Jamul shooting victim dies after traveling to Alpine

By Miriam Raftery

March 18, 2026 (San Diego’s East County) – D deputies from the Rancho San Diego Sheriff’s Station responded to a report of an assault with a deadly weapon at 12:20 a.m. in the 16000 block of Loose Creek Road in Jamul. Upon arrival, deputies did not locate any victims at the residence.

“Shortly afterward, the Alpine Fire Protection District notified the Sheriff’s Office that a shooting victim had arrived at their station. Emergency personnel initiated lifesaving measures;” says Lieutenant Juan Marequez with the Sheriff’s department. Despite those efforts, the man succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the fire station.

Irish Secrets and Lies by Debbie Wastling

San Diego Bookshelf

Book by Debbie Wastling

Reviewed by Pennell Paugh

March 18, 2026 (San Diego) - Irish Secrets and Lies by Southern California author Debbie Wastling is part of The Sutherland Scandals¾a historical series about a family that rises from poverty. In Irish Secrets and Lies, the main character, Martha Lowery, is the daughter of a nonworking alcoholic father and mother whose health is broken from having too many children too often.

Record-breaking March heat wave gripping San Diego County

Photo of Lake Murray on March 17 by Karen Pearlman

East County News Service

March 17, 2026 (San Diego County) -- Baby, it's hot outside!

An unusually powerful high-pressure system has settled over Southern California, ushering in a period of dangerously hot conditions that threaten to shatter both daily and monthly temperature records across San Diego County.

The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning for the desert regions beginning at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 18, and extending through 8 p.m. Saturday, March 21.

The NWS warns that residents in the low deserts should prepare for blistering highs between 104 and 112 degrees Fahrenheit, with the most intense heat expected on Thursday and Friday. Overnight relief will be minimal, as temperatures are only projected to dip into the mid-70s.

Peak rattlesnake s-s-s-s-season slithering up

Photo courtesy County of San Diego

East County News Service

March 17, 2026 (San Diego County) -- As the marine layer thins and temperatures climb across the region, San Diego’s original residents are beginning to stir.

From the coastal sage scrub of Torrey Pines to the rocky canyons of Mission Trails Regional Park, the Southern Pacific rattlesnake is officially back on the move, the County of San Diego warns.

Rattlesnake season in Southern California typically spans from March through October, but experts warn that the peak "shaking" occurs between April and June.

Trump suggests takeover of Cuba as U.S. blockade collapses nation’s power grid

By G. A. McNeeley

Image: Havana, Cuba by Anselmo Guvaldo via Pixabay

March 17, 2026 (Washington D.C.) -- Cuba’s power grid has collapsed, leaving the island nation without power CNN reports, as the result of a U.S. blockade that has shut off oil to the Caribbean nation.

Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump said regarding the prospects of taking over or liberating Cuba, “I think I can do anything I want.”

The fervent, if intermittent, hostilities between the United States and Cuba spanning six decades have been marked by pressure campaigns, antagonism, and the occasional bursts of violence, according to USA Today.

Santee’s Bunny Trail March 28 includes dragon dancers and egg-citing activities

By Miriam Raftery

March 17, 2026 (Santee) -- Get ready for fire-breathing fun at Santee's Bunny Trail, including dragon dancers performing from White Dragon Martial Arts School.

This year, the event takes place from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m., at Town Center Community Park East, 550 Park Center Drive in Santee.

This year’s event features a bunny trail experience instead of a traditional egg hunt.

Families stroll booth-to-booth collecting eggs at their own pace, then exchange collected eggs for a festive goodie bag. Visit booths in any order and stop by as many as you’d like. Be sure to bring baskets!

A Look into Hell: What allegations and censorship in Epstein files reveal about President Trump and the justice system

By Alex J. Schorr

March 17, 2026 — Americans widely disapprove of President Trump’s handling of the Epstein files, with a majority believing that Trump was involved with or committed crimes alongside the dead sex-offender Jeffrey Epstein. Nearly three quarters say that the government is covering up additional information connected to Epstein, alleging deeply systemic corruption within the federal government, and a similar number want more prosecutions.

President Donald Trump is mentioned 38,000 times in the Epstein files, including multiple graphic allegations of rape and sexual abuse involving underage girls. The Justice Department has drawn criticism for selective redactions and omissions in the Epstein files released to date.

Now, new evidence suggests a possible cover-up involving the death of convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein in prison, following revelations that a prison guard deposited thousands of dollars into his bank account shortly before Epstein was found hanged in his cell.

Thousands facing new eligibility rules for CalFresh and Medi-Cal starting in April

East County News Service

March 16, 2026 (San Diego County) -- Federal and state policy changes set to roll out over the next year will potentially alter the landscape of public assistance for more than 1 million San Diego County residents.

