January 15, 2026 by The Paper

SUICIDES HIGHEST

AMONG SENIORS & SUICIDAL THOUGHTS RISING AMONG PASTORS!

By Friedrich Gomez

PREFACE. In the past we have dealt with suicides among the U.S. Military as well as young Americans. This shocking cover story suggestion has been strongly forwarded to me by several pastors (including my own), as well as key members of the U. S. Administration on Aging (AOA), all of whom have taken to heart my past invitations that THE PAPER is an open forum for our readership as well as collective

agencies or groups to make suggestions on critical issues in the hope of promoting wider public awareness. I wish to thank the aforementioned especially in light of our recent CBS TV 8 News Special which celebrated THE PAPER for its positive impact on the public at large.

In this new year of 2026 we are faced with a most shocking reality not only in San Diego County, but across the entire United States: suicide levels among our senior citizen

population – as well as among our precious pastors and ministers who battle suicidal thoughts at an unprecedented level, and rising!

The fact that you may be shocked, and in disbelief, and reading this for the first time shows just how insidious and unknown this rising human fatality is growing and crippling key areas of our U.S. population.

Unfortunately, the print and visual media has, largely, been negligent

in focusing and promoting wider public awareness which is necessary for federal funding to be appropriated in areas of suicidal research and causation to stem this non-stop, increasing, phenomenon.

In this exclusive and shocking report to THE PAPER we hope to bring this “silent killer” out into the open for better understanding, education, and prevention – all of which has largely gone unheeded in the mainstream media.

Suicide from page 1

MYTH BUSTER. It has long been thought that the highest suicide levels were among the young and the U.S. military (of which we have already previously reported). And even though suicide among our youth and military is, nonetheless, a serious matter – suicide is rising and accelerating at a startling level among our precious senior citizen population across America.

And serious suicidal thoughts have even risen among senior pastors and ministers, a fact that is greatly unknown – even to some members of the clergy itself!

SENIOR CITIZENS & MEMBERS OF THE CLERGY ARE LITERALLY IN A BATTLE FOR THEIR LIVES!

This exclusive report will first address rising suicides among U.S. senior citizens (seniors now have the highest suicide rate in the nation), and then we will segue into the shocking rise of suicidal thoughts among members of the clergy (pastors and ministers) across the U.S.

Last year, in 2025, the suicide rate

Give Us This Day Our Daily Chuckle

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

Did I read that sign right?

TOILET OUT OF ORDER. PLEASE USE FLOOR BELOW.

In a Laundromat: AUTOMATIC WASHING MACHINES: PLEASE REMOVE ALL YOUR CLOTHES WHEN THE LIGHT GOES OUT

In a London department store: BARGAIN BASEMENT UPSTAIRS

In an office: WOULD THE PERSON WHO TOOK THE STEP LADDER

among U. S. seniors reached levels not seen since 1941.

That is a most astonishing statistic.

And it is getting worse in record numbers.

In 2026 medical research scientists are now committed to find the cause of what they term “Suicide Ideation” among seniors, and why this dramatic senior citizen “suicide death spike” across the United States hasn’t been seen in 85 years (since the Second World War to now).

First, let’s discuss our (secular) senior citizen population.

WHAT IS IT ABOUT OUR PRESENT WORLD THAT IS MAKING OUR SENIORS IN RECORD NUMBERS PREFER TO CHOOSE DEATH OVER LIFE?

What is it about our current world that is making rational everyday senior Americans, in record numbers, preferring to choose death over life?

This timely cover story takes a “deep dive” into how crucial factors come into play.

ALTHOUGH SUICIDES ARE

NOTHING NEW – THIS IS A STRANGE NEW PHENOMENON UNLIKE ANYTHING WE’VE WITNESSED IN THIS GENERATION.

And although suicide is nothing new in America -- this spike boggles the human imagination in its sheer scope and magnitude, rendering even hardened research scientists thunderstruck, speechless, and scrambling to make sense of it all.

“The suicide rate has increased by a staggering 30.3% over the past decades.” (Source: Center for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC https://www.cdc. gov>suicide>facts>database and the U.S. Administration on Aging (AOA.)

Before we proceed, it is paramount for the reader to recognise that suicide is a complex phenomenon.

There are complex social issues and other contributing factors which may lead a person to commit suicide. Different people may have different reasons for committing suicide.

OFFICIALLY, SENIORS ARE NOW THE HIGHEST SUICIDE DEMOGRAPHIC IN ALL

AMERICA!

While teenagers are the age group most associated with suicide risk, the terrible truth is that another group is killing themselves at even higher rates: lonely and familyneglected seniors whose lives are compounded by medical complications, illness, depression, and other factors which we shall explore.

It comes as a shock for many to learn that seniors now commit suicide (twice) as often as teens.

Suicide is higher in older adults for a number of reasons. These range from depression, to grief over the passing of loved ones, to chronic illness which comes with age and complications.

FOCUS ON OUR OWN SAN DIEGO COUNTY.

In San Diego County, senior citizens, particularly men aged 85 and older, consistently have the highest suicide rates in all of San Diego’s entire metropolitan region, as is true across the entire United States.

Suicide continued on page 3

YESTERDAY PLEASE BRING IT BACK OR FURTHER STEPS WILL BE TAKEN

In an office: AFTER TEA BREAK STAFF SHOULD EMPTY THE TEAPOT AND STAND UPSIDE DOWN ON THE DRAINING BOARD

Outside a secondhand shop: WE EXCHANGE ANYTHINGBICYCLES, WASHING MACHINES, ETC. WHY NOT BRING YOUR WIFE ALONG AND GET A WONDERFUL BARGAIN?

Notice in health food shop window: CLOSED DUE TO ILLNESS

Spotted in a safari park:(I sure hope so) ELEPHANTS PLEASE STAY IN YOUR CAR

Seen during a conference: FOR ANYONE WHO HAS CHILDREN AND DOESN’T KNOW IT, THERE IS A DAY CARE ON THE 1ST FLOOR

Notice in a farmer’s field: THE FARMER ALLOWS WALKERS TO CROSS THE FIELD FOR FREE, BUT THE BULL CHARGES.

Message on a leaflet: IF YOU CANNOT READ, THIS LEAFLET WILL TELL YOU HOW TO GET LESSONS

On a repair shop door: WE CAN REPAIR ANYTHING. (PLEASE KNOCK HARD ON THE DOOR - THE BELL DOESN’T WORK)

Proofreading is a dying art, wouldn’t you say?

Man Kills Self Before Shooting Wife and Daughter

This one I caught in the SGV Tribune the other day and called the Editorial Room and asked who wrote this. It took two or three readings before the editor realized that what he was reading was impossible!

They put in a correction the next day.

***

Something Went Wrong in Jet Crash, Expert Says. Really? Ya think?

Police Begin Campaign to Run Down Jaywalkers. Now that’s taking things a bit far!

Panda Mating Fails; Veterinarian Takes Over. What a guy!

continued on page 5

Letters to the Editor

Lyle we recently saw your laddie Friedrich Gomez perform a magic show at an Oceanside civic event and we never knew he was a wizard! And a thumpin’ good one at that! The audience went bonkers, as did we! Lyle, you must be very proud of your lad. In British slang he’s a “dab hand” at writing and a conjuror of the first order. Also, Lyle we really enjoy reading on your military exploits when you served as a war correspondent! Your readers should be aware that being a war correspondent was not a cushy job. Around 63 journalists were killed during the Vietnam War (1955-1975), with some figures much higher. Lyle, the topper is that you served the U.S. twice. As an enlisted soldier and also a war correspondent covering the Vietnam conflict. Our country thanks you, Lyle, for your service!

