A round-up of news, community, entertainment, and business briefs from sdnews.com highlighting what’s happening in our community.
RUBIO’S AND PADRES TO OFFER FREE TACOS
Rubio’s Coastal Grill and the San Diego Padres are giving fans a steal of a deal during the 2023 MLB season. Each time the Padres steal a base at Petco Park, fans will score a free, à la carte Rubio’s taco (above), with any purchase, the day after the game. Padres fans will receive one taco of their choice, with the purchase of any menu item, on the day after the stolen base. Guests can order online, or through the app, and enter code GOPADRES, or mention the offer when visiting a restaurant.
HOMELESS ENCAMPMENT BILL
Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones, former San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer and other officials were scheduled to discuss bipartisan Senate Bill 31, which prohibits homeless encampments near schools, daycare centers, parks, and libraries, March 28 in the California Legislature. The bill requires enforcement officers to give a 72-hour notice before a sweep, and requires them to also provide information about sleeping alternatives, homeless and mental health services, and homeless shelters.
The measure was up for hearing in the California Senate Public Safety Committee. Over 2,000 Californians have signed a petition in support of SB 31. California has 30% of the nation’s homeless population while it has less than 12% of the U.S. total population. The state’s homelessness crisis has become a public health and safety crisis.
Modeled after a recent measure passed by the City of Los Angeles, Jones’s bipartisan bill seeks to help compassionately clear encampments and help connect homeless individuals to services they desperately need. SB 31 is meant to specifically protect sensitive community areas closest to our most vulnerable population – children who go to schools and daycare centers, play in parks, and read books at libraries.
BLADDER CANCER DETECTION
UC San Diego Health is the first health system in San Diego County to offer a new technology that detects and monitors bladder cancer in both the clinic and operating room settings by using blue light, white light and an imaging dye that makes cancer cells glow florescent pink. Called Blue Light Cystoscopy with Cysview, the FDA-approved procedure allows urologists to pinpoint tumors. About an hour prior to the clinic procedure, the imaging dye is placed into the bladder using a catheter.
“The availability of this new technology illustrates our commitment to advancing patient care,” said Christopher Kane, MD, urologist and chief executive officer of UC San Diego Health Physician Group. “At UC San Diego Health, patients with known or suspected bladder cancer undergo diagnostic procedures performed by physicians who have been specially trained in the use of this innovative technology.”
EDDIE V’S EASTER
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood at 1270 Prospect St. is offering a prix fixe three-course brunch menu of indulgent favorites on Easter Sunday, April 9, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. A La Carte dinner options are available as well as a dedicated children’s brunch menu. To learn more or to make a reservation, visit EddieV.com.
PADRES PIE AT PRINCE ST. PIZZA
Prince St. Pizza, Gaslamp Quarter’s newest addition, is launching a specialty “Padres Prosciutto Pie” (right) on Opening Day, March 30. The specialty pie will be available for a limited time to celebrate the season kickoff, featuring prosciutto, sliced mozzarella, spicy marinara sauce, basil, balsamic glaze and pecorino romano. The shop continues to serve San Diego slices of the East Coast’s delicious pizza and flair with Sicilian recipes that have been in the founding family for generations.
CONRAD COURTYARD CONCERTS
The Conrad‘s free courtyard concerts, launched last year, are returning for three months this spring. This year’s series at the concert venue at 7600 Fay Ave. in La Jolla is expanded to three months, with Traffic Jams kicking off on Friday, April 7 offering live jazz during rush hour. Midday Classics will present live classical music beginning on Tuesday, May 23. April celebrates National Jazz Month with flutist Lori Bell kicking off the courtyard concert series with an all-women jazz quartet featuring pianist Melonie Grinnell, bassist Evona Wascinski, and percussionist Monette Marino.
“With the opening of The Conrad in 2019, La Jolla Music Society gained an amazing new resource that can help us build and strengthen our connection to the community,” said Allison Boles, director of learning and engagement. “I hope the free concerts featuring talented local musicians will serve as a point of entry for many individuals and help us build excitement and engagement at The Conrad.”
ATHENAEUM SPRING ART
Athenaeum School of the Arts spring Zoom online art classes begin April 3 and continue through May 27. The course catalogue for Spring Session at the School of the Arts is live online. With offerings at La Jolla and Logan Heights studios, as well as online, there is a wide variety of classes for everyone at any level of experience. The school offers classes at two physical locations — La Jolla (1008 Wall St.) and the Athenaeum Art Center at Bread & Salt (1955 Julian Ave.) — as well as online on Zoom. Athenaeum students learn the history, traditions, and principles of the fine arts. School faculty are experienced artists and educators dedicated to inspiring students of all backgrounds. The school provides the opportunity for individualized instruction in its intimate class sizes, allowing students to develop their own styles and artistic identities. For more information on the benefits of becoming a member, visit ljathenaeum.org.
JCC LECTURE SERIES
Professor Jacob Goldberg is returning to San Diego and the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center, Jacobs Family Campus, 4126 Executive Drive to present his annual lecture series. A former senior advisor to Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak, he will be presenting the three-part lecture series: “Israel at 75: Is it on the Brink of Civil War?” centered on the current political landscape. All lectures will be taking place in person at the David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre.
PLAYWRIGHT PRESENTATION
“The Duck Variations” by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and author David Mamet will be presented on Saturday, April 1 at 2 p.m. at La Jolla Riford Library, 7555 Draper Ave. “The Duck Variations” is a 1972 short play with provocative comedic and dramatic elements and includes a discussion between two elderly men sitting on a park bench watching ducks. The dialogue begins with the mating habits of ducks and runs to examine law, friendship, happiness, and death. The play will star Fred Harlow and Byron LaDue. Tickets are available at the door for $10-$15. Cash only.
SPRING BREAK SAFETY
Recently, the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department Lifeguard Division and San Diego Police shared important information regarding beach and bay safety during spring break, which unofficially began March 24. SDFD lifeguards typically see an increase in visitors and activity at Mission Bay, one of the nation’s top destinations for aquatic enthusiasts. When the weather is warm, there is also a noted increase in beach visitors this time of year. “Lifeguards and police officers patrolling the beaches and Mission Bay want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable experience,” said Lifeguard Chief James Gartland. “Boaters and passengers should learn safety regulations before operating a vessel and be aware of individuals illegally renting vessels.”
