November 3, 2012 (San Diego)– With the holiday season approaching, San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) announced that it will provide more than $600,000 in charitable donations to non-profit organizations in San Diego and Orange counties as part of its continuing commitment to help local underserved communities in need.
Animal rescue operation announces push for volunteers, interns and grant writers to help continue mission of compassion to save animals in need. Sanctuary serves neglected population of animals.
November 3, 2012 (La Mesa) – The Helping Hands Animal Sanctuary of La Mesa announced on October 23 a unique holiday volunteer drive to help continue its mission of providing help to a neglected population of animals in need. The volunteer drive will seek individuals who are willing to assist with the rescue of dogs, cats, birds and other small animals in neighborhoods that may be overlooked by larger animal shelters. The drive will begin immediately and continue through the end of the year.
November 2, 2012 (Washington D.C.) – Portable generators made by Champion Power Equipment have been recalled by the company due to a fire hazard, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced today. The generators were sold exclusively at Costco Stores nationwide from December 2011 to July 2012 for about $699.
Fuel can leak from the generator’s carburetor, posing a fire hazard. There have been 11 reports of fuel leaking, including eight reports of generators catching fire and two of property damage.
November 2, 2012 (Boulevard) – Thanks to our generous readers who helped raise several thousand dollars plus supplies to benefit 11 families who lost homes in the recent Shockey fire.
“So many wonderful people are out there with wonderful caring hearts,” Lorrie Ostrander, who organized a fundraising event for fire survivors told ECM. Some fire surivors are now placed in old trailers donated and others are on the Campo reservation. "A home is what we make of it and for now they are thankful for life,” said Ostrander, adding that items needed most now are cooking utensils, curtains, towels, bedding, dishes and toys.
She also offered this “wish list” for the kids for Chirstmas: a girl's bike for a 10 year old, sports items for a boy, 9, who lost his baseball bat, ball, football and basketball, and a motorized toy truck for a 2-year-old whose treasured truck was lost to the flames.
Doug Deane and Jim Kelly confirm Grand Jury investigation; education leaders clash on Alpine High and bond money issues
By Miriam Raftery
November 2, 2012 (San Diego’s East County) – A prominent education leader has stepped forward to defend GUHSD board member Priscilla Schreiber and candidate Jim Weaver from attacks made by board member Jim Kelly in an editorial published in East County Magazine.
November 2, 2012 (San Diego’s East County) – San Diego’s local Republican Congressmen Brian Bilbray, Duncan Hunter and Darrell Issa voted for the Paul Ryan budget which would have deeply reduced emergency response and preparedness to disasters such as Hurricane Sandy and local wildfires. An analysis from Third Way says that the Ryan-Bilbray budget “would set the clock back on disaster preparation to the days before Hurricane Katrina.”
Mitt Romney, in a primary debate, called disaster relief “immoral” and said he would privatize FEMA. Following Hurricane Sandy, he has sought to blur his stance, though his running mate’s budget would also have radically cut federal aid and hampered states’ abilities to respond when disasters strike.
Proceeds to Benefit Hospital’s Future Heart and Vascular Center
November 2, 2012 La Mesa). – The Grossmont Hospital Foundation hosts its 27th Annual Gala on Saturday, November 3, 2012, at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina. The Gala is the largest fundraising event of the year benefiting Sharp Grossmont Hospital’s services and programs. Proceeds will support a new, state-of-the-art heart and vascular center at the hospital.
Hundreds of drugs recalled, ranging from antibiotics to blood thinners, pain prescriptions to pediatric medications recalled
Update: “Sharp Grossmont Hospital and any other entity of Sharp HealthCare does not purchase products from Ameridose, the pharmaceutical company that is linked to the drug recall,” spokesman Bruce Hartman has informed ECM.
October 31, 2012 (Washington D.C.)--The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced today that Ameridose, LLC, based in Westborough, Mass., is voluntarily recalling all of its unexpired products due to serious sterility concerns. The move follows 54 cases of fungal meningitis linked to steroid injections.
