By Miriam Raftery
February 27, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) – March brings some merry events including farm tours, a stargazing party, live music concerts, a Spring Fling business expo, Tomatomania at the Water Conservation Garden, Daffodil Days in Julian, St. Patrick’s Day festivities, Nature Day atop Mt. Helix, a Pirates of Penzance production at Grossmont College, a desert homes tour, and the Price is Right game show at Sycuan.
Scroll down for these events and more, all in San Diego’s East County.
FARM TOUR ADVENTURES AT FORT CROSS ON SATURDAYS
Fort Cross Old Timey Adventures in Santa Ysabel, just outside of Julian, is offering farm tour adventures each Saturday this spring.
The farm tour adventure includes visits with farm animals, an interactive reptile show, archery, tomahawk throwing, paint balls at the Ghost Town slingshot range, a jug band, walking trails, tire swings, plant sales and more.
For reservations and tickets, visit https://www.fortcross.com
STARS AT MISSION TRAILS March 7
Members of the San Diego Astronomy Association invite you to enjoy stargazing at Mission Trails Regional Park on the first Friday of each month, starting at dusk.
Meet at the far end of the Kumeyaay Lake Campground’s Day Use Parking Lot to view the nighttime sky through telescopes, weather permitting.
For more information, visit https://mtrp.org/events/
GROSSMONT COLLEGE CONCERT BAND CONCERT MARCH 5
Grossmont College Concert Band Concert will present a concert (free!) on Wednesday, March 5 from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the school’s Performing & Visual Arts Center.
The ensemble features talented wind and percussion musicians, including students, educators, and community members. For more information, visit https://www.grossmont.edu/events/index.php
SPRING FLING BUSINESS EXPO MARCH 5
On Wednesday, March 5th from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., the La Mesa Chamber of Commerce invites you to their 10th Annual Spring Fling Business Expo. This special evening will be held at the Courtyard by Marriott in El Cajon between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Guests can meet local business owners and have opportunities to win door prizes and raffle items. For more information, visit http://www.lamesachamber.com
TOMATOMANIA MARCH 7-9
Tomatomania returns to the Water Conservation Garden at Cuyamaca College on Friday and Saturday, March 7-8. You can purchase tomato plants including some varieties, heirlooms and l classics—plus get tips from experts on how to grow the most flavorful tomatoes.
Hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on March 7 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on March 8.
This year, there’s also a tomato cooking class with Chef Nicolai Winkler. Reservation and a fee are required for the class. Another class offers tips on how to collect and store water on your property.
For details visit https://thegarden.org/.
MUSIC ON THE MOUNTAIN WITH SEAN GASKELL: MARCH 7 AT JULIAN LIBRARY
Friends of the Julian Library will present a concert by Sean Gaskell on the kora, a 21-stringed West African harp. This performance, titled “Music on the Mountain,” will take place on March 7 at 3 p.m. in the Julian branch of the county library, 1850 Highway 78 in Julian.
Gaskell studied under the extensive instruction of Moriba Kuyateh and the late Malamini Jobarteh in Gambia, and both Youssoupha Cissokho and Mamadou Cissokho in Senegal. The kora is traditionally played by oral historians known as Griots. Many songs featured on the kora preserve an 800 year history dating back to the founding of the Mande empire.
Gaskell has presented adult, youth and family programs at over 400 libraries and a multitude of k-12 schools, colleges, universities and assisted living facilities throughout the United States and Canada.
SPANISH NIGHTS AT GROSSMONT COLLEGE MARCH 7
Fri, Mar 7, 2025 7:30pm | US/Pacific
The Grossmont Symphony Orchestra welcomes its new conductor, San Diego Symphony Orchestra violinist, Hernan Constantino. His first concert performance titled “Spanish Nights: A Concert of Passion and Fire” will be held on March 7 at 7:30 p.m. in the college’s Performing Arts and Visual Center.
