East County Magazine
ALPINE EDUCATION FOUNDATION’S FALL FESTIVAL AT SUMMER’S PAST FARMS OCT. 16
Printer-friendly version October 15, 2010 (El Cajon) – A pumpkin patch, corn maze, farm animal exhibit, draft horse-drawn hay ride, and mobile video game truck are among the attractions at the Alpine Education Foundation’s Fall Festival at Summers Past Farms, 15602 Old Highway 80 in El Cajon. Admission to the event is free, though there is a nominal cost for
“PASSPORT THROUGH TIME” ROAD TRIP ON OLD HIGHWAYS 80 & 94 IS READY TO ROLL ON OCTOBER 16
Printer-friendly version October 11, 2010 (San Diego’s East County) – The public is invited to join in the fifth annual Passport Road Trip on Saturday, October 16th from 9:00 a.m. to 2 pm. The “cruise” will begin at the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum in Campo, motor along scenic Historic Highways 94 and 80, then end with special activities at a fundraising
MMMMM! SPRING VALLEY TAILGATE PARTY & BBQ FESTIVAL SUNDAY OCT. 17
Printer-friendly version October 15, 2010 (Spring Valley) – The first annual Spring Valley Tailgate & BBQ Festival will be hosted this Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 pm. In front of Cali Comfort Restaurant & Sports Bar. Troy Street will be closed down between Bancroft and Central avenues for the event, which includes BBQ samples, family activities, a children’s fun zone, street
OFF-ROAD EXPO ROLLS OUT AT PARKWAY PLAZA OCT. 23-24; MOTOCROSS CELEBRITIES TO APPEAR
Printer-friendly version October 14, 2010 (El Cajon ) – Off-road vehicles and celebrity motocross riders will be on hand Saturday and Sunday, October 23-24 at the Off-Road Expo at Westfield Parkway Plaza shopping mall in El Cajon. Off-road vehicles including Jeeps, ATVs, trucks, dirt bikes, buggies and more will be displayed by event partners Motoworld of El Cajon and

