The show featured clothing created from paintings, illustrating the power of art in fashion

Story and photos by Heidi Hope

November 23, 2025 (El Cajon) -- Boots and Belles, a fashion show at the Olaf Wieghorst Museum in El Cajon on Nov.8, showcased creative fashions by designer Dawn Hough Sebaugh, owner of Wear Art, Live Art (WALA). The dresses and other colorful designs stem from her original abstract paintings, displaying a compelling connection between art and fashion—transforming art into stylish outfits through creativity and uniqueness. 

By Karen Pearlman and Miriam Raftery

Overview: For many San Diegans, Interstate 15 heading into North County is the proverbial dividing line that separates popular coastal communities from the far less hectic but equally captivating inland areas.

CA Attorney General is investigating the shooting

East County News Service

November 21, 2025 (Alpine, CA) – A concerned neighbor called 911 to request a wellness check on her neighbor on November 5,  after she found his door partially open and he did not answer. The incident ended tragically. Sheriff’s deputies fatally shot the resident, 72-year-old Robert Edmund Liddell,  after they saw him holding what appeared to be a gun, but was later determined to be a replica weapon.

The Sheriff’s Department has released video of the shooting. Viewer discretion is advised.  

“Thrifting is a treasure hunt. You never know what you’ll find.” – Darlene Cossio,  Goodwill Director of Marketing and Communications in La Mesa

By Heidi Hope 

November 20, 2025 (La Mesa) – In today’s tight economy, with many people struggling financially, one of the best ways to stretch your dollars is by shopping at thrift stores. At Goodwill, you will  find deep discounts on second-hand clothing and accessories such as shoes, handbags and backpacks—from wardrobe basics to stylish outfits. 

East County News Service

November 19, 2025 (Santee) -- A reckless driving suspect struck multiple vehicles while leading Sheriff’s deputies on a pursuit from Santee to San Diego on November 18^th.

East County News Service

November 17, 2025 (La Mesa) -- "'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse." But wait. A mouse is stirring - because Santa missed his house last year. Lamplighter’s Theatre in La Mesa will present “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” featuring the wild adventures of a mouse, an elf, and a spunky little girl who visit the North Pole and just won't take no for an answer.

Performances run Nov. 29 through Dec. 14.

East County News Service

November 17, 2025 (Julian) – Ebeneezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future will come to life in Julian, where the Julian Theater Company presents Charles Dickens’ holiday classic play,  “A Christmas Carol.”

East County News Service

November 17, 2025 (El Cajon) — ‘Tis the season to enjoy “Jingles and Jam” with Rebecca Jam, who was named Breakout Artist of Year by the Smooth Jazz Network and “Debut Artist of the Year” by JazzTrax, both in 2022. She earned a San Diego Music Award in 2023 “Best R&B/Funk/Soul Album” for her debut solo album, A Shade of Jade.

East County News Service

November 17, 2025 (Pine Valley) – Each Friday, Saturday and Sunday night from Nov. 21 through Dec. 23, Pine Valley Camp  Christmas provides enchanting family entertainment. Hundreds of thousands of lights bring the forest to life, timed to the beat of holiday music hourly from 6-9 p.m. including the finale, Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus.” There’s also a dancing water show on the half hour, plus many other activities to enjoy.

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.

Some native plants have already begun to show up in Glorietta Canyon, like this chinchweed that’s growing on the pad where the previous owner of the property had his trailer. Photo courtesy Anza Borrego Foundation

East County News Service

Nov. 18, 2025 (Borrego Springs) -- A nearly two-decade conservation effort has culminated in a major victory for the Anza-Borrego Desert.

The Anza-Borrego Foundation in late October shared that it has successfully acquired the 40-acre Glorietta Canyon property, a crucial parcel of land on the western edge of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, securing its protection from future development.