Del Mar, Calif. gets 'D' grade for lousy tobacco policy from American Lung Association

The American Lung Association in California gave the city of Del Mar a D rating for its tobacco policies.

The annual report, which was released Wednesday, issues grades for all cities and counties in California on local tobacco control policies including those for smokefree outdoor environments, smokefree housing, and reducing sales of tobacco products.

Despite the city's overall low grade, Del Mar along with Solana Beach and El Cajon lead the pack with A grades in the Smokefree Outdoor Air category.

Overall, the association said the state of California "falls short in adequately funding tobacco prevention programs to protect children and curb tobacco-caused disease." California earned an A grade for its smokefree air policies but received a D for its low cigarette tax, an F for failing to adequately fund tobacco prevention and control programs, and another F for poor coverage of smoking cessation and treatment services.

“Safeguarding... (more)

The operator of the Del Mar Fairgrounds announced today that it would move forward with renovations after settling a lawsuit over its master plan.

Political leaders of Del Mar and Solana Beach sign the Del Mar Fairgrounds agreement with Adam Day, president of the 22nd District Agricultural Association.

 Political leaders of Del Mar and Solana Beach sign the Del Mar Fairgrounds agreement with Adam Day, president of the 22nd District Agricultural Association.

Political leaders of Del Mar and Solana Beach sign the Del Mar Fairgrounds agreement with Adam Day, president of the 22nd District Agricultural Association

Photo By Alison St John

The 22nd District Agricultural Association, the state agency that runs the fairgrounds, agreed to take several steps to settle the court action filed in May 2011 by the cities of Del Mar and Solana Beach and the San Dieguito River Park Joint Powers Authority.

The litigation challenged the plan's environmental impact report. The sprawling park is home to the annual... (more)

Solana Beach-Del Mar-River Park environmental impact lawsuit against Fairgrounds settled

The 22nd District Agricultural Association, the cities of Solana Beach and Del Mar, and the San Dieguito River Park Joint Powers Authority have settled litigation over the District’s Master Plan Environmental report.

The cities of Del Mar and Solana Beach and the San Dieguito River Park had sued the 22nd District Agricultural Association, which operates the state-owned Del Mar Fairgrounds regarding the district’s master plan for upgrading its facilities. The lawsuit challenged the adequacy of environmental studies conducted in support of the master plan.

Concerns about the Master Plan impacts were addressed to the satisfaction of both cities and the SD River Park JPA, officials said.

“The settlement over our Master Plan EIR paves the way for the 22nd DAA to work towards the renovation of the Fairgrounds’ old and outdated exhibit facilities, and at the same time implements additional measures beyond what is called out in the EIR,... (more)

Quest for hats: A hat is a hat is a hat, but not actually, especially come Del Mar racing

                           Could that be designer Claudia Hapeman sporting veil, mask, and, possiby, hat?

Come opening day at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club; hats, hats and more hats are the madcap sidebar to the main story of the moment, namely the excitement of racing's return.

Thus begins the big fat hat dilemma for otherwise fashionable and well-appointed ladies.

Many women say they love hats, but never have occasion to wear them. Others complain a top hat, design-wise, is hard to find.

"Hat Day is opening Day," said Karen Moller, an official in the Country Friends. It's one of Rancho Santa Fe's leading charitable groups, with 1,100 members and a history of donating more than $12 million to local social service organizations since its inception in 1954. the ladies also have held a very impressive hat contest during their annual Day at the Races event, traditionally the second day of the meet, for 50 years.

"We have a hat parade and contest," Moller said. "It's just fun for women to find that perfect hat for the perfect outfit, but there are not many opportunities for women to wear hats.

"Hats are hard to find," Moller continued. "Nordstrom has a ton of them and boutiques in Del Mar Plaza, but that's about it."

Or consider the perspective of Ara Shamlyan, owner of the now defunct Scalini Restaurant, a longtime former fixture mere minutes from the Del Mar track.

Also a racing enthusiast, Shamlyan knows Royal Ascot at York, the premiere English thoroughbred racing event where hats have been the main course for hundreds of years. He has had is photo taken in the winner's circle at the Kentucky Derby with victorious Rancho Santa Fe horse breeders, and owners, such as Bob and Beverly Lewis.

"I've been going to the races here for many years," Shamlyan said. "Wearing hats is the perfect thing to do here.

"But buying hats in San Diego is difficult," Shamlyan quickly added. "There are no hat shops. It's not like the Kentucky Derby where the hotels set up hat boutiques for the women so they can match their hats to their dresses."

Claudia Hapeman models one of her designer hats.

 It is not enough to have just any hat, people say. those in the fashionable know must have a great hat, a hat with character and panache, a hat that stands up and out, over, and above the crowd of ordinary, more pedestrian, walking around hats.

Enter artist/designer Claudia Hapeman, best known locally for her ornate carnival masks. Seeing the need for high quality, exquisite and distinctive hats., and realizing the Del Mar racing crowd was counting down the days to the big show of hats at the track, Hapeman sprang into action.

Hats to her left, hats to her right, hats morning, noon and night. Hapeman spent the last few weeks buried at her studio on a quest for hats. She designed and personally constructed about 30 hats -- chic, stylish, smart, cool, hot, coolly coolly hot, in vogue, hip and smashing hats.

And now, the fruits of Hapeman's hat designs, part of her Modern Millinery collection and dot.com, are ready for their close-ups.

"Variety and variation, combination and customization," Hapeman said. "The sky is the limit for these hats. They are wearable, comfortable, well-balanced. They can be conversation pieces, works of art, decorated and highly individualized."

Another Hapeman in hat, hat.

 Hapeman's hats are priced from $65 to $500 depending on materials and complexity. She constructs them as one would a story or work of art. There's a background, middle ground and foreground providing a layered, and structurally sound look. Simpler hats may take a few off-and-on hours. Ornate, potential hat contest winners may take two or three days.

Most importantly, while a store such as Nordstrom has quality hats to be sure, they also are available to the many, not the only. Hapeman's collection is unique in offering one-of-a-kind hats nobody else will wear.

Hapeman grew up in Dutchess County, New York, horse country in the Hudson River Valley, about 90 miles north of New York City. She graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology.

An artist specializing in 3-D imagery and sculpture among other disciplines, Hapeman lived around Rancho Santa Fe for more than 10 years before recently relocating back to Dutchess County. She has been a longtime horse trainer and professional show jumper rider, winning numerous awards and competitions.

Hats may be commissioned, or obtained, through SoCal Venetian Masks at www.SoCalDesignCo.com .

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Hats aside, Claudia Hapeman has been busy this year. She is well known as a master mask-maker with Venetian carnival, and decorative designer masks featured at numerous A-List events throughout the nation. Her SoCal Design Company also has lines of capes and accessories such as mask sticks and stands, and yes, who doesn't need one -- feather boas.

Hapeman appeared in June on the season premiere of Gene Simmons' "Family Jewels" when she worked with the family on designs for daughter Sophie's Sweet 16 party.

Hapeman also designed masks for the Touchstone movie "You Again",  from Disney Pictures, and directed by Andy Fickman. The movie featured Kristen Bell, Jamie Lee Curtis, Sigourney Weaver, Kristin Chenowith and Betty White.

More than 100 of Hapeman's high-end, designer masks are featured by the Gilt Groupe, an invitation-only luxury shopping web site. She also has a relationship with high-end costume designer Frankie Stein. And not least, but last, she has created several masks for a super A-List personality whose name can not be publicly revealed due to contractual obligations.

Could that be designer Claudia Hapeman sporting veil, mask, and, possiby, hat?

Big Changes Afoot at Del Mar National Horse Show Next Month...

The 67th edition of the Del Mar National Horse Show is scheduled for Thursday, April 19 through Sunday, May 6 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds Arena. The Del Mar National Horse Show continues to be among the most respected, distinguished and popular equestrian events on the West Coast, if not the entire nation. Consisting of three distinctly different equestrian disciplines — Western, Dressage, and Hunter/Jumper — the Del Mar National represents the best in competitive opportunities for world-class equestrians and is unrivaled in its entertainment appeal for everyone. 

“The difference between ‘good enough’ and ‘top of the line’ can make or break a reputation and a career," said Kenny Baker, Equestrian Manager. "The Del Mar National Horse Show management remains committed to continually improving the facility to accommodate the comfort and safety of horses, riders, and spectators. Upgrades started with the&... (more)

Don't just watch the race at Del Mar, buy a horse ready to roll from Barretts at the track...

A new Thoroughbred sale is scheduled for this summer in Southern California. Barretts, in cooperation with Del Mar, plans to conduct the auction of horses in training in the racetrack's paddock July 22. The date falls on the first Sunday of Del Mar's 2012 meeting.

“Our goal is to get horses from outside the state of California to run at Del Mar and participate in Southern California’s racing program,” said Barretts general manager Kim Lloyd in a Feb. 27 telephone interview. “We want to continue to address the horse inventory shortage in Southern California and this is a way to do that. It (the sale) will be held immediately after the day’s last race at Del Mar and it will be a lot of fun. Another aspect of the sale will be to introduce the racing public and new owners to the auction process. It will give people a chance to buy a horse and get into racing immediately. It’s kind of preliminary how we are going to market it, but we’re looking for it to be something we can hopefully do annually at Del Mar and grow it as we go along.”

