Inland Edition, July 21, 2023

San Marcos city manager put on leave

By Laura Place

SAN MARCOS — In

a closed session meeting on July 7, the San Marcos City Council voted to place longtime City Manager Jack Griffin on paid administrative leave.

Griffin has been city manager since 2012, with a contract extension through 2026.

Swim school settles suit for $40,000

Instructor’s trial set for Sept. 27 after new delay

By Laura Place

VISTA — The jury trial for a former swim instructor charged with sexually abusing young children in North County has been delayed to September, while a separate civil case against Callan Swim School, where the instructor worked, has been settled for $40,000.

GRIFFIN

City officials have not determined if he will be paid his approximately $232,000 salary until then.

Mayor Rebecca Jones and council members Ed Musgrove and Mike Sannella carried the decision on a 3-2 vote, according to city spokesperson Tess Sangster.

“Details regarding the decision will not be shared publicly as it involves a personnel matter,” Sangster said.

The council unanimously appointed Assistant City Manager Michelle Bender as acting city manager.

NEXT STEP

Pitcher Kyle Carr was one of three players with San Marcos and Palomar College ties selected in last week’s MLB draft. Carr, a San Marcos High School graduate, was taken in the third round by the New York Yankees. Sports on Page 9 Palomar College Athletics photo/Cara Heise

Hedge fund buys San Diego Union-Tribune

By Jordan P. Ingram REGION

— After five years of ownership, billionaire Patrick Soon-Shiong has sold the San Diego Union-Tribune to an affiliate of Denver-based newspaper publisher MediaNews Group for an undisclosed sum, according to company emails.

Soon-Shiong and his family will maintain ownership of the Los Angeles Times, per media reports. MediaNews Group, formerly Digital First Media, is owned by Alden Global Capital, a New York hedge

fund and the second-largest newspaper owner behind Gannett.

Chris Argentieri, president and COO of California Times, once the parent company of both the Los Angeles Times and Union-Tribune, confirmed the sale in an internal July 10 email obtained by The Coast News.

“As of this afternoon, we have completed the transaction to sell The San Diego Union-Tribune to an affiliate of MediaNews Group (MNG),” Argentieri wrote to Union-Tribune employees. “For all of us who remain

with the California Times, we will continue focusing on building a prosperous future for the Los Angeles Times.”

The email also included a message from SoonShiong, who had previously denied rumors he was exploring the possible sale of the newspapers in 2021.

“Five years later, my family and I remain grateful for the opportunity to work with you at both the Los Angeles Times and San Diego Union-Tribune,” Soon-Shiong wrote in the email. “The Union-Tribune is a great news organization

with a long, distinguished history that I hope will continue to serve the San Diego community for generations to come. Our intention now is to focus on the ongoing work of transforming the L.A. Times into a self-sustaining institution. Our hometown of Los Angeles and the state of California – really, the West Coast –needs a strong, independent news organization. We believe in the L.A. Times and are committed to its future.”

But news of the sale has

Defendant Nicholas Piazza, 20, was scheduled to go to trial on July 11 following a delay from May. At a hearing last month, attorneys agreed that delaying the trial again to Sept. 27 would allow attorneys on both sides to more thoroughly prepare, said Deputy District Attorney Isaac Jackson.

“Both sides discussed that that’s a realistic time when everyone will be ready. We want to make sure everyone has time to do a full investigation, retain experts, and then there’s the matter of court availability,” said Jackson, who is prosecuting the case.

A readiness hearing has also been scheduled for Aug. 8.

Piazza is facing charges for “lewd and lascivious conduct” with three children aged five and seven while working as a swim instructor in 2021 and 2022.

The first of these incidents occurred in 2021 while Piazza was a swim instructor at Callan Swim School in San Marcos and

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BOONJINDASUP,

one thing I could control ... was my outlook’

Esco resident rebounds after serious snowboarding accident

By Samantha Nelson ESCONDIDO —

After experiencing a life-changing snowboarding accident, an Escondido resident has surpassed his recovery expectations with his positive outlook on life and dedication to fitness.

Ehrin Nussbaum, 36, has always liked to be on the move. Growing up in North County, he liked surfing, snowboarding, riding motorcycles and skydiving. He was eager to try new things.

“My motto is I’d rather regret the things I did than the things I didn’t do,” he said.

He picked up snowboarding about seven years ago as a hobby. Soon, he found himself traveling frequently from his home in Escondido to California snowboarding spots like Big Bear and Mammoth mountains, going as far as Jackson Hole in Wyoming.

On Jan. 30, 2022, Nussbaum was snowboarding at Big Bear. He was taking things easy after hurting his heel at Mammoth a week before.

As he attempted a 15foot jump at Big Bear, he realized he was falling way too fast after making the jump. Going somewhere between 35 and 40 mph, Nussbaum fell 35 feet verti-

cally and 100 feet horizontally.

His body slapped the ground, breaking several bones throughout his body.

He didn’t immediately realize how severe the damage was.

“I thought, oh this is going to suck tomorrow,” he said.

He first realized his left arm was broken. Then he discovered he couldn’t move his legs.

Nussbaum would later learn that he had dislocated his right leg, fracturing the femoral head, and fractured his left femur, with the bone sticking out of his skin. He also fractured his hip, L1-L5 vertebrae in his spine and humerus in his left arm.

Nussbaum was lucky to be with friends able to find help fast and prevent other snowboarders from hitting him. A rescue team brought him down the mountain on a sled to an ambulance, which then took him to a helicopter for transport to the nearest hospital.

In the helicopter, Nussbaum realized the full severity of his situation as he listened to the first responders’ concerns about his condition. It was imperative that he got to the closest hospital for fear that

the bone sticking out of his leg had cut an artery, which could cause him to bleed out.

Despite the dire situation, Nussbaum tried to stay positive by cracking jokes.

“The one thing I could control at the time was my

outlook on the situation,” he said. “I had to find what joy I could.”

Nussbaum went through a series of surgeries and remained in the hospital for a week and a half before being transferred to an acute care rehabilitation facility near Los Angeles.

There, he lived with his sister for several months while in a wheelchair until he was cleared to walk again in May.

Nussbaum spent the early days of his recovery learning what he was capable of. He set goals with physical therapists and even

began working out again in his sister’s home gym after he was discharged from the hospital.

“I wanted to be as independent as possible,” he said.

After returning home, he began going to EōS Fitness, a gym in Encinitas. He enjoyed going back to the gym atmosphere. It allowed him to reconnect with a fitness community that keeps him in check and have access to the variety of equipment at the gym, including its outdoor area features.

EōS Fitness recently selected Nussbaum as its “Submit Your Fit” gym-level winner for its Encinitas location. The contest recognizes gym members with transformational stories of how fitness has improved their lives.

Though Nussbaum still has some physical limitations, his recovery so far is beyond expectations. He has even returned to snowboarding, although he promises to never make any big jumps again.

Despite his positive outlook, the road to recovering from his injuries wasn’t easy and took its emotional toll.

“It’s okay not to be okay sometimes, but it’s not okay to stay there,” Nussbaum said. “We have a responsibility to those who are there for us to make a genuine effort to be there for ourselves.”

‘The

EHRIN NUSSBAUM fractured several bones in a snowboarding accident on Jan. 30, 2022. A rescue team, left, had to bring him down the mountain on a sled. Right, after learning to walk again, Nussbaum, 36, began going to a gym in Encinitas, where he was recognized for his transformational story. Courtesy photos

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State’s movie tax credit really works

If there’s one tax break

California lawmakers have granted that really works, it’s probably the film tax credit that was extended another five years the other day with a signature from Gov. Gavin Newsom.

While a lot of the talk about a massive population exodus from this state is exaggerated hyperbole (California having lost less than 2% of its populace to out-migration over the last decade), there was nothing fictional about what was happening in entertainment, the state’s third largest industry.

Promise, perils of AI

By George Galdorisi

The headline on the first page of the New York Times Sunday Opinion page in early July could not have been more stark or more menacing: “The True Threat of Artificial Intelligence: Technology Forged by Private Markets Won’t Solve the World’s Problems. It Will Only Amplify Them.”

If that statement doesn’t get your attention, it’s likely that nothing will.

It would be difficult to identify a technology that has been talked and written about more than those under the umbrella of artificial intelligence or AI.

The term AI is generally used to include big data, artificial intelligence and machine learning, a trifecta of technologies that impact our lives today and promise to have an even more profound effect in the future.

Sadly there is vastly more heat than light when AI technologies are discussed in the media.

The article mentioned above is a prime example. It notes, for example: “More than 350 technology executives, researchers and academics signed a statement warning of the existential dangers of artificial intelligence. They said that mitigating the risk of extinction from A.I. should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war.”

I suspect that we all agree that the phrase “risk of extinction” is pretty strong stuff.

Another article entitled: “Robot Overlords? Maybe Not,” quoted Alex Garland, director of the movie “Ex Machina,” who talked about artificial intelligence and quoted several tech industry leaders.

The theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking told us that “the development of full artificial intelligence could spell the end of the human race.”

Elon Musk, the chief executive of Tesla, told us that A.I. was “potentially more dangerous than nukes.”

Steve Wozniak, a co-founder of Apple, told us that “computers are going to take over from humans” and that “the future is scary and very bad for people.”

More strong stuff. More recently, the advent of AI-powered technologies such as ChatGPT, Bard and Bing have sent concerns about AI into overdrive.

Is it any wonder that the general public has become skeptical — or even fearful — of AI and why many are calling for a complete halt to AI development?

We (my fellow Coronado colleague Sam J. Tangredi) think that these fears are overwrought. We base this opinion on years of research that has been manifested in many articles in professional journals, numerous papers presented at professional conferences, and in two books, “AI at War: How Big Data, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Are Changing Naval Warfare” and the forthcoming, “Algorithms of Armageddon: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence On Future Wars” (both by the U.S. Naval Institute Press).

There is a saying attributed to H. L. Mencken: “For every complex problem there is an answer that is clear, simple and wrong.” In spite of this caution, it is rather straightforward to get to the bottom of fears about AI and suggest that there is a simple way to unpack concerns about artificial intelligence if we recognize the fact that the term AI is far too broad and encompasses too much.

Current AI systems, often referred to as “narrow AI” or sometimes “weak AI” are ones that exist today. These algorithms suggest pithy responses to an email, finish your sentence in an email, provide buying suggestions on various websites, defeat champions at chess or on game shows or many other tasks that happen in our daily lives often without our awareness.

Many technology advocates — and increasingly the general public — believe

that narrow AI can and will evolve into “artificial general intelligence” (AGI).

As the New York Times article points out: “AGI doesn’t exist yet, but some fear it could. However, that would mean that technologists will build systems that are generally smarter than humans.”

And therein lies the rub. The hype has outstripped reality. We would have to convince ourselves that humans will have the means (at present, highly doubtful) and the desire (again, why would they do that?) to create machines that will trump our human abilities, take over the world and end humanity because we humans are no longer necessary.

These dystopian scenarios are the stuff of science fiction, but for some reason, many take the leap that if computers can beat professional players in Texas Hold ’Em Power, they will somehow decide become too powerful to control.

While there is a popular term, “Never say never,” that is where our money is: We humans are a smart lot, and we won’t decide to build computers that even approach human consciousness.

Finally, it is worth recalling that due to the marvelous benefits that cutting-edge technology has bestowed on humanity, we do have a tendency to buy into technology hype.

To provide just one small example, a decade ago, legions of tech experts, venture capitalists, government officials and many others predicted that driverless cars would be ubiquitous on our highways today.

That hasn’t happened, and as deaths caused by driverless cars mount, the hype-induced vision of a driverless car future has dissipated.

We can manage AI. It will not manage us.

Television production was migrating en masse to newly built studios in Canadian cities like Vancouver and Toronto. Moves were increasingly filmed in Georgia, Louisiana, New Jersey, North Carolina and New York. All that was happening not because of greater resources, but because of tax subsidies granted by those states and some Canadian provinces.

Local governments went so far as to foot the bill for construction of studios, purchase of trailers for dressing rooms and even hotel bills.

So early in the last decade, California realized it could no longer take for granted its status as the entertainment capital of the world.

If the Golden State wasn’t careful, Los Angeles might have become little more than a home to studio executives, post-production houses and editing rooms. It could have been sayonara Hollywood, except for a whitewashed sign in the hills visible from the Santa Monica Freeway, a wax museum and some memorabilia shops along a few faded boulevards.

Some other industry easily could have displaced entertainment as the third biggest in this state, behind only high technology and agriculture.

But that didn’t occur; entertainment survived as big business here largely because of tax credits granted to the industry in return for keeping production within the state.

“You follow the money,” actor-director Ben Affleck told one reporter after the tax credit money began flowing. He noted that tax credits and incentives sometimes cover as much as one-third of production costs in a business where profit margins can be thin.

States go after California’s production schedules because they can lead to new jobs (mostly temporary ones) and more government revenue without the kind of environmental problems that accompany

new factories and other facilities.

Movie makers almost always guarantee host states they will leave conditions exactly as they were before, or better. Many a home in Southern California, for example, has gotten a face-lift after being used for a movie location.

One study showed that over the last decade, California’s tax credits produced at least $1.11 in state and local tax revenues for every dollar of tax benefits deployed.

Relatively small as California film location credits have been (less than one-fifteenth of national credits from a state with about one-ninth of the national population), the spending has led to more than $10 billion in movie spending in California over the last decade.

Plus, it helps keep the high-paid, highly taxed film industry executives and stars and their resources at home.

So it was only sensible for the Legislature and Newsom to renew those benefits this summer, along with a couple of new benefits to the industry.

