July 11 - August 15 2014
On the Internet at www.MissionValleyNews.com
Volume VIII – Number 7
New details on city bike sharing program revealed Jeremy Ogul
Editor, Mission Valley News
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People will be able to begin using the bikes by Oct. 30, and the six Mission Valley stations will be installed by the end of this year, said David Silverman, Decobike’s executive representative for San Diego. Decobike has agreed to install 180 stations across the city, though the locations of approximately 20 percent of those stations are still being negotiated with property owners and neighborhood advocacy groups, Silverman said. In Mission Valley, bike docking stations have
an Diego’s new bicycle sharing program is almost ready to roll, according to representatives from Decobike, the corporate sponsor of the city’s program. Disagreements over the placement of bike docking stations contributed to a delay of more than six months, but nearly all issues have been resolved, and Decobike will begin installing the first stations downtown in early September. See DECOBIKE page 6
Resident Leadership Academy graduate Nadia Arambula and facilitator Jeanette Ruiz show off the new Linda Vista crosswalk for which resident leaders lobbied the city.
Program gives residents the tools to push for change Jeremy
Ogul
Editor, Mission Valley News
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omasa Ruiz has lived in Linda Vista for nearly 30 years, but for most of that time her shy personality kept her from speaking up about the problems she saw in the neighborhood. That changed this year after she got involved in the Resident Leadership Academy, a program
designed to teach and inspire residents to create positive change in their communities. The 10-week course, organized through Bayside Community Center, teaches participants how to organize grassroots networks and communicate with public officials and private entities to improve safety, physical activity and access to fresh, healthy foods in the neighborhood. The participants are then encouraged to take those new skills and practice them with realworld projects.
San Diego’s most-used trolley stops Andrew
Keatts
Voice of San Diego
“We see the changes already,” Ruiz said. “A few sidewalks that we mentioned that needed repair — they fixed it already.” Participating in the Resident Leadership Academy has also sparked change in Ruiz’s life, helping her meet new people and speak more confidently. “My kids are really proud of me,” she said with a smile. Linda Vista has changed in many ways since Ruiz first immigrated
t’s an article of faith among many San Diegans that no one uses the trolley. The idea even made it into one of those annoying lists about San Diego your college roommate shares on Facebook. And yes, it’s true that just 3 percent of San Diego County’s workforce relies on any type of public transportation for their daily commute. (In Los Angeles it’s 11 percent, for comparison.)
See LEADERSHIP page 8
See TROLLEY page 8
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RV street parking enforcement begins in August Jeremy
Ogul
Editor, Mission Valley News
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nly a few weeks remain before San Diego begins enforcing its new ordinance banning motorhomes and other oversized vehicles from parking overnight on city streets without a permit. After finalizing some minor details at the end of June, city leaders expect the ordinance to formally take effect around Aug. 1. Residents will have a two-week grace period through Aug. 15 before police begin enforcing the law.
Each vehicle will receive one warning before a ticket is issued. The ordinance defines an oversized vehicle as any vehicle that exceeds 27 feet in length and 7 feet in height, including any attached trailers or loads. The ordinance also covers any camping trailer, house car, boat, dune buggy, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and other motorized or towed vehicles used primarily for recreational purposes. Residents will be allowed to get permits to park restricted vehicles on the street near their home for up to three consecutive nights. See RV PARKING page 3
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LOCAL NEWS
MISSIONVALLEYNEWS.COM — AUGUST, 2014
Applicants race to obtain highly coveted medical marijuana cooperative permits Jeremy
Ogul
Mission Valley News
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he applications to open medical marijuana consumer cooperatives in the Mission Valley, Grantville and Morena areas have begun piling up in city offices since the end of April, when the city began accepting them. The city has so far received at least three full applications for permits in Grantville, one in Mission Valley and one in the Morena neighborhood. In Grantville, Merhdad Banki has applied for a permit at 5959 Mission Gorge Rd. Ron Miller and Nick Hosig have applied for a permit at 4410 Glacier Avenue. Cynthia Morgan is An unpermitted medical marijuana dispensary is already operating out of a building at 3455 Camino Del Rio South. An the contact on an application at applicant has applied for a permit to legally operate a cooperative there. 4365-4375 Twain Ave. In Mission Valley, an appli- Boulevard. While city staff complete the cation has been filed for 3455 For the applicants, it’s a race cant on Glacier Avenue is more months-long process of reviewCamino Del Rio South. The ap- to the finish line. The city ordi- than 1,000 feet from the other ing the applications to determine plication lists Sara Cadenas as nance limits each City Council two Grantville applicants. whether they meet the criteria, Unlike the applications in the applicants have begun to the contact. The building is cur- district to four medical marijuarently occupied by a dispensary na cooperative permits, and all Grantville and Mission Valley, plead their cases before the comthat has been operating without cooperatives must be separated which are in Council District 7, munity planning groups. The the applicant on Buenos Avenue community planning groups do a permit. by at least a 1,000-foot radius. In Morena, an individual repIt appears that two of the ap- in the Morena area falls within not have veto power over the apresented by construction consul- plicants in Grantville — one on City Council District 2, which plications, but they do have the tant Michael Rollins has applied Twain Avenue and one on Mis- has received a large number of authority to make recommendafor a permit at 1028 Buenos sion Gorge Road — may be less applications for dispensaries in tions to the city’s Hearing OfAve., just west of West Morena than 1,000 feet apart. The appli- the Midway area. ficer and to the Planning Com-
He wants what you want. A place where life is good, homes are tasty, trees are everywhere and walking is fun. So throw him a bone and check out the very cool park, dog run, and neighborhoods here at Civita.
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“We are your eyes and ears. That’s why we want to hear your opinion on this.” - Matt Adams, Navajo Community Planners mission, which has the final say if someone appeals the Hearing Officer’s decision. Nick Hosig and Ron Miller — the applicants at Glacier Avenue in Grantville — have spoken at two separate meetings of the Navajo Community Planners, the community planning group that oversees the Grantville area. They told the group on April 21 that the cooperative would be known as Grantville Greens and would focus on providing alternative medicine for patients with cancer and other severe conditions. They said they were motivated by the memory of family members stricken with cancer who struggled with the side effects from more traditional pharmaceutical treatments. They also said the cooperative would limit the number of members in favor of providing a high level of care for a limited numSee APPLICANTS page 12
LOCAL NEWS
MISSIONVALLEYNEWS.COM — AUGUST, 2014
RV Parking, from page 1
Relay for Life raises money to battle cancer R
elay for Life of Mission Valley, hosted at Civita, raised $6,200 to support cancer research and treatment through the American Cancer Society on June 21-22. For 24 hours straight, volunteers camped out together and walked laps as individuals or as part of teams. They also held a Luminaria Ceremony dedicated to family and friends who died of cancer-related illness. The winning team, ATGSD FCPOA Cancer Punchers of the Navy Petty Officers Association, raised $1,940. “We were delighted to see the community of Mission Valley come together to help finish the fight against cancer,” said Julie Bartlett, a representative of the American Cancer Society, in a written statement. “This was a great first step. We’re looking forward to see this event grow as Civita matures.”
Junipero Serra Museum opens doors for annual celebration H
istory lovers and city lead- with Gaspar de Portola, includers will celebrate the history ing Father Junipero Serra, of the Presidio on July 13 at the planted a cross in 1769 on what third annual open house of the is today known as Presidio Hill. Junipero Serra Museum in Pre- Spain in 1774 designated the sidio Park from 4 to 6 p.m. spot as a Royal Spanish PreThe theme of the free celebra- sidio. George W. Marston and tion, organized by the San Diego other San Diegans commemoHistory Center, is “Life at the rated that event 160 years later Presidio.” Historian and author Rudy Shapee will give visitors an idea of what life was like for soldiers at the Presidio under Spanish rule in a lecture titled “Feeding a Garrison: Daily Life in San Diego’s Military Outpost.” The event will also feature remarks from “Presidio Park” by Jim Epler / Creative Commons City Council President Todd Gloria, a musket-fired salute, with the establishment of the live music, games, crafts and re- Junipero Serra Museum, which spawned the San Diego Historifreshments. Spanish explorers affiliated cal Society.
night permit will cost $2 and can be obtained through on online system. Residents are allowed up to 72 one-night permits in a year. On a recent Friday afternoon, a motorhome sat in front of the Allied Gardens home of Dave Holston. It’s usually parked in the desert, where the cost of a parking spot is a bit cheaper than in town, but Holston had it on the street for maintenance and repairs. Holston said he does not anticipate too much of an inconvenience because his motorhome can fit in the driveway on occasions when he needs to park it in town for more than three nights. A few doors down the street, one of his neighbors was cleaning out a trailer parked on the street. “I don’t like it,” said the neighbor, a man named Mike who declined to give his last name out of concern for retribution. “I’m opposed to it. They’re taking more freedoms away.” The new ordinance will probably force him to sell the vehicle since private parking is so expensive, he said. Unlike other parking ordinances, which are handled by parking enforcement officers,
this one will be enforced by police investigative service officers as well as regular patrol officers, because they are the only ones available to work between 2 and 6 a.m., said police chief Shelley Zimmerman. One piece of unfinished business is the lack of an alternative for low-income residents who
live in their RVs. City Council President Todd Gloria has asked the mayor’s office to work with the city’s Real Estate Assets Department to identify unused city property that could be used as a refuge for. “I think there may be unintended consequences if we don’t find a solution,” Gloria said. The ordinance is considered a two-year pilot program. After two years, the city council will have to renew the ordinance if they want it to continue.
