Inland Edition, February 16, 2024

The Coast News

VOL. 11, N0. 4

VISTA, SAN MARCOS, ESCONDIDO

Escondido bids Mello goodbye

Mom pleads guilty in kids’ deaths on 78

By Laura Place

VISTA — A woman whose two children were struck and killed on a Vista freeway last June pleaded guilty last week to felony child endangerment and DUI charges.

Sandra Ortiz, 34, of Vista, entered her plea on Feb. 8 in Vista Superior Court. The remaining charges of gross vehicular manslaughter were dismissed, according to San Diego County District AttorORTIZ ney’s Office spokesperson Tanya Sierra.

Ortiz had pulled over to the side of state Route 78 on June 18, 2023, after a piece of luggage reportedly fell from her vehicle onto the freeway. Two of her children exited the car and entered the lanes of traffic to try to retrieve the luggage when they were struck and killed by an oncoming vehicle.

Ortiz and her four other children were in the car nearby when 10-year-old Alan and 16-year-old Amy were killed.

Ortiz was initially arrested on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter, child endangerment, and driving while intoxicated and placed in custody on $500,000 bail.

The DA’s Office alleged that she had a blood alcohol level of 0.14% after the TURN TO GUILTY ON 3

Feb. 16, 2024

Council repeals citywide tax district

By Samantha Nelson

SoakCal

Rainy February continued last week as the area’s most recent storm dumped over 3 inches on Inland North County — and more wet stuff could arrive in the coming week.

CREWS MANAGE minor flooding Feb. 1 at W. East Drive and North Drive in Vista. The county saw precipitation each of the first nine days of the month, according to the National Weather Service. Courtesy photo/City of Vista

Esco adding roundabout

Relocation help sought

The city plans to use reallocated COVID relief dollars for several projects, including a second roundabout as part of its Grand Avenue Vision Project.

Low-income residents of the Villa Serena apartment complex in San Marcos seek relocation support as redevelopment will displace them in May.

Story on 3

Story on 9

ESCONDIDO — The Escondido City Council voted to repeal the city’s Mello-Roos tax district earlier this month, a move aimed at easing financial burdens on new property owners and developers.

The Jan. 24 decision comes after a month of deliberation since the council set the community facilities district rates at $0 in December. During this time, Deputy City Manager Christopher McKinney cautioned that future councils might increase the rates unless the special tax district was eliminated.

Established in 2020, the Mello-Roos community facilities district is an additional tax for real property owners to help fund city services for new developments.

Before its repeal, developers in Escondido had a few options: they could establish their own special tax district for residents of the new development, annex their development into the citywide Mello-Roos tax district, or request a concession through the state’s density bonus law by providing affordable housing, which would waive the Mello-Roos tax.

In 2022, the city began reviewing the tax rate to determine any necessary adjustments, such as lowering it or narrowing its intention for specific city services, like public safety, instead of general services.

“There was a concern that it was becoming a hindrance to developers,” McKinney told The Coast News.

Unlike those applied to specifTURN TO MELLO-ROOS ON 5

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Feb. 16, 2024

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T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 16, 2024

Vista train collision kills pedestrian

THE CITY plans to use COVID-19 relief money to add a roundabout at Kalmia Street and Grand Avenue during the second phase of the Grand Avenue streetscape improvement project. Photo by Samantha Nelson

By City News Service

VISTA — A pedestrian was fatally struck by a Sprinter train in Vista on Feb. 4, authorities said.

The collision occurred just before 5 a.m. between Vista Village Drive and Guajome Street in Vista, near mile-post marker 109.5 on the North County Transit District line that travels from the Oceanside Transit Center to the Escondido Transit Center, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.

Deputies and fire personnel responded to the collision and declared the male victim dead at the scene.

The day before, a pedestrian was killed after being fatally struck by a Burlington Northern Santa Fe train on Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

The train collision occurred just before 2:20 a.m. Feb. 3 near milepost marker 219.5 on the NCTD train tracks that travel through the base, according to the Sheriff’s Department.

Military police and Camp Pendleton fire personnel responded to the collision and declared the male victim dead at the scene.

Authorities urged anyone with information about either collision to call the Sheriff’s Department at 858-565-5200.

Esco gets $100K for transportation

REGION — A statewide pilot project awarded $1.2 million split across 12 nonprofits, local governments, transit agencies and Native American tribes to help identify transportation challenges in under-resourced communities.

Each awardee received up to $100,000 from the Clean Mobility Options Voucher Pilot Program to conduct community transportation needs assessments that will help them to identify — and eventually address — transportation challenges faced by their residents.

San Diego County had two needs assessment voucher recipients: the city of Escondido, which received $100,000, and the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians, which received $99,960.

E-bike safety bill proposed Young riders would have to pass a test

By Laura Place

Escondido redirects COVID-relief funds

By Samantha Nelson

ESCONDIDO — The City Council has reallocated American Rescue Plan Act dollars from the discontinued aquatics facility project to fund several other projects throughout the city, including splash pads at Grove Park and an additional roundabout on Grand Avenue.

A portion of the $5 million in COVID-19 relief funding set aside for the new aquatics center project, put on hold indefinitely last October, will fund the roundabout and splash pads following the council’s Jan. 31 approval.

Approximately $2.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding will go towards the Grove Park splash pads, an amenity that residents have requested from the city for several years.

“The community has been asking for years for a splash pad,” said Councilmember Consuelo Martinez, who noted Grove Park is a good location thanks to its restrooms and central location.

Initially, only one roundabout at the Broadway and Grand Avenue intersection was included in the second phase of the Grand Avenue Vision Project. However, an additional $1.2 million from the remaining ARPA funds has allowed the city to install a second roundabout at Kalmia Street and Grand Avenue.

According to city staff, the project’s second phase

GUILTY

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

crash (well over the 0.08 legal limit), lacked a valid driver’s license, and did not make any effort to stop the children from exiting the vehicle or get them out of the freeway.

She was released soon afterward with supervision but found herself back in jail the following month after violating multiple conditions of her release, including drinking alcohol and not charging her monitor.

ABOUT $2.5 MILLION in American Rescue Plan Act funds will go to bring splash pads to Grove Park. Photo by Samantha Nelson

is expected to begin in October after Cruisin’ Grand ends for the season.

A rule change from the federal Treasury Department also necessitated some shifting of ARPA funding for other projects, staff noted. The changes include requiring the city to provide an estimate for the total allocation of funds by April 30 and to have all funds obligated by Dec. 31.

Staff recommended using about $6.2 million in ARPA funds to provide library services in 2025 and 2026.

The city owns the Escondido Public Library, but Library Systems & Services runs it under a management agreement ending June 30, 2027. Staff recommended terminating the agreement and negotiating a new one through 2026 to find a longer-term solution.

Eliminating the current management agreement for library services also eliminates the $3 million annual cost over the next two years, easing the city’s estimated $10 million annual structural deficit.

The city will also provide $1.8 million for the management fee and utility costs of the California Center for the Arts in 2025.

Staff is expected to bring new management agreements for the California Center for the Arts and the library in the next few months.

The city will also use $475,000 in ARPA funds to purchase new Reidy Creek Golf Course equipment, including a tractor, bunker rake, utility vehicle, greens mower, turf sprayer, and broadcast topdresser.

Another $115,000 will go toward a feasibility study

from the University of California Agricultural and Natural Resources Department that will look at creating a business incubator and providing workforce development resources in Escondido for agriculture and agri-tech companies.

Staff also shifted ARPA funds away from several park projects instead of using park development funds on them.

Deputy City Manager Joanna Axelrod said the change frees the park projects from the ARPA deadline strain and moves about $8.1 million in relief funding to the previously mentioned projects while still funding park projects.

“We’re not rating or defunding any existing park projects,” Alexrod said.

The city’s annual $820,000 in park development revenue will pay for the additional $796,000 required to complete the park projects. Axelrod noted that yearly revenue would increase once upcoming housing development projects, including Nutmeg Homes, Eclipse, Mountain House, and Palomar Heights, come online soon.

The park projects to be funded with park development funds instead of ARPA include Grape Day Park improvements, Westside Park Skate Park construction, pickleball court installations, the John Masson Bike Park at Jesmond Dene and the Ryan Park field lighting project.

According to San Diego County Sheriff’s records, Ortiz was not in custody as of her plea.

The plea deal reached last week did not include a stipulated sentence; however, Sierra said the charges come with a maximum of 10 years and eight months in prison.

A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for July 22.

The Public Defender’s Office, which assigned an attorney to Or- AMY MONTSERRAT, 16, and Alan Gerardo, 10, were struck by a car and killed tiz, did not respond to requests for in June trying to retrieve a suitcase that had fallen off the family’s car on the 78 in Vista. Courtesy photo/Aguilar family comment.

SOLANA BEACH — Elected leaders continue pursuing legislation to improve e-bike safety, with Assemblymember Tasha Boerner putting forward another bill last week that would require young e-bike riders statewide to take and pass a written safety test.

On Feb. 9, Boerner, D-Encinitas announced the bill alongside North County and San Diego leaders at Earl Warren Elementary School in Solana Beach.

She said the intent is to equip the rising number of young riders with a clear understanding of traffic rules and ensure both kids and their parents understand the responsibility of riding an e-bike.

“E-bikes provide that sense of freedom that so many kids and Californians are looking for, but it’s crucial that we ensure they know how to ride using the rules of our roads, and make safe and smart decisions when sharing the road with cars and pedestrians,” Boerner said.

