March 2025 Articles

By Gig Conaughton, County of San Diego Communications Office

March 26, 2025 (San Diego) - Have you ever wanted to speak about an issue at a San Diego County Board of Supervisors meeting?

• Saturday, April 5 at 10 a.m. (Zoom registration link)
• Monday, April 7 at noon (Zoom registration link)
• Monday, April 7 at 7 p.m. (Zoom registration link)

• Go online to “San Diego County, CA Meetings” webpage: The new speaker-request system is easy to use. Use your smartphone, computer, laptop, or other device to go to the webpage at: https://PublicComment.SanDiegoCounty.gov.
• Click on the Meeting You Want to Speak At: Click on the meeting date for the meeting you want to comment at. That will provide information about the meeting.
• Click “Register”: Click on the blue “Register” box at the bottom of the page.
• Fill out the Form: Clicking the “Register” button will bring up a set of instructions, the online submittal form, and the list of agenda items for you to select one or more items that you want to speak to. The submittal form can be translated into multiple languages. Simply fill out your information, mark the item or items you wish to speak to, and whether you’re attending “In Person” or “Virtually” by phone.
• Scroll to request Interpreter if Needed: Scroll to the bottom of the submission form to request an interpreter if English is not your first language.
• Check the box to ask to be called when the Board meeting starts: You can also check a box to subscribe to updates on the Board of Supervisors.
• Click “Register” again at the bottom: And you’re all set. You’ll receive an email confirming your request to speak.

​

By Miriam Raftery

Photo courtesy of Library Foundation San Diego

March 26, 2025 (San Diego) - On Friday, March 14, President Trump issued an Executive Order intended to drastically reduce funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the only federal agency dedicated to funding library services.

“Without IMLS funding, the 37-branch San Diego Public Library system will lose a significant tool for maintaining, delivering, and developing innovative services for its patrons, said Patrick Stewart, CEO of the Library Foundation SD. “These cuts will impact a wide range of San Diegans — from a parent whose child relies on the Homework Center at their neighborhood library to the entrepreneur learning how to write a business plan at The StartUp center at the Central Library @ Joan Λ Irwin Common. The library is a core public service and a community cornerstone that needs to be safeguarded for our city’s future.”

The San Diego Public Library system uses federal funding distributed through IMLS to support several local initiatives. Loss of funding will negatively impact San Diegans who participate in programs every day including Lunch @ Your Library, adult literacy programs such as READ/San Diego, youth training and career development, entrepreneur and workforce development programs, Stewart added. 

The Library Foundation SD advocates for the City of San Diego Library Department. San Diegans can learn how to participate in this advocacy by visiting libraryfoundationsd.org/takeaction. 

Dulzura author, editor and children’s book illustrator Clarissa McLaughlin from Santee, in an email to ECM, stated,  “I have relied on libraries my entire life. I have read a plethora of library books since early childhood, I volunteered at my local library in high school, and now as an adult, I'm working to get my own books into libraries. Libraries are both an essential service to the American people and are critical to my professional industry. I have relied on my library as a polling location and I use Libby all the time to listen to audiobooks, both for fun and for my MFA classes, in which I'm studying Popular Fiction Writing and Publishing.”

She added, “My only wish for my library is that it had more funding so it could be open on Sundays again. Normally, I can only visit on Saturdays as I work 9-6, Monday-Friday. My library is well-loved and well-needed. It cannot be defunded.”

Dulzura resident Connie Kirkpatrick notes that libraries today provide more than books, serving as community centers that support education, career and personal development. In an email to ECM, she wrote, ““My library has been a cornerstone of my learning journey, providing books, classes, and programs that have expanded my knowledge and skills. Whether it’s attending author talks, technology workshops, or educational lectures, I have continually benefited from the opportunities my library offers. In today’s digital age, free access to information is more crucial than ever, and my library ensures that everyone, regardless of financial background, can benefit from books, online resources, and the internet.”