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LOCAL NEWS
MISSIONVALLEYNEWS.COM — AUGUST, 2014
CHARGERS: What to expect at ‘The Q’ this season Chris
The rookies to watch this season are Verrett, Attaochu and Reese.
Madaffer Mission Valley News
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ast season, the Chargers put together an offensive machine that was ranked fifth total in the NFL. Philip Rivers had a “comeback player of the year” kind of season as the second highest rated quarterback in the league who finished first in completion percentage, fifth in passing yards and fourth in touchdown passes. Rivers was complemented by a breakout season from third round pick rookie wide out, Keenan Allen, and a rushing attack compiled of Ryan Mathews, Danny Woodhead and Ronnie Brown. After a successful 2014 draft and some offseason moves in free agency, the Chargers face the fourth most difficult schedule in the NFL. They will host and visit teams from the NFC West this season which includes a visit from the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks. With the addition of first round draft pick Jason Verrett and recently acquired Pro Bowl defensive back Brandon Flowers, the Chargers’ secondary looks to improve vastly compared to last year’s squad, which had the 29th ranked passing defense. Veteran pass rusher Dwight Freeney looks to help steer a promising pass rush after his injury from week four of last season
one of the most productive rookies in the NFL. In his four years as the deep threat receiver for Baylor, 22 of Reese’s 29 total touchdowns went for 40 yards or more. While these rookies will certainly contribute, all eyes will be on the phenomenally talented Ladarius Green. Green is a third-year tight end from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette who is going to become a star and huge part of the offense. At 6 feet, 6 inches tall, Green has the size of Calvin Johnson and the surprising speed of Vernon Davis. He’s a freak of an athlete who will likely become the number one tight end over the hall-of-fame worthy Antonio Gates in a year or two. There will be a two tight end scheme with both Green and Gates causing opposing defenses trouble and in it certainly isn’t uncommon for teams to incorporate this style of play in a pass first league. The Chargers are truly contenders to make it into the postseason for a consecutive season and while a Super Bowl championship run remains to be seen, what isn’t in question is the leadership of Rivers, its other veterans and the coaching staff. If the Chargers can both start and end the season strong, a 10-win season might be brewing.
kept him from contributing to his full potential. Also lining up with Freeney is a healthy Melvin Ingram, Donald Butler and second round draft choice Jeremiah Attaochu. Gone and off to head coach Tennessee is former offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt. Last season, Whisenhunt was credited (along with Mike McCoy) for helping Philip Rivers perform remarkably in what was a renaissance season for him. Quarterbacks coach Frank Reich takes over as the new offensive coordinator and with his strategy in the fold, the Chargers are developing a no-huddle, hurryup style offense that will be sure to keep pace with offenses like the Denver Broncos and New England
Patriots. The Chargers this season are healthier than they were six months ago. Malcom Floyd returns healthy after months of rehab and recovery from a devastating neck injury that he sustained during a week two matchup against Philadelphia last season. Ryan Mathews battled a nagging foot and ankle injury late last season but he returns healthy and determined to have another impact season. One returning player who has great upside is 2013 draft pick Steve Williams who unfortunately tore his pectoral muscle in a preseason game and had to miss all of 2013. His untapped potential at cornerback will prove crucial to the secondary and defense as a whole.
The 2014 season might look tough on paper but the keys to success lie partly with the 2014 draft class, and these guys look to make an impact this year. Last season it was draftees Keenan Allen and D.J. Fluker who both played above and beyond what they were asked of. The rookies to watch this season are Verrett, Attaochu and Reese. Verrett might be seen as undersized by critics at 5 feet, 9 inches, but his knack for explosive tackling and his great jumping ability will contribute greatly this season, especially with Brandon Flowers there to mentor him. Attaochu comes from Georgia Tech as the all-time leader in sacks and the “Nigerian Nightmare” is going to be a stud in John Pagano’s 3-4 defense. His pairing with Melvin Ingram will be a force in the division. Tevin Reese is a sleeper to be
LOCAL NEWS
MISSIONVALLEYNEWS.COM — AUGUST, 2014
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Small businesses, workers debate local minimum wage hike Jeremy
Ogul
Mission Valley News
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he minimum wage in San Diego could reach $11.50 an hour within 30 months under an ordinance currently under review at the city council. The proposal by City Council President Todd Gloria would bump the local minimum wage up to $9.75 an hour beginning Jan. 1, 2015. In 2016, it would rise again to $10.50 an hour, and in 2017 it would reach $11.50 an hour. The minimum wage would then automatically be adjusted according to increases in the Consumer Price Index. Local small-business owners say the proposal threatens their ability to do business in San Diego. Employers already have to adjust to increases in the state minimum wage, which rises 12.5 percent to $9 an hour this July 1 and then to $10 an hour in July 2015. While big corporations like Wal-Mart and Target can absorb increases in the cost of labor, further increases “would be a dagger to the heart” of the small businesses that employ fewer than a dozen people, said Mark Arabo, president of the Neighborhood Market Association. The group represents liquor stores, convenience stores and independent grocers, such as Keil’s Market in San Carlos. These kinds of small businesses operate 3 to 4 percent profit margins and don’t have big bank accounts they can dip into to cushion the blow of an increase in the cost of labor, Arabo said. To survive a minimum wage increase, they will have to cut employee hours, increase their workloads and raise prices on consumers, he said. Providers of in-home senior care have also condemned the proposal to increase the city’s
minimum wage, arguing that it will increase the cost of inhome caregivers and force many senior citizens to leave their homes and move into assisted living facilities. “It’s a bad move for our seniors,” said Leslie Bojorquez, owner of a company that provides in-home care for seniors in San Carlos, Del Cerro, La Mesa and the surrounding communities. The caregivers Bojorquez employs already earn more than minimum wage, but if the minimum goes up, she would have to raise pay accordingly to ensure she attracts wellqualified employees, she said. Gloria’s initial proposal to increase the minimum was more drastic. It would have reached $13.09 per hour by July 2017. He revised the plan in midJune so it would only reach $11.50 by 2017. “This is a modest proposal,” Gloria said. “Other cities have done this. It is not a unicorn. It does exist in nature.” Nonetheless, modifying the proposal changed few if any minds were changed in the business community. “Increasing the minimum wage above and beyond what the state has already mandated would put San Diego at a competitive disadvantage compared to nearby cities that have a lower minimum wage,” said Jerry Sanders, CEO of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce. The chamber’s position is that the minimum wage should be left to the federal government “to ensure a level playing field,” and at worst it should be
set by the state government to prevent city-by-city inconsistencies in labor costs, Sanders said. Mickey Kasparian, head of the San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council, said the conversation should be about improving the lives of workers, many of whom cannot afford to take care of their
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families despite working 40 or more hours a week on minimum wage. “This is not a luxury,” he said. “This is a necessity.” He pointed to Washington State, which has the highest statewide minimum wage in the U.S. at $9.32 an hour. “They have the fastest growing economy in our country,” he said. “They have created thousands of jobs.” The proposal appears to have the support of the council’s Democratic majority, while Republican councilmembers, including District 7’s Scott Sherman, are generally against the proposal. Sherman said raising the minimum wage is not the right way to address poverty. “The minimum wage is supposed to protect entry-level workers,” Sherman said. “You’re supposed to learn a couple of skills and move up the economic ladder.”
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DINING & DRINK
MISSIONVALLEYNEWS.COM — AUGUST, 2014
DecoBike, from page 1 been planned for the following locations: • Hazard Center Drive just south of the Hazard Center shopping center • Mission Center Road just south of Camino de la Reina (outside the West Elm store) • Camino de la Reina just west of Camino del Este (outside Staples) • Rio San Diego Drive just west of Qualcomm Way •Fenton Parkway next to the Mission Valley library branch • Rio San Diego Drive just west of the Interstate 805 bridge Three bike docking stations will be placed in Old Town, including one at the Old Town Transportation Center.
A unique business model Decobike recently announced the pricing structure for bike users. Compared to bike sharing programs in other cities, the program in San Diego is noticeably more expensive. Most bike sharing programs follow the same general pricing structure: Users pay an access fee — daily, monthly or annually — that allows them to freely remove a bike from the station for up to 30 minutes at a time. If the bike is not returned to a station within 30 minutes, the user must also pay an overage fee, which is usually charged in 30-minute increments. The daily access fee in San Diego will be $15. By comparison, the daily access fee in New York City is $10; in Austin, Texas it is $8; in Washington, D.C., it is $7; in Minneapolis, it is $6 and in Tel Aviv, Israel, it is $5. The overage fee in San Diego will be $5. In contrast, the overage fee in New York City and Austin, Texas, is $4; in Washington, D.C. it is $2; in Minneapolis and Tel Aviv it is $1.50. Thus, a user who buys a one-day pass for San Diego’s Decobike and takes 32 minutes to return the bike to a docking station would be charged $15 for the pass plus a $5 overage fee, for a total of $20. The same situation in New York City would cost the user $14; in Austin, Texas, it would cost $12; in Washington, D.C. it would cost $9; in Minneapolis it would cost $7.50 and in Tel Aviv it would cost $6.50. The annual membership is similarly more expensive in San Diego than in other cities: $125 (the first 1,500 members will pay only $99). In New York City, the annual
membership is $95; in Austin, Texas, it is $85; in Washington, D.C., it is $75; in Minneapolis, it is $65 and in Tel Aviv it is $70. Though San Diego’s prices stand out compared to other cities, they are not particularly surprising considering that San Diego’s program will be entirely funded by user revenues, said Matthew Christensen, survey researcher with the Transportation Sustainability Research Center at the University of California, Berkeley. Subsidies from local governments in other cities allow their programs to offer artificially low prices compared to San Diego’s Decobike, Christensen said. New York City is the only other city with a bike sharing program that operates entirely on private funding. New York City’s prices are lower than San Diego’s thanks to a $41 million sponsorship deal with Citibike, but the program there is still struggling to stay in the black and is now seeking to change its pricing structure, Christensen said. “Bike sharing is such a nascent industry that we’re quickly learning how to create an effective business model,” he said. “A lot of these systems can’t be self-sufficient with an annual membership priced under $100 a year.” Another factor that makes San Diego’s system pricier is that it will operate year-round, whereas programs in cities such as Minneapolis cost less in the winter because no one is using the bicycles in below-freezing temperatures, according to David Silverman, the Decobike representative. One thing makes San Diego’s pricing scheme unique, though: the availability of flat rate rentals. Rather than buying a one-day membership, users can pay $5 to take out a bike for 30 minutes, $7 to take out a bike for one hour or $12 to take out a bike for two hours. For users who pay the flat rate, there is no overage fee as long as the bike is returned within the allotted time period. “Decobike has installed bikesharing programs in three Florida cities where this flat rate option has been proven to be very successful and heavily utilized,” Silverman said. In exchange for making Decobike the official bikesharing partner of the city, Decobike will pay the city a portion of its profits — a minimum of $1 million over the next 10 years.
