May 7th, 2015 at 11:00 am
Has granite lost its luster as the kitchen countertop of choice? Despite advancements in countertop materials, and to paraphrase Mark Twain, reports of granite’s death appear to be greatly exaggerated.
A kitchen favorite for decades, the natural stone isn’t always the first choice for younger homeowners, who might associate it with older generations’ kitchens. Many are opting for other surfaces, which in recent years have come a long way in matching granite’s strength and durability.
With more countertop choices available, some homeowners are using more than one type in their kitchen design. A food-prep area, where cleanup and bacteria resistance are concerns, might call for quartz. And granite might be best in a space used for serving because it is the most heat-resistant. So it isn’t unusual to surface an island in one material and the perimeter in another.
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May 7th, 2015 at 9:00 am
Author: Nate Chapnick
Information provided by: Riviera San Diego
Image courtesy of sippakorn / Shutterstock.com
Exotic Beauty: 2015 Aston Martin Vanquish
Aston Martin’s flagship supercar, the Vanquish, is a whole new animal for 2015. A revised 6.0-liter V12 engine puts out 568 horsepower, making this the most powerful GT production engine in Aston Martin’s history. A state-of-the-art Touchtronic III automatic transmission provides gearshifts that are faster and smoother than ever before, launching the Vanquish from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds on its way to an incredible 201 mph top speed. Inside, the hand-built Vanquish offers the finest in bespoke British luxury with over 100,000 potential interior specifications, while also showcasing the latest technology such as glass capacitive touch buttons. Exotic ingredients abound, from a crystal key fob to carbon fiber body panels and carbon ceramic brakes, making this Aston Martin one irresistible treat. Released just in time for the spring and summer driving seasons, the $284,995 2015 Vanquish can be found at your local Aston Martin dealer now.
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May 6th, 2015 at 3:00 pm
If you enjoy watching or flying kites, head to Ocean Beach for an afternoon of fun. The 67th Annual Ocean Beach Kite Festival is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club and offers an afternoon of more than just watching the kites fly. Not only can you bring your kite, but the event will also feature a kite-building station. Prizes will be awarded throughout the day. Fly your new or brought kite and play games like Chase the Tail, Candy Drop, and Races. A carnival, street fair, and live entertainment round out the activities.
Where:
Sunset Cliffs Boulevard
San Diego, CA 92107
When:
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May 6th, 2015 at 1:00 pm
A brand-new event is heading to Santa Barbara this spring. Presented by Downtown Santa Barbara, Blues Cruise BBQ packs fun for the whole family. The May 16 fundraiser kicks off at 5 p.m. with a delicious BBQ dinner. After everyone has eaten their fill, the classic and antique cars arrive. The event closes with live blues entertainment from Lookin’ for Trouble at Casa De La Guerra.
Where:
Downtown Santa Barbara
De La Guerra Place
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
When:
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May 6th, 2015 at 11:00 am
Imagery courtesy of Travel Bug / Shutterstock.com.
Mariachi, a form of folk music from Mexico, came to popularity in the 19th and 20th centuries. It gained national popularity during the 20th century when played during presidential inaugurations and on the radio. Oxnard visitors and residents can attend the Annual Mariachi Festival on May 9 for a sample of history. The concert begins at 2 p.m. followed by a dinner and dance at 7 p.m.
Where:
Oxnard Performing Arts and Convention Center
800 Hobson Way
Oxnard, CA 93030
When:
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