June 15, 2023

San Marcos Vista Carlsbad

Oceanside Valley Center

Editor’s Note: This is a reprint of a cover story we did back in 2011 saluting local hero, Jack Port.

by lyle e davis

Back then he was about as scared as a young kid can be. Today, he has shaken the hand of President Barack Obama, met First Lady, Michelle Obama, is honored by the people of Normandy, France, indeed, the village of St. Pois has taken him into their bosom as one of their own as an honorary citizen . . . he has met the great, the wealthy, the powerful.

But back in the day, he was just one more scared GI, about to head across the English Channel and participate in D-Day.

Today, he travels to France on board an Air France jetliner, and is treated like royalty. Back then, he was in a LCI (Landing Craft, Infantry) with about 100 other soldiers, many of whom became seasick during the choppy crossing. He didn’t become seasick. He had fished a great deal in the ocean off of California’s coast and never once has been seasick a day in his life. “It’s true what they say,” he says, “when you get really, really seasick, you turn green. I saw many a soldier on board our LCI that turned green.”

He’s 89 years old today, but doesn’t look it. Nor does he feel it. He plays tennis two the three times a week and works out daily in a gym.

He is Jack Port, the pride of Escondido, and now, Oceanside.

Many folks in Escondido know Jack as the genial proprietor of Port’s Men’s Wear in Escondido, the store his father founded and he continued to operate at 214 East Grand until finally closing the store in 1975. A lot of folks do not realize that he was one of those heroic young men who participated in D-Day, hitting Utah Beach with his comrades in arms, and watching many die.

Many strange twists in Jack Port’s life, not the least of which is the fact that his father, originally from Estonia, was strict and absolutely

Paper T H E

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forbade guns in the house. “You don’t shoot, you don’t kill,” his father had said.

And now here he was, M-1 rifle cradled in his arms, aboard an LCI, bound for a place called Utah Beach, in France - about to take on the German military in just one of many memorable battles he was to experience.

“I was absolutely, totally scared,” he said. “From the time we embarked from England, all during the voyage over, when we hit the beaches, during our campaign inland, throughout France, Germany, and Belgium. I was never not scared.”

“Omaha Beach caught hell. We were fired upon and had some casualties, but there was relatively light resistance. That didn’t take away the fear. We established our beach-head and rolled to the right, heading for our first mission, Cherbourg, France.”

Another of those strange twists in Jack Port’s life:

“The Army took this punk kid and turned him into a combat ready soldier. I was inducted into the Army at San Pedro. After my basic training at Camp Roberts in Paso Robles, California, it was well known that everyone was headed for the Pacific Theatre of War Operations. Suddenly, a

Give Us This Day our Daily Chuckle

This week, a compendium of wit, wisdom and neat stuff you can tell at parties. Enjoy!

The biggest joke on mankind is that computers have begun asking humans to prove they aren’t a robot.

When a kid says “Daddy, I want mommy” that’s the kid’s version of “I’d like to speak to your supervisor.”

I don’t mean to interrupt people but I just randomly remember things and get really excited.

I thought growing old would take longer.

It’s weird being the same age as

levy came down that set up a separate shipment to Camp Shanks in New York. We don’t know why we were going to New York, of all places, when we were already in California. We soon found out. We were going to Europe to fight the Germans.”

What would have happened if Jack Port had been sent to the Pacific instead of Europe? We’ll never know. We do know what happened to him in the European Theatre . . . and that he returned to live a wonderful life in his be-

old people.

I’m at that delusional age where I think everyone my age looks way older than I do.

Just once I want a username and password prompt to say CLOSE ENOUGH.

If I am ever on life support unplug me and plug me back in and see if that works.

Do you ever wake up in the morning and look in the mirror and think… “That can’t be accurate.?!

I see people out there zip-lining and mountain climbing and here I am feeling good about myself because I got my leg through my underwear without losing my balance.

Last night the internet stopped working so I spent a few hours with my family. They seem like good people.

If Adam and Eve were Cajuns they would have eaten the snake instead of the Apple and saved us all a lot of trouble.

loved homeland of America.

Arriving in England, he was assigned to the 4th Infantry Division. Before leaving stateside, he was supposed to qualify with the M-1 rifle. He had to try four times before an exasperated instructor finally passed him, even though he had only reached 137 instead of the required score of 140. “I don’t want to have to bring you back here again,” he said, “137 is close enough to 140. I’m gonna mark you down as ‘passed’.” When he got to England he was then supposed to qualify on the carbine. He never did qualify on the carbine.

“We landed in Scotland,” Jack says. “Then they shipped us by train to ‘The Moors,’ in England; the shades were pulled on the train so we had no idea where we were going. Upon arrival, we were housed in pup tents for about 60 days while we trained. It was cold, windy, rainy, very uncomfortable.

There was no talk of ‘D-Day.’ I was a simple buck private so knew very little. We all knew we were going somewhere but we didn’t know where until about 2-3 weeks prior when we learned we were going to be part of ‘an invasion.’ But the location of this ‘invasion’ was not known to us until about a week before the actual event. Right away we noticed a heavy increase in activity as people and equipment were mobilized. We knew something was

We celebrated last night with a couple of adult beverages…Metamucil and Ensure.

You know you are getting old when friends with benefits mean having someone who can drive at night.

Weight loss goal: To be able to clip my toenails and breathe at the same time.

After watching how some people wear their masks I understand why contraception fails.

Some of my friends exercise every day, meanwhile, I am watching a show I don’t like because the remote fell on the floor. ***

News from Down South Alabama

A group of Alabama friends went deer hunting and paired off in twos for the day. That night, one of the hunters returned alone, staggering under the weight of an eight-point buck.

“Where’s Henry?” the others asked.

up and whatever it was, was big. Really big.”

Here I was, this young lad who was not allowed to have a gun in the house, now laden with my M-1, with two bandoliers of ammunition, and four hand grenades strapped to my gear. I had only thrown one hand grenade in Basic Training. But I was now trained and equipped for war.

We boarded our LCI. I always used to call them LCT’s but that, I found,means Landing Craft, Tanks. We were on board Landing Craft, Infantry. There was no food on board, but lots of coffee. We all had K-rations, but very few of us ate during the voyage across the Channel.

Even then, we still didn’t know how big this was, or that this was to be “D-Day.” All we knew was, we were ordered to go on this invasion and we went and did what we were told.

Clearly, it was big. Not only a lot of personnel and equipment . . .but supplies. I can tell you there were millions and millions of cigarettes on board those ships and LCI’s. And millions and millions of condoms, very few of which were to be used for their original purpose. Instead, they were used to protect K-rations from the weather, to put over the ends of

Jack Port continued on page 3

“Henry had a stroke o’ some kind. He’s a couple of miles back up the trail,” the successful hunter replied.

“You left Henry layin’ out there and carried the deer back?” they inquired.

“A tough call,” nodded the hunter. “But I figured no one’s gonna steal Henry!”

Georgia

The owner of a golf course in Georgia was confused about paying an invoice, so he decided to ask his secretary for some mathematical help.

He called her into his office and said, “Y’all graduated from the University of Georgia and I need some help. If I wuz to give yew $20,000, minus 14%, how much would you take off?”

The secretary thought a moment, and then replied, “Everthang but my earrings.”

Jack Port

A very young, and handsome, Jack Port, in Prun, Germany

Jack Port

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rifle barrels to protect the weapon from the rain.”

Jack paused to reflect a moment: “There are only two of us left today from my unit. Of those that made it home, there were no drug problems, no PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). We came back and Uncle Sam, bless his heart, gave us $20 a month for 52 weeks, plus one month of college for every month in the military, plus VA home loans. The government took pretty good care of us. At least those of us who made it back home. A lot of good men didn’t.”

Our D-Day was not nearly as disastrous as Omaha Beach was. They absolutely caught hell. That’s where the cemetery is today. I’ve been there a number of times and, over the years, have built some very strong and solid friendships with the French people who live there.

To the right of Utah Beach was Pointe d’Hoc. That’s where the rangers were. That was a critical point to take because the German guns could fire up and down the coast at will and hit both Utah Beach and Omaha Beach. The Rangers paid a heavy price, but they took Pointe d’Hoc.

We landed two miles away from where we were supposed to. Maybe that’s why we had such light resistance. We drew enough fire, however, that I immediately did what I was trained to do. I hit the beach, flat on my belly, with my rifle in front of me. Though we had fairly light resistance, the fear never did leave me . . . never. Not until the war was finally over.

Our force included three Regiments. The 8th Regiment landed at about 6:30 or 7am, the 22nd, landed a little later, and my regiment, the 12th, landed at about 10am. From there we wheeled right, toward Cherbourg. The Germans had flooded the plains to slow us down so we were restricted to using the local roadways.

