Clairemont Times, March 2015

The

Clairemont Times Serving Clairemont, Bay Park, Linda Vista & Kearny Mesa

V5.E3

News of the Neighborhoods

MARCH 2015

Community Survey 9

11

Clairemont’s Food Scene Heats Up

by Michael Baehr/Clairemont Chowhound

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Linda Vista Skate Park "The Blue Print - After the Draft to Selecting the Team"

by Chris Limon

Chris Limon in front of a Birds Eye Graphic of the LVSP

Perhaps it’s a sign of the improving economy, as several new eateries have opened or plan to open in the coming weeks and months.

Clairemont’s plazas and strip malls are experiencing a rebirth of sorts and local residents are the lucky benefactors. The latest site to revamp its food offerings is the Clairemont Village shopping mall anchored by Keil’s grocery store.

We’ve seen several food establishments come and go at this location, but the latest food news is that two new restaurants will be added to the existing food roster in the coming weeks.

SEE Food Scene, page 2

An alternative outlet that supports healthy lifestyle choices for our youth, was the call. I am proud to announce that in a collaborative effort and in a showing of community solidarity Linda Vista answered the call in a very big way.

The Linda Vista Rec. Council voted in February 10-2 in favor of amending the general development plan to include the 38,000+sq. ft. state of the art skate park. Once the City Park and Rec Board gives the design its final nod around May, the City will begin accepting Request For Qualifications from various construction firms interested in the project.

I'm confident the design will hang on SITE Design Group Inc. and Schmidt Design Groups wall of great accomplishments for many years to come, as well it should.The two companies lived up to every expectation the community had and further, even taking the time to schedule a conference call one afternoon to make certain the design and community expectations were in SEE Linda Vista Skate Park, page 7

Clairemont Community Planning Group Elections, March 17, 2015 The Clairemont Community Planning Group, CCPG, will hold elections on March 17, 2015 for eight of its 16 seats on the Group. The CCPG is a non-paid volunteer committee and is the City-recognized citizens group that advises the Mayor, City Council and Planning Commission, City Staff and other governmental agencies on land use matters, specifically concerning development projects within the CCPG community boundaries and the preparation of, adoption of, implementation of, or amendment to, the General Plan or a land use plan that relates to the CCPG community boundaries.

Cast your vote: Date: March 17 • Time: 9 am to 6 pm Location: Live Well Center at the North Clairemont Recreational Center Front Lobby Area 4425 Bannock Avenue San Diego 92117 Do you want to be a member of the Clairemont Community Planning Group?

Members of the CCPG serve two-year terms with a limit of four consecutive terms of service in most cases. To be eligible to serve on the CCPG, a community member must: 1) Have attended two meetings of the CCPG within the last year (12 months, March 2014 through February 2015); and 2) Own property within the community plan area, or 3) Be a resident whose primary address of residence is an address in the community planning area, or SEE Planning Group, page 8

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From the Publisher, I hope this finds you all well and thank you for reading.

I am confident there is a bit of information in this edition for everyone. As always, and I cannot say it enough, I am eternally grateful for the help of the many people who help to produce this local paper. Easily 100 people have a hand in this edition.

This month we have some local sports news. We have a couple business related articles this month one on taxes and another on estate planning. Those two topics it seems laws

Food Scene Continued from page 1

Recently opened Rita’s Italian Ice took over the location next to RiteAid, once a popular coffee hangout. This is one of two locations for Rita’s in the Clairemont area and has become this Chowhound’s latest obsession. Purely for selfish research purposes, I put Rita’s tagline “ice, custard, happiness” to the test.The verdict: it’s true, ice plus custard really does equal happiness! My current craving is a small Gelati, which is a layering of mango flavored Italian ice and creamy frozen vanilla custard ($3.99). It’s like a refreshing mango creamsicle. (Note to self, more research needed.)

Coming soon to the Clairemont Village is a tropical-themed restaurant called Coastal Crave opening around March 1 along the main entrance to

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or regulations are always changing so there is some good information to be had.

Many of us are aware of the trolley coming to the western neighborhoods and the proposed development/redevelopment/density/change that will also occur, page 9 has a survey from the Raise the Balloon group which you are all encouraged to fill out and mail back. Additionally, there is a public meeting (info on page 5) where you can also drop off your survey.

With the Spring season around the corner we have plenty of outdoor news and events. The Clairemont

Chowhound was working overtime last month sniffing out and writing about the local restaurant scene.

We’ve got some blarney and politics and an election coming up (somehow those 3 topics are always intertwined). There is plenty more information in this edition and there is always a lot more information on www.ClairemotTimes.com come on by and visit.

If there is a topic or an idea you would like to see addressed, please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly (858) 752-9779 and/or chris@clairemonttimes.com. I do my best to

always answer my phone and respond to all emails and voicemails. If you have compliment super, if you have a complaint no problem I process those as well, it’s all good I have thick Irish skin.

Enjoy this edition, Happy St Patrick’s Day! Sincerely,

Chris O’Connell, Publisher

the mall. Owner Mark Harp, who also owned the now-closed Sky Box Sports Grill across town, envisions something completely new for his restaurant starting with the inviting patio, cozy fire pit, and a unique menu including craft beer, cocktails and exotic dishes.

Another newcomer to this location is Mike’s BBQ, taking over the former location of LW’s BBQ near the Time Warner Cable shop. They claim to be the “best BBQ joint in San Diego” serving allnatural mesquite grilled ribs, chicken and steak. This family owned business began in 2011 in

Escondido and this will be Mike’s second BBQ joint. Currently, they are scheduled to open mid to late April.

Between all the new restaurants, bakeries and food businesses opening in the Clairemont Village, Clairemont Town Square, Genesee Plaza, Balboa Mesa Shopping Center and other spots around town, this Chowhound will be busy!

Look for additional food reviews and commentary in the coming months in the CT and online at www.clairemonttimes.com.

Berg Taxes Serving the Greater Clairemont Area Since 1992

Bob Berg Enrolled Agent

bobberg@bergtaxes.com 5252 Balboa Ave, Suite 501 San Diego, CA 92117

(858) 279-1040 (office) (858) 335-0366 (cell)

(See page 12 for more dining news by the Clairemont Chowhound)

For more news and information visit: www.clairemonttimes.com

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Some Estate Planning Basics

by Dick McEntyre, Attorney at Law

1. Surprisingly to me, about 35% of folks die without leaving a will or trust to pass on their property. This is called dying “intestate.” The result is that your property passes to your heirs in a “pecking order” pre-established by the California Probate Code–possibly not in the manner you would have chosen had you made a will or a trust. Another negative consequence of dying intestate is that your estate will have to undergo a costly and time-consuming probate before title to the property can be transferred to your heirs.

2. So, to pass on your property should you use a will or a trust? As a starting point, if you own a home, you should make a trust. This is because when you die, no probate of the trust would be required, whereas a probate would be required if this house passed, instead, by a will. When you do set up a trust, be sure to transfer title to the house by deed to yourself as trustee of your new trust.

3. Just what is a “trust?” A trust is an arrangement whereby you as “trustor” transfer certain property to a “trustee” (typically yourself while you are alive) who holds and manages this property for the benefit of a “beneficiary” (again, typically yourself while you are alive, and whoever you leave the property to, upon your death).

The terms of this trust are set forth in a trust instrument (usually called a Declaration of Trust or a Trust Agreement).

4. In the above case, what type of trust should you use? Typically, you will use what is called a revocable living trust. Such a trust is “revocable,” since it can be changed in any manner

or even terminated while you are still alive. It is “living,” because it is created while you are alive.

5. If you create a revocable living trust, are there other estate planning documents you should create? If so, what are they? Yes, there are some supplemental estate planning documents you should have. Here are the most important ones: Will – This will provide that anything that was not transferred into your trust, or disposed of by other means (such as a life insurance policy death benefit payable to its beneficiary) will pass to your trust and be distributed as a part hereof.

General Power of Attorney – this is a general/financial power of attorney–designating an “agent” to conduct your affairs if you are unable.

Advanced Health Care Directive – contains: a health care power of attorney – designating an agent to make emergency medical and related decisions on your behalf if you are unable; “pull the plug” provisions if you so desire; and organ donation directions as you see fit.

6. If you’re married, what estate planning documents do you need?

Typically a married couple will have one “joint” trust instrument between yourselves, and a separate will, general power of attorney, and advance health care directive for each of you.

Always ready to be of service, I am Dick McEntyre, having served the San Diego community for over 40 years. If you have a tough time getting around, I will gladly make a “house call.”

