Out with the Old, in with the New!

Hi all- Changes are a comin'!  I am phasing out the old blog (it's WAY past time), so this blog and the email blasts associated with it will be no more. I will now be getting a new blog up and running on my newly designed site at www.barbaroundthetown.com. I'm sorry that there will be no more email updates, but everything will all be conveniently located on the new page. Thank you so much to Michele Talbot of MTC Web for all the help and conversions. Give her a lookup if you need help with your site. She listened to me and came up with something that was my style and worked for me. Please visit my new site and tell me what you think.

The Wave Waterpark Prepares to Open for The Season Plus Special Events

 The City of Vista’s Wave Waterpark offers two special event days during its first week of its 2019 summer season. On Mon., May 27, The Wave hosts its first Military, Fire, and Law Appreciation Day from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Active or retired military, fire, or law enforcement officers enjoy complimentary admission as thanks for their service. Valid active duty or retired ID must be shown at the gate to receive one free admission for each ID and up to six additional tickets for $9.95 with each valid ID. Dependent ID's are valid for discount admission only.

On Thurs., May 30, The Wave hosts Home School Day from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. with discounted admission tickets for $9.95. Students can present their report card at the gate to receive one discounted ticket for themselves and their parents.

The Wave Waterpark is open daily from May 25 through Sept. 29. Hours vary and are available on the Wave’s website or by phone. Admission is $20.95 for visitors 42” and taller, $16.95 for under 42”, seniors age 60 and over are $13.95, Happy Hour for all heights and ages is available the last two hours the park is open for $9.95, ages two and under are free, military with I.D. is $13.95. Season passes are available for $74 per person, or $69 per person for a family of four. For more information, visit thewavewaterpark.com, or call (760) 940-9283.

More on THE WAVE WATERPARK 

The Wave Waterpark is the City of Vista’s popular summertime attraction featuring a slide tower, flow rider, rip tide slide, floating river, competition pool, and spray park. Open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, the Wave also offers camps, swim lessons, junior lifeguard program, scout programs, CPR and water polo classes, and group and birthday programs. During non-season, the Wave is open for lap swimming and rentals. The Wave is recognized for its extensive safety training programs and safety records. The Wave is a Five Star recognized facility by Star Guard Elite, an industry organization providing comprehensive lifeguard training programs for the waterpark industry.

Taylor'd Skin Studio and The Acne Spot San Marcos for All of Your Skincare Needs

The Acne Spot opened over 7 years ago in the heart of San Marcos, offering corrective skin care and facial services alongside a growing Acne Program.  With the success, they quickly became the place in San Diego for acne-sufferers to go for Clear Skin! They also opened a second location just last year in Temecula. Owner and operator Nicole's history with acne began not as a teenager, but as an adult. After becoming a Licensed Esthetician, she sought out the best treatment for her own acne-prone skin and became a Certified Acne Specialist with the Face Reality Acne Program- the first in San Diego County! She found that she could clear all forms of acne in about 3-6 months- no pills, no doctor’s visits, no harmful medications.  They provide a complete topical treatment plan with products that not only benefit the skin but go to work to eliminate breakouts without all the dryness and discomfort of medical treatments.  They educate their clients on how their diet effects their skin and acne; and educate about lifestyle considerations that could be effecting their skin; they also educate about sun damage and caring for your skin at all ages. The Acne Spot loves to celebrate when their patient's skin clears (a 95% clear rate).

As the business grew, they saw a need to add services that would benefit all clientele.  Their recent renovation and expansion added a whole new service menu and guest experience.  They are now a dual-branded skin care clinic: The Acne Spot and Taylor’d Skin Studio! Taylor’d brings the spa experience to the brand. Their Relaxation Lounge is a quiet waiting area for our Taylor’d clients to decompress and enjoy a beverage and a warm, relaxing neck wrap while they wait for their facial service. Their menu of services includes a variety of treatments for all skin types and skin concerns: aging, sun damaged, pigmented, uneven texture, fine lines, or relaxation and maintenance. Beyond their targeted and results-oriented services, Nicole knows that what makes their business truly special is their team and company culture. It is full of talented, knowledgable and caring Estheticians and Acne Specialists. They are a family of dedicated professionals that care about our clients and their success and I know that passion comes through in each client interaction.

Please look them up for all of your skincare needs!  I also want to thank Taylor'd Skin Studio AND The Acne Spot for being community partners with Around The Town and sponsoring my May 1st, 2019 Super Supporter Giveaway!