Our objective was to take Cherbourg. Cherbour had a large harbor that the Allies needed. We hit the beach on June 6th, we took Cherbourg on June 25th. There was a lot of hedgerow fighting but we did it. Mission accomplished. At least the first mission.”

In that short time my buddy, Jim, and I had learned a lot. Like how to dig foxholes. A foxhole only

needs to be about 12” deep. We dug all night and Jim said if we dug much more we’d wind up in China. Come morning time, we had a dickens of a time crawing out of our way-too-deep foxhole, probably 6 or 7’ deep. But, we were scared. And we were still alive.

We were involved in some firefights en route to Cherbourg. A sniper had sent about 6 or 7 rounds our way and one finally caught me. Right in the butt. Shot in the fanny! They sent me back to a Field Hospital for treatment. I was hoping to be shipped back to England, but no such luck.

Besides his ‘shot in the fanny,’ Jack had a number of other close calls:

“One time a piece of shrapnel entered my mess-kit and rattled around inside that; another time I had fallen face first into the ground, with my rifle in front of me, just the way they train you to do. A piece of shrapnel went right through the stock of my rifle; another time, we were sitting down, taking a break. My buddy, Jim, said, “Jack, you’d better get down here in this fox hole. I no sooner had gotten into the foxhole when a large piece of shrapnel hit right where I had been sitting.”

It was in Cherbourg where Jack received his first promotion. He went from buck private to Private First Class and immediately went from abut $19 per month to a whopping $21 per month in pay.

That wasn’t all. While in Cherbourg he had his first shower in about four weeks. “I said then that if and when I got back home I’d shower every day. I’ve done that. Sometimes I shower twice a day. It’s rough living out in the field. Not only no showers but sanitation is tough. The simple task of going to the bathroom can be a dicey experience. You’d catch an occasional shave by applying a blow torch to your canteen to heat the water, then lather up and shave. All the tanks had blow torches . . . but that’s a hard way to take a nice refreshing shave. Your hands were filthy dirty but you went ahead and ate your K-rations. War is not a clean, tidy place to be. You really appreciate things like showers.

Normandy had lots of gardens so we’d often grab vegetables and enjoy those as a supplement to our K-rations. They also had lots of apples. We loved ‘em.

Our next mission was to liberate St. Lo. But there was a little ob-

Oodles!

Looking

LIFE at MiraCosta College

June 16 • 1pm

Oceanside Campus Board Room Trailer T200

A Story from Norway to America. John Gunderson will talk about this interesting and varied lifefrom his birth in a Nazi camp to his entrepreneurial spirit today.

LIFE at MiraCosta College

June 16 • 2:30pm

Oceanside Campus Board Room Trailer T200

Learning to Explore - Mr. Moodie considers ways we can teach Exploration as a skill and value. Lessons one local teacher learned in Antarctica.

Veterans’ Writing Group

June 17 • 11am - 2pm

1617 Mission Ave., Oceanside

The Veterans’ Writing Group will host its monthly meeting on 6/17/23 at the Veterans Association of North County (VANC) 1617 Mission Avenue, Oceanside, CA 92058.

All Veterans, dependents and active-duty military members are welcome to this free event.

Our women’s group meets 10-11 live and on Zoom.

All writers meet 11-2 live and on Zoom.

Contact Garry Garretson with any questions or to request zoom information at 760-419-9468 or vwgsdcounty@gmail.com

Wake

When

June

Have you ever come across wild-

life and wonder, does this animal need my help? Not all animals that we intake at Project Wildlife truly need to come in. This virtual lecture, presented by Wildlife Outreach Specialist, Heather Schneider, is intended to give you the tools you need to judge whether or not to intervene when finding wildlife. It will cover subjects ranging from baby birds and bunnies to adult opossums and bats. Knowing that it is sometimes necessary to intervene, this presentation will also cover some basic techniques to keep you and the animal safe when you need to bring them to Project Wildlife.

This talk is virtual and takes place live on Zoom. You will receive the link in your confirmation.

This virtual event is free or a $5 suggested donation is appreciated. You can buy tickets at: https://secure.sdhumane.org/site/Ticketing? view=Tickets&id=138547

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Dos Valles Garden Club Plant Sale

June 17 • 8am to Noon 28933 Cole Grade Rd. • Valley Center at Martin Gang Ranch

All proceeds support scholarships for local students. To learn more about the Dos Valles Garden club, visit dosvallesgardenclub.com

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Summer Soirée Concert

June 17 • 3:15 p.m. Rancho Santa Fe Community Center 5927 La Sendita

Pacific Coast Harmony will present “Happy Together,” a concert of modern four-part acapella harmony music on Saturday June 17, 2023, at 3:15 p.m. at the Rancho Santa Fe Community Center, 5967 La Sendita, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067.

The music spans the Great American Songbook, Broadway theater and film, popular songs, and beyond. In addition to the chorus, there will be several quartet appearances, featuring “The Summertimers Harmony Band,” 2022

John Tenger Escondido’s New Fire Chief

for the last three years. His career began as a volunteer firefighter with the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District in 1997.

City Manager Sean McGlynn announced that Deputy Fire Chief John Tenger has been named Chief for the City of Escondido, after a nationwide search. Chief Tenger will succeed Chief Rick Vogt who will retire on July 15, 2023 after leading the Fire Department for six years and a cumulative 33-year career in fire service.

While making the announcement to the City employee team, Sean McGlynn shared “For nearly three decades John has been a tremendous leader in our fire department and our community. He has the trust, appreciation and respect of the department, colleagues and peers. I am thrilled to promote him to Chief effective July 16, 2023.”

Chief Tenger has been in the fire service for nearly 27 years and has served as the Deputy Fire Chief for the City of Escondido

Chief Tenger began his fulltime professional career as a Firefighter/Paramedic with the City of Escondido in January 1999. In December of 2003, Chief Tenger was promoted to Fire Engineer and then to Fire Captain in January 2006. In 2010, Chief Tenger was promoted to shift Battalion Chief where he served as a 24hour shift commander and oversaw the department’s training and EMS programs. In May 2017, he was promoted to Fire Division Chief and then to Deputy Fire Chief in November 2020, responsible for department operations. Chief Tenger holds a Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Studies from CSU Long Beach. In addition, Chief Tenger recently completed the CSU San Marcos “Leadership North County” program in 2022.

Chief Tenger shared, “I am humbled and honored to be trusted with the responsibility of leading the City of Escondido Fire Department. I am truly thankful for the support of the city manager, city council and all of my colleagues for their confidence in my ability to maintain the highest standards of excellence and professionalism that the City of Escondido Fire Department exemplifies.”

***

Restaurant Fee Waiver Program

The City of Vista is excited to an-

People like former Escondido Mayor, Alan Skuba, who bought a small, non-descript radio station and built it into a powerhouse North County station (KOWN)who went on to buy and build several other businesses.

nounce a restaurant fee waiver program that reduces start-up costs associated with city permits. Permit fee waivers are available to reduce the costs of building and planning permit fees associated with the opening of a new dine-in or quick service restaurant. Restaurants that generate the majority of their revenue from the sale of dine-in food and non-alcoholic beverages are eligible to apply.

The maximum amount of the fee waiver is $5,000.00 and waivers will not exceed the cost of permit fees.

To learn more about the fee waiver program please visit https://blog. cityofvista.com/restaurant-feewaiver-program

If you have any questions please contact Larry Vaupel, Director of Economic Development, at lvaupel@cityofvista.com.

***

Motorcyclist Killed In Single-Vehicle Crash

A 27-year-old man was killed early Friday morning June 9th when he lost control of his motorcycle at Date Street and 5th Avenue in Escondido.

The man was riding with another motorcyclist north approaching the intersection at 2:47 a.m. when, for unknown reasons, he lost control and crashed into a chain-link fence. Witnesses began CPR on the male, and police officers continued life-saving measures. He was taken to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased. His identity

. . he has truly built a monument to our Native Americans . . . and puts on a compelling show each and every day you visit. (I can remember when the Calac family owned a very small Indian Store in the old Escondido Mall ... in the 1970’s).

is not being released at this time pending notification to family.

At this time, the cause of the collision is under investigation. Anyone with information about the crash is asked to call Officer Tyler Herrmann at (760) 839-4911.

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Carlsbad’s TGIF Concert Lineup Announced

Carlsbad’s TGIF Concerts in the Parks series, one of the city’s most popular summer activities, is back in person this summer and celebrating its 36th anniversary with an exciting lineup of performances that will have crowds dancing the night away.

