Mission Times Courier - September 2014 by sdcnn

California legislators put water bond to the voters

Groff painting from Hemingway Street’s Open Space Park in San Carlos (Courtesy Larry Groff)

Local artist captures C beauty of San Carlos

Doug Curlee

Editor at Large

Ken Denbow

rtists create space with unique parameters and feelings. Authors J.K. Rowling in “Harry Potter” and J. R. R. Tolkien in “Lord of the Rings” created imaginary worlds where wizards, unicorns, Hobbits and dragons abound. Mark Twain, in “Huckleberry Finn,”

and Harper Lee, in “To Kill a Mockingbird,” view the “real world” through the eyes of a child to show the evils of slavery and racial stereotypes using humor and satire in the former and gripping drama in the latter. Da Vinci painted the “Mona Lisa,” an ordinary woman with an enchanting smile, which has fascinated viewers for 500 years. San Carlos resident and artist Larry Groff paints unique scenes

from San Diego, particularly the San Carlos community, that portray the beauty of the area infused with feelings ranging from the tranquility of a neighborhood with Cowles Mountain in the background to the frenetic interchanges of the Grossmont freeway overpass. His talent was recently recognized at his first one-man show at Prince Street See ARTIST page 23

‘Megadorm’ will stay Jeremy Ogul Contributing Editor

hey did everything they could to stop it, but neighbors in the Rolando area southeast of San Diego State will have to live with BLVD63, a new 332-unit luxury apartment complex on El Cajon Boulevard. Nearly a year of legal wrangling among neighborhood homeowners, the city of San Diego and developer Carmel Partners ended in late August with a judge’s ruling that the project was not a

dormitory and that the neighbors’ environmental claims were barred by a statute of limitations. Tenants — mostly students — began moving into the apartments in late August, before Judge Katherine Bacal made the final ruling in the case. A group of neighbors calling themselves Rolandans for Quality Infill Development sued the city and the developer last fall, alleging that the city did not follow its own procedures requiring extensive community review for studentSee MEGADORM page 18

alifornia legislators have provided the state’s voters with the chance to decide whether the decision to pass a 7.5 billion dollar bond to repair California’s decrepit water system was a wise choice or not. The bond issue will appear as Proposition 1 on the Nov. 4 general election ballot. Legislators say they think the bond issue will pass, if for no other reason than the fact that the ongoing drought the state is embroiled in will make up their minds for BILLION them. Cost of Although the Gov. Jerry state Senate Brown’s passed the bill plan to 37-0 and only build two Assembly tunnels members voted under the against it, that Delta does not mean there is unanimous support for all of the issues in that bond. There were compromises made all through the yearlong process that upset as many people as they made happy. Three questions will dominate the debate as it moves toward Election Day:

$25

Who’s in favor? Students began moving into BLVD63 last month. (Photo by Jeremy Ogul)

Most of what’s called the water See WATER page 5

Grantville redevelopment proceeding slowly Doug Curlee Editor at Large

T An outline of the Grantville redevelopment project. (City of San Diego)

he city’s plan to recreate the image of Grantville as an urban infill full of homes, apartments, condos and stores is moving along the tracks laid down by the city’s planners. It’s actually moving along the tracks of the San Diego Trolley as it winds its way from Santee all the way through Mission Valley. A ride along that route shows you

exactly what planners have in mind as you see the apartments, condos and businesses surrounding almost every other trolley stop on the route. There are a couple of potential roadblocks standing in the way of all this. A group called the Grantville Action Group has been loud and persistent in saying its supporters like Grantville just the way it is. The group sued and lost in a challenge of where redevelopment money See GRANTVILLE page 19

Mission Times Courier

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014

EDUCATION

Magnolia Science Academy celebrates a decade of educational excellence B.J. Coleman

agnolia Science Academy is a San Carlos middle school celebrating its tenth anniversary of student instruction emphasizing science, technology, engineering and mathematics curricula. Any endeavor enduring for a decade must be doing something right. This entity is no exception: It continues to excel at educating students in sixth, seventh and eighth grades through objectives built on the scientific method. The school’s principal, Gokhan Serce, although trained as a mathematician, speaks about his school’s successes in terms of not only data and numbers, but also individual growth and personal goals of all those involved in the school. The 2014 – 2015 school year is Serce’s first as principal, having served last year as the school’s assistant principal. Enrollment stands at 372 pupils, and the year kicked off with pilot testing of Chromebook laptop computers for in-class use. By the end of September, students will each have access to a Chromebook in the classroom. Student notes and assignments are stored on personal network accounts, which the children may log into from their home computers as well. The school follows the Common Core Instruction program, with academic enrichment subjects of math, English, science and history. Electives available are foreign language study — Spanish, French and Turkish — as wells as arts or band. Character education merges with the college preparatory nature of Magnolia in the “Get Ready for Life” coursework, asking students to ponder what kind of people they want to become and how they plan to achieve their life goals. Sports include archery, soccer, flag football and basketball. Extracurricular clubs run the gamut of subjects taught, and

each Magnolia teacher commits to leading at least two beyondclass activities, whether clubs or after-school tutoring sessions. A California public charter school operates under a specific written agreement typically renewed every five years, called “the charter,” which permits the school greater operational autonomy in exchange for more accountability to its authorizing agency (usually its local school

in the student’s home to get to know the family and their homelife circumstances. The San Diego school is one among a chain organized through the Magnolia Educational and Research Foundation, which is headquartered in Westminster, California. Two TurkishAmerican professors from Los Angeles started the Magnolia Foundation and its first school in 2002 in Reseda. The foundation

(above) Middle-school students at Magnolia Science Academy in San Carlos receive classroom instruction; (left) Principal Gokhan Serce beams alongside the middle school’s trophy showcase highlighting the students’ recent honors and accomplishments. (Photos by B.J. Coleman)

district). Magnolia’s charter, which will require renewal in 2015, sets the school’s distinctive characteristics through emphasis on integrating science, technology, engineering and mathematics with the arts. Its charter discusses the importance of parent involvement and communication to student learning. Magnolia’s charter further requires that short home visits be made available to parents, in which at least two school officials spend no longer than 15 minutes

oversees eleven public charter schools in California, eight in the Los Angeles area, claiming the goal of graduating “scientific thinkers that contribute to the global community as socially responsible and educated members of society.” Principal Serce describes the school’s relationship with the San Diego Unified School District as cordial, mutually supportive and collaborative. This is in contrast to the current legal conflict in which staff members of the Los Angeles Unified School District abruptly yanked charter renewals for two Magnolia schools, citing financial mismanagement. Administrators from the foundation and schools See MAGNOLIA page 7

EDUCATION Patrick Henry alumni bring classes into the 21st century

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014 Mission Times Courier sdcnn.com

Elizabeth

Gillingham

magine trying to teach students about computer applications and programming with machines that are seven or eight years old. Software freezes or spinningwheel icons showing as students wait to connect to the Internet were just some of the issues found in teacher Roger Jaffe’s (Class of ’79) classes. Fortunately, through the kindness of the Alumni Association, Patrick Henry High School (PHHS) received 18 brand new laptops to help the cause! The Alumni Foundation is headed by President Kevin Carlson (’78), and through his efforts and the help of classmates from various PHHS class years, the association has raised over $128,000 in just under two years. Mr. Carlson and the Alumni Association have supported PHHS by donating their time and expertise, leveraging other alumni and business partners for donations and support, organizing an annual golf tournament, collecting auction items, finding sponsors, attending planning meetings and rallying former students from all class years to support the school. Through their efforts PHHS’s gym now has glass basketball backboards; new basketballs and storage racks for both the boys and girls teams;

An artist’s rendering of PHAME Performing Arts Center. (Patrick Henry High School Alumni Association)

The Alumni Foundation has raised over $128,000 in just under two years. music risers for the choral class; uniforms for golf, soccer, basketball, field hockey, cross country, cheer and other sport teams through grant requests; $36,000 towards the new Performing Arts Center (PHAME); new instruments for the band and orchestra; college scholarships for students in each of the last three graduating classes, along with teacher appreciation support. Special thanks to the Alumni

Association Board: John Walker (’79), Rick Johnson (’78), Mike Nokes (’78), Mike Rinehart (’82), Karen LeRebius-Gilbert (’78), and Scott Flaming (’78). All alumni are asked to show their support of PHHS by attending the Annual Golf Tournament & Reunion BBQ that is scheduled for May 14, 2015 at Admiral Baker Golf Club. This event serves as a reunion for all PHHS graduates and includes a barbeque at the end of the day for those who want to help but don’t play golf. Entertainment is provided by the current PHHS band and cheerleaders. For more information contact Kevin Carlson at kcarlson@missionjanitorial.com or visit PatriotAlumni.org.

How Owners Lose Thousands When Selling Their Homes San Diego – A new report has just been released which reveals 7 costly mistakes that most homeowners make when selling their home, and a 9 Step System that can help you sell your home fast and the most amount of money. This industry report shows clearly how the traditional ways of selling homes have become increasingly less and less effective in today’s market. The fact of this matter is that fully three quarters of homesellers don’t get what they want for their homes and become disillusioned and worse financially disadvantaged when they put their homes on the market. As this report uncovers, most homesellers make 7 deadly mistakes that cost them literally thousands of dollars. The good news is that each and every one of these mistakes is entirely preventable. In answer to this issue, industry insiders have prepared a free special report entitles “The 9 Step System to Get your Home Sold Fast and For Top Dollar”. To order your FREE copy of this report, call toll-free 1-800270-1494 and enter 1000. You can call anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free special report Now to find out how you can get the most money for your home.

—Elizabeth Gillingham is the principal of Patrick Henry High School.u

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Mission Times Courier

FEATURE

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014

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an Diego’s only “adaptive” golf tournament will be held Sept. 25 at the Cottonwood Golf Club in El Cajon. Sponsored by the San Diego Rehabilitation Institute at Alvarado Hospital, this oneof-a-kind event pairs golfers with physical challenges with able-bodied players to increase awareness about golf as a therapeutic tool — especially for those who have survived a stroke, traumatic brain injury or amputation. “The SoCal Rehab Golf Classic is a unique tournament to the San Diego Area,” said Mary Williams, event co-chair and therapeutic recreation coordinator at Alvarado Hospital. “We promote restorative golf programs for golfers of all physical abilities.” The tournament provides an opportunity to play in a recreational and competitive event. The Alpine Physical Therapy and Wellness Center Inc. team competes in a It is a four-player scramble previous SoCal Rehab Golf Classic. (Courtesy Alvarado Hospital) format. Teams will be comprised Institute at Alvarado Hospital nity to come out and participate of at least two individuals with a can be proud of the high-caliber in this life-changing event.” physical challenge. Participants tournament that they orchesTo participate in the tourwill play nine holes on a regula- trate for adaptive golfers and nament, learn about adaptive tion course. Golfers with physical their supporters in Southern golf as a therapeutic tool and challenges will have the option California,” said John Klein, PGA upcoming golf events, call Mary to play from designated forward Professional, who facilitates the Williams at 619-229-7362 or visit tees. annual event and adaptive golf AlvaradoHospital.com.u “The San Diego Rehabilitation clinics. “I encourage the commu-

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LOCAL NEWS

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014 Mission Times Courier sdcnn.com Water, from page 1

Rep. Susan Davis speaks in Talmadge. (Photo by Jeremy Ogul)

