ECM WORLD WATCH: NATIONAL AND GLOBAL NEWS
East County News Service October 18, 2016 (San Diego’s East County) – East County Magazine’s World Watch helps you be an informed citizen about important issues globally and nationally. As part of our commitment to reflect all voices and views, we include links to a wide variety of news sources representing a broad spectrum of political, religious, and social views. Top world and U.S. headlines include: U.S. Presidential campaign When Donald Trump threatens to arrest Hillary Clinton, he threatens democracy (Newsday) FBI’s handling of Hillary Clinton emails: Was there a quid pro quo? (CS Monitor) Former Miss Arizona: Trump ‘just came strolling right in’ on naked contestants (Wash. Post) People Magazine drops bombshell on Trump: 6 witnesses confirm Natasha Stoynoff’s sex assault report (Raw Story) A look at hacked emails from Clinton’s campaign chair (San Diego Union-Tribune) Other national news U.S. warship targeted in failed missile attack from Yemen: official (Reuters) Judge throws out charges against journalist who covered Dakota Access pipeline (Mother Jones) New Jersey judge issues criminal summons against Christie over Bridgegate (CNN) Weedtown, USA: home to America’s first city-owned pot shop (Men’s Journal) WORLD Syrian rebels seize `doomsday’ village where Islamic State promised final battle (Reuters) Iraqi PM: operation to drive ISIS out of Mosul is imminent (CNN) Ecuador cuts Julian Assange’s internet access: WikiLeaks (Reuters) Despite failures, North Korea could field missile next year: U.S. expert (Reuters) Austrian government to demolish house where Hitler was born (+video) (CS Monitor) For excerpts and links to full stories, click “read more” and scroll down. U.S. Presidential campaign When Donald Trump threatens to arrest Hillary Clinton, he threatens democracy (Newsday) What separates functioning democracies from weak or failed ones is that political parties alternate in power without jailing the opponents they beat in elections. That sometimes means giving a pass to potentially criminal conduct, but that’s a worthwhile sacrifice for making republican government work…Prosecuting opponents is the hallmark of democracy-ending dictatorship. FBI’s handling of Hillary Clinton emails: Was there a quid pro quo? (CS Monitor) FBI and Hillary Clinton: Patrick Kennedy, the US State Department official, allegedly offered the FBI permission to post agents in more countries in exchange for reclassifying emails found on Hillary Clinton’s private server. Former Miss Arizona: Trump ‘just came strolling right in’ on naked contestants (Washington Post) ,,, CBS 2 Los Angeles did a little fact-checking and, guess what, this time, no Pinocchios. Tasha Dixon, Miss Arizona in 2001, told the TV station that Trump just came “waltzing in” while contestants were nude or half-nude as they changed into bikinis. Separately, BuzzFeed News reported Wednesday that four women in the 1997 Miss Teen USA beauty pageant said Trump walked into their dressing room while they were changing. Some were as young as 15… People Magazine drops bombshell on Trump: 6 witnesses confirm Natasha Stoynoff’s sex assault report (Raw Story) …People magazine revealed 6 witnesses who confirm Stoynoff’s account of what happened during her 2005 interview with Trump. Witnesses included colleagues and close friends of Stoynoff, including her friend Liza Herz, who was with Stoynoff the day she ran into Melania Trump on 5th Avenue. The Trump campaign has denied all allegations… A look at hacked emails from Clinton’s campaign chair (San Diego Union-Tribune) Hacked emails released in daily dispatches this past week by the WikiLeaks group exposed the inner workings of Hillary Clinton‘s campaign leading up to her 2015 announcement that she would seek the presidency, and through this year’s primary. Other national news U.S. warship targeted in failed missile attack from Yemen: official (Reuters) A U.S. Navy destroyer was targeted on Saturday in a failed missile attack from territory in Yemen controlled by Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, the third such incident in the past week, U.S. officials said. Judge throws out charges against journalist who covered Dakota Access pipeline (Mother Jones) A North Dakota prosecutor alleged that Amy Goodman participated in a riot. The judge wasn’t buying it…Goodman has defended her work, saying in a statement last week, “I wasn’t trespassing, I wasn’t engaging in a riot, I was doing my job as a journalist by covering a violent attack on Native American protesters.” New Jersey judge issues criminal summons against Christie over Bridgegate (CNN) A criminal summons will be issued against New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie after a municipal court judge determined probable cause at a hearing Thursday regarding a citizen complaint related to the 2013 lane closures to the George Washington Bridge, according to a court spokesperson. Weedtown, USA: home to America’s first city-owned pot shop (Men’s Journal) Inside the Cannabis Corner’s otherwise unremarkable bright-green facility is a one-of-a-kind experiment. The shop, which opened its doors in 2015, is run by the city, making it the only government-operated cannabis store in the country. By September 2016, it had generated $2.2 million in revenue, and once the Cannabis Corner covers its start-up costs, proceeds will go to updating the local playground, bankrolling law