Clairemont Times November 2014 by Clairemont Times

The

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

V4.E11

News of the Neighborhoods

Mesa College “Fall Fest” to Benefit Student Veterans Events include a run/walks and street fair benefiting student veterans San Diego Mesa College is going all-out for veterans this Veterans Day Weekend with Fall Fest events benefiting the 2,000 student veterans who attend Mesa College each semester.The day begins with a 5K run/walk, followed by a community street fair, and the college’s homecoming football game, on Saturday, November 8. The day kicks off with an 8 a.m. morning Fall Fest Run, benefiting student veterans.The race is open to everyone. Runners and teams can sign up for the 5K race, a one mile run/walk, or the halfmile for disabled racers.The track runs through the Mesa College campus in Kearny Mesa. Registration fees range from $20$30, with free run t-shirts (while they last) and discounted rates for those who register by Nov. 6 at mesacollegefunrun.eventbrite.com The free community street fair, also benefiting student veterans, runs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and features booths by student groups and clubs, artisans, and community vendors. Bands and musicians will entertain fair-goers with live music, and visitors can purchase items, including food prepared by Mesa’s culinary students and local

vendors.Admission is free; vendors, artisans and entrepreneurs are welcome to host a booth. “Mesa College has one of the largest student veterans population in the state and nation,” noted Dr. Pamela T. Luster, president.The funds raised through Fall Fest will help us to build an emergency fund for student veterans and to further support their unique needs as they transition to campus life.” The homecoming football game begins at 1 pm, with the Mesa College Olympians hosting the El Camino Compton College Tartars. Half-time homecoming festivities include patriotic songs sung by the Mesa Vocal Ensemble; the Kearny High School Color Guard, and the popular t-shirt toss. Game fees are: $5 students/faculty/staff, children under 12 years $2; $7 general admission. For details see: http://www.sdmesa.edu/news/eve nts/fall-fest/. Call Anne Zacovic to reserve a booth and for more information at 619-388-2285 or emailazacovic@sdccd.edu . Parking is free or take MTS Routes 41 and 44.

NOVEMBER 2014

Drought Alert: Mandatory Water User Restrictions Effective November 1, 2014 Water Only 3 Assigned Days Per Week Residences with odd-numbered addresses Water ONLY on Sundays,Tuesdays & Thursdays Residences with even-numbered addresses Water ONLY on Saturdays, Mondays & Wednesdays Apartments, Condos & Businesses Water ONLY on Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays Water at the Right Times November 1 through May 31: Water between 4 pm-10 am for ONLY 7 MINUTES at a time when using a standard sprinkler system. June 1 through October 31: Water between 6 pm-10 am for ONLY 10 MINUTES at a time when using a standard sprinkler system Visit www.sandiego.gov/water/conservation/drought/prohibitions.shtml to view a list of all mandatory restrictions. For more information on water conservation, resources for rebates, and services offered through the City, visit www.wastenowater.org. WATER HOTLINE Report water waste by calling: (619) 533-5271 waterwaste@sandiego.gov

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To See More Local News Between now and the next edition there will be events, updates and happenings you know “News of the Neighborhoods”. Do not miss out, for more local information be sure and bookmark our website www.ClairemontTimes.com. Additionally, we also have Social Media pages on Facebook,Twitter, Instagram & Pinterest like or follow “Clairemont Times” Veterans Day November 11th I have great admiration, respect and appreciation for those who have and do serve this country, thank you all for your service. I would be remiss if I did not recognize my late father, John

O’Connell a WWII U.S Navy Veteran. As well as a man whom I never had the chance to meet, but his WWII story is amazing the late Edward Abate, father of my wife Renee. There will be a one mile Veterans Day parade downtown on Nov.11 from 11am-1pm beginning on Harbor Drive. For more information, visit www.sdvetparade.org Lastly, Happy Thanksgiving to all, enjoy quality time with friends and family. Sincerely,

The First Annual LiveWell 5K The “Steps for Seniors” Livewell 5k is Saturday, December 6th. All proceeds benefit the Adult Day Care designed to care for seniors struggling with Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia.

Potholes in your Neighborhood? Report the Street & Cross Street to City of San Diego Streets & Potholes Division

619 527 7500

Location: Road Runner Sports 5553 Copley Drive, San Diego 92111 Registration begins at 8am To register or donate please visit www.roadrunnersports.fundly.com/liv ewell5k

VFW Post 3788 Holiday Rummage Sale New and used items for holiday needs. Lots to choose from. Nov 22nd-23rd 8:00 am – 4:00 pm. No presale

7785 Othello Avenue, (cross street Convoy) Kearny Mesa, 92111

Holiday Craft Fair Saturday November 8th 9:00am-3:00pm Atonement Lutheran Church

7250 Eckstrom Ave. 92111 (off Balboa near 805) Contact church office 858-278-5556

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The Clairemont Times â&#x20AC;˘ November 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ 3

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Grand Re-Opening Community Event for Balboa Mesa Shopping Center Regency Centers announces the official grand re-opening celebration of the Balboa Mesa Shopping Center slated for Saturday, Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.The event is free and open to all Clairemont residents and will feature a day of family fun filled with giveaways, food samples, music, kids’ activities, including face painting and a bounce house.A very special “Snow Queen” and “Snow Princess” will be on-site to visit, take pictures, and sing with young children and their families throughout the day.The grand re-opening serves as a thank you celebration, to show appreciation for the community’s patience and support throughout the entire revitalization process, as well as a celebration of the center’s 45th anniversary of service to generations of Clairemont residents. Located at 5500 Balboa Avenue in one of San Diego’s most populous areas, Balboa Mesa occupies over 210,000 square feet of space and serves a 3-mile radius of nearly 130,000 people. Redevelopment of the center, originally built in 1969, began May 1, 2013 and, in that time, Regency Centers filled every single vacancy. Regency Centers expects the revitalization will bring new life to the

Balboa Mesa Shopping Center with an enhanced shopping experience, and a dramatic enhancement to the Balboa and Genesee intersection, which many consider to be a prominent gateway into the Clairemont Mesa area. The LEED certified, eco-friendly renovation includes new shops and restaurants, as well as enhanced pedestrian connectivity, outdoor seating areas, parking, bioswales, lighting, landscaping, signage, exterior paint, and stone accents. New merchants include Boudin Bakery, Chicken Charlie’s FryBQ, Doctor’s Express Urgent Care, Great Clips, Jersey Mike’s Subs, Luna Grill, Ototo Sushi Company, Clairemont Smiles, Pieology Pizzeria, San Diego County Credit Union,The Habit Burger Grill,The Vitamin Shoppe, and 85°C Bakery Café.This will be the first San Diego location for Taiwan-based 85°C Bakery Café, and the first brick and mortar location for Chicken Charlie’s FryBQ, known from the San Diego County, Orange County and Los Angeles County fairs. For more information, visit the Regency Center’s Facebook event page at http://bit.ly/BalboaMesaGRO or call 858-847-4600.

