I.B.

Local News - July 31, 2015 - 1

Vol. 2

No. 14

Highlighting our Community and Businesses for Imperial Beach & South Bay

Emerald Pena

IMPERIAL BEACH CELEBRATES THE SUN AND SEA FESTIVAL

RAIN OR SHINE

The third Sun & Sea Festival was held in Imperial Beach on Saturday, July 18th, celebrating the 59th Anniversary of Imperial Beach. Bringing in both residents and approximately
70,000 visitors, it was a family-friendly event that featured some of the best sandcastle
carving competition in the County. The event took place despite the unseasonable thunderstorm and rainfall. At one point, lifeguards had to clear the beaches and had participants and visitors taking cover for the spectacular thunderstorm. Crowds started early
with the 9 a.m. parade that had over 51 entries. Many visitors kept coming throughout the
day only dashing under cover briefly when the hardest rains fell.
Entertainment and sandcastle building kept the festival lively. Imperial Beachs largest
annual event didnt disappoint. Festivities included a street festival, (ContdPg3)

Jeannette Shambaugh

July 31, 2015

Captain of the Cays

K I C K O F F T O S U N A N D S E A F E S T I VA L

The Inaugural Mayors Swim and Paddle was held Friday, July 17th, officially
kicking of the festivities to the Sun and Sea Festival weekend. Over 100 swimmers and paddlers ran into the water at 9:00 am and dark skies to swim and paddle
around the pier with Mayor Dedina and friends. There were friends, family and
even kids were in the water making the swim. IB Lifeguards were in the water
and on the beach to assist participants. Robert Patton, Senator Ben Hueso, Patrick
Bilbray and former IB Mayor Brian Bilbray, Port Chair Dan Malcom even the
Mayors son Israel all joined in the inaugural swim and paddle. It was a huge
success and everyone is looking forward to next years event.
Immediately following the swim and paddle was the traditional Mayors Breakfast. There were over 400 people in attendance. The ceremony opened with the
(ContdPg3)

Jeannette Shambaugh

OPTIMIST CLUB HOLDS 27TH KIDS N KASTLES COMPETITION PARADE KICKS OFF SUN AND SEA FESTIVAL IN A BIG WAY
Every year while the pros are building their masterpieces, the castle builders of the
The Sun and Sea Festival kicks off every year with a parade the morning of the
future are competing in their own competition. For 27 years, the IB Optimist Club has
competition. This years parade was so big it was at full capacity! (ContdPg3)
held the Kids n Kastles Competition. Since 1988, they have been (ContdPg3)

Submitted Photo

5TH ANNUAL PUBLIC SAFETY CHILI COOK-OFF

The 5th Annual Public Safety Chili Cook-off kicked off with 72 guests tasting and
judging the three entries from Imperial Beach Public Safety. This year was the closest competition this program has ever seen since its conception five years ago. The
winner was Adam Wraight of the Imperial Beach Lifeguards. He created a yummy
chili highlighted by a secret sauce and crushed Fritos on top. Separated by just 5
points, Will Buchanon, of the Imperial Beach Fire Dept., took second place with his
entry. With just a few points less than the Fire Department was Sgt. Amavisca, of the
SD County Sheriff Imperial Beach StationVery Close! A presentation, by Sean
Putnam, provided insight into the Imperial Beach Lifeguards and beach safety for the
guests. It was a great opportunity for the public to meet their local public safety while
tasting and judging a chili cook-off.

Jeannette Shambaugh

IMPERIAL BEACH JUNIOR LIFEGUARDS CELEBRATE

2015 SESSION

This summer, the 2015 Junior Lifeguard (IBJG) Program celebrated its 20th year!
Ocean Lifeguard II, Robert Patton (one of the current IB Council Members) started
the Junior Lifeguard Program here in Imperial Beach 20 years ago. The IBJG Program was run out of the old lifeguard station off of Palm Avenue back then. Over the
years,the program has continued to grow successfully. The City of Imperial Beach
Junior Lifeguard Program is a comprehensive training program, designed to teach
(ContdPg5)

2 - I.B. Local News - July 31, 2015

IB LOCAL CALENDAR
AUGUST 2 0 1 5

CALVARY IB CHURCH
485 Imperial Beach Blvd, Imperial Beach, CA 91932
(619) 217-0717

CHURCHAT THE BEACH - IMPERIALBEACH

Pier Plaza every Sunday at 1:30pm
CHURCH OF CHRIST
640 10th Street * Imperial Beach, CA 91932
Phone: (619) 423-9450

CITY CHRISTIAN CENTER

1
Surf Dog Contest
Relay for Life @
MVHS 9 am

4 Car Lovers
Unite
National
Night Out

631 12th Street * Imperial Beach, CA 91932

Phone: (619) 271-6321

IMPERIAL BEACH UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

455 Palm Avenue Imperial Beach, CA 91932
(619) 424.5181

10

16

17

18

588 9th Street Imperial Beach, CA 91932

(619) 424-6452
990 Saturn Blvd., San Diego, CA 92154
(619) 423-0242

ST. JAMES LUTHERAN CHURCH

866 Imperial Beach Blvd Imperial Beach, CA 91932
(619) 424-6166
UPPER ROOM PENTECOSTAL CHURCH
631 12th Street Imperial Beach, CA 91932
(619) 395-1981

Letters to the
Editor

We invite Letters to the Editor for publication.