Chuckles

Patrick Flannigan & His Big Irish family, North San Diego County.

Suicide from page 2

KEY FINDINGS ON SUICIDE RATES IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY & THE NATION.

Highest Rate Among Older Adults: Data from 2019-2025 indicates that suicide death rates were highest among residents aged 65 or older. In 2021, adults 65 years and above had the highest suicide rate overall at 16.4 per 100,000 people.

Today, on average in the United States, 28 senior citizens (age 65 and older) die by suicide (every single day).

In San Diego County, in 2023, there were 363 total suicide deaths of seniors aged 65 and older, which averages out to about one suicide every single day.

This number is based on recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Council on Aging (NCOA), and the County of San Diego.

Significant Disparity in Older Men: The rate among men aged 85 and older is particularly high, reaching as much as 67 per 100,000 in previous reports, which is several times the overall county rate. This age group has the highest rate across the lifespan for males.

Trends: While most other age groups saw a decline in suicide rates between 2019 and 2025, the rate for individuals aged 65 and older experienced an increase.

Method and Risk Factors: Older adults are more likely to use lethal means, such as firearms, and are less likely to survive an attempt due to physical frailty. Risk factors for seniors often include social isolation, loss of a spouse, physical health conditions, and untreated depression, which can be overlooked by physicians. (Source: Ibid)

WHAT OTHER REASONS ARE SUICIDE ATTEMPTS BY OLDER ADULTS MUCH MORE LIKELY TO SUCCEED?

Aside from the aforementioned: i.e., that older adults are less likely to survive a suicide attempt due to physical frailty, other determining factors come into play in San Diego County as well as across the nation.

Suicide attempts by older adults are much more likely to result in death than among younger persons for the following additional reasons: Older adults plan more carefully and use more deadly methods. Older adults are also less likely to be discovered and rescued.

In addition to all of the above, seniors are least likely to ask for help, intervention, or to share their worries, woes, and depression with loved ones for fear of being a family burden.

Our senior citizen population is often marginalised. Often neglected and left alone to live, sometimes in a retirement dwelling or left to live alone in their own home – the home in which they reared their beloved children.

Other factors come into play which younger generations may not understand, such as the following.

DEBT & SUICIDE AMONG SENIORS: HOW FINANCIAL STRESS RELATES TO SUICIDE.

What may drive a senior to suicide may not be the same reason for a much younger person.

We’re talking about seniors fearing poverty and running out of money. A younger person has the resilience and years to rebuild a financial nest egg while seniors are in their twilight years and on borrowed time.

When people become hopeless about their mounting financial situation, and not believing that a better future is even possible, they can become particularly vulnerable to thoughts of suicide, and that suicide risk can increase over time.

CORRELATION OF SENIOR DEBTS TO SELF-INDUCED MORTALITY.

Research has shown that elderly people who experience stress and worry over financial issues and debt are 20 times more likely to attempt suicide than those who do not have similar debts.

The prospects of an elderly senior man or woman becoming homeless is terrifying and antithetical to their “work ethic” and being the responsible patriarch and matriarch of any family.

Seniors who are terrified over losing their monthly Social Security cheques – their sole financial income on which to live and budget on – can place them under a huge emotional and mental roller coaster of uncertainty which can take an indelible emotional and psychological toll.

Today, many U.S. senior citizens are too ashamed to ask their children or grandchildren for financial support. That is one reason why they’re marginalised, in a rest home, or their own home – bought and paid for – in which they proud-

Oodles!

Looking for things to do? Places to go? Check out Oodles every week for listing of civic and service club meetings, and more!

Have an event you need publicized?

Email it to: Lisa.ThePaper@gmail.com

The Paper goes to print on Tuesday morning.

You ar E mor E L ik ELY T o g ET P ub L is HE d if Y ou:

• Submit your press release by the previous Friday.

• Keep It Simple: who, what, where, when, why.

• Send us something we can copy/paste. Please no brochures or flyers. Send a press release.

• Send photos as attachments, not embedded in the document.

Hidden Valley Community Concert association Presents The Cowboy Jack Band January 18th • 2pm

The Cowboy Jack Band is coming to Escondido Sunday, January 18, 2026. They (five members) will perform at 2 pm the classic music of Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, George Strait, Hank Williams, Sr., Hank Snow, Merle Haggard and others... Cowboy Jack is a local favorite and puts on a great show. Tickets and doors open at 1:30 pm, at the First Congregational Church, 1800 North Broadway Blvd. just past Escondido High School. Children 3-12 and students thru college are free. Seniors, Veterans, and Military $20.00, Adults $30.00. HVCCA is celebrating our 80th anniversary. Visit http://www.hiddenvalleyCCAescondido.info.

Hidden Valley Vista City Council of beta sigma Phi international Queen’s Court Luncheon February 7th • 11:30am

The Hidden Valley Vista City Council of Beta Sigma Phi International will hold its’ Queens Court Luncheon, “The Queens’ Garden of Kindness” February 7, 2026, beginning at 11:30 am at Shadowridge Golf Club, 1980 Gateway Drive, Vista, CA. 92081.

Cost is $35.00 per person. Menu choice are Cobb Salad, Turkey Club Sandwich or Avocado Toast.

RSVP by calling Susie at 760-8893552 by January 22, 2026.

Chapter Queens will be honored.

and make many new friends, call Sue at 858-484-8752.

***

The good LifE at miraCosta College

Meetings will be held in person at the MiraCosta College, Oceanside Campus, at 1:00 pm in the Board Room of the Administration Building (Building 1000) and by the Internet Application ZOOM.

Jan 16 1:00 From Feather Boas to Fighting Battles! Kata Pierce-Morgan, Social Justice Activist

How a good Catholic girl from Vista took a stand, fought back, and spoke out from the fringes of society. Her story, “Stripper Energy”, won an EMMY for Beth Accomando and KPBS.

Jan 16 2:30 Have Hammer, Will Blacksmith Richard Willis, CertiOodles continued on page 14 Suicide continued on page 4

Beta Sigma Phi is a social, cultural and philanthropic International Sorority, headquartered in Kansa City, Missouri, with chapters throughout the world. If you are interested in belonging to a special organization

Suicide from page 3

ly reared their family.

Adding to this mix of anxiety and fear of being poverty-struck and reflecting on being relegated to homeless status, or not having enough food to eat on a limited income, or mounting pressure of ever-increasing medical expenses and doctor visits can be overwhelming in their aged years when their mind is not as sharp and their bodies are far more frail – and if all that were not enough, the relentless and intimidating letters and phone calls they receive from creditors – all may seem too much for one feeble senior or senior couple in their autumn years.

Such intimating thoughts are thrice as bad for the aged who are a most vulnerable segment of our society.

So they often suffer in silence.

And if they’ve outlived their spouse, they suffer in solitude which further causes grief and the will to carry on.

