To assist local fire victims recover, the RSF Review has teamed with the Rancho Santa Fe Foundation and several other community organizations, including Kids Korps, RSF School, RSF Community Center, the Village Church, RSF Rotary Club, RSF Association and NeighborHelp. This effort is being coordinated through the RSF Foundation, which has several options in place for donors who wish to provide funding for effective, focused assistance to the victims. This drive is designed to reduce duplication of effort, make the most efficient use of resources, and provide immediate assistance to those most in need.
To find out how you can help or make donations, visit www.rsffoundation.org.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Friday, October 26, 2007
Focusing on the Heart of the Community
The Rancho Santa Fe Community Center is deeply saddened by the destruction and damage of homes in the Rancho Santa Fe community this past week due to the Witch Creek Fire. We wish to extend our condolences to our many friends, neighbors, supporters and members who have lost everything.
In response to this sad development in our community, the Rancho Santa Fe Community Center is assisting relief services headed up by the RSF Foundation and other local organizations, including the RSF Presbyterian Village Church. In addition, the Community Center is also coordinating a "Child to Child" drive to assist the children of our community whose homes have been destroyed. (All of the most current information is available on our website at
The Community Center is still closed as of Friday, October 26. Currently, members of the staff are performing a thorough cleaning that meets state standards in order to mitigate the environmental impact of ash and smoke. This is an important step in providing an environmentally safe place for the children to return to as of Monday, October 29.
As of Friday, October 26 at 2 pm, the Rancho Santa Fe School District is tentatively planning to open on Monday. The Solana Beach School District had yet not decided whether they were resuming classes on Monday.
If for some reason, the schools are not open on Monday, the Community Center will be offering child care from 9 am to 5 pm, which will be FREE OF CHARGE to our members. If the schools resume their normal scheduling, the Center will begin providing our planned Fall Session II classes as scheduled on Monday, October 29. Members can continue to sign up for classes throughout the first week of the session, and no programs will be cancelled during this time. Please note that all outdoor activities in the next few weeks will be curtailed in response to air quality standards.
Also the Community Center will be offering FREE after-school programs for our members who are victims of the fire in Rancho Santa Fe. Please contact Lori Brockett, our Executive Director, at 756-2461 or by email at lbrockett@rsfcc.org for information on receiving this service. In order for the Center to provide adequate staffing to provide our members with these importance services, please contact the Center at 858-756-2461.
The Rancho Santa Fe Community Center is also assisting the RSF Foundation in its mission to supply monetary donations and relief services to victims of the fire. The Center along with such community organizations such as the RSF Review, Kids Korps, the RSF School and the Village Church are coordinating their efforts through the RSF Foundation. Please go to the RSF Foundation website at www.rsffoundation.org for more information on the services that are being provided and how you can help.
In addition, at the bequest of one of our members, Lori Cooper, the Rancho Santa Fe Community Center will be coordinating a "Child to Child" Drive. "My heart went to the children that do not understand what is happening," Lori Cooper said in an email she sent this week. "I'd like to start a 'Child to Child' drive for our families in RSF that have lost their homes or are displaced at this time."
"The drive will collect toys and/or other items of comfort to help the children through the immediate crisis. The idea is to have our children give of themselves, by choosing one of their own toys or items they believe would be special to a child going through this crisis. These items will then be given to their friends and neighbors with an attached note written by our children. If they could do this when they return home we will put together items in age groups and distribute to the community." The Rancho Santa Fe Community Center will be the drop off point for this "Child to Child" Drive, beginning on Monday, October 29. An end date for the drive will be announced later.
The Rancho Santa Fe Community Center is committed to providing whatever aid and assistance we can for our friends and neighbors in this community during this time of crisis. The outside bulletin board of the RSF Community Center will be made available for the community to post information as it relates to the fire relief and information. Please stop by the Community Center office at 5970 La Sendita with notices or information you wish to post.
In response to this sad development in our community, the Rancho Santa Fe Community Center is assisting relief services headed up by the RSF Foundation and other local organizations, including the RSF Presbyterian Village Church. In addition, the Community Center is also coordinating a "Child to Child" drive to assist the children of our community whose homes have been destroyed. (All of the most current information is available on our website at
The Community Center is still closed as of Friday, October 26. Currently, members of the staff are performing a thorough cleaning that meets state standards in order to mitigate the environmental impact of ash and smoke. This is an important step in providing an environmentally safe place for the children to return to as of Monday, October 29.
As of Friday, October 26 at 2 pm, the Rancho Santa Fe School District is tentatively planning to open on Monday. The Solana Beach School District had yet not decided whether they were resuming classes on Monday.
If for some reason, the schools are not open on Monday, the Community Center will be offering child care from 9 am to 5 pm, which will be FREE OF CHARGE to our members. If the schools resume their normal scheduling, the Center will begin providing our planned Fall Session II classes as scheduled on Monday, October 29. Members can continue to sign up for classes throughout the first week of the session, and no programs will be cancelled during this time. Please note that all outdoor activities in the next few weeks will be curtailed in response to air quality standards.
Also the Community Center will be offering FREE after-school programs for our members who are victims of the fire in Rancho Santa Fe. Please contact Lori Brockett, our Executive Director, at 756-2461 or by email at lbrockett@rsfcc.or
The Rancho Santa Fe Community Center is also assisting the RSF Foundation in its mission to supply monetary donations and relief services to victims of the fire. The Center along with such community organizations such as the RSF Review, Kids Korps, the RSF School and the Village Church are coordinating their efforts through the RSF Foundation. Please go to the RSF Foundation website at www.rsffoundation.org for more information on the services that are being provided and how you can help.