BOOK REVIEW: THE NEW JIM CROW: MASS INCARCERATION IN THE AGE OF COLORBLINDNESS, IS AN ENLIGHTENING READ
Printer-friendly version The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness, By Michelle Alexander (The New Press, New York, N.Y., 2010, 290 pages.) Book Review by Dennis Moore October 8, 2010 (San Diego) — Michelle Alexander, former director of the Racial Justice Project of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) in Northern California and a former
DEBATE AT SDSU OCT. 14 ON PROP 23; MEASURE WOULD ROLL BACK CLIMATE CHANGE PROTECTIONS
Printer-friendly version October 12, 2010 (San Diego) – Want to learn more about Prop 23, one of the most important environmental battles ever in California’s history? Prop 23 would overturn the landmark AB 32 measure that reduced greenhouse gas emissions and strengthened clean air standards. Students at San Diego State University are sponsoring a debate on Prop 23 to
“TREK ON THE WILD SIDE” OCT. 23 AT MISSION TRAILS TO RAISE FUNDS FOR CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS
Printer-friendly version October 11, 2010 (San Diego) — The Jarrett Meeker Foundation invites the public to its 23rd anniversary "Trek on the Wild Side" fundraising event on Saturday, October 23 from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Mission Trails Regional Park Visitor and Interpretive Center. The event, which costs $75, includes a guided nature walk, wine and cheese reception, barbecue dinner,
OLD WEST HARVEST FEST OCT. 22-24
Printer-friendly version October 9, 2010 (Boulevard) – Sacred Rocks Reserve RV park and campground in Boulevard invites you to come celebrate the Old West from Friday, October 22 through Sunday, October 24 at the annual Old West Harvest Fest. “Dress the whole family up in 1850s gear, such as prairie farmer, gambler, school marm, rancher, cowboy, cowgirl, schoolgirl, monk,
LIVE IN THE VINES: ORFILA PRESENTS JAZZ CONCERT
Printer-friendly version October 8, 2010 (San Pasqual) – Orfila Vineyards presents “Concert in the Vines” on October17 from 6:30 to 8:30. The concert features the Spirit Wind jazz ensemble with international artist Adrienne Nims. Tickets for the outdoor concert on a pavilion overlooking the vineyards cost $20 each (or $15 for Orfila Wine Lovers – OWL – members) and
HERITAGE OF THE AMERICAS MUSEUM HOSTS 5 SALES OCT. 22-23
Printer-friendly version Rummage, art, jewelry, fossils, gems and mineral offered for sale by museum patrons October 8, 2010 (El Cajon) – Over 300 members of Heritage of the Americas Museum have donated household goods to benefit the Museum. This giant sales will occur throughout the Museum with free admission and parking on Friday and Saturday, October 22-23 from 8 a.m.
TOYS COME TO LIFE IN “TIN” AT GROSSMONT COLLEGE’S STAGEHOUSE THEATRE OCT. 22 & 23
Printer-friendly version October 8, 2010 (El Cajon) — The Grossmont College Theatre Arts Department will present Tin, written and directed by Jerry Hager, October 22 & 23 at 7:30 p.m. and October 23 at 2:00 p.m. in the Stagehouse Theatre. All tickets for this event are $6 each. The story, Tin, is based on Hans Christian Andersen’s story The Steadfast
EL CAJON ANIMAL SHELTER HOSTS OPEN HOUSE & DOG COSTUME CONTEST OCT. 23
Printer-friendly version The public is invited to the Fourth Annual El Cajon Animal Shelter Open House on Saturday, October 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1275 North Marshall Avenue. This family Halloween- themed event includes displays and activities, such as photos of your pet for $5. A low-cost rabies clinic and micro chipping I.D.’s for pets will be
HALLOWEEN HIKE WITH A RANGER: LOOK FOR BATS OCT. 22
Printer-friendly version October 6, 2010 (Rancho San Diego) — Join Ranger Lisa, and BLM’s Biologist Joyce, a bat expert, in watching a short bat movie, and take a bat hike with bat-sensing equipment on October 22 from 6-7 p.m.. Families are encouraged to attend, and also get to know their local National Wildlife Refuge in Rancho San Diego–the San Diego National Wildlife
EXOTIC ESCAPADES AT LIONS, TIGERS & BEARS OCT. 16
Printer-friendly version October 6, 2010 (Alpine) – The San Diego Chapter of the American Association of Zoo Keepers invites you to Exotic Escapes, a fundraising event to benefit advancements in animal care as well as Lions, Tigers & Bears. Hosted by Lions, Tigers & Bears in Alpine on October 16 from 1-5 p.m., this unique event will feature animal presentations from
FACULTY ARTWORK ON DISPLAY AT GROSSMONT COLLEGE THROUGH OCT. 28
Printer-friendly version October 5, 2010 (El Cajon) — Artwork created by faculty members of the Grossmont College Art Department will be on display through Oct. 28 at the Hyde Art Gallery, located on campus. The public is invited to view the exhibition of approximately 55 pieces from 29 different art department instructors. According to Ben Aubert, Hyde Art Gallery curator,
SACRED ROCKS TROTS OUT A NEW ACTIVITY: HORSE CAMPING OCT. 15-17
Printer-friendly version October 3, 2010 (Boulevard) – Sacred Rocks campground and RV park in Boulevard is kicking off a new activity for its two- and four-legged friends: horse camping October 15-17. If you bring a horse, you camp for free! Or if you prefer, enjoy trail riding through beautiful backcountry scenery – all free for a day. Horse camps
OKTOBERFEST AT THE EL CAJON ELKS LODGE
Printer-friendly version October 2, 2010 (El Cajon) — The public is invited to an Oktoberfest celebration at the El Cajon Elks Lodge, 1400 East Washington Avenue in El Cajon, for the Elks’ annual Oktoberfest on October 16, 2010 from 11:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. There will be food and beverages, craft booths, German music to enjoy, a nail pounding contest and pitcher holding
CANCER RIP-OFF: NEW BOOK SERVES UP FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Printer-friendly version Cancer Rip-Off, We Are Victims of Mass Marketing, By Max Sturman, (Do It Naturally Foundation, 2010, 226 pages.) Book Review by Dennis Moore October 2, 2010 (San Diego) San Diego author Max Sturman has written a provocative new book, The Cancer Rip-Off. Sturman reveals links between nutrition and the causes of cancer—and raises probing questions
THE MISER OPENS OCT 7 AT GROSSMONT COLLEGE THEATRE; RUNS THROUGH OCT. 16
Printer-friendly version October 2, 2010 (El Cajon) — The Grossmont College Theatre Arts Department will present The Miser, directed by Henry J. Jordan, Oct 7-9 and 13-16 at 7:30 pm and Oct 9 and 16 at 2:00 pm in the Stagehouse Theatre. The Miser, written by the famed French playwright Molière, stands out as one of the great comic
DESERT STARGAZING CAMPOUT OCT. 9-10 IN BORREGO BADLANDS
Printer-friendly version Overnight campout offers stargazers a unique view of the desert—both terrestrial and celestial—from expert guides October 1, 2010 (Borrego Springs) – Noted astronomer and syndicated columnist Dennis Mammana, along with California Overland Desert Excursions, will hold an overnight campout under the clear, dark desert skies on Saturday/Sunday, October 9/10. Visible that weekend will be such celestial showpieces
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Support community news in the public interest! As nonprofit news, we rely on donations from the public to fund our reporting — not special interests. Please donate to sustain East County Magazine’s local reporting and/or wildfire alerts at https://www.eastcountymedia.org/donate to help us keep people safe and informed across our region.

