East County Community Times June 13 Issue by Jay Renard

Santee Fido Fest Dog Festival Pg 6 - 7

JUN 7 - 13, 2019 Vol. 1 No. 19

The East County Community Times

East Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Only Photojournalism Publication

Senator Brian Jones Recognizes Dee Dean as Senate 38th District

Woman of the Year Get Your Community Fix! www.ecctimes.com

NEWS In the

PAGE TWO • JUN 7 - 13, 2019

Dee Dean, 2019 Senate 38th District Woman of the Year

El Cajon – Friday June 7 - Senator Brian Jones recognized Dee Dean, retired owner/publisher of the East County Herald as California Senate 38th District 2019 Woman of the Year. This award was originally presented to Dean in Sacramento on March 4 of this year. Jones presented this award a second time locally at the San Diego-East County Chamber of Commerce June First Friday Breakfast. Sacramento – Monday, March 4 - Dee Dean was named California Senate District 38 Woman of the Year 2019. Dee Dean is a

kind, pas¬sionate, and intelligent leader in East County. Today, she was on the California State Senate Floor to be introduced as Senate District 38’s Woman of the Year. She has spent countless time, energy, and resources for businesses and organizations in our community including East County Herald, Stoney’s Kids Legacy, San Diego East County Chamber of Com¬merce, St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center, and more. With an indomitable spirit, Dee battles Multiple Sclerosis. She educates the public, inspires

Dianne’s Corner News and notes from County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Dianne Jacob

others facing similar battles, and earned the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Star Volunteer Award. I was happy to see Dee and her husband, Curt in the State Capitol. Congratulations, Dee!

Santee Santas Foundation Recognized as Senate District 38’s Nonprofit of the Year Santee – In partnership with

the Christmas spirit to some 300

California

needy families in the community.

State Legislature celebrated non-

The Santee Santas Foundation’s

profit organizations from across

senior outreach program ensures

the state last Wednesday. Each

seniors who are living alone or in

legislator recognized a nonprofit

senior care facilities are not for-

organization from his or her dis-

gotten over the holidays.

CalNonprofits,

the

trict for the vital services they provide their communities.

“Tonya and her all-star, all-volunteer team at the Santee Santas

Senator Brian Jones’ selec-

Foundation has become one of

tion from Senate District 38 is

the most recognized, respected,

the Santee Santas Foundation.

and appreciated nonprofit organi-

The organization is known for its

zations in our community. They

annual holiday children’s toy and

embody the spirit of Christmas

food drive focused on bringing

by bringing an entire community

together each year to deliver joy and fellowship to hundreds of children and seniors in need. I am honored to be Santee Santas’ representative, and I look forward to helping them serve more people each year.”

Wildfire worries: San Diego County is stepping up its fire preparedness ground game. Following up on proposals I announced in my State of the County address earlier this year, the Board of Supervisors recently okayed several initiatives to better protect people and property in our most fire-prone areas. The improvements include doubling the number of annual property safety inspections, from 10,000 to 20,000, and the creation of a grant program to encourage homeowners to install ember-resistant vents and other fire-resistant materials. Deadly fires last year across California, and the tragic destruction of places like Paradise, remind us that disaster could strike here again any time. The county has invested more than $500 million since 2003 on fire protection improvements. Go to readysandiego.org and see how you can better safeguard your family during a disaster. Our beautiful backcountry: Thanks to a recently approved land purchase, the county is expanding the scenic Ramona Grasslands by 123 acres. The acquisition means the preserve now spans more than 3,600 acres – bigger than Del Mar and

Solana Beach combined. Thanks to the community and county staff, the preserve is turning into a real treasure and it’s a perfect spot for families to enjoy the Great Outdoors. Public safety first: Community leaders, first-responders, wildfire evacuees and others recently joined me next to state Route 67 to call out SANDAG’s executive director for his plan to shelve badly needed safety improvements on the highway and other arteries across the county. As many of you know, the fall 2007 wildfire season was a nightmare. A half-million people were ordered to evacuate their communities and had to use escape routes like SR-67. SANDAG promised voters it would improve these major roads, these lifelines, not leave them high and dry. Public safety must always come first. For more District 2 news, go to www.diannejacob.com or follow me on Facebook and Twitter. If I can assist with a county issue, please call my office at 619-5315522 or email dianne.jacob@ sdcounty.ca.gov Have a great East County day! Dianne