In Their Own Words - The Two Candidates Vying for the District 6 San Diego City Council Race - Vote Tuesday, November 4th by Carol Kim

I’m not a political insider. I had met few elected officials before I began campaigning for City Council. When a friend encouraged me to run I didn’t take him seriously at first. Why would people want me as their Councilmember? I’m an educator who helps improve the efficiency of school programs and a former teacher. I’m married with two children. Both my husband, I work, and we worry about the ordinary issues facing families today, like paying the mortgage on our home and saving for our children to go to college, not having fancy dinners with politicians. I’m more like the people in my neighborhood than I am like the politicians downtown. That’s when it hit me. That’s exactly why I should run. For too long we have ceded control to big corporations, lobbyists and downtown insid-

ers, assuming that’s just the way it has to be. The voice often missing from the important decisions that define our communities is ours—the very people who live here. It’s not easy running as a political outsider. I’m being outspent by hundreds of thousands of dollars because the people who control City Hall now want to make sure it stays that way. I am definitely not their choice and they are doing everything they can to make sure I lose. I’m doing everything I can to talk to voters, and my campaign volunteers and I have probably knocked on your door. My platform is simple: Improve education and cut class sizes by coordinating with the School District and sharing assets and ideas; address basic infrastructure needs like streets and sidewalks; put more police officers in our neighborhoods by managing the crisis in recruitment and retention in our police department; and provide better services to our veterans and military families. Let’s take City Hall back for our neighborhoods. Please vote for me on November 4th.

by Chris Cate

I grew up in San Diego and I learned the value of hard work from my parents. I lived with my mother growing up and she worked overtime to make ends meet. She would drop me off at McDonald’s before 6 a.m. each day on her way to work and I would study before school. My father puts his life on the line every day for the California Highway Patrol. While attending the University of San Diego I helped start and run a small business and took out student loans to pay my tuition. As a budget analyst at City Hall I learned the ins and outs of the city’s spending, and came to realize San Diegans can receive the services we deserve if politicians would cut out the waste and mismanagement and focus on our neglected neighborhoods. As vice president of the San Diego County Taxpayers Association, a local non-profit, I’ve advocated on behalf of taxpayers to pass pension and other government reforms that will save tax-

payers more than $1 billion. I am running for City Council to finish the job, so we can invest in neglected neighborhoods and move San Diego forward. Keeping compensation packages for police officers competitive with other departments is a no-brainer, but it takes leadership at City Hall to prioritize public safety budgets over other competing priorities. My “Getting San Diego Back to Work” Jobs Plan outlines 16 ideas that will make it easier to interact with the city to start a small business and create jobs. I formed the “Neighborhoods First Coalition” to ensure each neighborhood within District 6 has an equal voice to better our community.The coalition is the first of its kind in San Diego, and has already released its plan to tackle neighborhood issues. I have the experience, leadership and vision to hit the ground running. I will be honest and transparent with the people I work for, and I won’t make promises I can’t keep. My experiences will serve as my guide and help me ensure everyone in District 6 lives in a neighborhood they’re proud of. If you have a question for me, please call me at (619) 839-9835. Chris Cate works as a taxpayer advocate at a local non-profit. He is running for San Diego City Council’s District 6 seat.

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EMERGENCY NUMBERS LOCAL USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS Sponsored by

EMERITUS at CLAIREMONT SAFETY Police 911 Fire 911

Non emerg 619.531.2000 Non emerg 619.533.4300

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877.232.7433 619.282.0073 858.637.3000

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

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S AV E T H E D AT E

Clairemont Women’s Club Are you looking for a way to reward your employees for a job well done? Do you know a senior citizen who doesn’t get out often? Maybe you could consider treating them to a lunch date. The Clairemont Woman’s Club (CWC) will be hosting a fundraiser at OutBack Steakhouse on January 23, 2015. The funds raised will be added to our scholarship fund to be used for a senior girl at both Madison and Clairemont High as they continue their education after high school graduation. The lunch will include steak or chicken, potatoes, green salad and drink all for

$15.00. Please call 858- 578-6266 for advance tickets. The CWC meets the first Wednesday of each month September through June at 1:00 p.m.. Our meetings are held at Balboa Community Church, located at 6555 Balboa Avenue, here in San Diego. The club objective is the promotion of social concerns, civic interests and educational activities of the members for the community at large. Interested? Please consider coming to a meeting and giving yourself the opportunity to find out what we are all about. We look forward to seeing you soon.

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NOVEMBER LIBRARY EVENTS NORTH CLAIREMONT BRANCH 4616 CLAIREMONT DRIVE, 92117 SPECIAL EVENTS • Live Music:The Swingin’ with Dean Show 11/4 6:30pm Dean Ratzman plays swing, big band, jazz, blues and rock. Enjoy an evening of hits from the great American artists from the 1940’s through the 1970’s • NC Book Club: 11/5 6:30pm Members will discuss The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman’s • Friends of the Library Book Sale 11/8 9:30-1pm Find gently used books, movies & music. Great deals. • Dinosaur Program 11/12 3:45pm Watch the film about how “Walking with the Dinosaurs” was made and a hands-on fossil activity afterwards. • Tales for Tails/Reading Practice for Children 4+ 11/13 4pmChildren can practice reading to rabbits, guinea pigs, mice or dogs. • Challenge Island Science Classes 11/4 & 11/13 3:45pm What do you get when you mix hands-on science and engineering with fun arts and crafts? A class that promotes creative and critical thinking skills. Sign up today! Ages 9+ • MTS Book Club 11/19 6:30pm The “Read and Ride” book club is reading The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes. • EReader Clinic 11/20 Noon Monthly clinic to get assistance with your Ereader. • Magic Leaf Craft 11/26 4pm Scratch colorful designs into this beautiful fall leaf pattern! These leaves can be hung from tree branches, railings or doorknobs and can even be used as bookmarks! For kids of all ages. RECURRING EVENTS • Mondays: Sign A Story Circle Time 10am American Sign Language for babies and preschoolers Songs & Stories with props • Tuedays:Tiny Tots Stories 12:45 Storytime for babies and toddlers

using books, songs, rhymes, fingerplays, and simple games. • Wednesdays: Homework Help Wednesdays 6:30-8pm College educated volunteers can help students with their homework or writing practice. • Fridays:Toddler & Preschool Storytime 10:30am • Sign Language Storytime Saturdays 11/1 & 11/15 10:30 Ms. Jennifer uses the excitement and fun of signing to enhance the reading of well-loved children’s picture books, sing-alongs and bubble time.

