ramonahomejournaldec18 2014

DECEMBER 18, 2014 RaMona HoME JouRnaL 1

Dec. 18, 2014 Volume 17 Number 13

AwArD-wiNNiNg ~ PublisheD eVery Other week ~ lOcAlly OwNeD

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PAIDRamona, CAPermit No. 20

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Postal CustomerJournalRamona Home

Family Captures the Magic of Christmas

Year After Year page 2

2 RaMona HoME JouRnaL DECEMBER 18, 2014

By Lindsay Santa ~ the journal

one family has managed to capture the very essence and spirit of Christmas

with their own version of Santa’s sleigh. Bill and Judy Bryant, 34-year residents of Ramona, are the couple behind the life-size Santa sleigh you may have seen driving up and down Main Street every Christmas for the past several years.

Judy, who originally grew up in Washington state, remembered a time as a child when she saw someone using an old truck to pull a trailer that was modified and decorat-ed to look like a sleigh, with a reindeer in front and Christmas carols playing as it drove around.

Judy mentioned the idea to her husband, Bill, and said, “Wouldn’t it be nice if there was something like that these days?”

one year, Bill visited long-time friend Roger Smoyer who had become ill and suggested they could build a “sleigh” out of an electric-battery-operated flatbed cart he already had, and that Roger could dress up as

Santa Claus and drive it right down Main Street.

Roger thought for a minute and replied, “You’re on!”

“Roger would drive his electric wheelchair across the street to my house, and we would discuss some of the design specifics, such as the profile of the side panels, light-ing and other aspects,” Bill said. “He would smile ear to ear during the discussion and plan-ning of the sleigh, knowing quite well that this was a little crazy and over the top.”

When the sleigh was complete and Christmas was near, Bill trailered it to the parking lot of a local shop-ping center on Main Street. Roger had his Santa suit on and was accompanied by his wife, Joanne, son Keith Smoyer and granddaughter Sara Smoyer. They and the Bryants went up and down Main Street and through parking lots.

“People were honking their horns, screaming ‘Merry Christmas’ and waving,” said Bill. “We had never seen so many camera phones at one time! They were taking pictures of Santa Claus and his sleigh.”

Roger kept saying, “This is what it’s all about.”

“Roger had a very wonderful time, which was the intent,” said Bill.

as it turned out, it was Roger’s last Christmas.

The sleigh may be best known for its appearance at the Ramona Chamber of Commerce Christmas Tree Lighting and has been a big part of many local and county-wide events over the years, including the Ramona Fire Department bicycle giveaway, Ramona Sheriff’s Christmas party, VFW gift distribution to military families, Ramona Senior

Center, Montessori Children’s House and Elementary School, San Diego Law Enforcement teddy bear drive at Children’s Hospital, Christmas party at Ronald McDonald House of San Diego, Street Masters car club toy drive at Torrey Pines High School, and Christmas Card Lane in Rancho Penasquitos.

“The first sleigh was built in 2009 and was replaced in 2010 with a new, bigger and better sleigh that runs on gasoline for longer distances and has more seating room,” Bill shared.

The sleigh will comfortably seat 14 people. Small children typically sit on a parent’s lap,

so seating capacity is increased. Judy always makes sure every-one has a set of jingle bells to shake while singing along with the sleigh’s music.

“The sleigh is an old- fashioned tradition that truly brings a lot of happiness and joy to the community, especially in a world that seems to have less and less good news on a daily basis,” said Bill. “The children we see as we drive by and wave always have an astonished look on their face that there is the Santa and his sleigh that their parents have talked about every Christmas!

“While the sleigh provides more wonderful memories than we can count, the two best memories would be the rides given to the people at Ronald McDonald House and the first run with Roger in a Santa suit, driving up Main Street Ramona.”

Last year, several illuminated Christmas gifts were added to the back of the sleigh. This year, the front suspension was rebuilt and aligned with all-new tires, performed by Ron’s Tire and Brake. There are also brand-new custom seat cushions provided by Jackie Gilbert of Ramona.

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Sleigh owners Bill Bryant, behind the wheel, and Judy Bryant, in red jacket, treat guests to a ride. Photo By Carol Kinney


“Depending on weather and other elements, we usually participate in 10 to 20 events per year,” said Judy. “The biggest crowd with the most rides is by far the Christmas Tree Lighting at

Collier Park.”“It is the excitement and participa-

tion of the people inside and outside the sleigh that inspires Judy and I to contin-ue this year after year,” said Bill. “It is not

about who built or owns the sleigh, but what it stands for.”

“It is about the spirit and joy it brings to people and their families,” Judy agreed. “our grandchildren love to ride in it every year with their friends

and families.”If you see the sleigh, honk, wave and

scream, “Merry Christmas!” The Bryant family will be ready to wave and jingle bells right back to you. n

Send this plate back FULLand we’ll feed someone.

Think about not having a meal this week. Really think about going hungry one day and not knowing if you are eating tomorrow. For many

of Ramona’s seniors and those elderly shut-ins isolated in the backcountry, it’s something they rarely stop thinking about.

For even though this appears to be just another paper plate, it’s one we cannot afford to have tossed away.

❑ $124.00 Lunch for one senior for 1 month. (includes weekends)

❑ $84.00 Lunch Monday-Friday for 1 month.

❑ $40.00 For 10 meals.

❑ _________ is my contribution to help in any way I can.

Name ___________________________________________________

Address _________________________________________________

City __________________________ State ______ Zip _________

MEALS ON THE GOA program conducted in cooperation with the San Diego Aging and Independence Services.

Send to:Ramona Senior Center

434 Aqua Lane, P.O. Box 657, Ramona, CA 92065(760) 789-0440

✃

This might become an even largerproblem to the seniors the program ismeant to serve becausefederal funding has notkept pace with inflationand the program is facing a cut of up to 25 percent.

As the only contractstation for “Meals on theGo” in Ramona and thebackcountry, our goal is toprovide a delivered mealprogram, which enableshomebound seniors to haveat least one well-balancedmeal each day. No one isever denied a meal due totheir inability to pay.Yet, in addition to the nutritional valuethis program offers, there’s an emotional

one as well. You see, every delivery madeby “Meals on the Go” brings these people

something else they wouldhave to go without — alittle companionship and conversation as well asa vital safety check.

In order to continueto provide meals andsocialization to the elderlystruggling for quality of life,we need to increase privatesupport — including yours.So when you sit down toyour daily meal and pickup your knife and fork,why not pick up a pen

as well. Complete the “Meals on the Go” coupon above and return it with your generous tax-deductible contribution.

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Ramona Home ulianJ

WRITERS: E.A. Barrera | Darrell Beck | Ann Reilly Cole | Jim Evans | Ruth Lepper | Johnny McDonald Tiffany Pressler | Jack Riordan | Tracy Rolling | Lindsay Santa | Andy Schreiber | Annette Williams

Ramona Home Journal is available FREE at Ramona Chamber of Commerce, Stater Bros., albertsons, Ramona Senior Centerand other locations.

© 2014 The Ramona Home Journal & Julian Journal. Ramona Home Journal is published every other week and Julian Journal monthly, and distributed free of charge. Advance written permission must be obtained from the Publisher for partial or complete reproduction of any part or whole of the Ramona Home Journal or Julian Journal newsmagazine, including advertising material contained in its pages. Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily the opinions of this publication. The publisher is not responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints or typographical errors in editorial or advertisements printed in the publication. We reserve the right to edit submittals. Editorials and information on calendar events are welcome. Send to the Ramona Home Journal, 726 D Street Ramona, CA 92065; or phone (760) 788-8148; e-mail [email protected] or send to Julian Journal, P. O. Box 1318, Julian, CA 92036 or e-mail [email protected]

RAMonA HoME JouRnAl726 D Street

Ramona, CA 92065760-788-8148

[email protected]: Darrel & Carol Kinney

oFFICE AdMInISTRAToR: Annette Williams | AdvERTISIng: Tracy RollingAdMInISTRATIvE ASSISTAnT: Brittney Phillips | gRAPHIC dESIgn: Mary Van Doren | Barri Groves

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ramona Senior Center staff and friends aboard the sleigh.

Children at Montessori Children’s house and elementary School enjoy a visit from the sleigh. PhotoS CourteSy of Bill and Judy Bryant

Student Food Drive Nets 1,200 Pounds

The James Dukes Student Council Service Committee, comprised of students from fourth through sixth grade, launched a food drive in sup-port of Ramona Food and Clothes Closet. Students were tasked with promoting the initiative to classmates and families, resulting in more than

1,200 pounds of food collected. It took two trips between James Dukes and Ramona Food and Clothes Closet to transfer all the donations. The student council also participated in a toy drive supporting local families that ended Dec. 12. n

Photo By StePhanie Miller

On the COver: Santa Claus delights children at the Christmas tree Lighting, pictured in a sleigh owned by Bill and Judy Bryant. Photo by Carol KiNNey


By e. A. Barrera ~ the journal

Paul newman loved the Baja 1000 race. The oscar-winning actor was a life-long racing enthusiast, and he always

said he’d wished he’d started racing the Baja 1000 earlier in his career. He managed to become the oldest competitor to finish the race when he competed at the age of 80 in 2004.

