Staycation: Rancho Bernardo

Implementing a farm-to-table model hardly deserves acknowledgement these days. It’s not a stretch. It’s not innovative. “It’s the bare f**king minimum,” says Herb & Sea‘s executive chef Aidan Owens.  

When I arrive at the Encinitas restaurant, I’m ready to talk sustainability, farm-to-table stuff, with Owens. “Did you see the chin on that?” he says of the extra big jiggly chin on the sheephead that just arrived with the day’s fresh catch. I did. It was Jay Leno adjacent.

I learn quickly that he somehow oozes both charm and stone-cold honesty. Maybe he could construct a new dish with chin goo, like he did when he had a bunch of tuna scraps and voila’d it into a smooth and crowd-pleasing ‘nduja. “I want to know what’s in there,” he says.    

The instinct to look closer, to dig into what others might discard, says a lot about the chef’s approach. I guide him back to our topic, but he has something else on his mind. “We’re overcomplicating food—what happened to just cooking good food and having fun with it?”

Owens grew up on a farm in Byron Bay, Australia, where sustainability wasn’t a concept you chat about so much as a way of life. Think dirt roads, backyard chickens, pulling vegetables straight from the ground, and a mother who believed that if you couldn’t pronounce the ingredients on a package, you shouldn’t eat what was inside.

Food wasn’t precious or performative. Making it was what you did because you were hungry and that’s still what inspires Owens today. “I like to cook good food because I like to eat good food,” he says.

His approach to sustainability at Herb & Sea began so naturally that it felt just like instinct. “I was just like, ‘Let’s order food from the people who live and work here,’” he says.

And why wouldn’t he when lives in San Diego? Cities all over the world vie for our goods. Our tuna is sent overseas. Our spiny lobsters hit dinner plates in China and Japan. Not to mention California’s producing a third of the country’s vegetables and three-quarters of its fruits and nuts. 

“Why would we outsource when it’s all here?” Owens asks.

Sustainability, in this context, is about cooking what exists in abundance, nearby, right now. “I love the local fish here. It’s f**king delicious and San Diego citrus, I mean, it is so f**ing good,” he says.

Instead of importing ingredients, Owens also looks for nearby alternatives. “You can find really cool things in the local waters,” he says, pointing out that stingray cheeks taste similar to scallops.

Whatever he finds in that sheephead chin might just be the next substitute for marrow. But to make this work, it means getting diners amped up about the slightly unfamiliar. 

Tasting menus, where diners are completely in his hands, become an opportunity to gently push boundaries. “I’ll serve mackerel, because people think they hate it,” Owens says, noting that the abundant local fish can have some fishiness. “But when it’s fresh, it’s arguably one of the best fish in the ocean.”

He also tweaks the language on the menu so people might feel more compelled to give dishes a try without preconceived notions. He might use “lengua” instead of “tongue.” “Whelk” instead of “snail.” When he puts “stingray throat” on the menu, he disarmingly calls it “skate.” 

To reduce waste, scraps aren’t always discarded but rather turned into something new. Sometimes they’re smoked, cured or fermented. Apples going bad turn into apple ponzu. Lemons turn to marmalade, which stretches their usefulness far beyond peak season. “And it’s super tasty on our pizza,” he says.

What makes the food even richer, is the relationships he’s built with farmers. Though it didn’t always feel natural, Owens sought personal connection first. He recalls approaching a fisherman at the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market. “I was awkward,” he says. “I went up to him and said, ‘I like your fish.’”

Owen’s is now so close to his suppliers—like fishermen Ryan Sebo and Joe Daly—that he gets texted pictures of fresh catches right as they flop on the boat. The messages always ask if he wants first dibs. “I say yes to a lot of fish,” Owens says, noting that Herb & Sea can go through 2,000 pounds of seafood a week.

The next evolution of sustainability, in his view, will be chefs working directly with producers such as his alliance with Sebo, cutting out middlemen and purveyors where possible. “It will put more money in the pockets of the people doing the work,” he says.

It will mean that chefs can’t just know their local farmers and producers, but they’ll choose to work with the ones who have the best practices. Dining and sustainability will become much less about the final plate. “It will be more about the impact that plate has on the Earth,” he says.  

Ultimately, he believes sustainability doesn’t need to be loud. It doesn’t need hashtags. It just needs to be honest.

“We aren’t saving lives. We’re feeding people good food,” he says.

