Kevin Cox gets a kick out of spotting vintage Electra bikes. In Holland, while strolling scenic canals, the Electra president saw several classic Townies, the laidback bike with braun that made the Encinitas-based company a global hit in the early aughts. In Idaho, it was an old- school Electra Townie Go!, which is one of the best-selling e-bikes on the market today.
“You could tell this thing had been ridden a gajillion miles,” says Cox. “That’s awesome. People are using them all the time. They really don’t wear out.”
Electra turns 30 next year, and it’s been quite a ride. For the first decade, the brand turned out a stylish modern riff on the mid-century American beach cruiser—think a souped-up Schwinn in fresh colorways.
“The ocean and beach are part of our DNA,” says Cox, wearing a Hawaiian shirt in his Electra HQ office filled with surfboards and bikes, just a 30-second walk from Moonlight Beach.“You can’t take that away from us. It’s ingrained in who we are as a company.”
Electra bikes, socks
Then came the Electra Townie in 2003. The attractive bike landed somewhere between a beach cruiser and a Euro-style commuter model. It had sturdy gears and brakes. It came in fun and edgy hues and graphics packages, including collaborations with artists and other brands. And, most importantly, it was painstakingly designed to be easy and comfortable.
“It’s our flat-foot tech,” says Cox. “And I say that tongue-in-cheek because it’s not so technical. You can put your feet flat on the ground when you stop without having to jump off the seat.”
In a market once dominated by road, mountain, and BMX bikes, the cool- looking comfort bike became a sensation.
“The Townie got a lot of people on bikes who thought they’d never ride again,” he says.
Electra bikes – 30th
Today’s much-improved Townie has stood the test of time, and it’s also gone electric. “In 2012, we took our best-selling Townie and made it an e-bike,” says Cox, describing the Townie Go! “That’s our biggest evolution. We’re still a lifestyle bike brand, but we’ve transitioned into being a leading global e-bike company.”
Cox adds that just like the comfort bike, e-bikes are for everyone. Even though he’s a longtime avid road cyclist— the high speeds and Spandex kind—he and his family spend weekends cruising around their Encinitas neighborhood on Townie Go! bikes.
“We’re the 90 percent brand,” says Cox. “There are hundreds of millions who ride bikes, but only 10 percent of those are high-end enthusiasts. The rest are leisure lifestyle riders.”
Up a mile in the bluebird sky of the Peninsular Ranges, I pedal away on my mountain bike from Penny Pines Trailhead, which sits off of Sunrise Highway, and go in the direction of the southern terminus of the Noble Canyon Trail, some ten miles away in Pine Valley.
It is a dandy of a trail, traveling through pine forest and mixed oaks before reaching the farthest edges of the Colorado Desert, a sub-desert of the greater Sonoran. Along the way, the traveler, whether on foot, horseback, or bike, descends through six eco-zones. During the winter, when rain and snow fall on the Lagunas, Noble Creek steadily—and sometimes heartily—flows through the canyon, a mountain-to-desert seasonal stream that fills the air with a refreshing and life-giving song.
Photo Credit: Ana Ramirez
The Peninsular Ranges are characterized by what some consider to be “sky islands,” meaning that their uppermost peaks reach more than 6,000 feet. The Noble Canyon Trail begins in a pine and oak “island,” then drops in elevation from its northernmost point to its southern end. However, trail traversers also ascend some uphill sections here and there, the first one less than a mile into the trek.
In the far viewshed to the north, snow-capped San Gorgonio glistens in its winter cloak. In the foreground and its environs, the nearby Cuyamaca Mountains sit quietly, peaks like sentinels watching over the land. Cresting out, I go down and around, the trail undulating like a flamenco dancer.
Further on, the trail plummets. The pines seem taller as they reach skyward from the darker forest floor, and the sound of water starts trickling in my ear. Not long after that, there it is: Noble Creek, a narrow ribbon running through the forest on its way to the desert. I cross over it a few times, trying not to get my shoes wet.