James Garner and Steve McQueen loved the Baja 1000, as well. now organized by Roger norman and SCoRE International out of Reno, nev., the race is popular with athletes, celebrities and folks who ride everything from motorcycles to multi- hundred-thousand-dollar trucks.

The race has been going in one form or another since 1967. a regular feature on the old aBC show “Wide World of Sports,” it is now considered the granddaddy of all desert races and is part of the World Championship of Desert racing.

During the week of nov. 10, thousands competed in and attended this year’s race, which stretched the length of Baja California from Ensenada to La Paz.

among the racers was a local group from San Diego, Ramona and Julian in the over-40 category. They call themselves the “HERo Racing team” and included Ramona Home Journal and Julian Journal owner Darrel Kinney; Steve Martz, John Jones and

Dan Walsh of Ramona; Paul Thomas of Julian; as well as John Griffin; Giovanni Spinali; Mike Carter; Tony Hammers; Ken Good; Brian Crouch; Chris Sanders; Don Connelly; Paul Karpf; and Tony Schmidt.

HERo Racing raced five SCoRE races this year and won all except the Baja 1000. The team is the overall points champion for the Pro40 motorcycle class. The team came in third overall and finished just one race shy of an un-defeated record this year.

“We were leading by 70 miles when one of our teammates got stuck in over three feet of mud in the middle of the night, with nobody around to help,” said HERo team leader Paul Thomas. “But that’s the sport, and it’s always unpredictable.”

a dangerous sport, last year top-seeded motocross athlete Kurt Caselli was killed during the race. The racers face exhausting and often isolated conditions in the rough deserts of Mexico. The excitement and challenge of just finishing — much less winning the race — are daunting. When you listen to the team speak about their experiences racing over 1,000 miles of

Mexican desert — in sunlight or dark, over hard rock, through cold streams that can stall your bike, or through sand so fine it feels like driving over silk — you feel the passion for the sport that has attracted the sons of British prime ministers and the sons of short-order cooks.

“Gearing, I clocked about 94–95 leaving Ensenada on a closed paved (road),” said Dan Walsh. “In the dirt, it was tough to pull 85 with wheel spin and lack of control at high RPM. I’m thinking we could have been fine with a 47-T rear, but was a good call to play it safe. I got passed by a couple guys on the straights and had noth-ing left to give.”

Walsh credited his bike, saying it “handled incredible — pulled hard out of corners. Very impressed with the bike setup, and I only regret riding a bit too conservative in the dust,” he said.

“My fastest section that I couldn’t wait for was Trinidad to San Vicente. But I was stuck in traffic with riders’ dust ahead and riders behind me, so I played it smart and kept the pressure on them.”

He waited for the other riders to make a mistake. “Finally got around the two ahead of me after choking on their dust for what seemed like forever.”

Giovanni Spinali was the rider who got caught in what has to be described as quicksand under any normal definition. His ride was harrowing, but it featured one of the nicer moments of the race.

“My first session started in San Ignacio. Mike pulls in and says he had a get-off, and the lights were pointing to the left and the clutch lever would not fully disengage. I knew if I continued like that, the clutch would fry. So while the wheels were being changed by Chris and Don, we tried to straighten the light bar,” Spinali said.

Failing to straighten out the bar, the team removed the hand guard so the clutch could have full range.

“off I went at 10:30 pm. I had a long road section to start with, and then I hit the dirt. I found it pretty difficult to push at night with the lights off to the left, but left turns were great!”

Spinali said he maintained a good pace and felt good about the time he was making when he approached a fork in the road and went in the wrong direction.

“I naturally went left but realized I was going off course. So I quickly turned

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HERo Team Scores at baja 1000

Steve Martz, left, and Paul Karpf, far right, assists ramona’s dan Walsh, center, as he gives the bike to John Griffin at rM241 after finishing his section from the starting line.

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around and took the right fork, which kept me right on course. It was a fast, dry lagoon when I pre-ran it at low tide. Well, it was now high tide, and I hit a lake at high speed that almost threw me over the bars. I kept it pinned and veered to the left where it looked dryer. Big mistake.”

Spinali rode right into quicksand and started to sink and slow considerably. He jumped off the bike and ran next to it for about 500 feet until it sank knee-deep in mud.

“I never felt so helpless in my life. The more I tried to get it out, the worse it got. I exhausted myself pulling and tugging on the bike trying to get it out, but it was use-less. There was no one around, and it was approx 1 or 2 a.m. at mile 815,” he said. “I called the chase truck and told them I was stuck. They were too far away to help. I felt like the race was over. Devastated and alone, I could only sit and pray for help. and boy did I pray!”

Then out of the corner of his eye he saw a light. It may not have been the light of providence, but it certainly turned out to be his light at the end of a tunnel.

“I wasn’t sure at first if it was a bon-fire or a vehicle, but I then noticed it was moving, and I started to run in the mud towards them,” he said. “It was a guy and his girlfriend. I managed to tell them I was stuck and needed help, and they followed. I had to retrace my steps because it was so dark I couldn’t see the bike.”

“Well, they didn’t hesitate to jump in and help tug it out, but it took all three of us. Front wheel then rear wheel, front wheel then rear wheel. as it was almost out, I got passed by a bike. We had such a big lead I had inherited.”

Spinali thanked the couple and off he

rode, with “no goggles and 60 miles left” in his section of the race. He said he was “exhausted but running on straight adrenaline.”

“not sure if I was dehydrated or just wet and completely exhausted,” he said at that point, which was 2:30 a.m. Things were still looking good with less than 200 miles to go, but then he noticed the motorcycle was leaking oil on the clutch side.

“They found a hole in the clutch cover causing the leak and replaced it. at this point, I knew the win had slipped through our fingers with less than 60 miles to go, and now it was just a matter of finishing so we could claim the championship. I got back to the bike and hopped on. I guess the racer in me and all the fans cheering had me pushing it at about 70 mph with about 20 miles to go,” he said.

Then the front of the motorcycle start-ed to violently shake. He looked down at the front wheel and realized, “Seventy-five percent of the tire had come off the rim. at this point I could not do anything but laugh! I pulled into the first set of specta-tors, and they put the tire back on with screwdrivers and held it on with zip ties. I never even got off the bike, drank a beer while they fixed it and nursed it to the finish,” Spinali said.

“I think I realized that anything can happen out there. never give up no matter what, and right when you think you have it in the bag — Baja bites!”

all the members of the HERo team had stories of the race. Tony Hammers ran into cows in the road at Bone Beach, and had kids cheering on a bluff for him near El arco.

“one of them falls off onto the course

in front of me,” Hammers said. It forced him to “fold the bike.”

“no issues, but the bike was roasting,” he said. “E-start locked, started kicking. Losing vision as you do before fainting. I hear, ‘Go! Go!’ Kid’s dad is holding the rear fender for me. Last gasp, five kicks with the e-button held down. Bike starts — this is officially a hot-start method for me going forward — set off while bordering consciousness.”

He said he “fell back” on a fatigue recovery technique “taught to me by a Czech SaR dude I know,” and two minutes later, “I’m mashing it out again. Clocked 87 on final approach.”

Paul Thomas started the HERo team as a means of both racing and supporting veterans coming back from combat. He is a former navy corpsman. He says the team

helps raise funds so that they can purchase high-end, athletic prosthetics for veterans.

“The blades are made from the same material that blades of apache helicopters are made from,” said Thomas. “They are made by ability Dynamics, and we have given out seven over the last three years.”

He wants the public to know of the HERo team’s work and encourages folks to go to their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Julian.Hard.Cider.HERo.Racing.

John Griffin summed up what most of the others were saying in their interviews and comments after the race.

“I am thankful to have ridden on the HERo team! Just being a part of this group is good, but winning it all this year is the greatest. It’s an adventure we’ll never forget.” n

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recycling available for holiday WasteRamona Disposal Service not only recycles

Christmas trees, the facility accepts kitchen fats, oil and grease left over from cooking or deep-frying a Christmas turkey. It’s a free, safe and environmentally friendly option available to residents.

Simply collect discarded oils in a leak-proof container and drop it off at Ramona Disposal’s Buyback Center at 324 Maple St. The oils will be filtered, processed and converted into bio-diesel by a third-party processor.

It is important not to mix cooking oils and byproducts with any other oils, such as motor oil or gear oil, that inhibit the process of converting it into biodiesel.

natural Christmas trees will be picked up on residents’ regular trash service day as long as they are cut into sections no longer than four feet. Trees should be clean, free of ornaments, and separate from plastic bags and yard waste.

Drop-off sites for whole trees will be located at Ramona High School, 1401 Hanson Ln., and the Village Shopping Center, 23600 San Vicente Rd., from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Dec. 27 and 28 and Jan. 3 and 4.