French cider – the new Champagne? Karen
Location is key Unlike Mission Valley and Old Town, nearby Linda Vista will not host any of the 180 bike docking stations, nor will any neighborhood east of 30th Street. Some have criticized Decobike and the city for passing over lowerincome nieghborhoods such as City Heights and Linda Vista, where residents generally have a greater need for alternative forms of transportation. Since the city is giving up public land in many cases to provide space for the bike sharing stations, the system should benefit residents, said Sam Ollinger, executive director of BikeSD, a nonprofit bicycle advocacy organization. Ollinger noted that many of the stations are being placed in parts of the city with little to no bicycle infrastructure, such as striped bike lanes or separated bike paths. In New York City, Salt Lake City and Washington, D.C., much of the street infrastructure was in place when the bike sharing systems launched, she said. “Given the publicized opposition to the placement of the bike share hubs and now a fairly original pricing model, I’m very curious to see how this pans out,” Ollinger said. There is certainly plenty of room to expand. Matthew Christensen, the UC Berkeley transportation researcher, said that while San Diego’s 1,800 bicycles will make it one of the largest programs in the country, it will still only meet a small amount of demand. “A city like San Diego could potentially use close to 10,000 bikes,” Christensen said. That will be difficult, however, without funding from the city, because bike stations in less populous and lower income areas are less profitable, he said.
Irizarry Certified Sommelier
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ow will you be celebrating your summer? Chances are you’ll be spending some time around the grill, and with temperatures heating up it’s the perfect time for a cold cider. Anyone who thinks cider is just apple juice probably hasn’t tried French cider. French cider can rival wine in subtlety and complexity. It’s where cider can become fine wine. What sets French cider apart from its Spanish, British and even American counterparts? There are multiple contributing factors, one being its climate. French cider is not just cider, but a beautifully balanced drink that can be described as the champagne of apples. While Champagne, among other regions, make wine, Normandy and Brittany are perfect for quality cider. Their cooler climates proved difficult for grape production but ideal for apples and pears. The other contributing factor is the method. There is often more pronounced complexity in French cider due to the fermentation process. The sweetness is typically balanced with a hefty tannin and acid due to the range of apple varieties used. While American ciders tend to be super sweet or bright and tart, French ciders often have more subtle and rounded flavors. A perfect example is Sidre Tendre by Eric Bordelet. And what sets Sidre Tendre apart from the rest? It has to be the cider-maker. Eric Bordelet was a wellknown sommelier who trained in some of Paris’ top restaurants. When Bordelet decided to leave Paris to tend to the family orchards in Normandy, he first studied oenology in Burgundy to learn the winemaking process. Afterwards, he worked under Didier Dageneau, a legendary winemaker from the Loire Valley in France. Bordelet approaches cider with a wine mentality. It’s no surprise that Bordelet produces an incredible cider.
Bordelet insists that the terroir, not the technique, is what truly distinguishes his ciders from others. Terroir is key when speaking about any great wine, and is no less important to ciders. His family’s 200-300 year old apple and pear trees are situated on schist and granite bedrock with clay soil that gives the fruit their individual flavor. He farms his orchards
organically and biodynamically to produce the best fruit possible. He admits his experience with wine is vital to his cider endeavor. He attempts to make ciders with depth, length and nuance. His goal is to achieve aromatic complexity, distinction between vintages and stability for the cider to age, which is every winemaker’s goal. Bordelet’s Sidre Tendre has a closer comparison to fine wine than to beer and has limitless pairing potential. Sidre Tendre is elegant and crisp; with intense apple flavors and a delicate mousse with a slightly sweet yet restrained finish. It could easily replace Champagne for a celebratory meal at a fraction of the cost for only $12 a bottle. It is remarkable as an aperitif and enhances cream-based sauces, white meats as well as many cheeses. Sidre Tendre is a versatile cider of exceptional character and refinement and is perfect for cider fans and wine drinkers alike.
LOCAL NEWS
MISSIONVALLEYNEWS.COM — AUGUST, 2014
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Dog park opens at Westfield Mission Valley Katelyn
Montero
Mission Valley News
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ver since a 2011 study revealed that there were more American households with dogs than with children, there has been a huge surge in the development of resources and spaces for families and their pets. Dog parks are currently the fastestgrowing urban parks in the United States, and America’s Finest City is no exception. San Diego’s newest dog park is set for it’s grand opening on July 17 in the Westfield Mission Valley mall. Set in the heart of the urban shopping center on the south side of Macy’s, this 300 square-foot enclosed space was designed as a community asset where locals can bring their dogs to play off leash. The idea came from Brandon Matzek, Westfield Mission Valley’s marketing manager, who recognized that the space formerly dedicated to planters would be a great space for a small dog park. “We see people come here with their dogs all the time,” said Matzek. “It seemed like a natural fit to provide a nice amenity for people who already love to come here.” After waiting for the budget to align, designing and planning took one month to complete and construction was completed in only three weeks. The enclosed space features Pedigree synthetic turf, benches, an
automatic watering station and three large trees. Though a seemingly simple concept, pet experts and community planners claim that dog parks actually bring up a very complicated set of both pros and cons. For monthly pet columnist and owner of Mission Valley Pet Sitting Services, Sari Reis, dog parks are met with mixed emotions. With safety being the main concern, Reis explains that dog
parks are much more complicated than they may seem. “The most important thing from my perspective is that the only dogs taken to dog parks are well socialized and can be counted on to behave well around both other dogs and their owners,” said Reis. The pet sitting company owner is no stranger to what can happened when dogs are put into social settings they are not ready for, after two of her own animals were badly
bitten by others at dog parks. Reis believes that if owners are responsible and exercise proper discernment, dog parks can be a great way for animals in urban settings to spend time outdoors without a leash. Dog parks also bring a number of other benefits that can lead to healthy lives for pets, such as socializing in peer group. For trained, well-behaved dogs, peer group socialization is a key component for keeping animals active and happy. Though the Westfield Mission Valley dog park features a minimalistic design, there are also a number of potential upgrades that the park may want to consider depending on how popular the mall park becomes. Creating a double-entry barrier to the park through two separate gates has proven effective in minimizing the threat of off leash dogs running away from their owners, which can be especially dangerous for dog parks near busy roads or parking lots. Despite the debate between the pros and cons of dog parks, one thing that is certain is that they are certainly on the rise. For Matzek, this is the
second dog park he has installed in a Westfield Mall. Formerly the Experience Coordinator at the Westfield UTC in La Jolla, Matzek oversaw a redevelopment project that installed a dog park for the pet owners who would walk their dogs through the area. “It was a definite success and we really saw usage improve over the years,” said Matzek. The Mission Valley mall hopes that this new attraction will be both a reward for their regular customers who bring dogs, as well as provide a community asset and potential attraction for new customers. The dog park grand opening will take place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on July 17, and dogs of all sizes will be able to use the space. The San Diego Humane Society has events planned for the park’s first six weeks: July 26 – Leash your fitness: Learn how much fun it can be to exercise with your dog Aug. 2 – Doggie Café: Socialize and play games with other dog lovers and their dogs Aug. 9 – Loose leash walking: San Diego Humane Society Trainer Angie Fonseca will lead a loose leash walking workshop and spend an hour answering questions about dog training Aug. 16 – Free photos at the photo booth from 1 to 4 p.m. Aug. 23 – Microchip your dog for $10 Aug. 30 – Mobile adoption event
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LOCAL NEWS
Trolley, from page 1 But San Diego’s a big place, so by far the system’s most active with even a small share of transit users more than 34,000 people getting on still represents a lot of people. and off trains there each day, nearly Altogether, the three trolley lines double the next closest station. provide an average of 125,000 rides But the second most active station per day. in the whole system is the blue line’s “If you’d ride the trolley, you stop in San Ysidro at the Mexican could see that it’s simply not the border. There are 17,000 trips case that no one uses the trolley,” beginning or ending there daily, said Metropolitan Transit System including 10,000 riders that start spokesman Rob Schupp. their their trolley ride there every The trolley isn’t widely used day. That heavy supply of riders is citywide, which contributes to the a big part of why the blue line is the perception that no one uses it. But most successful one in the city. there are neighborhoods where Other stations on the blue line, Iris people use it regularly. Avenue in Otay Mesa and Palomar The system’s busiest line, the blue Street in Chula Vista, are also among line, runs from San Ysidro through the system’s most active single-line the South Bay and into downtown. stops. The green line brings riders from The four least-active stations in Santee through Mission Valley the entire trolley system, meanwhile, and into downtown, and the orange line begins downtown and goes through the southeastern neighborhoods before ending in El Cajon. We’re taking a closer look at the trolley and other public transportation in the region and where it could be improved to better understand big debates about San Diego’s future. Do transit investments drive the construction Though it serves thousands of riders on of affordable housing Chargers game days, the trolley stop at nearby? Do dense Qualcomm Stadium is the least-used stop in populations use the system, with an average of just 510 rides a public transit more day, according to MTS data. frequently? Is the public transit system giving residents a legitimate alternative to