November 9, 2023

November 9, 2023

Volume 53 - No. 45

An American in Italy

Long, long time ago there was a gent who was quite the yarn-spinner. A great story-teller. A brilliant writer, wise beyond his years. Probably one of the best writers that ever lived.

His name was Samuel Clemens.

You and I know him better by his pen name . . .”Mark Twain.”

During his brilliant career one of the most memorable writings was “A Tramp Abroad,” a series of articles about different cities in Europe that he visited and commented upon.

I have discovered a modern day version of Mark Twain in the person of Sean Dietrich, also known as “Sean of the South.” Sean captures the American Way of Life . . . primarily in rural southern America but also from larger cities such as Birmingham, Alabama where he and his beautiful wife, Jamie, now live.

I love his stories and publish them from time to time in The Paper. He reminds me a great deal of Twain.

He is a remarkable wordsmith and is able to paint wonderful, and often

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amusing, word pictures.

By Sean Dietrich

He, like me, loves dogs and has adopted a blind one. He is also a Godfather to a blind girl named Becca.

He manages to tug at the old heartstrings.

I don’t publish his writings as often as I’d like as his stories tend to be short . . . 500 to 750 words. I’d like to see something between 2500 and 4000 words as a cover story . . . but he’s so good at short stories I hate to divert him. (Short stories, it is said, are the most difficult to write.

He has it down to a fine art).

Dearest Becca I am writing this shortly before boarding an airplane and flying 40,000 feet above the earth. I am about to leave the country, and I wanted to write before I go.

It’s funny, I’ve been humming the song “You Are My Sunshine” all day, thinking about you. This is a song people in my family sing to the people they love. Actually, the song is official code for “I love you.”

Italy

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The Paper • Page 2 • November 9, 2023

Italy from page 1 I remember when my mother sang it to me. I remember when I first sang it to my wife. I remember when my wife’s dying mother sang it to us only minutes before she passed.

Speaking of death. Soon, Jamie and I will be seated in the rear of the aircraft. We will be flying Livestock Class, where passengers are forced to ride with chickens in their laps. We do this because I am a writer, and writers do not make a lot of money.

For the next several weeks I’ll be in Italy, celebrating my wife’s 50th birthday. I’ve never left the country before, so it will be the most uniquely disorienting experience of my life except for the brief period I worked as a telemarketer. We will also be eating a lot of pasta in Italy.

So when I return I will be fat.

But the reason I’m writing is because your mother said you were a little depressed because I’m leaving you.

I know you have a history of people leaving you, Becca. I can’t pretend to know what that’s like. But I know it has left a bad taste in your mouth.

You are 11 years old, and have already experienced more trauma than most humans ever will. You were born to biological parents who

Give Us This Day Our Daily Chuckle This week, a compendium of wit, wisdom and neat stuff you can tell at parties. Enjoy!

25 lessons from my Dad 1. TO APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE .

‘If you’re going to kill each other, do it outside. Mom just finished cleaning.’

2. RELIGION. ‘You better pray that will come out of the carpet.’

3. TIME TRAVEL .

‘If you don’t straighten up, I’m going to knock you into the middle of next week!’

4. LOGIC. ‘ Because I said so, that’s why.’

abused drugs. You were placed into the Great American Foster Pinball Machine before you were adopted by two loving parents.

You’ve endured heart surgeries, lymphadenectomies, ear surgeries, eye surgeries, and the list goes on.

Then you lost your vision, and now you’re learning how to be blind.

But do you know what?

You can’t lose me. Not even if you tried.

I met you on a cold November day that will remain engraved upon my heart. You were holding your white cane. You hugged me tightly. You were so short you barely came up to my belly button. And it was the dawn of a friendship that would leave me a changed man.

My life is not the same as it was before. Because now my life has you in it. The time I spend with you is pure rapture, too rich to be described with a pen. You paint my soul with love. You make me want to be a better human.

My own childhood was miserable, Becca. I don’t mean to be melodramatic, but I grew up in a severely broken home, riddled with abuse, mental illness, and sadness.

By age 16, I told myself I would never bring a child into this world because this place was too cruel. I didn’t want to ruin a child the way I was ruined. For years, I’ve held true to that promise. I’ve had very 5. MORE LOGIC .

‘If you fall out of that swing and break your neck, you’re not going to get any ice cream.’

6. FORESIGHT. ‘Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you’re in an accident.’

7. IRONY ‘Keep crying, and I’ll give you something to cry about.’

8. The science of OSMOSIS .

‘Shut your mouth and eat your supper.’

9. How to be a CONTORTIONIST. ‘look at that dirt on the back of your neck!’

10. STAMINA. ‘You’ll sit there until all that liver is gone.’

11. WEATHER .

‘This room of yours looks as if a tornado went through it.’

12. HYPOCRISY. ‘If I told you once, I’ve told you a million times. Don’t exaggerate!’

13. THE CIRCLE OF LIFE.

little to do with children. And I thought this was the way it would always be.

But then you came.

I’m not a smart man. I don’t understand how the universe works. But I know that sometimes two random people are meant to find each other on this planet, and when they do, it feels a lot like coming home.

And somehow these two people just know they’ll be in each other’s lives forever. And well, that’s what happened when I met you. I found home.

And while I realize I’m not much to write “home” about, I am here.

Here for you. And I will always be here. All I have is yours. All my possessions. All I know. All my heart. Yours, yours, yours.

I’ll be right here when you’re older, and you’re fed up with me; I’ll be around when you’re a teenager, and you finally discover what a consummate idiot I truly am; I’ll be here when you walk down the aisle, and we in your family circle all insinuate that the groom is not nearly good enough for you.

And even after I am gone from this earth, I’ll still be out there, somewhere, loving you. I’ll love you until the sun burns out. I will love you until the end of the age. I’ll love you even when Alabama is no longer a viable contender for a National Championship.

this letter, long after I am dead and gone—maybe you’ll be having a bad day, or perhaps someone broke your heart, or maybe you’ll be feeling alone, like nobody cares about you—I want you to know something: There is nothing that could kill my love for you. Neither distance, nor time, nor illness, nor pain, nor principalities of hell, nor the void of death itself.

For you are my sunshine.

Eternally yours, ~ Sean Dietrich ****************** A crowded international flight. I am flying to Italy.

I paid an arm and a kidney for these tickets. And we are going to be on this plane for 10 hours. Ten hours is a long time on a plane, but thankfully, the plane is also cramped and miserable. Our section is right by bathrooms.

There are many non-Americans in the cabin with us. In fact, there are hardly any Americans on this flight at all.

There is a passenger behind me, for instance, talking loudly in either Polish, or Russian, or some other spit intensive Slavic language. As a result, my neck, shoulders and

In fact, someday if you re-read

Italy continued on page 3

‘I brought you into this world, and I can take you out.’

‘If you don’t eat your vegetables, you’ll never grow up.’

14. BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION. ‘Stop acting like your mother’

22. My mother taught me: GENETICS. ‘I swear you’re just like your father.’

15. ENVY. ‘There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don’t have wonderful parents like you do.’

16. ANTICIPATION. ‘Just wait until I get home.’

17. the gift of RECEIVING .

‘You are going to get it when you get home!’

18. MEDICAL SCIENCE. ‘If you don’t stop crossing your eyes, they are going to freeze that way.’

19. ESP. ‘Put your sweater on; don’t you think I know when you are cold?’

23. My mother taught me: my ROOTS. ‘Shut that door behind you. Do you think you were born in a barn?’

24. My mother taught me: WISDOM ..

‘When you get to be my age, you’ll understand.’

25. And my favorite: My MOTHER TAUGHT ME ABOUT JUSTICE ‘One day you’ll have kids, and I hope they turn out just like you ***

20. HUMOR. ‘When that lawn mower cuts off your toes, don’t come running to me.’

1. On a Southwest flight (SW has no assigned seating, you just sit where you want) passengers were apparently having a hard time choosing, when a flight attendant announced, “People, people we’re not picking out furniture here, find a seat and get in it!”

21. My mother taught me: HOW TO BECOME AN ADULT .

Chuckles continued on page 14

The Paper • Page 3 • November 9, 2023

Italy from page 2 hair are covered in a fine spray of international saliva.

At one point, I turned around and asked the man to quit spitting on me, but he just spoke something in friendly Spittish. Then he smiled.

“You’re spitting on my neck,” I politely explained.

He smiled and said something foreign.

“Spitting,” I clarified, speaking in fluent hand gestures. “On my neck.

Your sputum. It is on my physical person.”

Thumbs up.

Meantime, there are announcements coming overhead, recited by the flight attendant in rapid-fire Italian. And I’m getting a little nervous because I have been slacking off on studying my basic Italian before this trip. And now I only have 10 hours to become fluent.

So I open my little book of useful phrases and get to work.

Right away, I learn that “buona notte” means “good night.” “Bonjourno,” means “red passenger bus.” And saying “ciao bella” after kissing the tips of your fingers and gesturing happily, is the traditional way of saying, literally, “I am an American tourist.”

There are other useful phrases I learn in my book. Such as, “Non so dove mi trovo,” which means, “I don’t know where I am.”

And “Cosa vuol dire che non esiste il tè dolce?” “What do you mean there is no sweet tea?”

And of course, “Mi stai sputando addosso.” Translated: “You’re spitting on me, sir.”

By Hour Four, our seating section is the most popular spot on the airplane. There is a constant singlefile line waiting to defile the lavatory with unspeakable digestive horrors.

After each passenger bathroom visit our section begins to stink.

It’s as though the altitude has stimulated the lower intestinal tracts of the entire plane. In a few minutes, the plane smells like a portajohn at a bluegrass festival.

Then, the flight attendants says it’s time for dinner.

