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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
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
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
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
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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DO WE NEED MORE TRAFFIC LANES ON ALPINE BOULEVARD?
Printer-friendly version By Tom Myers March 8, 2013 (Alpine)–This question will be addressed at the next ACPG Circulation Subcommittee, scheduled for 6:30 pm on March 14 at the Alpine Community Center. Bob Citrano, SD County Planner will be on hand to explain the roadway improvements recommended in a recent Supplemental Environmental Impact Report. San Diego County is seeking public comments
GUHSD ANNOUNCES NO TEACHER LAYOFFS FOR 2013-14 SCHOOL YEAR
Printer-friendly version March 8, 2013 (La Mesa)–The Grossmont Union High School District has announced that it will not bring any certificated teacher layoff notices to the Governing Board at this time. By law, school districts are required to send preliminary notices to certificated staff (teachers) by March 15 if they won’t be offered a contract for the next school
EARLY MORNING FIRE DAMAGES CONDO IN LA MESA
Printer-friendly version March 8, 2013 (La Mesa)–Shortly after 6:00 a.m. this morning, Heartland Fire & Rescue crews in La Mesa, with assistance from San Diego Fire, responded to reports of a structure fire in the 5700 block of Baltimore Drive. As crews arrived on scene, flames were seen coming from the roof area of a two-story condo unit at
MEET THE WINEMAKERS MARCH 16 AT SANTA YSABEL CASINO
Printer-friendly version March 8, 2013 (Santa Ysabel)–Savor local vintages and meet winemakers from our region at Santa Ysabel Casino’s “Meet the Winemakers” event on March 16 from 3-6 p.m. Participating vintners include J.Jenkins, Woof ‘N Rose, and Witch Creek wineries. The event costs $30 and includes gourmet appetizers, wine tasting from local vintners, $5 in slot machine play, and
SAN DIEGO NAMED FITTEST CITY IN AMERICA BY APARTMENT GUIDE
Printer-friendly version March 8, 2013 (San Diego) – March marks the beginning of spring (as well as spring break!) and National Nutrition Month. So Apartment Guide has issued its recommendations on the most fit places to live nationwide. The publication found that for many consumers—about 20 percent—the barrier to entry for getting fit isn’t due to lack dedication, but lack of
FUN WITH PHYSICS: MARCH 16 IN LA MESA
Printer-friendly version March, 8, 2013 (La Mesa)–Fun with Physics introduces all ages and the entire family to fun, hands-on science experiments. Fun with Physics will be held on Saturday, March 16, from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the La Mesa Boys and Girls Teen Club & Highwood Park, 7775 Junior High Drive, La Mesa, 91941. Experiments include: Bubbles, Sink
JUDGE GRANTS INJUNCTION TO PROTECT PHOTOGRAPHER AFTER THREATS BY PATTERN ENERGY’S PROJECT MANAGER AT OCOTILLO WIND
Printer-friendly version Update March 16, 2013: A second restraining order has been granted to Jim Pelley, the other ECM photographer threatened by Pattern Energy’s manager, Russell Graham. By Miriam Raftery March 7, 2013 (El Centro)—Superior Court Judge Richard Bohlander today granted an injunction for civil harassment relief to protect freelance photographer Parke Ewing following a violent threat made by Russell
SAN DIEGO RIVER PARK FOUNDATION INVITES YOU TO “SAVE THE SOURCE” MARCH 9 AND 10
Printer-friendly version Participants from across the county to join to explore and protect the Upper San Diego River On March 9 and 10, San Diego River Park Foundation is heading to the headwaters to Save the Source! This weekend, they will be coordinating six events to engage the community in exploring and caring for the upper San Diego River watershed.
