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editor’s note
{staff}
non-practicing Jew with a spray tan walks into Petco Park looking for duct tape. He’s got sunblock under one arm and bungee cords under the other…
San Diego VOL.3
ISSUE 8
AUGUST 2009
PuBlISHERS
David Perloff {Editor in Chief} Simone Perloff CREaTIVE DIRECTOR
Kenny Boyer CONTRIBuTINg EDITOR
Brandon Hernández EDITORIal aSSISTaNT
Danielle Warren D E S I g N C O N S u lTa N T
Kim Cuffe CONTRIBuTINg WRITERS
Julie Hagy Brandon Hernández Sarah Nardi Cookie Chainsaw Randolph Frank Sabatini, Jr. Diane Y. Welch PHOTOgRaPHERS
David Good, davegoodphotography.com Janelle Maas, janellemaas.com Courtenay Nearburg, nearburgphoto.com aCCOuNT EXECuTIVES
Kasey Goodsell Jim Lucich Laura Rovick Mira Woermann
Crack!
MaRkETINg
Michael Capone
Magazine advertising makes businesses stink… …stinkin’ rich, that is.
{
Call 858.274.1111
}
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Distribution 35,000 copies distributed monthly 20,000 copies direct-mailed 15,000 copies picked up by readers at 550+ retail outlets countywide Available FREE at every participating 7-Eleven store from Coronado to Oceanside and east to SDSU and Kearny Mesa 12
pacificsandiego.com | august 2009
Sounds like a joke, but it’s not. It’s me, last Saturday morning, trying to adhere a banner to PacificSD’s booth at Stay Classy’s Tailgate concert. The sun is hot, the beers are $8.25 and the Coppertone 70 is dripping into my eyes like so much Tabasco. (A doctor at Scripps found a few bad moles on me a couple years back, so now I go with the heavy-duty block and one of two color choices: Diprivan white or spray-booth beige. In summer, sometimes I go with the latter.) Anyway, the tape I brought isn’t strong enough and the damn banner keeps falling. The portable bars are cash only, I have three bucks left and I just kicked over my beer while failing to outwit a bungee cord. Arrrgh! Walk it off—I throw on the free Padres visor I received at the entrance and head out over a small hill toward the bathroom. Atop the grassy knoll, I look down to my right and notice a dozen or so people huddled by the right-field fence. I head in for a closer look and a ten-year-old kid tells me what all the fuss is about: batting practice. “We’re trying to catch homerun balls,” he announces, his enormous smile dwarfed only by his father’s baseball mitt on his left hand. Like Babe Ruth pointing at the fence, I call my shot. “Oh, cool. I’ll get one.” I’m kidding, of course, and in no way expect to get even close to a ball. Some 400 feet away, a small figure with a bat hits a line-drive and a pop-up, but nothing approximating a homer.
A white blur is hurtling our way. My heart races. My eyes, still burning from the SPF, instantly become clear. This is my ball. My Alamo. But why isn’t anyone else moving? “It’s going into no-man’s land,” the kid yells. “You can’t get it.” I can tell by the tone of his voice that he’s a veteran who’s got at least 30 minutes of experience on me. Dejected, I step toward no-man’s land to witness the final resting place of a ball that shall never be mine. And now it seems the ball won’t even escape the playing field. It hits the warning track, bounces over the fence, caroms off a block of concrete over the no-man’s
land barrier and… guess where. Yup. Right into my hands. Holy effing ess! I caught the damn thing. Well, to be fair, it bounced into my hands. But whatever, it’s mine. The kid looks at me in shock and awe, like I had somehow Grinched him out of his rightful souvenir. So, I do the right thing—I wipe my eyes (I’m not crying, it’s the sunblock), wink at the boy, then head to an ATM with my homerun ball to get some eight-dollar-beer money. What am I, Santa? Give me a break— the kid’s dad already caught him three balls with that giant mitt. All of a sudden, my mood is great and I see the futility of being frustrated by a lack of banner adhesion. I hit the bank machine and a porta-potty and return to the PacificSD booth with my trophy. As soon as I get there, a guy from 91X, who had set up his tent right next to ours, tosses me a roll of duct tape. Here in paradise, you can do just about anything: kayak, get a tattoo, watch a Broadway show, surf, eat churros, stomp wine grapes, speak Spanish, hang glide, sunbathe or even catch a ground-rule double out of no-man’s land when you’re in a crappy mood. Working weekends can be a drag, but I don’t need a vacation. Just give me a day to play in San Diego. I love this town. Please enjoy reading this Staycation Issue of PacificSD, which has been completely remodeled for your viewing pleasure.
David Perloff Editor In Chief
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{contents}
{Features} 24 it’s a sign Neighborhood signs help San Diego communities mark their territory 32 Work Hard, Plié Hard City Ballet lets down its hair for a well-earned day of staycation
{Departments} C u r r e n t s
16
{Sports} FAST BREAK In times of economic uncertaintity, even pro athletes prefer staycating to breaking the bank
18 21
{Anchors Away} SPORTING CHANCE How baseball broadcasts and a Chargers game made KGTV’s Hal Clement a lucky guy {Voice} CHECKING IN PacificSD asks concierges countywide how to spend a day in San Diego
42
{Bartender} PUNCH-DRUNK LOVE Meet two siblings who’ve replaced rivalry with revelry
45 {Music} ROCK IN A HARD PLACE Street Scene rocks and rolls into East Village 48 THAT THING YOU DO North Park Music Thing amps up for a command performance C A L EN D AR
50 eight.09 August event listings
t a s t e
37 the yolk’s on you San Diego’s scrumptious Sunday brunches are no laughing matter G R O O V E
40
{Cocktail} FEELING BLEU? Let Bleu Bar’s Cabana Boy turn that frown upside down
L O V E
52
{Blind Date} Occidental tourists An East Coast woman meets a Midwest man for a West Coast blind date
T H I N K
58 cogito ergo vroom! I think, therfore I drive
ON THE COVER: San Diego’s City Ballet poses at the Britt Scripps Inn. Photo by Courtenay Nearburg
Contents photo by Janelle Maas
story page 24
EL CAJON BOULEVARD Year installed: 1989 Traffic count: 21,600/day Cost to build: $150,000 Location: Across El Cajon Boulevard at Georgia Street, Hillcrest
Become a PacificSD facebook fan for access to cool events, behind-the-scenes pictures and videos and great giveaways. Check us out at pacificsandiego.com.
14
pacificsandiego.com | august 2009
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{currents} sports
Fast Break IN TIMES OF ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY, EVEN PRO ATHLETES prefer STAYCATING to breaking the bank By COOKIE “CHAINSAW” RANDOLPH
W
e live in the perfect town for a staycation. Millions of tourists can’t be wrong. But we don’t get it. Most of us are transplants from somewhere hideous, so we have this inbred wanderlust. We
need counseling. San Diegans going to Vegas or Scottsdale or Palm Springs in the summer are insane. They say it’s a “dry heat.” More like a dry heave—still agonizing but there’s nothing there. Or in the case of Vegas, nothing left. But if you have to feel like you’re on vacation during your staycation, pack your bags, take Cloud 9 to Lindbergh, wheel your luggage around for an hour and half and then shuttle back home. We’re here! Leave a mint on the pillow. Knock yourself out. It’s the economy. Even Bernie Madoff feels the crunch. He’s now on permanent staycation, but it’s different with him. Why be violated in the shower, when he can have it in his own cell? Anyhoo, this is supposed to be a sports column, so how about a few…
Dream staycations for famous athletes BRETT FAVRE: Minneapolis
“Admiring his own champion-
Minnesota is wonderful this time of year, Brett, if you ever actually commit to going and staying there. The mosquito bites alone are worth betraying the Packers for. And you can get your itches scratched real good at Lambeau Field when your Vikings play there October 5.
KOBE BRYANT: Orange County
ship rings
Admiring his championship rings and his wife’s forgive-mefor-cheating ring can only fill so many nights. How about renting Disneyland out for the kids and 10,000 of their closest friends? I just can’t see them at Chucky Cheese.
and his
PEYTON MANNING: Indianapolis
wife’s forgiveme-forcheating ring.” 16
Ah, the beauty and splendor of central Indiana in August. Elsewhere, people spend thousands for luxurious steam baths at five-star spas. In Indy, you just walk outside. For the adventurous type, you can lace up the hiking boots and go climb a slope. The views are amazing. In some cases you can see over a fence.
TIGER WOODS: $65 million South Florida mansion Have you seen his wife? Golf shmolf! Why would he ever leave?
pacificsandiego.com | august 2009
TOM BRADY: New England With Giselle now noticeably pregnant (her waistline is now out to 19 inches), it’s best for them to stay home anyway. You know, just stay mellow around the house, watch some Netflix, maybe go for a stroll and then, if they get really bored, they can lie under the mirror for a few hours.
