Inland Edition, March 1, 2024

VISTA, SAN MARCOS, ESCONDIDO

TOOLS to succeed Planners OK apartments at retail site

San Marcos Unified apprenticeship program offers construction-minded students a ‘leg up’ on their future. Story on 9.

San Marcos moves to avoid bus-only lanes

By Laura Place SAN MARCOS

— The City Council adopted a new policy on Feb. 13 prohibiting the replacement of vehicle travel lanes or medians with bus-only lanes in response to SANDAG's plans for rapid transit that could run through the city.

The resolution was brought forward at the request of Mayor Rebecca Jones, who expressed concern about the possibility of a bus-only lane being implemented in San Marcos — specifically along San Marcos Boulevard — as part of SANDAG's proposal for rapid transit between Carlsbad and Escondido, outlined in the

well as the proposed rapid transit connection between Carlsbad/San Marcos and Riverside County, the agency is considering the possibility of utilizing bus-only lanes to increase efficiency and convenience.

to move forward with this, given that we were ready to start taking action to bring it forward anyway,” Jones said. “I don’t really want anything outside of San Marcos deciding what we do in our city.”

96-unit complex now goes to Vista council

By Laura Place

VISTA — The city’s Planning Commission has given the green light to a proposed 96-unit apartment complex planned to replace a retail and office building along South Santa Fe Avenue.

The project at 1070 S. Santa Fe Avenue, submitted by developer Ambient Communities, would replace the two-story commercial center known as Monte Vista Plaza with three residential buildings ranging from two to three stories.

Eight of the 96 units are planned to be deed-restricted for very low-income households, or those making up to 50% of the area median income, or AMI.

Robert Honer, principal at Ambient Communities, said the project would “upcycle” the 1980s-era commercial building and continue adding needed housing along the South Santa Fe corridor.

Over the past few years, this corridor has seen the opening of the 126-unit Rylan Apartments at Main Street and the 42-unit Found Lofts at Terrace Drive, as well as the recent approval of the 183-unit Kensho project off Guajome Street.

agency's 2025 Regional Plan initial concept.

For this route, as

While the 2025 Regional Plan is months away from being finalized, and recent SANDAG discussions have also focused on the possibility of shared bus lanes, Jones said she felt compelled to bring forward a policy maintaining local control over bus-only lanes in the city.

“I felt it was important

Approved in a 4-1 vote, the adopted policy prohibits bus-only lanes from replacing a general purpose vehicle lane or substantially modifying or replacing a median; limits bus-only lanes to roadways where sufficient vehicle throughput can be

Super Tuesday

Cheers, Vista!

The last few weeks have been very good for the already very good beer scene in Vista.

Story on 15

Flower power

The team at the Flower Fields in Carlsbad has kept busy getting ready for today’s opening day.

thecoastnews.com

“This will be one of a few new developments in the area,” Honer said. “It’s further down South Santa Fe than a lot of the previous development, so we wanted to design a residential community that continued the vision of the South Santa Fe corridor further east from Vista Village.”

The Planning Commission unanimously approved the project at their Feb. 20 meeting. It will now go to the Vista City Council for review and final approval.

Due to its inclusion of affordable units, the project is eligible for a density bonus that increases the allowed density from 30% to 35%. The project was also granted two concessions, reducing the front and back yard setbacks and a waiver to reduce the required common open space.

Because of the affordable units and the project’s location within a half mile of public tran-

SAN MARCOS HIGH SCHOOL senior Travis Connelly, a student in the construction pathway, works on a shed project on campus Feb. 25. San Marcos Unified is the only district in North County to receive the state’s pre-apprenticeship designation. Photo by Laura Place

EPD video shows fatal shooting

By City News Service

ESCONDIDO — Authorities on Feb. 15 released video footage of two patrol officers’ fatal shooting of a parolee who opened fire on them when they tried to arrest him last fall at an Escondido mobile home park.

Parolee fired at Escondido officers QUINN

The events that led to the deadly law enforcement shootout began shortly after 6:30 a.m. Nov. 3, when a resident of the trailer park in the 2500 block of East Valley Parkway reported that a stranger in a sleeping bag was on her porch, according to Escondido police.

Following a brief argument with the woman, the trespasser, later identified as 48-year-old Douglas Quinn of Indiana, walked over to a nearby parked motorcycle and began pushing it away through the complex.

Escondido police Officers Anthony Lay and Michael Statti arrived a short time later. With their uniform-worn cameras activated, they made contact with Quinn, who told them he had gone to the mobile home park in search of a friend.

In response to the lawmen’s questions, Quinn said he had ridden his motorcycle from the Midwest to the San Diego area in search of work, had spent about 20 years in prison and admitted that he was the subject of a parole-violation arrest warrant issued in his home state.

A short time later, when one of the lawmen told Quinn the officers were “just going to put (him) in (hand)cuffs,” he bolted, pulled a handgun from his waistband, pointed it across his body at the officers while running away and fired several rounds, according to police.

Lay and Statti returned fire, and Quinn collapsed into a hedge alongside a brick perimeter wall. While on the ground, Quinn turned toward the officers, still holding the gun, prompting one of them to fire several more shots at him.

After backup officers arrived, police sent in a service dog to check on Quinn. When he remained motionless, the personnel moved in and performed CPR on him, to no avail. Paramedics then took him to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The video footage is available online at youtube.com/watch?v=RPtgvDUqI7E

Ludacris, Leno headline San Diego County Fair

By Laura Place

DEL MAR — Iconic performers of late-night comedy, rap, Latin music, country rock and more will take the stage at the 2024 San Diego County Fair at the Del Mar Fairgrounds as part of this year’s Toyota Summer Concert Series, with tickets on sale in the coming weeks.

The partial list of performers announced on Wednesday for this year’s fair, which runs June 12 to July 7, includes Grammy-winning rapper Ludacris on June 28 and late-night comedy trio Jay Leno, Craig Ferguson, and Arsenio Hall on June 21.

Other top acts include Grammy winners Old Dominion on June 13, TLC on June 14, and Little Big Town on June 27.

Visitors can also see performances by Pacific Islander reggae singer Kolohe Kai on June 12, Mexican singer Pepe Aguilar on June 16, country rock group Whiskey Meyers on June

19, Mexican group Los Tucanes de Tijuana on June 30, rapper Yung Gravy with country artist Taylor Holder on July 3, and Spanish pop group Hombres G on July 7.

Fairgrounds leaders said the array of acts spanning multiple decades tie into the year’s fair theme, “Let’s Go Retro,” and support their goal of promoting inclusivity and diversity at the fair.

“We’ve just got the most diversity in music you can think of. If anybody’s ever been to the fair, there’s absolutely something for everyone, and we plan it that way on purpose,” said Chief Operations Office Katie Mueller.

The Independence Day Fireworks Spectacular will also take place on July 4.

The 2024 Fair runs for 20 days, Wednesdays through Sundays, between June 12 and July 7. The fair is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

General tickets for

grandstand concerts go on sale March 8 at 10 a.m. at sdfair.com.

Estimated ticket prices for grandstand shows range from $40 to $125, depending on the show. Tickets to any of the shows also include same-day admission to the fair.

The fair also offers free community entertainment at the Paddock Stage throughout its 20-day run, to be announced in the coming months.

Fair hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday, Wednesday and Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

General fair admission can be purchased at a discounted price online or dayof for a slightly higher price. Advance tickets are $13 for youth/seniors and $16 for adults on weekdays, and $17 for youth/seniors and $20 for adults on weekends and July 4.

Admission is always free for children ages five and younger.

San Diego Zoo expecting giant pandas from China

By City News Service REGION — The San Diego Zoo might have to make room for some familiar faces that have been missing for a few years upon news last week of China planning to send over two giant pandas.

China recalled almost all of its pandas that were on loan to zoos in the United States after relations between the two countries soured in recent years. Cooperation between China and the U.S. has led to the possibility of pandas returning to zoos, including the San Diego Zoo.

The potential deal includes China sending pandas to a zoo in Washington, D.C. China is also in discussions to send pandas to zoos in Madrid and Vienna, according to media reports.

If all permits and requirements are approved, the pandas, a male and a female, could arrive in San Diego as early as the end of summer, about five years after the last pandas were sent back to China.

“The return to San Diego of giant pandas is a testament to the nearly 30year partnership the San Diego Zoo and Wildlife Alliance forged with China to successfully protect these magnificent creatures,” said San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria. “I'm pleased this positive relationship and our advocacy have resulted in this major announcement. San Diegans look forward to welcoming the pandas back to America's Finest City.”