Starting April 1, new eligibility requirements and work mandates will begin to take effect for recipients of CalFresh and Medi-Cal, marking one of the most significant shifts in social safety net administration in recent years.

The changes are largely driven by the federal One Big Beautiful Bill (H.R. 1), signed into law last July, which introduced stricter oversight and work requirements for nationwide benefit programs. While local officials emphasize that the majority of recipients will still qualify for coverage, the scale of the impact is vast: the County currently supports nearly 400,000 residents through CalFresh and more than 800,000 through Medi-Cal.

Will the AI bubble burst? How AI generators are remaking reality

Business and Labor

Screenshot from WION on AI

East County News Service

March 16, 2026 (San Diego) — According to Businessman and Attorney Andrew Yang, “The jobpocalypse is here.”

He expressed fears that Artificial Intelligence predicts a staggering 99 percent unemployment in the next five years.

As of early 2026, AI’s impact on aggregate unemployment remains subtle, with roughly 90 percent of executives reporting little significant change in headcount due to AI since late 2022. However, significant disruption is emerging in specific and high exposure entry-level white collar roles, potentially causing a 0.1 percent to 0.5 percent rise in unemployment.

While overall employment remains stable, young workers in AI-exposed fields have seen higher unemployment rates. While many experts see only moderate disruption, some projections suggest that AI could displace 6 to 7 percent of the workforce, with potential for 10 to 20 percent unemployment in specific sectors if AI adoption accelerates quickly.

'I’m Adopted' by Cynthia R. Gould is the cat’s meow

Reviewed by Pennell Paugh

March 16, 2026 (San Diego County) -- San Diego author Cynthia R. Gould has released her second chidren’s book, and second illustrated by Lana Lee.

The picture book "I'm Adopted!" provides a charming and hopeful story.

A cat struggles to live on the street. She is picked up and put in a shelter. The orange haired cat yearns to be adopted.

Coincidentally, I happen to be looking for a cat from rescue agencies. Gould has given me information, hope and determination to adopt my own homeless animal.

I recommend this book for children of all ages, including parents.

Inaugural Wellness 5K to fund expansion for Native Boys & Girls Club

East County News Service

March 16, 2026 (East County) -- The Boys & Girls Club of Kumeyaay Nation Wellness will host its inaugural Wellness 5K Walk & Run later this month at Naval Training Center Park.

A fundraising effort to expand services for Native youth across San Diego County, the event begins at 8 a.m., Sunday, March 29, at the old NTC-headquartered park at 2455 Cushing Road. Organizers say the event will help fund a new safe space and enhanced programming for the Boys & Girls Club of Kumeyaay Nation Wellness.

Currently based on the La Posta Band of Mission Indians Reservation in Boulevard, the BGCKNW holds the distinction of being the first Native Services Boys & Girls Club established in California.

Sanctified in Swing: A benefit for Lemon Grove Arts Collective on March 28

Ira Aldridge Repertory Players

East County News Service

March 16, 2026 (East County) -- An evening of music, storytelling and community will be the draw in La Mesa later this month.

The Ira Aldridge Repertory Players will be presenting “Sanctified in Swing” starting at 7 p.m., Saturday, March 28 at Spacebar Café & Wine Bistro, 7454 University Ave., in La Mesa. Doors open at 6 p.m., organizers say.

The event will include poems written by Calvin Manson as well as jazz, blues and R&B vocal music by Leslie Green and Roosevelt Carter -- all Lemon Grove residents.

Green will light up the stage with a powerful voice flowing through jazz, blues, and R&B, rich with soul, warmth, and the power to lift every heart. She will be joined by Carter, known for his velvet smooth, rich and warm voice.

Supervisor Joel Anderson runs for Treasurer-Tax Collector

By Miriam Raftery

March 15, 2026 (San Diego) – East County Supervisor Joel Anderson is running for county Treasurer-Tax Collector. Anderson, who holds a degree in finance from Cal Poly Pomona, has extensive governing experience, having previously served in the California Senate and Assembly and on the Padre Dam Municipal Water District Board.

Sunrise to sunset is theme of 2026 Lake Jennings photo contest

East County News Service

March 15, 2026 (Lakeside) – Lake Jennings invites you to enter your best photos taken at Lake Jennings between April 1 and April 30, 2026. “Lights, camera… lake life!

Show us your best lake adventures, wildlife sightings, epic catches, and golden sunsets,” the Lake Jennings officials' post on Facebook reads.