Photo Credit: Ana Ramirez
About midway down the trail, I arrive at the Tolkien Oak Forest (an affectionate nickname I’ve coined) waiting on the other side of one of the stream crossings. The ambient light is darker. The canopy of magnificent California Black Oaks is so thick that dappled light is all that hits the ground. I stay and quietly sit. This is my rehydration and snack spot, and it’s also where I refill my soul tank. To be here, in this moment, with these trees, is reason alone to make this 10-mile trek.
I continue, soul moderately quelled, knowing there’s more to discover still. Descending through more oaks with scattered pines that give way to desert chaparral and various cacti, I pedal methodically through the rock gardens, taking care not to crash and fall while still keeping pace. Soon, I arrive at the second place along Noble Canyon Trail that stops me in my tracks.
Photo Credit: Ana Ramirez
It feels as if I am biking through a keyhole, and, when I finally enter it, I unlock a door that opens to a stunning desert view with soaring ridgelines. Way down below, the stream is a silver snake winding its way through the hardscrabble landscape. Yuccas and beavertail cactus defy the odds, eons of evolution granting them the ability to thrive in an unforgiving landscape.
There’s no escape from the punishing sun. I pause, slathering some sunblock on my face and the back of my neck. The trail bends and meanders, ranging down and up and then down some more, with more rock gardens along the way. Decomposed granite dots the trail surface. When I reach the junction that requires me to turn left to stay on Noble Canyon Trail, I’m feeling a bit haggard, so I refuel with water and an apple, knowing a large sand trap is just around the way.
Photo Credit: Ana Ramirez
I pedal quickly past another creek up the slope to the other side, which leads me to another ethereal oak grove where the sun passes through the leaves, illuminating the canopy like a natural cathedral. I sit to take it in.
The next stretch is gradually uphill, a long couple of miles of slight incline that I call “the slog” on account of the endless sand. It’s a put-your-head-down-and-go section of trail.
Photo Credit: James Murren
Cresting out at the end of that slog, I carve my way along the trail as it passes downward through camel-colored boulders to my right and long views on my left. I continue to climb, eventually finding a manzanita forest, a gnarled, fragrant mess that always lures me in. I can never pass through without touching the trees’ silk-smooth bark.
Then, it’s all down-down-down to the parking lot, an exhilarating run. There are more oaks to admire and big rocks to navigate through, culminating in one final push, when the trail finally rolls like a soft magic carpet ride to its end point. I’m greeted by towering pines that whisper in the breeze, singing their own song.
James Murren is an award-winning adventure/travel writer, with nearly three decades of independent journalism experience. He's often having a good time in our local mountains, deserts and waters, when he's not teaching classes at SDSU.
The bike shop sits on a popular commute route and is staffed by affable mechanics who have worked the Tour de France. Hardcore bicycle people don’t have the friendliest rep, but MJ’s is different. They’ve got the skill set to equip racers, but they don’t treat commuters or parents buying bikes like tourists in their world.
Way to Become the Pickleball
PB Tennis Club
One minute you’re casually playing a game of pickleball, the next thing you know, you’ve helped design Gearbox’s newest paddle. The brand is based in San Diego and PBTC is their local court, where they play with locals to gain insights on how to improve their rackets. This sounds like free lessons to us.
Boujee Boat Picnic
Picnic Voyage
When a relative was giving away their boat, local architect Vilchis saw an opportunity to design a 10/10 Instagrammable experience. Now you can class up your day date by recreating The Notebook—a pristinely refurbished tiny boat with padded seats, plant garlands, snacks and drinks, and even parasols. Ryan Gosling not included.
Beach Volleyball Where Everyone Knows Your Name
South Mission
Each weekend on the courts of South Mission Beach, the sand is taken over by 2v2 players—many of which are ESL speakers from various countries. They’ve made this plot of sand their sacred community, where the universal language is bump, set, and spike.
Running Shop That Doubles as Bumble BFF
Milestone Run Club
On any given Wednesday on Hamilton Ave., 100 to 200 runners gather to run the streets of North Park. It’s put on by Milestone Running, a shop created by locals Greg Lemon and Chad Crawford. Go a few times and you’re pretty much guaranteed at least ten new friends—might even get “Smirnoff Iced” during the post-run raffle. You win some, you lose some.
