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The
Clairemont Times Serving Clairemont, Bay Park, Linda Vista & Kearny Mesa
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News of the Neighborhoods
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LOCAL POSTAL CUSTOMER ECRWSS
MARCH 2018
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To This Clairemont Resident, Homelessness Is No Longer Viewed from the Car Window When Homelessness Hits Home
colorfully wrapped gifts, sparkling lights on the tree.
by Robert Ross
How did this happen? A letter arrives from the Los Angeles Coroner's office. My chest tightens, the mind focuses. Letter open, the words jump out, "Gary . . . death," eyes turn away, childhood memories surface. The Letter The notifications section of the Los Angeles County Department of Coroner has been assigned the responsibility of attempting to locate family for the above-named person. During our efforts to locate next of kin, your name and/or address has been uncovered in connection with the decedent's history. If the above named is a relative, I first of all extend to you my condolences on your loss and sincerely apologize for the insensitivity of informing you of the death in this manner. Regrettably, other methods of notification have not been successful. If you are related to the above-named person . . ." By phone, the Coroner's office informs us our cousin was homeless, living on the UCLA campus. Palm on forehead, my thoughts turn to memories of Christmas Eves long ago, childhood faces glowing with excitement,
From the Daily Bruin Newspaper "63-year-old dies after falling from UCLA Biomedical Library� A 63-year-old man died after falling from the UCLA Biomedical Library on Oct. 28. The Los Angeles County coroner identified the death as a suicide. UCPD spokesperson Nancy Greenstein said UCPD responded to reports of a person falling from the roof or window at 11:30 a.m. She added the person does not appear to be affiliated with UCLA. Greenstein said UCPD is not releasing the name and is not investigating the death as a homicide. The library was closed and blocked off from bystanders after the incident. The library opened again at about 2:20 p.m., according to police at the scene. Counselors were stationed in the library to help those affected by the death, Greenstein said. Drive down any busy street in San Diego, or
Los Angeles, and you'll see at intersections, on the center meridians, the homeless, looking worn, disheveled, with signs asking for money. Some are mentally ill, others support a drug or alcohol habit, still others perhaps adding to their public assistance income. Whatever the motivation, the sleeping bags lining downtown streets, the shopping carts used as mobile homes, and the panhandlers in front of shops and on street corners are disturbing. And the problem is growing. According to Forbes Magazine, San Diego and County has the fourth largest homeless population in the country at 8669. However, New York leads with an astounding 73,523, followed by Los Angeles and County at 48,853 and Seattle at 10,730. My cousin, estranged from family, hadn't spoken with me in 20 years. But now, I wanted to know why. I put an ad in the Daily Bruin: "Did anyone know the homeless person who fell from the Biomedical Library on Oct 28? He was my cousin. Please contact me by email ..." No response. Gary's death hit home. No longer were these nameless individuals staring at me as I wait for the signal to turn green on Clairemont Mesa Blvd. They're someone's cousin, son, daughter, father, who, for whatever reason, SEE Homelessness, page 4
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2 • The Clairemont Times • March 2018
From the Publisher By Chris O’Connell
March already… for all those celebrating St Patrick’s Day enjoy! A day where people want or pretend to be Irish and consume green libations, you have to laugh, regardless if you're celebrating have fun and be safe. Corned beef & cabbage is most definitely on the menu at the O’Connell house! The homeless have been in the news a lot lately and not just in Clairemont or the surrounding neighborhoods but really all over. Robert Ross the author of the page 1 article has written numerous various pieces in the past and his piece this month I felt was timely. A pure coincidence, this month a new contributor has joined us Tanya Sawhney approached with a topic about homelessness around our community. Both Sawhney & Ross in their respective pieces give us pause to think about homelessness and their first-hand accounts. There is no doubt this is a heavy topic, and by printing these pieces I am not trying to solve the homelessness but rather just asking to take an honest read. We are all entitled to our opinions I hope you enjoy. I also want to give a shout out to Marge Weber from the Clairemont Woman’s Club (CWC), this year they as a group have taken it upon themselves to make the Warrior Foundation – Freedom Station (www.WarriorFoundation.org) as their
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major fundraiser. I would urge you all to check out WFFS and if possible do what you can to help. And for all the lady readers, check out the CWC (p3) they are a fun group of energized women! For all you small business owners, bloggers and computer gurus, I wanted to put an event on your radar about WordPress, this, to me, is by far the best platform for your website needs. Way back when the paper first started, we launched on WordPress, in one of my major business mistakes I left for what I thought was a shiny better offering, well lesson learned and we are back on the WordPress platform. If you are interested in learning more there is an event upcoming at City College in April WordCamp SanDiego (https://2018.sandiego.wordcamp.org) tickets are $40 for two days to learn, listen and ask questions about how to create your space on the world wide web. Enjoy this edition folks and as always, please support the businesses that advertise in this paper without them there would be no paper. If I can be of assistance, please do not hesitate to call or email (858) 752-9779 chris@ClairemontTimes.com
Chris O’Connell, Publisher
Community Meetings Open to the Public (Locations & Times Subject to Change)
Clairemont Town Council 3/1/18 (1st Thursday) 6:30pm Clairemont High School 4150 Ute Dr. 92117 Clairemont Community Planning Group 3/20/18 (3rd Tuesday) 6:30pm Alcott Elementary 4680 Hidalgo Ave. 92117 Linda Vista Town Council 3/15/18 (3rd Thursday) 6pm Baha’i Faith Center 6545 Alcala Knolls Dr.92111 Linda Vista Planning Group 3/26/18 (4th Monday) 5:30pm Linda Vista Library 2160 Ulric St. 92111
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Chick-fil-A Names New Franchise Owner of its Clairemont Location and is Currently Hiring Murdock has begun hiring as many as 75 team members as he builds his Clairemont staff. He is filling full-time and part-time positions in all areas of the restaurant, including leadership Chick-fil-A has named San Diego native development, hospitality, catering, training Glenn Murdock franchise owner of the and marketing. Each position will start at chain's drive-thru-only $14 per hour and Clairemont restaurant include other benefits as the hiring of such as scholarships for upwards of 75 new continuing education. In team members begins addition, Chick-fil-A in preparation for a restaurant team projected late March members appreciate grand opening. having Sundays off, When Clairemont's Chick-fil-A in Clairemont at 5955 flexible schedules, and first Chick-fil-A opens Balboa Ave. Clairemont Times (photo the family atmosphere at 5955 Balboa Ave., it Renee O'Connell) fostered at the will be a homecoming restaurant. for Murdock who grew up in San Diego.A Named one of the "best places to work" graduate of Boston University with a by Glassdoor, Chick-fil-A is known for degree in communications, Murdock has hiring, developing and retaining talent, been operating the chain's restaurant in offering a supportive workplace with Encinitas since 2012.After a brief stint as a opportunities for leadership development, professional juggler after college, Murdock respect for work-life balance and traveled the country putting together competitive wages. youth conventions and it was during that Chick-fil-A team members are eligible part of his career that he was introduced for the chain's initiative, Remarkable to Chick-fil-A. He quickly became a fan of Futures, which provides $4.9 million in the chain and its focus on freshly prepared annual scholarships. Ranging from $2,500 food and personalized customer service.A to $25,000, the scholarships are based on few years later, when Murdock was leadership, community involvement and considering a career change, he realized academic achievement. Over the years, the Chick-fil-A franchise operator role fit Chick-fil-A, which employs more than his entrepreneurial goal of owning a 75,000 people through corporate business where he could have a positive positions and franchised locations, has impact on his employees, customers and provided almost $38 million to help pay community, for college. The new drive-thru-only Clairemont Interested applicants can learn more by restaurant will include drive-thru service visiting www.cfaclairemont.com. Follow featuring two ordering lanes merging into the restaurant at a single lane for pickup.Walk-up www.facebook.com/cfaclairemont for customers will find three ordering updates on interview schedules and grand windows and patio seating for 40.The opening events. Note: Each Chick-fil-A restaurant will be open Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m., offering restaurant is individually owned and operated and is a separate employer. a full breakfast menu until 10:30 a.m.
