Events

East County Events

SAN DIEGO COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE TO PARTICIPATE IN NATIONAL NIGHT OUT AGAINST CRIME AUGUST 5

East County News Service

August 1, 2025 (San Diego) - Sheriff's stations and substations across the county will be hosting family-friendly community events to take a stand against crime on Tuesday, August 5.

National Night Out is an annual event that promotes law enforcement-community partnership and neighborhood camaraderie.

Meet your local Sheriff's Deputies and receive public safety resources. Crime Prevention Specialists will share tips on how to keep your families safe. Get to know members of our Sheriff's specialized and volunteer units such as Sheriff's Bomb/Arson, K-9 Unit and the Search and Rescue (SAR) Unit. Many events will feature giveaways and more.
 
There's a National Night Out event near you (see the list below). To download a flyer with a list of all events, click here. 

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OUR EAST COUNTY DINING CLUB INVITES YOU TO ZEST WINE BISTRO AUGUST 21

You’re invited to our East County Dining Club special event at Zest Wine Bistro in Lemon Grove on Thursday, August 21 at 6:30  p.m.

20% of dinner proceeds and100% of raffle proceeds will benefit East County Magazine’s reporting and wildfire alerts.

Savor gourmet charcuterie served family-style (gourmet cheeses and deli meats, olives, crostini and fresh fruits) paired with three wines (red, white, and rosé).

This exclusive event is expected to sell out quickly, since seating is limited, so we4 recommend RSVPing as soon as possible to reserve seats!  The deadline to RSVP is August 18, if seats are still available. 

RSVP to: info@eastcountymedia.org with your name and number of guests (with guest names if possible).


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JACUMBIA FEST BRINGS AFRO-COLUMBIAN RHYTHMS TO JACUMBA AUG. 30

East County News Service

July 29, 2025 (Jacumba Hot Springs) -- Bad Vibes Good Friends and Jacumba Hot Springs Hotel will present Jacumbia Fest  on August 30 starting at 5 p.m.— a one-night-only celebration of Afro-Colombian rhythms, traditional and psychedelic cumbia from Colombia, Mexico and USA.


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BEACH BOYS’ AL JARDINE AND HIS PET SOUNDS BAND WILL ROCK THE MAGNOLIA NOV. 22

East County News Service

 

July 29, 2025 (El Cajon) – Tickets are now on sale for a Nov. 22 concert at the Magnolia in El Cajon by Al Jardine, one of the original Beach Boys members, and his Pet Sounds band.  The evening will be a tribute to the late Brian Wilson, Beach Boys founder. The evening will include performances of classic Beach Boys’ hits such as “California Girls,” “I Get Around,” Sloop John B,” Surfin’ USA,” and “Fun, Fun, Fun”—music that helped define the California sounds of summer. 


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RAMONA COUNTRY FAIR BRINGS SUMMERTIME FUN AUG. 1-3

By Regina Elling

Carnival rides are a big part of the fun at Ramona Country Fair. Photo by Regina Elling

July 25, 2025 (Ramona) -- Visitors to the Ramona Country Fair, set for Friday, Aug. 1 through Sunday, Aug. 3, can expect to enjoy amusement rides, vendor booths, carnival food, a variety of musical acts, a car show, a dog demonstration, equestrian events, a corn hole tournament and lots of old-fashioned fun and entertainment. There is even expanded shade and cool zones to help beat the heat.

“The importance of the Fair is multi-faceted,” said Karen Domnitz, Ramona Chamber of Commerce vice president. “It’s for people to enjoy, it brings people to Ramona and is the largest event and fundraiser put on by our Chamber of Commerce.”

Presented by the Ramona Chamber of Commerce, admission to the Fair is free. Single day parking passes are $20; unlimited, $25.


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DESTINATION EAST COUNTY: HOT AUGUST NIGHTS BRING LATE SUMMER CELEBRATIONS

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By Miriam Raftery

July 24, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) – Hot August nights and late summer days bring some of East County’s most iconic events. 

This month’s hot happenings include the Ramona Country Fair, San Diego Dark Sky Fest in Julian, A Gatsby-themed Mt. Helix Food and Wine Festival celebrating the Mt. Helix Park’s centennial, a country music pool party at Sycuan, Santee’s summer concerts,  La Mesa’s classic car show, Julian Mountain brew fest, Macy Gray in concert at the Magnolia, Grammy Award-winning Alabama Shakes at SDSU, Julian Mountain Brew Fest, open farm days at the Oaisis Camel Dairy,  and the new Jacumbia Fest brings Afro-Columbian vibes to Jacumba Hot Springs.