Call 760-789-0516 or visit www.ramonadisposal.com. n

Another Step Closer for Town Hall RestorationBy ruth Lepper ~ the journal

Restoration of the historic Ramona Town Hall has moved another step

forward following meetings with architect Mark Lyon. Woody Kirkman, president of the board of trustees, received

an estimate from Lyon for $120,000 to proceed with plans and permits for the 120-year-old building.

The entire restoration project has been estimated at $1.4 million. Kirkman said he will contact County Supervisor Dianne Jacob to see if permit

fees might be reduced or eliminated.

Trustee Darrell Beck remarked that he felt the estimate for having the plans drawn are higher than expect-ed, but are “something we can work with.”

other work planned for the Town Hall includes: • Installing roof vents for

ventilation

• Painting the front of the building

• Adding permanent speakers for the two wings and the exterior of the building

• Replacing treads on the rear stairwell

• Adding solar shades and awnings to the west wing

• Completing work on the upper-level bathroom

• Replacing flooring on the upper levelThe board is looking into

grants for which the restoration work on the hall would qualify, and also considering future fundraisers.

Visit www.ramonatownhall.com for board meeting information. n


By Annette Williams ~ the journal

The annual Ramona Chamber of Commerce Christmas Tree Lighting celebration wasn’t limited to

Collier Park, where the town’s official Christmas tree grows taller and fuller each year. Festivities also took place along Main Street.

at the park, Santa Claus arrived on a special sleigh to the delight of hundreds in attendance. on cue at 5:30 p.m., he

signaled for the tree to be illuminated in all its glory.

Students from the Ramona High School Glee Club sang carols as children had their pictures taken with Santa and parents sipped on coffee and hot chocolate. Many folks also lined up to take a ride in Santa’s sleigh.

In downtown Ramona, people took in the sights and sounds of Main Street. They were serenaded by the Ramona Community Singers performing holiday carols on the steps of Ramona Town Hall, where the entrance had been decorated for the occasion.

“The community really seemed to enjoy it,” said Chamber Director Lezley Knott, event co-chair with Janice Baldridge.

Chamber Executive Director Dr. Bob argyelan agreed. “I had a chance to go out to every store that was open. They had a brisk business with a lot of people coming in.”

He said about 16 stores were open, with many merchants offering special sales, serving treats and participating in the fun, including a Find the Elf contest.

“I heard one person say that walking from store to store was more like what a small town is supposed to be like,” said argyelan. “It was a sense of being part of a village.” n

town is alight with Christmas

Cheer

ramona high School Glee ClubPhotoS By Carol Kinney

above, refab resale. left, ramona Community Singers.

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By temperance Blackstone

The Royal alliance Band and Color Guard has always done well with its competitive field show and parade

march. Each year, the band learns a new show and new music, and the color guard learns new work and a new drill, which is the way members move around the field.

This year in particular, the Royal alliance dominated its parade division, winning first place in every competition in both the band and color guard categories. The band and guard scored high with their field show as well bringing home many first- and second-place trophies. at the Southwest Preliminary Championship Tournament in Riverside, the band place fourth overall in the 2a white division. The color guard placed second with a seasonal high score of 73.00.

“We had an extremely successful season this year, even with the rough start we had with the change in guard staff,” said a color guard member.

The band’s marching field show this year was entitled “Into the Wilderness.” It told a story of the wilderness and the wild things that inhabit it. The color guard portrayed the wild things, while the band brought the show to life with music.

The band is under the direction of drum majors Tommy Ferguson and Julian Garrido, and the color guard is under the leadership of its two captains amy and Emma Hopperton.

The show featured four soloists, with two from band and two from color guard. Emma Hopperton started off the show with a dance solo, and amy Hopperton soloed on flag in the transi-tion between the first movement and the ballad. Jake Morrison was featured as a trumpet soloist during the third movement, and Taylor Jones soloed on the trombone during the ballad, while the advanced weapon line of the color guard danced around him.

The band has faced many challenges during the season, including beginning the season with an entirely new instruc-tional staff. Zachary Christy took over direction of the Royal alliance in the fall of this year and has worked to make the band better since then. He has brought

lots of teaching talent to the band, including hiring an award-winning color guard staff.

“Mr. C is possibly the single best thing that ever happened to the Royal alliance,” said a student. “He has lots of experience with marching band, and with him leading, this band is going to go far.”

a band parent agreed. “He is refresh-ingly enthusiastic and he genuinely cares about improving the talents and abilities of the students.”

Christy is extremely dedicated to the band and color guard. He has worked tirelessly to insure the band has both the instruction and funding it needs to keep performing at a high level and to even improve its performance. During his days as a high school student, he played the tuba, pursued marching music to its highest level, and was a member of the Santa Clara Vanguard, a world-class drum corps. He encourages each and every one of his students to pursue music to wherever it will take them.

now that the marching season is over, the band and color guard will split into symphonic band and winter guard. While the band generally stays the same size throughout the year, the color guard always grows in size during the winter season.

“This year during field season, the color guard was made up of eight extremely dedicated members,” said

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amy Hopperton. “But during winter guard this year, we are looking at a guard of about 20, which is the largest the guard has been since I joined the program five years ago.”

Coming off an extremely success-ful fall season, both the band and color guard are looking forward to an even

more successful winter season. Ramona Home Journal is proud

to present articles from the Ramona High School advanced journalism class, taught by Ruth Pluciennik. Look for the students’ reports featured in the Journal on a regular basis. n

Color guard captains amy and emma hopperton salute the Mira Mesa Band leadership at an awards ceremony. Both marched with the Santa Clara Vanguard Cadets in the 2014 season.

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Ken Woodward day in the CountyKen Woodward receives a plaque from ramona Pioneer historical Society President Judy nachazel commemorating his 20 years as director of the Guy B. Woodward Museum. San diego County proclaimed friday, dec. 19, 2014, as “Ken Woodward day” throughout the county.

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rhS Girls Volleyball brings home CiF title for the bulldogsBy Jack riordan ~ the journal

Hard work, raw talent, experience under pressure and intelligent

coaching. It goes without saying that these are important elements found in most successful sports teams. But there is another intangible ingredient that often makes all the difference when the game is on the line — a concept known as “team chemistry.”

Few sports rely on a cohe-sive and genuine sense of team chemistry as much as volleyball, and the 2014 Ramona High School Varsity Girls Volleyball team proved it on their way to winning the CIF San Diego Section Championship in november.

This year’s team had just one senior on the squad, Robyn arthur. She was one of five play-ers returning to the team from last season, and they added five more girls who had plenty of relevant experience playing club volleyball but were new to the Ramona system.

Still, the team meshed right away, with every player finding a useful niche to fill under the instruction of longtime RHS

Girls Volleyball Coach Dawn Halfaker.

This year marked Coach Halfaker’s 16th season lead-ing Ramona’s girls’ program, and she humbly says that she had been teaching the sport for “a long time” before that. Regarding this year’s team, Halfaker was very impressed with how they have selflessly filled whatever role was best for the team overall.

With just the one senior on the squad and only two juniors, concerns about leadership and teamwork might begin to creep into the minds of some coaches, but not Halfaker.

“Team chemistry is impor-tant in any sport, but espe-cially for girls,” she said as she watched her team warm up for their match against Calvin Christian. “Girls play for each other, and this team bonded right away.”

The team went undefeated (10-0) in league play and finished the year with an impressive 31-7 record.

as the Bulldogs rattled off win after win, whether home or away, interest grew, and with it so did the crowds in the stands.

In an epic back-and-forth match against Calvin Christian High School in the semifinal

round of the CIF San Diego Section playoffs, a raucous visiting crowd began to rally behind their team with a series of well-rehearsed chants. The Crusaders fed off their fans’ energy, and momentum began to swing their way, leading to a brief scoring rally.

With the bleachers packed, Ramona’s fans responded with a deafening roar of cheers, fol-lowed by a young man from the student body appearing seemingly out of nowhere with a larger-than-life blue flag with a gigantic “R” on each side. He sprinted down the sideline, raising the crowd to a fevered

pitch before turning around and heading back the way he came, vanishing through the gymnasium doors.

The boost was all the RHS girls needed, and soon they were raising their hands in victory on their way to the CIF San Diego Section finals — and their opportunity to bring a championship banner home for the Bulldogs.

Coming off of the emotional win on a Wednesday night, the team was slotted to play again just three days later on nov. 25 for the title against a formidable otay Ranch team. The quick turnaround proved to be no

ramona’s natalie Seol (8) rises up for the Bulldog block against Calvin Christian high School, as fellow sophomore Sammy Shupe (13) waits for the dig. Photo By JaCK riordan

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match for the Bulldogs, and while they were forced to play from behind in the first two games, they swept the Mustangs 3-0 for the well-earned victory.

as an RHS alumni herself, Jamie Wilson and her husband, Matt, have both been impressed with the program that Coach Halfaker has put into place, as their daughter Morgan has seen her ability and skill level shoot way up throughout the season. Just a sophomore this year, Wilson is a perfect example of how bright Ramona’s future is on the court.

