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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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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
BRIDGETTE HALE’S FAMILY TAKES SAFETY MESSAGE NATIONAL: NTSB ISSUES GUIDELINES TO REDUCE IMPAIRED DRIVING AFTER FATAL CRASH ON HWY 67
Printer-friendly versionNovember 25, 2012 (Ramona) – “Since the State of California has ignored my requests and pleas for help in saving innocent lives from dying on California Highways, I took my fight to the federal level,” Ken Vanek, brother-in-law of Bridgette Hale, told East Couinty Magazine. Now the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) on November 23 has issued new recommendations to reduce impaired
SHOTS FIRED AT OFFICER IN LAKESIDE
Printer-friendly version November 26, 2012 (Lakeside) – ECM news partner 10 News reports that shots were fired at 1:45 a.m. at a Sheriff’s deputy in the 12700 block of Laurel Street in Lakeside. The deputy, who was not injured, said he thought the shots came from the Beechtreet Street and Pino Drive vicinity. A search for the gunman was not
UCCLM CHANCEL CHOIR PRESENTS ‘I BELIEVE, A CHRISTMAS CANTATA’ DEC. 16
Printer-friendly versionNovember 25, 2012 (La Mesa) – The United Church of Christ La Mesa Chancel Choir will present “I Believe” on Dec. 16 at 10 a.m. at 5940 Kelton Avenue, La Mesa. The cantata, composed by John F. Wilson , will be highlighted with a multi-media presentation of scenes depicting the Christmas story. The concert is free and all are
POLICE SEEK ARMED GUNMEN WHO ROBBED FAMILY, FORCED MOM AND CHILDREN INTO CLOSET
Printer-friendly versionNovember 26, 2012 (San Diego) – San Diego Police seek two suspects who followed two children into a City Heights home, than forced the youngsters and their mother into a closet at gunpoint at 6:34 on Sunday. Suspects then ransacked the house at 3230 Menlo Avenue in the Swan Canyon area and stole property before fleeing. Detailed descriptions of
TODAY IS “GIVING TUESDAY” — GET SHOPPING DISCOUNTS AND SUPPORT WORTHY CAUSES—INCLUDING EAST COUNTY MAGAZINE
Printer-friendly versionThis Giving Tuesday, Millions of People Turn Every Day Actions into Support for a Cause November 27 2012 (San Diego’s East County)—Today is “Giving Tuesday,” when people across the U.S. help give back to their favorite causes. Through Goodsearch, GoodShop and GoodDining, more than 15 million people are helping to “simply do good.” Over 2,500 merchants are offering special discounts this Tuesday, November
CITY HEIGHTS RESIDENT BURNED IN APARTMENT FIRE
Printer-friendly version November 28, 2012 (City Heights) — A resident suffered burns and was transported to a hospital in CPR status early this morning, Incident Page Network reports. The fire occurred in apartment at 4974 Marlborough Drive in City Heights. The blaze was reported at 2:15 a.m. by a resident in the building. Fire crews from San DIego Fire arrived
DID YOU CASH IN ON BLACK FRIDAY OR CYBER MONDAY DEALS?