Regarding Mission Bay, Gartland said: “Safety out there is paramount. We’re definitely out there making sure people (boaters) keep their speed at a proper level in proper areas. We also ask that, whatever you pack into the beach, you pack out. Listen to what lifeguards are telling you to do. We are trained observers and we can see where the rip currents are. We know you’re in danger before you’re in danger.”
With more than 40 miles of oceanfront and bay shoreline to patrol throughout the city, SDFD lifeguards help keep an average of 17 million visitors safe and conduct an estimated 7,000 rescues at local beaches each year. Additionally, lifeguards manage cliff, scuba and swift water rescues, enforce boating safety regulations and respond to emergencies involving seafaring vessels and other watercraft. The San Diego Police Department has a full-time beach team whose members patrol the sand, boardwalks and Mission Bay.
BOYS TO MEN
An evening celebrating 25 years of changing the lives of young men in San Diego with Boys to Men Mentoring Network will be Saturday, April 22 at 6 p.m. at Catamaran Resort Hotel, 3999 Mission Blvd. The event will feature special guest and Grammy Award-winning artist Jason Mraz with Gregory Page, Carlos Olmeda, and Greg Gerson. Don’t miss the inaugural presentation of Boys To Men’s Community Hero Award to Shaun Tomson for his nine years of sharing his stoke and raising funds for the community. For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or to purchase tickets call, visit boystomen.org/25th-celebration.
EASTER BRUNCHES
Easter Champagne brunch buffet at Oceana Coastal Kitchen (Catamaran Resort), takes place April 9, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Details/menu at catamaranresort.com/easter-brunch. Easter Champagne brunch buffet at Dockside 1953 (Bahia Resort), will be April 9, 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Details/menu at bahiahotel.com/easter-brunch. Both brunches will be holding egg hunts for the kids and a complimentary ticket to cruise on the William D. Evans sternwheeler. Onboard, kids can partake in arts and crafts and visit with the Easter Bunny while adults imbibe mimosa and Bloody Mary specials. There will also be live entertainment.
A.R. Valentien at The Lodge at Torrey Pines, 11480 N Torrey Pines Road, will also be holding an Easter brunch, April 9, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Easter Brunch and mini-egg hunt, The Cottage in La Jolla, 7702 Fay Ave. Kids and adults alike can hunt for candy eggs and dining vouchers. Info: cottagelajolla.com.
MEDITATING SENIORS
Vi at La Jolla Village, a senior living community at 8515 Costa Verde Blvd., is embracing meditation and mindfulness programming, to promote a sense of peace and relaxation that can be difficult to achieve in today’s fast-paced world. The practice, which occurs every Tuesday in the community, has become a favorite. Additionally, on every third Tuesday of the month, sound baths are incorporated to promote a higher level of wellness. Sound baths, a type of meditation that involves the use of various sound frequencies, have also become increasingly popular among older adults and seniors. The vibrations produced by the sound frequencies can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, while also aiding in pain relief and improving mental clarity. In partnering with Teri Wilder, a sound healing master in San Diego, the residents are able to add a new skill to their wheelhouse, that they can use in their everyday lives.
BEAUTIFULPB PROGRESSING
“For art, we’re continuing to work on a new mural project with Audubon,” said Katie Matchett, president of beautifulPB, a nonprofit working to implement community projects and programs that create a more sustainable, equitable, and beautiful community. “We’ll be choosing an artist in the next month and hope to have it installed over the summer.”
Regarding progress on communitywide mobility, Matchett said the City’s preliminary design for Diamond Street went to the Pacific Beach Planning Group’s Streets and Sidewalks committee “and will be presented to the full group on April 12.” She added the City is moving away from the “Slow Street” term for Diamond, as “they’ve received federal money to develop an official Slow Street program for San Diego. But it will be another year or two before that program is fully implemented.”
Upcoming events: Saturday, April 8, PB Pedal Party bike ride through PB, ending with a meeting (location TBD) for folks to learn more about beautifulPB.
VITERBI VISION GROUNDBREAKING
UC San Diego leaders broke ground for the new Viterbi Family Vision Research Center, slated to focus on glaucoma blindness, retinal degeneration and reversing vision loss on March 24. The ceremony launched construction of the new Viterbi Family Vision Research Center at Shiley Eye Institute, supported by a $50 million gift from philanthropist Andrew J. Viterbi.
The 5-story, 100,000-square-foot facility will house laboratories, clinical trials operations, administrative and educational spaces to support a variety of research efforts, including curing glaucoma blindness, restoring vision of those blinded by retinal degeneration and providing sight to individuals who have reversible vision loss due to cataracts or infections. The Hanna and Mark Gleiberman Center for Glaucoma Research, funded by a $20 million gift from the Gleibermans, will be housed in the new building.
SD VEGAN FESTIVAL
The inaugural San Diego Vegan Festival launches Saturday, April 15 at Waterfront Park, 1600 Pacific Highway, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with free admission for an estimated 5,000 attendees. This event will have 70 vendors serving up food, drinks, desserts, apparel, local nonprofits and more all 100% vegan. Learn more about the vegan lifestyle from eight nonprofit exhibitors and three speaker panels throughout the day. Attendees are highly encouraged to take public transit, with the County Center/Little Italy stop only two blocks away from Waterfront Park. Ridesharing, carpooling and bicycling are also encouraged. Full event details can be found at veganinsandiego.com/veganfest2023/
FIVE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY
Mavericks Beach Club at 860 Garnet Ave. will celebrate its fifth anniversary on Wednesday, April 5 with a big top for the big five at their circus-themed anniversary party. From 9 p.m. to close, guests can enjoy over-the-top circus performers, magic acts, live music, aerial artists, and more.
CARLSBAD FLOWER FIELDS
The Flower Fields with new 2023 week-day specials including Mondays: With the purchase of one adult or one senior/military, you receive one child’s ticket free (ages 3-10), Tuesdays and Wednesdays: Between 1-4 p.m, receive $2 off adults, seniors/military and children tickets. The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch will host to CRY Holi: A Festival of Colors on April 1. There will be music, dancing, color play, traditional food vendors, jewelry and clothing vendors, entertainment, and much more.