Riddle Routes- A Fun, Inventive, New Entertainment Option Hits Carlsbad

I want to introduce you to a newer North County business, Riddle Routes. Started in Bend, Oregon, with three routes, you can now find them in California with routes in Carlsbad, Big Bear and Palm Springs. 

I took the Riddle Route challenge starting my quest in Carlsbad, totally unsure what the experience would be like. Suggested teams are 2-4 people, so we double-dated and made it a team of 4. The routes are designed to be about 2 miles of walking, 2 hours of time with 22 stops. You purchase the package online for $38 (this fee covers the whole team), which I feel is very reasonable and certainly less expensive than going to a movie. Once you pay you are given a link to access your route, using your smartphone to get your clues. 

The whole thing was put together very cleverly, and you can tell the designers of Riddle Routes are teachers. Let’s just say I was thankful for the help of my teammates when the riddle involved math!  As you go from point to point you are looking for specific things, solving riddles and problems and doing a lot of teamwork. We saw some points of interest that we knew about and others that we were learning about for the first time. After you get to each destination and solve your riddle, you’ll learn some fun facts about that specific location or business. So, with Riddle Routes you are having fun, exercising and getting fresh air, working with others, using your brains and learning new things about the area you are in.

We all agreed that it was a lot of fun and interesting as well. I would wholeheartedly recommend that everyone do this with their family or friends. It was a great day followed by a nice dinner in The Village. I did not take pictures (whaaat?) as I don’t want to give away the route. I want it all to be new and fresh when you give it a try.

Does this sound like something you would want to do? For more information and to purchase your Riddle Route go to: http://riddleroutes.com/product/carlsbad-route/.  Be sure to use code: BARB$10 to save $10!

Mother's Day Gift Ideas with Support Local in Mind

Mother's Day is right around the corner and I have a list of gift ideas for you that also support local businesses, makers and venues.

1. You can NEVER go wrong with a candle. My locally-made favorites are Aura Candles and Oceanside Candle Company (available all over town including Metaphor Boutique in Vista, Eclectic Vintage Design and Sea Hive both in Oceanside. They both make beautifully scented soy candles with the very best ingredients. 

2.  Take Mom on a picnic at the beautiful Alta Vista Gardens in Vista. It's so serene and they have tables available for you to use.

3. Sign yourselves up for a makers class at Eclectic Vintage Design in Oceanside. They offer all kinds of crafting opportunities in a group setting. See website for schedules.

4. Grab a gift certificate from one of the many local shops that support local vendors and artisans. Some of my favorites are: Metaphor Boutique, Lotus Moon Market, Sea Hive, Eclectic Vintage Design, Lotus (formerly Leaping Lotus), The Artist Collective at The Succulent Cafe.

5. Take Mom to a show!  Moonlight Amphitheatre and Moonlight Stage Productions have music and theatre options year-round and the setting is phenomenal!

6.  Take Mom out to High Tea at my favorite tea spot, The Grand Tea Room in Escondido!  It's fun to get a little dressed up (if you want), throw on a hat (if you want) and enjoy some of the yummiest and most extraordinary teas around! Louisa will take good care of you!

7. Take Mom out for a meal somewhere that is very quaint- my best suggestions are: Shorehouse Kitchen (Carlsbad),Claire's on Cedros in Solana Beach, The Veranda at Grand Traditions in Fallbrook, Myrtle Creek Botanical Gardens in Fallbrook, and Stratford Court  and Flower Child (sit on the patio) in Del Mar and Decoy on beautiful Lake San Marcos.

8. Grab Mom a pampering gift certificate at Active Mobility Chiropractic Rehabilitation Group. Right now they have a gift card special that runs through May 11th, with special pricing just for moms.   Choose from either a 50 minute massage for $49.50 (reg. $78) or a 50 minute massage,  30 minute stretch therapy and Chiropractic exam/treatment package all for $69.50 (reg. $230).

9. Take Mom on a Walking Food Tour with Carla and Linda's Walking Food Tours. These are so fun and you get to try food and drink from 4 local establishments. 4 routes to choose from- 3 in Oceanside and 1 in Vista. *Use code: barb at checkout to save $10 on each ticket!

10.   This Mother’s Day weekend, experience the sweeter side of Oceanside. On Saturday, May 11, from 2-5 p.m. treat Mom to dessert and beverage pairings at Sweet Stops throughout Downtown Oceanside while you shop for her and make her day. Bring the whole family to this new Eat & Shop Local Oceanside Program tasting and shopping event with a discounted family ticket and enjoy sidewalk chalk fun for the kiddos and sweets while you walk. Tickets, at $20 per adult, $10 per child or $45 for a family pack (for two adults and two kids), are available now at mainstreetoceanside.com

11. Say I love you with a sign from North County Yard Greetings. Lindy will help you find the perfect words to convey how you feel. So fun and different.

