Inland Edition, June 21, 2024

San Marcos school’s cuts stun families

By Laura Place SAN MARCOS —

Families at Baypoint Preparatory Academy in San Marcos are reeling after learning the small charter school laid off seven of its teachers last week, raising questions about the school’s future and the administration’s treatment of staff.

Frank Ogwaro, founder and CEO of the K-8 school of around 200 students, confirmed that the school had issued layoff notices to seven teachers earlier this month and that one other teacher was choosing not to return, with four of the school’s previous teachers being retained.

However, the number of staff no longer working at the school is a topic of contention. The school’s website lists 10 teachers and five academic coaches, and community members have stated that one other individual was laid off and others have since quit. The Coast News has reached out to the school for clarification.

Ogwaro said teachers were not laid off because of their performance but to ensure that the school’s direction was aligned with “what we promised the community in our charter petition.”

“Unfortunately, it’s a very difficult decision to have even one teacher change because there’s a strong bond amongst the community and the students. However, we have to assess the academic achievements of these students and whether their academic needs are being met,” Ogwaro said.

Teachers at the K-8 school reportedly received layoff notices during the first weekend in June. A group of these teachers provided a joint statement to The Coast News about the dismissal, asking to remain anonymous out of fear of retaliation from Baypoint as they search

RUSH THE QB

VUSD breaks ground on Bobier rebuild

By Laura Place

VISTA — Students and teachers from Bobier Elementary said goodbye to their old campus last week and celebrated the start of construction on their brand-new school.

The approximately $74.5 million rebuild is expected to take two years, and is the largest project funded by the Vista Unified School District’s Measure LL bond passed in 2018.

Plans for the new campus include a modern, two-story building with over 84,000 square feet of indoor space and 10,000 square feet of covered courtyard space. Crews will construct 32 classrooms for 650 students,

Cannabis support

adaptable learning spaces, a library/STEAM lab, a synthetic playfield, new parking lots and solar arrays with battery backup.

During the Bobier rebuild, the school’s approximately 500 students will be relocated to the Beaumont Elementary School campus, which ceased operations at the end of the school year along with Rancho Minerva Middle School.

At a groundbreaking ceremony on June 12, Bobier Principal Melanie Paliotti said the families and staff had made amazing memories at the old campus and that the new site would allow children

A survey of Escondido residents finds backing for a cannabis business meaure and a 1-cent sales tax if they’re on the ballot. 3

A one-year NCTD pilot program allows residents to book on-demand microtransit service within a roughly 10-mile zone of the city. 8

El Dorado rift reaches AG’s Office

City has ignored lease breaches, residents say

By Laura Place

SAN MARCOS — Mobile home park residents say the city has failed to address the park owner’s multiple and ongoing lease violations and are asking the state Attorney General’s Office to intervene.

The Capalina Mobile Home Owners Association, representing residents of El Dorado Park located on Capalina Road, filed a complaint against San Marcos with the AG’s Office on May 22. The 93-space park is a 55+ community that houses several low-income residents.

Residents said park owner Kleege Enterprises has violated multiple areas of the long-term lease, the greatest of which is the incorrect calculation of turnover rents, or the new rent amounts that are applied after a mobile home in the park is sold.

Despite raising concerns with the city multiple times over the past two years, including 11 meetings between HOA representatives and city officials, the HOA said neither City Attorney Helen Holmes Peak nor the City Council have acted to enforce the regulations.

“The Park Owner consistently overcharged and completely violated the terms and formula to increase that rent,” the complaint states. “The City of San Marcos has constantly refused to use their authority as defined in the Regulatory Agreement and Long-Term Space Lease to enforce compliance.”

El Dorado is unique among the 18 manufactured home parks in San Marcos as the only park with a long-term lease agreement that exempts them from typical rent review and rent control protections.

The city of San Marcos pursued these long-term leases for its parks back in 2015 to cut down on costly legal battles regarding lease disputes. All of the city’s parks rejected the proposed lease, except El Dorado, whose residents accepted implementing the 15-year lease.

The transition to the new lease TURN TO EL DORADO ON 5

CHARGERS QUARTERBACK Justin Herbert signs autographs on June 11 at Camp Pendleton. In a return to a 30-year tradition that began when the team was in San Diego but was halted during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chargers held a scrimmage and meet-and-greet to kick off their minicamp. Courtesy photo/LA Chargers

San Marcos test run

BOBIER ELEMENTARY School Principal Melanie Paliotti, 5th-grader Magali Monico Elena and 4th-grader Alejandro Morales Mejia participated in the June 12 groundbreaking ceremony for the new campus. Photo by Laura Place

4TH OF JULY SALE

City must find new revenue sources

By Laura Place

SAN

MARCOS

— The San Marcos City Council approved a barely balanced 2024-25 budget on June 11, avoiding the use of city reserves by making minor spending cuts across most departments as the need for new revenue streams reaches glaring levels.

With revenues falling behind increasing operational costs, concerns are growing about an eventual decrease in service levels impacting residents’ quality of life. On July 9, the City Council is set to discuss a potential sales tax measure to go on the November ballot as a means of increasing cash flow and maintaining current service levels.

Like many cities, San Marcos has been facing budget issues for several years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and general inflation. Last year, the city had to dip into reserves to close a $3.8 million budget gap.

City Manager Michelle Bender said in this year’s budget, cuts can be felt throughout most departments besides public safety and parks and recreation. Otherwise, the city has frozen positions, cut back staffing, “held the line” on compensation, and reduced service contracts in areas like landscaping and street sweeping.

“Very little is untouched,” said Bender. “Most contracts within the city have been looked at and reduced, some more significantly than others… The strategy has been to try to cut back where the impact isn’t going to be immediately felt by the public.”

Bender said that department heads are still unable to fill vacant roles without city manager approval due to tight budgets. The city has also found slight cost savings by bringing some services in-house, such as ballpark maintenance and street sweeping.

A key element of the city closing the budget gap was $1.3 million in “onetime” funds, including ex-

cess reserves from real estate partnership funds and Public Agencies Self Insurance System (PASIS) funds.

By not using reserves, San Marcos retained unassigned reserves at 41%, staying above the 41% minimum.

The main sources of the city’s $93.4 million projected revenue in 2024-25 include property tax at 35%, sales tax — which is projected to remain stagnant — at 24%, and charges for services at 14%.

Law enforcement and fire services combined make up over half of the city’s projected expenditures, with public works making up 14%, internal and department services each at about 10%, parks and recreation at 6%, and administration at 3%.

City staff said the city has limited revenue-raising options outside of a sales tax or other voter measures.

Members of the city’s Budget Review Committee, the San Marcos Fire Department and several residents have urged the city to put the question of a sales tax before voters.

If a sales tax is not advanced to the ballot or passed by voters, Bender said the city will likely face further cuts that will be felt

more sharply by the public.

“It’s going to be a very challenging conversation if we don’t get additional revenue,” Bender said. “What happens between now and November would change everything.”

Council members thanked staff for all their hard work, recognizing that burnout is inevitable among a lean staff taking on multiple responsibilities.

“It is an incredible achievement that we’re sitting here tonight passing a balanced budget without tapping into reserves. How that was done, it’s a bit of a miracle, in my opinion,” said Councilmember Mike Sannella.

Capital projects

San Marcos operates under a 5-year, $238 million capital improvement project (CIP) program through 2026. CIP budget appropriations for the 2024-25 year are $16.5 million for 54 ongoing and new projects.

Highlighted major projects include the San Marcos Boulevard reconstruction project, which features repairs and new signals between Bent Avenue and Rancho Santa Fe Road, and pavement restoration along Rancho Santa Fe from Lake Ridge to Mel-

rose.

Mayor Rebecca Jones said she is looking forward to Rancho Santa Fe’s completion, but residents must be patient during the construction phase, which will begin this summer.

“It’s going to be amazing when it’s done, but in the meantime, it’s going to be extremely painful,” Jones said.

The main funding sources for the CIP budget are the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account, which provides 38%, TransNet at 23% and the gas tax at 19%.

Staff also highlighted completed projects, including the Bradley Park BMX pump track, which opened on June 24, the traffic management center, the Discovery Street pedestrian extension and the Conners Park turf project. Staff said the final phases of the San Marcos Creek project — creek infrastructure and Paseo de Arroyo Park — are also nearing completion.

San Marcos is also facing several unfunded infrastructure needs in the near future, such as the creation of Fire Station 5 to meet growing service needs, with the city’s Infrastructure Fund projected to be depleted by the 2026 fiscal year, staff said.

Other highlighted projects for this year include:

• The city’s annual streets program, with annual appropriations to be increased from $2 million to $4 million

• Fire Station 3 renovations, including the construction of an auxiliary storage building

• Repairs to Discovery Lake Bridge

• Pedestrian lighting along Mission Avenue

• Restoration of the historic Pink House

• San Marcos Senior Center HVAC project

• City floodplain analysis

• La Mirada and Rancho Santa Fe storm drains

• Creek Specific Plan amendments.

Survey: Esco voters back sales tax, cannabis

By Samantha Nelson ESCONDIDO —

At least 57% of voters would be OK with regulated cannabis businesses, including dispensaries operating within the city, according to results from a community survey conducted earlier this spring.

The Newport Beachbased Probolsky Research firm conducted a weeklong live interview telephone and online survey among 400 likely Escondido voters in April. The survey asked voters questions to gauge interest in a sales tax increase, a cannabis business tax initiative, top priorities and satisfaction with city services.

According to Adam Probolsky, president of the research firm, the number of voters asked in the survey is typical of the size of a city like Escondido and the time it took to conduct the survey.

