La Mesa Courier - December 2013

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December May 2013 2013

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Pickleball Play in INSIDE THIS ISSUE

By Gina McGalliard

Victorian Village La Mesa’s annual Christmas event Santee Surprise returns.

East County Page 3 destination provides an ideal getaway for lake lovers.

Page 6

Will Work for Food Grill your own if you’d like–or don’t– at the Riviera.

Page 7 Mind for Music Local music teacher Evans Kontopols inspires and challenges students to reach their potential.

Page 7 Waterworks Pay your water bill and get a Big Gulp.

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Jewel of a Lady HistoricalPilates View Backing introduces the West Coast author who Pilates coined Centre introduces La Mesa’s motto. its core philosophy.

Page 17 12 Page TIPS NEWS TIPS (619) 697-2500 697-2500 x121 x124 Editor@LaMesaCourier.com Editor@LaMesaCourier.com

ADVERTISE WITH WITH US US ADVERTISE 697-2500 x140 x140 (619) 697-2500

NAMES FOR La TAKING Mesa Named TERM LIMITS Tree City USA for 33rd Year Richard El Sheikh

Collier Park

Volume Volume33––Number Number125

Group denies targeting Mayor Art Madrid

By Jeremy Ogul Everyone’s heard of tennis, ings in Collier Park.

La Mesa residents Justine paddleball, ping-pong and squash A group of La Mesa citizens will soon – but have you heard of pickleball? and Tim Frazee even serve as San begin collecting signatures for a voter referMetropolitan Authority County Transit ambassaendum on whether to adopt term limits for Pickleball, which has been Diego’s East police direct foot traffic the mayor and city councilmembers. steadily gaining in popularity dors for the USA Pickleball Assoduringlearned Oktoberfest 2013. about The City Council had discussed putting for several decades, is a game ciation. The couple it on the ballot in October, but the citizens played indoors or outdoors on one- pickleball from Tim’s mother, a behind the referendum said they did not have third the size of a tennis court former professional tennis player. time to wait for the council to spend months with perforated balls and light- Knowing the game was popular debating the issue. Instead, they will begin weight paddles. Invented in 1965 among seniors, however, and wary By Ogul by Congressman it was simply a watered-down gathering signatures in December. in Jeremy Washington version of other racquet sports, “The most valuable asset you have in a JoelCity Pritchard and his friend Bill leaders say they are fed up with station on Allison Avenue near Univerit took them almost a year before campaign is time,” said Bill Baber, an attorney Bell, the gameproblems was named after crowd control at La Mesa’s sity Avenue. Police broke up the fight they tried it out themselves.

But who is working on behalf of the proponents, Pritchard’s cocker spaniel, Pickles, annual Oktoberfest after police had to and detained the girls until their parents that changed on a trip to Tucson, the La Mesa Term Limits Committee. who hadyet a habit of horde chasing stray came to pick them up. One of the girls wrangle another of suspicious Ariz.

If they had waited for the City Council to balls. The first pickleball tournasaid the fight was the result of a Faceloitering teenagers last month.

“We were there for five days, debate the issue and then decide not to put ment held in 1976, andcrowd in of book posting, according to police.

Onwas Saturday, Oct. 5, the the question to voters, the proponents would Over the entire Oktoberfest weekend, juveniles in the Starbucks parking lot on See Term Limits, Page 9 La Mesa Boulevard swelled to between police arrested seven people – three for 200 and 300 people, police said. Many in being drunk in public, one for driving the crowd wore gang colors, and officers under the influence, one for being under said they were able to identify known the influence of a controlled substance, gang members from rival schools outside one for vandalism and one for battery.

Still, the number of arrests dropped the city.

As officers tried to disperse the sharply from last year’s Oktoberfest total crowd, a fight broke out between two of 23. girls. Police broke up the fight and cited Security agents for the Metropolitan one of them for battery on the other. At Transit Authority made no arrests, but the same time, someone threw ice cream did have verbal altercations with the interested County group can and meet issued at at anPlayers officer’s helmet. in joining La Mesa's East crowd of juveniles 20BycitaGenevieve A. Suzuki Collier Park on Palm Avenue Wednesday and Friday mornings until 11 a.m.

Once officers got the crowd to leave tions for people who attempted to ride For the 33rd year in a row, La Mesa earned the the parking lot, a male juvenile allegedly the trolley without paying the fare. distinction of being a Tree City USA, an honor bestowed and played four out ofathe five days 1984and the USA on Pickleball AssociaBurl Hogins, resident of the condoran jumped cars on Spring Street. upon the city by the Arbor Day Foundation for its there.

We were hooked minium building adjacent to the trolley He tionwas wasarrested formed.for Byvandalism. the '90s, pick- we were City clerk Mary Kennedy and a staff commitment to effective urban forest management. rightstop, away,” said “Because said theJustine. crowd of juveniles frightMoments later, officers witnessed leball was being played all around member review documents submitted La Mesa achieved Tree City USA recognition by it’s ened a lotcondo easier [when] you’re residents, many of whom are another pair of girls fighting among by attorney Bill Baber on behalf of the the country. meeting the program’s four requirements: a tree board playing on one-third the size of a a large in the of the La Mesa Term Limits Committee.

Thecrowd game hasvicinity earned a fire department, a tree-care ordinance, an annual commuOktoberfest, 4 tennis court, and it’s aSee much more Page devoted following in La Mesa, easier game to play than tennis.” nity forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, an Arbor where players meet to battle it out See Tree City USA, Page 5 See Pickleball, Page 2 on Wednesday and Friday morn-

No cheers for Oktoberfest crowd issues

Throwing a ‘Hooley’ for Ireland

By Genevieve A. Suzuki

La Mesa Journal

Maybe it’s the luck of the Irish or maybe Hooleys owner Craig MacDonald kissed the Blarney Stone before attending this year’s Irish Pubs Global Conference in Dublin, Ireland.

Either way, last month Hooleys Irish Pub & Grill was named

By Genevieve A. Suzuki the International Irish Pub of the Year by its peers, an honor hard by to believe, Lillian Palmer seems like thatthe tooksweet MacDonald completehowever, surprise.this organized HOA president is a crooning, sensual diva in said her neighbor next door as she walksThe her “publican,” dog, a term for pub owners in Ireland, other Hooleys incarnation.

Sparky, a scruffy adopted pound pooch even she know he didn’t was nominated. “It was a huge Andwhen yet itthey onlyannounced takes a few minutes in affectionately calls “Sparkalicious.” a and Palmer, tremendous honor Hooleys,” said presence force the svelte redhead, waves happilyMacDonald, to her fellow whoPalmer’s was excited to get to therealize awardwhat at thea Guinness lady is.makes A trueit entertainer, Palmer can vamp residents in her Baltimore Drive townhome Brewery Oct. 1. “What great is it’s an organization of Vivian Leigh in Gone with the Wind one all my peers,inpublike owners from all around the world.” complex, politely inquiring about events perform a Gathering scene fromof Hitchcock’s The annual minute, Irish Pubs Global Irish Pub their lives only a friend would know.

Rebecca the next,pub before suddenly Owners and Managers brings owners and dropping managersa From left, Oliver Hughes, CEO of The Porterhouse Because she Pub serves as the president funny line issues from anfacing old Cheech film. together discuss daily pubs & asChong well as key and Brewery, Hooleys owner Craig MacDonald and association, of her homeowners it’s tonot Palmer it all started at the family trends and influences on the said next generation of Irish pubs.

The Enda O’Coineen, president of Irish Pubs Global. surprising that she would be on a first-name Lillian Palmer See Hooleys, basis with at least half the neighborhood. It’s See Journal,Page Page159

HOA President Hits the High Note

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Noteworthy

LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

La Mesans in the News

Helix Charter High School athlete Jorge Garcia was named to the 2014 POWER SHOWCASE All-American Baseball Team.

First baseman/catcher Garcia will proudly represent California during the Home Run Derby featuring 130 of the most prolific amateur prospects from around the country and the All-American Classic game featuring top 2014 graduates in an East vs.

West matchup Jan. 2-5, 2014 at Marlins Stadium in Miami.

Players were selected

by POWER SHOWCASE Jorge Garcia based on their abilities, power, scout references and high school and showcase tournament performance.

Garcia is a member of Coach Cole Holland’s Helix Charter Highlanders team.

Garcia is also a member of Coach Damian Jackson’s travel team, San Diego Game Face.

Garcia’s athletic awards and honors include the UT’s High School Players to Watch list, All East County First Team, All East County First Coaches Team, MVP Under Armour Team One National Teams, Silver Medalist in 14U Junior Olympics, and Bronze Medalist with Mexican National Team in the boys’ World Tournament.

“It is a distinct pleasure to talk and refer a great young man that I have coached for three years,” said Jackson. “Jorge Garcia is a great young man that would be a benefit to anyone’s program/ball club! He’s a good respectful kid on and off the field. Jorge is a person that goes about his business the right way. This gentleman is being raised with great morals and always takes his actions into consideration.”

High school athletes sign letters of intent

The 152 high school seniors who signed letters of intent to play college athletics Nov. 13 at the San Diego Hall of Champions included Jeremiah Wylie of Helix High School and Valhalla athletes Jordan Qsar, Emily Rosenthal, and Madison Stockton.

Wylie will continue his baseball career at San Jose State University. During the 2013 season he was both an outfielder and a pitcher for the Highlanders.

Qsar has played outfield, shortstop, and pitcher for the Norsemen. He signed a letter of intent with Pepperdine University, which is located in Malibu.

Rosenthal’s friends and family members will soon learn SDSU also stands for South Dakota State University as she will be swimming for the SDSU in Brookings, South Dakota.

And although rowing is not a CIF sport in San Diego County, Stockton was able to obtain a crew scholarship from Cal and will row for Berkeley.

La Mesa Courier in the Club

La Mesa Courier staff won several honors at this year’s San Diego Press Club Awards.

La Mesa Courier layout editor Aleta El Sheikh won third place for Comic-Con design among non-daily newspapers; columnist Pam Crooks won third place for her regular feature, The Sun Shines Sooner; and staff writer Jeremy Ogul won third place for his article on pit bulls.

La Mesa Courier editor Genevieve A. Suzuki earned first place among non-daily newspapers for her series on water in San Diego in sister publication Mission Valley News, also owned by Mission Publishing Group.

Joe Naiman contributed to this month’s Noteworthy edition.

