La Mesa Courier, July 24th, 2020

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 7 July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

Follow us on social media

County COVID update.

Page 16

INSIDE

NEWS BRIEFS

THIS ISSUE

CANDIDATES EMERGE IN CITY COUNCIL RACE

his lifelong hobby as a ham radio operator.

“Most of my career has been in research and development and electronics as an electrical engineer,” he said. “My connection with NASA began back in ‘94 when I was asked to join a

The race for La Mesa’s two open City Council seats is starting to take shape. Although potential candidates have until the end of July to file papers, two challengers and one of the two incumbents have already made unofficial announcements they plan on running.

At a recent online meeting of the La Mesa Foothills Democratic Club, incumbent Colin Parent said he would seek reelection to the Council.

Resident activist Jack Shu also announced he is running for a Council seat.

On it’s website, the San Diego County Republican Party announced it has endorsed local realtor Laura Lothian in the City Council race.

Incumbant Kristine Alessio — who left the Republican in 2017 citing the party’s unwillingness to confront President Trump’s racism following a white nationalist gathering in Charlottesville, Virginia — also confirmed in an email to the

SEE SPACE RADIO, Page 4

SEE NEWS BRIEFS, Page 4

B NEWS Daycare dilemma

Daycare operators struggle amid coronavirus. Page 2

B FOOD & DRINK Winging it Kerry Banke with the ISS ham radio’s multi voltage power supply he built in his garage (Courtesy Kerry Banke)

Space radio Dirty Birds serves up unique takes on chicken wings. Page 11

La Mesan develops device for the ISS

By JEFF CLEMETSON | La Mesa Courier

La Mesa resident Kerry Banke jokingly describes himself as “a geek before the term ever came

B EDUCATION

Historic teachers

up.” Now retired from his job at Qualcomm, Banke is doing what one would expect a “geek” to do in retirement — work on a special project for NASA involving

In District 2 County Supervisors race, Anderson highlights bipartisan record Grossmont High School’s plaques honor its top educators. Page 12

B ALSO INSIDE

Opinion Politics Village Voices Books Art Business Directory Classifieds Puzzles

✓

Decision

2020

By JEFF CLEMETSON | La Mesa Courier

6 7 9 15 15 18 19 19

Joel Anderson is a name most East County residents know. He has been running for public office to represent the region in various seats since 1998. This year, he is running to represent District 2 on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors and in the March 3

primary, his name recognition and resume of public service helped him secure the most votes — 35.5% — in a field of four candidates.

Now that the race for the District 2 seat — vacated by Dianne Jacob after recently-adopted term limits capped her at 28 years on the board — is down to two candidates, Anderson is hoping his record of working on bipartisan bills in the state legislature will catapult him to the board in November.

The District 2 race is predicted to be one of the closest. Anderson, a Republican, will face fellow conservative Poway Mayor Steve Vaus, who garnered 31% of the vote in the primary. Another conservative candidate, Brian Sesko, took 6.8% of the vote and Democratic candidate Kenya Taylor came in third with a surprising finish of 26.7% in the historically deep-red district.

SEE ANDERSON, Page 17

B CONTACT US

OUR FAMILY CARES FOR YOURS

Editorial (858) 270-3103 x130 jeff@sdnews.com Advertising (951) 296-7794 hfine@sdnews.com www.sdnews.com San Diego Community Newspaper Group

Joel Anderson (Courtesy photo)

Dr. Roy С Springer, MD Family Medicine

8/27/20

Center For Family Health is East County' s top destination for excellence in Primary Medical Care With over 100 years of combined experience, Sharp has rated our physicians in the top 1% in San Diego Our on-site Dermatologist, Dr. Alexander Stein, MD, FAAD, sees new patients for dermatological and cosmetic exams

Dr. Stephen Reitman, MD Internal Medicine & Geriatrics

New Patients Welcome - Most major insurances accepted, including Sharp and Medicare - Call today to make an appointment

Dr. Mirwais Saifi, MD Family Medicine

Dr. Halyna West, MD Family & Holistic Medicine

Center For Family Health • 6280 Jackson Dr. Ste 8, 619-464-1607

2

NEWS ‘In it until the wheels fall off’ July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

Childcare providers discuss impact of coronavirus

By MAKENA HUEY | La Mesa Courier

When the pandemic began, Bibi Carpenter, center director of University City KinderCare, warned the teachers about its impact.

“This is the new normal, this is what we’re going to have to start doing, there is a risk that you could potentially become exposed,” Carpenter said.

Then, she asked each of them if they were still willing to continue working at the daycare.

All of the teachers, including Jem Grey, said, “We’re in it until the wheels fall off.”

From the newly implemented health precautions to the increased risk of exposure, the two childcare providers discuss the impact that coronavirus has had on their lives and the lives of the children for which they are responsible.

FOLLOWING GUIDELINES

Carpenter said the most significant change she has noticed since the pandemic began is an increased need to be knowledgeable about safety precautions.

“You just have to be super flexible and stay calm because being in this industry — especially being a director — the parents and the staff look to you for the most up-to-date rules and regulations,” Carpenter said.

The daycare center and early childhood education facility has 150,000 locations nationwide, and — unlike the 600 San Diego County facilities that immediately closed — the University City location has remained open during the duration of the pandemic. The staff immediately deep cleaned the entire facility, and teachers completed a mandatory training session on safety guidelines.

The facility typically accommodates a maximum of 132 children, but with state-imposed limitations and concerned parents, only 30 children currently attend the daycare. Carpenter said these smaller group sizes have created a financial burden.

According to a July 20 KPBS article, this negative impact on childcare providers is exacerbating the pre-exisiting shortage of childcare spots in San Diego County, contributing to the economic crisis. Economists have estimated that $50 billion over the next six months would need to be spent nationwide to sustain the childcare industry, and the county is proposing that $25 million in CARES funds be allocated to schools and daycares to help compensate for the loss.

The significant decrease in children, however, has made social distancing easier, Carpenter said.

The staff set up a pod structure in which teachers are assigned to specific classrooms, and they placed markers on the floor to designate where children can sit and stand.

KinderCare now opens an hour later and closes an hour earlier so staff members have sufficient time to sanitize the classrooms.

Parents are now required to drop their children off at the front door rather than entering the building, and teachers take the children’s temperature upon arrival before having them wash their hands.

PRACTICING SELF-CARE

Grey, who also serves as program specialist, said the stress of the coronavirus is impacting children as young as 2, prompting her and her fellow teachers to talk to the children about how to stay safe and take care of each other during this time.

“One of the main things that we’ve seen in the classroom is that we’re having more difficult conversations with the children and just explaining to them how things have changed but in a positive manner,” Grey said.

Grey said the teachers often discuss the precautions they are taking outside of the classroom to encourage their students to do the same.

(Image by Rudy and Peter Skitterians via Pixabay)

“We’re open enough here to have each other’s back and create an open environment where the kids can talk about things too,” Grey said.

Teaching children about social distancing and other ways to remain safe during the pandemic begins at home and is expanded upon in the classroom by encouraging children to ask questions, which Grey said helps alleviate any tension they may be feeling.

When a child expresses fear regarding the virus, Grey said she takes them to a secluded area of the classroom, calming them down and explaining the situation in a way they can easily understand.

“We’re all going to work together to make sure that the world is safe and healthy,” Grey tells her toddlers.

Many parents are understandably worried that the coronavirus will negatively impact their children’s education, but Grey said children are also learning positive life lessons during this time.

ALVARADO HOSPITAL EMERGENCY SERVICES If you feel you are having any kind of emergency, do not wait to come to the Emergency Room.

Alvarado Hospital is a STEMI Severe Heart Attack Receiving Center and a certified Advanced Primary Stroke Center

02099.071620

We will keep you SAFE SAFE..

AlvaradoHospital.com

Grey said new classroom routines have taught the children to look out for each other and themselves, as more experienced students will teach new students the safety guidelines and gently remind them if they are standing too close.

“It’s really enabled the kids to be more autonomous,” Grey said.

“We want kids to be able to speak up from themselves and put themselves in a healthy environment.”

FEELING SAFE

Although they recognize that their job puts them at higher risk for being exposed to COVID-19 — especially because many of their students are children of essential workers — Carpenter and Grey said they feel safe at KinderCare because they are putting in the effort and taking precautions.

“I honestly feel more nervous about going to the grocery store than I do being here at work just because of the type of environment that we set up,” Carpenter said.

Grey agreed that the staff’s steps to eliminate unknown variables have created a secure space.

“The parents usually ask me when I’m doing a zoom call or tour, ‘Do you feel safe?’ and I tell them I do suffer from autoimmune issues and I tell them there’s no other place I’d rather be than right here because I know what’s going on in here,” Grey said.

Both Carpenter and Grey said they are grateful that so many parents trust them to care for and teach “their little gifts — their little angels” during this unprecedented time. As a result, they promise to be as responsible as possible outside of their workplace.

“Ultimately, it’s important that people are open and transparent,” Carpenter said. “What happens here is so pertinent so we don’t go home and spread it to our families.”

The KinderCare app has become especially helpful because it allows the teachers to communicate with parents remotely and update them about their children’s accomplishments throughout the day.

“We have created a really close bond with the families that have been with us through this time and our staff that have stuck it through,” Carpenter said.

BEING APPRECIATED

Being a childcare provider during this time has been challenging, but one positive outcome SEE DAYCARE, Page 8 02099.AHMC.AD.ER_is_Safe_Ad_MTC_LMC.071620.indd 1

7/16/2020 3:51:14 PM

NEWS sdnews.com City Council plans town hall on May riots

By KENDRA SITTON | La Mesa Courier

Forty-six days after La Mesa erupted in violence after what started as peaceful protests, La Mesa city officials have moved forward with a plan to host a town hall about the day and the city’s response.

On July 14, the City Council unanimously voted in favor of directing staff to find a virtual platform that fits the needs of the event as well as a date. Those recommendations will be voted on at the next City Council meeting on July 28.

By that time, the official investigation into the bean bag shooting of Leslie Furcron that left the grandmother blinded in one eye will be over since Chief Walt Vasquez has 60 days to complete the investigation.

Vasquez, along with other city officials, will be facing tough questions at the town hall. People who gave public comments at the City Council meeting showed the range of what they may be asked – from whether the FBI knew about people being paid to riot to why officer who shot Furcron is still employed and why his name has not been released.

Members of the public who sent comments brought up other issues with how the town will be run. Many advocated for hosting the town hall outside at a park with social distancing and masks enforced so that officials and civilians could build better rapport during the session. However, the City Council feared people would be too tempted to take off their masks in order to speak at a microphone.

People also spoke out against the town hall being held in a way where people are forced to send questions ahead of time that would then be pre-selected. They wanted a live option so people would be uncensored as well as react to new information. City Staff were told to find a platform that best suited that format.

Speakers may also open the town hall to explain some of the actions already taken and why that happened. In particular, Council member Akilah Weber said someone should explain what caused investigation and response to be perceived by so many as slower compared to other cities.

“There are a lot of questions about why things move as slowly as they do in La Mesa when it comes to issues like this,” Weber

said. “I know we’re bound legally by some things because of the type of city that we are.”

She requested someone spend several minutes explaining those restraints set by California state law, the Police Officer’s Bill of Rights and La Mesa being a charter city.

The town hall may help people air their grievances, make recommendations and ask questions, it is unclear how much information will be available.

“Although the council can’t give very much information right now because we’re still gathering it, we can still listen to the concerns and recommendations of our residents,” Weber said.

The investigation Vasquez promised into Furcron’s injury and the events on May 30 should be over, but how much of that investigation, including the name of the officer who shot Furcron, will be made public is unknown. Some public commenters asked Vasquez to not hide behind investigations so the town hall can bring answers to the community, not just empty statements.

—Reach contributing editor Kendra Sitton at Kendra@sdnews.com.

‘Lady of the Lake’ to be honored with tree planting

By JEFF CLEMETSON | La Mesa Courier

La Mesa resident Gloria Ann “Lori” Ciprian was a nature lover who enjoyed her daily walks around Lake Murray, often stopping to feed the geese that she befriended over the years.

When Ciprian died on June 15 after a yearlong battle with cancer, her human friends knew that the best way to honor her life would be some kind of memorial at Lake Murray. After making inquiries to Mission Trails Regional Park and the San Carlos Recreation Center, it was determined that a tree planted near the baseball fields adjacent to the lake would be the most viable option.

In a matter of days, Ciprian’s boyfriend Anthony Bailey and best friend Anna Falco were able to raise the $350 for the tree through donations from friends and family. The tree is expected to be planted sometime in the next three months.

Ciprian was born in Loraine, Ohio and moved to San Diego in 1984. She attended UCSD on a scholarship where she studied theater.

When the San Diego Convention Center first opened, she worked as a hostess on the first San Diego Spirit Team — chosen out of a group of 2,400 applicants for the position.

For over 20 years, she worked as an usher at Humphrey's By The

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

3

Why Homeowners Leave Thousands Behind When Selling Their Homes La Mesa – A new report has just been released which reveals 7 costly mistakes that most homeowners make when selling their home, and a 9 Step System that can help you sell your home fast and the most amount of money.

This industry report shows clearly how the traditional ways of selling homes have become increasingly less and less effective in today’s market. The fact of this matter is that fully three quarters of homesellers don’t get what they want for their homes and become disillusioned and worse financially disadvantaged when they put their homes on the market.

As this report uncovers, most homesellers make 7 deadly mistakes that cost them literally thousands of dollars. The good news is that each and every one of these mistakes is entirely preventable. In answer to this issue, industry insiders have prepared a free special report entitles “The 9 Step System to Get your Home Sold Fast and For Top Dollar”. To order your FREE copy of this report, call toll-free 1-800-270-1494 and enter 1000. You can call anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Get your free special report Now to find out how you can get the most money for your home.

Courtesy of Dan Smith eXp Realty BRE 01346593

Learn more about MesaView Senior Assisted and Independent Living!

Located in Downtown La Mesa, MesaView Senior Assisted Living offers Assisted Living, and Memory Care with a separate Independent Living community next door. Completely remodeled and updated, MesaView’s quaint and inviting feel is met with extensive outdoor space and gardens, as well as newly designed living spaces. MesaView promotes the physical, social, and spiritual aspects of its resident’s lives, embracing all people equally and celebrating our unique backgrounds and experiences.

The well-trained and compassionate staff offer individualized care and support services to the residents. A short walk to local stores, restaurants, and coffee shops, MesaView offers a neighboring independent living community with options for those who are able to live on their own but want to live in a community setting or prefer a living situation that includes housekeeping, laundry, reminders, and access to staff around the clock.

Schedule a tour to learn more about MesaView Senior Assisted and Independent Living!

