March 15, 2013 On the Internet at www.MissionValleyNews.com Volume VII – Number 3

See Qualcomm page 14

By Jeremy Ogul

A fter five years and $4.75 million in attorneys’ fees, the city of San Diego failed to convince a judge that a Texas-

based oil company deliberately dragged its feet in cleaning up the soil and groundwater pollution it caused in Mission Valley. U.S. District Court Judge Michael M. Anello found that the city’s case against Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, which owns the fuel

tanks next to Qualcomm Stadium, was so weak a jury trial would not be necessary. Claiming that Kinder Morgan failed to clean up leaks from its fuel tanks in a timely and efficient fashion, the city sought $246 million in real estate and restoration damages. “The Court enters judgment in favor of Kinder Morgan not because doubt exists that Kinder

Grantville Flooding Issues Tabled for Two YearsBy Dave Schwab

G rantville’s flooding issues are on the city’s “to do” priority list –

they’re just not at the top, according to Bill Harris of the City of San Diego’s Storm Water Division. Harris addressed Navajo Community Planners, Inc. at the advisory group’s February meeting about longstanding storm water problems. “Your community made the top 10, meaning you’re in the top level of priority channels to be fixed as soon as we can,” said Harris. Three other projects are ahead of Grantville, which, Harris estimated, “will not be done until fall 2015 at the earliest.” Harris said flood control in the upper portion of Adobe Hills will likely be finished during the latter part of 2014. Flood control projects in Sorrento Valley, the Tijuana River Valley and Murphy Canyon will precede Adobe Hills, he added. Harris said segment-by-segment flood-control projects can only be done so quickly given fiscal and personnel restraints. That, he said, is complicated by ever-increasing environmental regulation that adds to projects’ cost and duration. Harris said potential flood-control projects undergo rigorous scrutiny justifying their need as well as their impact on the surrounding environment. “You’ve got to show that the work

By Dave Schwab

The Mission Valley Planning Group received good news at its March meeting: Funding is in this year’s

city budget to begin the long-awaited update of their community plan. The planning group, which advises the city on land-use and related issues, also was briefed March 6 by Jim King of the California Coastal Conservancy (CCC) on long-term plans to create a trail connection linking Mission Valley with Serra Mesa. Additionally, planner Elizabeth Leventhal suggested the group form a new subcommittee dealing with issues surrounding homelessness. But the planning group, after lengthy debate, decided homelessness was too narrow a focus and opted instead to create a broader-based subcommittee dealing with public health, safety and welfare.

While the formation of a subcommittee that would help confront difficult social issues was a positive step forward

for the group, the fact that the community plan would be updated after almost thirty years was even better news. San Diego senior planner Brian Schoenfisch told the group the community plan

See plan page 12See flooding page 3

Staying True to

your food at Fashion

Valley.Page 6

City to Update Mission Valley Plan

Kinder Morgan Prevails in City’s Qualcomm Stadium Suit

Photo by Miguel Rico

Mesa College gets a new

vice president.Page 4

The beat goes on for San

Diego jazz.Page 9

Page 2 MissionValleyNews.com — March 15, 2013

By Gina Cord, founder of Mission Valley News

Valley ViewsGINA’S

Happy Hour in Mission Valley

LocaL News

Rent Sense:Respect Your Neighbors

Life is hard enough. Who needs a neighbor that comes home late and cranks up the volume on the television or stereo; has a barking dog when left alone; children that run and scream; loud parties and frequent visitors that gather for world soccer matches in the middle of the night? Now, of course neighbors can be wonderful. We all have good neighbor stories that make us smile or cause us to remember with gratitude. Sometimes it is a neighbor that becomes a hero when disaster occurs. Here’s the thing. Neighbors are people and interactions (especially when there’s close proximity and frequency) take effort, can be messy, sometimes even frustrating and occasionally more than we can handle without help. All of this is true whether you rent or own; whether you share fences or walls; driveways or hallways, and there are no shortcuts to daily effort. Often when a potential renter is walking the property and interviewing the manager/owner there are questions asked that can’t or shouldn’t be answered by any trained housing professional or liability concerned landlord. Here’s a sample: “Do you have young children in this community?” “Any college students live in this building?” “What can you tell me about my neighbors?” So, what’s wrong with such questions? Here’s a short list: • An apartment community and individual rentals are required to adhere to housing policies that do not discriminate

By Neil Fjellestad and Chris De Marco, FBS Property Management

against neighbors that belong to protected classes as dictated by federal, state and local fair housing laws.• Most of the types of questions that are posed about neighbors are discriminating under these laws even if these questions are motivated by honest concern or innocent curiosity.

• A landlord or his/her representative that entertain such questions and/or seek to placate the potential renter with an answer to further the leasing process has participated in a discriminatory practice and has incurred potential liability under Fair Housing.• There is a separate but equally important matter of privacy. Any information that could be shared about a neighbor has been gained due to a business relationship that maintains stiff consumer protection due to a fiduciary relationship that is implied. • This includes a duty of confidentiality that is heightened by the protected financial credit and other personal information that a housing consumer entrusts with the rental owner/manager. Keep in mind that having good neighbors is often the result of being a good neighbor. Let’s remember that there are no shortcuts and more effort is required than is convenient at the time.

We know lots of workers love to stop in at a convenient location for happy hour after a long day’s work. One that is just around the corner

is King’s Fish House, located at 825 Camino de la Reina in the heart of Mission Valley. Happy hour is from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday in the bar and patio area. The portions are so large you may not even want dinner. Oyster Shooters (3) with cocktail sauce and fresh horseradish are $4.75; “Killer” Fish Tacos (3) are $5.95; Buffalo Chicken Wings (8) are $7.25; Bar Burger (regular size) with your choice of toppings is $7.50. The burger is a very good size and served

with fries. There are many other menu items, but this will give you an idea. For a refreshing cocktail you could choose one of the King’s Cocktails: The Hurricane, which is a Louisiana Classic; Frozen Rum Punch with a secret kick; or a Desert Pear Margarita comprising Cuervo Gold and cactus pear juice serve on the rocks for $6. You can order draft beer in a 16-ounce pint $3.25 or a craft-brewed 16-ounce pint for $4.75. Well drinks (and they serve the best brands) are $1.50 off, and your choice of Stone Cellar Chardonnay, Merlot or Cab at $4.25 each. King’s Fish House has been in the same location at Westfield’s Mission Valley West Shopping Center for 12 years. All of the food is extremely well prepared, starting with the warm sourdough bread and an extensive menu containing every type of seafood dish prepared any way you desire. The menu changes daily depending on what fresh seafood is available. Manager Jerry Spillane or the extra-special server will help you decide. As an option to seafood, the restaurant also serves chicken, sandwiches, steaks, salads,

and of course, desserts, most of which are created from scratch in the kitchen. The King Signature Group started in Long Beach and now has about 15 different restaurants. Only one other restaurant is in San Diego at Lou & Mickey’s in the Gaslamp Quarter, but you’ll enjoy returning time after time to the Mission Valley location, where you can dine inside or on the huge patio.

For more information, visit www.kingsignaturegroup.com or call (619) 574-1230.We welcome What’s News and Who’s News for this column… Call Gina at (619) 683-2434.

MissionValleyNews.com — March 15, 2013 Page 3LocaL News

2111 Camino del R io s. in mission valley • 619.297.4366 • www.fumcsd.org

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Palm Sunday • March 248, 9:30, 11 am • palm processional

adult & children’s choirs

9:30 am • The Water’s edge • the cove

contemporary • intimate • band

Wednesday Vespersweekly at 5:30 pm • communion

Holy Thursday • March 287:30 pm • draping of the cross • communion contemporary singers, orchestra & organ

Good Friday • March 2912:10 pm • music meditation 11:45 am

Easter Vigil • March 30Saturday, 6:30-7:30 pm • music • stories

activities • prayer stations • sacraments

Easter Sunday • March 318, 9:30, 11 am

choir, brass, timpani & organ

9:30 am • The Water’s Edge • the cove

contemporary • intimate • band

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will restore the channel to the capacity it’s supposed to have,” he said, adding “studies have to be put together that validate what happens when we touch these channels.” Hydrology (engineering), biology (plants and animals), noise and cultural resources (archaeology) are among the factors considered in environmental studies, according to Harris. “The water quality in the channel segment has to be documented before, during and after flooding showing what impacts we have,” said Harris. Environmental regulations require the area disturbed by flood-control improvements to be compensated for by improving the natural character of some other area. Alternative sites for environmental mitigation, Harris said, are becoming “less and less” over time and “scant and slim pickings.” “We’re looking for partnerships in open-space areas and the San Diego River,” he added. NCPI board member