The target number of horses for the sale is 30. Barretts management wants to recruit runners at a variety of competitive levels, from claimers to stakes winners, according to Lloyd.

The total “probably won’t be less than 30, but it could be a little more,” Lloyd said. “What we’re really looking for are horses that will be eligible for Del Mar’s ‘Ship and Win’ program, which was very successful last year.”

The program, which is scheduled to be renewed in 2012, paid $1,000 to the owners of horses that had made their last starts outside of California and had not competed in the Golden State within six months. Owners of out-of-state horses also received a 20% bonus based on the prize money their runners earned in overnight races in their first starts at Del Mar. The Thoroughbred Owners of California participated with Del Mar in implementing the program.  

Lloyd didn’t completely rule out offering horses based in California in the Del Mar auction.

“If it was a special circumstance, we would consider it,” he said. "It's not part of our criteria, but we are flexible even though our goal is to bring horses in from out of state."

Recruiting efforts for the Del Mar auction will begin in earnest following Barrett’s select sale of 2-year-olds in training March 5.

“While we’re working on our May sale (of  2-year-olds in training), we’ll be working on our paddock sale at the same time,” Lloyd said. “We’ll be traveling and spreading the word. There are big outfits that need to off-load some horses, but they really don’t want to be in the claiming game. This will be a way to move those horses along and we’ll get some horses that can come to Del Mar and run immediately. I think it will be great.”

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WE'RE THE REAL DEAL AND SHOWING YOU THE GOOGLE ANALYTICS FOR THE LAST WEEK. IF YOU'RE A SITE VISITOR: THANK YOU AND FEEL FREE TO PATRONIZE OUR ADVERTISERS. IF YOU'RE A LOSING COMPETITOR: TOUGH LUCK. IF YOU WANT TO GET THE WORD OUT: WE'RE HERE FOR YOU. CALL!

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW TO ADVERTISE ON THIS SITE OR PARTNER WITH US, EMAIL AT 92067FREEPRESS@GMAIL.COM.

STATS FEB. 15 TO FEB. 21, 2012:

Ah-Ha Rancho Santa Fe News

www.AhHaRSFNews.com

ABOUT US:

-  Born out of a desire to bring daily journalism coverage to Rancho Santa Fe, and surrounding communities, Ah-Ha Rancho Santa Fe News was launched in June 2010.

-  Ah-Ha RSF News is one of the top community journalism sites in the nation and is the top in per capita page views.

- Founder, Dan Weisman, is a fellow at Knight Digital Media Center, University of Southern California, Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, where he, and leading online experts, fine-tuned the groundbreaking Ah-Ha RSF News model.

• The communities in our coverage area are highly sought after by advertisers because of their appealing age and income demographics. The majority of our readers are college educated, professionals and have a greater amount of disposable income than other areas reached by the big dailies.  

BENEFITS OF ONLINE ADVERTISING

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Occupy This: Eight Protestors Marching From Del Mar, Calif. to Delmar, Del. or thereabouts...

#OccupyWalk

The Occupy Walk is a National March starting at San Diego, California February 11th, walking across the United States taking a southern route to bypass winter in the first months of the walk. They plan on meeting up with people from other Occupations, groups who plan their own route to meet up with the national march, and anyone in any town that wants to walk for the cause. This walk will help promote the Occupy cause by drawing attention to the injustices that were first presented by the Occupy Wall Street Movement in 2011. Roll tide...

The group was scheduled to spend Monday night at a home in Leucadia and Tuesday night in Oceanside. They had hopes of reaching the Temecula area by sometime Wednesday night.

Members of the Occupy movement have launched a coast-to-coast walk that will bring them through North County and Southwest Riverside County, it was reported today.

A group of eight walkers ---- some from Occupy San Diego and some from Los Angeles ---- left Sunday from San Diego, and by noon Monday had reached Del Mar, publicist Nan DiGiovanni said.

They plan to walk to Washington, D.C., staying with host families along the way, DiGiovanni said. She did not have an estimated time for when they are expected to arrive at their destination, but said walkers are inviting people to join them along the way.

Beyond arranged stays the first few nights, the walkers are looking for backyards to camp in, DiGiovanni said.

People wishing to host them can submit information to the group's website at  http://occupywalk.org/.

The Occupy movement began with protests against corporate greed and quickly spread across the nation. Occupy events have been held regionally, including ones in Encinitas and Oceanside.

San Diego gas prices HIT NEW LOWS while reaching new seasonal HIGH, HIGHER, HIGHEST PRICES...

(EDITOR'S NOTE; WE HAVE ADDED A LOWEST GAS PRICE WIDGET TO THE MARGIN TO HELP IN THE QUEST FOR CHEAPER GAS.)

The average price of a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline in San Diego County rose today to its highest amount since May 24, increasing 1.2 cents to $4.071.

The average price has risen for 26 consecutive days and is 20.3 cents more than one week ago, 34.2 cents higher than a month ago and 50.9 cents more than a year ago, according to figures from the AAA and Oil Price Information Service.

The average price has risen 31.4 cents over the past 26 days, including 2.5 cents on Sunday.

Analysts have cited increasing oil prices and the closure of some refineries that supply California customers as reasons for the rising gasoline prices.

Crude oil costs account for two-thirds to three-quarters of the price of a gallon of gasoline, according to Tupper Hull of the Western States Petroleum Association, a trade association representing oil companies in six western states.

THIS JUST IN FROM CHARLES LANGLEY, SAN DIEGO UCAN.ORG FUEL TRACKER. FOR MORE VISIT HERE...

 In the last 48 hours, gas prices in San Diego have surged by nearly 10¢ a gallon. At $4.07 a gallon, San Diego's gas prices are the highest on record for any February in County history, including the year 2008, when gasoline prices hit an all-time record high of $4.64 a gallon on June 13, 2008. This trend is paralleled by a a national average of more than $3.54 a gallon, which is also the highest price on record.

Since last Monday, San Diego prices have increased 17.6¢ a gallon.

According to a report published in Businessweek last Wednesday, two major Southern California refineries have shut down for maintenance in order to comply with State and Federal clean air mandates.  These annual shutdowns are famous for causing shortages and price spikes.  Every spring, refineries must change their gasoline formulation to accommodate seasonal changes in air quality. The summer blend is more expensive to produce and requires a shutdown of the refinery. Refiners must then buy their fuel on the "spot market."

How the spot market affects your gas prices

When a refinery shuts down, it will often buy the fuel it needs from other refiners, who sell it for cash on the spot.   This is where the term "Cash on the barrel head" and "cash on the spot" come from, and it is where the term "spot market" originates. 

Spot fuel is surplus fuel.  In San Diego, there are a large number of gas stations that sell surplus fuel at deep discounts. These stations are the independents that aren't affiliated with a major brand such as Chevron, Shell, Arco, etc.  Normally, unbranded independents are the most competitive players in San Diego's retail gas market. Usually, an unbranded station will charge as much as ten or twenty cents a gallon less for its gasoline than a brand-name competitor.  Brand name retailers, on the other hand, must pay a predetermined "rack price" for their gasoline, which is almost always higher.

Because the unbranded stations are intensely competitive, they tend to force the prices down. But right now, surplus gasoline is hard to find.  On Thursday, we reported that average retail price in San Diego was $3.96 a gallon, but our estimate of the price an independent dealer must charge to break even was $4.06 a gallon, which is more than many brand names stations are charging as their retail price.  This phenomena, where unbranded dealers pay more for their gasoline than brand-name dealers is called a "rack inversion," and in our experience, rack inversions are always accompanied by higher gas prices on the street.

TOM CHINO RULES!!! Del Mar Fairgrounds Board St. Valentine's Day Massacre..Shame on the Bashar Al-Assads on the Del Mar Fairgrounds Board...

ON THE TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS OF TOM CHINO, A FIGHTER FOR FULL DISCLOSURE OF DEL MAR FAIRGROUNDS MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES AND END TO UNETHICAL PRACTICES.

"It is my personal hope that at some point the Board will pursue the reform agenda that I feel is critical to the long term well being of the district. Under the present circumstances, however, I feel it is best for me to step off the board, and I offer this memo as my resignation effective immediately. I have been considering my position as a board member and I was finally able to discuss my situation with the governor's office this morning and they are respecting my decision."

-- Tom Chino resignation e-mail 2/14/12

(Photo above: Tom Chino, r, with Trey Foshee, one of the many celebrity chefs who flock to his Rancho Santa Fe farm for world renowned fruits and produce.)

We don't follow the machinations of the 22nd District Agricultural Association District AKA Del Mar Fairgrounds, Board due to its longstanding record of corruption and below-board dealings with no public oversight allowed. Don't care because it is a cesspool of personal gain for some of those so-called protectors of the public interest and, frankly, the 99 percent, have been powerless in this case to date.