Any sudden financial problem can rapidly increase a senior’s risk of suicide, or act as a “trigger” for a suicide attempt, particularly when someone is already struggling

Man

About Town

These guys are the reason we can go to the church or synagogue of our choice, and go to bed at night without worrying about being awakened by bombs or some other type of attack.

with other long term health issues. Some elderly are especially vulnerable to feelings of inadequacy, intimidation by creditors, loss of self-esteem and self-worth – all of which can greatly increase the risk of premeditated senior suicides.

As one elderly man sadly stated: “I was a complete failure to my children, I believed, because my benefits had been delayed and sanctioned due to me (not turning) up to my appointments . . . I attempted suicide numerous times.”

DATELINE: FERNDALE, WA. A 77-year-olde Washington man and his 76-year-olde wife were found dead in a “likely murder-suicide,” as notes were left on the scene about concerns over their high medical bills, according to police.

“It is very tragic that one of our senior citizens would find himself in such desperate circumstances where he felt murder and suicide were the only option. Help is always available with a call to 911,” so stated Whatcom County Sheriff Bill Elfo at the scene.

On that fateful Wednesday morning, the elderly man had called 911 and told the dispatcher, “I’m going to shoot myself,” prompting deputies to respond to the home near Ferndale, Washington, the sheriff’s office said in a Facebook post.

haired, tight-muscled kid who, under normal circumstances is considered by society as half man, half boy. Not yet dry behind the ears, not old enough to buy a beer, but old enough to die for his country. He never really cared much for work and he would rather wax his own car than wash his father’s, but he has never collected unemployment either.

He is a recent High School graduate; he was probably an average student, pursued some form of sport activities, drives a ten-yearold jalopy, and has a steady girlfriend that broke up with him either when he left, or swears to be waiting when he returns from half a world away. He listens to rock and roll or hip-hop or rap or jazz or swing and a 155mm howitzer.

The man indicated that he had prepared a note for the sheriff with information and instructions, according to the sheriff’s office. The dispatcher then unsuccessfully attempted to keep the caller on the line.

The man disconnected the call after saying, “We will be in the front bedroom,” according to authorities.

Deputies arrived and set up a perimeter around the house.

For about an hour, a crisis negotiator attempted to contact the occupants of the home by phone and a megaphone. An hour later, deputies deployed a robot-mounted camera.

The man was found deceased from an apparent gunshot wound, authorities said. He was lying next to his wife, who also died from an apparent gunshot wound.

Sheriff’s office detectives and crime scene investigators are looking into the case as a likely murder-suicide.

“Several notes were left citing severe ongoing medical problems with the wife and expressing concerns that the couple did not have

sufficient resources to pay for medical care,” the sheriff’s office reported.

Two dogs that were found within the residence were taken into custody and turned over to the humane society for care. Numerous firearms were also impounded for safekeeping.

The identities of the couple have not yet been released, as officials are notifying next of kin.

“SUICIDAL THOUGHTS” HAVE RISEN AMONG CHURCH LEADERS, PASTORS & MINISTERS IN AMERICA.

Today, pastors and ministers across the U.S. are facing their own inner demons: A rising level of suicidal thoughts, something which most Americans may find difficult to fathom.

Within the network of Christian churches is a most worthy nonprofit organisation called Barna Group, which has conducted more than two million interviews over the course of thousands of studies, and has become the “go-to” source and spiritual support for countless

Suicide continued on page 7

If you read this, you WILL forward it on.

You just won’t be able to stop yourself.

The average age of the military man is 19 years. He is a short

He is 10 or 15 pounds lighter now than when he was at home because he is working or fighting from before dawn to well after dusk. He has trouble spelling, thus letter writing is a pain for him, but he can field strip a rifle in 30 seconds and reassemble it in less time in the dark. He can recite to you the nomenclature of a machine gun or grenade launcher and use either one effectively if he must.

He digs foxholes and latrines and can apply first aid like a professional.

He can march until he is told to stop, or stop until he is told to march.

He obeys orders instantly and without hesitation, but he is not without spirit or individual dignity. He is self-sufficient.

He has two sets of fatigues: he washes one and wears the other. He keeps his canteens full and his feet dry.

He sometimes forgets to brush his teeth, but never to clean his rifle. He can cook his own meals, mend his own clothes, and fix his own hurts.

If you are thirsty, he will share his water with you; if you are hungry, his food. He will even split his ammunition with you in the midst of battle when you run low.

He has learned to use his hands like weapons and weapons as if they were his hands.

He can save your life - or take it, because that is his job.

He will often do twice the work of a civilian, draw half the pay, and still find ironic humor in it all.

He has seen more suffering and death than he should have in his short lifetime.

He has wept in public and in private, for friends who have fallen in combat and is unashamed.

He feels every note of the National Anthem vibrate through his body while at rigid attention, while tempering the burning desire to’ squareaway’ those around him who have not bothered to stand, remove their hat, or even stop talking. In an odd twist, day in and day out, far from home, he defends their right to be disrespectful.

Just as did his Father, Grandfather, and Great-grandfather, he is paying the price for our freedom.

Beardless or not, he is not a boy. He is the American Fighting Man that has kept this country free for over 200 years.

He has asked nothing in return, except Our friendship and understanding.

Remember him, always, for he has earned our respect and admiration with his blood.

And now we even have women over there in danger, doing their part in this tradition of going to War when our nation calls us to do so.

Man About Town

1/2 Boy 1/2 Man

Chuckles from page 2

Miners Refuse to Work after Death. No-good-for-nothing’ lazy so-andso’s!

Juvenile Court to Try Shooting Defendant. See if that works any better than a fair trial!

War Dims Hope for Peace. I can see where it might have that effect!

If Strike Isn’t Settled Quickly, It May Last Awhile. Ya think?!

Cold Wave Linked to Temperatures. Who would have thought!

Enfield ( London ) Couple Slain; Police Suspect Homicide. They may be on to something!

Red Tape Holds Up New Bridges. You mean there’s something stronger than duct tape?

Man Struck By Lightning: Faces Battery Charge. He probably IS the battery charge!

New Study of Obesity Looks for Larger Test Group. Weren’t they fat enough?!

Astronaut Takes Blame for Gas in Spacecraft. That’s what he gets for eating those beans!

Kids Make Nutritious Snacks. Do they taste like chicken?

Local High School Dropouts Cut in Half. Chainsaw Massacre all over again!

Hospitals are Sued by 7 Foot Doctors. Boy, are they tall!

And the winner is.... Typhoon Rips Through Cemetery; Hundreds Dead. Did I read that right?

***

Am I getting older or has the supermarket started playing ‘great music?’

Morris Schwartz is on his deathbed, knows the end is near, is with his nurse, his wife, his daughter and 2

sons. “So”, he says to them:

“Bernie, I want you to take the Beverly Hills houses.”

“Sybil, take the apartments over in Los Angeles Plaza.”

“Hymie, I want you to take the offices over in City Center.”

“Sarah, my dear wife, please take all the residential buildings downtown.”

The nurse is just blown away by all this, and as Morris slips away, she says , “Mrs. Schwartz, your husband must have been such a hard working man to have accumulated all this property”.

Sarah replies, “Property? The schmuck has a paper route!” ***

Tombstones in Old Cemeteries

A truly Happy Person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour. And, one who can enjoy browsing

old cemeteries.

Harry Edsel Smith of Albany, New York : Born 1903--Died 1942. Looked up the elevator shaft to see if the car was on the way down. It was.

In a Thurmont, Maryland, cemetery: Here lies an Atheist, all dressed up and no place to go.