driving? are all on the green line. As a starting point, we’ve used Qualcomm Stadium is useful for data derived from MTS’s new most people only on event days, automated passenger counting and saw an average of 510 rides system, which keeps track of every each day. Gillespie Field in El rider who gets on or off a train. Cajon wasn’t much better, with an We’ve used the daily averages from average of 656 trips each day. The four months this spring to identify Middletown Station, which is near the most active stations on the the airport but offers no useful way system’s three trolley lines. to get to actually get there, has 724 It’s a broad measure that shows ons-and-offs each day and Mission which parts of the city see a lot of San Diego in Mission Valley, just trolley usage. one stop east of Qualcomm, had an “You could say this is where the average of 898 beginning or ending system is engaging deeply with life trips. and activity, and where the system Taylor, though, said any highis having a bigger effect on these functioning and well-designed neighborhoods, in a comparative transit system will naturally have framework of the rest of San some stops that don’t see as much Diego,” said Brian Taylor, director activity. of the Institute for Transportation “If you only have high-volume Studies at UCLA. stops, you have an incomplete In neighborhoods like Encanto, network,” he said. “There are San Ysidro, Lemon Grove and parts reasons that some people can’t drive of Chula Vista, data show there are even if they want, and need transit, plenty of people who make regular and you need a system that gives use of the trolley. that broad level of coverage.” Overall activity isn’t a perfect Low volume at a station might measure, however. It doesn’t tell be a good reason not to invest in us how riders got to the station— amenities or other expensive work whether they walked, drove or took at the station, he said, but it isn’t on a bus there. And it counts transfers its own an argument to remove any between lines as essentially separate station. trips. But, Taylor said, if a string of stops That means stations with multiple is underperforming, as opposed to a lines show huge activity, even single station, it’s not unnatural for though some of it is from people a transit agency to consolidate those transferring from one train to stops to make the rest of the line another, not coming from or going faster. to anything in the neighborhood. Four of the five busiest stations Contact Voice of San Diego are transit centers where people reporter Andrew Keatts by phone transfer between lines. The station at (619) 325-0529 or by email at at 12th and Imperial, in East Village andrew.keatts@voiceofsandiego. near Petco Park, is the only one org. with stops on all three lines and is
MISSIONVALLEYNEWS.COM — AUGUST, 2014
Leadership, from page 1 from her native Guerrero, Mexico. A surge of gang violence in the 1990s came and went. The parks have been cleaned up. Police spend more time patrolling the streets. At the same time, many problems have lingered, especially those that affect the walkability and safety of the neighborhood. Sign posts in the middle of sidewalks, curbs that are unfriendly to baby stroller wheels, missing crosswalks, not enough street lights — these are the kinds of issues that Ruiz and other graduates of the Resident Leadership Academy have decided to focus on. Staff members from Bayside Community Center have been asking for a crosswalk at an intersection in front of the community center’s building for years, but it was not until the graduates of the Resident Leadership Academy got together and lobbied the city for the crosswalk that it was finally installed, said Rose Ceballos, the center’s director of social services. City leaders are more inclined to listen when they hear a chorus rather than a single voice, Ceballos said. “To try to get changes made, I believe it really takes the community,” she said. City Councilmember Scott Sherman has gotten to know the Resident Leadership Academy folks well over the past several months. They’ve helped his office with the nuts and bolts issues on the ground in the neighborhood, he said. “It’s gratifying to know that with
Change is possible when the citizens come together and communicate effectively through the right channels. our help and their help that we’re actually making a difference in the community,” Sherman said. “People are starting to notice.” Among those who have noticed is Anali Rosales, a 24-year-old Linda Vista resident who got involved in the RLA program after seeing the little victories earlier participants had achieved. Before taking the RLA classes, Rosales said she did not know where to go or who to talk to. Now she and her fellow community members have established relationships with Sherman, representatives from the mayor’s office and other key contacts in city government. One of the top priorities for the graduates of the Resident Leadership Academy now is getting better lighting at parks in the neighborhood, especially Kelly Park, which sits at the end of a cul de sac at the bottom of a hill. The seclusion of the park
attracts criminals, residents say, and they hope installing lighting will deter criminal activity at night. Jeanette Ruiz, who led the first two Resident Leadership Academies as a staff member at Bayside, said she is thrilled to see the community take initiative and engage with local government. “I believe that people shouldn’t just sit and complain,” Ruiz said. Change is possible when the citizens come together and communicate effectively through the right channels, she said. “Everybody in District 7 needs sidewalks, but it’s the way you go about things.” she said. Ruiz recently accepted a new job with the county of San Diego, which provides funding for RLAs in communities across the region. While leaving is bittersweet, Ruiz said she is confident that leaders trained through the program will continue to push to make Linda Vista a better place to live for all its residents. One RLA graduate, Guadalupe Flores, has already been appointed to the board of the Linda Vista Planning Group, which reviews development in the community and makes recommendations to the Planning Commission and City Council. Another graduate of the program will soon join the board of the Linda Vista Recreation Council. Residents interested in learning more about the Resident Leadership Academy can contact Bayside Community Center at (858) 2780771.
Volunteers needed to help foster children V oices for Children is looking for volunteers who can dedicate 10-15 hours a month for 18 months as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for children in foster care. CASA volunteers spend time with abused and neglected children as they navigate the Juvenile Court system. The volunteer becomes one of the few consistent adult presences in the child’s life during this trying time. When social workers and attorneys are overburdened with large caseloads, the court relies on the CASA volunteer to serve as the court’s eyes and ears in the life of a foster child.
CASA volunteers do not need to have any experience in law or education. Many of the volunteers work full-time, work from home or are retired. Voices for Children provides a 35-hour comprehensive training program, and CASAs are
further supported by a full-time professional advocacy supervisor. Several information sessions for interested volunteers are coming soon in the Kearny Mesa area: Monday, July 21 from 6 to 7:30 p.m; Saturday, July 26 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.; Saturday, Aug. 9 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.; and Wednesday, Aug. 13 from noon to 1:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.speakupnow.org/ information-sessions, email volunteer@speakupnow.org or call (858) 598-2230.
LOCAL NEWS
MISSIONVALLEYNEWS.COM — AUGUST, 2014
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ADOPT A PET
HERCULES Breed: American Pit Bull Terrier/Mix Age: 2 years old Sex: Male Colors: Blue Adoption Fee: $95.00
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Strengthen your core to weaken back pain Kelly
Ostrem
ACSM-HFS, CHES Fitness Expert
E
very day people across the country pick up a bag of groceries, play with a child, sit at desks and drive cars. These are all normal activities of daily life, and they are much harder to do when suffering from back pain. Four out of five Americans experience low back pain at some point in their life. There’s a simple way to prevent or decrease this pain: strengthen the core. What is the core? It’s the bridge between your upper and lower body. It helps your arms and legs function well. It helps you stand, sit, reach, twist and so much more. Nearly every action your body can do requires the core. The major muscles of the core include the abdominals (that’s the six-pack muscles), obliques (sides), transverse abdominis (deep muscle that wraps around the body under the abdominals) and erector spinae (back muscles along the spine). These muscles all work together to help stabilize us and maintain our balance, which then helps us move in every direction and prevents us from falling or otherwise injuring ourselves. Doing regular exercises to build the core’s strength is essential to maintaining good back health and continuing normal activities of daily life. There are many ways to improve your core strength. The key is to look for a good mix of exercises. While people often think doing endless amounts of crunches is the answer, it’s important to diversify your exercises and strengthen all the core muscles. Too much focus on one area (like the abdominals) can lead to imbalances (in the back) and cause more injury (which is what we’re trying to prevent). Training the core can be done at home or anywhere you can find a little space. You don’t need fancy equipment to do good, basic exercises. Some of the best core exercises just require your own body weight. If you are looking for more direction or expertise, working with a personal trainer can do wonders. A good trainer can cater a workout to your specific needs and help you track your progress toward your
goals. Or, look for exercise classes and workout videos dedicated solely to the core. Pilates and yoga are excellent for building core strength. Hazard Center YMCA’s Posture Performance is a wonderful class that challenges the core and builds strength through functional movements. However you choose to do it, make it your goal to build a strong core. Your back and your life will be better for it! Here are two general exercises that will help improve your core strength and move more functionally every day. All you need is a small area of floor (use a carpet or mat if you want a little cushion) and a few minutes of time!
Bridge Lift
Lay on your back on the floor or a mat. Bend your knees, keeping your feet flat on the floor and hip-width apart. Engage your abdominals and glutes throughout the exercise. Exhale, lifting your hips off the ground until your body is in a straight line from knees to shoulders. Hold this position for a few seconds, then inhale as you release your hips back to the floor. Pay special attention to make sure you keep your weight on your shoulders (not on your neck!) and don’t push your hips up too far and hyper-extend your back. To make this exercise more challenging, hold the position for longer before releasing back to the floor.
