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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 “MIRACLE” OF RECOVERY: TREATMENT EXPERT HAS MESSAGE OF HOPE FOR ADDICTS AND THEIR FAMILIES
Printer-friendly version By Anthony Moreno December 20, 2012 (San Diego) — Not many people would give their personal cell phone number out on live television, but Jeanne McAlister, Founder and CEO of McAlister Institute, will do whatever she can to get someone suffering from substance abuse into treatment. She founded the institute, a 501(c)(3), in 1977. Thirty-five years later, it
SANTEE HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR WINS BBB AWARD
Printer-friendly version December 20, 2012 (Santee) – The San Diego Better Business Bureau (BBB) has announced that Santee resident Kay Toma, a senior attending Francis Parker High School, has been awarded a $1,500 cash scholarship from the BBB after writing a 400-word essay on the importance of ethics and integrity in the community. Toma was the top prize winner among
BE AN INFORMED CHARITABLE GIVER THIS HOLIDAY SEASON: TIPS ON WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR WHEN DONATING
Printer-friendly versionProvided courtesy of Daniel P. Harris, Senior Vice President, Regional Manager, Philanthropic Services at Wells Fargo December 20, 2012 (San Diego) – You might be surprised to learn that 73% of charitable giving comes from individual contributions – five times more than corporate donations. Now more than ever organizations are relying on nonprofit giving for support, particularly during the
FROM THE CHIEF’S CORNER: CHRISTMAS DAY SAFETY – IT’S HERE!
Printer-friendly versionDecember 20, 2012 (San Diego) – Well Christmas is officially here! The last couple weeks we have focused on both outdoor and indoor holiday safety. Christmas day will arrive soon and there’s a few additional safety tips to be aware of! We’re going to be cooking more over the next few days and on Christmas. Be careful wearing loose
SDG&E COMPLETES DESERT SOLAR POWER PURCHASE AGREEMENTS
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery Environmentalists voice concerns over impacts on desert views and habitat December 20, 2012 – San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) announced on Monday the completion of two new long-term power purchase agreements in Imperial Valley totaling 40 megawatts (MW) of solar energy. The power is to be produced in Brawley and Calipatria with diverse business enterprise
LOCAL UNIONS HELP 500 FAMILIES HAVE CHRISTMAS DINNER AND TOYS FOR THEIR CHILDREN
Printer-friendly versionBy Nadin Abbott December 18, 2012 (San Diego)– it was raining and it was cold this morning at Qualcomm Stadium, as union members prepared to give 500 families the fixings for a Christmas Dinner and toys for their children. One of the recipients was Veronica, who did not share her last name. She is a member of the ATU,
HOLIDAY CLOSURES FOR EL CAJON OFFICES
Printer-friendly versionDecember 20, 2012 (El Cajon) – An extended holiday closure is planned for City offices from December 21, 2012, through January 1, 2013. This includes City Hall, the Recreation Centers, the Public Works Yard and Fire Administration offices. Regular office hours will resume on Wednesday, January 2, 2013. The El Cajon Police Station will be closed December 24, December
FIRE RESTRICTIONS REDUCED ON THE CLEVELAND NATIONAL FOREST
Printer-friendly versionDecember 20, 2012 (San Diego) – Effective Tuesday morning at 6:00 am, December 18, 2012, fire restrictions on the Cleveland National Forest were reduced to the “General Level.” The recent rain and cooler temperatures have lessened likelihood that small fires will become larger fires. “While the height of our fire season may be coming to an end, we urge
FAMILY OF TEEN KILLED AT CEDAR CREEK FALLS SUES U.S. FOREST SERVICE, ALLEGES WARNINGS OF DANGERS IGNORED
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery December 18, 2012 (El Cajon) – Parents of Joseph Meram, a 16-year-old El Cajon teen who died July 6, 2011 after falling 80 feet from the top of Cedar Creek Falls in Cleveland National Forest near Ramona, has filed a lawsuit alleging “willful, wanton, or grossly negligent” actions on the part of the U.S. Forest Service.
