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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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MEDICAL MARIJUANA BACKERS HAIL COURT DECISION OVERTURNING CONVICTION OF DISPENSARY OPERATOR IN SAN DIEGO
Printer-friendly version“By rejecting the Attorney General’s argument that patients who utilize dispensaries must collaborate…to cultivate the marijuana they purchase, the court is establishing a clear standard for dispensaries across the state.” –Joe Elford, Chief Counsel, Americans for Safe Access By Nadin Abbott October 26, 2012 (San Diego)—On Wednesday, the Fourth District Court of Appeal for California issued a unanimous ruling
VALLEY FEVER BLOWING ON A HOTTER WIND
Printer-friendly versionNew weather conditions brought on by climate change may help spread a fungal disease endemic to the Southwest known as valley fever By Janice Arenofsky and Environmental Health News October 26, 2012 –It’s high noon, and the 112–degree summer heat—up from a decade ago—stalks Arizona’s Sonoran Desert. By late afternoon, dark clouds threaten, and monsoon winds beat the earth
UNION BANK AND KPBS HONOR LOCAL HEROES IN CELEBRATION OF DISABILITY AWARENESS MONTH
Printer-friendly versionOctober 26, 2012(San Diego) – As part of its ongoing commitment to cultural diversity and responsible banking, and in commemoration of Disability Awareness Month, Union Bank, N.A., has partnered with KPBS to recognize two local heroes who are making a positive difference to improve the lives of others. The 2012 Local Heroes campaign is designed to celebrate and pay tribute to extraordinary
ON THE SILVER SCREEN: DAYS OF OUR PAST LIVES (CLOUD ATLAS)
Printer-friendly versionBy Brian Lafferty Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures October 26, 2012 (San Diego) – As my friend and I drove home after the Cloud Atlas screening, we at first didn’t know what to make of it. It’s a very cerebral film, one that elicits comparisons to Terrence Malick’s The Tree of Life and Michelangelo Frammartino’s Le Quattro Volte
HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL AT ORFILA WINERY OCT. 26
Printer-friendly versionOctober 26, 2012 (Escondido) – Orfila Vineyards & Winery is hosting a Halloween Festival October 26 from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. at its tasting room located at 13455 San Pasqual Rd., Escondido. Activities include a costume contest, wine tasting, live music, dancing, Halloween trivia and food trucks. Admission is free. For more information visit www.orfila.com. Printer-friendly version
TRICK OR TREAT ON MAINE IN LAKESIDE OCT. 31
Printer-friendly versionOctober 26, 2012 (Lakeside) – The 2nd Annual Trick or Treat on Maine, sponsored by the Lakeside Chamber of Commerce, will take place October 31 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Local businesses and organizations will be passing out candy and flyers. Bring the ghosts and goblins for a safe trick or treat experience. Printer-friendly version
47TH ANNUAL BORREGO DAYS DESERT FESTIVAL IS OCTOBER 26-28
Printer-friendly versionOctober 26, 2012 (Borrego Springs) — Grab the family and head out to California’s Secret Desert™, Borrego Springs, for the 47th Annual Borrego Days Desert Festival. Friends and family will gather for this three-day local tradition to enjoy the Heart of the Desert in our own backyard. The free festival, dedicated to the memory of Dennis Avery (1940-2012),
EAST COUNTY MAGAZINE’S VOTER GUIDE
Printer-friendly versionOctober 26, 2012 (San Diego’s East County) – As nonpartisan, nonprofit media, East County Magazine does not endorse candidates. W strive to provide information on all sides of ballot initiatives and issues, along with candidate interviews, videos of debates and forums, and more. View our updated Voter Guide below for in-depth info on statewide ballot initiatives, local bond measures,
FORMER TEACHER ELANA LEVENS-CRAIG WANTS TO “GIVE BACK TO MY COMMUNITY” ON THE SANTEE SCHOOL BOARD
Printer-friendly versionBy Janis Mork October 26, 2012 (San Diego’s East County) – Elana Levens-Craig is running against Gabriel Pina and Robin Fries for the Santee School Board Seat 4. ECM has contacted all candidates; below is Levens-Craig’s interview with ECM. Levens-Craig says she “is focusing on the ABC’s: Academics (innovate and improve classrooms), Budget (protect students’ education from financial
GABRIEL PINA STRIVES FOR “A GREAT EDUCATION” FOR KIDS IN SANTEE SCHOOL DISTRICT
Printer-friendly versionBy Janis Mork October 26, 2012 (Santee)- Small business owner Gabriel Pina is running against small business owner Elana Levens-Craig and real estate agent Robin Fries for seat 4 on the Santee school board this November. The seat is opened since Dan Bartholomew will not be up for re-election. ECM has asked all candidates to respond to questions; below
HUNGRY IN EAST COUNTY
Printer-friendly versionStory and photos by Gayle Early November 1, 2008 (La Mesa/Spring Valley) – It’s 7:00 a.m., third Saturday of the month. The line behind Crosspointe Life Church in La Mesa snakes through the parking lot and all the way down the alley. Feeding America, a nonprofit agency formerly known as Second Harvest, has dropped off its monthly food distribution
EAST COUNTY MAGAZINE’S EDITORS AND WRITERS SWEEP SAN DIEGO PRESS CLUB AWARDS
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery October 22, 2008 (San Diego) – Q: Who are those grinning people posing with San Diego State University icon Monty Montezuma at the Hall of Champions in Balboa Park? A: East County Magazine editor Miriam Raftery and consulting editor Jamie Reno, who collectively received 14 awards in San Diego Press Club’s 2008 Excellence in Journalism competition.
