Two kids on the block
I can still recall the summer day when I met the gremmie. He had spiky hair and was tanned, fit, talkative and very funny. He...
Columns
Pastaria Vivi’s secret ingredient is its culture
When Frank and I attended Pastaria Vivi’s grand opening media event in Encinitas a few months ago, we left knowing there was much more to...
The Plot thickens at Plantscape
It’s a cool summer evening in South Oceanside. The breeze is blowing through the large vegetable garden brimming with elephant ear kale, tiny golden summer...
Scoopy Scoopy in Leucadia takes ice cream to another level
Before I get into the Scoopy Scoopy story, I thought it appropriate to provide a backstory on the Leucadia phenomenon of word repetition that began...
How I almost got scammed
I like to think I’m an intelligent guy. I read everything I can, earned a couple of college degrees, and pay attention to the world...
Honoring the fallen and the standing
There’s a joke about a rich man who dies and goes to heaven, only to find that his celestial home is made of inferior materials...
Flowers can help dress up a porch this summer
When I am looking for something special for my front porch, I head to a tiny flower shop in Carlsbad. Bamby’s Flowers is a gem,...
Paws, purpose and ocean views — a new summer tradition comes to Encinitas
This summer, two Encinitas Chamber members are teaming up to create an unforgettable community experience that combines coastal views, canine companionship and a great cause....
Landing at the Regal Seagull in Encinitas
One glaring hole in my San Diego Beer Drinker resume has been The Regal Seagull on the 101 in Encinitas. I’ve driven by it countless...
Romanella features Ruffino at inaugural wine dinner
Since opening last October in San Diego’s Bay Park neighborhood, Romanella Cucina Romana has quickly established itself as a destination for authentic Italian cuisine. Created...
The importance of bracketing domain names
In photography, bracketing means taking multiple shots of the same scene from slightly different angles, ensuring one turns out correctly. Sometimes you’ll also get a...
The 70/30 rule to rid the garden of rodents
There is a loosely stated rule among gardeners, which goes like this: “70% of your garden space should be dedicated to feeding your household, and...
An elevated McRib and more at Shake Shack
I’m going to admit up front that when McDonald’s offers its limited-time, annual McRib, I make it a point to partake. I order two, one...
In the shadow of the pier
By the summer of 1962, I spent most weekends hitchhiking from Montebello to Huntington Beach Pier with my best friend, Chicky. As often as not,...
You’ve been warned!
Over the years I’ve watched more than my share of television and movies, and have observed countless warnings of flashing lights, tobacco use, rude language,...