August 20, 2026

Volume 56 - No. 34

August 20, 2026

New Discoveries Offer Hope For Addiction Treatment

By R. L. “Pete” Peterson

treatable medical disorder affecting the brain, behavior, and decision-making processes. Advances in neuroscience have shown that repeated exposure to alcohol or addictive drugs alters the brain’s reward pathways, impairing judgment, increasing cravings, and making abstinence extraordinarily difficult without appropriate treatment. Rather than asking, doesn’t he or she see the damage they are doing to themselves, today’s approach is, “What treatment would give this individual the greatest chance of recovery?”

For centuries drug and alcoholism addiction was viewed as a moral weakness - a failure of character, lack of self-control, selfishness personified. Loved ones struggling with alcoholism or drug dependence were treated as pariahs, a family secret to be hidden away. Treatment consisted of isolation, night time visitations, verbal chastisement and messages about the love of God. Fortunately, today’s advances in medical science have dramatically reshaped the fabric of drug and That shift in thinking has transformed addicalcohol treatment with a more understanding and tion recovery programs. Researchers, physicians, humane approach. counselors, and policymakers increasingly view Today, addiction is recognized as a chronic but recovery as a long-term process instead of a

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single event. Today’s treatment emphasizes evidence-based medicine, mental health care, family involvement, community support, and recovery plans rather than brief episodes of detoxification and attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings. Addiction, however, is a strong foe and remains a significant public health issue in the United States and much of the world.

A Disease Affecting Millions At a recent veterans gathering, with a hundred plus attendees, the question was asked how many have family members suffering from addiction?

All but two hands went up. It’s safe to say drug and alcohol misuse touches nearly every AmeriHOPE - See Page 7

The Paper • Page 2 • August 20, 2026

Give Us This Day Our Daily Chuckle

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

A priest was called away for an emergency.

Not wanting to leave the confessional unattended, he called his rabbi friend from across the street and asked him to cover for him.

The rabbi told him he wouldn’t know what to say, but the priest told him to come on over and he’d stay with him for a little bit and show him what to do.

The rabbi comes and he and the priest are in the confessional booth.

After a few minutes a woman comes in and says “Father forgive me for I have sinned.” The priest asks “What did you do?”.

The woman says “I committed adultery.”

Priest: “How many times?” Woman: “Three times.”

Priest: “Say two Hail Mary’s, put $5 in the box and go and sin no more.”

A few minutes later a man enters the confessional.

He says “Father forgive me for I have sinned.”

Priest: “What did you do?”

Man: “I committed adultery.”

Priest:”How many times?”

Man: “Three times.”

Priest: “Say two Hail Mary’s put $5 in the box and go and sin no more.”

The rabbi tells the priest that he thinks he’s got it so the priest leaves.

A few minutes later another woman enters and says “Father forgive me for I have sinned.” Rabbi: “What did you do?” Woman: “I committed adultery.” Rabbi: “How many times?” Woman: “Once.”

Rabbi: “Go do it two more times.

We have a special this week, three for $5.......... **** 85% of Americans don’t know how to do basic math. Thank God I’mm part of the other 25%. **** If 4 out of 5 people SUFFER from diarrhea.... does that mean that one out of five enjoys it? **** After a tiring day, a commuter settled down in his seat and closed his eyes.

As the train rolled out of the sta-

tion, the young woman sitting next to him pulled out her cell phone and started talking in a loud voice: “Hi sweetheart. It’s Sue. I’m on the train”. “Yes, I know it’s the six thirty and not the four thirty, but I had a long meeting”.

“No, honey, not with that Kevin from the accounting office. It was with the boss”.

“No sweetheart, you’re the only one in my life”.

“Yes, I’m sure, cross my heart!”

Fifteen minutes later, she was still talking loudly.

When the man sitting next to her had enough, he leaned over and said into the phone, “Sue, hang up the phone and come back to bed.”

Sue doesn’t use her cell phone in public any longer. **** If you’re surprised that Epstein committed suicide imagine how surprised he was. **** WHAT YOU SCATTER : I was at the corner grocery store buying some early potatoes... I noticed a small boy, delicate of bone and feature, ragged but clean, hungrily apprising a basket of freshly picked green peas.

I paid for my potatoes but was also drawn to the display of fresh green peas. I am a pushover for creamed peas and new potatoes. ;Pondering the peas, I couldn’t help overhearing the conversation between Mr. Miller (the store owner) and the ragged boy next to me. ;’Hello Barry, how are you today?’ ;’H’lo, Mr. Miller. Fine, thank ya.

Jus’ admirin’ them peas. They sure look good’ ; ; ‘They are good, Barry. How’s your Ma?’ ‘Fine. Gittin’ stronger alla’ time.’

‘Good. Anything I can help you with?’

‘No, Sir. Jus’ admirin’ them peas.’

‘Would you like to take some home?’ asked Mr. Miller. ; ‘No, Sir. Got nuthin’ to pay for ‘em with.’ ; ‘Well, what have you to trade me for some of those peas?’ ; ‘All I got’s my prize marble here.’ ; ‘Is that right? Let me see it’, said Miller. ; ‘Here ‘tis. She’s a dandy.’ ; ‘I can see that. Hmm mmm, only thing is this one is blue and I sort of go for red. Do you have a red one like this at home?’ the store owner asked. ; ‘Not zackley but almost.’ ; ‘Tell you what. Take this sack of peas home with you and next trip this way let me look at that red marble’. Mr. Miller told the boy. ;

‘Sure will. Thanks Mr. Miller.’ ; Mrs. Miller, who had been standing nearby, came over to help me. ; With a smile she said, ‘There are two other boys like him in our community, all three are in very poor circumstances. Jim just loves to bargain with them for peas, apples, tomatoes, or whatever. ; When they come back with their red marbles, and they always do, he decides he doesn’t like red after all and he sends them home with a bag of produce for a green marble or an orange one, when they come on their next trip to the store.’ ; I left the store smiling to myself, impressed with this man. A short time later I moved to Colorado, but I never forgot the story of this man, the boys, and their bartering for marbles. ; Several years went by, each more rapid than the previous one. Just recently I had occasion to visit some old friends in that Idaho community and while I was there learned that Mr. Miller had died. They were having his visitation that evening and knowing my friends wanted to go, I agreed to accompany them.

Upon arrival at the mortuary we fell into line to meet the relatives of the deceased and to offer whatever words of comfort we could. ; Ahead of us in line were three young men. One was in an army uniform and the other two wore nice haircuts, dark suits and white shirts...all very professional looking. They approached Mrs. Miller, standing composed and smiling by her husband’s casket. ; Each of the young men hugged her, kissed her on the cheek, spoke briefly with her and moved on to the casket. Her misty light blue eyes followed them as, one by one; each young man stopped briefly and placed his own warm hand over the cold pale hand in the casket. Each left the mortuary awkwardly, wiping his eyes. ; Our turn came to meet Mrs. Miller.

I told her who I was and reminded her of the story from those many years ago and what she had told me about her husband’s bartering for marbles. With her eyes glistening, she took my hand and led me to the casket. ; ‘Those three young men who just left were the boys I told you about. ; They just told me how they appreciated the things Jim ‘traded’ them. Now, at last, when Jim could not change his mind about color or size....they came to pay their debt.’ ; ‘We’ve never had a great deal of the wealth of this world,’ she confided, ‘but right now, Jim would consider

himself the richest man in Idaho....’ ; With loving gentleness she lifted the lifeless fingers of her deceased husband. Resting underneath were three exquisitely shined red marbles. ; The Moral: We will not be remembered by our words, but by our kind deeds. Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath. **** If someone breaks your heart just punch them in the face. Seriously.

Just punch them in the face. Then go get some ice cream. **** I took a long hard look at myself this morning. I won’t be doing that again. **** I wish everything was as easy as getting fat. **** Light travels faster than sound.

That’s why some people appear bright until you hear them speak. **** One out of four people in this country is mentally unbalanced. Think of three of your closest friends. If they are okay . . . then you are the one. **** Power Tools and how to use them ...

SKIL SAW: A portable cutting tool used to make boards too short.

BELT SANDER: An electric sanding tool commonly used to convert minor touch-up jobs into major refinishing jobs.

WIRE WHEEL: Cleans paint off bolts and then throws them somewhere under the workbench with the speed of light. Also removes fingerprints and hard-earned calluses from fingers in about the time it takes you to say, ‘Oh shit’. Will easily wind a tee shirt off your back.

DRILL PRESS: A tall upright machine useful for suddenly snatching flat metal bar stock out of your hands so that it smacks you in the chest and flings your beer across the room, denting the freshly-painted project which you had carefully set in the corner where nothing could get to it.

Channel Locks: Used to round off bolt heads. Sometimes used in the creation of blood-blisters.

HACKSAW: One of a family of cutting tools built on the Ouija board principle. It transforms human energy into a crooked, unpredictable motion, and the more you attempt to influence its course, the more dismal your future becomes.

VISE-GRIPS: Generally used after pliers to completely round off bolt heads. If nothing else is available, they can also be used to transfer intense welding heat to the palm of your hand.

OXYACETYLENE TORCH: Used almost entirely for igniting various CHUCKLES See Page 3

The Paper • Page 3 • August 20, 2026

CHUCKLES From Page 2

flammable objects in your shop and creating a fire. Also handy for igniting the grease inside the wheel hub out of which you want to remove a bearing race.

TABLE SAW: A large stationary power tool commonly used to launch wood projectiles for testing wall integrity. Very effective for digit removal!!

HYDRAULIC FLOOR JACK: Used for lowering an automobile to the ground after you have installed your new brake shoes, trapping the jack handle firmly under the bumper.

BAND SAW: A large stationary power saw primarily used by most shops to cut large pieces into smaller pieces that more easily fit into the trash after you cut on the inside of the line instead of the outside edge. Also excels at amputations.

TWO-TON ENGINE HOIST: A tool for testing the maximum tensile strength of all the crap you forgot to disconnect.

PHILLIPS SCREWDRIVER: Normally used to stab the vacuum seals under lids or for opening oldstyle paper-and-tin oil cans and splashing oil on your shirt; but can also be used, as the name implies, to strip out Phillips screw heads.

