Police sketches released of two suspected of Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. home invasion

Authorities asked the public Wednesday for help in identifying two men who forced their way into a Rancho Santa Fe home five days before Christmas, holding a housekeeper at gunpoint while stealing valuables and handcuffing her before fleeing.

The thieves, suntanned white men who appeared to be in their late 20s or early 30s, confronted the victim at the large house in the 5000 block of El Mirlo shortly after noon on Dec. 20, according to sheriff's officials.

A housekeeper was home when two unknown men – one of whom was armed with a handgun – forced their way inside, holding the housekeeper at gunpoint.

The men allegedly handcuffed the woman to something so she couldn’t call for help while they ransacked the home, stealing jewelry, antique clocks and other expensive items, deputies said.

After gathering jewelry and antiques, the bandits handcuffed the maid to a door to keep her from calling 911, then... (more)

Party hardy goes awry on Los Morros with stabbing, fights, underage drinking and arrests

A party in exclusive Rancho Santa Fe attended by more than 200 people late Friday night led to a stabbing, fights and arrests for disorderly conduct and resisting officers, the San Diego County Sheriff's Department said.

One person was stabbed, another hit with a sheriff's stun gun, and six people arrested at a raucous house party at 17434 Los Morros. 

Deputies said the stabbing suspect got away in the confusion as they arrived just after midnight to a report of a stabbing at a home on the 17400 block of Los Morros, near the intersection of La Bajada, a crossroads just southeast of Encinitas.

The owner of the property on Los Morros was arrested for violating the county's social host ordinance against allowing underage drinking. Deputies used a Taser to arrest one person on the property. Several people younger than 21 were found drunk.

San Diego Sheriff's Sgt. Joe Passalacqua said arriving deputies... (more)

Encinitas fire destroys apartment, send firefighter to the hospital

A fire destroyed the upstairs unit of an Encinitas duplex early Sunday morning and sent one firefighter to the hospital for heat exhaustion, authorities said.

Residents of the building on Cambridge Avenue told firefighters they woke to a crackling sound and a smoke alarm around 1 a.m. and then found a box near their fireplace completely engulfed in flames, said Encinitas Deputy Chief Mike Daigle.

About 25 firefighters and six units responded to battle the blaze. One unit reported seeing flames from the freeway, Daigle said.

All residents escaped unharmed, however one firefighter was later transported to Scripps Memorial Hospital in Encinitas to be treated for heat exhaustion. He was released about two hours later, said Daigle.

He estimated damage to the building at about a half-million dollars, plus about $50,000 for the contents. The upstairs unit was destroyed and the unit downstairs suffered water damage, said Daigle.

By 5 a.m., the... (more)

A motorcyclist was seriously injured in Encinitas Saturday when the rider hit an SUV that was making a U-turn on South Coast Highway 101, sheriff’s officials said.

The driver of a Nissan Pathfinder sport utility vehicle made the U-turn in front of the southbound motorcycle south of Santa Fe Drive about 3 p.m. Saturday.

Sheriff’s officials said the motorcycle rider suffered serious, but not life-threatening injuries, and was taken to a hospital.

Authorities did not release the age or gender of either driver.

Three people were hospitalized Friday afternoon after a crash that occurred near Rancho Santa Fe, authorities said.

A vehicle with four people inside went off the road on Via de la Valle near Las Planideras about 4:42 p.m., said Julie Taber, a spokeswoman for the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District.

The vehicle rolled over but landed on its wheels, according to the California Highway Patrol.

Three of the occupants were able to get out of the vehicle on their own but a fourth person had to be removed by emergency personnel, Taber said.

One of the individuals was taken by helicopter to Scripps Hospital in La Jolla, she said. Two other people were taken to the hospital by ambulance.

One of the occupants declined treatment, Taber said.

Via de la Valle was closed in both directions for a short time, Taber said. The CHP is investigating the crash.

No other information was immediately available.

San Diego Sheriff's crime report for 9/9/2011 - 9/15/2011: 33 local crimes found...

http://www.crimemapping.com/map/region/northcountysandiego

Follow the link above to view the entire mapping tool...