619-466-0253 • 7908 La Mesa Blvd. La Mesa, Ca 91942

Senior Apartments in the Heart of La Mesa

Lori Ciprian on one of her regular walks around Lake Murray (Courtesy photo)

Bay Concert Series. She wrote numerous articles for the San Diego Reader and small papers.

“Lori loved life and Lake Murray and could be seen at the lake daily,” commented Bailey in a brief obituary he wrote for his girlfriend. “She skated, jogged and walked the lake talking to friends. She loved the birds and animals at the lake and took care

of the injured ones. We will all miss our beautiful ‘Lady of the Lake.’”

Falco has invited members of the community who knew Ciprian to share stories or well wishes about her by sending them by email to anaafalco@cox.net.

—Reach editor Jeff Clemetson at jeff@sdnews.com.

Offering senior (55+) Independent Living services in single level cottage style apartments around a secure courtyard in downtown La Mesa.

Offering: meals, laundry, housekeeping, medication reminders, access to transportation and social activities, activity room and patio, all apartments fully renovated including walk in showers, kitchens & access to awake staff 24/7.

Call Today! Limited Availability!

6 1 9 - 4 6 6 - 0 2 5 3 • 7 9 0 8 La M e s a B l v d . La M e s a , C a 9 1 9 4 2

4

NEWS

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

Space radio CONTINUED FROM Page 1

group called ARISS — Amateur Radio on the International Space Station. We arrange for students at schools to be able to talk to the astronauts on the International Space Station using ham radio.

They get to ask questions and get answers from the astronauts.”

When Banke joined ARISS, it was just a handful of people.

Today the program is international, serving students all over the world. Once a school signs up for the program, it is typically a one-to-two-year wait before an ARISS representative comes and hosts an event. Banke said over the years he has personally brought the ARISS radio to 26 schools around Southern California including Parkway Middle School in La Mesa in 1994 — the first year of the program.

Because of his involvement with ARISS, Banke was asked

by NASA to help out with another project — updating the ham radio aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

“It was aging and acting up, as electronics do after some period of time,” he said. “So we started a project to replace it with more advanced and newer equipment.”

In 2015 NASA began the project and the JVC Kenwood company volunteered to build new ham radios for the ISS. “But they have very special power requirements,” Banke said. “The space station is powered by a large solar panel array,

so it’s not just your standard AC house power. What I got involved with was building a special power supply that converts the space station power to the levels that are required by our ham radio equipment.

“When we started out, we thought this would be a reasonably straightforward project,” he continued. “But it turns out doing something that is connected to power on the International Space Station, there’s a lot of safety concerns and there’s lot of hoops you have to go through and paperwork to satisfy NASA that it’s going to be safe both for the crew and the space station itself.”

Banke developed the equipment — called a multi-voltage power supply — in his garage and took prototypes to Houston for five weeks of testing.

“We didn’t pass the first tests all the time, either,” he said. “I had to go back a second time and prove that we made all the necessary modifications and corrections.”

Banke was successful in his creation and the first unit went up to the ISS on March 6, launched on Space X 20.

Banke is also building another unit for a ham radio for Russian astronauts who also have a ham radio program.

“So as soon as this COVID settles down and we can take this unit to Russia, they’re going to send one up for their crew to use as well,” Banke said.

In the meantime, Banke is still keeping busy with ham radios hosting Zoom meetings

News briefs CONTINUED FROM Page 1

La Mesa Courier that she will seek a third term on the City Council.

Official launches of races for La Mesa City Council have traditionally begun after the filing period ends and more candidates may file papers before the end of the month.

SCAM ALERT IN LA MESA

Students participating in an ARISS event (Courtesy ariss.org)

of the San Diego Microwave Group — a group of ham radio enthusiasts which has met at his home once a month (and now temporarily online) for over 22 years now.

“It’s really a technical group,” he said. “We’re not so interested in just communicating with each other, but we’re more Banke at the Space X 20 lanch on March 6 (Photo interested in the courtesy Kerry Banke) technical aspect of it — developing our own equip- [Hurricane] Katrina and such, ment and testing it and such.” if we lose the cell phone infraBanke described the group as structure, it can be gone for aging because as more technol- quite some period of time whereogies have developed over the as ham radio operators mostly years, young geeks become more know how to resurrect their sysinterested in what’s new. tem after a disaster like that. It “When I got my first ham ra- is usually just a matter of hours dio license in 1961, long distance that they can start communicattelephone calls were ing again.” kind of expensive, and if It is that safety that makes you wanted to have fun ham radios an important part of being able to talk around the ISS. “Our system has been used as the world, really ham radio was kind of magic at backup a couple of times over that point,” Banke said, the last 20 years and that’s why adding that even today we get support from the NASA ham radios play an im- communications department, portant role among ad- because they use us a secondary vanced communications backup,” Banke said. technologies.

For information on the San “Ham radio still has Diego Microwave Group, email its part to play both from Kerry Banke at kbanke@sbctechnological advance- global.net.

For information about ARISS, ment, but also from a safety standpoint,” he visit ariss.org. said. “The thing about A meeting of the San Diego Microwave Group at Banke's La Mesa home (Photo courtesy ham radio operators is, —Reach editor Jeff Clemetson at Kerry Banke) during a disaster like jeff@sdnews.com.

Weddings Special Occasions Coporate Events Senior Living Short Notice Events

Call me about doing a COVID Safe Block Party

A spike in scammers pretending to be from San Diego nonprofit Second Chance has caused alarm.

While San Diego Second Chance does not employ door-to-door solicitors, unscrupulous imposters are asking for donations under their name.

Maureen Polimadei, the Donor & Volunteer Engagement Manager at Second Chance Program, has heard about this issue from dubious community members.

“Unfortunately, this is not the first example of fraudulent fundraising in San Diego,” she said in a press release.

Examples of reporters include solicitors knocking on doors, telling a story about how Second Chance helped them turn their life around and now they are helping Second Chance by asking for donations to support the programs. In other examples, these solicitors are trying to sell something, such as candy or magazine subscriptions.

Fake solicitors often present a badge or other documents that look real, but in this digital age, anyone can put together a sophisticated package. Polimadei recommends that anyone who has written a check to a door-todoor solicitor claiming to be from Second Chance put a stop payment on the check.

The Sa n D iego Pol ic e Department posted the following advice on NextDoor.com: “All persons working as interviewers, solicitors, peddlers or vendors of merchandise, services, magazines, etc. are required to obtain a Police Registration Card. When operating, the card must be displayed on the front of their person…(San Diego Municipal Code 33.1402).

This card is white in color, has a photo, tracking number, and identifying information along with official City of San Diego background/seal.”

Recent reports have located scammers in La Mesa, Carmel Valley, North Park, Solana Beach, and La Jolla.

LA MESA DISASTER RECOVERY FUND CHECKS DELIVERED In the first week of July, representatives of the San Diego East County Chamber of Commerce and Chamber Foundation, La Mesa Chamber of Commerce, East County Economic Development Council, and several major donors distributed the first 27 checks from the La Mesa Disaster SEE NEWS BRIEFS, Page 5

NEWS

sdnews.com

News briefs CONTINUED FROM Page 4

Recovery Fund to businesses damaged during civil unrest overnight on Saturday, May 30, and Sunday, May 31.

E a s t C ou nt y Cha m b e r Foundation Board Chairman Patrick Howard said the group remained focused from the start on a single priority.

“We worked thoughtfully to make the process as easy and as fast as possible. We were overwhelmed by the support for these La Mesa business owners,” he said.

“We made a promise to be fast, fair, and equitable, and we have delivered thanks to an exceptional East County partnership.”

La Mesa businesses receiving checks in Phase I registered and verified they had suffered physical damage or looting as a direct result of the activities of individuals.

GoFundMe transferred the current funding less its fees to the Foundation on June 25. Checks were immediately processed for distribution on Monday, June 29.

Twenty-seven checks each made out for $5,000 were distributed that week. The remainder of the fund will be held for additional relief applications.

Additional donations will be distributed to eligible businesses in Phase 2 when GoFundMe releases all remaining money the week of July 27, with the intention of closing the fund by the end of July. As many as 50 businesses are believed to have suffered property damage or losses due to looting.

The La Mesa Disaster Recovery Fund was created using a GoFundMe page by the East County Chamber of Commerce Foundation to help businesses damaged or destroyed in the aftermath of opportunistic violence and looting following peaceful Black Lives Matter demonstrations in La Mesa on May 30. The fund reached $50,000 in a single day, and $100,000 by the second day. With additional corporate donations, the fund total has reached more than $240,000.

For more information, visit eastcountychamber.org.

HERRICK LIBRARY OPENS WITH CURBSIDE PICKUP Residents of the Grossmont Healthcare District can once again access the consumer health information collection at the Herrick Community Health Care Library, which reopened with curbside pickup service on June 30.

The news comes more than three months after the library’s closure in mid-March due to state and county restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Curbside services allow patrons to borrow from the library collection of books, DVDs, magazines, and pamphlets, all of which have a health focus.

“We curate resources that are designed to help people of all ages and backgrounds gain more understanding of their health, especially

since time spent with healthcare providers can be limited,” said library director Rachelle Kierulff.

“Making the library collection accessible in this way puts health and wellness information, personal stories and entertainment back in the community’s hands.”

Kierulff said the continued reopening of library spaces and services will follow state and county health orders and guidelines.

Since its initial closure in March, library staff have been, and continue to be, available by phone and email to answer questions.

Herrick Library is located at 9001 Wakarusa St. in La Mesa.

Curbside pickup reservation instructions, pickup hours, and safety information is available at www.herricklibrary.org.

La Mesa Courier

wastewater solution and projected to have significant regional benefits. The program will be one of the first potable reuse projects in the State of California to use the new Reservoir Augmentation regulations. The program will provide up to 30 percent of East County’s drinking water demands — almost 13,000 acre-feet of water

and eliminate the discharge of 15 million gallons of partially treated wastewater into the Pacific Ocean.

The program uses four advanced water purification steps to produce water that is near-distilled in quality. After treatment, the purified water will be blended with water in Lake Jennings and treated again at the R.M. Levy

Water Treatment Plant before being distributed as drinking water.

The East County AWP Program has successfully competed for more than $200 million in low interest loans and grants from the State of California and is committed to meeting operational start SEE NEWS BRIEFS, Page 17

THERESA’S AUTHENTIC ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE

Enjoy fine dining on our spacious outdoor patio!

From homemade pasta dishes to prime-cut steaks, transport your senses to Italy with recipes by Executive Chef Brian Freerksen.

Join us for Outdoor Patio Sunset Specials running from 5pm-8pm. We are also open for breakfast and lunch. You will enjoy the most beautiful plaza views in Mission Valley with plenty of parking. Safe, clean, and responsible dining.

WATER PURIFICATION PROGRAM RECEIVES $86 MILLIONS The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California’s (MWD) board of directors recently approved the East County Advanced Water Purification Program for its Local Resources Program (LRP), providing approximately $86 million in funding for this important water supply project.

“MWD’s Local Resources Program is absolutely essential to the success of the East County AWP Program. The MWD Board’s approval is a crucial piece to making this important water supply project a reality for East County and we thank the board for their continued commitment to the LRP program and local supply development,” remarked Allen Carlisle, East County AWP Joint Powers Authority (JPA) Program Administrator and Padre Dam Municipal Water District CEO/ General Manager.

The East Cou nt y AW P Program is a regional water and

5

N OP OW DA EN IL Y

CITY OKS OUTDOOR DINING

BY EXECUTIVE ORDER The City of La Mesa issued an executive order on July 9, which temporarily allows the use of public and private outdoor areas by eating establishments for dining, provided those establishments obtain written authorization from the Director of Community Development and comply with all social distancing and other COVID-19 related health orders and all other city, county (e.g., emergency orders), ctate (e.g., Alcoholic Beverage Control) and federal laws (e.g., Americans with Disabilities Act). This executive order was issued following state a mandate to suspend indoor dining for San Diego County due to rising COVID-19 cases that went into effect July 6.

There is no city fee charged or permit required for businesses that receive authorization to use public and private outdoor areas for dining. Businesses interested in obtaining written authorization for temporary use of public and private outdoor areas should contact Allyson Kinnard, Senior Planner at akinnard@cityoflamesa.us.

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

Signature cocktail menu & wine collection!

Bring in this ad to receive a 15% discount off your food order.* *Excludes beverages. Expires 8/31.

Discover San Diego’s newest treasure!

CALL 1 (619) 782-9182 FOR RESERVATIONS 875 HOTEL CIRCLE SOUTH • SAN DIEGO • LEGACYRESORTANDSPA.COM 32372

6

OPINION

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

Guest Editorials

An outsider’s perspective on race in America 1621 Grand Ave., Suite C San Diego, CA 92109 (858) 270-3103 LaMesaCourier.com Twitter: @LaMesaCourier EDITOR

CONTRIBUTORS

Jeff Clemetson x130 jeff@sdnews.com

Connie Baer Lynn Baer Pat Boerner Chelsie Harris Dianne Jacob Benjamin Kettor Linda Michael Jennifer Osborn Sean Quintal Dr. Donald Rebhum Frank Sabatini Jr. Genevieve Suzuki Julie White

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Kendra Sitton x136 Tom Melville x131 Dave Schwab x132

EDITORIAL INTERN Makena Huey

WEB & SOCIAL MEDIA Jeff Clemetson

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT Heather Fine x 118

PRODUCTION MANAGER Chris Baker x107 chris@sdnews.com

BUSINESS CONSULTANT David Mannis

ACCOUNTING

PUBLISHER

Heather Humble x120 accounting@sdnews.com

Julie Main, x106 julie@sdnews.com

OPINIONS/LETTERS: La Mesa Courier encourages letters to the editor and guest editorials. Please email submissions to jeff@sdnews.com and include your phone number and address for verification. We reserve the right to edit letters for brevity and accuracy. Letters and guest editorials do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or staff.

SUBMISSIONS/NEWS TIPS: Send press releases, tips, photos or story ideas to jeff@sdnews.com.

For breaking news and investigative story ideas contact the editor by phone or email.

DISTRIBUTION: La Mesa Courier is distributed free the fourth Friday of every month.

COPYRIGHT 2020. All rights reserved.

LA JOLLA

By BENJAMIN KETTOR

In the midst of the racial tensions in America, there are so many untold stories being revealed. Some people have made a blanket statement against the police officers. Others have generalized the belief that the whites are against the blacks. As an African man living in America, let me share with you one of my memorable experiences. Life in America as an international student is challenging to say the least.

It all started back in 2007, in Upstate New York, in pursuit of higher education. When it was time for the Christmas vacation that year, I needed a place to stay during the break. The dorms were going to be closed and no one was allowed to remain on campus. Having no other place to stay, I began to wonder on

what will become of me after the campus is closed.