CLAIREMONT BRANCH 2920 BURGENER BLVD., 92110 SPECIAL EVENTS • Paint a Canvas in One Day 11/1 10am-noon Taught by artist and art instructor Donna Davis. Using the paintings of O’Keefe, Matisse and Van Gogh as references for inspiration, participants will paint with acrylics on canvas board. This class is for individuals 13 and older. Sign up is required and is limited to 22 participants. Please call to sign up, space still available. • Adult Book Club 11/5 6pm Members will discuss The Secret History, by Donna Tartt • Author Discussion 11/18 6:30pm Award-winning local author Paula Margulies will discuss her historical fiction novel Favorite Daughter, Part One, a first-person retelling of the life story of the famous Native American legend, Pocahontas. November is American Indian Heritage month. • Free Concert The Early Renaissance Music Ensemble of San Diego 11/19 6pm Please join us for this fabulous evening of music! All are welcome. • Neighborhood Wildlife: Presentation, Storytime Craft 11/20 4pm by Tecolote Canyon Volunteers. RECURRING EVENTS • Art Class for Children Ages 6-12 11/5 4pm

The class is led by Robert Gulli. • The Friends of the Library Monthly Meeting 11/19 4pm • Craft Time Tuesdays 5:30pm For children and their families with our Youth Services Librarian, Karina. • 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 02 and their caregivers On the 2nd, 4th and 5th 10:30 am Storytime with our Youth Services Librarian, Karina. • Fridays10:30 am Preschool Storytime with Miss Fran.

BALBOA BRANCH 4255 MT.ABERNATHY AVE, 92117 SPECIAL EVENTS • Get Ready for Thanksgiving Visit us during the month of November and tell us what you are thankful for. Stop at the Circulation Desk and pick up a paper feather, decorate it and write what you are thankful for and we will add it to the Happy Thanksgiving Day bulletin board display! • Chair Yoga for Seniors 11/3 & 11/17 11:15-12pm New for seniors at Balboa! Join us

for this relaxing fitness program. • Friends of the Library Book Sale 11/15 10am-2pm Come and browse our books, videos, magazines, etc. Buy a SDPL reusable bag for $10.00 and fill it will all your favorites. Find something special for a perfect holiday gift! • Balboa Book Club 11/18 12:30pm Members will discuss The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell. • Decorate a Thanksgiving Day Cupcake 11/25 1pm-2:30 Children 5th grade and younger Come and decorate a cupcake or two to bring home for the holiday.We will supply the cupcakes and decorating materials and you can supply the creativity! • Paws to Read 11/25 6:00 pm (Library is closed 11/11 for Veteran’s Day) Therapy dogs provide a positive and fun environment for children to practice reading. Brought to you by Love on a Leash RECURRING EVENTS • Drop In & Play 11/7 10:30-11:30 Babies & Toddlers Mondays: Lego Club 4pm • Wednesdays:“Stories with Susan” 6pm • Fridays:“Wee Reads” Baby & Toddler Storytime 11/14 & 11/21 10:30am • Saturdays:“Kids Krafternoons” 1pm (11/29 No program)

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Raise the Balloon March Update The Raise the Balloon March was a huge success! New registrants to our

website are filtering in daily. More residents are becoming aware of what the City of San Diego is proposing in land use, density, and building heights.We want a voice in the development in our neighborhoods and that voice is growing daily! Development will bring both good and bad.The majority of our residents welcomes new development. But if residents don’t become part of the public input process that amending our Community Plans guarantees, it can turn out badly.We will inform the public when the City begins to solicit our input for the final amendments. In the meantime, we are not waiting for the City Planners to finalize what they want. Instead, we are initiating two of our own Community Plan amendments in a pre-emptive strike! The first will be a GAR (Green Area Ratio) which is an environmental sustainability zoning regulation that sets standards for landscape and site design to help reduce stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and keep

the neighborhood cooler.Washington, D.C. just enacted such regulations into their building code in 2013. We will use the city of San Diego’s existing regulations and policies covering community parks and open space, as well as municipal code requirements for private exterior open space within development projects as our baseline for the proposed new amendment. The second amendment we are initiating is a building height limit in the Linda Vista Plan area, specifically, that area included in the Morena Blvd Station Area Planning Study. Part of that area has no existing height limits, and if the City is successful in changing the current land use to mixed residential, then the sky is the limit! We have joined forces with our Linda Vista neighbors and are drafting an amendment to limit new development to 30 feet, such as the one that exists in the Clairemont Mesa Community Plan. We are currently forming the two sub-committees that will head up the effort to draft our amendments, and we welcome any residents in both plan areas that are interested in helping in the formulation of them to contact us via the website: www.raisetheballoon.com James LaMattery Spokesperson for Raise The Balloon

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” Pathway Christian Fellowship www.pathwayonline.org 3811 Mount Acadia Blvd, San Diego, CA 92111 Phone (858) 277-3027 Join us Sundays at 10 am

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 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

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8 • The Clairemont Times • November 2014

Councilmemember Ed Harris by Ed Harris

Being the Councilmember for District Two has been a unique and deeply rewarding experience for me, and one that I’ll never forget. As I wrap up my council term next month, there are a number of people I would like to thank who have made these past seven months remarkable for me. I would like to thank Mayor Kevin L. Faulconer, the City’s leadership team, and the City’s 10,000 employees who strive every day to make San Diego America’s Finest City; my Council colleagues for their guidance and collaboration; and my staff who worked weekends and long hours to address quality of life issues for our neighborhoods by quickly and thoroughly responding to constituent concerns and requests. The community leaders and volunteers who sit on boards for planning groups, town councils, committees, and associations are deserving of my thanks. Their work is often challenging and always time consuming. I respect and appreciate these individuals for their engagement, their willingness to serve, and their dedication to improve our neighborhoods. They are true community leaders. I am thankful for the constituents who acted as my eyes and ears in the District Two communities. They took time to contact my office with problems and concerns because they care about San Diego. This January I’ll go back to the boating unit on Mission Bay to resume my responsibilities as a sergeant with the City of San Diego Lifeguards, adding to my 25 years of lifeguard service. I

