January 11, 2013
On the Internet at www.MissionValleyNews.com
Volume VII – Number 1
Courtyard Sale Indicates Market Improvement
Photo by Miguel Rico
A
By Dave Schwab
local hotel industry analyst thinks the recent approximately-$85-million sale of the 317-room Courtyard San Diego Mission Valley/Hotel Circle by Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels to private investment group Carey Watermark Investors could be a sign of things to come. “The market is strong,” said Bob Rauch, president of R.A. Rauch & Associates, Inc. a
Welcoming Students to School By Genevieve A. Suzuki
N
azareth School in Mission Valley wants its students to hang around. What was once a rather forbidding school front was remodeled into a gathering space that invites students to enjoy a sense of community. Since the redesign, which was completed in time for the fall 2012 term, students
Chargers, changing of the guard Page 14
principal with London Group Realty Advisors, referring to the timing of Courtyard Mission Valley’s sale. “It is a trend that we will see a lot of in 2013 because interest rates are so low, and there’s upside ahead in the hotel market.” Rauch said what may have spurred the hotel’s sale, and could presage the sale of other hotels See COURTYARD page 10
now happily meet in the courtyard. “The children are excited about our new community space,” said Dr. Colleen Mauricio, the principal of the private Catholic school serving more than 270 kindergarten through eighth-grade students. “They ask if they can go out to the courtyard to do activities or to read. … The courtyard helps them to expand their classrooms.” The entrance redesign is just one of two phases for Nazareth School. After deciding to expand and update the school auditorium, Nazareth School officials realized they needed to provide an entrance to the area that was more user-friendly and compatible with current ADA regulations. The school hired domusstudio architecture to transform the school entrance from a closed-off area into a more welcoming space. Originally constructed in 1970, the school building sits five feet above the parking lot and was surrounded by 5-footSee Nazareth page 4
Refreshing fare at Luce Bar & Kitchen Page 6
San Diego River Discovery Center Raises $120,000
T
he San Diego River Park Foundation met 2013 with at least one goal accomplished. After launching a drive to raise $60,000 by Dec. 31 to complete design and permitting for the Discovery Center and Grant Park, the foundation not only met its goal within its deadline, but also received a matching $60,000 gift from the Grant family, making the total raised $120,000. The foundation, a community-based grassroots non-profit organization founded in 2001, relies on donations and support from the community for its general operation as well as grants, both public and private. The concept for the Discovery Center is a 7,000-to-8,000-squarefoot facility along the banks of the San Diego River, surrounded by a community and nature-based park. The total project would comprise the 17 acres at Qualcomm Way donated by the Grant family. The facility, or education center, will include a research center, classrooms, educational displays, and community meeting and event space. Three public art projects are included as well as a proposed 100-plus seat outdoor venue, green
Assemblyperson Toni Atkins receives key assignments Page 4
See River page 10
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MissionValleyNews.com — January 11, 2013
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR REGIONAL ACADEMIC DECATHLON The San Diego County Office of Education is seeking adult volunteers to help with the San Diego County Academic Decathlon on Saturday, Feb. 2 at Olympian High School in Chula Vista. The Academic Decathlon enables academically oriented students to enjoy the same sense of competition as athletes. The decathlon’s San Diego Region includes high schools from Sweetwater High School District, San Diego Unified School District, Fallbrook High, and two private schools, St. Augustine and Academy of Our Lady of Peace. Nicole Shina, San Diego County’s Academic Decathlon coordinator says, “This year we anticipate
nearly 130 high school students will compete in this regional competition.” The decathlon, created by Robert Peterson in Orange County in 1968, is a competitive event modeled after the Olympics to stimulate academic achievement and honor “athletes of mind.” The competition provides students the chance to join in an educational forum, which fosters respect for knowledge, cooperation and self-esteem. The Academic Decathlon is San Diego County’s longestrunning academic competition. Both team and individual awards are given in 10 events: seven written tests in music, art, language and literature, mathematics,
economics, and science; and Super Quiz (Social Science); and three communications tests— an interview, an essay, and prepared and impromptu speeches. The final Decathlon event is the Super Quiz, a College-Bowl-type competition. Volunteers are needed for proctoring written tests and judging the students speeches. No previous experience necessary. Volunteers need only be objective. A thorough explanation of volunteer duties and written guidelines will be provided at the orientation session prior to the start of the competition. ♦ If interested in volunteering, call Nicole Shina at (858) 292-3850 or sign up online at www.sdcoe.net/ad.
On a Mission: Where’s the best business lunch in Mission Valley? By Denise Pollard
Mission Valley News ventured into the community to ask, “Where’s the best place to have a business lunch?”
“Gordon Biersch.” Karla Soto Eastlake
“Mimi’s Cafe.” Jay Reiter Hillcrest
“Islands.” Kimberly Giordano Allied Gardens
“Outback Steakhouse.” Sofia Ziebell North Park
MissionValleyNews.com — January 11, 2013
Prevent Burglaries by Taking Proactive Measures By Dave Schwab
When it comes to burglaries, residents, particularly seniors who
may be easier targets because of frail health or diminished capacities, need to take preventative
Page 3 action, such as investing in security measures. Installing door and window locks, improving fencing and adding motion-sensor lighting can dissuade wouldbe burglars to search elsewhere for a mark. There are also a number of simple common-sense things people can do to guard their homes against intrusion. Sometimes it doesn’t involve more than merely becoming more aware or adopting safer behavior patterns, such as keeping doors and windows locked. Because criminals typically seek the path of least resistance in committing crimes of opportunity, the objective of homeowners in guarding against them is to do everything possible to harden their dwellings as targets, make them as difficult as possible to
break into so they’ll be avoided. The first thing seniors and other homeowners should do in attempting to prevent residential burglaries is to keep lines of communication with local police open. “If you’re a (crime) victim, let us know,” said Lt. Paul Rorrison of the San Diego Police Department. “If we don’t know about it, we can’t do anything about it.” SDPD community relations officer Alan Alvarez cautioned homeowners to be wary of door-to-door solicitors. “Don’t answer the door,” he said, adding criminals often employ runaways or homeless youth to case homes and neighborhoods to see which residences have valuables or easy access. Rorrison and Alvarez, who both advise local residents on how to
avoid burglaries, said it’s important for crime victims to document the day and time of a crime incident and get an incident number. It’s also good advice to make sure there are visible addresses on the rear and front of homes to help officers locate crime scenes. Rorrison said many home burglaries happen during the day when residents aren’t expected to be home. “If you have double locks, use them,” advised Alvarez about home security. “Padlock side gates and close garage doors locking all doors leading into homes.” Burglars select targets based on a number of key factors including familiarity with the target; convenience of the location; occupancy; visibility; accessibility; vulnerability or security; and potential rewards. ♦
HEALTHY NEW YEAR FOR PANDA Giant panda cub Xiao Liwu was a very busy boy during a recent weekly exam at the San Diego Zoo. When brought from his den, the rambunctious cub went straight to his toys, climbing headfirst into a doughnut-shaped plastic ring, playing with a ball and frolicking in a tub while chewing bamboo. He quickly indicated, by running off and squirming from his keepers, he’d rather play than be weighed and measured. The cub’s 20th exam showed the 22-week-old is healthy and developing well. He is stronger, more agile, and continues to erupt baby teeth and is mouthing, chewing and teething a bit. The young cub weighed in at 16 pounds and measured just over 30 inches in length from nose to tail tip.
“Xiao Liwu was very active, very strong, and very exploratory during his exam this morning,” said P.K. Robbins, senior veterinarian at the San Diego Zoo. “He is moving about very quickly and exhibiting great confidence in his strength and climbing abilities. At this rate, I think we will see him venturing into more areas of the giant panda habitat very soon.” The San Diego Zoo’s giant pandas are on a research loan from the People’s Republic of China.