Plank
Lay on your stomach on the floor or a mat. Position your elbows close to your sides. Flex your feet, moving your toes toward your shins and push up onto your forearms with your elbows positioned directly below your shoulders. Keep your core engaged and tight like a corset throughout the exercise. Your body should be in a straight line, parallel to the floor, from your head to your heels. Make sure to keep your hips in line so they don’t drop down or rise up. Hold this position for 15 seconds then lower back to the floor and relax. Make it harder by holding the position for longer and longer each time, working toward 60 seconds and longer. To make it easier, push up from the floor onto your forearms leaving your knees on the ground. Hold the straight-line position from your head to your knees.
he staff at the San Diego Humane Society have learned that I can brighten up a room with my spunky personality and I make every new activity and adventure. I approach life with lots of enthusiasm and I absolutely love to play and get my exercise. I have spent some time in our Behavior and Training Program and will be looking for experienced dog owners who can help me to keep up my training plans and exercises. My trainers say that I am doing a fantastic job and I have quite a few tricks under my belt, like “sit,” “stay,” “leave it,” “come” and “go to your bed.” One of my favorite pasttimes is playing with toys! I am very friendly, energetic, and active. I would really benefit and love to participate in training. I am a handsome and hilarious fellow who is sure to bring endless entertainment to your life! After we spend our day hiking and playing in the yard, I will be ready for a good, long snuggle session. Don’t let my size fool you - I make a great cuddle buddy! One thing though: due to my high energy and rambunctious play-style, I will do best in a home with children over 16 and with no cats, please.
stick, treats, treat bag and ID tag (a $100 value, altogether). My adoption fee includes my spay / neuter, current vaccinations, permanent microchip identification, a certificate for a free veterinary exam, a gift from Hill’s Science Diet, a license if residing in Oceanside or Vista and limited veterinary medical coverage from VCA Hospitals up to $250.
Just for choosing me to be your next furry family member and to make my transition a success, you will receive a complimentary care package that includes a collar, leash, harness, crate, PetSafe toy, bully
San Diego Humane Society and SPCA 5500 Gaines St. San Diego, Calif. 92110 (619) 299-7012 Sdhumane.org ADOPTION HOURS Monday through Friday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Jazz Wednesdays - Gilbert Castellanos Jazz Jam at Seven Grand. Free. 9 p.m. SevenGrandBars.com - 3054 University Ave., 92104 Fridays - Sam Johnson Jazz Group at Cosmos Coffee Cafe. Free. 3 to 5p.m. CosmosCoffeeCafe.com 8278 La Mesa Blvd., 91942 Saturdays - Jazz with George and Alan at Bistro Sixty. Free. 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. www.BistroSixtySD.com 5987 El Cajon Blvd., 92115 Saturdays – Douglas Kvandal with the LiveJazz! Quartet at the Amigo Spot a the Kings Inn. Free. 7 p.m. www.kingsinnsandiego.com - 1333 Hotel Circle South, 92108 August 2 – samdiego Jazz Trio at San Pasqual Winery Tasting Room. Free. 7 p.m. www.SanPasqualWinery.com - 8364 La Mesa Blvd., 91942
ALTERNATIVE July 12 – The Midnight Pine at Riviera Supper Club. Free. 9 p.m. www. RivieraSupperClub.com 7777 University Ave., 91941 July 14 – Big Bad Buffalo, Oh, Spirit, and Octagrape at the Casbah. $6. 9 p.m. www. CasbahMusic.com - 2501 Kettner Blvd., 92101 July 25 – Hills Like Elephants, Relations, and Soft Lions at Soda Bar. $6. 9 p.m. www.SodaBarMusic. com - 3615 El Cajon Blvd., 92104
CLASSICAL July 18 – 19 – Summer Pops: The Music of Abba at the Embarcadero Marina Park South. $27-84. 7:30 p.m. www.SanDiegoSymphony. org - 1 Marina Park Way, 92101 July 25 – Danny Elfman’s Music from the Films of Tim Burton at the Embarcadero Marina Park South.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
MISSIONVALLEYNEWS.COM — AUGUST, 2014
$28 - $90. 8 p.m. www. SanDiegoSymphony.org - 1 Marina Park Way, 92101 July 27 – TICO Summer Pops Concert of light classics from BRd.way, TV, film and more at the Social Hall of Tifereth Israel Synagogue. $20. 3 p.m. www. tiferethIsrael.com/tico - 6660 Cowles Mountain Blvd., 92119
Pop Tuesdays - Suzanne Shea and Bob Wade at Bistro Sixty. Free 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.www.BistroSixtySD. com - 5987 El Cajon Blvd., 92115 - Call and hold your table 619-287-8186 Wednesdays – Westside Inflection at Riviera Supper Club. Free. 8 p.m. www. RivieraSupperClub.com 7777 University Ave., 91941 Fridays – Nathan Welden at Bistro Sixty. Free. 6:30 p.m. www.BistroSixtySD.com 5987 El Cajon Blvd., 92115 July 12 – Danielle Taylor at San Pasqual Winery Tasting Room. Free. 7 p.m. www. SanPasqualWinery.com 8364 La Mesa Blvd., 91942 July 26 - People of Earth at San Pasqual Winery Tasting Room. Free. 7 p.m. www. SanPasqualWinery.com 8364 La Mesa Blvd., 91942
OTHER Thursdays -- Musical Meditation (Kirtan) at Pilgrimage of the Heart Yoga Studio. Free. 8:15-9:15p.m. Pilgrimageyoga.com - 3287 Adams Ave, 92116 July 18 – Saved by the 90s at Pal Joey’s. Free 9 p.m. www. PalJoeysOnline.com - 5147 Waring Rd., 92120 July 19 – Bedhead Revisited at Wolf’s Head Pub. Free. 6:30 p.m. www. WolfsHeadPub.com - 5981 Fairmount Ave, 92120
Bands, venues, and music-lovers: Please submit listings for this calendar by emailing Jen@ScoopSanDiego.com.
Hidden radio studios broadcast most popular music stations in town Jen
Van Tieghem Mission Valley News
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ne of the best kept secrets of Mission Valley is that one of its office parks is home to the studios that broadcast some of the most popular radio stations in the region, including country music station KSON (97.3 FM), alternative rock station KBZT (better known as FM 94.9) and adult contemporary station KIFM (better known as Easy 98.1). The stations are now owned by Lincoln Financial Media and have operated out of offices in Mission Valley since 1989. “When we moved from La Mesa to our current location we were down to two choices: a building in Downtown San Diego and this building,” said Chris Turner, promotions and marketing manager for all three stations. “We chose [Mission Valley] because of its central location, ease to get to/from and ample, free parking. All of those things have gotten a little more complicated over the years. But as our lease has come up for renewal the cost of a move and the selling points listed above keep us here.” Turner’s enthusiasm for the three stations is clear – he recites their spots in the Arbitron rankings (think Nielsen for radio) from memory and mentions that KSON’s top spot was recently surpassed, but only by Easy 98.1. “If someone’s gonna knock us out of number one, as long as its one of our brother or sister stations, I guess it’s ok,” Turner chuckled. Turner has been behind the scenes in radio for as long as he can remember. His father was the famous KSON cowboy, who made appearances and playing promotional events for the station from the 1970s to mid-1980s. As early as age 5, Turner was exposed to radio stations, personnel, and even music talent. He points out a framed photograph of himself at a young age with Dolly Parton. Turner joined the station in his
late teens starting as a part-time promotions assistant tasked with picking up laundry, getting coffee, and other errands. He moved through the ranks as coordinator, promotions manager and other titles before landing his current position. Several changes in recent years have led to Easy 98.1’s coronation as the top radio station in San Diego. The station had been known as Smooth Jazz 98.1 since the mid1990s, but after the format took a steep tumble in ratings it was rebranded as Smooth 98.1 and finally became Easy 98.1 about a year ago and is now a true adult contemporary station.
stations has spawned CountryFest which KSON presents in June and October. The concerts feature several country artists – veteran and up-and-coming - and takes place at the Lakeside Rodeo Grounds with general admission tickets under $20. The popularity of these events seems to be growing, with their last concert selling out. Rounding out the lineup of stations housed in Mission Valley is FM 94.9, a modern rock station that caters to several subgenres and also has a hand in cultivating the San Diego music scene. Between sponsoring local concerts and The Local 94/9 hosted by Tim Pyles on
The station now plays easily recognizable hit songs from the mid1970s up to nearly contemporary songs; you might hear Hall and Oates followed by One Direction followed by George Harrison – quite an assortment. KSON on the other hand is straightforward in its lineup of country music. This has kept them rated in the top ten for quite some time, according to Turner. They also simultaneously broadcast their signal on two stations – 97.3 for San Diego and 92.1 in North County. The success of these country
Sundays at 9 p.m., they do what they can to shine a light on local San Diego bands. And they seem to enjoy their locale as well. “Mission Valley is great in that it is so easy to find good food and/ or to run errands before or after my airshift,” stated Hilary Schmidt Chambers, midday DJ for 94.9. “Target, Old Navy, Ikea, Trader Joe’s, even West Elm - it’s so nice having them all so close. Plus, I love the river - it’s an unexpected stretch of nature right in the middle of all the businesses - it makes me happy whenever I’m near it.”