December

Events Calendar

Grossmont Center’s Boughs of Holly & Giveaway Jolly – Nov. 29

Grossmont Center welcomes Santa to the mall Nov. 29 with drawings and giveaways throughout the day and the annual tree lighting and snow flurry at 6 p.m. Santa arrives at 10 a.m. in Macy’s Courtyard and will make daily appearances through Christmas Eve. Visit www.grossmontcenter.com for more information.

Advent Study Program – Dec. 4, 11 & 18

A three-session “Lunchtime Advent Study,” led by The Rev. Kaji Douša at the United Church of Christ of La Mesa (UCCLM), will focus on ways of bringing joy to the season by “putting our houses in order” spiritually, physically and within our families and communities. The group meets at noon, De. 4, 11 and 18, in Pastor Douša’s office. UCCLM is at 5940 Kelton Avenue, La Mesa, CA 91942. Call (619) 464-1519 for more information.

Balboa Park December Nights – Dec. 6 & 7

December Nights light up Balboa Park for the 35th consecutive year Dec. 6 from 3 to 11 p.m. and Dec. 7 from noon to 11 p.m. As always, the event brings families and friends together to spread holiday joy, learn more about the cultural value of Balboa Park and kick-off the “most wonderful time of the year.”

Christmas in the Village – Dec. 13 & 14

Christmas in the Village returns Dec. 13 and 14 from 5 to 10 p.m. Don’t miss the Holiday Parade starting at 5 p.m. both nights. The event includes strolling minstrels, carolers and street entertainers, food and commercial vendors, and Santa Claus!

Babes in Toyland – Dec. 13, 14 & 15

The Salvation Army Kroc Center’s Kroc Kids Junior Theatre Company presents performances of the holiday classic, Babes in Toyland, Dec. 13, 14 and 15 in the Joan B. Kroc Theatre (6611 University Ave., San Diego, CA 92115). Follow sweet Mistress Mary Quite Contrary to the mysterious Toyland as she tries to escape the villainous Barnaby. Tickets are $12 for adults and See Events, Page 8

LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

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SANTA STROLLS INTO THE VILLAGE

By Genevieve A. Suzuki When La Mesa Courier spoke with John Vigil last year, he was hanging lights on top of the Goodwill Plaza between Spring Street and La Mesa Boulevard in La Mesa Village.

This year Christmas in the Village’s chairman was busy readying Santa’s shop for La Mesa families.

Vigil, a banker at First Republic Bank, is a busy elf this time of year, which makes sense as Christmas in the Village is one of our town’s biggest annual draws.

This year won’t be a disappointment – the Holiday Parade is still on track for 5 p.m. both nights and the Village is set to become a Victorian Wonderland. Almost 30,000 lights are strung up around the village while storefronts ready themselves for seasonal shoppers.

Strolling minstrels, carolers and street entertainers will spread Christmas cheer and several stage areas will feature live music. A horsedrawn carriage will be available for romantics and bonfires will light the boulevard for some s’mores and fun.

See Santa, Page 9

Christmas in the Village takes place along La Mesa Boulevard from Acacia to Fourth Avenue Friday, Dec. 13, and Saturday, Dec. 14, from 5 to 10 p.m.

Paid Advertisement Courtesy of Dan Smith Re/Max Lic. 01346593

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LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

through the Park

Sounds of the season will emanate from the Mt. Helix Park Amphitheatre Dec. 15 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. during the annual Sing-along Christmas Caroling. This free family event will be an evening of memory making for all generation. Donations of canned goods will be accepted for distribution through the Journey Church food pantry. Gina Seashore, known locally as That Music Lady, will be leading the caroling supported by a group of musicians. Free hot coffee and cocoa will be available, and SPRITES (a local mother-daughter philanthropic group) will provide free baked goods. Santa will be visiting from the North Pole to hear the wishes of the younger carolers. Parking and shuttles will be available next to the San Miguel Fire Station at 10105 Vivera Dr. in La Mesa beginning at 6:15 p.m.

For more information go to www.MtHelixPark.org or call (619) 741-4363.

Mike Qualls

Caroling, caroling

Rent Sense

Oktoberfest, from page 1 young families or retired folks.

“Our residents can see from their balconies and from our common areas all kinds of mischievous stuff going on – drug deals, open use of drugs, and often nasty shouting matches, some of which turn violent,” said Hogins, who is the president of the building’s condominium association, during the meeting.

This was the third consecutive year that police had problems with swarming groups of teenagers. The event organizers, La Mesa Chamber of Commerce and the La Mesa Village Merchants Association, agreed this year to forego the traditional carnival rides as a way to deter unsupervised young people from showing up.

It is just one incident away from the City Council deciding not to permit the event anymore, which seems to be the trend in other cities that have had similar large festivals, said La Mesa Police Chief Ed Aceves.

Councilmember Ruth Sterling said she will hesitate to approve another Oktoberfest permit until police are confident that the event is designed to deter unruly crowds.

“You can just see that with a gunshot all of a sudden, or a knifing, or a fight breaks out – there could be a real riot atmosphere,” Sterling said.

Now that a clear problem has been identified with the management of the event, the City Council will be held responsible if they allow the event to go on without any meaningful changes, Sterling said.

“The buck stops here,” Sterling said.

If real violence were to break out, “don’t you know they’d break the doors down wondering, ‘What were you thinking? You knew we had a problem,’” she said.

Aceves said the problem is not with the police department’s ability to manage the situation but that there is no way to control who shows up or where they go, he said.

“I don’t think you want an Oktoberfest where we have a line of 10 officers in riot gear trying to control students,” Aceves said.

Part of the problem is the event no longer lives up to its “family friendly” billing, said Councilmember Ernie Ewin.

“I went by and didn’t see one craft tent in the whole project,” he said.

See Oktoberfest, Page 9

HELP WITH YELP

By Neil Fjellestad and Chris De Marco, FBS Property Management If you provide rental housing in this region especially during these economic times as a rental owner or property manager you must be aware that it is inherently a business open to criticism from its customers, suppliers and clients.

As the messenger of difficult news, as the enforcer of demanding contracts, as the arbiter between circumstances and/or persons calling for opposite resolution, as a fiduciary of private financial and credit information, and as the bill collector for the largest household expense it is natural to enjoy favor on one day and be perceived as a major source of frustration the next.

Potential renters, industry suppliers and real estate investors can become a bit wary if they read only the Yelp reviews from those in the midst of a frustrating day. If such comments do not exist, however, you must ask, why not?

Property Managers enjoy an interesting customer service role in the business community. Let’s take a look: First of all, our clients are independent landlords and our customers are their tenants.

Landlords and tenants rarely agree on much due to completely different points of view. There are a myriad of consumer laws and regulations that emphasize their differences while discouraging a common sense approach to resolution.

Second, most business has one or a handful of client and/ or customer interactions intermittent over a considerable period of time. Our interactions happen at least monthly but often weekly or daily and our relationships go on regularly for years.

Third, Yelp creates a valuable interchange for customers spending a few dollars up to several hundred which represent a small percentage of that customer’s income. Expressing a personal opinion about a product or service can be a hobby for some while providing consumer guidance to others.

However, rental customers pay from a third to over one half of their household income for the housing products and services we represent. Equally frustrated, rental owner clients see the reality of the cost and personal liability of their extended real estate ownership; often without substantial financial rewards. In our daily interactions with clients and customers we understand that a lot is at stake and it is natural to blame the messenger.

LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

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LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

SCHOOLING THE HOLIDAYS Compiled by Jen Van Tieghem With the holidays coming down the chimney, La Mesa Courier has created a list of event offerings around local schools to celebrate the season. Some have planned pageants with music and dance, others are hosting craft nights for students and family, and many are holding food drives to help the less fortunate. Visit our online calendar at ScoopSanDiego.com/calendar to find other community events and post your own free listings this holiday season and all year round.

Murdock Elementary A Holiday Soiree Dec. 5: This event will provide families with a chance to celebrate the season and participate in fun-filled activities. Students will give music performances for parents, grandparents and guests, thanks to the efforts of Elizabeth Valdez, the head of Murdock’s popular music program. In addition, families will have a chance to do some holiday shopping, enjoy hot cocoa, and nibble on festive goodies. Students can learn to make a winter snow craft, with donations requested in support of the school’s art docent program. Carolers will “deck the halls” and Santa will be at the event to spread some holiday cheer. For more information about this event, please contact Jennifer Reichstadt, PTA VP of Ways and Means, at fundraising@murdockpta.org. 5 to 8 p.m.

La Mesa Middle School Winter Choral Concert Dec. 19: Featuring male and female ensembles, chamber choir, and guitar classes. 6 to 7 p.m.

See Holidays, Page 8

SYCUAN CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF GAMING The Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation knows how to play – and work – hard. On Saturday, Nov. 23, Sycuan Casino celebrates three decades of exciting state-of-the-art gaming action with a casino-wide party.

Festivities kick off at 10 a.m. and include Vegas-style showgirls greeting guests; free gifts for all players; hourly cash giveaways totaling $30,000; and $300,000 in must-go Bingo payouts, including two brand-new BMWs. Sacred ceremonial Bird Singers and Dancers will serenade and entertain guests at 6 p.m. along with a giant cake-cutting service recognizing this very special occasion.

Lest you think it’s all play for Sycuan, you should know the band has worked hard to protect its sovereignty and preserve the well-being of the Sycuan people through self-sufficiency and responsible governance, while having a positive impact on the community.

Sycuan’s generosity has been experienced and well documented over the years by a wide variety of charitable and civic groups and individuals throughout San Diego County. Sycuan’s spirit of sharing goes beyond this financial assistance, however.

Neighbors in East County and beyond have experienced Sycuan’s hospitality first-hand as the tribe has opened its facilities and resources to the surrounding communities.

The Sycuan Fire Department, originally established in 1974 to provide full-time protection for the reservation, now helps with fire fighting and emergency medical help for the surrounding 700 square miles, as well. Sycuan fire fighters and specially trained forest fire crews have answered the call for help throughout the Southwest, including support to fight brush and wild fires throughout the region and assisting in See Sycuan, Page 9

JAZZ Wednesdays – Gilbert Castellanos Jazz Jam at Seven Grand. Free. 9 p.m.

SevenGrandBars.com.

Wednesdays – Jazz with Kice Simko and Friends at Riviera Supper Club. Free. 9 p.m. www.RivieraSupperClub. com.

