Presidio Sentinel, May 2013. Vol. 14, No. 4

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

Volume 14, No. 4

www.PresidioSentinel.com

May | 2013

Scott & Quinn has three offices, in Mission Hills at 1111 Fort Stockton Drive, in Normal Heights at 30th and Adams Avenue, and in South Park at 2973 Beech Street. The company also features Scott & Quinn Property Management. Founded in 1982, Scott & Quinn is the oldest full service real estate firm in Mission Hills and is still locally owned and operated. Jim has been a homeowner in Mission Hills since 1976. Jim’s past Market Reports dating from 1997 are on the company web site at www.sqre.com.

Jim Scott, Broker, DRE #830226, 619-920-9511

The spring real estate rally shows no signs of slowing. The media is in bull market mode with many stories on depleted inventories, bidding wars, appreciation, and frustrated buyers. Further, an article appeared in the local paper a week ago with an improbable headline proclaiming prices had increased 19 percent over the past year. That news got my phone ringing, but the increase was statistical gerrymandering. Mission Hills’ prices, for example, are only up about 15 percent over the past three years.

Even so, there is only good news for San Diego’s beleaguered homeowners, many with negative equity. The data suggests there will be a period of moderate appreciation, probably lasting four to five years. Those looking for double-digit increases will be disappointed. Income growth and the Federal Reserve Board will keep prices in check.

Looking at the past three up-markets does provide some rationale for the exuberant view of housing’s future. From 1976 to 1980 prices doubled. Beginning in 1986, there was a three year run that saw home values jump 20 percent a year. Appreciation escalated far more slowly during 1996-2007. Considering mortgage rates were lower in the 1996-2007 market, the rising market during the 1996-2007 cycle seems comparatively modest.

There are two major concerns. The first is that each market upcycle is less robust than its predecessor. The second, and of greater concern, is that each of the past four recessions has been more destructive than the one before. Although these two patterns may be insignificant, I would argue otherwise. Recessions correct market distortions; this past downturn was particularly brutal because of the credit debacle.

To make sense of the changes in the character of these cycles, experts look for changes in market variables. One article written by a scholar from conservative think tank the American Enterprise Institute, argues that today’s real estate values are not completely set by the free market, but instead are inflated (and supported) by Federal policies and housing agencies. If this argument has merit, as I believe it does, the future of prices, even in San Diego, may be influenced more by Washington than by sellers and buyers engaging in honest price discovery.

There are three ways Washington is involved in the real estate marketplace. The most well known way is the mortgage interest deduction. Although limited to mortgages under one million, this program is a direct subsidy for house payments. Having the benefits of this tax expenditure allows buyers to purchase more property than they ordinarily could afford which in turn supports higher prices. The

mortgage interest deduction is just as revered as Social Security and Medicare, but as the budget compromises of 2013 illustrate, these sacred cows are not invulnerable. The Pease Limitation, which reduces the deductibility of mortgage interest for higher wage earners, was just reinstated after a four year hiatus. And I would not be surprised to see the mortgage interest deduction limit reduced to $750,000 from $1,000,000 during the next budget cycle.

Second, the twin agencies run by the Federal Housing Finance Agency, commonly known as Freddie and Fannie, have a huge influence on the cost and availability of mortgages, which in turn has an outsized influence on home prices. These corporations, known as GSEs (government sponsored enterprises) own or guarantee half of all mortgages in this country. Without the Federal insurance, banks would receive less money for their mortgage-backed securities on the secondary market. Higher loan rates reduce real estate purchasing power.

Third, as discussed last month, Mr. Bernanke at the Fed is committed to keeping mortgage rates at historic lows. Each month the Fed purchases treasuries and mortgage backed securities, artificially keeping 30-year home loans under four percent. One has to wonder just how robust the real estate market would be with six or seven percent rates.

Privatization has been an economic and political touchstone for many over the past few decades.

It is not a giant leap to think that housing, over the next few years, could lose some federal largesse as Washington struggles to rein in budget deficits. The mortgage interest deduction will be in play in future budget cycles. Freddie and Fannie, although now in profit, recently needed 180 billion from the taxpayers to stay afloat. Without Mr. Bernanke’s commitment to support housing prices, the cost of saving Freddie and Fannie from bankruptcy would have been much higher. Finally, if general inflation becomes a problem, the Fed could easily tamp down real estate prices with punishing interest rates.

The net economic effect of these potential changes is hard to calculate. The citizenry has to make some difficult choices over the next two or three budget cycles and housing will take some hits. Most of these changes will be applied gradually and these new policies will dampen effective housing demand, keeping the market orderly, which is good for the society and the economy. Mr. Bernanke, on the other hand, has the ability to shut the party down quickly if things get out of hand. And I am sure he has Paul Volker’s phone number.

1809 West Montecito WayMission Hills • $1,650,000

Spacious Craftsman in the heart of North Mission Hills. 4 Bedrooms and 2.5 baths accented by gorgeous hardwood floors, built-ins, window seats, box beam ceilings, moldings and wood trim. The kitchen has been remodeled and opens to the family room. All four bedrooms are on the upper level. A beautiful home on a very desirable street.

Call Jim Scott, Broker (DRE#830226) at 619-920-9511

The Three Legged Stool

Coronado Home Tour on Mother’s Day.

Cinco de Mayo in Old Town.

Dana Middle School performs.

Dogs walk for dogs. 13 15127

Born To Do Something Chef Miguel Earns National Honors

by Patty Ducey-Brooks

Born To Do Something Chef Miguel Earns National Honors

by Patty Ducey-Brooks

Executive Chef Miguel Valdez and his son share a special moment.

This past month, Chef Miguel Valdez, executive chef of the Red Door Restaurant and Wine Bar and its sister restaurant, The Wellington Steak and Martini Lounge in Mission Hills received the “Faces of Diversity” Award at the National Restaurant Association’s Public Affairs Conference Gala in Washington, DC. Continued on pg. 8

WEB EDITIONMay 2013

Serving the Heart of San Diego

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There’s never an absence of things to write about and I have never experienced “writer’s block,” despite prayers by others to that end, but sometimes real life interrupts and one must focus on matters other than single subject columns.

So, rather than writing at length about a particular issue this month, I will reflect on one significant to me, and then a note about a man whose political cartoons amused many, outraged others – but seldom missed their mark.

This was a Facebook posting of mine on Sunday, April 21, but revised and expanded:

“BEST TV DRAMA: WHO CAN SAVE THE ‘TODAY’ SHOW?” was The New York Times cover story.

Really? That’s the best The Times can do, another story about “Today”?

Should the 306 million Americans who do not watch “Today” care whether it’s saved, whether it regains its place as the USA’s number one morning show or slips further behind “Good Morning America”? Should hard working Americans give a damn about Matt Lauer and his $25 million a year job?

Of course not, but unlike editors of The New York Times Magazine and their circle of we know best what’s best for America, people

Moral Outrage & Herblock By George Mitrovich

between sports and arts coverage by media:

“Several years ago The Denver Post ran a story on how many people attend sporting events in Colorado’s capitol city, judged by some America’s greatest sports town. The answer for the year cited was 5.5 million attended games played by Denver’s major league baseball, NFL, NBA, and NHL teams. An impressive figure to be sure, one that few cities in the world could match.

“But here’s an even more impressive figure: While 5. 5 million went to sports events, 8.5 million attended arts events! But having featured the story, The Post promptly forgot its message – people care about and support the arts and do so in numbers greater than that given athletic competition!”

Yes, I hold The New York Times to a higher standard than other media, which is why when that great newspaper chooses to write about Matt Lauer and Today, I was angered – but it it’s an anger born of moral outrage.

I invite you to share my outrage – but not only share it but tell media to get its priorities right.

who actually live meaningful lives, lives rooted in family, faith and community; who worry about their children and grandchildren and America’s future, don’t have time to fret, fuss or worry about Matt Lauer. Maybe the magazine’s editors think people obsess about Mr. Lauer’s fate, whether he did or didn’t diss Ann Curry behind her back to NBC officials, whether he should be replaced by someone younger (and just as vanilla), that people are thereby so caught up in his drama they willingly suspend concerns about their own fate.

Sorry NYT magazine editors, that’s not the way it is. It’s not even close. And if you as editors would spend more time trying to understand what 306 million of your countrymen think, you probably wouldn’t gave a rat’s rear about Matt Lauer, either.

If my annoyance about coverage given Matt Lauer puzzles you, I will endeavor to explain.

Media’s obsession with celebrity, at whatever level or profession, from television to movies, from athletes to Wall Street titans, reflects media’s moral rot; the whole preposterous idea that Matt Lauer being paid $25 million to sit in front of TV cameras and make nice is of any consequence in people’s lives – because it’s not!

In the meanwhile, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, stories that cry out for coverage, for attention, go begging.

Such as the 40 million of our fellow citizens living in poverty; the state of our health care system that excludes millions; an infrastructure increasingly in shambles; the helplessness felt by millions in search of sustainable employment and millions more who stopped looking because they know there are no jobs; the ever downward spiral of public education; and, up close and personal, our United States Marines fighting in Afghanistan whose families back here at Camp Pendleton require food stamps to survive – these are among many just, moral and legitimate concerns.

So we’re clear, it’s not that media ignores these issues altogether, but rather media’s overwhelming tilt to Matt Lauer’s stories vs Real Life Stories.

Eight years ago I gave a major speech – as 4,382 words – to the East Valley Partnership’s Evening of the Arts annual celebration held in the Organ Hall of the School of Music at Arizona State University (a speech subsequently reprinted in Vital Speeches of the Day).

In my speech, I drew a distinction

Mine Eyes Have Seen

George Mitrovich

5 A Tribute to My Dad. National Comedy Theatre’s High School League Competition.

Jane Austen in San Diego.

Tom Rush at AMSD Concerts.Fashion Week San Diego is Back.

Gator by the Bay Returns.

Dana Mariners Captivate Packed Playhouse.

California Ballet Company Presents Swan Lake.

Continued on page 7

George Mitrovich is a San Diego civic leader and may be reached at, [email protected].

Featured Stories Featured Events

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© A Publication of Presidio Communications | May 20134


Local News



5Local News

A Tr ibute to My Dad, Clarence Wilbert HerrmanBy Patty Ducey-Brooks

Over the past year, I’ve had to say goodbye to some very special friends and family members. However, I wasn’t expect-ing that one of those peo-ple would be my Dad.

This past month, Dad was recovering from hip surgery replacement in a hospital in Colorado. Prior to Dad’s surgery, we were told he had the heart of a 60 year old. So, of course, it helped us, his daughters, to feel that he would do well.

I spoke to Dad via phone the very same day of his surgery. The surgery was in the morning. He’d already had lunch and was getting ready for dinner. I asked him what he was having and how he was feeling. He sounded great. Tomorrow he would start physical therapy. He was eager to start walking and wanted to get home. My Dad is very independent.

Unfortunately, early the next morning I got a call from my oldest sister that he was experiencing complications, which the doctors concluded had to do with his age. Dad is 90 years young. His blood pressure was too high and his sugar level was too low. Dad is a diabetic. (Why I don’t know,

Dad in San Diego enjoying a visit to the Maritime Museum.

because he is as skinny as a rail.)

Soon the doctors re-alized that Dad’s heart was not properly func-tioning. They proposed to insert a pacemaker. The cardiologist, how-ever, said he needed to know what was causing the heart to malfunction. After further tests, it was determined that Dad had two blocked arteries and surgery wasn’t possible.

On April 9, as I was getting ready to depart to the airport, I got the phone call that Dad had died.

Fortunately, Dad and I had a phone conver-sation the night before. This private phone conversation re-minds me of our very special relation-ship. We were extremely close.

I had the honor of writing and presenting Dad’s eulogy. I wrote it the night before his funeral. It was very late. I sat at the computer and asked Dad for assistance. Then I got a prompt from Dad to play his tapes.

Dad is a self-taught pianist. And, he is an awesome singer, great voice and no musical training. He recorded lots of his music. So, I had a glass of wine and was inspired by his talent and gift of life. Here’s what I wrote:

My sisters and I, Mary Lou, Clara, Kathy, want to thank everyone who has contributed to celebrate Dad’s life.

For those of us present today, he is father, father-in-law, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, grandfather, great grandfather, godfather, neighbor and friend.

Today all of you are present as a legacy to Dad. We all showed up to celebrate his life…and all of us here today know that Dad had many interests.

He was a wine aficionado, which meant he grew the crop (specifically grape and rhubarbs) and then he made the wine, which he truly enjoyed sharing. Many of you might remember Dad asking, “Come on in. Would you like a glass of wine?”

He was a farmer at heart: Dad and Mom had an annual routine. They would grow fruits and vegetables…and as my sisters and I know, that followed with canning, everything from plumbs, cherries, apricots, raspberries…and we can’t forget the red beets and sauerkraut. My sisters and I can recall the popping explosions in the basement…. There goes the sauerkraut.

And, Dad loved cooking and food, and enjoying it with the company of others. He and Mom had their weekly routine and enjoyed inviting guests to join us:

• Sunday fried chicken with mash potatoes

• Monday graut & gry (a German dish that Dad loved)

• Tuesday “muscetti” (that’s because Mom couldn’t say spaghetti)

• Wednesday liver• Thursday pot roast• Fish Friday• Saturday morning pancakes with

Six Classic Homes, Two Beautiful Neighborhoods

May 12, 2013Mother’s Day

For tickets, call (619) 435-7242, or log onto www.coronadohistory.org

2013 Coronado Historic Home Tour

overly greasy bacon & eggs • And Saturday night chili (which

some of us deplored) with hamburgers

Dad was a storyteller: He had an unbelievable memory…and had lots to share.

My sister Mary recently offered a “new” story that I hadn’t heard before. Apparently, Dad had an interest in “gofers”. Yes, gofers.

As a child, his family couldn’t afford toys. So, he found ways to entertain himself. He fed and trained gofers to pull a miniature tractor…I wish I could have seen this.

Dad was a prankster: As a youngster he would move outhouses and model Ts onto other people’s properties, just for the fun of it. Of course, that was usually done with his other brothers, who aren’t here to defend their actions.

As an adult, he and his daughters continued that legacy. We were known to teepee certain people’s homes, mostly family members. And though I site Dad as the initiator, Mom was right there with us, throwing the toilet paper.

And Dad loved music: He taught himself to play the harmonica and piano. And he loved to sing. Dad was an entertainer.

As you can appreciate, I could spend hours talking about Dad. Yet, his best role was husband to our mother, Annie Sack Herrman. She was the love of his life. The day she died a piece of Dad also died. All of us know he spent every day thinking of her. And, he looked forward to the day when he would be with Mom again.

That day has come.So today we honor and celebrate the

memories he created and his legacy, as well as his friends and family.

And Dad recently reminded me with a song that he sang, “Enjoy yourself, it’s later than you think.”



T e l l a N u r s e Y o u C a r eLocal News

tried to comfort him and keep the noise level down and a young teen clutching his bandaged arm in pain, to name just a few. In fact the room was overflowing with people in various stages of “emergency.” It was definitely a comment on our present medical system. During the intake I told the nurse how much pain my sister was in and how she needed to be seen right away. I guess everyone had to be seen right away because 30 minutes later we were still waiting.