Starting pay for each position at the Balboa Avenue restaurant is $14 per hour
Clairemont Woman’s Club by Marge Weber
Yes! March is here bringing us Spring, Daylight Savings Time and St. Paddy’s Day.....and of course our monthly meeting on Wednesday, March 7th . Our program will feature Sandy Lehmkuhler and Judy Sexton speaking to us about the Warrior Foundation Freedom Station right here in San Diego. Freedom Station helps veterans transition from the military to civilian life. Freedom Station is also the beneficiary of our major fundraiser, FASHION WALK FOR OUR WARRIORS, which will be Saturday, April 21st. No Host Bar 11:30, Lunch and festivities Noon-3pm. It will be a sit-down lunch at the Butcher Shop with Fashions by Chicos, door prizes and basket raffles. Mark this on your calendar as a worthwhile activity to support and have an enjoyable afternoon. Tickets
are $45. (see the Warrior Foundation Freedom Station on page 19). More information to follow in the April edition of the Times. In February we celebrated our 64th year of service to the community with a delicious lunch, fun and games. The book group discussed “The Death of a Gentle Lady” and the Daytime Gourmets enjoyed meeting at Seasons 52 at UTC. We hope to see you at our March meeting to learn about us and how we serve the community. We meet at the Balboa Community Church at 6555 Balboa Avenue. Park around the corner of Mt. Albertine in the church parking lot. The meeting starts at 1 p. m. and refreshments will be served. For more information about CWC, visit our websites at www.ClairemontWomansClub.com or “like” us on Facebook. You may also call Jackie at (858) 273-7664 or Evelyn at (858) 279-4367.
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4 • The Clairemont Times • March 2018
Homelessness Continued from page 1
chose not to use the safety nets available to them. Instead, they hit the streets, sliding down a path of self-destruction. In an attempt to make sense of it all, I watch the documentary Without a Home, by Rachel Fleischer. The background music written by her sister Jessica is poignant, and the lyrics linger for days. "Walking the streets, but nowhere left to go, pushing carts, there's nothing left to show, the hunger never dies, the sorrow in their eyes ..." The movie follows Rachel as she documents the lives of six homeless people living in the Los Angeles area. Rachel is pulled into their lives and finds herself attempting to help. At the end of the documentary, the viewer is left with the feeling that there is no easy answer. Those who live on the streets surrender their sovereignty, often having mental and emotional problems that exceed the limits of any "Twelve Step" type of program. The National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty indicates, as of 2016, approximately 1,750,000 are homeless in the U.S. Sixty-six percent have alcohol, drug abuse or
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mental illness issues. According to an article in the Los Angeles Times, "San Diego County is moving forward with a new program that will provide long-term housing and care to as many as 1,250 mentally ill homeless people in the next two years." And, in 2016, the Los Angeles City Council, after declaring that homelessness had reached "emergency proportions," approved a $100 million plan for homeless services this year. And $2 billion over the next decade for housing – including appointing a city homeless coordinator, creating a network of public restrooms and showers, and, making a huge investment in affordable housing. Whether or not another layer of programs, another bureaucracy, will make a dent in homelessness remains to be seen. My cousin, alone, scared, confused, his mind and spirit no longer looking forward to a better life, chose to end it. I'm sorry. I'm sorry I couldn't have done something. There are 1,750,000 'Garys' living on the streets, alone, scared and confused. Robert Ross is a long-time Clairemont resident and can be reached at SanDiegoRoss@Yahoo.com
Clairemont Celebrates Grand Reopening of Neighborhood’s only Senior Center Southern California Last month, with over 50 Councilmember different Chris Cate joined programs/services Clairemont at over 20 different residents as well as locations. LSS-SC members of the embraces those in Clairemont Town crisis, with Council, along with short-term, employees of the emergency senior center to cut services; equips the ribbon at the individuals and Cathy Hopper families, with Clairemont Photo courtesy of Councilmember Chris Cate program resources Friendship Center to help them on (CHCFC). Located their journey; and in the heart of empowers people to break the cycle of Clairemont, the Cathy Hopper poverty, live with dignity, and become Clairemont Friendship Center provides activities and services to individuals over self-sufficient. By 2030, adults ages 65 and above will the age of 60. Funding for the CHCFC was originally double and outnumber youth, making the aging population the fastest growing excluded from last year’s budget, population in the nation.There are however, due in large part to currently 40 million Americans over the Councilmember Cate’s advocacy and age of 65. efforts, funding was secured and the “The Cathy Hopper Clairemont Cathy Hopper Clairemont Friendship Friendship Center is a cornerstone in Center was saved. Since securing the Clairemont for our seniors. Reopening funding, Lutheran Social Services of the center with Lutheran Social Services Southern California has agreed to serve of Southern California shows that we, as as the long-term provider for the Cathy a city, prioritize our senior citizens and Hopper Clairemont Friendship Center, their needs,” stated Councilmember Chris ensuring that the most vulnerable Cate. members of District 6, senior citizens, For more information on the will have access to daily programs and programs offered at the CHCFC seniors support. are encouraged to stop by Monday-Friday Founded in 1944, Lutheran Social (9am-4pm) or call (858) 483-4005. Services of Southern California (LSS-SC) serves hundreds of thousands of 4425 Bannock Avenue, San Diego, CA 92117 individuals and families throughout
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The “New” Kearny High School by Laura Farrar
small schools, and three of the four schools have their own vice principal. Through this small school model, students can choose to specialize in curriculum that interests them and relates to their future academic and career goals. Teachers and administrators are able to get better
Did you know that Kearny High is actually composed of four small specialty schools? In 2004, Kearny closed and reopened as the Kearny High Educational Complex. Kearny’s four small schools are: The School of
Student CJ Garzon assists Kearny Principal Ana Díaz-Booz with the ribbon cutting for Kearny’s Komet Stadium in 2015. (photo by Laura Farrar)
Digital Media and Design (DMD), The School of College Connections (SCC), The School of Engineering, Innovation, and Design (EID), and The School of Science, Connections & Technology (SCT). Each school is contained in a relatively separate area of the site. Shared spaces include the complex office, auditorium, gymnasium, library, student center, locker rooms, athletic facilities, and cafeteria. All schools operate on the same academic calendar and bell schedule. There is one principal who oversees all four
acquainted students and their families, creating a more personalized educational experience with greater student accountability. The Kearny campus has also felt “new” due to the opening of a new football stadium (with lights!), baseball field, and weight room in 2015. The gymnasium was also refurbished in 2017. Interested in a tour? Contact school receptionist Maria Lopez at 858-496-8370 extension 2008 or mlopez4@sandi.net.