The survey found that 61% of respondents favored a cannabis business measure allowing commercial adult-use cannabis retailing, cultivation and processing in the city. The proposal in the survey said the measure would also levy a 7% tax on gross receipts of legal cannabis businesses to provide an estimated $1 million annually to help fund municipal services.

While Probolsky estimated that the number would decrease slightly to 57% with more informed voters, he acknowledged the survey participants’ significant approval of legalized cannabis storefronts.

“This is a decent-sized majority,” Probolsky said.

Mayor Dane White proposed a 12- to 18-month work plan to implement

Nonprofit pitches Green Oak alliance

By Laura Place VISTA

— Homelessness nonprofit Solutions for Change has proposed a partnership with the City of Vista regarding joint use of the Green Oak Ranch property in exchange for the city ceasing its own pursuit of the land.

The proposal is the nonprofit’s latest step to try to secure its bid for the 110-acre property since they entered discussions with the owners of Green Oak Ranch last year.

The County of San Diego is also bidding on the property to develop a $280 million sober living and behavioral health facility, and the Vista City Council has also expressed interest in acquiring the land, announcing on May 28 that they would conduct an appraisal of the site.

In a June 6 letter to city officials, Solutions for Change CEO Chris Megison requested that the city support the nonprofit’s proposal for Green Oak Ranch. In exchange, Solutions would lease 50 acres of land to the city, which could potentially purchase the land from the nonprofit in the future.

“Our proposal entails your support for Solutions for Change to acquire the ranch, with the provision of gifting approximately fifty acres to the City of Vista for various community purposes, such as ballfields, open space preservation, and parkland,” Megison said in the letter.

“This arrangement holds the potential for significant positive outcomes for the city, our neighbors, and the most vulnerable members of our community – families grappling with housing insecurity, child welfare issues, and serious health challenges.”

Megison emphasized Solutions’ “shared opposition” to the county’s plan with the city and its residents and said they want to safeguard against negative impacts from the planned “county-run mega homeless hub.”

In comparison, Megison said, Solutions would use the ranch to expand its Solutions Academy for families experiencing homelessness, specifically for additional housing and workforce development training, while also maintaining crucial

Vista Mayor John Franklin said the city will consider the proposal.

“Solutions for Change is homegrown in Vista with a 25-year history. Solutions is different because they focus on recovery of the whole person and long-term independence. I am optimistic about early discussions between Solutions and the city exploring meaningful partnership opportunities,” Franklin said.

Around 110 acres of the 142-acre ranch were put up for sale almost a year after the passing of the land’s former owner, Arie de Jong, last April. The parcel currently houses a popular summer camp and retreat center, an RV park, and a residential men’s recovery program operated by Green Oak Ranch Ministries.

When the land is sold, the ministry will lose 85% of its funding for the recovery and sober living program. However, it will continue to operate on another part of the ranch.

Many residents living near Green Oak Ranch have expressed concerns about the county’s plan, particularly the idea of individuals undergoing treatment for behavioral health and addiction in a residential area.

County officials have emphasized that the proposed facility would offer long-term care and recovery resources that the county currently lacks, as well as substantial staffing and security.

While the Green Oak board has yet to choose a bidder for the land, Solutions for Change considers itself a frontrunner. Megison said both parties signed a letter of intent in February, and Solutions signed lease and purchase documents at the end of May for a negotiated longterm lease with an option to purchase the property.

In the meantime, he hopes Vista leaders will support Solutions and accept their offer to lease 50 acres for $1 per year.

“Really, its an attempt to do something collaborative with the city. They don’t have to buy it, and they’ll get free land. We think that’s a pretty compelling offering,” Megison said.

open space.

CHRIS MEGISON, founder of nonprofit Solutions for Change, has proposed a partnership with the city of Vista to acquire the Green Oak Ranch parcel. Megison believes the nonprofit is the frontrunner to purchase the property. File photo

THE CITY’S public works employees repaint road markings. In July, the City Council will discuss placing a sales tax measure on the November ballot. Courtesy photo/City of San Marcos

The CoasT News

Opinion & Editorial

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CONTACT THE EDITOR jordan@coastnewsgroup.com

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WRITERS/COLUMNISTS

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A moment to savor

By Teresa Acosta

After the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in 2015, the White House lit up in the bright colors of the LGBTQ rainbow flag. Noting the powerful symbolism of progress towards equality, President Barack Obama called it a “moment worth savoring.”

Throughout this June, the City of Carlsbad is flying the pride flag to honor LGBTQ Pride Month. Flying the flag is a way to show we embrace equality and respect all members of our community.

In Carlsbad — no matter who you are or who you love — you are safe, you belong, and you are valued. But this year, flying the flag in Carlsbad has special significance. It makes clear we reject recent attempts by extreme, fringe groups to turn back the clock on LGBTQ acceptance and equality.

Just last year, in 2023, when the pride flag was on the City Council agenda, anti-LGBTQ hostility reached an alarming level. Speakers at Council meetings spewed

old, bigoted stereotypes and mocked LGBTQ youth for whom the flag was an important symbol of acceptance.

As it often does, the hateful, hurtful rhetoric spread. It was suggested we fly the Confederate flag and the Nazi flag in addition to the pride flag. A local school district succumbed to the pressure and refused to fly the pride flag, sparking division in our schools and anxiety among LGBTQ students and their parents.

On the Carlsbad City Council, we chose not to give in to intolerance and exclusion. I stood with a majority of the City Council to support the LGBTQ community and the vast majority of our residents, and I voted to fly the rainbow flag during Pride month. While our decision prevailed, it was troubling how close that vote was — 3-2.

Carlsbad is not alone. Anti-LGBTQ extremism is on the rise across America. Some 500 anti-LGBTQ bills were introduced in state legislatures last year — nearly triple the year before.

Harassment and assault against the LGBTQ community are up, too.

My Mexican-American family taught me to love and support the incredible diversity in our country. As an elected leader in Carlsbad, and as the first Latina on our City Council, I am committed to ensuring diverse voices here are included and respected.

That is why this year’s Pride month in Carlsbad is so meaningful. We raised the pride flag when June kicked off, knowing full well there are still those who want to unwind equality and acceptance. And last week, I gladly read our City’s official proclamation declaring Pride month in our city, and while a fringe few still sadly criticized, we weren’t deterred or derailed.

This time around, Carlsbad’s embrace of LGBTQ equality was never in doubt at all. It’s definitely a moment to savor.

Councilwoman Teresa Acosta represents District 4 on the Carlsbad City Council.

The State of North County

By Jim Desmond

Last week, we held our State of the North County event, and it was great to see so many people who make our region unique.

For those who couldn’t attend, I’d like to share the key points from my address, which outlined our shared vision for a prosperous and thriving North County. This vision isn’t just an aspiration; it’s a collective mission that requires each of us to contribute our unique talents. Together, we are a powerful force for positive change.

Here are some highlights from the address:

Agriculture: San Diego County agriculture provides over 16,000 jobs, with an annual economic impact of nearly $3 billion.

Tourism and Hospitality: Our tourism sector is up 15%, featuring top-rated hotels, surfing and sports competitions, and exceptional restaurants.

Education: We boast excellent school districts, Cal State University San Marcos, Mira Costa College, Palomar College, and numerous private and trade schools.

Infrastructure: We’re increasing our road allocation by $4.5 million to maintain 2,000 miles of roadways. We recently broke ground on the 7-acre Village View Park in Fallbrook and acquired 900 acres in Valley Center, known as Rancho Lilac, for extensive horse and hiking trails. Despite our strengths, we face critical issues:

Homelessness and Behavioral Health: Addressing homelessness demands a collective effort with clear standards for North County. Our programs must include sober living, mandatory drug testing, and counseling.

Border Security: We must secure our border.

Since September, San Diego County has experienced over

Almost no one wants office buildings these days, either to build them or buy them.

In downtown San Francisco, the April sale of an empty 16-story office structure on lower Market Street brought just $6.5 million, less than the price paid for hundreds of California single-family homes last year.

That was 90% below the $65 million price the same building brought in 2016, the last time it changed owners.

In the Arts District of Los Angeles, a fast-developing trendy area just east of downtown, plans to build a 10-story office structure containing many “creative spaces” were canceled a month later by New York real estate developer Tishman Speyer.

It’s the same all over the country, from Memphis to Maryland, from Manhattan to Market Street, where the commercial real estate firm CBRE the other day issued a preliminary report showing office vacancies in San Francisco at 36.6%, up about 1% from the proportion of empty office space at the end of last year.

The vacancy rates are not quite so high in cities like Fresno and San Diego. Yet.

But empty or mostly vacant properties nevertheless abound all over California and the nation.

Not even real estate investment trusts (REITs) want to buy office towers anymore, with many trying to unload their current stock.

to profit from buildings they are stuck with.

So an office building conversion movement — originally predicted in early 2020 by this column — is getting underway.

But it’s not yet going fast enough.

Billions of square feet of office space now lie fallow and could be converted to apartments and condominiums of many sizes and shapes. There can be lowpriced units on the lower floors where street noises are common and highpriced penthouses far above them, free of most city noise pollution and enjoying sweeping views.

But so far, only hundreds of thousands of square feet have been converted, leaving the vast majority of vacant space unused while housing construction lags far behind the millions of square feet state authorities say is needed.

151,000 street releases. This isn’t just a local safety issue; it’s a national concern. San Diego leads the nation in border encounters. This crisis stems from the Federal government’s failings.

Government and Regulation: Government should be an ally, providing the infrastructure necessary for people to achieve their full potential. However, excessive regulations are driving up housing costs and stifling growth. It’s time to reduce these regulatory burdens and pave the way for more affordable housing. If we want North County to thrive, we must work together. Let’s create an environment where our residents can thrive and build their futures here in California and San Diego County.

