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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
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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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CHIVALRY RIDES ON AT 6TH ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT OF THE PHOENIX
Printer-friendly versionBy Janis Mork October 29, 2012 (Poway)- “We thought the fires would defeat us, but instead we have risen, phoenix-like, from the flames,” English competitor Dominic Sewell declared back in 2007. The Witch Creek fire had just ravaged our region, but organizers decided that the tournament would go on. Hence a name for the event was born—and it’s been
SOAPMAKING STUDIO IN LEMON GROVE OFFERS CLASSES, SUPPLIES AND EXPERT INSTRUCTION
Printer-friendly version“It is empowering to create a useful commodity appreciated by family, friends and customers.” – Kerri Mixon By Caprice Harrison, Editorial Assistant for East County Magazine October 27, 2012 (Lemon Grove) — Ask Kerri Mixon about making soap. You will be met with a smile and 16th-generation soapmaking expertise. Mixon is the owner, administrator, lead instructor and artisan of
FROM THE CHIEFS CORNER: CHANGE YOUR CLOCKS—AND CHANGE YOUR SMOKE DETECTOR BATTERIES
Printer-friendly versionBy Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna October 29, 2012 (San Diego’s East County)–It’s time to change our clocks this coming Sunday November 4th “back” for daylight savings and when we do that it’s a good time to change our smoke detector batteries and check their condition says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna. Roughly two-thirds of home fire deaths occurred in homes without
USC DORNSIFE/LOS ANGELES TIMES POLL: CALIFORNIANS SUPPORT STRONG LAW/BORDER ENFORCEMENT ON ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION, BUT HAVE A SOFT SPOT FOR DREAM-ERS
Printer-friendly version2 out of 3 Californians support work permits for children who were brought to U.S. illegally and have since completed high school or military service; Majority also support content of Arizona’s S.B. 1070. October 29, 2012 — California voters support tough law enforcement policies on illegal immigration in large numbers, but more than two-thirds of Californians are willing to
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR NON-CITIZENS, CITIZENS AND AB540 STUDENTS
Printer-friendly versionBy Bill Weaver October 29, 2012 (San Diego) –San Diego is home to immigrants and refugees from around the world. The Mano A Mano Foundation has provided the following list of scholarships available to non-citizens as well as citizens and AB 540 students. AB540 is a California bill passed on October 12, 2001 that allows undocumented students who meet certain
LOOKING FOR FOREVER HOMES- SHELTER DOGS TO DREAM DOGS
Printer-friendly versionOctober 30, 2012 (Alpine) — Peanut is a mini-poodle; only 7 pounds at 7 months old and loves all people and dogs. His favorite thing to do is to be cradled in your arms like a baby, but is also game to play if you are. He bonds very closely and loves to follow me around outside or lie
SDG&E ENCOURAGES CUSTOMERS TO PREPARE FOR WINTER HEATING SEASON
Printer-friendly versionOctober 29, 2012 (San Diego) – With the holidays and cooler weather right around the corner, San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) is helping customers prepare for the winter season by offering easy tips on how to stay safe and keep warm while also saving money. “With most home heating systems operated by gas, now is a good time
POLITICAL REFLECTIONS: THE MEDIA DEBATE
Printer-friendly versionBy Mark Gabrish Conlan I’m writing this article — both a review of the latest Presidential debate between Barack Obama and Mitt Romney at Hofstra University in New York State October 16 and an overview of how all three of the debates so far have been covered by the media — starting 10 minutes after the October 16 debate
NEARLY 1 MILLION ATTENDED TIJUANA INNOVADORA
Printer-friendly version October 21, 2012 (Tijuana)–Tijuana Innovadora ended with a joyous celebration Sunday night that had thousands dancing in the city’s streets. “This conference showed, particularly to our young people, that they can do it!,” exclaimed the event´s co-founder and president, José Galicot hours before the event ended. “Sí se puede!” A total of 918,446 attended the 11-day conference, according
VIEJAS CASINO HONORED FOR COMMITMENT TO EMPLOYING ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES
Printer-friendly versionOctober 29, 2012 (Alpine) – Viejas Casino, Southern California’s premier gaming, dining and entertainment destination, has been named Business Partner of the Year by Partnerships with Industry (PWI). The honor was announced at PWI’s annual awards event held on Saturday, October 20. “For seven years Viejas Casino has been providing adults with intellectual, developmental and other disabilities the opportunity
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.