New Asian Grocery Store Coming to Balboa Ave by Chris O’Connell
A follower of our Facebook page recently messaged me about some activity on Balboa Ave at the former Sports Authority at 7725 Balboa Ave. in Kearny Mesa just east of the 805. I was asked did I hear anything about the location, the person had heard H Mart an Asian Grocery store was moving into the location. A call to the H Mart corporate office in New Jersey did in fact confirm they will be taking over the location. They did not however provide any information as to when they will open. Stay tuned for more details. The closest H Mart is
located in Mira Mesa. Thank you for the tip. If you have any tips or questions, please do not hesitate to call or email me at (858) 752-9779 or chris@clairemonttimes.com
The former Sports Authority on Balboa Ave will eventually become Asian grocery store H Mart. Clairemont Times photo by Chris O’Connell
6 • The Clairemont Times • March 2018
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Avoiding Future Trust or Will Contests by Dick McEntyre, Attorney at Law
Although most trusts and wills contain a “no contest clause,” disgruntled persons, especially one’s children, who feel they were improperly left out of a decedent’s disposition of property, may still challenge the provisions of the decedent’s document in question following the deceased person’s death. The grounds for such a challenge can be: (1) alleged fraud or undo influence exacted by the taker under the trust or will; (2) purported lack of mental capacity of the trustor or testator resulting in the estate going to the “wrong beneficiary”; or (3) especially in the instance of children, when a child believes he or she was inadvertently left out (“forgotten”) of the trust or will. Such challenges can slow up the administration of the estate, cause anxiety, and be very costly to the estate. To help avoid such a future challenge, when a trustor of a trust or the testator of a will believes there may be future discontent, among his or her children, he or she should strongly consider having a
before-the-fact meeting with the children and advise them of his or her intentions regarding the future disposition of the estate. While such a meeting may be uncomfortable, in the long run it could be beneficial, since it may well allow the trustor or testator to die in peace, knowing that there should be no challenge to his or her estate planning disposition, with its attendant delays, costs, and anxieties. Further, such a meeting may provide for a reconciliation of those presently estranged. Another idea which may be helpful is making a videotape of the testator’s signing of the will or trust along with such testator’s making a statement of why he or she is making the disposition in question. The above suggestions are generalizations only and are not to be taken as legal advice for the reader’s particular situation. Richard F. McEntyre is a lawyer practicing law in the areas of estate planning and administration, having served the San Diego community as a lawyer for over 40 years. House calls are available. Dick’s office is located at 3156 Sports Arena Boulevard, Suite 102 (Telephone (619) 221-0279), www.richardfmcentyre.com.
Rising Homelessness, A Cause of Worry! by Tanya Sawhney
Homelessness reveals the horrific reality of life on the streets of United States. According to a recent report of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), homeless population of the country has risen for
genders. San Diego County has the 4th largest homeless population in the entire nation. Homelessness is always assumed to be related with a mental illness, which creates a major roadblock in eradicating the overwhelming social problem. It also creates a barrier for the homeless person who wants to find work and is unable to do so which in turn leads them to stay unemployed and homeless.The Regional Task Force on the Homeless, which conducts the count, estimated just 14% of the unsheltered homeless in San Diego have a mental illness. While everyone has some idea of what it means to be homeless, it is important to be precise.The HUD lists out four broad categories defining the homeless. Photos by Tanya Sawhney
Food packs donated homeless individuals and families downtown San Diego
the first time since 2010.The report has found that 553,742 people were homeless on a single night in 2017, a 0.7% increase over last year. The HUD report also highlights the rise in the number of homeless veterans.The number of homeless veterans increased by 585 people between 2016 and 2017. This increase was driven by an increase in the unsheltered population for both
Clothes donated and dropped for local homeless
• People who are living in a place not meant for human habitation, in
15
%
OFF ACCESSORIES T-Mobile Bay Park 3089 Clairemont Dr., San Diego, CA 92117 619.684.5281 emergency shelter, in transitional housing, or are exiting an institution where they temporarily resided. • People who are losing their primary nighttime residence, which may include a motel or hotel or a doubled up situation, within 14 days and lack resources or support networks to remain in housing. • People who are fleeing or attempting to flee domestic violence, have no other residence, and lack the resources or support networks to obtain other permanent housing. • Families with children or unaccompanied youth who are unstably housed and likely to continue in that state. The true measure of a society is how it treats its most vulnerable members.The HUD and other government agencies collaborate with state and local partners to prevent and
end homelessness across the country. I read something interesting somewhere, giving money to the homeless is an economic crisis of the heart, a tug-of-war between the instinct to alleviate suffering and the knowledge that a donation might encourage, rather than relieve, the pain of the poor.The best help is a shelter not a dollar. If we drop change in a beggar’s hand without donating to a charity, we’re acting to relieve our guilt rather than underlying crisis of poverty. Handing out money is not an answer to the situation but being involved with an organization which is working towards betterment of the homeless and can ensure that the money is spent wisely is one of the steps we can take as a society. Tanya Sawhney is a Freelance Journalist and can be reached at mailtanya05@gmail.com
The Clairemont Times • March 2018 • 7
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Religious Directory 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.org 3450 Clairemont Drive, San Diego, CA 92117 Church (858) 273-2886 Lifeline Community Fellowship Saturday at 5:00pm Food/Fellowship Sunday Worship 9:00 am Christian Science Church and Reading Room www.christianscience.com 3410 Clairemont Drive, San Diego, CA 92117 Phone (619) 276-5034 Sunday Worship Service and Sunday School: 10:00am Wednesday Testimony Meetings: Noon
St. Catherine Labouré Catholic Church www.stcatherinelaboure.net 4124 Mt. Abraham Ave., San Diego, CA 92111 Phone (858) 277-3133 Weekend Mass Times Saturday 5:30pm Sunday 8:00, 9:30, 11:00am, 1pm/Spanish St. David’s Episcopal Church & Preschool www.saintdavidschurch.com 5050 Milton Street, San Diego CA 92110 Sunday Worship Times: 8:00am - Holy Communion Rite I (Traditional) 10:00am - Holy Communion Rite II (Contemporary) Wednesday Short Service w/Communion 6:15pm For information on advertising your place of worship in the Religious Directory please call or email Chris O’Connell, Publisher (858) 752-9779 chris@clairemonttimes.com
8 • The Clairemont Times • March 2018
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Squaremont By Bill Swank
Pictured: Bill Swank outside the Buena Vista Garden Apartments on Cowley Way in 1955, with East Clairemont off in the distance.
Photos by Bill Swank
Adult Coloring Book Club I never really liked coloring books when I was a kid. Although I didn’t understand the concept at the time, I found coloring between the lines too confining, too unimaginative. It didn’t help that teachers praised girls, because they stayed inside the lines. Being a child in the Age of Conformity, I kept my mouth shut. In the 1950s,“paint-by-number” was
One of the many circular Hindu/Buddhist mandala designs used by the Adult Coloring Club at the North Clairemont Library(photo by Bill Swank)
a national fad. I remember people painting Mona Lisas by number, framing and hanging their masterpieces on the wall. They bragged that they were artists. The scary part is other people believed they were. Next it became popular to assemble 2,000-piece jigsaw puzzles of art masterpieces. They would glue the finished puzzles onto masonite and put them on display. Then, macramé and velvet paintings became the rage for wall art. Women loved to weave macramé, but we had to travel south of the border for a quality velvet Elvis or Tweety Bird. As early twentieth century
With her pencils carefully arranged, colorist Barbara Frey admires the hummingbird picture she is coloring at the North Clairemont Library (photo by Bill Swank)
“I thank God every day for Arianne,” says Barbara Frey, an 80-year-old regular.“I color every day. I’m a different person when I color. Two doctors recommended that I should color. When I concentrate on coloring, my headaches go away. I’ve colored all my life. It’s the best therapy you can do.” Barbara is particular about the colors she selects.“Prismacolor pencils are better than Crayola pencils, but they are expensive. The library provides them for us to use.” She boasts,“My great-grandkids get a lot of compliments in school because their teachers are impressed they can draw inside the lines.” Barbara offers this advice.“If people are lonely or older, I highly recommend coloring. Since my husband died, I get up at night to color. My favorite things to color are hummingbirds and butterflies.” There is no mistaking the positive effect this has on Barbara Frey. She doesn’t claim to be an artist, but she is proud to tell her great-grandkids that she is a colorist. At the end of the session, it was clear that coloring can provide solace and comfort. Barbara’s face reflected contentment. We don’t live in San Francisco. We live in Clairemont. We have come a long way from the days when having your initials engraved in your bowling ball was the apex of sophistication in Squaremont. Putting aside my aversion for coloring books, kindness and happiness are more important than sophistication. Clairemont is fortunate to have three branch libraries with helpful and dedicated staff.