Libraries also serve as a community gathering place that welcomes people of all ages to come together for events, discussions and support groups, she observed.  “It has been instrumental in helping individuals with job searches, resume writing, and skill-building programs that empower them in their careers. Whether it’s a student needing a quiet study space or an entrepreneur researching market trends, the library caters to diverse needs.”

In addition, the library plays a vital role in preserving our local history and culture. “Through archives, genealogy services, and historical exhibits, it safeguards our heritage for future generations. Additionally, creative spaces like makerspaces, technology labs, and writing workshops encourage innovation and artistic expression, making the library an incubator of new ideas,” Kirkpatrick stated.

“For those in rural or underserved areas, such as myself, the library is a lifeline. It bridges the digital divide by offering free internet access, computers, and technical assistance, ensuring that no one is left behind in the information age. More importantly, it provides a safe and inclusive environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect,” Kirkpatrick concludes. “In a time when access to knowledge, technology, and community support is more essential than ever, libraries remain a fundamental public good. I urge continued investment and advocacy for these vital institutions so they can continue to serve and uplift our communities.”

By Miriam Raftery

March 25, 2025 (Rancho San Diego) – Today, the Joint Powers Authority (JPA) for the Water Conservation will meet to weigh opens for long-term funding and stability of the Garden at Cuyamaca College.

At its Feb. 25 meeting, the board discussed future funding options after the City of San Diego’s representative Nicole Beaulieu DeSantis announced intent for San Diego to withdraw from the JPA in light of the city’s budget crisis. Helix and Otay water district representatives voiced optimism that their agencies will likely be able to fill the funding gap left by San Diego’s departure and avert having other agencies leave the JPA.

Lauren Magnusen, Director of the garden, provided good news on improvements in Garden revenues outside of the water agencies’ contributions. Large donations have come in from the Sam Ciccati Foundation and major donor Maggie Burnett.

“The numbers are a lot better than in the past,” she told the board. “We have more admissions and more events.”  The Garden has 77 new members and drew over 2,500 visitors in the prior two months, she said.  Events are returning, including Tomatomania in early March and the Spring Garden and Butterfly Festival May 3.

But Magnusen added, “If we want more revenue, it’s in education. For education, we need educators.”

The board eliminated the Ms. Smartyplants education programs when it took over operations of the garden from the financially troubled nonprofit Friends of the Water Conservation Garden, which has since declared bankruptcy.

Helix Water District director Brian Olney said that despite the improved revenues, without contributions of the JPA’s member agencies, “The garden would be $180,000 in the hole right now.”

A draft letter has been sent to each member water agency for review; results are expected to be discussed at today’s meeting. It proposes that short term, Helix and Otay Water Districts will share in covering the revenues lost from San Diego pulling out.

Helix representative Dan McMillan said Helix is “fully committed to an upward budget. We will cover half if the city pulls out.”

Otay representative Jose Lopez said he believes Otay is committed, adding, “We’ll give it the best shot we’ve got.”

Sweetwater representative Steve Castenada asked for a non-escalator clause to be sure no agency would be “on the hook” for higher contributions if any agencies pull out in the future.  With that, he said, “We could probably get approval for more than two years.”

If increased funding doesn’t come through, the JPA would consider turning over operations of the Garden to the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District.

Chancellor Lynn Neault said, “We’re fully committed to the Garden,” but cautioned that they would need at least 18 months, and preferably two years notice to take it over, since it takes time to create college-oriented educational programs.

The Chancellor praised the work of the Garden’s volunteers, who provided 1,245 volunteer hours in the prior month alone. “God bless the volunteers,” Neault said. “That’s the work of 30 people. They’re the backbone of operations—it’s astounding.:

The JPA aims to make a determination as early as April on a plan for continued funding and future operations of the Garden after the current agencies’ agreement ends June 30.

The Sandie Awards invites San Diego marketing professionals to submit their best campaigns and projects – from branding and creative to storytelling and social – to compete for top honors among their peers.