Maestro Constantino is also on his seventh season as the music director for Mainly Mozart with the San Diego Symphony. The Spanish Nights concert will feature works of Ravel, Bizet, and de Falla, featuring some of the most iconic and beloved pieces in the Spanish repertoire, from the seductive rhythms of Ravel’s Bolero to the dramatic flair of Rimsky-Korsakov’s Capriccio Espagnole, to the haunting beauty of Bizet’s Carmen
For tickets, visit https://gcccd.universitytickets.com
DAFFODIL DAYS IN JULIAN: WEEKENDS MARCH 7-APRIL 13
East County News Service
Julian Farm and Orchard invites you to Daffodil Days, held each Friday, Saturday and Sunday from March 7 through April 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In addition to u-pick daffodils, visitors can also enjoy other activities for a fee including a petting zoo, rock climbing, swings, picnic areas, a tractor-pulled hayride and more.
For details, visit: https://www.JulianFarmAndOrchard.com/daffodil-days-spring
ENTRANCES AND EXITS DANCE CONCERT AT GROSSMONT COLLEGE MARCH 8-10
Grossmont College’s dance department will present “Entrances and Exits,” a faculty-choreographed, student-performed dance concert on March 8-10 at 7:30 p.m.in the Performing and Visual Arts Center.
For tickets and more information, visit https://www.grossmont.edu/events/index.php
NATURE DAY ON MT. HELIX MARCH 15
Mt. Helix Park will host Nature Day atop Mt. Helix on March 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This event will feature live animals, a butterfly release, booths from over 30 nature organizations, activities, crafts and a native plant sale.
Shuttles for the public are available (free) from Grossmont High School.
BORREGO HOME AND GARDEN TOUR MARCH 15
The Anza Borrego Desert Natural History Association invites you to the 2025 Borrego Home and Garden Tour on Saturday, March 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Explore four desert dwellings in the heart of the Borrego Springs, at your own pace. Each home showcases unique architecture, landscaping and design elements.
Tickets are available online at www.abdnha.org/gardentour or visit the ABDNHA Desert Nature Center (652 Palm Canyon Drive, (760) 767-3098).
ST. PATRICK’S LUCKY ADVENTURES MARCH 17 AT FORT CROSS
Fort Cross near Julian invites you to St. Patrick’s Lucky Adventures on March 17
Participants can kick up your heels in an Irish jig, see snakes like those that St. Patrick drove away from Ireland, target sneaky leprechauns at the Ghost Town slingshot gallery, and venture into a land of leprechaun magic as you seek to find special treasures.
To purchase tickets and get more information you can visit https://www.fortcross.com.
ST. PATRICK’S DAY AT HOOLEYS MARCH 17
Hooleys Irish Pubs in La Mesa and Rancho San Diego invite you to don your best green attire to join in celebrating St Patrick’s Day on March 17 with Irish music and more. Details will be posted at https://hooleys.com .
PIRATES OF PENZANCE AT GROSSMONT COLLEGE MARCH 20-29
Grossmont College’s Theatre Arts Department presents “The Pirates of Penzance” March 20-22 AND MARCH 27-29.
This stage production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic opera offers a rollicking good time with endearing pirates, bumbling policemen, zany escapades, and delightfully ridiculous paradoxes.
For tickets and details, visit https://www.grossmont.edu/events/index.php
SPRING FESTIVAL AND EASTER CELEBRATION IN ALPINE MARCH 20-22
Alpine Country Crafts and Gifts (2156 Alpine Blvd. in Alpine) invites you to a Spring Festival and Easter Celebration. The event takes place on:
Thursday, March 20 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday, March 21 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, March 22 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
ALWANI MIDDLE EASTERN ORCHESTRA MARCH 27
The Alwani Middle Eastern Orchestra will perform at Cuyamaca College’Samuel Ciccati Theatre on March 27 at 7:30 p.m. It’s mission is to counter negative narratives about the Middle East by showcasing the region’s cultural richness through the transformative power of music.
For tickets visit https://gcccd.universitytickets.com/.
THE PRICE IS RIGHT AT SYCUAN MARCH 29
On on-stage version of the popular TV game show “The Price is Right” is coming to Sycuan, with two shows on March 29 at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Audience members will have a chance to hear their names called and “Come On Down” to win major prizes.
Tickets are available at https://www.sycuan.com.
By Miriam Raftery
February 27, 2025 (Rancho San Diego) – Tomatomania returns to the Water Conservation Garden at Cuyamaca College on Friday and Saturday, March 7-8. The free, two-day event celebrates 75-80 incredible varieties of your favorite summer treat—tomatoes. You can purchase tomato plants including some rare varieties, cherished heirlooms and legendary classics—plus get tips from experts on how to grow the most flavorful tomatoes. Hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on March 7 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on March 8.
