D E L M A R ’ S C O M M U N I T Y J O U R N A L

Volume 18, Number 10 Winter Issue 2013

N E W S • F E A T U R E S • O P I N I O N

Also in This Issue:

Paramedics may lose critical minutes in One Paseo traffic. Photo illustration Virginia Lawrence

Vista Verde page 10

Widening Narrows page 6

Blowin’ in the Wind page 2

Hot Holiday Hints page 4

TrAffIc JAm ScAmAnn Gardner | Via Latina

Speakers at the November 14 Torrey Pines Community Planning Board meeting,

including San Diego City Mayoral candidate Michael Aguirre, reflected the escalating gulf between the City of San Diego and community groups over the controversial One Paseo project proposed for just east of I-5 on Del Mar Heights Road.

Planning Board Chair Dennis Ridz and Board member and former School Board member Dee Rich focused on the failure of the DEIR to analyze the impact of the Project’s traffic on response time for Emergency Medical Service providers from Station 24, just east of the proposed development. Ridz said the DEIR considers EMS response time from the Station to the proposed development which is just blocks away, only. There is no analysis of the impact on response time to residents and schools west of I-5 that are in the same service area, he said. He quoted former Station 24 Fire Captain Stacy Silverwood, “The DEIR seems to address only the needs of One Paseo to the exclusion of every other business, resident and visitor to Carmel Valley.” Rich was visibly angry about the lack of concern for response time to schools where playground and sports related injuries are not uncommon. Bob Fuchs, What Price Main Street, presented a One Paseo traffic analysis and said that the recirculated Alternatives Section which offers only one “feasible”

alternative that is still almost three times the allowed zoning ignores the issue.

Aguirre, the only invited Mayoral candidate to attend, got laughs when he remarked “I just happened to be in the neighborhood,” but was serious about the Board’s uphill battle in getting One Paseo reduced to be more in line with the Carmel Valley Community Plan and nearby neighborhoods including Del Mar Heights. “You are house kitties dealing

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Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 2

Editorial

LeTTerS To The edITor • The Sandpiper welcomes readers’ letters and articles. • Material submitted must include the writer’s name,

street address, and phone number, and should not exceed 500 words.

• Material selected to be published may be edited or shortened.

Send to: The Sandpiper, Box 2177, Del Mar, CA 92014; or editor@delmarsandpiper.org

The Sandpiper is published by the Del Mar Community Alliance, a not-for-profit corporation. Its purpose is to advocate the Del

Mar Community Plan, to foster informed public and government decision-making regarding issues affecting the community of the City of Del Mar, and to encourage a social and political climate

favorable to the protection of the community character of the City of Del Mar and its environs.

Chuck Newton Circle: Rosanne & Joel Holliday, Carol Kerridge, Beth Levine & Henry

Abarbanel, Diana Marquardt & Rod Franklin

Publishers’ Circle: Jeff Barnouw, Darrese & Sam Borgese, Mary Ann & Bud

Emerson, Priscilla Fawcett, Nancy Fisher & Mike Salt, Chuck Freebern, Lynn & Charlie Gaylord, Maryka & George Hoover, Pat

JaCoby, Louise Keeling in memory of Dave Keeling, Larry Schneiderman, Jane Brown Voss & Steven Voss,

Nancy and John Weare

Editors’ Circle: Penny and Buck Abell, Vava Anderson, Anthony Corso, Sandy & Bram Dijkstra, Mary & Jeffrey Friestedt, Susan & Judd Halenza, Lee Haydu, Linda & Gerald Hirshberg, Shirley King & Art Olson,

Vernie & John McGowan, Bill Michalsky, Suzi Resnick & Stan Marks, Rose Ann and Ira Sharp, Chic & Joe Sullivan, Sarah Dubin

Vaughn, Molli and Arthur Wagner

Editors: Sam Borgese, Tony Corso, Dave Druker, Bud Emerson, Nancy Fisher, Ann Gardner, Shirley King, Art Olson,

Sandi Weaver, Betty Wheeler. Webmaster: Virginia Lawrence. Editor Emeritus: John Kerridge.

All staff members and writers are unpaid volunteers. Thispublication depends upon the contributions of readers like you.

Make checks payable to Sandpiper, Box 2177, Del Mar, CA 92014

Google Images

rAkIN’ IT IN

“It shall be unlawful for any person to use or operate within the City,

any portable machine, powered with a gasoline engine or electric motor, to blow leaves, dirt and other debris off sidewalks, driveways, lawns, and other surfaces. (Ord. 535)” So reads the Del Mar ordinance on noise regulations

It further states that the purpose of the ordinance is “to secure and

promote the public health, comfort, safety and welfare, and to protect the rights of its citizens to privacy and freedom from nuisance... to prohibit unnecessary, excessive, and annoying noises at levels which are detrimental to the health and welfare of the community, and to minimize airborne dust and pollen.”

Leaf blowers have been banned here for about a decade, but they continue to flourish even though they compromise the health of all living organisms. Enforcement is lax and neighbors hesitate to “turn in” violators even though lower

income minorities/gardeners ironically are being harmed the most.

We are playing a deadly game here. Starting up a noise-polluting, two stroke leaf blower is much more air polluting than cars. They fire up at more than 100mph and kick up animal fecal matter, allergens, chemicals, molds, and other toxins which travel directly into human breathing channels. This deadly particulate matter is hazardous to human health as well as plant, insect, and animal life.

Both the Natural Resources Defense Council and the California Air Resources Board strongly recommend banning these devices to cut down particulate matter. They have documented the harm caused including cardio-pulmonary disease, heart attacks, depressed immunity, elevated blood pressure and cholesterol, hearing loss, and asthma. The small benefits hardly match the deadly cost.

We have neat yards and compromised health. Why continue doing this to ourselves?

What to do? Rake, sweep, recycle, change the enforcement targets, and educate residents. Raking and sweeping may take a little longer but are healthy activities. Leaves are excellent sources of energy and food for plants if allowed to decompose in mulchers. Leaf blowers contribute to global warming. Leaves have a cooling impact.

It is way past time for vigorous citizen action. Don’t wait for someone else to handle it. With concerted effort, one citizen at a time, we could be leaf-blower-free early in 2014. On most days we see a blower on almost every block. Each of us needs to speak up (“Hi, I want you to know that those leaf blowers are banned here, and your owner could receive a pretty big fine - maybe as much as $1,000. I would appreciate it if you would stop using it .”) Encourage both gardeners and owners to help improve the quality of the air we all breathe. If we encounter resistance, call Patty at city hall 755 9313 to follow up and issue a citation if necessary.

Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 3

Artist rendering

Pipe Up

LeTTer To The edITor Process Patience

There have been concerns expressed in the community regarding a proposed multi-family project at the corner

of Jimmy Durante Boulevard and San Dieguito Drive. The underlying message has been that the City is moving forward, disregarding the values of the community. That is not correct.

Here is the current status:

An application has been submitted by a private development company for a Specific Plan for the property at the corner of Jimmy Durante and San Dieguito Drive, and it does propose multi-family housing. However, the application was only submitted late last week and is just now undergoing an initial review by staff. Because the application has just been filed, there have not yet been any public hearings nor any review or action by the Planning Commission or the City Council.

