During construction hours - University Avenue westbound between Massachusetts Avenue and Harbinson Avenue will be closed to through traffic. Traffic will be detoured to Massachusetts Avenue, Boulevard Drive, Marian Drive and back to University Avenue at Harbinson Avenue. Westbound University Avenue will remain open during the day and weekends. There will be no impact to eastbound traffic.

Doing the work at night will create the least impact to traffic flow and businesses. Night work also allows the construction to be completed more quickly and therefore minimizes disruptions.

We apologize for any inconvenience during the construction period. Should you have any questions, please call the City of La Mesa Engineering Division at 619.667.1166.

The City of El Cajon Teen Coalition would like to recognize youth for making a difference in our community. If you see, hear, or know of a youth who has gone the extra mile to improve the quality of life in our community, please take this opportunity to acknowledge and reward that effort. "The Success of Tomorrow.Depends on the Youth of Today!" How Does This Work? The City of El Cajon Teen Coalition presents a "Youth of the Year" Award to recognize those youth who go above and beyond in serving their community either through their leadership abilities and/or their quality or level of community service in El Cajon. Leadership can be defined as those individuals who consistently facilitate a team vision and help guide others towards success. Community service is work that helps better the community through the value and impact of those served. Final awards will be based on dedication, commitment beyond what may be required by school, and demonstrated impact of those served. Who is eligible? Two youth will be awarded each year: one youth currently at the middle school level (grades 6th - 8th) and one youth currently at the high school level (grades 9th - 12th). Note: Recognized work by youth is based on their personal merits and contributions and is not intended to be limited to their school involvement. All nominations are reserved for youth who are City of El Cajon residents. Youth will be recognized and awarded for service accomplished within the calendar year previous to the nomination period. Currently awarding for work accomplished between January 1 through December 31, 2011. Current Teen Coalition members are not eligible for this award.

Nomination and Selection Process - Anyone may nominate a youth by completing the nomination form found on our website at www.elcajonrec.org, and returning it to the City of El Cajon Recreation Department. Nomination forms will only be accepted from now through March 9, 2012. The City of El Cajon Teen Coalition will review applications and select finalists in each grade level category. Nominators of the finalists will also be invited to attend the March 18th Teen Coalition meeting to further discuss the accomplishments of youth they nominated with the Teen Coalition. The Teen Coalition will make their final selection and notify the awarded youth recipients and their nominators of further details by the first week in April. Award Presentation - Youth selected for this award will be presented with a City of El Cajon Teen Coalition "Youth of the Year" Award plaque and proclamation during an El Cajon City Council Meeting in April. A perpetual plaque will also be displayed in the "Wall of Fame" case at City Hall. Press releases will go out showcasing award recipients. For More Information please contact the City of El Cajon Recreation Department, Attn: Teen Coalition, 200 Civic Center Way, El Cajon, CA 92020, or call (619) 441-1754.

Enroll In The 2012 Citizen's Police Academy

The El Cajon Police Department is now accepting applications for the 2012 Citizen's Police Academy. The Citizen's Police Academy is an 8-week program that allows members of the community to learn how their police department functions from the inside - out. Students will attend weekly classes and learn about topics including the history of law enforcement, the criminal justice system and crime scene investigation. Students will see presentations from divisions within the police department and participate in hands-on exercises such as conducting traffic stops, dusting for fingerprints and firearms simulation.

The academy will begin on Wednesday, March 14, 2012, and will conclude with a graduation ceremony on Wednesday, May 2, 2012. Classes will be held weekly from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the El Cajon Police Department located at 100 Civic Center Way, El Cajon, CA 92020. Anyone is encouraged to apply, however residents and business people in the City of El Cajon will be given priority in acceptance to the academy. A background check will be conducted on all applicants. A total of 25 students will be accepted on a first come first served basis. An application for the Citizen's Police Academy can be downloaded at www.elcajonpolice.org. If you have any questions or need an application, please call (619) 579-4227, or (619) 441-1597.

