SCRIPPS RANCH FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY

Library upgrades near completion

Latest update

We just received an encouraging update on the roof and HVAC replacement work at the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library! Both projects are nearing completion. We are hopeful that some welcome refreshes to the library’s interior will also take place before our library reopens – during the upcoming winter or perhaps even sooner. The parking lot expansion will reportedly resume once again in September with completion projected for summer 2027.

Accessing library services during closure

During the time the library is closed, books and other materials can be returned to the Mira Mesa Branch Library or to any library in the San Diego Public Library (SDPL) system (www.sandiego.gov/public-library/locations). Note that this does not include the Poway Library, which cannot accept SDPL books. When placing a hold through their online SDPL account, library patrons will be prompted to select the branch library where they’d like to pick-up their books. Consider exploring the free programs available at other branch libraries; check the events calendar on the SDPL website for information.

Friends of the Library news

Even though our library has been closed for more than three months, the Scripps Ranch Friends of the Library (SRFOL) board continues to meet. A budget was adopted at the last meeting, and SRFOL is planning a special celebratory re-opening event for when that long anticipated time arrives. The publication of SRFOL’s e-newsletter “The Folio” continues as well, at a reduced frequency of alternate months – rather than the customary monthly issues – during the closure. If you don’t already receive this important source of information about our library and library services in general, sign up by emailing president@srfol.org. In addition, the SRFOL’s website contains a wealth of information and is updated frequently. Visit www.srfol.org.

Seed Library is open

Thinking about fall planting? Check out the offerings of the Scripps Ranch Seed Library, which has been relocated from the library for the duration of the closure and is being maintained by SRFOL volunteers. The Seed Library has a large selection of seeds – including flowers, herbs and vegetables – available without charge to community members. Those who receive seeds are encouraged to harvest and return some seeds to the library in order to perpetuate the collection and share with other gardeners, although this is optional. Visit www.srfol.org/seed-library.htm to learn more. Seeds can be requested by emailing seedlibrary@srfol.org and picked up from a centrally located Scripps Ranch home.  

Book donation options

During the time our library and Grace’s Book Nook (the Friends-run used bookstore) are closed, we are unable to accept donations of books.  If you can wait until our library reopens to donate your gently used books and media, that would be optimal. We’ll help your books find new homes, and you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that you’re supporting our library! But if that’s not possible, look for information on alternate donation options that also support our libraries at www.srfol.org/gbn-donate.htm. However, please do not leave books outside the library as they will end up in the landfill.

Scripps Ranch High School hosts Pop Warner Night

Pop Warner Night: Scripps Ranch High School hosted youngsters from the Scripps Ranch Pop Warner Football and Cheer Association at the Falcons home football game on Aug. 28.

SRHS varsity team lost a close one

The SRHS varsity football team lost a close one to Warren High from Downey, Calif., 25-26 on Aug 28. The Falcons blocked two extra point attempts but couldn’t gain the advantage as time ran out. The next game is at home vs. Eastlake High on Sept. 11.

Symphony in the Park seeks financial support

By Ashley Shah

The Scripps Ranch Symphony in the Park organization has been bringing music to the community for more than 40 years. 

The group is a not for profit organization that hosts four concerts during the summer months, a holiday concert each December, and donates money to the local music programs in Scripps Ranch. 

“The mission of our organization has always been to bring our community together through music. We have such a special community here in Scripps Ranch, and these concerts are a tradition,” board member Steve Fiorina said. 

However, since the COVID-19 pandemic fallout in 2020, the organization has been facing some financial struggles. 

“Businesses and families are not donating as much anymore since the pandemic, but the price of everything has increased and continues to increase,” Symphony in the Park President Rachel Votel said. 

The organization does not charge an admission fee to attend the concerts, but the concerts do cost money to produce. 

