The Flipside by Alternative Strategies

The Punctual Bird Gets the Worm

How To Get To Work On Time

The temptation to sleep in on a cold winter morning runs rampant, and few are safe from tardy-to-work syndrome. Generally speaking, alarm clocks don’t seem to be enough (otherwise, we would all be on time). You can blame the moody weather, the cozy warmth of a memory foam mattress, or a holiday movie marathon as the culprits for your delay, but we doubt your boss will enjoy these excuses. Instead, examine and realize the reality of your work preparation habits, and plan accordingly.

Prepare the night before, by laying out your outfit for the next day. Make sure you take care of your ironing before you hit the hay. For the ladies, it doesn’t hurt to have your jewelry, makeup and hair styling equipment laid out. These moments might seem insignificant, but when you add up five minutes here and five minutes there, you are already running ten minutes late!

Avoid excuses like “My dog ate my keys.” Keep a designated spot for your keys and wallet so you won’t be scrambling to find them in the morning. Put all of the next day’s necessary materials in your bag or briefcase the night before, so that you can make a speedy exit out the door.

Put your ducks in a row. Pack your lunch and prepare your coffee maker in the moonlight hours. Setting your coffee maker to begin brewing a few minutes before you are to wake will send delicious aromas wafting around the house, giving you something to roll out of bed for.

Fuel up in advance. Many people wait to get gas on their way to work, and inevitably get stuck waiting behind countless cars with the same idea. If you want to make it to work on time, and you don’t want to be implicated in a gas pump gauntlet, take a drive to the station and fill up your tank the evening before.

Carpool. Carpooling will help you to be prompt in two ways: not only will another person be relying on you to be on the dot and ready, but adding another person to your car will allow you to utilize the HOV (high occupancy vehicle) lane, which will speed up your drive time.

Trick yourself. Set your clocks ahead by a few minutes. With your brain working ahead of time, you will certainly pick up the pace.

Give yourself incentives to get out of bed. Something tasty and nutritious to look forward to in the morning, whether it’s a hot cup of coffee or a grapefruit waiting in the fridge, will wake up your senses and prevent you from shuffling back to bed. Overestimate. Estimate your travel time to get to work, and add on 25 percent. If your commute takes 30 minutes, give yourself a good 40. That way, you will get to work relaxed and unflustered. Worst caste scenario, you get to work early, impress your boss, and have a few extra minutes to check your email or get settled.

Controversy Over the Pledge of Allegiance

Local News:

Sorry Seattle, We Roast the Best Coffee

It looks like Seattle is no longer known for having the best coffee. Local coffee shop, Bird Rock Coffee Roasters, was just announced the best small coffee roaster in the United States by Coffee Trade Magazine.  Slurp on that, Seattle! Located across the street from Starbucks and brewing coffee since 2000, Bird Rock is the new home away from home for coffee enthusiasts.

Regional News:

California Unemployment Rate Dips to 11.9%

California continues to have the second highest unemployment rate in the United States, behind Nevada at 13.4% unemployment. California has added  a total of 11,800 nonfarm jobs, yet employment rates continue to be excessive. A federal survey indicated that there has been an increase in the number of people employed (85,000 more than in August). The number of people receiving unemployment benefits has also dipped slightly over the past several months.

 

National News:

Air Force Veteran Angry That Daughter's School is Asking Her to Recite the Pledge of Allegiance

A Seattle Veteran is outraged that her daughter's school has recently announced that they will be asking children to recite the pledge of allegiance at the start of every school day. Veteran Haley Sides moved to Seattle so her daughter could attend John Stanford International School, which promotes the same multiculturalism that Sides has tried to instill within her daughter. She believes that since the school promotes thinking globally, there is no reason they should be taught that an allegiance lies directly within the United States.

 

World News:

Prisoners Reportedly Escape After 7.2 Magnitude Quake Hits Eastern Turkey

A 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit Eastern Turkey on Sunday, causing hundreds of buildings to collapse and leading inmates to flee local prisons. At least 88 people were killed, and major panic sparked Turkey’s streets. Concern is not being put on the number of inmates who have fled prisons, rather, residents are worried about the destruction and have spoken openly about needing immediate aid. Turkey's largest city, Istanbul, lies near a fault line and residents have been frequently warned that overcrowding of the city and shoddy construction will lead to the death of tens of thousands of people should a major quake strike.

