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Review: Del Toro's 'Pacific Rim' is Awesome, and That's All It Needs
by Jeremy Kirk
July 12, 2013
You have to admire Guillermo del Toro. The man has turned his love for monsters into a career crafting some of the most fun (Hellboy) and most personally poignant (Pan's Labyrinth) films to come along. His latest, Pacific Rim, is a little flimsy on the poignant side, which leaves plenty of room for fun. They need a lot of room. These monsters are huge. The drama in Pacific Rim leaves something to be desired, but the spectacle and sheer power that resonates from giant, otherworldly monsters doing battle with giant, mechanical monsters blows your mind. It's one of the reasons why the word "awesome" was invented.
But Pacific Rim isn't about the attack from those enormous monsters, the Kaiju, who rise up from some, strange, dimensional rift at the bottom of the ocean. It's not even about mankind's downfall and eventual attack back with those behemoth robots, or Jaegers (pronounced like the awful liquor), under its control. From the beginning, del Toro spins his film the opposite direction from the expected, shows us all of that with news reports and Charlie Hunnam narration, and sets his film 12 years into the Kaiju War. It's like watching the third part of a trilogy without the benefit of sitting through the first two films.
To del Toro and co-writers Travis Beacham's (also story by) credit, we get caught up on most of the characters and events that factor into the big picture. Hunnam plays Raleigh Beckett, a pilot of one of the Jaegers, the Gipsy Danger, who gave up on the fight five years prior when his co-pilot/brother was killed. When he's called back into action for Earth's final stand against the monsters, Rinko Kikuchi plays his new, trainee co-pilot who has some personal (and emotional) scores to settle against the monsters. Idris Elba plays Stacker Pentecost, a Jaeger Sergeant General (or something like that) whose name might shout louder than any of the monsters in the actual film. And who cooler than Elba to play him?
It's light on the character, transparent thin in some cases. Even Beckett's emotional baggage about losing his brother seems to get swept aside once the real stars of the show make their appearance. You wouldn't expect anything but the biggest and most badass when it comes to Guillermo del Toro, and his amazing design team, creating skyscraper-tall monsters fighting one another. The designs on the Kaiju are as creepy as they are interesting, and you almost curse del Toro for shooting them in such darkness. But it goes with the movie's tone, so allow it.
The designs on the Jaeger's, however, are far more interesting. It's not just cool exterior molds and look of these mammoth robots, though they each do have plenty of that. Gipsy Danger's World War II-era paint job is a nice touch. The Jaegers require two pilots to control them, one to handle each side of the machine's suitably massive brain. This causes the two pilots to share memories, join as one mentally, and drive the robot as one individual. It's a very cool concept, and one that's almost convoluted enough to fit in with Pacific Rim's Japanese manga roots.
Once these mechanical creatures put fists to skulls with the enormous Kaiju, you completely understand why del Toro wanted to take on this project. You can almost imagine the man, much like a kid, playing with the imagery of the city-demolishing melees he now had in his control. It's very difficult not to get swept up in the excitement right along with him. The battles in Pacific Rim aren't aplenty, but what they lose in quantity, they make up for in creativity and complete awesomeness. They are nothing but fucking cool.
Yes, amidst all of this amazing action that puts shame to the very word "scope," the drama that's even trying to work itself out is miniscule. As good as Kikuchi and Hunnam are, they can't contend. The connection via Jaeger plays into the story and the drama, but no deeper connection is ever fleshed out, despite what the film ultimately shows us. Charlie Day as a scientist and Kaiju fanatic has some great interplay with Ron Perlman as a "businessman" who sells Kaiju parts on the black market. Pacific Rim is loaded with genuine entertainment, but watching Day and Perlman spar with dialogue may be as fun as anything else in the film.
But whether it's getting blown away by the visual and audible (these monsters pack some pretty mean punches) delight on constant display or the comedy working its way into the cracks the lackluster drama leaves, Pacific Rim has entertainment in droves. Guillermo del Toro remains a master of monsters, imagining worlds bigger than us then visualizing them for everyone to see. It's not the amount of times it pulls at your heartstrings when the movie at hand is something like Pacific Rim. It's the amount of times you mentally said "Holy shit" and let the grin shine from ear to ear. At that, Pacific Rim triumphs.
Jeremy's Rating: 8.5 out of 10
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Public notice of all regularly scheduled, special, and emergency meetings of the transportation review advisory council shall be provided by the director of transportation in the manner specified by this rule. As used in this rule, "director" includes the director's agent.
(A) The director shall prepare notice of any regularly scheduled meeting no less than seven days prior to the date of the meeting. Notice shall contain the caption "notice of regularly scheduled TRAC meeting" and shall state the time and place, and may state the purpose or may include the agenda. The director shall display the notice on the transportation internet website for the Ohio department of transportation.
(B) The director shall prepare notice of any special meeting no less than twenty four hours prior to the scheduled meeting time. Notice shall contain the caption "notice of special TRAC meeting" and shall state the time, place, and purpose and may include the agenda. The director shall fax the notice to news media that have requested meeting notice as provided in paragraph (C) of this rule.
(C) For any regular or special meeting, the director shall mail or fax a copy of the prepared notice to any person who has requested it in writing if the person requesting the notice has furnished a mailing address or fax number and pays the reasonable cost of copying and mailing or faxing the notice. The director also may mail the notice to all subscribers who have requested in writing to be placed on a mailing list and may post notice on the Ohio department of transportation internet web site. The director may determine the reasonable cost of copying, mailing, and faxing notice under this rule.
The director shall provide a copy of the prepared notice to any person who personally appears at the Ohio department of transportation central or district office headquarters and requests the notice. Upon payment of the reasonable cost of copying. The director shall furnish a copy as a public record pursuant to section 149.43 of the Revised Code.
(D) For any emergency meeting, immediate notice of the time, place, and purpose of the meeting shall be provided by fax or telephone to news media that have requested meeting notice as provided in paragraph (C) of this rule. The director is not required to prepare written notice for any emergency meeting.
Cite as Ohio Admin. Code 5512-1-02
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 09/18/2012 and 12/31/2017
Promulgated Under: 111.15
Statutory Authority: 121.22
Rule Amplifies: 5512.05
Prior Effective Dates: 6/14/1999 (Emer.), 8/27/99

subset: commoncrawl


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Avocado Festival: Fallbrook Chamber of Commercewill host its 25th annual celebration of avocados, featuringcooking contests, vendor booths, live entertainment and more from 9a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday in downtown Fallbrook;fallbrookchamberofcommerce.org.
Free yogurt at Yogurtland: Fullerton-basedYogurtland, with a store in Escondido, is marking its five-yearanniversary this weekend by handing out passes for free 2-ouncetastes, one each day Friday through Tuesday. Those who redeem theirpass three days in a row will get a free cooler bag. Visityogurt-land.com.
