Presidio Sentinel, Nov. 2018, Vol. 19, No. 12w

Volume 19, No. 12w

“The Nutcracker” Returns to the Casa Del Prado Theater page 6

Toys for Joys Serves Thousands

4

San Diego State Historic Parks Hosts Las Posadas

12

Wacky Wonky Wonderland Event

13

The Perfect Place to Purchase Holiday Gifts

15

PresidioSentinel.com•

A Publication by Presidio Communications• ©MMXVIII

December 2018 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:

General Inquiry: info@presidiosentinel.com

Advertising: ads@presidiosentinel.com

3

The Amusing Aspects of Aging

Fleet Science Center Hosts Winter Science Camps

9

16

Our Hearts Are Filled With Gratitude

10

Winter Jazzerland a Holiday Festival Concert

Fashion Week San Diego at the Lux Art Institute

17

Salute the Season at Liberty Station

Featured Stories

6

11

A Festive Flair for the Holidays

10

Cygnet Theatre Presents “A Christmas Carol”

14

Featured Events

A Little Generosity Can Go a Long Way This Christmas Season

By Patty Ducey-Brooks It’s almost impossible to tell people to enjoy the Christmas and holiday season without getting a look of, “Are you kidding?

That’s because we make this the time of the year to pack as much activity in to our lives as possible. Shopping tops the list, with parties and decorating following.

However, if we allow ourselves to be reflective of the season, no matter what our religion, we might be able to take time to relax and be present at the moment, to take in what we are meant to be doing.

We should be enjoying each other and the gifts of kindness and goodwill. In this issue of the Presidio Sentinel, there are several organizations that have initiated events to do exactly that, to create and spread goodwill. Toys for Joys on page three is a reminder of what our generosity can accomplish. Last year, this program donated 21,927 toys to needy children and 11,812 bags of groceries to families across the county.

We applaud Pastor Miles McPherson of the Rock Church who began this program 21 years ago. His vision and commitment, and the effort of the church, have created lots of goodwill this season of giving.

Then on page 13, the Wacky Wonky Wonderland event is also a program to spread goodwill and generosity. Admission to this event is a new unwrapped toy or $25 gift card to benefit the San Diego Center for Children.

What child doesn’t want to have a new gift on Christmas?

This organization is dedicated to making this a special season of giving.

Also on this year’s “nice” list is Belmont Park. You are invited to experience the joyous season by the beach as the park transforms with a festive beach-style winter spirit and activities. In partnership with The Salvation Army, Belmont Park will participate in a Free Ride Toy Drive from Saturday, December 1 through Sunday, December 16. With a donation of one unwrapped, brand new toy, guests will receive one free ride of choice. Toys must have a minimum $5 value to redeem a free ride. One ride per person is offered upon redemption.

The Salvation Army donates to those in need throughout the holidays because of your contributions.

As you can see, we can be joyful and enjoy the holiday season of giving and goodwill while doing acts of kindness for those in need.

At the same time, throughout this issue, you will see some of the extremely exciting events that the various groups and organizations have prepared to share with the community, including “The Nutcracker” performed by the San Diego Civic Youth Ballet, the Hanukkah and Menorah Lighting ceremony at Liberty Station, Jingle Ball at the San Diego Zoo, Santa and skating at Liberty Station, Las Posadas in Old Town San Diego, and “A Christmas Carol” at Cygnet Theatre in Old Town.

There is much to do this season. So, take time to gift others in need, as well as enjoy the fruits of their labors and the goodwill of those who want to make this a joyous Christmas and holiday season.•

PresidioSentinel.com •

4

Local News

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

Toy s for Joy Serves Thousands of San Diego Families With

Toys, Food & Clothing On Saturday, December 8, 21,000 people are expected to attend the 22nd annual Toys for Joy event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is located at three locations, including Lincoln High School, Cajon Valley Middle School, and Guajome Park Academy.

Twenty-one years in the running, families start lining up as early as 3 p.m. the day before, for an opportunity to receive toys, clothing and groceries for the holidays. Now more than ever, Toys for Joy has become a tradition that San Diego families count on every December, meeting the needs of thousands.

“Toys for Joy represents the best of San Diego’s giving spirit. It brings together residents and neighbors from across our city to share in the joy of the holiday season and provide for those among us who are less fortunate,” said Mayor Kevin L. Faulconer.

Toys for Joy is more than just a toy. Not only will children, from birth to 11 year’s old receive a free toy, but families will have the opportunity to receive free lunch, gently-used clothing (at the Lincoln site), groceries, hair cuts, activities and more. Many volunteers, sponsors, and community partners work together to spread pervasive hope through this significant event.

In tough economic times, everyone needs hope. Of San Diego County’s 3.2 million residents, 486,000 people face food insecurity every day. Of this number, 163,000 are children. Nearly 19 percent of San Diego County’s children are living in poverty, according to KidsData.org. An analysis of two Census Bureau surveys—one conducted between 2006 and 2010, and the other between 2011 and 2015—shows that the countywide poverty rate grew from 12.3 to 14.5 percent. That’s an increase of 94,000 people living on incomes below the poverty line, enough to fill two Petco Park Stadiums.

During the holiday season, it is even more difficult for families to provide toys and clothing for their families without sufficient funds and resources.

Toys for Joy brings hope by providing a toy, clothing, lunch and groceries to those in need. These toys are a way to change the lives of families in San Diego, and fulfill the main mission of the church to bring people together and transform the lives of San Diego by sharing the meaning of Christmas.

“More than ever, people need to step up and help those who are in need this year,” said McPherson. “Christmas is a time when God showed His love for us, and we’re ready to show God’s love in the communities where we live and serve. That’s the purpose of the church.”

The event has grown to toys, food, clothing, and more. Last year alone, Toys for Joy gave away over 21,927 toys, 11,812 bags of groceries, 279,000 articles of clothing and shoes to brighten the lives of many San Diego kids.

This event is free and open to the community.

To make a difference in the life of a child this Christmas, there are four ways to be part of Toys for Joy. There are the following ways that the community can participate: Give: Purchase a toy from the online wish list at toys-for-joy.org/toys.

Partner: Monetary and/or in-kind gifts can be contributed online at toysfor-joy.org/donate.

Invite: Invite a friend or family that you know that could benefit from this event. www.toys-for-joy.org/events.

Volunteer: Sign up to volunteer with family and friends at toys-for-joy.org/ volunteers.

Toys for Joy was founded by Pastor Miles McPherson of the Rock Church in 1996 to partner with local churches and community businesses and serve Southeastern San Diego. For the past 21 years, Toys for Joy has impacted thousands of lives through volunteers that provide toys, clothing, and food, in addition to health and community services. For more information, visit www.toys-for-joy.org.•

Holiday elves stand before a wall of toys donated to support the annual Toys for Joy program.

• PresidioSentinel.com

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

A

New Year & New Hope

By George Mitrovich

The publisher of this newspaper, Patty Ducey-Brooks, asked her contributors if we would write something positive for the New Year?

I can do that, by first pointing out a political fact: The Democratic Party will hold as many as 240 seats in the House of Representatives when the 115th Congress convenes January 3.

The Framers intended a system of checks and balances for this Republic in 1776, and the system they designed has worked to create a very great nation, despite trial and error; despite competent and incompetent presidents; despite legislative bodies that were forward looking and others that thwarted progress; despite an enlightened Supreme Court, except when it wasn’t—Dred Scott and Citizens United, come to mind.

Since I’m a Democrat, you would expect me to be buoyed by the results in the House, one of the largest swings in election history, and I am. But not because I’m a Democrat, but because I’m a patriot , and I love my country more than party.

As a patriot I believe other patriots should also exult in the by-election, that by changing control of the House a check is put on Donald Trump, because an unchecked Trump is a clear and present danger to the well being of our country, as the past two years have demonstrated.

Of course, hard core Trumpians, the 30-35 percent of the country that remain loyal to him, no matter what he does, no matter what he says, no matter how odious his behavior, will believe the election results a disaster for their president and our country, but they believe that in their ignorance and because they have sipped too deeply of the Kool-Aid. All of us, Trumpians and the author of these words, would be well served to remember the famous counsel by the late Senator from New York, Daniel Patrick Moynihan, who said, “Everyone is entitled to their own opinions, but they are not entitled to their own facts.”

I wasn’t going to be able to compose this column, per the request of Ms. Ducey-Brooks, without writing the above, because what occurred election day changed the dire outlook many of us had about America with Trump in the White House and his party controlling both House and Senate. With that over, we move on.

Thus, I want to fulfill Ms. Ducey-Brooks’ request and to tell you, Dear Reader, I’m feeling better about 2019.

But politics is not the whole of my life, so let me share a truly upbeat, positive story, even though it arises from a great, great, tragedy, the northern California fire that burned down the town of Paradise—a catastrophe so vast as to be beyond one’s ability to comprehend.

Bob Wilson, who lives in Rancho Santa Fe, is one of the principals in the six high quality California restaurants known as Fish Market. He’s also a member of the First United Methodist Church of San Diego, where I see him most Sundays, sitting in his normal pew, across the aisle from where my wife and I sit.

George Mitrovich is a San Diego civic leader. He may be reached at gmitro35@gmail.com.

Local News

5

Mine Eyes Have Seen George Mitrovich

Recently, there was a page one story about him in the Union-Tribune.

The story was in response to the Union-Tribune learning that Mr. Wilson had decided to give one million dollars to the students, faculty, custodial help, and administrators of Paradise High School, which burned down, along with everything else in that terrible fire—as nothing was left standing.

He made his decision to do this on a personal level, wanting, he told the Union-Tribune, to avoid the bureaucracy he finds in too many charitable organizations.

Mr. Wilson will journey to northern California and meet with those young people and others from Paradise High and personally give each one of them checks for $1,000.

He will do this because he’s a moral person and a man of principle, but most importantly, Bob Wilson is a man of faith, a Christian who believes— truly believes—it is more blessed to give than to receive.

I learned something else about this lovely man from reading the UnionTribune story; something I didn’t know, despite worshipping with him on Sundays and knowing him these many years: When the Fish Market in downtown San Diego burned in the summer of 2015, its 273 employees were out of work, but Mr. Wilson decided his employees would be fully paid while the restaurant on San Diego bay was being rebuilt.

Did you read that?

He decided his employees would not want for a paycheck while Fish Market was closed.

And when Fish Market reopened in August of that year, 270 of its employees returned to work!

And wouldn’t you want to continue working for a person like Bob Wilson?

(I’ve spoken to some of the employees at the Solana Beach Fish Market, and I can tell you, they love this man.)

I’m sure the publicity he’s received from his act of generosity to those in Paradise, is an embarrassment to him, but I’m thrilled the story is out, because we live in a time of political turmoil, a time when one man, Donald Trump, dominates the 24/7 news cycle and it’s possible to wonder, as Peggy Lee sang, “Is that all there is?”

And the resounding answer is—No! Because every day in your America and mine, there are millions who give of their time and means to help those in need. They can’t donate a million dollars like Bob Wilson, but they do what is possible, and by their acts of kindness and generosity keep alive the flame of hope that our country will remain, what William Bradford foresaw in the Mayflower Compact—that “City upon a Hill.”

