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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
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
News Issues
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
‘Bill Walton Way’ coming to a street near you in La Mesa
Printer-friendly version The Boys & Girls Club of East County La Mesa Clubhouse honored local basketball star Bill Walton by naming the gym after Walton in 2018. Walton died of colon cancer at age 71 in 2024. Story and photos by Karen Pearlman April 14, 2026 (La Mesa) — Bill Walton, who preferred
Politics
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
La Mesa City Council votes 5-0 approving e-bike safety pilot program
Printer-friendly versionBy Karen Pearlman April 16, 2026 (La Mesa) — La Mesa is the latest city in San Diego County seeking to codify strict regulations on electric bicycles, specifically looking to protect riders under 12. On Tuesday, the La Mesa City Council unanimously voted to establish a new e-bike safety pilot program
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
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
Review of Ethan Talks to Animals: Eat Your Food Fussy Filo, by Nico Waters
Printer-friendly version Reviewed by Pennell Paugh April 20, 2026 (San Diego) — San Diego author Nico Waters has written a series of books for children. In Ethan Talks to Animals, second grader Ethan can talk to animals. Together with his dog, Chewie, Ethan helps their next-door neighbor’s cat eat his
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
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
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);
Features
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
Review of Ethan Talks to Animals: Eat Your Food Fussy Filo, by Nico Waters
Printer-friendly version Reviewed by Pennell Paugh April 20, 2026 (San Diego) — San Diego author Nico Waters has written a series of books for children. In Ethan Talks to Animals, second grader Ethan can talk to animals. Together with his dog, Chewie, Ethan helps their next-door neighbor’s cat eat his
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COUPLE BRUTALLY ASSAULTED IN LEMON GROVE WHILE COLLECTING CARDBOARD
Printer-friendly versionNovember 20, 2012 (Lemon Grove) – Sheriff’s detectives in Lemon Grove have arrested Wyatt Kirk Bradley, 24, of San Diego for a brutal attack on an elderly couple assaulted on November 14 in broad daylight at 2:05 p.m. The couple was collecting cardboard to make ends meet behind a strip mall in the 7000 block of Broadway in Lemon
RAMONA GROUP SEEKS TO HAVE CPUC MOVE MEETING ON SDG&E WILDFIRE REIMBURSEMENT TO SAN DIEGO
Printer-friendly versionThe California Public Utilities Commission has announced that its November 29 meeting agenda in San Francisco will include SDG&E’s proposed Wildfire Expense Balancing Account (WEBA), the utility’s proposal to charge ratepayers for uninsured costs of wildfires. But the Mussey Grade Road Alliance, a Ramona citizens group, has filed a request asking the commission to move the meeting to San
HOT TIPS FOR A SAFE THANKSGIVING DAY FEAST
Printer-friendly versionBy Bill Weaver November 21, 2012 (San Diego) – Thanksgiving is almost upon us and family and friends will come together to celebrate. Food safety is very important because large amounts of food are often prepared and served. Here are a few safety tips to prevent microscopic unwanted guests from joining your party: • PLAN AHEAD: Decide how much
VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS OF 2012 MOTHER GOOSE CENTENNIAL PARADE IN EL CAJON
Printer-friendly versionNovember 21, 2012 (El Cajon) – ECM videographer Paul Kruze captured video highlights from the 2012 Mother Goose Parade, celebrating 100 years of El Cajon history in the city’s centennial year. This year’s parade featured fewer Hollywood celebrities than in the recent past, drawing on hometown heroes, Western equestrian groups, high school marching bands and a city centennial float
WORKERS TO STAGE WALK OUTS AT WALMART STORES ON BLACK FRIDAY
Printer-friendly version By Nadin Abbott November 20, 2012 (San Diego)—Across the nation and in San Diego County, Walmart workers are poised to stage a walk out on Friday, traditionally the biggest shopping day of the year. This Thanksgiving, Walmart workers at more than 1,000 locations are seeking a seat at the bargaining table. “Unless Walmart takes immediate steps to improve basic working conditions, workers
HAWK WATCH HOLIDAY HARVEST FAIR ON NOV. 24
Printer-friendly versionNovember 20, 2012 (Warner Springs) – Hawk Watch Winery will be holding its Holiday Harvest Fair on November 24 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at 27054 Chihuahua Valley Rd., Warner Springs. Wingshadows Hacienda farms will be offering up homemade, home grown holiday fare including fresh jams, jellies, sauces, marinated feta cheeses, infused balsamic vinegars and fresh bread. Also
ITEX RESOLVES ISSUES WITH EAST COUNTY MAGAZINE, HELPS HURRICANE SANDY RELIEF EFFORTS
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery November 21, 2012 (San Diego’s East County) – I am pleased to report that ITEX has taken steps to resolve the conflicts that we previously reported regarding our account. In an email received today, the company has agreed to refund payments, cease billing for time after our cancellation notice, and provide a generous one-year extension for
CONTROLLED BURN WEDNESDAY IN MCCAIN VALLEY
Printer-friendly version November 20, 2012 (Jacumba)–Cal-Fire will conduct a burn tomorrow, November 21 in McCain Valley near the community of Jacumba. The burn will be approximately 35 acres and smoke will be visible off Interstate 8 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is a vegetation management burn that is done once a year, Cal-Fire’s Mike Mohler said. Printer-friendly version