What do you think? We want to hear from you.
(619)779-7846 or iblnews@hotmail.com
Dear Editor,
I read with great interest Mr. Kravitzs article in the
July 10 edition of the I.B. Local News, Overlooked
Opportunities for Future South Bay Transit and want
to thank him for this insightful piece that touches both
on our history and our future.
Now, more than ever is the time come together as a
community and take a very serious look at our region
and the huge impact future development will have. One
of the biggest issues in the beautiful town of Coronado
is the tremendous amount of traffic congestion generated by the thousands of cars crossing the Coronado
Bridge on a daily basis. The continual traffic congestion they face affects their quality of life and we here in
Imperial Beach do not want to go down that road.

MILITARY
ORGANIZATIONS
AMERICAN LEGION POST 820

12

23

Camp Surf
Fundraiser

30

24

25

19

26

City Hall Closed

13

14
Farmers Market

20

21

15
Kiwanis
Fishing Derby

22
Jump Around
Sports Park
Fundraiser

Farmers Market
City Hall Closed

27

Chamber
Networking
Bkfst @ 7:15am

28

29

Farmers Market

31
Want Your Club, Organization or Event listed in our Calendar Section?
Contact us at: iblnews@hotmail.com or (619) 779-7846

We need to address this issue NOW before all this development becomes a reality and its too late.
Thank you Mr. Kravitz for getting this out there. Its
obvious that you did a lot of research on this and I, for
one, appreciate it very much.
Please let us know if and/or when you will be presenting
more details on this proposal. If it will be open to the
community, Id like to attend.
Margaret Williamson
Imperial Beach Resident
Dear Editor,
Appreciate your help with publicizing the unfortunate issue with the Schaumburgs! Great article, and I would
like to know if the story widens.
Just to let you know that yesterday I presented my small
claims case to the Superior Court in San Diego and got a
judgement against them.
I know this is a long process, and there is a long road to
get anything back. However, I felt it was necessary to
take this step.... I had to drive 6 hours each way, stay in
a hotel, park, and take a day off work to do this. (Just an
example of the hassle and cost that the Schaumburgs
have put on others.
Cheers, Simon

PUBLISHERS NOTES.......

With all of the well intended planning for Imperial Beachs mid-summer festival of Sun and Sea;
FLEET RESERVE ASSOCIATION (FRA)
the remnants of Hurricane Deloris also decided
to pay Imperial Beach a visit. It was a bit more
IMPERIAL BEACH BRANCH 289
659 Silver Strand Blvd., Imperial Beach, CA 91932 (619) 429-3485
like springtime rains with lightning to boot! While
the rain did keep crowd sizes down and may
VFW POST 5477 SILVER STRAND
have hurt vendors who paid top dollar for their
123 Palm Ave., Imperial Beach, CA 91932 (619) 424-6666
spaces, the celebrations that did continue were
more intimate and more locals than outsiders stayed. It would be nice if there was a
re-do day or a rain delay day.
Wed like to thank our staff members and
volunteers who covered the many events
and helped us distribute extra newspapers
over Sun and Sea Festival Weekend. Special thanks to The Captain of The Cays,
IB Local News is published by IB Local News Corp
whos drone videos of the Mayors Surf,
of 757 Emory St., P.O. Box 174
Swim Paddle around the Pier is magnifiImperial Beach, CA 91932
cent in its photography, editing and
www: IBLocalNews.org
soundtrack. Its a wonderful short film/
Opinions expressed within are not necessarily
video of the first annual swim around the
the views or opinions of management.
pier and its going viral now! We welcome
his contributions for aerial photography of
Publisher / General Manager: Ed Kravitz
future events as well. Thanks to Stacey
Editor / Office Manager: Stacey R. Long
Long, Emerald Pena, April Olthoff,
Graphics: Priscilla Villalpando * Stacey R. Long
Jeannette Shambaugh, Priscilla Villalpando,
Sales: Priscilla Villalpando * Libby Bustos
Jordan Jacobo, Libia Bustos, Juda Ganey,
Stacey R. Long * Ed Kravitz
Debbie Tolleson Mario Arce, our advertisPrinting:
Advance Web Offset Printing
ers and our readers for making us your
Distribution: Priscilla Villalpando * Libby Bustos * Juda Ganey
choice for local news. We encourage your
Debbie Tolleson * Karen Garman * Jordan Jacobo
letters, opinions and stories. Please adverWriters / Contributors: Jeannette Shambaugh * Ed Kravitz
tise with us and support your community
Jordan Jacobo * Stacey Long * Priscilla Villalpando * Libby Bustos
newspaper.
Photographers: Jeannette Shambaugh * Ed Kravitz
Jordan Jacobo * Libby Bustos * Priscilla Villalpando * Captain of the Cays A recent agenda item before City Council
seems to have stirred a little controversy
Please call our newsdesk at (619) 779-7846,
over due process. Agenda Item 4.1 is reor e-mail iblnews@hotmail.com
Re: Advertising, Story Coverage/Calendar items/Letters to the Editor ported in Council Watchdog but, has raised
concerns that citizens were excluded from
Send all Ad copies to: ib l n e w s @ h o t m a i l . c o m

