The
Clairemont Times Serving Clairemont, Bay Park, Linda Vista & Kearny Mesa
V2.E2
News of the Neighborhoods
February 2012
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Clairemont is the Destination With the opening of the Energy Innovation Center on January 18th Clairemont is now directly associated with the highest honor in the energy efficiency industry; LEED Platinum Certified. In layman’s terms the building was built using strategies and techniques which are of the highest standards in the industry. The EIC is a recyclers dream. Almost 85% of the original building material were reused or recycled. When you take a tour, and I highly encourage everyone to take advantage of the opportunity, take note of the
carpet made of recycled tires. Also, be sure and visit the garden out back to learn some tips on how to make better use of your yard and planting techniques. For more on the EIC see page 9.
into their routine. The tryouts have been ongoing and The Clairemont Times was there to capture some of the action. See inside for more details.
Also In This Edition What do pancakes, a rummage sale, Spring is in the Air an art show, a new cafe, free tax help With baseball diamonds full of youngsters you know spring is not far and much more all have to do with off. While the Padres have a ways to our neighborhoods? Keep reading. Plus we have an amazing person go before their spring training officialcoming to the area for an extended ly gets underway, the Clairemont visit (sorry, the “we” is a select few). Hilltoppers little leaguers are deep
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Police Blotter Week of Jan 1, 2012 Theft 3500 Ticonderoga St DUI 2600 Luna Ave Vehicle Break-In 5000 Frink Ave Theft 4900 Diane Ave Aggravated Assault 700 Mt. Etna Dr Theft 5900 Balboa Ave Vehicle Theft 2800 Cowley Way Theft 3900 Clairemont Dr. Vehicle Break-In 3800 Mt. Aladin Ave Vehicle Theft 6700 Beadnell Way Theft 2900 Clairemont Dr Vehicle Theft 3300 Bevis St. Vehicle Break-In 5500 Genesee Court E Theft 3900 Clairemont Mesa Blvd Vehicle Break-In 3400 Cowley Way Residential Burglary 4700 Mt. Frissell Dr DUI 4200 Clairemont Mesa Blvd Vehicle Theft 4300 Dakota Dr Vehicle Break-In 4300 Napier St
Res Burglary 5300 Northridge Ave Vehicle Break-In 4200 Kane St Theft 4200 Genesee Ave Res Burglary 4800 Cork Pl Theft 4400 Mt. Abernathy Ave Res Burglary 4300 Conrad Ave Res Burglary 3200 Old Heather Rd. Res Burglary 3000 Cowley Way Theft 4800 Doliva Dr Theft 5500 Balboa Ave Res Burglary 4500 Kamloop Ave Robbery 3000 Clairemont Dr. Week of January 8, 2012 DUI 3400 Ashford St Theft 4700 Clairemont Dr Aggravated Assault 4400 Bannock Ave Vehicle Break-In 4400 Atwell St. Vehicle Break-In 2700 Ariane Dr Comm Burglary 5500 Balboa Ave Vehicle Break-In 4300 Genesee Ave Theft 7300 Mesa College Dr. Res Burglary 3800 Mt. Acadia Blvd Aggravated Assault
5200 Livering Lane Comm Burglary 4200 Jutland Dr Drug/Alcohol Violation 4200 Clairemont Mesa Blvd Vandalism 5300 Clairemont Mesa Blvd Aggravated Assault 5400 Limerick Ave Drug/Alcohol Violation 4500 Genesee Ave Vandalism 3900 Anastasia Week of January 15, 2012 Vehicle Theft 3300 Clairemont Dr. Vandalism 4100 Mt. Alifan Pl Assault 4800 Clairemont Dr Theft 5000 Biltmore St Vehicle Break-In 4500 Clairemont Dr Drug/Alcohol Violation 7300 Blix St. Drug/Alcohol Violation 2200 Chicago St. Fraud 2100 Deerpark Dr Comm Burglary 1000 West Morena Blvd Theft 2500 Morena Blvd Vehicle Break-In 3400 Brandywine St.