To my surprise, I was introduced to an American family that I did not have any personal connection with at the time.

Little did I also know that another family had agreed to host me for few days earlier. For the first time, I was introduced to my soon to be host outside of the dormitory and eventually their two loving children among other family members. They happily took me as their son and I will never forget their generosity.

When I had no place to go, they took me in and since then we’ve become family. Still to this day, the same bedroom I was lodged in for the first time since 2007 is always available for me in their house.

Today, I call them “Mom and Dad” (Shelly and Ken Wilcox).

Their children are my brother

and sister (Mike and Rachel).

Their parents are my grandparents. I’m eternally grateful to this family for hosting a stranger like me. Oh guess what? They are white folks. They did not care whether I was a black person or not. Ken even travelled with me back to my home country Liberia on three separate occasions and continues to do humanitarian services together up to this date.

It is worth noting though that racial disparity in America has been from the time this nation was founded. It has been part of the American culture. The recent tipping point is evidence of many unpleasant stories still untold. The George Floyd killing was an awful act in broad daylight that no sensible person will support.

I say all this to say that even in the midst of all the racial tensions in America, let us not

Stay on top of your health

By DR. DONALD REBHUN

Let’s face it: even before the current pandemic, many of us had apprehension about going to the doctor for check-ups and routine care. As a practicing internist with many years of experience helping people live healthier lives, I’ve certainly seen my share of patients who are nervous going to the doctor.

Now, with health authorities and physicians asking people to socially distance and avoid crowded public spaces, the thought of going to a doctor’s office and sitting in the waiting room brings an added dimension of anxiety. That’s why physicians, like myself, have adapted new technology to provide care and make in-person visits safe.

The fact is routine care shouldn’t be put on the backburner. It’s vitally important for people, especially those with chronic conditions, to stay on top of their health. A recent survey of primary care physicians revealed a troubling statistic: the majority of physicians surveyed believe that delayed care due to COVID-19 could result in serious and sometimes fatal outcomes.

This is especially true for the six out of ten adults with chronic conditions.

These patients face serious risks if their conditions aren’t managed appropriately. For example, diabetes affects nearly 34 million people in the U.S. and diabetic patients can take

preventive measures to avoid severe complications such as nerve damage, heart disease and kidney disease. Simply keeping blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels in check, and having regular checkups with a doctor, can help reduce their risk.

There’s also growing concern for children. The World Health Organization says that over 80 million children under one year old are at increased risk of diseases such as polio, measles, and diphtheria due to COVID-19 delays of vaccinations. An Optum study also examined data from providers and health systems looking at over 117,000 children who received the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine in the first four months of both 2019 and 2020. It found a 43 percent drop this year. We can’t overstate the importance of parents keeping on top of their children’s vaccine schedules to help keep them protected against preventable diseases.

So, how do we stay on top of our health while keeping safe from COVID-19?

The most important thing you can do is call your doctor and ask for guidance.

Your doctor may suggest a remote visit. Many have rolled out private, secure video chat and phone visit technology within the last few months. While a physician can’t draw blood or listen to your heart and lungs remotely, sometimes

they can diagnose a condition based solely on your description of symptoms.

They can also help determine whether you should come in for an in-person visit or if your symptoms suggest you should be seen in an urgent care or emergency room. For those at higher risk during COVID-19, being able to see your primary care doctor from the comfort and safety of your own home can be extraordinarily helpful.

When you do need to go to the office, many doctors have put effective new safeguards and procedures in place for in-person visits.

These include limiting the number of people in the clinic, screening visitors for symptoms and encouraging hand hygiene and the use of masks, among other steps. Patients should take comfort in knowing their doctors and clinical staff are taking the necessary steps to avoid spreading the virus.

We’re all feeling the fear and anxiety caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, but that shouldn’t cause us to put something as important as our own health on the backburner. The consequences are too severe.

Physicians, like myself, want to remind our patients that we are here to be your partner in maintaining good health. So take care of yourself and give us a call.

—Dr. Donald Rebhun is Regional Medical Director for Optum in California.

loose sight of the many good folks out there who are against the injustices that people of color continue to experience over the years. We all need to join forces together to overcome the challenge. When something goes wrong, point out the doer of the act rather than generalizing an entire race of people.

May God take us through these difficult times and fill us with love for our fellow human beings. Black, White, Brown, etc, we all bleed the same blood.

We were all made in the image of God. —Benjamin Kettor is a Liberian native who recently helped La Mesa Sunrise Rotary bring 70,000 books to his home country. To read more about Kettor, read the La Mesa Courier article “Many grains of Sand” by Joyell Nevins at bit.ly/39fnCdc.

Letters RIOT COVERAGE

Re: “Rioting, rebuilding, reforming” [Volume 10, Issue 6, or bit.ly/3hsl0M8] I just want to thank you for the article you wrote in the La Mesa Courier regarding the protests and riots. It was articulate, thorough and objective. The interview with Sara Jacobs was likewise well written and gave us good background on her. Thank you.

—Diana Wright, La Mesa After reading your article, there were many critical items missing, and I am curious if this was intentional, to support the BLM Socialist movement, or you do not have access to this information. I am a retired electronic engineer, ham radio operator, scanner owner and somehow I have more damning information that was omitted from your article.

The officer never singled out the citizen because of his color. He was approached for smoking in a non-smoking area! Is it your position, if a Black citizen intentionally breaks the law, should he never be approached by [law enforcement]?

The first Axon video of the confrontation discussed the citizen “smacking” the officer, and at two minutes in, the citizen confessed.

The cop stated, “you smacked me” and the citizen responded, “well OK,” then changed the topic.

The citizen screamed obscenities, demanding sex from the officer, and appears to be tripping out on drugs, swearing at the top of his lungs for the camera. Is this the behavior you are encouraging at a trolley station for our grand kids, and accepted treatment of a stranger, let alone a cop?

During the protest, the LMPD building and Sheriff officers were almost continuously defending against thrown rocks, bricks and bottles, for a very long time! You failed to comment on the Bearcat being tagged and taking huge rocks thrown at it, with officers inside!

LMPD declared it an unlawful assembly, yet nobody budged. Then a protester SEE LETTERS, Page 14

POLITICS sdnews.com Trump’s motto is ‘E Pluribus Ego’

By SEAN QUINTAL

In 1782, a newly formed country, acting through its nascent legislative body, adopted a Latin phrase to be emblazoned on its currency: E pluribus unum, in English, “out of many, one.”

The Founders of this new nation selected the motto as it represented a unified nation that had emerged from a previous collection of 13 colonies.

In the 244 years since, that nation has grown to a population of more than 330 million, a heterogeneous collection of people from continents around the globe, many of whom look, speak and worship differently from the those who forged the country, and many of whom arrived here in chains. The nation burgeoned precisely because it represented ideals that are reflected in that Latin aphorism: We Americans are many, we are different, but finally, we are one.

That fundamental American aspiration has been tested and tried, through blood and suffering, through literal armed conflict. America has faced moments that threaten disunity and disintegration. In our most proud moments, America and its leaders have found the will and strength to manifest our ideals of unity and solidarity, and by doing so have preserved not just the nation, but its values too.

America today is again living

through one of those moments.

And while the American people have once again found common cause, our President, tragically, has not.

Today, America faces multiple historical challenges simultaneously: a public health crisis and an economic crisis without precedent for at least a century, as well as public expression of rage at racial and social inequalities unlike anything in half a century. Despite many Americans literally marching in the streets for unity, America has a President who governs exactly as he campaigned — a belligerent incarnation of grievance, resentment and division.

In so many ways, Donald Trump has used the U.S. Presidency, not as an institution that exists for the betterment of the country’s citizenry, but rather as a catalyst for self-interest and self-aggrandizement. His cabinet and administration have functioned not to serve the public, or even his voters, but instead his own psychological needs and, of course, the business interests of himself, his family and his friends.

Trump governs for “his” people, the “real” America. In fact, Trump sees the “United” States as a problem to be campaigned against.

If we were to mark our currency with a motto for the Trump presidency, it would read: E pluribus ego. Out of many, for me.

America endures with something pure at its core. Reach down deep enough in America

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

7

Republican Women focusing on history and future

By PAT BOERNER

As we have just concluded our nation’s celebration of independence, it is a perfect time to remember the sacrifices of those who founded this great nation, and those who have fought to preserve it. While this year has presented challenges, we are rising to the occasion and remain committed to the very essence of America — freedom. Never let a day go by that we don’t appreciate what our Founding Fathers gave to us and that it is our responsibility to preserve and protect that freedom and our Constitution.

Navajo Canyon Republican Women of California has the largest membership of all the clubs in San Diego County. Although our meeting schedule has been affected by COVID-19 and the social distancing requirements, we continue to be an effective force for the Republican Party.

Our members are becoming educated, writing letters, making phone calls, and financially supporting candidates in the upcoming November election. We look forward to getting the go-ahead to walk precincts and have conversations with our neighbors about important issues on the ballot.

Voter turnout is the number one issue for Republicans winning elections. Meanwhile, we

Sean Quintal

— past slavery and racism, through genocide and exploitation, between patriarchy and oppression — and you’ll find generosity, community and solidarity.

It becomes visible in the heroic acts of our people, and is sometimes marked by the leadership of our presidents.

George Washington’s resignation as Commander in Chief emphasized the power of Congress, affirming that in this country there would be no king, and that power would reside with the people’s representatives. Lincoln, and Grant after him, endured enormous consequences for courageously fighting to implement a meaningful, inclusive and just Reconstruction of a cleaved union. FDR resisted pressures from both left and right to weld together a riven country, and in doing so, not only defeated fascism abroad, but also saved capitalism at home. Lyndon Johnson, a longtime segregationist, signed the Civil Rights Act, even as he acknowledged it would cost the Democratic Party the South.

SEE LMFDC, Page 13

are staying in touch with each other via Zoom meetings and conference calls. This is the perfect time to become a member of Navajo Canyon and be kept in the loop of important election information and becoming an active volunteer.

When we say that this is the most important election in our lifetime, it is not an overstatement. The extraordinary economy we were experiencing prior to COVID-19 is beginning to come back. We are seeing positive economic indicators including the decrease in unemployment even beyond what was projected.

As we take individual responsibility for wearing masks and social distancing we will continue to reopen safely across the country and get back to business and life as before the epidemic. The only way to return to that record breaking economy is to re-elect President Trump and let him continue the policies that turned this country around and stopped the downhill spiraling. Biden simply does not have the business experience, the stamina or the foresight to guide America through this challenging time.

SAVE THE DATE

Tuesday, Oct. 13 is the scheduled date of our annual Fashion Show at Bali Hai in San Diego. We look forward to a delicious lunch and seeing our members model SEE RWCNC, Page 8

SUPPORT LOCAL Amber McWhirter-Griffith 8911 La Mesa Blvd 619.463.7320 amber@farmerssandiego.net We are family owned and operated business in La Mesa since the early 90’s. Farmers offers a product to fit your needs for auto, home, life and business insurance. We strive to provide the quick, efficient and superior customer service that you deserve! Give us a call; we’re here to help.

Passport Photo & Renewals • Shredding Temporary Hours Mon-Fri 10am-5pm Sat 9:30am-2pm

Get your Best Sleep Guaranteed Family owned since 1968 | Locally Made and Handcrafted | Natural Materials No Harmful Chemicals

Tax free Savings! Pay no sales tax for a limited time

�an� Yo� L� Mes� For Your Suppor�!

$5.00 OFF Any Purchase of $15.00 or More!

Free mattress protector with mattress purchase Voted #1 mattress store in La Mesa 2 years in a row!

Our new Temporary Hours Tuesday-Saturday 11am to 6pm

619.303.9505 | 8366 La Mesa Blvd. La Mesa, Ca 91942 | www.MattressMakers.com

8

NEWS / POLITICS News from your County Supervisor

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

Daycare CONTINUED FROM Page 2

Dianne’s Corner

of the pandemic is that they now feel more valued and respected.

“A lot of times, this is a very thankless job, but through this, we have seen how much the parents really do appreciate us,” Carpenter said.

Thirteen percent of working parents have reported losing a job or reducing hours as a direct result of a lack of childcare, according to the KPBS story. Grey said she has seen a lot of social media posts from parents who are now at home with their children and realizing how much work is involved in being a teacher.

“This is what we do, this is who we are, so I definitely appreciate that COVID has brought to light the things that we do,” Grey said. “We’re not just babysitters, we are educators, and this whole thing has proved it.”

By DIANNE JACOB Wildfire warning: In light of COVID-19, the county, Cal Fire, the Red Cross and others are revamping evacuation plans and other emergency protocols to bolster public safety during a major firestorm.

Residents under evacuation orders this year could be housed in a hotel or motel, or at multiple shelters with fewer than 50 people instead of a larger traditional shelter. The Red Cross is working with nearly 100 lodging businesses across the county to make rooms available in a crisis, and they have identified over 200 shelter locations to provide these safer options.

We’re entering the riskiest part of the wildfire season while still being in the middle of an unprecedented health crisis.

—Makena Huey is a senior at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, pursuing a major in English and minor in journalism.

The San Diego native was the editor-in-chief of Currents magazine and is currently the managing editor of the Graphic newspaper.

That is forcing us to rethink and retool our disaster-planning efforts.

Small business alert: Applications are still being accepted for the county’s COVID-19 stimulus grant program.

The Board of Supervisors recently voted to establish the $17 million fund, setting aside $3.4 million for private for-profit and non-profit businesses in East County.

Many of our retail shops, restaurants and other businesses are in dire financial straits and need a financial lifeline. The grants will offer relief as we continue battle the virus and work to get our economy on track.

To apply, start here: sandiegocounty.gov/stimulusgrant/.

The application deadline is August 15.

Helping seniors: At my urging, the county is moving to expand meal deliveries from local

RWCNC CONTINUED FROM Page 7

restaurants to seniors and other vulnerable populations.

The Board of Supervisors has agreed to tap into federal CARES Act money to ramp up the deliveries. In recent months, the county has been offering the meals through a program called Great Plates.

These deliveries are not only critical for seniors but are another way we can support restaurants that may be struggling for survival.

In the Zone: Just a reminder that the county’s Cool Zone program is up and running again, but on a limited basis due to COVID-19. For the latest locations and hours, visit CoolZones.org.

the beautiful fashions from Glamour Girlz in El Cajon.

Bali Hai offers us a large outdoor seating area but due to the current circumstances this is definitely on the “wait and see” plan. If we are able to keep this date it will indeed be a celebration!

