Mission Valley News - May 2011

May 2011

On the Internet at www.MissionValleyNews.com

INSIDE Zip 92108: Who’s Your

THIS ISSUE Neighbor?

Volume V – Number 5

by Elizabeth A. Berg

Explore Mission Trails Day on May 21, 2011

See page 3

Latest IMAX® documentary ‘Born to be Wild’ opens at Reuben H. Fleet Center on May 13

See page 13

A passion for pastry: If it’s chocolaty and gooey, she loves to make it!

See Page 8

Calling all Mission Valley residents: do you know your neighbor? There are 21,799 people who call Mission Valley home, according to the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG). However, most residents don’t know much about the person next door. You may notice a few details – general age (probably 30s), employed (most likely), male or female (chances are equal), single (most likely), with children (unlikely), and whether they have a dog that needs to be walked. You and your neighbor probably have a few things in common: you appreciate the proximity to shopping malls, fitness centers, the trolley line, movie theaters and a choice of 12 coffee establishments. What else do you and your neighbor have in common?

In Mission Valley, your neighbor is… a 28-year-old man studying in a local coffeehouse; a 30-year-old mom bouncing her 10-month-old daughter as she prepares to visit a friend’s pool; a 31-year-old man who decided to leave his 60- to 80-hour workweek; and a clean-shaven 37-year-old man who reads Shakespeare just steps away from the streets where he lives. According to the SANDAG, the 2010 Census, and Onboard Informatics (used for real estate), residents of Mission Valley are: Thirty-something. Seventy percent of the population is between the ages of 30-39, with the highest concentration 35-39.

Professionals. The median household income in 2009 was $54,586.

Not raising a child. Ninety percent of Mission Valley households do not have children. If you do see children, they are likely to be between 0-4 years of age.

Living in a non-family or multi-family household. Less than 10 percent of residents in 92108 reside in a single family housing unit. Most live in one of the 39 multi-unit dwellings.

Educated. Ninety percent of residents have some college level education; about 40 percent have a bachelor’s degree and about 20 percent have a master’s degree.

Single. About 70 percent of MV residents are single – mostly because they have never married.

Cosmopolitan. MV residents said they chose to live in Mission Valley for its proximity to shops, movies, the trolley, the stadium, restaurants, coffee shops, the library and work.

Living in a new home. Although Mission Valley is home to San Diego’s oldest dwelling – the Mission San Diego de Alcala, built in 1774 – most condos and apartments were built between 1999-2006.

Careful to lock their doors. MV has higher crime rates than other nearby neighborhoods with an especially high risk of automotive theft, which is quadruple the national average. Other crimes that are double the national average include robbery, assault, and property crime.

Diverse. The ethnic composition of Mission Valley reflects San Diego’s population with projections that show increasing diversity over the next 40 See 92108, page 5

20-TON TREE PLANTED AT CIVITA IN MISSION VALLEY ON ARBOR DAY Ground broken on first phase of master-planned community It’s not often that a 30-foot-wide, 20-ton, three-story-high tree is seen cruising south on Interstate 5 toward San Diego, but that is exactly what happened in late April. Shortly before Arbor Day, a special flat-bed truck with CHP escort transported a 30-year-old Moreton Bay Fig from Camarillo to Mission Valley, to its new home in Civita.

Executives of Sudberry Properties, developer of Civita, civic officials and development team members planted the tree on Arbor Day, April 29, the first in the 230-acre mixed-use infill development that is turning a 70-year-old quarry into a walkable master-planned community.

At the time of the tree-planting, ground was also broken for Circa 37, an apartment community which will be located in the southwest corner of Civita.

Circa 37 is named after the year the quarry was first mined. To be built over the next 18 months on 10.5 acres, Circa 37 will have 306 units with various one, two and threebedroom floor plans. It will feature classic architecture with an urban style, a resortlike pool area and amenities. First move-in See Tree, page 4

SAN DIEGO RIVERFEST AT QUALCOMM STADIUM, MAY 15 Retire and live on $800 per month, while enjoying the beauty of Baja Sur

See Page 12

NEWS TIPS (619) 283-9747 x121 Editor@MissionValleyNews.com

ADVERTISE WITH US (619) 283-9747 x128 Sales@MissionValleyNews.com

“RiverFest: A Celebration of the San Diego River Trail and Parks” opens Sunday, May 15, at 10 a.m., at the Qualcomm Stadium Practice Field. Over 5,000 outdoor enthusiasts and pet-lovers are expected to attend the annual free festival.

Music and entertainment on the main stage will feature Trails and Rails, Chris Clarke & Plow and the Zzymzzy Quartet. Festival vendors and displays will feature great food, local artists with arts and crafts, and exhibits on water conservation, saving energy, the environment, healthy living and outdoor recreation.

This year for the first time, the festival will include a special treat for the kids—a River Kids Zone, with hands-on activities, rock climbing wall, and circus performances by the Sophia Isadora Academy of Circus Arts. The Kids Education Stage will provide presentations from Project Wildlife, “Ms. Smarty Plants” from the Water Conservation Garden, Therapy Dogs with List Srv 4 Therapy Dogs, Abel Silvas “Running Grunion,” Service Dogs with trainer Sandy Storrie and Joy. The Sophia Isadora Academy of Circus Arts will speak about how circus is an expression of art with the physical form.

This year’s RiverFest sponsors include Civita by Sudberry Properties, San Diego Gas & Electric (Sempra Energy), Think Blue – San Diego, United States Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation, Kaiser Permanente, the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, City of San Diego Public Utilities, and the San Diego River Conservancy. RiverFest is hosted by The San Diego River Park Foundation. Additional information on RiverFest and the Healthy River 5-Mile Run/Walk which immediately precedes it, may be found at www.sdriverdays.org.

Page 2

MissionValleyNews.com — May 2011

HDSA-San Diego Launches “Give an Ad, Save a Life” Local business community asked to donate bonus advertisements for a good cause The San Diego Chapter of Huntington’s Disease Society of America (HDSA) announced the launch of a drive targeting local companies to see if they would be willing to donate any bonus media advertisements to help raise money for research and education.

Donated radio, television, print, and online ad spots would be re-purposed to promote the Huntington’s Disease (HD) message. HDSA–San Diego would acknowledge participating companies at its “Shoot to Cure” fundraising event in June, its “Celebration of Hope” annual fundraising gala in October, and announce all corporate supporters through social media outlets like Facebook, Twitter, and HDSA’s local website.

At a time when media costs are still out of reach for most local non-profits, See HDSA-San Diego, Page 4

A+ Carpet Recycling

CARPET RECYCLING COMPANY OPENS IN SAN DIEGO Old, used carpet now has a home in San Diego. A+ Carpet Recycling has opened a 13,000 sf. warehouse that serves as a solution for contractors and homeowners to environmentally dispose of old, used carpet. A grand opening celebration and open house was recently held at their facility on 8585 Production Avenue. Since opening they have already recycled over 150,000 pounds of carpet and carpet padding. The company’s goal is to progressively improve their recycling until we recycle between 750,000 and 1,000,000 pounds every month.

By diverting carpet from landfills, A+ Carpet Recycling is actively involved in the green movement and interested in the environmental wellbeing of San Diego. Hundreds of thousands of pounds of carpet are thrown away each year in our county’s landfills by contractors and homeowners who have had no other choice but to dispose of their carpet at a landfill. Waste carpet contributes 3.5% of waste disposed to our overflowing landfills.

Recycled carpet can create a variety of different products. Old carpet therefore, can and should be redirected from landfills to recycling facilities.

Contact Ashton Buswell: 619.941.8201 or ashton@apluscarpetrecycling.com for more information.

SAN DIEGO LAW FIRM GOES GREEN BY GOING PAPERLESS Situated in one of San Diego’s oldest neighborhoods, along University Avenue in North Park, San Diego Law Firm reflects the traits of the environmentally conscious urban dwellers that live in its North Park neighborhood and has a made a commitment to be the first paperless law practice in San Diego.

“We’re only 10 minutes from downtown but light years away from most law firms in San Diego in terms of meeting our commitment to reducing and eliminating the use of paper,” asserts William R. Simon Jr., managing partner.

San Diego Law Firm employs several green tactics to better serve its clients as well as the environment. All documents are stored electronically, eliminating the need for file cabinets, attorneys telecommute and have minimalistic work stations in the University Avenue offices, and all waste is recycled.

Office space is a fluid concept at San Diego Law Firm. One of the big benefits of going paperless is that it enables the attorneys at the firm to use whichever workstation is available while in the office. Offices can have a much smaller footprint than paper-centric offices and can even be “hot-bunked“ through alternating schedules, so that a single office may be the primary workstation of two or more attorneys or staff members.

“Becoming a paperless office was a definite challenge but it was important to us to become a ‘green’ firm,” added Simon. “We believe we may be one of the first in the country – it took us three years to accomplish what we have to date.

We have gone above and beyond merely recycling our waste and try to keep up with emerging trends to become more environmentally friendly.”

The firm eliminates future waste by preventing physical office expansion.

Despite significant growth in terms of case load as well as employee numbers in the past two years, Simon has not needed to move the firm into additional office space.

San Diego Law Firm’s office space was designed with efficiency and waste reduction in mind. Rather than building large offices with sprawling floor plans, Simon maximized the use of space by creating workstations that are minimalistic while still providing privacy and comfort to employees. Since the firm does not have physical files, the space is even further consolidated by eliminating the need for filing cabinets, boxes and shelving units.

See San Diego Law Firm, Page 6

Rent Sense: Who’s my neighbor?

By Neil Fjellestad and Chris DeMarco Fjellestad, Barrett & Short Often when a potential renter is walking the property and interviewing the owner/manager, questions are asked that can’t or shouldn’t be answered by any trained housing professional or liability- concerned landlord. Here’s a sample- “Do you have young children in this community?” “Any college students live in this building?” “What can you tell me about my neighbors?”

So, what’s wrong with such questions? Here’s a short list: • An apartment community and individual rentals must adhere to housing policies that do not discriminate against neighbors that belong to protected classes as dictated by federal, state and local Fair Housing laws.