GET HIGH ON GREEN ROOFS AT CUYAMACA COLLEGE ON NOV 8
Printer-friendly versionBy Gayle Lynn Falkenthal, APR November 1, 2008 – A roof may seem like just a roof to you. But to Jim Mumford of Good Earth Plant Company, a roof is one big pot for plants. His imagination and vision have made him San Diego’s “green roof guru.” Mumford will share his expertise on green roofs in an upcoming
CONGRESSIONAL CANDIDATES ADDRESS ECONOMY, WAR, WILDFIRE AND OTHER ISSUES IMPACTING EAST COUNTY
Printer-friendly versionBy Joseph Rocha Duncan Hunter Mike Lumpkin October 28, 2008 (San Diego’s East County) – For better or for worse, come November 4th, the 27-year stronghold on the 52nd Congressional seat will be released. Republican Congressman Duncan Hunter is retiring. Now, East County finds itself under siege in one of the hottest Congressional races of the season as
LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON? LEGACY OF DUNCAN HUNTER, SR. AT ISSUE IN CONGRESSIONAL RACE — AND THE RECORD MAY SURPRISE YOU
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery October 28, 2008 (San Diego’s East County) – Duncan Duane Hunter seeks to capture the 52nd Congressional seat being vacated by his father, 27-year Congressman Duncan Hunter. He has voiced support for his father’s voting record yet chided his principal opponent, Michael Lumpkin, for claiming that the Hunter family seeks a monarchy-like transfer of power. The
CONGRESSIONAL DEBATE VIDEO — VIEW THE BATTLING VETS!
Printer-friendly versionOctober 28, 2008 (San Diego’s East County) – Two dueling veterans–Navy Seal Mike Lumpkin, Democrat and Marine Captain Duncan D. Hunter, Republican (son of the retiring Congressman)–plus Libertarian Michael Benoit share views on key issues in a 52nd Congressional District debate held at Cuyamaca College on October 22. View the full debate, sponsored by the East County Chamber of
MUTINY AT THE GOP?
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery November 1, 2008 (San Diego) – San Diego Republican Party Chair Tony Krvaric is alleged to have rigged endorsements including a mayoral race, violated state election law and party rules. A complaint filed by a Central Committee member calls for Krvaric’s ouster. Will the GOP Central Committee make its chairman, who has previously been implicated in
FIRE OFFICIALS SAY SHOCKEY FIRE CAUSE CAN’T BE DETERMINED; PRAISE CAMPO RESIDENTS FOR SAVING HOMES
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery Cal Fire Captain Richard Stephan October 27, 2008 (Campo) – The cause of the Shockey Fire, which burned approximately 400 acres on October 15, will likely never be conclusively determined, California Fire and Forestry (Cal Fire) officials informed East County Magazine’s editor during a recent visit at Campo’s fire station. “We found the area of origin
HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS
Printer-friendly versionDownload PDFs provided by Cal Fire in English and Spanish. Printer-friendly version
EL CAJON VOTERS TO DECIDE ON SALES TAX HIKE
Printer-friendly versionCouncilman blasts Assembly Rep for opposing Prop J without consulting Council or Mayor By Miriam Raftery 77th District Assemblyman Joel Anderson Voters in El Cajon will decide whether or not to approve Proposition J, which would raise sales tax by one-half cent on the dollar. “The decision to place a sales tax increase on the ballot for El Cajon
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