Alpine Chamber Magazine - Winter 2019

ALPINE

FIND EVERYTHING ON YOUR LIST

WINTER 2019

Explore fabulous boutiques & designer outlets

LET US DO THE COOKING

Dine with family & friends without the hassle

A PAYCHECK OF THE HEART

A nonprofit on a mission to spread joy to seniors

Local Postal Customer

A PUBLICATION OF THE ALPINE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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free BUFFET

for new members Viejas Casino & Resort ∙ 5000 Willows Road ∙ Alpine, CA 91901 ∙ 619.445.5400

Guests must be at least 21 years of age to enter. Guests must be at least 21 years of age to drink alcoholic beverages. Guests under 21 years of age are permitted in The Buffet, Ginger Noodle Bar, Baron Long Bar & Grill, The Café or Daily Roast only, but must be accompanied by an adult. Guests must be at least 18 years of age to enter Viejas Bingo. Families are welcome at the Viejas Outlets and the Viejas Hotel. Please play responsibly. For help with problem gambling, call 800.426.2537

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Viejas.com

2019

T R AV E L G U I D E

Alpine View Lodge A Jewel in Your Own Backyard Quality Assisted Living, Memory Care and Hospice

Your family deserves the finest in elder care!

• Patios, gardens and walkways are just a step away, yet within secured grounds, surrounded by beautiful Alpine views and spacious lawns.

• A variety of enticing activities occur all day, every day in a program filled with life’s joys.

• Complimentary tours, luncheons and on-site assessment program provide a sense of our charm and our service experience. Office is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

• Owner operated by the Cioffi family for over 30 years, we offer short-term respite stays, assisted-living, dementia and hospice care in an open and airy country setting.

• Furnished semi-private rates from $3,850 per month. Private rooms from $5,000 per month.

Alpine View Lodge Assisted Living, Memory Care and Hospice Care

973 Arnold Way, Alpine, CA 91901 Phone 619-445-5201 • Fax 619-445-5844 Visit us at www.alpineviewlodge.com State license number 374-600-694

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The Alpine Chamber of Commerce would like to thank the following businesses and organizations for their continued support.

— Chairman's Circle —

1620 Alpine Blvd, #208 Alpine, CA 91901 alpinechamber.com (619) 445-2722

— Gold Level —

Alpine Creek Town Center • California Bank & Trust • Cox Communications • Edward Jones • Golden Acorn Casino • Greywood Kennels • Grossmont Healthcare District • Kamps Propane of San Diego • Mercy Medical Transportation • San Diego Gas & Electric • Sycuan Casino & Golf Resort • U.S. Small Business Administration

— Silver Level —

@VisitAlpine Follow us on Social Media!

Established in 1961, the Alpine Chamber of Commerce's mission is to advance the commercial, industrial, civic, agricultural and general interest and prosperity of the communities we serve.

The Chamber is an independent, non-profit organization serving small businesses in east San Diego County with nearly 200 members.

It is only through the support of our partners and the generous participation of our advertisers that this publication is possible. We ask that you support them with your business and let them know their support of the Chamber helped in your purchasing selection.

Chamber Staff Alex Ward, Executive Director Lori Bledsoe, Membership & Events Vonnie Sanchez, Project Administrator

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Alpine Artistic Florist • Alpine Castle • Alpine Dentistry • Alpine Landscape Materials • Alpine Mobile Home Estates • Alpine Orthodontics • Alpine Physical Therapy & Wellness Center • Alpine Premier Properties • Alpine Ranch CrossFit • Alpine Shell Station • Alpine Special Treatment Center • Alpine Twin Plaza • Alpine Urgent Medicine/California Mobile Physicians • Alpine View Lodge • Alpine Village Apts. • Alsop & Assoc. Ins. Agency • Armor Home & Landscape Pest Control • Ayres Lodge Alpine • Barons Market • Casino Inn • Comfort Keepers • Country Pet Hospital • Country Wine & Spirits • County Motor Parts Co. (Napa) • Data Disposal • Davic Construction • Diamond Environmental Services • EDCO Disposal Service • Good Samaritan Retirement • Julian Charter School/Pine Valley • Keller Williams Realty • Liberty Mechanical • Mary Kay Cosmetics • Meadow Woods at Alpine • Mediterraneo Italian Bistro & Bar • Mountain Hempire • Mtn. Health & Comm.