PHOTOS OF THE WEEK: HIKING AT MISSION TRAILS REGIONAL PARK
Printer-friendly versionBy Greg Dunne March 6, 2013 – Last week I did back to back hikes in Missions Trails Regional Park. I was treated with three Mule Deer on the trail—a great sight! I have only seen deer at Mission Trails once before and that was after the Cedar fires of 2003. It was on my way back from North
FLOOD ADVISORY ISSUED: EAST COUNTY AND COASTAL COMMUNITIES INCLUDED
Printer-friendly version March 8, 2013 (San Diego) – The National Weather Service has issued a flood advisory for minor flooding in urban areas of San Diego, as well as several East County communities including El Cajon, Santee, Spring Valley and Valley Center. As ECM previously reported, snow is forecast for mountain areas down to 3500 feet, with thundershowers at
HAYES CONFIRMED AS DEPUTY SECRETARY OF INTERIOR AFTER GOP SENATORS LIFT BLOCK ON NOMINATION; POWERLINK BATTLE NOW ELEVATED TO NATIONAL LEVEL WITH EX-SEMPRA LOBBYIST OVERSEEING KEY DECISIONS
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery May 27, 2009 (Washington D.C.) –David J. Hayes, a former lobbyist for Sempra Energy/SDG&E, has been confirmed by the U.S. Senate as deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior. His nomination proceeded after an earlier block by Republican Senators from Alaska over oil and gas leases was lifted. Both California Senators, Barbara Boxer and
SATURDAY NIGHT FIGHT: WARGODS V AT VIEJAS
Printer-friendly versionMay 27, 2009 (Alpine)–MMA Veteran Vernon “Tiger” White will face one of Temecula Team Quest’s stand out Lew Polley at Wargods “Five” at the Viejas Casino in Alpine, California on Saturday, May 30th. Doors open at 5:30 for the event, which starts at 6:30 p.m. The main card will begin with a four man elimination tournament that will
LABOR VICTORY: SD SCHOOL BOARD VOTES TO KEEP 10,000 CONTRACTING JOBS LOCAL UNDER PROP S, REQUIRE CONTRACTORS TO PROVIDE HEALTH BENEFITS TO WORKERS
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery ”We cannot survive as a city if 75% of our children are coming out of families living in poverty…This is saying that our city is not going to live in poverty.”—Shelia Jackson, President, San Diego School Board May 27, 2009 (San Diego) – “Today, the School Board affirmed the vision of the future—that when tax dollars
EQUALITY TORCH RELAY SET IN EAST COUNTY JUNE 6
Printer-friendly versionMay 27, 2009 (San Diego’s East County)—“This is a time where we need equality,” says Eve Parker, lead organizer of the East County Equality Torch Relay slated for June 6th in Santee, El Cajon, La Mesa and Lemon Grove. The relay is part of a county-wide event for supporters of equal rights for gay and lesbian people. “I am
INSURANCE COMMISSIONER STEVE POIZNER ANNOUNCES SUPPORT FOR ANDERSON FIRE-RELIEF LEGISLATION; URGES SAN DIEGO RESIDENTS TO BE PREPARED FOR WILDFIRES
Printer-friendly versionMay 26, 2009 (San Diego’s East County)–Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner announced support of AB 157, authored by Assemblyman Joel Anderson (R-El Cajon). Poizner also offered disaster preparation tips for all San Diego residents, including advice for preparing a home inventory for insurance purposes. “Wildfire survivors face so many hurdles as they try to rebuild their homes and lives,
HOT TOPICS: FIRE CHIEFS DISCUSS FIRE SAFETY AND PREPAREDNESS AT RANCHO SAN DIEGO-JAMUL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BREAKFAST
Printer-friendly versionStory by Kyle Serzen Photo by Leon Thompson May 27, 2009 (Cuyamaca College)—Despite the friendly conversation and satisfying meal at last Friday’s Rancho San Diego-Jamul Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Meeting at Cuyamaca College, the focus was a serious issue—fire safety and preparedness for East County residents as fire season approaches. Cal Fire Battalion Chief Dave Allen and San Miguel
FIRE ON MOUNT LAGUNA
Printer-friendly versionMay 27, 2009 (6:55 a.m.)–A five-acre fire is burning in Laguna Meadows, one mile west of the Laguna Campground on Mount Laguna. No structures are threatened and all roads remain open. “It’s in a fairly inaccessible area, so our engine crews have hiked in. We have two hotshot crews as well, and a potential to have some air tankers
HELIX WATER DISTRICT CANCELS MAY 27 HEARING, AGREES TO REVAMP RATE HIKE PROPOSAL
Printer-friendly version By Dennis Moore May 24, 2009 (La Mesa) –Following a joint investigation by East County Magazine and Channel 10 news into allegations that Helix Water Board violated open government laws, the Board has voted to cancel a May 27 hearing and revise its rate hike proposal. "We won this round. They’re starting from scratch with a
FIRE DESTROYS TRAILER HOME IN EL CAJON
Printer-friendly versionMay 27, 2009 (El Cajon)– El Cajon Fire crews responded to a trailer home fire at the Horseshoe Trailer Park, located at 150 South Anza, Space 1B early this morning. As crews arrived, they found a 30-foot trailer home fully involved. Firefighters had the fire knocked down in less than 10 minutes. Their quick action kept the fire from
ANDERSON BILL TO PROVIDE TAX RELIEF FOR CEDAR FIRE VICTIMS PASSES ASSEMBLY APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE
Printer-friendly versionMay 26, 2009 (Sacramento)—Assembly Bill 157, a measure authored by Assemblyman Joel Anderson (R-Alpine) to help fire victims and other disaster survivors, passed the Assembly Appropriations Committee on May 18 by a unanimous vote. Under Anderson’s bill, homeowners in the 2003 Cedar Fire, as well as those who lose homes in other disasters after July 1, 2007, will have
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