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ADVANCING HEALTHY COMMUNITIES: SOME AREAS OF LAKESIDE ARE NEGLECTED AND RUN DOWN, WHILE OTHERS ARE SPIFFY AND NICE

By David R. Shorey, East County Program Manager, Institute for Public Strategies

Photos courtesy IPS

March 4, 2023 (Lakeside) -- For almost 20 years, the Lakeside Community Collaborative has worked to enhance the health and safety of Lakeside residents. The Collaborative is made up of representatives from schools, law enforcement, chamber of commerce, public health organizations, and everyday Lakeside residents. Through monthly meetings, the group shares information and coordinates activities to address important issues facing Lakeside. This includes assessments of community conditions that could lead to substance use and abuse.

A “Walking Woodside” community assessment was conducted by the Lakeside Community Collaborative on a Saturday morning in February 2023. IPS was joined by a representative from the San Diego County Department of Homeless Solutions and Equitable Communities and a member of recently formed Lakeside Amity Group. We walked both sides of Woodside Avenue, between Winter Gardens Boulevard and Maine Avenue. A distance of about 1.4 miles.

The goal of the Collaborative was to not only conduct the assessment, but also encourage community engagement. We hope that this endeavor will bring awareness to issues like alcohol retail density. By physically walking down this street and taking in the environment, we were able to better identify with our own eyes, potential areas of concern. What we found was more than concerning, it was outright scary.


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CHIEF’S CORNER: ST. PATRICK’S DAY SAFETY TIPS

Don’t Press Your Luck This St. Patrick’s Day!

 

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

March 3, 2023 (San Diego) -- As we approach St. Patrick’s Day, we want everyone to celebrate responsibly. Here are some tips to help you safely navigate the festivities this year.


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FROM THE FIRE CHIEF’S CORNER: MUD, WATER AND DAMAGE – NOW WHAT?

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

February 26, 2023 (San Diego) -- Though the heavy rains have subsided, more rain is in the forecast. However, the danger will lurk with mudflow and erosion problems. Make sure you are prepared!

 

In the next few days, you might find your home and property damaged and you’ll be wondering how do I get this put back together?

 

Where do I start? 


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FROM THE FIRE CHIEF’S CORNER: IT’S SELF ESTEEM MONTH

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

 

How full is your self-esteem tank?

February 26, 2023 (San Diego) -- Self-esteem not only impacts how you feel about yourself, but also in your relationship with others. When self esteem is running high, life seems to fall right into place both in your personal and professional life. When your self-esteem tank is running low, it creates the exact opposite. This is why having low self-esteem can be such a serious problem. 


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DESTINATION EAST COUNTY: TOP FESTIVALS AND EVENTS FEB. 25-APRIL 22

East County News Service

February 20, 2023 (San Diego’s East County) -- This week’s Destination East County has a wide range of creative events, from Black History Month to Fido Fest, from birdwatching tips to the return of HoooleyFest, Touch-a-Truck, a liar’s contest in the desert, a harmonica festival in La Mesa, a chili cookoff in Lemon Grove, and an Earth Day Boulder Fair in Jacumba Hot Springs.


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ADVANCING HEALTHY COMMUNITIES: SANTEE ADDRESSES ITS PAST, LOOKS TO THE FUTURE FOR DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION AND AUTHENTICITY

By David R. Shorey, East County Program Manager, Institute for Public Strategies

February 10, 2023 (San Diego) -- When President Ronald Reagan said “There are no constraints on the human mind, no walls around the human spirit, no barriers to our progress except those we ourselves erect,” he was speaking to a joint session of Congress in a February, 1985 State of the Union Address. He could have been addressing the citizens and city leaders of Santee in 2020. That’s when the City Council passed a resolution recognizing that as a community, they had to actively work to be anti-racist. That included continuing to learn about, reflect on and incorporate anti-racist policies into City government and strengthen a future incompatible with hatred or racism in the Santee community and nation.


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DESTINATION EAST COUNTY: TOP FESTIVALS AND EVENTS FEB. 10-FEB. 28

By Miriam Raftery and Jonathan Goetz

February 3, 2023 (San Diego's East County) - This week’s destination East County features events in mid-to late February across San Diego’s inland region.

Hot happenings include a tribute to Michael Jackson at Sycuan, a candlelight concert in Jacumba, Valentine teas in Julian, black history month events at Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges, new moon fishing at Lake Jennings, Laurel and Hardy night in Spring Valley, birdwatching classes at Mission Trails, Fido Fest in Santee, Touch-a-Truck in Lakeside, and Hawkwatch in Ramona.


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FROM THE FIRE CHIEF’S CORNER: DUST IN THE WIND

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

 

January 29, 2023 (San Diego’s East County) -- We certainly have had our share of wind lately. Not to mention the unusually cold weather. This could affect your health!