The new agreement is rooted in meetings between President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Northern California in November. During the face-to-face meetings, the two presidents discussed ways to ease tensions between the two nations.

Gloria also had multiple meetings with Chinese government and San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance officials to convey support for

the partnership.

There is typically a $1 million per year fee paid by the zoos for two pandas and the money is used for China’s conservation efforts, according to a 2022 report by America’s Congressional Research Service.

One of the pandas China is reportedly considering sending to the San Diego Zoo is a female descendent of Bai Yun and Gao Gao, two pandas that previously were on loan to the San Diego Zoo.

Bai Yun was born in captivity in China and lived at the San Diego Zoo for more than 20 years. She gave birth to six cubs at the zoo. She and one of her sons were the zoo’s last pandas and were returned to China in 2019.

Gao Gao was born in the wild in China and was at the San Diego Zoo for 16 years, from 2003 to 2018, when he was sent back.

China first gifted the U.S. with pandas in 1972, when two were sent to the National Zoo in Washington, D.C. Part of the goal in loaning pandas to zoos in the U.S. was to help breed cubs and boost the population.

Conservation efforts have saved the giant pandas from extinction by increasing the population from fewer than 1,000 to more than 1,800 in the wild and captivity.

Carlsbad building eight new pickleball courts

By Erik P. Gabaldon CARLSBAD

— The City Council approved the design and construction of eight new pickleball courts at two municipal parks during its Feb. 13 meeting, making a total of 14 outdoor courts throughout Carlsbad.

Previously, city staff presented options to construct new outdoor pickleball courts to the Parks & Recreation Commission and the Senior Commission. Both commissions recommended the proposal to construct four new courts at Calavera Hills Community Park and four new courts at Stagecoach Community Park.

“The eight new outdoor pickleball courts are expected to open in about 24 to 28 months and are estimated to cost between $2 million and $2.4 million total,” the

city said.

The new outdoor courts will be new additions to the existing six outdoor courts at Poinsettia Community Park. The proposal was greenlit 3½ after the City Council approved an updated Parks & Recreation Department master plan, which showed pickleball's rising popularity in Carlsbad.

The city's decision to build more pickleball courts comes after months of residents expressing their frustrations over the lack of access to local courts due to the growing popularity of the sport in the city and across North County.

Some locals said that many players visit Carlsbad from neighboring cities to play on the free courts at Poinsettia, and suggested the city create a reservation system that prioritizes

private fees, even though we have courts within walking distance that our tax dollars support.”

The new courts will come equipped with lights for night play and special matting on the perimeter fencing designed to reduce sound. Court hours will be 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., aligning with regular park hours to prevent late-night noise; the courts will be locked overnight.

The city offers indoor pickleball at Calavera Hills Community Center, Pine Avenue Community Center, and Stagecoach Community Center. The city also offers pickleball lessons for adults. Residents can sign up online.

Carlsbad residents. “We live very close to the pickleball courts at Poinsettia Park and have never once been able to use them,” said

resident Melissa Sisco. “On any given evening, 30 to 50 people are waiting. So to play pickleball, we have to drive to other cities and pay

According to the U.S. Pickleball Association, pickleball was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington.

GRAMMY-WINNING rapper Ludacris is among the lineup of artists for the 2024 San Diego County Fair, performing June 28. Courtesy photo

THE NEWS comes about five years after the last pandas were returned to China from San Diego. Courtesy photo

THE CITY plans to build four new outdoor pickleball courts at both Calavera Hills and Stagecoach community parks, bringing the city total to 14 outdoor courts. Stock photo

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Samantha Mason

This is how to bring California rents down

By Mike Weinstein

Rents are falling rapidly in San Francisco as landlords and others flee the city en masse. Prices never have returned to pre-2020 levels.

Is this good news for tenants? Perhaps in the short run, but it is a disaster in the long run. Relying on the market to lower rents, based on mass departures, is utter folly.

The more middle-income people leave the city and shrink the tax base, the heavier the burden for remaining taxpayers who must bear the cost of the city’s neediest residents.

San Francisco’s inability to address its affordable housing crisis will discourage new residents from moving to the Bay Area, weakening the city’s longterm prospects.

Despite the fact that vacancies are increasing, it doesn’t bring rents for much of the housing stock down since corporate developers would rather keep units vacant than lower rents and thus have to mark down the value of these buildings.

When apartments become a tradable commodity rather than a necessity, everyone suffers.

Across our state, the greed of a few corporate developers is destroying the quality of life for everyone. And it is only getting worse.

The various band-aids that have been applied to stop the bleeding are failing miserably. Without rent control, developers are only incentivized to build for the maximum profit that luxury buildings provide.

Rather than seeing housing as a public utility that gives owners a fair return, corporate vultures are bound to pursue outsized profits—adding more yachts to their portfolio.

Ultra-rich corporate executives like Barry Alt-

shuler, who serves as president of the California Apartment Association’s (CAA) board of directors, have amassed tens of billions of dollars in net worth because they are primarily concerned with self-enrichment.

They couldn’t care less about the affordable housing and homelessness crises. And they are fighting rent control because it hurts their bottom line.

Californians are at a fork in the road. We can’t

movement, will once again ask for your vote to allow local communities to enact rent control.

You can be the change that California desperately needs, expanding rent control statewide and bringing prices down.

If, like the majority of California voters, you are a homeowner, why should you care? Because the affordable housing and homelessness crises are destroying the quality of life in our Golden State and

Across our state, the greed of a few corporate developers is destroying the quality of life for everyone. And it’s only getting worse.

have it both ways. If we continue to place the needs of corporate developers above the average person, the human misery on our streets will get worse and the demands on our tax base will become unbearable.

Why should the needs of the one-tenth of 1% take precedent over our whole state? Because corporate real estate maintains an iron grip on California politicians.

The avalanche of CAA money going into politics and lobbying has guaranteed that rent control will die in every session of the legislature and that hundreds of millions of dollars will flow into killing it at the ballot box. The status quo may seem hopeless, but it isn’t.

California voters will have yet another chance to right this wrong in November. A broad coalition of labor unions and housing right advocates, known as the “Justice for Renters”

Is California exodus ending?

Strong signs abound that this year will mark the end of the over-publicized “California exodus,” which saw this state lose about 340,000 persons in 2021 and 2022, a bit less than 1% of its population.

The dates alone give some idea of why this population reduction occurred: They coincide with the nadir of the coronavirus pandemic, when thousands more Californians than usual died and hundreds of thousands of workers were given license to operate from home, wherever they chose to make it.

Some of those factors are now reversing. The virus is now at bay, stymied by a combination of vaccines, boosters and natural forces. No virus wants to kill off all its hosts, thus preventing expansion. So COVID-19 has evolved into something less serious than it was, with a lower percentage of cases than before carrying potential dire outcomes.

Death rates have dropped precipitously, with many hospitals converting their former Covid wards into other functions and treatments like Pfizer’s Paxlovid knocking symptoms back quickly.

At the same time, many employers are asking workers to return at least part-time to offices, so distance between home and office is again a factor in choosing where to live.

All this shows up in new census figures. Yes, California had the lowest in-migration rate in the nation in 2022, with out-ofstaters kept away mostly by sky-high property prices.

high in its coastal areas, where most newcomers prefer to live.

But the in-state migration numbers indicate that once they’ve been here awhile and start to yearn for home ownership, folks are quite likely to move inland, even if the weather is often hotter than near the ocean.

By comparison, Texas had an even lower migration rate than California over the last year on record, with just 11.7% of its moves going out of state (California saw 44,279 persons move in from Texas, the highest from any out-ofstate location, beating out New York state by about 13,000.)

All this also means that the factors behind California’s many decades of steady growth remain in effect: Scenic coastlines, gentle and blizzard-free climates that allow outdoor activity year-round, accessible mountain activities from hiking to skiing, industries like entertainment and electronics and many work openings in agriculture are keeping any massive population drain from lasting long.

So the usual reporting of trends seems to have occurred: They tend to go unnoticed until they’re almost over and beginning to reverse.

with that will come a drop in property values.

Consider your friends, relatives, co-workers, and neighbors who are being squeezed horribly by skyhigh rents. The California dream of home ownership is far too often beyond the reach of police officers, firefighters, teachers and your loved ones.

We may scoff at wonky ballot initiatives that should be resolved through the normal processes of government, but rent control is different. Californians are being held hostage by corporate landlords and their lapdogs in Sacramento.