Heeding the doctor’s advice, I told my sister to moan loudly and look like she is passing out. But my sister, always the stoic, could only manage a barely audible “ow.” It’s just not her style to moan. I, on the other hand, could have worked up a series of ear piercing screams if I was in that much pain. OK, I thought, time for some drama. I went up to the intake nurse and told her my sister is starting to pass out from pain and I don’t know what to do. “She almost fell out of her wheelchair, I caught her and kept her from passing out,” I told her, “what should I do to keep her from falling?” It worked. Within minutes we were taken into the emergency room and they found her a bed.

Next hurdle. How do they get her into

My sister is always saying how grateful she is that the Multiple Sclerosis that attacks her body does not give her bouts of pain. Last

week was an exception. Intense pain brought her to the doctor’s office where we were told it was probably best to go straight to the emergency room. I hesitated. Emergency room visits always took hours and that was just to get you out of the waiting room and inside the door. This doctor was not her regular physician, but an on-call doctor covering for her. “Here’s what you do,” she said, “As soon as you get there, tell them you can’t breathe, you’re in terrible pain and you feel like your heart is about to explode, moan out loud frequently and they will give you priority.” I liked this doctor right away. So off we went to another emergency room adventure, armed with directions from none other than the doctor herself.

Once in the waiting room we were surrounded by the usual suspects, including an elderly woman in her wheelchair accompanied by a son who fumbled with her oxygen, an autistic child yelling out as his father

By Ilene HubbsPatty Ducey-Brooks

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Contributing Writers

Concetta Anitico

Blake Beckcom

Rick Brooks

Melody Brown

Ian Campbell

Richard Cone

Cath DeStefano

Barry Hager

Ilene Hubbs

David Kamatoy

Alice Lowe

Aubree Lynn

George Mitrovich

David Rottenberg

Anne Sack

Sabine Starr

Barbara Strona

Charlotte Tenney

Laura Walcher

the bed from her wheelchair? She cannot transfer herself. At home her caregivers use a hoyer lift to get her in and out of bed, but surprisingly the hospital had to find a lift team of strong arms to do that job. That took awhile. Finally she’s in bed and the waiting game began. Lots of questions, lots of preliminary tests and at last a doctor arrives to talk to us. “Well”, he explains, “we have to rule things out, so here are the tests we need to do. In the meantime we have set you up with an IV of pain medication, and we feel it’s best to admit you and watch you through the night.”

When a room was available, they admitted her and off we went. Soon the room was filled with nurses, hooking this thing up, taking this test, adjusting the bed, the lights, whatever they had to do. I was impressed watching this team of health professionals just doing their job and doing it well. She was talked to the entire time and constantly reassured they had it all in control. My pain for her eased as I watched her pain medication take effect. I stayed on for a few hours and when I felt the time was right, I went home. She was in good hands. Hospital nurses are a hard working and often unappreciated group. I am grateful for them.

B e t w e e n t h e L i n e s : J a n e A u s t e n i n S a n D i e g oteeming pool and reported on their findings. A few of the more popular ones —“Bridget Jones’s Diary” and “The Jane Austen Book Club” — were made into films, capitalizing on the huge success of the “Pride and Prejudice” mini-series with Colin Firth as the dashing Darcy and the 2005 movie with Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennett as well as new movie versions of the other five Austen novels.

The first sequel of an Austen novel was “Old Friends and New Fancies” by Sybil Brinton, published in 1913, the 100 year anniversary of “Pride and Prejudice.” On the opposite end of the spectrum are “Jane Austen in Boca,” the story set in a Jewish retirement community in Florida and the cult hit, “Pride and Prejudice and Zombies.” One that generated animated discussion both pro and con was P.D. James’ “Death Comes to Pemberley,” which I read and wrote about here last year.

Cranked out over just a couple of years, “The Pemberley Chronicles” is a 10-volume series by Rebecca Ann Collins, a pseudonym for an author who chooses not to reveal her or his true identity. And among the more provocative titles are” Pride and Prejudice - The Wild and Wanton Edition,” Austen’s novel impregnated with racy sex scenes, and “Prawn and Prejudice,” a seaside saga.

One that piqued my interest and proved to be an entertaining read was

This year marks the 200th anniversary of “Pride and Prejudice,” and the calendar of the Jane Austen Society of North America (JASNA) lists events

occurring worldwide almost every day of the year—readings and discussions, teas and banquets, plays and movies, Regency costume parties and dances, countless “Jane Days.”

For San Diego Austen fans the news is that a local chapter of JASNA has been revived and now meets regularly at the House of England in Balboa Park. Started as a North County reading group 15 years ago, it was long dormant until reborn, appropriately, with a celebration of Austen’s 237th birthday last December.

Already a card-carrying JASNA member, I attended my first local meeting in February after chatting with Jeanne Talbot, the San Diego Regional Coordinator. A friend and I got acquainted with this lively and diverse group of “Janeites” over tea and cakes. This meeting’s discussion topic was sequels and spinoffs of “Pride and Prejudice.”

There are lots of them—Wikipedia’s “List of Literary Adaptations of Pride and Prejudice” includes 73 authors and 166 works—ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous, from worthy efforts and respectful homages to crazy spoofs and trashy bodice-rippers. I wouldn’t dare to venture which is which, knowing the truth in the saying that one person’s trash is another’s treasure.

Participants sampled widely from the

By Alice Lowe

Jane Austen Society members take high tea.

“Jane Austen Ruined My Life” by Beth Padillo. An American scholar goes to England in search of Austen’s missing letters, the ones her sister Cassandra supposedly burned after her death. She’s wooed by the “Formidables,” a secret society of devoted Janeites, who entice her with a few sample letters and send her on a sort of Austenish scavenger hunt to prove she’s worthy of their cache.

As you can see, JASNA members aren’t snobs or purists, looking down their noses at these efforts. Quite the contrary, Jane Austen readers are enthusiastic about anything that might bring people to appreciate Austen’s writing, its keen insights and biting wit, and what Jeanne Talbot describes as Austen’s “amazing ability to understand underlying motivations, individual and group psychology.” Jeanne expressed the common sentiment: “I hope that the knockoffs get people to read the books.”



7A Community Gathers to Support Animals in Need San Diego Humane Society’s 19th Annual Walk for Animals

3rd Annual Pints for Pups Guide Dogs for the Blind and New Leash on Life Event

More than 5,000 two-legged and 2,000 four-legged friends will take part in the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA’s 19th annual Walk for Animals at 7 a.m., Saturday, May 4 at NTC Park in Liberty Station, 2455 Cushing Road. San Diego’s patriotic pets will walk to celebrate their love for animals while raising the vital funds needed to ensure that every homeless animal can find a loving home. The morning festivities include a delicious pancake breakfast, a scenic two-mile walk with an optional half-mile walk, fun-filled doggie activities and contests, and array of vendor booths.

Participants can sign up online at www.sdhumane.org/walk to pre-register for this event or to make an online pledge. To receive a pledge form by mail, find out about exciting sponsorship opportunities, or for more information, please call 619-299-7012 x2293.

New Leash on Life, an organization that raises and trains guide dog puppies for future blind companions is holding its annual Pints for Pups fundraising event from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, June 29 at Mission Brewery, 1441 L Street in downtown San Diego.

$1 from every pint of beer purchased will be donated back to New Leash on Life. Guide Dogs for the Blind is a nonprofit organization that is run solely on private donations, so funds raised from this event will help members and volunteers of San Diego’s New Leash on Life cut the costs of raising the puppies, including veterinary care, food, medications, trainings, and more.

The third annual Pints for Pups is a dog-friendly event and will be fun for the whole family. Food trucks like The Dog Shack and Mangia!Mangia! will be on-site serving American and Italian fare. Local pet vendors will also have space at the event, including Doggie Beer Bones, makers of all-natural dog treats, Handmade Green, makers of eco-friendly dog leashes, and City Dog, a dog wash and groomer located downtown.

For information, call Ronda Coyle at (619) 807-3303 or via email at [email protected].

Animal News

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

drugs. Expires 05-31-2013

For more information on Gracie, call 619.299.7012

For more information on OC, call

760.757.4357

SPCA

Dogs of all ages, breeds and size will participate in the 19th Annual Walk for Animals.

Four legged and two-legged guests are invited to the annual Pints for Pups event.

Gracie is just about the sweetest doggie you will ever meet. She is a two-year old, Australian cattle dog/blue heeler mix. This adorable girl simply loves wagging that tail of hers and being around her people friends - it makes her happy. She’s also been learning some adorable new tricks that she’s hoping will impress you. Gracie would do best as the only dog in the household, with adults only please.

Her adoption fee includes her spay, current vaccinations, permanent microchip identification, a certificate for a free veterinary exam, a gift from Hill’s Science Diet, and a license if residing in Oceanside or Vista.

Gracie is currently located at the San Diego Humane Society’s 5500 Gaines Street in San Diego. For more information, call (619) 299-7012, or visit www.sdhumane.org.

OC is one divine feline who simply loves to snuggle with his people friends. He is a ten-year old, red tabby, domestic short hair mix. This super sweet and social cat cannot wait to find a new home where he will have a comfy lap waiting for him whenever he wants. He would prefer to have you all to himself; however, he is able to co-exist with other respectful cats.

OC’s adoption fee includes his neuter, current vaccinations, permanent microchip identification, a gift from Hill’s Science Diet, and a certificate for a free veterinary exam.

He is at the San Diego Humane Society’s North Campus, located at 572 Airport Road in Oceanside. For more information, call (760) 757-4357 or visit www.sdhumane.org.



Lifestyle

S i x T i ps t o Avo i d S k i p p i n g y o u r Wo r ko ut son your workout. When you build your time budget, make sure that this is in it.

• Buddy Up: When a friend is relying on you to show up for your workout each and every day, you are less likely to skip out on your fitness routine. Find a buddy to work out with to increase your accountability, add a social aspect to your routine and have someone to share the journey with to overall health and fitness. The extra push you get from someone in the trench with you, can and will reignite any dormant fitness flames.

• GO when you don’t want to: The mental boost you get from fighting off the bailout thoughts is extremely rewarding. Once you get started; and your heart rate comes up, and those endorphins start dancing about, suddenly you’re alive again. Some of my best workouts came on the back of not wanting, or feeling up to it. The physical and mental boost was enormous.

• Scale it Back: While you would love to have a full hour to work out every session, you know that isn’t always possible. Instead of bailing on your workout, when your schedule gets tight, opt for a scaled-down version of your regular routine. Focus on quality over quantity by reducing the number of exercises you do, but increase the

Around this time of the year, as opportunities arise to trade in daily workouts for work, and personal extracurricular activities, you may be tempted to skip your workout and derail your health and fitness goals.

To help keep you focused on your ultimate fitness goals and ensure your workout commitments stay intact, incorporate the following techniques for continued health and fitness throughout the year.

• Change it Up: If your workouts are getting dull, start off fresh by trying a new workout routine or activity. Do you current routine backwards, or cut it into thirds and move the thirds around in the workout. If you’re lacking motivation and looking for a social outlet, challenge a friend, colleague or family member to pair up so you don’t have to go it solo. Or, one-on-one personal training can keep you on track with a customized workout and nutrition plan designed to meet your specific health and fitness goals.

• Pen it In: Regularly scheduled workouts make exercising a priority in your busy life and turn a tentative penciled in obligation into an inked commitment. By making routine fitness appointments with yourself, you eliminate the urge to second guess yourself or make excuses for bailing

Blake & Gwen Beckcom.

By Blake Beckcom

For further information on Sabine Starr´s activities see

www.starrcoaching.comFollow her blog (since 2009) at

www.HealthwithTaste.blogspot.com

intensity of the exercises so you can still get in a good sweat even when you’re limited on time

• Reward Yourself: To stay motivated with your workout routine, it’s important to focus your outlook and approach on positive measures. Reward yourself with positive reinforcement each time you reach a health and fitness goal and celebrate your successes when you accomplish major fitness milestones. Seeking a reward and then receiving the reward is a good mental motivator.

Stay on track with your fitness routine by implementing the above fitness tips into your daily life. You will be glad you did when the weather allows for more and more revealing attire. Plus, your mental state of mind will be upbeat and positive as you will know that you conquered the temptations to miss workouts that create set backs. It is a great feeling of both visual and mental accomplishments.

If you need help with keeping your workout commitments, give us a call to re-commit yourself to living a healthy and fit lifestyle. Fitness Together Mission Hills offers personal training with qualified professionals by regular appointment in private suites.

Last month I kicked off the new column with one of Freud´s three parts of the personality structure: “ID - Ego - Super-Ego” (find at www.

HealthwithTaste.blogspot.com). This month I continue with the second one, the ID. The ID is all about primitive and animalistic drives, desires and pleasure. It contains our instinctive behavior and our aggression as well as our sex drive. It contains our wants and our impulses. Without it the human species might have gone instinct. It helps us to avoid pain and find pleasure, focused on the pleasure principle of instant gratification of any impulse. “I WANT IT NOW!” it would shout in its purest form. Without the involvement of the super-ego, the ID inspired behavior would not contain morals or ethics. It also does not know judgments like “good” and “evil.” These instincts and drives are like animals. Waiting patiently in line would be impossible. If hungry and at a restaurant, we would grab food off our neighbor’s table instead of waiting for our own to arrive. Children are still very governed by the ID, so as they grow up, we as adults, as society, socialize, teach

T h e A n i mal i n U sand raise them. They learn to delay gratification. For example, a two year old has a hard time sitting through a theater performance, while a ten year old can manage, even if it is not an attention grabbing piece.

In the original German language the ID function is called “Es,” which translates into “It.” That makes it easier to grasp the instinctive, non-personal, animalistic nature of it. According to Freud, our energy, our drive is mainly of sexual nature, in the form of instincts. He calls it libido. Thanks to the evolution of man and the ability to delay satisfaction, this primitive instinct can be expressed in other, more refined ways. It has given us culture, art and social life. It gives us zest and drive, which gets us out of bed in the morning.

Sometimes we don´t grow beyond that “instinctive” phase in parts and have problems like being overweight, drinking too much alcohol, being obsessed with computer games. We want it, when we want it, without delay. That gets us in trouble, our health suffers, as do our relationships, and job performance. Delay of gratification can be acquired very successfully with a conscious examination of these dynamics. For example, I

By Mrs. Freud

have had clients come to me for help to quit smoking, but are not ready to give up the behavior. They merely want to be free of the negative health effects. This wishful thinking and denial keeps us from reaching our goals, keeps us from taking responsibility for our own well-being and health. Once ready to take responsibility, the goal can be achieved. Teaching children how to delay gratification and reaping the bigger reward on the long run (like getting a solid education, being healthy) is one of the most important things we can do for them. It is even more valuable when paired with the measure of joy that can be found by living healthfully in the present.

