December 9, 2010 (San Diego) – San Diego Police arrested Jorge Pando, 22, for impersonating a police officer. According to Sgt. Ray Battrick, Pando had been drinking at Vallartas Bar at 4125 El Cajon Blvd. around 1 a.m. when he told a woman that he was a police officer and insisted that she had to give him personal information. She refused, telling him her boyfriend was present, and Pando then flashed a badge twice.

December 10, 2010(La Mesa)--The City of La Mesa today announced plan to enhance its community notification system, coined La Mesa e-Gov, to encourage residents to keep informed and take steps to protect themselves in an emergency.

December 9, 2010 (Escondido) – A controlled burn has destroyed the Escondido home filled with explosives and chemicals used in bomb making. A bomb-arson team ignited the residence on via Scott via remote control shortly before 11 a.m. today.

The burn proceeded as planned, albeit with a later start time than previously announced.  A massive blaze swiftly consumed the home, punctuated by popping sounds likely caused by hand grenades and ammunition stored in the premises, Sheriff’s represented Jan Caldwell said.

December 9. 2010 (San Diego’s East County) -- Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is confirmed to appear with other dignitaries at a groundbreaking hosted by San Diego Gas & Electric Company (SDG&E) for Sunrise Powerlink slated for 11 a.m. today (originally set for 9 a.m.)

In response, the Protect Our Communiities Foundation is organizing a protest, calling the groundbreaking “premature” since three active lawsuits against Sunrise Powerlink are currently in the courts—any one of which could potentially halt the project.

December 8, 2010 (El Cajon)—A 15-year-old girl was abducted from the Wal-Mart at 13487 Camino Canada in El Cajon on Monday December 6th, San Diego Sheriff’s Department reports. Parolee David Lascelles has been arrested for allegedly using a gun to kidnap the victim, then drive her to Fiesta Island, where he reportedly raped her.

Photos courtesy of San Diego Sheriff Department

December 8, 2010 (Escondido) – A federal judge has denied a final-hour plea by accused bombmaker George Jakubec to halt the burning of the home he rented in Escondido. Authorities plan to proceed tomorrow morning with plans to burn down the residence and the massive stash of explosives and chemicals inside.

Council should say "no" on Dec. 14 to Walgreen's plan to sell alcohol

By Garry Davis

December 8, 2010 (El Cajon)--Earlier this year, a lot of us began our effort to revitalize a key business district in El Cajon by forming the Second Street Business Association – Alliance for a Better Community. What we hope to promote is a balanced mix of businesses that generate jobs and revenue for our local economy.

And who am I kidding, we also obviously want more customers for businesses.

“Balance” is the key word.

By Ray M. Wong

December 8, 2010 (Lakeside)--The school doesn’t look that impressive: A waist-high, chain-link fence separates a gravel parking lot from the school, a cluster of portable structures But appearances can be deceiving. River Valley Charter, a small public school in Lakeside serving 7th to 12th graders, has been the highest rated high school in San Diego County for seven years running.

Local representatives weigh in with their views

By Miriam Raftery

December 6, 2010 (Washington D.C.) – Congress is under fire to take action before Bush-era tax cuts expire at year’s end. Republicans want to see all tax extended, but have opposed extending unemployment benefits, which also expire this month. Democrats wanted to extend tax cuts for the middle class but eliminate tax cuts for the wealthy in order to reduce the deficit, and also extend benefits for the unemployed.  But Democrats could not pass their plan due to opposition from Republicans, who contend the wealthy need tax cuts to create jobs.

Now, President Barack Obama is pushing a compromise measure that would include a mix of new tax cuts, including a payroll tax cut and individual tax breaks, while also restoring some estate tax revenues.  

I-15 to shut down; shelter to open for evacuees

Map of traffic plan during burn

 

December 7, 2010 (Alpine) -- On December 16, 17 & 21, the East County Toy and Food Drive will provide toys and a Christmas meal to over 1,500 East County families who have signed up with us requesting assistance. “To do this we need your help. We desperately need toys and financial donations to make this possible,” says Capt. Darren Norton with the East County Salvation Army.

Viejas will host Stoney and Rob's Holiday Party and Auction in the Viejas Dreamcatcher Lounge this Wednesday evening, December 8th from 6-9 p.m. to raise money for the toy and food drive.

By Charlavan Baker Hart

December 7, 2010 (El Cajon)--I thought if you didn’t see very well you go to the eye doctor and have yourself checked. I was braced for learning I had a cataract forming and would need an operation.

December 7, 2010 (El Cajon) – Two men stole cash and phones from the Cricket Wireless Store at 1110 Broadway, El Cajon Police report. Police responded to a call around 6:10 p.m. from a witness who said she saw two masked men running from the store, according to Lt. Tim Henton.