Admission to Tomatomania is free, though there is a $25 charge to reserve space in the “Totally Tomato Cooking Demonstration” on March 7 from 12-1 p.m. Garden chef and instructor Nicolai Winkler will showcase tomato soup paired with a fresh tomato Panzanella salad. Class includes a personal portion of soup and salad, take-home recipe and up-close demonstration. REGISTER HEREYou can also sign up for a free workshop titled “That’s Swale” on March 8 from 10-11 a.m. with Eric Saline of Wild Made Design. Soil is the most efficient water storage you can have on your property, and building good healthy soil benefits every level of a garden ecosystem. Before you install plants, rain tanks, and grey water systems, be sure your landscape is designed to handle and harvest as much water as possible – passively. REGISTER HERE
Registration is required for both special classes.
Cuyamaca College is located at 12122 Cuyamaca College Drive, El Cajon, CA 92019. For more information, visit Events at The Garden - The Water Conservation Garden
East County News Service
February 21, 2025 (El Cajon) - The Grossmont Symphony Orchestra welcomes its new conductor, San Diego Symphony Orchestra violinist, Hernan Constantino. He is also on his seventh season as the music director for Mainly Mozart with the San Diego Symphony. His first concert performance is titled “Spanish Nights: A Concert of Passion and Fire” on March 7 at 7:30 p.m.
“Welcome Hernan and join us for an unforgettable evening of Spanish music and culture,” an announcement from Grossmont College states. “Our orchestra will take you on a journey through the works of Ravel, Bizet, and de Falla, featuring some of the most iconic and beloved pieces in the Spanish repertoire. From the seductive rhythms of Ravel’s Bolero to the dramatic flair of Rimsky-Korsakov’s Capriccio Espagnole, and from the haunting beauty of Bizet’s Carmen, this concert promises to be an unforgettable experience. Don't miss this opportunity to be transported to the sun-kissed hills and vibrant cities of Spain, where music and passion come alive.”
When: Friday, March 7th, 7:30 p.m.
Location: Performing & Visual Arts Center, Bldg 22, 8800 Grossmont College Drive, El Cajon, CA 92020
Source: City of La Mesa
February 20, 2025 (La Mesa) - On Wednesday, March 5th, the La Mesa Chamber of Commerce invites you to join them at the 10th Annual Spring Fling Business Expo. This special evening will be held at the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego El Cajon, 141 N. Magnolia Avenue in El Cajon between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. There will be raffles and business vendors who will offer free door prizes that evening.
The Chamber thanks the event sponsors:
Presenting Sponsor – U.S. Bank
Premier Sponsor – Kirk Paving, Inc.
Printing Sponsor – AAA Imaging
Friendship Sponsor – Lily’s Manufactured Homes
Supporting Sponsors – Amanda Hammett Insurance & Financial Services – State Farm, California Coast Credit Union, Feeding the Flock SD and Mattia & Yousif Law.
You will meet Chamber member business owners showcasing their business services. To date, businesses signed up include: AAA Imaging, Amanda Hammett Insurance & Financial Services--State Farm, California Bank & Trust, California Coast Credit Union – La Mesa, Carrie Smedley Photography, Deano’s Pub, Deliberately Adopted Floral & Design, Express Blinds & More, Feeding the Flock SD, Foothills Art Association, Dave Lemox -Bridlewood Medicare Insurance, La Mesa Lion’s Club, La Mesa Park and Recreation Foundation, La Mesa Rotary, Lemon Grove Media and Communications, Local Umbrella Media, Mattia & Yousif Law, Miracle Youth Productions, Nightwalker Caverns & Escape Room, North Island Credit Union, Orange Theory Fitness, Preplan CA, San Diego Community Power, San Diego County Credit Union, Spa Piel, St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center, Stills by Hill, Sungarden Terrace Retirement Community, Sunset Finishing Door & Trim, The Montera Senior Living, UCSD Health, U.S. Bank and Westmont of La Mesa.
The evening will be captured by Chamber photographers – Carrie Smedley Photography and Sandra Small Photographer who will be aided by social media partner, Lemon Grove Media & Communications.