12. Do some shopping with local artisans this weekend at Artifact Vista!  It's a vintage fair in downtown, historic Vista and showcases many talented vendors.  Shop 10-4 on Sunday the 28th.

13. Take a mother/daughter yoga class at the fabulous Sugar Sweet Farm. Nothing brings you together more than sharing a laugh together. Such a fun, joyful class in a beautiful setting! *Use code: BARB20 at checkout and save 20% on your registration!

14. Take a cooking class together at Treehouse Kitchen. They have an eclectic variety of class offerings in an intimate atmosphere. Your hosts, Stan and Mary, are the GREATEST!

15. There is always an Spring Arts and Crafts Fair at Bernardo Winery Mother's Day weekend and it's the best. Love the winery and the entire setting. 

The Flower Fields Grace Carlsbad Hillside through May 12th

The Flower Fields are back in bloom and beckoning you for a day of visual enjoyment! Barb's tips:  If you can, go on a weekday for more manageable crowds and parking. Wear your sunscreen, layer for comfort and wear shoes that you don't mind getting dusty and also ones that will take you up and down the dirt hills in comfort.  Please check their website for more information about pricing, hours and special events.

Taste of Vista- Wednesday, June 19th

Taste of Vista has become one of my favorite events to attend each year. Come out with me and experience the 11th Annual Taste of Vista, Wednesday, June 19, 2019 from 5:00pm-8:00pm. Enjoy food and drink from Vista restaurants, breweries, wineries and distilleries, all while enjoying live music scattered throughout the Historic Downtown. The Food & Beverage ticket holders will receive a taste cup. Plan early and scoop your tickets up now.  You can purchase here.

Exciting 2019 Lineup for Moonlight Presents

Vista, CA (February 28, 2019) – For its fourth season of concerts and movie nights, Moonlight Presents will offer an expanded calendar of events at the City of Vista’s Moonlight Amphitheatre, the picturesque outdoor venue located within Brengle Terrace Park. Generously sponsored by Vista-based Dr. Bronner’s, concert packages and single tickets will go on sale Sat., March 9 by phone at (760) 724-2110, online at moonlightstage.com, and in person at VisTix.

“Moonlight Presents was intended to expand the amphitheatre’s offerings outside of our summer season of Broadway musicals,” said Managing Director Colleen Kollar Smith. “Last year, we grew our audience by more than 40 percent over the previous years’ attendance. We are thrilled that our community is embracing The Moonlight as a year-round entertainment destination. With the generous underwriting from Dr. Bronner’s, we are able to offer an eclectic line-up in 2019 which to date is our largest presenting season.”

The line-up:

Classic Albums Live
Friday, April 12, 2019: The Eagles’ Hotel California
Gates: 6 pm
Show: 7:30 pm
Saturday, April 13, 2019: Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours
Gates: 6 pm
Show: 7:30 pm
Ticket Price Range for Each Concert: $15 - $40
Classic Albums Live returns to The Moonlight stage with two ultimate albums, The Eagles’

“Hotel California” and Fleetwood Mac’s “Rumours.” Go back in time with this perfect re-creation of these unforgettable timeless albums. Classic Albums Live has become the ultimate destination for music lovers wanting to hear the greatest albums performed live. Some of the world’s most skilled musicians and vocalists will re-create “Hotel California” and “Rumours” live, note for note, cut for cut, followed by a second act of Greatest Hits from each band. Friday night, enjoy hit Eagles’ tracks like the GRAMMY® winning “New Kid in Town,” as well as deep cuts like “Wasted Time.” You’ll want to return on Saturday to enjoy the thrilling energy and genius of Fleetwood Mac’s hits “Go Your Own Way,” “The Chain,” and “Dreams.” “Hotel California” and “Rumours” will play exactly as you remember on the turntable.

May the Fourth Be With You Celebration!
Saturday, May 4, 2019
Gates: 6 pm
Concert: 6:30 pm
Show: 8 pm
Tickets: $10 & $15

Star Wars: The Force Awakens on the big screen along with the hottest cantina band, The Millennial Falcons, on stage before the movie.

Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers
Saturday, May 11, 2019
Gates: 6 pm
Show: 7:30 pm

Ticket Price Range: $15 - $40

Hailed as one of the most exciting live acts on the road today, Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers are musical beacons of the Southwest fueled by witty and insightful lyrics, crunching guitar riffs, a dynamic rhythm section, and tequila. Bridging the gap between rock and roll, roadhouse Americana, and the sound of the southwest, Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers have carved out their own path for more than 15 years. They’ve traveled the world, sent eight albums to the top of the Billboard Internet Sales Chart, launched an annual music festival in Mexico, started their own line of ultra-premium tequila, and built a global community of music-lovers and peacemakers – all the while remaining 100% independent.