PASSAGES: BILLIE JO JANNEN, CHAIR OF CAMPO-LAKE MORENA PLANNING GROUP AND FORMER ALPINE SUN EDITOR
Printer-friendly version By Miriam Raftery June 19, 2025 (Campo) — Billie Jo Jannen, an award-winning journalist and chair of the Campo-Lake Morena Community Planning Group from 2013-2025, died May 27 of cancer at age 69. Jannen was a powerful voice for backcountry residents. She won awards for investigative reporting and spent nearly 25 years as a reporter and editor covering
EL CAJON HOMELESS COUNT FINDINGS ADJUSTED IN RESPONSE TO CITY’S COMPLAINT
Printer-friendly versionBy Miriam Raftery File photo: Homeless outreach workers offer help to an unsheltered person in an El Cajon park June 19, 2025 (El Cajon) – The Regional Task Force on Homelessness has acknowledged that its 2025 Point in Time Count overstated the number of homeless people in the city of El Cajon. The report included 24 homeless individuals who
INVESTIGATION INTO CAUSE OF HOUSE FIRE IN RAMONA THAT DAMAGED THREE PROPERTIES
Printer-friendly version East County News Service June 19, 2025 (Ramona) – An abandoned home in the 1600 block of Casteel Lane, Ramona caught fire around 6 p.m. yesterday, quickly spreading to two neighboring properties. The blaze caused extensive damage to the home as well as outbuildings, fences and brush on adjacent properties. Firefighters with CAL FIRE/San Diego County were able
SOME EVACUATIONS LIFTED IN MONTE FIRE
Printer-friendly versionEast County Wildfire and Emergency Alerts Update June 20: The #MonteFire has burned over 1,000 acres and is 65% contained. Image by Josh Stotler, East County Magazine: Helicopter scoops water to fight fire on day one of #MonteFire June 18, 2025 (Lakeside)– On day three of the #MonteFire, 976 acres have burned and the wildfire fire is 25% containment.
EL CAJON WOMAN, 53, DIES IN CUSTODY AT SANTEE DETENTION FACILITY
Printer-friendly version East County News Service June 19,2025 (Santee) – A woman who died at the Las Colinas Detention and Reentry Facility in Santee on June 13 has been identified as Linda Bagby, 53, of El Cajon. This is the sixth in-custody death this year at detention facilities in San Diego County. Deputies were serving dinner when they found Bagby
MAYOR GLORIA VETOES KEY BUDGET ITEMS, CUTTING ACCESS TO SOME LAKES , FUNDS FOR BRUSH CLEARING, STORMWATER PROJECTS AND MORE
Printer-friendly version By Karen Pearlman June 18, 2025 (San Diego County) – A little over a week after the San Diego City Council voted 7-2 to continue to fund consistent public access to city-owned and operated lakes and reservoirs, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria wielded his line-item veto power to cut access at some lakes, though Lakes Murray and Miramar
KALASHOS FAIL TO SHOW UP TO BEGIN JAIL SENTENCE; NEW ARREST WARRANTS ISSUED
Printer-friendly version By Karen Pearlman File photo by Miriam Raftery June 18, 2025 (El Cajon) – Just weeks after they stood in San Diego Superior Court for a trial about code enforcement issues at their Fletcher Hills home, former El Cajon City Councilman Bessmon “Ben” Kalasho and his wife, Jessica Deddeh Kalasho, skipped out on a scheduled June 9 court
MONTE FIRE SCORCHES 350 ACRES, 2 FIREFIGHTERS HOSPITALIZED
Printer-friendly versionUpdate: June 18, 2025 6:45 p.m. The fire has burned 858 acres and is 25% contained. Update: June 18, 2025 8 a.m.– The fire is now 400 acres and 20% contained. Story and photos by: Josh Stotler View video June 17, 2025 (Lakeside) – Cal Fire has ordered several firefighting aircraft to be ready to fly at 8:00 a.m. and
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