March 16, 2023

By Cecil Scaglione

It’s the time of year for a ritual that predates by centuries the arrival of European settlers in the New World.

The indigenous folk of this continent had been producing the comfortably sweet product for centuries but how they came to make use of sap running out of maple trees is clouded in several legends. Until the Europeans used a tube to

tap into the tree trunks, the native people sliced a tomahawk into the tree and caught the clear liquid in a birch bark bucket.

The maple syrup ingathering season runs from late February to early April, when the days are balmy and the nights freeze.

Snow still covers the underbrush of southern Canada and the northern states when folks gather in maple groves to collect and save the

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sweetness for their kitchens. Corporate mechanized production that accounts for some 5 million gallons each year has replaced much of the old time fun.

Us kids in northern Ontario used to run into the nearby woods and snag sap icicles and suck on them on the way to school.

Canada produces more than 80 percent of the world’s maple syrup. The province of Quebec whose bor-

der is just an hour from my home town, accounts for 90 percent of that amount.

Memories still linger of a time when we would collect the pails of sap and take them to the boiling kettle where 40 gallons of clear sap was processed into one gallon of caramel colored maple syrup. To keep us kids happy, the adults would toss a ladle-full of the brown bubbling syrup onto the snow and watch us scramble for fists-full of snow-taffy.

Spring

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The finished syrup would be ladled, scooped and poured into 16ounce mason jars with the timehonored screw-on caps. When we got the syrup home, our mothers would set aside a pint of the liquid to make a pound of maple sugar they would save for special occasions – or sprinkle over tea when their friends would visit.

While the palm trees swish gently in this part of the country, that sound is no match for the sweet “plip, plip, plip” as the sap dropped into the pails hanging from spouts tapped into maples in those quiet groves under the sun. Our nextdoor neighbor was the envy of the community with four maple trees in his backyard, dripping enough sap to give him a gallon of maple syrup every spring.

Nor can any dune-buggy trek match the excitement that built up as we climbed aboard a horsedrawn sled heading for the sugar shack, where the scent of burning cedar logs mingled with the singularly sweet aroma of hot thickening maple syrup.

I could warm my hands and feet over the crackling fire. If I was lucky, the adults would let me swab the sides of the huge boiling kettle with slabs of pork fat lashed to long poles. This prevented the sugar from becoming spongy and bubbling over like bread dough. And it gave me the opportunity to

Give Us This Day our Daily Chuckle

This

scoop up some hot bubbling sweetness in my long-handled tin cup.

I would dash outside and pour the searing sweetness onto a patch of crystal white snow that hardened immediately into sheets of snow taffy. I called it my own form of Baked Alaska.

As I was growing up, maple-syrup time was also festival time. While preparing and feasting on a variety of maple-syrup based delicacies, raconteurs would reminisce on legends of the past.

Tribal history has it that some warriors were honing their tomahawk throws for accuracy when one hit a maple tree and a clear liquid began to flow from the gash.

Moqua, the spouse of the mighty Iroquois hunter Woksis, had been resting by a nearby tree on her way to get some water in a nearby creek. When she saw the clear liquid that had formed into a small pool at the base of the tree, she scooped it up and used it for cooking.

Her husband was so pleased with the sweetness of the venison he was served that night that he relayed the word to other hunters and tribes encountered on his hunting forays. They tried it, and liked it.

Some tribes rendered the sap into sugar cakes because they were easier to transport than liquid syrup. They also used it for trade – a form of money, if you will. The sweetness was use to flavor food, in

~ Mayor Of Hiroshima , 1945

9. “ Where did all those @#$%ing Indians come from?”

~ George Custer, 1877

8. “Any @#$%ing idiot could understand that.”

~ Albert Einstein, 1938.

7. “It does so @#$%ing look like her!”

~ Picasso, 1926

6. “How the @#$% did you work that out?”

~ Pythagoras, 126 BC.

much the same it is used today.

When the first European settlers arrived, they saw the natives transforming sap into syrup by tossing red-hot stones into hewed-out logs filled with the “sweet water.” These pioneers bored holes into the maples and squeezed in small tubes, or taps, to channel the dripping sap into wooden buckets.

The buckets were collected by horse- and oxen-drawn sleds carrying barrels or storage tanks that were taken to sugar shacks and emptied into iron pots for boiling.

Some sections of middle America, where Mennonite communities still exist, continue some of these time-honored methods between their daily farm chores.

A typical operation involves a community where one or more farmers own several acres of maple trees and may even lease more acreage from neighbors. Using modern crop-rotation practices, they may tap three-quarters of the acreage each year and produce a couple of thousand gallons of maple syrup.

Much like the old way, these farmers still burn wood, because they don’t use electricity, to boil the sap. And they still use horses for transportation instead of tank trucks.

Practices that have changed include marketing and product efficiency. And health. Government regulations have upgraded cleanliness standards, and

Trump will ever become President”

~ Hillary Clinton, 2016 ***

Now that we have the Obama birth question settled, I demand that Hawaii provide papers proving that it is a state.

This just in: In 2006 Obama ran for President of Kenya but was disqualified because he was born in the US.

Stop trying to make everybody happy. You’re not tequila!

operations that produced about 10 gallons a day now process up to 50 gallons by using tubing instead of buckets to transfer the sap and syrup. Reverse osmosis has replaced boiling. Sap-sucking pumps have replaced the old-fashioned buckets.

In other words, maple syrup making has become much less about fun and much more focused on finances. It’s become so formulaized, there’s even a college course offered in maple-syrup production.

Modern maple-syrup harvesters still offer their product at local markets but have to compete with slick commercial operations that stock their bottles in nearby supermarkets.

Many times I’ve wondered about the countries that don’t have maple syrup. Imagine, there are kids in this world who have never heard of it, let alone never chased down some snow taffy.

Other countries, such as Japan and South Korea, have produced their fashion of maple products. The latter has a strain of maple tree that produces a sap they consume as is instead of processing it into syrup.

When you replace your maple syrup supply, make sure you’re getting the real thing. Ersatz popular-label

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who wish they were on list number one”.

Songs:

Do you remember the late Tom T. Hall and his song, “Old Dogs and Children, and Watermelon Wine?”

Or how about Merle Haggard and “Today, I started Lovin’ You Again . . ?”

The “F” Word . . .

Question : When is the use of “@#$%” or “@#$%ing” acceptable?

Answer: There are only 11 times throughout history where the “F” word has been considered acceptable for use.

In ASCENDING order, those exclamations were;

11. “What the @#$% do you mean, we’re sinking?”

~ Capt. E. J. Smith of RMS Titanic, 1912.

10. “What the @#$% was that?”

5. “You want WHAT on the @#$%ing ceiling?”

~ Michelangelo, 1566.

4. “Where the @#$% are we?”

~ Amelia Earhart, 1937

3. “Scattered @#$%ing showers, my ass!”

~ Noah, 4314 BC

2. “Aw, come on Monica. Who the @#$% is going to find out?”

~ Bill Clinton, 1998

AND THE WINNER IS .....

1.”There is no @#$%ing way

It’s better to walk alone than with a crowd going the wrong direction.

Be who you needed when you were younger.

If you had to choose between drinking wine every day or being skinny, what would you choose? Red or white?

The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.

I have two lists: 1) “people I’m not speaking to” and 2) “people

Both songs have been running through my mind for days . . . can’t get them out of my mind. (Or I should say, “I cain’t get ‘um outta ma mind,’ cause when you talk about country music yew jes gotta talk like country folk . . .”

There!

Now YOU go on and be tormented by these great song lyrics! . . . .and let my poor mind rest awhile!

You’re welcome.

On their honeymoon, the blonde bride slipped into a sexy nightie and, with great anticipation,

Chuckles

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crawled into bed, only to find her new Catholic husband had settled down on the couch.

When she asked him why he was apparently not going to make love to her, he replied, ‘It’s Lent.’

In tears, she sobbed, ‘Well, that is the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard! Who did you lend it to, and for how long?’

Golf can best be defined as an endless series of tragedies obscured by the occasional miracle , followed by a good bottle of beer ....