Happy New Year!•

PresidioSentinel.com •

6 Local News A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018 Winter Jazzerland a Holiday Festival Concert ©

Chill out with Camarada and local jazz artists from 6:30 to 8 p.m., Sunday, December 2 while taking in familiar holiday tunes with a Peter Sprague twist amongst a cool car collection at the San Diego Automotive Museum in Balboa Park, located at 2080 Pan American Plaza. Young local songwriters join us for “Winter Wonderland,” “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire,” “A Life That’s Good,” “The First Noel” and the famous “Hallelujah.” You will not want to miss this unique evening of jazz and cars.

“It’s the holiday season and we are getting together to celebrate all of the beautiful human beings on this planet earth,” said Peter Sprague.

Performing during the evening will be Peter Sprague, guitar; Nina Francis and Savannah Philyaw, vocals; Beth Ross Buckley, flute; Bridget Dolkas, violin; Gunnar Biggs, bass; and Duncan Moore on drums.

For tickets, visit camarada.readertickets.com/events/55387927/holiday-fest-winter-jazzerland.•

Patty Ducey-Brooks Publisher

Ilene Hubbs Associate Editor

Michal A. Tuzinkiewicz Creative/Art 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

Camarada will create a musical, holiday extravaganza with a talented group of artists.

Photo courtesy of Monique Feil Photography.

Hanukkah & Menorah Lighting Liberty Station in Point Loma is holding a Hanukkah and Menorah lighting ceremony to take place in the Central Promenade at Liberty Station on Monday, Dec. 3 from 5 to 9 p.m. In partnership with the Chabad Centers of Pacific Beach and Downtown, Liberty Station invites the community to celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah with an early evening Menorah lighting event.

Enjoy a night of music, photo opportunities, and more to celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah. Live entertainment will also be offered to guests.•

Philip C. Lee

at Liberty Station

Alice Lowe Aubree Lynn George Mitrovich Fausto Palafox David Rottenberg Anne Sack Barbara Strona Charlotte Tenney Laura Walcher

Guests will join to enjoy an evening music and entertaining and the Menorah lighting event.

“The Nutcracker”Returns to the Casa Del Prado Theater Take an extraordinary journey to the magical Land of the Sweets with Clara and her Nutcracker Prince at the San Diego Civic Youth Ballet’s annual production of “The Nutcracker,” which runs from December 12 through 23 at the Casa Del Prado Theater at 1800 Village Place in Balboa Park.

Witness an epic battle between toy soldiers and mice before being whisked away to an enchanting land of falling snow, waltzing flowers, and the dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.

Directed by Artistic Director Danika Pramik-Holdaway and set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, Clara takes a wild journey in “The Nutcracker.” this classic holiday production is a Photo is courtesy of Zachary Barron. beloved San Diego family tradition presented at the iconic Casa del Prado Theater. After over 70 years of ballet in Balboa Park, experiencing SDCYB is not only is a chance to celebrate the holidays and a love for dance, but also an opportunity to be a part of the San Ilene Hubbs is on Diego legacy and support arts education. sabbatical this month Tickets are now available at www.sdcyb.org. Also, during SDCYB’s normal and will rejoin us business hours, tickets may be purchased over the phone at 619.233.3060 with a later issue. and in person at the Casa del Prado, Suite 209.•

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.

Presidio Sentinel 325 W. Washington Steet, Suite 2-181, San Diego, California 92103 For more information or space reservation, call

619.296.8731 fax: 619.295.1138

office:

Ilene Hubbs

• PresidioSentinel.com

email: ppsentinel@aol.com site: presidiosentinel.com A Publication of Presidio Communications

©

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

Animal News

7

Jungle Bells Festivities

Return to the San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo guests are invited to ring in the holiday season with the Zoo’s annual celebration, Jungle Bells presented by California Coast Credit Union. The jubilant festivities will begin Dec. 14, 2018, and run through Jan. 6, 2019, treating guests to seasonal decorations, animal experiences, costumed characters, lighted displays and live entertainment—including our zany Dr. Zoolittle and the jolly elf himself—Santa. The San Diego Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. during this event, with the exception of Dec. 24, when the Zoo closes at 5 p.m. Jungle Bells activities and attractions are free with Zoo admission or membership.

Guests can also watch as animals enjoy unique enrichment treats, while sampling delicious indulgences of their own from the Zoo’s many restaurants and food stands. Don’t miss out on holiday shopping at the Zoo’s retail locations, or the holiday happy hour at Albert’s Restaurant—Happy Holidays Happens—with discounted drinks and appetizers available from 3 to 5 p.m. each day of Jungle Bells.

The San Diego Zoo, located just north of downtown San Diego in Balboa Park. Parking is free.•

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

Expires 12.31.2018

The San Diego Zoo is filled with colorful lights and additional entertainment during Jingle Bells.

help us find a home Bee is an adorable, American pit bull terrier mix and is looking for a loving home where she’ll be given the time she needs to build confidence with new people and new situations. This cutie can get a little overwhelmed with meeting people but she’s made so much progress in our care, and given time she will show you her sweet and lovable personality.

Bee is spayed 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.

Bee is available at our non-public Sherman Street campus. If you are interested in meeting her, please call 619.299.7012 or visit the San Diego Campus at at 5500 Gaines Street in San Diego. For information, visit www.sdhumane.org.

Reese is a beautiful senior kitty who has struggled to adapt to shelter life. Change can be really challenging for more sensitive-souled creatures, and so we hope that Reese can find a loving home where she’ll be given the time she needs to adjust and build trust.

Once she is able to do that, you’ll see her sweet and sassy personality come shining through!

Reese’s adoption fee includes her spay, current vaccinations, permanent microchip identification, a certificate for a free veterinary exam, waived enrollment fee for medical insurance from TruPanion, and a license if residing in Escondido, San Marcos, Poway, Oceanside, and Vista.

Reese is currently residing at the Oceanside Campus of the San Diego Humane Society, located at 572 Airport Road in Oceanside. For information, call 619.299.7012 or visit www.sdhumane.org.

SPCA PresidioSentinel.com •

8

Lifestyle

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

Now’s the Time to Recommit to

By Blake Beckcom

Your Goals & Finish the Year Strong

Why wait until January 1 to become focused on your health and wellness goals? Believe it or not, now is as good of a time as any to dust off your resolutions that you made at the beginning of 2018 and make sure you complete them before the year comes to a close.

If you’ve found the busyness of work, family, and life obligations have gotten in the way of your healthy objectives for the year, stop-right now-and take the steps to change course.

Here’s how to do it, today…

1. Toss the junk. Rid your pantry and work snack drawer of junk. While you can’t control what other people are eating, you can control what you’re eating. If there are chips, candy and inviting unhealthy sugar— laden treats in your own home, car, bag or desk, then today is the day to get rid of it all. Put it all in the break-room for others to eat, donate it to a food bank or just accept it all needs to be gone and toss it all in the trash. Once it’s gone, don’t buy it again.

2. Write down your SMART goals. Did you say “I want to lose weight” this year as a goal? How about switching up that statement to be a SMART goal that you can strive for through the end of the year, with a measurable result. Try this… “I want to work out for 45 minutes four days a week, every week, through the end of December 2018.” Even though this goal doesn’t talk about weight loss, it is tangible, and you can attack it head on. Try writing down just two-to-three SMART goals for the rest of the year and pin that paper up on your fridge, mirror and computer screen.

3. Tell others and find a healthy buddy. While your Fitness Together trainer will be there to help you stay motivated during your workouts, it’s also great to find another friend who wants to recommit to being healthy throughout the remainder of the year (and beyond, of course). Find someone who wants to try out healthy restaurants and let those around you know you’re focused on exercising and eating mostly healthy food, so they can support you and try not to steer you off course.

While you don’t need to be perfect in your effort, it’s important to make small changes in the right direction. And won’t it feel good going into the new year on track to make 2019 your healthiest year yet? With these steps, you can set yourself up for success right now to be a healthier and happier you this year and next. Good luck!

Creating Your Best Retirement

By Rick Brooks

Though things around us of late may seem, and actually are at times out of control, we need to choose to focus on what we can control. We can control our nutritional choices, which by and large control our moods. We know that being mindful of nutrition can lead to better outlooks, because we have more fuel in the tank to deal with life. Our thought life, if left unchecked, can control us and since foods have an impact on our mood, it seems practical to focus there. And, we can control how we move. Movement has a cascading effect on our entire wellbeing. It is well stated, “A body in motion, stays in motion.”

You can do it.• 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.

Isn’t All About Money

A 2014 study of retirees done by Merrill Lynch and Age Wave led to the following conclusion: “Retirees say health is the number one ingredient for a happy retirement.” Financial security, family and purpose were all important, but health was tops. And this makes perfect sense, as good health leads to living longer, having more energy and being able to do more with your free time.

Another (related) conclusion of the study was that health care expenses were the number one concern, regardless of income bracket. As Congress debates more changes to our health care system, that angst isn’t going away. So what can you do to make your retirement healthy, wealthy and wise?

Six Quick Tips for a Happy, Healthy Retirement It starts with good health. It sound so simple, but it’s true. Healthy habits are critical to staying healthy and getting the most enjoyment out of your retirement years. Cut back on salt, fat and sugar and eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and other beneficial ingredients. Working exercise into your daily routine is also critical to reducing the risk of dementia. Avoid smoking, red meat and excessive drinking.

Keep stress to a minimum. Chronic stress can damage your immune system and leave your body more susceptible to disease. Ditching the morning alarm clock has got to be a great stress reducer, but try other ways to simplify your life and reduce complexity. We often recommend simplifying your finances, but just having a plan can also help to reduce your stress level. Experts also recommend taking up new hobbies and getting good at them, like fishing or gardening.

Stay socially active. Every study I’ve read about retirement health centers on having strong networks of friends and family: social interactions are critical to better mental and physical health. That doesn’t mean becoming the talk of the town; even regular meals with close companions can stimulate better brain health. Activities that combine physical, mental and social elements may be most likely to prevent dementia, according to research presented by the Alzheimer’s Association. This can include volunteering with a charity, joining clubs or taking classes.

Exercise your brain. Keeping your mind active and engaged is just as important as keeping your body running smoothly. Activities like

• PresidioSentinel.com

4. Book your workouts. Call your Fitness Together personal trainer and recommit to your regular weekly sessions. Get those training sessions scheduled on the calendar a month in advance, so that you can work on building strength, mobility and cardiovascular health to help you feel amazing to enter 2019. If you’re already working with your trainer regularly, then add an extra session each week to up your game for the rest of the year. If you do not have a trainer, and think you can do it Blake & Gwen Beckcom solo, book your training sessions on your day timer and show up for them. Hold yourself accountable and get after it! The hardest part of any fitness program is starting and once started; showing up.

dancing, board games, crossword puzzles and reading are great mental exercises that keep the synapses active. Other creative activities like knitting, painting, gardening and travel may also help to reduce the risk of dementia.

Positive mental attitude. Satchel Paige said “How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you was?” Research at both Harvard and Yale has shown that mental attitude can have a strong impact on the quality of your retirement. Other ways to help stay positive include spending time with grandkids and getting a pet. It may sound silly, but pets (especially dogs) contribute to well—being on a number of levels, from exercise to just simply comfort.