One new bone tossed to the studios: When their credits are larger than their tax bills, they will now get cash payments from the state, rather than just carrying the benefit over to future years of tax returns.

The new rules also include safety factors inspired in part by the “Rust” debacle, where actor Alec Baldwin accidentally killed a cinematographer on a movie set in New Mexico because he believed a prop gun wasn’t loaded, when it was.

Movies involving firearms will now need to have a safety adviser on set during filming. Armorers and prop masters will also get new training and for the first time must be licensed.

Plus, a small part of tax credits will depend on meeting new diversity targets, with a subsidy for training film workers going to community colleges that serve mostly students of color.

It’s a deal that promises to keep entertainment big business in California and continue a tax benefit whose benefits to the state have long been proven.

Email Thomas Elias at tdelias@aol.com.

George Galdorisi is a Coronado resident and director of strategic assessments and technical futures for the Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific.

EUHSD fills board vacancy

By Samantha Nelson ESCONDIDO —

CHRISTMAS IN JULY AT TERI FUNDRAISER

The

Escondido schools approve budgets as state cuts loom

By Samantha Nelson ESCONDIDO —

Escondido

Union High School District board has appointed a new area representative after a former trustee’s resignation earlier this year.

After hearing from four applicants during a special board meeting on July 6, the school board unanimously selected David Vincent to represent Trustee Area 5.

The trustee seat became vacant when Jon Petersen resigned in May after serving nearly 23 years on the school board. In June, Petersen was hired as the district’s new superintendent.

Vincent has lived in Escondido for 27 years, where he and his wife, Franora, raised three daughters through the school district. He has a bachelor’s degree in industrial microbiology and a master’s and doctorate in public health.

Vincent is co-owner and chief executive officer of VTI Life Sciences, which helps pharmaceutical companies meet regulatory requirements. He has spent his career in San Diego in the biotechnology industry, having also served as a consultant and board member for several startup biotech firms in the region.

Beyond his status as a scientist and businessman, Vincent was also a San Diego State University professor, teaching in the regulatory affairs masters program.

According to his application, Vincent and his family have volunteered for local programs, including Meals on Wheels for seniors and supporting veterans in need through the Veterans Association of North County and AMVETS. They have also traveled abroad to protect endangered species, support public health initiatives, support UNICEF and Worldwide Hungry programs and provide consultation on global disease prevention with the Infectious Diseases Society of America.

Vincent’s goals as a trustee include preserving the district’s long-term fiscal responsibility and enhancing students’ access to STEM programs.

“We are seeing significant under-performance from our students in math and science,” Vincent said, noting that the trend is not just present in Escondido but statewide. “While the demand for workers in STEM fields has only increased, our schools have failed to keep up with that demand and prepare students for the 21st-century workforce.

sent shockwaves across the San Diego media landscape due to Alden Global Capital’s reputation for slashing newsroom costs via sweeping layoffs.

Greg Moran, a legal affairs and criminal justice reporter at the Union-Tribune, told The Coast News the sale waas a “disappointment” and came as a “big surprise” to the entire company, including management.

“I think it wasn’t handled very well and I haven’t got an explanation as to why (Soon-Shiong) sold the paper other than it’s a tough economy,” Moran said. “But take a number. Everybody’s having a hard time. We are a profitable company. Between the two companies the guy owned, we were making money.”

After working more than 33 years at the Union-Tribune, Moran has witnessed several ownership changes, including the 1992 merger between the San Diego Union and San Diego Evening Tribune.

For Moran, however, the most recent acquisition stands in relief to previous takeovers of San Diego County’s only major newspaper.

“I think the immediate future, I think (the Union-Tribune’s) going to be a smaller organization and certainly different, but I can’t say in which way,” Moran said. “I really, really hope

I’m proven wrong, but based on past performances there’s going to be less local news under MediaNews ownership and I think that has all kinds of implications.”

After forming in 2007, Alden Global established a large portfolio of media holdings, developing a track record as “vulture capital-

a handful of metro and suburban newspapers, including New York Daily News, The Baltimore Sun, Hartford Courant, The Virginian-Pilot and Orlando Sentinel.

According to The NewsGuild, a newspaper journalist labor union, the Chicago Tribune has lost about 30% of its editorial staff since

School districts in the city may soon face cuts after the governor and Legislature agreed on how to address a more than $30 billion state deficit in late June.

The budget deal reached late last month includes a $200 million cut to the Arts, Music, Instructional Materials Discretionary Block Grant and a $1.6 billion cut to the Learning Recovery Block Grant, which helps students who lost learning opportunities during the pandemic.

Gov. Gavin Newsom had proposed much larger reductions to both programs. The budget also includes an 8.22% cost-ofliving adjustment for public schools, which the governor intends to fully fund.

During its budget adoption process last month, staff and board members of the Escondido Union High School District hoped for the best when it came to proposed cuts.

“Hopefully we land somewhere in the middle,” Amanda Phillips, assistant superintendent of business services, said during a discussion on the budget at the June 13 school board meeting.

Staff may return to the board later to adjust its budget following these changes to state funding.

Another ongoing impact to the district besides rising costs is a decline in enrollment, something that

changes announced at the Los Angeles Times last month, the U-T will also need to make some difficult staffing decisions as we assume management,” Ryan wrote. “Reductions will be necessary to offset the slowdown in revenues as economic headwinds continue to impact the media indus-

many school districts are experiencing across the state.

California public schools have experienced an 8.6% decrease in enrollment since the 2015-2016 school year.

“That’s a significant number,” Phillips said.

EUHSD has lost 830 students since the 20152016 school year.

The district is still in good financial standing, as the board approved an anticipated $4.9 million surplus for the upcoming 2023-2024 year on June 20, which will increase the combined unrestricted and restricted fund balance to $51.9 million.

During his interview with the board on July 6, newly appointed Area 5 Trustee David Vincent said he was impressed by how the district has managed its money.

“The financial conservatism of this board has been phenomenal,” Vincent said.

At the Escondido Union School District, which oversees the city’s elementary and middle schools, the district expects to close the current fiscal year with a $29.4 million surplus in combined restricted and unrestricted funds, leaving an ending reserve balance of $84.9 million.

As for next year, however, the district expects expenditures to outpace revenues by about $5.4 million, leaving an ending reserve balance of approximately $78.3 million.

to make staffing reductions “voluntary.” In a statement detailing the company’s “voluntary separation plan,” fulltime employees will receive two weeks’ salary for the first year and an additional week’s pay every year after that, with a maximum of 40 weeks.

According to the email, employees have until noon on July 17 to complete the voluntary separation plan.

Despite Soon-Shiong’s outward commitment to preserving the Los Angeles Times, the sixth-largest daily newspaper in the U.S. has not been immune from recent downsizing and corporate “restructuring” in attempts to make the newspaper more profitable.

ists” — scooping up newspapers, gutting newsrooms and selling off the assets.

In 2018, Alden Global Capital purchased the Denver Post and quickly reduced Colorado’s largest daily newspaper’s staff by 70%.

In 2021, Alden Global purchased Tribune Publishing and its flagship daily, the Chicago Tribune, along with

Alden Global first acquired a stake in the company in 2019.

Sharon Ryan, executive vice president of MediaNews Group, confirmed fears of potentially draconian cuts to the Union-Tribune’s workforce in a follow-up message to employees shortly after news broke of the sale.

“No different than the

try. We will seek efficiencies in business operations, distribution and production while striving to support and prioritize the robust, local newsgathering needed to serve the communities that rely on the Union-Tribune for excellence in journalism.”

According to Ryan, MediaNews Group is offering buyouts to employees

Last month, the Los Angeles Times announced it was laying off 74 employees, or 13% of newsroom staff, as part of a “reorganization” due to the current economic climate. This week, The Sporting Times reported the “Los Angeles Times sports section will no longer have box scores, standings, game stories, TV listings or a daily sports calendar” to “accommodate new 3 p.m. deadlines following the sale of their printing press.”

MediaNews Group’s purchase of the Union-Tribune comes two months after Texas-based Nexstar Media Group, owner of Fox5 in San Diego, acquired independent San Diego news station KUSI-TV for $35 million from McKinnon Broadcasting.

VINCENT

THE SAN DIEGO Union-Tribune has been sold to a subsidiary of Alden Global Capital, a New York-based hedge fund with a reputation for slashing newsroom workforces across the country. Photo by Jordan P. Ingram

TERI Common Grounds

Cafe in San Marcos recently celebrated Christmas in July with Seanta Clause, a local Santa influencer who gives back to families in need during the holidays. Above, Seanta Clause (Sean Garcia) and Stoney the Elf (Gary Rogers) hang out during the breakfast fundraiser on July 15. Right, Seanta Clause meets a minihorse during the event held to benefit the missions of both TERI and Seanta Clause. TERI Campus of Life is a wellness center for people with developmental disabilities.

Photos by Samantha Nelson

San Diego County Fair reports nearly 1 million visitors

By Laura Place

DEL MAR

— The 2023 San Diego County Fair at the Del Mar Fairgrounds saw a rise in attendees from the previous year, fair officials said, indicating continued post-pandemic growth.

Over its 22-day run, the fairgrounds saw 997,720 visitors “Get Out There!” at the fair, marking a nearly 200,000-person increase from 2022.

This is still well below the pre-pandemic attendance levels of around 1.5 million, but fair officials said they were more focused on providing a great experience for each fairgoer this year.

“Our numbers this year are fantastic, and that is important to us, but this Fair is and should be about more than just attendance figures and financial metrics,” said Fairgrounds CEO Carlene

OVER ITS 22-day run, the San Diego County Fair welcomed 997,720 visitors to the Del Mar Fairgrounds, an increase of nearly 200,000 from 2022.

Moore. “We are truly in the business of creating lasting memories and strengthening our diverse community. This Fair is about education, tradition, economic oppor-

increased food and entertainment options, they also prioritized various strategies to limit overcrowding and long lines, facilitate improved traffic and parking, and reduce negative impacts on the surrounding neighborhood.

Along with improving the Midway layout and offering more shaded seating, this included going cashless for admission and parking, promoting offsite parking and alternative transportation like the NCTD Fair Tripper, and not scheduling the most popular concerts on the historically busiest days, officials said.

cert Series drew 58,000 attendees between 13 different shows. The show by Los Tigres del Norte drew the largest crowd, with over 7,500 people, followed by performances of hip-hop artist Nelly and famed comedian and actor Kevin Hart.

When it came to the carnival, The Joker 360 was the most popular new ride with over 36,000 riders, and upward of 80,000 people each enjoyed rides on the Crazy Mouse, Fast Trax Slide and Sky Ride.

a whopping 160,000 chocolate chip cookies throughout the fair.

As always, livestock played a large role at the fair.

Over 350 San Diego County youth ages 9 to 18 participated in the popular Junior Livestock Auction, with nearly 500 animals entered into the market competition.

another in September 2022 while working as a private instructor in Rancho Santa Fe.

The third victim was also a student of Piazza’s during private lessons around the summer of 2022, Jackson confirmed.

While the San Diego County District Attorney’s office is preparing for trial, they continue negotiating with the defense.

“In any case, you always have a dual-track purpose;

making sure you’re prepared to do a trial, and at the same time, you still have negotiations. Whenever new things come up or different circumstances come up, it could change negotiations. They could plead guilty at any time,” Jackson said.

Callan lawsuit

The parent of the first victim sued Callan Swim School separately last fall, alleging that the school was negligent in hiring and continuing to employ Piazza. While a trial was set for early next year, court docu-

tunity, innovation, partnerships, and, of course, family friendly fun. In these ways, we believe this year’s Fair was a smashing success.”

Officials said while they

ments confirm that the case has been settled.

A notice of conditional settlement was first filed in late April, and subsequent court filings from late May confirm that Callan Swim School paid out an out-ofpocket settlement totaling $40,000. The school has denied all claims in the suit.

A declaration filed by Booth Law attorney Hannah Nachef, who represented the victim, said the school’s insurance carrier denied any coverage, leaving the family-owned business to pay for any settle-

“We are excited to take what we learned this year and to reinvest our revenues so we can build an even better San Diego County Fair in 2024,” Moore said.

The Grandstand Con-

ment. The school’s policy featured an exclusion refusing coverage related to sexual misconduct, including negligent hiring, retention or supervision of employees who committed sexual misconduct, per the declaration. The insurance company also declined even to defend the case.

Nachef said in the declaration that they negotiated with the school for six weeks before they agreed on the $40,000 figure. Settling early, she said, assured the victim received the highest

Among the 100-plus vendors offering delicious concessions, Apollo’s Greek sold over 10,000 chicken gyro pitas, and Biggy’s sold over 1,100 of their Hot Cheeto Chicken Sandwich, the food item named Best of Show title in the Fair-tastic Foods Competition.

Mom’s Bakeshoppe sold

possible recovery without excessive litigation costs.

“Child sexual abuse cases are generally difficult to litigate, given the sensitivity of the subject matter.

In this particular case, the most challenging issue was the fact that defendant’s insurance carrier completely denied coverage. We were able to overcome this issue by working with defense to come to an early resolution in which the defendant, a small business, paid out of pocket,” Nachef’s declaration stated.

Of the $40,000, the

The auction raised over $482,000 — an increase of $59,000 from last year — by selling 228 animals. “Chicken Charlie” Boghosian paid nearly $28,000 for the Beef Grand Champion steer from exhibitor and Fallbrook High School FFA Student Clayton Critz, whose twin brother Landon Critz saw his steer win the reserve grand champion title.

Over 1,000 seasonal workers were hired to make this year’s fair run smoothly.

victim’s family will be paid nearly $25,000 and $15,000 will go toward attorney’s fees, settlement documents state. Attorneys representing Callan Swim School did not respond to requests for comment regarding settlement details over the past two months.