Type:	Description:	Case #:	Location:	Agency:	Date:
	PETTY THEFT(All Other Larceny) (M)	-	400 W BLOCK D STREET	Encinitas Sheriff	9/13/2011 07:15 PM
	TAKE VEHICLE W/O OWNER'S CONSENT/VEHICLE THEFT (F)	-	1100 BLOCK EOLUS AVENUE	Encinitas Sheriff	9/13/2011 07:00 PM
	PETTY THEFT(Shoplift) (M)	-	100 BLOCK C STREET	Encinitas Sheriff	9/13/2011 02:15 PM
	VEHICLE BREAK-IN/THEFT	-	600 S BLOCK HWY 101	Solana Beach Sheriff	9/13/2011 10:00 AM
	RESIDENTIAL BURGLARY	-	400 BLOCK 09TH STREET	Del Mar Sheriff	9/13/2011 08:40 AM
	TAKE VEHICLE W/O OWNER'S CONSENT/VEHICLE THEFT (F)	-	1800 N BLOCK VULCAN AVENUE	Encinitas Sheriff	9/13/2011 07:00 AM
	RESIDENTIAL BURGLARY	-	15900 BLOCK OVERVIEW ROAD	Poway Sheriff	9/12/2011 12:00 PM
	PETTY THEFT(from Building) (M)	-	14800 BLOCK POMERADO ROAD	Poway Sheriff	9/12/2011 11:10 AM
	VANDALISM [$400 OR LESS] (M)	-	1300 BLOCK HERMES AVENUE	Encinitas Sheriff	9/12/2011 09:30 AM
	COMMERCIAL BURGLARY	-	400 BLOCK SANTA FE DRIVE	Encinitas Sheriff	9/12/2011 12:01 AM
	COMMERCIAL BURGLARY	-	12800 BLOCK POWAY ROAD	Poway Sheriff	9/11/2011 10:00 PM
	TAKE VEHICLE W/O OWNER'S CONSENT/VEHICLE THEFT (F)	-	13400 BLOCK POWAY ROAD	Poway Sheriff	9/11/2011 08:00 PM
	COMMERCIAL BURGLARY	-	13500 BLOCK POWAY ROAD	Poway Sheriff	9/11/2011 03:57 AM
	SIMPLE BATTERY (M)	-	500 S BLOCK COAST HIGHWAY 101	Encinitas Sheriff	9/11/2011 02:00 AM
	SIMPLE BATTERY (M)	-	100 S BLOCK CEDROS AVENUE	Solana Beach Sheriff	9/10/2011 11:15 PM
	VEHICLE BREAK-IN/THEFT	-	700 BLOCK DEVONSHIRE DRIVE	Encinitas Sheriff	9/10/2011 11:00 PM
	VANDALISM ($400 OR MORE) (F)	-	13600 BLOCK POWAY ROAD	Poway Sheriff	9/10/2011 09:29 PM
	VEHICLE BREAK-IN/THEFT	-	300 BLOCK LA COSTA AVENUE	Encinitas Sheriff	9/10/2011 06:30 PM
	RESIDENTIAL BURGLARY	-	1900 BLOCK GLASGOW AVENUE	Encinitas Sheriff	9/10/2011 06:00 PM
	PETTY THEFT(All Other Larceny) (M)	-	600 BLOCK LOMAS SANTA FE DRIVE	Solana Beach Sheriff	9/10/2011 02:30 PM
	VEHICLE BREAK-IN/THEFT	-	3100 BLOCK CIRCA DE TIERRA	Encinitas Sheriff	9/10/2011 11:00 AM
	DISORDERLY CONDUCT: ALCOHOL	-	12400 BLOCK POWAY ROAD	Poway Sheriff	9/10/2011 04:38 AM
	VANDALISM [$400 OR LESS] (M)	-	12600 BLOCK ROBISON BOULEVARD	Poway Sheriff	9/10/2011 03:50 AM
	VANDALISM [$400 OR LESS] (M)	-	12400 BLOCK POWAY ROAD	Poway Sheriff	9/10/2011 03:09 AM
	EXHIBIT DEADLY WEAPON OTHER THAN FIREARM (M)	-	800 BLOCK SANDCASTLE DRIVE	Encinitas Sheriff	9/10/2011 01:30 AM
	VANDALISM [$400 OR LESS] (M)	-	700 BLOCK CLARK AVENUE	Encinitas Sheriff	9/9/2011 07:00 PM
	VANDALISM [$400 OR LESS] (M)	-	100 BLOCK SAXONY ROAD	Encinitas Sheriff	9/9/2011 05:00 PM
	OTHER AGENCY VEHICLE THEFT/RECOVERY (F)	-	100 W BLOCK C STREET	Encinitas Sheriff	9/9/2011 08:19 AM
	COMMERCIAL BURGLARY	-	13200 BLOCK CARRIAGE ROAD	Poway Sheriff	9/9/2011 07:22 AM
	COMMERCIAL BURGLARY	-	12600 BLOCK POWAY ROAD	Poway Sheriff	9/9/2011 05:24 AM
	COMMERCIAL BURGLARY	-	12600 BLOCK POWAY ROAD	Poway Sheriff	9/9/2011 05:24 AM
	BATTERY WITH SERIOUS BODILY INJURY	-	13100 BLOCK CARRIAGE ROAD	Poway Sheriff	9/9/2011 01:37 AM
	VANDALISM [$400 OR LESS] (M)	-	800 BLOCK SANTA FE DRIVE	Encinitas Sheriff	9/9/2011 01:05 AM

A Diffierent Theft.......

(From the files of the Rancho Santa Fe Patrol, Thursday, July 21, 2011...)

Over the past week we have taken reports for the theft of Back Flow Preventer Manifolds.  What the heck is a Back flow Preventer Manifold?   Well, its the "U" shaped pipe object you see coming out of the ground- usually near a water meter.  Its made to prevent water back flowing through the pipes into your plumbing.  The pipes are being stolen for the brass or copper value of the metal.  But, not all back flow preventers are brass....

The stolen valves are taken to a metal recyclers and the crooks try to get cash for them.  Changes in the laws prevent an immediate handout of cash- the recyler has to take the persons name and information and contact the authorities before handing over the cash. 

Both cases we investigated occurred late at night.  If you happen to see a car or truck stopped on the side of the road looking suspicious, please give us a call.

LINKS

• Vacation Check Form
• CHP Traffic
• Crime Stoppers
• Rancho Santa Fe Association
• RSF Fire
• San Diego Sheriff

We Have Moved

We have moved our office to 16936 El Fuego.  This is on the south side of the Fire Station in the village.  Our mailing address and phone numbers do not change.  To reach us- 858-756-4372 or 858-756-9966.   There may be a delay in answering emails for a day or so. 

Mountain Lion Seen

On July 5, 2011 at about 2:00pm, a resident in the area of  16100 blk of Via Del Alba,  saw what he described as a Mountain Lion cross his driveway.  The animal was walking.  It was not aggressive.  The sighting was reported to Fish and Game.  If you see a Mountain Lion you should not approach the animal.   If you should see a mountain lion, you are encouraged to call Fish and Game at 858-467-4257.  If the animal is a threat, call 911. 

Although historically sightings are rare, there are several types of wild animals that live here in Rancho Santa Fe.  Mountain Lions main food source is deer and coyotes.  Eliminating plant species that attract deer help discourage mountain lions from coming into the area. 

Please take precautions – mountain lions are most active at night as well as dusk and dawn.  Do not leave children outside unattended; don’t leave pet food or food that may attract animals outside.  Do not leave animals outside unattended.  Horses should be kept in stalls in the barn.  Be careful when walking/ jogging at dusk and dawn time periods.   If you see a mountain lion- make noise-lots of it.  Yell, scream, and bang on something.  For example, pocket sized air horns are a good way to do that.

If you have any questions please call the Dept of Fish and Game at 858-467-4201  or the RSF Patrol 858-756-4372.

For more information:  www.keepmewild.org.

San Diego Sheriff's crime report for 6/14/2011 - 6/20/2011: Seven local crimes found in Rancho Santa Fe, Calif.-area...

 http://www.crimemapping.com/map/region/northcountysandiego

Follow the link above to view the entire mapping tool...

Type:	Description:	Case #:	Location:	Agency:	Date:
	BURGLARY (VEHICLE) (F)	-	1800 S BLOCK EL CAMINO REAL	Encinitas Sheriff	6/16/2011 07:30 PM
	PETTY THEFT	-	2200 BLOCK JIMMY DURANTE BOULEVARD	Del Mar Sheriff	6/14/2011 09:45 PM
	BURGLARY (VEHICLE) (F)	-	2200 BLOCK CAROL VIEW DRIVE	Encinitas Sheriff	6/14/2011 06:00 PM
	BATTERY ON PERSON	-	2200 BLOCK JIMMY DURANTE BOULEVARD	Del Mar Sheriff	6/14/2011 05:59 PM
	SIMPLE BATTERY (M)	-	2200 BLOCK JIMMY DURANTE	Del Mar Sheriff	6/14/2011 04:30 PM
	BATTERY AGAINST POLICE OFFICER	-	2200 BLOCK JIMMY DURANTE BOULEVARD	Del Mar Sheriff	6/14/2011 02:40 PM
	GRAND THEFT (All Other Larceny) (F)	-	2200 BLOCK JIMMY DURANTE	Del Mar Sheriff	6/14/2011 06:30 AM

FALLING UP -- COMINGS AND GOINGS AROUND RANCHO SANTA FE, CALIF. AREA WITH DAN WEISMAN

Welcome. And whatever that guy'girl in 'Cabaret' sez. Paseo Delicias Avenue.