Have a plan. Okay, I realize this one might be a touch self—serving, but planning for retirement really helps. This isn’t just addressing financial questions like whether you can afford to retire. It includes having a plan for how you will spend your time, so you don’t feel lost or adrift. More importantly, planning for retirement helps you to make tough decisions early on, especially when it comes to finances or health emergencies. The more prepared you are for something, the less stressful the reality becomes.

Talking with your spouse about expectations and hopes during retirement is a great first—step to ensuring as smooth a transition as possible.

Find experts you can trust Working with a fee—only Certified Financial Planner® professional (who isn’t compensated based on commissions) to help you prepare for retirement and even take some of the burden off your shoulders. One of the things that tend to happen as we age is that complex transactions become more difficult to analyze and manage. Finding a professional advisor whom you can trust early on will not only help you prepare for your next stage in life, it will also make someone available for years to come who knows you well and can help guide you through some of the difficult challenges that will arise.• This column is prepared by Rick Brooks, CFA®, CFP®. Brooks is director/Investment Management with Blankinship & Foster, LLC, a wealth advisory firm specializing in financial planning and investment management for people preparing for retirement.

Brooks can be reached at 858.755.5166, or by email at rbrooks@bfadvisors.com.

Brooks and his family live in Mission Hills.

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

The

Lifestyle

9

Amusing Aspects of Aging

By Barb Strona

People complain about getting older.

They hate the way they look, the way they feel, the way they are treated.

These are just a few complaints.

However, getting old should be fun!

Have you ever looked at a rose bud and watched its progression until the petals fall off? Our skin is very similar to a rose petals. Young skin and petals are smooth. In adolescence both becomes more beautiful. Once a rose opens, it is like a woman in her forties: mature, but beautiful. As the journey continues, small lines begin to form.

On humans, the lines are the patina of our lives—the laughter, the tears, the anger, the sun—all show on the face. Gravity takes its toll, and bits begin to droop, just as the rose does on its stem.

The lines on our faces should tell our life stories. A facelift won’t erase the memories, but personally I find watching the progression of decay, if you must call it that, interesting, even fascinating. Hair thins, skin sags. Even the skin on your arms and legs eventually wrinkles and sags. I sometimes wonder if we were to live long enough, would we be a pile of wrinkly skin, with some fat and some stringy muscles pooled around our feet?

Age can be physically uncomfortable. However, if you are really enjoying an activity, some pain is bearable. If not, you can make adjustments. I have had chronic back pain from scoliosis and several back surgeries for over 30 years. I can sit and lie down comfortably, but being erect for more than a few minutes is agony.

I either find somewhere to sit, or I find something to lean on. Grocery carts are terrific. Walkers work too, but I am not 100 percent accepting of using mine.

Yoga and exercise help agility.

Normally I use a wall or a piece of furniture to go from having my butt on the floor to standing upright. A bit of adrenaline can render those aids unnecessary. Once I was late for an appointment. As I ran into the lobby, I fell and skidded on my side like a baseball player trying to make second base. Fortunately, a woman held the elevator for me.

“Are you all right?” She asked me.

I looked down. I was standing up in the elevator. “Yes! I’m better

than all right! This is the first time in over ten years I have become upright without climbing on something!”

Now I practice changing my elevation.

Rising from the floor without props isn’t easy because it hurts my toe joints and the skin on my knees. I also practice getting out of an upholstered chair without using my arms or hands.

Continuing to do whatever physical activity you can do is essential. I like to jump backwards Barb Strona is pictured with members of her family who shared in her recent birthday celebration. up, onto the kitchen counter, and, yes, I do use my arms. devices. You may need repairs to or my perspective and relish the Revel in your age and whatever replacements of body parts. I have a good parts of whatever befalls me. you can do. For some reason, I fake hip, which I love.

When I do experience unpleasant looked forward to my 78th birthday We also may become victim to aspects, I will allow myself to with as much excitement as I did disease, but keeping a sense of wallow in my misery for a day to my eighth. I love the fact that at humor and a clear perspective or so. Then I hope to regain my 78 I maintain a fragile drip sprinkler should allow us to continue perspective and sense of humor system as well as tend the various enjoying life. so I can laugh and enjoy the rest gardens above the canyon and I look at this portion of my life of my journey. Every aspect of this around our house. I even do a bit as an adventure. I am trying to journey can be a new adventure. of canyon maintenance, but I no pack for a very long trip. This The Garden Club meets on the longer wear flip flops to do it. means divesting myself of what I fourth Thursday of each month, with When you are old, you are treated no longer need or want as well as the exception of December, July, as if you will break. Enjoy it. If you what would embarrass me were a and August, when it does not meet. are hoisting a 30—pound bag into stranger to see it. I don’t know what November’s meeting is always the your car and someone offers to take the future holds. I may succumb third Thursday of the month because it for you, graciously accept the help; to any number of things… I hope of Thanksgiving. Meetings are held you may make the person feel good. to avoid Alzheimer’s of which my at the church at 4070 Jackdaw from Remember that age has privileges. mother died. I hope I can keep 6 until 8 p.m.• Most movie theatres have what I call the “old fart’s” price. Many airlines have special fares for seniors. Some stores offer senior discount days.

Always ask.

Maritime Museum of San Diego announced the return of Tim Flannery and If you are older and do have trouble Friends to perform a colorful blend of folk, country and traditional music and walking, a wheel chair simplifies air storytelling from 8 to 11 p.m., Saturday, December 15. travel. You board first, and you aren’t With a voice as smooth as Kentucky bourbon and a heart worn on both wiped out from walking a good sleeves, Flannery’s performances ebb and flow with brilliant melodies and portion of your travel distance. You soaring harmonies. He has been joined onstage with Jackson Browne, Bruce may get preferential treatment in Hornsby, Garth Brooks, Jimmy Buffett, Bob Weir and many others. line as well.

Guests may enter at 7:30 p.m. Concert tickets are $49 for adults 21 and older.

There are some drawbacks to VIP concert tickets are $85 with guests’ entrance at 6:30 p.m. and include aging. Pain may be one. You may heavy appetizers, two complimentary drinks, and early entry for seat selection. need hearing aids (which can be Tickets can be purchased at www.sdmaritime.org/publicevents or by calling turned down or off if someone or 619.234.9153 ext. 106.• someone is too loud), and you may need glasses or cataract surgery.

Most people need reading glasses at some point. Those of us who are myopic may be able to avoid this.

Another drawback is that you do have to take the written and eye test to renew your driver’s license.

You may take pills or need various

Tim Flannery & Friends Perform at Maritime Museum

Tim Flannery will perform his original music with his team of musician friends.

PresidioSentinel.com •

10

Local News

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

Our Hearts Are Filled With Gratitude

By Mission Hills Business Improvement District (Mission Hills BID)

In the Mission Hills Business Improvement District (BID), December is a joyous time of year. We celebrate our ideal neighborhood for gift buying, special gatherings of friends over food and drink, luxurious relaxation opportunities, and so much more. To the nearly 500 businesses in Mission Hills, we thank you for each day you open your doors and warmly welcome all who enter.

Again this year, the Mission Hills BID was selected to partner with the nationwide Small Business Saturday campaign, backed by American Express. Through this partnership the colorful banners installed on Mission Hills’ lampposts serve as a reminder to shop locally and first look to our own neighborhood for any purchases.

American Express also sponsored print and social media ads promoting Mission Hills’ Small Business Saturday Gingerbreads on Goldfinch Holiday Spectacular.

Small Business Saturday launched the SHOP SMALL campaign, which will continue through the holiday shopping season. We encourage you to enjoy local merchants’ offerings throughout our neighborhood.

The BID is thankful to Carin Canale-Theakston for the use of Canale Communications parking lot for the life-sized Craftsman Gingerbread Shop installation created by Food Network award winner and Mission Hills’ local, Jennifer Duncan owner of Cake Bakery. What a treat it was to see each person’s face as they set their eyes on it. In addition, children decorated their very own gingerbread creations while BID members and community volunteers handed out hundreds of free SHOP SMALL shopping bags, offered coupons from local shops and AmEx swag, and inflated and delivered balloons.

It was an especially sweet photo opportunity and crafting event. Remember, shopping at a local Mission Hills merchant brings on average two-thirds ($0.67) of every dollar spent back into our community.

A life-sized Shop Small gingerbread shop was created by Jennifer The Mission Hills BID held its Annual Meeting and board of directors and officers Duncan of CAKE to celebrate Small Business Saturday in Mission Hills. elections at Harley Gray Kitchen and Bar in November. Thank you to owner and host John Ealy and to all who attended and voted. The new officers for 2018 are President J. Daniel Geddis, Team D&B at One Mission Realty; Vice-President Don Holmes, owner, Sushi Deli 1; Secretary Audrey Patterson, Patterson Engineering, Inc.; and Treasurer Colleen Field, Agency Owner Allstate Insurance. Newly elected to the Mission Hills BID board is Amanda Gregory, assistant vice president and branch manager, U.S. Bank, Mission Hills. And continuing on as directors are Stuart White, Stuart White Design and Minka Hull, Mission Hills Financial. Together, with executive director Susan McNeil Schreyer, the BID is committed to the vitality of our neighborhood of businesses. In 2019 we will continue to work with a committee system focused on promotions, economic development, design and parking, and the goal of enhancing Mission Hills’ attractiveness as a regional destination for shopping, dining, relaxation, and more.

If you are a business license holder in the BID and want to get more involved in supporting the Mission Hills business community, we invite you to join us on the second and third Wednesdays of each month beginning at 3:00 p.m. Thanks to the continuing generosity of Mission Hills United Methodist Church and our “Month of Meetings’ Sponsors” BID meetings in 2019 will continue to take place in the church parlor. Please visit missionhillsbid.com/meetings-and-agendas/ to learn more.

Our hearts are filled with gratitude as we wish you and yours a wonderful holiday Volunteers greeted shoppers at Gingerbread Spectacular Bag, season. We look forward to our work in 2019.• Swag and Cookie Decorating station.

A Festive

Flair for the Holidays Diane Powers’ Bazaar del Mundo Offers Unique Gifts & Holiday-inspired Meals

For more than 45 years, Diane Powers has been helping San Diegans shop and dine in vibrant holiday fashion with lots of color, personality and flavor.

A lively and colorful entry to San Diego’s Old Town community, Powers’ Bazaar del Mundo Shops, located at 4133 Taylor Street in San Diego, have been one of San Diego’s favorite locally owned shopping destinations for decades, especially for unique holiday gifts. These vibrant shops overflow with treasures and fashions from around the globe, including folk art, colorful accessories for the home, artisan jewelry and crafts, handwoven textiles, and unique collectibles.

Powers’ award-winning restaurants—Casa Guadalajara, Casa de Pico, Casa de Bandini and Casa Sol y Mar—also offer delicious dishes that infuse traditional holiday flavors into their authentic Mexican offerings.

Each restaurant is beautifully decked out for the season with colorful Christmas trees dressed in handmade Mexican ornaments, Mexican paper flowers, piñatas, painted tin ornaments, and lighted chili ristras. Strolling Mariachis add to each restaurant’s cheerful ambiance.

In keeping with the restaurants’ annual holiday tradition, each are serving the ever-popular turkey mole tamales (available for take-out too) are filled with tender turkey, raisins, chopped pecans and apples, all topped with a rich mole sauce and sesame seeds.