As part of this longterm program, the Zoo is also collaborating with the Chinese Academy of Science in studies of behavior, ecology, genetics and conservation of wild pandas living in the Foping Nature Reserve. Only 1,600 giant pandas are believed to exist in the wild, and the species is primarily threatened by habitat loss. San Diego Zoo Global, in conjunction with Chinese panda experts, continues to work on science-based panda conservation programs.♦
Taking a Bite Out of Pit Bull Panic Experts argue nurture over nature regarding dog behavior By Jeremy Ogul
Several pit bull attacks this year have some members of the public, including the media, wondering whether the breed is too dangerous to own. In June, an 8-month-old Lemon Grove boy died after the family dog bit him on the head. The boy lived in an apartment with his mother, her roommate and three dogs, all reported to be pit bulls. The child’s mother, a 27-year-old woman who declined to give her name, told U-T San Diego that the dogs “loved him from the beginning” and were always friendly and well-behaved.
The tragedy in Lemon Grove happened just six months after a Paradise Hills woman succumbed to the injuries she sustained after her neighbor’s dog bit her in her own backyard. Emako Mendoza, 75, was in her own backyard in Paradise Hills when the two dogs got into her yard through a gap in the fence. Doctors amputated Mendoza’s leg and conducted eight surgeries before she died on Dec. 24, 2011. In the latter case, the dogs’ owners, Alba and Carla Cornelio, were arrested and will be prosecuted on manslaughter charges. See Pit page 13
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MissionValleyNews.com — January 11, 2013
Atkins Assigned to Key Committees
Toni Atkins, Assembly Majority Leader
Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins received key committee assignments from Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez. Atkins joined the Joint Legislative Audit Committee, which comprises members of both the Assembly and the Senate and functions as the legislature’s watchdog committee to ensure fiscal responsibility and performance accountability by state programs. Audit requests approved by the committee are assigned to the California Bureau of State Audits (BSA),
which reports its findings back to the committee. Atkins has also been assigned to the Agriculture Committee, which is of key importance to San Diego County. San Diego has the 12th largest county farm economy in the nation, producing an annual value of $5.1 billion. The county is home to more small farms and more part time farmers than any other county in the country. Atkins will continue to serve on the Health, Housing and Community Development, and Veterans Affairs Committees. In addition to her continuing duties as Assembly Majority Floor Leader, she also retains her position as chair of the Assembly Redevelopment Working Group. The legislature reconvened Jan. 7 for a new two-year session. ♦
Photo by Miguel Rico
Nazareth, from page 1 tall retaining walls and guard rails. Domusstudio worked directly with the Sisters of Nazareth, the school administration and landscape architects Deneen Powell Atelier to develop and refine the design. “It was a quick interactive process. We like to say that an architect’s greatest gift is that of vision. We were blessed with the ability to see the space then describe it to everyone else to impart their expertise into the process of refining the details, use and spirit of the space,” said David Pfeifer, domusstudio principal architect. Pfeifer personally appreciated the opportunity to open up the school’s courtyard. “My children have attended the school for over eight years,” Pfeifer said. “The inspiration was finally getting to see the front of the school open up, and creating a welcoming community and gathering space comfortable for all. These are some of the same core values that drive the curriculum at Nazareth and it is inspiring to see the facilities embrace
and reflect these principles.” “As the project progressed, the gem we discovered was the underutilized space,” Pfeifer said. “It was there all along – we just had to uncover it and make better use of it.” The gained space has become the physical heart of the campus. Part of that “found” space was in the form of a wide cement ramp and stark retaining walls leading up to the school. “By replacing the ramp and walls with large, formal steps and tiered walls and planters filled with greenery, we were able to create a welcoming and gracious entry,” Pfeifer said. The walls, made of 4-inch-high units to match the existing brick, were built with integrally colored concrete masonry and set at differing heights which create seating opportunities. “The new courtyard space has given us a wonderful spot to hold special ceremonies as we did on Sept. 11,” said Mauricio. “It also gives our children a safe place to gather before school starts, and in the afternoon, we find many members of our
community sharing the events of the day and planning new activities.” The school now uses the area for regular assemblies during the school day as well as in the evenings for events and fellowship since new lighting was added. The domusstudio plan also reconfigured the ramp, which was not ADA compliant and had been a visual drawback at the school. The new one, now open and accessible for those with disabilities, is situated between the planters so it becomes an element of the entryway. Pfeifer noted that the integrally colored concrete provided a costeffective, durable and attractive solution. The design also included a panel of brick pavers that can be used in the future for donor and memorial opportunities. “Sometimes the best solution is not to add more to a campus, but rather, to reuse what is already there in a more effective and efficient manner,” said Pfeifer. “The ultimate sustainable approach is to do more with less.” Nazareth School administration has noticed a difference since the See Nazareth page 16
Find Boone!
Our publisher has a rather shy English bulldog named Boone. He’s hiding somewhere in this very newspaper. If you find Boone, go to ScoopSanDiego.com, click on the I Found Boone! icon and enter to win a $25 Visa gift card.
Last issue Boone was hiding on Pg 10. Ohhhhh, that Boone!
MissionValleyNews.com — January 11, 2013
MOVERS & SHAKERS
San Diego Business Journal awarded Junior Achievement of San Diego and Imperial Counties president and CEO Joanne Pastula a 2012 Most Admired CEO award in the nonprofits category. The 6th Annual Most Admired CEO Awards was presented to local industry leaders for the achievements at their organizations and community at Paradise Point Resort & Spa on Mission Bay Dec. 6. San Diego Business Journal honored executives in categories such as government, education, family-owned business and more. Pastula has been a leader of the international rapidly growing nonprofit since 1999. Through her leadership at Junior Achievement, which educates and inspires young people to value free enterprise, business and economics to improve the quality of their lives, Pastula has cultivated a dedicated board and highly competent staff. Building on Junior Achievement’s 93-year history of linking real world business concepts with classroom learning, Pastula’s team focuses on bringing JA to the classroom of every child in San Diego and Imperial Counties. Since she became the president of Junior Achievement, Pastula has increased annual revenue from $300,000 to $2 million and expanded the student participation from 15,000 to 50,000 students. Now, over 6,340 volunteers are active in Junior Achievement’s programs in San Diego. In July 2006, under Pastula’s leadership,
Junior Achievement acquired a permanent 23,000 sq. ft building in Mission Valley that is the home for Junior Achievement and the site of JA Biz Town, a life-size city run by JA students. Pastula is active in the community involved in the organizations such as The Ackerman Foundation, Downtown Rotary, Economic Development Corporation, San Diego Grantmakers, Committee of 200, LEAD San Diego, University Club, Vistage International and United Way Vision Council.
Nathan Fletcher Joins Qualcomm
Nathan Fletcher joined Qualcomm as Senior Director of Corporate Development after his term with the California State Assembly ended Dec. 2. “I believe in the power of innovation to improve people’s lives,” said Fletcher. “Qualcomm brings innovation to people across the globe. They are a great community partner and provide good paying jobs for San Diegans. I am proud to join their team and look forward to helping advance these endeavors.” “Nathan Fletcher has tremendous talent, a great mind for business and shares our vision about the potential for technology and innovation,” said Dr. Paul Jacobs, Chairman and CEO of Qualcomm. “We are thrilled to have Nathan join us. His energy, passion and drive will be a great addition at Qualcomm.” As Senior Director of Corporate Development, Fletcher will help develop
Page 5 global strategies for advancing Qualcomm’s mission in multiple areas. This will include wireless health initiatives, mobile education, and the protection of intellectual property. Fletcher will also help promote Qualcomm’s many corporate citizenship and philanthropic initiatives including employee volunteerism and other local and international initiatives under the company’s Corporate Foundation and Wireless Reach program. His position will not involve government relations or lobbying activities. “During my time in public office, I had the opportunity to get to know the culture and the character of Qualcomm. Whether helping female entrepreneurs in Indonesia, assisting disadvantaged communities across America, or creating jobs in San Diego, I have always been impressed with the Qualcomm approach as well as their philosophy and values as an employer,” said Fletcher. “This position gives me the opportunity to become a partner in helping advance their vision.” In addition to his role at Qualcomm, Fletcher plans to remain active in the community and will provide more information regarding other future endeavors in the coming months.
