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Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber warns of ongoing threats to voting rights at East County Democratic Club meeting
Printer-friendly version Story and photo by Paul Levikow April 22, 2026 (Alpine) — California Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber recently delivered an assessment of the challenges facing the state’s electoral system, while urging vigilance and civic participation ahead of the 2026 elections. About 30 attendees gathered at The Alpine Club for the East
Villa Musica expanding to East County for 20th anniversary
Printer-friendly version East County News Service April 22, 2026 (El Cajon) — For two decades, the halls of Villa Musica’s Sorrento Valley headquarters have been alive with a specific kind of beautiful chaos — the steady thumps on the drum, soaring scales of soprano singers and the first notes of
News Issues
Villa Musica expanding to East County for 20th anniversary
Printer-friendly version East County News Service April 22, 2026 (El Cajon) — For two decades, the halls of Villa Musica’s Sorrento Valley headquarters have been alive with a specific kind of beautiful chaos — the steady thumps on the drum, soaring scales of soprano singers and the first notes of
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
Politics
Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber warns of ongoing threats to voting rights at East County Democratic Club meeting
Printer-friendly version Story and photo by Paul Levikow April 22, 2026 (Alpine) — California Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber recently delivered an assessment of the challenges facing the state’s electoral system, while urging vigilance and civic participation ahead of the 2026 elections. About 30 attendees gathered at The Alpine Club for the East
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
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
Villa Musica expanding to East County for 20th anniversary
Printer-friendly version East County News Service April 22, 2026 (El Cajon) — For two decades, the halls of Villa Musica’s Sorrento Valley headquarters have been alive with a specific kind of beautiful chaos — the steady thumps on the drum, soaring scales of soprano singers and the first notes of
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
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
East County-based physician Charles Hamori honored by American College of Physicians
Printer-friendly version By Karen Pearlman April 21, 2026 (La Mesa) — When he was a teenager growing up in Muncie, Indiana, Charles Hamori performed his first successful medical diagnosis — on himself. Hamori was 14 when he correctly identified his own appendicitis, and it was at that moment (or soon
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
Features
Villa Musica expanding to East County for 20th anniversary
Printer-friendly version East County News Service April 22, 2026 (El Cajon) — For two decades, the halls of Villa Musica’s Sorrento Valley headquarters have been alive with a specific kind of beautiful chaos — the steady thumps on the drum, soaring scales of soprano singers and the first notes of
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
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Jamul Casino Resort officially unveils brand new hotel tower
Printer-friendly versionSan Diego’s newest boutique hotel now open East County News Service October 17, 2025 (Jamul) – San Diego’s premier new luxury destination, Jamul Casino Resort, recently welcomed guests to the official grand opening of its state-of-the-art boutique hotel tower, marking a new era in Southern California hospitality. The stunning 16-story property features a premium spa with a full-service
No Kings rallies across San Diego County and nation Oct. 18
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service October 16, 2025 (San Diego) – Organizers are predicting that this Saturday’s “No Kings” demonstration against the “authoritarianism of the Trump regime” may be the largest yet, including over 2,500 sites in all 50 states as well as territories and other nations. Locally, a large rally is planned at Waterfront Park in downtown San Diego
Lemon Grove film premiere Oct. 17 and 18 shines light on community spirit and history
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service October 16, 2025 (Lemon Grove) – Lemon Town Films proudly presents the hometown premiere of Welcome Home to Lemon Grove, California, a new documentary by local filmmaker Michael Fanter. The film celebrates the community’s history, landmarks, and the people who have shaped “The Town with the Giant Lemon.” The event will take place at The
GUHSD Board passes biased nonviolent discourse resolution and scaled-down limits on protestors
Printer-friendly versionBy Alexander J. Schorr Screenshot: Board President Gary Woods with Superintendent Kirsten Vital Brulte, defending their non-violence resolution in classrooms. “Trust is earned.” Jay Steiger, 2025 October 16, 2025 (El Cajon) — The Grossmont Union High School District Board passed an amended policy limiting protests outside board meetings, adopted a resolution providing religious exemptions in classrooms, and adopted a
Olaf Weighorst Museum announces 1st annual fashion show fundraiser: ”Boots and Belles: Fashion at the Wieggy”
Printer-friendly version East County News Service October 16, 2025 (El Cajon) – Olaf Wieghorst Museum and Western Heritage Center will host its first annual Fashion Show Fundraiser – “Boots and Belles: Fashion at the Wieggy” on November 8 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. The event will feature stunning designs of local artist and designer Dawn Hough Sebaugh, whose WALA Collection
Lassos & Lace brings vintage clothing and horseshoe art to Julian
Printer-friendly version By Heidi Hope If you are visiting the Julian area or a Julian local in need of affordable clothing, you cannot miss Kimmi Branson’s store where you can access vintage clothing for reasonable pricing that never goes out of style. Branson started this business getting inspired by her husband. She recalls, “My husband asked me: “What
Levin concerned over possible I-5 closures amid live-fire reports at Camp Pendleton event