And yet, in feeding people well—simply, thoughtfully, responsibly—something meaningful happens. Guests leave satisfied. Ingredients are respected. Local ecosystems are supported and food returns to what it has always been at its core: nourishment, pleasure, and a quiet reflection of the place it comes from.

No buzzwords required.

In a world overflowing with shortcuts, marketing fluff, and “good enough,” there are still companies that choose a different answer.

Integrity guides how they show up every day. They make hard decisions, hold themselves accountable, and build trust the old-fashioned way, one action at a time. At the Better Business Bureau, we call these businesses Torch Heroes: leaders who demonstrate that ethical leadership strengthens businesses and drives long-term success.

And in San Diego, there are plenty of them.

Take House Collective Marketing Solutions, a Carlsbad-based digital agency that won the 2025 Torch Award for Ethics for its people-first approach to marketing. Instead of pushing flashy campaigns, the team often takes a step back to make sure clients’ foundations are strong before going big. Their philosophy? Truth over transaction builds partnerships that last.

Or look at Young Black & N’ Business, where integrity shows up through community action. When a local school lost art funding, founder Roosevelt Williams III and his team stepped in with workshops, mentorship, and hands-on support to help restore creative opportunity. That kind of engagement reflects ethical leadership rooted in real impact.

And in Vista, Lotus Sustainables carried its commitment to ethics all the way to the product line. After discovering defects in a shipment of eco-friendly products, the company issued full refunds and redesigned its offerings at its own expense, a choice that shaped its identity and reinforced to customers that ethics guide every decision.

In North County, Greenway Landscape Design & Build brings integrity into everyday service. When a client’s glass was damaged, likely not by their crew, owner Scott Lawn chose responsibility over blame and covered the repair personally. For Greenway, doing the right thing serves as a north star, guiding every interaction through transparent pricing, accountable partnerships, proactive communication, and follow-through long after the job is done.

Other honorees include At Your Home Familycare, whose leadership turned down a lucrative state contract during the pandemic to protect vulnerable clients and staff, and Bill Howe Family of Companies, where hiring practices, training, and service centers around shared values, every day, on every call.

What connects these diverse businesses, from marketing to nonprofit support to home services, isn’t size, industry, or revenue. It’s something deeper: a commitment to trust as a business strategy.

In San Diego’s competitive marketplace, that trust gives companies an edge. Clients invest in relationships. They refer friends. They stay loyal when others fade.

As one Torch Award winner puts it, integrity isn’t a section in the employee handbook. It’s the operating system of the company,  the invisible code that determines every choice, every day.

And that’s exactly the point of the BBB Torch Awards for Ethics: to spotlight companies that dispel the myth that ethics and success are at odds. These businesses show that when leaders choose honesty, fairness, and accountability, especially when it’s hard, they build brands that matter.

At BBB, we see nominations come in from clients, employees, and business partners who have witnessed ethical leadership up close. These submissions aren’t polished promotions. They’re stories of moments when a company chose people over profit, clarity over confusion, and trust over convenience.

The nomination window for the 2026 Torch Awards for Ethics is open through March 31, 2026, and there are more Torch Heroes waiting to be recognized.

Who comes to mind in San Diego’s business community?

• A vendor who always delivers — and always explains why.
• A competitor who chooses the high road even when shortcuts tempt.
• A team within your own company whose day-in, day-out choices reflect deep character.
  

And yes, businesses can nominate themselves. We encourage it. If you’ve built your business on principles rather than buzzwords, we want to hear your story.

Because in a world full of noise, integrity still deserves the spotlight, and San Diego is full of stories worth telling. Nominate your hero now. 

For San Diego County high school seniors gearing up for college, scholarship support can be a real game-changer. That’s why Wheelhouse Credit Union is proud to offer its annual Sustainability and Badge of Honor College Scholarships, providing $1,000 awards to help students pursue their academic dreams.

Designed to support local students with big goals, these scholarships reflect Wheelhouse’s ongoing commitment to education, community, and opportunity. Whether you’re a student planning your future or someone who knows a college-bound senior, this is a chance to make higher education a little more accessible.

Apply today or share this opportunity with someone who could benefit.

Scholarships that Celebrate Purpose and Community

Since its launch in 2005, Wheelhouse’s scholarship programs have aimed to support students who demonstrate leadership, purpose, and a desire to make a positive impact. Today, the Sustainability and Badge of Honor Scholarships together represent a commitment to both environmental stewardship and recognizing the sacrifices of first-responder families.