This nine-member board controls a megamillion dollar enterprise including use of the facilities by the San Diego County Fair, Del Mar Thoroughbred Club racetrack as well as ownership of golf, equestrian and exhibition facilities. The Fairgrounds alone is valued at more than $120 million. Directors are appointed by the governor to four year terms and don't get paid, above the table anyway.

However, we did note with interest and great enthusiasm a deus ex machina thrown in the mix by Gov. Jerry Brown last year to try to right the listing Fairgrounds ship. And that was Tom Chino, probably the most stand-up, forthright guy on this or any other planet. Chino is a guy who fights for you and me, and that's not even going into his world-class, renowned vegetable farm and farm stand.

Highly educated, and motivated by his devotion to our community, Chino had his work cut out for him as he went to battle for us against the power of the entrenched 22nd District Agricultural Association District management and enablers on the Board. He tried to let some sunshine into this board's obscenely private dealings and quasi-public meetings. (That group has so much liigation they discuss behind closed doors it would be ludicrous, if it were not obscene.)

Chino let everybody know about state investigations that revealed what everybody knew but could not say aloud: Board members allowed Fairgrounds employees to be paid for unused vacation time. Board members, their friends and associates, received lots of free fair passes and perks, as well as who knows what else in the form of influence peddling and sundry as-yet undisclosed activites.

For all Tom Chino's  defense of you and me against the special interests that have controlled Fairgrounds management for years, all he got was hassles and even implied legal threats over absolutely nothing, i.e. consulting his personal attorney on a Fairgrounds issue. That attorney represented the San Dieguito Joint Powers Authority, which was suing the Fairgrounds over creepy and unpopular expansion demands. Oh, snap.

The Chino family has a long history of standing for the people around here. Losing Tom Chino from the Fairgrounds Board is a sad day for us, but who can blame him. He was like the Free Syrian Army against Bashar Al-Assad's thugs. They may have all the weapons -- for now -- but Chino has something more powerful on his side -- The Truth.

SHAME ON THE FAIRGROUNDS BOARD. Show your solidarity for Tom Chino. Visit Chino Farm today and power to the people.

San Elijo Conservancy WANTS YOU to be a decent docent. Deadline Sept. 16 - Sign up today!

                                San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy  Docent Class of 2010

San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy is looking for a few good --no, make that GREAT! -- docents.

These guides help people make the most of their hike, pointing out the nuances and history there missed by many. 

The San Elijo Lagoon Conservancy is ooking for a few good volunteers to serve as nature ambassadors. A comprehensive training program will prepare docents to lead interpretive walks for school and scout groups, as well as for weekend visitors and other community groups. Previous interpretive experience is not required.

“I think we’re all a little nervous at first,” said Elizabeth Venrick, a retired oceanographer who donates her time to the conservancy as a volunteer docent. “Every tour I do I... (more)

July Real Estate Sales Not So Hot:Rancho Santa Fe Down 26.7 Pct. Solana Beach Down 71 Pct...

Buyers acquired fewer houses in July in North San Diego County than in any July since the first Reagan administration, according to data from the San Diego County Assessor. Rancho Santa Fe 92067 had a median sales price of $2.25 million with 11 units sold in July, a 26.7 percent drop in sales. However, home prices rose in 92067  about 23 percent. Solana Beach 92075 was even worse, a disaster actually. Only two  home sold in July, down 71.4 percent  for an average price of $881,000. Del Mar? Cardiff? No change with seven single-family detached homes dold at Cardiff and six at the home of Carson Palmer, Del Mar.

Prospective homebuyers in July worried about national and international economic problems, from a potential U.S. government default to European debt to high unemployment, real estate agents said. Buyers who did enter the market bid low on houses attempting to score deals.

Meanwhile, some sellers decided to wait it out for better prices. Yet others decided to rent their houses instead of selling. But it all added up to a historically slow July.

"It was rough," said Fred Bradley, a Rancho Penasquitos broker. "July isn't supposed to be rough, but it was."

The 721 houses sold in July in North County were the fewest since 1984, down 11 percent from June and 8.7 percent from last July. Rancho Penasquitos, Rancho Bernardo, Rancho Santa Fe and Carmel Valley sold 35 percent fewer homes in July than in July 2010.

Normally, summer is a real estate agent's busiest season as people try to make purchases and move before school starts.

The median price fell to $425,000, down 5.3 percent from June and 7.6 percent from July 2010, according to the assessor records.

"I think there's a lot of folks right now that are really concerned about the global economy," said Brian Westre, a Rancho Bernardo broker. "Anytime markets are rocked, they start to worry about their own job."

Overall, North County foreclosures in the first half of the year are at their lowest since 2007; mortgage interest rates are well under 5 percent; and the median price of $425,000 is at the same level it was in 2002, or 33 percent off its 2007 peak.

But prices may be too high for local buyers: Many tried to get deals with low offers.

"The buyers, by and large, are waiting for prices to go down, and sellers are waiting for prices to go up," Bradley said. "We're stuck in the middle."

Some sellers are choosing to rent their houses instead of selling. The house rental market is hot, as credit-troubled residents still need somewhere to live.

"Rents are pretty good. A lot of people are renting their property out; if they have the equity, they do it," said Sharon Johnston Mead, a Vista broker. "I'm not having any trouble renting mine, knock on wood."

SAINTS ALIVE! Drew Brees and the Saints visit with Del Mar jocks and ponies Sunday...

Who is going to make it to the practices in Oxnard? Saints practice today through Friday. 4-6:30 pm PDT at the Residence Inn By River Ridge Fields - all practices are open to the public!

Enjoy!

Mexican 'Luxury Cinema' Cinepolis Making Over Del Mar Highlands Entertainment Exerience..

Cinepolis at Del Mar Highlands costs A LOT, in the $14 to $18 range. However, it is an advanced movie entertainment venue concept first applied in Mexico. Here go three local takes on the subject. I can;t comment personally because THERE'S NO WAY IN HELL I'M GOING TO PAY $15+ FOR MOVIE TICKETS, PLUS MORE FOR FOOD AND DRINKS. Sorry, that's not happening no way no how, but these guys have been there , done that and want to share a few thoughts on the subject at hand. -- Dan Weisman

Cinepolis doesn't look like a typical movie theater. Dave and Kris Litvak, patrons of the new cinema in San Diego, say it's more like a chic hotel.

Before the building was renovated, "it looked like a horrible kind of movie theater," Dave Litvak says. Now, he says, "it's modern, and it's elegant."

The lobby floors are dark hardwood, and there's an art gallery. General Manager Antonio Garcia points to people sipping cocktails at the bar.

"We have... (more)

Del Mar’s Gourmet Food Truck Festival Bring More Than 40 Trucks Together On Aug. 20...

Date- Saturday, August 20, 2011

Hours- Noon to 6:00 p.m., Gates open at Noon;mLocation- Seaside Concert area, West of grandstand.

First annual Gourmet Food Truck Festival. Enjoy a variety of some of the hottest eats in Southern California as 40 gourmet food trucks with real chefs serve their eclectic bests, all in one location, from noon to 6 p.m. Free admission to the Food Truck area with paid racetrack admission of $6 for adults. Children under 18 are free. Other activities include: Live thoroughbred horse racing; 30 Beers on tap including Ballast Point, Green Flash, Pyramid plus a large selection of wines; live band- Flock of 80's, handicapping seminars; Family Fun Day in the Infield- Free activities

 For a list of all the trucks participating, go to GOURMET FOOD TRUCKS 

(For much, much more on local food trucks refer to Esther Rubio-Sheffrey's Nug's Food Truck Chronicles HERE...)

Foodies throughout the county are tingling with anticipation because the biggest food truck festival ever to take place in San Diego is only a few days away. The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club (DMTC) will host its first annual Gourmet Food Truck Festival on Saturday, August 20 from noon to 6 pm.

Forty-four of Southern California’s hottest food trucks will gather to compete for your appetite, and admission to the food truck area is free with paid racetrack admission. This means that for as little as $3 (Diamond Club members) you get access to a large and eclectic array of options that span from breakfast to dinner, and even dessert.

“Food truck festivals have been very trendy in L.A. and we felt it was a good time for us to put something together,” said DMTC Promotions Manager Chris Bahr, adding that they maxed out the space in order to include as many trucks as possible. Many of the trucks, like Nom Nom with almost 20,000 fans, have gained large followings due to exposure on Food Network TV shows and other popular media outlets with an emphasis on food.

For example, Fresh Fries, which features fries in just about every style, including dessert fries, has received high compliments from Adam Richman, host of “Man vs. Food Nation.” Rumor has it that Richman may even take part in a burrito-eating contest on Saturday, held at the White Rabbit truck, the first Filipino truck to hit the streets of L.A. Many contenders from the first two seasons of “The Great Food Truck Race” hosted by Chef Tyler Florence, will also be in attendance, and they include: Devilicious, Lime, Nom Nom, and Crepes Bonaparte.

“There are several trucks that look really interesting,” Bahr said. “If you look at the list every kind of food you can imagine and want will be available in one location. You just cannot go wrong. Many traditional food truck items have been revamped with gourmet ingredients, yet it is very inexpensive. The average purchase is between $5 and $7, for fabulous and often organic food.”