enforcement, and other municipal expenditures. Not bad for a town that was nearly bankrupt in 2013. WORLD Syrian rebels seize `doomsday’ village where Islamic State promised final battle (Reuters) Syrian rebels said they captured the village of Dabiq from Islamic State on Sunday, forcing the jihadist group from a stronghold where it had promised to fight a final, apocalyptic battle with the West. Its defeat at Dabiq, long a mainstay of Islamic State’s propaganda, underscores the group’s declining fortunes this year as it suffered battlefield defeats in Syria and Iraq and lost a string of senior leaders in targeted air strikes. Iraqi PM: operation to drive ISIS out of Mosul is imminent (CNN) A long-awaited operation to seize the key Iraqi city of Mosul after two years of ISIS control is imminent, Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi announced Sunday. Ecuador cuts Julian Assange’s internet access: WikiLeaks (Reuters) Anti-secrecy group WikiLeaks said on Monday that its founder Julian Assange’s internet was shut down by the government of Ecuador, deflecting blame from the U.S. or British governments which have sparred with Assange for releasing sensitive material.
EAST COUNTY ROUNDUP: LOCAL AND STATEWIDE NEWS
East County News Service October 18, 2016 (San Diego’s East County) — East County Roundup highlights top stories of interest to East County and San Diego’s inland regions, published in other media. This week’s top “Roundup” headlines include: LOCAL Will San Diego farms grow legal marijuana? It’s an open question (San Diego Union-Tribune) San Diego County Registrar of Voters receiving more funding amid increased election costs (10 News) Cameras keep watch across fire-prone regions in San Diego’s backcountry (KPBS) Bald eagle released to the wild after almost succumbing to West Nile virus (10 News) Startup offers resort staycations without the stay (San Diego Union-Tribune) Harassment lawsuit includes new Filner allegation (San Diego Union-Tribune) STATE Kamala Harris, husband release 2015 tax returns; Loretta Sanchez declines (Sacramento Bee) Why are there two plastic bag ban propositions on the California ballot? (Los Angeles Times) Show us which state ballot measures you support (San Diego Union-Tribune) For excerpts and links to full stories, click “read more” and scroll down. LOCAL Will San Diego farms grow legal marijuana? It’s an open question (San Diego Union-Tribune) …Just imagine. Like vineyards of today, high-end marijuana farms advertising tours of grows capped off with a sojourn to the sinsemilla toke room. Visitors, baked in the San Diego sun, shuttling through the backcountry in (thankfully) driverless vehicles as farmers rake in the greenbacks. Not exactly what the current crop of supervisors like to envision. San Diego County Registrar of Voters receiving more funding amid increased election costs (10 News) The San Diego County Board of Supervisors Tuesday approved a request by the Registrar of Voters Office for an additional $1.8 million, in part to fund election cost overruns. Cameras keep watch across fire-prone regions in San Diego’s backcountry(KPBS) Dozens of earthquake sensors located atop mountains and hillsides across San Diego County are also being used to help detect wildfires. The high-tech instruments that measure seismic motion and monitor climate hazards, are also equipped with cameras that allow fire officials to keep watch over remote fire-prone regions. Bald eagle released to the wild after almost succumbing to West Nile virus (10 News) A West Nile virus-stricken bald eagle nursed back to health at a local facility was successfully returned to the wild Friday. Startup offers resort staycations without the stay (San Diego Union-Tribune) Who doesn’t want to lounge around like a VIP at the best resorts in town? That’s the logic behind ResortPass, a San Diego-based startup for people who want to enjoy a fancy hotel’s five-star amenities, but not stay the night. Rather, users book the equivalent of a day pass to use a hotel’s pool, fitness… Harassment lawsuit includes new Filner allegation (San Diego Union-Tribune) A lawsuit filed Friday by a San Diego deputy city attorney claims a supervisor has been sexually harassing her for three years, including telling her to keep quiet about getting harassed previously by former Mayor Bob Filner. STATE Kamala Harris, husband release 2015 tax returns; Loretta Sanchez declines (Sacramento Bee) U.S. Senate candidate Kamala Harris and her husband, attorney Douglas Emhoff, earned nearly $1.17 million in 2015 and paid almost $450,000 in state and federal income taxes, according to their 2015 tax returns. The Sacramento Bee asked Harris and her opponent, Democratic Rep. Loretta Sanchez of Orange County, to provide copies of their 2015 returns as part of a longstanding practice of reviewing candidates’ financial records in major statewide races. Sanchez’s campaign has declined. Why are there two plastic bag ban propositions on the California ballot? (Los Angeles Times) W hen voters go down the list of the 17 statewide propositions on their ballots this November, they could be confused when they reach two measures placed there by a trade group seeking to overturn the state’s landmark 2014 ban on plastic bags. Show us which state ballot measures you support (San Diego Union-Tribune) Let us know which California state ballot propositions will get your “Yes” vote. Links to the official propositions are provided below.