1268 Palm Ave., Imperial Beach, CA 91932 (619) 423-7662

7
Farmers Market

IB Collabrative Mtg
@ 9am
City Council Mtg.
@6pm

SOUTH COAST CHURCH

ST. CHARLES CATHOLIC CHURCH

6
City Council Mtg.
@6pm

Optimist Club Mtg

@4:30pm
Fleet Reserve

OCEAN VIEW CHURCH

2460 Palm Avenue San Diego, CA 92154
(619) 424-7870

11

fair public input on some large development issues in

their neighborhoods. Even by approving this most recent measure in a re-vote, Council Members are the
first to admit that there are parking deficiencies in any
commercial development on Seacoast Drive because
the lot sizes are too small.
The Ports original contract with the City of Imperial
Beach clearly states that if Street End Improvements
and Parks create traffic and parking problems ; that
the Port is obligated to build PARKING STRUCTURES. While there may be adequate parking now
through some peoples interpretation, the problem is
the competition for the remaining free parking. New
business are not making their employees use public
transportation and more parking is needed for customers
and beach visitors as well. Unless the City and the Port
can provide adequate free parking at the beach, Imperial Beachs economic growth could be stifled. If visitors have to pay to park at the beach; why should the
revenue go to the Port instead of the City? Do we really want to give the Port a monopoly on visitor parking in Imperial Beach or make them provide it as part
of their agreement with the City? Its time to take a
look at their contract with the City and make sure they
are providing all the services they are supposed to provide. If the city cannot strike a deal to put parking in
the empty lot across the street from the hotel, then
maybe its time to eminent domain that lot and build a
parking structure anyway? The hotel and other
businesss on Seacoast should be overjoyed to have
overflow parking in the 800-900 block of Seacoast
Drive. The competition for the remaining free parking
spaces has become a problem for residents who live
near the beach and for other residents of Imperial Beach
who also want to go to the beach.
And how about that Breakwater Project at 9th and Palm?
Its really starting to feel like the heart of the business
community again since they pulled out the weeds from
the big dirt pile thats dusting neighborhoods around it
daily. The work crew that removed the weeds were
not Union Shop City Workers but day laborers with an
unlicensed equipment trailer. If Sudberry does not commence development there immediately, then the City
should probably think about Eminent Domain of the
property a second time and auction it off to a developer that will build promptly with his own money?
The property has not produced any sales tax or property tax revenue for seven years now. Forget the Pocket
Park and keep the Palm Avenue beach exit lanes open.
The longer that redevelopment is delayed ,the longer
the Prominade Shopping Center across the street has a
monopoly on retail space near 9th and Palm.
In our last issue we published a story about new murals on Bibbeys Shell Shop. We have been informed
by both the Art Kids and also Bibbeys that the young
artist whos work we showcased is no longer involved
with the Art Kids and that she took on the project of
painting Bibbeys Murals on her own and not as part
of the Art Kids group. We apologize for the error.
We are still looking for sponsors for the Youth Sports
Page. If you know a business that would like credit
for helping print a regular youth sports page in our
newspaper, please pass it on. If you have a beef that
you feel is not being resolved; let us know. We want to
engage the community and help give local citizens a
bigger voice in Civic Affairs. Send your comments and
letters to: <iblnews@hotmail.com>

I.B. Local News - July 31, 2015 - 3

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Joe Lee Hutchins

Aug 29, 1929 July 22, 2015
Joe Hutchins passed away July 22nd. Funeral Services were
held Wednesday, July 29th at Ocean View Baptist Church.
A private interment was held at Miramar National Cemetery.
He is survived and treasured by his loving wife of 62 years,
Patricia Ann Hutchins; his daughters Karen, Cheryl and
grandchildren Joel, Jake and Allison; as well as many other
cherished family members and friends.
Joe Lee Hutchins was a decorated Navy SEAL who served
the nation for 23 years stationed in Coronado. He served in
combat in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Upon retiring from the military in 1969, he embarked on a successful
Real Estate career; founding Hutchins Realty. He also
coached Little League, was a lifetime member of the Chamber of Commerce and served as a Director and Officer of
the South Bay Board of Realtors and was also active in the
Kiwanis Club. His faith in Christ; devotion to family, friends
and community and duty to his country were his life; his
mantra and purpose. He accepted each of these callings
with pride and honor. He is remembered for his spirit of
generosity and kindness. Joe enjoyed almost anything outdoors, including gardening and landscaping.
Please feel free to share your memories at: www.fb.com/
JoeLeeHutchins. Memorials in his name can be made to the
Salvation Army or Boys and Girls Club of Imperial Beach.
Sun & Sea - Contd from Front Pg)
farmers market and an international food fair.
The crowd enjoyed live music from the Bayou
Brothers Band, The Deepjoint, Subsurfer, and
The Teagan Tyler Band playing at the Port wood
Pier Plaza stage. Many of the sculptures said
the rain didnt affect the quality of the sand
carving at all It was just a different experience
and it added a different kind of excitement to
the competition. They are all so used to carving in the sunshine and heat and the castles
were more than strong enough to withstand
the rain fall, so as the carvers said The show
must go on! and it did. Master Builder Kirk
Fitzpatrick added his flare to the event with his
Display Castle at the foot of the Pier. It was a
replica of the pier with the machinery of the
port shipyard tools. It also featured the artwork of logo winner Ily Alfred and the Unified
Port of San Diego logo. Down the way at
Dunes Park at the Kids Zone, Nathans Famous
Hot Dogs provided games, prizes, a super-size
slide, face painting and a variety of activities
for kids to enjoy. The Fern Street Circus, South
Bay YMCA Gym, Pan Am Tae Kwon Do, World
Gym Eastlake Kids Academy and former
American Idol contestant 17 year old Trevor
Douglas took the stage throughout the day and
entertained the crowd. The big winners of the
day were the crowd favorite IB Posse with
their very elaborate and detailed Myths and Legends Sculpture. It was no easy win from the
Star Wars themed castle to the Happy Hippos
to the Water Conservation Frog the competition was fierce. The complete results are as
follows:

MASTERS A - 10 person teams Professional level

First Place IB Posse $5,000
Name of sculpture: Myths and Legends
Second Place Sand Squirrels $2,500
Name of sculpture: Hippy Hippos
Third Place Arch-I-Sand- $1,000
Name of sculpture: Star Wars Theme
MASTERS B 3 person teams professional level
First Place: Sandcastle Man and Sons: $2500
Name of sculpture: Sandcastle theme
Second Place: Team SandStorm: $1,000
Name of sculpture: Roman Gladiator theme
Third Place: The Sand Architects: $500
Name of sculpture: Water Conservation theme
OPEN AMATEURS
First Place: Coastal Carvers: $500
Name of sculpture: Minions theme
Second Place: Sculptintures: $250
Name of sculpture: Minions Beach Resort
Third Place: Team Balala: $100

(Swim & Paddle - Contd from Front Pg)

MVHS Color Guard Ceremony followed by the IBJGs leading the pledge of allegiance. Awards were
given to Leah Goodwin and Shirley Nakawatase for their hard work and dedication to bringing the
Sun and Sea Festival back to Imperial Beach. The Naval Special Warfare Operation presented a plaque
to the City of Imperial Beach for the support of the new campus. Longtime swimming coach Sue
Czerwiec also received an award for her service to the students at MVHS. A very tasty and beautiful
breakfast was served to attendees by the San Diego Job Corp.
The night ended with the annual Sandcastle Ball hosted at the Boys & Girls Club. Imperial Beach
residents along with everyone that worked so hard in making all of the events possible, boogied the
night away while DJ Daniel Gee and DJ Cdiego played music late into the night. Pat Hutchins and
Jorge Gomez were named the King and Queen of the ball. It was a night that will not soon be
forgotten. Thank you to all of the event sponsors and volunteers for making it truly a magical night. I
cant wait to see everyone next year at the Sandcastle Ball! - Jeannette Shambaugh

Joan Marie Tiler Cross

7/29/1942 - 7/27/2015
Loving mother of Janet Johnson and Jack Cross
She was a loved grandmother.

(Parade - Contd from Front Pg)

