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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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REPAIR, REUSE AND RECYCLE IN RAMONA NOV. 3
Printer-friendly versionOctober 30, 2012 (Ramona) – County of San Diego Departments of Public Works and Environmental Health are holding a Recycling Event and Reuse & Repair Fair in Ramona, at 1401 Hanson Lane on Nov. 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Local experts will be on hand to demonstrate how to repair and reuse questionable or broken items. Items
EARTHTALK®: THE FRACKING CONTROVERSY
Printer-friendly versionE – The Environmental Magazine Written and edited by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss October 28, 2012 (San Diego’s East County) — Dear EarthTalk: I have heard that fracking is becoming a major environmental issue in the U.S. Which parts of the country are already hosting fracking operations? Are there efforts underway to stop the practice in specific states
FOUR ARRESTED IN EL CAJON HOT PROWL BURGLARY
Printer-friendly version October 28, 2012 (El Cajon)—A resident in the 1200 block of Yerba Verde heard his doorbell ring last night at 7:50 p.m. but didn’t answer. Looking outside, he saw three males put on gloves and look into windows of his home. “Fearing for his safety, the resident called 911 and hid,” said Lt. Tim Henson with the El
READER’S EDITORIAL: WHY IS THE 12TH HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT STILL AN ISSUE IN THE GROSSMONT UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT?
Printer-friendly versionBy Bill Weaver, candidate for the GUHSD board October 28, 2012 (Alpine) – Why is building a 12th high school for the Grossmont Union High School District in Alpine still an issue? Because it was twice funded by public initiative bond measures, Prop H ($274 M) and Prop U ($417 M), Further, HS12 is a money maker for the GUHSD, the one and ONLY bond
PHOTOS OF THE WEEK: WIND TURBINES SCAR VIEW FROM MCCAIN VALLEY’S CARRIZO GORGE OVERLOOK
Printer-friendly version October 28, 2012 (San Diego’s East County) – Construction of the Tule Wind project in McCain Valley has not yet begun, though developer Iberdrola has pledged to preserve the most scenic portion of views across the Carrizo Gorge. But photographer Tom Lemon stopped by McCain Valley’s famed Carrizo Gorge Overlook this weekend in McCain Valley, discovering to his
DUI PATROLS RESULT IN 4 ARRESTS NEAR SDSU AND QUALCOUMM
Printer-friendly versionOctober 28, 2012 (San Diego)–On the weekend prior to Halloween, Deputy Sheriffs and Police Officers from local agencies participatingin the San Diego County Avoid 15 Task Force conducted DUI saturation patrols near San Diego State University and Qualcomm stadium. Halloween weekend parties and the SDSU Aztec football game traditionally brings to the area an increase in DUI drivers. The
GRANT AWARDED TO THE EL CAJON POLICE DEPARTMENT
Printer-friendly versionOctober 28, 2012 (El Cajon)– The El Cajon Police Department has been awarded a grant from the San Diego County Law Enforcement Foundation (SDCLEF,) which enabled the Police Department to purchase a night vision monocular. This tool will be used by the Patrol Division to assist in searching dark alleys, vacant buildings and open areas. The night vision will
HURRICANE SANDY TO IMPACT “MILLIONS” ON EAST COAST; NEW YORK COULD HAVE 11-FOOT STORM SURGE
Printer-friendly versionNew York may be hardest hit; damage could extend inland as far as the Great Lakes View live satellite video from NASA: October 28, 2012 (San Diego) – San Diegans with relatives and friends in the eastern United States will want to keep watch on the weather. One of the largest tropical cyclones ever in the Atlantic is expected
TEEN DRIVER CHARGED WITH DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE AFTER SERIOUSLY INJURING TWO PEDESTRIANS
Printer-friendly version October 28, 2012 (La Mesa) – A 19-year-old driver on his way home from a party this morning lost control of a Chevy Suburban as he accelerated pulling away from a curb at 700 Glencoe Drive in the Jamacha/Lomita area. He drove onto the wrong side of the street, striking two pedestrians and two parked. One pedestrian, 19,
TSUNAMI WARNING ISSUED FOR PACIFIC NORTHWEST AND HAWAII AFTER 7.7 QUAKE STRIKES BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA
Printer-friendly version Update: A revised warning now includes the Pacific Northwest and Canada, as well as Hawaii. The tsunami is not expected to reach San Diego. October 27, 2012 (San Diego)—A powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale struck 25 miles south of Sandspit in British Columbia at 8:04 p.m. (The quake has been upgraded from an original estimate