Photo by Daren Scott
San Diego REPertory Theatre Honors and Celebrates Black History Month in 2013 In honor of Black History Month in February 2013, San Diego REP presents productions which celebrate individuals and monumental moments that made an impact in the African American community and the United States. Each production focuses on a specific time period in history and productions will run for 10 weeks between January to March. The first production is Clybourne Park, a comedy about race, class and real estate in America, written by Bruce Norris and directed by Sam Woodhouse, co-founder and artistic director, San Diego REPertory Theatre. “Clybourne Park is the kind of provocative theatre that we love to do at San Diego REP,” said Woodhouse. “It’s audacious and a touch politically incorrect, fully engaged in the American debate about property and civil rights and very, very funny in surprising and astonishing ways.” The winner of the 2012
Tony Award for Best Play, the 2011 Pulitzer Prize, and the 2011 Olivier Award for Best Play, Clybourne Park has jokes flying amidst hidden agendas. Act one of Clybourne Park is set in 1959 in one of the most famous fictional houses in 20th century drama: the dream home of the Younger family in Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun, where a white couple ignites controversy when they sell their bungalow to the area’s first black family. Act two takes place in the same house, but fifty years later with the situation reversed. Gentrification is coming, and it is a white couple who want to buy and demolish the house posing a threat to the balance of the now all black neighborhood. Clybourne Park previews start Jan. 12. Opening night is Jan. 18 on the Lyceum Stage. Performances run through Feb. 10 and tickets are $33 to $52. Student tickets are $18. Discounts are available for seniors/military/ students with I.D. ♦
Catch us online at:
www.MissionValleyNews.com NAI San Diego Hires New Senior VP
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See Movers page 11
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MissionValleyNews.com — January 11, 2013
Bar & Kitchen Serves Up Refreshment By Susan Gibbons-Bullock
Want an outstanding lunch in a restaurant that feels like an open-air pub? Head to Luce Bar & Kitchen. Pronounced “loo-che,” this dining establishment offers fresh, savory fare served by a caring and knowledgeable staff in a relaxing atmosphere – what more could you ask for? Luce is an intimate restaurant constructed of brick and dark wood, with wall-sized windows that completely open up to let in the breeze. With booths, bar-height tables and bar seating, Luce thinks of everything – from a few strategically-placed flat screen TVs to hooks along
the bar at knee height for women to hang their purses. Adding to the ambiance are chalkboards around the restaurant listing drinks, food specials and desserts. Luce’s staff tops it off: Everyone is kind, but if you’re lucky enough to have Josh, you’ll be well rewarded. The lunch menu offers a great variety of creatively prepared selections without being overly extensive, providing delicious fresh choices such as tacos (fish, carnitas or
Luce Bar & Kitchen sandiegoluce.com 1959 Morena Blvd. 92110 San Diego, CA (619) 275-0321
lamb shank), sandwiches (pulled pork and sausage, to name a few), salads and soups. Prices range from $8 for Calamari Fritti or Soup & Salad to $14 for Catch of the Day over Salad. I ordered the Fig & Baby Mixed Green Salad and was overjoyed. On a bed of greens sat candied walnuts and fresh ricotta cheese, surrounded by tender figs and
all tossed with a delicate champagne dressing. It was so fresh I could’ve licked my plate clean. My companion had the Luce Burger: a tender burger on a brioche roll topped with arugula, heirloom tomato, caramelized onions, aged white cheddar cheese and garlic aioli. Served with a side of fries and a serving of garlic dressing for dipping, he devoured every bite – but not before I was able to sneak a couple of lightly-crisped
Hours: Mon-Thu 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fri & Sat, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sun 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
fries. Relishing every bite, my companion was thrilled to see someone finally made a burger on a roll so light and tasty that he was actually able to taste the burger without being overwhelmed by the bun. Of course we saved room for dessert, and thank goodness, because nirvana came in the form of a Pistachio Gelato Sandwich: two chocolate brownie-like “sandwich” halves filled with a creamy pistachio gelato, topped with a few pieces of crunchy candy that tasted like a cross between butterscotch and Golden Grahams. Sharing this dessert, my companion and I fought to finish it – I probably should’ve ordered my own! Luce offers a full bar (mixed drinks, wine and an array of beer), and they said they’ll hopefully have Happy Hour going soon – with cheese and meat boards to go with wine pairings. It’s located at 1959 Morena Blvd., and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. So if you’re looking for a great spot to enjoy fresh food and watch the Coaster cruise by on a cool bay breeze, Luce Bar & Kitchen fits the bill. ♦
MissionValleyNews.com — January 11, 2013
Brings Back Original Menu of returning to our core business, even more. This is especially true as we continue our growth into 2013.”
Sammy’s “Classics”
After launching a new menu last summer, which included removing dishes, updating recipes and adding new items, Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza & Grill has brought back its original menu in response to customer requests. The core business values at Sammy’s have always been focused on customer service and innovation and the company spent the last year making improvements throughout the restaurants, including design remodels and the addition of a full bar and handcrafted cocktails at multiple locations, a new logo and website. The new menu changes were part of the brand’s recent updates.
have been added back to the menu: Lobster Mac ‘n’ Cheese, Thai Chicken Satays, Baba Ghanoush, Crab & Shrimp Dip, Crispy French Fries, Prosciutto Pizza, Five Cheese Pizza, Thai Chicken or Shrimp Pizza, Chinese Chicken Salad and Grilled Chicken & Hummus Wrap. The following items have returned to their original recipes and preparations: Margherita Pizza (tomatoes, garlic and fresh basil), Garlic Chicken and Shrimp Pizza, The Original Chopped Chicken Salad, Chilled Roasted Vegetable Salad, Oak Roasted Salmon Filet, and Tomato Angel Hair Pasta. A few new favorites will be added to Sammy’s original menu, including Japanese Style Chicken Meatballs, Shrimp & Grits and Burrata & Pesto Pizza. ♦ For more information and to view the complete menu, visit www. sammyspizza.com.
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Restaurant Week Returns to Tempt Taste Buds San Diego Restaurant Week, slated for Jan. 13-18, brings the city’s vibrant food scene to life for one week of delicious dining, showcasing the freshest ingredients, most flavorful dishes and tastiest culinary gems that San Diego has to offer. Diners can choose from more than 180 eateries for three-course dinner prix-fixe menus for just $20, $30 or $40 per person, depending on the restaurant. Several restaurants have made lunch an option as well, giving daytime diners the opportunity to feast on
two-course lunch prix-fixe menus for just $10, $15 or $20 per person. Participating in San Diego Restaurant Week is easy – there are no passes to buy, no coupons to carry and no cards to punch, only a quick call to the restaurant of your choice to make reservations to dine out between Jan. 1318. This past September, more than 140,000 people participated in the event and even more are expected in January, so reservations are strongly recommended to make sure you are able to sample your favorite flavors.
San Diego Restaurant Week has also gone high tech with its new app, making it easier than ever to try that chichi restaurant on your list. Now you can get the details on your favorite participating restaurants, compare menus and make reservations from your iPhone or Android. ♦ For more information, to view a complete list of participating locations in San Diego Restaurant Week or to sign up to win 52 Weeks of Dining, please visit SanDiegoRestaurantWeek. com or call (619) 233-5008.
