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Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber warns of ongoing threats to voting rights at East County Democratic Club meeting
Printer-friendly version Story and photo by Paul Levikow April 22, 2026 (Alpine) — California Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber recently delivered an assessment of the challenges facing the state’s electoral system, while urging vigilance and civic participation ahead of the 2026 elections. About 30 attendees gathered at The Alpine Club for the East
Villa Musica expanding to East County for 20th anniversary
Printer-friendly version East County News Service April 22, 2026 (El Cajon) — For two decades, the halls of Villa Musica’s Sorrento Valley headquarters have been alive with a specific kind of beautiful chaos — the steady thumps on the drum, soaring scales of soprano singers and the first notes of
News Issues
Villa Musica expanding to East County for 20th anniversary
Printer-friendly version East County News Service April 22, 2026 (El Cajon) — For two decades, the halls of Villa Musica’s Sorrento Valley headquarters have been alive with a specific kind of beautiful chaos — the steady thumps on the drum, soaring scales of soprano singers and the first notes of
San Diego Padres nearing record $3.9B sale
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service Photo courtesy San Diego Padres Facebook page April 20, 2026 (San Diego) — The current owners of the San Diego Padres, the Seidler family, are reportedly in the final stages of an agreement to sell the team to a group led by private equity billionaire José
Politics
Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber warns of ongoing threats to voting rights at East County Democratic Club meeting
Printer-friendly version Story and photo by Paul Levikow April 22, 2026 (Alpine) — California Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber recently delivered an assessment of the challenges facing the state’s electoral system, while urging vigilance and civic participation ahead of the 2026 elections. About 30 attendees gathered at The Alpine Club for the East
With Eric Swalwell’s scandalous implosion, Xavier Becerra surges in race for California governor
Printer-friendly versionBy Dan Walters This story was originally printed in CalMatters, the only nonprofit newsroom devoted solely to covering statewide issues that affect all Californians. Sign up for WeeklyMatters for a Saturday morning digest of the latest news and commentary from the Golden State. This story is part of California Voices, a commentary
Wildfires and Emergencies
Crest residents urged to take action against wildfire risks with free Home Assessment Program
Printer-friendly versionBy Morgan Dioli and Diana Griffin April 21, 2026 (Crest) – The Crest community is stepping up wildfire preparedness efforts by participating in the Fire Safe Council of San Diego County’s 2026 Home Assessment Program. It’s a free, voluntary service designed to help residents reduce wildfire risks and improve
Cal State University San Marcos and nearby homes evacuated due to brush fire
East County Wildfire & Emergency Alerts April 5, 2026 (San Marcos) – The #MoreeFire in San Marcos has led to evacuations, including the California State…
Events & Arts
Villa Musica expanding to East County for 20th anniversary
Printer-friendly version East County News Service April 22, 2026 (El Cajon) — For two decades, the halls of Villa Musica’s Sorrento Valley headquarters have been alive with a specific kind of beautiful chaos — the steady thumps on the drum, soaring scales of soprano singers and the first notes of
Book review:The Mission at Home: Navigating Military Assignments, TRICARE, Education, Benefits and Everyday Life with Your Child on the Autism Spectrum
Printer-friendly version Book by Jaime B. & Elizabeth Tracy Parent Reviewed by Pennell Paugh April 20, 2026 (San Diego) – Local authors Jaime and Elizabeth Parent have written a major reference for persons who have disabilities, with particular focus on those who have autism. While the book specifically addresses the
Visit East County
DESTINATIONS: Borrego and beyond — a beautiful backcountry day
Printer-friendly versionBy Karen Pearlman, with photos by Karen Pearlman and Miriam Raftery Feb. 22, 2026 (San Diego County) — With an early wildflower bloom in Borrego, now is a perfect time for a day trip through San Diego County’s beautiful backcountry, including mountain and desert destinations. Making the pilgrimage to
We need your help! We have more news tips for East County issues than our budget can cover
Printer-friendly versionLast year tapped our resources at East County Magazine more than any on record, with so many major news stories. This year, we’ve had requests from readers to cover lots of important local issues, but costs have soared with inflation. We need your help to report on local news
People
Eight local women Honored at Soroptimist’s annual “Live Your Dream” Awards Celebration
Printer-friendly versionSoroptimist International of Valley de Oro recognizes women overcoming extraordinary obstacles to build better lives through education By Henri Migala Photo: Soroptimist Live Your Dream Award winners. Seated (left to right): Dr. Peggy Fischer, DVM, Valley de Oro Club Chair; Tenisha Back row (left to right): Sue Bucheman (member);
Donate to help pets in need at Alpine Pet Food and Supply Drive April 4