 Some short takes from around town this week, A few of these are in the what da ya know variety, but if you didn't' see them here, you wouldn't see them anywhere. Somewhat surprising stuff if I do say so myself in best Ed Grimley fashion.

Actually, I first wrote an amazing 5,000 word diatribe to go with this update. a lot of it was talking about what a little money would do for us here, but then it sounded kind of whiney although totally true. So, I'll skip it for now.

The story began: "I'm continually amazed about the quantity and quality of stories around Rancho Santa Fe, Olivenhain, Del Dios, etc. that go unreported and unrecognized..."

And away we go...

COMINGS

Ranch Deli Market has put the market in Ranch Deli big-time. Landmark -- and four-star rated in the informal dining world -- Fairbanks Ranch Deli has blown up like a Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon glomming over the space occupied by the Farm Fresh Market convenience store.

 The deli is a well-known way-station dating to 1984. It's at 16236 San Dieguito Road., otherwise known as Fairbanks Village Building # 2-13. The expansion doubled the size of the dining area as well as added wine and sundry sales.

Farm Fresh Market always was a bit of a misnomer. Oddly out of sync with this, the most upscale of areas

Yelp Review by 'Tony N' Capturing Essence of: 

 In it I'm Tony Andolini, an Italian tough from the Bronx trying to get close to the evil don who killed my father.

One day he summons me to a deli for a job. But when I get there, the don is sitting in a chair and 5 of his biggest soldiers are waiting for me. They grab me and hold me down on the butcher's block. 

"You thought I didn't know who you were? You're the son of that puttana that stole my prosciutto!"

"What? That's all???"

"Yes - now let's make some sausage, boys."

This is when I wake up craving some deli sandwiches. 

Ranch Deli is not one of these places. The owners are Middle Eastern, the staff is comprised of Mexicans, no one greets me with "Eyyyy! Doh-neeeee!!!"  And yet, they manage to make some really awesome sandwiches, pasta and soups. Which leads me to suspect that there's someone named Guiseppe in the back doing all the prep work. They keep him docile by setting up a tv in his cell locked on Italian Series A soccer highlights and cigarettes. 

This is a really popular spot for people working around Fairbanks Ranch/RSF. I'm not sure if that's because it's pretty good (which it is) or if it's one of the only delis in the area (which it is). I'd go with a Grosso - salami, prosciutto, provolone mozzarella and various vegetables with some Italian dressing and pepperccinis. 6" for $7.99 and 12" for $12.99. The soccer moms (and there are a lot of them here) seem to love the salads here and the soups are pretty hearty and filling. Also available are pizza slices and burritos. 

Take it from me - a guy who watches a lot of gangster movies - this is good stuff. It might not be authentic, but when you're out in the boondocks, it really hits the spot.

GOINGS

Gracie Mahvi went out of business last week. Not totally, but totally outside Rancho Santa Fe. Gracie will maintain a Sorrento Mesa warehouse for her designs, but she is out of the retail game.

I've spoken to Gracie a few times over the years and have so much respect for her it's funny, since I don't usually think much of...well, anyway, this lady so has it together I'm sorry we're not married. So there, I said it.

 Sadly, however, she closed her Del Rayo Village store after a dozen years, and after closing her Paseo Delicias shop last year. The shops were doing surprisingly well in these economic times, but Gracie wanted t take personal time to spend with family and such.

Joining the glorious heritage of the dearly departed Robyn Nussbaum Shoe Lounge, these two stores should be in the Fairbanks Ranch Merchants Hall of Fame as charter members.

Salutations and salute....

  DUMPSTERS (DIVING OPTIONAL)

I've said it before and I've said it again. Rancho Santa Fe has the BEST of everything, including the BEST DUMPSTERS FOR DIVING IN THE WORLD.

Not only are these dumpsters state-of-the-art, they contain an incredible assortment of goodies from foodstuffs to financials. What's more they are totally unsullied by the horrible stench of poor -- UGGH POOR -- people rummaging through the goodies. These dumpsters are pure as melting Arctic iceberg water.

In my humble opinion, however, these particular dumpsters reign supreme. I am naming them the #1 dumpsters for diving in San Diego County and possibly the West Coast (haven't been to Montecito or Atherton lately).

A special Ah-Ha Rancho Santa Fe News shout-out then. Do you recognize these dumpsters. the finest dumpsters in all the land. IF you do, we will be having a special flash mob meet-up there 4 p.m. Sunday, June 19. See ya there.

RANCHO SANTA FE FIRE STATION #3

 This is your big boy. The $5 million uber-fire station and training facility at 6356 El Apajo, across the street from Helen Woodward Animal Center is WAY behind schedule and...Cool, but did you know there were some political shenanigans taking place behind the scenes, too. Maybe that has something to do with the delay. That story continues to develop and will be addressed later in June.

As for Fire Station #3, Rancho Santa Fe , we sing praises of thee...Once promised for May, May has gone and now the new date is when? Whenever they get round to it, I guess, they haven't provided an update. Oh well.

MISCELLANEOUS

Lemon Twist now open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday at 8175 Del Dios Highway Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 - (858) 756-0826. Good stuff!

But what about this outrage?

I'm "outing" this "scoop" at the end since it's such a scandal, but a dumb scandal. The former proposed site for the ill-fated moronic 'The Lilian' mixed-BS development -- it went belly-up and couldnt get any county permits by the way -- has morphed and phoenix-like risen from its own ashes as THIS...Plaza de Acacias monstrosity. Same song, different verse. You will be reading it's unfiltered PR line soon enough at the Ecinitas Coast News and Rancho Santa Fe at Carmel Valley, San Diego Review, but this is the first of what it looks like and good luck to this piece of tomfakery.

YEAH THAT'S HOW WE ROLL! All for now folks....

San Diego Sheriff's crime report for Rancho Santa Fe, Cal. area, 6/6/2011 - 6/12/2011: 12 local crimes found ...

For more information, follow the mapping tool above.....

