More than 100 people lined up on a downtown street, for a chance to buy a pair of Nike Lebron "Corks."

The specially-released shoe was for sale at shoe shop The Attic on 5th Street on Thursday afternoon.

Only nine pairs were available for purchase, so store manager Eric Bates had the crowd participate in a lottery system to pay for the limited-edition shoes. Nine lucky winners were able to buy the cork-made sneakers for $329.40 (including tax).

The cork is supposed to symbolize celebration, similar to basketball players opening a bottle of champagne after a victory.

Some people wanted the shoes to wear themselves, and others wanted them to resell for a higher price -- up to $1,500 on sites like eBay. But this particular shoe release drew out a large crowd of people who call themselves "Sneakerheads."

"You have people that have love for sneakers, you have people who, that's the cool thing that's what they want," said Karama "K.P." Croom, who didn't get a chance to buy the shoes. "You have people that see an opportunity to make money, so they get a pair so they can turn around and sell, so  you have all those things converging at the same time, and you get this."

Now that Christmas is over, many people are lining their wallets with one of the most popular presents this year: Gift cards.

More than 50 percent of consumers purchased gift cards for the holiday season, according to a National Retail Federation survey.

But not everyone is happy with this particular present – which is when websites such as Plastic Jungle and Gift Card Granny come in handy.

Gift card exchange sites can make it easy for the disgruntled gift receiver to trade in their unwanted cards for cash, or swap it out for another store.

It works like this: Users can log on to the sites, enter their gift card information for verification, and then receive up to 92 percent of the value for their card.

This way the gift cards might be used by people who genuinely like that store. Turns out a lot of gift cards go to waste: Experts predict that each year thousands of gift cards are unused.
   
As with any online transaction, watch out for scams. A few sites that are particularly reliable are Plastic Jungle, Gift Card Granny and Card Hub.

Leave it to a brilliant business entrepreneur mother of six daughters to come up with an ingenious “manicure system” for busy nail polish-loving women everywhere!

The duality Nail Paks come with long-lasting, chip-resistant, salon-strength polish in a bottle that looks like most others but on the twist-off bottom of the packaging is a built-in compartment featuring a nail file and pre-soaked non-acetone nail polish remover pads.

All the colors are on trend and vibrant, and the shimmery holiday collection is a perfect last-minute stocking stuffer--yu will definitely want more than a few of these brilliantly designed beauty treats, so go now to the website.

The megastore Macy's will be open for a straight 48 hours the weekend before Christmas.

Black Friday sales started earlier and earlier this year and now last minute shoppers have their own special shopping spree.

Marketing expert Bernhard Schroeder from San Diego State said this move for a non-stop shopping weekend may give Macy's an edge with last minute shoppers.  And is bound to get the attention of other retail competitors.

"While there is one part of me that says, 'Wow, what is our society heading into?' the marketing side of me says, 'Game on.'"

NBC 7 asked some shoppers if they would make purchases in the middle of the night. It was a mixed response.

"No, I'll be asleep at that time," said one shopper.

Another said she'd take advantage of the unusual time.

"If there's less people out, why not?" said another shopper.

It could help Macy's compete against online retailers, according to Schroeder.

Macy's hopes they can create a sort of Black Friday buzz for bargain shoppers and procrastinators.  But the question still remains: Who will end up shopping in the middle of the night?

A lot of the restaurants and shops at Lindbergh Field are closing their doors -- but it's for a good reason.

Many of the businesses at Lindbergh Field are being replaced by temporary kiosks.

Over the next 15 months, 87 new restaurants and stores will land at Lindbergh.

The makeover even includes knocking out an entire wall in terminal two to make room for a spa.

And one of the highlites will be several local businesses like Phil's BBQ, Stone Brewery and Ryan Brothers Coffee, just to name a few.

"Really, if the concept catches on, it could go nationwide, and there's other examples of that throughout the country," said Nyle Marmion of Lindbergh Field Concessions. "Phils BBQ for example, people from all over the country are going to be tasting that and bringing that message back home."

The new shops and restaurants will open in phases throughout over the next 15 months.

On Monday, a grand opening will be held for a new duty free shop. 

If you can’t go a single morning without a cup of Starbucks brew, you are in for a treat.

According to USA Today, Starbucks will offer customers the opportunity to purchase new, limited edition, metal gift card loaded with $400.

The specially-etched Starbucks Metal Cards are made out of steel, not plastic, and cost $50 each to make, which explains the $450 price tag.