However, the drug recall is much broader, including hundreds of drugs inoral and inhalable forms as well as injectibles. The list includes many commonly used medications such as Ibuprofin, Acetaminophen, Lidocaine, Penicillin, Vancomycin, Oxytocin, Morphine, Vancomycin and Heparin, to name just a few.
View a complete list of all products subject to this recall here with more information at www.ameridose.com. Products from Ameridose can be identified by markings that indicate Ameridose by name or by its company logo. Despite the recall, doctors and healthcare professional have NOT been urged by the FDA to followup with patients who received these drugs, so check the list carefully to see if medications you have received may be on the list. Scroll down for more information.
October 31, 2012 (San Diego’s East County) -- With two cities (El Cajon and La Mesa) celebrating their centennials, much attention has been focused on our region’s past of late. But just how much do you know about East County’s colorful history? Take our quiz below to test your knowledge—and learn some fascinating facts.
Clean tech/green tech research and manufacturing jobs for East County? A local hearing on energy impacts? It could happen–now that Davis’ district has expanded east
By Miriam Raftery and Janis Mork
October 29, 2012 (San Diego’s East County) – Many East County residents may be surprised to open their ballots and see that they’re now in Congresswoman Susan Davis’ district instead of Congressman Duncan Hunter’s. With redistricting, Davis’ 53rd district now includes La Mesa and most of El Cajon, along with San Carlos, Allied Gardens, Del Cerro, Rolando, Lemon Grove, Spring Valley, Bonita, large portions of San Diego and Chula Vista. View map.
Just who is Susan Davis and what might her representation mean for people in East County? ECM sat down for an exclusive interview with her last week.
November 1, 2012 (San Diego) – SaveMissionTrails.org is organizing a Stop the Power Plant rally & hike at Cowles Mountain on Nov. 3 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. The meeting place is the Cowles Mountain staging area at the intersection of Navajo Rd. and Golfcrest. Attendees are asked to wear orange and bring (or borrow) a sign.
October 31, 2012 (La Mesa) – Last year, La Mesa Council voted 3 to 2 against declaring La Mesa a “Fair Trade Town.” But on October 12, Mayor Art Madrid signed a commendation letter posted on the Fair Trade La Mesa website. Under a rule change by the national Fair Trade Towns USA group, La Mesa has now been granted the designation despite Council's objection, drawing both controversy and praise.
November 1, 2012 (San Diego)- Democrat R.J. Hernandez is running against Republican Brian Maienschein for the open seat in the 77th Assembly this November. The redrawn district includes 4S Ranch, Poway, Rancho Bernardo, Kearny Mesa, and Mira Mesa among other areas. View a map of the district. ECM asked both candidates for interviews; Maienschein did not respond. Below is our exclusive interview with Hernandez .
His focus is on job creation, budget reform and education.
November1, 2012 -- (San Diego’s East County) – ECM World Watch helps you be an informed citizen about important issues globally and nationally. As part of our commitment to reflecting all voices and views, we include links to a wide variety of news sources representing a broad spectrum of political, religious, and social views. Top world and U.S. headlines include:
U.S.