LOCAL NEWS
MISSIONVALLEYNEWS.COM — AUGUST, 2014
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COMMON SENSE CORNER
Being Ready for Fire Season Scott
Sherman
City Councilmember District 7
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AT&T opens ‘store of the future’ in Mission Valley AT&T opened its fully upgraded and renovated retail “store of the future” in Mission Valley on July 2. The company invested more than $1 million to refurnish and completely redesign the store, expanding it to 2,000 square feet. The goal of the new store design is to take create an interactive shopping experience that allows customers to play and interact with the products instead of simply look at them behind
a counter, said Tammi Terrell, vice president and general manager of AT&T’s Southwest and Hawaii division. “The customer experience is at the heart of this design,” Terrell said. The Mission Valley store already has the highest sales volume of the company’s 20 stores in the San Diego region, Terrell said. The expansion of the store led to a 40 percent growth in hiring, Terrell said. These aren’t
part-time, minimum wage jobs either. The average sales employee makes between $40,000 to $70,000 a year with base pay and commission. AT&T currently has more than 80 job openings at its stores in the San Diego area. Mayor Kevin Faulconer was on hand to help open the store. “The fact that this is the first store I think speaks volumes about who we are as a city and where we’re going,” Faulconer said.
n wake of the wildfires that started in numerous areas of San Diego last month, I wanted to ensure that residents have the information necessary to safeguard your home from wildfires and also to be prepared to depart if you are forced to evacuate. With the ‘03 and ‘07 wildfires fresh in most of our minds, the fires that erupted last month caught many residents by surprise. This is why it is important for you and your family to prepare now and be ready to leave at a moment’s notice. The best way to protect against the damages caused by fires is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are some tips to help protect your home and family during this year’s fire season: Ensure the area around your home is clear of dead or overgrown plants, brush, and vegetation Clean leaves and branches from your roof and gutters Plant fire resistant vegeta-
tion around your home to serve as a barrier to possible fires. Remove any dead growth around your property These are just a few steps you can take to help protect your home. It is also important that you are able to leave at a moment’s notice if you are threatened by a wildfire. Creating a checklist of supplies and keeping them in a readily available location will help save time during an emergency. A few items to be sure to include are: Important documents and photos Prescriptions and other medications Personal computer and hard drives All pets For more information on fire preparedness, please visit the City of San Diego Fire Department’s website at www.sandiego.gov/fire. Please also contact my office for any concerns in the community at ScottSherman@ sandiego.gov or call at 619-2366677. Together we can ensure that our communities will stay safe during the wildfire season.
12 Applicants, from page 2 ber of members. Hosig and Miller returned on June 16 to provide an update to the Navajo Community Planners. “We’ve jumped through the hoops and spent a lot of money to get to this point,” Hosig said. Matt Adams, chair of the Navajo Planners, said the group has been tasked to represent the community and serve in an advisory role for city decision makers. “We are your eyes and ears. That’s why we want to hear your opinion on this,” Adams said. Judy Gervais, who lives on 50th Street, said she opposes the approval of any medical marijuana cooperatives in Grantville, which she said is already struggling with crime from transients who come in on the trolley. “I’ll fight this to the end, because we don’t need this here in our family neighborhoods,” she said. “You guys ought to go downtown.” On June 23, the Linda Vista Planning Group heard from the applicant on Buenos Avenue in the Morena area. “This is kind of a pocket industrial community that we thought would be special because it is so private,” said Michael Rollins, who represents the applicant. “It’s not going to attract a lot of off-street attention.” The facility would be approximately 2,500 square feet, and unlike large out-of-state operations that would only be in it for a profit, the applicant would be committed to giving back to the community, donating excess revenues to local charities, Rollins said. Eventually, once city staff have completed the review to ensure the application is complete, the community planning groups will hold public hearings to gather input and make a recommendation. The application will be considered by the city’s hearing officer, who will issue a ruling one way or the other. Interested parties can appeal the hearing officer’s ruling to the city Planning Commission.
LOCAL NEWS
MISSIONVALLEYNEWS.COM — AUGUST, 2014
Bruxie brings creative waffle cuisine to San Diego Elisse
Miller
Mission Valley News
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hen Mexican eatery La Casitas closed its College Avenue shop in May, San Diego State fraternity brothers and tight-budgeted students alike mourned the loss of their favorite spot for burritos and cheap alcohol. With a rather quick turnaround, a new restaurant has already taken over and given the space an entirely different feel. Bruxie is a cafe-style restaurant specializing in waffles sandwiches. The sandwiches resemble a taco, but instead of a fried tortilla, an airy, crisp waffle houses the ingredients. Waffles are surprisingly versatile, allowing for a wide range of sandwich options. The obvious but delicious fried chicken sandwich isn’t greasy and southern, but rather is a lighter, westcoast take with a thin breast and crunchy cider slaw. Other highlights include the rich, satisfying roasted mushroom and goat cheese sandwich and just about any of the breakfast sandwiches—it’s hard to go wrong with a combination of eggs, meat and cheese on a bed of waffles. Sandwiches aside, Bruxie has an overwhelmingly large menu, proving that a waffle can be consumed at almost any hour of the day. The waffle theme is carried throughout the menu and includes offerings such as waffle fries, waffle sundaes and even salads with baked Parmesan waffle crisps. The menu does continue past the waffle shtick; soup, artisan soda, coffee drinks and soft-serve frozen-custard floats are also available. Where Bruxie truly shines is its desserts, which are also served in the waffle sandwich style. The most popular sweet dish, the creme brulee, consists of creamy custard, bits of burnt sugar (that add great texture) and fresh berries, all inside a warm waffle. Another standout is the lemon cream and berries,
which makes for a nice snack on a warm day. The dishes at Bruxie are inspired by street food, as evidenced by its disposable, portable plating and easy-to-carry sandwiches. However, this also means most meals are very light. “We’re trying to fill you up, but not make you have to pull over to the side of the road to take a nap,” senior general manager Bill Anascavage said. This is the eighth Bruxie location, all of which are located in the western United States. A familiarity with the southern California area specifically means most ingredients are local and fresh, and the quality is evident in all of its dishes. For example, Bruxie doesn’t carry any name brand sodas, but instead serves craft sodas from an Orange-
based company, resulting in unique flavors such as spiced cola (my favorite) and vanilla cream. While this is the first location in San Diego, it won’t be the last. Bruxie will open a location in Horton Plaza in 2015, according to owner Dean Simon. The company has had its eyes on San Diego for some time though. When the plans for the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union were being drawn up, administrators from SDSU approached Bruxie to be one of its featured restaurants. Bruxie had to decline as it didn’t feel stable enough to open another location (they only had two locations at the time). Then, plans were set into motion to open a location at Seaport Village. Those plans fell through, but about 45 days later, Bruxie acquired the
former La Casitas location. “San Diego will be a fabulous area to continue our growth,” Simon said. Bruxie is located near the SDSU residence halls and accepts all student meal plan options. However, the customers at Bruxie generally aren’t students. The times I’ve visited, I’ve seen families (a weird sight on a college campus) and groups of young people that have clearly traveled from other parts of San Diego to see what the waffle hype is all about. It’ll be interesting to see if this demographic changes once SDSU student return for the fall semester. A Bruxie waffle sandwich costs between $7-9, meaning a combo meal costs around $11-13. Considering that Bruxie replaced a restaurant with $6 burritos, it is not likely to attract as many students as its predecessor, but it may not need to. It’s jarring to see a place that once encouraged beer chugging transform into a sophisticated cafe that touts gluten free options and strawberry Arnold Palmers. Bruxie is a delightful addition to the dining options in the Mission Valley area, and I’m glad our community was selected as the location of its first San Diego foray.
LOCAL NEWS
MISSIONVALLEYNEWS.COM — AUGUST, 2014
TIFERETH ISRAEL CUTS MANDATORY DUES
Don’t let a burn injury ruin your summer
David
Ogul
Mission Valley News
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ifereth Israel Synagogue in the San Diego neighborhood of San Carlos is breaking the mold in local synagogue financing by eliminating mandatory membership dues and asking congregants to contribute what they wish. The move comes as congregations across the country deal with growing numbers of Jews who are opting not to affiliate with a particular temple. Administrators at the Conservative congregation are confident that members’ voluntary contributions will be more than enough to sustain operations. “When it came time to build the Mishkan, the tent-sanctuary in which the Israelites worshiped in the Sinai desert, every Israelite was expected to bring a freewill offering of their own choosing to build the sanctuary – but God did not say how much,” noted Rabbi Leonard Rosenthal. “God knew that because of the Israelites’ love of their faith and tradition, they would be as generous as possible. I am confident that our congregants will do the same.” In fact, the Biblical chapter Rabbi Rosenthal refers to is known as T’rumah, which is the name of the new financial model at Tifereth Israel. Synagogues across the country finance their operations by charging dues for members, with factors such as family size and age determining the amount required. And families typically must provide documentation of a financial hardship when seeking a dues re-
duction. At Tifereth Israel, that will no longer be the case. “No Jew who wants to join our congregation will ever again feel daunted by the financial process inherent with the old system,” said Jerry Hermes, the incoming president of the congregation’s Board of Directors. “We hope Jews who are looking for a stress-free and open synagogue experience will give us a long look.” The decision to eliminate mandatory dues is already drawing attention from congregations across the country. That’s because the transformation comes amid growing conversation around the nation questioning the long-term sustainability of the traditional membership dues structure. Declining membership combined with the inflationary costs of operating a synagogue has forced many congregations to hike their dues in recent years to keep afloat financially. And that has contributed, in many cases, to further declines in membership. Tifereth Israel Synagogue is confident it will attract addition-
al members as people discover the congregation has eliminated mandatory dues. And a large number of current members say they will give more than they have in the past. Temple Israel, a Conservative congregation in the Boston suburb of Sharon, Mass., has seen a rise in income and a growth in membership after adopting a similar model. “We strongly believe that this innovative program will enhance and ensure the continued vibrancy of Tifereth Israel,” said former congregation President Dr. Seth Krosner. Approximately 500 people are members of the synagogue, which was founded in 1905 and remains one of the larger Conservative congregations in the region. The Tifereth Israel Synagogue campus at 6660 Cowles Mountain Boulevard in east San Diego is home to the Silverman Preschool, Tifereth Israel Torah School, and the nondenominational Tifereth Israel Community Orchestra. Tifereth Israel is an egalitarian congregation that has long represented both tradition and innovation in the Jewish community.
