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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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MANHUNT IN EAST COUNTY
Printer-friendly versionDecember 7, 2012 (Alpine) — A manhunt for a suspected human smuggler with a long criminal record has failed to locate the suspect, ECM news partner 10 News reports. Martell Valencia-Cortez fled following a traffic stop near Viejas Casino this morning. Border Patrol offices tried to pull the vehicle over, but Valencia leaped out and fled on foot. An
TRASH FACILITY ON FIRE IN EL CAJON
Printer-friendly versionFirefighters removed 500 tons of trash to extinguish the blaze By Nadin Abbott and Miriam Raftery Photos by Billy Ortiz and Nadin Abbott; view video by Billy Ortiz December 7, 2012 (El Cajon) — A large fire is now under control at a Waste Management facility at 1001 West Bradley Avenue near Gillespie Field in El Cajon. “There are
A NUTTY STORY: SQUIRREL’S STASH SENDS THREE RAMONA RESIDENTS TO HOSPITAL WITH CO POISONING
Printer-friendly versionAcorn-clogged heater, CO detector created grave danger December 7, 2012 (Ramona)–Three people were taken by ambulance to UCSD to be treated for high levels of carbon monoxide yesterday. Fortunately, they were released later and are expected to recover. But their ordeal is a reminder of the importance of inspecting and maintaining furnaces, as well as having a working carbon
STONEY’S KIDS AND COTTONWOOD GOLF CLUB HOLD TOURNAMENT BENEFITING THE EAST COUNTY FOOD DRIVE DECEMBER 12
Printer-friendly version December 9, 2012 (El Cajon)–Where else can you have fun, and do great things for kids at the same time? Sign up for the December 12 golf tournament at Cottonwood Golf Club, and bring an unwrapped toy for East County Toy and Food Drive. For a fee of $49.00, the tournament includes: 11:00
LOCAL TOT’S PARTY HELPS HURRICANE SANDY VICTIMS
Printer-friendly version By Staci Torgensen December 7, 2012 (San Diego)–At the ripe age of two, Journey’s birthday party is making a difference in the lives of victims of Hurricane Sandy. This beautiful young girl is turning her second birthday party into an event to remember. Journey’s family has chosen to ECHOage her upcoming birthday party. Instead of receiving many smaller
SIXTH ANNUAL TREE OF HOPE CELEBRATION & CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL
Printer-friendly versionHilton San Diego Resort & Spa Brings Holiday Fun to Easter Seals & Local Children December 13, 2012, (San Diego)–The Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa hosted their 6th Annual Tree of Hope Celebration and Christmas Carnival for Easter Seals Southern California and San Diego County children and adults with disabilities on Saturday, December 8.The guests and their families
JOIN US FOR FEASTING AND MERRYMAKING! EAST COUNTY’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY IS DECEMBER 16
Printer-friendly versionVIP guests include Congresswoman Davis, Mayor Art Madrid and many more! This year’s festivities will take place on Sunday, December 16 from 2-6 p.m. Savor delicious foods prepared by Chef Patrick Dean and Grove Pastry Shop, enjoy wine tasting by La Serenissima and San Pasqual Winery as well as live jazz music by Chris Klich of Grossmont College Music
FORMER COUNCILWOMAN JILLIAN HANSON-COX SENTENCED TO 30 MONTHS, ORDERED TO PAY $4.8 MILLION IN RESTITUTION
Printer-friendly versionMoney spent on lavish personal expenditures as well as community causes By Miriam Raftery December 6, 2012 (El Cajon) – “What I did was so shameful, and I will have to live with what I did for the rest of my life,” former El Cajon Councilwoman Jillian Hanson-Cox stated tearfully at her sentencing hearing last Monday. Federal judge Michael
A BAROQUE CHRISTMAS CONCERT: DEC. 11 AND 12
Printer-friendly version December 6, 2012 (San Diego’s East County)—Grossmont College’s Symphony Orchestra and Master Chorale will present a Baroque Christmas Concert on December 11 and 12 in East County and San Diego. The performances will feature beloved music from the Baroque masters: Monteverdi, Vivaldi, Biber and Charpentier, as well as violin solos by Michael Dvoskin and Luay Yousif. On Tuesday,