Brockton Villa revives, expands supper service: La Jolla's Brockton Villa has relaunched its seasonal "SupperService" and announced plans to extend dinner service year-roundthis year. During winter, Brockton Villa (which overlooks La JollaCove) is open only for breakfast and lunch, but on March 15 itreopened for dinner and plans to continue dinner service throughthe high and low seasons. Some of the new supper entrees are SummerShrimp Lettuce Wraps With Mango Salsa, Ginger-Chili Glazed NaturalSalmon With Coconut Cilantro Rice, Cioppino, and New York stripsteak. The restaurant's famous breakfast French toast entree, CoastToast, is also available on the dinner dessert menu with cinnamonor vanilla gelato. Brockton Villa is at 1235 Coast Blvd., La Jolla.Call 858-454-7393 or brocktonvilla.com.
Terra American Bistro now open: After closingits Hillcrest location, Terra American Bistro is now open at 7091El Cajon Blvd. in the East College District. The new restaurantfeatures a chef's farm table, a stone bar, coffee bean-sack coveredseat backs and bar stools, and more. Weekly specials at Terrainclude Burger + Brewskie Night on Tuesdays (10-ounce Angus burger,housemade bistro fries and a 16-ounce draft beer for $14); FishTaco Night on Wednesdays ($3 fish tacos); BBQ Night on Thursdays(house-smoked St. Louis-style ribs and two sides for $15); andLobster Fest on Fridays (whole Maine lobster and corn on the cobfor $19). Terra is closed Mondays, but open for breakfast from 8a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.Tuesday-Friday, and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; anddinner from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday, and4:30 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Breakfast items include ShortRib Hash, House Smoked Salmon Scramble, and Terra's Stuffed FrenchToast. Lunch items include Ginger Chicken Potstickers, LobsterMacaroni 'n Cheese, Potato, Brie & Red Onion Quesadilla, andGrilled Salmon. Dinner items include Salty Peppery Calamari,flatbread pizzas and a slider bar, Achiote Salmon, Karl StraussAmber Lager Braised Pot Roast. Go to terrasd.com or call619-293-7088.
Ciro's opening in PB: Ciro's Pizzeria &Beerhouse will open Sunday at 967 Garnet Ave. in Pacific Beach. Thefolks behind Ciro's Pizzeria in the Gaslamp Quarter teamed withPB's Olde City Grill to offer a menu of pizza and Italian dishesalongside Philadelphia-style cheesesteaks. There will also be achalkboard beer menu detailing what's served out of 22 taps, a"beer of the month" and a Beer Gauntlet Beer Club. The beerhousewill be open from 11 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Wednesday, and11 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. Thursday through Saturday. Go towww.cirossd.com or call 858-483-4624.
Cinnabon reopening: Cinnabon at Westfield NorthCounty will host a grand reopening at 10 a.m. April 23, and thefirst 100 customers will receive a free order of Cinnabon Stix(five twisted pastries dusted with sugar and Makara cinnamon,served with Cinnabon's signature cream cheese frosting fordipping). In the full remodel, the store added new flooring,lighting, seating areas, decor and more product selection. Call760-738-2018.
Late-night special, plus flower cocktails: TheGrant Grill Lounge at the US Grant hotel in San Diego is offering alate-night special from 10 p.m. to close Fridays ---- half off itssignature cocktails (normally $12). Cocktails include the US GrantCentennial Manhattan, Silver Meyer Lemonade, Kaffir Kaipirinha andmore. Seasonal flower cocktails include Libation Lilac(lilac-infused vodka, Parfait d'Amour, lime, lavender bitters andegg whites), Wildflower Whiskey (cornflower-infused whiskey,muddled cornflowers, dandelion and burdock bitters, and lemon), andSuper Seasonal Skinny (rum, hibiscus flower, stevia, ginger andlime). Go to grantgrill.com.
Coco's celebrates Lent: In honor of Lent,Coco's restaurants will offer a "Fish Fry Fridays" menu of threefish entrees priced at $9.99 daily through April 22.
Pacifica spring menu: Pacifica Del Mar chefEvan Cruz has created a spring menu for the seafood restaurant.Dishes include Thai Grilled Tiger Shrimp ($14), Seafood Risotto($14), Ahi Tuna Tartare ($15), Seared Atlantic Sea Scallops ($32),Sous Vide Maine Lobster ($49), House Cured Ribeye ($35) and more.Go to pacificadelmar.com.
AIRR Supper Club opens: AIRR Supper Club andLounge has opened in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter. The restaurantfeatures a variety of lounges and a menu from chef Scott Leibfriedto add to the social dining experience. Go to www.airr.us or call619-546-8306.
San Diegan releases cookbook: Susan Russo ofSan Diego, author of "Recipes Every Man Should Know," released "TheEncyclopedia of Sandwiches" this month. The book looks at more than100 of the world's most famous sandwiches and includes recipes.Preorder on amazon.com.
Roy's offers spring prix-fixe: On Mondays thisspring, Roy's Restaurants are offering a three-course prix-fixemenu for $35.95. Diners can order any appetizer, any entree and anydessert from the menu. Visit roysrestaurant.com.
Daphne's revamps: Carlsbad-based fast-foodchain Daphne's Greek Cafe has changed its name to Daphne'sCalifornia Greek to better represent the new Californiacuisine-inspired menu. All of the company's restaurants areundergoing a remodeling and the menu has been expanded to includeunder-700-calorie menu items and its first salad, the CaliforniaGreek Salad. Visit daphnes.biz.
Counter opens in Del Mar: The Counter CustomBuilt Burgers has opened its second San Diego County location inDel Mar Highlands Town Center, 12873 El Camino Real. The2,882-square-foot, build-your-own burger eatery has seating for 92customers. Hours are 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays, 11 a.m. to11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Call 58-481-9821.
Bento Box returns: Roppongi Sushi Bar &Restaurant in La Jolla has brought back its Bento Box lunchspecial, which changes daily and ranges from $12.95 to $17.95.Sample boxes include Chicken Satay With Curried Peanut Sauce,Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi, and Grilled Portobello Mushroom.The boxes are available from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily; go towww.roppongiusa.com or call 858-551-5252.
Karl Strauss introduces Blackball: Karl StraussBrewing Co. has released the latest beer in its Coastal ReserveSeries, the Blackball Belgian IPA. The beer is being distributed inSouthern California in 22-oz. bottles and on draft. Go towww.karlstrauss.com.
Alchemy of the Hearth adds another chef: Alchemy of the Hearth has announced another chef to its lineup ofinstructors. Chef Salvatore Petrolino, executive chef and foodservices director for Major Market, will teach classes such asClassic American Cuisine and Exploring Wild Game With Sal. Go towww.alchemyofthehearth.com or call 760-233-2433.
Searsucker is hot: Brian Malarkey's GaslampQuarter restaurant Searsucker was recently voted No. 2 in the Top10 Hottest New Restaurants category by reviewers on OpenTable. Thewinners were selected from reviews by opentable.com diners; go tosearsucker.com.