East County News Service March 14, 2026 (Alpine) – Dog and cat food, treats, grooming supplies, new pet toys, feeding bowls, beds, blankets, crates/carriers, leashes,…
Communities
East County-based physician Charles Hamori honored by American College of Physicians
Printer-friendly version By Karen Pearlman April 21, 2026 (La Mesa) — When he was a teenager growing up in Muncie, Indiana, Charles Hamori performed his first successful medical diagnosis — on himself. Hamori was 14 when he correctly identified his own appendicitis, and it was at that moment (or soon
Crest residents urged to take action against wildfire risks with free Home Assessment Program
Printer-friendly versionBy Morgan Dioli and Diana Griffin April 21, 2026 (Crest) – The Crest community is stepping up wildfire preparedness efforts by participating in the Fire Safe Council of San Diego County’s 2026 Home Assessment Program. It’s a free, voluntary service designed to help residents reduce wildfire risks and improve
Features
Villa Musica expanding to East County for 20th anniversary
Printer-friendly version East County News Service April 22, 2026 (El Cajon) — For two decades, the halls of Villa Musica’s Sorrento Valley headquarters have been alive with a specific kind of beautiful chaos — the steady thumps on the drum, soaring scales of soprano singers and the first notes of
Book review:The Mission at Home: Navigating Military Assignments, TRICARE, Education, Benefits and Everyday Life with Your Child on the Autism Spectrum
Printer-friendly version Book by Jaime B. & Elizabeth Tracy Parent Reviewed by Pennell Paugh April 20, 2026 (San Diego) – Local authors Jaime and Elizabeth Parent have written a major reference for persons who have disabilities, with particular focus on those who have autism. While the book specifically addresses the
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HO! HO! HO! SANTA AT THE LAKES DECEMBER 9
Printer-friendly versionNovember 26, 2012 (Santee) – Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve will be holding Santa at the Lakes on December 9 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be snow for sledding, pony rides, a petting zoo, carnival rides and craft booths. The star of the event will be Santa. Parking is $5 per vehicle and activity and ride tickets
FREE AQUAPONICS CLASSES FOR REFUGEES: LEARN HOW TO GROW FISH AND VEGETABLES WITH NO SOIL
Printer-friendly versionNovember 25, 2012 (San Diego’s East County)—Refugees living in El Cajon and City Heights are invited to free workshops at the New Roots Aqua Farm, 4035 Fairmount Avenue in San Diego. Learn how to grow healthy organic vegetables in urban areas with no soil and minimal water! Also see New Roots’ 1,200 square foot aquaponics system that includes fish
A HOLIDAY CELEBRATION AT KEYS CREEK LAVENDER FARM ON DEC. 8
Printer-friendly version November 25, 2012 (Valley Center) – Keys Creek Lavender Farm is holding its first ever holiday celebration on December 8 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at 12460 Keys Creek Rd., Valley Center. The event will feature live music, vendors, booths, holiday lights, food, drinks, gift wrapping and lavender goodies. The farm will also be releasing its own
WHAT ‘S UP WITH THIS DOWN MARKET?
Printer-friendly versionBy Kurt Wannebo, CEO, San Diego Real Estate and Investments (SDREI) November 26, 2012 (San Diego)–Did you know that right now that we are actually in a seller’s market and prices are starting to go up? If you are a buyer waiting for the bottom of the market to buy, news flash, you already missed it by a couple
NRC TO HEAR CITIZENS OVERSIGHT ARGUMENTS ON LICENSURE AMENDMENT FOR SAN ONOFRE DEC. 5
Printer-friendly versionNovember 26, 2012 (Washington D.C.)– The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Atomic Safety and Licensing Board (NRC) has ordered that oral arguments be heard at 1:00 pm EST on Wednesday, December 5 from Citizens’ Oversight (COPS) and Southern California Edison (SCE) regarding a license amendment request by SCE for the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station. “COPS requested that the event
KEYBOARD ARTISTS CELEBRATE WITH PIANO PARTY
Printer-friendly versionNovember 27, 2012 (Alpine)—Piano students of Suzie Steenbergen held their autumn piano party recital celebration on November 18 in the sanctuary at Christ the King Episcopal Church in Alpine. “It was a fine afternoon and 50+ family members and friends gathered to hear piano music on the church’s lovely piano,” Steenbergen said. Photo caption: Left to right:Alex Speck,
KIWANIS JOINS EFFORT TO HELP SHOCKEY FIRE FAMILY
Printer-friendly versionDonations needed to repair trailer for winter November 26, 2012 (Jacumba) – Kiwanis Clubs in Campo and Crest have joined forces to assist a family with a two-year-old child. The family, who lost their home in the Shockey Fire, has been living in a temporary arrangement but was able to purchase a fifth-wheel trailer thanks to community donations. More
“LIGHTING AT THE LAKES: SOLAR TREE TO SHINE IN SANTEE DEC. 8
Printer-friendly version November 25, 2012 (Santee) – The Santee Lakes Foundation, in concert with San Diego State University, SDG&E and the Santee Lakes Preserve presents the inaugural “Lighting at the Lakes – 2012” December 8 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Lake One under the new Pavilion. As a special project of SDSU Graduate School candidates, the largest Christmas