• Most of the types of questions that are posed about neighbors are discriminating under these laws whether or not discrimination is intended.

• A landlord or his/her representative that entertains such questions and/ or seeks to placate the potential renter with an answer that will further the leasing process has participated in a discriminatory practice and has incurred potential liability under Fair Housing.

• There is a separate but equally important matter of privacy. Any information that could be shared about a neighbor has been gained due to a business relationship that maintains stiff consumer protection due to a fiduciary relationship that is implied.

• There should be written application qualifying criterion and governing resident policies by which every tenant must abide; nothing more, nothing less.

Our daily interaction with renters over the last four decades has taught us one thing for sure—having good neighbors is often fostered by being a good neighbor. There are no questions that can predict a future relationship that requires effort not yet extended. Read more or ask questions at www.fbs-pm.com.

MISSION VALLEY ROTARY CLUB

CALENDAR FOR MAY 2011 May 5…Honoring Principals of Serving Hands International Past District Governor Manuel Felix of Mexico and members of the Tijuana Independencia Rotary Club will hold a joint meeting with our club to honor Terry Caster, Mike and Larry Mascari of our club for their work in Serving Hands International. The meeting will honor the Mexican holiday of Cinco de Mayo.

May 12…Why Should We Save America Manufacturing and What Can I Do? Since 2000, the U.S. has lost over 5.5 million manufacturing jobs.

Is there a connection between state and federal budget deficits and the loss of our mfg jobs? How can we save American mfg.? Why we should and how we can will be addressed by Michele Nash-Hoff, Pres. of ElectroFab Sales, an independent manufacturer’s representative agency which she founded in 1985. (Recommended by Rotarian Diane Crawford, our former Assistant Governor.)

May 19…Club Retention Grows Membership Del Mar Rotarian Fletcher Hull will speak: This is an opportunity for members to learn how they can start being Rotarians instead of just “doing” Rotary. Clubs always look for the “outcomes” they want but rarely look for what causes the outcomes.”

May 26…Students from RYLA Students who were selected to attend RYLA will tell us of their adventures and learning in the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy.

Regular meetings of the MISSION VALLEY ROTARY CLUB are held at noon every Thursday at the Trellises Restaurant in the Town & Country Hotel, 500 Hotel Circle North, San Diego CA 92108. Parking will be validated at the restaurant. Guests $20. RSVP to Andrew Tuccillo at tuccillo@wfpc.com

MissionValleyNews.com — May 2011

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CORRECTION In an article in the March MV News, outdoors writer Tom Leech wrote about a short hike into Buchanan Canyon, between Mission Valley and Hillcrest. We’ve been advised that the suggested trailhead access to the bottom, i.e. from Mission Valley, requires hikers to cross a private parking lot. The owner of that lot has asked us to remove that option. So to hike Buchanan Canyon, Tom suggests you start and end at the top, in Hillcrest. That entry is at Johnson Avenue, just off Lincoln, north of the intersection with Washington Street. The unmarked trailhead starts across from the JohnsonHayes intersection. “So get out there and have a fun stroll down the canyon, then back up. Be sure to wear lug-soled boots as it’s steep in several places.”

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EXPLORE MISSION TRAILS DAY MAY 2011:

2011

Popular event returns for one day only, May 21

Mission Trails Regional Park, one of our City’s least known, great treasures, is open every day. But only once a year do dozens of volunteers, Park Rangers and community leaders host a large free event to help San Diegans learn more about their Park and how to enjoy it. On Saturday, May 21, residents of all ages are invited to the 2011 event: Explore Mission Trails Day (EMTD).

Mission Trails Regional Park, only 21 minutes from downtown San Diego, is an “open space” urban park with over 6,000 acres, located at the eastern end of Mission Valley. It is one of the largest urban parks in the United States offering opportunities year-round for free outdoor fun, but is not very well known except to those living in the neighboring communities of Tierrasanta, Santee, San Carlos and La Mesa.

EMTD activities on May 21 will take place in several different areas Richard Cerutti demonstrates of the diverse park, but will be focused flint-knapping mainly around the Visitor and Interpretive Center and the Equestrian Staging Area at SR52 and Mast Blvd. A bird walk, entitled “Birds of Kumeyaay Lake” will begin at 8 a.m. at the Kumeyaay Lake Campground. Most other events will take place between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., with child-themed nature walks occurring early in the day. However, a special Ranger-led “Twilight Walk” will begin at 7 p.m. from the Kumeyaay Lake Campground (reservations for this event are required: call 619-6682748), followed by a star-gazing event at 8 p.m., weather permitting.

Volunteer Trail Guides will lead several special walks into the Park with child-themed topics such as “How Kumeyaay Children Lived and Played Mom and son enjoy the day in Mission Trails” and “Who Lives Here: The Critters of Mission Trails.”

Senior Park Ranger Tracey Walker returns to lead a popular walk for families from the Visitor Center entitled “Hike with a Ranger” at 11 a.m. Youngsters can also enjoy arts and crafts projects (for ages 3 and up), free pony rides and up-close encounters with raptors, reptiles and other live animals. Over a dozen “Discovery Stations” near the pony rides will provide interactive learning opportunities about geology, birds, insects, Indian culture, native plants and many other topics in the Equestrian Staging Area of the Park.

Scholastic’s Ms. Frizzle™ will help educate little ones about one of San Diego’s most common wild critters— courtesy of the San Diego Natural History Museum. The wacky, redMom with baby in backpack haired character from the book series, The Magic School Bus©, will present a special program about bats in the Visitor Center’s outdoor amphitheater at 9:30 and 10:45 a.m. and again at 12 noon for children ages three to eight years, teaching them basic conservation concepts, and how to observe and live with these elusive neighbors.

See Explore Mission Trails Day, Page 11

Healthy River Walk through Mission Valley, May 15 5-Mile Walk for a Cause designed for families The San Diego Healthy River 5-Mile Walk for a Cause on May 15 will help raise support and awareness for the San Diego River Trail and Parks. Families, individuals, and teams will be adding their voices in support of creating a clean, safe, and healthy San Diego River Trail for the community.

The 5-mile Walk for a Cause will begin on Sunday, May 15, at the Qualcomm Stadium Practice Field at 8 a.m. Participants will include joggers, walkers, moms with their little ones in strollers, kids of all ages and pet lovers walking their dogs. The route is from Qualcomm Stadium, through areas of Mission Valley past the San Diego River Garden and along parts of the San Diego River Trail. This year’s sponsor is Civita by Sudberry Properties.

After the walk, participants are invited to attend this year’s San Diego See Healthy River Walk, Page 4

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MissionValleyNews.com — May 2011

PIER 1 HOLIDAY GREETING CARD SALES RAISE MORE THAN $1.3 MILLION FOR UNICEF Local Mission Valley resident Corazon Gaffud, Store Manager from Pier 1, was just awarded recognition from UNICEF for her outstanding work in helping Pier 1 raise 1.3 million dollars from the sale of UNICEF greeting cards during the 2010 holiday season. In April, Pier 1 Imports presented a check for $1.3 million to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF representing the proceeds raised from the sale of UNICEF greeting cards during the 2010 holiday season. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the sale of UNICEF holiday greeting cards will go toward helping the U.S. Fund for UNICEF in its mission to decrease the number of daily, preventable childhood deaths from 22,000 to zero.

“Pier 1 Imports is an important partner to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF and we are delighted with the funds raised from its sale of UNICEF holiday greeting cards this past season,” said U.S. Fund for UNICEF Senior Vice President of Development Robert Thompson. We look forward to many more years of partnership with Pier 1. Their continued support and dedication to UNICEF is invaluable in helping with our lifesaving mission worldwide.”

This year, four Pier 1 Imports store managers and two field leaders were Mission Valley resident and Pier 1 Store Manager presented with plaques Corazon Gaffud (second from the right), was for 2010 holiday greeting recognized in April for helping raise $1.3 million card sales results. They for UNICEF during the 2010 holiday season. are Bridgette Maine, Store Manager from Los Angeles/ Palmdale; Corazon Gaffud, Store Manager from San Diego/Mission Valley; Brian Autote, Store Manager from San Diego/La Jolla; Marlene Thompson, Store Manager from Saint John NB; Teresa Schroer, Field Leader of San Diego region and Robert Lemke of California/Hawaii Division.

See Pier 1, Page 5

Tree, from page 1 is expected in April 2012.

“We spent months looking for the right tree to be the first ‘resident’ of Civita,” said Marco Sessa, senior vice president of residential land development at Sudberry Properties. “We chose a tree for this important milestone because the tree represents life and sustainability, which are core principles of Civita. This special tree will be an iconic centerpiece in the new community.”

Sudberry worked with one of the project’s landscape architects, Lifescapes International, to select the right tree for Civita. The Moreton Bay Fig tree was chosen because of its beauty and size; it has eight trunks and is 30 feet in diameter at its widest point. The tree also has special meaning in San Diego because the landmark tree in Balboa Park is also a Moreton Bay Fig. Civita will unfold around a central open space, with neighborhoods connected by green belts, trails and tree-lined streets. When all phases are completed (estimated to take 12 to 15 years), the community will include some 1 million square feet of commercial and retail space and 4,780 residential units. Designed on the principles of walkability and connectedness, more than one-third of the development will be devoted to open space and public areas, including landscaped public parks and parkways, private open space and a Civic Center with a plaza, amphitheater for events and a Heritage Museum.

The museum will celebrate the history of Mission Valley and be operated by The San Diego River Park Foundation.

Future phases of Civita will feature a shuttle system, a hybrid-car sharing program, and a network of hiking, biking and walking trails close to the trolley stop. For further information, see the project website at www.civitalife.com.

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Residential Foreclosure Patterns in San Diego and Riverside Counties

By Alan N. Nevin MarketPointe Realty Advisors In this column, we take a look at the tumultuous half decade in residential real estate that we just completed. Specifically, we are looking at the trend in foreclosures in San Diego and Riverside Counties between 2006 and 2010.