STRAIGHT SCREWDRIVER: A tool for opening paint cans. Sometimes used to convert common slotted screws into non-removable screws and butchering your palms.

PRY BAR: A tool used to crumple the metal surrounding that clip or bracket you needed to remove in order to replace a 50 cent part.

PVC PIPE CUTTER: A tool used to make plastic pipe too short.

HAMMER: Originally employed as a weapon of war, the hammer nowadays is used as a kind of divining rod to locate the most expensive parts adjacent to the object you are trying to hit. Also very effective at fingernail removal.

UTILITY KNIFE: Used to open and slice through the contents of cardboard cartons delivered to your front door. Works particularly well on contents such as seats, vinyl records, liquids in plastic bottles, collector magazines, refund checks, and rubber or plastic parts.

Especially useful for slicing work clothes, but only while in use.

These can also be used to initiate a trip to the emergency room so a doctor can sew up the damage.

SON OF A BITCH TOOL: Any handy tool that you grab and throw across the garage while yelling ‘Son of a bitch’ at the top of your lungs. It is also, most often, the next tool that you will need. **** THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: That lowdown scoundrel needs to be kicked by a jackass and I am just the one to do it.” – Texas Congressional candidate. **** JEWISH POKER CLUB Six retired Jewish Floridian fel-

lows were playing poker in the condo clubhouse when Meyer loses $500 on a single hand, clutches his chest, and drops dead at the table Showing respect for their fallen comrade, the other five continue playing, but standing up.

At the end of the game, Finklestein looks around and asks, “So, who’s gonna tell his wife?”

They cut the cards. Goldberg picks the low card and has to carry the news. They tell him to be discreet, be gentle, don’t make a bad situation any worse.

“Discreet? I’m the most discreet person you’ll ever meet. Discretion is my middle name. Leave it to me.”

Goldberg goes over to the Meyer’s condo and knocks on the door.

The wife answers through the door and asks what he wants? Goldberg declares:Your husband just lost $500 in a poker game and is afraid to come home.”

“Tell him to drop dead!” yells the wife.

“I’ll go tell him.” says Goldberg. **** Sex After Surgery A recent article in the Kentucky Post reported that a woman, one Anne Maynard, has sued St Luke’s hospital, saying that after her husband had surgery there, he lost all interest in sex.

A hospital spokesman replied ...

“Mr. Maynard was admitted in Ophthalmology – all we did was correct his eyesight.” **** Blonde riding a horse A blonde decides to try horseback riding, even though she has had no lessons, nor prior experience. She mounts the horse unassisted, and the horse immediately springs into motion. It gallops along at a steady and rhythmic pace, but the blonde begins to slide from the saddle.

In terror, she grabs for the horse’s mane, but cannot seem to get a firm grip. She tries to throw her arms around the horse’s neck, but she slides down the horse’s side anyway. The horse gallops along, seemingly impervious to its slipping rider.

Finally, giving up her frail grip, the blonde attempts to leap away from the horse and throw herself to safety. Unfortunately, her foot has become entangled in the stirrup, she is now at the mercy of the horse’s pounding hooves as her head is struck against the ground.

As her head is battered against the ground, she is mere moments away from unconsciousness when to her great fortune . . . Frank, the Walmart greeter, sees her dilemma, and unplugs the horse.

And you thought all they did was say Hello. **** Nobody can make fun of the Jews better than the Jews. I received this from a Jewish friend in Omaha.

Jewish Haiku On Passover we

Opened the door for Elijah.

Now our dog is gone.

Jewish Buddhism: If it be there is no self, Whose arthritis is this?

Beyond Valium, Peace is knowing one’s child Is an internist.

After the warm rain The sweet smell of camellias.

Did you wipe your feet?

Her lips near my ear, Aunt Sadie whispers the name Of her friend’s disease.

Today I am a man; Tomorrow I will return To the seventh grade.

Testing the warm milk On her wrist, she sighs softly.

But her child is forty.

The sparkling blue sea Reminds me to wait an hour After eating lunch.

Jews on safari -Map, compass, elephant gun, Chocolate candies The same kimono The top geishas are wearing: I got at Loehmann’s.

Mom, please! There is no Need to put that dinner roll In your pocketbook.

Sorry I’m not home To take your call. At the tone, Please state your bad news.

Is one Nobel Prize So much to ask from a child After all I’ve done?

Today, mild shvitzing.

Tomorrow, so hot you’ll plotz Five-day forecast: Feh Yenta, Shmeer, Shlemiel, Shlimazl, Meshuganah.

Oy! To be fluent!

Quietly murmured At Saturday Synagogue services: Yankees 5, Red Sox 3.

A lovely nose ring.

Excuse me while I put my Head in the oven.

Hard to tell under The lights. white Yarmulke or Male-pattern baldness.

Be here now. Be some Place else later. Is that So complicated?

Drink tea and nourish life; With the first sip, joy; With the second sip, satisfaction; With the third sip, peace; With the fourth, a Danish.

Wherever you go, There you are. Your luggage Is another story.

A thousand miles journey Begins with a single Oy. Zen is not easy.

Accept misfortune as a blessing.

Do not wish for perfect health, or a life without problems.

What would you talk about?

It takes effort to Attain nothingness. And then What do you have? Bupkis.

The Tao does not speak The Tao does not blame.

The Tao does not take sides.

The Tao has no expectations.

The Tao demands nothing of others The Tao is not Jewish.

Breathe in, Breathe out.

Forget this and attaining Enlighten-

ment will Be the least of your problems.

Deep inside you are ten thousand flowers.

Each flower blossoms ten thousand times.

Each blossom has ten thousand petals.

You might want to see a specialist.

Be aware of your body.

Be aware of your perceptions.

Keep in mind that not every physical Sensation is a symptom of a terminal illness.

The Torah says, Love Your neighbor as yourself. The Buddha says there is no self.

So, maybe we’re off the hook. **** Things you young ‘uns probably never knew . . .

The year was 1949: Income per year: $2,950 Minimum wage 40 cents New house $7,450 New car $1,420 Gallon of gas 26 cents Gallon of milk 84 cents Loaf of bread 14 cents First class stamp 3 cents Movie ticket 46 cents **** Vern works hard at the Phone Company but spends two nights each week bowling, and plays golf every Saturday. His wife thinks he’s pushing himself too hard, so for his birthday she takes him to a local strip club.

The doorman at the club greets them and says, ‘Hey, Vern! How ya doin?’

His wife is puzzled and asks if he’s been to this club before.

‘Oh no,’ says Vern. ‘He’s in my bowling league.

When they are seated, a waitress asks Vern if he’d like his usual and brings over a Budweiser.

His wife is becoming increasingly uncomfortable and says, ‘How did she know that you drink Budweiser?’

‘I recognize her, she’s the waitress from the golf club. I always have a Bud at the end of the 1st nine, honey.’

A stripper then comes over to their table, throws her arms around Vern, starts to rub herself all over him and says, ‘Hi Vern. Want your usual table dance, big boy?’

Vern’s wife, now furious, grabs her purse and storms out of the club.

Vern follows and spots her getting into a cab.

Before she can slam the door, he jumps in beside her.

Vern tries desperately to explain how the stripper must have mistaken him for someone else, but his wife is having none of it.

She is screaming at him at the top of her lungs, calling him every 4 letter word in the book.

The cabby turns around and says, ‘Geez Vern, you picked up a real bitch this time.’

VERN’S FUNERAL WILL BE CHUCKLES See Page 14

The Paper • Page 4 • August 20, 2026

can proxies. Most importantly, the United States should recognize that the decisive force must ultimately come from inside Iran.

Why Regime Change Is a Reasonable Objective

Man About Town by lyle e davis Thinking Out Loud . . . a lot is going on in Iran. A lot of Persian (Iranian) people are suffering. What to do?Some thoughtss: Iran After the Islamic Republic: A U.S. Strategy for Regime Change and Political Transition Iran now represents one of the most consequential strategic questions facing the United States. The Islamic Republic has spent decades challenging American interests, supporting militant organizations, threatening Israel and other U.S. allies, and pursuing capabilities that could eventually permit it to become a nuclear-armed regional power. The confrontation has now moved beyond the traditional pattern of sanctions, proxy conflicts, and diplomatic negotiations. Since the outbreak of the current U.S.Iran war in February 2026, American military pressure, economic sanctions, and a naval blockade have placed unprecedented pressure on Tehran. As of August 16, Washington and Tehran remain far apart, while the Strait of Hormuz remains a central point of confrontation.

The question, therefore, is no longer simply whether the United States should contain Iran. It is whether the Islamic Republic can or should be replaced—and, if so, what political structure should succeed it.

The strongest U.S. policy would be to pursue Iranian-led regime change while avoiding an American occupation or an attempt to impose a government from outside. The United States should support Iranian democratic forces, encourage defections from the regime’s security apparatus, protect the territorial integrity of Iran, and prepare for a political transition. Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s last shah, deserves serious consideration as a potential transitional figure. Iranian Kurds and other ethnic minorities should be incorporated into the transition rather than simply used as Ameri-

The Islamic Republic is not simply another authoritarian government with which Washington has policy disagreements. Its political system is built around the principle that ultimate political authority belongs to religious institutions and revolutionary organizations rather than to freely elected citizens. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has become both a military organization and a powerful political and economic institution.

The regime has also demonstrated its willingness to suppress domestic opposition and to treat foreign influence as an existential threat. On August 16, 2026, Iran’s parliament advanced legislation that would impose criminal penalties on certain contacts with foreign media and organizations, further demonstrating the government’s concern about foreign influence and internal dissent.

From the American perspective, a post-Islamic Republic Iran could potentially remove several major sources of instability simultaneously: support for militant proxies, confrontation with Israel, threats to Gulf states, and the continuing nuclear problem.

But regime change should not be confused with military conquest.

The United States can destroy military infrastructure much more easily than it can create a legitimate government. The experience of Iraq demonstrates the danger of assuming that eliminating an adversarial regime automatically produces a stable political order.

The objective should therefore be regime transformation, not American occupation.

Reza Pahlavi: The Most Logical Transitional Figure?

If the Islamic Republic collapses, the obvious question is: who replaces it?