All aspects of the proposal will be subject to numerous noticed public hearings. This includes any legislative proposals to apply a new land use designation or development standards to the property and the review of a project itself. This process will allow the community to weigh the potential benefits of the project as well as any potential adverse impacts. The City Council will review all of the information provided to make a determination on whether the project is appropriate for the community. The project is also subject to Del Mar’s design review process, including the City’s Citizen Participation Program. This will further ensure multiple opportunities for neighbors and other interested parties to review and provide comment on the project’s design.

The proposal will also undergo a thorough environmental

review, most likely an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The EIR process also provides numerous opportunities for public input.

Because we anticipate a lot of interest in this project, the City will provide a space on the Del Mar website for receipt and posting of comments. The Council and staff look forward to hearing from the public so that complete information can be considered as the proposal moves through the multiple review processes.

I hope this is helpful and will give your readers some assurance that the process is in place to thoroughly review the proposal and to seek community input. Our City Council, Planning Commission, and Design Review Board will work hard to achieve a positive project outcome for Del Mar.

Terry Sinnott, Mayor

mercI, merce!Bud Emerson | Klish Way

At least 100 Delmarians gathered at the Powerhouse for dinner and a feast of love for Merce (Mercedes

Martin), our long-time beloved City Clerk/IT Director. Twenty five years ago Merce, a single mom from Kansas, hired on as an assistant secretary, swiftly moving up the ladder to become a widely respected department head and the reliable keeper of our institutional memory. Her PhD son and husband looked on proudly as Council Members from over the years lauded her performance, followed by salutes from staff and community members. A true Del Mar gem!

Photo Sandpiper Archives

Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 4

Ask Doctor Rich

ASk dr. rIch!Rich Simons | Upper East 11th Street

Every month, Rich Simons answers readers’ most perplexing questions.

Photo illustration Art

Olson

Q: Christmas is coming right up. Do you have any hot shopping tips for us?

Do I ever! Here are just a few:

Hot Tip No. 1: Don’t do it. I mean: JUST DON’T DO IT! At least not in the traditional Ameican way – jump in the car, drive for 40 minutes, park, walk about 30 minutes to one of those glorified mosh pits called “shopping malls.” then spend hours trading elbow jabs with your fellow citizens as you vie for the juiciest merchandise. Instead – do the following:

Hot Tip No. 2: Not too long ago there was an invention called the “home computer.” Through the miracle of electricity these gadgets somehow connect with all the stores you ever heard of, so you can browse through all of their merchandise from your bedroom, compare prices, etc. Then you can make your purchase by clicking this cute little thing called a “mouse.” And they deliver!

Heck – maybe they wrap – I dunno. Anyway, you never have to get out of your pajamas. If this technology is foreign to you, any kid over eight years of age will be happy to assist you. If you yearn for the Christmas music at the mall, ask the kid to punch up “Jingle Bells” on Pandora. The kid will understand. You don’t need to. Enjoy.

Hot Tip No. 3: (This is for the guys.) Do NOT imagine that you know what color pendant will go with your wife’s eyes. You DON’T. Do NOT presume that you know the right sweater size for your niece. You DON’T. Women can do this (e.g. – “This blouse will be perfect for Aunt Janet”).

You CAN’T.

What you want to do is tell all your “loved ones” that they are free to shop for whatever they want. Tell them to send

you the bill and the merchandise and that you will lovingly wrap the goodies and place them under the tree.

Hot Tip No. 4: (Also for the guys.) DO go shopping for yourself. Contrary to what they want you to believe, women can’t read minds. WHO could know that for years you have coveted a walk-in humidor or a Bose Soundlink Mini Bluetooth Speaker? So buy whatever you want, pass it all out to your “loved ones” to be wrapped and promise that you will pretend to be surprised.

Hot Tip No. 5: (This is for the ladies.) Ignore Tip No. 4. DO go shoppng for your man. For clothes, that is. You can’t go wrong. Real men don’t shop for clothes – they have clothes (and they’ve had them - for years!) And guys don’t really care what they wear, just so it’s COMFORTABLE. So buy whatever you would like to see on your men. Just go up one size.

Hot Tip No. 6: Relax. Enjoy the “Holiday Season.” A week later, no one will remember who gave what to whom.

dmTV PreSeNTSBetter Brain, Better LifeLuana Karr | Del Mar TV

Better Brain, Better Life. Seems simple enough but so many of us do not make a conscious effort to

exercise our brain. Explore the brain’s amazing ability to change throughout a person’s life through the better brain workshop presented by Dr. Michael Merzenich, PhD.

Dr. Merzenich is a pioneer in the field of neuroplasticity – the science behind brain fitness, and it has been called one of the most extraordinary scientific discoveries of the 20th century. We were lucky enough to have Dr. Merzenich

present a workshop through Community Connections, and the Del Mar Television Foundation was happy to participate by archiving this informative workshop.

The Co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Posit Science; Dr. Michael Merzenich, Professor Emeritus and creator of the Brain Fitness Program software, has published more than 200 articles including many in leading peer-reviewed journals (such as Science and Nature).

What recent research has shown is that under the right circumstances the older brain can grow, too. Although certain brain machinery tends to decline with age, there are steps people can take to tap into plasticity and reinvigorate how our brains function. We just have to “exercise” the brain in the right way. Similarly, people suffering from a

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Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 5

variety of cognitive conditions may be able to retrain their brains to healthier function. The key—and the challenge—lies in identifying what brain mechanisms to target, and how to exercise them effectively. When you think of exercise, don’t forget your brain.

Viewers can check out this informative workshop on Del Mar Television, Time Warner Channel 130 or AT&T Channel 99 and scroll down to Del Mar. Check the website for schedule. You can also stream it on your computer or tablet. Don’t forget our Vimeo and Youube Channels.

dmTV PreSeNTScontinued from page 4

LocAVore’S deLIghTcurrying the flavor Leslie Robson | Lois Lane | Treasurer, DM Farmer’s Market

This is a quick and easy recipe

that can be modified infinitely as desired. It can be vegan or non-veg. Any vegetables that you find at the Del Mar Farmers Market will work. Only a select few have been listed. Vegetables like bok choi should be added only at the end, as they need very little cooking.

coconut red curryIngredients:

2 T virgin coconut oil

2 cloves minced garlic (Schaner)

1 T minced fresh ginger

1 medium julienned red pepper (Ray’s Subtropical-seasonal)

1 medium chopped yellow onion (Schaner)

1 14 oz can light coconut milk

2 T Thai Red Curry Paste

(14 oz of vegetable stock)

3 cups bite size pieces of any combination of the following:

carrots (Kawano, Valdivia, Schaner)

squash (Valdivia, Blue Heron, Ray’s Subtropical, Schaner, Kawano)

Asian eggplant (Schaner, Ray’s Subtropical)

sweet pea pods (Blue Heron, Valdivia)

peas (Blue Heron-seasonal)

cauliflower (Kawano-seasonal)

baby bok choi (Ray’s Subtropical, Blue Heron)

mushrooms (Kawano)

Garnishes: hot chili oil, fresh lime juice, chopped green onion, toasted unsweetened coconut

Optional: tofu; shrimp or chicken (precooked)

Directions:

Saute garlic, ginger, red pepper, and onion in the coconut oil until soft. Add the coconut milk and red curry paste. Add the vegetables of your choice and simmer gently until the tenderness you like is achieved. Add the optional tofu, shrimp or chicken. This will be sauce like, so if you desire a soup consistency, add 14 oz of vegetable stock.