Marti Hickle’s daughter Sydney is a junior this year and also played a pivotal role in the team’s success throughout the season. at the team ban-quet, Sydney was awarded the coach’s Defensive MVP award.

If Marti Hickle seemed a little less anxious than the other parents this season, it might be because 2014 was not her first time around with Halfaker.

Her two older daughters, Becca and Jenna, also played volleyball at RHS for Halfaker. In fact, in 2009, the RHS Girls Volleyball team also brought

home a CIF Championship, and Becca was on that team.

also on that championship team was Robyn arthur’s older sister, Jaycee. Both Jaycee and Becca were in attendance at the finals versus otay Ranch to see their younger sisters follow in their footsteps here in 2014.

The San Diego Section Championship earned the team a berth in the California State Playoffs, but their 10-match winning streak was snapped in the first round by a very talented Village Christian High School team out of the

Los angeles area. of course, nobody wants to

end the season on a sideout, but the RHS team ended theirs with their heads held high, and rightfully so.

Robyn arthur ended the season as team captain and MVP, u-T all-academic Team Scholar, Valley League MVP, and San Diego Section all-CIF

Team member. The 2014 RHS Varsity Girls

Volleyball team gave their senior teammate, themselves, their coaches, classmates and fans a season full of memories that will last a lifetime. and with so much talent waiting in the wings, the Bulldogs are set to do it all over again in 2015. n

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Offered at $915,000the 2014 rhS Varsity Girls Volleyball Cif San diego Section Championship team, back row from left, McKenna Marshall, natalie Seol, Sammy Shupe, Morgan Wilson, tyler daniel, nicole donais, amanda donais and Karina Martinez, and front row, Katie flynn, robyn arthur and Sydney hickle.

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FOR THOSE CHRISTMAS SMILES!

By tracy rolling ~ the journal

Few people think of car-rots as an ideal Christmas present. But for local horse

trainer Tony Smith, carrots for Christmas are a family tradition.

“We always give the horses carrots on Christmas,” he said, describing how the holidays can be particularly special for young riders.

“Children are only young once,” he says.

His daughter, Sabrina, fell in love with horses at an early age, he says. Before her first birthday she was riding, and entered her first horse show when she was 7.

“Basically you could say she’s been riding all of her life.”

“I like being outdoors and I love my horse Trigger,” says 12-year-old Sabrina. “Riding is always an adventure.”

Smith shares how he and his wife, Deedra, got Trigger when he was only a year and half old. Coming from a long blood-line of national Cutting Horse association champions, Trigger was originally a cutting horse. Smith owned the horse with a partner, splitting the purchase price as well as the

daily expenses.“He’s not the type of horse

you’d put a kid on. He’s what you call a ‘shake and bake,’ in other words, the kind of horse that would make people hoot and holler from the stands.

“But the next thing you know, Sabrina was riding him. My partner saw their bond and said, ‘If your daughter loves the horse, you should keep it.’ and he wouldn’t take any money.”

Today, Trigger is 16 years old. He and Sabrina have proven to be a successful team, winning multiple championships over the past several years, including a walk/jog open and trail open in Ramona this past year.

“I like to trail ride, but I like to show, too,” she says, adding that it’s both fun and challenging to maneuver Trigger over bridges, back-ward between logs, and other obstacles, including a cowboy curtain, which is designed to test the trust between horse and trainer.

“The longer I ride, the more confident I feel, and the more I trust him,” she says.

Between school and karate lessons, Sabrina rides five days a week.

Relating to the positive influence a horse can make in a child’s life is Ramona resident Stacy McComack.

“after my sister passed away of breast cancer 11 years ago, my nieces were devastated,” she says.

The young girls, Emily and Madi Franklin, had been encour-aged to ride by their mother, Elizabeth. The Christmas after her passing, McComack’s bother in-law, Charlie Franklin, pur-chased the girls a horse, Missy.

“They were so happy! We put a red bow on Missy’s head and sent the girls down to the barn to find their gift,” she said. It was their first horse, and provided a good lesson that it’s not so easy to split one horse between two girls.

at the time Madi was 8 and Emily was 9.

Today, the girls are 18 and 19, and still riding strong. Through the loving support of their dad and aunt, they’ve purchased and sold several horses over the years, and have learned some of life’s most valuable lessons, such as love, respect and responsibility.

“The horses have meant everything to the girls,” says

Sabrina Smith leads Miss Cindy, owned by elanore larson, through a cowboy curtain. PhotoS CourteSy of tony SMith


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McComack, telling how at first they were English riders, then in high school, they switched to barrel racing.

“Both are doing awesome!” she shares. “Recently one was accepted into Montana university where she will study for an equine degree. The other is attending college and working as an assistant trainer in Poway.”

appreciative for the opportunity to be part of their upbringing, McComack remembers when she was a little girl and was given the opportunity to ride.

“Back then we didn’t have helmets, and I could go out for hours. I felt so free and happy. at the same time, my horse gave me a sense of responsibility, like I had to be a smart rider so that nothing happened to him.”

Smith works with McComack and has for the past three years. She says, “He’s taught me how to have a deeper knowledge of horsemanship and has renewed some of the confidence I’ve lost over the years.”

With a goal to build confidence between horse and handler, Smith teaches that there are both positive and negative repercussions

for every action. “Riders need to be able to

identify when a horse is scared or confused so that they can act accordingly,” he says. “There are a lot of red flags out there, but

when you can read a horse, you can prevent accidents from happening.”

In addition to establishing trust, Smith says riding is physically demand-ing and requires good memorization skills when it comes to show patterns.

He credits Henry Jaggi, owner of Hidden Horse Ranch, for his great care and ongo-ing generosity, as well as Kathy Pritcher and Candice Regal, who have helped Sabrina with various elements, including halter, showmanship, dressage, jumping and equitation, which is a rider’s posture.

“Sometimes it’s hard for kids to listen to their parents. Kathy and Candice have made a tremendous difference.”

Excited to see his daughter mature into a great rider, Smith

says one of the hardest things has been waiting for her legs to grow so that she can use them in combination with her hands to improve her overall hip, rib

and shoulder control. “There’s no magic wand.

Good horse training just takes time. It’s a matter of controlling the animal’s energy without taking away his energy.”

Sabrina says, “I’ve known Trigger all of my life. We’ve

grown up together. He’s the perfect horse for me and I can’t wait for Christmas!”

She plans to give him a stocking full of treats, ride him around the ranch, and feed him his favorite food — carrots for Christmas. n

Sabrina Smith was riding horses before her first birthday.

Stacy McComack’s nieces emily and Madi franklin received their first horse for Christmas 11 years ago.

Photo CourteSy of StaCy MCCoMaCK


By Annette Williams ~ the journal

Dr. Michael Barker made an indelible impact during his 31-year career as a

medical doctor in Ramona, caring for patients at every stage of their lives.

He was in private practice

here from 1978 to 2009. It was an era when doctors made house calls, and numerous families are grateful for his personal attention at their time of greatest need.

after retirement from his medical practice, he worked an additional year and a half as

an urgent care doctor before moving on to another season of service, both within the medical community and apart from it.

as for medical-related efforts, Barker is a member of the San Diego County Medical Society retired physicians commit-tee and the San Diego County Coalition. The latter is an organization that deals with end-of-life care.

“Some policy-making is involved, but we also do speak-ing,” Barker says of the coalition, which gave a presentation at Ramona Library earlier this year.

non-medical-related, he is a benefactor of the Ramona Concert association. “I belonged to it years ago and joined again this year,” he says, adding that he was able to attend the first concert of the current season and enjoyed it very much.

as a member of the Ramona Pioneer Historical Society, he offered a unique donation to the organization. “The display case of old medical objects that was in my office for years is now in the Guy B. Woodward Museum,” he says.

“I also belong to the Ramona Valley Vintners association, but have only a small vineyard.” He is not making wine at this point,

but enjoys “growing things.”

In a more hands-on role, Barker is a board member for the Friends of the Ramona Library and has been involved with the group’s annual authors’ Day at the Library since its inception three years ago, along with co-chair Chuck LeMenager.

While not a writer himself, he says, “It’s been very interesting and very rewarding dealing with the authors.”

Barker will begin serving a one-year term as president of the Friends group on Jan. 1, taking over from outgoing President Karyn Smith. He was the board’s administrative vice president/president-elect in 2014.

It’s not widely known that the Friends group funds many library programs through bookstore sales, membership and donations.

“The county provides the facility, but the programs are funded by the Friends,” Barker says.

He adds that the group welcomes new members and individuals who would like to volunteer at the bookstore.

“our website, www.friend-soframonalibrary.org, will be updated in January with appli-cations to join the Friends, and more information for volunteer opportunities. I would like to increase membership in the Friends, especially life member-ship.”

one of his goals for the year is making the group better known, he says, “To make the public more aware of what the Friends are about and let them know about the programs we’re involved in at the library.”

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friends of the ramona library directors dr. Michael Barker, left, and Chuck leMenager. Barker begins his term as president Jan. 1. Photo By flo firth

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Even with a full plate, he still finds time for recreation.