Assembly Bill 2234 is an altered version of another bill introduced by Boerner early last year. AB 530 proposed requiring a license for all e-bike riders over 12 without a valid driver’s license issued through the DMV. However, due to a DMV moratorium on any licensure changes until 2030, Boerner said they had to change tack. Instead of a license, the new bill proposes having students pass a written test based on the safety training issued by the California Highway Patrol last fall as part of AB 1946, also authored by Boerner.

Like AB 530, this bill would require a state-issued ID for those who pass the test.

“It’s kind of a workaround. That’s why you have the state-issued ID, and you have the written test,” Boerner said. “We introduced AB 530 last year to get the dialogue started, and we did AB 2234 so we have a clean slate this year.”

Leaders from San Diego, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Encinitas, Carlsbad, and local school districts supported Boerner’s bill. Many of these cities have adopted stricter e-bike regulations in response to increased accidents over the past two years, with improved enforcement of bike laws and bike safety presentations in local schools.

Despite this, leaders say more consistent regulations are needed on the TURN TO E-BIKE ON 15

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T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Opinion & Editorial

The CoasT News

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Rainy reminder: Get creative on homeless

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Feb. 16, 2024

Landlords should welcome tenants running child cares

I

By Alan Pentico

magine this: You’re a parent who needs to find a safe place for your child while you work. Then you find out a neighbor right in your building operates a family child care. That’s right — pick-up and drop-off are steps away from your own front door.

Sounds dream-cometrue convenient, right?

That’s one big reason why landlords should support and even encourage tenants who want to provide child care in their apartments.

Landlords are already required by law to allow family child care in rental homes of any kind: apartments, townhomes, condominiums and single-family residences. I believe this is not only a mandate, but an opportunity for rental housing providers.

After all, our community is in a child care deficit — and landlords, who are a part of the fabric of our community too, can help.

Child care is a “sector in crisis” countywide, according to a 2022 study by the University of San Diego and the San Diego Foundation.

More than 360 child care centers and family child care homes have closed since the pandemic, and there are no available licensed child care options for 48% of children ages 0 to 5 whose parents work.

While child care is a countywide challenge, some areas were notable for the gap between supply and demand.

Some of the most difficult places to find child care for kids ages 0 to 5 included the North County areas of Escondido, Oceanside and Carlsbad, according to the study.

For infants and toddlers, the toughest areas

to find child care included Encinitas and Rancho Peñasquitos.

Landlords may have some concerns about having a child care on the property, such as traffic or noise — but again, this use is allowed by law. And there are many benefits to keep in mind.

First, child care is a steady job. Everyone wins here — the tenant has a re-

Child care is a ‘sector in crisis’ countywide, according to a 2022 study by the University of San Diego and the San Diego Foundation.

for both tenants and landlords.

Under the California Health and Safety Code, small family child care facilities are not considered a “business use of property,” and so they would be protected under any leases or rental agreements that prohibit operating a business out of a rental home.

Tenants wishing to open a family child care must follow specific procedures, such as obtaining a state license and providing 30 days’ written notice to the property owner or manager.

As always, it’s important to be a good neighbor.

The same rules that apply to other residents apply to child care providers. For example, control excessive noise or activities that could damage the property.

Landlords, for their part, cannot discriminate against tenants operating daycares but may require a higher security deposit within the limits set by state law.

Additionally, child care operators must either obtain liability insurance, secure a bond or obtain waivers from parents acknowledging the lack of such coverage.

A family child care facility can foster a more vibrant, supportive and safe living environment for all residents.

It’s reliable income for the tenant and the landlord, it makes the building safer and it helps parents who live there.

Family child care makes our community stronger — and that alone is a great reason to embrace it in our buildings and communities.

liable source of income and the landlord can be more sure of receiving rent.

Having a family child care provider on-site is a major benefit for other tenants with children. For working parents, having access to quality child care within their own residential complex is a source of great comfort and convenience.

There’s also a safety bonus. The child care provider — plus any employees — are extra eyes and ears keeping watch on the property. With kids around, everyone is paying more attention.

Now, if you’re a renter thinking about starting a child care in your home, Alan Pentico, CAE, is there are a few things to the executive director of the do. Understanding the le- Southern California Rentgal framework is crucial al Housing Association.

look at what homeless individuals suffered during the record-level intense rains of early February demonstrated for a second consecutive year the utter inadequacy of programs to help California’s approximately 180,000 unhoused.

It also exposed the crying need for original thinking, going beyond today’s paltry shelters, most of them open only parts of the day.

At countless charity facilities that distribute clothing to the very needy, lines formed during and between downpours as thousands around the state sought shoes, plastic ponchos, blankets, water-resistant jackets and whatever else might offer a little relief from the seemingly relentless cold and damp that lasted almost a week.

It was a carbon copy of what happened in January 2023, when harsh rains that began the wettest winter in decades demonstrated starkly the inadequacy of this state’s many programs to help the homeless.

Yes, there were some shelter beds available, but many required clients to leave before 8 a.m. and did not allow many back in until after 6 p.m.

During that interval, in both years, thousands endured soakings seemingly without end as temperatures in most areas did not rise above the mid-50s.

What were officials doing during this mass drenching, while newspapers and TV showed pictures of mudslides and other problems of the housed?

In California’s largest county, Los Angeles, for one, the five-woman Board of Supervisors voted to urge the U.S. Supreme Court to let local governments criminalize occupants of homeless encampments that have become commonplace under freeway overpasses and along sidewalks.

Many local officials want the court to alter a 2020 ruling in an Idaho case called Martin v. Boise that held it is cruel and unusual punishment to make camping on public property a crime when the people involved have nowhere else they can legally sleep.

“The interpretations of (that case) have tied the hands of cities and counties in imposing common-sense time and place restrictions on some key public spaces to keep people safe and move those who want assistance into shelter,” said one Los Angeles supervisor. “We have no interest or intention to criminalize homelessness. We need clarification about what tools we have to address this crisis and keep people safe.”

So, the Los Angeles board voted to support a

california focus

tom elias

new appeal of a case from Oregon called Johnson v.

City of Grants Pass, which restricts local government’s ability to clear homeless encampments.

Sure, there are problems with encampments.

No one can deny some criminals hide out in them.

No one can deny that some encampments deny the public use of parks their tax dollars built and maintain.

No one likes encampments near schools.

But what execrable timing it was for officials to act against encampments just when many unhoused were being swamped while others lined up to beg for something, anything, to help them dry out and warm up.

Instead of sounding off against the homeless (while still saying they should not criminalized), public officials might have done better if they’d sent police cars and buses to collect some unfortunates forced to sleep in cardboard boxes on hard sidewalks while drenched.

The rains demonstrated just how serious this problem remains, despite California having thrown tens of billions of dollars at it. For sure, the state has more homeless today than when Gov. Gavin Newsom and the Legislature spent more than $10 billion to help reduce the problem in the 2022-23 budget.

Plus, civic efforts to create ever more affordable housing don’t help the homeless, when supposedly “affordable” units often rent for $1,800 per month or more, even without parking spaces. How many of the unhoused can pay that much each month?

Here’s one idea that could help, a tactic that could and should have begun when last winter’s rains first showed how desperate the need is: Use part of the huge government allocations to buy or lease some of the hundreds of millions of square feet that remain vacant today in office buildings, even where some companies now require white collar workers to report to offices at least part-time.

Without permanently converting those spaces to residences, they could at least offer dry indoor spaces where people could sleep.

But why would officials think creatively when they can instead order up legal briefs seeking more power to harass the homeless?

Email Thomas Elias at tdelias@aol.com.

5

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 16, 2024

Planners OK 119-unit apartment project

By Laura Place

ESCONDIDO MAYOR Dane White. Courtesy photo

Mayor: Shelter must first help city’s homeless

By Samantha Nelson

ESCONDIDO — The mayor is hopeful about working with county leaders to address homelessness in the region but remains concerned that future plans won’t prioritize the city’s homeless residents.

Earlier this month, the county Board of Supervisors approved an evaluation of county-owned sites for use as possible future emergency shelters for homeless people.

According to a statement from Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer’s office, the focus for shelters will be on sleeping cabins, safe parking spots, “sprung” or fabric shelters or repurposing existing buildings to help those now living on the streets.

Supervisors will review the site analysis in 120 days. Four sites were initially proposed in the San Diego region and one in Escondido, however, Lawson-Remer amended the proposed study to include consideration of other sites following some pushback regarding the original location.

The site in question is 620 East Valley Parkway, which is currently used as a parking lot and where the county’s former family resource office was located. The site is currently pending construction of a new affordable senior housing facility as the county seeks a firm to develop the project.

While completion of the affordable housing project is not expected for another two to four years, Lawson-Remer suggested that the site could help those in need in a temporary capacity in the meantime.

Mayor Dane White is opposed to the location serving as a temporary homeless shelter due to its proximity to downtown.

White fears a shelter in that location would hurt the downtown business district, which is already struggling following the loss of several tenants.

The mayor is also concerned about the county bringing in houseless individuals from neighboring cities to a temporary shelter that would eventually disappear, thus leaving many new homeless in its TURN TO HOMELESS ON 15

SAN MARCOS — A 119-unit apartment project proposed for a long-vacant piece of land off Capalina Road earned the unanimous recommendation of the city’s Planning Commission this week and will now go to the City Council for approval.

