Inland Edition, February 2, 2024 by Coast News Group

The Coast News

VISTA, SAN MARCOS, ESCONDIDO

VOL. 11, N0. 3

Feb. 2, 2024

Esco sees new sales tax push 1st responders lead group seeking vote on 1% bump By Samantha Nelson

LADIES

OF THE

RINGS

CIRCUS VARGAS returns to North County, with shows through Feb. 19 at Escondido’s North County Mall. More at circusvargas.com. Courtesy photo

Vista state of city focuses on homelessness By Laura Place

VISTA — After making substantial progress in addressing homelessness on multiple fronts in 2023, Vista leaders say they are ready to realize real solutions to get folks off the streets in the year ahead. The topic of homelessness programs took center stage during the city’s State of the Community event on Jan. 22., in which leaders spoke about accomplishments from the past year and what residents can expect to come.

In addition to a strong financial situation boosted by cannabis revenues, new leadership in multiple city departments, and decreased crime rates, Vista Mayor John Franklin said the highlights of FRANKLIN the past year included the creation of the city’s safe parking program and an agreement to open a non-congregate shelter in

collaboration with the city of Encinitas. “There’s no question; homelessness has been the number one issue on the minds of residents of the larger Vista community. We are all passing residents living unsheltered on the streets, or maybe off the streets, and it’s never far from our minds,” Franklin said. He said the city’s Safe Parking Program, which opened in September at the Vista Civic Center, is already seeing positive

outcomes. Jewish Family Services of San Diego, a nonprofit organization that oversees five other safe parking programs throughout the county, manages the location where up to 25 people who live in their cars can park safely each night. Participants are also offered case management and other services to ultimately get people into permanent supportive housing. Franklin said five individuals have entered housing TURN TO VISTA ON 11

Billboard ties legislator to Jan. 6 felon Laura Davies, who represents Vista in the Assembly, rejects claims by her Democratic challenger. 7

ESCONDIDO — More than a year after voters denied a ¾-cent sales tax increase put forward by the city in 2022, a coalition of police, firefighters, city employees, and local business owners is working to put forward a 1 percent sales tax increase proposal to voters. The Escondido Citizens for Safety, which includes the Escondido Police Officers Association, the Escondido Firefighters Association, and Teamsters Local 911, is seeking to qualify the initiative for the November 2024 ballot. The Escondido Community Investment Initiative is led by former deputy fire chief J. Neil Hobbs, Deanna Smith, board chair of the Escondido Chamber of Commerce and owner of Deanna’s Gluten Free Bakery, and Rich Aeling, owner of Aelott Air Conditioning and member of various local civic and charitable organizations. According to proponents, the city’s financial problems and lack of revenue necessitate a sales tax increase of one cent on the dollar. “The City of Escondido is facing a financial crisis,” the group said. “Revenue has been unable to keep pace with the growing costs of providing services. Escondido is managing decline instead of charting a path to prosperity.” The city expects a $10 million average operating budget deficit over the next five years and an $18 million average deficit over the next 20 years. After closing a $11.3 million budget shortfall earlier this year, staff warned the Escondido City TURN TO SALES TAX ON 5

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Feb. 2, 2024

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 2, 2024

Centre City Pkwy. gets speed limits By Samantha Nelson

JUDY OPDAHL, Business and Economics librarian at Cal State San Marcos, joins fellow faculty members on the picket line outside the school on Monday, Jan. 22. Faculty returned to work the following day after a tentative agreement with CSU officials was reached. Photo by Laura Place

Tentative agreement ends CSU strike By Laura Place

SAN MARCOS — Faculty at Cal State San Marcos and other California State University campuses returned to work last week after reaching a tentative agreement with system administrators one day into a planned five-day strike. The California Faculty Association, which represents around 29,000 employees across 23 CSU campuses, announced on Jan. 22 that they had reached a tentative agreement with CSU management, including a 5% general salary increase retroactive to July 1, 2023, and a 5% general salary increase beginning July 1, 2024, contingent on the state not reducing base funding for CSUs. While these two 5% salary increases are well below the 12% bump demanded by faculty, CFA leaders said it will greatly benefit employees. “The collective action of so many lecturers, professors, counselors, librarians, and coaches over these last eight months forced CSU

CALIFORNIA FACULTY ASSOCIATION San Marcos chapter representatives and bargaining team members Michelle Ramos Pellicia, left, and Sharon Elise. Photo by Laura Place

management to take our demands seriously. This tentative agreement makes major gains for all faculty at the CSU,” said CFA President Charles Toombs, a professor at San Diego State University. Faculty and administrative representatives also agreed to raise the salary floor for the lowest-paid faculty by $3,000 retroactive

to last year and by another $3,000 on July 1, 2024. Paid parental leave, which faculty sought to have increased to one full semester, was raised from six to 10 weeks. The tentative agreement also promised to improve access to gender-inclusive restrooms and lactation spaces for faculty and to provide a union representative for faculty

during interactions with police. The historic systemwide strike included hundreds of professors, lecturers, counselors, librarians and coaches at Cal State San Marcos who braved the rain to picket on campus. The CFA called for the strike last month, stating that the university system — the largest in the nation — had repeatedly rejected their demands and shown disrespect for faculty in negotiation sessions. Michelle Ramos Pellicia, president of CFA’s San Marcos chapter and overall CFA associate vice president, said the union’s last multi-day bargaining session in January was cut short by CSU representatives walking out of the meeting. “We felt very disrespected… We are left with that sour taste in our mouths. We want them to come back to the table and give us what we deserve,” Ramos Pellicia said. Striking faculty, clad in red rain ponchos, were spread all throughout the

campus under heavy rainfall on a Monday morning. Ramos Pellicia and dozens of other faculty members held the picket line outside of the administration building as students rushed by to get to classes without their professors. Xuan Santos, a professor of sociology, criminology and justice studies, said that he sent a message to his students letting them know he and his colleagues would be on strike for the week. “What I am telling my students is that sometimes contentious politics are good; they are meaningful,” Santos said. “While some of us are out here protesting and getting wet, you know, we’re out here sending a message that it’s very imperative that we don’t just accept the status quo, but we fight for justice by any means necessary.” Due to the strike, several classes were canceled Jan. 22 and campuses were reported to be largely empty. Faculty will vote to ratify the deal in the coming weeks.

ESCONDIDO — Centre City Parkway will soon have posted speed limits for the first time in the thoroughfare’s history. The Escondido City Council voted to establish speed limits throughout the corridor on Jan. 24, following recommendations from both city staff and the city’s Transportation and Community Safety Commission, which met earlier in January to approve the new speed limits. The corridor was once part of US Highway 395 until the city took over ownership in 1978. Since then, the city has never posted new speed limits and has stuck with its 65-mile-per-hour prima facie speed limit as per state law until now. New speeds will vary along the 6.5-mile stretch of road that extends from the city’s northern and southern boundaries based on a breakdown of different road segments. The northern city limits to El Norte Parkway will be 55 miles per hour, El Norte to Mission Avenue will be 50 miles per hour, Mission to Towne Centre Driveway will be 45 miles per hour, and Towne Centre to the city’s southern limits will be 50 miles per hour. According to City Traffic Engineer Edd Alberto, the new speed limits were determined based on the activity surrounding the road segments plus state-required traffic and engineering studies that calculated the average prevailing speeds in each segment. The uses along the corridor vary; for example, the northern portion above El Norte has long stretches between signalized intersections with little development along the roadway, which allows for the highest of the new speed limits. In comparison, the stretch from Mission to Towne Centre has more closely spaced intersections and is surroundTURN TO SPEED LIMITS ON 8

Nominate your favorite business for 2024 Best of North County By Staff

REGION — The vibrant communities of North County are gearing up to celebrate excellence and recognize outstanding local businesses and services through "The Best of North County" awards. From beloved eateries to trusted service providers, residents are encouraged to nominate their favorites for this prestigious accolade, with nominations open until Feb. 14. Whether you’re an owner, an employee, a customer or a fan, this is the oppor-

tunity to let your voices be heard. Submit your nominations at TheBestofNorthCounty.com. Chris Kydd, publisher of The Coast News Group, said that the contest places a well-deserved spotlight on outstanding local business owners, operators and employees. From pizza parlors and diners to automotive shops and dentist, small businesses are an invaluable thread of the fabric of our area and need the community’s support.

The Coast News launched The Best of North County last year in response to many requests from readers that wanted a contest to just focus on the excellence in our immediate North County vicinity. “North County has evolved into an area with its’ own unique identity very different from San Diego proper,” Kydd said. “We have over 1.22 million residents and represent about one third of the total economy in San Diego. It is time to reward those businesses that we frequent

every day and that is exactly what The Best of North County accomplishes.” Voting will begin on Feb. 28 after all nominations are received. Visitors may cast one vote per subcategory and are invited to return every day through March 13 to support their favorite local businesses. As with any competition, credibility is vital, and so the entire process will be handled by a third party. Gold and Silver winners will be awarded in over 200 subcategories, classified within eleven consoli-

dated categories: • Activities and Entertainment • Education • Food and Beverage • Home and Garden • Law • Lifestyle and Beauty • Medical • Real Estate • Services • Shopping • Vehicle and Services Winners will be announced and featured online at TheBestofNorthCounty.com, and published

in The Best of North County winners guide. The Coast News Group plans to publish thousands of copies of the glossy, full-color volume that will be distributed throughout the community. Along with showcasing the winners, the magazine is designed to serve as a guidebook for both locals and visitors seeking the very best that the area has to offer. Last year the contest generated over 1,100 nominations and the team is expecting to exceed that this year.