“For the summer concert series in total, the bands cost around $17,000, the sound system is about $12,000, park operations – which include porta potties, permits, dumpsters, etc. – cost around $6,000, printing and advertising is around $600. Additionally, at our September concert, we donate money back to every school’s private and public music program,” Votel said. “Our holiday concert costs about one-third of what our summer concerts cost.” 

Each summer concert draws more than 1,000 members of the community in attendance. 

“To experience one of our concerts is so unique. I know there are a lot of other cities that have started hosting these summer concerts, but the community aspect of ours is like no other,” Fiorina said. “I know people that have moved away, but specifically time their visits back to San Diego around our concerts so that they can attend.”

Donations to the organization are tax-deductible, as the organization is a 501(c)(3) registered nonprofit group. 

“We have different tiers for donations. To be a concert host or sponsor, the donation would be $2,500. We do not change the donation amount for sponsors because we do not want to lose them,” Votel said. “However, you can donate as little as $25 to be at the ‘friends and family’ donation level.”

Donations to the organization can be made through the website at symphonyinthepark.com under the donation tab, or by mail to 10755 Scripps Poway Parkway, #189, San Diego, CA 92131. 

“We are in a tough spot, but not in a crisis,” Fiorina said. “We deeply appreciate the businesses and members of the community that choose to donate.” 

Garden experts set for autumn 

By Denise Stewart

The Scripps-Mesa Garden Club will host gardening expert speakers at its monthly meetings this fall, according to program director Alva Rivera. After the club’s August outdoor harvest celebration potluck, members will be returning to their meeting place at the Scripps Ranch Community Center. The club meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday evening of each month at 6 p.m.

September’s topic will be Shade Loving Plants. The guest speaker, Michael Ludwig, has been involved with plant societies since 1977. They include Begonia, Camellia, Fuchsia, Gesneriads, Ferns, Plumeria, houseplants and exotics. He is also dedicated to landscaping and vegetable gardening.

Ludwig is a Begonia, fern, gesneriad judge and has judged at the San Diego Fair and numerous federated garden club shows. He was landscaper at the Academy of Our Lady of Peace for 45 years and has done garden consultations as part of his life’s work.

In October, Kathryn Blankinship, a UC Master Gardener, will address the topic of Plant Timing.

Garden tours were the focus of the club’s summer schedule. In July, Tom and Ann Massey hosted the gardeners in their expansive backyard full of a wide variety of flowering plants and trees. Among the highlights of the tour was a secret garden the Masseys have constructed that shelters a small ornamental table and chairs. It’s a favorite spot where their grandchildren enjoy sharing tea and treats, according to the hosts.

In August, Lynnell Hallock, once again, shared her gardening experiences with her backyard collection of lavish plantings. The yard is bursting with color from the hanging potted plants near her home to the blooming shrubs surrounding the lawn area, and to the trees growing up the hill behind her yard.

Scripps-Mesa Garden Club has been growing with Scripps Ranch since 1993. Their membership is open to anyone with an interest in gardening and greenery.  

The French Oven Bakery continues to rise 

By Debbie L. Sklar

While most of San Diego is still asleep, Yves Fournier is already at work. By 3 a.m., the fifth-generation French baker is preparing the croissants, breads and pastries that have made The French Oven Bakery a beloved Scripps Ranch destination since opening in 2017.

Now, nearly nine years later, Fournier has expanded the bakery’s reach with a second location in Del Mar while continuing to serve the community that helped make his dream a reality.

The Del Mar location operates several days a week inside an office building and is open to the public. It offers many of the bakery’s popular items, including pastries, coffee, salads, sandwiches and lunch options. The location also provides another opportunity for the bakery to grow its catering services.

Fournier said the opportunity came when the office building approached him because of The French Oven Bakery’s reputation for quality.

“They wanted to use our services because of the quality of our products and our reputation,” he said.

Although the business has expanded, Fournier said the bakery’s philosophy has stayed the same.

“It’s the quality, the tradition and the consistency,” he said. “Everything is made fresh every day.”