PASSPORT ASSISTANCE
Rep. Scott Peters (CA-50) has informed constituents of unprecedented demand for international travel and available passport assistance. “I urge the people I represent to check their passports before making any reservation as many international tickets are non-refundable,” said Peters. “Due to heightened demand, the US Passport Agency indicated that expedited services are reserved for emergencies and special life events, such as a wedding or funeral. On average, my office is receiving 30 requests every week for assistance with passports. Although my staff cannot guarantee any outcome, they can help if you are traveling for one of the aforementioned reasons.”
The U.S. State Department is currently receiving half a million applications for passports every week, and recently updated processing times to 10-13 weeks for routine processing and 7-9 weeks for expedited processing. Recommendations for those traveling for work, family emergencies or significant life events: If you are applying for a new passport or passport renewal, consider paying the $60 expedited service fee along with your application fee. If your passport or renewal application is already pending, you may contact the district office no sooner than two weeks before your travel date. If you have not submitted a passport or renewal application and have planned departure within two weeks, you may contact the district office. If you would like to have your application expedited, please provide documented proof of travel need (e.g., wedding invitation, note from doctor, letter from supervisor). For help with passports visit Congressman Peters’ website.
NORTH PARK BEER FESTIVAL
The North Park Festival of Beers returns outside the historic Lafayette Hotel, 2223 El Cajon Blvd., Saturday, April 1, from noon-4 p.m. for a day devoted to two of San Diego’s best known exports – music and craft beer. Enjoy tastes of over 80 beers from more than 40 breweries, as well as hard kombucha, cider, spirits, live music, local vendors and great food. For more information on the North Park Festival of Beers and to purchase tickets, visit northparkbeerfest.com.
GASLAMP FINAL FOUR
Come cheer on SDSU as the Gaslamp Quarter is transformed into the ultimate game-day watch zone on April 1 starting at 8 a.m. and runs through the final game of the day on Island Avenue between 4th and 5th avenues. Enjoy all-ages beverage garden, basketball hoop shot games, vendors selling merch to deck out fans, and an exclusive outdoor viewing experience on the big screen. For more information on the Gaslamp Quarter, visit gaslamp.org.
SD BLACK CHAMBER
The County of San Diego Black Chamber of Commerce will hold a “A Woman’s Worth’ Event” celebrating trailblazing women of color Friday, March 31 from 6-8 p.m. at UCSD Park & Market, 1100 Market St. with live entertainment and networking opportunities. The event will feature a dynamic panel discussion of trailblazing Black women who will share personal stories and insights on navigating systemic barriers and societal expectations to achieve their goals. In addition to the panel discussion, attendees can enjoy a night of food, entertainment, networking, and an awards presentation. For more information, visit sdblackchamber.org.
BIKE ANYWHERE DAY
SANDAG Bike Anywhere Day (formerly Bike to Work Day) is happening Thursday, May 18, from 6 to 9 a.m. This is a great opportunity for small and new businesses to support biking and bikeway projects by hosting a pit stop in their community, while event participants GO by BIKE to the beach, park, work, school, or… anywhere. Here’s what you need to know: Thousands pledge to participate every year. There will be 100 pit stops throughout the San Diego region. Pit stop hosts provide snacks, drinks, engaging activities, and give out free commemorative t-shirts (provided by SANDAG). Hosts are required to attend an instructional webinar prior to the event and pick up pit stop materials on Tuesday, May 16. Apply by Friday, March 31. To learn more about being Bike Anywhere Day, visit the SANDAG.org/BikeMonth.
NEW HOMELESS DIRECTOR
Mayor Todd Gloria announced that Hafsa Kaka, director of the city’s Homelessness Strategies and Solutions Department, has accepted another yet-to-be announced role of “regional significance in the area of homelessness.” City hall veteran Sarah Jarman, a former assistant deputy director in the department who once worked on housing policy for ex-City Councilman Scott Sherman, will take over the post effective April 3.
CHICANA EXHIBITION
“Celia Álvarez Muñoz: Breaking the Binding” is now on view at the Museum of Contemporary Art until Aug. 13. MCASD presents the first career retrospective of Texas-born, Conceptual artist Celia Álvarez Muñoz (b. 1937). Spanning forty years of her career, the exhibition features over 35 artworks – including six large-scale immersive installations, photographic series, and book projects. Muñoz often draws inspiration from her lived experience as a resident of the United States-Mexico borderlands.Plan your visit to MCASD’s flagship location in La Jolla, 700 Prospect St., open Thursday-Sunday from 10 a.m.
BEACH BUNNY BASH
Before Easter, on Saturday, April 1, hop on over to Seaport Village for some fun in the sun. Snap your festive photo of the kids “surfing” with Seaport’s Beach Bunny on a life-sized ocean wave prop. While you’re there, explore dozens of shops and eateries.
SEALS @ PECHANGA
The Seals are back at Pechanga Arena San Diego, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd., on Friday, March 31 to take on the Calgary Roughnecks for Latin Heritage Night. There will be pregame lucha libre matches starting at 5 p.m., plus lowriders, mariachi, food trucks, and drinks. Faceoff is at 7 p.m. Get your tickets now for the party.
RENEWABLE ENERGY COMMITMENT
The San Diego Community Power Board unanimously approved a proposal by County Board of Supervisors vice chair Terra Lawson-Remer and Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre to formally commit the agency to achieving 100 percent renewable power within the next 12 years. “We have done the work of adopting bold goals aimed at reducing our carbon emissions. Today we moved forward accountability for real action and data on follow-through in confronting the existential crisis of our time,” said Lawson-Remer. “With the climate crisis at our doorstep, there is no trying. We have to deliver.”
The level of renewable energy San Diego Community Power provides to its customers is key to fulfilling the region’s commitments to achieving carbon neutrality and energy independence in the fight against climate change. The community-owned organization purchases power provided to residents and businesses in the cities of San Diego, Chula Vista, Encinitas, Imperial Beach, La Mesa, and, beginning in April, National City, as well as the unincorporated communities of San Diego County.
