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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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KEYBOARD ARTISTS CELEBRATE WITH PIANO PARTY
Printer-friendly versionNovember 27, 2012 (Alpine)—Piano students of Suzie Steenbergen held their autumn piano party recital celebration on November 18 in the sanctuary at Christ the King Episcopal Church in Alpine. “It was a fine afternoon and 50+ family members and friends gathered to hear piano music on the church’s lovely piano,” Steenbergen said. Photo caption: Left to right:Alex Speck,
KIWANIS JOINS EFFORT TO HELP SHOCKEY FIRE FAMILY
Printer-friendly versionDonations needed to repair trailer for winter November 26, 2012 (Jacumba) – Kiwanis Clubs in Campo and Crest have joined forces to assist a family with a two-year-old child. The family, who lost their home in the Shockey Fire, has been living in a temporary arrangement but was able to purchase a fifth-wheel trailer thanks to community donations. More
“LIGHTING AT THE LAKES: SOLAR TREE TO SHINE IN SANTEE DEC. 8
Printer-friendly version November 25, 2012 (Santee) – The Santee Lakes Foundation, in concert with San Diego State University, SDG&E and the Santee Lakes Preserve presents the inaugural “Lighting at the Lakes – 2012” December 8 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Lake One under the new Pavilion. As a special project of SDSU Graduate School candidates, the largest Christmas
SING-ALONG CHRISTMAS CAROLING ON MT. HELIX DEC. 16
Printer-friendly versionNovember 25, 2012 (La Mesa) – Sounds of the season will emanate from the Mt. Helix Park Amphitheatre on December 16 from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. during the annual Sing-along Christmas Caroling event. Gina Seashore, known locally as That Music Lady, will be leading the caroling with her regular group of musicians. A visiting barber shop quartet of elves
FIFTH ANNUAL “STUFF THE BUS” HOLIDAY FOOD DRIVE DEC. 1 AT ALBERTSONS STORES
Printer-friendly versionALBERTSONS pre-packaged food bags coupled with other generous donations will help meet the 15,000 lb. goal November 25, 2012 (San Diego) – Within the last five years, the number of San Diego residents relying on the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank for their meals has almost doubled. In these challenging economic times, the Food Bank is feeding
BRIDGETTE HALE’S FAMILY TAKES SAFETY MESSAGE NATIONAL: NTSB ISSUES GUIDELINES TO REDUCE IMPAIRED DRIVING AFTER FATAL CRASH ON HWY 67
Printer-friendly versionNovember 25, 2012 (Ramona) – “Since the State of California has ignored my requests and pleas for help in saving innocent lives from dying on California Highways, I took my fight to the federal level,” Ken Vanek, brother-in-law of Bridgette Hale, told East Couinty Magazine. Now the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) on November 23 has issued new recommendations to reduce impaired
SHOTS FIRED AT OFFICER IN LAKESIDE
Printer-friendly version November 26, 2012 (Lakeside) – ECM news partner 10 News reports that shots were fired at 1:45 a.m. at a Sheriff’s deputy in the 12700 block of Laurel Street in Lakeside. The deputy, who was not injured, said he thought the shots came from the Beechtreet Street and Pino Drive vicinity. A search for the gunman was not
UCCLM CHANCEL CHOIR PRESENTS ‘I BELIEVE, A CHRISTMAS CANTATA’ DEC. 16
Printer-friendly versionNovember 25, 2012 (La Mesa) – The United Church of Christ La Mesa Chancel Choir will present “I Believe” on Dec. 16 at 10 a.m. at 5940 Kelton Avenue, La Mesa. The cantata, composed by John F. Wilson , will be highlighted with a multi-media presentation of scenes depicting the Christmas story. The concert is free and all are
POLICE SEEK ARMED GUNMEN WHO ROBBED FAMILY, FORCED MOM AND CHILDREN INTO CLOSET
Printer-friendly versionNovember 26, 2012 (San Diego) – San Diego Police seek two suspects who followed two children into a City Heights home, than forced the youngsters and their mother into a closet at gunpoint at 6:34 on Sunday. Suspects then ransacked the house at 3230 Menlo Avenue in the Swan Canyon area and stole property before fleeing. Detailed descriptions of
TODAY IS “GIVING TUESDAY” — GET SHOPPING DISCOUNTS AND SUPPORT WORTHY CAUSES—INCLUDING EAST COUNTY MAGAZINE
Printer-friendly versionThis Giving Tuesday, Millions of People Turn Every Day Actions into Support for a Cause November 27 2012 (San Diego’s East County)—Today is “Giving Tuesday,” when people across the U.S. help give back to their favorite causes. Through Goodsearch, GoodShop and GoodDining, more than 15 million people are helping to “simply do good.” Over 2,500 merchants are offering special discounts this Tuesday, November
“Delana’s Dirty Pizza” Wins Charity Cook-Off at New Sammy’s in La Mesa
Printer-friendly versionIf you’re a fan of Sammy’s Wood-fired Pizza, check out "Delana’s Dirty Pizza" featured on the menu through mid-September. The creation concocted by Delana Bennett of Star 94.1 radio’s “Jeff and Jer Showgram” was judged the winner during a charity cook-off held August 13th to kick off the grand opening of Sammy’s newest location in the La Mesa Trolley
The Will Power Report – Solar Roofs
Printer-friendly version Nothing but the Truth! By Will Power The real unemployment rate in the U.S. is over 7%. Many people have stopped looking for jobs. Particularly hard hit is the construction business, due to the mortgage meltdown. The thin-film solar panel business needs a government subsidy and tax breaks for homeowners who install prefab solar panels. The new laser-deposited
Still No County Fire Department Five Years After Cedar Blaze
Printer-friendly version Still No County Fire Department Five Years After Cedar Blaze By E.A. Barrera “Given the existing high-risk conditions that are projected to continue into the future, destructive firestorms will certainly occur again. Yet, even armed with this knowledge and after the Cedar Fire wake-up call, the San Diego region is woefully unprepared.” — San Diego County Grand
Faith, Science and Anti-Catholicism: “THE X-FILES: I WANT TO BELIEVE”
Printer-friendly versionBy E.A. Barrera Courtesy of 20th Century Fox. “It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honor of kings is to search out a matter.” Proverbs 25:2 King James Bible “THE X-FILES: I WANT TO BELIEVE” is a solid, if not often campy thriller involving the nightmares and paranoia many science-fiction fans crave. The
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