That dedication comes from a lifetime surrounded by baking. Fournier grew up in the French Alps, living above his family’s bakery and learning the craft from his father. His family baking tradition dates back generations, with a bakery established in 1840.

“I’m a fifth-generation baker,” he said.

Fournier came to San Diego in 1992, beginning a culinary career that included positions at some of the hospitality industry’s most respected properties. His experience includes working at the Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage, the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco and the Grand Hyatt Manchester in downtown San Diego.

He later spent 15 years as the executive pastry chef instructor at the San Diego Culinary Institute, where he shared his expertise and passion for the craft with aspiring pastry professionals.

Before opening The French Oven Bakery, Fournier began hosting pop-up bakery events from his home. He created a small Facebook group with about 20 people, but word spread quickly. Friends invited friends, and soon hundreds of people were following along. The overwhelming response helped inspire him to open a full-time bakery in Scripps Ranch.

The bakery quickly developed a loyal following, with customers lining up for its authentic French pastries. The chocolate croissants and almond croissants are among the most popular items, along with quiche, sandwiches, desserts and other French specialties.

Beyond breakfast and pastries, the bakery has expanded its offerings with catering and special meals. Friday evening take-home dinners for two have become a popular option for customers looking for a restaurant-quality meal at home. Menus rotate and may include dishes such as beef bourguignon, coq au vin, paella or seafood dishes.

Fournier said he works hard to keep prices reasonable despite rising costs, while never compromising the quality of the ingredients or the finished product.

Running a bakery requires long hours and dedication, but Fournier remains passionate about the work.

At 56, he has no immediate plans for more locations. Instead, he is focused on continuing the tradition that has brought a taste of France to San Diego.

Find the French Oven Bakery in Scripps Ranch at 10299 Scripps Trail, Suite E. Visit online at thefrenchovenbakery.com.

Cross country team faces intense competition

By Hector Trujillo

After watching its streak of consecutive CIF-SDS titles snapped last season for both the men and women, the Scripps Ranch High School (SRHS) cross country team looks to begin another era of dominance in a much more competitive division.

The womens side had won three consecutive titles, but came in second to rival Point Loma High last season, while the men had won back-to-back titles, but came in second to Mt. Carmel by just three points.

“It’s going to be a dogfight,” said head coach Chuck Warren. “There’s at least seven super strong teams in our division, so it’s going to be extremely challenging.”

SRHS is in Division 2 along with Mt. Carmel High and Point Loma High, but will now be joined by Westview High, Poway High and Canyon Crest Academy, all of which were in Division 1 last year along with La Costa Canyon High, which moved up from Division 3.

“It’s all about enrollment and there are no power ratings or power rankings,” Warren said. “We had three of the best distance runners in San Diego and they all graduated. We have a lot of talented freshman boys and girls, so it might be a bigger team this year.”

Warren will be joined by assistant coach Eileen Quinn for 2026. SRHS had 80 total athletes competing last year with the top returners on the men’s side being runners number four through seven in seniors Liam O’Connell, Devin Liles, Nico Cruz and Scott Perry. Sophomore Rabi Behrooznia, who ran a 4:39 mile last spring, is expected to be a big contributor along with teammates Ty Marple and Gabe Schatz.

The women are expected to be ranked in the top three in the county, featuring talented runners like seniors Ellie Cannon, Riley Martin, Tegan Koranda and junior Olivia Liu. Other competitors who look to be standout performers are sophomores Kiana Farokhi, Alice Anderson and senior Talia Schatz. 

SRHS had summer workouts three days a week at Lake Miramar in preparation for the upcoming season, and official practice started Aug. 10. The first race will be the Bronco Roundup in Escondido’s Kit Carson Park on Aug. 29.

DOG PARK? There is no dog park!

By John Gregory

By all accounts, dog owners have been using a grassy area near the southeast end of Meanley Drive as a dog park for years and years. But the area has now been fenced off. The City of San Diego states that this area at 10368 Meanley Drive is not an authorized dog park. 