There is literally no other choice but for California to go to the voters directly. Our state’s future is in your hands.

Michael Weinstein is the president of AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the largest global HIV/AIDS organization.

Only about 11% of those moving to California spots during that last year of severe pandemic came from other states. This meant the vast majority of residential moves were within California.

That did not end the out-migration trend, but slowed it considerably, while making the Inland Empire region of Riverside and San Bernardino counties and the Sacramento into the fastest-growing regions in the state, even as population decreased a bit in coastal areas around San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego.

The big metro areas, of course, are where home prices remain highest while the growth regions see far lower real estate and rental prices.

The actual figures show that about 4 million persons moved in 2022, when the current trends began, with a pretty normal 9% of Californians changing their residences.

California’s in-migration rate was among the nation’s lowest in part because home prices remain

That’s happening right now with office workers. While some of those leaving in 2021-22 went to cheaper, more rural locations like Idaho and Montana, that’s ending as some employers want to see more of their workers in office.

Some who moved to distant points now face the dilemma of how to move back into California if they want to keep high-paying tech jobs.

But new tech workers can find plenty of luxury accommodations close to office areas because of the boom in apartment building spurred by pro-density state laws, combined with a plethora of vacancies in those same areas.

Plus, inflation-boosted pay and a likely easing of interest rates promise soon to make California more affordable.

All of which means that in the long run, the so-called California exodus will likely turn out to be very short-lived, with 2024 promising to be the year it began to peter out.

Email Thomas Elias at tdelias@aol.com.

APARTMENTS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

sit (the Civic Center Vista Sprinter Station), state law only requires that 48 parking spots be provided onsite. However, the developer said so few spaces would not be realistic, so they increased the number to 77 spaces.

However, the developer said so few spaces would not be realistic, so they increased the number to 77 spaces.

Despite this, some commissioners expressed concerns about parking, noting that the number of spots is still lower than the

BUS LANES

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

maintained; and subjects any projects with proposed bus-only lanes to City Council approval.

District 1 Councilmember María Nuñez opposed the policy, saying it could limit the city’s options for supporting rapid bus transit.

“I am in favor of keeping our possibilities open,” Nuñez said. “I’m not sure, by adopting this today, it’s not clear to me what that does to this governing body.”

Various transit advocacy groups in San Diego also opposed the policy, calling it “misguided.”

The Bike Coalition of San Diego County, San Diego Families for Safe Streets, Circulate San Diego, San Diego 350 Climate Change Action, and Ride SD said in a Feb. 13 letter to the city that the policy could

number of units.

“My concern is that you’re going to have parking overflow,” said Commissioner Charles Grimm.

Honer said they attempted to provide as much parking as possible onsite while also providing the desired number of units and noted that there is also parallel parking permitted overnight along South Santa Fe Avenue.

Honer said he also hopes that some residents will take advantage of the nearby public transit rather than having a car.

The three planned buildings will be designed to follow the natural grad-

risk potential state funding for needed rapid transit projects like the Riverside County connector.

“For this project and others like it to succeed, the City of San Marcos must provide the most efficient service made possible by dedicated bus lanes,” the letter said. “A Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line and dedicated bus lanes with frequent, reliable service will provide equitable transportation options for transit-dependent residents and choice riders, improving travel for remaining drivers.”

The letter noted that Jones expressed support for the Riverside County connector at the Feb. 9 meeting of the SANDAG board, where she stated that it would also benefit CSU San Marcos, Palomar Hospital, and Kaiser Permanente.

Jones and other council members said they are in favor of bus rapid transit,

ing of the 2.3-acre site, which features a drastic north-to-south slope.

One individual, who said she represents the property owners directly north of the project site, expressed concern about how things will look at the back of the building where the slope bank rises to the neighboring properties.

“I think a lot of these plans don’t show any real visibility on what’s happening to the rear of that property, and all those homeowners back there to Alta Calle,” said Laura Brown. “This is not a good situation for our properties.”

Honer said they are

which Caltrans characterizes as a transit system that can provide “the quality of rail transit and the flexibility of buses” via infrastructure improvements such as exclusive right of way, limited stops, and prepaid fares to improve efficiency and effectiveness.

However, they said eliminating an existing general traffic lane for a bus-only lane on a busy road like San Marcos Boulevard, which ranges from four to six lanes, could be disastrous.

Many residents have already expressed concerns about traffic in the area, and the road cannot be widened to regain a vehicle lane in many areas due to the proximity of businesses to the roadway.

“I think giving up a lane as it sits right now, with the current configuration, would be a huge mistake, for our residents,” said Coun-

2024 Primary: Races to watch

By Laura Place REGION — The

2024 Primary Election takes place March 5. North County voters are facing decisions about presidential candidates, a state measure regarding funding for homelessness and addiction treatment, and several candidates for Congressional, State Assembly and State Senate seats.

In most races, the primary will allow voters to narrow down the candidates in various races to determine the top two vote-getters that will face off in the November election. However, in the case of Proposition 1, its fate will be decided once and for all at the primary.

In the city of San Diego, the primary will also decide a city measure and several special elections.

Residents who have already received their ballots can vote by mail or by submitting their ballot at a drop box location. Individuals can also vote in person on March 5 at one of several vote centers throughout the county. More information about the primary is available at sdvote.com.

Here is more information about the candidates for races in North County San Diego, as well as Proposition 1.

didate Lucinda KWH Jahn, an entertainment technician, is also running.

Houlahan, Rascon and Jahn also ran against Issa in the 2022 election. Only Houlahan advanced from the 2022 primary to the general election, earning just under 40% of the vote compared to Issa’s 60%.

49th Congressional District Rep. Mike Levin (D-San Juan Capistrano) is running for re-election against four Republican challengers — car dealership owner Matt Gunderson, former auto industry executive Sheryl Adams, Marine veteran Kate Monroe, and marketing executive Margarita Wilkinson.

Gunderson also ran for the 38th State Senate District seat in 2022 against Sen. Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas).

One of the most competitive Congressional seats, the district covers coastal North San Diego County and South Orange County from Del Mar to Laguna Niguel. It also includes Vista.

planning to leave the slope with its native vegetation, as it includes sensitive plant species, and don’t plan to do any further landscaping.

The project includes four studios, 58 one-bedroom units, 36 two-bedroom units, and two three-bedroom units. Honer said while it may draw some families, the development is mostly geared toward couples, roommates, or single occupants in their 20s and 30s.

The eight affordable units will be spread throughout the development and be of the same quality as the market-rate units, Honer said.

48th Congressional District

Rep. Darrel Issa (R-Vista) is running for re-election against a slew of Democratic candidates to represent the 48th district, representing inland North County and East County as well as part of Riverside County.

Challengers in the primary include Democrat Stephen Houlahan, a registered nurse; Democrat Matthew Rascon, a community volunteer; Democrat and reproductive healthcare advocate Whitney Shanahan; and Democrat Mike Simon, an energy technology entrepreneur. Independent can-

cilmember Sharon Jenkins. While replacing medians with bus-only lanes would avoid the issue of eliminating a current vehicle lane, Jones said she is also opposed to this, as the city’s medians provide beauty to the city with their landscaping and trees. She also pushed back

against the letter from several regional organizations, stating that San Marcos should have control over its roadways.

“I don’t want us to become like San Diego, where many of these folks are from, where they don’t have any medians and it’s a lot of asphalt,” Jones said. “Local

74th Assembly District Incumbent Assemblymember Laurie Davies (R-Laguna Niguel) is running for re-election against Democratic challenger and San Clemente Mayor Chris Duncan. Since there are just two candidates in the race, Duncan is likely to advance to face off against Davies in November.

The two also battled it out in 2022, with Davies earning over 52% of the vote compared to Duncan’s 47%.

The 74th District covers Oceanside, Vista, Camp Pendleton, small parts of Bonsall and Fallbrook, and southern Orange County.

75th Assembly District

The primary will narrow down the six candi-

TURN TO PRIMARY ON 10

control is definitely the best way, in my opinion.”

However, residents have also shared concerns about the impacts of the policy. During public comment, resident Paul Mendoza said the city should not prematurely rule out any options for improved transit.

City staff said under the policy, any proposal for a bus lane on a city-owned roadway must come before the council for approval. However, there is no guarantee that the policy will supersede future state or regional mandates regarding transit.

“This is a policy — it’s an uncodified expression of local policy and objectives. So, in terms of the strength of this versus a state or regional action that ties money to taking their conditions and requirements, I don’t really lay odds on the local policy,” said City Attorney Helen Holmes Peak.