Thank heaven. We all get excited because we are starving. And if they weren’t going to feed us soon, we were this close to eating members of the crew.

Next, the attendants pass around supper, which consists of little paper bowls of potato gnocchi with carrots and an unidentified brown vegetable.

I’ll admit, I had low expectations for dinner, but I was actually surprised by how truly godawful organic matter could taste. The food was almost impressively bad. This was not just crummy airline food.

This took real effort.

Then the lights dim, and we in the cabin are getting ready for sleep. I recline my chair as far back as it will go: One seventy-third of a micrometer. I try to get some rest.

My wife is out like a candle. So are many other passengers.

But I’m having trouble sleeping inasmuch as there is a passenger across the aisle from me who is shuffling a deck of cards incessantly. Every time I am about to nod off, he snaps the deck loudly, and it sounds like I’m at the blackjack table at the Beau Rivage.

I want to lean over and ask why a grown man is shuffling cards on an international flight in the middle of the night. Is he a professional closeup magician? Is he a sales representative for Bicycle? Is he the main character from a Kenny Rogers song?

I can see the other passengers looking at him. They all wear the same expressions I’m wearing.

We are all having vivid fantasies about throwing this man from the aircraft. But then I would never do that. Not after what I paid for these tickets.

Italy, here we come.

Ciao bella

An American In Venice It is after dark when our train pulls into Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia. We step off the railcar in Venice, onto a platform that is empty, except for a few singing crickets and railway employees on smoke break.

We made a few friends from Nebraska on the train. They are midseventies. Just a few Americans, helping each other through a foreign land.

We all descend the terminal steps.

Our backpacks sit heavy upon our backs, akin to carrying 3-yearolds across Europe. Our bodies are cramped and sore. We have been hopping trains all day like Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Dorks.

Italy continued on page 5

Oodles!

Looking for things to do? Places to go?

Check out Oodles every week for listing of civic and service club meetings, and more!

Have an event you need publicized?

Email it to: Lisa.ThePaper@gmail.com If you submit photos do not embed them. Send them as jpg, tif, or pdf attachments only.

The Paper comes out on Thursdays. Deadline is the previous Friday.

Simple press releases are the best: who, what, where, when, why.

Please no brochures or flyers. Keep it simple You’ll get more ink!

California Retired Teachers Week November 5-11, 2023 Teachers never stop caring...

Retired Teachers Donate more than $39 million Worth of Volunteer Time!

The week of November 5-11, 2023 is California’s 25th annual Retired Teachers Week.

The California Retired Teachers Association urges everyone to find a way to give back to their community. Even with pandemic restrictions still widely in place, last year CalRTA members logged more than one million hours of service in their communities.

That’s worth more than $39 million in services. Anywhere you go in North County Inland you are likely to find retired teacher volunteers.

They tutor in the local schools, distribute food to those in need, drive seniors to appointments and work at hospitals. Since 1998, the California Retired Teachers Association has sponsored Retired Teachers Week as a way to not only spotlight our members’ extensive volunteerism but to encourage others to do the same. We cared about our students and our communities while we worked as educators, and that caring doesn’t stop at retirement! Join our call to give back. You’ll find the effort is well worth your time.

CalRTA, Area XI, Division 63, Publicity Chairperson, Nancy Stone *** LIFE at MiraCosta College 1831 Mission Ave., Oceanside In The Board Room Trailer T200 A Lifelong Learning Group Meetings will be held in person at the MiraCosta College, Oceanside Campus, at 1:00 pm in the Board Room Trailer T200 by the Police Station and by the Internet Application ZOOM. To join a Zoom meeting, LIFE must have your email address in order for you to receive the invite link. Meetings will start at 12:45 pm (you can join 15 minutes earlier) and the speaker will start at 1:00 pm.

Email: life.miracosta@gmail.com Nov 10 NO SESSION – VETERANS DAY HOLIDAY – MCC CLOSED Nov 17 1:00 MCC Dance Reflections 2023 Dave Massey, Artistic Director & MCC Students Come see the diversity of dance, the talent of the incredible student performers and the overall artistry of movement as the MCC Dance Dept gives us an insight into their upcoming presentation.

Nov 17 2:30 El Corazon – The People’s Park Joan Bockman President, Friends of El Corazon. El Corazon is a 465-acre Park in the center of Oceanside. The approved Specific Plan has something for everyone! Visit and enjoy the Park now—before completion!

Nov 25 1:00 NO SESSION THANKSGIVING BREAK To join a Zoom meeting, LIFE must have your email address in order for you to receive the invite link. Meetings will start at 12:45 pm (you can join 15 minutes earlier) and the speaker will start at 1:00 pm.

Email: life.miracosta@gmail.com To Donate to the LIFE Scholarship Fund: Write a check to MiraCosta College Foundation; Mail it to: One Barnard Dr., MS 7; Oceanside, CA 92056. In the memo area put: LIFE Scholarship Fund. Or go to: https:// foundation.miracosta.edu/donatenow and you can donate online.

There is a “drop-down” box to indicate the donation will be credited to the LIFE Scholarship Fund. The QR code below can also be used. *** Escondido Library Events All Library facilities will be closed on November 23 & 24, 2023 for Thanksgiving. The Library will also close at 5:00 p.m. on November 22.

Cultural Fair Series: Afghan Culture & Art November 18 • 2:00-4:30 pm Turrentine Room • All Ages Oodles continued on page 5

The Paper • Page 4 • November 9, 2023

Local News

Palomar Health & North County Realtors are Empowering Communities in the Fight Against Fentanyl “As the community’s hospital, Palomar Health is fostering awareness and encouraging proactive community-driven efforts to combat substance misuse. Safe storage of prescription medications is not just a recommendation from a medical professional; it’s a critical responsibility we all share. Properly securing medications within homes can prevent tragedies and protect our loved ones,” said Diane Hansen, CEO of Palomar Health.

Ensuring proper disposal of excess medications is another essential step in safeguarding our communities. This partnership hopes to raise awareness about safe storage and responsible disposal methods, to empower the community to take action against medication misuse. Bill Richard, Board President for North San Diego County Realtors, says that

realtors can help share that message with homeowners. “Understanding the dangers associated with non-pharmaceutical fentanyl and other medication misuse is crucial. Education is key, and by partnering with Palomar Health to increase awareness, we can save lives and create safer homes and safer communities.”

Through grant funding provided by the State of California, Palomar Health employs two Substance Use Navigators who work directly in the Emergency Rooms, connecting patients and families with resources to treat substance use disorder. “One of the most powerful tools in preventing unintentional overdose deaths is having naloxone readily available in every home. Naloxone can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, providing a critical lifeline until professional

help arrives. By promoting widespread access to naloxone and how to use it, we are empowering communities to act swiftly and to save lives,” said Dr. Bruce Friedberg, Medical Director for Emergency Medicine.

Kristin Gaspar, CEO of Palomar Health Foundation, recognizes the community wants to know what they can do to help. “Our community plays a pivotal role in the fight against substance misuse. By fostering a culture of awareness, support and education, we empower individuals and families to make informed choices. Together, we can create a resilient community that stands united against the challenges of substance use. It is through collective effort and compassion that we can build a safe, healthy and thriving North County.”

Officer-Involved-Shooting Investigation in Escondido On Friday, November 3, 2023, at approximately 6:40 a.m., Escondido Police received a call stating that a male was sleeping in a sleeping bag on the porch of a mobile home in the 2500 block of East Valley Parkway and he did not belong there. As officers responded, the call was updated to state that the male had now gotten up and was pushing a blue

motorcycle through the mobile home complex.

At approximately 6:50 a.m., two patrol officers from Escondido Police contacted a male matching the description from the radio call pushing a motorcycle inside the complex. They began speaking to him. During the contact, based on the information providflowing locks . . . but stipulated she did NOT want it published in The Paper.

I respected her wishes but publish the following photo of Susie, along with her husband, Bill, and some incredibly handsome and sophisticated,but, elderly gent.

Man About Town This past Saturday, November 4th, was my birthday. 85 years. Where did the time go?

I told Susie Meleka (Charlie Mitch’s daughter and wife of Bill Meleka, all part of the management team at Charlie’s Restaurant) that for my birthday present I wanted her to let her hair down so I could see it long. Susie is one of the ten most beautiful women on earth, uses no makeup (doesn’t need it; she’s a natural beauty) and normally wears her hair with a bun/ponytail. She promised she would and kept that promise . . . but she had a photo taken of her at home with

•••• I am probably one of the most active publicists for the Veteran’s Administration you’re gonna find.

I constantly rave about them to friends and famnily. I’ve transferred about 95% of my medical service to them as they have treated me like royalty with top notch medical care and procedures.

Having said that, I am VERY upset with the VA Administration of-

ed by the male, they learned he had a felony warrant for a parole violation out of Indiana.

As officers began to detain the male, he turned and began to run. He also began reaching into his waistband. The male then

Letters to the Editor To Mr. Huls: The last paragraph I disagree with.

The Bible does not say that the earth will burn in a fire. That would be against the understanding of the total scriptures. God’s promise for the earth is to turn it into a paradise that Adam had but forfeited by his selfless actions.

The lake of fire is symbolic and it also will be destroyed. The Kingdom of Jesus is one that will erase all mankind’s governments which hurt and kill many today. NO more food shortages, war, sickness and most important death. Teach the love of God and his Christ not scare tactics.

Fire is symbolic to hell.

Local News continued on page 9

Letters continued on page 14

ficers for a new policy that makes no sense at all.

just like me, some worse. That shouldn’t be.

Until June 30th of this year you could drive your car to a Shuttle Station on the large La Jolla parking lot, park, hop on board a large golf cart shuttle and they would transport you to the front door; when finished with your medical appointments they returned you to your car. This service was primarily used by disabled veterans, of which I am one.