Join the La Mesa Chamber of Commerce for this fun-filled evening that begins at 5:30 p.m. and ends at 7:30 p.m. Order your tickets at: www.lamesachamber.com.
East County News Service
February 20, 2025 (Alpine) – Alpine Country Crafts and Gifts (2156 Alpine Blvd. in Alpine) invites you to a Spring Festival and Easter Celebration.
The event takes place on:
Thursday, March 20 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday, March 21 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, March 22 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
By G. A. McNeeley
February 19, 2025 (El Cajon) - There’s a lot happening on Grossmont Campus, including a variety of free and paid events open to the general public as well as students, staff and faculty. These include concerts, movies, theatrical productions, blood drives, and more.
Below are details. To see more details for these events and more, click here: https://www.grossmont.edu/events/index.php
Blood Drives each month
The San Diego Blood Bank and The Health & Wellness Center are organizing several Blood Drives on campus. Join them in the Main Quad, to donate blood and make a difference in your community. No appointments are necessary, and walk-ins are welcome. You can donate on the following days: February 19, March 11, March 19, April 15, April 30, May 13, and May 21. The times for each date are the same: 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Your donation could save a life.
Movie Night Feb. 20
The First Year Experience is organizing a movie night at the Griffin Gate. Join them on February 20, from 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., for a screening of Get Out. Chairs will be provided, but feel free to bring blankets, pillows, or anything that'll make you comfortable. Plus, you can also enjoy popcorn, snacks, and refreshments throughout the evening. Feel free to bring your friends.
Pull Back the Curtain: A Dance Immersive Experience Feb. 20-21
Griffin Community Concerts and Grossmont College Dance are co-sponsoring “Pull Back The Curtain.” Kevin Jenkins returns to Grossmont College (where he graduated in 2006) with his company, Ballet Counterpointe. He will shed light on the development of his choreography, with behind the scenes videos that bring the audience into the dance making process. This is not just a performance, but also an immersive experience. Check it out on February 20 or February 21, from 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., at the Performing & Visual Arts Center. Tickets are $5 for students, $10 for seniors, military people, and GCCCD employees, and $15 for anyone else.
Grossmont College Concert Band Concert March 5
The Music Department is organizing a free concert, where you’ll get to watch the Grossmont College Concert Band. They're a dynamic ensemble of talented wind and percussion musicians, featuring students, educators, and community members. Whether they're bringing their classic wind band repertoire to life, or premiering new works, they’ll deliver a vibrant and electrifying performance. Join them on March 5, from 7:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. at the Performing & Visual Arts Center.
Pirates of Penzance musical March 20-22 and March 27-29
The Theatre Arts Department presents “The Pirates of Penzance,” which is a campus produced performance of the comic opera of the same name. Join them for an uproaring and rollicking good time that’s brimming with endearing pirates, bumbling policemen, zany escapades, and delightfully ridiculous paradoxes. Tickets are $10 for students and GCCCD employees, $14 for seniors, military people, and educators, and $18 for anyone else. Showings dates and times are as follows: March 20, March 21, March 22, March 27, March 28, and March 29 (7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.), and March 22 and March 29 (2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.).
Free concerts May 1, 15, and 16
The Music Department is organizing free concerts, as music majors take the stage for their music recital. A diverse collection of solos and ensembles will be showcasing incredible talent across a variety of genres and styles, from classic to contemporary. Join them on May 1 and May 15, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., at the Performing and Visual Arts Center. You can also check out the advanced music major recital, on May 16, from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., which is also at the Performing and Visual Arts Center.
Entrances and Exits Dance Concerts March 8-10
The Dance Department is organizing “Entrances & Exits,” which is a faculty-choreographed, student-performed dance concert. It’s a showcase of innovative choreography and dynamic performances that highlight the diverse talents of dance faculty and students. Join them on March 8, March 9, and March 10, from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., at the Performing and Visual Arts Center. Ticket sales begin on March 1.
Twelfth Night Shakespearean comedy May 15-17 and May 22-24
The Theatre Arts Department presents “Twelfth Night,” which is a campus produced performance of the play of the same name. Join them for a whirlwind of mistaken identity, tangled romance, and laugh-out-loud confusion in this timeless comedy. Tickets are $10 for students and GCCCD employees, $14 for seniors, military people, and educators, and $18 for anyone else. Showings dates and times are as follows: May 15, May 16, May 17, May 22, May 23, and May 24 (7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.), and May 17 and May 24 (2:00 p.m.. to 4:00 p.m.).
