Good morning, Escondido.

California Center for the Arts in Escondido received a $15,000 Community Challenge grant from AARP to transform its campus Rose Garden into a sculpture garden that offers accessible pathways + free cultural programming with bilingual poetry readings, artist talks, and nature walks for older adults.

On Friday, June 26, the Chamber held its 115th installation dinner at the California Center for the Arts (Escondido) where Supervisor Jim Desmond presented outgoing Chairwoman Kay Bates a proclamation and awards were given; it also announced a golf tournament on Aug.

28 at Native Oaks Golf Course (Valley Center).

Escondido Fire Safe Council received a $10,000 Project SAFE grant announced on June 22 by the San Diego Regional Fire Foundation, part of a $276,000 effort to boost wildfire prevention and teach neighbors fire safety measures.

Residents worry about a new ice sports facility at Kit Carson Park as a long-term lease lasting up to fifty years may reduce valued open space and protectable wildlife.

They urge officials to share clear studies on traffic, environmental impact and alternative sites before proceeding + ensuring public trust.

Escondido’s 26th Annual Cruisin’ Grand will celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary on Friday, July 3 with Capt. Royce Williams and Wounded Warriors making a rare public appearance — the event will include a recognition ceremony on Grand Avenue and Broadway and a parade featuring classic cars, live music and street games.

Esco Arts opened its Colors of Summer exhibition today at the North Island Credit Union gallery on Auto Parkway — showcasing local artwork and awarding top pieces — and it will run until Sept.

23.

Angie Santizo-Gomez from Escondido was named one of the top three scholarship winners in the Don Diego Scholarship Foundation’s 40th anniversary awards — she will attend Cal Poly SLO to study Animal Science.

Other local students also received awards as part of the program awarding $94,000 to 22 students.

San Pasqual Academy's future is under review as the County seeks input on the 238-acre campus that has served 1,000 foster youth amid fewer placements.

Public meetings are set for July 15 (Child and Family Well-Being Office in San Diego) and July 17 (North Inland Live Well Center in Escondido).

City council members honored Parks & Recreation Dept employees on June 23 with a proclamation naming July as Parks & Recreation Month to recognize their role in maintaining local parks & trails and community programs.

Classical Academy’s boys golf team had a busy postseason run, finishing second at the CIF San Diego Section Championship and fifth at the CIF State Championship held at San Gabriel Country Club.

Coach Kevin Ruby led the team through key tournaments, showcasing the school’s strong golf tradition.

Guns N' Roses & Mötley Crüe Rock Tribute

8:00 – 10:40 PM — The Grand | Ritz Theater — Ticket information varies — Experience the electrifying sounds of the ultimate tribute bands for a night of classic rock.

Il Tabarro Opera and Ballet Performance

3:00 – 5:30 PM — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Tickets available — Experience Puccini's haunting opera and a unique neoclassical ballet adaptation in one unforgettable performance.