By Paul Kruze

A Special Report for East County Magazine

February 26, 2013 (El Cajon)--The City of El Cajon may once again be walking down a rocky road of church and state separation issues with the announced participation of the El Cajon Police and Fire Departments as “special guests” at the groundbreaking of Rock Church’s newest location on Saturday, March 9 near Parkway Plaza on Jackman street. The invitation also includes “prayer and worship” at the newly-leased space.

By Jake Christie

February 13, 2013 (La Mesa)—At its March meeting, La Mesa’s City Council will take up issues raised by residents  in a pair of community meetings last month. This is a tradition that has gone on for five years. 

Council members listened to the questions, complaints, and comments of concerned citizens at the meetings held January 15 and 17 in auditoriums at Lemon Avenue Elementary School and the La Mesa Middle School, where the crowds were standing-room -only at times.

January 9, 2013 (San Diego)--Mayor Bob Filner has announced his staffing team at City Hall. The appointments reflect San Diego’s diversity: over 50% are women, 38% Latino, 21% African-American, 4% Asian Pacific Islander as well as staff from the lesbian, gay, bisexual/transgender community.

“When I campaigned for Mayor, I pledged that everyone would have a seat at the table, and that includes in my administration. I am proud to lead this team of talented and dedicated women and men. Together we will work hard for the citizens of San Diego,” said Mayor Bob Filner, who also released salaries of his staffers as part of his pledge toward transparency.

By Bill Weaver

October 29, 2012 (San Diego) –San Diego is home to immigrants and refugees from around the world.  The Mano A Mano Foundation has provided the following list of scholarships available to non-citizens as well as citizens and AB 540 students. AB540 is a California bill passed on October 12, 2001 that allows undocumented students who meet certain requirements to pay in-state tuition instead of out-of-state tuition in California's higher institutions. For more information see ab540.com.