Story and photos by Nadin Abbott

June 20, 2012 (Jamul)-- The fire that started this afternoon around the Thousand Trails Campground damaged no structures, and burned about 30 acres. According to Mike Mohler, Public Information Officer for Cal Fire, it was "wind driven, with light fuel."

Early reports mistakenly informed media that the fire started in a structure, based on a caller who reported the fire and believed it to be in a structure.

By Miriam Raftery

June 17, 2012 (Lemon Grove)—It was a sweet victory for Lemon Grove Firefighters Saturday night, when driver Joe Lavigne climbed out of his smashed-up vehicle to claim his department’s trophy.  Lemon Grove entered two cars in the Firefighters’ Demolition Derby at the San Diego County Fair in Del Mar—and both made it into the final round.

 View our video of the final round by clicking above. 

 Update 4:05 p.m. - Forward spread of the fire has been halted, says Roxanne Provaznik at Cal Fire.

 Update 3:40 p.m. -- Firefighters are making good progress toward containment, Cal Fire reports.  Two air tankers have been dismissed.  

June 15, 2012 (El Cajon) – The Olaf Wieghorst Museum & Western Heritage Center, 131 Rea Ave, El Cajon will host an exhibition of nationally known local artists Grace Schlesier, Jack Jordan and Mark Martensen June 29 through August 29.  The opening night Meet the Artists Reception will be held on June 29 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.  Wine and light hors d’oeuvres will be served.

By Miriam Raftery

Government accused of illegally approving “ineligible” project that failed to meet minimum federal wind speed standards

Violations of other laws alleged, including discrimination against low-income residents

June 20, 2012 (Ocotillo) –A fourth lawsuit seeking to halt the Ocotillo Express wind facility has been filed in federal court.  The plaintiff in this case, Community Advocates for Renewable Energy Stewardship, filed suit yesterday against Pattern Energy, the U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management and top government officials.

The suit, which seeks a permanent enjoinment or halt to the project, differs from prior lawsuits filed by other groups on several fronts.

By Miriam Raftery

Updated June 21, 2012: The Old Fire is now 100% contained at a cost of approximately $2.3 million

June 20, 2012 (Campo) – The Old Fire has charred 995 acres and is now 90% contained.  One residence burned, as well as a recreational vehicle (RV).  Cause remains under investigation, however electrical and lighting have been ruled out. There are no electrical lines near the origin of the blaze on the Campo Indian Reservation, nor were there any reports of lightning, Cal Fire reports.

June 19, 2012 (Jamul)—The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled 8 to 1 that a lawsuit seeking to shut down a Michigan casino can go forward.

June 19, 2012 (Alpine) – The Alpine Education Foundation is offering Hogwarts Academy for grades K -8th beginning June 25 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

The program immerses the children in a world of wonder and imagination while the learn the science of astronomy, herbology, potions (science), riddles (language), chess (logic), care of magical creatures and ‘wizardry’ games.  A tour of Wright’s Field with a credentialed biologist/ornithologist is also on the agenda.

June 19, 2012 (Poway) – Taste of Our Towne will be held at the Poway Center for Performing Arts, 15498 Espola Road, Poway on June 23 beginning at 5:30 p.m.  The event includes live music performed by Gipsy Menco, wine from local wineries and signature dishes from favorite restaurants.  A silent auction, a live auction and dancing are part of the fun.

By Ellinoa Blake

June 19, 2012 (San Diego)--Recently I won a $48,000 scholarship funded by STOP2011, a Heartland Coalition project. This number represents more than a weight off my chest for college, however. It is the amount of debt each American owes if the United States national deficit was divided by the number of our citizens.

June 19, 2012 (San Diego)—“Our honey reputation continues to make history,” Deerhorn Valley Antler editor Kim Hamilton announced today.