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Breaking News Midnight: Calle Corte house fire causes $450K damages, family escapes injury
A family at the residence was chilling by the fireplace when they first spotted the smoke monster emerging from the attic through the house walls, Rancho Santa Fe fire officials said. “The owner tried to put it out himself with an extinguisher and a garden hose,” said Rancho Santa Fe Fire chief Tony Michel. “But he called 9-1-1 when he realized it was bigger than he had thought.” Some two alarms, eight fire engines, two ladder trucks, one medical unit, one rehab unit, a battalion chief, and 40 minutes later, firefighters from Rancho Santa Fe and Solana Beach subdued the blaze. They stuck around through 11 p.m. to make certain no more hot spots would emerge. Nobody was injured. Damage was estimated at around $450,000. The exact cause of the fire is under investigation. Taking Down 'Defragmentation' (ProjectX: Art, Solana Beach) -- Inspiration etc...from visual artist Michelle Guieu(Editor's Note: Bay Area visual artist Michelle Guieu lived for six years at Solana Beach. Her recent show called 'Defragmentation ran last month at Project X: Art at 320 South Cedros Avenue. Her blog is at: http://micheleguieu.blogspot.com/.)
Defragmentation @ Project X Art - Last day of the show. Photos of some elements of the installation
60x12"
Encinitas I am back from my week-end in San Diego. Or, more precisely Solana Beach and Encinitas. I arrived Saturday night and went directly to the gallery in Solana Beach to take down the show. I've got some nice help from Lori and Janine.
I felt I was really leaving San Diego yesterday. I finished what I had to do at the gallery Sunday afternoon, it took hours to finish packing. Had the pleasure to see a couple of friends visiting while I was at the gallery. I went for a walk with Janine on the beach in Encinitas. The fast changing colors and lights were exhilarating. But it made me think about what I am missing since I've left. So I had some time to think and just enjoy the landscapes.
Rancho Santa Fe School District meets Friday to discuss personnel, projects: AGENDA ITEMS...
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING Friday, January 21, 2011Rancho Santa Fe School District Room 2035927 La GranadaRancho Santa Fe, CA 92067Open Session: 8:15 a.m.Closed Session will immediately follow Written notice is hereby given in accordance with Education Code Section 35144, Government Code54956, and other applicable law that the following Special Meeting of the Board of Trustees, RanchoSanta Fe School District, will be held on Friday, January 21, 2011 beginning with Open Session at 8:15a.m. with Closed Session immediately following at the Rancho Santa Fe School, 5927 La Granada,Rancho Santa Fe, California in Room 203.
NOTE: All Board members and guests are requested to TURN OFF their cellular phone ringers during themeeting. BUSINESS TO BE TRANSACTED WILL BE LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING: I. Call To Order II. Pledge of Allegiance III. Minutes 1. Approval of Minutes for the Special Meeting of December 7, 2010 IV. Public Comment It is at this time that anyone wishing to speak regarding an item on the agenda or othertopic is given an opportunity to do so. If you wish to speak under Public Comment,complete a comment card. Advance written information regarding the subject will beappreciated so that all might be better informed regarding the matter. In the interest oftime and order, presentations from the public are limited to three (3) minutes per person. Members of the public who require disability accommodation in order to participate in themeeting should contact the Superintendent at (858) 756-1141, or in writing, at least 24hours prior to the meeting. (Government Code section 54954.2) In accordance with the Brown Act, unless an item has been placed on the published agenda,there shall be no action taken. The Board may 1) acknowledge receipt of the information, 2) referto staff for further study, or 3) refer the matter to the next agenda. V. Reports Ms. Lindy Delaney, Superintendenti. Rowe Facilities Update – Tim Ireland, Project Manager and Superintendent Lindy Delaney... 1. Change Orders 2. Budget 2010-2011 School Year Update OFFICIAL AGENDA, Special Meeting, January 21, 2011 VI. Discussion/Action Items 1. Student Information Systems by Ben Holbert, Director of Technology2. Discuss/Approve contract with Webb Cleff Architecture & Engineering for architecturalservices for future District renovation projects. VII. Consent Calendar Items The following items are routine business matters of the Board and will be handled by a singlemotion unless Governing Board members or members of the audience request to have an itemremoved from the Consent Calendar for discussion. 1. Business Reports:a. Fund Report (November)b. Purchase Ordersc. Payrolld. Revolving Fund (October/November/December)e. Commercial Warrants (December)2. Approve Change Order 14 for DSA Application #04-109900 (Main Campus) for an increase incontract amount of $26,397.00 for a total contract sum of $30,935,708.00 (from$30,909,311.00).3. Approve payment of $1,242,916.60 (6.4%) retention reduction to C.W. Driver for contractorswho have closed out their services from the R. Roger Rowe Modernization Project.4. Approve 2009-2010 audit report for Rancho Santa Fe School District.5. Approve Authorization for Participation of the 2011-2012 Application for FundingConsolidated Categorical Aid Programs, Part II.6. Approve First Period Attendance Report for 2010-2011 School Year.7. Approve Master Contract with HMS Systems, Inc. for occupational therapy services providedby Francean Williams, not to exceed 15 hours per week, effective December 17, 2010 toJune 30, 2011.8. Approve purchase of iMac computers from The Apple Store for Physical Science funded bythe Robert Jaffe donation not to exceed $12,948.00.9. Approve quote from Superior Floor Designs for replacement of carpet in Room 410 not toexceed $2,685.00.10. Approve lease listing agreement with Barry Estates beginning January 10, 2011 and endingon June 10, 2011.11. Accept check from the Rancho Santa Fe Foundation in the amount of $9,300.00 from theRancho Santa Fe School District Performing Arts Center Fund.12. Accept the gift of a Leica DN500 Binocular Microscope valued at $1,500.00 from Dr. AlanBlank. VIII. Personnel 1. Recommended Personnel Actions: Employment, Resignations, Retirement, Dismissals,Leaves of Absence, Change of Status: i. Personnel Actions: Employment, Resignations, Retirement, Dismissals, Leavesof Absence, Change of Status: 1. Approve leave of absence from Rosie Martinez, purchasing agent,effective December 10, 2010 through December 31, 2010.2. Approve full-time employment of Helena Galvin, school nurse, for the2010-2011 school year.3. Information Only: OFFICIAL AGENDA, Special Meeting, January 21, 2011 2 of 3 a. Superintendent has accepted a letter of resignation fromJuliet Richardson, lunch duty supervisor, dated January 14,2011. IX. Board Member Requests re Agenda Items and Future Agenda Items X. Adjourn to Closed Session XI. Closed Session 1. Matters Related to Real Property Acquisitions – Conference with Real PropertyNegotiators Government Code 54956.8. The Board will meet in Closed Session with legalcounsel Richard Currier and Superintendent Delaney, regarding parking spaces ownedby the Rancho Santa Fe School District on El Fuego-negotiations with the Rancho SantaFe Association. From time-to-time writings that are public records, which are related to open session items on an agendafor a regular meeting, may be distributed to school board members after the posting of the agenda.Whenever this occurs, such writings will be available for public inspection in the Office of theSuperintendent located at 5927 La Granada, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067. Meetings, Shmeetings and Shtuff This Week: Orphan Dogs, Rancho School Board, Encinitas Week, Botanic Garden celebration...