AZTEC FOOTBALL PRESS CONFERENCE: FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS REDUX
For more sports stories, visit ECM’s Sports section. Story and photos by Liz Alper Full quotes courtesy Jen Heisel October 18, 2016 (San Diego) – The Aztecs are playing on Friday night again, so coach Rocky Long, junior fullback Nick Bawden, junior defensive end Dakota Turner and redshirt sophomore quarterback Christian Chapman sat down with the media for a weekly press conference. The Aztecs take the field on Friday night at Qualcomm to face San Jose State, an opponent that they’re all too familiar with. “I know a lot of our coaches have great respect for (SJSU head) Coach (Ron) Caragher,” Long said in his opening statement. “I think there are four guys on their staff I’ve coached with in a couple different settings and I have great respect for their coaching ability. They have a talented football team that seemed to hit their stride last week.” A major discussion topic this week was social media and what people who follow Aztecs football have been saying about the team. After Friday night’s 17-3 win over Fresno State, some were saying that the Aztecs should have won by a bigger margin. Long was asked about this. “It’s like a lot of things in my life; I don’t have control over what people think about it or what they say about it so I try not to worry about it. I don’t think the players worry about it at all. They’re so into social media and they like all of that stuff but nothing has real importance. It’s just the next thing to think about. I don’t think they worry about any of that stuff.” Last week, Aztecs receivers struggled to get open. Long addressed this. “Last week, they struggled to get open and in man-to-man coverage. The opponent did a great job of covering them man-to-man.” Another major topic was Bawden’s transition from quarterback to fullback. Long and Bawden talked about this. “I think it’s not surprising and you love that sort of thing when it happens,” Long said. “Most quarterbacks, when you call them into your offense and say, ‘guess what? You’re not going to be our quarterback anymore more so we’ll help you transfer or we’ll move you to another position,’ and he says, ‘well, give me a day or two to think about it’ and he comes back two days later and says, ‘okay, I want to stay. What position am I playing?’ And you say, ‘fullback’ and he says, ‘okay,’ in this day and age, those are fun things to have happen. He probably could’ve gone somewhere else to be a quarterback. I think he likes the school, I think he had a lot of really good friends on the team and he didn’t see any reason to leave. Since that time, he’s gotten bigger, stronger and has changed his [on field] personality dramatically. He is not a quarterback anymore; he is a fullback. Every game, he gets better.” “At first, it brought me down because I had played quarterback since my freshman year of high school and that was my dream,” Bawden said. “In life, dreams change and things change and you’ve just got to take advantage of the opportunities you’re given. He gave me a few days to talk it over with my parents and see what the pros and cons were, to visualize what I wanted to do. I loved how the program was on the rise here and I wanted to be a part of it. I love everything the coaches preach around here and I’ve taken that to heart about trying to be a team player for San Diego State football. I was thankful that Coach Long was giving me an opportunity to play another position here. When he told me it was fullback, I was kind of surprised at first because it’s a pretty physical position, coming from quarterback. But I’ve tried to take as much coaching as I can since switching positions and do as much research as I can so I can try to be the best player I can for this team.” Bawden and Turner also talked about the team social media use. “We have a team rule that we don’t talk about our team or other teams and it kind of keeps our head out of that because it’s really easy to get caught up in that and really easy to lose focus in your preparation for the game that week so we don’t have any guys who are up there talking about anybody else or our team and I think that’s really smart and a great way to do it,” Bawden said. “It is a huge distraction and it is a new age thing that is kind of taking the world by storm especially in sports. College kids can be irresponsible with it. We just talk about it on the field with our play.” “I’ll see some guys from back home on the other team and it’s more, after the game, we’ll talk,” Turner said. “before the game, I don’t even like talking to them. I just keep my focus and I’ll talk to them after the game and take pictures and whatnot but before the game, I keep my head clear and keep away from all distractions.” Turner also talked about the fans that say that the Aztecs don’t put enough points on the board. “We don’t really pay attention to what they say about that. We’re just there to win the game. We’re there to play as hard as we can for four quarters and not give up on any plays. If the score isn’t what the fans want, we’re working as hard as we can to put as many points as we can up on the board. We’re just there to get the win and go on to the next week.” Chapman also praised Bawden for making the switch from quarterback to fullback. “It shows the selflessness of guys we have on