Services • On Line Bookkeeping & Tax Service • Padre Dam Mun. Water District • Parker Properties • Postal Annex of Alpine • Quest Church of San Diego • REACH Air Medical Services • Republic Services • Robert Soto Insurance Agency - Farmers • Saddles In Service • Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve • Summit at Alpine Apartments • Tractor Supply Co. • Village Carpets/Flooring America • Waste Management

— Bronze Level —

Al Panchos Restaurant • Alpine Beer Company • Alpine Community Center • Alpine Computer • Alpine Education Foundation • Alpine Equipment Rentals • Alpine Gardens & Gifts • Alpine Historical Society • Alpine Library Friends Association • Alpine Pageant Ambassadors • Alpine Paving • Alpine Pepper Tree Farm & Vineyard • Alpine Regional Center • Alpine Taco Shop • Alpine Union School District • Alpine Woman's Club • Anytime Septic Service • Back Country Land Trust • Back Country Mechanical • California Options Real Estate • Carlette Anderson, Author • Century Plumbing Company • Children's Nature Retreat Foundation • Clayco Electric • Clean Sweep Janitoral Services • Dave & Reema Real Estate Services • Descanso Town Hall • East County Pump Service • East County Transitional Living Center • Family Auto Service • German American Society • Granite Lion Cellars • Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District • Jan Morse • Keli Jo Cadenhead • Keller Williams • Kiwanis Club of Alpine • Lantern Crest Senior Living • Lemon Grove Rod & Gun Club • Lions Tigers and Bears • Lundy Insurance Services • Mtn. Empire Unified School District • My Boys and Me Window Washing • Pacific Southwest Railway Museum • Peoples Escrow • Ryan De Prizio • San Diego Estates • Screenmobile of El Cajon • Seamless Rain Gutters • Sky Falconry • Soroptimist International of Alpine • Southern Indian Health Council • St.Madeleine Sophie's Center • Stax Up Alpine Blvd & Tavern Road • Susan Hobbs • The Canvas Makers • The Tag Stop • Thryv • US Promo Solutions • VFW Bert Fuller Post 9578

CONTENTS Winter Issue - 2019

Let Us Do the Cooking

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From Italian to Barbeque and nearly everything in between, Alpine has a dish for every palate!

Find Everything on Your List in Alpine

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Alpine is home to fabulous boutiques, unique finds, and great designer brands.

A Paycheck of the Heart

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A homegrown nonprofit offers gifts and fellowship to a vulnerable group during the holiday season.

The 24th Annual Parade of Lights & Snow Festival

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The award-winning Alpine event returns this year bigger than ever!

Ice Rink at Viejas Now Open

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Southern California's largest outdoor skating rink returns for the season!

Ring in the New Year Like Gatsby

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The most glamorous New Year’s Eve event takes place here, at Viejas!

A Pioneer Christmas

Above: A dazzling display from the 23rd Annual Parade of Lights.

Cover: Envato Elements

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A lot has changed in Alpine since the late 1800s, but what remains the same is the spirit of family and togetherness.

Community Calendar The best list of entertainment, volunteer opportunities, and other major events.

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Alpine Artistic Florist 619-445-7974 ~ We Deliver EVERY DAY GIVING, EVENTS, WEDDINGS, SYMPATHY 1730 Alpine Blvd, #103 ~ Your Local Florist For Over 10 Years

There’s a new

in town

WINTER IS HERE AND WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED! IN STOCK NOW Snow Chains | Tractor Supplies | Generators

LOCALLY OWNED. NATIONALLY KNOWN. THE ONE AND ONLY AUTO PARTS SHOP SERVING ALPINE

County Motor Parts 1347 Tavern Rd Alpine, CA 91909 (619) 445-6242

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

(619) 390-6304 Call about our NEW customer specials!

BBB A+ Accredited Business” 16245 Alpine Blvd., Alpine, CA 91901

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LET US DO THE COOKING

This Holiday season, Alpine is serving up some delicious specials to mark the occassion. From Italian to Barbeque and nearly everything in between, Alpine has a dish for every palate! favorite place to meet for an afternoon pick-me-up, a luxurious dinner, or a Sunday Brunch!

The Grove Steakhouse Located at Viejas Casino & Resort, The Grove is not your average steakhouse.

The quality of the food, the wide variety of menu options, and the inviting ambiance are just a few of the factors that helped The Grove receive the prestigious AAA Four Diamond Award. Considered top shelf in fine dining by many, The Grove is the ideal venue for your next special occasion or formal night-out.

The attention to detail and gourmet selections will make your dining experience at The Grove a pleasure long remembered. Indulge in an exciting menu sure to satisfy and inspire you to return again and again.

If you want to enjoy time with a group of friends, their friendly bar is a great place to gather, laugh and appreciate some of the finer things in life, whether that is a cold beer from their selection of 25 different brews, some on tap, or an elegant glass of your choice of wine.

You could also order your favorite cocktail and their skilled and smiling staff will serve you right.

1347 Tavern Rd, Ste 32 Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 445-9902 mediterraneobistro.com

Alpine Beer Company Pub Meats are smoked daily, and all dishes are made from scratch. Guests can dine inside or enjoy the fresh Alpine

air on the outdoor garden patio. All your favorite Alpine beers are on tap, along with a great lineup of rotating guest beers.