Printer-friendly versionSave Your Receipts – You Might Owe Use Tax November 27, 2012 (Sacramento) — Many California consumers are already cashing in on early Black Friday and Cyber Monday specials offered online or via smart phone applications. Michelle Steel, Third District Member of the State Board of Equalization (BOE), reminds you to save your receipts because you may owe use tax for
DIVORCE FAMILIES CAN STILL ENJOY HAPPY HOLIDAYS—WITH A LITTLE PLANNING
Printer-friendly versionCommunication, courtesy and putting your kids first goes a long way By Myra Chack Fleischer, Fleischer & Associates November 28, 2012 (San Diego)–The holidays aren’t always warm and fuzzy like a Hallmark card for divorced and separated parents. Phones start ringing off the hook in family law offices all over the country including Fleischer & Associates as families start
BRUSH FIRE ON INTERSTATE 8
Printer-friendly versionNovember 25, 2012 (El Cajon ) – A brush fire is burning along Interstate 8 west at East Main Street in El Cajon. The fire is burning uphill in medium fuel. CHP shut down the freeway briefly but one lane is now reopened. Further east, a car fire on I-8 east near Jacumba is also impacting traffic. Sign up
BB GUN SEIZED FROM LEMON GROVE STUDENT
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service December 17, 2024 (Lemon Grove) – Students at Lemon Grove Academy Middle School saw a student with what appeared to be a firearm in his backpack on Friday, December 13, but didn’t report it to school staff until Monday, December 16. School administrators immediately contacted the Lemon Grove substation. Deputies questioned the 14-year-old student and
ECM WORLD WATCH
Printer-friendly versionDecember 17, 2024 — As part of our commitment to reflect all voices and views, we include links to a variety of news sources representing a broad spectrum of political, religious, and social views. Top world and U.S. headlines include: U.S. Trump vows new Canada, Mexico, China tariffs that threaten global trade (Reuters) China bans exports to US of gallium, germanium,
TRAVELING TO THE UNITED KINGDOM? A UK ETA (ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AUTHORIZATION) VISA IS NEEDED STARTING JANUARY 8, 2025
Printer-friendly versionVisas required for other European countries as well By Rebecca Jefferis Williamson December 17, 2024 (San Diego) – The new year brings in new travel visa requirements for travel, even in transit, for the United Kingdom. Starting January 8, 2025, an ETA (electronic travel authorization) is required for American citizens and have it approved, and in place, if you
BUSINESS JOURNAL HONORS SAN DIEGO REGIONAL FIRE FOUNDATION LEADER JOAN JONES AS NONPROFIT EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery December 17, 2024 (San Diego) – Joan Jones, Vice Chair and Executive Director of the San Diego Regional Fire Foundation, has been named Mid-Size Nonprofit Executive of the Year by the San Diego Business Journal. According to the Journal, Jones has raised $10 million for the San Diego Regional Fire Foundation, with a grant success
CALIFORNIANS PAY BILLIONS FOR POWER COMPANIES’ WILDFIRE PREVENTION EFFORTS. ARE THEY COST-EFFECTIVE?
Printer-friendly versionBy Alejandro Lazo, CalMatters CalMatters is a public interest journalism venture committed to explaining how California’s state Capitol works and why it matters Photo: contractors with PG&E work in a trench to lay underground electric cables in Placer County on Oct. 17, 2024. Burying lines and other wildfire prevention projects have raised the price of electricity in California. Photo by
EAST COUNTY ROUNDUP: LOCAL AND STATEWIDE NEWS
Printer-friendly versionDecember 16, 2024 (San Diego’s East County) — East County Roundup highlights top stories of interest to East County and San Diego’s inland regions, published in other media. This week’s round-up stories include: LOCAL Mysterious car-sized drones spotted in night sky above San Diego County (CBS 8) Desert sculptor who created iconic Borrego Springs creatures hospitalized (NBC 7) San
HEALTH AND SCIENCE HIGHLIGHTS
Printer-friendly versionDecember 16, 2024 (San Diego’s East County) — Our Health and Science Highlights provide cutting edge news that could impact your health and our future. HEALTH A twice-yearly shot could help end AIDS. But will it get to everyone who needs it? (AP) Hospitals gave patients meds during childbirth, then reported them for illicit drug use (USA Today) Brian
SUSTAINABLE HOLIDAYS MADE SIMPLE: HOW AND WHERE TO RECYCLE REAL CHRISTMAS TREES IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY
Printer-friendly versionDrop-off locations and curbside pickup info for all San Diego County residents Source: I Love a Clean San Diego Image: CC via Bing December 14, 2024 (San Diego) — Did you know a Christmas tree can take hundreds of years to decompose in a landfill due to lack of oxygen? San Diego residents can help prevent waste and save
LESSONS FROM THE MAGIC HORSE
Printer-friendly version By Olivia Barnard December 10, 2024 (Lakeside) — I first met Robin Pawl and her horses Shelby, Indy, Ka Lio, and Phoenix on a Saturday afternoon. The faded Lakeside hills framed the riding center as hawks called out and the pepper trees swayed. I loved horses growing up, but I had never been on a ranch. I didn’t
CITIES, COUNTY IN CROSSHAIRS BETWEEN FEDERAL AND STATE GOVERNMENTS OVER AIDING MASS DEPORTATION OF IMMIGRANTS
Printer-friendly version County approves tough migrant protections, but Sheriff says state laws should prevail; El Cajon Council weighs city’s legal and moral obligations Update: The letter sent by Mayor Wells to the Attorney General is now available here.The letter states that the City Council is considering a resolution declaring the city’s intent to “comply with federal immigration laws and assist
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