USA Today reports the card also comes with gold-level benefits such as gifts and free refills on brewed coffee and tea.

Starbucks will only make 5,000 of the metal cards.

These cards will not be available in stores, only on Gilt.com, starting Thursday, Dec. 8.

Trader Joe's is opening in Mission Valley early next year, according to a spokesperson for the grocer.

The store is scheduled to open on Jan. 25, 2013 in the space at 1072 Camino Del Rio formerly housed by Borders in Westfield Shopping Center.

Ulta will share the old bookstore space with the popular grocery chain. The discount beauty supply store opened earlier this fall, prompting locals to wonder when Trader Joe's would open.

There are currently 12 Trader Joe's in San Diego, including Point Loma, La Mesa and Pacific Beach.

Mission Valley's new storefront is less than 2 miles away from the Hillcrest Trader Joe's location.

The Chargers might be on a losing streak, but at least fans can commiserate in style.

A pop-up boutique that focuses on “fashion-forward NFL women’s apparel” will open before Sunday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

The female-centric goods for sale even include luxury items, such as clothing from Touch by Alyssa Milano and Italian handbags from Moda by Angelo Anastasio. There’s also Nike Fan Gear for fans that break a sweat – which is likely when watching a game these days.

“We’ll have staff on hand to show off all of the new featured merchandise and help find the perfect holiday gifts for our female fans,” said Chargers CEO A.G. Spanos in a statement.

Fans can pamper themselves at the pop-up store, too. The lounge will also feature music, complimentary Chargers-themed manicures, a photo booth and professional stylist.

The Style Lounge opens at 10 a.m. inside Gate L at Qualcomm Stadium and will close an hour after the game ends.

Welcome to December, one of the coziest, most magical months of the year.

Get December started off right with some of these weekend events throughout the county:

Friday, Nov. 30

Movember Gala Parté
8 p.m. at 344 7th Ave.
Men, it’s time to show off your Movember mustache. For all the gents who participated in the month-long movement to raise awareness for men’s health issues, this event at Block No. 16 in the Gaslamp can’t be missed. Tickets are $10.

Holiday of Lights
5:30-10:30 p.m. at Del Mar Fairgrounds
Take an epic drive through a light display unlike any other. The Holiday of Lights features a nightly show of multiple animated displays at the fairgrounds, complete with themes such as “Candy Cane Lane” and “Twelve Days of Christmas.”

Saturday, Dec. 1

Ocean Beach Holiday Parade
5 p.m. at Newport Avenue and Sunset Cliffs Boulevard
Head to one of San Diego’s funkiest communities for its annual holiday parade. Dozens of cars and participants will travel through the streets, including a visit from the big man himself: Santa Claus.

Tree of Life Ceremony
5-7 p.m. at 3965 5th Ave.
This World AIDS Day, watch the 21st annual Tree of Life ceremony in Hillcrest. Handcrafted ornaments on sale at the site will  benefit Mama’s Kitchen, which provides 40,000 meals to local patients with AIDS or cancer.

North Park Toyland Parade
11 a.m. at Utah and University Avenues
Watch North Park transform from a hipster ‘hood into a holiday wonderland. Marching bands, floats and costumed characters will be feature at this year’s parade

Sunday, Dec. 2

SoNo Park Holiday Fest & Chilipalooza
11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Thorn & 32nd Streets
North and South Park are joining together in the spirit of Christmas. Eat chili, drink local craft brews and enjoy local craftsmanship at the 3rd annual SoNo Park Holiday Fest.

La Jolla Christmas Parade & Festival
2-5 p.m. at Girard Avenue and Kline Street
Get in the mood for mistletoe at La Jolla’s holiday festival and parade Sunday afternoon. Following the parade, antique aircrafts will fly along the coast and locals can watch the lighting of the Christmas tree.

What are you doing this festive holiday weekend? Tell us in the comments below.

There seems to be a name for nearly every shopping day this holiday weekend, with Black Friday and Cyber Monday are the most common.But for the last few years there’s also been Small Business Saturday.

It’s a day to remember the little guys trying to make a living over the holiday, said local shopkeepers. The stores that are usually family operated, and need business as much if not more than the big box stores and retailers.

"The nice thing about family owned stores in San Diego is when you spend the money here in San Diego, the money stays,” said  Larry Kuntz of Nelson Photo in Little Italy.

Kuntz’s store has been locally owned for more than 60 years. Many years ago, people’s only choice for a camera was at a local photo store.