Cafe 21 open for dinner: Cafe 21, which openedits Gaslamp Quarter location in January, is now open for dinnerTuesdays through Sundays at 750 Fifth Ave. Items include flatbreadappetizers, The Strawberry Salad (with pistachios, goat cheese andraspberry vinaigrette), Apricot Tea Braised Lamb Shank, Spinach AndFeta Stuffed Chicken Breast, Pomegranate Glazed Cornish Game Henand more. Go to www.cafe-21.com or call 619-795-0721.
Suite & Tender adds lunch service: Therestaurant at the Se San Diego Hotel in downtown San Diego isserving lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily. Starters are $4-$6;salads are $8-$10; entrees are $8-$11; desserts are $4-$6. Itemsinclude Korean beef tacos, burgers, soba noodles, Asian Cobb salad,and avocado mango salad with fried calamari and passion fruit.Visit sesandiegohotel.com.
Roppongi summer menu: Roppongi Restaurant &Sushi Bar in La Jolla will add summer items to its menu startingMay 1. Additions include Maine Lobster Summer Roll, SummerGazpacho, Salmon Laulau (salmon steam-wrapped in luau leaves, withcucumber salad and brown rice), Grilled White Peaches (with fennelcrust and Kaffir lime sorbet) and more. Drinks include the KyotoColada (rum, sake, coconut water and pineapple juice), Acai Cooler(acai spirit, soda water and blueberries) and Skinny Margarita(tequila, lime juice, agave and soda water). Go towww.roppongiusa.com or call 858-551-5252.
Buca express lunch: Buca di Beppo restaurantshave introduced an express lunch service, available from 11 a.m. to3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Lunch prices start at $6.95; lunchesinclude three courses, starting with a choice of garlic bread, soupor salad. For entrees, selections include Chicken Limone, SpaghettiWith Meat Sauce, Fettucine Supremo and more, including the newItalian Melts (Meatball Italian Melt and Caprese Italian Melt). Goto bucadibeppo.com.
McDonald's product, text campaign: With thelaunch of its new McCafe Frozen Strawberry Lemonade, San DiegoMcDonald's restaurants are supporting Ronald McDonald HouseCharities of San Diego through a text-to-donate campaign. Dinerscan text RONALD to 20222 to donate $5 or more, and then can receivea mobile coupon for a free 12-oz. Frozen Strawberry Lemonade. Go towww.sdmcdonalds.com.
Home game happy hour: With the return ofbaseball to San Diego, the Gaslamp Strip Club (don't worry; it's asteak house) is offering Home Game Happy Hour from 5 to 7 p.m. whenthe Padres play at home. For $10, diners have a choice of skirtsteak, top sirloin or double chicken breast, plus a salad andgarlic bread. Also, diners can get 2 pounds of wings and a pitcherof craft beer for $20; go to gaslampsteak.com or call 619-231-3140.Also, at La Jolla Strip Club, you'll find 16 flat-screen TVs andseven $7 appetizers during happy hour for those who want to avoidthe crowds downtown. Go to lajollasteak.com or call858-450-1400.
Karl Strauss pairings: Karl Strauss BreweryRestaurants have launched April beer and food pairings, featuringthe recently released Blackball Belgian IPA. To pair with the brew,Belgian IPA Mussels ($12.95) feature Carlsbad mussels steamed inthe IPA, garlic, bacon, shallots, herbs and fennel cream withgrilled French bread. Also, starting May 1, the restaurant willfeature The Daily Brews ---- a special menu item for each day ofthe week, available only that day. Specials include chop salad(Mondays), Sand & Salad Turkey Melt (Tuesday), meatloaf(Wednesdays), buffalo chicken Caesar wrap (Thursdays), Baja-stylefish tacos (Fridays), chili burger (Saturdays) and flatbread(Sundays). Go to www.karlstrauss.com.
Cafe Vergnano coming: Cafe Vergnano 1882,Italy's oldest coffee manufacturing firm, will open its first U.S.location in Hillcrest in mid-April. The cafe will feature indoorand outdoor tables as well as take-out service; offerings includecoffee and espresso drinks as well as breakfast, lunch and lightdinner. Cafe Vergnano will be at 3850 Fifth Ave.; go tosandiego1882.com or call 619-255-1882.
Boudin adds salads: Boudin SF in San Marcos hasadded three salads, available through September. The salads areLemony Couscous Salad ($7.99; couscous, spring mix, cucumbers,grape tomatoes, Kalamata olives, garbanzo beans, red onion, roastedred bell pepper, parsley, feta cheese and creamy lemon dressing);Beet & Goat Cheese Salad ($7.99; beets, goat cheese, springmix, tarragon, spiced walnuts and balsamic vinaigrette); andChicken, Citrus & Chipotle Salad ($8.29; chicken breast, butterleaf lettuce, oranges, red onion, cilantro, pumpkin seeds andcitrus chipotle dressing). Call 760-761-1150.
Fleming's dinner for two: Fleming's PrimeSteakhouse & Wine Bar is offering a "Date Night for Two" mealthrough May 15 for $125. The three-course dinner includes RoastedChateaubriand, Lobster En Fuego, spring salad, shared sides ofFrench green beans and mashed potatoes, and Pineapple Tart fordessert. Go to www.flemingssteakhouse.com.
New at Arterra: Arterra at the Marriott Del Marhas two new specials for guests: Reggae Fridays and PrimoSaturdays. From 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Fridays, the restaurant will havepoolside reggae music, signature cocktails and a full menu. AndSaturdays, Arterra will offer a Hawaiian Style Primo menu with $4Primo drafts or $5 Primo Bombucha with any sushi roll. There arealso "bites" for $4 to $11, including Peking Duck Tacos and LobsterKim Chee With Taro Chips. Go to www.arterrarestaurant.com.
Roy's celebration: Roy's restaurant in La Jollawill celebrate its 10th anniversary with reservations from 5 to8:30 p.m. Thursday with a five-course menu and Landmark winepairings for $85. Courses include Hokkaido Scallop Sashimi, "Bacon& Egg" Cassoulet, Roulade of Australian Barramundi, ColoradoRack of Lamb, and Green Tea White Chocolate Marquis. Roy's La Jollais at 8670 Genesee Ave.; go to roysrestaurant.com or call858-455-1616.
Tax Day breaks: Celebrate the end of tax seasonwith two specials in San Diego. On Friday, the Grant Grill willoffer $4.15 cocktails (normally $12) off its new seasonal flowercocktail menu. And on April 18, RA Sushi will offer a "ManicMonday" happy hour from 3 p.m. to close. Happy hour items are $2 to$7 and include Garlic Sugar Snap Peas and Shishito Peppers, SeaweedSalad, Spicy Salmon Roll, RA tapas and more.