No mail at the door Local representatives debate changes to mail delivery

ugly utility boxes, cluster boxes Jeremy Ogul would affect property values, Contributing Editor Granowitz said. “Just think if you would want he U.S. Postal Service delivers this in front of your house,” she mail to the front door of most said. “Don’t do this to us, please.” The Postal Service has already Uptown residents, but that could change if Congress adopts a postal begun phasing out door delivery reform bill designed to reduce the in new developments, but Issa’s legislation would essentially make cost of delivering mail. Rep. Darrell Issa (R-San Diego) cluster boxes mandatory in many has introduced two bills — the neighborhoods that currently Postal Reform Act of 2013 and the receive door delivery. Issa’s bill would require the Secure Delivery cluster boxes to be for America Act of placed “in locations 2014 — that would that maximize force the Postal delivery efficiency, Service to transiease of use for tion away from postal patrons, and door delivery at 30 respect for private million addresses property rights.” by 2022. Instead Rep. Scott Peters of delivering mail (D-San Diego), who to the door of every also spoke at the residence, postal press conference, carriers would said that while deliver to curbside there are economic mailboxes or cen- -Rep. Susan Davis challenges that tralized cluster the Postal Service boxes that house the mailboxes must address, Congress should of multiple residents. That idea is unacceptable to Rep. not get involved in mandating Susan Davis (D-San Diego), who the specific measures the Postal gathered a group of supporters in Service should take. Issa disagrees with Davis and Talmadge on Aug. 27 to denounce the proposal. She also introduced Peters. “The consequence of doing notha resolution in Congress opposing ing to address an Internet-era centralized delivery. “We don’t need this,” Davis erosion in the volume of traditional said. “The most vulnerable mail delivery is a multi-billion people in our communities will dollar taxpayer funded bailout of the Postal Service,” Issa said. suffer as a result.” Davis said elderly and disabled “Unfortunately, some [representacitizens would be hurt by the tives] holding a press conference switch to cluster boxes, especially and pretending there isn’t a probif they receive prescriptions by lem won’t solve it.” The Postal Reform Act includes mail, because of the increased distance they may be forced to travel exceptions and provisions that would allow seniors and others to retrieve their mail. Furthermore, the cluster boxes with physical hardships to keep are unsightly magnets for theft their door delivery if they already have it, and it would give the and vandalism, she said. When Davis surveyed commu- Postal Service the flexibility to nity groups in her district earlier determine where to implement this summer, the North Park centralized delivery, Issa said. “In reality, less than 10 percent Planning Committee passed a resolution opposing centralized of postal customers would see any change under this legislation to delivery. “In the older communities in their delivery,” Issa said. Despite the financial issues the mid-city, cluster boxes would affect the community character the Postal Service faces, the and the historicity of a neighbor- debate over cluster boxes may hood like Talmadge, which to me amount to little more than hot looks like Mayberry,” said Vicki air in the near term. Congress Granowitz, chair of the North only has until Dec. 12 to act Park Planning Committee. “It’s on legislation in the current intact, it’s beautiful, and to have session. Most of which will be cluster boxes every so often really legislative recess. Neither the destroys what these communities House of Representatives nor the Senate have voted on Issa’s look like.” Combined with bus shelters and or Davis’s legislation.u

“We don’t need this. The most vulnerable people in our communities will suffer as a result.”

bureaucracy in California is in favor of the bond issue’s passage. Most of the state’s water districts, including the San Diego County Water Authority, have come out in support of the measure. There is an umbrella organizations of those agencies, the Association of California Water Agencies, which will no doubt bring in public support of the measure. Since agencies like SDCWA are public agencies, they cannot contribute money or take active roles in the Yes on Proposition 1 campaign. This is not to say that individuals associated with the public agencies cannot take individual roles, including personal financial roles. They can, and many will.

Who’s against it? No one is predicting a landslide victory, because there is still a lot of opposition to the measure in the north central and northern parts of the state. Longtime observers will recall that a northsouth split was the major reason the proposed Peripheral Canal was defeated at the polls back in the 1980s. In truth, much of that opposition is centered in the areas generally surrounding the old and fragile Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, which is the hinge point for moving water from the north to the south. It’s hard to determine whether the opponents fear this bond issue and what it might bring, or whether their complaints are more aimed at Gov. Jerry Brown’s ambitious $25 billion plan to build two free-

way-sized tunnels underneath the Delta, to make it easier to ship water from the Sacramento River south without damaging the Delta further. The bond issue apparently contains absolutely no mention of — and no money for — anything to do with the tunnels. There is also opposition in the north and central coastal areas, where some water officials say storage facilities — dams and reservoirs — for them were left out completely. One new dam and reservoir, the Sites Dam, is slated for Northern California, near Colusa, and another at Temperance Flat, northeast of Fresno. They will account for $2.7 billion of the $7.5 billion called for in the ballot measure. That leaves almost $5 billion to be spent on a laundry list of other water-related projects to make the state’s water supply more stable and available in the future.

What’s in it for San Diego? Quite a bit, actually, and very little of it for surface storage of water. San Diego County is in pretty good shape for dams and reservoir capacity. Having doubled the capacity of San

Vicente, the dam at Olivenhain, Sweetwater Reservoir and other areas here, we have places to put water. We just need the water to put in those places. We also have hundreds of thousands of acre feet of water through the deal with Imperial Irrigation District and the Carlsbad Desalination plant coming online next year. The bond issue would provide money statewide for water recycling, including drinkable and non-drinkable water reclamation and purification. It would provide funding for integrated regional water management projects, including groundwater storage, recharging our depleted underground aquifers and the like. A large number of waterrelated projects called for in the ballot measure would directly benefit our region, and San Diego will have a fair shot at a lot of that money. Our region will qualify for about 11 percent of that $7.5 billion. Bonus: Will all this happen quickly if the bond is passed come Nov. 4? No. Passage of the Proposition on Nov. 4 will not mean that people will start moving dirt and building dams the morning of Nov. 5. It will be a tough slog setting up the various boards, commissions and entities that will eventually govern all of this spending, and it will be more involved — and political — than you’d like to believe. That story next month.u

A Special

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Mission Times Courier

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014

OPINION

sdcnn.com

Support carbon pollution limits for power plants Harold P. Wimmer Few things are more frightening for a parent than racing to the hospital with a child who can’t breathe. Few things are more difficult for a physician than telling a family that a loved one will not recover from an asthma attack. We work with people who know those experiences far too well, and because of those experiences, we support reducing carbon pollution. The American Lung Association and the American Thoracic Society members and its volunteers understand the impact of polluted air. We know that, as a nation, we have to do more to protect the ability of people to breathe, and that requires us to reduce carbon pollution from power plants. It isn’t enough for physicians to educate patients about the health risks of air pollution, and for parents to keep their chil-

More than 147 million Americans (nearly half of the U.S. population) still live where the air is unhealthy to breathe. dren with asthma indoors on bad air days. We must reduce pollution before it takes a further toll on our children and families. As a nation, we have cut air pollution by over 70 percent since 1970, but today more than 147 million Americans (nearly half of the U.S. population) still live where the air is unhealthy to breathe. Warmer tempera-

tures from climate change will make it even harder to reduce air pollution in many places, and increase the likelihood of drought, wildfires and other threats to our health. Fortunately, we can fight those threats. Recently, hundreds of people attended public hearings hosted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in Denver, Atlanta, Pittsburgh and Washington, DC to speak out in support of the proposed Clean Power Plan to place first-ever limits on power plant carbon pollution. They spoke up because they recognize that reducing carbon pollution benefits the health of communities across the nation. The EPA’s Clean Power Plan provides states with tools to reduce the carbon pollution from power plants by 30 percent, moving us forward in the fight against climate change. But the plan would do more than that. When fully implemented,

the carbon reduction plan will also reduce lethal air pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide and mercury by 25 percent, preventing up to 6,600 premature deaths and 150,000 asthma attacks in children each year. The plan would also help prevent heart attacks, hospital admissions and missed days of work or school due to illness. Public health experts call this “prevention.” For the rest of us, it’s just simple common sense. That is why both our organizations support the EPA’s efforts to establish national limits on carbon pollution. If we as a nation act responsibly now to reduce carbon pollution, we can simultaneously improve our air quality now and prevent many of the adverse health and environmental impacts for future generations. —Harold P. Wimmer is national president and CEO of the American Lung Association.u

Say ‘yes’ to water bond or suffer the consequences Jim Madaffer “Serious drought. Help save water.” We see lit-up signs with these five words everywhere in California. More importantly, we feel the effects of this “serious” drought and mandatory water restrictions that have come with the problem. But to say it’s a “serious” drought is an understatement. The country’s most populous state is suffering through the most severe drought in modern history, with scientists warning of a “megadrought” if California doesn’t take action. Investing in our water infra-

structure is crucial for a state that supplies half the country’s fruits, vegetables and nuts, and will be home to 60 million people by 2050. The state Legislature made tremendous headway this month when it passed a $7.5 billion water bond package to be known as Proposition 1 on November’s ballot. The deal is the largest investment the state has proposed since the $1.75 billion State Water Project in 1960. The money will go toward dams, groundwater, recycling, water quality and watershed improvement — and more, throughout the state — all designed to improve and stabilize California’s water supply. In San Diego, we’ll benefit from

Diego River Conservancy The future of California’s water supply is now in the hands of its citizens. Voters have the responsibility of passing Proposition 1 in November, or the passage of the ballot measure we must suffer the consequences in a number of ways, including: of a drying Golden State. $1.5 billion for water recycling —Jim Madaffer is a San Diego and water treatment technology $52.5 million for regional water County Water Authority board director, former San Diego City management projects $100 million for water-use effi- Councilmember and president of Madaffer Enterprises. He uses ciency projects $17 million for the San water daily.u

NEWS

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014 Mission Times Courier sdcnn.com

SDPD reports robberies in Allied Gardens On Sept. 16, San Diego Police Department Officer Adam McElroy reported several crimes in two separate posts on community social media site nextdoor. com. In early September, two Allied Gardens homes were burgled after suspects entered through doggy doors in each home. Witnesses at each incident reported seeing a tall, middleaged white man, although the suspect’s vehicle differs in the two cases. In a separate post on nextdoor. com, McElroy reported two vehicles broken into around Cowles Mountain on the evening of Sept. 6. The following morning, two more vehicles were discovered with their windows smashed and ransacked of valuables. McElroy said anyone with information these crimes should contact Detective Hone at 858-495-7246, and to call 619531-2000 if you spot suspicious persons or activity.

The Boo is back On Oct. 25, The Boulevard BOO! Parade returns to El Cajon Boulevard for it’s 10th anniversary. This free, family-friendly event will take over the College Area with floats, zombies and costumes for what it calls the biggest costume party in San Diego. The parade begins at 10 a.m. on El Cajon Boulevard, running east from 59th Street to Aragon Drive. Roads are expected to be closed from 9:30 a.m. – noon.

Drivers are recommended to use Collwood Boulevard or 70th Street instead. The festival is known for its emphasis on costumes and reoccurring parade figures, such as Mr. BOO!, Frankie Steinberg, Bob Damask and Gilda Ghoul. The College Area Business District, the organization behind the parade, stated there are still sponsorship, volunteer and participant opportunities available. Visit collegeareabid.com/boo for more information.

Milestone passed in Del Cerro undergrounding project In late August, the community celebrated as the last utility pole was removed in a project to move 2.7 miles of overhead utility lines underground. The project is part of a citywide “undergrounding” effort led by residents claiming utility boxes and lines are eyesores that take away space for potential community amenities. The city typically partners with utility owners SDG&E, AT&T and Cox Communications during these projects. Councilmember Scott Sherman’s office said that this particular undergrounding project will result in 42 new streetlights, 58 pedestrian ramps and nearly 140 newly planted trees. “I grew up just down the street from this neighborhood and I am proud to see that investing into our communities is continuing to move ahead at full speed,”

Sherman stated in a press release. Visit SanDiego.gov/undergrounding to learn about other ongoing undergrounding projects.

Local dog rescue shelter honored College Area’s Southern California German Shepard Rescue recently earned third place in the “2014 Dirty Dogs Makeover Contest,” a photography competition in the “One Picture Saves a Life” campaign, which aims to spur pet adoption through photography and grooming. Organized by WAHL and GreaterGood.org, the contest received hundreds of beforeand-after submissions before award-winning pet photographer Seth Casteel chose 25 transformations as finalists. A public vote decided the top three winners. Southern California German Shepard Rescue, a nonprofit based in the College Area, will receive a $1,000 cash grant from GreaterGood.org and WAHL. To learn more about them, visit socalrescue.org.