In addition, at the bequest of one of our members, Lori Cooper, the Rancho Santa Fe Community Center will be coordinating a "Child to Child" Drive. "My heart went to the children that do not understand what is happening," Lori Cooper said in an email she sent this week. "I'd like to start a 'Child to Child' drive for our families in RSF that have lost their homes or are displaced at this time."
"The drive will collect toys and/or other items of comfort to help the children through the immediate crisis. The idea is to have our children give of themselves, by choosing one of their own toys or items they believe would be special to a child going through this crisis. These items will then be given to their friends and neighbors with an attached note written by our children. If they could do this when they return home we will put together items in age groups and distribute to the community." The Rancho Santa Fe Community Center will be the drop off point for this "Child to Child" Drive, beginning on Monday, October 29. An end date for the drive will be announced later.
The Rancho Santa Fe Community Center is committed to providing whatever aid and assistance we can for our friends and neighbors in this community during this time of crisis. The outside bulletin board of the RSF Community Center will be made available for the community to post information as it relates to the fire relief and information. Please stop by the Community Center office at 5970 La Sendita with notices or information you wish to post.
Boil Water Order issued for Del Dios Mutual Water Company
A Boil Water Order has been issued for the community of Del Dios, affecting approximately 151 customers.
Due to the fires, this public water system lost pressure in the water distribution system. The Boil Water Order will remain in effect until the distribution system has been disinfected and samples confirm the absence of bacteria in the water supply.
For more information on the Boil Water Order, please contact Darrell Connelly, at (760) 745-7869.
Due to the fires, this public water system lost pressure in the water distribution system. The Boil Water Order will remain in effect until the distribution system has been disinfected and samples confirm the absence of bacteria in the water supply.
For more information on the Boil Water Order, please contact Darrell Connelly, at (760) 745-7869.
Del Mar Fairgrounds becomes Red Cross Shelter today
Qualcomm Stadium will be ceasing its operation today at noon. Evacuees at the stadium are requested to move to the Del Mar Fairgrounds shelter. Other Red Cross shelters continue to receive evacuees as well.
These facilities will remain open as long as there is a need. Residents will be provided a safe place to stay, meals and snacks, and basic health services at these locations. Additional shelters are being opened and operated by municipal and partner organizations. Residents in the potential path of fire should monitor local media for the latest information about services, or call 211.
Residents are urged to place their household pets in carriers or crates plus supplies such as food and leashes if they are brought to Red Cross shelters. Bring all necessary daily medications, supplies for your children, and any other critically needed items for the next 24 to 72 hours with you to the shelter.
Residents with large animals are instructed to contact the Del Mar Fairgrounds at 858-509-5245 to find out if there is room to house the animals. Another option for large animals is the Lakeside Rodeo Grounds, located at Highway 67 and Mapleview Street.
If you would like to volunteer or donate items for fire victims, please contact the following organizations:
American Red Cross to replenish supplies at www.sdarc.org
Community Resource Center at 760-753-1156
Volunteer San Diego at 858-636-4131
At this time, the Fairgrounds and the American Red Cross shelter do not need volunteers or donations of supplies for the evacuees.
The Del Mar Fairgrounds appreciate the volunteer care and support through this difficult time for San Diego County residents.
The 22nd District Agricultural Association is a State of California agency that falls under the Department of Food and Agriculture and oversees operations at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. For more information, visit www.sdfair.com
These facilities will remain open as long as there is a need. Residents will be provided a safe place to stay, meals and snacks, and basic health services at these locations. Additional shelters are being opened and operated by municipal and partner organizations. Residents in the potential path of fire should monitor local media for the latest information about services, or call 211.
Residents are urged to place their household pets in carriers or crates plus supplies such as food and leashes if they are brought to Red Cross shelters. Bring all necessary daily medications, supplies for your children, and any other critically needed items for the next 24 to 72 hours with you to the shelter.
Residents with large animals are instructed to contact the Del Mar Fairgrounds at 858-509-5245 to find out if there is room to house the animals. Another option for large animals is the Lakeside Rodeo Grounds, located at Highway 67 and Mapleview Street.
If you would like to volunteer or donate items for fire victims, please contact the following organizations:
American Red Cross to replenish supplies at www.sdarc.org
Community Resource Center at 760-753-1156
Volunteer San Diego at 858-636-4131
At this time, the Fairgrounds and the American Red Cross shelter do not need volunteers or donations of supplies for the evacuees.
The Del Mar Fairgrounds appreciate the volunteer care and support through this difficult time for San Diego County residents.
The 22nd District Agricultural Association is a State of California agency that falls under the Department of Food and Agriculture and oversees operations at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. For more information, visit www.sdfair.com
Bridal Bazaar ticket proceeds to be donated to Red Cross
Since many brides rely on the Bridal Bazaar to plan their weddings and many San Diego area companies depend on the show to meet engaged couples and book business, the Bridal Bazaar will go on as scheduled this Sunday at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. All ticket proceeds will be donated to the Red Cross, giving attendees the opportunity to plan their weddings and help their neighbors who have been affected by the fires and evacuations.
In one day and one place, San Diego area couples can meet top wedding professionals specializing in making weddings meaningful and memorable. The show will take place in the Exhibit Hall at the Del Mar Fairgrounds Sunday, October 28, 2007 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $10. Tickets and discount coupons are available at www.BridalBazaar.com
In one day and one place, San Diego area couples can meet top wedding professionals specializing in making weddings meaningful and memorable. The show will take place in the Exhibit Hall at the Del Mar Fairgrounds Sunday, October 28, 2007 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $10. Tickets and discount coupons are available at www.BridalBazaar.com
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Kids Korps USA joins relief effort for victims
Kids Korps USA, San Diego’s leading resource for youth volunteerism, has joined efforts to help victims of this week’s wildfires.