Grossmont Healthcare District - 2012 Healthcare Heroes Awards

Grossmont Healthcare District will hold its sixth annual awards luncheon to recognize and reward front-line volunteer caregivers and other individuals who help advance the delivery of healthcare and improve the quality of life for East County residents. The District will recognize those individuals, and providers who go beyond their scope of work voluntarily to inspire others by giving extraordinary care and positively affecting the health and welfare of those living in the District's boundaries. Honorees will be considered as true unsung heroes of healthcare whose day-in and day-out work might not otherwise be recognized.

Who can be nominated? Nominations are for individual volunteers or volunteers of organizations who demonstrate selfless dedication to produce measurable out comes that provide for a healthy East County community. Employees of healthcare organizations are eligible, contingent on the nomination being reflective of their volunteer work over-and- above their regular employment. Nominees must have made an outstanding achievement, providing positive results in their given field. Nominations from a single organization are limited to no more than three individuals from that same organization. Nominees from previous years are eligible to be nominated again, if they were not chosen.

Examples of who can be nominated: Volunteers (healthcare, civic, community, fire and rescue), Health care educators, volunteer transportation, health professionals, first responders, volunteers from community clinics, Pastoral care, grant writers, members of service clubs, members of advocacy or policy organizations, Auxiliary members, junior volunteers (healthcare-related). When are the nominations due? Forms must be received no later than 3 p.m., February 27, 2012. Feel free to add additional pages (up to four) to thoroughly answer the nomination questions. Supporting materials can include letters of commendation, awards, etc. Nominations should be mailed to: Grossmont Healthcare District, c/o Healthcare Heroes, 9001 Wakarusa Street, La Mesa, CA 91942, or Fax to (619) 851-5051. If you have questions, please call (619) 825-5050.

February Is Museum Month - Visit The Knox House & Wieghorst Museums

What was life like in the 1800's in El Cajon? Find out by taking a tour of the Knox House Museum and see for yourself. The Knox House has a wealth of information about El Cajon, with photos and artifacts on the history of the City. The Knox House was the first commercial building in El Cajon, built in 1876 as a hotel for travelers and teamsters on their way to the Julian gold fields. The Knox House Museum will be open each Saturday in February, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at 280 N. Magnolia Avenue in El Cajon. Free admission. You can also schedule private tours for your class or organization. For more information, please call (619) 444-3800, or visit www.elcajonhistory.org.

Visit The Childhood Home of Olaf Wieghorst & See Western Art!

The Olaf Wieghorst Museum and Western Heritage Center is a must to see in downtown El Cajon. This museum honors the accomplished artist Olaf Wieghorst, who lived in our community for more than 40 years. Olaf was well known for his magnificent portrayals of the nineteenth century American West. You'll also find his restored childhood home next to the center. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tours are welcomed, or consider being a volunteer. The Museum is located at 131 Rea Avenue in El Cajon. To see all their special events, visit their website at www.wieghorstmuseum.org , or, to schedule a tour, please call (619) 590-3431.

Morning Glory Brunch coming in April

The 14th annual Morning Glory Brunch, benefitting St. Madeleine Sophie's Center is set for Saturday, April 14th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the St. Madeleine's Organic Garden. Event highlights include live music & entertainment, boutique shopping, live and silent auctions, and over 20 food and beverage stations! For more information visit www.stmsc.org, or call (619) 442-5129, ext. 115.

Happy Birthday El Cajon - Celebrating 100 Years!

The exact date of the City's 100th birthday is Monday, November 12, 2012. The Centennial Celebration Committee, led by Councilmember Jillian Hanson-Cox, is already planning fun events to mark the occasion. We are accepting volunteers by going to www.elcajon100.com, or visiting our Facebook page under El Cajon Centennial. Look for the volunteer information, registration page, as well as sponsorship opportunities. *If you know of someone turning the age of 100 during 2012 or have some vintage photos and stories you would like to share, please call (619) 441-1737 or email to celebrate@elcajon100.com.

Safety Lectures for your group or school!

