Thanks To Our Sponsors
Be a sponsor!
Breaking News
Explore What Matters
News Center
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
What East County Topic Matters Most to You?
Get East County Wildfire, Emergency Alerts
Latest Stories
Sponsorship Placement
EL CAJON ANTIQUE SHOW NOVEMBER 14TH
Printer-friendly versionNovember 11, 2012 (El Cajon) — The next antique show in El Cajon will be held on Wednesday, November 14. See great collectibles, including jewelry, photos, artwork, dolls, textiles, dishes, pottery, glassware and more! This event is held the 2nd Wednesday of every month at the Ronald Reagan Community Center located at 195 East Douglas Avenue, from 1:00 to 6:00
Holiday Coupons 2012
Printer-friendly version We’re making our list and checking it twice….finding you lots of great holiday coupons! Scroll down for some great bargains — and check back for more holiday deals as our busy elves add new coupons each week. If you would like to run a holiday coupon, e-mail ads@eastcountymagazine.org or call 619-698-7617. Happy holidays! click to print coupon click to print
PATTERN ENERGY SECURES FUNDING FOR COMPLETION OF OCOTILLO EXPRESS WIND PROJECT
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery November 10, 2012 (Ocotillo) – North American Development Bank has announced that it has approved a 20-year, $110 million construction loan for completion of Pattern Energy’s Ocotillo Express wind energy facility. The bank, which is capitalized by both the U.S. and Mexican governments, funds projects within 62 miles of the international border. SDG&E has signed a
ECM READERS COME THROUGH TO HELP SHOCKEY FIRE VICTIMS
Printer-friendly version Cooking items, sheets still needed November 10, 2012 (Jacumba/Boulevard) – Lorrie Ostrander, who has been coordinating efforts to help families who lost homes in the Shockey Fire, has sent the following letter thanking ECM readers for your generosity. While many needs have been met, some remain. Please read her letter below, and help if you can. Dear
BOOK REVIEW: LOST GIRLS OFFERS CHILLING AND RIVETING INSIGHTS INTO KING AND DUBOIS MURDERS
Printer-friendly versionLost Girls, by Caitlin Rother (Kensington Publishing Corp., New York, NY, 2012, 372 pages). Book Review by Dennis Moore November 10, 2012 (San Diego’s East County)–New York Times Bestselling author Caitlin Rother, a San Diego resident and journalist, has written a true-crime book that I am sure will resonate with all parents: Lost Girls. Pulitzer-nominated author Rother delivers an
A MAN AND HIS THREE MULES
Printer-friendly version Story, photos and video by Billy Ortiz Video clip Like the pioneers of old, he packs his mules…walking from town to town searching not for gold or silver or fame, but for the land that connects his three mules and himself. November 10, 2012 (Lakeside)–A lone drifter, age unknown, rides into Lakeside, California with
GROSSMONT-CUYAMACA COLLEGE DISTRICT LEADERS HAIL PASSAGE OF PROP V
Printer-friendly versionBy Bill Weaver November 10, 2012 (San Diego’s East County)—Leaders in the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College are speaking out to thank voters for passing Prop V, a $398 million bond measure that passed by about 56.5 percent. “We’re pleased that voters understand the critical facilities and technology upgrades needed to better educate and train our students in today’s ultra-competitive world,”
SAN DIEGO JEWISH ACADEMY HOLDS “MOTHER OF ALL GARAGE SALES” NOV. 11 TO BENEFIT HURRICANE SANDY VICTIMS
Printer-friendly versionSchool previously raised over 30 tons of supplies for Katrina victims and, over $100,000 worth of medical supplies for those affected by the Haiti earthquake November 11, 2012 (San Diego)– “People really want to help the victims of Hurricane Sandy however they can,” said Scott Brown, former San Diego Jewish Academy (SDJA) parent and manager of The Mother of
ON THE SILVER SCREEN: LICENSE TO THRILL (SKYFALL)
Printer-friendly versionBy Brian Lafferty November 9, 2012 (San Diego) – Practically every commercial I saw for Skyfall emphasized the action sequences. Not surprising, since studios throw all the best parts in the trailers and ads. Here’s some irony for you: MGM and Columbia only thought they included the best parts. Audiences who watch the official trailer and the TV spots
EARTHTALK® BURROWING OWL CONSERVATION NETWORK
Printer-friendly versionE – The Environmental Magazine Written and edited by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss Dear EarthTalk: What is the Burrowing Owl Conservation Network and why is it so important to put so much effort into saving one species? — Ginny Bateman, Portland, OR November 9, 2012 (California) — Western burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia) are tiny, long-legged members
HEAD-ON COLLISION IN LAKESIDE INJURES 3
Printer-friendly version February 6, 2010 (Lakeside) – A high-speed, head-on traffic collision with entrapment on a rain-slicked road brought a multi-agency response to Lake Jennings Park Road in Lakeside. Crews used hydraulic rescue tools to extricate the front seat passenger of one vehicle. Firefighter/paramedics provided advanced life support care and transported a total of three patients to the trauma