Fridays – Sam Johnson Jazz Group at Cosmos Coffee Cafe. Free. 3 to 5 p.m. Cosmos​ CoffeeCafe.com.

Saturdays – Jazz with George and Alan at Bistro Sixty. Free. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. www.SanDi​egoDesserts.net.

Saturdays – Douglas Kvandal with the LiveJazz!

Quartet at the Amigo Spot at the Kings Inn. Free. 7 p.m. www.king​sinnsandiego.com.

Nov. 30 – Coast Bop at 98 Bottles. $10 adv/$12 day of show. 8 p.m. www.98BottlesSD.com Dec. 7 – Mercury Street Blues at San Pasqual Winery Tasting Room. Free. 7 p.m. www.SanPasqualWinery.com Dec. 13 – Sure Fire Soul Ensemble at Riviera Supper Club. Free. 9 p.m. www.Rivi​eraSupperClub.com

CLASSICAL Dec. 6 – 8 – Beethoven’s Ninth at Copley Symphony Hall. $25 to $101. Fri. & Sat. 8 p.m. Sun. 2 p.m. www.SanDi​egoSymphony.org Dec. 13 – 15 – Bronfman Plays Beethoven at Copley Symphony Hall. $20 to $96.

Fri. & Sat. 8 p.m. Sun. 2 p.m. www.SanDiegoSymphony.org Dec. 15 – “Many Strings” with Chris and Jamie Burns at Mission Trails Regional Park Visitors Center. Donations welcome. 3 p.m. www.mtrp.org See Music Calendar, Page 8

LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

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Bacon is featured in several offerings at Riviera Supper Club. One of the more unusual appetizers, porcine popcorn (left) features popcorn, bacon, garlic and scallions. Even the bacon chocolate cake (below) packs in the pork on top and between three layers of dense chocolate.

RIVIERA SUPPER CLUB SERVES UP CARNIVOROUS DELIGHTS It can be easy to dismiss While the items for the Riviera Supper Club and its grill take up the spotlight, adjacent bar, Turquoise Room. there are a few gems scatIts exterior appears to be an tered throughout the menu. A artifact lost in surprisingly delitime with its cious and unique retro signage Riviera Supper Club starter is their and décor that and Turquoise Room porcine popcorn continues into the ($5.50) that pairs 7777 University Ave. dining area. But well with any if you’re looking of their cockLa Mesa, CA 91941 for filling, satistails. Kernels are (619) 713-6777 fying food and popped in bacon creative cocktails, fat and mixed this is a place to check out. with roasted garlic, crispy The menu covers all the bacon pieces and scallions. grill basics, such as a 16 oz.

Bacon seems to be a cowboy ribeye ($19.50), 16 oz. common element at Riviera spare ribs ($21.50) and cheddar and it can be added to their bratwursts ($7.50). The only generous a la cart sides for an hitch is these items are cooked extra $1.50. (Other optional by you. A variety of wet and dry add-ons are a cheese sauce, blue condiments line the counter cheese crumbles, chives, picked adjacent to the community onions and horseradish.) The grill will release your inner Top shareable, family-style sides Chef. If you’re grill-phobic, $5 is are all priced at $8.50. Baked tacked on for someone on staff potatoes, baked beans, macato cook it to your preference. roni and cheese, mashed potaAll items from the grill menu toes with horseradish and come with a generous serving garlic, sautéed mushrooms of buttered garlic bread. and a vegetable of the day help

round out the grilled meals.

Behind the scenes are several items that come straight from the kitchen: fish and chips ($8.50), roasted chicken ($11.50) as well as burgers and sandwiches. Sadly, the flavorful stuffed burger ($10.50) with bacon and bleu cheese could have benefited with a trip to the grill since no char was noticed on the patty.

If you still have room, Riviera Supper Club has alluring and shareable dessert options, all priced at $8. The bacon chocolate cake is a three-tiered, dense chocolate cake packed with bacon pieces between layers as well as on top of the cake. It’s their show-stopping, signature dessert that’s sure to get curious glances from other tables. Equally tempting are the chocolate-malted crème brulee, s’mores casserole and

bananas foster.

The dining room fills up quickly on the weekends; reservations are highly recommended.

Darlene Horn is a San Diegobased food blogger and has penning her opinions on food for eight years at MyBurningKitchen.com. She’s also the author of the semi-autobiographical, food-centric comic, The Girl with the Donut Tattoo, drawn by her husband and artist, Paul Horn.

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LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

Events, from page 2

Music Calendar, from page 6 Dec. 16-17 – Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker at Copley Symphony Hall. $30 to $90. 7:30 p.m. www.SanDiegoSymphony.org

thetincan1.wordpress.com

Dec. 20 - 22 – Holiday Pops: An Americana Christmas at Copley Symphony Hall. $20 to $85. Fri. 8 p.m. Sat. 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Sun. 7:30 p.m. www.SanDiegoSymphony.org

Dec. 6 – Soft Lions, Idyll Wild, and Spaceships at Soda Bar. $5. 8:30 p.m. www.SodaBarMusic.com

ALTERNATIVE Nov. 27 – Hanging From The Rafters CD Release Show with Tiger Milk Imports and Void Lake at Tin Can Alehouse. $5. 9 p.m.

Dec. 12. – The Mowgli’s, Blondfire, and The Lucky Lonely at The Griffin. $15. 9 p.m. www.TheGriffinSD.com

Dec. 7 – Dead Winter Carpenters and Jesse LaMonaca and the Dime Novels at The Griffin. $10. 9 p.m. www.TheGriffinSD.com Dec. 28 – Get Back Loretta , The Heavy Guilt, and Chess Wars at The Casbah. $10

advance/$12 day of show.

9:30 p.m. www.CasbahMusic.com

POP Tuesdays – Suzanne Shea at Bistro Sixty. Free. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. www.SanDiegoDesserts.net Thursdays – Greg Shibley at The Westgate Hotel. Free.

6:30pm – 9:30pm. www.westgatehotel.com Fridays – Nathan Welden at Bistro Sixty. Free. 6:30 p.m. www.SanDiegoDesserts.net Nov. 23 – Get Groovin’ at Pal Joey’s. Free. www.paljoeyson​ line.com

Nov. 27 – Ryan Cabrera at The Griffin. $18. 9 p.m. www.TheGriffinSD.com Nov. 30 & Dec. 28 – People of Earth at San Pasqual Winery Tasting Room. Free. 7 p.m. www.SanPasqualWinery.com Bands, venues, and musiclovers: Please submit listings for this calendar by emailing Jen@ScoopSanDiego.com.

Holidays, from page 6 Winter Instrumental Concert with Helix Charter High School Dec. 12: Two local schools join forces to bring holiday cheer with this concert featuring symphonic band, orchestra, and beginning band. The performance takes place at Helix High. 6 to 8 p.m.

Helix Charter High School 61st Annual Winter Concert Dec. 9: This very special concert will be held at St. Martin of Tours Church in La Mesa. It features performances by the Helix Advanced and Beginning Choirs, The Highland Singers, and the schools Ukulele Club, The Highland Strummers. The evening will also feature a special performance by Sacra/Profana. This group is comprised of local professional singers, ranging from graduate students to opera chorus members. The 24-voice group has quite a resume including the honor of performing for the San Diego Symphony. It is distinguished by its eclectic, genre-defying repertoire and dedicated “to promoting the living choral tradition, while breathing new life into timeless masterpieces.”

Parkway Middle School Holiday Food Drive starting Dec. 2: In lieu of a holiday performance, the school will collect food to help needy families in the district over the winter season. The food drive is a great way for students and their loved ones to give back and promote the spirit of giving.

$10 for children and seniors.

Children under 3 are free.

Holiday Open House – Dec. 17

You are cordially invited to the annual Holiday Open House at the La Mesa Adult Enrichment Center. This year’s open house is sponsored

by Atria Senior Living. Join the center for holiday entertainment and refreshments on Tuesday, Dec. 17 from 9:30 to 11:30 am. RSVP to (619) 667-1322.

Engineering with LEGOS Winter Camps – Dec. 30 through Jan. 3

JEDI Engineering with LEGOS for boys and girls 5 to 8 years: Build planes, droids, and palaces inspired by designs made a galaxy far, far away! LEGO Robotics for boys and girls 9 to 14 years: Learn about building and programming robots using the LEGO Mindstorms NXT system; mechanical and software design; problem solving; and teamwork skills. Camps meet Dec. 30 through Jan. 3 except Jan. 1. Camps will be held at the La Mesa Recreation Center, 4975 Memorial Dr., La Mesa in MacArthur Park. Call (619) 667-1300 for more information. View schedules and enroll online at www. cityoflamesa.com/classes.

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LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

Page 9

Term Limits, from page 1

Santa, from page 3

have had less time to gather signatures, said Baber, who is also an elected member of the La Mesa-Spring Valley School District School Board.

The proposal is enact a limit of three consecutive four-year terms as either mayor or city councilmember. After three consecutive terms in either position, the incumbent would have to wait four years before being eligible for office again.

The La Mesa Term Limits Committee will need to gather at least 3,306 valid signatures to qualify for the ballot. They will have 180 days to collect the signatures from the time the City Clerk receives the official title and summary of the ballot measure, which is still being finalized. Baber said the group hopes to finalize and submit the legal language by Dec. 1.

The group will probably rely on a combination of paid and volunteer signature-gatherers, said David Smyle, a member of the group.

The last time La Mesa voters had an opportunity to weigh in on the question of term limits was June 2010, when voters approved Proposition B to impose term limits on members of the county Board of Supervisors.

Prop. B won the support of two-thirds of La Mesans who cast a vote on the proposition, so the La Mesa Term Limits Committee is very confident that the measure will qualify for the ballot and ultimately win voter approval, said City Councilmember Kristine Alessio, who has been an outspoken term limits supporter.

“I have received overwhelming public support for this idea,” Alessio said. “This has by far been the most well received idea since I’ve been on the council.”

Because Mayor Art Madrid has held elected office for so many years, many, including the mayor, have questioned whether this is an attempt to force him out of office.

Alessio denies that analysis.

“This is not an attempt to get rid of Art Madrid,” she said. “I think that’s Art Madrid just being hypersensitive and paranoid.”

In fact, the proposed term limit rules would affect all members equally. If it passes, any Mayor or City Councilmember whose term begins after election day in November 2014 would be allowed to serve three total terms.