The child, referred to as M.G. in the lawsuit, attended nearly a dozen individual and therapy sessions until early 2022 due to fear and anxiety from the abuse. However, settlement documents state the boy has since made a full recovery.

Courtesy photo/SD County Fair

Child, 3, fatally shoots sibling, 1, in Fallbrook

By City News Service

REGION — A 1-yearold girl was accidentally shot and killed by her 3-year-old sibling in Fallbrook on July 17.

According to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, deputies responded to the 1100 block of South Stagecoach Lane near Hidden Walk Lane at around 7:30 a.m. about a report regarding an accidental shooting.

A preliminary investigation led deputies to discover that a 3-year-old got hold of an unsecured handgun and accidentally shot their 1-year-old sister in the head.

According to the sheriff’s department, paramedics arrived at the location to transport the 1-year-old to Palomar Hospital.

The girl was pronounced dead at around 8:30 a.m. despite life-saving efforts.

The sheriff’s department and medical examiner’s office are investigating to determine the cause and manner of death.

Tips sought in armed carjacking near Esco REGION — Authorities are reaching out to the public for help in identifying a pair of thieves who used a roadside-emergency ruse to get a motorist to pull over on a rural roadway north of Escondido to rob him and steal his car.

The victim was driving near the intersection of Old Highway 395 and Circle R Way in the unincorporated Hidden Meadows community shortly before 9:30 p.m June 12, when he saw a woman with a green-andpurple Kent-brand bicycle who appeared to be in distress alongside the road, the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department reported.

When the motorist pulled over to see if he could help, a black Honda hatch-

Who’s NEWS?

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

COLLEGE GRADS

The following students graduated from their respective colleges or universities: Bryn Sovacool of San Marcos from Missouri State University; Finnian Sullivan of Solana Beach from the University of Vermont; and Isaac Nguyen of Oceanside from Wartburg College in Iowa.

DEAN’S LIST

The following students made the spring dean’s list at their respective colleges or universities: Samantha Kissner of San Marcos at Hollins University in Virginia; Sally Lynne of San Marcos at the University of Dallas; India Torres of Del Mar at Augustana College in Illinois; and Kayley Garcia of Vista

back pulled up behind him, according to the regional law enforcement agency.

A man got out of the Honda, approached the victim, pulled out a gun on him and told him to give him his wallet and money. Telling the thief he did not have any cash, the victim told him he could take his car.

The gunman then got into the victim’s vehicle and drove away, and the woman drove off in the Honda her accomplice had been driving, according to investigators. The victim’s car was found abandoned the following day.

The male thief was described as a heavyset, roughly 5-foot-5-inch Latino in his 30s or 40s with a full beard, curly hair and tattoos above his eyelids.

His partner in the carjacking was a light-skinned woman in her 30s or 40s, sheriff’s officials said.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call San Diego County Crime Stoppers at 888-5808477 or contact the agency online at sdcrimestoppers. org.

Tipsters may remain anonymous and could be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

Burglary spree leads to chase; 4 teens arrested ESCONDIDO — An 18-year-old man and three teenage boys suspected of burglarizing 10 businesses in Escondido early July 13 were taken into custody following a brief predawn road chase that ended when the car they were in crashed near the intersection of Interstate 15 and state Route 78.

The events that led to the pursuit began about 3:15 a.m., when a security guard working in the 600 block of North Broadway in Escondido made an emergency call

at Chadron State College in Nebraska.

HONOR ROLL

The following students made the spring honor roll at their respective university or college: Clarisa Duvvuri of San Marcos at the University of Dallas and Lindsey Page of San Marcos at Spokane Community College.

HONOR SOCIETY

The following students were inducted into the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines: Gabrielle Hillier of San Marcos at Boise State University; Gaurav Sachdev of San Marcos and Artem Kazmerchuk of Carlsbad at the University of Illinois; and Lauren Suchodolski of Carlsbad at the University of Tennessee.

CIVIL RIGHTS

Kendall Bristol, 17, a junior at The Grauer School in Encinitas, recently interviewed Civil Rights icons

to relay information provided by a transient who saw four youths loading what he believed was an ATM into a maroon Cadillac sedan, according to police.

The guard then discovered that a doughnut shop in the area had a broken front window and possibly had been burglarized.

When patrol personnel found the vehicle a short time later on Park Avenue near Broadway, they saw the suspects placing a large safe in the front seat, the Escondido Police Department reported.

Seeing the officers approach, the youths jumped into the car. After the driver backed into a patrol vehicle, the Cadillac sped away, police said.

Following a roughly five-minute high-speed chase, the driver of the Cadillac lost control while trying to make a right turn from southbound Centre City Parkway onto westbound Washington Avenue, sending the car crashing into

Courtland Cox and Heather Booth for a school project.

REAL ESTATE

The Real Estate Office of Rancho Santa Fe is upgrading to two new exclusive locations in Rancho Santa Fe: the already open location at 6006 El Tordo, Suite #210, and the soon to open location at 5535 Cancha De Golf, Suite #102.

FAMILY REUNION

More than 300 Gonzalez family members celebrated the family’s arrival to the historic La Colonia de Eden Gardens in Solana Beach over 100 years ago with their first-ever family reunion at La Colonia Community Park on July 8.

SCHOLARSHIPS

The San Diego Foundation awarded a record-breaking $4 million in scholarships to more than 1,000 local college students, many of whom are the first in their families to attend college and from low-middle income communities histor-

a palm tree in a parking lot, according to an EPD statement.

The occupants then scrambled out of the vehicle and made a failed attempt to escape on foot, police said. Officers took one into custody just outside the car and caught the other three nearby.

The suspects, all residents of Hemet, were treated at hospitals for injuries they apparently suffered in the car crash.

In addition to the safe, officers found cash, jewelry, stolen store merchandise and a loaded gun inside the damaged Cadillac, according to the statement.

Investigators believe the four teens burglarized the following central and western Escondido businesses overnight: Blue Mug Coffee and Tea, Del’s Barber Shop, Donut Star, George Burgers, Glamour Brows, La Michoacana Plus, Lourdes Mexican Food, Sally’s Beauty, 10 Perfect Nails and Top Trendy Nails and Spa.

ically under-represented in higher education.

SCHOOL VACCINES

Vista Community Clinic is offering and promoting routine childhood vaccines throughout the back-toschool season. The clinic cautions that vaccinating children before the start of the school year helps reduce the risk of outbreaks and helps maintain a healthy learning environment.

COFFEE DEAL

NuZee, Inc., a Vista-based coffee co-packing and technology company, entered into a five-year global licensing agreement with Stone Brewing to co-manufacture and distribute Stone Brewing specialty coffee products nationwide.

GOOD WATER Vista Irrigation District published its annual consumer confidence report that shows how in 2022, as in past years, the district’s tap water met all federal and state safe drinking water standards.

Perhaps you’ve heard the 2024 presidential campaign has started. Today, there are 17 candidates, and more may still appear.

A debatable campaign tactic ask mr. marketing

With a dozen wannabes already in place, the Republican Party has announced a threshold to qualify for the Aug. 23 primary debate.

Only candidates with 40,000-plus individual campaign donors (and 200-plus unique donors in 20 states or territories) will appear on stage.

Enter North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum. With 779,000 constituents (the fourth least populous state), Burgum probably can’t outgun names like Trump and DeSantis. Hoping to improve his chances, he’s using an interesting marketing ploy.

A long-shot contender at the bottom of recent polls, he’s offering $20 gift cards to the first 50,000 people who donate $1 to his campaign. One lucky contributor will win a Yeti Tundra 45 cooler (value $300).

This maneuver has generated healthy amounts of free press in the New York Times and elsewhere, though their using words like desperation probably haven’t helped him.

Burgum’s campaign admits these promotional efforts are meant to help “secure a spot on the debate stage while avoiding paying more advertising fees to social media platforms who have owners that are hostile to conservatives.”

Campaign finance lawyers are questioning the legality of Mr. Burgum’s strategy.

Other candidates (Chris Christie, Perry Johnson) are using equally

rob weinberg

novel approaches to gain donors, with varying degrees of success.

Retailers use loss leaders to get customers in the door, hoping they’ll buy other, more profitable items too. In Mr. Burgum’s case, he’d better have a strategy for converting sales prospects into longterm customers if he’s looking for lasting success.

The problem is that with his short runway and heavy competition, Mr. Burgum may not be able to successfully turn these 50,000 prospects into voters.

Arguably, even if he gets onto that stage, he still must outshine some better known (and presumably louder) competitors.

The show is two hours long, and after subtracting time for questions, drama and (ostensibly) 11 other candidates wanting to speak, he’ll be fortunate to get six minutes of airtime. Advertising doyen David Ogilvy observed, “It’s not creative unless it sells,” so this move is arguably worth it if it helps Mr. Burgum achieve his shortterm objective.

It’s certainly an interesting angle, and he wouldn’t be the first president who bought his way into office.

With that said, I wish you a week of profitable marketing.

Vote for better marketing at askmrmarketing. com.

AN ARTIST’S rendering of an armed carjacker who along with a woman used a roadside emergency ruse to rob a man and steal his car near Escondido. Courtesy image/Crime Stoppers

Pop-up burger joint Copper Kings opening San Marcos location

By Laura Place

SAN MARCOS — The smash burger aficionados behind pop-up eatery Copper Kings Burgers have been building a presence across North County for the past three years, one delicious bite at a time.

Now, founders Jonathan Petr and Dermot Owens are getting ready to move into their first brickand-mortar location in San Marcos, with the aim to open in early October.

The journey to this point has been full of unexpected weaves and turns, as the business duo originally started in early 2020 with the goal of opening a whiskey bar that also served food. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, they pivoted to a burger operation that could operate outdoors.

“We decided to kind of reinvent ourselves. We said,

let’s take the burger, let’s build relevancy and traction in North County so that when the time is right, we’re ready to go, we already have that customer base,” Petr said.

The mobile kitchen currently transports its grill, fryer, prep line and other

equipment to different locations where they set up and cook under a tent with their trademark slogan — “life’s too short for crappy burgers.”

From Thursdays through Sundays, they can be found at breweries and taprooms including Pure

Project in Vista, the Lost Abbey in San Marcos, South O in Oceanside and The Shanty in Cardiff, putting food directly into the hands of the hungry masses.

“We unpack all our equipment, and we’re on full display,” Petr said.

This model has been

well received in North County, with customers able to enjoy a beer along with one of six burger options all featuring homemade sauces, smash patties and Japanese milk buns. Spice lovers can get the Spicy Burger with pickled chile peppers, while vegetarians can enjoy the fried green tomatoes on the Treehugger (or add bacon, and make it a Confused Treehugger.)

Folks can also enjoy Copper Kings via their catering service for events and parties.

The future permanent home of Copper Kings is along West San Marcos Boulevard in the former location of Up In Smoke BBQ, which announced its closure last month due to the owner’s health issues.

With the proper kitchen space, Owens said they plan to add more items to the menu as well as some

libations.

“We’re gonna be expanding our menu since it’s very limited what we can do here. We’re excited to expand the menu, get some beer on tap,” said Owens.

The name Copper Kings references the moniker held by the famed Irish-born copper miners in Montana in the late 19th century. It’s a nod to Owens’ Irish heritage, having originally come from Belfast, Northern Ireland, and later living in Montana himself. While the business will scale down its pop-up once they open in San Marcos, Petr said they will continue bringing the mobile kitchen to Cardiff and possibly some other locations once a week. They will also continue offering their catering services.

Visit copperkingsburgers.com for their full schedule or to order online.

Local Roots’ Boochyard, Black Plague advance in patio bracket

cheers!

north county ryan woldt

As a reminder, breweries are scored on a 100-point scale with a max of 20 points per category. See the scoring details in our North County Brewery Patio-off launch column.

Reminder: this competition is focused solely on the patio, not the beer!

THE COMPETITORS: Local Roots’ The Boochyard Taproom in Vista is stepping in as an unseeded outsider to the patio-off, replacing Battlemage Brewing, whose patio turned out to be a myth.

On paper, Local Roots is the underdog taking on Burgeon Brewery’s Oasis

location in Escondido, an established locals hot spot.

Local Roots’ The Boochyard Taproom

For starters, wow.

You’ll roll past the massive skateboard at the indoor skatepark and into a quiet business park. The patio at Local Roots is equally huge in scale, and it lays out before you like some royal estate as you come down the hill. This is one of the most prominent patios I’ve ever seen. There is a grassy patch in the sun for games like cornhole or having a picnic. Adirondack chairs dot the edges for casual viewing. Under a shade sail, oversized wooden tables accommodate groups, and tucked into the front corner of the grassy knoll is a lovely lounge area centered by a fire pit. That’s just the first level.

Move up two steps onto the concrete patio, and you’ll find tall rounds under umbrellas, couches

JOIN THE VISTA SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT SENIOR VOLUNTEER

The Senior Volunteer Patrol of the Vista Sheriff’s Station performs home vacation security checks, assists with traffic control, enforces disabled parking regulations, patrols neighborhoods, schools, parks and shopping centers and visits homebound seniors who live alone for the community of Vista & portions of the county’s unincorporated areas. Volunteers must be at least age 50, be in good health, pass a background check, have auto insurance, a valid California driver’s license, and be a US citizen. Training includes a mandatory two-week academy plus training patrols. The minimum commitment is 6 hours per week & attendance at a monthly meeting. erested parties should contact Administrator Jim Baynes to arrange an information meeting.

(760) 940-4434 Jim Baynes

along the wall, and plenty of open space to accommodate events under the overhead bulbs crisscrossing the area. Three oversized doors are rolled up, bringing the outside in or vice versa.