Flooding, from page 1 Jay Wilson of Del Cerro asked if it’s possible to change projects on the city’s flood-control priority list. “Isn’t there anything we could do to get Grantville moved up, given the impacts to the businesses and the economy and the floating cars [from flooding] we have to show for it?” he asked. “Nothing short of additional funding or council action,” replied Harris. Concerning addressing Grantville flooding, NCPI board member Dan Smith of Grantville commented, “The longer this goes, the more specialists come out,” he said, noting this adds to the cost and time it’s taking to solve the problem. Harris agreed, noting the problems flooding brings are significant. “Flooding is absolutely disastrous for water quality,” he said, adding it’s also a recurring problem because “we know vegetation we clear from channels is going to grow back.” Harris said he was willing to return to NCPI in May to answer

more questions about Grantville flooding and to update the group on the latest developments at the city with funding and planning.In other action:

• Two local residents, Ann Larson and Charles Willkomm, expressed concern that a stop sign and/or other safety improvements need to be made at the intersection of Cowles Mountain Boulevard and Boulder Lake Avenue, an increasingly busy staging area for people hiking the backside of Cowles Mountain.“My biggest fear is that one of my children is going to get hit by a car,” said Larson. “Someone is going to get run over or killed,” said Willkomm, noting visibility at the increasingly dangerous intersection, which saw a recent major crash in which victims had to be cut out of their car by firefighters, is obscured by parked cars. NCPI chair Anthony Wagner agreed to put the issue on the group’s March agenda.• After lengthy debate, NCPI voted

overwhelmingly in favor of writing a letter supporting Kensington-Talmadge Planning Group’s (Ken-Tal’s) CalTrans grant application for Community-Based Transportation Planning. The planning proposed under the application covers Fairmount Avenue with emphasis on multi-modal access to the Grantville Trolley station and the I-8 & Mission Gorge/Fairmount interchange. Ken-Tal’s request for NCPI to join it and two other local planning groups to lobby for pedestrian and bike improvements providing greater access to Grantville trolley was deferred until further group review and March’s group meeting.• After NCPI members

were satisfied the project would not present problems with parking or noise and be an aesthetic improvement, the group voted unanimously to endorse the city of San Diego, Public Works Department’s proposal to construct a new 7-million-gallon-per-day (MGD) pump station at the existing College Ranch Hydro Pump Station in San Carlos at 8719 Ashmere Dr. The existing pump station is reaching the end of its useful life and has been in service since 1967, supplying water to the San Carlos Community for daily use as well as fire protection.

NCPI will next meet Monday, March 18, at 7 p.m. at Zion Community Church, 4880 Zion Ave.

Mission Valley Winner Three participants in Ronald McDonald House Charities of San Diego’s Dream House Raffle are receiving a total of $40,000 worth of prizes in the first of three early bird drawings designed to reward participants who purchase a $150 ticket early in the raffle period. Devinder Chopra of Mission Valley, Bradley Petersen of Santee and Marialyn Sardo of Carmel Valley were selected as early bird winners and are still eligible to win the grand prize – a $3.2 million Rancho Santa Fe home or $1.6 million cash. As early bird winners, Chopra can either choose a 2013 Toyota Prius or $25,000 cash; Petersen gets a Sea-Doo Speedster or $10,000 cash; and Sardo has a choice between a Vespa Motor Scooter or $5,000 cash.. More than 100 prizes are available through the Dream House Raffle, but the main attraction is a 7,700 square-foot home with golf course views. The five-bedroom house also features a 1,500

bottle wine room, outdoor kitchen with built-in barbeque, custom rim flow pool and spa, and spacious casita with separate bedroom, living room, bathroom and kitchenette. All it takes for a chance to win is a $150 raffle ticket, available until May 3. To enter, call 888-824-9939 or visit www.sdraffle.com. Go to the website for a complete list of raffle rules and prizes. “The raffle really is a great way for the Ronald McDonald House to raise money to help us care for families with a critically ill or injured child being treated at local hospitals, and we look forward to awarding prizes to those who support us through buying a raffle ticket,“ said Chuck Day, president and CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities of San Diego. This year, the charity is also offering a chance to win an iPad to anyone who shares raffle information online using a special “Spread the Word” button on www.sdraffle.com.

Page 4 MissionValleyNews.com — March 15, 2013BusiNess News

MOVERS & SHAKERS Medical professionals who care for patients with allergies, asthma and immunologic disorders now have access to The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice, a new peer-reviewed publication. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) announced the launch of JACI: In Practice, a journal devoted to presenting the best clinical research and practical management recommendations in allergy/immunology.

Michael Schatz,MD, MS, FAAAAI, a past president of the AAAAI, has been named editor in chief of the new journal. Schatz

is a current member and former chief of the Department of Allergy at Kaiser Permanente in San Diego. He is also a clinical professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of California, San Diego. “JACI: In Practice covers the spectrum of diseases treated by the allergist/immunologist, with an emphasis on information that is practical for clinicians,” said Schatz. “This information can be used in everyday practice or help in acquiring the latest knowledge or skills that can be directly applied to patient care.” Joining Schatz in this endeavor are deputy editor Robert Zeiger, MD, PhD, FAAAAI, and associate editor Scott Sicherer, MD, FAAAAI. Zeiger is director of Allergy Research at Kaiser Permanente in San Diego, and also a clinical professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of California, San Diego. Sicherer is Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, Division of Allergy/Immunology in New York, NY.

SDDL President Sworn In On Jan. 26, Neil Dymott senior associate Benjamin J. Howard was sworn in as president of the San Diego Defense Lawyers (SDDL) at the 29th Annual Installation Dinner. Howard served on the board of directors for 2010, was elected treasurer in 2011 and vice president in 2012.

Neil Dymott shareholder Stephen T. Sigler was sworn in as treasurer for 2013 and associate M. Todd Ratay will be a continuing member of the 2013 Board of Directors. The SDDL board of directors is composed of a cross-section of the defense bar, representing a makeup of large and small defense firms. Board members have many years of litigation

experience in a wide range of fields. Directors meet monthly to discuss issues pertinent to the

defense practice and plan events. Neil Dymott attorneys who have been honored to serve as past presidents include Robert W. Frank and Clark R. Hudson. SDDL is an organization of lawyers engaged in the defense of civil litigants. The objectives of the organization are: to provide a forum for mutual education through the exchange of ideas with counsel in San Diego County; to promote cordial relations among its members; to promote improved public perception of its members through service to the community and to maintain the standards of professional conduct.

Tax Specialist Named Entrepreneur of the Year Tax specialist Jeremy Dutson, a CPA with Abbas, Jenson & Cundari CPAs, was chosen to receive the 2012 Entrepreneur of the Year award by the Mind Masters business development organization.

The first of the Mind Masters quarterly strategy sessions was held Jan. 7 at the Handlery Hotel in Mission Valley. At the annual summit, founder Barbara Eldridge honored entrepreneurs who have demonstrated extraordinary focus, vision and growth for their business in the previous 12 months. Dutson was recognized for confronting his biggest challenge, transforming his business to grow. While handling clients, he worked at developing systems and procedures to raise the bar for himself and work toward the outstanding vision he has for the future of his business. He is always learning and continues his

commitment to taking on new challenges. Since 1991, Mind Masters has been a business development organization for entrepreneurs to master the challenges faced in an ever-changing marketplace. In a think-tank like environment, small business owners support each other in being focused and accountable to the strategies they’ve set for their goals. A value-based program, it encourages, motivates and challenges business owners to harness the power of each member’s success, make wise business decisions and realize their dreams.