Now Nelson's competes with huge retail stores, both in the malls and online.

It’s a similar situation for fun eclectic clothing store UNIV in Encinitas. It can't hold a candle to the big stores in volume, but they say they can compete with their unique line-up of shirts, shoes, jackets and more.

They also offer something the larger national chains have a hard time matching: A personal touch.
   
"We know our customers, we relate to our customers, we're friends with our customers,” said Tim Stewart, owner of UNIV. “ And so those are the people who keep coming back and we keep selling to.  And we look to build off of that, from one friend at a time type.”

This push for Small Business Saturday, squeezed between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, was started by American Express a few years ago. It's a tough call as bargain shoppers can often find deals online or at the big retail stores that the small businesses have a tough time matching.

On the other hand, personal service can mean a lot, especially if you have questions or a problem with the product.

San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders even officially declared Saturday, Nov. 24 to be "Small Business Saturday."

"Small businesses are the backbone of our economy," he said in a statement. "Every dollar spent in San Diego is more likely to re-circulate in the community helping to create jobs and grow the local economy.”

There is perhaps no more glaring exhibition of American consumerism than Black Friday: shoppers spending their long Thanksgiving weekends camped outside big-box stores for the chance to fight through crowds for the latest gadgets and toys.

Retailers invest a lot of hope in that day, because it can be used to build momentum for the six-week holiday shopping season, their most profitable time of year.

But Black Friday isn’t the economic bellwether that it used to be. The thrifty financial landscape, and the growth of online shopping, have arguably diminished the event’s impact, even as it grows in popularity, with more stores opening on Thanksgiving or offering sales weeks earlier.

“Everyone’s going to hype it, and there are a lot of deals out there, and some people make it an experience in itself, but I don’t think it’s as much of a leading indicator of the holiday season,” said Dennis Jacobe, chief economist for Gallup, the research and polling firm.

The biggest reason, Jacobe said, is that while the recession has abated, consumer caution has not. His studies show that that more Americans say they’re confident in the economy, but they aren’t as willing to exercise that faith by opening their wallets. That includes upper-income shoppers, who may be growing anxious about the looming fiscal cliff’s impact on their taxes. The lingering effects of Hurricane Sandy could be a factor as well.

Many researchers have reported modest spending in the weeks leading up to Black Friday.

In other words, the crowds that turn out for door-buster deals this weekend can’t necessarily be expected to remain enthusiastic.

From an economic researcher’s perspective, Black Friday is more sport than science. Analysts say that sales figures during this brief period are less a function of the broader fiscal climate than of the effort retailers go to in drawing people to their stores.

Because that effort grows every year, Black Friday—and the rest of the weekend—typically performs well, said Allen Sinai, chief economist and strategist at Decision Economics Inc. The zeal usually fades a bit, then picks up again in the days right before Christmas.

Sinai also recalled a couple occasions when a Black Friday turned out to be “a dud,” but sales rallied later in the holiday season.

That record, he said, was why he didn’t “place a lot of stock” in Black Friday as an accurate gauge of holiday-season shopping.

Tell an economist you're trying to get accurate data on Black Friday sales, and the response will often be “good luck.” Many organizations—retail trade groups, market researchers, polling firms—try it, but methods, and margins of error, vary. U.S. Commerce Department statisticians don’t break down economic data that narrowly.

Barry Ritholtz, director of equity research at Fusion IQ, takes to his popular blog every year to bemoan the “wildly optimistic” surveys that the media quotes at the end of Black Friday weekend.

Without fail, he says, the reports exaggerate consumer enthusiasm. He pointed to last year’s National Retail Foundation’s claim that sales had spiked by 16 percent – which, if true, would have been a record-breaking sum. There was no apparent attempt to check the data later on, but economists generally agree that consumer spending increased by less than 6 percent over the entire 2011 holiday season.

The NRF has predicted a slight decrease in the number of Black Friday shoppers this year.

“You should be reluctant to draw too big a conclusion from one day,” Ritholtz said. “As we’ve seen, it never lives up to the hype. In fact, part of the reason there’s so much hype and false signals is there are so many people trying to get a read into that one day, far more than what you should typically be willing to see in one day. This is an economy, not an event.”

His prediction, shared by many other researchers, is that no matter how frenetic Black Friday turns out to be, holiday season spending will enjoy a modest uptick this year. Bain & Co., for example, predicted a 3.5 percent increase in spending, compared to a 3.7 percent increase in 2011 and 3.8 percent the year before. Gallup has predicted a "good, though not great" performance.