The PettyBreakers
Saturday, May 25, 2019
Gates: 6 pm
Show: 7:30 pm
Ticket Price Range: $15 - $40
The PettyBreakers is the nation’s premiere Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers tribute band. The band accurately re-creates the sights, sounds, and concert experience of a Tom Petty concert. You will hear all of the classics that you know and love: “American Girl,” “Break Down,” “Free Falling,” “Mary Jane’s Last Dance,” and more. If you are a Tom Petty fan, you will not want to miss this evening that honors the music of the legendary American musical icon.

Movie Night: Back to the Future
Friday, May 31, 2019
Gates: 6:30 pm
Show:  8:00 pm
Tickets: $5 & $10

Hop in your DeLorean and enjoy the quintessential 80s movie coming to The Moonlight! 80s themed pre-movie fun for the family.

John Waite
Saturday, July 6, 2019
Gates: 6 pm
Show: 7:30 pm
Ticket Price Range: $22 - $57
70s and 80s rock icon John Waite and his band will perform his catalogue of hits from his 40-year career as a solo artist and his time as lead singer of the bands The Babys and Bad English. His catalogue of hits includes the #1 worldwide hit “Missing You,” The Babys’ “Isn’t It Time,” and Bad English’s “When I See You Smile,” which rank amongst some of his biggest international hits and are still heard on radio today. Others songs include “Tears,” “Change,” “These Times Are Hard for Lovers,” “Every Step of the Way,” and “If Anybody Had a Heart.” John Waite’s talent for power ballads and driving arena rock occasionally touched on new wave-styled power pop making him a fixture of the rock and roll scene. John Waite continues to forge his own singularly personal path of celebrating the present while engaged by the promise of the future. The story is far from over for the Lancaster, England-born rock star/balladeer/storyteller who was inspired onto his musical path by blues, soul and country along with a deep connection to the Celtic folk music of his homeland.

Into the Woods in Concert
Saturday, October 5, 2019
Gates: 6 pm
Show: 7:30 pm
Ticket Price Range: $10 - $45
James Lapine and Stephen Sondheim take everyone’s favorite storybook characters and bring them together for a timeless, yet relevant, piece. This one-night-only fundraising concert version of this modern classic brings to life the story of a Baker and his wife, who wish to have a child; Cinderella, who wishes to attend the King’s Festival; and Jack, who wishes his cow would give milk. When the Baker and his wife learn that they cannot have a child because of a Witch’s curse, the two set off on a journey to break the curse. Everyone’s wish is granted, but the consequences of their actions return to haunt them later with disastrous results. With an all-star cast of Moonlight favorites and orchestra, this is an evening you won’t want to miss! This is a co-production between Moonlight Stage Productions and the Moonlight Cultural Foundation. Proceeds benefit the Moonlight Cultural Foundation. Please note: tickets for this performance will go on sale on March 30, 2019.

Movie Night: The Goonies
Friday, October 25, 2019
Gates: 5:30 pm
Show: 7 pm
Tickets: $5 and $10
Bring the family to watch a group of misfit kids who set out to find a pirates’ ancient treasure in this great 80s classic. Goonies themed activities before the movie!

Sweet & Tender Hooligans: The Ultimate Tribute to Morrissey and The Smiths
Saturday, October 26, 2019
Gates: 6 pm
Show: 7:30 pm
Ticket Price Range: $15 - $40
Los Angeles-based Sweet and Tender Hooligans, hailed as the ultimate tribute to Morrissey and The Smiths, have delivered for more than two decades a finely crafted show that pays homage to the legendary singer and British indie band. Performing to sold-out crowds throughout the US, Mexico, and the UK, front man Jose Maldonado channels Morrissey so convincingly that Moz himself has even jokingly taken the stage with the opening line, “Hello, we are the Sweet and Tender Hooligans and I’m Jose.” From their era-perfect style to Maldonado’s Morrissey-inspired coif, the band never fails to satisfy even the most rigorous Smiths purists.