The Pub can accommodate private parties of up to 200 guests. They also offer pick-up catering packages for your next large gathering.

1347 Tavern Rd, Ste 2 Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 445-2337 alpinebeerco.com/the-pub (Continued on page 8)

5000 Willows Rd Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 445-5400 viejas.com/dining

Mediterraneo Bistro Fine dining in Alpine is as close as Mediterraneo Italian Bistro. The Croce family has been serving Alpine delicious family recipes for over twenty years and have grown to be a

mediterraneobistro.com

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(Continued from page 7)

Alpine Premier Properties alpinecountryhomes.com (619) 445-6246 | 1411 Rock Terrace, Alpine, CA 91901

What sets Russ & Dawn August apart from competitors is their emphasis on service and vast level of experience and knowledge of the Alpine real estate market. They are progressive and aggressive in marketing their listings. CalBRE #00612394 & #00612455.

Descanso Junction

In these days of fast food, quick service, and hurry-and-get-it-done, we can get quite nostalgic for times when life's pace was slower and quieter; when cooking and eating were family activities that served to nourish the heart and relationships as well as the body. Descanso Junction Restaurant strives to recreate this atmosphere for busy families, without having to do the dishes afterward.

Ginger Noodle Bar

Ginger Noodle Bar features classic and contemporary Asian fare in a comfortable and modern setting. Located on property at Viejas Casino & Resort, the restaurant has modern contemporary design with an organic and natural influence.

Guests can dine on traditional soups like Pho and Ramen or delicious appetizers such as Filipino chicken skewers or spring rolls. Of the specialty dishes, try the scallion ginger grilled lobster served with Asian slaw. It's a unique blend of flavors!

Descanso Junction Catering also offers catering services for events from on-site full service to self-serve buffet style BBQ. 8306 Highway 79 Descanso, CA 91916 (619) 659-2199 descansojunction.com

5000 Willows Rd Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 659-1995 viejas.com/dining

PARADE OF LIGHTS GO-TO SPOTS VFW Post 9578 | www. vfw9578.com | (619) 445-6040 844 Tavern Road, Alpine CA 91901

These fabulous restaurants are convenienetly located along the Parade Route.

Al Pancho's

Bert Fuller VFW Post 9578 has been part of the Alpine community for over 45 years! Our Post welcomes all veterans and guests from the public. Our spacious west-facing, enclosed deck with spectacular views, is ideal for your next event!

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Country Wine & Spirits

Alpine Taco Shop

Proud to maintain a positive reputation in the community, and they strive to offer top customer service, food quality, and affordability.

Their menu of deli sandwiches is made with Boar's Head meats and fresh bread. They also have a great selection of Thrifty Ice Creams.

Serving Alpine for 27 years, they are featuring a special on street tacos, hot cocoa, coffee, and donuts during the annual Parade of Lights.

2139 Alpine Blvd Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 659-8987 alpanchos.com

1738 Alpine Blvd, Ste 201 Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 445-0535 cwspirits.com

1903 Alpine Blvd Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 445-8907 alpinetacoshop.com â—Š

Mercy Medical Transportation | www.mercymedtrans.com (760) 751-9797 | 27350 Valley Center Rd, Valley Ctr, CA 92082

Mercy Medical Transportation has been providing advanced life support, 9-1-1 services to suburban, rural, and wilderness communities since 1994. Mercy is proud to serve Alpine and the San Diego back country communties!

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FIND EVERYTHING ON YOUR LIST IN ALPINE Alpine is home to fabulous boutiques, unique finds, and great designer brands.

Whether you realize it or not, when you shop local you are individually stimulating the local economy with your support and in turn, helping shape our community's unique character and personality.

This holiday season, we encourage you to explore the many boutiques and stores to find that perfect gift for everyone on your list.

Seek + Gather

Want to shop and provide assistance to families in need?

Seek + Gather offers clothing, accessories, and home goods with 100% of the net proceeds going towards health and social services. This nonprofit afilliated boutique has an excellent array styles and looks.

1730 Alpine Blvd, Ste 120 Alpine, CA 91901 (858) 435-4596 seekandgather.com

Premier Sports Outlet

Alpine's best outfitter for those who love to play hard, Premier Sports Outlet provides top quality action sports and lifestyle apparel and accessories at an affordable price.

2507 Alpine Blvd Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 722-4244 premiersportsoutlet.com 10

Alpine Garden & Gifts

For those looking to spruce up their garden, Alpine Garden & Gifts will delight with their selection of native plants, succulents, and yard art. With over twenty full time vendors, their artisan creations are sure to please. Hand-made Jewelry and Greeting Cards, Carved Stone Quail, repurposed items, great gift idea's and rare finds.