Golf ! You hit down to make the ball go up ..

You swing left and the ball goes right ..

The lowest score wins , on top of that , the winner buys the drinks .

Golf is harder than baseball . In Golf , you have to play your foul balls ..

If you find you do not mind playing golf in the rain , the snow , even during a hurricane , here’s a valuable tip ...your life is in trouble ..

Golfers who try to make everything perfect before taking the shot rarely make a perfect shot ...

The term ‘mulligan’ is really a contraction of the phrase ‘ maul it again ....’

A ‘gimme’ can best be defined as an agreement between two golfers ...neither of whom can putt very well .....

An interesting thing about Golf is that no matter how badly you play , it is always possible to get worse .

Golf’s a hard game to figure .. One day you’ll go out and slice it and shank it , hit into all the traps and miss every green .

The next day you go out and for no reason at all you really stink .

If your best shots are the practice swing and the ‘gimme putt’, you might wish to reconsider this game.

Golf is the only sport where the most feared opponent is you .

Golf is like marriage , If you take yourself too seriously it won’t work , and both are expensive ..

The best wood in most amateurs’ bags is the pencil . ***

At dawn the telephone rings . . .

“Hello, Senor Rod? This is Ernesto, the caretaker at your country house.”

“Ah yes, Ernesto. What can I do for you? Is there a problem?”

“Um, I am just calling to advise you, Senor Rod, that your parrothe is dead.”

“My parrot? Dead? The one that won the International competition?”

“Si, Senor, that’s the one.”

“Damn! That’s a pity! I spent a small fortune on that bird. What did he die from?”

“From eating the rotten meat, Senor Rod.”

“Rotten meat? Who the hell fed him rotten meat?”

“Nobody, Senor. He ate the meat of the dead horse.”

“Dead horse? What dead horse?”

“The thoroughbred, Senor Rod.”

“My prize thoroughbred is dead?”

“Yes, Senor Rod, he died from all that work pulling the water cart.”

“Are you insane?? What water cart?”

“The one we used to put out the fire, Senor.”

“Good Lord!! What fire are you talking about, man??”

“The one that destroyed your house, Senor! A candle fell and the curtains caught on fire.”

“What the hell?? Are you saying that my mansion is destroyed because of a candle?!”

“Yes, Senor Rod.”

“But there’s electricity at the house!! What was the candle for?”

“For the funeral, Senor Rod.”

“WHAT BLOODY FUNERAL?!”

“Your wife’s, Senor Rod. She showed up very late one night and I thought she was a thief, so I hit her with your new Taylor Made Super Quad 460 golf club.”

SILENCE...........

LONG SILENCE.........

“Ernesto, if you broke that driver, you’re in deep doo-doo!” ***

A dog lover, whose own dog was a female and “in heat’, agreed to look after and house her neighbor’s

Chuckles

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Oodles!

Kitten season is almost here. Every spring, thousands of kittens rely on San Diego Humane Society for lifesaving care. During our virtual Kitten Shower, you can help us stock our nurseries with supplies for these precious babies!

By donating a special gift from our Kitten Shower registry, you’ll give fragile kittens everything they need to grow big and strong. Choose from our most-needed items, including:

• Bottles and formula to keep tummies full. Neonate kittens require feedings every 2-3 hours around the clock!

• Heating disks and blankets to keep babies warm. Temperature regulation is a critical part of caring for orphaned kittens.

• Plenty of grooming supplies. Kittens are adorable — and messy! Without a mama cat caring for them, kittens need constant help staying clean and healthy.

Visit our baby registries and select a gift to be sent directly to our nursery doors!

Amazon Registry

https://www.amazon.com/ baby-reg/sandiegohumanesociety-kittenshower-may-2023sandiego/1YB6Y0VDUUTTY

Target Registry

https://www.target. com/gift-registry/giftgiver?registryId=40e38a10a0fc-11ed-91274d99dc49cb23&type=BABY

Walmart Registry

https://www.walmart.com/registry/BR/e2be256d-273c-4bc9b39e-e1638501641c ***

What do you think of Downtown Oceanside?

Take survey for a chance to win a Staycation

If you live, work, eat, shop or play in Oceanside, we want to hear from you. Home to the historic Oceanside Pier, the Sunset and Farmers

Markets, the Oceanside Cultural District, more than 100 restaurants and so much more, Downtown Oceanside has a rich and diverse history and culture — and a strong and passionate community — that sets us apart from other beach towns.

You’ve witnessed the growth of Downtown, and we would like to know what you think about it now and how to continue to support the areas that make up Downtown.

We need your input for branding our Downtown district and subdistricts and for planning future events, murals and more in a way that remains true to Oceanside’s historical and cultural roots while reflecting all that Downtown now has to offer.

visit https://www.mainstreetoceanside.com/ouroceanside for more information and to take the survey.

***

Submarine Veterans Meeting

Saturday March 25th • 10am

The United States Submarine Service Inc. Scamp Base meets at 10:00 AM: Saturday March. 25, 2023, at Charlies Family Restaurant, 210 North Ivy Street, Escondido. The veteran’s group is open to submarine crew who have qualified to wear the warfare specialty pin, the dolphins (Silver or Gold). Others can apply to become associate members. Visit ussvi.org

***

Carlsbad Seeking Nominations for Citizen of the Year

The City of Carlsbad is now accepting applications for Citizen of the Year, an annual award recognizing Carlsbad residents who have provided outstanding service to their community. The deadline is March 31, 2023.

The Citizens of the Year program is more than 50 years old and honors community members who have given their time and energy toward the civic improvement, beautifica-

San Marcos Opens 38th Park

The City of San Marcos opened its new Las Abejas Park on Monday, March 6 – the City’s 38th park to open. The park is located at 999 Woodhaven Road and includes a beautiful new playground for children ages 2 to 5 and 5 to 12. The park will have a picnic shelter and BBQ spaces available for residents and visitors to use for picnics at the park. Additionally, there will be an open green space for children to use for passive play.

“The City of San Marcos is very excited to provide an additional space for friends and family to gather as we continue our legacy as San Parkos,” said Mayor Rebecca Jones during her grand opening remarks.

The City invited the community to provide their input when naming the new park. In Spanish, Las Abejas translates to “The Bees.” The naming of the park not only represents the significance of bees to the economy and biodiversity of the San Diego County, but also the Spanish heritage of San Marcos.

“We are very excited to add the new park to our City and hope residents and visitors enjoy the scenery,” continued Mayor Jones at the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

To learn more about the new park and other parks in the City, visit the Parks and Recreation Facilities Directory at https://www.sanmarcos.net/play/parks-recreation-facilities

Coyote Injured in Illegal Jaw Trap Returns to Wild

A coyote, caught in an illegal jaw trap on a residential property in the City of San Diego, returned to the wild this afternoon after three weeks in care with San Diego Humane Society’s Project Wildlife team. The adult female was rescued by San Diego Humane Society’s Humane Law Enforcement on Feb. 17, 2023, after she was found in the Skyline neighborhood dangling on a chain link fence from a jaw trap attached to her left front leg.

Humane Officers rushed her to San Diego Humane Society’s Ramona Wildlife Center, where Project Wildlife’s medical team provided pain medication, took X-rays and tended to her wounds. The coyote had suffered soft tissue damage to her lower leg due to the trap, but fortunately, no fractures or permanent damage. While under anesthesia, veterinarians also noted the coyote needed significant dental care, including a tooth extraction, which was most likely caused by her trying to free herself from the trap.

The coyote was released back to the wild in a greenbelt area not far from where she was found. “When she first came in, we didn’t think she was going to make it,” said Andy Blue, campus director of San Diego Humane Society’s Ramona Wildlife Center. “Typically, animals caught in these awful traps have such extensive damage, that they are unable to return to the

wild and fend for themselves.”

San Diego Humane Society’s Humane Law Enforcement is investigating this as felony animal cruelty. “While we can’t comment on the specifics of this case, the public should know that these traps are illegal,” said Lt. Regina Price with San Diego Humane Society’s Humane Law Enforcement. “Not only are they extremely inhumane, anyone can get caught in them — children, pets and wildlife. There is no excuse for placing them in the community.”

