Local Business · Escondido, CA
Greg Koch and Steve Wagner, original owners of Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens at 1999 Citracado Parkway in Escondido, announced plans to buy back the restaurant and gardens after Sapporo scheduled its closure for Nov. 13. The site will reopen as an independent restaurant under a new name once the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control approves a license change. City economic development analyst Francisco Vargas confirmed the deal would preserve most of the 272 hospitality jobs flagged in WARN notices filed by Sapporo. Koch said he and Wagner are also exploring possibilities for the adjacent brewery operation.
Education · Imperial County
Ten years after community colleges in San Diego and Imperial counties launched tuition-coverage Promise programs, more than 76,000 students have benefited regionally, according to the San Diego & Imperial Counties Community Colleges Association. Imperial Valley College launched its Promise program in fall 2025, waiving tuition and fees for 420 students over two years, with inaugural cohort members earning associate degrees and transferring to four-year universities by spring 2026. A Lightcast analysis estimates the San Diego Promise alumni alone generated over $1 billion in combined economic impact. Eligibility requires full-time enrollment (12+ units), a 2.0 GPA, an annual FAFSA or California Dream Act application, and a signed success agreement; access has expanded to include former foster youth, veterans, returning students, and formerly incarcerated individuals.
Public Safety · Imperial County
The DEA's 31st National Prescription Drug Take Back Day will be held Saturday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering free, anonymous disposal of unneeded or expired prescription medications. In Southern California, 27 designated drop-off sites are set up across San Diego and Imperial Counties, including a drive-thru location at the El Centro Police Department at 150 N. 11th Street in El Centro. Sites will not accept illicit drugs, syringes, or sharps. Year-round disposal options remain available at more than 15,300 pharmacies, hospitals, and businesses, as well as permanent drop boxes at many local police departments.