look forward to returning to the shore to ensure that everyone who comes to the beach or bay for the day leaves safely at the end of each day. It will be strange not putting on a coat and tie to go to the office, but perhaps one day I’ll find a use for those again. Councilmember Lorie Zapf will be sworn in as the new Councilmember for District Two on December 10. I know that Lorie and her experienced staff look forward to serving their new constituents. For any assistance with District Two related matters, I encourage you to call or email her office at 619-236-6622 and LorieZapf@sandiego.gov. One thing I’ve learned in this job is that problem solving begins in our communities and happens when we work together. If you need to borrow a ladder, you ask your neighbor. There’s a pothole on your street, you call the council office to get it repaired. You have an idea to improve your community, you get involved in a planning group, town council or neighborhood association. I was able to accomplish a great deal in just a few months as a councilmember, but you don’t have to be in office to bring positive change to your community. I would ask that you continue to be engaged and participate in being part of the solution to solve problems small and large to make your neighborhood the best it can be. As I gather around the Thanksgiving table with family and friends at the end of this month, I’ll be reflecting on this experience and giving thanks for this chance-of-a-lifetime opportunity to serve. I wish you all a happy Thanksgiving. Respectfully, Ed Harris Councilmember, District Two

Community Meetings Open to the Public CLAIREMONT TOWN COUNCIL 11/6/14 (1st Thurs. of the month) 6:30 PM Cadman Elementary Auditorium 4370 Kamloop Ave, 92117 CLAIREMONT COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP 11/18/14 (3rd Tues. of the month) 6:30 PM Cadman Elementary Auditorium 4370 Kamloop Ave, 92117 LINDA VISTA TOWN COUNCIL 11/20/14 (3rd Thurs. of the month)

6:30 PM Baha’i Faith Center 6545 Alcala Knolls Drive, 92111 LINDA VISTA PLANNING GROUP 11/24/14 (4th Mon. of the month) 5:30 PM Linda Vista Public Library 2160 Ulric St, 92111 MARIAN BEAR REC COUNCIL 11/12/14 (2nd Wed.of the month) 6:30PM LiveWell Senior Center 4425 Bannock Ave, 92117

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Linda Vista Residents Step Up to Protect Environment by Scott Sherman, District 7

Earlier this month, my office teamed with San Diego’s Environmental Services Department to hold a community cleanup and recycling event. Residents had the opportunity to clean up their neighborhood and dispose of old appliances, electronics, and other unneeded items in their home and to protect the environment. To help spread the word, my office walked over 1,100 homes in Linda Vista to pass out flyers and speak with residents about the event. In addition to promoting the community cleanup, walking the community gave me an

opportunity to meet with residents and discuss neighborhood issues. Thanks to the hard work of the community,The Environmental Services Department collected over 30 tons of trash and recyclables that residents cleaned up from their streets or cleaned out from their homes. Collecting over 30 tons of trash and recycling is a great sign of the involvement and love that Linda Vistans have for their community and I am proud to represent this area. If you may have missed the cleanup event, please visit ESD’s website for information regarding future events: www.sandiego.gov/environmentalservices/ As always, if there are any issues in the community, please don’t hesitate to contact my office at 619-236-6677 or email me at ScottSherman@SanDiego.Gov.

Viewpoint

Why Clairemont Needs More Arts and Culture by Daniel J. Smiechowski

Bringing the arts and culture to Clairemont may be as rare as hearing a rendition of “Auprès de ma blonde” at a local watering hole.Yet, our community would benefit from a dose of high and polite society. Since it is women who largely dominate this area of the humanities, perhaps they ought to form a group of some significance in order to promote the arts and culture in Clairemont. Despite the efforts of various folks in our community in promoting the arts, we have collectively fallen short.There ought to be some connection with everyday life and what we deem as cultural in nature.There exist a myriad of Asian, European, Middle Eastern and African cultures within Clairemont not to mention our friends from south of the border. High school students should be taught hands on what it means to buy a baguette from an Asian market or how it came possible to relish a great French pastry. French colonialism and the French Revolution of 1789 are the answers.The older generation ought to pass down trivia such as the days during the early seventies when many cars in Clairemont were Renault, Peugeot and Citroen. But, like the Maginot Line these cars had a short shelf life. Tragedy and comedy ought to be explored through the eyes of Moliere, Corneille and Racine, the big three of French theater. Outside of bringing La Comedie Francaise to the Clairemont Square, we need to dedicate some local building as something akin to this

French national treasure. Historical context must come to life in our local restaurants, bars, schools, public service groups and among other principals. Every effort must be made to showcase Americans abroad and vice versa.A heroine in France,America’s Josephine Baker must never be forgotten. Popular songs from around the world should be shared, perhaps to be included in one large Clairemont cultural event. La Vie en Rose, one of the greatest love songs of all time must be admired through the eyes of every resident.Two of the greatest films the world has ever seen, La Grande Illusion and Les Enfants du Paradis could easily be shown at one of our local High Schools. The concept of the Arts touches the soul of humanity and softens the travail’s of everyday life. I have always maintained that the humanities make for a kinder and gentler society, bringing the human condition to life in all its glory. On one dark and cold morning in the City of Light while sitting at a café in the Paris Hilton I had a transcendent moment.As gentle snowflakes fell over the Eifel Tower like angels dancing in the sky, the melancholy of the moment brought me to tears.The strength and love of solitude prevailed. Let’s bring the arts and culture to Clairemont in making for a civil society and educating our youth in the humanities. 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

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An Oak Oasis in Clairemont Tecolote Canyon Natural Park is divided into three sections by major east-west thoroughfares.The section north of Balboa Avenue is the narrowest and is home to a large number of mature Coast Live Oak Trees. The presence of these trees provides shade and a very pleasant hiking experience. The hiking trail can be accessed from either North Clairemont Community Park or a trailhead at Chateau Drive and Genesee Avenue. The trail from Genesee Avenue includes three creek crossings in the first quarter mile before it turns south and heads towards Balboa.The oak trees are dependent on the additional

moisture that Tecolote Creek provides. The ribbon of oaks that snakes its way

down the canyon is bordered by coastal sage scrub on one side and chaparral vegetation on the other.These three habitats in close proximity offer a diversity of plant, ani-

mal, and bird species. The trail is 2 1/2 miles round trip and offers a nice respite from the hustle and bustle of city streets. It is fairly level and wide in most places.There is some poison oak in the canyon but it is not close to the hiking trail. The trail meanders in and out of the oak trees and crosses a small bridge at one point. Scrub Jays, Towhees and seasonal Yellow-Rumped Warblers can be seen foraging among the trees. Please join the Tecolote Canyon Interpretive Group for a guided hike through this portion of Tecolote Canyon on Saturday, November 22 at 9:00 a.m. We will meet at the park sign at Genesee Ave. and Chateau Drive.There are no facilities at the trailhead and parking is on Chateau Dr. Please bring water, sunscreen and sturdy hiking or walking shoes. For more information contact the Tecolote Nature Center at 858-5819959.