Every summer, local hospital emergency rooms fill with people seeking treatment for summer burn injuries. The Burn Institute urges people to think about how to prevent fire and burn injuries this summer.
Camping
Camp Fires
First Aid for Burns
1. Start in the center of the maze. 2. Get to the exit on the left as fast as possible. 3. If you make it to the exit on your first try, congratulations!
ANSWERS ON PAGE 16
•Adults should always supervise children around campfires.
•Always use a flame retardant tent and set up camp far away from any campfires. •Only use flashlights or batUltraviolet Rays tery-powered lanterns inside •Always apply a sunscreen of the tent - do not use liquid25 SPF or greater when going filled heaters or lanterns. outdoors. •Always build your campfire •Serious sunburns can occur down wind away from your tent even when it is cloudy. – clear all vegetation and dig a •Wear dark sunglasses to pit surrounded by rocks before protect your eyes, and wear a building your campfire. broad brimmed hat to protect •Store liquid fire starter (not your head and neck. gasoline) away from your tent and campfire and use dry kinBarbecues dling to freshen a campfire. •Always supervise a barbe•Always put out a campfire cue grill when in use. when going to sleep or leaving •Keep children and pets the campsite. To extinguish the away from grills. fire, cover with dirt or pour wa•When using a charcoal grill, ter over it. only use charcoal starter fluids designed for barbecue grills - do Wildfire not add fluid after coals have •Current dry conditions and been lit. hot temperatures can pose a se•When using a gas grill, be rious Wildfire threat to county sure that the hose connection is residents. tight and check hoses for leaks •Supervise your children at – applying soapy water to the all times to keep them from gethoses easily and safely will re- ting into mischief. veal if there are any leaks. •Keep lighters and matches •Always dispose hot coals locked away and do not let chilin designated fire receptacles dren play in canyons. - buried coals retain intense •Keep magnifying glasses heat for up to 24 hours and may away from small children – in cause a serious burn injury to just seconds small children can an unsuspecting passerby who accidentally begin a small fire steps on them. or burn themselves. •When building a campfire always use a designated fire pit. •Before you leave your campsite, make sure the fire is properly extinguished. •Douse and stir the fire with water. •Never leave a fire unattended.
Sudoku
Maze Escape
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•If your clothes catch on fire, Stop, Drop, Roll, Cool and Call 9-1-1 •Always cool a burn area with cool water. •Never use ice, butter, Vaseline or other ointments. •For serious burns, seek immediate emergency treatment.
Math Squares
A sudoku puzzle is a grid of nine by nine squares or cells, that has been subdivided into nine subgrids or “regions” of three by three cells.
Try to fill in the missing numbers.
The objective of sudoku is to enter a digit from 1 through 9
1. Each number is only used once.
in each cell, in such a way that:
2. Each row is a math equation. Each column is a math equation.
1. 2. 3.
Each horizontal row contains each digit exactly once Each vertical column contains each digit exactly once Each subgrid or region contains each digit exactly once
ANSWERS ON PAGE 16
Use the numbers 1 through 16 to complete the equations.
3. Remember that multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.
ANSWERS ON PAGE 16
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LOCAL NEWS
Linda Vista skate park wins $3 million grant A
dvocates for a skate park in Linda Vista achieved a major victory when they won a state grant of $3 million announced July 1. The grant was made by the state Department of Housing and Community Development through its $200 million Housing Related Parks Program, which was authorized by the voter-approved Proposition 1C in 2006. The city has identified an approximately 40,000 square foot space for the skate park in the southeast corner of the existing Linda Vista Community Park on Levant Street. The Tony Hawk Foundation has also granted $40,000 to the Linda Vista Skate Park project. With money in hand, city Park and Recreation officials will begin a series of community workshops to develop the design and
MISSIONVALLEYNEWS.COM — AUGUST, 2014
New transportation option available for Mission Valley R
features of the skateboarding facility, including ramps, lighting, access and viewing areas. The skate park has broad community support from civic leaders and business owners in Linda Vista as well as City Councilmember Scott Sherman. “I was thrilled to hear the news,” Sherman said. “This was
community-driven from the moment I took office. It was one of the things people in Linda Vista talked to me about.” The city also received a $1.5 million grant from the state and $40,000 from the Tony Hawk Foundation for the construction of a new skate park in City Heights.
ides & Smiles — a transportation program that helps older adults get to medical appointments, grocery stores, social and religious functions — recently expanded to serve residents of the 92108 ZIP code in Mission Valley, as well as residents in the 92116, 92123, 92014 and 92029 ZIP codes. Organized by Jewish Family Service of San Diego’s On the Go program, Rides & Smiles is the largest volunteer-based transportation service in San Diego County. As a result of the expanded service, the program expects to provide more than 42,000 rides in the next year. Jewish Family Service aims to recruit and train 100 new volunteers this year, with a special emphasis on the new service areas.
“Individuals age 60 years and older represent the fastest growing segment of San Diego County’s population, with the number of residents expected to more than double by 2030,” said Meredith Morgenroth, director of senior transportation for Jewish Family Service, in a written statement. “The lack of easy, accessible and affordable transportation for seniors is a problem recognized at the national, state and local levels.” For additional information, call (858) 637-3050 or visit www. jfssd.org/onthego.
GINA’S City challenges residents VALLEY VIEWS to excercise this summer By Gina Cord, founder of Mission Valley News
Yokohama, Japan, is one of San Diego’s sister cities. Photo credit: Luke Ma / Creative Commons
Mayor Kevin Faulconer to dedicate sister cities signs
World conference at the Town & Country Hotel & On July 21 from 9 a.m. to 11 Convention Center
a.m. at the San Diego Civic Center Concourse Plaza, Mayor Kevin Faulconer together with David Edick, Jr., President of the San Diego International Sister Cities Association, will dedicate the signs. San Diego has 15 sister cities spread around the globe and all are listed on these new signs that will become a part of San Diego’s downtown scenery. The sister city program was founded by President Eisenhower during his term as President of the United States in order to join together the people of other countries with the USA in promoting cultural, educational and economic benefits for all to share. Mayor Faulconer is an avid believer in this same philosophy and during his term hopes to make it a top priority. Several of my friends and myself are involved in the promotion of the Leon (Mexico)/San Diego sister city board in a continuing effort to keep the public informed on the important work of the sister cities.
Another international group with the same thought in mind of educating people to lasting peace and cultures of around the globe is the World Council for Curriculum and Instruction (WCCI) who are expecting approximately 500 members for their 16th conference on Aug. 17-24 in San Diego. The title of the conference is: Integrating Education For A Lasting Peace And Care For The Planet Earth. Carole Caparros of Alliant International University here in San Diego and on the conference’s organizing committee advises, “This will be a very well-attended conference as our members from around the world are looking forward to the trip to San Diego and to the many educational advantages that are found here.” We welcome these brilliant minds to help enlighten us on peace, culture and trends from around the planet! If you have more News and Interesting People from the world, contact Gina Cord at 619.683.2434 or email cordgina@gmail.com.
P
ark and Recreation staff are launching a new program beginning July 14 that challenges participants to walk 30 miles in a city park in 30 days. An alternative challenge is for participants to swim 20 miles in a city pool — more than 1,000 laps. City staff will lead walks through community parks. Participants can also walk or swim on their own. Residents who are up for the
challenge can sign up between July 14 to August 1 at one of the city’s many swimming pools and recreation centers. (Nearby centers include the Linda Vista and Serra Mesa recreation centers.) Participants who sign a commitment log will receive a free wristband signifying their participation in the program. Participants who complete the challenge will be awarded with a
free t-shirt. “We are so excited to provide this program to the community” said city Park and Recreation Director Herman Parker in a press release. “We hope it encourages our residents to get out and visit our park sites and take advantage of the unique opportunities our parks provide. Let’s get fit San Diego!”
Suspect charged in Mission Valley homicide case A
man accused in the shooting deaths of two brothers and a woman who was engaged to one of them -- a crime that came to light when two of the victims were found mortally wounded in a parked car at a Mission Valley mall last Christmas Eve -- pleaded not guilty June 25 to murder charges that could lead to the death penalty. Carlo Gallopa Mercado, who is charged with three counts of murder and a special circumstance allegation of multiple murders, was ordered held without bail. District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis will decide later whether the 29-year-old defendant will face the death penalty or life in prison without parole if he’s convicted. Mercado’s arrest June 20 in Mira Mesa came nearly six months after Ilona Flint and Salvatore Belvedere, both 22, were found fatally shot shortly before 1:30 a.m. Dec. 24 at Westfield Mission Valley, which was open late for last-
minute holiday shopping. Flint managed to call 911 shortly before she died at the scene. Belvedere died at a hospital two days later. Gianni Belvedere, 24, was missing for several weeks following the shootings of his fiancee and brother. In mid-January, his body was found in the trunk of a car outside a fast-foot restaurant in Riverside. He also had been shot in the head. Investigators found “substantial probable cause” linking Mercado to the slayings, homicide Lt. Mike Hastings said, but declined to elaborate. The lieutenant said he wasn’t sure there was any relation between the defendant and the victims. Outside court today, Deputy District Attorney Brian Erickson would not comment on a possible motive. “At this point, you know, motive can be anything,” the prosecutor said. “It is an ongoing investigation.”