schedule. The most interest is shown newspaper cynic H.L. Mencken wryly for gardening, health & wellness, arts noted,“No one ever went broke & crafts, California history, music and underestimating the taste of the American public,” which brings us to the latest craze: adult coloring books. This is a recent advertisement for a New York Times best selling coloring book:“In Marty Noble’s Peaceful World, bestselling coloring book artist Marty Noble invites colorists to explore the rainbow of our kaleidoscopic, multicultural world through coloring.” The American Art Therapy Association “does not discourage the use of coloring books for recreation and self-care, (but) coloring activities must be distinguished Johanna Bamford’s Secret Garden, the adult coloring from art therapy sessions book that portended the craze said to be more provided by a credentialed art addictive than cell phones (photo by Bill Swank) Email:Bill@ClairemontTimes.com therapist.” To read all the Squaremont columns visit: In reference to coloring http://clairemonttimes.com/category/squaremont/ within the lines and adult financial. coloring books, Donna Betts, an art “We want to provide therapy professor at George activities at the library Washington University notes,“They that the community limit artistic and personal expression; wants,” she said.“The the creative processes aren’t being North Clairemont truly tapped into.” Coloring books took the publishing branch began the Adult industry by surprise. In 2014, a million Coloring Club about adult coloring books were sold. A year two months ago and it is slowly catching on. later, that figure jumped to twelve One woman who million, but there are signs the bubble attends likes to do might soon burst. Mandalas which are With extreme prejudice, but an colorful circular absence of malice, I recently attended designs. We even have a an “adult coloring meeting” at the teenager who joins us.” North Claremont Library to meet “I play soft jazz music some colorists. in the background. Had I stumbled into the new People like to visit and cultural center of Clairemont? relax as they color. They Arianne Leigh is the delightful don’t talk about what branch manager of the North color to use, but rather Clairemont Library. She has a large about anything that questionnaire posted as you enter the Arianne Leigh holds a picture she colored as part of the Adult comes up in library that lists the type of activities Coloring Club at the North Clairemont Library (photo by Bill Swank) conversation. adults would prefer the library to
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Clairemont Property Slated to Become Partial Affordable Housing by Chris O’Connell
A recent announcement from the County of San Diego Communications office has confirmed the current home of the Sheriff’s Regional Crime Lab on Mount Etna drive in Clairemont will eventually be turned into 50% affordable housing and multi-family dwelling units. Proposals from qualified applicants for development will be presented to the County Board of Supervisors (BOS) at their June 26th meeting. The County will review the proposals and then return to the Board with a recommendation.
Enhancing the Golden Years
As more information becomes available, we will provide further updates. It is my guess/speculation this will eventually come before the Clairemont Community Planning Group. Stay tuned.
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The Clairemont Times • March 2018 • 11
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Costa Verde Revitalization, UCPG Sub Committee Meeting 2/5/18 by Louis Rodolico
On February 5, 2018 the University Community Planning Group (UCPG) held a Costa Verde Sub-committee meeting at the Vi at La Jolla Village Senior Living Facility. There were 24 people there, including representatives from; Costa Verde, UCPG, Vi, Friends of Rose Canyon (FORC), McDonalds and the residential community. The discussion centered on; the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) Section 8.4.3 Commercial/Retail and Hotel Alternative, pdf page 522 abstract: “The Commercial/Retail and
development, in particular a parking garage next to Vi. Vi wanted the parking underground as much as possible and based on the new traffic study Section 8.4.3 reduces the height of the parking facility. DEIR pdf page 88 will provide some graphic images. The Traffic Engineer delivered some questionable results from a new traffic study. It seems illogical that a traffic study done today would have any value given the amount of disruption in the area. Suffice to say the Section 8.4.3 Costa Verde expansion will add about 5,000 trips each day. Coupled with the Mall expansion, UCSD
Application Deadline: April 13th
Now Enrolling! www.thriveps.org FREE K-12 Charter Public Schools Engaging Learners by Personalizing Learning Campuses located in Linda Vista & City Heights. Sign up for a tour Today! Hotel Alternative proposes an additional 125,000 SF of commercial space over existing uses and a 200-room hotel. This would be the same as the Project, with the exception that no residential use is proposed under this alternative. It is assumed that a fast-food restaurant or other commercial use would continue to operate in the
southwestern portion of the site, where the Project proposes residential use as a future phase. The mobility improvements and community facilities, as well as sustainable design features, proposed as part of the Project also would occur under this alternative”. Not everyone agrees with the need for a hotel. McDonalds made a strong presentation and they hope to remain in business long term. The Vi retirement facility will be impacted by the increased size of the Costa Verde
expansion, the new residential towers and other projects forty to fifty thousand additional vehicular trips will soon hit our area daily. The recommended Environmentally Superior Alternative is no project. DEIR Section 8.5 Environmentally Superior Alternative, pdf page 532. Regency Centers, the owners of the property, will lobby against this of
course, but most residents would favor it since it would mean no further disruption once the Mid-Coast Trolley Blue Line is completed. One path for Regency is to agree up front not to impinge on public right of way easements. For example, right now the construction of the Westfield Residential Tower has shut down three sidewalks on; Genesee, Nobel and Lombard Place. It has also reduced Nobel west to one lane as it approaches Genesee from the east. See photo. If the Costa Verde project
619-839-9543 facebook.com/ThriveSchools • info@thriveps.org goes forward the community should insist that there be no construction staging on public sidewalks and streets. That there be a 24 foot high impervious noise barrier within 350 feet of any residence and that construction vehicle site access not be within 350 feet of any residence. The city should consider placing these elements in the final EIR. Costa Verde can argue any of the four alternatives when they go to the city. It is up to them, as a general rule, the more they ask for, the more resistance they will get from the community. To what extent the city’s quest for affordable housing, can be realized here, is anyone’s guess. Your comments must be received
by March 19, 2018, to be included in the final document considered by the decision making authorities. Please send your written comments to the following address: E. Shearer-Nguyen, Environmental Planner, City of San Diego Development Services Center, 1222 1st Avenue, MS 501, San Diego, CA 92101 or e-mail your comments to DSDEAS@sandiego.gov with the Project Name COSTA VERDE REVITALIZATION and Project No. 477943 / SCH No. 2016071031 Louis Rodolico has been a resident of University City since 2001 Links: DEIR http://docs.sandiego.gov/citybulletin_publicno tices/CEQA/PN1300%20%23477943%20Draft %20MND%20Date%201-31-18.pdf
The Easiest Way to Find Homes for Sale
12 • The Clairemont Times • March 2018
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LoloLovesFilms This Month:
Top 20 Best Movies of 2017 The Clairemont Times PO Box 17671 San Diego, CA 92177 (858) 752-9779 Founding Publisher: Chris O’Connell Graphic Designer: Elaine Hall Contributors: Brian Gruters Susan Lewitt Dick McEntyre Robby McKittrick Lauren & Josh Rains Brian Riehm Louis Rodolico Robert Ross Bill Swank Marge Weber 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 ©2011-18 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:
by Lolo & Big J
Here is our list of the TOP 20 BEST MOVIES OF 2017! It was a long and arduous process, but we’ve finally finished it! 20. “Raw” - Bloody, creepy, brutal, and awesome. 19. “Thor: Ragnarok” - Brilliantly directed, funny, and colorful. 18. “Baby Driver” - A music lover’s dream! Excellent visuals, stellar performances, and incredible stunts. 17. “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” - A worthy follow-up to the original; surprisingly emotional. 16. “Brigsby Bear” - An unexpected gem about friendship and growing up; eccentric and hilarious. 15. “Darkest Hour” - Has one of the best performances all year by Gary Oldman; rousing and dramatic. 14. “Molly’s Game” - Jessica Chastain and Idris Elba shine in this engaging, crazy-but-true true life drama. 13. “War for the Planet of the Apes” - Somber, deeply involving, and visually pristine. Hard to believe most of this movie is CGI! 12. “Good Time” - Calamitous, raw, realistic, and frenetic. Another hidden gem from 2017. Robert Pattinson and Bennie Safdie are brilliant here. 11. “Spider-Man: Homecoming” A new Spider-Man brings more humor, unexpected twists, and a great villain. 10. “The Big Sick” - One of the best comedies AND romances of the year; heartwarming and so, so lovely. 9. “Stronger” - Powerfully dramatic without being phony, has wonderful performances by Jake Gyllenhaal and Tatiana Maslany. 8. “mother!” - Controversial, visually striking, and divisive, director Darren Aronofsky sure knows how to make a movie that gets people talking. 7. “Logan” - Violent, heartbreaking, and well made; Hugh Jackman is a marvel!