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

The CoasT News

Opinion & Editorial

760.436.9737

OWNER/CEO Jim Kydd PUBLISHER Chris Kydd MANAGING EDITOR Jordan P. Ingram ACCOUNTING Becky Roland COMMUNITY NEWS EDITOR Samantha Nelson ADVERTISING SALES Sue 0tto Sandy Elliott LEGAL ADVERTISING Becky Roland

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Laura Place

Del Mar, Solana Beach, San Marcos laura@coastnewsgroup.com

Erik P. Gabaldon

Encinitas, Carlsbad erik@coastnewsgroup.com

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waterspot@coastnewsgroup.com

David Boylan (Lick the Plate) david@artichoke-creative.com

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elouise@coastnewsgroup.com

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janosgarden@gmail.com

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Scott Chambers (Cartoonist) scott@coastnewsgroup.com

Frank Mangio & Rico Cassoni (Taste of Wine & Food) info@tasteofwineandfood.com

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After price gouging, limit gas prices next

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Feb. 2, 2024

Are you licensed for that?

By Summer Stephan

ow that we are fresh in the new year, you may be thinking that it is the perfect time to embark on a home remodel or bathroom upgrade. Before you go looking for the most affordable contractor, a few words of caution: Any person providing home improvements or repairs above the $500 handyman exception is required to have a state issued license from the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Hiring an unlicensed contractor can leave you with substandard, unsafe projects that end up needing to be repaired by licensed contractors at additional costs to homeowners. Even though unlicensed contractors may charge less for home improvement projects, it’s very likely you could end up paying more for their work in the long run. You could end up on the financial hook for injuries suffered by anyone employed by an unlicensed contractor without legally mandated workers’ compensation insurance. The District Attorney’s Office prosecutes criminal violations of contractor laws including unlicensed contractors, unauthorized use of someone else’s license number, requesting more than a 10% deposit, failure to have workers’ compensation in-

surance and even theft for failing to deliver services or materials that were paid for by the homeowner. Here are some of the laws a licensed contractor must follow in California. They are in place to protect homeowners from unscrupulous actors in construction: • A contractor’s license is required for all home improvement projects valued over $500, including labor and materials. • Only the licensed contractor can use the license number assigned to them. • Licensed contractors are required to display their license numbers on all advertisements, business cards, bids, contracts, invoices and vehicles. • Home improvement contracts over $500 must be in writing and include the total cost of the project; any changes to the contract are required to be in writing. • The maximum down payment a contractor can request is 10% of the total cost of the home improvement or $1,000, whichever is less. • Progress payments to the contractor are limited to the value of the work that has been performed or the value of delivered materials. • All businesses in California with one or more employees are required to purchase and maintain workers’ compensation insurance for

all employees, which pays benefits for injuries that occur at work, including medical treatment and lost wages. • Licensed contractors are required to have a minimum $25,000 surety bond. You can check the contractor’s license on the CSLB’s webpage. If it is in a suspended status, stop and find someone else. This site contains a wealth of consumer protection information and provides quick license verification using either the license number, contractor’s name or business name. Although doing a background check on your contractor may seem like quite a bit of effort up front, it will save you time, money and heartache. Victims of unscrupulous contractors rarely recoup their financial losses from the criminals and always wish they had spent more time researching their contractor. These crimes are not rare in California; the CSLB even maintains a “Most Wanted” list. If you suspect you have been the victim of construction fraud or an unlicensed contractor, report it to the CSLB by phone at 800-321-CSLB (2752) or online at www.cslb.ca.gov. Summer Stephan is District Attorney of San Diego County.

Letter to the Editor Time to pass the DRUG Act Dear Editor, Like so many members of our community, my aunt lives with diabetes and relies on insulin to live a “normal” life. She shouldn’t have to worry about rising high outof-pocket costs that make it more difficult for her to access the life-saving treatments and medications she needs — and yet, that is sadly her reality. It’s disheartening that lawmakers haven’t addressed the need to reform

Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), perpetuating high out-of-pocket costs for patients and hindering community members’ access to essential care. Congress should promptly enact PBM reform, and Sen. Alex Padilla can play a pivotal role in championing this cause. Legislation like the DRUG Act would help rein in and reform the shadowy tactics PBMs use to rake in the profits while making it harder for millions of patients to get their physician-prescribed medications in a timely manner. Among other reforms,

the DRUG Act would help ensure PBMs are sharing the savings and discounts they secure from drug manufacturers with patients in order to help alleviate their out-ofpocket burdens. Reforming PBM practices that threaten patients must be at the top of Congress’s to-do list. This is a critical issue that millions of patients and voters are counting on our leaders to address. It’s time for Congress to protect patients by passing the DRUG Act without delay. Jacklyn Parhar San Diego

or many years, California drivers and Republican politicians have blamed Democrats and high gas taxes for the huge difference in the price of gasoline here compared to other states. It turns out they’ve been wrong, some of them just plain self-serving. We know this with certainty now for the first time because of a yearold state law with the odd designation of SBX1-2, passed in an emergency legislative session after extreme gasoline price increases during last February. In that month, pump prices leaped more than $2 per gallon over just two days, oil refiners explaining that they had some “unexpected” shutdowns. Gov. Gavin Newsom called this a “fleecing” of California drivers, and oil company profits in this state jumped to levels 70% above what they were elsewhere. They’ve dropped a little since then. So we got a new law forcing refiners in the state to report their per-gallon profit margins to a new division of the state Energy Commission, which must publish them and then decide whether they constitute price gouging. If the commission makes that ruling, it can then impose price limits. The first reports came in late last year and received virtually no media coverage. It turned out big California refiners like Valero, Chevron, Conoco-Phillips, Marathon and PBF raked in an average of $1.49 per gallon in gross refining profits during the fairly typical month of September, almost three times their 66-cent margins in January 2023. That’s after the costs of crude oil, taxes, environmental fees and transportation are subtracted. Of course, the 66cent January 2023 margins were already unusually high, about one-third more than the previously normal margins of about 50 cents the refiners historically reaped here. Said Jamie Court, president of the Consumer Watchdog advocacy group, “This data proves California oil refiners profited wildly from California gas price spikes… It is precisely why California needs to implement a strong price gouging penalty as soon as possible.” He’s right. The figures prove that while government causes some gas price inflation here, refin-

california focus

tom elias

ers actually cause most of the price differential of more than a dollar a gallon between California and other states. Essentially, they are treating California like a gigantic ATM with unlimited reserves. This all demonstrates that even though prices are down somewhat since last February, they remain much higher than previously, with refiners not being the least bit bashful about upping their profits whenever they please. September brought such a moment, as they raised margins from $1.29 per gallon in August. This was a 13% increase in a single month, when no extraordinary events occurred. Court suggests the Energy Commission, which now ought to exercise for the first time its option of setting a “reasonable maximum” profit, should limit margins to 60 cents per gallon, just below the levels of January 2023. That would amount to a 10% penalty to the refiners for their gouging of the last year. For consumers, this could mean a quick price drop of almost a dollar a gallon, a welcome relief in the state with America’s second highest average cost of living. But so far, the Energy Commission has not acted on its mandate, saying it is still determining whether any of this constituted price gouging. That decision is due by June at the latest. But the September numbers leave no doubt of what the finding will need to be: It’s eminently clear the refiners have gouged and are deserving of the penalty SBX1-2 calls for. Yes, there would be bleating from oil companies about how the state is wrecking its business environment — an environment they have exploited to the tune of billions of dollars over the last year. If they don’t pay a price for their unfair business practices now, it’s hard to see when one would ever be justified or imposed on any price-gouging business or industry. Email Thomas Elias at tdelias@aol.com.