SAFE PARKING LOT
The San Diego City Council unanimously approved a plan proposed by Mayor Todd Gloria to open a new safe parking lot in the Clairemont neighborhood that will include live-in-ready camper trailers as well as free, safe parking for people who sleep overnight in their vehicles. “During the past two years, the City has added dramatically to the range of options available for folks to get off the streets and on a path to housing,” said Gloria. “With city council approval, we’re now ready to create yet another safe place for unsheltered residents to stay while case managers help them connect to a permanent home.” Specifically, the City Council approved a proposal by the City’s Homelessness Strategies and Solutions Department to amend a contract with Jewish Family Service of San Diego to operate the new lot, located near the City’s Rose Canyon Operations Yard.
The lot will operate 24 hours a day and provide a safe place for unhoused residents to sleep overnight in their vehicles, with access to resources to help participants on their path to housing, including employment assistance, credit repair, financial education and more. To learn more about the Safe Parking Program, visit the Homelessness Strategies and Solutions webpage.
AIRPORT SEEKS CANDIDATES
The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority (Airport Authority) is seeking candidates to fill a vacancy on the Audit Committee. Candidates must meet at least one of the following qualifications: An architect or civil engineer licensed to practice in the State of California. A professional with experience in the field of real estate or land economics. A person with public or private sector executive level decision making experience. A person with experience in managing construction of large-scale public works projects. A person who resides within the airport influences area of the San Diego International Airport. A person with experience in environmental justice as it pertains to land use. The application deadline is Friday, March 31, by 5 p.m. Interested candidates can contact Board Services/Authority Clerk at (619) 400-2550 or [email protected]. For more information on what the role entails, see the Audit Committee Charter here san.org/Airport-Authority/Chief-Auditor.
PETCO OPENING DAY
After ranking all 30 MLB stadiums, USA Today named Petco Park as top dog. Calling it the “perfect” ballpark, USA Today noted the stadium’s stunning view of the downtown skyline, Gallagher Square and the delectable bites to eat at the park as reasons for giving the honor to San Diego. Padres Opening Day is Thursday, March 30 hosting the Colorado Rockies at Petco Park with the first pitch is at 6:40 p.m. Blake Snell is set to be the starting pitcher. With over 14,000 pitches thrown in his MLB career, this season’s Opening Day will mark Snell’s 160th game as a starting pitcher. Snell has struck out 989 basemen throughout his career, which started after he was selected by the Tampa Bay Rays in the 2011 draft.
PORT CAREER FAIR
The Port of San Diego is hosting the first People of the Port Career Fair Friday, April 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the InterContinental San Diego Hotel, 901 Bayfront Ct. Nearly 40 bayfront businesses are participating and will have job openings for people at all education, skill, and experience levels.For more information, including the latest list of employers that will be represented, tips for success, and educational sessions that will be held during the event, go to portofsandiego.org/careerfair.
SPRING HAS SPRUNG
A runner heads down the Mission Bay Park path around Crown Point past blooming flowers on Friday, March 24. Spring officially started on March 20 and after all the late winter rain storms, San Diego should have a colorful couple months as it slides into summer.
PCPB BOARD ELECTIONS
Receiving the most votes in the Peninsula Community Planning Board’s annual election on March 16 were Mandy Havlik, 83 votes; Angela Vedder, 81 votes; Eric Law, 30 votes; Jack Fernandes, 26 votes; and Andrew Hollingworth, 19 votes. All five were elected to three-year terms on the advisory group board expiring in 2026. The Peninsula Community Planning Board (PCPB) holds an annual election every March to fill five openings. Board terms are three years, with exception of unexpired terms which may also be filled at the March election. Requirements for those interested in becoming a PCPB board member: Candidates must be 18 years of age. Candidates must reside, own property, or operate a business within the PCPB boundaries. Candidates must have attended one regular PCPB meeting within the previous 12-month term. Attending the candidates forum qualifies for this requirement.
The Peninsula Community Planning area encompasses about 4,409 acres (approximately 7 square miles) and is bounded by Ocean Beach (split off and founded in 1975) and the Pacific Ocean on the west and south, The San Diego River Flood Control Channel and the Midway community on the north, and San Diego Bay and Port tidelands on the east. The Peninsula community is a highly urbanized community, comprised of a number of relatively distinct residential neighborhoods including Ocean Beach Highlands, Point Loma Highlands, Loma Alta, Loma Palisades, Loma Portal, Fleetridge, Roseville, Sunset Cliffs, Wooded Area, La Playa, and Liberty Station.
LPE AUCTION
The Loma Portal Elementary School auction may be over, but there are still ways to make it an even bigger success. The school is only $700 away from its $10,000 goal to upgrade the LPE Auditorium. If you weren’t at the event, check out the amazing video the kids helped make showing why the auditorium needs some TLC.
ACTING COACH RETURNS
Point Loma Playhouse is welcoming back DeAnna Driscoll, a superb acting coach and teacher. While in San Diego, Driscoll will be starring in the world premiere of the play “Sharon” soon to open at the Cygnet theater in Old Town. During her short stay here, Driscoll has consented to present her class “Physical Acting” at ActLiveNow in Liberty Station. Physical Acting takes you up the next step in understanding, absorbing and realizing you’re on-stage character. Physical Acting will commence on Monday, May 15 for six weeks. It is instruction strongly recommend for actors wanting to expand their talents and raise their careers to the next level. Registration is limited to 10 members and, from previous experience, Driscoll’s classes fill quickly. See details at ActLiveNow.com.
PUCKS & PINTS
San Diego Breweries’ fifth annual Pucks & Pints charity hockey game and festival is set for Saturday, April 8. Pucks & Pints is a charity hockey event created in 2018 by hockey-loving beer industry insiders. While the main breweries organizing the event are Thorn Brewing, Stone Brewing, Societe Brewing, and Modern Times/Maui Brewing, the event is 100% volunteer based with support from breweries all over San Diego. Pucks & Pints is a full day of hockey and craft beer for a purpose. The event begins by cheering on players representing breweries and brewpubs from all across the county at the Brewers Charity Game. Followed by beer, barbecue and raffles at the Craft Beer Festival at Modern Times. Close out the night by attending the San Diego Gulls’ last home game of the season, (it’s Fan-Appreciation night). All proceeds raised are donated to Resque Ranch, Emilio Nares Foundation, Boys & Girls Club of Greater San Diego, and the San Diego Brewers Guild.