New VP at San Diego Mesa College Dr. Julianna Barnes is the new Vice President of Student Services for San Diego Mesa College. She officially began her position Feb. 20, just in time to celebrate the opening the college’s $45.8 million Student Services Center on Feb. 25. “The timing for Dr. Barnes’ arrival could not have been more perfect,” said Dr. Pamela T. Luster, president. “Julianna

brings a wonderful enthusiasm for students and a wealth of experience to Mesa. We now have a state-of-the art facility and the leadership team we need to become a nationwide model for student learning and success.” Barnes is responsible for 20 departments, services and functions. These include: admission and records, counseling, evaluation and assessment, financial aid, disability services and programs, student affairs, the career and transfer centers, student health services, high school and

Dr. Michael Schatz

Benjamin J. Howard

Stephen T. Sigler

M. Todd Ratay

Jeremy Dutson

Dr. Julianna Barnes

MoVeMent in san diego’s business coMMunity

MissionValleyNews.com — March 15, 2013 Page 5

CATCH US OnlInE AT:www.MissionValleynews.com

BusiNess News

community outreach, and more. “I am so proud to join a dedicated team of student services professionals who now work together in a central location and in turn, are able to support students more comprehensively and collaboratively than ever before,” said Barnes. Barnes comes to Mesa College following a two-year term as vice president of student services at Cuyamaca College. Prior to that, she held a variety of positions in higher education, including serving as dean of student development and matriculation at San Diego City College and as dean of student affairs and matriculation at San Diego Miramar College. City, Mesa and Miramar colleges are all a part of the San Diego Community College District. A native San Diegan, Barnes received her doctorate in educational leadership with a community college specialization from San Diego State University; her master’s in education with an emphasis in multicultural counseling, also from SDSU, and her bachelor’s in sociology with a minor in teacher education from UCSD. Professionally, Barnes serves as an affiliated member of the doctoral faculty at San Diego State University. She has published articles and presented at the local, state and national levels on topics such as the First-Year Experience and Student learning outcomes assessment in

community colleges. With student enrollment topping 25,000, San Diego Mesa College is the fastest-growing community college in California and the seventh fastest-growing in the nation. The fully accredited, comprehensive, two-year college offers 180 associate degree and certificate programs. The college’s excellent academic programs cover a wide range of disciplines, making Mesa the number one transfer institution in San Diego. Barnes spent time growing up in the Linda Vista neighborhood where Mesa College is situated. “This is my community college. As a kid I would peek over the fence and imagine going to college someday. It’s like coming home,” she said.

New Hire at RBTK Rosner Brown Touchstone & Keller, LLP, announced its addition of Trent Brown as staff accountant. Brown will be responsible for performing financial statement audits, reviews, and compilations

for clients, as well as preparing client tax returns. In his free time, he enjoys being physically active and leading a healthy lifestyle. Brown played varsity tennis at Rancho Bernardo High School for four years and also played at Point Loma Nazarene. He is an avid billiards player and huge sports fan.

Introducing “The New San Diego 20” San Diego Leadership Alliance (Leadership Alliance), an organization dedicated to developing progressive leadership in San Diego, announced its 20 fellows in this year’s New Leaders Council Institute (NLC Institute). Deemed “The New San Diego 20,” these young professionals will undergo a five-month training program that provides them with skills and relationships to make change in San Diego. The Leadership Alliance hosts the NLC Institute in San Diego, affiliated with the national non-profit New Leaders Council, which holds institutes in cities across the nation. This year’s program in San Diego includes local experts who volunteer to share their knowledge in communications, political organizing, fundraising and policy. The 2013 NLC Institute fellows includes Sadie Brinton, Program Associate, The San Diego Foundation; Caroline Epps, Director of Policy and Partnerships, LifeSTEPS USA; Wyn Furman, Manager,

Community Research, The San Diego Foundation; Charles Gillig, Skadden Fellow/Staff Attorney, Casa Cornelia Law Center; Rebekah Hook, Public Policy Assistant, Collaborative Services, Inc.; Cody Hooven, Senior Environmental Specialist, Port of San Diego; Jessica Lawrence, Associate, LeSar Development Consultants; Mark Leo, Community Worksite Organizer, SEIU Local 221; Erubey Lopez, Attorney, The Law Office of Erubey Lopez; Carolina Martinez, Policy Advocate, Environmental Health Coalition; Barbara Moreno, Web Content Specialist, Port of San Diego; Sandy Naranjo, Organizer, United Food and Commercial Workers – Local 135; Jessica L. Nare, Supervisor, Youth Leadership Programs, Jewish Family Service of San Diego; Jacqueline Palmer, Director of Practice Development, The Moore Firm; Kayla Race, Policy Advocate, Environmental Health Coalition; Paul Richardson, Pharmacy Intern Coordinator, CVS Caremark; Pari Ryan, Legislative Coordinator, San Diego Housing Commission; Kimberly Simms, Founding Attorney, Law Office of Kimberly R. Simms; Ali Tarzi, AVP of Classes

& Coaching, Community HousingWorks; and Gena Truitt, Veterans Advocate, Interfaith Community Services.

Hall of Champions Names New President Mike McDowell, former CEO of Balboa Park Celebration, Inc., was named president of the San Diego Hall of Champions (SDHOC). He was selected by the SDHOC Executive Committee of the Board of Directors. McDowell, who has been CEO of the San Diego Lodging Industry Association for the past decade, recently stepped down after a one-year stint as an executive on loan to the 2015 Centennial Celebration. “This is an exciting new challenge for me,” said McDowell. “I obviously bleed Balboa Park, and I have a deep admiration for the Hall of Champions, its founder Bob Breitbard, and the role the Hall plays in advancing the many positive ideals of sports throughout our community.” He will also direct the activities of the San Diego Sports Commission.

Do you have news about a new hire, promotion or award? Send an email to editor@missionvalleynews.com.

Trent Brown

Page 6 MissionValleyNews.com — March 15, 2013DiNiNg

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The food revolution is here to stay. I’m happy to see places, such as True Food Kitchen, opening up and doing well. True Food serves fresh, gluten-free, local and organic ingredients that taste good and are supposed to make you feel whole. I read the book before I saw the food, and while the book was way longer than the menu, both offer delicious lunch, brunch and dinner varieties that promote the diner’s wellbeing. Walking in, guests are greeted by fresh herbs planted on large ceramic, elevated tubs. Inside, the space is open and has a

True Food KiTchen Keeps iT simple

By Daniela Louzada Esteves

cafeteria-like feel without the terrible fluorescent lighting – think IKEA meets cool, downtown San Diego lounge. Lighting is an extremely important part of dining out and it surprises me when great places miss that detail. At True Food Kitchen, the lighting and atmosphere is just right. Friendly servers are dressed in yoga attire while the kitchen staff takes center stage. With the restaurant’s open floor design, the kitchen is bared for all to see so you can watch your food being made and know exactly what’s in your chosen dish.

I tried the Tuscan Kale Salad with lemon, parmesan and bread crumbs, which I thought lacked texture, but compensated with great flavors. All meals except the house-made, gluten free, turkey lasagna can be ordered as half portions. The smaller portions are meant to promote healthier eating habits. I also ordered the Red Chili Shrimp with sesame noodles, a perfect blend of taste and spice served with gai-lan spinach and shitake mushrooms. The shrimp was grilled to perfection. A great variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic crafty drinks are served. True Food’s signature drink, the Cucumber Citrus Skinny Margarita, will definitely be on my check next time I’m there with a designated driver. Nevertheless, there were plenty of yummy drinks for those stuck behind the wheel. Apple Carrot Ginger Tonic, Oogave Natural Sodas and Antioxidant Blasts called the Medicine Man, a drink

containing sea buckthorn, pomegranate, cranberry, black tea and soda. For dessert I recommend the Dairy Free Organic Chocolate Pudding served with walnut & pistachio for two. I couldn’t finish it by myself as it was very rich. My dinner partner ordered the Pomegranate Yuzu sorbet and was very happy with it. It depends on whether you have a sweet or sour tooth. The chocolate pudding fulfilled my sweet craving for the week. True Food offers a concept all restaurants and people should strive for: Healthy and tasty food that is simple and good for you. “Seasonal, Sustainable, Simple, and Pure,” True Food serves fresh ingredients and a new and improved way to dine out. My next trip to the restaurant will be for a healthy lunch during the week. The Fashion Valley Mall location makes this the ideal stop for multi-tasking trips to the mall and healthy lunches.

MissionValleyNews.com — March 15, 2013 Page 7DiNiNg

WhiteRedor

By Karen Irizarry,Certified Sommelier

Everyone will agree life has its special moments. With a life in wine, mine are of course wine related. When I first started, I looked at wine deductively: First by analyzing the typical characteristics of the wine like acidity levels, tannins, etc. and second by deciding what food would pair well with the wine.

After tasting Domaine Zind-Humbrecht Pinot Gris 2010 from Alsace, however, my outlook changed. This particular wine made me forget analytical tactics and changed the way I think about wine.

And while I still analyze wine’s typical characteristics, I now look for a third element – a special quality that can only be described as a feeling or emotion. For me, this is what makes a wine complete.