In El Cajon, Safety Educator Monica Zech is available to speak to your group or school by request. Injury prevention lectures cover such topics as driving safety and disaster preparedness, even careers in Emergency Medical Services. Please call (619) 441-1737, or send your request to mzech@cityofelcajon.us.

The El Cajon Police Department is now accepting applications for the 2012 Citizen's Police Academy. The Citizen's Police Academy is an eight week program that allows members of the community to learn how their police department functions from the inside - out. Students will attend weekly classes and learn about topics including the history of law enforcement, the criminal justice system and crime scene investigation. Students will see presentations from divisions within the police department and participate in hands-on exercises such as conducting traffic stops, dusting for fingerprints and firearms simulation.

The academy will begin on Wednesday, March 14, 2012, and will conclude with a graduation ceremony on Wednesday, May 2, 2012. Classes will be held weekly from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the El Cajon Police Department located at 100 Civic Center Way, El Cajon, CA 92020. Anyone is encouraged to apply, however residents and business people in the City of El Cajon will be given priority in acceptance to the academy. A background check will be conducted on all applicants. A total of 25 students will be accepted on a first come first served basis. An application for the Citizen's Police Academy can be downloaded at www.elcajonpolice.org. If you have any questions or need an application, please call (619) 579-4227, or (619) 441-1597.

The El Cajon Antique Show, Feb. 8

Don't miss the next antique show in El Cajon on Wednesday, February 8th! See great collectibles, including jewelry, photos, artwork, dolls, textiles, dishes, pottery, and glassware. This event is held the 2nd Wednesday of every month at the Ronald Reagan Community Center located at 195 East Douglas Avenue, from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. Parking and admission are free and you can receive one free appraisal. Additional appraisals are $5.00 each. For more information, or if you would like to be a vendor, please call (619) 887-8762.

Visit The Knox House Museum During February

If you haven’t had the chance to tour the Knox House Museum, stop by any Saturday during the month of February for museum month in the City. The Knox House has a wealth of information about El Cajon, with photos and artifacts on the history of the City. Did you know the Knox House was the first commercial building in El Cajon, built in 1876 as a hotel for travelers and teamsters on their way to the Julian gold fields? The Knox House Museum will be open each Saturday in February, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at 280 N. Magnolia Avenue, in El Cajon. Free admission. You can also schedule private tours for your class or organization. For more information, please call (619) 444-3800, or visit www.elcajonhistory.org.

Visit The Wieghorst Museum Too During Museum Month!

The Olaf Wieghorst Museum and Western Heritage Center in downtown El Cajon honors the accomplished artist Olaf Wieghorst, who lived in our community for more than 40 years. Olaf was well known for his magnificent portrayals of the nineteenth century American West. You'll also find his restored childhood home next to the center. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tours are welcomed, or consider being a volunteer. The Museum is located at 131 Rea Avenue in El Cajon. To see all their special events, visit their website at www.wieghorstmuseum.org , or, to schedule a tour, please call (619) 590-3431.

Morning Glory Brunch Set For April

The 14th annual Morning Glory Brunch, benefitting St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center is set for Saturday, April 14th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the St. Madeleine’s Organic Garden. Event highlights include live music & entertainment, boutique shopping, live and silent auctions, and over 20 food and beverage stations! For more information visit www.stmsc.org, or call (619) 442-5129, ext. 115.

JANUARY 12, 2012

Enter Now!: Miss El Cajon & Miss El Cajon Teen

If you are a young lady, age 13 to 24, you're invited to attend a pageant orientation on Sunday, January 22, 2012, at Kennedy Recreation Center, 1:00 p.m., at 1675 East Madison Avenue. There are no entry fees. This is your opportunity to meet new people and make lasting friendships by representing your City and promoting volunteerism in your community. The pageant will be held on March 3, 6:00 p.m., at Cuyamaca College Theater. A Miss Rancho San Diego and Miss Rancho San Diego Teen will also be selected. Over $2,000 in scholarships will be awarded. Judging is on poise, personality, evening wear and a personal interview, no swimsuits or talent competition. For more information, please email your questions to misselcajon@cox.net, or call (619) 390-0061. More information can be found on Facebook by searching Miss El Cajon.