This Freudian tripartite model of the mind makes us function ideally like a dance, where the three parts are in balance, alternatively

leading and being led by each other. It is also important that they stay dynamic, ever evolving and developing, as opposed to being rigid. A rigid personality - even if appearing to be balanced - can´t function and respond to the continuously changing environment and oncoming challenges.

Author Sabine Starr is a psychologist licensed in Vienna, Austria, currently living and working in Mission Hills. She has written numerous articles for professional psychology journals.

Exercise and nutritional programs are custom designed to fit your needs and abilities. Call (619) 794-0014 for more information or to schedule a free fitness diagnostic and private training session. See what others are saying about us on Yelp and San Diego City Search.



9

This column is prepared by Rick Brooks, CFA, CFP®. Rick is Vice President for Investment Management with Blankinship & Foster, LLC, a wealth advisory firm specializing in comprehensive financial planning and investment management. Rick can be reached at (858) 755-5166, or by email at [email protected]. Rick and his family live in Mission Hills

Last month I wrote about different types of investment earnings, including taxable and tax-exempt income and capital gains. This month I’ll discuss how investors can go about

creating portfolios that take advantage of these characteristics.

Given the different types of earnings from investments, it should be clear that each will have a different impact both on your total return and on your tax bill. Total return includes all income and capital appreciation, so for most investors, maximizing after-tax total return is paramount. After all, having $1,000 left over after taxes is better than having only $500 that you owe no taxes on, isn’t it? Following are some considerations we use in portfolio construction to try to maximize your after-tax return.

Taxable vs. Non-Taxable Income. The higher your income tax rate, the more attractive municipal bond income becomes. While municipal bond income is tax-exempt, their yields are so low that investors in lower tax brackets can generally do better by purchasing taxable bonds and paying taxes on the higher income.

Capital Gain Distributions. Some stock mutual funds are more efficient than others. There are many reasons for this, from the investment strategy the managers follow to whether or not tax considerations are even a part of the fund’s investment process. Turnover (how often trades are placed in the portfolio) is often used as a rough proxy for tax efficiency, but it’s not a very good one.

Investors need to be aware of the manager’s propensity for generating capital gain distributions, which create taxable income for investors, and whether they are typically long-term or short-term gains. For example, some funds using complex investment strategies involving options trading will often distribute a pre-determined mix of income and capital gains, which allows investors to better plan their purchases of these investments.

Generally speaking, mutual funds and exchange traded funds which track indexes tend have fewer changes in

Tax Efficient Investing , Part I I

Business News

By Rick Brooks

Moral OutrageContinued from page 1

HERBERT L. BLOCK, or HERBLOCK, as he was famously known, was for a very long time the political cartoonist for the Washington Post, and became the most celebrated practitioner of that art form in America; and ranked with David Low, the equally brilliant British political cartoonist, the world’s two most influential artists at depicting and pillorying the high and mighty.

I have every published book of Herblock’s political cartoons, and recently I brought one home from my collection at the office, for no purpose other than to relive the 50s though his great work. True, there are many wonderful works of history on the 50s, the last of the Truman years and Eisenhower’s eight, but for a quick tutorial of that decade it’s hard to beat Herblock.

For the first four years of the 50s I was a junior high and high school kid (Roosevelt, Hoover and Helix, but even then thought politics important. I was a volunteer for Adlai Stevenson, but later learned to love Ike (didn’t we all?). Was I aware of Herblock? Yes, because sports and political cartooning were a passion of mine. I followed his work on and off, but in

George Mitrovich is a San Diego civic leader and may be reached

at [email protected]

the underlying portfolio. This reduced trading often makes them more tax efficient than other actively managed funds and reduces the potential for taxable distributions.

Trading. While portfolio turnover isn’t a great proxy for tax efficiency, it can be an indicator because every trade creates an opportunity not only for higher costs, but for realization of gains and thus generation of taxable income. It also allows managers to sell investments at a loss in order to offset investments being sold for a gain. This is one strategy that fund managers may employ.

Asset Location Matters. Some investment accounts are taxable, such as most trust accounts, savings and checking accounts and ‘ordinary’ brokerage or mutual fund accounts. On the other hand, some account types are designed to encourage people to save for retirement, like 401(k), 403(b), IRA and Keogh accounts.

Retirement accounts are almost always considered tax-deferred; you usually get a tax break up front and the earnings on those savings won’t be taxed until you take the money out later. An exception is a Roth account, where you don’t get the initial tax break up front, but the earnings are never taxed, even once they are withdrawn later.

With a taxable account, earnings may be taxed every year, leaving less money in the account to grow over time. All else being equal, a tax-deferred account should outperform a taxable account over the long-run because of the annual drag created by paying taxes on the earnings.

For these reasons, investors often favor putting higher tax investments like bonds or hedge funds into tax deferred accounts. Other investments which may be taxed at lower rates (like stocks which can generate dividends and capital gains) would be purchased in taxable accounts. High income taxpayers will need to consider using tax-free municipal bonds for fixed income allocations in taxable accounts. Investors should consider both their needs for liquidity as well as the potential after-tax returns on investments as they decide where to purchase a given investment.

’68 when we moved to Washington and I became press secretary to two U.S. senators, I had the privilege of seeing his brilliance up close – six days a week.

You may not know Herblock or remember him, but, seriously, you should. And since I deem it my purpose, in part, as a Presidio Sentinel columnist to stretch other people’s knowledge, please take time to know his story and artistry. You can do that with great enjoyment by going to the Web and clicking on the Library of Congress’ exhibit that features Herblock:

h t t p : / / w w w. l o c . g o v / r r / p r i n t /swann/herblock/

I also have a one-volume collection of David Low’s great work, which includes his unforgettable caricatures of Churchill, De Gaulle, FDR, Stalin, and Hitler. I bought the book while working for the San Francisco Chronicle in the early 60s. It was a remainder copy and carried the notation, “First cheap edition.” I still have it and it still looks new.



Lifestyle

The Faces of Diversity Program celebrates individuals in the food service industry who come from diverse backgrounds. These individuals have excelled in their field, and despite adversities, have realized the American dream through hard work and dogged determination.

Miguel Valdez grew up in Barrio Logan, San Diego, an area once known for crime and rampant drug activity. Valdez had a traumatic childhood. He witnessed his father change from a loving parent to a hard-hearted man who constantly put his family in danger. His world fell apart when his father kicked out his mother and all the children, including Valdez, from their home.

Valdez’s mother kept the family afloat. They lived in a one-room apartment. She worked hard to feed and clothe them, and taught them that hard work can make all the difference in the world. Unfortunately, Valdez’s mother developed a dependency on prescription medication and Valdez became responsible for himself and his siblings’ wellbeing. At age 17 he was kicked out of his home.

It was a difficult time for Valdez. He struggled to avoid the vicious cycle of the drug-laden environment that had consumed both his parents. Consequentially, he too fell into in the trap, developing a drug habit and leading a dangerous lifestyle that eventually landed him in prison. His story could have ended there.

After his release from prison, Valdez became a dishwasher at a local restaurant. He worked tirelessly, grabbing any opportunity to learn about the industry and slowly but surely climbing his way up the ladder. He was fortunate to work for some of the most prominent restaurants in San Diego, and vowed that he would become an executive chef before the age of 35.

In 2010, Valdez was hired as a line cook at The Red Door Restaurant & Wine Bar

“We Don’t Just Sell Homes, We Sell Neighborhoods”

619-800-1103 | www.MissionHillsColdwellBanker.com

Maureen & Antoinette

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage1621 W. Lewis Street, San Diego, CA 92103

CA DRE License # 01217712 and # 01305747

maureen

antoinette

A continued recovery in housing and rising home prices should provide a boost to economic growth this year, offsetting the hampering effects of tax increases and government spending cuts, according to a monthly economic outlook released this month by economists at Fannie Mae.

While the European debt crisis remains a concern for the overall economy as do the tax increases and government spending cuts known as “sequestration”, home price gains are encouraging banks to make more mortgage loans by boosting their confidence that the properties they are lending against will hold their value. In the past several years, tightened mortgage credit has been one of the final barriers to a return to a normal housing market.

A shortage of homes for sale lead to home price appreciation at the national scale in 2012 and is continuing into 2013. A report from Zillow is predicting a substantial home price gain over the next several years that will likely help most mortgages regain positive equity, freeing many borrowers to put their homes on the market and potentially easing the inventory shortage. In addition, homeowners who were not underwater but postponing the sales of their homes until property values bounced back are regaining their confidence and putting their homes up for sale.

The result of this buoyancy can be observed on the local level, as the Metro area markets have seen an increase of new listings over the last several months. In the first 3 weeks of March we saw 67 new home listings across the Metro plain, and 18 homes came on the market in 92103 alone.

Just like the flower bulbs that were dormant in the fall and winter, our local home market seems to be awakening again!!

“Sprin g”ing into Action!

Chef Miguel Valdez has a passion for cooking and his family.

and sister restaurant, The Wellington Steak & Martini Lounge located in Mission Hills, San Diego. Within a short time, this ingenious, aspiring chef with innovative ideas and a bold approach to food was promoted to sous chef and then executive chef. Today, at the age of 30, Chef Valdez spends his days working with local and sustainable vendors and delighting patrons and critics alike with creations like the Honey Glazed Mary’s Duck Leg, a succulent oven roasted dish with apricot and cranberry-walnut stuffing; and Wild Venison served with a Red Wine glaze.

Trish Watlington, owner of the Red Door Restaurant and Wine Bar and its sister restaurant, The Wellington Steak and Martini Lounge, says she is very proud of Valdez, who rose from a lifestyle of anger, violence and drugs to lead an exemplary life. According to Wellington, “He found is life purpose and has excelled as a chef.”

Valdez is especially grateful to his wife, Nicole Gardella-Valdez, who he says has inspired him to be his best. And, he is excited to share his success with his young son, who he knows deserves a good life. Valdez has demonstrated by example that with the right attitude, ambition and a steel-like determination, anything is possible. Valdez is very deserving of this award, and he is beacon of hope for those who aspire to succeed, and a great ambassador for the San Diego restaurant community.

Do SomethingContinued from cover page.



11Lifestyle

yard full of plants that do not need to be fertilized, sprayed for bugs or diseases, and need to be watered no more than once a week with a quick spray of the hose?” she wonders. However, Dossett reminded us, “Raccoons love them.”

Many of Dossett’s plants live in pots buried in the ground. This way she can move them easily or remove the pot to divide the plants which she rarely does. She prefers to let her bromeliads propagate creating masses, thus satisfying her artistic sense of design. The key to a healthy plant is to find a spot it likes. Dossett moves it until she finds a spot where it thrives, and there it will remain.

Bromeliads like light, but light and temperature needs depend on the individual plant. Generally it is easy to tell what a bromeliad needs. Soft-leafed plants without spines prefer only indirect light and moderate temperatures, 55 to 85 degrees, and ideally, some humidity. Plants with fairly stiff leaves and spines which “bite,” as Dossett describes them, will be happy with lots of indirect light, and some plants will tolerate a bit of direct sun as long as it is not hot, mid-day sun.

All bromeliads need excellent drainage, and some, especially Tillandsias, need no soil at all. Those growing with no soil need to be anchored to something so they do not blow away; Dossett finds that bromeliads growing in soil grow bigger and more rapidly. The ideal soil for these plants is a combination

of medium-sized orchid bark and large-sized perlite in equal amounts mixed well. If you do not have time to plant them properly, Bromeliads can sit in empty pots for months.

Most bromeliads like their cups (the center of the plant) flushed with fresh water regularly. Even a plant that appears dead from lack of water will revive if soaked overnight in filtered water (not distilled or tap). Allowing the soil to become soggy will very likely cause the plant to rot,” she warns. Depending on the weather, Dossett gives her plants a brief shot from the hose. Like any plant, the hotter the weather, the more water they need. The leaves will curl inward if the plant needs water. Do not over-water your plants.

Bromeliads come in a variety beautiful shapes and colors. Luckily their leaves are beautiful. They look good all year long, but for Dossett their blooms are “just an added attraction.” Most bromeliads bloom once in a life-time. Luckily, the blooming means the mother plant will produce pups. She will die slowly, leaving her babies to continue her genetic line. To encourage blooming and great color, provide lots of light. When the time comes to separate mom from her pups, Dossett is adamant that before attempting this, you should attend a Bromeliad Society meeting to find out how to do this properly. Otherwise, she warns, “very likely you will kill them.”

The Latin name for bromeliads is Bromeliacae. There are three sub-

families: Bromclioeae, Pitcairnio-deae, and Tillandsioiddeae. Most Bromclioeae are epiphytes which grow on objects such as wires, other plants, and even on buildings. Their nutrients come from air and rain (or a hose). Some are terrestrial or plants that grow on land. One of these sub-families is the pineapple.

Most Pitcairniodeae grow on land or rocks and are often found in arid and mountainous areas. They have spiky leaves and resemble agaves. Even though they will grow in soil, they do need good drainage.

These are easy plants to grow. As soon as I left Dossett’s house, I ran home to one of my bromeliads (according to the plant’s label). Like many store-bought plants, this one had been planted in potting soil. In the short time it had been mine, the mother plant had bloomed, begun dying, and had produced two babies. I immediately took the entire family out of its pot, shook off the soil, waited a few days, shook off the rest of the soil, set it in an empty pot and gave the center a quick drink from the hose. Soon I shall plant it in the bark and perlite mixture. Meanwhile, it seems content.

This month’s meeting will be May 22 with Amy Huie speaking on “How do your native plants grow?” Meetings are from 6 to 8 p.m. at the church at 4070 Jackdaw. Members are free; guests pay $10.00. Don’t forget to buy your tickets for the 14th annual Mission Hills Garden Walk on Saturday, May 11 from 10 a.m. until 4 p. m.

Part I B romeliads Easy to grow and Easy on the Eye

In April, Joann Dossett, long-time member of the Mission Hills Floral Association, San Diego Horticultural Society, and a host of other botanical organizations, gave an

enthusiastic workshop on bromeliads at her beautiful home. She began by apologizing. It seems a troop of raccoons has fallen in love with her garden (They do have good taste!), and the night before thirty people were to arrive to see her lovely yard, these midnight marauders destroyed a sizable portion of its upper-most section. Despite the trauma to the garden, Dossett gave a very informative talk and demonstration.

Dossett concentrates on only a few requirements when choosing a plant: she must love its look, and it must have low water needs and be low maintenance. While it is nice to know the name of the plant, she says, “It is not a requirement.”

As she showed us one beautiful plant after another, Dossett pointed out how easy they are to grow. Our climate so near the coast is ideal for most bromeliads, and they can be part of the landscape. In other words, we needn’t keep them indoors in pots. Dossett maintains, “They may actually do much better outside in the ground rather than indoors in pots.” Bromeliads don’t need to be fed, they thrive with very little water, and bugs do not like them. “Why wouldn’t everyone want a

Bromeliads don’t need to be fed and they thrive with very little water.

By Barb Strona

[email protected] www.strona.com DRE # 00872337

(619) 203-1200

Barbara Strona CRS, GRI, SRES, RMS

For more information, please call:

Tax Time & Some Statistics Mortgage interest is, for many of us, a nice write-off when

tax time rolls around. For anyone contemplating trading up, this is a good time to sell AND buy.