Reza Pahlavi, the son of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, Iran’s last shah, is the most internationally recognizable figure in the Iranian opposition.

He has spent decades advocating the end of the Islamic Republic and now describes himself as a potential “bridge” to a democratic future rather than simply as a claimant to the throne.

There are obvious advantages to his position. His name is known throughout Iran and the Iranian diaspora. For some Iranians, par-

ticularly those who associate the pre-1979 period with greater secularism, economic opportunity, and national prestige, the Pahlavi name has considerable symbolic value.

He also has relationships with Western political and media circles that few other Iranian opposition figures possess.

Yet his greatest strength—his visibility—is also a weakness.

Reuters reported in July that Pahlavi’s effort to build a unified opposition movement had faltered.

The Iranian opposition remains deeply divided among monarchists, republicans, ethnic organizations, secular activists, leftists, and other factions. Reuters also reported that Pahlavi has struggled to establish sufficient organizational support inside Iran.

Consequently, Washington should resist the temptation to announce Pahlavi as Iran’s next ruler.

The better policy would be to recognize him as a potentially important transitional leader whose ultimate legitimacy must be determined

by Iranians themselves.

If the Iranian people eventually choose a constitutional monarchy, that would be their decision. If they choose a secular republic, that should also be respected. Pahlavi’s greatest possible contribution may therefore be to help create the political bridge through which Iranians can choose their own constitutional system.

Are American Special Forces Already Inside Iran?

One proposition frequently raised in discussions of regime change is that the United States may already have Special Operations Forces inside Iran working with Israeli intelligence services such as Mossad.

There is an important analytical distinction here. Covert intelligence cooperation between the United States and Israel is hardly implausible, and the two countries possess extensive intelligence relationships. But there is insufficient publicly verified information to responsibly state that particular American units—such as Green Berets or SEAL teams—are currently operating inside Iran.

That uncertainty should not distract from the larger strategic issue.

If American intelligence or special operations personnel are assisting activities inside Iran, their greatest value would be in enabling an Iranian political transition rather than attempting to substitute for one.

American capabilities could theoretically help with intelligence collection, communications, evacuation, protection of vulnerable individuals,

and coordination among legitimate political actors.

But the United States should avoid becoming the visible author of an Iranian uprising. Tehran would exploit overt American involvement to portray domestic opponents as foreign agents. Indeed, Iran’s newly proposed restrictions on contact with foreign organizations demonstrate precisely how seriously the regime views the threat of foreign influence.

The less the transition appears to be an American creation, the greater its prospects for legitimacy.

Should the United States Arm the Kurds?

Iran’s Kurdish population presents Washington with both an opportunity and a serious strategic dilemma.

Iranian Kurds have experienced discrimination and political repression for decades, and Kurdish opposition organizations possess political networks and, in some cases, armed capabilities. Supporting them could place additional pressure on Tehran and potentially force the regime to divide its security forces across multiple fronts.

However, turning Iranian Kurds into an American “proxy army” would be strategically dangerous.

Iran is a multiethnic country.

Kurds represent an important part of its population, but they are only one of several major ethnic communities. If Washington were perceived as arming Kurdish forces to seize Iranian territory, Tehran could portray the entire opposition as an American-sponsored project to dismember Iran.

That would be particularly dangerous because Iranian nationalism is considerably broader than support for the Islamic Republic.

Many Iranians who oppose the regime nevertheless strongly support the territorial integrity of their country.

The American objective should therefore be Kurdish inclusion, not Kurdish exploitation.

Washington should support Kurdish political rights, cultural rights, local autonomy where appropriate, and meaningful representation in a future Iranian government. But the United States should seek to incorporate Kurdish leaders into an all-Iranian coalition rather than encourage an independent ethnic military campaign.

A democratic Iran that respects Kurdish rights would be a much stronger American partner than a fragmented Iran divided among competing militias.

MAN ABOUT TOWN See Page 5

The Paper • Page 5 • August 20, 2026

Unlocking the Power of Home Equity I’d like to take just a moment to express my thanks to Lyle Davis. If you’ve read The Paper, you know that we met WAY BACK in 1975 or so when I was working at the Vineyard Wine & Cheese Deli. He was a big shot at KOWN and would sometimes grab lunch there. He was always very nice to me, a high school kid working at the sandwich shop. So all these years later, we came to get reacquainted.

With Lyle selling The Paper, he’s venturing into the realm of retirement. I don’t think he’ll go quietly. After all, he will still offer The Man About Town. If we’re lucky, he’ll still share an article or two. Lyle has been a good friend and I will miss working with him. I’m sure I’m not alone.

Thank you again Lyle for being a good friend to me and a great friend to Escondido and North County!

I have had some clients lately who do not want to get a reverse mortgage. They are looking for a way out of debt and some new HELOC programs may be the answer to their search. Sometimes, if the borrower is younger and still working, a HELOC is the solution for them. I have found loans for these clients of mine and they are enjoying relief from the high interest rates charged by the credit card companies.

MAN ABOUT TOWN From Page 4

It’s so expensive to live and sometimes, those credit cards are just the answer! But nothing is free and that type of solution keeps getting larger and larger. But with home equity, you can reduce that monthly payment. That can offer a little more breathing room every month.

I am still an extremely strong advocate for utilizing the equity you’ve built up in your home.

That sentiment is also shared by many adult children of senior homeowners. The ability you have to retain your independence is very important.

Adult children have their own financial responsibilities and stresses. They also have to prepare for their own retirement.

The paradigm of inheriting the family home has shifted. Many adult children have a home, and if not, they have a different ideal of the type of home they own. More than likely, they would sell the “family” home and search for their own “family” home.

Utilizing the equity you have built up in your home is your ticket to financial freedom. Even if you don’t use the money to travel the world, that release of financial stress may feel lighter, and you may even find joy in the little things again.

encourage a broad-based national The Most Powerful Weapon: movement capable of persuading elements of the Iranian state that their The Iranian People future does not depend upon preThe decisive factor in regime serving the Islamic Republic. change is unlikely to be American A Better American Strategy soldiers or foreign proxy forces. It is the Iranian population itself.

The United States should therefore Iran has a population exceeding 90 million, a highly educated urban pursue five broad objectives.

First, maintain pressure on the population, extensive communicaregime.

Economic and diplomatic tions networks, and a long history of opposition to government poli- pressure should remain available, cies. If the Islamic Republic loses particularly against organizations the confidence of enough of its own responsible for repression and milipopulation—and particularly if por- tary aggression. Current U.S. policy tions of its military and security ap- is already moving in this direction, paratus cease defending it—the re- with Washington considering additional sanctions while maintaining a gime could become unsustainable.

This is the central strategic oppor- naval blockade.

Second, support the Iranian optunity for Washington. position without selecting Iran’s The United States should help create the conditions in which Iranians permanent government. Reza can organize politically, communi- Pahlavi should have an opportunity cate internationally, document abus- to participate, but so should republies, maintain independent sources of cans, ethnic minorities, civil-society information, and prepare credible leaders, women’s organizations, and institutions for a post-Islamic Re- other democratic factions.

Third, prepare for a transition. public government.

That does not mean encouraging Washington and its allies should quietly develop plans for humanitarian indiscriminate guerrilla warfare.

A widespread insurgency could assistance, restoration of essential produce precisely the outcome services, protection of infrastrucWashington should want to avoid: ture, and the preservation of Iran’s civil war, ethnic conflict, criminal- territorial integrity if the central ization of the economy, competing government collapses.

Fourth, encourage defections militias, refugee flows, and an eventual vacuum that could be filled by rather than indiscriminate destruction. Members of Iran’s milianother authoritarian movement.

The United States should instead tary and security institutions should

I hope if you are feeling the pinch of the high cost of living that you would give me a call to just have a talk about your dreams, desires and goals.

After all, you did build that equity sitting in your home. California is a prime spot in our country with beauty all around us. Take advantage of living in California and all that provides.

Laura Strickler, Retirement Loan Specialist EquitySmart Home Loans NMLS #315848 760-518-9839 lauras@equitysmartloans.com www.laurastrickler.com

understand that abandoning the Islamic Republic need not mean abandoning Iran. A future government will require civil servants, police, military professionals, engineers, doctors, and other institutional expertise.

Finally, insist that the Iranian people determine the final political settlement. Whether Iran eventually becomes a parliamentary republic, presidential republic, constitutional monarchy, or some other democratic system must be decided through an Iranian constitutional process.

Conclusion The United States may have an historic opportunity to help bring an end to the Islamic Republic, but it should not repeat the mistake of believing that military victory automatically produces political legitimacy.

Reza Pahlavi is probably the most recognizable potential transitional figure, but recognition is not a mandate. He should be supported as a possible participant in a transition, not installed as Iran’s ruler.

The Kurds should likewise be treated as essential partners in building a democratic Iran, not simply as an American proxy army. Their rights and security should be guaranteed within a broader national settlement.

And claims that American Special Forces are already operating inside

Iran should remain treated as unverified unless credible evidence becomes public.

The most strategically sound American objective is therefore neither occupation nor endless proxy warfare. It is to help create the conditions for an Iranian-led political revolution that produces a sovereign, democratic, territorially intact, and internationally responsible Iran.

If the Islamic Republic falls, the United States will face a choice. It can attempt to control what comes next, or it can help Iranians build the institutions necessary to control their own future. The second approach is harder, slower, and less predictable—but it offers the far better chance of producing a stable Iran and a durable American strategic victory.

One man’s opinion.

The Paper • Page 6 • August 20, 2026

5th District Supervisor • Jim Desmond Our small businesses deserve a fair shot to comply — not a courtroom trap

By JIM DESMOND Walk down any of our main streets and you’ll see what makes this county work: the family-run restaurant that’s been in the same spot for a generation, the corner retail shop, the small hotel run by the people whose name is on the door. These businesses are the backbone of our neighborhoods. And right now, a growing number of them are being targeted by a legal scheme that has nothing to do with the cause it claims to serve.

Here’s the problem. California now leads the nation in lawsuits filed under the Americans with Disabilities Act, with more than 3,000 filed in 2025 alone. But the vast majority of these cases aren’t brought by neighbors who were genuinely denied access. They’re driven by a small handful of serial plaintiffs and law firms that have turned our courts into a business model — filing thousands of near-identical suits over minor, often technical issues that do nothing to improve real access for people with disabilities.