After my medical appointment I tried to return to my car but couldn’t make it. I asked a very nice lady who was parked in the garage, waiting for a patient, if she could drive me and help me get to and find my car, stuck somewhere on the 2nd floor of this garage.

Bless her heart, she had me jump in and after about five minutes of searching, we found my car and I was able to head home.

Then the contract for the parking service ended on June 30th. Now, disabled veterans have to park their car in the covered garage and walk the entire distance to the hospital facility.

The disabilities did not end on June 30th. There’s no reason the shuttle service should have ended.

Last week I was forced to walk about one city block to get to the hospital entrance. Doesn’t sound like a long distance . . . but if you have a disability, it is. I was huffing and puffing, had to stop 3 or 4 times to rest and catch my breath. There are other veterans

That shouldn’t be.

Shame on the hospital administrator that made this decision.

Your disabled American Veterans deserve more than this!

No complaints about the medical service. It is top notch, thoroughly professional and courteous ... and prompt.

But fix this parking snafu and return the patient parking shuttle!

Man About Town continued on page 14

The Paper • Page 5 • November 9, 2023

Italy from page 3 But we all soon forget our misery.

Because as we exit the station, we are greeted by incredible streetlights.

“Wow,” say our friends from Nebraska.

“Wow,” say we Alabamians.

The street lights in Venice are not like American lights. In the US, outdoor public spaces largely adhere to a strict design style that could be loosely defined as Adult Correctional Facility. The buzzing fluorescent lights found in, say, a Walmart parking lot, glow harshly white, bringing to mind your last appendectomy.

Whereas the streetlights in Venice are the color or flickering torches. Orange light is reflected in the mirrored water, Van Gogh-like, rippling beneath city sidewalks.

Then, a gondola passes beneath us. The gondolier is a young man, scrawny, working the stern of his flat-bottomed boat, singing for the tourists. The song he sings, a capella, is “Paradise by the Dashboard Light” by Meatloaf.

Not exactly what you’d expect from your typical Venetian, but hey.

We all walk around the city.

There are ornate archway bridges everywhere—435 bridges to be exact. Venice is a town made up of 118 islands, so there are lots of bridges. Each bridge has a name. And most bridges predate the Boston Tea Party.

The bridge we are standing on, for example, is Ponte de Rialto, built in 1173.

And all this history makes you feel silly, as an American. Because before today, the oldest attraction you and the Nebraskans have ever seen was Dollywood.

Will our American suburban neighborhoods, for example, still be standing in 800 years?

What about shopping malls?

How about Pizza Huts? Do we build anything that will last that long? And if not, why?

We tow our luggage along the cobblestone streets.

We pass a string quartet, playing in a chapel. We stop to listen.

They are college-age musicians, playing Chopin, in G minor, before an audience of a few hundred folks who wear black formalwear.

Meet with successful Afghan professionals, enjoy Afghan live music and dance, and learn about Afghan women’s clothing. Create your own traditional artwork and visit the professional Afghan artwork exhibition. ½ Price Sale in the Friends Bookshop November 17 & 18 All items in the store 50% OFF marked price (25¢ minimum) Only cash payment accepted.

The young musicians, we learn, are from the poorest parts of South America. The kids have struggled their entire lives to fund their own musical educations.

They have scrimped, worked, and suffered. They have come from nothing. Lived in squalor.

And now they are performing in Venice. You can’t help but taste their dreams coming true.

All events generously sponsored by the Friends of the Escondido Public Library

Meantime, across the street are a few dozen American college kids. They wear UCLA sweatshirts, playing on phones, vaping, clearly drunk, shouting and harassing passersby.

No guest fee for this meeting. This is a special meeting of El Camino Guild. Sher DeWeese (TIP Trauma Intervention Program), Samantha Holt (Camp Pendleton ASYMCA), and Shaeli Chapman (Foundation for Women Warriors) will each give 10 minute presentation on their organizations, their missions, and how our donated quilts help them.

The polizia are called. The UCLA kids tell the cops to “[Bleep] off!” The cops do not bleep off.

They end up asking the American kids to keep moving along.

This all happened directly in front of our hotel. Which is why our hotelier has been watching the ordeal in mock disbelief.

Then the hotelier notices us. His face lights up.

“Welcome to Venice!” says the hotelier.

He looks like Santa Claus, and he is so friendly he makes Zorba the Greek look like a jerk.

We make our way to our hotel via motorboat. The captain tells us it’s 70 Euros to get there.

I’m actually surprised by his greeting. Because in my country, many of my people are standoffish, and cold, and if you didn’t know any better you’d think some of people were rude.

Seventy Euros for a 15-minute boat ride? We know it’s highway robbery, but it’s late and there is no other way to our hotel.

“Prego, prego!” the hotelier says, shaking my hand with both of his.

“Where are you all from again?”

We all smile.

We troll gently through the canals, and we see even more street lights.

The lady from Nebraska speaks for the group.

The 800-year-old buildings surrounding the canals are strong, and well-built. And it makes you wonder about the construction of the modern American world.

Escondido Senior Travel Meeting November 13 - 1pm

Oodles from page 3

“We’re from Canada,”she says.

Italy continued on page 12

*** El Camino Quilt Guild meets at 9:30 AM on Tuesday, November 14 2023 at El Corazon Senior Center, 3302 Senior Center Dr. Oceanside 92056.

The Wintertide Market will take place at the last half of the meeting, selling handmade gifts and craft items with all funds going to support our philanthropic efforts around the greater North County San Diego area. There is no workshop.

For more information – elcaminoquilters.com or email info@elcaminoquilters.com. *** Christmas Concert December 2 - 3pm San Dieguito United Methodist Church Encinitas On Saturday December 2 at 3 p.m., San Dieguito United Methodist Church’s Chancel Choir, Bell Choirs, and a Brass Quintet will be featured in a Christmas concert with music old and new.

The church is located at 170 Calle Magdelena, Encinitas 92024. Free admission, donations gratefully accepted. Visit encinitaschurch.com. ***

Escondido Senior Travel’s next monthly meeting is November 13, 2023 at the Park Avenue Community Center at l:00 pm. Upcoming trips are Christmas with Sinatra at Almansor Court, December 7; 2023. Wheel of Fortune, February 22; 2024; Taste of Los Angeles, March 26, 2024 ; Coastal Tour, May 15-17, 2024 ; and Patsy Cline and Johnny Cash presenters June 12, 2024.

The Senior Travel Office is located at the Park Avenue Community Center and is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10:0012:00. *** Barbershop Christmas Concerts The Music Men, North County’s premier a cappella chorus, will present a 90-minute Christmas concert of your favorite holiday tunes, sung barbershop style, at two locations in December. These familyfriendly concerts are a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit and include sing-a-longs. Each performance will also feature guest quartet “Behind The Barn.”Suggested donation, $10. The concerts are as follows: Sunday December 3, 3 pm, at San Marcos Lutheran Church, 3419 Grand Ave. Sunday December 10, 2 pm, at Pilgrim United Church of Christ, 2020 Chestnut Avenue, Carlsbad.

Visit musicmenchorus.org more information.

for

*** Chess at Park Avenue Community Center Wednesdays from noon to 3pm Home of Escondido Senior Center 210 Park Avenue, Escondido Chess players of all skill levels are welcome every Wednesday in the shuffleboard building from Noon to 3 pm. Large boards and pieces provided. Follow the signs or ask at the front desk for directions.

Oodles continued on page 12

The Paper • Page 6 • November 9, 2023

5th District Supervisor

Jim Desmond

Safeguarding Our Communities in the Face of Wildfires In recent weeks, we’ve reveled in the tranquil weather and witnessed the advent of the Santa Ana winds, signaling a heightened risk of wildfires.

While a few blazes have ignited, our gratitude extends to the tireless firefighters who swiftly contained these potentially catastrophic threats.

Throughout my tenure on the Board of Supervisors, fire safety has been an urgent and unwavering priority. Recognizing the pressing need to fortify our region’s defenses against wildfires, we’ve initiated various strategic measures. Our goal has been clear: strengthen preparedness, bolster response mechanisms, and secure the safety of our communities.

A cornerstone of our approach has been developing a comprehensive pre-fire strategy, encompassing the formulation of efficient evacuation routes. These measures are critical in mitigating the impact of wildfires, enabling residents to navigate to safety in times of peril swiftly.

Emphasizing roadside vegetation management along major evacuation corridors has been pivotal. Clearing these areas significantly hampers the rapid spread of fires, creating crucial barriers shielding property and lives.

The pursuit of enhancing firefighting capabilities led to acquiring a twinengine helicopter—a crucial asset in our battle against wildfires. The ability of this aerial asset to operate during nighttime is a significant advantage, allowing for round-the-clock fire suppression efforts precisely

when they are most critical.

Strategic placement and innovative installations have been fundamental in fortifying our firefighting infrastructure. The establishment of a HeloPod at the Rainbow Fire Center in Fallbrook and the installation of a Heli-Hydrant at the San Marcos Fire Department are groundbreaking advancements. These Heli-Hydrants, connected to water sources and portable HeloPods with substantial water capacity, have revolutionized our firefighting capabilities.

These critical assets drastically reduce the downtime for firefighting helicopters, ensuring swifter and more effective fire containment.

The importance of these assets cannot be overstated. They are formidable defenses for our region, fortifying our resilience in wildfires.

Experience has shown that a robust arsenal of resources can be the difference between containment and catastrophe.

The tangible impact of our increased resources is evident in our recent history. Together, we can ensure a fire-safe future for generations to come. The looming threat of wildfires demands our urgent attention and decisive action to fortify our defenses and ensure the safety of our communities.

