This week in The Alpine Sun

Lead Stories

Judge denies class action lawsuits in recent wildfires  
A judge has rejected class action status for the 70 lawsuits so far filed against San Diego Gas & Electric in which the utility is blamed for causing the wildfires in October 2007. The judge’s ruling will probably be appealed to a higher court, attorneys said.  

Water Authority approves water rate increases  
The San Diego County Water Authority board approved rates and charges for the upcoming year that increase water purchase rates and other charges. 

State budget problems will affect local programs and services
Second district Supervisor Dianne Jacob talked at length about the county’s current budget at an Alpine Revitalization Committee meeting held on Friday, June 26. The Board of Supervisors has approved a budget for the 2009-2010 fiscal year and Jacob said the budget is balanced and structurally sound with revenues being intact.   

Medal of Honor recipient celebrates 100th birthday in Pine Valley
John William Finn was only 17 years old when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. A career Navy man, Finn served his country for 30 years, earning him many accolades, including the Medal of Honor.  

Supervisors approve Mason Wildlife Preserve addition
The San Diego County Board of Supervisors voted June 17 to approve the purchase of 187 acres of land in Potrero, which will be added to the Mason Wildlife Preserve. 
 
News in Photos: 12th annual Crown Hills Fourth of July Parade
 

Columns/Opinion

My Turn with Assemblyman Joel Anderson: Fiddling while Rome burns

My Turn with Roger Garay: 233 years ago — then and now

Spiritual Sunrise with Merry Murray: Training up your children for God

Purple Mountain Sage with Sharon Courmousis: Become a truthteller

Fire Focus with Alpine Fire Protection District: Splish, splash safely this summer

While You Were Sleeping with Nancy Slaff: Where angels fear to tread; charities continue work


Sports

CIF relaxes cross-country requirement, wrestling modification