By Miriam Raftery

February 18, 2017 (San Diego’s East County) – San Diego Supervisors have rejected plans for a renewable energy overlay zone feasibility study, which would have cost an estimated half million dollars. The action came during a hearing on a Comprehensive Renewable Energy Plan.

Donna Tisdale, Chair of the Boulevard Planning Group and founder of Backcountry Against Dumps (BAD), voiced relief at the Supervisors’ rejection of the overlay zone.  “A renewable energy overlay zone would fast track any projects located within the designated boundaries. Based on some previous information, we had concerns that a renewable energy overlay zone would be placed over the Boulevard Planning Area and/or the Jacumba Planning Area,” she told ECM.

East County News Service

February 17, 2017 (El Cajon) -- The Voices of the City Choir will appear in concert at the El Cajon Library, located at 201 E. Douglas Avenue, Saturday, March 4, at 2:00 p.m.  The 30-voice ensemble, composed of homeless singers, will present a wide-ranging program of ballads, jazz, and gospel infused pop songs, backed up by a professional, 3-piece rhythm section.

East County News Service

February 17, 2017 (La Mesa) – The Grossmont Healthcare District’s Dr. William C. Herrick Community Health Care Library, 9001 Wakarusa St. in La Mesa, will host a free program on “Coloring for Stress Relief” from 10 to 11 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 22. The program is part of the library’s “Wellness Wednesday” series, normally held on the fourth Wednesday of the month. Admission is free. Light refreshments will be served. Advance RSVP is not necessary. Handouts will be available.

By Andy Tolley, County of San Diego Communications Office

February 16, 2017 (Lakeside) - The County cut the ribbon Thursday for the new Helix Flume Trail in Lakeside, and a group took an inaugural hike on the 0.8-mile path. It may be short in distance, but it’s long on history, with signs that share the story of early water transportation in San Diego. It also feature spectacular views of Lake Jennings and El Cajon Mountains.

The trailhead is located at 14003-14023 El Monte Road in Lakeside.

Source: City of El Cajon

February 16, 2017 (El Cajon) – The City of El Cajon has announced five public workshops on redistricting set for February 22, 23 and 28, as well as March 1 and April 18.  All are from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.   See location details at the bottom of the article. 

By Miriam Raftery

February 16, 2017 (La Mesa) - An orange tabby cat struck by a vehicle February 3rd on La Mesa Blvd. near Rosehedge Drive was rescued by a passing motorist and provided emergency veterinary care.  "Diego," as the lucky cat has now been named, may have used up one of his nine lives, but fortunately he's healed and will be heading to a new home tomorrow.

By Gig Connaughton, County of San Diego Communications Office

February 16, 2017 (San Diego) - Rains, possibly heavy at times, are heading back to San Diego County in the coming days, according to weather officials.

Which means that if you haven’t done it already, it’s a good time to stock up on free sand and bags to protect your home and property.

By Miriam Raftery

February 15, 2017 (Lemon Grove) – A suspect killed in a February 7^th home invasion in Lemon Grove has been identified as a juvenile, 15-year-old Derrick Harris Jr.

The Sheriff’s Department seeks public help to identify a second suspect who remains at large, says Lieutenant Kenneth Nelson with the San Diego Sheriff’s Homicide Detail.

East County News Service

February 15, 2017 (Spring Valley) - You’re invited to Spring Into Healthy Living on March 15^th from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at the McGrath Family YMCA (12006 Campo Road) in Spring Valley. The (free) health and wellness fair for seniors will include free health screenings, speakers and information on how to avoid scams, driver safety and fire safety, and more.

East County News Service

February 15, 2017 (Spring Valley) — Young Adult Theatre (YAT) bring The Jungle Book for Kids to life March 2^nd through 12^th at the Encore! Theatre (9620 Campo Rd.) in Spring Valley.  The jungle is jumpin' with a jazzy beat in this special adaptation from the classic Disney animated film, featuring a host of colorful characters and your favorite songs from the movie.

By Jonathan Goetz

February 14, 2017 (Lemon Grove) -- In November 2016, Lemon Grove voters approved Measure V, allowing for sale of medical marijuana in Lemon Grove. Dispensaries will be allowed in certain sections of the city with a Conditional Use Permit (CUP).

East County News Service

February 14, 2017 (La Mesa) -- Donald and Marilyn Gustavson of La Mesa savored a trip to the Super Bowl in Houston, after Donald was named grand prize winner in the “From Sofa to Stadium” Visa Super Bowl LI Sweepstakes for Union Bank. A Union Bank customer for almost 40 years and a huge football fan, Gustavson was thrilled to win.

East County News Service

February 14, 2017 (Campo) – A new backcountry healthcare clinic currently under construction in Campo will have $1 million for new medical equipment thanks to the Grossmont Healthcare District (GHD), an East County regional public agency that supports various health-related community programs and services in San Diego’s East County region.

East County News Service

February 13, 2017 (Lakeside) - With Zika and West Nile Virus in the news, now is a perfect time to get educated.  San Diego County Vector Control's Michelle Christina will lend her expertise on these fascinating insects and how to live with them at a free program hosted by the Lakeside River Park Conservancy (12108 Industry Rd., Lakeside) on Saturday, Feb. 25^th at 10 a.m.

Story, photos and video by Billy Ortiz (Lakeside)

February 12, 2017 (Lakeside) -- The Lakeside Optimists are a great group helping out our community.  Yesterday they were at Lake Jennings in Lakeside for the annual "Kids Day", where all kids under 10 were allowed to fish for free at Lake Jennings.