Communities

WELCOME, RURAL RESIDENTS!

Our Rural section covers most San Diego County's inland communities south of I-8  to the border including Alpine, Barrett Junction, Boulevard, Campo, Deerhorn Valley, Dehesa, Dulzura,  Jamul,  Japatul, Lake Morena, Otay,  Potrero, and Spring Valley. 


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WELCOME, MOUNTAIN DWELLERS!

Our Mountain Living section covers the mountain communities in San Diego's East County north of I-8 including Aguanga, Cuyamaca, Descanso, Guatay, Julian, Mount Laguna, Pine Valley, Ranchita, Ramona, Santa Ysabel, Shelter Valley and Warner Springs.


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WELCOME, DESERT DENIZENS!

Our deserts section covers the Anza Borrego Desert State Park and the communities of Borrego Springs, Ocotillo, Ocotillo Wells and Jacumba.


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WELCOME, SANTEE & LAKESIDE RESIDENTS!


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"Bolder Than Most" rapist back in state hospital for alleged parole violation

East County News Service

Photo: Alvin Ray Quarles. (File photo courtesy of California Department of Corrections)

November 15, 2025 (Borrego Springs) — Alvin Ray Quarles, a sexually violent sex offender who had been temporarily placed in a Borrego Springs home, has been arrested on an alleged parole violation. In Superior Court on Friday, Quarles, 63, pleaded not guilty to the parole violation, which was not disclosed.


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Saps at Sea present 'End of Year Film Fun'

East County News Service

November 15, 2025 (El Cajon) - The Saps at Sea, the San Diego chapter of the Sons of the Desert, the Laurel and Hardy fan organization, invite you to close out their 47th year with some End of Year Film Fun in El Cajon on Saturday, December 6.


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Long-awaited victory: Glorietta Canyon saved after two-decade quest

Glorietta Canyon photo courtesy AllTrails.com

East County News Service

Nov. 14, 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.

The acquisition marks one of the most significant milestones of the year for ABF and is seen as a long-awaited chance for a damaged, yet cherished, landscape to finally heal.

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Board of Supervisors to discuss land use on Nov. 19

East County News Service
 
Nov. 14, 2025 (San Diego County) -- The San Diego County Board of Supervisors is continuing a critical conversation about the future of housing and development in the unincorporated areas of the county, including Spring Valley, Lakeside and Casa de Oro.
 
The Board of Supervisors will discuss land use legislations at its meeting at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19. The meeting is in person at the County Administration Center and can be accessed as well online.
 
County staff will be presenting information to set the stage for major decisions coming in the 2026-27 fiscal year that will affect where and how new homes and buildings are built.

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National aging summit calls on community leaders to present

Dec. 5 is deadline for proposals to inform local aging service agencies
 
East County News Service
 
Nov. 14, 2025 (San Diego County) -- Regional input is being sought for a national conference happening in San Diego next July.
 
Because the most critical insights and best practices in community-based care typically come from the local level, the USAging Conference and Tradeshow, "Answers on Aging," is actively seeking presenters with ground-level experience that can shape the future of support for older adults and caregivers across the nation.
 
Scheduled for July 18 through July 21, 2026, at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, the national summit is not only a conference it's also a vital training ground as the country's largest annual gathering of local aging service leaders. The event is hosted by USAging, the national voice for Area Agencies on Aging and tribal aging programs, and is expected to draw more than 1,400 leaders who are dedicated to ensuring health, independence and dignity.

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The Vault, La Mesa’s new resale boutique, helps you dress well on a budget and go green

By Heidi Hope 

November 13, 2025 (La Mesa) – If you’re looking for men’s and women’s vintage and contemporary fashions, you’ll find a treasure trove of resale clothing and accessories at The Vault.  Run by Michelle La Bruno, The Vault is located at the corner of Lemon Avenue and Nebo Drive in La Mesa’s downtown village, tucked behind the train locomotive museum in the storefront formerly occupied by Unique Boutique.


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Sheriff searches for teen wanted on weapons violations after shooting in Poway field: body army and gun parts in home

East County News Service

November 13, 2025 (Poway) – San Diego County Sheriff seeks public help to locate Cameron Johnson, 18, on weapons violations.

On Nov. 11, deputies from the Sheriff’s station in Poway responded to multiple calls reporting a man shooting a rifle in an open field near Hidden Valley Drive and Birch Lane in Poway. Johnson, who was dressed in military-style camouflage fatigue, fled from deputies. The officers found a rifle with no serial number in the brush nearby.