Mercado’s attorney, Michael Berg, said his client was “dismayed” about being arrested and charged with the murders. Berg said Mercado -- whom he called a gun aficionado -- was found with two pistols and an assault rifle in his car on Jan. 18 after target practice. Mercado pleaded guilty to possession of a silencer and was scheduled to be sentenced on that case next month, Berg said. The attorney said he didn’t know if prosecutors were alleging that Mercado’s guns were used in the killings. A status conference was scheduled July 10 to see if Berg will remain on the case.
LIBRARY EVENTS
MISSIONVALLEYNEWS.COM — AUGUST, 2014
Summer Reading Program – July 17 through July 31 Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Our Summer Reading Program continues with weekly music, magic, wacky science and animal performances appropriate for all ages. Join us for the fun, and then sign up for the Summer Reading Program while you are here – or claim your prizes! •July 16: Extreme Rahim •July 24: Krypton Yvonne •July 31: Raggle Taggle Band Assemblymember Weber’s Mobile Office Monday, July 21, 10 a.m. to noon Connect with Assemblymember Weber’s staff here in your community, and get help with any problems you are having with public agencies, ask questions about legislation, and learn about state and local services. Issues that staff can assist with include renter’s and homeowner’s assistance programs, property tax issues, consumer complaints, and unemployment and disability insurance. No need to make an appointment, just stop in! Film Forum: The Grand Budapest Hotel Wednesday, July 23, 6 to 7:45 p.m. The latest cinematic styling from Wes Anderson is a semiabsurdist, twisty tale of conspiracy, theft and murder. Ralph Fiennes stars as a concierge who becomes embroiled in the murder investigation of his most loyal guest and the following cutthroat race to claim her inheritance. The all-star cast features Jude Law, F. Murray Abraham, Bill Murray, Adrien Brody, Owen Wilson and Willem Dafoe. 100 minutes, discussion to follow. Paws for Reading Second and fourth Mondays, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. New readers can get some valuable practice time with a very non-judgmental certified therapy dog, courtesy of the nonprofit Love on a Leash. Try out those longer words – dogs don’t care if you get them wrong, they just want to hear you read! Baby Signs Storytime: First and third Tuesdays, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m Parents often wonder, “What is my baby thinking?” There is a way to find out: teaching your baby some basic signs using American Sign Language will fill the gap. Communication is said to be the foundation of a solid relationship; learning to sign with your baby will build that bond early and provide you a bridge from infancy to childhood.
Linda Vista Planning Group General Meeting Monday, July 28, 5:30 p.m. This is an open meeting of the Linda Vista Planning Group. The public is encouraged to attend. Election of Officers will be held at the meeting for those seeking a leadership role on the Planning Group board. The Anime/Manga Club Wednesdays, 5 to 6 p.m. Discuss fantastic anime and manga new and old: their history, storylines, possible storyline revisions, and the latest news. Club members have a say into what anime and manga titles should be added to the Library collection! For teens only. Crafts for Kids Mondays & Fridays 4 to 6 p.m. Stretch your imagination and create fabulous crafts! Every week the craft is different! Homework Help Wednesdays, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Kids: need help getting your homework done? Our tutors will assist you! They specialize in English, Math, Science, and History. First come, first served.
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Morning Storytime with Kathie Mondays, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Children and their families are invited to join us for stories, rhymes, and songs. Storytime with Andie Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Stretch your imagination! Enjoy a story told energetically! Toddler Yoga Storytime First Thursday of the month, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Toddlers will enjoy the calming, meditative effects of yoga while interacting with their parents and the other children participating. Vietnamese Storytime with Nhi Saturdays, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Come enjoy exciting stories told in Vietnamese! Vietnamese Storytime with Vy Tuesdays 3:30 to 4:15 p.m. Come enjoy exciting stories told in Vietnamese!
Linda Vista Branch Library is located at 2160 Ulric St., San Diego. Visit lindavistalibrary.org or facebook.com/lvlibrary. The library is open Monday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Tuesday and Wednesday 12:30 to 8 p.m.; Thursday and Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; closed Sunday.
Toddler Storytime Fridays, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Storytime designed for toddlers, featuring songs, rhymes, and fingerplays. Yoga for Adults and Teens Tuesdays , 6 to 7 p.m. Are you looking for a workout program that’s easy to learn, requires little or no equipment, and soothes your soul while toning your body? If strengthening your cardiovascular system, toning and stretching your muscles, and improving your mental fitness are on your to-do list, than yoga is for you! Yoga for Kids First and third Mondays, 1 to 2:00 p.m. Kids will learn how to calm and quiet themselves , develop strong & healthy bodies, and set a foundation for life-long well-being in a relaxed and fun environment. Zumba Basic Mondays, 1 to 2 p.m. Join the Zumba craze! Find out what makes this fun workout such a hit. A towel and bottled water are recommended for our Zumba sessions. Zumba Gold Fridays, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Zumba Gold is a lower impact version of our Zumba Basic class on Mondays, but just as fun! The moves have been carefully designed to be easy to follow by participants of any size or age.
GET INVOLVED!
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Todd Kammer Todd@SDCNN.com
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OUR NEXT ISSUE The next issue of the Mission Valley News comes out Friday, August 15. The advertising deadline is Saturday, August 8. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisements or material submitted which are deemed to be objectionable. Publisher’s liability for errors: Mission Valley News assumes no financial liability for errors nor for omission of copy and upon request will furnish a letter of correction to the advertiser. The Publisher, Mission Publishing Group, LLC., shall not be liable for any error in published advertising unless an advertiser proof is requested in writing 12 days prior to publication date and clearly marked for corrections. If the error is not corrected by the Publisher, the liability, if any, shall not exceed the space occupied for the error. Further, the Publisher shall not be liable for any omission of an advertisement ordered to be published. On written request, Publisher shall reschedule and run the omitted advertisement at the advertiser’s cost. All claims for adjustment must be made in writing within 30 days of the date of publication. In no case shall the Publisher be liable for any general, special or consequential damages. Equal Housing Opportunity: Real estate advertising in Mission Valley News is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or
national origin or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Mission Valley News will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate that is in violation of the law. This is to notify Mission Valley News readers that all dwellings advertised in Mission Valley News are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or TTY at 1-800-927-9275. News and information printed in Mission Valley News is obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but accuracy on information sent to the paper cannot be guaranteed. Articles and opinions of writers or letters to the editor that are submitted for publication to the Mission Valley News are the views of the writers and should not be considered the views of the publisher. Content of paid advertisements is solely the responsibility of the advertiser. © 2014, all rights reserved.
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LOCAL News
MISSIONVALLEYNEWS.COM — AUGUST, 2014
Move Over Rover: The Baby’s Coming Home For many of us, a dog or cat is our first “child” and as such, we lavish them with love and attention.
Sari
Reis
Owner of Mission Valley Pet Sitting Services
www.missionvalleypetsitting.com
A
few months ago I did a consultation for a family with a 4-year-old Lab and a 2-year-old toddler. During the course of our conversation, I discovered the dog had been walked only occasionally since their toddler had been born. They apparently didn’t have time to walk him anymore so he was relegated to doing his business in the backyard. I was incensed. This dog had been with them since he was a puppy. For the first two years of his life, he was the center of their world and was the focus of all their love, time and devotion. Then, the baby came along, and the dog was pushed to the side. Even something as simple as a walk around the neighborhood was denied him. For many of us, a dog or cat is our first “child” and as such, we lavish them with love and attention. It is unfair and cruel to all of a sudden withhold our time and care as we administer to the demands of our new bundle of “human joy.” This “move over Rover” attitude can also create a great deal of resentment in the animal toward the new arrival, and that can be SUDOKU ANSWERS FROM P. 13
MATH ANSWERS FROM P. 13
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dangerous. Of course the status quo and logistics are going to change dramatically when the baby comes home and our time is going to be spent very differently, but there is a right way to go about the transition that starts long before the stork’s arrival. Begin thinking about what the new routine might look like in regard to feeding, walking, and playing with your pet and try to initiate it as early as possible. Do it gradually so the
animal gets used to it and has time to adjust. Quantity of time spent with your pet will have to change, but be sure he gets some quality time with you. Consider hiring a dog walker to exercise your dog a few times a week or find a good doggie daycare to get him some playtime and socialization with other dogs. If possible, try to introduce the smells, sounds and sight of a baby as well as the baby equipment to your pet before
you bring the infant home. Dogs and cats are highly sensitive and they need to adjust to this assault on their senses. Perhaps a friend or relative with a baby can come over for visits. Failing that, there are DVDs with baby sounds and you can buy a life-size doll and put some baby powder on it. Reward your pet for being calm around the “baby” and baby equipment. Don’t hesitate to call on a trainer for assistance
with behavior. There is also a wealth of wonderful articles online on how to introduce your dog or cat to your new little human. Lastly, be sure your pet is in good health before the baby’s homecoming. The cardinal rule however, is NEVER, under ANY circumstances, leave your pet and baby unsupervised for ANY length of time! By doing your preparation properly and making a smooth transition, both your human kids and furry kids can be very happy together and on their way to becoming best friends. Sari Reis is a Certified Humane Education Specialist and the owner of Mission Valley Pet Sitting Services. For more information, contact her at 760644-0289 or www.missionvalleypetsitting.com.