Lakeside Community Archway Sign Project The Lakeside Community Archway Project is a collaborative effort of Helping Our Way and the Lakeside Chamber of Commerce. The Archway sign proposed location will span Maine Avenue just south of Mapleview Street. The sign will be 67 feet wide and 32-1/2 feet high. The sign will be a dual facing sign providing a welcome to the Maine Avenue District and opportunities for promoting upcoming Lakeside events through an interchangeable

banner capability. The banner use, insurance, and maintenance will be provided by the Lakeside Chamber of Commerce and allow for community groups to ‘rent’ banner space for their events. The total cost of the project is estimated to be $85,000 and anticipated completion in 2019. We are looking for donations of labor and/or materials to complete the project. For information on the specific needs, please contact Kathy Kassel at (619) 561-1031 or Jerry Mosier at (619) 749-1102.

On The Cover El Cajon – Friday June 7 - Senator Brian Jones recognized Dee Dean, retired owner/publisher of the East County Herald as California Senate 38th District 2019 Woman of the Year.

Cover: Jay Renard Cover design: Jay Renard / The East Community Times

Times Business

SERVICE DIRECTORY PAGE THREE • JUN 7 - 13, 2019

Your Voice in the Community San Diego East County Chamber of Commerce

Office: 619.440.6161 Fax: 619.460.6164 info

WWW.EASTCOUNTYCHAMBER.ORG

YOUR AD HERE!

Simply mail your business card, along with your check for $25 per week (four week minimum = $100) and mail to:

The East County Herald

Business Services P.O. Box 2568 • Alpine, CA 91903 It’s that easy!

10315 Mission Gorge Road • Santee • 92071

www.SanteeChamber.com Phone: 619.449.6572 Fax: 619.562.7906

RONN HALL INSURANCE AND NOTARY SERVICES Office 619-562-8585 Cell 619-670-1200 RonnHall@RonnHall.com

RonnHall.com CA License 0723568

4567 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 98052 www.yourcompanywebsite.com

FREE ESTIMATE

HOUSE CLEANING ROCIO & ANA

(619)

884.1798

MARIA CAMERON

VICE PRESIDENT

office 206.555.0123 cell 206.555.0133 sample@email.com 4567 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 98052 www.yourcompanywebsite.com

References Available

A Culture of Generosity...

Stoney’s Kids Legacy

MARIA CAMERON

VICE PRESIDENT

office 206.555.0123 cell 206.555.0133 sample@email.com 4567 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 98052 ‘It’s All About The Kids!’ www.yourcompanywebsite.com A Non-Profit Organization Benefitting East County Kids... Our Future!

office 206.555.0123 cell 206.555.0133 sample@email.com 4567 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 98052 www.yourcompanywebsite.com

P.O. Box 2568 • Alpine, CA 91903

www.stoneyskidslegacy.org

MARIA CAMERON

VICE PRESIDENT

office 206.555.0123 cell 206.555.0133 sample@email.com 4567 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 98052 www.yourcompanywebsite.com

MARIA CAMERON

VICE PRESIDENT

COMMUNITY Matters PAGE FOUR • JUN 7 - 13, 2019

La Mesa Man With ALS Disease to Meet With D.C. Politicos

It began with unexplainable fatigue then weakness in his left arm and shoulder for Jessy Ybarra of La Mesa. “I regularly worked out with my trainer 3 days a week and it seemed like one day, my left side just couldn’t keep up with shoulder presses and pushups anymore,” said Ybarra. “Then, my left pinkie finger started curling up. Then, there was a twitch on my left triceps.” After numerous trips to the doctor and a year of infusion treatments for what was believed to be an autoimmune disorder, the September 2017 diagnosis was confirmed: ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord for which there is no known cause, treatment or cure. “I’m grateful that I’m progressing slower than most and I’m still able to walk and get around, but I’m not sure how much longer I will have the use of my hands or mobility on my own two feet before I need a wheelchair,” said Ybarra, 54, who works as a vice president for a local technology company. He spells his first name “Jessy” but it is pronounced as “Jesse.” Jessy and wife, Arlene have agreed to serve as legislative advocates for the local ALS Association Greater San Diego Chapter. As representatives of the local chapter, they will travel to Washington, D.C., June 9-11, for the 2019 National ALS Advocacy Conference. Activities will include visiting Capital Hill to share personal stories with members of Congress and advocate for additional funding for research and care services. “Our comments to the legislators and their staff members will focus on the ALS Association’s mission to find a cure and improve the lives of those living with and affected by ALS,” said Ybarra. “I