Stagecoach Community Park

July 7: Band Overboard (Yacht Rock)

The smooth grooves, four-part harmony vocals, killer guitar solos, and overall lush, full sound will take you back to the late 70s/early 80s.

July 14: B.I.G. (R&B, Soul & Funk)

B.I.G. (Brothers Igniting A Groove) performs a mix of R&B, smooth jazz and old school funk, including covers and original music.

Poinsettia Community Park

July 21: Young Guns (Country) This band plays all of the best country songs from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s through today.

Man About Town

I like visionaries.

They are what makes things happen. What makes things progress.

Most of the successful people I know are visionaries. Individuals who have an idea, a vision, and they work to make the vision a reality.

People like Arie DeJong, who came to America almost penniless . . . who helped to start Hollandia Dairy, worked hard to make a lot of new customers, then bought more and more businesses, each of which became a resounding success. He saw potential in something others didn’t . . . and he made things happen. Big time.

Larry Benson bought a small, struggling shop that sold Indian art, memorabilia, artifacts, clothing . . . and built that small Indian Shop into a new and impressive Indian Store in Vista, now occupying 4000 square feet - all decorated in a broad variety of authentic Indian apparel, supplies, art work, books, gems, blankets .

Visionaries are not easily deterred.

When the old Spires Restaurant burned down Joe Goncalves determined to rebuild. And rebuild he did - it took a few years what with permitting and wrestling with the insurance companies on proper settlements for the earlier fire . . . and today he’s the proud owner of J&M Restaurant, 1215 E. Valley Parkway. Business there is humming right along with a great staff, superb food, and more than reasonable prices. ***

Men who run out of shaving

cream. It happens. You have a week’s worth of stubble, a job interview in two hours, you’re out of shave cream and you’re casting about for alternatives. The most important piece of advice we can give here is this: Do not be tempted to try the soap.

Soap is designed to remove dirt from your body and does not provide any lubrication or moisturizing properties. The result is that your skin will feel dry after shaving, possibly causing irritation.”

So what’s the better option? Your best bet is actually hair conditioner. You want a product that has skin and hair softening properties, so you get a comfortable shave in place of your shaving product. Conditioner has the slip and conditioning ingredients for an emergency shave. Body lotion and possibly even shampoo or cream-style sun screen should work Try a mushed up avocado— guacamole is great!

John Tenger will succeed retiring Chief Rick Vogt on July 15th.

Jack Port from page 3

stacle in the way. General Montgomery, of the British military, had boasted he’d take Caen in three days. Well, he didn’t. We had to help the Brits liberate Caen. Once we had done that, then we proceeded to St. Lo . . . but we were fighting all the way . . . to Caen . . . and to St. Lo.

To this day, we can still get a rise out of the Brits by asking them, ‘did you liberate Caen yet?’

Once we liberated St. Lo, we would begin preparations for our campaign to liberate Paris. This was to become known as ‘the big breakout.’

It was during this campaign that Allied B-24’s conducted bombing raids with an estimated 1500 to 1800 bombers flying in formation and dropping bombs, attempting to bomb the Germans into submission, or, at a minimum, to make the forward movement of Allied ground troops easier.

Unfortunately, disaster struck. Allied bombers killed an estimated 400 to 500 Allied soldiers in a major ‘friendly fire’ incident. The only General killed during this campaign, General McNary, was killed by friendly fire during one of these bombing raids.

The only General I ever saw on the front lines was General Eisenhower.

After the bombing raids we took off and on July 25th we liberated

Local from page 4

Calavera Hills Community Park

July 28: Jungle Fire (Afro/Latin/ Funk)

An Afro/Latin Funk band creating a melting pot of Afro-Caribbean and West African rhythms with a heavy break beat funk.

Alga Norte Community Park

August 4: Betamaxx (1980s)

A high-energy, nostalgia-filled rock concert that keeps the dance floor packed from beginning to end with an 80s music experience.

August 11: The FABBA Show (A Tribute to ABBA)

An homage to pop sensation ABBA that will take you on a glittery, sparkling, and truly magical journey back to the disco and the 70s.

We’ve received some questions about why there will only be six concerts this year. As we were planning for this summer’s con-

St. Lo. In spite of the cleared land, thanks to the bombing raids, the Germans still put up a tremendous fight . . . but, now, Patton’s tanks entered into the equation. With the open country, his tanks could move quickly. We had big firefights until we got to Mortain . . . we were no longer fighting in the hedgerow country . . then Patton’s tanks really moved.

I am persuaded to this day, however, that if the Germans had not had a second front to fight in Russia, we would still be fighting there. They were ferocious scrappers and we were fortunate to make the progress we did.

Jack was asked the age-old question every interviewer asks every military man who was in combat: “Did you ever kill one of the enemy?”

“Yes,” he said, “everyone does ask that. And the answer is: you just never know. Even when I manned the machine gun during the big breakout . . . I never knew if I hit anyone. I fired a lot of rounds at a lot of targets, a lot of hedgerows, a lot of trees . . . but did I ever kill an enemy? I honestly don’t know.”

Before long, Jack and his comrades in arms would liberate Paris. They had to march 10-15 miles per day to get there, but some were able to catch a ride on tanks and 2 1/2 ton trucks; they had become mechanized!

Patton’s tanks led the way and wiped out the remaining resistance. On August 25th, it hap-

certs, it became clear that our budget would not cover nine concerts. The cost for hosting the concerts has doubled since 2019, before COVID, and inflation has added to that cost. Reducing the number of concerts this summer was the least disruptive way to address this shortfall this year.

Staff are evaluating options for the 2024 TGIF season and will present those to City Council before any decisions are made about next year’s concerts.

***

County Names Interim Health And Human Services Agency Director

County Chief Medical Officer Dr. Eric McDonald has been named to serve as interim Health and Human Services Agency director by Chief Administrative Officer Helen Robbins-Meyer.

Dr. McDonald is expected to

pened. Paris was liberated.

“It took us four weeks, but we got there. We were strafed by the Luftwaffe four or five times . . .but we kept moving. I saw the movie “Private Ryan,” and it was a pretty good depiction of what was happening . . . but a couple areas they were way off. They would show a group of soldiers sitting around talking. That seldom happened. We never gathered in groups. We kept dispersed. Even on a march we stayed about 10 yards away from each other.

But right when we were on the outskirts of Paris, in a suburb known as Nozay, we received orders to stop. Our Captain John Gorn radioed back, “Why do you want us to stop? We’re right on the outskirts of Paris?!”

He was told that General LeClerc, the famous French General, wanted the honor of marching into a liberated Paris, so the Americans should wait until he accomplished that.

‘That’s a bunch of BS, we’re going in!’ . . . said Captain Gorn, and so we did. We were the first Allied troops to liberate Paris.

After the third day of being in Paris they moved us to Vincennes Park, which reminded me a lot of Balboa Park in San Diego. The German’s bombed the hell out of us but we didn’t have any casualties.”

Jack told of another interesting tidbit about wartime and the liberation of Paris.

hold the position into 2024 as the County conducts extensive local engagement about what the community is seeking in the next leader of HHSA. The agency oversees numerous programs and has nearly 8,000 employees who directly provide services to more than a third of the region’s residents.

The appointment is to replace Director Nick Macchione, who announced his retirement on May 31, effective June 27.

Dr. McDonald’s selection was endorsed by County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Nora Vargas.

Following a distinguished 24year career in the U.S. Navy, Dr. McDonald joined the County in 2010 as a deputy public health officer. In 2015, he became the medical director of Epidemiology and Immunization Services and was promoted in 2021 as the Agency’s chief medical officer

“All military units had a chaplain within their unit. Ours happened to be a Catholic priest. Father Fraes ordered all the men in our unit who were Catholic to stay behind so they could attend mass at Notre Dame Cathedral. This was a big deal to the Catholic soldiers. After our three days in Paris, the rest of us moved on to San Quentin, then on into Belgium.

We hit the Siegfreid Line and we had Patton’s tanks with us. We cracked the line in three or four places.

We then got involved in what I think was the hardest fighting of all our combats. Hurtgen Forest. The worst battles ever. You had to keep your head down all the time or you were a goner. Frostbite got a lot of us. The firefights were unbelievable. You literally risked your life when you tried to take a bathroom break.

It was in the Hurtgen Forest where I got my next promotion. They jumped me up to Staff Sergeant. They offered me a battlefield commission but I declined it. I didn’t want to be a 2nd Lieutenant. I just wanted to get out of the war alive. I had a great deal of respect for 1st Lieutenants but damned little for anyone at the level of Captain or greater. All they seemed interested in was nominating themselves for medals.