By Miriam Raftery
February 18, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) – Late February brings several unique activities to enjoy, including new moon fishing at Lake Jennings, Fido Fest in Santee, a black history celebration in Lemon Grove, a farm tour adventure at Fort Cross in Santa Ysabel, Romeo and Juliet onstage in Borrego Springs, Hawk Watch in Ramona and a concert by Mariachi Amapolas at Cuyamaca College.
NEW MOON FISHING AT LAKE JENNINGS FEB. 22
You can fish by the light of a new moon at Lake Jennings on February 22nd. Fishing opens at 6 a.m. and lasts until 10 p.m. You can also opt to rent a lakefront firepit complete with Adirondack chairs. The lake will be stocked with trout just a few days earlier, on February 17th.
Advance reservations are required and can be made at https://lakejennings.org/.
FIDO FEST IN SANTEE FEB. 22
The city of Santee invites you to bring your dog for fun times at Fido Fest, or adopt a furry companion from rescue groups. The event will take place on Saturday, Feb. 22 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Town Center Community Park East, 550 Park Center Drive East in Santee.
Contests will be held for the biggest and smallest dogs, best costume, and best trick. There will also be “arfs” and crafts, demonstrations, off-leash areas, vendors and giveaways.
Dogs attending must be on a leash, friendly with other dogs and people, comfortable in large groups, and up to date on vaccinations. Dogs must also be ready to have a good time, exhibited by lots of tail wagging!
For a list of adoption groups and event details, visit https://www.cityofsanteeca.gov/calendar/events/fido-fest/45710.
BLACK HISTORY EMPOWERMENT CELEBRATION FEB. 22
A Black History Empowerment Celebration will be held on February 22 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lemon Grove Academy Middle School, 7866 Lincoln St. in Lemon Grove. Festivities will include spoken word, drumming African dancers, music artists, soul food vendors, food trucks and more.
The event is sponsored by Thrive Lemon Grove, F.A.C.E. Lemon Grove School District, and House Gone Wild International.
FARM TOUR ADVENTURE AT FORT CROSS FEB. 23
Fort Cross Adventures in Santa Ysabel near Julian invites you to a farm tour adventure on February 23 from 1 to 3 p.m.
This event includes a two-hour guided activity tour with archery, tomahawk throwing, slingshot range, farm animal visit, and interactive reptile show.
For reservations and details, visit https://www.fortcross.com/.
ROMEO AND JULIET FEB. 21-23
Romeo and Juliet will take stage at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center February 21-23. The Shakespeare classic tells the tale of an age-old vendetta between two powerful families that erupts into bloodshed while a young lovestruck Romeo Montague falls in love with Juliet Capulet.
For tickets, visit eastcountyarts.org.
HAWK WATCH IN RAMONA EACH SATURDAY IN FEBRUARY
View raptors and learn about birds of prey at Hawk Watch, hosted by the Wildlife Research Institute at Begent Ranch (18528 Highland Valley Rd.) in Ramona each Saturday in February starting at 10 a.m. Arrive early for this free event, with coffee and donuts available starting at 9:30 a.m. It’s recommended to bring binoculars, a folding chair, sturdy shoes and a jacket.
The event begins with an educational biologist’s talk plus a Q&A session with falconry or ambassador raptors that you can see up close and personal. After the 1.5 to 2 hour seated program, you can opt to drive a 2-mile route on paved roads to observe wild raptors including a Bald Eagle nest. Biologists and expert volunteers will help you spot and identify birds and view them through their high-powered professional telescopes.
If it rains, the educational program will be held in the barn, but without the usual falconry flight displays. Hawk Watch is wheelchair accessible.
For more information, visit https://www.wildlife-research.org/hawkwatch.
MARIACHI AMAPOLAS CONCERT FEB. 27 AT CUYAMACA COLLEGE
Mariachi Amapolas, an all-female mariachi band, will perform a concert at Cuyamaca College in the Samuel M. Ciccati Theatre on February 27 at 7:30 p.m. These talented musicians have traveled the world, and they’ll now bring their lively music to Cuyamaca College in Rancho San Diego.