MICHAEL PHELPS: Baltimore This guy is easy—a bag of Cheetos, a two-liter jug of Orange Crush and Season 3 of Family Guy oughta do it.
JAKE PEAVY, LADAINIAN TOMLINSON, PHILIP RIVERS: San Diego You guys are the luckiest staycationers in the world. The Midway, Cabrillo Monument, Balboa Park, the zip line at the Wild Animal Park. Walk a pier, any pier. Save your millions. You might need them for the water bill, except for you, L.T.; your fake grass looks almost real from a distance. (BTW, is it just me, or do you worry about his ACL with those kids tackling him at the knees in the Easy Turf commercials?)
KGB-FM’s Chainsaw summers in his hometown of Modesto, CA, which recently regained its #1 national ranking for car theft (true). He really should staycate.
{currents} anchors away
Hal Clement with ABC World News Anchor Charles Gibson
Sporting Chance How baseball broadcasts and a Chargers game made KGTV’S Hal Clement a lucky guy Anchors Away See what San Diego anchors are doing when they’re away from the studio.
By Brandon Hernández / Photo by Janelle Maas
“A lot of people come here from great distances for vacation. We’re already here.” 18
S
an Diego owes the arrival of one of its most beloved newsmen to… gasp… the L.A. Dodgers. At age eight, Dodger blueblooded Pasadena resident Hal Clement was so captivated by the team’s legendary playby-play man, Vin Scully, that he decided to follow in the sportscaster’s footsteps. “Well, nobody ever became the next Vin Scully. He’s still the best,” says Clement, who stuck with his broadcast ambitions and went on to become one of San Diego’s longest-tenured and
pacificsandiego.com | august 2009
most-recognized and respected newscasters. He has racked up 13 Emmys and four Southern California Golden Mike awards for his top-notch reporting and is now at the top of his game as anchor for KGTV’s 10News Live at 6 and 11 p.m. Listening to Dodgers games on the radio spurred his career, but it was taking a young woman named Patty to a Chargers game that set the course for Clement’s personal life. “Our mothers set us up on a blind date,” he says. “I ended up taking her home at 2 a.m. I think I knew she was the one
pretty quickly.” His instincts were right—the couple celebrates their 35th wedding anniversary this year. The Clements love to travel. Together with their daughters, Stacey (co-owner of a greeting card company) and Brooke (a third grade teacher), they’ve toured Hawaii and Europe, gone on a boatload of cruises and braved numerous whitewater rafting trips. Hal still wants to visit Italy and the French countryside, golf at St. Andrews Links in Scotland and go rafting through the Grand Canyon, but it’s hard to find the time when
there’s so much to do right in his own backyard. “We really enjoy being tourists in our home town,” Clements says. “We love the Zoo, the boardwalk at Mission Beach and riding bikes at the beach and Balboa Park. A lot of people come here from great distances for vacation. We’re already here.” At work and play, Hal Clement loves his new home town. When asked if he’d ever consider pulling up stakes and heading back to Pasadena, he replies, “Never, ever. I’m a lucky guy.”
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voice
{currents}
Checking In
pacificSD asks concierges countywide how to spend a day in san diego By DANIELLE WARREN
C
oncierges are an indispensible asset to tourists—they direct diners to the best restaurants, point nightlifers toward the newest hotspots and generally have the inside scoop on what’s in and what’s already been. But here in Staycationland, USA, where so much happens in and around hotels, the advice of concierges can be useful to locals, too. PacificSD checks in with eight of the greats.
PacificSD asks:
1. I’m in San Diego for only 24 hours—what three things must I see? 2. It’s 2 a.m. Where should I go? 3. Where’s the best beach in the county? 4. Where should I go to meet singles? 5. What’s the city’s most romantic restaurant for couples? 6. Who serves the best margaritas in town? 7. What’s the dumbest question you’ve been asked by a tourist? 8. I have $10 and 20 minutes, what should I do?
Aurora Guanzon L’Auberge Del Mar 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar 858.259.1515 • laubergedelmar.com 1. The beaches, the Del Mar Racetrack, Balboa Park and the Gaslamp District. 2. I would suggest returning to the hotel room, enjoying a latenight snack from the mini-bar and watching an in-room movie. 3. Del Mar Beach, “where the surf meets the turf.” 4. The Del Mar community, such as En Fuego Restaurant, Jimmy O’s and Pacifica Breeze Café. 5. Jake’s, in Del Mar, with its amazing ocean view. 6. Our very own KITCHEN 1540’s Lobby & Bleu Bar. We have a brand new Hibiscus Margarita, made with a hibiscus-infused tequila, a splash of grapefruit juice and crushed hibiscus around the rim. 7. “Do y’all surf to work?” 8. $10 on number 7 to win!
Erin Brady
Tower 23 Hotel 723 Felspar St., Pacific Beach • 858.270.2323 • t23hotel.com
1. Cabrillo National Monument. Also, take surf lessons from San Diego Surf School and check out the seals in La Jolla. 2. Basil Thai in Pacific Beach. After a night of cocktails on Garnet, my girlfriends and I go in there and giggle at all the people standing in line for burritos. 3. Pacific Beach is one of my favorites. It’s such a vibrant place—there is always so much going on and so many characters to meet. 4. I love how the new Moondoggies looks. There is more room to dance, a great DJ on the weekends and karaoke on Wednesday nights. 5. JRDN. Overlooking the ocean, a great wine selection and an amazing menu… all ingredients for a romantic date. The sunset also sets the mood. 6. Gringos, hands down. 7. “Which way is the ocean?” while we were on Mission Boulevard and Garnet. 8. Take a ride on the roller coaster at Belmont Park.
Stephanie Olivero San Diego Marriott Del Mar 11966 El Camino Real, Del Mar • 858.523.1700 • marriott.com 1. La Jolla Shores or any other beach, the Zoo and a Padres game at Petco Park. 2. Brian’s Eatery on Sixth Avenue. 3. Del Mar Beach at 15th Street. 4. Arterra Restaurant in the Del Mar Marriott, especially Thursday nights. 5. George’s Ocean Terrace in La Jolla. 6. En Fuego Cantina. 7. Questions related to L.A., such as, “What can I see on Hollywood Boulevard?” 8. Extraordinary Desserts on Fifth Avenue, downtown. august 2009 | pacificsandiego.com
21
{currents} voice
Seth Sullivan Ivy Hotel 600 F Street, Gaslamp 619.814.1000 • ivyhotel.com
Tina Rangel
Hyatt Regency Mission Bay 1441 Quivira Rd., Mission Bay 619.224.1234 • missionbay.hyatt.com 1. Start your day in Coronado, which has quaint boutiques and one of San Diego’s best beaches. Next, head over to Old Town and end your day by checking out the Gaslamp. 2. If you’ve got a craving, head to Studio Diner, which was featured in Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. 3. Hands down, La Jolla Shores. If you are looking for awe of the sheer power of the ocean, this is the place to be. 4. The headlining clubs seem to be Stingaree and Ivy, or for something more relaxing, Maryjane’s (in the Hard Rock Hotel). 5. I would have to recommend the Marine Room in La Jolla, offering excellent views of the ocean which can be quiet romantic and intoxicating. 6. Casa Guadalajara in Old Town. 7. “Is California on planet earth?” I understand that coming to California can be an out-of-this-world experience, but, yes, we still are on planet earth. 8. Keep your money and head to the beach for some relaxing alone time.
Gaby Delgado Hard Rock Hotel San Diego 207 5th Ave., Downtown 619.702.3000 • hardrockhotelsd.com
Jean Bush and Rachel Colwell La Costa Resort and Spa 2100 Costa Del Mar Rd., Carlsbad 760.438.9111 • lacosta.com
1.First, the famous San Diego Zoo, right next door to Balboa Park. Next, the USS Midway Tour in Seaport Village. Finally, kayaking in La Jolla and exploring the La Jolla caves. 2. If it’s on a Friday or Saturday night, head to Maryjane’s Coffee Shop (at the Hard Rock Hotel), which stays open till 3 a.m. 3. Coronado Beach (nice sand, clean, great for families or couples) or Pacific Beach (great for the younger crowd). 4. Downtown, head to Ivy or Stingaree. For something casual, head to Whiskey Girl or Shout House with its dueling pianos. In North County, try En Fuego Cantina and Grill in Del Mar. 5. Downtown, it would be one of Quarter Kitchen’s Chef Beds, away from the main dining area, surrounded by candle light, plush pillows and throw blankets. The food is served breakfast-in-bed style. 6. Café Coyote in Old Town. Don’t forget to get a side of freshly-made tortillas. 7. “What direction is the ocean?” 8. Go for a hike around the cliffs on the trails at Torrey Pines State Reserve.
