Good morning, Escondido.

A new Women's Veteran Center will open around August 15 in Escondido as a free program for women veterans and their children run by local nonprofit Wounded Warrior Homes.

The center offers counseling, education, job support, and a renovated home built by volunteers (serving up to two families).

A recent column explained that redevelopment west of Centre City Parkway is an example of transit oriented development — a plan driven by growth near the NCTD Sprinter light rail line connecting Escondido to Oceanside.

The piece detailed how economic challenges and changing neighborhood landmarks — including the loss of a local restaurant — are paving the way for future mixed-use projects in the area.

Scammers are targeting local pet adopters with fake photos and false ads to steal money and personal information— the San Diego County DA’s Office warns residents to verify sellers in person and use secure payment methods.

The Escondido Union High School District announced that all students will receive free breakfast and lunch for the 2025—2026 school year through the California Universal Meals Program and Community Eligibility Provision.

Meals will be provided at Escondido High School, Orange Glen High School, San Pasqual High School, Valley High School and Del Lago Academy to support student wellness.

Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 130 on June 30, which changed the housing law by removing several building restrictions, exempting some projects from CEQA requirements, and pausing code changes for six years & offering developers more flexibility.

Escondido councilmember Christian Garcia expressed concern that while these changes may boost housing growth, local staff must work to preserve the city’s standards.

At the July 23 meeting, Escondido Neighbors for Solutions asked the city council to adopt a resolution to protect residents from federal immigration enforcement and uphold constitutional rights—spokesman Gregg Oliver said the draft will be reviewed and set for a vote at the next meeting once two council members sponsor it.

Rincon Del Diablo Municipal Water District received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the third consecutive year after it completed its annual comprehensive financial report ending June 30 (fiscal year 2024) and its finance team earned an Award of Financial Reporting Achievement (the highest honor in government financial reporting), officials said.

The Escondido Extreme softball team competed in the USA Softball 12U B Western National tournament held from July 22nd to 27th in Moorpark — the 13-player team won three games before a key elimination match ended their run.

Their strong play in early games set up a challenging finish in the double elimination event.

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.

Whitney Shay at The Centre

6-9:30 p.m. — The Centre — Free venue parking — Enjoy a night of soul and blues under the stars with Whitney Shay and friends.