If you suspect animal cruelty or neglect in your neighborhood, please report it to San Diego Humane Society by calling 619-2997012 (press 1 to report animal abuse).

San Diego County is one of the most biologically diverse areas in the United States with the greatest number of endangered species. People from all over the county bring wildlife patients to San Diego Humane Society’s Project Wildlife program for rehabilitation and care. Each year, SDHS gives nearly 13,000 injured, orphaned and sick wild animals a second chance. In 2020, SDHS announced the Ramona Wildlife Center, where they specialize in caring for native apex predators and birds of prey, including hawks, owls, eagles, coyotes, bears, bobcats and, under special pilot authorization, mountain lions.

Man About Town

Your sometimes cranky editor decided to go grocery shopping one day recently. So I headed down to my friendly Vons grocery store on the corner of Citrus and E. Valley Pkwy. As I exited the store and got into my car I found that my car did not want to start. I decided to call a cab or Uber to get home but I discovered I didn’t have my wallet. Too far for an old cripple like me to walk home. No money. No credit card. And my car key did not work.

And then, the Angel appeared!

True, her name was, in fact, Angel. And she was a supervisor at Vons. She called Uber and put it on her credit card. I got home safely, and when I was finally to see Angel again, I wanted to reimburse her, but, she wouldn’t hear of it. “I did a kind thing for someone in trouble and anyone else would’ve done the same thing.”

Contrast that with this past Sunday when I was in the mood for pancakes or waffles. I decided to take Mrs. Davis to IHOP. This was only the second time I had been to IHOP and now I remember why I don’t patronize them more often.

We waited at least 15 minutes to be waited on, and another 20 minutes for our food to arrive.

Terrible, terrible service. I then remembered the last time I was at IHOP the service was terrible as

well. They only had 4 or 5 booths occupied, so they were not exactly flooded.

I

will not be going back to IHOP.

Another contrast, several weeks ago my left front tire went flat and proceeded to shred. A lovely lady by the name of Christy Cunningham pointed out the dangerous condition of my tire and pointed me to a solution. Several mechanics at a service station near Ash

and Washington, removed my front tire and replaced it with my spare -- no charge!

The next day, my chief chauffeur, drove me to Discount Tires at Washington and Broadway, where Cody, the manager, arranged for my new tire in a matter of minutes. Very, very efficient. Very, very courteous. You can bet I will be going back to Discount Tires when I have a need.

Similarly, I will be going back to Costco Hearing Aids, if and when I have a need, thanks to the courtesy and efficiency of Chris, who solved the hearing aid problem for me in a matter of minutes -- again, no charge.

As I run across businesses that show me great courtesies, or who show great incompetence and/or rudeness -- I shall name names and publish here in the Man About Town column. So fair warning to area businesses -- be on your best behavior. lyle is on the lookout.

The City invited the community to provide their input when naming the new park, called Las Abejas Park.

Chuckles from page 3

male dog while they were away on vacation.

She had a large house and believed that she would have no trouble keeping the dogs separated.

However, the very first night, as she was drifting off to sleep she heard awful howling and moaning sounds and rushed downstairs to find the dogs locked together, in obvious pain and unable to disengage as so frequently happens when canines mate.

Unable to separate them and perplexed as to what to do next, although it was late, she called her vet, who answered in a very grumpy voice. She explained the problem to him.

The vet said “Hang up the phone and place it down alongside the dogs. I will then call you right back and the noise of the ringing will make the male lose his erection and be able to withdraw.”

“Do you think that will work?” she asked.

“It just worked for me!” he replied *** Why I’m Divorced . . .

Last week was my birthday and I didn’t feel very well waking up on that morning.

I went downstairs for breakfast hoping my wife would be pleasant and say, ‘Happy Birthday!,’ and possibly have a small present for me.

As it turned out, she barely said good morning, let alone ‘Happy Birthday.’

I thought, well, that’s marriage for you, but the kids .... they will remember.

My kids came bounding down stairs to breakfast and didn’t say a word.

So when I left for the office, I felt pretty low and somewhat despondent.

As I walked into my office, my secretary, Kay, said, ‘Good Morning Boss, and by the way Happy Birthday!’

It felt a little better that at least someone had remembered.

I worked until one o’clock, when Kay knocked on my door and said, ‘You know, It’s such a beautiful day outside, and it is your Birthday, what do you say we go out to lunch, just you and me?’

I said, ‘Thanks, Kay, that’s the greatest thing I’ve heard all day. Let’s go!’

We went to lunch.

But we didn’t go where we normally would go. She chose instead at a quiet bistro with a private table. We had two martinis each and I enjoyed the meal tremendously. On the way back to the office, Kay said, ‘You know, it’s such a beautiful day - we don’t need to go straight back to the office, do we?’

I responded, ‘I guess not. What do you have in mind?’

She said, ‘Let’s drop by my apartment, it’s just around the corner.’

After arriving at her apartment, Kay turned to me and said, ‘Boss, if you don’t mind, I’m going to step into the bedroom for just a moment. I’ll be right back.’

‘OK,’ I nervously replied.

She went into the bedroom and, after a couple of minutes, she came out carrying a huge birthday cake... followed by my wife, my kids, and dozens of my friends and coworkers, all singing ‘Happy Birthday.’

And I just sat there.... on the couch....

Naked. ***

Oxy-morons

1. Is it good if a vacuum really sucks?

2. Why is the third hand on the watch called the second hand?

3. If a word is misspelled in the dictionary, how would we ever know?

4. If Webster wrote the first dictionary, where did he find the words?

5. Why do we say something is out of whack? What is a whack?

6. Why does “slow down” and “slow up” mean the same thing?

7. Why does “fat chance” and “slim chance” mean the same thing?

8. Why do “tug” boats push their barges?

Visit A Farmers Market

Wouldn’t you rather stroll amidst outdoor stalls of fresh produce on a sunny day than roll your cart around a grocery store with artificial lights and piped in music?

Come to a Farmers Market instead. Here are a few Farmers Markets located in North County. To see a complete list visit https://www. sandiego.org.

Escondido

The Escondido Arts Partnership (EAP) sponsors the Escondido Certified Farmers’ Market on Tuesdays 2:30 till sunset. Located at Juniper Street between Grand Ave and Valley Parkway at Heritage Garden Park in Downtown Escondido.

San Marcos

The San Marcos Farmers Market is conveniently located at 251 North City Drive, San Marcos, CA,

92078, off Highway 78 and Twin Oaks Valley Road and is open year-round, Tuesdays, 3pm-6pm.

Vista

Vista’s Farmer’s Market is the longest running farmers market in the county (since 1981) open in all weather every Saturday from 8:00 am to 12:00 noon. Admission is free and it is located at 325 S Melrose Dr.

Oceanside

The Oceanside Farmers Market is hosted by MainStreet Oceanside each Thursday morning from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. The event is held in Downtown Oceanside, adjacent to Civic Center Plaza, and features dozens of vendors offering a rich variety of fresh local produce, flowers, nursery items and more.

The event also features vendors of

handmade crafts such as jewelry, wearing apparel, soap and lotions, seashells, photography and many others.

Plan to stay for lunch, as you’ll find many food vendors with a wide variety of delicious offerings such as panini sandwiches, gyros, crepes, ethnic foods, and others.

Corner of Pier View Way and Coast Highway.

