Written by:  Dempster Cherry

Talk about making it difficult to remain optimistic.  The overall mindset of “sell in May” progressed further into the collective zeitgeist last week as the equity markets receded deeper into the loss column. The worst of it happened early in the week and the market appeared to be solidifying by Thursday.  Friday’s trading, however, was a kick in the gut, as the morning rally gave a sigh and all nine major S&P 500 sectors said a united “See Ya on Monday” and left the building before noon; driving share prices down steadily through the remainder of the session. Eleven of the twelve foreign equity indexes also posted losses.

A number of lackluster earnings reports and outlooks added to an uncertain mood once again.  Uninspiring US economic data, even as unemployment claims remain in line with expectations and falling energy prices begin to alleviate some pocket book pressures; the Greek and French election results; Spain having to nationalize one of its largest banks; China’s lowering of its RRR (reserve requirement ratio) by 50 basis points in an attempt stimulate its economy, and JP Morgan Chase’s ‘$2 Billion dollar oops’ all contributed to significant of risk aversion.

Adding to the disarray, commodity prices continued to fall as WTI crude remained beneath $100 per barrel and Natural gas, as I expected, continued its upward momentum and closed just shy of $2.50.  Gold fell below $1,600 and silver below $30, once again dashing the hopes of the metal minded traders.  Grains took some of the harshest losses of the week, with both corn and wheat falling below $6 a bushel. What remains of my May hedge strategy you ask?  Poo, that’s what remains of that strategy, unmitigated Poo. With the U.S. dollar rallying versus a weakened Euro, in the short term, that should continue downward pressure on commodity prices.  Poo, I say, Poo.

The risk aversion for equities has been good for the bond market as U.S. Treasury yields fell for the eighth consecutive week, and the 30 year bond briefly traded under 3% last Wednesday. Conversely with prices at or near all-time highs in many bond sectors, there is not much upside potential and the yields are so poor they can’t even pay attention.

My short term outlook remains cautious – In my view, European equities are riding the bench, they won’t be seeing any significant playing time, anytime soon. The same goes for stocks with weak positions, although a number of small caps have actually started to outperform the large caps last week. Stocks, which during this correction that are currently outperforming, are more than likely to be sector leaders when the downward selling pressure has runs its course.  I still like blue chips, mid-caps and consumer staples. Bargain hunting for equities and commodities right now is very attractive, however caution dictates a desire to see markets firm up. I won’t mind sitting on the sidelines, looking for lower prices right now, as I remain prudently optimistic.

Dempster R. Cherry is an Investment Advisor Representative at Nelson Securities, Inc.

Talapia Steak

Ashaki Tippins was in the process of planning her wedding when she realized that she couldn’t find a caterer. Or, at least not one that lived up to her standards.  Randomly, as she puts it, “I found myself watching my wedding plans come together and thought to myself—I can do this!”

Not long after her wedding, armed with confidence, the vibrant young woman decided to venture out on her own to start her own event planning company.

Long before Facebook and Twitter, the new business owner secured clients by placing print advertisements in the yellow pages.  Soon after, she received a call from a wealthy family wanting to hire an event planner for their son’s party.

“This particular family hosted Quinceaneras for their daughters and wanted to do something special for their only son— they wanted pony rides and the whole shebang!” she recalls.

Admittedly she says, “I wore many hats that day and after everything was said and done, I realized that party planning was no fun, I was exhausted afterwards.”

It was over seven years ago when Tippins realized that event planning was not the business for her.  However, what she did realize was that she really enjoyed preparing the food.

So, the San Diego native decided to enroll in culinary arts school at Grossmont College. While studying the art of cooking, she became even more fascinated with carvings and the whole process— she had found her passion.  “I should have known there was something to my love for food, because prior to wanting to become a chef, I worked in customer service and spent a lot of hours printing recipes. I’m surprised I didn’t get fired!” Tippins says laughing.