From mid December until mid March in the 92103 zip code, there were 34 detached homes actively for sale, 27 in escrow, and 41 solds. During that period 25 condos were active, 43 in escrow, and 82 sold. The average time on the market for detached and attached homes before receiving accepted offers was 29 days; the average market time for closed sales of detached homes 76 days, for condos, 45.

The higher priced homes stay on the market longer than medium priced, and the lowest priced homes seem to sell immedi-ately.

Interest rates are low. Inventory is low, but the higher the price point, the longer the property takes to sell. Thus, if you are planning to sell your home and buy something larger, this is the time to do so. Priced right, your home should sell quickly, but there will still be more upscale homes available.

If you are thinking of making a move and gaining a bigger interest deduction, take advantage of a real estate agent who has your best interests at heart. Please call me for a consultation.

The market is warming up with the weather! Take advantage of the favorable climate.

To Assess Your Possible Real Estate Needs,

Call Me For a Free Consultation

[email protected] www.strona.com DRE # 00872337

(619) 203-1200

Barbara Strona CRS, GRI, SRES, RMS

For more information, please call:

Tax Time & Some Statistics Mortgage interest is, for many of us, a nice write-off when

tax time rolls around. For anyone contemplating trading up, this is a good time to sell AND buy.

From mid December until mid March in the 92103 zip code, there were 34 detached homes actively for sale, 27 in escrow, and 41 solds. During that period 25 condos were active, 43 in escrow, and 82 sold. The average time on the market for detached and attached homes before receiving accepted offers was 29 days; the average market time for closed sales of detached homes 76 days, for condos, 45.

The higher priced homes stay on the market longer than medium priced, and the lowest priced homes seem to sell immedi-ately.

Interest rates are low. Inventory is low, but the higher the price point, the longer the property takes to sell. Thus, if you are planning to sell your home and buy something larger, this is the time to do so. Priced right, your home should sell quickly, but there will still be more upscale homes available.

If you are thinking of making a move and gaining a bigger interest deduction, take advantage of a real estate agent who has your best interests at heart. Please call me for a consultation.



School News

National Comedy Theatre’s High School League Competion

Dana Mariners Captivate Packed Playhouse P e r f o r m a n c e D e d i c a t e d t o O u t g o i n g P r i n c i p a l

National Comedy Theatre’s (NCT) High School League is holding an improv comedy tournament for all high school participants on May 4 and 5, 2013. The winner of the competition will play against NCT’s main stage cast on Friday, May 11.

“The NCT High School League is a unique opportunity for high school students in San Diego to learn improv skills and theory, and to put it into practice with regular performances,” says Gary Kramer, founder and artistic director, National Comedy Theatre.

Beginning in September, each school is assigned a coach from the professional NCT team. Teams receive monthly training, and are free to schedule rehearsals every week after school. Every NCT High

Dana Middle School’s Musical Theatre class wowed an audience Friday evening, April 19, with a performance of Gilbert and Sullivan’s operetta, “Pirates of Penzance: the Slave of Duty.” It was a remarkable night of song, dance, and terrific comic acting led by award-winning teacher and director W. William “Bill” Cobb.

“Pirates of Penzance” opens with young Frederic on the cusp of liberation from his indentured apprenticeship on a pirate ship; the naïve, honorable Frederic will now be free to disembark from the only life he has known, in search of a less ethically-challenged vocation. When he arrives on shore he falls in love with Mabel, one of Major-General Stanley’s many fair maidens. Frederic’s former mates soon follow and each one, too, seeks the hand of one of Stanley’s daughters. Once Stanley enlists the local, cowardly constabulary to help repel the pirate suitors, the trajectory is set for reaching a hilarious dénouement in this farcical trial of loyalty and duty satirizing the British moral sensibilities of a bygone Victorian era.

Students from Parker and Monarch School participated in the 2012 competition. Photo by National Comedy Theatre.

Outgoing Principal Diane Ryan stands in front with teacher and director W. William “Bill” Cobb. In background, from left: Chloe Owen, Amanda Silva-Flores, Sofie Jimenez (to right of Bill Cobb), Taylor Kietzke, Andrew Garland, Abby Fiero, and Rana Willink.

Umbrella-wielding Colin Vassall makes his entrance as a most proper Major-General Stanley.

School League performance acts as a fund-raiser for the school’s own theatre department.

High schools involved in the 2013 NCT High School League include: Bishops, Point Loma, Francis Parker, La Jolla, Monarch, SCPA, Coronado and St. Augustine.

Tickets are $5 each for the High School League performances on May 4 and 5. Saturday’s performances are from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and on Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more information, contact the NCT Box Office at 619-295-4999, or visit www.nationalcomedy.com. Tickets are available at the door. National Comedy Theatre is located at 3717 India Street in Mission Hills.

Standout performances included Andrew Garland, alternately grave and gravely comic as Frederic, alongside Rana Willink as Mabel. Willink’s singing was rich and powerful; her performance augurs well for things to come from this sixth grader. Solos also included the beautiful voices of Sofie Roussos and Sofie Jimenez. Comic timing from Pirate King Grace Allen was impeccable and, in keeping with British tradition, comic delivery couldn’t have been drier from Colin Vassall as the Major-General.

Vocals from the large ensemble—the complete cast numbered fifty-five students—were synchronized and on pitch. Dance routines, choreographed by Tammy Smith with assistance from Dance Captains Casey Hall-Landers, Megan Rodi, and Janel Sytko, were lively, well-performed, and even incorporated acrobatics.

Dana’s fifth and sixth graders have been delighting audiences with musical productions ever since the campus at 1775 Chatsworth Boulevard reopened for sixth graders in 1998 and, in 2001, for fifth graders (and for Cobb) as well. Many of Cobb’s students graduate from Dana

By Scott Landers

to the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts.

Dana Middle’s configuration is unusual: it is the sole middle school within San Diego Unified School District consisting of fifth and sixth grades only. These kids are young, yet as outgoing Principal Diane Ryan put it during intermissvion, when asked how she felt watching the show on her last day at Dana’s helm, “It’s an amazing feeling to be inspired by eleven and twelve year olds—they are wonderful, and so is their director, Mr. Cobb.”

Printed on the inside covers of the playbills was the following statement from Cobb:

“This production is dedicated to Ms. Diane Ryan. In her nearly ten years as Dana’s principal, she has been a steadfast and enthusiastic supporter of the visual and performing arts. As she moves on to accept new ‘Challengers,’ she leaves a lasting imprint on Dana Middle School. She will be missed.”

Ryan moves immediately to her new position as principal of Challenger Middle School, while retired principal and seasoned administrator Mr. Tom Yount will serve as interim principal until Dana’s new skipper can be commissioned.



13Local News

The annual Coronado Historic Home Tour has become a much-looked-forward-to Mother’s Day tradition, often combined with brunch or an early dinner at one of Coronado’s fine restaurants. This year’s offerings on May 12, promise another very special afternoon. With architectural styles ranging from a Queen Anne built in the late 1800s to a Mid-Century modern, from a stunning Craftsman remodel to a two-story Spanish Revival mansion, all six homes in two different Coronado neighborhoods, are classic examples of others found all around the Enchanted Island. The 2013 Coronado Historic Home Tour will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., on Sunday, May 12.

All six homes retain their historic charm and original architectural “bones,” but most have been meticulously remodeled, expanded or restored in some fashion. The Queen Anne, built around the time the Hotel del Coronado was constructed, retains its original floors, hardware and woodworking details reminiscent of the Del, and many exotic tree specimens planted by the Hotel’s horticulturist. A 1912 home

2 0 1 3 C o r o n a d o H i s t o r i c H o m e T o u r M o t h e r ’ s D a y , 1 1 a . m . t o 4 p . m .

on the tour was just declared the winner of Coronado’s first-ever GEM (Going-the-Extra-Mile) Award for its remarkable renovation. A 1940s-era photo given to the present owners by a visitor who lived there as a child, inspired them to return the home to its near-original condition.

This home that is included on the tour has historic charm and original architectural “bones.”

While admiring the varied architectural and design features of these lovely homes, participants will learn more about the colorful history of Coronado. The purchase of annual Home Tour tickets helps CHA preserve more of that history to share with present and future generations.

Please note that children under 10 are not permitted, and there is limited wheelchair access. Call (619) 435-7242, stop by the Coronado Visitor Center (open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, 1100 Orange Avenue) or visit www.CoronadoHistory.org to purchase tickets.



Local News

This past month, at the intersection of Goldfinch and Fort Stockton and at the intersection of Hawk and Fort Stockton, General Services of the City of San Diego added thermal vinyl, ladder crosswalks for traffic calming purposes. According to Tom Curl, president of the Mission Hills Business Improvement District (MHBID), these intersections have become considerably busier with

Gator by the Bay, the biggest Zydeco and Cajun festival on the West Coast, returns to Spanish Landing Park on May 10, 11, and 12, 2013 for a twelfth year of bringing the rich and unique culture of Louisiana to San Diego. This spirited three-day music and food festival features an impressive variety of music and entertainment. For the first time this year, Latina bands have been added to the lineup, expanding the cultural and musical repertoire of the festival even further.

In fact, since the first festival in 2001, which focused on the Louisiana sound with Zydeco and Cajun bands, the festival’s lineup has grown over the years to include Blues, Jazz, Gypsy, Country, Honky-tonk, Swing, World Music, and now the Latina sounds of Salsa, Cumbia, Bachata, and more.

Headlining the festival for the first time will be the Grammy-nominated Zydeco band Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie, playing both Friday and Saturday. Born and raised in Eunice, Louisiana, Geno Delafose was born into a family that was deeply rooted in traditional Creole music. He is considered one of the pioneers of “Nouveau Zydeco,” deeply rooted in traditional Creole music, with

Creat ing a Safer Walking Community in Mission Hi l ls

Gator by the Bay Zydeco, Blues & Crawfish Festival Returns for 12th Year

Residents, business owners and guests are the first to use the new crosswalk. Left to right are Jose Perez, Asher Engle (stroller), Nancy Hubbert, Gerrie Trussell, Larry Hubbert, Valerie Wilkerson, Cathy Cipriano, Lauren Hodson, Liam Hodson,

Doug Yeagley, Michael McGrath, John Bertsch and Tom Curl.

Gator by the Bay is proud to feature the authentic tastes of Louisiana.

vehicle traffic and more neighbors are walking to and from the local businesses. The crosswalks are a proactive means to ensure that drivers make obvious stops at these intersections.

Curl says he is grateful to all the organizations who participated in this effort, including the MHBID, Mission Hills Town Council and the local merchants.

strong Cajun and modern Country & Western influences.

For a complete lineup with band bios and schedule, visit www.gatorbythebay.com.

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15Lifestyle

Anti-bullying expert and Hillcrest resident, Walter G. Meyer will be speaking about this the timely topic of bullying at Mission Hills Books and Collectibles, located at 4054 Goldfinch Street on Wednesday, May 15. Meyer’s anti-bullying presentation is free and open to the public. Signed copies of Meyer’s novel will be available at the event. For more information, call (619) 550-7749.

Meyer said he never set out to become a bullying expert, but his novel “Rounding Third” was published just before the bullying/suicide crisis started making the news. His book powerfully addresses those tragic issues and he started getting requests to speak and write about the topic. He has written about bullying for many newspapers and web sites including the San Diego Union-Tribune and he has spoken throughout the US, including at Penn State, Arizona State, SUNY-Jamestown, the Cleveland LGBT Center, and libraries in California and Pennsylvania; he coordinated an

The San Diego Women’s Chorus is excited to announce tickets are now on sale for its spring concert, “Still We Rise,” to be held at 7p.m., Saturday, May 4 and 5 p.m., Sunday, May 5 at the University Christian Church, 3900 Cleveland Avenue in Hillcrest. With special guests Black Storytellers of San Diego (BSSD), “Still We Rise” will offer a glimpse at women’s legacy through story and song. SDWC is thrilled to be working once again

Diane Powers first launched Old Town’s Cinco de Mayo festival in 1983, and today she continues her dedication to the exposition of Mexican cultures with lively celebrations at her Bazaar del Mundo Restaurants. Casa

“Rounding Third” Author to Speak on Bullying

San Diego Women’s Chorus to Perform with Special Guests Black Storytellers

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Flair in Old Town Festivities Include Folkloric Dancers, Mariachis, Food and Beverage Specials

“Rounding Third” is Walter Meyer’s third book and first novel.

The San Diego Women’s Chorus will perform its spring concert, “Still We Rise.”

Dancers perform for Cinco de Mayo in Old Town.

anti-bullying program with members of the San Diego School Board and City Council.

with BSSD, a dynamic group of women who promote storytelling and oral tradition through education and entertainment. (SDWC and BSSD shared the stage in 2005 for “Women Rising”).

Tickets are available for purchase at www.sdwc.org, through SDWC members, and at WorldBeat Cultural Center and United Records and Sound. For information, visit www.sdwc.org, email [email protected] or call 619-291-3366.

Guadalajaa Restaurant and Bazaar del Mundo Shops are located in Old Town at the intersection of Taylor Street and Juan Street., Saturday and Sunday, May 4 to 5 – with live entertainment from noon to 9:30 p.m.

San Diego Women’s ChorusPO Box 632794, San Diego, CA 92163 (619) 291-3366 www.sdwc.org



The West Coast Premiere of the Off-Broadway Hit, “The Divine Sister,” by Charles Busch and directed By Glenn Paris, runs from May 23 through June 30 at Diversionary Theatre.

Featuring: Maggie Carney, Yolanda Franklin, Lauren King, Dangerfield G. Moore, Darren Scott and Jacque Wilke. “The Divine Sister” is an inspired homage to every Hollywood film ever centered on the convent, this is the gleefully twisted tale of an indomitable Mother Superior trying to cope with a young postulant experiencing

Christine Estabrook (left) appears as Hope and Zoë Winters as Melody in the West Coast Premiere of Bekah Brunstetter’s “Be a Good Little Widow.”

Photo by Snaps Studio.

Directed by Hal Brooks, “Be a Good Little Widow” will run May 11 through June 9, 2013 in the Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre, part of the Globe’s Conrad Prebys Theatre Center.

Melody thought being a young wife was hard—until she became a widow. Luckily her mother-in-law Hope is an expert in the field. As she navigates the prickly terrain of pressed black dresses, well-meant advice and inappropriate outbursts, she stumbles toward understanding what it means to find someone through losing them. A bittersweet look at the messy parts of life, “Be a Good Little Widow” contemplates how grief, devotion and hope can persevere within us all.

Tickets can be pur-chased online at www.TheOldGlobe.org, by phone at (619) 23-GLOBE or by visiting the Box Office at 1363 Old Globe Way in Balboa Park.