Type:	Description:	Case #:	Location:	Agency:	Date:
	ROBBERY (F)	-	800 BLOCK SANTA FE DRIVE	Encinitas Sheriff	6/10/2011 09:13 PM
	SIMPLE BATTERY (M)	-	300 BLOCK PRINCEHOUSE LANE	Encinitas Sheriff	6/10/2011 08:45 PM
	PETTY THEFT(Shoplift) (M)	-	1100 S BLOCK COAST HIGHWAY 101	Encinitas Sheriff	6/10/2011 03:40 PM
	VANDALISM [$400 OR LESS] (M)	-	100 BLOCK SINALOA COURT	Solana Beach Sheriff	6/9/2011 01:00 PM
	VANDALISM ($400 OR MORE) (F)	-	300 BLOCK SPRUCEWOOD DRIVE	Encinitas Sheriff	6/8/2011 11:45 PM
	PETTY THEFT(from Veh) (M)	-	900 BLOCK ARDEN DRIVE	Encinitas Sheriff	6/8/2011 09:00 PM
	TAKE VEHICLE W/O OWNER'S CONSENT/VEHICLE THEFT	-	1300 S BLOCK COAST HIGHWAY 101	Encinitas Sheriff	6/8/2011 01:30 PM
	BURGLARY (RESIDENTIAL) (F)	-	200 S BLOCK SIERRA AVENUE	Solana Beach Sheriff	6/8/2011 09:00 AM
	PETTY THEFT(All Other Larceny) (M)	-	2000 BLOCK PARK DALE LANE	Encinitas Sheriff	6/7/2011 08:06 PM
	PETTY THEFT(from Veh) (M)	-	2900 BLOCK MANCHESTER AVENUE	Encinitas Sheriff	6/7/2011 06:00 PM
	BURGLARY (COMMERCIAL) (F)	-	200 N BLOCK EL CAMINO REAL	Encinitas Sheriff	6/6/2011 05:17 PM
	PETTY THEFT(from Building) (M)	-	500 BLOCK LOMAS SANTA FE DRIVE	Solana Beach Sheriff	6/6/2011 03:15 PM

BREAKING NEWS 1:30 P.M. - Traffic injuries at Lineo Del Cielo and Calzada Del Bosque, another one at Del Mar Heights Road bringing amublances, injuries and delays...

Two traffic collisions are slowing down Rancho Santa Fe traffic and bringing amubulances to the scene to attend to possibly injured parties. The first one is at Linea Del Cielo and Calzada Del Bosque, a prime local driving route from inland areas to the coast, happened around 12:45 p.m. It apprently involves two minors who were driving and collided vehiclesThis is the CHP report as of 1:30 p.m.

The second collision is along Interstate 5, just south of Via de la Valle. Seven or eight vehicles are involved, blocking the car pool lanes. It happened around 1 p.m. 

More details, as they become avaliable...

San Diego Sheriff's crime report for Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. area, 5/24/2011 - 5/30/2011: 14 local crimes found... 

 http://www.crimemapping.com/map/region/northcountysandiego

For more information, follow the mapping tool above..

Type:	Description:	Case #:	Location:	Agency:	Date:
	BURGLARY (VEHICLE) (F)	-	700 S BLOCK SIERRA AVENUE	Solana Beach Sheriff	5/29/2011 04:00 PM
	VANDALISM ($400 OR MORE) (F)	-	1700 BLOCK LEGAYE DRIVE	Encinitas Sheriff	5/28/2011 08:00 PM
	VANDALISM [$400 OR LESS] (M)	-	14400 BLOCK TWIN GABLES COURT	Poway Sheriff	5/28/2011 11:45 AM
	BURGLARY (RESIDENTIAL) (F)	-	17100 BLOCK ALVA ROAD	San Diego County Sheriff	5/28/2011 10:15 AM
	PETTY THEFT(All Other Larceny) (M)	-	100 N BLOCK HWY 101	Solana Beach Sheriff	5/27/2011 06:37 AM
	BURGLARY (VEHICLE) (F)	-	12600 BLOCK POWAY ROAD	Poway Sheriff	5/26/2011 07:30 PM
	BURGLARY (VEHICLE) (F)	-	100 BLOCK 08TH STREET	Del Mar Sheriff	5/26/2011 07:00 PM
	ADW:NOT FIREARM:GBI LIKELY (F)	-	700 BLOCK GENEVIEVE AVENUE	Solana Beach Sheriff	5/26/2011 03:05 PM
	PETTY THEFT(from Building) (M)	-	200 BLOCK 12TH STREET	Del Mar Sheriff	5/24/2011 09:30 PM
	PETTY THEFT(from Building) (M)	-	200 BLOCK 12TH STREET	Del Mar Sheriff	5/24/2011 07:00 PM
	PETTY THEFT(from Building) (M)	-	200 BLOCK 12TH STREET	Del Mar Sheriff	5/24/2011 06:30 PM
	GRAND THEFT (All Other Larceny) (F)	-	900 BLOCK LOMAS SANTA FE DRIVE	Solana Beach Sheriff	5/24/2011 04:10 PM
	OTHER AGENCY VEHICLE THEFT/RECOVERY (F)	-	2500 S BLOCK COAST HIGHWAY 101	Encinitas Sheriff	5/24/2011 10:29 AM
	BURGLARY (RESIDENTIAL) (F)	-	10500 BLOCK CLASICO COURT	San Diego County Sheriff	5/24/2011 08:00 AM

Emergency responders deal with tragedy, sometimes joy around Rancho Santa Fe, Calif.

 The ambulance at Rancho Santa Fe Fire Station 1 sat idle, if only for a moment, as paramedic John Salinsky contemplated the upscale North County beat he works for San Diego Medical Services Enterprise, the area's 911 paramedic provider.

"This is a lot different than working downtown," Salinsky said. "It's just better quality here. It's like the difference between Thunderbird and fine wine."

Upscale, yes, but areas served by Salinsky, his partner Angelo Sanchez, an emergency medical technician, and the other medical emergency responders in places such as Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar, Carmel Valley and Solana Beach suffer life and death traumas like anywhere else.

"One gentleman was at a formal dinner wearing a tuxedo and choking on a steak," Salinsky said. "He was in a room full of doctors all standing over him. You walk in the door and see a doctor with a giant steak knife trying to do a tracheotomy on him."

No happy ending there. The patient died. But potential tragedy many times turns to joy due to quick acting by paramedics such as Salinsky and a sense of humor never hurts.

