March 2009 Archives
Specials All over Town in Rancho Santa Fe
Machel’s Ranch
Okay, we know we are in a recession. What I want to know is what are you personally doing to support the economy for our local businesses? If you are like me, you too, have felt the crunch on your wallet. You may be staying in and avoiding eating out and making more dinners at home. You may even be scaling back on your grocery bill in ways you never knew were possible to save. I have never been a ‘coupon cutter’, however, don’t be surprised if you see a few tucked inside my purse these days. Don’t be surprised if you see me checking out the specials in the grocery aisles with intense concentration on which bargain can maximize my dollar to its fullest.
With my own habits changing over the last six months, I began to wonder how the local restaurants are in Rancho Santa Fe are combating this down economy in 2009. What I found out is there are many opportunities to save money with ‘specials’ being offered all over town.
My first stop—Mille Fleurs. Marko Dedic, a manager, was quite informative of one of their newest offerings for residents to enjoy. I’m sure you have heard of Bistro night on Wednesdays, but what about Tapas nights on Tuesdays? Starting this month at 7:30 p.m., you can enjoy ‘finger foods’ off a separate menu for a fraction of the price of their standard dinner entrees. According to Marko, this will be an evening to enjoy mid week: “We will be playing European House lounge music in the background, while friends and family can mingle in the dining area enjoying our newest hot night out. We also have a wonderful selection of wine by the glasses to compliment Tapas Tuesdays.” When I arrived on March 17th, the restaurant was already overflowing from word of mouth networking for their first big evening. I must admit, this has always been my favorite evening out. Now I have more reason to celebrate, fabulous food at an economical price. Please don’t let me persuade you not to enjoy their regular menu. With Chef Martin Woesle’s fantastic entrée’s and Bertrand Hug’s charming manner, this dynamic duo has landed them in the coveted spot listed in the top 25 restaurants in America.
Down the street, Delicias Restaurant has undergone some management changes recently, when Tyler Williams came aboard. I must say I can already see a positive change in the atmosphere at one of the other hottest places in town. With their ‘hamburger night’ on Thursdays, this is another reason to avoid cooking dinner and dealing with dirty dishes. Their price is affordable and a fun. Did you know you can also enjoy cold draft beer on tap? Delicias has Coorslight, Blue Moon Belgium Ale and Firestone DBA available to residents that don’t feel like driving out of their comfort zone. One of their other specials is a ‘poached rack of lamb’ which is a favorite’s, according to Tyler.
My third stop was to the newest of upscale restaurants added to the Ranch: Decanter located in the beautiful shopping center in Cielo. Jayson Knack, the owner informed me that their attendance in their first five weeks of business has been very impressive. With steak tartar as an appetizer and fresh scallops and risotto, you can eat luxuriously, while enjoying the beautiful view of the mountains. They also boast a wine flight featuring five California wines for a nominal price. Are you a light night eater? Decanter serves a full menu until 10:00 p.m. and a limited menu until 11:00 p.m. Check out this hottest edition to fabulous reasons to support the local restaurants in town. Be wise, but don’t be a fool by living your life in fear when what your local community needs most is your support.
Around Town
On March 13th, I found some gorgeous women celebrating life downtown in Rancho Santa Fe. I ran into Karian Forsyth, Terri Nichols and Sacha Boutros enjoying the night life, even though it was Friday the Thirteenth. By the smiles on their faces, it doesn’t look like these women are superstitious at all. Kariane, informed me that her business is thriving during the down economy—The Right One. Rumors have it that she recently turned down a reality show on Bravo just to keep her integrity of her business and clients. Now that is what I call a ‘real class act in the Ranch’. If you would like to find out more details on how you can find your love match, check out www.therightone.com. If I wasn’t already getting married this summer, you can bet I would be her first and foremost client.
On March 14th, Patricia Savarese shared some wonderful news about a fashion boutique located just around the corner in Solana Beach, located right across the street from Fidel’s restaurant. With over 20 years of experience, Lili Zafar has opened Lilipeach House of Fashion. All items are guaranteed for uniqueness, fabric quality and durability. Every Monday through Wednesday, Lilipeach will be hosting an open house at the store from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. On Thursdays they will be serving drinks and appetizers. You may call to make an appointment or simply stop in. Lili would love to see you there! Thanks Pat, for letting me share this information in my column. The store is located at 742 Genevieve Street, Suite G, Solana Beach; 858-449-5539 .
On March 16th, local resident and sought after realtor informed me of some hot news going on in Indian Wells. Shannon was in the desert with her client, Jelena Jankovic, tennis pro. Thanks to Shannon, Ms. Jankovic has re-located to Rancho Santa Fe recently. Shannon and Jankovic are ‘sunning, exercising and training for the next tournament in Florida next week. Ms. Jankovic’s permit just went through and will be breaking ground soon. I will be one of the few that will get to see the architect plans on this celebrity’s dream home! For more information on this story, check out Shannon’s personal website: www.shannonbiszantz.com and look under “community blog” for more juicy details on this hot story. Thank for sharing your picture Shannon.