2012 El Cajon Police Department Citizen's Police Academy

The El Cajon Police Department is now accepting applications for the 2012 Citizen's Police Academy. The Citizen's Police Academy is an eight week program that allows members of the community to learn how their police department functions from the inside - out. Students will attend weekly classes and learn about topics including the history of law enforcement, the criminal justice system and crime scene investigation. Students will see presentations from divisions within the police department and participate in hands-on exercises such as conducting traffic stops, dusting for fingerprints and firearms simulation.

The academy will begin on Wednesday, March 14, 2012, and conclude with a graduation ceremony on Wednesday, May 2, 2012. Classes will be held weekly from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the El Cajon Police Department located at 100 Civic Center Way, El Cajon, CA 92020. Anyone is encouraged to apply, however citizens and business people in the city of El Cajon will be given priority in acceptance to the academy. A background check will be conducted on all applicants. A total of 25 students will be accepted on a first come first serve basis. An application for the Citizen's Police Academy can be downloaded at www.elcajonpolice.org. If you have any questions or need an application, please call (619) 579-4227, or (619) 441-1597.

Grand Re-Opening Celebration Of Renette Park Community Center

Renovations are complete and the Renette Park Community Center is now open to the public! Stop by the center and see all the beautiful renovations. Mark your calendar and plan to attend the official Grand Re-Opening of the Renette Park Center, Thursday, February 2, 3:00 to 6:30 p.m., at 935 South Emerald Avenue. Enjoy facility tours, program demonstrations and the ribbon cutting ceremony at 4:00 p.m. For more information, please call (619) 441-1754. Don't forget to register for Winter classes before they fill up!

The 2012 East County CERT Schedule Is Posted - Register Now!

It's all about being prepared for a disaster, such as an earthquake, firestorm or house fire. This FREE disaster preparedness education program offers residents the knowledge and tools they'll need in the event of a disaster. There are three academies being offered for 2012. Pick the one that best fits your schedule, and call (619) 441-1737 to register. Leave your name and best contact phone number.

The 2012 schedule is as follows:

Academy - #1 - January 28 - Disaster preparedness/CERT Organization
February 11 - Disaster Medical/ Triage
February 25 - Fire Extinguishers/Light Search and Rescue
March 10 - Fire Extinguishers/Light Search and Rescue hands on - at *HTF
March 24 - Disaster Psychology/Hazardous Materials/Terrorism
April 7 - All inclusive manipulative review & graduation - *At HTF

Academy #2 - June 9, 23, July 7-*HTF, 21, August 4, 18-*HTF
Academy #3 - September 22, October 6-*HTF, 20-*HTF, November 3, 17, December 1-*HTF

These classes are held on Saturday mornings from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. There are two class locations for "registered" CERT students, the first at 8054 Allison Avenue in La Mesa, and the other at 1301 N. Marshall Avenue, the Heartland Training Facility (HTF), in El Cajon. Class sizes are limited to 35 per academy, ages 16 and up, non-residents welcome. For safety concerns, we ask you do not bring babies or children to class. Wear closed toed shoes only - no sandals. On the first day you will need to bring a 1½ inch thick notebook binder for the curriculum. Any classes missed may be made up during the following academy. Classes are taught by members of Heartland Fire & Rescue and Santee Fire Departments. For general information on being prepared for a disaster, please visit www.heartlandfire.org.

Discover All The New Shops & Restaurants In Downtown El Cajon!

Visit the fun and unique shopping areas of downtown El Cajon, and enjoy one of many delicious dining areas available! Shops along Main Street includes a variety of clothing stores, jewelry and specialty shops, hair salons, relaxing massages, psychic readings, special framing for that special photo or work of art, and numerous art galleries and museums. Have lunch or dinner at any one of our great restaurants, from Italian, Mediterranean, and Mexican food - to your favorite American classics of salads, burgers, steaks, even a new brewery! If you haven't been downtown for a while - stop in, and discover all the great things we have to offer, not only during the holidays, but year-round!

