Pathway’s 5K Turkey Trot 2015 - Pg 13 - 14
NOV 21 - NOV 27, 2020 Vol. 2 No. 47
The East County Community Times
East EastCounty’s Only Photojournalism Publication
Mother Goose Parade 2015 -2019 Get Your Community Fix!
NEWS In the
PAGE TWO • NOV 21 - NOV 27, 2020
County Awarded Grant for Bicycle & Pedestrian Safety Education November 13 - The County Health & Human Services Agency has received a $125,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to improve the safety of bicyclists, pedestrians, and scooter riders. “Our goal is that education will change poor behaviors and make our roads safer,” OTS Director Barbara Rooney said. “This funding will help ensure the safety of those out biking or walking.” Grant funds will be used for a variety of activities promoting bicyclist, pedestrian, and scooter safety, including:
(1) Education workshops geared toward youth, older adults, and community groups. (2) Education on the importance of safety equipment that improves visibility such as reflective armbands, bicycle headlights. and taillights. (3) Bicycle and scooter safety courses. Presentations to community groups, including disability community stakeholders. (4) A public relations education and outreach campaign directed to the mobility community, motorists, and businesses. The services, which will run through September 30, 2021,
will be provided by Circulate San Diego. This safety campaign aligns with Live Well San Diego (LINK #1), the County’s vision for healthy, safe and thriving residents and communities. Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. For more information, contact Danielle Berger from Circulate San Diego at 619-5449255 ext. 305. Courtesy of José A. Álvarez, County of San Diego Communications Office
Marsha Gable Appointed Interim Grossmont College President El Cajon, November 20 – Marsha Gable, Grossmont College’s Vice President of Student Services, has been selected to serve as the College’s Interim President beginning January 1 following the retirement of Nabil Abu-Ghazaleh. Gable, whose career in higher education over the past 18 includes eight months in 2019 and 2020 as interim president of San Diego Miramar College, will lead Grossmont College on an interim basis until a permanent president is selected next summer. “Dr. Gable is a natural choice for interim president,” said Lynn Neault, Chancellor of the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District. “She has demonstrated that she has the skills and the talent to guide the college through this leadership transition.” Neault noted that Gable, who has served as vice president of Student Services for the past five years, is familiar with the governance and culture of Grossmont College. Gable was also involved in the College’s reaffirmation of accreditation that will culminate with a follow-up visit in the spring. In her role at the helm of Student Services, Gable has overseen the division’s administration, planning, and fiscal management, and in recent months, led the efforts to pivot to a remote delivery of services to students due to the pandemic. She has collaborated with colleagues in numerous programs, including equity-focused initiatives such as Via Rápida and the First Year
Experience programs for students from underserved communities. “I very much look forward to my interim leadership role at Grossmont College and engaging with an excellent community of students, staff, faculty and administrators,” Gable said. “Communication, collaboration, equity and inclusion remain key in leading the college and I look forward to the collegial work ahead to address the continuing and new challenges with a team committed to and focused on equitable outcomes for our students.” Prior to her post at Grossmont College, Gable served as Dean of Counseling Services and Admissions and Records at Cuyamaca College; Associate Dean of Student Services EOPS/ CARE at Santa Ana College, and Associate Director of University Outreach at CSU San Marcos, where she earned her bachelor’s in Social Sciences, and master’s in Sociological Practice. She earned her doctorate in Educational Leadership from San Diego State University. Gable’s instructional experiences include serving as an adjunct instructor at San Diego State University, Mira Costa, and Mt. San Jacinto Colleges; and CSU San Marcos. Personal story: Gable was the product of a workingclass family in Toledo, Ohio, with a father who only got as far as the eighth grade and was a city bus driver. Putting her own schooling on hold to care for her children, Gable’s mother returned to the classroom in her 40’s and became
a special education teacher, a job she held until she retired at age 73. Gable credits her parents for instilling the importance of education in her and four siblings, all of whom have college degrees. Gable was initially failing college with little direction or personal insight in what she wanted to do. She said it took 15 years and returning to the classroom as a community college student to find her way. Her academic rebirth is behind Gable’s commitment to ensuring the success of students who are less privileged, underresourced, and at risk, which is the core philosophy of California Community Colleges. “I was an underdog and know that when you have support and people give you a chance to shine, it is amazing what happens,” she said. Della Elliott, Marketing & Communications Office/Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District
Computers for Foster Kids November 12 - Several local foster families received an early holiday present on November 12,: a computer. The families received the free computers as part of the 20th Annual Computers for Foster Families Program. The collaborative effort between the County of San Diego and the San Diego County Futures Foundation (LINK #1) is especially important this year,
as many children are distance learning due to COVID-19. Started in 2001 by San Diego County Supervisor Greg Cox, the Computers for Foster Families Program aims to improve the lives of foster children and their families through the gift of technology. The initiative supports foster families by increasing computer and internet access for some of the region’s most vulnerable
children. The computers, which were formerly used by County employees, are refurbished by the San Diego County Futures Foundation before they are distributed to foster families. To View the video, go to: (LINK #2). Courtesy of Katie Cadiao, County of San Diego Communications Office; Video by Suzanne Bartole
It is the Time for Choosing and Action November 16 - As regional leaders, we face unprecedented challenges. The decisions we make today to address those challenges will be felt by those we serve long after we leave office. This moment of crisis presents us with a choice: what kind of region, state, and country do we want to be? The choice begins with our state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In an April commentary, I encouraged readers to remember it is up to “We the People” to ensure the governor’s unilateral infringements on our precious liberties were temporary, narrowly tailored and the least restrictive means to achieving the state’s goal of ending the pandemic. Sadly, while our knowledge of the disease has evolved dramatically, the state’s clamping down on our liberties has not let up. Businesses have been irreversibly damaged houses of worship have been shuttered and the mental health of countless Californians continues to decline. It didn’t need to be this way. It’s time that leaders at all levels of government recognize the social and economic havoc wreaked by lockdowns and take a more thoughtful approach to addressing the pandemic. We must allow businesses to implement safe protocols and trust they will enforce them. We must reopen our schools immediately, especially in light of the overwhelming evidence that the disease isn’t spreading in schools. We must restore the God-given right to worship and allow Californians to access the social care and community they desperately need, by fully and safely opening churches. Our leaders at the federal level, which I am glad will include Rep. Darrell Issa, must commit to a significant investment in our transportation infrastructure and regional priorities such as the Tijuana River Valley restoration. It’s time for leadership on these issues, and I know our next congressman is committed to these efforts. I am also pleased that East County appears to have joined me in voting for