Res Burglary 4900 Mt. Ashmun Dr Vehicle Break-In 2700 Bay Canyon Ct Vehicle Break-In 1900 Magdalene Way Vehicle Break-In 4500 Lyric Ave Week of January 22, 2012 Comm Burglary 4200 Jutland Dr Drug/Alcohol Violation 4600 Pocahontas Ave Com Burglary 3900 Clairemont Mesa Blvd Vehicle Break-In 4600 Mt. La Platta Dr DUI 4900 Limerick Ave Drug/Alcohol Violation 5500 Balboa Ave Vandalism 4700 Iroquois Ave Aggravated Assault 7600 Stalmer St Res Burglary 3600 Ashford St Vehicle Theft 5300 Clairemont Mesa Blvd
“Winter” in San Diego Ah yes winter in San Diego, the only thing winter about living in these parts is the calendar says so. Another sure fire way to know it is winter; out of town visitors. February 1st my wife and I will be having such a visitor. The mother of all visitors………literally! My Mom is coming for a 6 week visit. We are thrilled, usually during trips we take back East or to the Midwest the time moves so fast you never get to accomplish what you planned. Now it will be refreshing to hang out with Mom not be rushed and just
take it as it goes. 6 weeks may seem like a long time but in reality it too will fly by. In all of her 82 years she has only known or experienced winter as bitter cold, brisk, rainy, snowy, and gray. A “good” winter day back east the sun is shining bright and it’s in the low 30’s. Compare that to our San Diego “winter” if we have a little rain and the temperature drops into the 40’s it’s the first story on the local news. This trip we hope is going to be a refreshing change for her, a winter to remember so to speak. Even though Mom is 82 she is more 62 in spirit. She goes to church everyday then to the gym or to the pool. While her routine will be slightly disrupted out here we are confident she will get into a rhythm. We found her a beautiful church and an outdoor heated pool. These options are here for her if she wants but who knows being able to do anything or nothing is what a vacation is all about. On Mom’s last visit out here two years ago (lasting 5 days) I think she referred to California as “one big happy hour”, looking back I think she was spot on. It’s safe to say there will be many more amazing comments during the next 6 weeks. Another lasting memory from the trip, while we were all dining at a scenic, beachfront restaurant she could not have been more amused by a BMX’er doing tricks on the seawall. He loved the attention and she could not get over the show. She still talks not about the great meal but the “entertainment” on the boardwalk.
We have a lot of great things planned for her visit; the most important will be spending time together and creating new memories. Rest assured this visit will be epic…….for all of us.
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Little League Baseball Fever Hits Clairemont For the past couple weekends local youth ranging in age from 7-14 years old have been honing there skills at local baseball diamonds for the upcoming Little League season. Under the watchful eyes of the many coaches, the players fielded grounders, one hoppers, pop fly’s and even a few line drives. Each player then had their chance to step into the batter’s box and take batting practice. When you start hearing the ping of the ball hitting the aluminum bats and the
encouraging words from parents in the stands you know Spring is definitely in the air. It won’t be long before the players take the field in their brand new uniforms, the snack shack opens and the sound of “Play Ball!” will be heard throughout our neighborhoods. If you are looking for some fun sports entertainment under the San Diego sunshine stop and check out a local little league baseball game. Opening Day for the Clairemont Hilltoppers is Saturday, March 3rd.
(For photos of Hilltoppers tryouts see back page)
POTHOLES IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD? Report the street & cross street to City of San Diego Streets & Potholes Division
619.527.7500
The Clairemont Little League is in Need of Volunteers (Umpires, Snack Shack Attendants, Grounds Crew & More) It is a great deal of work putting together a little league season. The hard work does not stop there though, during the season the league needs help. If you love the game of baseball, want to give back to the community and be a part of something fun and exciting then please consider volunteering your time and efforts. Umpires If you or someone you know would be interested in being an umpire please contact: Roger Otterson at:
roger@sdnetweb.com The requirement for being an umpire is that you be at least 13 years of age. The training will be provided. Snack Shack Attendants, Grounds Crew and General Volunteers For more information on these duties and their requirements please contact: Ken Cicalo (619) 889-9216 or email: kenc1313@yahoo.com
To Advertise Your Business or Service in The Clairemont Times Call or email. Chris O’Connell, Publisher (858) 752-9779 or chris@clairemonttimes.com
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Opinions What’s love got to do with it...Get a dog! Greetings Clairemontians! Welcome to another edition of the fastest spreading newspaper on this side of the 5 freeway! I hope this issue finds you well and that you are still going strong with your New Year’s resolution, if not please see last month’s edition for more info or send me an E-mail with questions and comments. When people think about February they often associate it with Valentine’s Day. It seems like the minute the Christmas decorations come down at the stores sea of pink, red, purple cards, and flowers, along with stuffed animals replace it. I’ve got nothing against Valentine’s Day itself, I think you should share the day with someone you love, just like any other holiday. I do however; have an issue with the hoopla that surrounds Cupid’s money making day. Much like every holiday, Valentine’s Day definitely cashes in. I cannot stand fighting the crowds and going to restaurants that insist on having a set menu for the occasion...blah! I myself have been bitten by the love bug and will most likely do something special for my fiancé this Valentine’s Day even though the whole day eats away at me. I don’t think you need a special day to show your affection but if Hallmark has anything to say about it you can bet they will continue to pump out thousands of cards every Valentine’s Day for the next 100 years.
