Harry Griffen Park Goes Even Greener Saturday for Eco-Festival

Wondering how to join the growing "green" movement without having to sit through two hours of Al Gore's soliloquies?  The city of La Mesa's Environmental Sustainability Commission invites you to check out the booths, exhibits and speakers at the 3rd annual "Sustain La Mesa" festival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Harry Griffen Park just north of Grossmont High School.

In addition to tips on hydroponic gardening, solar ovens, electric cars, urban trees, xeriscape landscaping and energy efficiency, the festival will feature a bulb exchange, in which residential SDG&E customers can replace up to five bulbs and two halogen fixtures with energy-efficient lights.

La Mesans can also bring in all those pesky recyclables that aren't allowed in their weekly pickup: electronics, all plastics including shrink wrap and bags, clean formed Styrofoam, metals and glass (no hazardous waste, tape or labels).

Expert speakers will cover a range of topics throughout the day, including water conservation, fruit tree gardening, hydroponics and commuting.  And for families, the event will showcase the winners of the 2010 "Our Planet, Our Home" K-12 Literacy and Art Contest.

For more information about this free festival, visit La Mesa's website at www.cityoflamesa.com.  For details about the SDG&E bulb exchange, go to www.sdge.com/saveenergy.

Musical on life of Jose Rizal

Dr. Jose Rizal, the most prominent advocate for reforms in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial era, was executed for his beliefs but lives on through his writing and art, along with a national Filipino holiday. The musical drama "Rizal Atbp" tells the story of his tireless work against injustice, presented by Bread of Life Asian Ministries at 6 p.m. Saturday at the Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center.  Tickets are $20. For more information, see http://kroccenter.org/special-events/ or call (619) 913-3448.

Fire Prevention Week Open House

Join the La Mesa Fire Department for educational, family-oriented activities to spread fire safety awareness.  Topics will include the power of smoke alarms, newer options for installing and maintaining alarms, and how to protect loved ones from fire. This free event,  from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at La Mesa's Fire Station 11 on Allison Avenue, will also feature refreshments and prizes for kids.  Check out http://www.cityoflamesa.com/CurrentEvents.aspx?EID=1855 for more information or call (619) 667-1355.

Stars out at Mission Trails

View stars, planets and other galactic features during an evening of stargazing at Mission Trails Regional Park.  The San Diego Astronomy Association hosts the free gathering the second Friday of each month, and provides telescopes for attendees.  Meet at 7 p.m. Friday at the Kumeyaay Lake Campground's day use parking lot.  For more information, call (619) 668-3281 or visit http://www.mtrp.org/events.asp?actiontype=showdate&the_date=10/8/2010