Joel Anderson to represent us on the Board of Supervisors. Joel made a campaign pledge to streamline housing approval so that all San Diegans could attain the dream of home ownership and afford to raise their families here in our beautiful region. If his lead holds, Supervisor-elect Anderson will have my partnership. Finally, I strongly encourage the Legislature to reconsider my homelessness package that presented an alternative to the unworkable solutions proposed by Sacramento politicians thus far. The package included five measures aimed at moving Californians currently homeless into temporary, transitional housing. It also emphasized a compassionate assessment of each homeless person’s behavior, mental health, and substance issues before placing that person in temporary housing. Finally, the measures emphasized utilization of existing nonprofits, charities, and faith-based housing programs, rather than setting up new bureaucracies. We don’t need to reinvent the wheel, but we have to act now. I am ready to work with anyone from any party on these priorities. The question is whether others are willing to do the same. This is the time for choosing, and action. Brian Jones, California Senate Republican Caucus Chair, Santee, Originally printed in the San Diego Union Tribune, November 13, 2020.
East County ComunityTimes Staff Jay Renard/Publisher/Photojournalist Times_Publisher@cox.net Sandy Renard/ Editor Times_Editor@cox.net
On The Cover El Cajon - Sunday, November 22 – Due to Covid-10, The Mother Goose Parade is virtual this year. Photos in this issue were taken from the East County Community Times and The East County Herald (Ret.) from Mother Goose Parades from 2015 to 2019.
Cover: Jay Renard Cover design: Jay Renard / The East Community Times
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COMMUNITY Matters PAGE FOUR
NOV 21 - NOV 27, 2020
Regional Water Conveyance System Study
November 19 – On November 19, the San Diego County Water Authority’s Board of Directors authorized staff to launch the next phase of a study assessing options for long-term water deliveries to sustain the region’s economy and quality of life. The decision follows months of community dialogue about Phase A of the Regional Conveyance System Study, which was released in August. The study demonstrated the technical viability and economic competitiveness of two routes for an aqueduct to transport the Water Authority’s independent, high-priority Colorado River water to San Diego County. Over the next 15 to 18 months, Water Authority staff will undertake Phase B, focusing on economic analysis of the two conveyance route alternatives and exploring partnerships that could provide significant benefits to an array of stakeholders and potentially reduce the cost of project development. At the end of Phase B, the 36-member Board will again decide whether to continue with regional conveyance project planning – and if so, how to proceed. “These issues are complex and the decisions never easy, but the Board chose today to keep all water supply and delivery options on the table in light of future uncertainties,” said Gary Croucher, Chair of the Water Authority’s Board of Directors. “I look forward to learning from Phase B and working with the Board to decide on next steps when that study phase is done. We also look forward to working with MWD in coming months to explore long-term options for continued use of its Colorado River Aqueduct.” The Water Authority is the long-term water planning agency for metropolitan San Diego County and the region’s wholesale water provider, serving 3.3 million people and a $245 billion economy in partnership with its 24 retail member agencies. Half of the Water Authority’s supplies are from two landmark 2003 water conservation agreements; one that boosted water-use efficiency in collaboration with the Imperial Irrigation
District and another to line sections of the All-American and Coachella canals with concrete to reduce seepage. Both agreements are part of the 2003 Quantification Settlement Agreement, the largest ag-to-urban water transfer in U.S. history. Conserved water from the QSA is transferred to San Diego County through an Exchange Agreement with the Los Angeles-based Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD). MWD owns the only facilities available to transport Colorado River water to San Diego County. The cost of using MWD facilities to deliver the Water Authority’s QSA water has increased 30% over the past five years alone. The Water Authority’s Exchange Agreement with MWD ends in 2047, and the Water Authority is working to develop conveyance alternatives in order to manage future cost and risks. “While 2047 may seem distant, major water infrastructure projects take decades to develop, plan and build,” said Croucher. “By advancing to Phase B of the conveyance study, the Water Authority is taking prudent steps to ensure long-term water supply reliability for the region.” In order to address the cost and risk uncertainties associated with the use of MWD facilities, the Water Authority’s Board in June 2019 approved a study of the viability of a new regional conveyance system that would deliver water from the Colorado River to San Diego County and also might provide multiple benefits across the Southwest. Three potential pipeline routes were studied in Phase A, which concluded in August 2020 that two alternatives (3A and 5A) are cost-competitive with other options, such as continued use of MWD facilities. Water Authority staff and consultants began in August an extensive series of briefings and outreach on Phase A results and consultant reports. The Board’s goal was to ensure a full exchange of information and viewpoints in a transparent process. Outreach across numerous platforms engaged member agencies, other local stakeholders, the Imperial Valley, and Bor-
rego Springs. With the November 19 Board vote to approve Phase B, Water Authority staff will focus for the next several months on economics, partnerships, legal analysis, and stakeholder outreach. Phase B will help address questions about mitigating shortterm rate impacts of a project, the benefits of potential partnerships and funding opportunities, developing a plan of finance and the requirements of existing agreements, as well as explore with MWD options for long-term water deliveries to the San Diego region using MWD facilities. MWD issues to be addressed will include analysis of: (1) Historic and projected future increases in MWD’s water rates and charges; (2) MWD’s current planning assumptions; (3) Costs and water yield of MWD’s current and planned projects; (4) Future demand for MWD water; (5) Other MWD rate drivers. Phase B will apply the same rigorous analysis to Water Authority rate and cost projections. Water Authority staff will also begin the process of engaging more formally with stakeholders on potential partnership projects identified in Phase A, including public-privatepartnerships, bi-national projects, renewable energy projects, regional operational storage projects, Salton Sea-related projects, and partnerships with tribes, federal and state governments, and member agencies. For more information, go to sdcwa.org/colorado-riversupplies-management (LINK #1). The San Diego County Water Authority sustains a $245 billion regional economy and the quality of life for 3.3 million residents through a multi-decade water supply diversification plan, major infrastructure investments and forward-thinking policies that promote fiscal and environmental responsibility. A public agency created in 1944, the Water Authority delivers wholesale water supplies to 24 retail water providers, including cities, special districts, and a military base.