Key relief initiatives include the following:
• Purchasing and assembling toiletry kits for displaced men, women, and children
• Assembling care packages and thank you cards for our firefighting heroes
•Coordinating Halloween parties and costume donations for child evacuees
• Assembling Thanksgiving care packages and gift cards for displaced families
Kids Korps’ members are asked to write thank you cards for our heroes, firefighters, military, National Guard, and volunteers who are on the front lines.
Kids Korps supports the following organizations that are involved in the relief efforts: American Red Cross, San Diego Food Bank, North County Food Bank, Angel’s Depot, Bread of Life, St. Vincent de Paul, San Diego Rescue Mission, Interfaith Community Services, Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, Encinitas Community Resource Center, Habitat For Humanity, Senior Community Center, Helen Woodward Animal Center, San Diego Humane Society.
For more information on Kids Korps’ relief efforts and how you can support the community, contact the Kids Korps USA office at (858) 259-3602 or visit our website at www.kidskorps.org
Key relief initiatives include the following:
• Purchasing and assembling toiletry kits for displaced men, women, and children
• Assembling care packages and thank you cards for our firefighting heroes
•Coordinating Halloween parties and costume donations for child evacuees
• Assembling Thanksgiving care packages and gift cards for displaced families
Kids Korps’ members are asked to write thank you cards for our heroes, firefighters, military, National Guard, and volunteers who are on the front lines.
Kids Korps supports the following organizations that are involved in the relief efforts: American Red Cross, San Diego Food Bank, North County Food Bank, Angel’s Depot, Bread of Life, St. Vincent de Paul, San Diego Rescue Mission, Interfaith Community Services, Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, Encinitas Community Resource Center, Habitat For Humanity, Senior Community Center, Helen Woodward Animal Center, San Diego Humane Society.
For more information on Kids Korps’ relief efforts and how you can support the community, contact the Kids Korps USA office at (858) 259-3602 or visit our website at www.kidskorps.org
Missing horses? Contact RSF Polo Club
San Diego Polo Club wishes to thank all those people in the community who came in this drastic time of need with donations of hay, apples, sunscreen, manpower, food for the staff, and overall support and good wishes.
The Club grounds offered shelter for over 500 horses from around the community. The regular polo season just came to an end September 30th, allowing for plenty of stall space for the refugees of the fire.
Around 11:00 a.m. this morning, the SDPC office received news that parts of Rancho Santa Fe and other outlying areas, were opening back up for people and their animals to return home.
Dozens of the horses were heading home today after four days of camping out here at the San Diego Polo Club. There are still over 100 horses here at the Club, many without owners.
If you are missing horses, or know people who are missing animals, please give Madeleine or Heather a call in the office at 858-481-9217.
The Club and staff extend warm wishes to all those who have suffered in this tragedy.
The Club grounds offered shelter for over 500 horses from around the community. The regular polo season just came to an end September 30th, allowing for plenty of stall space for the refugees of the fire.
Around 11:00 a.m. this morning, the SDPC office received news that parts of Rancho Santa Fe and other outlying areas, were opening back up for people and their animals to return home.
Dozens of the horses were heading home today after four days of camping out here at the San Diego Polo Club. There are still over 100 horses here at the Club, many without owners.
If you are missing horses, or know people who are missing animals, please give Madeleine or Heather a call in the office at 858-481-9217.
The Club and staff extend warm wishes to all those who have suffered in this tragedy.
Lines Moving Into Rancho Santa Fe
We've received word from a Review photographer that the line of cars on Lomas Santa Fe was moving into the Ranch as of 11:30 a.m. It looks like people are finally being let back in.
Of course we'll be covering the return of residents throughout the afternoon.
Of course we'll be covering the return of residents throughout the afternoon.
Final Reopening Approvals Obtained, 5-10 Min. Until Open, Smith Says
Pete Smith said the Fire District has obtained the final approvals to reopen Rancho Santa Fe and that the area would be open in five to ten minutes. The final few minutes will be spent arranging interior checkpoints: Only residents will be allowed to enter the burned areas on the Southeast side of the Covenant.
Julie Taber also just phoned and said it will be open at 11:30 a.m.
Julie Taber also just phoned and said it will be open at 11:30 a.m.
Pete Smith: Association Doesn't Support Keeping Members Out
Just got off the phone with Pete Smith, who says the powers that be above the Sheriff's Dept. aren't lifting the evacuation orders for Rancho Santa Fe. Smith said the lower levels of the Dept. were OK with it, but some commanders in the system had not signed off yet. He would not say when he thought the orders might be lifted.
"The Association and the Patrol, we were comfortable letting people in yesterday," Smith said. "The Fire District concurred this morning — from a fire standpoint they were OK with it. We still as of right now have not gotten the Sheriff or whatever their authority above them is to open or take down the checkpoint. We had told them that as of 9 am this morning that the Association is no longer going to provide support for checkpoint activities that were keeping members out of our community."
He also stressed that the Sherrif's Department and the National Guard had done an "unbelievable" job of proving support during the wildfire crisis.
"I couldn't begin to state when it would be over," Smith said of the evacuation. "What we don't support right now is the position of keeping our members out of our community."
"The Association and the Patrol, we were comfortable letting people in yesterday," Smith said. "The Fire District concurred this morning — from a fire standpoint they were OK with it. We still as of right now have not gotten the Sheriff or whatever their authority above them is to open or take down the checkpoint. We had told them that as of 9 am this morning that the Association is no longer going to provide support for checkpoint activities that were keeping members out of our community."
He also stressed that the Sherrif's Department and the National Guard had done an "unbelievable" job of proving support during the wildfire crisis.
"I couldn't begin to state when it would be over," Smith said of the evacuation. "What we don't support right now is the position of keeping our members out of our community."