Roxana Javadi, part owner of Fresh Fries recommends patience and has this advice for new and expert foodies. “Everyone is going to wait in line for a ridiculously longer time than they may be used to. So if you want to taste a little bit of everything, split up and get multiple orders for everyone in your group and share it all family-style!”

Whether you heed Javadi’s advice or not, be sure to bring plenty of cash because not all food trucks accept credit and debit cards. What follows is a brief description of each truck, with a link to individual websites so you can start teasing those taste buds.

San Diego Food Trucks

Asian Persuasion: These fast-food inspired creations represent Asian fusion at its best. Chinese, Japanese, and Korean influences can been seen in everything from their FOB Tacos and Vegetable Chow Mein, to their Bangkok Sliders.

Bitchin Burgers: Made from organic grass fed beef and topped with organic produce from local farms, these burgers are tasty. Options include the Chipotle Gouda Burger with Bacon, which comes with chipotle aioli, smoked Gouda, lettuce, tomato, and grilled onions; and The Black n’ Blue Burger, featuring blackened spices, blue cheese, lettuce, tomato and balsamic grilled onions.

Chop Soo-ey: Chef Deborah Scott of Little Italy’s Indigo Grill is the mastermind behind these Asian fusion creations, that include items like the fried shrimp taco with jalapeno-pineapple slaw or the Kahula Pulled Pork, served on onion roll, with apple cider slaw and an onion ring.

Corner Cupcakes: These ladies serve up freshly baked-from-scratch cupcakes in a variety of flavors like Red Velvet and White with Raspberry Butter Cream Frosting, plus they make giant cupcakes too!

Devilicious: Simple and sinfully good creations like their most popular item the Butter Poached Lobster Grilled Cheese, with big chunks of fresh lobster, and the BBBLT, tons of bacon topped with a fried egg.

Flippin Pizza: Get 18’’ custom pies and favorites like the Bronx with pepperoni, sausage, onions, black olives, green peppers, mushrooms and garlic; or single slices and appetizers like garlic knots or pepperoni bites.

Food Farm: Using all local and seasonal ingredients, this husband and wife team adds a culinary touch to standard truck favorites like their Grass-Fed Sliders served on a Hawaiian roll with mustard marinated onions and blue cheese, or the Soyrizo chili fries with beans, tomato, cilantro, cheddar and soyrizo.

Kal-bi-Q: Korean and Mexican fusion, featuring tacos, burritos and rice bowls with choice of marinated rib eye, spicy pork, or chicken with cucumber kimchee.

Mangia Mangia Mobile: The city’s first gourmet Italian truck, serves up tradition food featuring pastas, Paninis and salads with fresh salmon, cage free chicken, and farmer’s market tomatoes.

Miho Gastro Truck: Uses fresh, local, and thoughtfully sourced ingredients to create hand crafted street food that is affordable. Menu changes daily, but features staples like the Bloody Mary Burger, made with grass fed beef, blue cheese, wax pepper, and green beans.

Opera Caffe Mobile: “For the love of food” is their motto, and this team uses the same high quality, fresh ingredients, and passion that has distinguished Opera Caffe restaurant located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, to bring traditional Italian dishes to San Diego’s streets.

Street Eats: A gourmet truck that features items such as Ginger-Soy Braised Short Rib and Chicken Vera Cruz Burrito on its menu. All of their culinary creations are inspired from around the globe and priced under $10.

Super Q Food Truck: With all-American BBQ elements from North Carolina, Texas and St. Louis, this truck claims to have the best hickory smoked BBQ this side of the Mississippi! The slow hickory smoked BBQ is prepared at Kaminskis BBQ & Sports Lounge in Poway and transported all over town.

Sweet Treats: With a sleek and hip truck painted to look like a 1950s Hot Rod, these guys are equipped to hold over 2,000 ice cream bars along with gourmet cupcakes, brownies, cookies, chips, and drinks.

Two for the Road: It is American comfort food with a twist. Each week they have a few regional specials like New England Lobster Rolls, Miami Mojito Chicken Sandwiches, Seattle Salmon Burgers, or Captain Crunch Crap Cakes.

The Gathering Spot: Common and ordinary street foods we all know and love are turned into extraordinary culinary creations. From TJ-style tacos to bar-style sliders, their goal is to make you happy while striving to continuously rock your palate with street food that impresses.

L.A. & Orange County Food Trucks

Bacon Mania: Nothing says good all-American man food like bacon. This changing menu features options that include main dishes, sweets, and appetizers like the “Bacon Ball Trio” – bacon-wrapped bites of Mac’n Cheese, Petite Filet Mignon, and PB&J on crust-less Wonder Bread.

Brats Berlin: Gourmet German bratwurst served in traditional flavors as well as spicy Cajun and Chicken with Jalapeno and Onion, all topped with a variety of toppings from sauerkraut to sweet peppers. They have Belgian Fries too!

Buttermilk: Are you too busy to make the most important meal of the day, or simply crave breakfast after a long “fun” night? Chef Gigi Pascual makes his own buttermilk pancake, waffle and donut batters for creations like red velvet chocolate chip pancake bites, cake donut holes, Hawaiian breakfast sliders, and fried chicken served on a buttermilk biscuit with house made cinnamon waffles.

Crepes Bonaparte: Named Gaston by its owners, this crepe truck provides French crepes on the go. Breakfast crepes like the “Wake-Me-Up Special” includes egg, mozzarella, onion and pesto and dessert crepes like “Big Banana Man Banana” features caramel and whipped cream.

Dogtown Dogs: It is a sophisticated variation of traditional hot dog favorites with innovative spins, like the “Morning Commute” a hot dog wrapped in crispy, hardwood smoked bacon and topped with a fried egg.

Fresh Fries: Served in a cone, you can have the fries naturally cut, curly or even choose sweet potatoes, with plenty of spicy and savory toppings like curry or garlic mayo, and wasabi ketchup. Fancy fries, like the “Fiesta Fries” feature green chili guacamole with sour cream and their “Peanut Butter Cup” features sweet potatoes with nutella and peanut butter.

Fry Smith: Treated as the main dish and not as a side, these French fries are topped with culinary creations like the all-beef chili flavored with chocolate and beer or kimchi and heirloom pork under gooey cheddar cheese. Chefs also focus on using humanely raised ingredients like Jidori chicken and cage-free eggs.

George’s Greek Truck: George’s Greek Café has been serving Greek food in the heart of LA for more than a decade, and now they have gone mobile too. Made fresh daily, the Mediterranean contemporary menu emphasizes healthy and local organic ingredients.

Great Balls on Tires: Known by its fans as G-BOT, this truck serves meatballs and other savory balls of food served like sliders with unique toppings. Aside from the traditional meatball, options include the “IncrediBall” made with ground Kobe beef, or the “Ballywood” featuring Garam Masala chicken.

Grilled Cheese Patrol: Try a variety of grilled cheeses on wheat or French bread, like “The Not Guilty” (pepper jack cheese with a blend of sautéed mushrooms, carrots, zucchini and sliced red onions) or “The Gas Chamber” (sliced roast beef, chili, sharp cheddar, and red onion).

Kabob n’ Roll: A large selection of vegan and vegetarian items that are fresh, healthy and delicious, served alongside authentic Egyptian chicken, beef, lamb and shrimp dishes. Popular dishes include falafel, eggplant dip, and Zatar pizza.

Lardon: Bacon, bacon, and more bacon. Every menu creation features bacon in one form or another, like the Lark Brownies with bacon nutella spread, and the chicken wings covered in bacon hot sauce.

Lime: This is crisp, refreshing, California Beach cuisine. Signature items include crispy gnocchi, carnitas fries, and a Janes Addiction Quesadilla with prosciutto and asparagus, and the Ultimate Taco features pork that’s been marinated for 10 hours!

Lobsta Truck: With New England imported lobster and bread, eating at this truck is like visiting a lobster shack from Maine without leaving California. In addition to lobster rolls, other menu items include crab rolls, New England clam chowder, Cape Cod chips, and fresh squeezed lemonade.

Lomo Arigato: Second generation Japanese American and chef, Eric Nakata creates Peruvian style fries, fried rice and noodles with tri-tip, chicken, or tofu, and tomatoes, onions, cilantro, soy sauce, and red wine.

Ludo Truck: Jonathan Gold is an award winning chef and Frenchman with 13 years of training at multiple Michelin 3 star-rated restaurants. On board his first food truck, he has created the most succulent fried chicken that is prepared over three days, and served with homemade sauces, perfectly crisp fries, lavender honey biscuits, and freshly chopped slaw.

Naan Stop: Authentic home-style North Indian food meets the sandwich. Naanwiches featured fresh naan used as a wrap, and stuffed with classic Indian spiced meats, such as tandoori chicken, kabobs and lamb, sautéed onions and peppers, fresh spinach leaves and different chutneys. Side items include samosas and masala fries.

Nom Nom: With almost 20,000 fans, this popular food truck serves 12’’ sandwiches and tacos inspired by traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Made to order, the food is healthy, quick, affordable and loaded with local ingredients.