San Diego Blood Bank Saves Lives November 17 - This year, San Diego Blood Bank (SDBB), a proud member of the East County Chamber of Commerce, celebrates 70 years of saving lives in partnership with the community. Since being founded by the San Diego County Medical Society in 1950, San Diego Blood Bank has worked with the community to ensure blood is ready and available for hospital patients whose lives depend on it. A local non-profit blood bank like SDBB is critical, as it is able to prioritize local community needs and respond quickly to an emergency. SDBB is the primary provider of blood to most hospitals in San Diego County, including Rady Children’s Hospital. Each year, SDBB provides approximately 6,000 units of blood to Sharp Grossmont Hospital. San Diego Blood Bank collects more than 100,000 units of blood products every year through its twelve fully equipped bloodmobiles that travel throughout Southern California and its eight donation centers, including its East County Donor Center, located at 776 Arnele Avenue in El Cajon. This center collects more than 8,000 units of lifesaving blood products every year and is open Tuesday through Thursday, 10am-6pm, and Friday through, Monday, 8am-4pm. Center manager Shelly Rufenacht and her staff invite the East County community to come in for a visit and experience first-hand how it feels to save a life, most times in less than an hour. Every year, those 100,000+ units of blood provided by San Diego Blood Bank are transfused into patients of all ages, socio-economic, and ethnic backgrounds throughout San Diego County. Patients like East County resident Regina Mapes who was diagnosed with a skull birth defect at four-months-old. To correct her skull, Regina had her first surgery at nine-monthsold, which required a blood transfusion. A second surgery was needed at 15-months-old. Thanks to blood donors, Regina is an active 5-year-old who just started kindergarten. Currently, blood banks across the country are experiencing severe blood shortages as a result of the
continued impact of COVID-19. The cancellation of high school, college, and corporate blood drives has resulted in the loss of thousands of units of blood in the last few months. Donors are needed immediately to fill the gap so our community will have supply on-hand for patients like Regina as we head into the holiday season. In addition to blood donations, SDBB encourages anyone who has recovered from COVID-19 to donate their plasma. People who survive an infectious disease like COVID-19 have plasma that contains antibodies the body’s immune system created to fight off the virus. These antibodies could potentially be used to help patients currently suffering from COVID-19. To donate convalescent plasma, you must: (1) Have a positive test and not had symptoms for 28 days. (2) Have a positive test, have not had symptoms for 14 days, and have a subsequent negative PCR test. (3) You must also meet the standard requirements for blood donation (at least 17 years of age, 114 pounds and in general good health). Appointments to donate blood or convalescent plasma are required and can be made by visiting SanDiegoBloodBank.org (LINK #1) or calling 619-4008251. Each time you donate, you receive a mini health screening. You can even track your blood pressure, pulse, hemoglobin, temperature, and cholesterol in your online personalized health portal. Blood donation is one of the most mportant things you can do for others. It allows you to help save the life of a premature infant or trauma victim, or vastly improve the health of someone fighting a chronic disease or cancer. There is no substitute for human blood, which means local hospitals rely on the generosity of our community for the gift of life. San Diego Blood Bank invites East County residents and those throughout San Diego to come experience heartfelt gratitude, lifesaving, full-circle wellness and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve saved a life – possibly in your very own community. Claudine Van Gonka, Manager, Public Relations, San Diego Blood Bank
Ed Joyce, Public Affairs/ San Diego County Water Authority
CSAC Recognizes Five Innovative County Programs November 13 - Five San Diego County programs were chosen by the California State Association of Counties (CSAC) for 2020 Challenge Awards, highlighting innovation among programs developed and implemented in county government. San Diego County received the second most awards this year. Los Angeles County received seven. In total, 49 programs from 25 counties were awarded this year. The Love Your Heart, Heart Health Awareness program received a Challenge Award in the Health and Human Services category. The Love Your Heart annual campaign was launched on Valentine’s Day 2012 to address the negative impacts of heart disease in the region. Partnering organizations and businesses provide volunteers to check blood pressures, collect data, and help promote the availability of blood pressure sites in a variety of locations and settings to ensure broad accessibility. The inaugural year, 1000 blood pressure readings were taken at the event. In 2020, through the help of hundreds of volunteers, there were more than 56,000 blood pressure readings completed across 542 sites in the United States and Mexico. Of these, more than 5,441 hypertensive cases were identified and referred to urgent or emergency care, as appropriate. CSAC also gave a Merit Award in the same category to