2442 Alpine Blvd Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 452-3535 alpinegardenandgifts.com

Chic Boutique

Hand made dreamcatchers are a signature item at Chic Boutique alongside boots, belts, and jewlery. Also featuring

high-end and hard-to-find resale items, this boutique sources its stock from the finest vendors.

2175 Arnold Way Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 813-9393 thehippiefront.etsy.com

Ruff Life Dog Boutique

Find something fabulous for your four-legged family members at Ruff Life Dog Boutique with everything from leashes to toys to apparel.

Celebrate the Season in a Home You Love

Farmers Insurance - Robert Soto | (619) 722-6001 | 1730 Alpine Blvd, Suite 119, Alpine, CA 91901

FHA · USDA · VA · Conventional · REVERSE · Refinance The home you love. The financing you need.

Call today to get started.

Chris Wiley

Branch Manager NMLS #: 240137 cwiley@primeres.com

Kelli Kruel

Loan Officer NMLS #: 222434 kkruel@primeres.com

(619) 722-1303 PRMI NMLS: 3094. PRMI NMLS 3094. PRMI is an Equal Housing Lender. Some products and services may not be available in all states. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. Programs, rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change and are subject to borrower(s) qualification. This is not a commitment to lend. Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act 4130403. 2124 Arnold Way - Alpine, CA 91901

2514 Alpine Blvd, Ste B Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 987-5996 rufflifedogboutique.com

As your local Farmers® agent, I help identify the insurance coverage that best fits your needs. If your homeowners policy has been cancelled or you bought a home and are in need of insurance to close escrow, contact me for your insurance needs. Lic #0H24951

Postal Annex

To ensure all your gifts and cards arrive on time, swing

by Postal Annex and their friendly staff will help you ship anywhere in the world. They also feature an assortment of amazing gifts including home decor, knickknacks, holiday items, and more. advice for the experienced owner adding to their 2710 Alpine Blvd K collection.

Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 659-8082 2560 Alpine Blvd #2 postalannex.com Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 445-2327 Right to Bear right2bear.net For the sportsman in your life stop-by Right to Bear for Alpine Ride Shop all your hunting needs. They Adventure seekers and provide friendly service for cycling enthusiasts can get first time buyers and quality outfitted at Alpine Ride Shop.

Al Panchos Mexican Restaurant www.alpanchos.com | (619) 6598987 | 2139 Alpine Blvd, Alpine, CA 91901

They carry mountain bikes, BMX, skateboards, scooters, sunglasses, and other apparel.

They also provide equipment repair and tune-ups for bicycles.

2218 Alpine Blvd Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 722-7133 alpinerideshop.com (Continued on page 12)

Al Pancho's is proud to maintain a positive reputation in the community, and they strive to offer top customer service, food quality, and affordability. Happy Hour 2-5pm M-F. Lunch special Monday-Friday for $7.95.

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(Continued from page 11)

Viejas Outlets

We’re not the largest grocery store. We’re not the fanciest. But we try out every single thing before we put it on our shelves. So when you try something new at Barons - we hope you’re pleasantly surprised :)

1347 Tavern Road Alpine, CA 91901 619.445.5600

BaronsMarket.com

Market Hours: 8am - 9pm Everyday, Except Holidays

Take your time ambling about soothing cascades and artisan-crafted sculptures, all amid a leafy green, family-friendly environment that’s sure to relax. And just in time for the season guests can also enjoy Southern California's largest ice skating rink!

Viejas Outlets is home to a great assortment of outlet and retail stores including, Carter’s Children’s Wear, Charlotte Russe, Chico’s, COACH, Daniel’s Jewelers, dressbarn, Eddie Bauer, Famous Footwear Outlet, Gap Outlet, Gathered, Guess Factory Store, Kitchen Collection, L’eggs/Hanes/ Bali/Playtex, Levi’s Outlet, MICHAEL KORS, Native Dreams Day Spa, Naturalizer, Nike Clearance Store, OshKosh B’gosh, Polo Ralph Lauren, Skechers, Sunglass Hut, Tommy Hilfiger, Vans Shoes, and Wilsons Leather.

5005 Willows Rd Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 659-2070 viejas.com For the LOVE Gift Boutique If you are looking for something unexpected, browse For the LOVE Gift Boutique. With numerous local artists and craftspeople displaying their wares, everything at this cute shop has a story.

You are sure to be delighted by the wonderful selection and quality of gifts available.

8745 N. Magnolia Ave., Santee, CA 92071 www.VillageCarpetsInc.com 619-401-6472 Lic.#595859

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2530 Alpine Blvd, Ste E Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 669-5094 facebook.com/forthelovegb

Brett and Tammy Cooker opened Descanso Junctions doors 16 years ago; adding their on site catering 6 years ago. It has been a pleasure feeding your families along with catering your weddings, events and fundraisers.