Addario: Sheriff's Dept. Is Delaying Rancho Opening
We caught up with RSFA Board President Marie Addario as she was convincing the National Guard to let her into the Ranch at the intersection of Via De Santa Fe and Calzada Del Bosque. Though she got in, Addario was clearly frustrated that members were being kept out after the Fire District had called off the evacuations on its website — a call that has since been taken off the web. She said that the Fire District had declared it all clear, but the Sherriff's Dept. was constraining things.
There was a line of at least 40 cars at Via De Santa Fe and Calzada waiting to get home. But the National Guard was still holding the intersection closed.
"All the other communities are in," Addario said. "It's time to get our members in."
Please be patient
We are publishing information as fast as authorities can give it to us--they did say RSF was open but, as is usual with any situation of this magnitude, delays do arise. They are now saying it may be about 20-30 minutes so please be aware it is opening but you may have to wait a little bit. Authorities are just trying to make this as SAFE a process as possible for everyone.
Ranch To Open In 20-30 Min., Taber Says
Rancho Santa Fe will likely be open to residents in 20 to 30 minutes, according to FD Spokesperson Julie Taber.
We reported a few minutes ago that the evacuation orders had been lifted, but heard from residents that the National Guard was still keeping people out of the RSF Covenant. As of this moment, it IS NOT open to residents.
Taber said, however, that it will be shortly. The various authorities involved are working out details of their repopulation scheme and as soon as that's done, Taber said, residents will be let back in. Her guess was that it would be less than half an hour.
We will of course post word as soon as people are actually getting in.
We reported a few minutes ago that the evacuation orders had been lifted, but heard from residents that the National Guard was still keeping people out of the RSF Covenant. As of this moment, it IS NOT open to residents.
Taber said, however, that it will be shortly. The various authorities involved are working out details of their repopulation scheme and as soon as that's done, Taber said, residents will be let back in. Her guess was that it would be less than half an hour.
We will of course post word as soon as people are actually getting in.
Fairbanks Residents Can Return, Others Still Evacuated
The RSF Fire District declared a few minutes ago that residents of Fairbanks Ranch may return to their homes via San Dieguito Rd. All other areas of the district are still under evaluation. They're saying another update could come around 10 a.m.
We'll have more information in a few minutes.
We'll have more information in a few minutes.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Taber: RSF Evacuation Likely To End Thursday, Not During Night
Since the afternoon is wearing on, I checked in with FD spokesperson Julie Taber about when the evacuation might end:
"I don’t think they would do it [repopulation] during the night," Taber said. "At this point I would look for them to start sometime tomorrow. That’s unofficial. I wouldn’t plan on it for today."
Once again, this is NOT official and we do not know for sure when people will be allowed back into RSF. But with the sun descending in the bright-orange sky and long evening shadows coming on here in Rancho Santa Fe, it looks like it might be another day before residents can return to their homes.
"I don’t think they would do it [repopulation] during the night," Taber said. "At this point I would look for them to start sometime tomorrow. That’s unofficial. I wouldn’t plan on it for today."
Once again, this is NOT official and we do not know for sure when people will be allowed back into RSF. But with the sun descending in the bright-orange sky and long evening shadows coming on here in Rancho Santa Fe, it looks like it might be another day before residents can return to their homes.
Updates on Rancho Del Rio
Along with the other burned-out addresses I just listed for Rancho Del Rio, I noticed that the Fire District is listing these below as well. This brings the total confirmed in Rancho Del Rio to eight; though we heard of one more from a neighbor.
17511 Caminito de los Escoses
17516 Caminito de los Escoses
17555 Caminito de los Escoses
Damaged or Destroyed Homes in Fairbanks
The Fire District has recently listed the addresses of homes burned in Fairbanks Ranch — the first confirmation of this we've heard of. Here are the addresses as listed on the FD's website:
6103 Avenida Picacho
5990 Calle Camposeco
6039 Calle Camposeco
6139 Calle Camposeco
6146 Calle Camposeco
6151 Calle Camposeco
El Mirador Details
Kevin, a reader, just phoned in with specific info on El Mirador homes that some of you have requested:
- 17077 El Mirador: Kevin says the house is fine, but a truck parked in the front was destroyed by the fire.
- 17153 El Mirador: Again, the house itself is fine. Some scrub brush in the ravine was burned, but the landscaping near the structure and the house itself sustained no damage.
Kevin says the flames got "pretty darn close" to both of these homes, but they're fine.
- 17077 El Mirador: Kevin says the house is fine, but a truck parked in the front was destroyed by the fire.
- 17153 El Mirador: Again, the house itself is fine. Some scrub brush in the ravine was burned, but the landscaping near the structure and the house itself sustained no damage.
Kevin says the flames got "pretty darn close" to both of these homes, but they're fine.
The Rancho Del Rio Situation
This is NOT a confirmed number, but an honest-seeming Rancho Del Rio resident told me a few minutes ago that nine homes in the area were burned. I counted five, but I didn't check out every driveway on every street:
- On Rancho Del Rio: 17400, 17403, 17417 and 17455 (pictured at bottom).
- On La Brisa: 17345
The homes listed on Rancho Del Rio were the only homes on that street burned. I drove down La Brisa and saw only the one house at the end burned, but I'm not completely sure that's all.
Empty Disaster Streets
The emptiness of the village area in Rancho Santa Fe is startling. The only people around are the RSF Patrol, who suspiciously eye anyone not in an official vehicle, and the various fire crews still hanging around. The Village Presbyterian Church parking lot has become their de facto rest stop. The lot is filled with parked engines and resting fire fighters . Yesterday I saw some sleeping on the lawn in front.We're still waiting for word on when the evacuations will be over. Right now the National Guard is still posted everywhere to keep people out.