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MissionValleyNews.com — January 11, 2013
New Finds at Fashion Valley
GINA’S Valley Views
By Gina Cord, founder of Mission Valley News
Service to the Community The greatest gift you can give is to give to others. I am very fortunate to be able to serve on the board of the Mission Valley Planning Group, where I have met great and true friends while volunteering for community service. We recently honored former board member Nathaniel Cohen on his 90th birthday with a luncheon at the Trellises Restaurant in the Town & Country Hotel. Nathaniel is retired, but his tireless work for many years will live on in all that he has contributed to this area. Tom Sudberry spent so many years on the board that he was termed-out – his great contributions to the community will also live on forever. And, did you know the jet that Tom flew in the Vietnam War is now a major attraction on the USS Midway Museum downtown? Marco Sessa, senior vice president of Sudberry Properties and project manager of Civita in Mission Valley and a member of the Planning Group is taking on an additional community responsibility as
the chairman of the Building Industries Association. BIA is a membership of about 600 of the top industry companies that not only look after the industry but also, under the BIA Care committee, raises hundreds of thousands of dollar for local charities. Dottie Surdi, chairman of the Planning Group and a commercial real estate agent with Sperry Van Ness, volunteers in addition to every sub-committee that is formed. To give your life new sparkle and excitement in 2013, find a community group where you can volunteer your services and you will find many new friends while giving the community your talents.
Happy Hour in Mission Valley
To get to know your new friends in community service, we are re-introducing a series of Happy Hour Locations in Mission Valley. The best Happy Hour in the area is at P.F. Chang’s in the Fashion
Valley Shopping Mall from Monday through Friday, 3 to 6 p.m. Grab a stool at the bar and order anything from a wide choice of drinks at greatly reduced prices on the Happy Hour menu. My favorite is the Crab Wontons, an order of five crispy wontons served with a very small salad and plum jam for $4.95… Simply delicious! Or, try Lettuce Wraps with your choice of pork, beef or chicken – it’s a meal in itself. There are dozens of selections on the Happy Hour menu and all deliciously low in cost. If our readers offer a Happy Hour in Mission Valley, let us know and we will print one location in each issue. Or, if you have other items of Who’s News and What’s News in the area, send an email to Gina Cord at cordgina@ gmail.com or call (619) 683-2434.
Last year Fashion Valley welcomed several stores, including Joe’s Jeans and Cotton On and its stationery/accessories counterpart, Typo. Joe’s Jeans Inc. opened its tenth California retail store at Fashion Valley in December. The 1,000-squarefoot boutique features the brand’s signature modern, all white interior motif juxtaposed against crystal chandeliers and vintage furniture pieces handpicked by founder Jo Dahan. The Fashion Valley location features the Joe’s lifestyle collection for men, women and children along with exclusive limited edition handbags. Joe’s currently has 29 retail locations across the United States, including major metropolitan cities
such as New York City, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, Atlanta and San Francisco. In addition, the brand’s rapid retail expansion continues with the opening of a thirtieth location later this week. “We are excited to add another premium California location to our retail portfolio. With California being home to our brand, it has always been a strong market for us and we look forward to continuing to grow our presence in trendy, upscale locations throughout the state,” said Marc Crossman, Joe’s Jeans president and CEO. Earlier in the year Fashion Valley welcomed Cotton On, a retail powerhouse known for its globally relevant fashion for men and women at affordable prices. Since its inception in 1991 in Australia, Cotton On has grown to more than 500 stores and 5,500 employees. The original Cotton On offer has expanded to successfully branch into intimates, sleepwear and active wear with Cotton On Body; children’s fashion with Cotton On Kids, footwear with Rubi shoes; and gifts and stationary with Typo. With a significant presence in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia and the United States, Cotton On has a vision to open stores into the thousands in the coming five years. ♦
MissionValleyNews.com — January 11, 2013
Music Notes Jazz Jan. 12, 29 & 26; Feb. 2 & 9. – Saturday Jazz at the Cosmo featuring Bruce Cameron, Mark Augustin , and Ted Williams at the Cosmopolitan Restaurant and Hotel. $5. www. OldTownCosmopolitan.com Jan. 16, 23, & 30 – Wednesday Jazz with Kice Simko and Friends at Riviera Supper Club. Free. RivieraSupperClub.com Jan. 11, 18 & 25; Feb 1 & 8. – Sam Johnson Jazz Duo at Cosmos Coffee Cafe. Free. CosmosCoffeeCafe.com Jan. 12, 19 & 26. Feb. 2 &9. – Saturday Jazz with George and Alan at San Diego Desserts. Free. www. SanDiegoDesserts.net Jan. 16 – Gilbert Castillanos Jazz Jam at Seven Grand. Free. SevenGrandBars.com Jan. 24 – The Soulfires at Winston’s OB. Free. WinstonsOb.com
Classical Jan. 11-13 – Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto featuring Viviane Hagner at Copley Symphony Hall. $20-$96. www. SanDiegoSymphony.org Jan. 15 – Beethoven And Mozart: A Camera Lucida Concert and Conrad Prebys Concert Hall, UCSD. $25. www. SanDiegoSymphony.org Jan. 18-19 – Brian Stokes Mitchell: A City Lights Concert at Copley Symphony Hall, $20-$85. www. SanDiegoSymphony.org Jan. 27 – The Magic of Mozart at Copley Symphony Hall. $15-$25. www. SanDiegoSymphony.org
Feb. 8–10 – Scheherazade at Copley Symphony Hall. $20-$96. www. SanDiegoSymphony.org
Alternative Jan. 12 – Black Market III and Blackwater at The Shakedown SD. $5. www. TheShakedownSd.com Jan. 22 – Earphunk and The Brothers Gow at The Griffin. $8. www. TheGriffinSD.com Jan. 25 – The Heavy Guilt and The Steelwells at Winston’s OB. Price TBD. WinstonsOb.com Jan. 31 – Stevie Harris at The Riviera Supper Club. Free. www. RivieraSupperClub.com. Feb. 22 – The High Rolling Loners at The Riviera Supper Club. Free. www. RivieraSupperClub.com
Pop Jan.11, 18 & 15 – Nathan Weldon Performing at San Diego Desserts. Free. www.SanDiegoDesserts.net Jan. 15, 22, & 29; Feb. 5 – Meagan Flint Band at The Riviera Super Club. Free. www. RivieraSupperClub.com. Jan. 13 – The Yes Team at Brick by Brick. $10 adv/$13 at door. www. BrickbyBrick.com Jan. 18 – The Styletones at Bar Pink. Free. www. BarPink.com Jan. 19 – Get Groovin’ at Pal Joey’s. Free. www. paljoeysonline.com Bands and venues please send your calendar submissions to Jen@ ScoopSanDiego.com.
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Local Music Local Love
with Jen Van Tieghem
Three musicians, two names in under a year, and a debut album named “1” have made the sonic equation of Boy King seem as simple as 1, 2, 3. The trio has taken being robbed of the San Diego Music Award for Best New Artist and being forced to change the band’s name due to a ceaseand-desist order in stride – or should I say strut? Singer Megan Liscomb has more charisma in her pinkie finger than most bands have in their entire ensemble. Her performances exude confidence and passion, as she belts out tunes that blend gritty punk and garage rock. The petite singer makes the most of her tiny frame sometimes gyrating across the stage, other times commanding the attention of the room with her powerful vocals alone. Boy King’s self-recorded album “1” showcases
the talents of all three members in nine rocking tracks. Drummer Adam Eidson’s quick beats and splashing solos give the band’s sound a pulsating energy. Liscomb’s vocals
are reminiscent of grittier Deborah Harry tunes and are equally mesmerizing whether she’s coaxing and cooing on “Honey” or wailing at the apex of “Whoa Is Me.” Guitarist Dustin Lothspeich, who does his own crooning with Old Tiger, uses this project
to show off his chops on an impressive Gibson. “Melts Faces” starts off the album with Lothspeich’s thrashing guitar and sets the tone for the rest of the album. “The Fight” is a highlight for me with each element working together as the song builds to a feverish frenzy at its culmination. Stripped to the basics, Boy King’s music blends jamming guitar solos, powerhouse vocals and a guiding force behind the drum kit. A minimalistic approach with maximum effort put forth by three truly talented individuals. Catch Boy King playing around town and keep up with them on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/ LongLiveBoyKing.♦ Jen Van Tieghem is a staff writer who spends her time dancing like a fool while covering the San Diego music scene in all its glory on SoundsInSanDiego.com. Photo by Cody Thompson
This Month’s Not-To-Miss Sounds in San Diego Jan. 12 The Midnight Pine’s CD release Jan. 24 Old Tiger, River City, and The Midnight Pine at Soda Bar. $5. www. with John Meeks and Pigeon Lord at SodaBarMusic.com JETT Gallery. $7 Jan. 14 Family Wagon, Strange Vine, Bruin, Lee Koch at The Casbah. $5. www.CasbahMusic.com Jan. 20 Gemini Club and Social Club at The Griffin. $8adv/$10 day of show. www.TheGriffinSD.com Jan. 23 Beer Fest featuring The Tilt at Belly Up Tavern. $15 ga / $5 for band only. www.BellyUp.com
Jan. 25 Dead Feather Moon and Blackout Party at The Casbah. $10adv/$12 day of show. www. CasbahMusic.com Feb. 8 Old Tiger at Riviera Supper Club. Free. www.RivieraSupperClub.com Feb. 9 Useless Rhetoric, Network, Social Animal, and Divided Soul at The Ruby Room. $10 suggested donation. www.RubyRoomSD.com.