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 2, 2024

$53M boost for bridge replacement

Driver in fatal crash ID'd

By Laura Place

OCEANSIDE — Over $53 million in federal funds netted by Rep. Mike Levin will go to the North County Transit District for the replacement of the 107-yearold San Dieguito Bridge in Del Mar, ushering in much-needed repairs to the North County segment of the LOSSAN rail corridor. Congressman Levin (D-Dana Point) announced the funding alongside State Sen. Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas) and local North County leaders during a press conference at the Oceanside Transit Center on Jan. 25. The day prior, another landslide in San Clemente closed rail service between San Diego and Orange counties, exhibiting the vulnerability of key sections of the 350-mile corridor. “When you think about the hundreds, the thousands, of commuters who were disrupted from this one slide, you realize how important it is that we invest in the resiliency of this corridor and that we commit ourselves to making train travel equivalent to car travel,” Blakespear said. The stretch of rail through Del Mar is considered another major weak link along the corridor. The new cement San Dieguito bridge will replace the antiquated wooden trestle bridge that carries trains over the lagoon, elevating it above the floodplain and double-tracking it to allow for more frequent travel. “This replacement bridge is going to expand from a single track to add one mile of double tracks; it’s going to raise the height of the tracks by eight feet to account for increased sea level changes; and it’s going to prevent service disruptions and increase trips,” Levin said. The federal funding will also cover the creation of a special events platform at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, which officials hope will alleviate traffic congestion from people attending the fair, horse races and other events. Despite the hefty price tag for the bridge replacement, maintaining the current infrastructure already requires a significant investment from NCTD, according to agency board chair Jewel Edson. “NCTD spends more to TURN TO BRIDGE ON 15

SALES TAX

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

Council that the city’s $59.6 million reserve funds will be gone by 2030 if nothing changes, forcing “deep cuts” if additional revenue isn’t found. The coalition claims revenue from a sales tax increase would allow the city to better address homelessness, repair and maintain local infrastructure and mu-

By City News Service

LOVE ESCO is a nonprofit organization seeking to enhance the community through service projects. The organization has dubbed the month of February as Love Esco Month. Photo by Samantha Nelson

Love Esco celebrates city

Lillian Arjona to complain about – but School District, Alabaster Volunteer group member Garzon. there’s a lot of really cool Jar Project, Neighborhood Garzon explained people who have really Healthcare, police and fire Love Esco Day will invested and worked on departments, San Diego lines up projects that also help highlight other Humane Society, Escondigroups striving to make a do Chamber of Commerce throughout Feb. difference in their commuEscondido and many others. ESCONDIDO — A nonprofit organization is proclaiming its love for the community through various acts of service and celebration throughout February. Love Esco, a group dedicated to spreading love and kindness throughout Escondido, is encouraging locals to participate in a series of community service projects lined up throughout February. The group also plans to host its first Love Esco Day this Saturday, Feb. 3, as a kickoff to the month of service ahead. The party will be held in Grape Day Park from 8 to 10 a.m., with special appearances from Escondido locals, including World Cup Champion Shannon MacMillan and radio host Jesse Lozano, free food from local restaurants, giveaways, entertainment and dozens of nonprofit organizations sharing how to get involved. “This is the first citywide volunteer day that’s ever happened,” said Love Esco organizer and board

nity. “Many people are not aware of the hidden gems of our city, so we’re really using that day to highlight them,” she said. According to Garzon, the group is organizing about 35 different service projects throughout the month, with 10 of them taking place on Love Esco Day following the morning festivities. Beyond beautifying the community, Love Esco Day and Month also reflect the organization’s overall goals behind the effort. Love Esco began in 2021 when Emmanuel Faith Community Church members sought to re-engage with the community following the COVID-19 pandemic. After more than two years of various projects, the group has mobilized more than 2,000 volunteers, accumulated more than 10,000 hours of service and completed more than 50 projects. “We thought, ‘What would it look like if we spread positivity?’” Garzon said. “Escondido sometimes has a negative rap, which makes it easy

making a positive impact here.” The group has also partnered with the city, Interfaith Community Services, Escondido Union

The Escondido Art Association, a fellow partner, is helping Love Esco celebrate the month with a booth at the kickoff party to showcase its artists and share about its art education opportunities. EAA is also accepting art submissions for its February “Seeing Red!” exhibition, which showcases art featuring themes of love and its symbolic color to be judged by local artist and teacher Igor Koutsenko, who will also serve as the demonstration artist for EAA’s Live Art Demo in at the California Center for the Arts on Feb. 8 at 6:30 p.m. “We are excited to support Love Esco with our theme and participation, as they are making a real impact in our community,” said EAA President Tokeli Baker. “At EAA, our mission is to touch and inspire others through art and creativity so our participation in Love Esco’s events all month long is a great way for us to do that.” To sign up for Love Esco Month service projects, visit www.serve.loveesco.org.

nicipal parks and facilities, prevent cuts to public safety and improve first responder response times. The coalition submitted its initiative to the city clerk on Jan. 9 and received a title and summary from the city attorney on Jan. 17. According to the city, 7,748 signatures from registered Escondido voters must be gathered in 180 days to qualify for the upcoming ballot. The city’s current sales

tax is 7.75%, which includes 7.25% for the state and a half-cent for the county’s Transnet program. The city receives just 1% of the sales tax. If passed, the new measure would bump the sales tax rate to 8.75% by adding a one-cent sales tax on retail goods in Escondido. The tax increase would conclude after 20 years. The initiative follows a recent sales tax measure that failed in November

2022, which proposed a ¾-cent sales tax with a 15year sunset clause. “The primary difference between these two ballot measures is that the Escondido Community Investment Initiative is being placed on the ballot by a citizen-led group, whereas the 2022 Essential Services Revenue Measure was placed on the ballot by the City Council,” explained City Clerk Zack Beck. “In

addition, there is a ¼-cent difference between the two measures.” According to previously reported projections from the city, Escondido would “stabilize” by pulling in an additional $21.2 million in revenue annually with a ¾-cent measure, but a onecent sales tax measure could help the city “thrive” under the one-cent measure by bringing in an additional $28.3 million annually.

By Samantha Nelson

sometimes has a negative rap ... but there’s lots of really cool people who have really invested and worked on making a positive impact here.”

Lillian Arjona Garzon Love Esco board member

SAN MARCOS — Authorities have publicly identified a 24-year-old man who died last week in a traffic crash in San Marcos. Alejandro Gomez Jr. of Escondido was heading east in the 1300 block of San Marcos Boulevard shortly before 6:30 p.m. Jan. 23 when the Subaru sport-utility vehicle he was driving rear-ended a Porsche SUV and overturned, according to the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office. After emergency crews freed Gomez from his damaged vehicle, paramedics took him to Palomar Medical Center in Escondido, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. No other injuries were reported.

Drugs, weapons, cash seized from Vista home

VISTA — A man was arrested on suspicion of possession of narcotics for sale and a felon in possession of tear gas and a stun gun after narcotics, weapons and cash were seized from his North County home, the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department said last week. Around 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23, deputies from the Vista Sheriff’s Station’s Community Policing and Problem-Solving Unit conducted a probation compliance check at a home in the 400 block of Dennis Drive in Vista, according to SDCSD Sgt. Brent Longfellow. They found and seized the following items: 4 ounces of fentanyl; 2 ounces of methamphetamine; 100 fentanyl pills; half an ounce of psilocybin mushrooms; switchblade knife; stun gun; pepper spray; and a large amount of U.S. currency. Deputies arrested Dylan Monroe on numerous charges and booked him into the Vista Detention Facility.

Cheesecake Factory settles with janitors

REGION — A $1 million settlement was announced Jan. 23 for 589 janitors who were underpaid while working at eight Cheesecake Factory restaurants in San Diego and Orange counties, including one on Via Rancho Parkway in Escondido. The settlement stems from an investigation that began in 2016 regarding alleged wage and hour violations at San Diego County Cheesecake Factory restaurants. Those janitors were employed by companies that were contracted and subcontracted by the Cheesecake Factory, according to the Maintenance Cooperation Trust Fund, a statewide watchdog organization that investigates allegations of employment law violations.

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 2, 2024

Be in the know and in the money ask mr. marketing rob weinberg

ately I’ve been bumping into a surge of people who purposely ignore the

news. Given the border conflicts, climate distress and just plain incivility going on in the world today, I understand their need to avoid the daily reminders of our communal problems. Ignorance is bliss, and all that. Yet I can’t help myself. As a business owner, it’s incumbent upon me to stay

current, both for myself and for my clients. Like a car wreck on the highway, I have to look. I’ve actually become a big believer in following the news. Not just online, where I typically have algorithms feeding me more of whatever I read last, but magazines and newspapers. Reveling in getting newsprint on my fingers each morning, I read the LA Times, San Diego Union-Tribune and a ton of magazines cover to cover. I also follow The Coast News, other local papers and 9-12 news feeds across the political spectrum. Because of this exposure, I typically learn about a lot of stuff that wouldn’t otherwise be on my radar. I like traditional media because it exposes me to a

wide variety of issues and business or demographic trends that I’d have otherwise easily missed. It was this news flow that helped me and a partner see the growing number of books being written annually (2 million in the US alone). As my partner is a professional writer, it was an easy step to starting Write Away Books, offering services to help authors go "from idea to manuscript to marketplace." Regardless of what you sell, there are probably additional products or services you can offer, and new audiences you can be reaching. However, if you’re not using a diverse news feed to track what’s going on in the world around you, I promise you’re missing opportuni-

ties.

Layer atop the news joining networking groups and talking to lots of people with diverse opinions, and you’re guaranteed to be better positioned for huge success. As you’re firming up your strategies for the coming quarters, your organization can only benefit by exploring beyond your current limits. Opportunity awaits the brave and rewards those with vision. And the best way to gain that vision is by being aware of events taking place in the world today. With that said, I wish you a week of profitable marketing. Free marketing advice. www.askmrmarketing. com.