Epicurean Elegance: The Moores UC San DiegoCancer Center will host the 30th Celebrity Chefs Cook Gala, called"Epicurean Elegance," from 6 to 11 p.m. Saturday at the SheratonSan Diego Hotel & Marina. Program begins from 6 to 7:30 p.m.with a reception featuring dishes prepared on-site by chefsincluding Gavin Kaysen, Bernard Guillas, William Bradley, JeanMichel Diot, Trey Foshee, Patrick Ponsaty, Jeffrey Strauss andKevin "Top Chef" Gillespie, followed by a sit-down dinner and livemusic by NRG. Tickets are $350; go to www.celebritychefscook.org orcall 858-534-6797.
U-TOUCH Tasting Benefit: U-TOUCH, a charitythat provides free computer and internet access and training topeople in Northern Uganda, will host a fundraising gala withtastings from local restaurants and wineries at 6:30 p.m. Saturdayat the home of Dr. and Mrs. Ron Plotkin, 9945 Chantemar, San Diego.There will also be Ugandan artwork for sale, African drumming anddance performances and speakers. Visit U-touch.org or call858-886-7524.
P.F. Chang's tax day: P.F. Chang's China Bistrorestaurants will offer 15 percent off for tax day Monday. The "TaxRelief" promotion applies to dine-in and take-out customers, but itis only valid on food (not alcohol or happy hour items); go towww.pfchangs.com.
Taste of Shelter Island: The Peninsula Chamberof Commerce hosts this culinary tour of more than 20 restaurants onthe Shelter Island/Point Loma peninsula (formerly known as the"Chamber Chomp") from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday. Participants include theBrigantine, the Wine Pub, Bali Hai, Jimmy's Famous American Tavernand many more. Shuttle service is available between locations.Tickets are $20 and can be purchased onsite at the Brigantine at2725 Shelter Island Drive, or online at peninsulachamber.com.
Tango hosts JAQK wine dinner: Tango Restauranthosts a five-course wine dinner and champagne reception featuringmenu pairings with JAQK wines at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at 417 W. GrandAve. in Escondido. Menu items include Sauteed Local Mushrooms InPuff Pastry; Pan-Seared Maine Diver Scallop; Roasted Veal Loin;Slow Roasted Lamb Rack; and more. Cost is $65. Go towww.tangoongrand.com or call 760-747-5000.
I Love Poke Festival: The second annual I LovePoke Festival is set for Wednesday at Bali Hai Restaurant onShelter Island. At the festival, chefs will compete in atraditional "best poke" category and a "surprise poke" challenge,and guests can sample more than 15 poke tastings in addition toisland-styled food, drinks and entertainment. Participating chefsinclude Kari Rich of Voyeur and Mike Malicdem of Raw Mana Sushi;judges include "Top Chef" finalist and Searsucker chef BrianMalarkey, Sam the Cooking Guy, and Cups La Jolla owner MichelleLerach. Tickets are $50 presale or $65 at the door; go towww.ilovemusubi.com.
Firefly events: Firefly Grill & Wine Bar inEncinitas hosts wine dinners and tastings at 251 N. El Camino Real,Suite B. Go to fireflygrillandwinebar.com or call 760-635-1066.
-- Wednesday: Tolosa Winery Dinner; $59
-- May 10: Clos Pegase Wine Dinner; $75
-- May 12: Sanford Wine Dinner; $75
-- May 18: Pineridge Wine Dinner; $75
-- June 14: Cakebread Cellars Wine Dinner;$89
Flavor Del Mar wine dinner: Flavor Del Mar willhost a wine dinner with DAOU Vineyards and Winery of Paso Robles at6:30 p.m. April 26. The dinner begins with tray-passed appetizers,including Maine Lobster Beignets With Jalapeno Hollandaise; FoieGras Deviled Quail Eggs On Crispy Duck Cracklings; Duck RilletteCake With Chino Farms Strawberry Compote & Basil Syrup; andmore. The four-course dinner includes Seared Day Boat Scallop;Porcini Dusted Loin of California Lamb; 24-Hour Sous Vide BeefShort Rib; and Vanilla Bean Creme Fraiche Panna Cotta. Dinner is$95 per person, including wine pairings. Go to www.flavordelmar.comor call 858-755-3663.
"Carmen" Dinner at Cafe Sevilla: San DiegoOpera concludes its third annual series of opera-inspired dinnersat local restaurants, with this Spanish dinner featuring companyEducation director Nicolas Reveles and Kristina Cobarrubia ofFlamenco Aana dance company, at 6:30 p.m. April 27. Three-coursedinner with glass of wine is $55, including tax and tip. Advancereservations required to 619-533-7000.
Kosher cuisine presentation: Tina Wasserman,author of the cookbook "Entree to Judaism," a culinary journeytracing the Jewish diaspora, will headline an evening offood-themed activities from 6 to 9 p.m. April 29 at Temple Solel,3575 Manchester Ave., Cardiff. Program includes a Shabbat dinnerfrom 6-7 p.m. featuring Wasserman's recipes; a lecture by Wassermanfrom 8-9 p.m., an Israeli wine tasting, a challah-making class forchildren (ages 3-10) led by Wasserman, games for children andadults and Shabbat service. Call 760-436-0654.
Taste of Temecula Valley: The Temecula ValleyFoundation for Excellence in Education, the Temecula Valley UnifiedSchool District, the City of Temecula and Riverside County willsponsor A Taste of Temecula Valley from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. April 30at Town Square Park, 41000 Main St. in Old Town Temecula. The eventwill include more than 40 food, beer and wine-related participants.Admission is $10 (children 12 and younger are free); proceedsbenefit TVUSD schools by funding art, science and technologyprograms. Go to www.tvfee.org.
"A Night of Discovery at Stone World Bistro & Gardens": San Diego Children's Discovery Museum (formerlyEscondido Children's Museum) hosts a gala evening of food, beers,wines and music from 6 to 10 p.m. May 3 at Stone World Bistro, 1999Citracado Parkway, Escondido. The fundraising event, whichcelebrates the museum's new name and 10th anniversary, will featuregourmet tasting stations with beer and wine pairings, with liveBrazilian jazz, bossa nova and pagode music on the Stone patio.Tickets are $150 ($185 at the door). Call sdcdm.org orstoneworldbistro.com.
Mama's Day: Mama's Kitchen hosts its 20th annualfundraiser from 6:30-9:30 p.m. May 6 at the Hyatt Regency La JollaAventine. More than 50 chefs from San Diego restaurants, hotels andcatering companies will serve samples from their menus. The eventalso includes a silent auction, live music and no-host bar. Ticketsare $125 ($150 at the door). A $250 VIP ticket includes a party atthe W Hotel on April 8. All proceeds benefit Mama's Kitchen, whichdelivers three meals daily to more than 300 San Diego Countyresidents affected by AIDS and cancer. Order atmamaskitchen.org.