Take an Orphan Dog for a “Test Drive” this WednesdayDuring January’s “Take an Orphan Dog to Work Day!” Rancho Santa Fe, CA – Out of the kennel and into your office! Dog lovers are invited to take an orphan dog to work during January’s, “Take an Orphan Dog to WorkDay” this Wednesday, January 19. Contact Helen Woodward Animal Center(HWAC) to learn how you can adopt a dog for one day and take it to work. “Make sure it’s okay with your boss for you to bring an orphan pooch from HWAC to work,” says HWAC spokesman John Van Zante. “And make sure that it’s okay with your co-workers. This needs to be a positive experience for everyone involved.” Van Zante says the best thing that could happen would be if you fall in love with the dog and adopt it. What’s the worst? “There really is no down side. Maybe you just give the dog a day-cation from the kennels and it gets to meet your friends and co-workers. That alone is something worth barking about!” Here are some tips for a successful, “Take and Orphan Dog to Work Day:”Bring water and food dishes and a blanket or dog bed. (HWAC provides.)•Don’t forget lunch and snacks for your dog-for-a-day.•Remember to take some walk breaks. (Good for both you and the dog!)• A limited number of dogs are available for Take an Orphan Dog to Work Day. One-day adopters must pre-qualify the same as long-term adopters. . Call (858) 756-4117 or visit Helen Woodward Animal Center at 6461 El ApajoRoad in Rancho Santa Fe to find out how you can take an orphan dog to work thisWednesday. To see pets available for adoption log on to www.animalcenter.org. If you’re afraid of dogs, ask for information about HWAC’s, “Dog Smart” classes tohelp people of any age overcome their fears and apprehensions.
The Rancho Santa Fe School Board of Trustees is scheduled to hold a special meeting at 8:15 a.m. Friday, January 21 in Room 203 (west of the Library). The agenda has not been released. However, the district canceled a meeting scheduled for Jan. 13.
The following was the Jan. 13 Agenda: AGENDA Agenda for Regular Meeting of the Board of TrusteesRancho Santa Fe School District – Library5927 La GranadaRancho Santa Fe, CA 92067Thursday, January 13, 2011Closed Session 5:00 p.m.Open Session 6:00 p.m. NOTE: All Board members and guests are requested to TURN OFF their cellular phone ringers duringthe meeting. I. Call To Order II. Pledge of Allegiance III. Closed Session 1. Superintendent’s Evaluation2. Matters Related to Real Property Acquisitions – Conference with Real PropertyNegotiators Government Code 54956.8. The Board will meet in Closed Session with legalcounsel Richard Currier and Superintendent Delaney, regarding parking spaces ownedby the Rancho Santa Fe School District on El Fuego-negotiations with the Rancho SantaFe Association. IV. Minutes 1. Approval of Special Meeting of December 7, 2010 V. Public Comment It is at this time that anyone wishing to speak regarding an item on the agenda or othertopic is given an opportunity to do so. If you wish to speak under Public Comment,complete a comment card. Advance written information regarding the subject will beappreciated so that all might be better informed regarding the matter. In the interest oftime and order, presentations from the public are limited to three (3) minutes per person. Members of the public who require disability accommodation in order to participate in themeeting should contact the Superintendent at (858) 756-1141, or in writing, at least 24hours prior to the meeting. (Government Code section 54954.2) In accordance with the Brown Act, unless an item has been placed on the published agenda,there shall be no action taken. The Board may 1) acknowledge receipt of the information, 2) referto staff for further study, or 3) refer the matter to the next agenda. VI. Reports Ms. Lindy Delaney, Superintendenti. Rowe Facilities Update – Tim Ireland, Project Manager and SuperintendentLindy Delaney OFFICIAL AGENDA, Regular Meeting, December 13, 2011 1. Change Orders 2. Budget2010-2011 School Year Update VII. Discussion/Action Items 1. Staff Development Opportunities for 2010-2011 by Cindy Schaub, AssistantSuperintendent2. Student Information Systems by Ben Holbert, Director of Technology and Cindy Schaub,Assistant Superintendent3. Discuss/Approve contract with Webb Cleff Architecture & Engineering for architecturalservices for future District renovation projects. VIII. Consent Calendar Items The following items are routine business matters of the Board and will be handled by a singlemotion unless Governing Board members or members of the audience request to have an itemremoved from the Consent Calendar for discussion. 1. Business Reports:a. Fund Report (November)b. Purchase Ordersc. Payrolld. Revolving Fund (October/November/December)e. Commercial Warrants (December)2. Approve Change Order 14 for DSA Application #04-109900 (Main Campus) for an increase incontract amount of $26,397.00 for a total contract sum of $30,935,708.00 (from$30,909,311.00).3. Approve payment of $1,242,916.60 (6.4%) retention reduction to C.W. Driver for contractorswho have closed out their services from the R. Roger Rowe Modernization Project.4. Approve 2009-2010 audit report for Rancho Santa Fe School District.5. Approve Authorization for Participation of the 2011-2012 Application for FundingConsolidated Categorical Aid Programs, Part II.6. Approve First Period Attendance Report for 2010-2011 School Year.7. Approve Master Contract with HMS Systems, Inc. for occupational therapy services providedby Francean Williams, not to exceed 15 hours per week, effective December 17, 2010 toJune 30, 2011.8. Accept check from the Rancho Santa Fe Foundation in the amount of $9,300.00 from theRancho Santa Fe School District Performing Arts Center Fund. IX. Personnel 1. Recommended Personnel Actions: Employment, Resignations, Retirement, Dismissals,Leaves of Absence, Change of Status: i. Personnel Actions: Employment, Resignations, Retirement, Dismissals, Leavesof Absence, Change of Status: 1. Approve leave of absence from Rosie Martinez, purchasing agent,effective December 10, 2010 through December 31, 2010.2. Approve full-time employment of Helena Galvin, school nurse, for the2010-2011 school year. X. Board Member Requests re Agenda Items and Future Agenda Items
February 12, 2011 - Through the Eyes of an Artist: Tours of the sculptures in the Garden. (Tour times: 10, 12:15, 1pm, 3:15) This is a unique exhibition of talented artists displaying their sculptural creations throughout our lush and natural 36-acre setting. Through April 18, 2011, sixteen artists are displaying a range of sculptures set against the beautiful backdrop of dragon trees, fruit gardens, bamboo groves, and many more unique garden areas as part of Sculpture in the Garden. For kids and the young-at-heart: Make a community sculpture using recycled materials. 10 am - 2 pm Panel Discussions: Session One: 11:00 am – 12 noon Call: 760 436-3036 (Editor's Note: Ah-Ha Rancho Santa Fe News has given Mr. Bilbray -- or rather his office, since they are the gatekeepers -- numerous opportunities to respond to questions about his votes with no response. Following Mr. Bilbray's non-vote on the DREAM ACT, we print Tracy Emblem's view and invite any responses. -- Dan Weisman) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
North County's Biggest Hypocrite By Tracy Emblem Mirror, Mirror on the Wall - Who is the Biggest Hypocrite representing us in Congress - Of All? It's North County's Congressman Brian Bilbray. He Chairs the House Immigration Reform Caucus. He uses the media to bash immigration, immigrants and the DREAM Act. Bilbray sued to strike down California's version of the DREAM Act which allowed those who meet residency requirements to pay in-state tuition in California. In September, Bilbray made this statement: "The DREAM Act is a nightmare...Giving amnesty to illegal immigrants is not reform, it is an insult to every person going through the immigration process legally." Bilbray wrote an anti-DREAM Act manifesto published in The Hill stating: "Something to consider before casting a vote for the DREAM Act." Bilbray illogically claimed that Congress and the business community share the responsibility for 72 murders of migrant workers in Northern Mexico. Bilbray told Fox News that the Dream Act was really "amnesty." So what action does this anti-amnesty advocate take when he is required to put his action where his mouth is - and vote on the DREAM Act on December 8? HE DOESN'T VOTE AT ALL -
(EDITOR'S NOTE: Congressional voting is provided courtesy of Congress.org. Visit their website at http://www.congress.org/?ref=mv for a comprehensive look at votes and issues in Congress. On a local note, it was of interest that Mr. Bilbray did not vote on the DREAM Act, even though he is chairman of the Republican anti-immigrant caucus, and also opposed Don't Ask, Don't Tell repeal. He voted against school lunch program funding, and did not vote on the continuing resolution to fund government operations. However, he did vote for continued extended unemployment benefits. -- Dan Weisman)
Continuing Resolution - Vote Passed (212-206, 16 Not Voting) DREAM Act - Vote Passed (216-198, 20 Not Voting)
Continuing Resolution - Vote Passed (239-178, 16 Not Voting)
Telework Improvements Act - Vote Passed (254-152, 27 Not Voting) Emergency Unemployment Compensation Continuation Act - Vote Failed (258-154, 22 Not Voting) State of the Rancho Santa Fe Nation: Updating Ah-Ha Rancho Santa Fe News