The Alsace region is located in France near the German border and produces world-renowned white wines. For much of its life, it was part of Germany until it became part of France at the end of World War I. These days the region’s wines offer German varietals with French winemaking.

Alsace has 51 Grand Cru vineyards. Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris and Muscat are considered the noble grape varietals of Alsace and only these may be labeled as Grand Cru if they are grown in such a vineyard. It is the only French appellation to allow the grape varietal to be printed on the label, which many Americans appreciate, as that’s how we market our own wines. Alsace produces delicious food-friendly white wines and has easily become one of my favorite wine regions.

The United States is one of the largest export markets for Alsatian wines and Zind-Humbrecht is considered one of the top 20 wine producers in the

world. You shouldn’t have a problem finding any of its wines on wine lists throughout San Diego or at local wine shops. Prices depend on the grape varietal and vintage, but it’s a name I equate with quality – even in its lower-priced bottlings. Just be wary if Vendange Tardives or Selection des Grains Nobles is written on the label. These are a specialty of Alsace and are late harvest or botrytized wines, respectfully, and will have residual sugar and therefore are not dry, but make excellent complex dessert wines.

I tasted with the winemaker himself, Olivier Humbrecht. He gave firsthand knowledge and details of his wines. I highly recommend Zind-Humbrecht’s Riesling Rangen de Thann Grand

Cru 2008. This was an extraordinary vintage for Alsace as a whole and has great potential for aging. The 2008 vintage had the highest acidity levels in recent history until being surpassed by the 2010. This wine has great acid and development of fruit ripeness. The volcanic soil gives it a flinty, peaty note with a persistent lime citrus acid and salty mineral finish.

Enjoy this versatile wine with a range of foods from spicy Asian dishes to pâté to the Alsatian classic of sole in cream sauce. They are big and full bodied enough to accompany white meats but not too aggressive to compliment more delicate fish dishes. As palates prefer a wider variety of food flavors, this wine can fit the broader food-pairing bill.

Karen Irizarry is a certified sommelier who has worked vintages in Australia and Germany. She is currently working vintage in New Zealand. Read more about her passion for food and wine is reflected in her blog at whiteorred.blogspot.com.

Page 8 MissionValleyNews.com — March 15, 2013

Old Time Glamour at The Lafayette Hotelarts & eNtertaiNtmeNt

By Jen Van Tieghem Some people dream of exotic getaways, but when you live in paradise, it can be just as nice to stay as it is to go. San Diego has such a wide variety of places to visit I wouldn’t be surprised if the term “staycation” originated here in America’s Finest City. We are truly spoiled. For my birthday this year I could think of no better place to celebrate than The Lafayette Hotel, which sits on the border

of University Heights and North Park. The historic building has seen a reawakening over recent years and now sits as a glowing gem on El Cajon Boulevard between Louisiana Street and Mississippi Street. Since it opened in 1946, the hotel has drastically changed along with the city that surrounds it. Originally named “Imig Manor” for owner Larry Imig, it flourished as a getaway for Hollywood stars in

the ‘40s and ‘50s. Later San Diego Charger owner Conrad Hilton bought and renovated the property. Since its heyday, The Lafayette changed hands several times before a major re-imagining took place over the last decade. As it stands now the hotel and its interior boast all the striking features of a luxurious resort hotel. Much of its charm comes from details that celebrate the past yet offer contemporary comforts. The décor is nostalgic and whimsical, from parasols hanging above the lobby to rocking chairs on the patio overlooking the Weissmuller pool. The glamour of those early years shines through with the entire facade looking as if it were plucked from a classic film. I fell in love with the hotel on New Year’s Eve 2011 and have been back a half dozen times since. On this occasion I tried to experience a bit of everything the hotel offers, starting with booking a stay in the main hotel building. After a friend and I settled into our spacious room we headed to Imig’s Kitchen & Bar to grab a cocktail. Sitting on the patio outside the restaurant we admired the nearly-Olympic size pool and watched as guests stopped in to eat or relax. The hotel seems to attract a variety of guests, from out-of-towners avoiding the crowds of downtown or hotel circle to locals wandering over to enjoy the amenities. As beautiful as our surroundings were, we did venture out for some North Park nightlife, of which there is plenty. Some low-key spots nearby

include Live Wire and Gilly’s. But just a short jaunt up to University Avenue offers all kinds of eateries and places to imbibe. URBN Coal Fired Pizza is a personal favorite. Eventually we returned to the hotel for a night cap at The Red Fox Room. The quintessential steakhouse has been around even longer than the hotel itself and is now part of The Lafayette lore sitting in the east wing. The restaurant features more historic details and I’d love to return for a closer look and to stay for a bite. As inviting as the rest of the property, The Red Fox offered a swanky spot to listen to the piano and enjoy a glass of wine – an easygoing wrap up to our night. Dragging ourselves out of the plush beds in the morning was a bit harder, but when we remembered breakfast at Imig’s was waiting, we managed to get down there. The staff at The Lafayette, and especially at this onsite restaurant, never disappoints. They’re always friendly, even first thing on a Sunday morning, and knowledgeable about the menu. Sipping a St. G brunch cocktail (St. Germaine, Champagne,

Kaffir Lime, Soda) and chatting with the waitress in the bright cheerful spot made it easy to feel like I was on vacation a world away from home, instead of just a dozen miles. The Imig’s menu offers a lot of the craft dishes similar to those found at other eateries in the neighborhood. For dinner, I highly recommend the Sesame Crusted Salmon and anything on the “snacks” menu. Overall The Lafayette Hotel is a great spot to visit for a day – preferably a sunny one to enjoy the pool – or a weekend. There’s plenty to do and see onsite, or you can venture to University Heights or North Park for a bite, to take in live music or shop. Room prices are comparable to anything in Hotel Circle, but rooms are larger and the glamorous property is itself a treat to visit. The Lafayette also offer suites that sleep more guests if you bring a large party. I’m already planning a return staycation in a poolside room when the weather heats up. The Lafayette Hotel is located at 2223 El Cajon Boulevard, San Diego. Call (619) 296-2101 or visit www.lafayettehotelsd.com for reservations.

Spring Fun at The Lafayette HotelMarch 16 to April 6 – Spring Break Luaus and Kids Club Series: Saturday nights feature a poolside event for guests ages 12 and up. Includes Polynesian dancers, Hawaiian cuisine and themed drinks. Children ages 5-12 can enjoy face painting, scavenger hunts, hula-hooping and a kids’ dinner buffet. Event is open to locals and hotel guests.

March 15 to April 5 – Dive-In Movies Series: Friday nights feature family-friendly movies shown poolside after 8 p.m. Movies this year include The Goonies, National Lampoon’s Vacation, Ghostbusters and Top Gun, which filmed scenes at The Lafayette.

Visit www.lafayettehotelsd.com for more information.

MissionValleyNews.com — March 15, 2013 Page 9

JAZZMarch 20 & 27, April 3, &10 – Wednesday Jazz with Kice Simko and Friends at Riviera Supper Club. Free. RivieraSupperClub.com

March 15, 22 and 29, April 5 & 12 – Sam Johnson Jazz Duo at Cosmos Coffee Cafe. Free. CosmosCoffeeCafe.com

March 16, 23 & 30, April 6 – Saturday Jazz with George and Alan at Bistro Sixty (formerly San Diego Desserts). Free. www.BistroSixtySD.com

March 20 & 27, April 3 & 10 – Gilbert Castillanos Jazz Jam at Seven Grand. Free. SevenGrandBars.com

March 16 – Vamonos at Winstons. $8. www.winstonsob.com

March 16 – Ian Tordella Trio and Peter Sprague Trio at Dizzy’s. $15 ($10 for students). Www.DizzysJazz.com

March 21 – The David Mosby Quartet at 98 Bottles. $10. www.98BottlesSD.com

March 24 – Women in Jazz at Dizzy’s. $15. www.DizzysJazz.com

CLASSICAL March 16 – Cruzar La Cara De La Luna (To Cross The Face Of The Moon) at the San Diego Civic Center. $35 to $125. www.SDOpera.com

March 22-23 – Kenny G at Copley Symphony Hall. $20 to $70. www.sandiegosymphony.orgMarch 29 – New Orleans Jazz Orchestra

at Copley Symphony Hall. $20 to $85. www.sandiegosymphony.orgApril 12-14 – Brahms’ Violin Concerto at Copley Symphony Hall. $20 to $96. www.sandiegosymphony.org

ALTERNATIvEMarch 16 – Dead Feather Moon and Brothers Weiss at Soda Bar. $10. www.SodaBarMusic.com

March 22 – Misty and The Mobys at Pal Joey’s. Free. www.paljoeysonline.com

March 23 – Lucky & Wild, Owl Paws, and Rob Bondurant at Tin Can Alehouse. $5. Thetincan1.wordpress.com

April 6 – The Heavy Guilt CD Release Show at The Irenic. Price TBD. www.facebook.com/pages/The-Irenic/

PoPMarch 19 – The Torn ACLs, Sundrop Electric, and Golden Beaches at Tin Can Alehouse. $5. Thetincan1.wordpress.com/March 21 – Matt Costa, Carly Ritter, and Sam Outlaw at The Casbah. $15. www.casbahMusic.com

March 21 & 28, April 4 – Greg Shibley at The Westgate Hotel. Free. www.westgatehotel.comhouseofblues.comMarch 30 – Bart Mendoza and True Stoies at Riviera Supper Club. Free. www.rivierasupperclub.com

Bands, venues, and music-lovers: Please submit listings for this calendar by emailing Jen@ScoopSanDiego.com.