The Checklist for October 14th

With a certain spooky holiday just around the corner, there is no better time to get bundled up with your loved ones and partake in some of San Diego’s fall festivities. Check these out for a spooky taste of fall:

Fallbrook Pumpkin Patch
1509 East Mission Road
Fallbrook, CA 92028
www.LavenderHillPumpkins.com

Find an old-fashioned pumpkin picking experience at the Fallbrook Pumpkin Patch through October 31^st.  Cradled in a grove of pecan trees, pumpkins of all shapes and sizes (up to 300lbs, and might we suggest not picking that one) surround you.  Your only task is choosing which one (or two, or five, or ten) that you’ll take home.

12^th Annual San Diego Asian Film Festival
http://sdaff.org/festival/2011/

 Experience Asian culture on the big screen at San Diego’s 12^th Asian Film Festival. As one of the largest exhibitions of Asian international and Asian American cinema in North America, this festival features an array of spectacular films, including documentaries, narrative features, short films and animation.  Tickets range from $7.50-$125. Visit the website at http://sdaff.org/festival/2011/ for viewing schedules and venue locations.

 

Halloween Spooktacular at Sea World
500 SeaWorld Drive
San Diego, CA 92109
http://seaworldparks.com/en/seaworld-sandiego/Events/Halloween%20Spooktacular

Experience an ocean of Sea World fun every weekend until October 31st at Sea World’s spooktacular event.  It is sure to be crawling (and swimming) with ghouls and goblins. Spooktacular weekends include frightening frenzies of family friendly 3D films, photo ops, trick or treating with Sea World characters, and so much more. This weekend getaway allows all ages to explore an enthralling underwater Halloween extravaganza like never before (say hello to your inner child).

El Camino Super Cocina

For those of you who suffer from the travel itch but can’t find the time or cash to get away this summer: “no es problema!” El Camino Super Cocina in Little Italy is a Mexican holiday in and of itself.

Upon entering El Camino Super Cocina, you will be transported to a microcosmic south of the border celebration of Día de los Muertos. Elaborate artwork by Juan Tocayo and Exist 1981 graces the walls, depicting images of “la vida y la muerta” (the living and the dead) in a unique blend of pop art meets Mexican folk art.

 

The décor is alluring eye candy worthy of a grand fiesta. Grinning skeletons in traditional dress, gung ho lasso-wielding caballeros, Mexican rose motifs, and whimsical light fixtures in the shape of pigs are seen throughout the festive lounge. The ceiling is bedecked in a patchwork of vibrant colors, painted stars, and half-decipherable words to lift your eyes and your spirits.  Also drawing eyes toward the sky: the spacious patio swathed in twinkling lights.

While amusements like air hockey and vintage editions of Mrs. Pacman and Donkey Kong keep hands occupied, taste buds will find entertainment in complementary tortilla chips, grilled chiles, and a trio of delicious salsas. Sipping on fruity sangria or Mexican beer in a glass cowboy boot, the parades and carnivals of The Day of the Dead are never far off.

 

Quirky, lively, and wonderfully unpretentious, El Camino Super Cocina is delightful for foodies and art-lovers eyes alike. If you’re craving an escape from the mundane, El Camino Super Cocina is a fiesta you don’t want to miss.

Boy Meets Buck

Before you go traveling abroad, an endless supply of books, articles, and people will do their best to prepare you for your impending experience.  From buying international health insurance to carrying multiple copies of your passport, any seasoned traveler knows that the key to a successful trip is to be prepared.  Preparations aside, sometimes this isn’t possible.

So one day, you’re bicycling through the middle of an African safari with your closest friends (your parents always instructed you to travel in groups, so you assume you’re safe), and as you’re just peddling along, this happens:

 

Did anyone tell him not to bicycle around antelopes? We're sure the books must have mentioned that this was a possibility? We guess this isn’t totally unexpected (no wait . . . it is totally unexpected), but when you’re cruising around on an African Safari, the wildlife usually doesn’t become interactive.  A plus side: this wasn’t a lion (the chances of survival may have become slightly slimmer).