“I do a lot of reading,” he says, which is just what you’d expect to hear from the president of a Library Friends group.

“I do gardening, hiking, traveling. I certainly stay busy!” n

Friends of the Ramona

library’s 2015 officers

In addition to President Dr. Michael Barker, Friends of the Ramona Library 2015 officers are Linda Cunningham, vice president of administration; Cheryl Story, vice president of membership; Flo Firth, secretary; and Jan Callahan, treasurer.

Directors are Kaaren Chatfield, Dante Cosentino, nancy Dohren, Joan Gansert, Vern Hazen, Chuck LeMenager, ann Morgart, Stacey Riordan, Karyn Smith, Judith Tushoph and Teresa Warner.

Elyse Kuhn is president emeritus, and Dick Wayman is the County Friends liaison. n

Century 21 award Welcomes linda Neill

Century 21 award an-nounced that Linda neill has joined its Ramona

office. She has 30-plus years of experience in the field and most recently worked in the company’s La Mesa office. She has lived in Ramona for eight years and is a member of the Ramona Chamber of Commerce and Ramona Real Estate association.

neill specializes in real estate

as broker associate and as a home stager. She is committed to continuing her real estate education and has given seminars on the different aspects of purchasing real estate.

“We believe her experience will greatly enhance the services we provide to the Ramona community,” said Jami Waldon, Century 21 award Ramona office administrator. n

ramona Chamber of Commerce welcomes linda neill, center, with a ribbon cutting. Photo CourteSy of raMona ChaMBer of CoMMerCe


L ike everyone else, you have financial goals. To help achieve these goals, you

may need to invest — and when you invest, you’ll need to take on some risk. But the more you understand this risk, and the better you are at managing it, the greater your potential for staying invested for the

long term. To begin with, then, take a

look at these terms:• Risk tolerance — Your

risk tolerance is essentially your comfort level with taking risk. For example, if you have a high tolerance for risk, you may be comfortable investing aggres-

Financial Focus

Submitted by Patrick Meskell

Balance ‘Risk Tolerance’ and ‘Required Risk’

Sarah Hine

760 789-2665

912 D Street, #A•Ramona, CA 92065

[email protected]

Bookkeeping at ease

“Specializing in Quickbooks”

sively. Conversely, if you tend to be risk-averse, you might lean more toward more conservative investment vehicles that offer greater protection of principal.

• Required risk — While the term “required risk” may sound odd, it is actually an inte-gral component of your ability to invest successfully. Basically, your required risk is the level of risk necessary to help you achieve your investment goals. The higher the return necessary to reach those goals, the more potential risk you’ll need to assume.

as you invest, you’ll need to balance these two aspects of risk. For example, what might happen if you have a low risk tolerance, leading you toward “safer,” low-growth investments, but your goal is to retire early? For most people, this goal requires them to invest in vehi-cles that offer significant growth potential, such as stocks. and, as you know, investing in stocks entails risk — specifically, the risk that your stocks will lose value. So in this situation, your risk tolerance — the fact that

you are risk-averse — is going to collide with your required risk level, the amount of risk you are going to need to take (by investing in stocks) to achieve your goal of early retirement.

When such a collision occurs, you have two choices. First, you could “stretch” your risk tolerance and accept the need to take on riskier invest-ments in exchange for the growth potential you will require. Your other choice is to stay within your risk tolerance and adjust your ultimate goal — which, in this example, may mean accepting a later retirement date.

obviously, this is a personal decision. However, you may have more flexibility than you might have imagined. For instance, you might feel that you should be risk-averse because you have seen so many fluctuations in the financial markets. But if you have many decades to go until you retire, you actually do have time to recover from short-term losses, which means you may be able

to reasonably handle more volatility. on the other hand, once you’re retired, you won’t have as many years to bounce back from market downturns, so you’ll have less “risk capacity” than you did when you were younger.

In any case, by balancing your risk tolerance and your required risk level — and by understanding your risk capac-ity — you can be better pre-pared to take the emotion out of investing. When investors let their emotions get the better of them, they can make mistakes such as chasing “hot” stocks or selling quality investments due to temporary price drops. By having a clear sense of what risk really entails, however, you may be able to avoid costly detours — and stick with your long-term investment strategy. n

Patrick Meskell is a financial advisor for Edward Jones. He can be reached at 760-787-1113. Patrick Meskell’s office, 1425 Main Street, Ramona, is located in the Albertsons Center.

The annual San Diego Country Estates Christmas tree lighting on Dec. 7 featured a few surprises this year. Santa Claus made a first-time appear-ance, sponsored by Stephanie norvell of Town & Country Real Estate and Home Loans. He arrived by train, which also offered rides to guests.

The event included an opportunity for children to decorate ornaments, provided by SDCE, which they put on the tree.

“Kids sat on Santa’s lap, and there were free train rides for the families,” said norvell, who has lived in the Estates for 28 years. “There was a non-stop line for Santa, and the same for

the train. We were happy to provide Santa and the train to

expand on their annual event for the kids.” n

PhotoS by ChriS aNDerSoN

Santa and Train Star at SDCE Tree Lighting

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San Diego County Sheriff’s Department announced that there will be increased

crime-fighting initiatives in progress through Jan. 3, includ-ing horse, bicycle and volunteer patrols at Kmart, albertsons, Stater Bros. and other business-es along Main Street between Pala and Sixth streets.

The department also issued a list of holiday crime preven-tion guidelines, such as shop-ping during the day and with a friend; being aware of your surroundings; not overloading your arms with packages and bags while shopping; parking in a well-lit area; having keys out and ready when approaching your car; being aware of how you carry your purse or wallet; locking car doors and taking valuables with you; and locking packages in the trunk of the car.

Regarding home safety, the department urges residents to always lock doors and windows, especially at night and when away; avoid opening doors to strangers; place gifts where they cannot be seen from an open window or door; and after opening presents, do not pile empty boxes on the street.

For those who will be traveling, the department suggests residents lock doors and windows and activate the

alarm; not share travel plans on social media; sign up for a free vacation check at www.sdsher-iff.net/patrol so Sheriff’s Senior Volunteer Patrol members can keep an eye on the home; hold the delivery of mail and news-paper or ask a trusted friend to pick them up; and ask a neighbor to occasionally park in the driveway.

Sheriff’s Crime Prevention Specialists offer a free security check to show vulnerabilities in your home. Ramona residents may schedule a visit by calling 760-738-2425.

The public is reminded that deputies will be on the lookout for drunk drivers this holiday season.

The county crisis hotline is

open 24 hours a day for those who need someone to talk to during the holiday season. Call 888-724-7240.

Sheriff stations, substations and headquarters will be closed for Christmas, Dec. 25, and new Year’s Day, Jan. 1, 2015. The Ramona Substation office at 1424 Montecito Rd. is included among the holiday closures.

Business office closures will not impact deputies in the field or employees scheduled for on-call, and all detention facilities will remain open.

For emergencies, call 911. For non-emergencies, call the Ramona Substation at 760-789-9157 or Dispatch at 858-565-5200. Visit www.sdsheriff.net. n

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©2014 San Diego Gas & Electric Company. Trademarks are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

“Make your winter more comfortable and save energy too.”

• Save up to 20%* on heating bills by lowering your thermostat 3˚ to 5˚

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For more winter-savings ideas, connect at sdge.com/winter.

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4SDG12677__WP_CoffeeCup__Run: 12_18_14__RamonaJournal__7.94x10

4SDG12677_WP_Coffee_RAMONAJOURNAL_7.94x10.indd 1 12/9/14 11:46 AM

Sheriff Dept. Says Stay Safe During the Holidays

The winter solstice takes place in December every year and marks the longest period of darkness in the northern hemi-sphere. The summer solstice takes place concurrently in the Southern hemisphere at this time. The winter solstice does not last the entire day but is the point at which the sun is shining farthest to the south, directly over the Tropic of Capricorn. The sun also appears at the lowest point in the sky. Its noontime elevation seems to be the same for several days before and after the solstice. The solstice typically falls on December 21 or December 23 each year. areas of the northern hemisphere will experience only about nine hours of daylight on the solstice, while other areas that are farther north, such as Iceland and nome, alaska, may only have between four and seven hours of daylight. However, all areas above a latitude of 66.5 degrees north, including the arctic Polar Circle, do not experience a sunrise dur-ing the solstice. While it may seem like winterdarkness will stretch on interminably, following the winter solstice, the days begin to gradually grow longer and the nights shorter. In 2014, the win-ter solstice will occur on Sunday, December 21. n

Did You Know?


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By Jim evans ~ the journal

Shoppers have been busy — well, shopping — during the past few weeks, so this intrepid reporter

braved the rush to find out what they would like for Christmas this year.

not surprisingly, the adults were more philosophical, but the kids knew exactly what they wanted to find under the Christmas tree.

Shannon, left, and Alissa Desperz, Ramona

“I hope that Santa will bring lots of gifts for my grandson Zachary (Desperz), 8, in auburn,” says Shannon. “and, I’d like to receive my disability check in

time so that I can help Santa make this an even more special Christmas for him,” adds his mother, alissa. “Merry Christmas, everyone!”