Page 10 Courtyard, from page 1 in the area, is “very low interest rates right now that has caused investors to purchase these hotels at what I think are very low capitalization rates.” The capitalization (cap) rate is a calculated rate of return on real estate investment based on the expected income that the property will generate based on a formula dividing the income the property will generate (after fixed and variable costs) by the total value of the property. Not knowing Courtyard’s exact cap rate, Rauch noted it is undoubtedly low, meaning a slow return on investment. Nonetheless, Rauch said that hasn’t deterred bigtime investors, factoring in the extremely low interest rates, from snatching prime properties like Courtyard as they become available on the market. “[Investors] paid top dollar,” noted Rauch adding, “Wall Street investors who are paying
MissionValleyNews.com — January 11, 2013 a fairly modest dividend don’t need big returns [on investments] like you or I would if we were to buy that hotel raising money from investors who would need larger returns to minimize the risk of their investment.” Managing director John Strauss and senior vice presidents James Stockdale and Samantha Fisher led the Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels team on the Courtyard transaction. “The Courtyard San Diego Mission Valley’s strong brand affiliation and robust performance, coupled with San Diego’s strong and improving fundamentals, made this an exceptional opportunity,” said Strauss. “We’re seeing positive momentum in yearover-year fundamentals that is creating a robust transaction environment in the San Diego hotel market. Year-to-date through October 2012, the market witnessed an 8.8 percent increase in revenue per available room (RevPAR) buoyed by a 5.0 percent rise in
Photo by Miguel Rico
occupancy over 2011 levels.” Rauch said there are a variety of reasons why the purchase of Courtyard, one of more than 30 hotels in the immediate area of Hotel Circle in Mission Valley, is a wise move. “Mission Valley is convenient, it is near downtown, it is on four freeways – I-5, I-8 I-805 and
SR 163,” Rauch said. “It is modestly priced and has a wide variety of offerings, including every type of motel and hotel from budget to luxury, as well as full-service hotels with convention centers, ballrooms and meeting space.” The Courtyard Mission Valley property includes approximately 7,000 square feet of meeting
River, from page 10 event space, and nature trails. Once the final design is completed, the total construction cost will be announced and fundraising will be initiated. It is anticipated that $4.5 million will be needed to complete construction. Additionally, a $2.5 million operating reserve fund will be established. The designs for both the center and the park will enable the foundation to apply for permits. “This is a major milestone,” said foundation executive director Rob Hutsel. “What a way to end an incredible year.” The foundation’s current funding priorities are the Land Acquisition Reserve Fund and Phase 2 of the Boulder Creek Acquisition. The Reserve Fund is used to secure critical land acquisition opportunities as they
space, a Bistro Café restaurant with Starbucks espresso bar plus a lounge, a 24-hour market, a business center, a fitness center and an outdoor pool. The property is also near many of San Diego’s most popular tourist attractions including the San Diego Zoo, Old Town San Diego, Sea World and the area’s See COURTYARD page 16
Pet of the Month
become available and was what enabled the foundation to purchase the 11-acre property on Boulder Creek. Sudberry Properties, Hazard Center and Sempra Energy Foundation are founding donors for the Discovery Center. ♦ Donations toward the project are still being accepted. Call (619) 2977380 to make a credit card donation by phone; send a check to SDRPF, P.O. Box 80126, San Diego, CA 92138, or go to sandiegoriver.org/ donate.php.
Gunner is a Softcoated Wheaten Terrier. He was adopted about less than three years ago from a rescue. “He is the sweetest dog and we are so happy to have him in our family,” said his adoptive mom, Carol Yubeta, a San Carlos resident. Do you think your pet deserves top billing? Submit your photos and a brief description to gen@ missionvalleynews.com.
MissionValleyNews.com — January 11, 2013 Movers, from page 5 brokerage services to his clients, DeRoche will be responsible for sales management and recruiting, as well as growing property management accounts countywide. “We are pleased that Dave will be part of our team. His experience and extensive knowledge will be a great asset to NAI San Diego” said president Marten Barry, Jr. “I am very excited to join the NAI San Diego family. I look forward to growing the NAI brand in San Diego and building on the success of the existing team,” said DeRoche. Prior to joining NAI San Diego, DeRoche was a Senior Vice President with SENTRE Partners where he focused on Class A office leasing in downtown San Diego and suburban markets. In his 16 years at SENTRE Partners, David completed many notable lease transactions and developed a solid reputation within the brokerage community. DeRoche started his commercial real estate career with Cushman Realty Corporation serving corporate clients in San Diego and Arizona. DeRoche is a proud graduate of the University of San Diego and is a licensed real estate broker in the State of California.
Heckman worked at San Diego Audubon Society after moving from Washington, where she worked with REI.
Jenn Frey is the new Program Associate and will be working as part of the Healthy River, Healthy Communities Team. She hit the ground running and has already been organizing River Rescue events and community river cleanups. She graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in Soil and Water Science and a minor in Zoology, and relocated to San Diego less than a year ago.
New Faces at San Diego River Park Foundation
Danielle Heckman is the new Volunteer Services Coordinator for the San Diego River Park Foundation. She will be heading up volunteer recruitment and training as well as our all important celebration of volunteer accomplishments.
Shelsea Ochoa is the new Community and Events Associate. She will be focusing her efforts in Mission Valley as well as helping us further the vision of the popular San Diego River Days. Ochoa spent three years touring with the international nonprofit, Up With People, sparking volunteer-oriented action in communities in 15 countries around the world. In July 2012 she returned home desiring to get involved at the local grassroots level. ♦ Know a Mover & Shaker in Mission Valley? Send information to editor@ missionvalleynews.com
Page 11
Preparing for Your 2013 Taxes Now is the time when people begin to think about peace, generosity – and taxes? While it may seem to be much too early to worry about filing your tax return, the end of the year and the beginning of the next is a great time to get your records in order and take other steps that will minimize the hassles when tax time does roll around. It’s also often your last chance to take advantage of deductions or other taxsaving opportunities for the year. The California Society of CPAs (calcpa. org) provides this advice on getting a head start.
Get an Update
There are some dramatic tax changes set to take place in 2013, even if Congress does not act before the end of the year. In some cases, we may not know until very late which of these changes will occur. If you’re not
sure what impact the tax uncertainty may have on your own taxes – or on your small business, if you own one – it’s a good idea to get informed about what’s on the horizon and what it may mean to you. Your CPA can fill you in on the details and provide insights on any steps you should
ensure that your return is accurate and that you are able to take all the deductions or credits for which you qualify. It can also make it easier for your CPA to offer tax planning advice that can help you minimize your taxes now and in the future. If you’re not sure what you’ll need, ask your CPA for details.
Safeguard Your Information take.