Much is made of the month to month trends in distressed residential real estate, but we think that the story is really told in broad strokes (the volatility in month to month foreclosure data muddies the picture).

Both counties have a non-rental housing stock of approximately three quarters of a million homes. After many years of robust housing growth in Riverside, by 2010 there were 774,615 homes, while San Diego finished the decade with 753,666. Unfortunately for Riverside, the similarities with the San Diego housing market stopped there.

Riverside became one of the poster children for foreclosure in the United States, joining Stockton, Phoenix, Las Vegas and Florida. The last five years saw 99,652 foreclosures in Riverside County (keep in mind that individual homes may have been foreclosed more than once). During the same time period, San Diego had a total of 59,010 foreclosures.

An interesting comparative fact is that in 2006, the foreclosure numbers in both counties were nearly identical, 2,065 in San Diego and 2,193 in Riverside.

It did not take long for Riverside to fall off the cliff after that. The good news is that both counties have been trending downward since peaking in 2008. The See Foreclosures, Page 8

Healthy River Walk, from page 3 RiverFest on the Practice Field, at 10 a.m. The festival is “Celebrating San Diego River Trail & Parks.” Bands featured on the main stage include Trails and Rails, Chris Clarke and Plow, and the Zzymzzy Quartet. The River Kids Zone has hands-on-activities for the kids, circus performances by the Sophia Isadora Academy of Circus Arts and festival vendors and displays. The festival has great food, arts and crafts, and exhibits on water conservation, saving energy, the environment, healthy living and outdoor recreation.

The San Diego Healthy River 5-Mile Walk for a Cause is hosted by the San Diego River Park Foundation, whose vision is to establish trails, parks, gardens, and education centers at points along the entire 52-mile river, saving it for future generations. Proceeds of the walk benefit the River Park Foundation. For more information or to register for the walk, visit www.sdriverdays. org, or contact Program Manager Richard Dhu at richard@sandiegoriver.org About The San Diego River Park Foundation The River Park Foundation is a non-profit community-based organization founded in 2001. Since its founding, it has grown in membership to more than 3,000 people and annually organizes volunteers who contribute more than 20,000 hours of service to San Diego. Visit www.sandiegoriver.org.

HDSA-San Diego, from page 2 HDSA-San Diego is hoping this method will result in the development of a media advertisement inventory to help generate awareness for the fatal neurological disease and raise dollars for HD research and education.

“The idea on the surface is really very simple, so we know that we have to work closely with participating organizations to help them maximize their donations,” said Luanne Bas, HDSA-San Diego Chapter President. “You can donate your organs or you can donate your blood, but what we are asking companies to do here is to donate any extra advertisements available to fund important research and help save lives.”

The concept of “Give an Ad, Save a Life” is more about stretching local marketing budgets to make a difference in the community. If, for example, a participating company has a dozen or so bonus radio spots in its inventory, it has the option of donating some or all of the extra spots to HDSA. By educating the public about HD and promoting the need for additional HD research, the organization hopes to expand funding to find a cure and prevent future generations of suffering from this disease.

Local companies are being asked to donate advertisements on behalf of HDSA. Even if they are currently unable to do so, these companies will be informed about additional opportunities to support HD research through future HDSA fundraising events in the upcoming year.

For more information about HD or to donate media advertising spots, please contact Stephanie Alband at 619-225-2255 or e-mail: salband@hdsa.org.

About Huntington’s Disease: Since the discovery of the gene that causes Huntington’s disease in 1993, the pace of Huntington’s research has accelerated dramatically. Today, researchers have come to view Huntington’s Disease as a “model” for other neuron-degenerative disorders and recognize that the answers they find for Huntington’s may be applied to treatment of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Approximately 30,000 people in the United States have been diagnosed with Huntington’s; however, it is suspected that an additional 200,000 may be carriers of the disease. Children of a parent with HD have a 50-50 chance of inheriting the condition, and the disease can start as early as childhood.

Currently, there is no effective treatment or cure; however, with increased awareness and research, there is hope.

MissionValleyNews.com — May 2011

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HEALTH EXPERIENCE YOGA IN THE DARK AND SUPPORT YOGA CLASSES FOR THE BLIND Did you know that 3.4 million (3%) Americans aged 40 years and older are either blind (having visual acuity of 20/200 or less or a visual field of less than 20 degrees) or are visually impaired (having VA of 20/40 or less)?

How does this relate to yoga? Bring your mat and see for yourself. Come have a different yogic experience – practice yoga in the dark Silver Age Yoga Community Outreach, Inc., (SAYCO) presents YOGA IN THE DARK, a different yogic experience in complete darkness, on Saturday, May 14, from 2 to 4 pm at the Scottish Rite Center, 1895 Camino del Rio So., Mission Valley. The event fee is $50 for advanced tickets, $65 at the door.

Proceeds will support Silver Age Yoga’s classes at centers for the blind across See Yoga in the Dark, Page 10

FLO FUSION FITNESS CENTER OPENS IN MISSION VALLEY Offers San Diegans the opportunity to “Train like an Olympian” Founded by world-class athlete, three-time Olympian and licensed chiropractor Dr. Flora Hyacinth, Flo Fusion Fitness opened its first fitness center in San Diego in April. Flo Fusion Fitness is a unique exercise system that fuses yoga, Pilates and resistance training to create a powerful core body workout.

The unique method, designed by Dr. Hyacinth, delivers results in weight loss, strength and conditioning, rehabilitation, and improved flexibility, balance and endurance, based on each individual’s goals.

The Flo Fusion Fitness Center, located at 2555 Camino Del Rio South, Suite 209, in Mission Valley, features comprehensive wellness solutions to care for the body from the inside out, including fitness, massage therapy, chiropractic care and on-site nutrition counseling. Appealing to the visual, physical and auditory senses, the fitness studio features flat-screen televisions displayed above each training station to visually show each movement performed by Dr. Hyacinth, while dedicated personal trainers audibly and physically coach the workout in-person.

See Flo Fusion, Page 7

92108, from page 1 years. According to the U.S. Census, 15 percent of Mission Valley residents are Latino, a number that will increase to 26 percent by 2050. The Asian population will also increase from 11 percent in 2010 to 13 percent in 2050 and the Black population will increase from 5 percent in 2010 to 8 percent in 2050. The White population will decrease from 62 percent today to 46 percent in 2050.

Living next to San Diego City’s second-largest homeless population. A point-in-time count of the homeless population in Mission Valley, conducted on January 28, 2011, by the San Diego County Regional Task Force on the Homeless, revealed that 269 persons were counted on the streets of Valley News the & Views MissionMission Valley. This outnumbered combined total of homeless on the streets in Balboa Park, City Heights, Golden Hill, Hillcrest, Kensington, Normal Heights, North Park, Talmadge, University Heights and Uptown.

The Mission Valley News asked several residents why they chose to live in Mission Valley. Here is what they have to say: Albertino Hernandez, age 28, transportation engineer “Mission Valley is at the center of everything,” says Albertino Hernandez, who was cramming for an engineering license test at a local coffee shop. “My work is just down the street and the gym is right next door.” He admits that occasionally he drives to Chula Vista for “culture shopping” where he stocks up on ethnic foods, but most of his days are spent in 92108. “I like the closeness and the quiet neighborhood.” One of the nicest things a neighbor has done for him is to wrap some of his Christmas presents when he was out of wrapping paper. Hernandez says he plans to live in Mission Valley “as long as I can.”

Sue-Ellen DiFilippi, stay-at-home mom with 10-month old Isabella “I love Mission Valley,” says Sue-Ellen DiFilippi, who moved here in 2006.

She chose the neighborhood because it is “a fairly new area, modern, clean and there are a lot of younger people.” The former assistant buyer for Price Smart is now incorporating her favorite places into kid-friendly outings. “We walk to the malls, to the bookstore or the library.” On a warm day in spring, DiFilippi and another Mission Valley mom and her daughter were on their way to a pool to cool off. While Mission Valley seems to cater less to families (fewer parks See 92108, Page 14

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REPORT: HEALTH CARE “GIVING” NOT GOING WHERE NEEDED MOST

By Deb Courson Smith California News Service SACRAMENTO, Calif. - It’s a line of cash that the public doesn’t usually consider, but billions of dollars flow each year into the health care system in the form of grants from charitable foundations. A new report from the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy tracks some of that cash to see how well it’s being used to improve health care access for those who have been shut out of the system.

Study author Terri Langston found that only about 30 percent of foundations appear to be dedicated to the cause.

“That’s just not enough in a country where we tend to marginalize people…to turn our backs on groups that are under-served.”

She says the report is intended to encourage those who make decisions about grants to think about their effectiveness. If the funds being granted See Health Care Report, Page 12

Pier 1, from page 4 Pier 1 began selling UNICEF greeting cards in 1985 and is now the world’s largest retailer of UNICEF greeting cards, having raised more than $28 million to date. The Pier 1 greeting card contest started in 1992 as a way to help raise awareness among U.S. school children about UNICEF’s important work for children and families around the world, and has inspired kids from coast to coast to use their creative talents in a meaningful way. Each year, children in the United States ages 14 and under are invited to compete in the Pier 1 Imports/UNICEF Greeting Card Contest, with the winning design chosen from thousands of entries and reproduced as an official UNICEF holiday greeting card sold at Pier 1 Imports stores nationwide.

Funds from the sale of cards support UNICEF programs that provide lifesaving medicines, vaccines, nutritious foods, primary education, clean water and sanitation and emergency relief for millions of children and women in more than 150 countries.

Page 6

MissionValleyNews.com — May 2011

COMMUNITY GOVERNANCE Sharing the Sefton Park Secret

By Ron Roberts, Supervisor, District #4

See Ron Roberts, Page 7

A few years ago, I witnessed the building of California’s Official Tall Ship, The Californian, at Spanish Landing, so when my friend and now one of the captains of that ship, Ray Stewart, (Ray just received a certificate acknowledging 10,000 hours of volunteer service to the Maritime Museum) mentioned that another ship was to be built at the same location, I had to see that, too. The Maritime Museum of San Diego hosted a huge crowd for the keel-laying ceremony signifying the first major construction milestone of the San Salvador, a historically-accurate replica of the European flagship that first sailed into San Diego Bay by Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo on September 25, 1542.