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Hear our interview with La Mesa director Elisha Cecil, whose movie “Amber” is screening at San Diego Film Week Nov. 14

By Heidi Hope 

November 12, 2025 (La Mesa) - Elisha Cecil is a filmmaker, screenwriter and director from La Mesa. His films have been featured in many major film festivals, including Eyes of Shadow and Amber, a short horror film showing at the San Diego Film Week  on November 14. 

East County Magazine interviewed Cecil for our radio show, which aired on KNSJ 89.1 FM.  You can listen to the full audio here, or scroll down for highlights.

“I’ve always been into movies ever since I was a kid," Cecil said. "I also got really into writing because of my dad’s background in English Literature. From writing, the deeper you get into films, you start to realize you don’t have a lot of control over what you put on paper as a writer, so I had to learn to direct to see what I put on paper comes to the screen."

Audio: 

Download: Audio icon Arts&Music-ElishaCecil-Filmmaker.mp3

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Alpine Pet Food & Supply drive set for Dec. 6

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.


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Our Guide to San Diego’s Rural and Railways Region

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.


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Tree Lighting Ceremony & Santa’s arrival at Parkway Plaza on November 21

East County News Service

 

November 11, 2025 (El Cajon) -- Parkway Plaza will light up the night with its beloved Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa’s Arrival to kick off the holidays on Friday, November 21, followed by a series of events and activities through the holiday season. For the main event, a mischievous green Christmas thief will join Santa to light up the Parkway Plaza Christmas Tree and mark the start of the holiday season, followed by photo opportunities at the tree with the Grinch and visits with Santa, so make sure to bring a wish list.

 

From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.,  guests can celebrate the holidays with a festive holiday craft station by El Cajon’s Parks & Recreation, balloon twisting, face painting, giveaways, and photo opportunities. Live entertainment will also be in full swing with a captivating circus performance from the critically acclaimed Marinelli’s Circus and festive show from Dance & Arts Studios. 


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Racing turkeys stampede at Oasis Camel Dairy in Ramona

East County News Service

November 9, 2025 (Ramona) – This is not a turkey trot. The Wild West Turkey Stampede returns November 15, 28, 29 and 30 at the Oasis Camel Dairy in Ramona.


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Photo of the Week: Beaver moon

East County News Service

November 9, 2025 (Mt. Helix) — Dawn Sebaugh snapped this picture of the “Beaver Moon” on November 5,   The November full moon was dubbed “Beaver Moon”  because it’s the time when beavers are most active building their lodges for winter, and when the fur trading season was at its peak. The name has its origins in Native American and Colonial American traditions.

This shot was taken looking west from her home’s deck towards Rancho San Diego and El Cajon.

 


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November CalFresh/SNAP benefits being delivered to local beneficiaries

Thanks to San Diego County and State actions
 
East County News Service
 
Nov. 7, 2025 (San Diego County) -- San Diego CalFresh/SNAP beneficiaries are starting to see their full November benefits loaded on to their EBT cards.
 
CalFresh is the federal food assistance program also known as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also commonly referred to as Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) or Food Stamps.
 
The process began late Thursday after a federal court ruled in favor of restoring full benefits during the government shutdown, according to the State.
 
The United States Department of Agriculture has announced that it will comply with the court order to fully fund SNAP benefits for November, and the state is stepping up to assure no gaps in coverage for Californians.

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Christmas with the wild animals at Lions Tigers & Bears

East County News Service
 
Nov. 6, 2025 (Alpine) -- Lions Tigers & Bears, San Diego County’s lone accredited animal sanctuary is getting ready for the winter holidays.
 
The nonprofit organization is holding Christmas with the Animals Fundraiser in December at its 142-acre site in Alpine.
 
The event will include gift-giving, holiday lights and music, and will support ongoing care for the more than 60 animals that live at Lions Tigers & Bears.
 
 
The Dec. 13 event is set for 2:30 to 7:30 p.m, with a special feeding of the animals to happen between 3 and 4 p.m.

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Caltrans reduces parking in front of Descanso Junction and nearby businesses despite community concerns

By Paul Levikow

Photo:  new parking configuration in front of Descanso Junction eliminated two-thirds of spaces and left no disabled parking access.  Photos courtesy of Descanso Junction and Rett Lawrence, Mountain Views and News

November 6, 2025 (Descanso) – The California Department of Transportation removed several parking spaces in front of Descanso Junction Restaurant and nearby businesses in late October, amounting to approximately a two-thirds reduction.


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Marinelli Brothers Circus brings big top shows to El Cajon Nov. 12 - Dec. 5

 

East County News Service

November 6, 2025 (El Cajon) – A brand new circus is coming to San Diego’s East County. The Marinelli Brothers Circus brings its brand-new production titled “A New Experience”, bringing its signature mix of magic, heart-pounding excitement, and family fun to Parkway Plaza November 12 – December 5.

