December 7, 2009 (Alpine) – San Diego East  Visitors Bureau celebrated the grand opening last week of its new office in the Viejas Outlet Center in Alpine. The site is an official California Welcome Center, providing information for tourists on attractions in East County and the San Diego region.
 

“This is the first California Welcome Center ever opened on tribal lands,” said Charlie Brown, director of Viejas Community Relations.

By Miriam Raftery

December 7, 2009 (Spring Valley) – “The banjo is America’s own instrument,” said Carolina Bridges, director of public relations at Deering Banjo. True, and Deering is America’s banjo company—the only U.S. maker that handcrafts its instruments using all American-made parts, Bridges said during a tour of Deering’s Spring Valley factory at the company’s holiday open house on Saturday. “It’s like a good cake—we make it all from scratch.”

Deering’s attention to quality has attracted top names in the music world—not only in bluegrass, jazz and country music, but also star performers in rock and roll. But it all started right here in East County 34 years ago, when Greg and Gail Deering began making banjos in their garage, stringing instruments on their porch and selling them to local music stores.

December 6, 2009 (San Diego’s East County) -- The National Weather Service has issued an urgent high wind watch for Monday and Monday night due to a strong winter storm. Strong gusty winds in mountains, valleys, coastal and desert areas will have potential to cause damage to trees and power lines.

December 6, 2009 (San Diego) -- Cal Fire has provided this poem filled with tips for keeping your family safe during  holiday celebrations. 

CHRISTMAS POEM

by Darleen Hayden

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
but alas and alack ‘twas no fire screen there!
A few feet away stood the holiday tree
so majestic, so regal, and as dry as could be . . .

By Penny Raftery

Photos by Miriam Raftery and Leon Thompson

December 5, 2009 (El Cajon) – It was a frisky romp through Wells Park this morning, where I joined a pack of other dogs and their owners in the first-ever “Jingle Paws!” walk to benefit El Cajon’s Animal Shelter. Much to my delight, I discovered even more entertaining activities—such as a canine agility course, bobbing for hotdogs, vendors selling every imaginable gift item any dog could want, and even a visit from Santa Paws…er, Claus.

December 5, 2009 (El Cajon) -- The City of El Cajon Recreation Department is offering a safe and fun camp to engage the kids during the winter break. Hillside Center will be hosting “Winter Wonderland” Day Camp for ages 6-12 on December 21, 22, 23, 28, 29 and 30 from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm.

Courtesy of Hacienda de las Rosas Winery

December 5, 2009 (Ramona)--Hacienda de las Rosas Winery, located in Ramona, also has a tasting room in Old Town. Hacienda Sangria has been served at many special holidays in Old Town state park and is a favorite of many guests. It will be served every weekend through the holiday season.

“We receive lots of requests for this recipe,” says co-owner Tammy Holzauer. “Use it and enjoy with your friends!”

Recipe ingredients and instructions:

 SNOW LEVEL COULD BLANKET AREAS DOWN TO 4,000 FEET

By Miriam Raftery

December 4, 2009 (San Diego) – A white Christmas appears likely for San Diego's mountain communities.  Wet weather is forecast for Southern California next week, with heavy snowfall possible in mountain areas from a series of storms, the National Weather Service predicts.

Low-energy holiday lights set garden aglow; children's activities include cookie decorating

December 4, 2009 (El Cajon) – The public is invited to attend this year’s Holiday in the Garden event at the Water Conservation Garden, 12122 Cuyamaca College Dr. West, in El Cajon on Friday, December 4, 5-8pm. The Garden’s meandering paths and exhibits will glow with thousands of energy saving LED lights, courtesy of San Diego Gas & Electric company.

City to hold public scoping meeting Wed. Dec. 9 on proposed 18-story project

By Kristin Hobbs-Kjaero

December 4, 2009 (El Cajon) -- The City of El Cajon has been working on a master plan for the Civic Center area that will include major renovations to the East County Performing Arts Center (ECPAC) including closure of the theater for up to two years. The City iwill be hosting two community forums to share goals of the renovation and to receive community input on desired renovations to the theater.

La Mesa’s historic shopping district offers a Victorian-style holiday celebration, rides, bonfires, specialty boutiques and unique gifts

December 4, 2009 (La Mesa) – For two days and nights, La Mesa’s historic downtown village transforms into a Victorian winter wonderland complete with strolling minstrels, carolers, street entertainers and several stages. Bonfires will fill La Mesa Boulevard, where you can roast chestnuts over an open fire or delight in a horse-drawn carriage ride. You’ll also find carnival rides, puppet shows, and Santa Claus.

December 3, 2009 (El Cajon) -- Breaking Boundaries” is an annual dance concert choreographed and performed by Grossmont College dance students.  The Fall 2009 concert will showcase a variety of dance genres including ballet, jazz, modern, and hip hop. 

December 1, 2009 – Julian, CA: Many families are in crisis this year.  To help families provide a happy holiday for the family, Jeremy’s on the Hill, California Style Bistro is sponsoring a toy and food drive for families in Julian in conjunction with Pathways, a non-profit student and family support center that works with disadvantaged families in Julian.