The Doo-Wop Project
Saturday, November 9, 2019
Gates: 6:00 pm
Show: 7:30 pm
Ticket Price Range: $15 - $40
Back by popular demand at The Moonlight, The Doo-Wop Project begins at the beginning: tracing the evolution of Doo-Wop from the classic sound of five guys singing tight harmonies on a street corner to the biggest hits on the radio today. In this epic concert, go on a musical journey from foundational tunes of groups like The Crests, The Belmonts, and The Flamingos through their influences on the sounds of Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, and The Four Seasons all the way to DooWopified versions of modern musicians like Michael Jackson, Jason Mraz and Maroon 5. Featuring stars of Broadway’s smash hits The Jersey Boys and Motown: The Musical, the Doo-Wop Project brings unparalleled authenticity of sound and vocal excellence to re-create — and in some cases entirely reimagine — some of the greatest music in American pop and rock history!

Simon and Garfunkel Live in Central Park Revisited
Saturday, November 30, 2019
Gates: 5:30 pm
Show: 7 pm
Ticket Price Range: $15 - $40
In 1981, more than 500,000 music fans gathered in Central Park to witness the legendary reunion of folk duo Simon & Garfunkel. Award-winning recording artists Lee Lessack and Johnny Rodgers re-create that magical night. With dulcet vocals harmonizing over lilting guitar, you will hear all of the beloved poetic masterpieces that made Simon & Garfunkel famous: “Mrs. Robinson,” “Homeward Bound,” “Scarborough Fair,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “The Sound of Silence,” and many more.

Movie Night: Elf
Saturday, December 7, 2019
Gates: 5:30 pm
Show: 7 pm
Tickets: $10 & $15
Experience the adventures of Buddy the Elf in this modern Christmas Classic on the big screen! Arrive early for a snow play area for the kids and other holiday-themed activities for the family.

Top of the World: A Carpenters Holiday Concert
Saturday, December 14, 2019
Gates: 5:30 pm
Show: 7 pm
Ticket Price Range: $15 - $40
This Carpenters tribute band brings the most authentic versions of the original duo’s music to the stage. No doubt you will be singing along as they perform holiday hits along with Carpenters favorites like Close To You, We’ve Only Just Begun, Rainy Days and Mondays, Yesterday Once More, Top of the World, Superstar, and more. Lead singer Debbie Taylor captures the warm tones and contralto range that made Karen’s voice so unique. Sit back and enjoy as Debbie and her band take you on a nostalgic journey through the Carpenters Christmas album and other hits while sharing some of the backstories behind the music.

The previously announced 39^th summer season of Moonlight Stage Productions at the Moonlight Amphitheatre includes Mel Brooks’ “The Producers” (June 12 – 29), Roald Dahl’s “Matilda The Musical” (July 17 – August 3), “West Side Story” (August 14 – 31), “Victor’/Victoria” (September 11 – 28). Subscriptions go on sale March 9 followed by single tickets on March 30.

Keys Creek Lavender Farm Guest Cottage- A Delightful Local Getaway

Maybe you have been to the very quaint Keys Creek Lavender Farm in Valley Center during Lavender season or participated in an off-season event like a soap making class, brunch or high tea. Did you know that you can also join in the occasional organized retreat (or create your own), and you can also rent the on-site guest cottage or a yurt (they have 6 total) on airbnb? The cottage is elegantly appointed in a French Provential meets farmhouse blend. There are no televisions to distract. When you come here it is about relaxing and recharging. I enjoyed a stay with friends where we chose to hike, wander the grounds, take photos, read and play games. 

The kitchen is utilitarian with only a small dorm fridge, microwave and sink. I recommend bringing food in and/or going to Yellow Deli which is just down the road a mile and a half. Upstairs you will find a spacious master suite decorated with delightful charm. Downstairs there is a pullout queen sofa bed that can sleep two extra guests. There is a tiny bathroom inside and also outdoor toilets available. Showering is strictly in the clean country air, and there is even an antique bathtub on the deck, if you dare. 😉 In the warmer months you can take a dip in the pool but it is not heated in the winter. A hot tub is available for your relaxation and pleasure year-round. There are many decks and seating areas to enjoy the lovely property and views. At night there are all kinds of lights illuminating the property and the many noises of the country including frogs, crickets and farm animals. It’s really quite magical. We really enjoyed our stay.

If you want to get away from it all without having to travel far, this is your place. Book it for your next getaway at: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/14691489?guests=1&adults=1

Newer Restaurant/Eatery Buzz Around Town

Newer Restaurant Buzz Around Town!

Recently closed:

Ohana Cupcakes (Oceanside), Little Cakes (Carlsbad location only), Pisco (Carlsbad), Tea Lane tea house (Fallbrook), Solace & the Moonlight (Encinitas)

Vista

Culichi Town- Opening soon. Sinaloa style Mexican food. This is a chain. They offer very interesting food items- do not expect typical Mexican offerings. Please check out the menu to see for yourself.