California opens $2.5M in grants to reimagining State Parks through art and culture
East County News Service Feb. 10, 2026 (Sacramento) – Looking to literally bridge the gap between nature and the diverse communities of the state, California…

GUHSD Superintendent backs DA’s appeal against potential release of 2001 Santana shooter
Printer-friendly version East County News Service February 10, 2026 (Santee) — Grossmont Union High School District Superintendent Dr. Kirsten Vital Brulte has sent a letter to District Attorney Summer Stephan expressing full support for her appeal of the San Diego Superior Court’s decision to grant a recall and resentencing hearing for Charles “Andy” Williams, the perpetrator of the 2001 Santana

A decade of dogs: Fido Fest celebrates 10th anniversary
Photos and story by Karen Pearlman Feb. 10, 2026 (Santee) – It’s time to grab your canine friends and their leashes for the dogstravaganza that…

Next phase of Casa de Oro plan to be discussed at Feb. 26 workshop
East County News Service Feb. 10, 2026 (Casa de Oro) – The vision for a safer, more walkable Casa de Oro is moving from the…

Next phase of Casa de Oro plan to be discussed at Feb. 26 workshop
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service Feb. 10, 2026 (Casa de Oro) – The vision for a safer, more walkable Casa de Oro is moving from the drawing board to the engineering phase. San Diego County officials are holding a public workshop later this month, inviting residents and other interested stakeholders to review design elements for the transformation of the Campo

Casa de Oro has new “House of Gold” mural, thanks to ArtReach and Casa de Oro Alliance
East County News Service February 8, 2026 (Casa de Oro) — The Casa de Oro Alliance and ArtReach celebrated celebrate the completion of a vibrant…

La Mesa hosting Home Energy Fair in March
East County News Service February 5, 2026 (La Mesa) — With San Diego County residents navigating some of the highest utility rates in the nation,…

San Diego poet shares secrets and solace of a psychotherapist in The Best Sex I Never Had
Book by Susan Black Allen Reviewed by Pennell Paugh February 2, 2026 (San Diego) — San Diego resident and psychotherapist, Susan Black Allen has written…

A sweet and Grand (Avenue) time in Escondido with the Chocolate Festival
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service Jan. 22, 2026 (Escondido) – Wrappers will crinkle and corks will pop next month along Grand Avenue in Escondido. The Escondido Chocolate Festival is set for Feb 7, turning the city’s historic downtown into a literal moveable feast for those with a sweet tooth, a penchant for chocolate pairings and an appreciation for local flair. Hosted by

Fort Cross brings ‘Old Timey’ adventure to Julian region
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service Jan. 22, 2026 (Santa Ysabel) – A family farm in the Julian mountains is bringing back its popular guided tour that brings rustic adventure and recreation education to the outdoors. Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures will host its popular Farm Tour Adventure on Jan. 31, a high-energy, two-hour guided circuit at its farm, nestled in the scenic landscape

San Diego Automotive Museum to hold “Garage Night” fundraiser
Printer-friendly versionEvening event at new IGNITE Academy campus (see photo, left, showing students from the academy) will support automotive career training for local youth East County News Service Jan. 7, 2026 (Santee) — The San Diego Automotive Museum will host its first Garage Night from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23, at the recently opened IGNITE Academy campus, 8630 Argent St.