Scroll down for details on these events and more.


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JULIAN MOUNTAIN BREWFEST SET FOR AUG. 23

East County News Service

July 24, 2025 (Julian) – The Julian Chamber of Commerce is inviting the public to savor the Julian Mountain Brewfest at Nickel Beer Company at 1485 Hollow Glen Road from noon to 4 p.m.,  Saturday, Aug. 23.

A $25 ticket includes eight tastings, a commemorative cup and live music by the Sun Valley String Band.


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MT. HELIX PARK FOUNDATION FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL AUG. 16 FEATURES GATSBY THEME

 
By Karen Pearlman 
Miriam  Raftery also contributed to this report


Last year's Mt. Helix Park Foundation Food & Wine Festival event was a 
hit. (Photo courtesy Mt. Helix Park Foundation)
 
July 24, 2025 (La Mesa) – A privately owned "public" park and nature preserve with an outdoor ampitheater toward the top, East County is fortunate Mount Helix Park is open 365 days a year and has no entrance fee. Thousands annually hike its trails, sit by the 35-foot stone cross at the  top and take in sweeping views across San Diego County. 
 
But keeping the six-acre park -- celebrating its 100th year in 2025 -- open for free comes at a cost for its operations and upkeep. 
 
With that in mind, the nonprofit Mt. Helix Foundation. which owns and maintains the park grounds, is hosting its annual fundraiser on Aug. 16. The foundation will transform the scenic hilltop of Mt. Helix into a vibrant celebration of culinary arts, fine beverages and community spirit for the 18th Annual Mt. Helix Food & Wine Festival,  In honor of the centennial, this year's celebration will feature a Great Gatsby theme reflecting the site's historical roots complete with a speakeasy, two live bands and dancing under the stars.
 
The event is recognized as one of East County’s premier gatherings, and serves as the  organization’s primary fundraiser to preserve and enhance the historic park, said Krista Powers, executive director of the Mt. Helix Park Foundation.
 
Powers said the Food & Wine Festival typically draws 700 people. The park's biggest yearly draw is Easter sunrise services, which attracts about 1,800 people to the top. Christmas activities bring close to 1,000 people to the site annually.

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DESTINATION EAST COUNTY: MIDSUMMER FUN

By Miriam Raftery

July 17, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) – As the weather heats up,  late July has many cool events including visits to the new Camel Lavender Farm in Ramona, Music on Main in El Cajon, Cajon Cruises, Movies at county parks and recreation centers, La Mesa’s Sundays at Six concerts and classic car shows, outdoor concerts in Santee and Lemon Grove, concerts by a lazy river at Sycan, tribute band concerts at The Magnolia in El Cajon, as well as outdoor concerts at Viejas.

Scroll down for details on these sizzling midsummer events.


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STATE PARKS PHOTO CONTEST RUNNING THROUGH SEPT. 30

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park photo (left) by Karen Pearlman
 
East County News Service
 
July 15, 2025 (San Diego County) -- California State Parks Foundation is inviting park visitors and photography enthusiasts of all ages and experience levels to capture the natural beauty, recreational activities and unique landscapes of California’s state parks.
 
The California State Parks Foundation Photo Contest is now open for submissions and runs through September 30, 2025.
 
San Diego County has more than a dozen state parks, including Anza Borrego Desert, Cuyamaca Rancho, Palomar Mountain and several state beaches — including Carlsbad State Beach, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in La Jolla, Border Field State Park Beach in Imperial Beach and Silver Strand State Beach in Coronado.
 

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YOU'RE INVITED! JULY 17 FEAST AT HIMALAYAN CUISINE IN LA MESA WITH EAST COUNTY MAGAZINE'S DINING CLUB

You’re invited to East County Magazine' s DIning Club feast at Himalayan Cuisine in La Mesa on Thursday, July 17 at 6:30 p.m.  All proceeds benefit our local news reporting and our wildfire and emergency alerts! Everyone is welcome to attend.

Himalayan Cuisine features delicious cuisine from Nepal, Tibet and India.  Plus we'll have a fabulous raffle with many great prizes including gift certificates to local stores and restaurants, a Himalayan salt lamp, wine lovers gifts, books, an Oriental-style rug, and more.