Theatre

Cygnet Theatre will close its 10th Anniversary Season by presenting the San Diego premiere of Joe Calarco’s “Shakespeare’s R&J.” Part “Dead Poets Society,” part “Lord of the Flies,” Calarco’s work takes audiences to an all-male Catholic boarding school where four schoolboys secretly discover Shakespeare’s most famous love story. The repressive school bans the play in favor of Latin conjugations and the Ten Commandments, but the four students unearth a secret copy and steal into the night to recite the prohibited tale of adolescent passion. The story gradually draws the boys into a discovery of universal truth that parallels their own coming-of-age. A riveting drama within a drama, Shakespeare’s R&J transcends the boundaries between play and player. An international phenomenon, Calarco’s adaptation has been staged all over the world including Japan. The show will be

Old Globe Theatre Cygnet Theatre

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Diversionary Theatre

presented by Cygnet Theatre from May 22 through June 16, 2013.

The production is rooted in the cross-gender performances of the Elizabethan stage where men played all the roles. The cast will feature four graduates from the North Carolina School for the Arts. “I’m thrilled to continue the relationship with my alma mater,” said Artistic Director Sean Murray. “It enhances our already existing nurturing relationship with theater students and graduates from San Diego State.” Featured in the production are Dave Thomas Brown, Christian Daly, Tyler Lea and John Evans Reese. All except Christian Daly, who appeared in “Man of La Mancha,” are making their Cygnet Theatre debut.

Tickets can be purchased by phone at 619-337-1525, online at www.cygnettheatre.com or by visiting the Box Office at 4040 Twiggs St.

“visions,” a sensitive schoolboy in need of mentoring, a mysterious nun visiting from Berlin, and a former suitor intent on luring her away from her vows. No nun, whether singing or flying, is spared and no Mary left un-hailed in this loving parody that dares to take a look beneath the habit.

Diversionary Theatre is located at 4545 Park Boulevard in San Diego. For tickets and information, visit www.diversionary.org or call (619) 220.0097.

Y A R D S A L ESat., May 4, 2013

Mission Hills Community Garage Sale is coming!

The production is rooted in the cross-gender performances of the Elizabethan stage where men played all the roles.



17Entertainment News

Is it the chicken or the egg? Is it the singer or the title? Is it audience appeal or the need to expand horizons? And frequently, is it affordable?

Putting together an opera season of four operas can be challenging, and

San Diego Opera’s 2014 Forty-Ninth International Season is no exception. Were we staging six or seven operas in the season it would be easier because a title which is less-well-known can be accommodated in the greater number. But with four operas, anything unknown, such as this year’s “Murder in the Cathedral” or last season’s “Moby-Dick” represents a full quarter of the program.

This can be disconcerting for some opera goers who are fearful of what they do not know, and may result in their not subscribing at all, or failing to take the unknown opera. Either action can be costly at the box office,

and reduced ticket revenue hurts the bottom line badly.

So it becomes a title-juggle compounded next by artist availability. I constantly hear singers I want San Diego audiences to enjoy, so even when the title is known, it still depends on when the singers wanted can be here. Sometimes their schedules simply cannot mesh sufficiently. Our productions are not “touring shows” as are the Broadway works heard here. Ours are rehearsed and performed over a four-week period, and if a singer, or conductor, cannot be here for the full period he cannot be engaged. Consequently we engage artists as many as four years in advance so that we have a chance to keep them away from the eager claws of the Metropolitan Opera, La Scala, Covent Garden and Paris Opera, for example.

Planning that far ahead can bring great rewards such as our having four of the world’s greatest singers for Verdi’s extraordinary “Requiem” in 2014. Piotr Beczala, Krassimira Stoyanova, Stephanie Blythe and Ferruccio Furlanetto are in demand

Planning a Season of Operaby Ian Campbell

Ian Campbell, Mission Hills

resident, shares his love for opera.

everywhere, and colleagues in Europe are asking me how we got them all at the same time. Simple: we asked before they did!

The order of the operas is dictated by artist availability naturally. I may have preferred to have “A Masked Ball” open the season, but when Beczala, Stoyanova, Blythe and conductor Massimo Zanetti are all available in the third position, and for both the opera and “Requiem,” that’s clearly where it is placed.

Another part of the juggling act is the expense of the operas chosen. Four operas with large casts, a long list of soloists, and all new productions built here is out of the question. The budget simply would not stand it. So we look at what productions we own and are repeatable, and then what other sets and costumes we can rent from our colleague companies and cast strongly.

In 2014 we own both “Pagliacci” and “Don Quixote,” each with a small number of principal roles. This lower expense allows us to manage the far greater expense of renting and casting “A Masked Ball” and “The Elixir of Love.”

Expanding horizons is part of our mission, but now and then we need to be less challenging, and 2014 is such a season. In 2015 we will stage ‘Nixon in China,’ and in 2016 a world-premiere opera by Jake Heggie, who composed “Moby-Dick,” each of these operas falling into the more risky category where local audiences are concerned. So 2014 is meant to be easier for many.

Finally, box office revenue represents 40 percent of expenses requiring 60 percent of our income to be donated, which is the national average for opera companies. So we need to be confident that we can sell tickets. The mix of operas in 2014 should ensure we reach our targets since there is something for everyone. And the high quality casts, known to many of our donors, help keep them involved, and retain their valued contributions. They want quality maintained, and will help pay for it.

So keeping all these balls in the air is part of deciding on an opera season, and it actually is fun working it out.

I’ll see you at the opera.

Gatsby, and across the bay from his cousin, Daisy (Carey Mulligan, “An Education”), and her philandering, blue-blooded husband, Tom Buchanan (Joel Edgerton). As Nick is drawn into the captivating world of the super-rich, their illusions, loves and deceits, he pens a tale of impossible love, incorruptible dreams and high-octane tragedy, and holds a mirror to our own modern times and struggles.

“The Great Gatsby” is 142 minutes long, Rated PG-13, and opens May 10, 2013 at Landmark’s La Jolla Village Cinemas. For information and times, call (619) 819-0236, or visit www.landmarkTheatres.com. Film times and dates are subject to change.

From director/co-writer Baz Luhrmann (“Moulin Rouge!,” “Romeo + Juliet”) comes his uniquely imaginative big screen adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, “The Great Gatsby.” The filmmaker’s own distinctive visual interpretation of the classic story brings the period to life in a way that has never been seen before, starring Leonardo DiCaprio in the title role.

“The Great Gatsby” follows would-be writer Nick Carraway (Tobey Maguire, “Spider-Man”) as he leaves the Midwest and comes to New York City in the spring of 1922, an era of loosening morals, glittering jazz and bootleg kings. Chasing his own American dream, Nick lands next door to a mysterious, party-giving millionaire, Jay

L A N D M A R K T H E A T R E

Carey Mulligan (Daisy) and Leonardo DiCaprio (Jay Gatsby) star in “The Great Gatsby.”

C a l i f o r n i a B a l l e t C o m p a n y P r e s e n t s S w a n L a k e

California Ballet Company will perform Thor Sutowski’s full-length “Swan Lake” for two performances only, 7:30 p.m., Saturday May 18 and 2:30 p.m., Sunday May 19 at the San Diego Civic Theatre. The production will be the finale of the company’s 45th Anniversary Gala celebration. The Saturday evening show will be preceded by a black-tie Gala Dinner at the Westgate hotel. A festive reception will follow that same performance at the Westgate Hotel with live music, dancing, and a chance to meet the guest artists and California Ballet’s company of professional dancers.

Principal Dancers Maia Makhateli and Artur Shesterikov of the Dutch National Ballet will join the California Ballet dancers on the Civic Theatre stage in the roles of Odette/Odile and her Prince Siegfried. Cuban trained Raydel Caceres, a frequent guest artist with California Ballet, will join the cast in the role of Benno, Prince Siegfried’s closest friend. The balance of the ballet’s featured roles will be performed by CBC Principals Chie Kudo, Vitaliy Nechay, Carlo Di Dio, and Bernadette Torres, as well as

Principal Dancer Maia Makhateli of the Dutch National Ballet will perform as Odette/ Odile.

Soloists Oscar Burciaga, Rebecca Correia, and Hugo Carreon.

“Swan Lake” is often considered the quintessential ballet. Presented in four acts, the ballet is the tragic tale of Odette, the beautiful Swan Queen who is imprisoned under the spell of the evil sorcerer Von Rothbart. “Swan Lake” is the ultimate power struggle between good and evil, paired with the promise of everlasting love.

For tickets and information call 858-560-6741 or go online to www.californiaballet.org.



Lifestyle

Literacy Takes a VillageIf you can read this, consider yourself

lucky.Today, one in five adults in our

county can’t, limiting their ability to perform daily, essential tasks that the rest of us take completely for granted.

Some illiterate adults can’t fill out a job application, follow medical instructions, pass a driver’s license test, write a note to their child’s

teacher or read a bedtime story. Their job options – and earning power – are limited. Moreover, illiterates spend their lives “hiding out,” faking it, in the dark, under-achieving in every aspect of their lives. Yet, the change they undergo when finally learning to read is remarkable and inspiring.

Illiteracy is the situation that challenges the S.D. Council on Literacy (SDCOL) in its Eat. Drink. Read., A Culinary Event for Literacy” fund-raiser, Wed., May 22, and why I’m chairing it. The event presents the creativity of our noted chefs, with dishes inspired by their favorite books, to raise awareness and funds to support 26 free programs.

I share my passion for helping to end illiteracy with committee members, participants, learners and tutors. Get to know a few:

Mark Albertazzi, artist/graphic/marketing man extraordinaire. Albertazzi doesn’t hold back helping SDCOL, clients and non-profits in his imaginative productions – most notably now: his cheery invitations and designs for “Eat. Drink.Read.”

Cody Morris: He’s tall, good-lookin’, tatted; he’s quiet – and deadly. At the SDCOL, he oversees all web and social media. He’s got the skinny on legalities and facilities, and he’s up for whatever’s needed – even if outside his purview. Oh, yes: we like a guy who never fights, never falters, never says “no!”

Executive Chef Miguel Valdez: The Wellington Steak and Martini Lounge, chose “The Mayan Prophecy,” a detective story by 6th grader Miguel Angel

Aldrete, to inspire his “Eat.Drink.Read.” dish (a short rib tamale, corn, raisins, Queretaro mole - pasilla and ancho peppers, bitter chocolate, cumin, native coyote mint). The proceeds from the young author’s book’s sales support “Kids 4 Our World,” an environmental awareness organization. “Perfect,” says the chef, “as it dovetails perfectly with our mission to buy products and grow organic produce that will help … sustain the environment and the health of our guests.”

Josh Kopelman & Jacqueline Silverman: in Josh’s ten years of publishing “DiningOut San Diego,” who could better corral our restaurants and chefs? And who better than Jacqueline Silverman, his team-mate for the event, to be the “go-to” person for nailing the details? This development consultant for NFP’s knows coordination, and has the insight and strategies that ensures a powerful party.

Former learner, present tutor: Gilbert Sandoval is a member of the National City (N.C.) Host Lion Club, where he performs community service. He also coaches and manages teams for the N. C.’s Little League and Girls’ Softball League. Sandoval loves bass fishing, golf and camping. For the past seven years, he’s been a team captain for Relay for Life, National City.

For too much of his life, he was illiterate; but no more.

He tells it:“In the fourth grade we moved to Fullerton, where

my cousin lived - he was so happy that I was going to be in the same school. He asked the teacher if I could read to the class like he did - he didn’t know that I couldn’t read! I became ‘the big dummy!’

Later, in the family concrete company, I learned all aspects of the business, except the paperwork. And, I eventually worked for 17 years as a cement mason for the San Diego Unified School District. Whenever they opened a new construction department, I recognized a possible opportunity for advancement; I had all the skills, except reading and writing.

By Laura Walcher

this is not a problem; long term, this disrupts the blood sugar levels and results in diabetes, as well as leaving us vulnerable to infection and allergic reactions and allows aberrant cancer cells to flourish instead of being safely dismantled by white blood cells. When we eat meals that are predominantly cooked and processed foods, all of the naturally occurring enzymes are “denatured” by heat. Think of an egg white turning solid and you can get some idea of what heating does to the protein of enzymes. In their raw form, enzymes provide exactly the catalyst needed to digest the food that contains them. That same food, when cooked or pasteurized, will not spoil due to a lack of enzymes; it also won’t digest without some help from the pancreas. When you hear that you need to eat “more fresh fruits and vegetables,” this means to consume the food in raw form. If you can alter your daily diet to consist of 50-80 percent raw foods, you relieve the demand on the pancreas and allow it to do its job.

Fifty years ago, cancer affected one in thirty people. Today the incidence of cancer is more like one in three. The difference has been in lifestyle. Our food supply is one of the major changes in our lifestyle. With this one simple recommendation for eating habits, we can do a lot to prevent cancer and support healing from its symptoms. Obviously, raw food is NOT the

I work with peer health educators on a regular basis. Since I have developed a deep respect for their ability to communicate both concisely and effectively about health issues, I was delighted to find a book about cancer that was written by “the common man” and not a medical expert. The brief booklet, not even a hundred pages, called “Cancer’s

Best Medicine” was written by Mauris Emeka, a professional AMTRAK attendant. His knowledge of cancer was hard-earned while researching and looking for practical application of therapies to address his wife’s illness. He offers his insights and resources as a way to guide others in finding options. I found his explanation of cancer to be the most compelling that I have ever read.

Mauris Emeka begins his booklet by identifying cancer, any kind of cancer, as a symptom of a deeper, long term dysfunction of a body system. The dysfunction that he finds is most common is that of the pancreas. The pancreas is a complex organ that is part of the endocrine system; it secretes the hormone insulin in response to rising levels of blood sugar, it stimulates white blood cell immune function to address toxins and foreign proteins coming into our bodies, and it supports digestion by providing digestive enzymes to our stomach to break down food substances.

It is this last function that requires our attention, since excessive need for digestive enzymes will naturally reduce the ability of the pancreas to produce insulin and stimulate the immune system. Short term,

“miracle cure” for cancer. It is, however, a readily understandable and achievable therapy that we can do at home to improve our risk factors.

The booklet can be previewed and ordered at Mauris Emeka’s website at www.cancernomore.com, or by calling Apollo Publishing at 818-422-3912. It comes in traditional paper format or can be downloaded directly to your computer. I liked it so much that I ordered a dozen copies to share with friends. It is a way that I can easily provide them with a quick, non-technical guide to preventing and addressing cancer. After all, this will be a big concern for a third of the people that I know. And it will be an issue for a third of the people that they know. We can support each other in making small changes in lifestyle that add up to big advantages in our health. Go raw! Join me in a vegie juice toast to Mauris.

The Power of Peer EducationBy Charlotte Tenney, MA Integrative Medicine

“Cancer’s Best Medicine” offers a layman’s perspective of the cause and means to prevent cancer.

Here’s how I got by: my wife, Frances, was my ‘secretary.’ She read and wrote for me.

Finally, my son told me about the Chula Vista Literacy Team Center, where you could learn to read. I was skeptical, scared - I tested there at a third grade level. Now I call it the ‘house of miracles.’

I learned to read! I’ve tutored there since 2003. I give my learners the highest respect and kindness. I tell them, most of all, you need patience - if I can do it, anyone can.”