East County News Service

March 25, 2025 (San Diego) - The American Marketing Association (AMA) San Diego Chapter has opened a call for entries for its Sandie Awards, the prestigious annual marketing awards program that recognizes the best marketing campaigns and projects created by or for an agency, consultancy, corporation, educational institution, nonprofit or college student in San Diego County. Entries for work completed in 2024 are being accepted here through April 1. 

The Sandie Awards or “Sandies” recognize work across marketing categories ranging from branding and integrated campaigns to social media and video, plus the Peers of the Year program, which includes Agency and Trailblazer of the Year. Kerri V. Kapich of the San Diego Tourism Authority was named 2024 Marketer of the Year. See full award categories list here.

A dinner program on May 22 at the iconic Town and Country Resort will host hundreds of marketing leaders and professionals as Sandies winners are revealed live.  Troy Johnson, food critic, Food Network star, and San Diego Magazine publisher, will emcee. Early bird tickets start at $135 and include a cocktail reception, full-course dinner, wine, and after party. Tickets available here.

AMA San Diego VP of Special Events Summer Haines says, “This is our third Sandies and it’s been wonderful to see the growth in number of awards and participants – from in-house departments to agencies, and nonprofits to universities. The awards spotlight the standout marketing being done in San Diego County and honor professionals creating incredibly successful work across the region.”

AMA SD Sandie Awards sponsors: 

• Town and Country Resort
• Buchanan Brand + Design
• Causal
• Clearpoint Agency
• Downtown Works
• MaxLux Media
• Media Now Interactive
• MisMarissa
• Neyenesch Printers
• Nexxen
• San Diego Business Journal
• Show Imaging
• SpeedPro Mission Valley

Sponsorship opportunities available here.

Causal, AMA San Diego Premier Partner, is sponsoring the Sandie Awards and is excited to celebrate the winning entries. Causal Sales Director Gloria Collett says, “The Sandie Awards beautifully highlight the stellar marketing work being done in San Diego. Our team at Causal works daily to deliver maximum value and results to our clients – just as the Sandie Awards winners do – and we look forward to applauding the honorees in May.”

About American Marketing Association San Diego

San Diego AMA is a 501(c)3 organization comprising mid- to senior-level marketers invested in advancing the art of marketing and creating unique growth and learning opportunities for marketers. San Diego AMA provides education, networking, information, resources, and valuable connections in a fun and approachable environment where personal development goals can be achieved. Visit www.sdama.org.

Prepare for a rollicking good time in Gilbert and Sullivan’s uproarious comic opera, brimming with endearing pirates, bumbling policemen, zany escapades, and delightfully ridiculous paradoxes.
 

Photos by Heather Longfellow

March 25, 2025 (La Mesa) — The Pirates of Penzance is a comic opera that was created by Arthur Sullivan and W. S. Gilbert. Directed and Choreographed by Melissa Glasgow, with Musical Direction by Patrick Marion, this is one show at the Grossmont College Stagehouse Theatre you won’t want to miss. 

If you’re not familiar with the story, it follows Frederic, a loveable pirate’s apprentice, who is head-over-heels in love with Mabel, the daughter of Major-General Stanley. Frederic is due to be released from his apprenticeship on his 21st birthday, but there’s a twist. He was born on February 29, which means he’s technically still a youngster. Torn between his love for Mabel and his dedicated sense of duty, Frederic must find a way to navigate a series of hilarious hurdles. 
 

If you enjoy musicals or comedies, then this show is for you. Most of the story is told through songs, and the singing was fantastic. All of the singers have beautiful voices, many of the performances were either memorable or funny, and all of them had me tapping my foot and humming along. 
 

Frederic the Pirate Apprentice (Drew Low) was a perfect protagonist. The character was endearing and quite memorable. Low brought the perfect energy to this character, and had me rooting for Frederic the entire time. Low also has a fantastic singing voice.

Mabel (Izabella “Izzy” Newman) was just as charming and memorable. Newman’s stage presence was strong, and easily has one of the most memorable singing voices. The chemistry between Frederic and Mabel was outstanding. 