Robert Escudero, Ramona“I’d like to see Santa

help bring people together again over the holidays and return the integrity and respect to our country that we used to enjoy,” says Robert, as he gener-

ously donated to a Salvation army kettle outside Circle K.

Chantas, left, and Carolina Flores, Ramona

Chantas, 9, would like to receive an iPod from Santa. “no, not an ‘eye’ pod — an iPod,” she insists with a grin. “Shoes,” says her sister Carolina, 15.

What kind of shoes? “Just a nice pair of white shoes.”

Carol Boortz, Ramona“I wish for more

goodwill among us,” says Carol. “and I hope that everyone might have their needs met during this holiday season.”

Juan Arandas, RamonaJuan, 13, would

like “a Galaxy V phone” from Santa, he says with a big smile. a young man who knows what he wants.

Jade, left, and Barbie

Tipton, LakesideJade Tipton, 4,

from Lakeside, was shopping with her grandmother Barbie Tipton and wants a “pink truck” from Santa to carry around her Barbie dolls. Too

shy to speak to strangers, she whispered what she wanted in Grandma’s ear. She said it would also be oK if the truck is big enough for her to drive.

Michael Todd, Escondido“Peace on earth

and goodwill toward all men,” says Michael, of Escondido. This is not a cliché for Mike, a bell-ringer for the Salvation army for the past eight years.

Hit by a drunk driver several years ago, he still manages to stand on his feet all day singing Christmas carols despite persistent pain from injuries to his legs and back.

John, left, and Noah Baay, Juliannoah, 2, can’t

say too much yet, but he knows what he likes. “Trucks,” says his daddy John Baay. “anything and everything about trucks,” he laughs. What’s in his hand? Why, a truck, of course.

In the end, Christmas is still for the kids to enjoy and for adults to philosophize. What would you like for Christmas? n

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What Would You Like for Christmas?

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The holiday season has arrived, and millions of people across the globe

will be celebrating Christmas with their families and friends. The following are some interest-ing tidbits to share with your loved ones this holiday season.• Each year, more than three

billion Christmas cards are sent in the united States alone.

• In 350 AD, Pope Julius I, bishop of Rome, proclaimed December 25 the official celebration date for the birth of Jesus Christ. Many historians and theolo-gians have surmised that Christ really wasn’t born this time of year, thanks to imagery and information from the Bible.

• Christmas carols began as an English custom called “wassail-ing.” Individuals toasted neigh-bors to a long and healthy life.

• Despite the common tale that three wise men paid homage to baby Jesus, the Bible never specifically calls out a number. Similarly, there’s no specific indication that they visited the infant Jesus. Their visit may have occurred when Jesus was older.

• Santa Claus’ modern look was inspired by writings from The Knickerbockers of new York and imagery from Clement Clarke Moore’s “a Visit from St. nicholas.” Moore denied authoring the famous poem for 15 years after it was published anonymously, feeling the poem was beneath his talents.

• Santa has his own official postal code. It’s H0 H0 H0.

• The song “Jingle Bells” was orig-inally written for Thanksgiving and not Christmas. People loved it so much that the lyrics were changed to fit Christmas.

• Christmas was not declared an official holiday in the united States until June 26, 1870.

• Male reindeer tend to shed their antlers in the winter. This means Santa’s reindeer are likely female.

• Christ may have been born in a cave rather than a manger. according to the gospel of Luke, the shepherds that helped find shelter for Mary to give birth kept their flock in a cave. The Church of the nativity in Bethlehem is built over a cave called the Grotto of the nativity, where Jesus is believed to have been born.

• Many people may be less inclined to stand under mistle-toe waiting for a kiss if they knew what “mistletoe” means in the ancient Germanic language. It literally means “dung on a twig,” for the bird who eats the berries and then leaves seeds in droppings to propagate new plants. n

Seasonal Snippets







Tempting Ways To Impress

By Johnny McDonald

Behind the Wheel

Highly polished new cars glistening under bright lights and positioned on

carpeted floors, large video screens and attractive, well-informed ladies will be the sales

pitch ingredients for the best of 2015 at the four-day San Diego International auto Show in the San Diego Convention Center, opening new Year’s Day.

new Car Dealers association officials estimate that 50 per-cent of the attendees will be prospective customers.

“What I have seen in auto-show surveys is that consum-ers will add a brand over that which they had intended to buy because of what they’ve seen in the show,” said Scott Webb, director of marketing and oper-ations for he nCDa. “Something they hadn’t considered.”

That’s the competitive spirit of a show where the cars are the stars.

Webb said they used to acquire crates of brochures, but the manufacturers found that wasn’t the way to get feedback from the public. Instead, it’s time to talk.

He feels there may be some similarities in exterior design but says interior changes offer advanced electronics such as navigation equipment, backup monitors and entertainment systems.

Webb came to San Diego after serving 17 years as assis-tant general manager at the Los angeles auto Show.

“We’ll eventually see a return

to the more fanciful design exercises with peeks at what the automobile might become,” he said. “The life cycle would become shorter and shorter. Cars will need to be redesigned more often.

“It’s a matter of scale and scope, because the automobile is still complex. The auto show enables manufacturers to obtain some feedback that adds to the tool chest.”

California is the largest car market in the u.S. It’s no sur-prise that the state also has the largest concentration of auto-motive design studios than any other place in the world.

From San Diego to Thousand oaks, there are 15 design out-posts for carmakers ranging from audi to Volvo.

at these locations, more

detailed drawings are executed and approved by appropriate layers of management. Clay (industrial plasticine) and digital models are developed along with the drawings. The data from these models are then used to create a full-size mock-up of the final design.

Motorsports Notes• On Jan. 10, the Horseless

Carriage Club will remember the 100th anniversary of the 300-mile international auto race, which was held on Point Loma streets to bring attention to the Panama-California Exposition. ancient cars, some from the time of the historic race, will be on display at Balboa Park’s automotive Museum. between 10 and 11 a.m. Earl Cooper drove a Stutz to vic-tory. In the18-car field were Indianapolis drivers Barney oldfield, Bob Burman and Eddie Rickenbacker, who later become a flying ace in World War I. The San Diego union estimated that the crowd was 25,000.

• The popular Monster Energy aMa Supercross has been scheduled for San Diego on Feb. 7. But there’s a new venue. It’ll be staged in Petco Park rather than Qualcomm Stadium.

• According to National Speed Sport news, IndyCar has revealed the 2015 IndyCar Series will feature 17 events, two new race venues and a total of six aBC and 13 nBC Sports network broadcasts. The diverse calendar will include six ovals, six road courses and four tem-porary street circuits.

• The Toyota Grand Prix Long Beach is on april 19.

• Four-time Indianapolis 500 winner a.J. Foyt underwent successful triple coronary bypass surgery in Houston last month after being diagnosed with blockages. Foyt, 79, had been admitted to the Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center with intermittent chest pains.

• Running their game plan to perfection, a desert racing dream team of Rob MacCachren of Las Vegas, andy McMillin of San Diego and Jason Voss of Gilroy won the overall title in the 47th annual SCoRE Baja 1000, measuring 1,275 miles this year. They completed the run with a Trophy Truck in 22 hours, 31 minutes, 27 seconds. There were 200 entries.

• Erica Enders became the first woman to win an nHRa Pro Stock world championship when she defeated her closest points rival Jason Line in the final round of the auto Club nHRa Finals last month. n

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By ruth Lepper ~ the journal

Ramona Municipal Water District Board of Directors seated Division 2’s new representative, recently

elected Jim Hickle, at its Dec. 9 meeting and selected a new director to fill the vacancy for Division 3.

an impressive number of seven applicants vied for the seat, which became vacant following Rex Schildhouse’s resignation on oct. 30. after a lengthy interview session, the directors chose arnie Cares to fill the seat, based on his background in finance and accounting.

Cares was familiar with current proj-ects facing the district and the only one of the seven candidates who had attended board meetings in the past year, averaging about 60 percent of meetings and special events.

“I can hit the ground running,” Cares told the board. “now that the meetings are one a month, I fully expect to be here 100 percent of the time.”

other applicants for the vacant seat included Thomas ace, Robert Krysak, Matthew Marler, Jim Piva, George Postulka and James Rudeen.

In other business before the board, the directors recognized two retirees —

Jimmy Bartlett and Gary Walker — who will be leaving the district at the end of the month. Bartlett works in meter services and has been with the district 32 years. Walker retires as a systems supervisor after 37 years. Board presi-dent Darrell Beck presented the men with proclamations honoring their time and “outstanding contributions” with the district.

Chief Burke Kremensky announced the fire department has received a grant of $25,000 from San Diego Regional Fire Foundation. The funds will be used for operating costs for six automatic vehicle locators in use by Ramona Fire Department. The fully integrated locators keep track of mapping and response systems of all the department’s vehicles

and are a major asset to the dispatch services.

