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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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OSPREY NESTING TOWER TAKES WING AT LAKESIDE RIVER PARK
Printer-friendly versionStory, photos and video by Billy Ortiz View video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9Y0hc267sA November 3, 2012 (Lakeside) — On a cool, cloudy autumn morning on October 20 in East County a group of teenage Boy Scouts from troop 801 in Coronado arrived at the Lakeside River Park. They brought heavy timbers and other materials to build what they hope will become a
KENSINGTON COMMUNITY CHURCH WELCOMES NEW SENIOR MINISTER DARRYL KISTLER
Printer-friendly versionNovember 3, 2012 (San Diego)—Kensington Community Church welcomes the Rev. Darryl Kistler as its new senior minister. For the past five years, the Rev. Kistler, 37, served as pastor of Community Congregational Church in Kalispell, Montana, where he tripled average attendance, led the congregation through a vision process, prioritized the church’s online presence and use of technology in worship,
WHAT IS DCA? THE REAL STORY BEHIND THIS ALTERNATIVE CANCER TREATMENT
Printer-friendly versionBy The Reno Dispatch Guest Blogger Martin C. Winer November 3, 2012 (San Diego) — One of the most devastating diagnoses a patient can receive is cancer, which can sometimes mean years of chemotherapy, radiation and/or surgery affecting the patient’s quality of life. As a result, patients often look to the Internet hoping to find an alternative that will
STATE FIRE TAX NOTICES NOW HITTING LOCAL MAILBOXES
Printer-friendly versionNovember 3, 2012 (Sacramento) – State officials have started mailing notices to tens of thousands of San Diego County property owners warning that they will soon be billed $150 annually to help shore up Cal Fire’s budget. Budget cuts have dropped the number of firefighters per engine, among other cutbacks in wildfire protection. Residents of Alpine, Dehesa and other
SDG&E TO DONATE MORE THAN $600,000 THROUGH “HELPING PEOPLE IN NEED” INITIATIVE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Printer-friendly versionNovember 3, 2012 (San Diego)– With the holiday season approaching, San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) announced that it will provide more than $600,000 in charitable donations to non-profit organizations in San Diego and Orange counties as part of its continuing commitment to help local underserved communities in need. “SDG&E shares the goals of local non-profit organizations that work
HELPING HANDS ANIMAL SANCTUARY LAUNCHES VOLUNTEER DRIVE
Printer-friendly versionAnimal rescue operation announces push for volunteers, interns and grant writers to help continue mission of compassion to save animals in need. Sanctuary serves neglected population of animals. November 3, 2012 (La Mesa) – The Helping Hands Animal Sanctuary of La Mesa announced on October 23 a unique holiday volunteer drive to help continue its mission of providing help
PORTABLE GENERATORS SOLD AT COSTCO RECALLED DUE TO FIRE DANGER
Printer-friendly versionNovember 2, 2012 (Washington D.C.) – Portable generators made by Champion Power Equipment have been recalled by the company due to a fire hazard, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced today. The generators were sold exclusively at Costco Stores nationwide from December 2011 to July 2012 for about $699. Fuel can leak from the generator’s carburetor, posing a
“WISH LIST” FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILES WHO LOST HOMES IN THE SHOCKEY FIRE
Printer-friendly versionNovember 2, 2012 (Boulevard) – Thanks to our generous readers who helped raise several thousand dollars plus supplies to benefit 11 families who lost homes in the recent Shockey fire. “So many wonderful people are out there with wonderful caring hearts,” Lorrie Ostrander, who organized a fundraising event for fire survivors told ECM. Some fire surivors are now placed
GLOVES COME OFF IN EMBATTLED GROSSMONT UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT RACE
Printer-friendly versionDoug Deane and Jim Kelly confirm Grand Jury investigation; education leaders clash on Alpine High and bond money issues By Miriam Raftery November 2, 2012 (San Diego’s East County) – A prominent education leader has stepped forward to defend GUHSD board member Priscilla Schreiber and candidate Jim Weaver from attacks made by board member Jim Kelly in an editorial
LOCAL REPUBLICANS VOTED FOR RYAN-BILBRAY BUDGET THAT DRASTICALLY REDUCED DISASTER RELIEF AND PREPAREDNESS
Printer-friendly versionNovember 2, 2012 (San Diego’s East County) – San Diego’s local Republican Congressmen Brian Bilbray, Duncan Hunter and Darrell Issa voted for the Paul Ryan budget which would have deeply reduced emergency response and preparedness to disasters such as Hurricane Sandy and local wildfires. An analysis from Third Way says that the Ryan-Bilbray budget “would set the clock back
Newsom signs laws to resist Trump’s immigration crackdown; including ban on masks for ICE agents
Printer-friendly versionBy Cayla Mihalovich and Jeanne Kuang, CalMatters This story was originally published by CalMatters. Sign up for their newsletters. September 20, 2025 (Sacramento) – Gov. Gavin Newsom today signed a set of bills meant to check the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration crackdown in California, including a first-in-the nation measure to prohibit officers from wearing masks and others that limit
Need money for college? Here are scholarship opportunities.