Fletcher launches veteran-supporting nonprofit Former California assemblymember and Marine Corps veteran Nathan Fletcher recently announced the launch of the Three Wise Men See NEWS page 11

Magnolia, from page 2 successfully advocated for a judge-ordered preliminary injunction barring the nonrenewals, which allowed the two L.A. schools to start their academic years on Aug. 12 as scheduled. At the San Diego school, Serce takes effort to make the parents feel connected. He wrote the parent’s a letter at the beginning of this year. “The 2013 – 2014 school year was the most successful in the school’s history and we look forward to continuing to grow upon that success,” Serce wrote. Among those awards and recognitions are the “InfoMatrix” Bronze Medal at the International Robotics Competition, third place at the National Rubber Band Design Competition, First Place for “California’s Future City” contest and Third Place in Sen. Barbara Boxer’s Earth Day Poster Contest. Magnolia students have taken other top trophies in San Diego and within the Magnolia Public Schools system. Additionally, 70 of Magnolia Science Academy’s students participated in the San Diego Science and Engineering Festival Expo Day at PETCO Park, more than any other middle school in the area. Compared to other California schools last year, Magnolia Science Academy earned an Academic Performance Index score of 847, ranking better than 72.2 percent of middle schools in California. The San Carlos school

also ranked ninth among 32 middle schools in the San Diego Unified School District. The average class size at Magnolia is 22 students. As expected because of the school’s focus, their mathematics and science test scores outperform other San Diego and California middle schools, but Magnolia students also outrank their peers in English language arts and history/social science tests. Testing nearly 20 percent higher than their contemporaries, according to the Department of Education, English learners at Magnolia are fast outpacing others in San Diego and statewide. Earlier in the year, two-thirds of the teachers and administrators from North Elementary School in Cedar City, Utah, visited Magnolia San Diego for “professional development” inquiry sessions into the San Carlos school’s best practices in STEM curricula and culture. North Elementary Principal Ray Whittier told local media in Utah after his visit that he came away impressed with the difference between his school’s focus on teaching accurate scientific facts with Magnolia’s emphasis on training students in how to approach questions with scientific thinking. Magnolia Science Academy is located at 6365 Lake Atlin Ave. —B.J. Coleman is a writer in San Diego. Contact her at barshajo@aim.com.u

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Mission Times Courier

PETS

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014

‘Oh where, oh where has my little dog gone?’ Sari

Reis

he only thing more devastating to a pet parent than when their furry kid is missing is to have them never return. Yet this sad scenario occurs every day. Walk through any neighborhood and you will see the signs posted on trees and telephone poles, “Missing! Our beloved dog Skippy”. These heartrending pleas for help are always accompanied by a photograph of a sweet furry face and the offer of a reward for their return. As pet parents one of our primary responsibilities is to keep our pets safe. To do this we need to keep them securely confined in our homes, our backyards, or on leashes. If your dog has access to the backyard, be certain it is entirely fenced in with no potential escape routes. Make sure all gates are locked when you or anyone else goes in or out. Inform pool service people, landscapers or gardeners that you have a dog in the yard and the gate must be secured at all times. Be particularly careful when entering or leaving your home. Open doors slowly, to ensure a cat or dog is not lurking nearby ready to make a quick escape. Never leave the door open for any length of time. Even an indoor kitty may be curious if the door is left open for a minute or two. Tell visitors, cleaning ladies, and anyone else who may have access to your home that you have pets and they are not to be let out. Some people like to give their dogs off-leash time on city streets in their neighborhoods. They believe their pup is well-trained and will come on command and not run away. But the sight of a

(ThinkStock)

One out of three pets will go missing during their lifetime. squirrel or stray cat can waylay the best trained dog and send them on a chase. Many of these dogs never make it back home. There are also those feline parents who believe it is essential to a cat’s well-being for them to investigate and play outdoors. Although the kitties may enjoy outdoor time, it is very dangerous. With rattlesnakes, coyotes, stray dogs and traffic, many outdoor kitties never make it home again and soon become one of those sad notices posted on a tree. Even with the best intentions, our pets may still make an escape. Your best opportunity in getting them back is to ensure they can be identified. Put an ID

Adopt a pet L

tag on their collar listing your name and phone number and microchip them. Although there are numerous companies that offer microchips and monitoring services, one of the best is “Home Again.” If you do microchip your pet, remember to notify the manufacturer if you move or change your phone number. Although the cost of micro-chipping is very reasonable, many shelters and veterinary clinics hold special micro-chipping days so you can get your pets done for a discounted price. Having your pet micro-chipped greatly increases the potential of getting him home again. Can you actually put a price tag on that? “Home Again” stated that one out of three pets will go missing during their lifetime. Make sure that one isn’t yours. —Sari Reis is a Certified Humane Education Specialist and the owner of Mission Valley Pet Sitting Services. For more information please contact her at 760-644-0289 or missionvalleypetsitting.com.u

Looking for a home

Lucille

Breed: Labrador Retriever / ucille, a 5-year-old spayed Labrador Australian Cattle Dog mix Retriever/Australian Cattle Dog mix, is an energetic lady with tons of love to give her Age: 5 years old new family. She has a friendly personality Gender: Female (spayed) with everyone she meets, and loves to learn Colors: Black and White new tricks. She already knows commands ID#: 142265 such as sit, down, shake, crawl, beg and is Adoption Fee: $95.00 currently learning how to wave “bye-bye.” She is very treat-motivated and eager to please. She is very smart and outgoing and has gotten along well with other dogs on social walks. This silly girl is always smiling and ready for a new adventure. Born a true athlete, she would love to participate in future training and would make an excellent workout partner. Adequate exercise and mental stimulation are a must for this spirited lady. Lucille will do best in an active home with older children or adults. She has a lot of love to give and may benefit from having another dog in the family, as long as she meets them first to make sure they’re a good match. Her adoption fee includes her spay, current vaccinations, permanent microchip identification, a certificate for a free veterinary exam, 30 days of complimentary medical insurance and a license for residents of Oceanside or Vista. Lucille is available for adoption at the San Diego Humane Society, 5500 Gaines St. in San Diego. To learn more about Lucille, call 619-299-7012.u S.D. Humane Society & SPCA 5500 Gaines St. (92110) 619-299-7012 | sdhumane.org

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MISSION TRAILS NEWS

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014 Mission Times Courier sdcnn.com

October observations at Mission Trails Regional Park Audrey F.

Baker

n nature, autumn signals a time of bustling preparations for upcoming winter months. Amid October’s lower temperatures, sound waves travel more easily through the air, presenting a heightened opportunity to focus on animal activity. So, ratchet up your listening powers and relish a fuller experience of nature’s vignettes unfolding around you. The snap of a twig may reveal a Mule Deer (Odocoileus hemionus) grazing just behind the foliage lining the trail. Tracing a pecking sound to a granite boulder may expose an American Crow (Corvus brachyrhynchos) using the surface as an anvil, as he cracks an acorn underfoot by hammering it with his beak. A low and hoarse croaking sound recently alerted fellow Trail Guide David Cooksy to the obscured presence of a Great Egret (Ardea alba), and enabled him to capture its ascending flight over Kumeyaay Lake.

The sound of rustling leaf litter brought into the open a California Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus beecheyi) mapping a route to the seed bouquets of a Laurel Sumac. Who knows? Maybe this month your adventures at Mission Trails will lead to a glimpse of your favorite Halloween critter—be it coyote, raven, owl or bat—or doing what comes naturally! Our MTRP Trail Guide walks

Scenes from Mission Trails Regional Park (Photos courtesy MTRP Foundation)

are an opportunity to learn more about natural Southern California, with its unique landscapes, habitats, local history and diverse plant and animal life. The walks are free, interesting, factfilled and geared to all ages and interests. Grab sturdy shoes, that comfortable hat, water bottle and sunscreen and hit the trail! Morning walks are offered every Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday, 9:30 - 11 a.m. You’ll start from the park’s Visitor and Interpretive Center, One Father Junipero Serra Trail, San Carlos. The walk beginning from the Kumeyaay Lake Campground Entry Station, Two Father Junipero Serra Trail, at the San Carlos-Santee border, gives a different perspective of the park and its diverse habitats. These walks are offered from 8:30 to 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, and take in historic Old Mission Dam. Wildlife Tracking reveals the secret lives of animals and brings insight into their survival techniques and habits. Tracking Team members assist in indentifying and interpreting tracks, scat and habitats. Join us at 8:30 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 4 in front of the Visitor Center for a two-hour tracking adventure. Discovery Table: Bird Beaks familiarizes you with the wide

variety of beak shapes and sizes, their specialized features and how a bird’s beak enhances its wearer’s lifestyle. Test your skill matching beak to bird! Inside the Visitor Center, Saturday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Bird Kumeyaay Lake with MTRP Resident Birder Jeanne Raimond in search of migrant and local bird species that populate the lake and its varied surrounding habitats. Jeanne recommends binoculars and bird book. See you Saturday, Oct. 18, 8 – 10 a.m. We meet in the day-use parking lot, Kumeyaay Campground Entry Station. Star Party Luminaries sparkle under park skies. MTRP Resident Star Gazer George Varga tells us the highpositioned Summer Triangle will afford viewing of the Ring Nebula (M57), binary star Albireo in Cygnus and the Dumbbell Nebula (M27). Join us as he scopes in these and multiple clusters. See you Saturday, Oct. 18 between 6 – 9 p.m. at the far end of the Kumeyaay Campground Day Use Parking Lot. (The event will be canceled in the event of clouds or rain.) La Mesa Walk ‘n Talk is an opportunity to walk scenic shores with your MTRP Trail Guide as we “chat up” the historical and geographical changes that produced glistening Lake Murray and fueled

the creation of our ecological and recreational gem. Tuesday, Oct. 21, 9 – 10:30 a.m. We meet at the boat docks, Lake Murray, 5540 Kiowa Drive, La Mesa.

Birding Basics, the 90-minute class conducted by Mission Trails Bird Guide Winona Sollock, teaches five simple techniques to identify birds “at a glance!” You’ll also pick up tips on bird field guide use. (Bringing one is optional.) Class meets on Saturday, Oct. 25 from 1 – 2:30 p.m. inside the Visitor Center. Meanwhile, come on out and enjoy the park! Visit mtrp.org for more information and our events calendar, or call 619-668-3281. Special walks can be arranged for any club, group, business or school by contacting Ranger Chris Axtmann at 619-6682746 or at caxtmann@ mtrp.org. —Audrey F. Baker is a trail guide at Mission Trails Regional Park.u

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10 Mission Times Courier

DINING

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Tribute to a bygone amusement park Frank

Sabatini Jr.

ocal restaurateurs Brendan Huffman and Mina Desiderio have brought attention to a longforgotten amusement park that operated briefly in Ocean Beach. Not far from their second-floor Wonderland Ocean Pub stood Wonderland, a nine-acre plot that featured a racing rollercoaster, formal ballroom and zoological gardens. It opened in 1913 and lapsed into foreclosure a couple years later as the Panama-California Exposition in Balboa Park stole attendance. Today, its legacy is captured through a few blown-up photographs strewn throughout the massive pub, which looks down onto the spirited sands where Abbott Street and Newport Avenue meet. A snaking ledge in the front Ocean Room offers choice seating along open windows, giving patrons a

A mahi and lobster taco (Photo by Frank Sabatini Jr.)