Supervisor Jim Desmond represents District 5 on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors

It’s all because of the stay-home orders issued at the start of the coronavirus pandemic, which sent millions of white-collar workers to new work spaces in their homes and allowed hundreds of thousands to move to less expensive quarters far from city centers where they formerly had to pay high rents because their presence was required in offices.

When some employers early this year began requiring that workers return to offices at least part time, a wave of resignations ensued.

It turns out workers enjoy being at home, away from the prying eyes and frequent demands of their bosses. This has also spurred new fluidity in the job market.

That all creates huge financial pressure for converting a major share of current office space into residential units.

If REITs can’t collect rents on their properties, but still must make payments for them to banks and other lenders, they need to find another way

After dragging their feet on this for several years, Gov. Gavin Newsom and California legislators last year passed a measure easing the path toward building permits to convert office towers. The same for abandoned big box stores and their large parking lots. Still, only about 5,200 dwelling units were created via conversions last year in Los Angeles, and one-eighth as many in San Francisco.

The numbers were even smaller in places like Sacramento and Oakland.

But this is a movement that is both morally and financially necessary. Market-rate apartments in a converted office building ought to sell for far less than units in a newly constructed tower.

That’s because building and land acquisition costs are far lower for conversions than new structures.

Plus, there are fewer legal challenges for conversions, which do not much change the profile and environmental effects of existing buildings.

So expect a boom in conversions soon, with numbers multiplying by at least 10 over the next five years. It’s what California needs and whatever this state needs, its people have generally created over more than 170 years of statehood. Email Thomas Elias

INTERNS

Samantha Mason

Fiona Bork

County’s public health officer retires

By City News Service

REGION — Dr. Wilma Wooten, San Diego County’s public health officer and the face of the county’s COVID-19 response, announced her retirement this week following 23 years of service.

Of that time, 17 years were spent as the county’s lead doctor.

In May, Wooten was honored by the California Department of Public Health with its highest recognition — the Beverlee A. Myers Award for Excellence in Public Health.

Wooten was at the forefront of San Diego County’s response to the coronavirus pandemic, appearing multiple times a week in front of media and the public, providing updates on the spread of cases and best prevention measures.

In that role she was often the target of harsh criticism from members of the public who disagreed with the county’s COVID response. She said part of being a public official was working with those who disagree with you.

“Make sure to socialize what you think is a ‘great idea’ with those you think are supportive, as well as with those reluctant, opposed or impacted by your important policy, practice, or program,’’ Wooten said. “And don’t agonize over things that you cannot change.’’

Wooten joined the county in 2001 and was named public health officer in 2007.

County gas prices continue to drop

By City News Service

REGION — The average price of a gallon of selfserve regular gasoline in San Diego County dropped Wednesday for the 36th time in the last 37 days, decreasing two-tenths of a cent to $4.824.

The average price has dropped 44.5 cents over the past 37 days, including nine-tenths of a cent Tuesday, according to figures from the AAA and Oil Price Information Service.

It is 5 cents less than one week ago, 37.3 cents less than one month ago and 8.2 cents less than one year ago. It has dropped $1.571 since rising to a record $6.435 on Oct. 5, 2022.

The national average price dropped nine-tenths of a cent to $3.449, a day after it decreased seven-tenths of a cent.

It is nine-tenths of a cent less than one week ago, 14.2 cents less than one month ago, 12.9 cents less than one year ago, and has dropped $1.585 since rising to a record $5.016 on June 14, 2022.

EL DORADO

CONTINUED FROM FRONT

went fairly smoothly under the park’s former owner, Carlsbad Shores, LLC, but issues arose after El Dorado was sold to Kleege Enterprises for $11.5 million in 2019.

Under Kleege, residents said management has been much less responsive, the park has fallen into disrepair, and rent costs have increased exponentially with little explanation.

“I’ve seen a lot of changes,” said Ellen Amburgey, HOA treasurer and a 20-year park resident. “We’re paying more in rent and we’re getting fewer services.”

In a June 10 statement, Kleege Enterprises Director of Residential Management George Gregory said they are following the terms of the lease agreement in place in 2015.

“Kleege Capital, Kleege Enterprises has always been and will continue to abide by the terms and conditions of this Accord. As to any criticism of the terms of the Accord by the residents, Kleege Capital has been and will remain cooperative with any requests made by the City to confirm its compliance with the Accord. Kleege Capital, Kleege Enterprises remains committed to providing desirable, affordable housing in San Marcos and to its valued residents,” Gregory said.

A representative from the AG’s Office said they are unable to comment on complaints received to protect the integrity of investigations.

Turnover rents

Under the long-term lease accord, the maximum increase in turnover rents for owner-occupied homes being sold cannot exceed the sum of the existing “base rent” plus 20% of the average of the highest three base rents in the park.

to secure information for several months before turning to the city, so we understand their concern and frustration. However, the city is actively working to secure the requested information and resolve any associated issues in conjunction with the residents and the park owner,” Peak said.

Teachers try to add plaintiffs

By City News Service

ESCONDIDO — Attorneys for two Escondido teachers who sued over school district policies governing what information can be shared with parents of transgender and gender-nonconforming students are seeking to have a group of teachers and parents, as well as the Lakeside Union School District as a whole, added as plaintiffs to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit initially filed on behalf of Rincon Middle School teachers Elizabeth Mirabelli and Lori Ann West sought to block enforcement of Escondido Union School District policies requiring them to use pronouns or gender-specific names requested by students, while keeping that information private from others, including the students’ parents.

A federal judge sided with the teachers last fall and issued a preliminary injunction barring the district from enforcing the policies.

In 2022, Kleege repeatedly ignored the HOA when they requested to verify the calculation of these rents, as permitted in the lease.

Park resident John Yobaccio was trying to sell his home at the time but ended up taking it off the market because he couldn’t get any offers.

Kleege had decided that the base rent would increase by around $163, a major increase from the approximately $600 charged before.

“There was always the question of the calculation. We tried to get in for the longest time to look at the rent calculations, and we just kept getting a brick wall,” Yobaccio said. “With everything else, it was hard to sell.”

Park management finally provided information after months of pushing by former City Manager Jack Griffin, who told Kleege in August 2022 that the city would take them into mediation and arbitration if they did not provide the required information to residents.

Frank Petralia, a 10year resident of the park and the HOA’s president, said that since then, they have been trying to get the city to enforce the turnover rent regulations. He said Kleege appears to be willfully violating the lease by using 20% of the three

highest overall rents, rather than the base rent, in their calculations of turnover rent.

However, Petralia said the city has been dragging its feet and has declined to enter into arbitration or mediation with the owner as outlined in the lease.

While they wait for action, residents feel like the city has abandoned them, and rents are rising.

In the spring, HOA members voted to contact the AG’s office.

“We can’t get the city to give us time or energy on this. At this point, we’re frustrated,” he said. “We waited and waited all the way until May, and I said, enough is enough.”

Peak said the city takes residents’ complaints seriously but cannot take any enforcement action while they are still investigating, analyzing and collecting data regarding turnover rents.

However, she said the city has made progress and hopes to meet with HOA representatives to discuss their eventual findings.

She called residents’ decision to file a state complaint “unfortunate.”

“We have been in contact with both the current and previous park owners in an effort to determine if the rents have been correctly calculated,” Peak said. “The residents did attempt

“We hope that once all of the facts are determined, the parties will be able to work through the residents’ concerns and questions. If not, we would expect all parties to abide by the dispute resolution processes contained in the agreements.”

Some residents said the long-term lease agreement is not what they imagined it would be and would prefer to have the rent control protections afforded to other parks.

An amendment to the California Mobilehome Residency Law states that, as of 2025, all long-term leases for mobile home parks will no longer be exempt from local rent control.

However, the city has argued that this law will not apply to El Dorado because, under the ordinance adopted in 2015, the park is expressly exempt from rent control in the city’s municipal code.

“That ordinance amended the rent control provisions of the San Marcos Municipal Code to specifically exclude El Dorado from its terms, due to the desire of both the residents on the one hand and the park owner on the other to be bound by the terms of the agreements rather than the rent control ordinance for the term of that lease,” Peak said. “We did not reach the conclusion lightly, and the City also secured the opinion of special counsel on the issue, who concurred. If and when there is a judicial determination or a legislative change that compels or suggests a different result, we will re-evaluate.”

In a motion filed June 14, Mirabelli and West’s attorneys are seeking to add several new plaintiffs to the lawsuit, including two other EUSD teachers and two sets of parents, all of whom are seeking to be remain anonymous due to “severe harassment and retaliation” levied towards Mirabelli and West, their attorneys say.

The proposed teacher and parent plaintiffs object to EUSD policies “on both religious and moral grounds,” similar to Mirabelli and West, who argued the policy violated their First Amendment rights to free speech and free exercise of religion.

Lakeside Union officials could not immediately be reached for comment, but a statement from the attorneys says the district is seeking “declaratory relief so that it can pass policies that allow for parental notification, without adverse legal action by state officials.”

Other state school districts that require school staff to notify parents of transgender students have been sued by the California Attorney General’s Office and the California Department of Education, among others.

In a statement regarding one such suit filed against the Chino Valley Unified, state Attorney General Rob Bonta said, “By enacting policies that forcibly out students against their own wishes, school districts violate these fundamental protections and risk breaching their obligation to serve these and all students equally.”

Bonta’s statement acknowledged the preliminary injunction in the EUSD case, but stressed that decision did not impact a different judge’s decision to block Chino Unified from implementing its notification policy.