Over 51 participants entered the parade with floats to display their
business or cause. The parade started at 7 am with the pancake
breakfast at the Portwood Pier Plaza. Then at 9 am, participants lined
up and took to the streets going up Imperial Beach Blvd., down Seacoast and finishing up on Palm Ave. Residents and visitors lined the
streets to enjoy the festivities.
This years parade line up was: North Island Credit Union, Space and
Naval Warfare Systems Command Honor Guard, IB City Council,
Girl Scout Troop 5447, Cub Scout Pack 866, Senator Ben Hueso &
Family, SBUSD Trustees & Supervisors, SBUSD Marching Band and
Music Club, SBUSD Education Foundation, IB Port Commissioner
Dan Malcom, SD County Supervisor Greg Cox, Council For the Youth
Empowerment Pirate Float and Princesses of South Bay, South Bay
Cruisers Car Club Inc., Griffin Family, IB Beautiful, IB Womens
Club, Potters House Church, YMCA, IB Little League, IB Stroller
Strides, MVHS Jr ROTC, South Bay Ambassador Program, Kiwanis
Club, Bryan Brilhart & Family, Miss CA Pageant Royal Court, Eastlake
Church, Imperial Beach JR Lifeguards, United Martial Arts Family
Center, IB Preschool, IB Girls Softball, Fern Street Circus, MVHS
70s Alumni, Rock Star Gym, IB Chamber of Commerce, Pacific
Realty, K-Pasta, United Methodist Church, Amber Jade Mobile Craft
Class, IB Yoga, Beachmaster Unit One Naval Base Coronado and the
39th District IB Fire Department. The parade was full of fun and
excitement for everyone. From the cool cars, to all of the local favorites and the citys treasured businesses and friends, the parade was
jam packed full of fun. With such a successful and big parade this
year, we have to take a second to thank all of those who contributed
to the cause. The parade committee worked hard for weeks to gather
participants, coordinate the divisions and man the parade. This years
committee members were Diane Rose, Tessa Lero, Lorie Bragg, Angel Lopez, Dawn Kelly, Daniel Kelly, David Rose, Donna Alsum and
Hazel Bailey. Last but not least, we cannot forget the volunteers who
manned the streets through the light rain and showers and who helped
keep the parade flowing: Rabia Phillips, Richard Mowry, Greg & Shannon Hughes, Frank Martinez, Dewey Corklin, Lorie Bragg, Gary
Brown and Mark West. Thank you to all who participated, helped and
were involved. It truly was a spectacular way to start the day of the
Sun and Sea Festival. - Jeannette Shambaugh
(Kids n Castles - Contd from Front Pg)
inspiring kids to build and create sandcastles from an early age. This
year, 17 teams from all over the world battled it out, through the rain
and thunder, for an hour and a half to win the title of sandcastle
champion. There were teams from as far as Green Bay, Chicago,
Arizona; all the way to Germany. Teams are made up of kids from 512 years old. Parents (coaches) are on the sideline cheering teams on
and of course lugging buckets of water to the castles. The kids are in
it completely alone. This years big winners were team IB Buildin
(Maximus & Marcus Shambaugh). The brothers won 1st place for
the second year in a row in the Creatures of the Sea division with an
enormous sea turtle accented with sanddollars. In a close 2nd was
Team Tidal Waves (Alex & Jaqueline) with an amazing dolphin jumping out of the water and in 3rd place was team Starry Fish with a
beautiful starfish. In the Best Sculpture Castle Team Sandy Eggos
(Phen, Uclen, Brandon and Sage) took 1st place with their very large
and elaborate sculpture called Tiki. In 2nd The Packer Backers
(Patrick and Cindy) with their very creative cruise ship and in 3rd
was team Cool Castles (Jesus, Sydney and Annica) with their sculpture of Atlantis. Imperial Beach and South Bay businesses were very
generous with donations and thanks to all of the events sponsors the
kids won medals, shirts and over $100.00 in prizes. The Optimist
Club also held a raffle so everyone who participated was a winner.
- Jeannette Shambaugh

4 - I.B. Local News - July 31, 2015

Jeannette Shambaugh
Local and crowd favorite won 1st Place in the Master Class Division. They were the
defending champions and did not disappoint with their "Myths and Legends" castle.

Jeannette Shambaugh
Master Builder Kirk Fitzpatrick spent 2 full days building this years display castle.
It was a replica of the IB Pier with the machinery of the shipyard tools.

I.B. Local News - July 31, 2015 - 5

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(Jr. Lifeguard - Contd from Front Pg)

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youth in the community ages 9-17 leadership, selfconfidence, and respect for the ocean environment.
IBJGs learn leadership skills, basic life-saving skills,
physical fitness, water safety, and ocean awareness. It is s 5 week program and they are involved
in a variety of activities including competitions,
swimming, surfing, body boarding, and beach
games. Guest speakers from different specialties
organize presentations that pertain to the ocean and
its environment. IBJGs were also introduced to the
profession of lifeguarding through exposure to standard lifeguard equipment and safety information presented by the staff. The JG instructors are all experienced and certified ocean lifeguards.
As lifeguards, they are required to maintain a certain level of physical fitness and complete 24 hours
of basic life support training every year. The 2015
IBJG instructors were Sean Putnam, Jim Sullivan,
Eian Maurice, Melanie Martinez-Goodman, Helen
Sylvia, Michelle McDonald, Allen Gonzalez, Zach
Malcolm, and Sean Landry. Many of them have
been through the IBJG Program themselves as kids
and come back year after year to teach the program to the up and coming lifeguards of our city.
With any great program, there are businesses that
contribute to the IBJGs and with great appreciation
the Junior Lifeguard instructors would like to Th
ank the following businesses for their support and
donations to the IBJG banquet: Surf Hut, Katys
Caf, Mike G Photography, K-Pasta, Par Amour,
Good Times Barber, T-N-T Surf Shop, Babycakes
Cupcakes, Beachside Fro-Yo, Cow-A-Bunga,
Coronado Brewing Company, Subway, Wine and,
Palette, Seaside Candy Shop, Filippis Pizza and El
Tapatio. Thank you for all of the items donated to
the IBJG banquet, which is one of the highlights of
the kids in the program and they look forward to it
every year. Without you, an event like this would
not be possible.
This year, the Junior Lifeguard Program participated in the 2015 California State Games Junior
Lifeguard Competition held in Coronado. There
were Junior Lifeguard agencies that participated
from all over San Diego.
The day was filled with competition events such as
the popular beach flags, paddle relays, swim and
run relays, and of course a lifeguard rescue relay.
The Junior Lifeguards from Imperial Beach did an
amazing job at the competition bringing home some
hardware (medals) that were won while displaying strong physical fitness, ocean skills, and great
sportsmanship! The banquet was held at Portwood
Pier Plaza where IBJGs had lunch with friends,
family and also a raffle, finishing up the 2015 IBJG
session with the awards ceremony.
Awards given are as follows: A DIVISION: Most