POWERLINK FOES APPLAUD DEFEAT OF HAYES AS INTERIOR DEPUTY SECRETARY
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery May 13, 2009 (San Diego’s East County)—Senate Republicans blocked the nomination by President Barack Obama of David Hayes to serve as deputy secretary of the Interior Department. Hayes, who held the same position in the Clinton administration, has drawn opposition from some community leaders and environmentalists locally due to his recent role as lobbyist for Sempra
GROSSMONT CENTER HOSTS “LEARN AND CONSERVE” EVENT MAY 16
Printer-friendly versionMay 12, 2009 (La Mesa)– – With the water restriction use being enforced on June 1ST Grossmont Shopping Center is hosting a Learn To Conserve event on Saturday, May 16TH in Macy’s Courtyard. The event will run from 10a.m. – 2p.m. Event partners will provide tips for water and electricity conservation and host fun demonstrations. There is nothing like
EL CAJON CELEBRATES BIKE TO WORK WEEK
Printer-friendly versionThe term "wheels of government" takes on new meaning in El Cajon this week, as employees are encouraged to join in “Bike to Work Week” May 11 through 15. The nationwide endeavor aims to educate the public about benefits of bicycling and to increase awareness, safety and respect for bicyclists, as well as highlighting cycling as an important means
PASSAGES: SUZANNE DI MASCIO, R.N., MANAGER OF RYAN WHITE PROGRAM AND DIRECTOR OF AMERICHOICE, LOSES BATTLE WITH CANCER
Printer-friendly versionWIFE OF EAST COUNTY MAGAZINE’S BUSINESS MANAGER WILL BE MISSED May 11, 2009 (Santee)—Suzanne (“Suzy”) Marie Di Mascio, a leading voice in San Diego’s healthcare community and wife of East County Magazine’s business manager Leon Thompson, passed away on May 7, 2009 at San Diego Hospice following a long battle against cancer. Her efforts helped improve access to healthcare
FILNER AMENDMENT PROTECTS RENTERS, REQUIRES NOTICE IF LANDLORD FACES FORECLOSURE RISK
Printer-friendly versionMay 12, 2009 (Washington, DC) – Congressman Filner has joined his colleagues in passing the Mortgage Reform and Anti-Predatory Lending Act, H.R. 1728. This legislation aims to prevent the types of predatory and irresponsible mortgage loan practices that played a major role in the current financial and economic meltdown. Congressman Filner worked to include a provision in the final
MAY 12 SCREENING OF “RUNNING DRY” TO BENEFIT ARCHI’S ACRES ORGANIC FARM AND VETERANS’ TRAINING
Printer-friendly versionMay 8, 2009 San Diego, CA – Lestat’s West, the showroom next to the eclectic San Diego coffee house in Normal Heights, will screen “Running Dry”, a powerful documentary on the growing global water crisis on Tuesday, May 12 at 7:00 pm. “Running Dry” is a comprehensive public information/education project, established to raise awareness about the worsening global humanitarian
HIGH SCHOOL COUNSELOR SHARON NEUMANN RECEIVES ENDOWMENT AWARD
Printer-friendly versionMay 10, 2009 (San Diego’s East County)–Sharon Neumann, a Grossmont Middle College High School counselor, has been honored as the 2009 Frank Jonasson Endowment Award recipient. The Jonasson Endowment at San Diego State University (SDSU) annually recognizes a high school counselor in San Diego or Imperial Counties who has “gone above and beyond the call of duty” for students
ECCAC HOSTS PARTY MAY 30 TO FUND LEGAL BATTLE AGAINST POWERLINK: MAY 30 IN LAKESIDE
Printer-friendly versionThe East County Community Action Coalition (ECCAC) is sponsoring a fundraiser on Saturday, May 30, 2009 from 11-4 pm at Hazy Meadow Ranch in Lakeside, CA. This is an all-county event that will feature live music, raffle, opportunity drawing, carnvial games, pony rides, and more. The organization seeks public help to fund legal action to "sunset" Sunrise Powerlink. The
PROBLEMS? WHAT WATER PROBLEMS?
Printer-friendly versionWater, water everywhere: How San Diego Can Become Water Self-Sufficient—And Even Be a Water Exporter A Commentary By Jim Bell May 10, 2009 (San Diego)–Many experts are projecting doom and gloom, scenarios of decreasing water supplies and increasing cost, yet the San Diego/Tijuana Region can easily become renewable water self-sufficient and even become a net water exporter. Yes, that’s
OLÉ! DUAL GRAND OPENING ON CINCO DE MAYO DRAWS A CROWD
Printer-friendly versionMay 9, 2009 (Rancho San Diego)—Two new businesses, Savanna Grill and Realty Executives, teamed up to co-host a grand opening Cinco De Mayo celebration that proved both festive and successful. “We had over 500 people attend,” said Valerie Harrison, president of the Rancho San Diego-Jamul Chamber of Commerce, organizer of the event. Guests feasted on tri-tip and sipped dollar
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