RSVP’s are required no later than July 14, but if you RSVP before July 10 you’ll be entered in a special prize drawing!

Please RSVP to:  info@eastcountymedia.org with your name, the number in our party, and “RSVP Himalayan” in the subject line.


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HAUTE WITH HEART FASHION SHOW AUG. 2 BENEFITS ST. MADELEINE SOPHIE’S CENTER

By Heidi Hope
 
July 4, 2025 (El Cajon) – You’re welcome to join in the spirit of London at the 47th annual Haute with Heart Fashion Show benefiting the nonprofit St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center in El Cajon. The event will celebrate British fashion and culture.
 
This fashion show on Saturday, August 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. will display a vivacious showcase of flowing champagne, live music, silent auction, fashion, indulgent shopping and a delicious luncheon.

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FESTIVE FOURTH OF JULY EVENTS AND FIREWORKS

By Karen Pearlman
 
June 25, 2025 (San Diego County) – Independence Day in the USA is just days away, and across San Diego County, there are myriad events to be part of to celebrate.
 
East County Magazine has compiled a list of various offerings to celebrate the Fourth of July,  whatever part of the region you’re in.
 
All events are on July 4 unless otherwise noted.

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ROARING ‘20S FASHION SHOW SEPT. 27 BENEFITS LEMON GROVE CHARITIES

East County News Service

July 3, 2025 (Lemon Grove) – You’re invited to step into the splendor of the Jazz Age at a Roaring Twenties Fashion Show event benefitting the Lemon Grove Forward Club and the Southern District Women’s Club. 

The event on Saturday, September 27 will feature a glamourous day of style and community purpose featuring a luncheon and silent auction. Dress to dazzle in your best 1920s-inspired attire.


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LAKESIDE FIRE PANCAKE BREAKFAST JUNE 28

East County News Services

June 27, 2025 (Lakeside) -- The Lakeside Firefighters are hosting a $5 pancake breakfast on Saturday, June 28 at Lakeside Fire Station 2.

The breakfast of pancakes as well as sausage, eggs, orange juice and coffee, will be served from 8 a.m. until noon at the station at 12216 Lakeside Ave.

At the event, there will be games and opportunity drawings as well as fire engines on display.


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LA MESA SUNDAYS AT SIX CONCERT SERIES CONTINUES

The Navy Southwest Band, shown here in 2013, is a regular part of the Sundays at Six summer concert series in La Mesa. (Photo by Karen Pearlman)

East County News Services

June 25, 2025 (La Mesa) -- La Mesa's Sundays at Six summer concert series continues this Sunday, June 29, with variety dance band Breez'n taking the stage from 6 to 7 p.m. at Harry Griffen Park.

This Sunday's free concert will also include the crowning of Miss La Mesa 2025, a person who will take over for the current Miss La Mesa, Samantha Luevano.


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FARM TOUR DAY RETURNS JUNE 28

Explore San Diego Agriculture with Local Farmers 

East County News Service

June 10, 2025 (Escondido) — The San Diego County Farm Bureau is bringing back Farming Tour Day, starting at 9 a.m., Saturday June 28.

This year’s event offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at a diverse array of local farms in Escondido, showcasing the heart of San Diego agriculture.

Participants will  enjoy guided walking tours led by the farmers themselves,  sharing their  expertise and passion for growing everything from mushrooms, succulents and cacti to citrus and avocados.

Each farm offers a unique perspective on local agriculture and innovative growing practices.  Farm Tour Day is family-friendly and self-driven — bring your group, follow our detailed tour map, and explore at your own pace.


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CONCERNS LEAD JEWISH COMMUNITY TO PULL SUPPORT OF SD PRIDE

Controversial Headline Performer, Safety Concerns Cited as Reasons for Withdrawal

By Karen Pearlman

June 7, 2025 (San Diego) – Many local Jewish organizations from across San Diego County that have traditionally been part of the annual San Diego Pride event will not be joining in this year.

Jewish community leaders say that because the Pride Festival chose musical artist Kehlani to be a headliner at the annual July festival, there will be no official, organized Jewish presence there.

According to a media release shared last week from the Jewish Federation of San Diego, the groups and synagogues that will not be participating in San Diego Pride include the Federation, ADL-San Diego, Lawrence Family JCC, Temple Emanu-El of San Diego, Congregation Dor Hadash, Congregation Beth Israel of San Diego, Congregation Tifereth Israel Synagogue and Temple Adat Shalom of Poway.