The Capalina Apartments project is planned for a 2.5-acre site between Capalina and West Mission roads. Six units will be deed-restricted for very low-income households or those making less than 50% of the area’s median income.

At the Planning Commission’s Feb. 5 meeting, applicant John Rilling requested that the site zoning be altered from mixed-use 3 to mixed-use 2, allowing for residential and commercial development. He claimed housing would better serve the site than a purely commercial development.

“This is a prime residential location near job centers, educational hubs and transit,” Rilling said.

“I’m very confident that we will deliver a wonderful project.”

Commissioners called the infill site an “awkward” piece of land but largely agreed that housing would be a practical use. The site is bordered by various commercial uses, including the demolished Mission Plaza Shopping Center to the west and a mobile home park.

“I’ve been driving by this site for close to 50 years. It has been relatively unchanged. I think this is a

A RENDERING of the planned Capalina Apartments project at Capalina Road and West Mission Road in San Marcos. Six of the 119 units will be deed-restricted for very low-income households. Courtesy image

really nice opportunity to make a change in that area, and provide absolutely necessary housing,” said Commissioner Steve Kildew.

Along with a mix of studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom units spread between two four-story buildings, the Capalina development proposes 7,500 feet of outdoor recreation space with picnic areas, barbeque pits and a playground.

The application also

described plans for 4,000 square feet of commercial space, including a leasing office, fitness center, co-working space and mail room.

Commissioner Eric Flodine said while he supported the project, he was not convinced by using the word “commercial” for what appeared to be amenities for residents.

Rilling conceded that this was accurate, stating that there have been many

failing commercial spaces in the city, and they wanted the project to be successful.

“The approach was to incorporate commercial as an amenity and make it a great amenity for the residents of the apartment building,” Rilling said.

Due to the inclusion of deed-restricted affordable units, the project was granted a density bonus, allowing around 47 dwelling units per acre. The applicant was also incentivized

to reduce the onsite parking from the required 159 spaces to 147 spaces, with two electric vehicle charging spaces.

Drivers will only be able to access the complex via Capalina Drive. However, pedestrians can enter the complex from West Mission Road via a sidewalk connection.

A hearing date for the project to go before the City Council has yet to be confirmed.

High Tech High seeks work mentors for intern program

By Staff

THE VILLAGES, a newer housing development on the site of the former Escondido Country Club Golf Course, has its own Mello-Roos tax district to fund city services and will not be affected by the council’s decision. Photo by Samantha Nelson

MELLO-ROOS

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

ic developments, McKinney said citywide Mello-Roos tax districts tend to be more contentious.

While Escondido was not alone in having a special tax district, it was among the few local governments facing a lawsuit from the Building Industry Association of San Diego regarding the tax. Following the repeal of Mello-Roos, the city anticipates resolving the litigation.

Although the city could have benefited from approximately $500,000 in tax dol-

lars from around 500 homes under the tax district, McKinney said this amount was relatively small considering the city’s structural deficit.

Moreover, the tax district was perceived as unfair to residents of new developments, who would pay taxes for services they might not heavily utilize, such as public safety.

“It’s not fair — illegal, some would say — to charge taxes to this specific slice of the community,” McKinney said. “You can’t burden them with the cost of services for everyone, so that’s why, even though we’re in dire need of new revenue, we can’t take

that general revenue need and then apply it to specifically tax new residents.”

While repealing the citywide special tax district does not entail refunds for taxes already paid, the reversal will not affect specific tax districts on new developments, a practice the city will continue for the foreseeable future.

Some council members were particularly excited to repeal the tax.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you – it couldn’t have happened soon enough, as far as I was concerned,” said Councilmember Mike Morasco.

SAN MARCOS — High Tech High North County educators are looking for workplace mentors to lead student interns for one month beginning in May. All High Tech High North County juniors and seniors are required to complete an internship at an off-campus organization.

The internship consists of a five-week, fulltime immersion at the worksite. Students receive credit for successfully completing their internship and related cou Each student is paired with a workplace mentor who understands and supports the goals of the program. Mentors communicate regularly with the student’s teachers about their progress and their attendance.

All interns develop a substantial project with the mentor that should make a meaningful contribution to the organization.

In the past, interns have worked on projects that range from event and marketing support projects, web design projects, recruitment and retention projects with HR departments, networking, software and hardware sup-

port, and public relations support, including presentations in public forums and in the community.

After their internship, every student gives a presentation of what they learned to their mentor, parents, teachers and their fellow students. This culminating event celebrates the student’s accomplishments and offers an occasion for reflection and critique.

The internship is supported by the school, in which students prepare for and reflect on their internship experiences. Intern assignments include a journal, a photo essay, an in-depth interview with their mentor, creation of an internship portfolio and completion of their internship project.

“Please consider serving as a mentor,” said Internship Coordinator Tom Gaines. “Your expertise and guidance will make a real difference in the lives of our students and your organization as well.”

The internship program runs from May 6 to June 7. Interns will be required to attend five days per week, six hours per day.

Contact Gaines at tgaines@hightechhigh.org for more information on becoming a mentor.

6

Esco dissolves Historic Preservation Commission

By Samantha Nelson

ESCONDIDO — The city has dissolved its commission responsible for reviewing development projects in historic districts in the hopes of accelerating the permit process for new housing.

The Escondido City Council unanimously agreed on Feb. 7 to dissolve the Historic Preservation Commission, a volunteer advisory panel consisting of members appointed by the mayor and council.

The commission was responsible for reviewing historic site surveys, Mills Act contracts – an agreement between the city and the owner of a historic structure to ease property taxes in exchange for the building’s preservation — and reviewing projects proposed in historic districts of the city.

In 2022, the city’s Development Services Department initially suggested disbanding the commission, saying the group was struggling to make quorum at meetings due to a lack of commissioner attendance.

The department also cited a failure to recruit qualified candidates to serve on the commission.

These issues caused

projects to be delayed, according to staff. At the time, the city’s Boards and Commissions Subcommittee, which oversees the city’s various commissions, decided to observe the Historic Preservation Commission for a while longer. However, the subcommittee eventually recommended the commission’s dissolution as well.

“I never get excited about dissolving a commission, but this is something we’ve been talking about for a while,” said Councilmember Consuelo Martinez, who also serves on the Boards and Commissions Subcommittee.

City Clerk Zack Beck said the primary purpose of dissolving the Historic Preservation Commission is to better align the city with its Comprehensive Economic Development Study, which identified that the city’s process for permitting housing is slow.

“In a region with strong housing demand, the pace of housing permitting in Escondido is slow, relative to its peers,” the study states.

According to the study, Escondido does not face any significant obstacles to the development of new

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

THE CITY COUNCIL unanimously agreed to dissolve the volunteer panel in hopes of speeding up the permit process for needed new housing in the city. File photo

housing, and even though there has been an increase in the number of processed permits since 2017, the city is still lagging behind its neighbors, particularly in the development of new multifamily housing.

According to the study, slow permitting has two major effects on Escondido’s economy: it makes the city more expensive and thereby less attractive to younger, working families; and represents an “unnecessary drag” on the construction industry. The study notes

that construction added more jobs in Escondido than any other business sector between 2016 and 2021 but could have added more with faster permitting.

Staff and the Planning Commission will absorb the dissolved commission’s responsibilities.

Eliminating the commission also means the city would be ineligible for certain historical grants, but Beck said the city currently lacks the necessary staffing levels in order to apply for such grants.

CHATTER

Door Dorks: A decade of excellence in San Diego’s garage door industry

JASON CESSNA, president and owner of San Marcos-based Door Dorks.

Courtesy photo

What is your favorite business success story? I would say, in general, I am most proud of operating our business with the utmost integrity.

We stand behind our work 100% and aim for complete customer satisfaction. I’m also proud of the fact that we are able to offer our employees a great salary, paid time-off, full-coverage health insurance benefits and a 401K matching retirement plan.

What motivated you to join The San Marcos Chamber? We joined the San Marcos Chamber to feel a sense of community.

As someone doing business in San Marcos, what are you looking forward to accomplishing with the Chamber? To have the opportunity to network with and support other local, small businesses.

What's your best piece of business advice? Treat your customers with compassion and respect. Spend the time needed to educate them and help them choose the best possible option for their situation.

What question are you asked most frequently by clients? “My garage door closes halfway and then goes back up.” Usually this indicates an obstruction or misalignment of their safety sensors. We are happy to walk Website: doordorks.com them through some troubleshooting Instagram: @door_dorks over the phone to avoid a service call. Facebook: doordorkssandiego

Check SAN MARCOS it out! FARMERS MARKET Visit us in person, or online or on social media.

251 North City Drive, Suite 128G, San Marcos

sanmarcoschamber.com 760-744-1270

Should this website have been created?

I

San Marcos Chamber

Since 2009, Door Dorks has been at the forefront of garage door services in San Diego County.

As the most convenient, responsive, and friendly full-service garage door company, they utilize their “nerd-level” garage door knowledge to repair or replace damaged or aging garage doors. They joined the San Marcos Chamber driven by the desire to be part of a community!

How long have you been in business? Since 2009 What does your business do?

Door Dorks is the most convenient, responsive, and friendly full-service garage door company in San Diego County. We harness our nerd-level garage door knowledge to repair or replace your damaged or aging garage door. We take pride in our work, delivering exceptional service—on time, and within most budgets. We work super-efficiently to help you get back to the more important things in your day.