Rounding out the cast, you have Major-General Stanley (Kaylee Kloberdanz), The Pirate King (Cameron Avendano), Lieutenant Samual (Iker Leal Chavez), Sergeant of Police (Ryan Robbins), and Ruth the Pirate Maid (Erica Rose). All of them were standouts in their own right, and each of them brought something special to the show. 

My favorite character was definitely The Pirate King. Avendano has excellent stage presence, which made his character entertaining. Avendano also has a great singing voice. 
 

The actors who played the rest of Major-General Stanley’s daughters, the rest of the pirates, and the rest of the officers were great supporting characters. 

The set was memorable, and a big part of the show in its own way. It had two looks, since the show was split into two acts. The first set was a collection of objects that had a pirate aesthetic, and the second set had fancy pillars. The staff who put the set together did an excellent job. 

The costuming was excellent. All of the costumes definitely felt fitting for the overall tone and story of the show. The staff who created the costumes did an amazing job. 

The music was easily the best part of the show, and everyone did a great job with it. The cast had great musical direction, and as mentioned earlier, everyone has great singing voices. 
 

A quick shoutout to everyone involved with the show. There’s a lot that goes into productions like this, and it’s nice that playbills were handed out that have everyone’s names and crew positions listed inside. 

If you haven’t had the chance to see the show yet, you can still see it at 7:30 p.m.on March 27, March 28, and March 29, as well as at 2:00 p.m. on March 29. 

Tickets are $18.00 for the general public, $14.00 for educators, seniors, and military members, and $10.00 for students and GCCCD employees.

Click here to buy tickets:

https://gcccd.universitytickets.com/w/event.aspx?SeriesID=35 

The Performing and Visual Arts Center (PVAC) is in Building 22, at 8800 Grossmont College Drive, El Cajon, CA 92020. 

Coming Soon: You can check out “Twelfth Night,” at the Grossmont College Stagehouse Theater, later this year, in May. 

Program to promote sustainable transportation

Source:  City of La Mesa

Image by raju shrestha on Pixabay

March 24, 2025 (La Mesa) - The City of La Mesa is introducing a pilot E-Bike (Electric Bike) Incentive Program, designed to encourage biking as a primary mode of transportation for those who live and work in La Mesa. As transportation remains the largest contributor to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in the city, reducing car trips will help create cleaner air and a healthier community.

Funded through a grant from San Diego Community Power, the City has partnered with two local bike shops to offer point-of-sale discount vouchers to make purchasing an approved e-bike more affordable. By reducing upfront costs, the City aims to provide residents and employees with a healthy, convenient, and sustainable alternative to driving — making it easier to commute, run errands, and explore La Mesa. Applications open on March 26, 2025, at 12 p.m. and close on April 14, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. The City is offering two tiers of vouchers:

• $1,200 for Income-Qualified applicants
• $800 for Standard applicants

To be eligible, applicants must be 18 years or older and either live in La Mesa or work for a business within the City. Approved applicants will be required to complete a mandatory virtual e-bike safety class before receiving their voucher.

Applications can be submitted online or in person at City Hall. Due to limited funding, vouchers will be awarded through a scoring and random selection process, prioritizing the first 150 applicants. Higher scores will be given to those who plan to use their e-bike frequently for commuting or errands within La Mesa.

To support safe riding, the City is partnering with the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition to offer a series of free bike safety and educational events throughout 2025. The first session, “All About E-Bikes,” will take place on March 27, 2025 at 6 p.m., a virtual course covering e-bike types, safety tips, details on the incentive program, and more.

To register for the class, visit San Diego County Bicycle Coalition's website.

For more information on the E-Bike Incentive Program, eligibility requirements, and educational opportunities, click here.

By Tesa Balc, Times of San Diego, a member of the San Diego Online News Association

Photo:  Rep. Sara Jacobs in her congressional office. (File photo courtesy of Jacobs’ office via Facebook)

March 24, 2025 (Jacumba) - A San Diego Democrat said Saturday that Republicans have told her they will not back President Donald Trump if he defies court orders.

