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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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SUNSCREEN RECALLED AFTER BURSTING INTO FLAMES WHEN APPLIED TO SKIN
Printer-friendly versionNovember 9, 2012 (Washington D.C.) — A nationwide recall of Banana Boat spray-on sunscreens has been issued by Energizer Holdings, Inc., the U.S. Food & Drug Association (FDA) announced. The voluntary recall follows five cases of consumers suffering burns after the product ignited on the skin. Read more for a list of products and additional details:
SANTEE SCHEDULES HOLIDAY LIGHTING CELEBRATION
Printer-friendly versionNovember 9, 2012 (Santee) Despite a surplus of winter sunshine rather than snow, the city of Santee has found the formula to making the season feel like an old-fashioned movie, at least for one evening. Families are invited to experience this magic by attending the City of Santee and Waste Management Holiday Lighting Ceremony at Santee Trolley Square from
DEAD SCIENTISTS & EXPLORERS WAX MUSEUM AT BOULDER OAKS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Printer-friendly versionNovember 9, 2012 (Alpine) — Last Friday, November 2, Marie Curie, John Muir, Buzz Aldrin, Neil Armstrong, Henry Ford, Orville Wright and Amelia Earhart were spotted at Boulder Oaks Elementary School in Alpine! Fourth and fifth grade students from Mrs. Newcomb, Mrs. Morales and Mrs. Golden’s classes brought famous figures back to life at the school’s annual Dead Scientists and Explorers
ALL ABOARD THE SANTA TRAIN AT PACIFIC SOUTHWEST RAILWAY MUSEUM NOV – DEC
Printer-friendly versionNovember 9, 2012 (Campo) – All aboard the Santa Train North Pole Limited at the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum. The trains will be running Nov. 23-24, 30 and Dec. 7-8, 14-15 & 21-22 and depart at either 5:00 p.m. or 7:00 p.m. from the Museum at Highway 94 at Forrest Gate Road, Campo. Santa’s Elves will serve cookies and
START THE HOLIDAYS WITH A ROAR AT LIONS, TIGERS, & BEARS 2012 CHRISTMAS PARTY DECEMBER 8
Printer-friendly versionNovember 9, 2012 (Alpine) – Lions, Tigers & Bears is holding its 2012 Christmas Party on December 8 from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. at 24402 Martin Way, Alpine. This celebration is a great way to show your support for the Big Cats by spending some time with them and finding unique holiday gifts from among the many vendors
THE ALPINE WOMAN’S CLUB 8TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY HOME TOUR IS DECEMBER 9TH
Printer-friendly versionNovember 9, 2012 (Alpine) – The Alpine Woman’s Club 8th Annual Holiday Home Tour is December 9 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. You will have an opportunity to stroll through five stunning homes which will be decorated for the holidays and visit a local church which will also be decorated for the season. Ticket holders can stop by
IT’S A TURKEY TOSS AT LOUIS STELZER PARK NOVEMBER 10
Printer-friendly versionNovember 9, 2012 (Lakeside) – County Parks and Rec is holding a Turkey Toss November 10 at Louis Stelzer Park, 11470 Wildcat Canyon Rd, Lakeside. This children’s event will run from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The children will toss aluminum cans at different targets for points. The competition will be broken up based on age with the first
SAN DIEGO COUNTY PARKS & REC HAVE A CORNUCOPIA OF EVENTS IN NOVEMBER
Printer-friendly versionNovember 9, 2012 (San Diego) — Much is happening in San Diego County parks and recreation centers this November. There is something for everyone, from crafts to wild life and nature hikes. Visit www.sdparks.org for more information regarding the events listed below. Agua Caliente Regional Park 39555 Great Souther Stage Rte of 1849, Anza Borrego Desert Craft Time –
MOTORCYCLE FATALITY ACCIDENT ON DEHESA ROAD
Printer-friendly versionNovember 9, 2012 (El Cajon) – At approximately 6:50 AM this morning San Miguel Firefighters responded to Dehesa Road and Willow Glen, where a 45 year old male from El Cajon was traveling eastbound on Dehesa Rd. west of Willow Glen Dr. He was riding a 1996 Suzuki motorcycle. For reasons unknown he failed to maintain control of the
2ND ANNUAL CHRISTMAS IN JAMUL CRAFT SHOW NOV. 17
Printer-friendly versionNovember 9, 2012 (Jamul) – The 2nd Annual Christmas in Jamul craft show is November 17, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Reno’s Pub & Grub, 14019 Campo Road, Jamul. The craft show features Christmas themed crafts and more by local craftsmen. Santa will be on hand for photo opportunities. The craft show will take place on the