bull’s eye view of the amusement park’s only lasting remnant – the Pacific Ocean. Farther back is another large space named the Pier Pub. Both areas flaunt central bars, ample seating and countless flat screens, which will remain hot throughout the NFL season. The bill of fare features a mélange of Hawaiian, Asian, Mexican and American dishes, ranging from ahi poke with macadamia nuts and chicken in green curry to seafood tacos and ground short rib burgers. The addition of fresh mussels and oysters attest that Wonderland takes visitors a few steps beyond the usual bar grub seen in most other establishments in this neck

of the woods. But that isn’t to say you can’t land an order of chicken wings when sailing through the 24-tap beer list. In a refreshing departure from Buffalo-style wings, the crispy appendages were dusted in sea salt, black pepper, scallions and red chili flakes. Given their pygmy size, they were a little dry until dipping them into a sweetand-spicy glaze served alongside. Huffman and Desiderio also co-own The Local Drinking Hole & Eatery downtown and The Local Pacific Beach. They’ve carried over from those menus their famous lobster tacos constructed with char-grilled flour tortillas. Sitting beneath a mantle of cabbage, cheese and pico de gallo was the prized strip of fried tail meat, which my companion rated as “delicious” even though it didn’t take center stage. Zesty Southwest-style tuna salad tucked into buttery garlic naan bread, however, was abundant. The tuna is mixed with pasilla peppers, pico de gallo, manchego cheese and chipotle mayo. It’s a far cry from the tuna sandwiches most of us grew up with, though exceedingly more delightful. With a Belgian ale and Hess Kölsch parked under our noses, we encroached on a few additional beer-friendly dishes that included super-tender coconut chicken strips served with mustard sauce and sweet habañero-orange marmalade. The coconut flavor was mild, and just as well, since I’m not a fan of this recipe when the chicken comes out tasting like donuts. My favorite dish was chile verde stew loaded with slow-cooked pork coddled by a thick puree of roasted tomatillos. Chili peppers were obviously layered into the recipe from the start, as their flavor rang through steadily but without causing three-alarm fires in our mouths. The stew comes with the bonus of fried corn quesadillas encircling the plate, serving as perfect dippers. Judging from the dish’s expert construction, I’m guessing that Wonderland’s version of pork

Salt and pepper chicken wings (Photo by Frank Sabatini Jr.)

pozole soup containing hominy and red chilies deserves a blue ribbon too. Gourmet twists prevail throughout a number dishes that might otherwise seem ordinary. In lobster mac-and-cheese, for example, the menu reveals the inclusions of shitake mushrooms and Gruyere cheese. The mango-shrimp cocktail comes with house-made ginger cocktail sauce while pickled cucumber kimchi gives rise to Korean-style beef skewers. Had we not skipped dessert on the festive afternoon we visited, we would have been faced with such choices as a candied bacon ice cream waffle, coconut cream pie topped with crème brûlée meringue or scratch-made mud pie with Baileys whipped cream. Although the food, drinks and atmosphere at Wonderland Ocean Pub hardly reflect what consumers encountered a century ago, the historical reminders of a nearby amusement park lend a depth of character that we don’t often find in beachside party establishments. —Frank Sabatini Jr. is the author of “Secret San Diego” (ECW Press) and began covering local food two decades ago as a staffer for the former San Diego Tribune. You can reach him at fsabatini@san.rr.com.u

Wonderland Ocean Pub 5083 Santa Monica Ave. (Ocean Beach)

619-255-3358 Prices: Appetizers, salads and tacos, $4 to $14; sandwiches and entrees, $9.50 to $16

LOCAL NEWS

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014 Mission Times Courier sdcnn.com News, from page 7

April Boling to review upcoming General Election ballot Judy

McCarty

reflect the best about America and its great leaders. The theme of this year’s project is “Only the Educated are Free.” Downtown Republican Women, our satellite club, will welcome Lori Brown, administrative assistant to State Sen. Joel Anderson, on Thursday, Oct. 23 at 5:30 p.m. at The Athens Market on the corner of First Avenue and F Street, Downtown. Cost is $15 for the amazing hors d’oeuvres buffet and no-host bar. RSVP to dmcrsd@gmail.com. Downtown Republican Women meets every fourth Thursday of the month in a casual setting, and all Republicans are welcome to come and join in the discussion with the guest of honor. Be sure to stop by and say hello if you attend Oktoberfest. We’ll be at the corner of La Mesa Boulevard and Date Street. Last day to register is Oct. 20. For more information, check out our website at navajocanyonrwf.org.

t our Oct. 14 luncheon meeting, which takes place at 11 a.m. at La Mesa’s Brigantine Restaurant, April Boling will serve as “interpreter” of the complicated propositions on the ballot for the Nov. 4 General Election. The Navajo Canyon Republican Women Federated (NCRWF) will also hear a presentation by Susan Tully¸ National Field Director of the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), who will speak on immigration reform. Check-in time is 10:30 a.m. Cost is $20 for the full-course luncheon, and reservations are required. Please RSVP to NCRWF99@ gmail.com or call Glenda Boerner at 619-284-9958. Once again NCRWF is participating in the Mamie Eisenhower Literacy Project by providing new books to local libraries and schools. —Judy McCarty is the per This project is a wonderful way to promote literacy in our local com- capita chair of the Navajo Canyon munity by donating books that Republican Women Federated.u

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sycuanresort.com For exciting casino action right in your own backyard, there’s nowhere closer than Sycuan Casino. With Vegas-style gaming, scrumptious dining options, live headliner entertainment, and nearby golf resort you’ll find yourself coming back again and again. You can choose from 2,000 video & reel slots as well as video poker. For you card players, there are more than 40 tables to play Blackjack, Three–Card & Four– Card Poker, Sycuan–style craps and roulette. Enjoy the fresh air in the non– smoking room, with more than 350 slot machines, 9 gaming tables, Paipa’s Surf & Turf Buffet, and a Poker Room with daily tournaments – all smoke–free. For your dining pleasure, Sycuan offers five different restaurant options to tempt your taste buds. For those looking for a variety of delectable options, Paipa’s Surf & Turf Buffet is an all-you-can-eat feast featuring slow-roasted Prime Rib, buttery crab legs and over 100 fresh selections and delicious dessert bar. There isn’t a bad seat in the house at GameDay Sports Bar & Grill where you can catch the big game on 39 large screen televisions, 16 beers on tap with full cocktail selection, delicious food menu and 29 bar-top video poker machines to

play while you root on your team. With excellent acoustics and state-of-the-art sound and lighting, Sycuan Live & Up Close is San Diego’s premiere venue for live entertainment. Bringing exciting, crowd pleasing acts from all musical genres, there’s something for everyone on their concert calendar. Just a short drive, nearby Sycuan Golf Resort offers San Diego’s only 54-hole golf facility. Exciting course play includes mature tree-lined fairways, elevation changes, water features and impeccable greens. No matter if you’re a seasoned player or a first-timer, the two challenging 18-hole championship golf courses and fun 18-hole par 3 course are guaranteed to give you unforgettable experiences from beginning to end. To complete your stay-cation, enjoy one of their 100 spacious hotel rooms; all recently remodeled and offer beautiful views of the golf courses, pools and private putting greens. If golf isn’t in your plans, you can pamper yourself with a relaxing spa service. Not only is Sycuan the closest casino to downtown, they offer free shuttle bus rides from a number of convenient locations throughout San Diego County. For more information, please visit Sycuan.com. Guests must be 18 or older to enter casino, 21 or older to enter theatre and Sports Bar. Please play responsibly. Get away for the day, at Sycuan Casino…Real Friendly. Real Close!u

Foundation, a nonprofit aimed at raising awareness for issues veterans often face transitioning from combat duty to civilian life. “It’s a tragedy that between as many as 50 veterans kill themselves every day in America, often as a result of untreated psychological trauma inflicted by combat,” Fletcher stated in a press release. “If we truly honor those who gave their last full measure of devotion, it’s our duty to ensure that those who survive combat can also survive the transition home.” The organization derives its name from Fletcher’s three cousins: brothers Ben, Jeremy and Beau Wise. The latter two were killed in action serving in Afghanistan; the former is an active duty Marine. The foundation’s first event will take place on the deck of the USS Midway on Oct. 18. Proceeds will go toward increasing veteran access to support and services addressing veteran suicide. Visit threewisementribute.org for more information.

Police department foundation to hold annual gala

The San Diego Police Foundation will hold their annual Gold Shield Gala, “The Future’s So Bright You Gotta Wear Shades,” on Oct. 4 to raise money for the San Diego Police Department (SDPD). This year’s gala specifically benefits the foundation’s “K9 Crimefighters Campaign,” which aims to fund

new canines for SDPD’s K9 Unit. Seventeen of the department’s 31 police service dogs are expected to retire within the next three years. Each canine costs approximately $30,000. Tickets for the formal event are available for $185 per person or $1,750 for a 10-person table. They may be reserved by calling 619-232-2130 or by visiting sdpolicefoundation.org.

Mesa College seeks alumni stories As Mesa College prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary, school officials are asking current and former staff and students to share their favorite memories from their time on the mesa. Officials are asking people to submit their memories in five categories: funny stories, romantic stories, life-changing experiences, classroom experiences and stories from the colleges earliest days dating back to 1964, or even earlier when classes were held at Kearny High School. To encourawge people to share their memories, college officials will offer free tickets to the Celebration on the Mesa anniversary gala to one winner in each category. The best stories will also be posted on a remembrance wall during the Oct. 3 event. Send stories and memories to Anne Zacovic at azacovic@ sdccd.edu.

Tickets to the Oct. 3 anniversary gala are available for $50 at CelebrationOnTheMesa. EventBrite.com. For more information, call Zacovic at 619-388-2285.

River group acquires more mountain land The nonprofit San Diego River Foundation last month acquired a 20-acre property on El Capitan Mountain, also known as “El Cap,” from a private party. The mountain, which towers over the San Diego River in Lakeside, serves as habitat for golden eagles and provides outdoor recreation opportunities for local residents. “El Cap is a natural, scenic and cultural treasure,” said Rob Hutsel, the foundation’s executive director, in a press release. “We are so pleased to be able to lead the effort to permanently conserve it.” This is the second acquisition the foundation has made this summer. Supporters donated more than $51,000 altogether to acquire the two properties, making donations ranging from $2 to $20,000. Only one property within the El Capitan Mountain Conservation Area remains in private ownership. Other properties on the mountain have been conserved with the help of the county, San Diego Gas and Electric, the National Forest Service and supporters of the San Diego River Park Foundation.u

12 Mission Times Courier

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014

COUNCIL NEWS

College Area Community Council and Planning Board

Anthony

Wagner

Rhea

Kuhlman

t the September meeting of the College Area Community Council and Planning Board, we were pleased to learn about plans for a College Area farmers market, to be held Wednesday afternoons in the parking lot of the College Avenue Baptist Church, at 4747 El Cajon Blvd. The farmers market, sponsored by the nonprofit San Diego County Farm Bureau, will be offered from 2 – 6 p.m., or from 3 – 7 p.m., depending on the season. The entrance to the market will be on El Cajon Boulevard, between APEX Music and Effin’s Pub. The market will offer lots of organic fruits and vegetables, as well as locally grown fruits and veggies not usually found in supermarkets. Residents and board members voiced enthusiastic support for this project. It

Allied Gardens Town Council

is hoped the market will be ready to open in October. Stay tuned for more details. Also at this meeting, the board endorsed an application for a Caltrans grant to fund a mobility study for El Cajon Boulevard between Collwood Avenue/54th Street and the boundary with the City of La Mesa at 73rd Street. A working group comprised of representatives from community groups both north and south of the Boulevard has been seeking funds for this study since December 2013, as a first step toward making improvements to this stretch of El Cajon Boulevard. These improvements would make the Boulevard more attractive to pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles alike. We are hopeful the grant will be awarded.