The holiday menus, available through the New Year at Casa Guadalajara in Old Town includes: Crema de Elote, roasted corn, potatoes, onions, poblano Colorful Christmas trees are dressed chiles, pepper, cilantro and chipotle combine to create a in handmade Mexican ornaments delicious cream soup; Green Chiles and Cheese Tamales, at Bazaar del Mondo shops. tamales filled with Monterey Jack cheese, corn, green California and jalapeño chiles and topped with more cheese, served with arroz poblano and black beans; and Flan de Calabaza, the restaurant’s signature flan combined with fresh pumpkin.

In addition to these seasonal items, all the Bazaar del Mundo Restaurants present a beautiful environment Turkey mole tamales are filled with tender turkey, for holiday parties, especially while splendidly decorated for the season. Catering is also available. raisins, chopped pecans and apples, all topped with a rich mole sauce and sesame seeds.

To learn more about holiday shopping and food options, visit bazaardelmundo.com or call 619.296.3161.•

• PresidioSentinel.com

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

Local News

11

Salute the Season at Liberty Station Each year, Arts District Liberty Station invites the community to Salute the Season with a full event calendar during the holidays. There will be events happening throughout the art-filled campus through the end of December.

Rady Children’s Ice Rink at Liberty Station, benefiting Rady Children’s Hospital, returns for another season of holiday fun through January 6.

As an added bonus, Café Mingei will be open for skaters to enjoy coffee, tea and treats.

Salute the Season Celebration with Santa and Friends through Saturday, December 22 is an opportunity to create new family holiday memories and take pictures with Santa. In addition to a visit from Saint Nick, the Celebration will feature live entertainment including bands and carolers for all to enjoy.

Another Salute the Season highlight will be a new temporary holiday art installation. This is the fourth year that a local artist is featured. The piece entitled “Toying with Light” is by San Diego artist Nico Meyer.

After a festive skate, shoppers are encouraged to wander through 16 historic buildings and visit the over 80 artists, galleries and museums to shop for holiday gifts with a creative twist. Locally-made unique works of art, handmade jewelry and furniture make great gifts that are unique, creative and support our arts and culture community.

Visit ARTSDISTRICTLibertyStation.com for a complete calendar of holiday activities and gift ideas.•

Santa will be on site through Saturday, December 22.

Rady Children’s Ice Rink at Liberty Station will provide fun through January 6.

Shop for holiday gifts that are locally-made and are unique works of art.

When Ordinary Jewelry is Simply Not Good Enough

Featuring Rare & Wonderful Gemstones Alexandrite • Paraiba Tourmaline • Demantoid Garnet Mexican Fire Opal • Imperial Topaz • Watermelon Tourmaline Star Sapphire • Star Ruby • Tsavorite Garnet • Coral • Jade Diamond Collection • Unique & Custom Designer Pieces

A l l at Extr a or d inar y Pr ic e s !

760.828.8683 • TRILLIONJEWELSSanDiego.com 2802 Juan Street, Suite 19, Old Town, San Diego, California 92110

PresidioSentinel.com •

12

Local News

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

Old Town State Historic Park to Host

68th Las Posadas

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park will be decked out in historic holiday finery this year and will be the scene of an expanded Las Posadas celebration on Saturday, December 15.

Now in its 68th year in Old Town, the annual Las Posadas procession is a walking reenactment of what is traditionally a nine-day event in Mexico depicting 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.

An Old Town Celebration, the 2018 event will mark an expanded celebration in the park with a day full of activities, crafts, choir and stage performances, and more in addition to the procession. Choir performances and activities will begin at noon and extend until 4 p.m.

The park will be decorated to represent the historical setting of Pueblo de San Diego. Choirs will select and perform music that might have been heard during this period. Christmas trees will be decorated with pinecones and bows, with shop windows lighted by candles as carolers stroll Las Posadas procession is a walking reenactment of what is traditionally a nine-day event in Mexico through the park. depicting the biblical story of Mary and Joseph’s search for a birthplace for Jesus.

Traditional historic kids’ crafts such as corn grinding, ojo de dios (stick weaving), whirley gig making, and advent paper-chain garland construction will be situated in the plaza along with other entertainment and activities. Park exhibits and demonstrations will include blacksmithing, wool spinning, candle dipping, a Jewish exhibit and more.

Street performers and carolers will roam the park throughout the day leading up to the 4:45 p.m. gathering for the Las Posadas candle-lit procession which will begin at 5 p.m. and culminate in front of Casa de Estudillo with a live nativity scene and musical performance. Following the procession there will be a bonfire with complimentary hot chocolate and s’mores and caroling. The bonfire will be held every Saturday in December.

These events are sponsored by Fiesta de Reyes and The Old Town State Park Merchants Association. There is free parking available in the Caltrans parking lot on Taylor Street in Old Town after 5 p.m. on weekdays and all day on weekends. For more information about any of these events, visit Fiestadereyes.com or call 619.297.3100.•

• PresidioSentinel.com

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

Local News

13

Wacky Wonky Wonderland Event Supports the San Diego Center for Children This holiday season there will be an especially fun event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sunday, December 9. The Wacky Wonky Wonderland event is a holiday festival and donation drive, which will take place at the San Diego Center for Children’s main campus in Linda Vista, 3002 Armstrong Street, to collect much needed gifts and donations to support children in need this holiday season.

Bring your friends, family and co-workers for a fun-filled event all in the spirit to create holiday cheer for the over 1,000 children and families served every day by the Center. Tati from JAM’N 95.7 will be this year’s emcee with special appearances from Santa Claus and Wacky Willy.

Kids, families and adults will have a blast enjoying photos with Santa and Wacky Willy, jumpers and carnival games, holiday crafts and festive music, trackless train rides, and a holiday costume contest. Vespa Motorsport will also be a part of the festivities by leading its 11th Annual Scooter Toy Run featuring more than 200 holiday decorated scooters parading down the street and through the Center’s front gates.

Admission to this family-friendly event is a new, unwrapped toy or $25 gift card from the Center’s holiday wish list, or a monetary donation to the Center. All proceeds from Santa and Wacky Willy will be on hand to greet guests and take photos. the day will benefit the San Diego Center for Children, our region’s oldest children’s nonprofit, who helps children and families struggling with mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. The Center provides therapeutic, educational, foster care and transition age services to over 1,000 people every day across 8 program sites in the county.

Visit www.centerforchildren.org/wonderland to RSVP, volunteer, and view the Center’s wish list and donation station opportunities. Corporate sponsorship opportunities are also available.•

PresidioSentinel.com •

14

Theatre News

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

Cygnet Theatre “A Christmas Carol” returns to Cygnet Theatre for its fifth season of cheer.

And while it has become a tried and true holiday favorite, each year it’s kept fresh and new. This year patrons will enjoy a new musical sequence and a new cast member, along with a fun (and furry) new community partner.

The family-friendly musical runs through Sunday, December 30 at Cygnet Theatre in Old Town.

Written by Charles Dickens and adapted by Sean Murray, with original score

by Billy Thompson, this production is a re-imagined version of the original holiday classic featuring lively music, unique puppets and live sound effects.

“You know it’s a classic when you’re continually inspired, challenged and thrilled by a piece for over forty years” says Murray. “My joy at working on ‘A Christmas Carol’ for so many years comes from the constant desire to tell this story in a way that people can see and hear it fresh, and allow them to discover new things each time they see it.”

In addition to the regularly scheduled Cygneture events, Cygnet is holding its annual pre-show Family Day from 1 to 2 p.m., Sunday, December 2.

Families will be able to enjoy an activity station by Geppetto’s Toys, kid’s activities, complimentary hot chocolate and more.

Cygnet is also excited to announce its partnership with San Diego Humane Society during the run of the show. This partnership includes two pet adoption events that will take place on Cygnet’s Elaine Lipinsky Patio on Sunday, December 2 (Family Day) and Saturday, December 15 (Las Posadas in Old Town), as well as promoting adoptable animals through a photo feature with the cast.

Cygnet Theatre will once again be transformed into a Victorian Christmas card thanks to the creativity of set designer Andrew Hull. Kyle Montgomery is lighting designer. Costumes are by Jeanne Reith, and Peter Herman will provide wigs and makeup. Choreography is by Katie Whalley-Banville. Original puppets are designed by Michael McKeon. Patrick Marion will provide musical direction.

Tom Stephenson is once again everyone’s favorite Ebenezer Scrooge.

Returning veterans include Charles Evans, Jr., Melissa Fernandes, Melinda Gilb, David McBean, and Patrick McBride. Joining the cast for her first year is Megan Carmitchel.

Tickets are on sale now and may be purchased in person at the box office located at 4040 Twiggs Street in San Diego Old Town Historic State Park, by calling 619.337.1525 or by visiting www.cygnettheatre.com. Children 15 and under receive half-off tickets with each paid adult.•

Landmark Theatres

“The Favourite” is a 2018 historical period drama directed

by Yorgos Lanthimos, from a screenplay written by Deborah Davis and Tony McNamara. A co-production of Ireland, the United States and the United Kingdom, the story focuses on the behind-the-scenes politics between two cousins jockeying to be court favourites during the reign of Queen Anne in the early 18th century. It stars Olivia Colman, Emma Stone, Rachel Weisz, Nicholas Hoult, Joe Alwyn, James Smith, and Mark Gatiss. Filming took place in Hertfordshire, England.

“The Favourite” had its world premiere at the 75th Venice

International Film Festival on 30 August 2018, where it won two awards: the Grand Jury Prize and the Volpi Cup for Best Actress (for Colman). The film has received widespread critical acclaim, with major praise drawn towards its screenplay, direction, production values and acting (particularly Colman, Stone and Weisz’s performances).

“The Favourite” opens at the Hillcrest Cinemas, located at 3965 5th Avenue, on Friday, December 7.

The film is 120 minutes long and is rated R. For information and times, call 619.819.0236, or visit www.landmarkTheatres.com.

Film times and dates are subject to change.•

Emma Stone stars in “The Favourite,” which includes a cast of notable talent.

• PresidioSentinel.com

The cast of “A Christmas Carol” perform during the show.

Aches & Pains? Chronic Illness? Stress?

Sheila Kendro, RN, L.Ac.

Traditional Western Medicine | Alternative Therapies, including Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, Craniosacral Therapy, & Nutritional Wellness | Health Solutions for San Diegans Since 1994

Basic Health | 3330 Fourth Avenue in Hillcrest | Phone: 619.948.8590

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

Local News

15

The Perfect Place To Purchase Your Holiday Gifts – Trillion Jewels

By Patty Ducey-Brooks Close to two years ago, I dropped into a local estate jewelry store called Trillion Jewels on Juan Street in Old Town San Diego. Not only was I pleasantly surprised by the eclectic array of fine and unique jewelry on display, I also became a customer and acquired an exceptionally attractive red/purple sapphire and diamond ring that causes lots of interest and positive comments from people who see it.

I recently stopped into the store to look at some potential holiday gifts and was greeted by Neil Ward, the proprietor. As so many small businesses come and go, I was delighted to hear from Ward that Trillion Jewels has been getting lots of repeat clients and felt so positive about the future that he has extended his store lease to 2025.

“So, what do you think has lead to your store’s success?” I asked.