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Business news and special achievements for North San Diego County. Send information via email to community@ coastnewsgroup.com. GOLF SCHOLARSHIP

Oceanside twin sisters Ada and Anabelle Lee, seniors at Mission Vista High School, received the Western Golf Association’s Chick Evans Scholarship, a full, four-year housing and tuition scholarship for golf caddies and the nation’s largest privately funded scholarship program. The twins caddied at Goat Hill Park Golf Club and are the club’s first to earn the scholarship. COLLEGE GRADUATES

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The following students graduated from their respective universities: Jonathan Ecker of Oceanside at Mississippi State University; Michael Cornell of Encinitas at the University of Alabama; and Edward Anthony Calderon of Camp Pendleton, Yvonne Maki and Brian Moran of Oceanside, and Fidel Arsenio Rodeleila Menyongai along with Christopher Cohoon of San Marcos at the University of Maryland. TOP STUDENTS

The following students were named to the fall dean’s or president’s list for academic performance at their respective universities: Michael Hucks of Oceanside at Mississippi State University; William Schewe of Encinitas at the Milwaukee School of Engineering; Collin Johnson of Carlsbad and Sally Lynne of San Marcos at the University of Dallas; Ryan Bell of Oceanside at Middle Tennessee State University; Jack Gemmell of Oceanside at Montclair State University; Megan Gee of Oceanside at Regis College; Sarah McCracken of San Marcos at Knox College; Erik Woolsey of Encinitas at the University of Iowa; Caitlin Sullivan of Solana Beach at the University of Rhode Island; Sophia Robinson of Carlsbad at Fulbright College; Ryan Craig of San Marcos, Aidan

CARING TRANSITIONS OPENS IN SAN MARCOS

Caring Transitions, a company that offers senior relocation, downsizing and estate sales planning, has opened a new location in San Marcos. The team celebrated the new location with a ribbon cutting ceremony Jan. 24. Call 760-710-7182 for more information. Courtesy photo

Sheehy of Encinitas and Jordan Cashwell of Oceanside at The Citadel. The University of Alabama dean’s list recipients are Quinn Harder, Josie Ryan and Madeline Shaffer of Carlsbad; Hillary Cardinell, Lauren Gillbank, Abigail Roy and Gracey Walke of Encinitas; Tyler Buchner and James Singer of Rancho Santa Fe; and Summer Saunders and May Cotty of San Marcos. Also named to the University of Mississippi’s dean’s list are Khloe Carattini of Encinitas, Grace Grunsky of Del Mar, Sofia King and Gavin Ryder of Solana Beach, Charles Sawyer and Brooke Waldhelm of Carlsbad, and Trent St. Cyr of San Marcos. HONOR ROLL

The University of Mississippi named the following students to its Fall 2023 Honor Roll: Naomi Ryder of Solana Beach, Sarah Crane of Oceanside and Anne Provo of Carlsbad. NEW POSITION

Aaron Byzak, who previously served on the executive leadership team for Tri-City Medical Center,

has been appointed as chief strategist and lead consultant of Galvanized Strategies, a strategic communications consulting firm. FIRST FLOWER

The first ranunculus flower at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch bloomed just over a month before the fields are set to reopen on March 1.

extensive remodel. As part of the celebration, the store gifted a $1,000 grant to the MHS Family Recovery Center, a local mental health organization in Oceanside. DONATIONS NEEDED

MiraCosta College has been recognized by the California Community Colleges Board of Governors with the 2023-24 Exemplary Program Award, highlighting its efforts to promote its ethnic study programs.

The Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic in Oceanside is collecting the following donations for displaced youth and young adults: food gift cards, travel-size rain ponchos and mini-umbrellas, small children’s toys and pet toys and other small items for unhoused individuals ages 1225. Donations must be able to fit in a lunch-size paper bag and will be provided to My Friends Place in April.

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ETHNIC STUDIES

Megan Draper, chief executive of Carlsbad-based Furniture Reuse Solutions, has been recognized as the Furniture Sustainability Female CEO of the Year by AI Global Media’s CEO Monthly publication. REMODELED MARKET

The Oceanside Walmart Neighborhood Market at 1046 Mission Ave. celebrated its re-grand reopening this morning following an

Registration is now open for the Distinguished Young Women of San Diego County Class of 2025 scholarship program. Current juniors on track to graduate in 2025 are eligible to compete for five $1,000 scholarships and seven $250 scholarships. Register by Feb. 26 at www.distinguisedyw. org. The public showcase of participants abilities and accomplishments will be held on April 13.

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 2, 2024

GOP Assemblywoman denies billboard’s claim Democrat alleges lawmaker has ties to insurrectionist By Laura Place

VISTA — A new billboard popped up last week in downtown Vista featuring a photo well known among Southern California Democrats — an image of 74th District Assemblywoman Laurie Davies (R-Laguna Niguel) standing next to a Jan. 6 insurrectionist at a Donald Trump rally. Alan Hostetter, the man pictured next to Davies at the October 2020 rally in San Clemente, was sentenced last month to 11 years and four months in federal prison for breaking into and bringing weapons to the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6. Hostetter's jail time was one of the longer sentences handed down so far to a conspirator involved in the attack. The billboard, which reads, “Laurie Davies stood with a convicted January 6 felon. Literally,” was paid for by Chris Duncan, a former federal prosecutor who is making his third run against Davies for her 74th District seat in the November election. Duncan said in a statement on Jan. 18 that both Republicans and Democrats should agree on the importance of “preserving

A BILLBOARD in Vista paid for by Democratic challenger Chris Duncan shows a photo of 74th District Assemblywoman Laurie Davies and Jan. 6 insurrectionist Alan Hostetter. Photo by Laura Place

law and order and defending our public safety professionals.” “I hope this billboard sparks conversation about the danger extremism poses to our community and law enforcement and the expectation that our elected representatives condemn, not associate with, violent extremists who threaten

the safety and security of our neighborhoods,” Duncan said. Davies said while the billboard is a first, this claim has come up several times in past races with Duncan. “It keeps coming up every race,” Davies said. “He’s using it because he doesn’t have anything he can rep-

resent himself with... When things like this come up, it doesn’t get me off my path.” The photo and allegations of the assembly member’s connections to Hostetter also surfaced in 2022 during the last race between Davies and Duncan, which she won by around 9,000 votes. Davies has been ac-

cused by Duncan and other Democrats of failing to condemn the events of Jan. 6. Last month, San Diego County Democratic Party Chairwoman Becca Taylor claimed that Davies is a political ally of the individuals who raided the Capitol. While Davies has previously been mum about her 2020 appearance with

Hostetter, she told The Coast News on Friday that she did not know him prior to the San Clemente rally and denied having any association with him ever since. Davies also indicated that she supported his arrest. “People who commit violence of any kind need to be prosecuted,” Davies said. Another billboard criticizing Davies, this one paid for by the California Democratic Party, has also been erected along state Route 78 near College Boulevard. It states that Davies failed to vote in favor of giving funding to law enforcement to help with the fentanyl crisis, which the Assemblymember also denied. Davies cited several fentanyl-related bills she has authored and co-authored, including AB 381, requiring substance use disorder facilities to carry Narcan; AB 1673, creating the Fentanyl Abuse Task Force focused on increasing awareness about its dangers; and AB 1598, decriminalizing testing equipment for fentanyl and date-rape drug GHB. “I’m endorsed by all law enforcement in the state of California, and I worked with law enforcement on all my fentanyl bills,” Davies said. The 74th district includes the communities of Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, San Clemente, Camp Pendleton, Vista and Oceanside.

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T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 2, 2024

Escondido hires firm for library renovation design By Samantha Nelson

ESCONDIDO will soon post speed limits along Centre City Parkway for the first time since taking control of the corridor in 1978. Without posted limits, the speed limit defaults to 65 mph, according to state law. The new limits will be lower. Photo by Samantha Nelson

SPEED LIMITS

CONTINUED FROM 3

ed by downtown uses and activity. “Through our monitoring, we felt like it was time to post the speed limits,” Alberto told The Coast News. According to the staff report, speed plays a critical role in the cause and severity of motor crashes. As speed increases, the risk of fatality in a crash also increases.

The report also cites the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s “Literature Review on Vehicle Travel Speeds and Pedestrian Injuries,” a 1999 study noting that fatal and serious injury rates “increase substantially” when speeds rise. Signage for the new speed limits will cost the city approximately $2,000. The new limits will go into effect once all signage is posted.

Alberto said the city hopes to post the new signs by the end of February. The city will also begin posting temporary signs near the freeway exits and other entry points onto Centre City Parkway in the weeks before the new signage, warning residents that the speeds have changed. Police will issue warnings to drivers during the first two weeks of the new speed limit signs being posted.