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Keeping Jazz Alive in the CityBy Jen Van Tieghem In a city where indie music flourishes with touches of folk, country and soul, it’s hard to figure out where a classic like jazz fits in. Early this year, San Diego’s jazz scene took a major hit when Anthology in Little Italy closed. While the venue featured many different genres, it often showcased local and national jazz acts. Losing Anthology, the quintessential venue for great jazz, begs the question: Can a jazz club in San Diego survive? The answer is a resounding, “Oh yeah,” judging by mainstays Croce’s Jazz Bar downtown and Dizzy’s in Pacific Beach and newcomers North Park’s Seven Grand and 98 Bottles in Little Italy. Variety may just be the key to success for several of these clubs. Offering different genres versus staying rigid to just jazz every night keeps patrons coming back for more – improvisation seems to be more than just a musical technique.

On the other hand, Croce’s may be uniquely situated for its own brand of success, thanks to its downtown location along bustling 5th Avenue. “Its location downtown is its saving grace,” said jazz pianist Ed Kornhauser. “It draws from the admittedly small jazz-loving crowd as well has the regular foot traffic that’ll always be downtown, especially tourists.” Another go-to for jazz for the past 13 years, Dizzy’s, has found a unique way to keep the dream of the scene alive. After moving from

a warehouse location downtown Dizzy’s landed in Pacific Beach. The venue actually shares its space with San Diego Jet Ski Rentals. When the daytime business closes down, jet skis are moved out and the space gets set up for jazz. The venue is also unique in that it is open to all ages – sounds like a good place to get music-appreciation started early. “[The jazz scene] is stronger than ever,” says Dizzy’s owner Chuck Perrin. “Great community of players and lots of young up-and-coming.”

See JaZZ page 10

Photo by Laurent Kramer

Page 10 MissionValleyNews.com — March 15, 2013arts & eNtertaiNmeNt

A newer venue on the jazz music scene is Seven Grand. A sibling to the original location in Los Angeles, this club boasts a wall of whiskey that will make your head

spin. Each Wednesday world-class trumpeter Gilbert Castellanos hosts a jazz jam session at the club featuring extremely talented musicians. He started these sessions 15 years ago and they’ve been held in different venues over the years including the former Ole Madrid, The Onyx Room and El Camino. They’ve been at Seven Grand since December of last year and the natural fit of a laid-back whiskey bar and swanky jazz tunes seems ideal. The rotation of

players at the jam sessions changes throughout the night and resulting in a lively event showcasing lots unique performers. Every other week the music alternates between standard jazz and Latin jazz.

“It’s a way to keep it fresh,” Castellanos said of the varying styles. “There are a lot of great musicians that come through.” The jazz scene is growing, thanks

to a lot of dedicated supporters who respect and appreciate the music, according to Castellanos. “Personally I think there are more places for jazz musicians to play in San Diego than in Los Angeles,” he said. “I’d say the scene is thriving.” Castellanos also notes that San Diego is one of the only major cities that boasts a traditional jazz station with a loyal following. Jazz 88.3 has been on the air for 40 years and is a non-profit and non-commercial radio

station. The station caters to listeners with both established artists and up-and-comers on steady rotation. “Live jazz music is definitely more of a niche market than indie stuff or DJ/club nights,” said Seven Grand booking agent Peter Graves. “But it’s been a niche that’s been around for almost a hundred years, so there is definitely some proven staying power there.” Graves also makes a strong point that the jazz audience is getting younger as are the musicians devoted to this style of music. This reinvigoration adds to the appeal of a place, such as Seven Grand, which offers craft cocktails served by well-dressed bartenders – the jazz jam sessions mesh with this environment and its clientele perfectly. “People want grown-up food, grown-up cocktails, and they want to experiment with some more sophisticated and cerebral music.” he said. “As more people continue to educate their palates, the jazz scene in San Diego will continue to blossom.” Another option for live

Jazz, from page 9 jazz is right across the street from San Diego’s legendary rock club, The Casbah. 98 Bottles is a dynamic space for eating, drinking and socializing. Wander up the stairs in the back, however, and you’re transported into aptly named “Back Room,” which features live music several nights a week. Other restaurants and bars around town host jazz residencies or include jazz in their rotation as well – a positive sign for musicians and fans alike. Some of these include Bistro Sixty, Riviera Supper Club, Cosmos Coffee Cafe, Martinis Above Fourth and Marble Room. Because the jazz following in San Diego isn’t as massive as other cities, these venues have had to find unique ways to keep the music offerings fresh while enticing guests to return. Their dedication and passion for the music is evident in their tireless and creative efforts. Although fans may be mourning Anthology’s loss, they should take heart that the music continues to live in and throughout San Diego. As Kornhauser

said, “There are good players doing good work here, and there’s a small group of people willing to support them. San Diego is not an epicenter for jazz, but it’s thriving on in its own small way.”

All That Jazz98 Bottles2400 Kettner Blvd., #110San Diego, CA 92101(619) 255-7885www.98BottlesSD.com

Croce’s Jazz Bar802 5th Ave.San Diego, CA 92101(619) 233-4355www.Croces.com

Dizzy’s (In the showroom of San Diego Jet Ski Rentals)4275 Mission Bay Dr.San Diego, CA 92109(858) 270-7467www.DizzysJazz.com

Seven Grand3054 University Ave.San Diego, CA 92104(619) 269-8820www.sevengrandbars.com

MissionValleyNews.com — March 15, 2013 Page 11Pets

Like people, cats experience aging on an individual basis. Many cats run into age-related issues between 7 and 10 years old, while most experience these changes by the time they are 12. That said, I have cared for felines in their late teens and early 20s that are medication-free and still behave like

senior caTs – WhaT You should KnoW

By Sari Reis

The Escondido Humane Society’s Paws in the Park dog walk is sure to be a tail-wagging good time – for people and their pets. More than a thousand people and their dogs are expected to take part in the 14th annual walk, which raises funds and awareness for homeless and abandoned animals. Paws in the Park is from 8 a.m. to noon March 24 at Kit Carson Park, 3333 Bear Valley

kittens. As in humans, aging is a natural but complex process and also like humans, most of the conditions that present themselves are controllable. The potential conditions that can occur as your feline companion ages are important for you to be aware of so they can be managed when, and if, your kitty encounters them. One of the preliminary

changes that can occur in an aging cat is a compromised immune system. Dehydration, which is a concern for cats at any age, becomes a greater concern in aging cats. If combined with decreased blood circulation and a diminished immune system, the possibility of liver, kidney and heart complications is greatly enhanced. Diminished blood flow can also cause feline skin to become thinner and less elastic, rendering the cat more prone to infection. As many older cats can become less efficient as self-groomers, the result can be fur that becomes matted causing skin odor, inflammation, and often discomfort. Another concern in aging cats is senility, which often displays by a kitty wandering, meowing excessively, and appearing disoriented. They may try to avoid human contact. As with aging humans, they may experience hearing loss as

well as changes in vision. One of the most common ailments with older cats is dental disease. Although it can start as early as 2 or 3 years of age, it is much more common and dangerous in aging cats causing them considerable pain as well as impairing their ability to eat. If your feline is showing a loss of appetite, be sure to have his teeth and gums checked. Along with dental disease, arthritis is particularly common in older cats so certain accommodations may need to be made, giving them easier access to litter boxes, food and water dishes, etc. Kidney failure is also very widespread in older cats but if diagnosed early, it can be easily managed. Other conditions diagnosed in senior felines are hyperthyroidism, high blood pressure, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease and cancer. Although many of the changes your cat exhibits are part of the normal aging process, it

is important to have your veterinarian examine him at least once a year. In most cases, early detection of a problem makes it more easily treatable and manageable and will ensure your older cat is not experiencing any unnecessary pain. To keep your kitty companion healthy longer, check him over yourself by regularly examining his ears, fur, teeth, skin and checking for lumps and bumps. Brush him daily and give him the highest quality food you can afford. Fresh water daily is a must as is a clean litter box, exercise and lots of love and playtime. You will be amazed at how that can add quality years to his life and yours.