 By Jennifer Vigil, Times of San Diego, a member of the San Diego Online News Association

March 23, 2025 (Ramona) - The woman accused of killing her wife, a CalFire captain, has been arrested in Mexico more than a month after the slaying, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.

Cesar Chavez passed away in 1993. Where are today’s heroes?

By  Dr. Sergio R. Conti, MPH

March 23, 2025 (El Cajon) -- I once asked a 12-year-old seventh grader who his Latin idol was. Without hesitation, he replied, “El Canelo Álvarez.” I explained to him that a hero is admired for their brave actions, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities. Heroes can emerge in history, literature, film, or real life. They are individuals who fight for justice, save lives, inspire others, or demonstrate extraordinary courage in the face of adversity. The boy looked at me thoughtfully and admitted he didn’t know anyone like that.

If I posed the same question to a child in Mexico, they might name Juárez, Madero, or Los Niños Héroes, among others. It made me reflect on how white children in the U.S. have figures like Washington, Roosevelt, and Kennedy. At the same time, African Americans look up to Martin Luther King Jr. Meanwhile, in the Latin community, we should honor figures like César Chávez and Dolores Huerta, but Chávez’s legacy is often overshadowed by claims that he referred to undocumented workers as “wetbacks.”

The absence of unifying heroes in the Latin community is no accident. Despite being over 20% of the U.S. population—more than 62 million people—we lack a figure who can bring us together. This results from the age-old tactic of “divide and conquer,” used since colonial times. The English employed it in Latin America, fragmenting the continent into small, distrustful nations. Those who sought to divide us crushed the vision of a united “Gran América” dreamed of by San Martín and Bolívar.

The Legacy of César Chávez

César Chávez, an American labor leader and civil rights activist, dedicated his life to defending the rights of farm workers. Born on March 31, 1927, in Yuma, Arizona, to a family of Mexican origin, Chávez experienced firsthand the injustices and harsh conditions faced by migrant workers. These experiences fueled his lifelong fight for their rights.

In 1962, Chávez co-founded the National Farm Workers Association (NFWA) with Dolores Huerta, which later became the United Farm Workers (UFW). Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, Chávez championed nonviolent tactics like strikes and boycotts to improve working conditions for farmworkers. His efforts led to significant victories, including recognizing the UFW as a representative body in negotiations with employers.

The Grape Boycott One of Chávez’s most notable achievements was the grape boycott, a pivotal part of the Delano strike (1965–1970).

The Strike Begins: On September 8, 1965, Filipino farmworkers initiated a strike against grape growers in Delano, California, protesting low wages and poor conditions.

Chávez Joins: On September 16, 1965, Mexican Independence Day, Chávez and the NFWA joined the strike.

Boycott Expansion: The boycott spread across North America, becoming a powerful tool for the movement. Chávez emphasized nonviolence and unity among workers of all ethnicities.

Victory: By July 1970, the boycott succeeded, securing a collective bargaining agreement that benefited over 10,000 farmworkers.

Context and Criticism

Some criticize Chávez for using derogatory terms like “wetback” to describe undocumented workers. To understand this, we must consider the context. In 1973, farmworkers in California earned an average annual wage of $2,500–$3,000. The UFW fought to secure a minimum wage of $2.50 per hour (equivalent to $20.34 in 2025). However, vineyard companies undermined the movement by hiring undocumented workers as strikebreakers. Faced with this challenge, Chávez’s frustration was understandable, though not excusable.

Personal Reflection

No one is without flaws. As humans, we all have moments we regret. Even so, Chávez’s achievements remain extraordinary. He and Dolores Huerta paved the way for labor rights, yet their leadership has not been succeeded by others who can unify the Latin community. Today, we face challenges from those who seek to marginalize us, yet our politicians often fail to support our fight. Perhaps it is up to us to become the heroes who will change our reality.

César Chávez passed away on April 23, 1993, in San Luis, Arizona. His legacy is a symbol of the fight for civil and labor rights.