Supporters of privacy policies argue keeping such information private protects students from potential discrimination, abuse and harassment.

A GROUP of El Dorado Park residents in San Marcos are pictured at the park’s clubhouse last week. The El Dorado HOA has filed a complaint with the state Attorney General’s Office regarding the city’s alleged lack of enforcement of the park’s lease. Photo by Laura Place

RESIDENTS OF El Dorado Park in San Marcos have asked the state Attorney General’s Office to compel city officials to enforce the terms of their lease. Courtesy photo/Colliers

WOOTEN

Who’s NEWS?

Business news and special achievements for North San Diego County. Send information via email to community@ coastnewsgroup.com.

COLLEGE GRADUATE

Sydney Washburn of San Marcos graduated from American International College with a doctorate in physical therapy.

PRESIDENT’S LIST

The following students made the spring president’s list at their respective universities: Adyson Baker at Miami University in Ohio, and Kira Abulhosn of San Diego and Charlotte Sears of Carlsbad at the University of Iowa.

DEAN’S LIST

The following students made the spring dean’s list at their respective colleges and universities: Riley Latus of San Marcos at Fort Lewis College in Colorado; Rohan Inamdar and Valerie VanDamme of San Diego at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts; Brady Creasy of Oceanside, Catelyn Blackman of Carlsbad and Cristina Haggerty of San Marcos at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College in Indiana; Lyssa Bowers of Oceanside at

Manchester University in Indiana; Madie Hamblin of Oceanside at Abilene Christian University in Texas; Ella Salvagio of Carlsbad, Leila Winters of Encinitas and Mila Spengler and Emma Thomas of San Marcos at Miami University in Ohio; Nicolas Sanchez of Encinitas, Grayson Sidney Adickes and Kelly Nicole Marshall of Escondido, Alexandria F. Washington of Oceanside, Andrew Jacob Chandler of San Marcos and Sydney Reese Jackson of Vista at Iowa State University; and Chandler Caster and Hailey Mullen of Oceanside at Hofstra University in New York.

MUSIC FUNDING

The Carlsbad Educational Foundation’s gala to benefit students in May raised over $300,000 to fund the district’s music teacher positions full time.

UTILITIES DIRECTOR

Angela Morrow has

been promoted to director of utilities for the city of Escondido. She has 27 years of experience specializing in water, wastewater, and recycled water and has been with the City of Escondido for almost 15 years.

JULY ART

The Escondido Art Association has announced its theme for the July show will be “Outer Limits: Art from the Great Beyond.” Pieces can be submitted on July 7 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the EAA gallery at 121 W Grand Ave.

SUICIDE PREVENTION

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Oceanside received a $25,000 grant from The Oceanside Community Foundation to address suicide prevention efforts.

WATER AWARD

The Olivenhain Municipal Water District received the 2024 Project of the Year Honor Award from

San Marcos Chamber

CHATTER

the American Public Works Association’s San Diego and Imperial County Chapter for its Manchester Avenue Recycled Water Pipeline Project.

CALIFORNIA BANK

California Bank and Trust raised a total of $94,483 for its 2024 Giving Campaign facilitated by United Way. The campaign, supported by employee donations, has been a part of CB&T’s corporate social responsibility efforts for over three decades.

ITALIAN CLASSES

The Italian Cultural Center will provide Italian language lessons at the San Dieguito Heritage Museum in Encinitas. Classes are held both online and in person. Register at icc-sd.org.

SUN COUNTRY

Sun Country Builders, a Carlsbad-based, multi-family affordable housing general contractor, has hired Carolina Alban-Stoughton as its marketing and business development manager.

PRESCHOOL MEAL PROGRAM

Kiddie Stars Preschool in San Marcos is participating in the federal Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), offering free or reduced meals to all children enrolled at the school at 621 S Rancho Santa Fe Road, San Marcos.

Amid budget crunch, Esco eyes fee increase

By Samantha Nelson ESCONDIDO

— The city is considering increasing fees related to development permits, public recreation, and other community services to help recover operational costs in the face of an ongoing budget deficit.

On June 5, the council directed City Manager Sean McGlynn and the rest of the staff to consider where cost recovery levels can be improved to help the city catch up with spending.

According to staff, providing community services costs the city approximately $12.8 million. However, the city currently only makes $8 million to cover those costs, meaning nearly $5 million must be covered from the city’s general fund.

Unlocking business potential: How SigParser transforms email data into valuable insights

For the past seven years, SigParser has been at the forefront of transforming email and meeting data into valuable relationship insights. Specializing in extracting and enriching contact information from emails and calendars, SigParser empowers businesses to enhance their marketing efforts and optimize their CRM systems. As a proud member of the San Marcos Chamber, SigParser is dedicated to supporting local businesses while providing expert advice on the long journey to business success. What services and/or specialty products do you provide? SigParser helps businesses extract relationships from their email and calendar systems. This data is then used for marketing or for enriching CRM systems. Many companies who don’t have CRM systems purchase SigParser for creating a companywide contact warehouse that’s always

, CTO & Founder of SigParser.

up to date and searchable.

What sets you apart from others in your industry? We make it easy for customers to get started and try our product. Our customers also come from a wide range of industries including venture capital, software companies, law firms, non-profits, manufacturing and real estate just to name a few. What question are you asked most frequent-

ly by clients / prospective buyers?

- Is SigParser secure?

SigParser has an industry standard SOC2 certification, is GDPR compliant, data encrypted at rest and is focused on security best practices.

- What CRMs can SigParser connect to? Salesforce, Dynamics, HubSpot

- How long does it take to process a single mailbox and how much? Typically takes 5 minutes to connect to a mailbox and $99 to $250 to scan 1 to 10 years of history. Then a few hours later the data is available to use.

What is your favorite business success story? SigParser has a law firm customer in the UK who is one in the top 100 law firms in the world. They connected 400 mailboxes and scanned 3 years of history. From 7 million emails SigParser discovered 200K contacts and added 46K contacts to

their CRM and enriched 100K pre-existing records with additional details such as phone numbers, titles, top relationships, latest interaction dates and more. SigParser was able to give their marketing teams detailed insights into who each partner at the firm was working with at their clients and understand engagement trends over time.

What motivated you to join The San Marcos Chamber? We appreciated the events the Chamber was putting on and their influence on issues impacting our business.

As someone doing business in San Marcos, what are you looking forward to accomplishing with the Chamber? We like to support the local businesses in San Marcos.

What’s your best piece of business advice? Often it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

Website: sigparser.com

Staff proposed gradually increasing those costs for users, including residents, nonprofits, local sports groups, and businesses — over a three-year period to improve the program’s cost recovery.

Escondido and other cities typically recover less than the full cost of service for recreational programming due to the community benefit of having citizens actively engaged in it. Lower fees also enable more lower-income households to participate.

Staff proposed specific changes, including increasing the city’s Learn to Swim program from $40 to $45 per participant, which is the average cost for similar services across North County cities. The program costs the city approximately $449 per participant, not including pool maintenance.

Other suggested changes include increasing ballfield lighting fees from $5 to $10 and increasing its banner hanging program to advertise community events from $40 to $100.

Staff would approach achieving various cost recovery levels based on the type of programming; for example, recreation would see only a small bump from currently achieving 45% cost recovery to 50% over the next three years. Current planning services would go from 58% to 100%, engineering would go from 71% to 100%, and

fire prevention would jump from 62% to 100%.

Building services are currently at 95% cost recovery and will be increased to 100% by next year.

Under the staff’s proposed plan, the general fund would see approximately $1.3 million more revenue in the first year of its phased-in approach over three years.

Councilmembers were not only in favor of fee increases; some suggested going even further.

“We need to be looking at this in a more progressive and aggressive manner,” said Councilmember Mike Morasco. “I don’t care what the rest of the state or area is doing; we need to do what’s best for the city.”

Councilmember Consuelo Martinez suggested completely eliminating the banner program, which costs the city more than $1,000 for each banner. The program is expensive because it requires closing the streets where the banners are hung and using equipment to hang them, Martinez said.

Others, like Deputy Mayor Christian Garcia, favored raising the fees to cover the full cost of the banner program.

Council members also generally agreed on phasing in the increases rather than raising fees full throttle next year to give people time to be aware of the impending changes.

“I think a phased approach is considerate,” Martinez said, noting that while she felt the cost increases could go a little higher as well, the city needed to be careful about increasing fees too high for the city’s lower-income population.

Garcia suggested following the staff’s suggestion to increase the fees as planned before changing city policy to increase fees annually based on the consumer price index, which tracks cost of living rates.

McGlynn indicated he “had what he needed” from the City Council to begin work on increasing fees to better achieve cost recovery. Staff will eventually return to the council for final approval.

PAUL MENDOZA

MORROW

THE CITY might ask sports groups, among others, to pay more to cover the costs of community services. Courtesy photo

for other employment.

The teachers said they are worried about how the mass layoffs will impact morale among students, families and other staff. They believe the firings occurred because some of them were pushing back against the “looping model” of teaching planned to begin next fall, which involves a teacher staying with the same group of students for more than one grade level.

“To say we were shocked is an understatement,” the statement said. “We knew there had been some tensions rising … However, we now know this had been planned for a very long time. They were not forthcoming with us regarding our letters of reasonable assurance (which we wanted early), which we now know is because they planned to let most of us go.”

Parents and teachers also said things started to become more difficult with the dismissal of the school’s longtime site administrator last fall. After that, teachers said they began to take on much more work and feel burned out.

“Everyone was maxing themselves out and expressing concerns that were not taken seriously. This has always been a pattern with upper administration that the previous site administrator seemingly shielded everyone from, and when they were gone, the dark side of Baypoint, the unsupportive side, came to light,” teachers’ statement said.