I don’t drink a lot of kombuchas, but the bartender suggests tasters until I find what I want. I try a Purple Haze. The music is a little fist-pump-y for the early afternoon, but it fits the vibe: Instagram meets Rugged Brewer meets SoCal. It isn’t hard to imagine a crowd of kombucha enthusiasts jamming out to a live band on the porch.

Even if I didn’t want to test the kombucha waters, several guest beers and wines were on the board. They have a full menu of wood-fired Brooklyn-style pizzas if I feel peckish. I imagine laughing with my wife when a string of cheese drips down on her chin. There is a good chance a millennial rom-com will be filmed here someday.

I ask someone what they think of the space, and they have the perfect reply.

“It’s nice when it is empty like this because I hate

people, but I think even if it were packed, there is enough space where it wouldn’t feel cramped.” I agree and put my feet up by the campfire.

Accommodation: 18

Atmosphere: 17

Offerings: 19

Service: 19

Wildcard: 19

Total: 92

Takeaway: A huge thank you to reader Eric for recommending Local Roots. This is an excellent patio where you can eat, drink, and hang with the dog…or people if that is your kind of jam. Check out more photos of the space on @localrootskombucha on Instagram.

Burgeon Beer Co. at The Oasis

Editor’s note: Local Author and host of the long-running Beer Night in San Diego podcast, Cody Thompson, stepped in to help review some of the breweries near his HQ in Escondido.

Burgeon did the nearly unthinkable — opening

a new location amidst the Covid pandemic. The Oasis is a 100 percent outdoor beer-drinking experience that offers an open-air, well-spaced option for beer drinkers hoping to socially distance while sipping killer beers* outside their bubble or backyard.

With businesses wide open, this location has genuinely lived up to its name. It’s an Oasis beckoning beer fans from all over the county to saddle up to one of its many permanent tables underneath gorgeous trees or branded umbrellas offering the perfect shade levels during the hotter days in the Valley. You’re never more than a few feet away from the taps to fill up on a second or third beer.

The staff at the Oasis have created a positive culture and atmosphere. Welcoming, friendly faces greet you as you enter the space and before you finish your first Treevana. You’ll feel like you belong to the family. On busier days, the Oasis expands its patio space, taking up real estate with picnic tables so you can almost always find a place to sit back and relax.

Where we’ve seen many locations throughout San Diego either team up with a food vendor or offer food onsite, Burgeon the Oasis offers on-site food trucks and vendors Thursday through Sunday.

Accommodation: 16

Atmosphere: 20

Offerings: 18

Service: 18

Wildcard: 18

Total: 90

Takeaway: This location truly lives up to its name; it’s an Oasis calling to weary locals in search of friendly service and killer beers.

ROUND 1 WINNER: Local Roots The Boochyard

Taproom! They proved the (non-existent) haters wrong by going from unranked to a first-round upset.

UNRELATED BUT

RELATED: Burgeon Beer is opening in Vista’s Paseo Artist Village at 501 South Santa Fe Ave. The new taproom is the brewery’s fifth and is slated to open by the end of the year.

***

THE COMPETITORS: North County newcomers, Duck Foot Brewing’s new secret (not so secret) Leucadia spot tries to avoid Escondido’s Black Plague in a patio showdown between exceptional tasting rooms.

Duck Foot Tasting Room

At first glance, the patio looks haphazard and thrown together, which may not be untrue. The space is a recycled tasting room that started as St. Archer Brewing, became Kings & Convicts (thru acquisition), and is now part of the Duck Foot brand. The interior, minus some new art, is nearly exactly the same as it always has been.

Outside there are a bunch of wooden barrels paired with tall chairs protected by orange roadside barriers from the cars and cyclists rolling by. There are low tables and chairs pushed up against the tasting room’s outside wall. A bartop with stools both inside and out connects the two spaces.

I rode my bike down from Carlsbad to meet a friend and was thrilled to find some protected bike parking. I ordered the first round at the bar. The service was great. Over the course of a few hours, I was really impressed by the Duck Foot team.

As a former restaurant and bar manager, I appre-

LOCAL ROOTS’ The Boochyard taproom in Vista features a massive outdoor patio space. Courtesy photo/Kyle Cannon

JONATHAN PETR and the Copper Kings crew can be seen preparing delicious burgers at breweries and taprooms around North County. Photo courtesy Copper Kings

It’s time for the piddling Padres to punt on ’23

The Padres are in the hot corner and this has nothing to do with third baseman Manny Machado. The trading deadline is closing fast and it equals the rate of speed of the Padres’ free fall.

No matter which way the flailing and failing Padres turn, they are backed into a corner.

When this season’s curtain was raised, the beginning of August was to be a signal to ramp up for the final two months. A time to fill out the roster, to bring in some reinforcements and the opportunity to mold a dynamite regular-season squad into one that could cause damage come October and bring the Padres their first World Series title.

Unfortunately the buzz generated from the unprecedented turnout at FanFest has morphed into a bona fide train wreck for the Padres and their backers. A season that was to be so special is the most disappointing in franchise history and when peeling through the Padres’ pathetic lore, that’s saying some -

jay paris

thing.

But nothing comes close and those close to the team know it. This Petri dish experiment of asking four hitters to carry an offense, a thin rotation that doesn’t go deep into games to preserve an overworked bullpen and a pencil-thin bench was a fantasy.

So now what?

Sports, all sports, is about making adjustments and for the Padres to stand pat while imagining things will somehow be different is the stuff of unicorns, rose-colored glasses and a portly guy shimmering down a chimney.

One can’t keep their faith and their sanity at the same time with this collection of players. The Padres don’t pass the test, and that includes the one by eyes, won-loss record and

includes the daunting task of passing the numerous teams ahead of them.

Should the Padres sell off and start fresh? No way, because there isn’t a path for them to do it and despite their pratfalls, they remain in a win-now mode.

Machado, Fernando Tatis Jr., Xander Bogaerts and Juan Soto aren’t going anywhere; Soto, at least, until after 2024. Owner Peter Seidler didn’t allow Encinitas’ AJ Preller, the director of baseball operations, to demolish the farm system just to kick Soto to the curb prematurely.

PItchers Yu Darvish and Joe Musgrove are secured by long-term deals so they stay put too.

But lefty Blake Snell and closer Josh Hader are attractive, although contemplating a stellar haul is likely a pipe dream. But something is better than nothing.

Would a contender pay a steep price for those two proven commodities? Yes, to a degree. But with them being two-month rentals before reaching free agency, the return will be mut-

ed.

Swing man Seth Lugo should skeddadle too, but again the pieces coming to San Diego won’t shake the Padres from their funk.

First baseman Jake Cronenworth?

No takers with his bloated contract and bogged-down statistics.

Second baseman HaSeong Kim? He’s among the few Padres playing with any fire and the customers have noticed.

Think that’s a stretch? Listen to the player introductions before Petco Park games and Kim regularly gets the biggest cheer.

The 2023 Padres certainly don’t deserve a toast. But they can’t let a dismal ’23 derail what could be a potential run in 2024 by not facing the fact that this year is kaput.

Smart baseball men don’t clutch hope when there is none. Then again, smart baseball executives don’t ignore glaring holes in the offseason (center field, catching, pitching, bench depth) to acquire a shortstop (Bogaerts) when the team already had three

(Kim, Tatis and Cronenworth).

The Padres haven’t shown they are even an average team over four months and now some anticipate it to play 20 games over .500 in the final two months, which is what is required to sniff the playoff race? A team that has zero winning streaks over three games and has yet to prevail in an extra-inning game?

The Padres need to set their pride, and exaggerated expectations, aside and get real. Bruised egos eventually heal and for the Padres to get healthy, they need to aim for ’24. Even if that means waving a white flag on ’23.

Anything else is a form of malpractice to a fan base that has been phenomenal. They continue to fill Petco despite the Padres’ numerous and clear shortcomings.

Everyone linked to, and with, the Padres despises the Dodgers and we get it. But the haters should embrace a slogan “Dem Bums” made famous decades ago, when Seidler’s grandfather, Walter O’Malley, owned the

club.

That rallying cry in Flatbush should be repeated in East Village: “Wait till next year!”

This year can’t end soon enough and prolonging its legacy isn’t the answer. That’s why the Padres should be shedding parts instead of collecting them, or sitting on their hands, leading to the trade deadline.

Someday, maybe, the Padres will have that championship parade. First, they must build a championship roster.

It needs to be one that does more than win the offseason headlines and peddle fool’s gold before the competition starts.

The Padres haven’t cornered the market on mediocre baseball. Instead, they need to decipher how to wiggle from the one they’re in, backed in with little recourse thanks to long-term deals and personnel producing dreadful short-term results.

Contact Jay Paris at jparis8@aol.com and follow him @jparis_sports

San Marcos Chamber

San Marcos Smile Dental, True To Their Name

Since 2011 Dr.’s Quang Le and Vinh Le have called San Marcos home to San Marcos Smile Dental. They have been putting smiles on their patients in Vista since 2006. Long time members of the San Marcos Chamber, they shared some insights on their dental practice.

Palomar College trio selected in MLB draft

By Staff REGION — A trio of players with San Marcos and Palomar College ties heard their names called as Major League Baseball held its annual draft last week as part of the All-Star Game festivities in Seattle.

Palomar College

left-handed pitcher Kyle Carr, a 2020 graduate of San Marcos High School, was selected in the third round, 97th overall, by the New York Yankees.

Palomar teammate Quincy Scott, an outfielder who graduated in 2021 from Mission Hills High School, went in the 9th round, 261st overall, to the Texas Rangers.

The 6-1 Carr and 6-5 Scott earned American Baseball Coaches Association pitcher and player of the year honors, respectively, for the Comets this past season.

Staff ace Carr (12-1, 3.15 ERA) was the first junior college player selected in this year’s draft. Scott hit .414 in two seasons as a starter at Palomar.

Palomar College alum Jacob Widener, a 2019 San Marcos High graduate, was selected in the 9th round, 259th overall, by the Kansas City Royals.

The 6-7 left-hander, who pitched for the Comets in 2020 before COVID-19 halted the season, helped lead Oral Roberts University to the College World Series this past season.

Palomar College said this is the first time “in recent memory” the Comets had three players taken in the first 10 rounds.

San Diego State catcher Cole Carrigg was the first player with San Diego ties drafted, going in the second round, 65th overall, to the Colorado Rockies.

What services and/or specialty products do you provide?

General and cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics (braces), oral surgery (wisdom teeth removal), dental implants, and partials / dentures

What sets you apart from others in your industry?

As dentists we focus on patient education and treating our patients with care and commitment, the same care and commitment we would desire for ourselves. We treat every patient as if they were our own family and keep their well being in mind first.

What question are you asked most frequently by

patients?

Can I get my treatments started today? We are always taking care of patients’ needs the same day. Our philosophy is to get patients out of pain and control infection as soon as possible and as safe as possible.

What is your favorite business success story?

A 64 yr old female miss-

ing all of her front teeth for 30 years. She had been self conscious all her life about her smile and unable to bite anything. She said she spent all her time taking care of her family and neglected her oral health. After reviewing her health and her concerns, we created a perfect plan including dental implants and bridges to address her cosmetic issues and restoring

her chewing function back to 100%. Her beautiful smile with teary eyes of happiness on the final delivery appointment is a quick reminder why I picked dentistry as a career and have loved every minute of it for the last 20 years.

What motivated you to join The San Marcos Chamber?

Building relationships with other businesses, non-profit organizations, connecting with our community and being able to provide dental health resources and services.

What’s your best piece of business advice?

Do what you love and do the best you can to take care of your clients. Loyalty has to be earned and it works both ways.

3643 Grand Ave Suite A, San Marcos Ca 92078 www.SanMarcosSmile.com

Instagram handle: @sanmarcossmiledental

Facebook page: @SanMarcosSmileDental

DR. VINH LE. Courtesy photo DR. QUANG LE. Courtesy photo

KYLE CARR, shown at George Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Florida, signed with the Yankees on July 18. The former Palomar College pitcher was the team’s third-round draft pick last week. Courtesy photo

Locals push to save iconic venue

By Steve Puterski

CARLSBAD — A small group of residents is working to protect the nearly century-old Carlsbad Theatre from possible redevelopment into a retail space.

Ken Kebow and others have started communications with Encinitas-based RAF Pacifica Group, or RPG, urging the developer to refrain from transforming the theater on State Street into a potential retail space.

Instead, Kebow proposes a partnership with New Village Arts, which unveiled a more than $2 million renovation to its building earlier this year, to create an “art hub” in Carlsbad Village.

The theater was founded in 1927, with several owners over the decades,

including RPG, which purchased the property several years ago, according to theater records.

According to reports, Adam Robinson, president of RPG, is open to the idea of preserving the space as a theater or art center.

“We don’t need another restaurant or coffee shop in the Village,” Kebow said. “I used to come here as a kid to watch matinees. We would like to turn it into an art hub with New Village Arts.”

The developer’s conceptual renderings show a sleek modern design with the potential for retail space on the ground floor with outdoor seating or dining.

The owners will “create a new storefront and façade with updates to the building but keeping the historic architecture,” according to the

developers plans.

The property’s first two stories boast more than 8,000 square feet of space, creating the possibility of office or residential space on the second floor. Plans for new uses are mostly contained on the first floor.

Messages were left with two representatives for the property, along with RPG, but they were not returned by deadline.

But Kebow believes there is an opportunity to preserve the theater by establishing a nonprofit arm, similar to Dea Hurston New Village Arts Center, to solicit donations and grow the venue with a variety of offerings, such as classic movie nights, live theater, lectures and community events.