Chef Scott Mickelson, at The Lions Share, chose, “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs,” by Judi Barrett, and conjured up “Wild Boar meatballs with spring peas, arugula blossoms, white Miso & a cherry reduction,” and here’s why: “This story takes place in the tiny town of ‘Chewandswallow,’ where anything is possible when it comes to food, even meatballs raining from the sky!”

When you show up at this celebration of literacy, you’ll be intrigued and charmed by the chefs’ books and cuisine, you’ll salute the sponsors, toast the committee, explore the silent auction gifts, and take a chance to win “35 bottles of wine,” for a $35 raffle ticket, and more. Kudos here, too, to Jose Cruz, SDCOL’s leader, before whom the buck bows, before it comes to a stop.

Purchase your “Eat.Drink.Read.” tickets at www.eatdrinkread.com.

Graphic artistry of Mark Albertazzi



19Lifestyle

Human TuneUp Column by Cath

A Pause for AweWe, you and I, are results of long

lines of sperm meeting egg and on and on down through the generations first uniting and then cell by cell dividing and multiplying until we miraculously became a self entering through our mother’s body onto our earth and walking around living a Life.

This calls for awe.While I was sleeping, the earth

rotated under its own steam and brought sunrise to Hawaii and all points until it traveled far enough to be seeming to rise again…..back to nudging us awake with its lightness.

Awe. Wonder. Reverence.When Life gets a touch too real, (and

oh yes can’t it now), there’s nothing quite like a pause to connect again with the wondrous among us.

As in:

▪ Upright, one foot in front of the other.

▪ Heart beating, seemingly without needing my assistance. For years, beat by beat, in rhythm.

▪ A toddler speaking in sentences.

▪ First breaths and last breaths.

▪ Feeling the love of one for another, me for thee, we for us.

There’s something about an appreciation of the wondrous that restores me, soothes my soul, ready to be in life again.

Cath DeStefano CEO Speaker Author Artist [email protected] www.HumanTuneUp.com

By Cath DeStefano As Followers of Christ Our Mission is to Embrace

Worship Openness

and Wholeness

University Christian

ChurchDisc ip les o f Chr is t

3900 Cleveland Avenue San Diego, CA 92103

Phone: (619) 295-4146

JULY 2012 Display Ad for Presidio SentinalPlease send Invoice to University Christian Church 3900 Cleveland Avenue San Diego, CA 92103 Pnone: 619-295-44146

Regular Sunday Schedule

8:55 a.m. Contemporary Worship 10:00 a.m. Church School Classes 11:00 a.m. Traditional Worship

For information, call or visit our web site. www.univchristianchurch.com

Visit us on Facebook

An Open and Affirming Congregation

As Followers of Christ Our Mission is to Embrace

Worship Openness

and Wholeness




Phone: (619) 295-4146








Worship Openness

and Wholeness




Phone: (619) 295-4146








Worship Openness

and Wholeness




Phone: (619) 295-4146







Fashion Week San Diego is Back and Busting at the SeamsBy Aubree Lynn Writer/Producer/Stylistwww.stylishlyaubreelynn.com

March madness fell on the fashion scene in San Diego when the designer lineup was released, announcing the incredible opportunity of four returning designers who participated in Fashion Week San Diego™ 2012. They include a talented and determined crew coming back to the runways. So, men tip your hats and ladies raise a stiletto to A’Doreus, Dos Caras Swimwear, nOia by Evelyne and SYC Collection.

These designers are currently in the process of creating their spring/summer 2014 collections that will debut in October on the Fashion Week San Diego 2013 runway. Throughout the year the team of Fashion Week San Diego will work with the designers to aid them in developing their collections and businesses in order to take the momentum of the event to the next level.

If you thought last year was a Fashion Event to be remembered, be prepared for the energy and excitement of this year’s Fashion Week San Diego, with five days

of activities and three evenings of runway shows. You will enjoy an eye-full of style and fashion fun that will take over the Broadway Pier downtown and overflow into the streets. Prepare to be dazzled by 26 designers of different looks, styles and inspirations. Fashion Week San Diego™ 2013 kicks off with the Art and Beauty behind Fashion with beauty industry experts speaking and demonstrating on hair, makeup and nails. The Trunk Show marks the end of the week of events where designers will sell and write orders for their collections just seen on the runway.

Fashion Week San Diego is a collaborative entertainment fashion event to celebrate emerging designers by showcasing and highlighting the pulse of these entrepreneurs and what they are

creating. The team is pleased to give these emerging fashion designers a platform to launch their careers. Pre-sale tickets are now currently on sale until May 1st when prices will then increase or sell out.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit outwww.fashionweeksd.com and mobile download the app for free.

Director and Founder Allison Andrews recently announced the plans and participants for Fashion Week San Diego™ 2013.



length project. This year, one of the featured bands is Boondock Brothers; Michael Schenk, Alberto Sandoval and Shawn Peters. Boondock Brothers represents the raw, uncut side of rock and roll and delivers an energetic, exciting show each time. They have been referred to by many as “the future of Rock n’ Roll.”

Lead guitarist Schenk says, “We’re very excited to play this year’s Coy-ote Festival. If you haven’t heard us before, expect to hear a powerhouse Rock n’ Roll trio simultaneously pay-ing tribute to artists such as Jimi Hen-drix, Led Zeppelin, Alice in Chains, David Bowie, Little Richard, The Doors and Nirvana to name a few. Our devotion to creating something new in the world of music is our most im-portant calling. As Robert Plant once said, ‘The spirit of Rock n’ Roll lies in live performance,’ and we strongly abide by that principle.” You can also catch Boondock Brothers at Queen Bee’s, 3925 Ohio Street, San Diego, at 6 p.m., Friday, May 10, and at the Golden Acorn Casino at 7 p.m., Satur-

On February 24, 2009, Appleseed Recordings released Tom Rush’s first full-length studio album in over thirty years, “What I Know.” This album is the newest chapter in his legendary career and features original material and Rush’s interpretations of songs such as “Drift Away.” Included on Tom’s new album is a song by San Diego’s very own Jack Tempchin.

Today, after 50 years, he’s still doing what audiences love him for: writing and playing -- passionately, tenderly -- knitting together the musical traditions and talents of our times.

This will be Rush’s fourth AMSD appearance, and his first three shows were excellent. Don’t miss him. For tickets, see www.AMSDConcerts.com

day, May 25. For sound samples of their driv-ing music, see http://boondockbrothers.com/fr_boondockbros.cfm.

Also headlining at Coyote Festival is Curt Owen, a singer/songwriter born and raised in La Mesa. His musical influences include Jason Mraz, Jack Johnson, John Mayer and Amos Lee. His Facebook page describes his music as “Crowd-pleasing, acoustic music with a fresh organic feel.”

Although he’s been distracted by several hobbies and interests throughout the years, Owen always falls back on his love of music. At the early age of 19, he has been playing for more than four years in local clubs in and around the San Diego area, such as Downtown Café in El Cajon, 710 Beach Club in Pacific Beach and the House of Blues in the Gaslamp. As a minor, Owen is unable to enter the bars and clubs and has to wait outside until called to perform. In addition, many of his friends in the same age group are unable to listen and support him at the clubs.

One cold blustery evening in Pacific Beach, Owen was alone outside a club waiting to perform. “All of the sudden the temperature dropped, the wind kicked up and it started raining. I started shivering and began to bundle up. Then it started to hail, and then the water level started to rise. I felt like I was on the Titanic,” Owen relates. He had no choice but to cower under a very small awning that barely shielded him from the elements until he was allowed to

Cuyamaca College presents the 5th Annual Coyote Music Festival with a line-up of local indie bands. This free event will be held on Saturday, May 4, from noon to 5 p.m. Bring a friend, pack a picnic

and settle in on the Grand Lawn for an afternoon filled with live music, fun, food and prizes. The Coyote Music Festival is an outdoor festival featuring nine local bands and solo artists. It is planned, promoted, and produced by the students in the Music Industry Seminar class at Cuyamaca College.

Music Industry Studies is a transfer degree program at Cuyamaca College focused on the practical aspects of developing careers in the music industry. The program combines classes in music theory, literature, and performance with studies in music technology and business.

One of the classes, the Music Industry Seminar, produces the Coyote Music Festival every spring as a semester-

The iconic Tom Rush returns to AMSDConcerts, 4650 Mansfield, Avenue, at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, May 16. Tickets are $35 for rows 8 and back and $62 for the first 8 rows and dinner package at De Mille’s. (The food is outstanding!) Tom Rush’s impact on the American music scene has been profound. He helped shape the folk revival in the ‘60s and the renaissance of the ‘80s and ‘90s, his music having left its stamp on generations of artists. No less than James Taylor, Emmylou Harris, Tom Petty and Garth Brooks have cited Rush as major influences. His early recordings introduced the world to the work of Joni Mitchell, Jackson Browne and James Taylor. Subsequently, his Club 47 concerts brought attention to emerging artists such as Nanci Griffith and Shawn Colvin.

Coyote Music Festival Features Boondock Brothers, Curt Owen

Tom Rush at AMSDConcerts

Music Scene

By Richard Cone

perform. Nonetheless, Owen remains undeterred and maintains a positive uplifting attitude about his music. His enthusiasm is infectious. After all, didn’t Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder start the same way? Someday Curt hopes to play larger venues like the Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre (now the Sleep Train Amphitheatre) and the Sports Arena. Who knows, maybe someday he’ll open for Jason Mraz. To hear Curt Owen’s songs, see http://www.myspace.com/curtowen.

The lineup at Coyote Festival also includes Spero, Sydney Blake, Raelee Nikole, Kilo Hues, Human Crossing, Mittens and Take One. Cuyamaca College is located at 900 Rancho San Diego Parkway El Cajon, California. Phone 619-660-4000. For free tickets, see www.coyotemusicfest.com.

Photo courtesy of the Boondock Brothers.

Photo courtesy of Curt Owen

Photo courtesy of Tom Rush.



21

Many visitors to Old Town enter the park by getting off Highway 5 at Old Town Avenue then following the curving road to the entrance. There is another entrance, though, on the north side of the park, off Taylor Street’s exit to Highway 8. That entrance, onto Juan Street, goes past Casa Guadalajara and, next to it, La Piñata Mexican Restaurant. La Piñata has the distinction of being Old Town’s oldest restaurant.

The park’s roots are deep in history. The area is considered the “birthplace” of California. Father Junipero Serra came here in 1769 to establish the very first mission in a chain of 21 missions that were planned for California. Father Serra’s mission and Presidio were built on a hillside overlooking what is currently known as Old Town San Diego. Some 60 years later, a small Mexican community of adobe buildings was established that, by 1835, grew and achieved recognition as the township El Pueblo de San Diego.

But only one location can boast that is has served perhaps eight generations of diners. La Piñata began serving food in the 1920’s. The name of the location was changed to its current identity in 1968. The mere fact that the restaurant has survived that long speaks volumes about the ambiance and quality of cuisine.

If the word “piñata” is not known, it refers to a gaily decorated crock or papier-mâché figure, usually a doll or small animal, filled with toys, candy, etc., and suspended from above. On birthdays and holidays, one of the children at the party is blindfolded and spun around several times. Then he is given a stick with which to hit the piñata. After several tries, the next child gets a chance. Then, when the “piñata” is finally broken and all the goodies fall to the ground, all the children rush in to grab what they can. Lots of fun!

Sure enough, many piñatas decorate the ceiling of the front and interior of the restaurant, adding color and gaiety to the interior. But the greatest fun is on the patio, with beautiful flowers and shrubs that add intensity and charm to the setting.

There are usually a couple of guitarists playing, especially during weekends. The food is traditional Mexican and tastes like it was made from old family recipes. Starting a meal with some drinks and appetizers is a good way to get into the spirit. There is a good selection of Mexican and American beers and a reasonable choice of tequila. Margaritas come in

La Piñata—Old Town’s Oldest RestaurantMost of the existing historical

structures were built in the 1800’s, so wandering around the park really does offer a deep sense of touching history. For example, Casa de Estudillo was built in 1825 as the home of a Spanish aristocrat and then became a sanctuary for women and children during the American occupation in 1846. The Whaley House is one of the most haunted houses in the United States. The alleged hauntings of the Whaley House have been reported on numerous other television programs and been written up in countless publications and books since the house first opened as a museum in 1960.

There is a graveyard in Old Town and enjoyable “haunted house and ghost” tours that are popular. Old Town Trolley Tours, the enjoyable hop on- hop off way of seeing the sights of San Diego, starts here. There are over 20 restaurants and many specialty and souvenir shops. And there are over 15 restaurants.

three sizes --- good, wow and “you can swim in it.” The peach margarita was especially good.

The server quickly will bring by a box of tortilla chips, which are “free” and one of the best I’ve enjoyed. But be sure to ask for the quesadilla, also free – large, flat and topped with cheese.

The dishes offered on the menu are typical Mexican fare. Among these, carne asada dinner has specially selected cuts of top sirloin served with guacamole and tender strips of roasted green chile. Chimichanga is a flour tortilla filled with shredded beef or chicken deep-fried and garnished with guacamole and sour cream. Most entrees are served with rice and beans.

My favorite dish is the quesadilla piñata. It is a large portion, a huge tortilla stuffed with tasty shredded chicken and cheese and topped with sour cream and guacamole.

Desserts include the traditional flan, Mexican custard, and bunuelos, a crispy flour tortilla covered with honey and cinnamon --- a sweet and tasty way to end the meal.

Prices are moderate and weekday specials and children’s menu can reduce them further for family dining. But the sense of dining with history is priceless. And, here’s a big plus. La Piñata has parking, although the lot is not very large. Best bet is to get there early.

La Piñata Mexican Restaurant is located at 2836 Juan Street. Call 619-297-1631 for information and reservations.

Dining Scene

A decorative setting makes for fun parties and celebrations

Food and drinks are plentiful and flavorful.

by David Rottenberg

Enjoy Mother ’s Day With Us!



MayThru Mayn Spruce Up 2013 - The American Society of

Interior Designers (ASID) is offering affordable in-home design advice. For information and registration, call 858-274-3345 or visit www.ASIDSanDiego.org.

Thru Jul. 7n Art Exhibition - Piranesi, Rome and The Arts

of Design, will transport audiences from the gallery to the cobblestone streets of Rome at the San Diego Museum of Art. For tickets and information, visit www.sdmart.org.

May 1n Robin Henkel Band with Whitney Shay,

ArtLab Studios, 8-10 p.m., 3536 Adams Ave., 619 283-1151.

May 2n Dizzy’s presents jazz pianist Jaeryoung

Lee, an Elvis-Stevie Smackdown: jazzy versions of songs by Presley & Wonder vie with each other with the audience voting on the results. Featuring Jaeryoung Lee piano, Danny Weller bass, Kevin Koch drums, & vocalist Matt Falker - held at San Diego Jet Ski Rentals, 4275 Mission Bay Drive, 7:30PM - $15 cover ($10 students).