Several Baypoint parents, who also asked to remain anonymous out of fear of retaliation, said they were devastated by the layoffs.

“These teachers are wonderful, and a lot of them took on new job duties over the course of the last year because they were told to, and they still got fired,” one mother said.

Panic about the layoffs proliferated online among community members, with some claiming that all the teachers had been laid off or that the school might be closing. The school sent an email to families on June 12 correcting this information.

Ogwaro rejected the suggestion that there could be retaliation and said he is supporting many of the dismissed teachers by writing letters of recommendation. He also stated that much of the criticism comes from a “vocal minority” of parents and teachers. (The Coast News has learned a private Baypoint chat group containing concerned parents currently has 52 members, representing a significant portion of families connected to the school.)

Ogwaro encouraged families with questions about the situation to contact him, although he clarified that the school could not comment on why particular teachers were laid off.

As of mid-June, the school had already filled some of the vacant teaching positions for next year.

“Of course, we have to deal with the challenges of the substantial change, but we do have a plan for the fall, and we do have highly qualified teacher candidates already hired,” Ogwaro said. “We’re excited for the staff that will be joining.”

Some families, however, have decided to leave. One parent highlighted a recent incident in which a student raised concerns about a substitute teacher in a sixth-grade class making her feel uncomfortable by being too close to her. According to the parent, the school did little to respond.

“I am transferring my children to another school as the administration and board have proven they cannot be trusted, and no one is providing any oversight,” one parent said.

Ogwaro said the school responded immediately after hearing about the incident and that an in-

vestigation that involved reviewing camera footage in the classroom found the complaint unfounded.

Baypoint Prep has been

operating in San Marcos since 2018 and was accredited by the WASC Accrediting Commission for schools in 2022. It was opened by

many of the same individuals involved in Bayshore Preparatory Charter, a K-12 independent study school that also operated in San

Marcos before closing to support the in-person Baypoint school.

Before opening the San Marcos Baypoint location, Ogwaro was also part of the leadership of another Baypoint Prep school active in Riverside County from 2015 to 2020. That school was ultimately closed to focus on the San Marcos location, he said.

Teachers are concerned about how students will fare next year with such a massive change.

“It shows their true character if they let so many seasoned teachers go like this without warning. Students thrive when they feel as though they are in a safe learning environment with teachers and staff who truly care about them. Teachers can create this environment when they also feel safe and cared for by the administration. Unfortunately, this seems to not be the case here,” teachers said.

BAYPOINT PREPARATORY Academy, a K-8 charter school in San Marcos, is facing backlash for laying off seven members of its teaching staff this month. Courtesy photo

Smart tech attracts multifamily housing renters

By Guillermo Rivas

A 2024 survey by the National Multifamily Housing Council found that 87% of renters demand robust connectivity from the properties they live in—and, according to Rent.com, they’re willing to pay $38 more each month to have it. More choices for renters means property owners and managers are challenged to manage rising operating costs while offering the latest and greatest tech to attract and retain residents.

Cox Communities, a division of Cox Communications, has continued its investment in smart technology and is helping to address the needs of property managers and tenants alike. While the latest technology must be added to older MDU properties to help them stay competitive in the housing market, it’s often installed in new builds, which means that Cox’s work also happens, quite literally, at ground level through long-standing relationships with builders like Greystar, which has properties throughout coastal and inland North County including Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos and Carlsbad, among others.

Next-gen smart tech leverages Cox’s fiber-powered network

The Internet of Things (IoT) refers, at its essence, to a network of physical devices—phones, sensors, and cameras, for example—connected to one another and which help owners and residents manage their experience from the curb to the couch.

If you’ve rented a storage unit recently, you’re likely able to open the entrance gate through an app on your phone. In an apartment building or complex, you may use an app to enter a property, garage or elevator. With IoT, nearly everything is at your fingertips.

can cost an owner as much as $35,000, so it’s important to mitigate leak impact. With Smart Tech Leak Detection, a leak will trigger an app or portal notification through a device placed on water heaters and pipes underneath sinks. In addition, smart thermostats and lighting systems reduce energy consumption and increase cost savings.

• Making move-in a breeze — With Cox’s pre-installed internet program, residents can get connected within minutes of moving in and enjoy fast, reliable internet.

Cox Communities has partnered with Level M, a provider of next-generation smart tech solutions for multifamily customers, to provide the most cutting-edge technology solutions, which leverage Cox’s fiber-powered network and 26 years of experience in the multifamily space.

Level M partners with Cox to support the multifamily industry with:

• Offering comfort, convenience, and control to residents — A single app lets residents do everything from enter through a main gate or hallway with a secured door, access a particular elevator floor, and enter their apartment. Residents can also control their thermostat and lights, reducing their utility bills.

• Improving efficiency and property management — Gone are the days of a property manager’s ring full of keys or need to be onsite to manage property access. Owners can now control everything via app or desktop and provide access codes to managers and workers as needed.

• Avoiding unexpected expenses for owners —The average water leak

These are just a few examples of the many ways smart apartment technologies impact the growing MDU market, and more change is coming. The evolution and integration of artificial intelligence and virtual reality with existing infrastructure holds endless promise of what’s possible when it comes to supporting the housing industry.

As developers shift to affordable single-family “build-to-rent” communities with the latest technology, Cox is helping owners of existing properties update their technology. Upgrading older properties with the latest smart tech enables them to remain a viable choice for renters and be a positive contributor in growing communities.

San Diego County is growing, and Cox Communities will continue to innovate and provide smart tech solutions that enhance the multifamily home rental experience.

More at cox.com

Guillermo Rivas is Vice President of New Business Development for Cox Communities, helping multifamily owners leverage Cox’s advanced fiber to the home network, Managed Wi-Fi and IoT network solutions to improve the resident experience.

San Marcos debuts microtransit pilot

By Laura Place SAN MARCOS —

Residents of San Marcos now have another convenient transportation option thanks to a microtransit pilot program launched last week by the North County Transit District.

San Marcos is the first of four cities chosen for the 12-month program, with similar pilots set to roll out in Vista, Fallbrook and Oceanside over the next two years. NCTD officials said they will spend the next year monitoring the program and its reception and seeking funding to maintain it permanently.

“During those 12-month periods, we’ll do an evaluation of the services and see how they’re operating. We’ll get learnings from those who are riding it, take feedback, and make sure the service is working for the community,” said

NCTD Chief Planning and Communications Officer Chris Orlando.

NCTD’s on-demand microtransit service, NCTD+, allows residents to book a trip via the NCTD+ app to anywhere within an approximately 10-mile zone of the city.

The zone includes several parks, Cal State San Marcos and Palomar College, shopping centers, the Boys and Girls Club, the San Marcos Civic Center, Kaiser Permanente Medical Center and several transit stops.

One-way trips cost $5 for the first person, with all additional riders in the same booking charged $2.50. Trips to or from an NCTD transit center are also $2.50 per person. Individuals age 13 and up are permitted to ride unaccom-

RAIN, WIND, AND FIRE...

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

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

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

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

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

COX’S PRE-INSTALLED internet program gets residents connected within minutes of moving in. Courtesy photo/Cox

NCTD’S on-demand microtransit service launched in San Marcos last week for a one-year test run. Photo by Laura Place

to grow and flourish even more.

“As we stand here on this beloved campus, it’s impossible not to reflect on the countless memories made over the years,” Paliotti said.

“While our surroundings may change, the spirit of being a Bronco remains strong. We eagerly anticipate the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.”

Bobier’s campus was originally built in 1956. Several of its classrooms are housed in portables, all of which will be removed during construction.

Vista Unified Trustee Rosemary Smithfield, along with former trustee Debbie Morton, has been a strong advocate for the project over the years. Smithfield said the aging campus has experienced ceiling tiles falling on students, mold, and rain getting inside in the past.

“This school needed so much work,” Smithfield said. “It was through Deb and my constant pestering and being involved every step of the way that we are here today.”

Vista Unified leaders spent several years working in conjunction with Ruhnau Clarke Architects and contractor Bernards, as well as Bobier staff and students, to plan a campus that would help students thrive.

Two Bobier student ambassadors also worked with project architects to give input on plans for the playground and field.

“Even though I won’t be a student at Bobier when the

the new Bobier Elementary School campus in Vista, which broke ground last week and will remain under construction until 2026.

school is finished, I will be glad for other students, like my brother,” said student ambassador Alejandro Morales Mejia, who is entering fourth grade.

District leaders acknowledged that moving Bobier’s community to a new campus will be a difficult transition but said it’s a challenge the district is ready for. They also thanked the district taxpayers for their trust and support in funding Measure LL.

“I am so excited to have a brand new facility for our students, staff, and families. This new facility will set the bar for future improvements across the district,” Superin-

tendent Matthew Doyle said.

Vista Unified completed several other Measure LL projects this year, including the Career Technical Education facility at Rancho Buena Vista High School and two new campus buildings at Vista High School.

With the $247 million bond nearly used up, district leaders are considering placing another bond measure on the November ballot to fund even more facility projects. The board of trustees will decide in July whether to officially place the bond, currently proposed at $364 million with a rate of 4 cents per $100 of assessed value, before voters.

Celebrate INDEPENDENCE at

High school stars to play Petco game

By Staff REGION

—

The San Diego Padres will showcase the top high school baseball players in the CIF San Diego Section at the Padres High School AllStar Night on June 26, following the Padres-Nationals game at Petco Park.

All-Star Night will begin about 5 p.m. when eight high school long-ball hitters will compete in the Padres High School Home Run Derby. The All-Star Game will begin right after the Home Run Derby.