What sets you apart from others in your industry? We take pride in offering excellent customer service, expert workmanship, high quality parts and products, all at a fair price.

Feb. 16, 2024

every Tuesday from 3-7 pm Located on North City Drive in San Marcos. www.sanmarcosfarmersmarket.org

n 2019, my team was hired to build a fundraising website for a nonprofit. We worked carefully to acquire imagery, target messaging and fix tech issues.

The man in charge wanted to raise funds to help orphans, paying for the site himself. It was a noble gesture.

Whenever we’d communicate, I’d ask about his plans for marketing the site after completion. We mapped out strategies for advertising, social media, public relations and speaking at conferences and luncheons.

Finally, the truth came out. “I don’t know how to do any of this stuff,” he admitted.

“Do you want us to do it for you?” I asked.

“Yes, but I have no money,” he said.

As helping orphans is a worthwhile effort, I offered to help him find a college intern to handle his social media at a small cost. “You’ll control the message,” I assured him.

Then I volunteered to help supervise the intern, without charge.

My only request: Write a paragraph specifying his goals.

Predictably, the project outline never came…and I moved on.

And, unsurprisingly, he announced this week he’s canceling the website, stating, “It didn’t do what I wanted it to do.”

No great shock, since there are 18 billion-plus web pages vying for attention.

Without ongoing communications effort, nobody will come to a site they don’t

Who’s

NEWS?

Business news and special achievements for North San Diego County.

Send information via email to community@ coastnewsgroup.com.

ask mr. marketing rob weinberg know exists.

His fantasy was right out of the movie "Field of Dreams": if I build it, they will come. Only it doesn’t work that way in the real world.

Marketing success doesn’t happen by accident, and just hoping it’ll work out is a recipe for failure. Websites are living things that continue to grow and need constant attention.

And, as we’ve observed before, you must always promote today with an eye toward making a sale tomorrow.

I share this tale to encourage advance planning for your every marketing effort. Know your audience and objectives. Map out a quick plan of how you’ll promote your message, assign responsibilities and understand your budgets and funding sources.

Finally, whether it’s an employee or a hired gun, nobody can be expected to care about your effort as much as you do. Meaning if you don’t invest the time needed to market your organization, you can’t realistically expect anyone else to fill in the gaps for you.

With that said, I wish you a week of profitable marketing.

Learn more at www. askmrmarketing.com. made the Fall 2023 dean’s list at their respective institutions: Riley Latus of San Marcos at Fort Lewis College in Colorado, and Steffanie Yeung of San Marcos and Andy Yu of Encinitas at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

RISING STARS

Paolo Antonio Martino of Encinitas, a senior majoring in financial information and analysis, was named a presidential scholar for the Fall 2023 semester at Clarkson University in New York.

The Encinitas Chamber of Commerce held its fifth Rising Star of the Month event for the 2023-2024 school year on Feb. 7, recognizing the following students who have demonstrated character, integrity, love of learning and community involvement: Sheila Menon from Canyon Crest Academy, Cordi Henigan from La Costa Canyon High School, Lochland McStravick from San Dieguito High School Academy, Ginger Sage from Sunset High School and Maya Alam from Torrey Pines High School.

STUDENT HONORS

PLASTIC BAN

COLLEGE GRADS

The following students graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology in December: Rizi Ai and Julia Nordbakk of Carlsbad, Adrien Cao of San Marcos and Duncan Wycliffe of Oceanside.

PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR

The following students earned the distinction of faculty honors at the Georgia Institute of Technology: Adrien Cao of San Marcos, Lucas Luwa of Rancho Santa Fe and Garrett Warner of Encinitas.

Sen. Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas), Sen. Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) and Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-Orinda) have announced they will be introducing legislation to ban the use of plastic bags DEAN’S LIST at grocery and other stores The following students that sell food.

7

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 16, 2024

Caltrans declares emergency after OC landslide San Clemente rockfall halts rail service to O’side

By Laura Place

REGION — Caltrans has issued an emergency declaration after a recent landslide in San Clemente that continues to shutter passenger rail service between San Diego and Orange counties.

The Jan. 24 landslide, which brought debris from the hillside slope along Mariposa Trail Bridge in San Clemente onto the rail right-of-way, has indefinitely shut down all passenger service between San Juan Capistrano and Oceanside, part of the 351-mile LOSSAN (Los Angeles-San Luis Obispo-San Diego) corridor.

The Feb. 1 emergency declaration allows the Orange County Transportation Authority to access $10 million in immediate emergency funding to protect and restore rail service along this segment of the LOSSAN corridor.

“This section of rail is vital to the economic prosperity of the entire Southern California region and provides critical commuter, intercity and freight rail service every day. This emergency declaration will give OCTA the immediate funding needed to fix this landslide and get the trains

CREWS PLACED plastic tarps over the site of a Jan. 24 landslide along the rail corridor in San Clemente to prevent further soil movement. Passenger rail service between San Juan Capistrano and Oceanside is halted indefinitely. Courtesy photo/Caltrans

moving again as quickly and safely as possible,” said Caltrans Director Tony Tavares.

Over the past week, crews have worked to stabilize the site by removing two sections of the Mariposa Pedestrian Bridge, laying plastic tarps over the slope to protect it from the ongoing rain and implementing drainage infrastructure.

While minor soil move-

ment has continued at the site, OCTA said these measures have helped to slow it down significantly.

BNSF freight trains can continue running through the area at 10 mph during overnight hours.

On Feb. 2, OCTA and Metrolink announced plans to construct a barrier wall to prevent further landslides onto the tracks. OCTA has also been working with the

California Transportation Commission to secure an additional $2 million for debris removal and other pre-construction services.

“The path forward could include restoring limited passenger rail service during construction of the wall, but no timeline for letting passenger trains run again has been determined at this point. The safety of passengers, as always, will

guide that decision,” OCTA said.

A similar barrier wall was built along a different section of the rail line in San Clemente last summer after a separate landslide beneath Casa Romantica closed the rail.

State Sen. Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas), who represents the area from Laguna Niguel to La Jolla, said she is optimistic

that this retaining wall can be built expeditiously.

“The barrier wall built below Casa Romantica was completed much faster than the anticipated 3-week window, so hopefully this project will be similar,” Blakespear said on X, formerly Twitter, on Feb. 3.

The ongoing closure has long-reaching impacts on the region and the LOSSAN corridor. In 2022, according to Caltrans, Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner saw a ridership of around 1.6 million, and the Metrolink and North County Transit District’s Coaster trains carried 5 million passengers.

This closure marks the fifth time in the last three years that passenger rail service has been halted in San Clemente as the bluffs continue to be battered by erosion.

Elected leaders, including Blakespear and US Rep. Mike Levin, say agencies need greater collaboration to support rail resiliency in the long term and coordinate responses.

Last year, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also initiated a sand replenishment project in San Clemente to provide an additional buffer for the bluff and rail.

However, that project has been paused due to poor sand quality from the borrow site off Oceanside, with leaders considering switching to a borrow site off Del Mar.

CEA Brings Cleaner Energy Choices to Oceanside and Vista Clean Energy Alliance (CEA) will become the new default power provider for the cities of Vista and Oceanside, beginning April 1, 2024, joining existing members: Carlsbad, Del Mar, San Marcos, Solana Beach and Escondido.

CEA follows a community choice energy model that allows local governments to purchase power to meet their community’s electricity needs.

As an alternative to San Diego Gas & Electric for power generation, CEA offers residents and businesses clean energy options and competitive rates while reinvesting revenues into projects and programs that benefit your community.

HOW IT WORKS. ENERGY

1

Clean Energy Alliance purchases power directly from power providers and/or builds energy generation sources.

2

SDG&E delivers energy, handles billing and serves customers.

3

You receive energy at competitive rates.

The cities of Vista and Oceanside have selected Clean Impact Plus (50% renewable/75% carbon-free energy content) as the default energy option for both cities. However, CEA empowers customers with choice! Customers have the option to opt up to Green Impact 100% renewable, opt down to Clean Impact 50% renewable, or they may also choose to opt out of CEA and remain with SDG&E. We look forward to bringing cleaner energy and local control to Vista and Oceanside in April!

For more information, please visit TheCleanEnergyAlliance.org or call (833) 232-3110

8

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 16, 2024

No car, no problem on San Luis Obispo trip hit the road e’louise ondash Note: Recent weather has caused track closures affecting the Pacific Surfliner route in San Diego County.

See pacificsurfliner.com for details.

W

e’ve got three days, no car and lots to see in San Luis Obispo, or SLO Town as the locals call it.

How did we get here?

A 7½-hour ride on Amtrak’s Surfliner from the Oceanside Transportation Center. Landscapes and seascapes along the way were plentiful, then we walked the nine blocks to Hotel San Luis Obispo.

Its downtown location is within a short walk from so much of what brings visitors to SLO: the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa and Plaza (free tours daily); SLO Museum of Art (free admission and tours); the History Center of SLO, housed in a historic Carnegie Library (free); the SLO Children’s Museum; the historic Dallidet Adobe & Gardens (free); and the Ah Louis Store, a well-preserved, repurposed remnant

EL CAMINO HIGH SCHOOL graduate and Oceanside resident Jaydy Gonzalez co-founded Third Wheel Tours, which takes visitors through Wolff Vineyards in San Luis Obispo via custom sidecars. The idea was inspired by Gonzalez’ early childhood in the Philippines where motorcycles are a chief form of transportation. He and business partner A.J. Mara focus on touring family-owned vineyards in San Luis Obispo and Paso Robles. Photo by Tyler Small

of the town’s Chinese-American community that we can see from our hotel window.