C-SPAN CONTEST WINNERS
C-SPAN announced that students at Correia Middle School in Point Loma are winners in C-SPAN’s national 2023 StudentCam competition. The following students have won prizes: Sophie de la Houssaye and Whitney Huzmich will receive $750 as third prize winners for the documentary, “Human Trafficking: Teach Our Youth or Leave Them in the Dark?”; Lilah Harris and Victoria Stout will receive $250 as honorable mention prize winners for the documentary, “No Place Like Home,” about affordable housing; and Katherine Fleming and Anna Wang will receive $250 as honorable mention prize winners for the documentary, “160 Miles to Home,” about the Endangered Species Act.
C-SPAN, in cooperation with its cable television partners, asked middle and high school students to engage in a national conversation on the challenges our country is facing with the theme: “If you were a newly elected member of Congress, which issue would be your first priority and why?” Now in its 19th year, this project-based learning experience gives students the opportunity to explore multiple perspectives on topics that are important to them and consider solutions to address them. In response, nearly 3,000 students participated, and C-SPAN received over 1,500 entries from 40 states, Washington, D.C. and Abu Dhabi.
CAMPBELL SUPPORTS NEW PIER
District 2 Councilmember Dr. Jennifer Campbell supports the OB Pier Replacement Project as a permanent solution along with the OB Taskforce overseeing the project, which was created to review and recommend the best plan for the OB Pier. The pier has been closed for months for safety reasons. Winter storms have damaged the pier numerous times in recent years, and there is significant wear and tear to the pier columns.
“The OB Pier is a San Diego treasure, but recent storms along with wear and tear have damaged the pier extensively,” said Campbell. “As a result, the pier has been closed numerous times at the expense of San Diegans. Because repairs are too costly, the best solution is a replacement project. San Diegans deserve a new, and state-of-the art pier so they can enjoy it for generations.”
HISTORICAL HOMES
At its January meeting, the City of San Diego Historical Resources Board designated six historic buildings, including one two-story house in Point Loma at 3425 Xenophon St., to be historical. The Xenophon residence is a two-story home built in 1937 in the Spanish Colonial Revival style with a Monterey-style cantilevered second-floor balcony covered by the primary roof. The Carl and Ethel Mae Sharp House meets HRB Criterion C for retaining key elements of these two architectural styles. These include a low-pitched, combined hipped-and-gabled roof with minimal eave overhang; smooth stucco and wood cladding; brick chimney; asymmetrical primary facade; multi-light and single-light wood-framed windows; and French doors.
SPRING FLING
Spring has sprung and the City of San Diego’s Parks and Recreation Department is ready to celebrate the season through spring-themed special events at recreation centers across the City including egg hunts, scavenger hunts, Earth Day celebrations and more running through Saturday, April 22. Nearly 50 events are planned at recreation centers and parks in all San Diego communities, with events scheduled at times throughout the day, including some evening programs in collaboration with Parks After Dark.
HELP A CHARITY
Grab a sub and lend a hand: Head to Jersey Mike’s Subs on Wednesday, March 29 and 100 percent of your purchase will go to charity. On Jersey Mike’s nationwide Day of Giving, the hardworking teams at 56 Jersey Mike’s locations in the San Diego area will give every single dollar in sales, not just the profit, to Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego. All month, customers have been making donations at nearly 2,500 Jersey Mike’s locations nationwide during the 13th Annual “Month of Giving” fundraising campaign for local charities.
COFFEE WITH LACAVA
Arts+Culture San Diego is sponsoring a Coffee with District 1 Councilmember Joe LaCava on Thursday, April 6 from 9-10 a.m. at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, 700 Prospect St. RSVP by March 31 to [email protected]
ELMORE COSTA CELEBRATED
San Diego Actors Theatre Celebrates artistic director Patricia Elmore Costa’s 50/50 Career: 50 years as a theatre artist, 50 years as an educator This year, Patricia Elmore Costa celebrates 50 years as a professional theatre artist working as an actor, director, writer and producer in Chicago and San Diego. She’s also celebrating 50 years as an educator with a background of teaching all grade levels. The San Diego Actors Theatre celebrates these incredible milestones with a series of staged readings beginning with David Mamet’s Duck Variations April 1, at 2 p.m, at the La Jolla Riford Library, 7555 Draper Ave.
CARNIVAL FOR CLIMATE
On Saturday, April 15, Carnival for Climate will kick off Earth Week for hundreds of San Diegans with fun-filled activities from noon to 4 p.m. at Centro Cultural de la Raza, 2004 Park Blvd, in Balboa Park. Carnival for Climate is a family-friendly festival with climate-themed carnival games, circus and musical performers, face painting, and carnival food, with opportunities for learning about ways to take action for a more sustainable future. Several environmental and climate organizations will table at the event. All proceeds from the event benefit SanDiego350 and will support local climate action. Read more at https://carnival4climate.org.
CLIMATE BILL INTRODUCED
Assemblymember Chris Ward (D-San Diego) has introduced the Housing and Climate Solutions Act, AB 68, legislation that will advance California’s history of strong climate leadership by directly linking housing policy and the state’s response to climate change. The bill would make it faster and easier to build more homes near jobs, schools, transit, and other resources, while adding provisions to state law that will help protect Californians from increasingly frequent and severe wildfires and floods. AB 68 includes measures to help reduce the pollution that causes climate change; protect open lands that remove carbon emissions from the atmosphere; and make our communities more resilient to fires, floods, drought, and other climate impacts. “Our housing and climate crises are intertwined, and our solutions must be too,” said Ward. “Our current land-use policies have left unchecked sprawl that puts more Californians in harm’s way, increases climate pollution, and strains infrastructure. AB 68 will make sure local governments follow their existing plans to build needed infill housing in climate-safe areas, and enable more Californians to live in walkable neighborhoods near jobs, schools, and transit.”
PARKINSON’S 5K WALK
The Parkinson’s Association of San Diego is holding its 21st annual Step by Step 5k Walk at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 1 at Liberty Station. CBS News 8 anchor Carlo Cecchetto will emcee the event. Register at parkinsonsassociation.org or call 858-215-2570. Proceeds enable the PASD to continue to make critical resources available to thousands of San Diego County residents who have or are affected by Parkinson’s. All funds raised from the event stay within San Diego County. The donation is $50, Youth 12 to 17 are $10 and children under 12 are free. The donations are tax-deductible and include a T-shirt. The walk is dog friendly.