Set Your Records Straight
No matter what tax laws may affect you, it’s always important to approach your tax return preparation with clear and complete records of your income and relevant expenses for the past year. That means getting your receipts and document out of the shoe boxes and organized. Having comprehensive documentation can
If you lose your financial records due to disaster or theft, would you be able to replace or reproduce them? If possible, try to keep electronic backup of all important documents, including past year tax returns and bank statements. Also consider storing important documents in off-site storage, such as a bank safety deposit box. See Taxes page 15
Page 12
MissionValleyNews.com — January 11, 2013
RENT SENSE
GAME DAY
in Mission Valley
The playoffs are getting serious. Which two teams will make the 47th Super Bowl in New Orleans Feb. 3 is anyone’s guess, but you can be sure there are a lot of disappointed fantasy football owners going into February. Who’d have thought there’d be three rookie quarterbacks in first round of the playoffs? Oh well… There’s always next season!
LONGHORN 6519 Mission Gorge Road $2.75 Bloody Marys, $2.50 16oz draft Bud and Bud Light and $2.00 glass of champagne and $2.25 Mimosas all day. .....................................................................
ISLANDS 2441 Fenton Parkway
Football fans! Every Monday and Thursday at Islands Restaurants, cheer on your favorite NFL team with an extended Happy Hour! Islands offers fun tropical drinks, handcrafted beers and appetizers, including Beachside Sliders, Fresh Cut Island Fries and more – all under $5! Guests also can visit Islands all day on Sunday for a touchdown of a deal – Islands is offering $3.95 Bloody Marys, $3.95 Islands Beers, $2.95 Coors Light and $7.05 Wings all day in the bar!
RANDY JONES
ALL-AMERICAN SPORTS GRILL 7510 Hazard Center Drive • 26 TVs
Padres • Aztecs • Chargers Catch all the Games!
Best sports viewing in San Diego MLB, NFL, NCAA, UFC, NBA - We show them all! Where sports meets great food, brew and fun
Hazard Center, Mission Valley 619-296-9600 www.rjgrill.com
OFFSHORE TAVERN & GRILL
•
2253 Morena Blvd. 30 TVs Open Sat & Sun 9 a.m. Breakfast till noon Lots of 49ers fans
•
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CRAZEE BURGER •
2415 San Diego Ave. 5 TVs $2.99 Spaten on tap on football Sundays. Prost! Great food and drink in the heart of Old Town
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TILTED KILT PUB & EATERY
Mission Valley Shopping Center • 30 TVS Breakfast Menu 8 to 11 a.m. .....................................................................
OGGI’S
2245 Fenton Parkway #101 • 35 TVs Breakfast 9 a.m. to noon .....................................................................
JT’s
5821 Mission Gorge Road • 25 TVs Every game going on!
By Neil Fjellestad and Chris DeMarco
Our business for the last four decades has been advising independent real estate investors, acquiring rental property with potential to fulfill their designated strategy and providing complete management to ensure that potential is realized. It continues to be our experience that real estate investor can be divided into several types: situational, speculative and strategic. Let us explain.
Situational Investors
Situational investors would not choose to become rental owners if their circumstances did not require it. • Market conditions often don’t allow a home owner to sell their property profitably when they are motivated to do so. • Perhaps their employment relocated them leaving a property unable to sell but mortgages to pay.
• Perhaps a buyer’s market makes it favorable to buy another next residence but not a good time to sell their unwanted real estate. • Perhaps another family situation (divorce, death or a spouse or inheritance from parents) has put them in the position of rental owners. • Perhaps current situations call for the rental of a property that at some future date they want to occupy. In most of these situations the owner will remain a rental owner only until their situation changes.
Speculative Owners
Speculative owners, developers and real estate entrepreneurs are a special breed of situational investors. Owning real estate is only a means to a short-term end for the speculative investor until building it out, fixing it up and selling to an enduser. If capital resources
remain tied up in property, turning it into a rental is a last resort because a tenant is in the way of getting capital back and working. Real estate is actually inventory to the speculator.
Strategic Investors
Strategic investors acquire, own and operate real estate as rental property on purpose. They have established financial goals and measured investment alternatives to reach these goals. They recognize rental ownership as the surest method to build wealth and reliable cash flow for their retirement. They like the security and flexibility of independent real estate ownerships while relying upon the comprehensive real estate advisory services and complete property management. Strategic investors acquire well located real estate, keep it well maintained and managed, pay off the loans and retire on the rising rental income.♦
Volunteer for SpringFest “Uncle Sam Wants YOU!!” This is a phrase young and old remember. This time around, however, it isn’t Uncle Sam, it’s your community. SpringFest is just one of a few events for the Navajo area and offers residents and businesses a chance to really get involved with their community. SpringFest relies on volunteers to help with its production. Its coordinators are looking for people to help manage the event, which is scheduled this year for May 17-18. There are a few chair positions available as well.
Requirements are simple. Once a month meetings begin in January and end in May. Responsibilities and time spent will depend upon which area you chose to assist. Without more volunteers and sponsorships, these events can and will disappear. Talk to the people in the neighborhood. A lot of your neighbors may have helped in the past and can tell you what a great sense of accomplishment, pride, and a feeling of belonging in the community. Ask your
neighbors to join you in your effort to help SpringFest. The more friends—the better! Find out what a pleasure it is working with your community team by stepping into the limelight to bring a great event to fruition.♦ For more information, call Sherry Kelly at (619) 583-5822.
MissionValleyNews.com — January 11, 2013
Page 13 Pit, from page 3
Mission Valley Library Events OASIS Class: Happy Feet Jan. 14, 1 to 3 p.m.
A class with certified reflexologists Bobbi and Muff Warren. Discover how your feet are connected to your well being. The ancient art of reflexology is demonstrated in this popular class. By using pressure to certain areas of the feet and hands, we can make a connection to organs, glands and other vital parts of the whole body bringing blood supply and oxygen to these parts.
Film: Dark Secrets – Mysteries of the Soul Jan. 23, 6 to 7 p.m. Every month the library will screen a classic film for its “Dark Secrets” series. Each screening will be followed by discussion lead by SDPL film expert Ralph DeLauro. Please call the Mission Valley Library at (858) 5735007 for exact titles.
Author Talk: Chasing A Dream in the Galapagos Jan. 23, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Author Bette Pegas will discuss her book “Chasing A Dream in the Galapagos.”
In response to these deaths, as well as numerous other reports of bites and attacks that were not fatal, many local residents are calling for legislation that would ban or euthanize dogs of the pit bull breed. “The difference between a poodle snapping and a pit bull snapping are two different things,” wrote Eric Causley in a comment on an article about the Mendoza attack on utsandiego.com. “A poodle growls and snaps, may draw blood. The pit bull snaps and doesn’t stop till it’s ripped apart a person or another dog. Their strength and ruthlessness once they snap is what makes them dangerous.” Animal experts, however, caution that singling out pit bulls for punishment would be a misinformed, ineffective approach toward keeping San Diegans safe. Dan DeSousa, deputy director of the Department of Animal Services for the County of San Diego, pointed out that larger dogs will typically be able to cause more serious injuries, whether the dog is a pit bull or something else, such as a German Shepherd or Rottweiler. A total of 2,856 dog bites were reported to the Department of Animal Services between July 2011 and June 2012. Of that number, 400 were attributed to pit bulls, 211 were attributed to German Shepherds, 195
were attributed to Labrador Retrievers and 171 to Chihuahuas. DeSousa said those numbers should be kept in perspective. “Any such numbers must be viewed with the understanding that we simply do not know how many dogs there are in our community,” DeSousa said. “Therefore, we cannot say that one breed bites more often than another as we do not know the percentage of each dog in the community.” Though we hear most often about pit bull attacks in the news, this may be due to media bias, according to DeSousa. “While we respond to dog bites on a daily basis, the only ones that the media ever expresses an interest in covering are those from pit bulls,” he said. “This bias tends to skew the public’s perception that only pit bulls bite.” The National Canine Research Council points out that it is difficult to determine a dog’s breed without having direct knowledge of the dog’s genetic origins. “Very often people disagree as to what the breed is in a mixed-breed dog, and most often they’re not naming the breed that is identified in the DNA,” said Victoria Voith, a veterinary researcher at the Western University of Health Sciences, in a recorded interview distributed by the NCRC.
