WINTER TREAT: SCALLOP CEVICHE
Printer-friendly version Recipe courtesy of Tom Gatch, author of Hooked on Baja November 10, 2010 (San Diego) — During the winter months, there always seem to be an abundance of those tasty little bay scallops on the market. While they are a bit too small to cook individually, bay scallops are generally used effectively in appetizers, pastas and perhaps most deliciously, in Mexican-style ceviche. Here’s a simple recipe that is bound to get your guests smacking their lips! Ingredients: 1 lb Bay Scallops (from the shell or freshly defrosted) 4 Fresh Limes 1 Fresh Lemon 1/2 medium Red Bell Pepper, Fine Diced 1 medium Red Onion, Finely Diced 2 Serrano (hot) or Jalapeño (milder) Chilis; seeded and minced 2 Cloves Garlic, finely minced 1/4 Cup Chopped Fresh Coriander 3 Tbls. Olive Oil, Extra Virgin 1 big pinch of whole, dried oregano, freshly crushed Salt to taste Method: Cut zest from 1 of the limes and lemon in long strips. Squeeze 1/2 cup lime juice and 1/4 cup lemon juice. Combine citrus juice and zest, scallops, peppers, onion, chile, garlic, coriander, oregano and oil in a mixing bowl. Marinate at room temperature, stirring occasionally, for 1 hour. Refrigerate covered for 1 hour. Remove zest from ceviche and season to taste with salt, if needed. Garnish with julienned lime zest. Enjoy with crunchy tortilla chips and your favorite beverage! Printer-friendly version
SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHT: VIEJAS CASINO TO BROADCAST PACQUIAO-MARGARITO
Printer-friendly version WBC Championship Title Fight November 11, 2010 (Alpine) – Viejas Casino will be airing a live broadcast of the WBC championship title fight featuring Manny “Pac Man” Pacquiao and Antonio “The Tijuana Tornado” Margarito on Saturday, November 13. The highly-anticipated 12-round super welterweight championship fight will be broadcast live starting at 6 p.m. from Dallas Stadium, where a crowd of 70,000 is expected. At Viejas Casino, it’ll be like a front row seat for guests who can view the event from high-resolution flat screen TV monitors located throughout the casino. There will also be food and drink specials in the casino during the event. Pacquiao (51-3-2, 38 KOs) has won 12 straight fights, but Margarito (38-6, 27 KOs) has a significant size advantage and a reputation for being able to take a punch. Visit www.viejas.com for information on all Viejas Casino special events, promotions and more. Printer-friendly version
WENDY STEWART NAMED NEW GROSSMONT COLLEGE DEAN
Printer-friendly version Former Miramar College administrator will head counseling, enrollment services November 10, 2010 (El Cajon)– Outside of her professional career in higher education, Wendy Stewart is a self-taught songwriter and musician who dreams of turning on the radio one day to hear one of her pieces being performed by a famous recording artist. When not composing music, Grossmont College’s newest dean is singing the praises of California community colleges and the ways they embrace a diverse student population. The former transfer center director for San Diego Miramar College began her new post last week as dean of counseling and enrollment services at Grossmont College. As dean, Stewart serves as liaison to instructional faculty and works collaboratively with them to ensure that student needs remain a top priority. She is in charge of admissions and records, counseling, academic and personal counseling, registration, student records, veterans, enrollment verification and more. Stewart said she sought the position at Grossmont College because of the greater opportunity to introduce higher education to a student population as varied as it is sizable. A former counselor in the University of California system, Stewart said she found advising community college transfer students to be rewarding because of the challenge of helping a wide mix of students identify and meet their academic goals. “Having worked in community colleges for over five years now and beginning this new position, I know this is the ideal place for me to work and know that my heart lies in continuing to work in community college environments,” she said. “My vision for future growth in student services technology includes the use of online assessment tools and updated programs that are both efficient and easy to utilize for storing program and student data.” As transfer center director at Miramar College, Stewart piloted the office‘s use of web-based surveys to collect assessment data. Grossmont College President Sunita “Sunny” Cooke said the college is thrilled to welcome Stewart to her new role. “Her focus on providing students the best assistance possible by utilizing technological resources is an excellent fit for Grossmont College,” she said. “Her collaborative approach and her commitment to serving students reflect a solid administrative strategy. I am confident Wendy will be a strong addition to the Grossmont College team.” Stewart, who worked as an academic adviser at UCSD for seven years prior to her 2005 hiring at Miramar College as transfer center director, has maintained a presence in the classroom as a part-time instructor of counseling education at National