On March 19th, Tom Billick, owner of Cardiff Classics invited me down to his dealership to check out his latest inventory. Last year, Tom donated one of his luxury sport cars to Rady’s Children’s hospital. This year, he is donating the use of one of these speed demons to The Del Mar Horse show. His business has been around for almost twenty years. Married to another business owner in North County, Betty Jo, they are one of the few married couples in this area two manage and operate two separate businesses. Talk about rock star material. What you may not know is that Cardiff Classics specializes in consignment and locating any kind of car for his clients. If you don’t have time to visit a dealer, let Tom do all of the ‘leg work’ in buying a car. Ask me, I know. After recently buying a car myself, I hope the next time around I can go to Cardiff Classics and ask Tom for his help. He also specializes in European and Sport Cars. For more information, check out www.cardiffclassics.com . Thanks for the fabulous scoop Tom.
If you would like Machel Penn to cover any upcoming events, please e-mail her at mpenn@coastnewsgroup.com.
Be positive now
At this moment in time, everyone including myself is feeling the economy crunch. What can one do to stay positive and upbeat, when there is so much negativity in the press and the media with what is going on around us? I’m not asking one to check out. Rather, check in with what is currently happening around you and in your immediate circumstances. It’s useless to worry about situations and ‘what if’s', when NOW is the only tangible moment. What we can do, is find courage, thought provoking images to shift what might feel threatening in your own immediate life.
At this moment in time, I could report to you about some current situations that feel threatening to my immediate life. What I want to tell you is that the sun is shining. My son is healthy. I have two hands and two legs. My health is excellent and I have a wonderful family. During times that pressure your soul, remember to count every blessing you can think of to ward off any negative thoughts.
This life is but a gift. I am here to tell that each encounter, workplace, friends, experiences, rejoice in your moments of living. You must find the courage right now to think above and beyond what you hear. You must visualize a better future. I am telling you this, because if I hear one more person tell me how terrible it is in life while they are living in a free country, looking healthy, while shopping at beautiful supermarkets and the means to fight off disease with endless over the counter medicines, pharmacies, doctors, hospitals, I might scream. Look abroad to real tragedy before you find pity with the soft economy. Do something about it, instead of whining. Be active in your community. Be the person that is uplifting in conversation for a change. Find a moment to think before you perpetuate ‘hard times’.
I am here to tell you that this, too, shall pass. We must remember that when we hit rock bottom, that many good things spring from losing it all and starting all over again.
Cheers to you, if you are thankful. If you see me on the street, please stop and say hello.
Sincerely,
Machel
Inside Next Week’s Machel’s Ranch in the Rancho Santa Fe
Don’t miss the latest in hottest gossip and local stories in one of the most affluent communities in the United States: Rancho Santa Fe. I will reveal three favorite local restaurants with their latest and greatest specials to combat the recession. Also, find out what famous women’s tennis pro just became a Ranch resident and which Realtor help seal the deal.
Pick up the March 27th issue to find out what rumors are true, and who is the sexiest matchmaker in town.
Stay Tuned to Machel’s Ranch to find out what happens next under the Eucalyptus trees of the life styles of the rich and wealthy.
~Machel Penn
“The caterpillar does all the work but the butterfly gets all the publicity.”
**George Carlin
Continue reading Inside Next Week’s Machel’s Ranch in the Rancho Santa Fe
Jason Mesnick the most hated Bachelor? Why? Go Molly and Jason…
‘The Bachelor’ finale draws mixed emotions
Were you one of the 15.5 million viewers that tuned in March 2 to watch the finale of the latest “The Bachelor” on ABC? I was. For the last six weeks, my Monday nights have been dedicated to a reality show. I know that sounds completely ridiculous. I must confess, this is the first season of “The Bachelor” I have ever watched. Guess what? I’ve haven’t been so excited to watch a television show since “Gilligan’s Island.”
Did you see the ending? Well, not the official ending of Jason Mesnick frolicking in the pool with Melissa Rycoft. I’m talking about the second segment where he breaks off his engagement and begs for contestant No. 2, Molly Malaney, to take him back. Can you say “oops”?
Well, if you haven’t been watching, let me tell you, women were outraged. Check out the message board online. This man has gone from being the favorite contestant of all time to being the worst (not according to me). What viewers at home have failed to remember is the major factor in this equation: he’s only human.
Aren’t people allowed to make mistakes? He reneged on his engagement. So what? In regular life, I’m pretty certain this type of switcheroo happens quite often. Haven’t you ever heard that old saying, “You don’t know what you have until it’s gone?” This is what happened to Mr. Mesnick. I’m quite touched by the ending. How Molly’s fantasy of Jason coming back for her became her “reality.” Let us not forget, engagements are exactly that, a period to make sure both parties are ready for marriage. Mr. Mesnick pleaded guilty before too much time had passed. He bowed out. How can he be criticized for that? Why can’t these women that find fault with Mr. Mesnick’s blunder remember that as young children we never found out what happened after the prince rescued their princess from the tower? Maybe the princess snagged her hose on the way down and prince charming had a drinking problem. Many times life doesn’t always work out the way we think it should. We want to stick with the happy ending. Now if I recall correctly, some wonderful moments did materialize from this disaster on finale of “The Bachelor.”