Serve with precooked brown basmati or jasmine rice, or buckwheat soba noodles.

SANdPIPer To hIBerNATePlease note that there will be no print issue of the Sandpiper in January. The next print issue will appear in February 2014. The Sandpiper website, however, will be updated regularly, so please check it often.

happy holidays!

SuPPorT The SANdPIPer

The Sandpiper editors and writers are all community volunteers. Our only expenses are

printing and mailing, mostly supported by generous regular donors. Every year we ask other members of the community to pitch in additional funds to help us meet our budget.

Donations in any amount are greatly appreciated.

$2,500 per year for 3 years - Chuck Newton Circle

$1,000 per year for 3 years - Publishers’ Circle

$500-$999 for 3 years - Editors’ Circle

$250-$499 - Subscribers

$100-$249 - Readers

Donations by check: payable to the Del Mar Community Alliance, Del Mar Sandpiper, P.O. Box 2177, Del Mar, CA 92014.

To contribute online go to: www.delmarsandpiper.org

Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 6

Stuck in Traffic

I-5 Northbound, Just North of Del Mar Heights Road Bicycle/Pedestrian Enhancement. Courtesy Keep San Diego moving.Old Sorrento Valley Road Bicycle/Pedestrian Enhancement.

Courtesy Keep San Diego moving.

cLoSe To geTTINg ThereAnn Gardner | Via Latina

The Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and Public Works Plan/Transportation and Resource Enhancement

Program (PWP/TREP) for the North Coast Corridor Project to widen I-5 between La Jolla Village Drive and Oceanside were released last month and are expected to go before the California Coastal Commission for approval next spring with construction beginning in 2015. The Final EIR, according to CALTRANS, completes the planning process for the highway component of a $6.5 billion North Coast Corridor Program that also includes a number of projects intended to provide environmental and public transit balance to the highway widening. For instance, there is funding for an environmental review of the proposed San Dieguito Double Track/Platform project that would replace the bridge at Del Mar and construct a seasonal train platform at the Fairgrounds, and for the purchase of lagoon highlands as mitigation for impact on the Coast to Crest Trail.

According to CALTRANS the Final EIR includes and takes into account over 6,000 responses from community members and public agencies to the Draft EIR and Supplemental Draft. The Supplemental was issued after Senate Bill 468 (Kehoe) requiring specific attention to the impacts of freeway expansion on coastal wetlands and public transit improvements to keep pace with freeway expansion, was passed. The Supplemental provided additional information on the environmental impacts, mitigation measures and “enhancements” for the project, and confirmed that CALTRANS would favor an express lanes only option.

Key changes from the original 2010 Draft EIR include: selection of the narrowest of all the proposed build alternatives, adding express lanes only, as the preferred alternative; a 27-mile North Coast Bike Trail which closes gaps in the existing bike trail network ; projects in a $170

million Resource Enhancement Mitigation Program intended to protect and restore natural habitat at several North Coast Corridor locations; lengthening bridges over the several lagoons intended to improve tidal flow, and a redesigned Manchester Avenue Direct Access Ramp from an overpass to

an underpass to minimize project footprint.

Phase One (2015-2018) of the fully funded highway construction will add one HOV lane in each direction from

Lomas Santa Fe Drive to

State Route 78,

replace and lengthen the highway bridges at the San Elijo and Batiquitos lagoons, construct sound walls from Lomas Santa Fe Drive to SR 78 and construct the Lomas Santa Fe Drive to Cannon Rd in Oceanside segment of the 27-mile North Coast Bike Trail.

Although the official 60-day comment period for the PWP/TREP closed on April 29, CALTRANS welcomes additional public feedback that can be submitted by email to NCCPWP@dot.ca.gov. Public agencies and community groups, such as the Friends of the San Dieguito River Valley, San Dieguito River Park, Torrey Pines Community Planning Board and the City of Del Mar intend to continue working with CALTRANS on details of the PWP/TREP. For more information readers are encouraged to visit KeepSanDiegoMoving.com/NCC. Note specifically appendix R of the Final EIR which covers the PWP/TREP. A figure showing planned improvements for the Del Mar area can be found on our website delmarsandpiper.org and will be covered in detail in our next issue.

Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 7

Stuck in Traffic

eoL gdr

SoL

A seven to three vote of the California Coastal Commission requires the 22nd District Agricultural Association to abandon and restore

the South Overflow Lot (SOL) to wetlands but allows the District to continue parking on recently identified wetlands on the East Overflow

Lot (EOL) and Golf Driving Range (GDR). 22nd DAA photo

with alley cats,” he said after listening to the Board’s initial discussions on the recirculated Alternatives Section of the DEIR. Use Public Records Act to get more information on dealings between the developer and the City, he suggested, and “stand up for your property rights.”

Diana Scheffler, former Board member, described the differences between One Paseo’s “Main Street” and actual Main Streets which, she said have generally been obliterated by freeways for cars. “Main Streets as we remember them have been replaced by shopping malls,” she noted, adding that the One Paseo project, absent any public transit in the area, will depend on attracting car traffic to patronize their high end stores and restaurants. “It will be busy, but it will not be the Main Street we remember or those now envisioned by Smart

TrAffIc JAm ScAmcontinued from page 1

heroNS or hoNdAS? Ten-Year TenureAnn Gardner | Via Latina

Will there be restored wetlands or parked cars on a portion of

the Fairgrounds East Overflow Lot next to the San Dieguito River? On November 13, the California Coastal Commission (7-3) chose parking, for now, allowing the 22nd Agricultural Association District (Ag District) to park cars for ten more years on 4.8 acres targeted by the environmental community for a conservation easement. At the end of ten years, the Ag District must complete an analysis of alternative parking locations and return to the Commission for permission to continue using the wetlands as a parking lot. The Commission also approved a second annual race meet at the Fairgrounds from November 5 to December 7.

San Dieguito River Park staff, environmental groups and Del Mar Council Members Lee Haydu and Don Mosier, who spoke in support of the Commission staff’s recommendation for an easement requiring elimination of parking at the end of ten years and restricting usage during that time to fair and race seasons only, were visibly disappointed. However their arguments did convince a majority of the Commissioners to add the ten year limit after a motion by Greg Cox of Chula Vista without any time limit, failed.

Speakers in support of staff’s recommendation cited the

ten year grace period as enough time for construction of a new train platform at the Fairgrounds, greater use of shuttle vehicles from offsite parking areas and limiting the

number of events at the Fairgrounds at any one time, to reduce car traffic and the need for parking so close to the River. Dave Roberts, County Supervisor for our District and member of the San Dieguito River Park Joint Powers Agency, commented after the meeting that “parking does not belong on wetlands, and ultimately I hope the contested acreage will revert to the River Park for restoration.”

The 22nd Ag District said they had to make up for the loss and restoration of the South Overflow Lot as a result of the Cease and Desist Order drawn up last year that settled differences over

past violations at the Fairgrounds. They also cited their compliance with a 100 foot buffer along the River bank, a $20,000 a year contribution to the San Dieguito River Park and educational events at the Fair that promoted the Park, a 50-mile long Coast to Crest River Valley Park that begins at the River mouth in Del Mar.

