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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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ELECTION WRAP-UP: TWO CLOSE RACES RESOLVED AS BILBRAY, DANON CONCEDE DEFEAT; SEVERAL EAST COUNTY RACES REMAIN TIGHT
Printer-friendly version By Nadin Abbott As the vote counting countinues, the margins in two hotly contested East County races have narrowed, while just three votes separate candidates in another local race. Two high profile contests, however, are now resolved. The 52nd Congressional District race between Scott Peters (D) and Brian Bilbray (R) is over. Congressman Blbray conceded the race to Port Commissioner,
ECM WORLD WATCH: GLOBAL AND NATIONAL NEWS
Printer-friendly versionNovember 20, 2012 — (San Diego’s East County) – ECM World Watch helps you be an informed citizen about important issues globally and nationally. As part of our commitment to reflecting all voices and views, we include links to a wide variety of news sources representing a broad spectrum of political, religious, and social views. Top world and U.S. headlines include: U.S.
GET JOLLY AT THE HAWK WATCH CHRISTMAS PARTY DEC. 22
Printer-friendly versionNovember 20, 2012 (Warner Springs) — Hawk Watch Winery is holding its 3rd annual Christmas party on Dec. 22 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at 27054 Chihuahua Valley Rd., Warner Springs. The party is free and open to everyone. Enjoy the solo saxophone of Jason Weber while sampling some amazing homemade holiday desserts among the twinkling Christmas lights
EAST COUNTY ROUNDUP: TOP LOCAL AND STATE NEWS
Printer-friendly versionNovember 20, 2012 — (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 top “Roundup” headlines include: STATE California’s deficit shrinks to $1.9 billion (San Francisco Chronicle) California job growth drops jobless rate to 10.1% (Sacramento Bee) Proposed wind farm near Joshua Tree National Monument cancelled (Rewire) California moves
RECYCLE THANKSGIVING TURKEY FAT, OIL AND GREASE AT EDCO BUYBACK CENTERS
Printer-friendly versionNovember 20, 2012 (San Diego’s East County)–With Thanksgiving here, a thought to consider is what to do with kitchen fat, oil and grease (FOG) that’s left over from all that cooking or after deep frying a turkey. For interested residents, EDCO has a free, safe and more environmentally friendly option for disposing of household FOG. Residents are asked to
FROM THE CHIEF’S CORNER: THANKSGIVING COOKING SAFETY TIPS
Printer-friendly versionBy Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna Thanksgiving Cooking Safety Tips! November 20, 2012 (San Diego)–Thanksgiving signifies the beginning of the Holiday Season and many of us will be spending more time in the kitchen preparing for the Holidays according Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna. Thanksgiving Day is the leading day for home cooking fires, with three times as many occurring on
LEMON GROVE BARBER SHOP DAMAGED BY FIRE
Printer-friendly versionNovember 20, 2012 (Lemon Grove)—Shortly before midnight on November 18, a structure fire occurred at a barber shop at 7435 Broadway in Lemon Grove. Flames and smoke severely damaged the shop. Sheriff’s Bomb and Arson investigators responded to the scene and are handling the investigation to determine the cause of the blaze. Printer-friendly version
POMEGRANATE DAYS AT OASIS CAMEL DAIRY ON NOV. 24 & 25
Printer-friendly version November 20, 2012 (Ramona) – Oasis Camel Dairy hosts its 3rd Annual Pomegranate Days on November 24 and 25 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. each day. This holiday tradition includes feeding pomegranates to the camels, a special performance of the performing bird show and a behind the scenes tour of the dairy.Camel rides will also be available,
GRAND OPENING OF VIEJAS ICE RINK AND HOLIDAY SHOPPING KICKS OFF AT VIEJAS OUTLETS
Printer-friendly versionStores open at midnight on Thanksgiving for an early start to “Black Friday” shopping specials by Ariele Johannson November 17, 2012 (Alpine) –Viejas Ice Rink formally opened its fifth season yesterday along with specific extended holiday hours at Viejas Outlet Center. Now, when shopping, visitors are treated to views of excited skaters making their way around the cool, white
WINTER WELLNESS REMEDIES WORKSHOP IN ALPINE
Printer-friendly versionNovember 20, 2012 (Alpine) – Myra Thompson Bull, L.Ac., will present a workshop on Saturday, December 1. Learn how to make winter wellness remedies in your own kitchen from easily available ingredients—just in time for cold and flu season. Enjoy a morning of delightful scents and wise recipes to ward off winter ailments. This hands-on workshop will be followed