Printer-friendly version East County News Service. September 19, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) – Each year, Supervisor Joel Anderson sends out a scholarship and grant list which is updated annually. “I am aware of the financial barriers that many students and parents face when applying for colleges and other training programs,” says Anderson. “Having three children who went through this
Top hat and tails is theme of La Mesa Chamber’s Salute to Local Heroes Oct. 8
Printer-friendly version September 19, 2025 (La Mesa) — The La Mesa Chamber of Commerce announces its 15th annual Salute to Local Heroes, which will incorporate the theme “Top Hat & Tails” This night celebrates local heroes, recognizes the incoming Chamber Board of Directors, includes a silent auction, raffles and more. This event will be held on October 8 from 5:30
Bill to protect Native American children passes Legislature unanimously, heads to Governor
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery September 19, 2025 (Sacramento, CA) – After passing both the Assembly and State Senate unanimously (with one abstention), a bill aimed at preventing placement of Native American children in foster care away from their tribes and providing supportive services is now awaiting action by Governor Gavin Newsom. Assembly Bill 1378 would amend state law to let
ECM World Watch: National and global news
Printer-friendly versionSeptember 19, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) — As part of our commitment to reflect all voices and views, we include links to a variety of news sources representing a broad spectrum of political, religious, and social views. Top world and U.S. headlines include: U.S. Economy Fed cuts interest rates for first time this year amid weakening labor market (Fox Business)
Find your home’s hazard risks to prepare for an emergency
Printer-friendly versionBy Yvette Urrea Moe, County of San Diego Communications Office September 19, 2025 (San Diego) – September is Disaster Preparedness Month, and it is an ideal time to think about the critical preparedness steps could reduce risks and protect you and your family in an emergency. County Emergency Services has a free online Know Your Hazards Mapping Tool, where
East County Roundup: local and statewide news
Printer-friendly versionSeptember 18, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) — East County Roundup highlights top stories of interest to East County and San Diego’s inland regions, published in other media. This week’s round-up stories include: LOCAL San Diego County Supervisors Vote to Expand Oversight of Jail Healthcare After In-Custody Deaths (Hoodline) Elected officials announce proposed ordinance aimed at fed enforcement actions
Incompetence and cruelty are expensive: Trump’s actions may bankrupt U.S. treasury
Printer-friendly version By Alexander Schorr September 18, 2025 (Washington D.C.) — President Donald Trump could render the US Treasury bankrupt. According to an op-ed by a businsess law educator published in Newsweek, everything hinges upon whether or not the Supreme Court will side with Trump’s declared tariffs that critics have called illegal — a decision that could force the Treasury to
Health and science highlights
Printer-friendly versionSeptember 18, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) — Our Health and Science Highlights provide cutting edge news that could impact your health and our future. HEALTH West Coast states issue joint vaccine guidelines in shift away from CDC (ABC) CDC panel votes to push back MMRV vaccine recommendation to 4 years old (The Hill) A common nasal spray may
Exclusive: ECM obtains video showing start of Coches Fire
Printer-friendly version View video September 17, 2025 (Lakeside) — East County Magazine photographer Patrick Ward has obtained surveillance video from a Lakeside homeowner who lives next to the spot where the Coches Fire began. The video from the homeowner, who asked to remain anonymous, shows vehicles on the roadway around 2:56 p.m. on September 8, 2025, followed by brush igniting
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