Several years ago, the theater underwent renova-

tions for its 328-seat venue, which included a new cinema screen, stage, carpet, code compliance, increased electrical capacity and others.

“There is a nostalgia,” Kebow said. “Our group is working to lease the space to screen classic movies, present live events and host community functions.”

RPG has built numerous local projects, including Lift Carlsbad, an outdoor plaza home to Eureka!, Del Lusso Pizza, Krave Asian Fusion and Honma House in Bressi Ranch.

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CARLSBAD THEATRE, founded in 1927, underwent renovations several years ago. Now, a developer is considering plans for possible redevelopment of the iconic Carlsbad Village theater, including transforming the building into retail space.

Photo by Steve Puterski

1Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate as of June 30, 2023. The dividend rate and APY may change at any time. The minimum deposit for this 15-month certificate or IRA certificate is $500. The APY is based on an assumption that principal and dividends will remain in the account until maturity. Any fee, withdrawal, or transfer reduces earnings and there may be penalties for early withdrawal. Call 1-877-GOLDEN 1 (1-877-465-3361) for current rates.

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OPENING DAY - FRIDAY, JULY 21

‘Little Shop’ features teen, adult casts

By Laura Place

SAN MARCOS —

North County musical education and theater company

Luminary Arts is wrapping up its production of “Little Shop of Horrors” this weekend, with performances featuring two casts — one comprised of adults, and another of teenagers.

The show’s two-weekend run concludes July 2123 at Mission Hills High School’s Redwood Hall, with both casts performing two shows this weekend.

Actors said audience members can expect different experiences of the horror comedy musical, which follows a flower shop assistant who discovers a sentient plant with a taste for human

flesh and blood.

Josh Click, who plays the role of Seymour in the adult cast, said he was curious how the double-cast process would go in the beginning, but that he has greatly enjoyed working alongside his teen counterpart, Nicholas Damian.

“I’m blown away by what he brings to the table. We watch each other rehearse very carefully and often share ideas and insights. But at the same time, we allow each other our own takes on Seymour,” Click said. “I like that a lot. You won’t be seeing the same show twice between the casts!”

Damian, a rising sophomore at San Marcos High School, said working along-

side the professional adult actors has been a great experience. He came back to Luminary Arts after performing in their production of “13” last year, and loves the environment it provides.

“Josh is such an amazing actor, and I love seeing all the acting choices he makes,” Damian, 14, said. “I can see these people who have way more years of experience than me, and I can watch them and take notes.”

Hannah Roskelly, who plays Audrey in the adult cast, said the two-cast model has made the process especially enjoyable.

“This has been very, very fun. It’s been really cool

SATURDAY, JULY 22

OPENING DAY SOLD OUT

Sample a wide variety of delicious tastings from over 50 brews, ciders and seltzers plus music and more. Ages 21 & up only.*

Get FREE admission, program and seat, plus 40% off 16 oz. Coors Lights and Brandt Beef hot dogs at concession stands with FREE Diamond Club membership.

Half off Del Mar Signature Drinks every Friday beginning July 28.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 5

An epic celebration of New Orleans culture with Cajun cuisine, themed drinks, music, mini parade and more. Ages 21 & up only.*

SATURDAY, AUGUST 12

Build your own BBQ spread from top restaurant chefs and pitmasters, along with sides, desserts, beverages, music and trackside viewing.*

SATURDAY, AUGUST 19

Enjoy over 100 wines and champagnes, live races, DJ, local favorite food trucks, and more. Ages 21 & up only.*

SATURDAY, AUGUST 26

Specialty tequilas, margaritas and cervezas paired up with tasty tacos from the best taco shops in town. Ages 21 & up only.*

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

$1,000,000 FanDuel Racing Pacific Classic

Del Mar’s richest and most prestigious race. The day features five graded stakes races and a Flightline cap giveaway to the first 10,000 paid admissions.

THE TEEN CAST includes Nicholas Damian (Seymour) and Athena Woessner (Audrey) in Luminary Arts’ production of “Little Shop of Horrors.” Courtesy photo/Luminary Arts

Famed medium Van Praagh holding North County event

By Jordan P. Ingram ENCINITAS

— After four decades in the public eye as a clairvoyant lifting the veil between the earthly and spiritual realms, internationally known psychic medium and Encinitas resident James Van Praagh has a philosophy for the skeptics of his work.

“What people think of me is none of my business,” Van Praagh told The Coast News.

Van Praagh, 64, has spent most of his career writing New York Times best-selling books, inspiring and creating television shows and movies, and sharing his extrasensory observations with Oprah, Larry King and Dr. Phil McGraw. In 2002, Van Praagh’s book “Talking to Heaven” inspired the two-part CBS miniseries “Living With The Dead,” starring Ted Danson.

More recently, the New York-born spiritualist has launched his School of Mystical Arts, offering online courses on everything from healing and meditation to developing and enhancing spiritual intuition and earning mediumship certification.

Today, Van Praagh enjoys the energy of Encinitas, a town he has called home for the past nine years. Later this month, the intuitive channeler will hold an event on July 28 at the Seaside Center for Spiritual Living in Cardiff.

“I found out how spiri-

tual Encinitas was, beyond the (Self-Realization Fellowship Encinitas Temple),” Van Praagh said. “There is a bedrock in this area of quartz crystal. That’s why we chose Encinitas — it’s an energy space.”

Van Praagh said his journey as a spiritual medium started at a young age while living with his Irish Catholic mother and three siblings in Queens, New York, often witnessing bright-colored spirits hanging out in the room with him. After informing his mother of his visions, Van Praagh’s mother told him, “They will always help you, never harm you.”

As a child, Van Praagh said he was a target for bullies, but his mistreatment never turned him jaded or angry. Rather, the supernatural seer embraced concepts of universal love, spiritual unity and peace.

“Often, I can’t relate to this world, the way we treat one another is just wrong,”

Van Praagh said. “Treat others as you want to be treated. Love is a natural vibration, the soul’s energy. There is no fear in the spiritual world — that’s a limited human emotion. But we get caught up in human ego, and we aren’t happy because we are trying to live in this social media landscape.”

Growing up, Van Praagh went to church with his mom but never felt like he knew why he was there. While he enjoyed the pag-

eantry of a Catholic mass, he said never quite understood it. Later, Van Praagh said he attended a seminary prep school to be a priest, not because he felt a higher calling, but rather to please his mother.

“Most kids come into this life, they are open and then they get programmed,” Van Praagh said. “And they start to think, ‘I’ll receive more love if I do what (my

parents) want.’ They try to please people. By middle age, they don’t feel fulfilled in life — ‘Oh I’ve been living someone else’s life instead of my own.’”

After moving to the West Coast and graduating from San Francisco State with a broadcasting degree, Van Praagh moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career as a sitcom writer, eventually getting a job at the Holly-

wood-based William Morris Agency, now William Morris Endeavour.

As time passed, Praagh continued to meet with fellow mediums, sharing more of his experiences, embracing his preternatural abilities and vowing to dedicate his gift to the service of others.

‘I see dead people’

Van Praagh describes his clairvoyance and intuitive gifts as pictures or movies playing in his head. He also claims to be clairaudient, or perceiving by hearing the inaudible, and clairsentient, or picking up emotional or psychic energy imperceptible to the standard five senses.

According to Van Praagh, raising his vibrational frequency to a higher spiritual level and keeping it elevated allows him to relay messages from beyond the veil to family members and relatives in the physical universe, all of which took him years to develop.

So what type of message does a departed soul have to share?

“(The spirits) give me a really strong sense of their personality, and many times they’ll come through to bring their final message — one last chance to tell a loved one they loved them or deliver a final message,” Van Praagh said. “It might be forgiveness, ‘I miss you,’ closure, unfinished business. And I’m the conduit for that

work.”

And even during the course of daily living, Van Praagh said he is frequently visited by “spirit people.”

“I see dead people all the time,” Van Praagh said. “I was born this way.”

Skeptics

Over the course of his long career, the self-proclaimed clairsentient has faced considerable skepticism and scrutiny. In 1994, Van Praagh appeared in a special segment on “Unsolved Mysteries,” highlighting parents who went searching for answers after their son had fallen to his death while climbing Mt. Fuji in Japan.

Despite entering their meeting with Van Praagh with trepidation, Sue and Don Raskin said they were impressed by Van Praagh’s abilities, especially when he mentioned the couple’s miscarriage 33 years earlier.

“When he told us about these events and named all the people that had been gone for many, many years, he was able to get their personalities so right on,” Sue Raskin said during the episode. “There’s just no possible way.”

During the episode, Van Praagh later met with a group of individuals randomly selected by the show’s producers. The group included professor Michael Shermer, executive director

ENCINITAS RESIDENT James Van Praagh, a spiritual medium and author, will hold an event July 28 at the Seaside Center for Spiritual Living in Cardiff. Courtesy photo

EVENTS CALENDAR

JULY 21

FOOZ FIGHTERS

Award Winning Foo Fighters tribute band featuring dynamic frontman Nicky Rich, Fooz Fighters have blazed a trail to become the most sought-after Foo Fighters tribute band in the nation. $19, 9 p.m. at Belly Up, 143 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach.

ATOMIC GROOVE

Atomic Groove has been San Diego’s premier Variety Dance Band for all occasions since 1995, serving the special event industry for private parties, weddings, galas, company functions and more. $10, 5:30 p.m. at Belly Up, 143 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach.

DINE-IN MOVIES

Join us for the ultimate poolside cinema experience at Lakehouse Resort! Located on the 80-acre Lake San Marcos, Lakehouse Resort is hosting Dive-in Movies on the pool deck all summer long. $10-$20, 8 p.m. at Lakehouse Hotel & Resort, 1105 La Bonita Dr, San Marcos.

OPENING DAY PARTY

Starting at 5 p.m. on July 21, L'Auberge Del Mar is ringing in Opening Day at Del Mar Racetrack with its annual Opening Day After Party. $300, 5 p.m. at L’Auberge Del Mar, 1540 Camino del Mar, Del Mar.

‘PIPPIN’

North Coast Repertory concludes a record-breaking Season 41 with the captivating musical, “Pippin.” Winner of five Tony Awards, “Pippin” is an enthralling journey that explores the realms of good and evil, reality and fantasy, presented in a highly theatrical and entertaining style. The story follows Pippin, the first son of King Charlemagne, as he yearns to discover passion, adventure, excitement, and meaning. $68, 5 p.m. at North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987 Lomas Santa Fe Dr, Solana Beach.

MYSTERIES & HISTORIES

Historian Kristi Hawthorne will present Histories and Legends of Sunken Treasure, a 1-hour program exploring the claims of Dr. Joseph J. Markey for two shows. 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. July 21-23 at Oceanside Theatre Company Studio 219, 219 N. Coast Hwy, Oceanside.

TGIF CONCERTS IN PARK

Young Guns plays all of the best country songs from the ’60s through today. 6 p.m. at Poinsettia Park, 6600 Hidden Valley Rd, Carlsbad.

‘AS YOU LIKE IT’

The Theatre School at North Coast Repertory presents the pastoral romantic comedy, ‘As You

Like It,” as its next student production that will tour to three outdoor venues in three cities. Director Benjamin Cole is proud to present this emotional, Shakespearean rollercoaster featuring four sets of couples as they attempt to cure their love sickness.

5:30 p.m. July 21 and July 22 at San Diego Botanical Gardens, 300 Quail Gardens Dr, Encinitas; 5:30 p.m. July 27-29 at Birdwing Open Air Classroom, 3201 Via de la Valle, Del Mar; and 5:30 p.m. Aug. 3-5 at La Colonia Park Courtyard, 715 Valley Ave, Solana Beach.

LARRY & JOE

Larry Bellorín & Joe Troop were destined to make music together. Larry is from Venezuela and Joe is from North Carolina. They perform a fusion of Venezuelan and Appalachian music. $18-$22, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. July 21 at Templar’s Hall in Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd, Poway.

DISCOVERY DAYS

Join The Forum Carlsbad and San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum at Discovery Days this summer. Guests can enjoy five, rotating, hands-on exhibits designed to engage families in STEM activities. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 21 at The Forum Carlsbad, 1923 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad.

JULY 22

ALOHA PLUNGE

Enjoy island-themed pool games and activities, giant inflatables, the splash pad and more. End the night with a special Polynesian dance performance where the audience can learn the hula. $10, 5 to 8 p.m. July 22 at Alga Norte Aquatic Center, 6565 Alicante Rd, Carlsbad.

MEET THE ARTIST

Didn’t get tickets to Comic-Con not a problem, our event is FREE and a ton of fun. Come meet the Internationally renowned graffiti artist RISK at EC Gallery. Free5 to 9 p.m. July 22 at EC Gallery - Gas-

lamp, 621 5th Ave, San Diego.

CARDIFF FARMERS MARKET

Join us for the new Cardiff Farmers Market! The certified Farmer’s Market is held every Saturday from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on the MiraCosta College San Elijo Campus. Rain or shine. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 22 at MiraCosta San Elijo Campus, 3333 Manchester Ave, Encinitas.

NERD COMEDY NIGHT

A unique event that combines the best of both worlds - nerdy humor and stand-up comedy - for a night of laughs and good times. $15, 8 p.m. at New Village Arts Theatre, 2787 State St, Carlsbad.

MADD HATTERS

Come one, come all to our whimsical, interactive hat-making extravaganza: The Mad Hatters Return to the Village Faire, taking place on July 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Kids aged 4-13 (and those young at heart) can tap into their imaginations to craft a hat that’s as unique as they are. Join us in the courtyard at the Village Faire, 300 Carlsbad Village Dr, Carlsbad.