Sari Reis is a Certified Humane Education Specialist and the owner of Mission Valley Pet Sitting Services. For more i nformation you can contact her at (760) 644-0289 or www.missionvalleypetsitting.com.

take tiMe for Paws in tHe Park in escondidoParkway in Escondido. Festivities will begin with registration and a meet and greet at 8 a.m., and the first 1,000 walkers will receive a goodie bag. At 9 a.m., walkers and their canine companions will embark on either a 1.5- or 2.5-mile course. The post-walk celebration gets started at 10:15 a.m. with contests for people and their pets. This year’s contests include a Paw-

parazzi Parade (dress your pooch up as your favorite celebrity) that will be judged by Gloria Winship and Shane Ayon from Animal Actors International and Hoosier Hounds (a basketball game for people and their dogs). There also will be a demonstration by Ballistic Racers Flyball Team, giveaways, an opportunity drawing, games and shopping at the Paw Vendor Expo, which

features more than 50 exhibitors. Masters of ceremonies include Sam Bass from KyXy 96.5, JR from Energy 103.7 and Hula and Dorothy from the AJ Show on Energy 103.7. Sponsors for Paws in the Park 2013 include presenting sponsors Farmers, Nicholas Adamo, Agent, and Morgan Stanley, Joseph S. Adamo CPM; presenting media sponsors San Diego 6; Energy 103.7 and KyXy 96.5; Miramar Kitchen & Bath, Harrah›s Rincon, Acacia Animal Health Center, DogTV, DogVacay.com, latitude33, Rincon, Natural Balance, San Diego County Credit Union, Veterinary Specialty Hospital, Cindy Waasdorp/Prudential California Realty, Petco, San Diego Pets Magazine, Barons Market, San Diego K-9 Security, Westfield, San Diego Foundation, Main Street Media San Diego and Gary Trice, San Diego›s Classic Rocking DJ. Walkers can register online at www.escondidohumanesociety.

org, or they can register on the morning of the event. Registration is free, and all walkers will receive incentive prizes based on dollars raised, starting at $50. For more information, call (760) 888-2235.

Page 12 MissionValleyNews.com — March 15, 2013NewsPlan, from page 1

update is slated to begin next fiscal year after July 1. “There’s some money to get it started – about $100,000,” he said. Schoenfisch said the first step in the community plan update process is to hire a consultant to do an analysis of existing conditions in Mission Valley. The city senior planner promised community participation.“[The city] would develop a public outreach plan having monthly meetings and community workshops throughout the entire process,” Schoenfisch said. One of the first planning steps to be undertaken is to establish a timeline listing key steps in the plan update.“It’s a long process, a

minimum of two years, more likely three or four before plan adoption,” Schoenfisch cautioned. Mission Valley’s community plan hasn’t been updated since 1984. The Mission Valley community is now a regional center of offices, hotels, retail sales and a growing residential community tied together by the San Diego Trolley. Mission Valley’s planning area comprises approximately 2,418 net acres near the geographic center of the city of San Diego within the San Diego River floodplain. The planning area is bounded by Friars Road and the northern slopes of the valley on the north, the eastern banks of the San Diego River on the east, the southern slopes of the valley on the south

and Interstate 5 on the west. After adoption of the East Mission Valley Area Plan in 1963 and preparation of the West Mission Valley Report in 1971, a community plan that unified the east and west and incorporated the entire valley was adopted in 1984. King of CCC and the San Diego River Conservancy gave a slide show presentation updating planners on headway being made in planning for a Serra Mesa-Mission Valley trail connection, a project in which he’s been actively involved since 2007. A major milestone of trail plan development was a feasibility report completed in 2010. King said canyons in Mission Valley from

Old Town in the west to SDSU were evaluated for the possibility of trail development adding “the biggest and best, like Murphy and Murray canyons, were next to the freeway.” “The feasibility study recommended a trail connecting Normal Heights business district with Serra Mesa to the south crossing Interstate 8 and the San Diego River with a segment through the heart of Fenton Parkway community shopping center,” King said. But after property owners held out on selling critical stretches along that proposed trail segment, King said Ruffin Canyon is now the preferred trail segment route. “Ruffin Canyon would

provide access along an urban walk bringing people down to the San Diego River,” King said. “We’re exploring linking that trail with the river and the rail line, so you could take the trolley and then walk up one of the canyons. Once completed, the river trail would create an integrated recreational experience.” King promised to return to the Mission Valley Plan Group in the future to keep them current on planning as the proposed river trail plan linking Serra Mesa with Mission Valley progresses. Mission Valley Planning Group’s next meeting is Wednesday, April 1, at noon in Mission Valley Library’s Community Room, 2123 Fenton Parkway.

Deterring Purse Snatchers IRS: Four Ways to Get Free Tax Assistance

Q: I’m nervous about purse snatchers in parking lots, but I can’t go without a handbag! How can I deter snatchers?

A: This is a great question. I recently posted on the SDPD Eastern’s Facebook a crime where a woman had her purse stolen right out of her shopping cart while she was at Target. It is important to remember that while not all crimes can be prevented, there are ways you can help protect yourself from being a victim. Here are some steps to help prevent your purse from being stolen.

1. Be Aware of your surroundings and people around you.

2. Pay Attention to the “Funny Feeling” or “Gut Feeling” you may

have. In my experience, this feeling is warning you of danger and is usually right. Do not be afraid or embarrassed to react to your “Funny Feeling.” If your “Gut Feeling” is telling you to cross the street or go inside the business trust yourself and do what your “Gut Feeling” is telling you to do.

3. Keep Your Purse Close to you. Shorten the straps so that the purse fit in between your arm and armpit. Do not leave your purse unattended in the shopping cart when you load items into your car. Place your purse inside your car first.

4. Travel Light. Carry the essentials in your purse. Don’t take every credit card you have or checkbook, or social security card. The less you carry the less mess you

will have to straighten out in case your purse does get stolen.

5. Remember You Come Before Your Purse! You are more important than your purse. If a purse snatch does occur, let it go. Do not put your life in any danger by fighting to keep your purse.

6. Report Any Suspicious Activity. If you think someone is loitering around or acting out of the ordinary report it to the police. You are our best eyes and ears! Be safe.

Officer Holland Tafoya SDPD Eastern Division Community Liaison Officer

Have a question or pressing issue for Ask the Cop? Email askthecop@missionvalleynews.com

Many of us need information when preparing our federal income tax returns, like which form to use or how to claim a credit. The IRS offers free information and services to help taxpayers online, by phone and in person. Here are four ways to get the help you need. 1. on the Web. The IRS. gov website is your one-stop federal tax shop. Start here to find tips and information at “1040 Central.” You’ll find information about filing options, the latest news, special topics like identity theft, frequently asked questions and tax forms. You’ll also find a sample of online tools like the Interactive Tax Assistant and Where’s My Refund? 2. on the Phone. You can get free personal tax help by calling 800-829-1040. To order free tax forms and publications call 800-TAX FORM (829-3676). Check the status of your refund 24/7 by calling 800-829-4477. Call the same number to hear taped messages on more than 150 tax topics. These phone services are available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time. Hours of service in Alaska and Hawaii follow Pacific Time.

3. In Your Community. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program helps people who make $51,000 or less prepare and file their tax returns. The Tax Counseling for the Elderly program is a similar service for seniors. Both are free and offered in many local areas. Between January and April visit IRS.gov or call 800-906-9887 for a list of VITA sites near you. To find a TCE or AARP Tax-Aide site during this same period, go to AARP.org or call 888-227-7669 (888-AARPNOW). 4. In IRS Offices. IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers are located in many major cities. IRS employees offer personal assistance with a variety of tax issues. Before you visit, check the IRS website for a list of office locations, and the location-specific business hours and services offered. Visit IRS.gov, click on the “Help & Resources” tab and then click “Contact Your Local IRS Office.” Publication 910, IRS Guide to Free Tax Services, offers more information about free tax help. It is available at IRS.gov or by calling 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676).