The targets are almost always the same: the family-run restaurant, the corner shop, the local hotel — many of them minority-owned, family-owned “mom and pop” operations working on thin margins. Faced with legal bills they can’t afford, most owners feel forced to settle, even when the alleged violation is trivial. As policy analysts like Marc Joffe have documented, this isn’t accessibility enforcement. It’s a predatory cottage industry, and small businesses make for an easy mark.

This is not an argument for weakening the ADA. Everyone should be able to walk into any business open to the public. That principle is not up for debate, and nothing I’m proposing touches it. The ADA’s protections are a promise this country made to people with disabilities, and that promise must be kept in full.

What I am asking for is common sense: a statewide “right to cure.”

Under this approach, a business that receives notice of an alleged violation gets a reasonable window to actually fix the problem before facing a costly lawsuit. Fix the issue, and the case goes away. It’s fair warning instead of a legal ambush — and it puts money toward ramps and doorways instead of attorney’s fees. The result is better access for people with disabilities and a fair shot for the businesses trying to serve them.

That’s why, at our next Board of Supervisors meeting, I’m bringing forward an item to do exactly that. My letter asks my colleagues to direct our Chief Administrative Officer to add support for statewide right-tocure legislation — legislation that preserves every ADA accessibility protection — to the County’s official Legislative Program. It is a straightforward step that increases fairness in enforcement without diminishing a single protection for people with disabilities. And it comes at no cost to the General Fund.

Some will argue that any change to how these cases are handled chips away at civil rights. I understand the instinct, and I take it seriously.

But a system that funnels settlement dollars to a handful of repeat filers — while doing nothing to add a single ramp — serves no one with a disability. A right to cure aligns the incentives with the goal: access gets fixed, and it gets fixed faster.

Our small businesses are the backbone of the Fifth District and of this county. They create the jobs, anchor our neighborhoods, and give our communities their character. They deserve a fair chance to comply, not a courtroom trap that treats a good-faith mistake as a payday.

I hope our residents will follow this item with me in the weeks ahead, and I welcome your thoughts. Standing up for our small businesses and honoring our commitment to accessibility are not competing goals.

Done right, they are the same goal.

Jim Desmond is a member of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors. He represents the 5th District, which includes Escondido, Valley Center, Pauma Valley, Palomar Mountain and much of the Backcountry.

San Marcos Mayor • Rebecca Jones After-school care made easier for San Marcos families It’s back-to-school time in San Marcos! As families across our community settle into new routines, I want to wish our students, teachers, school staff and families a wonderful start to the new school year.

And even though school is back in session, summer fun in San Marcos isn’t over quite yet! We still have two more Summer Concerts and one more Movie in the Park to enjoy before we officially say goodbye to another great summer.

For San Marcos Unified School District families looking for a safe, convenient and affordable option for after-school care, the City of San Marcos has you covered with Rec Club.

This Parks & Recreation program gives full-day TK and elementary students a place to go after school where they can play, create, enjoy a snack and get homework help in a safe, supportive environment with trained city staff.

I hope you’ll join us for the remaining summer events and that the new school year gets off to a great start. To all of our students, teachers, school staff and families, best wishes for a safe, successful and fun year ahead!

Rec Club is available Monday through Friday from school dismissal until 6 p.m. at the San Marcos Community Center and San Elijo Recreation Center. Families can also take advantage of SMUSD bus service from participating schools to the recreation centers, making it even easier to fit afterschool care into the family schedule. A separate bus pass is required through SMUSD. Registration for the 2026-27 school year is open now, with care available from August through next June. If you’re looking for a reliable place for your child to spend the afternoon while you finish the workday, Rec Club offers a combination of care, fun and learning in a familiar community setting.

For more information about Rec Club, registration and transportation, or to explore other programs and activities offered by the city, visit sanmarcosca.gov.

Summer Concert Series 1148 Rock Springs Road Saturday, Aug. 22 — Livin’ On A Prayer Saturday, Sept. 19 — Journeymen Band Movies in the Park Las Posas Park, 1387 W. Borden Road Friday, Sept. 4 — Goat

The Paper • Page 7 • August 20, 2026

HOPE From Page 1

can family, directly or indirectly.

The latest federal estimates show approximately 48.4 million Americans aged 12 and older experience substance use disorder; an additional 30 million suffer from alcohol use disorder. Millions experience both simultaneously.

Behind the statistics are the real people - the functioning alcoholic father struggling to keep his job; the teenager experimenting with fentanyl-laced pills because his classmate shared tales of a great high; the grandmother raising grandchildren because their parents’ presence was erased by addiction; the veteran battling both post-traumatic stress disorder and opioid dependence; the executive whose successful career masks a dangerous dependence on prescription medications.

Addiction Loves Everyone Addiction affects the wealthy and the poor; urban communities and rural towns; immigrants, and life-long residents; senior citizens and the high school football star; Blacks, Whites, Reds, and Browns, Democrats, Republicans, Independents, Catholics, Baptists, Mormon, all are fair game to addiction.

availability of naloxone - a medication that can rapidly reverse opioid overdoses. Communities across the country now train teachers, police officers, librarians, and ordinary citizens to administer naloxone. A recent article in the San Francisco Chronicle told of a coach administering naloxone to a young lady attending a soccer match that saved her life.

Recent federal data offers cautious optimism: overdose deaths have declined from their peak in 2022, thanks to wider naloxone availability. Equally important has been expanded access to medication-assisted treatment, improved public education, and safe places addicts can access to get high. Nevertheless, overdose deaths remain and public health officials stress the crisis is far from over.

Alcohol: America’s Quiet Epidemic

Although fentanyl usage and deaths and dominate the headlines, alcohol continues to cause more long-term illness than any other addictive substance. Recently, my daughters and I stopped at an Ohio diner a little before 7 o’clock one morning. The server handed us menus with the alcoholic drink As often happens, in this world menu on top. of if it bleeds it leads, encouraging “A bit early for me,” I said, handstatistics receive far less attention than do overdose deaths or arrest ing the drink menu back. As she records. Federal data shows that took our orders she said, “We offer among adults who say they once unlimited mimosas today,” greeting had a substance use problem, three- our refusal with a frown. Breakfast quarters consider themselves to be arrived. “Would you like a draft in recovery. This finding reinforces beer with your omelet, or would an essential message often lost in you prefer a bottle of IPA?” the statistics: recovery is achievThat my friends, is a good closable. ing question any sales professional would appreciate, but I took her reThe Continuing Fentanyl Crisis mark as pressure to buy booze and No discussion of drug addiction said the same. “I’m doing as incan ignore fentanyl the continuing structed,” she said. In my opinion, fentanyl crisis. Originally devel- the continual push to use alcohol, oped as a powerful prescription pain its prevalence and easy availabilmedication, illicitly manufactured ity are why it’s a medical burden. fentanyl has become the dominant Alcohol is a major contributor to driver of opioid overdose deaths liver disease, heart disease, several in America today - inexpensive to forms of cancer, neurological dammanufacture, extraordinarily potent age, depression, anxiety, domestic and easily transported, illegal labo- violence, motor vehicle fatalities, ratories frequently mix fentanyl and workplace accidents. into heroin, counterfeit prescription It is a legal drug, widely acpills, methamphetamine, cocaine. cepted socially, easily accessed and One counterfeit pill may contain promoted as an aid to relaxation, so enough fentanyl to cause respira- excessive use is easily overlooked. tory failure and death as happened A troubling reality in treating to Hal Knoerle of Pala Alto, CA. According to police reports he and alcohol use disorder (today’s prea friend overdosed in Hal’s motor ferred term for alcoholic), is that home Wednesday night His bloated many do not receive the medicabody was found Saturday afternoon tions that would improve their reby his daughter. One wrong deci- covery chances. The latest national data shows less than 3.0 percent of sion. One pill. One life lost. those in treatment receive the medPublic awareness campaigns ication-assisted treatment they need have helped reduce accidental over- despite strong evidence that three dose deaths, as has the increased relative new medicines, naltrexone,

acamprosate, and disulfiram work. Medical Science to the Rescue Closing this treatment gap repreAmong the most significant resents a great opportunity to imcent advances has been the wideproved recovery in my opinion. spread use of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) - more commonWhy Addiction Happens ly referred to as medications for Researchers no longer search for opioid use disorder (MOUD), this a single cause of addiction because once controversial treatment prono single cause exists. Addiction gram is now considered the gold develops through the interaction of standard for many patients to renumerous biological, psychologi- duce cravings, lower overdose risk cal, social, and environmental influ- and improve long-term recovery ences. Some of us inherit genetic outcomes. vulnerabilities that increase our Three medications, Methadone, susceptibility to dependence. (On a personal note, family research stabilizes brain chemistry and reshows my paternal grandfather was duces overdose chances. Tw others, a heavy drinker as was my great Buprenorphine, and Naltrexone, grandfather. Dad drank hard and of- block the effects of opioids entirely, ten. Is it any wonder I too, became making them important options in a drunk? (I’m 53-plus years sober, treatment. Critics argue these medithank you.) In addition, childhood cations simply substitute one drug trauma, abuse, neglect, or chronic for another. Addiction specialists stress may alter emotional devel- disagree, saying the objective is opment and coping skills as well. not merely abstinence but restored Mental illnesses - depression, bipo- health, reduced harm, overdose prelar disorder, anxiety, and post-trau- vention, and helping those in recovmatic stress disorder - frequently ery to rebuild their lives - evidence coexist with substance use disor- shows these properly prescribed ders, creating a complex cycle in medications do just that, improving which each condition worsens the recovery outcomes greatly. other. These are tough nuts to crack.