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

One Paseo is excited to debut its first-ever summer concert series featuring a diverse lineup of SoCal talent presented by Belly Up this July. The lineup will feature artists of various genres, so there will be something for every type of music listener. These shows are free to attend and will take place on the lawn behind Harland Brewing. Free, 5 to 8 p.m. July 22 at One Paseo, 3725 Paseo Pl, San Diego.

IMPROVISED COMEDY

Improv at the Brooks presents another fun evening of fast-paced improvised comedy with “Penguin Posse.” $10-$15, 7:30 p.m. at OTC Studio 219, 219 N Coast Hwy, Oceanside.

HAPPY TALES

the dogs, cats and rabbits available for adoption. $10, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 22 at Rancho Coastal Humane Society, 389 Requeza St, Encinitas.

SCIENCE & ENGINEERING

Join San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum for an after-hours event and watch the museum transform to host hands-on activity booths featuring science, technology, reading, engineering, art, and math. $10-$15, 5 to 7:30 p.m. July 22 at San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum, 320 N Broadway, Escondido.

OBON FESTIVAL 2023

Vista Buddhist Temple hosts a gathering of joy and remembrance. 2 to 8 p.m. July 22-23 at Vista Buddhist Temple, 150 Cedar Rd, Vista.

JULY 23

TORI AMOS

Grammy-winning songstress Tori Amos will perform live at San Diego’s Humphreys Concerts by the Bay on July 23 at 7:30 p.m. Humphreys Concerts by the Bay, 2241 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego.

DENE COOL JAZZ / BLUES

Come jam and enjoy listening to an authentic American artform. 6 to 9 p.m. July 23 at Jazzy Wishbone, 234 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside.

ARTWALK SUMMER SERIES

Popular one-day art shows expand to Liberty Station after success in Little Italy; events offer intimate setting with 30 artists, live music and all things creative. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 23 at Piazza della Famiglia, 550 W Date St, San Diego.

JAZZ EVENSONG

Jazz in the heart of the Village, free and open to the public. Free, 4 to 5:30 p.m. July 23 at St. Michael's-by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, 2775 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad.

SURFRIDER GALA

The Surfrider Founda-

tion is raising funds for its programs while celebrating its commitment to protecting and enjoying the ocean, waves and beaches with the annual Tide Together gala. $65, 5 to 9 p.m. July 23 at Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty Station, 2816 Historic Decatur Rd, San Diego.

JULY 24

HAPPY TALES

Children read aloud to the dogs, cats and rabbits available for adoption. $10, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

July 24 at Rancho Coastal Humane Society , 389 Requeza St, Encinitas.

JULY 25

FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS

Join the Escondido Public Library for the next quarterly craft time for adults where you can create your own customizable friendship bracelets with thread and assorted beads. 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 25 at Escondido Public Library, 239 S Kalmia St, Escondido.

WHAT'S YOUR STORY?

The North San Diego County Genealogical Society presents Charlotte Bocage, who will discuss remotely, “ What’s Your Story? Writing the Stories of Your Life.” 10 to 11:30 a.m. July 25 at Faraday Center, Faraday Ave, Carlsbad.

JULY 26

ROBERT CRAY BAND

Robert Cray has been bridging the lines between blues, soul and R&B for the past four decades, with five Grammy wins and over 20 acclaimed albums. $115, 8 p.m. at Belly Up, 143 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach.

BLOOD DRIVE

Anyone 17 and older, who weighs at least 114 pounds and is in good health, may be eligible to donate. A good meal and plenty of fluids are recommended prior to donation. 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. July 26 at Olivenhain Water District, 1966 Olivenhain Rd, Encinitas.

THE HUMAN LIBRARY

You're invited to The Human Library, a free event at the San Marcos Public Library, where you can check out a Human Book, which you read with your ears and mouth, not your eyes. 1 to 3 p.m. July 26 at San Diego County Library - San Marcos Branch, 2 Civic Center Dr, San Marcos.

BRYAN ADAMS, JOAN JETT

Canada's Walk of Fame inductee Bryan Adams will perform live at San Diego's Vieja Arena on July 26 at 7:30pm. 7:30 p.m. at Vieja Arena, 5500 Canyon Crest Dr, San Diego.

JULY 27

START MAKING SENSE

The musicians in this 7-10 piece Talking Heads Tribute take pride in faithfully recreating the music of Talking Heads entire career. $20, 8 p.m. at Belly Up, 143 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach.

BLOOD DRIVE

Anyone 17 and older, who weighs at least 114 pounds and is in good health, may be eligible to donate. A good meal and plenty of fluids are recommended prior to donation. 1 to 6:30 p.m. July 27 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 1001 Encinitas Blvd, Encinitas.

JULY 28

APRIL & FUNK JUNKIES

April and the Funk Junkies have a unique blend of rhythm, soul and high energy funk that is addictive and will leave the audience wanting more. $8, 5:30 p.m. at Belly Up, 143 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach.

EASY WIND

Easy Wind has built a reputation of creating shows that pull deeply from the vibe and feel of classic '70's era Grateful Dead. $17, 9 p.m. at Belly Up, 143 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach.

COFFEE CONNECTIONS

This networking event gives current and prospective members of the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce a chance to discuss hot topics with other professionals while enjoying a cup of coffee and custom donut. 8:30 a.m. at Broad Street Dough Co., 967 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas.

TGIF CONCERTS IN PARK

Jungle Fire is an Afro-Latin funk band creating a melting pot of Afro-Caribbean and West African rhythms with a heavy, break-beat funk. 6 p.m. at Calavera Hills Community Center , 2997 Glasgow Dr, Carlsbad.

HAVANA NIGHTS

Experience the allure of Havana with tantalizing bites, enticing cocktails, and expert cigar rolling as you take in the infectious rhythms of Fercho, easily considered one of San Diego’s top Latin Cuban groups. 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. July 28 at Fairmont Grand Lobby, 5300 Grand del Mar Ct, San Diego.

‘BILLIE!’

With “Billie! Backstage with Lady Day,” actor-singer-playwright Synthia L. Hardy brings the story of Billie Holiday to vibrant life. $20-$35, 8 to 10:30 p.m. July 28 at Oceanside Theatre Company , 217 N Coast Hwy, Oceanside.

FAMED BLUES guitarist Robert Cray performs on July 26 at Belly Up. Courtesy photo

ciate the hustle, and this small team was doing it. We never waited for another beer and there was always someone clearing glasses or cleaning tables despite the rush of customers coming down for bingo.

Did you know bingo is a thing with young people now? I didn’t. My friend and I watched the crowd filtering and drank an Aviator Belgian-style Blonde and a Platy Pug Dubbel. She was thrilled to learn about Duck Foot’s gluten-reduced brewing process.

Duck Foot doesn’t have a kitchen, but it has smartly partnered with Haggo’s Organic Tacos down the

street to offer a food menu that can be delivered to your table. There weren’t many customers when we arrived, but by the time the bingo host kicked off the game, it was standing room only. Duck Foot wins the wildcard game.

Accommodation: 13

Atmosphere: 15

Offerings: 18

Service: 18

Wildcard: 19

Total: 80

Takeaway: My expectations were pretty middle of the road, but despite the small space and limited seating, Duck Foot’s patio impressed me. I never even mentioned the great people and car-watching along the

PCH. Duck Foot Brewing is located at 978 N. Coast Hwy 101 #2051, Encinitas, CA,92024.

Black Plague’s Purgatory Lounge

When Black Plague rolled into town, Escondido was abuzz.

Not only would Escondido have a brand-new tasting room near its official downtown by Grand Avenue, but they would be bringing (arguably) one of the best burgers along with them in Full Metal Burgers.

The Purgatory Lounge provides a patio behind the taproom with multiple picnic tables spaced out well for the enjoyment of food and beer for those patrons

June 12, 2023

We mourn the loss of our father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Thomas Peter Kressin, who passed on to Heaven on June 12, 2023, at the age of 93.

Tom Kressin was a man set apart. Defying all odds, he pulled himself out of Depression-era poverty to be able to support not only himself and Mary, but to varying degrees, his children and their families also.

From day one, Tom was surpassing expectations. He was born on Feb. 22, 1930, during the doom and gloom of a Minnesota winter.

He was born 2 months prematurely, and doctors expected him to die that day. It was before the advent of incubators, so they advised his mother to keep him warm in the oven!

At age 6, Tom contracted rheumatic fever and had a 107° fever off and on for 10 days. He was bedridden for months and had to teach himself to walk again. Tom wanted to buy a bicycle, so at age 9 he got a paper route, leaving home in the dead of night during freezing -30°F Minnesota winters to deliver papers, managing all payments and accounts with numbed fingers. That was his first experience with business, and he diligently saved all his paper boy profits to begin investing in the stock market starting at 10 years old.

Tom traveled all over the world while serving in the military. He was in charge of a small island off Okinawa and helped prepare the soldiers under his command and the civilians for deadly typhoons. Always handy and resourceful, he taught himself how to repair electronics and radar equipment. Even though he did not have a college degree, he was asked to teach a calculus class to lower ranking servicemen. After the military, Tom worked as a Honeywell engineer, traveling all over the world as a consultant.

While working for Honeywell, he noticed a fa-

tally defective part in a new plane. He reported this to his supervisor, who did nothing.

He knew he had to talk to the General in charge but could not access him. So, he parked in the General’s parking spot, got arrested, and was brought to the General……who recognized the severity of the issue and gratefully gave Tom an award for saving lives!

Later, when working as an engineer at Northrup, Tom helped develop an underwater rescue submarine which could recover people on stranded subs below the surface. Again, helping to save lives!

Tom married the love of his life, Mary, in 1959, and they promptly had 6 children in 8 years! Tom felt a deep need to provide for his family and took calculated risks to make that happen. Good fortune, hard work, and risk-taking enabled him and Mary to continue purchasing real estate and buy a home overlooking the ocean in Palos Verdes. Then, as the family grew, they moved to a bigger home there.

Tom didn’t believe in “hand-outs.” He knew he needed to do it himself. When layoffs were threatened at Northrup, Tom picked a point on a map halfway between LA and San Diego, drove to a realtor there and said, “What job can a man do around here to provide for his family?” He then convinced the owner to sell him Leucadia Liquor without even the down payment in the bank!

who want to enjoy a warm Southern California day. I very much appreciated the installed shades stretching over the space providing relief from direct sunlight.

The Purgatory Lounge offers in-house food all week long. Full Metal Burgers serves up specialty smash burgers, fries, and more every day during open business hours at the lounge.

As a patron, the menu consistency is a huge plus, and not having to consult a food truck calendar is a double plus.

The patio sits at the far back of the lounge, serving almost as a “backyard.” It is enclosed by a wooden fence, adding a home-like touch to the space.

So, to grab that second

expected comments that made one laugh and think at the same time. He frequently had his grandchildren and great-grandchildren laughing uproariously at his jokes.

or third beer, you’re walking the length of the building to get back to the bar. It’s a bit of a hike, but not the end of the world by any means. The beers and burgers are both worth the extra steps.

Besides, beer and burgers in the backyard are about as summer-time as you can get. With Escondido heating up this summer, you’re going to feel right at home at the Purgatory Lounge.

Accommodation: 18

Atmosphere: 16

Offerings: 18

Service: 16

Wildcard: 15

Total: 83

Takeaway: Black Plague’s Purgatory Lounge

is a black metal home away from home, offering a wide-ranging beer board and some of the best burgers you’ll find in the city. Comforting, welcoming and an at-home feel to the back patio. Black Plague’s Purgatory Lounge is located at 239 E. Valley Pkwy, Escondido, CA, 92025.

— Cody Thompson ROUND 1 WINNER: Black Plague’s The Purgatory Lounge

Did I miss an excellent brewery patio? Send a message to @CheersNorthCounty on Facebook or Instagram, or e-mail me at ryan@coastnewsgroup. com.

Tom and Mary moved the family to Carlsbad where the kids grew up.

Back when he was only 19 years old, Tom had bought his first property on the corner of 66th St. and Lindale Ave in Minneapolis, using his savings. Tom continued this investment strategy.

He had a knack for seeing real estate deals and gradually acquired many rental properties in North County. After raising the children in Carlsbad, Tom and Mary moved to La Costa to enjoy the marvelous beach views, and then Leucadia to enjoy the marvelous beach walks. In 2005, they moved to warmer Fallbrook, where a 1 story home seemed more practical. In Fallbrook, they were active members of the community and dedicated parishioners of St. Peter the Apostle Church.

Between jokes, Tom was always quietly showing kindness and compassion for others…. whether it was giving jobs to down-andout people who came in our store or helping his tenants living in his rental properties.

One man, dying of cancer, had no one to take him to treatments. Without letting anyone know, Tom showed up week after week to help this frail man get to his chemo treatments. We will never know how many people Tom helped because he never talked about it.

Instead of focusing on himself, he chose to focus on the lighter side of life, with his quick wit and un-

Tom saw opportunity in every situation. He taught his 6 children and 16 grandchildren that with every setback comes a challenge to overcome. He was a model of persistence. He towered among men, not only in physical stature at 6’4”, but also in wisdom. Everyone looked up to Tom. His advice was sought by his children, grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. He adored his wife, Mary, and spoke often of her goodness and intelligence. He was at a loss without her when she passed on less than a year before him. Though he practiced Depression-era frugalness in daily life, he showered her with expensive jewelry, and corsages for every holiday. She was the wind beneath his wings for their nearly 63 years of marriage.