Terms that began before November 2014 would not be counted toward the limit.

That means that Madrid would be eligible to win three more terms before the law would require him to take a break from office.

“It would mean that Art couldn’t be mayor between the ages of 93 and 97,” Baber said.

Councilmember Ruth Sterling, who is the longest-serving member of the City Council and a supporter of term limits, told Madrid at the Nov. 12 City Council meeting that there was no way the term limits proposal could be targeted at him.

“You’re just barking because you’re vindictive and you want to quarrel,” Sterling said.

Madrid said his statements were justified.

“I was asked by a number of people, ‘Do you think they’re targeting you?’” he said. “And I have an opinion and I said yes.”

Adding the term limits question to the ballot will make the election slightly more expensive for the city. The City Clerk’s office estimates that it will cost $10,000 to $15,000 to verify the signatures on the petitions and as much as $20,000 to add the measure to the ballot.

The last time an incumbent City Councilmember lost an election was 1992.

“Term limits matter because we now live in a world where name recognition and incumbency are basically determining our elections,” Alessio said. “We need to even the playing field for everyone.”

Sycuan, from page 6 the Columbia Space Shuttle recovery program in Texas.

The Sycuan Medical & Dental Center serves the primary health care needs of the tribe and Sycuan employees, as well as neighboring East County residents.

Over 25 medical and dental professionals work within the modern facility, which includes a full-service pharmacy.

Sycuan recognizes the future of Sycuan’s social and economic advancement depends on promoting education of Sycuan’s future leaders.

Education is important for the

revitalization, retention, and maintenance of traditional knowledge that was passed to Sycuan through ancestors.

Sycuan recognizes the crucial role of Indigenous knowledge as an integral part of Nation building in the present and future education of its tribal members and the Kumeyaay Nation at large.

The Sycuan Education Department has created several programs to meet the growing educational needs of its tribal members and the Kumeyaay Community. These programs were designed to

meet all levels of educational needs, from kindergarten to post-secondary education. These programs are based upon the best Indigenous knowledge and Western knowledge so that each student can receive a wellbalanced education.

The programs are: Mommy and Me Infants and Toddlers Preschool Programs, After School Programs, School Break and Summer Activities, GED Classes, Kumeyaay Language Institute, and Kumeyaay Community College.

In addition to meeting with the jolly Man in Red himself, children get to enjoy carnival rides, ponies and puppet shows.

All specialty shops, boutiques and restaurants will be open late during the event.

Put on by the La Mesa Village Merchants Association, Christmas in the Village is

important for local businesses in the area. And, as Vigil said last year, La Mesans who can should forego their vehicles and walk to the event. With only a few hundred parking spots in La Mesa, walking or taking the trolley would help minimize any road rage before one of La Mesa’s happiest events.

Oktoberfest, from page 4 No crafts or carnival rides, but plenty of juveniles who are up to no good.

“Why are they smoking whatever they’re smoking down a stairway that’s right adjacent to where kids are?”

Ewin said. “Take back the city is what I’m saying with these events. It’s the people’s event and we’re not going to just give it away.”

Oktoberfest may be a big moneymaker for the civic groups that host it, “but at the expense of what?” said Mayor

Art Madrid.

When residents earnestly complain that they were afraid to leave their homes, “that is an indictment on our community,” Madrid said.

The general consensus among the council was the La Mesa Chamber of Commerce, the Merchants Association, the condominium association and city staff must work together to find a solution within the next several months, or next year’s Oktoberfest could be in jeopardy.

Page 10

LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

By Jeremy Ogul

JUST BUSINESS

La Mesa is not known for being a design hub, but Vladymir Rogov has made it his own.

Rogov Design, Inc. works with companies around the world to develop product designs that put a premium on look and feel and experience, but Rogov does not feel the need to be in a cosmopolitan center to do his work.

After all, in the age of the Internet, why live in a cold northern city where you have to shovel snow when you can stroll through La Mesa Village on a sunny winter’s day with a light sweater once you’ve finished a Skype conference with your clients and contractors?

Rogov Design has developed product designs for companies ranging from Hewlett-Packard to Aston Martin to Casio. Much of the company’s work is directly related to the military and

biotechnology industries. In fact, Rogov’s business grew along with those industries as they began to dominate the regional economic landscape.

Some of the utilitarian tools he designed decades ago are still top sellers today, such as the Microtox, an instrument that screens and analyzes the toxicity of water.

Rogov has observed how good design has become more integral to good products over the years.

“The role of design has changed a lot over the years,” he said. “The leaders of business are realizing that companies are not just a name. Their products are accessories to a lifestyle. We buy things because they enhance our lifestyle.”

Some CEOs are more conscious of the product experience than others; Apple is a prime example. When you buy a product, you’re buying into the culture and community that Apple has created.

After living in England, Canada and traveling around the world, why did Rogov choose to come here?

Like many immigrants to San Diego, “nothing brought us here except the desire to live in San Diego,” Rogov said.

Rogov and his wife, Glenda, were drawn to the weather and the culture.

“We arrived here, drove

downtown and said, ‘Where is it?’ We were expecting a big city.”

That undeveloped, blank canvas character of the region in the early 1980s was ultimately what kept the Rogovs here.

“San Diego was the first place where I arrived and felt that if there’s something that you want that’s not already here, you can be the first to bring it here,” he said.

One of Rogov’s latest products is a smart electrical outlet that glows in varying colors based on how much energy it uses. The WeMonitor outlet is designed to help users manage their electricity use in a time when rates seem to be floating higher and higher. It also comes with two built-in USB ports to ease the process of charging electronic devices such as cell phones.

The user experience is a top priority for Rogov.

“If you consider the 1950s, Europe was broken,” he said.

“Everybody was so desperate they didn’t really care if it was hard to use.”

These days, however, with so much choice and competition, a good user experience is paramount to a good product.

“Experience really is everything, and that’s what I do,” Rogov said. “That’s why I live in La Mesa.”

La Mesa Reads

By Heather Pisani-Kristl, Librarian Greetings from the staff of the La Mesa Community Library! Publishing is picking up again after its summer lull, and one of the books that La Mesa residents are requesting is the unusual autobiography of a 13-year-old boy with autism.

The Reason I Jump by Naoki Higashida explores the author’s life with “disarming honesty and a generous heart” and has given families insight into the thoughts of their children with autism.

Customers interested in novels are lining up for John Grisham’s latest, Sycamore Row, as well as Longbourn by Jo Baker, described as a “belowstairs answer to Pride and Prejudice.” Although we believe reading is its own reward, join our Winter Reading club (Nov. 23 through Jan. 11) and receive a limited-edition gift when you read or listen to four or more books.

Are you and your family planning to be in La Mesa Village on Saturday, Dec. 14? You’ll want to hear harpist Mair Rathburn’s performance at 2 p.m. in the library. This relaxing musical program for all ages is sponsored by the Friends of the La Mesa Library and will be preceded by cookie decorating for kids in the children’s area. And of course, the Christmas parade starts at 5 p.m. in La Mesa Village, making it a full afternoon. This old-fashioned holiday celebration is completely free of charge.

In November, the Friends of the La Mesa Library gave a generous donation of $2,800 to the County Library’s acquisitions department that was matched to $5,600 through the Matching Funds Program. This donation was in addition to the $5,500 the Friends provided for the library’s book budget in August.

These donations took advantage of a limited-time program that offers La Mesa Library customers many new titles starting this month: additional Hot.Right.Now. bestselling fiction and DVDs, children’s fiction such as Diary of a Wimpy Kid, new audiobooks and magazines, and 2013 Oscar contenders. If you would like to maximize your monetary donation through the Matching Funds Program, contact a library staffer or the Friends of the La Mesa Library as soon as possible. Friends president John Schmitz may See Library, Page 18

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LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

Page 11

La Mesans out in front of their community Christmas Tree, Spring and Lookout Avenue (now La Mesa Boulevard), c1930.

Image courtesy La Mesa Historical Society.

La Mesa Historical Society’s 2nd Annual Silent Movie Night Saturday, Jan. 11, 7 p.m.

For more family friendly holiday spirit, the Society partners with the Theatre Organ Society of San Diego to present a special evening of cinema history.

The show will feature noted organist Russ Peck accompanying a locally produced 1911 “Flying A” Company film, along with the 1929 Douglas Fairbanks swashbuckling classic, “The Iron Mask.”

Pre-event tickets: $12 for adults and $8 for children 5 to 12.

Day-of tickets: $15 and $10.

Historical View

Civic Holiday Traditions

For additional information and tickets, visit the Society, see lamesahistory.com or call (619) 466-0197.

By James D. Newland Christmas and other holidays may conjure thoughts of family gatherings, an overcrowded Grossmont Center, and/or the gleeful faces of children as they race to see what Santa has brought them.

For La Mesans, it also can bring up December civic traditions, such as the current La Mesa Village Merchants Association members hanging lights and decorations for their Christmas in the Village event (this family-friendly event is scheduled for Friday and Saturday Dec. 13 and 14 – see www.lmvma. com for more info).

But of course La Mesa’s civic Christmas holiday traditions go back quite a bit further.

The Allison/La Mesa Springs pioneer settlers of the 1890s and 1900s held mostly private and family holiday celebrations. Newspaper articles of the period note La Mesans receiving visiting friends or relatives – or traveling away to visit the same.

Other than small Christmas programs held at the local La Mesa Heights and Allison grammar schools, or special entertainments at the December La Mesa Women’s Club meetings (established 1902), the holidays were yet to take on the public or commercial aspects that dominate them today.

With suburban La Mesa Springs beginning to develop in 1906, the establishment of the Methodist (1907), Congregational (1911) and Baptist Church (1912) buildings within town soon made these structures community centers for Christmas time activities.

Other notable local holiday traditions during the 1910s and early 1920s included the extravagant Christmas dinners served at the Grossmont Inn, La Mesa Country Club dinnerdances, the sale of Red Cross Christmas Seals for the County’s Children tuberculosis sanitarium (in today’s El Cerrito neighborhood) and La Mesa’s Boy Scout Christmas Bazaars.

Civic Décor Hits the Streets

In 1928, among the usual holiday revels of the growing town of nearly 2,000 residents was the first note of an open civic Christmas decoration “contest” for La Mesa.

The goal was to provide La Mesa with a “real Christmas” with outdoor trees to show off its Yuletide civic spirit.

