At its June 19 meeting, Olivenhain Municipal Water District’s Board of Directors recognized four photographers for winning images in its 17th annual Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve photo contest, according to a news release.
The contest was open to amateur photographers of all ages. Winning photos feature the natural beauty of the 784-acre reserve located near Escondido.
“We are grateful for the stunning contest photos received this year. Countless individuals will see the views offered by our 11 miles of trails,” said OMWD Board Director Marco San Antonio in the news release.
OMWD received over 200 entries submitted in five categories: Scenic View, Water Scenery, Plants, Animals, and Youth (age 15 and under). EFRR Facebook followers selected a People’s Choice award winner by voting for their favorite of 19 entries posted online. This year’s winners are:
–“Warbler with Bee” by Keith Kelley – Best in Show–“Leaf Race” by Keith Kelley – Water Scenery–“Quack” by Keith Kelley – Animals–“Mushroom :)” by Adrian Flores – Plants–“Overlooked Elegance” by Ray Santiago – Youth–“Winter color palette on the creek” by Sylvia Gaffney – Scenic View–“Serenity by the Creek” by Sylvia Gaffney – People’s Choice
San Diego Zoo, California Wolf Center, and EcoVivarium Reptile Sanctuary donated tickets as prizes. Prizes also included a canvas print donated by PC Photo & Imaging, outdoor equipment donated by REI, and a cash prize donated by the Escondido Creek Conservancy.
Beginning in July 2024, EFRR visitors can view winning photographs at the Elfin Forest Interpretive Center Honoring Susan J. Varty. The center is open daily, subject to docent availability. Current hours of operation are available by calling 760-632-4212. Address: 8833 Harmony Grove Road, Escondido, 92029.
![The City of Encinitas held an unveiling of a series of mosaic panels on Aug. 10 at the El Portal Undercrossing. These mosaics, created by local students and artist Jeremy Wright of Campana Studios, celebrate the rich history and vibrant culture of Encinitas, according to a news release. The El Portal Mosaic Project is a unique public art initiative that brought together approximately 600 elementary students from Paul Ecke Central School and high school students from San Dieguito Academy. The panels, inspired by the history of Encinitas, were designed and fabricated by the students under the guidance of artist Jeremy […]](https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ENA-L-mural6.jpg?w=525 "The City of Encinitas held an unveiling of a series of mosaic panels on Aug. 10 at the El Portal Undercrossing. These mosaics, created by local students and artist Jeremy Wright of Campana Studios, celebrate the rich history and vibrant culture of Encinitas, according to a news release. The El Portal Mosaic Project is a unique public art initiative that brought together approximately 600 elementary students from Paul Ecke Central School and high school students from San Dieguito Academy. The panels, inspired by the history of Encinitas, were designed and fabricated by the students under the guidance of artist Jeremy […]")
![A San Dieguito Union High School District board candidate will not be able to call himself an “educator” on the November ballot after a Superior Court judge ruled Aug. 28 that it would be “false and misleading.” Kevin Sabellico is challenging incumbent Michael Allman for a District 4 seat on the board of trustees that includes Rancho Santa Fe, Carmel Valley and Del Mar. Sabellico originally had approval from the Registrar of Voters Cynthia L. Paes to use “educator/board member” under his name. Paes suggested that particular designation as she reviewed his ballot designation worksheet, emails between the two show. […]](https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/DMT-L-SDUHSD_838cc8-1.jpg?w=620 "A San Dieguito Union High School District board candidate will not be able to call himself an “educator” on the November ballot after a Superior Court judge ruled Aug. 28 that it would be “false and misleading.” Kevin Sabellico is challenging incumbent Michael Allman for a District 4 seat on the board of trustees that includes Rancho Santa Fe, Carmel Valley and Del Mar. Sabellico originally had approval from the Registrar of Voters Cynthia L. Paes to use “educator/board member” under his name. Paes suggested that particular designation as she reviewed his ballot designation worksheet, emails between the two show. […]")