California Bank & Trust Tammy Keen, Manager (619) 445-6271 | 2250 Alpine Blvd, Alpine, CA 91901

We are proud to open our doors further with Bretts Fine Art Wood Working and Tom Roby's American Rustic. The show room of these unique home furnishings is located next to Descanso Junction. Hoping to inspire a further connection to this wonderful community.

Come enjoy your dining and shopping experience.

Thank you for all your support.

Bella's Closet With a collection described as "countryboho vixen" Bella's Closet, offers trendy women's clothing and accessories. They have great designer jeans, trendy tops, dresses, custom made jewelry and ome decor.

2202 Alpine Blvd #103 Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 445-4050 bellasclosetboutique.com ◊

Christy's Toy Outlet Fun toys for all ages! They have traditional and classic toys, hot new trendy and novelty toys, Lego Toys, Preschool and Baby Toys, lots of educational toys, games and jigsaw puzzles, lots of animal plush toys and animal figurine toys. They truly have something for any age!

5005 Willows Rd Alpine, CA 91901 (619) 659-9898 christystoyoutlet.com

For more than 60 years, California Bank & Trust has been helping generations of Californians —and California businesses — grow and prosper. We help lead them to brighter and financially sound futures. We hope to be given the opportunity to provide our service to you.

Ayres Lodge Alpine | (619) 4455800 | 1251 Tavern Rd, Alpine, CA 91901 | ayreshotels.com/ ayres-lodge-alpine

The Ayres family wishes you a very Merry Christmas!

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PostalAnnex | www.postalannex.com | (619) 659-8082 2710 Alpine Blvd Ste K, Alpine CA 91901

PostalAnnex offers a diverse range of services for industry and individuals, including private mailboxs, notary public service, high-speed copying, office supplies, faxing service, 4-color printing, key duplication, greeting cards, assorted gift items and more!

Jonar R. Bonifacio, DDS "Dr. B" James M. Skaalen, DDS

NOW OFFERING Evening and Saturday Hours New Patients Welcome! Most Insurance Accepted

Cerec Porcelain Crowns (in one visit) 3D Cone Beam • Implants Invisalign • Cosmetic & Family Dentistry Cleanings & Periodontal Care • Root Canals Oral Surgery • Sedation Dentistry

(619) 445-8896 1620 Alpine Blvd. Suite 121 Alpine, CA 91901 www.alpinedentistry.com 14

A PAYCHECK OF THE HEART

A homegrown nonprofit offers gifts and fellowship to a vulnerable group during the holiday season.

It is easy for us to go about the holiday season assuming everyone is sharing precious moments with loved ones, but Sallie Brown, a senior sales director for Mary Kay Cosmetics, uncovered an unfortunate truth—that many senior citizens in our region don't receive a lot, if any, visitors during this time of year.

“I started out seven years ago wanting to expand my business by giving to people who would most likely never be invited to a Mary Kay party due to their living environment,” said Brown.

What she discovered was that her gifts and accompanying musical performance were the highlight of many seniors' holiday. "It was heart wrenching," she said. "I resolved to make it an annual event and to try and reach as many people as I could."

As the years passed, Brown expanded her effort and established a nonprofit: Adopta-Grandparent. This program, supported by donations and a team of helpers, brings Christ­ mas carols and stockings stuffed with gifts to older people in residen­tial/ assisted living homes in East County.

Brown asks for $25 donations per grandparent to provide a Christmas stocking filled with a hand cream, foot cream, socks, a teddy bear, and candy.

With community and business support Brown and her crew provide these gifts to the elderly whose families are absent in their lives. They intentionally select the lower-end facilities where the residents have very little contact with their families and/or the outside world.

“It is a paycheck of the heart,” Brown said

when asked why she runs the program.

“There are a lot of concrete things we can get in life, but a paycheck of the heart is what we receive when we do for others."

Brown encourages anyone who would like to carol with her to come to the holiday parties. Anyone who would like to donate money for this year’s Adopt-a-Grandparent gifts or wants more information may vis­it www.adoptagrandparentusa.com. ◊

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Mountain Materials (619) 445-4150 | 1117 Tavern Rd, Alpine, CA 91901 mountainmaterialsinc.com

We service the Southern California area, specializing in the wholesale supply, hauling and delivery of a wide range of competitively priced aggregate, landscape and building materials. Additionally, we provide hazardous soil profiling, transport and disposal services. We are a family-owned wholesale material yard that is open to the public.

California Options Real Estate (619) 722-6766 | 1730 Alpine Blvd, Ste 114, Alpine, CA 91901 californiaoptionsrealestate.com

THE 24TH ANNUAL PARADE OF LIGHTS AND SNOW FESTIVAL The award-winning Alpine event returns this year bigger than ever!

Mark your calendar! The 24th Annual Parade of Lights & Snow Festival will be on Friday, December 6, 2019! The festival begins at 5:00pm and the parade steps off at 6:30pm!