The only observers of this historical event, which was the basis for future colonization and development of the West Coast, were the Kumeyaay Indians who lived at the waterfront. They engraved a pictograph in a rock to mark their observation. The Spanish Landing site where the San Salvador is being constructed will also have pottery, basket weaving, rope making and knot tying demonstrations as well as an active Kumeyaay village and living historical reenactments.

As Councilman Kevin Faulconer stated, “I brought up this idea casually one day in a meeting, and now look what has happened.” Though no plans are available for the construction of the ship, it has been extensively researched for accuracy by prominent historians of naval archiMayor Jerry Sanders addresses the huge crowd tecture, shipbuilding, and that witnessed the laying of the keel of the San voyages in the age of exploraSalvador at Spanish Landing in April. Pictured are tion. When complete, the San Supervisor Greg Cox, Coucilman Kevin Faulconer, Salvador will measure 92 feet Port Commissioner Scott Peters, NPS Superintendent from the bow to the stern and Tom Workman, Maritime Museum Board Chair 24 feet across with a volume Bill Dysart and members of the Kumeyaay Tribe. of about 200 tons and promises to be a great tourism attraction. For more information visit the website of the Maritime Museum of San Diego at www.sdmaritime.org.

As guest speaker for the Mission Valley Rotary Club, Mr. Tom Karlo, general manager of KPBS, advised that beginning in September, KPBS is expanding its evening news to a 30 minute in-depth coverage of local news which will air Monday thru Friday at 6:30 pm.

Give Gina the latest good news in Mission Valley for this column by emailing her at cord​ gina@gmail.com

Terraces at Copley Point

(formerly Quarry Falls)

Sudberry Properties is committed to environmentally-sensitive design, striking architecture, attention to detail, and meticulous construction. Our mission is to create public places within our shopping centers and mixed-use communities that enhance people’s quality of life – while being sensitive to our environment. We’re especially proud of two of our developments that have been awarded LEED certification: Civita (formerly Quarry Falls) – a mixed-use community in Mission Valley, and Terraces at Copley Point – two Class A office buildings. Both are models for sustainable design.

Everyone in the huge crowd raised their glass of champagne to toast the final laying of the keel of the San Salvador. The continuing construction of the ship will be available for the public to view beginning June 24, 2011, with expected completion in 2013.

Photo by Mohsen Zamani

Along the banks of the river, it is a great place to relax and take in a ballgame

While Mission Valley is well known for its plentiful shopping, fantastic restaurants, quality office buildings and extraordinary housing options, the locals know its secrets. And there are many, from paths along the river, a special garden and the funky glass elevator to Carl’s Jr. One of my favorite secrets is Sefton Park where the Presidio Little League plays and where I have attended many games.

Tucked along the banks of the San Diego River as it passes below Presidio Park, the park features five ball fields and has been hosting teams since 1970.

It is named in honor of the J.W. Sefton family, one of San Diego’s oldest and most generous. The J.W. Sefton Foundation has been instrumental in keeping Little League baseball in Mission Valley the last 38 years.

In 2004, the league became part of the San Diego Padres’ “Little Padres: Park Program” started by John Moores and received major upgrades.

The fields at Sefton Park are named for volunteers who have given generously of their time and energy to ensure that Little League Baseball maintains a place in Mission Valley. Those men are the late Scott Palmer, who managed the park’s first seniors’ team and had a great connection to the youngest players struggling to learn the game; Art Bishop, the original visionary of Sefton Park; the late Ed Luce, who coached and managed teams for 35 years; and Jack Hacker, who coached and managed teams for more than 38 years. The T-ball field is named for past league President Ron Carrico who served the league for more than 10 years.

This past fall, the County of San Diego was able to assist in the funding of a new type of synthetic turf for the infield of three of the five infields. Manufactured by a German company, the turf is of high quality and of a new design.

Because the park’s location is so close to the river, flooding is a major issue, and one that can wreak much damage. During this year’s prodigious rains, I worried the newly installed turf would float away. You can imagine my relief when I drove over and saw it stayed firmly in place, and witnessed the great job the league’s volunteers had done in protecting the rest of the field and

Civita

By Gina Cord, Mission Valley News Founder

Photo by Mohsen Zamani

Supervisor Roberts and Presidio Little League President Bruce Bourdon check out the conditions of the artificial turf infields after they were inundated

by San Diego River flooding.

GINA’S VALLEY VIEWS

San Diego Law Firm, from page 2 “We take great pride in our recycling and conservation efforts,” continued Simon. “Bettering the community has been a pillar of our business practices, and recycling and conservation is one of the main ways we try to give back to the community as well as the planet.”

The firm also attempts to hire nearby residents so when they do commute to work, it is short.

Four of the staff members all live within five miles of the office; another often rides her bike to work and three other staff members live within ten miles of the office. The firm also employs about five independent contractors who only have to travel to the office an average of once every couple months.

San Diego Law Firm provides various legal services including divorce, support and custody, wills, trusts and probate, accident and injury law, and business and real estate law. For more information, visit www.sandiegolawfirm.com.

MissionValleyNews.com — May 2011

Page 7

FREE SMOKE ALARMS FOR SENIORS Burn Institute Takes Lead in Countywide Safety Effort Did you know that having a working smoke alarm in your residence decreases your chances of dying in a house fire by 50% percent? Yet, thousands of seniors throughout San Diego County live in homes without a working smoke alarm.

Throughout the year, the Burn Institute, community volunteers and members of the fire service take part in a collaborative effort to install FREE lifesaving smoke alarms for qualified seniors in San Diego County. To qualify for the Burn Institute’s Senior Smoke Alarm Program, seniors must be 55 years or older, own their own home and live within San Diego County. They are now taking reservations for May and June installations.

National safety statistics confirm that adults 65 and older are two times more likely to die in a house fire than any other segment of the population— and for those older than 75, the risk nearly quadruples. One way that seniors can improve their chances of escaping a home fire is to make sure they have a working smoke alarm.

The Burn Institute’s Senior Smoke Alarm Program is available to seniors year-round. Installations are booked on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call Fabianne Furman at 858-541-2277 ext. 13, or email ffurman@burninstitute.org. Find out more at www.burninstitute.org.

Flo Fusion, from page 5 The grand opening of the first Flo Fusion Fitness center marks the latest advancement in fitness and brings together San Diego’s health, fitness and athlete community to share the experience. Following years of research and a hugely successful three-month pilot program comprised of 50-minute sessions three times a week, Dr. Hyacinth has led participants to experience proven results ranging from significant weight loss to the elimination of chronic lower back pain to an increase in tone and strength, as well as improved overall flexibility, balance and endurance.

Packages and training sessions are available for immediate booking. Flo Fusion Fitness center also offers massage therapy, nutrition counseling and chiropractic care for holistic care of the body from the inside out. For more information, call (619) 955-5442 or email flofusionfitness@yahoo.com.

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Working to Preserve Trash Services for District 6

By Lorie Zapf In recent weeks I have received several questions about notices that were mailed to a number of residents in our District regarding trash collection in the City, so I wanted to take this opportunity to give some background on the issue and address ongoing concerns. I want all my constituents to know that I absolutely want to preserve the Lorie Zapf represents City current trash services for residents and I am doing Council District everything I can to protect residents of District 6 and #6, which includes not further burden taxpayers on private streets.

Mission Valley In 1919, the voters of San Diego approved The People’s Ordinance, an ordinance guaranteeing the City provide trash pickup for all single-family homes on public streets. Starting in 1964, the City entered into several “hold-harmless agreements” on a case by case basis with the residents of private streets, which were excluded from The People’s Ordinance, to provide trash pickup. In 1986 The People’s Ordinance was amended to require private developments built after November 1986 to contract with a private hauler for pickup.

102 of the approximately 500 private communities in San Diego, or about 14,200 residences, have voluntary agreements with the City for trash pickup and these communities would have to hire a private trash hauler should the City cease their trash collection. However, it should be noted that all San Diegans pay property taxes regardless of who collects their trash.

Presently, the City Council does not have the legal authority to end or preserve these agreements. In order to prevent this limited discontinuation of trash collection the Council must first make changes to the law. If the Council chooses to change the actual structure of the law so we can preserve the agreements then we can move forward to protect this service. I strongly support making these changes and protecting trash collection.

For those of you reading this wondering whether your trash collection is in jeopardy if you have not received a letter from the City explaining such you are not a resident in one of the 102 communities in question.

Ron Roberts, from page 6 restoring what had been damaged.

With baseball season now beginning, League President Bruce Bourdon tells me the players absolutely love the new surface. It has a true hop which lessens any fear of the ball for the 6 to 12 year olds and it is easy to dive for balls almost out of reach.

Coaches love it because the maintenance is so easy. There’s no mowing, no raking, no leveling and no flooding from stuck sprinkler heads. The turf also has greatly reduced water consumption.

The synthetic turf is expected to last 12-15 years. I look forward to little leaguers enjoying it for years to come, and for generations to freely share in the secret of Sefton Park. Now go play ball!

San Diego County Supervisor Ron Roberts’ Fourth District includes Mission Valley and its surrounding communities. You can reach him at ron-roberts@ sdcounty.ca.gov or find him on Facebook by searching Ron Roberts.

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JEWELRY IDEAS FOR SPECIAL DAYS – MOMS, DADS, AND GRADS

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During the springtime months, there are several very special days that deserve celebration. Those include Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Graduation Day. Without question, jewelry is the most exciting gift you can give anyone on any of these occasions.

Here are a few suggestions: Mom would love a beautiful new Pandora Bracelet, a key to my heart pendant or mother’s ring with birthstones of the family.

Dad’s gift favorites include rings, money clips and tie tacs. Try a new alternative metal such as titanium, tungsten or stainless steel for a crisp new look.