A number of issues regarding stop signs were considered at the meeting. The board requested that the city install a four-way stop at Art Street and Mesita Drive, where traffic from parents dropping off their children at the Language Academy is further complicated by residents from a new 915 bedroom complex in Rolando commuting to San Diego State. Children and their parents who are walking to and from the academy are endangered by chaotic vehicle traffic. We also voted to ask that the city review the status of two requested stop signs in the El Cerrito neighborhood around 54th Street and New Mills Road. These signs are needed to slow drivers who are speeding down See COLLEGE AREA page 13

ur San Diego Police Department is in crisis. On Tuesday, Sept. 23 at 7 p.m., the Allied Gardens Town Council will host a town hall at Ascension Lutheran Church, located at 5106 Zion Ave. As part of that event, we have invited Jeff Jordon, Vice President of the San Diego Police Officers Association, to speak in depth about the seriousness of the crisis facing our department. We hope all of those in the area concerned about public safety and our police department takes the time to hear where we’ve been, where we’re headed and what can be done to ensure our department is able to turn the corner and begin rebuilding. You may not have realized it, but officers are fleeing our department in droves — either through retirement or by transferring to other local agencies — leaving the department’s staffing numbers the lowest they’ve been in years. According to the department,

since Fiscal Year 2006, we’ve had more than 1,300 officers leave the department with at least 241 joining other local agencies. As of today, 400 are eligible to retire right now if they choose. Only a decade ago, there were 2,123 sworn officers on our police force. Today, there are approximately 1,820. This is a problem that has been a long time in the making. Over the years, our city leaders have been unable or unwilling to ensure the compensation for our officers is competitive enough to provide an incentive to recruit and retain the best officers possible. As officers have fled, our department has had to begin cutting back various departments and services in order to maintain quick response times. Specifically, our department has eliminated units such as the harbor unit, mounted officers, the regional auto theft task force, division narcotic teams, DUI teams and others. We’ve also had to reduce investigative units such as vice, auto theft, gangs, narcotics and domestic violence. These are all critical functions of our department that we’ve had to reduce in the wake of a shrinking police force. As the problem continues to grow, our department will have no choice but to begin cutting patrol staffing, ultimately leading to cross-your-fingers policing — a frightful thought for any San Diego resident. This isn’t just a public safety issue either: It’s a taxpayer issue. According to SDPD, the process of training a new officer is an investment of approximately $191,000. When that officer leaves for another agency, that’s a cost we can’t recoup. Do the math: The 241 officers who left for other agencies since FY2006 is a $45 million loss of investment. Our city leaders have taken positive steps over the last two years. Last year, our city council approved a $1,000 retention bonus for all officers. While initially helpful, this gesture did not provide a long-term solution to the problem. See WAGNER page 21

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COUNCIL NEWS

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014 Mission Times Courier sdcnn.com

San Carlos Area Council News Mickey

Zeichick

ur next San Carlos Area Council (SCAC) meeting will be Nov. 5 at 6 p.m. at the San Carlos Branch Library, 7265 Jackson Dr. Our scheduled guest speaker is David Akin from the San Diego Water Department, who will talk to us about water conservation and other waterrelated topics. The next Navajo Community Planners, Inc. (NCPI) meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m., Oct. 20 at the Zion Avenue Community Church in Allied Gardens. For a copy of the upcoming agenda or minutes of past meetings visit navajoplanners.org. These items are available three days before the upcoming meeting. San Carlos Community Garden (SCCG): On Saturdays and Sundays in October and November the garden is open to the public to enjoy the newly completed dry creek bed, native garden, memorial arbor, herb garden and several picnic tables. You may even notice the pumpkin patch is flourishing. We are hoping to have a SCCG open house “tea” (iced tea, cookies and lemonade) on Oct. 1 at 6 p.m. The purpose is to encourage more participation.

Cowles Mountain hikers and residents

Since our Town Hall Meeting on July 10, we have continued to work with Councilmember Scott Sherman’s office on viable solutions for the Cowles Mountain area. We believe the following will ease some of the ongoing parking problems: 1) Restriping Golfcrest Drive near Navajo Road. The removal of red curbing and subsequent restriping would create an additional 17 parallel parking spaces. (This is pending the approval of the Navajo Planners on Sept. 15.) 2) Highlighting and encouraging the use of the San Carlos Library lower parking lot. Mission Trails Regional Park will add signs informing hikers about this added parking location. This will create 30 spaces that are not normally used. 3) Add additional red curbing around homes on Melotte,

Birchcreek and Golfcrest, including the cul-de-sacs. We hope this will eliminate the issue with garbage cans on trash day. Staff will add approximately three feet of striping around the driveways, which will provide room for the trashcans and (hopefully) prevent the double-parking of cars. Each resident will be independent of their neighbor and can opt out of the additional striping and it will not affect any other property opting in for the restriping.

Neighborhood Watch

Start a Neighborhood Watch program in your neighborhood. If you are interested in starting one, please contact me, and I will be very happy to work with you on this endeavor. I am a believer in being involved in our neighborhoods. Sherman’s office has worked with the city departments to ensure that these remedies are feasible and hopes to implement them as soon as possible.

Stay alert

We enjoy our neighborhoods because of the relatively low crime levels but we need to be mindful of the little voice inside us. If something doesn’t “feel” right, act on your instinct and get yourself to a safer place. Unfortunately, the little voice doesn’t always come into our senses, as in the case of the assault that happened on Aug. 18 at about 5 p.m. in the parking lot of Albertsons (Lake Murray Boulevard and Navajo Road) where an elderly victim (in her 80s) was loading groceries from her shopping cart into the trunk of her car. The suspect grabbed her purse from the shopping cart and ran. The victim gave chase but fell and seriously injured herself. Because the victim sustained injuries as a result of the crime, the suspect would be charged with assault even though he did not actually strike her. The suspect stole the purse then used the credit cards. The crime was caught on video and there were several witnesses. San Diego Fire Department, thank you for putting the fire out so quickly on Cowles Mountain. With the dry brush on the mountain, things could have gotten out of hand very easily. Thank you for this time and for all the times, not only here in San Carlos but elsewhere in the state.

Allied Gardens 60th Anniversary Celebration

This momentous event will be held on Oct. 18, 3 – 8 p.m. at the Allied Gardens Shopping Center on Waring Road in the parking lot and former site of the Union Bank (signing is still there). To find out what is happening in our San Carlos neighborhood, go to NextDoor.com. If you have a matter to discuss with me you can reach me at 619-461-6032 or mrzeichick@gmail.com. If you wish to be put on the “Interested Persons List” contact John Pilch at jfpilch@hotmail.com with a cc to me. —Mickey Zeichick is president of the San Carlos Area Council.u

College Area, from page 12

Our next meeting will be Wednesday, Oct. 8 at 7 p.m. in the community room of the College-Rolando Library, 6600 Montezuma Rd. Among other items on the agenda, we’ll hear a presentation from SDSU about South Campus Plaza, the mixeduse development at College Avenue and Montezuma Road expected to break ground in October. We hope to learn, among other things, the identity of some of the commercial tenants who have signed on for the project, and to hear why the residential component was changed from apartment-style to dormitorystyle living.

the hill. Additionally, the community council voted to send a letter to San Diego Unified School District expressing concern over delays in repairing playground equipment at Hardy Elementary. Finally, we heard an interesting presentation about the Urban Forestry Management Plan, which will eventually be adopted by the city of San Diego. Right now, the city is conducting surveys and seeking community input about what should be in such a plan. Residents who would like to complete a survey, or attend one of the meetings gathering further —Rhea Kuhlman is president input, can contact daniellenisan@ of the College Area Community gmail.com. Council.u

14 Mission Times Courier

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014

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Assemblymember Weber to recap legislative progress La Mesa mayor will speak Linda

Armacost

highlight of his presentation was his hilarious recap of San Diego politicos as Star Wars characters. We really enjoyed this brilliant investigative journalist and will surely hope he’ll make a repeat visit! We looked back at our own colorful past at our tremendous August anniversary meeting with Club founder Beverly Cassier,

a Mesa Foothills Democratic Club will welcome Assemblymember Shirley Weber (D-San Diego) as the keynote speaker at our Oct. 1 meeting. We’ll also be treated to another unique visit: Colorful long-term La Mesa Mayor Art Madrid will address our membership for the first time in his political career. And our very own Jack Shu, head of the Cleveland National Forest Foundation, will keep us updated on the progress of their ongoing court battle against Caltrans and SANDAG, and the future of highway building, mass transit and environmental mandates in the county. Dr. Weber, elected to California’s 79th Assembly District in November 2012, represents much Assemblymember Shirley Weber, of San Diego, Chula Vista and Ph.D. (Courtesy La Mesa Democratic most of La Mesa, Lemon Grove Club) and National City. She chairs the 94 years young, cutting our Assembly’s Budget Subcommittee 30th anniversary cake! We were on Health and Human Services, treated to a fantastic concert by the Select Committee on Higher satirical singer/songwriter Roy Education in San Diego County, Zimmerman, which everyone and the Select Committee on greatly enjoyed as he kicked off Campus Climate. She also serves his Blue Dot tour with a gala on a variety of committees that performance in front of over 100 represent education, appropriamembers and guests. tions, the budget, and banking and Local politicos are starting finance. As an assembly member, to make regular appearances Weber has translated her ambiat club meetings as the election tious legislative agenda to seven season is moving into full gear. successful bills, five of which It’s time to get out the vote for our related to education, specifically local hopefuls. Patrick Dean has funding early childhood education, pulled papers for La Mesa City full-day kindergarten and linking Council, and we’ll get an update English language development to on his promising campaign. La the state’s core curriculum math Mesa Foothills Democratic Club and science standards. meets the first Wednesday of each Weber will give us a complete month at the La Mesa Community update on the success and failures Center, 4975 Memorial Dr. of the recently concluded 2014 Meetings start with social time Assembly Session and what lies at 6:30 p.m. and club business ahead. at 7 p.m. All are welcome, as our In September, we enjoyed the members bring wide variety of witty and informative David snacks and desserts. Check out Rolland, editor of the alternalamesafoothillsdemocraticclub. tive weekly CityBeat. Rolland is com or like us on Facebook. famous for calling ‘em as he sees them, and his observations of the —Linda Armacost is the presilast decade of San Diego’s political dent of the La Mesa Foothills scene was full of keen insight and Democratic Club.u humorous anecdotes. Perhaps the

15 LIBRARY / COUNCIL NEWS Allied Benjamin Branch Library: beautiful, newly Gardens 60th designed patio space

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014 Mission Times Courier sdcnn.com

Anniversary Celebration rescheduled John Peterson

he Allied Gardens 60th Anniversary Celebration has been rescheduled to Saturday, Oct. 18. The celebration will be held from 3 – 8 p.m. in the old Union Bank building in the Allied Gardens Shopping Center. It will feature an Allied Gardens history display, the dedication of a new clock at the triangle (corner of Waring Road and Zion Avenue) and plenty of food and fun! The Kiwanis Club of Grantville-Allied Gardens is selling commemorative bricks as a fundraiser to replace the old clock in the triangle. The bricks will be installed beneath the new clock, which will be unveiled at 4 p.m. as part of the anniversary celebration. What a great way to commemorate your family or business! More information is available at AlliedGardensKiwanis.org.u

Del Cerro Action Council

Adobe Falls problem worsening Jay

Wilson

ur Adobe Falls cleanup on Aug. 23 was a grand success. A total of 32 people participated throughout the morning as we picked up trash from the cul-desac at the bottom of Adobe Falls Road to the depths of Adobe Falls. We picked up a little bit of everything, from paper cups to empty beer and soda cans, parts of a shopping cart, blankets and furniture. It was very distressing to see virtually every rock that makes up Adobe Falls covered in spray paint. There is even a living tree that is covered in spray paint at least 10 feet up the trunk. An entire 50-gallon trash bag was filled with discarded spray paint cans. And the number of cigarette butts that were picked up along the trail to Adobe Falls was alarming. Standing on the rim of Adobe Falls with Councilmember Scott Sherman and his wife, each of us with a trash bag and pickerupper, we looked down toward the Smoketree Condominiums, and we were looking at a very dry canyon that could easily become See DEL CERRO page 20