Ward offered, “I think the store is successful for several reasons. The most important reason is that Trillion Jewels carries high quality jewelry, much of which is so unique that you won’t find it Trillion Jewels has a high quality selection of bracelets to satisfy every personality. anywhere else.”

He added that the price of the jewelry is phenomenally attractive. The four important factors: quality, uniqueness, value, and selection are what customers say when they see the inventory.

Trillion Jewels now has over 800 items to choose from. The collection now includes not only a great selection of diamond jewelry, but also a wide array of colored gemstones, many of them rare and not available in other jewelry stores.

Currently Trillion Jewels has a great choice of all the well-known and much loved gemstones such as rubies, sapphires, emeralds, aquamarines, opals, amethysts, citrine, blue topaz, tanzanite, pearls and garnets.

Trillion Jewels also has an awesome selection of hard to find gemstones such as alexandrite, Paraiba tourmaline, rutilated quartz, jade (green and lavender), coral, Mexican fire opal, imperial topaz, cobalt blue spinal, tsavorite and demantoid garnet, sleeping beauty turquoise, watermelon and rubellite tourmaline and the list goes on.

As the store is small and the focus is on quality, all Trillion Jewels jewelry is set in 14k gold, 18k gold and platinum (occasionally 22k and palladium), but no silver and very rarely 10K gold.

Ward reminded me that they also offer high quality repairs at a very fair price and there is a “no quibble” 30-day return policy on sales.

Ward offered, “Whether it is sales, repairs, appraisals or custom work, my goal is to always give customer such a great experience that they will want to come back and Top quality and unique jewelry designs are the norm (not the exception) at Trillion Jewels refer Trillion Jewels to their friends and family.”•

PAINT REMOVAL AND CLEANUP MADE EASY® NO NE E L Y H MET ORIDE CHL BREAKS THE MOLECULAR BONDTM For information, call: 1-800-346-1633 | www.liftoffinc.com PresidioSentinel.com •

16

Local News

The Fleet Science Center Hosts

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

Full-Day Winter Science Camps

This holiday season, the Fleet Science Center offers options to help parents keep their kids active and learning during the winter school break. The Fleet’s full-day Winter Science Camps begin on Wednesday, December 26, and are available each weekday through Friday, January 4 (except Tuesday, January 1). The camps take place at the Fleet Science Center and feature fun and educational hands-on activities.Campers can participate in just one day or sign up for multiple days.

The curriculum for the science camps for grades first through third incorporates important skills using science, technology, engineering and math. Camp attendees will learn about magic and illusion as they make color-changing potions and observe the fascinating nature of dry ice. They will also explore the basics of chemistry through colorful activities, learn how explosive volcanoes can be and discover what it takes to be an engineer through construction challenges.

For grades fourth through sixth, the Fleet partners Participants explore the basics of chemistry through a variety of mind-challenging experiments with ThoughtSTEM to offer Computer Science and Programming Camps. Each day, future programmers will learn how to create different elements of a 2D video game, using features of the popular game Fortnite. However, our version of Fortnite is a bit more wholesomecharacters in the game play with paintball guns! Campers will also design and code different power-ups for characters to collect in a Fortnite-style game.

ThoughtSTEM engages students in computer programming through fun and interactive programming environments that allow students to be creative and work collaboratively.

Camps run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays from December 26 through January 4. Campers can sign up for a single day or enroll for multiple days of fun! For the Fleet Winter Camps, grades 1-3, prices are $60 per day for Fleet members and $65 per day for nonmembers. For the Computer Science and Technology Camp, grades 4-6, prices are $70 per day for Fleet members and $75 per day for nonmembers.

A full list of Winter Science Camp activities is included below. More Students get to create, tinker and learn information can also be found on the Fleet website at www.fleetscience.org/ what determines movement with various devices. events/winter-camps.•

Human TuneUp Column by Cath

Optimism

by Cath DeStefano Get out those rose-colored glasses.

The times they call for them.

Yes, Virginia there is a dim side of life.

The trick is not to succumb to it.

Could it be a matter of turning our attention elsewhere?

Perhaps.

One of the things I do when my optimism dips?

It helps to turn my attention to “awe.”

I find too much cruising along on the surface of life,with no deep dives into the amazingness of it all is not good for my seeing the brighter side.

But, when I turn my attention to, oh, say, air and simply marvel in it for a while. Ah. And then awe again by focusing on silence. Ah. Or a memory of a kind person. Ah. When the humans in my immediate circle are optimistic, I find it is easier to be optimistic. I long ago freed myself from the “too negative” and “too angry” people. Although a touch of guilt rises over that periodically, I bat it down.

One of the anti-optimistic things my mind does that I have to catch and adjust is this: if something is going on that is bad, sad or makes me mad, I tend to think it is going to be that way ongoing way into the future.

Nope. Not always.

Because, life is fluid, moves and shifts without our constant input.

Life changes.

Let us look around. Just for today, let us focus on what is working and what is being worked on. What’s right with our world, and, who we love and who loves us.

Feet-on-the-ground optimism. Real.

Cath DeStefano, Public Speaker, Author, Artist Would welcome hearing from you: HumanTuneUp@Live.com

P.S. Optimism art from above is from my uplifting 2019 Vital Signs Calendar.

Available at www.humantuneup.com/calendar.htm.

• PresidioSentinel.com

En joy Yo u r H ol i d ays with U s !

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

What Now?

Local News

17

Lost and Found!

By Laura Walcher Here’s how I remember the German wood-carver who, decades ago, knocked on our door: sullen and craggy, middle-aged but bent beneath his over-flowing backpack, not even trying one or two words of English But his mission was clear: will we buy his carvings? Well, he wasn’t exactly unpleasant, and we were surely new to Darmstadt, where the U. S. Air Force was “hosting” us, and wishing at least to be pleasant, we invited him to display his wares.

His prices were right, his artistry and collections rugged, dramatic, whimsical, colorful. We became his new customers, and ‘til now, we continue to cherish, use and display his work.

Let’s discuss our wooden letter opener–our first buy, from the German wood carver of long ago. Yes, our letter opener had a silly face, a big nose, and what might be a smirky grin—though I preferred to consider it a grin of appreciation for his new home with us. One thing’s for sure; he not only exemplified the woodcarver’s ability and artistry, he’s been completely useful all these years.

A few weeks ago, he disappeared. Could you see me? I turned the kitchen upside down. Knowing full well he was never anywhere but the kitchen, I still turned the rest of the condo inside out. Nope. No! This guy was not going to be gone! Garbage? Yes: I frantically combed through every box and bag. I opened open envelopes. I “squooshed” into tin cans. Finally, finally, he emerged!

I guess I imagined it, ecstatic to be home.

That was day one. The next day, during one of our sunny, lovely days, I “toodled” off to Balboa Park with Fen, our poodle-ish, Bijon-ish “Mr. Entitled,” for a totally ordinary run-around. And yes, we did, indeed, run, and at the end of a particularly long, four block expanse of lush, green lawn, we finally took a deep breath, and I dug into my pocket to get my keys back into action for returning home. Except, my keys weren’t there.

They appeared not to be anywhere. Frantic, I combed every inch of the run. Frantic, I found nothing. Then, I further frantically located the park office that deals with frantic people. A sympathetic park lady assured me that nobody had turned in my keys, tho’ she’d be on the lookout and call me as asked. I took Fen home. I went back to the park. Inch by inch, I repeated my tour. I went home again. I called the park lady. Yet again, trekked back to that lovely lawn. And this time, the third time, there, right there, nestled in the grass, were my keys. Twinkling in the sun. How did I miss them twice?

Never mind, let’s just cut to…

Ahh, to today: in this era of big, bad Trump, when it’s hard to think about anything—or anyone else to rave and rant about, I still treasure my good news: From the filled-to-the brim garbage bags in our building, to that four-block expanse of a Balboa Park lawn, I, with amazing perseverance and single-minded determination, found, found our silly, but long-treasured letter-opener, and my most essential keys. Hey, I’m here if you need me! •

A carved, wooden letter opener is a family heirloom.

Fashion Week San Diego at the Lux Art Institute

by Stylishly Aubree Lynn

Shoes, furs, coats, dresses, swimwear even hats, Fall Fashion Week San Diego (FWSD) was a standout on the runway. This year there were 15 designers all showing during one night, which made for a nice compilation so this writer could really zone in on a few standouts that truly impressed the audience.

I couldn’t help but gasp at the collection by Irina Madan. Her artwork, on matching sets of coats and dresses, reminded me of my love for vibrant colors and designs. Hand- painted decorations on crisp and bright fabrics were exceptionally unique and a crowd pleaser. The decorative elements boldly stood out, causing me to want to steal them off the models as they walked out from behind the curtain.

It is no wonder Irina Madan earned the position of one of the top three contenders for the evening.

This year foot and headwear graced the runway and Agnes Bethel Shoes and UQSHA Panama Hats had something unique to offer FWSD 2018.

There were some very cute and sophisticated heels and even a few knee high boots all with adorning details by Agnes Bethel Shoes, a husband and wife team. This luxury brand, which is designed in California, is meticulously crafted in Italy. They have lots of shoe options on their website to literally fit your fun, flirty, or classy wardrobe needs. To watch shoes walk down the runway was a pretty neat treat.

In terms of headwear, founded in Ecuador by the design firm of UQSHA, the show included genuine, hand woven straw Panama hats. These hats, which take from 96 to 5,800 hours to craft, have beautiful colors and the attention to detail is so precise that you can literally see every woven component as the models walked down the runway. These hats are stunning as well as a commitment to a traditional art form.

I recalled the spring showcase and two designers that did not disappoint at this Fashion Week, LyCass, and my continued favorite, Vaughnberry. LyCass, a firm run by a talented individual who is a nurse by day and clothes designer by night, has clothing for adults and kids too. During the spring showcase I was pregnant with my daughter and was tempted to buy an amazingly fashionable toddler dress. However, I regretfully refrained from purchasing this one-of-a-kind dress because sizing might be an issue.

LyCass has some very distinguished statement pieces in the collection, including an emerald green Gina Coons (left) and Stylishly Aubree Lynn pants suit with slits up the side to reveal some leg, which is paired with a high collared sleeveless top. are seen at the 2018 fall FWSD. This combination definitely appeals to me.

Photo is courtesy of Annalise Johnson @azara.j.

LyCass also offers some elaborate ball gown dresses, including a mermaid style design. Some of her signature details are buttons and big bows. I am truly impressed that the designer has the time to make these ensembles while juggling with her professional career as a nurse. That’s devotion and commitment.

VaughnBerry is another design firm that never disappoints. Bryan Vaughn, who is the brainchild beyond the firm, came with his posse to watch the collections of other designers walk down the runway. There are reasons I am truly partial to his work. His designs include furs and double-breasted coats in deep blues, crisp whites, soft roses and greys.

One of his more notable designs included a dress full of fur that looked like it would have weighed a ton. However, the material offered softness and an element of weightlessness as it floated down the runway. VaughnBerry provided some truly amazing pieces that earned the firm this year’s first place award. Congrats to Bryan Vaughn and his team.