6. “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” This movie gets better with each viewing. It brings unexpected endings, fabulous new beginnings, and an uncertainty we’re excited to see moving forward in the series. 5. “Wind River” - Tragic but important, sharp-tongued, and exquisitely made. Taylor Sheridan is a director to look out for! 4. “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri” - Provocative, difficult to watch, and steeped in dark humor and irony. 3. “The Disaster Artist” – Painfully
funny, ironic yet hopeful, a love letter to those with talent and to those with a lack thereof. 2. “Get Out” - An instant top 5 film when we watched it. We couldn’t get this film out of our heads all year. It’s poignant, scary, and effective as both a horror and as a satire. 1. “The Shape of Water” - Magical, haunting, tremendous. Visually interesting, ethereal, romantic, horrific, and thought provoking. A fairy tale come to life! Visit our blog at www.lololovesfilms.com for more reviews, and follow us @lololovesfilms on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat for extra content! For inquiries or comments, please email: lololovesfilms@gmail.com.
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www.clairemonttimes.com March, Fall will be putting a new hazy into canned four packs, Lupulin Saturation. Another recent San Diego trend is towards lagers. Fall has separate lagering tanks, long recognizing the importance of that style. The vibe is dominated by the musical influence of the punk rock scene, and it shows up in beer names as well. Each month, a new art show is featured on the left wall. Concert advertising from Lively’s personal collection add more character. The by Brian Riehm music on the sound system reflects those tastes but isn’t too loud. For This month, I ventured to North Park to visit Fall Brewing, at 4542 30th eats, Fall has worked to get a varied food truck line up 7 days a week, after Street. Fall has become a 4 p.m. Kabobs, sushi, burgers, or neighborhood favorite hangout, Mexican are in the mix. attracting a packed house by early The beers were all terrific. Fall afternoon on my President’s day visit. deliberately limits the alcohol content Co-founders Ray Astamendi and Dave of their beers to less than 9%, allowing you to sample more of their product. I started with Rise Up Czech Pale Lager. This was very clean tasting, balanced to the maltier side; a challenging style done very well. Crystal Mess is a floral, hoppy pale ale, but still clean. Larry Monasakanian with co-founders Ray Astamendi and Dave Lively A little wheat of Fall Brewing. softens it up. Speedo’s Tiki Love Lively took the name from the idea God is a traditional nutty brown. It is that they had fallen in previous sweet up front, and just slightly dry. experiences in the brewing business. I Another tough style done well by Fall talked with sales manager and Bay is the German Pilsner, Plenty for All. Park Resident Larry Monasakanian about Fall Brewing’s history, direction, Sweeter than Rise Up, this has softer taste than Rise Up, offset with noble and of course, craft beer. hops. Rods and Mockers, is an English Fall opened in November 2014, Mild, at the lighter end of the pale ale with Astamendi as head brewer. spectrum. You can taste the breadiness Building on his previous commercial of the Maris Otter malt, with a little experience, he designed the layout of hop balance. Monasakanian dropped the facility to achieve a clean work Fall Brewing’s flagship IPA, Green Hat, flow for the brewer. His handiwork is into the middle of my tasting session. visible from the tasting room. Lively This is a very West Coast IPA with had extensive experience in graphic design in the San Diego skate, surf, and bold citrus hitting your nose and music scene. They were coworkers at tongue right away. It is still a little cleaner than similar San Diego IPAs, a previous brewery who wanted to and an excellent flagship offering. “get it right” with a neighborhood Berliner Weisse is low alcohol craft brewery. The goal is to brew German sour wheat beer. I normally clean, classic, consistent, and drinkable avoid this, but Watermelon Jazz Hands beers. Part of getting the classic was a treat. The sour and watermelon recipes perfect is getting the water combined wasn’t syrupy, just chemistry correct for the style. A refreshing and easy to drink. We reverse osmosis unit built into the shifted gears to Puppy Cuddles Milk brewery aids that. The beer line up Stout, a lighter stout with lactose reflects a desire for variety, but since mellowing the flavor. 2AM Bike Ride is this is San Diego, hoppy beers are the a coffee stout brewed with whole most popular, according to bean coffee from nearby Dark Horse Monasakanian. Fall recently got on Coffee Roasters. The coffee flavor board with the Hazy New England IPA dominates but is very mellow, due to trend, Goo Goo Muck, was packaged the use of the whole beans, rather and sold out quickly, but is still than ground or brewed coffee. The available on draft. Currently, Fall is one non-traditional,“Frankenstein” selling Green Hat IPA, Rise Up, Plenty beer was a hoppy, amber, Imperial for All, and Magical & Delicious Pale Lager, Enormous Schwanzstucker, Ale in select stores and BevMo. In
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Beers by the Bay
Fall Brewing – North Park Neighborly
brewed in collaboration with Revision Brewing and Automatic Brewing. It was malty, dry, and hoppy, and pretty decent. I finished Nucular Strategery, a barrel aged Imperial Stout that was my favorite of the day. Bourbon notes were subtle, and a little coconut finish made for a delightful balance. Worthy of note, a barrel-aged version of Jinx Remover Imperial Black Lager won
the gold at the 2016 World Beer Cup in the barrel aged strong category. How would I describe Fall? A chill neighborhood brewery serving a good variety of drinkable beers. Brian Riehm is a long-time Clairemont resident and follower of the local craft beer scene. You can keep up with all his beer reviews by following @BrianRiehm on Twitter and reading his blog (brianssandiego.blogspot.com/)
14 • The Clairemont Times • March 2018
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HEALTH & WELLNESS ADVANCED PODIATRY WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH Walter Jolley, D.P.M 5222 Balboa Avenue, Suite 41 San Diego, CA 92117 858-560-0390 • Board Certified Foot and Ankle Surgery • Serving Clairemont for 30 Years • Treating all Painful Foot Conditions • Toenails to Major Deformities
Why I am Running for San Diego City Council by Daniel Smiechowski
My fellow neighbors, over 50 years ago my parents brought our family to Clairemont from the Mid-West. My Mother and Father were old-fashioned God fearing and hardworking simple people. I share their values and believe you do too. I am a candidate for this seat because quite frankly my neighbors asked me to run. I have given Clairemont my heart for the past fifty years and will continue doing so as your Councilperson. While no rational person would believe that time alone spent in one’s home District will make someone more suited for elected office, most voters would agree that how the time was spent makes all the difference. After volunteering on the Clairemont Town Council and Clairemont Community Planning Group as well as teaching public school in our community, I have chosen to run for San Diego City Council because quite frankly, I have a vested interest in the City I love. One of my adopted mottos is, “Leave nobody behind.”Too many of us have been left behind in San Diego. I have a plan to fix our sidewalks so that children and the elderly are free from harm and to lower water rates so that those on fixed incomes and others receive financial relief. I have a compromise plan for Short Term Vacation Rentals which calls for strict enforcement and code compliance laws. These are just three examples of what plagues our City. As a former lifeguard, surfer, long distance swimmer and Ironman triathlete going back 40 years, I will never cease in protecting your public safety including
the environmental safety of San Diego. As a former public and private school teacher in my District, I will never waiver in the safeguarding of our most precious resource being our children. As a former local caregiver, I will never lose hope in the care of our seniors. As a landlord, I will continue to voluntarily reduce rent to the homeless and Veterans. As a real estate professional for over 40 years, I will seek a common ground in Short Term Vacation Rentals and other land use issues. My campaign is not about elites, political correctness and dysfunctional political parties. My campaign is about you, the common citizen who seeks a better life in the City we all love so dearly. I have graduated from all local schools, including Marston Jr. High, Clairemont High School, San Diego Mesa College, San Diego State University and Alliant University. My educational background is in French Language, Linguistics, Sociology, Real Estate, Philosophy and Politics. I have a combined total of more than 10 years on the Clairemont Community Planning Group and Clairemont Town Council. In closing, if you care about our treasures of Mission Bay, SDSU West expansion, perhaps bringing another NBA Franchise to our district, our beautiful beaches and the belief that affordable housing is attainable in our beloved City than you will support my campaign for San Diego City Council. I’m not perfect, but expect to be held accountable to your highest standards. I humbly request your vote in bringing back common sense, moderation, truth and honesty to City Hall.