9. Why do we sing “Take me out to the ball game” when we are already there?

10. Why are they called “stands” when they are made for sitting?

11. Why is it called “after dark” when it really is “after light”?

12. Doesn’t “expecting the unexpected” make the unexpected expected?

13. Why are a “wise man” and a “wise guy” opposites?

14. Why do “overlook” and “oversee” mean opposite things?

15. Why is “phonics” not spelled the way it sounds?

16. If work is so terrific, why do they have to pay you to do it?

17. If all the world is a stage, where is the audience sitting?

18. If love is blind, why is lingerie so popular?

19. If you are cross-eyed and have dyslexia, can you read all right?

20. Why is bra singular and panties plural?

21. Why do you press harder on the buttons of a remote control when you know the batteries are dead?

22. Why do we put suits in garment bags and garments in a suitcase?

23. How come abbreviated is such a long word?

24. Why do we wash bath towels? Aren’t we clean when we use them?

25. Why doesn’t glue stick to the inside of the bottle?

26. Why do they call it a TV set when you only have one?

27. Christmas - What other time of the year do you sit in front of a dead tree and eat candy out of your socks?

28. Why do we drive on a parkway and park on a driveway? ***

God Saw you hungry & created McDonalds, Wendy’s, and Dairy Queen.

He saw you thirsty & created Pepsi, Juice, Coffee and Water.

GOD saw you in the dark & created Light.

GOD saw you without a Good looking, adorable, FRIEND ... So He created . . . ME

The Little Engine That Couldn’t

California’s high-speed rail project keeps chugging along, despite cost overruns, construction delays, and forgotten promises.

In 2008, voters passed Prop.1A, a $9.5 billion bond measure to help finance high-speed rail. Promises included keeping costs under $40 billion, the state’s maximum investment would be 30%, funding from federal, private and local sources would pay the rest. Additional taxpayer subsidies were prohibited, and construction could not begin until all revenues were in hand for the first segment.

But never mind all that. Construction began without the promised funding, and new reports show that the initial segment, a 171 mile stretch between Bakersfield and Merced, will cost $35 billion, exceeding available revenues by $10 billion, and almost equaling the projected cost of the entire Los Angeles to San Francisco project when it was originally proposed. Completing the project is now expected to cost $128 billion, and that amount is likely to rise as well.

The train from the Bay Area to Los Angeles was supposed to be

up and running by 2020 – now we’ll be lucky if the Bakersfield to Merced segment is operational by 2030. And this is just in the mostly rural, Central Valley portion of the rail line – which will attract the fewest riders.

The state simply doesn’t have the funding to complete the highspeed rail project, especially with our current $22.5 billion budget deficit and the likelihood that these deficits will continue for years. Given the history of broken promises and cost overruns, would voters approve another bond measure? Or is it likely Congress would approve billions in federal funds, and saddle the entire country with the cost of California’s mismanagement and failure?

We must cut our losses and derail this boondoggle now. If we don’t, high-speed rail will become the costliest train wreck in history.

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.

A Word from San Marcos Mayor

Rebecca Jones

The Geography of the City

Have you had the opportunity to utilize our Geographic Information Systems (GIS) yet? From the help of a GIS staff member, including a few volunteer and paid student interns, the Development Services Department was able to create a complete overview of the City’s infrastructure which combines map data and informational data through computer technology.

Residents and visitors can access and explore many forms of data including boundaries, places, natural features and transportation using the Geographic Information Systems website. The website also includes a variety of interactive maps for residents to review and allows residents to understand the City in its entirety.

I am proud to say the City works hard to provide accurate and timely geographic information through this database system to supply our

5th District Supervisor Jim Desmond

State of Emergency is Over

Last week, the COVID-19 emergency finally ended at the county and state levels, hallelujah. As we move forward, I think it’s important to look back and learn from the past three years.

My biggest hope is that politicians learn from the mistakes that were made. We should never lock down schools again.

The lockdowns and school closures limited social interactions with peers and teachers and caused severe emotional distress for kids. The pandemic has also had significant longterm implications on children’s mental health. According to studies, lockdowns and social distancing measures have led to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and stress among children. The damage done by COVID-19 lockdowns on children’s learning and well-being is significant, and the long-term consequences are yet to be fully understood.

We should also never force some

businesses to close while others remain open. Over 100,000 small businesses permanently closed due to the lockdowns.

And finally, we should always be able to question authority. Nobody was perfect with their assessment during COVID. What was “misinformation” one day ended up being a fact the next day. That shows the importance of civil dialogue and questioning authority.

The past three years have been a trying time for millions of people. I’m glad we can now put COVID in the rearview mirror. I appreciate everyone who stayed up to date with my COVID video and email updates. As always, if you need anything, please reach out to my office, and I’m going to continue to update you on issues in San Diego County.

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

Victoria Sims’s Frigidaire refrigerator has never worked. It’s been almost a year since she bought it -- can she get a replacement?

Q: I’m writing to you about my Frigidaire refrigerator, which I purchased for $1,499 less than one year ago. The refrigerator has an irreparable problem with its temperature controls and has never operated correctly.

Food placed in the refrigerator frequently goes bad in a matter of days. I’ve included photographs of avocados and cucumbers in the refrigerator covered in frost and ice crystals to demonstrate the refrigerator is not properly regulated.

the appliance. Can you help me?

~ Victoria Sims, Washington, D.C.

A: Your Frigidaire should have worked out of the box. Four repairs means you got a lemon, and Frigidaire should definitely replace the refrigerator as soon as possible.

So why won’t it? Like almost every other manufacturer, Frigidaire reserves the right to repair, replace or refund in its warranty. And, like almost every other manufacturer, it strongly prefers to repair the unit (because it’s cheaper).

residents with resources to enhance City services. Residents are welcome to print these maps in pdf form for future reference. This requires Adobe Reader to view.

For any additional information, please contact the City through email at smgis@san-marcos.net

Frigidaire has replaced the damper three times, and the sensor has been replaced once. None of these repairs has remedied the problem. I continue to incur damages in the form of spoiled and inedible food. The refrigerator requires immediate replacement, per Frigidaire’s warranty. Frigidaire refuses to replace

I have more on how warranties work in my ultimate guide to getting a repair, replacement or refund for your broken appliance. But before you went down that road, you might have contacted one of the executives at Frigidaire to plead your case. I list the names, numbers and email addresses of the Electrolux customer

Problem Solved

Historically Speaking More “True” Storys About The Brothers Earp

occasional mention of some of his brothers.

“The Town Too Tough to Die” -Richard Dix -- 1941

“My Darlin’ Clementine” -- Henry Fonda – 1946

“The Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” -- Burt Lancaster --1957

“Hour of the Gun” -- James Garner -- 1967

“Sunset” -- James Garner -- 1988

“Tombstone” -- Kurt Russell -1993

“Wyatt Earp”\ -- Kevin Costner --1994

migrated to California.

By Tom Morrow

For those of you, like yours truly, who gobbles up western folklore and trivia sprinkled with a tinge of truth, the family name “Earp” is the cause of many mythical yarns of the “Old West.” Here’s an attempt to set things right.

Hollywood mostly is responsible for turning rumor into fact. Western film director John Ford once said “... if given the choice of telling the truth or filming fiction, then print the fiction because it’s far more interesting.” (Or was that a quote by Louie B. Mayor of Jack Warner?)

Here are several known movies based on the life and times of frontier lawman Wyatt Earp with an

About the only factual thing of the fifties TV series “The Life and Legend of Wyatt Earp” was the spelling of his name. Dozens of other films and series mention the Earp name. Kevin Costner’s film, “Wyatt Earp,” comes the closest of any film made to date.

Nicholas Earp (1813) had six sons and one daughter. In order of birth: Newton (half-brother) was born 1837; James 1841 Virgil 1843; Wyatt 1848; Morgan 1851; and Warren 1855. Their only sister, Adelia Earp in 1861.

Newton Earp was the eldest child of Nicholas Earp and a half -brother to the other Earp siblings. He was in the Union Army during the Civil War. After the War Nicholas

James enlisted in the UnionArmy at the outbreak of the Civil War. He was wounded and lost the use of his left arm. Newton and Virgil served until the end of the War. James married former prostitute Nellie “Bessie” Ketchum and served briefly as a deputy marshal in Dodge City, Kansas. They joined Wyatt and Virgil in Tomb stone, Arizona Territory, but he did not participate in the infamous gunfight. In 1890, James and Bessie settled in San Bernardino, California where he died in 1926 of natural causes.