Jointly sponsored by the La Mesa Chamber of Commerce and the American Legion (who also hosted Santa Claus for a Dec. 22 personal appearance for “doubting La Mesa tots”), plans were also made to place illuminated Christmas trees along the sidewalks of Lookout Avenue (today’s La Mesa Boulevard).

The Legion offered up the live trees to be placed by “a committee of Legion men” to any citizen or business for their front yards or store fronts. Along Lookout Avenue the trees were placed in drilled holes in the sidewalks usually reserved for flags during the annual Fourth of July parades.

The Chamber also offered a “silver loving cup” to the merchant having the best decorated street tree while the first and second place

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LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

Pet Corner

FELINE FANGS CAN BE DANGEROUS

By Sari Reis Although most people are aware of the seriousness of a dog bite, many do not know that cat bites can be even more harmful.

In fact, the risk of infection from a feline bite is much higher than that of a canine.

Between 28 and 80 percent of cat bites become infected and a severe infection can occur within four to eight hours of the incident. Those most at risk are children, the elderly, and people with immuno-compromised conditions. Due to the sharpness of the feline teeth, they can actually penetrate way beyond the skin into the tendons, joints, muscles and even bone injecting pathogens that cause infection. Infected bites that involve knuckles of the hands, finger joints or feet can be particularly serious, often requiring surgery and hospitalization. It is estimated that anywhere between 400,000 – 750,000 people present to medical facilities each year with bites from a cat and 13% of those require hospitalization.

The reason these bites are so harmful is that the bacteria can spread to the surrounding tissues causing cellulitis or through the blood to other areas of the body. Cat bites that bleed freely are often the least serious as the blood will often filter out the pathogens. It is the puncture wounds with little bleeding that leave only a small spot on the surface of the skin that are the most dangerous.

If you are bitten by a cat, careful handling of the wound is essential. First, control the bleeding, then wash the wound thoroughly with an anti-bacterial soap and warm water and apply a

Newland, from page 11

residential winners would be allowed to keep the ‘live” trees for their yards.

Residents wishing to compete filled out entry forms printed in the La Mesa Scout and dropped them off at the Legion Hall.

A select committee including Mayor George Sheldon, Chamber President John Faulds, Mrs. Richard Prather of the Women’s Club, Mrs. Marie Edwards reprebandage. If the wound is a puncture wound or you are medically senting the Legion’s Auxiliary compromised, you should seek medical attention right away. and Edward Upp of the Rotary If you do not feel it is a wound requiring immediate medical served as judges. attention, watch for the signs of infection which include: redness, Although the judges found swelling or pus at the wound site, swelling of the lymph nodes, it difficult to decide, the La sudden fatigue, fever or pain. If any of these symptoms develop, Mesa Electric Co. decorations, get medical help. under direction of Mrs. Frank The best remedy is to avoid getting bitten in the first place. Messager took the “silver Never try to handle a stray or feral cat. Most domestic cats will loving cup” for best decorated only bite if they feel trapped, cornered, startled or restrained. tree in front of a business. Mr. They will also sometimes bite when they are over-stimulated. Frank Grable’s tree in front of Cats are hunters. Often when we are playing with them, our his South Palm Avenue resihand movements can represent prey to them and their natural dence took the house prize. instinct is to attack. When interacting with your kitty, use toys These “civic” events proved that allow you to keep your hands away. Recognize a cat’s body most popular over the next language when he is getting ready to attack. Generally, the cat few years and the Christmas will get in a crouch position, its ears will lie back on its head, and festivities continued to grow its tail will curl inwards. If you see this behavior, back off. When – especially as the Great pilling your cat, putting it in a carrier, or otherwise causing it Depression in the early 1930s stress, try wrapping it in a heavy towel and keep your hands left many challenged to find away from its mouth. the “holiday spirit.”

Remember, even though your kitty loves you, he can and But for every year since, will bite if the circumstances are right. Practice safety and stay La Mesa’s main street is lit vigilant. up for the holidays – a tradiSari Reis is a Certified Humane Education Specialist and the tion some 85 years old now – Owner of Mission Valley Pet Sitting Services. For more informa- but still one that lights up our tion please contact her at (760) 644-0289 or www.missionvval​ downtown village with a bit of leypetsitting.com. old time holiday spirit.

LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

Page 13

Grossmont High School

Helix Highlights From helix.groupfusion.net Helix Charter High School is inviting the public to a one-hour tour and program during which we will share our vision of excellence in education. For instance, did you know Helix’s educational program focuses on college preparation for all students? And do you know how Helix’s test scores and other data compare to some of the top schools in the county? Have you heard from Helix students about how Helix changed their lives? Are you interested in becoming involved to help Helix meet the objectives of its mission and vision? Are you willing to hear our story and provide us with feedback on how we are telling it? This is more than just a look at our facility! Join us for a program that highlights the history, goals, accomplishments, and needs of Helix Charter High School.

Prepare to be inspired! All tours begin in the Helix library.

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Friday, Jan. 24, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Thursday, Feb. 6, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 21, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Thursday, March 13, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, April 8, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Thursday, April 24, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Friday, May 2, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Thursday, May 15, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Space is limited for each tour.

Guests need to RSVP. Helix’s Student to Student program (S2S) offers student tours to be conducted while parents of prospective students attend the Excellence in Education Tour. Please indicate on your RSVP if you will be bringing a prospective student who is interested in this tour designed for them.

For more information, visit helix. groupfusion.net.

Foothiller Footsteps

By Connie and Lynn Baer In 1920, Grossmont’s first football team took the field, coached by J. Howard Becker and in four games struggled to score points, only scoring a total of six points while opposing teams scored 122 total points.

Early opponents were National City, Coronado, Escondido, Army and Navy, and Los Angeles schools including Pasadena and Compton. Over the next nine decades, while Grossmont’s opponents and leagues changed, the school spirit and pride in their teams remained.

Grossmont’s legendary Jack Mashin was Grossmont’s longest serving coach from 1923 to 1947; under his leadership, GHS teams won seven league championships and in 1927 the State Championship. In these early years, Sweetwater High was Grossmont’s greatest rival; school pride was strong with 80 to 90 percent of the students riding on buses See Foothillers, Page 16

1920 Foothillers football team.

2013 Foothillers varsity team.

Page 14

LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

CRIME BEAT LA MESA

HELIX WATER NEWS

Crime spree couple busted

Helix Water District celebrates 100 years as a public agency State and local digni- population grew rapidly metered connections, 722 miles of pipeline, 23 storage taries, Helix Water District and, in 1956, the agency tanks and 25 pump stations board members, senior merged with the El Cajon managers, retirees and other Valley Irrigation District and serving more than 260,000 invited guests gathered early La Mesa Islands and became customers.

The District received a November to celebrate the the Helix Irrigation District.

District’s 100th anniversary In 1973, as East County was certificate of congressional of becoming a public agency becoming more urban than recognition signed by U.S. Representative in San Diego’s East Duncan Hunter, a County.

California Assembly The festiviresolution signed by ties began in the Jones, Weber and boardroom of the Anderson, and a District’s administraCounty of San Diego tion office on UniverBoard of Supervisors sity Avenue in La proclamation initiMesa. District board ated by Vice-Chairchairman Chuck Muse woman Dianne Jacob. welcomed everyone to California Assembly members Brian Jones the celebration and New program allows (second from left) and Shirley Weber (center introduced general cash payments at in blue) and Senator Joel Anderson’s manager Carlos Lugo, 7-Eleven stores representative, Jesse Gipe (second from right), who presented the presented a resolution of commendation Helix Water District’s history, from to Helix board members, from left, Joel District customers its origins in the late Scalzitti, Kathleen Coates Hedberg, Chuck now are able to pay 1800s to today.

Muse, DeAna Verbeke and John Linden. their water bills with The agency transicash at 7-Eleven tioned from a private entity – the San Diego Flume rural, the agency’s name convenience stores, a result of Company – to a special was changed to Helix Water the water agency’s partnering with PayNearMe, a national district, the La Mesa, Lemon District. electronic funds transfer Today, still operating Grove, Spring Valley Irriganetwork.

The program allows under California irrigation tion District, in 1913, when cash payments without citizens voted 397 to 3 to law, the District comprises support public acquisition of a $1.5 billion infrastruc- requiring a trip to the administration the business. ture with more than 55,000 District’s The area’s post-world-war

See Helix Water, Page 18

Police busted a couple accused of a multi-day crime spree last month.

The crime spree began before dawn Oct. 17, when Michael Colace, 46, robbed a clerk at gunpoint at the 7-Eleven store on 5746 Amaya Dr. in La Mesa, according to police.

Colace drove to Nagel Street, where a responding police officer spotted him. Police say Colace abandoned the vehicle and broke into a home on Odessa Avenue. While the residents were sleeping, he allegedly grabbed the keys to their Town and Country van and drove it to Spring Valley.

Detectives found the stolen van on Crest Drive in Spring Valley, where they believe Colace and accomplice Terri Franck, 39, robbed a resident of their Nissan Frontier truck and left the stolen van the garage.

The suspects were finally found and arrested in Carlsbad Oct. 19 by agents of the Fugitive Task Force, who worked with the La Mesa Police Department and the San Diego Sheriff’s Department.

The suspects were charged with robbery, residential burglary, vehicle theft, false imprisonment, kidnapping, elder abuse and assault with a deadly weapon.

Tree-trimming accident kills worker

A 41-year-old man working for a tree-trimming company was killed in an accident on Date Avenue in La Mesa Nov. 12.

A falling Eucalyptus tree branch struck the man in the head just after 8 a.m., according to a police department news release.

The man’s coworker performed first aid until a Heartland Fire and Rescue crew arrived, the U-T reported.

The victim was declared dead at the scene of the accident.

Police have not released his name.

The state Division of Occupational Safety and Health, also known as Cal/OSHA, will investigate the death as a workplace accident.

Watch out for charity scams

The destruction wrought by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines has Americans opening their wallets to help the injured and displaced, but La Mesa Police are warning residents to be careful about where they give money.

Criminals often pose as charity organizations after natural disasters and scam people out of their money. To avoid being scammed, police suggest the following tips: First, always donate to well-established nonprofit organizations. These organizations will be thoroughly vetted by the IRS and charity watchdog organizations such as Charity Navigator, GuideStar or the Better Business Bureau. If you have any doubts, check the charity’s status with these organizations before giving.

Second, be clear about where you want your donation to go.