Grads would love a new dress watch or cool sports watch. Girls also like charm bracelets, photo lockets and pearls. Guys like silver ID bracelets and engraved signet rings.

MAY BIRTHSTONE: EMERALD The emerald, a beautiful green precious gem, is the most famous of the beryl family. Named for the Persian word for green, the emerald has always been surrounded by mystery. The Greek dedicated this stone to the Goddess Venus, believing that it ensured security in love. We offer a wide variety of emeralds set in pendants, earrings and rings as well as loose emeralds waiting for the mounting of your choice.

Go ahead and laugh! Hey, at least I didn’t pay for a degree to get offered ten bucks an hour!

Call Enhancery Jewelers 619-282-3900 for answers to any gem and jewelry questions you may have. Enhancery Jewelers is located in the Chili’s Shopping Center at 4242 Camino del Rio N.#17 (at I-8 & Mission Gorge). Open Tues.–Fri., 10–6 pm; Sat. 10–4 pm. Martin and Kathleen White have owned Enhancery Jewelers for over thirty two years. They specialize in diamond and gemstone jewelry, custom design, appraisals, jewelry and watch repairs. Visit us online at www.enhancery.com and become a fan on Facebook.

Page 8

MissionValleyNews.com — May 2011

Foreclosures, from page 4 table demonstrates the relative foreclosure behavior of each county.

In 2006, the foreclosure figures in each county equaled 0.3% of the total housing stock. In San Diego, this number peaked in 2008 at 2.6% of the housing stock, while in Riverside 4.6% of the total housing stock was foreclosed in that year. By the end of 2010, signs of improvement prevailed and San Diego had only 1.8% of its total housing stock foreclosed upon and Riverside 2.9%.

Despite historic low interest rates throughout the decade, the ratio of trustee sales to total sales paints a picture of how bleak it was (and still is to some degree) in the two county resale markets. In 2006, foreclosure sales represented less than 5 percent of all resales. Just two years later, 57% of all resales in San Diego were foreclosure based, and 79% of Riverside resales were foreclosure based. These numbers have steadily been drawing back and by year end 2010, 36% of San Diego resales were foreclosures and 51% of Riverside resales were foreclosures.

The big picture of the last half decade and the coming few years, is that the attrition of foreclosures (and their poorly collateralized debt) is moving along and traditional resales will be the majority again in both markets in 2011 (they already are in San Diego as of 2009). As the underlying demand of increasingly optimistic home buyers is coupled with a lack of new home product and sub-5% See Foreclosures, Page 12

AROUND OLD TOWN A Passion for Pastry If it’s chocolaty and gooey, she loves to make it!

Caitlin Gleyo, pastry chef at Old Town’s Cosmopolitan Hotel and Restaurant, grew up in her Great Aunt Beatrice Pasquariello’s kitchen, where she learned her way around pots and pans, cookie sheets, mixers and more.

Planting her passion for pastry. One might say baking is in her DNA; she comes from a family of cooks: Caitlin’s uncle, aunt and cousin in the Philippines are all professional chefs and bakers. And her sisters Monina and Trinidad, and brother Noel are pretty keen in the kitchen, too!

Outside of her family circle, the most influential person in Caitlin’s life is Italian Francesco Santoro, master pastry chef at the Prado where Caitlin worked as his apprentice for several years.

Her favorites to bake?

“Anything chocolaty and gooey.

Also, truffles, soufflés, mousses, macaroons, choux à la crème, and cookies, of course.”

Matthew Glass is Caitlin’s lucky fiancé; although he doesn’t cook or bake, “…he enjoys everything I make,” Caitlin assured.

When asked about her Caitlin Gleyo wedding cake plans, she said, “I’m considering making my own wedding cake (either mocha-chocolate, lemon or carrot cake) with simple vanilla meringue or buttercream and perhaps a self-serve candy bar for my guests. “ This may be a little ambitious, making my own wedding cake for ‘my big day,’ however, it would be nice to contribute in this way, and knowing that I was able to make my own cake for 150+ guests would be pretty impressive—just as long as it doesn’t conflict with Will she bake her own wedding cake? hair and makeup time!”

A graduate of San Diego State University with a degree in Sociology, Caitlin, 27, lives in Bankers Hill with her two dogs, Luca, a French Bulldog, and Elle, a Chihuahua.

She grew up in a Navy family with parents, Kathryn and Emmanuel, in the Spring Valley area and Imperial Beach, where her parents are still living, in retirement.

In her spare time (an oxymoron?) she enjoys crafting and jazz and tap dance classes.

Her goal: to have her own business/pastry shop. Her motto: “Life is uncertain, eat dessert first!”

MissionValleyNews.com — May 2011

Page 9

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT SAN DIEGO’S ONLY FEMALE-OWNED WINERY

By Steve Dryden You might suspect I’m talking about Mother Her upcoming releases will include either 100% Nature, but I’m actually featuring a dynamic varietal or blends of: 2009 Sangiovese, 2009 woman, Jennifer June Jenkin from Ramona.

Cabernet Sauvignon, 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, She is the owner of a “garage winery” and is the 2010 Tempranillo, 2010 Zinfandel, 2010 Petite proprietor winemaker of Pamo Valley Winery in Sirah, 2010 Syrah and 2010 Merlot. Barrel eastern San Diego County. Her artisan project in samples tasted from the 2009 and 2010 vintages crafting handmade wines is a family operation indicate that Jenn could possibly have more that includes her mother, stepaward-winning wines to feature father, dad and grandmother. in the near future.

In fact, her grandmother is My favorite Pamo Valley the source of Granny’s vineWinery “bottled treasure of yard with about one acre of delight” is the artwork of Jenn Tempranillo and Syrah vines.

Jenkin and winemaker John R. Serendipity Ranch is home York. Their 2007 Cab on Fire is to this small family winery a dynamic and delicious wine, in Pamo Valley, just one mile “a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvieast of Ramona. Granny’s gnon and 25% Merlot.”

Syrah vines were burned to Garage wineries are a the ground in the 2007 Witch phenomenal new trend in the Creek Fire, but have made a artisan winemaking culture. miraculous recovery and are Pamo Valley Winery is actually Jennifer June Jenkin happily planted alongside located in a double-car garage Tempranillo vines. on Serendipity Ranch at 20997 Pamo Valley Winery limits production to Black Canyon Road. Beginning June 1, Jenn will about 350 cases annually, with 70% of grapes be hosting the first wine-tasting room in downbeing outsourced from grape growers in San town Ramona at Sixth and Main Street. In the Diego county. Jenn takes great pleasure in meantime, I enthusiastically suggest you visit purchasing as many Pamo Valley grapes from this amazing, small-family operated winery in her neighbors as available, and will be crafting San Diego’s beautiful East County. More details wines from her own estate vineyards in the near are available at www.pamovalleywinery.com future. She’s planted about two acres on her own or info@pamovalleyvineyards.com or phone at homestead with varietals of Sangiovese, Petite (760) 271-3090.

Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Viognier.

Stay tuned to learn more about the World of Her current portfolio of wine includes: Wine and wineries located within easy driving 2010 Ramona Blush, 2008 Estate Viognier distance of Mission Valley. Steve Dryden is a (Lotus) from Orfila winery, 2008 Merlot, 2008 popular wine, culinary and travel writer. Visit his Indian Princess blend, and 2007 Cab on Fire. blog: www.winefoodguide.com.

‘Let Me Down Easy’ On Stage at the Lyceum Bracing, poetic show by Anna Deavere Smith San Diego REPertory Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, and Vantage Theatre, in Association with Arena Stage, present the Second Stage Theatre’s Production of “Let Me Down Easy,” conceived, written and performed by awardwinning playwright and actress, Anna Deavere Smith.

“Let Me Down Easy” explores the power of the body, the price of health and the resilience of the Anna Deavere Smith spirit. Based on interviews with an eclectic range of people—from a heavyweight boxer to a supermodel, and from Texas Governor Ann Richards to legendary cyclist Lance Armstrong.

To write “Let Me Down Easy,” Smith interviewed over 300 people on three continents. “My goal is to learn as much about a person as possible by studying the way they speak,” says Smith. “My portrayals of the more than 20 people in this one-woman show are all drawn from the words of people who speak to the vulnerability of the human body, the resilience of the spirit, the price of care.”

Smith speaks directly to our hopes and discomforts about life, death, whom we should take care of and who should (or should not) take care of us. This show is a bracing, poetic experience.

Production will run from April 27 to May 15 at Lyceum Stage, 79 Horton Plaza, San Diego. Call the Lyceum Box Office at 619-544-1000 or visit www.sdrep. org for show times and to purchase tickets.

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MissionValleyNews.com — May 2011

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Yoga in the Dark, from page 5 the county. Tickets can be purchased on line at http://silverageyoga.blog.com/ about/experience-yoga-in-the-dark/ or by calling 858-693-3110.

Silver Age Yoga is a new style of Hatha Yoga. Based on geriatric science and research, it is designed so that seniors can safely participate at their level of comfort. It offers the only geriatric, science-based yoga teacher training in the U.S. Explains founder Frank Iszak, “This unique program (SAYCO) benefits many people on different levels. Seniors get weekly, health-enhancing and life-enlightening yoga practices at no charge to them. As a result, they become more involved and engaged because they are feeling better. The community benefits by having a healthier and more active senior population to participate in community affairs.”

SAYCO classes are taught by specially trained yoga instructors who bring the benefits of this unique yoga to needy seniors at no cost to the seniors.

Focusing on health benefits, the program will teach 1,450 free yoga classes this year to hundreds of seniors at 29 San Diego venues including four blind centers.

SAYCO was founded in 2003 by San Diego County residents Frank and Serpil Iszak, international “pioneers” of senior yoga instruction. Established as a 501 (C) (3) non-profit in March 4, 2004, SAYCO’s mission is to provide underserved seniors free yoga classes throughout the country.

