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Senior resource fair coming to Grossmont Healthcare District on April 23
Printer-friendly version East County News Service April 20, 2026 (La Mesa) — Health advocates from across San Diego County will provide critical resources through the upcoming “Spring into Healthy Living 2026: Senior Conference & Resource Fair” on Thursday, April 23 at Grossmont Healthcare District headquarters. Hosted by the San Diego
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
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
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
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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School trustee Bazzo to run for 40th District state Senate seat in 2026
Printer-friendly versionBy Chris Jennewein and Ken Stone, Times of San Diego, a member of the San Diego Online News Association Photo: SDUSD Trustee Sabrina Bazzo. (File photo by Chris Stone/Times of San Diego) September 22, 2025 (San Diego) – San Diego Unified School District Trustee Sabrina Bazzo has announced that she will run for state Senate in the
Listen now! Our radio shows from April-June 2025 are now online
Printer-friendly version September 22, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) — Our radio shows from April through June 2025 are now online. Highlights included interviews with immigration lawyer Nora Milner, El Cajon marketing manager Chris Berg, and Congressional candidate Curt Morrison, as well as coverage of top news issues such as controversies in the Grossmont Union High School District, protests and
East County Eater: Happy Hour at Casa Gabriela features authentic Mexican cuisine, elevated
Printer-friendly versionBy Paul Levikow Photo, left: mural of talented chef Gabriela “Gaby” Lopez September 20, 2025 (La Mesa) – Casa Gabriela in the La Mesa Village has a first-rate, affordable Happy Hour that features unique, scrumptious food full of flavor, and a list of drink specials including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic varieties. The food is not just delicious, it’s presented
Trump ramps up bullying and censorship efforts against media
Printer-friendly versionBy G. A. McNeeley September 20, 2025 (Washington D.C.) — Since taking office in January, President Donald Trump has been waging an aggressive campaign against the media, unlike any in modern U.S. history, according to PBS News. Those efforts have included lawsuits against major media outlets, threats to yank broadcast licenses of networks that cover him unfavorably, calling
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
Destination East County: October outings
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service September 17, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) — October brings Oktoberfest celebrations in La Mesa and El Cajon and Borrego Days in the desert, as well as an array of spooky events such as a haunted circus, haunted trails in county parks, a Day of the Dead celebration, Hauntfest on Main in El Cajon, a
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
From the Fire Chief’s Corner: it’s Fall Prevention Awareness Month
Printer-friendly versionBy Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna September 19, 2025 (San Diego) – Each September, as the seasons shift and leaves begin to fall, we turn our attention to a quieter but critical risk, falls among older adults. Across the nation, Fall Prevention Awareness Month reminds us that staying upright isn’t just about balance, it’s about dignity, independence, and community care.
IRAN MISSILES FIRED AT U.S. AIR BASE IN QATAR; TERROR ATTACKS IN U.S. THREATENED
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DURING PRIDE MONTH, TRANSGENDER PEOPLE FIGHT FOR JUSTICE
Printer-friendly versionBy Suzanne Potter, California News Service June 23, 2025 (San Diego) — June is Pride Month and transgender advocates are speaking out, seeking equal recognition in society and in the workplace. The U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled President Donald Trump can enforce a ban on transgender people in the military while litigation proceeds. Martha Gomez, director of workforce development
SEVEN VOTE CENTERS NOW OPEN FOR SUPERVISORIAL SPECIAL ELECTION
Printer-friendly version Voting has started for those in the County of San Diego’s First Supervisorial District (Photo courtesy County of San Diego) By Tracy DeFore, County of San Diego Communications Office Jun. 20, 2025 (San Diego County) — If you live in the County of San Diego’s First Supervisorial District, you can cast your ballot early at any one
SANTEE READIES FOR GOLF COURSE HOUSING PROJECT
Printer-friendly version By Mike Allen June 23, 2025 (Santee) — While golfing and expansive courses are diminishing nationally, the owner of Santee’s only golf course is pushing a plan that would convert the current 1950s facility to a modern country club resort including 242 new houses, a 42-room hotel, a redesigned course, and other amenities. The project that
TRUMP CAN KEEP TROOPS IN LA FOR NOW, APPEALS COURT RULES
Printer-friendly version This story was originally published by CalMatters. Sign up for their newsletters. by Mikhail Zinshteyn Photo: National Guard in Los Angeles, via U.S. Northern Command June 23, 2025 (Los Angeles) — President Trump had a legitimate interest in protecting federal employees when he deployed the National Guard to Los Angeles, an appeals court ruled. President Donald Trump can continue to control
ENVIRONMENTALISTS SOUND ALARM OVER BUDGET AMENDMENT TO SELL OFF PUBLIC LANDS—INCLUDING FOREST LANDS IN EAST COUNTY
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery Image: Lands proposed for sale in Rep. Darrell Issa’s district June 18, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) – Senate Republicans have slipped language into the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” budget reconciliation measure that would allow sale of up to 250 million acres of federal public lands in 11 states including California. The Wilderness Society
U.S. BOMBS IRAN’S NUCLEAR FACILITIES
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery Image: Screenshot from BBC video of Iranian nuclear facility bombing by U.S. June 21, 2025 (Washington D.C.) – The U.S. has bombed three Iranian nuclear sites, President Donald Trump announced tonight on social media. The BBC confirmed the action, posting video of smoke rising above an Iranian nuclear site. The action, done without Congressional approval,
TRUMP’S BUDGET BILL WILL NEGATIVELY AFFECT MEDICAID USERS
Printer-friendly version President Donald Trump’s “Big, Beautiful Bill” will also give tax breaks to the wealthiest of Americans; Democrats and some Republicans raise objections By G. A. McNeeley June 21, 2025 (Washington D.C.) – Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S. Dakota) faces backlash from Republicans, over the latest version of President Donald Trump’s budget bill, which ignores Republican senators’ concerns
IRAN-ISRAEL ESCALATION INVOLVES THE US NOW
Printer-friendly version Netanyahu has decided to wage war against Iran— specifically designed to sabotage United States international diplomacy By Alexander J Schorr Friday June 20, 2025 – Under the current leadership of the Trump administration, the United States risks military involvement with Iran at the behest of Benjamin Netanyahu. One may have hoped that the international community could be working
ICE AGENTS SCATTER AS SD BISHOP PHAM, CLERGY VISIT IMMIGRATION COURT
Printer-friendly versionSan Diego Bishop Michael Pham (left) waits to enter the Edward J. Schwartz Federal Building on World Refugee Day. (Photo by Chris Stone/Times of San Diego) By Ken Stone, Times of San Diego, a member of the San Diego Online News Association June 20, 2025 (San Diego) — Eight immigration courts line the fourth-floor hallway of the downtown Edward J.
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