Alpine’s hometown celebration of the holidays features a glowing night parade, a free snow festival with Santa Claus, real snow for sledding, children’s activities and vendors. Just the thing to put everyone in the spirit of the season! It’s an evening where everyone’s a neighbor, including visitors!

There’s nothing like a glowing night parade of lights with a snow festival and real snow to celebrate Christmas in Alpine! Add a village lighting contest, cool weather and rural scenery in the foothills and you have a memorable holiday season. The Parade will be on Alpine Boulevard, from West Victoria Drive to Tavern Road.

Happy Holidays from the CORE Team!

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New this year, the Snow Festival has been relocated to the Alpine Community Center at 1830 Alpine Boulevard. The larger venue will provide more space for activities and exciting artisan vendors. Local community groups and churches will be providing plenty of excitment for the whole family!

“The Chamber would like to invite everyone to enjoy the annual Alpine Parade of Lights & Snow Festival,” said Chamber board Director Rose Signore of Postal Annex of Alpine. “Bring your children and the whole family. Watch the kids sliding down the snow hill —- it’s real snow!”

Parade registration is required for anyone wanting to participate and is available online at visitalpine.org/events and in person at the Chamber office, 1620 Alpine Boulevard, Suite 208. There will also be registration on the day of the event for walk-ups.

Vendor booths at the Snow Festival are available as well. Vendors will be located inside the Community Center and in the parking lot out front. Since space is limited, early registration is recommended.

For more information call the Alpine Chamber of Commerce at (619) 445-2722 or go to www.visitalpine.org. ◊

BUYERS ARE LOOKING IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD RIGHT NOW!

• 20 Year Resident of Alpine • Alpine Chamber of Commerce Member • East County Specialist • Trusted Professional

What’s Your House Worth?

Call for a FREE home evaluation!

Barbara Tackett-Riley Realtor DRE #01464869

619-368-7792

Barbara@SunnySanDiegoHouses.com SunnySanDiegoHouses.com 17

Alpine Equipment & Party Rentals We Deliver!

Open Mon-Sat 7–5

20 Years & Still Growing! – Family Owned & Operated!

Fun Jumps • Dunk Tanks • Concessions • Lighting Tables & Chairs • Linens • Canopies • Lawn & Garden Tools Construction Tools • Bobcats • Tractors • Trailers • Lifts 2110 Alpine Blvd.

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•

AlpineRentals.biz

619-445-6214

State Farm - Laurie Hallihan 2271 Alpine Blvd, Ste F, Alpine, CA 91901 | (619) 6593239 | www.lauriehallihan.com

ICE RINK AT VIEJAS NOW OPEN!

Southern California's largest outdoor skating rink returns for the season!

Our mission is to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected and realize their dreams. With over 30 years experience, we take a holistic appraoch to customer's needs offering auto, life, fire, and business insurance. An Alpine resident since 2001, Laurie Hallihan serves with many local community organizations.

Lace up your skates and take in the holiday splendor as you relive a cherished piece of your childhood or take your very first spin at the Viejas Ice Rink!

Come to Viejas Casino & Resort to create some wonderful holiday memories!

Southern California's largest outdoor ice rink is back!

Gather at Viejas Outlets under the glow of holiday lights. Glide and spin around the rink to the exuberant sounds of favorite music old and new! Take a break and enjoy a variety of seasonal snacks and drinks.

You can also take care of all your holiday shopping and enjoy great savings on all the seasonal sales!

Whether you need a hot cocoa for a preskate warmup or some popcorn or pizza for a post-skate snack, they've got you covered.

Did You Know that in addition to being Southern California's Largest Outdoor Ice Rink, the venue at Viejas is even bigger than the world-famous rink at Rockefeller Center in New York City?

Prices (90 Minute Session) $15 – Ages 12 & Under $17 – Adults & Teens $99 — Season Pass Learn more about the rink and see the full schedule by visiting viejas.com/ice-rink. ◊

Mountain Country 107.9 FM themountainfm.com (619) 445-1079 | PO Box 2612, Alpine, CA 91903

Mountain Country 107.9FM is a nonprofit station providing local information, weather, community updates, and great country music streaming 24/7, including Traditional, Classic, and Texas Country!

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RING IN THE NEW YEAR LIKE GATSBY

The most glamorous New Year’s Eve event in San Diego takes place here, at Viejas Casino & Resort! a delicious dinner that includes drinks all night! Dance to live music and then watch the ball drop and the skies light up with a brilliant display of fireworks.

Viejas Casino & Resort is bringing back their dual parties, the Gala and the Bash, for New Year's Eve. The theme for this year is the Roaring Twenties, so be

prepared to party like Gatsby!