On the grave of Ezekial Aikle in East Dalhousie Cemetery, Nova Scotia: Here lies Ezekial Aikle, Age 102. Only the good die young.

In a London, England cemetery: Here lies Ann Mann, who lived an old maid but died an old Mann. Dec. 8, 1767

In a Ribbesford, England cemetery: Anna Wallace. The children of Israel wanted bread, And the Lord sent them manna. Clark Wallace wanted a wife, And the Devil sent him Anna.

In a Ruidoso, New Mexico, cemetery: Here lies Johnny Yeast. Pardon him for not rising.

County Library releases Top Ten Checkout Lists for 2025

By Tracy DeFore, County of San Diego Communications Office

Finding books on a library’s top ten checkout list is no surprise, but a new category has made its way onto the County Library’s list.

Digital magazines were so popular last year, they were added to the mix. Checkouts jumped 43% to 808,000. Last year, the number was 563,000.

All library checkouts increased by 3.3% for a total of 11.4 million. And now, for the first time, digital items won out over physical checkouts. Last year, digital checkouts came in 6.1 million over physical checkouts of 5.2 million.

What else is new? The library’s new electric outreach vans. They travel throughout the region promoting library services and offering free library cards.

You can also get or renew library cards at any one of the library’s 33 branches or apply for an e-Card online at https://www.sdcl.org/card/ adult books (e-book and physical book checkouts combined.

• The Women: A Novel by Kristin Hannah

• Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros

• The Wedding People: A Novel by Alison Espach

• Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry

• The God of the Woods: A Novel by Liz Moore

• James: A Novel by Percival Everett

• Remarkably Bright Creatures: A Novel by Shelby Van Pelt

• Funny Story by Emily Henry

• All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker

• Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez

Downloadable Audiobooks

• The Women: A Novel (unabridged)

• Onyx Storm: (unabridged)

• The Wedding People: A Novel (unabridged)

• Funny Story: (unabridged)

• The God of the Woods: A Novel (unabridged)

• James: A Novel (unabridged)

• Great Big Beautiful Life: (unabridged)

• Pretty Girls: (unabridged) Karin Slaughter

• The Housemaid: (unabridged) Freida McFadden

• All the Colors of the Dark: (unabridged)

movies

• Wicked

• Deadpool & Wolverine

• Beetlejuice Beetlejuice

• Alien Romulus

• Conclave

• Gladiator II

• Twisters

• A Working Man

• The Fall Guy

• A Complete Unknown

Teen fiction

• Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins

• A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas

• Throne of Glass by Sarah J Maas

• The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins

• The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

• Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by JK Rowling

• Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by JK Rowling

• Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross

• Crown of Midnight by Sarah J Maas

• Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

Top 10 Children’s books

• Diary of a Wimpy Kid. [19], Hot Mess by Jeff Kinney

• Dog Man. The Scarlet Shedder by Dav Pilkey

• Spy School Goes Wild by Stuart Gibbs

• Diary of a Wimpy Kid. [18], No Brainer by Jeff Kinney

• Cat Kid Comic Club. Influencers by Dav Pilkey

• Spy School Goes North by Stuart Gibbs

• Dog Man. Big Jim Begins by Dav Pilkey

• Big Nate. Remain calm! By Lincoln Peirce

• Big Nate. This Means War! By Lincoln Peirce

• Diary of a Wimpy Kid. [17], Diper överlöde by Jeff Kinney

Top 10 digital magazines

• The New Yorker

• New Scientist

• Us Weekly

• The Week Magazine

• National Geographic Magazine

• Guardian Weekly

• Newsweek

• Woman’s World

• Bon Appetit

• Prevention

Vista Mayor • John Franklin

Law Erases Santee School Shooter’s Sentence

Nearly 25 years ago, Charles “Andy” Williams shot and killed two classmates and injured 13 others at Santana High School in Santee. Now, he is set for release—not because his victims were forgotten, but because California changed its laws to eliminate the remainder of his sentence.

The California Legislature passed SB 1391, a law that makes it nearly impossible to prosecute 14- and 15year-olds in adult criminal court— regardless of how serious the crime is, including murder. Before, prosecutors and judges retained discretion on trying minors as adults—SB 1391 removed that authority for children

under 16 years old. Because Williams was 15 years old at the time of his shooting rampage, his sentence will now come to an end.

This outcome is the direct result of radical criminal justice policies supported by soft-on-crime politicians and district attorneys. They have rewritten California’s laws and tilted the scales of justice away from victims and toward violent criminals.

But the consequences go even further—and put every Californian at risk.

Mexican cartels and criminal gangs operating in California are exploiting this law. They are recruiting 14- and 15-year-old boys to commit murder on their behalf, offering as much as $50,000 and assuring them they will be released from prison by their mid-twenties.

Cartels are using children to kill on American soil, effectively paying them a few thousand dollars a year to spend a decade in prison— if they are caught. Too often, desperate young people accept, and the cycle

of violence continues.

Make no mistake: this is happening because of California’s broken criminal justice system. Lenient laws incentivize crime instead of deterring it. U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon has confirmed that California law enabled this behavior. He prosecuted the two juveniles as adults under federal law who committed murder while working on behalf of the Sinaloa Cartel.

The results of Proposition 36 should have sent a clear message. Californians voted overwhelmingly—68% to 32%—to restore accountability and public safety.

We should be angry. Politicians and soft-on-crime district attorneys know better. They sell these policies as “compassionate,” but the reality is that their version of compassion has produced tragedy, perverse incentives, and the release of murderers— betraying victims and their families.

SB 1391 must be repealed.

jfranklin@vista.gov

resilient Weasel released after recovering from Trap injuries

A long-tailed weasel is back in the wild after spending 26 days in care at San Diego Humane Society’s Pilar & Chuck Bahde Wildlife Center, recovering from serious injuries caused by a snap trap.

The adult male weasel was brought to us by a community member who found him caught in the trap in Oceanside. During his initial exam, our Project Wildlife team discovered severe injuries to his right front paw. The trap had broken multiple digits, and two toes needed surgical amputation.

Following surgery, the weasel

spent several weeks resting, healing and regaining strength before being deemed ready for release on Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026.

Despite losing two toes, the weasel recovered well and remained bright, alert and active throughout his stay. He demonstrated a strong appetite, normal movement and the feisty personality typical of his species.

Snap traps are a common cause of serious wildlife injuries and are both cruel and unnecessary. These devices are designed to crush bones and frequently cause prolonged suffering rather than instant death.

annoying Things Couples do When They Travel (and what to do about them)

by Christopher Elliott

Of all the annoying things couples do when they travel, the coerced seat swap may be the worst.

Kirstyn Allen saw it on a recent flight from Atlanta to the Caribbean island of St. Maarten. Two newlyweds boarded the plane after her and pressured another passenger to surrender her assigned seat so they could be together.

The displaced passenger sat down next to Allen.

“She seemed flustered and annoyed,” recalls Allen, a business consultant from Atlanta.

Allen says it was the couple’s attitude that really set her off. They acted as if they were entitled to sit together on the plane and that the other passengers -- especially those who were traveling alone -should defer to them because of their couplehood.

Couples do the most annoying things when they travel, and no time is worse than now. With Valentine’s Day just a few weeks away and spring break on the horizon, the lovebirds are in the air once again.