MissionValleyNews.com — March 15, 2013 Page 13

Mission Valley library EventsHullabaloo Concert Friday, 10:30 a.m. (March 22)It’s time once again for a visit from the one and only Hullabaloo! Join Steve and his guitar for some fun songs for the whole family. Come early for the best seats — Hullabaloo always packs the house!

Dark Secrets Film Series: Night of the Hunter (1952)Every fourth Wednesday, 6 p.m. (March 27)Good and evil struggle for the souls of innocent children in Charles Laughton’s haunting debut. A smooth-talking, sinister “preacher” (Robert Mitchum) casts his spell over a small town. This lyrical, expressionistic work was Laughton’s first and only directorial effort. With Lillian Gish. Discussion with SDPL film expert Ralph DeLauro to follow.

YogaTuesdays , 6 to 7 p.m. For adults and teens. Learn yoga, an easy to learn workout program that requires little or no equipment and soothes your soul while toning your body.

Zumba BasicMondays, 4 to 5 p.m.Join the Zumba craze! Find out what makes this fun workout such a hit. A towel and bottled water are recommended for our Zumba sessions.

Zumba GoldFridays, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Zumba Gold is a lower impact version of our Zumba Basic class on Mondays, but just as fun! The moves have been carefully designed to be easy to follow by participants of any size or age.

gET inVolVEd!The Mission Valley Planning Group meets at the Mission Valley Library on the first Wednesday of every month at noon. This is a public forum and your chance to voice your opinion. No decisions get to the city council without going through the Mission Valley Planning Group first. The meeting is held in the community room and is accessed from the outside patio on the North side of the building.

Circulation: 15,000. Published 12 times in 2013 and delivered throughout our circula-tion area of Mission Valley, San Diego, California by Mission Publishing Group, LLC. Classified ads and articles must be submitted by mail, e-mail or dropped off at our busi-ness address, 6549 Mission Gorge Road #199, San Diego 92120.Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisements or material submitted which are deemed to be objectionable. Publisher’s liability for errors: Mission Valley News & Views assumes no financial liability for errors nor for omission of copy and upon request will furnish a letter of correction to the advertiser. The Publisher, Mission Publishing Group, LLC., shall not be liable for any error in published advertising unless an adver-tiser proof is requested in writing 12 days prior to publication date and clearly marked for corrections. If the error is not corrected by the Publisher, the liability, if any, shall not exceed the space occupied for the error. Further, the Publisher shall not be liable for any omission of an advertisement ordered to be published. On written request, Publisher shall reschedule and run the omitted advertisement at the advertiser’s cost. All claims for adjustment must be made in writing within 30 days of the date of publication. In no case shall the Publisher be liable for any general, special or consequential damages.

Equal Housing Opportunity: Real estate advertising in Mission Valley News is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Law which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimi-nation.” Mission Valley News & Views will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate that is in violation of the law. This is to notify Mission Valley News readers that all dwellings advertised in Mission Valley News are available on an equal oppor-tunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or TTY at 1-800-927-9275.News and information printed in Mission Valley News is obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but accuracy on information sent to the paper cannot be guaranteed. Articles and opinions of writers or letters to the editor that are submit-ted for publication to the Mission Valley News are the views of the writers and should not be considered the views of the publisher. Content of paid advertisements is solely the responsibility of the advertiser. © 2007–2013, all rights reserved.

EDITORGenevieve A. Suzuki, ext. 121Gen@MissionValleyNews.com

PUBLISHERMission Publishing Group, LLCJim Madaffer, ext. 122Jim@MissionValleyNews.com

ADVERTISING MANAGERBecky Suffridge, ext. 140Becky@ScoopSanDiego.com

ART DIRECTORTodd Kammer, ext. 144Graphics@MissionPublishingGroup.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERSJen Van Tieghem • Gina Cord Dave Schwab • Jeremy Ogul

OUR NEXT ISSUE The next issue of the Mission Valley Newscomes out Friday, April 12. The advertisingdeadline is Thursday, March 26.

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Linda Vista Library Events

Linda Vista Planning Group General MeetingMonday, March 255:30 to 7:30 p.m.The public is encouraged to attend this open meeting of the Linda Vista Planning Group. Visit www.lindavista.org/lvpg for more information.

Friends of the Linda Vista Branch LibrarySaturday, April 6 11 a.m. to noonThe Friends of the Linda Vista Branch Library meets to coordinate activities. Newcomers welcome. Contact Linda Vista Branch Library at (858) 573-1399 for moreinformation.

Hopscotch Tiny Tots StorytimeEvery Tuesday, 3:30 to 4 p.m.Join Miss Kim for a great time with music, stories, and crafts for babies and toddlers. Hora de Cuentos, Bilingual Storytime Every Wednesday 5 to 5:30 p.m.Join us for stories and songs in Spanish and English

Linda Vista Homework HelpersEvery Wednesday 5:30 to 7 p.m.Free tutoring for children in all grades. If you would like information about becoming a tutor, please call the library.

Preschool Storytime with Miss CarlingEvery Friday, 10 to 11 a.m.Children and their families are invited to join us for stories, rhymes, songs and crafts.

Linda Vista Branch Library is located at 2160 Ulric St., San Diego. Visit lindavistalibrary.org or facebook.com/lvlibrary. The library is open Monday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Tuesday and Wednesday 12:30 to 8 p.m.; Thursday and Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; closed Sunday.

Page 14 MissionValleyNews.com — March 15, 2013commuNitY

Morgan has contaminated the Property in the past two or three decades, but because the City has not complied with applicable statutes of limitation nor gathered the evidence necessary to meet its burden of proof at trial,” Anello wrote in the ruling. The City Council voted in closed session Feb. 13 to appeal the Jan. 25 ruling. The city attorney and members of the City Council declined to comment on the case. Since City Attorney Michael Aguirre filed the case in 2007, the city has relied on special outside legal services from Los Angeles firm Tatro Tekosky Sadwick LLP at a cost of up to $4.75 million. The city’s case was severely undermined by Anello’s determination that the testimony of one of the city’s key expert witnesses, Ray Forrester, was “unreliable and irrelevant,” according to legal standards. Anello wrote that while Forrester, a chemical engineer with more than 30 years’ experience, was

Qualcomm, from page 1 qualified as an expert, his opinions contained internal inconsistencies and were not entirely supported by sound scientific methodology. Thus, Anello granted Kinder Morgan’s motion to exclude Forrester’s testimony. The city’s claim that it was entitled to $126 million in restoration damages collapsed because it was based on Forrester’s excluded testimony. The city also claimed that groundwater contamination from Kinder Morgan’s fuel tanks prevented the city from planning and developing a water supply and storage project at the underground Mission Valley Aquifer, beneath the stadium site. Anello found that the city lacked expert evidence that would show that a water project at the site would even be possible. The city’s claim that it was entitled to real estate damages was based on its argument that the “highest and best use” of the stadium site – a mixed-use development – would have resulted

in $120 million worth of rent. Anello found the city had no legal basis for that claim, since it successfully collected rent from the existing stadium. The city claimed that it was entitled to $570,000 in compensation for the water Kinder Morgan extracted from the ground as part of the remediation process ordered by the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board. The city abandoned this claim when Kinder Morgan challenged it with a motion for summary judgment. Anello also found that the city failed to meet the statute of limitations on its claims of public nuisance, trespass and private nuisance. “Somebody missed the statute of limitations,” said local attorney Hud Collins during public comment at a City Council meeting last month. “I don’t know who it was, but that’s malpractice where I come from.” Kinder Morgan is pleased with the court’s decision, said spokesperson Emily Mir. “We believe the decision to be well-reasoned and correct as a matter of fact and law, and we do not expect it to be overturned if the city decides to pursue an appeal,” Mir said. Mir declined to say how much Kinder Morgan spent defending itself in the case, or whether Kinder Morgan would seek to recoup that amount from the city of San Diego. Kinder Morgan has spent $60 million cleaning up the site, Mir said. The firm finished cleaning up the soil beneath Qualcomm Stadium and its parking lots by the 2010 deadline set by the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board. The firm expects to meet the Dec. 31, 2013 deadline to finish cleaning up groundwater at the site, Mir said. The ongoing uncertainty about the future of the Qualcomm Stadium site is a source of anxiety for neighboring property owners, said Mat Kostrinsky, who ran for the City Council seat now held by Scott Sherman. “The longer this thing goes, the more expensive it will become,” Kostrinsky said. “It’s been five years. There’s a lot of concern among residents.”