It also includes the festival’s current volunteer director of medical operations and assistant director of medical operations, Dr. Jennifer Anger and Eliyahu Cohen-Mizrahi. Both individuals are Jewish and have also stepped away from their roles with Pride.


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PANCAKE BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER IN LA MESA

East County News Service

 
June 6, 2025 (La Mesa) — Heartland Firefighters of La Mesa will host a pancake breakfast fundraiser and emergency preparedness training on Sunday, June 8, at La Mesa Fire Station 11.
 
The event, which will run from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 8034 Allison Ave., is open to all ages. Tickets are $5 and include pancakes, eggs, sausage, coffee and orange juice.
 
Proceeds will benefit the Heartland Fire Explorer Program.
 

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MT MIGUEL HS FOUNDATION HOSTING QUARTERMANIA FUNDRAISER

East County News Service
 
June 6, 2025 (Spring Valley) -- Mt Miguel High School Foundation, the nonprofit organization devoted to helping Mount Miguel High School, is hosting Quartermania this month.
 
Quartermania is a cross between an auction and bingo.
 
The event, set from 1 to 3:30 p.m., Saturday, June 21, will be held at the Mount Miguel High School Multi-Cultural Event Center, 8585 Blossom Lane in Spring Valley.
 
The cost of admission is $25, and all proceeds will go toward Mount Miguel High School Special Projects.
 
 
The event will feature Preview shopping at 1 p.m., and a Quarter Auction from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Drinks and snacks will be available.
 
A spokesperson from the group said that possible vendors may include Perfectly Posh, Party Lite, Tastefully Simple, Tupperware, Handmade items by Carmen and Simply Scarves.
 
 
 

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"ARTIVAL" DEBUTS IN DOWNTOWN EL CAJON JUNE 7

June 3, 2025 (El Cajon) -- Artival-- an art, wine and music festival--makes its debut in downtown El Cajon on June 7 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to celebrate art, culture and community.

Organizers describe the new festival as "where art meets vibes: immerse yourself in creativity, community and craft."

Enjoy an art walk featuring works by talented local artists, from fine art and photography to jewelry, handmade clothing, and ceramics.

There will also be food trucks, a wine garden, beer, and live music.


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SYCUAN BENEFIT GOLF TOURNAMENT COMING JUNE 4

East County News Service
 
June 2, 2025 (El Cajon) The Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation is hosting its 34th annual Sycuan Cup Golf Tournament this Wednesday morning, June 4, at the Singing Hills Golf Club in El Cajon.
 
This year, the event aims to raise $100,000 for four deserving local nonprofit organizations: Elymash Yuuchaap – The Native Resource Center at San Diego State University, SBCS, HorsePlay Collective and War Party Ranch.
 
The invitational tournament kicks off at 8 a.m. with registration. A special beneficiary award ceremony will follow at 9:15 a.m., during which the Sycuan Tribal Council will present donation checks to each of the selected organizations.
 
Participants will then tee off at 10 a.m. on the Oak Glen and Willow Glen championship courses.
 

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4TH ANNUAL JULIAN TOWN SQUARE MUSIC FESTIVAL JUNE 7

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May 30, 2025 (Julian) -- The Julian Town Square Music Festival brings music to the mountains on June 7 from 12 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Presented by the Julian Community Heritage Foundation and Julian Chamber of Commerce, this event will feature multiple musical performances. 

These include Kimmi Bitter and Westside Twang, Tim Flannery and the Lunatic Fring, Thea The Band, The Ordeal, Donn Bree and Friends,  Dolly’s Revenge, and Subconscious Culture.


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HERE’S THE SCOOP: LAKESIDE’S ICE CREAM SOCIAL MAY 31

East County News Service

May 25, 2025 (Lakeside) – It's starting to warm up in Lakeside, so it's about time for another Ice Cream Social.

The Lakeside Historical Society invites you to savor the third annual Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Social from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., Saturday May 31.

The event will be held in the courtyard of the Olde Community Church at the Lakeside Historical Society at 9906 Maine Ave. in Lakeside.