One Vacancy On The El Cajon Personnel Commission

The City of El Cajon announces it's accepting applications for one vacancy on the Personnel Commission. Among their duties, the Personnel Commission hears employee appeals and alleged violations of personnel rules or matters involving alleged discrimination and certifies its findings to City Council. The Commission reviews classification specifications and investigates and makes recommendations on personnel policy. The City Council will make an appointment to the Commission from a list of three applicants nominated by the four seated members of the Personnel Commission. The three applicants selected for nomination will be notified of the date and time of the City Council meeting and the Personnel Commission meeting. The appointed Commissioner will serve a four (4) year term. Requirements: Applicants must be a resident of the City for not less than one year prior to appointment and continue to reside in the City during the term of office. Personnel Commissioners are required to comply with Ethics training requirements and file a Statement of Economics Form 700 according to provisions of the Political Reform Act, the Fair Political Practices Commission, and the City's Conflict of Interest Code. The Council shall make one appointment from a list of 3 persons nominated by the four appointed Personnel Commission members, except when an incumbent is to be re-nominated in which case 1 name may be submitted. Interested applicants should contact Judi Gonzalez in the Human Resources Department at (619) 441-1736 by January 13, 2012. An application form is available on the City's website at www.cityofelcajon.us on the Home Page, under the heading "What's New". Application forms are also available in the City Clerk's Office, First Floor City Hall, 200 Civic Center Way, El Cajon, CA 92020, or you may call the City Clerk's office at (619) 441-1763.

Add A New Kitten, Cat Or Dog To Your Family!

We still have plenty of kittens, cats and dogs (large & small) available for adoption at the El Cajon Animal Shelter. One fee includes their vaccinations, microchip, spay or neuter, as well as a visit to the vet. In addition to adoptions, the shelter provides many services for the Cities of El Cajon and La Mesa. Be sure to check with shelter staff if you are searching for a lost pet in the event it has been recovered. Most important, consider having your dog micro-chipped to make it easier to find them should they ever become lost. Shelter hours for viewing the animals are Tuesday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; closed from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. The front office is open until 5:30 p.m. for licenses; and they are closed Sundays, Mondays and holidays. Stop by and adopt a new, loving pet for your family. Adoptions are $80 for cats and dogs; and if you adopt a senior pet (over 8 years old); the adoption fee is $30. The shelter is located at 1275 N. Marshall in El Cajon, just two blocks north of Fletcher Parkway. For more information, please call (619) 441-1580.

El Cajon's Centennial Celebration In 2012

Plans continue for the City of El Cajon's Centennial Celebration in 2012. You can be a big part of the celebration - and of history. The exact date of the City's 100th birthday is Monday, November 12, 2012; but fun events are in the planning stages leading up to that date - and after! The Centennial Celebration Committee, led by Councilmember Jillian Hanson-Cox, is now accepting volunteers. Go to www.elcajon100.com or visit our Facebook page under El Cajon Centennial. Look for the volunteer information and registration page, as well as sponsorship opportunities. If you know of someone turning the age of 100 during 2012, please call (619) 441-1737.

Grossmont College To Host Career Planning Workshops For High School Students & Parents

Grossmont College will host six free career planning workshops on January 17, 18 and 19 for high school students and their parents who want to learn how to use new online software called "Career Cruising," which is designed to help students discover career options for life after high school. The workshops, presented by the Grossmont Union High School District (GUHSD), will be held at the Learning and Technology Resource Center, Building #70, at the Grossmont College campus in El Cajon. GUHSD officials said the software contains online assessment tools, detailed occupation profiles and comprehensive post-secondary education information, designed to help students move seamlessly through the career exploration and planning process.