Reward-Based Running
Waterfront Social Run Club
Even avid runners can lose motivation. This year, Waterfront introduced a new tradition: beer stops. The three- mile loop starts at Eppig Brewing in Point Loma, then heads to Fathom Bistro for a beer before completing the next 1.5 miles. Finish up with a post-run brew at Eppig, obviously.
Mission Bay Basketball Court
Madeline Yang
Sailing Lessons by Jack Sparrow Himself
Harbor Sailboats
San Diego’s maritime history runs deep. America’s Cups have a permanent home here. Harbor Sailboats—seven-time winner of the “ASA School of the Year”—offers sailing courses taught by longtime sea dogs. You know, the type of no- nonsense skippers who know how the wind will change by the way the breeze hits their beard hair.
Hikes in Real Nature
Palomar Mountain
If you want sky-high firs, oak forests that shade your path, and mountain peaks that overlook actual foliage (read: no palm tree in sight), head to Palomar Mountain State Park. And, since the inaugural California State Parks Week took place this year, there’s no better time to dust off your hiking boots on one of the six hiking trails (five for running).
An Apparently Easy Climb That’s a Lie
Mission Gorge
A mellow 5.7 climb on paper, The Tower at Mission Gorge will have you clipping the first few bolts like you’ve been dirtbagging in Yosemite all your life. You’ll have to dig deep into your courage reserves to tackle the crux, but you’ll be walking down that mountain with your head held high when the sun starts to set.
Floor Exercise
Mission Bay Basketball Court
Hoops here have always had a magical effect—a full regulation court, smack dab on the beach. The ball smells like sunscreen. No fence; out of bounds is in the sand. And it just got an artful resurfacing in honor of local basketball legend, Bill Walton—who’s been a member of the South Mission Beach Sports Park & Rec for 25 years.
Best Surf Shop Nowhere Near Water
Happy Battle Surf Co.
Yep, in City Heights. Specializing in boards from local shapers, owner Mark Polintan (who grew up on a pineapple farm in the Philippines) has created an infectious gathering place for surfers to support their peers. Like chasing tubes in exotic locations, you never know what or who you’ll find here, but you’re guaranteed to leave stoked.
Best Way to Justify Surfing All Day to Your Family
100 Wave Challenge
Surfers are selfish. No matter how many waves we catch, we always want more. And while there’s no shot we’ll ever change, we can at least direct that impulse toward a good cause. At the annual 100 Wave Challenge, participants commit to riding 100 waves in one day to raise funds for the local nonprofit Boys to Men Mentoring.
Nicolle Monico is an award-winning writer and the director of creative projects, digital editor for San Diego Magazine with more than 16 years of experience in media including Outside Run, JustLuxe and The San Francisco Chronicle.
The Best Hiking, Biking, Swimming, Trails and More in San Diego
Our go-to guide for where to hike, bike, run, swim, and get outside in San Diego. Plus: gear, clubs, classes, and more.
By Amanda Lawson, Claire Trageser, and Hilary Achauer
Bike
Top 10 San Diego Bike Paths
Biking to Cabrillo National Monument
Biking to Cabrillo National Monument | Photo by John Trice
1. Bayshore Bikeway
6.6 miles
Easy to Moderate
This route offers breathtaking views of downtown, the Silver Strand, and everything in between. Much of it is a dedicated path, but it’s primarily city streets through downtown and National City. Overall, you’ll experience a fun, flat ride, with plenty of opportunity to work on speed.
START HERE: Embarcadero
2. Fiesta Island
5 miles
easy
Ride about five miles of paved path along the water with a breeze that can help you build wind tolerance. Be careful of walkers, strollers, and pet traffic, especially on weekends.
START HERE:Dirt parking lot just off East Mission Bay Drive
3. La Jolla to Oceanside via PCH
21 miles
Moderate to Intermediate
Oh, the views from the Pacific Coast Highway! The out-and-back route includes some challenging hills and plenty of flat, fast surfaces. Watch out for the heavy car and cyclist traffic that shares this route.