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DESTINATION EAST COUNTY: JAMMIN’ JUNE EVENTS

By Miriam Raftery

 

May 20, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) – June is jam-packed with summer fun, including outdoor concerts in El Cajon, La Mesa, Lemon Grove, Santee,  and Viejas. You can also cheer on Flag Day Parade, enjoy the Descanso Day Parade and  Fair, laugh along with comedian Arsenio Hall at Sycuan, learn about our region's western heritage at Campo Days, and visit Julian’s Town Square Music Festival.

You can also savor a Father’s Day barbecue in Jacumba Hot Springs or Father’s Day tours at the Ilan Lael Center in Santa Ysabel. Meet local artists at the new Artival festival in El Cajon, see birds of prey up close at Mission Trails Regional Park, watch movies in the park, stroll through classic car shows, or watch a poolside concert at Sycuan.

Scroll down for details on these sizzling summer events and more.


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EXPERIENCE EAST COUNTY HISTORY AND CULTURE AT CAMPO DAYS JUNE 14-15

 

By G. A. McNeeley 

May 18, 2025 (Campo) – You’re invited to step back in time to the Wild West and experience the history and culture of San Diego’s East County during Campo Days.  This free event includes visits to four museums in Campo, as well as activities ranging from riding a historic railway to watching exciting demonstration of equestrian skills. 

Campo Days will be held on Saturday, June 14, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, June 15, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 


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TAKE THE WARRIOR HIKE CHALLENGE MAY 24 AT EL CAPITAN COUNTY PRESERVE

Hikers on the trail at El Capitan County Preserve

By Michelle Mowad, County of San Diego Communications Office

May 17, 2025 (Lakeside) -- Conquer what is arguably the toughest trail in San Diego County this Memorial Day weekend. Trek up El Cajon Mountain in El Capitan County Preserve during the 10th annual Warrior Hike Challenge on Saturday, May 24.

The adventure is designed to celebrate the physical and mental stamina that’s required to hike El Capitan, which is popular among active-duty military and veterans.

There are several levels to this challenge. Participants can choose their own adventure, navigating the length of trail that matches their individual interest and ability. “Celebration stations” will be at the 1-mile and 3-mile turnaround points. Extreme hikers can push on to the summit for an 11-mile roundtrip trek.


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DESCANSO DAY FAIR AND PARADE JUNE 7: SMALL TOWN FAMILY FUN

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May 16, 2025 (Descanso) -- The Descanso Town Hall Association will present its annual Descanso Day Fair and Parade on Saturday, June 7. The parade rolls out from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. with grand marshals Brett and Tammy Cooker, owners of Descanso Junction restaurant.

The fair takes from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the historic Descanso Town Hallo, 24536 Viejas Grade Road, Descanso. Big Sky Moon will play live country music and classic rock from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Guests can also enjoy pulled pork sandwich plates and hot dog plates, IPAs and lagers with Burning Beard Brewery, a horse shoe tournament at noon (with signups at 11, for $25), a Kidz Zone ($8 unlimited play, with prizes), cake walk, vendors inside and outside the hall, raffle and silent auction.


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EL CAJON HOSTS AMERICA ON MAIN STREET MAY 17

East County News Service

May 13, 2025 (El Cajon) -- America on Main Street is also known as El Cajon's Largest Block Party. The event will hosted in Downtown El Cajon on Saturday, May 17. Admission and most activities are free of charge.

America on Main Street is a celebration of the American spirit through appreciation and respect of the many diverse ethnic and historical groups in the community. Highlights include multiple stages of live entertainment, American and ethnic food booths, rides, arts, crafts and display booths, a petting zoo, bounce houses and more,


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TOWN HALL MAY 8 ON SAN DIEGO IN-CUSTODY DEATHS AND ALLEGED MISTREATMENT OF INMATES

East County News Service

May 7, 2025 (San Diego)—The Racial Justice Coalition of San Diego (RJCSD) and Community Advocates for Just and Moral Governance (MoGo) invite you to attend a Community Town Hall centered on the ongoing inhumane treatment of people detained in the San Diego County Jails. The event will be held on Thursday, May 8 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at theChristian Fellowship Congregational Church UCC, 1601 Kelton Rd., San Diego 92114.

The organizations will provide an update on a class action lawsuit initiated by the San Francisco law firm Rosen Bien Galvan and Grunfeld on behalf of 14 families who have relatives in San Diego County jails. Their presentation will include a discussion of recent developments in San Diego jails and what work has been done to improve the conditions of inmates.


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