VIDEO OF THE MONTH: COYOTES IN EAST COUNTY
Video, photo and story by Billy Lakeside Ortiz View video of coyote hunting and howling: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rj55X4oHj40 January 17, 2017 (Lakeside) — Not all coyotes are a nuisance, in fact where there is open land they can thrive without ever setting paw in your yard. If a habitat has all the right elements–grasses, mice, gopher, rabbits and a few other rodent types–the coyote has all it needs to live long and bear young. I don’t recommend following these wild canine cousins of man’s best friend, the dog, unless you know their behavior well. I enjoy watching them from a distance with my long lens or video camcorder as they hunt or just bolt off running when they realize I have been following them. In this video there are two different coyotes filmed a couple of days apart, as they successfully hunted in the valley. The coyote in the second half of the video caught my scent in the cold, still air and rather then go the other way it came to take a look at me; I held perfectly still and was partially hidden to the point it wasn’t sure what I was. He approached me slowly, the last 40 or fewer yards, and just when I thought it had enough of me he turned back and began barking. It barked for a good four minute before it decided to disappear into the heavy brush. It was bone chilling and exciting to say the least, a first for me. In the 40-plus years of observing the wildlife here in San Diego, I have never seen such behavior. I think, and I’m only guessing, that it was calling for his pack to come help him/her to run off the perceived threat. I thought for sure I would turn around and see it’s pack; fortunately It was just the one coyote and me standing in the cold winter air. It was an experience I will not soon forget.
INTERIOR SECRETARY NOMINEE ZINKE SAYS HE OPPOSES TRANSFER OF PUBLIC LANDS, BELIEVES CLIMATE CHANGE IS REAL AND WANTS TO RESTORE TRUST
By Miriam Raftery January 17, 2017 (Washington D.C.) – In a confirmation hearing today before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Representative Ryan Zinke, Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of the Interior testified, “I want to be clear about this: I am absolutely against the transfer or sale of public lands.” If confirmed, Zinke would be in charge of managing hundreds of millions of acres that belong to all Americans as National Parks, Bureau of Land Management lands and National Wildlife Refuges, as well as conserving western water resources. Zinke also took a stand that’s polar opposite of Trump’s climate change denial. Asked about Climate Change, Zinke told committee members, “I don’t believe it’s a hoax.” The Montana Republican cited shrinking glaciers in his home state’s Glacier National Park as evidence. He added that “man is an influence” on climate change, and that the only debate is how much that influence is and “what we can do about it.” His most important priority, however will be to “restore trust” between the Interior Department and the states and Native American tribes it serves. Zinke is a self-described fan of Theodore Roosevelt fan and Trump has said his Administration would honor the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt. During his presidency, Roosevelt cemented his legacy as conservation hero by establishing 150 national forests, 51 federal bird reserves, four national game preserves, five national parks and 18 national monuments on over 230 million acres of public land. Zinke also favors the National Forest “multiple” use model put forth by Gifford Pinchot, first USFS director. That model allows uses such as grazing, timber harvesting, mining, wind, solar and other energy uses as well as hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and other recreational pursuits. Chris Wood, President and CEO of Trout Unlimited, a fisheries conservation organization, said the hearing “sheds some early light on the Trump administrations priorities. Most important for sportsmen and women is that the Secretary of Interior champion clean water, healthy habitat, and keeping public lands in public hands.” Zinke feels so strongly about not selling or giving away public lands that he resigned as a delegate to the Republican National Convention last summer because of the party’s position in favor of land transfers to state or private groups. However, he drew fire for his vote earlier this month in favor of a measure from House Republicans that would allow federal land transfers to be considered cost-free and budget-neutral, making it easier for drilling and development. According to the Associated Press, Zinke has said he would have voted against the provision if it had been a stand-alone bill. But Sierra Club executive director Michael Brune voiced concern over a “big gap” between Zinke’s words and actions. Zinke voiced support for using scientifically based management as well as safeguards such as the National Environmental Policy Act to protect clean air and water, but also said supports some mining of coal and oil on some public lands. He also vowed to make tackling a $12 billion backlog in maintenance and repair in our national parks and other public lands part of Trump’s infrastructure improvement plan. Such disrepair has eroded public trust and fueled calls for transferring public land into private hands, he said of some officials in Western states, where the federal government controls nearly one third of all lands. He said states should have a voice on monuments designated in their states. Wood says he looks forward to working with Zinke, if confirmed, noting that while challenges facing public lands today have changed from Roosevelt’s era, the need to protect and restore fish and wildlife habitat remain. He concludes, “America’s public lands need to be managed in ways that ensure we pass them along to the next generation healthier, more productive and more diverse than they are today.”
