ECM exclusive interview
By Miriam Raftery
Video by Jack Winemiller

September 11, 2011 (San Diego) – Congressman and Mayoral candidate Bob Filner spoke with ECM at last weekend's "Big Blue BBQ" for East County Democrats.

September 12, 2011 (San Diego) – Thunderstorms and rains are likely to strike San Diego County tomorrow, with the highest likelihood of storms in East County’s mountain and desert areas. These storms have the potential to produce hail, frequent lightning, locally heavy rainfall and gusty winds, the National Weather Service predicts.

Tribe says “Thank You” to community

September 12, 2011 (Alpine) – Viejas Casino, a premier Southern California gaming, dining and entertainment destination, is celebrating its 20th Anniversary by offering the public a free meal at the award-winning Harvest Buffet. That’s a free meal – no strings attached – from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, September 13.

September 12, 2011 (Ramona) –A semi-truck hauling a fully loaded grain trailer has overturned on Highway 78 and Rancho Sante Fe Court. A SIG alert has been issued. As of 3:31 p.m., the CHP website reports Highway 78 will be shut down for at least two hours between Julian Road and 3 Road to cleanup the roadway.

There are no reported injuries in the accident.

By Miriam Raftery

September 12, 2011 (San Diego’s East County) – Consumers who want a no-cost option to opt out of having wireless smart meters on their homes are urged to attend a September 14 hearing in San Francisco.

September 11, 2011 (El Cajon)-- Assemblyman Brian Jones will be the featured speaker at this month's  Cajon Valley Republican Women Federated meeting.  The event will be held on Tuesday, September 20th at 7:00 a.m. at Coco's Restaurant, 1025 Fletcher Parkway in El Cajon. 

Members of the public are invited attend.

September 11, 2011 (San Diego) – San Diego State University (SDSU) now offers text and e-mail emergency alerts for students, employees and their families, as well as community members in the College area. The alerts cover critical situations on campus.

September 11, 2011 (Lemon Grove)—Chula Vista Police have issued a bulletin asking the public to be on the lookout for Francisco Ramirez, 34. The Lemon Grove resident is suspected of abducting his son, 11, and two daughters, one 9 years old, the other 1 year 9 months. He may have taken them to Mexico in a silver GMC Yukon sport utility vehicle.

By Brian Lafferty

September 10, 2011 (San Diego’s East County) – We have received several inquiries from readers seeking more details on procedures to follow to stay safe during boil-water advisories issued for several communities.  The following advice is offered by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

This link has details for consumers as well as links for medical professionals and more:  http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/crypto/health_professionals/bwa/index.html . Below is the information for consumers including how long to boil water,  special instructions for children and those with immune-compromised health, and directions on how to flush pipes and appliances after the boil water order is lifted. 

Boil waters are in effect locally through Sunday at the following locations due to pump failures during the blackout:

September 10, 2011 (Valley Center)—English high teas have become among the most popular events served up at Keys Creek Lavender Farm in Valley Center.   Savor refreshing teas and delicacies such as tea sandwiches, chicken herbs de Provence, Devonshire cream,  fresh fruit, lavender scones and more at two upcoming high teas scheduled for  September 16th at 2:00 p.m. and September 17th at 2:00 p.m. Reserve your spot by clicking on the dates above.