An entertaining outing for families, the Marinelli Bros Circus is not your average night under the Big Top. Blending classic circus tradition with fresh, modern energy, this show offers jaw-dropping acts, death-defying stunts, and laugh-out-loud comedy for all ages.


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Driver who injured child in El Cajon faces charges of felony hit-and run, evading police

East County News Service

November 5, 2025 (El Cajon) – A judge has set bail at $1.5 million for Dani Korkis, 35 of El Cajon,who fled the scene after hitting a 12-year-old boy with his SUV, causing serious injury.

After his arrest, Korkis was initially released on a lower bail but failed to show up at an October 28  court hearing on a separate charge of evading police back in July.He was charged with reckless driving in July and again in August, before the Oct. 22 accident on Ballantyne Street that left the 12-year-old boy with a head injury that left him in a coma initially, ABC 10 News reports, though his condition is reportedly improving. The boy also suffered missing teeth and is wearing a wire to hold his remaining teeth, according to NBC 7.

Korkis now faces additional charges including felony hit-and-run.


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Larry Cohen named new County Treasurer-Tax Collector

 

 

East County News Service
 
Nov. 5, 2025 (San Diego County) -- San Diego County has a new Treasurer-Tax Collector to fill the void of Dan McAllister, who retired earlier this year.
 
The County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday appointed Larry Cohen to fill the position of Treasurer-Tax Collector for McAllister who retired Aug. 2.
 
Cohen will serve until the current San Diego County Treasurer-Tax Collector term ends Jan. 4, 2027. An election will determine a successor for the following four-year term.

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Community input sought for Lakeside's transportation future

East County News Service
 
Nov. 4, 2025 (Lakeside) – The County of San Diego Planning & Development Services (PDS) is inviting all Lakeside residents and community stakeholders to a public meeting to discuss local transportation needs and potential solutions.
 
The meeting, set for 5:30 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 18 at the Lakeside Community Center, is part of the "Lakeside Mobility Options Via Efficient Solutions" (MOVES) program, a component of the County’s broader Community Based Transportation Program.

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La Mesa Tree Lighting Ceremony Coming Nov. 7

East County News Service
 
Nov. 4, 2025 (La Mesa) -- La Mesa City Council member Laura Lothian and The Cohn Restaurant Group are partnering to transform a tree at a local downtown La Mesa restaurant into a Christmas tree with a special star on top.
 
Casa Gabriela will be the site of the towering 80-foot tall Christmas tree, with a white and blue four-foot star on top dedicated to fallen La Mesa Police Officer Lauren Craven, who died in the line of duty last month.
 

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Man arrested for domestic violence and felony sex crime warrant after SWAT standoff at El Cajon motel

East County News Service

Nov. 4, 2025 (El Cajon) – El Cajon Police officers on Sunday rescued a woman who called 911 on Sunday afternoon to report that her husband had assaulted and strangle her, holding her hostage in an El Cajon motel room located at 1368 East Main St.

After police evacuated the victim, the suspect, later identified as Ruben Castro, 44, barricaded himself inside the motel room.


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DNA identifies 1998 El Cajon homicide victim as Alicia Ledezma Sanchez, born in 1968

East County News Service

Photo:  rendering from ECPD depicts victim, reconstructed based on her skull

November 4, 2025 (El Cajon) — Twenty-seven years after her body was found partially decomposed in a ravine off Avocado in El Cajon, Alicia Ledezma Sanchez has been identified as the homicide victim, thanks to a match to DNA provided by her son. The case is a testament to the persistence of El Cajon Police Department’s detectives and volunteer Cold Case Unit, which persevered over decades to solve the case.


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Pumpkin Smash event turns Halloween waste into environmental wins

Local students join I Love A Clean San Diego to divert organic waste from landfills

Story and photo via I Love a Clean San Diego

 

November 4, 2025 (Spring Valley)  — On Monday, November 3, students at Sweetwater Springs Elementary School participated in a unique post-Halloween event aimed at reducing organic waste and promoting environmental education. Hosted by I Love A Clean San Diego (ILACSD) in partnership with the County of San Diego and WM, the Pumpkin Smash event gave students the opportunity to responsibly dispose of their Halloween pumpkins while learning about composting and sustainability.


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Grossmont and Cuyamaca College military and veteran students find connection and support

The colleges offer award-winning programs that celebrate and honor veterans

Photo:  Grossmont College student veterans

Source:  Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District

November 4, 2025 (El Cajon) - Navy veteran Isaiah Nailon had one clear goal in mind when he enrolled at Cuyamaca College in the spring of 2018: taking the first step toward earning a bachelor’s degree.


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