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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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ACTIVE EAGLE NEST REMOVED TO MAKE WAY FOR WIND FARM
Printer-friendly version Similar fate could await eagles in path of Iberdrola’s Tule Wind project in East County By Miriam Raftery January 20, 2013 (San Diego’s East County) – Wildlife protection groups and residents have reacted in horror to the removal of an active bald eagle nest by a wind developer in Canada, an event documented on video January 5,
SUPERVISORS WEIGH PLAN TO ADDRESS BORREGO WATER SHORTAGE
Printer-friendly versionBy Janis Mork January 11, 2013 (San Diego)- On January 9, San Diego Supervisors unanimously agreed to direct the chief administrative officer to work with Borrego Water District to design a plan to address long-term sustainability of groundwater in the Borrego Valley and to report back with potential recommendations. The ordinance states that “groundwater is being pumped at rates that
COUNCILMEMBERS GASTIL & VASQUEZ REPRESENT LEMON GROVE AT THE 33RD ANNUAL MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. PARADE
Printer-friendly version January 21, 2013 (Lemon Grove) — City Council Members George Gastil and Racquel Vasquez represented Lemon Grove at the 33rd Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade, honoring the late civil rights activist. Thousands of spectators lined the parade route on Harbor Drive, from the County Administration Building to the Midway Museum, to see more than 60 community groups, marching bands,
SAN DIEGO UNIFIED SCHOOL BOARD TO CONSIDER RESOLUTION JAN. 22 TO OPPOSE RESTARTING OF SAN ONOFRE NUCLEAR REACTOR
Printer-friendly versionUpdate January 23: The board passed this resolution, joining several Coastal City Councils in calling for an adjudicated license amendment hearing by the NRC January 21, 2013 (San Diego) – San Diego Unified School District Board Vice President, Kevin Beiser and Board Member Richard Barrera are introducing a Resolution (Agenda Item H.1) similar to that passed by the Del
CALIFORNIA SENATORS AND SAN DIEGO CONGRESSIONAL MEMBERS WEIGH IN ON GUN VIOLENCE PROPOSALS
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery January 20,2013 (San Diego)—Both of California’s U.S. Senators are strongly supporting actions to restrict assault weapons and protect the public from mass shootings, though members of San Diego’s Congressional delegation are divided in their views toward President Barack Obama’s plan for reducing gun violence. California Senator Dianne Feinstein (D) has confirmed she intends to
PRESIDENT SIGNS BILL TO STUDY VETERANS EXPOSED TO BURN PITS
Printer-friendly version January 21, 2013 (Washington D.C.) – President Barack Obama has signed into aw S. 3302, federal legislation requiring the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to create a registry for military service members who lived and worked near burn pits in Afghanistan, Iraq and other locations. “I am encouraged by this new development; however, we can do more,”
PRESIDENT OBAMA SWORN IN FOR SECOND TERM
Printer-friendly version January 21, 2013 (Washington D.C.) — “America’s possibilities are limitless,” President Barack Obama said in his inaugural address, “for we possess all the qualities that this world without boundaries demands: youth and drive; diversity and openness; an endless capacity for risk and a gift for reinvention. My fellow Americans, we are made for this moment, and we will seize it
MASKED MEN ROB VICTIM AT GUNPOINT IN COLLEGE AREA
Printer-friendly versionDetailed descriptions of suspects and vehicles including partial license plate January 20, 2013 (San Diego) – San Diego State University Police have issued a crime alert to warn students of an armed robbery that occurred at 6:30 p.m. tonight in the 5400 block of 55th Street. According to campus police, the victim was approached by six suspects armed with
BORDER PATROL BRIEFS RESIDENTS ON THREATS TO EAST COUNTY
Printer-friendly versionBy Nadin Abbott January 17, 2013 (Alpine) — The United States Border Patrol came to Alpine to speak with residents about progress made in securing the border and to hear residents’ concerns. More forums are planned. Paul Beeson, Chief Patrol Agent in the San Diego Region, said the sector comprises 60 miles of border, from the ocean
AWEA CONFERENCE ADDRESSES WIND SITING ISSUES IN THE WEST
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery Photo by Jim Pelley (red-tailed hawk at Ocotillo Wind Energy Facility) January 20, 2013 (San Diego) – Wind power is now the second largest contributor to “green” energy generation in California, with 75,000 Gigawatts produced to date. California is on track to meet its ambitious target for a 33% renewable portfolio by 2020, according
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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