Dick McEntyre is a lawyer doing estate planning, estate administration, and real estate legal work. His office is located at 3156 Sports Arena Boulevard, Suite 102, San Diego, CA 92110 For more information call (619) 221-0279 or visit www.richardfmcentyre.com

Pioneer Ocean View UCC & The Caregiver Coalition of San Diego - Presents

YOUR HEALTH, YOUR CHOICE DATE: March 20, 2015 • TIME: 5:30pm-8:00pm 2550 Fairfield Street, San Diego, CA 92110 • (619) 276-4881 “NAVIGATE YOUR FUTURE NOW” Topics to be covered: • Financial Planning Estate & Trusts–Richard Scott Stewart, Attorney, CA Estate & Elder Law, LLP • Planning Ahead-Difficult Conversations-Veva Arroyo, Business Development, Sharp Healthcare • Making Funeral Arrangements-Samantha Betten, Vice President, The Cathedral Group • Memorials & End of Life Preparations-Rev. Mary Sue Brookshire, Pioneer Ocean View UCC

Early Dinner will be served at 5:30pm Presentations will commence no later than 6:30pm Donations appreciated: Donations received will further the work of the Elderberries.

RSVP by Wed., March 11, 2015.

Info or reservations, contact Coreen Fujinami (619-276-4881) no later than Wed., March 11, 2015. You may also contact Louise Iguchi or Judy Shimamoto.

Thank you and we hope to see you on March 20, 2015.

Event sponsored by: POVUCC Elderberries www.pioneeroceanviewucc.com

To Advertise Your Business in the Clairemont Times Newspaper or online at www.ClairemontTimes.com Call or Email Chris (858) 752-9779 or Chris@Clairemonttimes.com

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DIRECTORY SPONSORED BY SAFETY Police 911 Fire 911

Non emerg 619.531.2000 Non emerg 619.533.4300 TRANSPORTATION

MTS iTN On the Go

877.232.7433 619.282.0073 858.637.3000 USEFUL

Post Office Sr. Center AARP AAA VA Hospital Social Security Medicaid Alzheimer’s Assoc

858.273.0558 858.483.5100 619.641.7020 800.400.4222 858.552.8585 800.772.1213 800.541.5555 800.272.3900

The Clairemont Woman’s Club The Clairemont Woman’s Club (CWC) invites you to attend our meeting on Wednesday, March 4th at 1 p.m.

March is designated “Woman’s History Month.” Our club historian, Pat Rodrigues, will present a program on that very theme. Refreshments will be served.

We meet at the Balboa Community Church at 6555 Balboa Avenue. Please park around the corner on Mt.Albertine in the church parking lot.

In February we sponsored a successful lunch at the Outback Restaurant in Town Square. Nine Hundred and Ninety dollars was raised towards the scholarship fund for a graduating girl from both Clairemont and Madison High Schools. Many thanks and appreciation to Manager Mark and his entire staff and to the community at large for attending this worthy and delicious event.

We also support the Warrior Foundation Freedom Station here in San

Diego with a fashion show and luncheon on March 1. Other projects are Pennies for Pines, Box Tops for Education, Storefront, CCSA, and sending a student to a leadership seminar.

But we are not all work and no play.

We enjoy outings for lunch once a month, a book club, bus trips to Viejas and gatherings at each other’s homes.

As you can see, we are a busy group!!! Want to join us and help give back? You do not have to live in Clairemont.

For more information about CWC, visit our website at www.clairemontwomansclub.com or “like” us on Facebook. You may also call Jackie at (858) 273-7664 or Evelyn at (858) 2794367 Contact us or attend a meeting to learn more.

For more information about CWC, visit our website at www.clairemontwomansclub.com or “like us” on Facebook. You may also call Jackie at (858) 273-7664 or Evelyn at (858) 279-4367.

Contact us or attend a meeting to learn more.

It’s Time to let the City Planning Department Know What We Want

by James LaMattery, Spokesperson for Raise The Balloon

Since the April 2014 unveiling of the Morena Blvd Station Area Planning Study and the revelation that they wanted to bust our 30 ft height limit to allow developers to build to 60 ft, we have told them what we don’t want.

Now’s the time to tell them what we do want.

Our 10-question Community Survey is online at www.raisetheballoon.com and in this edition of the Clairemont Times. (See page 9 fill it out and mail it in)

It takes 5 minutes to complete.We have volunteers going door-to-door with an explanatory flyer throughout the community.

Many of our elderly residents don’t have computer access to take the survey online, so we are asking any volunteers who would like to distribute the March edition of the CT to them, to please contact us using the contact page on www.raisetheballoon.com.

No matter what side of the issues you’re on, we need to hear from as many residents as possible in order to present these views to the City Council as well as help us formulate

and finalize our Community Initiated Amendments.You can find out more about these amendments on our website.

We’re hosting a ‘2015 Kick-off’ meeting on March 12th from 6:30 to 8pm at Bay Park Elementary School Auditorium. We will update everyone on the planning process and discuss and review the survey results and unveil our RTB action plan for 2015.

Fill out the Community Survey on Page 9

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MARCH LIBRARY EVENTS BALBOA BRANCH 4255 MT. ABERNATHY AVE., 92117 (858) 573-1390

CLAIREMONT BRANCH 2920 BURGENER BLVD., 92110 (858) 581-9935 SPECIAL EVENTS Adult Book Club 3/4 6pm Members will discuss A Thousand Acres by Jane Smiley Caregiving Tips for Alzheimer's and Other Dementias 3/5 2pm Join local TV personality, Alzheimer's educator and former caregiver Kristen Cusato for a discussion on how to better communicate with, and support, your loved one with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.

Free Concert: Päivikki Nykter and Cecilia Kim 3/25 6pm Please join us for this fabulous evening of violin and cello! This program is made possible through generous donations from the Friends of the Clairemont Library.All are welcome, and no sign-up is required.

RECURRING EVENTS Art Class for Children Ages 6-12 3/4 4pm The class is led by Robert Gulli.

The Friends of the Library Monthly Meeting 3/18 4pm Tuesdays: Homework Help Tuesdays 6:30 p.m.

Free Homework Help for students in grades K-12.Tutors are adult volunteers • On the 1st and 3rd Thursday 10:30 am • “BabySign Storytime”, a storytime with sign language for children ages 0-2 and their caregivers • On the 2nd, 4th and 5th 10:30 am Storytime with our Youth Services Librarian, Karina.

• Thursdays: Craft Time 4:00pm For children and their families with our Youth Services Librarian, Karina.

• Fridays10:30 am Preschool Storytime with Miss Fran.

SPECIAL EVENTS Spring is in the air! Visit the Balboa Library and decorate a flower and we will add it to our spring display!

Celebrate Read Across America Day and Dr. Seuss’s Birthday 3/2 3:30-5 We will have a variety of Dr. Seuss themed crafts and face painting too!

Chair Yoga for Adults 3/2 11:15-12 Join us for this relaxing fitness program presented by Lori Schenker.

Come and bring a friend!

Friends of the Library Open House 3/4 12:30-1:30 or 3/18 6-7pm The Friends of Balboa Library is a friendly group of volunteers who support the library in many ways. Come and find out more information about the Friends and becoming a member.

Enjoy light refreshments and enter a raffle to win a lovely plant. Looking forward to seeing you!

Children’s Book Discussion 3/6 3:45-4:45 We will be discussing The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate.

For 3rd -6th Graders.

New Signing Storytime with Ms. Jennifer 3/12 & 3/26 10am Ms. Jennifer uses sign-language to enhance the reading of well-loved children’s picture books and includes singa-longs and bubble time too. For birth – 5 years old with parent/caregiver Balboa Book Club 3/17 11:45am Members will discuss The Book Thief by Markus Zusak Paws to Read 3/10 & 3/24 6:00 pm Therapy dogs provide a positive and fun environment for children to practice reading. Brought to you by Love on a Leash RECURRING EVENTS Mondays: Lego Club 4pm We supply the Legos, you supply the imagination Wednesday: “Stories with Ms. Terri” 6pm Come and listen to some terrific stories and to welcome Ms.Terri our new storyteller. For K-4th graders.

Thursdays: “Preschool Activity” 3/5 & 3/19 10am Fridays: “Wee Reads” Baby & Toddler Storytime First 3 Fridays of the month

10:30am Friday: Drop in & Play 3/27 10:30am For birth -5 y/o.We provide toys and music while you enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where you and your child can play and get to know other families in the community.

Saturdays: “Kids Krafternoons” 1-2pm

NORTH CLAIREMONT BRANCH

4616 CLAIREMONT DRIVE, 92117 (858) 581-9931 SPECIAL EVENTS We celebrate Read Across America in honor of Dr. Suess’ Birthday.

3/2 Stop by for a special treat and activity.

Rose Ritchie Academy of Irish Dance 3/3 6:30pm Step Dancers will perform Jigs, Reels and Hornpipes. Irish Eyes will be smilin’!

Scrabble Night 3/10 5-8pm Do you enjoy playing Scrabble? We are hosting scrabble get togethers.All levels are encouraged to attend, from the casual player to the tournament pro!

Tales for Tails 3/12 4pm Children practice reading to rabbits, guinea pigs, mice or dogs who to hear children reading to them.Ages 4+ iClinic-Friday 3/13 3pm Have questions about your iphone or ipad? Our iexpert will be glad to help.

Book Sale 3/14 9:30-1:30 Get great deals at the Friends Book Sale.

Neuter Scooter Will Visit 3/15.

If your pet is in need of spay or neutering services, call 1-866-SPAY-BUS to make a low-cost appointment and prevent unwanted pets.

Movie Night: 3/18 6pm.