Hotel SLO opened five years ago with a focus on sustainability. The thick, verdant, exterior plant wall is a clue to the hotel’s dedication to reducing its carbon footprint.

Further proof is the noticeably fresh and local fare served at Piadina, where Chef Ryan Fancher buys locally whenever possible.

(The crisp salad greens taste as if they are but minutes

from the garden.)

Freshness also is the first ingredient in the mojitos served on the rooftop High Bar, which we visit after walking the neighborhood and getting our bearings. From this perch, we can see several of the Nine Sisters, obvious peaks on the landscape created by volcanos 20 million years ago.

The Sisters run from Morro Rock on the coast east to SLO. Because Day One (travel day) had started so early,

we sleep in on Day Two and savor the coffee we make with the in-room espresso machine. We get a lift to our next stop, Wolff Vineyards, but it’s a short ride-share trip to any of the 35 vineyards in SLO Wine Country.

After sampling some Wolff wines, we hop into a sidecar-for-two, the creation of Oceanside resident Jaydy Gonzalez and business partner A.J. Mara. The two founded Third Wheel Tours, which takes visitors on rides through vineyards via these

one-of-a-kind vehicles. The idea was inspired by Gonzalez’s early childhood in the Philippines, where motorcycles are a chief form of transportation.

“In the Philippines, motorcycles can carry families of 10,” Gonzalez says. The Third Wheel experience, though, is designed to be a bit more “elegant.”

Still, I am expecting a bone-shaker, but our ride is a gentle one that includes the narration of Oceanside High School grad Isaac Barajas, who now lives on the Central Coast.

He says that vineyard owner Jean-Pierre Wolff uses methods throughout his 125 acres that are kind to the environment, like building boxes for owls that take care of rodents, planting native shrubs and grasses, and using a water-saving irrigation method Wolff invented.

Later we meet Wolff, who observes that the business of wine involves more than growing grapes.

“I’ve been here 25 years and I’ve seen a change in the customer profile,” says Wolff, a nuclear engineer turned winemaker. “Today’s customer wants more than just wine-tasting. (They) have become more keen on experiences. Third Wheel Tours gives us the opportunity to show off our sustainability (measures) in the vineyards.”

On Day Three, we meet Emma Saperstein, chief cu-

rator and director of education for the SLO Museum of Art, for a walkabout to see some of the 70 public artworks in and around downtown. They include publicly and privately funded murals large and small, stained glass, sculptures, mosaics, benches, bridge railings, and an incredible collection of painted utility boxes. (Find an interactive map here.)

There are plenty of choices for eats within a short walk of Hotel SLO. Here a couple of standouts: • Mama’s Meatball — Owner/chef Nicola Allegretta began creating dishes at the age of 9 in his mother’s kitchen in Italy. The smoked salmon pizza, New Zealand lamb and Lasagna al Forno are superb. The tiramisu (enough for two) is made at your table “so it doesn’t get soggy.” Plenty of delicious gluten-free options, including minestrone, a rare treat.

• Luna Red —The night was cold, so we enjoyed the festively lighted patio through the dining room window. And while some were brave enough to attempt the giant cauldron of Luna Red’s signature paella (for two to four), we opted for the smaller plates of king salmon tacos and lamb lollipops — every morsel a delight. Numerous excellent choices for the gluten-free and vegan crowd.

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

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Feb. 16, 2024

9

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Residents facing displacement plead for relocation support

By Laura Place

SAN MARCOS — The upcoming redevelopment of the Villa Serena Phase 2 apartment complex has elicited concerns for the 76 low-income residents who will be displaced come May. Led by affordable housing developer National CORE, the planned project will replace the 1970s-era affordable complex at 339 Marcos St. with an updated 63-unit development, providing much-needed twoand three-bedroom units.

Phase 1, completed last spring, replaced the other half of the Villa Serena property at 340 Marcos St. just across the road with an 85-unit development. The final 148-unit complex will be 100% affordable with all units deed-restricted for those making 30% to 60% of the area median income, LILIANA LOPEZ plays with her brother Sebastian outside Villa Serena while waiting for their other siblings to get home from school. Their family moved from the older Villa Serena apartor AMI. “The biggest takeaway ments into the newer ones across the street last year and are not among the 76 residents from residents is we need who will be displaced from the older complex in May. Photo by Laura Place bigger units, and we’re under-parked, and we have transition. Over the next tion. where their kids attend utility and sewer and water month, many said that help Residents said National school. issues. So that’s why we’re did not materialize, and CORE provided them with “We were given the list, doing this,” said John Sey- they began to panic. a list of other affordable and when we show up to lomour, National CORE’s San At the San Marcos City developments in the city in cations, they say there’s no Diego vice president of ac- Council’s Jan. 23 meeting, December where they would availability,” said Irma Rayquisition and forward plan- dozens of residents showed supposedly be able to find mundo, a single mom living ning. “Eighty percent of the up to plead with city lead- housing. However, upon at Villa Serena since 2013, units will be two and three ers for help. The majority contacting these complex- also through a translator. bedrooms.” were monolingual Spanish es, residents were told they “I need help. I don't know In late December, res- speakers. have multi-year waitlists. where to go with my kids.” idents living at the Phase “I agree that we need Most cannot afford to Many residents also 2 site received a 120-day to renovate the apartments, live in market-rate apart- claimed National CORE notice stating they would but at the same time, we ments, and they said they told them in December that need to vacate the property need help,” said Salvador are scared about having to they would be given relocaby May, and that National Gomez, a 13-year resident leave the area where they tion assistance, but later inCORE would help with the of Villa Serena, via transla- have lived for years and formed them that they were

not eligible due to waivers they had signed.

Following nearly four hours of comment and discussion, the City Council instructed National CORE to follow up with residents and provide more guidance in helping them find somewhere to go.

In turn, city leaders said they would reach out to other developments to assist in identifying available units, and make their own staff available to help National CORE. “I feel there needs to be more hand-holding here.

You can feel the tension in this room of people that are scared — I don't like that.

There needs to be true coordination,” said Mayor Rebecca Jones.

Community and Economic Development Director Tess Sangster the city will also keep track of any current and upcoming vacancies in affordable developments in the coming months.

“The city has contacted all affordable development partners with direct calls, emails and virtual meetings to ensure all are aware of the relocation in progress and to inform them of priority waitlist[s] for displaced tenants in another affordable development,” Sangster said.

during the Jan. 23 meeting.

Many of these same issues were also raised by residents in the Phase 1 development in 2021, causing the San Diego Tenants Union to become involved.

Beginning in 2012, National CORE began providing new tenants to 339 Marcos Street with a “Move-in Sheet” and “Waiver of Relocation Benefits Notice,” stating that signatories waive their rights to federal Uniform Relocation Assistance (URA) and state relocation assistance, respectively.

This assistance generally includes advisory services and payment for rent and moving expenses.

Many residents said that in their one-on-one relocation meetings with National CORE staff in January, they were told they were not eligible for benefits, and presented with the waivers they had signed.

However, multiple residents said the waiver was only in English at the time they signed or not fully explained to them, while others said they did not remember signing the waiver at all.

“I signed a waiver not knowing what was written on that waiver. I just came to find out that they’re pretty much kicking us out,” said resident Guadalupe Barrios via translation.

National CORE leaders Relocation assistance explained that the residents Concerns about not who were asked to sign receiving relocation assistance came up repeatedly TURN TO RELOCATION ON 10

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10

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Marketplace News

Feb. 16, 2024

Sponsored content

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PHASE 1 of the reconstruction of the Villa Serena Apartments was completed last year at 340 Marcos Street, above. Improvements to the remainder of the complex across the street will begin in June. Photo by Laura Place

RELOCATION

CONTINUED FROM 9

waivers were never eligible for benefits to begin with, and were not asked to give up any rights.

They said that under state law, National CORE is not required to provide relocation benefits to residents if they are informed upon move-in that the development is planned for reconstruction. National CORE began pursuing the redevelopment in 2012, and all residents who moved in after that point were asked to sign waivers recognizing their ineligibility.

Of the 76 residents currently in the complex, just 17 moved in before the 2012 cutoff and are eligible for full benefits, which could amount to up to $40,000 per family.

John Seymour, National CORE’s San Diego vice president of acquisition and forward planning. said giving this assistance to every displaced family would be infeasible, as the company would never be able to afford the redevelopment.

“If every resident who moved in was eligible, there would be no project because it would be so over-budget,” Seymour said.

However, National CORE leaders added that they are providing ongoing guidance and smaller payments to those who are not eligible for benefits.

“National CORE is providing $5,000 plus the return of security deposits to residents who don’t qualify for the relocation benefits. This far exceeds the requirements of federal law,” said National CORE spokesperson William Diepenbrock. “We are also offering individual counseling to all residents as we try to help them navigate the effort to find new housing, which we know can be difficult. This includes helping them connect with other developments where they will have priority and to other community benefit organizations designed to assist residents.”

Seymour also assured residents that National CORE would not allow anyone to wind up homeless. Back in 2021, Phase 1 residents who had not found housing by the move out date were given the

option of $10,000 for relocation assistance or temporary subsidized hotel accommodations at $650 per month.

“There is a fear of becoming homeless. National CORE will not let that happen, just like we did in the first phase,” Seymour said.