We had about 180-200 men in our unit when the combat began in the

and director of the newly established Medical Care Services Department.

“I am very honored to accept this interim position as our Agency and the County experience leadership transitions on several fronts,” said Dr. McDonald. “My focus will be on ensuring the incredible positive momentum continues in the Agency’s work with the community to improve wellbeing for all San Diegans, delivering services and solving problems in an evidence-based way.”

The Health and Human Services Agency operates programs designed to help all 3.3 million San Diego County residents live well. Its eight service departments include Self-Sufficiency Services, Aging & Independence Services, Behavioral Health Services, Child Welfare Services, Public Health Services, Housing & Community Development Services, Homeless Solutions and Equitable Communities, and Medical Care Services.

Jack Port continued on page 12

5th District Supervisor Jim Desmond

Assembly Nonprofit of the Year Congestion Pricing

1982 and later moved to its present location on the Barona Reservation. SIHC provides culturally sensitive, high-quality medical care, dental care, behavioral health and social services, while respecting the traditions of the Native American population it serves. SIHC also operates the first Native American Boys & Girls Club in California.

We’ve known for a while now that SANDAG, the Federal Government, and the State of California have been looking to implement a per-mile tax. This hasn’t been met with enthusiasm by voters throughout the country. However, now there’s a synonym for the per-mile tax that is making its way to Southern California - “congestion pricing.”

of dollars. Instead of allowing the market to dictate the conditions, the government is obsessed with punishing the majority who drive to pay for the few who take public transit.

On June 7, California’s annual Nonprofits Day ceremony was held on the South Lawn of the State Capitol. The ceremony salutes nonprofits that do so much to improve our communities and enhance our lives. This year, 113 nonprofits from throughout California were honored.

I was very pleased to recognize the Southern Indian Health Council (SIHC), based in Alpine, as the 75th Assembly District’s Nonprofit of the Year for 2023. SIHC serves seven local tribes in southeast San Diego County, including Barona, Campo, Ewiiaapaayp, Jamul, La Posta, Manzanita and Viejas. SHIC began as a satellite of the Indian Health Council in Pauma Valley, incorporated as a nonprofit, public benefit corporation in November

The California Association of Nonprofits (CalNonprofits) a statewide organization that advocates for nonprofits and the communities they serve, organizes Nonprofits Day in Sacramento. I’m happy to report that this session a package of bills supported by CalNonprofits is sailing through the Legislature. The bill package will streamline application and reporting requirements for small grants, require the state to provide nonprofit partners the full costs of delivering contracted services, and move more administrative processes online, among other reforms. More details on this important legislation are available here.

It’s an honor to recognize and support nonprofit organizations like SIHC. They are part of the very fabric of our state -- the well-being of thousands depends on their continued success.

Assemblymember Marie Waldron, RValley 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.

A Word from San Marcos Mayor Rebecca Jones Summertime music fun

Tickets at the door will be available for $10, cash only. To guarantee your concert series tickets, consider becoming a season pass holder for just $24 to enjoy music all summer long.

Check Out The Band Lineup

June 24

Skelpin (Irish Folk music)

July 15

Louie Cruz Beltran (Latin Jazz)

August 26

Tony Suraci (Outlaw Country)

According to reports, LA Metro is preparing to release a blueprint for congestion pricing, meaning that motorists will have to pay for the privilege of using the freeways. This proposed tax is another way to charge hardworking individuals even more for accessing the same roads their gas taxes should fund.

SANDAG is looking at doing something similar to over 800 miles of San Diego County freeway lanes.

This proposal is emblematic of a broader trend that we are witnessing across the country and the world. As I’ve highlighted, SANDAG is still trying to implement a per-mile fee on drivers. New York City is also looking at implementing congestion pricing.

And the reality is we will see this type of tax more and more as public transit ridership continues to decrease and lose billions

Help!

There is a concerted effort to change our behavior and tax us out of our vehicles rather than investing in improving our freeways’ efficiency, safety, and cleanliness. SANDAG’s finance plan states, “Charging fees for the transportation infrastructure that people use—for example, charging users for each mile they drive on the highway—can change travel behavior.”

Government agendas should not be used to change behavior by taxing us into fixed-rail trains and buses. Instead of changing behavior, government entities should incentivize technology and innovation. Government should embrace what most people are already choosing and make it cleaner, safer, and more efficient.

The people have spoken; they choose the freedom of movement, not broken promises or additional taxes.

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

Problem Solved

by Christopher Elliott

Sears promises to cover the cost of Wanda Warren’s dishwasher installation. Then it offers her a check for $180 -- which isn’t enough. Does it owe her more?

Q: I have a Sears protection agreement on a replacement dishwasher. The terms clearly state that replacement items include delivery and basic installation.

expects me to remove it myself.

I want Sears to honor its agreement or give me a refund. I want Sears to remove the old unit, install the new unit, haul the old one away and be finished with it! Can you help me?

~ Wanda Warren, Hampton, Va.

What better way to end your summer day in San Marcos than to join your fellow community members at the San Marcos Summer Concert Series! Gates open at 6 p.m. while the concerts begin at 7:30 p.m.

The concert series is being held at the beautiful Wood House in Woodland Park, 1148 Rock Springs Road. Pre-sale tickets are only $8.

September 23

James Kruk (Elvis tribute artist)

Be sure to pack a comfy chair and some blankets to keep warm and lay on the lawn. Please note, no pets are allowed at the concert series. Purchase your tickets online at https://anc.apm. activecommunities.com/sanmarcosreg/activity/search and type the word concert in the search bar.

But now Sears is telling me that I have to get the installation done myself, and they will send a check for $180 to cover the cost of installation.

I can’t find someone to install my dishwasher at that price. The lowest bid I have is $220. Sears also wants the old dishwasher back, but

A: I’m sorry to hear about your dishwasher. Sears should have been clearer about what it would -- and would not -- cover.

I asked Sears about the reimbursement. It said your agreement does cover installation but not other items that may be billed during an

left to right: Assemblymember Marie Waldron; Laura Quaha Parkhurst, Southern Indian Health Council COO; Laura Caswell, CEO

By Tom Morrow

For those vaguely interested in world history you’ll find the month of June plays an important part in the annals of World War II, mankind’s most horrific conflict.

During the days of June 4 through June 7, 1942, America’s first major offensive engagement took place around a small Pacific atoll known as Midway Island. It had been one of the so-called “Stepping Stones” for Pan American Airways’ refueling stops on the way to and from Hong Kong and other Oriental ports of call. Other “stones” across the vast Pacific included Wake Island. Guam, and the Philippines.

The Battle of Midway was the first great victory the U.S. had over the Japanese. The Navy sprung a surprise attack on a Japanese battle group in the Pacific, just northeast of Midway. The waiting three

Historically Speaking The 2 Defining WWII Battles

U.S. carriers surprised a four-carrier Japanese battle group winning the first major clash of the Pacific campaign.

Jump ahead some two years to June 6, 1944, Thousands of lives were lost when the largest amphibious landing in history was launched by the Allied forces of Great Britain, Canada, and the U.S. along the beaches of Normandy in northern France. It was known as “D-Day,” the initial offensive to free Europe from the occupation of Nazi Germany.

America was successful in both operations. Midway stopped the Japanese from proceeding any further toward the U.S. coast, and D-Day was the beginning of freeing France, Holland, Belgium, and Denmark from the occupying Germans.

In the Pacific, Naval code breakers determined the date and location of the planned Japanese attack on Midway, enabling the Navy to prepare its ambush. American bombers, torpedo, and fighter planes pounced on the unsuspecting enemy force positioned just some 150 miles north of Midway atoll, inflicting devastating damage, including the loss of four carriers and one battle cruiser.

Military historians have called the Midway engagement, “… the most stunning and decisive blow in the history of naval warfare. It was one of the most consequential victories both tactically decisive and strategically influential.”

There were heavy air battle losses on both sides, but the Japanese lost the most, especially since their pilots were caught running low on fuel with no carrier to land upon.

The Battle of Midway, along with the Guadalcanal campaign, is widely considered a turning point in the Pacific War. The Japanese did not know the U.S. had broken parts of their main code, divulging many details of their war plans.

Travel Troubleshooter

by Christopher Elliott

IcelandAir Changed My Flights Can I get a refund for my tour?

Charged $7,853 by Wells Fargo after visiting a bar in Istanbul -- is this fraud?

Nicholas Butler gets charged $7,853 at a bar in Istanbul under shady circumstances. Will his bank step up and help him undo the charges?