"I always like the one about the fabled Rancho Santa Fe deer," Salinsky said. "Usually occurs around 2 o'clock in the morning. Someone hits a tree. I get there and they are standing around a little tipsy saying the deer ran across the road and I hit it. I've heard variations like a coyote of bunny rabbit ran across, too. The elusive RSF deer only seems to come out after they've been drinking."

 Loralee Olejnik, shown here, provides SDMSE Project Heartbeat community services around Rancho Santa Fe, Solana Beach, Del Mar, Encinitas and San Diego County.

 

Paramedics and emergency medical technicians are part of a groundbreaking public-private partnership in place since 2001. The umbrella operation is called San Diego Medical Services Enterprise. This combines resources from the city of San Diego Fire-Rescue Department and Rural/Metro Ambulance, a leading national provider of emergency and non-emergency medical transportation.

The organization employs about 410 people covering Carmel Valley and the city of San Diego as well as North County from Encinitas to Del Mar, 4S Ranch to Elfin Forest. Beyond San Diego city limits, the coverage area is referred to as County Service Area 17. Crews respond to about 5,100 emergency calls and transport about 4,300 patients annually. Three ambulances are staffed 24 hours a day out of Rancho Santa Fe Fire Station 1, Encinitas Fire Station 5 and Solana Beach Fire Station 1.

The service also participates in numerous community outreach programs. It offers free blood pressure checks at senior centers, Distributes free emergency medical information kits and defibrillator training. Crews attend various community events telling people how best to contact 911 service providers and other helpful bits of advice about what to do in emergency situations.

Medical service providers work as two-person paramedic units, generally in 24-hour shifts, saving lives side-by-side with regular fire engine crews that include five or six firefighters and a paramedic. This requires teamwork and a commitment to patient care above all else.

"This is not like you're sitting behind a desk pushing paper," said 24-year paramedic Randy Stark as he manned Solana Beach Fire Station 1 with emergency medical technician Jason Gray, a new hire, during the final days of the San Diego County Fair at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.

The day before, the crew made three trips to the fair. Two visits were for alcohol-related injuries. One trip was to help a person suffering an off-track motorbike spill.

"I like this job," said Stark, leaning on an ambulance with an interior resembling a fully stocked hospital triage unit. "One day, it's a child birth, then an auto accident, then a stabbing, over to a parachute that didn't open to shark bites, everything you hear over the news."

The journey from tragedy to hospital can be emotionally gut wrenching. Emergency workers undergo extensive psychological and situational training to help them deal with sometimes-unconscionable events. They must act quickly and decisively under pressure.

"We're out there by ourselves," Salinsky said. "We really need to be prepared. You need a certain detail-oriented personality, someone who likes to be autonomous. You're constantly re-assessing during transport like Sherlock Holmes, deducing, trying to narrow down the complaint from an endless list of things, determining what is wrong and how to treat the patient."

Salinsky and Sanchez had just finished transporting a Rancho Santa Fe patient with abdominal pain to Scripps Encinitas Hospital.

"We have a higher percentage of older people around here, but they know to call 911 when they need it and not for reasons other than emergencies like happens downtown a lot," Salinsky said.

But for Stark and Gray over at Solana Beach, the day was quieter as they contemplated life, not death.

"I've participated in delivering 100 babies," Stark said. "We had a child birth in Solana Beach last year where they called 911 saying the baby was coming. The lady delivered in her driveway, leaning on a Mercedes. She called me the other day, and we went to her son's first birthday party."

Medical supervisor Todd Smith checked his on-board computer's global positioning system pinpointing active cases, of which there were several, driving to another of his units on the front lines of emergency medical care in County Service Area 17.

"I was a third-generation San Diego County firefighter before I went to paramedic school," Smith said. "No, I'm not superstitious, but we always have our full moon scenarios. It must be a full moon tonight."

Free emergency San Diego County ambulance service to cost $400 plus $20 a mile starting June 14...

Adding pocketbook insult to injury, it's going to cost a whole lot more to be taken by ambulance to a hospital. You can thank your county supervisors for that one.

County supervisors voted unanimously on May 24 to charge people $400 plus $20 a mile to be taken by ambulance to the hospital. this service is free currently.

These new fees apply to Rancho Santa Fe, Solana Beach, Del Mar and Encinitas.

Supervisors voted unanimously to impose the fee after officials said it would provide financial stability and ensure continued emergency medical care for residents and visitors.

The services are funded by property taxes, special-benefit taxes and non-district resident ambulance transport fees. However, the service area expects to spend $250,000 more than it takes in beginning this year, depleting reserves.

Walter Ekard, county chief administration officer, who earns $286,000 per year plus perks -- more than the speaker of the House of Representatives or U. S. Senators earn -- said the proposed fee was well below the average charged by other communities. The other county service area in Santee and Lakeside charges $900 plus $14 per mile.

El Cajon charges $1,184 and $19 per mile while in San Diego it costs $865 plus $13 a mile. Elsewhere, Los Angeles County charges $929 and $15 per mile and Ventura County charges $1,251 and $23 per mile.

Ambulance services for Del Mar, Encinitas, Solana Beach and Rancho Santa Fe and parts of Elfin Forest are provided by San Diego Medical Services Enterprise.

In most cases, fees and mileage reimbursements come directly from Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance companies.

Monthly healthcare premiums are not projected to increase because the ambulance fee represents a fraction of total health care costs. Last year, the service area’s citizen advisory committee supported establishing the resident fee.

The ordinance is scheduled for adoption on June 14, and would take effect 30 days later.

Congressman Brian Bilbray, R-50th Congressional District, voting record April to May 2011...Voting record courtesy Megavote.

Upcoming Votes

PATRIOT Sunsets Extension Act of 2011 - S.1038 The Senate is scheduled to take up this four-year extension of provisions in the Patriot Act that are set to expire on May 27. The House may also take up its version of the bill. House Budget Resolution, FY2012 - H.CON.RES.34 The Senate is expected to vote this week on the House’s 2012 fiscal year budget resolution. Defense Authorization, FY2012 - H.R.1540 The House is scheduled to work on this bill authorizing defense spending in the next fiscal year.

