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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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THE HUMAN RIGHTS WATCH FILM FESTIVAL JANUARY 24-28
Printer-friendly version January 22, 2013 (San Diego) – The Museum of Photographic Arts, in community partnership with Survivors of Torture, International, The IRC, and other community partners is hosting the third year of the Human Rights Watch Film Festival in San Diego from Jan. 22 – 28 at 1649 El Prado, San Diego. This film event has been described
LOOKING FOR FOREVER HOMES- SHELTER DOGS TO DREAM DOGS
Printer-friendly version January 22, 2013 (Alpine) — Dream Dogs has a 4 month-old, cuddly Maltipoo female puppy (pictured at left). We also have a 1.5 year-old, 6 lb. Yorkie/Cairn Terrier that would make a wonderful friend to a loving owner (see picture on website and Facebook). Please email me your information, including the lifestyle you can give to any
HEATING, VENTILATION AND AIR CONDITIONING MYTHS VS. FACTS
Printer-friendly version By Colin Martodam, General Manager of ARS (www.arssandiego.com) January 22, 2013 (San Diego County) — If you’ve been told that closing air vents in unused rooms in your home will allow faster or more concentrated airflow into other rooms, or that leaving your ceiling fan on while you’re not home will help cool the house faster, you’ve fallen victim
LEASH YOUR FITNESS ANNOUNCES NEW WORKOUT SERIES FOR OWNERS AND THEIR DOGS
Printer-friendly versionJanuary 22, 2013 (San Diego’s East County) – Leash Your Fitness, announces a six-week series of fitness challenges to help you get in shape after the holidays—while getting a workout for your dog, too. “Our first three challenges were very successful for all of the participants,” said founder Dawn Celapino, whose motto is “Life is short! Exercise with your
ARE STUDENTS UNPREPARED FOR COLLEGE?
Printer-friendly version January 22, 2012 (San Diego)–After finding recent studies showing that one in four freshmen in the U.S. do not complete their first year of college, despite giving college a try, a team at CollegeAtHome.com decided to create an infographic that would show some of the reasons why. Is it possible that high school students simply do not
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS UNANIMOUSLY APPROVES BORREGO GROUNDWATER ORDINANCE AND AGREEMENT ON GROUNDWATER OVERDRAFT
Printer-friendly versionBoard directs action to plan long-term for the ground water’s sustainability By Janis Mork January 21, 2013 (San Diego)- At the January 9th meeting of the San Diego Board of Supervisors, all five Supervisors voted to direct the chief administrative officer to work with Borrego Water District to design a plan to address the long-term sustainability of groundwater in
JANUARY AND FEBRUARY PROGRAMS FOR SENIORS ANNOUNCED BY SHARP GROSSMONT
Printer-friendly versionJanuary 22, 2013 (La Mesa) — The Senior Resource Center at Sharp Grossmont Hospital in La Mesa offers free or low-cost educational programs and health screenings each month. The Senior Resource Center also provides information and assistance for health information and community resources. For more information, call 619-740-4214. For other programs, call 1-800-827-4277 or visit their web site at
EAST COUNTY WOMEN WIN TOP TWO ART AWARDS
Printer-friendly versionJanuary 22, 2013 (San Diego’s East County) – Joan McKasson and Joan Merrick were awarded first and second places respectively in the San Diego Watercolor Society’s January show “New Beginnings”. The juror, Carol Mansfield, complimented both paintings for their expert use of watercolor along with their strong colors and designs. Joan McKasson is a Signature Member of SDWS whose
FEDERAL JUDGE HEARS QUECHAN TRIBE’S CASE ON OCOTILLO WIND PROJECT HARM TO SACRED SITES
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery January 21, 2013 (San Diego) – On Friday, January 18, U.S. District Court Judge Gonzalo Curiel heard arguments in a lawsuit filed by the Quechan tribe of the Fort Yuma Indian Reservation against the U.S. Department of the Interior and Bureau of Land Management, as well as Pattern Energy and other defendants. The suit contends
FEDERAL JUDGE HEARS QUECHAN TRIBE’S CASE OVER OCOTILLO WIND PROJECT DAMAGE TO SACRED SITES
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery U.S. District Court Judge Gonzalo Curiel heard arguments in a lawsuit filed by the Quechan tribe of the Fort Yuma Indian Reservation against the U.S. Department of the Interior and Bureau of Land Management, among others. The suit contends that the federal government failed to protect Native American cultural resources, including sacred sites, when it allowed
WATER SMART GARDENING FESTIVAL NOV. 14: MORE BEAUTY WITH LESS WATER