San Diego County District 5 Supervisor Jim Desmond, 1600 Pacific Highway, #335, San Diego, CA 92101, http:// www.supervisorjimdesmond.com/

A Word from San Marcos Mayor Rebecca Jones

Pumpkin Pies & Turkey Handprints line at www.san-marcos.net/register and search ‘family night.’ Parent supervisor is required. This baking activity is a great way to bring your family together and reflect on what you’re thankful for this year.

No need to search through grandma’s recipes because we’re here to teach you how to make the iconic pumpkin pie dish for this upcoming Thanksgiving dinner, using our family night craft! On Wednesday, Nov. 15 families are welcome to pick up their pumpkin pie baking kit at the San Marcos Community Center, 3 Civic Center Drive, for only $5.

Register each family member on-

More Thanksgiving activities include our monthly pop-up rec, featuring turkey handprints on Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 3 p.m.

Show us your creative side by designing a turkey using your own handprint, while supplies last.

These turkey handprints will be a great addition to your Thanksgiving décor at home. Let the Thanksgiving festivities begin!

For more information, please visit our recreation guide at www.sanmarcos.net/departments/parks-recreation.

Reining in Theft California department stores have been raided by people walking out with thousands of dollars in stolen goods. Los Angeles County, the Central Valley and the Bay Area have been the most impacted, though it’s affecting the entire state.

Why is this happening, what can be done? One of the major contributing causes appears to be passage of Proposition 47 in 2014. Called the “Safe Neighborhoods and Schools Act by its supporters (and who wouldn’t vote for that?), the proposition had the opposite effect.

Prop. 47 downgraded shoplifting and grand theft from felonies to misdemeanors when the stolen property is valued at under $950.

Up to $950 can be stolen every day, but it never adds up to a felony. As a result, many stores in mostly urban areas have been forced to shut down. For example, the zip code containing Union Square in San Francisco, the city’s retail hub, has seen almost 40 retail stores close since 2020. Reasons cited include thefts, and safety concerns for employees and customers.

I have introduced legislation to

crack down on serial shoplifters, and co-authored legislation to repeal Proposition 47 entirely.

Unfortunately, due to the current political climate in Sacramento, these bills never saw the light of day. Now however, with the situation so out-of-control, the tide may be turning.

Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas has announced creation of the “Select Committee on Retail Theft,” which will hold hearings this fall and next year.

The creation of the Select Committee is a step in the right direction. We need to find solutions to the high rates of retail theft that has been impacting our retailers.

I am looking forward to constructive suggestions that will help restore civil order.

Assemblymember Marie Waldron, R- Valley Center, represents the 75th Assembly District in the California Legislature, which includes the cities of Poway, Santee, portions of the City of San Diego, and most of rural eastern and northern San Diego County.

Problem Solved

by Christopher Elliott

I returned my Stella McCartney bag to Saks. Where’s my money?

Julie Kuklenski returned her Stella McCartney cross-body bag to Saks.

But the company won’t return her money. What’s going on?

Q: I ordered a Stella McCartney cross-body bag from Saks.com recently. I made this purchase while Saks was offering a promotion on designer handbags and received $200 off the original price of $950.

I received the wrong bag.

I called Saks, and a representative said that this item was sent from a store and not their warehouse. I received a return label and returned it via FedEx; it was received by the Saks return center.

I called Saks five times after I received the new handbag and finally received an adjustment of $209. I did not love the color (brownish red), as I was looking for a vegan leather handbag in a chocolate brown.

I decided to return the bag, and I did so well within the 30-day window to return from the delivery date.

The tracking shows that the bag was

received by the return center, and I have called several times to check on my refund. A representative promised a refund within 7 to 10 days, but I have not received it. Can you help me get my money back? ~ Julie Kuklenski, Evergreen, Colo.

A: Saks should have sent you the right bag the first time. But I think you confused the company with your exchanges and return. It looks like it started the 30-day clock when it delivered the first bag, not the second one.

I list the names, numbers and email of the Saks customer service executives on my consumer advocacy site, Elliott.org. A brief, polite email to one of them might have cleared things up for you and resulted in a quick refund.

Saks promises its returns are “easy,” and, as you note, it gives you 30 days to return your item. However, it doesn’t specify when the 30 days Problem Solved continued on page 12

The Paper • Page 7 • November 9, 2023

Historically Speaking

The Colonial Merchant Who ‘Rebelled’ against England

by Tom Morrow Let’s go back to the beginning of the United States. Here’s a story the teachers of today probably don’t tell you about in grade or high school.

Back in the late 1700s, John Hancock was a New England merchant who had become rich in the business of importing (and smuggling) goods from England and other global ports, Why? The British heavy taxation without representation drove him into supporting and participating in the American Revolution.

Born Jan. 23, 1737, Hancock was merchant and prominent patriot who served as president of the Second Continental Congress and was the first and third Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

From 1760 to 1761, Hancock lived in England while building business relationships with customers and

suppliers. Upon returning to Boston, Hancock gradually took over his Uncle Thomas’ House of Hancock and in January 1763, became a full partner. He inherited the business and all its land which included three household slaves who continued to work for him. The slaves were eventually freed through the terms of his uncle’s will. There is no evidence that John Hancock ever bought or sold slaves.

Looking for new sources of revenue because the British Parliament sought to directly tax the colonies, beginning with the Sugar Act of 1764. The Sugar Act had provoked outrage in Boston, where it was widely viewed as a violation of colonial rights. Colonial leaders like Samuel Adams argued because the colonists were not represented in Parliament, they could not be taxed by that body; only the colonial assemblies, where the colonists were represented, could levy taxes. Hancock was not yet a political activist; however, he criticized the tax for economic, rather than constitutional, reasons.

Hancock emerged as a leading political figure in Boston as tensions with Great Britain were increasing. In March 1765, he was elected as one of Boston’s five selectmen, an office for many years held by his uncle. Soon after, Parliament

What Is A Reverse Mortgage?

Last time we covered the basics of the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) or Reverse Mortgage. This time, I’d like to talk about how some of my clients have used the reverse mortgage to improve their lives. Perhaps if you see how other people have utilized the loan program, you’ll come to see and understand how functional the reverse mortgage is and how you can personalize it to suit your needs.

A few years ago, I had a client named Judy who lived in Hesperia.

I worked with Judy for two years before she moved ahead with the reverse mortgage program. Judy had a huge hole in her roof. She was very cold in the winter and extremely hot in the summer. Not to mention when it rained! She had been working with the city to obtain special financing for the roof repair. The funding had run out prior to Judy being able to participate for two years in a row.

I was able to show Judy how she could have the reverse mortgage completed in just over a month and have the roof repair completed by the time the loan was completed. We were able to repair the roof, pay off her small mortgage, provide a small monthly advance AND set up a line of credit for emergency use! I remember that she was able to buy herself a new computer and she was so excited!

Judy’s sone was very thankful that his mom was able to enjoy herself again and not worry.

Another couple was very interested in buying a home in Utah to be near their grandchildren. Their home was in Irvine, so they were

goods, which made him popular in Boston .

John Hancock passed the 1765 Stamp Act, a tax on legal documents, such as wills, that had been levied in Britain but was wildly unpopular in the colonies. The Stamp Act triggered riots and organized resistance. Hancock initially took a moderate position: as a loyal British subject, he thought the colonists should submit to the Act, even though he believed that Parliament was misguided.

Within a few months, Hancock had changed his mind, although he continued to disapprove of violence and the intimidation of royal officials by mobs. Hancock joined the resistance to the Stamp Act by participating in a boycott of British able to take out the reverse mortgage and use all that cash to purchase their second home in Utah.

They are thrilled with not having to make a payment for the money used to purchase their second home. And they are close to their children and grandchildren!

What if you’re still working? Do you really want to work or would you just like the flexibility to work when you want?

Larry still loved what he did, but just didn’t want to HAVE to work.

He wanted to work when and IF he wanted. Just a few months ago, Larry used the reverse mortgage to pay off his existing mortgage, establish a line of credit AND he is receiving a monthly advance to add to his monthly income!

The way we structured Larry’s loan is like the trifecta! He gave himself a raise by paying off his existing mortgage, set up a monthly advance to increase his monthly income and set up the line of credit for future use. AND he also took some cash when his loan funded! Larry is very happy with his new found stress free semi-retirement!

Hancock was one of the wealthiest men in the 13 Colonies. Down through history John Hancock had been identified as a smuggler. In 1768 one of his mercantile vessels, the Liberty, loaded with imported goods from England, was confiscated by the British charging him with smuggling, but later the charge was dismissed. The infamous “Boston Tea Party” where patriots dressed as Indians tossed shipments of tea into Boston Harbor was from a ship owned by Hancock. Around that time he began dabbling in politics with the guidance of Samuel Adams, and became an influential local politician.

Not only was there little social stigma attached to smuggling in the colonies, in port cities where trade was the primary generator of wealth, smuggling enjoyed considerable community support, and it was even possible to obtain insurance against being caught.

Colonial merchants developed an impressive repertoire of evasive maneuvers to conceal the origin, Historically Speaking continued on page 14

Don’t forget, the reverse mortgage can be used to purchase a new home also! I recently helped a lady purchase her dream home in San Diego near her son and grandchildren. She had sold her previous home and rented a home in the area for a while to see where she wanted to live. She found the perfect home for her and used the reverse mortgage to purchase her new home. The loan closed in time and she is now happily living in her dream home on the golf course.

Like any loan, there are documentation requirements. Sometimes they can seem daunting, but the end result is a loan that doesn’t require you to make a monthly mortgage payment. That alone is an amazing feature, but add to it that you can take monthly advances, take cash, set up a line of credit that CAN’T be frozen like typical home equity lines of credit, and you have an amazing retirement mortgage!