8 ARRESTED AMID CIVIL UNREST IN EL CAJON; PROTESTERS FILE SUIT AGAINST CITY AND COUNTY
Update 2 p.m.: Police this afternoon are blocking access to the site that has been the focus of protests where Alfred Olango was shot on Sept. 27. East County News Service October 18, 2016 (El Cajon) — El Cajon Police declared an unlawful assembly and arrested eight protesters last night at 800 Broadway near Mollison, the site where Alfred Olango was shot by police over two weeks ago. According to a press release, the trouble started last night around 5 p.m. when two people arrived and became angry that a makeshift memorial had been removed. Police say the strip mall’s owner hired a security company to help return to business as usual. Earlier in the day, the release states, ”participants in the memorial, who had been asked to leave the property returned and asked to collect their items. They removed the tents, grills and other memorial and personal items. Neither the property owners nor the police department removed memorial items. Police content that the two individuals became “verbally assaultive” toward a security officer, who asked them to leave. They refused to leave and called for others to join them. Security called police, who again asked the people to leave. “When they refused, they were placed under citizen’s arrest. At approximately 6 pm, when officers were taking custody of those two arrestees, other members of the crowd began to assault officers. Mutual aid was called for at that time,” Lieutenant Rob Ransweiler states. He adds, “While responding to the disturbance, at least three officers witnessed a single suspect brandish a hand gun. Protesters also saw that subject draw the gun, and they tackled him. He dropped the gun and other protesters left the area with it.” An unlawful assembly was declared via the helicopter overhead. Protesters fled into surrounding neighborhoods, prompting officers to walk the streets trying to locate the suspects that fled with the gun and the suspect who drew the gun. Protesters who refused to leave the unlawful assembly were arrested. The firearm was not recovered. A total of 8 people were arrested. All were booked into San Diego County Jail on charges that included trespassing, delaying/obstructing an officer, refusing to leave an unlawful assembly, destruction of evidence, and assault with a deadly weapon. Those arrested ranged in agefrom22 to 37 years old. Three are residents of El Cajon, four are from San Diego, and one lives in La Mesa. Earlier in the day, protesters filed a lawsuit against the city of El Cajon, El Cajon Police, the County of San Diego and the San Diego Sheriff’s Department claiming that a Saturday night protest gathering at the same site was peaceful. The suit claims that police declared an unlawful assembly and broke up that late-night vigil, arresting 14 people, because the incident inconvenienced police. Charges Saturday included suspicion of public intoxication and having an outstanding warrant. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of 14 people, including two minors who allegedly witnessed police arrest their mother, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)San Diego branch. The suit contends the dispersal order violated protesters’ First Amendment rights to freedom of assembly and expression. Some said they were holding a prayer circle. The suit seeks an injunction to halt police from stopping future assemblies or arresting peaceful demonstrators. Police have said that after the arrests, a fight broke out among some protesters and someone said one left to get a gun. “Sensing this shift in the demeanor of the crowd, and out of concern for community safety, officers declared an unlawful assembly and ordered the group to disperse,” police Lt. Rob Ransweiler said in a statement on Oct. 2. But some remained. Jeff Provenzano shot video and participated in that protest as well as earlier ones since the September 27 shooting. “For them to come in with such a show of force when people were just talking and praying was absolutely ridiculous,” he said a day after his arrest, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports. “There were crazier things happening other days and the cops didn’t do anything.” The video shows 50 to 75 officers in riot gear closing in on about 20 people under a canopy near the makeshift memorial. Officers removed some posters and spoke briefly before the arrests commenced. The shooting of Olango and ensuing protests have drawn national attention. Olango’s sister called police to report he was “not “acting like himself.” Others called 911 to report he was walking in traffic. It took 50 minutes for El Cajon police officers to respond; a psychiatric emergency response team (PERT) was on another call and not available. Two officers responded, one drawing a taser, the other a gun when Olango failed to respond to commands and backed away. A cell phone video shows Olango pointed a vaping device that resembled a gun; both officers fired and Olango was killed. Some civil rights advocates have called for a U.S. Justice Department investigation. The tragedy has also sparked conversation over the need for more de-escalation techniques and training to handle calls regarding an individual suffering a mental health crisis.