22
pacificsandiego.com | august 2009
1. San Diego Zoo, La Jolla and, of course, Ivy Hotel. 2. If it’s the weekend, and you’re downtown, Tequila 100 (Alambres) serves up some amazing late-night dishes. They’re open until 3 a.m. 3. My favorite is Windandsea. I go there to swim and spearfish, but the beach at the end of Marine Street in La Jolla is an amazing place to lounge, play in the surf and enjoy the view. 4. A little place I like to call Syrah. It is an awesome new wine bar in the Gaslamp, where you can go as an undercover local and prey on a wide variety of hot singles. 5. I love Candelas—their service, the food and everything about the whole experience. Take your date on a quick ferry ride across the bay and guarantee yourself some after-dinner smoochin’. 6. Funky Garcia’s on Market Street—their street tacos are equally mucho bueno. 7. “What part of San Diego is Tijuana in?” Really... 8. Go to the Panikin Coffee and Tea Room, enjoy a cappuccino with a scone and marvel at the many world goods this place has to offer.
1. I would hit the beach, the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park. 2. On Fridays and Saturdays, Maryjane’s is open for a late-night bite and it’s a great alternative to the standard taco run. 3. Some of the best beaches in San Diego County are in Coronado. They offer something for all ages and the views are incredible. 4. 207 and Float at Hard Rock Hotel both offer a great atmosphere for mingling and meeting people. 5. Without a doubt you can’t go wrong with Nobu. We are fortunate to have the acclaimed Japanese restaurant right here at Hard Rock. 6. Fred’s Mexican Café on 5th Street has killer margaritas. 7. A particularly funny question I received is, “When is the sun coming out?” Many of our guests aren’t aware of the May Grey and June Gloom phenomena. 8. I would recommend grabbing a sweet treat at Pinkberry yogurt store. It’s particularly light and refreshing during the warm summer months.
Karin Bergendahl
Hilton San Diego Bayfront 1 Park Blvd., Downtown 619.564.3333 • hiltonsdbayfront.com
1. The Del and Coronado Beach, La Jolla Cove and the view up at Torrey Pines. 2. Home so you can get up and surf in the morning. 3. The prettiest is Coronado and the most fun is Pacific Beach/ Mission Beach. 4. Jacks, Siren and LOUNGEsix. Younger people I’d send to Garnet Avenue in Pacific Beach. 5. Bertrand at Mr. A’s. Amazing. 6. Miguel’s Cocina or Cafe Coyote. 7. “I know I should take Freeway 5 to Mexico, but do I go North or South?” 8. Go to El Pescador Fish market on Pearl Street in La Become a PacificSD facebook fan to participate in a blind Jolla and have the best freshdate adventure that may take place at one of these great fish sandwich in town. hotels. Visit pacificsandiego.com.
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It’s a Sign! Neighborhood signs help San Diego communities mark their territory
W
PHOTOS BY JANELLE MAAS
hile gas is still less than five bucks a gallon, it’s a great time to buckle up for a tour of the county’s neighborhood signs. From the sandy paradise of Solana Beach to the more urban bustle of El Cajon Boulevard, these iconic structures have transcended their purpose, illuminating the diversity of San Diego’s communities and becoming attractions in and of themselves.
gaslamp Traffic counts according to San Diego Association of Governments, sandag.org
24
pacificsandiego.com | august 2009
Year installed: 1990 Traffic count: 6,200 cars/day Cost to build: $150,000 Weight: 12,000 pounds Location: Across Fifth Avenue at L Street
LITTLE ITALY Year installed: 2000 Traffic count: 5,700 cars/day Location: Across India Street between Fir and Date Streets
august 2009 | pacificsandiego.com
25
El cajon Year installed: 2009 Traffic count: 18,700 cars/day Cost to build: $250,000 Location: Across Main Street at Magnolia Avenue
cedros design district/ solana beach Year installed: 1997 Traffic count: 4,700 cars/day Cost to build: $9,000/arch Location: Across South Cedros Avenue at Lomas Santa Fe Drive
26
pacificsandiego.com | august 2009
HILLCREST Year installed: 1940; refurbished in 1984 Traffic count: 19,300 cars/day Electric bill: $65/month Cost to build: $100,000 Location: Across University Avenue at Fifth Avenue Weight: 800 pounds
Year installed: 1954 Traffic count: 16,300 cars/day Electric bill: $25/month Cost to build: $1,200 Weight: 1,000 pounds Location: Across Adams Avenue between Kensington and Marlborough Drives Note: The sign was taken down in 2008. Intent on reinstalling it, the Kensington community continues to work through permitting issues.
{not pictured}
KENSINGTON
Encinitas Year installed: 1928; new sign in 2000 Traffic count: 22,100 cars/day Cost to build: $100,000 (new sign) Location: Across South Coast Highway 101 at D Street
august 2009 | pacificsandiego.com
27
UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS Year installed: 1997 Traffic count: 6,100 cars/day Cost to build: $150,000 Location: Across Park Boulevard at Madison Avenue
NORMal HEIGHTS Year installed: 1956 Traffic count: 16,500 cars/day Electric bill: $20/month Cost to build: $2,300 Location: Across Adams Avenue at Felton Street
NORTH PARK Year installed: 1935; refurbished in 1993 Traffic count: 20,100 cars/day Location: Across University Avenue at 29th Street 28
pacificsandiego.com | august 2009
Year installed: 2003 Traffic count: 17,500 cars/day Cost to build: $200,000 Weight: 1,000 pounds Location: Across Third Avenue at Park Way
{not pictured}
CHULA VISTA
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work hard, pliĂŠ hard
City Ballet lets down its hair for a well-earned day of staycation By Diane Y. welch
photos by courtenay nearburg 32
pacificsandiego.com | august 2009
<all photos> Built in 1887, the luxurious Britt Scripps Inn has recently undergone a $6 million restoration that returned the Queen Anne-style Victorian property to its original grandeur. 406 Maple Street, Downtown | 619.230.1991 | brittscripps.com <above and below> This 1885 Steinway Case piano is the last of its kind ever to be built and is signed by the great grandson of the founder of Steinway Piano Company. <left> This was the first camphor tree ever brought to North America. It was planted in 1885 by Kate Sessions, who also planted many of the trees in Balboa Park.
i
t’s summer and there’s a serious dance class in session. Professionals and amateurs move to the beat of classical melodies, performing grand jetés across the studio floor. As the tempo rises, so too does the temperature.
Steven Wistrich leads twenty-plus adults through their rigorous paces, directing the group’s movements with terms that could fool the casual observer into thinking this is a French lesson. Au contraire, it’s an open ballet class at the City Ballet of San Diego studios in Pacific Beach. Like the music, the mood is upbeat. The City Ballet is in its 16th year and has earned a reputation for being a top-tier dance
company and, as one critic put it, “an oasis of classical dance in a city otherwise too often a desert.” Under the direction of former Boston Ballet and Stuttgart Ballet dancers, Steven and Elizabeth Wistrich, City Ballet has successfully taken local classical ballet to the level of giants New York City Ballet and Miami City Ballet. According to the Wistriches, City Ballet’s meteoric rise stems largely from their having succeeded in creating a close-knit family of professional dancers. Four members of that family give rare insight into life inside and outside of the studio. Ariana Samuelsson, 26, principal dancer and the daughter of Betsy and Steve Wistrich, danced a season august 2009 | pacificsandiego.com
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<left to right > Ariana Samuelsson Gerardo Gil Janica Smith Geoff Gonzalez
under the sun A San Diego landmark shines anew
“I always challenge myself to remember everything without writing the orders down, which kind of compares with memorizing choreography,” she says. “I also
have to move quickly and work well with others. And like ballet, it’s hard work.” Geoff Gonzalez, 24, a Phoenix native and selfdescribed prankster, studied at Tempe Dance Academy and at the School of Ballet Arizona before relocating to San Diego. This is his fifth year with City Ballet. “During the summer, I work as a supervisor/ manager at Maloney’s Tavern downtown,” he says. “I work very late hours doing pretty much every job there, from working in the kitchen, to running food, security, waiting on people, bartending, DJing and, of course, watching everyone else and managing them. My shift is 12 hours long.” Gerardo Gil, 32, a Mexico City native, is a 15year professional veteran. “I’m the old dancer,” he says. Gil trained at the Art and Ballet Center in Mexico City prior to graduating from the Australian Ballet School. He performed a season with the Australian Ballet and was a longtime member of the National Ballet of Mexico before coming to City Ballet four years ago. Summer for Gil means spending more time with his family. “I have an 18-month-old son and another one on the way,” he says. In his off time, Gil takes
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his toddler to gym, swim and music lessons and walks his pet Schnauzer. “I used to party all the time,” he says, “but that’s over now. This is a lot more fun.” Without the rigors of show rehearsals, these four dancers take full advantage of their time off to relax.