“There is something about travel that flips a switch,” says Mairéad Molloy, a relationship psychologist based in London. “Suddenly, ‘we’re in love’ becomes an excuse for the most tonedeaf, attention-seeking, and inconsiderate behavior imaginable.”

How annoying are couples who travel? Ah, so glad you asked. There’s a list:

The Coerced Seat Swap

When couples travel, they sometimes make their problem someone else’s. And nowhere is that more evident than in the forced seat swap, which Allen experienced. “Couples need to realize that if they have a problem, it doesn’t mean they have the right to inconvenience other travelers to solve it,” says Amber Lee, co-founder of the Select Date Society. “For example, couples will often fail to pay to choose their seat on the plane and then expect other travelers to switch seats so that they can sit next to each other.” Her advice: If you want to sit together, pay up.

The Club

You know, the mile-high club. This is a broad category of misbehaviors, ranging from excessive public displays of affection to actual lovemaking on the plane. And there are

variations of this annoyance. Rosalinda Randall, a San Franciscobased etiquette expert who offers workshops on courtesy and manners, spoke to a client recently who was seated next to a couple on a plane watching their own sex tape on an iPad. “They made oohing and moaning sounds as they watched it,” she says. “It was a very awkward situation.” And completely avoidable, too. Wait until you land. Then get a room.

The Loud Argument

“One of the most annoying and disturbing things is when a couple argues, fights or raises their voices in front of people on the airplane,” says etiquette expert Maryanne Parker. There’s a reason why people fight during their flight. Travel, and especially air travel, can be stressful. (Some people I interviewed for this story have even watched a relationship end in midair -- that was painful to watch.) Parker’s advice? Work out your differences before you travel -- or don’t travel.

The Fauxmoon

Couples who claim they’re on their honeymoon in an effort to get a free upgrade are among the most annoying. Carla Sophia Layton, founder of the Socialite University School Of Etiquette, calls these fauxmoons. “Couples who falsely claim honeymoons or anniversaries to snag perks may see it as clever, but it violates etiquette’s cornerstone: honor,” she says. If you want an upgrade, pay for it.

The Lack of Common Decency

Perhaps the biggest crime traveling couples commit is “the car-

on a plane isn’t easy, but here are a few tips:

Move

Get as far away from an annoying couple as possible. If you can change seats, that fixes the problem with a minimum of fuss.

Politely Ask Them to Stop

Use your “pleases” and “thank yous” and channel your inner diplomat. Some couples have an “usagainst-the-world” mindset, so you have to tread carefully.

Ask a Flight Attendant for Help

Crew members are trained to deal with troublesome passengers like amorous or entitled couples. Leave it to the pros.

dinal sin of being cringe,” says Lorena Basualdo, a luxury travel advisor who specializes in European vacations. “We know you’re on vacation and you’re so in love, but can you peel yourselves off of each other in public?” she says. This is a distinct category from the MileHigh Clubbers, whose lewdness is much more inappropriate. “I’m absolutely all for people enjoying traveling with their partner, but you still need to be considerate of other people and have respect for those around you. Public spaces require a bit of restraint.” (Also, excessive public affection can be illegal in some countries. Maintain a safe distance at all times!) Why are couples so annoying?

The reasons behind these increasingly grating behaviors are complicated.

“It usually comes from a mix of stress, narcissism, or lack of awareness that they’re sharing space with hundreds of other people,” says John Keegan, a dating and relationship coach.

In other words, some couples are in their own world, oblivious to the discomfort and irritation they are causing their fellow passengers.

“Remember,” adds Keegan. “Travel is a test of emotional maturity. Stay present with each other, but also stay grounded and respectful of your environment. You don’t need to prove your connection — you need to live it without being a spectacle.”

How to Handle an annoying Couple

Dealing with an irritating couple

I know -- not the best options. Maybe the best option is to sit in a seat that guarantees you won’t be next to a couple. That would be an aircraft with just two seats next to each other in economy class, common on aircraft like the Airbus A330, A380, and Boeing 777. If you’re on a plane with a 2-4-2 or 2-3-2 configuration, and you’re in one of the “2” seats, you’re probably safe.

But it’s no guarantee. Consider what happened to travel writer Emily Hines when she was on a flight from Los Angeles to Maui, an island famous for its honeymooners. A couple in economy class did not allow the aisle between them to stop them from getting it on. They held hands and kissed for almost the entire six-hour flight.

“It was a completely full flight, so lots of people were walking the aisles with babies and heading to the bathroom, while flight attendants with carts were also present,” she recalls. “They would hold hands until people tried to walk by, and then they would immediately rejoin hands.”

Come on. Maybe the only thing that would be worse than a honeymooner blockade would be getting loudly guilted out of my seat by one of them. But I already have a prepared answer: No.

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

Illustration by Dustin Elliott

san diego Humane society shares How to Start the New Year on the Right Paw

Left unaddressed, behavior challenges can become the reason dog owners make the difficult decision to surrender their pet to the shelter. January is National Train Your Dog Month, and San Diego Humane Society is here to help pet families and their dogs thrive. Whether you’re teaching basic commands or addressing challenging behaviors, dog training is key to building a more harmonious home.

Tips to get You started

1. Choose the right learning environment: In-person classes may be overwhelming for some dogs. Many dogs learn best in the comfort of their own home or in a lower-traffic outdoor space where there are fewer distractions. Online dog training can be highly effective and is accessible for a variety of schedules and price points.

2. Use positive reinforcement training methods: Research shows that using humane, positive reinforcement-based training methods is the most effective way to help pets learn new behaviors and bond with their owners. Aversive or punishmentbased methods, like prong collars or shock collars, rely on fear and intimidation and hurt our relationships with our pets.

Home Equity from page 7

Both loan programs affect your equity over time if not managed carefully. A reverse mortgage, with no required payments, will have an increasing loan balance. Equity Select’s required (but low and capped) payments might preserve more equity longer, but negative amortization still happens if payments fall short of interest. Both loans offer the non-recourse feature, which provides protection from low home values.

Which fits better? If you’re 62+ with limited income and want maximum cash flow without payments—reverse mortgage (HECM) shines for aging in place. If you’re 55+, can handle minimal payments, value ongoing access (for a while), and prefer predictability with a cap—Equity Select could edge it out for flexibility and potentially lower costs.

Bottom line: Neither is “free money.” I will run personalized numbers that compare ALL of your options. It’s important to consider all of the programs available to you. A simple phone call to me and we

3. Provide the right rewards: Not all dogs are motivated by treats — but there are other ways to positively reinforce your dog. Rewards can be anything your dog finds motivating: a favorite toy, a game of tug, chasing a ball or receiving praise and affection.

4. Find a trainer you can trust: Dog training is an unregulated field, and searching for an appropriate trainer for your pets’ needs can feel overwhelming. Look for certified, reward-based trainers who demonstrate continual self-

education. Visit sdhumane.org/ training for a list of local trainers recommended by San Diego Humane Society.

For animals who do wind up in the shelter, San Diego Humane Society’s Behavior & Training program is a lifeline. Through this program, experts provide training and rehabilitation for more than a thou-

sand animals per year to help them become adoptable — like Bane, the dog pictured here. Bane spent more than a year receiving individualized support to overcome serious behavior challenges. With the help of the organization’s expert trainers and plenty of patience and consistency, he is now thriving in a loving home.