The biggest variable, many say, is the fiscal cliff, the expiration of Bush-era tax cuts and automatic spending reductions that will go into effect Dec. 31 unless President Barack Obama can reach some kind of deal with Congress. If there is no solution before Christmas, consumers may get nervous, and hold back on holiday spending, some economists say.

Lawmakers are expected to get back to work on the issue after Thanksgiving weekend.

“Uncertainty is even greater than usual at this point,” said Scott Hoyt, senior director of consumer economics for Moody’s Analytics. “Whatever sales are like this weekend, it doesn’t really help to address that uncertainty."

Black Friday — it's the mother of all shopping days. A day when millions of people wielding billions of dollars scratch and claw for the biggest bargains. So what's the best plan of attack?

"My advice is to skip it entirely," says Jody Rohlena, senior editor at Shop Smart magazine.

Black Friday has been such a staggering marketing success that it's spawned Black Thursday, Cyber Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday… the list goes on. The upside, as Rohlena sees it, is there's no need to focus all your energy, time and money on one day.

"We're gonna see really good markdowns all the way up to the Holidays, and guess what — when retailers have inventory that they're trying to unload, they're going to keep setting up new sales, so there can be advantages waiting," says Rohlena.

But whether you brave the crowds of Black Friday or not, you still need to be prepared. Even if you're a dedicated brick-and-mortar shopper, the Internet is your best starting point. There's a host of websites — BFAds.net, BlackFriday.com and SlickDeals.net — dedicated to tracking the best deals out there, as well as store hours.

"Take a look at those ads beforehand and really find out if they're great deals or not," advises Rohlena. "You can do quick searches at PriceGrabber.com, for example. Don’t assume because it's in a Black Friday circular that it's a great deal."

To help assuage your fears of overpaying, Rohlena says the big news this holiday season is in the realm of price matching. At a lot of stores, if you buy something and then find it cheaper someplace else, they'll refund you the difference.

If big box stores and national chains aren't your thing, Rohlena is a big fan of Small Business Saturday.

"People may think that prices are higher in those smaller independent retail stores — they may not necessarily be," he said. "And there's an advantage: If you ask for a better deal, you might be dealing directly with the owner, they have a lot more leeway to give you a better price. If you ask nicely, of course.

"If you go on AmericanExpress.com, you can register you card, if you use your AmEx to shop on Small Business Saturday at a participating retailer, they will give you a $25 credit. Spend $25, get the credit back on your bill — there's another really good reason to participate: free money."

If there's something you just have to have in-hand, Rohlena suggests a reconnaissance mission: going to the store a few days early to find out where your prey will be on display, the nearest entrance and the exact hour it will be available.

Among the other Internet tools available to the modern bargain hunter is the Black Friday Survival Guide app, which has a newsfeed, lets you search each store by category or each category by item, tells you exactly when each sale begins, provides competitor prices and lets you build a shopping list you can email to a loved one.

If the thought of the traffic and the crowds makes your chest tighten, the Internet is here to help but still requires a good plan. Rohlena recommends CyberMonday.com, CyberMonday2012.com, FreeShipping.org to see who's got free shipping and @cybermonday at Twitter.

With all of the new shopping tools at our disposal, why wade into the insanity of Black Friday at all?

"For those of us who really want to make sure we're giving a nice gift to someone we care about, I think it's important to be able to compare things physically, if you know what I mean, as opposed to virtually, online," says Dr. Tina Lowrey, professor of marketing at the University of Texas, San Antonio, and editor of "Brick & Mortar Shopping in the 21st Century."

"And for a lot of people, I think they enjoy being around other people that are in the holiday spirit, it's sort of an infectious kind of social gathering to be around… the communal nature of going out and being with other people who are out for the same reason."

Rohlena is unmoved.

"I know too much," he said. "I'm not going anywhere on Black Friday."

When it comes to Black Friday, are the big retail stores messing with success?

"I think in the long run it could be a mistake," said San Diego State Marketing professor Michael Belch.  "In the long run the concept for Black Friday could go away because it has been extended."

Dana Marchant has gone shopping many times with her family early Friday morning.  But she says moving Black Friday sales to Thanksgiving day is not a good idea.

"I think you are infringing on the holiday," said Marchant, "you are missing the point of what Thanksgiving is all about."

The early holiday sales have come with controversy. 

Store employees for some major retailers have started petitions to stop the early shopping and there are threats of walk-outs. Shoppers have also complained that moving up the sales takes away from the Black Friday tradition.