Tippins who was co-adopted by two mothers, one African American and the other White, says that as a child, one of her mother’s exposed her to different ethnic restaurants. The two of them mostly frequented Indian and Thai, which she says, helped to develop her taste for spicy foods.

Chef Ashaki Tippins

Although she had little exposure to Creole foods, her all-time favorite dish is Gumbo. “It’s the taste of rice and meats combined with super spices that make up the southern New Orleans dish which I just love.” she smiles.

Today, with nearly seven years of catering experience under her belt, California Creole Catering & Bakeshop is run solely by Tippins who continues to wear many hats. Her main cuisines are Creole, French, Caribbean and Spanish.

When asked, the thirty-year-old chef explains what led her to focus more on French Cuisine, “I wanted to step outside of my comfort zone.  Most African American cooks specialize in primarily soul food; I wanted to be different.  I still wanted my foods to be ethnic but not fall into the BBQ thing.  My goal is to be able to cater to everyone including high end or upscale crowd.”

Prior to starting her catering business in 2007, Tippins worked at Bali Hai restaurant on Shelter Island supervising brunches and Feast on This Catering Company, where she says she learned a lot from other chefs.

Tippins says that her business continues to grow as she’s added more clients to her growing list which has increased from last year.

Today, the mother of two offers a bit of advice for chefs wanting to go into the catering business. She says, “Learn as much as you can and follow your passion. Find a mentor who is someone that you can learn from.  Don’t get caught up in the hype of being a chef. And, don’t get caught up in competing. Get caught up in honing in on your craft. People get recognized for being good at what they do.  Be careful not to specialize in something that you wouldn’t eat.”

Chef Ashaki Tippins is the owner of California Creole Catering & Bakeshop based out of San Diego.  She is the mother of two children; a son and a daughter, ages 11 and 7.  Ashaki will also be a contributing writer for thechocolatevoice.com, with articles featuring special recipes and cooking tips.  For catering information check out http://www.californiakwikchef.com

Thousands From Hometown Come out in Support of  ”American Idol” Finalist Jessica Sanchez

“American Idol” 16 year old singing sensation and Chula Vista, California native Jessica Sanchez was greeted by thousands of supporters along Eastlake Parkway in Chula Vista.  The event, sponsored by the City of Chula Vista, San Diego Gas & Electric and the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation, begin around 10:30 a.m.  The community pulled out all the stops for Chula hometown Idol.  A parade including Eastlake High School’s marching band and color guard, city officials, dignitaries and  idol contender Jessica, who was escorted by police officers down to The Eastlake Titan’s football stadium to meet and fans and to perform.

Photo Credit: The Chocolate Voice

As the finalist walked on stage, the crowd went crazy.  Jessica humbly, thanked her supporters before giving a mini concert showcasing her amazing talent by belting out three powerhouse songs:  “Try a Little Tenderness”, “Stuttering” and “I Will Always Love You.”

Fans including one of her teachers Ms. Molly Keogh was spotted wearing a Vote for Jessica Sanchez T-shirt had this to say,”I haven’t watched much American Idol lately, but I just had to come out and support my Jessica.”

Sanchez, is among the 2012 top three final contestants on the popular Fox channel.

(From left) David Bazemore as Olen Montgomery, Nile Bullock as Eugene Williams and Eric Jackson as Clarence Norris Photo: Henry DiRocco

It’s amazing how innovative direction and creativity has a precise way of bringing art forms to life.

Case in point: In one of the most horrific cases of legal injustice in our history, The Scottsboro Boys currently playing at the Old Globe Theatre, accomplishes what it sets out to do and that is, reliving an American tragedy by turning a stage production into a foot stomping, invigorating musical.

Directed by five-time Tony Award winner Susan Stroman, The Scottsboro Boys is the true story of nine young men who were riding a boxcar headed for Memphis in 1931. While looking for work during the depression era, they were arrested in Scottsboro, Alabama, charged with raping two Southern white women who were also passengers on the train.

