Good morning, Escondido.

Neighbors Julissa Gomez — 27 and Delmar Harter — 85 became close in 2015 when Harter reached out after Gomez moved in, and they bonded through church and shared meals; their friendship went viral on TikTok and led to a co-written book that has inspired many to connect with their neighbors.

American Legion Post 365 will be open at normal hours on November 1 and serve its famous burgers in the afternoon—customers must park on the street or at the lot south of the post while repairs are made to the parking area.

Marine Riders arranged the construction work, estimated at about $11,000, as a token of thanks for the Post.

Miracle Field, established to give youngsters with disabilities a chance to play ball, will be upgraded with funding from the Padres — transforming the 18-year-old park into Padres Park.

Local volunteers in Escondido—coordinated by community organizers—are hosting a nursing home gift collection to provide gifts for residents as the holiday season approaches.

After a fatal crash on Monday near Lake Badin Avenue that killed a 12-year-old boy and seriously hurt his sisters while they walked to school, the city announced that a new stop sign—meant to slow traffic—will be installed at the San Carlos intersection within the next two weeks—neighbors have long campaigned for better safety.

International Ballet Stars will perform The Nutcracker at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido on November 30 at 2:00 p.m.—the ballet will feature hand-painted sets, over 200 costumes, and iconic choreography for a family-friendly holiday experience.

San Diego County conducted an emergency-response training exercise at McClellan-Palomar Airport Thursday—recreating a plane crash with multiple victims.

County staff, several public and private agencies and volunteers practiced coordinated rescue operations as part of the drill required every three years.

The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office reminds parents in Escondido to discuss safe driving habits with teens during National Teen Driver Safety Week from October 19th to 25th — emphasizing rules like no texting while driving and always buckling up to help reduce accidents among young drivers. The office advises that setting clear guidelines and leading by example can play a key role in keeping teen drivers safe.

Doctors at Rady Children's Hospital are worried by dangerously low flu vaccination rates among children in San Diego County, with only 12.9% of children five and under and under 10% of older children receiving a flu shot.

Last season saw 220 flu-related deaths—including seven among children—and experts fear this trend could lead to a severe flu season unless parents consult their pediatricians for more information.

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.