"It's kind of a turn off," said Marchant.

Belch says some of the changes are due to competition between brick and mortar stores and online merchants. 

Stores are losing business to internet sales and some feel they can compete by offering earlier holiday deals. But trying to change long standing shopping habits could drive people away from the malls, rather than wake them up early looking for deals.

Thanks to extra-early midnight deals on Black Friday, you can sleep in and rest up for a festive weekend in San Diego.

Take advantage of your post-holiday vacation with these fun events:

Friday, Nov. 23

Black Friday
various times, locations
Haven’t finished digesting that turkey yet? Too bad. Starting at midnight, you can score some sweet deals throughout the county as dozens of shops open early to kickstart the holiday season. Many malls, including Grossmont Center, will cheer you up with some live holiday music while you wait in line.

Skate by the Sea
2-9 p.m. at Hotel Del Coronado
Skate and watch the waves at the iconic Hotel Del Coronado starting this weekend. It’s one of the few rinks in the country that is open on a beach, so add it to your bucket list this holiday season. Tickets start at $20 and a portion of the funds will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of San Diego.

Saturday, Nov. 24

Surfing Santa
1-5 p.m. at Seaport Village
Santa Claus is coming to town on the heels of his Thanksgiving meal. Seaport Village will welcome Father Christmas in his flip-flops to take photos with the fam, San Diego style. Santa will bring his own surfboard; you just need to bring a smile.

Holiday of Lights
5:30-10:30 p.m. at Del Mar Fairgrounds
The coast will light up with a merry light display at Del Mar Fairgrounds nightly starting Thanksgiving evening. Take your family on the Holiday Hayride through the twinkling show, or drive by car. Tickets start at $15 per vehicle.

Sunday, Nov. 25

Fall Del Mar Nationals
8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Del Mar Fairgrounds
More than 1,500 cars will be on display at the Del Mar Fairgrounds this weekend for the second annual Del Mar Nationals motor show. See casts of the past during the three-day event, in addition to a special autocross. What better way to spend the weekend after Thanksgiving? Tickets cost $18 for adults, $6 for kids.

Arts & Craft Fair
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Bate Nuts Farm
More than 80 vendors will head up to Valley Center for the annual "Santa's Coming!" craft fair. Peruse the booths for holiday gifts and enjoy live entertainment by the band Calico Ridge. Admission and parking is free.


What are you doing this weekend? Tell us in the comments below.

He’s making a list. And checking it twice… to prep for his visit to Seaport Village.

Yes, San Diego, Santa Claus is making a trip to the lovely seaside setup just in time for the holiday season. And since he heard the weather is going to be nice, Mr. Chris Kringle is wearing the only apparel suitable for SoCal: Boardshorts. Because let’s be real, it’s too warm for the full red suit.

Santa, sans reindeer, will touch down in San Diego on Nov. 24 to take pictures atop his festive surfboard and faux 6-foot wave.

To celebrate Santa’s arrival, Seaport Village will also have live holiday music playing alongside its unique shops. Plus there’s a whole shop devoted to Christmas décor – you can’t get jollier than that.

Nov. 24 also happens to be Small Business Saturday, which gives locals the opportunity to peruse storefronts owned and operated by San Diegans. Seaport Village has plenty of locally-owned retailers, so it's a chance to support them post-Black Friday.

The event takes place from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 24. So ho-ho-hop over to the bay and enjoy an afternoon with a surfing Santa.

It seems as though Black Friday comes earlier every year – and this year’s no different.

Many malls in San Diego are opening their doors at midnight – but some stores are getting a head start. Targets will open at 9 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day and WalMart is one-upping it by opening at 8 p.m. that day.

Here are what times the malls open their doors on Nov. 23 to begin the holiday shopping season:

Carlsbad Outlets
5620 Paseo Del Norte
midnight to 10 p.m.

Chula Vista Center
555 Broadway, Chula Vista
6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Grossmont Center
5500 Grossmont Center Dr.
8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Fashion Valley
7007 Friars Rd.
midnight to 9 p.m.

Las Americas Outlets
4211 Camino de la Plaza
midnight to 10 p.m.

Otay Ranch Town Center
2015 Birch Rd., Chula Vista
6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Westfield UTC
4545 La Jolla Village Dr.
8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Westfield Horton Plaza
324 Horton Plaza
8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Westfield Mission Valley
1640 Camino Del Rio North
6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Westfield North County
272 East Via Rancho Parkway
6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Westfield Parkway Plaza
415 Parkway Plaza, El Cajon
midnight to 10 p.m.