In the opening act, the ensemble’s soul stirring performance of “Minstrel March” had the crowd mesmerized with strong vocals and energetic group dance moves.

Watching the stellar performance, it’s hard to imagine an American tragedy such as The Scottsboro Boys relived in minstrel, however, the production is remarkable and it innovatively follows the tragedy, reminding us of a time in history that ignited the civil rights movement.

The super talented cast primarily made up of African American males made it difficult for the audience to allow sorrowful emotions to set in. The cast is made up of: David Bazemore (Olen Montgomery), Cornelius Bethea (Willie Roberson), Nile Bullock (Eugene Williams), Christopher James Culberson (Andy Wright), Clifton Duncan (Haywood Patterson), Ron Holgate (The Interlocutor), Eric Jackson (Clarence Norris), Jared Joseph (Mr. Bones), James T. Lane (Ozie Powell), JC Montgomery (Mr. Tambo), Clifton Oliver (Charles Weems), Clinton Roane (Roy Wright) and C. Kelly Wright (The Lady), with Audrey Martells (The Lady Understudy) and Shavey Brown and Max Kumangai (Swings).

Clearly, the entire cast has what it takes to make the production a success, however, standouts Jared Joseph (Mr. Bones) and JC Montgomery are both brilliant and humorously played multiple roles. James T. Lane (Ozzie Powell) and Clifton Oliver, who also played dual roles, one of them being white women, moved the crowd with their comical antics and mockery. Nile Bullock (Eugene), the youngest in the cast, held his own superbly, showcasing his amazing vocals and pristine dance moves.
Lastly, there was Clifton Duncan who shined as Haywood Patterson. Haywood’s piercing eyes and dramatic presence was so captivating that his scenes were most likely the ones to bring us back to a sad truth. The original Haywood was quoted, “I don’t tell people stories. I tell the truth.”

Actor Clifton Duncan as Haywood/Photo: Henry DiRocco

Clearly, there is no happy ending here, but the uplifting musical score and gifted cast keeps it moving while at the same time reminding us of a time in history that we must never forget.

The Scottsboro Boys
• Sunday, April 29 – Sunday, June 10
• Old Globe Theatre
• Conrad Prebys Theatre Center

Celebrating 24 years of Champagne Jazz Concerts, Petite and Powerful Saxaphonist Mindi Abair kicks off the 2012 Champagne Jazz Series Leaving Fans with – A “Thornton Winery Experience”

 Nestled in the heart of Temecula’s Wine Country, Thornton has made a name for itself as being one of the finest venues for music and entertainment.  With award winning wines and gourmet dining under the direction of  Executive Chef Steve Pickell and winemaker David Vergari respectively, the venue is also known as hosts  to a plethora of stellar performers over the years.  This year first up  to perform for the 24th season are: Mindi Abair & Friends featuring Jeff Golub and David Pack.

But before  the talented musicians hit the stage to perform, they  join owners Bob and Sally Thornton, son Steve and members of the press in the caves for a glass of  Thornton’s Brut Rosé and take some time for a fun photo.

After the artists sip up, they  graciously excuse themselves to get ready to perform with headliner Mindi  leading way. And, let’s just say, as soon as the petite blonde hits that stage, she owns it. With her added vocals in between instrumentals, the powerhouse solidifies her place in an exclusive club of great musicians.

Mindi Abair

During the performance, guests are seen basking in the sun which enhances Thornton’s picturesque surroundings, mingling while sipping on fine wines. Only a few steps away the accommodating  staff are  on hand  and ready to serve up a delicious gourmet meal consisting of:  marinated artichoke and asparagus salad, succulent oven roasted (all natural) chicken and for dessert, scrumptious strawberry  muscat tart.

The graceful beauty of the vineyard, complimented by the sounds of smooth jazz flowing through the outdoors undeniably generates the venues positive vibe.  Its that kind of vibe best described as, “The Thornton Winery Experience.”