A CONCEPTUAL rendering of a curbside bus-only lane presented to the San Marcos City Council. Courtesy photo/NACTO

A RENDERING, top, of the 96-unit apartment project proposed to replace the Monte Vista Plaza, above, on S. Santa Fe Avenue, approved by the Vista Planning Commission on Feb. 20. Courtesy photos/LPA/LoopNet

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FOOD EQUITY

Michael Christensen of Encinitas was recently awarded the Passion for Public Service Scholarship from National Society of High School Scholars, a national scholarship recognizing his food equity advocacy. Through his involvement with the Federal Plant-based School Food Advocacy coalition, Michael meets with staffers from the executive office, the Education and Workforce Committee, the US Department of Agriculture and others to work on policy that makes plant-based foods accessible to students in public schools.

NEW ENROLLEE

Cristiane Gilligan of Carlsbad is one of more than 200 new students who enrolled at SUNY Delhi in New York this semester. Gilligan is pursuing a degree in culinary arts management.

DEAN’S LIST

The following students made the dean’s list at their respective universities:

Evan Estrada of Rancho Santa Fe, Anna Liu of San Marcos, Devon Owen and Serena Herold of Encini-

Sobriety festival coming to O’side

By Staff OCEANSIDE — The family of the late Bradley Nowell, front man for the band Sublime, will host “A Sublime Life,” the first annual sobriety festival on May 11 at the Oceanside Civic Center.

The Nowell Family Foundation, a nonprofit organization, was formed by Bradley Nowell’s father, Jim “Papa” Nowell, and sister, Kellie Nowell. Longtime family friend Todd "Z-Man" Zalkins, who helped Bradley’s son, Jakob Nowell, get clean and sober was also a major contributor.

and wellness programs and guest speakers.

The sobriety festival will be free to the public from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

A ticketed benefit concert called the “Sublime Family Jam” will follow for the Nowell Family Foundation from 5 to 10 p.m. at the Oceanside Museum of Art. The concert will feature live performances from Jakob Nowell, Eric Wilson of Sublime, Scott Woodruff of Stick Figure and Bradley’s widow, Troy Dendekker, will be headlined along with the tribute band Burritos.

tas at Tufts University in Massachusetts; Edward Calderon of Camp Pendleton, Fidel Menyongai and Christopher Cohoon of San Marcos, Yvonne Maki and Brian Moran of Oceanside at the University of Maryland Global Campus; Madison Scherner of Carlsbad at Bryant University in Rhode Island; and Joshua Bourgeot of Encinitas and Levi Wyns of Oceanside at Rochester Institute of Technology in New York.

HEALTH JUSTICE

Deysi Merino-Gonzalez, program manager for migrant health and outreach at Vista Community Clinic, was honored as the 2023 recipient of the Kugel

and Zuroweste Health Justice Award.

INFLUENCER AWARD

Escondido’s San Pasqual High School teachers Eddie Rodriguez and Carol Byrnes were honored with the Impact Influencer Award from the U.S. Navy for helping former student Seaman Recruit Cameron Valles, who has been selected for the Navy’s Hospital Corpsman Program, throughout his high school career.

TOP VOLUNTEER

Mike Tenhover was named the 2023 volunteer of the year by the San Diego Habitat Conservancy for his work restoring the 77-acre

GREEN CONVENE

The Solana Center for Environmental Innovation is expanding Green Convene, its reusable dishware rental program, after receiving a grant from the city of Encinitas.

SAFETY AWARD

The San Elijo Joint Powers Authority received the Workers’ Compensation Excellence award from the California Sanitation Risk Management Authority and was recognized as Safety Plant of the Year by the San Diego Chapter of the California Water Environment Association.

The foundation’s goals are to bring awareness and treatment of addiction and to strengthen mental health in local communities. As part of its goals, the foundation established “Bradley’s House,” an elevated sobriety home for recovering musicians phased to become a full-service residential treatment campus.

The sobriety festival in Oceanside will consist of providing resources for those recovering from addiction by government and nonprofit organizations, live music and art, health

Special guest performances will be announced leading up to the event. A rare museum exhibition of unique Sublime memorabilia will be on display as well as an intimate presentation of the Nowell Family Foundation.

Tickets for the concert are available at www. eventbrite.com (search “Sublime Family Jam,” with early bird pricing starting at $95.

More information on the Nowell Family Foundation can be found at www. thenowellfamilyfoundation. org.

spective

What

Delivering a $1,000,000 check to someone who just lost their home in fire.

What motivated you to join The San Marcos Chamber? Enjoy supporting local Chamber – supporting Businesses in San Marcos.

What are you looking forward to accomplishing with the Chamber? Enjoy the personal / professional interactions with local business leaders.

What’s your best piece of business advice? Balance, Balance, Balance: Work hard and Play hard — remember ALL work and No Play makes life no fun.

Website: jpennock7.wixsite.com/website

Facebook: Jim Pennock Insurance Agency

Man gets nearly 16 years for 2021 fatal DUI crash

By City News Service VISTA — A man convicted of driving drunk and in the wrong direction on a North County highway, causing a fatal head-on crash into another vehicle, was sentenced Feb. 21 to nearly 16 years in state prison.

Robert Nicholas Spence, 39, was charged with murder, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and DUI counts for the Jan. 3, 2021, crash that killed 24-year-old Danielle Foust on state Route 78 in Vista. Both Spence and Foust were hospitalized, and Foust later died in a hospital.

At Spence's arraignment, Deputy District Attorney David Uyar said the

defendant had a blood-alcohol level of nearly 0.24% shortly after the crash, which is three times the legal limit.

The prosecutor said police received multiple 911 calls from witnesses who saw the defendant driving the wrong way and crashing into the highway’s cement center median prior to the fatal crash. Prosecutors were able to charge Spence with murder due to a prior 2017 San Diego County DUI conviction.

A Vista jury convicted Spence of some of the counts but hung on murder. He later pleaded guilty to other charges and was sentenced to a stipulated 15 years and eight months in prison.

JIM PENNOCK of Pennock Insurance Agency in San Marcos. Courtesy photo

Wanis View Preserve near his home in Oceanside.

THE VISTA CHAMBER of Commerce announced the following students as its February Rising Stars: Valeria Perez Martin of Guajome Park Academy, Mekhi Harris of Trade Tech High School, Belen Sanchez of Mission Vista High School, Noelani Hall of Rancho Buena Vista High School, David Guevara of General Raymond Murray High School and Melody Hernandez Solorio of Vista High School. Courtesy photo

SUBLIME FRONTMAN Bradley Nowell in 1995 with son Jakob.

Nowell died of a heroin overdose in 1996. Courtesy photo

Padres turning the page

sports talk

jay paris

Don’t tell us what the Padres are without; let’s embrace what they possess.

Don’t remind us that a three-season window of chasing a title has closed, one that included big-name talent making big-time money.

Do remind us that the late and beloved Peter Seidler, the team’s former owner and the gentleman responsible for flipping the Padres’ small-market, low-expectation narrative, would lead the Cactus League in optimism.

And it wouldn’t even be close.

The eternally upbeat

Seidler is gone, but not the sunny vibe that clung to him like his oversized heart.

Seidler is peering down from above, eager to cheer a team that still has star power, and a bevy of fresh faces, as it aims to slay the dragon up north, the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Baseball is here, finally, and it’s not the time to wal-

low about missed opportunities and what-might-havebeen.

Did the Padres take a massive swing-and-miss when their roster included standouts in outfielder Juan Soto, left-hander Blake Snell and closer Josh Hader? A $250 million squad assembled under a three-time manager of the year in Bob Melvin.

Without a doubt, and that fab four moved on.

But if Padres fans are spending days in the past,

they’re missing the greatest gift baseball offers — the present and the uncertainty of the future.

The sound of ball meeting bat and the sights of a spring afternoon in Peoria get San Diego fans through a long, wet winter — this winter anyway.

The spring training complex is alive in Arizona, as the Padres try to raise their standing.

Last year was a disas-

Beginning April 1, 2024, residents and businesses in the Cities of Oceanside and Vista will be automatically enrolled in Clean Impact Plus, Clean Energy Alliance’s (CEA) 50% renewable and 75% carbon-free energy plan. Customers can choose to opt up to Green Impact, CEA’s 100% renewable energy plan, or opt down to Clean Impact, CEA’s 50% renewable energy option. Customers may also choose to opt out and remain with SDG&E.