An added benefit of the show was the gift bags for guests that contained some wonderful items, including the pre-event, VIP beauty offering with celebrity lash artist Ja’maal Buster. Appetizers, manicures and make up were all gifts given during the evening. Though I wasn’t able to partake in these activities, the lady who sat next to me during the show raved. She displayed her eyelashes and a new manicure set. No doubt, it was an impressive event.

As you might expect, this couldn’t have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the producer, Allison Andrews, and her associate, Samantha. This first class production is due to them. Congratulations to both of them for another outstanding event.

Congrats also to the top winners of the show: first place went to VaughnBerry, second place to HulaBelle, and third place to Irina Madan.

Please check them out on social media @vaughnberry @hulabelleresortwear @irina.madan. For live footage of all the 15 designers, visit Stylishly Aubree Lynn on YouTube and click on Fashion Week SD 2018.•

PresidioSentinel.com •

18

Calendar

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

December 2018

Thru December 31

December 1 thru 16

n San

n Point

Diego Air & Space Museum, located at 2001 Pan American Plaza in Balboa Park, presents “Speed.” The fastest vehicles in the world roar into San Diego all year long as SPEED: Science in Motion—a fun, interactive adventure for all ages—highlights the most iconic, record-setting planes, rockets, spacecraft, race cars, motorcycles, drag racers, bicycles and race boats on the plant. In a move never tried before, the For show updates, visit www.sandiegoairandspece.org.

n theNAT San Diego Natural History Museum, located at 1788 El Prado in Balboa Park, invites visitors to a rare peek behind the scenes, in a storage area that is like a cross-section of the diversity of nature itself. You’ll find everything from tine beetles to enormous whale bones.

For information, visit www.sdnat.org.

n Reuben H Fleet Science Center, located at 1875 El Prado in Balboa Park, presents Volcanoes: The Fires of Creation makes its California premiere in the Heikoff Giant Dome Theater. Earth is home to more than 500 active volcanoes. This amazing new film, Volcanoes, follows intrepid explorer Carsten Peter as he dodges boulders at the edge of an active volcano in Indonesia. The film takes moviegoers across the globe to see the archeological ghost town of Pompeii, hydrothermal vents at the bottom of the ocean and the devastating effects of the 2018 Kilauea eruption in Hawaii. For more information, visit www.fleetscience.org/shows/volcanoes.

n theNAT San Diego National History Museum, located at 1788 El Prado in Balboa Park, presents Hidden Gems.

The “deconstructed” exhibition will display more than 100 stunning objects from the Museum’s mineralogy collection, many of which have never before been on public display. This unique, vertically alighted exhibition experience is included with admission and free for members. Visit www.sdnat.org for ticket information.

Thru January 6, 2019

n Rady

Children’s Ice Rink at Liberty Station welcomes family and friends to kick off the holiday season. The Ice Rink will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., except Christmas. Net proceeds benefit psychosocial services in the Rady Children’s Hospital’s Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders. Throughout the season tickets are $ 15 for adults and $13 for children. All tickets include skate rental and helmets. A full calendar of events can be found at www.libertystation.com.

Thru January 2019

n Reuben H Fleet Science Center, located at 1875 El Prado in Balboa Park, brings the science and history of electricity to life with It’s Electric. The newest addition to its permanent collection in the Fleet’s Main Gallery, in this exhibition, visitors explore fundamental principles of electricity by participating in a series of fun, interactive experiences and live demonstrations, offers hands-on learning for the whole family in 16 interactive stations. For information, visit www.fleetscience.org/exhibitions/its-electric.

Thru February 17, 2019

n Museum

of Photographic Arts, located in Balboa Park, welcomes Irving Penn: Beyond Beauty, a full retrospective of the iconic photographer. One of the foremost photographers of the 20th century, Penn (1917-2009) is known for his iconic fashion, portrait and still life images that appeared in Vogue magazine. Beyond Beauty begins in the late 1930s when Penn is picking up his first camera.

The traveling exhibit feature photographs from all stages of his career, including street scenes from this early period, celebrity portraits, Parisian fashion photographs and more private studio images.

Thru June 2019

n theNAT,

San Diego National History Museum, at 1788 El Prado, presents Canyoneer hikes. Free and open to the public, get complete hiking information by visiting www.sdnat.org/canyoneers.

December 1 & 2

n Young Scientists is a hand-on preschool science program offered by the Fleet Science Center This program provides informal learning experiences that support and enhance exploration, create excitement and facilitate scientific, discoveries. Session 3 Winter Wonderland: Topics include: Let it Snow, Temperatures Dropping, All Bundled Up, Winter Wonderland. This program is designed for children ages 3-5 years with an accompanying adult.

Classes meet from 9—10 a.m. and Sunday 11a.m.—12 p.m. enrollment is limited and pre-registration is required.

Please contact our Client Services Dept. at 619.238.1233, ext 806 or go on-line at wwwrhfleet.org/events/youngscientists, prices are $75 per session for members and $85 per session for non-members.

December 1 & 2

n Kerri Walsh

Jennings is bringing her brand new beach volleyball + family-friendly + health & wellness festival, p1440, to Waterfront Park in San Diego. Jennings has created a playful environment with immersive experiences that are aimed to remind attendees to live every minute—all 1440 of them—to the fullest. p1440 festival goers will discover live music performances throughout the weekend and a health and wellness village with high-intensity interval workouts and volleyball training with top trainers—including Jennings’ daily yoga and meditation session, live cooking demos, tips from health experts, samples from wellness vendors and more. p1440 is also catered to families and all ages with familyfriendly activities including face painters, street dance performances, inflatable slides, rock climbing wall and more, immersive art experiences, a wine and beer garden, food trucks and pop-up entertainment.

• PresidioSentinel.com

Loma Playhouse at the Point Loma Assembly, located at 3035 Talbot Street in Point Loma, presents a bright and warm comedy about dreams, life and love, that had critics and audiences cheering at its premiere.

Danny Flemming has convinced himself that life’s dreams can’t be anything more than dreams. Then back into his life walks his eighth-grade flame, Meredith O’Connor— only now it’s Sister Meredith Louise and it becomes a New Years’ Eve to remember. For information, visit www.pointlomaplayhouse.com or call 619.800.5497.

December 1 thru Jan. 6

n Toying

with Light will be on display in the Legacy Plaza near the Dick Laub NTC Command center, 2640 Historic Decatur Road in San Diego, and in the heart of the ARTS District. Nico Meyer is the fourth artist to be commissioned for the Illuminate the Season installation series. The kinetic light sculpture will surprise, awe, and bring wonder to those who see it.

Thru December

n The Shores Restaurant, recipient of Open Table’s Diners’ Choice Award, offers a family friendly menu with fresh local ingredients, spectacular oceanfront views, and warm hospitality. Located within the La Jolla Shores Hotel and next to Kellogg Park, located at 8110 Camino Del Oro in La Jolla, celebrate the holidays in the most inspired of settings at the oceanfront Shores Restaurant.

Menus include seasonal specialties designed by Executive Chef Bernard Guillas and Chef de Cuisine Percy Oani.

To reserve your preferred date call 858.456.0600 or visit www.TheShoresRestaurant.com.

Thru Saturdays in December

n Salute

the Season Celebration with Santa and Friends from 5 to 8 p.m. at the North Promenade, near Stone Brewing, located at 2816 Historic Decatur Road, Suite 116. Celebrate the holidays and take pictures with Santa.

There will also be live entertainment, including bands and carolers for all to enjoy.

December 1

n Mark your calendar for the 20th anniversary of Little Italy’s Tree Lighting & Christmas Village taking place from 4—8 p.m. San Diegans are invited to come to Little Italy for an evening filled with Christmas cheer, including two Christmas trees, 10’ nutcrackers on street corners, season vendors, live music and entertainment, horse carriage rides, Christmas carolers, holiday treats, a tree lighting at 6:30 p.m., a visit from Santa and more. A 25-foot tower of more than 1,100 beautiful Poinsettias will be located in the center of Piazza Basilone and a permanent 20foot tall live tree in the Piazza della Famiglia. Santa will make a visit from the North Pole to take photos with little ones starting at 4 p.m. Kids can stop by “Santa’s Living Room” on India Street to share their Christmas wishes with Santa until 6 p.m. The community can stroll through the Christmas Village, located on India Street between W. Cedar and W. Grape Streets, to pick-up stocking stuffers and other holiday goodies from season vendors and select Little Italy Mercato vendors. For information, visit www.littleitalysd.com.

n San

Diego’s Children’s Choir will perform at the 20th Annual Little Italy Tree Lighting and Christmas Village at 5:30 p.m. at the Piazza della Famiglia at 523 West Date Street in Little Italy. The San Diego Children’s Choir is the oldest, largest choir in the county for children ages four to 18. It has five ensembles, outreach programs for lowincome youth and introductory programs for children in pre-kindergarten and kindergarten.

n Westfield

UTC Palm Plaza, located at 4545 La Jolla Village Drive in San Diego, hosts Whitney Shay and Robin Henkel from noon to 2 p.m. For information, call 858.546.8858.

December 2

n theNAT, San Diego National History Museum, located at 1788 El Prado in Balboa Park, hosts

n Winter

Wonders Family Day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

We’re pretty lucky here in San Diego, but many animals have to get ready for the winter months ahead. Join us as we discover animal adaptations. We’ll have hand-on activities and make a craft to take home. For information, visit www.sdnat.org.

n Carlsbad Community Church, located at 3175 Harding Street in Carlsbad, presents the Coastal Communities Concert Band’s 24th Annual Holiday Concert to benefit Meals on Wheels San Diego County. The glorious sounds of brass, wind and percussion instruments, will herald the holiday season with a special concert at 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased through Meals on Wheels at 800-5-SENIOR, or 760.736.9900 or online at www.meals-on-wheels.org/events.

n San

Diego Automotive Museum, located at 2080 Pan American Plaza in Balboa Park, hosts Winter Jazzerland at 6:30 p.m. Chill out with Camarada and local jazz artist: Peter Sprague and Friends. Young local songwriters join us for “Winter Wonderland,” “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire,” “A Life That’s Good,” “The first Noel” and the famous “Hallelujah.” To purchase tickets, visit www.sdautomuseum.org.

December 2, 9 & 16

n Free

UC San Diego public tours will be held every Sunday to local residents, new faculty and staff, first-time visitors and the general public. These Sunday afternoon tours start at 2 p.m. and are led by knowledgeable, adult volunteer guides. Walking tours are conducted the first Sunday of every month, while tours by bus for the remaining Sundays of the month. Tours highlight campus

history, art and architecture. Guides focus on the history of the university, iconic Stuart Collection sculptures, the evolution of UC San Diego’s six colleges, green building strategies and other notable points of interest across the 1,200- acre campus. Tours are two hours long and begin at the corner of Osler Lane and Pharmacy Lane, near the Osler Parking Structure. Parking in this structure is free on Sundays. Tours are not suitable for children under six-years old. Visitors may stay on the bus during walking portion of the tour. For more information, call 858.534.4414. To make reservations, please submit your request no later than noon on the Thursday before the tour you’ve chosen.

December 3

n Reuben H Fleet Science Center, located at 1875 El Prado in Balboa Park, offers the first Monday of every month to seniors 65 and better to 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. Sharp Minds lectures begin at 10:30 a.m. The lecture topic for this month is Precision Medicine: Forging a Path to More Effective, Less Toxic, Personalized Treatments for Patients.