ESCONDIDO — The city recently hired a firm for $747,000 to design the library’s renovations. IDS Group will be responsible for architectural design and engineering services to complete the Escondido Library Critical Infrastructure and Modernization Project. Housed in a 40,000-square-foot building constructed in 1980, the Escondido Public Library is the only library location in a city with more than 150,000 people. Like many other cities throughout the state, sufficient funding has not been available to maintain the library properly. The building has three known roof leaks and seeping windows during storms with high winds. According to staff, a significant issue will likely impact library operations in the next three to five years if the roof and window issues go unaddressed. Other essential infrastructure components, including HVAC systems, lighting, water-damaged ceilings, cracked floor tiles, and non-compliant ADA accessibility, must also be fixed or upgraded. The Budget Act of 2021 gave the California State Library $439 million in one-time funds to address critical infrastructure and maintenance needs in public libraries throughout the state, prioritizing those in areas with higher poverty rates. The city applied for the grant and was awarded $10 million in 2022. According to staff, design services will study the roof, which has exceeded its lifespan and still leaks de-

ONE LIBRARY location serves the city of more than 150,000 people. The building dates to 1980. Courtesy photo

spite multiple repairs, to be replaced where necessary. The project will also replace seven aging rooftop HVAC systems, which have experienced major failures that affected operations in the library — a designated cool zone for areas during extreme heat waves. Regarding addressing ADA compliance, the project will mainly focus on upgrading the first-floor restrooms. Project Manager Laura McLin noted aesthetic features on the first floor, including lighting, painting, flooring, wayfinding signs and space layout as funding allows. Last July, the city awarded a $798,000 consulting services agreement with Griffin Structures for project and construction management services for the project’s duration. The firm conducted the project’s initial phase with a facility condition assessment of the library building and doc-

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ument drafting for design services. IDS Group was then chosen out of eight firms that applied to an October request for proposals from the city to lead the design services portion of the library project. The city hopes to move the project along swiftly to use the grant funds before its March 2026 deadline. “The major overarching goal is hitting our term deadline for the grant,” McLin said. The project manager explained that the project’s pace will be determined once construction begins and crews start work. During this process, more critical issues may be uncovered. “Things can move based on a variety of incidents, but the hope is to try to stick to that schedule as close as possible so that we make sure we don’t go over the term deadline,” McLin said.

MiraCosta celebrates 90th year By Staff

OCEANSIDE — MiraCosta College has launched a yearlong celebration of its 90th anniversary as a community college serving North County. Once housed in a wing of Oceanside High School in 1934, MiraCosta today serves nearly 27,000 students across four campuses in Oceanside, Cardiff and Carlsbad, reflecting its mission to provide a wide array of educational pathways. The 90th anniversary celebration will showcase the completion of various construction projects, including the new Kinesiology, Health and Nutrition building, gymnasium, the Student Services building, Library and Learning Commons and the Nursing Simulation Labs — all funded by the $455 million Measure MM bond. More details on upcoming 90th-anniversary events and initiatives will be announced in the coming months.

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 2, 2024

A meandering, memorable Surfliner trip to SLO hit the road e’louise ondash

he train platform at the Oceanside Transportation Center is deserted when we arrive at 4:30 a.m., but as Amtrak’s 4:57 a.m. northbound Surfliner approaches, the number increases to a half-dozen. We have about a minute to climb aboard, settle our luggage and find our seats. The next time I check my surroundings, our train is pulling into Los Angeles’ Union Station, where the number of passengers boarding increases considerably. For a moment, I regret having dozed away the miles between Oceanside and Los Angeles, but then it occurs to me that the sun is just coming up, so we didn’t miss much. During the 15-minute layover at Union Station, I head to the car behind ours for coffee, juice, pastries and vegan gluten-free cookies. Besides these complimentary snacks and drinks, business class fare — $20 to $30 more than coach — gives passengers the services of an attendant; additional leg room; priority boarding; and a fully refundable ticket if canceled prior to departure. Seats in

AMTRAK’S SURFLINER, left, passes through Gaviota State Beach, 33 miles west of Santa Barbara. Much of the 351-mile Surfliner route between San Diego and San Luis Obispo includes spectacular shoreline, quaint towns and, at this time of year, emerald-green foothills, some that can be seen only by plane or train. At right, the seven-hour-plus trip from Oceanside to San Luis Obispo allows passengers to set up camp for working, reading and watching California’s coastline pass by the windows. Courtesy photo/Photo by E’Louise Ondash

all coaches have outlets for charging devices, and Wi-Fi is available throughout most of the ride. Our destination on this early-January day: San Luis Obispo, or SLO Town as locals call it. This Central Coast town (population 45,000; 65,000 when Cal Poly is in session) also is the end of the line for the Surfliner. Our goal: to spend 3½, car-free days in SLO. (More on that later.) There is plenty to see outside Amtrak’s Surfliner windows on the run between San Diego and San Luis Obispo. This community

garden in Carpinteria, the stop between Santa Barbara and Ventura, sits adjacent to the tracks. Photo by E’Louise Ondash The Surfliner is not the fastest way to get from North County to SLO — although it could be depending on what happens as you thread your way through the maze of freeways that is Los Angeles. Today, however, we find that spending a couple of extra leisurely hours on the train is a more-thanfair trade for avoiding the often-white-knuckle drive through the state’s largest metro area. In fact, as our

train pulls into SLO, I find myself hustling to stash my iPad, notes and book into my backpack and wishing we had just a bit more train time. Looking back on our 350-mile, six-county trip, we found it both relaxing and entertaining. I relished the uninterrupted time for reading, and when my eyes needed a break, there was an IMAX show happening right outside our window. We saw stunning coastline, quaint small towns worth further investigating, and some awe-inspiring countryside that, in some

cases, can only be seen by plane or train. There are two dozen stations between Oceanside and SLO, and though that sounds like a lot, the train never stops for more than a minute at each station. I occasionally checked our progress on my phone, and was surprised at the meandering route of the Surfliner, sometimes heading due north and sometimes heading due west — a reminder that California’s coastline sometimes faces south. The seven-hour-plus trip from Oceanside to San Luis Obispo on Amtrak’s

Surfliner allows passengers to set up camp for working, reading and watching California’s coastline pass by the windows. Photo by E’Louise Ondash Some of the scenes beyond our window were expected; some were not. I’ll remember what must be the healthiest magnolia trees in Southern California, thriving near the Simi Valley Station; the looming Santa Ynez Mountains; early stages of construction of a village near Moorpark Station; the seemingly endless emerald hills of Lompoc and strawberry fields of Camarillo; the community garden of Carpinteria; the Victorians of Oxnard; the sharp silhouette of the Channel Islands, looking as if they’d been pasted on the horizon; the cyclists peddling along Highway 1; the historic Ventura Pier stretching into the ocean; and the sunlight dancing on the hypnotizing Pacific surf, reminding us why we endure the high cost of West Coast living. All of this made climbing out of bed at the ungodly hour of 3 a.m. very much worth it. The damage caused by recent heavy rains may necessitate the periodic closure of portions of the track, so check with the Surfliner’s schedule. Travel by bus may be necessary to bypass these sections. For more photos and discussion, visit www.facebook.com/elouise.ondash.

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T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 2, 2024

Eat&Drink

Beer in Review: A year of indie craft breweries I Like

Beer

jeff spanier

y the time this article is published, most Americans will have faltered — or forgotten — their New Year’s resolutions. I am happy to report that I successfully maintained my annual commitment, one that I have pledged to again this year: Supporting local, independent craft breweries and taprooms. Even in my travels across the country and abroad, I seek out small, unique, independently-owned businesses. I find that they always have a story to share as well as terrific beers, unlike the mainstream and larger brewery options. More often than not, I get to meet an equally impressive owner, brewer or COLAB PUBLIC House in Vista is one of the columnist’s favorite spots to meet with family and team member. Here is my 2023 Beer in friends for craft beer or a glass of wine. Courtesy photo/CoLab Public House Review: water Brewing, has been a El Tambor Mexican Lager very good beers. Check January: I rang in the go-to spot when meeting up with Noelle Dubois, owner the archives for this heartNew Year with a Gold Med- with friends and family who of Bang the Drum Brewery warming story. al-winning beer, Rye Dawn also want to enjoy a glass of in San Luis Obispo. I also brown ale from Breakwater wine. (Vista) had one of their homemade May: After a long wait, Brewing Company. chicken pot pies and cookies I was able to gain memberThe CoLab Public February: On the baked on the premises. ship to Horus Aged Ales! House, which houses Break- Central Coast, I enjoyed an And even though I didn’t get March: Puna Pils, an to take a bottle home until outstanding pilsner brewed quite a while later, it was by Tipping Pint’s Adam quite an experience to visit Jester. Jester shared his sto- Horus Aged Ales and meet ry and quite a few of the Tip- owner-brewer Kyle Hallop ping Pint lineup that day. in Oceanside. (Now that Good day. The story of I’ve enjoyed several, the wait FULLY LICENSED CALIFORNIA FIREARMS DEALER Tipping Pint and a review of was well worth it.) NEW • USED • CONSIGNMENT • FFL TRANSFERS • ESTATE several beers can be found in the archives for this article. June: One of the small(Oceanside) est nano breweries I’ve ever stumbled across, Three Mile April: Because the Brewing in downtown Davis quality of a beer is enhanced is a beer for a beer, one of the by time, place, and the peo- best breweries you’ll find. ple with whom the beer is It’s impossible for me enjoyed, the Cul Dorcha to pass near Davis without dark ale I had in Dingle, stopping for a Honey Blonde GUNTHERGUNS.COM Ireland, at Tig Bhric Pub made with locally sourced OPEN TUE - SUN 10AM-6PM & West Kerry Brewing was honey and a hint of orange 2717 LOKER AVE. one of the best beers I’ve peel. WEST, SUITE B CARLSBAD | 760-444-1100 ever had. Ever. And I’ve had a lot of July: I stumbled upon

GUNTHER GUNS GUN STORE

IN DECEMBER, an 80-degree day called for a Mad Neighbor blonde ale on the patio of Culver Beer Company in Carlsbad. Courtesy photo/Culver Beer Co.