For tickets and more information, visit Cuyamaca.edu and type “theatre” in the search bar, or click https://gcccd.universitytickets.com/w/event.aspx?id=1888.
February 15, 2025 (Spring Valley) -- The Casa de Oro Alliance invites members of the community who have been affected by flooding to a community dialogue to help bring the community together and build resilience.
The event is Tuesday, February 25 at San Diego Youth Services’ auditorium, 3845 Spring Drive, Spring Valley, CA 91977, starting with free tacos (for those who RSVP) from 5:30 to 6 p.m., followed by an interactive discussion and activities from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
This event is co-sponsored by the Spring Valley Community Alliance, San Diego Youth Services, and Dr. Allison Brownlee at Stronger Together Community Services.
The event page states, “Are you concerned about flooding, water runoff, or inadequate storm channels in our community? Are you frustrated that “nothing seems to get done”? Let’s come together to build solutions!”
Source: AAUW
February 9, 2025 (La Mesa/El Cajon) - March 8, 2025, is the La Mesa-El Cajon Branch of the American Association of University Women's monthly meeting featuring Hannah Plackowski (left), Account Executive from the San Diego Padres and Sarah Cloutier, Executive Assistant to the CEO of the New York Liberty discussing empowering women in sports.
From the Bay Area, Hannah Plackowski grew up playing competitive soccer. She closed out her soccer-playing years at Cañada Community College before transferring to the University of California, Santa Barbara, to pursue a degree in Economics. During her time there, she was involved in the Sports Management Program. That experience inspired her to seek a job in sports after graduation.
In June 2021 she began her career with the San Diego Padres. She started as a Representative in Inside Sales and, after five months, was promoted to the Membership Development team as an Account Executive. During her first year, she sold about $1,000,000 in season tickets and was part of the first-ever Padres sales team to sell out all the club’s season tickets and launch a season ticket waitlist. In recognition of her efforts, she was named the department’s Rookie of the Year.
At the end of the 2022 season, Hannah made a lateral move to the Group Tickets & Hospitality team. During her first year, the department finished #1 in Major League Baseball, selling more group and hospitality tickets than every other team.
Sarah Cloutier (right) is currently the Executive Assistant to the CEO for the 2024 WNBA Champions, New York Liberty. Her responsibilities include managing the schedule and communications of the CEO, processing expenses for Liberty, logistical operations, and many other jobs she can get her hands on. Sarah started this role upon graduating with her Master’s in Sports Business from NYU in May 2024. While in graduate school, Sarah interned for the Brooklyn Nets in Public Relations and was the Director of Basketball Operations for the 2024 NCAA Division III Champions, NYU Women’s Basketball. During her undergraduate career, she played NCAA Division II basketball for Daemen University, majoring in Business Administration, also specializing in Sports Management, and minoring in Human Resources. Originally from San Diego, California, Sarah aspires to continue her career working in women’s basketball and further advancing the sport to new levels.
Regular monthly La Mesa-El Cajon Branch meetings are open to the public and are held in King Hall at Foothills United Methodist Church, 4031 Avocado Blvd. in La Mesa. Check the branch website for further details. AAUW La Mesa-El Cajon (CA) Branch
La Mesa-El Cajon Branch of American Association of University Women (AAUW) has been engaged in “equity for all” efforts since the 1950’s and is one of the largest branches in the state. AAUW empowers women and girls by advocating for more women in leadership positions, closing the gender pay gap and preventing sexual harassment and discrimination. We support girls entering STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) careers. We use research, education, and advocacy at the national, state, and branch levels to accomplish these goals. For more information about this organization, go to www.lamesaelcajon-ca.aauw.net. New members are always welcome and do not need to be invited to attend a meeting.
By Miriam Raftery
February 2, 2025 (San Diego’s East County) – February brings some favorite festivities and fun-filled events including a Judy Collins Concert in El Cajon, a stage production of Romeo and Juliet in Borrego Spr9ings, romantic Valentine’s teas in Julian, a black history celebration in Lemon Grove, the Boots and Bowties awards dinner at Sycuan, Fido Fest in Santee, and Hawk Watch in Ramona.
Scroll down for full details on February’s events in San Diego’s inland region.
