Good morning, Escondido.

On July 16, the Escondido City Council honored the late Phil Henry of Henry Avocado Corp.—he served as president for 15 years and supported many local causes—with a proclamation presented to his widow, Kathy Henry, by Mayor Dane White.

Escondido now has an eco-friendly option with Vessel Refills on Orange Street — a zero waste store where residents can refill everyday products to help reduce single-use waste.

Today, local business owners will meet at Best Pizza on E. Valley Parkway at 6 p.m. to receive city updates and learn about upcoming cultural events.

A Vista woman pleaded not guilty Wednesday to felony charges after she drove drunk onto a North County bike trail over the weekend and struck 27-year-old Maxwell Rouette, who died at the scene—his mother said he had struggled with mental health and was remembered as kind and creative.

The Escondido Art Association is hosting a Kids Art Summer Camp at its gallery on Grand Avenue every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon until August 12—local artists like Craig Reesor and Kat Furrow lead hands-on painting and drawing sessions for children ages 5 to 12.

The program offers young artists a chance to learn essential techniques and express their creativity in a practical art setting.

The Photographer’s Eye Gallery in Escondido presents the Water Stories exhibit featuring art by William Bay — who shows pollution in the Tijuana River, Stefan Frutiger — who captures water scarcity, and Terri Warpinski — who explores natural and cultural histories.

The exhibit is open Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. until August 2 at 326 E. Grand Ave. and offers free admission with donations welcome.

Escondido Mayor Dane White announced his campaign for reelection at a kickoff event on July 17 where he highlighted his record on reducing homelessness, improving public safety, and boosting support for small businesses—he also noted a $1 million boost for the Grand Avenue Vision Project and praised local backing. White said he is running for a second term and pledged to keep working to make Escondido better for all residents.

Marisela Concert

6-9 p.m. — Pala Casino Spa Resort — Tickets available — Experience the enchanting sounds of Marisela, a celebrated figure in pop music since the 1980s.

Paint & Sip Experience

11:30 a.m. — Kettle On Grand — Beverage included — Unleash your inner artist while painting with friends in a creative atmosphere.

Debuts: Contemporary Ballet Show

7:30-10:30 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Ticket info TBA — Experience captivating world premieres from notable choreographers in a groundbreaking ballet presentation.

The Mamas and Papas Experience

7-8:30 p.m. — The Grand | Ritz Theater — Ticketed event — Relive the flower power era with music from The Mamas & The Papas and other iconic songs.