Fifteen players from 10 North County schools are on the rosters.

The West squad includes P/3B Tyler Foster, Carlsbad; C/OF Eli Selga, Cathedral Catholic; C Darren Lopez and LHP Zane Nordquist, El Camino; 1B/3B Kyle Rogers, Mission Hills; SS/2B Will Hostetter, Oceanside; LHP Porter Rovin, Sage Creek; 3B/SS JJ Moran and OF Gavin Vanderpool, San Marcos; CF Jack Haferkamp, RHP Will Marenghi and OF Connor Sawyer, Santa Fe Christian; and SS Thomas Maher and RHP/CF Peyton Rodgers, Torrey Pines.

The East squad includes OF Luke Nieblas, San Pasqual.

Tickets are available at: mlb.com/padres/fans/ high-school-all-stars

RENDERINGS of

‘Cycling Across Oregon’:

Tips from North County

alum

He had fair warning.

“You don’t want to do that,” a friend told travel writer and author Dan Shryock when he revealed his plan to ride a bicycle (not electric) from Escondido to the top of Palomar Mountain.

But Shryock was committed, not because he wanted another notch in his cycling belt, but because he and three friends were scouting the route for prospective riders in the Giro di San Diego, an annual cycling event that offers four rides of varying difficulty.

Shryock regularly previews event routes throughout the state, then writes about them for Cycle California! Magazine.

“We describe our experience, what participants can expect, and talk about the event,” Shryock said in a phone call from his Salem, Oregon, home.

On this 56-mile route, “We gained more than 4,100 feet on the mountain alone and 7,000 over the complete route. It was just unrelenting. On average, the grade was more than 6%. For reference, interstates can’t be steeper than 6%.”

The group did finish –“It’s the hardest ride I’ve ever done” – and lest you think Shryock a super jock: “I took my time. I’d ride three miles and take a break. Then repeat. Then two miles and

take a break. Then a mileand-a-half. In the end, it was three-fourths of a mile…”

Full disclosure: Shryock was my editor at North County’s Times-Advocate back in the day. Another newspaper job took him to Oregon 25 years ago, and he began riding 10 year later.

“I got involved in cycling the way most people get involved,” he recalled. “I was running but my knees hurt. I had to get off the couch, so I started riding. I found I really loved it.”

This and his work for an Oregon tourism association eventually prompted “the light bulb to go on. Cycle tourism wasn’t that popular, so I decided to focus on that. Now, 90% of my work is in cycle tourism.”

Stories, Surprises & Revelations Along the State’s Scenic Bikeways."

“I’d lived in Oregon for 25 years and there were parts I had never seen or heard of,” Shryock said. “Going on a bike, I got to see it at a slow pace…and made lots of discoveries along the way.”

The book shares those discoveries.

The stars aligned with the development of Oregon’s system of 17 Scenic Bikeways to promote cycle tourism and bring business to small towns.

Combine Shryock’s love of cycling and travel and his talent for writing and we get “Cycling Across Oregon:

GUNTHER

The author not only provides the information that cyclists need — maps, mileage, available facilities, elevation gain and difficulty rating — but stories of the people and places he encountered along the Scenic Bikeways. To name a few: a survivor of the September 2020 inferno that took lives and homes along the Cascading Rivers bikeway; the hatchery technician who explained the nurturing of the salmon populations; the magic of walking the still-visible wagon ruts of the Oregon Trail; the history of bikeways’ towns; the state’s mostly unknown diverse geography and climate; and what to do when you’re off the bike.

Which is all to say that non-cyclers will find this book just as interesting and useful as cyclers.

“At the core, I’m a travel writer,” Shryock said. “I love my job because I get to find these places and tell people about them. I don’t talk about gear ratios and tire pressure.”

I had to ask about e-bikes and the increasing interest.

“Are e-bike riders getting as much exercise as on a regular bike?” he mused. “No, but it’s more exercise than sitting on a couch. At least they are outside, enjoying the fresh air and getting some exercise.”

“Cycling Across Oregon” is available in paperback and e-book from Amazon. For more info and photos, visit www.facebook. com/elouise.ondash.

CARLA SHRYOCK, wife of author Dan Shryock and one of the book’s editors, rides with son Sam through the Dorena Covered Bridge on the Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway near Cottage Grove. Photo by Dan Shryock

FROM 3

cannabis business tax measure that would likely come before voters in 2026.

Deputy Mayor Christian Garcia agreed to take more time to explore a cannabis business tax measure as long as the city considered regulations beforehand, environmental reviews, and ways to protect the areas surrounding potential future dispensaries.

Garcia said he didn’t want to see a concentration of dispensaries in one location in the city.

“There’s a lot of work to be done before we even consider putting it on the ballot in 2024,” Garcia said. “I think it would be smart for us — if we were to consider it — to look at 2026.”

The survey also found that 56% of respondents favored a one-cent sales tax increase. Proponents of the sales tax measure recently submitted signatures for the measure, and they are awaiting final verification from the San Diego County Registrar of Voters by early July to make the November ballot.

The idea behind both the cannabis and sales tax measures would be to help increase the city’s revenue and address its ongoing, severe operating budget defi-

MICROTRANSIT

CONTINUED FROM 8

panied, and the service is available seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

NCTD said the program’s fleet of 10 vans, each with an 8-person capacity, has bike storage and is 100% ADA accessible.

San Marcos and NCTD leaders celebrated the program’s launch at the Tuesday farmer’s market in North City. They noted that it offers a much cheaper alternative to ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft and is convenient for many situations.

“I really think the sweet spot of this is going to be with seniors and students,” said Councilmember Mike

In loving memory of Clifton Patrick Brownell

April 5, 2024

cit. According to the survey, only 28% of respondents agreed to vote in favor of the cannabis business tax and sales tax measures; meanwhile, 19.5% would only vote for the sales tax, and 22% would only vote for the cannabis tax measure.

Most respondents also agreed that homelessness is a primary concern for residents and that the city could do a better job addressing it.

Many also favored more parks and open space over increased housing; however, most agreed that more workforce housing options were needed.

“I think what we can say is that we’ve got to do a lot more education in this space and need to better understand specifically what the concerns are and what the resistances are from residents,” said City Manager Sean McGlynn.

Despite recognizing a need to improve how the city addresses homelessness, most respondents indicated they were generally satisfied with the quality of life in Escondido and the city’s provided services.

“They’re happy with parks and trails and open space — they want more of it — but they’re happy with what you’re doing or satisfied with it,” Probolsky said.

Sannella.

Mayor Rebecca Jones encouraged residents to take advantage of the program in the next year so that it can continue.

“I think it’s going to be a huge success. We need to make sure it’s going to be successful, so everyone needs to try to use it as much as possible,” Jones said.

The NCTD+ app can be downloaded for free on the Apple and Google app stores. In addition to instant rides, users can also schedule a ride ahead of time on the app or by calling 760726-1111.

For more information, including a map of the NCTD+ service zone in San Marcos, visit gonctd.com/ services/nctdplus.

Clifton Patrick Brownell, 32 of San Diego, CA passed away unexpectedly on April 5, 2024.

Born in Oceanside, CA, Clifton was the son of Gregory Brownell of San Diego, CA and Elizabeth “Betty” Arnold of Oceanside, CA.

Growing up in Encinitas, CA, Cliff was a passionate fan of the San Diego Chargers, authentic Mexican burritos, and anything with an engine.

Cliff could often be found riding a motorcycle (most likely on one wheel), listening to music or riding passenger

alongside his Dad.

Cliff always looked forward to his trips back to Newport, RI, where he would spend time with his extended family. Cliff could be found fishing, riding dirt bikes and eating as many lobsters as he could fit into one trip.

He was at his happiest when he was around his family. Cliff had a true talent for making people laugh and for finding mischief wherever he went - keeping everyone on their toes!

Cliff’s devoted father, Greg Brownell, was his biggest support system and a loyal best friend. Greg will miss Cliff greatly.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Milford and Elizabeth Siegel and his Uncle Joseph Siegel.

Cliff was the youngest of three brothers, leaving behind Matthew and Thomas Brownell whom he loved dearly.

Cliff was the proud uncle to Josslyn Brownell and her loving mother, Ashley Sisto.

Cliff is also survived by his faithful paternal grandparents Clifton and Mary Alice Brownell of

Middletown, RI. Along with his Aunt Donna and Uncle Donnie McHenry, Uncle Steven Brownell, Aunt Susan Amelotte, Auntie Tina Brownell and Uncle Jeff Siegel, Cliff leaves behind his crew of RI cousins, Steven Brownell, Donald McHenry, Nicholas Brownell, Peter McHenry, Brianna Ferrara, and Marielle Clair who will greatly miss their youngest cousin, “Cliffy.” Cliff was also lucky enough to gain two cousin-inlaws Stephen Clair and Simone Ferrara whom he loved as bonus older brothers.

In addition to his family, Cliff leaves behind many memories of his time in Tiverton with his truest friend, Pete, and the Thomas family. Cliff had an easy way of attracting friends.

His caring and humorous demeanor drew people to him. Once you met Cliff, you remembered Cliff.

Cliff never forgot to check-in on those he loved and cared for his family and friends immensely. Cliff showed his love through endless phone calls, letters, and

the biggest bear hugs. Aside from being a Brownell, Cliff was most proud to be an uncle. Through his struggles, Cliff never lost the ability to always look forward and never stopped dreaming. His most recent goal was to move back to Rhode Island.