Sandy blamed for 157 deaths (CNN)
Impact by state: States pick up pieces as Sandy fades (CNN)
Hurricane Sandy blows election off course (Reuters)
Obama on storm recovery: We willnot quit until this is done (CNN)
Romney’s challenge: How to campaign after Sandy (CBS)
Romney ties to voting machine company that could decide the election causing concerns (Forbes)
Romney’s lax regulation may have fueled meningitis outbreak (Salon)
Did U.S. go toofar in secret surveillance of citizens? Case heads to Supreme Court (Christian Science Monitor)
U.S. sues Bank America for mortgage fraud (NPR)
Citing food safety concerns, Kroger calls it quits on sprouts (NPR)
Bloomberg Backs Obama, Citing Fallout From Storm
WORLD
Death knell for wind farms: Enough is enough, says Energy Minister in Britain (UK Telegraph)
In world first, biggest refugee camp gets university (Christian Science Monitor)
In vitro fertilization increases risk of birth defects (Jerusalem Post)
AP interview: Japan nuke plant water worries rise (U-T San Diego)
Did Israel just blow up an Iranian weapons factory in Sudan? (Christian Science Monitor)
Death toll tops 100 in ethnic strife in Myanmar (NPR)
Business Mixer, Political Mixer, and Festivities Focus on Restoring American Dream
November 4, 2012 (San Diego)--Celebrate being American at a fun-filled two day festival at historic Tuna Harbor Park (700 North Harbor Drive) in San Diego, CA on November 5 and 6 from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. The Freedom Festival is dedicated to connecting people to resources for establishing our original values as Americans, bringing together pioneers dedicated to the promise of the “American Dream” and the prospect of growing businesses to promote the American economy and jobs.
November 1, 2012 (San Diego) – Sempra Energy Foundation today pledged $50,000 in disaster-relief assistance funds to East Coast storm victims. In support of Sempra Energy companies’ employee giving efforts, the Foundation also will be matching up to an additional $50,000 in employee donations, bringing the total potential donation to $150,000 by the Foundation and company employees.
November 1, 2012 (San Diego)--This election is a battle between two very different philosophies of government, especially as it relates to domestic affairs. One that embraces “united we stand” and a role of federal government that is being played out at this moment in the Northeast in the aftermath of hurricane Sandy. The Governors of thirteen states are desperate for the coordination skills of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the support of President Obama as they face this horrendous disaster.
This is the Democratic Party philosophy that government is necessary for the enforcement of laws, civil order and preserving equal access to basic human needs and civil rights.
November 1, 2012 (Jacumba)--Much talk is being bandied about especially by conservatives on how there could possibly be undecided voters out there. After all, there hasn’t been such a clear choice between the two parties in years (goes their argument). The implication is that we are stupid or uninformed. In reality, it isn’t as simple as that.
Like many Independents, I have a love/hate relationship with election years. As someone who isn’t tied to either major political party, I am like the un-attached and solo guest at a Valentine party, relegated to the sidelines and watching the enthusiastic bonding of committed couples with envy.
November 1, 2012 (San Diego) –Responding to complaints from neighbors of two organic farms in Escondido and Jacumba, County Supervisors on October 30 approved a plan to order farmers to reduce eye gnat infestations. The plan adopted stops short of allowing the county to order pesticide use, but does give the county the right to order other abatement measures if voluntary efforts don’t work.
November 1, 2012 -- (San Diego’s East County)--East County Roundup highlights top stories of interest to East County and San Diego’s inland regions, published in other media. This week’s top “Roundup” headlines include:
LOCAL/REGIONAL
The end is near (Turko Files helps bring end to Alpine Blvd. repaving nightmare)
The Mayoral candidate scorecard, general election edition (Voice of San Diego)
For Filner, it’s always sunny in San Diego (Voice of San Diego)
Filner’s travel becomes campaign issue(UT San Diego)
The 2012 elections: vital issues that affect Latinos (San Diego Free Press)
Supervisors could end $1,000 limit on contributions (KPBS)
Helix Highlander band takes first place (La Mesa Today)
Tesla stores challenge auto dealerships (U-T San Diego)
ACLU sues over photo restrictions at border (Sacramento Bee)
Spring Valley grocery worker is poster child for New York Times story (La Mesa Patch)
From Sex Dolls to Staged Garbage: The Election's Worst Campaign Dirt
STATE
Debunked: 6 lies that Biotech and Big Food are telling voters about Prop 37 (San Diego Free Press)
CA Charter schools grow to over 1,000 for 2012-13 (U-T San Diego)
Court says Arizona group must provide information in CA election (Sacramento Bee)
November 1, 2012 (Poway)—A hiker who collapsed on a trail on the Poway side of Mount Woodson has been declared dead, Lt. J.T. Faulkner with the San Diego Sheriff’s office informed ECM.