Message from Supervisor Bill Horn
Message from Supervisor Bill Horn
October 24, 2007
· I want to express my deep sympathies to those who have lost property during the fires that have ravaged North County. I also want to say how proud I am of the tremendous job public safety people have done responding with heroism to save lives and property under near-combat conditions.
· I was able to work with Pete Smith of the Rancho Santa Fe Association in assessing the initial damage done to that historic area
· Today, Supervisor Jacob and I asked the Board to waive fees for permits of those who will need to rebuild in the unincorporated areas of our county and asked that the building process be expedited for fire victims. They unanimously agreed.
· Chairman Ron Roberts has shown great leadership and I have been in contact with him as he has coordinated the effort with federal, state and local officials. This afternoon at 4 PM, I will appear at a news briefing at the Office of Emergency Services to give my perspective on North County.
· When it is safe for people to return to their homes, we will give out specific information as fast as we can
· I am so proud to be your Supervisor and to be with you during this catastrophic event. Together we will rebuild and together we will return our North County to the gem it was before the fires. God bless all of you.
October 24, 2007
· I want to express my deep sympathies to those who have lost property during the fires that have ravaged North County. I also want to say how proud I am of the tremendous job public safety people have done responding with heroism to save lives and property under near-combat conditions.
· I was able to work with Pete Smith of the Rancho Santa Fe Association in assessing the initial damage done to that historic area
· Today, Supervisor Jacob and I asked the Board to waive fees for permits of those who will need to rebuild in the unincorporated areas of our county and asked that the building process be expedited for fire victims. They unanimously agreed.
· Chairman Ron Roberts has shown great leadership and I have been in contact with him as he has coordinated the effort with federal, state and local officials. This afternoon at 4 PM, I will appear at a news briefing at the Office of Emergency Services to give my perspective on North County.
· When it is safe for people to return to their homes, we will give out specific information as fast as we can
· I am so proud to be your Supervisor and to be with you during this catastrophic event. Together we will rebuild and together we will return our North County to the gem it was before the fires. God bless all of you.
Mandatory Evacuation Still In Place For RSF
Fire district spokeswoman Julie Taber says the mandatory evacuation is still in place for Rancho Santa Fe. Many have hoped that it will be lifted with the easing of winds this afternoon, but there are still many downed trees and other hazards in the area. Taber said they're "working on a plan," presumably for repopulation, but she didn't know when they'll put it into action.
Of course, we will post an update as soon as we get word that the evacuation is over.
Of course, we will post an update as soon as we get word that the evacuation is over.
Tell Us Your Story
What's been happening to you and your family during the fire crisis? We at the Review want to hear your story! Write us at ian@sdranchcoastnews.com or editor@sdranchcoastnews.com, or call us at 858/756-1451. Over the next few days we'll be trying to get in touch with as many Rancho Santa Fe Residents as possible to capture what happened to the community in this time of great crisis. We're already planning an expansive post-fire issue that will be rich with residents' stories and images of the 2007 wildfires. We'd love to have your experiences be part of it!
RSF Foundation and RSF Review partner to aid local fire victims
Once again, the RSF Foundation has partnered with the RSF Review to receive donations for victims of local wildfires. Visit their website for more information.
Check Updates at right
Dear readers,
Make sure to check the column at thr right hand side of this page to see a complete list of updates that may interest you.
Just click on the title of interest and the update will come up. Or scroll down this page and you will see most stories.
Make sure to check the column at thr right hand side of this page to see a complete list of updates that may interest you.
Just click on the title of interest and the update will come up. Or scroll down this page and you will see most stories.
Luck Or Lack Thereof
One of the many shocking things about this fire is the randomness with which it burned through Rancho Santa Fe. Only in a small number of places, such as on the east side of Zumaque, did the fire claim several neighboring structures. In other areas, one can drive for a while without seeing any sign of fire ... and suddenly run across a swath of blackened land and a home completely destroyed. The flames seem to have traveled through the low-lying creek and canyon areas, such as the one off of Via Monalex, above. The house from whose driveway I took that image — 7098 — was totally unharmed, though the flames came within feet of it. But the structure next door, 7097 (seen at top) was totally destroyed.
Another burned-out creek area (above) behind Avenida Luis.
Utilities crews from SDG&E and AT&T are in the area today checking on power and telephone lines. Shown above are Dan and Benny, two Primary Assessors for SDG&E who are reporting downed power lines. It's not the easiest job in the world — they said they had to make four or five calls to various authorities to figure out where to go. And then they have to contend with hotspots, hidden areas in the ground that aren't smoking but may be very, very hot and still in danger of flaring up. "I just feel sorry for all these people," Benny, at right, said about the fire and evacuation. "But it's for their own safety." He said his own home was full of relatives fleeing Ramona blazes. Below, the house they were working near: 16910 Avenida Luis.
Readers' Unharmed Homes
We've been getting requests to check out specific homes in the fire area. The following homes are completely unharmed (NOTE: These are not nearly ALL the unharmed homes in the Ranch, just those we've been asked to check into.)
6427 La Valle Plateada — OK
16501 Los Barbos — OK
17474 El Vuelo — OK
6427 La Valle Plateada — OK
16501 Los Barbos — OK
17474 El Vuelo — OK
Insurance contact numbers for wildfire victims
Insurance Contact Numbers for San Diego County Wildfire Victims
Updated as of 10/24/2007 11:26 AM
AAA 1(800) 672-5246
AIG 1(877) 638-4244, 1(888) 244-6163
Allstate Insurance 1(800) 255-7828, 1(800) 547-8676
http://www.allstate.com/catastrophe/state/ca.aspx
Amica Mutual Insurance 1(800) 242-6422
Century-National Insurance 1(800) 733-1980
CNA 1(877) 262-2727
Chubb 1(800) 252-4670
Farmers Insurance 1(800) 435-7764, 1(866) 813-7551
http://www.farmers.com/FarmComm/WebSite/html/common/catpage.html
Mobile Centers are also located at the following sites:
Mira Mesa High School
San Marco High School
Mission High School
Escondido High School
Carlsbad High School
Del Mar Fairgrounds
Qualcomm Stadium, near Gate A
Chula Vista High School
Fireman’s Fund 1(888) 347-3428
GeoVera Specialty 1(800) 631-6478
Hartford AARP 1(800) 423-0567
(Santee office location is closed as of 10/24, 8:22 a.m.)