This summer, Cliff will be brought back to Rhode Island and laid to rest surrounded by his family and friends. Cliff will be greatly missed and forever remembered in all of our hearts.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held Saturday, June 22, 2024 at St. Mary’s Church, corner of Spring St. & Memorial Blvd, Newport at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow at Portsmouth Cemetery, Turnpike Ave & Dexter St, Portsmouth. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Seamen’s Church Institute, Newport, RI in Cliff’s name: https://seamensnewport. org/make-a-donation/ Arrangements are by the O’Neill-Hayes Funeral Home. For more information, please visit www.oneillhayes.com.

Ignacio Burbon Arvizu Carlsbad June 11, 2024

Rufino Ortega Suarez Encinitas May 31, 2024

Patricia Ann Knudten Escondido May 21, 2024 Barbara Lynn Simmons Carlsbad June 4, 2024

Bobby Joe Prestage Escondido June 10, 2024

Darlene Ethel Mae Armstrong Valley Center May 29, 2024

“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.” — Irish proverb For more information call 760.436.9737

Submission Process Please email 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.

Obituaries should be received and approved before Friday at 12 p.m. for publication in the next week Friday’s newspaper.

for fun in the sun as we all continue to take to the great outdoors to enjoy our Southern CA lifestyle.

Summer also requires a few safety reminders to keep fun at the top of our list. Outdoor activities should always include sunscreen and plenty of water, for young and old alike. Whether at the pool or beach, a cautious eye for safety is a must. Food eaten outdoors should be monitored for temperature - both hot and cold - to prevent food poisoning. Outdoor activities can sometimes include bee stings, snake bites, scrapes, and various “owies,” so be prepared to provide first aide to those in need.

Please stay safe while having a “ton of fun” in the good ole summertime!

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EVENTS CALENDAR

JUNE 21

FREE SUMMER MEALS

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Oceanside is offering a summer meal program for free to children 18 years old and younger. Meals must be eaten at the club. Meals served at 7 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. from June 10 to Aug. 9 at Boys & Girls Clubs of Oceanside, 401 Country Club Ln, Oceanside.

TANDEM INTUITION

Malashock Dance’s first performance with work by our new Artistic Director Christopher K. Morgan. $20-$40. June 19-23 at Malashock Dance Studio Theater, 2650 Truxtun Rd, San Diego.

POLITICAL SCIENCE TOPICS

Carl Luna, visiting political science professor from the University of San Diego, will present an overview of the November election through a local and national lens. Learn about challenges democracy faces globally. Free, 2:30 p.m. at MiraCosta College, 1 Barnard Dr, Oceanside.

EARTHQUAKE INFO

Paleoseismologist Tim Rockwell of the Southern California Earthquake Center will present information about earthquake activity and how it has and may again impact the region. Free, 1 p.m. at MiraCosta College, 1 Barnard Dr, Oceanside.

SUMMER SOLSTICE SOIREE

The Escondido Art Association will host its Summer for their upcoming 65th Anniversary event on June 21 at the Churchill House. 5 to 8 p.m. June 21 at The Churchill House, 140 W 3rd Ave, Escondido.

JUNE 22

ENGINE & TRACTOR SHOW

The annual Antique Engine and Tractor Show will feature dozens of antique engines and tractors, each with their own unique story. Visitors can browse through the various exhibits, meet owners and more. Tickets $9 and up. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 22-23 and June 22-23 at Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum, 2040 N Santa Fe Ave, Vista.

DINNER IN THE GARDEN

The Encinitas Community Garden hold its annual fundraiser, “Dinner in the Garden.” Wine and dessert are included. Vegetarian options will be available. Over 18 only. $125, 3 to 7 p.m. June 22 at Encinitas Community Garden, 230 Quail Gardens Dr, Encinitas.

MAINLY MOZART

The biggest event in classical music returns this summer. Concertmasters and principal players from the nation’s top orchestras

gather for a remarkable 6-concert series. $25, 7:30 p.m. at Epstein Family Amphitheater, 9500 Gilman Dr, San Diego.

CINEMA UNDER STARS

Fairmont Grand Del Mar, the award-winning resort located in the coastal canyons of San Diego, is thrilled to bring Grand Cinema Under the Stars presented by Fatboy. Free-$20, 8 p.m. at Fairmont Grand Del Mar, 5300 Grand del Mar Ct, San Diego.

SUMMER FUN ON THE 101 Summer Fun on the 101 is a free music festival open to the whole community. The festival includes a hula hoop competition, kids art activities, a beer garden, giveaways and live musical performances. Free, 11:30 a.m. at Leucadia Roadside Park , 860 N Coast Highway 101, Encinitas.

TELL YOUR STORY

The Solana Beach Community Connections present a workshop series that assists aspiring writers how to better tell their own stories. $20, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. June 22 at Lomas Santa Fe Plaza, 931 Lomas Santa Fe Dr, Solana Beach.

TANDEM INTUITION

Malashock Dance’s first performance with work by our new Artistic Director Christopher K. Morgan. 2:30 to 4 p.m. and 7:30 to 9 p.m. June 22 at Malashock Dance Studio Theater, 2650 Truxtun Rd, San Diego.

TIJUANA STREET FOOD

Enjoy an exciting street food tour in Tijuana with 7 stops!. $69, 12 to 4 p.m. June 22 at Meeting spot: McDonald’s San Ysidro Trolley Station, 727 E San Ysidro Blvd, San Diego.

CACTUS & SUCCULENT

The Palomar Cactus

and Succulent Society will host Gunnar Eisel, president of the Cactus and Succulent Society of America. 1 p.m. at Park Avenue Community Center, Park Ave, Escondido.

DEATH CAFE

A death cafe is for people, often strangers, to gather for treats, tea and discussions about death. The objective is to increase awareness of death with a view to help people make the most of life. Free, 11 to 11:30 a.m. June 22 at Seaside Center for Spiritual Living, 1613 Lake Dr, Encinitas.

SANDPIPERS’ SOCK HOP

The Sandpipers Square Dance Club invites new dances ages 10 and up for hot dogs and rootbeer floats followed by a community dance at 6 p.m. $10, 5:15 p.m. at St. James Parish Hall, 625 S Nardo Ave, Solana Beach.

K.J. KAMINSKI

The Comics Stronghold is hosting local comic creator K.J. Kaminski for a signing event. Free, 12 to 4 p.m. June 22 at The Comics Stronghold, 1906 Oceanside Blvd, Oceanside.

JUNE 23

BEST ON BROADWAY

First Congregational Church of Escondido announces the “Best on Broadway,” musical fundraiser featuring outstanding local talent. Free, 4-5:30 p.m. June 23 at First Congregational Church of Escondido, 1800 N Broadway, Escondido.

OHS ALL-CLASS REUNION

Oceanside High School will celebrate its 118th year with the annual all class reunion summer picnic at Heritage Park. No advanced registration, public

is welcome. $2, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 23 at Heritage Village Park, 219 Peyri Dr, Oceanside.

JAZZ EVENSONG

Jazz Evensong presents a blend of Anglican prayer and American jazz in the heart of Carlsbad Village at St. Michael’s by the Sea Episcopal Church. 4 p.m. at St. Michael’s-by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, 2775 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad.

JUNE 24

LITTLE EXPLORERS

Do you have a creative and curious problem solver? $300-$350, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 24 at San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum, 320 N Broadway, Escondido.

YOUTH TENNIS CAMPS

Fun, fast paced tennis camps with lots of instruction for beginners to advanced players. See San Marcos recreation summer schedule for available. They are filling up fast. $170, Woodland Park, 671 Woodland Pkwy, San Marcos.

JUNE 25

FAMILY HISTORY

Maureen Brady will present the “Family History Research Circle” at the North San Diego County Genealogical Society’s June meeting. The Legacy Users Group will meet virtually later that day at 1 p.m. Free, 10 to 11:30 a.m. June 25 at Faraday Center, Faraday Ave, Carlsbad.

CARLSBAD GOP WOMEN

The Carlsbad Republican Women will host Kevin Faulconer, 2024 candidate for the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, and CAGOP Political Director Krista PIttman as speakers at its June luncheon. $39$44, 11 a.m. at Holiday Inn,

turns to downtown. More than 100 parade entries are expected to march, roll, walk and drive North Coast Highway from Wisconsin Avenue to Civic Center Drive. Free, 10 a.m. at Downtown Oceanside, Pier View Way, Oceanside.

TELL YOUR STORY

The Solana Beach Community Connections presents a workshop series that assists aspiring writers with how to better tell their own stories. $20, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. June 29 at Lomas Santa Fe Plaza, 931 Lomas Santa Fe Dr, Solana Beach.

ART NIGHT

Join us at Off Track Gallery for an unforgettable evening of visual art and music at Art Night Encinitas. This event is free and open to the public. Free, 10 a.m. at Off Track Gallery, 937 S Coast Highway 101, Encinitas.

2725 Palomar Airport Rd, Carlsbad.

TWILIGHT IN THE PARK

Enjoy these free summer concerts with family and friends and don’t forget to bring a picnic. Free, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. June 25 at Spreckels Organ Pavilion, 2125 Pan American Rd E, San Diego.

JUNE 27

HISTORIC ESCONDIDO

An informative look at the history and architectural designs of the Escondido Public Library’s neighborhood homes and buildings. Free, 6 to 7 p.m. June 27 at Escondido Public Library, 239 S Kalmia St, Escondido.

CONCERTS AT THE COVE

The city of Solana Beach and the Belly Up Tavern are partnering to bring back the summer “Concerts at the Cove” series. Free, 6 to 7:45 p.m. June 27 at Fletcher Cove Park, 111 S Sierra Ave, Solana Beach.