Some charities allocated donations to their general fund, which includes overhead costs. If you want 100 percent of your gift to See Crime Beat, Page 19

LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

Page 15

PALERMO SCHOLARSHIP FUND HELPS LOCAL KIDS STAY ACTIVE In April 1986, Thelma Palermo established the City of La Mesa Palermo Scholarship Fund in memory of her husband, Pietro “Pete” Palermo. Pete was a prominent local businessman and beloved citizen of La Mesa who was very fond of children and recognized the importance of recreational opportunities in building confidence and self-esteem. Funding for youth scholarships are made possible from the interest earned on the fund’s principal each quarter.

The Pete Palermo Scholarship Fund awards scholarships on a first-come, first-served

basis to La Mesa resident families that meet guidelines provided by the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Qualifying La Mesa families may apply for a credit of up to $60 for children age 17 years or younger toward recreation activities provided through the City. The La Mesa Community Services Department offers a wide variety of programs for youth from preschool enrichment classes, dance, gymnastics, sports, and swim lessons to week-long summer day camps.

For more information, contact La Mesa Community Services at (619) 667-1300.

AT&T PROJECT EXPANDS 4G LTE NETWORK TO LA MESA AT&T has activated a new 4G LTE cell site in La Mesa that will enhance coverage for area residents and businesses and provide speeds up to ten times faster than 3G. The new site is located near the intersection of Lake Murray Boulevard and Baltimore Drive, providing 4G LTE coverage and capacity for the community of Lake Murray.

This launch is part of AT&T’s Project Velocity IP (VIP), a three-year investment plan announced last fall to expand and enhance its IP broadband networks. Through this investment, AT&T is supporting its customers’ growing desire for high-speed Internet access and new mobile, app and cloud-based services. As part of Project VIP, AT&T plans to add more than 10,000 macro cell sites nationwide by year-end 2015, as well as deploy more than 40,000 small cells and add more than 1,000 Distributed Antenna Systems to increase the density of its wireless network.

As part of its nearly $1.15 billion investment in its California wireless and wired networks so far this year, AT&T has completed several key network projects in the San Diego region, including La Mesa. These projects build on the nearly $750 million AT&T has invested in its wireless and wired networks in San Diego from 2010 through 2012.

“Demand for wireless speed is growing rapidly, and we are excited to bring these superfast speeds to residents and businesses in La Mesa,” said Tammi Terrell, vice president general manager, AT&T San Diego.

Over the past five years, AT&T invested nearly $98 billion into its wireless and wireline networks across the country.

Hooleys, from page 1 Gathering, a government initiative, is essentially a “Call to Arms” for Irish people throughout the world to celebrate their heritage and get in touch with Ireland.

Hooleys’ award, International Irish Pub of the Year, is given to a pub outside of Ireland – pubs within the motherland are not up for consideration.

Hooleys’ success is particularly impressive considering MacDonald first thought of opening an Irish pub while backpacking around Europe as a 20-year-old. “I just kind of fell in love with the pub culture in Ireland,” he said.

Although MacDonald is half Irish on his mother’s side and half Scottish on his father’s, he jokes he had to go with his Irish heritage in the case of Hooleys because “Irish is much more fun.”

MacDonald isn’t alone – according to the U.S. Census Bureau around 37 million Americans are Irish. “I think that’s why our concept has been successful here,” said MacDonald.

Well, that and the fact a lot of thought has gone into creating the Emerald Isle-type magic that is Hooleys.

Hooleys, which gets its name from the Irish slang for “party,” will celebrate 15 years in San Diego County next March. Hooleys has two locations including the original Hooleys in Rancho San Diego and their newest location in La Mesa’s Grossmont Center.

From the polished brass whiskey still to the old church pews supporting the bar, all the interior was shipped from Ireland to Rancho San Diego. Ten years later, Hooleys in La Mesa was established, bringing a piece of old Ireland to the heart of Grossmont Center.

The Hooleys menu, of course, features the regular Irish fare, such as Shepherd’s Pie, Irish Stew in a bread bowl, and Fish & Chips. But what sets Hooleys apart is it has infused traditional selections with local flavor – take for example, the award-winning Corned Beef Tacos.

Nevertheless, for MacDonald, a pub isn’t a pub without the feeling that goes along with it.

The word, “pub,” comes from the term, “public house,” according to MacDonald. “That’s really what we try to be – a public house,” he said. “It’s always good fun in there and the good thing about a pub is you’ll see all ages. You’ll see an older person sitting with a younger person having a great conversation.”

What’s Cooking with Julie

by Julie White

During the holidays, we all need some easy savory recipes. This flavorful bread is always a crowd pleaser. My very best to all of you this holiday season.

Garlic Rosemary Bread 1 lb. frozen dinner roll dough (I use Bridgeford brand, found in the freezer section.)

6 Tbs. melted butter 1 Tbs. chopped fresh parsley (dried herbs can be used in place of any fresh herb) 1 Tbs. chopped fresh rosemary 1 clove of garlic, minced 1 tsp. salt 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions Thaw dough and cut frozen rolls in half and place in a bowl. Toss with butter and spices before adding cheese and tossing again. Place coated dough pieces either in a Bundt pan or in a wreath shape on a cookie sheet. Cover with plastic and let rise for 1-2 hours until dough doubles in size. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Page 16

GET FIT! This time of the year, it’s easy to get caught up in all the fun, food and festivities that come with the holidays.

However, this isn’t time to let your health take a backseat! Parties and rich food start around Thanksgiving and don’t let up until New Year’s Day. Here’s my best advice for keeping exercise a part of your hectic holidays. Try one or more of these tips and make sure your New Year’s resolution can be something other than “I will exercise” or “I will lose weight!”

Plan for it

Instead of trying to fit in a workout around your busy schedule, start with the workout and build your day from there. If you are planning to have a big holiday meal or attend a party, make sure you work out that day. On Thanksgiving Day, the Mission Valley YMCA is hosting fundraiser workouts at the Friars Road and Hazard Center locations. A variety of classes will be offered in the morning so you can work out before your big meal.

Everything counts

“A lot of people take this time of year off,” Karen Barry said. “Remember everything counts.” Don’t discount walking around, taking the stairs, or playing with a child – these are physical activities that are good for you! On days where fitting in a workout will be challenging, she recommends waking up in the morning and doing 15 minutes of exercises: jumping jacks, wall sits, planks, burpees, and crunches. Do two to three sets of these and the workout is done! It’s simple, takes very little time, and leaves you with no excuses!

Earn your treats

If you want to eat some of your favorite foods, include an exercise trade-off that’s small and do-able. “Make a deal with yourself to do some physical activity,” Kari Lorraine Scott said. “Give yourself permission to eat it, but do 20 jumping jacks too.”

Make it a family event

“Get your whole family involved,” Cynthia Steadman recommends. She has a tradition of getting her family up early for a race such as Father Joe’s Thanksgiving Day 5k. There are lots of run/walk events all over, so wherever you chose to celebrate, there will probably be an event nearby. She also suggests going for a family walk after the feast, playing catch or fielding a family football game the day after Thanksgiving.

Don’t overdo it

The key to this time of year is to not overdo it with food. Remember, you don’t have to eat everything on one day; you can enjoy leftovers for a few days. Leonard Jones recommends that for every plate of food you eat, you should do 30 minutes of cardio. “You get to eat after you put in the work,” he said. “If you work out harder, you won’t have to worry about a set back. You have to ask yourself: Do you really want to start over again on Jan. 1?”

LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

WALK THIS WAY The “Hills” are alive with the sound of … walking?

La Mesa was just named San Diego County’s No. 1 city when it comes to walkability. WalkSanDiego, a regional grassroots organization dedicated to making neighborhoods more walkable, chose the Jewel of the Hills for several reasons: The city has (a) extensively catalogued local walking conditions, especially around transit stations and schools, (b) consistently upgraded intersections and other facilities to better alert drivers to the presence of pedestrians, (c) instituted a host of incentives to reward developers for designing buildings and neighborhoods with walking utmost in mind, especially in their downtown and transit station areas, and (d) instituted a robust program to educate students and families about pedestrian and bike safety and encourage them to walk and bike to school.

In addition, La Mesa has protected its downtown grid network of streets, which allows for a mix of walkable destinations, including transit stops.

National City, which was first last year, came in a close second for its pedestrian-friendly facilities and amenities throughout the city. Imperial Beach moved up from fourth to third place for adding traffic calming installations and pedestrian enhancements.

The two cities that scored lowest were Santee and El Cajon.

Selecting a charity and avoiding scams

By Paul Downey, CEO & President, Senior Community Centers Giving to a charity each year is easy for most of us. We have a passion for a particular cause and want to help those less fortunate than ourselves. When you have a personal tie to an organization, giving your hard-earned dollars is simple.

But what happens when you don’t have a charity in mind or you are new to donating financially?

Often during this time of year, con artists take advantage of the generosity of San Diegans over the phone, through the mail, in person and online. These individuals take the hard-earned money for themselves rather than for reputable and legitimate non-profit organizations that serve the most vulnerable in our community.

Here are seven quick tips to help you chose a legitimate organization and avoid being scammed: 1. Only give to a charity you know.

2. Do your research! Research an organization before you donate. There are a variety of online resources that provide free access to comprehensive reports about non-profit organizations.

Start with a visit to California Attorney General’s Registry of Charitable Trusts (www.oag.ca.gov/charities), Guidestar (www. guidestar.com) and Charity Navigator (www.charitynavigator. org).

3. Ask questions. Real charities are able to tell you how they use their donations and what portion of your contribution will go directly to the group they are trying to help. Ideally, at least 85 cents of every dollar raised should go directly to programs and services of the charitable organization, with the minimal amount remaining to underwrite things like rent, utilities and other operational expenses. Also, ask them for a 990 tax form.

If they cannot give you this information – or hesitate for any reason in providing the document – don’t give them your money.

4. Do not send to a P.O. Box. Make sure the organization has an actual street address, where you can go and see the charity in action at anytime. Also, do not send cash and do not wire money.

5. Be cautious when donating online. Beware of phony websites and donate though a website that is secure by looking for “https” not “http.” Also, do not open unsolicited e-mail appeals because they can be an attempt to attain important personal information.

6. Ask for a tour. Or even better just show up unannounced.

A reputable charity would be delighted to give you a tour on the spot.