Tom was predeceased by his beloved wife, Mary Frances Owens Kressin, and his parents William and Mildred Kressin. He is survived by his 6 children and their spouses: Maggie (Peter), Peter, Katie, Andrew (Diana), Jim (Cathy), and Joe (Angelina); his grandchildren: Maureen (Nick), Ryan, Brendan, Caitlin, Thomas, Lauren, Jennifer, Mathew (Cheyenne), Sarah, Daniel (Tiffany), Jared, AJ, Mary Cate, Skye, Jacob (Henrietta), and Leah (Jared); his great-grandchildren: Arden, Lennox, Liam, and Audrey; and his brothers: Bill (Marian-deceased), and Jim (Barbara).

July 4, 2023

Joseph Galano Bassig Vista

July 3, 2023

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Oceanside

July 8, 2023

Jai Raj Rajan, 88 Encinitas

July 2, 2023

Each year both America and South Korea observe the National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day on July 27. This day was started as a way to commemorate the peace treaty that triggered a cease-fire in a long-standing war that resulted in more than 36,000 casualties for America & more than 103,000 service members wounded in action .

It is important that we take the time now to listen to their stories and thank them for their service. The men and women who served in the Korean War were called to protect a people they had never met and to defend a country they have never seen. They bravely answered the call & helped stop the spread of communism at a crucial point in world history

Please join us in honoring our Korean War Veterans on July 27th & every day!

Vicente Olivares Espinoza, 55 Vista

June 21, 2023

Tom loved God and believed firmly in the Catholic faith and morals. He taught us by example how to love our neighbor more than ourselves. He had a quiet faith that spoke through action. He looked forward to everlasting life in Heaven and we will see him again there.

Shirley Louise Magie, 85 Oceanside

June 23, 2023

Paul Richard Konieczny, 72 Oceanside

June 28, 2023

On earth, he was larger than life, so watch out Heaven! I’m sure he has them rolling in the aisles with laughter up there! And Mary was certainly there to greet him saying cheerily, “Tom, what took you so long?!?”

wide by 1.5” tall inh black and white.

Timeline

Obituaries should be received by Monday at 12 p.m. for publicatio in Friday’s newspaper. One proof will be e-mailed to the customer for approval by Tuesday at 10 a.m.

In loving memory of Thomas Peter Kressin

Robert G.I. Roman, 78 San Marcos

Dalton Pierce Kirby

ACTIVITIES/ENTERTAINMENT

Annual Event/Festival

O’side Turkey Trot GOLD

PRIDE By The Beach SILVER

Art Gallery

Barrio Glassworks GOLD

North Coastal Art Gallery SILVER

Concert Venue

Belly Up Tavern GOLD

Moonlight Amphitheatre SILVER

Downtown

MainStreet Oceanside GOLD

Carlsbad Village Association SILVER

Family Attraction/Fun Center

San Diego Zoo Safari Park GOLD

San Diego Botanic Garden SILVER

Golf Course Lakehouse Hotel and Resort GOLD

Encinitas Ranch Golf Course SILVER

Hotel/Resort

Carlsbad Sheraton/

Westin Resort GOLD

Lakehouse Hotel and Resort SILVER

Live Theatre

Oceanside Theatre Company GOLD

Moonlight Amphitheatre SILVER

Place to Volunteer

Assistance League of

Rancho San Dieguito GOLD

PRIDE By The Beach SILVER

Staycation

The Brick Hotel GOLD

Lakehouse Hotel and Resort SILVER

EDUCATION

Childcare

Kiddie Academy of

Oceanside GOLD

Magdalena Ecke

Family YMCA SILVER

Music School

Leading Note Studios GOLD

Coastal Music Studios SILVER

Pre-School Oceanside First Presbyterian

Church & Preschool GOLD

La Petite Academy/Oceanside SILVER

Private School

Carlsbad Christian Academy GOLD

Pacific Ridge School SILVER

Summer Camp

Leading Note Studios GOLD

Boys & Girls Clubs/Oceanside SILVER

Surf School

Whitlock Surf Experience GOLD

North County Surf Academy SILVER

CONGRATS TO THE 2023 WINNERS!

FOOD & BEVERAGES

Asian Food

Pho Oceanside GOLD

Plumeria Vegetarian Encinitas SILVER

Bakery

VG Donut & Bakery GOLD

Petite Madeline Bakery SILVER

Banquet Facility

Carlsbad Sheraton/Westin Resort GOLD

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa SILVER

Bar

The Leucadian Bar GOLD

Polo Steakhouse SILVER

BBQ

That Boy Good GOLD

Compadres Grilled Chicken SILVER

Breakfast

Broken Yolk Cafe GOLD

Don’s Country Kitchen

Oceanside SILVER

Brewery/Distillery

Pacific Coast Spirits & Kitchen GOLD

Belching Beaver Pub SILVER

Burger

Encinitas Ale House GOLD

The LAB Collaborative SILVER

Chicken Wings

Zen Modern Asian Bistro GOLD

The LAB Collaborative SILVER

Coffee

Bound Coffee Company GOLD

Vigilante Coffee SILVER

Cookies

Carlsbad Cookie Company GOLD

Crumbl Cookies - Carlsbad SILVER

Date Nite

Casero Taqueria GOLD

Black Rail Kitchen + Bar SILVER

Donut

Broad Street Dough Co GOLD

VG Donut & Bakery SILVER

Fine Dining Restaurant

Polo Steakhouse GOLD

Carlsbad Sheraton/Westin Resort SILVER

Frozen Treat

Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream GOLD

Pepper Tree Frosty SILVER

Happy Hour

Carlsbad Sheraton/Westin Resort GOLD

Polo Steakhouse SILVER

Italian Restaurant

Leucadia Pizza Encinitas GOLD

Cicciotti’s Trattoria

Italiana & Seafood SILVER

Lunch Spot

Raul’s Shack Mexican Food GOLD

Prontos’ Gourmet Market SILVER

FOOD & BEVERAGES

Mexican Restaurant

Raul’s Shack Mexican Food GOLD

Lola’s Deli SILVER

Outdoor Dining

Casero Taqueria GOLD

Black Rail Kitchen + Bar SILVER

Pizza

Leucadia Pizza Encinitas GOLD

That Pizza Place - Carlsbad SILVER

Rolled Taco

Raul’s Shack Mexican Food GOLD

Señor Grubby’s SILVER

Salad

Prontos’ Gourmet Market GOLD

Leucadia Pizza Encinitas SILVER

Sandwiches

Prontos’ Gourmet Market GOLD

Mendocino Farms SILVER

Seafood Restaurant

Bluewater Grill GOLD

Grubby’s Poke & Fish Market SILVER

Specialty Cocktails

Casero Taqueria GOLD

Black Rail Kitchen + Bar SILVER

Steakhouse

Polo Steakhouse GOLD

Chart House SILVER

Sushi/Japanese Food

Wrench and Rodent

Seabasstropub GOLD

Harney Oceanside & Lounge SILVER

Tacos

Raul’s Shack Mexican Food GOLD

Casero Taqueria SILVER

View

Lakehouse Hotel and Resort GOLD

Cococabana SILVER

Wine Bar

La Costa Wine Company GOLD

Witch Creek Winery SILVER

Wine Selection

La Costa Wine Company GOLD

Polo Steakhouse SILVER

Winery

La Costa Wine Company GOLD

Solterra Winery & Kitchen SILVER

HOME & GARDEN

Carpet & Flooring Cleaner

Encinitas Carpet Cleaning GOLD

North County Carpet Cleaning SILVER

Carpet & Flooring Store

Floor Store & Design Center of Encinitas GOLD

Action Carpet & Floor Decor SILVER

Check out the website to see the full winner listing: TheBestofNorthCounty.com

HOME & GARDEN

Chimney Cleaning

Chimney Sweeps, Inc GOLD

San Diego Chimney Sweeps SILVER

Countertops/Granite

Hurricane Carpentry Inc GOLD

SD Flooring Center & Design SILVER

Furniture Store/Home Furnishings

Lawrance Furniture GOLD

Oak Gallery Photo & Art Boutique SILVER

Gardening Store/Nursery

Green Thumb Nursery -

San Marcos GOLD

Armstrong Garden Centers SILVER

Home Design Center

Lawrance Furniture GOLD

Oak Gallery Photo & Art Boutique SILVER

Mortgage Broker

Dave Pennington at Cross Country Mortgage, LLC GOLD

Luis Ceja Jr SILVER

Pest Control

Triton Termite & Pest Control GOLD

Vester Pest Control SILVER

Property Management Company

Stubbs Real Estate, Inc. GOLD

Brenda Bomar, SRES SILVER

Real Estate Company

Nadia Colucci, Colucci & Co. Realty Group GOLD

Stubbs Real Estate, Inc. SILVER

Real Estate Team

Nadia Colucci, Colucci & Co. Realty Group GOLD

JAKE SMOKE | Team Smoke |

eXp Realty SILVER

Remodeler/Contractor

Hurricane Carpentry Inc GOLD

Glass and Mirror Shoppe SILVER

Residential Realtor

Trudy’s Coastal Properties GOLD

Steve Ploetz - REALTOR SILVER

Window Treatments

Glass and Mirror Shoppe GOLD

Escondido Glass Company, Inc. SILVER

CONGRATS TO THE 2023 WINNERS!

LIFESTYLE & BEAUTY SERVICES

Alternative Fitness

Chuze Fitness GOLD

The Smart Fit Method SILVER

Beauty Salon

Strut Hair Solutions GOLD

June Hair Co. SILVER

Day Spa

Four Moons Spa GOLD

Brio Skin Studio SILVER

Facials

The Sugar Loft GOLD

Brio Skin Studio SILVER

Gym

Chuze Fitness GOLD

The Smart Fit Method SILVER

Hair Salon

June Hair Co. GOLD

The Hair Parlour SILVER

Massage

Brio Skin Studio GOLD

Four Moons Spa SILVER

Nail Salon

Happiness Nails & Spa GOLD

101 Nail Lounge SILVER

Spa

Carlsbad Sheraton/Westin Resort GOLD

Four Moons Spa SILVER

Waxing

The Sugar Loft GOLD

Four Moons Spa SILVER

Yoga Studio

Continuum Arts & Pilates GOLD

YogaSix SILVER

MEDICAL

Alternative Therapies

North County Cancer Fitness GOLD

ASAP IVs - IV Therapy

Clinic Encinitas SILVER

Assisted Living

La Vida Del Mar GOLD

Gary and Mary West PACE SILVER

Cosmetic Surgery Center

Moradi MD Cosmetic Surgery GOLD

Schoemann Plastic Surgery SILVER

Dentist/Orthodontist

Beam Orthodontics GOLD

Vista Family Dental SILVER

Doctor

Carlsbad Urgent Care

San Marcos GOLD

Encinitas Periodontics & Dental Implants SILVER

Hospice

Hospice of the North Coast GOLD

The Elizabeth Hospice SILVER

MEDICAL

Hospital

Scripps Memorial Hospital

Encinitas GOLD

Tri-City Medical Center SILVER

In-Home Senior Care

Whole Life Home Health Care GOLD

Gary and Mary West PACE SILVER

IV Therapy

ASAP IVs - IV Therapy

Clinic Encinitas GOLD

Four Moons Spa SILVER

Med-Spa

Brio Skin Studio GOLD

Eir Aura Health SILVER

Medical Practice

Encinitas Periodontics & Dental Implants GOLD

Waring Court Pediatric and Adult Medical Group SILVER

Optometrist (Eye Doctor)