Alcohol Use Disorder Social influences play a role Alcohol use disorder has long as well. Easy access to addictive been treated primarily through substances, peer pressure, unemployment, chronic pain, loneliness, counseling, peer-support groups family dysfunction, economic chal- (AA), and residential rehabilitation. lenges all contribute to increased While these remain valuable oprisk. Modern neuroscience de- tions, medical advances are increasscribes addiction not as a failure of ingly being recognized as powerful willpower but as a disorder involv- tools that complement therapy, paring altered brain circuitry. Those bi- ticularly FDA-approved medicaological changes help explain why tions, Naltrexone which reduces many who are addicted may sin- the pleasurable effects of alcohol; cerely wish to quit, yet they can’t as Acamprosate which stabilizes brain the cravings win and they relapse. chemistry during alcohol withThis distinction has reduced the drawal, and Disulfiram which crestigma of addiction to a degree and ates unpleasant physical reactions encouraged heavy users and drink- if alcohol is consumed – a familiar ers to seek professional treatment. variation of the Drink and Die treatYes, progress is being made, but ad- ment of the late fifties and early sixdiction remains a significant public ties. health challenge.

In researching this article, I enA generation or so ago, addiction treatment often consisted of detoxification followed by counseling and the hope the person’s resolve to stop drinking or using would prevent relapse. Counseling remains a cornerstone of recovery; today’s treatment landscape has evolved dramatically as advances in neuroscience, pharmacology, behavioral health, and digital technology transform addiction medicine into the fastest-growing specialty in healthcare.

The central message emerging from decades of research is both simple and profound: there is no single cure for addiction because there is no single cause. Successful treatment must address the whole person—not merely the substance being misused.

countered healthcare providers who remained unaware of pharmaceutical options, often chiding me with, “There’s no magic pill to make an alcoholic drink like a normal person.” That was not my concern – I was concerned with the treatment process, i.e., well trained counselors and medical personnel working as a team, often produce miracles.

The Mind and Addiction

When Leo Cardenas, an Army veteran, sought help for his PTSD and alcohol misuse, he received trauma-focused therapy alongside addiction counseling rather than each problem being treated independently. “I thought I’d be out of work for weeks,” he said. “I was in and out of the treatment center HOPE See Page 12

The Paper • Page 8 • August 20, 2026

The Paper • Page 9 • August 20, 2026

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Rage

By Pastor Huls

Pastor Huls

Recently, we witnessed unbelievable rage when two cars were involved in a minor auto accident on Interstate 5 and Tamarack in Carlsbad. It led to a confrontation where one party sought revenge by stabbing an occupant in the other car. This led to an arrest and charges of attempted murder. The projected punishment is years in prison if the offender is found guilty. We identify this behavior as rage, which is defined as violent and uncontrollable anger. We are seeing more and more of this behavior on the roadways. I experience it at times when I am waiting for a light change and don’t move fast enough for the driver behind me. I am told by a blaring horn that I am

taking too much time to move.

This impatience is usually demonstrated by a speeding car or truck and a hand or finger sign. If one is moving too slowly for the traffic, you become a victim of rage. Recently, a friend told me of an incident where a person took a parking space that another driver was waiting for. In anger, the offended person shot and killed the one who took the parking spot.It is only right that we draw a line between rage and anger. We all get angry. When we are offended, abused, deceived, lied to, taken advantage of, or minimized in conversation, it becomes a challenge for our ego.

Jesus takes a strong stand against those who abuse their fellowman by condemning those who call others “fools.” That act can lead to rage. Most of us are very protective of ourselves. Rage is a way of defense. That is why Jesus and the Scriptures tell us, “Do not let the sun go down on our anger. You must resolve your anger as soon as possible.”When rage takes over, destruction follows. One of the most serious

Pet Parade

Cornflake Girl Cornflake Girl is a 1-yearold, 7-pound, female, Domestic Short Hair cat. She was transferred to Rancho Coastal Humane Society through Friends of County Animal Shelters (FOCAS).She’s an outgoing cat who loves people. She will do best with adopters who can provide her with structure and plenty of playtime.The $100 adoption fee for Cornflake Girl includes medical exam, spay, up to date vaccinations, and registered microchip. Adopt her during Clear the Shelters through August 31st and her adoption fee will be waived. For more information visit Rancho Coastal Humane Society in Encinitas or log on to www.SDpets.org. Open from 11 AM to 4 PM every day but Tuesday.

issues that police officers have to deal with is rage, especially between couples. That rage can lead to killing a spouse and those who intervene. This happens whenever a person allows anger to descend into rage. It becomes an uncontrollable matter. It is not uncommon when one sees the horror of abuse, especially in history and wartime battles.A final note of reflection is rage against God. It is said by some that in the final days of judgment humanity will rage against God. I don’t know about that, but I do find an anger that leads to a violent rejection of God. It is because there is violence in the mind, soul, and belief that God is unjust, unmerciful, and uncaring in this world of suffering, pain, and death. The response is rage in the sense of rejecting God, and while it might not seem sensible, there is a belief that God wants humanity to love and serve Him. The rejection of that is anger turned to rage. Does this hurt God? Your belief system will have to determine that. A few simple steps might help in our

daily walk. There will always be offenses. The reaction usually is anger. If this is controlled and seen for what it is, with action to resolve it, then rage will not follow. Two simple solutions have been used for control: the first is to count to ten before responding, and the second is to take a walk around the block and think it through.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Thank you for including the press release about the Bradley Pettit Harpsichord/ Piano Recital in Oodles in today's edition.

-William Olszanicky

Pet of the Week

King Reminder: It’s Clear the Shelters Month! From August 1-30, adoption fees are 50% off for every single pet (except horses)!

Say hello to King! King is a happy-go-lucky friend who brings lots of joy everywhere he goes! He’s full of energy too, and will love to play the day away with his favorite people. He can get a little overexcited sometimes, and may need a little help with learning his best manners. As our resident goofball, King never fails to put a smile on everyone’s face!

He is very loving and has a cuddly side he isn’t afraid to show as well. Visit San Diego Humane Society’s Escondido Campus (3500 Burnet Drive) to adopt King today! If you have questions about the adoption process, you can visit sdhumane.org or call 619-299-7012.

Online profile: sdhumane.org/adopt/available-pets/986920/king/

The Paper • Page 11 • August 20, 2026

“Times they are a-changin” Bob Dylan was right. Since we crawled out of the trees 400,000 years ago, the older generations have passed on the knowledge accrued over a lifetime to the younger generations.

This storehouse of practical lore was, passed on by demonstration and word of mouth and valued by the younger generations.

For thousands of years age and wisdom were linked together and the “senior citizens” were accorded due respect. Then came the written word and scrolls preserved in ancient “libraries” follow by books. Then radio and television. And in mid 2001, the IW (intelligent web) was born.

The IW sought to link humanities entire knowledge base with an AI (artificial intelligence) to process it for solutions.

The technology explosion of the 21st century administered the “Coup de Grace” to the 400,000 year reign of the “senior citizen” as the repository and dispenser of human history and acquired knowledge. The 2001 introduction of the IW (Intelligent Web) combined the growing sum of man’s knowledge with AI. Today anyone with a smart phone, tablet or computer has access to the latest human knowledge and the AI to parse it. Time and technology have eliminated much of the status of the archetypal “senior citizen” as the source of important knowledge and wisdom. Younger adults rarely seek council from “senior citizens” nor do they listen to the wisdom

of Granny and Gramps around the family hearth. In a single generation seniors morphed from being the warehouse for wisdom and information to being just nice older family members and reliable baby sitters. The IW provided most of the rest.

Americans thirty years old and younger grew up in the ubiquitous presence of the AI enhanced IW. With instant access to the IW most American youth used it to find answers to questions and solutions to problems. Their use of the resources of the IW served as an alternative to the use and development of their internal cognitive powers. The result has been a 1.5 to 5.0 point drop each decade in the IQ scores of the under thirty 30 year old Americans, AKA DNs (digital natives). Older Americans, (over forty) AKA (digital immigrants), may use the IW as much as their younger counterparts but their IQ scores are not affected because their internal cognition was fully developed pror to the arrival of the IW in 2001.

The loss of IQ points among the DNs is a natural result of the “use it or lose it” phenomenon. The use of computer generated answers that are better and more reliable than internally generated solutions is a rational decision similar to using mechanical devices to supplement our physical strength.

We seem to be at a crossroads.

We have developed technologies

that obviate the survival benefits of physical strength and mental acuity. Our machines have long been capable of out-lifting us and now they are capable of outthinking us as well. What’s left for us? Already we can see that the DN generation seems to becoming are less communicative and motivated.

We DIs gather together in our businesses, churches, social clubs and neighborhood bars and talk to each other. Just like our younger counterparts, many DIs also spend a lot of time learning, working and recreating on the IW. For millennia we humans have continuously invented devices that far exceed our individual physical abilities, a process that continues to this very day. But not until the early days of this century did we develop an AI (artificial

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John Van Zante’s Critter Corner

Stop Putting Doorbells in Commercials!

When I got Jake, he and I lived in a small house with no doorbell. We seldom had guests other than family or close friends. Jake greeted them with a wagging tail. People who didn’t know Jake thought twice before knocking on a door with an 80-pound dog staring out at them.

Fast forward a few years to a larger house with another large dog. The doorbell would ring.

Our other dog would bark. At first, Jake didn’t react. Eventually he began barking at the doorbell. I think it was a show of support for his new brother.

After we lost our large, rough and tumble boy dogs a few

years ago, we adopted Cashew.

She’s a sweet, gentle, mediumsized dog who is skittish in unfamiliar situations. It was an adjustment living with our shy, little girl. When the doorbell rang, she would look at us as if to ask, “Do we need to do anything about that?”

A couple of months ago we welcomed a new large dog into our family. His Dad was a longtime friend who asked us to adopt his dog when he died. We were already friends with the dog, and our dogs were friends with each other.

It was a fairly easy transition, and his owner’s wishes were well documented. Sure. There

were a few rough spots, but we all made adjustments as we began our new lives together.

Then, that commercial with the doorbell came on TV. To be honest, I can’t even tell you what they’re advertising, only that Barbara or I will leap for the remote to hit Mute or change the channel as soon as we realize that it’s the commercial with the doorbell.

At first, Cashew ignored it. But our new dog went bonkers. He would leap into the air, barking frantically before his paws even touched the floor.

Maybe Cashew figured, “If you can’t beat em, join em.” Maybe

it’s a show of support. Whatever the case, when a doorbell commercial comes on now, we have two dogs barking at a threat that doesn’t exist.