NEW MUSEUM DIRECTOR
The San Diego Chinese Historical Museum announced Jacinta S. Wong as the new SDCHM executive director. A recent transplant to San Diego, Wong holds over 20 years of management experience working in the nonprofit and government sectors in Chicago. Wong was integral in creating programs in multiple city departments including the Board of Ethics and Department of Buildings. As executive director, Wong will be responsible for working with the SDCHM Board to develop and implement the museum’s strategic plan, oversee staff and volunteers and manage the museum’s operations and finances, as well as conducting fundraising and community outreach.
EASTER AT GEORGE’S
George’s at the Cove, 1250 Prospect St., doesn’t typically serve brunch, but Easter Sunday, April 9 is one of the few exceptions for the restaurant. Executive chef Masa Kojima, pastry chef Aly Lyng, and the entire kitchen staff welcome guests for Easter Brunch from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Brunch will be served only indoors in Level 2, which still offers floor-to-ceiling views of La Jolla Cove. Reservations can be made here.
THE BOSS AT PECHANGA
Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band have added two new North American dates to their 2023 international tour, announcing a long-awaited return to San Diego on Dec. 2 at Pechanga Arena, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd. Tickets went go on sale March 24 via axs.com.
SERVICE TO ATLANTA
Ultra-low fare carrier Frontier Airlines will launch new seasonal nonstop daily service from San Diego International Airport to Atlanta in May. With the new service, Frontier will serve a total of six nonstop destinations from SAN. To celebrate, it is offering fares of $79.
LITTLE ITALY ACQUISITIONS
GBOD Hospitality Group, the San Diego-based creators behind Gaslamp Quarter hot spots Mezé Greek Fusion, El Chingon, Prohibition Lounge, and Havana 1920, has acquired Little Italy dining destinations Bencotto Italian Kitchen, and Monello. Founded by husband-and-wife Guido Nistri and Valentina Di Pietro, the restaurants have remained open through the transition and operations are unaffected by the acquisition. Bencotto Italian Kitchen is at 750 W. Fir St. Located next door, Monello is a Milanese kitchen applauded for its decadent cheese wheel pastas. For more information, visit GBODGroup.com.
SDUSD ART EXHIBITION
Works of art from students of all ages are now displayed in the hallways at the San Diego Unified School District headquarters, Eugene Brucker Education Center, 4100 Normal St. The various works include paintings, drawings, photographs, and other forms of visual art. With a goal of identifying creations that uniquely captured a student’s voice and vision, art educators throughout the district were tasked with the difficult assignment of submitting the various works to be shown. For those unable to attend the exhibit in person, a companion online version featuring approximately 350 works is available. The online exhibit includes a mix of creations shown at the Ed Center, as well as additional material displayed exclusively online.
AUTOMAKERS SUED
San Diego City Attorney Mara W. Elliott has sued carmakers Hyundai and Kia for failing to install standard anti-theft technology in their cars, a business practice it is claimed makes their vehicles dangerously and unreasonably susceptible to theft. The lawsuit, filed on behalf of the People of the State of California, covers the period 2011 through 2021, during which, it alleges, the two companies were a “glaring exception” to industry norms by manufacturing vehicles that could be stolen with “relative ease” using “tools no more advanced than a USB cable.”
“Making sure cars are not easy to steal keeps dangerous drivers in stolen vehicles off the road,” Elliott said. “Hyundai’s and Kia’s decisions to put cost savings and profits over public safety has had significant consequences for San Diego and its residents, leading to a substantial increase in vehicle thefts, reckless driving, related crime sprees, and public harm.”
The lawsuit alleges that car thefts consume scarce law enforcement and emergency resources, deprive the public of safe streets and sidewalks, and increase violence when would-be thieves are confronted. It alleges that the companies’ conduct created a public nuisance that could have been avoided had they followed industry-wide standards and installed immobilizers at a cost of roughly $200 per vehicle.
MILLIONTH RIDER
SeaWorld San Diego is celebrating the one-year anniversary of its Emperor coaster by giving guests the opportunity to be the millionth rider since opening just over a year ago. If you’re lucky number 1,000,000, you’ll be the first person to ride Arctic Rescue. Join in and brave California’s tallest and fastest floorless dive coaster featuring a heart-pounding 14-story, 90-degree drop, three thrilling inversions, and top speeds of 60 miles per hour.
SPRING AT SUNSET CLIFFS
Experience spring at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park (left) on Saturday, March 18 from 9-11 a.m. See more than 40 species of native plants in full bloom in the “Demonstration Garden” overlooking located on the south side of the Ladera Street parking lot in Sunset Cliffs Natural Park Cliffs. Hosted by the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park Council and Friends of Sunset Cliffs. Questions? Contact Rosamaria at 619-890-2828 or SunsetCliffsNaturalPark.org. (Photo by Thomas Melville)
AT LEAST 8 DEAD AFTER TWO BOATS CAPSIZED
On March 12, at least eight people died after two smuggling boats capsized on Black’s Beach in San Diego County, officials said. San Diego Fire-Rescue Department lifeguards responded to a 911 call on Saturday around 11:30 p.m. The 911 caller, a woman speaking Spanish, described two panga boats that had capsized near Torrey Pines beach.
“One boat carrying eight people made it to shore, while another boat carrying 15, overturned in the surf,” said Capt. James Spitler, sector commander for the US Coast Guard in San Diego.
James Gartland, the head of the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department’s lifeguard division, said that lifeguards tried to save people from the water. But the first rescuers are not available to approach the beach because of the high tide and had to wade through deep water. When rescuers and federal agents arrived, both boats were already capsized.
All eight victims were adults and nationalities are uncertain, according to Gartland. The bodies were transferred to the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s office, fire department officials said. It is not clear the cause of why the boats were capsized, and how many people may still be missing.
COACH JOE COULD USE SOME HELP
Coach Joe is an 83-year-old tennis coach at Pacific Beach Community Recreation Center in San Diego. He used to teach at Bishop’s School in La Jolla when it was an all-female school and coached at Cathedral Catholic High School. He truly loves tennis and tries to make great lessons full of joy and excitement. A lot of his former students and members of this community loved him coaching tennis.