For the record, Evan van der Spuy, the 16-year-old biker from this video is A-OK . . . but he did suffer from whiplash, and had a concussion. 

That said, safe travels.

For an article about this video, read this:

South African Cyclist Hit By Antelope While Mountain Biking

How to Prepare for Your Dream Job

When it comes to getting your dream job, thinking ahead of the game is crucial. While some might say the early bird gets the worm, we say (and strongly believe) the prepared job candidate gets the job.

Lay the Track: Assuming your dream job has changed from becoming Superman or a zookeeper (not bad career choices, now that we think about it), it is important to envision where you see yourself in the future so that you can lay down the tracks that will begin your journey. If unsure of what you want to do, focusing your interests on a college degree that allows for broad career opportunities may be a good choice for you (Business Administration, Communication, etc.).

Gain Experience: Although classes will help to prepare your for your chosen field, internships and other forms of hands-on experience are a must. Particularly in our current economy, interning becomes increasingly important. A substantial resume is what potential employers are looking for. In some cases, you may be lucky enough to be offered a job after your internship is successfully completed.

Find a Mentor: Having someone you look up to in the industry you’re pursuing is always helpful. Looking at their work, their portfolio, how they handle business, and being able to ask for advice will make you better equipped to go forward with your career goals.

Be Smart: There is no need to the brightest crayon in the box, but avoid making common errors. Employment agencies will more or less agree that the following examples are typical reason(s) a candidate is not hired:

-          Spelling errors or poor grammar in a resume

-          Inability to clearly express thoughts and discuss achievements

-          Lack of enthusiasm; appearing bored or indifferent to the position being discussed

-          At attitude that is over-bearing, overly aggressive, or aloof

-          Showing too much interest in a higher grade or salary than that which is being offered

Booze Bears and One Lucky City

Local News:

Occupy San Diego Movement Marches On

Nearly 1,000 protestors gathered together on Saturday to participate in a march and rally to protest corporate greed – “banging on bongo drums, strumming guitars and chanting their way down the Civic Center Plaza to Balboa Park and back.” More than a week has gone by and the Occupy San Diego Movement members continue to grace the streets with their presence – get off the 163 so we can continue living our lives, please?

 

Regional News:

Police Warn of Teens Eating Vodka-Soaked Gummy Bears

Police departments have begun to warn parents about a new way teens are consuming alcohol: gummy bears. “Booze bears,” as they’re called, are becoming a nationwide problem after videos uploaded to You Tube provided the how-to behind boozing up gummy bears.

Teens have started soaking gummy bears in vodka (a process that takes about 1-2 days) and consuming them like candy, causing them to get drunk dangerously fast. From Jell-O shots to Booze Bears, underage drinking seems to be taking a strangely sweet path.

National News:

San Diego Ranked Luckiest Town in US

Feeling lucky? According to recent rankings, San Diego has been named the luckiest city in the United States. This sunny city won the top spot in Men’s Health Magazine’s list of 100 Luckiest Towns. 

Judging was based on an analysis of cities with the most lottery and sweepstake winners, the most hole-in-ones on golf courses, the fewest lightning strikes, and more chance happenings.  San Diego is followed closely by Baltimore, Maryland: Phoenix, Arizona: Wilmington, Delaware and Richmond, Virginia.

 

World News:

Spewing Volcano Forces Spain To Close Island Port

Underwater volcano activity off the coast of Spain has led Spanish authorities to close access to island port El Hierro. Ships have been ordered away from the port, and planes are no longer able to fly over the island’s Southern rim. Six-hundred residents of the island’s port were evacuated as a safety precaution. Our thoughts go out to all of those in this area and we hope to see the volcanic activity die down very soon!

Blue Whales and Brew Tales

With the hustle and bustle of everyday life around us constantly, maybe it’s a good idea to take some time and relax (and we don’t mean catching up on work). Whether you prefer to be sipping on some Pinot Grigio with friends, or enjoying a classic art exhibit, this weekend’s upcoming activities are sure to bring some entertaining relaxation into your life. 