Growth advocates who call for mixed use centers connected by public transit,” she said.

Bernie Turgeon, Senior Planner with San Diego Development Services Department and the only City representative to attend the meeting, reported that although the Final Environmental Impact Report is expected to be issued by March and heard by the San Diego Planning Commission in April or May, there may be additional review by the resurrected Planning Department which, according to the new Director, will restore community planning to its rightful place as an important component in the City’s business. Given Ridz’s declaration that the City’s attention to their concerns about One Paseo has been an “abject failure,” this may be good news. In the meantime the Board approved a subcommittee to prepare and submit comments to the recirculated Alternatives Section by the December 10 deadline and urged the some 50 attendees to do likewise.

Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 8

ShorT TAkeS oN fILmBen Nyce | Via Latina

Two strong films – both about

survival – have been playing in San Diego. All Is Lost is probably the strongest, based on its astonishing visuals. It is directed by J. C. Chandor who made the excellent Margin Call, and stars Robert Redford in a virtually wordless performance. We are not told the Redford character’s name, nor any details about his life. He is “the man” trying to keep his 40-foot yacht afloat after it is hulled by a floating cargo container in the middle of the Indian Ocean.

The camera relentlessly watches as he improvises various repairs. We’re right next to him as he resourcefully fights a losing battle. What will he do to shore up the leaking hull? How can he right the overturned inflatable life raft, or somehow get the waist deep water out of the yacht’s cabin? His resourcefulness is in the American grain. Chandor’s camera gives us the full sweep of his isolation in the wide sea. A savage storm overturns the boat and we see him and the boat rolling under water. High shots show him at the top of the mast, or groping underwater in the cabin to retrieve cans of food or necessary tools. Shots from deep below the boat show shark circling or schools of smaller fish curious about the vessel. The film drenches us in the ocean. It doesn’t feel at all as if it were shot in the studio, though the cabin sequences surely were.

But the film’s most unusual feature is its wordlessness. We don’t hear the man ruminating in voice-over; we don’t hear him groan in exhaustion. He doesn’t pray or beseech. He’s strong, silent, isolated – like many heroes in American westerns. Redford’s minimalism is perfect for the part. What a work-out the film must have been for him.

In 12 Years A Slave directed by Steve McQueen an educated, skilled, free northern black man is subjected to unremitting brutality when he is sold into slavery. Fantasies of gracious plantation life, with happy black nannies and cheerfully compliant cotton pickers singing all the day are demolished. Solomon Northup, played by Chiwetel Ejiofor, is beaten into submissive servitude by a vicious small plantation owner Epps (Michael Fassbender). Epps has his pickers’ baskets weighed after each day and short pickers are routinely whipped at the post. The whippings are vivid and hard to watch. This isn’t violence as entertainment a la Tarantino. On one occasion Solomon is left hanging by his neck for several hours, his feet

heLLo offIcer? Dave Druker | 10th Street

A few years ago the Finance Committee looked at the costs of the contract between the City of Del Mar and

the County Sheriff to provide law enforcement. These costs were rising at a very steep rate in comparison to the overall budget of Del Mar. Meanwhile the service level being provided by the Sheriff did not seem by many to be commensurate with the costs.

The City of Del Mar and other cities negotiate jointly with the Sheriff to determine the cost of services. These cities include Solana Beach, Encinitas, Vista, San Marcos, Poway, La Mesa, Santee and Lemon Grove. By negotiating as a group, the cities have more leverage over costs. But each city must choose from the “menu” of service levels for its needs.

The City hired the consulting firm of Ralph Anderson and Associates to perform a study of the current services to determine if there could be a more cost effective means to provide better services. John Goss a former City Manager and George Rawson a former police chief conducted a very thorough study.

In summary, the study found that the annual cost of Del Mar having its own police force would be commensurate with the cost of the Sheriff contract about $2 million beginning in 2014. However there would be some unknown costs of liability and workers’ compensation that could make Del Mar’s own police force become more expensive in the future. An additional major cost would be about $1 million for the initial setup of an independent police force including hiring personnel, locating or building

barely touching the ground. Other slaves go about their business nearby, seemingly indifferent to his plight. The threat of terror permeates this life. When he’s had enough liquor Epps gets his slaves up in the middle of the night and has them “dance” to Solomon’s violin playing. Solomon survives by obeying “Master Epps” but his spirit is unbroken. He doesn’t give up hope that eventually he will be free. The full barbarity of the African-American slave experience is powerfully presented. It’s a subject that, with the exception of Roots 35 years ago, has been largely avoided.

Nyce taught literature and film at USD. He authored “Satyajit Ray” and “Scorsese Up Close.” Check the Del Mar Library at 755-1666 for availability of films discussed in this column.

continued on page 9

Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 9

Photo Sandpiper Archives

a facility, and purchasing equipment. The cost of dispatch is unknown as there is no guarantee that the Sheriff would contract out that service for Del Mar.

The other major conclusions dealt with service levels including response times. The report suggested ways to improve service under the existing Sheriff contract. The report suggested that a stand-alone department would more than double the number of police staff thereby improving service levels and decreasing response times.

The report recommended that the City negotiate better coverage by trading a fulltime detective for a ½ time detective and a ½ officer on patrol, using the traffic officer as backup for the fulltime officer on patrol and better monitoring of the service levels.

The consultants and the Captain of the Encinitas Sheriff Department gave a long presentation to the City Council on Monday, November 18. The Council agreed that the community would be served better by continuing the Sheriff contract for now and directed staff to pursue

heLLo offIcer?continued from page 8

the recommended changes in personnel and service levels as well as better monitoring. The Council also asked the Finance Committee to delve more deeply into the potential costs of a stand-alone police department.

mAkINg mAIN STreeT Richard Earnest | DMVA President

Del Mar has joined a growing national movement, California Main Street Alliance, that works with

communities to improve the economic, social, cultural and environmental well-being of traditional commercial districts. For decades, downtowns have served as the social, cultural and financial lifeblood of communities across America. However, in recent years Main Street’s shops and restaurants, once filled with familiar faces, have been competing with big box stores and increasing development in sprawling bedroom communities. Here in Del Mar, we’re not ready to let downtown become a memory.

This year the Del Mar Village Association (DMVA)

submitted an application to the Alliance that was nearly 3 inches thick and filled with documentation, data and narratives covering the over 12 years of revitalization programming sponsored by DMVA including annual events, downtown improvements, business support and historic preservation and education. A certified local Main Street program must meet stringent criteria and pass an on-site assessment conducted by the state program.

In November DMVA was certified as a Main Street Association by the California Main Street Alliance.

DMVA sponsored annual events include:

• The Taste of Del Mar & Art Stroll

• Summer Beach Festival

• Holiday Wonderland & Holiday Tree Lighting

• Santa by the Sea

• Summer Solstice

• Vintner Dinners

• Sunset Soiree

• Pink Lady Event

• Last Day at the Track

• Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Cheering station

• Along with support of bike and running races and local events

DMVA improvements in the downtown include:

• The Del Mar Village entrance signs

• Public Art

continued on page 11

SherIff’S SATISfAcTIoN SurVeY

The Sheriff’s Department is conducting a survey of residents to find out their attitudes and

opinions about the Sheriff’s Department. Please take a few minutes to complete this survey. It should take approximately 10-15 minutes to complete. Your responses are very important. The Sheriff’s Department will be accepting feedback through the end of 2013.