THE 2024 Padres feature a mix of old and new. Here, veteran Yu Darvish stands with fellow pitcher Yuki Matsui, a free agent signee. Photo via X

Lodge a perfect gateway to Torrey Pines State Reserve

hit the road

Joe Vasquez has come full circle.

The University City resident was in the third grade when his class took a field trip to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and he was completely enchanted by the experience.

“I said, ‘Hey, this is what I want to do — work outside,’” he says as he leads us on a walk through the reserve on this drizzly February day. “'This is what I want to do as a job someday.’”

Vasquez followed through on his dream and eventually spent 32 years as a city, state and federal park ranger. Now, at 66, he comes to work at what is arguably one of the best offices anywhere — the five-star Lodge at Torrey Pines and the 2,000-acre reserve that hugs the spectacular La Jolla coastline. Thanks to early San Diegan and philanthropist Ellen Browning Scripps (1836-1932), who gave this land to the City of San Diego, this little strip of pristine coast should remain forever unspoiled.

We meet Vasquez in the spacious but invitingly cozy lodge lobby, and head north on a paved walk toward the

reserve. On our left though the heavy mist: the Pacific and the spectacular cityowned Torrey Pines Golf Course. Even non-golfers are dazzled by these 192 emerald acres that stretch from the reserve on the north to the Salk Institute on the south. A sign marks our entrance to the reserve; a second sign tells us that we are walking on the old Torrey Pines Park Road, now on the National Register of Historic Places. A light rain does little to dampen Vasquez’s enthusiasm. Oddly, his official title at the lodge is spa attendant, but the job comes with the

duty of leading twice-daily walks for guests through the reserve. His ranger background gives him plenty of material for his narrations about the rare and endangered Torrey pine, the area’s other native flora and fauna, and San Diego history.

Vasquez also emphasizes the difference between a park and a reserve.

“A reserve is not a park,” he says. “There are a lot more restrictions in a reserve. It’s a lot more protected than a park.” (Of the 279 “units” in the California State Park System, only 14 are reserves and Torrey Pines is one of them.)

Most of the trails today are closed due to the previous week’s heavy rains, but there still is plenty to see, especially the views from several overlooks. These views so clearly illustrate the contrast between the reserve, which would have been developed without Scripps’ generosity, and the millions of once-pristine acres that have become a scramble of homes, commercial property and multi-lane freeways.

Vasquez must return to the lodge, so we explore further on our own, stopping to see the 100-year-old Visitor Center Ranger Station. As we return south to the lodge,

the sun breaks through, and golfers and paragliders from Torrey Pines Glider Port waste no time in taking to the greens and the skies.

After our 4-mile walk, we don’t feel guilty about claiming a couple of rockers situated at the lobby’s large picture windows and taking in the character of the lodge. Built in the early-California craftsman style that was popular during Scripps’ middle years, the 20002002 remodel brought in many unique features like the 200-plus Tiffany-inspired lamps that accent the lobby and guest rooms.

The hotel’s signature

restaurant, A.R. Valentien, overlooks the 18th hole and displays the pottery, paintings and publications of Albert Robert Valentien (1862–1925), an artist and naturalist commissioned by Scripps to create “plant portraits” of California’s native plants, flowers and grasses.

Dinner here is not to be a rushed affair, and the restaurant’s reputation makes reservations a must. Also, Chef Kelli Crosson can adapt some of the menu offerings to special dietary needs.

For more photos and discussion, visit www.facebook.com/elouise.ondash.

RAIN, WIND, AND FIRE...

“ The three menaces to any chimney, fireplace, or stove.”

Every year there are over twenty thousand chimney/ fireplace related house fires in the US alone. Losses to homes as a result of chimney fires, leaks and wind damage exceeds one hundred million dollars annually in the US.

CHIMNEY SWEEPS, INC., one of San Diego’s leading chimney repair and maintenance companies, is here to protect you and your home from losses due to structural damage and chimney fires.

Family owned and operated and having been in business for over 30 years, Chimney Sweeps Inc. is a fully licensed and insured chimney contracting company (License #976438) and they are certified with the National Fireplace Institute and have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

For a limited time, readers of this paper will receive a special discount on our full chimney cleaning and safety inspection package with special attention to chimney water intrusion points in preparation for the rainy season.

THE LODGE at Torrey Pines hugs the San Diego City-owned Torrey Pines Golf Course, which is dotted with the rare pines. The endangered species grows only on this section of California coast and on Santa Rosa Island in the Channel Islands chain. At right, University City resident Joe Vasquez leads guests at the Lodge at Torrey Pines on guided hikes through Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Courtesy photo/Photo by E’Louise Ondash

e’louise ondash

SMUSD construction apprenticeship

By Laura Place

SAN

MARCOS

— High school students pursuing a career in construction will have a more direct path into apprenticeship programs post-graduation, thanks to a new designation granted to the San Marcos Unified School District.

Beginning next fall, the district will offer a registered Pre-Apprenticeship Program with the Associated General Contractors of San Diego, allowing students in the district’s construction pathway to earn the work experience hours needed for an apprenticeship while still in high school.

“Having our Construction Pathway receive the Pre-Apprenticeship designation means that students looking for high-paying jobs in the construction field will be able to take appropriate coursework while in high school and simultaneously earn 180 hours of experience in a trade,” said Nicole DiRanna, director of K-12 Equitable Curriculum and Instruction.

“Many of the students in our construction courses are looking for apprenticeship programs when they graduate; this allows them to get a jump start on their career goals.”

Chris Geldert, advanced manufacturing and construction teacher at San Marcos High School, said the designation builds off the construction program’s existing relationship with

the Associated General Contractors (AGC).

As part of this existing relationship, professionals from companies like Baker Electric regularly come to campus or host students at their facilities to teach them about different industries and trades.

“It allows us to align with the AGC and allows us to strengthen our relationship with them. They’re very integral to providing support and teaching the kids,” said Geldert.

Students in the con-

struction pathway at San Marcos High School have access to an impressive curriculum, training them for possible careers as carpenters, electricians, plumbers, construction managers, and more.

In recent years, students in the program have built accessory dwelling units and tiny homes for community members. Seven students in the program are also preparing to represent their school at the Southern California CIEF Design Build Competition

in April, where they will build a 96-square-foot shed over a period of two days.

One of these students, junior Nina Crespo, has been in the program for three years and plans to take an apprenticeship in construction right after graduation. Crespo was shuffled into the program somewhat accidentally his freshman year, but said he fell in love with it.

“It’s very student-led, and you do all your own work. Mr. Geldert teaches you how to do things, but

he doesn’t do them for you,” said Crespo, 16. “It definitely teaches you problem-solving.”

The California Department of Industrial Relations has approved a pre-apprenticeship designation for only one district in North County — San Marcos Unified. The designation marks the latest boost to SMUSD’s Career Technical Education Program, which offers training in trades such as healthcare, engineering, culinary arts, computer science, and more.

According to Geldert,

apprenticeship programs can be very competitive and take a long time to be accepted. Getting to connect with professionals and build experience while in high school will make that much easier for San Marcos students, he said.

“If you talk to a lot of apprentices statewide or journeymen, they’ll say, ‘I wish I would’ve gotten in that path earlier,’” Geldert said. “This gives them a little bit of a leg up. It’s going to make the transition so much easier for them.”

STUDENTS in the construction pathway at San Marcos High School include, from left, Nina Crespo, Caiden Abril, Ciara Francis and Aaron Coudoux, pictured Feb. 25 with teacher Chris Geldert. At right, San Marcos High construction student Alexandra Ahadian works on a tiny home being built on campus in February. Photo by Laura Place/Photo courtesy SMUSD

dates that are vying for the 75th District seat, representing inland San Diego County including parts of Fallbrook, Bonsall, Valley Center, Ramona and Poway. Republican candidates include Carl DeMaio, a former San Diego City Councilmember and the chairman of Reform California; biotech entrepreneur Jack Fernandes; and Lakeside Union School District board president Andrew Hayes.

Democratic candidates for the 75th district are retired government employee Joy Frew, teacher Christie Dougherty, and small business owner Kevin Juza.

Incumbent Assemblymember Marie Waldron (R-Escondido) is not seeking re-election due to term limits.

76th AssemblyDistrict

The three candidates in the competitive 76th Assembly race are Republican Kristie Bruce-Lane, Democrats Darshana Patel and Democrat Joseph Rocha.

