The unwavering commitment by the San Diego Padres and JMI Realty to give San Diegans "more than a ballpark" is boldly evident today as blocks of new hotel, retail and residential development transform the once blighted East Village District into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood.

The North County Transit District is offering a new link between Oceanside and Escondido in the form of the county's first light rail line of its kind. Called the Sprinter, it includes user-friendly rail cars that will carry passengers through Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos and Escondido faster than the express bus using the latest transit technology.

Let's get ready to rumble -- with the heavy construction equipment, that is, not the fisticuffs.

National City's revitalization efforts are fast gaining momentum, driven by the vision of new Mayor Nick Inzunza who has committed to the implementation of an aggressive plan for economic development and community improvements during his coming four-year term.