If you have a reverse mortgage topic that you’d like me to cover, please let me know. And please contact me with any questions or if you would like to explore these options for yourself!

The Paper • Page 8 • November 9, 2023

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Happy Veterans Day Proud to Deal in American Coin & Currency Our Best Wishes for Continued Prosperity America!

Escondido Coin & Loan 241 E. Grand, Escondido 760.745.1697

The Paper • Page 9 • November 9, 2023

Local News from page 4 pulled a firearm from his waistband, pointed it across his body at the officers, and fired multiple rounds. Both of the officers fired multiple times at the male, striking him at least one time. The male fell on the ground next to some bushes. He then rolled over with the gun, again pointing it in the direction of officers, prompting one of them to fire several more rounds at him.

Officers requested additional officers and resources and were able to move forward and take the male into custody. A firearm was located near him. Officers began rendering aid, including CPR, until Paramedics arrived and transported the male to a local hospital. The male was pronounced deceased at the hospital. No officers were injured or struck by gunfire during this incident.

The male has been tentatively identified, but his identity will need to be confirmed by the San Diego County Medical Examiner. He is believed to be a 48year-old White male from Indiana.

The involved officers are both currently assigned to patrol. One

has been employed by Escondido Police for approximately six years. The other has been employed by Escondido Police for approximately one year.

Per the Countywide Memorandum of Understanding, the San Diego Police Homicide Unit was called to the scene to conduct the officer-involved-shooting investigation. Detectives are currently gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and examining the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

The investigation and review process for officer-involved shootings are extremely thorough. When the Homicide Unit completes its investigation, it will be reviewed by the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office to determine if the officer bears any criminal liability for his actions. Escondido Police will conduct an administrative investigation into the officer’s discharge of his firearm. The Federal Bureau of Investigations and the United States Attorney’s Office will also be monitoring the investigation.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call the San Diego Police Homicide Unit at (619) 531-2293 or Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.

The Paper • Page 10 • November 9, 2023

The Pastor Says . . .

God vs. Man How does one interpret the events happening in Israel today concerning the war? There is the social question of blaming someone for not foreseeing all the preparations by Hamas for the war. As has been said by many, “Someone is responsible and is to blame?” Guilt seems to pass on. Of course, even fault-finding won’t change things. There is always the need to place the responsibility on someone’s back. Events don’t just happen without cause.

The bigger question has to do with God for the Jews. It opens Pastor Huls the question of God‘s involvement. Where is God, or where was he? If the belief is that God cares for his people, chooses them, protects them, and loves them, then how does one make sense out of the massacres, rape, destruction, and seemingly the un-attention of God. Each of us can ask that question in our tragedies. Isn’t God the good Shepherd? As it says in Psalm 23,” The Lord is my Shepherd.”

While many, especially in their religious faith, Jew, Christian, or any believer, search for answers, there seems to be an answer to accepting what is however it happens and then doing what one can with the strength of hope, faith, encouragement, and resources to avoid the same mistakes, and even make use of what needs to be for a safer, and even happier future.

San Diego Humane Society’s 2024 Calendar & Events The holidays ahead are full of opportunities to show our loved ones we care — and this includes expressing our love for animals! Whether you’re looking for local events to bring your beloved pet companions to, presents for the awesome animal lovers in your life or the chance to make a difference for homeless pets in our community, this November brings boundless activities and goodies that celebrate our shared compassion for animals.

2024 Calendar They’re here! Our beautiful fullcolor 2024 wall calendars have arrived and we can’t wait for you to see all of the amazing entries from this year’s Photo Fundraiser! These calendars make wonderful holiday gifts for the animal lovers in your life, and all proceeds support our work.

ORDER NOW aat https:// secure.sdhumane.org/site/ Ecommerce?store_id=3482&utm_ medium=email *** Wake Up With Wildlife: Saving California’s Black Bears Saturday, Nov. 18 9:30-11 a.m.

San Diego Campus 5500 Gaines St., San Diego California black bears can face many challenges in the wild, and

young cubs are especially at risk when separated from their mothers. Join this special presentation to learn how the team at our Ramona Wildlife Center rehabilitates injured, orphaned and sick bears, and returns them to their wild homes! *** Crafting for Critters Thursday, Nov. 16 2:30-3:30 p.m.

College-Rolando Branch Library 6600 Montezuma Rd. San Diego Kids are invited to craft special enrichment items for the pets in our care! This is a great way for kids to earn service hours for school and have fun while giving back. No sign-up is required. Simply bring your can-do attitude and passion for animals!

Pet Parade

Pet of the Week

Babadook

Ruby

Babadook is Rancho Coastal Humane Society’s pet of the week. He’s a 7-month-old, 7-pound, male, Domestic Short Hair cat with a Black and White coat.

Babadook was a stray kitten. He transferred to Rancho Coastal Humane Society from Riverside County through Friends of County Animal Shelters (FOCAS.) He gets along well with other cats, and he could probably live with kids as young as eight.

The $100 adoption fee for Babadook includes medical exam, neuter, up to date vaccinations, and registered microchip.

Visit Rancho Coastal Humane Society in Encinitas or log on to www.

SDpets.org. Open 11 to 4, Friday through Monday, and by appointment Wednesday and Thursday.

Meet Ruby, a true gem who is described as a loving and sweet companion! This pup has a playful spirit and an enthusiasm for learning, which makes her ideal for a home interested in training her on new tricks. (You’ll have her full attention with some tasty treats!) If you’re looking for a companion who will join you for new adventures and provide endless affection, she’s your girl! Ruby (848119) is available for adoption at San Diego Humane Society’s Escondido Campus at 3500 Burnet Dr. If you have questions about the adoption process, you can visit sdhumane.org/adopt or call 619-299-7012.

Online profile: https://www.sdhumane.org/adopt/available-pets/animal-single.html?petId=848119

The Paper • Page 11 • November 9, 2023

The Three Things Your Home Needs Nearly a quarter century ago (Y2K) high speed (broadband) Internet became available and the World was quick to take advantage. In addition to smart phones, and PCs we quickly adapted other devices to take advantage of the Internets extensive data base and AI (artificial intelligence). Tablets, smart TVs, game consoles, smart watches, E-book readers, digital cameras, cars, home appliances, and other devices were enhanced with Internet access capabilities.

The Computer Factory

While nearly everyone has a phone and a PC these days, less than 30% of homes have “smart speakers”.

Those three things are a smart phone, a PC and a “smart speaker” AKA “digital assistant”. Most of our customers already use smart phones and PCs but far fewer have stand alone “smart speakers”.

Smart phones and PCs give us access to the Internet and through the Internet we stay in contact with our friends and relatives, shop, pay bills and accomplish an assortment of other common everyday tasks.

Contact with the Internet through these devices also provides access to the accumulated store of nearly all human knowledge. If you know how to frame the question, Internet access through these devices can provide the answer to nearly any question.

We have “Alexa” in our shop and at home we have “Alexa” (living room) and “Hey Google” (bedroom). We love them and use them constantly. Smart speakers cost less than $50 and provide instant full, voice activated access to the Internet. They don’t do anything that can’t be accomplished through your PC or smart phone but instant voice activation makes them easy and fun. For example, Nome can get the time temperature and weather forecast without lifting her head off her pillow in the morning. Your smart speaker can give you the driving distance and estimated travel time between Paducah Ky. and Gravel Switch Ky. in seconds. Want to know how many electrons inhabit the outer shell of the Plutonium Atom or what is the deepest point in the Indian Ocean?

Your “smart speaker” also knows

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the location of the nearest McDonalds, the business hours of your local Costco and the restaurant nearest to your location that serves “poutine”.

In the past ten years, without exception, every person reading this column has experienced and benefitted from access to the Internet in some way. Today ninety percent of American homes have high speed Internet access. Using the Internet to find solutions and answer questions has become second nature to us to and, to an increasing extent, is beginning to have a measurable effect on our “mental muscles”.

Over the past fifteen years the standardized IQ tests, mainly administered to people under twenty- five, indicate that the reliance on the Internet’s IA and knowledge base

has begun to erode the “cognitive abilities” of our younger generations.

There is no escaping the fact that The Internet will continue to evolve, getting ever smarter and more capable. As we humans continue to take advantage of the ever increasing capabilities of Internet based AI instead of using our brains, there is the certainty that our own cognitive abilities will erode. As earlier technology reduced the survival requirements for human strength and physicality, man turned to sports, exercise and the gym. Will we find a similar method to strengthen our minds and prevent the Internet and AI from turning us into a horde of shuffling zombies totally dependent on our technology? The jury is still out.

Before you buy a “retail” PC! Consider an “Enterprise” Refurb

Notebooks, desktops, All-in-ones, Micros With new OS, New SSD and extras Windows 11 8th Gen and Above Intel & AMD ~ $400-$600 Windows 10 7th Gen and Below Intel & AMD ~ $195-$500 Upgrade your Old PC (SSD, Win 10/11, RAM) ~ $120-$200 Trade in credit for older PCs on new or refurb PC ?????

Refurbs- half the price, twice the performance PC Repair and Upgrade Service Custom Built PCs (games, design, modeling etc)

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John Van Zante’s Critter Corner

Maybe It’s Time For a Semi-retired Pet ~ What You See Is What You Get. You know how big it is, its personality, and grooming needs. ~ Easier to Train. You CAN teach an old dog new tricks! It wants to make you happy. And most older dogs speak “human.”

When you get a puppy or kitten, you wake up when you feel their breath on your face, when they need a potty break, or when you hear a crash in the living room.