Tecolote Nature Center 5180 Tecolote Road San Diego, CA. 92110 858-581-9959 Sunday, November 2 - 8:00 a.m. California Native Plant Society Walk Join a CNPS member on a guided walk. Friday, November 7 - 1:30-3:30 p.m. Project Wildlife Booth Meet Winkie, a one eyed Cassin’s Kingbird. Saturday, November 15 - 9-11:00 a.m. Weed Warriors Clean up the canyon with a Park Ranger.Wear sturdy shoes and long pants. Gloves and tools provided Saturday, November 22 - 9:00 a.m. Tecolote Canyon Interpretive Group – *Chateau Drive Entrance Discover an oak oasis in Clairemont. Meet at the park sign at Genesee Avenue and Chateau Drive. No facilities and parking is on Chateau Drive. Saturday, November 22 - 8:00 a.m. Audubon Society Birding Walk Join an experienced guide on an easy walk. See and hear our feathered friends. For more information or to schedule a guided walk for your youth or adult group contact the Tecolote Canyon Interpretive Group (TCIG) at 858-581-9959 or visit us at 5180 Tecolote Road San Diego, CA. 92110. Updated activities are posted at www.meetup.com/Friends of Tecolote Canyon Natural Park and Nature Center

10 • The Clairemont Times • November 2014

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York, Maine by Kevin Casillo

York, Maine America’s first chartered city (1632) and one of New England’s earliest colonial settlements is the quintessential small New England Town. Rugged, rocky coastlines call young and old to its shores or “Showas” as it’s pronounced in town.Which basically consists of the same attractions it did when I combed these beaches as a young boy with my brothers, sister, two cousins and of course our two German Shepherds, Shep and Sheba, and even they were brother and sister who came in handy as all we had to do was fill our pales full of treasures, have them bite down on the handles and they would happily carry them back. York beach is full of memories. The Fun-O-Rama, right on the waters edge where you can still walk in across well worn wood floors scuffed from years of beach traffic sand and salt air. Put a

Both clearly defined by their names. Short Sands is my favorite. Home to one of the most recognizable paces to any kid under 110, the “Golden Rod!” We stood here for hours. Mesmerized

in front of oversized windows as the chef in white coat and hat stood over huge heated copper pots filled with a sugary concoction that eventually became Saltwater Taffy. Peanut Butter is all I ever wanted, (that’s the only one my dog would eat) and I had to reward him for carrying back all those pales full of sand and seaweed. For me, mornings are the best time to walk the beaches, a few lone seagulls hoping to find a crab in the still moist sand, the

few coins in the juke box, play table games, or shuffle board, buy a towel sunglasses, hat some Coppertone tanning oil or bowl of few frames of candlepin complete with wooden pins until you ran out of nickels. There are two main beaches in York Beach. Short sands and Long Sands.

occasional jogger passes by and the lone fisherman holding his own nods a polite hello. Maine is a beautiful state and if you haven’t been or haven’t been in a while, it’s worth the trip. Quaint villages, towns and Inn’s dot the coastline, shops for every budget. You defi-

Streets Without Cars

bikeway and a variety of street games, activities and performances hosted by local businesses and community groups. The newly released CicloSDias route runs from Laurel Street in Bankers Hill up 6th Avenue to University Ave., and from University down to Park Blvd., where folks can enjoy the weekly Hillcrest Famers Market.The two-mile route was chosen to highlight more than 300 local businesses and showcase the Hillcrest and Bankers Hill communities. Contrary to other bicycling events, CicloSDias has no start, finish, organized ride or entry fee; the only requirement

Leave the car keys at home and grab your bicycles, skateboards and walking shoes because San Diego’s third CicloSDias is around the corner. On Sunday, November 9,The San Diego Bike Coalition hosts the city’s only car-free, open-streets celebration in the interest of promoting local businesses and livable communities. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. attendees will experience streets unlike they’ve seen in Hillcrest, including pop-up live music, Crossfit and yoga in the streets, DECO Bike Share demos, a temporary protected

nitely cannot beat the taste of fresh Maine Lobster or Crab. I prefer Lobster and Crab rolls over boiled it’s less work and it’s the same stuff heaven is made of. Take a short drive into Wells, Perkins Cove and Ogunquit, but I always stay on Short Sands and always stay at a wonderful old (1868) Victorian Hotel, the “Union Bluff”. Right on the water offering everything you would expect, including sea views and lovely balconies. Whatever you do, get out of the car, walk the paths and follow the sun, as it will eventually lead you to your dreams. Happy Travels! Want more photos, visit www.hotshots360.smugmug.com

is shopping local and having fun outside of the car. “When we get out of our cars, we slow down and notice new things in our communities, we may not have seen yet,” says Bike Coalition Executive Director Andy Hanshaw.“CicloSDias encourages that community awakening. We hope families, neighbors and friends will leave the car keys at home and explore all the nooks and crannies in this fantastic neighborhood that we miss when we’re behind the wheel.” For more information and a map of the route, please visit www.ciclosdias.com or www.sdbikecoalition.org.

Rose Creek Bikeway Project Update The plans and engineering to construct the Rose Creek Bikeway are about one-third complete.The Rose Creek Bikeway is being designed as a shared use path for people riding bikes and people walking along Rose Creek in its southern reach, and two-way protected bike lanes along the west side of Santa Fe Street in its northern reach. At the same time as the plans are being drawn, the environmental studies are being finished and the draft environmental document is being prepared for the public review and comment period, which is anticipated to be in the spring of 2015.An open house showcasing the design is planned around that time to coincide with the beginning of the environmental document public review and comment period. The next steps after completing the environmental process and design will be to collect bids for constructing the project and, finally, to begin building the project! It is anticipated that construction will begin in 2016.