Inspirational- Sammy Sepulveda, Waterman Award- Julian

Winnie, Water Woman- Shaylin Weygandt, Most Improved
- Sarah Meza B Division: Most Inspirational- Emily
Maurice, Most Improved- Isabella Winnie, Waterman- Keoni
Tapia, Water Woman- Iliana Lopez, Most Valuable PlayerBrianna Ayala C DIVISION: Most Improved - Marley
Mazzeo, Riley McKay, Most Valuable Player- Samantha
lange, Noah Wahamaki, Most Inspirational- Kevin Stucki,
WaterWoman- Emma Tubbs, Waterman-Luke Wilson. Good
job to all of the kids who participated this year; it is no easy
task. If you would like more information about joining IBJG
for the 2016 session or to make a donation, please visit
www.ibjuniorguards.com - Jeannette Shambaugh

Seashells

6 - I.B. Local News - July 31, 2015

I.B. Local News - July 31, 2015 - 7

8 - I.B. Local News - July 31, 2015

Vince Farnsworth

IMPERIAL BEACH IS GOING AFTER IT EYESORES

Mayor Serge Dedina said the City is starting to be proactive about abandoned buildings, vacant lots and
other neglected locations. The City Council is very positive about the new approach, Dedina said, while
City Manager Andy Hall said they are starting to focus more and more on buildings that clearly dont
exemplify the type of structures we want to see in the community.
Buildings like the boarded-up house at 495 Palm Avenue have been under scrutiny attention because it is
in obvious and serious need of rehabilitation or replacement, Dedina said, adding its been in that state
for at least 12 years.
But there are bigger players involved. AT&T has the most dilapidated building in IB, Dedina said,
referring to an empty, brick building at Palm and 13th St. Dedina said he is working with the company to
get something like a mural on the large plain sides of the structure.
Working with the owners is sometimes the only way. Hall said the city is sometimes powerless to do
anything about the problem. There have been instances where property owners do the bare minimum to
avoid more aggressive action from the City, he said via email.
He said the City has successfully taken action in the recent past, citing the demolition of the old El Camino
Motel and an apartment complex near the intersection of Imperial Beach Blvd. and Seacoast Drive. But he
added, Imperial Beach is not anywhere near as aggressive in enforcing aesthetic regulations as many
communities in the San Diego County, especially beach communities.
Hall said that as the economy continues to improve, many of these efforts are property owner driven
and voluntary. It is important that as these efforts occur, that the City support the property owners.
That seems to be whats happening at that house at 495 Palm. After years of sitting vacant, it is suddenly
for sale.
Jamie Tuckey, the listing agent for property, said its only been on the market for a month and that the
buyer will almost certainly tear down the building. The value is in the land and not in the building, which
he described as a $5000 demolition project.
Tuckey said Imperial Beachs recent building boom has suddenly made properties like that one more
attractive. IB is breaking a lot of ground recently, Tuckey said, referring to things like Marriots fancy
new Pier South Resort on Seacoast Drive. The fact that people are putting money into IB real estate is
why the owner is selling.
He said the land is priced at $2 million and that zoning would allow for eight condo or townhomes there.
Tuckey could not answer why the property had sat vacant for so long but said its an opportunity to
undo the eyesore. Unsightly stretches of chain link fences are another target for the revitalization. Weve
already gotten rid of two of them, Dedina said, including the new decorative Pond 20 fence at the
entrance to Imperial Beach on Palm Ave. Dedina mentioned that the
City hopes to work with public arts organization on similar projects in
the future. - Vince Farnsworth

ECLECTIC O FFERINGS
There was no shortage of culinary options at this years Sun & Sea
Festival. The event featured a Farmers Market with fresh produce
from local growers, as well as an International Food Fair which
offered both traditional and exotic cuisine.
From local favorites like street tacos, thin crust pizza and garlic
fries, to more worldly selections such as Chinese Barbecue and
exotic seafood dishes from around the globe. One stand offered
patrons home-brewed Root Beer Floats of various flavors. The
fair also featured healthy options in the form of elaborately mixed,
Mexican-stlye fruit dishes and organic smoothies.
Aside from food, festival goers also got a chance to take home
unique souvenirs, as local vendors came out to display their wares
to the public. Everything from beach accessories and apparel to a
set of one-of-a-kind drinking glasses made from old beer bottles.
Sarras Petals, a boutique fashion-line operated by Imperial Beach
local Sarra Smith, offered unique, exotic-looking apparel for ladies.
Perhaps the highlight of the event was Nathans Hot Dog Stand,
which, aside from providing classic American fare, also set up a
Kidz Zone in Dunes Park. The family-friendly exhibit featured a
series of carnival games such as Ski Ball and basketball hoops, as
well as an animatronic fortune teller and a giant inflatable slide.
- Jordan Jacobo

Priscilla Villalpando

LOCAL NAVYARTIST SHINES AT

ALL BLACK ART SHOW
JR Mac specializes in logisistics in the United States Navy. When
hes not serving his country, he spends what little time he has providing beautiful artwork for others to enjoy.
Thursday night at Barrels, JR Mac glided respectfully amongst his admirers, thankfully embracing company, while recollections of times
spent in the orient lovingly flowed through the
artwork on display. Aside from his artwork seen
at the exhibit, he also dabbles in video production and direction of his own short films.
Courage, warmth, and amity radiate from JRs
work and truly great things can be expexted from
this local artist. - Jimmy Schmitz

everybody is reading IB Local News!