Because these classes are offered free to seniors, Silver Age Yoga relies on support from individual and corporate donations. The cost of operating one weekly yoga class for one year in each location is $3,250. Currently two of the 29 programs receive full support; 14 are partially funded.

In the past the program has received support from small businesses, private individuals, and members of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors. The goal of Silver Age Yoga is to have 100 classes throughout the country, fully supported at $325,000.

For more information on SAYCO visit http://www.silverageyoga.org/ or call 858.693.3110.

ROTARY CLUBS WEEKLY MEETINGS IN MISSION VALLEY OR NEARBY Mission Valley Rotary Club at noon on Thursdays at Trellises Restaurant in the Town & Country Hotel 500 Hotel Circle North • San Diego, CA 92108 missionvalleyrotaryclub.org.

Old Mission Rotary Club at noon on Tuesdays at Best Western Seven Seas Hotel 411 Hotel Circle South • San Diego, CA 92108 www.oldmissionrotary.org Mission Valley Sunset Rotary Club 5:30 pm–7 pm on Wednesdays 4th Wed. is a mixer at various locations Crowne Plaza Hanalei Hotel • 2270 Hotel Circle North If you would be interested in attending a meeting or becoming a member, contact the Club of your choice.

MissionValleyNews.com — May 2011

Page 11

AT YOUR SERVICE Daniel Anderle 619.296.3400

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PREFERRED BUILDERS’ SERVICES & SUPPLIERS Help Wanted Professor, Chinese Medicine Teach doctoral level courses in Chinese medical classics. Provide clinical supervision of fellows & students. Degree & exp. req. Send resume to: HR, Pacific College of Oriental Medicine 7445 Mission Valley Rd, Ste 105, San Diego, CA 92108.

FAMILY OWNED

FOR GENERATIONS,

the 2801 and 2667 commercial office buildings offer a UNIQUE rental experience.

g Located in the heart of Mission Valley, these two office buildings seem more like welcoming hotels than commercial office space. Lobbies are decorated with beautiful antique furniture, chandlers and Persian rugs.

This classic style continues in the conference rooms and common areas of the properties. The family’s time in Hawaii is demonstrated in the lush tropical landscape in and around the buildings. A large gazebo as well as water fountains complement the properties. Tenants as well as visitors enjoy the fresh cut flowers in the lobbies and the professional yet friendly atmosphere. The Gillard family truly enjoy their tenants and leasing office space at below market value to quality people. Amenities include conference rooms and kitchens, 24 hour access and ample free parking. Directly across from Mission Valley center and fashion Valley Mall, restaurants , office supplies and mailing centers are all just minutes away.

New tenants are always welcome. To learn more about the properties please visit www.beta2667.com.

To make an appointment to view the available offices please call Christine Gillard ( 619) 571-4070.

Coming soon: A community newspaper for La Mesa! Call 619-283-9747 for advertising info.

Explore Mission Trails Day, from page 3 Older kids and adults will have a chance to try out high-tech hiking poles or rock climbing and safely study sun spots through a special telescope set up on the Visitor Center terrace with local astronomer/naturalist George Varga.

Inside the Center, musician Jon Sherman will entertain visitors with Native American flute music, while authors of books related to the Park will be signing their works. “Plein air” artists will be painting views of Mission Gorge on the terrace and at the Old Mission Dam. Adventure 16 Outdoor Outfitters will operate a booth from 7:30 until 11 a.m. at the base of Cowles Mountain, loaning high-tech hiking poles to those interested in trying them out on their way up the mountain and back.

Small children can ride ponies for free (only until 1:30 p.m.) in one of the arenas in the Equestrian Staging Area near the Mast Blvd. entrance to the Park. In the same area, a special wall will be set up for children to try rock climbing and Project Wildlife will bring rescued wild animals for the public to view. At the Visitor and Interpretive Center other wildlife groups will present live raptors and reptiles. In addition to Ms. Frizzle’s programs, there will be crafts activities at for children in the classroom.

Mountain biking or hiking through the Grasslands, stopping for a picnic lunch under a spreading live oak tree or tracking deer near Kumeyaay Lake are simple activities available anytime, but when combined with free pony rides, a chance to see live raptors and reptiles face-to-face or learn about bats in a fun way, this special day is a guaranteed kid-pleaser.

Mission Trails Regional Park, often referred to as the third jewel in the City of San Diego Parks System, along with Balboa Park and Mission Bay Park, is managed by the City of San Diego Park & Recreation Department.

MTRP is the largest of the three parks. Many of the year-round opportunities at MTRP are made possible through partnership with the Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation, Inc., a 501(c) 3, non-profit public benefit corporation created to provide fund-raising and special programs for the Park. EMTD is an annual joint venture of the Park and Recreation Department and the MTRP Foundation.

Allied Waste Services and the City & County of San Diego are this year’s Title Sponsors; the event’s Community Sponsors for 2011 include San Diego Gas & Electric (Sempra Energy), Superior Ready Mix, Kaiser Permanente and Olive Garden Italian Restaurant.

A detailed map of the park and complete schedule of Explore Mission Trails Day events, including book signings by authors, nature walks and arts and crafts activities are available online at www.mtrp.org or at the Visitor and Interpretive Center information desk. Volunteers can also answer questions at (619) 668-3281.

Page 12

MissionValleyNews.com — May 2011

TRAVEL Los Angeles Garment District Trip

How about Retirement in Baja Sur? Or at least an extended visit…

By Dick Slaker

By Dick Slaker

Baja California Sur (literally Lower California, South) is the Mexican state comprising the southern half of Baja California. With attractive destinations like La Paz, Loreto, Los Cabos and Todos Santos, Baja California Sur is well worth exploring, which I did recently.

Other than driving the Baja 1000 race, the best option for getting there is flying from Tijuana, San Diego or Los Angeles. Alaska Airlines’ Horizon Air flies direct from Los Angeles’ LAX to La Paz, the capital and largest city of Baja Sur, on a beautiful 2 hr., 20 minute flight with outstanding scenery. From the ticket counter in LAX to the cabin of the 76-passenger plane, the Horizon Air staff made everyone feel like family with their gracious service.

My seat partner provided a wealth of information about living in La Paz. After over six years, she still loves to spend from three to six months out of every year there. Almost everyone on the plane had the same story: They can live on $800 per month while enjoying the beauty of Baja, the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific beaches. Many live in the sleepy towns of La Paz or Loreto (the historical capital of all the Californias: Baja California and the California now north of the border). They enjoy the hospitality of the half-million residents of the state, and they love the quiet and slow pace of Baja Sur. But amid all that quiet, visitors and part-time residents alike enjoy golf, fishing, island hopping, snorkeling, whale watching, kayaking, SCUBA diving and hiking. Even a bit of handicraft shopping: without the hustle or panhandlers, just the occasional friendly “hello” from shopkeepers and street vendors.

Upon arriving in La Paz, I was greeted by my host and driven a short way to the Grand Heritage Hotel part of the 550-acre CostaBaja Resort and Spa development. (See costabajaresort.com) This provided an overwhelming introduction, with an open-air reception area surrounded by a marina of beautiful yachts overlooked by the mountains and sun beaming over the water – all with a peaceful silence. Just beautiful. The entire complex is quite lovely, with service, quality and hospitality that make you feel like family. The CostaBaja Resort and Spa restaurant is named after John Steinbeck who loved Baja California. Their rooms are new and elegantly presented, with all the features you would want to have at home. And, from the balcony, those peaceful water views.

The CostaBaja Resort & Spa Costa Baja would be the perfect place to retire and enjoy all their amenities.

Next stop in the La Paz area was Playa de la Paz, an elegant development offering condos and casas to wandering Americanos looking for island living and a wonderful golf course.

This property offered a nearly 360-degree view of mountain, water-framing cacti and green fairways in the foreground.

(See playadelapaz.com) Although it was hard to leave the beautiful resorts of La Paz, it was time to head towards Todos Santos. Desert splendor accompanies the 51-mile drive across Baja from La Paz on the Sea of Cortez to Todos Santos on the Pacific, 78 miles north of Cabo San Lucas Mission Church in Todos Santos at Baja’s tip.

Todos Santos is quaint, inviting, and culturally hip in a Baja Sur sort of way. The surrounding area is also popular for surfing at beaches surrounded by the Sierra de la Lugana Mountains. Just walking around the shops and galleries one can enjoy the feeling of ‘old Mexico’. The traditional central plaza offers the Museo de Barrio par alas Artes Plasticas and many handicraft shops. I recommend a stop at the Mision de Nuestra Senora del Pilar, one of the first Jesuit Missions, established in 1697.

After touring the Hotel California, the most famous hotel in Todos Santos, we enjoyed lunch at the recently opened Guaycura Boutique Hotel & Spa. I was told this inviting boutique hotel was once the local police station.

After lunch we headed back to the eastern side of Baja to Loreto, the first See Baja, Page 15

Foreclosures, from page 8 debt, all indicators point in the right direction.

The trend for Notices of Default (the precursor to a foreclosure) in San Diego has fallen by a third in the last 24 months and is now at 2007 levels. This is due to multiple factors including: increased modifications / workouts with borrowers, most of the very toxic loans have already been foreclosed on, and a general improvement in the financial health of borrowers.

While not a very pleasant picture to recount, we are pleased with the general trends displayed in both markets and see 2011 as a pivotal year in the recovery.

Convinced by others that it would be worth the time and effort to make the drive from San Diego to the Los Angeles Garment District, I decided to visit at least once to see and understand why so many people were recommending this trip. Here’s what I discovered and would like to share with you.

The trip from Mission Valley to 9th Avenue, Los Angeles, is approximately 97 miles and takes 1 hour and 50 minutes, give or take, considering traffic and the time of day. This places you almost in the center of the Garment District, which is surrounded by the following: Jewelry District: Hill and Broadway streets between 5th & 8th Streets (start at St. Vincent Jewelry Center, located at 640 S. Hill Street).

Fashion District: 7th Street, a 90-block L.A. fashion district (start walking south to the Santa Monica Freeway, west to Main Street and east to San Pedro).