Ethan Talks to Animals: Eat Your Food Fussy Filo

Book reviews

Book by Nico Waters

Reviewed by Pennell Paugh

March 12, 2026 (San Diego) -- San Diegan Nico Waters has written a series of children’s books. In Ethan Talks to Animals, second grader Ethan can talk to animals. Together with his dog, Chewie, Ethan helps their next-door neighbor’s cat to eat his new diet.

Donate to help pets in need at Alpine Pet Food and Supply Drive April 4

East County News Service

March 14, 2026 (Alpine) – Dog and cat food, treats, grooming supplies, new pet toys, feeding bowls, beds, blankets, crates/carriers, leashes, collars, litter boxes and litter are among the items sought to help pets in need. You can drop off items on April 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Viejas Pit Stop, 5454 Willows Road in Alpine.

Sheriff identifies man found hanged in jail cell

Crime Beat

East County News Service

March 14, 2026 (San Diego) – A man who died of an apparent suicide by hanging in the San Diego Central Jail on March 8 has been identified as Grant Parker, 34. Parker was arrested February 15 on charges of murder and assault in the stabbing death of a man in downtown San Diego.

Extreme heat watch issued for coming week

East County News Service

March 14, 2026 (San Diego’s East County) – An extreme heat watch has been issued by the National Weather Service for San Diego County over the next week. Temperatures will start to climb Sunday, with high temperatures 20 to 30 degrees above normal starting Tuesday. By mid-week, temperatures above 100 degrees are forecast, with potential to break record high temperatures.

There is a high risk for heat-related illnesses for people, pets and livestock. Stay well hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during the heat wave. Those without access to air conditioning can visit a county library, community center, or indoor mall.

Cognitive behavioral therapy: healing through poetry

San Diego Bookshelf

CBT Self-Therapy Poetry: A Right Brain Approach to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and DBT Self-Therapy Poetry: A Right-Brain Approach to Dialectical Behavioral Therapy

Books by Dharlene Marie Fahl

Reviewed by Pennell Paugh

March 14, 2026 (San Diego) - Long-time San Diego-area author Dharlene Marie Fahl, using mostly free verse poetry, has written three books to introduce readers to Self-Therapy Poetry. This review includes two of her books in the series.

German Cabaret returns to El Cajon with 'No Train to Anywhere'

East County News Service

March 12, 2026 (El Cajon) -- The German Theater Group San Diego has announced its 2026 production, a German-language cabaret titled "Es fährt kein Zug nach irgendwo" (There is no train to anywhere), scheduled for a two-show run this April.

The performances will take place at the German American Societies of San Diego headquarters 1017 S. Mollison Ave. in El Cajon at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 25, at 7:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. Sunday, April 26. Organizers noted that tickets for the annual event typically sell out in advance.

The production follows the tradition of German Kabarett -- a distinct theatrical form that blends social satire, sketches, music and poetry. Unlike American-style stand-up, German cabaret often utilizes a full ensemble to offer humorous and critical reflections on contemporary life and politics.

The San Diego ensemble, operating under the artistic direction of founder Astrid Ronke, has grown from 13 members at its 2016 inception to today's more than 30 actors, vocalists and volunteers.

$33M water facility expansion buffers growth in Temescal Valley

East County News Service

March 12, 2026 (Temescal Valley) -- The Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District marked a significant infrastructure milestone earlier this month with a March 4 ribbon-cutting ceremony for the $33 million expansion of the Horsethief Canyon Water Reclamation Facility.

The project, which increases the facility’s treatment capacity from 0.5 to 0.8 million gallons per day, has been designed to support the region's accelerating residential development. The expanded capacity is expected to provide essential wastewater services for nearly 1,200 homes in a growing Riverside County community.

The expansion stands out as a landmark for public-private collaboration.

Poll workers needed for June 2 gubernatorial primary election

By Gig Conaughton, County of San Diego Communications Office

March 12, 2026 (San Diego) -- The Registrar of Voters is now hiring poll workers for the June 2 Gubernatorial Primary Election. Poll workers play an essential role in elections and can receive a daily stipend while serving their community.

CERT makes emergency preparedness fun

Health/Fitness

By Yvette Urrea Moe, County of San Diego Communications Office

March 11, 2026 (San Diego) - Preparing for emergencies is serious, but it doesn’t have to be dull.

San Diego County Fire’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is a volunteer group trained to help their neighbors during a disaster. Members also attend community events to share information about disaster preparedness.

California teachers ‘tread lightly’ for America’s 250th as they navigate competing narratives

America's 250th birthday

Education

By Carolyn Jones, CalMatters

This story was originally published by CalMatters. Sign up for their newsletters.