Why You Should Tell Others If You Donate Blood One day the head of human services, called me into the conference room. He started out by saying that the office wanted to help me with my problem. That I had been working hard and that they felt responsible for my problem. He went on to tell me that the office had arranged for me to go to a two week clinic and that the company would pay for it. It took me awhile to process this conversation, but I eventually asked; "What makes you think I have a problem?" He said that the office had noticed needle marks on my arms and that this clinic had the best record for rehabilitating heroin addicts. My health insurance was with the company so they knew when I had medical services. At that time the Red Cross gave donors a donor card which showed the
dates of all the blood donations. I reached into my wallet and gave the card to him explaining what it was. He asked if he could copy the card, which I agreed to. He returned relieved and somewhat apologetic. I had noticed upper management looking at me funny for some time and of course with the blood donation revelation that stopped. The point is this company took responsibility for a problem that did not even exist. It could have gone much differently.What if they felt no obligation and simply dismissed me and when a future employer called they gave them a reason that could end a career? Going forward I did not wear short sleeve shirts after donating and I always made co-workers and the front office aware that I donated blood regularly. Submitted by a San Diego Resident
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Easy to Grow Plants of the Month: Gooseberries & Currants (ribes species) by Susan Lewitt
There are five Ribes species found in Clairemont and Mira Mesa, two of which are very easy to grow: Chaparral Currant and Catalina Currant. Chaparral currant (Ribes malvaceum) is found from the San Francisco Bay area south to Baja and east to the inner Northern Coastal range. Chaparral current variety, Ribes malvaceum var. viridifolium occurs in southern and central California mountains. Catalina Currant is more
Chaparral Current
common in landscaped gardens, but occurs rarely in chaparral communities of northern Baja California, Mexico and southern California including Santa Catalina Island. The following two shrubs are considered moderately easy to grow, getting up to 10 feet tall: Fuchsiaflower Gooseberry (Ribes speciosum) with abundant red flowers, and White Flowering Currant
Tecolote Nature Center 5180 Tecolote Road San Diego, CA. 92110 • 858-581-9959 Monday – Closed, Tuesday –Saturday 9:00-4:00, Sunday 9:00-2:00 Saturday, March 10 • 1:30-2:45 Hydroponic Gardening Workshop Fleet Center’s 52 Weeks of Science presents this free workshop as part of Engineering Month. Come on down and learn all about it! Saturday, March 17 • 9:00-12:00 Coffee with Todd Gloria Meet Assemblymember Todd Gloria at this free community event. Wednesday, March 21 • 1:30-3:00 For the Birds! Art & Activities for kids–free Meet some rescued parrots with a visit from SoCal Parrot! Learn some birding basics and create some fun crafts. Everyone welcome. Saturday, March 24 • 8:00 am Audubon Society Birding Walk All skill levels welcome Activities are posted at www.meetup.com/Friends of Tecolote Canyon Natural Park and Nature Center. Like us on Facebook/Friends of Tecolote Canyon www.friendsoftecolotecanyon.org
City Receives Second EPA Food Recovery Challenge Award for Leadership on Food Waste Diversion Program Highest Percent Increase Over Previous Year
Catalina Currant
All Photos Courtesy of Calscape
White Flowering Currant
(Ribes indecorum) with white flowers, occasionally with some pink. A third, Bitter Gooseberry (Ribes amarum), is shorter with red, white, pink and purple flowers, but harder to find in nurseries. Chaparral Currant has two varieties. The very easy grower, Ribes malvaceum, grows 5’ to 8’ tall, spreading about 5’ wide, with bright pink flowers, followed by edible purple fruit. It’s summer and winter deciduous. The second, R. m. var. viridifolium, (moderately easy), obtains a maximum height of 6’ with pink and red flowers. It’s summer deciduous, blooming winter through spring, preferring part to full shade. Both take sun to part shade with very low watering requirements. While Ribes malvaceum needs medium to coarse, dry soil, R. m. var. viridifolium only requires reasonable drainage. They both will work in bee, butterfly and hummingbird gardens, plus Ribes malvaceum attracts native bees. Catalina Currant (Ribes viburnifolium) reaches 2’ to 3’ height and 8’ wide, with purple, red and pink flowers. While the flowers attract hummingbirds and insects, the small red fruit draws small mammals and birds. Used as a ground cover, it will also stabilize banks, and won’t be
affected by deer. It thrives in clay, loam, sand, or combinations soils with suitable drainage. This plant may be pruned to limit its spread and requires very little water. California Native Plant Society’s meetings: 3rd Tuesday every month (except August), Casa del Prado room 101, Balboa Park, starting at 6:30 pm. March 20: California Native Bees and their Pollen Plants For more information, visit: www.cnpssd.org
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized the City of San Diego's Environmental Services Department (ESD) for the second consecutive year with its 2017 Food Recovery Challenge Award.The agency touted the City's leadership for its Commercial Food Waste Diversion Program. Food waste is the largest single component of San Diego's disposed waste stream, representing 15 percent (approximately 200,000 tons) of what is landfilled annually, and this has been a key area of focus for years.The City is well on its way to achieving its ambitious goals to divert 75 percent of all solid waste from going into the Miramar Landfill by the year 2020, 90 percent by 2035 and achieve "zero waste" by 2040. Efforts to reach these goals include increasing its recycling program outreach efforts by promoting the reuse of more materials and diverting more recyclable or reusable waste from the Miramar Landfill, thereby extending the life of the landfill. "The City has been composting food
scraps at the Miramar Greenery since the 1990s," said ESD Director Mario X. Sierra. "Kudos to the ESD's Waste Reduction Division for going over and above the call of duty to create and implement food waste diversion programs that set new standards for others to follow.This recognition is directly related to them and their efforts." The City's Commercial Food Waste Diversion Program started as a pilot program with grocery stores and discards from the central produce markets, and then became a permanent program with the advent of military participation.The Navy began recovering and contributing sterilized food waste from the ships returning to port.The City's food scraps composting program was a pilot program until 2009, when the Miramar Greenery expanded to 75 acres, and food waste became part of its official feedstock. Currently, there are 75 active commercial participants in the Commercial Food Waste Diversion Program. Please visit the EPA's website at (http://bit.ly/2F6smFw) for more details about the award. For more details about the City's recycling programs visit www.recyclingworks.com.