As it grows, your pet’s constant needs become less. When my dog became a senior, we were so in tune with each other. Putting on my shoes meant “Get ready” and when I picked up the keys, we left.

I love senior pets. This Critter Corner is about November “Adopt a Senior Pet Month.” According to the ASPCA, here are some of the top reasons to adopt an older pet.

~ Seniors Are Super-Loving.

They’re devoted and grateful. The responsibility is ours to prove we deserve them. ~ They’re Not a 24-7 Job. Grownup dogs don’t require constant monitoring. A quiet senior is napping. A quiet puppy is trouble. ~ They Usually Settle in More Quickly. Most older dogs have learned to get along with their “pack.” That’s what they want. As the saying goes, “Save the drama for your Mama.” ~ Fewer Messes. Older dogs are more likely to be housetrained and less likely to be destructive.

~ You Won’t be Biting Off More Than You Can Chew. A puppy can be an 8 to 20-year responsibility. An older dog is still a lifetime commitment, but it will be shorter. ~ Find a Dog That Shares Your Activity Level. The size, breed, and age of the dog are good indications of how much exercise it needs. ~ When You Adopt an Older Dog,

You’ll Reap The Rewards. You may be saving a life, and your senior dog will repay you over and over. ~ They’re CUTE! The face of an older dog is one of nature’s miracles.

Their eyes look right into your soul.

Their faces tell you what they’re thinking.

Every day with an older dog is a new blessing.

The Paper • Page 12 • November 9, 2023

Oodles from page 5 Free Tax Filing Help Our IRS sponsored program offers free tax-filing help low income seniors. We’re looking for compassionate and friendly folks to join our team of volunteers preparing taxes for the upcoming season at the Escondido Sr Center. You’ll receive training and continued support in a welcoming environment. You will not only learn new skills, but also get a great feeling from helping someone else. We also need computer tutors and receptionists to help our local seniors. Call 760 480-0611 if you are interested. *** Calling All Makers & Artists MainStreet Oceanside is accepting applications from area makers of handcrafted goods for the Eighth Annual Merry Makers Fair. Taking place in Downtown Oceanside on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 25, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., this annual holiday pop-up market is part of ‘Tis the Season to Shop Local — a fun, distinctly local holiday celebration inviting the community to explore Oceanside retail establishments and to shop local this holiday season.

A distinctive, artisanal holiday shopping experience, the Merry Makers Fair offers an exciting opportunity to bring you face-to-face with new customers in a festive market setting. Operating at Pier View Way and Coast Highway, Artist Alley between Mission Avenue and Pier View Way, and the Civic Center Fountains, you will also get a glimpse of what it could be like to have a shop or collective in Downtown Oceanside.

Fees to participate in the Merry Makers Fair will be collected on or before November 17, 2023. Fees are $75 per booth. Payments may be made by credit card online via invoice or by cash, check, or credit card in person at the MainStreet Oceanside office at 701 Mission Avenue, Oceanside, CA 92054.

To apply, visit https://form.jotform. com/232615269102147 Problem Solved from page 6 starts. Is it when the first incorrect item is delivered, or the correct item?

If you were past the 30 days, someone from Saks should have told you before you returned your bag.

Saks found itself in a difficult position. It had accepted your return, so it either needed to refund you or return the bag to you. It seemed to want to do neither.

If there’s a lesson here, maybe it’s that you need to be sure that you want an item before you order it online. Or, if you’re not sure, maybe go to a Saks location to take a look at the item before buying it. None of that would have prevented Saks from sending you the wrong bag, but once it replaced the bag with the correct one, your problem would have been solved.

I contacted Saks on your behalf. A representative called you and reviewed your order. Saks refunded you the full amount for your returned bag, as promised.

Christopher Elliott is the founder of Elliott Advocacy (https://elliottadvocacy.org), a nonprofit organization that helps consumers solve their problems. Email him at chris@elliott. org or get help by contacting him at https://elliottadvocacy.org/help/ © 2023 Christopher Elliott.

Italy from page 5

Firenze Morning in Firenze. The cobblestone streets are wet from a light rain. The sun is not yet up.

The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore stands in the distance, red tile roof obscured by a mist which hangs over town like a damp washrag.

I leave my inn, looking for coffee and breakfast. I’ve been in Italy for weeks now—and I never thought I’d say this—but I’m sick of bread.

I pass a homeless man on the corner. He is sleeping at the foot of a basilica, on the cobblestones. A dog is curled up beside him. They are both wet. Both shivering.

Next, I see two nuns approach the man. Their habits are dark and nontraditional. The nuns look youngish. Maybe mid-forties.

One nun stoops to speak to the man. And I cannot help but watch them. I’m thinking to myself, “Now here is something you don’t see every day.” A nun and a beggar. It’s like the flannel boards from Sunday school class, only in real-time.

Maybe the nun is asking whether the man is all right. Maybe she is offering to help him, or buy him a sandwich. Or whatever.

ways surrounded by a giant cloud of vape fog. Almost all young people vape in Italy. It must be an unwritten law. If you are young; you vape.

The air is cough-syrup scented miasma. It’s almost enough to make you miss the days when people smoked cigarettes. Almost.

But these children are young and happy, and full of wonderful plans for their lives. Just seeing them makes me feel a little excited somehow. Also, all these Italian students have more fashion sense in their pinky toes than an entire Kardashian family reunion.

Speaking of fashion. Recently, a well-known American university had to issue a mandate that students no longer wear pajamas to class. Kids were showing up in slippers, with messy hair, wearing flannel pants.

Here in Italy, they wouldn’t wear flannel pants to check the mail.

I watch the students pass. They all carry portfolio bags and document tubes. Maybe these kids want to be architects when they graduate.

Maybe they want to pursue a career in art. Or—and we can’t rule this out—maybe they don’t know what the heck they want to be when they grow up.

Just like this former American student.

I never knew what I wanted to do when I grew up. I wasted years spinning my wheels, making idiotic choices, working dead-end jobs.

The funny thing is, I still don’t know who I am. I still don’t know what I’m doing. So when I see their young confidence, I feel a little jealous. Because I never had that. And I still don’t.

Finally, I arrive at Café Gilli, which has been in business since 1733, located at the corner of the Piazza Repubblica.

I order a cappuccino at the marble counter and watch Florentines stop in on their morning commutes.

This is an extremely happy place to be this morning. Everyone is talking loud and is socially animated, flinging hands around, and laughing with each other.

They are all trim and fashionably dressed. Even the elderly people look like they just crawled out of a perfume ad.

And I’m thinking. I’m thinking that this is a city often hailed to be the most charming city in the world. The birthplace of the Renaissance. The hometown of Michelangelo. The one-time unofficial capital of the globe. And I’m here, a big, dumb American, still wondering what’s it all about, Alfie?

On my way across the street, I pass the homeless man again. He is now eating a sandwich and drinking a hot cup of espresso. The dog has a full bowl of food, too. I see his smile. I see the dog wolfing the food. Somehow, I just know where their food came from.

And I think I just figured out what I want to do when I grow up. ***

Meeting Michelangelo The Accademia Gallery is crowded with people. Lots of people.

Half the world comes to this museum on a daily basis. There must be a thousand tourists waiting to get inside.

Michelangelo’s statue of David draws four thousand visitors each day the museum is open. Which is about a million and a half visitors per year. They come from all four corners.

Right now, I’m standing in line alongside the rest of the world. A 23-year-old art student from Curaçao. A 48-year-old attorney from Sacramento. An 18-year-old with cerebral palsy, from Glasgow. A 72-year-old florist from Ukraine.

A mid-sixties Korean couple in matching pink jogging suits.And a little French girl ahead of me. With pigtails. Missing teeth. She’s cuter than a duck in a hat. She looks at me and waves.

I wave back.

No sooner have we entered the building than we are greeted by security.

You know the drill. Visitors must remove belts, phones, keys, switchblades, underpants, etc., and place them on the conveyor belt so they can be X-rayed. All redheaded writers must then be spun around and fondled with a metal detector wand.

She stays with him for a while, as crowds of students meander past them.

Meantime, I sip my coffee and glance at my own clothes. I look like a pig farmer in town for a conference on animal husbandry.

Every time I go through security, I remember when security checks like this were foreign and unusual. Now they are commonplace.

And necessary. As I write this, only hours ago there was a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine. At

There are students everywhere here in Florence. You can tell they are students because they are al-

After breakfast, I am walking around again. On my way back to the inn.

Italy continued on page 13

The Paper • Page 13 • November 9, 2023

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and take selfies. Whereupon, they simply walk out.

We file into the museum. There are a lot of other paintings in this place, from a lot of other artists. But amazingly, nobody is looking at them. The large clot of people rushes through the preliminary exhibits and cuts straight to the chase.

Another group of college-age tourists, from Spain I think, does the same thing. Enter. Pose. Leave.

A team of young Australians poses before the Renaissance figure. One of the group is brandishing a selfie stick. They all shout “Yeah!” And they stride out of the place without looking back.

The David.

Get in. Get picture. Get out.

Michelangelo’s masterstroke is 17 feet tall and weighs 12,500 pounds.

For us visual learners, that’s about the size of a two-story building, and the same weight as three entrylevel Ford F-150s.

Multitudes of halfhearted visitors navigate the statue, shooting video. They never remove their eyes from their device. They never quit thumbing away on screens.

The detail is astounding. The veins on his neck. His oversized hands.

His intricate toenails. His wrists.

His calves. His thingy. It’s all enough to make you stand in rapt awe.

I look at the crowd surrounding me.

Above the crowd, arms are held high, clutching phones, shooting video, and making pictures. Heads tilted upward, so they can see their phone displays.

But very few in this museum are awestruck. They simply don’t have time to be. They are too busy on their phones.