Project construction is planned to begin in June and last approximately two years. Phase 2 residents will be given priority to move back into the new development upon completion.

Translation

The city also faced criticism for not having a professional Spanish-language interpreter at the Jan. 23 meeting, leading to things literally being lost in translation.

While Jones said staff had been instructed to provide an interpreter, one never showed up. Instead, an individual from the audience agreed to assist in translating speakers’ comments into English for city leaders, and leaders’ remarks into Spanish for the speakers.

Despite this, many parts of the meeting where the Villa Serena project and relocation were being discussed were not translated into Spanish, leaving many attendees in the dark.

Councilwoman María Nuñez said this dynamic made it one of the most difficult council meetings she has attended. She represents District 1, where Villa Serena is located, and knows some of the affected residents personally.

“In terms of where we’ve been with language accessibility, it shows the complacency of the city,” Nuñez said. “As a city, it’s unacceptable for us not to have that basic level of service for our residents. It’s outrageous that we continue to do this.”

Despite the lack of professional interpretation, she said it was still important that residents were able to make their voices heard at the meeting.

An interpreter was present at the council's Feb. 13 meeting, where several Villa Serena residents showed up again to raise concerns to the council. Sangster said Spanish interpreters will be available at City Council meetings going forward.

In loving memory of

Richard (Rich) Alexander Miro October 18, 1935 January 1, 2024

Richard (Rich) Alexander Miro died at peace under hospice care in the early hours of New Year’s Day 2024.

Rich was born on October 18, 1935 in Chicago, Illinois to Marie Miro (Muzyka) and Michael Miro (originally Miroschnichenko).

Rich was predeceased in death by his parents and siblings Danny and Vera.

Rich’s formative years were spent in and around the Chicago metro area. He attended Fenton High School in Bensenville, Illinois, graduating in 1953.

Rich continued his education at Northern Illinois University (NIU), where he graduated in 1959 with a degree in Business Administration.

While Rich attended NIU he met Arlene Mirabelli. The couple married in May of 1959.

During his time at NIU he signed on with the U.S. Marine Corps, and after graduating college he and Arlene moved to Virginia for Rich to begin basic training.

Rich had two overseas tours of duty with the Marines (Okinawa and Vietnam) and honorably left active duty in 1970 with the rank of Captain.

Soon after leaving

11

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 16, 2024

the military he started a 29 year career with the City of San Diego as a Financial Analyst. Many of these years were spent working with the San Diego Police Department.

In retirement (2004) Rich volunteered at Brother Benno’s and the Mission San Luis Rey Parish.

Rich was committed to the friendships he obtained from his faithbased communities and volunteering duties.

He kept the accounting department at Brother Benno’s going during the pandemic, even though his age put him at high risk.

He will be remembered for his sense of humor, smile, raw honesty, unselfish contributions, and dancing prowess, as well as his love of craft beer, western movies, and football.

Rich is survived by his 8 children: Michele Broadhurst,Tom Miro, John Miro, Jill Miro, Stephen Miro, James Miro, Kristen Miro, and Paul Oliveri. He also leaves behind five grandchildren: Anthony, Andrew, Stephanie, Natasha, Taime and five great-grandchildren: Caia, Cyra, Otis, Liv, and Ozzy.

A Catholic mass for Rich will be held at The Parish Chapel at Mission San Luis Rey in Oceanside, CA on Friday, February 23rd, at 1:30 PM. Friends and family are welcome to attend and pay their respects.

Friends’ remembrances about Rich can be found on the digital Tribute Wall for Rich on the Oceanside Mortuary’s obituary website.

In memory of Rich, his family kindly requests that donations be made to Brother Benno’s or the Mission San Luis Rey Parish.

Although it’s difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, May looking back in memory helpcomfort you tomorrow.”

— Author Unknown

In loving memory of

Benjamin T. Ackison, Lieutenant Colonel, USMC (Ret.) Deccember 15, 1971 December 16, 2023

Benjamin T. Ackison, Lieutenant Colonel, USMC (Ret.), known as Ben or Benny to his family and friends, passed away on December 16, 2023. Born on December 15, 1971, Ben lived an outsized life over his 52 years and made a lasting impact on all those who knew him.

Ben grew up in the mountains of West Virginia and the beaches of Virginia Beach, Virginia.

He learned to track, hunt, and shoot from his grandfather at “Camp

Joy,” the family cabin in West Virginia. Ben played a different sport every season and surfed in the summers.

He graduated from Princess Anne High School in Virginia Beach, and James Madison University where he was a wide receiver for the Dukes football team.

Ben received a law degree at Regent University School of Law and a Master of Laws from George Washington University Law School.

Early in his career, Ben worked in sports and entertainment alongside his friend and mentor, Blake Cullen.

At age 25, Ben became the first general manager of the Outer Banks Daredevils, a collegiate summer baseball league team in North Carolina.

He also co-produced the Jazz on Granby music series in Norfolk, Virginia.

After the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, Ben heard the call to service and joined the U.S. Marine Corps as an Officer and Judge Advocate.

Ben served across

the globe during his more than 20-year career with the Marines, including in Afghanistan, Japan, Thailand, California, North Carolina, and at the Pentagon in Virginia.

In Afghanistan, Ben supported combat operations as the Deputy Staff Judge Advocate to First Marine Division, the command unit for all Marine Ground Forces in theater, and as the legal advisor to Regimental Combat Team 2.

Among his many roles stateside, Ben served as the senior Marine criminal defense counsel for the Western United States.

Ben lived in Leucadia for several years and frequented Beacon’s Beach where he spent some of his favorite moments riding early morning waves with the Surf Posse, a close-knit group of Marine Officers and their young sons.

Ben’s greatest love was being a father to his daughter, Angelina Rose Ackison, a freshman at West Virginia University.

Ben attended her dance recitals, took her to daddy-daughter dances, and learned to braid

her hair so it would not tangle. Ben was an unabashed “girl dad” and Angelina was the love of his life.

Ben is survived by daughter Angelina Rose Ackison, parents Larry Ronald Ackison and Barbara Sue Ackison, eldest brother Larry Ronald Ackison II along with sister-in-law Bonnie Anne Ackison, nephew Garret Logan Ackison, niece Lauren Grace Ackison, younger brother Chadwick Bryant Ackison, younger sister Felicia Nicole Ackison, nephew Jake Remus Armstrong, and all the JMU Dukes, U.S. Marines and other friends and family that had the pleasure and honor to know him.

A memorial service will be held at Tidewater Central Church of the Nazarene in Virginia Beach, Virginia on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. with light fare for family and friends to follow.

A closed internment will be held for family and fellow Marines at National Memorial Cemetery at Quantico, Virginia on Monday, March 11, 2024.

Share the story of your loved ones life... because every life has a story.

John Davis Parks Oceanside February 1, 2024

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For more information call or email us at: 760.436.9737 obits@coastnewsgroup.com Submission Process Please email your verbiage in email or word document format and a photo to obits@coastnewsgroup.com or call (760) 436-9737. All photo attachments should be sent in jpeg format, no larger than 3MB. the photo will print 1.625” wide by 1.5” tall inh black and white.

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Combine cornstarch with reserved juice. Stir into simmering vegetables. Cook until thickened. Makes 6 servings

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Feb. 16, 2024

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

EVENTS CALENDAR

13

Know something that’s going on? To post an event, visit us online at calendar.thecoastnews.com

FEB. 16

and only all-female salsa Belly Up, 143 S Cedros Ave, band, as they perform live at Solana Beach. the Belly Up. $14, 8 p.m. at Belly Up, 143 S Cedros Ave, PETER SPRAGUE Solana Beach.

Peter Sprague, a remarkable musician and guiKEEP DEL MAR GREEN tarist, performs as part of The Del Mar Village Concert Hour, a free music Association is hosting its enrichment series present“Keep Del Mar Green” com- ed for our students and the munity clean up. Volunteer community by the Palomar crews will spread through- College Performing Arts out downtown beach and Department. Free, 1-2 p.m. park areas to pick up trash. Feb. 22 at Howard Brubeck 3:30-5 p.m. Feb. 21 at Jim Theatre at Palomar College, Watkins Amphitheater at 1140 W Mission Rd, San L’Auberge Del Mar, 1540 Marcos.

Camino del Mar, Del Mar.

KITCHEN DWELLERS

Catch bluegrass band Kitchen Dwellers with psychedelic group TV Broken 3rd Eye Open at the Belly Up. $22, 9 p.m. at 143 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach.

‘CURIOUS INCIDENT ...’

Winner of the 2015 Tony Award for Best New Play, “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the NightTime” is an adaptation of Mark Haddon’s internationally best-selling novel. $35-$85, showing at various times from Feb. 16 to March REPUBLICAN CLUB 3 at the California Center The Republican Club for the Arts, 340 N Escondi- ENGLISH BAND Foghat, the classic rock group behind hits “Slow Ride” and “Fool for the of North County welcomes City,” performs Feb. 18 at Belly Up in Solana Beach.

Courtesy photo do Blvd, Escondido.

Carl DeMaio as its February meeting keynote speaker. ily-friendly performance, Foghat live at the Belly Up. Lomaland Dr, San Diego.

JC CURRAIS $30, 12 p.m. at The Broken Come watch live stand- teaching children about $55, 8 p.m. at Belly Up, 143 Yolk Cafe, 2434 Vista Way, music and dance.

First, “PeS Cedros Ave, Solana Beach.