16 • The Clairemont Times • March 2018
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MARCH LIBRARY EVENTS NORTH CLAIREMONT BRANCH 4616 CLAIREMONT DR. 92117 (858) 581-9931 All San Diego Public Libraries will be closed 3/30 & 3/31for Cesar Chavez Day. Memoir 101 a fun, interactive workshop on how to write about your life began last month but there are still two workshop days. Please join us on March 7 and 14 at 1pm Call or stop by to sign up. If you are looking for a safe, encouraging place to practice English language skills, please consider attending the ESL Conversation Club on Fridays at 12:30pm Dr. Seuss’s Birthday is in March and North Clairemont plans to celebrate on 3/5 at 4pm with stories, games, crafts and snacks. Children, you can create your own Launching Rocket on 3/21 4pm Call or come in to register (required). The Second Tuesday Concert Series will feature an Irish program with fiddler Celia Lawley on 3/13 6:30pm Join us for this popular program featuring local professional musicians at no cost to you. The NC Book Club will meet at 6:30pm on 3/20 Check for copies of the March selection at the front desk. The Book Sale date is 3/10 Luck may be on your side when you purchase an item from The Friends of the North Clairemont Library. There is always an exciting opportunity, development or inspiration happening at the North C. Library. Ongoing, Always Free, Programs for Adults Include Social Scrabble for Grown Ups 3/6 5pm & 3/8 1pm Memoir 101: How to Write Your Life 3/7 & 3/14 1-2:30pm Bargain Book Sale—lots of high quality books at incredible values! 3/10 9:30-1 E-Book Clinic 3/10 & 3/24 10am Second Tuesday Concert Series “Celia Lawley” 3/13 6:30pm Adult Coloring Club 3/15 & 3/22 1pm & 3/27 6pm Book Club 3/20 6:30pm Fridays: ESL Conversation Club 12:30pm Ongoing, Always Free, Children’s Programs Dr. Seuss Birthday Celebration 3/5 4pm Launching Rockets 3/21 4pm Mondays: Sign Language Story Time (rec 0-5 y/o) 10am Mondays: Preschool Story Time (rec 3-5 y/o) 11 am Tuesdays: Story Time (rec 0-5 y/o) 1pm Wednesdays: Baby Story Time (0-2 y/o) 11:30am Wednesdays: Kids Craft Studio (3-8
y/o) 4pm Wednesdays: Family Story Time (all ages) 6:30pm Saturdays: Lego Builders’ Club (3-8y/o) 2pm Love on a Leash (ages 3-8 years) 3/10 10:30am Homework Help (grades K-8) - Mon &Thur, 3-6pm & Tues & Wed, 3-7pm CLAIREMONT BRANCH 2920 BURGENER BLVD, 92110 (858) 581-9935 Adults Mondays: American Sign Language for Adults 3pm This weekly class is taught by educator Thomas Hauser and will give students a basic understanding of ASL.The class runs six weeks and is about one and a half hours long. Space is limited so call to reserve your place. Literary Book Club 3/7 6pm The Book Club will be discussing, “Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle. Acrylic Painting with the Masters 3/17 1pm Artist and teacher Donna Davis will be here with another of our popular painting classes. All materials are provided so you just have to be here and make art! Make Your Own Book! 3/27 6pm Now is your chance to learn simple binding techniques and make a book of your own. Make one for yourself or create a unique gift for someone else! Space is limited so contact the library to reserve your place. Music Concert “North Park Winds” 3/28 6pm This free concert is sponsored by the Friends of the Clairemont Library. Kids & Teens Tuesdays: Homework Help 6pm With kids back in school that means the return of homework help available free at the library! Trained volunteers are here to help kids get unstuck on those difficult problems or writing assignments. Thursdays: Game Time 3pm Break out the board games for a little tabletop fun! Thursdays: Kids Craft Club 4pm Craft time has something new every time! Saturdays: Button Making 10:30am Express yourself by making your own buttons to decorate your backpack or clothes! Discover the Cosmos! 3/10 Noon It’s time again to “Spring into STEAM” with science based programs at all our branches. Kids age 9-12 can “Discover the Cosmos”, and learn about the other planets in our solar system! Presented by the Fleet Science Center. Book Club for Kids! 3/27 4:30pm A book club especially for kids ages 9
and up! This student-run club is a chance for young people to read and discuss their favorite books.This month the group will discuss “Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle. Little Ones Sign Language Storytime 3/1 & 3/15 10:30am Children and their caregivers can learn ASL sign language while hearing great stories! Presented by Jennifer Duncan. Baby & Toddler Storytime with Stay & Play 3/8, 3/22 & 3/29 10:30am Fun toddler stories along with play time afterwards! Fridays: Preschool Storytime with Miss Fran! 10:30am Join Miss Fran as she reads fun picture books and sings songs! All Ages 3D Printer-Clairemont Library’s own 3D printer is available for use by interested young people and adults. We have yet to set up regular open times but those interested in printing something can talk to library staff for details. Designs should be saved as STL files.To see thousands of pre-made designs go to www.thingiverse.com. Prints should take less than two hours. BALBOA BRANCH 4255 MT. ABERNATHY AVE, 92117 (858) 573-1390 Come celebrate the rich and colorful culture of the Irish at Balboa Public Library with some fancy foot work of the Rose Ritchie Academy of Irish Dancing. Also, Spring into STEAM with Glider Landing and Challenge Island at your favorite local library branch! Both of these events are free to the public, but registration is required! Sign up now online! Special Events Glider Landing 3/19 4pm Spring into STEAM: Learn about flight and then land your glider on a replica aircraft carrier. Registration required, Limit 25. Ages 9-12 Challenge Island 3/21 3:30pm Pinball-Design and play on your own pinball machine! Grades 1st-5th Registration required Irish Dancing 3/15 3:30pm Come and see intricate footwork and music that comes from the heart. All invited! Children’s Book Discussion 3/23 3:45 (3rd-6th) New Book Discussion for 7th & 8th Graders! 3/9 3:45 Sign up and join us for a fun discussion of “The Giver” by Lois Lowry & “Things Hoped For” by Andrew Clements.
Recurring Children Events Tuesdays: Homework Help 4-6pm (K-8th) If you need help with your homework, Miss Heidi is here to help with your questions. Wednesdays: Great Read Aloud with Miss Terri (K-2nd) 6pm Saturdays: Kids Krafternoon 1-2pm Come and make a fun craft at your library. Preschool Story & Craft with Miss Remi 3/1 & 3/15 10am (pre-5y/o) Listen to a terrific story and make a story-based craft. Wee Reads 3/2, 3/9 & 3/23 10:30am (b-5 y/o) Enjoy a fantastic time at the library with stories, music and rhymes. Signing Storytime with Miss Jennifer 3/8 & 3/22 10am (b-5y/o) Miss Jennifer uses sign language to enhance the reading of well-loved children’s picture books concluding w/ singing & bubbles Lego Club 3/5, 3/12 & 3/26 4pm We supply the Legos you supply the imagination Paws to Read 3/13 6pm (K-5th) Therapy dogs provide a positive environment for children to practice reading aloud. Come and enjoy reading to our sweet therapy dogs provided by Love on a Leash. Drop in & Play 3/16 10:30am (b-5y/o) Enjoy a relaxed & informal play time with your child while getting to know other families. Pajama Signing Storytime 3/27 6pm Come in your jammies and enjoy stories and signing with Miss Jennifer! Birth-5y/o Teens DIY 3/28 3:30pm (7th-12th) Drop by and create fun crafts with Miss Parween! Materials provided. Recurring Adult Events Wednesdays: ESL Language Coach for Adults 6:30pm-7:30pm ESL Coach will assist adults with various ESL needs such as reading, writing and speaking in everyday life. Happy and Healthy Adults 3/5 & 3/12 11:15am Join us for a relaxing fitness program presented by Lois Schenker. Stitching Circle 3/6 & 3/13 1:30-3pm Bring your knitting, crocheting and other stitching projects. Balboa Book Discussion Club 3/20 11:45am Join us for a lively book discussion of “The Professor and the Madman” by Simon Winchester. Tech Training 3/3, 3/7, 3/17, 3/21 & 3/28 12:30pm Do you need a little help with your electronic device, setting up your email, or other basic computer questions? Sign up is required.