Precision medicine seeks to identify the unique molecular characteristics of each patient and their disease. Visitors are encouraged to stay to enjoy the galleries and special senior discounts in Craveology and the North Star Science Store.

n Liberty

Station’s 2018 Salute the Season Hanukkah Celebration & Menorah Lighting will take place in the central Promenade at Liberty Station from 5 to 9 p.m. in partnership with the Chabad Centers of Pacific Beach and Downtown. Enjoy a night of music, photo opportunities, and more to celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah.

Live entertainment is included. For information, visit www.libertystation.com.

December 4

n theNAT San Diego National History Museum, located at 1788 El Prado in Balboa Park, offers residents free days on the first Tuesday of each month. Balboa Park organizations offer free admission (special exhibitions and films are not included) to San Diego City and County residents (with ID), active military, and their dependents on selected days for one day each month. Films are not included, but tickets are available for $5 per person at the admission desk. For information, visit www.sdnhm.org.

December 6

n Zel’s Del Mar, located at 1247 Camino Del Mar in Del Mar, hosts Robin Henkel solo blues from 7 to 10 p.m.

For information, call 858.755.0076.

December 7

n The New Children’s Museum presents Drink Play Create a holiday party from 8 p.m. to midnight at 200 West Island Avenue. The big kids-only event will feature music

by DJs Rob and Dimitri of Booty Bassment, one drink ticket, open access to galleries, photo booth, games, face painting, art activities, food trucks and more. Plus the first 300 people to arrive get a free Passion Planner. For tickets and information, visit www.thinkplaycreate.org.

December 8

n Toys for Joy serves thousands of San Diego Families with toys, food and clothing. More than 21,000 are expected to attend the 22nd Annual event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is located at three locations, including Lincoln High School at 4777 Imperial Avenue, San Diego; Cajon Valley Middle School at 550 E Park Avenue in El Cajon; and Guajome Park Academy at 2000 N Santa Fe Avenue in Vista, CA. Not only will children birth to 11 receive a free toy, but families will have the opportunity to receive free lunch, gently-used clothing (at the Lincoln site), groceries, hair cuts, activities and more. In tough economic times, everyone needs hope. For information and to donate or volunteer, visit www.toys-for-you.org.

n Birdrock

Coffee Roasters, located at 5627 La Jolla Boulevard in La Jolla, hosts Robin Henkel solo blues from 10 a.m. to noon. For information, call 858.551.1707.

n Alexan

Millenia in Chula Vista Invites the Community to Urban Arctic to celebrate the season at its first annual holiday celebration event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Stylus Park at Otay Ranch. The park’s central plaza will be filled with more than 100 tons of snow creating a winter scene and play land for the community to enjoy. Friends and family can also partake in family-friendly activities, including a visit from Santa and his ice princess friends.

Urban Arctic is free and open to the public with an encouraged donation to the Chula Vista’s Salvation Army’s toy drive.

n Nate’s Garden Grill, located at 3120 Euclid Avenue in San Diego, hosts Robin Henkel solo blues from 6 to 8 p.m.

For information, call 619.546.7700.

December 8 & 9

n Reuben

H. Fleet Science Center is holding a Saturday and Sunday Science Club for girls in grades fifth through eighth. This month’s topic is Gingerbread Engineering.

Build a gingerbread structure that can withstand moving earth, elements and weight and examine what forces can make these structures strong. To participate, parents must pre-register by calling 619.238.1233 x806.

December 9 & 16

n Maritime

Museum, located on the North Embarcadero in downtown San Diego at 1492 North Harbor Drive, presents the Annual Parade of Lights dinner. The Maritime Museum has been known for years as the best place on the waterfront to view the Annual Parade of Lights on San Diego Bay from the museum’s historic 1898 steam ferry boat Berkeley located along Star of India wharf. Parade judges are stationed aboard the steam yacht Medea and the brightly decorated boats will this year dawn a new

theme–A Tropical Island Christmas–as they pass by the Museum. The buffet and no-host bar will be open from 5 to 8 p.m. Tickets are available on the museum’s website at www.sdmaritime.org or by calling 619.234.9153 ext 106.

Visitors are encouraged to please bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots program.

December 12 thru 16

n The

Fourth Annual Stance ISA World Adaptive Surfing Championship return to LA Jolla, California, welcoming more than 25 of the world’s best National Para-Surfing Teams and will compete for gold. The ISA is proud to host this World Championship for the fourth consecutive year and continue to make surfing more accessible to those with physical challenges around the world. Surfing has a therapeutic power to heal that we believe can be used to change people’s lives. Come out and support this program.

December 13

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 one to five years old). Free with Museum admission. This months theme is Winter Animals. Visit www.sdnat.org for ticket information.

n A

monthly get-together to knead some friendship will take place at 7 p.m. During the event you will learn how to make a holiday-themed challah, knead the dough, let it rise and shape it. Space is limited. Following your registration, you’ll receive a list of basic supplies to bring to prepare your challah. All ingredients will be provided.

Men, women, and children over 10 are welcome.

Call 858.457.3030 for information.

December 14

n Valley View Casino Center (formerly the San Diego Sports Arena), located at 3500 Sport Arena Boulevard in San Diego, has announced 91X, the much-anticipated artist line-up for the radio station’s annual holiday concert, Wrex the Halls. 91X presents Death Cab for Cutie, Third Eye Blind, Billie Ellish, Lord Huron and Barns Courtney.

Doors open at 5 p.m. Performance begins at 5:30 p.m.

Tickets are on sale at AXS.com and the Valley View Casino Center box office.

December 15

n Reuben H Fleet Science Center, located at 1875 El Prado in Balboa Park, has a Junior Science Club which meets from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for students in grades first through fourth. Each third Saturday students investigate exciting science topics. Sessions will be filled with new challenges, hand-on activities and interaction with local scientists. Throughout the year, students will explore an array of fields including biology, chemistry, engineering, environmental science, physics, robotics and much more. This month the topic is Sugercoated Science. Make homemade bubble gum, experiment with the melting point of candy canes and learn a little about your taste buds. To participate, parents must pre-register and pay with a credit card while registering their children by calling 619.238.1233x 806 or by registering online at www.rhfleet.org/events/junior-science-club.

n Nate’s

Garden Grill, located at 3120 Euclid Avenue in San Diego, hosts Robin Henkel solo blues from noon to 2 p.m. For information, call 619.546.7700.

n Maritime

Museum, located on the North Embarcadero in downtown San Diego at 1492 North Harbor Drive, presents Tim Flannery and Friends performance aboard the world’s oldest active sailing ship Star of India. Tim Flannery and Friends will perform a colorful blend of folk, country and traditional music and storytelling. Tim Flannery’s music now also serves another purpose. Every cent from CD sales, merchandise, and ticket sales benefit his non-profit, the Love Harder Project, for anti-bullying and anti-violence programs across the county. Guests may enter at 7:30 p.m. The concert is from 8 to 11 p.m.

For tickets and information, visit www.sdmaritime.org/ publicevents or call 619.234.9153 ext 106.

December 29

n Maritime

Museum, located on the North Embarcadero in downtown San Diego at 1492 North Harbor Drive, presents two more return performances of Boarded. This hilarious and interactive show puts visitors right in the middle of the pirate action. Participants will be sworn in as part of the ship crew, trained how to navigate, sword fight, bail water from a sinking ship, escape from the Kings Jail, swab the deck and other pirate skills. Performances are 90 minutes and check in times are 10:30 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. Tickets can be purchased on line at www. sdmaritime.org or at the Museum ticket booth, Star of India information tent, or gift shop located at the Star of India Warf.

December 31

n Maritime Museum, located on the North Embarcadero in downtown San Diego at 1492 North Harbor Drive, hosts the Spectacular Black and Gold New Year’s Eve Party on the Bay from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Museum staff will transform the event center deck of the historic steam ferryboat Berkeley overlooking San Diego Bay into a glamorous lounge. Tickets include music from the 70s through 90s, complete bar, appetizers, a photo booth, generous dessert buffet, dancing, midnight champagne toast and balloon drop and traditional party favors including hats, noisemakers, and beads to help ring in the New Year.

Tickets are available at www.sdmaritime.org. To reserve by phone please call 619.234.9153 ext. 106.

•

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING PRIVATE PARTY AD

includes personals, items for sale, garage sales & roomates

25 Word Maximum

5

$ 00

BUSINESS LISTING AD

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

•AD SALES POSITION•

• OPPORTUNITIES •

Mission Hills Branch Library December 2018 Events

Join an exciting team and rapidly growing company.

Sales experience preferred.

• DONATIONS •

Classified

•POSTAL SERVICES•

Children’s Craft Time Dec. 1, 8, 15 (Every Saturday) from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Kids can develop their artistic skills while enjoying a fun craft time.

includes real estate,help wanted & services

• SERVICES •

25-35 Word Maximum $

3500

BUSINESS DISPLAY AD 2.25"w x 2.0"h $

35

to place a classified ad

10 years experience, References,Call Sabrina 619.316.5292

VIDEO PRODUCTION

Video production services from conception to final product. Call 619.296.8731

• STUDIO SPACE •

00

Call 619.296.8731

Read to a Therapy Dog

House Pet Sitting

• ENTERTAINMENT •

• 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

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

2,000 sq. /ft. artists’-op studio–one of SD best kept secrets.

Dec. 1 and 15 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

• 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

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 MODELS3 DAYS A WEEK INCLUDED!

All Classified Ads must be Pre-Paid

Monthly fee: $145 More information please contact: Kirby Kendrick kirby4004@aol.comphone: 505.660.4448

Even You & 35, 000 Potential Customers Would be Reading Your Ad Right Now!

Kids can improve their reading skills by reading aloud to a therapy dog.

Signing Storytime Dec. 3, 10 and 17 (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 singalongs and bubble time ending with Q&A period. Storytime is recommended for children from birth to four-years old.

After-School Craft Time Dec. 4, 11 and 18 (Every Tuesday) from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Kids are invited to make a cool craft after school.

LEGO Playtime Dec. 5, 12 and 19 (Every Wednesday) from 5 to 6 p.m.

Kids can have fun and get creative while building with LEGO.

Mission Hills Book Group Dec. 6 from 10 to 11 a.m.

Call 619.296.8731

•

19

• VOLUNTEERS •

Commissioned sales position for print, video and website ads.

Call 619.481.9817

Classified

RELIGIOUS CALENDAR •

The Mission Hills Book Group will discuss “March: Book One” by John Lewis and Andrew Aydin. New members are always welcome. Please read the book beforehand (available at the circulation desk while supplies last).

Preschool Storytime Dec. 7, 14 and 21 (Every Friday) from 10:30 to 11 a.m.

Children are invited to a fun storytime that encourages early literacy skills and the love of reading. The first storytime of the month is usually bilingual.

Baby Storytime Dec. 13 at 10:30 a.m.

Enjoy a holiday-themed storytime especially for babies and toddlers, followed by a playtime.

Gingerbread House Decorating Dec. 13 at 3 p.m.

Kids can decorate gingerbread houses.

All supplies are provided. Space is limited, so please sign up in advance at the library or call 619.692.4910.

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 Sundays at 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

Book Sale Dec. 15 from 9:30 a.m. to noon

The Friends of the Mission Hills Branch Library will hold a book sale. Stock up on books while supporting your library.