JUNE 28

SPRING FLOWERS

Master Flower Show

Judge Barbara Weiler will present on the National Flower Shows structure and will do a live flower arrangement at the end of her talk. Free, 2:30 p.m. at MiraCosta College, 1 Barnard Dr, Oceanside.

THE DOOLITTLE RAID

Retired Navy Capt. Rafe Arnott will deliver a presentation on the Doolittle Raid during World War II. Free, 1 p.m. at MiraCosta College, 1 Barnard Dr, Oceanside.

JUNE 29

INDEPENDENCE PARADE

The annual Oceanside Independence Parade re -

HIRING FAIR

The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa, the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort & Spa, and The Cassara Carlsbad, Tapestry Collection by Hilton are gearing up for the busy summer travel season by hosting a hiring event. Free, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 29 at Westin Carlsbad, 5480 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad.

JUNE

30

ECO-PERFORMANCE FEST

Following the success of last year’s festival, Coastal Roots Farm and JFEST (San Diego’s Jewish arts festival) invite San Diegans for an evening of original eco-theater, dance and music. $36, 5 to 9 p.m. June 30 at Coastal Roots Farm, 441 Saxony Rd, Encinitas.

JAVA JOE’S REUNION

Join master of ceremonies Jose Sinatra and Java Joe with an all-star lineup of luminaries from the legendary coffeehouse. $25$30, 4 to 6 p.m. June 30 at San Diego Oasis Center at Rancho Bernardo, 17170 Bernardo Center Dr, San Diego.

JAZZ EVENSONG

Jazz Evensong presents a blend of Anglican prayer and American jazz in the heart of Carlsbad Village at St. Michael’s by the Sea Episcopal Church. 4 p.m. at St. Michael’s-by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, 2775 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad.

CONNECTING EMOTIONS

Join our Day Retreat to connect with your emotions and manifest your dream life. Expert-led activities include emotional resilience, cacao ceremony, breathwork, and sound healing. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 30 at Wild Acres Avocado Farm, 1560 Wild Acres Rd, Vista.

RED, WHITE AND BLUE will flood Coast Highway 101 on June 29 as thousands of spectators are expetced to attend this year’s Oceanside Independence Parade. Photo by Jessamyn Trout

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803 CUSTOMER SERVICE: 800-708-7311 EXT. 257

TRIVIA TEST #12345_20240617 FOR RELEASE JUNE 17, 2024 By Fifi Rodriguez

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

CUSTOMER SERVICE: 800-708-7311 EXT. 257

TRIVIA TEST #12345_20240617 FOR RELEASE JUNE 17, 2024

By Fifi Rodriguez

1. GEOGRAPHY: Which country’s native name is Cymru?

1. GEOGRAPHY: Which country’s native name is Cymru?

2. HISTORY: Which country is the first to recognize same-sex marriage?

GEOGRAPHY: Which country’s native name is Cymru?

2. HISTORY: Which country is the first to recognize same-sex marriage?

3. MOVIES: Who voices the character of Frozone in the animated movie “The Incredibles”?

4. FOOD & DRINK: What is the primary ingredient in baba ganoush?

5. LITERATURE: The movie “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” is based on a short story written by which American author?

6. MEASUREMENTS: How many grams are in a pound?

7. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What cultural phenomenon is celebrated on May 4?

8. TELEVISION: Rhoda Morgenstern is a sidekick in which 1970s TV sitcom?

9. SCIENCE: What is the process called when iron is coated with zinc?

10. U.S. STATES: What is the only vowel that is NOT the first letter of a state?

2. HISTORY: Which country is the first to recognize same-sex marriage?

3. MOVIES: Who voices the character of Frozone in the animated movie “The Incredibles”?

4. FOOD & DRINK: What is the primary ingredient in baba ganoush?

3. MOVIES: Who voices the character of Frozone in the animated movie “The Incredibles”?

5. LITERATURE: The movie “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” is based on a short story written by which American author?

4. FOOD & DRINK: What is the primary ingredient in baba ganoush?

6. MEASUREMENTS: How many grams are in a pound?

7. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What cultural phenomenon is celebrated on May 4?

5. LITERATURE: The movie “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” is based on a short story written by which American author?

Answers

1. Wales.

2. The Netherlands. 3. Samuel L. Jackson.

4. Eggplant.

5. F. Scott Fitzgerald. 6. 454 grams.

7. “Star Wars” movies.

8. “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.” 9. Galvanization.

6. MEASUREMENTS: How many grams are in a pound?

8. TELEVISION: Rhoda Morgenstern is a sidekick in which 1970s TV sitcom? 9. SCIENCE: What is the process called when iron is coated with zinc?

7. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What cultural phenomenon is celebrated on May 4?

8. TELEVISION: Rhoda Morgenstern is a sidekick in which 1970s TV sitcom?

Samuel L. Jackson.

9. SCIENCE: What is the process called when iron is coated with zinc?

10. U.S. STATES: What is the only vowel that is NOT the first letter of a state?

Answers

1. Wales.

2. The Netherlands.

3. Samuel L. Jackson.

4. Eggplant.

5. F. Scott Fitzgerald.

6. 454 grams.

7. “Star Wars” movies.

8. “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.”

9. Galvanization.

10. E.

© 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

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

Scott Fitzgerald.

“The Mary Tyler Moore Show.”

Galvanization.

Summer Fun & Learning

July 22 - August 3rd

9 AM-12 PM Rehearsals

Show Dates:

Friday, Aug 2nd; 2 PM and 6 PM

Saturday, Aug 3rd, 2 PM and 5 PM

Virtual, on-site or blended learning with credentialed teachers

Field trips, clubs and social activities

Passionate about personalization

Caring teachers to address students’ individual needs

Musical theatre summer production: ‘Disney Dreams: A Magical Melody’

This summer, dive into a world of enchantment with “Disney Dreams: A Magical Melody,” our latest musical theatre production. Featuring beloved scenes and songs from Disney classics like Frozen, Moana, and Aladdin Jr., this program offers a unique opportunity for young performers aged 6 to 15 to create, rehearse, and perform a magical musical play.

Participants will have the chance to immerse themselves in all aspects of theatre. Whether they dream of being in the spotlight or prefer the creative hustle behind the scenes, there's a role for ev-

eryone. Kids can choose the characters they want to portray or the musical parts they wish to perform. Additionally, those who are more interested in stage production can contribute by helping to create costumes, design sets, and manage backstage activities.

One of the unique aspects of this program is its inclusivity. All kids who want to perform will have speaking roles and singing parts, ensuring that everyone gets their moment to shine. Throughout the week, they'll work together to bring this magical story to life, culmi-

nating in a special public performance where they can showcase their hard work and talent.

Our previous productions, including “Aladdin Jr.,” “Willy Wonka,” “James and the Giant Peach” and “Charlie Brown Christmas,” have been met with enthusiasm and applause. This year's “Disney Dreams: A Magical Melody” promises to be just as spectacular, offering an unforgettable experience for all participants.

Take advantage of this chance to be part of a magical musical journey. Sign up now and let your creativity soar!

Customizing education to meet the individual needs of students

Cultivating academic independence in a safe environment

Collaborative team approach to ensuring student success

Program designed to develop confidence and change lives

School isn’t one size fits all. Sometimes a student needs something just a little different in order to succeed. That’s where Pivot Charter School San Diego shines — they customize education to meet each student's individual needs. The free public charter school serving grades K-12 leverages a 100% online curriculum in combination with a resource center in San Marcos where students can receive hands-on support from teachers, engage in electives and in-person activities, and connect with other students in a small setting.

Pivot's unique model pairs each student with a dedicated teacher to offer personalized support and flexibility, empowering them to master their learning and accelerate their path to graduation. Whether a student needs extra help to get back on track, seeks to work ahead of the pace of traditional educational environments or prefers to work on an alternative schedule, Pivot provides the environment for every student to succeed.

“At Pivot, we recognize that the path to educational success looks different for each student,” said San Diego Site Coordinator Adrian Heredia. “We take pride in transforming students’ experiences in education by listen-

ing, adapting and supporting them through whatever challenges they may face.”

Students at Pivot have the option to choose a learning model that best suits their needs and preferences. They can fully engage in remote learning from the comfort of their homes or visit the resource center for additional support and face-to-face interactions. This flexibility ensures that each student can thrive in an environment tailored to their individual learning style and circumstances.

This model inspires independent thinking and equips students for the future, motivating them to embrace their full potential and step confidently into their next chapter.

“At Pivot, we celebrate the individuality of each student,” said San Diego Site Administrator Gail Gonzalez Coloyan. “Through personalized support and strong student-teacher relationships, we lay the foundation for long-term academic and personal triumph.”

In addition to a robust K-12 curriculum, Pivot offers high school students the opportunity to engage in college-level learning and career technical education courses. The school partners with institutions like Palomar Col-

lege and Santa Rosa Junior College, allowing students to earn college credits while completing their high school education.

Pivot Charter School San Diego is currently enrolling grades K-12 for the 20242025 school year. Learn more about Pivot San Diego by reaching out directly to Pivot’s site coordinator Adrian Heredia at aheredia@ pivotcharter.org or (760) 5910217 to begin the enrollment process or schedule a visit to Pivot San Diego’s resource center, located at 1030 La Bonita Dr., Suite 100, San Marcos, CA 92078.

About Pivot San Diego Pivot San Diego is a Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredited charter public school serving students K-12 in San Diego, Orange, Riverside, and Imperial counties. At Pivot, we work hard every day so that our students struggle less and learn more. Pivot’s custom curriculum and collaborative resources define success, develop confidence, and change lives. Like students who find new opportunities here, we are focused yet flexible–with caring teachers who address students’ individual needs and cultivate academic independence in a safe environment.