University. At Miramar College, she also taught personal growth classes called “College Success and Lifelong Learning” and “Life Skills and Personal Adjustment.” “What I love most about teaching is seeing a student develop as the semester progresses,” she said. “There is nothing more amazing than feeling like you are making a difference in a student’s life, particularly with personal growth, since you have the opportunity to give the student the skills to be more successful in other areas of their life, both inside and outside of the classroom.” In her own area of personal growth, Stewart has written a compilation of songs she hopes to see published one day and is also working on a novel she aspires to see in print next year. She is also active with the Urban League of San Diego County and performs community service on behalf of her sorority, Delta Sigma Theta. A native of Altadena in Los Angeles County, she makes no secret of being a huge Lakers fan, obvious to anyone visiting her office. She smiles broadly as a campus photographer takes a shot of her standing next to a plush replica of a Lakers basketball so large that it nearly covers the top of her desk. A classically trained violinist from childhood, Stewart taught herself to play guitar and to write music, but stagefright has kept her off the stage. “I hope to publish my songs as I wouldn’t be very good at performing, myself,” she said. Stewart holds a doctorate in education/higher education administration from the University of Southern California, a master’s in counseling/marriage and family therapy from San Diego State University and a bachelor’s in literature with an emphasis in writing from UCSD. For more information about Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges, go to www.gcccd.edu. Printer-friendly version
WASTE MANAGEMENT ELIMINATES EAST COUNTY’S PAPER TRAIL ON AMERICA RECYCLES DAY NOV. 15
Printer-friendly version East County Residential Customers Invited to Drop-Off Documents for Free Shredding November 10, 2010 (El Cajon) – On November 15, Waste Management of San Diego will help to eliminate East County’s paper trail with a complimentary document shredding service in celebration of America Recycles Day. Waste Management will offer its shredding service from 1 to 6 p.m. for East County residential customers at the company’s Transfer and Processing Station located at 925 O’Conner Street in El Cajon. “This is a great way to not only safely destroy personal documents, but also protect our environment,” Carl Scherbaum, district manager of Waste Management of San Diego. “The shredded paper will be recycled and transformed into packaging and wood by-products. We are excited to open the doors to our East County residential neighbors and provide them with this convenient and free service.” According to CalRecycle, California is faced with the challenge of managing nearly 14 million tons of postconsumer paper generated annually in the state. In 1997, only 31 percent of that paper was recovered for recycling, with the remainder disposed primarily in landfills. In addition to the complimentary shredding service, residents are invited to drop off other recyclables also from 1 to 6 p.m. at the company’s Recycling Center, which is part of the El Cajon Transfer and Processing Station. Acceptable items include household batteries, florescent light tubes, as well as aluminum, glass and plastic cans. Additionally, e-waste such as TVs, computer monitors, fax machines, printers, stereos and microwaves will be accepted but limited to two items per visit. For additional information about the Recycling Center, visit http://www.wastemanagementsd.com/buyback.asp. As North America’s largest provider of waste and environmental services, Waste Management is on a quest for environmental performance, to maximize resource value and minimize environmental impact. To learn more, visit www.wastemanagementsd.com and www.thinkgreen.com. Printer-friendly version
THANKSGIVING DAY GOLF TOURNAMENT AT COTTONWOOD
Printer-friendly version November 10, 2010 (Rancho San Diego) – Score a birdie this Thanksgiving Day—and no, we’re not talking about a turkey on the table. Cottonwood Golf Course in the Rancho San Diego area of El Cajon is serving up a Thanksgiving Day Shotgun Golf Tournament—complete with buffet breakfast on the lake, green fee and cart for $49. The tournament tees off starting at 8 a.m. For more information, call (619)442-9891 or visit www.cottonwoodgolf.com. Printer-friendly version
WATER-SMART GARDENING FESTIVAL NOV. 13