Watch an award winning film at the library. Call for title of film. 858-5819931 Book Club 3/25 6:45 pm.

Members will discuss Plague of Doves by Louise Erdrich Chair Yoga 3/12 & 3/26 9:45am Promotes stretching, strengthening and improves balance, flexibility and mobility. This practice increases circulation, enhances mental clarity and helps reduce stress, calms the nervous system and provides peace and relaxation.Wear comfortable clothes and bring water.

Challenge Island Science Classes 3/3 & 3/24 3:45pm Sign up for our fun hands-on science and engineering class that promotes creative and critical thinking skills. Ages 9+ RECURRING EVENTS Mondays: Sign-A-Story Circle Time 10 am Join us for a super fun performance that combines AmericanSign Language with songs, stories, and engaging toys and props! Suitable for all ages.

Tuesdays: Rhythm & Rhyme for Tots 11:45am A special class for babies and toddlers with children's songs, nursery rhymes, instruments, and books. For ages 2 and under.

Thursdays:Ereader Clinic 12 Noon Drop by our weekly clinic to get personalized assistance with your ereader so you can start downloading library books for your reading pleasure.

Fridays: Toddler & Preschool Storytime Class 10:30am A fun interactive storytime including books, songs, rhymes, movement & bubble time with Miss Karina! For ages 2+ Saturdays: Hopscotch Storytime 2pm Join us for a fun storytime that includes music and movement,and children’s art.

To see more library events, plus other local events, visit the online calendar at www.ClairemontTimes.com

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Linda Vista Skate Park Continued from page 1

line. It was very important the skate park cater to the beginning skater up to the super advanced regardless of your preferred style of skating.

The Linda Vista Skate Park will have it all. It's signature element will be a Full Pipe with a 19ft diameter. It will be one of two you can find in California of that size.Also included will be a 50ft.

World class skateboarding pool with a depth of 10.5ft. Other notable features will be a handicap accessible pedestrian bridge which spans the length of the park, coliseum style seating for spectators to take in the action.

Included in the budget are upgrades to the current bathrooms and lighting which will add to overall security to the Rec. Center. Roughly 50 additional trees will be added with a drainage tube built into the design to recycle the water runoff and redistribute to the surrounding greenery.

I am very proud of this community, proud of our City officials, proud that I was able to see first hand individuals and groups working together.All involved helping to break the stigma behind the sport of skateboarding, long thought to be misfits and vandals with a sole purpose to destroy public property and create chaos. It's not that way anymore, it's my kid, it's your kid, not in some back alley somewhere engaging in activities that require a cloak of darkness. Rather, they are at the local rec center engaging in sport, exercising and forming bonds with other healthy like minded individuals their own age.

The LVSP is a huge milestone for Linda Vista and the City of San Diego. It represents an advancement in understanding and accepting what is a posi-

tive choice by our youth, even if that is different than our own.

At the March Linda Vista Rec. Council meeting an action item for naming the skate park will be voted on honoring the parents of skateboarding legend Tony Hawk.After receiving the blessing from Tony Hawk and his Foundation, the "Frank and Nancy Hawk Skatepark of Linda Vista" I felt was a name that would really memorialize the spirit of our skate park.

The Hawks were very instrumental early on with their service to the local communities of Linda Vista and Kearny Mesa.After retiring from the Navy and his service in WWII, Frank Hawk became active in local youth sports by securing donated land and materials to build local ball fields and then became president of the local Little League.

Frank also established a youth basketball program here in LV and Serra Mesa. Nancy worked at Kearny High School starting in 1965. She was the librarian and worked in the counseling office before becoming secretary to the principal.

Frank later established the National Skateboarding Association, which went on to being the first governing body in skateboarding before his retirement. Its successor organization went on to produce events like the X Games and Dew Tour.Tony Hawk and his foundation donated $40,000 to the Linda Vista Skatepark project and have continued the legacy of service started by his father. It would truly be an honor to have LVSP commemorate the legacies of a husband and wife from our community who have done so much for so many with such integrity.

Stay tuned for more details on the Linda Vista Skate Park in future editions.

Religious Directory Atonement Lutheran Church www.atonementlutheranchurchsd.com 7250 Eckstrom St (Balboa & 805) San Diego, CA 92111 Phone (858) 278-5556 Sunday Worship Time 9 am, Bible Study 10:30 am Clairemont Lutheran Church www.clairemontlc.org 4271 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92117 Sunday Worship Times 8:30, 10:00 (English) & 11:30 am (Spanish) Sunday School for kids 9:45am Holy Cross Lutheran Church www.holycrossword.com 3450 Clairemont Drive, San Diego, CA 92117 Church (858) 273-2886 Sunday Worship 9:00 am Northminster Presbyterian Church www.northminstersandiego.com 4324 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., San Diego, CA 92117 Phone (858) 490-3995 Worship Service and Sunday School Nursery thru 6th Grade at 10am “A Community of Faith, Grace and Service – Making a Difference for Christ” Christian Science Church and Reading Room www.christianscience.com 3410 Clairemont Drive, San Diego, CA 92117 Phone (619) 276-5034 Sunday Worship Service and Sunday School: 10:00 am Wednesday Testimony Meetings: Noon

Joyful Living Spiritual Center www.joyfullivingsandiego.org Services and classes at the LiveWell Center 4425 Bannock Avenue, San Diego 92117 Sunday services and Junior Church at 10 am Are you ready for a happier, healthier and more abundant life?

St. David’s Episcopal Church & Preschool www.saintdavidschurch.com 5050 Milton Street, San Diego CA 92110 Sunday Worship Times: 8:00 am Traditional • 10:30am Contemporary

Clairemont Car Wash 3030 Clairemont Drive Soft Cleaning • Vacuuming Hand Dry Finish Windows Cleaned Inside & Out

8:30 - 5:30 • 7 days

$

6.99

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Regular Price $8.99 With coupon only

St. Mark’s United Methodist Church www.stmarksumcsd.org 3502 Clairemont Drive, San Diego, CA 92117 Church (858) 273-1480 Sunday School & Church Worship 9:30 am For information on promoting your place of worship in the Religious Directory please call or email Chris O’Connell, Publisher (858) 752-9779 chris@clairemonttimes.com

8 • The Clairemont Times • March 2015

Squaremont

By Bill Swank

Have you ever received a St. Patrick’s Day greeting card wishing you the luck of the Irish?

Grinning Leprechauns, rainbows, four-leaf clovers and a pot of gold...

Historically, the luck of the Irish meant bad luck.The Irish are known for blarney, tragedy and drinking.

The Kelly green blood that coursed through the veins of former San Diego Chargers offensive lineman Walter Francis Sweeney was high-octane. He identified himself as CIA: Catholic Irish Alcoholic.

Walt’s father was killed by a drunk driver when he was two. His mother, Mary Ann McCormick Sweeney, cleaned the homes of rich people in Cohasset, Massachusetts to feed her family.A shy and sensitive boy, Sweeney was terrorized and embarrassed by the antics of his older hooligan brothers.Then, like his brothers, he grew up to become a gifted athlete with an inherited taste for John Barleycorn.

Because the legal drinking age in New York was 18, the New England native accepted a football scholarship to Syracuse University. In 1963,All-American Sweeney arrived in San Diego as the Chargers #1 draft pick. His nickname was “Suds”and the fans loved him.

Walter was tall, handsome and humble without pretense, but he also had a short fuse. Football Hall of Famer Merlin Olsen said,“If I had to play against Sweeney every week, I’d rather sell used cars.”

I helped Walt complete his brutally forthright autobiography, Off Guard, which was published in 2012. It is a tragic tale of alcohol, substance abuse and pain.The Chargers were involved in the NFL’s first drug scandal. In the words of sportswriter Jerry Magee,“Walt Sweeney did football and he did drugs, both with abandon. For anyone interested in how football and drugs can relate, here it is.

Sweeney has done life, and not always

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won.”

While making arrangements for a signing at D.G.Wills Books in La Jolla, proprietor Dennis Wills noticed two neighborhood kids sitting on the curb outside his store.They were waiting to be picked up for Pop Warner football practice.

Dennis invited the pair inside to meet the former professional football player.

They walked in and nonchalantly said, “Hi,Walt.”

He replied,“Oh, hi boys.”

How could they possibly know Walt Sweeney? The 10-year-old answered immediately.“We met him in a bar.”

Huh? The boys’ stepmother was a barmaid at Peter D’s, a popular watering hole on Clairemont Mesa Boulevard where Walt was a regular. Over the years, a lot of people knew Walt from the local bar scene.

As a young player, the Irishman’s ambition was to have his picture on display in every bar in San Diego.As a broken-down old-timer, his ambition was to sell his book in every San Diego bar.

In mid-January 2013, Sweeney was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and he died suddenly the day before Super Bowl XLVII.We were going to watch the game at his apartment, but Walt was already gone.

I had planned to raise a glass (or two) in memory of my old friend at Peter D’s and Dan Diego’s on St. Patrick’s Day. Instead, my wife and I will be in Arizona visiting some old friends. I’ve known these guys for over 60 years.We were teammates back in Farmington, Minnesota. One is of Luxembourg ancestry and the other is, like Walt, a Mick.