The Ale Apothecary in Bend, Oregon, on my way to a favorite place, Good Life Brewing. The tasting room was only open for forty-five more minutes, but it was a very impressive short visit. Unique wild and sour ales made using “ancient arts” and modern innovations. I left with several bottles. August: In an earlier trip to Seattle, my visit to Georgetown Brewing had been thwarted. So, this trip was highly anticipated. Instead of chastising myself for missed opportunities, I relished in the absolutely mind-boggling number of excellent beers. Manny’s Pale Ale may be the best pale ale I’ve ever tasted. I had several to reassess and confirm that judgment. September: When it’s September, local beer enthusiasts know you head to Eppig Brewing for Festbier. “Festbier is the best beer,” claims co-owner Clayton LeBlanc. In September, he’s absolutely right. (Vista) October: This month, I met Chris Leguizamon,

a beer educator at Pure Project. Chris walked me through several tastings. His notes and guidelines for tasting have had a lasting impact on how I sample beer. Astral Infusion is a barrel-aged sour made with pluots and elderflower. Find it, try it. (Vista) November: Owners Mike and Ewa Zane celebrated Inzane Brewing’s 1st year anniversary with a Golden Ale that was a shocking 9%. This golden strong ale was smooth and warming, with a slight malty sweetness. (Vista) December: On an 80-degree December day after Christmas, I enjoyed a sandwich and a Mad Neighbor blonde ale on the back patio of Culver Beer Company. Not a bad way to end 2023. (Carlsbad) I am proud to say I have continued my resolution into 2024. See you out at our local breweries! Jeff Spanier is the co-host of I Like Beer the Podcast. Follow Spanier’s adventures on Instagram @ilikebeerthepodcast.

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BAGBY BEER SOLD TO OC’S GREEN CHEEK After nearly a decade, Jeff and Dande Bagby, husband-and-wife owners of Bagby Beer, announced the sale of their Oceanside brewpub to Orange County brewer Green Cheek Beer Company. “The time has at last come for a change here at Bagby Beer Company. We’ve hoped to share our love for great things of top quality through countless expressions, large and small, that collectively have become the Bagby experience for our guests and employees.” The changeover is expected sometime in early 2024. Courtesy photo/Bagby Beer

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 2, 2024

Helping farmers rethink soil By Samantha Nelson

ENCINITAS — The Solana Center for Environmental Innovation is offering help with applications for a state program providing farmers and ranchers up to $100,000 to develop environmentally friendly soil practices. The California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Healthy Soil Program Incentive Grant aims to support the implementation of conservation management practices that sequester carbon, reduce atmospheric greenhouse gases (GHGs) and improve soil health. Rather than using traditional agricultural practices that apply nitrogen and other chemical-based fertilizers, the program helps farmers make the switch to cleaner options, like compost, mulch, native species hedgerows and cover crops. Not only do these op-

THE SOLANA Center for Environmental Innovation is offering to assist farmers applying for grant funding to develop environmentally friendly soil practices. Photo by Bernard Bodo

tions improve the health and longevity of soil, but they also prevent toxic runoff and conserve water as opposed to traditional practices, the group said. “The more organic material you have, the more porous it is — it's more like a sponge versus dry, hard soil,” explained Jessica

Bombar, director of marketing and education for the Solana Center. Encinitas-based Solana Center, a non-profit organization that has provided waste diversion and environmental education regionally for 40 years, has TURN TO SOIL ON 15

VISTA DEPUTY MAYOR Katie Melendez, left, speaks with Vista Unified School District Superintendent Matthew Doyle during the State of the Community at the Civic Center on Jan. 22. Photo by Laura Place

VISTA

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

through the safe parking program since it opened. The city is also anticipating opening its first permanent supportive housing development, which broke ground last May. The Santa Fe Senior Village in downtown Vista will provide 54 furnished studio and one-bedroom apartments to residents age 62 and older who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, as well as veterans experiencing housing insecurity. Franklin also extensively discussed plans for the city’s first non-congregate shelter, the Buena Creek Navigation Center, to open in March. Five million dollars secured by State Sen. Catherine Blakespear will fund the center’s first three years of operation, with a contract granted to Retread, Inc. last month. Franklin said the low-barrier shelter will be unique in the region, providing more privacy to clients with two-person rooms operated out of two multifamily apartment buildings. It will be co-leased with the city of Encinitas, with

rooms set aside for residents from both cities. “The 24 bedrooms here at the Buena Creek Navigation Center. are empty today, but within just a few months, they’ll be full of warm furnishings, ready to welcome new residents,” Franklin said. “I believe this from the bottom of my heart: the city of Vista has done more to passionately address homelessness, more to provide solutions, and more to reach out to individuals living on our streets than any other city on a per-capita basis in our county.”

New homelessness committee

Looking ahead to the following year, the city is continuing its work to implement its Strategic Plan to Address Homelessness. On Jan. 23, one day after the State of the Community, the City Council discussed the possibility of forming a new standing committee to address homelessness-related topics and make recommendations to the council. Councilmember Corinna Contreras said the city needs a committee that can meet in public session each

month to address many of the issues related to homelessness that the City Council does not always have the time to discuss in depth. “We just do not have enough meetings in the year to address the severity of the issue of homelessness,” said Contreras. “We need another government-sanctioned place to talk about these really important topics.” The Homeless Services Program Manager is in charge of the city’s internal Homelessness Working Group, which includes representatives from various city departments, outside service providers, and public agencies. Deputy Mayor Katie Melendez said there is a need for a committee with more direction and oversight than the existing working group and recommended that the new committee draw from members of that group to prevent work from being duplicated. The council established an ad hoc committee of Melendez and Franklin to meet with the working group and determine how to move forward. The membership of the new committee is to be determined at a later time.

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Feb. 2, 2024

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

EVENTS CALENDAR

Know something that’s going on? To post an event, visit us online at calendar.thecoastnews.com

FEB. 2

VALENTINE’S DAY DINNER

A pop up dinner in Encinitas with guest vintner Tooth & Nail Wine Co. setting the stage for a romantic evening of wining and dining. $125, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Feb. 9 at The Cottage Restaurant Encinitas, 127 N El Camino Real, Encinitas.

VISTA GARDEN CLUB

California native landscaping will be the topic of Vista Garden Club’s February meeting. The speaker is Lucy Warren, master gardener and co-author of two books on California native plants. 1:45 p.m. at Jim Porter Recreation Center , 1200 Vale Terrace Dr, Vista.

FEB. 10

KIDS IN THE GARDEN

MIRACOSTA LEARNING

Please come and join us to hear amazing speakers! From authors to zoologists, we feature them every Friday at the MiraCosta Campus in Oceanside. Free, 1 p.m. at MiraCosta College, 1 Barnard Dr, Oceanside.

FEB. 3

HAWK WATCH

The Wildlife Research Institute in Ramona invites you to Hawk Watch, each Saturday in January and February at Begent Ranch in Ramona. Arrive at 9:30 for coffee and donuts, then enjoy the free program. Biologists and local expert volunteer observers will help you spot and identify birds and show them to you through our high-powered professional telescopes. Free, 10 a.m. at Begent Ranch, 18528 Highland Valley Rd, Ramona. LAGOON CLEANUP

THE BLIND BOYS of Alabama, five-time Grammy Award-winning gospel artists, perform on Feb. 7 at the Belly Up in Solana Beach. Courtesy photo

novative and thought-provoking works of artist Hiroshi McDonald Mori. Opening reception from 3-5 p.m. at Oolong Gallery, 687 2nd St, Encinitas. WARRIOR SPIRIT 5K

All of the proceeds of the 15th annual Warrior Spirit 5k Run/Walk will go to the Mitchell Thorp Foundation. Free-$55, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Feb. 3 at Poinsettia Park, 6600 Hidden Valley Rd, Carlsbad.. MUSIC MAKERS CONCERT