feel a unique responsibility, purpose and determination to speak for those who have lost their voice while I still have mine. I’m looking forward to this experience.” Ybarra has worked for the past 29 years for CollegeSource, Inc. a Kearny Mesa technology company offering software solutions that help higher educational institutions with degree audit, degree planning and transfer articulation. Jessy and Arlene’s blended family includes Jessy’s daughter and granddaughter and Arlene’s son. “We’re very proud of Jessy and his courageous efforts to advocate for ALS in the nation’s capital,” said Steve Becvar, executive director, ALS Association Greater San Diego Chapter. “He is living proof that help is available to families who are impacted by this devastating disease. Our patient load is expanding because we’re increasing our public outreach and awareness efforts and receiving more referrals as people learn about the resources we’re ready to provide.” Becvar said medical expenses associated with ALS can cost up to $250,000 annually, depleting families’ life savings. “Our chapter offers all services to people with ALS and their families free of charge,” he said. “We are always in need of support to help us expand our direct patient care and provide access to treatment and services that enhance quality of life, care and support.” ALS, a rapidly, progressive neurodegenerative disease of the motor neurons, weakens muscles and impacts physical function. Eventually, people living with ALS lose the ability to initiate and control muscle moment, which often leads to total paralysis. Nearly 30,000 Americans are living with ALS at any given time, with an average life expectancy of just two to five years from the diagnosis of initial symptoms.

Currently, ALS officials said more than 200 San Diego and Imperial county residents are registered with the local ALS chapter. In 2017, 125 San Diego County residents with ALS were registered with the local chapter. “Our patient load is expanding because we’re increasing our public outreach and awareness efforts and receiving more referrals as people learn about the resources we’re ready to provide,” said Becvar. The ALS Association is the only national not-for-profit voluntary health organization dedicated solely to fighting against ALS on every front through research, public policy and care services. The mission of the ALS Association is to find a cure for and improve living with ALS. By leading the way in global research, providing assistance for people with ALS through a nationwide network of chapters, coordinating multidisciplinary care through certified clinical care centers, and fostering government partnerships, the ALS Association builds hope and enhances quality of life while aggressively searching for new treatments and a cure. The Greater San Diego Chapter, chartered in February 2013, is one of 39 chapters nationwide. The San Diego chapter works closely with the ALS San Diego Clinic at the University of California San Diego, which has been certified as a Center of Excellence by the national ALS organization. At its San Diego offices, the local chapter also showcases an ALS bedroom and bathroom that is equipped with features and benefits that would be helpful to people with ALS. For more information about the ALS Association Greater San Diego Chapter, visit www.alsasd.org. Rick Griffin Marketing Communications/Public Relations, Advertising

Another Commencement for the Record Books at Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges Marking another record year, Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges last week awarded 5,652 degrees and certificates to 2,699 graduates, the largest graduating class in the college district’s history. Over the last decade, graduate numbers have grown by 78%, while the number of degrees and certificates they’ve earned rose 178% -- this despite an overall decline in enrollment of about 13 percent over the same period. “Our colleges’ record numbers of graduates, degrees and certificates is the result of our faculty and staff’s laser focus on helping students stay on track to achieve their dreams,” Chancellor Cindy Miles said. Three student speakers each told moving stories of their struggles so representative of the challenges many community college students face. Grossmont College student speaker, Shakur Collins described at the June 5 commencement how she became ill in 2015 as an incoming freshman at the University of California, Irvine. After four months of tests, doctors found out she had a build-up of cerebral spinal fluid that caused a permanent loss of most of her vision. She had to leave UC Irvine, losing thousands of dollars in scholarships. She enrolled at Grossmont College in 2016, determined to pursue a new direction in her life. Collins sought help from the college’s Accessibility Resource Center and has been able to maintain straight A’s and is set to transfer in the fall as a psychology major at UC San Diego. She