The Clairemont Times • March 2018 • 17
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New Client Special
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Tahi Breed: Russell Terrier DOB: 6/30/2002 Place of Birth: Jamul, CA Likes: Carrots, walks around the block, car rides, air swimming, turtles, visiting neighbors, mealtime. Dislikes: Loud noises, cold weather, beer.
Name: Eva Age: 4 years old Gender: Spayed female Breed: American Pit Bull/Terrier mix ID #: 133162
Adoptable Pet of the Month
Adoption Fee: $95
permanent microchip identification, current vaccinations, 30 days worry free insurance from Trupanion Insurance and a certificate for a free veterinary exam! Eva is available for adoption at San Diego Humane Society’s Oceanside Campus at 2905 San Luis Rey Rd. To learn more about making her part of your family, please call (619) 299-7012. ADOPTION HOURS: 7 DAYS A WEEK 10 A.M. TO 6 P.M.
towels, Jarred baby food (beef and gravy) Wild bird seed, Millet seed spray, Nyjer seed, Boxes of Kleenex, Trash bags: 45 gallon size, Timothy hay, Boxes of vinyl exam gloves, Gauze squares: 2” x 2”, Plastic animal aquariums, med/lg Ceramic dog bowls, Straw rabbit mats, Dog kibble, Canned cat food Flea medication: Advantage/Frontline, Gift cards to Home Depot, Gasoline, Petco, Petsmart, Office Depot Wildlife Care Center Custer St, San Diego, CA 92110 (619) 299-7012 Open 7 days a week 9am-5pm
Ever Thought about a Career in Commercial Fishing? Commercial Fishing Apprenticeship Program
www.sdhumane.org Eva, a 4-year-old American Pit Bull/Terrier mix, is a sweet pitty looking for a loving home to call her own. Eva loves attention and going for walks, plus she’s house trained and crate trained. She can be a little picky about her dog friends. Because of this, she needs to meet any dogs in the home prior to leaving our care. However, because of her energy level, she cannot live with any cats. She's a fun, energetic dog who would make a terrific companion. Her adoption fee includes her spay,
This family friendly, free event will be one you won’t want to miss! Come and join us on March 3rd from 10-2 for our 9th annual baby shower! Every spring we see an influx of patients due to our wonderful San Diego weather! The baby shower helps us prepare for all the patients we see in spring and summer! It’s the only day of the year we open our doors to the public! Enjoy arts and crafts, food, other organizations, our animal ambassadors, and a tour of our care center!! We always welcome donations, check out our amazon wish list! Come by and spread the word! Project Wildlife Wishlist: Paper
Where: Handlery Hotel, Presidio Ballroom 950 Hotel Circle N, San Diego, 92108 When: Monday, March 5th 2018, 4:30-7:30 pm How: Come & meet veteran fishermen to find out what it means to have a career in commercial fishing in the 21st century; and learn more about
the state’s first commercial fishing apprenticeship program! Why a commercial fishing apprenticeship? 1. Gain diverse, relevant skills working under experienced fishermen 2. Employment and classroom instruction while training 3. Be at the heart of the local, sustainable seafood movement 4. Find info and registration at: https://caseagrant.ucsd.edu/apprentice Questions? Contact: Theresa Talley, tstalley@ucsd.edu, 858-200-6975
For more news and information visit: www.clairemonttimes.com
18 • The Clairemont Times • March 2018
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BUSINESS/SERVICE DIRECTORY & CLASSIFIEDS CLEANING LADY
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TO ADVERTISE CALL THE CLAIREMONT TIMES AT 858 752 9779
The Clairemont Times • March 2018 • 19
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POLICE BLOTTER VEHICLE BREAK IN 6000 Mt. Aguilar Dr. 4000 Mt. Acadia Blvd. 4900 Lillian St. 2200 Balboa Ave. 4400 Bond St. 5400 Balboa Ave. 2400 Ulric St. 3200 East Fox Run Way 4000 Mt. Acadia Blvd. 4900 Mt. Bigelow Dr. 3800 Canning Ave. 1400 Tecolote Rd. 3700 Balboa Ave. 5900 Linda Vista Rd. 4600 De Soto St. 3500 Del Rey St. 6700 Tait St. VANDALISM 4200 Moraga Ave. 4200 Clairemont Dr. 6600 Tait St. 7000 Tait St. 1100 Morena Blvd.
VEHICLE THEFT 3000 Genesee Ave. 1000 Morena Blvd. 4900 Mt. Casas Dr. 4000 Taylor St. FRAUD 3100 Clairemont Dr. 4700 Mt. Casas Dr. 5600 Balboa Ave. 2400 Ulric St. RESIDENTIAL BURGLARY 4900 Mt. Etna Dr. 2700 Ulric St. COMMERCIAL BURGLARY 6900 Linda Vista Rd. 5600 Balboa Ave. BATTERY 3800 Clairemont Dr. 4000 Raffee Dr.
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“If you do not report it or call us, in our mind it did not happen” San Diego Police Officer Call 911 to report an emergency Non Emergency 24 hours (619)-531-2000 www.sandiego.gov/police Compiled from info at www.CrimeMapping.com
San Diego Unified Police Identify Student Suspected of Making False Threats on Social Media Against Four District Schools The San Diego Unified School District police department has identified a student who is suspected of posting false threats against four schools on social media following the tragic shooting in Parkland, Florida. District police identified a seventh-grade student who attends a San Diego Unified school as the suspect two days after social media messages started appearing on Facebook and Snapchat that warned of a potential shooting at Creative Performing Media Arts Middle School (Conrad Ave in Clairemont), James Madison High School (Clairemont), San Diego High School, and the School of Creative and Performing Arts. School Police immediately investigated the potential threats, and quickly determined they were non-credible. However, out of an abundance of caution, School Police sent additional officers to the campuses named in the postings this week. On Feb. 21, the district was made aware of an anonymous social media post, involving two schools: Madison High School and Creative Performing Media Arts Middle School. On Feb. 22, a similar message was posted that added San Diego High School and the School of Creative and Performing Arts to the list of schools. The post stated, in part:“Biggest shooting in history on its way. San Diego’s on its way to join the trend. Be ready ha!” School Police determined
that the threats were non-credible after interviewing the student. “These types of comments are no joking matter, and they come with consequences. There are consequences in terms of student discipline, and there are consequences in terms of unnecessarily increasing anxiety and fear in the community,” said Michael Marquez, district police chief. The student was apparently inspired by similar false threats of school violence posted and reposted on social media nationwide in recent days. Superintendent Cindy Marten commended School Police for its ongoing commitment to keep schools safe and secure for students and staff. “The safety and security of our students is the district’s top priority. Our School Police work with educators every day to ensure that they have a safe learning environment,” Marten said.“School safety begins at home with establishing a foundation of communication with your children. Talk to your children, monitor their social media and engage in dialogue about the consequences of their words and actions.” The case is still under investigation by the district, which will consider whether or not to recommend formal charges and determine disciplinary action.
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Sustainable Landscaping Guidebook While supplies last the San Diego Water Authority is giving away a 71-page guidebook on how best to upgrade your landscape in an environmentally way. Copies are available at the San Diego County Water Authority in Kearny Mesa at 4677 Overland Ave., San Diego 92123 or visit www.sustainablelandscapessd.org for more information.
20 • The Clairemont Times • March 2018
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