Pet training is more than just teaching tricks — it leads to happier, healthier pets and helps keep our community safe. This month, start 2026 on the right paw by helping your pet become the best version of themselves.

San Diego Humane Society’s scope of social responsibility goes beyond adopting animals. We offer programs that strengthen the human-animal bond, prevent cruelty and neglect, provide medical care, educate the community and serve as a safety net for all pet families. Serving San Diego County since 1880, San Diego Humane Society has campuses in El Cajon, Escondido, Oceanside, Ramona and San Diego. For more information, please visit sdhumane.org.

can schedule a face to face consultation. You won’t be added to a lead list where you are called, texted and emailed by many, many companies and loan officers. That’s what happens when you use an online calculator. I won’t do that to you.

If you are considering a HELOC, call me. I can make sure you understand how this loan works and how it would impact your life. If you’ve been turned down for a HELOC, call me. This may be the solution you’re seeking. This is not a reverse mortgage. It’s an alternative for those nearing retirement, and/or in retirement. You’ve worked hard for that equity—choose wisely to protect it.

Laura Strickler

Retirement Loan Specialist

EquitySmart Home Loans

NMLS #315848

760-518-9839

lauras@equitysmartloans.com www.laurastrickler.com

The Pastor says . . . spiritual Heroes

We all need heroes. My heroes as a child were comic book figures. I had Superman, Captain Midnight, The Lone Ranger, and several lesser-known figures. In our modern world, we have individuals who stand for justice, equality, and truth. We admire such people as George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Harry Truman. Often, these people cross political lines and religious backgrounds. There are times when we admire people for what they do and stand for, especially if their actions favor us. However, these people are not necessarily heroes. They are simply outstanding achievers that we admire. As a military chaplain, I had the opportunity to officiate at the funerals of many who performed heroic acts in combat. Still, I seldom heard people refer to them as heroes. There are times when even children will refer to their parents as heroes. It usually connects to some kind of outstanding deed, which the child perceives as noble. This perception was evident recently in the case of Charlie Kirk, who was assassinated for his religious views opposing the liberal views of our society. For many, he was a hero. Many admired him for his devotion to the Scriptures, even to the point of being willing to die for them.

It has been my experience to meet and share with what I call SPIRITUAL HEROES. They were not motivated by some supernatural force, or, as far as I know, God Himself, so that we can write bestsellers about them. They are simply people who rose against the comforts and challenges of everyday life.

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

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

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

El Cajon 373 N. Marshall Ave.

Escondido 3500 Burnet Drive

oceanside 572 Airport Road

Pet Parade

fallon

Fallon is an 8-month-old, 6-pound, female, Domestic Short Hair cat with a Brown Tabby coat. She was at a crowded shelter before being transferred to Rancho Coastal Humane Society through FOCAS (Friends of County Animal Shelters). She loves human attention. Fallon shows how much she enjoys it by purring loudly. She can be nervous when there are sudden movements and unexpected noises.

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

Visit Rancho Coastal Humane Society at 389 Requeza Street in Encinitas, call 760-753-6412, or log on to www. SDpets.org. Open 11 to 4 every day but Tuesday.

Pastor Huls continued on page 14

The first is about Linda, an Italian mother, wife, and schoolteacher who enjoyed living and sharing her talents in church, the community, and with her family. Then one day, she fell down a set of stairs in her home, which left her comatose for months with a severe brain injury. Special care facilities spent all their efforts on recovery. Months became years with marginal improvement. Yet, little by little, with unbelievable effort, Linda began speaking, and people could hear the semblance of words. Then

san diego 5480 Gaines Street

Pet of the Week

Zezzie

Meet Zezzie, a playful and energetic pup in search of a loving new home! Zezzie may show some fearful hesitation at first, especially when walking on a leash, but with patience and support she has begun to build confidence and form trusting relationships. She will thrive in a calm, understanding home that can help her continue progressing at her own pace. Zezzie has shown positive social behavior with other dogs in our care, but due to her sensitive nature, she will need to go to a home without young children (under 8). With time, consistency and a gentle approach, Zezzie (972204) has wonderful potential to keep growing and share her affectionate, enthusiastic personality. If you’re ready to open your heart and home to this sweet girl, visit San Diego Humane Society’s Escondido Campus at 3500 Burnet Drive to learn more about adopting her today. If you have questions about the adoption process, you can visit sdhumane.org/adopt or call 619-2997012.

Online profile: https://sdhumane.org/adopt/available-pets/animalsingle/?petId=972204

Pastor Huls

The Computer factory

845 W. san marcos blvd. 760-744-4315 thecomputerfactory.net

The first of the “personal computers” began to appear in the 1960s and 70s. More than a dozen companies marketed these expensive machines, each with its own proprietary operating system. By early 1981 only 2% of American consumers actually owned one. Then In August of 1981 computer industry giant IBM released the

IBM 5150 using Microsoft’s PCDOS operating system. The combination of the IBM PC and Microsoft’s PC-DOS revolutionized the PC industry. IBM’s share of the PC market grew from less than 1% in 1981 to nearly 30% in 1986. The release of the IBM 5150 with the Microsoft PC-DOS operating system were valuable assets. Like the car, TV and central AC, the PC became a standard 20th century household fixture.

Fast forward to 2026. The Internet began to change in 2001 when AI (artificial intelligence) was combined with high speed access to create the IW (intelligent web). The PC has become just one of many devices that serve as terminals on the Internet. The Android OS is present on 50% of the Internet access devices followed by Windows 30% and Apple’s IOS at 20%. If we eliminate smart phones from the mix we get this distribution. Windows 70%, Apple OS 16%, other OS 14%.

At The Computer Factory, most of our work involves Windows or An-

“My dog’s a pain in the neck, but I love him.”

“We don’t need another cat. I’m allergic to cats.”

“This puppy followed me home. Can I keep it?”

Why do we have pets? Everybody else in the house is expected to do their part. Pick up your toys. Clean your room. Wash the dishes. Mow the yard. Bring home a paycheck.

My other half follows a Facebook page called “Orange and Jobless.” The whole page is videos about huge, orange cats doing absolutely nothing. She’s obsessed with it.

So, why do we keep pets in our

droid based PCs along with their Internet access devices. Today’s operating systems and connection devices provide near instant access to the vast majority of mankind’s knowledge base. For the first time in the human history of planet Earth, there is a knowledge base and intelligence that rivals our own internal cognitive resources. AI may be our own creation but,

with near instant access to our entire knowledge base, there can be no doubt that its cognitive power will eventually, if not already, eclipse that of any human. So after 300,000 years we are about to lose our position as the highest intelligence on the planet to an artificial intelligence of our own creation. I hope it doesn’t get angry with us!

homes? They don’t clean up after themselves. They leave fur everywhere. And they’re an expense we could do without.

A British publication, the Guardian, asked pet owners why they keep pets.

A pet is a kind of ornament. It’s (usually) very aesthetically pleasing, it moves around the home of its own accord, it is warm and smooth to the touch, and it responds to our presence and keeps us company! - UK

It’s power over another being. Only sad, inadequate humans keep members of other species as captives. - London

If an alien saw a human cleaning up after the dog, who do you think the alien would assume was in charge? - Dana Point, California

1) I don’t own my cat, my cat owns me.

2) My cat is in many ways a baby substitute. I’m 41 & a spinster and need to be needed.