Recent House Votes

Putting the Gulf of Mexico Back to Work Act - Vote Passed (263-163, 5 Not Voting) The House passed this bill that would expedite the permitting process for lessees seeking to drill for oil and natural gas in the Gulf of Mexico. The Interior Department would be required to review applications within 30 days, with the option of extending the review period to 60 days. The Senate is unlikely to take up the bill. Rep. Brian Bilbray voted YES......send e-mail or see bio  Reversing President Obama’s Offshore Moratorium Act - Vote Passed (243-179, 9 Not Voting) This House bill would require the Interior Department to open certain unused areas of the Outer Continental Shelf for oil and natural gas drilling. The bill is unlikely to advance in the Senate. Rep. Brian Bilbray voted Not Voting......send e-mail or see bio  Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011 - Vote Passed (392-15, 24 Not Voting) The House approved this bill authorizing intelligence-related programs for the current fiscal year. Funding levels authorized for the 16 intelligence gathering agencies are classified, but it is estimated to be around $80 billion. The Senate version of the bill is currently at a standstill. Rep. Brian Bilbray voted YES......send e-mail or see bio

To repeal mandatory funding provided to establish American Health Benefit Exchanges - Vote Passed (238-183, 11 Not Voting)

The House passed this bill to eliminate federal grants to states to set up health insurance exchanges. The grants are part of the 2010 health care bill which requires each state to establish an exchange by 2014. The bill is unlikely to advance in the Senate.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted Not Voting......send e-mail or see bio 

To repeal mandatory funding for school-based health center construction - Vote Passed (235-191, 6 Not Voting)

The House passed this bill that would repeal a section in the 2010 health care bill providing funding for the construction of school-based health centers. The bill is unlikely to advance in the Senate.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted Not Voting......send e-mail or see bio 

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No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act - Vote Passed (251-175, 6 Not Voting)

This bill would prohibit federal funds from being used for abortions, except in the cases of rape, incest or danger to the woman's life. A similar bill has been introduced in the Senate, but it is unlikely to gain any traction.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted Not Voting......send e-mail or see bio 

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Restarting American Offshore Leasing Now Act - Vote Passed (266-149, 17 Not Voting)

This House bill would require the Interior Department to sell oil and gas leases in the Gulf of Mexico and off the coast of Virginia. The bill's future in the Senate is uncertain.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted Not Voting......send e-mail or see bio

To repeal the Prevention and Public Health Fund - Vote Passed (236-183, 13 Not Voting)

This House bill would eliminate funding for the Prevention and Public Health Fund, which was established by the health care law. Supporters of the bill say there is no accountability to determine where the money is spent. Opponents of the bill say it would defund important prevention programs. The Senate is unlikely to take up the measure.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted YES......send e-mail or see bio 

Energy Tax Prevention Act of 2011 - Vote Passed (255-172, 5 Not Voting)

The House passed this bill that would prevent the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating greenhouse gases for the purpose of addressing climate change. A similar measure failed in the Senate earlier in the week.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted YES......send e-mail or see bio 

Net Neutrality Disapproval - Vote Passed (240-179, 13 Not Voting)

This resolution would nullify a Federal Communications Commission rule prohibiting broadband Internet service providers from blocking content or traffic. Supporters of the resolution say the FCC does not have the authority to regulate the Internet, while opponents contend the regulations are necessary to provide unfettered access to the Internet. A companion resolution has been introduced in the Senate but its future is unclear.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted YES......send e-mail or see bio 

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Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Amendments, 2011 - Vote Passed (348-70, 14 Not Voting)

The House passed this one-week appropriations measure, giving negotiators time to draft the full-year appropriations measure. The Senate passed the bill by unanimous consent earlier on Friday night. The president signed the measure into law on Saturday.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted YES......send e-mail or see bio

Fiscal 2011 Spending Agreement - Vote Passed (260-167, 6 Not Voting)

The House passed this bill to fund the government through the end of the current fiscal year. Based on the agreement negotiated to prevent a government shutdown, the bill provides $1.055 trillion in federal spending. The Senate passed the bill later in the day, clearing it for the president.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted YES......send e-mail or see bio 

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Fiscal 2011 Health Care Overhaul Funding - Vote Passed (240-185, 7 Not Voting)

Following passage of the 2011 spending bill, the House adopted this enrollment correction resolution that would have blocked funding for the implementation of the health care law. The Senate rejected the resolution so it will not be part of the final spending bill.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted YES......send e-mail or see bio 

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Fiscal 2011 Planned Parenthood Funding - Vote Passed (241-185, 1 Present, 5 Not Voting)

Following passage of the 2011 spending bill, the House adopted this enrollment correction resolution that would have blocked funding for Planned Parenthood. The Senate rejected the resolution so it will not be part of the final spending bill.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted YES......send e-mail or see bio 

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Fiscal 2012 House Budget Resolution - Vote Passed (235-193, 4 Not Voting)

The House passed a budget resolution that calls for $1.019 trillion in discretionary spending in the 2012 fiscal year. The budget resolution would allow for $2.859 trillion in overall spending. The resolution is non-binding but is used as a guideline for appropriators. The Senate is expected to work on its budget after the recess.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted YES......send e-mail or see bio 

The HAMP Termination Act of 2011 - Vote Passed (252-170, 1 Present, 9 Not Voting)

The House voted to end the Home Affordable Modification Program, a home foreclosure prevention program that uses Troubled Asset Relief Program money to help homeowners modify their mortgages. The Senate is unlikely to take up the bill.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted YES......send e-mail or see bio 

Scholarships for Opportunity and Results Act - Vote Passed (225-195, 12 Not Voting)

The House voted to revive a voucher program that would help low-income Washington D.C. residents send their children to private schools. The bill faces an uncertain future but could be attached to the 2011 spending bill currently being negotiated between the House and Senate.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted YES......send e-mail or see bio 

FAA Reauthorization and Reform Act of 2011 - Vote Passed (223-196, 13 Not Voting)

The House passed this bill reauthorizing the Federal Aviation Administration for four-years. The Senate passed a two-year bill in February. The two chambers will now work out a compromise bill.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted YES......send e-mail or see bio 

Government Shutdown Prevention Act - Vote Passed (221-202, 1 Present, 8 Not Voting)

This bill would declare the House-passed spending bill, H.R.1, to be enacted if the Senate does not pass a FY2011 spending bill by April 6. Supporters say the vote highlights the Senate's inability to pass a budget, while opponents say the bill is unconstitutional.

Rep. Brian Bilbray voted YES......send e-mail or see bio...

BREAKING NEWS 4:30 P.M. - WONDERING ABOUT I-5 TRAFFIC HASSLES IN NORTH COUNTY SAN DIEGO, CALIF. HERE ARE A FEW REASONS WHY.

 

 

I-5 at Del Mar Heights Rd (Looking North)

(Traffic closest to camera is on 5 North)

Provided by TrafficLand/Caltrans

 

 

 

 

A series of small fires charred brush along northbound Interstate 5 near Manchester Avenue on Monday afternoon, casting clouds of smoke over the freeway and forcing authorities to close a lane briefly as firefighters doused the blazes.