“For me, going to the beach, and catching up with friends is a priority,”
Samuelsson says. Gonzalez likes to surf in O.B., “and sleep!” Smith takes yoga classes at Pacific Beach’s Corepower Yoga and is an occasional surfer, “although I’m terrible at it!” Despite having exquisitely toned physiques, all four confess to indulging in junk food. “The greasier the better,” Gil laughs. Even during summer recess, however, each dancer must attend at least three classes per week, because next season’s performances— which include Giselle, All Balanchine, Peter Pan and The Nutcracker—aren’t that far away.
“Then there’s a lot of pressure on us,”
says Gil. “So you have to have dedication and it totally has to be your passion” adds Samuelsson. Smith points out that camaraderie helps diffuse some of the stress. “Everybody here is family-oriented and we all work together as a team,” she says.
“I like to try and keep a fun, laughing, productive atmosphere, so we don’t take ourselves too seriously,” Gonzales says. “And
when things do get tense, we can just walk a few blocks and soak up the beauty of the beach.” Eat your heart out, Moscow Ballet. For more information about City Ballet of San Diego, visit cityballet.org.
Photo by Janelle Maas
with the Atlanta Ballet and two seasons with the Chicago’s Joffrey Ballet, considered to be one of the world’s top ballet companies. What does the life-long ballerina like to do during the off-season? “Not dancing, that’s for sure,” she says. Janica Smith, 22, who trained with the Capital Ballet Center in Sacramento for seven years prior to joining City Ballet, waitresses at The Corner in East Village and Bub’s Dive Bar in Pacific Beach.
By MURRAY K. LEE {Curator of Chinese American History, San Diego Chinese Historical Museum}
T
here has been a building on this site at 421 Market Street since 1873. In 1914 it was a shooting gallery owned and operated by Uichiro Obayashi, who determined that he could make more money by selling the hot soup that he always had on the gallery’s stove. In 1920, he converted the business into the Sun Café (the prominent red sign was the result of a 1935 remodel). During the Japanese internment from 1942 until the end of World War II, the Obayashi family retained ownership of the Café. After returning from the camp, they operated the restaurant until 1963, when they sold it to Bing Fong Jeong, whose family used the location to serve inexpensive Chinese and American breakfast and lunch. In 1997, San Diego Union critic-at-large Welton Jones conducted a survey to determine which San Diego restaurant had been in continuous operation for the longest period of time at the same location—he concluded that Sun Café deserved the honor. This year, Sun Café was sold, remodeled and then re-opened as Funky Garcia’s, Mexican restaurant and lounge operated by Moe Sadighian, who also owns Tabule on Fourth Avenue.
august 2009 | pacificsandiego.com
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{taste}
dining out
Knock-knock. Who’s there? Egg. Egg who? Egg Zackly (It’s a knock-knock yolk)
The
Yolk’s on
You San Diego’s scrumptious Sunday brunches are no laughing matter
By brandon hernandez
G
etting a late start on a leisurely Sunday brunch in a fabulous resort setting can make any weekend feel like a vacation. And whether you’re an a la carte enthusiast or prefer making a beeline for the buffet, there’s no shortage of great spots in San Diego for noonish noshing.
San Diego has a lot to offer for those who fancy brunch over the less popular linner.
Mediterranean Room at La Valencia Hotel
Photo by Dave Good
Before another fast-paced work week begins, wait for the sun to wake you up, then slow it down by breaking the fast at any of these destination hotels.
august 2009 | pacificsandiego.com
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{taste}
Gold-foil poached egg from the dinner tasting menu
a.
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Photo by Janelle Maas
Photo by Dave Good
Photo by Dave Good
California Bistro at Four Seasons Aviara 7100 Four Seasons Point, Carlsbad 760.603.6800 fourseasons.com/aviara Price: varies by menu item < a> Four Seasons Aviara’s brunch spot may be called California, but it’s the French-inspired culinary touches that add epicurean flare to the Bistro’s delectable dishes comprised of the best of San Diego’s regional harvest. Prime examples of this methode de Français include the eggy brioche used in the wild blueberry and mascarpone cheesestuffed French Toast, the rich Choron (tomato-infused Hollandaise sauce) accompanying the corned beef hash gratin and the freeflowing Champagne. It’s decadence European-style… with a SoCal accent. Oui, oui, dude—free valet parking for Sunday brunchers.
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El Bizcocho at the Rancho Bernardo Inn 17550 Bernardo Oaks Dr., Rancho Bernardo 858.675.8550 ranchobernardoinn.com/bizcocho Price: $39.95/person ($20 for children 5-13)
<B> Over its long and storied history, the Rancho Bernardo Inn’s finedining restaurant, El Bizcocho, has housed more than its fair share of culinary talent. Through it all, Sunday brunch has remained a popular tradition—tables loaded with delicious fresh-baked breads and pastries, gourmet charcuterie and master chef-prepared soups, entrées and desserts have helped this venerable inland spot win the hearts of brunchers countywide. Spice up the epicurean experience with visits to the Bloody Mary Bar.
D.
Grant Grill at the U.S. Grant Hotel 326 Broadway, Downtown 619.744.2077 grantgrill.com Price: varies by menu item
Crown Room at the Hotel Del Coronado 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado 619.522.8490 hoteldel.com/crown-room Price: $72.50/person ($22.95 for children 6-12)
< C>
< d>
Seven distinctly themed stations make for a progressive dining experience at the Hotel Del’s Crown Room, considered San Diego’s top Sunday brunch for decades. Guests can start their culinary journey with dishes based on fresh, locallysourced produce at the Farm-ToTable station, then head to the Southland Coastal line for regional fish and shellfish creations before feasting on fine cheeses at the Eno station. Still hungry? The bountiful Nothing But Chocolate table is located within reach of the all-youcan-eat candy and dessert station.
With its dark wood paneling, cushy leather seats and elegant draperies, the Grant Grill is one posh place to enjoy a delicious brunch. The menu includes upgraded standards like lemon Belgian waffles and chicken Cobb salad plus one-of-a-kind items like Ahi tuna risotto and a tempura shrimp B.L.T. sandwich. There’s even mock turtle soup for the more adventurous palates. Located inside the U.S. Grant Hotel, the Grill gives brunch guests a chance to walk off their meal while exploring one of the city’s most prominent historic landmarks.
dining out
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Photo by Janelle Maas
E.
Photo by Dave Good
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The Restaurant at Rancho Valencia Resort 5921 Valencia Cir., Rancho Santa Fe 858.756.1123 ranchovalencia.com/restaurant Price: varies by menu item
Atoll at the Catamaran Resort Hotel 3999 Mission Blvd., Mission Bay 858.539.8635 catamaranresort.com Price: $39.95/person ($18.95 for children 5-12)
< e> The Old World nature of Rancho Valencia Resort’s fine dining restaurant transports Sunday brunchers to another time and place. Located in the heart of Rancho Santa Fe, the resort offers the epitome of peace and tranquility and is a splendid spot in which to relax while your taste buds go to town on menu items including X.O. soufflé omelets, Huevos Rancho Valencia (an upscale take on the Mexican favorite) and pancakes flavored with lemons grown right at the resort, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.
< F> The sun-kissed Mission Bay views at the Catamaran’s Atoll restaurant can make even San Diego natives feel like visiting sightseers, and the best time to soak it all in is during the restaurant’s famous Champagne Sunday Brunch. Gourmet meets buffet at this family-friendly feast, where guests call the shots at waffle, omelet and salad stations. Other waterfront highlights include a variety of ceviches and made-toorder sushi, custom-built tacos and sinful sweets created by a pastry chef. Reservations recommended.
Kitchen 1540 at L’Auberge Del Mar 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar 858.793.6460 laubergedelmar.com/kitchen1540 Price: varies by menu item
Mediterranean Room at La Valencia Hotel 1132 Prospect St., La Jolla 858.551.3765 lavalencia.com Price: $49/person ($26 for children 5-12)
< G>
< H>
Known as “The Pink Lady of La Jolla,” La Valencia has played host to esteemed guests from all over the world since 1926, but you don’t have to be an out-of-town celebrity to enjoy an al fresco Sunday Champagne Brunch at the hotel’s Mediterranean Room. Guests can pluck Blue Point oysters, Alaskan king crab, leg of lamb and other such prized items from the extensive buffet, then enjoy a leisurely meal from one of the most luxurious perches in the city, where (for now) you can still watch seals lounging at Children’s Pool.
At L’Auberge Del Mar’s KITCHEN 1540, ingredients sourced from the region’s top quality purveyors are transformed into delectable dishes including almond-crusted French Toast with strawberries and mascarpone cheese, California Omelets with Dungeness crab and avocado, and zesty breakfast burritos with chorizo and fresh salsa. If you’re feeling more like lunch, try the salmon with sweet-and-sour pomegranate and fennel salad or a juicy grass-fed Palomar Mountain burger. Make the meal even better by dining in a private cabana. august 2009 | pacificsandiego.com
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Feeling
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After one of these, even “the wildest cougars purr like kittens.”