7. There should be no hard sell. Walk away from anyone who says you must donate today or offers to come by your house to pick up a check. A reputable charity will be delighted to accept a gift today, next week, next month or even next year.

Foothillers, from page 13 to the away games! In the museum, we have the “Bucket” trophy commemorating this long rivalry, engraved with the scores from 1920 to 1960.

Early football players had to be hardy fellows since the field surface consisted of decomposed granite, and often before games and practices Coach Mashin would have the players pick up the largest pieces of granite. Also, after practice, which usually ended at 5:30 p.m., students from Santee or Lakeside would walk home, often getting home two hours later. After Helix High School was built in 1952, its stadium was home field for both Grossmont and Helix: In October 1981, Grossmont finally had a lighted stadium after fundraising and volunteer efforts by the school and the community.

A second perpetual trophy displayed in the Museum is the Peace Pipe, a symbol of the rivalry between El Cajon Valley Braves and Grossmont.

At some point in its history, a metal Peace Pipe replaced the original wooden Peace Pipe; on the plaque holding the pipe are the scores of the games played between 1955 and 2009, the last time these schools played.

Grossmont’s second longest serving coach was Pat Roberts, who coached the teams from 1968 to 1981.

The 1970 and 1971 teams distinguished themselves in the county with both teams making it to the CIF Championship game and winning in 1971. Today Grossmont’s Coach Tom Karlo is a Grossmont graduate, who was the quarterback for the 1991 team, leading Grossmont to its most recent victory over Helix and possession of the Musket, the longest perpetual football trophy in San Diego County.

Since 1951, the Musket has documented the scores between long time rivals Grossmont and Helix. Coach Karlo “wanted to come back to Grossmont and give the kids in my community a positive football experience. I love this community and I am proud to represent Grossmont.”

This season outstanding senior quarterback Anthony Lawrence recently set CIF career passing records in total yards as well as pass completions, joining GHS alumnus Brian Sipe as one of Grossmont’s great quarterbacks.

To see the two perpetual trophies, decades of football programs, CIF trophies and more, please visit the Museum on one of these dates: Jan. 8, Feb. 5, March 5 from noon to 4 p.m. Explore our website at foothillermuseum.com.

You may contact us at (619) 668-6140 or ghsmuseum@ guhsd.net.

LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

Page 17

Heather Anton demonstrates planking on a Pilates reformer machine in her Baltimore Drive studio.

STRETCHING OUT FOR HEALTH HELP

By Genevieve A. Suzuki When I met Pilates instructor Heather Anton, I had a gym membership I never used and lower back pain that was beginning to interfere in daily activities.

“Why don’t you go to the doctor,” my husband asked, watching me wince as I sat down at the dining table.

“Bah,” I replied, knowing the doctor would probably tell me much of the pain stems from weight gain. I was either going to have to use that gym membership or forego the holidays completely – damn you, pumpkin pie.

Then, a couple of weeks ago, as I drove down Baltimore Drive, I noticed Baltimore West Shopping Center had sprouted several new shops. One of those shops was Anton’s business, West Coast Pilates Centre, which opened Oct. 22.

I had taken Pilates for approximately a year back in law school. While I enjoyed the lessons, they were cost prohibitive after we had our daughter. It was a choice – 30 bucks for a lesson or wipes.

Upon calling Anton, who has been practicing Pilates since 1994, I was shocked that she was offering five classes for $25. She said she believed Pilates should be accessible to everyone.

I quickly signed up and chose a class the next day. I admit I was nervous. Even after my daughter was born, I kept the extra 20-plus pounds I gained during pregnancy. I’m not lithe or flexible.

Thankfully, Anton is extremely patient and kept assuring me Pilates doesn’t have to be only for skinny Whole Foods-type devotees. “Pilates is good for everyone,” she said.

Joseph Pilates created the physical fitness system during the early 20th century. Pilates believed a person needed to integrate mental and physical health for true success. Much of the exercises concentrate on strengthening a person’s core.

Anton herself turned to Pilates after taking a class that was offered as part of a three-week summer dance program. “It really complimented my dancing and helped me focus on how my body moves rather than just moving the way I was, which, a lot of the time, was with bad posture. My posture changed and I was hooked,” she said.

“It changed my dancing as well in terms of my strength,

endurance and my center or core. It also, was very beneficial to my injuries that I would tend to get dancing. I had a lot of back and shoulder pain.”

Anton further explained Pilates improves range of motion, helps with circulation and posture, can help regain limited range of motion and strengthens the abdominals.

When I told her about my lower back pain, she said Pilates can be a great help for people with back problems as long as I’m not suffering from major pain or have had surgery. “Pilates strengthens the intrinsic muscles in the abdominals and back, which a lot of times can be weak from either sitting at a desk all day, pregnancy or injury,” she said.

Pilates is also good for the elderly, she said.

“It keeps our joints lubricated and our spines flexible.”

Anton said anyone embarking on their first Pilates class should have an open mind and not be too hard on themselves for not getting it right away. “I like to let people know Pilates is a practice,” she said. “The more you practice, the better you will get at the exercises.”

The good news is, while I haven’t lost significant weight yet – Anton recommends working cardio into my weekly routine to accomplish weight loss goals – my lower back pain has gone away. I’ve also noticed my pants fit better and my posture has improved.

Pilates allegedly said, “In 10 sessions, you feel better, 20 sessions you look better, 30 sessions you have a completely new body.”

I’m not sure if it’s all true, but anything’s better than wincing at the table while your spouse looks on in sympathy.

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LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

Environmental sustainability commission vacancies There are two vacancies on the City’s Environmental Sustainability Commission and applications are now being accepted from La Mesa residents. One vacancy is for a citizen with professional experience related to environmental sustainability and the other is for a representative from the senior adult population and must be at least 55 years old at the time of appointment. All applicants must live within the city limits of La Mesa. Commission members serve without compensation.

Applications may be obtained by accessing the City of La Mesa website, www.cityoflamesa.com or from the City Clerk’s office in La Mesa City Hall, 8130 Allison Ave., during normal business hours.

The purpose of this volun-

FREE CLASSIFIEDS Free classified ads are available to nonprofit organizations that do not charge for their services and private party items for sale. Only one ad per or organization will be accepted per issue as a free classified - additional ads must be paid for with submission of the ads. Free classifieds are limited to 25 words or less. Ads of more than 25 words cost 50¢ per additional word; payment must accompany the ad. All free classifieds will run for only one issue even if you indicate on the ad that you want it to run more than one time. No calls will be answered for free classifieds. Free classifieds MAY NOT be submitted online. Free classifieds must be submitted by mail or hand-delivered to Postal Annex at: 6549 Mission Gorge Rd #199 San Diego, CA 92120

PAID CLASSIFIEDS $10/25 words or less Ads cost $10 for 25 words or less plus 50¢ per word over 25, payable in advance of publication only. Editor reserves the right to reject or re-classify any ads. Paid ads may run for any consecutive number of issues, provided that proper payment for the ads is received in advance.

NO PHONE CALLS WILL BE ACCEPTED FOR RENEWAL OF ADS. THE LAST DATE PRE-PAID ADS WILL RUN IS PRINTED AFTER EACH AD.

teer commission is to advise the City Council on how the actions and policies of the City may preserve and enhance the quality of La Mesa’s environment, address the effects of climate change and assist in the identification of measures that will improve environmental sustainability in La Mesa and the region.

Commission meetings are currently held on the third Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the City Manager’s Conference Room, 8130 Allison Avenue, La Mesa.

Further information can be obtained from Greg Humora, director of Public Works and staff liaison to the commission at (619) 667-1146, the City Clerk’s office at (619) 667-1120 or by visiting the City’s website.

When counting words—a word is a word, regardless of the number of letters. A telephone number is a word.

An address such as “10000 San Diego Mission Road” is 5 words. We do not mail “proofs of publication” for classifieds. No personals are accepted. Paid classifieds may be submitted by mail or hand-delivered to Postal Annex at: 6549 Mission Gorge Rd #199 San Diego, CA 92120.

For your convenience, paid classified ads may be placed using our self-serve system online at ScoopSanDiego.com/ Classifieds.

SPECIAL NOTICE The La Mesa Courier reserves the right to edit or refuse classified ads due to inappropriate content, space considerations, etc. The La Mesa Courier assumes no financial responsibility for errors nor for omission of copy for classified ads. By submission of ad, advertisers agree to indemnify and hold the La Mesa Courier harmless from any claims and expenses arising from the publication of any ad. No refunds given or cancellations accepted unless such notice is received by mail 10 days prior to the publication date. MAKE SURE YOU REMIT THE CORRECT AMOUNT OF MONEY FOR THE AD – WE ARE UNABLE TO CONTACT YOU - NOR RUN THE AD - IF THE INCORRECT AMOUNT OF MONEY IS SENT WITH THE AD. Your cancelled check is your receipt.

Helix Water, from page 14

be reached at (619) 460-1744 and the Friends are a 501(c)3 organization, so your donations are tax deductible.

The La Mesa Community Library is open seven days a week - we invite you to stop in and get to know us better, whether you are reading, using the Internet, or attending a storytime. You can also check us out with the San Diego County Library app, free in the iTunes store and Google Play, which gives you access to the County Library catalog, ebooks, and partner libraries across California. In real time or virtually, we’ll see you soon!

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FOR SALE Beauty Salon for sale, 6790 University Ave San Diego. 10,000, OBO. 3 shampoo bowls, 6 dryers, 5 styling stations. For more information call 619-889-1581 (01/14) Analog audiophiles. TEAC 3440 & 2300 reel tape decks, great shape. Request details/ pic, leave contact info 619-507-9316 John (12/13)

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Roofing, licensed, bonded, second generation Allied Gardens roofer. Over 100 homes in Allied Gardens roofed. Repairs, all types of roofing. Free estimates. Call 619-2877149. (03/14) Bathtubs and sinks refinished like new without removal. 25 years under same ownership. Lic 560438. Cory Tatz Bathtubs & Sinks Refinishing 619-464-5141 (02/14) BARGAIN BOYZ REPAIRS/ CONSTRUCTION- Specializing in all home repairs Interior and Exterior. Fixture upgrades, Painting, Electric, Plumbing, Carpentry complete remodeling. Family owned and operated! No job too big or too small!

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MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO “LA MESA COURIER”

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office in La Mesa.

The District began sending out qualified water bills – those with the PayNearMe barcode and 7-Eleven logo – Nov. 4. A barcoded bill must be presented to the 7-Eleven cashier to use the service.