3) It’s been proved that stroking an animal lowers your blood pressure. - England

Ross said, “It makes us feel human.”

Dominic in Netherlands replied, “You got it wrong Ross. Being with humans makes me feel human. Playing with my dog makes me feel more like a dog.”

People keep pets because they can and want to, and because they’re another member of the family and another outlet/receiver for love. –

A beautiful thought from Karen in England. Wouldn’t anyone want a partner who worshipped them, always welcomed them home enthusiastically, ate gratefully at every meal, and gave lifelong loyalty and protection? I read that a large number of US women wished they could marry their dogs! - That’s from Carla in the UK, who wonders why she can’t get a date.

MIGHTY MOJO

11. 80% will not be in ministry in ten years and only a fraction make it a lifelong career.

12. On average, seminary-trained pastors last only five years in church ministry.

So the next time you see your pastor, tell him or her, just how much you love and cherish them.

Words matter. And when you say your nightly prayers, include your pastor or minister. And tell them they are in your prayers. It shows them you truly care in the highest possible way.

RESOURCES FOR HELP. If you or someone you know needs help, confidential support is available. Call the San Diego County Access & Crisis Line at (888) 724-7240 available 24/7 in multiple languages. Call or text the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.

SPECIAL THANKS to my editor/ publisher, lyle e. davis, because without his approval, this cover story would never have seen the light of day. And since he’s too modest, I’ll say this for him: Thank you for all you do to make this world a better, more enlightened place to live. God bless you, forever and a day. Also special thanks to two indispensable individuals who inspire me to do my best: California surfer girl Niki Lapitan and Tobee.

Friedrich Gomez

Oodles from page 3

fied Blacksmith Instructor

Listen and learn about the tools of the trade and the history of this ancient craft that dates back to biblical times and Blacksmithing in the 21st century.

Jan 23 1:00 Archives and Collective Memory Jennifer Ho, Communities & Cultures Archivist CSSM Archival records tell stories of our predecessors and affect our sense of being. The speaker will talk about archives and how they have enhanced understanding of her own heritage.

Jan 23 2:30 Teal Jobs Report: A Look at the Green & Blue Economies of North County San Diego Benjamin Gambos, James Clifton, Golnoosh Behrouzian; Mira Costa College Career Education Experts MiraCosta College is preparing community members for the green and blue jobs of tomorrow in North County, using the analysis from a newly released Teal Jobs Report.

Jan 30 1:00 Health Concerns in San Diego County Dr. Sayone Thihalolipavan, S.D. Health & Human Services Agency Dr. Thihalolipavan will share current health concerns in San Diego County.

Jan 30 2:30 Mongolia: Finding a Sacred Voice Through Photography Justin Moodie, N.A, M.Ed. The Tang Center for Silk Road Studies of UC Berkeley sent Justin Moodie to Mongolia to study with monks and scholars to learn about their culture and history. Justin will share some photos from his expedition.

To join a Zoom meeting, LIFE must have your email address in order for you to receive the invite link. Meetings will start at 12:45 pm (you can join 15 minutes earlier) and the speaker will start at 1:00 pm. Email: life.miracosta@ gmail.com

music men seeking guys Who Like to Harmonize

If you’re a male, high-school age or older, who LOVES SINGING and would like to try close-harmony singing, consider visiting a Music Men Chorus rehearsal in January 2026. The Music Men are a men’s a cappella (no accompaniment) choir that performs 4-part, closeharmony songs arranged Barbershop Style, with ringing chords. We are a non-profit chorus affiliated with the Barbershop Harmony Society. We sing a variety of song styles, including romantic ballads, movie/show tunes, patriotic songs, Pop, and Christmas holiday songs. We perform at both public (libraries, community centers, sporting

events) and private (retirement communities, HOA functions, birthday/anniversary parties) venues throughout North San Diego County. On Valentine’s Day, quartets from the chorus deliver Singing Valentines in the community, one of our most enjoyable activities.

We are seeking singers in all 4 voice parts: Lead (2nd tenor range, sings song melody), Bass (lowest harmony part), Tenor (1st tenor range, highest harmony part), and Baritone (2nd tenor range, sings both above and below the Lead part). YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE ABLE TO READ MUSIC TO SING WITH US! We will do a simple voice check: Can you match a pitch and can you repeat a tune? We provide audio learning tracks to help you learn your part. Also, our veteran singers in your part will help you.

If you are looking for a challenge in 2026, would like to make new friends, and just plain have fun singing with a group of dedicated guys, make a New Year’s Resolution to visit a Music Men Chorus rehearsal and see/hear what we’re all about. We meet at 7 pm on Tuesday evenings at San Marcos Lutheran Church, 3419 Grand Avenue, in Luther Hall. For more information, visit www.musicmenchorus.org.

***

The senior service Council of Escondido (ssCE) is Looking for Volunteers

As a TECH TUTOR you’ll help seniors with technology, including computers, laptops and smartphones. Volunteers hold one-hour sessions at the SSCE computer lab on a flexible schedule. If you are proficient in these technologies and would like to make a difference for a senior, please contact us.

As a TAX PREPARER between Feb and April - hours flexible. Are you good with numbers? SSCE provides the tax training you’ll need to help prepare tax returns for low income seniors.

As a RECEPTIONIST who can work 3 hours per week answering phones, scheduling appointments and helping seniors. Since 1972, the council has provided various services, support groups, and care counseling for seniors in the community.

Call 760-480-0611, email to info@ sscescondido.org or visit escondido-senior-services.org.

*** senior service Council of Escondido offering Free income Tax Preparation

The SSCE is offering FREE INCOME TAX PREPARATION for

Seniors. Get your simple 1040 and 540 tax returns prepared and filed by IRS trained volunteers. 728 North Broadway, Escondido, CA open 9-3 M-F starting Feb 1 thru April 15. Make an appointment by calling 760-480-0611 or go online to https://www.supersaas.com/ schedule/SSCE_tax_prep/SSCE_ tax_appt

Chess at Park avenue Community Center

Home of Escondido senior Center 210 Park avenue, Escondido 760-839-4688

Adults of all skill levels are welcome. Drop in anytime Wednesday OR Friday noon-3pm to play or watch in the shuffleboard building. Follow the signs or ask at the front desk for directions. Friendly games with large boards and pieces provided. No fees or reservations.

LEGALS

con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro 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. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperacion de $10,000 o mas de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesion de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso.

The name and address of the court is: (El nombre y direccion de la corte es): Superior Court of California - 325 South Melrose Drive, Vista, CA 92081, North County Division.

The name, address and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney is: (El nombre, la direccion y el numero de telefono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es): Morgan Skyberg, 4627 Mesquite Lane #1350, Borrego Springs, CA 92004, 760-405-5816

Date: (Fecha) December 3, 2025

Clerk (Secretario): M. Estrada 1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29/2026

fiCTiTious b usi NE ss NamE

sTaTEmENT 2025-9023533

The name of the businesss: Beloved Balayage, located at 1051 W. El Norte Parkway Apt 44, Escondido, CA 92026. Registrant, Beloved Beauty Partners LLC, 1051 W. El Norte Parkway Apt 44, Escondido, CA 92026. This businesss is operated by a Limited Liability Company.