Wildwood changed hands and adjusted their name as well, now it is going by Wildwood Crossing. New owners, new chef, updated interior.  Live music lives on. Check their schedule online. Great menu and reviews are coming in solid, including mine.

Cat & Craft- a delightful coffee shop that offers treats and savories and has a cat adoption sanctuary located in the same building. Make an appointment ($12) to hang out in the cat room for an hour while you sip your coffee.

Shak's Mediterranean Bistro- Brought to us by the folks of the former Armenian Cafe in Vista. Serving fresh Mediterranean, Lebanese foods. This is one of my faves! I recommend the gyro plate!

Dog Haus- Delish dogs and burgers served on toasted Hawaiian rolls. Lots of fun and interesting toppings! Messy, messy goodness.

Carlsbad Ranch Market- Small specialty market with fresh foods and local produce, some hard to find items and a hot bar, soup and salad bar and a small restaurant with some great happy hour offerings like burgers and craft beers. I can't wait to try it!

Que Tortas!  This is a very casual sandwich shop that serves their signature torta sandwich on a house-mad delicious bolillo roll. They also serve soup, a delicious fruit bowl with loads of varied fruits, acai bowls, smoothies, juices and aguas frescas. Locally owned and run. Stop in and tell the owner Martin hello.

Black Rock Coffee at 823 E. Vista Way.

Oceanside

EXHALE- by the people who brought us the very popular Local Tap House (LTH). Serving innovative wood-fired cuisine.

Blade 1936- Coming soon. Originally was supposed to open in October of 2018 in the former Blade-Tribune historic building in Oceanside. They will be serving modern Italian food.

Dija Mara-  Acclaimed Balinese fusion offerings.

Tambo Cafe- Peruvian Cafe from the folks that brought us Panca Peruvian.

Mangia e Bevi- Ocean Ranch is the location of this restaurant brought to us by the San Diego famous Tore Trupiano Family (Dominic's on the Harbor). Tore is using recipes influenced by his Grandma and bringing them to life with new inspiration. This is not your traditional Italian in the sense that you are used to it. Come in and ask Tore why.  I highly recommend the Chicken Saltimbocca!  So good!

Pacific Coast Spirits- Arriving this spring is a new distillery and restaurant that will serve farm-to-table style food and small batch spirits in their Coast Highway location.  It will be a big one with 12,000 square feet of space.

Senor Grubby's- Freshly opened an additional restaurant on Tremont St. in Oceanside.  Get your fill of  "California Grub" as they call it there...their twist on Mexican influenced foods that you love.

FUGU Taiyaki- Deserts and rolled ice cream. 420 Mission Ave, Oceanside.

Carlsbad

Toast Gastrobrunch- A delightful brunch spot brought to us by the Sammy's Woodfired Pizza people. Takes the location of former Sammy's, then Pisco.

Clara- Fresh, market-driven foods and signature cocktails. Delish!

Jeune et Jolie- Serving upscale French food.

Harumama Carlsbad- Noodle house with some unusual menu items. I love their udon noodles!  Adorable savory or sweet character buns.  2958 Madison Street

Windmill Food Hall- This artisan food hall will host many food and drink vendors in the old TGI Fridays building across from the Carlsbad Outlets. Construction hit a few snags and they are running behind schedule.

Eureka!- Currently scheduled to open at the end of April in the Bressi Ranch area of Carlsbad (off Palomar Airport Road), Eureka is bringing brews and designer burgers to you and expanding their popular chain.

Richard Walker's Pancake House- Another expanding family restaurant has opened their doors at Square at Bressi Ranch in Carlsbad. From 6:30AM to 2:30PM, they are serving up some of your favorite breakfast items, for sure specializing in pancakes. They are perhaps best known for their fresh-baked apple pancakes. They also have Swedish pancakes, omelettes, crepes and a few lunch items. No reservations are accepted.

Texas de Brazil- Enjoy Texas de Brazil, where Brazilian Churrasco blend w/ the spirit of Texas hospitality.

Handel's Ice Cream- They serve 50 flavors each day (rotating menu) and make the product on-site daily with yummy mix-ins. 2825 State Street in Carlsbad Village.

San Marcos

My Yard Live- Coming soon.  This will be a large-scale, family-friendly dining and entertainment hub.  They will offer live music, food, drink, games and activities for all ages. Scheduled to open late June.

Fallbrook

Prohibition Brewing Co Station- For right now, it's just alcohol offerings, but hopefully food will be added in the near future.  