Arianne Leigh

he Allied Gardens/Benjamin Library and the Allied Gardens community enjoy the support of the Benjamin Friends of the Library, which has long provided funding for exciting events, performances and materials for both children and adults. However, our Benjamin Friends group went above and beyond with a large project overseeing the beautification of the branch’s patio space. With their eye for detail, strong design sense and hard work they have transformed this space into a tranquil outdoor room by providing new Zen-type benches, a patio table with umbrella and several beautiful new plants. It is the perfect environment to catch up with a friend or read a good book. If it has been a while since you have stopped into the library, please plan a visit in the near future, and while you are here, take a moment to enjoy the patio. Do you ever look for a newly published book, only to find it on hold for another patron? To

address this issue we now have a wonderful new collection called Leased Books. Leased Books are current bestsellers and they have no waiting list! Although they are referred to as “Leased Books,” they are free to rent, and since they cannot be placed on hold, if the title is here in the branch when you visit, you may check it out immediately. Because of the high demand of these titles, there are no renewals and the loan period is limited to two weeks. Please also be sure to check out these fabulous upcoming programs for September and October. Thank you to the generous support of the Benjamin Friends of the Library:

Special presentations for adults: “Neighborhood Beat” Presentation and Q&A session with Councilmembers Scott Sherman (District 7) and Marti Emerald (District 9) on Saturday, Sept. 20, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. “Journeys through France and Life” - Come see some of the beautiful and interesting sights in France: gracious chateaux, quaint villages, charming gardens

and stunning architecture. This program features a slide show, photographic exhibit, and a book reading with author Glenda de Vaney on Monday, Sept. 22 at 1 p.m. “Haunted San Diego” – Explore the mysterious side of San Diego and some of the places deemed “haunted.” Stories of some of San Diego’s ghosts and legends will be shared, adding an exciting element as we look into San Diego’s sinister past on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 1 p.m. Benjamin Friends of the Library meeting - Come join the Friends and support the library! Memberships start at $5 and new members are always welcome. Wednesday, Sept. 24 and Oct. 22 at 1 p.m.

Ongoing programs for adults: Zumba: Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m. Hatha Yoga: Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Fitness Fun for Older Adults: Fridays at 11:15 a.m. Healthy Back Yoga: 1st and 3rd Saturdays at 1 p.m. Book Club: 2nd Tuesdays at 1 p.m. Mystery Class: Thursdays at 1

p.m. (No class on Sept. 25) Benjamin Friends of the Library: 4th Wednesdays at 1 p.m.

Special presentations for children: Amazing Arthropods!: Fun facts along with songs, puppets, real pelts, replicated skulls, scats, tracks and taxidermy specimens with Linda Hawley, Ed.M. of Nature Adventures! and Mission Trails Regional Park on September 26 at 3 p.m. Beneficial Bats!: Fun facts along with songs, puppets, real pelts, replicated skulls, scats, tracks and taxidermy specimens with Linda Hawley, Ed.M. of Nature Adventures! and Mission Trails Regional Park on Oct. 3 at 3 p.m.

Ongoing children’s programs: Brilliant Babies Storytime: recommended for pre-walkers, Mondays at 10:30 a.m. Toddler/Preschool Storytime: ages 2-5, Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. Kids’ Yoga: ages 2-8, Thursdays at 3:30 p.m. —Arianne Leigh is the branch manager of the Allied Gardens/ Benjamin Branch Library.u

16 Mission Times Courier

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014

LIBRARY NEWS

Kids read, kids win Armin

Kuhlman

he College-Rolando Library’s successful summer reading program had 303 children and youth sign up this year, compared to 196 last year. This year’s theme was “Paws to Read,” celebrating our furry (or not-so-furry) animal friends. We offered larger prizes, including several bikes, for those who have read more books. Participants received a raffle ticket for these prizes for each 10 books they read. We invite you to attend one of the fun, family-friendly recurring events at the library this summer: Arts and Crafts: Saturdays at Noon Kid’s Yoga: first and third Fridays at 11 a.m. Family Story Time: every Friday at 10 a.m. Zumba Fitness: first and third Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. Zumba Gold: first and third Saturdays at 9:45 a.m. Aryn’s Family Yoga: second and fourth Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. Our Book Club meets on second Saturdays at 10 a.m. The October selection is “Destiny of the Republic” by Candice Millard. Join us for our next Oasis class “Hoover Dam, the Greatest Work of the Depression” by Mark Carlson on Tuesday, Sept. 30 at 2 p.m. October 29 at 2 p.m. features “The Keys to Core Strength, Reducing Common Causes of Back Pain.” Visit France on Tuesday, Sept. 30 at 6 p.m. with a reading and slide show by Glenda de Vaney from her book “Journey Through France and Life.” Circulating passes available for three museums The Museum of Man joins the New Children’s Museum and the San Diego Museum of Art in providing complimentary passes that can be checked out on your library card. To find and reserve passes, go to sandiego.gov/public library/services/specialresources College-Rolando Friends is making arrangements for new digital printed signs on our

A view inside the College-Rolando Library. (San Diego Public Library)

303

Number of children and youth that participated in the summer reading program this year rock structure in front of the library to improve our visibility and attract more patrons. Unfortunately a number of the letters attached to the rock structure last September have been stolen, so we had to remove all of the letters and find a more secure option. Our Friends of the Library Room Book Sale takes place on Tuesdays from 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. and Saturdays from noon – 2 p.m. Browse our carts for more books inside the east entrance during library hours. We welcome your donations of books, CDs, DVDs and magazines in good condition. No textbooks, please. The following officers were re-elected at our CollegeRolando Friends annual meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 26: President, Armin Kuhlman; Vice President, Marie Grace; Secretary, Rhea Kuhlman; and Treasurer, ET Perry. General board members are Harriet Cohen, Hollis Johnson, Sharon Nash and Vi Woodford. Harriet

Cohen received our annual volunteer award for her Oasis program service. Our next meeting is Tuesday, Oct. 28 at 4:30 p.m. We welcome you to join us to find out about opportunities to help the Friends of the College-Rolando Library and support your local branch library. Here are some examples where you can help: Advocacy: Speak on behalf of the College-Rolando Library at City Council meetings, civic groups and with your neighbors. Book Sales: Help out in the Friends’ Book Sale room. Communications: Get the word out by drafting announcements, creating flyers of events, blogging or taking photographs. If you are not already a member, we invite you to join the College-Rolando Friends to support our library collections and programs. There’s also still time to renew your annual membership if you haven’t already done so. Individual Adult memberships are only $5, Family (Dual Adult) $10 and Sponsor $25. You can also become a Life Member for $250. You can visit collegerolandolibrary.org to learn about current library events, classes, volunteer opportunities plus links to San Diego Library and community. Call 619-533-3902 or stop by the library (6600 Montezuma Rd., 92115) for more information. The staff of the College-Rolando branch welcomes you! —Armin Kuhlman is president of the Friends of College-Rolando Library.u

LIBRARY NEWS

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014 Mission Times Courier sdcnn.com

San Carlos Friends of the Library Bonnie Cameron, Mary Holma, Travis Strachota, Lynda Gavin, Hotz Sue Hotz, the authors and storytellers and the Mission Times Courier for their support. If you were there, we hope you hat a party! The “40 & Fabulous, Family Fun had as much fun as we did. Join Fair,” sponsored by the San the Friends and look for your Carlos Friends of the Library picture on our website at sancar(SCFOL), brought over 300 of losfriendsofthelibrary.org. Your the young and young at heart to patronage supports your branch the San Carlos Branch Library library. SCFOL’s next big event is on Aug. 23 to help celebrate its “Just Around the Corner: Craft 40 years of service to the community. Activities included an Fair and Boutique,” on Oct. 10, author’s fair, crafts, carnival from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Space restrictions require that we hold it “just games and refreshments. around the corner” at the San Carlos United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. Purchase a wonderful variety of handmade items created by over 30 juried crafters. Tickets available for “opportunity drawings” will make you eligible to win items donated by the crafters and local merchants. The Patrick Henry High School water polo team and the San Carlos United Methodist Church youth group are pitching in to help the library and will have their own booths. A list of the participating crafters and crafts may be found on our On Aug. 23, the Family Fun Fair celebrated 40 years website. Visit the of San Carlos Library benefitting the community. SCFOL booth and (Courtesy SCFOL) join the Friends. A special thanks to The SCFOF would like to co-chairs Ruth George, Sandy thank the event’s organiz- Gillins and Rita Glick, their ers: Managing Librarian Rita mentor extraordinaire Glenice Glick, SCFOL President Judy Stainbrook and their awesome Williams, Carleen Hemric and committee. Why a SCFOL sponsored craft Rainie Strachota, and to their fair? Our libraries support a varienergetic committee members: ety of community interests and Jade Cepura, Monica Nguyen, Olga Bronshetyn, Tony Lam, the San Carlos Branch Library Attie Davis, Roy Kuraoka, Rita has a very active crafters group Rogers, Meilani Madery, Julia that meets on Mondays from Kawas, Sarah Bayne, Kian Liss, 1 – 5 p.m. Join them anytime.

Sue

Just for fun:

Chair Yoga now meets on Tuesdays at 2:30 p.m. All other “Just For Fun” activities stay the same.

Oasis:

Oct. 17 at 1 p.m., Randy Seaver presents “Geneology –Be an Ancestor Detective.”

Youth:

We are without a youth services librarian. Call Rita Glick if you can help. Temporarily filling in Wednesdays at 2 p.m. for story-time with volunteers Bonnie Hall and Jeanne Dye. Age was not a prerequisite for fun or face paint at the Family Fun Fair in San Carlos. (Courtesy SCFOL) “STEAM2” returns on Wednesdays at 3 p.m. The fair gives crafters a venue us about “Before 1915: The Early Check our website for addiwhere they can sell their hand- History of Balboa Park.” tional activities. made items while supporting the Sept. 27, there will be another The teens assisting with the library with their donations, and “Death Café”at 11:30 a.m. — book sales and Family Fun Fair you, the buyer, can support our reserve your spot. are awesome! We loved working crafters and branch library by Oct. 9, the book club is reviewwith you, thank you! Let Rita purchasing one-of-a-kind items ing the new “One Book, One Glick know how this branch for yourself or holiday gift giving. San Diego” choice, “Monstress” library can help serve you; what A real “hat trick.” by Lysley Tenorio. programs do you need and enjoy? As the school year starts, Oct. 10, learn “Natural We look forward to seeing you join us for one of our adult or Solutions to Digestive at the Oct. 4 Book Sale, and the children’s programs in our refur- Problems” with Dr. Gerald Oct. 11 Craft Fair. Details about bished community room. We have Williams at 1 p.m. everything can be found at sannew chairs and fresh paint, and carlosfriendsofthelibrary.org. there’s more to come. For artists In the Community Room, the —Sue Hotz is a San Carlos For adults SewMates will display their fabFriends of the Library board Sept. 26 at 2 p.m., historian ulous Holiday Quilt Show from member.u and author Nancy Carter tells Oct. 7 – 30.