This is Bruce-Lane’s second time running to represent the 76th District, after a close race against Democratic incumbent Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) in 2022. She is the former board director for the Olivenhain Municipal Water District and the founder of child homelessness and domestic violence nonprofit The Thumbprint Project Foundation.

Rocha, a veteran of the Navy and Marines, also ran a State Senate bid for the 40th District in 2022 but

lost to Republican Brian Jones. Patel is a research scientist currently serving as a Poway Unified School District board member and San Diego County School Boards Association president.

Maienschein has termed out of his state seat, but is a candidate for San Diego City Attorney in the primary.

77th Assembly District

Incumbent Assemblymember Tasha Boerner (D-Encinitas) is running for her fourth term against Democrat Henny Kupferstein, an autism researcher, and Republican entrepreneur James Browne.

The 77th district encompasses Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Del Mar, La Jolla and Coronado.

39th Senate District

Candidates for the 39th Senate District Seat include Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa), who currently represents the 79th State Assembly District, and Republican Bob Divine, a retired Navy Commander.

Incumbent Senate

President Pro Tem Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) is not running for re-election, and is instead looking ahead to a recently-announced run for California Governor in 2026.

The 39th Senate District represents most of the city of San Diego as well as Coronado, Del Mar, Solana Beach and parts of Rancho Santa Fe.

Proposition 1

The only statewide

measure on the March 5 ballot, Proposition 1 proposes changing how funding for state mental health treatment is allocated and borrowing over $6 billion in bond funds for new housing units and mental health and addiction treatment beds.

The controversial measure encompasses two pieces of legislation signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom last year. The final decision will be left to voters due to the high amount of proposed bond funds.

If passed, the state would have more control over how counties spend their current mental health tax funds from Prop 63, requiring a greater focus on individuals with serious mental health and substance use issues.

The $6.3 billion in borrowed funds would be used to add 6,800 mental health and addiction treatment beds and build around 4,300 housing units, with half reserved for veterans.

Proponents of Prop 1 include Newsom, the National Alliance on Mental Illness California, and locally, a majority of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, who say it will bring needed change to the current mental health system and effectively address the homelessness crisis.

Opponents of the measure, including the ACLU of California and various disability and mental health rights organizations, say it is too expensive and would cut essential funding for mental health and housing initiatives.

State legislators target rail revival

By Laura Place REGION

— State Sen. Catherine Blakespear longside other state lawmakers announced new legislation Feb. 13 to revitalize the 351-mile LOSSAN Rail Corridor via a more coordinated response between state and local leaders.

In the absence of strong state leadership to address issues with rail, the proposed Senate Bill 1098 tasks the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) and the State Secretary of Transportation to lead this process with the support of regional agencies.

Specifically, the legislation requires CalSTA to create a clear list of prioritized projects along the corridor and recommendations for needed policy changes.

The proposed bill also clarifies the role of the State Secretary of Transportation, which is to manage and lead stakeholders to support the corridor.

The bill also directs four metropolitan planning organizations along the corridor — SANDAG, the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments, Santa Barbara County Association of Governments, and Southern California Association of Governments — to recommend legislative changes to facilitate better management and governance.

“The bill we’ve introduced today takes our request for state leadership and aligns it with a locally-driven process to coordinate a response. The success of the corridor relies on both state and local action, and this bill accomplishes that goal,” said Blakespear, D-Encinitas.

Blakespear’s announcement at the State Capitol came as the LOSSAN (Los Angeles-San Luis Obispo-San Diego) corridor entered its third week of closure between San Diego and Orange counties due to a landslide in San Clemente, with no confirmed reopening date. Caltrans issued an emergency declaration for the landslide on Feb. 1.

As of Feb. 16, the Orange County Transit Au-

Rents rise at mobile home park

By Samantha Nelson ESCONDIDO

— The City Council approved a rent increase for Casa Grande Mobile Estates on the condition that park owners and management meet with city planning staff to discuss the installation of a security gate at the front entrance.

The owners of Casa Grande requested a 5.74% increase in rent for 101 spaces in the senior mobile home community located at 1001 S. Hale Avenue through a short-form application, which would result in an average space increase of $34.58 per month. City staff said this percentage was the maximum amount the park requested per city law.

ed to nearly $100,000 for the park.

According to Henry and Park Manager Becky Bonamici, the park has begun looking into quotes for a new gate and the process for installing the gates.

“We have to first draw up plans, we have to go to the planning committee, we have to go to the fire department or utilities to see if we are even able to put some kind of security gate in front of our park, so we’re just in the beginning stages of those discussions,” Bonamici said. “The owner is not opposed to it, we just have to do our homework before we can present that to all the entities that need to know about it.”

thority had secured $7.2 million from the California Transit Commission to fund a catchment retaining wall to stop the slope from moving toward the rail.

Leaders said this is the fifth rail closure in San Clemente in the past two years, illustrating an untenable situation for the corridor.

“We cannot accept that track closures and service disruptions are a regular part of operating rail service in Southern California,” Blakespear said.

The bill follows up on the work completed by the Senate Transportation Subcommittee on LOSSAN Rail Corridor Resiliency, chaired by Blakespear, over the past year.

The bipartisan bill is co-authored by state Sens. Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica), Monique Limón (D-Santa Barbara), Josh Newman (D-Fullerton), Tom Umberg (D-Santa Ana), and Assemblymembers Laurie Davies (R-Laguna Niguel), Diane Dixon (R-Newport Beach) and Gregg Hart (D-Santa Barbara).

“It’s clear at this point that there must be a more active effort at the state level in shaping the LOSSAN corridor’s future,” Newman said. “If we hope to get more people out of their cars and onto our trains, we need to build a faster, more frequent and more reliable rail corridor, one that doesn’t close in the face of extreme weather and where delays and repairs are the exception rather than the norm.”

While passenger service continues to be closed between San Diego and Orange counties, BNSF freight service can resume at 10 mph.

In late January, the LOSSAN corridor was also added to the federal Corridor Identification and Development (ID) program, which facilitates identifying projects for strategically important rail corridors nationwide.

The corridor saw an estimated ridership of around 4 million passengers in 2023, less than half of pre-pandemic levels.

Mobile home park owners must submit an application to the city requesting a rent increase under Proposition K, a mobile home rent control measure that voters approved in 1988.

A 1997 update to the law allows park owners to submit a short-form application — a less burdensome process for both park owners and city staff — in which the owner can request a rent increase based solely on the change in the San Diego Metropolitan Area’s Consumer Price Index. Under this application, the increase cannot be higher than 90% of the CPI increase since the last rent increase application was granted, or 8% of the current rent, whichever is less, and is subject to a two-year limit.

Park owners can apply for a rent increase one year after the last application was submitted. Casa Grande was previously approved for a rent increase in 2021 based on a 68.5%

change in the CPI, resulting in an average monthly increase of $15.16 per space.

Evelyn Langston, a 20-year park resident, requested a compromise of a 50% CPI change or 2.86% rent increase in addition to several improvements that residents had requested, including the installation of a security gate at the park’s front entrance, SDG&E smart meters, new washers and dryers and a resident suggestion box.

“In other words, both owners and residents give and take a little,” Langston said.

The City Council ultimately decided to grant 3% of the requested increase, with the remaining 2.74% contingent upon park representatives meeting with planning staff within 90 days to discuss the security gate.

Park management must give the affected residents a 90-day notice of a rent increase before it can

Brenda Kaye Johansen Vista February 14, 2024

John W Thomas Jr San Marocs February 17, 2024

Jean Wood Bradford Oceanside February 11, 2024

Joseph Pimkowski Oceanside February 12, 2024

go into effect. According to City Clerk Zack Beck, the earliest the rent increase could be implemented is May 22.

Nicole Henry, regional manager with Newport Pacific real estate company, who represented the park owners at the Feb. 21 council meeting, noted the park already has upcoming projects planned, including new fencing around the RV storage area, replacing mailboxes, pool resurfacing and installing a new double drain.

Additional ongoing maintenance, such as tree and lighting care, regular landscaping and pest management, as well as finished projects such as renovating the clubhouse bathrooms, applying fresh paint and flooring in the laundry room, enhancing fencing and landscaping at the park’s entrance, installing new appliances in the clubhouse, and sealing cracks, collectively amount-

Bonamici also mentioned that the park has tested its washers and dryers to ensure they meet operational standards. She said the washers are energy-efficient and only fill up halfway with water, which might be why residents have requested new ones.

Additionally, Bonamici said the park already has a resident suggestion box in the clubhouse underneath the bulletin board with park emergency route maps. There are also complaint forms in the front office.