For those of you that can sympathize with my discontent for this holiday I want to offer an alternative for you to get away from it all. GET A DOG! I myself adopted a puppy five years ago, now he’s 90 pounds of pure beast and I love the little guy more than I can tell you. He is actually sitting beside my feet right now as I write this column, we are almost always together. I should probably take a quick second before I continue to let my amazing and beautiful fiancé know that she is my true love and what I feel for my dog isn’t the same thing (but I also know my dog would never break up with me and take the TV if we split up). Having a dog is one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever know. I adopted him from the pound and he was my first dog ever and ever since. I had no idea what I was getting into when I brought this little bugger home with me but I would not trade any of the memories for anything in this world, good or bad. I think being a pet owner makes us better people and you can always show your pet unconditional love and it will always be 100% reciprocated without question. If I leave my house for 10 minutes or 10 hours, it does not matter, when I return he is so excited to see me that he howls and dances around the room like I’ve returned from some month long trip. He also does not care if my hair is combed or if I am wearing a flannel shirt with striped shorts, I know he loves me and I love him. He also knows when I’m upset too, dogs are funny that way, he is like that really good friend that always says the right thing to match my mood. Obviously pets are not for everyone and they should be thought about long and hard before you make that commitment. Because it is a commitment that you need to honor just like any other long existing relationship like marriage or a job. You need to be there for them to feed them, to clean them, to enjoy them, and to offer companionship.
Obviously I am dog-biased but you don’t have to be, you can consider a cat, a guinea pig, or maybe you just like to visit the monkeys at the zoo! It does not matter! But this Valentine’s Day if you are sick of the purples, pinks, reds and all of the commercialism that goes along with the holiday take a look at the adoption list at your local animal shelter and think about not only changing an animal’s life forever but yours as well. As always thanks for reading! Catch ya on the flip side (or in next month’s Clairemont Times!) Johnny Cantanz E-Mail me questions, comments, or topics you’d like to hear about for next month at: johnny.cantanz@yahoo.com.
Write in or email The Clairemont Times info@clairemonttimes.com or The Clairemont Times PO Box 17671 San Diego, CA 92177
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EMERGENCY NUMBERS LOCAL USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS Sponsored by
EMERITUS at CLAIREMONT SAFETY Police 911 Fire 911
Non emerg 619 531 2000 Non emerg 619 533 4300
TRANSPORTATION MTS iTN On the Go
877 232 7433 619 282 0073 858 637 3000
USEFUL Post Office Sr. Center AARP AAA VA Hospital Social Security Medicaid Alzheimer's Assoc
858 858 619 800 858 800 800 800
273 483 641 400 552 772 541 272
0558 5100 7020 4222 8585 1213 5555 3900
Double S Animal Rescue & Sanctuary Mailing address:
8130 La Mesa Blvd. #426 La Mesa CA 91942-6437 • 619-592-2696 DONATIONS - SPONSORS - VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Temporary physical location is in Ramona We are a 'No-Kill', not-for-profit organization.
Ways to donate... Call 'The Livery Feed Store' in Ramona 1-760-789-5582 Account name - Double S Animal Rescue #20395. You are able to place donations on account. Please notify us if you choose this option. • Walmart Gift cards can be mailed to above address.
Consider sponsoring a "Home 4 Life" animal in our sanctuary program or volunteering by calling 619-592-2696. The following animals our accepted in our program... Horses, burros, donkeys, goats/sheep, pot-belly pigs, Emus, chickens,roosters, ducks, geese, peacocks, cats, and occasionally dogs. We attempt to work with other rescues to help you to place your animal or adopt a new pet. Please call for additional information.
SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR THE RESCUE INCLUDE... Horse blankets, lead ropes, halters, brushes, horse supplies Bedding, blankets, towels etc for cats and dogs Dog and cat carriers and crates of all sizes Chain-link fencing and gates Corral panels HAY, CAT & DOG FOOD PLEASE CALL FOR DELIVERY OR PICK UP
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FEBRUARY LIBRARY EVENTS North Clairemont Branch 4616 Clairemont Drive, 92117 858-581-9931 Family Yoga 2/8/2012 (2nd Wednesday of the month), 3:30-4:30pm Did you know yoga teaches children patience and selfconfidence? Come to a free class and try it out! Best suited for ages 3-8 with caregiver, but all ages are welcome. Please note program time has changed to 3:30pm. (All Ages) Friends of the North Clairemont Library Book Sale 2/11/2012, 9:30am-2:00pm Visit the North Clairemont Library’s monthly book sale, held on the second Saturday of each month, for an expanded selection of books and movies at excellent prices. All proceeds benefit the North Clairemont Library. For more information, call the Library at (858) 581-9931. North Clairemont Library Book Club 2/15/2012, 6:00-7:00pm Be a part of North Clairemont Library’s Book Club! For our February meeting, we will be discussing East of Eden by John Steinbeck. All adults are welcome to attend
BabySign Storytime 2/11/2012, 2/18/2012, 2/25/2012, 10:30-11:15am BabySign Storytime with Jennifer Duncan uses the excitement & fun of signing to enhance the reading of wellloved children’s picture books. This interactive presentation also includes sing-a-longs and bubble time and ends with a Question and Answer period. Geared toward ages 03 with caregiver. Takes place every Saturday EXCEPT the first Saturday of the month.(Children) Tax Assistance 2/2/2012, 2/9/2012, 2/16/2012, 2/23/2012, 12:004:00pm AARP Tax-Aide 2012. Walk-In Only. No appointments. Beginning February 2nd through April 12th. Available every Thursday. (Adults)
Balboa Branch
ADULT BOOK CLUB MEETS Wednesday 2/1/12 6:00 pm Members will discuss The Psychopath Test: a Journey Through the Madness Industry, by Jon Ronson, and pick up the book for the next meeting, Wednesday March 7th at 6:00 p.m. Meetings will occur at the library. Please read the book before the meeting. Books are available at the circulation desk. MONTHLY AFTER SCHOOL ART CLASS Wednesday 2/1/12 4:00pm Free art class for children ages 6-12 Robert, the instructor, is a self taught local artist born and raised in San Diego. He has always had a love for nature and animals and wanted to portray them through art. He enjoys painting on many different types of objects i.e. sea shells, rocks, wood, crafts, canvas and murals.
4255 Mt. Abernathy Ave, 92117 16 and UP! Adult Program If you are 16 or older come join us for an evening of earring making. All material provided, just bring your creativity. Please call the library or come in to sign up for the class. Family FunTime February 10th 3:30-4:30p.m. Preschool Story Time with Susan Wednesdays in February 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 6:00pm-7:00pm The Balboa Branch Library hosts a story time every Wednesday evening at 6pm for children ages 2-5 and their caregivers. Come join us!
and participate. Please read the book beforehand. Copies of the book are available at the front desk while supplies last.(Adults)
Clairemont Branch 2920 Burgener Blvd, 92111
Infant Story Time Fridays in February 3,10,17,24 10:30am-11:00am We have added a story time for our littlest patrons. Come and enjoy a relaxed story time where children will sing, learn finger plays and have books read out loud!! Arabic Story Time Fridays in February 3,10,17,24 4pm
Barbershop Quartet Concert 2/28/2012, 6:30-7:30pm Are you a barbershop music fan? If so, you don’t want to miss this free evening concert! Local group “Tuesday Night Alibi” is sure to entertain with their repertoire of popular standards sung in finely tuned four-part harmony. The quartet’s timeless music has received rave reviews since they began performing in San Diego in 1993.(Adults)
Children’s Story Time Saturdays in February 4,11,18,25 11:30am 12:00pm The Balboa Branch Library has added a children’s story time every Saturday morning for ages 1-4 and their caregivers. Come join the fun. Listen to stories, sing and learn finger plays.
Storytime for Toddlers & Preschoolers Thursdays in February 2,9,16,23 10:30am The library hosts Storytime for Toddlers & Preschoolers on Thursday mornings for children and their caregivers. This interactive storytime includes fun books, songs, rhymes, movement, and lots of smiles. (Children)
Craft Times Saturdays in February 4,11,18,25 12:00pm-1:00pm The Balboa Branch Library has added craft time for everyone. All you need to provide is the laughter and fun. No registration required.