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

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by Gary Hyde

I thought I start this month with some music news at Pacific Records. Super Groupie has been getting airplay on 91X from tunes off their new CD Sky Sand and Sol. You can find that CD and more on iTunes. On Oct. 15 they played the pre party show at the Sports arena before the Enrique Iglesias/Pitbull concert.They sounded great and were very well received. Oct. 29 their song “Waiting For Tonight” was featured on Criminal Minds the popular CBS show, by the way the co-writer of that song was none other than me. Brand new Pacific Records artist Lindsay Perry is in town doing some

The Color Campaign by Hannah-June Bigler, Senior at Mt. Everest Academy

Most students, parents, teachers, staff and families of local district schools would be in a favor of a much needed school repainting. I was glad when I first heard my school, Mt. Everest Academy, was going to be repainted. Our building is a nice color, but shades vary throughout campus and the light blue doesn’t really match the dark green doors. I thought it was neat we’d been given the opportunity to vote for our favorite color schemesuntil I saw the palettes up for a vote. I was outraged, and so was the rest of the student body with me. Must all eight of our options be so drab and dreary? Dull, dry and depressing? What is the district saying about our schools when they want to paint them browns, tans and fifty shades of grey?

Police Blotter Petty Theft 5100 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. Grand Theft 6200 Beadnell Way Res Burglary 2100 Westinghouse St. Battery 5000 Cadet St. Res Burglary 4800 Mt. La Platta Dr. Vehicle Break-In 5000 Kesling St. Fraud 5500 Balboa Ave. Vehicle Break-In 2700 Greyling Dr. Battery 7900 Frost St. Grand Theft 3800 Clmt Mesa Blvd. Comm Burglary 5600 Balboa Ave. Battery 4100 Mt. Alifan Pl. Res Robbery 3400 Cowley Way Petty Theft 5500 Balboa Ave. Res Burglary 6700 Kelly St. Assault 2700 Wheatstone St. Vehicle Theft 4100 Balboa Way Grand Theft 5000 Capehart St. Fraud 4200 Clmt Mesa Blvd. Res Burglary 4000 Avanti Dr. Vehicle Break-In 3700 Southview Dr. Vehicle Break-In 7900 Ostrow St. Vandalism 4100 Conner Ct.

writing and recording. Lindsay is a singer, songwriter, model, and surfer. She has an impressive list of sponsors, Billabong, Spy Optic, Nixon Watches and Taylor Guitars to name a few. I have had the pleasure of writing and recording with her and I can tell you she is talented, pretty and a lot of fun. Be on the lookout for Lindsay’s debut CD soon. Pacific Records artist Steven Ybarra will be in Nashville Nov. 9-15 recording tracks for his upcoming CD. He’ll be cutting at Castle Recording Studios. The first single from this CD “All You Gotta Do is Love Me”is out now on iTunes. Oct. 12, I went to see Jason Scheff at Lestats. Jason has been the bass playWe’re in favor or a fresh look, but not at the cost of color.The rest of San Diego may need to be watered, but our schools shouldn’t look like they have to be. Before the Vote Today! sign was posted for the students, ten choices were already ousted by the staff, according to Mr. Bruce Sharp, a teacher at MEA. Students are sweltering in schools of white and blue, why are we even considering painting hot classrooms with no air conditioning even darker? Perhaps the district believes our color is too distracting. I’m not asking our school be painted bright goldenrod or purple gladiola, let’s just avoid “lost luggage” and “turkey creek,” “burlap” and “twig.” Is our blue, statistically the most favored color and one that evokes peace, calm and confidence, seriously detrimental to academic excellence? We have to come to school no mat-

ter what the color of the building is. The education received inside doesn’t change with the paint on the walls. If we must vote away color, at least paint our schools white or crème with a color trim- if not blue, or yellow, or green; at least try navy or a nice burgundy. Boo out brown and kick our khaki, we don’t have to settle for color palettes from officials who don’t even come to our schools.Voice your opinion and reply to this article; send a message to thecolorcampaign@gmail.com

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er in the group Chicago for over 20 years. He grew up playing here in San Diego and this was a coming back home show featuring his brother and friends. It was a great show with top notch musicians. I really enjoyed Jason’s bass playing and singing, plus the groove laid down by drummers Jake Najor and Bob Sale. My favorite tune of the night was the old Rufus-Chaka Khan tune “Tell Me Something Good” written by Stevie Wonder. It was beautifully sung by Rebecca Jade.That girl needs a record deal.What would have really topped off the night? Hearing the great drummer Gary Nieves of (Gary & Gary) who was in the audience, play. Boy that was a shameless plug for our group, forgive me. Last but not least in October news my beautiful and talented granddaughter Jordan turned 8 on Oct. 10. Happy birthday Jordan!!! Talk to you next month.Want to talk sooner? Email me at gary@clairemonttimes.com

Vehicle Break-In 3800 Paducah Dr. Fraud 6300 Beadnell Way Fraud 4600 Chickasaw Ct. Vehicle Break-In 4800 Dolvia Dr. Res Burglary 2100 Garston St. Comm Robbery 5900 Balboa Ave. Vehicle Break-In 2900 Aber St. Vehicle Break-In 4100 Fond Du Lac Ave. Battery 6700 Beadnell Way Vehicle Theft 2500 Ulric St. Res Burglary 3400 Del Rey St. Vehicle Theft 4500 Limerick Way Comm Burglary 4200 Kearny Mesa Rd. Vehicle Break-In 4400 Cannington Dr. Res Burglary 6500 Lanston St. Res Burglary 3500 Afton Rd. Vehicle Theft 3100 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. Vehicle Break-In 4600 De Soto St. Vehicle Break-In 4400 Piute Pl. Battery 5500 Balboa Ave. Vehicle Theft 3100 Cowley Way Vandalism 3700 Jemez Dr. Vandalism 3400 Conrad Ave. Res Burglary 4300 Cannington Dr. Comm Burglary 4400 Clairemont Mesa Blvd.

Bright Star by Bartley Stratton

BRIGHT STAR is a new american musical created by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell. The show takes place in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina between 1923 and 1945. Billy Cane is a young soldier who is fresh out of war. He aspires to be a writer and meets Alice Murphy, an editor of a southern literary journal. They both discover a secret that changes their lives. The blue grass band was absolutely divine. Their sound was superb and the orchestration was lovely. The lighting and sound design was impeccable as well. Carmen Cusack who played Alice Murphy was strong, powerful and commanded the stage. Hannah Elless who played Margo Crawford played a sweet, innocent girl. Her voice was soft ad melodious. I applaud The Old Globe for producing new work. Writing a fresh story and adding music that is unknown, is difficult. However, there are many kinks in the show that need to be ironed out if it is Broadway bound. With close to twenty songs, it was overbearing. There was far too much talk-singing and not enough raw emotion being displayed. The act one finale was so abrupt and raw, the audience was unsure to clap or gasp. The “bright star” in my opinion was when there were company numbers such as “Whaddya Say, Jimmy Ray?/By Your Side” and “Sun’s Gonna Shine”. BRIGHT STAR is off to a good start. With some re-working of the songs and script, there is potential for it to have a life after The Old Globe. For more information visit: https://www.theoldglobe.org