Bleu?
let bleu bar’s cabana boy turn that frown upside down
By FRank sabatini, jr. / Photo by Janelle Maas
T
hink only Aunt Edna desires the cabana boy? Not so. Thanks to a refreshing summery cocktail, even straight guys are jumping on the cabana wagon. Situated in the idyllic central hub of the newly renovated L’Auberge Del Mar resort, Bleu Bar beckons visitors with cool ocean views and chilled cocktails served by namesake staffers. Cabana Boys (the non-humans) are constructed with equal parts Stoli Vanilla, Stoli Blueberry and Veev, a Brazilian liquor that adds to your swerve high doses of antioxidants originating from açai fruit and acerola cherries. The drink turns peachy red from splashes of orange, pineapple and cranberry juices, while effervescence is achieved with a spritz of soda water. Garnished with orange slices and maraschino cherries. “It’s a juicy and refreshing cocktail designed to make the wildest cougars purr like kittens,” says Chris Puffer, the resort’s food and beverage director. Last year’s version of the Cabana Boy was rumbased. “We changed the recipe this summer because vodkas are more on the tip these days and people prefer clear liquors,” Puffer says. The drink is served in a tall, narrow 12-ounce glass and sells for $10. Lounging poolside with a Cabana Boy... Liberace’s dream has become a reality for all San Diegans.
After Party When you’ve drained your Cabana Boy, climb to the
Waterfall Terrace above Bleu Bar for al fresco ocean-view dining or visit L’Auberge’s Kitchen 1540 for innovative cuisine. Either way, your meal is in good hands—those of chef Paul McCabe, who creates the resort’s menus using local, organic produce, free-range meat and seafood from sustainable sources. If mind and body crave a different sort of feeding, order up a gourmet body treatment: a caviar-algae rub at the resort’s new $3.2 million spa.
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L’Auberge Del Mar 1540 Camino Del Mar 858.259.1515 laubergedelmar.com
PacificSDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
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Sassy sisters serve up bad jokes and cold drinks at Miller’s Field
PunchDrunk
Love
MEET TWO SIBLINGS WHO’ve REPLACED RIVALRY WITH REVELRY By SARAH NARDI / Photo by Janelle Maas
A
s anyone who grew up with a sibling can attest, the relationship is always defined by a particular battle—by the one fight that was so vicious, epic and absurd, it gains a permanent place in family lore. Its origins are always innocuous enough—a sweater borrowed without permission, a snide comment tossed across the dinner table—but the hallmark of the fabled sibling fray is a disproportionately severe reprisal. Something so simple as eating the last piece of cake can culminate in weeks of icy silence or merciless physical retribution. For Lindsey Willis, it ended with a broken nose. Although the exact details surrounding the event shall forever remain a mystery, Willis once said something so horrible to her older sister, Ciara Guedesse, that the latter was compelled to sock her baby sis right in the face. “You wouldn’t believe how much blood there was,” laughs Willis. “It was awful,” adds Guedesse, clearly struggling with residual guilt. “I cried my eyes out.” It was the last fight they ever had. Now, the two self-professed best friends can be found in perfect sororal harmony behind the bar at Miller’s Field, a sprawling bi-level sports bar on Mission Boulevard, in Pacific Beach. The place is a blur of activity—with more than 25 flat-screen televisions broadcasting sporting events—but it’s the gregarious pair of bottle-wielding blondes who command center stage. “We’re both sassy with the customers and we love to tell jokes,” says Willis of the sisters’ appeal. “Bad jokes,” clarifies Guedesse. “Jokes are jokes,” Willis retorts, not missing a beat. The sisters’ lighthearted rapport is so fluid and their laughter so infectious that they’d be just as suited to careers in comedy as in hospitality. One
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Ciara Guedesse <left> Lindsey Willis <right>
half expects them to break into their own rendition “We hate sissy of Who’s On First, a routine that would be entirely drinks. Don’t ask appropriate to Miller’s Field. us for a fancy And though the sisters may seem friendly enough, there are a few things you should know in order to drink, because the stay on their good side. “We hate sissy drinks,” says blender will always Willis. “Don’t ask us for a fancy drink because the be broken.” blender will always be broken.” “A customer bought me a vodka cranberry the other day and I was actually insulted,” adds Guedesse. The best way to butter up these bartenders? Keep it simple. A shot of Jameson for Willis, and Rumple Minze (or “Rumpie,” as it is affectionately known) Miller’s Field for Guedesse. 4465 Mission Blvd., Pacific Beach When asked if the two share any negative traits, 858.483.4143 Willis thinks quietly for a moment before answering: millersfield.com “Well, we probably drink too much and we definitely swear too much.” “Oh,” she adds Become a PacificSD facebook fan to win gift certificates to with a wink, “and some of San Diego’s top bars and restaurants. Check us out at pacificsandiego.com. we pour heavy.”
f
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{ With $50 or more spent on spa services. New clients only. $18 value. }
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888.425.7271 : : revivesalonandspa.com Voted Best Medi-Spa 2007 & 2008 CitySearch Owned & Operated by Vishal Verma, MD and Vinita Parekh, DDS Some restrictions apply. Not valid with any other offers. Call to schedule a complimentary consultation.
cocktail
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music
{groove}
Black Eyed Peas and M.I.A (below)
Rock in a Hard Place
STREET SCENE ROCKS AND ROLLS INTO EAST VILLAGE
Photo by Dimitri Daniloff
August 28 – 29
By JULIE HAGY
B
ig buses with tinted windows don’t just transport tourists (thankfully), they also deliver rock stars to America’s Rockin’est City. And while bringing some of the world’s top musical acts to the streets of East Village must be hard work, being a part of the unforgettable action is easy. As if anyone needed more reasons to staycate in San Diego this summer, here’s another biggie: Street Scene 25 transforms East
Village into a two-night outdoor concert wonderland Saturday and Sunday, August 28 and 29. Pick up a two-day pass and hop aboard one of the hottest weekends of summer, featuring five stages, 45 bands, Miller Genuine Draft beer gardens, a Mardi Gras-esque celebration and so much more. And the best part is, you don’t have to go anywhere—it all happens right here in San Diego. What a trip. august 2009 | pacificsandiego.com
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* PLAYERS Black Eyed Peas M.I.A Thievery Corporation Modest Mouse The Dead Weather Silversun Pickups Cake Conor Oberst & The Mystic Valley Band Of Montreal Band of Horses The Faint Bassnectar Girl Talk Busta Rhymes Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings Chromeo Cage the Elephant Donald Glaude Ted Leo & The Pharmacists Mastodon Ozomatli Devendra Banhart Shooter Jennings Calexico Nortec Collective Bostich & Fusible Delta Spirit West Indian Girl The Knux No Age Ra Ra Riot Dungen Deerhunter Gram Rabbit Matt and Kim Los Campesinos! Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue LA Riots Blue Scholars Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears Wavves Crocodiles Holy F-ck Anya Marina Zee Avi Extra Golden Carney Dirty Sweet subject *artists to change
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pacificsandiego.com | august 2009
Photo by Andrew Strasser
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:
Busta Rhymes Girl Talk Thievery Corporation Cake Modest Mouse
Photo by Andrzej Liguz
Dates: August 28 – 29 Time: 4 p.m. – midnight both nights Location: East Village, between 12th Avenue and 15th Avenue, from J Street to Imperial Avenue Tickets: $122 for a two-day pass (ins and outs okay) Food/Beverages: cash only Projected Attendance: 35,000 (all ages welcome) Info: street-scene.com
WIN STREET SCENE TICKETS Email a funny or outlandish photo of yourself in, on or around your car to contest@pacificsandiego.com by August 10, 2009. Top 10 submissions win a pair of Street Scene tickets and may have their photo published in PacificSD’s September Automotive issue. For more info, visit pacificsandiego.com.