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY MEETING Wednesday 2/15/12 6:30pm The Friends support the library through book sales, volunteering, and planning events. Everyone is welcome. EMOTIONAL FREEDOM TECHNIQUES Friday, 2/3/12 12:00-1:00pm Based on the premise that unresolved emotions can compromise our potential for happiness, EFT began as an effective remedy for phobias, addictions and war trauma. Vietnam Vets were finally able to sleep at night, smokers could choose fresh air, and paralyzing phobias lost their grip...all without medication! GAME DAY THURSDAYS 4:00-5:30pm Games include Sorry, Battleship, Candyland, Yahtzee, Monopoly, Chess, Checkers, Backgammon, Mancala, and Quiddler Deluxe. This program is appropriate for ages 3 and up, no sign-up is required. Homework Help for Grades K-12 Tuesdays 6:30pm8:00pm Homework help for students, grades K-12,Tutors are adult volunteers, and no sign-up is required. Career Vision Workshop February 28th from 1pm5pm Jamie Beck will demonstrate how to find a job based on each one’s interests, using out-of-the-box search strategies. This workshop will be very helpful to career changers, people who were laid-off and are seeking employment, people looking for their first jobs, new graduates, and so on. STORY TIMES The Clairemont Library offers free programs for children and their families several times a week. On Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m. the library hosts a story and craft time for all ages, with storyteller and crafter Miss Nancy. Thursday mornings at 10:30 a.m. the library presents “BabySign Storytime,” a storytime with sign language for children ages 0-2 and their caregivers, with storyteller and sign language instructor Jennifer Duncan. Friday mornings at 10:30 a.m. will be Preschool Storytime with Miss Fran. Saturday mornings at 10:30 a.m. will be an All Ages Storytime with Miss Barbara. Starting in March, the 4th Saturday of each month will be at the Tecolote Nature Center.
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Where to pick up the The Clairemont Times ACE HARDWARE ALBERTSONS AAA BALBOA LIBRARY BAY HO VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTER BAYSIDE COMMUNITYCENTER BEST WESTERN BARBER SHOPS CADMAN PARK & REC CENTER CAFFE VICINO BY THE BAY CAR STEREO CITY CENTURY 21 CHILI’S CLAIREMONT CAR WASH CLAIREMONT CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP CLAIREMONT HIGH SCHOOL CLAIREMONT LIBRARY CLAIREMONT LIQUOR CLAIREMONT LUTHERAN CHURCH COCO’S COUNTRY WAFFLE CVS DENNY’S DISCOUNT TIRE ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS EL REY TACO SHOP EMERITUS at CLAIREMONT
EZ LUBE FAST FUEL SERVICE STATION FIRST CHOICE PROPERTIES FOOD 4 LESS GENESEE CAR WASH GINO’S SHOE REPAIR GREAT AMERICAN STORAGE THE HUNGRY STICK JACK IN THE BOX JIMBO’S LIQUOR KEIL’S KITCHEN 4140 KRISPY KREME DONUTS LAUNDROMATS LINDA VISTA LIBRARY LIVEWELL SAN DIEGO MADISON HIGH SCHOOL MASSAGE ENVY McDONALD’S MESA COLLEGE MIDDLE SCHOOLS NORTH CLAIREMONT LIBRARY O’REILLY AUTO PARTS PAPA’S PIZZA PAR LIQUOR PATHWAY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP PETCO
PETER D’S PETLAND GROOMING PLAYERS SPORTS BAR POSTAL ANNEX RALPH’S RJ LIQUOR RESIDENCE IN MARRIOTT SAN DIEGO HARLEY DAVIDSON SANDWHICH EMPORIUM SIESEL’S MARKET SKYBOX SMART & FINAL SPROUTS SHOPPING PLAZA STARBUCKS STARSHINE MARKET SUBWAY TECOLOTE CANYON NATURAL PARK AND NATURE CENTER TECOLOTE GOLF COURSE THE LIQUOR BOX THE WATERING HOLE TROY’S FAMILY RESTAURAT UPS STORES VONS 99 CENT STORE
Religious Directory Clairemont Lutheran Church www.clairemontlc.org 4271 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92117 Sunday Worship Times 8:00, 9:15, 10:15 & 11:30 AM (En Espanol) Clairemont Christian Church 4330 Moraga Ave, San Diego, CA 92117 Phone (858) 273-5066 Dr. Harvey Daniel Moore, Pastor Sunday Worship/Sunday School Time: 10:30 AM Bible Study: Thursdays 7:00-8:30
Clairemont Christian Fellowship www.clairemontchristianfellowship.org 4570 Mt. Herbert Ave, San Diego, CA 92117 Phone (858) 278-2433 Sunday Worship Times 10:30 AM & 6:00 PM Sunday Church School 9:00 AM Pathway Christian Fellowship www.pathwayonline.org 3811 Mount Acadia Blvd, San Diego, CA 92111 Phone (858) 277-3027 Join us Sundays at 10 AM
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District 6 News/Events
Caffe Vicino Now Open in Bay Park NAME: ADDRESS: HOURS:
Caffe Vicino By The Bay 2615 Denver St, 92110 M-F 6:30am-2pm Sat & Sun 7am-1 pm
ABOUT THE BUSINESS: A new, neighborhood cafe with seating for over 20 has recently opened for business. Caffe Vicino Serves organic, microroasted coffee from La Jolla's own Bird Rock Coffee Roasters. Food offerings include pastries, healthy snacks, oatmeal and sandwiches.