If you watched that Monday night you might have witnessed one girl’s dream coming true in America, while another girl’s dream ended. So often we focus on the negative. But the moral of this love story — said best by Woody Allen — is “The heart wants what the heart wants.” We don’t always know why we feel a certain way. The mystery behind the word “love” is oh so fabulous.
Don’t pity Melissa from Dallas too much. She is getting her 15 minutes of fame. A previous Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader, you know she’ll bounce back with enthusiasm. Her confidence and containment impressed me. I don’t know if I could’ve acted as cool under that type of scrutiny.
What is the moral of this love story? Give the guy a break. Jason Mesnick could have done what the viewers expected him to do, instead he followed his heart. Would you take a risk to find true love? He did. Well, for the moment anyway. You never know, he might decide after watching the next “Bachelorette” that Jillian Harris was the one that got away. Let’s just hope that Jason and Molly enjoy the romantic rain in Seattle. If you haven’t guessed, I’m a sucker for romance. Maybe this new couple will visit the Ranch and I can feature them in my “Around town.” Now look who is dreaming.
Around town
On Feb. 27, I met Teresa O’Connor, Elaine and Dave Dawrin at the beautiful Estancia Hotel in La Jolla to discuss their upcoming event “The Magic of Music” for the San Diego Chamber Orchestra. The event will celebrate the 25th anniversary of this fabulous organization in San Diego. Jeff Skinner, Kiwi Audio Visual’s warehouse manager, was also on hand to help supervise the audio visual effects for this festive event. More than 200 guests are expected to attend this gala. The night shall include a sit-down dinner during a live auction. One of the featured items on the list is a four-night stay in a the winner’s choice of destination: Los Cabos, Mexico; Scottsdale, Ariz.; or Snowmass, Colorado’s Exclusive Residence Club. This luxury trip is valued at $10,000! For more information on this upcoming March event, or to reserve your tickets, go to www.sdco.org.
Later that day, I noticed a celebration taking place in front of the Rancho Santa Fe Library. Speaking with Carol Andrews, she informed me this event was for customer appreciation and an open house to all of their members. To celebrate this occasion, they invited a local band — Billy Lee and the Swamp Critters — on a gorgeous sunny Friday in the Ranch. “Not only did we celebrate the open house with our residents, we introduced this wonderful jazz band to our community.” If you have signed up for your local library card, it’s never too late to relive your childhood days inside the cover of a book. Better yet, you don’t have to pay $14.99 for a book you may never read again.
On Feb. 28, I met my good friend Meredith MacDonald at my favorite lunch place, The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. Little did we know, a local couple, the now Mr. and Mrs. Robert Crull, would be celebrating their wedding reception exactly where we love to sit on Saturdays. We had to move down to the bench to enjoy our teas, while our children played in the sun. I was lucky enough to meet two members of the wedding party though: Alexis and Robert Cambell. Their mother Priscilla Cambell beamed with pride, while I snapped a quick photo of these gorgeous children. Our day at The Inn felt magical with hints of romance in the air, while family and friends celebrated the new beginnings on hot Saturday afternoon. That’s why it’s always nice to go downtown. You never know who you might run into …
On March 2, I heard from Tad Sisler, one of Rancho Santa Fe’s most talented performers. He was kind enough to share with me his latest schedule of where he will performing over the next few months. Here are his performance dates coming up: Wednesday nights at Mille Fleurs at 8 p.m., Thursday at the La Costa Resort in the Blue Fire Grill at 6 p.m. and Friday and Saturday night you can find “sizzling” Tad just around the corner at Tuscany in Carlsbad. For more information on these performance locations, you can reach Tad at (760) 929-8111 .
Later that day, I found Paseo Delicias under construction. Getting to school that morning was not your typical drive through town. With the roads marked with detour signs, traffic was rerouted Monday and Tuesday, while this main street received some very much needed upgrades. I snapped a photo of these guys hard at work early that morning.
On March 4, I received news from PacifiKai Salon and Spa about their March “Economic Stress Reliever Package.” Where do I sign up? You can receive a Swedish massage for only $42, which is a 50 percent discount off their normal price. Women can look sexier this month with a $45 haircut. Think Jennifer Aniston here. Do you remember how her haircut literally made her a household name in the early ‘90s? It’s never too late to spice up your appearance at any age. This promotion expires at the end of the month. To find out about other ways you can pamper yourself supporting your local economy while improving your appearance, check out www.PacifiKaiSalon.com or call (858) 720-0724 .
Continue reading Jason Mesnick the most hated Bachelor? Why? Go Molly and Jason…