O’SIDE FILM FESTIVAL up comedy in Escondido Oceanside.

The Oceanside Internafeaturing comedian JC ter and the Wolf” set to Sergei Prokofiev’s 1936 score DIRTY CELLO tional Film Festival returns Currais, as seen on DisDirty Cello is cello like for its 13th year. The festival ney, Comedy Central and recounts Peter’s adventures Conan O’Brien. $17, 6 p.m. in the family garden. $25, 2 you have never heard before. will feature 40 to 50 films at Grand Comedy Club, 340 to 3 p.m. Feb. 17 at Joan B. $17-$20, 4 to 6 p.m. Feb. 18 from around the world with ELIZABETH GILBERT Kroc Theater, 6611 Univer- at Pilgrim United Church of a mix of dark, comedy, docJoin us for an intimate E Grand Ave, Escondido. sity Ave, San Diego.

Christ, 2020 Chestnut Ave, umentaries, skate, surf and evening with bestselling auCarlsbad. more. 12 a.m. at The Brooks thor Elizabeth Gilbert, live ‘PLAZA SUITE’ TIJUANA STREET FOOD Theatre, 217 N Coast Hwy, at Balboa Theatre. 7:30 p.m.

Hilarity abounds in this at Balboa Theater, 868 4th Join Wild Foodie Tours Oceanside. portrait of three couples Ave, San Diego. for an all-inclusive, fun, successively occupying a suite at The Plaza. $20-$30 gritty, and insightful street EVERYTHING DISSOLVES ORIANTHI, BLITZ BROS for a total of six shows (Feb. food tour in Tijuana!. $69, Kline Swonger is a Catch Orianthi and SABROSAS 16-18) and Feb. 23–25, Fri- 12 to 4 p.m. Feb. 17 at Meet- cross-disciplinary artist days and Saturdays at 7:30 ing spot: McDonald’s San whose research and sculpWatch Sabrosas Latin The Blitz Brothers live at p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m.) Star Ysidro Trolley Station, 727 E tural work revolves around Orchestra, San Diego’s first the Belly Up. $35, 8 p.m. at Theatre Company, 402 N San Ysidro Blvd, San Diego. perception and psychology Coast Hwy, Oceanside. of space. The gallery is Feb. BLACK PIONEERS 6 to March 1 at the KrugPresented by Oceans- lak Art Gallery (Bldg 3400) ide Theatre Company, the on the MiraCosta College Oceanside Historical Soci- campus at 1 Barnard Dr, HAWK WATCH Learn about birds of ety, and Bliss Tea & Treats, Oceanside. prey up close and personal this original multimedia with the Wildlife Research theater performance high- WRITER’S SYMPOSIUM Institute’s Hawk Watch lights Oceanside Black Interview with team. 10 a.m. at Begent Firsts. $15, 7-8 p.m. Feb. 17 award-winning author Ranch, 18528 Highland Val- at Oceanside Theatre Com- Paulette Jiles (News of the pany, 217 N Coast Hwy, World) as part of the 29th ley Rd, Ramona.

Oceanside.

Annual Writer’s Symposium FLOOD RELIEF FUNDS by the Sea, Writing That Inspires. $10-$50, 7-8:30 p.m.

Join us for a fun night Feb. 20 at the Crill Perforof fundraising to support mance Hall, Point Loma the San Diego Made Factory FOGHAT Catch classic rock group Nazarene University, 3900 and our community members affected by the recent floods. Free, 5 to 9 p.m. Feb. 17 at Bread & Salt Art Gallery, 1955 Julian Ave, San Diego.

FEB. 22

FEB. 20

FEB. 17

FEB. 21

HISTORIC TOUR

Follow guides for an informative look at the history and architectural designs of the Escondido Public Library and its neighboring homes and buildings. 6-7 p.m. Feb. 22 at Escondido Public Library, 239 S Kalmia St, Escondido.

YAPPY HOUR

L’Auberge Del Mar is hosting a Yappy Hour to showcase adoptable dogs from The Animal Pad Dog Rescue. 4 p.m. at L’Auberge, 1540 Camino del Mar, Del Mar. MUSIC BINGO

Join us for bingo night TURN TO EVENTS ON 15

Home Buying is a

Journey

FEB. 18

Celebrate

TIAN YING

Join us for an unforgettable piano recital. Tian Ying, an accomplished pianist, is known for his eloquent, poetic and dramatically intense performances.

Free-$5, 7-9 p.m. Feb. 17 at California State University San Marcos, Arts Building 111, 333 S Twin Oaks Valley Rd, San Marcos.

DNA INTEREST GROUP

The DNA Interest Group, sponsored by North San Diego County Genealogical Society, will present renowned genetic genealogist Kitty Cooper on “What is ISOGG and How to Use its WIKI” at 1 p.m. at Georgina Cole Library, 1250 Carlsbad Village Dr, Carlsbad.

‘PETER AND THE WOLF’

Two ballets in one fam-

St. Patrick’s Day

with Silvergate San Marcos Thursday, March 14th, 2024, 2:30 PM • Bag Pipe Processional • Traditional Irish Line Dancing • Highland Way Irish Band • Complimentary Traditional Irish Cuisine • Keepsake Photos • Raffle Prizes • Goodie Bags • More!

This special event is open to seniors and families who are interested in experiencing first-hand one of the many engaging events a Silvergate senior living lifestyle offers.

Find The Path That’s Best For You Right now, the Buyer’s journey to a new home is full of obstacles. Having a great guide, one that can help the process go faster, smoother and less expensive, is the best investment you can make.

AddressNorthCounty.com

will connect you with the best in the marketplace RSVP Required Call David Nelson at (760) 744-4484 or email at dnelson@americarehr.com

DON’T BE AFRAID TO TAKE THE EASY WAY

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 16, 2024

628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803 CUSTOMER SERVICE: 800-708-7311 EXT. 257 TRIVIA TEST #12345_20240212 FOR RELEASE FEBRUARY 12, 2024

By Fifi Rodriguez

KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE, FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLYFROM SERVICE, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803

628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803

CUSTOMER SERVICE: 800-708-7311 EXT. 257

TRIVIAEXT. TEST #12345_20240212 CUSTOMER SERVICE: 800-708-7311 257

TRIVIA TEST #12345_20240212

FOR RELEASE FEBRUARY 12, 2024

By Fifi Rodriguez

FOR RELEASE FEBRUARY 12, 2024

By Fifi Rodriguez

1. TELEVISION: Which popular 1. TELEVISION: Which popular Netflix series features groups of teens Netflixnicknamed series features “Kooks” andgroups “Pogues”?of teens 2. HISTORY: When did“Pogues”?

Facebook nicknamed “Kooks” and launch?

2. HISTORY: When 3. MUSIC: Which pop did musicFacebook singlaunch?er had hits with songs like “Changes” and “Let’s Dance”?

3. MUSIC: Which pop 4. GEOGRAPHY: What music country singthe Isle of Wight? er had possesses hits with songs like “Changes” 5. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a and “Let’s groupDance”? of peacocks called?

6. AD SLOGANS: Which 4. GEOGRAPHY: Whatcompacountry ny’s advertising slogan is “the ultimate possesses themachine”?

Isle of Wight? driving 7. LANGUAGE: What is the What Latin is a 5. ANIMAL KINGDOM: phrase often shortened to “i.e.”? group of called?

8.peacocks MYTHOLOGY: What is the name of the maze that confined the Mino6. AD SLOGANS: Which compataur? ny’s advertising is “the 9. MOVIES:slogan Which movie has ultimate the “Mischief. Mayhem. Soap.”? drivingtagline, machine”?

10. LITERATURE: Shakespeare is 7. LANGUAGE: What is the Latin believed to have written approximatehow many plays? phrase lyoften shortened to “i.e.”?

Answers 8. MYTHOLOGY: What is the name 1. “Outerthat Banks.” of the maze confined the Mino2. 2004. taur? 3. David Bowie.

4. England. Which movie has the 9. MOVIES: 5. An ostentation or a pride. tagline, 6.“Mischief.

Mayhem. Soap.”?

BMW. 7. Id est (that is).

10. LITERATURE: Shakespeare is 8. The Labyrinth. believed9.to have written approximate“Fight Club.”

10. 37. plays? ly how many © 2024 King Features Synd., Inc. Answers 1. “Outer Banks.”

2. 2004.

3. David Bowie.

4. England.

5. An ostentation or a pride.

6. BMW. 7. Id est (that is).

8. The Labyrinth.

9. “Fight Club.”

10. 37.

© 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

1. TELEVISION: Which popular Netflix series features groups of teens nicknamed “Kooks” and “Pogues”?

2. HISTORY: When did Facebook launch?

3. MUSIC: Which pop music singer had hits with songs like “Changes” and “Let’s Dance”?

4. GEOGRAPHY: What country possesses the Isle of Wight?

5. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a group of peacocks called?

6. AD SLOGANS: Which company’s advertising slogan is “the ultimate driving machine”?

7. LANGUAGE: What is the Latin phrase often shortened to “i.e.”?

8. MYTHOLOGY: What is the name of the maze that confined the Minotaur?

9. MOVIES: Which movie has the tagline, “Mischief. Mayhem. Soap.”?

10. LITERATURE: Shakespeare is believed to have written approximately how many plays?

Answers 1. “Outer Banks.”

2. 2004.