Enjoy a night of fun and great music in an intimate setting with Stacy Antonel & The Beard And The Bird. Hors d’oeuvres and wine will be provided. Feel free to bring a bottle of wine of your own to share with the group. The exact location will be provided via email upon purchasing a ticket. HOME IMPROVEMENT EXPO Get your tickets today at Should you move or https://shorturl.at/qJU06. improve? We feature real $20, 6-9 p.m. Escondido. content and real knowledge direct from expert represen- YOUR WEIGHT MATTERS A free weight and health tatives of various professional home-improvement and event. 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Feb. maintenance organizations. 3 at The Cassara Carlsbad, Free, 10-5 p.m. on Feb. 3, 5805 Armada Dr, Carlsbad.. and 10-4 p.m. on Feb. 4 at Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2236 NEW HISTORIES Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del A new exhibition by artMar. ist Alanna Airitam explores Black history through a new TECH-Y TUTORS 4 SENIORS lens. Free, Fridays and SatA free technology tutor- urdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. ing workshop will help older at The Photographer’s Eye adults learn how to get the Gallery, 326 E Grand Ave, most out of their phone, tab- Escondido. let or laptop. Bring charged devices to workshop for assistance. Free, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Feb. 3 at Encinitas MARDI GRAS BRUNCH Community & Senior CetThe Oceanside Cultural ner, 1140 Oakcrest Park Dr, Arts Foundation presents Encinitas. its traditional Mardi Gras Brunch. Supports local high NERD COMEDY NIGHT school students. Reservation Come out to Nerd Com- deadline is Jan. 25. $100, 11 edy Night every Saturday in a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 4 at El Carlsbad. $15-$20, 8-9:15 Camino Country Club, 3202 p.m. Feb. 3 at New Village Vista Way, Oceanside. Arts Theatre, 2787 State St, Carlsbad. CLINTON ROSS DAVIS Clinton Davis will perHIROSHI MCDONALD MORI form the music of Jelly Roll Oolong Gallery an- Morton on piano and guitar, nounced the upcoming solo as well as music from guiexhibition featuring the in- tarists like Johnny St. Cyr, Cardiff Farmer’s Market is teaming up with We Clean Trails to clean trash along footpaths and roadways around the San Elijo Lagoon. Meet at the Cardiff 101 info booth. 10 a.m. at Cardiff Farmer’s Market, 3333 Manchester Ave, Cardiff by the Sea.

FEB. 4

and composers like Scott Joplin. Free, 2-3 p.m. Feb. 4 at Encinitas Library, 540 Cornish Dr, Encinitas.

munity organizing with Andreína aka Nina Maldonado. Free-$5, 6:30-8 p.m. Feb. 8 at California State University San Marcos, Arts Building 111, 333 S Twin HANDS-ON KIMCHI Kimchi is a Korean Oaks Valley Rd, San Marstyle of fermented vegeta- cos. bles. It’s usually spicy and there are hundreds of ways SAY SHE SHE, RAHILL to make it. Learn how to Say She She, the soulmake your own kimchi at ful female-led group, and home. $69-$128. 11 a.m. to Rahill Jamalifard, a multi1:30 p.m. Feb. 4 at Maya disciplinary artist and muMoon Collective, 3349 Ad- sician hailing from Michams Ave, San Diego. igan, perform at the Belly Up. $22-$39, doors open at 7 p.m. Feb. 8 at Belly Up, CULTURE OF LOWRIDERS The North County low- 143 S. Cedros Ave, Solana rider community shares the beach, CA history and culture of lowriding in our community CATHOLIC WIDOWS with a live panel discussion We love to get togethhosted by Jimmy Figuero. er to share our love for the Free, 2-4 p.m. Feb. 4 at outdoors and also for food, Oceanside Theatre Com- drink and company. Why pany, 217 N Coast Hwy, not join us, Catholic WidOceanside. ows and Widowers of North County, for a nice walk and then a meal after. 10 a.m. at Kit Carson Park, 3333 Bear Valley Pkwy S, Escondido. EVERYTHING DISSOLVES Kline Swonger is a cross-disciplinary artist whose work will be on display in the Kruglak Gal- ‘A NIGHT OF NEIL’ lery on MiraCosta College’s Celebrate the fabled Oceanside campus. Runs songwriting and musical from Feb. 6 until March 1 at career of Neil Diamond, as Kruglak Art Gallery, 1 Bar- Scott Samuels & Solitary nard Dr, Oceanside. Diamonds re-create some of Neil’s very best songs with stunning authenticity. $20$25, 7-9 p.m. Feb. 9 at The Brooks Theatre, 217 N Coast A ROSE IS A ROSE Master gardener Betty Hwy, Oceanside. Corvey presents everything you ever wanted to know JIMBO’S GARDEN Enjoy a special garabout roses, and then some. Free, 9:45 to 11:30 a.m. Feb. den workshop in the Trudy 7 at Carlsbad Senior Center, Bronner Discovery Garden with Jimbo’s Naturally Es799 Pine Ave, Carlsbad. condido!. 5 p.m. at San Diego Children’s Discovery BLIND BOYS OF ALABAMA The Blind Boys of Al- Museum, 320 N Broadway, abama, recognized world- Escondido. wide as living legends of gospel music, perform at HUTCHINS CONSORT The Hutchins Consort the Belly Up. $55-$97, doors open at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 7 at presents “Greatest Hits Belly Up, 143 S. Cedros Ave, The Last 10 Years” concert, featuring new composer Solana Beach. in residence, Andres Martin, as both composer and performer. $10-$40, 7 p.m. OUR WORK/OUR DIGNITY at St. Andrews Episcopal Socially engaged per- Church, 890 Balour Dr, Enformance practice for com- cinitas.

FEB. 6

FEB. 9

FEB. 7

FEB. 8

Children can learn about the animals that live at the Alta Vista Botanical Gardens and their habitats. The presentation will follow up with a walkabout through the gardens. Registration required. $5, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Feb. 10 at Alta Vista Botanical Gardens, 1270 Vale Terrace Dr, Vista. SCRIPPS AT BATIQUITOS

ARTIST RECEPTION

The reception will celebrate handcrafted “heartworks” by artists Josh Levin and Penny Michelle of the San Dieguito Art Guild. 2 to 5 p.m. Feb. 10 at Off Track Gallery, 937 S Coast Highway 101, Encinitas.

FEB. 11

SUPER BOWL

Watch the Super Bowl at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar. $49, 2 p.m. at Fairmont Grand Del Mar, 5300 Grand del Mar Ct, San Diego. THE KOOK RUN

Kick off your Super Bowl Sunday with a 10K or 5K and race down Coast Highway 101. Take in epic views of the Pacific Ocean and a few world-famous surf breaks during The Kook Run presented by BUBS Naturals kick. $15$75, 7 a.m. at The Encinitas Sign, 480 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas.

Ben Frable, collection manager of the Marine Vertebrate Collection at Scripps Institution, will present his story of how he discovered several rare football fish that washed up on San Diego Beaches. 10 a.m. at Batiquitos Nature Center, 7380 Gabbiano Ln, Carlsbad. MIRACOSTA CEREMONY A ribbon-cutting cerMARDI GRAS MAMBO emony is planned to mark Nathan Williams pro- the opening of the new Kivides a direct connection nesiology, Health and Nuto Zydeco’s storied pioneers trition Building and Gymsuch as Clifton Chenier and nasium Complex at the Boozoo Chavis. Once again, Oceanside campus. 10 a.m. The Dirty Dozen Brass Band at MiraCosta College, 1 Barand Nathan and the Zydeco nard Dr, Oceanside. Cha Cha’s will deliver a nonstop Mardi Gras celebration that will everyone on their feet. $30-$80. 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Feb. 10 at California GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY The North San Diego Center for the Arts, 340 N Escondido Blvd, Escondido. Genealogical Society continues the “Learning from Members” series with forHEALTH & FITNESS EXPO mer genealogy librarian The Encinitas Chamber Mary Von Orsdol, who will of Commerce is hosting its discuss how she broke “the first-ever Health and Well- rules” to solve her ancestry. ness Expo in partnership 10-11 a.m. Feb. 13 at Farwith the city of Encinitas. aday Center, Faraday Ave, Free, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. Carlsbad. 10 at Encinitas Community and Senior Center, 1140 Oakcrest Park Dr, Encini- SINGING VALENTINES The Music Men Chotas. rus are delivering singing valentines to North CounBOOK CRAWL ty residents. $60, 10 a.m. Join the Friends of the to 8 p.m. Feb. 13 and Feb. Encinitas Library in loca- 14 at San Marcos Lutheran tions throughout Solana Church, 3419 Grand Ave, Beach, Cardiff, Encinitas San Marcos. and Rancho Santa Fe for the first annual Coast and Ranch Book Crawl. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Feb. 10-17 at various locations: Title DOLLY PARTON VALENTINE A tribute of Dolly’s Wave Bookstore, Cardiff Book Nook, Friends of the hits from the ’60s to today Encinitas Library Bookstore featuring Nena Anderand RSF Book Cellar. For son, Brawley, and Special more info, contact Friends Guests, benefiting the Keep of the Encinitas Library at A Breast Foundation. $20$35, 8-11 p.m. Feb. 14 at (760) 944-7294. Belly Up, 143 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach. KOGEE SOUL REPRISE The KoGee Soul Reprise brings the music of SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY Celebrate Valentine’s Stevie Wonder to life in this fantastic tribute show. The Day with an exclusive San nine-piece band with guitar, Diego Symphony perforkeyboard, horns and more mance at the Capella Saled by the dynamic Kori Gil- lon within the Grand Del lis. $30, 8 to 10:30 p.m. Feb. Mar. $65, 6 p.m. at Fair10 at Oceanside Theatre mont Grand Del Mar, 5300 Company, 217 N Coast Hwy, Grand del Mar Ct, San Diego. Oceanside.