Outstanding in the Field: Two local chefs willhost a series of dinners that aims to reconnect diners with theorigins of their meals. The "roving restaurant" hosts dinners atfarms, gardens, mountaintops, sea caves and more. Chef Paul McCabeof Kitchen 1540 will host an event at 4 p.m. May 14 at Crow's PassFarm in Temecula; and Chef Brian Malarkey or Searsucker will hostan event at 4 p.m. May 15 at Olivewood Gardens in National City.Tickets are $200 and go on sale Sunday; go tooutstandinginthefield.com.
BBQ, wine and blues: Lorimar Vineyard inTemecula will host its second Wine and Blues Event from 3 to 8 p.m.May 21. The event features food from Smokin-n-Spicy KC BBQ, wines,entertainment and more on the Lorimar property (the winery recentlysigned papers to break ground on its estate on the vineyardproperty). Tickets are available at the tasting room, 42031 MainSt., Suite C, in Temecula. Go to www.lorimarwinery.com.
Field to Fork: Slow Food Temecula Valley andLeonesse Cellars will host a Field to Fork wine, beer and foodpairing event from 1 to 5 p.m. May 21 at the winery in Temecula.Local chefs will man tasting stations, including Bernard Guillas(The Marine Room), Alex Carballo (Stone Brewery), Mike Henry(Meritage), Michael McDonald (Top of the Market), Leah Di Bernardo(Delyte's Fine Foods) and Jeff Rossman (Terra). Eight wineries, twobreweries and other food purveyors are also participating. Ticketsare $50 and benefit local school garden programs. Go towww.slowfoodtv.org.
18th Annual Sicilian Festival: San Diego'sLittle Italy community hosts its annual celebration of all thingsSicilian from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 22. The event features foodbooths, a grape stomp, live entertainment on four stages, twobeer-and-wine grottos, a pasta-eating contest and culinarydemonstrations by Food Network's Chef Giada De Laurentiis. Allevents take place along India Street in San Diego and admission isfree. Visit sicilianfestival.org.
Taste of Little Italy: The fourth annual Tasteof Little Italy is scheduled for 5 to 9 p.m. May 25 in the LittleItaly neighborhood of San Diego. For $35 (in advance; $40 at thedoor), diners can sample fare from Anthology, Buon Appetito, BurgerLounge, Enoteca Style, Po Pazzo and more. Past samples includesaffron arancini bites, fettucini Genovese, burgers, Risotto Pazzoand more. Go to www.tasteoflittleitalysd.com or call619-615-1092.
San Diego Spirits Festival: The third annualSan Diego Spirits Festival will be June 25-26 at the Port Pavilionon Broadway Pier in San Diego. The festival includes competitions,tastings, seminars and parties; leading to the festival, San DiegoCocktail Week (June 20-24) will highlight craft cocktails at localbars. Go to www.sandiegospiritsfestival.com.
333 Pacific, Oceanside: A three-course menuwill be available from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. for $49.95 for adults and$12.95 for children 12 and younger. Menu selections, which alsooffers free champagne, include Coastal Clam Chowder; Crab, ShrimpAnd Lobster Cake; Pan Roasted Salmon; Veal Scalloppine Oscar;Blueberry And Lemon Mascarpone Tart; and more. Go to 333pacific.comor call 760-433-3333.
4240, San Diego Marriott La Jolla: California-inspired brunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.for $39.95 per adult, $35.95 per senior, and $12 for children 12and younger. Courses include Herb Crusted Pork Loin With BlackberryGlaze, Salmon Wellington With Truffle And Mushroom Bordelaise,Sweet Potato Gratin With Bleu Cheese And Asiago, and more. Guestswill have a chance to win a "family style" dinner for eight in theprivate dining room. Go to www.marriott.com/sanlj or call858-597-6319.
BO-beau Kitchen + Bar, Ocean Beach: Athree-course menu will be available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for$31.95 for adults and $12.95 for children 12 and younger. Menuselections, which also offers free champagne, mimosa or bellini,include a basket of homemade croissants; Quiche Lorraine; BriocheFrench Toast; Lobster Mac n Cheese; Chocolate Souffle; and more. Goto dinecrg.com or call 619-224-2884.
Cafe Champagne, Thornton Winery, Temecula: Buffet brunch available from noon to 5 p.m. for $49.95 for adults,$19.95 for children and free for children under 5. Selectionsinclude Basil Pesto Penne Pasta Salad; Tomato Caprese Salad; BBQCured Salmon With Citrus Marmalade; Italian Chicken And Dumplings;Crab And Bay Shrimp Lasagna; mini cheesecake bites; and more. Go towww.thorntonwine.com or call 951-699-0099.
Cohn Restaurant Group: Three restaurants in theCohn Restaurant Group will thank mothers with a free entree. VisitBlue Point Coastal Cuisine, Indigo Grill or Corvette Diner for afree entree with the purchase of two additional entrees. Go towww.dinecrg.com.
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar: TheLa Jolla and San Diego locations will serve brunch from 11:30 a.m.to 3 p.m. for $32.95 per adult and $15.95 per child. Also, theTickled Pink 99-calorie cocktail will be available all day for$6.95. The three-course brunch selections include Berry StuffedFrench Toast, fresh fruit salad, Mushroom, Cheddar And Filet MignonFrittata, Smoked Salmon And Toasted Bagel, Creme Brulee and more.Also, every mom will receive a $25 gift card for a future visit. Goto flemingssteakhouse.com.
The Grand Del Mar: There are three diningoptions, as well as tea and bubbly, available for the weekend. TheManchester Salon will serve brunch from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for$85 per adult and $30 per child. Buffet items include Slow-RoastedPomegranate Beef Tenderloin With Parsnip Mash; Chile-Smoked LittleNeck Clams, Hazelnut Milk Chocolate Mousse and more; call858-314-2000. Amaya will serve a three-course brunch from 10 a.m.to 3 p.m. for $45 and a three-course dinner from 5 to 9 p.m. for$55 ($85 with wine pairings). Brunch items include Smoked SalmonPlate, Dungeness Crab Benedict, Striped Sea Bass Puttanesca,Pistachio-Orange Mousse Bar With Candied Pistachios and more; call858-314-2727. Addison will serve three-, four-, seven- or 10-coursemenus featuring seasonal items from 5:30 to 9 p.m.; call858-314-1900. Also, from 2 to 4 p.m. May 6-8, afternoon tea andbubbly will be offered in The Library, starting at $42; call858-314-1988. Go to www.thegranddelmar.com.
Island Prime & C Level Lounge, Harbor Island: A three-course menu will be available from 11 a.m.to 7 p.m. for $49.95 for adults and $12.95 for children 12 andyounger. Menu selections, which also offers free champagne, includeLobster Bisque; Everything Crusted Ahi Tuna; Maples Glazed WhiteMarble Farms Pork Chop; Brownie Cheesecake; and more. Go todinecrg.com or call 619-298-6802.