SING-ALONG CHRISTMAS CAROLING ON MT. HELIX DEC. 16
Printer-friendly versionNovember 25, 2012 (La Mesa) – Sounds of the season will emanate from the Mt. Helix Park Amphitheatre on December 16 from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. during the annual Sing-along Christmas Caroling event. Gina Seashore, known locally as That Music Lady, will be leading the caroling with her regular group of musicians. A visiting barber shop quartet of elves
FIFTH ANNUAL “STUFF THE BUS” HOLIDAY FOOD DRIVE DEC. 1 AT ALBERTSONS STORES
Printer-friendly versionALBERTSONS pre-packaged food bags coupled with other generous donations will help meet the 15,000 lb. goal November 25, 2012 (San Diego) – Within the last five years, the number of San Diego residents relying on the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank for their meals has almost doubled. In these challenging economic times, the Food Bank is feeding
NOMINATIONS SOUGHT FOR EL CAJON CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
Printer-friendly versionSource: San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce December 24, 2024 (El Cajon) — The El Cajon community of volunteers will once again select its Citizen of the Year from among the many that donate time and talent for the betterment of El Cajon. Nominations will be made by volunteer organizations based or active in El Cajon
BILL WALTON TRIBUTE TO HONOR BASKETBALL GREAT AT HELIX HIGH ON JANUARY 3
Printer-friendly versionTickets on sale now at https://www.gofan.co/event/2594824?schoolId=CA22796 By Ben Perez December 23, 2024 (La Mesa) –Always saying he was honored to be from East County, “Billy from La Mesa” is how Bill Walton wanted people to know him and greet him. So it’s only fitting that his high school alma mater in La Mesa is honoring him
HEAR OUR INTERVIEWS WITH LOCAL LABOR LEADERS
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery December 21, 2024 (San Diego) – Our guests on our East County Magazine Radio Show on KNSJ 89.1 FM this week were Brigette Browning, President of the San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council, along with Ollivia Aguirre, a striking worker, mother of two young children, and psychosocial clinician currently on strike at Kaiser Healthcare
POLICE RELEASE NAME OF SUSPECT FATALLY SHOT BY EL CAJON POLICE AFTER RAMMING OFFICER
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery Photo by Robert Gehr: skid marks where suspect’s vehicle drove onto sidewalk outside SDPD headquarters, moments before the deadly incident. December 21, 2024 (El Cajon) – The individual who was shot and killed by El Cajon Police officers on December 11 has been identified as 24-year-old Benjamin Grube. Earlier reports had listed the suspect as a woman.
COUNTY WARNS AGAINST RAW MILK PRODUCTS AMID BIRD FLU RISK
Printer-friendly versionBy Fernanda Lopez Halvorson, County of San Diego Communications Office Photo courtesy of the CDC December 21, 2024 (San Diego) – County public health officials are warning San Diegans not to eat or drink raw milk products or give them to their pets because of the heightened risk for H5N1, or bird flu. Because raw milk and raw milk
SUPERVISORS’ CHAIR NORA VARGAS TO STEP DOWN OVER “SAFETY AND SECURITY” CONCERNS
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery Times of San Diego and Voice of San Diego contributed to this report Photo by Chris Stone, Times of San Diego: Nora Vargas at a 2022 rally December 20, 2024 (San Diego)—In an announcement that surprised even her staff, San Diego County Supervisors’ Chair Nora Vargas today announced she will step down January 6 at
GKN AEROSPACE OPENS NEW STATE-OF-THE-ART PLANT, BRINGING AEROSPACE JOBS TO EL CAJON
Printer-friendly versionBy Mike Allen Photo: Workers at GKN opening ceremony December 18, 2024 (El Cajon) — The site that was once planned as an Amazon warehouse is taking shape to house some of the most sophisticated machinery in the world, as well as the skilled workers to run it. Just across the street from Gillespie Field at the confluence of
LEGISLATION TO PRESERVE JAMUL TRIBAL LAND PASSES HOUSE, HEADS TO PRESIDENT’S DESK
Printer-friendly version East County News Service December 18, 2024 (Washington D.C.) — Today, legislation authored by Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) to place 172 acres of land in East County, San Diego into tribal trust for the Jamul Indian Village passed the House and heads to President Joe Biden’s desk to be signed into law, after a companion measure authored by
CAMERAS HELP EL CAJON POLICE FIND DRIVER IN HIT-AND-RUN PEDESTRIAN FATALITY
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery December 17, 2024 (El Cajon) – The driver who fled the scene after hitting and killing a pedestrian on December 8 at 5:14 p.m. near 1368 East Main Street has been arrested for felony hit and run. Police used information from a witness and the city’s Flock license plate reader system to obtain a photo
WOMAN’S BODY FOUND OFF HIGHWAY IN DESCANSO
Printer-friendly versionUpdate December 17, 2024 7 p.m.: The victim has been identified as Jane Hannah Cronin of San Diego. East County News Service December 17, 2024 (Descanso) – The body of a 29-year-old woman was found on December 11 near the intersection of State Route 79 and Wildwood Glen Lane in Descanso. “We are withholding her name until next of
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