Slapyo Mamatruck: Get your soul food fix, with favorites like fried chicken, catfish, po’ boys, seafood gumbo, jambalaya, greens, cornbread, peach cobbler, banana pudding.

Sweets Truck: Self-described as a daily reminder that life is sweet and life is good, this mobile bakeshop and gourmet coffeehouse is loaded with the best-of-the-best from LA’s professional bakers, pastry chefs and coffee roasters. Signature items include red velvet cookies, cupcake shooters, brownies, a variety of cakes in all sizes.

Tapa Boy: Loaded with secret recipes passed down by their grandmothers, these people serve authentic Filipino dishes like Tocin, caramelized, tender chunks of pork, with a special vinegar sauce.

The Boba Truck:  This mobile tea and coffee brewery uses an exclusive process in order to brew each of their more than 30 options as they are ordered, to ensure freshness and to keep the antioxidants intact. All options are served either hot or cold.

The Flip Truck: A variety of sliders on daily baked bread with local Artisan cheeses that feature All-Natural Red Angus Beef from Montana, American-Style Kobe Beef from Hawaii, Wild-Caught Pacific Ocean Ahi, All-Natural Jidori chicken, and the freshest organic or local Farmer’s Market produce.

Vesuvio LA: Traditional Italian food with a few surprises. Items like the Rice Balls, a breaded and deep fried mixture of rice, diced salami, parmesan cheese, eggs, salt and pepper, with a mozzarella core are among the appetizers, pasta and sandwich options.

Vintage Longboards Ice Cream: Brought to you by surf lovers, this ice cream is created with passion and timeless recipes that combine rich ingredients to create mouthwatering flavors like Cookies ‘n Cream, Mango and Strawberry.

Waffles de Liege: Unlike the more commonly known Belgium waffle, Liege waffles are made from rich dough infused with Belgian pearl sugar that gives Liege waffles its signature caramelized look and taste. Try it plain or with a variety of toppings.

White Rabbit Truck: Owner Michael Dimaguila states his original fusion cuisine is not your typical Filipino food. His creations are made from scratch and blend elements of American and Mexican cuisines with his favorite Filipino childhood foods. Signature dishes include the Sisig Burrito, White Chocolate Champorado, and a variety of Macarons.

Find your favorite truck easily with the Gourmet Food Truck Festival map available online.

Bonnie Russell On: Dumanis’ continued reluctance to prosecute inactive attorney P. Gregory...

Bonnie Dumanis’ continued reluctance to prosecute inactive attorney Patricia Gregory remains a mystery to those aware of Dumanis’ preference for being handed evidence by crime victims. This makes Dumanis’ latest refusal to prosecute an open and shut case against an about to be disbarred attorney, more than a little strange.   

But first, a brief history on internet crime

A decade ago, then San Francisco columnist Reynolds Holding, wrote The State Bar should Crack Down on California Lawyers” in a column featuring one of California’s worst attorneys, Ron Lais.  The column stated State Bar response to client complaints was sluggish at best, considering the bar had ten years worth of complaints regarding the Ron Lais "performed."  Eventually though, the State Bar forced Lais’ resignation, until he paid his now former clients restitution.

Lais promptly filed bankruptcy, which immediately discharged the State Bar’s restitution order.  Lais then promptly incorporated Child Custody Legal Network and continued offering legal services online as an International Child Custody Consultant, (and sued me four times for warning potential victims not to use him).  The Orange County DA charged Lais with double-digit felony counts regarding the Unauthorized Practice of Law online, and Lais went to prison for a while.  (He's now out and touting himself as an International Law Professor on Twitter.) 

But Lais got me thinking as the problem of non-attorneys or former attorneys practicing on-line has increased.  Most recently in San Diego.  But at least there is some good news. 

The first being the State Bar is now acting a little quicker, and the second being an easy solution to prevent the public from being duped online by former attorneys with a cash and moral problem.  More on that later, as the original problem remains.

San Diego’s blind eye to unscrupulous, former attorneys

San Diego North County family law attorney Patricia Gregory is now listed on the State Bar site Ordered Inactive – Not Eligible to Practice Law.”   

The back story is Gregory had dipped her hands into the trust account of her client, Luwain Ng, to the tune of 80k.  Gregory later admitted the money was gone and made arrangements to repay Ng.

Plans went awry. Nine months later Ng had still not been paid in full. Eventually Ng complains to the State Bar.  This prompts Gregory to fire a snarky email to Ng in which Gregory advises she will discontinue interest payments, before ading as if she was somehow a victim,

“If you wanted to punish me you have succeeded.  I am destroyed.  You have a $20,000.00, a ridiculously low legal bill and my obligation to pay $80,000.00.  I have nothing.  Seems a bit unfair, no?  But you did get your revenge.  Hope it was sweet.” 

Gregory’s  website remains active, announcing:  CARLSBAD DIVORCE ATTORNEY representing clients in divorce, custody, support, and domestic violence cases in San Diego County. 

The solution to protect the public from those who practice law on-line who shouldn’t, was well received by the State Bar president after it popped into my head last week.  He suggested I mention it to a State Bar prosecutor, who also seemed to like it.  (The prosecutor's email after our conversation indicated he forwarded my suggestion to the intake office.)

As it now stands, since Patricia Gregory refuses to remove her website from the Internet in spite of the State Bar’s repeated requests, Gregory is likely going to face additional charges.

(Interestingly,  Gregory's legal website remains in full working order - including the claim:  “She currently teaches graduate level courses in Business Law and Ethics”).  However, a second problem slipped to the forefront.

The second problem being District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis' tolerance for white-collar crime

In spite of a request from Patricia Gregory’s former client to charge Gregory, District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis refuses to prosecute.  Or say why she won't.  This is puzzling as the case is very straight-forward.  Gregory admitted to her 80k raid on Ng's account; and Ng provided much in the way of proof along with her request DA Dumanis charge her.  

Sound of crickets chirping.

Calls to the DAs office remain unreturned.

The silence of San Diego's District Attorney is problematic as Bonnie Dumanis has spent an enormous amount of tax payer dollars in an unsuccessful effort to have her perceived stalker tried and convicted for writing what Dumanis considered a threatening letter.  This would be months after declining to prosecute Diana Gonzalez’ husband, after he kidnapped and raped Gonzalez.  After which Diana was found butchered to death in a college bathroom.  (Diana’s husband promptly disappeared).

Additionally, after Dumanis’ alleged stalker was acquitted in Riverside County, Bonnie Dumanis received 24/7 law enforcement security for herself.  She then spent time and energy maneuvering to have the guy prosecuted in federal court at additional taxpayer expense. 

The jury deadlocked.

Unfortunately the public receives no such service from San Diego’s current DA and mayoral candidate for a relatively easy-to-prove, white collar crime.

The solution?

As a preventive measure, until Dumanis brings charges against Patricia Gregory, or her site goes dark, Gregory will be listed on the "Do Not Hire” portion of  Familylawcourts.com.

Meanwhile I just received an invitation to join Bonnie for a day at the races on August 28.  I wonder if I should bet on whether Bonnie answers my questions if I go.

Del Mar racing briefs for opening week: Owners given lounge by one Del Mar trainer, TVG, Jim Cassidy...

The largest crowd in Del Mar history of 46,588 turned out Wednesday, July 20, for the opening day card at the seaside oval in Southern California. Attendance exceeded the record set a year ago on opening day when 45,309 were on hand. Total pari-mutuel handle for the opener this year was $13,234,590 compared to the $12,461,600 wagered last year, for an increase of 6.2%. In the day’s feature race, even-money favorite Mr. Commons and jockey Mike Smith rolled to victory in the $112,100 Oceanside Stakes. Outrun in the early stages of the race for 3-year-olds, Mr. Commons, a son of Artie Schiller, circled his rivals on the stretch turn and wasn’t pressured in the final sixteenth as he won by 1 1/2  lengths. Final time for a mile on grass was 1:34.96 (VIDEO). Smith was later arrested on suspicion of DUI during a massive drunk driving "multi-agency" task force traffic net rung around the track during the day resulting in 15 DUI arrests.

  OWNERS GIVEN LOUNGE BY ONE DEL MAR TRAINER

The backside area of most racetracks is not normally the most luxurious part of the facility. Barns are primarily utilitarian, the comfort of the horses and not much else involved.

This summer at Del Mar trainer Doug O'Neill is providing a little bit of luxury for the owners of his horses. An 'Owners Lounge' is now available next to O'Neill's office at the track.

"It can get too tight in here," O'Neill assistant Leandro Mora said recently. "Lots of times we have 10 or 15 owners and their kids and families and we built this thing to keep everybody happy."

O'Neill, the defending training champion, converted one stall next to his office for an 'Owners Lounge' with seating and refreshments. Precautions have also been provided for the visitors from the thoroughbred traffic that goes on.

"Especially at Del Mar, we have owners who want to come around the barn," Mora said. "We have plenty of visitors at Santa Anita and Hollywood Park, but we're used to it and we know what to do there. And we get more here than we do anywhere else."