READER’S EDITORIAL: SAND MINING AND THE STADIUM
By Barry A. Treahy, Lakeside Photo: Sand mining in Wisconsin; Wisconsin Watch creative commons image October 18, 2016 (Lakeside) — This November election will be interesting. Two Charger stadium initiatives are on the ballot and one EIR for El Monte Valley Sand Mining remains pending. Am I looking at a coincidence, that the EIR might be coming out after the Sand Miners see how elections go and whether or not they will be selling sand to build a new stadium? “Many city elected officials have come out against the Chargers plan because of its use of public funds.” As a native senior San Diegan, I recall Lane Field ball park, for the San Diego Padres. There have been several replacement stadiums since Lane Field. Undisputedly, San Diego Stadium aka other names is the best. Each time, the City/County sold out to Money and Power. That’s how the stadium name was changed, for money. “America’s finest Qualcomm?” Lane Field as I remember, was an all wood construction, that served us well. It was even affordable according to my parents. Last week I was having a cold one at the Coaster, Mission Beach. The original roller coaster across the street is still running and on the original wood construction. My parents put us on it as kids. Amazing how things can last. Our population in San Diego City and County has exploded over the years, and most families today cannot afford the parking fees, let alone Charger tickets. I also remember “money & power” and our so called Representative Government, making San Diegans subsidize low ticket sales through taxation. Money & Power……………If a new stadium is allowed, I would venture that sand mining will be approved pushed by Money & Power and our so called “Representative Government;”. Who cares about a new stadium? probably not many; who cares about the Chargers – mostly those that watch them on TV. Who cares about sand mining, of the 200 property owners in El Monte Valley, a majority returned their Yes/No ballots against it. Only one affirmative. How did it become zoned for sand mining? I’ve asked those questions and done my part, have you? Still waiting for answers. The opinions in this editorial reflect the views of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of East County Magazine. To submit an editorial for consideration, contact editor@eastcountymagazine.org.
TWITTER USERS RESPOND TO SECOND PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE
By Amber M. Henry Read full transcript of debate October 18, 2016 (Washington University) — Hilary Clinton and Donald Trump walked onto the stage from opposite sides as the town hall in Washington University erupted in applause at the second presidential debate on October 9th. Clinton smiled, nodded and called out “Hello!” to the audience. Trump walked in with his hands close to his sides, a guarded but friendly expression on his face. At center stage, the candidates acknowledged each other with a nod, but no hand shake was offered – by either candidate. This simple non-gesture spoke volumes to unbridled intensity in the debate. That intensity was echoed on the Internet, with more than 17 million debate-related Tweets sent, making it the most Tweeted debate ever, Twitter reported. CNN’s Anderson Cooper and ABC’s Martha Raddatz facilitate the second Presidential debate which includes questions from local undecided voters, questions submitted online and follow-up questions from the facilitators. In first question, a town hall member asks the candidates if they saw themselves as good role models for the youth in America. Clinton replies first, saying it is important to convey to our children, “Our country really is great, because we are good. And we are going to respect one another, lift each other up. We are going to be looking for ways to celebrate our diversity…” She continues, “If we overcome the decisiveness that sometimes sets Americans against one another and instead make some big goals… and come together to achieve them, there is nothing in my opinion that America can’t do. That’s why the slogan of my campaign is ‘Stronger Together’.” Finally, she states, “I want to be the President for all Americans. Regardless of your political beliefs where you come from, what you look like, your religion. I want us to heal our country and bring it together. Because that’s – I think- the best way to get the future that our children and our grandchildren deserve.” Trump steps forward to address the audience for the first time, and he quietly acknowledges Clinton. “Well, I actually agree with that. I agree with everything she said. I began this campaign because I was so tired of seeing such foolish things with our country. This is a great country. This is a great land. I’ve gotten to know the people of the country over the last year and half… My whole concept was to ‘Make America Great Again’.” Cooper follows up with a question to Donald Trump regarding the tape recordings released exposing his comments about women. In particular, Trump was heard on the tape stating that he can’t help himself when “kissing women without consent and grabbing their genitals”. Trump’s responded, “No, I didn’t say that at all. I don’t think you understood. This was locker room talk.” “You’ve bragged that you have sexually assaulted women- do you understand that?” asks Cooper. Trump quickly deflects attention from his own flawed behavior to a greater threat that instills fear in many. “I’m not proud of it, but it’s locker room talk. It’s one of those things… You know when you have ISIS chopping off heads, and drowning people in cages and wars. When you have horrible, horrible sights all over, so many bad things happening in the world… it’s like medieval times.” With over 17 million people on