Q: While I was on vacation in Istanbul last year, I fell victim to a scam by some local thugs. They ran a “club” where they persuaded single male tourists to come in. Then they coerced them into paying thousands of dollars for bogus drinks (“champagne” that was cider and water, for example). They made it impossible to leave without the threat of violence.

Once I was inside, it was clear that the locals I had come with were working with the “club” to lure tourists in and bilk them of their money. I played dumb, real-

izing I had no choice but to stay; there was one exit down a flight of stairs and a bouncer who made sure no one was leaving until they got their money. Some charges they made me sign for; others they continued to charge to my card now that they had it.

They charged me on two credit cards: one Wells Fargo card and one Chase card. I eventually was able to leave and contacted both credit card companies the next day. I also filed a police report, which I provided to Wells and Chase. The police were aware of this fraudulent establishment and showed me mug shots of the owner, who I recognized. Immediately after I filed my police report, another tourist came in complaining of the same club with the same problem—only he had tried to leave. They threw him down the stairs.

Chase reversed the charges imme-

diately. But Wells Fargo allowed every charge to go through that night. I contacted Wells Fargo’s fraud department, told them what happened, and sent them the police report. Weeks later, they informed me that this could not be handled as fraud. They then said they had transferred the problem to Disputes. Disputes told me it was being handled by the Fraud department. Fraud sent it back to Disputes.

Meanwhile, they reinstated the charges without any notice. Wells Fargo has dragged its feet on this issue for almost three months. I’ve called them several times to see if there was any update. In the most recent call, it became clear that they hadn’t read the police report I gave them. They asked me ridiculously basic questions, which indicated they had done nothing whatsoever about the case and had done no research of any kind.

The D-Day Normandy invasion consisted of landing operations and associated airborne assault which was officially known as “Operation Overlord,” the largest seaborne invasion in world history.

The weather on D-Day, originally planned for June 5, was far from ideal, and the operation had to be delayed 24 hours; a further delay would have meant waiting at least two weeks, as the invasion planners had requirements for the phase of the moon, the tides, and the time of day that meant only a few days each month were deemed suitable.

The $7,853 charge has left me extremely stressed out about my finances. I am between jobs and need the money. Can you help? -Nicholas Butler, San Francisco A: Wells Fargo should have quickly refunded your money. Wait, scratch that -- it should have never charged your credit card. Why? Well, $8,000 at a bar in Istanbul should have triggered its fraud detection algorithms. Wells Fargo’s algorithms are highly sensitive in my experience, and it should have flagged a charge of this size quickly. I’m surprised it didn’t.

What happened? Wells Fargo has two separate departments -- one for fraud, the other for

D-Day Landing

Aerial view of Midway

Oodles from page 3

Barbershop Harmony Society Far Western District champs.

The concert will follow a reception from 2:45 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. with beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction.

Tickets are $25.00 and can be purchased by emailing Tickets@PacificCoastHarmony.org or by calling (619) HARMONY /427-6669.

Pacific Coast Harmony is an a cappella ensemble based in La Jolla, California, under the direction of Bonnie McKibben, an award-winning director, quartet champion, and recording artist.

PCH is proud to be a chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society.

For more information, visit PacificCoastharmony.org or call (619) 427-6669.

Open Rehearsal

Vista Hill Chorus

June 20 • 7pm to 10pm

Encinitas Church of christ

926 2nd St., Encinitas

Vista Hills Chorus of Sweet Adelines International invites you to join our open rehearsal.

Do you love to sing? Did you enjoy singing in high school or college? Do you think it would be fun to sing in a women’s a cappella group? If singing is your thing, Vista Hills Chorus may be what you’ve been looking for. Immerse yourself in the joy of 4-part a cappella harmony at our upcoming Open House event.

We warmly welcome women and non-binary treble singers across all vocal ranges. No formal singing experience is necessary.

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June CBAD Happy Hour

June 21 • 5 - 7 pm

New Village Arts in Carlsbad Village

Eat, drink, and connect at our monthly CBAD Happy Hour. Our next one is coming up on Wednesday, June 21 at the beautifully renovated New Village Arts Theater in Carlsbad Village. Sign up today and feel free to share this event with a friend. register at https:// web.carlsbad.org/atlas/events/ cbadhappy%20hour%20%20%20 %20new%20village%20arts%20 theatre-3255/register

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Oodles

continued on page 10

Chuckles

from page 2

Louisiana

A senior citizen in Louisiana was overheard saying ... “When the end of the world comes, I hope to be in Louisiana .”

When asked why, he replied, “I’d rather be in Louisiana ‘cause everythang happens in Louisiana 20 years later than in the rest of the world.”

North Carolina

A man in North Carolina had a flat tire, pulled off on the side of the road, and proceeded to put a bouquet of flowers in front of the car and one behind it. Then he got back in the car to wait.

A passerby studied the scene as he drove by, and was so curious he turned around and went back. He asked the fellow what the problem was.

The man replied, “I got a flat tahr.”

The passerby asked, “But what’s with the flowers?”

The man responded, “When you break down they tell you to put flares in the front and flares in the back. I never did understand it neither.”

Tennessee

A Tennessee State trooper pulled over a pickup on I-65. The trooper asked, “Got any ID?”

The driver replied, “Bout whut?”

Texas

The Sheriff pulled up next to the guy unloading garbage out of his pick-up into the ditch. The Sheriff asked, “Why are you dumping garbage in the ditch? Don’t you see that sign right over your head.”

“Yep,” he replied. “That’s why I’m dumpin’ it here, ‘cause it says: ‘Fine For Dumping Garbage.’ “

Y’all kin say whut y’all want ‘about the South, but y’all never heard O nobody retirin’ an’ movin’ North. •••••

1. What do you get when you toss a hand grenade into a kitchen in France?

Linoleum blownapart.

2. A city in Alaska passed a law outlawing all dogs. It became known as Dogless Fairbanks.

3. Which famous golfer loves to drink wine? Litre Vino.

4. A man goes to a dermatologist with a rare skin disease. The doctor says, “Try a milk bath.”

So the guy goes to the grocery store and tells the dairy manager he needs enough milk to take a bath. The dairy guys asks, “You want that pasteurized?”

“Nah,” the man replied “Up to my chin should do it.”

5. What’s the difference between an angry circus owner and a Roman barber?

One is a raving showman, and the other is a shaving Roman.

Pet Parade

Portobello is pet of the week at your Rancho Coastal Humane Society. He’s a 9-month-old, 62pound, male, Shepherd mix.

Portobello was born at a rescue in the Imperial Valley. After his mother was adopted, he and his 5 siblings were transferred to Rancho Coastal Humane Society through Friends of County Animal Shelters (FOCAS.) He’s an adolescent who needs a patient family.

The $145 adoption fee for Portobello includes medical exam, neuter, up to date vaccinations, registered microchip, and a one-year license if her new home is in the jurisdiction of San Diego Humane Society. For more information visit Rancho Coastal Humane Society at 389 Requeza Street in Encinitas, call 760-753-6413, or log on to www. SDpets.org.

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

Oodles from page 9

We ♥ Caregivers

Community Event & Resource Fair

June 22nd • 10:30am - 2pm

8460 Mira Mesa Blvd, San Diego (Mira Mesa Senior Center)

The Caregiver Coalition of San Diego and the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA)-Aging & Independence Services invite you to attend We ♥ Caregivers: Community Event & Resource Fair!

This is a free event.

The We ♥ Caregivers: Community Event & Resource Fair provides information for those caring for loved ones across the age spectrum.

• Hear from experts in the field who will provide tips and tools to support the caregiver journey.

• Visit resource tables to learn about valuable local services from Caregiver Coalition of San Diego members.

• Free lunch for registered participants.

• Opportunity drawing for attendees at the event conclusion!

Register now on Eventbrite: https:// bit.ly/WeLoveCaregivers2023

If you are unable to register online, please call Erika Sosa with Aging & Independence Services: 858495-5039 ***

Worlds Largest Swim Lesson

June 22 • 10am to 2pm

Las Posas Pool

1387 W. Borden Road

Woodland Park Pool

671 Woodland Parkway

Be a part of the Worlds Largest Swim Lesson! These free events are for you and your family to come together to swim, and learn about water safety!

• Sponsored Local Food

• San Marcos Fire Department: CPR demo

• Complimentary Swim Lesson Level Evaluations

• Coloring Booth

• Water Safety Activity Stations

• Free Open Rec Swim

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A Historic Look of Escondido June 22 • 6:00–7:00 pm

Escondido Library

Turrentine Room

Learn about the history of Escondido’s Commercial District—the interesting history of the buildings and the shopkeepers who once worked on Grand and Broadway. The past will come alive through the photographs of the bank buildings, storefronts, and telephone company that once graced this historic intersection

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Escondido Library 1/2 Price Sale

Friends Bookshop

June 23 & 24

All items in the store 50% OFF marked price (25¢ minimum) Only cash payment accepted.

