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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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Democrat Frances Motiwalla to Challenge Rep. Juan Vargas in CA-52 primary
By Paul Levikow March 7 , 2026 (San Diego) – Saying “we have to win or we will die trying,” Democratic community organizer Frances Yasmeen…
Health and Science Highlights
March 4, 2026 (San Diego’s East County) — Our Health and Science Highlights provide cutting edge news that could impact your health and our future….
Chaldean Bishop arrested while trying to leave the U.S.
By Miriam Raftery Photo by Miriam Raftery: Bishop Shaleta in May 2024 at opening of incubator business center for refugees and immigrants in El Cajon…
Nature Day on Mt. Helix March 14: Butterflies, plants galore and more
East County News Service March 6, 2026 (Mt. Helix) – You’re invited to celebrate Nature Day at the Mt. Helix Park, where Earth Day is…
SDSU hosts pow wow April 11
East County News Service March 6, 2026 (San Diego) — SDSU will host its 54th annual pow wow on Saturday, April 11 starting at 11…
ECM World Watch: national and global news
March 6, 2026 (San Diego) — As part of our commitment to reflect all voices and views, we include links to a variety of news…
East County Roundup: local and statewide news
March 6, 2026 (San Diego’s East County) — East County Roundup highlights top stories of interest to East County and San Diego’s inland regions, published…
Spring Into El Cajon on April 18 celebrates Arbor Day and arrival of spring
East County New Service Image by Satheesh Sankaran from Pixabay March 6, 2026 (El Cajon) – The City of El Cajon invites community members and…
Chaldean Bishop arrested while trying to leave the U.S.
By Miriam Raftery Photo by Miriam Raftery: Bishop Shaleta in May 2024 at opening of incubator business center for refugees and immigrants in El Cajon…
Nature Day on Mt. Helix March 14: Butterflies, plants galore and more
East County News Service March 6, 2026 (Mt. Helix) – You’re invited to celebrate Nature Day at the Mt. Helix Park, where Earth Day is…
FEINSTEIN JOINS 16 OTHER SENATORS TO PUSH FOR PUBLIC OPTION
Printer-friendly version 39% Rate Hike by Anthem-Blue Cross Persuaded CA Senator that Consumers need Choice of a Public Plan Updated February 19, 2010 (Washington D.C.) – Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-California) has joined with 16 other Senators to urge that Majority Leader Harry Reid pass a public option for health insurance using reconciliation, a parliamentary procedure that allows a simple
SALAS RUNS FOR STATE SENATE
Printer-friendly version February 18, 2010 (San Diego) – Assemblywoman Mary Salas (D-Chula Vista) has announced plans to run for the 40th State Senate seat. Senator Denise Ducheny (D-San Diego) will be stepping down due to term limits. Running on the campaign slogan, “a real Democrat,” Salas was honored as Legislator of the Year in 2009 by the San Diego County
BABY BRACELETS & PACIFIER CLIPS RECALLED FOR HIGH LEAD LEVELS
Printer-friendly version Products were sold in resale and consignment shops nationwide February 18, 2010 (Washington, D.C.) – The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with Allreds Design (doing business as Hidden Hollow Beads), has just announced a voluntary recall of Allreds Design baby bracelets and pacifier clips. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately. To see photos
WOMAN FOUND DEAD AT SOBER LIVING FACILITY IN SPRING VALLEY
Printer-friendly version February 17, 2010 (Spring Valley) Tina Marie Jordan, 51, was found dead in the apartment she shared with a boyfriend at a sober living facility at 10030 Juan Street in Spring Valley. On February 14, the apartment manager went to check on her after not seeing her all day. The manager, along with two residents, discovered her
LAKESIDE WOMAN KILLED BY CAR WHILE JOGGING; MEMORIAL ON SATURDAY
Printer-friendly version February 17, 2010 (Lakeside) – Amy Beringhaus, 35, of Lakeside was struck by a car and killed yesterday morning on Los Coches Road in El Cajon while jogging with her husband, Shaun, and their dog. According to authorities, she stepped off the sidewalk into an unmarked crossing area in the northbound land in front of an oncoming car.
UTILITY-BACKED BALLOT INITIATIVE DRAWS CRITICISM FROM LOCAL LEADERS
Printer-friendly version Should cities and counties be barred from starting up public power entitities to compete against utility giants such as SDG&E–and offer clean energy options to residents? Voters to decide. February 17, 2010 (San Diego) – A June ballot initiative seeks to change California’s constitution to make it harder for cities and counties to give residents alternatives to
PRISONER RELEASE 101: FEB. 22 FORUM ON INMATE RELEASE UNDER NEW LAW
Printer-friendly version February 17, 2010 (San Diego) – California is under federal court order to reduce the number of its prison inmates by 40,000. A new state law mandates that Calfironia slash its inmate population by 6,500 this year. To comply, in January San Diego County jails gave early release to approximately 260 inmates. Who are these prisoners? What
FALLBROOK MOM PLEADS GUILTY TO SOCIAL HOST ORDINANCE VIOLATION
Printer-friendly version Deborah Gibney Receives Probation, Fine February 17, 2010 — Fallbrook resident Deborah Gibney has pleaded guilty to violating the County of San Diego’s Social Host Ordinance. The guilty plea stemmed from an underage drinking party Gibney hosted in June of 2009. San Diego Sheriff’s Deputies were called to Fallbrook Hospital on the night of June 9, 2009. The
DID YOU FEEL THAT? EARTHQUAKES — AND WHAT TO DO WHEN ONE STRIKES
Printer-friendly version February 17, 2010 (San Diego’s East County) — Early last Sunday morning, a magnitude (M)4.5 earthquake along with subsequent aftershocks struck Baja California, Mexico. It was felt in East County and as far north as Oceanside. Although we experience these temblors often, it is beneficial to know what to do if we find ourselves inside a building while at work, enjoying a meal at a
SEARCH LAUNCHED FOR MISSING FAMILY
Printer-friendly version February 16, 2010 (Bonsall) – The San Diego Sheriff seeks public help to locate Joseph and Summer McStay and their two children. Last night, the Sheriff was asked by a relative member to conduct a check on the welfare of the family, who resided at 3473 Avocado Vista Lane in Bonsall. The family has not been seen
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