Twitter responding to the debate, it appears over all viewer response was not positive to Trump’s answer on this question. Twitter comment by Charles Clymer states, “Make no mistake: this sorry excuse for a “man” bragged about sexually assaulting women. If you support him, you’re condoning that.” Not everyone on Twitter agreed. A Trump supporter, Brian Fraser, tweeted the message, “WAKE UP AMERICA I’m far more concerned about #HillaryClinton ACTIONS than what #DonaldTrump may say.” Again, Cooper presses Trump. “What you are saying though, is that you have not actually kissed women without consent or groped women without consent? For the record … Have you done those things?” Trump replies, “No, I have not.” (Since the debate, 12 women have come forward to claim that Trump did sexually assault them without consent.) He then goes on to fault Clinton for standing by her husband and criticizing women who claimed he engaged in sexual misconduct. In an attempt to rattle his opponent, Trump seated those women in front of the stage. (Bill Clinton was impeached for lying about a consensual affair and paid a settlement decades ago to one other woman. He has denied any non-consensual acts and one accuser recanted her claim. Ironically, since the debate, Trump has engaged in attacks on women who accused him of sexual assault, accusing them of lying and making derogatory remark about their appearances.) Hillary Clinton remained calm and refused to be baited into discussions about her husband. Regarding Trump, she responded, “I said back in June, that he was not fit to be president and commander in chief… He has said that the video doesn’t represent who he is. But I think it’s clear … [the recording] represents exactly who he is. Yes, this is who Donald Trump is. But it’s not only women and it’s not only this video that raises questions about his fitness to be president. But he has also targeted immigrants, African Americans, Latinos, people with disabilities, POW’s, Muslims and so many others,” Clinton says. Trump was asked if it was still his position to have a Muslim ban. He stood firm, responding, “It is called extreme vetting… I don’t want to have a hundred thousand Syrians coming in when we don’t know about their values… or their beliefs about our country.” He continues, “When Muslims come in [to the country], we have to be sure that they report when they see something.” Author Moustafa Bayoumi then sent the most retweeted Tweet of the debate: “”I’m a Muslim, and I would like to report a crazy man threatening a woman on a stage in Missouri. #debate.” “We will have vetting
SANTEE CANDIDATES AGREE TRAFFIC IS CITY’S BIGGEST ISSUE, DIFFER IN VIEWS ON HOUSING AND DEVELOPMENT
By Mike Allen October 18, 2016 (Santee) — A Santee candidates’ forum held Oct. 13 at Rio Seco School found common ground on some issues, but differences in how to solve problems and shape the city’s future. The forum, attended by about 200 people, was one of only a few events where the Santee City Council and mayoral candidates for the Nov. 8 election appeared. It was sponsored by Santee Solutions and the Santee Mobilehome Owners Action Committee, and moderated by the San Diego League of Women Voters. One thing all five candidates seemed to agree on: there has to be a better way of getting around town and cutting congestion on Highway 52, and its entry points. “Traffic is the No. 1 issue here,” said Mason Herron, one of three men running for a single, open city council seat. The other two are Stephen Houlahan and Dustin Trotter. “We have to get developers in the future to pay for their fair share.” Daily traffic backups along Mast Boulevard and other entry points to SR 52 were blamed on a slew of new housing projects, and inadequate transportation planning. All agreed a proposal to open up Mast Boulevard to Lakeside was not the right solution, and advocated working with state and regional planners to widen or add lanes on SR 52 in the future. Asked whether they’d support more residential development, most candidates said as long as projects come with the appropriate infrastructure improvements, they would support it. Rob McNelis, a current Council member and realtor who is running for mayor against fellow Councilman John Minto, a retired police officer, said some smaller residential projects have to be done. “But I’m opposed to higher density. If we do build, we need to build detached houses. We already have a lot of condos. Been there, done that.” Minto, who has served on the council for 14 years, said the developers of the largest planned housing project, Fanita Ranch, which will be about 1,400 homes, needs to work with the environmental community to see how the impacts from the new housing could be best mitigated. Houlahan used the chance to criticize the incumbents for having taken a far too lenient approach to new housing projects. “To say that developers will do the right thing without someone holding them accountable is not realistic,” he said. Houlahan, a registered nurse, touted his role as president of Save Mission Trails and stopping the Quail Brush energy plant from being built at Mission Trails Regional Park. He said he was opposed to the Castlerock project of 415 new homes near West Hills High School go forward. “We should have stood together and stopped it. But that’s only one development coming to town. There are thousands of them.” Trotter said Castlerock, which broke ground this summer and will be completed next year, shouldn’t have been approved. (In fact, the project was approved by the city of San Diego, which then arranged for Santee to annex it last year.) Trotter said his experience as the owner of a general contracting business gives him a better background to understand new development and ensure that it’s done