Both are currently undergoing radiation and chemo for cancer.We won’t be drinking any beer.

For those of us over 70, we realize when these things happen to our friends that our names are on the waiting list.

My advice: Never miss the opportunity to be with your old friends, even if you can’t drink beer.

My toast: May your glass be ever full.

May the roof over your head be always strong and I hope Walt made it to heaven half an hour before the Devil knew he was dead.

My prayer on St. Patrick’s Day is for my friends’ recovery.

Pictured: Bill Swank outside the Buena Vista Garden Apartments on Cowley Way in 1955 with East Clairemont in the distance.

Planning Group Continued from page 1

4) Be the owner, operator, or designee of a local business at a nonresidential real property address in the community planning area 5) Complete the attached Board Member Application The CCPG meets the third Tuesday

of every month (except December and August) at 6:30 p.m. at Cadman Elementary School in Bay Ho. In addition, there are several standing and ad hoc sub-committees of the CCPG that meet periodically throughout the year.

CCPG members are expected to be active and informed participants.

For more information, contact Jeff Barfield, Chair of the CCPG by email: jeffb@mbakerintl.com

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Raise the Balloon Community Survey

Mail back your completed survey to

Raise the Balloon PO Box 17640, San Diego, CA 92177

10 • The Clairemont Times • March 2015

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From the Desk of Chris Cate

by Chris Cate, District 6

on incentive-based increases and is geared toward officers who have On Friday, reached specific experience requireFebruary 6th, it ments. was announced www.sandiego.gov/mayor/pdf/newsrethat the City of leases/2015/news150206.pdf San Diego and the On Monday, March 2nd at 10:00am, San Diego Police I will be presenting $15,070.99 in City Officers funding to three (3) District 6 Association have libraries, which will kick-off Read reached a tentaAcross America Day for our district.

Public libraries are the backbone of every neighborhood and District 6 is home to four (4) City libraries.When we reinvest in our libraries, we reinvigorate our communities.

At our libraries, new parents connect at infant story-times, school-based youth have a safe place to study, adults receive a Teen Iron Chef Competition: Thursday, February 5th (at SDG&E second chance to Innovation Center with Madison High School team) earn a high school tive agreement on a contract extendiploma, and elderly individuals attend sion that will strengthen recruiting events. North Clairemont will receive and retention of San Diego Police $4,162.58. Read Across America Day is Officers. Reaching an agreement with an annual reading motivation and the San Diego Police Officers Association is, without a doubt, a step in the right direction in addressing the recruitment and retention crisis our city faces on a daily basis.We must be a competitive employer to retain the best and brightest in public safety personnel, so our neighborhoods will be safe and secure.

Read Aloud: Monday, February 9th (Lafayette Elementary School The tentative agreewith 1st graders) ment establishes a pay increase of approximately 6.6 percent over a fiveawareness program that calls for chilyear period and complies with dren in every community to celebrate Proposition B’s freeze on pensionable reading on March 2nd, the birthday of pay.The package is structured to focus beloved children’s author, Dr. Seuss.

Motivating children to read is an important factor in student achievement and in creating lifelong successful readers. Research has shown that children who are motivated to read and spend more time reading do better in school. twitdoc.com/3TNL

UCSD Alumni’s Day of Service, Sunday, February 15th (at Ross Elementary)

Email: chriscate@sandiego.gov • Phone: (619) 236-6616 Website: http://www.sandiego.gov/citycouncil/cd6/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/D6ChrisCate Twitter: https://twitter.com/chrisjcate Mailing Address: 202 C Street, 10th Floor, San Diego, CA 92101

Viewpoint

The Politics of Discontent and the Mark of Bigfoot Early endorsements cast pall over political process

by Daniel J. Smiechowsk

Lurking in the political wilderness lies an illusion of sorts, a mystery to most voters, it merits closer scrutiny and deliberation.A type of shell game runs amok, candidates are scurrying about and glad handing themselves to possible elective office.An effort best described as clearing the deck early on the watch of most voters.We, an informed electorate ought to take notice. It’s fast and furious out on the political hinterlands.

Make no mistake, I understand the logic and historicity of early endorsements, insider deals and the power of the purse, but in view of the average voter, this is a big deal. Several weeks ago, it was announced that California Assembly member Toni Atkins had amassed a considerable war chest to be used with due discretion. Shortly thereafter, a young thirty something attorney endorsed by Madame Atkins no less, is on her way to Sacramento as a possible heir apparent. Same position, same war chest, same everything.

As the old saying goes, something stinks in Denmark. It may be legal and ethical, but it just doesn’t feel right.

While Assembly member Adkins may have more do re me stashed away than Carters got liver pills, we as the concerned electorate ought to take

pause in the mark of Bigfoot. I personally have no stomach for insider back room deals from either major political party. Especially eighteen months out from the primary when it appears the intention is to discourage competition.

And discourage they did, with impunity and laughter at those contemplating a run. So much for the man on the street and the politics of winning brick by brick, the old fashioned way as ought to be the case.

Make no mistake, these are good people caught up in a dysfunctional system with its intent to win at any cost.The San Diego County Democratic Central Committee will most likely not vote for this endorsement until early next year.Talk about taking the cart before the horse and not seeing the forest for the trees.

Who are these elites, anyway? These political shenanigans are of particular concern being that so few of our citizens actually casts a ballot. In essence, we are fast becoming a totalitarian state, a closed society and the local chapter of the politburo.When a handful of citizens controls a process that affects millions, we have a problem.

Take notice San Diego.

Be nice, do good deeds and don’t be a stranger as we at The Clairemont Times value your participation.

Daniel J. Smiechowski has been a resident of Clairemont since 1967 and can be reached at smiechowskid@aol.com or 858.220.4613

Clairemont Republican Womens Club Welcoming new members at our annual membership luncheon. It will be held at Tom Ham’s Lighthouse on April 18th. Membership is $30.00 yearly. If a guest joins our club at the luncheon her lunch will be paid for.

Our dynamic speaker will be Jason Roe, political advisor.

Please join us! Call Candy Kish at 858 at 858-541-2460 or Shirley Gilbert at 858-576-1449.

Potholes in your Neighborhood?

Report the Street & Cross Street to City of San Diego Streets & Potholes Division

619 527 7500

The Clairemont Times • March 2015 • 11

www.clairemonttimes.com

When Should You Seek Professional Tax Assistance

by Bob Berg

Not seeking professional tax assistance to discuss current tax-related issues can create problems or cause you to miss out on beneficial options that need to be timely exercised before year-end. Generally, you should call a professional any time you have a substantial change in taxable income or deductions. By doing so, we can advise you about how to optimize your tax liability, avoid or minimize penalties, estimate and pre-pay required taxes, document deductions, and examine and explore tax options.

You should call a professional if you or your spouse: • Receive a large employee bonus or award • Become unemployed • Change employment • Take an unplanned withdrawal from an IRA or other pension plan • Retire or are contemplating retirement • Move or otherwise change your address • Exercise an employee stock option • Have significant stock gains or

losses • Get married • Separate from or divorce your spouse • Sell or exchange a property or business • Experience the death of a spouse during the year • Turn 70 1/2 during the year • Increase your family size through birth or adoption of a child • Start a business or acquire a rental property • Receive a substantial lawsuit settlement or award • Get lucky in a casino, lotto, or game show and receive a W-2G • Plan to donate property worth $5,000 ($500 if a vehicle) or more to a charity • Plan to gift more than $14,000 to any one individual during the year We here at BergTaxes have been doing taxes in the Clairemont/Kearny Mesa area for over 20 years.We offer free consultations regarding any and all tax matters.

For more information, call (858) 279-1040 or email bobberg@bergtaxes.com • www.BergTaxes.com

Community Meetings Open to the Public CLAIREMONT TOWN COUNCIL 3/5/15 • (1st Thurs. of the month) 6:30 PM Cadman Elementary Auditorium 4370 Kamloop Ave, 92117

LINDA VISTA TOWN COUNCIL 3/19/15 • (3rd Thurs. of the month) 6:30 PM Baha’i Faith Center 6545 Alcala Knolls Drive, 92111

CLAIREMONT COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP 3/17/15 • (3rd Tues. of the month) 6:30 PM Cadman Elementary Auditorium 4370 Kamloop Ave, 92117

LINDA VISTA PLANNING GROUP 3/23/15 • (4th Mon. of the month)5:30 PM Linda Vista Public Library 2160 Ulric St, 92111

MARIAN BEAR REC COUNCIL 3/11/15 • (2nd Wed.of the month) 6:30PM LiveWell Senior Center 4425 Bannock Ave, 92117

www.yourpetnannyannie.com

Your Pet Nanny-Annie Love and care when you can’t be there Annie Ekberg Doggie Day Care • Home Away from Home Boarding Daily Visits for Feeding, Walks and more.