Please check and see the latest updates on our website at rwcNavajo-Canyon.org and visit us on Facebook at Republican Women of CaliforniaNavajo Canyon. For more information on our activities or about joining Navajo Canyon now, please contact Waskah at waskahwhelan@aol.com.

—Dianne Jacob represents District 2 on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors. For questions or comments about your county government, call 619- 531-5522 or email dianne.jacob@sdcounty. ca.gov.

—Pat Boerner writes on behalf of the Navajo Canyon Republican Women of California.

Patio Is Open!

You should be connecting with customers within a 5 mile radius of your location!

Now Offering Anesthesia Free Dental Cleaning!

We Have New Inventory!

Our Newest Treat For Your Pet "Doggie Meatballs" Thank You La Mesa For Your Support!

LA MESA

Thursday-Saturday 3PM-8PM Sunday 12PM-5PM

“Family owned and Operated for 25 years”

Basic Oil $ 1999 Change

Install oil and filter, Add up to 5 qts, Bulk, 10w30 or 5w3. Free 4 tire rotation* Exp. 8-27-20

2019

WE SERVICE CLASSIC CARS! WE DO ALL SCHEDULED SERVICES ON ALL MAKES AND MODELS  Oil Change  Brakes & Shocks, Struts  Alternators, Starters, AC Service  Transmission Service & Coolants

COMPLETE AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES

Give Us a Call (619) 667-6767 7589 El Cajon Blvd La Mesa, CA 91942

“We’re Open For Business!”

FREE Delivery Up To 5 Miles!

La Mesa Purchase A $50 Gift Card & Recieve A 6 Pack Of Local Craft Beer!

WINE & SPIRITS SPECIALIZING IN WINE SPIRITS, CRAFT BEER & MORE

8292 La Mesa Blvd. • La Mesa, 91942 Give Us A Call At 619.460.7500 New Hours During Covid 19: Mon-Wed 10am-9pm Thur-Sat 10am-10pm • Sunday 10am-9pm

Wheel Alignment

2000 OFF

$

Visual inspection of steering and suspension components. Computerized precision alignment. Set to manufacturer specifications. Adjust tire air pressure where applicable. (steering angle sensor reset extra) Exp. 8-27-20

FREE Brake Inspection

Plus $40 off Brakes Exp. 8-27-20 ($20 off per axle if work is required) Monday-Saturday 8AM – 4PM Closed Sundays Eddywoods66@gmail.com

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020 VILLAGE VOICES La Mesa Courier sdnews.com 9 Mom’s attempt at preschool teaching is half-baked

Gen-X in La Mesa

By GENEVIEVE A. SUZUKI

If there’s one thing this whole coronavirus shutdown has taught me, it’s that I have been taking people in my life for granted.

Prior to March, I thought nothing of buying bread and dropping off my son at preschool. Since the restrictions, I have learned just how hard it is to bake bread and how frustrating it is to try to really teach a 5-year-old.

In finding my new appreciation for the skills necessary to do those two things, I have come to really feel gratitude toward bakers and preschool teachers, two occupations that require a higher level of patience than I possess.

BAKING BREAD IS AS HARD AS MY SOURDOUGH CRUST To be fair, I did not sign up to bake sourdough bread, even though I worried in the beginning we would suffer from a bread shortage at the stores. Initially, dear friends of mine had told me they were going to share a loaf with me. Free bread? Sign me up for that, I thought.

But what they shared wasn’t just the loaf, but a jar of starter

and a how-to-bake-bread book.

“So you can do it, too,” they said.

So I could do it, too. Little did I know I would be feeding this starter – it’s a lot like feeding the plant in “Little Shop of Horrors” – on a nightly basis. My nighttime routine consisted of feeding the cat and then the jar of starter for the eventual bake.

By the time I got the gumption to finally bake the bread, I also acquired a Dutch oven and flour sack dish towels. My husband, Derek, eyed me warily. He had been watching me collect the various supplies with skepticism.

I couldn’t blame him. Prior to this, my cooking was limited to boxed brownies, spaghetti and lasagna.

If there were instructions on the box, I could make it.

Unlike something from a box, sourdough bread demands attention and patience. You feed the starter then wait. Then you create the loaf starter and wait. Then you mix and wait. And you wait, wait and wait some more.

Thankfully, the bread came out decent. It wasn’t as delicious as bread from Boudin, but it was more than a little edible for a few days. After the few days, however, the crust hardened enough you could use the loaf as a weapon.

The problem is I also had to make two loaves at a time.

After a few weeks of sourdough bread, my family begged me to stop baking. So I stopped, but now give a slight nod of acknowledgment to loaves at the store, knowing how much goes into creating that bready goodness.

PRESCHOOL TEACHERS ARE ANGELS WHO WALK AMONG US I admit my hubris when I became my son Deacon’s preschool teacher in March. I believed it would be easy. I like crafts enough, know my alphabet and like to sing and dance. Plus I love the little guy, which should make it that much easier, right?

Totally wrong. By the second week, I was pleading with the dude to nap as he insisted on watching kids’ TV with wide eyes. He rejected writing practice and mocked my attempts to have him color. And I realized I did not like to clean up after craft time so I hid the glue and the child-proof scissors.

Every day for almost three months it was the same thing, too.

We ate breakfast then we argued over whether he would do something educational. After lunch, we would argue again over whether

Many Americans, including Genevieve Suzuki, turned to baking their own sourdough bread during the Coronavirus pandemic.

the TV needed to be on for him to nap – I discovered at this point my son is amazingly strong willed as he literally laid next to me for an hour without sleeping while I passed out somewhere in the middle of it. After the nap, we would then do some light reading, which eventually denigrated into “Hey, look, Cartoon Network is on.”

I miss Deacon’s preschool teachers at St. Martin of Tours. They’re made of sugar, cinnamon and everything nice. They never told me my mini-monster was incorrigible nor did they complain about his weird obsession with Belarus. Every weekday he was there, he napped,

Providing Safe and Secure Remote Services To Our Clients • • • • • • •

Virus Removal & Recovery Laptop & Desktop Repair Home Network Set-Up & Service PC Tuneups & Upgrades Internet Security On-Site Training Project Assistance

Senior and Veteran Discounts!

EXPERT REPAIRS • HOME, OFFICE & REMOTE SUPPORT • EXCELLENT SERVICE

We are here to provide a good customer service and good solution of CBD Products, Water Pipes, Vapes, Hookah Tobacco & More!

Open MondaySaturday 9AM-8PM Sunday 11AM-8PM

619-303-7888

7242 University Ave La Mesa

Homeschooling a toddler can be fun if you have puzzles, games and patience. (Courtesy photos)

learned and came home with a craft to display. I guess I could blame them for making it seem so easy someone like me thought I could do just as good a job.

Whenever that vaccine and treatment are developed, and we return to normal life, there are at least two groups of people in my neighborhood who have a devoted fan in their corner. Anyone who has the patience to bake bread or teach toddlers deserves all the love in the world.

—Genevieve A. Suzuki is a local family law attorney and a former editor of the La Mesa Courier.

REMODELING • Bath & KItchen Remodeling • Plumbing Repairs & Installations • Heating and A/C Repair & Installations

Finally e A Positiv r Computece!

Experien

Call Mike!

(619) 784-6045

K I T C H E N & B AT H S H O W R O O M

F R E E E S T I M AT E S

619-463-1600 • 8348 Center Dr. La Mesa

10

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

sdnews.com

Dine Local Pick-up P i c k u p Look Who’s Open & Delivery Delivery For Business!

COME GET YOUR FAVORITE DRINK!

WE’RE OPEN FOR PICKUP & BREWING FRESH LOCAL COFFEE

10% OFF

YOUR ORDER WITH THIS COUPON Offer cannot be combined with any other discounts. Expires 08/31/20

WWW.BREWCOFFEESPOT.COM

6101 LAKE MURRAY BLVD. LA MESA, CA 91942

Were Open For Take Out!

"A Taste Of Something Extraordinary!"

Banana • French Vanilla Chocolate • Pistachio Cheesecake • Lemon Coconut • Red Velvet Butterscotch Chocolate Banana & White Chocolate

Happy Hour Every Day From 4pm-6pm $2 OFF Any Size

619-642-6274 8257 El Paso St. La Mesa

Thank You La Mesa For Your Support!

"We're OPEN for Dine In & Take Out" 2019

Hours: Monday .Tuesday .Wednesday 11AM-9PM Thursday. Friday 11AM-10PM 619-464-2465 Saturday 9:30AM-10PM 8393 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa Sunday 9:30-9PM

BUY ANY ENTREE OF YOUR CHOICE & GET THE SECOND ENTREE OF EQUAL OR LESSER PRICE

City Tacos Village Taqueria 8325 La Mesa Blvd.

619.467.7999

We're Open For Pick Up! Call or Come By To Place Your Order!

Buy Any Taco & Get

A FREE

Quesadilla

*One Quesadilla Per Order

We’re Open for Patio Dining & To Go Orders Hours Tuesday-Sunday 3PM-8:30PM

OUR PATIO IS OPEN FOR DINING!

Monday - Sunday 11AM-8PM 6950 Alvarado San Diego 619-465-1910

619-644-1010 9104 Fletcher Parkway La Mesa, CA 91942

FREE

WITH PURCHASE OF TWO DRINKS Not valid with any other special. Up to $10 value.

MUST PRESENT COUPON. Expires 8-27-20

FOOD & DRINK sdnews.com San Diego-style wingding Restaurant Review

By FRANK SABATINI JR. There’s more to Dirty Birds than chicken wings. Although a steady flap has persisted for its sauced appendages ever since the locally owned eatery debuted in Pacific Beach 11 years ago.

At the College Area location alone, which opened in 2015, the kitchen cranks out nearly 12,000 wings per week, according to regional director of training, Michael Feldman. The company’s other outposts in Liberty Station, Ocean Beach and Pacific Beach do almost as well.

With more than two dozen flatscreens, a full bar, and a lengthy menu that includes 40 flavors of wings, plus burgers, tacos and other booze-friendly grub — the El Cajon Boulevard location is a magnet for SDSU students and neighborhood residents alike.

Dirty Birds’ wings come out remarkably fast. That’s because they are pre-baked and then flash-fried to order. They’re adequately crispy, although not like those in my native Buffalo, New York, where they often cast audible crunches when biting into Dirty Birds 6499 El Cajon Blvd. (Rolando) 619-265-2086, dirtybirdsbarandgrill.com Prices: Salads and appetizers, $5.95 to $14.95; burgers and sandwiches, $11.95 to $14.95; tacos (two per order), $12.95; chicken wings, $7.95 (five pieces) to $27.95 (20 pieces)

them. But that requires a robust sizzle in the deep fryer for about 15 minutes — and patrons who are willing to wait. Here, if you want them extra-crispy, just ask.

Dropping in for lunch as a twosome at this roomy location, we ordered 15 wings. (They’re sold in multiples of five, 10 and 20).

We had them equally divided into three flavors.

The “dirty ranch” is basically Buffalo sauce toned down by ranch dressing. It’s perfect for those whose palates and sinuses feel assaulted by the classic cayenne-vinegar base of Buffalo hot sauce. We found it too safe.

My companion was drawn to the “Bangkawk BBQ” wings, which offered a deep chili f lavor and semi-spicy edge fueled likeHoney-mustard chicken salad ly by some type of mustard. A glass of cold Coronado Orange Avenue Wit from the taps proved an ideal match.

But it was the apple-bourbon-chipotle wings that stole my heart. The sauce tasted concurrently tangy, sweet and spicy — less viscous on the tongue and highly lickable off the fingers.

In visits to the other locations, I’ve gravitated mostly to traditional Buffalo wings, although I’ve sometimes added into the mix five wings coated in diablo sauce.

Vibrant red in color, it’s made with three types of chilies and tastes a notch above “medium” in heat level.

It wasn’t until this recent visit that I supplemented my wing intake with a couple of other noshes. We shared the honey-mustard chicken salad, which offered a substantial amount of romaine lettuce and modest measures of smokey bacon crumbles, shredded cheese, and grilled chicken strips. The house-made dressing gave equal play to the honey and the mustard.

The most curious item on the menu (and a top seller) is the “fried cheese cheeseburger.” Feldman said that co-owner Adam Jacoby put it on the menu as a nod to his New England roots.

Invented supposedly in Connecticut, it involves a griddled hamburger christened with a floppy square of fried cheese — in this case American

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

11

‘Bangkawk BBQ’ and apple bourbon-chipotle wings (Photos by Frank Sabatini Jr.)

cheese that is blackened on the bottom and just past melted on the top. Most of it protrudes from the bun in all directions. It’s fun, kooky and quite tasty.

Other menu items include burgers in classic, turkey and Beyond Meat form. There’s also assorted sliders, sandwiches and tacos, and a few desserts such as the “dirty delight” involving a house-made brownie capped with ice cream, fudge sauce and crushed Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

Happy hour rings in some de c ent pr ic e b r e a k s . He l d from 3 to 6 p.m. on weekdays (all day on Tuesdays), wings and select pitchers of beer are halfprice. Or for those who can The unique ‘fried cheese cheeseburger’

polish off a chicken coop’s worth of wings, Mondays herald unlimited wing consumption for $15.99 per person.

The success of Dirty Birds has allowed the ownership to give back to the community on several fronts, including sending 75 young cancer patients from Rady Children’s Hospital to Disneyland each year. In addition, proceeds from certain highlighted menu items go to organizations such as The Big Josh Foundation (bigjoshfoundation.org) and Sombfab (facebook.com/sombfab/).

—Frank Sabatini Jr. is the author of ‘Secret San Diego’ (ECW Press) and began his local writing career more than two decades ago as a staffer for the former San Diego Tribune.

You can reach him at fsabatini@san. rr.com.

CHICKEN AND RICE SALAD Now You Can Order For Pick-Up or Delivery Chicken and rice salad

• 1 small can sliced black olives,

By JULIE WHITE

Chicken and rice salad is a perfect meal for a summer night. Buying a precooked rotisserie chicken makes it very quick to make. This recipe came from an old Lemon Avenue Elementary cookbook from 1991 and was the recipe of Susie Schmit.

INGREDIENTS: • 1 box Rice a Roni almond fried rice, prepared and chilled

• 1 small can of sliced water

drained

• 2 green onions, sliced thinly • 1 red bell pepper, cut into bite sized pieces

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise • 1/4 cup slivered almonds • 1/2 of a rotisserie chicken that has been skinned and boned.

DIRECTIONS:

Chop into bite size pieces.

Mix the mayo with the drained artichoke oil. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss with remaining ingredient and chill before serving.

chestnuts, drained

• 1 small jar of marinated artichoke hearts, chopped (Drain oil from jar and reserve)

“Look for something positive in each day. Some days you"ll have to look a little harder.”