Morton's The Steakhouse, San Diego: A specialthree-course dinner will be available from 3 to 9 p.m. for $59 perperson (regular menu will also be available). Courses includeMorton's Salad, Single-Cut Filet Mignon, Broiled Salmon Filet,Creme Brulee and more. Go to www.mortons.com or call619-696-3369.
Ponte Family Winery, Temecula: Brunch is $55per adult and $25 per child 12 and younger. Brunch also includesjazz music, wines and gourmet brunch buffet. Go to pontewinery.comor call 951-694-8855.
The Prado, Balboa Park: A buffet brunch menuwill be available from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for $59.95 for adultsand $16.95 for children ages 6 to 12 (under 6 are free). Buffetselections, which also offers free champagne, include made-to-orderomelets; cinnamon roll French toast; red wine braised beef shortribs; a dim sum station; a carving station; and more. Go todinecrg.com or call 619-557-9441.
Alchemy of the Hearth: Cooking classes areoffered at 960 Rancheros Drive, Suite L, San Marcos. Alchemy of theHearth is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Call for pricing; go toalchemyofthehearth.com or call 760-233-2433.
-- 10 a.m. Thursday: Meals on Wheels SpecialEvent
-- 6 p.m. Thursday: Classic AmericanCuisine
-- 10 a.m. Friday: Artisan Pizza
-- 6:30 p.m. Friday: The Romance of Wine andChocolate Pairing
-- 10 a.m. Saturday: The Mother Sauces
-- 1:30 p.m. Saturday: Mastering Technique:Sauces Advanced
-- 6 p.m. Sunday: Happy Passover
-- 10 a.m. Monday: Diet and Auto ImmuneDiseases
-- 6 p.m. Monday: Flatbreads: Bread 101Series
-- 10 a.m. Tuesday: Biscotti
-- 4 p.m. Tuesday: Teen Chefs: Sauces ofItaly
-- 6 p.m. Tuesday: Chicken, Chicken,Chicken
-- 10 a.m. Wednesday: The MediterraneanDiet
-- 4 p.m. Wednesday: Kids Easter CookieDecorating Party
-- 6:30 p.m. Wednesday: Fondant ModelingWorkshop
-- 10 a.m. April 21: The Exquisite Pavlova
-- 6 p.m. April 21: Sushi
Alta Vista Gardens: Mary Dralle offers cookingclasses at Alta Vista Gardens, 1270 Vale Terrace Drive in Vista.Classes are $20 and include tastings and recipes; register email@example.com.
-- 1:30 p.m. April 30: Local Farm Foods
Cooking With Love: The next Cooking With Lovecooking class, which benefits the Ronald McDonald House, will befrom 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday and will be led by chef Ryan Johnston ofWhisknladle in La Jolla. Johnston will teach students to cook andpair wine; recipes include Pasta Rustica Toscana, Gnocchi WithBolognese, Housemade Ricotta And Swiss Chard Ravioli With BrownButter And Sage, and Spaghetti Alla Chitarra With Carbonara. Theclass is $75 to participate or $50 to watch at the kitchen at theRonald McDonald House, 2929 Children's Way in San Diego. Go tormhcsd.org or call 858-598-2415.
Cups Culinary: The cupcake lounge in La Jollaalso offers a variety of classes at 7857 Girard Ave.; go tocupslj.com or call 858-459-2877 for prices and registration.
-- 2:30 p.m. Saturday: "What the Pho?"Vietnamese food
-- 9 a.m. Sunday: Farm-to-Table
-- 6 p.m. April 21: Easter cookiedecorating
-- 2:30 p.m. April 23: A "Big Night" ofTimpano
-- 2:30 p.m. April 30: A Slimmer Cinco deMayo
"A Culinary Journey to France": Carlsbad CityLibrary hosts chef Julie Frans of Dining Details, who willdemonstrate the cooking techniques of her favorite Julia Childdishes at 4 p.m. April 23 at the Schulman Auditorium, 1775 DoveLane, Carlsbad. Admission is free. Call 760-602-2026.
Great News! Discount Cookware & Cooking School: The San Diego school hosts cooking classes at 1788Garnet Ave. (in the Pacific Plaza at Garnet Avenue and JewellStreet); reserve to 858-270-1582, ext. 3, or go towww.great-news.com. Reserve early; classes fill quickly.
-- 10:30 a.m. Thursday: Greek Feast; $54
-- 6 p.m. Thursday: Tacos Ole; $54
-- 6 p.m. Friday: Do-Ahead Easter; $59
-- 11 a.m. Saturday: Springtime French Cuisine;$54
-- 11 a.m. Sunday: Hands-On Sausage Making;$69
-- 6 p.m. Monday: Tastes of R-Gang Eatery;$59
-- 10:30 a.m. Tuesday: Spring Tea Party;$54
-- 6 p.m. Tuesday: Dining in India; $54
-- 6 p.m. Wednesday: Making Favorites Healthy:From Fat to Fab; $45
-- 10:30 a.m. April 21: Gluten-Free Baking;$54
-- 6 p.m. April 21: Palate Pleasing Pork;$54
-- 6 p.m. April 22: Friday Night Dinner Party:Fresh and Easy; $59
-- 11 a.m. April 23: Hands-On Cake Decorating:Piping Details; $59
Inspired Gourmet: Inspired Gourmet offerscooking classes at 11 a.m. Saturdays at 29373 Broken Arrow Way inMurrieta. Classes are $45; go to inspiredgourmetcooking.com or call951-894-7551.
-- Saturday: Showstopping Appetizers
-- May 21: Spring Dining
-- June 11: Quick and Easy to Prepare
-- June 25: Lunch, Bridal Shower or CasualDinner Fare
-- July 23: Casual Summer Food
-- Aug. 20: Asian Fare
"A Culinary Journey Through France": JulieFrans of Dining Details will demonstrate how to cook dishes fromJulia child's "My Life in France" at 4 p.m. April 23 at 1775 DoveLane, Carlsbad. The event is part of the Carlsbad Library's "MyLife in France" reading program this month. Admission is free andon a first-come, first-served basis. Go to www.carlsbadlibrary.orgor call 760-602-2012.
Ro Z's Sweet Art Studio: Rosanne Zinniger'scake decorating shop and studio at 277 S. Rancho Santa Fe Road, SanMarcos, offers classes in cake decorating. There is also a kidscake decorating club for children ages 7 to 11 on one Saturday ofevery month; go to the website for dates. The store is open from10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.Saturday. Call 760-744-0447 or visit rozsweetartstudio.com.