Hartford (Other) 1(800) 624-5578
Liberty Mutual 1-800-225-1567
Mercury Casualty Group 1(888) 913-6372
http://www.mercuryinsurance.com/claims/
MetLife Auto and Home 1(800) 854-6011
Nationwide/Allied 1(800) 421-3535, 1(800) 282-1446
http://www.nationwide.com/nw/newsroom/on-your-side/california-wildfires/california-wildfires.htm?oys=ca_wildfires&pos=1
A booth is being set up at Qualcomm Stadium. A Mobile Claims Unit is expected to be in San Diego on Friday.
Progressive Casualty Group 1(800) 776-4737
Safeco 1(800) 332-3226
State Farm 1(877) 734-2265, 1(800) 732-5246
http://www.statefarm.com/about/part_spos/community/sflocal/california/home.asp
Travelers Home and Auto 1(800) 252-4633
Business Claims can call 1(800) 238-6225
USAA 1(800) 531-8222
Updated as of 10/24/2007 11:26 AM
AAA 1(800) 672-5246
AIG 1(877) 638-4244, 1(888) 244-6163
Allstate Insurance 1(800) 255-7828, 1(800) 547-8676
http://www.allstate.com/catastrophe/state/ca.aspx
Amica Mutual Insurance 1(800) 242-6422
Century-National Insurance 1(800) 733-1980
CNA 1(877) 262-2727
Chubb 1(800) 252-4670
Farmers Insurance 1(800) 435-7764, 1(866) 813-7551
http://www.farmers.com/FarmComm/WebSite/html/common/catpage.html
Mobile Centers are also located at the following sites:
Mira Mesa High School
San Marco High School
Mission High School
Escondido High School
Carlsbad High School
Del Mar Fairgrounds
Qualcomm Stadium, near Gate A
Chula Vista High School
Fireman’s Fund 1(888) 347-3428
GeoVera Specialty 1(800) 631-6478
Hartford AARP 1(800) 423-0567
(Santee office location is closed as of 10/24, 8:22 a.m.)
Hartford (Other) 1(800) 624-5578
Liberty Mutual 1-800-225-1567
Mercury Casualty Group 1(888) 913-6372
http://www.mercuryinsurance.com/claims/
MetLife Auto and Home 1(800) 854-6011
Nationwide/Allied 1(800) 421-3535, 1(800) 282-1446
http://www.nationwide.com/nw/newsroom/on-your-side/california-wildfires/california-wildfires.htm?oys=ca_wildfires&pos=1
A booth is being set up at Qualcomm Stadium. A Mobile Claims Unit is expected to be in San Diego on Friday.
Progressive Casualty Group 1(800) 776-4737
Safeco 1(800) 332-3226
State Farm 1(877) 734-2265, 1(800) 732-5246
http://www.statefarm.com/about/part_spos/community/sflocal/california/home.asp
Travelers Home and Auto 1(800) 252-4633
Business Claims can call 1(800) 238-6225
USAA 1(800) 531-8222
Update From RSF Association board president Marie Addario
I just spoke to our RSF Association Manager Pete Smith who has been at the fire department in town since early Monday. The Covenant is still in lock down and will probably be until Thursday. National guard is protecting our boarders from looters. Today there will be a major clean up. Debris and felled trees are an issue. No one can enter the Covenant area. Winds are erratic and there is still a chance that small fires could flare up. We lost 16 covenant homes, and damaged to others exist, but that information is not yet conclusive. Use the fire department's web site: rsf-fire.org to check on evacuation status- if you don't have access, call them at 858 756 5971. Good luck to you all.
Marie Addario
RSF Association board president
Marie Addario
RSF Association board president
Update from RSF Patrol Chief Matt Wellhouser
The RSF Review just spoke with Rancho Santa Fe Patrol Chief Matt Wellhouser who assures residents that security teams are patrolling the area to keep homes as safe as possible. He adds that while it is hoped that Rancho Santa Fe residents may be able to begin returning home later today and tomorrow, please do not return at this time. Wellhouser said there are still certain “hot spots” in the Ranch that need to be addressed and, until it is safe, emergency personnel do not want the roads to get clogged with people returning. Wellhouser said that while there are parts of Rancho Santa Fe that are no longer affected by fire they need to keep those roads open to be able to access the hot spots. He said that things like a fallen power line could immediately create a problem so please do not return until the all clear has been given. Continue to check this Web site and the RSF Fire District Web site for news that it is OK for Rancho Santa Fe residents to return home in an orderly way.
Fire District: No Losses in Shelter-in-Place Parts of Cielo, Crosby, 4S Ranch
From RSF Fire District Spokesperson Julie Taber: There have been no lost structures in the "shelter-in-place" areas of Cielo, Crosby and 4S Ranch. But some 4S Ranch homes that were NOT in that area were lost. She said they're "working to confirm" no losses for the Bridges — which means that they don't know of any lost homes there yet.
Latest damage assessment for the RSF Fire District: 40 structures lost. That's only five more than at this time yesterday. Addresses of some burned structures are on their website.