Located at the intersection of Denver & Ingulf, a half block South of Clairemont Drive and two blocks North of Morena Blvd, Caffe Vicino is a welcome addition to the neighborhood. Caffe Vicino accepts all major credit cards, has free Wi-Fi and plenty of parking.
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Why the EIC is G-R-E-A-T for Clairemont In the energy efficiency industry this is the place to be and the people will be coming to Clairemont. With all that the SDG&E Energy Innovation Center (EIC) has to offer through tours, seminars and demonstrations of the latest, greatest and greenest technology diverse groups and industries will be coming to our neighborhood on a regular basis. Clairemont is not only on the map in the industry we are the destination. The EIC is obviously great for the energy efficiency industry, but on a local level it is phenomenal exposure for our commu-
nity, especially the stores and businesses located directly in the Diane Shopping Plaza and the Clairemont Mesa corridor. When professionals such as builders, architects, and designers are looking to go green, or even greener, no doubt the research will lead them here. The ideas, technology and concepts of the EIC will no doubt impact future construction projects both locally and nationally. The restaurant industry will also benefit greatly from the EIC. As restaurants and schools are looking for more ways to become greener and to work in smaller
more efficient kitchens the EIC will be the place to learn about such advancements. Anyone who wants ideas or inspiration on how to conserve energy or live a greener lifestyle can take a tour and learn a few ideas. The doors are open. This is a win win positive impact for Clairemont. Do not take my word for it go and see for yourself. The Center is open to the public Monday-Friday from 8-5. For more information visit sdge.com/eic.
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Left Behind • A Local Perspective By Jared Riddle Being one of 10 kids has been the source of many adventures in my life. Nightly, there was competition to get a large enough portion of the entree and dessert. Trying to find a quiet spot was a near impossibility which led to long spells in the bathroom, (not what you think) and at times I had to escape to the roof for a reprieve from the chaos. Every once in a while, if we would go somewhere as a family one of us would get left behind. “Okay, head count”, my mom would call, and one of the older siblings would be responsible for calling back the number that had piled into our station wagon. It was a flawed system though. If a friend had joined the ranks, the numbers would jive just fine even though one was left behind. When I was 6, I was the one left behind. Now don’t think badly of my
mom for this was terrifying for her. For the rest of us it was something we got used to. On this occasion, my dad was playing a church softball game, and the whole brood went to watch. While he was playing, the other kids and I headed up to the playground and had a great time. Due to the combination of my being what my family referred to affectionately as “pokey” and “easily distracted”, I both heard Mom calling and didn’t, then as I was walking to the car I decided I had time for one more go on the swings. Hours later, I headed down to find that the field was deserted. Figuring I had to fend for myself, I started walking. After all, I’d seen the way my parents drove to get here and was pretty sure I could make it the 10 miles back to our house. So I headed out. I got up to Ruffin Road a block south of the Police Station
and some good Samaritans noticed me. I can only imagine what they thought. They came walking up, “Hey buddy. You lost?” What? Was I a dog or something? Were they about to give me a treat and rub my belly? “Where are your mom and dad?” “They, went home and fow-got me.”. At this point I hadn’t grown out of my speech impediment. All my Rs were Ws, which wouldn’t have been such a big deal if my name were say, John Smith or Stephen Hawking Jared Riddle though, becomes Jaywed Widdow. Yeah, the Ls got the W too. “You really shouldn’t be walking out on this busy street by yourself.” “It’s ok; I know how to get to my house.” I was very precocious. “What’s your name?” “Jay-Wed.” “Hi, Jaywed, I’m Thomas, and this is Harvey.” I admit, I don’t really remember their names, but Thomas and Harvey seem liked good dudes. “Do you know your last name?” “Widdow” At this point, one of them headed home to grab a phone book and look up my last name to try and call my parents. Before smart phones with data plans, that’s just how it was done. I know, barbaric isn’t it?
One of them stayed with me on the street, while the other looked furiously through the phone book for Widow, then Weddle, then Whittle. I had no clue that they were trying to give my parents a call until Harvey brought the phone book back to Thomas. “I’ve called every Weddle, Whiddle, Woodrow ... everything. No one has or knows a Jaywed. Is it possible he doesn’t know his last name?” I was offended. I knew my name. Then recognizing the phone book, I finally offered the answer to the one question they didn’t ask, “My phone numbow is 2787147 and my pahwents ahhw Judy and Ben” Had they bothered to ask, I could have told them my grandparent’s names, the spelling of my last name, my address, each of my siblings names and their birthdays, but they never bothered. My parents got the call, and while they didn’t admit it at the time, they hadn’t even realized I wasn’t home. I made it home safe but, if a lesson can be learned from this experience, I guess it’s that speaking in a way to be understood, and asking for clarification are keys to communication. Another lesson could be that Clairemont in the 80’s was a great place to lose a kid.