the Health and Human Services Agency for its Stopping the Incarcerated Homeless Mentally Ill Cycle program. The program provides inmates who have been diagnosed with a mental illness immediate housing upon their release from jail. This is accomplished with peer-led care coordination and system navigation in the community to connect participants to permanent housing and supportive services. The Community Care Coordination program team is led by HHSA and teams up with the Sheriff’s Department and the Office of the Public Defender. The program continues to work with people for up to 12 months after their release from custody to ensure they are getting appropriate care. The Probation Department’s Promoting Youth Success with Alternatives to Detention Program earned a Merit Award in the Administration of Justice and Public Safety Category. The program provides youth with needed services from community providers to reduce youth contact with the juvenile justice system. This ultimately reduces recidivism and the youth’s time in custody. Additionally, it lowers costs associated with detaining youth in custody. The Virtual Recreation Center program received a Merit Award in the Government Finance, Administration and Technology category. When
COVID-19 restrictions closed local parks in the spring and restricted events and regular parks programming, the Department of Parks and Recreation figured out a way to continue offering its content online using its website, social media, and videoconferencing. Parks offered talks with rangers using videoconferencing, re-imagined the Summer Movies in the Park to Summer Movies at Home, offering fun recipes for families to try out as an added option. Parks also offered interactive content such as a trivia contest on social media with a local hiking author, ranger-led talks using Facebook Live, and virtual hike videos to entice people to explore safely once trails were reopened. The Accessory Dwelling Unit Program accepted a Merit Award in the Housing, Land Use, and Infrastructure category. The Planning and Development Services Department’s program provides several cost and time saving incentives from permit waivers to pre-approved plans to expedited plan check services for property owners who build additional dwellings, often referred to as granny flats, on their properties. By encouraging people to build accessory dwellings on their property, it helps with the shortage of affordable housing. Yvette Urrea Moe, County of San Diego Communications Office
The New Hot Spot for Lunch in Santee Santee, November 19 - Hungry??? The City of Santee has the new hot spot for lunch. Make sure to stop by the new site for Food Truck Grab-NGo lunch otherwise known as Food Truck Central. The City is finding creative ways to offer their community safe and socially distanced lunch opportunities on one of the City’s vacant lots along Prospect Avenue. Food Truck Central opened up on November 17 and is gaining popularity. There is a great line up of food vendors ranging from wood fired pizza to Belgium waffles. “We hope to expand this concept of Food Truck Central into a bustling epicenter of delicious food, drinks, and entertainment at some point along Prospect Avenue, which houses a variety of industrial businesses and a couple of Santee’s finest breweries. But for
right now we are offering up a unique way to grab a bite to eat for our workforce community,” enthusiastically explains the City Manager Marlene Best. The new Food Truck site is located on the northwest corner of Prospect Avenue and Siesta Road (10600 block of Prospect, just west of Magnolia Avenue). Food Trucks will be serving at this location on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, from 11am. to 2pm. Check out the City’s website calendar link (LINK #1) for an up to date food truck schedule. Food truck schedule subject to change. Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, no Food Truck Central on November 26 & 27. Food Truck Central (LINK #2) where Santee will be Doing More Eating > Due East !!! Bree Humphrey, City of Santee Marketing Coordinator
Holiday Lights Extravaganza
Santee, November 24 – Lantern Crest Senior Living will be holding their first ever Holiday Lights Extravaganza all of December on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays (excluding Christmas Eve and Christmas Day) from 6-8pm. Celebrate the Holiday Season with loved ones at our drive-thru light show. In addition
to hundreds of lights, there will be a photo booth and sweet treats to purchase in which all proceeds will go to the Lantern Crest Foundation. Lantern Crest is located at 300 Lantern Crest Way, Santee 92071. Brittany Fay, Life Enrichment Director at The Pointe, Lantern Crest Senior Living
NOV 21 - NOV 27, 2020
THE EAST COUNTY COMMUNITY TIMES • YOUR COMMUNITY OUR COMMUNITY
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FIVE
City of El Cajon Notice of Public Review and Comment Period
FREE YOUR RECYCLABLES.
No plastic bags. Put items directly into your recycling container.