3. David Bowie.

4. England.

5. An ostentation or a pride.

6. BMW. 7. Id est (that is).

8. The Labyrinth.

9. “Fight Club.”

10. 37. © 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE,

1. TELEVISION: Which popular Netflix series features groups of teens nicknamed “Kooks” and “Pogues”?

2. HISTORY: When did Facebook launch?

3. MUSIC: Which pop music singer had hits with songs like “Changes” and “Let’s Dance”?

4. GEOGRAPHY: What country possesses the Isle of Wight?

5. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a group of peacocks called?

6. AD SLOGANS: Which company’s advertising slogan is “the ultimate driving machine”?

7. LANGUAGE: What is the Latin phrase often shortened to “i.e.”?

8. MYTHOLOGY: What is the name of the maze that confined the Minotaur?

9. MOVIES: Which movie has the tagline, “Mischief. Mayhem. Soap.”?

10. LITERATURE: Shakespeare is believed to have written approximately how many plays?

Answers 1. “Outer Banks.”

2. 2004.

3. David Bowie.

4. England.

5. An ostentation or a pride.

6. BMW. 7. Id est (that is).

8. The Labyrinth.

9. “Fight Club.”

10. 37.

14

© 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

15

T he C oast News - I nland E dition

Feb. 16, 2024

O’side Film Festival back for 13th year

By Samantha Nelson

OCEANSIDE — The Oceanside International Film Festival returns next week for its 13th year at the historic Sunshine Brooks Theater downtown, with the opening night featuring a conversation with film composer and musician Jason Hill.

The boutique film festival will screen 41 individual films from an impressive roster of local and international independent filmmakers, allowing attendees to view exclusive cinema in various genres. And the event’s popularity is growing.

“We had a record number of submissions this year,” said Carly Starr Brullo-Niles, the festival’s creative director and co-director of programming.

Running Feb. 20-24, the festival will feature a week stacked with film screenings and question-and-answer panel discussions with the filmmakers.

Opening night​will include a red carpet rollout at the Oceanside Museum of Art and an intimate discussion with Hill, a songwriter who composed music for David Fincher’s “Gone Girl,”

KEVIN WACZEK of Escondido (“Lockdown”) is among the local filmmakers whose work will be shown. Courtesy photo

“Mind Hunter,” and “Videosyncrasy,” among other projects. The one-on-one with Hill, who is also the frontman of San Diego-based punk band Louis XIV, will offer guests a behind-thescenes look at his work to better understand the industry.

Following the red carpet, a slate of films will be shown at the Brooks Theater over several days. Filmmakers will come from as far away as South Korea to watch their work debut in Oceanside.

“It’s an amazing honor to see the world’s unique perspectives in the films,” Brullo-Niles said.

Many local filmmakers from North County will also be there.

“One of the most amazing films we will have is from Encinitas called ‘Forget Me Again,’” Brullo-Niles said.

“It’s one of the most suspenseful, too.”

According to the film’s synopsis, after being introduced to a new pharmaceutical pill that allows for controlled memory loss, a young addict must untangle a web of forgotten memories to find his missing friend.

Some of the highlighted movies include “The Buildout” by Zeshaan Younus of Anaheim, “Hemet, or The Landlady Don’t Drink Tea”

wake without homelessness exit resources.

He also felt that the county did not communicate its intentions with the study to the city ahead of time.

“It’s appalling that they didn’t tell us about this,” White said, noting he traveled to the Feb. 6 supervisor meeting last minute to share his grievances about the proposal. “It’s very frustrating to say the least.”

Instead, the mayor suggested the county consider some surplus city-owned property for a new permanent shelter instead, one that would prioritize Escondido’s homeless for beds first.

The mayor along with Councilmember Joe Garcia have been working together with staff on identifying potential policy changes and shelter options as part of a homelessness subcommittee the two formed last year,

including identifying which city-owned sites would best suit a homeless shelter.

White noted that staff has not yet finalized the list of potential sites but should have it done by the end of February or early March, after which the City Council would discuss along with other policy changes to address homelessness.

If the county were to work with the city on creating a permanent shelter on city-owned land, White’s biggest stipulation is that the shelter would prioritize Escondido’s homeless population.

“I’m not going to do anything that doesn’t prioritize those that are here now,” White said. “We have the highest concentrations of homeless in the county and it’s not getting any better.”

According to San Diego County’s Point-in-Time Homeless Count, Escondido’s unsheltered population grew by 67% between 2022 and 2023.

Some groups like the

Lucky Duck Foundation, a nonprofit that funds homeless resource projects throughout the San Diego region, have been critical of the mayor’s opposition to the 620 East Valley site.

“The mayor wants a city-run shelter that’s somehow limited to those who lived in Escondido before they lost housing,” said Lucky Duck Communications Director Brian Hayes via email. “Mayor White says that accepting county help will force Escondido to accept the needy from surrounding cities. He’s wrong on this – the Board of Supervisors hasn’t even made the land available or asked for proposals, let alone decided who gets into the resulting housing.”

Hayes goes on to say it is still too early to tell if the county will agree to provide its property and funding.

“We sincerely hope Mayor White changes his mind about opposing assistance before it’s even offered,” he said.

EVENTS

Beach.

p.m. Feb. 23 at Point Loma Nazarene University, 3900 Lomaland Dr, San Diego.

HOMELESS

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every Thursday from 7-9 p.m. Prizes, drink specials and more. 7 to 9 p.m. Feb. 22 at Pina , 345 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas.

CATHOLIC WIDOWS

We love to get together to share our love for food, drink and company. Why not join us for a delicious lunch. 11:30 a.m. at Tommy V’s Urban Kitchen, 2659 Gateway Rd, Carlsbad.

FEB. 23

PINE MOUNTAIN LOGS

Watch the Pine Mountain Logs live at the Belly Up. $25, 9 p.m. at Belly Up, 143 S Cedros Ave, Solana

‘A SPANISH SERENADE’

The Encinitas Guitar Orchestra’s Chamber Ensemble are set to perform “A Spanish Serenade” concert. Students will perform works composed by Francisco Tarrega, Enrique Granados and Isaac Albeniz. Free, with a suggested donation of $20 at the door. 7:30 p.m. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 925 Balour Dr, Encinitas.

N. HORNBY & S. ORLEAN

Interview with award-winning authors Nick Hornby and Susan Orlean as part of the 29th Annual Writer’s Symposium by the Sea, Writing That Inspires. $10-$66, 7-8:30

by Tony Olmos of Ramona, “Tasmania” by Austin Alward, “Those Were the Good Days” by Hong-Rae Lee of South Korea, and “To Fall in Love” by Michael Foster of North Hollywood.

Other locally made movies include: “Lockdown” by Kevin Waczek from Escondido; “And Yet They Speak”

by Windy Marshall from Carlsbad; “Amazing Grace”

by Aiden Keltner from San Diego, and “The Mad Doctor of the Intercontinental Hotel” by Michael Shane Bowels from Oceanside.

Many of the films haven’t even been released in other theaters yet.

“This is the first time many people will get to see these films,” she said.

The Soroptimist International Oceanside-Carlsbad nonprofit sponsors Saturday’s film block as its annual Women’s Film Festival event, focusing on women-related writers, directors and topics. That same evening, the film festival’s awards ceremony will announce the winning films and filmmakers of the weeklong event.

For schedule and tickets, visit osidefilm.org.

White said he is tired of the city contributing resources to projects that don’t prioritize Escondido’s homeless population in the city.

“We can’t keep chasing solutions that don’t prioritize this city,” he said.

White noted that other ways the city could pay for a new homeless shelter beyond county funding – and given its current structural budget deficit – is by either legalizing recreational cannabis businesses in the city or approving a one-cent sales tax initiative currently being petitioned by local public safety and business groups.

The mayor intends to form a cannabis subcommittee soon that would determine what language would go on the ballot that allows for recreational cannabis sales while the City Council would give its final approval to place the item on the ballot.

E-BIKES and bicycles are parked at Earl Warren Middle School in Solana Beach last week. Photo by Laura Place

E-BIKE

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state level.

“I believe it is imperative that we seriously consider safety measures that can be implemented statewide,” said Del Mar Mayor Dave Druker.

San Dieguito Union High School District board president Rimga Viskanta described how she frequently drives by a memorial in Encinitas for 15-year-old Brodee Champlain Kingman, who was struck and killed while riding an e-bike last year.

After his death, the district began requiring students to complete bike safety training to ride an e-bike at school. However, nothing requires students

to demonstrate that they understand bike safety laws.

“It still is not enough.

We really need all hands on deck with this e-bike safety situation,” Viskanta said.

Boerner said equity will be a large focus of the bill. Those who violate e-bike rules will be diverted to bike traffic school and community service rather than face fines.

“With this bill, I hope to address this gap in education for young riders and keep the next generation of Californians safe on the road,” Boerner said.

The bill will now go to the Rules Committee, which will likely be transferred to the Assembly Transportation Committee for review.

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City News Service contributed to this report.

Why Spend Hours In The ER For URGENT Matters?

‘N’

“N,” a thought provoking comedy by award winning playwright David Alex that changes what you think about being a liberal or a conservative. $18-$22, runs from Feb. 23 to March 10 at Point Loma Playhouse, 3035 Talbot St, San Diego.

FUN ANIMAL FRIDAY

Join us onsite for Fun Animal Friday with San Diego House Rabbit Society on Feb. 23 from 1011:30 a.m. at San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum, 320 N Broadway, Escondido.

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