For more information, please contact the San Diego County Sheriff’s Encinitas Station at (760) 966-3500.

Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 10

The bluffs above North Beach. Drawing from a flyer for the 1976 Keep Greenery in the Scenery campaign.

A view of North Beach from the Bluffs, shown in foreground. Photo Bill Morris.

Seagrove Park. Photo Bill Morris

greeNerY IN The SceNerYFreda Reid | Cuchara Drive

“Keep Greenery in the Scenery!” is a catchy slogan coined by Payne

Johnson in the 1970’s. It launched an ambitious campaign to raise funds to plan and landscape two prime parcels of ocean view land in the city, one as a traditional park the other as a natural fully protected preserve.

The two parcels: one and one-half acres at the foot of 15th Street that became our much loved, actively used Seagrove Park, and four and one-half acres on the bluffs north of the San Dieguito River Mouth that became our natural, undisturbed Del Mar Bluffs Preserve.

The 15th St. property was originally owned by the Ed Fletcher Company, and though undeveloped, was very tasty bait for future development (There were rumors of a Chart House restaurant!). It was subsequently acquired by the Lion Property Co. a business owned by Del Mar Resident Art Allard. He offered the parcel to the City at a very reasonable discounted price but funds were only available for partial purchase of ¾ acre. The passage of a 1976 bond issue for $250,000 made it possible for the young city to become the owner of the entire piece of oceanfront land amongst other purchases.

The north bluff property had a magnificent view of the

Pacific Ocean and the San Dieguito River Valley and was especially loved by beach front residents. In 1971 a car dealer from Illinois bought an option on the property from Lester Finklestein and hired a Del Mar architect to design an apartment complex that would stair step down the bluff to the beach. North beach residents were concerned and eventually James Scripps generously offered to donate $250,000 for purchase of 4.5 acres on the western and southerly faces for Del Mar Bluffs Preserve. The rest of the 8 acres on top of

the bluff was purchased privately by Helen Woodward thus protecting the whole bluff from development.

The citywide campaign to raise funds for planning and developing these prime properties was launched by active members of the Del Mar Civic Association led by Tom Pearson and supported by a City Council enthusiastically supportive of the effort. It was an exciting time to be part of the young city of Del Mar. Del Marians of all persuasions and abilities worked together. Four hundred people attended a “Stars for Parks” celebration organized by Desi Arnaz and Jimmy Durante (who had homes on the beach near 19th Street in Del Mar). The Lomas Santa Fe Country Club offered its facilities and Hollywood stars including Lucille Ball, Desi Jr. and Lisa Minnelli provided entertainment. Over $8000 was raised for Del Mar parks. This started a campaign to raise the rest of the funds needed and eventually, with the help of the “Greenery in the Scenery” slogan and the response of Del Mar residents willing to work hard to preserve our precious assets we retained two of the most scenic areas of the city for public enjoyment.

Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 11

A model of Birdwing against the Lagoon. Courtesy Jeffrey Barnouw

San Dieguito River Park Trailside Classroom Preliminary Concepts, Spurlock Poirier Landscape Architects - Roesling Nakamura Terada

Architects, Inc.

• Event and Holiday Banners and lights

• Pedestrian and lifeguard directory and map signs

• Recycling and trash receptacles

• Benches

• Bike racks

• Traffic and parking improvements

• Utility box beautification

• QR Code Historic building plaques

DMVA has assisted in promoting the village and supporting the business community and historic preservation with continuing projects:

• Downtown directory, maps and brochures

• E-blasts to the businesses and community

• Regional and national PR of Del Mar as a destination

• Interactive website

• Free Parking and Holiday Voucher program

• Conducting business seminars

• Coordinating and implementing the summer Valet program

• Working with economist professionals to evaluate ways to stimulate new businesses and help existing businesses

• Linking vacant properties with potential new business tenants

• Acting as a liaison between the business community and the City of Del Mar

• Developing a historic holiday ornament collection

• Conducting an annual historic downtown walking tour with the local elementary schools

• Creating a historic walking map and historic building plaque program

Becoming a certified Main Street organization will continue to provide DMVA with a proven framework to help preserve the historic character of downtown Del Mar while attracting business, capital investors, and consumers. The expanded networking with the other California Main Street communities (Coronado, Encinitas, Leucadia, North Park to name just a few) will allow DMVA to tap into additional collective wisdom and ideas. Certification will also provide enhanced professional training and technical assistance and access to additional grant funding for downtown improvement projects. Now that DMVA is certified, it intends also to pursue National accreditation with the National Trust for Historic Preservation and become a true National Main Street leader to help play a larger role in legislation impacting downtowns in California. This is a true honor to be recognized by the California Main Street Alliance and join the ranks of other certified California Main Street organizations.

mAkINg mAIN STreeTcontinued from page 9

BIrdWINg TAkeS WINgJeffrey Barnouw | Amphitheatre Drive

You read about its coming in the Sandpiper of June 2012, the “Birdwing” open-air classroom by the Lagoon Trail

in the San Dieguito River Park. A grant from a San Diego County discretionary fund, $112,600 of our tax dollars, was provided by Supervisor Pam Slater-Price to launch the project. A second contribution of $227,000 was added in October 2013. The first phase of construction, completed March 15, 2013, included excavation and grading and the creation of a dry streambed-arroyo for drainage.

Now that the bird nesting season is over, construction has resumed, heralded by a Ground-breaking Ceremony on October 24, attended by many supporters, Third-Graders from Ocean Air Elementary and Pam Slater-Price and her successor as Supervisor, Dave Roberts. He has arranged for a further County grant of $150,000 to enable completion, that is, to put the roof on it.

The San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy is also raising funds, to cover permitting, landscaping etc., so far $140,000 toward a goal of $160,000. They held an afternoon party at the Belly-Up and a reception on the lawn of Arkal and Vasanthi Shenoy’s home overlooking the valley and the site.

Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 12

exTrA coPIeS of The SANdPIPer are available at: City Hall, the Library, the Del Mar Community Building, the Powerhouse, and

the Carmel Valley Library; at The Gym at Del Mar on Jimmy Durante Blvd; at the Solana Beach

Library and the Solana Beach Community Center.