12

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

(619) 583-7963 • idealservice.com 5161 Waring Rd, San Diego CA License #348810

EDUCATION Plaques honoring great Foothiller educators

Foothiller Footsteps

By CONNIE and LYNN BAER

Mitsubishi Electric Ductless Cooling & Heating • Multi-zone system allows everyone to enjoy their ideal comfort level.

• Improves air quality, reducing dust, mold and allergens.

• Quieter than a human whisper.

• Systems are compatible with popular smart thermostats.

• Perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, bonus rooms, garages, and sunrooms.

$300 OFF *

New Mitsubishi Heating & Cooling System Installation * Present coupon at time of service. Not valid with any other offer.

Technician to verify special upon arrival. HVAC equipment must be purchased and installed by Ideal. Expires 9-30-2020. (Offer code LMC).

La Mesa's Best Mattress Store!

Natural and Organic Materials For a Safer sleep

Custom Pillows made to fit each person perfectly

8366 La Mesa Blvd.

La Mesa, Ca 91942 (619) 303-9505 MattressMakers.com

Family owned since 1968 right here in San Diego

Grossmont High School’s nearly 100 years are reflected throughout its campus. While the campus has been dramatically modernized over the past 10 years, reminders of its past include bronze plaques which celebrate remarkable teachers, whose impact on its nearly 38,000 alumni is incalculable.

Again, our thanks to the alumni, retirees, and community members whose donations have made these plaques possible.

Jack Mashin: While Jack Mashin was a legendary coach, it was his philosophy of education and of life that endeared him to all who knew him and led to the GHS Stadium being named for him.

In the 1925 El Recuerdo, Coach Mashin revealed his lifelong philosophy of coaching: “The greatest honors that athletes can bestow upon their institution are not in victories alone but in how modest they were in victory and how honorably and valiantly they fought in defeat.”

During his years at Grossmont, his athletes won seven league football championships, 34 league and tournament basketball championships, three league baseball championships, and 86 track and field event titles.

Nicknamed “The Fox of the Foothills” because of his coaching success and innovative game plans, Coach Mashin was inducted in the California Coaches Hall of Fame in 1966.

Marlin Baer: Near the Jack Mashin Stadium on the adjacent discus field is a plaque dedicating the relocated discus ring and future discus field to a beloved coach and teacher, who was hired by Jack Mashin to replace him as track coach.

From 1957-1968, for 12 seasons, Marlin Baer was the head track coach with a win loss record of 250 to 43, including five Class A (Varsity) championships, nine Class B (JV) crowns, and 11 straight C titles, with a string of 66 straight C league wins. Until his retirement and after, he continued to coach track, coaching and teaching a total of 40 years.

Ken Lehr: For 36 years, Ken Lehr taught Auto Shop, which became a refuge for students longing for a vocational approach to the high school experience. Fittingly, the new automotive technology facility is dedicated to him.

Gloria Jones: At the front of the classroom in the ASB room is a plaque honoring a remarkable

The Jack Mashin plaque reads: Beloved GHS Coach and P.E. Teacher from 1923-1960

The Audrey Seidel Myers plaque will read: GHS Black Box Dedicated to Audrey Seidel Myers GHS Drama Teacher 1965-1980 An innovative English/Drama teacher who was loved by her students.

Her passion for theater made Drama a popular elective.

Under her leadership, the Little Theatre “came to life”

teacher, who is also a member of the 2020 Hall of Honor. Upon hearing of her death in 2019, nearly 20 years after her retirement, hundreds of former students shared an outpouring of memories of their beloved teacher, a testament to her continuing impact on her students and a testament of a life well lived.

Audrey Seidel Myers: The 2020 Event Center will have a Black Box Theater, which will honor a former drama teacher who challenged her students to transform themselves, and in the process, create productions, both inspiring and insightful.

What do these five teachers have in common? A love for teaching and coaching and a commitment to supporting, guiding, and encouraging their students and their athletes to become the best people they could be.

BECOME PART OF A HISTORIC CAMPUS Today, there are several opportunities to celebrate yourself, your family, your class, or your business. One way is to contribute to our GHS Endowment Fund and become a Foothiller Friend or Founder. Your donation will be permanently commemorated with a gray tile on campus. Visit grossmont.donationtiles.com to place an online order or contact us to receive an order form by mail.

Other opportunities include donating a personalized royal blue

The Ken Lahr plaque reads: 2014 Automotive Technology Facility Dedicated to Ken Lehr, “Dr. Motor” GHS Program Innovator and Automotive Technology Teacher: 1978-2004 A Pioneer in Industrial Technology Education Favorite Quote “What is the four stroke cycle?”

The Marlin Baer plaque reads: 2014 Discus Field Dedicated to Coach Marlin Baer Teacher (GHS 1956-1983), Mentor, Friend, and Father

The Gloria Jones plaque reads: Gloria L. Jones ASB Advisor 1967-2000 A Gifted Educator and Legendary ASB Advisor Strong, compassionate, empathetic, and well-liked, she instilled in her students the importance of leadership and participating in the democratic process.

Her commitment to Foothiller pride and excellence lives today through countless alumni and current students.

bench on campus or sponsoring a decade showcase for the new GHS Museum, opening next school year. Please email or phone us for more information.

To learn more about GHS, past and present, visit the GHS Museum website at foothillermuseum.com. Due to the coronavirus, the GHS Museum is currently closed, but we are checking our emails at ghsmuseum@guhsd. net and our phone messages at 619-668-6140.

—Connie and Lynn Baer write on behalf of the Grossmont High School Museum.

EDUCATION / POLITICS sdnews.com Helix 2020-2021 school year to begin online

Helix Highlights

By JENNIFER OSBORN

After much discussion, and using guidance from the state and the county, Helix Charter High School will start the 2020-2021 school year on Aug 17, and in a distance-learning format.

On June 17, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced that all schools in counties on the state watch list would be required to open in a distance learning format only — as of this date, San Diego is one of those counties. Just two days prior, Helix’s Charter Board had come to the same conclusion.

The decision by the Board was not made lightly. Over the past two months, the Helix administrative team and a team of teachers worked tirelessly on options for the 2020-2021 school year, with the goal of providing a rigorous, structured, and quality educational experience, while keeping the health and safety of staff, students, and families in the forefront.

Members of the Helix community were invited to attend a town hall meeting (held via webinar) in late June to learn about the proposed schedules. Following that meeting, more than 1,000 students, parents, and staff members participated in a survey to express their opinions. Using that information, the options were revised

LMFDC

CONTINUED FROM Page 7

After 42 months of a Trump presidency, can anyone honestly claim to envision Donald Trump ever putting his own interests aside, in order to unify the country? Can anyone even imagine Trump displaying the patriotic selflessness of those who preceded him in office?

If there is any sort of crisis that offers a President a clear opportunity to unify the country, it’s a public health emergency. The COVID-19 pandemic brought the American people together, at least for a few months, in a brilliant moment that allowed us all to recognize our interconnectedness and interdependence; we were, literally, all asked to sacrifice for one another. It was stirring, inspirational, and felt like America at its best.

But rather than sound a clarion call for national unity, this President instead lied and minimized the danger to his citizens, refused to accept responsibility for his government’s ill-preparedness and its disastrous response, and then contradicted his administration’s own public safety policies

and ultimately presented to the Helix Charter Board.

The Charter Board approved the distance learning model, as well as a hybrid model (using both online methods, and modified on-campus instruction) to implement as allowed by state and local guidelines. The distance learning includes synchronous activities, where students will be required to attend virtual class meetings in a real-time setting, as well as asynchronous activities in which students will complete assignments and access additional educational materials on their own schedule. Attendance will be taken for the live online classes, and participation in the asynchronous assignments and classwork will be assessed. Teachers and Academic Coaches will provide academic support to students needing additional assistance, and teachers will hold additional small group meetings online when needed.

The Charter Board also approved a delayed start date, moving the first day of school from Aug 10 to Aug 17. The additional time will be used for staff to complete training, develop strong health and safety protocols, train staff and students, then implement and refine the protocols throughout the first semester to maximize the safe return to campus, which hopefully will occur at some point during the school year.

Teachers are also required to complete a 30-hour training, which will result in all Helix teachers being certified in distance learning.

Students continuing their education at Helix already have school-issued Chromebooks, when he believed it was to his political benefit. Donald Trump this month claimed that Americans who wear masks in public do so not in the interest of public health, but rather to signal disapproval of him. Now even the most basic act Americans can do to protect one another from a pandemic disease has been weaponized as a blade of division, to cut deeper the rifts Trump intentionally exploits for his personal gain, and at America’s expense.

It is obvious that Donald Trump has contempt for institutional norms; he also makes plain his malign indifference to America’s laws, and to the Constitution from which those laws derive authority. These qualities represent legitimate threats to our fragile political system.

But perhaps more fundamentally, Donald Trump assaults the very ideal that has held this country through its most grave challenges: the recognition that we are all many, but we are one.

This November, it will be up to us, the many, to ensure that we may remain one, united.

—Sean Quintal is vice president of laws and legislation for the La Mesa Foothills Democratic Club.

which they keep for their Helix career. New students, most notably the incoming freshman class, will be issued their Chromebook at a date and in a manner that will be determined soon.

In addition, the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF), the governing body for high school sports in California, announced on June 20 that all sports that traditionally take place during the fall will be delayed and moved to the winter/spring season. This means that games and practices for cross country, girls’ golf, field hockey, football, girls’ tennis, girls’ volleyball, and boys’ water polo are currently scheduled to begin in mid- to late-December.

These changes and circumstances can pose challenges and hardships for many families, and the Helix community will work to support students and families as they navigate these somewhat uncharted waters. There are ongoing efforts to develop plans to consider all aspects of the school experience — academics, as well as social and emotional well-being.

As always, Helix will continue to work toward its mission of providing a comprehensive education that prepares all students to graduate college-ready and equipped to reach their personal and academic potential.

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

13

LaMesaVillageAssociation.org

55

—Jennifer Osborn writes on behalf of Helix Charter High School.

The Power of WE

Together we thrive. It’s scientifically proven. Connection is key to a longer and more vibrant life, and powers everything WE do here at La Vida Real. It’s like being part of a super supportive family of waiters, chefs, housekeepers, Zest® activities & wellness teams, and a bunch of friendly and fun neighbors, all helping you thrive. Even during challenging times like these, WE find ways to stay connected, like daily dining choices at your doorstep with a personal touch. Experience the Power of WE at La Vida Real senior living community.

Please call 619.592.8067 to schedule a personalized virtual tour or visit our website to learn more.

In depen den t & A ssist ed Li v ing • Memory C a r e R esidences 11588 Via Rancho San Diego • Rancho San Diego, CA • 619.592.8067 EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

RCFE# 374603565

LaVidaRealSeniorLiving.com

14

EDUCATION / OPINION Thousands of students are receiving CARES grants from Grossmont, Cuyamaca colleges July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

More than 4,200 Grossmont (CARES) Act, along with grants they previously received $250 and Cuyamaca College students from the Foundation for Grossmont through the district’s Grossmontwho face financial challenges & Cuyamaca Colleges, and other Cuyamaca College Promise proas the result of the coronavirus program and college funding. gram for first-time students. The pandemic have been approved As of mid-May, more than 2,500 grants can be used for food, housfor emergency grants from the students at Grossmont College and ing, course material, technology, colleges to help them continue over 1,700 students at Cuyamaca childcare and healthcare.

The colleges have been deluged their education. have been approved for emergenThe grants come from the $5 cy grant funding, which is being by students requesting help, with million the colleges collective- disbursed in phases as quickly as more than 4,000 applications ly received from federal funding staff can process the applications. submitted at Grossmont College through the Coronavirus Aid, The students are receiving either and 2,000 Cuyamaca College 20SDG16438_Gas Crew Safety__SD Community News Network__RUN: July at 2020__ Relief and Economic Security a $500 grant or a $250 grant if so far.

1/2 pg Vertical, 4C__Trim: 6.1” x 10.96”

SDG&E GAS CREWS NEVER SLEEP. SO YOU CAN REST EASIER.

A refurbished Chromebook purchased for fall semester students who will be distance learning (Facebook)

“The need is great. I am so grateful we are able to get this support to our students,” said Lynn Neault, chancellor of the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District. “I wish we could do more and we are continuing to seek other resources.”

For Cuyamaca College student Yvonne Hunt, the emergency funds have meant being able to continue her Paralegal Studies classes as she struggles to cope with a precipitous drop in income in the wake of COVID-19.

Hunt was in dire straits after her income took a nosedive from a full-time job to meager hours driving Lyft while sharing cramped quarters occupied by four adults and a 10-year-old child.

“To put it lightly, it has been debilitating,” she said. “The emergency funding means I can keep the lights on and the water running. It also means that I am able to continue my education.”

Another source of aid for students hard hit by the pandemic is $90,000 the college district received from the San Diego Foundation as part of a regional grant to help community college students needing laptop computers and internet access to continue their education. The San Diego Foundation awarded a $500,000 grant to be shared among the

five community college districts in San Diego County.

With its share of monies, Cuyamaca College has purchased 106 refurbished Chromebooks, hotspot devices and 12-month wireless services agreements.

Grossmont College has purchased 261 Chromebooks to be distributed to students in the fall.

The Foundation for Grossmont & Cuyamaca Colleges has also been raising funds specifically to help students who are struggling with the challenges resulting from the pandemic, including job losses and technology needs resulting from classes being converted to online or remote learning. Donations to the foundation’s Emergency Student Support program can be made online.

The colleges are continuing to take applications from students who are seeking grants. At Cuyamaca College, the application process is through the Cuyamaca Cares Emergency Fund (visit bit.ly/3jvSRWd). At Grossmont College, the application process is through the Student Equity and Achievement grant (visit bit.ly/39ixtim).

To be eligible, students must be enrolled in classes in the current term they are applying for funds.

Summer applications are accepted from June 1 to July 31. Fall applications will be accepted from Aug. 1 to Dec. 23.

Letters

yelled at him, “You have to obey the rules, we don't!”

After dark, the rioters started a fire in the LMPD station sally port trying to burn down the station, emulating Minneapolis. The cops could see the fire, but couldn't get there immediately because of the heavy crowds. Eventually they were able to gather enough officers assembled to get to the sally port, and extinguish the fire. However, in the meanwhile, the crowd torched the fire truck in front of the station! The rioters climbed on top of the VFW hall. It was reported the rioters attempted to start a fire on the VFW roof. Eventually a team of officers made it there, and found the rioters failed.

There should be more discussion of the looters arrested, not just the guy throwing Molotov cocktails, to discourage others arsonists!

