By Gayle Early

June 1, 2009 (El Cajon)—Six art pieces selected from each of 87 participating middle and elementary schools were on display at the 19th Annual Kids Art Show last month at Westfield Parkway. Cookies accompanied a reception in the mall, just around the corner from Macy’s. Each artist received a blue ribbon, including Sophia Coseip, whose artwork is shown in the photo above.

June 1, 2009 (La Mesa) -- Jeff Gray, DDS, recently led a team from his La Mesa office on a 10-day humanitarian mission to provide dental care to people living in rural villages in the Dominican Republic. Originator of Smiles for Life, an annual fundraiser for children’s charities supported by more than 800 dentists nationwide, Gray has committed half of the SFL funds raised this year by his office to the Dominican project. Smiles for Life continues through the end of June.

June 1, 2009 (El Cajon)-- The Rancho San Diego Jamul Chamber of Commerce is having its second annual golf tournament and networking event on June 26th. “Come join the fun. Last year’s event was a blast and this year is going to top it,” pledged Valerie Harrison, president. Guests who don’t golf or can’t attend are urged to sponsor a wounded veteran to play by calling the Chamber office at 670-8244.

June 1, 2009 (La Mesa) -- Step back in time to those lazy, crazy carefree ‘50s days at the La Mesa Village Back to the 50s Car Show. The event runs every Thursday evening between June 4th and August 27th.

This Summer Event draws more than 2,500 spectators. Classic cars line La Mesa Boulevard and compete in the weekly contest. The car show runs from 5 to 8 p.m. Visitors can also enjoy live music with DJ Jumpin' Jack Flash, shopping and dining every Thursday night until 9 pm in the Village.

June 1, 2009 (La Mesa)--If your household has hazardous wastes, the City of La Mesa and California Integrated Waste Management Board have teamed up to offer free pickup and disposal on June 6, July 18, August 29, October 10 and November 21. The City is also giving away a free nontoxic thermometer to any resident who brings in a mercury thermometer.

Dr. Farouk Al Nasser, an Iraq native and U.S. citizen, will speak on conditions in Iraq at the La Mesa Community Center on Wednesday, June 3rd. “Dr. Nasser will help us understand the situation on the ground in Iraq; he is in contact with his extended family of more than 400 living in Iraq,” said Linda Armacost, president of the La Mesa-Foothills Democratic Club, host of the meeting, which is open to people in all political parties. Nasser will provide information and perspectives on the Iraq War not found in the mainstream U.S. media, she added.