START HERE: North Torrey Pines Road
4. Cabrillo National Monument
16 miles
Intermediate to Difficult
We suggest the route to Cabrillo National Monument Park beginning at Collier Park north of Voltaire Street in Ocean Beach. Cruise toward Sunset Cliffs Boulevard, turn inland at Ladera Street, and weave your way to Catalina Boulevard. Continue to Cabrillo National Monument Park, where we highly recommend you sacrifice a couple of bucks for the entrance fee.
5. Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve
40 miles
Difficult
Elfin Forest is definitely not for beginners, as it includes some super-challenging climbs (but great scenery). Starting in Del Mar, go north to Leucadia and take La Costa Avenue east. Follow it to Rancho Santa Fe Road, turn right on San Elijo Road, and right on Elfin Forest Road. For an added challenge, stay on Elfin Forest Road until it changes to Harmony Grove Road. From there, follow West Valley Parkway south to Solana Beach. Watch for areas with thin (or no) bike lanes.
START HERE: Pacific Coast Highway, Del Mar
Biking in Balboa Park
Biking in Balboa Park | Photo by John Trice
6. Rancho Santa Fe Loop
35 miles
Intermediate to Moderate
We hear this route is a popular one for the San Diego Bicycle Club each Saturday, but you can always try it on your own. Start at UC Cyclery in La Jolla, take I-5 north, then go through Sorrento Valley and back to El Camino Real. Weave your way through Rancho Santa Fe, then back to PCH and head south. Be prepared for a few climbs and narrow roads with lots of car traffic.
START HERE: UC Cyclery, La Jolla
7. Noble Canyon
20 Miles
Difficult
Noble Canyon in Cleveland National Forest is a favorite among advanced mountain bikers. Start the trek at Red Tail Roost (Laguna Mountain Visitor Center) and weave your way through to Noble Canyon Connector before finishing up at Pine Creek Picnic Area. Bring plenty of water and $5 for parking.
START HERE: Laguna Mountain Visitor Center
8. Mt. Soledad
4.6 miles (one way)
Moderate to Difficult
No matter what route you take to the top of Mt. Soledad, you’ll have to work for it. Start at the Cove for a scenic, easy warm-up along the La Jolla coast before turning left on Nautilus Street, which you’ll follow all the way to the top. The views at the top are worth every inch of the climb. Warning: If you go down steep Via Capri, you’ll need good brakes.
START HERE: La Jolla Cove
9.Tierrasanta to Scripps to Lakeside Loop
40 miles
Moderate to Difficult
This route offers a few aggressive hills and fun downhills, starting with a gradual climb to warm up on Kearny Villa Road northbound. Once you turn right onto Pomerado Road, the climbing starts. Follow Pomerado to Scripps Poway Parkway, veering slightly onto Kirkham Way, and then all the way to Highway 67. Next, a long, fast downhill takes you into Lakeside, then toward Santee to Highway 52. Finish up by going back over the hill into Tierrasanta.
START HERE: Santo Road and Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Tierrasanta
10. Highway 56
10.3 miles (one way)
Moderate
A favorite of cyclists and walkers, Highway 56 is a great, protected bike path for beginners or experienced riders who want to work on speed. We suggest parking at the intersection of Clews Ranch Road and Carmel Country Road to the west, giving you a primarily uphill ride to start and downhill on the way back. To avoid the inland heat, try this route in the early morning or during cooler months.
START HERE: Clews Ranch Road and Carmel Country Road
Tiny Goals, Big Rewards
Ironman Julie Moss learns to take it slow (for once)
Julie Moss
Julie Moss | Photo by Robert Benson
Where do you go when you’ve climbed your personal Everest? Where does inspiration come from after you have achieved your biggest dreams?
San Diego summers can be brutal. But since the hottest period is typically late summer into early fall, San Diegans still have time to prepare. The pros at Mauzy Cooling, Heating, Plumbing, and Electrical are standing by to help homeowners fortify their homes against the elements and ensure their air conditioning is as frosty as the penguins that serve as the company’s mascots.