While the Sustainability Scholarship focuses on students passionate about environmental initiatives, the Badge of Honor Scholarship honors children or grandchildren of active first responders, including law enforcement, fire protection service, healthcare professionals, and EMTs, who serve San Diego County.

Each selected recipient will receive $1,000 to put toward tuition, books, housing, or other education-related expenses, helping ease the financial burden that often accompanies the transition to college.

Who’s Eligible (and How to Apply)

Both scholarship programs are open to graduating San Diego County high school seniors who plan to attend an accredited college or university full-time beginning in Fall 2026. For the Badge of Honor Scholarship specifically, applicants must have a parent, grandparent, or legal guardian currently working in one of the qualifying first-responder fields in the county.

To apply, students complete a short application and submit a brief essay describing their academic and career aspirations, an opportunity to tell their story and stand out for their goals, achievements, and community engagement.

Important: All applications are due by April 30, 2026, at 11:59:59 PM PDT. Be sure to submit early so your application is considered. Submit your application here.

Why It Matters

Scholarships like Wheelhouse’s do more than ease the financial burden of college; they validate students’ hard work and signal community support at a pivotal moment in their lives. For first-responder families whose daily sacrifices keep San Diego safe, the Badge of Honor Scholarships are a meaningful way to honor that legacy while empowering the next generation to excel.

Likewise, the Sustainability Scholarships encourage young leaders who are committed to environmental stewardship and community betterment, making them a fitting complement to Wheelhouse’s broader mission to support both people and the planet.

Share the Opportunity

Know a deserving student? Don’t let them miss out. Share this article with classmates, friends, or family members who meet the eligibility criteria, and help amplify an opportunity that could shape someone’s future.

By linking compassion with education and community service, Wheelhouse is helping to build a brighter, more inclusive future, one scholarship at a time.

Applications are due April 30, 2026, at 11:59:59 PM PDT.

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It’s that time when all of your senses are awakened by the unmistakable feel, sights, tastes, smells, and sounds of fall and winter. Experience them all in Tuolumne County in Northern California! Discover a different side of Yosemite National Park in the quieter and less crowded destinations. Watch as history comes to life with local tales and vibrant colors in Gold Country. Temperatures are dropping, but cooler adventures are found on the trails and slopes of the High Sierra and at unique events throughout the County.

Take a refreshing trip to Tuolumne County, where your senses will get their fill and your wallet will stay full with off-peak accommodation prices.

Find Serenity in Less-Crowded Yosemite National Park and Surrounding Area

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Yosemite has quieted down, and now’s the time for national park adventures and new explorations. Find yourself in awe as you take in the sights among the giant sequoias backdropped by colors of maples and dogwoods and maybe some glistening snow in the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. Or, hike around stunning Hetch Hetchy Reservoir.

Wander in Groveland, outside of Yosemite, and enjoy a warming pumpkin spice latte or a one-of-a-kind seasonal brew. Feel like shopping? Pop into some of the unique shops in town to find gifts and seasonal decor to bring home.

Discover an Era Past in Gold Country

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Explore Gold Country starting with the nooks of Columbia State Historic Park, and let your eyes and nose lead you into candle, candy, and provisional shops where their seasonal creations will warm your heart. Listen for clanging from the blacksmith shop or clinking of the authentic stagecoach as it enters town.

In nearby Jamestown, become immersed by the smells, sounds, and sights of Wild West railroad culture at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, and stroll down Main Street where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and inns housed in picturesque historic buildings.

In Downtown Sonora, you’ll find many shops and restaurants located in historic buildings; as you step inside, you’ll see some interiors are left to show the architecture of 150 years ago. Also, take in a show at the Gold Country’s premier theater company, Sierra Repertory Theatre.

Reach the Mountain Tops in the High Sierra

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High Sierra adventures await where brisk mountain breezes are the perfect excuse for a cozy sweater. Take a hike along the Pinecrest Lake Loop Trail, and catch unreal views of changing leaves set against rugged granite mountains. Feel the invigorating wind in your face as you ski, snowboard, or snow tube down glorious mountain sides.

Visit the nostalgic mountain town of Twain Harte and enjoy a relaxing stroll to find some fun fall fashions or handy cooking gadgets to help with upcoming holiday cooking or gift giving.