Textile Area: Between 8th Street and Olympic Boulevard, from Maple Avenue to San Julian Street.

L.A. Flower Market: 742 Maple Avenue and 745 Wall Street (One of the largest flower markets in the United States. Main entrance is on Wall Street between 7th & 8th Streets. Depending upon the day of the week, there might be a slight charge of $1 to $2 admission fee to visit this part of the downtown section. Hours vary from 6am or 8am to noon.)

Shopping Centers: 725 S. Figueroa Street (the downtown premier outdoor shopping area, with a shopping mall to keep you busy).

Little Tokyo: Broadway & Alameda Streets between 3rd Street and Temple Street (many retail shops and small Japanese restaurants).

Olvera Street: North Spring & Arcadia, North Alameda Street & Cesar Chavez Avenue (one of the oldest streets in the city of Los Angeles consisting of Mexican shops, restaurants and outdoor cafes —always a great experience).

Toy District: bounded by 3rd Street (North), San Pedro Street (East), 5th Street (South) and Werdin Place (West). (A great place to find all types of toys at great prices within a 12-square block.)

Chinatown: Cesar Chavez (South) to Bernard Street (North), Spring Street (East) to Hill Street (West). (Chinatown consists of over 25 blocks of shops, restaurants and old and new buildings. A wonderful place to walk and experience the antiquity of the area.)

We began our tour with Santee Alley, which kept us busy for a full five hours before heading back to San Diego. Restaurants were everywhere and low cost-shops selling things like suits, two for $100, and socks, 12 pairs for $10. You will find watches, shoes, clothes, belts, handbags, sunglasses, dresses, and jeans in almost every style and fashion you could ask for. Baseball caps from every team in the USA and t-shirts in many designs. Special discounts are also offered.

A few pieces of advice when Santee Alley: Located between Santee visiting the Garment District: Street and Maple Avenue (one of the most take CASH with you, negotiate popular shopping areas, with over 300 prices and have fun. I’ve been vendors); hours are 10 am to 5 pm. told that there are over 3,000 stores and 4,500 clothing lines available in a 100-block area in downtown Los Angeles. You just won’t be able to visit them all in one day. Before you head out, go to the L.A. Fashion District webpage and download a map and more information: www.fashiondistrict.org Enjoy!!! But you’d better plan to come back another day to further explore all those deals…

Dick Slaker is a travel writer living in San Diego, and can be reached at rslaker@cox.net.

Health Care Report, from page 5 only support the status quo, she argues that isn’t sustainable because of ballooning costs and unequal access to care.

“It [the money] goes into the system as it is, not into the system as it should be; that begs the question of what the system should be. The system should be far more efficient.”

The California Wellness Foundation and the California Endowment are examples of grant-makers who are deemed to be on the ‘right track.’ Langston says they dedicate money to help streamline health care delivery, to change laws and to make improvements in care for the poor, people of color, those with disabilities and Californians who live in areas with few doctors.

The study looked at 880 foundations and grant-makers that give to health care causes. The full report, “Towards Transformative Changes in Health Care,” is available at www.ncrp.org.

Charles Crooks

MissionValleyNews.com — May 2011

Page 13

PARK TO HAVE BETTER WIFI ACCESS THANKS TO GENEROUS DONATION The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation has contributed $100,000 to the Balboa Park Online Collaborative (BPOC) for its wireless network infrastructure project in Balboa Park, San Diego.

The funds will be used for the hardware and labor costs involved with building a pervasive public wireless network throughout the central Balboa Park campus where the vast majority of the Park’s museums and other cultural institutions are located. WiFi access will be free for San Diego residents and tourists, enriching their Park experience and connecting them to the Park’s cultural institutions, visitor resources, and each other.

“We see this as a strategic investment to significantly enhance the visitor experience in Balboa Park,” said Dr. Irwin Jacobs, co-founder of Qualcomm Incorporated, pioneer and world leader of Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) digital wireless technology.

“Since Qualcomm’s founding just over 25 years ago, the mobile phone, first used only for voice communications, has become an extraordinarily powerful mobile computer supported by wireless broadband communications -- the largest information platform in the history of humankind,” Dr. Jacobs said.

“It’s exciting to think about the applications of mobile technology that can now take place in Balboa Park, our city’s jewel.”

BPOC currently provides public wireless Internet access in six locations in Balboa Park. With the support from the Jacobs Fund, BPOC will continue to build out public wireless hot spots throughout 2011 and 2012, with the intent of having more than 250 access points deployed by fall of 2012. This initiative complements BPOC’s recently completed project to connect 14 buildings in the Park through high-speed fiber optic cable.

“This generous donation from the Jacobs family is an important component to our effort to make Balboa Park a relevant and exciting destination for 21st century visitors,” said Rich Cherry, BPOC director.

“Dr. Jacobs’ example as an entrepreneur, innovator, and philanthropist adds tremendous value to the San Diego region. I am so grateful for Joan and Irwin’s support of the local arts community, and particularly in Balboa Park, as we strive to meet the changing expectations of our audiences.”

‘BORN TO BE WILD’ OPENS AT REUBEN H. FLEET CENTER ON MAY 13 Latest IMAX® Documentary Narrated by Morgan Freeman Join IMAX and Warner Bros. Pictures on a miraculous journey of second chances when BORN TO BE WILD opens on May 13 at the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center. Follow these young orphaned elephants and orangutans on the trip of a lifetime, from birth to their rebirth into the wild. This family friendly documentary will transport moviegoers around the world to the far stretches of Kenya and Borneo and will inspire them to take action and save earth’s precious creatures.

Narrated by Academy-Award® winner Morgan Freeman, BORN TO BE WILD is an inspiring story of love, dedication and the remarkable bond between humans and animals. This film documents orphaned orangutans and elephants and the extraordinary people who rescue and raise them—saving endangered species one life at a time. Stunningly captured in IMAX, BORN TO BE WILD is a heartwarming adventure transporting moviegoers into the lush rainforests of Borneo with world-renowned primatologist Dr. Biruté Mary Galdikas, and across the rugged Kenyan savannah with celebrated elephant authority Dame Daphne M. Sheldrick, as they and their teams rescue, rehabilitate and return these incredible animals back to the wild.

“Spending so much time among the orphaned elephants and orangutans in this film was a life changing experience,” said Producer/Writer Drew Fellman.

“And IMAX makes it possible to share that wonder with the audience in a very profound way that takes us directly into the lives and struggles of these amazing animals.”

‘Chilling’ Exhibition Makes West Coast Debut From Polar Bears to Penguins opens May 14 at Natural History Museum As the world celebrates the 100-year anniversary of the Amundsen-Scott race for the South Pole, a new exhibition opening May 14 at the San Diego Natural History Museum explores Earth’s extreme—and extremely fragile— polar ends with stunning vistas, massive polar bears, comical penguins and brave explorers. “Ends of the Earth: From Polar Bears to Penguins” runs from May 14 through April 15, 2012.

“From Polar Bears to Penguins” is a hands-on, family-friendly exhibition that also faces head-on the serious threats of climate change and endangered species in a way that non-scientists can understand,” says Dr. Michael Hager, president and CEO of the Museum. Interactive games, mounted penguins and polar bears, videos, animal skulls, and authentic artifacts encourage visitors to explore the unique nature of Earth’s spectacular polar regions.

The Arctic section of the exhibition includes a real polar bear and other specimens of Arctic animals, a variety of bear skulls and an exhibit where visitors can compare their weight to that of a polar bear. Visitors can also run animations of seasonal sea ice movement to understand how climate change is affecting the Arctic landscape.

In San Diego, the exhibition is curated by Professor of Biology, Emeritus at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD, Gerald Kooyman, Ph.D. For more than 30 years, Kooyman has studied the behavioral, physiological, and anatomical adaptations of Antarctic marine animals. His work, both at Scripps Institute of Oceanography and in remote field locations, has broadened scientific understanding of the specialized adaptations of these aquatic mammals and birds and how they live and survive on the coldest, driest, and windiest continent.

The exhibition also explores the unique nature of the poles, exposes their fragility and illustrates why they are viewed as indicators of global climate change. According to the International Polar Year organization, the Polar Regions are presently changing faster than any other regions of the Earth, with local and global implications for communities, ecosystems and economies.

The San Diego Natural History Museum is the second oldest scientific institution in California and the third oldest west of the Mississippi. Founded in 1874 by a small group of citizen scientists, the Museum’s mission is to interpret the natural world through research, education and exhibits, to promote understanding of the evolution and diversity of Southern California and the peninsula of Baja California, Mexico, and to inspire in all people respect for the environment. Website: www.sdnhm.org.

FREE FAMILY FUN!

Page 14

92108, from page 5 or play areas), new families are finding ways to adapt. DiFilippi formed a mommy group in her community – an activity that her condo manager supported by placing flyers in elevators and the front office.

James Nienast, age 37, ex-carpenter With a volume of Shakespeare in front of him, James Nienast enjoys the peaceful, light-filled reading area at the Mission Valley library. At first glance, it is impossible to know that the quiet-spoken, Albertino Hernandez clean-shaven man is homeless. “I like the beautiful setting here,” he says. “It is very natural looking. The buildings are kept up and the population is pleasant.” He said he sees other homeless people at the library, but he keeps to himself. “Most homeless here are one to two people, instead of a group. We don’t really hang out together.”

Nienast gets by on EBT cards (formerly food stamps) and a little income that is sent to a P.O. Box. “I’ve never been able to ask for something,” says Nienast. “That makes it tough for me.” He adds that only a handful of the homeless are out on Sue-Ellen DiFilippi street corners with a cardboard sign. The presence of law enforcement is an advantage, says Nienast, “because there is no harassment [from others]. I have nothing to run from, nothing to hide.” For Nienast, Mission Valley is less about neighbors and more about community.

Mission Valley is a neighborhood of people who collectively thrive on what the community offers. It’s not just about one or two neighbors who flank your residence. Anonymity within commuJames Nienast nity makes everyone an equal. So, grab a coffee, a book, or a Swedish spatula.