The third oldest of the Earp boys was Virgil, who was born in 1843. In 1879, he was appointed both Tombstone Marshal and Deputy U.S. Marshal after Town Marshal Fred White was killed by “Outlaw” gunman “Curly Bill” Brocius.

On Oct. 26, 1881, Virgil, with his brothers Wyatt and Morgan, along with friend John “Doc” Holliday, confronted the “Cowboys” in a narrow lot next to the O.K. Corral. Three months later Virgil was am-

Travel Troubleshooter

by Christopher Elliott

I lost 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.

Celeste Rubanick loses 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points when she books a hotel in Scotland. Why won’t the company restore the points?

Q: I made reservations at the Residence Inn, Edinburgh, Scotland, for two nights, using 80,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. I recently received a notification from Marriott claiming that I had used the points for a stay almost three weeks earlier.

I called Marriott, and they assigned me a case number. I have been going back and forth with the company ever since.

I was on the phone for more than two hours speaking to several agents, one of whom told me, “You’re not going to get these points back until we find out who took them.” I have tried the executive contacts on your website but have received no reply. It’s been 10 weeks since Marriott

took my Bonvoy points. Can you help me get them back? -- Celeste Rubanick, Cornville, Ariz.

A: Marriott deducted points from your account for someone else’s stay. It should have quickly restored your loyalty points when you pointed out the problem -- not strung you along for 10 weeks.

What happened to your points?

It appears an unauthorized party gained access to your account. It’s unclear how that happened.

There are certain things you should do for any online account, like Marriott’s Bonvoy program. You can enable two-factor authentication (you can do that in the settings of your Bonvoy account). Also, consider using a complex phrase as a password and updating it frequently.

I’m not comfortable with Mar-

bushed and gravely wounded losing further use of his left arm. He died in Goldfield, Nevada on Oct. 19, 1905, at the age of 62. He’s buried in Portland, Oregon.

Wyatt was the fourth brother, born March 18, 1848. He reportedly was married four times. His only legal wife, Urilla, died in 1870, while carrying their first child. The other three were common-law marriages. Wyatt was a gambler, lawman, buffalo hunter, saloon keeper, gold/copper miner, and boxing referee. He arrived with his brothers Virgil and Morgan in Tombstone in 1879.

For the O.K. Corral showdown, Morgan joined Virgil, Wyatt and close friend “Doc” Holiday. The shooting broke out almost immediately. It’s not clear who fired first. Billy Clanton and both McLaury brothers were killed, Morgan and Virgil were both slightly wounded. The entire affair lasted approxi-

Earp

continued on page 13

Can you get them back?

riott’s assertion that it needed to find the points before it returned them to your account. That could happen tomorrow or next week -or never. Marriott needs a better system to verify if someone used points for fraudulent purposes, and the process should be quick.

You blazed a paper trail, which included contacting Marriott’s executives in writing after all other efforts failed. I’m surprised the executives didn’t bother responding. Usually, they will delegate an assistant to help facilitate a fast resolution. Marriott also has a reputation for great customer service -- although it has also faced some criticism from travelers about its Bonvoy loyalty program.

Unfortunately, there’s no other place to appeal this type of problem. If the executives don’t respond, you’re out of luck. Unless you get me involved. I reviewed

your case, and I agreed with you that 10 weeks is far too long to wait for a resolution. I contacted Marriott on your behalf.

In response, Marriott sent you an email acknowledging “unauthorized activity” on your Bonvoy account. “Evidence shows unauthorized account access with data compromise of unknown source,” the email said.

Marriott recommended that you change your password and enable two-factor authentication. It also restored the 80,000 missing Bonvoy points.

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.

More Airline Fees Are On The Way

by Christopher Elliott

When it comes to airline fees, what will they think of next?

Passengers like Gregg Jaden think they’ve seen the future, and they don’t like it. On a recent flight from Bali to Bangkok, he tried to board with an overweight bag.

He says Thai Airways demanded $500 for an extra 40 pounds of luggage.

“My flight only cost $150,” says Jaden, a photographer from Manhattan Beach, Calif. “I was forced to pay or miss my flight.”

He suspects airlines are trying something new. He says Thai Airways made it difficult to pay for overweight luggage in advance. Then, when he got to the airport, the carrier set a high luggage fee it knew passengers would have no choice but to pay. Call it dynamic luggage fees.

I asked Thai Airways whether it was shifting to dynamic fees. In response, a representative sent me a link to the current baggage fees on its website without comment. I’ll take that as a no.

Airlines are busy thinking about how to earn more profit in 2023, and from the looks of it, they plan to do it the old-fashioned way: by charging fees. The extras range from luggage surcharges to creative change fees.

The average airline fees rose to an all-time high of $128 per ticket last year, according to research by travel management company Navan (formerly TripActions). “They’re certainly the highest I’ve seen them,” Navan’s Chief Commercial Officer Danny Finkel said.

Airline fees continue on their upward trajectory, and most experts predict they will soar this year. (I have strategies on how to fight fees and other nuisance surcharges in my ultimate guide on booking airline tickets.)

But how?

Are Dynamic Airline Fees Coming in 2023

There’s no evidence that airlines have shifted to dynamic fees -- at least not yet. But there are signs that it might.

Jaden says the circumstances of his $500 trap seemed suspicious. He knew his bag was overweight and tried to pay for his luggage fees online. But the airline didn’t offer an option for overweight luggage. When he arrived at the airport, he says it appeared as if a ticket agent

pulled a price out of thin air, believing he would have no choice but to pay. When an agent told Jaden how much it would cost, he also removed his name badge, making it harder for Jaden to file a formal complaint.

“The staff seemed familiar with this problem,” he says. “Nothing about it was professional.”

One thing is certain: Luggage fees will be big in 2023. Airlines collected a record $20.9 billion last year in baggage fees, according to a report from IdeaWorks, a company that tracks airline fees. They’re paying particular attention to carry-on fees. For example, Aer Lingus has a “saver” fare in Europe that includes a checked bag but excludes a large carry-on. And AirAsia will allow you to double the size of your 15-pound carry-on -- for a price.

“It’s just a matter of time before we start seeing wider adoption of dynamic pricing on fees,” says John Breyault, a vice president at the National Consumers League, a nonprofit organization.

Beware of Airline Cancellation Fees

Here’s a new kind of fee Ariana Fiorello-Omotosho saw this summer, and it could become big. When an airline cancels a flight, it owes you either a full refund or a flight of its choosing. Most passengers just want to get to their destination as planned, so they accept the new flight.

But what if the airline can’t or won’t put them on the next flight? What if they tell them they can’t send them to their destination for a few more days, or weeks -- unless they pay extra?

There’s an opportunity to upsell passengers on an earlier flight.

Fiorello-Omotosho, a travel coach from Medford, Mass., says she’s seen airlines punish passengers traveling on the cheapest tickets and who declined to buy a confirmed seat assignment. These travelers get the lowest priority when the airline has a cancellation. They often get stuck with lengthy waits at the airport just to board their rescheduled flight.

“This is a potential for any airline, and I believe it is going to be a growing concern,” she says.

Airlines profiting from their own cancellations? What’ll they think of next?

A Change for Change Fees

Here’s something else to look for as you start planning next year’s trips: Change fees may make a comeback. Wait, didn’t U.S. airlines agree to drop their change fees during the early days of the pandemic, as they were begging the federal government for a bailout? Yep, they did. But look at all the money they left on the table ($2.8 billion in 2019). Is there any way to keep their promise and bring back ticket change fees?

Of course there is. The easy way is to sell more tickets with change fees. Airlines exempted their cheapest fares from the “no change fees” promise. So all they really need to do is sell more of these cut-rate tickets and fewer regular economy class seats.

The other strategy is to add a change fee but call it something else. I don’t dare speculate on how they would justify these new fees. I don’t want to give the airline industry any ideas. But let’s just say the airline industry misses its change fees, and it wants them back.

Then again, maybe the airline in-

dustry will do none of these things next year and take the easy runway. Sell more frequent flier miles to credit card companies and customers and then adjust their redemption levels to make them a little harder to use. It’s the airline industry’s trillion-dollar scam, and every time you make a purchase on your credit card or collect miles for a flight, you participate in it. But you probably already knew that.