A large painting of Lava Man decorates the converted stall, though not the one that the millionaire gelding used. The picture depicts Lava Man, 2006 Pacific Classic winner, in the company of ONeill's father and the fathers of the three ownership connections of the champion runner. 

-- The Sports Network

                                         (Photo: Ron Ellis, Simon Bray, Todd Schrupp, TVG Network at Del Mar.)

TVG TO PRESENT DEL MAR RACING COVERAGE

TVG, America’s Horseracing Network, will be the exclusive broadcast network of the 2011 Del Mar race meet, offering live, on-site coverage beginning opening day, Wednesday, July 20.

In addition to airing all the action from the 37-day meet, TVG will serve as title sponsor of Del Mar’s signature event, the $1 million TVG Pacific Classic (gr. I) Aug. 28 The race also is part of the Breeders’ Cup Challenge series, with the winner guaranteed a spot in the $5 million Breeders’ Cup Classic (gr. I).

“Del Mar is home to the best in summer racing and is an unmatched horseracing destination that lends itself to an exciting telecast for our audience,” said Tony Allevato, TVG Executive Vice President.

“TVG’s sponsorship was critical to maintaining the $1 million purse level,” said Josh Rubinstein, Del Mar’s Senior Vice President, Development. “We look forward to partnering with TVG in the years to come.”

Racing will be held Wednesdays through Sundays and on Labor Day. In addition to the TVG Pacific Classic, the meet will feature seven other grade I races – the Eddie Read Stakes, the Bing Crosby Stakes, the Clement L. Hirsch Stakes, the Del Mar Oaks, the Pat O’Brien Stakes, the Del Mar Debutante, and the Del Mar Futurity.

TVG account holders can wager on all Del Mar races at www.TVG.com.

-- Blood-Horse.com

TRAINER JIM CASSIDY READY TO RUMBLE AT DEL MAR OPENING WEEK STAKES RACES

Trainer Jim Cassidy plans to start Oceanside nominee Robbie’s War in an allowance race on turf and Kid Edward in Saturday’s $300,000 Eddie Read Stakes, a Grade 1 over 1 1/8 miles on turf.

The Cassidy team for Del Mar will not feature the multiple Grade  1 winner The Usual Q.T., who is currently turned out, the trainer said. The Usual Q.T. has not started since finishing third in the Grade  2 American Handicap on May 20. “He’s getting 90 days and he’s already gotten 30 days,” Cassidy said.

Kid Edward will be tested in the Eddie Read, which is expected to draw Aggie Engineer, Buenos Dias, Caracortado, Celtic Princess, Jeranimo, Smart Bid, and Victor’s Cry.

Second in the Grade 2 La Jolla Handicap at Del Mar, Kid Edward was second in an optional claimer at Hollywood Park on July 2, his first start since a third in the Grade 2 Oak Tree Derby last October.

Jeranimo has not started since a fourth as the 7-5 favorite in the Grade  2 American Handicap at Hollywood Park in April. Owner B.J. Wright and trainer Mike Pender considered the Hollywood Gold Cup on the synthetic main track on July  9, but opted to wait for the Eddie Read.

“There was no reason to take his favorite surface away from him,” Pender said. “All systems are go.”

Jeranimo won the Grade 2 San Gabriel Handicap over 1 1/8 miles on turf at Santa Anita last December, but is winless in three starts this year. He was third in the Grade 1 Frank Kilroe Mile at Santa Anita in March.

-- Steve Anderson, Daily Racing Form

'Blue Velvet' the David Lynch-like Reality Coronado Murder Plays Out To Be Continued...Coverage courtesy Fox 5 San Diego.

By John Langeler

8:26 p.m. PDT, July 14, 2011

CORONADO, Calif. -- Authorities Thursday said a 32-year-old woman who died at a historic multi-million-dollar mansion in Coronado was found hanging from a balcony by the owner's brother.

At a late-morning news conference, sheriff's Capt. Tim Curran said investigators have not determined if the death of 32-year-old Rebecca M. Nalepa is a suicide or a homicide.

"Because of the unique and bizarre circumstances, it is unclear if this is a homicide or a death investigation," Curran said.

Adam Shacknai called Coronado police shortly before 7 a.m. Wednesday to report finding Nalepa hanging from a balcony at 1043 block of Ocean Boulevard in Coronado, Curran said. Officers found Nalepa lying in the courtyard behind the 27-room manor, Curran said. Paramedics pronounced her dead at the scene a short time later.

Shacknai told investigators that he found Nalepa hanging nude by the neck from a balcony of the main house. Her hands were tied behind her and her legs were bound, Curran said. Shacknai told investigators that he had cut Nalepa down.
 
Shacknai, whose brother Jonah Shacknai owns the mansion, had been staying in the guest house on the estate, and Nalepa, who was Jonah's girlfriend, was staying in the main house, Curran said.

Jonah Shacknai, 54, was not at the estate when the death was reported, Curran said. The captain declined to discuss the executive's whereabouts at the time or in the hours that followed, though he said investigators had been "in constant contact'' with the businessman.

Curran said the owner of the manor and his brother were considered witnesses, not suspects or even "persons of interest,'' the captain said.

Former District Attorney Paul Pfingst visited the scene Wednesday night, but Thursday denied he'd been hired by Jonah Shacknai.  He would not elaborate on whether another member of the family had sought him for legal counsel.

Jonah Shacknai, chief executive officer of Scottsdale, Ariz.-based Medicis Pharmaceuticals, bought the mansion for $12.75 million in 2007, according to the San Diego County Assessor's Office. The estate includes a separate guest house, three kitchens, six fireplaces and a six-car garage. Shacknai also owns a large estate in Scottsdale.

On Monday, a young boy was injured at the mansion in an apparent accident and had to be hospitalized, Curran told news crews. There was no evidence that the incident was related to the woman's subsequent death, the captain said.

"Right now, we don’t see any connection between the two incidents," Curran said at the Thursday news conference.

Neighbors said the injured boy was Jonah Shacknai's 6-year-old son.

Kennel owner Ted Greenberg told Fox 5 he was in the Coronado mansion after the boy was injured.  He said Nalpea called, asking to take care of the family dog.

One of his two ex-wives lives in Coronado, not far from the historic estate, in a house owned by the millionaire.

Private security guards were seen Thursday outside Shacknai and his ex-wife's houses on Coronado.

The mansion was built in 1908 by industrialist John D. Spreckels, who was thought to be the richest man in San Diego in the early 20th century. Spreckels, who died in 1926 at age 72, once operated San Diego's street railway system, changing it from horse power to electricity in 1892, and owned the Hotel Del Coronado for a time, according to the San Diego History Center.

Rosalie Cushman Considers: The Incomparable Grand Del Mar...

There is an ineffable quality about the 249-room Grand Del Mar resort.  Still, like the painter straining to convey the essence of a beautiful woman, I take a stab at describing one of the most remarkable resorts in the San Diego area.  I’ve been fortunate, indeed, to spend some time with both Warren Sheets, Designer for The Grand Del Mar’s exquisite interiors, and Tom Voss, President of the Manchester Grand Resorts Group and have come away from both encounters even more awed by The Grand Del Mar’s creation.  

But let’s go back.  About eight months ago a friend asked me for lunch at one of the resort’s restaurants.  I arrived alone and upon walking into the lobby, my heart stopped.  Well, maybe not stopped but certainly it skipped a beat.  Struck by no ordinary beauty, I was instantly immersed into a Mediterranean cascade of art.  An avalanche!  I felt transported to Tuscany, an immediate and profound mood of old-world excellence and beauty that felt voluptuous, reverent, inviting, and comforting.  Yes, comforting.  It was impossible for me to not be affected.   A staff person asked if I needed any assistance, and upon my telling her “no, I was just meeting a friend for lunch,” the woman discretely stepped back, leaving me to bask in the beauty.

Now let’s go forward.  Upon meeting first Warren Sheets then conversing with Tom Voss I have come to learn many facts about The Grand Del Mar, some of them captivating and all of them, impressive.  In addition, while walking with Warren through the hotel one day I learned of his amazing artistic eye, fusing 16

For example, the columns standing in the lobby are made from cubic stone imported from Verona craftsman, an Italian family who has been artisans for over 300 years.  The carpet Warren selected incorporates his own medallion design that is also threaded throughout the hotel in various locations; on wall coverings, parchment lamps, even grille work.  In stunning Italian tradition, his chosen frescos fix the visitor’s eye on floors, walls, and ceilings.  Warren told me he was “very passionate about designing this place – I couldn’t do it any other way”.   Essentially, he has incorporated the most massive amount of beauty I’ve ever seen in this kind of facility, without it being a museum.  Yet it does not feel formal or fussy; quite the opposite, actually.  Remarkably, the five-star, five-diamond resort is not just beautiful, it is so very comforting.

 Age-old wisdom claims that beauty is therapeutic, healing at its core; that it offers a respite from the grist of ordinary life.  Beauty speaks its own language and at its best, connects us mere mortals to both a primordial yet celestial level.  There seems to be an avalanche of this connectedness in the design at The Grand Del Mar and that is the very thing that creates its’ uniquely comforting quality.  And if that sounds odd, just go there and you will know of which I speak.