aspires to a career in the field of group and organizational leadership. “I made the choice to move forward. It was hard to rebuild my life, but I have managed to maintain straight A’s while here at Grossmont,” she said. “When the going gets tough, you don’t fold. You adapt.” Cuyamaca College’s Akila Scott, one of two student speakers at Cuyamaca, said she was the first of her six siblings to pursue a university degree. “I thought starting off at a community college meant that I was less than the other kids who got into USC or SDSU. But I was completely wrong. I have gained something valuable here that I don’t think I would have gotten anywhere else,” Akila said. She is transferring to CSU Long Beach. Dawod Rafoka, Cuyamaca College’s second student speaker, grew up in northern Iraq, but was forced to leave at 17 because of terrorist attacks. Two years later, he settled in El Cajon and began taking ESL classes at Cuyamaca College. “With the help provided by the services here, I was able to overcome the thoughts and feelings of “This wasn’t meant for me. I am out of place, or maybe I’m not smart enough to do this,” Dawod told his fellow graduates at the June 6 commencement. “I’ve gone from a person who thought that education was not for him to a person who is transferring today with a 4.0 GPA in computer engineering.” Dawod, who recently became a naturalized American citizen, is transferring to San Diego State University this fall.

JUN 7 - 13, 2019

THE EAST COUNTY COMMUNITY TIMES • YOUR COMMUNITY OUR COMMUNITY

PAGE FIVE

COLLEGE COPY CENTER Quality

Value

Experience

Color Copies Business Forms Digital Input/Output Color Posters

Newsletters Business Cards Blueprints Manuals

(619) 697-2355 Fax: 619-697-7760 Send Digital Files to: copyguys@collegecopycenter.com 7939 El Cajon Blvd.

La Mesa, CA 91942

www.collegecopycenter.com

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

Guests must be at least 21 years of age to enter the Casino. Guests must be at least 21 years of age to drink alcoholic beverages. Guests under 21 years of age are permitted in The Buffet only, but must be accompanied by an adult. Families are welcome at the Viejas Outlets and the Viejas Hotel. Please play responsibly. For help with problem gambling, call 800.426.2537

www.viejas.com

2018

T R AV E L G U I D E

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THE EAST COUNTY COMMUNITY TIMES â&#x20AC;¢ YOUR COMMUNITY OUR COMMUNITY

JUN 7 - 13, 2019

THE EAST COUNTY COMMUNITY TIMES • YOUR COMMUNITY OUR COMMUNITY

PAGE SEVEN

Santee Fido Fest Dog Festival

Santee - Saturday, June 8 – The City of Santee held its 4th Annual Fido Fest Dog Festival at Town Center Community Park. Dogs were welcome at this furry four-legged friendly event featuring: demonstrations, exhibitors, dog adoptions from rescue groups, discounted vaccinations, microchipping, fly ball, dog licensing, heartworm & flea preventatives, contests, giveaways, live entertainment, food booths for dogs and their human companions, and a doggie photo booth. Sponsors of the event include Camp Bow Wow, Waste Management, HomeFed, San Diego County Credit Union, and Allegiance Heating & Air Conditioning, FURology Pet Spaw, and Whissel Realty. Stage demonstrations included: Guide Dogs for the Blind, Behavior Buddies dog training, the Santee Fire Department Search & Rescue team, and the San Diego County Sheriff’s Dept. K-9 unit. San Diego Flyball had a hurdle relay race, where swift-pawed dogs will competed for treats and bragging rights. Prizes were awarded to winners of a dog owner look-a-like contest, a doggie cake walk, smallest dog, largest dog, and a best trick competition. A dog portrait artist was available to sketch a caricature of your best buddy. Dozens of vendors showcased the latest and greatest in pet products and services, from dog training to doggie clothing. Photos by Jay Renard/Community Times

JUN 7 - 13, 2019

THE EAST COUNTY COMMUNITY TIMES • YOUR COMMUNITY OUR COMMUNITY

San Diego East County Albondigas El Cajon – Wednesday, June 5 was the San Diego East County Albondigas group meeting. The event was held at On the Border Restaurant in El Cajon. 30 attendees were at the lunch networking with other attendees. The non-partisan group consisted of local elected officials, candidates for office, and local businesses. Everyone enjoyed a buffet Mexican lunch. The next meeting will be July 31 at On the Border in El Cajon. A group photo will be taken. Photos by Jay Renard/Community Times

Thai Thai Santee Restaurant Grand Opening Santee - Wednesday, June 5 - The Santee Chamber of Commerce held a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Thai Thai Santee. This restaurant was formerly known as Oishii Japanese-Thai Cuisine Restaurant. They are featuring Thai and Vegetarian food with a newly expanded menu. The owners showcased some of their favorite dishes including Tom Yum soup, cream cheese won tons, egg rolls, curry, and Pad Thai. Photos by Jay Renard/Community Times

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JUN 7 - 13, 2019

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THE EAST COUNTY COMMUNITY TIMES • YOUR COMMUNITY OUR COMMUNITY

Rancho San Diego

Every Great Event Begins and Ends at Hooleys!