Printer-friendly versionBy Elizabeth Ireland, Times of San Diego, a member of the San Diego Online News Association Photo: Camp Pendleton gate. (File photo courtesy of Camp Pendleton) October 16, 2025 (Camp Pendleton) – Rep. Mike Levin issued a statement Wednesday expressing concern over potential plans to close portions of Interstate 5 this weekend amid reports Navy ships will fire live ordnance over the freeway
13th annual Ramona Art, Wine & Music Festival set for Nov. 1
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service Oct. 15, 2025 (Ramona) — The 13th annual Ramona Art, Wine & Music Festival is heading to the Begent Ranch in Ramona on Saturday, Nov. 1. The popular event, set from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the ranch at 18528 Highland Valley Road, will include wines and craft beverage tastings, all-day live
Kaiser Permanente strike enters second day
Printer-friendly version By Paul Levikow Photo via Alliance of Healthcare Unions October 15, 2025 (San Diego) — A five-day strike by health care workers at Kaiser Permanente facilities entered its second day Wednesday affecting three hospitals in San Diego County. The strike is part of a walkout statewide in California and Hawaii involving 31,000 members of the United Nurses Associations of
Hear our interview: Santee filmmaker Natalie Camou de Zavaleta talks about #1Bad Dad, her short comedy airing at the San Diego Film Festival
Printer-friendly version By Heidi Hope October 8, 2025 (Santee) – Natalie Camou de Zavaleta is a Santee resident and award-winning filmmaker whose short comedy, #1 Bad Dad, will be showing at the San Diego Film Festival, which runs October 18 and 19. ECM interviewed her for our radio show on KNSJ, 89.1 FM on her film, which explores the theme
Advancing Healthy Communities: Inside the Bing and Underage Drinking Initiative’s 2025 Annual Status Report for County
Printer-friendly version By Seraphina Eberhardt, Program Director, Institute for Public Strategies July 1, 2025 (El Cajon) — Community leaders, prevention experts, and local advocates came together at Singing Hills Golf Club in El Cajon recently to talk about the realities of alcohol misuse in our neighborhoods. The San Diego County Binge and Underage Drinking Initiative (BUDI) released its
Health and Science Highlights
Printer-friendly versionJuly 14, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) — Our Health and Science Highlights provide cutting edge news that could impact your health and our future. HEALTH Major medical associations sue Kennedy, Trump administration health leaders for Covid-19 vaccine changes (CNN) Supreme Court preserves Obamacare coverage of preventive healthcare (Politico) Gates Foundation commits $1.6B for global vaccine effort after US
Walmart Recalling Ozark Stainless Steel Water Bottles
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Services July 13, 2025 (San Diego County) — Walmart stores are recalling metal water bottles that can cause blindness when lids snap up. The retailer recalled the Ozark Trail 64‑oz stainless steel insulated water bottle after lid incidents left two consumers blind. In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Walmart has issued
SDSU Swim & Dive Earns 7 Scholar/All-America Honors
Printer-friendly versionAztecs also named a CSCAA Scholar All-America Team for 19th consecutive semester East County News Services July 15, 2025 (San Diego) — Seven student-athletes from the San Diego State University swim and dive program were named College Swimming & Diving Coaches Association of AmericaScholar All-Americans for the 2024-25 campaign, as announced earlier this month by the College Swimming
SANDAG Looking for Community Input; Zoom Meeting on July 16
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Services July 13, 2025 (San Diego County) — The San Diego Association of Governments is hosting a special online presentation/feedback session on the 2025 Regional Plan for unincorporated communities in San Diego County. The meeting will be held via Zoom from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 16. Register here. The regional plan can
Residents Urge Council Members to Ban Sale of All Animals in Lemon Grove
Printer-friendly version Story and photo by Jennifer Sencion July 13, 2025 (Lemon Grove) — Dozens of concerned residents and animal advocates spoke at the Lemon Grove City Council meeting Tuesday night to demand a citywide ban on the retail sale of all animals. Sixteen of the nearly 20 speakers urged Councilmembers to expand on California Assembly Bill 485,
La Mesa Becomes First Local City Certified as Age-Friendly Employer, Helping Job Seekers Age 50 and Up
Printer-friendly version East County News Service July 13, 2025 (La Mesa) — The City of La Mesa has been designated as a Certified Age-Friendly Employer (CAFE) by the Age-Friendly Institute, becoming the first municipal government in San Diego County to receive the CAFE seal. This recognition highlights the City’s commitment to inclusive hiring practices and support for a multigenerational workforce.
You’re Invited! July 17 Feast at Himalayan Cuisine in La Mesa with East County Magazine’s Dining Club
Printer-friendly version You’re invited to East County Magazine’ s DIning Club feast at Himalayan Cuisine in La Mesa on Thursday, July 17 at 6:30 p.m. All proceeds benefit our local news reporting and our wildfire and emergency alerts! Everyone is welcome to attend. Himalayan Cuisine features delicious cuisine from Nepal, Tibet and India. Plus we’ll have a fabulous raffle with many great
La Mesa Grandmother Detained By Ice While Serving as Legal Observer for Immigrants at Courthouse
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery July 11, 2025 (La Mesa) – La Mesa resident Barbara Stone, a 71-year old U.S. citizen and courthouse observer at immigration proceedings, is free tonight after being detained by Immigrants and Customs agents (ICE) for eight hours without access to an attorney, according to her daughter and witnesses. Jessica Kort, posted a plea for help
What You Should Know About West Nile Virus Spread: County to Hold Program Saturday in La Mesa
Printer-friendly version Pesticide spraying set for July 14 and 15 in more La Mesa neighborhoods By Miriam Raftery July 11, 2025 (La Mesa) – Concern over West Nile virus in the La Mesa and Rolando areas has ramped up, after County Vector control tested nearly 2,000 mosquitos in 165 batches in these areas. West Nile virus found in 37 batches
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