It’s Not Magic, It’s Science! Jan. 31, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. See magic tricks become science tricks in this special show featuring Full Spectrum Entertainment! Kids will think they will learn magic but in fact they will be learning science.
Project Debt Relief Seminar Feb. 5, 6 to 7 p.m. Attorney Mark L. Miller presents a free seminar about debt including credit cards, short sales, foreclosures and alternatives to bankruptcy.
GET INVOLVED! The Mission Valley Planning Group meets at the Mission Valley Library on the first Wednesday of every month at noon. This is a public forum and your chance to voice your opinion. No decisions get to the city council without going through the Mission Valley Planning Group first. The meeting is held in the community room and is accessed from the outside patio on the North side of the building.
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Mission Publishing Group, LLC Jim Madaffer, ext. 122 Jim@MissionTimesCourier.com
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Circulation: 15,000. Published 12 times in 2012 and delivered throughout our circulation area of Mission Valley, San Diego, 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 Road #199, San Diego 92120. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisements or material submitted which are deemed to be objectionable. Publisher’s liability for errors: Mission Valley News & Views 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.
Regardless of a dog’s breed, proper training and socialization is critical to ensuring that a dog is comfortable and wellbehaved around humans and other animals. Jessica Wheatcraft, a certified professional dog trainer with Whole Dog Training in San Diego, said the aggressive dogs she has worked with almost always share the same environmental, rather than genetic, characteristics. “A lot of those dogs did not receive any socialization as puppies,” Wheatcraft said. “They did not have a good start. They may have been abandoned, or they have a lot of health issues that weren’t addressed. A lot of times there’s some sort of neglect.” Backyard breeders, whether they’re breeding pit bulls or Chihuahuas, often don’t understand how the early social experiences in a puppy’s life can impact its temperament later in life, Wheatcraft said. A puppy that has been kept in a garage for the first three months of its life will likely respond with fear and aggression if it is suddenly introduced to a new environment like a dog park or children, she said. Wheatcraft said families adopting a dog of unknown origin should take time to get to know the individual dog and its temperament before accepting it and bringing it home, rather than simply relying on the stated breed or the appearance of the dog. “I have seen tons of pit bulls that have fantastic dog skills, and I’ve seen golden retrievers that have real aggression issues,” Wheatcraft said. ♦
ScoopSanDiego.com 6549 Mission Gorge Road #199 San Diego, CA 92120 • 619.283.9747 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jen Van Tieghem • Gina Cord • Susan Gibbons-Bullock
OUR NEXT ISSUE
The next issue of the Mission Valley News comes out Friday, Feb. 8. The advertising deadline is Thursday, Jan. 22.
Equal Housing Opportunity: Real estate advertising in Mission Valley News 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.” Mission Valley News & Views will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate that is in violation of the law. This is to notify Mission Valley News readers that all dwellings advertised in Mission Valley News 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 Mission Valley News 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 Mission Valley News 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. © 2007–2013, all rights reserved.
Page 14
MissionValleyNews.com — January 11, 2013
Change for Chargers in 2013 Whether it was frustration at missing the playoffs for three years or a response to fans clamoring for change, San Diego Chargers president Dean Spanos announced Dec. 31 that general manager A.J. Smith and head coach Norv Turner will not be back in 2013. “I thank A.J. and Norv for the determination and integrity they brought to the Chargers each and every day,” said Spanos. “Both Norv and A.J. are consummate NFL professionals, and they understand that in this league, the bottom-line is winning. My only goal is the Super Bowl, and that is why I have decided to move in a new direction with both our head coach and general manager positions. I am committed to our great fans, and we will do whatever we possibly can to achieve that goal.” For their part, the Chargers gave Turner a standing ovation at his last team meeting. “It just happened and it’s much deserved,” said center Nick Hardwick. “We have the utmost respect for him. He’s a great, great man and through all the ups and downs, he stayed the exact same. He is who he is and he’s not going to change no matter what’s going on around him. He treats all the guys with the utmost respect. It’s been great to learn from him. You have to stay even and that’s how he approaches life, staying even and being ready to work while pushing forward.” “Everyone has a lot of love and respect for Norv,” said defensive tackle Antonio Garay. “I think that the fans didn’t always see his compassion and love for the game. He was a very big competitor and he gave us some of the most valuable speeches this year, especially when things were down. That’s exactly the type of person he is. When things got bad, he picked it up and led this team.” Spanos told Chargers.com
it was a difficult decision. “But we’re three years now out of the playoffs,” he said. “Our goal has always been to win a world championship, and I think at this particular time we need to go in a different direction.”
Smith joined the Chargers as assistant general manager in 2001 before becoming general manager in 2003 following the passing of John Butler. During his 10 seasons, the team won five AFC West Division titles (2004, ‘06-09). Only five teams won more games than the Chargers during the past 10 seasons. The Chargers’ 98 wins (playoffs included) during Smith’s tenure are the most by the team during any general manager’s tenure in San Diego. Prior to the 2012 season, Smith had acquired 15 players who went on to earn Pro Bowl recognition, most in the NFL during his tenure.
Turner produced an overall record of 59-43 (.578 percent) with the Chargers, including 5640 (.583 percent) during the regular season. His overall record with the Chargers against the AFC West was 25-11, including
9-3 versus Oakland and Kansas City, and a 7-5 record against Denver. The Chargers won three division titles and had three second place finishes in the AFC West under Turner (2007-12). That includes an appearance in the 2007 AFC Championship Game. Turner is tied with Don Coryell and Bobby Ross for the most playoff wins in team history (three). Turner’s regular-season record in San Diego after October 31 was 36-17, including 24-5 in December and January. “Right now we’re putting together a list obviously of candidates for the general manager position as well as the coaching position,” Spanos told Chargers.com. “A lot of these candidates right now are with teams that are in the playoffs, so we have to submit consent forms and receive permission from those teams for interviews. So until we receive permission to interview some of these candidates, we’re not going to know exactly what the procedure will be going forward.” Spanos said he’s looking for good leadership qualities and experience. “I think that’s going to play itself out obviously because you can hire an experienced coach or you can hire a young coach that’s coming up that’s maybe a coordinator right now,” he said. “So until we get into the process and start looking at each individual coach, it’s difficult to say. So obviously you want someone who is going to win and get you into the Super Bowl.” Among rumors circulating about possible replacements, ESPN reported interest in former Chicago Bears’ coach Lovie Smith. At publication, however, no decision had been made regarding either a new San Diego Chargers head coach or general manager. ♦
Samson and Delilah, Photo by Ken Howard, 2007.