On when the mandatory evacuations for RSF would end, Taber was not certain. "We can't let people in just to turn around and evacuate them again," Taber said. "I wouldn't expect anything sooner than this afternoon."
Latest damage assessment for the RSF Fire District: 40 structures lost. That's only five more than at this time yesterday. Addresses of some burned structures are on their website.
On when the mandatory evacuations for RSF would end, Taber was not certain. "We can't let people in just to turn around and evacuate them again," Taber said. "I wouldn't expect anything sooner than this afternoon."
Smoky Skies Over the Ranch; CV, DM (Not RSF) Repopulated
While residents of Carmel Valley and Del Mar have been allowed to return to their homes as of around 7 a.m. this morning, Rancho Santa Fe is quiet and utterly empty. National Guardsmen with assault rifles and Humvees are posted at the west entrances to Rancho Santa Fe, though their presence seems a bit reduced compared to yesterday afternoon, when the above photo of the village (with Humvee) was taken. The emptiness is incredibly eerie.
Some areas of the Ranch seem to still be producing smoke. Driving down Via De La Valle this morning between Paseo Delicias and Via De Santa Fe, I saw small clouds of smoke rising from some of the corrals to the left. However, I was told last night that all the structure fires were out. The smoke wafting over the Ranch (see top photo, taken a few minutes ago from Linea Del Cielo) is likely coming from other fires to the northeast.
Weather reports for San Diego indicate that the Santa Ana winds could ease significantly by this afternoon, though we do not know whether that means RSF residents will be allowed to return home. The Fire District appears to be concerned with other issues besides fire danger before letting people back in.
We've received a spate of requests to check on homes and will spend some time doing that to update those of you with specific concerns.
Also, please contact us with any useful information you might have, or with stories of what's happened to your and your family during this crazy week. We're in the office now at 858/756-1451 or ian@sdranchcoastnews.com.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Fire District Posting Addresses Of Burned Homes
The Fire District has begun posting the addresses of damaged homes on their website:
So far the fire has burned approximately 4,400 acres in the Rancho Santa Fe District. There are a reported 35 structures destroyed, but that number has not yet been confirmed. The following is partial, unofficial list of structures that were damaged or destroyed by the fire. The list will be updated as more information is obtained. Again, this list is not yet complete nor is it considered to be official.
16910 Avenida Luis
16924 Avenida Luis
6125 Camino Selva
6129 Camino Selva
6131 Camino Selva
17122 El Mirador
17116 El Vuelo
7035 Las Colinas
16807 Via de la Valle
16827 Via de la Valle
16843 Via de Santa Fe
7097 Via Monalex
16501 Zumaque Street
16526 Zumaque Street
16583 Zumaque Street
16655 Zumaque Street
16729 Zumaque Street
16755 Zumaque Street
Five houses at Rancho Del Rio; One at Summit
Just got word from another reader that five houses in Rancho Del Rio and one at Summit burned in the Witch Fire, which is now at over 200,000 acres and counting. No word on how complete the damage is.
Please pass on to us any information that might be useful!
Please pass on to us any information that might be useful!
West Covenant Update From A Reader
Corinne reports:
I talked to someone in the area of Linea del Cielo and Calzada del Bosque who said everything looks fine and that the National Guard are patrolling currently. They watched the air support attack the fires at Zumaque. The westside of RSF is in good shape, it seems.
Zumaque Damage
This is not a complete report of the damage on Zumaque, but I did verify the destruction of the following homes with my own eyes: 16755 (middle), 16729 (top), 16655, 16583 and 16526. There are more, including (I'm pretty sure) the house on the other (north) side of 16755, for the person who asked. I believe that all the homes on the west side of the street made it, but I'll try to get back there later for a full tally. The bottom picture gives you a feel for the huge patch of burn area stretching east.
Recent Images of Rancho Santa Fe
This spot fire was off of Las Cuestas a couple hours ago. As the wind flared up, these piles of bark got quite hot...
Schools Closed All Week
Just got word from RSF School District Acting Superintendent Cindy Schaub that the RSF District and all 42 public school districts in San Diego County will be closed for the remainder of the week. The decision was made by the Superintendents this morning at around 10 a.m. The group of public school leaders will continue to make statements throughout the week, Schaub said.
Schaub also said that because the Governor has declared a state of emergency, it's likely that the days will not have to be made up.
Schaub also said that because the Governor has declared a state of emergency, it's likely that the days will not have to be made up.
The Damage So Far
We've been driving around the area nearly all day taking pictures and trying to figure out where the burning is and is not. About 4,400 acres in the RSF Fire District have been hit, according to the FD's website. This is what we've figured out so far by area:
- Cielo/Crosby/Del Dios: Most of these areas looked unharmed. There were burnt patches of ground all around and on both side of Del Dios Highway, but we could not see any burned houses from Del Dios looking in either direction. Just lots of homes sitting near swaths of black ground. It's still smoking in patches — and there are likely burned homes here that just weren't visible from Del Dios Highway — but overall most homes seem to have been preserved. The wind has also died down considerably. Some firefighters we asked at the Cielo station had no information about the fate of structures in the area.
- Fairbanks Ranch: seems pretty calm at this time. We do not think many homes were hit.
- RSF Covenant: The eastern areas were hit fairly hard. Many houses along the east side of Zumaque were completely destroyed. The picture above is of 16755 Zumaque. Looking east from the burned out homes on Zumaque, the burn area (across the river) was jaw-dropping — though it looks like many homes survived. Just that eastern edge of the Covenant that got hit pretty bad.
- Everything west of these areas, including west of RSF village, the western portion of Fairbanks Ranch, Carmel Valley and Del Mar are untouched by the fires.
It's been hard to get total structure fire counts from the authorities, but we should hear soon.