1. The Santa Fe Irrigation District's water rate increase has prompted serious questions in the community. What's more, executive director Michael Bardin recently was revealed to receive at least $272,000 annual salary --- $100,000 more than U.S. senators and congressmen earn annually. We're looking into whether the justifications for the rate increase were legitimate and why Bardin gets such a large salary. 2. The Rancho Santa Fe Foundation administers numerous multimillion dollar requests intended to benefit the community. However, long-time executive director Christie Wilson apparently looks at these funds as her own private domain -- a sort of personal slush fund -- to distribute to friends rather than as a contribution to the health, and positive direction, of the community. We are investigating Wilson's credentials as well as why, and how, she has maintained her position despite questions about her competency. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- On other fronts, the beta test system used here is scheduled to cease operating around February. Neighborlogs has broken up as a company with its founder leaving and future operations keyed to maintaining Seattle blog ad networks. We are deciding on a new CMS for export. Saturday, Dec. 18 was a great day for us with a record-busting 4,000 page views, 2,200 unique visitors shattering our old marks. We're now getting 3,000 daily views with visitors looking at an average of around 1.7 stories a session. [Hey, you guys looking at .7 stories, step it up some :).] Considering Rancho Santa Fe has 4,500 residents, we are one of the most successful community news sites in the nation with a per capita resident penetration second to none. We intend to monetize the site in the new year, so we may continue to provide the state-of-the-art Web native journalism that will be prevalent during the next decade in the nation. And, oh, by the way, since the Rancho Santa Fe Review last month moved its offices to Carmel Valley and the Coast News is based at Encinitas, we are now the only Rancho Santa Fe-based media source. As you have seen, we are by far the best. Our site traffic is 25 times greater than the RSF Review, and 50 times greater than the Coast News' Rancho Santa Fe site. As always, thanks for your interest and support. It's a pleasure and a privilege to provide the real deal in community journalism. -- Dan Weisman, founder/editor Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District moving offices to Cielo Village Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District's main administrative offices are scheduled to move early next year to a site at Cielo Village on Calle Ambiente off Del Dios Highway, the Rancho Santa Fe fire chief confirmed this week. Offices currently are at 16936 El Fuego, next to Rancho Santa Fe's R. Roger Rowe School at the Village. An official announcement is expected mid-January. "We are purchasing a building that is being built to suit," fire chief Tony Michel said on Tuesday. "This gives us more room for growth and solves our parking issues." The new office is around 6,000-square feet, somewhat larger than the current facility, and more central to total operations in the district tat includes Rancho Santa Fe, 4S Ranch, and Del Dios, according to Michel. He would not disclose the building purchase price, pending conclusion of negotiations between fire district leaders and Cielo management. A postal store in the building will be relocated to another Cielo location, he said. Sources at Cielo Village and the fire agency on Monday confirmed the move, details of which will be forthcoming. Construction continued this week on remodeling the Cielo pod that once had been scheduled to be a Harvest Ranch Market outlet. These photos show the state of the new facility.
That's not all for district moves. The rebuilt Fairbanks Ranch Fire Station continues on schedule for a May opening. "The contracted completion date of May 2011 is still on schedule pending any unforeseen delays," fire officials said. The Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District was formed on Oct. 14, 1946 under an order adopted by the County Board of Supervisors. At the time, the Fire District was comprised of one Chief and 15 volunteer suppression personnel who protected an estimated 3,800 residents.
The Fire District is governed by a five-person elected Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for establishing policies, guidelines and providing direction for Fire District staff. Board meetings are held the second Wednesday of each month at 1:00 p.m.
For a comprehensive look at the department's history, visit the official web site: http://www.rsf-fire.org/about/history.html.
(Photo above: current department offices) Why the Bush-Era Tax Cuts Should Not be Extended to the Nation's Top 2-percent
Later this year in September, President Obama signed a "Small Business" bill which included several tax breaks. Some of the tax breaks are: An Immediate Expense on Capital Investments. One provision increased to $500,000 the amount of investments that businesses would be allowed to write for 2010 and 2011, while raising the level of investments at which the write-off phases out to $2 million. Zero Capital Gains Taxes on Certain Investments. Another provision bestows tax relief to over one million small businesses eligible to receive capital gains breaks, and if the investments are held for five years or longer, the transactions could be completely excluded from capital gains taxation. Carry-back of General Business Credits. The bill provides a five-year offset of general business credits providing businesses with a tax break this year and also allowing credits to offset the Alternative Minimum Tax, reducing taxes. Extension of the 50% Bonus Depreciation. The bill extends a 50-percent "bonus depreciation" through 2010, giving 2 million businesses, large and small, tax cuts this year by accelerating the rate at which they deduct capital expenditures.
A Deduction for Health Insurance for Self-Employed. Over 2 million will be able to deduct the cost of health insurance for themselves and their family members in calculating self-employment taxes. The Bush era tax cuts helped contribute to our ballooning deficit. David Stockman, a conservative Republican, who was director of the Office of Management and Budget under President Reagan, said he believes that Reagan would not have supported extending the Bush tax cuts of today. Stockman told National Public Radio this August that extending the tax cuts would be akin to a bankruptcy filing by Congress and the White House. Let's give the new legislation which provides tax breaks and job incentives for "small businesses" time to work before blindly accepting McConnell's argument that allowing the Bush-era tax cuts to expire would hurt small businesses. We must start closing the deficit gap. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tracy Emblem is an appellate attorney who has lived in Escondido since 1964. She received her law degree from National University School of Law in 1989, after working at the California Attorney General’s office, writs and appeals division. Working closely with her longtime husband, attorney Thor Emblem, she supervises the civil research on the firm’s major cases and has authored numerous civil and criminal writs and appeals which have been published in the California courts. Known for solving seemingly impossible cases, special writs of habeas corpus. Tracy ran as a candidate in the June 2010 California Democratic primary for the 50th Congressional District's nomination and lost despite building many coalitions and receiving many state and national endorsements for a first time candidate. Tracy often writes about important issues facing our communities and nation. Contact her at tracy@emblemlaw.com. Tracy Emblem Takes On Drugs -- Out-Sourcing Pharmaceuticals Can Be Dangerous
Most Americans would be shocked to learn that India and China have become main suppliers of low-cost drugs and drug ingredients. Up to 40% of the drugs Americans take are now imported, and up to 80% of the active pharmaceutical ingredients in drugs are manufactured by companies in foreign countries. By 2013, China is expected to be the third largest pharmaceutical market in the world and India is close behind China because the U.S. is India's top export customer. Foreign manufacturing of our nation's drugs poses a risk to consumers because the Food and Drug Administration rarely conducts quality-control inspections in foreign countries. In June 2007, the Washington Post reported: "Over the past seven years, amid explosive growth in imports from India and China, the FDA conducted only about 200 inspections of plants in those countries, and a few were the kind that U.S. firms face regularly to ensure that the drugs they make are of high quality." These foreign markets allow clinical trials and drugs to be developed cheaper, but does it come at a sacrifice to safety? According to Chemistry Manufacturers & Affiliates, many active pharmaceutical ingredients that are produced in foreign facilities are rarely inspected by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, especially ingredients used in over-the-counter drugs.