Cooing & Gooing Free of Charge Call or Text (619) 871-4422

Bonded & Insured Lic# B2013066417

Olive Breed: F/Pitty DOB: 6/30/14 Place of Birth: San Diego, CA Likes: Being the official Reusable Finds Greeter, people, hugs, rub downs, blankets, large pillows, to cuddle & socks Dislikes: Not being involved in EVERYTHING

12 • The Clairemont Times • March 2015

www.clairemonttimes.com

By Michael Baehr

breaded pork cutlet smothered in caramelized onion gravy ($14.50). I settled on the pop-

The Clairemont Times PO Box 17671 San Diego, CA 92177 (858) 752-9779 Founding Publisher: Chris O’Connell Graphic Designer: Elaine Hall Contributors: Mike Baehr Kevin Casillo Paul Fischer Gary Hyde Daniel J. Smiechowski Bartley Stratton Rob Stone Bill Swank The Clairemont Times is a free publication published each month and circulated throughout the neighborhoods of Clairemont, Linda Vista, Bay Park & Kearny Mesa. Story ideas, advertising & editorial questions can be sent to The Clairemont Times P.O. Box 17671, San Diego, CA 92177 or chris@clairemonttimes.com Copyright ©2011-15 The Clairemont Times/McSierra Publishing. Reuse of material from this edition or past editions is strictly prohibited without permission from the publisher.

The opinions in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of The Clairemont Times/McSierra Publishing but instead, of each individual author/contributor.

The Clairemont Times is proud to partner and contribute with:

Get Your Irish on At Dan Diegos Irish on to celebrate St. Patty’s Day, Dan Diego’s is the spot.And, in the spirit of the season, here’s a fitting Irish proverb to remember:

“A Hundred Thousand Welcomes”

I’ve driven down Morena Blvd a thousand times and I’ve always wondered about the Irish pub called Dan Diegos with the large wooden patio and assorted flags waving in the wind.

So, in honor or Saint Patrick’s Day, I thought it was about time to trot in and check it out. Boy was I glad I did…

When I arrived, I noticed a wooden plaque hanging above the front door with a foreign saying:‘Cead Mile Failte’. I learned that this phrase means ‘a hundred thousand welcomes’ in Gaelic. This proverb couldn’t be more accurate about this charming pub in the Morena District.

Inside, it was clear that the atmosphere is distinctly Irish, complete with an Irish jig playing in the background.

ular fish and chips ($12.50), paired with a light, crisp and ultra refreshing Kronenbourg beer ($6). My dish arrived with a generous mound of fat, home-style fries topped with three pieces of flaky and delicious fish covered in a beer-type batter (of course).

The house made tartar sauce was rich and zesty, a perfect counterpart to the delicate fish. I was in Irish heaven with all this food!

“May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow, And may trouble avoid you wherever you go.”

Dan Diegos Opened about two 2415 Morena Blvd. San Diego, years ago, Dan Diegos CA 92110 has enjoyed a grow(619) 276-2100 ing crowd of regulars www.dandiegos.com and visitors alike. The Closed on Tuesdays (We are brunch is extremely open of course on Tuesday, March popular with items 17th, St. Patrick’s Day) See page 4 including soda bread beignets with Jameson whiskey ABOUT CLAIREMONT’S CHOWHOUND: caramel sauce ($8), Clairemont Chowhound Michael Baehr is a biscuits and country home cook and self-proclaimed foodie. He loves sampling new eateries and welcomes sausage gravy called your suggestions for local restaurants, fast “Happy” ($6), Irish food and specialty markets to review. Email: bangers and mash ClairemontChowhound@ClairemontTimes.com ($10), and fried chicken and waffles ($10).

And of course, no Bread pudding covered in whiskey caramel sauce meal at Dan Diegos is complete without a There is ample outdoor seating on the helping of their large wooden patio or inside the pub famous bread pudding either in the dining area or along the covered in whiskey large, L-shaped bar. I took a seat at the caramel sauce ($6). bar and soaked in the selection of To quench your thirst, 150+ exotic beers and 18 draught you can wash it all beers. As I perused the menu, I disdown with a mimosa, covered that the selection of Irish, any craft or macro German and traditional English food is beer your heart almost as extensive as the list of beers. desires or one of the I was told that everything is made daily coffee specials. fresh in house from the ground meat to the homemade tartar sauce. My Whether you’re in server Sarah reviewed the house search of a satisfying favorites, including the Irish Reuben meal, an interesting served on Irish soda bread ($11.50), brunch spot, or you Belgium steamed mussels ($15), and just want to get your Dan Diegos signature fish & chips Munchner Schnitzel, a pan-seared

The Clairemont Times • March 2015 • 13

www.clairemonttimes.com

Gardena Ave. Hike

Tecolote Nature Center 5180 Tecolote Road San Diego, CA. 92110 858-581-9959

by Trent Robertson

The Tecolote Canyon Interpretive Group offers guided nature walks from various entrances to Tecolote Canyon Natural Park. On Saturday, March 21st, at 9:00 a.m. we will be leading a hike from the Gardena Avenue. entrance and exploring a unique portion of the canyon featuring one of the most pristine examples of coastal sage scrub vegetation in the city of San Diego.

The trail follows an area of riparian vegetation for a short while and then ascends the canyon wall to reach a flat mesa that features a panoramic view of the canyon and USD to the south. Because of the mesa top’s southern exposure it is covered with coastal sage scrub vegetation.This vegetation type formerly covered large portions of coastal southern California, but due to development it is estimated that only 10% remains.

The trail meanders south along the canyon rim and eventually loops back down to the canyon bottom and the trailhead at Gardena Avenue.

The trail is less than a mile in length, but it can be rather steep in sections.

If it rains on, or shortly before, the

All activities start at the nature center except for the Gardena Avenue neighborhood hike. Nature Center parking is limited during baseball season.

Overflow parking may be available for trail users - see staff for details.

date of this hike the hike may be cancelled due to slippery and potentially hazardous conditions.

If you would like to learn more about one of San Diego’s unique environments, we invite you to join us for a very interesting hike. Recent rains have helped to make the vegetation lush and many species of plants are blooming early to take advantage of the additional moisture.

We will meet at the east end of Gardena Ave. by the signed entrance to Tecolote Canyon.There are no facilities at this neighborhood entrance and parking is on the street. Please bring water, sunscreen and sturdy hiking or walking shoes. For more information, contact the Tecolote Nature Center at 858-581-9959.

Native Plants in the Garden?

Yes! Any style you want - not just the wild look!

by Susan Lewitt and Tish Berg

Is your garden neatly manicured, wild, or perhaps a work in progress?

Any garden can be converted into a native garden, allowing you to conserve water and attract wildlife. Maybe you want a formal English garden or a Japanese Garden. Natives can do that.

Not sure where to start? The best place to start is by making a scale drawing of your space, and then visit some of the many places you can see the natives. Tecolote Nature Canyon Nature Park is a great place to stroll through and observe natives in their natural environment. Old Town has a charming native garden across from the Transit Center, next to the McCoy house. Old Town is one of two starting points for the California Native Plant Society’s Garden Native Tour on March 28 and 29.The Garden Native Tour will feature public and private gardens around the cities of San Diego and Poway, including five in the Clairemont/University City/Tierrasanta area.

Some features of these gardens are edible gardens, artwork and hardscape from repurposed materials, rain bar-

Photo by James Soe Nyun

rels, bioswales, graywater systems, turf replacement and Solar panels.These gardens will give you ideas on how to incorporate some really useful and beautiful concepts into your own garden.

While waiting for the I recommend a little research. One book I like is by Greg Rubin & Lucy Warren, The California Native Landscape: The Homeowner’s Design Guide to Restoring Its Beauty and Balance, which is aimed at San Diego. Another good read is Landscaping with Native Plants of Southern California by George Oxford Miller.

Tour Information: Garden Native Tour, Saturday, March 28 through Sunday, March 29, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm each day.Website: http://www.gardennative.org

Sunday, March 1 8:00 am California Native Plant Society Walk Join a CNPS member on a guided walk to learn about the plants that thrive in Tecolote Canyon Saturday, March 21 9:00-11:00 am Weed Warriors – Volunteer Project Clean up the canyon with a Park Ranger.Wear sturdy shoes and long pants Gloves and tools provided Saturday, March 21 9:00-11:00 am Gardena Avenue Nature Hike We will meet at the east end of Gardena Avenue by the signed entrance to Tecolote Canyon.There are no facilities at this neighborhood entrance and parking is on the street Saturday, March 28 8:00 am Audubon Society Birding Walk All experience levels welcome! *SAVE THE DATE – THURSDAY, APRIL 2* Ranger led hike followed by spring break nature crafts and activities Call the nature center for details Updated schedules are posted at www.meetup.com/Friends of Tecolote Canyon Natural Park and Nature Center. Like us on Facebook

Variety is the Spice of Life and Orchids Too!

by Susan Lewitt and Bruce Berg

In March, you will see many dazzling orchids at the San Diego County Orchid Society’s (SDCOS) spring show. (Details follow) Many local and international growers work to bring out new varieties of orchids through hybridizing. In the plant world, it’s possible to create viable offspring by crossing species of different geneses and the results are amazing.There are Epidendrums and Cattleyas, but also Epi-Cats that exhibit pleasing characteristics of both.Another striking cross, Odontobrassia, is a very attractive cross between Odontoglossum and Brassia.