Stir Up Your Seasonal Cheer

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Seasonal cheer is found in every town throughout Tuolumne County. Events include Fall Fest at Indigeny Reserve in Sonora and Harvest Festifall in Columbia State Historic Park in October. The night-time Sonora Christmas Parade, the night after Thanksgiving, and the sights and activities of Christmas Town Sonora delight all ages.  The Polar Express departs Railtown 1897 State Historic Park for the North Pole on weekends following Thanksgiving.

Plan Your Trip to Tuolumne County

Rush Creek Lodge

You’ll need a place to stay during your visit. Pick from mountain resorts, historic inns, cozy vacation cabins (perfect for gathering the family), distinctive B&Bs, and full-service RV parks.

Start planning your vacation with the help of travel inspiration and information delivered directly to your mailbox. Request your FREE Tuolumne County Travel Guide at VisitTuolumne.com today. Or, call the Visit Tuolumne County team at 209-533-4420.

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Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa is a coastal enclave for those who seek the ideal blend of casual and chic — along with that unmistakable feeling of carefree California living. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean between San Diego and Orange County, and set among 200 lush acres of rolling hills and botanical wetlands, it’s a year-round escape where nature is the architect and tranquility is the focus. Here, after an extensive $50+ million reimagination, the relaxed yet refined vibe offers a sense of effortless style and comfort, from expansive guest rooms to our signature dining experiences. And with championship golf, a renowned spa and a wealth of wellness offerings, the opportunities for adventure and discovery abound.

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The culinary journeys at Aviara share a reverence for the deep, long-established roots that connect us all through culture and geography, evoking a distinct sense of place that endures. This unique blend of heritage, influence and innovation serves as the cornerstone of the resort’s authentic coastal California cuisine.

The resort’s signature restaurant, Ponto Lago, takes its inspiration from the life-giving local waters that have allowed this region to flourish for centuries. It is both invigorating and sophisticated, constantly awakening the senses, yet unrushed and effortless. Emphasizing just-caught seafood, fresh local ingredients and bespoke cocktails, the restaurant is centered around the captivating show of an open-hearth kitchen and the astonishing views of the coastline.

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Experience Pacific Point, the resort’s lobby lounge, offering spacious indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the expansive gardens. Shaped like a nest to honor the 18 types of native birds that call Aviara home, and featuring a large veranda to savor cocktails and small plates while taking in the sunset over the ocean, Pacific Point offers the perfect balance between indoors and out.

Located in the clubhouse of the storied Aviara Golf Club, Ember & Rye is a new experience from renowned celebrity chef Richard Blais and specializes in vintage steaks and fresh seafood with a classic California design. Offering modern twists on time-honored concepts, the restaurant’s menu celebrates the region’s laid-back culture and abundance of fresh ingredients — by land and by sea.

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Seamlessly blending tradition and history with today’s techniques and ideas, Ember & Rye features a centerpiece bar with interactive culinary stations serving samplers such as charcuterie, Carlsbad oysters, and shareable bites freshly sourced from local fisherman, farmers, and foragers. And as you savor the unique flavors, you’ll also marvel at the stunning views surrounding Aviara Golf Club’s 18th green.

Tee up the perfect experience with a Topgolf Swing Suite. Savor food, beverages and music along with multi-sport games on floor-to-ceiling screens to create a unique element of playful competition. Gather your friends for some playful competition or celebrate a special occasion in your private suite.

Aviara Arnold Suite

Experience Aviara Golf Club, the only Arnold Palmer signature-designed coastal California golf course that allows players to test themselves on the same fairways as the top LPGA pros who compete here each year in the JTBC Classic. Named one of the best resort courses in America by Golf Digest and Golf Magazine, the 7,007-yard layout is an enjoyable challenge for players of all skill levels: Sculpted around rolling hillsides and overlooking the Batiquitos Lagoon nature preserve, it offers a unique blend of playability and drama thanks to its scenic views, water hazards, and extensive bunkering.

Guests also can learn from the best at Kip Puterbaugh’s Aviara Golf Academy and the TaylorMade Performance Center, located on site here in the “Golf Manufacturing Capital of the World” — over 35 golf companies call Carlsbad home.

Experience your home away from home set along seven miles of pristine beaches. Your luxury getaway is calling at Park Hyatt Aviara.