Dr. David Bloch Adult & Pediatric Optometry GOLD

Solana Beach Family Optometry SILVER

Oral Surgeon

Encinitas Periodontics & Dental Implants GOLD

Oceanside Family Dental Care SILVER

Physical Therapy

Gaspar Doctors of Physical Therapy GOLD

Tri City Physical Therapy SILVER

Rehab

Gary and Mary West PACE GOLD

Gaspar Doctors of Physical Therapy SILVER

Senior Dental

Senior Dental CenterNorth County GOLD

Correct Choice Dental Group

James La Jevic DMD SILVER

Urgent Care/Walk in Clinic

Carlsbad Urgent Care

San Marcos GOLD

UC San Diego Health Express

Care - Encinitas SILVER

Veterinarian Clinic/Hospital

Coastal Animal Hospital GOLD

The Drake Center for Veterinary Care SILVER

SERVICES

Animal Nonprofit

San Diego Humane Society GOLD

Rancho Coastal Humane Society SILVER

Auto Delaership New

Bob Baker Auto Group GOLD

Hoehn Honda Carlsbad SILVER

Auto Service Center

DRIVE AutoCare GOLD

Charlie’s Foreign Car SILVER

Car Wash

The Palomar Pearl Car Wash GOLD

Encinitas Car Wash SILVER

Catering

Leucadia Pizza Encinitas GOLD

Up In Smoke BBQ SILVER

Customer Service

Nadia Colucci, Colucci & Co. Realty Group GOLD

Chuze Fitness SILVER

Estate Law

Tresp Law, APC GOLD

Koza Law Group, APC SILVER

Financial Planning/Wealth

Management

Billie Cook CFP GOLD

The Financial Team SILVER

Funeral Home/Services

Allen Brothers Mortuary GOLD

Eternal Hills Mortuary & Crematory

at Eternal Hills Memorial Park SILVER

Insurance Company

Lauren Bottger, Representing American National Insurance GOLD

Robin Horton: Allstate Insurance SILVER

Law Firm

Tresp Law, APC GOLD

Dillon, Miller, Ahuja & Boss LLP SILVER

Office Equipment/Technology

I Hate Computers GOLD

Encinitas Technology Center SILVER

Personal Injury Lawyer

Law Firm of Richard L. Duquette GOLD

Harris Personal Injury

Lawyers, Inc. SILVER

Pet Grooming

Carlsbad Pet & Feed GOLD

Posh Pets Grooming SILVER

Place to Work

Carlsbad Urgent Care

San Marcos GOLD

Carlsbad Pet & Feed SILVER

Wedding Venue

San Diego Botanic Garden GOLD

The Crossings at Carlsbad SILVER

SHOPPING

Antiques/Collectibles

Assistance League of Rancho San Dieguito GOLD

Oak Gallery Photo & Art Boutique SILVER

Bike Shop

Cadence Cyclery of Encinitas GOLD

Alan’s Bike Shop SILVER

Check out the website to see the full winner listing: TheBestofNorthCounty.com

SHOPPING

Boutique Shop

Oak Gallery Photo & Art Boutique GOLD

Swirl Boutique SILVER

Bridal Shop

Posh Brides & Grooms GOLD

Natty Bella Bridal Couture SILVER

Butcher Shop

Tip Top Meats GOLD

The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli SILVER

Cannabis Dispensary

March and Ash GOLD

Torrey Holistics Dispensary and Weed Delivery San Diego SILVER

Consignment/Thrift Store

Assistance League of

Rancho San Dieguito GOLD

Junebug SILVER

Downtown For Shopping

MainStreet Oceanside GOLD

Encinitas 101 MainStreet

Association SILVER

Fudge/Candy Shop

Sweet Spot GOLD

Nana’s and Pops Sweet Shop SILVER

Gift Shop

Barrio Glassworks GOLD

Soulscape Gift & Book Store SILVER

Gold, Silver & Rare Coins

BP Diamonds and Loans GOLD

Carlsbad Village Coins SILVER

Gourmet Grocery Shop

Prontos’ Gourmet Market GOLD

Angel’s Salumi & Truffles SILVER

Hardware Store

Dixieline Lumber and Home Centers GOLD

Oceanside Ace Hardware SILVER

Jewelry Store

Carlsbad Jewelry GOLD

Oceanside Jewelers SILVER

Liquor/Wine Store

Bottlecraft Oceanside GOLD

Total Wine & More SILVER

Pet Store

Carlsbad Pet & Feed GOLD

Pupologie SILVER

Place To Buy A Unique Gift

Soulscape Gift & Book Store GOLD

Barrio Glassworks SILVER

Specialty Gourmet Products

Angel’s Salumi & Truffles GOLD

Chuao Chocolatier SILVER

Specialty Retailer

Strut Hair Solutions GOLD

Khara Collective SILVER

Surf Shop

Hansen Surfboards GOLD

Moose’s One Hour SUP & Surfboard Repair SILVER

HOUSE FOR SALE

So. Carlsbad Beach House for Sale Oceanfront living w/o the Hubbub of Leucadia/ Encinitas, etc!

2100 SF beach house for sale at Poinsettia Lane & 101. Safe gated community with direct ocean views & few steps down to the surf. poinsettiacoveowners@ gmail.com

GARAGE SALES

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SALOME’S STARS #12345_20230717

FOR RELEASE JULY 17, 2023

EDITORS: These horoscopes are for use the week of JULY 24, 2023

1. WEATHER: What is the name of the hot wind that blows from the Sahara Desert to the southern coast of Europe?

2. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What is the name of the condition of seeing human faces in random or ambiguous objects or patterns?

3. GEOGRAPHY: What is the only country that borders the United Kingdom?

4. THEATER: Which Broadway play features a helicopter on stage?

5. LITERATURE: Who wrote the novel “One Hundred Years of Solitude”?

6. MEDICAL: What is the common name for the ailment called epistaxis?

7. TELEVISION: Which TV comedy popularized the phrase “Yabba Dabba Do”?

8. MOVIES: What is the nickname that Steven Spielberg gave the mechanical shark in the movie “Jaws”?

9. HISTORY: When did the Boxer Rebellion take place in China?

10. MATH: Which number doesn’t have a corresponding Roman numeral?

ARIES (March 21 to April 19)

Information you need might be coming in sporadically, but at least what you’re getting is valuable. Continue to wait until more is available before acting on that career move.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20)

You continue on an upbeat cycle, and with that strong Taurean energy, you should see favorable results from your hard work. A pleasing surprise awaits you in your private life.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A misunderstanding needs more time to be worked out. Don’t give up on it just yet. Remain open to providing explanations, if called for. Another friend offers good advice.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Fast action can correct a seemingly minor problem that has taken on some unexpectedly difficult aspects. Stay with it until it’s resolved. News on a more positive note is due soon.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Some snags could cause delays in those plans you’re eager to see put into operation. But be patient. The Clever Cat will soon have good reason to celebrate a job well done.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Be careful not to let that Virgan sensitivity dissuade you from being the hardheaded realist you should be at this time. Your goals are in sight. Stay focused on them.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A more positive aspect opens up, allowing you to make some important changes in a personal situation. Remember to seek balance and avoid extremes as you proceed.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) This is a good week to get out and enjoy the fine times you missed while you were so deep in those workaday projects. Be sure to share it with that special person in your life.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Work and play are in balance this week. However, expect news that could tip things toward the workplace for quite a while — but all to a good end.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) You’re more productive on the job than you have been in some time. That’s good, but be careful not to overlook some situations developing in your private life.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) You’ve been doing a lot for others (as usual). But now it’s time to focus on your needs, including finally going on that long-delayed trip you’ve been hoping to make.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20)

It’s all smoothly going on ‘twixt you and that very special person in your life. But a colleague causes some disruption on the job that you might be called on to help settle.

BORN THIS WEEK: You are sensitive to the needs of others, but you’re no pushover. You would make a fine teacher, psychologist or minister.

© 2023 King Features Synd., Inc.

TRIVIA TEST ANSWERS

Pareidolia. 3. Republic of Ireland. 4. “Miss Saigon.” 5. Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

Nosebleed. 7. “The Flintstones.” 8. Bruce. 9. 1900. 10. Zero.

Cox increases fiber-powered internet speeds

Cox Communications recently updated its broadband packages, providing faster speeds at no extra cost to the majority of its residential customers. Everyone on Cox’s most popular tier went from 250 Mbps (megabits per second) to 500 Mbps. Now, more than 75% of all Cox customers receive download speeds of a half-gigabit or more.

What can you do with half a gig?

An internet user can download:

• An entire HD movie in less than 10 seconds

• 10 mobile games in less than 5 seconds

• An entire music album in less than 2 seconds

Keeping ahead of home internet demands

The need for speed continues to increase – more devices, more connections, more bandwidth. Cox’s upgraded speeds will help internet users stay ahead of their home network’s demands.

The speed you need

Cox now offers five speed tiers. In addition to upgrades for 250 Mbps customers, those on the current 150 Mbps package have been upgraded to 250 Mbps.

• Go Fast – 100 Mbps

• Go Faster – 250 Mbps

• Go Even Faster – 500

Mbps (Cox’s most popular tier)

• Go Super Fast – 1 Gbps

• Go Beyond Fast – 2 Gbps

More to come:

Cox already offers speeds of up to 100 Gbps (gigabits per second) for Cox

Business customers and the company is continuing to build upon its proven track record of delivering on technology investments.

In the past 10 years, Cox has invested more than $20 billion in network and product upgrades to deliver some of the most powerful internet, TV, phone, smart

home and mobile services and will continue making multibillion-dollar annual infrastructure investments over the next several years.

Cox Mobile exclusive for internet customers

Earlier this year, Cox launched its mobile service in San Diego. Exclusive to Cox Internet customers, Cox Mobile offers two plans to make it simple for customers to choose which plan is right for them.

Pay As You Gig – $15 per gig per month; only pay for the data you need.

Gig Unlimited – $45 per month and perfect for

constant communicators, streaming or using your favorite apps when you’re on the go.

You can easily switch back and forth between either option if and when your data needs change.

Cox Mobile runs on the network with unbeatable 5G reliability. That means 4G LTE speeds and fast 5G available for 5G-capable devices.

For more information, visit cox.com.

CONTINUED FROM 13

to have a teenage counterpart,” she said.

This production of “Little Shop of Horrors” includes many firsts for Luminary Arts, said vice president and show director Amy Throckmorton. This is the company’s first show with two casts divided by teens and adults, and for the adult cast, the first time it’s been opened it up to both professional actors and community members.

The main goal of having a split cast, Throckmorton said, was to expose the younger actors to professional performers and allow them to collaborate.

“It’s been a real success,” Throckmorton said. “I wanted to give them that experience, to work alongside adult actors who have had that experience. I think it’s been really great — I’ve seen these teenagers grow exponentially in terms of attitude but also their acting skills.”

Some of the teen cast members have been involved with Luminary for years, having participated in the company’s in-school or after-school programs in school districts in San Marcos, Poway and Fallbrook.

Luminary Arts’ inschool programs, which offer theater, dance and music classes for all students at participating schools, are the company’s bread and butter. In the past few years, it’s expanded to after-school classes for tap and ballet dance, musical theater jazz, improv and even RPG acting.

“That’s kind of our outreach, where we touch kids that wouldnt know about theater or music and get them interested in that,” Throckmorton said.

The actors in “Little Shop of Horrors” have been working on the show since

May. Athena Woessner, 17, who plays Audrey in the teen cast, said she is excited to move out of rehearsals to the actual performances.

“I love ‘Little Shop of Horrors.’ This is definitely a dream role of mine,” Woessner said. “It’s great to see the shift in the musical when we have all our costumes and lights and makeup and all that — it brings it all together.”

Adult cast — July 22 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Teen cast — July 21 at 7 p.m. and July 23 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available online at luminaryarts.org. Mission Hills High School is located at 1 Mission Hills Court in San Marcos.

Our Top 3 benefits of Summer Music Camps

Summer is just starting, and for most of us, we may look back on our endless, carefree summer days of childhood with fondness and joy.

However, now that you are a parent, you may have mixed feelings about this season. How will we manage childcare? The best answers to these questions can be summed up in three words: SUMMER MUSIC CAMPS!

Not only is summer camp fun, but did you know that there are a wide range of benefits of summer music camps for children?

Here are our Top 3 Benefits:

1. Personal Growth, Learning, and Development Music camps are a great way to keep your child learning music and retaining what they learned throughout the year.

2. Positive Role Models Camps give an opportunity to interact with positive adult role models who are musicians. Forming these role model relationships can help kids develop the confidence, self-esteem, and skills they need

to succeed in school and life.

3. Socializing and Friendship Building

A summer camp program provides a safe environment for children to develop social skills, decision-making skills, and even experience the many different ways to learn music!

Music Camps offers an exciting, inspiring week within a safe, welcoming environment that will help them grow as musicians and individuals.

‘LITTLE SHOP’

It’s been a real success. ...

I’ve seen these teenagers grow exponentially in terms of attitude but also their acting skills.”

Amy Throckmorton Director, ‘Little Shop of Horrors’

COX PROVIDES faster speeds at no extra cost to most of its residential customers. Courtesy photo

Savage Gardens: ‘The Real and Imaginary World of Carnivorous Plants’

Now open at San Diego Botanic Garden

Explore the bizarre and captivating world of carnivorous plants with Savage Gardens, a new exhibition at San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas. Now through October 29, the traveling showcase presented in partnership with Ohio based Tork Collaborative Arts, features hundreds of real carnivorous plants that feast on insects,

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of The Skeptics Society and publisher of Skeptic magazine, who said Van Praagh’s performance was nothing more than a magic trick consisting of calculated guesses and general statements.

“Van Praagh is a mentalist,” Shermer said during the episode. “A mentalist is a magician doing an act. He’s doing what we call ‘cold reading.’ You meet somebody you’ve never seen before and you tell them things about them. You start general, you throw things out rapid-fire, you watch their facial expressions to see if you’re getting hits or misses. When you get a miss, you go right on to the next thing. When you get a hit, you follow that ’til the end, until they start saying no again. And then you go to the next thing. And you keep doing that.”

Others have been less kind, calling Van Praagh a “snake oil salesman” making money off vulnerable individuals desperately seeking to communicate with a lost loved one.

Van Praagh acknowledged there are plenty of bogus fortune tellers looking to manipulate people and make a quick buck, but that’s not him. For Van Praagh, his gift is something he treats with care and wishes to share with others in the hope that it may offer someone a new perspective or a positive boost.

“In every field, there are people without integrity, not just psychics,” Van Praagh said. “It upsets me because I have a lot of integrity. It’s very sacred work, but television producers make it look like a circus act. I never sold my soul — through Hollywood, television shows — I’ve always been true to myself.”

An Evening of Spirit with James Van Praagh will be held at 7 p.m. on July 28 at the Seaside Center for Spiritual Living, 1613 Lake Drive, Encinitas, CA, 92024. Tickets are $75-$135. The VIP event begins at 5:45 p.m. and includes a pre-event reception with Van Praagh, appetizers and cocktails.

along with three larger-thanlife installations inside and around the Garden’s 8,000 square foot, glass-enclosed Dickinson Family Education Conservatory. Visitors of all ages will delight in getting a bug’s eye perspective of these unique plants with 10 to 15foot interpretations of multiple Sarracenia Trumpets, a walk-in Fanged Pitcher Plant Nepenthes, and an interactive Venus Flytrap. Recreated to look and feel like a swampy bog habitat where carnivorous plants are typically found, the Conservatory is transformed to high-

light these fascinating and often misunderstood plants with educational elements that explain why carnivorous plants have evolved to eat insects. Vendors will also be featured on select weekends selling plants, potting materials, and other merchandise for visitors to enjoy. Entrance to the exhibition is included with Garden admission. Members are free, non-member admissions range from $10-$18. The Garden is open six days a week from 9 am to 5 pm, closed Tuesdays. To learn more and book your tickets, visit www.sdbg.org.

VAN PRAAGH