Printer-friendly version Attendees eligible to win a free Home Landscape Re-design–$700 value! (RANCHO SAN DIEGO, CA)—Fall is here–San Diego’s second planting season. The Water Conservation Garden celebrates with an exposition of drought tolerant landscaping on Saturday, November 14, 2009, 9am-3pm, at the Water Smart Gardening Festival. Admission and parking are free. Plant vendors will offer a variety of drought
VACCINES ARRIVE FOR H1N1 FLU, CLINICS OPEN THIS WEEKEND
Printer-friendly version Pregnant women, children, healthcare workers and infants’ caregivers urged to get vaccinated October 24, 2009 (San Diego) – A new shipment of 102,000 doses of the H1N1 flu vaccine arrived in San Diego on Friday. Seven public health clinics will be open extended hours over the weekend from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to vaccinate high-risk individuals. The
SHERIFF LAUNCHES PROGRAM TO COMBAT DUI DEATHS & INJURIES
Printer-friendly version October 23, 2009 (San Diego) — William D. Gore, Sheriff, San Diego County, has announced that the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department (representing the cities of Vista, San Marcos, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Del Mar, Poway, Santee, Lemon Grove and Imperial Beach) is set to commence a year-long anti-DUI program aimed at preventing deaths and injuries on our roadways.
SUPERVISOR JACOB “WORRIED” OVER SHORTAGE OF SWINE FLU VACCINES
Printer-friendly version October 22, 2009 (San Diego) – “I’m worried,” Supervisor Dianne Jacob told East County Magazine when asked about H1N1 (swine flu) vaccinations. “These should have been here yesterday.” Jacob expressed concern over the fact that San Diego has only received 28,000 doses of the vaccine, yet the County has 12 million people. She added that she is
SPRING VALLEY MAN DIES AFTER FALL AT QUALCOMM STADIUM
Printer-friendly version October 22, 2009 (Spring Valley) – Walter Daniels, 66, has died following injuries sustained in a 30-foot fall from the pressbox at Qualcomm Stadium, where he worked, on October 19. Daniels, a Chargers staffer and long-time sports official, resided in Spring Valley with his wife. The Chargers have issued the following statement: “The San Diego Chargers’ family is
GROSSMONT COLLEGE FOUNDATION GALA SAT. OCT. 24: FUNDS HELP STUDENTS & EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Printer-friendly version October 22, 2009 (El Cajon) – In this era of budget cutbacks, community colleges are struggling to accommodate more students on less money. You can help by attending the Grosssmont College Foundation’s eight annual gala this Saturday, October 24th, at the Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino. The Foundation raises funds to support Grossmont College students and educational
HEROIN DEALER BUSTED IN LA MESA
Printer-friendly version October 21 (La Mesa) — On October 20, La Mesa Police Department’s Special Enforcement Detail (SED) arrested a man for possessing heroin for sale, growing marijuana, and possession of guns relating to narcotics. Mathew McKinney, 25 years old, was arrested after police received several tips from concerned citizens that there were possible narcotics sales occurring from the apartment complex at
CONTROLLING GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS OR LAND USE AUTHORITY…WHAT IS THE REAL POWER OF SB 375?
Printer-friendly version By E.A. Barrera "This legislation constitutes the most sweeping revision of land use policies since Governor Ronald Reagan signed the California Environmental Quality Act." –Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, September 30, 2008. "This fundamentally changes the way we think about growth…It does not reduce growth. I think growth is inevitable and a good thing. But it will allow California to
HATE GROUP’S PROTESTS BACKFIRE IN SAN DIEGO
Printer-friendly version October 21, 2009 (San Diego) – Members of the Westboro Baptist Church picketed outside local schools during the past week, bearing messages of hate directed towards Jews, gays, and the military. Designated a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center, Westboro has gained notoriety for indoctrinating children into a cult-like web of hate (photo, left, child displays
EAST COUNTY MAGAZINE NAMED BEST GENERAL INTEREST WEBSITE IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY, SWEEPS SAN DIEGO PRESS CLUB WITH 18 AWARDS
Printer-friendly version October 20, 2009 (San Diego’s East County) – East County Magazine took home 18 awards at tonight’s San Diego Press Club dinner, including some of the top honors in the region. Our publication was named best general interest website in San Diego County and second best news site (after the San Diego Union-Tribune). Five of our writers (E.A.
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