FEB. 12

FEB. 13

FEB. 14

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 2, 2024

628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803 CUSTOMER SERVICE: 800-708-7311 EXT. 257 TRIVIA TEST #12345_20240129 FOR RELEASE JANUARY 29, 2024 By Fifi Rodriguez

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FOR RELEASE JANUARY 29, 2024 By Fifi Rodriguez

1. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a is a 1. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What beaver’s home called? beaver’s2.home called?In which state U.S. STATES: wouldSTATES: you find Crater Lake? 2. U.S. In which state 3. TELEVISION: Which animated would you find Crater cartoon character says,Lake? “What’s up, Doc?” 3. TELEVISION: Which animated LITERATURE: Who is the author cartoonof4.“The character Exorcist”?says, “What’s up, Doc?” 5. MATH: In Roman numerals, what is XVIII times V? 4. LITERATURE: Who the author 6. ANATOMY: How manyis vertebrae in the human spine? of “TheareExorcist”? 7. GEOGRAPHY: Which nation is 5. MATH: Roman what home to In Europe’s largestnumerals, glacier? MOVIES: is XVIII8.times V? In which film does Doris Day sing “Que Sera, Sera”? 6. ANATOMY: Howis many vertebrae 9. SCIENCE: What anemophily? MUSIC: Who sang the hit “Girls are in the10.human spine? Just Want to Have Fun”? 7. GEOGRAPHY: Which nation is Answers home to1.Europe’s largest glacier? A lodge. 8. MOVIES: 2. Oregon. In which film does 3. Bugs Bunny. Doris Day sing “Que Sera, Sera”? 4. William Peter Blatty. 9. SCIENCE: 5. XC (90). What is anemophily? 6. 33. 10. MUSIC: Who sang the hit “Girls 7. Iceland. Just Want to Have Fun”? 8. “The Man Who Knew Too Much.” 9. Pollination by the wind. Answers 10. Cyndi Lauper. 1. A lodge.© 2024 King Features Synd., Inc. 2. Oregon. 3. Bugs Bunny. 4. William Peter Blatty. 5. XC (90). 6. 33. 7. Iceland. 8. “The Man Who Knew Too Much.” 9. Pollination by the wind. 10. Cyndi Lauper.

1. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a beaver’s home called? 2. U.S. STATES: In which state would you find Crater Lake? 3. TELEVISION: Which animated cartoon character says, “What’s up, Doc?” 4. LITERATURE: Who is the author of “The Exorcist”? 5. MATH: In Roman numerals, what is XVIII times V? 6. ANATOMY: How many vertebrae are in the human spine? 7. GEOGRAPHY: Which nation is home to Europe’s largest glacier? 8. MOVIES: In which film does Doris Day sing “Que Sera, Sera”? 9. SCIENCE: What is anemophily? 10. MUSIC: Who sang the hit “Girls Just Want to Have Fun”? Answers 1. A lodge. 2. Oregon. 3. Bugs Bunny. 4. William Peter Blatty. 5. XC (90). 6. 33. 7. Iceland. 8. “The Man Who Knew Too Much.” 9. Pollination by the wind. 10. Cyndi Lauper. © 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE,

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 2, 2024

Esco foundation opens artist grant applications By City News Service

OVER $53 MILLION in federal funds will go to the North County Transit District for the replacement of the 107-year-old San Dieguito Bridge in Del Mar, ushering in much-needed repairs to the North County segment of the LOSSAN rail corridor. The funding will also cover the creation of a special events platform at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Courtesy photo/NCTD

BRIDGE

CONTINUED FROM 5

maintain this bridge than on any other bridge that’s located within our region’s portion of the coastal rail corridor,” Edson said. The completion of the new bridge is essential to being able to start other high-priority rail projects, namely the relocation of the rail tracks off of the failing Del Mar bluffs. The new corridor, likely to run through tunnels under the city, will ultimately connect to the new double-tracked bridge. The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG), the agency overseeing the rail relocation, aims to have the tracks off the bluffs by 2035. The needed funding for the project will likely be in the billions and remains to be identified. “That project is critical to moving the tracks off of the Del Mar bluffs. In order to go into a tunnel, this project has to be done first. We have to have double tracking; it has to be out of the lagoon and has to be raised up eight feet,” Blakespear said. Levin also announced that the rail corridor has been added to the federal Corridor Identification and Development (ID) program, which facilitates the identification of projects for strategically important rail corridors across the country. As part of being enrolled in the program, the Federal Railroad Ad-

SOIL

CONTINUED FROM 11

been helping farmers navigate the application process for the grants since 2017, which Bombar said can be time-consuming and confusing for busy farmers to tackle on their own. Despite the somewhat daunting application process, Bombar described the program as worthwhile for the benefit of both farmers and the environment. “It’s a great program,” she said. “It covers the hard costs of materials and is just really helpful for getting compost to cover large areas of farms.” According to Bombar, many farmers want to use healthier soil practices but don’t always have the money or resources to make the switch, which is why the grant is particularly useful. Farmers who receive

REP. MIKE LEVIN, center, joined state and local leaders at the Oceanside Transit Center on Jan. 25 to present a check for nearly $54 million to the North County Transit District to replace the antiquated San Dieguito Bridge in Del Mar. From left, California Environmental Voters federal advocacy coordinator Aaron McCall, state Sen. Catherine Blakespear, Levin, NCTD Board Chair Jewel Edson, Solana Beach Mayor Lesa Heebner and Oceanside City Councilmember Eric Joyce. Photo by Laura Place

ministration has issued a $500,000 grant to create an initial development plan for the corridor. Levin said that while this may seem like a small amount of money, it ultimately increases the chance of obtaining additional funding for needed improvements like the Del Mar rail relocation. “That will put us on a much better path forward to be able to secure the potentially billions of dollars in additional funding that will be needed,” Levin said. While these are positive steps forward, officials say more leadership at the state level is needed to ful-

ly realize critical rail improvements. Blakespear, who is also the chair of a new Senate subcommittee focused on resiliency for the LOSSAN corridor, said she is working to align state interests with those of the local and regional agencies that have been driving the project. “When we’re asking for greater state leadership, what we’re really saying is, we want to align goals and have a shared set of commitments to meeting those goals. Right now, we don’t have a system that’s doing it,” Blakespear said. “What does the state want to see?”

the grant funding enter into a three-year program. Over that time, they begin to see improvements in the health and quality of their soils. “It has compounding benefits,” Bombar said. The program seeks to reach farm of all sizes, including smaller local farms as well as large production farms. The Solana Center is offering assistance to farmers throughout San Diego, Imperial and Riverside Counties. “We’re excited to support farmers and ranchers in implementing innovative programs that reduce the carbon footprint of the agriculture industry and help our region’s local farmers make improvements that impact our community’s health, the present and future of our environment, and the economy,” said

Executive Director Jessica Toth. Bombar encouraged any farmers who are curious about the program to schedule a free assistance call with the Solana Center to learn more. The center can also schedule visits directly to the farms for further assistance. According to the state’s Healthy Soils Program webpage, this year’s grant solicitation process is currently open to applications until 5 p.m. on Feb. 9. To book an assistance call and learn more, visit www.solanacenter.org/ healthy-soils-program. A recently recorded informational webinar is also on the Solana Center’s website for farmers who are interested in learning more before setting up a call that is available in English and Spanish.

ESCONDIDO — The Escondido Community Foundation announced a new round of grant funding inviting artists or organizations to create public artwork for the upcoming “Art Speaks: Escondido” initiative. The Escondido Community Foundation, a regional affiliate of San Diego Foundation, will accept proposals for the showcase until Feb. 20. Proposals should feature “artwork that offers broad community benefits such as fostering a sense of place, enhancing Escondido’s image and identity, and heightening community exposure to and appreciation of the arts,” a statement from the foundation reads. “This is the second phase of our Arts and Beautification Initiative, which will work with the city of Escondido, California Center for the Arts, Escondido and local artists,” said Lisa Ruder, Escondido Community Foundation member and chair of the foundation’s special projects operations team. “Our goals are to enhance the image of Escondido, increase community pride while supporting underrepresented artists, and encourage commu-

nity-based, interactive designs that will engage the public in meaningful ways.” The foundation will host a grant seekers forum at 4 p.m. on Feb. 12 on Zoom. During the forum, San Diego Foundation, California Center for the Arts, Escondido, and city of Escondido staff, along with Escondido Community Foundation volunteers, will be available to answer questions about the grant process and help artists who are considering whether to submit a proposal. Those interested in attending the forum should RSVP to Eve Childs at echilds@sdfoundation. org by Feb. 11. Organizations and artists that are moved forward through the proposal process will be invited to submit a full proposal for art projects ranging from $15,000 to $50,000 by May 15, and will be provided a stipend for their time. All artwork is to be placed in the city of Escondido. The project must be achievable before Dec. 31. Guidelines, including directions on how to register and apply, can be accessed at www.escondidocommunityfoundation. org.

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