Westfield Plaza Camino Real
2525 El Camino Real
5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Where are you shopping for Black Friday? Tell us in the comments below!

For the past 18 months, La Jolla’s UTC shopping mall has been undergoing an extensive renovation. On Wednesday night, the newly improved shopping destination held its grand opening.

With the $180 million mall remodeling project nearing completion, UTC customers will now feel a bit like they’re at a vacation destination rather than a plain and simple mall.

That’s exactly the vibe Westfield designers were going for.

“We wanted to create a relaxed environment. People come to UTC to get away, and with fire pits and embellishments, we have a resort feel. Shop, relax, have a glass of wine,” explained Adrienne Bergeron with Westfield UTC.

The mall has transformed the area as an entertainment destination with an additional 40,000 square feet of space.

This brings in a 14-screen ArcLight cinema, a J.Crew store, Tesla Motors and a Tiffany & Co.

And this is just the first phase for the UTC redevelopment project, which was designed to cater specifically to mall-goers in the area.

“We really worked with the community to see what their wants and needs were. The community told us what they wanted and we added new retail,” added Bergeron.

The mall also added a dog park and a children’s playground to accommodate all types of shoppers.

So far, the new amenities seem to be impressing UTC patrons.

“It looks amazing. They finally have a J. Crew and a Tiffany’s. Now we don’t have to drive all the way to Fashion Valley,” said one set of shoppers.

“It’s light, airy [and] looks very modern. [I] think they did a great job,” added shopper Barbara Ryans.

Wednesday night’s grand opening festivities included a runway fashion show hosted by TV personality Giuliana Rancic and a live performance by singer Natasha Bedingfield.
 

A girl who had saved up her money to buy a “Disney Princess” jewelry making kit opened it to find it less than half full.

The girl’s mother filed a complaint against the toymaker with the San Diego City Attorney’s Office.

On Thursday, officials announced a penalty of $225,000 against the distributor of the craft kits that used Disney characters on the packaging.

City Attorney Jan Goldsmith described the toy packaging as a classic case of “bait and switch."

There were 16,484 packages delivered to California and sold at Wal-Mart, Target, Toys R Us for $13 each.

The toy gives children the chance to create bracelets and necklaces with colored string and beads. Some of the beads have images of Disney princesses.

The package was sealed and designed to look like a full case of beads.

Once the kit was opened however, the buyer soon realized the only beads in the kit were the ones that could be seen through the small window in the packaging.

The New Jersey company, Horizon Group USA, cooperated with prosecutors and agreed to pay the penalties without admitting wrongdoing.

Now the company is under a court injunction prohibiting them from offering items for sale in California marked under the Walt Disney Company brand in such packaging.

“I know there are tough times in the business world and profits need to be increased but not in expense of misrepresenting a product to kids,” said Goldsmith.

Officials with the San Diego District Attorney’s Office said the ruling should be a reminder to businesses that they work with the City Attorney’s office on consumer fraud violations.

“We are watching. We are looking at what you’re producing and how you’re selling it,” said San Diego County District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis. “You need to be fair to our consumers.”

The City Attorney’s office has a consumer hotline available to residents to report any violations 619-533-5600.

Ed. Note: This article has been revised. The original article included a quote using an inappropriate slur.
 

Looking to be entertained this weekend? Thankfully, San Diego has you covered. Check out what's going on throughout the county.

Friday, Nov. 16

Cavalia
8 p.m. at 1020 Imperial Ave.
In what many critics are calling the must-see performance of the season, Cavalia is expected to wow the crowd with its equestrian performing arts. Don’t wait to see this show – it’s only here until the end of the year.

Fantasy on Ice
10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Horton Square
Skate into the holiday season at the ice rink in Horton Square starting this weekend. This annual treat is only here through January, so make sure to enjoy it while you can! Admission is $14 for adults and $12 for children.

Saturday, Nov. 17

San Diego Bay Wine and Food Grand Tasting
noon to 3 p.m. at Embarcadero Marina Park North
Hundreds of vendors will be serving gourmet wine and food at one of the tastiest events this year. Sip and savor wines from across the globe in addition to local wineries. Like food? They’ve got you covered with bits from some of San Diego’s finest restaurants. Ticket prices start at $75. 

