Good morning, Escondido.

US Marine Staff Sgt. Jason Pacheco and his family received a half-built 2,900 square foot home in Fallbrook from the Gary Sinise Foundation on Thursday; the house was designed for his wheelchair needs and nearly a hundred people joined a Walls of Honor Ceremony (including a note from Sinise) to leave personal messages before the walls are sealed.

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan warned today that nitrous oxide abuse is rising—recent tests of DUI drivers revealed 30 inhalant tests with three homicides, 18 collisions, and eight felonies, and officials may soon pass new rules to limit its sale.

Dr. Michael D. Munson will perform an organ concert at First United Methodist Church in Escondido on Sunday November 2 at 3 PM—featuring pieces by Bach, Thalben-Ball, and Whitlock.

The free community concert will accept a free-will offering.

Escondido’s EAA Grand Avenue Gallery hosted the free art forum on Oct.

9 and is holding the October Member Exhibition 'Something Wicked This Way Comes' from Oct. 8 to Oct. 31—tomorrow’s pre-artwalk mixer and gallery reception will include awardee discussions. A board meeting is set for Oct. 23 at North Island Credit Union Gallery—continuing a busy schedule of local art events.

Mail-in ballots have begun for Proposition 50, California's redistricting measure on the Nov 4 ballot.

Recent polls show that 46% of Latino voters plan to vote yes and 57% do not know how redistricting affects them—voter turnout in East County could decide the measure's fate.

California will ban ultra-processed foods from school meals starting in 2029 and finish enforcing the law by 2035 — the legislation sets a science-based framework to remove ingredients tied to obesity and heart problems.

Native American Heritage Festival

10 AM - 5 PM — Grape Day Park — Free entry — Celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day with music, dance, and local crafts at this vibrant festival.

Paint & Sip: Fall Vibes

11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. — Kettle On Grand — Ticket includes a drink and all materials — Unleash your inner artist while enjoying a relaxing atmosphere with drinks and friends.

Intimate Classics: 284 Strings

3:00 – 4:30 PM — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting blend of cello, piano, and harp in a captivating classical music performance.

A Step Beyond - El Alebrije

7-8:30 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Check site for ticket prices — Experience a vibrant live performance at the esteemed concert hall.