Some local dog owners don’t care if it’s authorized or not.

Frank Husson is a dog owner who said he often utilized the area as a dog park.

“I have used it personally for 15 years for my dogs – and many, many other people in Scripps have taken their dogs over there over the years – and now suddenly it’s no longer available. I don’t see why they still can’t let people use it for their dogs. It’s been a very popular place over the years,” he said. “I know it’s not defined as a dog park … but as far as normal thinking goes, lots of people think of it as a dog park.” 

The property sits atop a large underground water tank, although this is not obvious. The location is covered with earth. The soil atop the tank once sported a field of green grass in the center, with vegetation on the sides. Now the site, including a small parking lot, is fenced off at what was once the entrance – and the grass is dry. 

The City of San Diego Public Utilities Department (PUD) is responsible for this piece of land.

“The site commonly referred to as ‘Meanley Dog Park’ is, in fact, the Miramar Recycled Water Tank site, which houses an underground 9-million-gallon recycled water reservoir owned and operated by the Public Utilities Department (PUD),” stated Ramon Galindo, City of San Diego Communications Department senior public information officer, in an email responding to information for this story. “This reservoir is a critical public utility asset that directly supports recycled water reliability and system operations.”

The PUD is limited in how its funds are used, and a dog park is not within the guidelines.

“As a rate-supported utility, PUD is legally limited in how ratepayer funds may be used. All expenditures must comply with California’s Proposition 218, San Diego City Charter section 53, and the City’s water and wastewater bond covenants.
These requirements strictly prohibit the use of ratepayer funds to support recreational amenities, or unofficial public uses that are unrelated to the operation, maintenance, or protection of utility infrastructure. In addition, in this time of escalating costs, PUD must focus on eliminating unnecessary expenses or liabilities to protect ratepayer affordability,” Galindo stated.

The PUD serves wastewater customers and provides drinking water to 1.4 million residents. It owns and operates nine City reservoirs, three water treatment plants and three wastewater treatment plants.

It operates Miramar Reservoir, which is used as a recreational site. Why can’t the property at Meanley Drive be used for recreational purposes?

“Recreation at any City of San Diego Public Utilities Department site cannot be funded with water or wastewater ratepayer dollars. While some PUD owned reservoirs, such as Miramar, support public recreation, those activities and amenities are funded and managed using non rate revenue, typically through the City’s General Fund,” Galindo responded. “This separation ensures compliance with state and federal requirements that prohibit using utility ratepayer funds for uses that are unrelated to the operation, maintenance, or protection of utility infrastructure.”

Brown grass

The city stopped watering and cutting the grass, and stopped picking up the trash at the site, Husson said.

“Historically, the site received limited maintenance through a landscaping contract that has since expired,” Galindo stated. “The area was never permitted or designated as a recreational facility of any kind, and PUD cannot continue or renew such services to support its informal use as a dog park. Continuing maintenance for this purpose would be inconsistent with legal and financial obligations governing the utility.”

The sight of construction equipment and vehicles at the area prompted some to conclude that the City was beginning a construction project at the site, possibly as part of the City’s Pure Water Project which involves work at Miramar Reservoir. But the Miramar Recycled Water Tank is not associated with the Pure Water Project.

“The Miramar Recycled Water Tank is part of the existing recycled water distribution system and is not part of Pure Water construction. The fencing of the dog park is not associated with Pure Water construction,” Galindo stated. 

Liability, damage concerns

Dog owners enjoyed the freedom to bring their pets to the Meanley Drive location and let them roam freely.

“In particular, what was nice about this one (site) is it was an off-leash area. And so, if people would bring their dogs up there, take them off the leash and the dogs would play with each other and there were very little issues,” Husson said. “A lot of the dog parks, you have to have your dog on a leash. But this one, because it wasn’t officially a dog park, it wasn’t a leash-only park.”

But these same advantages for dog owners – along with citizens’ concerns about its lack of maintenance – prompted the City to fence the area. 