Human Resources Manager Tim Clement presented an agenda item calling for an amendment to the ordinance allowing the general manager an increase in the amount currently allotted to him for approving contracts for smaller projects without first going before the board.

The current amount is $35,000. The recommendation was to increase the amount to $75,000 – the first increase in 10 years. after much discussion, the board agreed to change the amount from $35,000 to $60,000. General Manager David Barnum said this will

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rMWD board Names arnie Cares to Vacant Seat

See RMWD Board continued on page 30

rMWd Board President darrell Beck, right, swears in directors, from left, arnie Cares, Joe Zenovic and Jim hickle. Cares was selected to fill the vacancy for division 3, Zenovic was unopposed for re-election for division 5, and hickle won the election for division 2. Photo By ruth lePPer


December 18, 2014

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new Year’s Eve festivities peak when the official countdown of the clock begins. after the ball drops and

midnight has arrived, revelers cheer to the new year and exchange kisses and well wishes.

once such wishes have been exchanged, many people begin to sing “auld Lang Syne.” But few know what “auld Lang Syne” means or why it is sung on new Year’s Eve. Confusion regard-ing this song is almost as notable as the tradition of singing it. Many people

mumble through the lyrics because they never bothered to learn them.

“auld Lang Syne” is a Scottish com-position that is well over 200 years old. Written by Robert Burns in the 1700s, the author never intended for the song to become a staple of the holiday season. It was originally a poem that was later put to the tune of a traditional folk song. The title translates roughly in English as “old long since,” or “long, long ago.” The song pays homage to times gone by and past experiences.

The song has been performed at group jamborees, funerals and other special occasions all over the world, but it is best known for its affiliation with new Year’s festivities. The man behind that affiliation may be Canadian musician Guy Lombardo, whose band used “auld Lang Syne” as a bridge between two radio programs during a live new Year’s Eve performance in 1929. Coincidentally, the song was played directly after the clock struck midnight, laying the ground-work for a new Year’s Eve tradition. now “auld Lang Syne” has forever been tied to well-intentioned resolutions and sappy slaps on the back. Despite selling millions of records, Lombardo became more famous for his new Year’s Eve song than anything else.

Confusion over “auld Lang Syne” remains to this day. It has been the butt of jokes in popular culture, even earn-ing a nod in the movie “When Harry Met Sally.” Harry laments to Sally that he never quite understood what the song meant and ponders whether it is about forgetting about friends or remembering them. Sally sums it up by saying the song is simply about old friends.

That is the interpretation many new Year’s Eve celebrants embrace as they toast to the new year and sing their hearts out. For those who never bothered to learn or have forgotten the

words to this staple of new Year’s celebrations, here is the popularized English translation sung most often.

“Auld Lang Syne”Should old acquaintances be forgotten, and never brought to mind?Should old acquaintances be forgotten, and days of old lang syne.Chorus:For auld lang syne, my dearFor auld lang syne,We will take a cup of kindness yetFor auld lang syne.We two have run about the hillsides and pulled the daisies fine,But we have wandered many a weary foot for times gone by.We two have paddled (waded) in the stream from noon until dinner time,But seas between us broad have roared since auld lang syne.and there is a hand, my trusty friend,and give us a hand of yours,and we will take a goodwill drinkFor auld lang syne.and surely you will pay for your pint, and surely I will pay for mine!and we will take a cup of kindness yet for auld lang syne. n





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By Lindsay Santa ~ the journal

Fifth- and sixth-grade students of Ramona Lutheran Christian School (RLCS) joined four other schools for a week-long camp program at Indian Hills Camp in Jamul. It was a first-time experience for the school’s students.

Each year, more than 18,000 kids have the opportunity to be a part of what the camp offers. The campground is filled with open fields and oak groves — the perfect setting for an out-door education experience. The nonprofit campground has been operating since 1960.

Campers studied science topics, including astronomy, the growth of oak trees in California, survival skills and reptiles and insects.

“We really had a great time,” said RLCS fifth- and sixth-grade teacher Elaine Crary. “We learned many camp songs, went hiking, participated in archery lessons, went on zip lines — we even rode bikes on the camp BMX track.”

Crary continued, “IHC’s goal is to guide students toward a discovery of God through the window of His creation. While there, we learned about how God created us and how we are valuable to Him.” n

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What Christmas is All AboutBy rev. Andy Schreiber

Can you believe that the classic Peanuts cartoon “a Charlie Brown Christmas”

came out nearly 50 years ago this Christmas? That does not seem possible, does it?

When I was a kid, I loved that cartoon. oK, I still love that cartoon.

Do you remember the ques-tion Charlie Brown asks toward the

end of the show? In exaspera-tion, he asks, “Isn’t there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?”

Have you ever looked at all the hustle and bustle going on at this time of year and felt the same way? Have you ever wanted to ask if anyone these days knows what Christmas is all about?

after all these years, it is still pretty difficult to improve upon the simple answer Linus gave to his friend Charlie Brown. What was his answer? He quoted from the Gospel according to Luke:

“and there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. and, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon

them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. and the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. and this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. and suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” (Luke 2:8-14, King James Version)

The birth of Jesus Christ is “good news of great joy” (verse 10). and it was good news, because it was news about the birth of the long-awaited Savior, who is “Christ the Lord” (verse 11).

It was such good news that a multitude of the heavenly host could not help but praise God for His glory and for His grace toward mankind. It is still good news of great joy because it is still the news of the one-and-only Savior of sinners.

Linus had it right. That is what Christmas is all about. n

Rev. Andy Schreiber is pastor of Ramona Valley Presbyterian Church. He may be reached at 760-787-1570 or [email protected].

rev. andy Schreiber

lutheran school students camp and learn

ramona lutheran Christian School students roast hot dogs over an open fire at indian hills Camp. Photo By elaine Crary

A Wish For You at The Holidays

May the Yuletide spirit shed its lightMaking your holiday merry and bright;May peace, joy and good will abound,Spreading good cheer all around;May glad tidings come your wayAs you celebrate the holiday;And may all your hopes and dreams come true . . .That’s our Christmas wish for you!With gratitude for your valued patronage all year long.

— Darrel and Carol Kinney

Ramona Home Journal 726 D Street, Ramona • 760-788-8148 • ramonajournal.com


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allow him to move ahead on smaller projects and not have to delay action until the contracts were approved by the board. He will continue to report to the board on all actions taken.

approval also was given to amend two ordinances cover-ing the San Vicente Service area and the Santa Maria Water Reclamation Plant. a public hearing for the adoption of revisions to the San Vicente Service area Sewer Capacity Charge elicited no response from the public.

The amendment to the ordinance, which covers recycled water use and treatment requirements in the San Vicente area, will be expanded to increase the plant’s capacity for the number of millions of gallons per day flow rates.

Bids will be accepted for the Santa Maria Water Reclamation Plant’s Clarifier 4 Project. Ricardo Soto, of the engineer-ing department, estimated the cost of the project to be $1.5 million. There are currently three clarifiers at the site — one large and two small. an additional

large clarifier will allow for more reliable plant operations.

The district also will be accepting bids for a third reverse osmosis project for the San Vicente Water Reclamation Plant. The project is budgeted for $250,000. The design for the project has been completed; onsite improvements will be necessary before installation can begin.

Directors will meet next on Jan. 13. The public board meetings begin at 2 p.m. at Ramona Community Center, 434 aqua Ln. n

rMWD board continued from page 24

ramona rotary Club honored its Students of the Month for december. from left are ramona high School cheer advisor Melissa Brunner and student alex flynn; Mountain Valley academy teacher debbie ray and student Sarah foglio; Montecito high School student david Peralta; rotarian amber ramirez; Montecito high School teacher adam Vickery; and rotarian Bob Murray. Photo By Carol Kinney

Rotary Honors Students of the Month

long-time rMWd employees Jimmy Bartlett, left, and Gary Walker were presented with proclamations from Board President darrell Beck in recognition of their work with the district. Bartlett retires with 32 years and Walker with 37.

Photo By ruth lePPer

Members of ramona real estate association gather to donate toys to local VfW Post 3783 for its annual Christmas distribution to military children in the area. the realtors collected toys at their offices and at their open house extravaganza, held dec. 6.

Photo By Carol Kinney

Realtors Contribute to vFW Toy drive


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The Only Full Service Water Treatment Company in Ramona!

Residential • Commercial • Drinking Water • Water Softeners

Personal, Professional Service Since 1977Locally Owned and Operated

Lic. #415453 Lic. #415453

Classic Coolingand Heating

“Keeping North County Cool”

Call Us Today! 760-522-1884

www.classiccoolingandheating.comLicense # 973613Butch Rendek , HVAC Specialist

Ramona Resident

FREE ESTIMATES! Lowest Prices

in Town! Trip & Diagnostic

Fee Waived w/Service!

Discounts Available for Repairs, New Installation & Referrals.

Classic Coolingand Heating

“Keeping North County Cool”

Call Us Today! 760-522-1884

www.classiccoolingandheating.comLicense # 973613Butch Rendek , HVAC Specialist

Ramona Resident

FREE ESTIMATES! Lowest Prices

in Town! Trip & Diagnostic

Fee Waived w/Service!