The opinions in this reader’s editorial reflect the views of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of East County Magazine. To submit an editorial for consideration, contact editor@eastcountymagazine.org.

Photo, right, Sycuan pow-wow dancer

East County News Service

March 20, 2025 (San Diego) - San Diego’s inland region is home to 19 Native American tribes and 18 reservations—more than any other county in America. Local tribes trace their history here back more than 12,000 years.

Many of our local tribes welcome visitors to enjoy facilities on tribal lands, which are each sovereign nations. Attractions include casinos, hotels, golf courses, spas, concerts and other live entertainment, restaurants, an outlet shopping mall, restaurants, buffets and bars, a speedway, a paintball range, a museum, Native American pow-wows, a brewery, a vineyard, a dispensary, hiking trails, campgrounds, a water park, bike park, and a zip line.

All local tribal lands are in San Diego County’s inland areas, including northeast, southeast, and central east locations. View map here, or scroll to the bottom of this article.

Reservations that currently offer facilities or activities for visitors:

Barona Indian Reservation: Casino resort, hotel, golf, day spa, restaurants, bars, lake, and speedway

The Barona Band of Mission Indians operates the Barona Resort & Casino on its reservation off Wildcat Canyon Road in Lakeside, accessible from State Route 67, approximately 28 miles from downtown San Diego. The resort includes a 400-room hotel, award-winning golf course, day spa,  and beautiful landscaped grounds including a lake.  There are five restaurants ranging from the Barona Oaks Steakhouse to restaurants offering Italian, Asian, and California cuisine, plus a food court. You can also watch auto racing at the nearby Barona Speedway in season. Barona also hosts an annual powwow at the sports fields just north of the casino.

Campo Indian Reservation:  Casino, restaurants, and travel center

The Campo Indian Reservation is home to the Campo band of the Kumeyaay Nation . They operate the Golden Acorn Casino and Travel Center south of Interstate 8 in Campo, 60 miles east of San Diego. The casino also has live entertainment. The casino restaurants include a grill with prime rib specials and other entrees, a deli, ice cream shop and bakery, bar, and more. The travel center has snacks, gas and amenities to service travelers.

Jamul Indian Village:  Casino resort, hotel, spa, restaurants, live entertainment

The Jamul Indian Village, a tribe of the Kumeyaay Nation, operates the Jamul Casino and Resort. It’s located 23 miles southeast of San Diego alone State Route 94.Campo Road.  The tribe has expanded its original casino to include a 16-story hotel opening in May 2025, which will also include a day spa and other amenities. The property has several restaurants ranging from a steakhouse with mountain views to the Tony Gwynn sports bar, as well as live entertainment and an events venue.

La Jolla Indian Reservation: Adventure park, camping, bike park, water park, zipline

Home to the La Jolla Band of Luiseño Indians, the La Jolla Reservation spans 8,541 acres along the southern slopes of Mount Palomar and descends through forests to the San Luis Rey River. The reservation is located off State Highway 76, 25 miles east of Escondido and 60 miles northeast of San Diego. The tribe operates an adventure park which includes a campground,  bike park, water park zipline through the forest.

Los Coyotes Reservation: hiking to Hot Springs Mountain and primitive tent camping

The Los Coyotes Reservation operated by the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuillo and Cupeño Indians is located 70 miles northeast of San Diego and encompasses Hot Springs Mountain, the tallest peak in San Diego County at 6,533 feet in elevation. It borders Cleveland National Forest and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. The tribe has a campground with primitive tent sites; visitors can hike 10 miles to the mountaintop. You can purchase a hiking permit and make campground reservations on their website.

Pala Reservation: Casino resort, hotel, RV park, indoor/outdoor live entertainment, pool with waterfalls and firepit, cultural center

The Pala Band of Mission Indians reservation is located 54 miles northeast of San Diego, accessible via State Route 76 off I-15. The  Pala Casino Resort offers live indoor and outdoor entertainment at its events center and Starlight Theater, a hotel, RV park, and more. The tribe also has a Cupa Cultural Center with exhibits and cultural events. The resort features indoor and outdoor concerts, a hotel, pool with waterfalls and firepits, RV resort, and more.