Imperial Beach-Side Bash
2-7 p.m. at 20 Elm Ave.
Small business owners are joining together on Saturday to host the first ever Imperial Beach-Side Bash. Local musicians will provide entertainment and nearby restaurants will have craft beer and food on site for purchase. The event is free and open to the public.

Holiday With a Heart Fashion Show
7 p.m. at Andaz Hotel
Check out some of San Diego’s holiday fashions while helping out a good cause. This stylish event benefits the Center for Community Solutions, a non-profit organization in San Diego that helps victims of sexual assault, domestic violence and elder abuse. The 21+ event is free and features a silent auction.

Sunday, Nov. 18

Encinitas Fall Festival
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. along Pacific Coast Highway 101
More than 400 booths will be on display throughout Encinitas’ main street this Sunday for the 23rd annual event. Kids can enjoy rides and there’s two stages for live music. As if you need an extra excuse to drive up to the coastal town, the event is free.

Mother Goose Parade
10 a.m. at Magnolia and Main Streets
You don’t need to go to New York City to see a float parade – just go to El Cajon this weekend for the 66th annual Mother Goose parade. Santa Claus will be rolling through the East County town, along with dozens of motorized floats and giant balloons. This free event is followed by a holiday-themed village open for the whole family.

Food Truck Festival
noon-6 p.m. at Orfila Vineyards & Winery
Get your food truck fix at this first ever gathering at the Escondido winery. Award-winning trucks such as Devilicious and Slow Cal BBQ will be on site dishing out gourmet items such as lobster grilled cheese. Yum! Entrance is free, food and wine tasting costs vary.

What are you doing this weekend? Tell us in the comments below.

Whether you’re not much of a chef, or you simply don’t want to wash sink full of dishes – have no fear this Thanksgiving Day as there are plenty restaurants open on Nov. 22.

Here’s a list of eateries that will welcome you with open doors. Trust us –  you’ll leave with a full stomach.

The Prado an Balboa Park
1549 El Prado, 1-7 p.m.
Eat like the pilgrims did at Balboa Park’s classiest venue. Butternut squash soup and pan roasted sea bass are on this special holiday menu. Three-course menu is $50 for adults, $13 for children.

Marina Kitchen
333 West Harbor Dr., 5:30-10 p.m.
The recently renovated kitchen is the perfect place to bring a group this Thanksgiving – this restaurant is huge. Menu items include pumpkin risotto and a festive free range turkey. The prixe-fixe menu costs $30, and you can add wine pairings for an extra $20.

333 Pacific
333 North Pacific St., 1-7 p.m.
Who says you have to have turkey on Thanksgiving? Retreat to the coast with special meal from this beach eatery, featuring plenty of seafood. Menu starts at $50 for adults, $13 for kids.

Bertrand at Mister A’s
2550 5th Ave., 12:30-9 p.m.
Stay classy by eating at one of San Diego’s nicest restaurants. Be thankful for the tantalizing slow roasted prime rib and pumpkin bread pudding they’ll be serving. The fine dining experience at Bertrand at Mister A’s begins at $60 for adults and $20.

Island Prime/ C Level
880 Harbor Island Dr., 1-7 p.m.
Enjoy your turkey with a view at Island Prime/C Levelat Harbor Island. The sweet potato pie sounds like it will pair nicely with the sunset views of this Harbor Island restaurant. Cost is $50 with a children’s menu available.

High Dive
1801 Morena Blvd., 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
A bar on Thanksgiving? Why not! The neighborhood gastropub will have its usual menu, in addition to Thanksgiving food for purchase. Prices vary.

BO-beau kitchen + bar
4996 West Point Loma Blvd., 3-8 p.m.
This new restaurant has been getting rave reviews – so naturally, its Thanksgiving menu is mouthwatering. Try the cornbread biscuits with pumpkin butter or stuffed acorn squash with a side of their famous brussel sprouts. The three-course menu is $36 for adults and $13 for kids.

Crest Café
425 Robinson Ave., 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
For a taste of home cooking, look no further than Crest Café in Hillcrest. The adorable diner has a Thanksgiving menu complete with maple sage butternut squash and chocolate pecan pie. Prices start at $23.

Vintana
1205 Auto Park Way, 1-7 p.m.
Escondido’s newest restaurant is turning heads with its holiday menu. The lamb shank or pork porterhouse served with veggies sound divine followed by the pumpkin goat cheesecake. Three-course menu starts at $50, with wine pairings available.