Printer-friendly version Water-wise, fire-wise and cool-season gardening resources available November 12, 2010 (El Cajon) — In many parts of the U.S., people would scoff at the notion that fall and winter can be prime gardening months. But not in San Diego, with its Mediterranean climate characterized by mild to cool, wet winters and warm to hot, dry summers. The Water Smart Gardening Festival, held at the Water Conservation Garden at Cuyamaca College from 9a.m. to 3 p.m.on Saturday, November 13, 2010, helps San Diegans make the most of the region’s fall-to-spring planting season–and save water at the same time. A potpourri of gardening know-how includes guest speaker Greg Rubin, native plant and fire-wise gardening expert who will present Fire, Chaparral, and Survival in Southern California at 1pm. The talk is based on the same-titled book by fire ecologist Rick Halsey, Rubin’s colleague. Other experts will share their knowledge of vegetable gardening, soil analysis, pest control, and rain harvesting. Rain barrels will be on sale for just $66. The event, now in its fifth year, also boasts the most diverse drought-tolerant plant sale in the County. Vendors will sell shrubs, trees, perennials, succulents and more, making the event one-stop shopping for fall and winter gardening essentials. Music, food and festivities are all part of the fun at the educational event. Admission to the event is a nominal $3, with Garden members and children 12 years and younger getting in free. Workshops and all activities throughout the day are included with admission (unless specified) and parking is free. A complete program is available at www.thegarden.org. Printer-friendly version
THANKSGIVING POTLUCK FEAST AT SACRED ROCKS RESERVE
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery Savor stargazing, a nature scavenger hunt, community bonfire and the bounties of nature—or cozy up to watch football in the clubhouse November 11, 2010 (Boulevard, California) — Sacred Rocks Reserve owners Dimitri and Sharon Courmousis invite you to celebrate at their annual Thanksgiving Family Potluck Feast. “Thanksgiving is all about family and being grateful for the simple, good things in your life,” says Sharon Courmousis. “There’s no better place to connect with family than in nature, where there are few distractions.” Thanksgiving weekend is a great time to experience cold weather camping, adds Courmousis, noting that many people enjoy because of the opportunity to experience seasonal weather. “It’s a good excuse to get cozy by the campfire with a big mug of hot cocoa.” Family activities available over the Thanksgiving Holiday include: • Labyrinth Gratitude Walk at 9:00 AM Thursday 26 November 2009. Meet at the labyrinth and bring the family • Nature Scavenger Hunt for adults and children (rated moderate to difficult) with a prize for the winner • Sacred Rocks Walking Group: 9:00 AM Friday, Saturday & Sunday 27-29 November. Meet at the front office, 30-90 minutes around the Reserve (rated easy to moderate) • Watch football games on the clubhouse TV • Cold weather camping • Stargazing • Community bonfire in the evenings • Thanksgiving potluck feast at 4 p.m. Additional activities nearby include: • Soak in the Mineral Hot Springs at Jacumba Hot Spa • Visit the Motor Transport Museum in Campo • See the Train Museum and take a ride at the Pacific Railway Train Museum • Tour the Desert Towers lookout and see the rock carvings at InKoPah You bring a side dish, beverages, plates and utensils and let Sharon and Dimitri cook up turkey and ham. Step out of the norm and back into nature at this spectacular natural preserve, RV park and campground in rural Boulevard. Special camping rates for RV camping and tent camping this weekend only: Camp Wednesday – Saturday night for only $99 total. Day visitors are also welcome for the Thanksgiving Day Potluck and other activities. For more information, see http://www.sacredrocksreserve.com/index.html. Please RSVP by Friday 20 November 2009 at (619) 766- 4480 or sacredrocks@gmail.com Printer-friendly version
FOOD FOR LIFE: FREE RAW FOODS WORKSHOP NOV. 13 IN ALPINE
Printer-friendly version by Cindy Douglas Cindy Douglas, a certified raw foods educator from Whole Raw Food Now (www.wholerawfoodnow.com), will host a free workshop on raw foods November 13 from 1-3 p.m. in Alpine. The even will feature cooking tips, the latest science, and free smoothie samples. November 10, 2010 (Alpine)–So much of our focus on food is guided by products that are quick, easy, and advertised as nutritious and delicious. Unfortunately, our focus is often not based on what science has revealed are the most critical types of food to provide sustainable energy and healing for the human body. If we were paying attention to the science behind the food we ate, we would definitely be eating less processed and cooked food–and consuming more whole, raw, plant-based food. Science does not, however, advertise with fancy labels, catchy tunes, or movie star endorsements. Science doesn’t even use fancy slogans! Slogans are a great advertising gimmick, but the information is often subjective. For example, “Milk… it does a body good.” I agree, it does a body good . . . if you’re a calf! We are the only species that drinks the milk of another species after we’re weaned. Research indicates that the casein in milk may actually cause significant inflammation in the body, which may then lead to several chronic disease conditions. On the other hand, we won’t find any fancy advertising for a beautiful bowl of enzyme-packed, phyto-nutrient rich salad, yet the amazing effect on the body is truly worth promoting. Let’s look for example, at just one powerhouse in the salad . . . enzymes! Enzymes are biological catalysts: this means that they initiate and speed up the chemical reactions in living things, such as digestion. Without