CALIF. WATER SYSTEMS TO PROVIDE FREE LEAD TESTING FOR SCHOOLS
Source: State Water Resources Control Board January 17, 2017 (Sacramento) — In an effort to further safeguard California’s water quality, K-12 schools in the state can receive free testing for lead under a new initiative announced today by the State Water Resources Control Board. The Board is requiring all community water systems to test school drinking water upon request by the school’s officials. There are approximately 9,000 K-12 schools in California, most of which are served by more than 3,000 community water systems in the state. While these community water systems extensively and regularly test their drinking water for lead, lead could get into clean water at a school campus if there were corroded pipes or old fixtures at the school. Because California has newer infrastructure and less corrosive water than other parts of the country, lead problems at the tap are uncommon. However, national events have highlighted the importance of ongoing water quality monitoring and in 2015 Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. directed the State Water Board to incorporate schools into the regular water quality testing that community water systems conduct at customer’s taps. “While the presence of lead in California’s water infrastructure is minimal compared to other parts of the country, additional testing can help ensure we are continuing to protect our most vulnerable populations,” said Darrin Polhemus, deputy director of the State Water Board’s Division of Drinking Water. Under the new requirement, testing is voluntary for schools, but if the schools make a written request, the community water systems must collect the samples within three months and report the results back to the school within two business days. Sampling locations can include drinking fountains, cafeteria and food preparation areas, and reusable water bottle filling stations. The one-time program extends until Nov. 1, 2019. The community water systems are responsible for the costs associated with collecting drinking water samples, analyzing them and reporting results through this new program. In addition, the State Water Board’s Division of Financial Assistance will have some funding available to assist with addressing lead found in tests, with a particular focus on schools in disadvantaged communities. Under the federal Lead and Copper Rule, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency already requires public water systems to test for lead at customers’ taps, targeting the highest risk homes based on the age of their plumbing. California’s compliance rate with the Lead and Copper Rule is among the highest in the country, but the rule does not require testing for schools and businesses. The Board’s new requirement ensures schools that want lead testing can receive it for free. The Board consulted with water systems and schools in developing the requirement. Existing federal and state programs provide guidance to help schools determine if a lead problem exists and how to remedy the contamination. And many school districts have already implemented testing programs. Protecting children from lead exposure is important for their development and lifelong good health. For more information on the lead sampling for schools program, see our frequently asked questions section of the lead sampling website.