COUNCILMEMBER EMERALD TACKLES COLLEGE AVE TRAFFIC
Printer-friendly version GREEN LIGHT! TWO NEW TRAFFIC SIGNALS TO BE INSTALLED February 6, 2010 (San Diego)–San Diego City Councilmember Marti Emerald announces an important step in securing funds for the installation of two traffic lights on College Avenue, one at Arosa Street and one at Adams Avenue. The Crossroads Redevelopment Project Area Committee has voted to recommend funding for the lights. The Public Safety and Neighborhood Services Committee,
EL CAJON POLICE SEEK SUSPECT WHO SHOT MAN AT LOCAL INN
Printer-friendly version February 6, 2010 (El Cajon) – Police are seeking a suspect who is believed to have shot and wounded a man at the Ha’Penny Inn, 1529 East Main Street in El Cajon, early this morning. The suspect is described as a black male adult, clean shaven with neck-length braided hair. The shooter is in his early 20s,
BOYS HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL: GROSSMONT NOT SATISFIED WITH 47-36 WIN AT STEELE CANYON
Printer-friendly version by Christopher Mohr February 7, 2010 (Rancho San Diego) – Whoever coined the phrase, ‘a win is a win’, never met the Grossmont Foothillers’ basketball team. If you knew nothing about the outcome of Friday night’s game and observed the Grossmont players’ demeanor afterwards, you would have been surprised to find out that they won. Although it’s a
SINGING VALENTINES! LOCAL WOMEN’S BARBERSHOP CHORUS BRINGS ROMANCE TO EAST COUNTY
Printer-friendly version GROUP WILL SERENADE YOUR SWEETHEART FEB 12-14: LIVE OR ON THE PHONE! By Miriam Raftery February 6, 2010 (La Mesa) – Looking for an inspired way to say “I love you” to that special someone? California Note Catchers is offering singing valentines February 12, 13 and 14. For $40, the women’s a capella singing group will deliver two love songs, a
LEAGUE OF CONSERVATION VOTERS SEEKS NEW BOARD MEMBERS FROM EAST COUNTY
Printer-friendly version February 6, 2010 (San Diego’s East County) – The League of Conservation Voters’ San Diego chapter seeks new board members from the East County area. “Our goal is electing and monitoring public officials relative to their positions on environmental issues,” says Nikki Symington, board member of the nonpartisan organization. “We need more representation from the East
CRASH IN LAKESIDE BLOCKS CENTER LANES ON I-8
Printer-friendly versionFebruary 6, 2010 (Lakeside) 9:25 a.m. — Center lanes remain blocked on I-8 westbound at Lake Jennings Road in Lakeside due to a vehicle accident. Emergency workers have now freed all people trapped in a vehicle and transported three patients to a hospital, according to Heartland Fire dispatch. Incident Page Network reports that one of those trapped was a baby.
TOYOTA ORDERS FIX FOR 2.3 MILLION RECALLED VEHICLES
Printer-friendly version February 6, 2010 (San Diego) – Toyota announced it has identified the cause of a sticking accelerator problem believed to have caused the death of CHP officer Mark Saylor and three of his family members in a fiery Santee crash. The manufacturer has ordered recall of 2.3 million Toyotas. This weekend, Toyota began sending letters to owners
CHICKENPOX OUTBREAK AT LAKESIDE SCHOOL
Printer-friendly version February 5, 2010 (Lakeside) — The San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) reports that six students at Xara Garden School, a K-2 charter school sponsored by the Lakeside Union School District, have been diagnosed with chickenpox (varicella). None of the six students were vaccinated against chickenpox. “Chickenpox is a preventable disease. We encourage parents
FIRE DESTROYS RAMONA BUILDING
Printer-friendly version February 5, 2010 (Ramona)–Cal Fire and the Ramona Fire Department received a report of a structure fire in the 15000 block of Rosemont Lane in Ramona shortly after 7:30 this evening. When firefighters arrived, the 1500 square foot home was fully engulfed in flames. It took approximately 45 minutes to extinguish the fire. Firefighters will remain at
Get Wildfire Alerts & Wildfire Emergency News
Partner To ECM
Our Engaged Audience
5 to 10 million hits
per month!
5 to 10 million hits
per month!
A quarter million visits
each month
Most widely read news site dedicated to
San Diego’s East County
Winner of over 150
journalism awards
“Sponsoring East County Magazine is a great way to reach our loyal and engaged readers, who value organizations and businesses that support nonprofit, independent news in the public interest and wildfire/emergency alerts that keep people safe and informed. Sponsors can choose to underwrite our community news site, support a favorite section or a new special section, underwrite an event, or sponsor our wildfire and emergency alerts.”
— Miriam Raftery, Founder of East County Magazine
Community Links
Thanks To Our Major Sponsors
📬 Subscribe to ECM – 100% Free, Trusted by East County Since 2008
- Emergency alerts
- Breaking news
- No spam ever