As far as I can tell, doorbells don’t add anything to commercials, and they don’t make me want to buy whatever they’re selling. They just upset our dogs.

Please. Stop putting doorbells in commercials.

The Paper • Page 12 • August 20, 2026

HOPE From Page 7

rience broken trust. Children experience instability. Parents struggle with guilt and fear. Siblings frequently feel overlooked or resentful. Modern treatment includes family counseling, recognizing healing relationships and improved long-term recovery.

in a day. I chose to go to meetings.

My counseling sessions are via telephone. I have an app to remind me to take my meds. I work. I’ve never felt better.” Leo is a shining example that dual diagnosed conditions can be treated side by side and long-term recovery is significantly Family members also learn the improved. distinction between supporting Recovery Is More Than Detoxifi- recovery and enabling addiction.

Support involves encouragement, cation accountability, and healthy boundPerhaps the most encouraging aries. Enabling removes natural development in addiction medicine consequences while unintentionis not a new medication or ground- ally allowing addiction to continue. breaking technology. It’s the grow- Helping families understand this ing realization that recovery is the difference is one of the most valurule rather than the exception for able services treatment programs people who receive appropriate provide. treatment and remain engaged in the recovery process. Hope for a Prevention Begins Long Before Addiction better future.

For decades, addiction was viewed as a hopeless condition.

Families were often told to expect repeated relapses and inevitable disappointment. A well-known TV star who received much publicity when he checked into Rehab, immediately relapsed upon hitting the streets, said, “Relapse is part of recovery.”

Not true! Researchers today deliver a more hopeful message: millions of people recover and go on to lead healthy, productive, and deeply fulfilling lives.

Recovery is no longer defined simply as abstinence from alcohol or drugs; it is an ongoing process of improved physical health, emotional well-being, stronger relationships, employment, purpose, and quality of life. For many individuals, giving up alcohol or drugs is the first in building a meaningful life.

The Importance of Peer Support Physicians may prescribe medications, therapists may provide counseling, yet many recovering individuals credit their long-term recovery to contact with those who have traveled the same road. Peer recovery specialists—individuals with lived experience in addiction and recovery—have become an increasingly valuable part of treatment teams. Their credibility comes not from textbooks but from experience. They understand cravings. They understand relapse; they understand rebuilding broken relationships is important, that longterm recovery is possible. While no single program works for everyone, the common thread is connection.

Addiction thrives in isolation, recovery flourishes in community.

places are an important component of national addiction strategies.

In researching this article, I visited a popular restaurant chain. The doors open at 10 o’clock. The Employee Assistance Program started at 8:30 and lasted until 9:30. It basically was a modified AA meeting that stressed the power of positive thinking. Ole Norman Vincent Peale would be pleased!

Harm Reduction: Meeting People Where They Are

One of the more widely discussed developments in public health is the concept of harm reduction. Rather than requiring immediate abstinence before helping, harm-reduction strategies seek to reduce the health risks associated with substance use while encouraging eventual treatment and recovAlthough treatment continues ery. to improve, experts agree that preExamples include: vention remains the most effective strategy. Research has identified • Distribution of naloxone to several protective factors that rereverse opioid overdoses. duce the likelihood of developing substance use disorders: • Syringe-service programs that reduce transmission of • Strong family relationships.

HIV and hepatitis.

• Positive school involvement.

• Drug-checking technologies that help identify fentanyl • Stable housing. contamination.

• Healthy friendships.

• Education about overdose prevention.

• Participation in sports, arts, faith communities, or volun• Outreach programs connectteer organizations. ing individuals directly with treatment services.

• Effective stress-management skills.

Supporters argue that keeping • Early identification of mental people alive is the essential first step toward recovery. Critics exhealth conditions. press concerns that some approachSchools increasingly teach stu- es may unintentionally normalize dents decision-making skills rather substance use. Despite ongoing dethan relying solely on fear-based bate, there is broad agreement that messages. Healthcare providers preventing overdose deaths and routinely screen patients for risky reducing infectious disease saves alcohol and drug use patterns dur- lives while creating opportunities ing regular medical visits. Employ- for future treatment, ers are expanding employee assisAddiction may alter lives, but it tance program – the Old Cut it Off at the Pass Routine of the fifties. does not erase human dignity, talMany communities also are work- ent, intelligence, compassion, or the ing to reduce stigma, recognizing capacity for change. Modern treatthat people seek treatment earlier ment therefore emphasizes continuing care, including: when judgment is reduced.

Workplace Recovery

Many employers have begun to view addiction through a new lens.

Rather than immediately terminating workers struggling with substance use disorders, many organizations now recognize addiction as a treatable medical condition.

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), that first appeared in the Families Heal As Do Individuals US Postal Service, provide groundAddiction is often described as breaking confidential counseling, a family disease because its effects mental health benefits, and returnextend far beyond the individual us- to-work agreements that benefits ing alcohol or drugs. Spouses expe- everyone. Recovery-friendly work-

•

Individual psychotherapy

•

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

•

Motivational Interviewing

•

Family counseling

•

Group therapy

•

Peer recovery coaching

•

Vocational rehabilitation

•

Housing assistance

•

Employment support

•

Long-term relapse prevention planning

Recovery is increasingly viewed as a lifelong process of personal growth rather than simply avoiding drugs or alcohol.

The Rise of Telehealth The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated another important innovation: telehealth addiction treatment. What began as an emergency response has become a permanent feature of healthcare. Today, many patients receive counseling, medication management, psychiatric consultations, and recovery coaching through secure video platforms.

For individuals living in rural communities—or those unable to travel because of work, disability, or family obligations—telehealth has dramatically expanded access to care.

Patients who once faced several hours of travel for a brief appointment may now consult with addiction specialists from home.

Telehealth has also helped reduce stigma. Some patients feel more comfortable discussing deeply personal issues from familiar surroundings than in clinical settings.

Although in-person treatment remains essential for many individuals, virtual care has become an effective complement rather than merely a temporary substitute.

Technology Joins the Recovery Team Digital innovation extends well beyond video appointments.

Today’s recovery tools include smartphone applications that help patients monitor cravings, record moods, schedule medication reminders, connect with peer-support communities, and contact counselors during moments of crisis.

Some wearable devices can track sleep quality, heart rate variability, and physiological stress— factors that may signal increased relapse risk before the individual consciously recognizes emotional distress. Researchers are also exploring how artificial intelligence may assist clinicians by identifying patterns associated with relapse, analyzing treatment progress, and personalizing interventions based on individual recovery histories.

While these technologies remain in development, they hold considerable promise for improving longterm outcomes without replacing the essential human relationship between patients and healthcare professionals.

HOPE See Page 13

The Paper • Page 13 • August 20, 2026

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760-745-5368 Office 760-822-5736 Earl Krogh • (earl@kroghwelding.com) HOPE From Page 12

drink again have gone away.”

A Surprising New Area of ReAlthough these findings are ensearch couraging, experts emphasize that more large-scale clinical trials are Among the most intriguing deneeded before GLP-1 medications velopments in addiction medicine become a standard treatment for involves a class of medications alcohol use disorder. If ongoing originally developed for type 2 diaresearch confirms their effectivebetes and obesity: Ozempic, Weness, they could represent one of govy and other GLP-1 medications. the most significant pharmacologiEarly clinical studies have suggestcal advances in addiction medicine ed that these medications may rein decades. duce alcohol cravings and decrease heavy drinking in some individu- The Power of Hope als. Researchers believe they may Perhaps the greatest breakinfluence reward pathways within the brain, potentially diminishing through current treatment programs offer cannot be measured in laborathe reinforcing effects of alcohol. tory studies or clinical trials. What A friend recently said, “My doc- is it? It’s hope, pure and simple. tor started me on Ozempic, a once For generations, addiction carried a week shot. The results are almost enormous shame. Many individumiraculous – I tossed my C-Pap als believed they were beyond help. machine when my sleep apnea Today’s narrative has changed this. disappeared. Yes, my teeth ache Formerly addicted physicians refrom time to time, but I’ve lost 42 turn to medical practice, as the pounds, have more energy and feel plot line on the TV show, The Pitt, great. And the thoughts that I can

SOLAR & ROOFING

MIKE

HONEST WORK • FAIR PRICES 207 E. Valley Pkwy.

Escondido, CA 92025

760-755-9511

showed.

Business owners rebuild successful companies. Parents regain custody of their children. Veterans rediscover purpose – at the VA recently, a fellow vet stopped me, his hand extended. “Isn’t this a great day?”

“It is. What’s been so great for you?”

“For the first time in 23 years I’m sober. I have a job. Bought my first new car ever. My wife wants me around. My son’s dropping off the grandkids this weekend.”

“You have it all,” I said.

“After what I’ve been through, I deserve it.”

JOHN

Recently, the Long Beach PressTelegram ran a story of a community college awarding Certificates of Appreciation to twenty-three students whose education was interrupted by substance use. Now clean and sober they’ve returned to college. Recovery stories like that demonstrate anew that people are more than the worst decision they’ve ever made. Addiction may alter one’s life, but it does not erase human dignity, talent, intelligence, compassion, or the capacity for change.

Treatment opens the door. Recovery walks through it.

The Paper • Page 14 • August 20, 2026

CHUCKLES From Page 3

HELD THIS COMING FRIDAY. **** I came home from the golf course today. The wife had left a note on the refrigerator: “IT’S NOT WORKING, I can’t take it anymore! Gone to stay with my mother.”

I opened the fridge, the light came on, and the beer was cold...

What the hell is she talking about? **** Every once in awhile I use really big words . . . or unusual words . . . or foreign words or phrases, just so the reader knows I’m really, really smart and know a lot of things.

Oh, I suppose the average reader will marvel at my capacious mind and ponderous thoughts . . . and the voluminous amount of words I churn out in a single day. Some might even call it prodigious.

Sometimes a morning will seem particularly auspicious and I begin my seeking the proper circumlocution.

Often, while out shopping I will dazzle the sales people attending me. For example, in a paint store the salesman might ask what color I have in mind for the living room interior. I will enable my ‘thinking’ look and then exclaim, “oh, I think something in a perpendicular shade would be nice.” His look of amazement at my response tells me he certainly is impressed by my being loquacious.