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

Volunteers Needed for the SDPD The San Diego Police Department’s Retired Senior Volunteer Patrol (RSVP), northern division, is seeking additional volunteers to serve the Clairemont community, as well: UTC, Bay Park, Pacific & Mission Beach’s, and La Jolla. RSVP duties include patrolling of our local neighborhoods while serving as additional eyes & ears for our police department. We assist uniformed officers with directing traffic where needed, we support disaster preparedness & homeland security efforts. Additionally, we look for stolen vehicles using our license plate readers, write tickets for handicap space & red zone infractions and for out of date license plate registrations. RSVP

volunteers visit elderly residents living alone to check on their welfare & safety and we check homes for residents on vacation. Volunteers are from all walks of life, must be at least 50 years of age and possess a valid Calif. drivers license. We offer flexible schedules; a minimum of three days per month of service is required. Here is your opportunity to be part of a talented team of San Diegans serving our community. Don’t wait-our next academy begins after the 1st of the year. Contact RSVP in the Northern Division at 858-5521737 or E-Mail to sdpdnorthern@pd.sandiego.gov

12 • The Clairemont Times • November 2014

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Native Foods By Michael Baehr

The Clairemont Times PO Box 17671 San Diego, CA 92177 (858) 752-9779

Change Your Expectations and Enjoy Guilt-Free Dining!

On a recent visit to my doctor, I learned some slightly discouraging news: my cholesterol is starting to climb. According to my doctor, this

($3.95) as one of Native Foods’ most popular items. Sounded good to me, so I ordered this along with a cup of the daily soup special,Tuscan

Chowhound needs to cut down on red meat (what!?), get some exercise and start eating healthy foods more often. What a perfect excuse to trot into Native Foods and see what

Garbanzo soup ($2.95). I paired this with a glass of watermelon Fresca ($2.75) and I was set. I could feel the cholesterol demons retreating already. I arrived at 11:30, just ahead of the lunch crowd. Good thing I did because the line was soon out the door. This is an order-and-they-bring-itto-you type of place, so most people in the line were trying to decide what to order. I was given a glass and a number, and directed to the serveyourself drink area. At my table, I took a sip of the watermelon drink. It was a delicious and refreshing blend of fresh watermelon juice, mint and organic agave

Founding Publisher: Chris O’Connell Graphic Designer: Elaine Hall Contributors: Mike Baehr Kevin Casillo Shauna Fisher Gary Hyde Nicole C. Rohde Daniel J. Smiechowski Bartley Stratton Rob Stone 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 ©2011-14 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: Chicken Ranch Run Burger & Native Fries

Clairemont’s newest vegan restaurant has to offer. The minute I walked in the door, the friendly counter attendant proudly exclaimed,“everything we serve is 100% plant-based!” I felt like a fish out of water… I wasn’t even sure what that really meant. After scanning the menu, including the daily specials, I chose the fish tacos and a cup of chili. “Hmm… I probably wouldn’t start with that if you’ve never been here before,” the counter person continued. “Okay, then you tell me what’s good for a Native Foods newbie,” I replied. Without missing a beat, the helpful woman offered up the Chicken Ranch Run Burger ($9.95) with Native Fries

Native Buffalo Chicken Wings, Crispy Sweet Potato Fries & Lavendar Lemonade

sweetener. I love watermelon anything, and I could imagine drinking this all day while lounging by a pool on a hot day. Within minutes, the garbanzo soup was delivered to my table. It was flavorful and packed with veg-

gies, broth and some kind of spice with a zing. It would be perfect for a chilly autumn day, I’m sure. A short while later, the chicken burger arrived. I was surprised how much food there was: a generously sized chicken patty, a mound of fries and a side salad— wow! (In fact, it wasn’t until later that I realized the side salad was actually the burger’s greens, sitting on top of the bun.) The crispy Native Fries had an unusual taste at first, but quickly grew on me. Next, I cut into the battered ‘chicken.’ It was tender and juicy, and it had a very similar consistency to actual chicken. I took a bite and, to my surprise, it tasted surprisingly like chicken, but it was made from free-range soy, wheat and pea protein. Whoa. And the ‘Native Fries’ had been fried in pure rice bran oil. As I sat there eating my lunch, I reached this simple conclusion: dismiss the expectation that this is real chicken or meat, and open yourself to the idea of having a healthy, plantbased meal that is good for you and the environment. This puts a whole different spin on everything. To help solidify my thoughts, I stopped by again a few days later. This time I had the signature Crispy Sweet Potato Fries ($3.95), Native Buffalo Chicken Wings ($5.95) and a Lavender Lemonade ($2.75). The sweet potato fries were super crunchy and dusted with a salted herb topping. I’m not usually a fan of sweet potatoes, but these fries were wonderful. The lavender lemonade was certainly refreshing, but the lavender made it taste more like something you would imagine having at a spa. The ‘Native Chicken Wings’ were battered and tossed in the traditional spicy buffalo sauce. Again, the wings were moist and slightly nutty. While this is not the typical pub grub that this Chowhound might be used to, it is certainly a guilt-free alternative that is both flavorful and good for the environment. I’m sure my doctor would be happy. Native Foods (In the Target shopping center) 5604 Balboa Avenue 858-278-2855 www.nativefoods.com ABOUT CLAIREMONT’S CHOWHOUND Clairemont Chowhound Michael Baehr is a home cook and self-proclaimed foodie. He loves sampling new eateries and welcomes your suggestions for local restaurants, fast food and specialty markets to review. Email: ClairemontChowhound@ClairemontTimes.com

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SCHOOL NEWS ensure continuity of instruction Positive Changes on Horizon for throughout the grade levels.” Preparations are underway for in both instruction and faciliMadison Cluster Schools in 2015-16 changes ties, and will continue throughout the San Diego Unified School District is making some changes to schools in the Madison Cluster that will improve the quality of education available in many of Clairemont’s neighborhood schools. The schools that will see changes in the 2015-16 school year include Innovation and Creative, Performing and Media Arts (CPMA) middle schools, and Field, Hawthorne, Lafayette, Lindbergh Schweitzer, Sequoia and Whitman elementary schools. In collaboration with the Madison Community of Schools, the district recently announced that Innovation Middle School will add sixth-grade instruction to become a 6-8 middle school. CPMA will remain an arts magnet school and continue to offer instruction in grades 6-8. Sixth grade will no longer be offered at the elementary schools. In addition, Sequoia Elementary, which is the only year-round school in the cluster, will convert to a traditional calendar in order to align its schedule with other area schools. Students currently in fifth and sixth grades at the cluster elementary schools will have the option to attend either Innovation Middle or CPMA. Information sessions will be held at both schools for parents and students to learn more about the process for