NILE SISTERS FOUNDER ELIZABETH LOU WINS ELEANOR ROOSEVELT HUMAN RIGHTS AWARD 2012
Printer-friendly versionDecember 7, 2012 (San Diego) – Guests from more than 20 nations were on hand as Elizabeth Lou, founder and CEO of Nile Sisters in San Diego, received the prestigious Eleanor Roosvelt humanitarian award from the United Nations Association USA in San Diego. The award, presented at the Asmara Eritrean & Ethiopian Restaurant in San Diego in October, recognizes
County helps businesses prepare for federal enforcement actions
By Tracy DeFore , County of San Diego Communications Office Image credit: Shutterstock February 4, 2026 (San Diego) – Businesses and employees concerned about federal…
County helps businesses prepare for federal enforcement actions
Printer-friendly version By Tracy DeFore, County of San Diego Communications Office Image credit: Shutterstock February 4, 2026 (San Diego) – Businesses and employees concerned about federal immigration enforcement actions can learn about their rights through a new video training series. The three County videos on what to do before, during and after visits from federal authorities are designed to help keep workplaces safe and compliant. More
Calif. Attorney General asks for help to identify “unlawful” activity of ICE and Border Patrol
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service Photo: ICE and CBP agents shoot non-lethal weapons at protesters in Minneapolis; by Chad Davis cc by 4.0 February 4, 2026 (Sacramento) – California Attorney General Rob Bonta has set up a website for the public to submit reports, photos and/or videos as evidence of potentially unlawful activity in California by federal agents or personnel. This includes
County Supervisors to decide on amplified music for boutique wineries
Printer-friendly versionPhoto by Miriam Raftery By Karen Pearlman Feb. 4, 2026 (San Diego County) – For the winemakers of East County, the sound of progress has long been a quiet one. Under current San Diego County laws, the region’s smallest “boutique” wineries — the family-run operations that make up an important part of the local agriculture scene — have been
SDFC in first CONCACAF tilt with UNAM tonight
Photo courtesy SDFC East County News Service Feb. 3, 2026 (San Diego) – Before starting the regular Major League Soccer season later this month, tonight…
Deadlock with Iran: U.S. military threats escalate tensions amid rising violence
Iranian-Americans in San Diego march for peace after Iran kills thousands By Alexander J. Schorr February 2, 2026 (San Diego) — After thousands of protesters…
Deadlock with Iran: U.S. military threats escalate tensions amid rising violence
Printer-friendly versionIranian-Americans in San Diego march for peace after Iran kills thousands By Alexander J. Schorr February 2, 2026 (San Diego) — After thousands of protesters and others were killed in Iran, Iranian-Americans have taken to the streets across the United States. including here in San Diego to take a stand for freedom. Tensions have been rising between Iran and
First-Ever Spring Valley Changemakers Summit Feb. 19 set to connect community and inspire action
Printer-friendly versionSource: Spring Valley Community Alliance February 2, 2026 (Spring Valley) – The Spring Valley Community Alliance and Spring Valley Chamber of Commerce along with SEEDS partners invite residents and community members to the first-ever Spring Valley Changemakers Summit, a free community gathering designed to connect neighbors with local organizations and nonprofit partners, offering opportunities to learn about local projects, share
Lakeside school employee arrested for sexual abuse of minor
East County News Service January 28, 2026 (Lakeside) – Kent Cable, 55, an employee of the Lakeside Union School District in a non-teaching role, has…
First-Ever Spring Valley Changemakers Summit Feb. 19 set to connect community and inspire action
Source: Spring Valley Community Alliance February 2, 2026 (Spring Valley) – The Spring Valley Community Alliance and Spring Valley Chamber of Commerce along with SEEDS…
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