Tree-lighting and ice show extravaganza  light up the night tonight

November 11, 2011 (Alpine) -- Skate into the holidays on Southern California’s largest outdoor ice rink, now open at Viejas Outlet Center in Alpine. The  nearly 10,000-square-foot rink, one of our region’s most popular winter playgrounds, will remain open through Jan. 8, 2012.

The season kicks off with a lighting of the Viejas holiday tree at 6 p.m. on Friday, November 11, followed by a free Extravaganza on Ice Show with professional skaters--plus a visit from Santa Claus.

By Billy Ortiz

View our video adventure: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBqJStFzQD8&feature=player_profilepage

May 20, 2011 (San Diego’s East County) -- On any day in this beautiful place in San Diego’s East County, you will find para-gliders--hang-gliders sailing the winds high above the El Monte Valley. Take off point is roughly 1,800 feet above sea level and is located in Blossom Valley, just South of I-8 and Dunbar Lane in El Cajon. I have often seen them soaring as high as 4,000 feet above El Cajon Mountain (known locally as El Capitan for its resemblance to a Yosemite landmark) accompanied by raptors of every kind.

Story, photos and video by Billy Ortiz

November 17, 2010 (Alpine)—Far off the beaten path in the back country of east San Diego County, nestled in a hidden glen, is a special rehabilitation center for injured and orphaned birds of prey. Sky Hunters is a raptor education facility geared toward public information, preservation and rehabilitation of birds of prey. Scroll down for details and to view our video.