The Water Conservation Garden gears up for a blooming 2026
Printer-friendly version Photo of a buttefly at the Dorcas E. Utter Butterfly Pavilion at The Water Conservation Garden and story by Karen Pearlman Jan. 3, 2025 (Rancho San Diego) — The Water Conservation Garden, the 6-acre botanical showcase of sustainable landscaping and water-wise gardening adjacent to Cuyamaca College, has rooted out its slate of events for Winter and Spring 2026. The schedule includes educational opportunities,

New Moon fishing returns to Lake Jennings
Printer-friendly version East County News Service Jan. 3, 2025 (Lakeside) — San Diego County anglers should worm their way into their tackle boxes and grab their lanterns for one of the region’s most anticipated winter traditions. From 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, Lake Jennings will host its first “New Moon Fishing” event of the year, offering a

Light does not need permission to shine: San Diego leaders unite against hate at Hanukkah ‘Rally for Light’
Printer-friendly versionPhotos and story by Karen Pearlman Dec. 22, 2025 (San Diego) — Across the street from the calm San Diego Bay but amid a rising tide of global concern, some of San Diego County’s top elected officials, law enforcement and multi-faith leaders gathered Monday at the County Administration Center to send a singular message: Hate has no sanctuary in

Gifts and love from The Karen Cooper Foundation for dogs at the San Diego Humane Society
Printer-friendly versionPhoto from The Karen Cooper Foundation gift sharing for dogs courtesy San Diego Humane Society East County News Service Dec. 9, 2025 (San Diego) — Christmas arrived a few weeks early for more than 600 dogs at the San Diego Humane Society. Thanks to the generosity of The Karen Cooper Foundation, on Tuesday, Dec. 9, every dog under the SDHS’ care

Down to the Bone: A Missing Family’s Murder and the Elusive Quest for Justice
Printer-friendly version Book by Caitlin Rother Review by Paul Levikow December 2, 2025 (San Diego) – San Diego-based New York Times bestselling author Caitlin Rother takes on the mysterious disappearance of the McStay family of four, who were last seen in their Fallbrook home in February, 2010. Joseph, Summer, and their two sons, Gianni and Joseph Jr. were killed and

East County Magazine’s “Feasting and Merrymaking” holiday party December 7
Printer-friendly version December 1, 2025 (La Mesa) – ‘Tis the season to be jolly—so East County Magazine is hosting a “feasting and merrymaking” holiday party this Sunday, December 7 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at a private Mt. Helix home. The party is open to all subscribers—and subscriptions to our e-newsletter is free! Subscribe. Cost is just $20 and

Destination East County: Dreamy December events to remember
Printer-friendly version East County News Service Listen to an audio version of this story. November 30, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) – ‘Tis the season to be jolly—and there’s plenty of merry events coming up in December across East County! Festivities include a stage production of “’‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” in La Mesa, Pine Valley’s Camp Christmas holiday lighting

Artists from St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center to show off skills
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service Nov. 28, 2025 (El Cajon) — The holiday spirit is already brightening up downtown El Cajon, with St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center and its Sophie’s Gallery again central to the vibe. Next month, St. Madeleine Sophie’s is inviting the community to meet and discover the creative talents of some of its artists while giving

Operation Masquerade: A Rent Beacham Mystery
Printer-friendly versionNovel by Larry M. Edwards Reviewed by Pennell Paugh November 28, 2025 (San Diego) — Larry Edwards, a San Diego resident, has written another Rent Beacham mystery. San Diego journalist Rent receives information about a cold-case homicide in Washington State. His investigation leads him to investigate links between illegal disposal of hazardous waste from a San Diego boatyard in
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Support community news in the public interest! As nonprofit news, we rely on donations from the public to fund our reporting — not special interests. Please donate to sustain East County Magazine’s local reporting and/or wildfire alerts at https://www.eastcountymedia.org/donate to help us keep people safe and informed across our region.
East County Magazine

Tree Lighting Ceremony & Santa’s arrival at Parkway Plaza on November 21
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service November 11, 2025 (El Cajon) — Parkway Plaza will light up the night with its beloved Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa’s Arrival to kick off the

Racing turkeys stampede at Oasis Camel Dairy in Ramona
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service November 9, 2025 (Ramona) – This is not a turkey trot. The Wild West Turkey Stampede returns November 15, 28, 29 and 30 at the
BalletCenter Studios bringing a twist on a holiday classic
Printer-friendly version“Clara & the Nutcracker Soldier” Comes to the Joan B. Kroc Theatre East County News Service Nov. 8, 2025 (San Diego) — A fresh take on the

Christmas with the wild animals at Lions Tigers & Bears
Printer-friendly versionEast County News Service Nov. 18, 2025 (Alpine) — Lions Tigers & Bears, San Diego County’s lone accredited animal sanctuary is getting ready for the winter holidays. The

Marinelli Brothers Circus brings big top shows to El Cajon Nov. 12 – Dec. 5
Printer-friendly version East County News Service November 6, 2025 (El Cajon) – A brand new circus is coming to San Diego’s East County. The Marinelli Brothers Circus brings its