Photo of Loveland Reservoir by Ostan Patton

By Karen Pearlman

Dec. 9, 2025 (Alpine) – Sweetwater Authority’s plan to leave Loveland Reservoir with at least 25 percent of its water capacity during the most recent transfer of water into the Sweetwater Reservoir has not gone as originally planned, as shared with East County Magazine on Dec. 5.

Sweetwater Authority (SWA), the special district that oversees Loveland Reservoir and Sweetwater Reservoir as well as the Sweetwater Dam, reports on its website that the reservoir has dipped down to 21.2 percent of total capacity (as of 8 a.m. Dec. 9) before the water transfer was stopped just after 3:30 p.m. Dec. 9.

SWA manages local water from Sweetwater and Loveland reservoirs, pumps from aquifers like the San Diego Formation and uses a desalination plant for brackish river water.

By Miriam Raftery

December 3, 2025 (Alpine)—Paul Nichols, aka Retro One-Man Band will provide lively entertainment on the patio at Mike Hess Brewing in Alpine this Friday, December 5, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

He performs on fingerstyle and slide guitar, vocals, harmonicas, and foot percussion as well as signing in a wide variety of styles, from blues, roots, and roadhouse boogie to Latin, classics and instrumental jazz.  He’s performed at many venues, including East County Magazine events over the years.

“They meant to hurt us, but they’re hurting our kids.” –Jason Balisteri, Mount Miguel history teacher and former teacher-librarian

By Armando Rasing II

Photos, left:  protest signs at GUHSD board meeting when the majority voted to fire all teacher-librarians.

November 25, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) - The 2025-26 school year marks the first school year that the Grossmont Union High School District doesn’t have a teacher-librarian for any of its nine schools, following mass layoffs. 

A journey through history, nature and hidden gems

By Karen Pearlman

Overview

“Rural and railways” is a phrase that captures the essence of San Diego’s county’s southeast region. It is in these parts that the rustic charm of open landscapes coexists with the enduring legacy of railroads -- a dual identity that defines the area’s character and appeal.

The Rural and Railways region extends from the Interstate 8 corridor south to the Mexican border, from the San Diego-Imperial County line in the east to the communities of Spring Valley, Dulzura, and Jamul at the western boundary.

Taking the roads less traveled, you can enjoy leisurely drives through rolling hills and small towns. Visitors can ride aboard a historic railway, savor local wines, stop by museums filled with railway and Western memorabilia, try their luck at Native American casinos, or take a hike through scenic parks, wilderness areas, and wildlife preserves.

East County News Service

Nov. 11, 2025 (Alpine) -- Pet lovers have the chance to help local animals in need next month at the Alpine Pet Food & Supply Drive, hosted by the Viejas Community Market.

The Alpine Pet Food & Supply Drive is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 6 at the Viejas Community Market, located at the Viejas Pit Stop.

The drive aims to gather a wide range of supplies to benefit local pets and organizers are seeking both food and various essential items to assist animals and the organizations that care for them.

By Diana Griffin

October 8, 2025 (Crest) -- Every year, devastating wildfires sweep across the United States, threatening homes, landscapes, and lives. As more people live in wildfire-prone areas, communities like Crest are stepping up to reduce risk and strengthen resilience.

By Miriam Raftery

October 6, 2025 (Descanso) – A goat trapped between boulders on Mizpah Lane in Descanso has been freed, thanks to the efforts of Cal Fire/San Diego Fire crews.