Consumers do not know if a medication or its ingredients was produced abroad because there is no country of origin labeling requirements. NBC News recently reported that Glaxo-Smith-Kline has agreed to pay $750 million to settle a Justice Department's claim that the company sold adulterated and improperly made drugs produced by its former drug manufacturing plant in Cidra, Puerto Rico. GSK's subsidiary agreed to plead guilty to allegations that "the plant churned out medications that were mislabeled, mixed up in the wrong packaging, and even defective -- made either too weak or too strong. The defects affected such popular prescription drugs as the antidepressant Paxil and the ointment Bactroban, used to treat skin infections." In June, Pfizer recalled three I.V. products manufactured in India after floating matter was found in plastic IV bags. Who can forget the deaths and allergic reactions that occurred when contaminated heparin, used to thin blood, was produced in China and sold in the U.S. The New York Times reported that people had difficulty breathing, and suffered nausea, vomiting, excessive sweating and rapidly falling blood pressure. In some cases the defective heparin led to life-threatening shock. Years ago, Congress was forewarned that foreign drugs foisted on the public might not be safe. In 2003, William Hubbard, an associate commissioner of the FDA testified before a subcommittee of the House Committee on Government Reform. He explained the public health threats posed by the importation of unapproved, adulterated and misbranded drugs, as well as counterfeit drugs from foreign and domestic sources. Unfortunately, Congress ignored the testimony and has been increasingly willing to let pharmaceutical companies out-source our nation's drug supply. The out-sourced drugs may be expired, subpotent, contaminated or counterfeit product, a contraindicated product, an incorrect dose, or a medication which is not accompanied by adequate directions for use. Consumers then face risks of dangerous drug interactions and other serious health consequences. Out-sourcing drugs is a supply-safety risk too. For example, when the heparin outbreak recalls were unexpectedly announced, there were serious concerns about whether we would have enough heparin to meet patient needs as a result of the contamination. National security is an important component in considering the continued practice of out-sourcing our nation's drug supply. In December 2007, an article in the Kansas City Star reported: "Consider this scenario: If a major anthrax attack were to occur in the United States - larger than the one in 2001, when five people died - pharmaceutical companies that make the two antibiotics most suitable for treatment, Cipro and doxycycline, would have no choice but to rely on China or India for key ingredients once American stockpiles were exhausted. Those ingredients no longer are made in the West." If this is true, where has Congress's oversight been hiding during the wholesale outsourcing of the nation's drug supply? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tracy Emblem is an appellate attorney who has lived in Escondido since 1964. She received her law degree from National University School of Law in 1989, after working at the California Attorney General’s office, writs and appeals division. Working closely with her longtime husband, attorney Thor Emblem, she supervises the civil research on the firm’s major cases and has authored numerous civil and criminal writs and appeals which have been published in the California courts. Known for solving seemingly impossible cases, special writs of habeas corpus. Tracy ran as a candidate in the June 2010 California Democratic primary for the 50th Congressional District's nomination and lost despite building many coalitions and receiving many state and national endorsements for a first time candidate. Tracy often writes about important issues facing our communities and nation. Contact her at tracy@emblemlaw.com.
Tracy Emblem Takes On Political Corruption - Brian Bilbray's Back-Room Dealings
According to an "Issue Paper" posted on Project Vote Smart's website attributed to Congressman Brian Bilbray (R-CA) - he took issue with "Ending the Back Room Deals." Bilbray said: "One of the major reasons I ran for Congress...was because I got sick and tired of watching the Republican Congress and their special interest cronies cut backroom deals for more spending and less accountability. Now that I'm back here I can see what is going on. Let me be blunt: special interests have too much influence in Washington... whether it's Republicans in charge or Democrats. It's high time Congress started operating in the light of day again. No more 'you scratch my back I'll scratch yours' deals. Public service is an honor and a duty, and our elected officials must be held to the highest ethical standards." Bilbray sponsored the Washington DC Congressional Cigar Association. San Diego Channel 10 News reports that Bilbray introduced HR 5615, which benefits medical device manufacturers. Congressional Cigar Association Board Member and Lobbyist Jeff Choudhry was involved with the Club's cigar meetings and just happens to lobby for a company that represents a large medical device manufacturer. Bilbray's bill was sponsored five days after the Washington DC Congressional Cigar Association gathered for an event. Last month, Bilbray cowardly refused to answer questions about his role in the Congressional Cigar Club by claiming he was tied up with family issues. Where is Bilbray's purported transparency and high ethical standards now?
What kind of influence can $23,600 buy? On April 21, 2010, Congressman Bilbray received $23,600 in campaign donations from Millenium Laboratories Inc. Just what would induce (1) Howard Appel, President Millenium Laboratories, Inc. ($2,400); (2) Renee Bryan, VP Marketing Millenium Laboratories, Inc. ($1,000); (3) David Cohen, COO Millenium Laboratories Inc. ($4,800); (4) Dr. Charles Mickel, Chief Scientific Officer Millenium Laboratories, Inc. ($1,000); (5) Dr. Murray Rosenthal, CMO Millenium Laboratories, Inc. ($4,800); (5) James Slattery, CEO Millenium Laboratories, Inc. ($4,800) and (6) Jane Slattery, Nurse Educator Millenium Laboratories, Inc. ($4,800) to individually donate a total of $23,600 on April 21? Sure looks and smells like a special corporate interest day for Millenium Laboratories Inc. Voters in California's 50th District, do we have another "Duke" on our hands? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tracy Emblem is an appellate attorney who has lived in Escondido since 1964. She received her law degree from National University School of Law in 1989, after working at the California Attorney General’s office, writs and appeals division. Working closely with her longtime husband, attorney Thor Emblem, she supervises the civil research on the firm’s major cases and has authored numerous civil and criminal writs and appeals which have been published in the California courts. Known for solving seemingly impossible cases, special writs of habeas corpus. Tracy ran as a candidate in the June 2010 California Democratic primary for the 50th Congressional District's nomination and lost despite building many coalitions and receiving many state and national endorsements for a first time candidate. Tracy often writes about important issues facing our communities and nation. Contact her at tracy@emblemlaw.com Conservative San Diego Union Tribune refuses to endorse incumbent Brian Bilbray in 50th Congressional District race as clock strikes midnight Friday, Oct. 1...
The San Diego Union Tribune has a tradition of ultra-conservative "thought" dating to its inception. Top officials of the Nixon Administration came from its ranks. The newspaper endorsed George Bush in the 2000 election. The Union Tribune also endorsed Brian Bilbray to represent Rancho Santa Fe's 50th Congressional District to replace the disgraced Randy "Duke Cunningham" whom the newspaper had endorsed consistently in the 1990s and until his bribery and conspiracy troubles became public knowledge around 2003. However, when the clock struck midnight Friday, Oct. 1, the Union Tribune editorial board flipped a coin, threw up its anonymously collective hands and declared, we cant decide -- er, ah, grr, ugh -- we don't want anyone, you make the call.
