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Villa Musica expanding to East County for 20th anniversary
Printer-friendly version East County News Service April 22, 2026 (El Cajon) — For two decades, the halls of Villa Musica’s Sorrento Valley headquarters have been alive with a specific kind of beautiful chaos — the steady thumps on the drum, soaring scales of soprano singers and the first notes of
Senior resource fair coming to Grossmont Healthcare District on April 23
Printer-friendly version East County News Service April 20, 2026 (La Mesa) — Health advocates from across San Diego County will provide critical resources through the upcoming “Spring into Healthy Living 2026: Senior Conference & Resource Fair” on Thursday, April 23 at Grossmont Healthcare District headquarters. Hosted by the San Diego
News Issues
Villa Musica expanding to East County for 20th anniversary
Printer-friendly version East County News Service April 22, 2026 (El Cajon) — For two decades, the halls of Villa Musica’s Sorrento Valley headquarters have been alive with a specific kind of beautiful chaos — the steady thumps on the drum, soaring scales of soprano singers and the first notes of
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
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
Villa Musica expanding to East County for 20th anniversary
Printer-friendly version East County News Service April 22, 2026 (El Cajon) — For two decades, the halls of Villa Musica’s Sorrento Valley headquarters have been alive with a specific kind of beautiful chaos — the steady thumps on the drum, soaring scales of soprano singers and the first notes of
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
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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
East County-based physician Charles Hamori honored by American College of Physicians
Printer-friendly version By Karen Pearlman April 21, 2026 (La Mesa) — When he was a teenager growing up in Muncie, Indiana, Charles Hamori performed his first successful medical diagnosis — on himself. Hamori was 14 when he correctly identified his own appendicitis, and it was at that moment (or soon
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
Features
Villa Musica expanding to East County for 20th anniversary
Printer-friendly version East County News Service April 22, 2026 (El Cajon) — For two decades, the halls of Villa Musica’s Sorrento Valley headquarters have been alive with a specific kind of beautiful chaos — the steady thumps on the drum, soaring scales of soprano singers and the first notes of
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
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MEDIA WATCH – PRESIDENTIAL DEBATES: HOW TO SEPARATE SPIN FROM FACTS
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery October 1, 2008 (San Diego’s East County) –Sorting out truth from fiction in political races is challenging. If you didn’t watch the first presidential debate, for example, you might get a radically different perspective on how the candidates fared if you’re listening to a right-wing or left-wing media commentator—or the campaigns themselves. (If you missed it,
EDITORIAL – FOLLOW THE MONEY
Printer-friendly versionWho would spend $14,300 to win a little rural election? Big dollars can drown out the voices of Campo community members By Billie Jo Jannen When was the last time you donated $2,000 to control the selection of members for an advisory body in a tiny little rural town? This may hardly seem worthwhile to you and I, but
EAST COUNTY EATER – MEDITERRANEO BISTRO BAR & GRILL: A DELIGHTFUL FIND IN ALPINE
Printer-friendly versionMediterraneo Bistro Bar & Grill 1347 Tavern Road, Alpine 91901 (619)445-9902. October 1, 2008 (ALPINE) – Dining at the Mediterraneo Bistro Bar & Grill, one can almost imagine oneself savoring a meal near the Mediterranean Sea. Perched on a hilltop with distant ocean views visible through a screen of trees in rural Alpine, this eatery has the feel of
LOCAL RESIDENTS JOIN NATIONAL PROTEST OF WALL STREET BAIL-OUT BILL
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery September 26, 2008 (El Cajon) – East County residents angered by the Bush administration’s proposed $700 billion bail-out bill for Wall Street financial firms took to the streets yesterday as part of a national protest action organized by True Majority. Thousands protested across the nation (photo: New York protest, taken by Jeremy Scahill.) “Many people in
FDA ALERT: DEADLY TOXIN FOUND IN COFFEE & TEA; CANDY & INFANT FORMULA MAY ALSO BE TAINTED
Printer-friendly version September 25, 2008 (SAN DIEGO) – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a consumer alert today warning that numerous products have been found to be contaminated with melamine – the same deadly toxin that killed thousands of cats and dogs in contaminated pet food last year. The FDA found that seven Mr. Brown instant coffee and milk
PENDLETON FIRE CHARS 400 ACRES
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery Capt. Nick Schuler, CAL-FIRE September 25, 2008 5:00 p.m. CAMP PENDLETON – More than 400 acres have burned at Camp Pendleton in a brush fire that remains active this evening. East County Magazine was the first local media to post news online of the fire, which began around 12:30 p.m. today The blaze began near Roblar
RECIPES OF THE MONTH
Printer-friendly versionLavender Raspberry Oat Muffins and Lavender Avocados October 1, 2008 (Valley Center) – Lovely lavender blooms are good for more than sachets! Try these tempting recipes, compliments of The Lavender Fields in Valley Center. Printer-friendly version
EXTRAORDINARY TIMES, EXTRAORDINARY ART