-- 6 p.m. Tuesday: Spring Gourmet CupcakeWorkshop; $65
-- 6:30 p.m. April 21-May 26: Cake Design:Basics to Fondant (six-week Thursday course); $175, plus $30 kitfee
-- 6:30 p.m. April 25-May 30: Advanced CakeDesign (six-week Monday course); $300
-- 6:30 p.m. April 27: Haute Cookie DecoratingWith Larry Calvert; $55
-- 6:30 p.m. May 3-24: The Gourmet CupcakeSeries (four-week class); $125, plus a $30 materials fee
-- 10 a.m. May 7-June 18: Cake Design enEspanol: Basics to Fondant (six-week course); $125, plus $30 kitfee
--5 p.m. May 20: A Very Sweet Trip Around theWorld (sugar flowers); $55
-- 8 a.m. May 21: Bling It Up! (edible jewels);$195
-- 2:30 p.m. May 21: Fantasy Flowers; $195
-- 8 a.m. May 22: Make Your Own Lace Molds;$250
-- 2:30 p.m. May 22: Roses; $195
-- 9:30 a.m. Aug. 20-21: Parrot Tulips, Peoniesand Poppies; $495
Sur la Table: The Carlsbad location offerscooking classes at 1915 Calle Barcelona (in The Forum shops). Call800-243-0851 or e-mail firstname.lastname@example.com:
-- 6:30 p.m. Thursday: Pizza and Wine Pairing;$79
-- 6:30 p.m. Friday: Date Night: Paris in theSpring; $79
-- 10:30 a.m. Saturday: What's New, Cupcake?;$69
-- 3 p.m. Saturday: Date Night: Paris in theSpring; $79
-- 11 a.m. Sunday: Elegant Easter Brunch;$69
-- 3 p.m. Sunday: Anthony Bourdain's KitchenBasics: Three Part Series; $175
-- 6:30 p.m. Monday: Fresh and FlavorfulPastas; $79
-- 10:30 a.m. Tuesday: Global Pantry; $69
-- 6:30 p.m. Tuesday: Easy Weeknight Meals;$69
-- 6:30 p.m. Wednesday: Fish and Shellfish fromAround the World; $79
-- 6:30 p.m. April 21: Spring Tapas and PaellaParty; $69
-- 6:30 p.m. April 22: SAVEUR Cooks:Charleston's Soul Food; $69
-- 11 a.m. April 23: Fresh and FlavorfulPastas; $69
Thornton Winery: The Temecula winery'sexecutive chef Steve Pickell hosts cooking classes at 32575 RanchoCalifornia Road. Reserve to 951-699-0099.
-- May 14: Seafood Delights
-- June 4: BBQ Class
Acqua Al 2: The Gaslamp Quarter restauranthosts wine tastings during "Uncorked" the first Wednesday of everymonth at 322 Fifth Ave. in San Diego. For $20, guests taste fourwine/spirit selections paired with four appetizers. Reservationsare required; call 619-230-0382 or go to acquaal2.com.
Blue Door Winery: The 10-acre vineyard hasopened a tasting room at 1255 Julian Orchards Drive in Julian.Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Cost is $8 for five tastings.Bottled wines are $19 to $29. A grand opening celebration isscheduled for March 26. Call 760-765-0361 orbluedoorwinery.com.
Carlsbad Wine Merchants: Hosts tastings at 5p.m. Fridays and 4 to 7 p.m. Saturdays for a fee at 5814 Van AllenWay, Suite 155, Carlsbad. Call 888-750-WINE or visitwww.CarlsbadWineMerchants.com.
The Collective: Tasting lounge featuresone-of-a-kind, handmade boutique wines at 28544 Old Town FrontStreet in Temecula. Hours are 3 to 10 p.m. Wednesdays andThursdays, noon to midnight Fridays and Saturdays, and noon to 10p.m. Sundays. Call 951-693-4567 or go to tvwinecollective.com.
ENO-Versity at the Hotel Del: ENO, the wine,cheese and chocolate tasting room at the Hotel del Coronado, hasannounced fall classes for ENO-Versity. Classes are $35 per person(unless noted) and start at 4 p.m.; call 619-522-8546 or go tohoteldel.com/ENO-wine. The Hotel Del is at 1500 Orange Ave. inCoronado.
Fifty Barrels Winery and Tasting Room: Hoststastings from 5 to 8 p.m. Fridays and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdaysat 3800 Oceanic Drive, Suite 106, Oceanside. Call 760-696-2998 orgo to carlsbadcoastal.com.
Harvest Ranch Market Del Mar: Wine tastingsfrom 5-7:30 p.m. plus appetizers for $10-$20. The store is at 1555Camino Del Mar, Suite 203, Del Mar. Call 858-847-0555.
Holiday Wine Cellar: Daily tastings from 5:30-7p.m. at 302 W. Mission Ave., Escondido. Wine Down Mondays featurefive wine tastes for $5 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Mondays, and "Hop Overthe Hump Wednesdays" are weekly beer-tasting events for $5. Go toholidaywinecellar.com or call 760-745-1200.
-- 7 p.m. Thursday: Wine Guerrilla ZinfandelBBQ; $35
-- 5 p.m. May 2: French Bargains; $5
La Costa Wine Co.: Tastings are held at 6986 ElCamino Real, Suite D, Carlsbad. Go to lacostawineco.com or call760-431-8455.
La Valencia Hotel wine series: La ValenciaHotel in La Jolla has launched a wine program. La Valencia is at1132 Prospect St.; go to www.lavalencia.com.
Miramonte Winery: The Temecula winery hostsVIBE once a month with music, food, wines, champagnes, beers andDJs; the winery also hosts "Just Us Girls" at 7 p.m. the firstThursday of every month. The event features wines, champagnecocktails, hors d'oeuvres and vendors. Go to miramontewinery.com orcall 951-506-5500.
North County Wine Company: Brothers Jim andBill Tobin have recently purchased North County Wine Company at1099 W. San Marcos Blvd. in San Marcos. The wine bar and shop isopen from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 9p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. FridayNight Tastings are $10 and include seven wine tastings and snacks.Other weekly events include Tuesday Ladies Night, Meet theWinemaker Wednesday, Thirsty Thursday, Friday Wine Tasting Six forSix Saturday and Silver Sunday Special. Call 760-744-2119 or visitwww.NorthCountyWineCompany.com.
Stone Brewing Co.: The Escondido brewery andrestaurant is hosting events at 1999 Citracado Parkway inEscondido. The bistro also hosts movies in its garden duringwarm-weather months. Call 760-471-4999 or go to www.stonebrew.comto check availability.
-- 7 p.m. Tuesday: Master Pairings: Beer &Chocolate; $49
-- 7 p.m. May 16: Beer U: Inside the Craft BeerIndustry; $25
Tango offers half-price Wednesdays: Escondido'sTango Restaurant & Lounge is offering half-price on all drinksand bottles of wine from 3 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays, as well as happyhour pricing all evening. Visit tangoongrand.com.
Toast Enoteca & Cucina: The East Villagerestaurant will host a wine tasting festival featuring top Italianwines from 6 to 9 p.m. April 21 at 927 J St. The festival is $60and includes wine tastings and appetizers; go towww.toastenoteca.com or call 619-269-4207.