There is a guy walking around the exhibit doing a FaceTime call. He is talking loudly. He doesn’t even show the caller any images of the statue, just his own face.

I see a throng of Americans in New York Yankee ball caps rush into the gallery, pose together, backs facing the statue, they flash peace signs,

I sit on the bench with David for a little while. Hanging out with Michelangelo. And I’m taking it all in.

When I was 16, I read “The Agony

and the Ecstasy,” by Irving Stone.

A biographical novel about Michelangelo. I read it three times. It affected me greatly. I’ve been waiting half my life to sit right here, on this bench, and meet Michelangelo personally.

I suppose I should be documenting all this on my phone, like everyone else. But I don’t want to. This would cheapen the experience for me, somehow. It would be a lot like taking a selfie during your own colonoscopy.

So I just sit here.

The little French girl is sitting beside me. She is one of the few who is actually looking at the statue. No phone. No selfies. She is swinging her legs. Head cranked backward so she can see David’s shoulder.

Sean Dietrich

•

760-747-7119

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The Paper • Page 14 • November 9, 2023

Letters from page 4 You should know that Hell and hades in the Greek and Hebrew, simply means mankind’s common grave and I am not a minister, but I like the Bereans do a lot of research on the Bible.

The God of love, does not need to burn you me or anyone else in a perpetual place of fire. He has the ability to take our life forever and does not need to brow beat or scare anyone to love him and gain life.

The other word of purgatory does not exist in the Bible also and is used to control by scare tactics, it is a shame people don’t see the hypocrisy in these teaching.

A lover of the Bible.

Tony

Chuckles from page 2 2. On a Continental Flight with a very “senior” flight attendant crew, the pilot said, “Ladies and gentlemen, we’ve reached cruising altitude and will be turning down the cabin lights. This is for your comfort and to enhance the appearance of your flight attendants.”

3. On landing, the stewardess said, “Please be sure to take all of your belongings. If you’re going to leave anything, please make sure it’s something we’d like to have.”

4. There may be 50 ways to leave your lover, but there are only 4 ways out of this airplane” 5. “Thank you for flying Delta Business Express. We hope you enjoyed giving us the business as much as we enjoyed taking you for a ride.”

6. As the plane landed and was coming to a stop at Ronald Reagan, a lone voice came over the loudspeaker: “Whoa, big fella, WHOA!” * 7. After a particularly rough landing during thunderstorms in Memphis , flight attendant on a Northwest flight announced, “Please take care when opening the overhead compartments because, after a landing like that, sure as hell everything has shifted.”

8. From a Southwest Airlines employee: “Welcome aboard Southwest Flight 245 to Tampa . To operate your seat belt, insert the metal tab into the buckle, and pull tight. It works just like every other seat belt; and, if you don’t know how to operate one, you probably shouldn’t be out in public unsupervised.”

9. “In the event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, masks will descend from the ceiling. Stop screaming, grab the mask, and pull it over your face. If you have a small child traveling with you, secure your mask before assisting with theirs. If you are traveling with more than one small child, pick your favorite.”

10. Weather at our destination is 50 degrees with some broken clouds, but we’ll try to have them fixed before we arrive. Thank you and remember, nobody loves you or your money more than Southwest Airlines.”

11. “Your seat cushions can be used for flotation; and, in the event of an emergency water landing, please paddle to shore and take them with our compliments.”

12. “As you exit the plane, make sure to gather all of your belongings. Anything left behind will be distributed evenly among the flight attendants. Please do not leave children or spouses.”

13. And from the pilot during his welcome message: “Delta Airlines is pleased to have some of the best flight attendants in the industry.

Unfortunately, none of them are on this flight!”

14. Heard on Southwest Airlines just after a very hard landing in Salt Lake City : The flight attendant came on the intercom and said, “That was quite a bump, and I know what y’all are thinking.

I’m here to tell you it wasn’t the airline’s fault, it wasn’t the pilot’s fault, it wasn’t the flight attendant’s fault... it was the asphalt.”

15. Overheard on an American Airlines flight into Amarillo , Texas , on particularly windy and bumpy day: During the final approach, the Captain was really having to fight it. After an extremely hard landing, the Flight Attendant said, “Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Amarillo . Please remain in your seats with your seat belts fastened while the Captain taxis what’s left of our airplane to the gate!”

16. Another flight attendant’s comment on a less than perfect landing: “We ask you to please remain seated as Captain Kangaroo bounces us to the terminal.”

17. An airline pilot wrote that on this particular flight had hammered his ship into the runway really hard. The airline had a policy which required the first officer to stand at the door while the passengers exited, smile, and give them a “Thanks for flying our airline.” He said that, in light of his bad landing, he had a hard time looking the passengers in the eye, thinking that someone would have a smart comment. Finally everyone had gotten off except for a little old lady walk-

ing with a cane. She said, “Sir, do you mind if I ask you a question?”

“Why, no, Ma’am,” said the pilot.

“What is it?” The little old lady said, “Did we land, or were we shot down?”

18 After a real crusher of a landing in Phoenix , the attendant came on with, “Ladies and Gentlemen, please remain in your seats until Capt. Crash and the Crew have brought the aircraft to a screeching halt against the gate. And, once the tire smoke has cleared and the warning bells are silenced, we’ll open the door and you can pick your way through the wreckage to the terminal.”

19. Part of a flight attendant’s arrival announcement: “We’d like to thank you folks for flying with us today. And, the next time you get the insane urge to go blasting through the skies in a pressurized metal tube, we hope you’ll think of US Airways.”

Man About Town from page 4 ••• Many of you have called or written to ask about retired Pastor Richard Huls. Physically, he’s fine. He’s recovered from the tragic fire that took the life of his beloved wife, Marcia, destroyed his home, and almost killed him. All of his hair has returned, head, eyebrows, eyelashes . . . his lungs have now been cleared of smoke damage, he has returned hom from his wonderful rehab center in Poway.

But he is lonesome.

He lives in a lovely, very comfortable apartment on North Broadway in Escondido. He has a lot of family support in the evenings and/or weekends ... but long, lonesome days.

Understandable. He and Marcia were together for over 60 years . . . and you can only read so many books and watch only so much tv.

He and I get together from time to time for coffee and/or lunch and I always enjoy his company and he seems to enjoy mine.

His plans are to find a car to buy and to have builders begin to build a new house for him,which will start in several weeks ... but you are looking at least a year before it will be completed (on the same lot in Escondido where his previous home once occupied).

But there are still down times when he could use some company.

He is a fine, fine man and a fascinating conversatonalist with many experiences to share. Retired Naval officer, retired Chaplain for the Escondido Police Department,

teacher of bible studies, a great asset for the community.

I have agreed to pick him up and transport him to the weekly Kiwanis meetings in Escondido.

There, he’ll be with good friends who know and love him and he knows and loves them back. I expect to see many happy smiles and a bright, happy look return to his eyes.

And I look forward to more frequent coffees and lunches.

Historically Speaking from page 7 nationality, routes, and content of their illicit cargo. And much to the frustration of the British authorities, when seizures did happen local merchants were often able to use sympathetic judges to reclaim confiscated goods and have their cases dismissed.

Hancock became one of Boston’s leaders during the crisis leading to the 1775 outbreak of the American Revolutionary War. He served more than two years in the Continental Congress in Philadelphia.

In his position of president, he was the first to sign the Declaration of Independence. Since the signing, Hancock is remembered for his large and stylish signature … so much so the term “John Hancock” has become a nickname for one’s signature. At the time of the “Declaration’s” signing, one of the congressional members reportedly commented on the size of Hancock’s signature. “I want to make sure ‘Fat George’ can read it,” he reportedly remarked.

He returned to Massachusetts and was elected governor of the Commonwealth, serving in that role for most of his remaining years. He used his influence to ensure that Massachusetts ratified the United States Constitution in 1788.

Hancock’s political success benefited from the support of Samuel Adams, the clerk of the House of Representatives and a leader of Boston’s “popular party,” also known as “Whigs” and later as “Patriots”. The two men made an unlikely pair. Fifteen years older than Hancock, Adams had a somber, Puritan outlook that stood in marked contrast to Hancock’s taste for luxury and extravagance.

Hancock died at the young age of 56 on Oct. 8, 1793. A lavish funeral was given, which was said to be the biggest in the nation up until that time. The date of his passing became a Massachusetts state holiday.

The Paper • Page 15 • November 9, 2023

LEGALS

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9020654 The name of the business: Face Defined Esthetic, located at 4151 Oceanside Blvd., Oceanside, CA 92056. Registrant Information: Thao Nguyen Phuong, 5265 Rosewood Dr., Oceanside, CA 92056. This business is operated by an Individual. First day of business: 10/6/2023 /s/ Thao Phuong Nguyen with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 10/6/2023 10/19, 10/26, 11/2, 11/9/2023 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9021368 The name of the business: Dapper Dog, Duppeg Dog and Cat, located at 2897 Cordrey Drive, Escondido, CA 92029. Registrant Information: Dapper Dog LLC, 2897 Cordrey Dr., Escondido, CA 92029. This business is operated by a Limited Liability Company. First day of business: N/A /s/ Patrick Motenaar, Manager with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 10/18/2023 10/26, 11/2, 11/9, 11/16/2023 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9021337 The name of the business: True Impact Signs, located at 330 Rancheros Dr., Ste 130, San Marcos, CA 92069. Registrant Information: True Impact Sign Solutions Inc., 300 Rancheros Dr., Ste 130, San Marcos, CA 92069. This business is operated by a Corporation. First day of business: 10/18/2023 /s/ Benjamin Mceachen, President with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 10/18/2023 10/26, 11/2, 11/9, 11/16/2023

Genesis, located at 732 Point Cabrillo, Oceanside, CA 92058.