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A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE CLAIREMONT ART GUILD he Clairemont Art Guild (CAG) began in 1954 when four women met to discuss ways of furthering art in the community of Clairemont. Their first art exhibit was held inside a local dry cleaner. Their creative energy has infused the CAG ever since. In January of 1986 the Guild was incorporated. In April of 1987 it became non-profit. The CAG holds monthly meetings in the Holy Cross Lutheran Church on Clairemont Drive, presenting demonstrations lectures and critiques by community artists and teachers to educate our members and the public. No fees are charged for attending these meetings. Exhibits by credentialed CAG members are held in libraries and public buildings. We have also shown art at the Clairemont Garden Shows, and in the windows of Clairemont Town Square. The CAG has had a long association with Mesa College Art Department. Scholarships are awarded each year to outstanding student artists at Mesa. This is the first art contest most of these students
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ever enter, and we are proud to provide a safe venue for them. We also award teen scholarships to student artists at the San Diego County Fair, choosing from 11th and 12th grade entrants. CAG has always had a relationship with the Clairemont Recreation Center, where we used to hold our meetings. Inside the South Clairemont Recreation Center is a permanent tile collage created by the CAG. The Community Fountain Wall Project outside the center was completed in 1994 and was a co-operative effort of the Clairemont Art Guild, the South Clairemont Recreation Center, and the Art Department of Mesa College. The result was a beautiful handmade ceramic tile wall around the fountain at the South Clairemont Recreation Center, which still brings pleasure to the community. The purpose of the CAG has always been to provide for the advancement of creative arts in the community, and for the individual growth of artists through association with the Guild. By Catherine MacDonald
Local Art Demonstration O
n Saturday, February 18th the Clairemont Art Guild will welcome Guest Artist Minnie Valero. She will demonstrate Watercolor painting on Yupo paper. Minnie received her Bachelor’s Art degree at the Universidad de Cordoba, Argentina and her Master of Arts in Education at UCLA. She divides her time as an art instructor at the Les Amies de Arts de Verfeil in Mariposa • By Gary Dyak France and as a pastel demonstrator for the United Society of Pastel Artists. Guests and new members are welcome to attend the free monthly meetings on the third Saturday of each month from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The group meets in the Recreation Building behind the Holy Cross Lutheran Church located at 3450 Clairemont Drive. Monthly meetings usually include information about community events of interest, helpful critiques of member’s artwork and works in progress, as well as lecture demonstrations by guest artists. Please visit the CAG website: www.clairemontartguild.com for information concerning our group and membership opportunities.
Happy • By Barbara Bartosik
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San Diego, how I love thee, let me count the ways... I want to focus this month’s column on the wonderful fact that we live here in San Diego, quite positively one of the best places on Earth! Our proximity to the Pacific Ocean cannot be overstated. Okay, let’s not kid ourselves, Clairemont isn’t exactly La Jolla, but should La Jolla fall off into the ocean at some point, (and some people predict it will,) we’re right there on the ocean, primed and ready to enjoy the beautiful vistas. And even if LJ doesn’t fall off, we’re only a short drive away. I cannot tell you how many times I’ve driven along the coast and am just mesmerized by how beautiful and vast the Pacific is, and how lucky we are to see this view any time we want. It makes me sad when I have to travel for work as I don’t like leaving the family and it’s hard to fly away from the sunshine, but I take comfort in the fact that when the trip is over, I get to come back to this great city that I call home. For those travelers out there, wouldn’t you agree that San Diego Airport is such an easy airport to get in and out of. I think that also warrants recognition as a positive aspect of SD. The sunshine is a no-brainer when it comes to one of the bonuses of living here in San Diego. Many people pay a premium to travel somewhere warm for the winter, and for us it’s right outside our window. And know I have to mention my favorite topic, the food! The Mexican food in San Diego is delicious. I love carnitas tacos, carne asada burritos, chicken rolled tacos, carne asada fries, fish tacos, ceviche and the list goes on. Whatever your Mexican food inclination, there’s a taco shop waiting for you. It’s just wonderful. I still remember my first introduction to Mexican food. It was during elementary school and I convinced my parents to let me buy lunch from school. It was enchila-