T&H Prime Meats & Sausage: The shop nowoffers tastings from 10 San Diego wineries from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.Thursdays-Saturdays for $5, which includes four tastes and a SanDiego Vintners Association souvenir wine glass, at 735 E. MissionRoad, San Marcos. Call 760-471-9192.
Vino100: Wine tasting events are offered at 5p.m. at 133 S. Las Posas Road in San Marcos. Call 760-591-9113 orgo to vino100sanmarcos.com.
Vinz Wine Bar: Full restaurant menu with widewine menu by the glass or bottle. Tastings are from $5-$10 from 5to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and 3 to 5 p.m. Saturdays, and come withcharcuterie and cheese. Live music on Saturdays. Vinz is at 201 E.Grand Ave., Escondido. Call 760-743-8466 or visitvinzwinebar.net.
WineRave: WineRave San Diego will come to FLUXXnightclub on April 28 with 25 wineries, breweries and spiritspurveyors. Tickets are $45 and include 20 tastings, appetizers,entertainment and discounted bar drinks. Go to www.wineravesd.comor call 619-312-1212.
Wine Smarties: The Wine Smarties presentsinternationally recognized WSET certification programs and otherwine classes. The courses are ideal for enthusiasts, professionalsor those looking to enter the industry. Call 619-955-8884 or go towinesmarties.com. Reservations required for all classes andevents.
-- 6:30 p.m. Friday: Easter Chocolate Makingand Wine Pairings; at Von Euw Chocolates, 8662 Avenida de laFuente, Suite 15, San Diego
-- 6:30 p.m. Tuesday: Blind Tasting 101; at 57Degrees Wine Bar, 1735 Hancock St., San Diego; $40
-- 6 p.m. April 26: Ultimate Cheese and WinePairing; at La Costa Wine Co., 6986 El Camino Real, Carlsbad;$40
-- 6:30 p.m. April 27: Old World vs. New World;at Wine Steals Point Loma, 2970 Truxtun Road, San Diego; $30
-- 6:30 p.m. April 29: Easter Chocolate Makingand Wine Pairings; at Von Euw Chocolates, 8662 Avenida de laFuente, Suite 15, San Diego
-- 3:30 p.m. April 30: World of Wine 101; at LaCosta Wine Co., 6986 El Camino Real, Carlsbad; $40
-- 6:30 p.m. May 6: Mother's Day ChocolateMaking and Wine Pairings; at Von Euw Chocolates, 8662 Avenida de laFuente, Suite 15, San Diego
-- 6:30 p.m. May 10: World of Wine 101; at 57Degrees Wine Bar, 1735 Hancock St., San Diego; $40
-- 6:30 p.m. May 13: Mother's Day ChocolateMaking and Wine Pairings; at Von Euw Chocolates, 8662 Avenida de laFuente, Suite 15, San Diego
-- 3:30 p.m. May 14: Blind Tasting 101; at LaCosta Wine Co., 6986 El Camino Real, Carlsbad; $40
-- 6:30 p.m. May 17: Sparkling Beginning andSweet Endings; at Wine Steals Point Loma, 2970 Truxtun Road, SanDiego; $30
-- 6:30 p.m. May 24: Blind Tasting 101; at 57Degrees Wine Bar, 1735 Hancock St., San Diego; $40
-- 6:30 p.m. June 7: World of Wine 101; at 57Degrees Wine Bar, 1735 Hancock St., San Diego; $40
-- 3:30 p.m. June 11: Blind Tasting 101; at LaCosta Wine Co., 6986 El Camino Real, Carlsbad; $40
-- 6:30 p.m. June 21: Blind Tasting 101; at 57Degrees Wine Bar, 1735 Hancock St., San Diego; $40
-- 3:30 p.m. June 25: World of Wine 101; at LaCosta Wine Co., 6986 El Camino Real, Carlsbad; $40
-- 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 8-July 10: WSET Level3 (advanced), eight-week course, at 57 Degrees in San Diego; $1,200(July 31 exam is an additional $150)
WineStyles: The Encinitas wine store offerswine, microbrews, cheese platters and panini after 5 p.m. andseveral specials each week. On Wednesdays, get a 1/2-price glass orflight of wine after 5 p.m.; Thursday is Ladies' Night; there islive music most Fridays and Saturdays; and there is a Super SixWine Tasting on Saturday afternoons. WineStyles is open from noonto 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon to 10 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.to 10 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Go towww.winestyles.net/encinitas or call 760-633-0057.
Send information about local food products, food events or classes to Food Editor Pam Kragen, North County Times, 207 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Escondido, CA 92025; fax to 760-745-3769, or e-mail to email@example.com.


text: I have heard it both ways. They are wider than most lawn tractors with a lower center of gravity--why would they be worse on hills? Also, I have heard that front mount ZTR's are better on hills than mid-mount. Why is this? I have a pond dam to mow and I want to make sure I buy the right mower. As much money as these babies cost I want to make sure I get the right thing the first time around. Thanks again. Brett


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MEDINA — A Cleveland sports radio host was sentenced to two years of probation Monday after pleading no contest to a disorderly conduct charge after an incident where police were called to his Medina home in December.
Tony Rizzo, 52, host of "The Really Big Show" on WKNR-AM, was arrested Dec. 6 at his home in the 1000 block of Sugarhouse Lane. His wife called police from a locked bathroom and said her husband had choked her.
"My husband is hurting me and he's very irate and I'm very scared," she told the dispatcher in a 911 call released by Medina police in December.
He was charged with domestic violence. But charge was reduced last month to persistent disorderly conduct, a fourth-degree misdemeanor, after prosecutors reached a plea bargain in exchange for a plea of no contest.
Prosecutors said one of the reasons they accepted the deal was because Rizzo's wife wanted police to drop the charges and changed her story during a follow-up interview with police.
Medina Municipal Judge Dale H. Chase sentenced Rizzo to 30 days in jail, but suspended 27 of the days and credited him for the three days he served in jail after his arrest. The judge also placed Rizzo on probation for two years and fined him $250.
The maximum punishment for a fourth-degree misdemeanor is 30 days in jail, house arrest, probation or counseling.


text: This was my second visit at The Blue Beetroot and third time in Poland. It just keeps getting better and better! If you want to feel wanted and cared for ... absolutely stay at The Blue Beetroot. John, Barbara and Jarek are wonderful ambassadors for Boleslawiec, Lower Silesia and Poland. We have traveled all over the world and make it... More


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Welcome to Triumphant Faith Church!
Triumphant Faith Church is a Spirit-filled, Christian church for the whole family. In our services, you can expect to experience lively praise and worship and sound biblical teaching, as we seek to illuminate all of the possibilities of having a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
Come join us! There is a place for every member of the family to be involved. We look forward to meeting you!