Start the New Year the right way at the New Year’s Gala in the Oak Ballroom. Enjoy

The New Year’s Bash will be at the Park at Viejas. Mix and mingle or dance the night away. Feast from a variety of delicious food and drinks offered for purchase throughout the Park. Then, watch the ball drop and enjoy an amazing fireworks display to ring in 2019.

For more information, please visit viejas. com/new-years-eve-bash-2020. Tickets available now at axs.com! ◊

“All things Hemp!” ──── Established Hemp business since 2013 ──── Organic Teas and Essential oils

Ryan DePrizio, Realtor® | www.ryansellssandiego.com (619) 417-4359 | P.O. Box 2649, Alpine, CA 91903

──── Medicinal Mushrooms and elixirs

M​T​. H​EMPIRE

“​ALL​ ​THINGS​ H​EMP​!”

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A PIONEER CHRISTMAS A lot has changed in Alpine since the late 1800s, but what remains the same is the spirit of family and togetherness.

By Carol Walker, Alpine Historical Society This year as we prepare for our holiday celebrations, I thought it appropriate to pause and reflect on the way the pioneers who came to Alpine in the late 1800’s

may have celebrated Christmas. For most of the early settlers in Alpine, times were hard. Their celebrations were very different from the sparkling displays that we have come to expect today. On the other hand, Christmas was celebrated in much the same way—with family and friends. Absent from their celebrations were the huge malls and toy stores, the twinkling electric lights, the abundance of food on the shelves of grocery stores and the convenience foods all packaged and ready to go. Imagine a pioneer woman’s amazement if she was to see what is available to us today!

Pioneers prepared for Christmas by making gifts for one another. Some would take weeks to make, so preparation began early. The children’s toys were made by parents and grandparents. Dolls were fashioned of scraps of cloth, left over from clothing made by the women, button eyes and yarn hair. The bodies and heads were stuffed with whatever material was available. Careful stitches outlined the doll’s facial features. Clothing was fashioned, again from scraps of material left over from other projects. Wooden toys for the boys were carved from wood

and put together in secret for that happy day. Sachets, pillows, footstools and embroidered hankies were made. Scarves, hats, mittens and socks were knitted.

Since money was scarce, materials used to fashion gifts was from whatever was available. If the harvest had been good that year, stockings were hung and filled with presents along with cookies and fruit. If there was room in the tiny homes, the men and boys and sometimes the entire family would go out and search for a Christmas tree. When the perfect tree was found, it was set up in the home and decorated with loving care. The ornaments used for these trees were simple. Scraps of paper or yarn, strings of popcorn, cones and nuts from trees, homemade yarn or corn husk dolls and cookie dough ornaments could be found on these lovely trees. If paper was available, the children would cut stars, snowmen, angels and paper rings to decorate the tree.

Sometimes some of the families had ornaments which had been handed down from another lifetime. Hand-blown glass

ornaments may have come from Europe, carefully packed and carried, when their grandparents or great grandparents came to this country. These ornaments were very precious as they represented Christmas past from other places and other times and they always took a place of honor on the family’s tree.

Christmas Eve found the family gathered together singing the age-old Carols of Christmas and preparing for the excitement of the coming day.

The Christmas dinner was planned and preparation of the food began weeks ahead of time. Wild turkeys were hunted and fruit from their own trees was baked into wonderful pies. Bread was baked in the fireplace. Often several families got together to share their feast, with each family supplying a dish. Always, they attended church and then visited with neighbors and friends. The excitement of love shared on Christmas day helped to make up for hardships suffered during the past year. For a while, these pioneer families could relax and forget their everyday problems. They could remember and talk of the Christmases of their childhood and the Christmases yet to come.

I reflect on the Christmases past and wonder at the fact that the most wonderful memories are based on simple things—making cookies with the kids, creating homemade ornaments for the tree, going for a walk after Christmas dinner. The glitter fades and ceases to be important when we consider the true meaning of the holidays—family, friends, loved ones all! ◊ 21

EVENT CALENDAR WINTER HIGHLIGHTS Multiple Dates & Times Outdoor Ice Skating Viejas Casino & Resort 5000 Willows Rd, Alpine, CA 91901

Southern California’s largest outdoor ice rink has returned to Viejas Casino & Resort. Visitors enjoy the holiday fun by spinning and gliding on the ice under a dazzling light and music show. The nearly 10,000 square foot rink is open through January. For more information, please visit Viejas.com.

Multiple Dates & Times North Pole Limited

Pacific Southwest Railway Museum 750 Depot St, Campo, CA 91906 A Mountain Empire favorite, the North Pole Limited is a holiday train ride conducted by the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum in Campo. Passengers are in for an incredible ride, complete with Santa’s elves, singing, delicious treats, and a stop at Santa’s Workshop to pick up Santa and Mrs. Claus! Trains depart on weekends in December. For more information, please visit PSRM. org.