San Diego
{groove}
cocktail
bartender
music
That Thing
You Do
NORTH PARK MUSIC THING amps up for a command performance By SARAH NARDI
K
evin Hellman is a busy man. He can be heard typing furiously as he speaks on the phone and he abandons the conversation more than once to curse a failing web server. “I’m sorry,” he offers, laughing at his own distraction. “There’s just so much going on.” That Hellman would be preoccupied is understandable. He’s the man in charge of the North Park Music Thing (NPMT), a massive three-day music conference and festival that will host a roster of notable speakers and showcase nearly 150 acts on 20 stages throughout San Diego. Now in its second year (formerly going by the name North by North Park), NPMT kicks off on Friday, August 7, with an opening party at The Casbah featuring the debut performance of local band theCollapse! The conference, which will comprise a series of panel discussions, workshops and demo review sessions, is set for Saturday at the Lafayette Hotel on El Cajon Boulevard in North Park. A litany of local insiders will join industry veterans to guide musicians through a range of discussion topics including: Marketing & Merchandising, Licensing & Publishing and Publicity & Promotion: Crafting the Buzz. “This whole thing has really shaped up beautifully,” says Seth Combs, a local music writer who will serve as a panelist this year. “San Diego is a really hot scene right now because of several local bands that have blown up recently.” That local talent, in addition to bands from all over the Southwest, will be on display during Saturday night’s Club Music Festival, an epic multi-venue event spanning some of the city’s hottest nightspots. Travis Trevisan, front-man of the local indie group Tape Deck Mountain, is definitely looking Tape Deck Mountain forward to being a part NPMT this
WHAT’S IN A NAME? Kevin Hellman answers the burning question: Why did the festival change its name from North by North Park to North Park Music Thing this year? “The folks at South By Southwest (Austin’s annual music and film festival) complained,” he explains. “We could have fought it, but our money is better spent elsewhere.” Good call. All proceeds from NPMT benefit the San Diego Music Foundation, a non-profit organization that focuses on local musicians, music education and live performance in San Diego. 48
pacificsandiego.com | august 2009
Presidents of the United States of America
year. “We tried to get into U-31 (a popular North Park bar) just to see a show last year, but it was too crowded,” he says with a laugh. “So we’re excited to be performing this time around.” Tape Deck Mountain, which recently released its first album, Ghost, will perform at Bar Pink on Saturday night. NPMT wraps up on Sunday with an all-day street festival featuring 15 acts on three stages, a sprawling beer garden, an art show and a slew of local vendors. “We’ve added a lot this year,” Hellman says. “Its much, much bigger.” Headliners are set to include Presidents of the United States of America, Black Heart Procession and El Vez ( known as “The Mexican Elvis”). So, does the NPMT cement San Diego’s status as a real upand-comer on the national music scene? “Absolutely,” answers Trevisan. “I don’t know what’s going on, but there’s a crazy amount of talent in San Diego right now. There must be something in the water.”
npmt 411 Friday, August 7: Opening Party at The Casbah (2501 Kettner Blvd. • Tickets: $5 at the door Saturday, August 8: Conference at the Layfayette Hotel (2223 El Cajon Blvd.) and Club Music Fest (multi-venue) • Tickets: Two-day badge costs $30 and grants entrance to all workshops, club shows and Sunday’s Street Fest Sunday, August 9: Street Fest on El Cajon Boulevard in front of the Layfayette Hotel Advance tickets: $15 • Day of: $20 (Box office located at corner of Texas Street and El Cajon Boulevard) Info: Visit sandiegomusicfoundation.org for tickets and a complete list of bands playing Saturday’s Club Music Festival
SUNDAY LINEUP The Night Marchers Presidents of the United States of America Scott Russo & The Big Big Bang Black Heart Procession Uncle Joe’s Big Ol Driver Avi Buffalo Steve Poltz & The Rugburns El Vez Shark Attack
DAILY SPECIALS
MONDAY
INDUSTRY NIGHT 50% OFF BILL 9PM TO CLOSE
TUESDAY HALF OFF APPETIZERS 6PM TO CLOSE
WEDNESDAY GOLDFISH RACING 9PM TO CLOSE
THURSDAY $3 U-CALL-IT! 9PM TO CLOSE
FRIDAY
GOOD-TIME DJS NO COVER
SATURDAY DJ JCEE NO COVER
SUNDAY
SUNDAY FUN DAY! DJs DURING THE DAY ALL STAR KARAOKE 9PM TO CLOSE $3 U-CALL-IT!
EVERYDAY $3 DOS XX & BUD $3 TACOS
SUNSETS SERVED DAILY
UFC FIGHTS! EVERY EVENT! - KITCHEN OPEN TIL 10PM 858.272.SURF - PBSHORECLUB.COM - MYSPACE.COM/PBSHORECLUB ON THE BOARDWALK WHERE GRAND MEETS THE SAND
4343 OCEAN BOULEVARD - PACIFIC BEACH, CALIFORNIA
calendar aug COMPILED By DANIELLE WARREN
greg LasWeLL / Casbah, casbahmusic.com hIPPIeFesT 2009 WITh The TUrTLes, ChUCK NegroN, FeLIX CaVaLIere aNd more / Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com 8/4: JUdas PrIesT WITh WhITesNaKe / SDSU Open Air Theatre, ticketmaster.com 8/5: PaT greeN / House of Blues, hob.com 8/7: seaN KeLLY / Anthology, anthologysd.com 8/7: seaN haNNITY Freedom CoNCerT WITh BILLY raY CYrUs, CharLIe daNIeLs aNd Lee greeNWood / Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre, ticketmaster.com 8/8: No doUBT / Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre, ticketmaster.com 8/10: dIaNa KraLL / Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com 8/13: ToBY KeITh WITh TraCe adKINs / Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre, ticketmaster.com 8/13: JaCKsoN BroWNe / Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com 8/14: dePeChe mode WITh PeTer BJorN / Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre, ticketmaster.com 8/15: Los LoNeLY BoYs WITh Los LoBos / The Park at Viejas Casino, ticketmaster.com 8/15: FLamINg LIPs / Del Mar Racetrack, delmarscene.com 8/19: TraCY ChaPmaN / Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com 8/19: The CULT / House of Blues, hob.com 8/20: greeN daY / Cox Arena, ticketmaster.com 8/20: CodY ChesNUTT / Belly Up Tavern, bellyup.com 8/21: KINgs oF LeoN / Cox Arena, ticketmaster.com 8/21-22: Jose FeLICIaNo / Embarcadero Marina Park South, ticketmaster.com 8/22: VaNs WarP ToUr 2009 WITh Bad reLIgIoN, meg aNd dIa, ChIodos aNd more Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre, ticketmaster.com 8/22: Beres hammoNd WITh CULTUre / WaveHouse, wavehousesandiego.com 8/22: sTeeL PULse / Del Mar Racetrack, delmarscene.com 8/25: ChrIs IsaaK / Humphrey’s Concerts by the Bay, humphreysconcerts.com
}
8/1: 8/2:
{Milestones}
Submit events to calendar@pacificsandiego.com
{Listen}
AT THE LAFAYETTE HOTEL 2223 EL CAJON BLVD · NORTH PARK FRIDAY · AUG 7 OPENING NIGHT AT THE CASBAH
TheCollapse! (FEATURING MEMBERS OF LUCYS FUR
{
20 STAGES · 150+ BANDS
CIRQUE DE LA SYMPHONIE
COAT, ROCKET FROM THE CRYPT & LOUIS XIV) AND THIN MAN · TIX ONLY AT THE DOOR
Watch and listen as the San Diego Symphony joins forces with one of the most popular acrobatics shows in the world, using classical music to amplify performances by soaring aerial artists, superhuman strongmen, jugglers and more. DATE: August 1 • TICKETS: $15-$75 VENUE: Embarcadero Marina Park South, Downtown INFO: 619.235.0804, sandiegosymphony.org
SUNDAY · AUG 9
RINGLING BROTHERS AND BARNUM AND BAILEY CIRCUS
{1}
AUG
SATURDAY · AUG 8
11AM-5PM · MUSIC INDUSTRY WORKSHOPS 7PM-2AM · NPMT MUSIC FESTIVAL
Exotic animals, deathdefying feats and clowns will make you feel like a kid in a carnie store.
11AM-4:30PM · MUSIC INDUSTRY WORKSHOPS NOON - 7:30PM · NPMT STREET FESTIVAL FEATURING
DATE: August 5-9 TICKETS: $17.50-$83.50 VENUE: San Diego Sports Arena INFO: 619.220.8497, ringling.com
Courtesy of San Diego Symphony
{5-9}
AUG
PRESIDENTS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA THE NIGHT MARCHERS BLACKHEART PROCESSION
NORTH PARK MUSIC THING
SCOTT RUSSO & THE BIG BIG BANG EL VEZ · STEVE POLTZ AND THE RUGBURNS
Sa t u rda y /Su n d a y 2 D a y Pa s s e s
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SHARK ATTACK · AVI BUFFALO · WRITER AND MORE! only $25 in advance/$30 at the door
available at www.northparkmusicthing.com
(formerly North By North Park) The second annual three-day music event features 150 bands and musicians on 20 stages, business workshops and panel discussions for musicians and a street fair on El Cajon Boulevard. Proceeds benefit the San Diego Music Foundation. Story page 48 DATE: August 7-9 (concert August 8, fair August 9) • TICKETS: $25-$35 VENUE: Lafayette Hotel, El Cajon • INFO: sandiegomusicfoundation.org
CITYFEST 2009 Help commemorate the 25th anniversary of the lighting of the Hillcrest sign at Cityfest, featuring two stages of live entertainment, beer and spirit gardens and 300 art and food vendors.