In spite of this extreme concentration on the location and use of big words I remain a perfect example of conviviality and congeniality. I strive, at all times, to never be deleterious with my complete mastery of words and their meanings. I also am quite humble but not to the point of being frugal or parsimonious.

I suppose some might say I am eccentric or even idiosyncratic but I maintain I remain a simple cowboy from the great state of Nebraska, without gasconading, just seeking a fortuitous opportunity now and then by which I hope to obtain a

modest remunerative sinecure to plod through life.

It is within this milieu that I perfect my daily struggle and, ultimately, prove myself to be a true sesquipedalian.

It is then, and only then, that I can return to a pleasant state of ennui.

More than that, je ne sais pas. ennui = a feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excitement. **** Someone recently asked me if I played a musical instrument. Why, yes I do. I play the linoleum! **** In my self isolation I have some extra time to explore a variety of issues and subjects.

Being primarily of Norwegian and Danish extraction, I looked into some nordic culture and found the following.

This information, no doubt, explains why the Vikings of old were so strong and brave. They had to be to eat some of their culinary specialities: From: Newsgroups: soc.culture.nordic Subject: Skyr and other icelandic food Magnus M Halldorsson, of Rutgers University, explains, or tries to, why Skyr (a Scandinavian food, generally associated with Iceland,) is such an incredibly wonderful food.

Skyr is an Icelandic cultured dairy product. It has the consistency of Greek yogurt, but a milder flavor.

Skyr can be classified as a fresh sour milk cheese (similar to curd cheese eaten in Germany and Russia) but is consumed like a yogurt.

It has been a part of Icelandic cuisine for centuries.

WARNING: Tender hearts need not read further. Parental guidance suggested.

SVITH: These are sheep-heads roasted over open fire. The hair is scraped off and so is the blackness from the fire. The head is then cut into left and right half for ease of access. Served whole, usually warm, with mashed potatos, or in a

jel, cold as a snack.

While unappealing to the unitiated, the flesh is quite tasty, and everything is eaten, except for the bone, the earlobe and possibly the eyestone.

“One’s first glimpse of those sheep’s eyes staring sadly up at one from the plate is, to put it mildly, unforgettable.”

Pamela Sanders and Roloff Beny, in “Iceland” HA’KARL: Shark meat is usually served after having it rot for a couple of weeks, giving a greater stench than I’ve been able to overcome.

Served in small bits, the connoisseurs require ‘Black Death’ (the local schnapps) to go with it.

“In any case, when the shark is deemed ready and the weather is perfectly windless, it is removed from the sand and put out to dry in the open air, where, evidently, even the birds won’t touch it. ... As for the flavour, many a metaphor has sallied forth and fallen short. But I should say that it most resembles a very old, slimy but tough, rotten camembert. Auden said it tasted ‘more like boot polish’. ...

The _cognoscenti_ point out that with shark, as with all things, there is good and there is bad. Good ha’karl should not smell of ammonia; bad ha’karl should not be eaten. In either case, the more ‘Black Death’ one drinks, the more palatable the shark becomes.”

[I wonder why? :-)] Sanders and Bemy, ibid.

At least we can’t accuse Icelandic cuisine of being commonplace!

HARTHFISKUR: Literally meaning ‘hard fish’, “hardfiskur” is any of {catfish, haddock, cod, halibut} hanged for fresh air drying. The commercial version is usually mashed into breakable pieces. Excellent to serve as party snack, with butter or plain.

This one sounds pretty interesting...

**** To bathe . . or not . .

I haven’t had a bath in 50 years!

Whoa! It’s not all that bad.

I was lying in bed last night thinking how nice it would be to submerge this magnificent Greek Godlike body into a nice, hot bath and just soak it all up.

Then it was I realized I had not had a bath in 50 years!

You see, our home does not have a bathtub. We have two showers, one in each of our bathrooms.

Showers are also relaxing but just the idea of a nice, hot bath seemed attractive to me at the moment.

Bubble bath not necessary. I don’t think bubbles get me any cleaner than regular hot water, soap and a good scrubbing. I believe bubble baths are mainly cosmetic.

This morning I had to content myself with a nice, hot shower and shampoo. No bath. 50 years and counting.

Epilogue: Correction. While living with Evelyn, back when we were still officially a couple, I decided to surprise her one day. I bought a dozen vases, 100W+ roses, and a bottle of champagne.

I arranged for her to be gone for an hour or two and for her to call me just before arriving back home.

When she called, in a matter of minutes I placed the vases about 10’ apart, leading from the garage to the bedroom and the master bath; into each vase I put about a dozen roses.

The trail of roses led to the master bath where a nice, hot, bubble bath awaited her and, close by, a chilled bottle of champagne.

She seemed pleased and, as I recall, placed a gentle kiss on my cheek.

We then shook hands, as all good friends do.

As I recall, I think I did take a bath that day.

So, one bath in 50 years. My record is (almost) intact.

LEGALS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9014000 Fictitious Business Name(s): GASPAR PRO CLEANING Located at: 4113 54TH PLACE APT 307 SAN DIEGO, CA 92105 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: GASPAR MIGUEL ESPIRIDION 4113 54th PLACE APT 307 SAN DIEGO, CA 92105 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 6/01/2026 /s/ GASPAR MIGUEL ESPIRIDION This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JUNE 24, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER 07/30, 08/06, 8/13, 8/20/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9015850 Fictitious Business Name(s): EVERSUN BRANDS, INC. Located at: 1784 LA COSTA MEADOWS DRIVE, STE 101, SAN MARCOS, CA 92078 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: EVERSUN BRANDS

1784 LA COSTA MEADOWS DRIVE, STE 101, SAN MARCOS, CA 92078 This business is conducted by A CORPORATION Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 10/07/2025 /s/ FARAJE KHARSA, CEO This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JULY 20, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER 07/30, 08/06, 8/13, 8/20/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9015962 Fictitious Business Name(s): SCD PLUMBING Located at: 415 E INDIAN ROCK ROAD #321 VISTA, CA 92084 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: RUFINO PEREZ REYES 415 E INDIAN ROCK ROAD #321 VISTA, CA 92084 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious name(s) listed above. /s/ RUFINO PEREZ REYES This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JULY 21, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER 07/30, 08/06, 8/13,

8/20/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9015926 Fictitious Business Name(s): HOWARD PROPERTY MANAGEMENT HOWARD WEST COAST REALTY Located at: 1751-223 W CITRACDO PKWY ESCONDIDO, CA 92029 County of San Diego Mailing Address: 970 W VALLEY PKWY #601, ESCONDIDO, CA 92025 This business is registered by the following: NANCY KATHRYN HOWARD 970 W VALLEY PKWY #601, ESCONDIDO, CA 92025 ROBERT FRANKLIN HOWARD 1751-223 W CITRACDO PKWY ESCONDIDO, CA 92029 This business is conducted by A MARRIED COUPLE Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 9/20/2013 /s/ NANCY KATHRYN HOWARD This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JULY 21, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER 07/30, 08/06, 8/13, 8/20/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

FBN# 2026-9015834 Fictitious Business Name(s): EASY RIDING ARENAS Located at: 1128 N BROADWAY #H, ESCONDIDO, CA 92026 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: MIGUEL G. GARCIA 1128 N BROADWAY #H, ESCONDIDO, CA 92026 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 7/20/2026 /s/ MIGUEL G. GARCIA This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JULY 20, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER 07/30, 08/06, 8/13, 8/20/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9015941 Fictitious Business Name(s): SUSAN LANCI DESIGNS CANARI CYCLE WEAR SHEBEEST Located at: 1392 POINSETTIA AVE STE B, VISTA, CA 92081-8507 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: LEEMARC INDUSTRIES LLC 1392 POINSETTIA AVE STE B, VISTA, CA

92081-8507 This business is conducted by A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 7/15/2026 /s/ SCOT ROBINSON, CEO This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JULY 21, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER 07/30, 08/06, 8/13, 8/20/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9016767 Fictitious Business Name(s): CHARA THERAPEUTIC SERVICES Located at: 1132 SAN MARINO DR., STE 204, SAN MARCOS, CA 92078 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: CHARA MATSUO WARD 1132 SAN MARINO DR., STE 204, SAN MARCOS, CA 92078 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 08/01/2016 /s/ CHARA MATSUO WARD This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JULY 31, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER, 08/06, 8/13, 08/20, 08/27/2026

-FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9012199 Fictitious Business Name(s): THE HEALING SHADE Located at: 2213 S. EL CAMINO REAL, SUITE 107, OCEANSIDE, CA 92054 County of San Diego Mailing: 1108 PHEASANT CT, SAN MARCOS, CA 92078 This business is registered by the following: TAMARA REYZIN 1108 PHEASANT CT, SAN MARCOS, CA 92078 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 06/01/2026 /s/ TAMARA REYZIN This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JUNE 01, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER, 08/06 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9015962 Fictitious Business Name(s): SCD PLUMBING Located at: 415 E INDIAN ROCK ROAD #321, VISTA, CA 92084 County of San Diego