Many homeowners underestimate the load their AC system faces, especially in the inland valleys where temperatures regularly top 100 degrees. San Diego regularly sees multi-day heatwaves each summer, and a system that struggles on the first day will likely fail by the third.Longer run times, unusual sounds or smells, and uneven cooling from room to room are all signs that your system may not survive the next hot spell.
Systems typically last 12 to 17 years, but there are exceptions. If a system is approaching that, or is already there, a professional evaluation is recommended before summer really heats up. A good rule of thumb: If you can’t remember when your system was last serviced, it’s due.
“As technology changes, systems become smarter and smarter,” says Sean O’Connor, an install manager at Mauzy with 42 years of experience. “There are a lot of people out there who will say a system’s only good for 10 years. I don’t buy that—these systems are built to last as long as they’re taken care of.”
There are also a few steps homeowners can take between services to extend the life of their system. Regularly changing a dirty filter—especially if you have kids or pets—and keeping an outdoor unit clean can help head off problems in the future, says O’Connor.
Also, be realistic about whether it’s time to replace a unit. O’Connor likens pouring money into salvaging a faulty unit with patchwork repairs and replacement parts to “tripping over a dollar to pick up a dime.” When one part fails, others are sure to follow, and newer parts may not be compatible with older units. Mauzy recommends homeowners use the 50% rule: If a repair costs more than 50% of the system’s replacement value, and the equipment is over 10 years old, replacement is usually the better long-term value. And don’t forget the ducting. An older house that was built with heat and later had air conditioning added may not have sufficient airflow, regardless of how good the system is.
Last but not least, homeowners should know who to trust when it comes to their homes. Built on three generations of professional integrity, Mauzy has grown into not just a leader for cooling, heating, plumbing, and electrical services, but a leader in the community known for supporting local nonprofits across an array of causes. To ensure complete peace of mind, Mauzy stands behind a comprehensive 12-point guarantee that outlines its commitment to outstanding service, quality equipment, expert technicians who understand how the local microclimates affect HVAC performance, and no upsells or surprises on the bill.
“We go the extra mile. That’s what sets us apart,” O’Connor says. To get a free quote today, visit mauzy.com.
The Best Hiking, Biking, Swimming, Trails and More in San Diego
Our go-to guide for where to hike, bike, run, swim, and get outside in San Diego. Plus: gear, clubs, classes, and more.
By Amanda Lawson, Claire Trageser, and Hilary Achauer
Bike
Top 10 San Diego Bike Paths
Biking to Cabrillo National Monument
Biking to Cabrillo National Monument | Photo by John Trice
1. Bayshore Bikeway
6.6 miles
Easy to Moderate
This route offers breathtaking views of downtown, the Silver Strand, and everything in between. Much of it is a dedicated path, but it’s primarily city streets through downtown and National City. Overall, you’ll experience a fun, flat ride, with plenty of opportunity to work on speed.
START HERE: Embarcadero
2. Fiesta Island
5 miles
easy
Ride about five miles of paved path along the water with a breeze that can help you build wind tolerance. Be careful of walkers, strollers, and pet traffic, especially on weekends.
START HERE:Dirt parking lot just off East Mission Bay Drive
3. La Jolla to Oceanside via PCH
21 miles
Moderate to Intermediate
Oh, the views from the Pacific Coast Highway! The out-and-back route includes some challenging hills and plenty of flat, fast surfaces. Watch out for the heavy car and cyclist traffic that shares this route.
START HERE: North Torrey Pines Road
4. Cabrillo National Monument
16 miles
Intermediate to Difficult
We suggest the route to Cabrillo National Monument Park beginning at Collier Park north of Voltaire Street in Ocean Beach. Cruise toward Sunset Cliffs Boulevard, turn inland at Ladera Street, and weave your way to Catalina Boulevard. Continue to Cabrillo National Monument Park, where we highly recommend you sacrifice a couple of bucks for the entrance fee.
5. Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve
40 miles
Difficult
Elfin Forest is definitely not for beginners, as it includes some super-challenging climbs (but great scenery). Starting in Del Mar, go north to Leucadia and take La Costa Avenue east. Follow it to Rancho Santa Fe Road, turn right on San Elijo Road, and right on Elfin Forest Road. For an added challenge, stay on Elfin Forest Road until it changes to Harmony Grove Road. From there, follow West Valley Parkway south to Solana Beach. Watch for areas with thin (or no) bike lanes.
START HERE: Pacific Coast Highway, Del Mar
Biking in Balboa Park
Biking in Balboa Park | Photo by John Trice
6. Rancho Santa Fe Loop
35 miles
Intermediate to Moderate
We hear this route is a popular one for the San Diego Bicycle Club each Saturday, but you can always try it on your own. Start at UC Cyclery in La Jolla, take I-5 north, then go through Sorrento Valley and back to El Camino Real. Weave your way through Rancho Santa Fe, then back to PCH and head south. Be prepared for a few climbs and narrow roads with lots of car traffic.
START HERE: UC Cyclery, La Jolla
7. Noble Canyon
20 Miles
Difficult
Noble Canyon in Cleveland National Forest is a favorite among advanced mountain bikers. Start the trek at Red Tail Roost (Laguna Mountain Visitor Center) and weave your way through to Noble Canyon Connector before finishing up at Pine Creek Picnic Area. Bring plenty of water and $5 for parking.
START HERE: Laguna Mountain Visitor Center
8. Mt. Soledad
4.6 miles (one way)
Moderate to Difficult
No matter what route you take to the top of Mt. Soledad, you’ll have to work for it. Start at the Cove for a scenic, easy warm-up along the La Jolla coast before turning left on Nautilus Street, which you’ll follow all the way to the top. The views at the top are worth every inch of the climb. Warning: If you go down steep Via Capri, you’ll need good brakes.
START HERE: La Jolla Cove
9.Tierrasanta to Scripps to Lakeside Loop
40 miles
Moderate to Difficult
This route offers a few aggressive hills and fun downhills, starting with a gradual climb to warm up on Kearny Villa Road northbound. Once you turn right onto Pomerado Road, the climbing starts. Follow Pomerado to Scripps Poway Parkway, veering slightly onto Kirkham Way, and then all the way to Highway 67. Next, a long, fast downhill takes you into Lakeside, then toward Santee to Highway 52. Finish up by going back over the hill into Tierrasanta.
START HERE: Santo Road and Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Tierrasanta
10. Highway 56
10.3 miles (one way)
Moderate
A favorite of cyclists and walkers, Highway 56 is a great, protected bike path for beginners or experienced riders who want to work on speed. We suggest parking at the intersection of Clews Ranch Road and Carmel Country Road to the west, giving you a primarily uphill ride to start and downhill on the way back. To avoid the inland heat, try this route in the early morning or during cooler months.
START HERE: Clews Ranch Road and Carmel Country Road
Tiny Goals, Big Rewards
Ironman Julie Moss learns to take it slow (for once)
Julie Moss
Julie Moss | Photo by Robert Benson
Where do you go when you’ve climbed your personal Everest? Where does inspiration come from after you have achieved your biggest dreams?
I am fairly sure they don’t let you graduate from Carlsbad High School without a W-2 from Legoland. Being a Legoland MC (Model Citizen, the employee’s moniker) is a rite of passage for all of us who grew up in North County. If you spent a day at the theme park in the 2010s, I probably pointed you toward the Granny Apple Fries or measured your height at a ride entrance.
And now we meet again. I can still point you to quality fries.
This is my first full issue as the new print editor for San Diego Magazine. But it’s not my first time here: I was an editorial intern for these pages back in 2018 (see photo). To be a part of a constant study of the city, its people, its culture, then finding the most compelling stories and bringing them to life—it was incredibly impactful and solidified my decision to pursue all of this (local, print magazine journalism) as a career. Since my internship, I’ve gotten my bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the Missouri School of Journalism and worked for nearly five years at Backpacker magazine. And I’m back at San Diego Magazine, baby. There’s a real magic to narrating the lives lived and dreams dreamt in the place that built me. I am excited to be a part of building the culture of where I’m from. And, born in Tri-City Medical Center and raised in Carlsbad, I can’t think of any other place than our North County issue for me to make my grand entrance as an editor.