Later, when chatting with Tom Voss, President of The Grand Del Mar, time and again he spoke of feedback from guests who repeat, “It is so beautiful here”, a theme that reverberates like an echo in a canyon, right along with the guests who return for subsequent stays.  When guests are asked ‘what they’d like to see changed’, Tom indicates their most frequent answer is “not a thing!”  He also told me they frequently hear guests who, coming to the resort for the first time say, “your website doesn’t do it justice”.  Well, the grace of a place is not subject to translation through electrons always and while a picture can be worth a thousand words, being there can be worth a million.

In addition to its beauty, I was to learn that The Grand Del Mar has an excellent Tom Fazio designed golf course, an elegant Spa, the renowned Addison Restaurant, along with Amaya and M Club dining rooms (my lunch was phenomenal, by the way).  The Grand Del Mar now sports a new Equestrian Center, not to mention the fabulous pools.  The resort is situated beside the 4,100 acre Los Penasquitos Preserve with three and a half miles of hiking trails complete with a naturalist on staff.  And while it is easily accessible to numerous San Diego activities, from the Zoo to the Del Mar Race Track to Sea World or the beach, it is the beauty of the place and retreat-like quality guests come for and return to. 

“It is completely in nature,” Tom Voss tells me.  “It is so beautiful,” the guest comment cards thrum over and over again.  In a turn, Tom says “so many guests don’t ever even leave the grounds,” he confides, almost perplexed.  It seems that between the art-inspired interiors, conscientious and caring staff, fabulous food at a person’s fingertips, why would they?  The place is intoxicating.   For my part, I could so easily set up camp in the Great Room just off the lobby, very near the library, living out the rest of my life there!

It is all so very beautiful. 

For additional information on The Grand Del Mar, visit www.granddelmar.com.  Warren Sheets current projects include two home designs in Rancho Santa Fe.  For additional information on Warren, please visit www.warrensheetsdesign.com.

BOYCOTT THE CITY OF DEL MAR! City's disgraceful parking ticket scam and medical pot harassment stinks! Do not patronize...

BOYCOTT THE CITY OF DEL MAR

Two developments, and revelations, involving the city of Del Mar this week points to more than political incompetency on the part of its political leaders. It also points to moral turpitude.

BOYCOTT DEL MAR. This is the only way to get through to these misguided leaders and some of their supporters.

These two developments are linked by the utterly morally corrupt nature of misguided political agendas. Unfortunately, the entire city of Del Mar is involved in this in a way. And in another way, this is a case of misguided political peons refusing to do what's right rather than something they believe will help them politically.

It's all about MONEY. And stupidity. Surprise.

#1. It was revealed that the city of Del Mar gets more operating funds from PARKING TICKETS than any city in San Diego County and most cities statewide. Almost 4 percent of the city's annual budget came from traffic fines, of which 91 percent were parking fines. That was $653,730, more than Solana Beach, Coronado, Santee and Lemon Grove combined. Only SEVEN of 412 California cities had higher traffic ticket percentages for total city revenues.

#2. City of Del Mar's enlightened leaders decided to take some of their ripped-off-from-you-and-me parking ticket revenue, turned around and sued the the Coast's only medical marijuana dispensary, the 1105 Cooperative, providing comfort and hope for local residents who otherwise must drive to other communities. Despite the wishes of California voters, Del Mar leadership feels it is is best to mess with a legitimate tax-paying business while fostering an illegitimate one in the form of parking ticket scams.

Del Mar leaders are a disgrace. The city is a disgrace.

With the exception of the 1105 Cooperative, we call for a total boycott off all Del Mar activities except for activities at the Fairgrounds. You know, the cool place city of Del Mar leaders claimed they were going to purchase, and used YOUR parking ticket scam dollars to finance a costly exploraion effort.

Merchants or residents who don't want the boycott should put pressure on their so-called leaders to cut back the parking ticket sam program by at least HALF and to end IMMEDIATELY the inhumane attempt to impose their misguided misbegotten woefully poor morals on a worthy and medically helpful service.

For more about the Del Mar medicinal marijuana store visit: http://1105coop.com/

The 1105 Cooperative is a patient-centric licensed cooperative in compliance with California Prop 215 & SB 420.

• 1105 Camino Del Mar
• Del Mar, CA 92014
• 858-792-1105
• info@1105meds.com

ALL A-BORED? Railfanning Surfline, Amtrak and Coaster Trains, June 2011 DEL MAR SOLANA BEACH ENCINITAS...

Train #1...Amtrak #579 blows past Sorrento with Cabcar #6906 leading.

Train #2...F40PH #2101 passes by on the cliffs of Del Mar.

Train #3...Cabcar #2306 leads Coaster #660 through the grade crossing in Del Mar. Pretty good K5LA.

Train #4...Coaster #661 rounds the curve heading towards the crossing with F59PHI #3002 and Cabcar #2310.

Train #5...Cabcar #2308 leads Coaster #662, nasty K5LA horn!!

Train #6...Amtrak #582 heads towards its final stop of San Diego, running right on time. Decent K5LA on F59PHI #458. 

Train #7...Amtrak #589 passes through Del Mar with Cabcar #6953 leading the way. 

Train #8...Looking down on Coaster #663 as it heads towards its next stop of Solana Beach.

Train #9...Now in Encinitas, Amtrak #589 cruises on by with a perfect Shave and a Haircut from the engineer aboard Cabcar #6953.

Train #10...Coaster #663 departs Encinitas station with a nice little horn salute from the engineer on... (more)

San Diego Sheriff's crime report for 6/22/2011 - 6/28/2011: 13 local crimes found....

BONUS COVERAGE !!! SEVENTEEN DEL MAR FAIR ARRESTS JUNE 22-28.

 http://www.crimemapping.com/map/region/northcountysandiego

Follow the link above to view the entire mapping tool...

Type:	Description:	Case #:	Location:	Agency:	Date:
	BURGLARY (VEHICLE) (F)	-	2000 S BLOCK COAST HIGHWAY 101	Encinitas Sheriff	6/27/2011 01:30 PM
	BURGLARY (RESIDENTIAL) (F)	-	300 N BLOCK EL CAMINO REAL	Encinitas Sheriff	6/27/2011 07:30 AM
	PETTY THEFT(All Other Larceny) (M)	-	900 BLOCK VIA MIL CUMBRES	Solana Beach Sheriff	6/26/2011 06:15 PM
	SIMPLE BATTERY (M)	-	2200 BLOCK SUMMERHILL DRIVE	Encinitas Sheriff	6/26/2011 06:00 PM
	VANDALISM ($400 OR MORE) (F)	-	4S RANCH PARKWAY / LONE QUAIL RD	San Diego County Sheriff	6/26/2011 05:00 PM
	GRAND THEFT (All Other Larceny) (F)	-	W CLIFF STREET / PACIFIC AV	Solana Beach Sheriff	6/26/2011 04:00 PM
	PETTY THEFT(All Other Larceny) (M)	-	2300 BLOCK SAN ELIJO AVENUE	Encinitas Sheriff	6/25/2011 02:00 PM
	VANDALISM [$400 OR LESS] (M)	-	100 N BLOCK EL CAMINO REAL	Encinitas Sheriff	6/24/2011 12:01 AM
	ASSAULT W/DEADLY WEAPON OTHER THAN FIREARM OR GBI FORCE	-	2500 BLOCK LONE JACK ROAD	Encinitas Sheriff	6/23/2011 07:11 PM
	TAKE VEHICLE W/O OWNER'S CONSENT/VEHICLE THEFT	-	1500 BLOCK JUNIPERHILL DRIVE	Encinitas Sheriff	6/23/2011 04:17 PM
	TAKE VEHICLE W/O OWNER'S CONSENT/VEHICLE THEFT	-	2000 S BLOCK COAST HIGHWAY 101	Encinitas Sheriff	6/23/2011 03:00 PM
	BURGLARY (VEHICLE) (F)	-	2200 BLOCK CAROL VIEW DRIVE	Encinitas Sheriff	6/23/2011 12:30 AM
	BURGLARY (VEHICLE) (F)	-	2200 BLOCK CAROL VIEW DRIVE	Encinitas Sheriff	6/22/2011 12:00 PM