—Dennis Dauben, La Mesa

CONTINUED FROM Page 6

They’re out there every day and night. SDG&E® safety workers respond 24/7 when a gas leak is suspected. At times, SDG&E crews or gas technicians may need to access a customer’s property to inspect the gas meter and other equipment to keep our system safe and reliable. If you smell a gas leak, go to a safe area away from the leak and call 911 or 800-611-SDGE.

Learn more at sdge.com/safety

Follow us on: © 2020 San Diego Gas & Electric Company. Trademarks are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

20SDG16438_Gas Crew Safety_SDComNwsNtwk_6.1x10.96.indd 1

6/22/20 8:20 AM

speaking to the TV cameras threw her bottle at the Sheriff's guarding the LMPD station, on real time TV camera, and was tagged by a beanbag! Beanbag guns are far from accurate! So it's accepted to throw bottles of water at cops?

After dark, law enforcement was overwhelmed, far outnumbered. Alarms were going off during the looting, but law enforcement could not get there.

Citizen heroes were protecting some of the local business, including Sprouts! Though the rioters challenged the locals, claiming to be armed, one of the citizens responded they had a legal concealed carry, and the rioters waved off! Sprouts should give that local carrots for life! Caught on camera, one protestor got in the face of a sheriff officer, and

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020 BOOKS / ART La Mesa Courier sdnews.com Take a break with fiction reads Featured artist: Lois Meyer

By CHELSIE HARRIS

It’s hard to believe summer is in full swing! Whether you’re social distancing by the pool or staying home and indoors, take a break from reality with one of these reads. They’re all available on ebook or audiobook at sdcl.org.

“Pretty Things” by Janelle Brown: Nina once bought into the idea that her fancy liberal arts degree would lead to a fulfilling career. When that dream crashed, she turned to stealing from rich kids in Los Angeles alongside her wily Irish boyfriend, Lachlan.

Nina learned from the best — Her mother was the original con artist, hustling to give her daughter a decent childhood despite their wayward life. But when her mom gets sick, Nina puts everything on the line to help her, even if it means running her most audacious, dangerous scam yet.

“Such a Fun Age” by Kiley Reid: Alix Chamberlain is a woman who gets what she wants and has made a living, with her confidence-driven brand, showing other women how to do the same.

So she is shocked when her babysitter, Emira Tucker, is confronted while watching the Chamberlains’ toddler one night, walking the aisles of their local

By LINDA MICHAEL

highend supermarket. The store’s security guard, seeing a young black woman out late with a white child, accuses Emira of kidnapping twoyear-old Briar.

A small crowd gathers, a bystander films everything, and Emira is furious and humiliated.

Alix resolves to make things right.

“Party of Two” by Jasmine Guillory: Dating is the last thing on Olivia Monroe’s mind when she moves to Los Angeles to start her own law firm. But when she meets a gorgeous man at a hotel bar and they spend the entire night flirting, she discovers too late that he is none other than hotshot junior senator Max Powell.

Olivia has zero interest in dating a politician, but when a cake arrives at her office with the cutest message, she can’t resist — it is chocolate cake, after all.

“Sunrise on Half Moon Bay” by Robyn Carr: Adele and Justine have never been close.

Born 20 years apart, Justine was already an adult when Addie was born. The sisters love each other but they don’t really know each other.

When Addie dropped out of university to care for their ailing parents, Justine, a successful lawyer, covered the expenses. It was the best arrangement at the time but now that their parents are gone,

Lois Meyer, whose artwork is featured in August on the Foothills Art Association website, has always been passionate about art. She studied drafting, fine art, airbrush, animation, cartooning and graphics in high school and one year of college.

Born and raised in California, Lois moved to Washington in 1989. While there she worked in various types of graphics. When making a letter holder in wood in the image of a friend’s dog she began her career in wood art.

Since then, she has made over 75 wood art pieces.

Lois left Washington and moved back to San Diego to help her father. In 2013, she was invited to show her art at Cabela’s, a famous national retail outdoor sporting outfitter. She titled her show at Cabela’s after a humorous phrase her father often said when she was growing up” “Who wants anything made by a girl?” The name stuck.

Lois’s wood pieces are created one at a time out of multiple quarter-inch layers of dense plywood. Each piece is cut, detailed with a rotary tool, glued and vised together. Seams are puttied, primer coated, airbrushed, detailed with colored pencils and sealed with poly spray.

Depending on complexity, each piece can take from two weeks to a month to complete.

To view the featured artwork of Lois Meyer, as well as the artwork of other local artists, visit the Foothills Art Association website at foothillsartassociation.com.

A wood carving of a Marlin by Lois Meyer

SEE BOOKS, Page 18

(Courtesy Foothills Art Association)

15

—Linda Michael is editorial assistant of Footnotes, the monthly newsletter of the Foothills Art Association

16

NEWS

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

Slight uptick in flights at San Diego Airport

By DAVE SCHWAB | La Mesa Courier

While airline travel in San Diego is ever-so-slowly creeping back, San Diego International Airport (SAN) has implemented a number of modifications and protocols to help ensure the health and safety of passengers and employees choosing to travel amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In April, which could possibly be the height of the pandemic, passenger traffic through the TSA checkpoints was down as much as 95 percent,” said SAN spokesperson Sabrina LoPiccolo.

“As states begin to ease some restrictions, we are starting to see more passengers travel through the terminals.

“Most recently, the number of people through the TSA checkpoints is down about 80 percent.

So while we are still a long way from pre-coronavirus numbers, we are starting to see a slight uptick in travel.”

Added LoPiccolo, “Throughout the last several months, we've been rolling out health and safety measures in the terminals.”

SAN modifications and protocols include increased cleaning of high-touch points, signage

on preventive health measures, floor decals and seat separation signage to queue six-foot social distance, and Plexiglas sneeze guards in certain public spaces.

Per the California Department of Public Health, facial coverings are required for all passengers, visitors, tenants, contractors and employees while on airport property, excluding those with a medical or mental health condition, or developmental disability that prevents wearing a face covering.

“The health and safety of all who work and travel through San Diego International Airport is our top priority,” said Kimberly Becker, San Diego County Regional Airport Authority president and CEO. “It is in accordance with the recommendations of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and San Diego County Health that we’ve implemented these various modifications and protocols. San Diego will always be a desirable place to live and visit. When you’re ready to fly again, we’ll be ready to serve you.”

In a new development, SAN will add once daily, nonstop service to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) on JetBlue beginning Aug. 6.

JetBlue is the third airline to offer nonstop service to EWR, joining Alaska Airlines and United Airlines.

JetBlue is the only carrier that will offer nonstop service to two New York area airports, EWR and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), from SAN. Other routes JetBlue serve from SAN are Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) and Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport (FLL).

SAN offers nonstop service to about 70 destinations in the continental U.S., Europe, Asia, Mexico and Canada. In operation since 1928, the airport celebrated more than 90 years of service to the San Diego region in 2018.

The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority has managed the airport since 2003.

The Airport Authority plans for and provides air transportation services to the region with safe, effective facilities that exceed customer expectations Visit san.org/gosafely for useful information and airport updates related to COVID-19.

—Reach contributing editor Dave Schwab at reporter@sdnews.com.

BE SEEN ONLINE AND GET RESULTS!

We now offer 2 great ways to give your business online exposure!

Expert Advice • Up to 1,000 Words Includes a photo and headline • Be seen as an expert in your field • Can be changed out every six months • Your article never expires!

JUST $249 FOR ONE SITE ($200 for each additional site) Available on: sduptownnews.com sandiegodowntownnews.com missiontimescourier.com lamesacourier.com missionvalleynews.com sdnews.com

Sponsored Links • Great referral source for our online readers • Increase your Google Rankings • Your sponsored link never expires!

JUST $99 FOR ONE SITE ($89 for each additional site) Available on: sduptownnews.com sandiegodowntownnews.com missiontimescourier.com lamesacourier.com missionvalleynews.com

Contact us to have your article or link placed today! 858.270.3103

County COVID-19 deaths surpass 500, cases more than 25,000 A record number of COVID-19 deaths were reported in San Diego, bringing the region’s total to 505, the County Health and Human Services Agency announced on July 22.

Eighteen San Diegans died between June 22 and July 21, and their ages ranged from 51 to 96 years. All had existing medical conditions.

Also, 587 COVID-19 cases were reported July 21, the third-highest one-day total. To date, 25,107 cases have been reported in San Diego County.

Throughout the pandemic, San Diegans over 50 years of age have been hit hardest by COVID-19.

While people in this demographic represent only 31% of the more than 25,000 cases, they account for nearly 96% of the deaths.

COVID-19 has been most deadly for San Diegans 70 years and older. People in this age group represent only 17% of the cases but 87% of the deaths.

“Getting through this pandemic requires that we all do our part to protect ourselves and others,” said Wilma Wooten, M.D., M.P.H., County public health officer. “We are depending on everyone. Every individual, every business, every school and all other sectors to play a role and protect our most vulnerable.”

The disproportionate number of deaths among older people is the fact that nearly all of them had underlying medical conditions such as heart and lung disease, cancer, diabetes, or obesity.

MORE COVID-19 DEATHS BEING REPORTED OUTSIDE CONGREGATE SETTINGS At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, more than half of the deaths were being reported in skilled-nursing facilities and other congregate settings.

Today, more deaths are being reported in the general

population. Of the 505 COVID-19 deaths, 291 or 58% are among the general population compared to 214 or 42% that have been reported in skilled-nursing facilities and other congregate settings.

“The increasing number of deaths outside of congregate facilities is a sign that the virus continues to be widespread and taking a toll on San Diegans, especially older people and those with underlying chronic conditions,” Wooten said.

COUNTY TO DEPLOY COMPLIANCE TEAM A team made up of County staff will be working with representatives from local jurisdictions to address complaints about businesses that are flagrantly not complying with the local health order.

While most businesses have reopened safely and scaled back their operations when asked by the state and the county, some businesses have refused to modify operations or close.

The Safe Reopening Compliance Team will go out to businesses and establishments across the region to ensure compliance with the local Public Health Order and to slow the spread of COVID-19. If they refuse, more strict measures could be taken.

Residents can report businesses defying the public health guidance by calling their local police department’s non-emergency line.

More information on COVID-19 and detailed data summaries can be found at the County’s coronavirus-sd.com website.

COMMUNITY SETTING OUTBREAKS: • Two new outbreaks were identified on July 21, one in a business and one in a healthcare setting.

• In the past seven days, 12 community outbreaks were confirmed.

• The number of community outbreaks remains above the trigger of seven or more in seven days.

• A community setting outbreak is defined as three or more COVID-19 cases in a setting and in people of different households.

Testing: • 8,280 tests were reported to the County on July 21 and 7% were positive new cases.

• The 14-day rolling average percentage of positive cases is 6.0%. The target is less than 8.0%.

• The 7-day, daily average of tests is 9,155.

Cases: • 587 new cases were reported in San Diego County for a total of 25,107.

• 2,279 or 9.1% of cases have required hospitalization.

• 592 or 2.4% of all cases and 26% of hospitalized cases had to be admitted to an intensive care unit.

NEWS

sdnews.com

Anderson CONTINUED FROM Page 1

Since the primary resulted in a close race between the professed conservative, winning over votes from Democrats could be a key strategy to winning in November.

HISTORY OF SERVICE

Anderson was born in Detroit but his family moved when he was in junior high school to San Diego, settling in the Casa de Oro area. After graduating from St. Augustine High School, he attended Grossmont College before transferring to and graduating from Cal Poly Pomona.

After college, Anderson went to work for his brother who had started a direct mail marketing firm whose clients included businesses and politicians.

“Through the course of working for different political campaigns, I was encouraged to run for office,” Anderson said.

His first run for office was in 1998 — a race for State Assembly District 75, which he lost. In 2002, Anderson ran successfully for a seat on the water board, where he served four years, followed by successful campaigns for two terms in the State Assembly then two terms in State Senate.

In 2016, Anderson explored a run against Dianne Jacob for her District 2 seat, but eventually suspended the campaign citing difficulty raising the kind of money he felt he needed to beat the incumbent.

Anderson’s time in the legislature wasn’t without some controversy. In 2018, the Senate reprimanded him after an altercation with a lobbyist who said she was threatened by the senator in a bar.

Despite the pitfalls of public life, Anderson said serving in public office has been an overall rewarding experience.

“You have an opportunity to fix people’s problems — especially in the legislature,” he said.

“Our focus was constituent services. We did between 20 and 90 cases a week where people would have trouble’s with the DMV or Consumer Affairs or the Franchise Tax Board and we were able to intervene on their behalf and brings things to resolution.”

Anderson said his office was able to do things like cut through red tape for small businesses, like a barber waiting for a license; or help inform constituents of money owed to them by the state (one elderly couple had over $200,000 owed to them); or the time a soldier sent to Iraq worried about the registration of his car he left parked in the street and Sen. Anderson’s office was able to get it registered so it wouldn’t be towed.

“No other job allows you to solve problems like that and that’s why it was so rewarding,” he said.

Anderson credits his success in serving his constituents to two things — an internship program that at times had 50 people working in his office and an open communication policy where he published his personal cell phone number.

“Part of our whole philosophy was that we’re responsible to the constituents, so if you have a question, we need to answer it,” he said.

Anderson’s philosophy also includes bipartisan solutions and he points to the 453 bills he has authored with Democrats during his tenure serving in the state legislature.

“Most people don’t know that,” he said. “I did more bills co-authored with Dems than all the other Republicans put together.”

In 2018, Anderson was recognized for his bipartisanship approach with a Chuck Nichols & Pierre Frazier Bridge Builder Award from the USS Midway Museum’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee during its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Luncheon.

“I’m proud to have received a …

Bridge Builder Award. Not many legislators that get type of award, it meant a lot to me,” he said.

Even with his bipartisan record, Anderson still describes himself as an “uber-conservative.”

“There’s no doubt about it — I am,” he said. “But I also understood that I represent a diversity of people and what I think is right doesn’t always turn out to be right and sometimes you’ve got to be open to better ideas. We are doomed if everyone polarizes up and nobody addresses the issues. On both sides, people are laser-focused on serving their

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

base — that doesn’t serve our community. We have to work across party lines.”

COUNTY ISSUES

Working across party lines may become more important for the District 2 seat after the November election. For many years, Republicans dominated the Board of Supervisors — holding every seat until Democrat Nathan Fletcher’s 2018 victory in District 4. This year, the District 1 seat has already been lost to Republicans and another seat is in jeopardy — Kristin Gaspar’s District 3 seat where two Democratic candidates split 57.2 percent of the primary vote. If District 3 goes blue, the Democrats will have a controlling vote on the board.