Titled Bilbray, Busby: A question of values, the editorial board said: "Choosing between Rep. Brian Bilbray, R-Solana Beach, and Cardiff school board member Francine Busby probably won’t be difficult for most voters in the 50th Congressional District, given that this is a rematch of the 2006 campaign and that the political dynamics have not changed significantly since then. "Those who admire Bilbray’s high-profile stance against illegal immigrants and his fealty to Republican causes will be quick to back his re-election. The choice also will be easy for those who consider him a demagogue who hasn’t fully internalized the need to be squeaky-clean and above ethical questions as the successor to disgraced former lawmaker Randy “Duke” Cunningham. "As an editorial page that has long supported sweeping, comprehensive immigration reform and believes that a fair amount of the criticism Bilbray faces is appropriate, we cannot endorse him as we have in the past." The faceless board went on to critique Busby, the Democrat saying, " We also have fundamental doubts about Busby. She appears more knowledgeable about big issues than in her 2006 campaign and has an agreeable style that we suspect would play well in Washington. But beyond her strong support for local biotechnology firms, Busby seems indistinguishable from the California Democratic lawmakers...." To read the entire editorial follow this link: http://tiny.cc/ww0qz.
Solana Beach Cedros Design District Feeling Pinch; Will Eat, Drink Places Make It Merry? Have you heard, the recession is over -- or so sez the National Bureau of Economic Research, the official arbiter of national economic cycle naming rights -- and that's something to toast around Solana Beach, hopefully.
A new urban winery that hit the Cedros Avenue pavement this month combined with an art gallery/wine tasting room/bistro due to open next summer signals a change in the overall ambiance along Cedros Avenue, according to officials. They hope more food and drink opportunities will open up some wallets and purses in retail respects. “We think part of the Cedros experience as it moves forward in the coming months and years is going to be additional wine bars, cafes, sidewalk bistros, that kind of small, charming deal," said Sean MacLeod, a former musician turned developer who assembled the leadership for the Cedros Design District in 1992-1993 along with Dave Hodges, co-owner of Belly-Up Tavern at the time.
Cedros Avenue acounted for $126,947 in sales-tax revenue in the fall quarter of 2006. In the same time period of 2009, it generated $75,685, according to city financial statements released this week. This compared to the nearby Highway 101 corridor which brought in $122,672 through sales taxes in the fall quarter, 2006 that dropped to $95,583 in the fall quarter, 2009. The Cedros Avenue district, as we all know, contains high-end jewelry and furniture stores, cafes, nurseries, galleries, health and beauty stores and the Belly-up Tavern, among other establishments.
Hodges opened the Belly-Up in 1974. McLeod moved to the area from Los Angeles in 1990 and together, along with 50 shopkeepers and property owners, started working with the city to shape up South Cedros. They led the Design District movement that evolved through the 1980s and took shape in 1993 as 50 shopkeepers and property owners formed the Cedros Design District Association. So, in came bold, unexpected colors and building conversions. Out went manufacturing complexes and swampy backwater stores, as well as vacant structures. Now bustling with design industry types and art galleries, the 444 Building was a rocket-parts manufacturing facility. Wooden handcrafted furniture and Grecian vases replaced nuts, bolts and barbershops. Highway and overhanging gateway street signs went up, about $350,000 worth of sidewalks, curbs, gutters and other street improvements went in, and city officials changed zoning designations to "special commercial" to encourage continued development. Solana Beach sold bonds to help finance South Cedros improvements that property owners agreed to pay back over a 20-year period. Upcoming Congressional Bills
In Washington: Rep. Brian Bilbray (R-Carlsbad) still is refusing to talk about the cigar club parties he and his senior staff attended and what, if any, discussions they had with lobbyists at the soirées. His spokesman, Fritz Chaleff, did not return phone calls on Friday and today seeking an interview with the congressman.-- Brooke Williams, SDSU Watchdog Institute
Government ethics experts called for the congressman’s office to be open about Staff Congressional Cigar Association activities after the Watchdog Institute reported Bilbray had advanced bills that would benefit the clients of some lobbyists connected to the club. The editorial board of the San Diego Union-Tribune also demanded transparency. Bilbray’s senior policy adviser, Gary Kline, is an officer of the club. He also has not returned calls seeking an interview. In July, the Huffington Post first reported lobbyists were on the board of the club and involved in hosting its parties. The cigar association is one of 20 House-approved staff groups. Bilbray sponsored it in April 2009. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Brooke Williams is assigned by the SDSU Watchdog Institute to cover the San Diego congressional delegation in Washington D.C. and can be reached atbrookewilliams@watchdoginstitute.org or 202-615-3551.
A public hearing on the latest proposed round of rate increases is scheduled for 8:30 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 21 at district headquarters, 5920 Linea del Cielo, Rancho Santa Fe. District officials want to raise the rates because the rates they pay for water emanating from regional distributor, the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California have been rising that much, according to Michael Bardin, the district general manager. According to Bardin and district directors: "In recent years, several factors have impacted the cost and availability of imported water supplies. The State has been in a multi-year drought and the Colorado River system is experiencing a nine year drought. Major reservoirs are at historic lows and pumping restrictions in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta have been imposed to protect the Delta Smelt and Chinook Salmon.
The district imports 70 percent of its water from the Metropolitan Water District. The other 30 percent comes mainly from Lake Hodges. That water must be treated heavily to remove debris. The Santa Fe Irrigation District provides water to about 22,500 residents and businesses in Rancho Santa Fe, Solana Beach and most of Fairbanks Ranch, officials say. The average residential customer uses 63 units of water per month, and each unit equals 748 gallons, according to officials.
Under the proposal, a customer who uses 60 units of water per month would see bill issued every other month increase from the current $216 to $242 in 2011, $271 in 2012 and $303 in 2013. See the attached pdf file for more information on the rate rise proposal and public hearing.
from Carlsbad...Bilbray busy with family matters
Bilbray’s mother, who was 90, died in May. He is in charge of her estate, Chaleff said. The congressman also met with constituents, community groups and other organizations while he was on the West Coast, Chaleff said. On Wednesday morning, the Watchdog Institute asked Chaleff which groups the congressman met with, but as of publication, Chaleff said he was still working on getting the information. Bilbray’s website mentions one meeting: In August, he spoke at a rally outside his Solana Beach office organized by members of Americans for Prosperity, a group that lobbies for less government spending. Bilbray will be back in Washington next week, Chaleff said, and plans to focus on the economy and immigration reform. -- Brooke Williams, SDSU Watchdog Institute
from Cardiff...Busby to Bilbray: What 9/11 memorial?
Some also may recall the media senation over the bill in late July when New York congressman Anthony Weiner went on the offensive on the House floor critiquing Republicans, in general, for being hypocrites, saying they claimed to support 9/11 first responder aid while placing procedural roadblocks in front of the bill.