Even without the hybrids, there is much variety making the orchid family the 2nd biggest flowering plant group.

With all the new species that have been discovered, it may surpass the Aster family, which is thought to be the biggest group. Preserving these natural species, through worldwide orchid conservation is one of SDCOS’s goals.

Where are orchids found? They are found all over, from Alaska to Hawaii

Photos by Bruce Berg

and on every continent with the exception of Antarctica.There are very few places that don’t have orchids of one sort or another.The ones found in the wild are called species.We even have some petite beauties hidden away in San Diego County, like the Stream Orchid (Epipactis gigantea) which grows in riparian areas, even in the desert, and the Rein orchid (Piperia cooperi and P. leptopetala). Hikes have been led by SDCOS to nearby and remote areas around San Diego to find these natives. Orchids are visited periodically by our hiking group to check on survival rates and to educate members on our local populations.

Come see these amazing plants, individually displayed, and in garden like settings, at SDCOS’s Spring Orchid Show and Sale, March 27-29 at the Scottish Rite Center. There will be talks and some interactive displays. Please check our website for details and a discount coupon. (www.sdorchids.com).

14 • The Clairemont Times • March 2015

www.clairemonttimes.com

Beyond Silent Walls

by Kevin Casillo

I have decided in light of global tragedies, you will allow me the opportunity to express a few paragraphs that I know could never heal this crazy world. But perhaps help heal the hearts of many suffering from global strife. In my 40 some odd working years I have found reinventing myself every five or 6 years has fueled my personal and professional growth. Along the way I have had the most extraordinary opportunities to meet some of the most successful people. By success I am not referring to financial wealth, although a few have been extremely, well let’s just say comfortable.

Through these people I recognized they all had something more important to give, it is knowledge. For me and hopefully you as well, knowledge has always been the source of strength and drive. No matter who we meet along the way on this amazing journey called life, we can’t help but learn something from everyone we meet. For this story I am referring to the life long inspiration I have obtained through silent voices.

I remember with great pride time spent as a young adult working in what most of you might describe as the most disturbing environment, was actually my best life experience. It was my second job right out of high school, a state run mental health facility in Massachusetts. One of those Gothic, Romanesque style buildings with granite block foundations with Victorian turrets tucked and hidden away on 50 acres of manicured grounds. The property with a half mile drive through winding paved roads lined with 200 year old Oak Trees caressed by miles of stone walls built by patients in the mid 1800’s.

The huge clock tower still stands today, unfortunately most of the old buildings, like the patients I came to know and love are gone, but never to be forgotten.

This job changed my life and how I

would view people for as long as I remain. If you have had the good fortune to look into the warm, caring eyes of someone with Down Syndrome, or felt the pain of a Mother’s broken heart upon learning her teenage son has died from a selfinflicted wound you know of what I speak. If you have looked into the eyes of a now catatonic frail individual completely dependent on you for food, bathing and the simple human touch, you know what I speak. They manage a smile, their eyes begin to sparkle in your presence a faint acknowledgment and appreciation, or so we like to believe. Many, confined to an institution for more than 30 years, no longer or perhaps never visited by family, someone’s son or daughter bedridden for decades is entrusted to you. As I look into their time honored brow and worn, troubled faces I silently wonder where their thoughts might be found.Are their thoughts that of home, or perhaps playing in a field of tall summer grass? I can’t help asking what crime rewards such a lifetime punishment.

What I do know and what these people have taught me is this; if you are willing to open your mind and allow yourself to listen from the heart, they can teach us all and teach us well. Every human being, no matter how sick or socially unacceptable or disfigured is no less precious or valuable than our own self-worth. For in that disfigured life is the capability to love, care for and to nurture. So it is our obligation that we return that lesson. Not just for today or this month, but for all time.

I know this may be a bit too philosophical for this newspaper, but this journey we are all on leads us down a path, a direction we know very little about. We think we’re planning and cheating time, but we’re not. It’s up to each of us to let go of the anger and hatred, we must guide ourselves and the next generation to live in solidarity and without harm.

The Clairemont Times • March 2015 • 15

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The Music Business

by Gary Hyde

I have been getting some questions lately about what I do at Pacific Records. Besides being a producer and songwriter for artists on the label I am the head of A/R.A/R is a term from the old days in the music business that stands for Artist and Repertoire.What I do is look for talented artists and bands, listen to their material, talk to them about what they’re trying to do with their careers and then possibly signing them to the label.

After an artist or band is signed to Pacific Records then I act as a liaison between them and the record label.

When it’s time to record I help with, writing or finding material, musicians, and other things in the recording process. One thing I have been doing for many years and I do a lot of at Pacific Records is produce artists’ vocals.This is a specialty of mine that I have quite a bit of experience doing and I have gotten pretty good at. Most artists tell me I have produced the best vocals on them, they have ever laid down.

Another question from people is where can I get real help getting into the music business? Well, it just so happens I know where you can get help. Go to http://www.pacificrecords.com and click on the “recording studio” tab.There you will find all the services you could need relating

to music.

I, along with award winning producer/songwriter Pat Pickslay and engineer extraordinaire Drake Williams have helped many people at all levels of their careers, in reaching their musical goals. Some of the things (but not all) we do are, recording, songwriting, publishing, studio musicians, and mentoring people in all phases of the music business. If you are interested email me at gary@pacificrecords.com or call us at 858-3241820.

One more question I’ve been getting is, what’s the most important thing in trying to get somewhere in the industry? You need to be honest with yourself.You have to realize what you do well and what you don’t.Very few people can do it all. Find great tunes anywhere, they’re out there. If you need a producer, find one. If you need studio musicians, get them. Most importantly, know when you need to get help with your music.

Last but not least this month, I would like to congratulate my beautiful granddaughter Jordan on her spectacular performances, in her school talent show. She sang, danced and performed comedy. Great job Jordan I am very proud of you.

So come on, let’s talk music, write to me at gary@clairemonttimes.com I want to hear from you.Talk to you next month.

For more news and information visit: www.clairemonttimes.com

The San Diego Museum of Art Celebrates Art Alive 2015 The San Diego Museum of Art will be transformed into a gorgeous vision of art and flowers as more than 100 floral designers bring the Museum’s renowned Permanent Collection to life during the 34th annual Art Alive.

The Museum’s signature fundraiser and a highly anticipated San Diego tradition,Art Alive 2015 showcases exquisite floral displays infused with three days of celebrations from April 24-26, 2015.

This year,Art Alive will honor the 100th anniversary of Balboa Park.To celebrate this major milestone, René van Rems of René van Rems International will return for his seventh year as the Rotunda Designer.

Informed by historic archives from 1915, van Rems will transform the Museum’s central Rotunda into a lush and beautiful floral design and art experience reflective of the Victorian era in Europe and the early days in San Diego. His design will incorporate California-grown flowers such as white hydrangeas, trumpet lilies, carnations, flowering herbs, and more.An internationally known floral artist from Amsterdam, van Rems has been involved with Art Alive since its inception and last served as the Rotunda Designer in 2011.

This year’s floral exhibition will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday,April 24, through Sunday,April 26. General admission is free for members, $20 for nonmembers, and free for children age 6 and under. In addition to viewing the annual floral exhibition during Museum hours,Art Alive 2015 offers three full days of events, activities, and celebrations featuring: BLOOM BASH Friday,April 24, 7:00 p.m. – Midnight. For the second year in a row,Art Alive will kick off with the Bloom Bash Opening Celebration.

Featuring and inspired by Modern Hieroglyphics of Chor Boogie’s eclectic artwork, this funky, graffiti-themed party features culinary creations from San Diego’s top restaurants and chefs, floral-infused Patron cocktails, live music, interactive entertainment, and an exclusive afterhours viewing of this year’s floral exhibition.Tickets to the Bloom Bash are $200 for members

and $250 for nonmembers.

GARDEN OF ACTIVITIES Saturday,April 25 and Sunday,April 26, Noon – 4:00 p.m. Great for families, the Garden of Activities features a Museum-wide flower hunt, a children’s reading area complete with nature-inspired stories, and a variety of floral-themed projects designed for children and families to enjoy together.Activities are free after Art Alive floral exhibition general admission.

FLORAL LECTURE Saturday,April 25, 10:00 a.m. From Fabergé to Cartier, independent curator and Fabergé expert Timothy Adams will speak on the influence of flowers and nature on goldsmiths from the turn of the 20th century to present.Adams is Curatorial Consultant for the Decorative Arts department at the Bowers Museum, and Fabergé Historian for the Museum’s 1989 Fabergé:The Imperial Eggs exhibition.Tickets to this annual presentation are $15 for members and $25 for nonmembers.

FLORAL MASTERCLASS Sunday,April 26, 10:00 a.m. Inspired

by Balboa Park’s Centennial, the 2015 Floral Masterclass takes inspiration from the California garden-style arrangements in fashion at the time.

Workshop attendees will create and take home an elegant arrangement pairing traditional European elements with a California twist. Designed for all levels of experience, this workshop is led by Sharon Mintz, 2007 Rotunda Designer, 15-year Art Alive legacy designer, and designer at San Diego’s Organic Elements.Tickets are $100 members, $125 for nonmembers, and include a continental breakfast.