I.B. Local News - July 31, 2015 - 9

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10 - I.B. Local News - July 31, 2015

CASTILLO AND BAND SOON TO PLAYAT

MAR VISTA HIGH SCHOOL

Castillo & Boys (Bilingual positive rock en Espaol)_Lead singer/

rhythm-Oscar Castillo,Lead guitarist-Aldo Nieto,DrummerRicardo Armenta will be performing at Mar Vista High on Aug
1st, 6pm sharp.
These guys will be sharing Originals and blowing up Covers. If
you miss this Event, they are soon to play in Chula Vista at The
Pride Festival off of J st.(Sept.12th).These guys have steady
gigs but are up for grabs (Weddings/Private parties). To view
just their sound go to: Reverbnation.com/Castillorock or reach
them by email-(chapacastillo619@gmail.com)
Like most bands, they have a mottopromotion promotion promotion. Castillos favorite quote Get the song right good luck
boys, on to the next gig.
Thanks for reading and as alwaysSupport your local musicians/
artists. - Entertainment Writer/Reporter -Elaine Haggin

P O N D 2 0 AC T IO N
Today I am extremely proud of our South County EDC Members. At the July Annual meeting South County EDC members
were asked to vote on action regarding Pond 20, an abandoned
salt flat that borders the cities of Imperial Beach and San Diego on
Palm Avenue. The Port was considering putting this site into a
mitigation bank despite previous promises of the site being saved
for economic development efforts. The Port heard the issue yesterday and I wanted to share the outcome with you and also take
this opportunity to thank those who have dedicated a lot of time
toward this effort.
SCEDC had requested that the Port determine which portions of
the site were developable and move aggressively to get those developed. Additionally, SCEDC requested net funds derived from
the sale of land for mitigation purposes be placed in a separate
fund and dedicated to economic development efforts in Imperial
Beach and the City of San Diegos portion of the Palm Avenue
area.
At yesterdays hearing the Port recognized that there are 2 small
sites that are available for development, and requested the majority of Pond 20 be placed into a mitigation bank. Additionally, as
part of the same motion made by Commissioner Malcom and
seconded by Commissioner Nelson, the Port unanimously agreed
to set aside net funds from the mitigation bank and direct those
funds toward economic development efforts in Imperial Beach
and District 8 in San Diego. They also asked staff to return with
a policy that directed the Port on use of those funds. Most amazing was to hear South County EDC members AND environmental
agencies agree funds should be set aside for economic development efforts.
SCEDC members have worked long and hard on Pond 20. I would
be remiss if I did not acknowledge Jim Janney and Doug Pau
who have lead the charge over the last 4 years for SCEDC. And
Port Commissioner Maclom has worked on Pond 20 since he
was a Councilmember in the late 90s.
Yesterday our members did a fantastic job of conveying what the
SCEDC Board wanted and our thanks go out to them. Those
members included: Monica Montano, Xema Jacobson, Miguel
Aguirre, Doug Kerner, Doug Paul, Jim Janney, Tony McCune,
Clarissa Falcon, Marcela Escobar-Eck. Marcela also communicated SCEDCs position to the Wildlife Advisory Board where she
serves as the SCEDC representative. And our partners at the San
Diego Regional EDC sent over Shey who did an equally great job
of testifying in support of our requested action. A huge thank you
to all who stressed the importance of BALANCE in a community
and that balance must include economic development. You were
heard yesterday. You made a difference yesterday. And, thank
you for making a better tomorrow. - Cindy Gompper-Graves
President & CEO, South County Economic Development Council