Registrant Information: Jakob Adan Matanane, 732 Point Cabrillo, Oceanside, CA 92058. This business is operated by an Individual. First day of business: N/A /s/ Jakob Adan Matanane with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 9/26/2023 10/26, 11/2, 11/9, 11/16/2023 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9020134 The name of the business: Jojobokwe Candles LLC, located at 3796 San Ramon Dr., Unit 52, Oceanside, CA 92057. Registrant Information: Jojobokwe Candles LLC, located at 3796 San Ramon Dr., Unit 52, Oceanside, CA 92057. This business is operated by a Limted Liability Company. First day of business: N/A /s/ Joana Davis, CEO with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 9/29/2023 10/26, 11/2, 11/9, 11/16/2023 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9021036 The name of the business: To Have and to Hold Coaching, located at 1441 Main St. 175, Ramona, CA 92065. Registrant Information: Lauren Jeanne Roethle, 1220 D Street, Ramona, CA 92065. This business is operated by an Individual.

First day of business: N/A /s/ Lauren Jeanne Roethle with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 10/13/2023 10/26, 11/2, 11/9, 11/16/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9021308 The name of the business: Auto Shine Revival, located at 1904 Stewart Street, Oceanside, CA 92054.

Registrant Information: Efstathios Stavropoulos, 1904 Stewart Street, Oceanside, CA 92054. This business is operated by an Individual. First day of business: 9/1/2023 /s/ Efstathios Stavropoulos with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 10/18/2023 10/26, 11/2, 11/9, 11/16/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9021046 The name of the business: Diaz Service Spa Movers Inc., Dia Service, Diaz Services, Diaz Service Professional Spa Movers, Diaz Bros, Diaz Delivery, Diaz Movers, located at 1918 N. Twin Oaks Valley Rd #A, San Marcos, CA 92069. Registrant Information: Diaz Service Spa Movers Inc, 1918 N. Twin Oaks Valley Rd #A, San Marcos, CA 92069. This business is operated by a Corporation. First day of business: 10/20/2021 /s/ Martha Diaz, Secretary with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 10/13/2023 10/26, 11/2, 11/9, 11/16/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9019765 The name of the business: Jag

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9021554 The name of the business: Compadre

Manufactured Homes, located at 380 S. Melrose Dr., Ste 366, Vista, CA 92081. Registrant Information: Compadre Brokers, 380 S. Melrose Dr., Ste 366, Vista, CA 92081.

This business is operated by a Corporation. First day of business: 10/18/2023 /s/ John Rory Manning, President with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 10/20/2023 11/2, 11/9, 11/16, 11/23/2023 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9018556 The name of the business: Inspire Agency Group, located at 2630 Half Dome Place, Carlsbad, CA 92010.

Registrant Information: Nicole Kuklewicz, 2630 Half Dome Place, Carlsbad, CA 92010. This business is operated by an Individual. First day of business: 9/21/2018 /s/ Nicole Kuklewicz with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 9/8/2023 11/2, 11/9, 11/16, 11/23/2023 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9020831 The name of the business: Forest Souls Tattoo, Forest Souls LLC, located at 3772 Mission Ave., Suite 128, Oceanside, CA 92058.

Registrant Information: Forest Souls LLC, 3772 Mission Ave., Suite 120 Oceanside, CA 92058. This business is operated by a Limited Liability Company. First day of business: 10/6/2023 /s/ Brenna Debartolo, CEO with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 10/6/2023 11/2, 11/9, 11/16, 11/23/2023 STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME: 2023-9020559 Create Christian Church, located at 4070 Bonita Rd., Bonita, CA 91902 The Fictitious Business Name referred to above was filed in San Diego County on 2/7/202 and assigned file no. 20209003438.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IS BEING ABANDONED BY: Manna Wold Ministries, Inc., 292 E. Barham Dr., Suite 202, San Marcos, CA 92078.

This business is conducted by a general partnership. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1000). /s/Daniel E. Jones, President This statement was filed with the

San Diego Recorder/County clerk on 10/5/2023.

Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 10/26/2023 11/9, 11/16, 11/23, 11/30/2023

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME 37-2023-00036237-CU-PT-NC TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Ashley Itati Montoya-Manscisidor filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: Ashley Itati Montoya-Manscisidor to Proposed name Ashley Itati Mancisidor. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted.

Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objections that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING: Date: 10/20/2023, 8:30 am, in Dept. 25 The address of the court is: 325 S. Melrose, Vista, CA. 92081. A copy of the Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: San Marcos News Reporter, dba, The Paper, 845 W. San Marcos Blvd, San Marcos, Ca. 92078. Dated August 23, 2023 /s/ Brad A. Weinreb, Judge of the Superior Court 9/21, 9/28, 10/5, 10/12/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9022507 The name of the business: Cocina del Mar, located at 650 Douglas Dr., 122, Oceanside, CA 92058.

Registrant Information: SD Oceanside Inc., 4435 Old River St., Oceanside, CA 92057. This business is operated by a Corporation. First day of business: N/A /s/ Justina Sanchez Ambrocio, President with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 11/3/2023 11/9, 11/16, 11/23, 11/30/2023

11/2, 11/9, 11/16, 11/23/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9022095 The name of the business: Box and Strings, Sweet Baby Hub, located at 605 Hillhaven Dr., San Marcos, CA 92078. Registrant Information: Box and Strings LLC, 605 Hillhaven Dr., San Marcos, CA 92078. This business is operated by a Limited Liability Company. First day of business: 11/5/2020 /s/ Katrina Villareal, CEO with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 10/27/2023 11/9, 11/16, 11/23, 11/30/2023 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9022036 The name of the business: Sol Bliss Studio, located at 3550 Summit Trail Ct., Carlsbad, CA 92010. Registrant Information: Katherine Ann Bobeck, 3550 Summit Trail Ct., Carlsbad, CA 92010. This business is operated by an Individual. First day of business: N/A /s/ Katherine Ann Bobeck with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9022578 The name of the business: Happy Hour Laser And Botox Clinic, located at 317 El Camino Real Suite 308, Encinitas, CA 92024.

Registrant Information: Jwendle Nursing a Professional Corporation, 317 El Camino Real Suite 308, Encinitas, CA 92024. This business is operated by a Corporation. First day of business: 10/30/2023 /s/ Janet Wendle, President with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 11/6/2023 11/9, 11/16, 11/23, 11/30/2023 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9022403 The name of the business: European Investments Ltd., located at 1338 icolette Ave., Suite 1032, Chula Vista, CA 91913. Registrant Information: Demetrio AlmaguerOlivar, 1338 Nicolette Ave., Unit 1032, Chula Vista, CA 91913.

This business is operated by an Individual. First day of business: 10/31/2023 /s/ Demetrio Almaguer-Olivar with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 11/2/2023 11/9, 11/16, 11/23, 11/30/2023 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9021008 The name of the business: Happiness Nails & Spa, located at 127 N. El Camino Real, #F, Encinitas, CA 92024. Registrant Information: Tran Express Investments Inc., 127 N. el Camino Real, #F, Encinitas, CA 92024. This business is operated by a Corporation. First day of business: 10/1/2020 /s/ Hoa Tran, Owner, CEO with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on

10/13/2023 11/9, 11/16, 11/23, 11/30/2023 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9021072 The name of the business: One Stop Shop, located at 7030 Via Ostiones, Carlsbad, CA 92009.

Registrant Information: Parwana K. Hassanzadeh, 7030 Via Ostiones, Carlsbad, CA 92009. This business is operated by an Individual. First day of business: 10/16/2023 /s/ Parwana K. Hassanzadeh with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 10/16/2023 11/9, 11/16, 11/23, 11/30/2023 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9021993 The name of the business: HR And J Plumbing, located at 146 Calle Quinn, Vista, CA 92083. Registrant Information: Liborio Yin, 146 Calle Quinn, Vista, CA 92083, Roberto Sanchez, 146 Calle Quinn, Vista, CA 92082, Jose Araya, 146 Calle Quinn, Vista, CA 92083. This business is operated by a Limited Partnership.

First day of business: N/A /s/ Liborio Yin with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 10/25/2023 11/9, 11/16, 11/23, 11/30/2023 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9021206 The name of the business: Advanced Family Counseling of San Diego, PC, located at 13525 Midland Rd., Suite J, Poway, CA 92064.

Registrant Information: Advanced Family Counseling of San Diego, PC, 13525 Midland Rd., Suite J, Poway, CA 92064. This business is operated by a Corporation. First day of business: 1/29/2021 /s/ Fanba Restami, President with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 10/16/2023 11/9, 11/16, 11/23, 11/30/2023 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9019972 The name of the business: SYC Listing, located at 1200 Harbor Drive N Unit 1B, Oceanside, CA 92054. Registrant Information: Glen Hughes, 1200 Harbor Drive N Unit 1B, Oceanside, CA 92054.

This business is operated by an Individual. First day of business: 9/28/2023 /s/ Glen Hughes with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 9/28/2023 10/19, 10/26, 11/2, 11/9/2023

First, I discovered America, then I discovered The Paper Ever since I can remember I’ve had the burning desire to discover new places, new adventures. Because of this, I set out to discover a new country . . . and I was successful. I even ventured inland a great many miles where I discovered a place I called Minnesota.

“This,” I thought, “would be a great place for Scandinavians.”

So I headed back to Norway to recruit settlers. While I was gone, some clown named Columbus claimed he discovered America.

Life ain’t fair. Except life also give us The Paper. I read it whenever and wherever I go exploring and only buy from those who advertise in The Paper. It’s a Viking thing.

Your friend, Eric the Red

The Paper • Page 16 • November 9, 2023