November 10, 2010 (El Cajon)—You’re invited to begin the holiday season with the warmth of friendship at Friends of East County Arts’ Annual Holiday Tea on Thursday December 9 the Ronald Reagan Community Center, 195 East Douglas Avenue, El Cajon, from 12:30 to 3 p.m.

This year’s event promises participants a stimulating afternoon of delicious tea and sandwiches, entertainment, a silent auction and raffle prizes. Entertainment will be provided by rising new vocalists Jody Bagley and Christy Phares, with accompaniment by Sally Brumfield.

By Miriam Raftery

Savor stargazing, a nature scavenger hunt, community bonfire and the bounties of nature—or cozy up to watch football in the clubhouse
 

By Dawn Celapino

November 11, 2010 (San Diego's East County)--'Tis the season for cakes, cookies, pies and a lot of food! The average person gains between 7 - 10 pounds from now until the end of the year. Along with the parties, dinners and social events comes the end of daylight savings time. People tend to get more sedate and eat more. Not a good combination!

November 8, 2010 (Flinn Springs) – Summers Past Herb Farm invites you to a holiday open house on Thursday, November 11 from 5 to 8 p.m.

Recipe courtesy of Home Made Simple (See our review of the Home Made Simple book in our San 

Diego Bookshelf section--and scroll down for this sweetly simple recipe.)

November 6, 2010 – Chutney, a sweet and spicy relish originally from India, was imported to merry old England in the 17th century, where it swiftly gained popularity. Jelly-like in consistency, chutney is customarily made with fruits, vinegar, and spices of East India.  Now you can brighten up your holiday table with these festive flavors!

November 6, 2010 (Alpine) -- Thanksgiving is just around the corner. If you’re a senior citizen, or know a senior who will be alone or housebound on Thanksgiving Day in Alpine, here's a service to be thankful for this holiday season.

 November 3, 2010 (La Mesa) -- Thanksgiving is coming and the people of the United Church of Christ of La Mesa (UCCLM) invite you to let Mama do the baking this year. Two members are helping Mama’s Kitchen raise money to provide nutritious meals for San Diego men, women and children affected by AIDS and cancer. You can help by purchasing a pumpkin, pecan, apple, or sugar-free apple pie for $20 ($15 is tax deductible).

October 29, 2010 (Ramona)--What could be spookier than a haunted hike in the woods?  Dos Picos CountyPark in Ramona is offering a haunted trail hike on Saturday, October 30th at 7:30 and 8 p.m.

The scary but kid-friendly trail hikes will include a moderate walk with some hills and uneven surfaces. Younger hikers must be accompanied by an adult. Everyone is encouraged to bring a flashlight.

October 27, 2010 (Borrego) – California Overland Desert Excursions invites you to learn about the spirits who roam the desert in a unique, overnight ghost tour on Saturday, October 30th. Spend the night next to a haunted cemetery near a historic stagecoach stop, or opt for an evening-only rate. Historians will relate true tales of people who met their demise along the Southern Overland Trail—and whose restless souls are said to still haunt the region.

Table Game Halloween-Themed Party on Oct. 30 to Feature Treats and Cash Giveaways

October 27, 2010 (Lakeside) – Barona Resort & Casino is getting in the Halloween spirit with the return of its popular Party Pit with a fun trick-or-treat theme. On Saturday, October 30 from 6 p.m. to midnight, table game players will have a chance to win prizes and cash.

October 9, 2010 (Alpine) – Lions, Tigers and Bears invites you to come spend a “wild and ghoulish night in the country” with Raja, Bakari, Conga and other wild creatures at this big cat rescue facility in Alpine October 29-30. Camp-outs sell out quickly, so call to reserve space at (619)659-8078.

Halloween event includes prizes for runners with best costumes

October 21, 2010 (El Cajon) – Up to 3,000 participants are expected to take part in a 5K “Mud Run” on October 31st. The charity fundraiser  takes off at Skyline Church, 11330 in La Mesa, raising money to benefit children’s programs with Sonshinehaven.org, programs offered by Skyline Sports, and Rescue Task Force, a world relief organization.

East County News

October 21, 2010 (Julian) -- On Sunday, October 31, at 5:00 p.m. Jeremy’s on the Hill California-Style Bistro teams up with Stone Brewing Company to host a five-course Beer Pairing. The event will feature local produce and ingredients, as well as specialty hops and at least one course featuring grass fed American bison from Star B Buffalo Ranch and Hops Farm.

Guests are invited to wear Halloween Costumes (if they dare….) and prizes will be awarded.