How to Escape Airline Fees in 2023

Don’t Book Airlines That Charge High Fees

Which airlines charge the most fees? IdeaWorks names them (they’re called ancillary revenue “champs”). They include Allegiant, EasyJet and Ryanair. But airlines like Frontier and Spirit also have well-earned reputations for adding fees. And JetBlue’s planned merger with Spirit -- unless the Department of Justice gets its way -- will also put it in the game. You can avoid the fees by flying without luggage and avoiding all perks, and you might even save some money. But sooner or later, the fees will find you.

Avoid the Fee-Prone Fares

Don’t let the “basic economy” and “saver economy” discount fares fool you, says Daniel Green, cofounder of the travel insurance site Faye. The problem: They’re far more restrictive when it comes to luggage and ticket changes. “Airlines act like these are a discount,” he says, “In reality, if you purchase the saver fares plus one or two add-ons, you’ll end up paying more than you will for a regular economy ticket, which likely already includes those add-ons.”

Travel Light

“The biggest mistake I see travelers make is not taking baggage weight limits seriously,” says Larry Snider, vice president of operations at Casago Vacation Rentals. “It’s worth the effort to pack a little smarter -- and lighter -- to save on these fees.” Fun fact: Airlines incentivize their ticket agents to collect as much revenue from passengers before they board. If they think your bag might be overweight, they’re gonna getcha.

Christopher Elliott is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes Elliott Confidential, a travel newsletter, and the Elliott Report, a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can reach him here or email him at chris@elliott.org.

Illustration by Christopher Elliott

SDG&E To Hold Public Hearings

Electricity prices are out of control in California, most notably in San Diego County. California’s utility rates are consistently 30% higher than the national average. All of this comes as San Diego Gas & Electric is set to increase their rates yet again.

For many San Diegans, the recent 24.6% jump in gas rates and 7.8% increase in electricity rates is more than they can afford.

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) will hold several public forums to provide an opportunity for customers of San Diego Gas & Electric to offer perspective and input about the company’s rate requests.

March 15 1 pm (Virtually)

Phone Number: 800-857-1917

Passcode: 1767567# Online Watch Live: https://www. adminmonitor.com/ca/cpuc/ hearing/20230315/

March 23: 2:30pm (In-person)

Sherman Heights Community Center, Multipurpose Room 2nd Floor 2258 Island Ave. San Diego, CA 92102

Members of the public can attend the public forums remotely by

phone or Internet on March 15 or in-person (no remote access) on March 23.

Those who would like to make public comment at the remote public forums must participate by telephone and make comment through the toll-free phone line. Those intending to make public comment in-person on March 23 can sign up to speak at the Public Advisor Office’s table.

The public forum will begin with a brief overview of SDG&E’s requests, then public comments will be heard. At least one representative from the utility company will be available to customers during the public forum for individual service, including billing issues.

If you can’t make the forums, you can take action by leaving a public comment. Here is a link to SDG&E’s General Rate Case: https://apps.cpuc.ca.gov/p/ a2205016.

There is a public comment tab where members of the public can add a comment. There’s also a public-facing fact sheet that explains the General Rate Case and how the public can engage. SDG&E General Rate Case Fact Sheet.

San Diego Humane Society Offers Community Veterinary Program

One of the greatest challenges facing pet families in San Diego is access to affordable veterinary care. Our Community Veterinary Program provides essential medical care for owned pets — including wellness exams, vaccines, pharmacy services and preventative care — at our San Diego Campus. Through these critical services, we help keep animals with their families and out of shelters.

One recent patient of our Community Veterinary Program was Akeles, an energetic pittie who was rescued by his owner after her neighbors abandoned him. She was initially worried about the challenges and financial responsibility of owning a dog, but she fell so in love with Akeles that she was determined to find a way to give him a happy home.

We gave Akeles standard vaccinations and flu medication, and he gave our team lots of wiggly kisses to show his thanks! Akeles got the care he needed and his mom got the peace of mind that her affectionate companion would be healthy and happy.

Our Community Veterinary Program is designed to support pet families in need, and there are no qualifications needed to access these services. Visit our website to find clinic appointments and upcoming community events. (New appointments are made available each Wednesday.)

Our Community Veterinary Program provides accessible veterinary care to the pet families and

communities that need it the most. We offer:

• Clinics at our San Diego Campus.

• Mobile clinics that take our services directly into targeted and under-resourced communities.

• General medical veterinary care

— preventive and basic sick care.

• Wellness resources like vaccinations, flea medication and education.

• Pharmacy services.

Community Veterinary Program Price List

All Appointments start with a Wellness Exam - $35

Ear Cleaning $15- $35 (Requires Welness Exam)

Nail Trim Cat $10 - $20

Nail Trim Dog $15 - $30

Adult Bloodwork - $75

Senior Bloodwork - $120

Fecal $25

Flea Meds $15 - $94

Pet Parade

Walter

Walter is pet of the week at your Rancho Coastal Humane Society. He’s a 4-year-old, 17pound, male, Domestic Short Hair Cat with a Blue and White Tabby coat.

Walter was a stray in Riverside County. At a shelter they discovered he was mostly blind. Walter was transferred to Rancho Coastal Humane Society through FOCAS (Friends of County Animal Shelters.) He can navigate his kennel for food, water, and his litter box. He can play and jump.

The $100 adoption fee for Walter includes medical exam, neuter, up to date vaccinations, and registered microchip. For more information or to sponsor a pet 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

Deworming $10 and up (Price determined by weight)

Vaccines $12-20

Clinic Locations

Campus Clinic

Days held: Thursdays and Fridays.

Location: San Diego Campus, 5525 Gaines St., San Diego, CA 92110

Mobile Clinics

Days held: Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Locations: Services are taken directly into focus communities. Locations vary monthly, and will be shown in the appointment scheduler. Our mobile clinic outreach efforts are focused on providing services to residents in the following zip codes: 92102, 92105, 92113, 92114 and 92154.

If you are in need of veterinary services, but live outside of one of the mentioned communities, please

schedule yourself at one of our onsite clinics.

Who is eligible?

The services provided by the Community Veterinary Program are designed to serve pet families in need of support. However, we do not verify financial need or require qualifying documents, and stationary clinic appointments are open to the public.

Why is the Community Veterinary Program so important?

In the U.S., 70 percent of homes include pets. Even though pets are part of so many families, nearly 50 million pets in the U.S. cannot access even the most basic veterinary care. Due to cost and other barriers, pets in underresourced communities often do not receive essential veterinary services. As research continues to reveal the benefits of the humananimal bond, San Diego Humane Society is committed to connecting pet parents to the veterinary care their animals need, in order to keep them healthy and out of shelters.

San Diego Humane Society has helpful resources for our Community Veterinary Program that we encourage everyone to use and share with friends, family and neighbors.

Visit https://www.sdhumane.org/ for more information.

Community Pet Pantry

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.

The Computer Factory

845 W. San Marcos Blvd. 760-744-4315

thecomputerfactory.net

The three oldest living “generations” and their birth years are: “Greatest” 1901-1927, “Silent” 1928-1945, “Baby Boomer”19461964. The three youngest generations and their birth years are: “X Generation” 1965-1980, “Millennials” 1981-1996, and Z generation 1997- present. Social scientists love to assign characteristics to each generation and there are many ways to combine or separate different age groups based on their AIV index, (Attitudes Interests and Values). The AIV gap between “Silents” (born before 1946) and “Zs” (born after 1996) is far greater than that of adjacent generations like “Baby Boomers”and “X” generations. Another way of saying the same thing is that your AIV index is more likely to re-

OFs vs. YFs. Part I of III

semble that of your parents than your grandparents.

For the purpose of this discussion, we combined the three older generations into a single category called “OFs” (born between 1937-1964) then combined the younger three generations into a group called “YFs” (born between 1965-present). We divided these six generations into two groups to provide to simplify focus on the important differences in their AIV particularly as it relates to The Computer Factory’s major customer base, home and small business PC users.