ABOUT ART ALIVE As the Museum’s largest annual fundraiser,Art Alive highlights its Permanent Collection to provide critical support for education, outreach programs and special exhibitions yearround. For more information or to make a donation in support of this San Diego tradition, call the Art Alive Hotline at 619-696-1999, or contact the Museum at artalive@sdmart.org.

Tickets are also available online at SDMArt.org/ArtAlive2015.

16 • The Clairemont Times • March 2015

www.clairemonttimes.com

The Rob Stone Basketball Scouting Report

USD Toreros Senior Guard Johnny Dee Ready for the Next Level Johnny Dee is a six-foot, 185-pound senior guard for the University of San Diego (USD) Toreros men’s basketball team and is the program’s all-time leading scorer.

Dee, a former walk-on, demonstrates a nice stroke for USD from the outside, whether he is raining down jump shots and three-point bombs on opposing defenders or just tickling the twine from the free throw line.

He has a natural knack for scoring the ball in a variety of ways, including off of screens set by his Toreros teammates as well as shooting the ball over the outstretched arms of defenders.

Dee has gotten better at driving the ball in traffic, into the lane, and getting to the foul line, where he led NCCA Division I players in free throw percentage by successfully converting 95% (120 out of 127) last season.

He has improved on his ball-handling skills and at creating his own

shot off the dribble.

Dee uses his body and frame to impose and cause contact around the basket and finish countless tough shots at the rim.

With his strong work ethic and competitiveness, he is both physically and mentally ready to play at the next level.

Recently, Dee has helped to lead USD with 18, 11, 20, 15, and 21 points, respectively, in victories versus BYU (77-74), Santa Clara (69-64), San Francisco (77-69), Pepperdine (72-50), and Pacific (68-48).

Rob Stone is a life-long resident of the Clairemont Mesa/Kearny Mesa area and is also a certified talent scout through Sports Management Worldwide.

Rob has been working with and helping to assist sports agents in getting their clients signed to contracts. If you would like a professional scouting report written up on your favorite athlete, you can feel free to contact Mr. Stone directly. He may be reached at: 1 (619) 241-6516, rstone@smww.com, Sportsguyrob@att.net, http://www.smwwscout.com/scout/robstone, or http://www.rsscouting.blogspot.com.

Toler Elementary Literacy Night Join us as students, families, and Clairemont community members come together to celebrate literature on March 19 from 5:30 - 7:30 pm.

The featured speaker is Melissa Wiley, author of more than a dozen books for children and teens. One of her books, Inch and Roly and the Sunny Day Scare is a finalist in the CYBIL Awards Easy Reader Category.

She has also written Inch and Roly Make A Wish, Fox and Crow Are Not Friends, Prarie Thief, and the Martha and Charlotte Little House Books. She will have some of her books available for purchase and signing after the pro-

gram.

Toler’s own 5th graders will be performing their wax museum and will be selling pizza starting at 5:30. In addition,Toler’s partner in education, the Clairemont Library will be represented and there will be a Scholastic Book Fair to benefit the Toler Library.

There will also be a raffle to win prizes and all students in attendance will receive giveaways. Mark your calendars for this exciting evening.

Toler Elementary is located at 3350 Baker Street. Questions? Call Tami Kindig in the Toler Library at (858)273-0294.

Cadman Elementary to Host Free E-Waste Collection Save the Date & Plan to Drop off Your Old Electronics on April 11th Technology’s blistering pace is leaving a hazardous byproduct in its wake: E-waste. On April 11th, 2015 Cadman Elementary PTA will be teaming up with All Green Electronics Recycling to host an E-waste recycling collection from 10:00am - 2:00pm at 4370 Kamloop Ave, San Diego, CA 92117.

The event is free and open to the public and anyone who is interested in disposing their E-waste in a safe and secure environment.

What is E-waste? That dated laptop in your hall closet, that VCR you haven’t used since you got the new DVD player, the dust-covered monitor in your garage, or basically anything

with a plug that is unused, obsolete or non-working.All Green Electronics Recycling accepts computers, monitors, printers,TVs,VCRs, stereos, and other electronic equipment--anything with a plug and circuit board will be accepted. FURNITURE, HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE OR KITCHEN APPLIANCES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. E-waste contains heavy metals such as lead, mercury, chromium, cadmium, and zinc that contaminate our soil and water, and is responsible for 70 percent of all heavy metals found in landfills today.A recent report by the Environmental Protection Agency says E-waste in landfills will grow four-fold over the next five years.

For more information, please visit www.allgreenrecycling.com

Charity Golf Tournament Supporting Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America Hosted by University of San Diego MBA Veterans Organization Support Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) by participating in the University of San Diego MBA Veterans Organization’s Charity Golf Tournament held at the beautiful Riverwalk Golf Course in Mission Valley.

Friday, March 27 from 1:00-5:30pm All proceeds and donations will go to IAVA, benefiting wounded warriors of the armed services.

For tickets, donations or sponsorship, contact Paul Pintek: usdmvo@gmail.com or call 858.242.8980. $90 ticket gets you: • 18 holes of golf • BBQ dinner at the clubhouse • A golf cart • Chance to win hundreds of dollars in prizes! Callaway Golf generously donated over $500 of golf gear and

other prizes for contests such as longest drive, closest to the pin, and much more Networking opportunity with corporate recruiters and business leaders The University of San Diego MBA Veterans Organization (MVO) consists of MBA students who are currently serving on active duty, in the reserves, and veterans who have transitioned into the civilian sector. We are proud of our service to our country and would like to give back to the community. Please join us to support this event.

This tournament is a great opportunity for San Diegans, local military/veterans, and businesspeople to come together, have fun, network, and most importantly raise $20K for Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, a highly rated non-profit that supports veterans and their families.

Pop Warner at Clairemont High Seeking Board Members The Chiefs are returning to Clairemont in the form of the Pop Warner Program. The team will call Clairemont High School its home field.

We are currently in search of board members consisting of: President,Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer.

These are crucial positions that will determine the programs future as to which team levels we will field in 2015: Flag (ages 5-7),

Mighty Mites (ages 7/8/9), Jr. Pee Wee (ages 8/9/10), Pee Wee (ages 9/10/11), Jr. Midget (ages 11/12/13), and Unlimited (ages 1114).

Anyone interested in becoming a board member and beginning this long and exciting journey please contact Coach Diaz at mdiaz5@sandi.net as soon as possible with the interested cabinet position. No position is guaranteed at this time.

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www.clairemonttimes.com

Captain’s Corner Sponsored by Outer Limits Charters

A Bat? Yes a Bat.

by Captain Paul Fischer

It is a few hours before we are scheduled to depart on a fishing trip with 22 anglers out to Cortez Bank 100 miles west of San Diego. I write this in the wheelhouse of the Outer Limits reflecting on how fast the last 18 years on this boat have gone. I still consider myself young, but with my 35th birthday next week, a few gray hairs popping up and a 4 month old baby girl at home, I have found myself remembering my past and how I got to where I am today.

On my second trip as Captain I was only 20 years old.We were just finishing up our first day of a two day trip about 70 miles southwest of San Diego and had a fairly good day catching about 80 albacore tuna. It was about 7:45 at night and the crew was washing down the deck of the boat as we just had a stop for a few more fish.

The weather was flat calm with a slight offshore breeze. I had decided to keep the boat drifting as the weather was so nice and in the wheelhouse with me was a 13 year old boy and his father who had come out with us a few times before. What happened next is almost unbelievable.

Out of nowhere what appeared to be a small bird flew into the wheelhouse window.The boy jumped outside to see what it was and starts yelling “hey, I found a bat!” He asks his dad what he should do with it and his dad tells him to pick it up and show everyone else on the boat the bat.

Before I could even say a word, this kid had scooped up the bat and had it in his hand.The bat finally starts to squirm after the impact with the window and the next thing I knew the Dad was screaming that the bat has bitten his son, who is still holding the bat, and he’s going to have to get rabies shots. Sure enough the kid had two puncture marks in his finger.We were a 7 hour boat ride away from the hospital and on the first day of the

trip. I calmed down the now fearful dad by grabbing an empty box and having his son place the bat in the box so the bat can get tested for rabies rather than having his son go through all those shots.

Dinner was ready at that time, so I cleaned the bat bite area, gave him a band aid and sent them down for dinner.About 1 hour later the night captain woke up and went into the wheelhouse. He saw the box and for whatever reason opened the lid and screamed as the bat flew out of the box and wheelhouse and landed on the deck. I heard the scream and rushed up from the galley just in time to see the bat floating down the deck as the crew had moved the wash down hose to that side.The bat floated down the deck to a freeing port and was washed right off the boat. I ran over to the rail with the night captain and a blue shark that had been circling the boat happened to be right there, at that moment and in the blink of an eye the shark ate the bat.