To me, North County isn’t just where I’m from; it’s home. Throughout the years, I have run thousands of miles (I did the math) up and down the 101 between Oceanside and Cardiff. I’ve spent thousands of dollars (an estimation, too painful to do the actual math) on BRCs—beans, rice, and cheese burritos—from Lola’s, Juanita’s, and the late, great Pollos Maria.
The stretch of land between Camp Pendleton and the 56 is easy to love. We’re quieter and a little more zenned out than our lower-latitude neighbors, sure, but we’re neither sleepy nor boring.
Do you think Scrojo, the Belly Up’s punked-out poster artist featured on page 68, could last a day somewhere boring?
What I’ve always loved about North County is that the culture shifts every couple of miles as you reach a new town. For years, the media seemed to cast the realm above the merge as a two-toned monolith: sleepy surf towns to the west, suburbs and country living to the east. The nuance of each section seemed flattened or clumped. I think you’ll see the vastly different cultures of North County in this issue—but all distinctly San Diego. Which is to say a little mellower, fewer airs, come as you are.
It’s hard to imagine that the dusty trails and vibrant, muraled alleyways of Escondido are just miles from the barefoot surfers roaming Leucadia. Even though the SDM editorial staff is made up of two lifelong locals and other longtime residents, we don’t pretend to be the experts on every street. What a good city media company does is find the people who are experts, who have a unique hyper-local perspective—and give them the stage.
So we picked six North County neighborhoods—Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos, Leucadia, Rancho Santa Fe, and Escondido—and reached out to artists, community leaders, business owners, anyone making their neighborhood brighter, and we had them describe their perfect day out and favorite things that give their neighborhoods meaning and culture. These itinerary curators included San Marcos’ Patricia Prado-Olmos, Leucadia’s Jeff Schade, Oceanside’s Aaron Crossland, Escondido’s Suzanne Nicolaisen, Rancho Santa Fe’s Charo Garcia-Acevedo, and Vista’s Steve Glaudini. If there’s anyone who lives and breathes North County, it’s them. Check out their recommendations in our feature on page 56.
This month, we’re also going back in time almost 15 years to the Big Bay Boom. Yes, that meme-ified Fourth of July fireworks show where enough pyrotechnics for a 17-minute show went off at once over San Diego Bay. Content Chief Troy Johnson remembers the day and dug back through the story for a hilarious locals’ take on the big debate: Was it the worst fireworks show of all time, or the greatest? (Page 38.)
Before I leave you to our hard work, a sentimental note. When my parents moved from St. Louis to San Diego in the early ’90s, my mom subscribed to San Diego Magazine to learn about her new neighborhood. Now, over three decades later, I’m here—on this planet and in these pages. I thought about my parents a lot as we worked on this issue. Maybe there are a couple new San Diegans reading this magazine for the first time. Maybe that’s you.
Well then, to both of us, I say, “Welcome.” Let’s do this.
Emma Veidt is an editor at San Diego Magazine. She earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from the Missouri School of Journalism. She loves running, hiking, and rock climbing, but really, she mostly loves encounters with the street cats around North Park.
Daniel A. Kaplan is a founding partner of Panakos LLP with more than three decades of civil litigation experience in both state and federal courts. Mr. Kaplan pursues and defends legal claims on behalf of companies, entrepreneurs, and business owners in high-stakes disputes. He focuses on business disputes including breach of contract, unfair competition, trade secret theft, securities disputes, fraud/misrepresentations, and employment matters.
“The best advocacy combines preparation, perspective, and a client relationship built on trust and candor.” — Daniel A. Kaplan
His clients include real estate investors, private and public corporations, and individuals seeking sophisticated legal counsel. Known for practical judgment and strategic advocacy, he works closely with an experienced and diverse legal team to protect, enforce, and defend his clients’ interests.
555 W. Beech Street, Ste. 500, San Diego, California 92101 619-8000-LAW Panakos.law