“Importantly, the community’s initial inquiry regarding the condition and maintenance of the site prompted a broader internal review. That review identified more serious concerns related to liability exposure and the risk of damage to the recycled water tank and associated infrastructure beneath what the community perceived as open space. After consulting with the City Attorney’s Office, (the) PUD, along with City leadership, decided to close the site to public access in order to protect this ratepayer-owned asset and to prevent potential damage or safety incidents for which ratepayers could ultimately be held financially responsible,” Galindo stated.

Damage to the operation of the water tank caused by dog owners might be hard to imagine, but liability concerns remain. 

“While we understand the community’s disappointment, PUD is not responsible for managing recreational open space or park facilities. We continue to support safe, permitted recreational opportunities and encourage residents to utilize designated, properly maintained, and approved location(s),” Galindo stated.

“Ongoing, unpermitted, and unregulated recreational use of this site could compromise the integrity of the underlying infrastructure. Protecting public utility assets and City-owned land is essential to ensuring long-term system reliability and safeguarding the public investment,” Galindo added. “As such, PUD has installed appropriate signage and fencing, including ‘No Trespas-sing’ notices, to deter further unauthorized use. The sign-age and fencing reflects our responsibility to manage City property responsibly, reduce risk to the community, and comply with mandated regulations.”

This has not halted the site’s popularity, nor has it stopped some dog owners from bringing their pets to the location. 

“People are still going in there. There are three or four other ways to get in there. It’s not like there aren’t other ways to get in. It’s just that the normal way, which is to go in where the parking lot is, is now locked off and you can’t get in there that way,” Husson said.

Husson mentioned that the area is so prized by dog owners that someone brought their lawn mower to trim the grass.

It’s apparent that a real dog park in Scripps Ranch would be popular, and it’s interesting that the establishment of an official City-
designated dog park has yet to be accomplished. But the process is not simple.

A citizens’ committee called Bark at the Park once organized an effort to create an off-leash dog park on land at Hendrix Park on Aviary Drive, south of Scripps Ranch Boulevard. The effort faced a difficult path through committee presentations and the City process, along with some opposition by neighbors in the area – and it fizzled.

So, would a different location for a dog park in Scripps Ranch suit local dog owners if it were possible?

“Yeah, I’d very much like that. I think a lot of people in Scripps Ranch – there’s a lot of people who own dogs – and they’d like to have a place to take their dogs,” Husson said.

Dog Photo Showcase

Enjoy these fun photos of Scripps Ranch dogs sent in by readers in the first Scripps Ranch News Dog Photo Showcase, held in conjunction with the Real House Dogs of Scripps Ranch Facebook group. 

The Scripps Ranch News Dog Photo Showcase is sponsored by Pet Wants Mira Mesa, 6906 Miramar Road, Suite B2, offering quality pet products and professional dog grooming. Visit petwantsmiramesa.com

Thanks go to all who sent in these amazing photos, as well as The Real House Dogs of Scripps Ranch and Pet Wants. 

Lemonade Stand Photo Contest

The deadline for the annual Scripps Ranch News Lemonade Stand Photo Contest is approaching. Send in a fun photo of your child’s lemonade stand from this summer.

All entries will appear in the September print edition of Scripps Ranch News and on ScrippsRanchNews.com.

One winner will receive an order of delicious treats as a prize! 

To enter, email a high resolution photo (300 dpi) of your lemonade stand to info@scrippsranchnews.com. Include the location of your stand and the date the photo was taken. Include name of the photographer and name of those in the photo from left to right.

Rules: Photo must have been taken in Scripps Ranch (92131 area). Photo must have been taken between May and Aug-
ust 2026. Please send only one photo per lemonade stand. Deadline to enter is Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2026. No charge to enter. By entering this contest you agree to allow Scripps Ranch News to publish your photo and names of those in the photo in the Scripps Ranch News print edition, on ScrippsRanchNews.com and on all Scripps Ranch News social media pages.