July 2, 2011 (Crest) -- For the past 65 years, the small town of Crest has hosted a 4th of July parade that's like a scene from a Norman Rockwell painting. 

Festivities include floats, decorated horses, wagons, and bikes. A young girl and young boy are the reigning royalty. Sometimes there are bands from schools. Often you'll see the Lawnchair Brigade of ladies marching with folding lawn chairs, spinning them around their heads, and sitting down on them as they parade. People line up along the street wearing red,white, and blue, waving flags as dignitaries drive by.

Benjamin Franklin's descendent helps invent plan to keep Crest residents safe during emergencies

March 20, 2011 (Crest) — Benjamin Franklin discovered the power of electricity, reportedly by flying a kite during an electrical storm. Now his descendant, Kandhy Franklin, is helping bring an electric generator to Crest, harnessing her famous ancestor's discovery to power her community in case of wildfire. 

The Crest Fire Safe Council has been awarded a San Diego County Neighborhood Reinvestment Grant written by Franklin and community volunteer Faith Berry.  Funds will be used to purchase a generator for a community clubhouse, providing emergency response during disasters and rolling brownouts.