The Paper • Page 15 • August 20, 2026

Advertise Your Legal in The Paper 760 546-7600

LEGALS

This business is registered by the following: RUFINO PEREZ REYES 415 E INDIAN ROCK ROAD #321, VISTA, CA 92084 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious name(s) listed above. /s/ RUFINO PEREZ REYES This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JULY 21, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER, 08/06, 8/13, 08/20, 08/27/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9015817 Fictitious Business Name(s): MARKOLE Located at: 2517 VALMONTE GLN, ESCONDIDO, CA 92029 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: AI BRAND DNA LLC 2517 VALMONTE GLN, ESCONDIDO, CA 92029 This business is conducted by A LIMITED LIABILTY COMPANY Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 08/01/2025. /s/ ROGER GREGORY, MANAGING PARTNER This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JULY 20, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER, 08/06, 8/13, 08/20, 08/27/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9016419 Fictitious Business Name(s): JUST RELENT Located at: 3153 VISTA RICA, CARLSBAD, CA 92009 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: JAKE PATRICK CURRY 3153 VISTA RICA, CARLSBAD, CA 92009 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 07/28/2026. /s/ JAKE PATRICK CURRY This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JULY 28, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER, 08/06, 8/13, 08/20, 08/27/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9013952 Fictitious Business Name(s): HAMDI WHOLESALERS Located at: 1338 N MELROSE AVE STE M, VISTA, CA 92083 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: SHADI HAMDI 1338 N MELROSE AVE STE M, VISTA, CA 92083 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 06/23/2026. /s/ SHADI HAMDI This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JUNE 23, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER, 08/06, 8/13, 08/20, 08/27/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9014941 Fictitious Business Name(s): RAIN THE SKIN METHOD Located at: 910 W SAN MARCOS BLVD, SUITE 210, SAN MARCOS, CA 92078 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: CORI ANNE DASINGER 910 W SAN MARCOS BLVD, SUITE 210, SAN MARCOS, CA 92078 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious name(s) listed above. /s/ CORI ANNE DASINGER This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JULY 07, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER, 08/06, 8/13, 08/20, 08/27/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9015850 Fictitious Business Name(s): EVERSUN BRANDS, INC. Located at: 1784 LA COSTA MEADOWS DRIVE, SUITE 101, SAN MARCOS, CA 92078 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: EVERSUN BRANDS 1784 LA COSTA MEADOWS DRIVE, SUITE 101, SAN MARCOS, CA 92078 This business is conducted by A CORPORATION Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 10/07/2025 /s/ FARAJE KHARSA, CEO This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JULY 20, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER, 08/06, 8/13, 08/20, 08/27/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9016340 Fictitious Business Name(s): COVENANT BUILDERS Located at: 209 NORTH DITMAR STREET, OCEANSIDE, CA 92054

County of San Diego Mailing: 979 WOODLAND PKWY, STE 101 #2026, SAN MARCOS, CA 92069 This business is registered by the following: MMDAG CONSULTING LLC 979 WOODLAND PKWY, STE 101 #2026, SAN MARCOS, CA 92069 This business is conducted by A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious name(s) listed above. /s/ MIRJANA DJOKICH, MEMBER This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JULY 27, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER, 08/06, 8/13, 08/20, 08/27/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9016847 Fictitious Business Name(s): TRADE NARRATIVE VELLUM&VICE 21ST CENTURY ELECTRICS Located at: 270 N EL CAMINO REAL STE F201, ENCINITAS, CA 92024 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: PAUL HARRY BUSSELL 7040 AVENIDA ENCINAS #104, CARLSBAD, CA 92011 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 08/03/2026 /s/ PAUL HARRY BUSSELL This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on AUG 03, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER, 08/06, 8/13, 08/20, 08/27/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9016541 Fictitious Business Name(s): 9TH MAN SOCIAL CLUB ONE NATION Located at: 235 VISTA VILLAGE DR #1105, VISTA, CA 92083 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: ROBERT ERWIN HOLLEY 235 VISTA VILLAGE DR #1105, VISTA, CA 92083 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious name(s) listed above. /s/ ROBERT ERWIN HOLLEY This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JULY 29, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER, 08/06, 8/13, 08/20, 08/27/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9015864 Fictitious Business Name(s): QUERIDA SKIN STUDIO Located at: 5617 PASEO DEL NORTE, #200 SUITE #6, CARLSBAD, CA 92008 County of San Diego Mailing: 1051 W. EL NORTE PARKWAY, APT 44, ESCONDIDO, CA 92026 This business is registered by the following: ANNETTE COVARRUBIAS 1051 W. EL NORTE PARKWAY, APT 44, ESCONDIDO, CA 92026 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious name(s) listed above. /s/ ANNETTE COVARRUBIAS This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JULY 20, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER, 08/06, 8/13, 08/20, 08/27/2026 -NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: Deborah Ann Lyon a/k/a Deb Lyon CASE NUMBER: 26PE001964C To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both of Deborah Ann Lyon a/k/a Deb Lyon.

A Petition for Probate has been filed by Denise Haunert-Marshall in the Superior Court of California, County of San Diego. The Petition for Probate requests that Denise Haunert-Marshall be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

The petition requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: Date: 08/25/2026, Time: 9:30AM Dept. 503 Address of Court: SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO 1100 UNION ST. SAN DIEGO, CA 92101 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.

Petitioner: Denise Haunert-Marshall 416 38th Street, Newport Beach, CA 92663 858-735-8580 PUBLISHED IN THE PAPER 08/06, 8/13, 08/20/2026 -SUMMONS Notice to Defendant: (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): SHANE GARST, AN INDIVIDUAL; THE SYDEKICKS REAL ESTATE LLC, A CALIFORNIA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY; AND DOES 1 THROUGH 25 INCLUSIVE You are being sued by Plaintiff: (LO ESTÁ DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): WHITE AND BRIGHT, LLP NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days.

Read the information below.

You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case.

There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www. courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court.

There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www.lawhelpcalifornia. org), the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case.

Tiene 30 D{AS DE CALENDAR/0 despues de que le entreguen esta citaci6n y papeles legates para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una 1/ amada telef6nica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estaren formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta.Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y mas informaci6n en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de /eyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede mas cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentaci6n, pida al secretario de la corte que le de un formulario de exenci6n de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podra quitar su sue/do, dinero y bienes sin mas advertencia.

Hay otros requisitos legates. Es recomendable que 1/ame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede 1/ amar a un servicio de remisiOn a abogados.

Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legates gratuitos de un programa de servicios legates sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de / ucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services,(www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte.ca.gov) o poniendose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AV/SO: Por fey, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobrecualquier recuperaci6n de $10,000 6 mas de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesi6n de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la carte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso.

Case Number (Número del Caso): 25CU067905N The name and address of the court is: (El nombre y dirección de la corte es): SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA 325 SOUTH MELROSE DRIVE VISTA, CA 92081 The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is: (El nombre, la dirección y el número de teléfono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es): MICHAEL A. FRIEDRICHS 177980 WHITE AND BRIGHT, LLP 970 CANTERBURY PLACE, ESCONDIDO, CA 92025 760-747-3200 DATE: (Fecha) 12/22/25 Clerk, by N. ARELLANO, Deputy (Secretario) (Adjunto) (SEAL) Published in THE PAPER, 08/06, 8/13, 08/20, 08/27/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9016339 Fictitious Business Name(s): NEXT LEVEL DATING Located at: 770 SYCAMORE AVE STE 122 #1011, VISTA, CA 92083 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: MARK ALLEN KESTER MR 770 SYCAMORE AVE STE 122 #1011,

VISTA, CA 92083 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious name(s) listed above. /s/ MARK ALLEN KESTER MR This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on JULY 27, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER 8/13, 8/20, 8/27, 9/3/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9017023 Fictitious Business Name(s): MBQ BUILDERS Located at: 3535 LINDA VISTA DR. #266, SAN MARCOS, CA 92078 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: MICHAEL BUYS 3535 LINDA VISTA DR. #266, SAN MARCOS, CA 92078 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 2/15/2013 /s/ MICHAEL BUYS This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on AUG 05, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER 8/13, 8/20, 8/27, 9/3/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9017192 Fictitious Business Name(s): WOOF GANG BAKERY AND GROOMING ENCINITAS Located at: 258 N EL CAMINO REAL, STE B2, ENCINITAS, CA 92024 County of San Diego Mailing: 3885 ANTIEM STREET, SAN DIEGO, CA 92111 This business is registered by the following: HARDY AND HONU LLC 3885 ANTIEM STREET, SAN DIEGO, CA 92111, CALIFORNIA LLC This business is conducted by A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious name(s) listed above. /s/ KARLY SIDMAN This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on AUG 07, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER 8/13, 8/20, 8/27, 9/3/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9017415 Fictitious Business Name(s): NORTH COAST SIGNS Located at: 2560 JASON CT, OCEANSIDE, CA 92056 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: KENNEY SIGNS 2560 JASON CT, OCEANSIDE, CA 92056 This business is conducted by A CORPORATION Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 8/10/26 /s/ NICHOLE HAMELBACK This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on AUG 11, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER 8/20, 8/27, 9/3, 9/10/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9017521

Fictitious Business Name(s): WHEELY KING INDUSTRIES Located at: 387 CALLE MARIPOSA, OCEANSIDE, CA 92057 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: THERESA ANN HERNANDEZ 387 CALLE MARIPOSA, OCEANSIDE, CA 92057 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 8/12/26 /s/ THERESA ANN HERNANDEZ This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on AUG 12, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER 8/20, 8/27, 9/3, 9/10/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9017446 Fictitious Business Name(s): ESSENTIAL TOUCH MASSAGE Located at: 1506 OAK DRIVE, SPACE 57, VISTA, CA 92084 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: GINA VICTORIA CONLEY 1506 OAK DRIVE, SPACE 57, VISTA, CA 92084 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious name(s) listed above. /s/ GINA V. CONLEY This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on AUG 11, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER 8/20, 8/27, 9/3, 9/10/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9017810 Fictitious Business Name(s): VILLA PACIFIC CONSTRUCTION Located at: 28 DORAN CT, CHULA VISTA, CA 91910 County of San Diego This business is registered by the following: DANIEL VILLASENOR 28 DORAN CT, CHULA VISTA, CA 91910 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 8/14/2026 /s/ DANIEL VILLASENOR This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on AUG 14, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER 8/20, 8/27, 9/3, 9/10/2026 -FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FBN# 2026-9017589 Fictitious Business Name(s): LA PROVIDENCIA BAKERY Located at: 311 N. MAIN AVE #B, FALLBROOK, CA 92028 County of San Diego MAILING: 1048 FUNQUEST DR, FALLBROOK, CA 92028 This business is registered by the following: ALMA ROSA ORTIZ SANTILLAN 1048 FUNQUEST DR, FALLBROOK, CA 92028 This business is conducted by AN INDIVIDUAL Registrant first began to transact business under the name(s) above as of: 8/12/2026 /s/ ALMA ROSA ORTIZ SANTILLAN This statement was filed with JORDAN Z. MARKS, San Diego County Clerk on AUG 12, 2026.

Published in THE PAPER 8/20, 8/27, 9/3, 9/10/2026

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The Paper • Page 16 • August 20, 2026