enzymes, it would take several weeks to digest our food, and our muscles, nerves and bones would not work properly. Basically, we would not be living. Enzymes, however, must have the correct shape to do their job. They are made of proteins, and proteins are very easily affected by heat, pH and heavy metal ions. Some researchers compare enzymes to a key in a lock. If the key has been twisted by heat, dissolved in acid, or stuck up with chewing gum, it will not work. This wonderful powerhouse of enzymes that are vital for digesting food, are destroyed by altering their shape during cooking. This destruction of enzymes is believed to be a key factor in today’s rising levels of allergies and chronic degenerative diseases. In fact, heating food to just 118°F for more than 15 minutes destroys all the enzymes. Some enzymes are even destroyed by as little as 105 degrees, which means that they may not survive even light steaming. Enzymes, this dynamo of nature, are just one example of the amazing power of whole food. So, although you won’t find any fancy jingles or Hollywood star endorsements, the simple, whole raw foods that nature provides are worthy of front page advertising! “Tell a friend!” Cindy is a certified raw food educator, specializing in the science of raw food. For information about her next “Introduction to Whole Raw Food” workshop on Nov 13 in Alpine, please visit her website at www.WholeRawFoodNow.com or call 619-726-0408. Printer-friendly version
CHAMBER MUSIC EXTRAVAGANZA: NOV. 13 IN ALPINE
Printer-friendly version November 9, 2010 (Alpine) Artists perform in period costumes and even guests are invited to attend in historical fashions at the Chamber Music Extravaganza on November 13 at 4 p.m. at Christ the King Episcopal Church, 1460 Midway Drive in Alpine. Enjoy the music of Mozart, Brahams, & Schumann directed by Sylvia Lorraine Hartman,featuring the Alpine Chamber Players Piano Quartet with cello, vocal and flute solos, and the Christ the King Singers. Chamber music began in the 18th century and is a form of classical music written for a small group of instruments gathered in a smaller room such as a palace chamber. Tickets are just $20 with senior and student tickets discounted to $15. Included in the ticketed price is a wine & cheese reception with the artists following the concert. Tickets are limited and sold in advance, call today (619) 445-3419 or for more information visit www.ChristTheKingAlpine.org. Printer-friendly version
VIEJAS KICKS OFF HOLIDAY SEASON WITH TREE-LIGHTING FRIDAY–& SKATING AT LARGEST OUTDOOR ICE RINK IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Printer-friendly version Viejas Outlets Center transforms into a winter wonderland with ice skating, Midnight Madness shopping, holiday tree lighting and more SAN DIEGO – November 10, 2010 – The Viejas Outlets Center officially kicks off the holiday season this weekend with a holiday tree lighting ceremony on Friday at 6 p.m. in the park area, followed by premiere of the Legend of the Ice Princess show at 7:30 p.m. in the show court. Both are free to the public. You can also enjoy skating on southern California’s largest outdoor ice rink starting Friday. All the fun is topped off with the traditional Midnight Madness shopping on November 26, featuring super holiday savings at all retail stores. The Legend of the Ice Princess, a holiday favorite, is the story of Crystal, a young fairy princess whose magical powers bring winter to the holiday season amidst amazing pyrotechnics, dancing fountains, lasers and incredible special effects. The Viejas ice rink will be open to the public daily through Sunday, January 2. For $12, skaters will enjoy 90 minutes of skating, which includes skate rental. Visit www.ViejasOutletCenter.com for a schedule and hours. For the avid shoppers, Viejas Outlet stores will open their doors at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, November 26 for the Midnight Madness Sale. All your favorite brand name stores will offer discounts up to 70%. Hours at the Viejas Outlets during the holidays are: Monday – Thursday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., Friday & Saturday, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. except for the following dates: November 26: 12:01a.m. – 9 p.m. Christmas Eve: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Christmas Day: CLOSED (Ice Rink is open 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.) New Years Eve: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. New Years Day: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Located at I-8 and Willows Road, directly across from the Viejas Casino east of San Diego, Viejas Outlets features more than 50 of America’s favorite brand name stores, and is set on 37 scenic acres in the east San Diego County foothills, drawing upon the natural beauty of the surrounding environment, with meandering landscaped paths, natural water features and massive rock formations. Viejas Outlets also feature a variety of eateries, a new bowling center and an interactive water fountain. For more information on Viejas Outlets, visit www.ViejasOutletCenter.com or call 619-659-2070. Printer-friendly version