A friend who was hiking with the victim called for help at 11:04 a.m. “Our unit got there at 11:14 and the Fire Department was already there,” Lt. Faulkner told ECM. The victim was found about halfway up a trail. Copter 12 and ASTREA were called in to assist.
November 1, 2012 (San Diego’s East County) – Want to shape up for the holidays? Lauren Schmitt, Healthy Eating and Training (www.heatforhealth.com), offers these helpful tips.
By Bill Weaver, candidate, Grossmont Union High School Board
November 2, 2012 (San Diego’s East County)--Jim Kelly is a blue ribbon fibber. Jim Kelly says, "It is time to answer these misleading, politically-motivated attacks."
I'll say it is--there is only one politically motivated attack agent. It is Jim Kelly who for years has been officially the recruiter for the out of touch extremist right local party that is in charge of ruining the conservative name with its radical right agenda. There is zero validity to Jim Kelly's rebuttal.
By Jim Kelly, Grossmont Union High School District Governing Board Member
October 30, 2012 (San Diego’s East County)--I appreciate the East County Magazine’s coverage of the Grossmont Union High School election and a Grand Jury investigation into the issue of using bond money for a new high school in Alpine. As a GUHSD Governing Board Member for the last 10 years, I have crucial information regarding these subjects.
CPSC, FEMA and USFA Warn About Deadly Dangers After Hurricane Sandy Passes
October 30, 2012 (Washington D.C.) -- For those of our readers with relatives in the path of Hurricane Sandy, here is some potentially life-saving advice from three federal agencies. These tips are also applicable to surviving other disasters, such as wildfires and earthquakes.
October 31, 2012 (Santa Ysabel) – The bodies of a couple believed to be in their 80s were found Monday evening in a home in the 25200 block of Mesa Grande Road in Santa Ysabel. The Medical Examiner’s office has ruled the woman’s death a homicide resulting from a single gunshot wound, however the man’s death has been found to be from natural causes due to heart failure.
October 31, 2012 (San Diego) – Grossmont College dance students present ‘Breaking Boundaries’, November 1 -3 at 7:30 p.m. at the Joan B. Kroc Theatre, 6611 University Ave., San Diego. The concert is an annual student choreographed event that will showcase a variety of dance genres, including modern dance, ballet, jazz and hip-hop.
Admission tickets at the door are $13 per person (cash only). For more information visit www.grossmont.edu/dance, or call the Dance Department at 644-7766.
October 31, 2012 (El Cajon)— At the October 23rd Council meeting, Councilmember Wells proposed that the El Cajon City Council authorize the City Manager to expend General Fund revenues as a 50 percent match with the dealerships for the costs of creating an “El Cajon Auto Dealership Association,” not to exceed the amount of $10,000.
The City Council voted 4-0 to support this new partnership.
October 31, 2012 (Sa Diego) -- Life in a conflict zone can be traumatizing, and moving to the U.S. doesn’t make it go away. In order to develop better services for the local East African community, we need your help.
If you are 18 years or older, please come at one of the times listed below and complete a questionnaire about trauma. Each participant will be given $15.00.
October 29, 2012 (San Diego’s East County) – Major newspapers across the nation are making their endorsements for president. To date, of the 100 largest newspapers in the U.S., 34 have endorsed President Barack Obama and 28 recommended Mitt Romney to their readers. Though the President leads in total endorsements, Romney has the edge among newspapers in swing states, notably the Des Moines Register in Iowa.
November 3, 2012 (San Diego)– With the holiday season approaching, San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) announced that it will provide more than $600,000 in charitable donations to non-profit organizations in San Diego and Orange counties as part of its continuing commitment to help local underserved communities in need. 
Animal rescue operation announces push for volunteers, interns and grant writers to help continue mission of compassion to save animals in need. Sanctuary serves neglected population of animals.
November 2, 2012 (Washington D.C.) – Portable generators made by Champion Power Equipment have been recalled by the company due to a fire hazard, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced today. The generators were sold exclusively at Costco Stores nationwide from December 2011 to July 2012 for about $699.