da day. The cheese enchilada was a taste I’d never experienced before and the Mexican rice was so good, I couldn’t get enough. And so began a life-long love affair with Mexican food. Don’t get me wrong though, I am an EOE (equal opportunity eater). I love the accessibility of good Asian food in Kearny Mesa, Linda Vista and El Cajon or a selection of Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Korean, Thai or Vietnamese food. Whether it’s panang curry over rice or a hot bowl of ramen, I know where I can go to satisfy my cravings. I love that San Diego is home to good ethnic restaurants. And of course, for the Italian food lovers, you all know about Little Italy. If you haven’t been there, check it out. The cafes and eateries are run by Italians (born in Italy) who want to share their culture and cuisine with San Diegans. Don’t leave without trying some gelato! Shifting gears away from my stomach and now to my heart, for those with kids or pets or both, San Diego is a haven for families. The beautiful weather (which I know I’ve mentioned already) is so conducive to outdoor activities. If you knew me well, you would know that I’m not your typical REI customer, but I do know that being outside is good for the soul and when you’ve got a dog that needs exercise, living near the canyons and dog beaches is nothing short of convenient. With kids, the proximity to Sea World, the Zoo and Legoland are unbeatable. Just think that families elsewhere save up their vacation time and money to take their families out here while we can enjoy one of these parks on any given day. And for those days when you
don’t want to spend money and/or you don’t have enough time, a short stint at the local park will put a smile on any kid’s face just to be out and about, see-sawing, sliding, swinging or playing in the sand. Could it get any better than that?! My husband doesn’t think that a city can be considered a legitimate city unless it has at least one professional sports team. Well, San Diego currently has two pro teams. (It’s a good thing we don’t have a NBA team as we would have missed half of this season anyway). Granted the teams we do have are rather lackluster, it’s still a good excuse to socialize and root for the home team. And for those into college sports, you can take your pick of any of the three universities to watch young ath-
letes play and compete in a sport they love. I wish I could say I was born and raised here, but I would be lying. And come to think of it, I personally would not appreciate all that is San Diego if I had not lived in other places before settling down here. (If you must know, I followed a guy and fortunately, it all worked out, but I digress...) I am fortunate to live, work and raise a family here. And it would not nearly be as great a place if it weren’t for the friends we’ve met while living here. So, when work gets stressful and life gets too busy, I’m going to take a breath, look out the window and count the reasons why life ain’t so bad here in San Diego. Stella Mond
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Contact Bal-Gen Management, Eddi Johnson 858-277-1818 The Clairemont Times is published the 1st Monday of every month. Copyright ©The Clairemont Times/McSierra Publishing. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any format without the expressed written consent of McSierra Publishing. The opinions in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of McSierra Publishing but instead that of each individual author.
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Pet Profile
Zoey Breed F/Spaniel Mix DOB 2/14/2010
Chii
Place of Birth Bonita, CA Likes Fetching & going to the park Dislikes Sleeping on the floor
Sandy
Breed F/Yorkie/Maltese Date of Birth 7/3/2010
Breed F/White Shepherd
Place of Birth San Diego
Place of Birth Arizona
DOB 10/8/2000
Likes Going on outings, Squeaky toys, Carrots, Dog Beach, & Giving Kisses
Likes Playing with other dogs, cuddling & stuffed animals
Dislikes Firecracker sounds, the vacuum cleaner, rain
Dislikes The vacuum & being alone
Would you like your pet profiled in an upcoming issue? If so, email the basics and a picture to: info@clairemonttimes.com
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Real Estate
Clairemont Mesa Education Foundation
HOLE IN ONE RECOGNITION Did you hit one? Want to brag in the paper about it. Send us the date, the course, the hole, what club & your witness, note must have taken place after 10/1/11 email to: info@clairemonttimes.com SUBJECT: HOLE IN ONE
Clairemont Community of Schools Foundation is seeking individuals committed to the needs of children and our Clairemont schools. We are in the process of forming a foundation to support the Clairemont Community of Schools. In order to successfully create this Foundation, we are looking for members to work through the logistics. The foundation board should be representative of many different sectors in the community. If you have experience with foundation work, please consider helping in whatever capacity you are able. To form the first board of directors, we will need a minimum of two committed members. The available positions are: Treasurer– The treasurer will be responsible for overseeing all financial matters while developing the founda-
tion. Your primary responsibilities will include: be in contact with the three Planning Committee members to navigate the development and implementation of the foundation. We would prefer a CPA or someone with extensive accounting experience. The anticipated time commitment will be 2 hours a week. Secretary– The secretary will help the treasurer and chair navigate the logistics of establishing the foundation. Your primary responsibilities will be to familiarize yourself with the foundation process and push the process forward. We would prefer someone who has experience working with a foundation. The anticipated time commitment will be 2 hours a week. If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Julee Jenkins (julee.jenkins@gmail.com).
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Images from Clairemont Hilltoppers Little League Tryouts