May 3—5n The Maritime Museum of San Diego’s Annual

Chocolate Festival: A Celebration of Chocolate on the Bay. The two day tasting and educational chocolate showcase features food, wine and a variety of chocolate treats. The event takes place, May 4 & 5 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Maritime Museum of San Diego, 1492 North Harbor Drive. The festival is included in the cost of Museum admission that weekend. “Wine, Cheese and Chocolate” A Festival for your Palette is a 21-and-over event being held on Friday, May 3, from 7 p.m.to 10 p.m. Mars Chocolate North America presents the history of chocolate over the years including wine and chocolate pairings from California Fruit Wine and David Bacco Chocolates, assorted chocolates and cheeses. Guests must show ID and tickets for this special event are $16.00 each.

Details and tickets are available www.sdmaritime.org or call 619 234-9153 x101.

n San Diego State University School of Music and Dance presents the SDSU University Dance Company performing new work directed by dance faculty Joe Alter, \t “_blank” Melissa Nunn, Patricia Sandback and Leslie Seiters. Performances are Friday, May 3 and Saturday, May 4 at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, May 5 at 2:00 p.m. in the Dance Studio Theater, Exercise and Nutritional Sciences Building (ENS), Room 200. Tickets to the University Dance Company are $12 general admission and $8 for students, and can be purchased online at sdsu.edu/musicdancetix, and at the Smith Recital Hall box office one hour prior to the performance.

n Old Town San Diego: Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo celebrates 30 years. Continuing the success of the 2012 celebration, this free festival extravaganza will once again extend from two to three days, on Friday, May 3 at 5:00 p.m. with All Night Happy Hour and Taco Tuesday specials and continue through the weekend on Saturday, May 4 from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Sunday, May 5 from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. This Fiesta will feature three stages with live entertainment, over 10 bands, traditional ballet folklorico dancers, equestrian shows, a mercado with over 100 retail and food booths, beer garden, and Lowrider Lane, which will all transform the streets into the largest Cinco de Mayo celebration north of the border.

May 4n San Diego Humane Society’s 19th Annual

Walk for Animals. More than 5,000 two-legged and 2,000 four-legged friends will take part to celebrate love for animals while raising the vital funds needed to ensure that every homeless animal can find a loving home. The morning festivities include a pancake breakfast, a scenic two-mile walk with an optional half-mile walk, fun-filled doggie activities and contests, and vendor booths. Registration at 7 a.m. at NTC Park, Liberty Station, 2455 Cushing Rd. Call 619 299-7012x2293 or visit www.sdhumane.org/walk.

May 4-5n National Comedy Theatre’s High School League

is holding an improv comedy tournament for

all high school participants. The winner of the competition will play against NCT’s main stage cast on Friday, May 11.Tickets are $5 each for the High School League performances on May 4 and 5. Saturday’s performances are from 1-5 pm., Sunday from 11-5 p.m. Tickets are available at the door. National Comedy Theatre is located at 3717 India Street in Mission Hills. For information, including performance schedules and group rates, visit www.nationalcomedy.com or call 619-295-4999.

n Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Flair at Diane Powers Bazaar del Mundo Family of Restaurants. Festivities Include folkloric dancers, mariachis, food and beverage specials, live entertainment from noon to 9:30 p.m. Bazaar del Mundo Shops, Old Town, 4133 Taylor St www.bazaardelmundo.com Restaurants include Casa Guadalajara, Old Town, 4105 Taylor Street, www.casaguadalajara.com, Casa de Pico, Grossmont Center, La Mesa,, www.casadepico.com , Casa de Bandini, The Forum, Carlsbad, 1901 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad, www.casadebandini.com.

n San Diego Women’s Chorus presents “Still We Rise” with special guests the Black Storytellers of San Diego, University Christian Church, 3900 Cleveland Ave, $12-$15, for information and times visit www. sdwc.org or call 619 291-3366.

May 5n Talmadge Arts Show - new, emerging, and

accomplished artists showcase and sell their works of art, from 10-4 pm, Liberty Station, Corky McMillin Events Center, 2875 Dewey Rd and Truxton Rd. For information and directions, visit www.talmadgeartshow.com.

May 8n The World’s Greatest Pink Floyd Show, Brit

Floyd, returns to North America to present P-U-L-S-E 2013, The Pink Floyd Ultimate Light & Sound Experience, a stunning new three hour show featuring note-for-note performances of five full album sides, including ‘Wish You Were Here’, ‘Animals’, ‘The Wall’, ‘The Division Bell’, and, in celebration of the 40th anniversary, Pink Floyd’s defining album, ‘The Dark Side of The Moon’. Visit Ticketmaster.com, or call 800 745-3000. For information, visit www.britfloyd.com.

May 9n Auction For Life, a live and silent auction to

benefit Scripps Cancer Care Stevens Division, 5:30 pm, Hyatt Regency La Jolla Aventine. For tickets and information visit www.scripps.org/spinoff or call 858 -678-6349.

May 11n Yale University a cappella group, The

Spizzwinks makes a stop in San Diego before their tour of the Far East to help raise money for local arts and music education organization, Classics 4 Kids. With a diverse repertoire ranging from traditional Yale songs to jazz standards to pop ballads to rock n’ roll, the Spizzwinks continue to perform and entertain with the same musicianship, humor and camaraderie of their founding members 98 years ago. La Jolla Country Day alum, Dan Stein is a member of this elite vocal ensemble and is returning home for this performance. Local sensation, Royce’s Voices a cappella ensemble will kick off the evening’s event, plus a not-so-silent auction to benefit Classics 4 Kids’ music and art programs from 6:00 to 9:30 p.m. at Town and Country Resort, 500 Hotel Circle North, tickets $15. For best available seats, call Classics 4 Kids at (619) 231-2311.

May 11 - 12n The Art Glass Guild, Spanish Village Art Center,

Balboa Park, Annual 2013 Spring Show and Patio Sale from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This is the largest art glass show in Southern California.

This show/sale will highlight various demonstrations including flame working and glass cutting. Free admission, visit www.artglassguild.com or call 619 702-8006.

May 12 n The 2013 Coronado Historic Home Tour will

take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please note that children under 10 are not permitted, and there is limited wheelchair access. Call (619) 435-7242, stop by the Coronado

Visitor Center (open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, 1100 Orange Avenue) or visit www. CoronadoHistory.org to purchase tickets.

n The San Diego Epiphyllum Society presents “Flora and Fauna AKA Epies and Animals” from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Casa del Prado, room 101 in Balboa Park. The Show’s theme will be displayed in arrangements, educational displays and competition tables. Cuttings and plants will be on sale in the courtyard. Visit www.epiphyllum.com for information.

May 10, 11 & 12n GATOR BY THE BAY, the biggest Zydeco

and Cajun festival on the West Coast, returns to Spanish Landing Park for a twelfth year of bringing the rich and unique culture of Louisiana to San Diego, with 5 stages and 85 performances. Headlining the festival for the first time will be the Grammy-nominated Zydeco band Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie, playing both Friday and Saturday.

For a complete lineup with band bios, schedule and prices, visit www.gatorbythebay.com.

May 15n Robin Henkel Band w/ Whitney Shay & Billy

Watson, ArtLab Studios, 8-10pm, 3536 Adams Ave., 619 283-1151.

n Free Author Talk on San Diego’s Waterfront and Little Italy at 6:30 p.m. Jim Bregante, author of “Generations of Memories . . . on never to be forgotten India Street,” will share his experience of growing up in Little Italy, near the vibrant life of the waterfront, via a PowerPoint presentation featuring pictures from historical and family archives at Mission Hills Branch Library, 925 W. Washington St. 619- 692-4910.

May 16n Free Gardening Presentation at 6:30 p.m. A

representative from the Square Foot Gardening Foundation will provide information on how to garden organically in urban environments at Mission Hills Branch Library, 925 W. Washington St. 619 692-4910.

May 18n The San Diego Branch of the International

Dyslexia Association (IDA) will hold their 4th Annual Spring Parent & Educator Conference Dyslexia: Enhancing Knowledge & Practice from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies on campus at the University of San Diego. Day of the event registration is $125 for IDA members and $150 for non-members. Graduate credit is available. Tickets can be purchased at www.dyslexiasd.org/events.

n The San Diego Floral Association, San Diego’s oldest Garden Association, presents its annual “garden tour with a difference.” Explore eight gardens in the charming and historic Burlingame and North Park neighborhoods. Vendors in a garden marketplace on the day of the tour will offer arts and crafts. Tickets are $20 ($25 day of the tour) and will be available at local San Diego nurseries and online through the Floral Association website www.sdfloral.org.

May 18-19n Party on the Embarkadero- A two day

celebration for kids will include kids costume contests, carnival games, cannon firings, weapon demonstrations, sword fights, appearances by mermaids and scavenger hunt for pirate treasure. Tickets are $16 for adults and $8 for kids 4-12, kids 3 and under are free which includes admission to the museum and all pirate activities. Kids and adults who wear pirate or mermaid costumes to the event will receive a $2 admission discount. On board performances will be at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. for an additional fee. Seating is very limited on the Treasure Seeker ship. A 45 minute Historic Bay Cruise on San Diego Bay aboard the Pilot boat is available for just $5 plus the cost of admission. For information, call 619-234-9153 ext. 101 or visit the museum’s website at www.sdmartime.org.

May 19n Party San Diego’s Sicilian American community

invites everyone to “Eat, Drink & Be Sicilian” for a day as part of the 20th Annual Sicilian Festival celebration in San Diego’s Little Italy neighborhood from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.,

Calendar

Sunday,. Thanks to a generous sponsorship by the Xerox Corporation, The Sicilian Tenors, direct from New York City, will headline this year’s 20th Anniversary Event. The popular, free family event features authentic Sicilian wine, food and entertainment.

May 22n The San Diego Air & Space Museum is offering

a special after-hours opportunity to meet Buzz Aldrin. Who with co-author Leonard David will be signing their new book “Mission to Mars: My Vision for Space Exploration.” Copies of Aldrin’s children’s book “Look to the Stars,” will also be available for purchase. This special after-hours event requires an advanced online ticket and book purchase. Only books purchased online through the Museum will be signed. $29 per person—includes Museum admission, access to Buzz Aldrin book signing, entrance to the current special exhibition: Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, access to the 3D/4D Zable Movie Theater, and simulator rides. Advanced ticket purchase is required. Aldrin will only autograph books purchased online from the Museum. 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., San Diego Air & Space Museum, Balboa Park, 619 234-8291x140.

n Eat. Drink. Read - Noted chefs from some of San Diego’s most celebrated restaurants will take inspiration from their favorite books in order to concoct literary-inspired dishes for a delicious event, all designed to raise awareness and funds for The San Diego Council on Literacy. The event is from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at NTC Promenade, McMillan Event Center (Building 177), 2875 Dewey Road, food, wine, beer and appetizers included. Silent auction from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. $65.00 per person. Purchase tickets at www.eatdrinkread.com.

May 25n Vantage Theatre, Mainly Mozart and the Timken

Museum of Art are proud to present a special staged reading adaptation of Robert Salerno’s Cadenza: Mozart’s Last Year, at 7 p.m. at The Timken Museum of Art, 1500 El Prado in Balboa Park, as part of the Mainly Mozart Festival celebration of its 25th year anniversary. For information, visit www.timkenmuseum.org, or call (619) 239-5548.

May 26n Robin Henkel Band with Whitney Shay, blues

and jazz concert at 3343 Adams Ave., $8/person all ages For information, call 619-282-0437.

May 29n Robin Henkel Band w wutgWhitney Shay

& Billy Watson from 8 to 10 p.m. at ArtLab Studios, 3536 Adams Ave. For information, call 619 283-1151.

June 1n Back to the Beach, Makua’s annual fundraiser

benefiting Voices for Children’s Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program, a 1950’s style island party at the beautiful Kona Kai Resort on San Diego’s Shelter Island. Guests will have the opportunity to bid on exciting and unique experiences such as a week sailing on the luxury yacht “The World,” the only private residential community-at-sea where residents travel the globe without ever leaving home; or fabulous Dugout Seats at Petco Park to watch in style while the Padres play. The evening will culminate with dancing to the rocking sounds of Jocko and the Rockets, featuring Jocko from the Sha Na Na TV show, veteran of the movie “Grease,” and the Woodstock Festival. For information visit www.makua.org.



23Classified

Commissioned sales position for print, video

and website ads.Join an exciting team and rapidly

growing company.Sales experience preferred.

Call 619-481-9817

Need a helping hand? Seniors, Children, Pets, House

Sitting & MoreGreat references and experience.

Call Mr. Tom at 619-885-9605

Let Me Tame Your Paper Monster

Do you need help? Bill paying, accounting, tax preparation, organizing your office and home? With 25 years experience and lots of qualified references, I have worked for small business owners and home based owners and independent contractors, etc. Let me do what I do best so you can do what you do best - run your home or business. Call Isabelle at (619) 335-7074. References available.

VIDEO PRODUCTIONVideo production services from conception to final product. Call 619.296.8731

AD SALES POSITION

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CAREGIVER SERVICES

Master Carpenter at Your Service?

Free estimates. Remodeling and repairs. Replace decks. Replace doors and windows. Cabinet repairs, and dry rot repairs. Painting projects. Beekeeping services. Local references. Contractors’ License #6066009 Call Ralph at (619) 250-1691

• •SERVICES CONTINUED

Voices for Children is determined to help each and every child in

San Diego’s foster care system. Meeting this ambitious goal means a CASA volunteer for every foster child who needs one. It means we must

have the community’s help.

It means we need you.Become a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)

and make a difference in the life of a foster child.Go to www.speakupnow.org

or call 858-598-2235 for location.

Grace Lutheran Church and Preschool

Our website is: www.gracesandiego.com

Sunday School and

Bible Study is at 9:00 a.m.

The Divine Service is at 10:00 a.m. and a Wednesday evening Communion

service at 6:00 p.m.

Grace Lutheran Preschool6 months to Pre-K directed by Rexanna Blas

UNIVERSAL SPIRIT CENTER A Center for Spiritual Living

Rev. Kevin Bucy, Senior Minister 858 Front Street (at University and Front Streets)

San Diego, CA 92103 Extra parking across the street at Florence School

www.universalspiritcenter.org.(619) 291-4728

SUNDAY MORNING GATHERINGS 8:00 a.m. Meditative with full message

10:00 a.m. Music-filled gathering (with Youth Ministry available)

11:30 a.m. Music-filled gathering

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

Mission Hills Branch Library May 2013 Events

LEGO Playtime5/01, 5/08, 5/15, 5/22, 5/29 (Every Wednesday) 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.

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

Mission Hills Book Group5/02, 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.

The Mission Hills Book Group will discuss “Kim” by Rudyard Kipling. New members are always welcome.

Please read the book beforehand. Copies of the book are available at the Circulation Desk while supplies last. Note:

This month’s meeting will be at Mission Hills Books & Collectibles at 4054 Goldfinch St.

Preschool Storytime5/03, 5/10, 5/17, 5/24, 5/31 (Every Friday) 10:30 to 11:00 a.m.

Children are invited to a fun storytime with books and possibly singing and puppets.

Children’s Craft Time5/04, 5/11, 5/18, 5/25 (Every Saturday) 10:30 a.m.

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

Signing Storytime05/06, 05/20, 1:30 to 2:15 p.m.

