The Coast News Group
Machel's Ranch

The pictures tell the story, ask songwriter David Gates

One of my favorite songs ever written was coincidentally coined the year in 1971, the year I was born. I know I’m not supposed to admit my age and all because I am a woman, but I like being straightforward and to the point. The song “If” by Bread posed a brilliant question, “If a picture paints a thousand words, than why can’t I paint you?” With the recent release of “The Social Network,” I am beginning to think that songwriter David Gates’ thinking was way ahead of his time and he should be proud to see how the world of Facebook truly imitates his lyrics.
After enjoying a wonderful weekend with friends this year for Halloween, what do you think I did that night after all of the festivities? I checked my Facebook home page to see all of the fascinating posts by friends. There’s nothing like seeing someone else’s life captured in photographs, a quick memory that was made in the snap of one photo. Pictures. Moments. Smiles. Friendships. Our lives touch our friends and loved ones every day. And, how lovely is it that we can capture one moment in a picture and share it with our friends? This week in my column, please enjoy these wonderful vignettes and stories that I feel honored to share with you.
Around Town
On Oct. 10, Molly McCrink and Walter Beringer were married in Cabo San Lucas on the white sandy beach under a blue streaked sky. Long time Ranch residents, the McCrink family celebrated in style with more than 100 guests that day. The photo that I have featured here is of two gorgeous sisters who look like movie stars on a Mexican vacation. Laurel McCrink and Katie Shull look absolutely dazzling in a shot from that special weekend.
On Oct. 21, on behalf of The Coast News Group, my husband and I stopped by Herman Cook’s gorgeous showroom in Encinitas to enjoy the unveiling of the 2011 Jetta. Champagne and hors d’oeuvres were served to all of the invited guests, while the new cars were on display. Owner Dennis Cook with son Conner and Dan Belt are featured here from that fun evening. Thanks for inviting The Coast News!
On Oct. 23, Ranch resident Violet MacDonald welcomed her brother Art McLaughlin and his wife Bunny from Halifax, Nova Scotia. Each year Violet’s brother Art brings live lobster for a family feast for the MacDonald clan. Violet looked stunning that evening in her black sweater attire with diamond buttons. She is featured here with her brother Art and with two of her grandchildren, Reese and Holden MacDonald. From what I hear, at one point the lobsters were even crawling around on the floor trying to make a grand escape. Think “Julie & Julia” the movie here. Next year, I’m hoping for an invite for the great lobster feast under the eucalyptus trees.  
On Oct. 24, the NCL Del Sol Fashion Show was held at the Del Mar Hilton.
The models featured in the runway fashion show were 10th grade girls from all over North County. Featured here are two of the models from that day, Lauren Sorge with Taylor Maloney. The event was produced by James Cambell Productions from Los Angeles. Congrats to all of the wonderful teen beauties who are donating their spare time to the National Charity League.
On that same day in a different part of town, Chargers fans came out in style to tailgate before the big game. Featured here in a photo that definitely captures the “Chargers Spirit” in San Diego,  are the Shull family with the Gorwit family tailgating before kickoff. Unfortunately that day the Chargers lost to the St. Louis Rams 20 to 17. However, I’m sure that won’t stop this city from believing in one of their beloved sports teams.
On Oct. 30, I stopped by my one of my favorite places in Rancho Santa Fe — The Book Cellar, one of the best used book stores in North County. As a lover of books, this bookstore is a jewel to be found for Rancho Santa Fe residents in search of the next great read for the weekend. For a quick reading tip, try a Luanne Rice novel. She is a tremendous writer with great depth and heart, which can be found woven into all of her characters. But most of all, don’t forget to support the local economy, buy a book from The Book Cellar this holiday season.
Later that day, I received an e-mail regarding an amazing photography exhibition in Solana Beach at the Ordover Gallery. From the end of October to the beginning week in January, you can enjoy “The Storm Series New Works,” by Mitch Dobrowner. Mr. Dobrowner is an accomplished black and white, fine art photographer and has received numerous awards, including National Geographic Society’s “Visions of Paradise.” Featured here is one of his photos from the exhibit. Take a wonderful Saturday excursion to visit his exhibit in located just around the corner in Solana Beach.
Save the date
On Nov. 13, guess who is coming to town? Ms. Diane Keaton. Yes, that’s right, an Oscar winner in Rancho Santa Fe. Ms. Keaton will be at Helen Woodward Animal Center for the HOPE Telethon on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event helps raise proceeds for animals all over in need of love and care. How exciting the Diane Keaton will be in town, even if she’s really here to help the animals? I am looking forward to meeting her.
If you have a story you would like to share, please contact Machel at [email protected].