CONGRESSMAN-ELECT SCOTT PETERS TO SERVE ON HOUSE ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE
Printer-friendly versionDecember 19, 2012 (San Diego)– The U.S. House of Representatives Democratic Caucus today announced that Rep.-Elect Scott Peters has been assigned to serve on the House Armed Services Committee. The move strengthens San Diego’s representation on the committee, where Democrat Susan Davis and Republican Duncan D. Hunter are already members. “Our military and defense industry is a large and
NEED SANDBAGS? GET THEM AT THESE CAL-FIRE STATIONS
Printer-friendly versionFebruary 16, 2009 (San Diego’s East County)–In preparation for the expected weather CAL FIRE has prepositioned 4×4 engines in strategic locations near I-8 in East County. CAL FIRE also has sand bags available at the following stations: Deer Springs Station 11 8709 CIRCLE R DRIVE ESCONDIDO, CA 92026 CAL FIRE Station 70 16971 HIGHWAY 76 PAUMA VALLEY, CA. 92061
CA BUDGET ONE VOTE SHY OF PASSAGE: HOLLINGSWORTH LEADS OPPOSITION
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery February 18, 2009 (San Diego) — Efforts to pass a $40 billion state budget plan collapsed over the weekend due to Republicans refusal to support the plan, which fell one vote shy of passage in the Senate. The state has halted refund checks to taxpayers and payments to vendors, stopped 2,000 public works projects
HUNTER INTRODUCES RIGHT TO LIFE ACT: BILL WOULD DECLARE LIFE BEGINS AT CONCEPTION; NO EXCEPTIONS FOR RAPE, INCEST, OR SAVING A MOTHER’S LIFE
Printer-friendly versionFebruary 13, 2009 (Washington DC) –“Congressman Duncan Hunter has introduced H.R. 881, which would declare that life begins at conception. The Right to Life Act would establish “personhood of the unborn” by requiring equal protection under the 14th amendment of the Constitution to the “born and unborn” beginning with the moment of fertilization or cloning. Hunter’s bill contains no
HOUSE PASSES STIMULUS BILL THAT AIMS TO CREATE 396,000 JOBS IN CALIFORNIA; LOCAL LEADERS SPLIT VOTES
Printer-friendly versionFebruary 13, 2009 — The House of Representatives passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act by a vote of 246-183. Local Democratic representatives Bob Filner and Susan Davis voted for the measure, while Republicans Duncan D. Hunter, Brian Bilbray and Darrell Issa voted no. According to the White House, the measure will create or save 396,000 jobs in California
DON QUIXOTE BATTLES WINDMILLS — AND SO DO THE FOLKS IN BOULEVARD
Printer-friendly versionPART II in a three-part series: WHY BOULEVARD? By Gayle Early Pristine vale in McCain Valley slated for transmission lines, including Sunrise PowerLink. (photo by Gayle Early) February 16, 2009 (Boulevard) — Iberdrola Renewables and other parties have had their fingers in the wind, testing for the past three years and more. “If you link the windy areas in
STATE OF THE COUNTY ADDRESS: “OMINOUS DAYS BEFORE US,” JACOB WARNS
Printer-friendly versionCounty to Sue State Over Funding Cuts By Miriam Raftery Supervisor Dianne Jacob February 12, 2009 (El Cajon) — Dianne Jacob, Chairwoman of the County Board of Supervisors, presented a bleak outlook in a State of the County address presented last night at Cuyamaca College. As a result of falling revenues and state budget cuts, lay-offs and deep cuts
HARBISON CANYON FIRE STATION REOPENS
Printer-friendly versionFebruary 10, 2009 (Harbison Canyon) — Like a phoenix arisen from the ashes, a new fire station has opened to replace the Harbison Canyon station that burned down during the 2003 Cedar Fire. CAL FIRE-Rural Protection District held a grand opening to celebrate completion of the new station, which was funded by insurance, the Sycuan tribe, and Supervisor Dianne
EL CAJON MOURNS PASSING OF WAYNE STALKER, LONG-TIME EMPLOYEE AND ARTIST
Printer-friendly versionThe El Cajon Police Department and the City are saddened by the death of retired Animal Control Officer Wayne Stalker. Wayne passed away on Wednesday, February 4 after a long courageous battle against cancer. Wayne joined the El Cajon Police Department as a Volunteer Police Reserve Officer on September 9, 1981, and then held various positions at the police
FREE GYMNASTICS DAY FOR KIDS FEB. 21 AT CAMEROM FAMILY YMCA, SANTEE
Printer-friendly versionFebruary 12, 2009 (Santee) — The Cameron Family YMCA in Santee will host their annual Free Gymnastics Day on Sat., Feb. 21 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. The event is a special day of fun in the branch’s fully-equipped gymnastics center for boys and girls ages three to 13 years of age. The Cameron Family YMCA is located
FILNER JOINS 20 MEMBERS OF CONGRESS TO ESTABLISH POPULIST CAUCUS FOR MIDDLE CLASS ECONOMIC ISSUES
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery February 12, 2009 (Washington, DC) Today, Rep. Bob Filner (D-San Diego) announced that he has joined with 20 other Democratic members of Congress to form the Populist Caucus, the only caucus in Congress devoted solely to addressing middle class economic issues. Printer-friendly version
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