Discounts Available for Repairs, New Installation & Referrals.

Shop at 209 10th Street (Hwy 78)760 -789-4950

www.economizersbesthardware.com

EPURCHASING SERVICE

conomizers

STORE HOURS: Mon-Fri: 7am-5pm

Sat: 8am-4pm Closed Sundays

Tools • Rope • Wire • Plumbing • StainPaint • Screws • Nuts • Bolts

FROM ROOF TO FLOOR AND SO MUCH MORE!

10% Military Discount10% Senior DiscountSee store for details.

FAMILY OWNED OPERATED

www.Patriotptg.com

Steve Travis858.414.6955

QUALITY SERVICE • TRAINED PROFESSIONALSInterior, Exterior, Specialty Coatings, Wood Replacement & More!

Your FULL SERVICE Local PAINTING CompanyCelebrating 25+ Years in the Construction Industry

LICENSE #670049 B -1 and C-33

760.788.8181

C. Dalton

FLOORINGFLOORINGHardwood • Laminate • Tile • Carpet • VinylFINANCINGAVAILABLE

Tues - Sat: 10am - 5pmLic# 659595

2405 Main St., #6 • 760-428-9600 GoGetFloors.com

CONTRACTOR LICENSE — California law requires that contractors taking jobs that total $500 or more (labor and/or materials) be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. Check contractors’ license status at www.cslb.ca.gov. Business and Professions Code section 7030.5 says that licensed contractors are required to include their license numbers in (a) all construction contracts; (b) subcontracts and calls for bid; and (c) all forms of advertising, as prescribed by the registrar of contractors.

Directory ServiceS

780 Main St., Ste. GRamona, CA

www.kitchenbarn.net

760-788-6900

Your Recipe for aBeautiful Kitchen!

Cabinetry Showroom• Kitchens • Bathrooms• Bedrooms • Closets

FREE in-home consultations

www.KitchenBarn.net

760.788.6900

Cabinetry Showroom• Kitchens• Bathrooms• Bedrooms• Closets

Lic.# 525878

780 Main Street, Ste. G, Ramona CA

Featuring

Your Recipe for a Beautiful Kitchen!

FREE in-home consultations

C A B I N E T R Y

Featuring:

Lic.# 525878

With Foresight Comes Peace of Mind

(808) [email protected] Habla Español

www.foresightbuildinginspection.com

Sean KinneyCertified Home Inspector

Your “789” Locksmith Local Owned . . . Local Operated

760-789-4189 850 Main St., Suite 107, Ramona

In Stock Selection of:• Keys • Locks

Emergency Lock Service Available • Safes and More!

Powerland equiPment, inc.27943 Valley Center Rd. • Valley Center, CA 92082Mobile: 760-497-0951 • Toll Free: [email protected]

Ken Sweitzer Sales Manager

Call Jerry

• Free Estimates• Water Heaters• Tankless Water Heaters

• Garbage Disposals• Water, Gas & Sewer Repairs• Faucets

• Toilets• Pressure Regulators• Leak Detection

Decks • Outdoor KitchensPatio Covers • Room Additions

Remodels • Bath Remodels

Rick KuchtaOwner /General Contractor

Lic. #762250

760789-5209

R.J. Kuchta Construction2 9 Y E A R S E X P E R I E N C E

“Where Quality Counts”

Lic. No 713606

Specializing in Residential GlassworkLET US TAKE CARE OF ALL YOUR GLASS & SCREENING NEEDS

Monday - Friday8 am - 5 pm

222 9th Street • Ramona 760 789-4320

Construction • Remodels Home Maintenance

Property Caretaking

Julian, CA 92036

[email protected] # B839759

760-310-9937Craig Heyer

“We Do It All”Over 30 Years

ExperienceFamily Owned

& OperatedBonded & Insured

Heyer Construction

Ace Hardware of Ramona760-440-3380 • 23642 San Vicente Road • Ramona

(At the corner of Gunn Stage Rd. & San Vicente Rd.)

Mon-Fri: 8 a.m.-7 p.m. • Sat: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. • Sun: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

DID YOU KNOW WE RENT:

Hardware

• Step Ladders• Saws• Sawzalls• Belt Sanders• Grinders

• Heat Guns• Hand Trucks• Battery Chargers• Drill Hammers • Extension Ladders

• Horse Clippers• Compressors• Paint Sprayers• Shop Vacs• Wheelbarrows

• Extension Cords • Post Hole Diggers• Pressure WashersAnd More!

Hurricane & Poway Fence CompanyServing San Diego for Over 25 YearsCommercial Projects 760-789-4142

Residential ProjectsRAMONA FENCE 760-788-1538

209 10th St. (Hwy. 78)Ramona

Shop Online – Ship-to-Store Freight-Freewww.economizersbesthardware.com

Wood • Chain Link • Dog Runs • CorralsFREE ESTIMATES

FREE Service Call with Repair

Senior, Single Parent & Military Discounts

Locally Owned & Operated760-788-8481

mrronsappliancerepair.com

License # 43249

Mr. Ron’sAppliance Repair

The Appliance Experts!

760-788-3816

Lic.# C53-846216 www.cbpools.net

NEW CONSTRUCTION• Remodels• Custom Designs• Consulting Designs• Owner/Builder Packages• All Inclusive Pricing

COMPLETE POOL & SPA SERVICE• Powerwashing Pool Decks,

Patios & Walkways• Vacation & Storm Cleanups• Tile Cleaning/Calcium Removal

EXPERIENCE • HONEST • RELIABLEFREE ESTIMATES • FREE ENERGY AUDITS ON YOUR POOL

Customer Service is Our #1 Goal!

• Irrigation • Rockscape• Tree Removal• Retaining Wall• Clean-up• Concrete Cuts

• Demolition• Concrete Jobs• Small and

Large Jobs• Maintenance

Service

760-315-5402Ca Lic-992366

Bonded and Insured

General Contractor

Home Repair Specialist

INSURED • LIC. #843164760-788-8185

MR. FIXIT


#1 Selling & Listing Office in Ramona!

Offering 3BR/2BA with 1524 esf. on 1.26 acres. Spacious living room with picture window. Mature fruit trees.

MLS#140048001

WEST END – $440,800-$445,800

Serenity surrounds you on 40 acres East of Ramona. 40’x50’ steel building, 30’x40’ shop with loft, vineyard, fruit trees.

MLS#140041683

2 ON 1 – $1,295,800

OAK TREE RANCH – $129,900

Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated

BRE License #00841062Se Habla Español760.789.2110 2130 MAIN STREET, RAMONA

Panoramic views, 4BR/3+BA, 3237 esf. Hardwood flooring, custom cabinetry, recessed lighting, infinity edge pool & spa. MLS#140057384

WEST END CUSTOM – $829,900 RANCH STYLE – $375,000 Within minutes of downtown Ramona, but still “country.” 3BR/2BA with 1448 esf.

on 1 acre with fenced backyard. MLS#140041601

Move-in ready. Offering 3BR/2BA beautiful Manufactured home. Complete fridge, washer, dryer. Spacious kitchen, formal dining,

large laundry room. MLS#140025080

Wynola – 4BR + 2 optional BR on 1.72 acres. Wood burning stove, Multi-family dwelling. Well + dual meters.

MLS#140052997

AMERICAN HOMESTEAD – $495,000

Ranch on 8.89 acres, view, arena + pipe corrals. Offering 4+BR/3BA w/3092 esf. Gourmet kitchen, loft above garage.

MLS#140042649

WEST END – $774,900

1.81 ACRES – $447,800

Search for Homes Online at RamonaLifestyle.com

Income producing + 600’ of Hwy frontage. 3BR/2BA, enclosed estimated 46’x15’ patio. city & well water.

MLS#140000080

Offering 3+BR/2+BA, 2296 esf. New carpet, new granite countertops, large center island. Private deck. Artificial turf

and Xeriscape. MLS#140049275

RV GARAGE – $474,900

VACANT LAND

V/L Hwy 78 (4) $139,800 8.20 acres

V/L Hwy 67 (44) $299,800 1.00 acres

25124 Oakana $173,800 9.34 acres

00 Sutherland Dam Road $1,200,000 240 acres

V/L Main Street $689,000 1.42 acres

V/L Keyser Road $165,000 5.03 acres

000 Campo Road $90,000 6.00 acres

V/L Hwy 94 $80,000 4.00 acres

V/L Skyway Drive $224,770 65.00 acres

L-13 Harper Drive $149,900 2.68 acres

FIVE BEDROOMS – $519,800 Located on 2.07 acres is this spacious home. Wood burning stove, dual AC, sunlit kitchen,

ceramic tile floors. MLS#140047882

Buying or Selling in Ramona! It’s Smart to Use a Local Realtor.

Call Me Today!Susan Royal

Cal BRE #01324095

760-522-2936

Merry Christmas

ramonahomejournaldec18 2014

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