Brian Lawler, Helix’s customer service manager, said District customers can pay any amount they wish toward their accounts, up to $1,000 per transaction, but each store transaction will include a $2.99 convenience fee that goes to PayNearMe and 7-Eleven for administering the program.

There are 36 participating 7-Eleven stores within District boundaries and more than 100 within a 10-mile radius of District headquarters, according to Tom Melvin, PayNearMe account manager. But customers can pay at virtually any of the 8,100 stores around the country. And they are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Customers can find stores nearest them by checking the store locator on the PayNearMe website: www.paynearme.com/ locations.

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Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the above classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it is illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. Toll free numbers may or may not reach Canada.

LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

Page 19

SERVICE CLUB CALENDAR La Mesa Woman’s Club Meeting Location: La Mesa Woman’s Club Clubhouse, 5220 Wilson St. Website: lamesawomansclub.org Email: info@lamesawomansclub.org Phone: (619) 466-4362 Meeting dates and times: Second Wednesday each month at 7 p.m., third Monday each month at 1 p.m.

La Mesa Sunrise Rotary Club Meeting Location: Terra American Bistro, 7091 El Cajon Blvd.

Website: lamesasunriserotary.com Email: info@lamesasunriserotary.org Phone: (619) 644-7146 Meeting dates and times: Friday, 7:15 a.m.

(619) 462-2742 Meeting dates and times: Tuesday, noon to 1:30 p.m.

Center, 4975 Memorial Dr. Website: www.lamesarotary.org Phone: (619) 465-2477 Meeting dates and times: Wednesday, noon

Optimist Club of La Mesa

The Lake Murray Kiwanis Club Meeting location: Breakfast Meeting, Marie Calendar’s Restaurant and Bakery Website: lakemurraykiwanis.org Email: Cathy.Saur@uboc.com Meeting dates and times: First and third Saturday of the month, 7:30 a.m.

La Mesa Lions Club

Meeting location: La Mesa Community Center, 4975 Memorial Dr. Website: lamesalionsclub.com Email: LaMesaLions@gmail.com La Mesa Rotary Club Meeting Location: La Mesa Community Phone: Manny Demetre, treasurer

Meeting location: Marie Callender’s Restaurant, Alvarado Road Meeting dates and times: Wednesday, 7:15 a.m.

For more information, contact Brice Lockwood at (619) 463-5648.

Soroptimist International of La Mesa Meeting location: Denny’s Restaurant, 2691 Navajo Road Website: www.silamesa.org Meeting dates and times: First and second Thursday of each month, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m.

go to relief efforts in the Philippines, for example, be clear about that when you make the donation.

Third, be extra cautious about making donations to solicitors. Scammers who call or show up at your doorstep want you to donate on the spot before you can determine they are crooks. Do not supply personal or financial information during these kinds of unsolicited contacts. Find the organization you want to give to; don’t let them find you.

For more safety tips on making charitable donations visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website at www.ftc.gov.

PLUMBING

Police responded to a commercial burglary alarm at the Chevron gas station on 8200 University Ave. at approximately 1:15 a.m. Nov. 1.

The suspects had smashed the glass front door to enter the business. The owner of the gas station reviewed the surveillance video and provided police with identifying information, which they used to recover stolen property and arrests two suspects: Johnny Stewart, 23, of La Mesa, and Benjamin Poirier, 22, of Santee.

The suspects have been charged with burglary and conspiracy.

Charity scammers impersonating Boys & Girls Clubs in San Diego

Think twice before giving money to anyone in a shopping center claiming to represent the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego.

A group of males claiming to be employees of the organizations have been soliciting donations for a fake gang prevention program outside shopping centers in San Diego, the organization announced in a press release.

As of Nov. 13, the scammers last targeted the Wal-Mart in Stonecrest Plaza on Murphy Canyon Road in San Diego.

“We do not solicit the community in this way,” said Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego President and CEO Danny Sherlock in a written statement. “We have a very safe way of getting donations to the Boys and Girls Clubs through our 17 locations, fundraisers, online and through P.O. boxes. We don’t give volunteers that task.”

Anyone who has been approached by one of these imposters should file a report with police or call the club directly at (858) 866-0591.

The problem can only be addressed if people make reports, Sherlock said.

“Please tell your friends and neighbors also as this is happening throughout San Diego and surrounding neighborhoods,” he said.

Legitimate donations can be made through SDYouth.org or by calling (866) SDYOUTH.

8030 La Mesa Blvd. #145 La Mesa, CA 91942 Phone: (619) 697-2500 Fax: (619) 697-2505 Info@LaMesaCourier.com www.LaMesaCourier.com Executive Editor Genevieve A. Suzuki, Ext. 121 Gen@LaMesaCourier.com Contributors Jeremy Ogul Dave Schwab Graphic Artist Aleta El Sheikh Aleta@LaMesaCourier.com Advertising Manager Becky Suffridge, Ext. 140 Becky@MissionPublishingGroup.com Publisher Mission Publishing Group, LLC Jim Madaffer Jim@MissionPublishingGroup.com

Crime Beat, from page 14

Gas station burglary

La Mesa Courier

Ideal Plumbing, Heating Air & Electrical

Water heaters, Garbage disposals, drain cleaning.

Video pipe inspections, water softeners & filtration. Visit our Showroom! (06-12)

Serving our community since 1960!

(619) 583-7963 Lic #348810

AIR CONDITIONING

ELECTRICAL

Ideal Plumbing, Heating Air & Electrical

Ideal Plumbing, Heating Air & Electrical

Serving our community since 1960! Panel upgrades, sub panels, outlets, ceiling fans, whole house fans, solar systems, recessed lighting, and more. BBB accredited business.(06-13)

Serving our community since 1960! Residential/commercial. Service, repair, installation, thermostats, registers, filters, indoor air quality, and more. BBB accredited business.(06-13)

www.idealsvc.com (619) 583-7963 Lic #348810

www.idealsvc.com (619) 583-7963 Lic #348810

REMODEL

BE SEEN

Circulation: 23,000. Published 12 times in 2013, mailed to all addresses in 91941, delivered to all single family homes in 91942 and at over 150 bulk locations throughout our circulation area of La Mesa, California by Mission Publishing Group, LLC. Classified ads and articles must be submitted by mail, e-mail or dropped off at our business address: 6549 Mission Gorge Rd #199 San Diego, CA 92120.

Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisements or material submitted which are deemed to be objectionable. Publisher’s liability for errors: La Mesa Courier assumes no financial liability for errors nor for omission of copy and upon request will furnish a letter of correction to the advertiser. The Publisher, Mission Publishing Group, LLC., shall not be liable for any error in published advertising unless an advertiser proof is requested in writing 12 days prior to publication date and clearly marked for corrections. If the error is not corrected by the Publisher, the liability, if any, shall not exceed the space occupied for the error. Further, the Publisher shall not be liable for any omission of an advertisement ordered to be published. On written request, Publisher shall reschedule and run the omitted advertisement at the advertiser’s cost. All claims for adjustment must be made in writing within 30 days of the date of publication.

In no case shall the Publisher be liable for any general, special or consequential damages.

Equal Housing Opportunity: Real estate advertising in La Mesa Courier is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.”

La Mesa Courier will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate that is in violation of the law. This is to notify La Mesa Courier readers that all dwellings advertised in La Mesa Courier are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or TTY at 1-800-927-9275.

News and information printed in La Mesa Courier is obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but accuracy on information sent to the paper cannot be guaranteed.

Articles and opinions of writers or letters to the editor that are submitted for publication to the La Mesa Courier are the views of the writers and should not be considered the views of the publisher. Content of paid advertisements is solely the responsibility of the advertiser. © 2013, all rights reserved.

MEMBER

in our Business & Services

DIRECTORY Ideal Plumbing, Heating Air & Electrical

Serving our community since 1960! Kitchens, bathrooms, closets, grab bars, wak-in tubs, and more!. BBB accredited business.(06-13)

www.idealsvc.com (619) 583-7963 Lic #348810

Call Becky at

619.697-2500

California Newspaper Publishers Association

The January issue of the La Mesa Courier will be published Friday, Dec. 27.

The advertising deadline is Tuesday, Dec. 10.

Page 20

LaMesaCourier.com — December 2013

Everyone,

in every price range, deserves the quality of Sotheby’s Realty.

LA MESA HIGHLANDS • $699,000 4646 Garfield St. This luscious Spanish Villa is designed for happy living and an entertainer’s lifestyle with breathtaking landscaping throughout! This 3BR/3.5BA single story home includes an outside pool room, formal living and dining room, 2 car garage, wet bar, open kitchen counter tops, sweeping entry to back yard, and basketball court on one-half acre of paradise.

CHERYL BROWN 619.947.4020

LA MESA VILLAGE/WINDSOR HILLS • $1,295,000 - $1,500,000

LA MESA • $1,999,000

MOUNT HELIX • $499,000-$549,000

Landmark hilltop 5BR/3.5BA estate on scenic acre w/ panoramic views.

The Grable House was built in 1910, believed to be designed by Irving Gill, who worked w/ Frank Lloyd Wright. 2BR/1BA guest house rents for $1600/mo.

4728 La Rueda Drive. 7 bedrooms, 7.5 baths, 8,700 SF on one acre of land.

Just Listed! Over 1 acre of premium Mount Helix property, panoramic views, hardwood floors, beamed ceiling, fireplace, 3BR, 2BA + vintage red horse stable! (Horse does not convey!).

DEANNA ALLEN 619.981.3089

GARRY MAJOR 619.251.4620

LAURA LOTHIAN 619.540.7744

EL CAJON • $405,000

EL CAJON • $290,000-$329,000

Stunning gem in El Cajon. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1,314 square feet. This beautiful remodeled home shows true pride of ownership! Features quartz countertops, maple cabinetry, Jenn Air brand stainless steel appliances, walk-in pantry, new carpet, fireplace, open style, beautiful sparkling pool and much more!

Ideal for both business and living. Zoned for office and residential.

Large backyard with back alley access.

GARRY MAJOR 619.251.4620

MARY LA RUSSA 619.961.9070

PacificSothebysRealty.com

8310 La Mesa Boulevard, La Mesa, CA 91942 • 619.337.1700

©MMVIII Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC.A Realogy Company.All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC.An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Office is Independently Owned And Operated. Cal. BRE # 01767484