First day of business 12/1/2025 /s/ Andres Covarrubias, President with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 12/16/2025 1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29/2026

fiCTiTious b usi NE ss NamE

sTaTEmENT 2025-9023691

The name of the businesss: RDD Mueller Consulting, located at 228 Vista Glen Ln., Vista, CA 92084. Registrant, Raymond Dylan Dawood-Mueller, 228 vista Glen Ln., Vista, CA 92084. This businesss is operated by an Individual.

First day of business 12/18/2025 /s/ Raymond Dylan DawoodMueller with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 12/18/2025 1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29/2026

fiCTiTious b usi NE ss NamE

sTaTEmENT 2025-9024241

The name of the businesss: San Diego Equine Rehabilitation Associates, located at 533 Washington St., Ramona, CA 92065. Registrant, Alyson Harper Behr, 533 Washington St., Ramona, CA 92065. This businesss is operated by an Individual.

First day of business 12/30/2025 /s/ Alyson Harper Behr with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 12/30/2025 1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29/2026

fiCTiTious b usi NE ss NamE

sTaTEmENT 2025-9022976

The name of the businesss: The Smile Patio Dental Group of Jonathan D. Albaugh DMD Inc., located at 30 Main St, Ste G-150, Vista, CA 92083. Registrant, Jonathan D. Albaugh DMD Inc., 30 Main St, Ste G-150, Vista, CA 92083. This businesss is op-

erated by a Corporation. First day of business 9/19/2020 /s/ Jonathan D. Albaugh, President with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 12/8/2025 1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29/2026

fiCTiTious b usi NE ss NamE

sTaTEmENT 2025-9020150

The name of the businesss: Janice Elizabeth’s Soul Food Kitchen, located at 560 Greenbrier Dr., Ste C, Oceanside, CA 92054. Registrant, Janice Elizabeth’s soul Food Kitchen, 560 Greenbrier Dr., Ste C, Oceanside, CA 92054. This businesss is operated by a Limited Liability Company.

First day of business 8/20/2020 /s/ Nadia Smalley, CEO with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 10/21/2025 11/20, 11/27, 12/4, 12/11/2025

fiCTiTious b usi NE ss NamE

sTaTEmENT 2025-9020149

The name of the businesss: American Security LLC, located at 560 Greenbrier Dr., Ste C, Oceanside, CA 92054. Registrant, American Security LLC, 560 Greenbrier Dr., Ste C, Oceanside, CA 92054. This businesss is operated by a Limited Liability Company.

First day of business 8/29/2020 /s/ Nadia Smalley, CEO with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 10/21/2025 11/20, 11/27, 12/4, 12/11/2025

fiCTiTious b usi NE ss NamE

sTaTEmENT 2026-9000001

The name of the businesss: 24Hour Logistics, located at 560 Greenbrier Dr., #C, Oceanside, CA 92054. Registrant, Nadia Bahia Smalley, 560 Greenbrier Dr., #C, Oceanside, CA 92054. This businesss is operated by an Individual.

First day of business 12/30/2025 /s/ Nadia Bahia Smalley with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 1/2/2026

1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29/2026

ordEr To sHoW CausE for CHaNgE of NamE 25Cu068799N TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Victor Galiany and Martha Elsa Galiany filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: Victor Luis Galiany to Proposed name Victor Luis Galiani, Del Peral and Martha Elsa Galiany to Proposed name Martha Elsa Galiani. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objections that includes the reasons for the objection at

least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

NOTICE OF HEARING:

Date: February 13, 2026, 8:30 am, in Dept. N-25 No hearing will occur on above date. Please see attachment The address of the court is: 325 S. Melrose Dr., Vista, CA 92081. A copy of the Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: San Marcos News Reporter, dba, The Paper, 845 W. San Marcos Blvd, San Marcos, Ca. 92078. Dated December 30, 2025

/s/ Brad A. Weinreb, Judge of the Superior Court 1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29/2026

sTaTEmENT of abaNdoNmENT of usE of

fiCTiTious busiNEss NamE: 2025-9024188

Leinig Incorporated, located at 770 Twin Oaks Vly Rd., Suite A, San Marcos, CA 92069. The Fictitious Business Name referred to above was filed in San Diego County on 1/26/2021 and assigned file no. 2021-9000837.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME IS BEING ABANDONED BY: Leining Incorporated, 770-A Twin Oaks Valley Road, San Marcos, CA 92069. This business is conducted by a Corporation. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1000).

/s/Walter V. Giniel, CEO

This statement was filed with the San Diego Recorder/County clerk on 12/29/2025. 1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29/2026

fiCTiTious b usi NE ss NamE

sTaTEmENT 2026-9000334

The name of the businesss: The Royal Xperience, located at 910 Santa Fe Ave Suite 203,. Vista, CA 92084. Registrant, Jasmine Royal, 291 N. Santa Fe Ave., Apt 304, Vista, CA 92084. This businesss is operated by an Individual.

First day of business N/A

/s/ Jasmine Royal with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 1/7/2026

1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/5/2026

fiCTiTious b usi NE ss NamE

sTaTEmENT 2026-9022709

The name of the businesss: Preventicx, located at 2305 Historic

Decatur Road Suite 100, San Diego, CA 92106. Registrant, ARA Medical Enterprises Inc., 2305 Historic Decatur Road Suite 100, San Diego 92106. This businesss is operated by a Corporation. First day of business 5/24/2018 /s/ Kevin Robell, President with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 12/3/2025

1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/5/2026

fiCTiTious b usi NE ss NamE

sTaTEmENT 2026-9022946

The name of the businesss: Albatrade, located at 810 Los Vallecitos Blvd., #M, San Marcos, CA 92069. Registrant, Raul Alba, 1430 Genoa Dr., Vista, CA 92081, Marianela De La Hoz, 1430 Genoa Dr., Vista, CA 92081. This businesss is operated by a Married Couple. First day of business N/A /s/ Raul Alba with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/ Recorder of San Diego on 12/5/2025

1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/5/2026

fiCTiTious b usi NE ss NamE

sTaTEmENT 2025-9024138

The name of the businesss: Nimbus Bakery, located at 3914 Centre Street Apt 9, San Diego, CA 92103. Registrant, Rezvan Baghbanian, 3914 Centre Street Apt 9, San Diego, CA 92103. This businesss is operated by an Individual. First day of business 11/23/2025 /s/ Rezvan Baghbanian with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 12/26/2025 1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/5/2026

fiCTiTious b usi NE ss NamE

sTaTEmENT 2025-9024289

The name of the businesss: Reyna Real Estate Services, located at 3310 Grand Ave., San Marcos, CA 92078. Registrant, Griselda Reyna, 3310 Grand Ave., San Marcos, CA 92078. This businesss is operated by an Individual. First day of business 12/29/2025 /s/ Griselda Reyna with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/ Recorder of San Diego on 12/30/2025

1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/5/2026

fiCTiTious b usi NE ss NamE

sTaTEmENT 2026-9000152

The name of the businesss: Carlsbad Oro Cleaners, located at 869 Grand Ave., Carlsbad, CA 92008. Registrant, ORO1979 Inc., 4140 Oceanside Blvd. #149, Oceanside, CA 92056. This businesss is operated by a Corporation.

First day of business N/A /s/ Allen Jaehwan Kim, Secretary with Jordan Z. Marks, SD County Clerk/Recorder of San Diego on 12/5/2026 1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/5/2026

January 15, 2026

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