WORKERS PICKET AT GROSSMONT HOSPITAL
Printer-friendly versionBy Nadin Abbott November 20, 2012 (La Mesa)—Some workers arrived after their shifts ended; others came from home to join a march yesterday afternoon outside Grossmont Hospital. All were determined to draw public attention to their efforts to gain better working conditions and compensation. United Healthcare Employees, affiliated with the AFL-CIO,continues contract negotiations for workers contracted by Sharp Healthcare through
BEST VIDEOS IN EAST COUNTY: BOBCATS IN EL MONTE VALLEY
Printer-friendly versionBy Billy Ortiz View video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0EPuSgKJOY November 20, 2012 (Lakeside) –Early in the morning on November 15 in El Monte Valley, I was driving slowly like always, hoping to see a cat. Today was my day–I spotted one close to the road, followed it up the mountain a bit and discovered that there was more than one. Much to
WIND-DRIVE FIRE IN BARRETT JUNCTION
Printer-friendly versionEast County Wildfire & Emergency Alerts Update December 11, 2024 — The fire is 70% contained at 38 acres. All evacuation notices have been lifted, per Cal Fire. Update 12:57 p.m.- All evacuation orders have been lifted, per Genasys. The fire is 10% contained. Update 12:15 p.m. An Evacuation Order has been issued for Zone SDC-2605 and an Evacuation Warning
BOMB THREAT AT HARRAH’S IN VALLEY CENTER PROVES HOAX
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service File photo by Miriam Raftery December 10, 2024 (Valley Center) — A bomb threat from an anonymous caller yesterday morning prompted a safety sweep at Harrah’s Resort Southern California on the Rincon tribe’s reservation in Valley Center. Resort staff found a backpack in an unauthorized area. After clearing that portion of the facility, a joint
CAL COAST CARES FOUNDATION AWARDS GRANTS TO LOCAL EDUCATORS FOR INNOVATIVE CLASSROOM PROJECTS
Printer-friendly versionSource: Cal Coast Cares Foundation December 9, 2024 (San Diego) – The Cal Coast Cares Foundation has awarded $75,000 in grants to local educators to support innovative STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Math) projects in San Diego and Riverside counties. This year’s awards will support 66 projects at local schools including 40 at Title I schools and six
SDG&E SHUTS OFF POWER DUE TO FIRE DANGER; MORE COMMUNITIES FACE POTENTIAL OUTAGES INCLUDING MOST OF EAST COUNTY
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery, East County Wildfire & Emergency Alerts December 9, 2024 (San Diego’s East County) – With a red flag warning in effect from the National Weather Service due to high fire danger today through Friday, SDG&E has begun public safety power shutoffs affecting 8,949 customers in Alpine, Boulevard, Campo, Descanso, Jacumba and Jamul. There are also unplanned
COUSIN OF ECM PHOTOGRAPHER MAULED BY PACK OF PIT BULL DOGS; FUNDS NEEDED TO HELP PAY MEDICAL BILLS
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery December 9, 2024 (San Diego) – A 15-year-old San Marcos girl is fighting for her life after suffering serious injuries. After running away from a treatment facility in North County, she was found in Mendocino “on the side of a highway, barely alive, some 600 miles away. Marielynn Watson was the victim of a horrific
READER’S EDITORIAL: JIM MILLER’S COMMENTS DEMAND ACCOUNTABILITY—OUR SCHOOL BOARD MUST ACT
Printer-friendly version By Tom Varallo, Commander, U.S. Navy (retired) Photo, left: CVUSD trustee Jim MIller December 9, 2024 (El Cajon) — As a citizen and former Special Education Local Planning Area (SELPA) Representative in the Cajon Valley Union School District, I am stunned by the recent comments made by Jim Miller, the current President of our School Board, on his
PASSAGES: JIM WIEBOLDT, SHERIFF’S DEPUTY AND LA MESA CIVIC LEADER, 1957-2024
Printer-friendly versionCelebration of Life to be held December 28 in La Mesa By Ben Perez Photo of Jim Wieboldt and his pug, Frank The Felon, courtesy Amanda Allsberry December 12, 2024 (La Mesa) — A respected deputy in the San Diego County Sheriff’s Crime Prevention Unit for more than a dozen years, James “Jim” Warren Wieboldt was much more than
CITIZENS OVERSIGHT TO AUDIT “SPLIT TICKET” BALLOTS IN SWING STATES
Printer-friendly version Audits to focus on “split ticket” swing states where Trump won while down-ballot Republicans lost; donations sought to support effort Hear our interview with Ray Lutz, originally aired on KNSJ Radio, on his election audit efforts and potential consequences File photo: Ray Lutz, founder of Citizens Oversight Projects December 8, 2024 (El Cajon) — Citizens Oversight, a nonprofit
COUNTY PROVIDES REFURBISHED LAPTOPS TO FOSTER YOUTH
Printer-friendly version By Anita Lightfoot, County of San Diego Communications Office Video by Suzanne Bartole December 7, 2024 (San Diego) – Christmas arrived a little early on December 7 for some of the region’s foster youth and foster families. An annual pre-holiday laptop giveaway was held this morning by the County of San Diego and the Futures Foundation.
UNIONS BRING HOLIDAY CHEER TO OVER 500 WORKING FAMILIES IN NEED AT ANNUAL FOOD & TOY DRIVE
Printer-friendly versionSan Diego & Imperial Counties Labor Council Rallies Community Solidarity to Support Working Families Struggling to Make Ends Meet, Including Striking Workers East County News Service December 7, 2024 (San Diego) — Today, more than 350 San Diego County families received a holiday meal and toys at the United Labor Center in San Diego, thanks to the generosity of
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