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DESTINATION EAST COUNTY: TOP EVENTS JAN. 27-FEB. 25

By Jonathan Goetz and Miriam Raftery

 

January 21, 2023 (San Diego’s East County) – Upcoming festivities and events include concerts at The Magnolia in El Cajon and Viejas in Alpine, a star party, wildlife tracking and birding classes at Mission Trails, a play at Lamplighters Theatre in La Mesa and Hawkwatch raptor viewing in Ramona.


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ADVANCING HEALTHY COMMUNITIES: LEMON GROVE HANDLES CANNABIS LAW RESPONSIBLY

By David R. Shorey, East County Program Manager, Institute for Public Strategies

January 10,  2023 (Lemon Grove) -- Since the passage of Proposition 64 legalizing cannabis for recreational use, cities and counties across California have been attempting to meet the desires of the electorate while also balancing public health and safety. Local Control, the ability for cities and counties to regulate whether or how cannabis operations exist in their jurisdictions, was included in the original proposition. It often brings the fight for or against cannabis to city hall steps.


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FROM THE FIRE CHIEF’S CORNER: JANUARY IS CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

 

January 9, 2023 (San Diego) --  In the past 20 years, from 2001 to 2020, cancer death rates went down 27%. We all still have a lot of work to do!

Take charge with these Mayo Clinic tips such as eating a healthy diet and getting regular screenings.


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FROM THE FIRE CHIEF’S CORNER: THEY’LL LOVE YOU FOREVER WITH THIS GIFT

They’ll Love You Forever with This Gift! 

 

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

 

December 12, 2022 (San Diego) -- The holidays provide a good opportunity to spend quality time with family, friends, and co-workers. Rather than getting stressed about holiday obligations, think about these opportunities as making "deposits" in your relationship banks. The time you spend is an investment into the relationship's long-term success. 


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ADVANCING HEALTHY COMMUNITIES: SPRING VALLEY RESIDENTS MAKE EFFORTS TO REDUCE CRIME AND HARMS FROM DRUGS AND ALCOHOL, WHILE IMPROVING COMMUNITY HEALTH

By David R. Shorey, East County Program Manager, Institute for Public Strategies

December 12, 2022 (Spring Valley) -- Spring Valley residents have become agents of change for their community’s health  and welfare and their work is having significant results. The Spring Valley Community Alliance has become actively engaged in planning and land use issues and neighborhood health and safety concerns, while securing resources for community transformation.


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FROM THE FIRE CHIEF’S CORNER: CHRISTMAS SAFETY

Let’s Hang Out with Safety This Week!

By Fire Chief San DiGiovanna

December 7, 2022 (San Diego) - Many of us will be hanging Christmas decorations this week. Let’s start this week start from the outside and work our way in.


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FROM THE FIRE CHIEF’S CORNER: SAD CROSSING

Seasonal Affective Disorder Effects Over 3 million People in the U.S.

 

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

 

November 28, 2022 (San Diego) -- Feeling an onset of sadness? Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of mood disorder associated with seasonal changes. Commonly seen as depression arising during the winter months, it happens due to a disturbance in the circadian system of the body.


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DESTINATION EAST COUNTY: TOP FESTIVALS AND EVENTS NOV. 25-DEC.31

By Miriam Raftery

November 20, 2022 (San Diego’s East County) -- This week’s Destination East County features fun and fabulous holiday events coming up across San Diego’s inland region, as East County communities celebrate the season.


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ADVANCING HEALTHY COMMUNITIES IPS CELEBRATES 30TH ANNIVERARY, MAKING EQUITY THE PATH FORWARD

By David R. Shorey, East County Program Manager, Institute for Public Strategies

November 20, 2022 (San Diego) - The Institute for Public Strategies is a recognized leader in community-based drug and alcohol harm prevention workthroughout San Diego County. But what may not be known is the history and depth of our work.


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FROM THE FIRE CHIEF’S CORNER: GET READY FOR THE WINDS!

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

November 16, 2022 (San Diego) – ‘Tis the season for Santa Ana winds, starting this week in our region. Here are some wind safety tips.

The safest place to during high winds is indoors.


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CHIEF’S CORNER: THANKSGIVING SAFETY TIPS

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

November 13, 2022 (San Diego) -- Please Pass the Safety! And can you add some manners, too?

Thanksgiving signifies the beginning of the Holiday Season. Many of you are starting your Thanksgiving plans. Most will be spending more time in the kitchen preparing for the holidays.

It’s time to serve up these cooking safety tips. After all - Thanksgiving is the single worst day for residential fires!


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CHIEF’S CORNER: AN ADDED SAFETY CAUTION THIS HALLOWEEN - BEWARE OF RAINBOW FENTANYL MASQUERADING AS CANDY

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

October 22, 2022 (San Diego) -- With Halloween just weeks away, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is warning parents to check your children's candy very closely this year.