At Thornton, it’s an experience that attracts performers who are at the top of their game. Performers like Abair, who has her own refreshing blend of pop & jazz, giving her that Mindi Abair brand. Her talented friends, David Pack, formerly of the grammy award winning seventies hit group Abrosia, was magnificent  and didn’t miss a beat  as he sang a hugely popular favorite from the seventies, “Your the Biggest Part of Me.” The crowd was up on their feet slow dancing to the sounds of the familiar tune from the past. Guitarist Jeff Golub, whose rendition of “Pinball Wizard,” was another  crowd pleaser. Golub shared his personal story with fans regarding the challenges he faces with the recent diagnosis of his blindness due to a collapse of the optic nerve. Nevertheless, his performance was on fire.

Winemaker David Vergari(L), Mindi Abair(C), Steve Thornton sip a glass of Brut Rosé

Experiencing the performances of all of the artists proved, there are no limits in the caliber of talent that Thornton brings in to entertain guests to its fine establishment.

The 2012 series takes place Saturdays and Sundays from April 29-October 21. Checkout the list of upcoming performances on www.jazzconcerts.com.  Cost for concert and dining start at $55.00 for general admission to $160 for the Gourmet supper package.

Initial jobless claims rose another 6,000 to 388,000 last week, the highest report since January. This really should not be read as something ominous, because the year over year decrease in initial claims has been between 8% and 12%. Within that range, I’m going to believe that what we are observing is more a product of seasonality rather than tumble and fall in the momentum of our low speed economic expansion.

Gasoline prices fell again nationwide while crude oil rose to $104. Both remain higher where they can be anticipated to continue to exert a constricting influence on the economy. Current gasoline usage is lower than it was a year ago due to the upward creep in prices. Your pocket book and bank account can, for a short time, relax, but I unfortunately I have to stress that this is most likely not going to last.

Europe continues to stick a red hot poker in the world’s collective eyeballs. Spain and England are once again back into recession, an ‘austerity recession’ of their own creation.  The 10-year US Treasury futures climbed to an all-time high as stocks and commodities slumped after Standard & Poor’s cut Spain’s long-term credit rating by 2 steps to BBB+ from A with a negative outlook on concern it will have to provide further fiscal support to its banks as the economy contracts. The yield on Spain’s 10-year bond rose to 6% after Spain’s Q1 unemployment rate rose +1.5 to 24.4%, an 18-year high. After S&P downgraded Spain’s sovereign-debt rating for the second time this year, Spain’s Economy Minister Luis de Guindos said Spanish banks won’t need external aid, nor will Spain need a bailout from its European partners.

The euro rose to slightly better levels and European stocks recovered from early losses after Italy sold 4.92 billion of 2017 and 2020 bonds, close to its maximum target, while earnings results from Italian banks beat analysts’ forecasts. The British pound rose to a 7-1/2 month high against the US dollar, defeating my expectant thoughts of a stronger greenback and the Sterling rallied to a 22-month high against the euro on increased safe-haven demand on concern the European debt crisis is spreading. Other negatives for European stocks and the euro were the unexpected -0.2 point decline in the May German consumer confidence survey to a 6-month low of 4.6 and the harsher-than-expected decline in March French consumer spending which fell -2.9% month over month and -2.0% year over year, weaker than expectations of -1.9% m/m and -0.2% y/y.  

Most Asian stocks also went lower on concern that the European debt crisis will worsen and slow global economic growth. The yen rose to a 1-1/2 week high against the dollar, which undercut exporter stocks, despite the action by the Bank of Japan to boost its asset-purchase program by 10 trillion yen ($125 billion), after industrial production rose less than expected. March Japan industrial production increased +1.0% m/m and +13.9% y/y, weaker than expectations of +2.3% m/m and +15.5% y/y. Chinese stocks finished lower as well, as slouching corporate earnings overshadowed speculation the Peoples Bank of China will ease monetary policy to boost economic growth.

