Report shows slight increase in violent crime
The violent crime rate in San Diego County increased from its 10-year low in mid-2005 while property crime declined during the first six months of 2006, according to a report released Nov. 6 from the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG).
The report called “Crime in the San Diego Region: Mid-Year 2006” details crime for all 18 cities and other county communities and serves as a tool for local law enforcement agencies in gauging the effectiveness of various prevention programs.
A total of 6,740 violent crimes were reported to local law enforcement agencies from January to June 2006, an average of 37 per day.
While violent crime, including homicide, rape, robbery and assault, increased from 4.35 per 1,000 in 2005 to 4.40 per 1,000 mid-year 2006 across the region, the city of San Diego was among seven areas with a lower crime rate in mid-year 2006.
A total of 46,426 property crimes were reported to local law enforcement agencies in the first half of the year, about 256 per day. The majority of crimes (56 percent) were larcenies, 26 percent were motor vehicle thefts and 18 percent were burglaries.
For the third year in a row, the mid-year crime rate decreased from 32 per 1,000 residents in 2005 to 30.28 in 2006. Almost two-thirds of the 25 reporting agencies had a decrease in property crime rates mid-year 2006.
Numbers of actual crimes for communities including La Jolla, La Jolla Village and University City for the year 2005 were 166 total violent crimes and 3,410 total property crimes. Reports for January to September 2006 show 98 total violent crimes and 2,695 total property crimes.

Bird Rock drive collects practical gifts for kids
Two Bird Rock merchants, A Better Deal Discount Designer Tuxedos and La Jolla Mailbox Rentals, are holding the sixth annual gift drive for children at the A.B. and Jessie Polinsky Children’s Center.
Both businesses will serve as drop-off locations for gift items, and more than 75 items, such as clothing and radios, have already been collected, according to Jerry Klein, owner of A Better Deal.
“It’s what Christmas should be all about — giving,” Klein said. “Giving to people who need items and making their lives better for it. These children didn’t do anything to deserve to be where they are, and it’s one way that we can be responsive to their needs.”
Donations will be accepted until Friday, Dec. 22, at which time Klein and others will distribute the items to the Polinsky Center.
The center is a 24-hour facility that acts as a temporary emergency shelter for up to 250 children, from infants through age 18, who are taken from unsafe living situations.
Klein emphasized the impact the gifts make for children at the center, who often arrive with nothing more than the clothing they are wearing.
“We are looking for real practical gifts for them: clothing, quilts, books, sporting equipment, arts and crafts supplies,” he said. “Whatever they can get is appreciated.”
The drive is not accepting used items and all donations are tax deductible, according to Klein.
“I know everyone is busy during the holidays, but we are willing to even drive over to people’s houses to pick items up,” he said.
Donations can be dropped off weekdays between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays, at A Better Deal Discount Designer Tuxedos, 369 La Jolla Blvd.; and between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays and 9:30 a.m. to noon Saturdays at La Jolla Mailbox Rentals, 5666 La Jolla Blvd.
For more information, contact Klein, (858) 551-6044.

Braille Institute classes help with vision loss
The Braille Institute is offering free classes on how to remain independent despite vision loss.
Classes are held Tuesdays through Dec. 5 at Wesley Palms, 2404 Loring St., from 1 to 2 p.m.
Participants will learn new ways of doing daily tasks, such managing the home, using visual aids to maximize remaining vision and how to receive books-on-tape and other free services through the Braille Institute.
For information or to sign up for classes, call Vicki Zimmerman-Fox, community outreach coordinator, (858) 452-1111 ext. 5033.

Bishop’s Tea is Dec. 1
The 17th annual Christmas Tea at The Bishop’s School will take place on Friday, Dec. 1, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. “Deck the Halls” will feature tea sandwiches and sweets, a live Nativity procession and music by The Bishop’s Singers. Tickets ($25 adults, $15 students) must be purchased in advance by calling (858) 459-4021, ext. 235.