Anderson is already looking ahead to what issues he can work on with his potential Democratic colleagues, such as expanding pilot programs that help the mentally ill get treatment.

“On the right, a lot of Republi­ cans hate Nathan Fletcher. But look, Nathan Fletcher is right on mental health. He’s been doing all the right things. I disagree with him on some of his bike lanes, but on this, we’ll partner,” he said.

On transportation, Anderson holds a more traditional conservative approach — that the county should fund roads over green transportation options like bike lanes.

“I’m 60. I’m not going to get on my bike and ride five miles to a doctor’s appointment. I’m not going to take a trolley to a hospital. And to ask seniors to do that is unreasonable,” he said. “So we have to protect the roads to ensure they get the medical care that they need and require.”

In tackling the coronavirus outbreak, Anderson holds a conservative view that favors fewer restrictions on people and businesses.

“Flattening the curve was to make sure hospitals had respirators. Now closures are to make sure no one catches it. If a bunch of 20 year olds want to go out and catch it, as long as they’re not giving it to grandma, where her life’s in peril, very few 20 year olds are dying from this. It may be a miserable experience for them,

but they’re not dying,” he said, adding that the county health department should focus less on the number of infections and more on the number of deaths. “If our new norm is that nobody can get sick, we’re doomed as a society because no business will ever open again and at some point you’re not going to have any toilet paper or food or anything else because all those workers can’t afford to be sick and aren’t going to show up.

“I think we have to fight this with science, but unfortunately too many people are fighting it with political science,” he continued. “I think that we need to have a plan, execute the plan and stick to the plan. You look at the news and it’s all arbitrary. It’s OK to have thousands of people rally for a cause — whether it’s for Trump or it’s for Black lives — and that’s OK, but if it’s singing at church, ‘Oh no, we can’t do that.”

On the issue of expanding housing in the county, Anderson also takes a conservative approach by favoring cutting red tape and “antiquated” regulations on projects to lower building costs for developers. When it comes to large-scale developments in the unincorporated areas of the county, he said he would look at projects individually and would heavily weight what neighboring communities think of them.

“But I think you need to be thoughtful,” he said. “You can’t say, ‘I want my children to be able to afford to live in San Diego so I don’t have to visit my grandkids in Phoenix.’ You can’t say that and then say we’re never going to build a house.”

Ultimately, Anderson said he prefers to make decisions based on constituent input rather than rules or procedures that in some instances need to be changed by lawmakers.

“My door is always open, it always has been open and constituent services has always been my focus,” he said. “I do think we deserve better from the county.

This rubber-stamping of staff is not representation. When you defend staff against the people, you’ve lost your way. I’ve always fought for my constituents.”

17

News briefs CONTINUED FROM Page 5

dates of early 2025. The program’s financing plan assures ratepayer affordability through the mix of LRP incentives, grant funding and low interest loans from the state and federal government as well as financing from the municipal bond market.

East County AWP Program partners have invested tens of millions of dollars over the last five years to advance this Project. The MWD Board’s decision to approve targets for local supply development has inspired and encouraged these investments. The East County JPA is currently in the process of awarding almost $400 million dollars in contracts for three design and construction packages for Project infrastructure.

This program is a collaborative partnership between Padre Dam Municipal Water District, the County of San Diego, the City of El Cajon and Helix Water District.

For more information about the East County Advanced Water Purification Program, please visit eastcountyawp.com.

BBB WARNS OF QUARANTINE PUPPY SCAMS Families spending more time at home have turned to the internet to look for a pet. Scammers advertise on websites for pets that don't exist and are never shipped. The coronavirus pandemic has given scammers more opportunities to ask for money upfront. Scammers also make excuses as to why buyers can’t see the pet in person before heartbroken, would-be pet owners figure out they have been conned.

Better Business Bureau Serving the Pacific Southwest (BBB) warns consumers as an increase in puppy scams have nearly doubled during the past few months.

Victims claim to have lost hundreds to thousands of dollars in deposits, specialty crates, COVID-19 sanitation, insurance, shipping and other fees. Since January 2020, BBB has received a total of 61 puppy scams reported on BBB Scam Tracker, and a loss of over $30k just in the Pacific Southwest region. BBB recommends the

—Reach editor Jeff Clemetson at jeff@sdnews.com.

SEE NEWS BRIEFS, Page 18

REAL ESTATE SHOWCASE

Call 858.270.3103 to get your property featured today!

Place Your Ad Here!

Let Us Bring More Customers To You! For More Information Contact Heather Your Sales Consultant

hfine@sdnews.com Cell 951.296.7794

We are your Concierge Real Estate Company Christie Romano

Broker/Owner | Cal #01476904

(619) 677-5773

✉ christie@restandrelaxrealestate.com ChristieRomanoBroker BrokerChristieRomano

Tony Romano

Sales Manager | Realtor / Veteran | Cal #02062741

(619) 677-5773 ✉

tony@restandrelaxrealestate.com

Buy • Sell • Property Managment • Military Relocation

mention this ad for $2,500 towards re/non-reoccuring closing costs

18

BUSINESS & SERVICES / BOOKS / NEWS Books

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

SERVICE DIRECTORY ATTORNEY

CLEANING

ELECTRICIAN

LANDSCAPE/GARDEN

Power

– Free Consultation | No Recovery, No Fee –

Serving our community for over 30 years University Avenue

3180 University Ave. Suite 220 San Diego, CA 92104 (619) 682-5100

Poinsettia Village

7220 Avenida Encinas Suite 203 Carlsbad, CA 92011 (760) 931-2900

BANKERS HILL

SANITIZE YOUR outdoor living space!

Patios, seating areas, driveways, sidewalks, play areas, pool decks, your home or business!

FREE ESTIMATES

619-460-8177

Fischbeck Electric

sdklean.com

(619)749-7105

AUDIOLOGY

Cleaning Service

ENGRAVING

Family owned & operated 15 years experience.

Dr. Robert A. Faillace AuD Dr. Lucia Kearney AuD Comprehensive Hearing Test Hearing Aids Sales & Service

3590 Camino Del Rio North # 201 Located inside the Senta Clinic 619-810-1204

AUTOMOTIVE

Most Cars Under $5000

#1 vacation rental experts

CUSTOMIZED MERCHANDISE PROMOTIONAL ITEMS CORPORATE GIFTS

5636 LA JOLLA BLVD. (858) 373-9866 CONTACT@HDLASER.NET

WWW.HDLASER.NET

FLOORING

WINDOW CLEANING

OLD WORLD O CRAFTSMAN A

Commercial & Residential Mirrors Skylights

INVENTORY CHANGES DAILY Financing Availble Call us today

619-930-9300 or stop by

7400 El Cajon Blvd, Suite 105

619-606-5954

30 Day Rain Guarantee Licensed & Insureed • Free Estimates

619.252.1385 HANDYMAN RENT-A-HUSBAND

Bee Line

• BRAKES • • ALIGNMENT • • A/C SERVICE •

SINCE 1947

• 30/60/90K Maintenance •

WHERE YOU ARE TREATED LIKE ROYALTY!

Cleaning Carpet, Tile, Upholstery for over 28 years.

(UP TO $50 MAX FOR DISCOUNT)

www.service-kings.com

W/ THIS AD

(excludes oil changes) May not be combined with any other offer.

2938 GARNET AVE., PACIFIC BEACH

(858) 273-2411

619-677-6523 Or visit our website at

CONTRACTOR

Hourly or Bid Prompt, Affordable, Professional Insured

Non-licensed

10% OFF

25% OFF Tile & Grout Cleaning 25% OFF restretching or carpet repairs Must mention ad. Some restrictions apply.

Ask for Bob 619-742-0446

HAULING

Lic. #1032673

Home Improvement Specialist ORDER ONLINE

FREE DELIVERY OR CURBSIDE PICK-UP

15% OFF DAILY DEALS: MUNCHIE MONDA AY Y ... EDIBLES TOPICAL TUESDA AY Y ... TOPICALS WEED WEDNESDAY ... FLOWER THIRSTY THURSDA AY Y ... DRINKS SUNDA AY Y FUNDA AY Y ... VAPES Cannot be combined w/other offers.

AFFORDABLE ON-BUDGET EXPERIENCED

SPRING SPECIAL

15% OFF

DECKS, DOORS & WINDOWS

619-541-1737

johnmartinconstruction.com

You Call-We Haul!

No Job Too Small!

Evictions, cleanouts, construction debris, tree trimming, etc.

619-933-4346 www.iluvjunk.com

10% Senior Discount

INSURANCE

www.torreyholistics.com C10-0000242-LIC

WE SPECIALIZE IN: • New Home Construction • Design & Build Projects

Featuring: • Zodiac, AB & Achilles Inflatable Boats • Yamaha, Honda & Tohatsu Outboard Engines Sales + Service + Technicians

Mention codeword “Community Newspaper” for 10% OFF MSRP

dinghydr.com • 619.384-2733 3302 Kurtz St.

CLEANING FREE ESTIMATES (619)755-9651

Regular Deep Cleaning Move in/Out Services

tony@pointlomalandscape.com

(619) 523-4900

• Gardening Services • Lawns • Hedges • Weeding & Trimming

GENERAL CONTRACTOR

• REMODELS • TENANT IMPROVEMENTS • REPAIRS • EVALUATIONS • CONSULTING • BIG/SMALL JOBS • FREE ESTIMATES • FAIR PRICING

619-577-5847 Lic.# 634838

PET SERVICES

ZZZ KDLVKDLQVXUDQFH FRP

• Weekly • Licensed • Free Estimates • Bi-Weekly • Monthly • Reliable

TREE SERVICE

FREE ESTIMATES!

• FINE PRUNING & THINNING • ARTISTIC TREE LACING • TREE & STUMP REMOVAL

CROWNPOINTCLIPPERS@GMAIL.COM

(858)270-1742 Fully licensed and insured. Lic# 723867 SERVING THE LA JOLLA AREA FOR 40 YEARS

LA JOLLA COVE REALTY

LODGING

Retro Hotel Centrally Located in Mission Valley Waffle Spot Locals Favorite Amigo Spot – Old Charm Mexican Cuisine

1150 Silverado St, La Jolla La Jolla Professional Bldg.

Private Dog Training Dog Walking Portable Agility & Dog Socialization Professional Certified Dog Trainer & Dog Behaviorist Call/Text Wendi for information: (619) 742-4482

Loving Pet Care at Your Home DOG WALKING PET VISITS Since 2000

619.297.2231

Kingsinnsandiego.com

MEDITATION

Divorce made less painful through mediation • Property Taxes • Custody • Debt Repayment

Call Mark

PHYSICAL THERAPY

RECLAIMED WOOD RECLAIMED WOOD doesn’t mean rustic!

Attention Designers, Contractors Architects or DYI home owners!

• Showroom located next to our lumber yard • Pre-made Mantels • Live-edge Slabs • Wall Displays, Furniture & more!

• Custom Projects • Open 7 Days reclaimedwoodsandiego.com

REMODELING

REMODELING • Bath & KItchen Remodeling • Plumbing Repairs & Installations •Heating and A/C Repair & Installations Kitchen & Bath Showroom

Free Estimates

Call us today!

858-220-3213

8348 Center Dr. La Mesa

www.tasspt.com

PAINTING

PLUMBING

CA Lic. #925325

LIC. 684628

Helping you achieve optimal health since 2000

Over 20 years in Pacific Beach!

619-463-1600 SENIOR CARE

A Lifestyle of Choices

Bill Harper Plumbing.com Licenced Plumber with years of experience in residential homes Prompt, Professional and Affordable Phone Estimates, Cash Discounts

CALL BILL 619-224-0586 Lic #504044

619-464-6801

5740 Lake Murray Blvd La Mesa

Full-length stories “When Quality Matters”

We specialize in complete interior & exterior projects Gutters Kitchen Concrete Bath Windows Moldings Waterprooing Baseboards Masonry Flooring Brickwork Painting Drywall Remodels and more!

Stucco Senior & Military Discounts Free Estimates from owner John Gregg

619.665.0754

Member BBB • Lic. #950146 • doublegpainters.com

Online updates Comments Event calendars and more!

sdnews.com

CONTINUED FROM Page 15

the future has changed dramatically for both women.

“The Happy Ever After Playlist”

by Abby Jimenez: Two years after losing her fiancé, Sloan Monroe still can’t seem to get her life back on track. But one trouble-making pup with a “take me home” look in his eyes is about to change everything.

With her new pet by her side, Sloan finally starts to feel more like herself.

Then, after weeks of unanswered texts, Tucker’s owner reaches out.

He’s a musician on tour in Australia.

And bottom line — he wants Tucker back.

The La Mesa Library is now accepting returns via the drop boxes on Allison Avenue. Due dates have been extended and fines are not being charged. You can also order new materials at sdcl.org and we will call you to make an appointment to pick them up when they arrive here for you.

Keep checking our website and social media pages for additional reopening information – we hope to see you soon!

—Chelsea Harris is managing librarian at the La Branch Library.

mercedes@lajollacoverealty.com

3570 Hancock St, Sports Arena

www.afairway.com

chuckgjr@cox.net

Bus: (858) 454-0157 Cell: (858) 232-5565

(619) 269-3036

1333 Hotel Circle South San Diego, CA 92108

LANDSCAPE/GARDEN

CROWN POINT CLIPPERS, INC.

REALTOR

Residential & Investment Realtor

www.chuckiespainting.co

Check out our portfolio online

Construction

619-584-8155 www.harborpest.com

Allied Garden Resident Since 1993 30 Years Experience Specializing in Local Communities

(619) 795-9429

• Kitchens, Baths & Garages

STARBOARD

Since 1948 Fumiga eneral Pest Contol | Termites | Ants | Roaches | Rodents | Spiders | Wasps | Bed Bugs

Mercedes La Fond

Painting Company

• New Additions

hagbergsd.com 858-292-5009

SAN DIEGO’S

We Do It ALL!

Chuckie’s

• Major Remodels

INFLATABLE BOATS & OUTBOARD ENGINE DEALERSHIP

$40 A VISIT MAINTENANCE WEEKLY • BI • MONTH SPRINKLER DOCTORS IN CLEAN-UPS•HAUL/DUMP SENIOR TO SENIOR 10% CA. ST. LIC. #0783646

619.702.9174

10671 Roselle St. #100 | San Diego, CA 92121

BOAT SALES/SERVICE

PEST CONTROL

(619) 295-6792

www.beelinebrakes.com

ALT. MEDICINE

POINT LOMA LANDSCAPE

Many Skills

SAVE $45

$99

858-454-4258

5771 LA JOLLA BLVD #5

Handyman with 30 years experience

CARPET CLEANING SPECIAL

3 ROOMS

San Diego’s Oldest Plumbing Company.

