Dogs yes, waste no In an update to the existing issue of off-leash dogs at Calumet Park, President Joe Parker said at the April 5 Bird Rock Community Council meeting that the problem seemed to have been somewhat alleviated, though it still requires more effort and education to let residents know that dogs are required to be on a leash in the popular picnic area. Parker said that in addition to tearing up the grass and making picnicking less desirable, the problem has now become one of waste. “Dog waste is a major concern because it’s a health issue and the amount of dog waste there is significant,” he said. “My biggest concern is that the overlook there is a treasured place, and the activities that have been going on are making it difficult to enjoy it.” Parker said he has been told animal control officers will be patrolling the area and issuing tickets. “I’m not anti-dogs,” he said. “I’m a dog lover and a dog owner. As a community, we’re just asking people to exercise the normal rules of engagement when it comes to having a dog in public.” Fruits of their labor On the heels of the news that the sponsors of the proposed Bird Rock Farmers Market will not pursue the project in the near future, Bird Rock Elementary, which had stood to gain from the proceeds of the proposed market, has had at least some consolation — 5,680 consolations, in fact. The numbers recently came in that the sale of Bird Rock Community Cookbooks resulted in a donation of $5,680 to the school. The elementary school will continue to raise money through its numerous yearly fundraisers. In other news… • Parker, along with other community members, continues to push to raise awareness and jumpstart fundraising to assist the La Jolla Recreation Center, which has fallen on hard financial times. The center may have to decrease hours if it can’t supplement its private donations. • The San Diego Environmental Services Department will conduct a trash pickup on April 21. The department will collect items such as appliances, electronics, lawnmowers, metals, wood, yard trimmings, carpeting and furniture in the area bounded by La Jolla Boulevard, Chelsea Street, Midway Street and Ridge Drive. • Though crime in the neighborhood has decreased in recent months, the BRCC is asking residents to be vigilant of suspicious activity, as some residential burglaries have been reported recently in the area. Bird Rock residents were happy to learn at the April 5 BRCC meeting that the “Rancho Relaxo” house and its property were sold to a new owner, who has begun renovations on the home.