Welcome, neighbor.

Elizabeth A. Berg is a freelance writer from the community of San Carlos.

MissionValleyNews.com — May 2011

Does Your Dog Bite?

By Sari Reis In the “Pink Panther Strikes Again,” Peter Sellers, as Inspector Clouseau, is standing at the front desk of a hotel and sees a dog lying by the front door. He asks the clerk, “Does your dog bite?” The man answers, “No.” Walking toward the door, Clouseau bends down to pet the dog; it growls and then bites him. Aghast, he exclaims, “I thought that you said your dog does not bite!” The man responds, “Oui, monsieur, but that is not my dog.”

The truth is that in the right set of circumstances ANY dog will bite. If a dog is in pain, is scared, is feeling cornered or is being provoked, it may bite.

The good news is that most dogs give clear signals beforehand and by knowing these signals you can prevent a bite from happening.

There are approximately 800,000 reported dog bites a year in the United States. 44,000 of these bites are facial injuries and 60% of dog bite victims are children. Most people think that dog biters are strays or trained guard dogs, but the truth is 77% of these bites are by friendly dogs known to the bite victim.

The dog bite problem has serious repercussions for both the victims and the dogs. The victims can carry physical and emotional scars for life; the dogs risk losing their homes and their lives. May 15 – 21, is Dog Bite Prevention Week so we would like to educate as many people as possible on how to avoid dog bites.

To educate the public on dog bite prevention, Teresa Lewin and Joan Orr cofounded the “Doggone Safe Program.” Presenters teach children what to do See Dog Bite, Page 15

Announcing the Myron B. Green Elementary Spring Swap Meet!

May 14, 2011 7AM-11AM 7030 Wandermere Drive, on the School Blacktop.

Come to SHOP!

Community members as well as local vendors will be participating. The PTA will have a booth selling Snacks, Drinks, and Cookbooks.

Come to SELL! Buy a space at our Swap Meet! Spaces are sold for $30 on a first come, first serve basis. We do the marketing, you keep all proceeds from your space.

Fill out the following to reserve your space:

Name:______________________________________ Phone Number or Email:_________________________ Address +Zip Code:____________________________ __________________________________________ Reserve Me # of 12’X24’ Spaces:______ @ $30 each Reserve Me # of Cookbooks______ @ $10 each Total Amount Enclosed:_____________ Please Make Check out to “Green Elementary PTA” and send to: 7030 Wandermere Drive San Diego, CA 92119 Thank You for Supporting Our School!

MissionValleyNews.com — May 2011

Letter to the Editor Subject: “Proposed Mission Valley Roadway...” (April 2011)

Page 15

Letters to the Editor are always welcome. Please sign them and provide us with an address so that we may contact you.

The front page article in your MAILING ADDRESS: April edition addressed the controMission Valley News versy about the possible road from the new Civita (Quarry Falls) housing 6549 Mission Gorge Road #199 development up to Phyllis Place San Diego 92120 in Serra Mesa. You cite the vastly FAX: differing opinions from the Serra Mesa and Mission Valley Planning 888-677-9535 Groups about the wisdom of putting EMAIL: that road in. Bruce Warren, head of the MV Planning Group proclaims the Info@MissionValleyNews.com Serra Mesa concerns are overblown: “Their fears aren’t valid. The road would have very little impact on existing development.”

I’m totally baffled as to what information or analyses Mr. Warren is using to make that claim. Many of us up here in Serra Mesa have campaigned vigorously against that road for several years as we realize the severely negative impact that road would have on our community.

Here are a few reasons why: • Putting that road in will lead to huge traffic congestion on Phyllis Place, along Murray Ridge Road and at both the north and southbound entries/ exits to Interstate 805. You’re looking at blocks of traffic backups and likely delays of 20-30 minutes getting to and from the freeway at rush hours. This will become one of the most monstrous traffic jams in the city.

Can you also see those gas gauges dropping steadily and exhaust fumes messing up the environment?

• A road from Quarry Falls would be going up very steep terrain. If you haven’t visited this area, I urge you to do so – and I bet you’d be incredulous that any planning analysts would possibly consider a road up this hill. As thousands of cars and trucks chug their way in a stop-and-go mode (which it’s bound to be) up the hill, you’re looking at major pollution and noise. This would also lead to serious degradation for residents of the Civita development itself. (Would you want to live anywhere near that road?)

• Putting this road in will lead to a major deterioration of the quiet community nature of Serra Mesa, to the Phyllis Place side in particular and to the older Serra Mesa side east of the freeway. It’s been a pleasant place to live for 50+ years; goodbye to that.

For these reasons and more, the Serra Mesa Community Planning Group, while supporting the Civita project, voted overwhelmingly against a road onto Phyllis Place. I realize many Mission Valley people, such as Mr. Warren, are in favor of this road, anything to help them get along Friars Road faster. However it is Serra Mesa, not Mission Valley that will be severely and negatively impacted if such a road is permitted.

Conclusion: no way should that road up to Phyllis Place be allowed to happen.

Tom Leech, Serra Mesa resident

BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU OFFERS SPEAKERS ON SCAMS The San Diego Better Business Bureau (BBB) has announced it has a Speakers Bureau with volunteers who are available to speak for free to breakfast and luncheon meetings of community groups, service organizations, churches and senior groups. The speech that BBB volunteers will deliver is titled, “The Top 10 Consumer Scams.” The topics to be discussed by BBB volunteers will include how to spot cons and recognize the telltale signs of scams, how to become a smart consumer and what free information and services are available from the BBB. To schedule a presentation, contact Sammie Bass, marketing and special events assistant at the BBB offices, (858) 6376199. The BBB says there is no stronger remedy for fraud than an educated consumer who refuses to be conned.

Dog Bite, from page 14 if a strange dog approaches them using a technique called, “Being a Tree”.

They are told to stand still, fold their branches (hands) in front of them, and look down at their roots (feet). The dog quickly loses interest in this stationary object and runs away. This is a skill that could save a serious injury. Another thing they learn is how to read a dog’s body language. Through a series of photographs and games, they learn to observe a dog’s eyes, lips and teeth, ear position, tail position, posture and so on. They are taught to recognize when a dog is happy and relaxed, and when he is aroused and should be left alone.

These lessons will help them with the family and neighbor’s dogs as well as any strange dogs they encounter. The San Diego Humane Society’s, outreach programs teach children these same skills as well as kindness and empathy towards animals.

Basic rules to prevent dog bites: NEVER leave a baby or young child with a dog unsupervised! Never look a strange dog in the eye. Never attempt to take away food or a toy from a dog displaying aggression. Never run from a strange dog. Be kind to your dog, show him or her respect and stay safe.

For more information please visit: www.doggonesafe.com and www.sdhumane.org. Also, to learn more about safety with dogs around infants and toddlers, go to www.thedabc.com.

Sari Reis is a Certified Humane Education Specialist and the Owner of Mission Valley Pet Sitting Services. For more information you can reach her at 760-644-0289 or www.missionvalleypetsitting.com.

Baja, from page 12 Spanish settlement and the historic capital of all the Californias. Loreto’s history began with pearl diving shortly after its discovery in 1533; permanent European settlement began in 1697, the start of its 80-year reign as the capital of California. Strolling the Loreto malecon (walking area) along the Sea of Cortez, enjoying the shopping and taking in a special Mexican-style luncheon, is a simple pleasure not soon forgotten.

You won’t find street vendors in Loreto hustling visitors to buy something; instead you’re more likely to find a nice lady, sitting in the doorway of her shop, happy to answer questions about the local curios available for sale. The atmosphere is very low-key and friendly, and the local residents are proud of this.

People who visit Loreto come for the pleasant surroundings, the lack of hustle and big carnival scenes, with more of an interest in hiking to Tabor, island hopping, snorkeling tours, whale watching, kayaking, scuba diving, fishing and of course touring its famous Mission. Finding a place to stay here is very easy.

There are many pleasant and reasonable hotels and resorts in the city and surrounding the city, most centered on the Sea of Cortez. All hotels can arrange tours for guests and their prices are very reasonable. We decided to go whale watching, and were able to quietly, from a respectful distance, observe baby whales being born in Magdalena Bay in the Lopez Mateos area.

Although we visited the Inn at Loreto Bay and the Oasis in downtown, we settled at The Mision, a beautiful, ocean-front complex with 66 spacious rooms overlooking the Sea of Cortez and surrounded by the Sierra de la Giganta mountains—one of the most uniquely situated properties in Baja Sur. Developer Scott Serven has restored The Mision, now a five-star hotel, and is currently adding four more condominiums on the top floor. (To find out more, go to www.lamisionloreto.com.)

Well Baja Sur, you’ve worked your magic on us. All we had to do was lay back and enjoy Mother Nature while being wined and dined from La Paz to Todos Santos to Loreto—truly a great treat. No wonder we found so many ‘gringos’ walking around those towns who live or retire there or frequently visit.

I’m just glad it’s only a two- hour flight on Horizon Air from Los Angeles to this “Place of Paradise.”

EDITOR’S NOTE: This part of Baja has not been experiencing the types of drug-trafficking-related crime reported in Northern Baja. However, it’s always a good idea to check current conditions on the State Department’s website anytime you plan travel outside of the U.S. (http://travel.state.gov/travel).

2011 MISSION VALLEY NEWS SCHEDULE

New publication date: 3rd Friday of each month Note: Deadlines are firm. No extensions.

Display ads & Business/Service Directory listings are paid in advance.

PUBLICATION DATE June 17 July 15 August 19 September 16 October 21 November 18 December 16

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Mission Valley News 6549 Mission Gorge Road #199, San Diego CA 92120 Phone: (619) 283-9747 • email: info@MissionValleyNews.com

Visit our website at: www.MissionValleyNews.com Editor: Pam Crooks, ext. 124 Publisher: Mission Publishing Group, LLC Advertising Consultants: Lionel Talaro, ext. 128 Regina Williamson, ext. 133

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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. © 2007–2011, all rights reserved.

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