By Miriam Raftery

December 14, 2009 (San Diego) – In Tucson, Arizona on December 4, a federal judge ordered a theology student to reconsider his refusal to accept community service as a sentence for leaving water jugs for migrants crossing the border in an area where hundreds of border crossers have died in the past year alone. Walt Staton was convicted of littering by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. He plans to appeal his conviction.

But the judge warned, if Staton refuses to accept his sentence(which included community service, a year of supervised probation and a one year ban on entering the federal wildlife refuge where he left water jugs), he could be fined $100,000 and spend up to a year in prison, the Arizona Daily Wildcat reported.

December 14, 2009 (La Mesa) – On December 13th around 2:18 a.m., a man leaving a friend’s home at 8025 Valley View Circle in La Mesa was assaulted while getting into his vehicle . Three black male suspects approached him, armed with a crowbar and a stick. One suspect began punching and kicking the victim while demanding his property and stole his wallet, according to the La Mesa Police. All three suspects fled the scene in a dark 1994 or 1995 Ford Thunderbird. See detailed descriptions below.

Dear Readers,

On December 13, 2009, at about 5:43 PM, a lone suspect robbed the clerk at the Staples store at 8805 Murray Drive, La Mesa. The suspect selected a display item, and waited in line. Once at the register, he simulated a handgun and threatened the clerk, demanding cash. The clerk complied and gave the suspect an unknown amount of cash. The suspect then fled on foot. No one was injured during the robbery, which La Mesa Police believe may be related to a series of robberies in the area.

December 11, 2009 (El Cajon) – Kareem Colum, 32, of El Cajon has been arrested for attempted murder following an altercation in which he reportedly tried to take Sheriff deputy's gun.

By Kristin Kjaero

December 10, 2009 (La Mesa) – It was a standing room only crowd December 9, as residents gave their input at the Draft Environmental Impact Report and Public Scoping Meeting for Park Stations at the Crossroads of La Mesa, a six-acre, 18-story multiple use project proposed for the Village.

The Magic Horse Therapeutic Riding Center hosts an art fair and live auction on Sunday, December 13th from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. at the Lakeside VFW Hall, 12650 Lindo Lane, Lakeside 92040. Admission and meal costs $25, or reserve a table for six including wine for $150. The event includes a live auction, opportunity drawing, creative activities for children, and T-shirt. Auction and drawin include items donated by local businesses and art by local artists, and artwork created by the horses!

December 10, 2009 (Lakeside) -- Derek C. Dreis, age 45, of Lakeside died suddenly of a blood clot that stopped his heart on Saturday, December 5th.   For the last 10 years, he has worked for Sycuan Casino and Resort as an assistant shift supervisor on the security department.

December 10, 2009 (San Diego’s East County) – With a 5-0 record, Santa High School ‘s varsity team is in first place after the fifth week of the Grossmont Union High School District’s Academic League matches, besting Helix 85-24.

Handle cooking oil and grease carefully all year round, but especially this time of year

Editor’s note: This consumer advice provided by Otay Water District stikes an all-too-familiar chord, since our household once had drains back up after cooking up rich foods for a holiday party. Read below to learn how you can avoid this hassle.

December 9, 2009 (Otay) –‘Tis the season to enjoy excellent holiday food. For homeowners and wastewater operators alike, however, the holiday season can be a troubling time of year.

December 9, 2009 (San Diego)--Thanks to a $207,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) will improve child safety by offering vehicle protection education and providing 2,000 child car seats to low-income families.

Funding for “Keep ‘Em Safe” comes from a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

by Christopher Mohr

(SAN DIEGO) December 4 – The early trend of tonight’s game between the Steele Canyon Cougars and Point Loma Pointers suggested that a shootout was in the making. For much of the game, it seemed as if both teams would continue to trade touchdowns and the old adage that the last team having the ball would win this game might come true.

Ultimately Point Loma’s running game took control and Steele Canyon was unable to respond, allowing the Pointers to go ahead late in the game and hold on for a 30-26 win.

Good Money: Your guide to financial planning & socially responsible investing

RETIREMENT PLANNING OPPORTUNITIES & CHANGES for 2009-2010

By: Judith L. Seid, CFP ®
President, Blue Summit Financial Group

December 2009 (La Mesa) -- Below is a brief discussion of some of the major opportunities available for you now and in 2010.  A check-up with your tax professional, and/or financial advisor is wise to ensure that you are taking advantage of all great tax and retirement planning strategies given your individual situation.

December 7, 2009 (San Diego’s East County) – Snow plows are working to clear roads in East County’s mountain areas. Chains are required on Sunrise Highway to Mount Laguna.