18 Mission Times Courier

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014

LOCAL NEWS / CLASSIFIEDS

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Services Jenna’s Barber Shoppe. Styling for men, women & children. Wheelchair friendly. Old time expert haircuts at affordable prices. Colors & perms. 7424 Jackson Dr.#1A (across from Keil’s in Bank of America lot) Tues-Fri., 8:305:30pm; Sat. 8:30-noon. Walk-ins or By appt., 619-644-3669. (12/14) Gardening Service: Lawns, hedges, weeding, trimming, we do it all! 25 years experience, Allied Gardens resident since 1983. Weekly/bi-weekly service. Licensed/insured. Free estimates. 619-287-6947 (07/15) Locksmith - Discount Deadbolts and Rekeying - security door viewers, patio door locks, simulated alarms, magnetic door stops. Cliff Henderson 619-8403327 - Lic# LCO4353 - Bonded - Never a trip charge! (06/15) Quality exterior carpentry. Decks, Fences, Patio Covers and Termite Repair. Lic365241. www. aactionbuildersofsandiego.com. Bob 619-275-1493 (4/15) Linda’s Puppy Love, licensed, insured pet sitting service offering daily walks, cat care, overnight stays-your home, lots of love. 619-857-3674 www. lindaspuppylove.com (6/15)

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Megadorm, from page 1 housing projects. Because of the impacts on noise, parking, traffic and other environmental factors, the city should have conducted a thorough environmental review on the project before approving it, the Rolandans group argued. Attorneys for the city argued that they had no choice but to approve the project because it complied with all the zoning requirements in place on that property. The necessary environmental reviews occurred years ago when the zoning regulations were adopted for the area, the lawyers said. Before seeking permits to build, developer Carmel Partners consulted with the city and diligently calibrated the design of BLVD63 so it would receive rubber-stamp approval from the city without triggering higher levels of review and more community debate. One of the key points of disagreement between the neighborhood group and the city was whether BLVD63 met the legal definition for a dormitory, or whether it was merely a multifamily housing project that appealed to students. The Rolandans for Quality Infill Development pointed to a section of city code that states, “Fraternity houses, sorority houses, and student dormitories are facilities that are designed or used as a residence for students enrolled at an institution of higher learning.” City planners, however, do not consider a project to be a dormitory unless student tenants sign individual leases on each bedroom, according to Senior Planner Raynard Abalos’s statements in court documents. At BLVD63, all tenants in an apartment unit sign one lease for the entire apartment unit. This makes them an integrated economic unit, which the city considers a “family” even if the tenants are not related to each other. Therefore, as a project designed for families and not restricted to students, BLVD63 is not student housing, according to the city’s interpretation of its own code. Neighbors who live closest to the complex have had mixed feelings since it opened a month ago. Giuseppe Apparito, who has lived just down the street on Seminole Drive for 25 years, said he has not encountered any prob-

lems with noise or parking yet. That could change, however, as more of the vacant units fill up, he said. “I think we’re going to have a little trouble,” Apparito said. “I think, but I hope not.” And while the existing neighbors would have preferred a better project at the site, they had little choice in the matter. “Money talks,” he said. Another homeowner on Stanley Avenue, across the street from BLVD63, said his once-empty street is now filled every night with student cars. At night, sound carries easily as students walk from their cars to the apartment property, even if they’re not talking loudly, he said. BLVD63 management has posted several messages on the BLVD63 Facebook page asking residents to be respectful of neighbors and park in the complex’s five-story parking structure rather than on nearby residential streets. BLVD63 residents, however, must pay for a permit to park in the garage. Regardless of the legal battle, students seem to be enjoying their new digs. The complex features fully furnished apartment units, bocce ball courts, barbecue amenities, group fire pits, a fitness center, a hot tub and two swimming pools accompanied by private cabanas. “I love it here,” said BLVD63 resident Matilde Pedersen. “It’s amazing.” Pedersen, an international student from Denmark, said she chose to move to BLVD63 because she knew she would be living among fellow students, many of whom are also international students. Current leasing information posted at BLVD63’s website shows a two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit starting at $2,000 and a one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit starting at $1283. Many of the units have four bedrooms, some large enough for two beds. The largest four-bedroom unit, at 1,714 square feet, starts at $2,917. Other than the leasing office, none of the 10,000 square feet of ground floor retail space on El Cajon Boulevard appears to be leased yet.u

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LOCAL NEWS / PUZZLES PUZZLES

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014 Mission Times Courier sdcnn.com

Grantville, from page 1 could be spent, and their website now says they’ve suspended operations “until further notice”. A far more serious roadblock might be facing all this: How much will this it, and who’s going to pay for it? At Monday night’s meeting of the Navajo Community Planning Group, that question came up several times. City planner Brian Schoenfisch and project manager Vicki Burgess pointed out that fees charged to developers who’d build all the new projects will pay for part of it, but by no means all. “There are many possible sources of funding for these projects,” Schoenfisch told the Navajo board members. “For instance, there are SANDAG funds available, there are Caltrans funds possible for the work around Interstate 8. There’s quite a list.” In fact, the last page of the 93-page Facilities Financing Report given to the planners identifies no fewer than 29 potential funding sources. But Development Impact Fees (DIFs) are the starting point for much of this. As one example,

developers building new homes would pay $7,410 per unit in DIFs. There are also fees for apartment units, condos, stores, businesses and anything else that might be built there. The overall plan would result in anywhere from 8,000 to 30,000 more people living in the area, similar to what has happened just west in Mission Valley. Those fees would raise a lot of money to pay for the urban village concept, and everything needed to make it happen. It will take a lot of money. If you look at the facilities financing plan, you see page after page of projects, ranging from the widening and rebuilding of Mission Gorge Road to parks, libraries, fire stations and everything in between. The vast majority of them contain the phrase “design and construction will be scheduled when funding is identified.” The estimated cost to build all this is roughly $461 million. “Identified funding” is just short of $28 million. There’s a long way go to get to the envisioned end of this.u

ANSWERS ON PAGE 21

CROSSWORD

The overall plan would result in anywhere from 8,000 to 30,000 more people living in the area, similar to what has happened just west in Mission Valley.

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20 Mission Times Courier

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014

COUNCIL NEWS

Common Sense Corner Free homebuyer workshop for District 7 residents Community HousingWorks is a nonprofit organization that Sherman helps people and communities move up in the world. From getting your finances in order to finding an affordable mortwning a home is a dream gage and getting into your next for many families in San home, CHW will be your guide Diego’s City Council District 7 on the path to homeownership. community, but some residents Worried about your credit? Need don’t know to pay down debt? where to get Financial experts started. Others Community at CHW can also have even give detailed HousingWorks given up hope advice to help is a nonprofit on the dream you take charge of becoming organization that of your finances a homeowner so that you’ll be because they helps people and ready to purchase are unable to communities move a home in the come up with up in the world. future. a large enough The event down payment, will be held at or are afraid the Tierrasanta that their credit is too low. Recreation Center at 11220 This is why my office is team- Clairemont Mesa Blvd., San ing with nonprofit organization Diego, CA 92124. If you’re Community HousingWorks interested in attending, please (CHW) to hold an informa- contact my office at 619-236-6677 tional workshop for residents or email me at ScottSherman@ interested in owning a home SanDiego.Gov to RSVP. on Sept. 25 at 6 p.m. Home Hope to see you there! buying experts from the organization will be on hand to give —Councilmember Scott expert advice on buying a home Sherman represents District 7 on and to connect you to valuable the city council. Contact him at first time homebuyer programs 619-236-6677 or scottsherman@ including down payment loans. sandiego.gov.u

Scott

Del Cerro, from page 15 an inferno from a carelessly discarded cigarette. The event was definitely a team effort, thanks to Brianna Drost of the San Diego State University Police Department. Officer Drost coordinated the event with the Del Cerro Action Council (DCAC) and Sherman’s office. Residents from Adobe Falls Road and the Smoketree Condominiums, members of Sherman’s staff, along with a large contingent of elders from the Allied Gardens LDS Church, and members of the SDSU Police Department all pitched in. Officer Drost will attend our Oct. 23 DCAC meeting to provide an update on Adobe Falls and on what SDSU is doing to help alleviate the problem of the increased negative activity at Adobe Falls. If you drive through the College Avenue/Waring Road/ Navajo Road intersection, you may notice that the three tall, dead palm trees that stood at the head of Navajo Canyon have been removed. They were certainly an eyesore and the layers and layers of dead palm fronds stood as three torches ready to light up the canyon and threaten many homes. I recently called Jason Allen, the senior ranger for open space canyons in the city, and mentioned that I had received an email from a Del Cerro resident who was concerned with the fire threat the three palm trees posed. Jason immediately responded by saying, “tomorrow we’re scheduled to remove the three palm trees.” And, true to his word, they were gone the following afternoon. On Sept. 4, Councilmember Sherman hosted a “canyon fire workshop” at the Mission Trails Visitor Center. It was well attended, and Fire Marshall Eddie Villavincencio provided a very informative PowerPoint presentation on what residents can do to reduce the risk of a canyon fire near their homes and property. One possibility is for the Navajo Community to establish a fire safety council. We can learn how to significantly improve the fire resistance of our homes and develop defensible space around it with fire-wise landscaping. In addition, fire safety councils are eligible for grants that help a community implement pre-fire preparations. Here are the four goals of the San Diego Fire Safety Council, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation: 1) Promote fire safety education 2) Encourage pre-fire preparation and management 3) Attend meetings about wildfire prevention 4) Participate in fire safety council programs and activities The next Del Cerro Action Council meeting will be held on Oct. 23 at 7 p.m. at Temple Emanu-El. If you have a topic or concern you would like us to discuss at our next meeting, please post a note on our website at delcerroactioncouncil.com. —Jay Wilson is president of the Del Cerro Action Council.u

COUNCIL NEWS

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014 Mission Times Courier sdcnn.com

Wagner, from page 12 Additionally, Mayor Kevin Faulconer recently increased the capacity of our police academies with the hope that we could train more officers to fill the ranks. Unfortunately, due to the retention issues our department already faces, many of these additional recruits have already committed to other agencies prior to even completing their training. Ultimately, without a longterm solution, our police officers won’t feel confident that their future in San Diego can be better than it would be with another agency. Our city leaders have been working on several ideas geared toward addressing the recruiting and retention problems facing our department; yet, ultimately, we still don’t have a solution, and the problem continues to get worse. In the end, residents of San Diego must demand that our leaders step up and put forth a plan dedicated to addressing these issues. Without the engagement of local leaders, community groups and dedicated citizens, this is a problem that will continue to languish. —I’m Anthony Wagner, president of Allied Gardens - Grantville Community Council. We represent the community interests of Allied Gardens and Grantville. Check out our new website at AlliedGardens.org. Feel free to call me at 619-253-4989 or write me a note at AnthonyJohnWagner@ gmail.com or tweet @AnthonyWagnerSD.u

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AREA WORSHIP DIRECTORY St. Andrew’s Lutheran 8350 Lake Murray Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91941 Sun: 8am, 9:30am, 11am; Sat: 5pm (619) 464-4211 Andy Taylor St. Dunstan’s Episcopal 6556 Park Ridge Blvd, San Diego, CA 92120 Sun: 8am, 10am; Wed: 10am, Thurs: 7am (619) 460-6442 Kevin Warner San Carlos United Methodist 6554 Cowles Mountain Blvd, San Diego, CA 92119 Sun: 8:15am, 10am (619) 464-4331 Martha T. Wingfield Community Church of San Diego 7811 Mission Gorge Rd, San Diego, CA 9210 Sun: 9:30am. 1st Sun is Communion at 9:30am (619) 583-8200 John C. Clements Mission Valley Christian Fellowship 6536 Estrella Ave, San Diego, CA 92120 Sun: 7:45am, 9:30am, 11:15am (619) 683-7729 Leo Giovinetti Tabernacle Church & Kingdom House of Prayer 5310 Prosperity Ln, San Diego, CA 92115 Sun: 6:30pm; Wed: 12pm worship at SDSU (619) 788-3934 Darren Hall Blessed Sacrament Church 4540 El Cerrito Dr, San Diego, CA 92115 Sun: 8am, 10am, 6pm; Sat: 5pm (619) 582-5722 Bruce Orsborn All Peoples Church 4345 54th St, San Diego, CA 92115 Sun: 9am and 11am (619) 286-3251 Robert Herber Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 6767 51st Street, San Diego, CA 92120 (619) 287-3970 Wesley United Methodist 5380 El Cajon Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92115 Sun: Youth worship 11am; Sat: YAY at 7:30pm (619) 326-7202 Dr. Cuong Nguyen Mission Church of the Nazarene 4750 Mission Gorge Pl, San Diego, CA 92120 Sun: 9am and 10:30am (619) 287-3211 Dr. David Runion Salvation Army Kroc Center Church 6611 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92115 Sundays at 10:30am (619) 287-5762 Bryan Cook Prince of Peace Lutheran 6801 Easton Court, San Diego, CA 92120 Sundays at 9am (619) 583-1436 Paul L. Willweber

