAXIMIZE that opportunity! W-B focused on QUALITY service, NOT QUANTITY of sales!
2015, Whitney-Balsamo assisted in setting a new record sale price for a “92103” residence... this 6000 sq ft palace in the sky! Sellers TRULY appreciate real estate brokers who actually bring them a platinum buyer, as W-B did for this spectacular residence!
Whitney & Balsamo
Whitney & Balsamo
Pacific | Sotheby’s International Realty CalBRE# 00766752 • CalBRE# 01051230
619 .8 5 5 .5 2 11
North Mission Hills
$2,250,000
2500 6th Avenue #1106
Pacific | Sotheby’s International Realty CalBRE# 00766752 • CalBRE# 01051230
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
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Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
“Best in Client Satisfaction,” 2008—2015
$4,000,000
1501 Front Street #637
Immaculate 1 bedroom unit on the 2nd floor. New laminate flooring, freshly painted throughout, ready to move in ASAP! This gated community offers a secured bike room, spacious laundry facilities, and optional storage. 1 assigned parking space in alley. Dishwasher, crown molding, granite counters, ceiling fans. Act now and you’ll celebrate the holidays in your own place!
“2013, Finalist for San Diego Broker of the Year.”
Mission Hills
4180 Louisiana Street #2J
Little Italy’s best kept secret is the community of Bella Via. Located in the heart of vibrant Little Italy, this neighborhood has it all. The 1 bedroom “plus” unit is on the 2nd floor with a spacious balcony that lets you see all the fun. Fully equipped with high-quality furnishings of the Craftsman style. Granite, marble, stainless, in-unit laundry, and a secured parking space. This unit is available starting December 1st, 2015 for a one year lease. The rent is $2,395 per month.
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JONATHAN SCHNEEWEISS J.D., LL.M. Broker Voted in San Diego Magazine’s,
$359,000
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SCHNEEWEISS PROPERTIES
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See more details at www.SDHomePro.com
BRE# 01378508 • 619.279.3333
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3 bedroom/2.5 bath 5 blocks to the ocean and across from the recreation center park.
“Best in Client Satisfaction,” 2008—2015
“2013, Finalist for San Diego Broker of the Year.”
Little Italy
$215,000
1608 India Street #208
JONATHAN SCHNEEWEISS J.D., LL.M. Broker Voted in San Diego Magazine’s,
en
4684 Saratoga Ave.
SCHNEEWEISS PROPERTIES
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$ 2,395 per month
Units A, B, C & D.
Representing buyers for all 4 units in Imperial Beach. Each listed at $435,000. For rent now: $2,595+/month, 3 bed/2.5 bath and brand new!
Li Ne st w in g
Little Italy
$870,000
1331 Holly Ave
619.855.5211
$3,995,000
4021 Miller Street
4040 Miller Street
Whitney-Balsamo had the privilege of selling this magnificent Henry Hester designed contemporary this year... the FOURTH time for them to sell this special residence! 36 years of cultivated respect in the “92103” community! Call us before signing a listing contract!
Whitney & Balsamo
Pacific | Sotheby’s International Realty CalBRE# 00766752 • CalBRE# 01051230
619.855. 5211
North Mission Hills
$999,000
$995,000
Whitney & Balsamo
Pacific | Sotheby’s International Realty CalBRE# 00766752 • CalBRE# 01051230
619. 855. 5211
Mission Hills
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North Mission Hills
A Mediterranean-style Masterpiece that stands alone in its position of Residential Art form in “The Hills”! Every inch is perfection defined! 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, pool, stupendous views! Incomparable!
$995,000
2314 Fort Stockton Drive
1994 Titus Street
Charming 3 BR/2 BA Spanish with Quiet canyon cul-de-sac location with sweeping city and blue water views. large 2-car garage. Tastefully updated. Over 2,000 square feet plus a 400 Serene patio spaces. square foot view deck. Call Jim Scott, Broker CalBRE #830226 at 619.920.9511
Real Estate
Call Jim Scott, Broker CalBRE #830226 at 619.920.9511
4420 Trias Street
This sunny bungalow features a spacious outdoor kitchen, patio, and a striking outdoor fireplace. Located on a premium street in North Mission Hills, this home is the perfect expression of the California outdoor lifestyle. Located at 4420 Trias Street, this two-bedroom, two bath home is listed for $995,000.
Call Jim Scott, Broker CalBRE #830226 at 619.920.9511
$1,575,000
1835 Altura Place
First time offered since 1972, 1835 Altura Place is a 3286 square foot Craftsman home. The location is one of the best in Mission Hills. 4 large bedrooms, including one on the main level. The woodwork is exceptional! Call Jim Scott, Broker CalBRE #830226 at 619.920.9511
All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention, to make any preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of this law. Our readers hereby informedthat all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD Toll-Free at 1-800.669.9777. The Toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800.927.9275
PresidioSentinel.com
North Mission Hills • 3950 Alameda Place • $1,550,000 lassic Mission Hills home, 5 Bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Large canyon lot with a huge flat back yard. Very rare 100 feet of street frontage. Secluded and quiet street, this home offers pleasant canyon views. A very functional layout with a bedroom and full bathroom on the main level. Large and usuable basement perfect for storage or an office.
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Call Jim Scott, Broker, CalBRE #830226 at 619.920.9511 • j i m @ s q r e . c o m
North Mission Hills • 1003 Hunter Street • $775,000 ake the time to see this classic Craftsman cottage on a quiet street in highly desirable north Mission Hills. 2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath, plus a front parlor room. The well-designed, bright and open kitchen and bathroom are both very recent additions to this wonderful bungalow. French doors in the dining room open to a deck that is perfect for outdoor dining. Another deck off the kitchen flows into the backyard for more great outdoor entertaining.
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Call James Hardy, Agent, CalBRE #01076819 at 619.204.9511 • j h a r d y @ s q r e . c o m Scott & Quinn has two offices, in Mission Hills at 1111 Fort Stockton Drive, in South Park at 2973 Beech Street, and has sixteen agents. The company also features Scott & Quinn Property Management. Founded in 1982, Scott & Quinn is the oldest full service real estate firm in Mission Hills and is still locally owned and operated. Jim has been a homeowner in Mission Hills since 1976.
Jim Scott, Broker, CalBRE #830226, 619.920.9511 www.JimScottHomes.com
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