The boy and his father went to the hospital when the boat got in and he did receive multiple shots into the abdomen. Since he had to receive medical attention I had to fill out my first accident report for the Coast Guard and received a call from the commander.“Mr. Fischer, you want me to believe that a bat was flying around in the middle of the ocean, bit a person, was placed in a box for testing, escaped the box, was washed down the deck, and then eaten by a shark?”

“Yes, a bat.”

I could not make up a story like this if I tried.

For more information on Outer Limits Sportfishing visit u at www.OuterLimit.net or call us at (619) 757-7940

Opening Day for Clairemont Hilltoppers Little League Saturday, March 7 marks the beginning of the 59th season of Clairemont Hilltoppers Little League at Cadman Park.

As both the oldest youth sports organization in Clairemont, and the largest youth sports organization serving only Clairemont residents,

Clairemont Hilltoppers continues to pride itself on offering a family-based, community-oriented program for the kids of our neighborhoods.

Our Opening Day will, as always, feature lots of great food, music, pageantry, and tons and tons of baseball.

Opening Ceremonies begin at 9 a.m.,

with special guests, pageantry and fun surprises. Following the ceremonies, all 32 of our 2015 teams will be in action, with our fields full of wall-to-wall baseball until late afternoon.

We're even hoping to be featured once again on KUSI-TV's Good Morning San Diego, live from our park.

We will be serving delicious meals from Chicken Charlies during the day, and there will be lots of other treats to enjoy, including Jersey Mike's sandwiches, kettle corn, ice cream and much more. Come down and make a day of it with the kids and families of Clairemont Hilltoppers!

18 • The Clairemont Times • March 2015

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The Clairemont Times • March 2015 • 19

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Police Blotter Residential Burglary 3400 Waco St. Battery 4200 Tolowa St. Vehicle Break-In 4100 Mt. Alifan Vehicle Break-In 5200 Mt. Etna Dr. Fraud 4100 Balboa Way Fraud 3000 Osceola Ave. Residential Burglary 5000 San Aquario Dr. Fraud 4600 Mt. Gaywas Dr. Assault 4800 Genesee Ave.

Commercial Burglary 4600 Clairemont Mesa Ave. Residential Burglary 3200 Townser St. Theft 4700 Mt. Abernathy Ave. Commercial Burglary 5600 Balboa Ave. Vehicle Theft 4000 Avati Dr. Battery 4800 Jumano Ave. Commercial Burglary 4300 Genesee Ave. Residential Burglary 3500 Ottawa Ave. Commercial Burglary 6000 Mt. Alifan Dr. Residential Burglary 2000 Burton St. Vehicle Break-In 3700 Moraga Ave.

Vehicle Break-In 4500 Barnhurst Pl. Vehicle Break-In 5100 Biltmore St. Vehicle Break-In 3100 Fryden Ct. Vandalism 5600 Balboa Ave. Vehicle Theft 2200 Judson St. Assault 6900 Linda Vista Rd. Vehicle Theft 2000 Westinghouse St. Residential Burglary 5100 Canosa Ave. Vehicle Break-In 4600 De Soto St. Vehicle Theft 2800 Whitney St. Fraud 6600 Salizar St.

Vehicle Break-in 5600 Balboa Ave. Commercial Burglary 4300 Moraga Ave. Battery 5000 Conrad Ave. Commercial Burglary 3600 Kearney Villa Rd. Vehicle Break-In 3500 Angelucci St. Fraud 6200 Beadnell Way Vehicle Break-In 6000 Chandler Dr. Vehicle Theft 4000 Mt. Barnard Ave. Vehicle Theft 3600 Mt. Ariane Dr. Battery 3000 Clairemont Dr. Commercial Burglary 3900 Clairemont Dr.

relevant and current play reveals the strength of humanity, and faith these women possess while they face adversity in the desert. Runs March 6 to 15, Fri. and Sat. 8 p.m. Sun. 7 p.m. at the Apolliad Theatre. $10 General admission. 619-3882621 or www.sdmesa.edu/drama.

• Cultural Legacies African Art Exhibit.

The new exhibit at the African Art Glass Gallery at Mesa College honors the

respect of families and cultural legacies and features more than 20 treasures from the African Art Collection at Mesa College. 1st Floor LRC (Building LR), Mesa College. 7:00 am - 10:00 pm (MondayThurs.), 7:00 am - 5:00 pm (Friday), Closed Saturday, Sunday and Holidays. Free. More information: 619-388-3385 • Spring Athletics: For a complete list of athletic events, please visit www.gomesa.edu/athletics, visit www.gosdmesa.com.

• Parking information is available at www.sdmesa.edu/parking. For all Mesa events, see www.sdmesa.edu/events.

it". It was a valid eye opening point. Are we in fact dictating what goes where and why based on transients?

Other comments from the CCPG and public included; what about the existing 7-11 less than a mile away travelling up Clairemont Drive, or the car wash even closer in the same direction. Concerns about churches and a day care were also mentioned.

While all of those concerns were voiced the fact is the property is zoned for what was being presented. And the same CUP was approved 6 plus years ago.

An implication was made by the applicant if the beer & wine sales was not going to happen or be recommended they may exercise an escape clause.

In the end it was an 8-2 vote in favor of allowing the CUP of Beer and Wine

Sales.

With the vote CCPG did recommend some stipulations such as no alcohol sales after midnight (instead of the usual 2 am), no extreme signage on the storefront windows promoting alcohol sales, no single sales IE no selling of one can of beer.

In the end the applicant got what they were seeking an approved recommendation from the CCPG. Who knows how long the lot will remain in the same condition, but it took one step closer to being developed. Stay tuned.

And as always, stay tuned for what is coming down the pike for Morena Blvd, the Bay View Lot, the Trolley, Keils Shopping Center and more.

It is never a dull moment at the CCPG stop by on St. Patrick's Day for the next meeting 6:30 Cadman Elementary.

March Happenings on the Mesa Spring kicks off one the busiest months at Mesa College. President Pamela Luster invites you to join the many activities on the Mesa that are open to the public.

• Parent Nights for Incoming Students. Come and learn what Mesa College can offer your student. Mesa College Parent Information Nights include information on financial aid and programs and services that can help your student succeed. English (March 19 and 23) and Spanish sessions (March 5,April 9, and May 7). RSVP English: http://mesacollegeparentnight.eventbrite .com; Spanish: http://mesacollegenochedeinformacion.eventbrite.com Or, call 619-388-2230.

• Fashion REDUX! 2015.The San Diego History Center’s annual showcases the work of Mesa College Fashion Program students.The student designs are based on the Beautiful Era, the years between 1900 and the beginning of World War I, drawing inspiration from the period historic garments held in the Center's Historic Clothing and Textiles

Collection.The ensembles of these four student finalists are on view at the History Center through Sunday, March 8, 2015. Don’t miss the Finale Party on Friday, March 6th featuring live models, talk by Prof. Susan Lazear, people’s choice awards, and light refreshments.

Tickets $10 in advance or at the door. www.sandiegohistory.org. 619-232-6203, ext. 129.

• Wednesday Music Recitals. Free concerts features: March 4:“Latin Jazz” Jaeryoung Lee Trio with Bob Boss and N Scott Robinson; March 11:“Electronics” with Bob Kostland and Friends, March 18:“Jazz”Blurring the Edges; and March 25 “Classical Concert”with the San Diego Opera Choristers. Free.Wed., 1-2 pm, seating at 12:45. C-100 Building, Rm. 119.

Park in visitor parking near the flagpole; pay at parking permit machine or through the MobileNow app.

• Mesa College Theatre Company Presents “No Roosters in the Desert,” by San Diego Playwright Kara Hartzler.

Based on actual interviews of women who illegally crossed the U.S border, this

Update on the Vacant Lot at Denver and Clairemont Intersection The February Clairemont Community Planning Group (CCPG) Meeting had a full agenda and as always there was a lot of great useful information discussed.

Last month I published and asked, Is a 7-11/Carwash the best use of this high visibility location?

The attorney who represents the proposed applicant (7-11) presented again at the February meeting.

The issue is and was if the CCPG would give a blessing (approve) beer and wine sales via a Conditional Use Permit (CUP).

Keep in mind it is not the CCPG who make the final call they are an advisory group who vote yay or nay on many

neighborhood issues which in turn is reported to the suits downtown. A common misconception is that local planning groups are the decision makers, nothing could be further from the truth.

Concerns and questions were raised by the CCPG as well as from the public.

What hours will alcohol be sold? Were "singles" going to be sold? What kind of window advertising would be promoting beer and wine specials?

An underlying tone throughout the presentation was that this new potential 7-11 would be a haven for transients to gather, hang out, etc. A public comment then put it in perspective "we are giving transients way too much power or cred-

Vehicle Theft 5100 Canosa Ave. Residential Burglary 4400 Conrad Ave. Vehicle Theft 4200 Clairemont Mesa Blvd.

Vehicle Theft 2100 Burroughs St. Residential Burglary 3500 Burbank Ct. Battery 3200 Armstrong St. Vehicle Break-In 5000 Diane Ave. Vehicle Break-In 3000 Cowley Way Vehicle Break-In 4100 Mt. Alvertine Ave. Vandalism 2400 Meadow Lark Dr.

20 • The Clairemont Times • March 2015

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