San Diego Opera’s 2013 Season Continues with Samson and Delilah San Diego Opera’s 48th International Season continues Feb. 16 with Camille SaintSaëns’ biblical drama Samson and Delilah. Last seen in San Diego in 2007, the North County Times called this production of Samson and Delilah “…one of the most memorable San Diego Opera productions in the past decade [with] stunning and gargantuan sets, vivid lighting, gorgeous costumes, an erotic ballet and a seeming cast of thousands...” These performances mark the important Company debut of Bulgarian mezzo-soprano Nadia Krasteva as Delilah. Returning to reprise his signature role from the 2007 production is American tenor Clifton Forbis as Samson. Also making Company debuts are Icelandic baritone Tómas Tómasson as the High Priest of Dagon and American bass Gregory Reinhart as the Old Hebrew. Returning to round out the cast is Russian bass Mikhail Svetlov as Abimelech, American tenor Greg Fedderly as the Philistine’s Messenger, American tenor Doug Jones as the First Philistine and American bass-baritone Scott Sikon as the Second Philistine. San Diego Opera’s resident conductor Karen Keltner conducts the opera and director Lesley Koenig returns to stage the drama. Performed in French with English translations above the stage, Samson
and Delilah was last performed by San Diego Opera in 2007. Based on the biblical tale, the opera tells the story of the Hebrew warrior Samson as he rallies the Israelites to revolt against the Philistines who have enslaved them. At the urging of the High Priest of Dagon, Delilah seduces Samson and cuts of his hair, the source of Samson’s superhuman strength. Captured by the Philistines, Samson calls down the might of God in a climatic and tragic ending. The sets and costumes of Samson and Delilah are owned by San Francisco Opera. The sets were designed by Douglas Schmidt and the costumes were designed by Carrie Robbins. The lighting designer is Gary Marder. The choreographer is Kenneth von Heidecke. Samson and Delilah was composed by Camille Saint-Saëns with libretto by Ferdinand Lemaire and is based on Judges 14-16 from the Bible. Samson and Delilah had its world premiere at the Hoftheatre in Weimar, Germany Dec. 2, 1877. These performances will mark only the second time this opera has been performed with the Company with the other performances occurring in 2007. ♦ Samson and Delilah will have a live radio broadcast Feb. 16, 2013 at 7 p.m. on KPBS radio, 89.5 FM (97.7 FM Calexico) and online at www.kpbs.org.
MissionValleyNews.com — January 11, 2013
Page 15 Taxes, from page 11
Take those Last-Minute Deductions
Keep on
Monster Truckin’ For one day only, fans will witness the world’s best monster trucks battle it out in the ultimate event of intense speed, racing and destruction as Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam returns to San Diego Jan. 19. Sixteen massive trucks will be part of the dirtflying, car-crushin’ action at Qualcomm Stadium, including World Finals champion powerhouses Grave Digger and Max-D (celebrating the truck’s 10th Anniversary of a “decade of destruction”) plus the San Diego debut appearances of Captain’s Curse and Time Flys along with the all-new 2013 season truck El Diablo (named by the fans in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month). Other fan-favorites include Team Hot Wheels Firestorm,
Monster Energy, Lucas Oil Crusader, Monster Mutt Dalmatian, King Krunch, Big Kahuna, Detour, Devastator, Terminator, and Obsession. In addition to the world-class racing and freestyle competition action, die-hard fans can come to the stadium early on Saturday to enjoy the Party in the Pits pre-show experience, which gives fans unparalleled access to view their favorite trucks up-close, meet the star drivers for autographs and take photos. Free Pit Passes can be picked up at participating San Diego County Ford Dealers while supplies last. One of the most popular touring family entertainment sporting events in the world, the Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam is a high-
flying, car-crushing explosive event of demolition, speed, power and unbelievable stunts with the world’s best monster trucks and drivers whose skills provide an awesome spectacle of “rockand-roar” that will bring fans to their feet cheering for more. ♦ The Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam will be at Qualcomm Stadium, 9449 Friars Road, San Diego, Jan. 19 at 7 p.m. Advance ticket prices range from $12, $25 and $30. Total Access Passes are available for $90 each. All seats are reserved and tickets are available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 and at the Qualcomm Stadium Box Office.
Have you contributed the maximum allowed annual amount to an individual retirement account? Although you might not qualify for a deduction on your tax return, you generally have until April 15, 2013, to add to your account pre-taxes. If you’ve been meaning to set up a tax-advantaged college savings plan, or add more to an existing plan, you often have until year-end to get a state tax deduction or credit for a contribution this year. Additionally, you should act now to support your favorite charity – donating gives you the chance to do good and get a deduction for this year’s return. Your CPA can help you determine what deductions you are eligible for and explain what steps to take now to maximize your opportunities.
Simplify with Social Media
Once you’ve filed your return, how can you track
what’s become of your tax refund? There’s an app for that. IRS2Go is an Internal Revenue Service smartphone application that lets taxpayers check on their status of their tax refund and obtain helpful tax information. The Service recently added features that connect you to the IRS YouTube channel and the latest IRS news and enable you to access your tax records. Check into this and other free applications now that can help make tax time easier next year.
Consult Your Local CPA
Whether you’re concerned about tax considerations or any other financial issue, remember that your local CPA can help. Turn to him or her with all your financial questions. ♦ The Money Management columns are a joint effort of the AICPA and the California Society of CPAs as part of the profession’s nationwide 360 Degrees of Financial Literacy program. For podcasts with more financial tips, visit www.calcpa. org/Content/community/ financialempowerment.aspx.
Page 16 Courtyard, from page 10 numerous beaches. Rauch said statistics for Hotel Circle’s 30-plus hotels reveals the industry in the area, as well as those for the entire region, has rebounded nicely from the recession. “Occupancy rates in Mission Valley are in the 70 percent range, which is in line with San Diego in general,” he said. There are a couple of other factors working in San Diego’s, and Mission Valley’s, favor in terms of why the region remains an attractive hotel destination for both business and leisure travelers. “It’s got a growing biotech, biomed and communications tech sectors,” said Rauch. “There are very difficult barriers to hotel entry in the region. It’s not easy to build hotels here along the coast.” Though the average nightly hotel rate in Mission Valley exceeds $100, Rauch added that “is not so much that it breaks the bank of the traveling public.” The Courtyard property
MissionValleyNews.com — January 11, 2013 was also redeveloped prior to its recent sale. As part of its conversion to a Courtyard Marriott in 2008, the property underwent a comprehensive renovation, including upgrades to the guestrooms, lobby and back of the house. Courtyard recently was recognized with Marriott International’s Conversion Excellence Award. Evolution Hospitality, the management team responsible for the hotel since its opening, will continue to manage the property for new owners Carey Watermark Investors. One of the principals in Courtyard’s new ownership group is Michael Medzigian, chairman and managing partner of real estate investment management firm Watermark Capital Partners, LLC, a publicly registered Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT). Rauch said he’s familiar with Medzigian, who he noted is a seasoned investor in the real estate arena. “He’s been around many years and he’s very well
known in hospitality capital markets,” he said. “I do believe he paid top dollar (for Courtyard), but I don’t believe he overpaid.” Rauch noted savvy investors like Medzigian buy when they know “the market will improve.” And though Courtyard was purchased by Medzigian with a low cap rate, which Rauch said “will return barely 5 percent in its first year,” Rauch believes the investment in the long haul is a good one because “Marriott Courtyard is as good a brand as any in the market.” Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels, which arranged the $85 Million Sale of Courtyard San Diego Mission Valley, is a global real estate services firm worth more than $30 billion focused exclusively on hotels & hospitality. In the last five years, the firm has completed nearly 4,000 advisory and valuation assignments and more sale, purchase and financing transactions than any other hotels real estate firm in the world. ♦
Nazareth, from page 4 redesign. “It has made a significant difference in the way we start our day and how we are beginning to plan for special events,” Mauricio said. “The entrance to our school is more attractive and welcoming. It offers us opportunities to share community activities in a warmer and safer environment.” Before school, parents and their children gather in the courtyard and are able to visit and start their day in a lovely and safe environment, according to Mauricio. “Several parents have remarked that they did not realize how much area was underutilized until the courtyard was created.” Pfeifer said more schools should follow Nazareth’s example. “I think every school should take a ‘no holds barred’ look at their facilities and ask themselves, ‘Are these facilities optimized to support learning?’ If not, they should consider renovation. It
may manifest in new facilities, additions or renovations; have an open mind,” he said. “In the case of this project, it was not a matter of changing an already efficient and serviceable facility; it was a matter of removing some walls and railings to re-capture some underutilized space to create a physical heart for this campus,” said Pfeifer. “It transformed and strengthened the community of Nazareth. It does not have to be expensive, just thoughtful and always mindful in supporting and reinforcing the foundation of learning. I will often passively sit at the perimeter of the courtyard and watch with a camouflaged smile as the children gather busily before school with their parents in social circles, often greeted by both administration and staff. At Nazareth School San Diego, the completed project has exceeded our expectations.” ♦