responsibly. Trotter said he supported well-planned projects including much-needed starter homes. “I believe in the American dream and that people have a chance to own their own home.” To a question on campaign contributions and developer involvement, Herron said he had about 160 contributors giving a range of few dollars to the maximum individual limit of $700. McNellis said he was the biggest contributor to his campaign, but there was one developer, Michael Grant and his wife who gave the maximum of $1,400. Trotter said most of his funding came from Santee citizens but that included some developers who gave between $250 to $350 each. Minto also said he received money from some developers ranging from $50 to the maximum $700. Houlahan said he received no funds at all from developers. To a question about mandating solar panels on new development, most candidates said the city has laws that give some incentive for this, but would oppose making this a requirement. Herron, a district director for Assemblyman Brian Jones, said a system that already exists today, giving owners the chance to install solar as they wish, is working fine. “For us to come in and say you now have to do this, I’m against it.” Houlahan took a different tack, stating, “Let’s put solar on everything new that’s built.” McNelis pointed out that mandating solar panels on new projects would greatly add to the cost, and that not all buildings, including his own, would benefit because they didn’t get much sunshine. Regarding the homeless issue, most candidates said the city and county already spend considerable funds to help those who are in need. The problem, most said, is many of the homeless have no intention of changing and prefer living on the street. Herron said that Santee could learn from other cities that have reduced their homeless populations. He said folks avoid using public trails because of homeless people occupying them; that is a quality of life issue that needs to be addressed. McNelis noted that Santee already has a homeless outreach team to help those willing to accept it. “The reality is that the vast majority of people down (near the San Diego River) want to be there.” Houlahan said the city should do more in terms of outreach, and pursue federal grants to help the homeless– especially families with children. Although Santee has already outlawed marijuana dispensaries, candidates were asked to weigh in on what they would do if Proposition 64, which legalizes its use and sale, passes. Each of the five agreed that the city’s existing law banning pot shops should prevail, and that even if the state allows it, the sale of marijuana is still against federal law. McNelis said in those states that allow it, stores are shackled because no banks will take their money. While
SPRING VALLEY GRADUATE RETURNS FROM OVERSEAS DEPLOYMENT
By Petty Officer Jamal McNeill, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs October 18, 2016 (San Diego) – A 2003 Mount Miguel High School Graduate and San Diego, California native recently returned to the United States from an overseas deployment with the largest amphibious warship in the Navy. Petty Officer 2nd Class Adam Vizcorrondo, is a master-at-arms serving aboard USS Boxer (LHD-4), based in San Diego, California. As a master-at-arms, Vizcorrondo is responsible for physical security and law enforcement in support of anti-terrorism and force protection aboard Boxer. “I get to meet a lot of new people with my job,” said Vizcorrondo. “It’s great to be a first responder and helping people in need because I’ve had people do the same for me.” Boxer is an amphibious assault ship that resembles a small aircraft carrier. When deployed overseas, it is designated as the flagship of Combined Task Force 151, the international anti-piracy task force pursuing pirates off the coast of Somalia. Boxer is famous for playing a critical role in the rescue mission of Capt. Richard Phillips on April 12, 2009. U.S. Navy SEALS and other special operations forces from USS Bainbridge (DDG 96) rescued Phillips who was later transferred to Boxer for medical evaluation and care. This successful rescue mission was portrayed in the 2103 movie, “Captain Phillips,” starring Tom Hanks, and featuring crewmembers from the USS Boxer. The ship is armed with two semi-active radar-guided NATO Sea Sparrow missile systems (NSSMS) for anti-air warfare protection, two rolling airframe missile (RAM) systems and two Phalanx close-in weapon-system (CIWS) mounts to counter threats from low-flying aircraft and close-in small craft. It’s 844 feet long 106 feet wide, displaces more than 40,000 tons, and reaches speeds in excess of 23 miles per hour. As a member of the U.S. Navy’s amphibious assault ship, Vizcorrondo said he is proud to be part of most capable amphibious force in the world. “Serving on this ship has helped me learn a lot,” said Vizcorrondo. “I’ve gained the responsibilities of someone in a higher rank, which will definitely help me in my career in the future.” Sailors’ jobs are highly varied at sea, according to Navy officials. More than 1,000 crewmembers keep the ship running smoothly, which includes everything from maintaining engines, handling weapons, and flying aircraft. Serving in the Navy, Vizcorrondo is learning about being a more responsible leader, and sailor through handling numerous responsibilities. The recent deployment offered the opportunity to experience cultures from around the world. “Being in the Navy I’ve learned to be more resourceful and patient,” said Vizcorrondo. “There is more than one way to get things done but the Navy gives you the confidence to reach out and network to accomplish these tasks, while being able to follow the guidelines required to perform to the maximum level.”