Photo: San Lorenzo High School teacher Judy Smith teaches her third period government class in San Lorenzo on Dec. 3, 2024, as they develop civic action infographics on topics ranging from gun violence to vaping. Smith’s students will submit their final projects to the KQED Youth Media Challenge which will publish the infographics online to share how students see themselves, their world and their future. Photo by Florence Middleton for CalMatters

March 11, 2026 (Sacramento) - The national political climate may be polarized and combative, but California is taking steps to ensure K-12 students learn to have respectful debates, get involved in their communities and understand their rights.

Two Lemon Grove City Councilmembers leave meeting in protest

The Lemon Grove City Council on March 3, following the exit of Councilmembers Seth Smith and Yadira Altamirano

Story and photos By Armando Rasing II

March 11, 2026 (Lemon Grove) - Councilmembers Seth Smith and Yadira Altamirano exited the latest Lemon Grove City Council meeting early on Tuesday, March 3, in protest over conflicting views on a tenant protection ordinance enacted in February.

Both council members left during a discussion on the selection of members for a potential stakeholder group for the new emergency ordinance. The council was also given the option to choose between a stakeholder committee or an ad hoc committee for public outreach.

Vatican removes San Diego Chaldean Bishop following embezzlement arrest; Cardinal also steps down

East County News Service

March 10, 2026 (El Cajon) – The Vatican on Tuesday formally accepted the resignation of Bishop Emanuel Shaleta, the leader of the Chaldean Eparchy of St. Peter the Apostle in El Cajon on Jamacha Way, following his arrest last week on felony financial charges.

In a concurrent announcement, the Holy See confirmed the departure of Cardinal Louis Raphaël I Sako, the global head of the Chaldean Catholic Church.

The move comes one day after Shaleta was arraigned on 16 felony counts, including eight counts of embezzlement and eight counts of money laundering. He entered a not guilty plea.

Shaleta, 69, was arrested on March 5 at San Diego International Airport by San Diego County Sheriff’s Department deputies who alleged he was attempting to leave the country.

82 square mile quarantine area declared after Mexican fruit flies found in La Mesa: all 4 East County cities, some unincorporated areas and San Diego neighborhoods are included

Source: Donna Durckel, County of San Diego Communications Office

March 10, 2025 (San Diego) -- The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) has declared a new quarantine area affecting the cities of La Mesa, El Cajon, Lemon Grove, San Diego, and Santee as well as Spring Valley and Bonita in San Diego County after Mexican fruit flies were found during a routine inspection in La Mesa.

Residents should not move produce grown in these areas off of their properties, since this pest can infest more than 50 types of fruits and vegetables.

U.S. casualties mount in Iran conflict

News

By Miriam Raftery

Photo via U.S. Navy: F/A-18E Super Hornet on flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln in support of Operation Epic Fury on March 2, 2026.

March 10, 2026 (Washington D.C.) – Ten days after the U..S. began bombing Iran, the Pentagon announced today that approximately 140 U.S. service members have been wounded, including eight with life-threatening injuries. Seven U.S. military members have been killed as a result of Operation Fury, the U.S. and Israeli attack on Iran, and Iran’s retaliatory strikes across the Mideast.

California Voter ID Initiative expected to qualify for November ballot

Battle lines already being drawn for what is expected to be a heated campaign

By Paul Levikow

March 10, 2026 (San Diego) -- The formal validation process is under way in the state’s 58 counties to determine if the California Voter ID Initiative will qualify for the November 2026 ballot, after supporters submitted more than 1.3 million signatures to election officials earlier this month in support of the measure. The secretary of state has until May 6 to determine if the required minimum 874,641 valid signatures has been met.

Reform California, an organization led by Assemblyman Carl Demaio (R-San Diego), is behind the effort. If passed by voters in November, it would amend the state constitution to require voter ID when casting a ballot, require election officials to verify the citizenship of registered voters, and maintain accurate voter rolls.

Brain-eating Rat Lungworms found in wildlife across region, including East County

Residents, gardeners should take precautions to protect against deadly disease transmitted by snails, slugs, and animals that ingest them

By Miriam Raftery

March 9, 2026 (San Diego’s East County) – Rat lungworm (Angiostrongylus cantonensis), a brain-eating parasite, has been found for the first time in San Diego County. It can be transmitted to humans, pets and wildlife with potentially deadly results. It was found in 10 opossums taken in by wildlife rescuers across the county that were euthanized after falling ill. The locations where the opossums were found include La Mesa, the College Area, Bonita, Peñasquitos, Cardiff by the Sea, Carlsbad, Point Loma, and San Diego. In addition, rat lungworm was also found in three rats and a wallaby at the San Diego Zoo.