Except for Europe, overall economic indicators and an exceptionally robust earnings season have not presented any substantial evidence of deterioration in the US economy. Crude oil pricing remains as an overall drag while our non-winter winter has allowed the only true negative and that’s from initial jobless claims, brought on by nice weather, which has brought more prospective workers into the job hunt, and the evidence there is that that it’s a seasonal issue that is responsible. Gray May is underway but I have an increasingly strong outlook that by the middle of the second quarter, economic indicators (not including Europe mind you) will have gathered up considerable momentum to carry over into the summer.

Dempster R. Cherry

Investment Advisor Representative

Photo Credit: Todd Montgomery

Thornton Winery, which produces award-winning champagnes and premium varietal wines, is located in the heart of the Temecula Valley Wine Country, only about an hour from San Diego or an hour and a half from L.A. Thornton, one of the earliest Temecula Valley wineries, was established in 1988 and has been a favorite spot for wine and champagne lovers ever since.  The winery has a world-class restaurant, Café Champagne, a lovely outdoor terrace and herb garden, an enticing gift shop, and a pleasant sit-down tasting room where you can be served a variety of tastings and also order bread, cheese, salads, soups and other delicious appetizers and meals.

We were introduced to the chocolate wines by Thornton’s owner, John Thornton, Thornton’s president, Steve Thornton, and Thornton’s winemaker, David Vergari.  The very special plated food accompaniments were prepared and introduced by Thornton’s widely acclaimed Executive Chef, Steve Pickell.

Our first course was a Sonoma dry aged jack cheese with a crispy cheese cracker dribbled with a savory tomato chutney.  It was paired with Thornton’s rich Crème De Cocoa, which reminded me of a creamy after-dinner drink, like Bailey’s, although I liked this better because it was lighter and more mellow since it is made with red wine rather than whiskey. This was a surprising combination to me but absolutely delicious.  The cheese and the creamy drink really enhanced each other.

Next we were treated to a rosy slice of duck breast that had been soaked in a brine and then smoked over cherry wood to a nice medium rare.  A unique accompanying sauce was highlighted with kumquats and cinnamon. This was all served with theChocolate Lovers Wine, an intense black cherry wine with strong hints of dark chocolate.  Again, I was pleasantly surprised at how well this pairing worked.  I think this wine would go well with any rich meat dish.

Keeping the surprises going, Chef Pickell next served us tender braised Oaxacan beef short ribs, with molé sauce and crispy polenta, sprinkled with Ancho powder. This savory dish was matched with Coco Rosso, a deep chocolate and cherry blend, with a lovely sweet bouquet, that enhanced the rich flavor of the ribs—another ideal match.

As a final course, we were treated to a coconut macaroon torte served with a luscious white chocolate Grand Mariner crème. (Now you must be salivating.)  What could make this dish more wonderful?  A bright ruby Chocolate Strawberry wine that was full of fruit and strawberry aromas, yet on the palate had a mild chocolate taste that was only slightly sweet and did not overpower the delicious dessert.

Susan Montgomery, Photo Credit: Todd Montgomery

When asked why Thornton decided to venture into these chocolate wines, owner Steve Thornton said, “Our customers let us know they were looking for some wines that were sweeter and very easy to drink.”

Winemaker, David Vegari, added, “I’m the antithesis of a wine snob. I think anyone who is attracted to these kinds of wine should savor them and enjoy them.  At a recent industry-wide trade show, Chocolate wines were hot because of their growing market appeal.”

All these wines were sourced by Thornton from the state of Washington.  They taste best when chilled slightly and might even be nice if served on the rocks. They all have about 14 percent alcoholic content.

Bottles of each of these wines are available for $16 in the gift shop at Thornton Winery.  You can also taste them in Thornton’s Café Champagne, where tastings are $15 each and they can be enjoyed along with some of the extraordinary foods we tasted and other wonderful dishes from Chef Pickell.

Thornton Winery is open every day of the week and is located at 32575 Rancho California Road, Temecula. For more information, call 951-699-0099.

