Good morning, Escondido.

Escondido elementary students took part in a fire safety poster contest on Fire Prevention Week — they created Home Fire Escape Plans as part of the contest sponsored by the Escondido Fire Department, Firefighters Association Local 3842, and Tony Pepperoni.

Winners from four schools were honored at the City Council meeting on October 15 at 5:00 p.m.

In September, Street Stewards cleaned a stretch along the 15 freeway near Westfield’s North County Fair Mall under the Caltrans Adopt-A-Highway program, and they recorded their work on an online map.

The group plans to expand its block-level cleanups across Escondido — a push that aims to keep local streets green.

The Grand Avenue Festival, scheduled for October 19 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., will add an Escondido Green Expo—an e-waste collection drive run by SoCal Surplus and E-Waste—at the corner of Grand Ave and Escondido Blvd.

Janae Lessnau, who rescued her German Shepherd Oaklee, makes healthy dog treats called Pawnana Rings and other baked snacks in Escondido, and she donates 20% of her proceeds to help rescue organizations (such as Pup Profile).

She also plans to open an Oaklee Doaklee Barktorium on Grand Avenue and is holding a toy drive for Bonita Animal Shelter from November 3 to December 19.

Antique Gas and Steam Engine Museum will host its annual Tractor Show on October 18, 19, 25 and 26 with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for all ages—this event will celebrate 100 years of Caterpillar tractors and cost $10 at the door.

Organist Dr. Michael Munson (a Life Member of AGO) will perform organ music featuring works by Bach and other composers at First United Methodist Church of Escondido, 341 S.

Kalmia St. on November 2 at 3 p.m., and the free event will accept a free-will offering.

On Tuesday, October 7, the Escondido YMCA partnered with Escondido Union School District to open its refurbished pool for after-school water safety and swim lessons.

The program is part of a $1.2 million state-funded investment and teaches basic swim skills with lifeguard supervision—a key step in introducing many students to swimming.

A recent survey collected negative reviews from patients at Palomar Hospital—many described long waits, poor care, and unfriendly staff.

The comments show a range of troubling experiences and a call for better patient treatment.

All six local high school football teams lost their games this past Friday and Saturday—three teams lost by big margins and one did not play.

The Escondido Cougars lost a close 17 to 16 game to Westview while Calvin Christian forfeited, and teams will face new rivals later this week.

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.

Cinderella

7:00-8:30 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — Ticket info available — Experience the magical tale of Cinderella with a dazzling ballet performance featuring 40 international dancers and stunning costumes.

Toast - The Ultimate Bread Experience

7-8:30 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — $ — Experience pitch-perfect renditions of classic soft rock hits from the band Bread.

Matilda - The Musical

1:30-3:00 p.m. — California Center for the Arts, Escondido — $36 — Experience the magic of Roald Dahl's classic tale brought to life on stage.