El Cajon, November 19 - Yhe City of El Cajon’s Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for FY 2019-2020 activities related to the FY 2019-2020 One Year Action Plan is available for review and comment. The report discusses the availability and utilization of federal CDBG and HOME resources during the reporting period from July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020. The public review and comment period of 15 days will begin on November 19, 2020 and will end on December 10. The
report is available for review at the Community Development Department–Project Assistance Center public counter located at 200 Civic Center Way, First Floor, El Cajon between the hours of 7:30am and 5:30pm, Monday through Thursday, and from 8am to 5pm on alternating Fridays (except for legal holidays). The draft report is also available at any time for public review and comment on the City’s webpage at: (LINK #1). This material is available in alternate formats upon request, such as large print or computer disk for individuals
with disabilities and can also be made available in Spanish. Please call 619-441-1710 to request alternate formats or languages. Written comments can be submitted via electronic mail to: jkasviki@cityofelcajon. us or mailed to the City of El Cajon, Community Development Department - Housing, 200 Civic Center Way, El Cajon 92020. Comments relative to the CAPER must be received by December 10, 2020 to be considered in the CAPER document. Courtesy of the City of El Cajon
El Cajon City Council November 10 Meeting
For more information, visit
RecycleOftenRecycleRight.com Santee City Council October 18 Meeting Santee - Wednesday, October 18, was the bi-monthly Santee City Council meeting. This meeting was live streamed. The full council, Mayor John Minto, Vice Mayor Laura Koval, Councilmembers Stephen Houlahan, Ronn Hall, and Rob McNelis were present. Legislative Invocation given by Marshall Masser of Lakeside Christian Church. Public Hearing: Resolution Amending Program Year (PY) 2019 Annual Action Plan and Program Year 2020 Annual Action Plan. Final City Council recommendations of CDGB Funding, Microenterprise Assistance Program, and HUD PY 2020 Entitlement Program. Approved by City Council and authorized City Manager to submit Amended PY 2019 and PY 2020. Continued Public Hearing: Consider Disposition and Development Agreement (DDA) between City of Santee and Excel Acquisitions, LLC, for development of real property known as Parcel 4 of Parcel Map 18857 located in Trolley Square. This is for a hotel on the North side of Trolley Square in the new Santee Entertainment District. Approved by City Council to continue this hearing to January 13, 2021. Continued Business: (1) Resolution continuing Fire Risk Emergency in Mast Park West and expanding Emergency to Mast Park East, authorizing construction of a Second Firebreak along the South property boundary of Mast Park East abutting residential and commercial structures on Willowgrove Avenue (East of Carlton Hills Boulevard), Waiving requirement for competitive bidding, appropriating funds, and authorizing City Manager to enter into contracts to construct a Second Firebreak. Report given by Fire Chief Garlow with an update on the current project. Willowgrove Avenue West of Carlton Hills brush clearing is
100% complete. Tree work to begin this week (11/18). Trees to be removed on December 16 by helicopter. Approved by City Council. New Business: (1) Appropriation for November 3, 2020 Election Costs and for Signature Verification of the Referendum Against City Council Resolution No. 0942020 (Fanita Ranch General Plan Amendment). Approved by City Council. (2) Authorize an Agreement for Professional Services Between the City of Santee and Fireworks and Stage FX America. This is for Santee’s 40th Birthday Celebration on December 1. Approved by City Council. City Council Report: Attended White House Conference call. Received an update on COVID vaccine availability and everyone please get a flu shot this year. City Manager report: (1) The City of Santee will celebrate its 40th birthday on December 1 with an all-day celebration: Sweet Treats will be given at 12 locations around the city and fireworks at 7pm launched simultaneously at West Hills Park and Town Center Park East. Fireworks aerial display with choreographed music to be virtual. More information at: (LINK #1). (2) No traditional tree lighting ceremony this year in Santee but will be having Festive Fridays in December with Santa Claus and the Frozen characters. For more information, go to: (LINK #2). (3) Santee’s Food Truck Central is now happening on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 11am-2pm, located at the 10600 Block of Prospect Avenue (Prospect Avenue and Siesta Road). For more information, go to City of Santee calendar at: (LINK #3). The next City Council meeting will be held on December 18 at 6:30pm. To view the meeting live, go to: (LINK #2). Sandy Renard, Editor, East County Community Times
El Cajon - Tuesday, October 10 was the bi-monthly El Cajon City Council meeting. The City Council meeting was live streamed. The full council: Mayor Bill Wells, Deputy Mayor Phil Ortiz, Councilmembers Steve Goble, Gary Kendrick, and Bob McClellan were present. This was the last official meeting for Councilmember Bob McClellan after 28 years of service to El Cajon. His official retirement party will be at the next Council meeting. Public Hearing: First Amendment to FY 2020-21 OneYear Action Plan to reallocate available CDBG Funds (Crisis House, Inc.). City Council opened and closed the public hearing. Accepted public testimony for the 1st Amendment to the FY 2020-21 One-Year Action Plan. Adopted the Resolution amending the FY 2020-21 One-Year Action Plan to re-allocate and appropriate $700,000 in identified Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funds to Crisis House, Inc., for assistance with property acquisition to provide CDBG-eligible services to East County residents and authorized the City Manager to enter into an agreement with Crisis House for the use of funds for real property acquisition, make the necessary changes to the OneYear Action Plan, and submit all required documentation to
the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Crisis House new property is currently in escrow and located on Magnolia Avenue in Santee. Administrative Reports: (1) Approval of Pension Obligation Bonds (POB). Discussed why POB’s; risks of POB’s; risk of doing nothing; alternatives; inherit risk of CalPERS; and validation. Approved by City Council. (2) Project Update on Main Street Green Street. Project is located on West Main from Marshall to Johnson Avenue, also known as Transit District Improvement Project. To improve roadway, streetscape, landscape, and bike lanes. Project funding from SANDAG, TransNet funds, and Prop 68 grant. Schedule is currently 50% into design stage. Contruction timeframe to begin Summer 2021 with completion by December 2022. City Council received report and provided feedback on proposed project. (3) Project Update on El Cajon Boulevard Streetscape Improvements. Located from El Cajon Blvd to Johnson and El Cajon Blvd from Lemon Avenue with three traffic roundabouts located on El Cajon Blvd. To have streetscape, public places, widened sidewalks, and street parking. Project funding from SANDAG, TransNet funds, and Prop 68 grant. Project timeline