Help Your Community in Emergencies

Taking Steps for Healthy Lungs

San Diego Fire-Rescue Department officials are accepting applications for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Academy 29. This year’s academy will be held at Balboa Park Club facilities next to the San Diego Automotive Museum. “This academy is taking place in a new location,” said Deputy Fire Chief Doug Nakama. “We are excited to collaborate with the City’s Parks and Recreation Department on this great community training.”Students of the CERT Academy will learn skills

such as disaster preparedness, fire chemistry and safety, disaster medical treatment and triage techniques, light search and rescue, and terrorism awareness. All classes are taught by San Diego Fire-Rescue personnel and include classroom and hands-on training opportunities. Classes begin April 3 and are free of charge. Visit the CERT San Diego website at www.certsandiego.org to learn more about the Academy 29 dates and to get your application. The deadline for application submission is March 29.

The American Lung Association in California hosts its third Annual Fight for Air Climb March 23 at the One America Plaza Building to raise much needed funds and awareness in the fight for healthy lungs and healthy air. This event challenges individuals and teams to climb 657 steps to reach the 32nd floor of the One America Plaza Building. Fight for Air Climb is the only event in San Diego allowing the public to ascend the entire height of the 500-foot skyscraper. “More than 250 participants will be climbing nearly 657 steps to support our mission to improve air quality and prevent lung disease,” said Jessie Singer, executive director of the American Lung Association in California-San Diego. “Everyone knows someone who has been affected by asthma, emphysema, lung cancer, or tobacco addiction. The Fight for Air Climb is a great way to bring the community together to improve air quality and lung health as well as prevent lung disease.” Register individually

or as a team at www.FightForAirClimb.org. All funds raised will benefit the American Lung Association in California in its efforts to save lives by fighting for healthy lungs and healthy air. Lung disease is the third leading cause of death in the United States, and is responsible for one in seven deaths nationwide. Lung cancer is the nation’s leading cause of cancer death in both men and women, taking more lives than breast, colorectal, prostate, and pancreatic cancers combined. Lung disease is particularly prevalent in California. Ninety percent of Californians live in areas with unhealthy air, contributing to breathing problems for the more than 5 million of our state’s citizens afflicted with asthma, including nearly 1 million children. Online registration is open until noon March 22 at www.FightForAirClimb.org. On-site registration will begin at 9 a.m. For more information about the event, the public should contact Teresa Contreras at (619) 683-8650.

MissionValleyNews.com — March 15, 2013 Page 15

Canoeing Down the San Diego RivercommuNitY

By Tom Leech

The recent heavy rains and overflowing river banks stirred my memory of a river adventure a couple of us did about three decades ago. Back then it was not so unusual to see our local San Diego River spread its waters well beyond its intended channel in Mission Valley. When super heavy rain hit, a lot of buildings were flooded, many roads and parking lots were covered, and the theater on Hotel Circle North would fill up – it made it hard to watch those movies when all the seats were underwater. With improvements to dams and reservoirs upstream, and perhaps a few other upgrades, we’ve not seen those kind of valley floods since then. With heavy rains, one or two crossroads tend to stop traffic, a condition lasting a couple days before going back to normal (after cleaning off the clusters of river foliage that appears). One activity that was, and still is, rarely done was for canoeists to paddle their boats down the river. A particularly heavy rain brought a flood that actually provided ripe conditions for us to make that journey way back when. My friend, Wes Willoughby, had a canoe that saw lots of action on Mission Bay, and we’d joined forces for a trip down the Colorado River

in Arizona. So as the rains had subsided and the widespread waters ebbed a bit, we had this idea to give the San Diego River a shot. We loaded the canoe on Wes’ vehicle, with his wife Emily the driver, and drove up near the Jack Murphy – now Qualcomm – Stadium. There we launched the boat and headed out. Not very fast, we discovered, as the river here was filled with trees and brush. Recalled Wes: “First thing we hit was a forest of saplings. They were so thick we couldn’t pull the canoe past but had to lift it end-on-end to get it through. I was worried we wouldn’t be able to get out.” For the next hour at least we were rarely in the boat, but slogging in waist high water and mud as we pulled and lifted the canoe along. That was not easy work and definitely not the standard way we were used to for the sport of canoeing. Fortunately that rough stretch ended, and we were both able to hop into the canoe and even use our paddles as we headed west. But here was more trouble. “We realized how dangerous the culverts were because they were filled with branches,” said Wes. “If we’d slipped off the canoe and with the rapidly-flowing water, we likely couldn’t have gotten through there.” This stretch took us as

far as the road crossing the river just west of the Town & Country Hotel. We lifted the canoe out of the river and crossed over what’s now called Fashion Valley Road. Today there’s a large fence that separates the road from the golf course. Then there was no fence,

so we dropped the canoe into the river again and paddled our way through the golf course (with not too many golfers watching us). Now for the final stretch as we floated under Morena Boulevard, the railroad track and I-5 and into one of the narrow channels in the river. Here, several hours after our start, we were met by Emily with the transport vehicle, just east of SeaWorld. We could have paddled further along on the SD

River Floodway, past Dog Beach and into the Pacific Ocean, but as we were well-exhausted from all that sloshing, we ended our journey there, perhaps humming along to “Floating – sort of – down the river, on a Sunday… morning...”

Tom Leech is a contributor to Mission Valley News and lead author of Outdoors San Diego: Hiking, Biking & Camping. Wes Willoughby contributed to this article.

Page 16 MissionValleyNews.com — March 15, 2013News

Filner Prioritizes HomelessnessBy Dave Schwab

Mayor Bob Filner sparred with the media during a press powwow Feb. 28, fielding questions about his combative style, homelessness, his ongoing feud with the city attorney over their respective roles and the public battle over funding for the Tourism Marketing District (TMD). During a freewheeling question-and-answer session in his city hall conference room, Filner in turn chided and charmed the media. During an hour long dialogue, the mayor addressed homelessness calling it “a top priority,” stating his hope to make San Diego “the first major city in the nation to house its homeless.” Unapologetic about crossing swords with the city attorney, Filner also defended the hard-line posture he’s adopted toward the TMD in refusing to authorize releasing funds to market the city to tourists.

“What is the purpose of the TMD?” asked Filner. “It’s a tax, a forced assessment on people who would otherwise not pay. They’re (hoteliers) used to sweetheart deals. I want to get the best deal for the city.” “That (TMD) is in legal limbo as well the validation suit on Convention Center expansion and Proposition B,” said Filner, predicting the controversial pension reform initiative will be tied up in courts for “three to five years.” San Diego’s new mayor also chastised the media exhorting them to not accept claims at face value and to dig deeper and sift through facts more. Regarding the TMD, Filner said, “[The press] set up a he-said-she-said, where I say no and they say yes. You’ve got to be a little more critical, not only of [hoteliers] but me.” Asked if he was “secretly hoping” the city would lose on the Convention Center expansion validation suit, Filner quipped, “If I’m

secretly hoping, you won’t know about it,” before adding, “Suits are bad for the city.” Filner said there’s a common thread between the TMD and Convention Center issues, both of which, he said, are being

attempted “without a public vote.” Regarding his recent confrontation with city attorney Jan Goldsmith, Filner said, “There’s no gain for the city if we’re feuding.” Filner added he agreed

with former city attorney Michael Aguirre’s remark that “there are two keys to the door and both have to open it.” “I hope we can work together,” said Filner of his relationship with Goldsmith. “He believes he has the right to go to the public on issues. I think

he should go to his clients, the council and the mayor, first.” Turning to homelessness, Filner said he’d prefer that emergency shelters created for them would be “year round,” and not tied to specific

calendar dates. Asked what he would do to address the root causes, drug and alcohol abuse, mental illness, of homelessness, Filner replied, “I would like to take that approach, but what I’m trying to do now is find the housing first, get people off the streets.” He noted providing other wrap-around services for the homeless will come later. “I have some long-range plans for getting homeless people into permanent shelters,” he said, noting it’s a very complex problem. Concerning sequestration, automatic federal budget poised to go into effect, and what that would mean for San Diego, Filner said, “It would be disastrous.” But the mayor, a former longtime congressman, was quick to add, “I’ve gone through this a lot in 20 years. Somehow, at the last second, [Congress] kicks [the problem] down the road, or they come up with some [last-minute] compromise. I still would bet on that.”