TOAST TO EAST COUNTY OCT. 22 HIGHLIGHTS LOCAL WINERIES, CRAFT BREWERS AND FOOD PRODUCERS
Local wine industry trailblazers will also be honored East County News Service October 17, 2016 (Rancho San Diego) – Six new Trailblazers will be honored and dozens of local wine and food producers will be highlighted at 2nd annual Toast to East County. The event, sponsored by the East County Chamber of Commerce, will be held from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, October 22 at Cottonwood Golf Club on Willow Glen Road in the Rancho San Diego area of El Cajon. East San Diego County has established a vibrant and growing wine industry. There are more than 100 wineries in San Diego County, with more than 40 east of Highway 15. Many of those local east county vintners will have their products highlighted at the Toast to East County event, along with local craft brewers, organic producer growers, honey and olive oil makers and local restaurants. “It’s a great opportunity for people from all over the county to sample different wines, craft beers and locally-grown foods, all produced in the east county area of San Diego County,” said Eric Lund, CEO of the San Diego East County Chamber of Commerce. Also included in the program will be the Maness Vineyards “Trail Blazer Awards” recognizing outstanding visionaries in the vintner industry. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door. For more information and to order tickets, visit www.eastcountychamber.org or call (619) 440-6161. For an interactive map and more information on San Diego County’s local wineries, click here: http://sandiegowineries.org/directory.
LA MESA CANDIDATES SHARE VIEWS ON COMMUNITY CHOICE ENERGY OPTION
By Miriam Raftery October 17, 2016 (La Mesa) — Recently, La Mesa’s Planning Commission and Environmental Sustainability Commission held a public meeting on the potential for La Mesa to form its own community choice aggregation (CCA) energy program. The plan would enable the city to purchase power from renewable energy sources and sell it directly to residents, offering an alternative to SDG&E, which would continue to maintain power lines. But where do the three candidates running for La Mesa’s City Council stand? ECM contacted each candidate; their replies are below. Colin Parent is an attorney with Circulate San Diego and a strong advocate of addressing climate change; his father, Don Parent, is public affairs manager at SDG&E, which opposes CCAs. But he says, “I strongly support La Mesa commissioning a feasibility study for community choice aggregation as a part of adopting a legally enforceable Climate Action Plan. Every city in the region that is considering community choice aggregation is performing a feasibility study before making any decision, and La Mesa should exercise the same due diligence. “ Councilwoman Kristine Alessio, also an attorney, states, ”I don’t know enough about how it would work in La Mesa to say `Yes, I will do this’ as we need feasibility studies to know if it’s even possible as we’re such a small city. But in theory I am 100% behind CCA for consumers. I can’t see much of a downside really, unless of course rates were significantly higher for the consumers, which doesn’t appear to be the case based on looking at the information received to date.” Councilwoman Ruth Sterling offers this assessment. ”It’s so important to get it right. People want stability in their electricity transmission source, they also want it to be cost-effective. I’m looking forward to our consultants’ analysis, the pros and cons and many facets that will be presented. Then I think we can make an intelligent choice. Nobody wants to opt in, opt out and go on that merry go round, so I’ll take my time with this and wait for the professionals.” She adds, “Common sense may dictate that we’ve got the best deal with SDG&E, so we have to consider all of these variables.”