All Things University City: Accident Brings Out Neighbors

Not much happens in University City, which is how we like it, but when something does, it brings out the curiosity in all of us – including me. Driving back from Von’s last Sunday morning, we noticed a car had just flipped over at Stresseman, in front of the UCUC church. Now we don’t see that often in UC, especially in the quiet residential areas, so of course after I dropped off groceries, I just had to walk over there and find out what the heck happened.

Along with a couple dozen other neighbors, we found out that the woman driving the turned over vehicle, had hit a parked car (which I didn’t notice when I first drove by), then flipped over. Luckily she walked away unharmed, claiming she had passed out when she hit the parked car. The parked car didn’t look too damaged, but her car, not so lucky.

And as the gathered group watched with interest on how the tow truck operator was going to flip the vehicle back upright, it was an impromptu chance to catch up with some neighbors and to meet new ones. Plus, I always love seeing our UC Little League players wearing their T-Ball jerseys on non-game days.

But a big tragedy soon arose from this accident, at least in my household. The cable and Internet were down. Those with tweens understand. Let me tell ya, it was a grueling two hours without the Xbox Live.

(Side note: Soon after this accident and feeling “wow nothing exciting really happens in UC” my Crime Alerts report showed a recent “prostitution” crime on Kantor. Interesting. Not commenting any more on that one.)

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Many of us had to wake up from the shock (literally had to wake up – and early) that summer vacation was over and the business of school had begun. The traffic of school drop-offs was miserable, where at least one morning at UCHS, it took me 30 minutes to get in and out!

We had the school supply shopping, and last minute clothes shopping too. So for those that shopped at UTC – doesn’t the mall look great! I must admit, I’m not really a big shopper, but I’m really excited about the new upgrades. I really think the new UTC may be even better than Fashion Valley. Just saying. The new luxury theatres are being built, there’s all the trendy stores (my kids love the new Van’s, and Foot Locker stores, and are anxiously awaiting for the new SunDiego to be completed), looks like there’s going to be a two-story Forever 21, and ladies – they are opening a Tiffany’s!

Plus, have you seen the new food court? The furnishings are very contemporary and set up for leisurely group gatherings. When the kids say they want Panda Express at the food court, I’m not so hesitant anymore. And skating rink upgrades are still being done, but I may just have to try the rink out once, or better yet, who’s up for some midnight broom ball? Anyone, anyone?

I am curious about the huge outdoor screen at the center court, where there’s been lots of newly created seating areas. Outdoor movies? A Time Square vibe? We’ll just have to wait and see…but I can’t wait!

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Last week I mentioned the great new stadium with lights at UCHS, well this Friday, September 14 will be the Official Field Dedication Ceremony and UCHS Hall of Fame Induction, starting at 5:30. You will love the fact that UCHS finally has a renovated stadium with state of the art sound, Astro turf (saves us water usage), and of course lights!

UCHS starts play at 6:30 against Southwest High School. Ticket prices are $7 adults, $3 for kids 11 and under, and for students with an ASB card. There is a snack bar run by the Football Boosters, and the first 500 attendees will get a coupon for a free burrito at MXN.

The first group of UCHS Hall of Fame inductees will be presented prior to the game, and they are a group of UCHS graduates who excelled in one of a variety of disciplines on a national or international level. Now, I have seen the list of the first group (six to be exact), but I’m not allowed to say who they are yet. I will give a hint that one is a recent gold winning Olympic hurdler who represented another country. Most of you should be able to figure that one out, or just drive by the school – his name is flashing on the school’s marquee.

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Speaking of Olympians, UC resident and 1984 Olympic gold medalist in the 800m event, Joaquim Cruz was recently seen on the NBC Nightly news for his work in coaching Paralympian Blake Leeper (who has won bronze in the 200m and silver in the 400m). Kudos to both coach and athlete.

You may remember that Cruz, and in particular his wife Mary Cruz, previously organized the annual 5K on July 4th. But, due to lack of volunteers, it is now defunct. With all the runners I see every morning in UC, I think it’s time we lend them a hand and bring it back. (Maybe partner up and use the new track at UCHS? Just a thought.)

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Let's bring up schools again, make sure to calendar the following “Back to School” nights.

University City High School: Thursday, September 27, 6:00pm

Standley Middle School: Wednesday, October 24, 6:00pm

Curie Elementary: Wednesday, September 19, 5:00pm

Doyle Elementary: Wednesday, September 19, 6:00pm

Spreckels Elementary: Each grade has a different night, check with your teacher.

Remember, all the schools could use volunteers, but you must have a volunteer form on file, and have had a TB test within the past four years. The Partner’s Urgent Care (Von’s center at Genesee and Governor) will give TB tests this Wednesday, September 12 from 8:00am to 10:00, with test readings after 72 hours on Friday 6:00-8:00pm or Saturday 7:00-9:00am. Cost is $20 for UC school volunteers, teachers and staff.

SAVE THE DATE: EdUCate’s Oktoberfest – Saturday, October 6, 2:00-6:00pm (more info later)

Hope you enjoyed the All Things UC Blog for LaJolla Patch. Feel free to send me anything UC related at jemmasamala@gmail.com.