is to complete design work by Spring 2021 and construction complete by mid to late 2022. City Council received report and provided feedback on proposed project. (4) Cal OES Type III Brush Engine Assignment. This is part of a CA Mutual Aid Program. Approved by City Council. (5) COVID-19 Status Report. San Diego is now in the #1 Purple Tier per current CA health order. City Council received report. (6) Extending COVID-19 Relief Measures. El Cajon Recreation Programs have been changed to video instruction. El Cajon Recreation Department and El Cajon Police Department gave out 32,000 pieces of candy for a drive-thru Halloween event. Also held a community outdoor movie. City Council extended COVID-19 Relief Measures to June 30, 2021. Joint Councilmember Report: Staff to prepare a Resolution for more local control over CA control to governing in conjunction with other San Diego County cities. Approved by City Council. The next City Council meeting will be held on December 8 at 3pm. The public may view the meeting on the City’s website. Please visit https://www. cityofelcajon.us/videostreaming for more details. Sandy Renard, Editor, East County Community Times
NOV 21 - NOV 27, 2020
THE EAST COUNTY COMMUNITY TIMES • YOUR COMMUNITY OUR COMMUNITY
Santee Celebrates 40 Years on December 1 Santee, November 12 – Santee, CA at one time a small farming town known as Cowlestown, has grown up. As the City of Santee turns 40 on Tuesday, December 1, the City of Santee and its community have a lot to celebrate. Over the past 40 years, Santee has become one of the best places to live, shop, and play. The City of Santee has partnered with some of Santee’s local dessert vendors otherwise known as “Sweet Treat Stops” to provide a complimentary sweet birthday treat on behalf of the City of Santee, all day long (while supplies last). “This partnership is helping our local businesses while spreading birthday cheer across the entire City. Especially at a time when we all need a little cheering up,” says Bree Humphrey the City’s Marketing Coordinator. To view the Official Sweet Treat Stop Map, go to: (LINK #1). All Treat Stops are in Santee. Official Sweet Treat Stop Locations: Santee City Hall-10601 N Magnolia Avenue; Gourmet sweet treats handcraft by Lantern Crest’s Executive Chef Mario Esparza; 11am-6pm; Drive-thru map (LINK #2). Bagel & Donut Bar9720 Mission Gorge Road, Suite E; Dessert TBA; 5am-8pm. Chick-fil-A Santee-off site distribution of treats at Santee City Hall; Brownie. Dairy Queen-70 Town Center Parkway; Small soft serve cone vanilla or chocolate; 11am8pm. Eccentric International Chefs-8925 Carlton Hills Blvd; Mini cupcake, mini cookie, or macaroon; 4:30am-4pm. Go Get Yogurt-9802 N Magnolia Avenue, Suite 1, Santee; Special birthday size frozen yogurt with one topping of customer’s choice; 11am-9:30pm. Honey Donuts-10718 Woodside Avenue; Donut, coffee, hot chocolate, muffin, or cookie;
24hrs. Kravings Fruit Bar-9740 Mission Gorge Road, Suite #D; Dessert TBA; 10:30am-8pm. Mary’s Donuts-8959 Carlton Hills Blvd; Donut; 24hrs. NatSweets-8840 N Magnolia Avenue, Suite #150; Chocolate chip or birthday cake cookie or a scoop of ice cream; 9am-5pm. The Coffee Corner-235 Town Center Parkway, Suite A; Mini acai bowl or Belgian waffle; 7:30am- 6pm. The Cupcake Store-9225 Carlton Hills Blvd, Suite 7; Mini cupcake; 10am-5:30pm. Whipped Cake Shop -Pathways Church Parking Lot, 9600 Carlton Hills Blvd; Gingerbread cheesecake bite; 10am-6pm. At 7pm, The birthday celebratration will conclude in the evening with two simultaneous LIVE fireworks shows to be launched from Town Center Community Park and West Hills Park. Choreographed music will be available will a link to listen to be posted prior to the event. Firework locations will be closed to the public on December 1 to ensure compliance with public health orders. Town Center Community Park East and West Hills High School parking lots will be closed. Please view these live spectacular displays from your home, yard, or somewhere nearby. Please keep pets indoors during the fireworks. For updated Santee 40th Birthday information go to: (LINK #3). For questions and more information, email specialevents@cityofsanteeca. gov or bhumphrey@ cityofsanteeca.gov Here is to 40 more years of prosperity, happiness, and advancement. The future is bright in Santee, where we can all Do More, Due East. Bree Humphrey, City of Santee Marketing Coordinator and Sandy Renard, Editor, East County Community Times
conference at the San Diego County Operations Center. Speakers included Supervisor Kristin Gaspar, who said, “It is critical that San Diegans are prepared before a disaster strikes. Community preparedness and peer-to-peer networks can literally save lives and help our first responders during and after a disaster” They have partnered with local elected officials such as California State Senator, Ben Hueso, who mentioned that the idea is to, “focus on building resiliency within San Diego’s most vulnerable communities, especially in the rural parts of my district for the destructive and deadly wildfires ahead. We’re empowering non-profit organizations and emergency responders to work together to prepare for emergencies because California is at its best when we look out of each other.” Maximizing local partnerships, the Listos California Campaign brought together the Rock Church, Catholic Charities, and Ready America to highlight earthquake preparedness at their press conference on October 14. In light of the Great Shakeout that took place on the October 15, we showcased the Great Shakeout Machine which simulated a real earthquake. Listos California believes everyone needs access to this crucial information. For
El Cajon November 16 – Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges are preparing for the spring 2021 semester with a focus on supporting student success through the dual impact of the pandemic and economic uncertainty. The spring semester begins February 1 with some intersession classes to be held January 4-30 during the semester break. Registration begins Monday, November16, for returning students, and Wednesday, December 2, for new students enrolling at the East County Colleges. With most classes being held online, Grossmont and Cuyamaca College have found innovative new ways to offer instruction and serve students. They include: (1) Virtual campuses for students at Cuyamaca College (LINK #1) and Grossmont College (LINK #2) that offer a repository of information and resources for students navigating online. (2) Virtual help desks that offer Zoom sessions with student ambassadors to offer peer assistance on issues
with gathering feedback from the La Mesa community on its ideal qualities for the next Police Chief. Feedback will include input from the City Council, the Citizen Public Safety Oversight Task Force, City staff, the Police Department, and focus groups with community leaders. An online community survey will also be conducted. The recruitment process is expected to take
like applying for admission or filling out forms. (3) Wireless access points in parking lots and open areas at both campuses to accommodate students in need of free internet access. (4) Food drives for students in need because of the economic effects of the pandemic. (5) Laptop and hotspot loaner programs at both campuses. (6) Thousands of students have benefited from grants that were distributed as the result of funding the colleges received through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, along with grants from the Foundation for Grossmont & Cuyamaca Colleges, and other program and college funding. “In these difficult times, it is important that our colleges remain steadfast in offering as many options as possible to help our students thrive, both academically and emotionally,” said Lynn Neault, Chancellor of the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District. She noted that online courses make it easier for a wider range of students to attend classes.