The last twenty years have seen the PC evolve slowly from a standalone computing device into an Internet terminal. This time period also saw cell phones add broadband Internet to their voice communication capabilities. The OFs were present through the entire history and transition period for PCs and phones. OFs became accustomed to using PCs with large screens, keyboards, mice and peripherals in comfortably integrated workstations. As broadband Internet grew and standard applications moved to the Internet, it was natural for them to accept the newer applications on familiar devices like their PCs. OFs had been using cell phones as voice communication devices for decades and as phones added Internet connectivity they tended to keep using “smart hones” primarily as portable person to person communication devices. These older generations tend to selectively accept and adapt broadband In-

ternet capabilities into their established patterns of living. They use it to communicate with friends and relatives, shop, conduct personal finance, file forms, seek information etc. For most OFs the Internet is used to support pre-existing lifestyles.

By contrast most YFs never knew a world without the Internet. They came to the Internet early in life. Their access device is typically a smart phone. For some, social media has become the center of their life. Many Millennials and Z gens spend vastly more time on social media than with their parents or teachers Internet relationships are antiseptic with no touch or feel and may seem safer than real life relationships to uncertain young minds. The Internet may in some way be contributing to an historic first ever decline in standard IQ test scores among the younger

generations over the past decade. It is important to point out that characteristics or behaviors assigned to generations or groups are generalizations. Individuals react differently to common experiences and exceptions to these generalizations are rampant.

The Computer Factory’s home user customer base is over 75% OFs (folks over 59). As a group these folks have a different AIV index than YFs. We understand and tend to share AIV with our customers because we’ve lived through the same times. That doesn’t mean that we don’t love our children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nor does it mean we harbor any antipathy toward younger generations, we don’t. It just means that we have a natural affinity with the people with which we’ve shared our lifetimes. Next week part II

John Van Zante’s Critter Corner

Free Vaccination Clinic Saturday

lecitos Blvd. in San Marcos. It’s on the north side of Highway 78, be hind Furniture Row.

Let’s Give Pets Their FREE Best Shots And Make Happy Memories

Petco Love and Bissell Pet Foundation are once again joining paws with your Rancho Coastal Humane Society and other community service organizations to provide FREE vaccinations for pets. If your pet is due for vaccinations, here’s what you need to know.

Thie FREE vaccination clinic will be this Saturday morning, March 18th, at One Safe Place - North County Family Justice Center at 1050 Val-

You don’t need an appointment, but you will need to register when you arrive. Registration starts at 8:30. Don’t be late. 178 pets (and their people) showed up at the last FREE vaccination clinic.

From 9:00 to 11:00 am, while supplies last, vaccines will be administered including DAPPv for dogs and HCP for cats. Other services include Rabies vaccinations and Microchips.

Your dog must be on a leash or in a carrier. Cats must be in carriers.

Visit the booths to learn about resources available for your pets and

your two-legged family members.

During our first FREE vaccine clinic a little girl holding a puppy pointed and said, “Look Mommy. They could be brothers!” Sure

enough. Her puppy and the puppy she was pointing at were from the same litter! The families exchanged numbers and set a puppy play date.

A Marine sitting off to the side with his two big dogs said, “I ship out next week. Some friends will take care of my dogs while I’m gone, but they said I had to get their vaccines updated before I go. I’ve been so busy getting ready to deploy that I haven’t been able to take them to the veterinarian. Thank you! You’re saving my dogs. They’ll be waiting for me when I get back.”

Even if you don’t need this, you probably know somebody who does. Spread the word. You might help to keep a family together or start a lifelong friendship.

Oodles from page 5

tion and betterment of the City of Carlsbad.

A five-person committee appointed by the Mayor will consider the following criteria in selecting up to two honorees:

• Long and faithful service to the community.

• Distinguished service in a position of responsibility.

• Enterprise, initiative, diligence, and care in the performance of a specific volunteer assignment.

• Outstanding contribution to the development, growth and welfare of the community.

The award is not intended to recognize elected officials or those who receive compensation for their efforts. It is intended to recognize volunteer, unpaid effort of a significant nature.

Nominees must be Carlsbad residents but can be nominated by someone who is not a resident.

To nominate a Carlsbad community member, please complete the nomination form on the city’s website. Nomination forms are also available at City Hall, 1200 Carlsbad Village Drive.

For more information call 442339-2830 or email andrea.dykes@ carlsbadca.gov.

Join Carlsbad’s Annual Pirate Plunge

March 25th • 5 pm

Alga Norte Auqatic Center

Enjoy pirate themed pool activities and games during the City of Carlsbad’s Pirate Plunge event on Saturday, March 25 at Alga Norte Aquatic Center starting at 5 p.m. As the sun goes down, finish the night off with a screening of Nim’s Island (PG) on the giant outdoor screen.

Come dressed in a swimsuit and enjoy pirate-themed activities like diving for treasure, walking the plank and a ship raider race. The Splash Pad will also be open for the little ones. Dry activities include a pirate ship slide and a treasure hunt.

• Tickets are $10 per person and are available online or at the door if the event is not sold out.

• Kids ages 3 and under are free but still need to be registered.

• Pick up your tickets in advance at Alga Norte Aquatic Center during the week before the event to avoid lines.

• Food will be available for purchase.

• For safety reasons, only pool noodles and US Coastguard approved floatation devices are allowed in the pool.

• Event may modify or cancel due to inclement weather.

Visit https://www.carlsbadca.gov/ departments/parks-recreation for more information and to sign up.

Interfaith Community Services

Presents Change Your Mind

May 6, 2023 • 11am - 4 pm

Oceanside Junior Seau Pier Amphitheater

Interfaith Community Services is proud to host our Second Annual Change Your Mind festival, in partnership with the City of Oceanside on Saturday, May 6, 2023 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Oceanside Junior Seau Pier Amphitheater.

The goal of Change Your Mind is to encouraging candid conversations about mental health in a fun and stress-free environment. Attendees of all ages can participate in a full day of workshops, performances, and wellness-related experiences. Workshop topics include but are not limited to the following central themes:

• Destigmatizing Mental Health

• Belonging and Community

• Tools to Survive and Thrive

• Healing Through the Arts

• The Impacts of Addiction

A wide variety of traditional and modern wellness experiences and activities include:

• Live music

• Cultural performances from diverse communities

• Yoga

• Sound bath

• DIY succulent bar

• Drumming circle

• Crafting circles

• Onsite community enrichment activities

This free event is open to the entire North County community with activities for people of all ages. Please bring your family and friends as you help change the conversation around mental health - one mind and one life at a time.

Tickets are free but pre-registration is requested. Secure your spot today by visiting www.interfaithservices.org/change/

Exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Lem Blackett at lblackwell@interfaithservices.org for more information.

As North County’s largest social services agency, Interfaith Community Services (Interfaith) has been “helping people help themselves” since 1979.

The organization provides a wide range of programs designed to empower hungry, homeless, and low-income community members to begin a pathway towards selfsufficiency. Each year, Interfaith Community Services impacts more than 20,000 community members by providing basic needs and nutrition support, social services, shelters and housing, employment development, youth programs, senior services, veterans programs and addiction recovery support. For more information, visit interfaithservices.org.

Assistance League of Inland North County

Working with Escondido Unified High School District (EUHSD) Workability Program

The Assistance League of Inland North County depends on our generous supporters and donors for many things and that includes financial and in-kind donations. The clothing and household goods we receive from the public is the lifeblood of the Thrift Shop which in turn, is our primary source of funding for our programs.

During the pandemic and since, we experienced a tsunami of donations from the community as families stayed home and needed to make space for working and learning. However, there is an old saying “too much of a good thing...”. Not only were the storage areas in the Chapter House bursting at the seams, but we had a great deal of difficulty finding and keeping volunteers to work at our donation station outside the Chapter House. Hot sun, cold winds and occasional heavy lifting all contributed to a lack of regular help. Many days our shop managers had to help outside and neglect their regular

duties because the donations were overwhelming. What to do?