2955 Jamacha Rd. 619.670.7468

La Mesa

5500 Grossmont Center Dr. 619.713.6900

Your Community Calendar Saturday, September 14, 2019 • 5:30-9:30pm Town Center Community Park East Tickets & Reserved Tables go on SALE March 1, 2019

Town Center Community Park East 550 Park Center Drive, Santee June 13 20 27

James Kruk & The Big Boss Men Country Night Patrick Howard Trampus Band Upstream

Elvis Tribute modern country Rock Caribbean, Reggae, Soca

July

Supporting People, Parks & Programs

Blues Night Bill Magee Blues Band

Lowdown Dirty Blues

Three Chord Justice

Premier country Band

Bump City Brass

Funk & Soul Dance Band

August

TICKET INCLUDES:

Unlimited Food Samples (While Supplies Last) Beverage Samples of Beer & Wine (While Supplies Last) Commemorative Sampling Cup & Lanyard Cup Holder

www.SanteeBluegrassFestival.com

Must be 21 years old & up · All Sales Final Must have ticket & ID to check in · We are not responsible for lost tickets

If you are interested in becoming a vendor or sponsor, please contact Jon Shellhammer: (619) 258-4100 x219 • jshellhammer@cityofsanteeca.gov

Straight Six

Rock, Rhythm & Blues

Wingstock Back to the Garden

Music from the Summer of 1969 Tribute to the Music of Queen Variety Musical Entertainment

Queen Nation

The Mighty Untouchables

This free communit y event has been made possible by the support of event sponsors:

Thursdays, 6:30

2019

City of Santee & Barona www.SanteeSummerConcerts.com

Please Join Us to Support Our Kids endless summer 2019

Friday, July 12 Singing Hills Golf Resort by Sycuan

Saturday, June 8, 2019 9:00 am – 1:00 pm 550 Park Center Drive, Santee www.FidoFestSantee.com

For More Information 619-440-1600 jen@bgcec.org

JUN 7 - 13, 2019

THE EAST COUNTY COMMUNITY TIMES • YOUR COMMUNITY OUR COMMUNITY

East County Chamber First Friday Breakfast El Cajon - Friday, June 7 – The San Diego-East County Chamber of Commerce held its monthly First Friday Breakfast at Rock Church in El Cajon. Sponsors included SDG&E, Nansook Framing+Art, and The UPS Stores of El Cajon. A special presentation was given by SDG&E on their new “Time of Use” program. Breakfast was provided by the Broken Yolk of Rancho San Diego, coffee by Jack’s Coffee in Parkway Plaza, and bottled water by Costco in Santee. Senator Brian Jones recognized Dee Dean, Owner/Publisher of the East County Herald (retired) as California Senate 38th District 2019 Woman of the Year. Rick Wilson, the new President/CEO for the East County Chamber, was the emcee. Photos by Jay Renard/Community Times

PAGE TEN

JUN 7 - 13, 2019

THE EAST COUNTY COMMUNITY TIMES • YOUR COMMUNITY OUR COMMUNITY

East County Chamber Grip It and Rip It Golf Tournament El Cajon – Thursday, June 6 - The East County Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Grip It and Rip It Golf Tournament. The event was held at the Singing Hills Golf Resort at Sycuan and included a round of golf, lunch, a gift bag, and two free drinks on the golf course. This event was the perfect opportunity to network with other individuals and business leaders in a relaxing and fun atmosphere. In addition to a great time on the course, an Awards Reception and Dinner/Mixer immediately followed the tournament. Event sponsors included Cabrillo Credit Union, Elite Smog & Auto, Hacienda Casa Blanca, Home Street Bank, Kaiser Permanante, Penske Ford La Mesa, San Diego Eye Professionals, Team Kia El Cajon, Team XL, and Waste Management. Photos by Jay Renard/East County Community Times

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