Before staff recommended approval of the rent increase, the park was inspected for violations that must be corrected before a rent increase goes into effect.

Code enforcement found four lighting violations and three general park violations in the common area of the mobile home park on Jan. 22. Staff later returned on Feb. 8 and found that all of the violations were corrected.

A

a wide range of purposes, with religious, psychological and physical significances. Whether you choose burial or cremation, there are many aspects and details to a meaningful service - the celebration of the life of a loved one - that are arranged with the assistance and guidance of a caring and professional funeral director or arrangement counselor.

Most of the time, these services are provided at the time of need. However, many people prefer to arrange everything prior to need because this allows decisions to be thought out ahead of time and made without the stress of a recent death.

We are happy to answer all your questions and to provide information, without any obligation, on preplanning and/or prepayment options.

We have answers for your questions. Please feel welcome to contact us at your convenience to schedule an appointment.

THE CITY COUNCIL OK’d a rent increase for Casa Grande Mobile Estates at 1001 S. Hale Ave. Photo by Samantha Nelson

CREWS REMOVE soil and debris above the closed rail line on Feb. 15 in San Clemente. Passenger service has been closed since Jan. 24. Courtesy photo/OCTA

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EVENTS CALENDAR

MARCH 1

‘CURIOUS INCIDENT ...’

Winner of the 2015 Tony Award for Best New Play, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” is an adaptation of Mark Haddon’s best-selling novel. $35-$85, showing at various times from Feb. 16 to March 3 at the California Center for the Arts, 340 N Escondido Blvd, Escondido.

GEM FAIRE RETURNS

America’s Best Gem & Jewelry Show. Free-$7, 12-6 p.m. March 1-3 at Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar.

VISTA GARDEN CLUB

Laura Eubanks from Design for Serenity will speak about designing with succulents in the garden. She is an internationally acclaimed succulent designer, YouTube content creator and master gardener. 1:30 p.m. at Jim Porter Recreation Center, 1200 Vale Terrace Dr, Vista.

BOARD GAME NIGHT

Bring your friends and family to this intergenerational event (ages 13+) and come play Game of Life, Trivial Pursuit, and Scrabble. Snacks will be provided. You must register to attend: events.aarp.org/event/6dc3536b-ad52-4b67-ba70ad7122dc45b7/summary.

Free, 4 to 6 p.m. at Studio ACE, 3861 Mission Ave, Oceanside.

THE FLOWER FIELDS

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch are set to bloom back to life beginning March 1. Tickets $9-$18, available online only. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. starting March 1 at The Flower Fields, 5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad.

LIVE STAND UP

Hollywood Showcase

Show with five amazing comedians featured on Comedy Central and DryBar Comedy. 6:30 p.m. at Grand Comedy Club, 340 E Grand Ave, Escondido.

EVERYTHING DISSOLVES

Kline Swonger is a cross-disciplinary artist whose research and sculptural work revolves around perception and psychology of space. The gallery will be held from Feb. 6 to March 1 at the Kruglak Art Gallery (Bldg 3400) on the MiraCosta campus in Oceanside. MiraCosta College, 1 Barnard Dr, Oceanside.

MARCH 2

JASON LAWHEAD

Join us in Escondido to watch Jason Lawhead and Friends! (The Mightier 1090 AM, Espn Radio, Kaplan and Crew) with John Browner, Victoria Parra and Conner Costello. Doors open at 6 p.m. on March 2 at Grand Comedy Club, 340 E Grand Ave, Escondido.

breweries and wineries. $95-$185, 12-5 p.m. March 3 at Lakehouse Hotel & Resort, 1105 La Bonita Dr, San Marcos.

MARCH 4

LOVING, FOG LAKE

Catch lo-fi duo Loving and alternative Fog Lake at Belly Up. $20, 8 p.m. at Belly Up, 160 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach.

ED KORNHAUSER QUARTET

Immerse yourself in an evening of jazz as CSUSM proudly welcomes award-winning pianist Ed Kornhauser to campus. Free-$5, 7:30-11 p.m. March 4 at California State University San Marcos, Arts Building 111, 333 S Twin Oaks Valley Rd, San Marcos.

RED HOT PATRIOT

PASSPORT FAIR

The Escondido Post Office is hosting a Passport Fair where postal employees will accept applications for U.S. passports. 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. March 2 at Escondido Post Office , 1157 W Mission Ave, Escondido.

‘ANYTHING GOES’

Cole Porter’s classic musical, “Anything Goes,” is set to take the stage at MiraCosta College. The show features beloved hits like “I Get a Kick Out of You,” “You’re the Top,” and the title song. $20, 2 p.m. at MiraCosta College, 1 Barnard Dr, Oceanside.

HATS OFF TO READING DAY

Celebrate Hats Off to Reading Day with a socially distanced visit from Super Why, storytimes, book giveaways and special activities throughout the museum. Free with museum admission. 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. March 2 at San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum, 320 N Broadway, Escondido.

YACHT ROCK GALA

Join us in celebrating The Boys & Girls Club of Vista’s 14th annual Yacht Rock Gala with live music, silent and live auctions, prizes, merchandise, dancing and more. $250, 5:30 p.m. at Westin Carlsbad, 5480 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad.

MARCH 3

PETER SPRAGUE TRIO

Award-winning jazz guitarist/composer Peter Sprague teams up with pianist Danny Green and bassist Mack Leighton to play music that jumps around jazz, samba, Beatles, tango, Carole King, Hoagy Carmichael, John Coltrane and more. Free, 2-3 p.m. March 3 at Encinitas Library, 540 Cornish Dr, Encinitas.

FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

Join Lakehouse for an indulgent experience featuring unlimited tastings from some of North County and San Diego’s best restaurants,

The Carlsbad Playreaders present “Red Hot Patriot” written by Margaret and Allison Engel, directed by Gerilyn Brault and starring Linda Libby as Molly Ivins. $5, 7:30 p.m. at Carlsbad City Library, 1775 Dove Ln, Carlsbad.

MARCH 5

BODEANS

Founded and led by original frontman and song-

writer Kurt Neumann, the Bodeans’ catalog consists of generational anthems such as “Good Things” and “You Don’t Get Much.” $30, 8 p.m. at Belly Up, 160 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach.

MARCH 6

WALTER TROUT

Blues artist Walter Trout is set to release his 29th solo album over a career that has spanned the globe. $28, 7:30 p.m. at Belly Up, 160 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach.

COINS OF YESTERDAY

John Duhart discusses coin collecting. Free, 9:45 to 11:30 a.m. March 6 at Carlsbad Senior Center, 799 Pine Ave, Carlsbad.

NATURE DRIVEN DESIGN

How to Survive Plastics. Free-$5, 12-1 p.m. March 6 at CSUSM Innovation Hub, 333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Rd, San Marcos.

‘TARTUFFE’

North Coast Repertory Theatre promises an evening of wit, satire, and uproarious laughter with Molière’s timeless comedic masterpiece, “Tartuffe.” $79, March 6 to April 7 at North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987 Lomas Santa Fe Dr, So-

lana Beach.

MARCH 7

DRAG TAKEOVER

The annual Drag Takeover Benefit Show serves as Pride By the Beach’s major fundraiser, which helps keep the festival free to attend. $40, 8 p.m. at Belly Up, 160 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach.

COLIN MCALLISTER

Concert Hour is a free music enrichment series presented for our students and the community by the Palomar College Performing Arts Department. Free1 to 2 p.m. March 7 at Howard Brubeck Theatre, Palomar College, 1140 W Mission Rd, San Marcos.

GRIEF YOGA IN CARLSBAD

The Elizabeth Hospice sponsors a monthly Grief Yoga class in Carlsbad. No yoga experience required. Free, 10-11:30 a.m. March 7 at Las Flores Church , 1400 Las Flores Dr, Carlsbad.

BALLET CLASSES

Youth and adult ballet classes taught by Marti Neal, formerly of the San Francisco Opera Ballet. $65, classes starting at 5:30 p.m. at Stagecoach Community Park, 3420 Camino de los Coches, Carlsbad.

NORTH COAST Rep is performing

one of the most enduring comedic masterpieces in the French playwright’s theatrical canon. It opens March

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1. LITERATURE: In the children’s book, what is Doctor Dolittle’s special talent?

2. ART: Who painted the work titled “Starry Night”?

3. FOOD & DRINK: Which vegetable is commonly used to make pickles?

4. MUSIC: What is pop singer Taylor Swift’s favorite number?

5. MEDICAL: What is a common name for lachrymation?

6. BUSINESS: When was the Chia Pet invented?

7. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Who was the first American to win a Nobel Prize?