1830 Alpine Blvd, Alpine, CA 91901 Festivities begin at 5pm. The Parade steps off at 6:30pm at the corner of Alpine Blvd & W. Victoria Dr and ends at Tavern Road.

There will be a visit from Santa and lots of snow! Enjoy various vendors, food, music and fun for the entire family! For more information please visit, VisitAlpine.org.

Sat Dec 07, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Breakfast with Santa Alpine Community Center 1830 Alpine Blvd, Alpine, CA 91901 Breakfast with Santa includes breakfast for the family, a Santa visit, and arts & crafts for the children. For more

information, please visit our site AlpineCommunityCenter.com.

Fri Dec 06, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM 24th Annual Parade of Lights & Snow Festival Alpine Community Center 22

Fri Dec 13, 8:00 PM Amy & the Unknown Holiday Show Mediterraneo Bistro 1347 Tavern Rd, Alpine, CA 91901 Come celebrate the holidays with us at this fantastic family friendly venue.

Great food, great service, fun games and of course, our fun-loving rock & roll! For more information, please visit MediterraneoBistro.com.

Sat Dec 14, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM 14th Annual Alpine Holiday Home Tour Alpine Women's Club 2156 Alpine Blvd, Alpine, CA 91901 Presented by the Alpine Woman's Club.

Guests are treated to a collection of beautifully decorated homes around Alpine with plenty of surprises along the way. Proceeds assist in the preservation of historic Town Hall and provide scholarships for college-bound students. For more information, please visit AlpineWomansClub.com. Cost: $30 advance; $35 at the door.

Sat Nov 30, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM Community Christmas Drive Alpine Community Center 1830 Alpine Blvd, Alpine, CA 91901 The Alpine Kiwanis and Salvation Army are teaming up to hold a clothing and toy drive for the children of East County. The greatest needs are new clothing for ages 6 to 16 and blankets and jackets for all ages. For more information please visit, AlpineKiwanis.com Sat Nov 30, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM Annual Community Tree Lighting Historic Town Hall 2156 Alpine Blvd, Alpine, CA 91901 Join us on Small Business Saturday to light the community tree! There will be a visit from Santa Claus, vendors selling treats, and plenty of holiday magic! This event is Free and Open to the Public. Bring the whole family! For more information please visit, VisitAlpine.org.

Canteen. Kids 12 and under. Santa, Gifts, Bounce House, Pizza, Crafts, and outside fun. For more information, please visit VFW9578.com.

Sat Dec 14, 12:00 PM Holiday Open House at Lions Tigers & Bears Lions Tigers & Bears 24402 Martin Way, Alpine, CA 91901 Watch the rescued animals open their presents and discover their Christmas trees at this festive Holiday Open House featuring local food trucks, music, a visit from Santa and lots of fun! For more information, please visit LionsTigersandBears.org.

Sat Dec 07, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM Kids Christmas Party at VFW VFW Post 9578 844 Tavern Rd, Alpine, CA 91901 Please sign up before December 3rd at the

Tue Dec 31, 8:00 PM New Year's Eve Bash 2020: Roaring Celebration Viejas Casino & Resort 5000 Willows Rd, Alpine, CA 91901 Join us for our New Year’s Bash at the Park at Viejas or Gala at the Oak Ballroom. Mix and mingle or dance the night away. Feast from a variety of delicious food and drinks.

Then, watch the ball drop and enjoy an amazing fireworks display to ring in 2019.

Reserve your New Year’s Bash tickets now at axs.com!

November / December

2019

Chamber Holiday Events A season of fun for the whole family!

Sat. 11/30

Fri. 12/6

2nd Annual Tree Lighting

24th Annual Parade of Lights & Snow Festival

Historic Town Hall 2156 Alpine Blvd Alpine, CA 91901

Parade Route Alpine Blvd between W. Victoria & Tavern

Snow Festival 1830 Alpine Blvd Alpine, CA 91901

6:00pm - 7:30pm Live music, vendors, holiday treats, & more!

6:00pm 100+ unique floats decorated with lights!

5:00pm - 9:00pm Vendors, sledding, holiday treats, & more!

Presented by San Diego Gas & Electric

Presented by Viejas Casino & Resort and COX Communications

For more information:

Please call (619) 445-2722 or go to VisitAlpine.org

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Viejas Casino & Resort ∙ 5000 Willows Road ∙ Alpine, CA 91901 ∙ 619.445.5400

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Guests must be at least 21 years of age to enter. Guests must be at least 21 years of age to drink alcoholic beverages. Guests under 21 years of age are permitted in The Buffet, Ginger Noodle Bar, Baron Long Bar & Grill or Daily Roast only, but must be accompanied by an adult. Guests must be at least 18 years of age to enter Viejas Bingo. Families are welcome at the Viejas Outlets and the Viejas Hotel. Please play responsibly. For help with problem gambling, call 800.426.2537

Viejas.com

2018

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