Are people being let back in to RSF? We believe the official answer is no, but there's some traffic. If you got back in — or even if not — share your story with us at ian@sdranchcoastnews.com or (858) 756-1451.
Important information for donors to the Red Cross
Any donations made to the American Red Cross in support of fire recovery efforts in San Diego should be made payable to “American Red Cross San Diego Fire.” This information will ensure that the money donated will be used for local fire recovery efforts only.
'In Fairbanks Right Now It's Looking Good'
... That's the word from a battalion chief in the San Dieguito Rd. area. The sky is clear-ish over Fairbanks Ranch, and after driving back and forth across it on San Dieguito, it seems he's right — I didn't see any smoke rising within the gates. But the area did burn last night. He said two homes had been hit.
East on San Dieguito Rd., as one leaves Fairbanks and the unincorporated area, spots of the hills are on fire. But there are many fire engines and firefighters around, and they seem to be out in the brush battling each individual flare-up as it happens. This is the best shot I could get.
12-13 Homes in Covenant Gone
RSF Covenant Manager Pete Smith said that he was aware of 12 houses in the east side of the Covenant that have been completely destroyed. He supplied the following breakdown:
- 2 houses on Avenida Luis
- 6 houses on Zumaque
- 1 house on Las Colinas
- 1 house on El Mirador
- 1 house on El Vuelo
- 1 house on Via Monalex
- 1 house on Via De Santa Fe/Camino Selva
- There's also some burning along Via De La Valle, near the intersection of Via De Santa Fe.
OK, this doesn't quite add up. We'll try to figure why. But Smith said he did not know of any structures that are currently burning.
Smith also said that 25-40 National Guard members would be arriving in RSF today to help efforts. The Border Patrol and 40-50 officers from Sherriff's Department are already here to prevent looting. RSF Patrol Chief Matt Wellhouser is managing the security effort, according to Smith.
Also, the entire area is closed to non-emergency personnel — RSF residents CANNOT go to their homes at this point.
We'll be posting information on Fairbanks Ranch and Cielo shortly.
- 2 houses on Avenida Luis
- 6 houses on Zumaque
- 1 house on Las Colinas
- 1 house on El Mirador
- 1 house on El Vuelo
- 1 house on Via Monalex
- 1 house on Via De Santa Fe/Camino Selva
- There's also some burning along Via De La Valle, near the intersection of Via De Santa Fe.
OK, this doesn't quite add up. We'll try to figure why. But Smith said he did not know of any structures that are currently burning.
Smith also said that 25-40 National Guard members would be arriving in RSF today to help efforts. The Border Patrol and 40-50 officers from Sherriff's Department are already here to prevent looting. RSF Patrol Chief Matt Wellhouser is managing the security effort, according to Smith.
Also, the entire area is closed to non-emergency personnel — RSF residents CANNOT go to their homes at this point.
We'll be posting information on Fairbanks Ranch and Cielo shortly.
'The Eeriest Thing Ever'
Camino Selva resident Glenn Palmedo-Smith was lucky — his home made it through the night. But some homes on the street, which lies southeast of the RSF Village, weren't so lucky. As of early this morning at least two homes were totally destroyed and another was smoldering. Palmedo-Smith, a film director, evacuated Monday but this morning returned to get his "livelihood" — video equipment — before going to a nearby hotel. He said he was one of the last to evacuate on Monday evening. "It was the eeriest thing ever," Palmedo-Smith said of the Ranch Monday evening. "It was like nuclear war."
Above, another home on Camino Selva.
A Home On El Mirador This Morning
Some homes on the eastern side of the Covenant have been completely devastated — like this one at 17134 El Mirador. But many others are untouched. Firefighters from all over are posted on streets throughout the area trying to tamp down any blazes that flare up in the wind.
The firemen all look extremely exhausted. One fire captain from the Carlsbad dept. said his crew has been out fighting fires since Sunday. "We've had about two hours of sleep in roughly 56 hours," he said.
Taber: 35 Structures in RSF Fire District Burned
Thirty-five structures in the Rancho Santa Fe Fire District, including homes in the RSF Covenant and Rancho Cielo, have been hit by the flames of the Witch Fire, according to spokeswoman Julie Taber.
Taber said a few minutes ago that crews were battling two fingers of the blaze: one headed north from Cielo toward Escondido Creek; and one moving from the Zumaque area on the east side of the RSF Covenant south towards Fairbanks Ranch.
Some homes near the RSF Village have been hit, including several structures on Camino Selva. Spot fires continue to burn in some areas of the Covenant, but Taber said she did not know of any major flank moving through.
Taber said a few minutes ago that crews were battling two fingers of the blaze: one headed north from Cielo toward Escondido Creek; and one moving from the Zumaque area on the east side of the RSF Covenant south towards Fairbanks Ranch.
Some homes near the RSF Village have been hit, including several structures on Camino Selva. Spot fires continue to burn in some areas of the Covenant, but Taber said she did not know of any major flank moving through.
Update; About This Blog
Due to concerns about bringing our full staff into the evacuation area, we'll be covering the fires in Rancho Santa Fe from this blog. We'll update it with specific information on homes and areas burned as we get it. Rancho residents, please e-mail us with stories of what happened to you and your families yesterday. You can reach us at ian@sdranchcoastnews.com or editor@sdranchcoastnews.com.
Our offices are in Fairbanks Village Plaza at the intersection of San Dieguito and El Apajo. Though parts of Fairbanks have been burning since Monday, the fires don't yet seem close to where we are. We'll hopefully get more specific information on Fairbanks soon.
Our offices are in Fairbanks Village Plaza at the intersection of San Dieguito and El Apajo. Though parts of Fairbanks have been burning since Monday, the fires don't yet seem close to where we are. We'll hopefully get more specific information on Fairbanks soon.
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