November 2, 2012 (Boulevard) – Thanks to our generous readers who helped raise several thousand dollars plus supplies to benefit 11 families who lost homes in the recent Shockey fire.
Deane and Jim Kelly confirm Grand Jury investigation; education leaders clash on Alpine High and bond money issues
November 2, 2012 (San Diego’s East County) – San Diego’s local Republican Congressmen Brian Bilbray, Duncan Hunter and Darrell Issa voted for the Paul Ryan budget which would have deeply reduced emergency response and preparedness to disasters such as Hurricane Sandy and local wildfires. An analysis from 
Proceeds to Benefit Hospital’s Future Heart and Vascular Center
am Raftery and Janis Mork
November 1, 2012 (San Diego) – SaveMissionTrails.org is organizing a Stop the Power Plant rally & hike at Cowles Mountain on Nov. 3 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. The meeting place is the Cowles Mountain staging area at the intersection of Navajo Rd. and Golfcrest. Attendees are asked to wear orange and bring (or borrow) a sign.
October 31, 2012 (La Mesa) – Last year, La Mesa Council 
By Janis Mork
November 4, 2012 (San Diego)--Celebrate being American at a fun-filled two day festival at historic Tuna Harbor Park (700 North Harbor Drive) in San Diego, CA on November 5 and 6 from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. The Freedom Festival is dedicated to connecting people to resources for establishing our original values as Americans, bringing together pioneers dedicated to the promise of the “American Dream” and the prospect of growing businesses to promote the American economy and jobs.
November 1, 2012 (San Diego) – 
ovember 1, 2012 (San Diego)--This election is a battle between two very different philosophies of government, especially as it relates to domestic affairs. One that embraces “united we stand” and a role of federal government that is being played out at this moment in the Northeast in the aftermath of hurricane Sandy. The Governors of thirteen states are desperate for the coordination skills of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the support of President Obama as they face this horrendous disaster.
By Danielle Cook
November 1, 2012 (San Diego) –Responding to complaints from neighbors of two organic farms in Escondido and Jacumba, County Supervisors on October 30 approved a plan to order farmers to reduce eye gnat infestations. The plan adopted stops short of allowing the county to order pesticide use, but does give the county the right to order other abatement measures if voluntary efforts don’t work.
November 1, 2012 (Poway)—A hiker who collapsed on a trail on the Poway side of Mount Woodson has been declared dead, Lt. J.T. Faulkner with the San Diego Sheriff’s office informed ECM.
By Lauren Schmitt, MS, RD, CPT, 
By Jim Kelly, Grossmont Union High School District Governing Board Member
CPSC, FEMA and USFA Warn About Deadly Dangers After Hurricane Sandy Passes
October 31, 2012 (Santa Ysabel) – The bodies of a couple believed to be in their 80s were found Monday evening in a home in the 25200 block of Mesa Grande Road in Santa Ysabel. The Medical Examiner’s office has ruled the woman’s death a homicide resulting from a single gunshot wound, however the man’s death has been found to be from natural causes due to heart failure.
October 31, 2012 (San Diego) – Grossmont College dance students present ‘Breaking Boundaries’, November 1 -3 at 7:30 p.m. at the Joan B. Kroc Theatre, 6611 University Ave., San Diego. The concert is an annual student choreographed event that will showcase a variety of dance genres, including modern dance, ballet, jazz and hip-hop.
October 31, 2012 (El Cajon)— At the October 23rd Council meeting, Councilmember Wells proposed that the El Cajon City Council authorize the City Manager to expend General Fund revenues as a 50 percent match with the dealerships for the costs of creating an “El Cajon Auto Dealership Association,” not to exceed the amount of $10,000. 
(Ethiopia, Somalia, Burundi, Congo, Sudan, South Sudan, Rwanda, Eritrea, Uganda, Kenya, Liberia)
By Miriam Raftery
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