Two workshops will be held each evening from 5:00 to 6:00 and from 6:30 to 7:30. Students from Valhalla, Granite Hills and El Cajon Valley High Schools are invited to attend on Tuesday, January 17; from West Hills, El Capitan and Santana High Schools on Wednesday, January 18; and, from Grossmont, Monte Vista, Mount Miguel and Chaparral High Schools on Thursday, January 19. Childcare will not be provided at the workshops. Spanish and Arabic translation will be available on January 17 and 19, and Spanish translation only on January 18. Free transportation to Grossmont College will leave at 5:30 p.m. from El Cajon Valley High on January 17, and from Monte Vista and Mount Miguel High Schools on January 19; however, transportation will not be available on January 18. For more information on the workshops, visit www.guhsd.net. Grossmont College is located at 8800 Grossmont College Drive, in El Cajon. For driving directions and a campus map, visit www.grossmont.edu.

DECEMBER 2, 2011

EL CAJON REC's WINTER CATELOG IS NOW AVAILABLE HERE

East County Toy Drive Holiday Party

The Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians invites you to join them at Stoney & Rob's 7th annual Holiday Party & Auction at Viejas, Wednesday, December 7th, 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Viejas DreamCatcher Lounge at Viejas. All proceeds benefit the East County Toy & Food Drive. Stoney's Kids Foundation is a major supporter of this event, because of this support, Stoney Stone will be receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Salvation Army. Join us as we honor Stoney and enjoy food, an opportunity drawing, plus silent and live auctions. The East County Toy and Food Drive has been happily serving needy East County families for the past 36 years!

Some Help For The Holidays

You can be a tremendous help for those in need during the holidays by dropping off a new toy at any East County Fire Station, now until December 10th. In El Cajon, please drop off your unwrapped gifts at the main fire station located at 100 E. Lexington Avenue. Consider holding a toy drive at your workplace, or with your civic group. For more ways you, or your organization can help those less fortunate during the holidays, please visit www.salvationarmyelcajon.com, or stop by their office at 1011 E. Main Street to drop off toys and food. For more information, please call (619) 440-4683, ext. 401. If you are someone who needs help during the holidays, the deadline to register with the Salvation Army was November 23rd. If you missed this deadline please check with nearby churches for their holiday help programs.

Invitation To A Holiday Open House

Senator Joel Anderson cordially invites you, your family and friends to a holiday Open House at the Ronald Reagan Community Center, located at 195 East Douglas Avenue, on Wednesday, December 7th, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The holiday season is a time to reflect on the experiences of the past year. This Open House will provide you with the opportunity to hear a 2011 legislative update.and provide your own thoughts and ideas. Enjoy great conversation, hors d'oeuvres and refreshments. This is paid for with private funds, not tax dollars. For more information, or to RSVP, please call the California Senate District Office at (619) 596-3136.

East County Fire Truck Toy Parade Is Coming!

If you hear sirens around the City on Saturday morning, December 10th, don't be alarmed - it's the East County Toy & Food Drive's annual Fire Truck Toy Parade in El Cajon! Fire trucks from over a dozen agencies throughout the County will meet at El Cajon Fire Station 6, located at 100 E. Lexington Avenue, at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 10th. Firefighters will be loading up their fire rigs with hundreds of toys donated by the public and by local fire associations in support of this annual event. The fire trucks will depart from the Lexington Avenue location at 10:45 a.m. and travel as a motorcade down East Main Street, to Mollison Avenue, and Mollison Avenue to Broadway ending at the Target parking lot at Broadway and Graves. Once there, the toys will be turned over to Salvation Army volunteers. There will also be a live radio broadcast by KOGO News Radio inviting the public to donate toys or drop-off monetary donations from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. You still have time to bring your new unwrapped toys to this event, or drop them off at your nearest fire station. In El Cajon, please drop off your toys at the main fire station located at 100 E. Lexington Avenue.

Holiday Shopping At The El Cajon Antique Show - December 14th

Don't miss the December antique show in El Cajon on Wednesday, December 14th! See great collectibles, including jewelry, photos, artwork, dolls, textiles, dishes, pottery, and glassware. This event is held the 2nd Wednesday of every month at the Ronald Reagan Community Center located at 195 East Douglas Avenue, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Parking and admission are free and you can receive one free appraisal. Additional appraisals are $5.00 each. There is also a military collectible expert on hand. For more information, or if you would like to be a vendor, please call (619) 887-8762.