Meet The Jacklins of Eclectic Vintage Design in Oceanside

 

 

Meet Kim and Rick Jacklin of Eclectic Vintage Design in Oceanside!  Three years ago they purchased a building on Mission that sold used furniture. Their intent was to paint the beautiful furniture there and offer workshops to customers to teach them how to paint their own furniture. Today, you can find them in their brand new, beautiful location at 4259 Oceanside Blvd where creative classes are offered and you can find the goods of dozens of local crafters and makers, as well as free-trade goods.

 

Rick, a San Diego native and SDSU graduate, wanted to return to North County after he retired from his CPA position in Northern Idaho. His wife Kim is a retired bank executive.  She has an extensive background in commercial and residential design. As an artist herself and with a large community of artists surrounding her, she understands the compelling artistic drive and passion to create. She also understands first-hand the frustration with the process of getting crafted goods to the marketplace. She believes that with so many cheap imports flooding our markets today, that our talented artisans and makers are often overlooked. Rick and Kim's goal is to help local vendors and the local community find each other! Their desire is to create a unique retail experience which is beneficial for both the artist and the shopper. Through various workshops and creative parties, they hope to help people enjoy their own  talents and learn new ones too.  Stop by soon and see what they are all about!  Tell them that you learned about them on Around The Town! Remember, when you shop at stores like Eclectic Vintage Design, you are doing the important and rewarding work of supporting local artisans and makers as well as local small business!

Setting Up a Household Emergency Kit

It's always good to be prepared for an emergency, so I just wanted to get everyone thinking about being prepared, just in case.  There are many situations that require an emergency kit for peace of mind and emergency preparedness ranging from big storms to wildfires. When an emergency situation strikes, time is of the essence. Find a sturdy, portable container or tote and assemble the following:

• 3 days worth of food and water, and can opener if needed
• first aid kit
• battery powered or hand crank flashlights, radio and batteries if needed
• duct tape and trash bags for sheltering (see www.ready.gov for details)
• regional maps
• items for personal sanitation or specific family needs (hygiene, pet supplies, etc.)
• medical masks to protect against air-quality issues and infections
• small amount of cash in case ATM's are down (5 days worth is ideal)

Remember to keep your kit updated and fresh. Check twice a year or more if needed. Has your power gone out? not a bad idea to unplug appliances and electronics, turn off heating/cooling systems to avoid damages that come with power surges once the electricity is restored. Leave on one lamp so you will know when power has been restored. It is a good idea to make a family emergency plan that includes meeting places (one nearby and one further away). Keep a copy of this plan in your kit. Teach all family members to text. Even if phone lines are down or backed up, texting will usually go through. Being prepared = peace of mind.

The Importance of Adding Local Theatre to Your Life

When I was a young girl growing up in the Bay Area, in order to get out of the neighborhoods and onto the freeway, you had to drive past this little old playhouse in the city of Lafayette. I remember the rustic wood shingled building and a sign that had masks on it much like this picture. I always wondered what went on behind those walls. I had no idea. I never met anyone that went to see a production there. I just knew that someday I wanted to find out what it was all about.

Flash forward, (I won’t say how many years 😉) and local theater has become a big part of my life. I’m very thankful that Moonlight Stage Productions, The Star Theatre, Vista's Broadway Theater, productions at local high schools and the former Avo Theatre have pulled me in. I can’t tell you what a treat it is that local theater has become a regular part of my life and something that I value and look forward to. I’ve seen some really amazing shows and I feel like I am greatly enriched because I have. I love that local theater gives local talent a chance to grow and bloom and we all get a first row seat. I also love that they provide so many opportunities to get our young ones involved, both on the stage and in the audience. I would like to encourage you to make local theater part of your life as well if you haven’t already.

Meet Carla and Linda of Carla and Linda's Walking Food Tours

1.  Tell us about yourselves:

 

Carla and I met 23 years ago in Victorville, CA. We have been a couple for 22 years. We have lived in North San Diego County for 16 years. We love food.

2.  What inspires you  about food in north county?

 

The young Chefs are not afraid to experiment with foods. Cheese does go with fish when done properly. I love that I met Chef Darryll (Masters) at Cyclops Farm. He was there because he wanted to feel the dirt from which his veggies were grown.  I love that a lot of the Chefs did other things before they found their calling; Chef Marc (Petite Madeline) was a nurse; Chef Willy (Mission Ave Bar & Grill) trained to be a mechanic.

3.  How did you get your start?

 

When we first moved here going out to the Olive Garden was something special. We now know what real good food tastes like and we will never go back. We want other people in our community to know what good food we have right here in our own back yards. We support local food, chefs and farms. Oceanside had a bad reputation for a long time so the food scene kinda surprised a lot of people. We are happy to be part of the explosion.