Offering quality service & repair for 110 years.

ERLINGROHDEPLUMBING.COM

Turner Landscape

CARPET & TILE CLEANING

AUTO REPAIR

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

BY A VIETNAM VET

SUMMER SPECIAL!

MARKING ENGRAVING & CUTTING

Ray & Roger’s

Tracks Screens

Rgans24@hotmail.com

06 731 Lic.5

MAINTENANCE EXPERTS

Free estimates & excellent references (619) 248-5238

MAKE IT COUNT! 858.531.818

FischbeckElectric.com

by Cecilia Sanchez

Office, residential & vacancy cleanings

Your health is your wealth -

For all your electrical needs: Solar Systems Green Energy Ssavings Panel Upgrades and Changes Remodels Recessed Lighting, etc.

CA Lic. #900788 (10-12)

A Professional Corporation

www.kdcinjurylaw.com

PLUMBING

GansFitness

PERSONAL INJURY – ACCIDENTS

Auto | Cycle | Pedestrian Dog Bite | Slip and Fall Brain Injury | Wrongful Death

PERSONAL TRAINER

CareGiver/Companion

Can Do: Hospice, Alzheimer’s Parkinson’s, ALS, and more.

Medications, Appointments Errands, Bathing, Wonderful Cook, Lite Housekeeping, Pet Care, Live in/out, I’ll help with your daily needs.

Call Laura for interview at 858-243-8288 Thank You

News briefs CONTINUED FROM Page 17

following tips to avoid getting caught in this tear-jerking scam: Visit the pet in person. Proper precautions can allow visitation with a possible pet, such as maintaining social distancing and wearing facial masks. Consumers can also ask to see a puppy over a live video chat.

Use reverse image search to locate if the picture of the puppy appears on different sites.

Avoid payment methods that cannot trace the seller. Methods that offer no recourse and no way to get money back for victims of fraud include wire service, gift cards or apps such as PayPal or Zelle. Credit cards may be accepted but fraudsters will steal the information to use it in other scams.

Research breed prices. Purebred dogs advertised at discounted prices may be fraudulent. Look out for additional fees for services such as vaccination, shipping, special crating or Covid-19 related charges, which could be a sign of a scam.

Reach out to local animal shelters. Adopting from verified shelters alleviates potential scam threats.

Shelters are looking for families to adopt or foster, which helps reduce overcrowding at facilities. Humane Society of the United States refers consumers to local shelters.

Report scams to BBB Scam Tracker and the Federal Trade Commission. Consumers also can report to petscams.com, which catalogues puppy scammers, tracks complaints and endeavors to take down fraudulent pet sales websites.

To schedule an interview, or to speak with a BBB Public Relations Specialist, please email pr@bbbcommunity.org or call 602-212-2204.

CLASSIFIEDS / PUZZLES

sdnews.com

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

SERVICE DIRECTORY Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 888-609-2189

AUTO’S WANTED CARS/TRUCKS WANTED!!! 2002 and Newer!

Any Condition. Running or Not. Competitive Offer! Free Towing! We’re Nationwide! Call Now: 1-888-416-2330.

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for [350+ ] procedures. Real dental insurance -NOT just a discount plan. [Don’t wait!] Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-877-308-2834 www.dental50plus.com/cadnet #6258

EDUCATION AIRLINES ARE HIRING - Get FAA approved hands on Aviation mechanic training. Financial Aid for qualified students – Career placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 888-686-1704 TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING! Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get Trained, Certified & ready to work in months! Call 888-572-6790. (M-F 8am-6pm ET) COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Now offering a $10,000 scholarship qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! 888-449-1713 (M-F 8am-6pm ET)

VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 100 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-445-5928 Hablamos Espanol

!! OLD GUITARS WANTED!! GIBSON, FENDER, MARTIN, Etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. TOP DOLLAR PAID. CALL TOLL FREE 1-866-433-8277

Were you or a loved one diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer, Endometrial Cancer, Fallopian Tube Cancer or Peritoneal Cancer in 2010 or later and used Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder regularly in the genital area previous to diagnosis?

If so, you may be entitled to compensation. Call 877-761-9069.

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today.

15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-402-0373

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 procedures. Real dental insurance. NOT just a discount plan. [Don't wait!] Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-888-623-3036 www.dental50plus.com/58 #6258

Cross country Moving, Long distance Moving Company, out of state move $799 Long Distance Movers. Get Free quote on your Long distance move. 1-844-452-1706 Call Empire Today® to schedule a FREE in-home estimate on Carpeting & Flooring. Call Today! 1-855-404-2366

Recently diagnosed with LUNG CANCER and 60+ years old? Call now! You and your family may be entitled to a SIGNIFICANT CASH AWARD. Call 877-648-6308 today. Free Consultation. No Risk.

DIRECTV - Switch and Save! $39.99/month.

Select All-Included Package. 155 Channels. 1000s of Shows/Movies On Demand. FREE Genie HD DVR Upgrade. Premium movie channels, FREE for 3 mos! Call 1-855-781-1565

HOME IMPROVEMENT Stay in your home longer with an American Standard Walk-In Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-855-534-6198

DISH Network $59.99 For 190 Channels! Add High Speed Internet for ONLY $19.95/month.

Call Today for $100 Gift Card! Best Value & Technology. FREE Installation. Call 1-855-837-9146 (some restrictions apply)

MEDICAL ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. FREE information kit. Call 877-929-9587

Attention: Auto Injury Victims. If you have suffered a serious injury in an auto accident, call us!

Our attorneys have the experience to get you the full compensation you deserve! Call Now: 855-341-2271

Still paying too much for your MEDICATION? Save up to 90% on RX refill! Order today and receive free shipping on 1st order - prescription required. Call 1-888-906-1529

Only the Highest quality CBD products from AceWellness! We guarantee highest quality, most competitive pricing on CBD products. Softgels, Oils, Skincare, Vape & more. Coupon Code: PRINT20 1-855-681-3113

MISCELLANEOUS Earthlink High Speed Internet. As Low As $14.95/month (for the first 3 months.) Reliable High Speed Fiber Optic Technology. Stream Videos, Music and More! Call Earthlink Today 1-855-520-7938

CASH FOR CARS: We Buy Any Condition Vehicle, 2002 and Newer. Nationwide Free Pick Up! Call Now: 1-800-864-5960.

DIAGNOSED WITH LUNG CANCER? You may qualify for a substantial cash award - even with smoking history. NO obligation! We've recovered millions. Let us help!! Call 24/7, 833-518-0768

Applying for Social Security Disability or Appealing a Denied Claim? Call Bill Gordon & Assoc., Social Security Disability Attorneys, 1-855498-6323! FREE Consultations. Local Attorneys Nationwide [Mail: 2420 N St NW, Washington DC. Office: Broward Co. FL (TX/NM Bar.)]

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation Experts Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 844-909-3339

Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by

NO MORE GUTTER CLEANING, OR YOUR MONEY BACK GUARANTEED! CALL US TODAY FOR

A FREE ESTIMATE

15 %

OFF

AND!

YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE*

Promo Number: 285

1-855-995-2490

10 %

OFF

SENIOR & MILITARY DISCOUNTS

+

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today.

15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-995-2490 Protect your home with home security monitored by ADT. Starting at $27.99/mo. Call now to get a Free equipment bundle including: Keypad, motion sensor, wireless door and windows sensors. Call 833-719-1073

HughesNet Satellite Internet - 25mbps starting at $49.99/mo! Get More Data FREE Off-Peak Data. FAST download speeds. WiFi built in! FREE Standard Installation for lease customers! Limited Time, Call 1-855-973-9254

GENERIC VIAGRA and CIALIS! 100 Pills $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-889-5515

Need some cash? Sell us your unwanted gold, jewelry, watches & diamonds. Call GOLD GEEK 1-844-209-9872 or visit www.GetGoldGeek.com/ nani BBB A+ Rated. Request your 100% FREE, no risk, no strings attached appraisal kit. Call today!

Two great new offers from AT&T Wireless! Ask how to get the Next Generation Samsung Galaxy S10e FREE. FREE iPhone with AT&T's Buy one, Give One. While supplies last! CALL 1-866-5658452 or www.freephonesnow.com/cadnet

Stay in your home longer with an American Standard Walk-In Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-855-4813969 or visit www.walkintubquote.com/national

HEALTH & FITNESS

BOY SCOUT COMPENSATION FUND - Anyone that was inappropriately touched by a Scout leader deserves justice and financial compensation! Victims may be eligible for a significant cash settlement. Time to file is limited. Call Now! 833-729-0164

AT&T Internet. Starting at $40/month w/12-mo agmt. Includes 1 TB of data per month. Get More For Your High-Speed Internet Thing. Ask us how to bundle and SAVE! Geo & svc restrictions apply.

Call us today 1-888-796-8850 DIRECTV NOW. No month. 65 Channels.

Live Events, Sports No Annual Contract.

1-866-825-6523

DISH TV $59.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. 1-833-872-2545.

Residential and Commercial Solar

London Gate

Alex the Solar Guy Best deal GUARANTEED! CALL OR TEXT ALEX GROM FOR A FREE CUSTOMIZED BROCHURE

Full-length stories Online updates

Watchmaker & Jeweler

Comments Event calendars

Experts on Rolex, Patek Philippe, Cartier & all Fine Watches WE BUY GOLD Genuine Factory Parts Batteries Installed while you wait.

OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

and more!

1451 Garnet Ave. Pacific Beach

l

h

sdnews.com

858-270-6565

908.578.1315 l

SUDOKU PUZZLE

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

SERVICES BATHTUBS REFINISHED like new without removal. Bathtubs-Kitchen Sinks-Washbasins.

Fiberglass and Porcelain. Over 25 years in San Carlos. Lic.#560438. 619-464-5141 (07/16) Keith Everett Construction & Handyman Services. All phases of home remodeling & repair.

Specialty in all types of fencing, decks & patio covers. No job to small. Senior discounts. Lic. #878703 619.501.7480

WANTED TO BUY Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201 Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the above classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it is illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. Toll free numbers may or may not reach Canada.

FREE!

Savings Include an American Standard Right Height Toilet FREE! ($500 Value)

Walk-In Tubs

WALK-IN BATHTUB SALE! SAVE $1,500 ✔ Backed by American Standard’s 140 years of experience ✔ Ultra low entry for easy entering & exiting ✔ Patented Quick Drain® Technology ✔ Lifetime Warranty on the bath AND installation, INCLUDING labor backed by American Standard

OFF

TO THE FIRST 50 CALLERS!**

✔ 44 Hydrotherapy jets for an invigorating massage Limited Time Offer! Call Today!

877-381-3271

Mon-Thurs: 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat: 8am-5pm, Sun: 2pm-8pm EST

*For those who qualify. One coupon per household. No obligation estimate valid for 1 year. ** Offer valid at estimate only. CSLB# 1035795 DOPL #107836585501 License# 7656 License# 50145 License# 41354 License# 99338 License# 128344 License# 218294 License# 603 233 977 License# 2102212986 License# 2106212946 License# 2705132153A License# LEAFFNW822JZ License# WV056912 License# WC-29998-H17 Nassau HIC License# H01067000 Registration# 176447 Registration# HIC.0649905 Registration# C127229 Registration# C127230 Registration# 366920918 Registration# PC6475 Registration# IR731804 Registration# 13VH09953900 Registration# PA069383 Suffolk HIC License# 52229-H

Lung Cancer?

WATCHMAKERS

NEW AUTHORS WANTED! Page Publishing will help you selfpublish your own book. FREE author submission kit! Limited offer! Why wait? Call now: 866-951-7214

5%

Asbestos exposure in industrial, construction, manufacturing jobs, or the military may be the cause. Family in the home were also exposed.

Call 1-866-795-3684 or email cancer@breakinginjurynews.com. $30 billion is set aside for asbestos victims with cancer. Valuable settlement monies may not require filing a lawsuit.

Satellite Needed. $40/ Stream Breaking News, & On Demand Titles.

No Commitment. CALL

SOLAR

CONT.

Fill in the blank cells using number 1 to 9. Each number can appear only once in each row column and 3x3 block. Use logic and process elimination to solve the puzzle.

Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author’s Guide 1-877-626-2213

AUTO DONATIONS

19

Or visit: www.walkintubinfo.com/network

WORSHIP DIRECTORY Wed. Night........6:30pm to 8:00pm Sat. Night..........6:30pm to 8:00pm Sunday.............10:00am to 11:30am Tuesday.............6:30pm to 8:00pm

WORSHIP DIRECTORY

619-697-7221

Advertise your Church in the Worship Directory & Reach 28,000 Readers

Calvary Chapel 7525 El Cajon Blvd.

La Mesa, CA 91942.

Call Heather @ 951.296.7794 hfine@sdnews.com

Pastor Dave Riley

CLUES ACROSS 1. One-time world power 5. Central Florida city 10. Winged nut 12. Elevate spiritually 14. Creative 16. It cools your home 18. Woman (French) 19. “60 Minutes” network 20. Old World lizard 22. Swiss river 23. Ethnic group of Cambodians 25. Abba __, Israeli politician

26. Tire measurement 27. Affirmative 28. Thrust horse power (abbr.)

30. One point north of due east 31. A type of “pet” 33. Tech giant 35. European nation 37. Fencing swords 38. Acquired 40. Origin 41. Cashless payment interface 42. Pouch 44. Peter’s last name

CLUES DOWN 17. Hosts film festival 1. “Pulp Fiction” actress Thurman 18. Shows you how to get there 2. Actors’ organization 21. Arranged alphabetically 3. Conscientious investment approach 23. S. Thai isthmus 4. Ranch (Spanish) 24. The 17th letter of the Greek alphabet 5. Beginning 27. Woods 6. Index 29. Make yourself attractive 7. Portuguese wine 32. Concealed 8. A feudal superior 34. Large primate 9. Military brach (abbr.)

35. A favorite saying of a sect or polit10. Lithuanian given name ical group 11. A way to become different 36. Tropical fruits 13. Able to be domesticated 39. Obstruct 15. Defensive nuclear weapon 40. Car mechanics group

45. Inclined 48. Palestinian territory __ Strip 50. A type of syrup 52. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!

53. Weather Underground activist 55. Run batted in 56. Frozen water 57. Sodium 58. Philly specialty 63. Cuts the wool off 65. Rules 66. Icelandic literary works 67. Tattled 43. Stroke gently 44. They’re in your toolbox 46. Throngs 47. One and only 49. In a way, bent 51. “Downton Abbey” broadcaster 54. Herring-like fish 59. A major division of geological time 60. Vast body of water 61. Cannister 62. Encourage 64. The man

20

July 24 – Aug. 27, 2020

La Mesa Courier

sdnews.com