MAN ARRESTED AFTER THREATENING OFFICERS AT GROSSMONT CENTER
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery November 30, 2024 (La Mesa) — A man who reportedly threatened police officers and security officers was arrested this afternoon at Grossmont Center. According to La Mesa Police Lieutenant Matt Conlon, police were summoned after the suspect caused a commotion in the food court and other stores, also threatening security officers. When La Mesa Police officers
EL CAJON POLICE RESPOND TO VANDALISM OF BUS
Printer-friendly versionBy Robert Gehr November 30, 2024 (El Cajon) – A man was taken into custody for smashing windows on an MTS bus on November 26 around 6:30 a.m. He was transported by American Medical Response to a hospital. It took multiple police officers to restrain the man, who eventually had what appeared to be a spit mask or possible head protection device put on. Broken glass and
EL CAJON POLICE INVESTIGATE STABBING DEATH
Printer-friendly version East County News Service November 28, 2024 (El Cajon) – A 28=year-old El Cajon man has died of injuries sustained in a stabbing that occurred on November 28. El Cajon Police officers responded to the scene in the 500 block of North Mollison around 6 p.m.and found the victim with a life-threatening stab wound. Paramedics from Heartland Fire
AZTECS VOLLEYBALL OUSTED AT MW TOURNEY IN SEMIFINAL LOSS TO COLORADO STATE
Printer-friendly versionSource: SDSU NCAA Photos/MW November 30, 2024 (San Diego) –The fifth-seeded San Diego State volleyball team saw its run at the 2024 Credit Union 1 Mountain West Championship come to a disappointing conclusion Friday after dropping a hard-fought 3-1 decision to top-seeded Colorado State in a semifinal showdown at Cox Pavilion. With the loss, the Aztecs drop to 20-10
PHOTOS OF THE WEEK: A BIPARTISAN BIRTHDAY BASH FOR COUNCILMAN KENDRICK
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery November 30, 2024 (El Cajon)–El Cajon Councilman Gary Kendrick celebrated his 70th birthday on October 26 with a poolside party at his home. The guest list read like a who’s who of East County, with bipartisan comunity leaders turning out to honor the long-serving East County Councilmember. Current or former
SAN DIEGO BLOOD BANK HOSTS BLOOD DRIVES ACROSS EAST COUNTY IN DECEMBER
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service November 26, 2024 (San Diego’s East County) – This holiday season, you can give the gift of life. The San Diego Blood Bank is hosting a series of blood drives across East County between December 18 and December 24 in locations including Spring Valley, La Mesa, El Cajon, Lakeside, Alpine and Ramona. Below are
AHEAD OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON, ATTORNEY GENERAL BONTA WARNS CONSUMERS OF SHOPPING SCAMS AND FRAUD
Printer-friendly versionSource: Office of the Attorney General November 30, 2024 (Oakland) – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today urged shoppers to be on the lookout for common scams this holiday season and offered tips on how to shop safely. As Black Friday and Cyber Monday quickly approach, Californians should stay alert and take action to protect themselves and their loved ones from purchases that can cause
PRESIDENTS BIDEN AND MACRON ANNOUNCE CEASEFIRE AGREEMENT BETWEEN ISRAEL AND LEBANON
Printer-friendly versionBiden hopes to next achieve a cease-fire in Gaza before his term ends, with an agreement for a Palestinian state and security for Israel By Miriam Raftery Photo, left: Hezbollah fighters in Southern Lebanon in 2023, via Tasnim News Service November 28, 2024 (Washington D.C.) – In a historic accord, on Tuesday, U.S. President Joe Biden and President Emmanuel
PHOTOS OF THE WEEK: EAST COUNTY MAGAZINE’S ROARING ‘20s PARTY CELEBRATED JAZZ AGE IN LA MESA
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery November 28, 2024 (La Mesa) – Thanks to all of you who turned out in style at our Roaring ‘20s party on November 17 at Wineworks in La Mesa. We appreciate your support, which is vital to sustain our independent news reporting as well as our wildfire and emergency alerts. The event recreated the era
SAN DIEGO’S JEWISH COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM GRADUATES AIM TO HELP HATE CRIME VICTIMS
Printer-friendly versionTeam Funded by Statewide “Stop the Hate” Program Supports Those Impacted by Antisemitism By Miriam Raftery November 28,2024 (San Diego) – The inaugural cohort of San Diego’s Jewish Community Emergency Response Team (JCERT) is now prepared to respond in the aftermath of a sharp rise in local antisemitic incidents. Team members aim to help strengthen individual recovery and community
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