Printer-friendly versionBy Jolene Crowley October 1, 2008 (SAN DIEGO) – Three local artists, Theresa Vandenberg Donche of Mt. Helix, Encinitas resident Reed Cardwell, and Igor Kautsenko of Fallbrook, will be displaying their latest work collectively entitled “Extraordinary Times, Extraordinary Art!” at 6 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 25, at 3911 Harney Street in Old Town. East County resident Vandenberg Donche was born
TAP INTO THE MAIN TAP TAVERN
Printer-friendly version Story and photos by Jolene Crowley Courtesy of Main Tap Tavern. Main Tap Tavern in El Cajon boasts 24 hand-blown glass tap handles created by local artist Dan McStocker. The rehabilitation and beautification of Main Street in El Cajon continues with the July opening of Main Tap Tavern. Currently owned and operated by the East County father
WINING AND DINING AT LA BELLA VIDA
Printer-friendly version Benefit for Community Projects By Miriam Raftery September 20, 2008 (RANCHO SAN DIEGO) – More than 200 people attended the La Bella Vida Wine and Food Fest on September 20th, hosted by the Rancho San Diego/Spring Valley Rotary Club in the Water Conservation Garden at Cuyamaca College. Patrons sampled fare from numerous East County wineries and restaurants, also
ARE YOU TOUGH ENOUGH TO WIN A MILLION BUCKS? TV’S “SURVIVOR” WILL HOLD AUDITIONS AT PAUMA CASINO DEC. 16
Printer-friendly version December 8, 2009 (Pauma) – Are you adventurous, in top physical and mental condition, and willing to live in a remote location for seven weeks without contact from the outside world? Can you outwit, outplay and outlast others to avoid being voted off the show? Can you handle living off the land, cut off from the outside world
GOOD MONEY: RETIREMENT PLANNING OPPORTUNITIES & CHANGES FOR 2009-2010
Printer-friendly versionGood Money: Your guide to financial planning & socially responsible investing RETIREMENT PLANNING OPPORTUNITIES & CHANGES for 2009-2010 By: Judith L. Seid, CFP ® President, Blue Summit Financial Group December 2009 (La Mesa) — Below is a brief discussion of some of the major opportunities available for you now and in 2010. A check-up with your tax professional, and/or financial
ASSEMBLYMAN ANDERSON HOSTS HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE TONIGHT IN EL CAJON
Printer-friendly version Protest planned outside over donation controversy December 8, 2009 – Assemblyman Joel Anderson (R-El Cajon) invites constituents to his annual open house from 6 to 8 p.m. tonight at his offices at 500 Fesler Street, Suite 201, in El Cajon. Guests will be offered hors d’hoeuvres and refreshments as well as an opportunity to meet their legislator and
SNOW IN MOUNTAINS: CHAINS REQUIRED
Printer-friendly version December 7, 2009 (San Diego’s East County) – Snow plows are working to clear roads in East County’s mountain areas. Chains are required on Sunrise Highway to Mount Laguna. Stormy weather has caused numerous accidents around the County. High winds have also led to man fallen trees, downed power lines and other hazards. For the latest on
STORM KILLS POWER FOR 36,000; SDG&E OFFERS TIPS FOR AVOIDING DAMAGE FROM POWER SURGES
Printer-friendly version December 7, 2009 (San Diego) – Today’s storm caused dozens of power outages throughout the County, leaving over 36,000 people without power temporarily according to SDG&E. The utility’s “emergency” line for reporting outages was so overloaded that a recording advised people to call back later. An SDG&E representative advises consumers to unplug TVs, computers and microwaves—not merely
CALIFORNIA WELCOME CENTER OPENS IN ALPINE
Printer-friendly version December 7, 2009 (Alpine) – San Diego East Visitors Bureau celebrated the grand opening last week of its new office in the Viejas Outlet Center in Alpine. The site is an official California Welcome Center, providing information for tourists on attractions in East County and the San Diego region. “This is the first California Welcome Center ever
NEED SANDBAGS? STOCK UP HERE:
Printer-friendly version CAL FIRE Crews throughout San Diego County are combatting flooding caused by today’s winter storm. Sandbags are available at the following locations: Valley Center Station 73 28205 North Lake Wohlford Road, Valley Center CAL FIRE Station 70 16971 Highway 76, Pauma Valley CAL FIRE Station 50 1587 Highway 78, Julian CAL FIRE Station 86,
FLASH FLOOD WATCH: POOMACHA BURN AREA MOST VULNERABLE
Printer-friendly version December 6, 2009 (San Diego) – The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for recently burned areas of Southern California and lists the 2007 Poomacha burn area among the most vulnerable locations. Heavy rains of one inch per hour are forecast, capable of producing debris flows in and below burn areas from noon Monday until
HIGH WIND WATCH ISSUED BY WEATHER SERVICE FOR OUR REGION; GALE FORCE GUSTS UP TO 65 MPH POSSIBLE MONDAY EVENING
Printer-friendly version December 6, 2009 (San Diego’s East County) — The National Weather Service has issued an urgent high wind watch for Monday and Monday night due to a strong winter storm. Strong gusty winds in mountains, valleys, coastal and desert areas will have potential to cause damage to trees and power lines. Gusts of over 55 mph will
ACLU SUES CITY OF SAN DIEGO FOR DESTROYING HOMELESS PEOPLE’S BELONGINGS INCLUDING PRESCRIPTION MEDICINES, BLANKETS AND PHOTOS OF LOVED ONES
Printer-friendly version Class Action Suit Alleges Policies Intended to “Harass Homeless People Into Going Away” December 5, 2009 (San Diego)–SAN DIEGO – In a series of aggressive raids in September and October, city workers escorted by police seized and summarily destroyed the possessions of homeless men and women. In a lawsuit filed December 2nd, the Dreher Law Firm and the
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