Firefighters responded to reports of three or four small fires burning on a hill near the freeway about 2:30 p.m., a NorthComm dispatcher said.

Fire causes were not immediately known. Also holding up traffic was this accident, according to CHP:

San Diego Sheriff's crime report for Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. area 5/16/2011 - 5/21/2011: 13 local crimes found 

 http://www.crimemapping.com/map/region/northcountysandiego

For more information, follow the mapping tool above...

Type:	Description:	Case #:	Location:	Agency:	Date:
	TAKE VEHICLE W/O OWNER'S CONSENT/VEHICLE THEFT (F)	-	100 S BLOCK JAYTON LANE	Encinitas Sheriff	5/20/2011 11:00 PM
	SIMPLE BATTERY (M)	-	200 BLOCK SAXONY ROAD	Encinitas Sheriff	5/20/2011 08:30 PM
	BURGLARY (COMMERCIAL) (F)	-	800 BLOCK ACADEMY DRIVE	Solana Beach Sheriff	5/20/2011 02:43 AM
	BURGLARY (VEHICLE) (F)	-	1200 BLOCK ENCINITAS BOULEVARD	Encinitas Sheriff	5/19/2011 07:00 PM
	PETTY THEFT(from Veh) (M)	-	900 BLOCK NARDO ROAD	Encinitas Sheriff	5/18/2011 06:00 PM
	BURGLARY (RESIDENTIAL) (F)	-	2300 BLOCK 11TH STREET	Encinitas Sheriff	5/18/2011 01:00 PM
	BURGLARY (RESIDENTIAL) (F)	-	1500 BLOCK ORANGEVIEW DRIVE	Encinitas Sheriff	5/18/2011 12:00 PM
	BURGLARY (RESIDENTIAL) (F)	-	5400 BLOCK CALZADA DEL BOSQUE	San Diego County Sheriff	5/18/2011 10:40 AM
	GRAND THEFT:MONEY/LABOR/PROPERTY OVER $950	-	800 BLOCK BRACERO ROAD	Encinitas Sheriff	5/17/2011 11:45 PM
	PETTY THEFT(from Building) (M)	-	100 BLOCK VIA CANTEBRIA	Encinitas Sheriff	5/17/2011 04:00 PM
	BATTERY WITH SERIOUS BODILY INJURY	-	200 BLOCK CERRO STREET	Encinitas Sheriff	5/17/2011 12:30 PM
	BURGLARY (RESIDENTIAL) (F)	-	10300 BLOCK CRAFTSMAN WAY	San Diego County Sheriff	5/17/2011 10:30 AM
	KNOWINGLY USE PERSONAL IDENTIFYING INFO TO COMMIT VIOLATION (F)	-	8100 BLOCK LAMOUR LANE	San Diego County Sheriff	5/16/2011 08:37 AM

Soap opera continues at Whispering Palms, Rancho Santa Fe, Calif. now playing in EIR form at San Dieguito Planning Group on June 9.

Whispering Palms soap opera continues due to play out, or act out depending on one's viewpoint -- This time before the San Dieguito Planning Group following an appearance at Vista Superior Court...

 It is the neighborhood controversy that will not die. Whispering Palms once again goes center stage at yet another agency as local planners consider Richard Cavanaugh's long-standing plan to build something, anything, at the giant vacant lot at his luxury development. However, his demeanor, past history of conflict with homeowners, and controversial plans to put in condos, rental units and even continuing care facilities has raised hackles, lawsuits and the usual suspicions.

The latest: Cavanaugh's environmental impact report for the project, attached here in pdf form. Interested parties have until June 15 to tell planners what the heck they think.

"If you have any interest in the environmental consequences of the proposed project, you should follow up with the county.  I anticipate this matter will be on the planning group’s agenda at our next meeting on June 9

^th, although input directly to the county will be more valuable than providing us the information at that meeting."

Paul Daniel Marks

Attorney at Law

Certified Specialist, Family Law

www.divorceandmediation.com 

The Wild Wild West of Deadwood and Dodge City had nothing on Whispering Palms.

Perhaps a Joseph Heller screenplay with a splash of Thomas Pynchon novel tossed in the mix could do the place justice.

Move over Peyton Place, Pine Valley and Port Charles. Whispering Palms is in da house. And this time, there’s no Erica Kane on a forklift to clear the way.

In the latest chapter of 'As Whispering Palms Burns,' Vista Superior Court Judge Earl H. Maas III ruled controversial Whispering Palms developer Richard Cavanaugh's long-desired mixed-use project at the vacant 4.3-acre lot at the community's entrance had to go back to ye olde drawing board.

Prompted by a 2007 lawsuit from Whispering Palms residents at odds with Cavanaugh, Maas ruled the project lacked a full environmental impact report, despite the project's approval by San Diego County Supervisors. Maas found the traffic impact section of the report to be inadequate.

Cavanaugh's attorney Wayne Bechtel said the developer would prepare that report although the previous report was done properly.

Cavanaugh’s proposal to develop the final 4.3-acre open space parcel at the community’s only entrance/exit includes a mixed-use commercial center featuring 9,600-square-feet of retail space, 19,500-square-feet of office space and 54 apartments, each 900-square-feet.

Before the mixed-use proposal, Cavanaugh sought to build an assisted living facility at the vacant lot raising the community's wrath and opposition. County officials rejected this concept.

The property as now constituted represents a prominent eyesore dating back to the inception of the development in the mid-1960s.

The parcel has been zoned commercial for quite a while. All Cavanaugh lacks is that environmental report which will allow him to secure a grading permit before he can proceed.

Well, a grading permit and the cooperation of Whispering Palms residents who threaten noisy opposition and litigation should he proceed with plans.

Not that residents oppose development of that hallowed piece of empty ground. Indeed, they want it to become something useful and attractive in the worst way.

There’s just this Cavanaugh thing. Residents say he promised a smaller commercial development at Palma de la Reina with fewer, larger homeowner-owned condominiums rather than his proposed rental apartments. Cavanaugh says whatever he proposes will be opposed by residents because they hate him.

Although the judge focused on traffic impacts in his ruling, Brechtel said the environmental impact report will have to address all aspects of the project, along with public comments. That draft report was submitted to the San Dieguito Planning Group and will be considered June 9, 2011.

Scenes from a San Diego County Wildland Training Exercise at Lake Hodges, Calif. DAY 2..

A little rain didn't dampen the spirits of hundreds of firefighters from 28 San Diego County fire agencies on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 as they concluded annual wildland training at Lake Hodges, Calif.