END OF AN ERA: ANTHONY’S FISH GROTTO ON EMBARCADERO OFFERS DRAWINGS AND SPECIALS IN FINAL 2 WEEKS; LA MESA ANTHONY’S TO REMAIN OPEN
By Miriam Raftery January 17, 2017 (La Mesa) – Anthony’s Fish Grotto on the Embarcadero has been a fixture on San Diego’s waterfront for 70 years. For many San Diego County residents, it’s long been a go-to place for special occasions from prom nights to wedding anniversaries. On January 31st, the waterfront location will close its doors. Guests are invited to bid a fond farewell over the next two weeks, savoring specials and drawings for gift cards that can be redeemed at Anthony’s lakefront location in La Mesa, which will remain open. Embarcadero Anthony’s visitors can enjoy a cup of Mama Ghio’s legendary clam chowder for $2.50, with proceeds going to two of Mama’s favorite Charities: Father Joe’s Village and Whispering Winds Family Camp. In addition, diners can register for a drawing in which over $3,500 in $25 dining cards, valid at Anthony’s lakeside location in La Mesa, which will remain open. A fixture on San Diego’s waterfront since the end of World War II, Catherine “Mama” Ghio opened the original Anthony’s as a 16-seat diner at the old downtown ferry landing in 1946. The restaurant moved to its current location in 1965. Overwhelming success at this location made Anthony’s one of San Diego’s most iconic, visited and recognizable restaurants. You can follow Anthony’s Fish Grotto on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. For additional information about the restaurant or to make reservations, please call (619) 463-0368 or visit anthonysfishgrotto.com. About Anthony’s Fish Grotto – Embarcadero: Famed for its signature clam chowder and prime waterfront views, landmark seafood spot Anthony’s still uses original family recipes to serve what Zagat’s 2013 City Guide called San Diego’s Most Popular Seafood. Located at 1360 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Anthony’s is open daily for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and until 9:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. Please visit anthonysfishgrotto.com or call (619) 232-5103 for more information. About Anthony’s Fish Grotto – La Mesa: Set on a private lake, Anthony’s Fish Grotto La Mesa offers a full menu of seafood and other dishes, friendly service and atmospheric dining. Located at 9530 Murray Drive, La Mesa, CA 91942 Anthony’s on The Lake is open for lunch, brunch (Sundays only) and dinner from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The market is open between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily. Please visit anthonysfishgrotto.com or call (619) 463-0368 for more information.
BOYS BASKETBALL: FOOTHILLERS TRAMPLE MONARCHS 69-53
Do you have a son or daughter that plays a sport at a level other than varsity? Drop a line on this story or tweet @ECMagSports to request coverage! Like our sports coverage? Donate to help support ECM’s sports section! Follow @ECMagSports on Twitter for live sports coverage and stories! Story and photos by Liz Alper January 17, 2017 (Spring Valley) – The struggling Monte Vista Monarchs varsity boys basketball team looked to gain some momentum back against the Foothillers of Grossmont tonight. Despite their less-than-impressive record 4-12), the Monarchs were off to a hot start, with senior David Garcia leading the way with a quarter-ending two after a big three by Grossmont to put the Monarchs up 13-10 after one. But in the second quarter, the Foothillers flexed their three-ball muscles and were soon up 20-13. Before the Monarchs knew it, the game was completely out of their control; Grossmont dominated on offense and defense, the Monarchs couldn’t get a shot to fall and the Foothillers went to the locker room up big, 36-18. In the second half, the Monarchs got a bit of their fight back thanks to turnovers by the Hillers and a big third quarter from junior Deondre McHayle. But the Foothillers stayed strong and maintained an 11-point, 46-35 lead after three. As hard as the Monarchs fought, Grossmont fought harder. And they did it silently but deadly, with finger rolls, layups and turnovers. Monte Vista ran into serious foul trouble in the fourth and Grossmont kept up the scoring and won 69-53. The Monarchs fall to 4-13 on the season. Monte Vista travels to Santana High to take on the Sultans on Friday. Tipoff is at 7:00 p.m. As for Grossmont, they’ll host Serra on Saturday at 7:00 p.m.
CAMPO LAKE MORENA PLANNING GROUP MEETING JAN. 23 INCLUDES DISCUSSION OF SEWER RATE HIKES, LOW-FLYING HELICOPTERS AND FILLING VACANCY ON BOARD
January 17, 2017 (Campo) — Proposed sewer rate hikes and low-flying Navy helicopters are among the items slated for discussion at the Campo Lake Morena Planning Group’s meeting on Monday, January 23 at 7 p.m. The meeting will be in the Mountain Epire Community Center at 976 Sheridan Rd. in Campo. The planning group will also elect officers and review applicants to fill a vacancy for Seat 7. If you’re interested in applying, contact Chairman Billie Jo Jannen at (619)415-6298. The public is encouraged to attend and speak on any agenda item, or on other area land use issues during public discussion. View full preliminary agenda. The final agenda will be posted 72 hours before the meeting and may be found at the Campo branch of the U.S. Post Office, the San Diego County Lbirary and the Lake Morena Market bulletin board.