8. HISTORY: The Aztec civilization emerged in which modern-day country?

9. TELEVISION: Who played the character Michael Scott on TV’s “The Office’’?

10. GEOGRAPHY: The volcano Mount Vesuvius overlooks which modern-day Italian city?

Answers

1. He can talk with animals.

2. Vincent van Gogh.

3. Cucumbers.

4. 13.

5. Tears or crying.

6. 1977 (Chia Guy).

7. Theodore Roosevelt, the Nobel Peace Prize.

8. Mexico.

9. Steve Carell.

10. Naples.

© 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

1. LITERATURE: In the children’s book, what is Doctor Dolittle’s special talent?

2. ART: Who painted the work titled “Starry Night”?

3. FOOD & DRINK: Which vegetable is commonly used to make pickles?

4. MUSIC: What is pop singer Taylor Swift’s favorite number?

5. MEDICAL: What is a common name for lachrymation?

6. BUSINESS: When was the Chia Pet invented?

7. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Who was the first American to win a Nobel Prize?

8. HISTORY: The Aztec civilization emerged in which modern-day country?

9. TELEVISION: Who played the character Michael Scott on TV’s “The Office’’?

10. GEOGRAPHY: The volcano Mount Vesuvius overlooks which modern-day Italian city?

© 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

Answers

1. He can talk with animals.

2. Vincent van Gogh.

3. Cucumbers.

4. 13.

10. Naples.

9. Steve Carell.

8. Mexico.

7. Theodore Roosevelt, the Nobel Peace Prize.

5. Tears or crying.

6. 1977 (Chia Guy).

6. 1977 (Chia Guy).

5. Tears or crying.

7. Theodore Roosevelt, the Nobel Peace Prize.

4. 13.

3. Cucumbers.

8. Mexico.

9. Steve Carell.

2. Vincent van Gogh.

1. He can talk with animals.

10. Naples.

Answers

© 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

10. GEOGRAPHY: The volcano Mount Vesuvius overlooks which modern-day Italian city?

9. TELEVISION: Who played the character Michael Scott on TV’s “The Office’’?

HISTORY: The Aztec civilization emerged in which modern-day -coun try?

1. LITERATURE: In the

Vista beer scene HOPPIN’

I Like Beer

The last few weeks have been very good for the already very good beer scene in Vista. The long-awaited return of a Mother Earth taproom opened up on Jan. 27, with Lost Abbey soon to follow. Prey Brewing Company (and restaurant), with its specialty lineup of sour ales, is now serving.

Burgeon Beer Company expanded to downtown Vista with its Grove location. Along with the rest of the excellent lineup in Vista, it is a one-stop “hopping” for beer enthusiasts.

The Burgeon Grove spot at 501 S. Santa Fe Avenue sits directly across the street from another favorite spot, 508 Tavern Bar and Grill. In the tradition of collaboration and cooperation that one expects of the San Diego beer industry, the two venues are working together. 508’s menu can be scanned right from the Grove, and food delivered for enjoyment at Burgeon.

The enormous floorto-ceiling windows and the reclaimed wood throughout the taproom have helped to add to the artistic aesthetic of the neighborhood. Carlsbad Crush, San Diego’s preeminent pale ale (one beer writer’s opinion), is a staple on tap and beers brewed specifically for the new location.

And even more good news for Vista is the return

SPORTS TALK

ter, and if there was ever a more disappointing season in franchise history, this sportswriter can’t recall it. I’ve been watching the Padres since 1969 and that was brutal.

An offseason of hype and hope morphed into the endless bummer of the Padres missing the playoffs once again.

The Padres paced the majors in bad body language and were embarrassingly inefficient when hitting with runners in scoring position.

It lost one-run games at a mind-boggling pace and when the outcome was determined in extra innings, the Padres were keen on falling short.

But spring is the occasion for a high desert sky and sky-high dreams. Even for a club that has shed some $100 million in payroll.

Any bunch with infielders Manny Machado, Xan-

of Mother Earth Brewing Company’s taproom on 2055 Thibodo Road. This is the original taproom, but it’s a whole new look and vibe.

A few days before the grand reopening, I had a chance to sit down with Kamron Khannakhjavani, marketing director and partner of Mother Earth, to hear about the steps leading to this return.

ILB: The last time we talked, we were zooming from our garages, and you were looking for possible locations to reopen up in. What happened that led you right back here to where it all started?

Kamron: After eight years in our great spot on Main Street, we took a little breather to figure things out. We felt we didn’t need to prove ourselves with a venue like that one anymore. We will brew 30,000 barrels at this location this year. We wanted nice things and looked at different neighborhoods with lots of foot traffic. We looked all over, and this location opening doesn’t preclude us from opening up somewhere else, perhaps somewhere more coastal.

But this feels right. Doing this build-out feels right, being right here where we started. It has just felt wholesome.

ILB: Cheers and welcome home. What are we drinking, by the way?

Kamron: This is Tierra Madre, this is our 4.5% abv Mexican Lager. It is made with rice, corn and Mexican lager yeast. Super sessionable. We like to call it a “sandwich beer.” This beer had risen up to number four in our lineup behind the Cali-Creamin styles.

der Bogaerts and Ha-Seong Kim is to be applauded. Mix in outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr., a rotation with right-handers Joe Musgrove and Yu Darvish, and the potential of Michael King, and it’s clear the Padres have entered seasons with less.

But it’s also a team with more holes than a fishing net.

Can one-time shortstop Jackson Merrill, the Padres’ No. 2 prospect, make the daunting leap from Double-A to the varsity while learning how to play left field?

Is Luis Campusano ready to take the full load at catcher?

Does another Padre wet behind the ears get to play center field?

Can the void at designated hitter be filled, with the answer likely being a player with scant experience?

Can the final two rotation spots be plugged by Jhony Brito and Randy Vasquez,

ILB: And this is a shared space, which is new.

Kamron: Much of our production has moved to Idaho. At the same time, Lost Abbey was looking for a space to relocate. So, we’ve shared the brewhouse since last April. The Lost Abbey team has been really cool, and we are getting along great.

ILB: And they will have a taproom here, too, right?

Kamron: That all came about due to the ABC (Alcohol Beverage Control). After months of paperwork, they said, ‘You know, this would all be easier if you just applied for a joint tasting room.’

ILB: Am I about to thank the ABC for something?

Kamron: Yes! They were actually helpful. I

right-handers the Padres got for peddling Soto?

Closer? Maybe righty Robert Suarez or lefty Adrian Morejon?

And can the new manager, Mike Shildt, mold it all to compete in a loaded National League West, which not only includes the Dodgers, but the Arizona Diamondbacks, fresh from the World Series, and an improved San Francisco Giants squad.

We realize Padres fans left their hearts behind when 2023 went haywire.

We also know there are no guarantees in baseball, only the aspiration that things are smooth enough over 162 games for a playoff invitation.

“We’ve got open spots in a lot of different areas,” Shildt said. “We’ll see who can grab them.”

Our advice? Snag a beverage, settle in and enjoy the ride of baseball.

The Padres are back, spring is here and that’s

hadn’t even considered that. The wheels started turning. I marched straight into Tomme Arthur’s office (COO of Lost Abbey) and ran the idea by him. There’s definitely a symbiosis between our two breweries that the beer drinker is really going to enjoy.

ILB: What’s been the best part of reopening a tasting room?

Kamron: We missed seeing people. Having people back in this space is great! Mother Earth Brewing Company is open every day except Mondays. Burgeon Beer’s The Grove is open seven days a week. Both are dog and family-friendly. If you haven’t made the trip to Vista lately, there’s more to see, taste and enjoy. ***

enough

St. Patrick’s Day is coming, and San Diego’s ShamROCK block party is returning on Saturday, March 16th, for its 28th year. It’s a day full of music, food, drink and shenanigans! Visit the sandiegoshamrock.com website or @sdshamrock on Instagram for more information. The ILB

team will be there, too! Jeff Spanier is the co-host of I Like Beer the Podcast. For the entire interview with Mother Earth Brewing, take a listen wherever you get podcasts. Follow Spanier’s adventures on Instagram @ ilikebeerthepodcast.

CELEBRATING the reopening of Mother Earth Brewing in Vista are Jeff Spanier, Brian Robertson, TR Robertson and Jeff Riccitelli. Photo by Jeff Spanier

jeff spanier