"Rep. Bilbray seems to have forgotten these sacrifices," Busby said. "As he holds a memorial for the 9/11 first responders, he hopes that nobody will pay attention to the fact that he voted against the ‘James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act.’ He voted to deny tens of thousands of first responders and rescuers healthcare and compensation for loss and illness caused by the toxic dust at Ground Zero. “This is unacceptable and the fact that Rep. Bilbray is holding a memorial for the same individuals he deprived of healthcare is outrageous. It shows his true colors: one face for Washington, and another face for his district. The rejection of this bill is a tragedy. However, in addition to committing a disservice against some of our Nation’s greatest patriots, it also makes a troubling statement about Brian Bilbray’s moral compass, or lack there of. “Congressman Bilbray’s 9-11 rally with local firefighters stands in stark contrast to his vote to deny the healthcare first responders desperately need to cope with the debilitating illnesses that resulted from their selfless heroism. His shameful vote does not represent the values and patriotism of the people in the 50th District," Busby said. -- Ah-Ha Rancho Santa Fe News
from Sacramento...Garrick blasts Dems budget dilly-dallying
"Californians have a right to be frustrated. But they also need to be aware of what is holding things up. The budget stalemate revolves around two simple questions. Should taxpayers pay more to fund big government when the economy and state revenues decline? Or, should lawmakers force the bureaucracy to reduce overspending and live within its means? "This week, competing budget plans were up for public discussion and a vote in the Legislature. The Republicans presented a budget that sets priorities and preserves funding for education and public safety; reduces wasteful spending we can't afford; and doesn't raise taxes on working Californians. "The Democrats presented a budget that spends billions more than we did last year, even though the state is bleeding red ink; doesn't root out waste, fraud and abuse; and includes massive middle-class tax hikes on income, cars, oil and jobs," Garrick said.
-- Ah-Ha Rancho Santa Fe News
from Vista...Issa busy sending letters critical of Obama
Issa, who is ranking member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, is seen as the Hill’s head antagonist of the White House. Since mid-August he has written at least two letters, two news releases and an opinion column criticizing how the administration is overseeing issues such as food safety and the Gulf oil spill. Last week, for instance, he sent a letter to the Obama-appointed chairman of a board charged with overseeing how the government distributes stimulus dollars. He asked for an investigation of possible violations. Issa pointed to a portion of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that prohibits using the money for a casino, aquarium, zoo, golf course or swimming pool. Then he listed five projects around the country where he says taxpayer money paid for activities at each of those types of facilities. None are in San Diego County. For instance, he wrote, “AARA funds were provided to students “at Fortune Bay Resort & Casino to get hands on experience in various departments within the resort and casino at our Career Expo Day.” If Republicans win the House this fall, Issa will become chairman of the House oversight committee and have power to subpoena the administration during investigations. He will be back on the Hill next week when Congress reconvenes. - Brooke Williams, SDSU Watchdog Institute FRANCINE BUSBY, DEMOCRATIC NOMINEE FOR CONGRESS, RESPONDS TO THE FINDINGS OF THE WATCHDOG INSTITUTE RE: REP. BILBRAY’S CIGAR SCANDAL; CALLS FOR PRESS CONFERENCE “I’m hardly surprised to hear of the Watchdog Institute’s findings in regard to Rep. Bilbray’s intimate relationship with lobbyists through the Congressional Cigar Association. Ever since these unethical actions have come to light, Rep. Bilbray and those who speak for him have been strategically vague or have declined to comment in regard to the purported improprieties. The Watchdog Institute report acknowledges this and concludes with a call for increased transparency. As an elected official, Rep. Bilbray owes it to the citizens he represents to be both honest and forthcoming. His silence and closed-door tactics beg the question: if he has nothing to hide, then why is he being so dismissive and secretive?
TO VIEW THE ORIGINAL WATCHDOG INSTITUTE PRESENTATION VISIT: http://tiny.cc/07g74
In the months after Rep. Brian Bilbray sponsored a Congressional cigar club—where politicians and their staffers have puffed and partied with lobbyists around D.C.—he introduced or lent his name to legislation that would benefit some of those lobbyists’ clients. In one instance, Bilbray sponsored a bill that would eliminate a tax on medical devices. He introduced that bill five days after the cigar club held an exclusive, rooftop event at a building across the street from the Capitol in late June. Bilbray’s spokesman wouldn’t say if the congressman or his senior staff attended that event or any other cigar club get-togethers, but Jeff Choudhry, who lobbies for a large medical device manufacturer and other interests, was a board member of the club at the time. Choudhry and other lobbyists did not return numerous calls about whether they attended the events. “That’s all outside of official stuff,” Fritz Chaleff, Bilbray’s communication’s chief, said. “I certainly would love to be able to give you that kind of information, but I just don’t have it.” The Watchdog Institute, an independent investigative reporting center based at San Diego State University, combed through lobbying reports, corporate financial records, legislative actions, campaign finance data and the personal financial disclosures of Bilbray and his staff in the weeks since the Huffington Post first reported that lobbyists had key roles in the House-sanctioned Staff Congressional Cigar Association, a possible violation of ethics rules. The cigar association is one of 20 official Congressional Staff Organizations, which are meant to promote networking among congressional staff. Most cater to certain groups and interests, such as the Congressional Hispanic Staff Association, the Capitol Hill Bible Study Staff Association, the House Chiefs of Staff Association and the Congressional Golf Staff Association.
Chaleff said the congressman’s only involvement with the cigar association was sponsoring it last year. He said Bilbray intended to encourage networking among Democratic and Republican staffers. Even though a member of Congress must sponsor these organizations, and the House ethics committee must approve events, basic details about their activities are not public. None of the cigar club’s officers—including Bilbray’s senior policy advisor, Gary Kline—returned the Watchdog Institute’s phone calls or e-mails asking for the dates and locations of events. Chaleff said cigar parties were “just kind of FYI events” for Bilbray in which someone would say, “‘hey, by the way, this is going on tonight if you want to stop by.’” Asked whether he personally attended the rooftop party, Chaleff recalled being there. He said he did not, however, remember if Bilbray or Kline were at that soirée. “We certainly don’t monitor the social lives of staff,” he said. Chaleff said Bilbray declined to be interviewed for this story.