Twice a month, babies, toddlers, and preschoolers can have fun while learning sign language

Pajama Storytime5/07, 5/14, 5/21, 5/28 (Every Tuesday) 6:30 to 7:00 p.m.

Children are invited to an evening storytime with books and possibly singing and puppets.

Feel free to come dressed in your pajamas.Free Author Talk on San Diego’s

Waterfront and Little Italy05/15, 6:30 p.m.

Jim Bregante, author of “Generations of Memories... on never to be forgotten India Street,” will share his

experience of growing up in Little Italy, near the vibrant life of the waterfront, via a PowerPoint presentation

featuring pictures from historical and family archives.Free Gardening Presentation

05/16, 6:30 p.m. A representative from the Square Foot Gardening

Foundation will provide information on how to garden organically in urban environments.

Book Sale05/18, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

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

while supporting your Library.Free Harp Concert

05/18, 1:00 p.m. Julie Ann Smith, principal harpist with the San Diego

Symphony, will perform a solo harp concert.Mystery Book Group05/23, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The Mystery Book Group will discuss a mystery novel. New members are always welcome. Please read the book

beforehand. Copies of the book are available at the Circulation Desk while supplies last.

Mission Hills Branch Library925 West Washington Street

San Diego, CA 92103 • 619.692.4910 www.facebook.com/mhlibrary

DANCE & Musical TheatreGet into shape, feel beautiful, graceful, and get in touch with your creativity. Classes for Kids

and Adults in North Park. Kids Musical Theatre, Pre-dance for 3-5, Adults—Broadway Stars Jazz,

Classical Ballet, Contemporary, and Tap. [email protected] call 619.501.4821



Directory

Put Your Name In Front of 35,000 Potential Customers! For more information, call (619) 296-8731

Civic CalendarHillcrest1st Tuesday

UPTOWN PLANNERS Joyce Beers Hall in Uptown Mall. 6:30 p.m.

1st ThursdayUPTOWN PARTNERSHIP3101 Fifth Ave. Call (619)298-2541. 4:30 p.m.

Thursdays 7 - 8:30 pmSAN DIEGO UPTOWN ROTARYCLUB 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.

Kensignton-Talmadge2nd Wednesday

KENSINGTON-TALMADGE PLANNING COMMITTEEKensington Community Church. 6:30 p.m.For information, call (619) 284-0551

Linda Vista2nd Monday

LVCPC Agenda– LINDAVISTACOMMUNITYPLANNING COMMITTEE AGENDALinda Vista Library meeting room.Contact Jeff Perwin at 1-619-806-9559 for details 6 pm.

3rd TuesdayTech Committee - Technology Committee Bayside Community Center. Contact Xiongh Thao for detail at (858) 278-0771 or email [email protected] or [email protected] or visit our website www.lindavistaSD.org.

3rd WednesdayLV Historical– LINDAVISTAHISTORICALCOMMITTEE 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– LINDAVISTACOLLABORATIVE Bayside Community Center at 3pm. Contact Monica Fernandez at 858-278-0771 or [email protected]. For details visit www.facebook.com/LVCollaborative

3rd Wednesday (Odd Months)TCCAC– TECOLOTE CANYON CITIZEN’SADVISORYCOMMITTEE Tecolote Nature Center. Contact Eloise Battle for details. 7 p.m.

3rd ThursdayLinda Vista Town CouncilBaha’i Faith Center Alcala Knoll DriveContact Thomas Kaye 858-277-6793 at 6:30 p.m.

4th MondayLVCPC– LINDAVISTACOMMUNITYPLANNING COMMITTEELinda Vista Library Meeting Room.Contact Ed Cramer at (619) 222-2047 for details. 7:00 p.m.

4th WednesdayLVPC – 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 ViewLinda Vista Town Council Community NewsletterContact Thomas Kaye at 858-278-6973

Various WednesdaysLVNewsletter– LINDAVISTAVIEW Civic Association Community Newsletter. Bayside Community Center. Contact Sarah Granby at (858) 405-7135 or e-mail [email protected]. 2:00 p.m.

Mission HillsMay 22, 2013

Mission Hills Garden Club meets from 6 to 8 p.m. at the church on Jackdaw between West Lewis and Fort Stockton Drive for a presentation by Amy Huie speaking on “How do your native plants grow?” Members are free; guest fee is $10 which you may apply toward your membership if you join that night. For information, visit www.missionhillsgardenclub.org.

Ocean BeachOCEAN BEACH PLANNING BOARD Ocean Beach Recreation Center, 4726 Santa Monica Ave. Call (619) 523-1700. 7 - 9:30 p.m.

4th WednesdayOCEAN 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 May 1, 2013

Point Loma Garden Club. “San Diego In Full Bloom”: Designer Jeannie Irwin will discuss and also model her colorful floral-inspired hats at the meeting of the Point Loma Garden Club, 10 a.m. in Portuguese Hall, 2818 Avenida de Portugal, Point Loma. (Note the date change from the second Wednesday to the first Wednesday for this month only.) Garden Club members are encouraged to wear their own floral-themed hats to the event. More info at: www.plgc.org.

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It’s only $5000 a month for one-time placement,

and $3500 a month for 3-time placement...



25All 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

Real Estate

Real Estate

Show Your Listing Here!

Put Your Name In Front of

35,000 Potential Customers!For more information, call 619.296.8731

Call Jim Scott, Broker DRE #830226 at (619) 920-9511

4252 Aloha PlaceCharming Spanish jewel nestled on a quiet canyon setting in North Mission Hills. Enjoy both verdant and Point Loma views from this lovely 3 bedroom, 2 bath home. Gleaming

hardwood floors, 15’ ceilings in the living room, glorious sun porch, tranquil courtyard, beautiful fireplaces, multiple trex

decks, along with superb storage and workshop rooms.

North Mission Hills

$1,095,000


1774-1776 Torrance StreetPrivate North Mission Hills duplex featuring sweeping city, bay and ocean views. 2200 square feet, spacious patios, and two large

garages. A real value at $795,000.

North Mission Hills

$795,000

In Esc

row


1995 Guy StreetA perfect blend of old and new. Freshly redone Prairie home in North Mission

Hills. 2650 square feet, spa, views, and a spectacular outside entertainment space.Call

Jim to view this special property.

North Mission Hills

$1,395,000

Call Lisa Mortensen, Agent, DRE #00583530 at 619-818-5566

3160 Maple StreetThe wait is over! Well-maintained,

Spanish-style home located in the historic Burlingame district. Home has Mills Act in place. Recent tax bill is $1,621 per year.

Burlingame

$789,000

In Esc

row

Call Rocky Rockhill, Agent, DRE #01197738 at 619-972-3033

2838 Eagle StreetBright, airy Mid-Century Modern home in South Mission Hills with abundant outdoor living space. 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths.

Large, lush backyard with mature trees and California natives provides more than ample space for entertaining and relaxing.

Custom-designed hardscaping. Large deck off dining room offers views to the cruise ships by day and downtown skyline

and Embarcadero fireworks at night. French doors off the bedroom lead to a deck overlooking the garden.

South Mission Hills

$699,000

Maureen and Antoinette Coldwell Banker

Residential Brokerage

619-800-1103

Gated EstateThis one-of-a-kind property was designed by world renowned architect Arthur Porras and

has never before been offered for sale. Over 6,000 sq. ft. of exceptional quality on huge,

private canyon parcel. Please call for details.

Mission Hills



619-800-1103

1977 Alameda TerraceThis 1922 Mission Hills Classic has been lovingly expanded & updated with a new

gourmet kitchen, fabulously tiled bathrooms, and a brand new master suite. Front and back patios make this home an entertainer’s delight!

Mission Hills

$1,045,000



619-800-1103

3755 Pringle StreetToday’s version of Yesterday’s Craftsman—this stylish 3/3.5 was built with character, style and

quality materials. Featuring an indoor/outdoor family room, peaceful master retreat, and panoramic views

of the Downtown skyline and harbor.

Mission Hills

$1,629,000



619-800-1103

3960 Alameda PlaceMeticulous detail and quality

materials were used in the 2009 remodel of this 3/3 home.

Go to www.3960AlamedaPlace.com for more details and additional photos.

Mission Hills

$1,325,000



619-800-1103

2038 Fort StocktonSpanish façade with contemporary

spaces in the heart of North Mission Hills. Go to www.2038FortStockton.com

for more details and additional photos.

Mission Hills

$809,900

74-430 PALO VERDE DRIVE Short sale in the luxury Vintage. Over 5,000 square feet on a private lake.

See more details at www.SDHomePro.com

JONATHAN SCHNEEWEISSJ.D., LL.M. Broker

Voted in San Diego Magazine’s, “Best in Client Satisfaction,” 2008 -2013

DRE# 01378508

619-279-3333

Indian Wells

$1,895,000

Pending

1465 C #3219 Union Square 2b/2ba, Condo in Union Square with giant terrace, 2 parking spaces and

amenities galore. See more details at ww.SDHomePro.com

JONATHAN SCHNEEWEISSJ.D., LL.M. Broker

Voted in San Diego Magazine’s, “Best in Client Satisfaction,” 2008 -2013

DRE# 01378508

619-279-3333

Downtown

$359,000

New

Listing

2868 Hawthorn Street 3 bed/2bath with pool on a cul de sac. See more details at

ww.SDHomePro.comJONATHAN SCHNEEWEISS

J.D., LL.M. BrokerVoted in San Diego Magazine’s,

“Best in Client Satisfaction,” 2008 -2013DRE# 01378508

619-279-3333

SOUTH PARK

$699K—$749K

SOLD

Call Salvatore Cefalu • 858-243-4554 DRE# 01435914 • [email protected]

1302 Elevation Road Wow… Gorgeous Bay Park property with sit down views… Traditional sale… This single level home has been recently

updated inside and out. This view property has great attention to detail from the custom gournet kitchen with ss hood to the new custom stone floors and newly renovated bath. Let your

self enjoy sit down views from a large living room and from the backyard views that sprawl to La Jolla.

Bay Park

$499,000

Active

Thank You for Reading this Months Issue!- Presidio Communications -

Scott & Quinn has three offices, in Mission Hills at 1111 Fort Stockton Drive, in Normal Heights at 30th and Adams Avenue, and in South Park at 2973 Beech Street. The company also features Scott & Quinn Property Management. Founded in 1982, Scott & Quinn is the oldest full service real estate firm in Mission Hills and is still locally owned and operated. Jim has been a homeowner in Mission Hills since 1976. Jim’s past Market Reports dating from 1997 are on the company web site at www.sqre.com.

Jim Scott, Broker, DRE #830226, 619-920-9511

The spring real estate rally shows no signs of slowing. The media is in bull market mode with many stories on depleted inventories, bidding wars, appreciation, and frustrated buyers. Further, an article appeared in the local paper a week ago with an improbable headline proclaiming prices had increased 19 percent over the past year. That news got my phone ringing, but the increase was statistical gerrymandering. Mission Hills’ prices, for example, are only up about 15 percent over the past three years.

Even so, there is only good news for San Diego’s beleaguered homeowners, many with negative equity. The data suggests there will be a period of moderate appreciation, probably lasting four to five years. Those looking for double-digit increases will be disappointed. Income growth and the Federal Reserve Board will keep prices in check.

Looking at the past three up-markets does provide some rationale for the exuberant view of housing’s future. From 1976 to 1980 prices doubled. Beginning in 1986, there was a three year run that saw home values jump 20 percent a year. Appreciation escalated far more slowly during 1996-2007. Considering mortgage rates were lower in the 1996-2007 market, the rising market during the 1996-2007 cycle seems comparatively modest.

There are two major concerns. The first is that each market upcycle is less robust than its predecessor. The second, and of greater concern, is that each of the past four recessions has been more destructive than the one before. Although these two patterns may be insignificant, I would argue otherwise. Recessions correct market distortions; this past downturn was particularly brutal because of the credit debacle.

To make sense of the changes in the character of these cycles, experts look for changes in market variables. One article written by a scholar from conservative think tank the American Enterprise Institute, argues that today’s real estate values are not completely set by the free market, but instead are inflated (and supported) by Federal policies and housing agencies. If this argument has merit, as I believe it does, the future of prices, even in San Diego, may be influenced more by Washington than by sellers and buyers engaging in honest price discovery.

There are three ways Washington is involved in the real estate marketplace. The most well known way is the mortgage interest deduction. Although limited to mortgages under one million, this program is a direct subsidy for house payments. Having the benefits of this tax expenditure allows buyers to purchase more property than they ordinarily could afford which in turn supports higher prices. The

mortgage interest deduction is just as revered as Social Security and Medicare, but as the budget compromises of 2013 illustrate, these sacred cows are not invulnerable. The Pease Limitation, which reduces the deductibility of mortgage interest for higher wage earners, was just reinstated after a four year hiatus. And I would not be surprised to see the mortgage interest deduction limit reduced to $750,000 from $1,000,000 during the next budget cycle.

Second, the twin agencies run by the Federal Housing Finance Agency, commonly known as Freddie and Fannie, have a huge influence on the cost and availability of mortgages, which in turn has an outsized influence on home prices. These corporations, known as GSEs (government sponsored enterprises) own or guarantee half of all mortgages in this country. Without the Federal insurance, banks would receive less money for their mortgage-backed securities on the secondary market. Higher loan rates reduce real estate purchasing power.

Third, as discussed last month, Mr. Bernanke at the Fed is committed to keeping mortgage rates at historic lows. Each month the Fed purchases treasuries and mortgage backed securities, artificially keeping 30-year home loans under four percent. One has to wonder just how robust the real estate market would be with six or seven percent rates.

Privatization has been an economic and political touchstone for many over the past few decades.

It is not a giant leap to think that housing, over the next few years, could lose some federal largesse as Washington struggles to rein in budget deficits. The mortgage interest deduction will be in play in future budget cycles. Freddie and Fannie, although now in profit, recently needed 180 billion from the taxpayers to stay afloat. Without Mr. Bernanke’s commitment to support housing prices, the cost of saving Freddie and Fannie from bankruptcy would have been much higher. Finally, if general inflation becomes a problem, the Fed could easily tamp down real estate prices with punishing interest rates.

The net economic effect of these potential changes is hard to calculate. The citizenry has to make some difficult choices over the next two or three budget cycles and housing will take some hits. Most of these changes will be applied gradually and these new policies will dampen effective housing demand, keeping the market orderly, which is good for the society and the economy. Mr. Bernanke, on the other hand, has the ability to shut the party down quickly if things get out of hand. And I am sure he has Paul Volker’s phone number.

1809 West Montecito WayMission Hills • $1,650,000

Spacious Craftsman in the heart of North Mission Hills. 4 Bedrooms and 2.5 baths accented by gorgeous hardwood floors, built-ins, window seats, box beam ceilings, moldings and wood trim. The kitchen has been remodeled and opens to the family room. All four bedrooms are on the upper level. A beautiful home on a very desirable street.

Call Jim Scott, Broker (DRE#830226) at 619-920-9511

The Three Legged Stool

Documents

Presidio Sentinel, May 2013. Vol. 14, No. 4