Puppy recovering from severe collar injury; County seeks public’s help
Printer-friendly versionBy Sir Milo Loftin, County of San Diego Communications Office October 26, 2025 (San Diego) – County Animal Services is asking for the public’s help to learn more about a puppy found with a severe neck injury caused by a collar that had become embedded in his skin. The puppy was brought into the County’s Bonita shelter as a
Seven women honored at East County Chamber WILL event
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service Oct. 23, 2025 (East County) — The San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce awarded a group of top females from around the county last Friday at its 23rd annual Women in Leadership event. The Women in Leadership Luncheon, with more than 450 attendees at Sycuan Casino, honored seven women who excel professionally and
Funeral procession for fallen LMPD Officer Lauren Craven October 28
Printer-friendly versionLa Mesa officials say to expect major traffic delays East County News Service Oct. 25, 2025 (La Mesa) — A funeral procession is planned for fallen La Mesa Police Officer Lauren Craven starting at 7:30 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 28, according to the La Mesa Police Department. Craven, 25, was killed in the line of duty on October 20,
From the Fire Chief’s Corner: Let’s “move it” this November
Printer-friendly versionGrowing Conversations, Saving Lives By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna October 24, 2025 (San Diego) – Each November, a global movement takes root, one mustache at a time. Movember isn’t just about facial hair; it’s about facing the facts. Men’s health is in crisis, and silence is no longer an option. A Movement with Muscle Founded in 2003 in Melbourne, Australia,
Police arrest person who hit juvenile with car in El Cajon
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service Oct. 24, 2025 (El Cajon) — Local public safety officials have arrested the person who is believed to have been the driver of a car linked to a hit-and-run collision on Wednesday night, Oct. 22 in El Cajon that put a 12-year-old boy in the hospital. Dani Korkis, 35, of Lakeside was arrested
County launches new Alert San Diego app, replacing SD Emergency
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service Oct. 24, 2025 (San Diego County) — The name and look of the emergency information app for the County of San Diego has changed, and now has new features to help keep residents safe. Known previously as SD Emergency, it is now called Alert San Diego. The updated app is part of the
Passages: Grossmont Union High School District mourns the passing of former superintendent Mike Fowler
Printer-friendly versionSource: Grossmont Union High School District October 24, 2025 (El Cajon) – With deep sadness, the Grossmont Union High School District (GUHSD) announces the passing of former Superintendent Mike Fowler, who devoted nearly three decades of extraordinary service to East County students and families. He passed away following a courageous battle with brain cancer. Statement from GUHSD Governing Board President
Events planned to support family of La Mesa Police officer killed in car crash
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service Oct. 23, 2025 (La Mesa) — At least three events are planned to honor fallen La Mesa Police officer Lauren Craven, one tomorrow night at Pink Rose Cafe in La Mesa and another Wednesday, Nov. 5 at Casa Gabriela in La Mesa. The La Mesa Police Department is also having a candlelight vigil
Safely dispose of prescription medications this Saturday, Oct. 25
Printer-friendly versionBy Yvette Urrea Moe, County of San Diego Communications Office October 23, 2025 (San Diego) – The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office is urging people to check their homes and collect unused or expired prescription medications and turn them in on National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. People can anonymously drop medication off at one of nine Sheriff’s locations,
Climate Action Plan and Green Building Incentive Program: County hosts virtual meeting Oct. 28
Printer-friendly versionSource: County of San Diego October 23, 2025 (San Diego) – The County of San Diego County Planning & Development Services (PDS) invites you to attend a virtual public meeting on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. to learn about and share your input on the County’s implementation of the Climate Action Plan (CAP) and the development of the Green Building
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