Good morning, Escondido.

Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected pope on Thursday at a watch party hosted by the San Diego Diocese—he is the first North American to lead the church and chose the name Leo XIV to honor social justice causes.

Church leaders said his global experience, including work in Latin America, shaped his pastoral approach and his formal installation will be scheduled soon.

Young adults from St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center are learning life skills at XO Ranch in Descanso by doing ranch chores and caring for animals—skills that build their confidence and job readiness.

The 16-week program, now five weeks in, recently promoted student Robert to lead volunteer to guide peers in daily tasks.

A poll released today by the California State Parks Foundation names several San Diego County parks among the best in California for categories like wildflower viewing and picnicking.

Anza-Borrego was voted best for wildflowers and Torrey Pines for picnicking—Palomar Mountain and Cardiff State Beach earned honorable mentions.

Escondido officials invite residents to follow the City on its official social media channels for timely updates on local projects and alerts — recent posts include details on Grand Avenue construction and Escondido Creek Trail improvements.

Senator Brian W. Jones sent an urgent letter to Governor Newsom today calling for quick action to stop the planned closures—Phillips 66 by the end of 2025 and Valero in April—since a USC study warns that gas prices could jump 75% to $8.43 per gallon by 2026.

He warned that these shutdowns may lead to higher fuel costs and job losses that could affect Escondido families.

Escondido is upgrading the Creek Trail with active construction planned over the next two weeks that includes decomposed granite placement and cable railing installation from Broadway to Hickory Streets, along with storm drain, irrigation, and electrical trench work.

Trail users should expect an eight-hour closure and a potential 24-hour closure — flaggers direct visitors and road signs provide updated access information — while local businesses remain open during construction.

Old Escondido Mother's Day Home Tour

6-11 p.m. — 329 E 7th Ave, Escondido — $30 pre-purchase, $35 at door — Explore five historic homes and enjoy refreshments in a charming Mother’s Day tradition.

Lawrence Welk's Villas on the Greens Stay

May 23-30 — Villas on the Greens, Escondido, CA — From $2,900 — Enjoy a luxurious one-bedroom stay at a resort with golf, theater, and family-friendly activities.

Escondido Choral Arts Concert

3-6 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a captivating performance featuring Dan Forrest’s Requiem for the Living and full orchestra.

Palomar Gem and Mineral Show

10 a.m. - 5 p.m., 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Entry fee TBD — Discover beautiful mineral specimens, cut gems, fossils, and exquisite jewelry crafted from the earth's treasures.