Council Watchdog is only a brief

Council Watchdog is only a syn- COUNCIL
synopsis of what took place at the
opsis of events that took place at
City Council Meeting in Impethe 7-15-15 City Council. It rep- WATCH
rial Beach. If you are interested
DOG.........
resents what we consider highin any of these subjects we invite
lights of a very lengthy City Counyou to view the entire video or
cil Meeting but, is not complete. JULY 15, 2015
read the Council Minutes for
If you are interested in any of
more details. Both can be viewed
these items..especially item #
on the Citys website.
4.1, it would be worthwhile to
take the time and watch the video yourself to form your own opinions of the deliberative process. Video
link is on the Citys website under Agenda. This one will be moving soon to the Past Agenda section.
6:PM Meeting Starts; Mayor Dedina Absent. Mayor Pro Tem Bilbray presiding.
Awards presented to local scouts
Reports: Patton and Spriggs went to League of California Cities in Monterrey and Patton is now on a first
name basis with Ronald McDonald. Patton was the City Official present at the event.
Spriggs mentioned Leadership workshops and learning more about the City Attorney relationship and
what really goes on behind the scenes. Spriggs also mentioned new tools for Tax Increment Financing
which ended when Redevelopment Agencies were outlawed. Also mentioned was the Port Meeting regarding the disposition of Pond 20. Reminder August 1st is Surf Dog Competition and the Relay for Life.
Introduction of Steve Dush from Gainsville, Florida who will be taking over as Community Development
Director since Greg Wades departure.
Captain Bill Zedbeck spoke on behalf of the Optimists and Chris Brown spoke against allowing tents in
future events from being erected.
Consent Agenda (strike 2.8) others pass, Dedina Absent
All consent items begin with #2 are not discussed.just voted on.
2.1 Minutes Ratified
2.2 Warrant Register for $1,479.01
2.3 Treasurers Report
2.4 Stipends to returning lifeguards
2.5 Award Contract to revamp access control system to Dempsey Holder Building
2.6 Extension of Health Benefits with SEIU
2.7 Renew Franchise Agreement with Cal American Water for 25 years
2.9 M.O.U. with local firefighters association IBFA
5.4 was moved up.
5.4 UPDATE Of Recreation/Sports Park Programs
This item was presented by Ed Vea; assistant to the City Manager and City Council. Vea did a short
synopsis and introduced Aaron Ruiz from the Boys and Girls Club, Matt McCoy representing the Girls
Softball League and Don Spicer representing the Imperial Beach Little League. All three persons gave
glowing accounts of growing participation and volunteer efforts and showed that under the new management adopted since the proposed YMCA deal fell through, the Sports Park, Recreation Center and various
sports activities have flourished and expanded and are now serving much larger numbers of citizens than
ever before! The new leadership plan is working remarkably well and should get approval for another
two years with no objections. This is indeed a story with a happy ending considering where the Sports
Park Controversy was two years ago. Citizen Volunteers who continue to participate should be given
credit for not only saving the Sports Park from demise but, also for making it a better place that serves
an even larger segment of the community today.
4.1 951 Seacoast Drive - Re-Do Hearing
It was just last June when the Lighthouse Condo project; proposed for 951 Seacoast sailed through the
last hurdles to get approval. Councilmembers were congratulating each other back last June 3rd on what
a good collaborative process had produced and how the agreement reached satisfied everyone. That was
until the last agenda was released and it came to our attention that the previous vote for the project was
being set aside because the immediate neighbors were never noticed of the public meetings that would
affect adjacent properties and those in close proximity! Illegal Process nobody is taking blame for! They
were directed to hold the public hearing over again and take in all the information this time; not allowing
the previous decision to influence their decision on the re-do vote.
Mayor Dedina was absent and Mayor Pro Tem Bilbray started the item off by limiting speakers time to
two minutes; much to the displeasure of neighbors who had been previously been denied an opportunity
to give input. Several of them complained that the time allowed was insufficient to make their case and it
was their feeling or belief that the item was a done deal regardless of what they might say in two minutes.
One speaker who got additional time complained that 4 minutes was not enough time! This is the rest of
our Life were talking about here!
When told by Bilbray his time was up, the speaker responded; No Its Not! Bilbray called a hasty recess
and retreated into chambers; where Its uncertain whether or not there was any conversation or deliberation before the 4 councilmembers returned to the Dias. If any conversation on the matter before Council
was made in recess it would constitute a violation of the Brown Act. Although there were some conciliatory comments by Spriggs and Bragg ; the project passed 3-1 with Dedina absent and Patton voting
No; based on the many variances to height, setbacks, parking allowances etc. being in conflict with the
General Plan. Some excellent points were made in the 11th hour and one speaker begged for a continuance so all the information could be heard and evaluated objectively. He said it was Councils job to
balance the private interests with the publics interests and he felt that was not being done. He further
accused two members of Council who belong to the Seacoasters Group to abstain because of potential
conflicts of interest.
Spriggs commented that it will be difficult to strike a balance between what is acceptable development
and what is not. He did admit that this project and others are deficient in their commercial parking element
and that the commercial parking issue on Seacoast needs to be resolved in order for economic development to be viable there. Otherwise it will just negatively impact the neighborhood as even more people
circle the block searching for free parking. It may well be time for the Port to not only build those parking
structures but, provide that parking free of charge. It is uncertain whether the neighbors who feel denied
due process will litigate the matter further.
Council returns to the dias after recess on Agenda Item 4.1.
Did they discuss the item in Chambers in violation of the Brown Act? Did they really take all the evidence
into consideration as t he agenda
item demanded? Was that even
possible with two minute
speaker time slots?
5.1 and 5.2 Eagle Scout Projects
by Oliver Erbes and Fred Smyth
presented by Public Works Director Hank Levine.
5.3 Resolution to recommend
the County of San Diego name
the Friends of the Library Book
Store after historian Freda Elliott
Adams. Several Speakers and
Lori Bragg commented.
5.5 Alley Improvement Project
Awarded

I.B. Local News - July 31, 2015 - 11

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12 - I.B. Local News - July 31, 2015