DEL MAR FAIR RELATED ARRESTS

Type:	Description:	Case #:	Location:	Agency:	Date:
	PETTY THEFT(All Other Larceny) (M)	-	21ST STREET / CAMINO DEL MAR	Del Mar Sheriff	6/26/2011 05:00 PM
	BURGLARY (VEHICLE) (F)	-	2900 BLOCK CAMINO DEL MAR	Del Mar Sheriff	6/26/2011 03:00 PM
	PETTY THEFT(Purse Snatch) (M)	-	2200 BLOCK JIMMY DURANTE BOULEVARD	Del Mar Sheriff	6/25/2011 10:00 PM
	BURGLARY/UNSPECIFIED	-	2200 BLOCK JIMMY DURANTE BOULEVARD	Del Mar Sheriff	6/25/2011 09:15 PM
	SIMPLE BATTERY (M)	-	700 E BLOCK SOLANA CIRCLE	Solana Beach Sheriff	6/25/2011 09:05 PM
	VANDALISM ($400 OR MORE) (F)	-	100 N BLOCK CEDROS AVENUE	Solana Beach Sheriff	6/25/2011 08:30 PM
	BATTERY WITH SERIOUS BODILY INJURY	-	2200 BLOCK JIMMY DURANTE BOULEVARD	Del Mar Sheriff	6/25/2011 06:55 PM
	SIMPLE BATTERY (M)	-	2200 BLOCK JIMMY DURANTE BOULEVARD	Encinitas Sheriff	6/25/2011 06:55 PM
	PETTY THEFT(Mot Veh Parts) (M)	-	500 BLOCK VIA DE LA VALLE	Solana Beach Sheriff	6/25/2011 06:00 PM
	BURGLARY (VEHICLE) (F)	-	15000 BLOCK BLK EL CAMINO REAL	San Diego County Sheriff	6/25/2011 04:00 PM
	BURGLARY/UNSPECIFIED	-	800 BLOCK DEL MAR DOWNS ROAD	Solana Beach Sheriff	6/24/2011 10:00 PM
	TAKE VEHICLE W/O OWNER'S CONSENT/VEHICLE THEFT (F)	-	2400 BLOCK JIMMY DURANTE BOULEVARD	Del Mar Sheriff	6/24/2011 08:30 PM
	GRAND THEFT (Theft From Mot Veh) (F)	-	2200 BLOCK JIMMY DURANTE	Del Mar Sheriff	6/24/2011 02:30 PM
	BURGLARY (COMMERCIAL) (F)	-	1500 BLOCK CAMINO DEL MAR	Del Mar Sheriff	6/23/2011 11:15 AM
	BURGLARY (VEHICLE) (F)	-	3000 BLOCK CAMINO DEL MAR	Del Mar Sheriff	6/23/2011 10:30 AM
	GRAND THEFT FROM PERS (Pocket-Picking) (F)	-	2200 BLOCK JIMMY DURANTE BOULEVARD	Del Mar Sheriff	6/22/2011 08:20 PM
	TAKE VEHICLE W/O OWNER'S CONSENT/VEHICLE THEFT (F)	-	600 BLOCK VIA DE LA VALLE	Solana Beach Sheriff	6/22/2011 04:30 PM

DEL MAR RACING THOROUGHBRED CLUB – OPENS WITH THE ONE AND ONLY TRULY FABULOUS HATS CONTEST...

When: Wednesday, July 20

Where: Plaza de Mexico

Time: 11:30 a.m. to  3 p.m.

Del Mar Racing Thoroughbred Club – Opens with The One and Only Truly Fabulous Hats Contest

Hats that win cash at Del Mar? Yes! Del Mar offers more than exciting racing events by the beach. One of its special event days includes, "The One and Only Truly Fabulous Hats Contest”.

The opening day of the Del Mar is celebrated in style and more than 40,000 race fans gather to enjoy racing, betting, and, all the summer festivities there are to offer at the coastal race course.

The most fabulous and fashionable event of them all is "The One and Only Truly Fabulous Hats Contest”. People can sign up for the contest, which is presented by the San Diego Hat Co. and completes the tradition at Del Mar, which takes place on the opening day.

The entrants, who will participate in the contest, will solely be judged on their hats, the creativity, and, style of their hats. There will be a panel of judges to choose the winner.

To make it more exciting "The One and Only Truly Fabulous Hats Contest” has four categories for this contest that are highlighted by the nature of the hats people wear. Category number one is the Best Racing Theme, Category number two is Funniest, or, most Outrageous, Number three is the most Glamorous and number four, Is Best Flowers/All Others.

The winner of this competition receives cash money of $300 and a $100 gift certificate the runner up gets $200 and the contestant in third place gets prize money of $100.

This will be the 17th running of the "The One and Only Truly Fabulous Hats Contest”, which got started in 1995. Julie Sarno is the inventor of this fabulous event, which takes place on the opening day, of Del Mar, and said that after watching the Royal Wedding it seems as if no dress is complete without a hat. She herself has been involved in two hat events in the Royal Wedding. Since 1995 Julie Sarno coordinates this event at Del Mar every year.... (more)

Jake DeRaadt's Last MOO-RAH: Harmony Grove to Lemoore to Del Mar Fair Odyssey of Cows...

Since there’s no place like home, Jake DeRaadt came down from Lemoore with just enough cows to save the day for this year’s San Diego County Fair dairy exhibit. It's the last 'moorah' for the effervescent Harmony Grove native. Satisfied others will take up the challenge in future fairs, and wanting to devote more time to family matters, this is DeRaadt's final year leading the cornerstone dairy exhibit. 

“This is going back home for me,” said DeRaadt, 49. “June is fair month. I’ve been involved with this for 35 years. They got plenty of people milking in the valley at valley fairs. You’re preaching to the choir ‘cause many up there know the ag industry. Hardly anybody is left down here in San Diego.”

The DeRaadt family were dairy mainstays for decades in Harmony Grove, between Escondido and San Marcos. Dairy production once was big business in North County with well over 100 dairies as late as the 1970s producing the equivalent of $80.6 million in Year 2000 dollars. County milk production fell to an all-time low of $12.4 million in 2003.

But, changing times ended the local dairy industry for all practical purposes. With urbanization and environmental challenges costing local dairies too much money and energy, DeRaadt joined the migration north to the Central Valley in 2000 where he could expand his herd and work in an environment more amenable to dairy production.

“I came down two summers ago and was kind of disappointed hearing that zero dairy cattle were going to be at the fair,” DeRaadt said. “There were just no cows here. I talked to (livestock coordinator) Kim Jacobson and said  if we can get the dairy display going, I’ll get you the cows if you get someone to milk them. I just can’t be at the fair the full three weeks.”

Deal made. DeRaadt brought kids Arie, 15; Eileen, 16; and Katrina, 18, back home for the fair where they tell other kids on 4H Club barn tours about raising cows. Dairy Council of California educators hold several milking demonstrations a day – with DeRaadt’s imported cows. 

All three DeRaadt children take unique roles at the fair. Katrina, 18, creates visual displays; Eileen, 16, loves working with the school children; and his youngest, Arie, at 15, seems to share especially in the joy of showing the cows. He's even conducted a few milking demonstrations for smaller crowds. "It's a family tradition," said Arie. "Cinnamon rolls in the morning, our cousins coming out to watch on Fridays and Saturdays ---- it's just a lot of fun. "And you can hear Grandma in the back of the stands cheering us on, too," he added with a smile.

It’s all more than good for DeRaadt who combined a healthy dose of nostalgia for his old Escondido home with the practical business of acquainting urban youth with their farming roots. As if to punctuate this point, DeRaadt flew the family dairy’s old sign  – Eden Vale 2531 Country Club Rd., Escondido – above his Lemoore, Kings County, cows at the dairy barn.

“The reasons we’re here are multi-pronged,” DeRaadt said. “It’s a lot of fun and a great experience for the kids. We’re also educating the public that for the most part is fairly urban or far removed from the farm.”

 DeRaadt’s dairy cows have saved the day for this important, and historical, element of the county fair, said Efrain Valenzuela, Southern California education manager for the Dairy Council of California who has been conducting the daily milking demonstrations.

”Jake DeRaadt has been very helpful as far as bringing the animals to use,” Valenzuela said. “It’s harder and harder finding animals to bring to the public. He’s been there for us when cows have gotten sick. We called him and he said sure, he’d bring another one up. It’s tough finding cows to use.”

The industry has all but disappeared as land became more valuable and stringent environmental rules regarding cow manure and clean water took effect. Most dairies were forced to close long ago or to relocate to Central California. In 1948 and 1949, San Diego County Farm Bureau Executive Director Eric Larson said, milk was the main agricultural product here. That was supplemented later by beef, then avocados, and since the mid-70s, nurseries. “It’s just the reality of what happened,” Larson said. “I think it’s great we still have a few dairies here, but I don’t see anyone opening a new one. “You have to be fairly large in the dairy industry, and to get larger they had to move out of the county.” Only four dairy farms remain and one milk processing plant. They owners of the farms for the most part keep a low profile since the milk they produce is processed out of the county and not marketed locally.

The milking demonstrations have proven quite popular with dozens of students and even adults at each show.

“You get that wow factor,” Valenzuela said. “There’s nothing like seeing that little squirt come out and it lights up their faces.  Ag is slowly moving out little by little, so we’re happy to bring the farm to them.”

Part of that farm at the fair is the barn tour, this day conducted for a second year by Nicolina Prestininz, a Fallbrook 4-H member. She tells a group of elementary school students that only six dairies remain in San Diego County. Arie and Eileen DeRaadt show off their cows, explaining how they care for the animals.

“How many of you think chocolate milk comes from a brown cow?” Prestininz asks. Several students raise their hands. Jake DeRaadt laughs. That’s what he’s talking about.