This week in The Alpine Sun

Lead Stories

Weber admits to drinking binge before crash that killed cyclist
     The driver accused of killing Edward Costa as he rode his bicycle on Alpine Boulevard admitted to authorities he had been on a drinking binge for at least five days and did not recall the Dec. 2 crash, according to testimony at his preliminary hearing on Jan. 21.  

High school public comment period open
     At the first Grossmont Union High School board meeting of the year, presentations on the usage of Proposition U bond funds held center stage, guaranteeing that the district can continue moving forward with modifications and upgrades, along with the possibility of adding the 12th high school. 

Wireless MUP approved for Alpine Church
The county's Planning Commission voted 6-0 Jan. 9, with Commissioner Bryan Woods absent, to grant a Major Use Permit for a wireless communications facility on the property of Alpine Christian Fellowship Church.   

Hunter introduces legislation to stop transfer of detainees
U.S. Congressman Duncan Hunter (R-CA), introduced legislation today to prohibit the transfer of terrorists from the Guantanamo Bay detention facility to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar and Camp Pendleton. The legislation specifically prohibits the use of federal funds to transfer combatants to Camp Pendleton and Miramar, and the modification or construction of detention facilities at either base. 

Kiwanis members honor two departed comrades at memorial
On Saturday, Jan. 24, the Kiwanis Club of Alpine and Members of The Alpine Woman’s Club and guests honored two Kiwanians, Frank Robles and Floyd “Doc” Ramsey. The event was held at The Gazebo and Memorial, which is just behind The Woman’s Club on Alpine Boulevard. 
 
Local representatives man federal boards and committees  
District 51 Congressman Bob Filner and District 52 Congressman Duncan Hunter recently took up seats and responsibilities on various national committees.

Grossmont, Cuyamaca colleges’ smoking ban now in effect
Students and faculty returning this month to Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges for spring classes will find it a little easier to breathe, now that a smoking ban approved a year ago is in full effect.

Tax Tips: Records and dependents
You probably already keep records in your daily routine. This includes keeping receipts for purchases and recording information in your checkbook. Keeping these and other records will help you avoid headaches at tax time.

Civic Report: Public review period for high school site closes Feb. 23

Another tough winter day in East County
It’s hard to believe it’s winter. While much of the nation shivered in sub-zero temperatures last week, I hopped in the car and took off for a drive along sun-drenched East County’s back roads, and Back Country byways, savoring spring-like weather.

Ambassadors select new leader
There’s a new chairwoman leading the friendly Ambassadors of the Alpine & Mountain Empire Chamber of Commerce.
 

Columns/Opinion

My Turn with Duncan D. Hunter: Local input will shape ideas of new Congressman

Spiritual Sunrise with Merry Murray: Lost opportunities