selecting a school. CPMA will hold its information session on Wednesday, Nov. 5, at 6 p.m. Innovation Middle will hold its information session on Thursday, Nov. 6, at 6 p.m. Both schools will offer tours the week of Nov. 10 through 17 for interested parents and students. Adding sixth grade to Innovation Middle was proposed in order to provide more continuity in the K-12 programs offered across the cluster schools and meet the need for a second middle school that offers grades 68.The changes closely align with the district’s Vision 2020 to create quality schools in every neighborhood. These ideas were developed by parents and staff from the schools in the Madison Cluster, as well as interested community members, who have been meeting regularly to discuss how to improve neighborhood schools and increase enrollment.The San Diego Unified Board of Education approved the changes on June 3, 2014. “Our schools have always offered strong educational programs in a variety of areas,” said Board of Education trustee Dr. John Lee Evans.“However, we have noticed over the last few years that some students were leaving the cluster after fifth grade to attend a traditional middle school that offered grades 6-8, so we are making both middle schools in the area grades 6-8 to

Clairemont’s First Baseball Team by Rob Stone

60 years ago, San Diego Park & Recreation leader Chuck Hile organized and outfitted Clairemont’s first baseball team:The Clairemont Colonials. Mel Rizzo, 75, who still resides in Clairemont, was a hard-hitting catcher on that local Junior American Legion team.They played in a tough league. Post 492 of East San Diego advanced that year to win the 1954 Junior American Legion National Championship in Yakima,Washington. “It was the first baseball uniform I ever wore,” recalled Rizzo.“Chuck Hile was the rec coach at Whittier Elementary and he named us the Clairemont Colonials. It was a strange name.” Chuck Hile, 83, remembers hustling for sponsorship.“I begged Clair Burgener for the money to buy the uniforms. His construction office was across the street from Whittier Elementary School. He was a cool guy.” Hile laughs and shakes his head at Rizzo’s memories.“I haven’t a clue why I picked the name Colonials, but I picked the “C” on the cap to model the

Cincinnati Reds. I thought the style was way cool.” As he reminisced about the Colonials, the octogenarian easily slipped back into the vernacular of the day.“Cool” became a popular expression in the 1950s. It was the opposite of “square.” Clairemont, of course, still has a square and it is still recognized as the cultural center of the community. In addition to Rizzo, Jim Clark and Bill Hunt would go on to play baseball for legendary Ernie Beck at Mission Bay High School. Beck transferred to Clairemont when the school opened in 1959. He coached the Chieftains until 1984 and was the winningest high school baseball coach in San Diego County when he retired. Mike Mountain is a name from the Colonials roster that might sound familiar to Clairemont epicureans. Contrary to popular belief, Mountain Mike’s Pizza located in the Clairemont Village is not owned by Mike Mountain. Old-timers remember back when the Colonials were playing, the “Village” shopping center was known as the Clairemont Quad.

2014-15 school year and beyond. Relocatable classrooms will be placed on the Innovation Middle campus to accommodate sixth-grade students until the upgrades and additions to the campus are completed. Both Innovation Middle and CPMA

will maintain their individual academic focus – technology and the arts - while providing students with a comprehensive 6-8-grade experience. Madison High will continue to offer both STEM (Science,Technology, Engineering, Math) and Arts curriculum. More information about the Madison Community of Schools and the upcoming changes can be found on the Madison High School website at www.sandi.net/madison.

Clairemont High School Reunion Class of 2004 by Jillian Vatch

Saturday, Nov. 8th, 2014 7:30-10:30, at Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens Liberty Station. 2816 Historic Decatur Rd #116, San Diego, CA 92106 Tickets: $65 per person..Tickets for the event will include heavy appetizers and desserts as well as a couple drink tickets (beer & wine) per person in a private room, as well as use of one of the bocce ball courts!! **Please bring a plus one if you would like!!- Tickets for two- $130 Here is a link to the facebook group

for more information: https://www.facebook.com/groups/651019584982619/ Payment: Please continue to pay as you can! ( PayPal to chieftains2004@gmail.com, cash or check) If you feel more comfortable making it in two payments, we can do that as well! For Cash or Check payments, please contact the above g-mail account. (Unfortunately, payments are non-refundable) Last day to make payments will be a week or so before the event, this way we can plan accordingly- food, etc.

Mesa College Interior Design Program and Students Win Top NKBA Awards In the course of the past month, the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) -- the industry gold standard in kitchen and bath design -- has recognized the San Diego Mesa College Interior Design Program and its students with some of the bath design industry’s most coveted awards. Mesa College offers the only NKBA-accredited academic program in Southern California. Mesa College was among 17 schools to receive the “2013 Excellence in Education” award for achieving excellence in kitchen design.The annual award recognizes NKBA-accredited schools that have demonstrated the highest standards of kitchen and bath instruction. As part of an annual requirement for accreditation, each school must submit two student-designed kitchen projects and attain the challenging goal of earning average scores of at least 90 out of a possible 100 points on projects designed by their students. Under the direction of program director Holly Hodnick and instructor Helene Lindquist, Mesa student projects scored an average of 94.0 points. Interior design graduates Megan Siason and Jason Wass were also individually recognized by the NKBA. Megan Siason, who works at Marrokal Design & Remodeling, was among 30 exceptional young professionals recognized by the NKBA. Introduced in 2013, the 30 Under 30

program is designed to capture the voice of the next generation of kitchen and bathroom professionals, according to an industry press statement. She received interior design degrees from Mesa College and San Diego State University in 2012. She currently serves as the Communications Director for ASID San Diego. Saison will receive all-expenses paid trip to attend the 2015 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) to Las Vegas in January, where she will receive her award. She is the second Mesa graduate to be named one of NKBA’s rising 30 Under 30 stars.The first was Donna Tran, a 2009 Mesa graduate and designer at Borrelli Design+Cabinet. Jason Wass, of Poway, took second place in the national NKBA Enchanted Makeovers National Student Design Competition, Bath Division. He wins $1500.00 as well as a trip to the KBIS January show.Wass also won the Student Design Award for both his kitchen and bath submissions at the local NKBA chapter STAR awards and gala in September. He graduates from Mesa this semester. “This is a banner year for Mesa’s interior design program, and the accolades are well deserved,” noted Dr. Pamela T. Luster.“It’s a validation of our faculty expertise, our strong curriculum, and the desire and passion of our students to create better living environments.”

14 • The Clairemont Times • November 2014

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