A Holiday Bazaar - December 17th

Stop by for a Holiday Bazaar on December 17th, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at Christ Church Unity of El Cajon, located at 311 Highland Ave., in El Cajon, at the corner of Highland and Lexington Avenues. Enjoy delicious baked goods, jewelry, boutique clothing, handbags, knitted baby items, garden dolls, quilts, 18" doll clothing, Children's clothing, hairclips and more! For more information, please call (619) 820-6636, (619) 442-6031 - there's room for a few more vendors. Great place to do some shopping!

Kids Crafts at Hillside Recreation Center

Come join us this fall at Hillside Center for Kids Crafts. EVERY Monday from 4-5 p.m., we will create fun, festive and special themed crafts. Crafts include Snowflake Bracelets, Snowman Frames and much more. Kids Crafts are open to children ages 5-12 years old and the cost is FREE! For more information, please call (619) 441-1674, or stop on in. Hillside Recreation Center is located at 840 Buena Terrace, just off Fletcher Parkway. Hillside Recreation Center hours are Monday - Thursday from 3-6 p.m., and Friday from 3-9:30 p.m.

Kittens, Cats & Dogs Available For Adoption - Just In Time For The Holidays!

There are plenty of kittens, cats and dogs available for adoption at the El Cajon Animal Shelter! One fee includes their shots, microchip, spay or neuter, and a visit to the vet! I also noticed a few bunnies when I picked out a new cat yesterday! In addition to adoptions, the shelter provides many services for the Cities of El Cajon and La Mesa. Be sure to check with shelter staff if you are searching for a lost pet in the event it has been recovered. Most important, consider having your dog micro-chipped to make it easier to find them should they ever become lost. Shelter hours for viewing the animals are Tuesday through Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; closed from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. The front office is open until 5:30 p.m. for licenses; and they are closed Sundays, Mondays and holidays. Holiday shopping? Stop by and adopt a new, loving pet for your family. Adoptions are $80 for cats & dogs; and if you adopt a senior pet (over 8 years old), the adoption fee is $30. Don't forget, dog and cat adoptions include a spayed or neutered pet, registered micro-chip, and up-to-date vaccinations. The shelter is located at 1275 N. Marshall in El Cajon, just two blocks north of Fletcher Parkway. For more information, call (619) 441-1580.

The 2012 Winter Recreation Guide

The new "2012 Winter Guide To Recreation" is now out! See it online at www.elcajonrec.org, or pick up a copy at your nearest City of El Cajon Recreation Center, local schools, local libraries, and in the lobby area of the El Cajon Police Station and at El Cajon City Hall. Don't miss out, there is a full lineup of fun activities to choose from for every member of the family!

Upcoming Closures For City Offices - Important Notice!

For those who may be planning any business with the City of El Cajon during the month of December, please note on your calendar the alternate Friday closures and the extended holiday schedule. City of El Cajon offices will be closed on Friday, December 9; City offices will then observe an extended holiday closure from December 23 through January 2. This includes City Hall, the Recreation Centers, the Public Works Yard and Fire Administration offices. Regular office hours will resume on Tuesday, January 3, 2012. Visit www.cityofelcajon.us for more details.

Grossmont College Career Center - Help For Adults Returning To School

The Grossmont College Adult Reentry Program will host "Recreate Yourself," a free orientation meeting for adults interested in returning to school to learn a new career, earn a college diploma or upgrade workplace skills for a job promotion, Tuesday, December 6th, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Building #34, Room #107, on the college campus. Admission and parking are free. The closest parking lot is Lot #3. Speakers will include current and former students who successfully returned to the classroom. Counselors will be on hand to answer questions. Information will be available on admission procedures, transfer programs and financial aid. Grossmont College is located at 8800 Grossmont College Drive in El Cajon. For more information, phone Nancy Davis at (619) 644-7615, or Susan Esparza at (619) 644-7697, or visit www.grossmont.edu/adultreentry.