For example, a San Diego State University student could find some Grossmont or Cuyamaca College courses that will fulfill university requirements at a much lower cost. A high school student who wants to get a head start on their higher education could take Grossmont or Cuyamaca College classes for free without leaving home. A limited number of courses will be offered oncampus to accommodate labs and other classes that can’t easily be taught remotely, including nursing, allied health, and career technical education. Cuyamaca College is tentatively planning to offer 39 in-person classes in the spring compared to two for the current fall semester. Grossmont College is preparing to boost its on-campus classes from 52 currently to 73 for the spring. For information about registration, schedules, and financial aid at Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges, go to: (LINK #3). Della Elliott, Marketing & Communications Office/ Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District
Senator Jones Earns High Vote Score from California Chamber El Cajon, November 18 – On its recent “Cal Chamber Vote Record,” the California Chamber of Commerce announced that Senator Brian Jones (R-Santee) received a 90% score, concurring with the Chamber’s position on 9 out of 10 major jobs, business and economy related measures. (He missed one vote due to illness). “Senator Brian Jones is a strong leader in the fight for jobs and businesses in California,” stated Marty Wilson, Executive Vice President of the California Chamber of Commerce. “During these troubled times
of government shutdowns and increasing regulations, Senator Jones is a solid advocate for the workers and business owners in East and North San Diego County.” Jones’ career vote ratings by the Chamber: 2020: 90% 2019: 100% 2016: 94% 2015: 100% 2014: 93% 2013: 100% 2012: 100% 2011: 92% Senator Brian W. Jones
is Chair of the Senate Republican Caucus and was elected to the California State Senate in 2018 representing the 38th Senate District which includes Alpine, Escondido, Lemon Grove, El Cajon, La Mesa, Santee, Poway, San Marcos, Lakeside, Valley Center, Rancho Santa Fe, Julian, Ramona, Rancho San Diego, Bonsall, Fallbrook, Borrego Springs, and parts of the City of San Diego. Craig Wilson for Senator Brian W. Jones
Vacancies on College District Citizens Bond Oversight Committee
more information, download their Disaster Guide at (LINK #1). John Mendez, Mendez Strategy Group, Inc.
La Mesa Hires Company to Assist with Police Chief Replacement Search La Mesa, November 17 - The City of La Mesa has hired executive recruiting firm Teri Black & Company (TBC) to conduct a nationwide search for its next Police Chief. TBC was selected following the issuance of a Request for Qualifications and evaluation process by the City. TBC has successfully recruited ten police chiefs for California cities over the past 24 months. TBC has been tasked
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In-Person Classes on Tap as Spring Semester Approaches
ARE YOU READY? Listos California Campaign November 18 - The Listos California Campaign has been launched to encourage Californians to ready our most vulnerable populations for disasters such as wildfires, earthquakes, floods, and public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic, before disasters strike. The statewide campaign, designed by the Governor’s office and in partnership with CALOES, aims to encourage people to prepare for an emergency in advance by implementing five important steps– such as getting local alerts, making a plan, packing a go bag, building a stay box, and helping friends and neighbors. The CEO of Catholic Charities, Appaswamy “Vino” Pajanor, said, “The Catholic Charities of San Diego celebrates Listos California’s significant milestone in reaching more than 11 million Californians with COVID-19 information and touching a further 649,000 with direct person-to-person contact related to disaster preparedness.” San Diego and the rest of California has the risk every year of wildfires, and in addition we are currently weathering a global pandemic. With the threat of more power shut offs looming and ongoing risk of earthquakes, a new culture of preparedness is essential in the Golden State. On Tuesday, September 8, Listos California hosted a press
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approximately three months. The fee for recruiting services will be $18,000 with an additional budget of $7,400 for reimbursable expenses. For additional information on the recruitment process, go to: (LINK #1). Jessica Mackey, Executive Assistant to the City Manager, City of La Mesa
El Cajon, November 18 – Two East County residents, a representative of a senior citizen group and an individual with expertise in finance or accounting, are needed to fill a pair of vacancies on the GrossmontCuyamaca Community College District’s (GCCCD) Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC). The CBOC is tasked with assuring accountability for funds connected to Proposition V, a $398 million construction bond measure approved by East County voters in 2012. A total of three seats will be vacated with appointees completing their terms, but the seat for a member of a College Advisory Committee will be filled internally. An application form is posted at (LINK #1) and must be emailed by January 13 to Stephen.johnson@gafcon.com The committee’s advisory role is to review and report on district spending of taxpayers’ money for construction and to provide a public accounting of the District’s compliance with legal requirements. Committee members appointed by the Governing Board include at least ten community members with expertise in constructionrelated fields such as architecture, construction management, or civil engineering; a financial or
accounting-related field, as well as representatives of business, student, senior citizen, and taxpayer organizations. The GCCCD Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee was first formed after the passage of Prop R, the $207 million bond measure passed in 2002, which funded the addition or reconstruction of 13 major projects. Prop V is designed to continue the work started by Prop. R to address longstanding facility, infrastructure, and technology needs. Prop V projects (LINK #2) include the recently completed Performing and Visual Arts Center at Grossmont College and the Ornamental Horticulture Complex currently under construction at Cuyamaca College. CBOC membership involves at least a two-year term with members in good standing eligible for up to three consecutive two-year terms. The volunteer position requires residency within College District boundaries (LINK #3) and attendance of four quarterly meetings and about a half-dozen subcommittee meetings annually. Della Elliott, Marketing & Communications Office/Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District
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Mother Goose Parade 2015 - 2019
El Cajon - Sunday, November 22 – Due to Covid-10, The Mother Goose Parade is virtual this year. Photos in this issue were taken from the East County Community Times and The East County Herald (Ret.) from Mother Goose Parades from 2015 to 2019. The 1.25 mile long parade route began on West Main Street at El Cajon Boulevard, traveled east on Main Street to First Street, and finished by turning left onto First Street. Each parade had more than 100 entries that included motorized floats, giant helium balloons, local celebrities, movie & television celebrities, marching bands, drill teams, dancers, equestrian units, performing artists, special characters, clowns, specialty vehicles, and Santa Claus. The Mother Goose parade is operated by the Mother Goose Foundation.