From left to right: Ellen Soldinger (The Winston School), Heather Glenn (Community Connections), Kristen Druker (Del Mar Rose

Society), Jenelle Zingg (Community Connections), Hilde Koessler (Del Mar Rose Society), and Nate McCay (Community Connections).

roSY ThANkSgIVINgcollaboration in full BloomKristen Druker | 10th Street

The Del Mar Rose Society, working together with Community Connections and The Winston School

will be making and delivering beautiful and fragrant rose bouquets for local residents this Thanksgiving. A tradition born over a decade ago from the home of Dwyn Robbie, the event has blossomed into a festive gathering each year at the Powerhouse Community Center, prior to the holiday for Rose Society members. Del Mar Rose Society Chairs for the project, Kristen Druker and Hilde Koessler are working closely with Heather Glenn of Community Connections and Ellen Soldinger of the Winston School to make sure that lovely garden roses grace tables of Community Connections members that Glenn specifies. The Winston School contributes by making hand painted tags wishing recipients a Happy Thanksgiving from the three community groups involved. For Del Mar Rose Society members it has become an anticipated annual event and a labor of love.

geT A LoAd off

Thanks to the City’s recently opened passenger loading zones at 26th and 24th streets, it is

now easier to load and unload your car for a trip to our beautiful beach. At the west end of 26th there is room for three or four cars and on 24th street at Oceanfront room for one car. Both loading zones provide safe, easy, convenient access to the beach close to the lifeguard tower at 25th where there are public restrooms and showers. However, the only parking at 25th street is the blue zone for people with disabilities. Please notice the signs at 26th and 24th reminding the drivers that these spaces are for “active loading” and are not parking spaces. For questions regarding these loading zones or any other parking inquiries please call the Beach Safety HQ at 858-755-1556.

hoLIdAY INSurANce Toys for Tots

For our 15th holiday season, we’re proud to be an official drop-off station for the U.S. Marine Corps

Reserves’ “Toys for Tots” campaign.

So please help us make the holidays brighter for San Diego area families by dropping off a new, unwrapped children’s toy at my office at 1011 Camino Del Mar, in downtown Del Mar.

We’re open to accept your holiday donations from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM Monday through Friday NOW through December 20th. So please join in the fun and help us spread the Holiday Spirit to our San Diego area families.

Jim Coleman and Staff Your State Farm Insurance Agency (858) 755-6794

Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 13

Andrew Do and Cuc Nguyen, Andy’s wife. Courtesy Do family.

VIVA Le BAmBou!Anthony Corso | Stratford Court

Tucked away in the nearby Del Mar Heights Village Shopping Center there is a distinguished restauranteur

who is also a devoted amateur tennis player, a former Vietnamese military air force pilot, father of six, and grandfather of seven. His name is Andrew Do and as many readers know, he and his wife, Cuc Nguyen, are the owners of Le Bambou Restaurant.

Before the Vietnam War his family owned and maintained extensive agricultural property; the Communists confiscated all of it.

He became a military pilot, was sent to Keesler Air force Base in Mississippi for training, flew fighters and supported the American military offensive in Vietnam. After the War he had to flee with his family. They were relocated with thousands of others to Camp Pendleton. Fortunately, he had relatives living in San Diego, who had been involved in graduate work at the University of California. They sponsored the family, allowing Andrew, his wife, and six children to pursue what they defined as the “American dream.”

After considerable family discussion, they opened a restaurant in City Heights, the first Vietnamese Restaurant in Southern California. Customers quickly discovered that his wife was a skilled and gifted chef with a mastery of Vietnamese cuisine and an unusual ability to blend French and Asian cuisine. The Do family gained a following of enthusiastic patrons in the very first month thanks to an article in The Reader which extolled the elegant dishes, the ambiance and the friendliness of family members.

In 1986 the family opened the current restaurant in Del Mar at the bidding of numerous patrons. Thus began a lengthy engagement of almost thirty years with a menu that Andy Do notes “has been adjusted to accommodate Del Marian’s desire for low fat, healthy, fresh food.” Numerous reviews note that the dishes are exceptional, “full of flavor and authentic.” The menu includes such esoteric specialties as Lacque Duck, Seafood Clay Pot Rice, Cornish Game Hen, and Ground Shrimp with Sugar Cane, Hot and Spicy Chicken Noodle Soup and a vast array of Lunch Specials. Invariably the reviews all end with “Bon Appetit.”

In 1996 when the Reader began doing “Best Issues” Le Bambou won the reader poll for the best Vietnamese cuisine; they won every year from 1996 onward. The walls are covered with such tributes and other awards including those from San Diego Magazine.

Small distinct, local businesses add considerable interest and vitality to large complexes like shopping centers. In this respect, Le Bambou manages to make a substantial contribution to a center that could easily become yet another collection of undistinguished corporate stores and enterprises. Donahue Schreiber, the firm which is engaged in redesign and renovation of the Center, seems to recognize this in its collaborative discussions with the Torrey Pines Planning Group.

As our city and region continue to attract more

investors and numerous proposals to develop and redevelop major portions of the area, it becomes increasingly important that establishments like Le Bambou remain, be supported and encouraged as major contributors to the quality of life and to our highly cherished unique environment.

SuPPorT eNdANgered SPecIeSAnn Gardner | Via Latina

Changes are coming to the Del Mar Heights Shopping Center even though the new owner Donahue Schriber,

the same retail property company that recently finished renovations at Del Mar Highlands east of I-5, has not yet begun its renovation on this side of the freeway.

According to the company, O’Brien’s Boulangerie’s wholesale business has expanded beyond the walls of the current location and will be leaving the center at the end of December to relocate in Escondido. Boulangerie owner Edgar Escobar said he was sad to leave his customers here but excited about his new, expanded business. Le Bambou, a Vietnamese restaurant in business at this location for 26 years, may be leaving next spring although the date is not yet certain. The restaurant owner, Andy Do, is still talking with Donahue Schriber and hopes to extend his lease for another five years.

Elizabeth Schreiber, Vice President, and Russ Monroe, Property Manager, said no other stores are expected to leave and that they will be presenting their architectural plans to the Torrey Pines Community Planning Board in January. They emphasized that they are not expanding the size of the shopping center and continue to be committed to a neighborhood ambience with additional pedestrian access and local businesses that are geared to the needs of nearby residents. Their immediate goal is to “freshen the appearance while maintaining the neighborhood charm” and perhaps to increase the eateries geared toward families.

Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 14

Dr. Wheelock and his wife, Mary. Sandpiper archives.

Deacon Al Graff. Photo Nancy Fisher

docTor deL mArNancy Fisher | 24th Street and Deacon Al Graff | La Jolla

Several Sandpiper readers have informed us that the Del Mar Medical Clinic,

established by Dr. G. Richard Wheelock in 1955, will be moving to a new location in Solana Beach in November. The clinic, now known as Scripps Coastal Medical Center, is a part of Del Mar history that many long-time residents remember as once being “the only game in town.”

To pay tribute to Dr Wheelock and this Del Mar institution, the Sandpiper spoke with Deacon Al Graff, a close personal friend of “Dr. Dick,” a collaborator in his charitable efforts, and a fellow Rotarian.

NF: You and Dr. Wheelock have been friends for more than sixty years. How did you meet?

AG: My family moved to Rancho Santa Fe in 1948 and, when our family physician passed away, Dr. Wheelock accepted my family into his practice. And what a wonderful, competent, physician he was. He personally knew each of his patients and referred you, if needed, to a competent specialist. Dr. Dick made house calls if a patient was unable to come to his office, and would often see patients in the middle of the night if they required immediate attention.

NF: Along with his medical practice, Dr. Wheelock is well known for his charitable work. Can you tell us more about that?

AG: I was a member of a non-profit called Esperanza International that built small homes and was developing a significant health care center in Tijuana when I mentioned a special case to Dr. Dick. A young man, who was wheelchair bound, had learned to repair radios and was supporting his parents and brothers, but his small home needed an additional room for the repair business. Dr. Dick invited me to share this need with the Del Mar Rotary. The Rotary agreed to build the room, brought in experienced construction people and, in one long day, completed the addition. I joined the Rotary!

