California Wildfire Spreads

PALA, Calif. (AP) -- Firefighters were making progress Friday in corralling a small wildfire near the Pala Casino in northern San Diego County.

The 612-acre fire was reported as half contained Friday morning. Full containment was expected by 6 p.m. Saturday, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

The CDF said nearly 600 firefighters were battling the fire.

Sheriff's deputies evacuated between 50 and 55 homes and businesses after fire broke out Thursday. Residents returned home a few hours later.

Fire officials estimated the total cost of fighting the wildfire to reach $250,000.