During the community celebration in 2003, the Lakeside Chamber of Commerce sponsored many activities in, and around, Lakeside.  One of those special events was a walking tour of the historic district and businesses around town.  For the last few years, the Society has had the Olde Community Church on this tour.  This year far surpassed years before with participation of 960 school children, plus teachers and parents.  The children ranged from pre-school through fifth grade from numerous schools within walking distance of our building.  They sang Christmas carols, and asked many questions about the Olde Church.
  Those who opened and shared the building were: Olga Puhn, Elaine Brack, Ray and Barbara Whitlock, and Betty McMillen.  We are sure the numbers will continue to grow with our new museum being added to the tour.

  The San Diego River Park - Lakeside Conservancy is happy to announce that they closed escrow on 80 acres of river front property on Christmas Eve day.  What a wonderful gift to the community.
  Lakeside's vision of actually having a public park for riding, hiking and biking is getting closer to becoming a reality.  The land is located between Highway 67 and the elusive SD River. It will be added to the 23 acres of land that Hanson Aggregate (formerly Nelson Sloan) donated to the River Park last year.
  Known as Cal Mat, the land, which is zoned M54 industrial, was purchased from Vulcan Materials at fair market value. Several grants were obtained to purchase the land and propositions 13 and 40, which Lakeside voters supported, helped with the funding.
  An on site dedication event is being planned for February. Everyone is invited attend. For information call the Conservancy office at 443-4770.