Currently, he can’t coach people anymore because he needs a hip replacement. He only has Social Security and suffers from severe pain. Now, he is also suffering from financial problems. He needs help with rent, insurance payments, utility bills, and other living expenses to maintain his daily life. If you can help out, he could fix his car and drive to other places and not only Pacific Beach. He has been genuinely touched by people’s help so far and is finding vitality of his life again. For anyone who wants to know more about Coach Joe and help him, you can donate through GoFundMe. Visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-coach-joe?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_content=undefined&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer&utm_term=undefined
FISH FARM PROTEST
On March 14, several dozen San Diego fishermen, chefs, and residents joined together to voice their opposition to the proposed Pacific Ocean AquaFarms fish farm. This 28 pen facility would be built three miles off the coast of Mission Bay and raise 5,000 metric tons of California yellowtail a year. Specifically, rally attendees called on Don Kent, president of Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute, to halt SeaWorld’s technical and institutional support of this fish farm.
“An industrial fish farm off the coast of San Diego would be an ecological nightmare,” said Phillip Musegaas, executive director of San Diego Coastkeeper. “This project would directly pollute our coastal waters and pose a huge risk to humpback and gray whales, along with other marine life, which could get entangled in its floating nets. We need to focus on restoring our oceans, not industrializing them.”
About 30 rally-goers gathered at Ski Beach on Tuesday directly across the bridge from the theme park to highlight this issue and the conflict between SeaWorld’s conservation work and its support for this plan. A mix of college students and community members flanked the speakers holding signs that said “Forget The Fish Farm” and “Let Fishermen Fish.” There are proposed fish farm sites up the Southern California coast as far north as the Santa Barbara Channel. The one in San Diego, however, would be the first commercial finfish farm in federal waters. Don’t Cage Our Oceans is a diverse, nation-wide coalition of organizations and businesses fighting offshore fish farming, while uplifting values-based seafood systems led by local communities. Visit https://dontcageouroceans.org.
COMMUNITY HAPPY HOUR
Bird Rock Community Council is re-instituting its community happy hours starting Wednesday, March 22 from 5-7 p.m. at Beaumont’s, 5662 La Jolla Blvd. Bring your friends and meet your neighbors for a lively conversation about the beach community. Visit birdrockcc.org for more details.
ART GALLERY OPENING
On Thursday, March 16 from 10 a.m.-8 p.m., join in the free Third Thursday for the opening of the two newest special exhibitions at Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego’s flagship Joan and Irwin Jacobs Building, 700 Prospect St. in La Jolla: Celia Álvarez Muñoz: Breaking the Binding and Griselda Rosas: Yo te cuido. On view from March 16 to Aug. 13 in the Iris and Matthew Strauss Galleries, experience murals, photography, and gallery-sized installations in this retrospective of the acclaimed Chicana artist Celia Álvarez Muñoz. Also making its debut in the David C. Copley Gallery, is the first solo museum exhibition of San Diego and Tijuana-based Griselda Rosas, presenting new sculptural installations and inventive textile drawings, several of which are collaborations with the artist’s young son. San Diego and Tijuana-based Cumbia band, La Diabla will perform from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
ALESMITH BREWING HONORS GWYNN
AleSmith Brewing Company announced the release of its limited edition Double Up Double IPA (right), an homage to legend Tony Gwynn and his time playing basketball at San Diego State University. Featuring artwork by San Diego muralists, Paul Jimenez and Signe Ditona of Ground Floor Murals, this beer celebrates the iconic achievements of one of SDSU’s all-time greats. The name of the beer pays tribute to one of Gwynn’s most famous moments in March 1981. In the same week, Gwynn recorded 16 points and 16 assists against New Mexico and then 5 RBIs in seven at-bats against USC College. This was a truly remarkable double dip performance that became known as “The Double Dip Week” among college basketball fans everywhere. Double Up Double IPA is a West Coast-style Double India Pale Ale that packs a punch. This 8% ABV brew surges with juicy hop flavor and aroma. Citra, Amarillo, and Cascade hops provide an intensely fruity character with notes of citrus, melon, and sweet fruit. A generous amount of carefully selected malts lend a firm backbone of malt sweetness that allows the hops to shine. This brew will be available on draft and in 16 ounce 4-pack cans featuring the art of Ground Floor Murals on the label.
UCSD CHAIR NAMED SOCIETY PRESIDENT
Cynthia Gyamfi-Bannerman, MD, MS, chair of the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences at University of California San Diego School of Medicine has been named as the 2023 president-elect of the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM). SMFM is the leading society and national voice for more than 5,500 highly qualified maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) subspecialist physicians, as well as scientists, nurses, genetic counselors, ultrasound technicians and administrators, with expertise in high-risk pregnancy and collaboration for optimal and equitable perinatal outcomes.
TALK OF THE TOWN
The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library at 1008 Wall St. will toast the town in their version of the exuberant art scene of the 1920s at the Talk of the Town benefit on Friday, April 14, at 6:30 p.m., its first fundraising event since 2019. The occasion will celebrate the Athenaeum’s past and bright future at the historic William Templeton Johnson building in downtown La Jolla that opened in 1921. Guests are encouraged to dress in their finest 1920s attire, and as a favorite cultural figure from the 1920s if they choose.
Available will be delicacies and indulgences to be expected from a party worthy of the Great Gatsby. There will be an open bar with 1920s cocktails, and food will be plentiful. They invite guests to walk around and enjoy demonstrations of the many offerings of the Athenaeum. There will be jazz music, a live art demonstration by Andrew Alcasid (whose exhibition will be on view in their Clayes Gallery), a photo opportunity with a vintage car, a 1920s dance demonstration, and a silent auction. Purchase needed by April 1 to guarantee entry. Visit ljathenaeum.org.
BEAUTIFUL PB GRANT
BeautifulPB has received a grant in partnership with the San Diego Audubon Society to bring new murals into the heart of Pacific Beach that highlight the important animals and habitats right here in the neighborhood. BeautifulPB is currently seeking an artist/artist team to create an inspiring outdoor mural or mosaic that “brings the bay into the local Pacific Beach Community.” The budget for this project is $5,500, including a stipend for design, materials, wall prep, and labor for the mural. For additional information and to apply, use the link here. Applications are due April 3.