And for some bonus coverage...

...Dial it up. Fire training exercise over, the lake re-opens to fishing on Wednesday.

PLUS BONUS COVERAGE OF 'THE ACCIDENT' AT THE LAKE...Featuring the Del Dios Bicycle Players.

As fortune - bad - would have it, a bicyclist suffered a fall at the right place with hundreds of EMTs around.

So, as an added busines we bring your photos from 'The Accident' as well.

Last but least, the lake as it stands Monday, May 16, 2011

Enjoy?

MORE WILDLAND TRAINING FROM LAKE HODGES, DEL DIOS, CALIF...

Like I was saying, its the annual Wildland Training Day at Lake Hodges and about 100 engine companies along with numerous batallion chiefs and firefighting apparatus, and about a half-dozen fire suppression non-stealth helicopters trained all day Monday at the lake.

They came from every firefighting agency in San Diego County for the hootenanny at the lake.

It was a fun day for all what with seminars, hands-on training and well, sitting around in fire engines all day.

Warning: Arsonists Beware, Stay Away from Lake Hodges Monday for the Lake is Fire-Training or Something...

All of San Diego County's fire agencies turned out in force on Monday for the annual meeting of the clans. Well, the annual wildfire exercise. And what place more appropriate than at the Del Dios Fire Station and Lake Hodges where the 2007 Witch Creek Fire was brought to its knees and vanquished.

Agencies, along with all available firefighting helcopters, spent the day doing stuff around the lake. This included wildfire training seminars at the station as well as hands-on fire suppression and safety drills at the lake. Anyone who was stranded around Lake Hodges due to, I dunno, having a crappy Toyota RAV 4 transmission, were just plain out of luck, but we digress...

....Enjoy!

San Diego Sheriff's crime report for 5/9/2011 - 5/15/2011: 11 local crimes found...

 http://www.crimemapping.com/map/region/northcountysandiego

For more information, follow the mapping tool above....

Type:	Description:	Case #:	Location:	Agency:	Date:
	SIMPLE BATTERY (M)	-	900 BLOCK LOMAS SANTA FE DRIVE	Solana Beach Sheriff	5/14/2011 02:40 AM
	BURGLARY (COMMERCIAL) (F)	-	1300 BLOCK CAMINO DEL MAR	Del Mar Sheriff	5/13/2011 06:40 PM
	KNOWINGLY USE PERSONAL IDENTIFYING INFO TO COMMIT VIOLATION (F)	-	300 BLOCK STRATFORD COURT	Del Mar Sheriff	5/13/2011 05:13 PM
	GRAND THEFT (All Other Larceny) (F)	-	2200 BLOCK JIMMY DURANTE BOULEVARD	Del Mar Sheriff	5/13/2011 05:00 PM
	PETTY THEFT(from Building) (M)	-	300 N BLOCK ACACIA AVENUE	Solana Beach Sheriff	5/13/2011 12:00 PM
	PETTY THEFT	-	1400 BLOCK CAM DEL MAR	Del Mar Sheriff	5/11/2011 05:35 PM
	GRAND THEFT (All Other Larceny) (F)	-	600 W BLOCK SOLANA CIRCLE	Solana Beach Sheriff	5/11/2011 03:30 PM
	BURGLARY (VEHICLE) (F)	-	3800 BLOCK VIA PASATIEMPO	San Diego County Sheriff	5/11/2011 08:00 AM
	PETTY THEFT(from Veh) (M)	-	2900 BLOCK MANCHESTER AVENUE	Encinitas Sheriff	5/10/2011 05:00 PM
	PETTY THEFT(from Building) (M)	-	5500 BLOCK CANCHA DE GOLF	San Diego County Sheriff	5/9/2011 05:00 PM
	PERSONATE TO GET MONEY/PROP [OVER $400] (F)	-	100 BLOCK SALTILLO COURT	Solana Beach Sheriff	5/9/2011 12:01 AM

BREAKING NEWS 1 P.M. -- Fire at Cielo Village closes Del Dios Highway at 1 p.m. Friday; Re-opens an hour and a half later...

Lucky for the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District, a new fire station and the recently relocated department offices are nearby. Conspiracy theories, anyone???

In any event, these were the CHP details as reported. Updated at 8 p.m. wth Rancho Santa Fe Fire Department release on the incident.

Crews knocked down a brush fire that broke out near Cielo Village. The fire was reported shortly after 12:45 p.m. in an area near Del Dios Highway and Bing Crosby Boulevard, according to Cal Fire. Small, separate fires also broke out in the area. Authorities said the fires were apparently sparked by a passing vehicle with a malfunctioning exhaust or brake system. Below is the real-time CHP SigAlert report brought to you real-time ONLY at Ah-Ha Rancho Santa Fe News...

SMALL VEGETATION FIRES ALONG DEL DIOS HIGHWAY QUICKLY EXTINGUISHED

RANCHO SANTA FE, Calif. — On Friday, May 6, 2011, at 12:45 p.m., firefighters from the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District, Carlsbad Fire Department, Encinitas Fire Department, and CalFire, responde to the report of a vegetation fire along Del Dios Highway just east of Calle Ambiente. When they arrived on the scene, firefighters found three small vegetation fires, covering a total area of 1.5 acres, burning along the roadway and worked quickly to extinguish the flames. Del Dios Highway was closed in both directions for approximately 2 hours between Calle Ambiente and Rancho Drive. Eight fire engines, one hand crew, one helicopter, and two battalion chiefs responded to the incident. California Highway Patrol and Rancho Santa Fe Patrol assisted with the road closure. No evacuations were ordered and there were no injuries. CalFire is investigating the cause of the fires.

-- Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District

RANCHO SANTA FE WIKILEAKS: County allegedly stiffs local planning group, fire dept. CONTINUED....

Look below for last week's e-mail chain and issue backstory. Or visit http://tiny.cc/9mkqb

I just received a call from Vince Nicoletti from the contracts section at DPLU.  He was very apologetic about the e-mail to which I responded, and he’s agreed to find a solution.

He recognizes that I shouldn’t be signing a contract with the fire department, for example, that I agree to indemnify it for any riots that break out, and he assured me that a minor charge per meeting is not a big deal to them, they just need to figure out a way to structure any arrangement.

In the meantime, we may need to continue to explore other venues, as the 911 people will ultimately be taking over the space, as he understands it.

He also agreed that planning groups serve a valuable purpose, saving the county huge amounts of staff time gathering input.

Another squeaky wheel gets greased.

Paul Daniel Marks

Attorney at Law

Certified Specialist, Family Law

www.divorceandmediation.com