Mille Fleurs
6009 Paseo Delicias in Rancho Santa Fe, 1:30-7:30 p.m.
Looking for traditional Thanksgiving fare? Then bring the family to Mille Fleurs, where there’s plenty of turkey, cranberry sauce, gravy and mashed potatoes to go around. The holiday menu is $65, with a children’s menu available.

100 Wines Hillcrest
1027 University Ave., 3-8 p.m.
Hillcrest’s latest addition is happy to do the dishes for you on Turkey Day. Highlights from the three-course menu include pumpkin mascarpone ravioli and molten chocolate cake. Cost is $36 for adults, $13 for kids.

Bali Hai
2230 Shelter Island Dr., 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Charm out-of-town guests with breathtaking views of the bay and gourmet holiday dishes. Dishes have an Asian-fusion spin, including: Papaya Glazed Hawaiian Ham and Coconut Cheesecake. Bali Hai's Thanksgiving menu is $36 for adults, $16 for kids and little ones 5 and younger eat free.


What restaurant menu makes you want to abandon the kitchen this Thanksgiving? Tell us in the comments below.

Even though the election is over, San Diegans are now faced with another choice: Which tree lighting ceremony will you attend this weekend?

On Saturday, Nov. 17 two San Diego’s malls will be hosting their unofficial kick-off of the holiday shopping season at the same time. The duel is between Fashion Valley and the newly-renovated Westfield University Town Center.

Both ceremonies begin at 5:30 p.m. and feature holiday cheer and Santa viewings.

Fashion Valley will have artificial snow on hand for kiddies to play with. Plus there are swag bags for the first 100 visitors, carols from the Salvation Army brass band and a life-sized gingerbread house.

But UTC might have the edge with special guest artist Jessica Sanchez, the Chula Vista native who was a runner-up on American Idol last season. There are also performances by San Diego's Children's Choir and the San Diego Civic Youth Ballet.

The shopping nucleus of La Jolla recently went through a major overhaul. Stores such as J. Crew, Tiffany & Co. and Kiehl’s will open by the end of the year – likely to give Fashion Valley some competition for luxury brands. The mall will also re-open a larger than life Forever 21, doubling the size of the old location.

UTC will officially kick off its shiny new exterior on Thursday, Nov. 15 with a performance by Natasha Bedingfield.

So which mall will you go to? Does a performance by Sanchez swing you one way over the other, or will artificial snow have you parking at Fashion Valley? Either way, one thing is certain: The holidays are here.

If you think that culture is something you can’t afford, think again. While the upper class may get to  take a trip to the ballet, there’s plenty of discounts out there for those younger than 30.

Student discounts aside, here are a few places in San Diego that make appreciating art affordable for the under 30 crowd.

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
Free Under 25
Thanks to a grant from the Qualcomm Foundation, visitors younger than 25 can visit one of the two MCASD locations for free. With dozens of exhibits and events throughout the year, it’s a nice way to enjoy works by local artists. There are even workshops and parties created specifically for the younger crowd. So what are you waiting for? Visit either the downtown location or La Jolla museum, show them your I.D. and get ready to get cultured.

Athenaeum
The A List
If you haven’t visited the historic library in La Jolla, put it on the top of your weekend priority list. The Athenaeum is a true gem as one of the few nonprofit libraries in the U.S. devoted entirely to music and art.

With that said young professionals 21 and older can join The A List for $75 and get some serious bang for their buck. The fee allows access to the library’s extensive collection, invitations to art hall openings, discount on concerts – plus admission to the A-List parties. Each year there’s five incredible soirees with complimentary local food and drinks. Past party sips have included Karl Strauss and Stone Brewing Co., with food from Cups and Burger Lounge. Yum.

San Diego Symphony
Encore SDS
Who says classical music is for your grandma? Thanks to a new program at the San Diego Symphony, young professionals can watch a show for only $15 – and party backstage afterward. Encore SDS began its 20s and 30s program earlier this fall to give locals the opportunity to mingle after concerts with food and drinks included. Plus there’s a meet and greet with the musicians behind the curtain; c’mon you know you want to say, “Cello.”

La Jolla Playhouse
$20 for 30 and younger
Thanks to our proximity to an award-winning theater, locals can see Broadway-level shows for a fraction of the price. La Jolla Playhouse, which consistently sends its productions to Broadway, offers a discount to patrons 30 and younger for $20 tickets. Quirky stories and heartfelt tales are the specialty of this picturesque La Jolla theater – pair that with low ticket prices, and it’s easy to convince a pal to join you on a theatrical journey.