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EARTHTALK: HOW TO AFFORD HOUSEHOLD ENERGY EFFICIENCY UPGRADES

By Anagha Iyer, EarthTalk

October 5, 2022 (San Diego) - Dear EarthTalk: I’d like to upgrade the energy efficiency of my condo but can’t afford the up-front cost of new equipment and materials. Are there any federal or other programs designed to help working people afford to make such transitions?  —Paul B., Monroe, NY

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ADVANCING HEALTHY COMMUNITIES: NALOXONE IN SCHOOLS CAN HELP PREVENT OPIOID OVERDOSE

By David R. Shorey, East County Program Manager, Institute for Public Strategies

October 4, 2022 (San Diego’s East County) -- There is an opioid epidemic in the United States that stretches into California and San Diego County. People who use drugs are dying from overdoses in record numbers, including 12 kids under the age of 18 who died in San Diego County from opioid overdoses in 2021. A proven strategy to address the rising opioid overdose deaths is through widespread naloxone distribution in our communities which should include local school campuses for grades 6-12. Even one child using drugs and putting their life in jeopardy is one too many.


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FROM THE FIRE CHIEF’S CORNER: WILDFIRE EMBERS – DANGER!

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

October 3, 2022 (San Diego) -- We are about to step into the height of fire season as Santa Ana Winds will soon be blowing. During wildfires, winds can send embers flying well over a mile on and into unprotected combustibles and openings around your home.


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FROM THE FIRE CHIEF'S CORNER: NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION WEEK OCT. 9-15

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

“Fire Won’t Wait - Plan Your Escape!”

October 1, 2022 (San Diego) -- This year marks the 100th anniversary of Fire Prevention Week. Fire Prevention Week is to bring heightened awareness to saving lives, preventing injuries, and protecting property. Start planning and sharing with family and friends now!


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EARTHTALK: MORE SUSTAINABLE FOOD PACKAGING COMING OUR WAY

By Rhea Joshi, EarthTalk

Photo:  Heinz is working with Pulpex to prototype a food-grade bottle made from sustainably-sourced wood pulp that can be recycled and biodegrades if it is thrown away.

September 23, 2022 (San Diego) - Dear EarthTalk: What’s new in food packaging to make it more sustainable?

--E.C. Bern, NC


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ADVANCING HEALTHY COMMUNITIES: METHAMPHETAMINE USE AMONG OLDER ADULTS CONTINUES TO RISE

By David R. Shorey, East County Program Manager, Institute for Public Strategies

September 8, 2022 (San Diego) -- Methamphetamine use impacts every part of our society. While often viewed as a misuse disorder that affects younger adults, people over the age of 65 are increasingly using methamphetamine in San Diego County and it has definitely become an issue for the Aging and Independence Services Department, according to officials. The rise in meth use is among both chronic users with a history of drug abuse and new users who have been introduced to meth by caregivers in their home.


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FROM THE FIRE CHIEF’S CORNER: LABOR DAY SAFETY TIPS

For the Love of Labor!
 
By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna
 
August 27, 2022 (San Diego) – There are no Labor Day discounts when it comes to safety. Labor Day marks the beginning of the end of summer – so for many of us it’s a chance to pack one last fun-filled weekend in, enjoying the outdoors with family and friends.
 
Following are some tips to make the most of Labor Day:

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A TASTE OF THAILAND: THAI THAI RESTAURANT IN SANTEE

On the road with the East County Eater

Story and photos by Shiloh Ireland

August 26, 2022 (Santee) -- On the road and in Santee-Yesterday I returned to my favorite Thai restaurant. When I have Thai Cuisine, it has to be authentic, fresh and delicious. Thai Thai Restaurant is located at 10251-B, Mast Blvd; Santee. Phone:  619.335.3453. Thai Thai features dine-in and carry-out, offers reservations and has reasonable prices.

What I especially enjoy, too, is the friendliness of staff and willingness to explain or recommend any dish as there are many. I love curries and their yellow, red and green is a pleasant surprise. One month ago, they added a sushi bar to their operation and it looks very popular also. Thai beer is also on the menu.


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FROM THE FIRE CHIEF’S CORNER: AUGUST IS NATIONAL WELLNESS MONTH

By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

August 13, 2022 (San Diego) -- This month gives us all a chance to put renewed emphasis on our personal well-being. Wherever you work or whatever you do, you have an even greater incentive to stay well. After all, your physical performance and mental responsiveness don’t just impact success or failure — they could be the difference between life or death.


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FROM THE FIRE CHIEF’S CORNER: TAKE THE PLUNGE FOR SWIMMING POOL SAFETY

By Sam DiGiovanna

August 3, 2022 (San Diego’s East County) -- Though we are reaching the peak of summer, it seems like it’s been an “endless summer” as it’s been hot for so long. Many people are spending their time in pools to beat the heat. Unfortunately, there is the dangerous side to summer and swimming pools.


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