Oodles

continued on page 13

Pet of the Week

Meet Flopsy, a friendly and curious dog who greets people (and life) with a gently wagging tail and a sense of curiosity! This stunning shepherd has a friendly nature and is always excited to meet new people. Flopsy’s curious nature makes her an excellent companion for those who enjoy exploring new places and trying new activities! Whether it’s going for a walk in the park or meeting new friends, Flopsy makes every outing more exciting. This girl is guaranteed to bring a whole lot of love, joy and dventure into your life! Flopsy 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/animalsingle.html?petId=862272

Portobello

The Computer Factory

Last week we began this three part series on Internet based criminal activity or “cybercrime” (scams). If the Internet was a country and “cybercrime” was its GNP (gross national product), at a 16% annual growth rate, it would be the World’s fastest growing economy. In 2023 its size (between 9 and 10 trillion US dollars) would make it the World’s third largest economy after the USA ($21trillion) and China ($17 trillion) and before Japan ($5 trillion). Billionaire businessman and philanthropist Warren Buffet calls cybercrime the “number one problem with mankind” and cyber attacks “a bigger threat to humanity than nuclear weapons.”

In terms of dollars lost, the money stolen from governments and corporations dwarfs the amount of money scammed from individuals and small businesses, but it is

Internet Scams Cost Americans 10.3 Billion Dollars in 2022 (FBI) Part II of III

important to understand that all of these losses are passed directly on to each of us in the form of higher taxes, fees and prices. Cybercrime losses by corporations and governments are beyond our control, but we can do something to reduce our own vulnerability to cybercrime.

The number and type of ways to rob you on the Internet is breathtaking. The number and type of electronic defense devices is equally mindboggling. Even if you adopt and incorporate every cybercrime defense mechanism in the universe, your security can still be compromised. Your bank, Internet provider, insurance company, utility, medical practitioner, school, social security account, credit card, and anyone else who has your personal data can be hacked and your records stolen. With your information the cybercriminal can open bank accounts, get credit cards, make loans all in your name and do pretty much anything that you can do using your stolen information. While not perfect, the single best cybercrime protection device available for home and small business users is the one that controls the curser and keyboard, that’s you.

Cybercrime is a numbers game. When the lonely Russian lady with the big boobs and “damsel in distress” look says she just needs someone to talk to, 98% of us smell a rat. That leaves the remaining 2% to get sucked into an emotional long

distance relationship that eventually costs them money. When WallMart says they’ve selected you to receive a free set of tools, or Marriot offers you a weekend room at a Las Vegas resort, most of us hang up the phone or send the E- mail notice to the spam locker without a second thought, but then there’s that 2%.

Most of us are pretty good at avoiding the kind of scams that are specifically designed to snare only the most gullible. Probably the most successful scams are the Phishing scams. The FBI defines “phishing” as “the use of unsolicited email, text messages, and telephone calls purportedly from a legitimate company requesting personal, financial, and/or login credentials.” Whether by phone,

E-mail, or a notice or warning on your PC, “phishing” exploits are the most common and successful cybercrime attacks on home and small business users. Often using some of our personal information and seeming to originate from reliable sources, these exploits typically address subjects that are of interest or concern to us.

Single user home and small business systems are most easily protected by educating the user on how to recognize and avoid criminal exploits. When there are two or more users on a single PC or if the PC is part of a LAN, things get much more complicated. Next week we conclude this series with the ways to avoid getting victimized by phishing exploits and what to do if you do fall victim.

Panic and urgency are always red flags for me. There was no time to think about whether you wanted to adopt a dog. No time to meet this dog or consider whether it would be a good fit for you. Just an urgent threat that the dog would die unless

someone adopted it NOW!

The underlying message was that “YOU must do something. If this dog dies, it’s YOUR fault.” The dog’s previous owner wasn’t responsible. Shelter overcrowding was not the issue. It was somehow our fault. We had to do something right away.

Members of the rescue group could foster this dog to save its life. The thread of comments on the post said, “I would take him, but….”

• They couldn’t take the dog because it would interfere with their weekend plans.

• It would make them sad.

• It takes too long to fill out the application.

• They would help this dog, but there were so many others who needed

help and they would feel guilty if they helped this one and not all the others.

My friend contacted the rescue and asked where the dog was. They didn’t want to tell her. Could she meet the dog?

No, because they didn’t have the dog. They didn’t have the dog?

While I’m still confused by all this, I will say thank you to the rescue group for trying to help. But with-

holding information and creating confusion is probably not the best way to go about it.

So, what happened? The dog was NOT put down when the original post said it would be. In fact, it was adopted from the shelter where it had been staying all along. At last report, it was cozy in its kennel, waiting for the family that adopted it to pick it up and take it home.

This story began with an email from a friend and I’m still not sure how I feel about it. She had received information from a rescue group about a dog who “MUST be adopted today or will be euthanized tomorrow.”

Jack Port

from page 5

Hurtgen Forest. We had about 90 at the end, a great many of them lost to frostbite. I had frostbite on my right hand and I remember this buddy of mine took my hand and placed it under his armpit to warm my hand. He was killed the next day.

It’s really hard to know and understand war unless and until you’ve been in the thick of it. I’ve seen close buddies die, some with their guts streaming out of their bodies; others just disappeared; some lost arms, some lost legs; we all lost something out there. We’d see one of our buddies get hit, we’d call for a Medic, and we’d move on. There was no other choice.

Jack and his unit was finally relieved. They were moved to Luxembourg for rest, relaxation, and recuperation. Fresh clothes, showers, and they had been moved by truck! No more long marches. Or so it seemed.

“We woke up one morning to find the town of Eupen had been retaken by the Germans. They were only 30 kilometers from us . . . and were behind us! Some rest and recuperation! We were cut off from our other units and I manned a machine gun for five days!

Bastogne was near us as well and they were going through hell. Finally, the weather cleared and our Air Corps came in and saved the day.

While we were in France the Germans bombed the hell out of the cities, towns and villages. They didn’t care how much damage they did. Later, however, when we finally entered Germany, they moved away from the towns and villages and took to the hills because they didn’t want us to destroy their towns and villages.

While on this campaign we fought with the 442nd Regiment, an all Japanese Volunteer Unit; one of the finest units we ever fought with. Strange. We fought with the Japanese volunteer unit . . .but there were no African Americans allowed to be in combat. They were restricted to menial jobs . . . as hospital orderlies, or kitchen help. And today our Commander in Chief is African-American.”

We continued on into the German town of Prun . . .then we liberated Munich. There was lots of open country so the tanks moved freely. We liberated two concentration camps, though I didn’t participate in that action, nor did I ever enter a camp.

We were just outside of Austria when the war ended in May of 1945.

I remember a ‘Willie and Joe’ cartoon in the Stars and Stripes newspaper. It showed these two sad-sack soldiers with one saying . . . “If every person had to do one day of combat, there’d never be another war.’

That was right on target. It hit home with all of us.”

It was time to go home. The Army had come up with a plan to determine who went home first. It as a point system. You got five points for each medal. Jack had a Purple Heart, a Bronze Star, the D-Day Landing medal . . .there’s 15 points. You got one point for every month of service. Jack had been in for almost two years . . .but others had been in four, five years. Jack wasn’t scheduled to go home under the point system but, remember those strange twists of fate in Jack’s military career?

It happened again.

Those soldiers who had less than 110 points were to be shipped back stateside to undergo jungle training, and then be shipped to the Pacific Theatre of War.

“At that point I had it,” said Jack. “I had been in contact with the enemy for 199 straight days and I was fed up with war. I was not going to the Pacific. I’ve had it!”

So Jack came home to North Carolina for jungle training. And then a funny thing happened. Another one of those twists of fate.

The war in Japan ended.

Jack was given a 30 day furlough

and came home to Escondido, then returned to North Carolina to get his discharge. He cheerfully became an ordinary citizen again.

Jack has never gone back to England. He has way too many friends in France to spend valuable time in England. Friends who have become like family. He has gone back a number of times to visit Normandy, the beaches . . . Omaha, Utah, as well as the British and Canadian beacheshe has stood on a podium at Normandy with Senator John Kerry. He has town Mayors and its citizens who treat him as though he were King. They’ve held parades in his honor.

“The French love the Americans,” he says. “And they love me . . . and I love them right back. It’s always a treat to go back and visit my ‘families’ in France.”

Remember earlier, when we talked a bit about medals? Jack accumulated quite a few. We only touched on several. How’s this for a list of medals:

Order National de La Legion D ‘ Honneur.