Pauma Reservation: Casino, restaurants, live entertainment, vineyard, farms, trails

The Pauma Band of Luiseño Indians operates Casino Pauma in the Pauma Valley, 60 miles northeast of San Diego via I-15 and State Route 75.  The casino has a café, Mexican grill, deli and pizzeria as well as live entertainment in the Parrot Lounge. The Pauma Tribe also operates Pauma Tribal Farms with sustainably grown produce, olives and vineyard, as well as walking trails.

Rincon Reservation:  Casino, hotel, pool with swim-up bar, spa, golf, live entertainment, brewery

The Rincon Band of the Luiseño Nation is located about 47 miles northeast of San Diego near Valley Center, east of Escondido. The tribe owns Harrah’s Resort Southern California, located in the newly named “Funner” community. The resort includes a hotel, pool with swim-up bar, wellness spa, golf, live entertainment and activities. You can also visit the Rincon Road Reservation Brewery to taste award-winning beers from the only tribal-owned brewery in Southern California.

San Pasqual Reservation: Casino, hotel, restaurants, buffet, live entertainment, golf club

The San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians operates the Valley View Casino and Hotel, which also has restaurants, an all-you-can-eat buffet, plus live entertainment at the Main Stage Bar. The Native Oaks Golf Club is also run by the tribe, offering golf, junior golf camps, and the Shawii Kitchen restaurant.

Santa Ysabel Reservation: Marijuana dispensary

The Iipay Nation of Santa Ysabel is located 52 miles northeast of San Diego, accessible via State Route 78 near Julian. The tribe operates the Mountain Source marijuana dispensary, which invites the public to “get it where it’s grown.”

Sycuan Reservation:  Casino resort, hotel, pool/river, cabanas, day spa, restaurants, golf, concerts and live entertainment

The Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation’s reservation is located about 20 miles east of San Diego in unincorporated  El Cajon, accessible off I-8 and Dehesa Rd.  The tribes own the Sycuan Casino Resort, which includes a high-rise hotel with lazy river flowing through the grounds, pool and cabanas, a spa, numerous restaurants and bars.  The casino has live entertainment at the Live Up-Close Theatre and the Heritage Events Center. Visitors can also golf at the nearby Singing Hills Golf Course at Sycuan, also home to the Red Tail Bar and Grill. Sycuan hosts a powwow each year on powwow grounds adjacent to the casino and hotel.

Viejas Reservation: Casino resort, hotel, golf, concerts and live entertainment, restaurants, outlet shopping center, bowling, arcade, seasonal skating

The Viejas Band of the Kumeyaay Nation  has a reservation in the Alpine area, 33 miles east of San Diego off Interstate. The tribe operates the Viejas Casino Resort including two hotels, golf, numerous dining options including the award-winning Grove Steakhouse, as well as concerts and other live entertainment.  The Viejas Outlets Center across the street from the casino and hotels has numerous shopping opportunities, a bowling alley, arcade, and seasonal activities such as the largest outdoor ice skating rink in southern California, roller skating in summer, water shows, and more.

Other local tribes

San Diego’s other reservations don’t currently offer facilities or amenities for visitors, due largely to their remote locations.  These include these inhabited reservations:  Cuyapaipe (Ewiiaapaayp), Inaja and Cosmit, La Posta, Manzanita, and Mesa Grande, as well as the uninhabited Capitan Grande Reservation, where tribal members were relocated due to construction of a dam and reservoir in the 1930s. Two additional tribal bands here have no federally recognized lands: the San Luis Rey Band of Luiseño Indians and the Mount Laguna Band of Luiseño Indians.

Learn more about local Native American tribes

Read more about the Indian tribes of San Diego County. The Indian tribes of San Diego County at Kumeyaay.com and Discover San Diego.

Calendar of Native American powwows

This website lists all Native American powwows in California, include those in San Diego County each year.

Map of local Native American reservations