NF: And that was just the start for you two, right?

AG: Yes. In the summer of 1991, Dr. Dick retired from his profession, and after returning from a trip to Tijuana to see the progress of the health center, made the most simple and profound request. “Al, can you get me a little space at the St. Leo Mission Church where I can see some patients?” Msgr. Larry Purcell, Pastor of St. James and St. Leo churches in Solana Beach knew of the dire need of the working poor without health insurance and agreed to let us use a lean-to on the north side of the church. We made that into two examining rooms, the nurses were outside, and the intake was in a small adjacent kitchen. And so it began.

NF: And we know it took off from there. How did that unfold?

AG: When it was clear that this small operation was successful the Rotary agreed to design, construct, and significantly finance additional facilities. Skilled people from

Eden Gardens, St. James, and Rotary built an intake room, a mini-pharmacy, and five examining rooms. Since then two more examining rooms and a dental facility have been added. And Dr. Dick has attracted the highest caliber of volunteers from our North County cities. These include doctors, nurse practitioners, nurses and administrators, as well as specialists such as surgeons and anesthesiologists who will accept referrals free of charge.

NF: It’s easy to see your respect and affection for Dr. Wheelock. Do you still spend a lot of time together?

AG: Four of us play bridge together every Thursday afternoon. In fact, I’ll see him at 2:00 today. Dr. Dick is most happy when he wins and collects a dollar from the losers.

NF: Anything else you’d like to add?

AG: Yes. A direct message to him: Dr. G. Richard Wheelock, you have many friends from patients of yesteryear, at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, the Del Mar Rotary, and St. James and St. Leo Medical and Dental Health Programs. And our prayers are with you.

Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 15

Left: The Beach from North Bluffs. Right: A view from North Bluffs. Photos Bill Morris

deL mAr commuNITY cALeNdArhighlights for decemBer 2013

This month’s calendar was compiled by Shelby Weaver, a Torrey Pines high School Junior.

Del Mar Farmer’s Market: Every Saturday, 1-4 p.m. City Hall parking lot. Purchase fresh, locally grown produce, flowers eggs and many other products.

Del Mar City Council: City Council workshop, Monday, December 2nd, 2:00 p.m, 240 10th street

DMCC: The Lunch Club, Tuesday, December 3rd, noon-1:30 p.m. - Reservations & prepayment required. 858-792-7565 or dmcc@dmcc.cc

DMVA History Committee Monthly Meeting: Tuesday, December 3rd, 5:00 p.m. 1104 Camino Del Mar Ste. 1

DMCC: Holiday Tea, Cookie Exchange, and Food Drive for Holiday Baskets, Wednesday, December 4th 2:00-4:00 p.m. St Peter’s Church. Reservations are required #858.755-1616

DMF : Board Meeting, Thursday, December 5th, 8:00 a.m., Del Mar Community Building

Del Mar Library: Bridge Club, experience necessary. Thursdays, 1:00 p.m.

DMF First Thursdays: Thursday, December 5th, Chris Montgomery & Michael Ruhl: Holiday music - Del Mar Powerhouse Community Center, 7:00 p.m. We are sorry, but this series is currently sold out.

Del Mar Library: Cross stitich with Jill Cary. Create a handcrafted holiday gift. Registrtion required. Saturday, December 7th, 10:00 a.m. For teens and adults.

DMVA: Holidays in the Heart of the Village, Saturday, December 7th, 2:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. –West corner of Camino del Mar/15th St. and Del Mar Plaza.

Del Mar Art Center: “Red Tag” Sale! Saturday and Sunday, December 7th and 8th 11:00-6:00 at the

DMAC. Great artwork at great prices just in time for the holidays!

DMCC: Encinitas Shopping Trip on the DMCC van Monday, December 9th – 9:30 a.m-1:00 p.m – Reservations required- (858) 792-7565

Del Mar City Council: Meeting, Monday, December 9th, 6:00 p.m. - 240 10th St.

DM Planning Commission: Monthly meeting, Tuesday, December 10th, 6:00 p.m. 240 10th St.

DMF: Cultural Arts Committee Meeting, Wednesday, December 11th, 8:30 a.m., Del Mar Powerhouse Community Center

DMVA: Santa by the Sea—Sunday December 15th and Saturday, December 21st, L’Auberge Amphitheater in downtown Del Mar. Time TBA

DMF: Children’s Committee Meeting Holiday Party, Sunday, December 15th, 2:00 p.m., Del Mar Powerhouse Community Center. –Holiday craft plus special performance by SD Junior League Theater of “Jingle ARRGH The Way!”- Refreshments. Reservations required at www.delmarfoundation.org

Del Mar Historical Society: Meeting, Tuesday, December 17th, 5:00 p.m., 225 9th St.

DMVA: Design Committee Meeting, Wednesday, December 18th, 11:00 a.m., 1104 Camino del Mar #1

Design Review Board Meeting: Wednesday, December 18th, 6:00 p.m., 240 10th St.

Del Mar Library: PJ Story Time—wear your PJ’s to the library for story time! Wednesday, December 18th, 6:30 p.m.

St. Peter’s Church: Carols, Tuesday, December 24th, 10:30 p.m.-11:00 p.m.

Del Mar Rose Society: Monthly meeting, Thursday, December 26th, 6:30 p.m., 1658 Coast Blvd.

DMCC: ROMEO Men’s Lunch Club: Tuesday, December 31st – 12:00 noon - Sbicca Bistro, 215 15th. $10 includes lunch and tip. Reservations & prepayment required. 858-792-7565 or dmcc@dmcc.cc

Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 16

Painting Frederick Warren Freer, Mother and Child Reading,

Montgomery Museum Of Fine Arts. Google Images.

Google Images

Photo Tony Corso

No IdLe IdLINgDr. Bruce Bekkar MD | Del Mar Sustainability Advisory Board

The Del Mar Sustainability Advisory Board recently took a decisive step to

impede vehicle idling in the City of Del Mar. It managed, via an existing ordinance, to have the City adopt anti-vehicle idling regulations and designate appropriate signs forbidding prolonged vehicle idling. The Board successfully lobbied for signs at locations where idling is excessive: at Powerhouse Park and taxi stands on 15th street- and requested further signage in the beach area at the end of west-facing streets. Care was taken in the design of the signs as well as their placement so they would be informative without being too noticeable or obscuring views.

The remaining, and greater challenge, is to determine how the action will be enforced. In the future one can expect more regulations to be recommended and adopted by the City Council to preserve a healthy and flourishing environment.

Leaving our cars parked with the engines running produces air pollution, and contributes to problems like smog and global warming-- all of which are extremely harmful to our health. Vehicle exhaust contains air toxins and fine particles associated with increased incidence of respiratory ailments, heart disease and serve as a greater cancer risk.

Stopping unnecessary vehicle idling is one relatively easy way to contribute to improved air quality and respiratory health.

Book corNerreading on the runBrooke Eisenberg-Pike | Hoska Drive

I do love books. Just thinking about “curling up

with a good book” makes me feel all cozy and warm. But I must admit that I have become lazy, too lazy to curl up. What with Netflix, Sirius Radio and my DVR I have been getting an entertainment overload. My reading has suffered. I heard a commercial for Audible.com and I thought that if I could listen to a book while I walk my dogs, do housework or garden I might enjoy a new kind of “reading” experience.

