August 26, 2011 (San Diego) 6:15 p.m. – Multiple agencies have received reports of a strong natural gas odor in coastal areas all the way from Imperial Beach in the South Bay to San Diego's North County, Incident Page Network reports.  An investigation is underway to find the source.

Story and photos by Miriam Raftery

August 8, 2011 (San Diego’s East County) – “What are You Waiting For? Birds are chirping, hiking trails beckon, a whiff of white sage drifts on the breeze. Night skies are so black the stars look 3D,” reads a new website launched by the Boulevard-Jacumba Revitalization Alliance at www.gosandiegobackcountry.org.

Story by Miriam Raftery; Photos by Mark and Miriam Raftery

August 2, 2011 (Alpine) -- "Oh, you're beautiful!" San Diego East County Chamber of Commerce President Scott Alevy exclaimed as his wife, Joanne, dished up a forkful of chicken.  But he wasn't complimenting her cooking. Instead, Alevy was admiring Raja--a 500-pound Bengal tiger that Joanne was feeding after winning a drawing at Lions, Tigers & Bears (LTB) in Alpine.

The Chamber hosted a fundraiser to benefit the big cat rescue facility last weekend, donating 100% of proceeds to help this worthy cause while providing a memorable experience for Chamber members. View our video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFhE9h-O0Uw

August 1, 2011 (San Diego) –Witnesses reported that a big-rig with an empty trailer for hauling automobiles zig-zagged across several lanes of traffic before plummeting over the side of I-15. The vehicle came to rest on Murphy Canyon Road in front of Wal-Mart at 6:40 a.m.

Whooping Cough Cases On Track To Hit 300 for Region

July 27, 2011 (San Diego)—Under a new law, middle and high school students have to show proof they’ve received a booster shot for tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis( also known as whooping cough) in order to enroll in school.

“Reduce then Produce” part of San Diego Summer of Energy Independence

July 26, 2011 (San Diego) — San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders announced today a new citywide program that provides special savings on home energy efficiency upgrades and solar energy installations. It's all part of the San Diego Summer of Energy Independence. The program is now under way; to participate, homeowners must sign up by October 20, 2011.

by Shannon Michael

July 21, 2011 (Washington D.C.) – Congresswoman Susan Davis (D-San Diego) has issued a press release blasting an energy spending bill that seeks to gut funding for clean energy, including biomass and solar programs. The bill would hit San Diego hard, since it has a large concentration of clean technology companies, Davis indicated. 

“San Diego has 767 clean technology companies and has become an innovation hub, especially in solar power, energy storage, and advanced biofuels,” said Davis. “If we’re going to remain competitive in the global economy, we must invest in clean energy innovation.” According to the San Diego Association of Governments, the algae energy section alone provides the region with 410 direct jobs and $108 million in economic activity each year.

July 4, 2011 (Poway) –Decked out with red and blue bunting on wooden railway bridges, water tower and gazebo/bandstand, Old Poway Park today looked like a scene straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting. The Old West-themed park exemplifies the best of Americana this 4th of July, compete with rides on the Baldwin steam train (watch for train robbers), a Dixieland jazz band, square dancing, quilting show/contest and craft show—plus two-acres of picnic grounds and family-oriented activities such as three-legged races.

June 19, 2011 (San Diego’s East County) – From La Mesa’s Flag Day Parade to the Wings Over Gillespie Air Show in El Cajon, East County displayed its patriotic pride.

At left, Dexter Levy drives a vintage auto in La Mesa's Flag Day Parade, heralding in the City's upcoming Centennial year of celebration. Photo by Kristin Kjaero.

June 1, 2011 (El Cajon)--Andrew Woodruff, author of The First Comprehensive San Diego Banknote Census, will share his knowledge of the history of banking and local banknotes on Friday, June 3, from 6:00 to 7:30. This is the fifth in a “Salon Series” of open houses at the Knox House Museum, offered by the El Cajon Historical Society in cooperation with El Cajon’s Community Development Corporation’s “First Friday” program. The series features speakers and musicians with unique talents and expertise to encourage conversations and discussions with members of the community.

May 20, 2011 (San Diego) -- Adults and kids alike can enjoy a wealth of free and fun activities this Saturday, May 21 during Explore Mission Trails Day at Mission Trails Regional Park.  Activiteis include guided nature walks, outdoor recreation demonstrations, rock climbing wall, crafts, face painting, a star-gazing party, free pony rides, as well as visits with live birds of prey, reptiles and other animals, and much more.

May 7 5K Run/walk will give public glimpse of new park lands—see it first in our ECM video adventure

By Miriam Raftery
Photos by Pam Wilmer
Video by Billy Ortiz

April 27, 2011 (Santee) – San Diego River Run is moving its 5K fun run/walk to the Walker Lakes property in Santee this year.  Participants will be the first members of the public to experience this site, which will soon become part of the San Diego River Trail, which is not yet open to the public.

East County Magazine’s Billy Ortiz got a special preview tour.  View his video adventure here.