Fire at Gingham, Firings at the Chargers, and Fired Up Kids with Free Bikes

At La Mesa-Mount Helix Patch, we know that in your busy lives there may be some stories that you can't read about the day they happen. With the "Week That Was" column, we'll provide a roundup of the most important stories of the week.

The most explosive story of the week (pun intended) occurred yesterday, when in the early morning hours of Sunday, several propane tanks exploded outside Gingham restaurant in the downtown village. Witnesses reported seeing fireballs as high as 10 feet high, and the exterior of the popular eatery was charred. The restaurant's Facebook page said that the plan is to reopen on Tuesday.

Propane Explosions Char Gingham Restaurant Exterior; Nobody Is Hurt

A touching story about the widow of former Grossmont head football coach Ron Murphy, Dani, and how she found solace and a new friend on a trip to Half Dome.

The Rock on Half Dome: How Dani and Sylvia Found Triumph Amid Tragedy

Those in the holiday spirit are invited to come to the top of Mount Helix on Sunday, Dec. 16 to participate in the annual Christmas caroling event. Details can be found in the article.

In local business stories, the Fresh & Easy grocery store on Campo Road in Casa de Oro may soon close, as the British-owned chain is planning to close all of its stores.

Another antique store is slated for La Mesa as well, based on data from the latest business licenses issued for the city.

Fresh & Easy in Spring Valley May Close Store

New Antique Retail Store Coming to 8800 Block of La Mesa Boulevard

Chargers president Dean Spanos has rejected a U-T San Diego report that head coach Norv Turner and general manager AJ Smith will be fired at year's end. The story, written by beat writer Kevin Acee, says that sources within the organization have said the underwhelming pair will be gone.

It was a real-life "Oprah" moment at a Spring Valley school last week, when 2nd and 3rd graders at Highlands Elementary were given bikes for Christmas. The giveaway was a surprise to the kids. The bikes were donated by local nonprofit Bikes For Kids.

‘Oprah’ Moment at School: ‘Everyone's Gonna Get a Bike!’ [Video]