Belgium Fourrgere Medal

Libertee Medal of Bayeux

European Campaign Medal ...5 Campaigns

D Day Landing Medal

Bronze Star Medal

Purple Heart

WW II Victory Medal

France Overlord Medal

WW IIAmerican Campaign Medal

European Occupation Medal

Presidential Citation Medal

“This past June I was invited by the Duke and Duchess of Luxembourg to receive their Legion Of Honneur. Be their guest for one week but was unable to because I already had made commitments

to be part of the D Day ceremonies the first week of June..... Their ceremony was to be the last week of June and there was no way I could spend 10 days or two weeks over there to wait for that ceremony.”

Quite a story for a young kid who was born in Los Angeles, but moved to Escondido around 1927 or 1928 at the tender young age of 4 or 5.

His family came from humble beginnings, living briefly in Mexicali before his mom said, ‘no, I can’t raise my family here. We are going to move.” They drove into Southern California and approached Lake Hodges. When they saw Escondido, that was going to become their home. They had $14 and three kids.

There were only about 1100 people in the valley at that time. It was a financial struggle at first but, one day, after several other jobs, Jack’s dad bought six Chambray shirts. He sold them at a profit to a number of migrant workers and other farm workers . . . and bought more. Eventually, Jack’s dad opened Port’s Men’s Wear, at 214 East Grand Avenue, in downtown Escondido, an upscale men’s clothing store.

After the war, young Jack went to work there and stayed there till he closed the store and retired in 1975.

Before the war, Jack had worked at Consolidated Aircraft, later to become Convair. He kept getting deferments from the draft. He was safe. But he didn’t like the deferment. A war was on and he felt it was his patriotic duty to be part of it. So, he volunteered for the draft and, well, the rest is history.

Jack will tell you he’s no hero. He’s just another soldier who did his duty.

Maybe.

But a lot of us, knowing what he’s been through, knowing the sights, the sounds, the horrible smells, the terrible physical and emotional pain he’s experienced, join his many French admirers, offer up a salute, tip our hats and say, “well done, Jack.”

Jack Port, longtime Escondido resident and businessman, with his wife, Elaine, now living in Oceanside, one of the few surviving members of the D-Day invasion on Utah Beach, and a veteran to whom North San Diego County residents say a simple “thanks for your service. Thanks for your sacrifice.”

Jack and Tom Brokaw, at Normandy, France

Oodles

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

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Blood Drive Hosted by Valley Center Chamber

June 28 • 11am to 4pm

Armstrong Feed

28520 S. Cole Grade Road Valley Center

The Chamber is happy to host another blood drive as we head into summer. Click on the link below to sign up today. The Blood Mobile will be parking at Armstrong Feed & Supply. Chamber member Swag Bags will be given to all who stop by and say Hi.

All donors will receive a Padres Summer Blood Drive t-shirt.

While supplies last and sizes subject to availability.

To schedule an appointment call 619-400-8251 or visit sandiegobloodbank.org/donate. ***

Beginning Genealogy Workshop

June 29 • 6:30 –7:30 p.m.

Escondido Library

Pioneer Room

Discover tips and tricks to learn more about your family history with free Library tools like Ancestry.com and FamilySearch. Beth McIntyre, Pioneer Room volunteer and genealogy researcher of more than 30 years will get you started with a free four-generation chart and other helpful materials.

Want to get ahead? Write down any information you find from items in your home, like family Bibles, birth certificates, and photo albums. Registration is required to use a computer for this event. register at https://library.escondido. org/register.aspx

HELP WANTED

Drivers Wanted Part Time!

Monday-Friday Split Shift

$16.63 an hour CALL TODAY 760-721-1706 Or APPLY at www.teriinc.org

THOMPSON

Let

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A Walking Tour of Escondido

Thursday, June 29, 2023

11:00 am–12:30 pm

Escondido Library

Pioneer Room Room

A leisurely paced walking tour of the heart of Escondido’s Commercial District. Learn about the history of the buildings and storefronts and the stories of the shopkeepers who once worked at this historic intersection.

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Escondido Chamber

Installation and Awards Dinner

June 30 • 5pm to 9pm

California Center of the Arts 340 N. Escondido Blvd. • Escondido

Join the Greater Escondido Chamber of Commerce in honoring business excellence in Escondido at our 112th Annual Installation & Awards Dinner. We will be celebrating our new Board of Directors & Ambassadors. Let’s have a roaring good time with food, drinks, and festive entertainment! The dress code for the evening is flapper dresses and jazz suits, and the theme this year is...a drum roll, please...The Greater Gatsby Gala! For more information visit greaterescondido.org ***

to sustain safe, healthy and thriving communities.

Shows run May through October, in neighborhoods from the beach to the desert, and everything in between. Each movie event gives residents a reason to visit their local parks after dark, deterring inappropriate loitering and park use, and bringing additional safety and security to residents’ favorite locales.

Events begin as early as 6 p.m., though actual movie start times are 15 minutes after sunset. Before the movie, many locations provide additional entertainment like arts and crafts, games, costume contests, music, dancing and food trucks.

Movies, dates and locations are subject to change. For more information, visit summermoviesinthepark.com.

tions before you purchased a replacement dishwasher with Sears. It appears there were a few things that got lost in translation, including the cost to you and the requirement to remove the old dishwasher and return it to Sears. By the way, Sears mentions all of that in its terms and conditions, but whoever sold you the replacement should have also informed you of the requirements.

Your case is a reminder to the rest of us to always to read the fine print. But it’s also a teachable moment for Sears. If you’re confused, chances are there are also a lot of other confused customers. And Sears needs all the loyal customers it can get right now.

Problem Solved

from page 6

installation, such as permit fees, code upgrades, any modifications needed to the space, or any additional electrical or plumbing work not already done for the existing installation. (You said this was not the case in your replacement installation.)

Ultimately, you could have also appealed to a manager at Sears. I list the names, numbers and email addresses of the Sears customer service managers on my consumer advocacy site, Elliott.org. A short, polite email to one of them might have helped.

I contacted Sears on your behalf. A representative apologized for the delay in responding to you and offered to reimburse her the difference between the cost of your repair and initial offer.

Summer Movies

In The Park

Summer Movies in the Park is the largest free and family-friendly outdoor movie series in San Diego County, with dozens of hosting sites and over a hundred screenings. It launched in 2007 as a ‘take back our parks’ initiative – in sync with the County’s Live Well vision

That’s disappointing because most customers think of an installation like you do. A technician shows up at your home, installs the appliance, does whatever work is necessary, and then hands you an invoice. The details don’t really matter to us. But they do to Sears, which parses the bill so that it doesn’t have to cover all the expenses.

You reviewed your agreements with other Sears appliances going back to 2000, and they have the same wording as the current agreement.

You may have been able to sidestep this problem by asking ques-

Sears sent you a check for $180. You had the new dishwasher installed. Your total charge came to $195 for the installation, which did not include the removal. Sears offered you an additional $100, but you are still waiting for it. Oh, Sears. Really?

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.

The Mighty Mojo Page

Coins & Loans Printing Solar & Roofing

760-745-1697

Escondido Coin & Loan, Inc.

www.escondidocoin.com

Historically Speaking

from page 7

The amphibious landings were preceded by extensive aerial and naval bombardment and an airborne assault—the landing of 24,000 American, British, and Canadian airborne troops shortly after midnight. Allied infantry and armored divisions began landing on the coast of France at 6:30, a.m. The target: a 50-mile stretch of the Normandy coast divided into five sectors: Utah, Omaha, (assigned to the U..S Army), the British had Gold and Sword; Juno was assigned to the Canadians. Strong winds blew the landing craft east of their intended positions, particularly at Utah and Omaha. The men landed under heavy fire from gun emplacements overlooking the

Travel Troubleshooter

from page 7

chargebacks. Neither department wanted to handle your charge, so they were going back and forth. Meanwhile, you refused to pay your credit card bill, so the dispute started to affect your credit report.

There’s a way to break this impasse. You can contact a manager at Wells Fargo. I publish the names, numbers and email addresses of the Wells Fargo executives on my consumer advocacy site, Elliott.org. A brief, polite email to one of them might have gotten this fixed. Wells Fargo’s credit cards have a “Zero Liability” protection and say you won’t be held responsible for any promptly reported unauthorized card transactions. Clearly, the charges to your card were made without your authorization.

I contacted Wells Fargo on your behalf. It reversed your charges and also helped you clear up the problem with your credit score.

Christopher Elliott is the founder of Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that helps consumers solve their problems. Email him at chris@elliott.org or get help by contacting him on his site.