 

Summer’s Finest Beer & Wine Festival Tasting
http://www.lajollawinetours.com/

Head out to La Jolla through October 16^th to taste delicious flavors provided by La Jolla Wine Tours. From Beer & Wine Walking Tours to Wine Train Tours, there is something to satisfy everyone. All tastings are paired with delicious fruits, cheeses, and other bites. Let loose and let La Jolla Wine Tours guide you! Tickets range from $68-$138.

 

Whale Watching Cruises: Blue Whales
http://www.sdnhm.org/education/whales/#bluewhale

Sea life lovers, advance! Take a wave-break from Facebook and get flooded with all that the ocean has to offer! Join the San Diego Natural History Museum Whalers through October 16^th for a 6-hr cruise to see these beautiful (and blue – are they actually blue?) creatures. Enthusiasts will learn all there is to know about whales and other marine life while on board this offshore adventure. Don’t miss out; tickets range from $50-$80

Art and Fashion Exhibition
http://www.timkenmuseum.org/

There is a time and place for $1,200 Louboutin heels, and this may be one of them.  Visit the Timken Museum of Art at Balboa Park through October 31^st to check out the newest in fall fashions, all provided by six highlighted designers.  Each piece is inspired by the museum’s permanent collection, and was created by local students and graduates from Fashion Careers College (FCC). Tickets are free.

Searsucker

Searsucker, yes, we know the name is strange. Located in the heart of The Gaslamp District, Searsucker lies on the hub of the busiest street (5^th Ave.) and continually attracts both locals and non-locals alike. Making a name for itself with top-notch fine American cuisine and a trendy atmosphere, Searsucker has made its way to becoming a neighborhood favorite.

With Chef Malarkey in the kitchen, the menu is far from boring, creating an array of items with local flare (and bizarre names)!

How to:

 

1. Start your night off right with some of Searsucker’s delicious small bites (perfect for sharing!) Combining unique flavors and textures creates the perfect beginning for any night out. We suggest sharing the “clams, fennel, tomato + smoked salmon” and the “brie + blackberry +orange +rosemary” – don’t let the names fool you, these small bites are delicious!
2. Your entrée – chose from an array of wonderful entrees. From the sea to the farm, there is something for everyone. Check out the “local white sea bass” for the the submerged flavors of the Pacific Ocean.
3. Sweet tooth? Finish your meal to perfection with one of the many tasty desserts on the menu. From the key lime pie bar to the red velvet cake, each item is sure to tantalize every taste bud.

 

Not only does Searsucker’s menu excite the mind and the mouth, it allows everyone who enters to indulge in the unique tastes of California cuisine – like never before.

 

Featuring gourmet cuisine by day and night, Searsucker is sure to make your list of favorite spots. Their motto says it all: “this isn’t a place to get away; this is a place to get together.” Grab your friends, put on something nice (no, there is no discount for wearing seersucker, the cotton fabric from which the restaurant derives its name), and enjoy a trendy night out.

Check our Searsucker at 611 5^th Ave. San Diego, 92101.

Viral Video: Web Cam 101 for Seniors

 

With new technologies cropping up daily, it can be an a 24/7 task just to keep up, particularly if you're eighty years old.

This is where the ever-mysterious web cam comes in to play.  A great way to keep in touch with long-distance loved ones, sometimes it becomes a gadget from hell, spelling trouble for anyone in its line of vision.

Check out this precious older couple attempting to get their web cam to function…oops, it already is! We love this video. Not only does it provide us with some light-hearted laughs, it also displays the progress technologically has made in the recent years.

 

The best clip may just be when this elderly man sees himself on the screen, then points out that he has wrinkles on his face.  As if he had no idea before seeing himself through this web cam? Of course, he doesn’t stop there; he also makes the mistake of commenting on his wife’s wrinkles.

So today, we've found that while people are able to use Facebook, Photoshop, and an assortment of outlets to hide their less than perfect identities, you can always trust your web cam to depict the real you, wrinkles and all!