3. How does a walking food tour work and how much does it cost?

 

We charge $49 per person. The tours run on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 1:30 to 4:30pm in Oceanside and Saturdays from 1:30 to 4:30pm in Vista as well. We spend about 30 minutes or so at each place so you can get a feel for the restaurant. We do private tours during the week with certain minimums. We walk you around to 4 restaurants and provide all of the food, beverages are available for purchase at the restaurants. We have great relationships with the Chefs/Owners so we get off-menu dishes from most of our establishments. We also give fun facts about the area as well as telling you about the restaurants and Chefs.

4.  What are your favorite parts about running a walking food tour business?

 

The people. We love to share our experiences with others and this is the perfect stage. We are excited about food and love when we can share it with others. We have made many friends. It gives us joy when we have people return to take another one of our other tours.

5.  If someone wants to take a food tour, how they go about that?

 

They get on their computer or phone and sign up. www.shoesandchews.com or Linda's private cell number is: (760) 401 5968. They can use code: fun10 to get $10 off. If you want a private tour you will need at least 4 people and pay full price. You will get to choose what day and which tour...the times stay the same at 1:30 to 4:30pm.

 

 

An Interview with and Tribute to Nancy aka "Farmer Jones" of Alta Vista Botanical Gardens

Nancy, tell me a little about yourself, your background and how you came to work with Alta Vista Botanical Gardens.

I was born in San Diego and raised in Lemon Grove, attended UCSB (with a year in Germany) and earned my teaching credential at SDSU.  I finished my MA in Special Education in 1979. Don and I have been married since 1974; our two sons grew up in North County and have graduated from UCSD and UCLA respectively.  After 28 years in the classroom, I retired from teaching elementary school in Vista Unified in 2006.  I was asked to come to AVBG to help start their Children’s Garden in 2008, I joined the AVBG Board, and “Farmer Jones” ended up as Chairman of the Committee.  We ran a contest to name the Children’s Garden and chose “Bugs, Birds, and Butterflies.” In addition to the existing small Earth Day Festival, we added the Fall Fun Festival in 2009 and are celebrating our TENTH FFF on October 20 this year.  It’s a great experience – creating scarecrows, bobbing for apples, decorating punkins, making crafts, and enjoying the ambience of the Gardens.  Vendors, food, and a plant sale are all part of the Fall Fun Festival experience.  Many student and adult volunteers – and our dedicated Board members – make it a super day!

About how many kids do you filter through your program each year and what brings you the biggest joy working with kids and in the gardens?

After our first FFF in 2009, we started monthly Kids in the Garden classes and still offer them on the second Saturday of the month from 10 am to noon for a low $5 fee; these classes are free for family members.  The schedule is listed on the AVBG website  altavistabotanicalgardens.org .  We also offer field trips for students in local elementary and middle schools, as well as homeschool groups.  We have served 4000 kids in ten years of Kids in the Garden and field trips.  My greatest joy is seeing kids relax, open up, hike to the bottom of the hill and back up, and make discoveries out in nature.

What are your hopes for the future with your program?

I hope that kids and their parents will become more familiar and comfortable in the outdoors, and appreciate the beauty and tranquility of nature.  There’s a BIG beautiful world out there and experiencing it first-hand is a million times better than on an electronic device!  We will continue to offer outdoor experiences and hope to expand programs as more teachers and families discover the Hidden Gem that is Alta Vista Botanical Gardens!

I see you also work with The Woman's Club of Vista. What does that program do in the community and how can someone become involved if they wish?

Membership in The Woman’s Club of Vista GFWC is open to all – women and men! I served as President from 2013-2017 and currently serve as Treasurer.  Our Club is 102 years old and we’re growing with active members who are ready to volunteer!  We work on projects with organizations in the community (such as AVBG, Operation HOPE-Vista, Women’s Resource Center, Gently Hugged, Rancho Buena Vista Adobe, Alabaster Jar, and many others), and we donate supplies and food. We celebrate our Donation Day every May when we donate to organizations suggested and supported by our members.  In June we award scholarships to students graduating from six Vista schools.  Our busy Club has won awards for our projects from our international Federation.  The Club’s website is womansclubofvista.org .  Contact information is in the newsletter which is posted on the website.  All are welcome to visit and join!

What city do you reside in, and what do you love about it?

We have lived in rural Vista since 1987, and we love the open spaces and parks for hiking and nature experiences.  I love the people I am privileged to work with – curious kids, caring parents, and devoted volunteers.  It’s small-town Vista every day, with many opportunities to grow and serve – which is how I fill my days.