© 2023 Christopher Elliott.

ALOHA PRINTING

beaches, and the shore was mined and covered with obstacles such as wooden stakes, metal tripods, and barbed wire, making the work of the beach-clearing teams difficult and dangerous.

Casualties were heaviest at Omaha, with its high cliffs of Pointe du Hoc. Allied reinforcements arrived by glider bringing additional troo ps and heavy equipment. Even those gliders that landed on target experienced difficulty, with heavy cargo such as Jeeps shifting during landing, crashing through the wooden fuselage, and in some cases crushing troops on board.

Omaha Beach was the most heav-

ily defended by the Germans. For fear of hitting the landing craft, U.S. bombers delayed releasing their bombs and as a result most of the beach obstacles at Omaha remained undamaged when the men came ashore. Many of the landing craft ran aground on sandbars, and the men had to wade in water up to their necks while under fire.

Today at Omaha Beach, a memorial to the U.S. National Guard sits at the location of a former German strongpoint. Pointe du Hoc high above Omaha Beach is little changed from 1944, with the terrain covered with bomb craters

and most of the concrete German bunkers still in place. Several museums are nearby.

The official British history gives an estimated figure of 156,115 men landed on D-Day. This comprised 57,500 Americans and 75,215 British and Canadians from the sea and 15,500 Americans and 7,900 British from the air. The original estimate for Allied casualties was 10,000, of which 2,500 were killed. Research under way by the National D-Day Memorial has confirmed 4,414 deaths, of which 2,499 were American and 1,915 were from other Allied nations.

San Diego Humane Society is supporting families and their pets who need a little extra help.

Through the Community Pet Pantry, anyone can visit our campuses to pick up a bag of dog or cat food, and other supplies, as available.

No appointment is needed for this service. Hours are Tuesday-Sunday from 10am to 6pm.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9007985

The name of the business: In The Cut Barber and Beauty Lounge, located at 918 Mission Ave., Unit 115, Oceanside, CA 92054. Registrant Information: Kristy Rogers, 29538 Major League, Lake Elsinore, CA 92530 and Tatyanna Lackritz, 6779 Heath Ct., Carlsbad, CA 92011. This business is operated by a General Partnership. First day of business:

3/1/2023

/s/ Kristy Rogers with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 4/11/2023

4/27, 5/4, 5/11, 5/18/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9009858

The name of the business: The Garage 86 Automotive Excellence, located at 2364 Auto Park Way, Escondido, CA 92029. Registrant Information: Johnny Duong, 30171 Emerald Ln, Hemet, CA 92543. This business is operated by an individual. First day of business: N/A

/s/ Johnny Duong with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 4/25/2023

5/11, 5/18, 5/25, 6/1/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9010512

The name of the business: K&K Sewer Inspectors, located at 676 Tukmal Dr., Oceanside, CA 92058. Registrant Information:

Brian A. Samoska, 676 Tukmal Dr., Oceanside, CA 92058. This business is operated by an individual. First day of business:

N/A

/s/ Brian A. Samoska with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 5/12/2023

5/18, 5/25, 6/1, 6/8/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME

STATEMENT 2023-9010438

The name of the business: Tirocchi

Construction, located at 5147 Morro Hills Pl., Fallbrook, CA 92028. Registrant Information: Richard A. Tirocchi, 5147 Morro Hills Pl., Fallbrook, CA 92028. This business is operated by an individual. First day of business:

5/11/2023

/s/ Richard Tirocchi with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 5/11/2023

5/18, 5/25, 6/1, 6/8/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9010562

The name of the business: The Junk Remover, located at 4850 Concho Cir., Oceanside, CA 92057. Registrant Information: Isaac charles Dailey Jr., 4850 Concho Cir., Oceanside, CA 92057. This business is operated by an individual. First day of business: N/A

/s/ Isaac Charles Dailey Jr. with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 5/12/2023

5/18, 5/25, 6/1, 6/8/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9010417

The name of the business: Painting

To The Max, located at 743 Mason Road, Vista, CA 92084. Registrant

Information: Michael Alexander Xanthakis, 743 Mason Road, Vista, CA 92084. This business is operated by an individual. First day of business: 10/21/1982

/s/ Michael Alexander Xanthakis with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 5/11/2023

5/18, 5/25, 6/1, 6/8/2023

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME 37-2023-00020036-CU-PT-NC

TO ALL INTERESTED PER-

SONS: Petitioner Erin Carr and Chris Carr filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: Courtney Carr to Proposed name Paige Courtney Carr. 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: 6/30/2023, 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 May 11, 2023

/s/ Brad A. Weinreb, Judge of the Superior Court 5/25, 6/1, 6/8, 6/15/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9011296

The name of the business: Kearny Mesa Commercial Kitchen Rental, located at 8360 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, #112, San Diego, CA 92111-1321. Registrant

Information: Eric Gallerstein, 4169 Hamilton Street, San Diego, CA 92104 and Jacob Bertlett, 657 Brightwood Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910. This business is operated by a general partnership.

First day of business: 2/2/2023

/s/ Eric Gallerstein with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 5/23/2023 5/25, 6/1, 6/8, 6/25/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9011295

The name of the business: RAD Burger & Fluster Cluck Hot Chicken, located at 8360 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, #112, San Diego, CA 92111-1321. Registrant Information: Mastiff Sausage Company, Inc., 8360 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, /3112, San Diego, CA 92111-1321. This business is operated by a corporation. First day of business: 2/17/2016

/s/ Eric Gallerstein, CEO with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 5/23/2023

5/25, 6/1, 6/8, 6/25/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9011294

The name of the business: Mastiff Kitchen, the Pig’s Gig BBQ, Mastiff Kitchen, located at 3038 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104. Registrant Information: Tugboat Sausage Company, Inc., 657 Brightwood Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910. This business is operated by a corporation. First day of business: 2/22/2023

/s/ Jacob Bartlett, CEO with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 5/23/2023

5/25, 6/1, 6/8, 6/25/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9011276

The name of the business: Strong Arm Consulting, located at 202 Hawthorne Cir, Vista, CA 92083.

Registrant Information: Sean Linden Ploesch, 202 Hawthorne Cir, Vista, CA 92083. This business is operated by an individual. First day of business: 3/14/2023

/s/ Sean Linden Ploesch with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 5/23/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9009874

The name of the business: Anthem Asphalt Services, located at 2060 N. Nutmeg St., Escondido, CA 92026. Registrant Information: Harley Daane Jorgensen, 2060 N. Nutmeg St., Escondido, CA 92026. This business is operated by an individual. First day of business: 5/4/2023

/s/ Harley Daane Jorgensen with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 5/04/2023

6/1, 6/8, 6/15, 6/22/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9011731

The name of the business: Jasmine

Thai Massage And Spa, located at 261 Flores Ln., Vista, CA 92083.

Registrant Information: Jarawi Norkhuntod, 261 Flores Ln., Vista, CA 92083. This business is operated by an individual. First day of business: 5/18/2023

/s/ Jarawi Norkhuntod with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 5/30/2023

6/8, 6/15, 6/22, 6/29/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9011436

The name of the business: Spices

Of Himalaya Indian Cuisine, located at 15731 Bernardo Heights Pky, #103, San Diego, CA 92128.

Registrant Information: Spices Of Himalaya Corporation, 372 Broadway, Chula vista, CA 91910. This business is operated by a corporation. First day of business: 5/25/2023

/s/ Dhavalkvmar Jani, President with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 5/25/2023

6/8, 6/15, 6/22, 6/29/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT 2023-9011408

The name of the business: EB Medical Planning, located at 3738 Via Del Rancho, Oceanside, CA 92056. Registrant Information: Erika Dickerson Browning, 3738 Via Del Rancho, Oceanside, CA 92056. This business is operated by an individual. First day of business: 5/14/2023

/s/ Erika Dickerson Browning with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 5/24/2023

6/8, 6/15, 6/22, 6/29/2023

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

37-2023-00022822-CU-PT-NC

TO ALL INTERESTED PER-

SONS: Petitioner Eva Heimana

Alo filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: Eva Heimana alo to Proposed name Eva Heimana Cabacungan-Alo. 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: 7/21/2023, 8:30 am, in Dept.

25

The address of the court is: 325 S. Melrose, Vista, CA. 92081. No hearing will occur on above date see attachment.

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 May 31, 2023

/s/ Brad A. Weinreb, Judge of the Superior Court 6/8, 6/15, 6/22, 6/29/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME

STATEMENT 2023-9010149

The name of the business:

Trealee8, located at 2120 W. Mission Rd., #240, Escondido, CA 92029.

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