Zion Avenue Baptist 4880 Zion Ave, San Diego, CA 92120 (619) 582-2033 St. Therese Catholic Church 6016 Camino Rico, San Diego, CA 92120 Sun: 7am, 9am, 11am; Mon: 6:20am, 7:30am; Sat: 5pm (619) 286-4605 William P. Stevenson Masjid al-Rribat 7173 Saranac St., San Diego (619) 589-6200 Imam Mohamed Gebaly Temple Emanu-El 6299 Capri Dr., San Diego 92120 Fridays 6:00 p.m., Saturdays 10:30 a.m. (619) 286-2555 Rabbi Devorah Marcus Holy Spirit Anglican Church 6116 Arosta St., San Diego 92115 Sunday, 9:30 a.m. (619) 324-9171 Father David Montzingo Palisades Presbyterian Church 6301 Birchwood St., San Diego 92120 Sunday 9:30 a.m. (619) 582-0852 Rev. Dr. Steve Davis Ascension Lutheran Church 5106 Zion Ave., San Diego 92120 Sundays 9:15 a.m. (619) 582-2636 Pastor Richard Zuber Mission Trails Church-Allied Gardens 6550 51st St., San Diego (Foster Elementary School) Sundays 11:00 a.m. Pastor Kyle Walters Mission Trails Church-San Carlos 6460 Boulder Lake Ave., San Diego (Springall Academy) Sundays 9:00 a.m. Pastor Kyle Walters The Grove Church 4562 Alvarado Cyn. Rd., San Diego 92120 Sundays 9:30 a.m. Pastor John Hoffman Tifereth Israel Synagogue 6660 Cowles Mountain Blvd., San Diego 92119 (619) 697-1102 Rabbi Leonard Rosenthal Chabad of East County (Jewish) 8691 La Mesa Blvd., La Mesa 91942 jewishec.com (619) 647-7042 Rabbi Rafi Andrusier Del Cerro Baptist Church 5512 Pennsylvania Lane, La Mesa, 91942 Sunday Traditional Service 8:30 a.m. Contemporary Service 11:00 a.m.(619) 460-2210 Web Site www.dcbc.org Pastor Dr. Mark S. Milwee Fletcher Hills Presbyterian Church 455 Church Way, El Cajon 92020 8:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. Rev. Dr. Kevin Womack

22 Mission Times Courier

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014

THEATER

THEATER REVIEW Charlene Baldridge

or more than a decade Canadian playwright, pianist, actor, composer and promoter Hershey Felder has devoted himself to telling the stories of great composers. At heart, Felder is an educator whose works include “Beethoven as I Knew Him,” “Maestro Bernstein,” “Monsieur Chopin” and “George Gershwin Alone.” He has portrayed and “played” these geniuses here (“Beethoven” premiered at the Old Globe) and internationally, bringing knowledge of the men, their challenging lives and their music to theatergoing masses. This critic’s frustrations with Felder the performer and Felder the playwright have been numerous and include the inadequacy of time to adequately tell a life, the editing of that life to suit audience sensibilities, and the vagaries of sound, especially when it comes to the feat of dovetailing live piano and recorded orchestral accompaniment. Granted, these are outrageously challenging feats. Technical perfection was never so closely realized until now, with Felder’s adaptation and direction of “The Pianist of Willesden Lane,” a one-woman script based on Mona Golabek and Lee Cohen’s book, “The Children of Willesden Lane.” Not to be missed, the work continues in the Lyceum at San Diego Repertory Theatre through Sept. 28.

A trip down

Willesden Lane

Mona Golabek portrays young pianist Lisa Jura. (Photos by Carol Rosegg)

In addition to Golabek and Felder, huge kudos to sound designer Erik Carstensen and projection designers Andrew Wilder and Greg Sowizdrzal. Trevor Hay and Felder create a clean scenic design that surrounds a Steinway concert grand. Historic photos enhance the story. The music — Grieg (principally the E minor concerto), Beethoven, Chopin, Bach and Scriabin — is wondrously played by American concert artist Golabek, who has a real and profound connection with the material and an effective and subtle style. Born in Vienna, Lisa Jura, portrayed by Golabek, was barely

into her teens when the Nazis made it impossible for Jewish children to study music and for Jewish fathers to support their families in any kind of profession. Lisa’s father, who’d been a tailor, was reduced to gambling in an attempt to put food on the table. One night his winnings consisted of a single ticket on the Kindertransport, which took children from European Jewish families to England. Because of her musical talent, Lisa’s parents selected her. The story unfolds as Lisa practices and dreams of making her concert debut with the Grieg concerto. “The Pianist of Willesden Lane”

is gripping, suspenseful and inspiring as onlookers, whether musical or not, Jewish or not, become invested in what happens to Lisa, watching the teen — who represents an entire generation of European children — become a woman in the midst of the London Blitz in a bombed out Willesden Lane orphanage. The story is a paean to the human spirit and to the sacrifice of those who sent their children away in order to give them a chance at life. Legendary stage director John Hirsch (1930-1989), remembered locally for his stunning 1988 Coriolanus at the Old Globe, was such a child, a Hungarian who

somehow managed to survive in Budapest during the war, even as his parents and only sibling perished. He eventually immigrated to Canada through the War Orphans Project of the Canadian Jewish Congress. Without such organizations, the world would have been deprived of Golabek, Hirsch and thousands of others. It is more important than ever to tell the story. Never again. —Charlewne Baldridge can be reached at charb81@gmail. com.u

“The Pianist of Willesden Lane” Tuesdays — Sundays Through Sept 28 San Diego REP at Lyceum Theatre Horton Plaza Downtown Tickets start $31 sdrep.org or 619-544-1000

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NEWS / MUSIC

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014 Mission Times Courier sdcnn.com

Artist, from page 1 Gallery in New York City. The show was a success, with four paintings sold, and invaluable contacts made for the future. He has been in many group shows in Boston, one previously in NYC, as well as at the recently closed Noel-Baza Fine Arts Gallery in Little Italy. Larry was born in Charleston, South Carolina, but grew up in Boston. He moved to San Diego four years ago to take care of his father. He and his wife, Liz Hincks, fell in love with San Diego. Groff worked in the nursing field for 25 years. He had friends who were artists, so five years into his nursing career, he started attending art school at the Massachusetts College of Art while working as a nurse. He obtained a master’s degree in fine arts from Boston University. “I decided to try art for myself,” he said. “It became an obsession.” Groff recently left nursing to become a computer animator for medical companies, combining his art and medical careers. “I haven’t made a lot of money, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” Groff said. He is hoping to find representation in San Francisco and Los Angeles in 2015. He is also looking into showing his San Carlos paintings at the San Carlos Public Library. For the past three summers Groff has been painting landscapes in Italy, where he was working at a summer art pro-

The opening reception at Groff’s one-man show at Prince Street Gallery in New York City (Courtesy Larry Groff)

gram run by the world renowned painter Israel Hershberg. “I get a great deal of satisfaction out of working with new artists,” Groff said. “But if someone wants to do it professionally, they must be able to do it full time.” He feels that schooling is good but no guarantee of success. Rather, he recommends someone work with a successful artist until the individual style is acquired. “I try not to think about style. I prefer it to develop on its own accord, without my conscious input. I paint in an overall painterly-realist style but it varies in type, depending on the subject I am painting,” Groff said. “It is a constantly evolving process. The feeling expressed in a painting comes unconsciously. It mustn’t be contrived.” He chose to paint his San

Carlos neighborhood rather than mountains or seascapes because he likes the play of light on people’s homes amidst the canyons and Mission Trails. “To me it is more interesting,” he said. “It has more meaning to me.” Groff is currently working on a large canvas portraying the view from Tuxedo Park, off Jackson Drive. After that, he plans to take it as it comes. He finds sites just driving through the neighborhoods. He also welcomes commissions to paint a requested view or painting of a home. Samples can be seen at larrygroff.com. —Ken Denbow is a writer in San Diego. Contact him at kiloteltatella@hotmail.com.u

Jazz

Alternative

Fridays: Jazz at the Cosmo at The Cosmopolitan Restaurant and Hotel. Free. 6:30 p.m. OldTownCosmopolitan. com. 2660 Calhoun St., Old Town.

Sept. 27 & 28: Adams Avenue Street Fair. Free. 10 a.m. AdamsAvenueBusiness. com.

Saturdays: Jazz with George and Alan at Bistro Sixty. Free. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. BistroSixtySD.com. 5987 El Cajon Blvd., College Area. Saturdays: Douglas Kvandal with the LiveJazz! Quartet at the Amigo Spot at the Kings Inn. Free. 7 p.m. KingsInnSanDiego.com. 1333 Hotel Circle South, Mission Valley.

Pop Tuesdays: Suzanne Shea and Bob Wade at Bistro Sixty. Free. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. BistroSixtySD. com. 5987 El Cajon Blvd., College Area. Fridays: Nathan Welden at Bistro Sixty. Free. 6:30 p.m. BistroSixtySD. com. 5987 El Cajon Blvd., College Area. Sept. 28: Demi Lovato, Christina Perri and MKTO at Viejas Arena. $33+. 7 p.m. ViejasArena. org. 5500 Canyon Crest Dr., College Area.

Classical Sept. 28: Camarada: A Moment of Happiness at Mingei International Museum. $25-30. 6 p.m. ClassicalMusicSanDiego. com. 1439 El Prado, Balboa Park. Oct. 6: Schubert and Beethoven: A Camera Lucida Concert at Conrad Prebys Hall at UCSD. $25. 7:30 p.m. SanDiegoSymphony.org. 9500 Gilman Dr. #0099, La Jolla. Oct. 10-12: Scottish Fantasy with Hilary Hahn: A Jacobs Masterworks Concert at Copley Symphony Hall. $20-85. Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. SanDiegoSymphony.org. 750 B St., Downtown.

Sept. 28: Johnny Cash Tribute Band Cash’d Out at Civita. Free. 3 – 5 p.m. CivitaLife.com. Intersection of Civita Boulevard and Via Alta, Mission Valley. Oct. 4: The Eagles at Viejas Arena. $129+. 8 p.m. ViejasArena.org. 5500 Canyon Crest Dr., College Area.

Other Sept. 20 & 27: KM2 at The Prado Restaurant. Free. 8 p.m. KM2Music.com. 1549 El Prado, Balboa Park. Sept. 25: Bob Wade at Trisler’s Wine Bar. Free. 7 p.m. Trislers.com. 8555 Station Village Lane, Mission Valley. Sept. 27: Cool Rush at Pal Joey’s. Free. 9 p.m. PalJoeysOnline.com. 5147 Waring Rd., Allied Gardens. Oct. 10: Red Moon Road and Joe Rathburn at Vision Center for Spiritual Living. $15-20. 8 p.m. FolkeyMonkey.com. 6154 Mission Gorge Rd. Suite 100, Grantville. Bands, venues, and music-lovers: please submit listings for this calendar by emailing Jen@ sdcnn.com

24 Mission Times Courier

Sept. 19 - Oct. 16, 2014

THE IDEALFromCONNECTION Don & Melissa Teemsma 7 Key Elements of a Kitchen Remodel

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The kitchen has long been an area for cooking, socializing and enjoying the company of family and friends. You may be looking to add a few upgrades to your existing space, or do a complete overhaul. There is a lot to consider when remodeling a kitchen of any size and the choices you make during the process will ensure your enjoyment of the space for many years to come. Whatever your kitchen remodel needs may be, Ideal is happy to help. No job is too large or small, and our Project Manager will design your kitchen with your priorities and preferences in mind. As you think about redesigning your kitchen, keep these important elements in mind:

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