7/17/09 5:03:38 PM
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DATE: August 9 • TICKETS: Free VENUE: Hillcrest along 5th Avenue and University Avenue INFO: 619.299.3330, hillcrestbusinessassociation.com
NPMT_2.5x9.875_pacific.indd 1
8/1: mTV debuts (1981) 8/4: Barack Obama turns 48 8/15: International homeless animals day 8/19: National Aviation Day 8/21: ramadan begins at sundown 8/25: Regis Philbin turns 78 8/26: 19th amendment gives women right to vote (1920)
Grain to glass, farm to table. Enjoy the next fabulous Cook’s Confab event, as San Diego’s top chefs and talented brewers team up to pair gourmet cuisine with delicious beer on the rooftop at Stingaree. DATE: August 9 • TICKETS: $90 VENUE: Stingaree, Downtown INFO: 619.544.9500, cooksconfab.com
NATIONAL KICKBALL CHAMPIONSHIP
MIDNIGHT MADNESS FUN BICYCLE RIDE Pedal for a medal at the 36th annual event, where more than 1,000 cyclists (many in costumes and with decorated bikes) set off at midnight for a 20-mile ride around San Diego. DATE: August 15 TICKETS: $30-$35 VENUE: Race starts at the San Diego County Administration Building, Downtown INFO: 619.338.9981, midnightmadness.sandiegohostels.org
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CRAFT BEER
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STONE 13 ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION AND INVITATIONAL BEER FESTIVAL th
DATE: August 22 • TICKETS: $35-$40 VENUE: Cal State San Marcos • INFO: 760.471.4999, stonebrew.com
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Help raise money for local charities while enjoying fine food, homebrewed sodas and more than 100 beers from specialty brewers worldwide at Stone Brewing Company’s annual event.
TKO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Cheer ringside at a Junior Middleweight World Title bout between world-ranked contenders Zaurebek Baysangurov of Russia and Grady Brewer, winner of ESPN’s The Contender, Season Two.
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DATE: August 22 • TICKETS: $25-$100 VENUE: Pala Casino Resort and Spa INFO: 877.946.7252, palacasino.com
LUAU AND LONGBOARD INVITATIONAL AUG
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DATE: August 23 • TICKETS: Free to watch surf contest, $150 for Luau VENUE: Scripps Pier, La Jolla INFO: 858.822.0023, longboardluau.org
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ALT.PICTURESHOWS ‘09
Watch stunning and innovative live action and animated short films, including the Oscarnominated This Way Up, at the seventh annual short-film showcase. (Note: many films are unrated and feature adult content.) DATE: August 27 • TICKETS: $5 general admission VENUE: MCASD Downtown • INFO: 858.454.3541, mcasd.org
RELAY FOR LIFE Walk or run through downtown during a 24hour relay that celebrates the lives of cancer survivors, remembers loved ones lost to the disease and raises money for research. One day. One night. One community. One Fight. DATE: August 15 TICKETS: $10 registration fee VENUE: Embarcadero Marina Park North, Downtown INFO: relayforlife.org
WICKED Follow the yellow brick road to discover the real story behind the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch from The Wizard of Oz in this Grammy- and Tonyaward winning musical. DATE: Through August 30 TICKETS: $25-$138 VENUE: Civic Theatre, Downtown INFO: 619.564.3000, broadwaysd.com
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STREET SCENE
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Story page 45 Celebrate life in paradise as the 25th annual two-day concert event rocks San Diego with big-name bands including Black Eyed Peas, Beastie Boys, M.I.A., Thievery Corporation, Modest Mouse and more. 45 bands, 5 stages, 2 nights, 1 helluva good time.
Photo by Dimitri Daniloff
DATE: August 28-29 • TICKETS: $122 for a two-day pass VENUE: East Village, Downtown • INFO: street-scene.com
Photo by Joan Marcus
Padres home games 8/1-2: Padres vs. Milwaukee Brewers 8/3-5: Padres vs. Atlanta Braves 8/6-9: Padres vs. New York Mets 8/17-19: Padres vs. Chicago Cubs 8/20-23: Padres vs. St. Louis Cardinals 8/31: Padres vs. Washington Nationals
Get into the aloha spirit by Photo by Geoff Scott watching hot, young talent compete alongside longboarding legends in a morning surf contest followed by an afternoon luau with Hawaiian food, live music and a live auction benefiting cancer research in San Diego.
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DATE: August 15 • TICKETS: $35 per person or $350 per team VENUE: Liberty Station’s NTC Park, Point Loma INFO: 858.273.3485, govavi.com
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Compete or just cheer along at VAVi Sport & Social Club’s second annual event, which pits coed teams of 12-15 players against each other to recreate schoolyard memories (with the added benefits of live music and a beer garden).
{love} blind date
Occidental Tourists
an east coast woman meets a midwest man for a west coast blind date Photos by Janelle Maas
G
ood afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Before we get rolling today, let’s review a few safety precautions. First, please keep your hands and feet inside the vehicle at all times. Next, as we proceed through today’s blind-date adventure, please do not talk to, feed or throw things at any of the tourists you
may see throughout the city. Remember, they’re people, too… sort of. Finally, if you feel sick at anytime, please raise your hand so whoever’s seated next to you can move away quickly. And please don’t hesitate to push the call button at any time. Katrina is a 31-year-old bookkeeper from
Florida who currently lives with two roommates in University Heights. Jeff, a 33-year-old insurance salesman from Ohio, lives alone in Del Mar. Today, the two will meet for the first time and be treated to a fabulous San Diego staycation experience.
{Before the trip begins, let’s meet the daters…} PacificSD asks…
He says...
She says...
Describe your personality in seven words.
I can do it in one: Gemini.
I make them good boys go bad.
What do you do for fun?
Anything outdoors, going out to restaurants, going out with friends.
I love to cook, go hiking and check out art galleries and museums.
Where were you born and where do you live now?
Born in Akron, Ohio. Currently live in Del Mar.
West Palm Beach, Florida and University Heights.
What is your least favorite thing about yourself?
Nada.
Ha! I am so not about to point out my flaws to be published.
What’s the sexiest thing about you?
You’ll have to ask my date.
Isn’t that up to my date to decide? I guess I would say my eyes.
What’s your favorite smell?
Just before it rains.
The rain.
What’s your favorite movie?
Animal House.
Vicki Christina Barcelona.
What jobs have you had?
I blacktopped driveways, was a restaurant worker and did retail sales, which were all pre-college graduation. Now I sell financial products, mainly life insurance.
Lots—bartending, retail sales and insurance underwriting, to name a few. Currently I’m a bookkeeper for a local restaurant.
What will you be doing five years from now?
Living the American dream.
I live very much in this moment. The future is uncertain. That’s how I prefer it.
In what historical period would you like to have lived and why?
1920s—an era called the Roaring Twenties, why not?
The 1920s—the fashion was fun and glamorous.
How would you spend a staycation day in San Diego?
Hiking places that have outstanding views, like Torrey Pines. Midday, relaxing on the beach in Del Mar. In the evening, dinner at any of Downtown’s top restaurants, then drinks overlooking amazing ocean views.
Hike at Torrey Pines, relax on the beach, maybe an art gallery in La Jolla, then Downtown to Syrah for drinks.
K
atrina and Jeff have a lot in common— the smell of rain, a fondness for life in the Twenties, work in the insurance industry—but it’s their dream vacations that have the most uncanny similarities. If we’re lucky, tonight might be the first time in a 52
pacificsandiego.com | august 2009
while that blind daters actually hook… Let’s not jinx it. The couple meets for the first time on the roof deck of a San Diego Harbor Excursion tour boat, where they’ll be treated to a one-hour waterside tour of the city and points south to
the Coronado Bay Bridge and beyond. As the deafening air horn of a Carnival cruise ship erupts across the bay, the vessel, packed with a hundred tourists, launches into calm waters under crystal-clear skies. (Continued on page 54)
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B R E A K F A S T PACIFIC BEACH:
A N D
â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;
Roll Rock n
g
Duelin
Pianos
L U N C H OPEN DAILY
1851 Garnet Ave.
858.270.YOLK
6AM - 3PM
EASTLAKE:
OUTDOOR PATIO
884 Eastlake Pkwy.
619.216.1144 LA COSTA:
7670 El Camino Real
760.943.8182 GASLAMP:
SUN, TUE, WED, THUR
355 6th Ave.
Open at 7pm, Pianos at 8pm
619.338.YOLK
FRI, SAT
Open at 6pm, Pianos at 6:30pm
NO COVER Sun- Wed 655 4th Ave,
www.thebrokenyolkcafe.com
www.TheShoutHouse.com
{love} blind date When the Bull’s a-Rockin’ Please Come a-Knockin’
THE WILD RIDE CONTINUES
B
ack on dry land, Katrina and Jeff jump in a purple taxi and head over to Double Deuce for cocktails and to ride the venue’s famed mechanical bull. Upon arrival at the Deuce, Katrina refuses to ride the powerful beast (the bull, not Jeff), blaming the fact that she’s wearing a dress. “We have overalls,” announces the man behind the hydraulic controls. No dice. Jeff convinces Katrina to pose for photos atop the mighty toro, but only on the condition that the bull not move. After an ungraceful dismount, Jeff admits that he wouldn’t have ridden either. “A spinning bull plus no food plus alcohol wouldn’t have made for a good combination,” he says. After all the bull, the couple is split for middate debriefings.