JUDY COLLINS AT THE MAGNOLIA FEB. 12
Award-winning singer-songwriter Judy Collins will perform at the Magnolia performing arts center in El Cajon on February 12. Her rendition of Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now” won entry into the Grammy Hall of Fame and she won song of the year at the Grammy’s for her version of “Send in the Clowns” She’s had numerous top-ten hits, gold and platinum selling albums. Recently, artists such as Dolly Parton, Joan Baez, and Leonard Cohen honored her legacy with the album Born to the Breed: A Tribute to Judy Collins.
For tickets, visit https://www.magnoliasandiego.com/.
VALENTINE TEAS IN JULIAN FEB. 13-17
Julian Tea and Cottage Arts will host Valentine’s Teas February 13 through 17. The special set menu is a romantically inspired four-course experience starting with a cup of soup, then a variety of finger sandwiches and savories, followed by a scone with curd, jam and whipped cream, plus a luscious dessert tray.
Vegetarian, gluten-free and children’s options are available with advance notice. These teas will be served indoors and are also available to go.
For reservations and details, visit https://juliantea.com/.
ROMEO AND JULIET FEB. 14-23
Romeo and Juliet will take stage at the Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center February 21-23. The Shakespeare classic tells the tale of an age-old vendetta between two powerful families that erupts into bloodshed while a young lovestruck Romeo Montague falls in love with Juliet Capulet.
For tickets, visit eastcountyarts.org
BLACK HISTORY EMPOWERMENT CELEBRATION FEB. 22
A Black History Empowerment Celebration will be held on February 22 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Lemon Grove Academy Middle School, 7866 Lincoln St. in Lemon Grove. Festivities will include spoken word, drumming African dancers, music artists, soul food vendors, food trucks and more.
The event is sponsored by Thrive Lemon Grove, F.A.C.E. Lemon Grove School District, and House Gone Wild International.
FIDO FEST IN SANTEE FEB. 22
The city of Santee invites you to bring your dog for fun times at Fido Fest, or adopt a furry companion from rescue groups. The event will take place on Saturday, Feb. 22 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Town Center Community Park East, 550 Park Center Drive East in Santee.
Contests will be held for the biggest and smallest dogs, best costume, and best trick. There will also be “arfs” and crafts, demonstrations, off-leash areas, vendors and giveaways.
Dogs attending must be on a leash, friendly with other dogs and people, comfortable in large groups, and up to date on vaccinations. Dogs must also be ready to have a good time, exhibited by lots of tail wagging!
For a list of adoption groups and event details, visit https://www.cityofsanteeca.gov/calendar/events/fido-fest/45710.
EAST COUNTY HONORS AWARDS FEB. 22 AT SYCUAN
The San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce will celebrate its 113th annual East County Honors on Saturday, February 22nd, 2025 at Sycuan Casino Resort at 5 p.m. This year’s theme is Boots and Bowties.
For over a century, the San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce has been a strong voice on business, education, and community issues of interest to the East County Region of San Diego County. Since 1912, the Chamber has held the tradition of swearing in the new Chamber Board of Directors and recognizing outstanding businesses, organizations, and community leaders of East County.
For tickets, visit https://business.eastcountychamber.org/events/details/2-22-east-county-honors-awards-gala-17797.
HAWK WATCH IN RAMONA EACH SATURDAY IN FEBRUARY
View raptors and learn about birds of prey at Hawk Watch, hosted by the Wildlife Research Institute at Begent Ranch (18528 Highland Valley Rd.) in Ramona each Saturday in February starting at 10 a.m. Arrive early for this free event, with coffee and donuts available starting at 9:30 a.m. It’s recommended to bring binoculars, a folding chair, sturdy shoes and a jacket.
The event begins with an educational biologist’s talk plus a Q&A session with falconry or ambassador raptors that you can see up close and personal. After the 1.5 to 2 hour seated program, you can opt to drive a 2-mile route on paved roads to observe wild raptors including a Bald Eagle nest. Biologists and expert volunteers will help you spot and identify birds and view them through their high-powered professional telescopes.
If it rains, the educational program will be held in the barn, but without the usual falconry flight displays.Hawk Watch is wheelchair accessible.
For more information, visit https://www.wildlife-research.org/hawkwatch .