It is not quite the same as reading but it is certainly satisfying and plays right into my need to multitask.

After listening to a book I can’t say I have read it, but I have enjoyed a performance. I grew up having stories read to me by my mother, always begging for more. And yes, I did grow up listening to the radio as a young child. So I guess I am the perfect candidate for listening to books. I have only been doing this for a few months and am now onto my fifth book. If you haven’t tried it you might be surprised at what an enjoyable experience it is.

Tree TrAShINg

Your trash pick-up service from Waste Management schedule changes due to the holidays.

Christmas Day - and New Years Day

Both Christmas Day and New Years Day fall on Wednesday.

Monday and Tuesday of that week trash will be picked up as usual, however, the rest of the week will be delayed by one day.

Holiday Trees are collected curbside for the first two weeks following Christmas on your regular collection day. Trees taller than six feet must be cut in half. Please remove all decorations including tinsel, lights, ornaments and tree stands. Flocked trees cannot be recycled so they will be collected with your trash. A tree drop off location will also be provided at the city’s public works yard the first three weeks following the holiday.

Next “Drop Off Event” will be January 18, 2014, 9 am - 12:00 pm at City Hall Upper parking lot. Check the city’s website for details about what you can drop off that morning.

Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 17

www.dmcc.cc | (858) 792-7565 | heather@dmcc.cc | P.O. Box 2947, Del Mar, CA 92014

decemBer 2013

As the days get shorter and darker you may find it more challenging to feel

grateful. Helen Russell, spiritual creative, writer, and photographer, teaches us how to find sunshine as we transition to autumn.

1. Commit.

Starting a gratitude journal requires commitment. Gratitude doesn’t seem to come as easily as grumbling does, and you will likely resist this exercise at first.

2. Begin.

Sit down with pen and paper or at your computer and start, “I am grateful for …” Maybe you will have to stop there for a minute and wait because you just can’t think of anything. But just wait.. Something inside you will shift. The words will come.

3. Write it down.

There is just something about the energy that seems to surround the written list that sets it apart.

4. Choose a set time of day.

You may want to do this when you first wake in the morning or late at night before you go to sleep.

5. Practice present-moment gratitude.

As you move through your day, pause now and then when you recognize something beautiful or a kind gesture and say “I am grateful.”

6. Share the gratitude.

Partner with someone. You will keep each other going and that sense of obligation to that person will give you the push you need to write your list on those days when it just seems too hard.

7. Allow yourself to be human.

Grumble if you must. Miss the odd day here and there. Write “I am grateful I am writing my gratitude list” five times if you can think of nothing else. Then get back in the groove.

Your best awaits you!

Del Mar Community Connections expresses our gratitude the members of the Winston School Student Council and Parents’ Group for providing our residents with Thanksgiving turkeys. Our community continues to thrive with your generous support!

Featured in photo: Nancy Weare, DMCC Founder, Torrey Hazelquist, President, Haven Johnson, Representative, Katarina Young, Vice President, Brandon Daly, Representative, and Jenelle Zingg, DMCC Program Manager

dmcc decemBer eVeNT hIghLIghTDMCC Holiday Tea, Cookie Exchange, and Food Drive for Holiday Baskets

Wednesday, December 4th 2- 4pm. St. Peter’s Church. 334 14th St. Delicate nibbles, music, and aromatic tea. Transportation is available in the City of Del Mar. Reservations are required.

Guest Bartender Night at Sbicca!

Wednesday, December 11th at 5pm. Join friends and neighbors to celebrate the Dog Days of December! Sbicca 215 15th St. We will be collecting dog paraphernalia (leashes, collars, etc.) for the dogs at Rancho Coastal Humane Society.

Encinitas Shopping Trip on the DMCC Van

Mon, December 9th – 9:30 am to 1 pm –Reservations required. 858-792-7565 or dmcc@dmcc.cc.

UTC Shopping Trip on the DMCC Van

Thurs, December 19th – 9:30 am to 1 pm –Reservations required. 858-792-7565 or dmcc@dmcc.cc.

Del Mar Day with Dave Roberts

Fri, December 20th - 3-5pm- Office hours the third Friday of the month (DMCB). Call 619-531-5533 to schedule a meeting.

ROMEO Men’s Lunch Club

Tues, December 31st - 12 noon - Sbicca Bistro, 215 15th. $10 includes lunch and tip. Reservations & prepayment required. 858-792-7565 or dmcc@dmcc.cc.

Sandpiper Winter 2013 Page 18

Standard MailU.S. Postage

PAIDEncinitas, CAPermit No. 5

SANDPIPERDEL MAR’S COMMUNITY JOURNAL

Box 2177, Del Mar, CA 92014

DATED MATERIAL

VISIT The SANdPIPer oNLINe!This month’s complete issue plus web exclusives, colored pix, photo essays, useful links, alerts, and much more!

www.delmarsandpiper.org

Common App. Google Images.

roVINg TeeN rePorTercollege App ZappedLeila Zein-Phillison | Torrey Pines High School Senior

“If I could describe my mix of emotions about applying to college I’d say “nerve-wracking’.” I am applying to

a place where I might spend the next 4 years of my life; supposedly the best 4 years. It’s like an end of a chapter with a cliff hanger where the unknown is discovered in the next chapter,” said Max.

San Dieguito Union High School District seniors have begun the emotional college application process. Some have already been accepted or rejected, while others are still deciding which prompt to choose for their essay.

“Everyone is working at their own pace, but I think it’s fair to say everyone is either stressed or anxious even if they have been accepted somewhere,” shared Amanda.

For those who have not received their first acceptance letter, the question, “what if I don’t get in anywhere?,” remains.

“We live in a time where colleges are super selective and everyone is smart. You need something to set you apart from the crowd” said Megan adding, “My parents aren’t divorced, I have functioning and intact limbs, I have not found a cure for cancer, but I still want to go to college.”

A growing number of colleges are stepping away from the standardized exams traditionally required of applicants. According to the National Center for Fair & Open Testing, commonly known as FairTest, more than 800 colleges and universities across the country no longer require score submissions from SAT or ACT.

“I don’t think it’s fair for an application to be brushed aside solely because of scores. Some people aren’t good multiple

choice testers, but could still be the next Steve Jobs or Albert Einstein,” said Rachel.

This year technical malfunctions with the Common Application, an online application portal used by over 500 hundred colleges and universities, elevated the stress level for many high school students or rather has been ‘“a pain in the app.”

“The Common Application web browser has randomly crashed. I have spent un-productive hours refreshing a page. Honestly it’s scary and stressful,” stated Nicole with

frustration.

The Common App which has been around for over 30 years and has made the college application process easier for a generation of students came out with a new version of its software on August 1st. The new version featured software that was plagued with problems ranging from formatting to a complete failure to submit an application.

Because of the numerous Common App software related problems, a number of colleges and universities rolled back their early admission deadlines and have assured students that they will not be penalized for technical failures of the Common App.

California UC and State schools each have their own separate application processes. Both applications have deadlines of November 30th. Before March prospective students to the California schools will be will be contacted with letters of acceptance or rejection.

“No one can help me with this process. For once in my life it’s all about me and what I have done thus far. All I can do is hope I’ve done what it takes to get in to a school that is right for me,” said John.