54
PacificSD asks…
He says...
She says...
How’s it going so far?
It’s going well. She’s a very attractive young woman. Beautiful eyes, very happy person, laughs a lot.
Really well. It’s super fun. He’s real easy to talk to. I’m having a good time.
How was the boat?
The boat ride was fun. Beautiful views. It’s an amazing way to see the harbor and the Navy ships and the Coronado Bridge.
To be honest, we were talking the entire time, so I kinda missed some of the sights.
Rate your date from one to ten, physically.
Eight.
Eight.
And for personality?
Nine.
Nine.
What’s your date’s best quality?
That she seems so happy, like the free spirit type.
He’s very open and easy to talk to.
Worst?
I haven’t seen anything bad yet.
He’s a Gemini and, in my experience, they definitely have two sides.
What’s the best way the date could end?
It would end with a good night kiss, I guess.
Hanging out after dinner and having more drinks.
And the worst way?
If she ends up drinking too much and getting sick.
With him not taking my number.
What would you do if your date leaned over to kiss you?
I would not hurt her feelings.
I think that would still be a little awkward at this point.
What would your date do if you leaned over for a kiss?
She’d kiss me back.
<laughs> I would not!… Well, not yet.
S
ome days, things just click—Katrina and Jeff are having a good time. They enjoyed the boat ride, their pastel clothing matched the
pacificsandiego.com | august 2009
purple taxi and they both gave each other an “eight” for looks and a “nine” for personality. What’s more, she wants him to ask for her number and he’s pretty sure she
would kiss him back. The next logical step? A trip to the boom-boom room, of course. (Continued on page 56)
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{love} blind date Boom Boom Pow!
IT’S NOT JUST A BLACK EYED PEAS SONG ANYMORE
N
o San Diego staycation could be complete without Mexican food, so the couple departs Double Deuce for a leisurely stroll over to Fred’s Mexican Café on Fifth Avenue. Arm-in-arm, they laugh as they walk through the Gaslamp. The city streets are bustling. So they can feel like regular tourists, the daters are escorted to Fred’s non-exclusive and very unprivate Boom Boom Room for dinner. They order drinks, feed each other nachos and look pretty much just like a regular couple, right down to the matching outfits. As the magazine crew prepares to leave, Katrina and Jeff are spotted kissing in their booth at Fred’s. PacificSD calls the next day to see what we missed. PacificSD asks…
He says...
She says...
Overall, how was last night?
Last night was surprisingly fun and very interesting.
It was fun. The experience pushed me out of my comfort zone a little.
What was your date’s most endearing quality?
She has a great sense of humor, likes outdoor activities like hiking and is a huge college-football fan.
He’s very attentive. He always made sure to pull out my chair and open doors for me.
And your date’s worst quality?
She has a tattoo on the back of her neck. I’m not a huge fan of tattoos.
He’s a Gemini, which isn’t really his fault. I just won’t ever seriously date one.
What’s the sexiest thing your date did last night?
I offered her to try my food and I ended up feeding her a few bites. I’m sure that doesn’t happen a lot. It was sexy in its own way.
His momma taught him well—he made sure to open doors for me, pull out my chair and, in general, just look out for me.
You and your date were kissing in the booth at Fred’s. How did that start?
I think you have us mistaken for someone else.
A lady doesn’t kiss and tell.
What happened after you two were alone?
I don’t kiss and tell. Nice try.
My roommates met up with us and we all hung out some more.
Will you see each other again?
Possibly.
Maybe. Jeff’s a nice guy, there’s just no potential for us to date
Yesterday you rated your date an “eight” and a “nine.” How about now?
Eight for both.
Seven and seven.
{Aftermatch:}
T
he day started out perfectly—a harbor tour under clear skies, shared fears of a bull ride, even a kiss in the Boom Boom Room. Before they met, through the mid-date interviews and even as the magazine crew was leaving, Katrina and Jeff seemed to have everything in common. In the end, however, the only thing they seemed to agree on was not kissing and telling. But what really happened? Something knocked Jeff down to “sevens” from his near perfect scores for looks and personality. Was it the kiss? Did something happen in or after
56
pacificsandiego.com | august 2009
the Boom Boom Room? Was it the fact that he’s a Gemini? Or Katrina’s neck tattoo (of two ribbons tied into a bow, by the way)? Maybe it was just one of those things that happens when you travel— everything is going fine, then the airline loses your luggage. But what we really want to know is, after the kiss at Fred’s, did the flight continue as most do? The engine roars, the plane inches down the tarmac and Jeff whispers… “Place this gently over your nose and mouth.” We’ll just never know. One thing we do know is that you have a lot of choices when you travel, and we thank you for flying PacificSD. Please come see us again next month.
{Celebrity Observations} Maverick (Tom Cruise in Top Gun): “It’s classified. I could tell you, but then I’d have to kill you.” Amy Winehouse: “Wait, what happened?” Michael Phelps: “Did somebody say nachos?”
Thank you to the friendly folks at San Diego Harbor Excursions, Double Deuce and Fred’s Mexican Café
Double Deuce 528 F St., Gaslamp 619.450.6522 doubledeucesd.com Fred’s Mexican Café 527 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp 619.232.TACO fredsmexicancafe.com San Diego Harbor Excursions 619.234.4111 or 800.44.CRUISE sdhe.com
{think}
Cogito Ergo Vroom! I THINK THEREFORE I DRIVE By SARAH NARDI
S
omeone once told me that there’s no such thing as a native San Diegan—that such a creature is mythical, like the unicorn or a balanced budget. And though I’ve since met enough indigenous residents to disprove the claim, I continue to be amazed at the sheer number of regional transplants roaming the streets and beaches. Like a lot of people, I came here from the Midwest, seeking asylum from brutal winters and frustrating politics (mission partially accomplished…). And when I arrived, I found that slipping into that So Cal state of mind was going to require more than purchasing a pair of Reefs. At no time were my foreign conventions more apparent than while driving when, having been schooled on the mean streets of Chicago, I found myself having to learn a new set of rules for the road. For one thing, drivers here seem to maintain a relationship with turn signals that can be described as casual at best. You may turn, you may not. Why let a signal spoil the surprise? San Diegans are also far less inclined to honk at a driver who, staring blissfully out at the horizon, fails to notice that the light has turned green. I’ve spent many a “staycation” at a particularly scenic intersection not wanting to be the only one in a line of otherwise benevolent vehicles honking like a maniac. I’ve further learned that however gentle in-town driving may be, to be lulled into a false sense of security is to be brutalized on the freeway. Whatever sense of fraternity and patience drivers may extend one another on city streets is checked at the on-ramp, making
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pacificsandiego.com | august 2009
the freeways a terrifying exercise in Hobbesian self-preservation. And finally, though I may no longer have to emancipate my car from three feet of snow, I now have to contend with the fact that irrespective of my proximity to the beach, it will always contain an inordinate and inexplicable amount of sand (a phenomenon that also extends to my shoes, shower and bed). But I’m not complaining. I, like so many fellow seekers of manifest destiny, am learning to relax and just go with it. I may never be a native, but with enough practice, I (and my car) can merge (without signaling, perhaps) seamlessly into the flow. Buckle up as we head towards September and our automotive issue. In the meantime… Stay Gassy, San Diego.
WOW
boom boom
Party at the epicenter
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SAT:
have great taste!
8pm-10pm: Vodka, beer and tequila tastings (everyone’s invited) { Sauza Acai Tequila, Sauza Jamaica Tequila, Svedka Vodka, Longboard Island Lager }
party like a rockstar!
10pm-midnight: $2.50 Svedka Vodka + Rockstars
gimme a light!
10pm-midnight: $2.50 Bud Light bottles
THU
$2 DRINKS Hot DJs, bangin’bass & dope-ass beats * { $10.95 Filet Mignon Dinners }
FRI
PACIFIC BEACH’S WORST KEPT SECRET Friday Happy Hour (4-10pm) $2 drinks + Free Food
SUN
INDUSTRY NIGHT Food/Drink: Almost Everything FREE or $2
SHOP BRILLIANTLY. ADIDAS, BANANA REPUBLIC FACTORY STORE, BARNEYS NEW YORK OUTLET, BCBGMAXAZRIA, COLE HAAN, CONVERSE. TWO AREA LOCATIONS. GAP OUTLET, GUESS, J.CREW, JUICY COUTURE, KENNETH COLE, LACOSTE, LUCKY BRAND, NEIMAN MARCUS LAST CALL, NIKE, * POLO RALPH LAUREN FACTORY STORE, PUMA AND MORE. SAVINGS OF 25% TO 65% EVERY DAY. *STORES VARY PER CENTER.
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