This article was originally posted on winenormous.com.

According to police, Seau’s girlfriend found him at about 9:35 a.m. with a gunshot wound to the chest.

The Chargers released a statement saying they had no information about “the Junior Seau situation,” adding, “Everyone at the Chargers is in complete shock and disbelief right now. We ask everyone to stop what they’re doing and send their prayers to Junior and his family.”

Seau was a 12-time Pro Bowl selection, and a 10-time All-Pro. He was drafted by the Chargers with the fifth overall pick in the 1990 NFL Draft out of the University of Southern California. He played with the Chargers for 12 years before finishing his career with the Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots.

Seau is the Bolts all-time leader in tackles with 1,288. He also had 47 career sacks and 15 career interceptions.

In November 2011, he was inducted into the Chargers Hall of Fame.

He was also named to the Chargers 50th Anniversary All-Time team, and in 1992 won the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year Award. He was also a member of the NFL’s 1990s All-Decade Team.

Dr. Pat Washington (D), Dr. Shirley Weber (D) and Sid Voorakkara (D)

(San Diego, CA) Two San Diego women are in a heated race to represent the 79th district in the California State Assembly. If fate plays a part in the outcome,  history will have been made and the first African American woman ever in San Diego’s history will represent the district which includes: 15.05% of San Diego County including all of Coronado, Imperial Beach, National City, 2.96% of Bonita, 62.56% of Chula Vista, and 16.37% of San Diego.  Currently, the district is represented by Democrat Ben Hueso of San Diego.

In a  community forum held on April 17 at the Malcolm X Library moderated by John Warren (Voice and Viewpoint), hosted by the NAACP-San Diego branch and  a cluster of collaborative organizations, both nominees along with other invited  candidates including: three males (Sid Voorakkara and Rudy Ramirez both (D), Matt Mendoza (R ) and one woman, Mary England, (R), all had an opportunity to share their views on important issues pertaining to the district.

Both african american female candidates share similar views on education and equal opportunity for all.

Dr. Shirley Weber/Photo credit: Keith Walker

Dr. Shirley Weber, a Democrat,  who at age 23 became a professor at San Diego State University, and is currently Chair Emeritus takes a firm position on funding cuts and says confidently that she is the nominee who will lead the fight in Sacramento. She is quoted as saying, “The plan to cut all State University Grant funds from San Diego State – as well as the rest of the schools in the CSU system – simply cannot stand.” “This is an attack on the very core of our system of education, our values as a state and our chief economic engine – quality and affordable higher education.” She argues.

Dr. Weber has lived in California since age 3 and in the 79th district for over 30 years. Educated in the public schools of Los Angeles, she has a BA, MA, and, Ph.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles in the area of speech communications.

An internationally recognized lecturer and writer, Weber is the mother of two children: Akilah, a medical doctor, and Akil, a college student in San Diego. Dr. Weber is the widow of the late Honorable Daniel Weber, a California State Judge.

Weber’s only other african american female opponent, Dr. Pat Washington, says that  if it were not for two teachers who took an interest in her, she would likely not have finished high school, gone on to college, earning a Ph.D. to become an educator. Her passion is to provide access to affordable quality education for all young people from pre-school through college.  Washington’s position is that our tax dollars need to go to classrooms, with equal opportunities for all our students. She also wants to fight on behalf of our state colleges and universities for California residents. Her argument is that the state must adequately roll back tuition increases and cuts to classes that have blocked access to education for working families.

Washington, also a Democrat,  grew up a child of poverty in southeastern Virginia.  She was raised by her illiterate grandmother who could not read nor write.  Pat became a single mother in the 10th grade and credits her success to her third and fourth grade teachers.  She is a wife, a mother, a grandmother, an educator and an advocate.

 Dr. Washington was the only openly lesbian, black full-time women’s studies faculty member hired in SDSU’s history.

Elections are  being held on June 5, 2012.