(Photo left: The cigar club held an event on the rooftop of this building, which is across the street from the Capitol.) In July, Bilbray’s democratic challenger in the November election, Francine Busby, called for the Office of Congressional Ethics to investigate whether lobbyist involvement in the club violated ethics rules. A spokesman for the ethics office said it doesn’t confirm or deny the existence of any investigation. Craig Holman, an expert in government ethics and lobbyist for Public Citizen, a nonprofit government watchdog, said clubs like the cigar association “are supposed to be just members of Congress and congressional staff getting together when they want to discuss pertinent issues.” “If Congressman Bilbray has turned it into a lobbying entity, that would be a very obvious and egregious violation of ethics rules,” Holman said. There is nothing illegal, however, about Bilbray sponsoring bills that could benefit lobbyists’ clients. Experts say the key is transparency. But unless Bilbray or his staff agree to talk about which events they attended, who was there and what was discussed, there is no way to know how lobbyists might have used cigar club parties as a venue to influence Bilbray’s actions on the House floor. Dave Levinthal, spokesman for the Center for Responsive Politics, a nonprofit organization that tracks money in federal politics, said lobbying is a multi-billion industry—that is growing—so it must be effective. “If it didn’t work people wouldn’t do it,” he said. “If it didn’t work really well people wouldn’t spend incredible amounts of money to do it.” He said it could be a lot harder for a member of Congress to say no to a lobbyist after they’ve had dinner and drinks. “Politics is a very human arena,” he said. “Those types of relationships often can go a long way even if the result of those relationships isn’t necessarily aligning with the public interest.” Public Citizen’s Holman was disturbed to hear that Bilbray and Kline, his senior policy advisor who is a cigar club officer, wouldn’t discuss the events. “He is not living up to transparency,” Holman said. “You should be able to call the officer of the caucus and ask, and they should tell you—if they won’t tell you, they are covering something up.” Connections between Bilbray, the lobbyists and their clients are not readily apparent. So far, none of the lobbyists involved in the cigar group have reported giving money to Bilbray’s campaign, though disclosure reports showing donations made on or after July 1 are not yet publicly available. Some of the lobbyists’ clients have Political Action Committees that have reported giving to Bilbray’s campaign. The NRA’s PAC, for instance, has given Bilbray $2,500 so far this election cycle, according to federal election data analyzed by the Center for Responsive Politics. Pharmaceutical companies that employ lobbyists involved in the cigar club also have donated to Bilbray through their PACs. From 2007 through 2008, Baxter Healthcare Corp. gave $2,000 and Eli Lilly and Co. gave $2,500. The Watchdog Institute investigated the corporate clients of lobbyists the Huffington Post reported to be involved in the cigar club and found that Bilbray has sponsored and supported legislation that would benefit them. Tax repeal On June 28, five days after the cigar club held a party across the street from the Capitol, Bilbray sponsored a bill to repeal the 2.3% tax on the sale of medical devices, which is to begin in 2013 as part of the new health care law. Choudhry is a lobbyist for Baxter Healthcare, a publicly traded company based in Illinois that specializes in medical devices and products. In reports to shareholders, Baxter has stated that this tax is among the “most significant impacts” of the health care law to the company financially. Choudhry is director of legislative affairs for the Nickles Group, a firm of Washington insiders headed by former Sen. Don Nickles. Nickles Group began lobbying for Baxter early this year, around the same time Choudhry joined the firm. So far, Nickles reports receiving $115,000 in lobbying fees from Baxter. When Bilbray wrote a letter to the House Administration Committee requesting approval of the cigar club in February 2009, he listed Choudhry as one of two officers. At the time, Choudhry was a staffer to Rep. Trent Franks (R-Ariz.) Chaleff said Bilbray introduced this bill to prevent an increase in the cost of health care nationally and to preserve jobs. He said about 76,000 people are employed in the medical device manufacturing industry in California. The bill, which has three co-sponsors, is pending in the House Committee on Appropriations. Limiting lawsuits In July of this year, Bilbray was one of 29 co-sponsors of a bill that would limit the liability of medical companies if a product has approval of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Rep. Phil Gingrey, (R-Ga.) who introduced the bill, employed a cigar club officer as his communications director until recently. The issue of whether medical companies should be liable for FDA-approved products got nationwide attention in 2007 when actor Dennis Quaid sued Baxter alleging his newborn twins received 1,000 times the correct dose of a blood thinner because the labels on high and low doses of the drug were similar, a problem Baxter had acknowledged. Baxter argued the lawsuit should be dismissed because the FDA had approved the drug and its labels. The court in Illinois, where Baxter is headquartered, dismissed the first case. Quaid filed another lawsuit in California this year. Deborah Spak, spokeswoman for Baxter, said the company did not lobby or take a formal position on the legislation Bilbray co-sponsored. Chaleff said Bilbray supported this bill because “the practice of defensive medicine and the ever-increasing costs of liability coverage to doctors put unnecessary costs into our nation’s health care system.” The bill is pending in the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Seat at the table In May 2009, Bilbray was one of seven Republicans among 63 co-sponsors of a bill to give the pharmaceutical and medical device industry three seats on a 21-member board that would review the effectiveness of therapies to determine whether Medicare and perhaps private insurance companies would pay for them. Steve Irizarry, who helped to plan cigar club events according to the Huffington Post, lobbies on behalf of six pharmaceutical companies. Some of his clients pushed for industry seats on the drug review board—exactly what the legislation Bilbray co-sponsored would provide. One of Irizarry’s clients—Eli Lilly and Co.—was closely involved in the development of the bill, said Greg Kueterman, a company spokesman. “It includes many of the protections that the company would be interested in as well as the industry,” he said. “It was shaped up the way that we liked it.” Spak, spokeswoman for Baxter, said the company “interacted with members of Congress” on this bill “to help ensure that patients with rare diseases are protected and will continue to have access to therapy.” Irizarry did not return phone calls or an e-mail seeking an interview. Chaleff said Bilbray co-sponsored this bill because he “believes that bureaucrats should not be making health care decisions for American citizens.” The bill is pending in the House Energy and Commerce Committee. NRA support Chuck Cunningham, lobbyist for the National Rifle Association, also is involved in the cigar club, according to the Huffington Post. In the time since Bilbray sponsored the cigar club last year, he has lent his name to at least three bills that Cunningham specifically reported lobbying on, as well as other pro-gun legislation. The month before he sought approval of the cigar association, Bilbray co-sponsored two more bills that Cunningham lobbied on. For instance, in October 2009, Bilbray was one of 18 co-sponsors of a bill that would loosen the law governing which former law enforcement officials can carry concealed weapons. Cunningham reported lobbying on this legislation, which would give retired officers of the Amtrak Police Department, Federal Reserve System, the executive branch, and the Armed Forces the right to carry concealed weapons. It also would give retired law enforcement officers the right to carry weapons in school zones. The bill is pending in the House Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security. “Congressman Bilbray has a long track record of supporting the 2nd Amendment,” Chaleff said. Brooke Williams is assigned to cover the San Diego congressional delegation in Washington D.C. and can be reached atbrookewilliams@watchdoginstitute.org or 202-615-3551.
The actual number of debates, dates, times and venues remain to be negotiated. Bilbray, in June, invited Busby to three debates. Venues he proposed included the Del Mar Optimist Club, conservative talk radio host Rick Amato's show and at a television station "by a mutually agreed to affiliate." Bilbray didn't propose any dates or times. In accepting Bilbray's debate invitation, Busby offered a four-debate card at different venues. She asked for a 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 20 debate at Cal State San Marcos moderated by a newspaper editor. A second debate would take place in October at NBC 7/30, moderated by Gene Cubbison or another station newsperson. A third debate, date and time to be determined, would occur on KPBS public radio. The final debate would be hosted "by the area town councils of the 50th District" and moderated by the League of Women Voters. What's unusual about the entire scenario, according to analysts, including Dr. Gary Jacobsen, a nationally recognized expert on congressional elections who teaches political science at UC San Diego, is that the incumbent, Bilbray, initially asked for the debates. Usually, the challenger in catch-up mode wants to debate. Bilbray's motives may include confidence he will win the debates or attempts to broaden his base since state congressional boundary redistricting takes place following the election, according to Jacobsen This is the fourth, and presumably title match, between Bilbray and Busby in the ever-intriguing 50th District that extends from La Jolla to Carlsbad and Rancho Santa Fe to Escondido. Bilbray succeeded the infamous Rancho Santa Fe Republican congressman Randy "Duke" Cunningham, sentenced in 2006 to eight years at federal prison after pleading guilty to accepting at least $2.4 million in bribes as well as federal charges of fraud and tax evasion. Cunningham is at the minimum-security satellite camp at the United States Penitentiary in Tucson. Bilbray, who represented a South County congressional district from 1995 to 2001 before losing to current congresswoman Susan Davis, became a Washington lobbyist before returning to electoral politics in 2006. In the race to succeed Cunningham, Bilbray won the Republican primary in the Republican-majority district with under 50 percent of the vote, then beat Busby in a special election with 49 percent of the vote to Busby's 45 percent. Bilbray bested Busby again in the regular 2006 election and in the 2008 election. In the latest fundraising report issued June 30 by the Federal Election Commission, Bilbray held a two-to-one funding advantage having raised $915,366 to Busby's $439,954. Most of Bilbray's funds were from conservative political action committees, while Busby's funds were from individual donors. (For more, see the Ah-Ha RSF News article at http://tiny.cc/354zo.) Bilbray initiated the debate proposal exchange with a Dear Francine letter saying, "Congratulations on winning the Democrat Party nomination for Congress for the fourth time. I know we can expect another spirited discussion on the issues and our differing views about the future of our country." The congressman concluded: "It is often said that 'this is one of the most important elections in a lifetime' and never has that been more true than today. We have before us two dramatically different views on the path we should take to protect American exceptionalism and the freedoms that come with it. I look forward to discussing these issues with you and people of the 50th Congressional District." Busby's letter said, "I am pleased to have received your invitation to participate in a series of debates. Vigorous discourse is the very essence of representative democracy and it is critical that our citizens have the opportunity to understand the positions and philosophies of their candidates in order to make informed choices at the polls." "A debate is a rare chance to respond to the concerns and needs of our community in a far-reaching and inclusive forum. I am excited about the opportunity to present our respective ideas and values to the voters of the 50th District. That being said, I would like to propose some alterations to the debate schedule that you and your campaign have suggested," Busby said. 