Out of the blue, we received a call from the Escondido Unified High School District (EUHSD). They have a program called Workability wherein young people with special needs are given the opportunity to prepare for the workforce. They learn to show up on time, follow instructions, get along with co-workers and take pride in what they do.

We worked with an employee of the high school district responsible for this program, who had been looking for a place to train his team that was

walkable to their office. This began to look like a perfect match. After some back and forth between the high school district and ourselves, an agreement was signed, and the young people started working. They come in the mornings and some afternoons when we take donations and are always accompanied by an EUHSD supervisor. Here we are, 18 months later and what has happened? The students have learned so much: how to greet our customers with respect, how to organize donations as they come in, offering receipts if necessary and taking the full carts of donations upstairs. Inside the building they have learned the basics of sorting and using the appropriate collection bins, so donations move from “a pile of stuff” to items ready for hanging, steaming, and moving to the shop floor.

Their social skills have improved, and they are much more open to engaging in conversation with other volunteers. We in turn have a team we can count on to help us with the

ongoing deluge of donations to the Thrift Shop. The teacher and the entire staff are so appreciative of the Assistance League® of Inland North County. Their students are eager to go to work, motivated to provide a service to the community and so proud to receive their compensation from EUHSD at the end of each month.

All this is possible by the willingness of our chapter to open its doors and hearts to a population in need of an opportunity to prove themselves as contributors to the local community. And we are grateful for the ongoing support of EUHSD for the continuation of this program. This a true example of collaboration for the common good, so keep those donations coming, friends.

Assistance League of Inland North County is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit thrift shop in Escondido that puts caring and commitment into action through volunteerism, our thrift shop, and our nine philanthropic programs.

Earp

from page 7

mately 40 seconds. Three days after the gunfight, Tombstone the City Council suspended Virgil as marshal pending outcome of a preliminary hearing. The three brothers were charged with murder by “Cowboy” ring leader Ike Clanton, but during a long hearing, Judge Wells Spicer ruled the three brothers and Holiday had acted within the law and dismissed the charges..

On Dec. 28, 1881, three men ambushed Virgil as he walked Fremont Street at night. Virgil was hit in the back and left arm by three loads of double-barreled buckshot. He was seriously wounded leaving his arm permanently crippled.

Late Saturday night, March 18, 1882, Morgan was ambushed and killed while playing a round of billiards. The assailant shot Morgan in the right side shattering his spine. He died within the hour.

Warren Earp was the least-known and the youngest brother. He was born in 1855, and for a short time also was a lawman. Although he was in Tombstone when Morgan was assassinated. Warren went on “Wyatt’s revenge” ride hunting the

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“Outlaws” who he believed was responsible for Morgan’s death. Later in life, Warren developed a reputation as a bully and in 1900, was killed in a gunfight.

Wyatt eventually ended up in Los Angeles where he became a technical advisor for western films. He became good friends with stars such as William S. Hart and Tom Mix. Wyatt died at age 80 on Jan. 13, 1929. He is buried in Coloma, California next to his third common-law wife, Josephine (Josey).

Little is known about the brothers’ only sister, Adelia Earp. The history of the Earp brothers, for the most part, is true, with a fib or two sprinkled among the facts.

(Writer’s Note): In 1988, I interviewed the late Vista mayor Harrison Doyle, who had briefly encountered Wyatt Earp in the early 1920s when Doyle was 12 years old. He told me Earp was playing poker in Needles, California with railroad workers. It was the railroaders’ payday and, according to Doyle, “… easy pickins’ for a skilled poker player” like Earp. Doyle said he was a runner for Earp, keeping him supplied with ice for his beer.

Spring from page 2

supplies are made with high-fructose corn syrup, caramel coloring and cellulose gum, a polymer that they put into everything from shampoo to ceramics.

While gourmets, gourmands and TV celebs offer new and exotic food with which to eat maple syrup, nothing beats the tried-and-true old-fashioned set up of pancakes and maple syrup. Or dousing your favorite ice cream with it.

There are even recipes available calling for heating maple syrup, and then gathering some snow to pour it on.

But they’ll never recapture the simple pleasure of scooping it out of pristine snow snuggled out in a maple grove.

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The Mighty Mojo Page

Problem Solved

from page 6

service managers on my consumer advocacy site, Elliott.org (Electrolux owns Fridigaire).

It looks like you bypassed the normal Frigidaire customer service channels and contacted the company via Twitter. Nothing wrong with that -- and you also kept an excellent paper trail by saving all the messages

-- but unfortunately, it didn’t work. You needed someone more senior to take a look at your case.

I understand why appliance manufacturers want to keep repairing a defective product. But enough is enough. Your refrigerator didn’t work right, and it was time for a new one. I reached out to Frigidaire on your behalf. A few days later, I received some good news from you.

“I just wanted to drop you a quick line to let you know that Frigidaire has offered to refund me the purchase price,” you said. That’s the right call. Better late than never!

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.

located at 1120 Mulberry Drive, San Marcos, CA 92069 Registrant Information: Philip Wilson, 1120 Mulberry Drive, San Marcos, CA 92069. This business is operated by an individual. First day of business: 2/24/2023

/s/ Philip Wilson Filed with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 2/24/2023

3/9, 3/16, 3/23, 3/30/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9003593

The name of the business: Twin Oaks Animal Hospital, located at 314 S. Twin Oaks Valley Rd., #118, San Marcos, CA 92078 Registrant Information: Twin Oaks Animal Hospital, 1134 Via Vera Cruz, San Marcos, CA 92078. This business is operated by a corporation.

First day of business: 8/23/2013

/s/ Ashley Weinberg Filed with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 2/15/2023 3/9,

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME 37-2023-00008822-CU-PT-NC

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS:

Petitioner Jennifer Zalud filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: Makayla Melendrina Lomas to Proposed name Makayla Melendrina Bala and Nicolas Lomas III to Nicolas Bala.

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: 4/18/2023, 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 March 3, 2023

/s/ Brad A. Weinreb, Judge of the Superior Court

3/9, 3/16, 3/23, 3/30/2023

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME

STATEMENT 2023-9004599

The name of the business: Immediate

Process Serving, located at 27 Parkwood Lane,Unit 2, Oceanside, CA 92054 Registrant Information: Rolando Benitez 27 Parkwood Lane, Unit 2, Oceanside, CA 92054. This business is operated by an individual. First day of business: 8/20/2015 /s/ Rolando Benitez Filed with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 3/1/2023

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

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 2023-9005559

The name of the business: Ricardo Guerra Trucking, located at 211 Guajome St., Vista, CA 92083 Registrant Information: Ricardo Guerra, 211 Guajome St., Vista, CA 92083. This business is operated by an individual.

First day of business: 3/10/2023

/s/ Ricardo Guerra Filed with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 3/10/2023

3/16, 3/23, 3/30, 4/6/2023

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF Nick Santell

Case No. 37-2021-00030570 PR-PW-CTL SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO 1100 Union Street San Diego, CA. 92101 Central Courthouse

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate or both, a notice of petition to administer estate of ANTHONY SANTELL aka ANTHONY SANTONOCITO has been filed by Jennifer A. Reardon, SBN: 317686 in the Superior Court of California, County of San Diego, 1100 Union Street, San Diego, CA. 92101 Central Courthouse. The Petition to Administer Estate requests that Jennifer A. Reardon SBN: 317686 be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

A petition for Probate has been filed by (name of petitioner): Nick Santell and Nina Santell in the Superior Court of California, County of San Diego. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless tey have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an ob-

jection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows:

Date: April, 11, 2023

Time: 11:00 am

If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in Section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for petitioner: Jennifer A. Reardon SBN 317686 Reardon Law, PC 3110 Camino del Rio S, Suite 314 San Diego, CA 92108 619-930-9420 DOP: 1/26, 2/2, 2/9/, 2/16/2023

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

37-2023-00007177-CU-PT-NC

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS:

Petitioner Pamela Carrie Hemingway filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: Pamela Carrie Hemmingway to Proposed name Carrie Shannon Perkins. 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