Sandy Renard, Editor, East County Community Times Photos - Jay Renard/Publisher East County Community Times.
More Photos: www.ecctimes.com
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Pathway’s 5K Turkey Trot 2015
Santee, Thursday, November 26 - Thanksgiving Day in 2015 was the 6th Annual Pathways Community Church Waddle & Trot 5K and Fun Run. Runners & walkers of all levels participated. The race started and finished at the Pathways Center in Santee and looped around through scenic Santee Lakes. The 1/4 mile Fun Run took place at the Pathways Center campus. All proceeds collected will Santee Santas and the Santee Food Bank. The first 1000 5K registrants received a T-shirt and a commemorative race medallion. All participants in the Kids Fun Run received a finisher’s medal.
Sandy Renard, Editor, East County Community Times Photos - Jay Renard/Publisher East County Community Times.
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Your Community Calendar
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Everyone deserves a chance at a higher education. ScholarShare 529, California’s College Savings Plan, is pleased to offer the 2020 Matching Grant Program aimed at helping families like yours make the most out of their college savings. Don’t miss this opportunity to jump-start your savings and maximize every dollar. Help ensure you can give your child something all parents want for their children—a bright future. Visit ScholarShare529.com/mgp for more details and complete terms and conditions. MATCHING GRANT BENEFITS:
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
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A dollar-for-dollar match up to $200
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Another $25 for establishing a monthly automatic contribution plan of $25 or more
Families must have an annual income of $75,000 OR LESS to be eligible
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Account must be opened by a parent or legal guardian
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Beneficiary (future student) must be 14 years of age or younger
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Parent/legal guardian and beneficiary must have a valid Social Security Number or federal tax ID number
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Funds can be used at universities, community colleges or trade schools, and for other approved educational expenses
800.544.5248 scholarshare@treasurer.ca.gov ScholarShare529.com/mgp
Eligible parents/guardians must be California residents at enrollment, have a valid Social Security number or a federal tax ID number, and have an adjusted gross annual income of $75,000 or less. 529 plans are generally not subject to asset and property limit calculations in public benefit programs, such as CalWORKs and CalFresh. However, applicants who are receiving public benefits are advised to consult their public benefits counselors prior to participating in this program. Beneficiaries must be 14 years or younger during the calendar year of enrollment and have a valid Social Security number or a federal tax ID number. Program participants must enroll online at ScholarShare529.com/mgp. To learn more about the California 529 College Savings Plan, its investment objectives, tax benefits, risks, and costs, please see the Plan Description at ScholarShare529.com. Read it carefully. Check with your home state to learn if it offers tax or other benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds or protection from creditors for investing in its own 529 plan. Consult your legal or tax professional for tax advice. Investments in the Plan are neither insured nor guaranteed and there is the risk of investment loss. If the funds aren’t used for qualified higher education expenses, a 10% penalty tax on earnings (as well as federal and state income taxes) may apply. Non-qualified withdrawals may also be subject to an additional 2.5% California tax on earnings. TIAA-CREF Individual & Institutional Services, LLC, Member FINRA, distributor and underwriter for the California 529 College Savings Plan. 1055741
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Z O N I N G O R D I N A N C E A M E N D M E N T: S H E LT E R FA C I L I T I E S The County of San Diego Planning & Development Services (PDS) is hosting webinars to receive input for the amendments to the Zoning Ordinance that will assist the County to assist persons experiencing homelessness through shelter facilities; as well as to minimize the impacts associated with homelessness on County facilities. These webinars will cover project background and objectives, and provide an interactive forum to answer your questions and collect your thoughts. All webinars will cover the same information, so please pick a date and time convenient for you. Please register in advance using the links provided below.
Webinar #1
Webinar #2
November 17, 2020
December 2, 2020
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Link: Microsoft Teams Hyperlink
Link: Microsoft Teams Hyperlink
Phone: +1 619-343-2539,,433867061# United States, San Diego Phone Conference ID: 433 867 061#
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO 5510 Overland Ave, San Diego, Ca 92123
www.sandiegocounty.gov
Phone: +1 619-343-2539,,294169514# United States, San Diego Phone Conference ID: 294 169 514#