Solana Santa Fe Elementary welcomed 290+ student 'coyotes' back to school on Monday, Aug. 30 School's California 2010 Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) Results released last week looked good... Solana Santa Fe Elementary School at Fairbanks Ranch opened for business on Monday, Aug. 30 as around 292 students came home to the Coyote lair at El Apajo for another year of learnin' 'bout stuff in the Solana Beach School District. "It’s hard to believe that it is that time of the year again," said Julie Norby, the principal in a note to school parents. "Solana Santa Fe is beginning its eighteenth year...I have no doubt that this will be an exciting year filled with new learning, new friendships and new memories." Each year, the school resounds to a new theme. “If you believe it, you can achieve it!” rings in this year's halls. Solana Santa Fe families participate in several community service projects each year. The latest is a drive to provide much needed school supplies for the foster children at San Pasqual Academy that kicked off this week. Parents and students are dropping off supplies at the school lobby through Sept. 17. The Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) holds its membership drive through next month. The group is seeking to raise up to $200,000 to fund programs no longer covered by state and property taxes, mainly teacher salaries. The PTO also hosts a Back 2 School BBQ at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 10.
In a related story, Solana Santa Fe students did well on California's 2010 Standardized Testing and Reporting (STAR) Program tests for English-Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Science, Life Science and Science. Tests generally were 60 to 65 multiple-choice questions administered this spring with results released last week. Students in grades two through six took the English and math tests, while the science test was given to students in grade five. 2010 STAR Test Results: Solana Santa Fe Elementary School Total Enrollment on First Day of Testing: 293 Total Number Tested: 292
Reported Enrollment
CST English-Language Arts
CST Mathematics
CST Science - Grade 5, Grade 8, and Grade 10 Life Science
Local high schools to start days even earlier this year Despite recent studies showing later starts to school days help students do better, three San Dieguito Union high schools are starting their days slightly earlier next term. San Dieguito Union High School District Board members unanimously voted to pushed forward starting times at Torrey Pines High School, La Costa Canyon High School, and Canyon Crest Academy. Torrey Pines and La Costa Canyon start at 7:40 a.m. during the new school year, down from 7:45 a.m. They end days at 2:35 p.m., instead of 2:30 p.m. The added 10 minutes each day will be used to extend lunch and class-change times five minutes respectively, school officials said. Canyon Crest goes to 8 a.m. from 8:15 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m. instead of 3:15 p.m. The other school in the district, San Dieguito Academy keeps its 7:50 a.m. start time. Several recent studies found teens did worse at school and in life when forced to start school days early. Rhode Island researchers studying a...
The Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District Board didn't have to look far in replacing retiring chief Nick Pavone. Board members had to look just across the meeting table at deputy chief Tony Michel, named new chief on Wednesday, Aug. 11, but officially announced by district officials at noon today, Monday, Aug. 16. “I am very honored and excited to be presented with this opportunity,” Michel said. “I am humbled by the confidence the board of directors has shown in me and, while I know the position comes with many challenges, I am looking forward to serving the fire district in this capacity.” As fire chief, Michel will be responsible for managing the fire protection and life safety resources, said Julie Taber, public affairs officer for the 42-square mile district that protects 29,000 residents from Rancho Santa Fe and Del Dios to 4S Ranch and Del Sur. Michel will provide recommendations and technical staff assistance to the board of directors as well as serve as the district’s finance officer, Taber said. "Chief Michel’s other duties will include implementing and enforcing the rules and regulations governing the fire district, continuing the implementation of the district’s strategic plan, and coordinating activities with other fire and governmental agencies," Taber said.
Michel is a career Rancho Santa Fe firefighter, He began in 1983 as a cadet firefighter, working his way through the ranks to student firefighter, firefighter, engineer, captain, deputy fire marshal CERT program manager and deputy chief of training. Most recently, Michel served as deputy chief for operations. Along the way, he also earned an associate's degree in fire science and California state chief officer certification. He is finishing his bachelor of science degree. Michel succeeds Pavone, the longtime chief who guided operations securing the community during the devastating 2007 Witch Creek Fire among other notable accomplishments. Pavone retires effective Oct. 31, at which time Michel will be installed. The date and time for his installation ceremony will be announced at a later date. Oil-covered rags and paint just don't mix, as residents of a Rancho Santa Fe home on Rancho Viejo Drive found out to the tune of $5,000 worth of fire damage around 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 11, Rancho Santa Fe fire officials said. Solana Beach firefighters under a cooperative agreement with Rancho Santa Fe Fire investigated the incident after the homeowner reported he had extinguished it. Firefighters determined the fire had started spontaneously due to the mixture of oil-soaked rags and paint. "It is important to always properly dispose of work rags that have oil or paint on them, especially if the oil contains linseed oil,” said Cliff Hunter, the Rancho Santa Fe fire marshal. “They should be soaked in a bucket of water or spread out on a clothesline to dry," Hunter said. "Do not throw them in a pile, whether inside or outside.” 
Roll Call sounded at 1:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 9 for the regular monthly meeting of the Rancho Santa Fe Community Services District. Due to renovations taking precedence at the board's usual meeting place at the Rancho Santa Fe Association, directors, and interested parties, trek a short distance to the west to the Santa Fe Irrigation District Board Room, 5920 Lineo del Cielo. The district isn't so much a glamor post, although its board directors represent some of the area's best known civic leaders, as a nitty gritty, nuts-and-bolts community service providing Rancho Santa Fe with sewer collection, treatment and disposal services. The community services district also maintains roadside landscaping along the more than 60 miles of unincorporated San Diego County roads within the Rancho Santa Fe Covenant. Hence, many district directors, past, and present, are known around The Village of Rancho Santa Fe. RSFCSD vice-president Ron McMahon and director Donna Ferrier are past Rancho Santa Fe Association presidents. John Tanner and Dale Nelson have served on the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection Services District board. Dudek environmental and engineering provides management service for the district. Chuck Duffy is general manager and Paula Melendrez is district administrator. District officials may be reached by telephone at (760) 942-5147. The 64-page meeting agenda detailing action items as well as background information is attached here in pdf form. A number of items related to new bonds being issued and financial actions are being considered Monday. Directors are expected to appoint a committee to meet with representatives from Lennar Homes to discuss services at The Lakes development near Crosby Estate off Del Dios Highway. A variety of district management reports also will be discussed.
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