Farewell Party for Kids & Families Dec. 18 at 5 p.m.

Bid farewell to the current library building with a party featuring live family holiday music performed by Hullabaloo, followed by face painting. Refreshments will be provided.

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

PresidioSentinel.com •

20 Directory Civic Calendar

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

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.

Put Your Name In Front of

35,000 Potential Customers!

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

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, 2018

Mission Hills Garden Club The Mission Hills Garden Club will not meet this month.

The meeting place has been changed to the Church at 4070 Jackdaw Street. If you haven’t renewed your membership, please do so now. 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 12th, 2018

The Annual Holiday Tea and Bazaar will take place from 10 a.m. to noon. There will be holiday fresh and dried decorations, crafts and homemade food treats–all lovingly created by Point Loma Garden Club members—and 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 local PLGC philanthropies. It will take place at Portuguese Hall, 2818 Avenida de Portugal, San Diego, CA 92106.

More information is available atat www.plgc.org.

• PresidioSentinel.com

F or More Information,

Call 619.296.8731

Real Estate

Ocean Beach

Mission Hills

Alvarado Estates

st Li

g

Ju

in

st

st

1,070,000

$

679,000

$

1160 Hunter Street

2325 Caminito Andada

4 bedroom 2.5 bath historic home ripe for renovation & restoration.

4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and over 1,600 square feet in Park Point Loma with pool and more!

See more details at www.SDHomePro.com

LD

Li

LD

$

O S

ew N

O S

ed

Mission Hills

21

A Publication of Presidio Communications • December 2018

©

See more details at www.SDHomePro.com

SCHNEEWEISS PROPERTIES

2,399,000

See more details at www.SDHomePro.com

Voted in San Diego Magazine’s,

3785 Ibis Street 3 bed 2 bath with bonus room, one car garage & completely remodeled.

See more details at www.SDHomePro.com

SCHNEEWEISS PROPERTIES

JONATHAN SCHNEEWEISS J.D., LL.M. Broker

SCHNEEWEISS PROPERTIES

JONATHAN SCHNEEWEISS J.D., LL.M. Broker

Voted in San Diego Magazine’s,

“Best in Client Satisfaction 2008-2018, every year of the survey...”

1,215,000

4902 Toyoff Way

5 bedrooms and 4.5 baths with over 4,800 square feet in this exclusive gated community minutes from downtown and Mission Hills!

SCHNEEWEISS PROPERTIES

JONATHAN SCHNEEWEISS J.D., LL.M. Broker

$

JONATHAN SCHNEEWEISS J.D., LL.M. Broker

Voted in San Diego Magazine’s,

“Best in Client Satisfaction 2008-2018, every year of the survey...”

Voted in San Diego Magazine’s,

“Best in Client Satisfaction 2008-2018, every year of the survey...”

“Best in Client Satisfaction 2008-2018, every year of the survey...”

“2017 Top 5% in Sales by Volume for San Diego County.”

“2017 Top 5% in Sales by Volume for San Diego County.”

“2017 Top 5% in Sales by Volume for San Diego County.”

“2017 Top 5% in Sales by Volume for San Diego County.”

BRE # 01378508 • 619.279.3333

BRE # 01378508 • 619.279.3333

BRE # 01378508 • 619.279.3333

BRE # 01378508 • 619.279.3333

North Mission Hills

North Mission Hills

3873 Pringle Street

Appearances can be deceiving. From the street this Mission Hills Cottage may look small but it’s 2407 square feet of sunny indoor/ outdoor living. 4 Bedrooms and 4 full baths. Water, Coronado, and evening light views; upper & lower decks; hardwood floors.

Lovely large living and family rooms. Renovated kitchen with lots of counter space leading to the oversized dining room. Two master bedroom options, entry level and downstairs. Tankless water heater. New furnace. MLS #180054254

Call Krista Lombardi, Agent CalDRE #01504924 at 619.519.3251

1,595,000

North Mission Hills

1829 Altamira Place

3924 Alameda Place

Dream fixer property, on the market for the first time since 1972.

Spectacular 9,100 square foot North Mission Hills canyon lot. Single level 3-bedroom, 1 bath, 1-car garage with nice period detailing: coved ceilings, gum-wood built-ins and wainscoting, and hardwood flooring throughout. Add up, add out, or just restore the livable original floor plan. Property sold in “as is” condition, without termite clearance or any repairs by seller. Seller is a trustee and is subject to limited disclosures. MLS #180048698

Call James Hardy, Agent CalDRE #01076819 at 619.204.9511

South Mission Hills d

Bankers Hill

R

d

ol

ol

uc

1,100,000

Call Jim Scott, Broker CalDRE #830226 at 619.920.9511

S

ed

$

Located on one of the most desirable streets in Mission Hills, this exquisite 4 bedroom Craftsman home has not been offered for 39 years. Large remodeled eat-in kitchen and family room, downstairs en-suite bedroom, spacious master suite with a huge closet. Enjoy the best of Mission Hills from the gracious full-width front porch. MLS #180027274

Call Rocky Rockhill, Agent CalDRE #01197738 at 619.972.3033

ed

North Mission Hills

$

d

807 Barr Avenue

This storied home is an architectural masterpiece that is like none other in Mission Hills. Newly built and elevator served, this multilevel work of art will both delight and entertain. 4 bedrooms, 4 1/2 baths, a multitude of sunny canyon terraces, pool, separate guest quarters, sweeping views, wine cellar, open living spaces, and a bridge connecting the master suite to the primary house. Fabulous open concept kitchen. Perfect for art collectors or for someone who wants a home that is truly special. MLS#180059596

1,200,000

ol

$

S

2,850,000

North Mission Hills

S

$

Mission Hills

$

1,295,000

$

4255 Arguello Street

First time offered for sale in 61 years. Vintage Craftsman located mid-block on Arguello Street, arguably one of the finest locations in North Mission Hills.

The home features 4 bedrooms, 2 optional bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and has maintained the original period woodwork. Features built-ins and leaded glass windows. Spacious backyard with a two-car garage off the alley. 7,500 square foot flat lot makes this home an amazing investment opportunity.

Sunny upstairs bedrooms feature ensuite bathrooms. MLS #180042571

1,375,000

$

1212 West Arbor

230 W. Laurel Unit 303

Call Celeste Williams, Agent CalDRE #00897028 at 619.405.7575

Call James Hardy, Agent CalDRE #01076819 at 619.204.9511

Call Lisa Mortensen, Agent CalDRE #0583530 at 619.818.5566

La Mesa

North Mission Hills

Real Estate

Call Rocky Rockhill, Agent CalDRE #01197738 at 619.972.3033

2,499,000

2540 Presidio Drive

Beautifully restored and impeccably maintained classic Mission Hills Art Deco home with Mills Act taxes of $6,147. Four Bedrooms plus maid’s room, 6 gorgeous redone baths. Sunny living room with onyx fireplace. Gleaming hardwood floors throughout. Elevator. 800 square foot family room with bar, bathroom, fireplace, wine storage, and media center. Lovely cobblestone interior courtyard with charming fireplace and fountain sheltered by 5 mature palm trees. Four car garage. Lush landscaping, views, and a 12,300 square flat lot. MLS #180010515

Call Jim Scott, Broker CalDRE #830226 at 619.920.9511

d

Panoramic views from the top of Eastridge in La Mesa. See the Coronado Islands from the living room. Resort living in your own back yard with a crystal clear pool, overhang to shelter the outdoor entertaining area, & your own putting green. Lovely single level 3 bedroom, 2 bath home beautifully situated up the hill from La Mesa Village, close to the Secret Stairs, minutes from freeway access, in a lightly trafficked neighborhood. New roof, heating/air conditioning.

ol S

$

8125 Cinnabar Drive

Call Krista Lombardi, Agent CalDRE #01504924 at 619.519.3251

d

690,000

North Mission Hills

ol S

d

ol S

d

ol S MILLS ACT HOME! Welcome to fabulous Mission Hills, one of San Diego’s most desirable neighborhoods. Owners have maintained this home in excellent condition and it is move-in ready. In addition, this home has been historically designated with the MILLS ACT giving the new owner a huge tax savings! Located just blocks away from the West Lewis Street shopping district, you’ll be able to walk to Mission Hills shops, restaurants, excellent schools, and much more. MLS# 180037808

739,000

Sit down views from this beautifully maintained 1,700 sq.ft.

2 bedroom 2 bath condo with updated baths and kitchen and very spacious rooms. Loads of built-ins and storage throughout unit. Murphy bed in front bedroom/office.

Separate deeded storage room located inside building.

Have front row seats to the action in ‘America’s Finest City’. If you haven’t been in the building lately, come see the refreshed look. MLS#180039353

$

2022 Hickory Street

2525 Columbia Street

Great South Mission Hills duplex located a short walking distance to Little Italy and more.The upper unit is a large, 1,090 sq. ft. 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, with an office / additional bedroom, sun porch, and 1-car garage.Lower unit is a 990 sq. ft. 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, kitchen, and laundry room.Split system heating and air conditioning, stainless steel range and refrigerator.Lots of additional storage and a large shared yard with room to build another unit in the rear. MLS# 180036152

North Mission Hills

1,295,000

$

Cherished Craftsman home with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Formal living and dining rooms with gorgeous Gum Wood details. Hardwood oak floor planks throughout. Entire second level is master bedroom & bath retreat. Easy stroll to lots of shopping and restaurants. MLS #180027362

Call Jim Scott, Broker CalDRE #830226 at 619.920.9511

$

870,000

$

2,500,000

4040 Miller Street

Simply stunning. An art work. Down-to-the-studs remodel in 2010, designed by architect Mark Tarasuck. Panoramic water and city views. Custom wrought iron and glass entry door, heated marble floors, Venetian plaster walls, central entertainment system, marble kitchen with onyx barrel ceiling, Venini Italian light fixtures, marble zero-edge pool and spa with projection TV for watching movies outdoors, and more. Every design decision was made and executed with the utmost integrity. MLS #170053066.

Call Jim Scott, Broker CalDRE #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 •

Alvarado Estates 5410 Fremontia Lane • $1,225,000

A

lvarado Estates Mid-Century. Largely untouched since it was constructed by the current owners in 1973, this one-level view home features architectural touches sought after in today’s market. Wood cathedral ceilings, skylights, clerestory windows and more. The garage is elevator-served and has a large workshop. The home sits on a 1 acre lot within the gated community and has plenty of land for parking or additions. Huge patio and pool grace the private backyard. Views across Mission Valley and to the mountains. Will be in MLS after the 1st of the year but available for showings now.

Call Jim Scott, CalDRE#830226, Broker -Associate, Scott & Quinn Real Estate at 619.920.9511 • jim@sqre.com or Rocky Rockhill, CalDRE#01197738, Agent, Scott & Quinn Real Estate at 619.972.3033 • rocky@rockyrockhill.com Scott & Quinn Real Estate is located in Mission Hills at 1111 Fort Stockton Drive. Founded in 1982, Scott & Quinn is the oldest full service real estate firm in Mission Hills and is locally owned and operated. Jim has been a homeowner in Mission Hills since 1976.

www.JimScottHomes.com

Thank You for Reading this Months Issue!

- Presidio Communications -