BFREE EXHIBITION
BFREE Studio run by gallery owner Barbara Freeman announced the next exhibition by artist Peter Fay running March 21-April 8 at the studio at 7857 Girard Ave. Fay’s worldwide travels have provided a constant source of inspiration and material for his expansive portfolio. He has captured award-winning photographic treasures in exotic locales across the globe. His fusion of light, color, and forms create powerful dramatic images spanning genres of landscape, portraiture, wildlife, documentary and fine art photography. Fay’s exhibition, titled “The Way I See It,” is composed of 60 pieces structured into four groupings highlighting Fay’s interests: Nature, Portraiture, Americana and Automobiles shared in an unusual way – 20 of the pieces are on metal and 40 of the pieces are on archival paper. For more information, visit bfreestudio.net.
CONCERT @ LJ CHURCH
To start its 2023 season of concerts, Bodhi Tree Concerts, the award-winning San Diego performing arts organization that commits intentional acts of kindness through music, presents San Diego favorites Ken Anderson and Dale Fleming in “An Evening of Songs that Heal,” Sunday, March 19, at 4 p.m. at St. James by-the-Sea, 743 Prospect St. “An Evening of Songs that Heal” is taken from the Negro Spiritual, the Civil Rights Movement, the Vietnam War era, Broadway, and directly from the church. It will be an evening that will inspire, make you want to sing (and you’re welcome to), and hopefully help you with your own healing process. In keeping with the mission of Bodhi Tree Concerts, profits from this concert will benefit the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Choir Scholarship Fund. Purchase tickets at bodhitreeconcerts.org.
DUCK DIVE ST. PAT’S
Duck Dive is celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with food and drink specials from Thursday, March 16 to Sunday, March 19. Devour the corned beef and hash breakfast special. Or opt for the traditional corned beef hash with cabbage and potatoes, available during lunch and dinner. Jameson espresso martinis, Irish slammers, green beers, and green tea shots are available as well.
BACKYARD GOES GREEN
Backyard Kitchen & Tap at 832 Garnet Ave. is imploring lads and lasses to raise a pint, get your green on, and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with sláinte. On Thursday, March 16: Irish-themed Trivia 6:30-8:30 p.m. Guinness Beer Dinner Pairing, 7 p.m. a three-course meal paired with Guinness beers for $50 per person. Live music by MPLUS from 10 p.m.-midnight. Friday, March 17: Corned beef and cabbage for $18. Nobody Drinks Alone – get two Guinness or two Jameson drinks for $17. $10 Irish Car Bombs. $10 Jameson Green Tea drinks (ran through an ice luge) from 6-10 p.m. Back Bar Karaoke 9 p.m.
Nightclub and DJ 10 p.m. For reservations or more information, visit https://backyardpb.com. Follow @backyard_pb.
FIESTA ISLAND MOWING
The Fiesta Island park maintenance crew has announced plans to mow the dog park in phases, in part to aid foxtail control, which began March 11-12 continuing through March 18-19. Watch for the large mowers in action, and keep your dogs under control when they are nearby. That means goodbye to many of the knee-high “daisies” (actually the chrysanthemum family) that people and pups alike have been enjoying, but it’s important to mow now before the foxtail grasses dry and go to seed. Mowing now will help reduce (though not eliminate) those nasty and potentially harmful foxtails.
CUSP DINING & DRINKS
Cusp Dining & Drinks at Hotel La Jolla on La Jolla Shores Drive will offer a toast to the Easter Bunny with several specials joining its newly launched brunch menu in honor of the holiday on Sunday, April 9 from 7 a.m.-2 p.m. The specials will join the restaurant’s regular a la carte offerings of new American cuisine, served with a side of spectacular views of downtown La Jolla and the Pacific Ocean. To make a reservation, visit opentable.com. For more information, visit cusprestaurant.com.
NEW BOARD MEMBER
Just in Time for Foster Youth, a nonprofit dedicated to engaging a caring community to help transition-age foster youth achieve self-sufficiency and well-being, announced new board member Wendy McKinney. A trusted leader in nonprofit and for-profit business, McKinney has mastered how to prioritize work, family and a life of service. As the former chief development officer for the American Red Cross and the San Diego History Center, and former development director for the Neighborhood House Association, she raised millions to benefit the San Diego region. As a former financial services executive for AIG, she successfully led the sales and marketing team. For over 30 years, she has trained hundreds in leadership through conferences, retreats, and motivational speaking.
TALENT & CASTING
National agency InnoVision Marketing Group is widening its capabilities with the creation of InnoVision Talent & Casting, adding to its growing list of in-house services. In preparation of their formal announcement to production companies, studios, photographers and other advertising agencies scheduled for June 1, ITC is actively searching for talent to join their current talent roster of actors, models, voiceover talent and extras. Born from one of the most reputable agencies in the nation, the new talent and casting entity will complement InnoVision Marketing Group’s current five divisions and services, including brand strategy, advertising, creative, film production, digital media, traditional media, public relations and Grupo Español.
ITC’s mission is to challenge the traditional types of casting and talent agencies by welcoming a more inclusive roster, giving opportunities to underrepresented groups and people of all diversities and backgrounds and never requiring any fee or cost to anyone on their roster. Their biggest differentiator from other talent and casting agencies will be their fee structure that gives every person on their roster one hundred percent of their earnings, with no commissions taken out of their pay.
BUN & PATTI
Bun & Patti, a fine casual burger restaurant at 2171 Kettner Blvd., has opened its doors in San Diego’s Little Italy neighborhood. Founded by husband and wife Elion and Amy Prodani and inspired by Elion’s two decades managing fine dining restaurants in Las Vegas, Bun & Patti features a counter-service menu that is approachable in the familiarity of its menu items while being high-end in execution, ingredients and design. “We are looking to change how people view a burger place,” says Elion Prodani, co-owner of Bun & Patti.
The menu is centered around a burger blend of the upper two-thirds Angus choice chuck and brisket sourced from Gold Canyon Meat Co. and beef from Flannery Beef, a third-generation farm in Petaluma. The 6-ounce burger patties are available in single, double, sliders or an Impossible meat vegan option and served on brioche buns, salt and pepper brioche buns, pretzel buns, and vegan sesame buns baked fresh daily from Los Angeles-based Rockenwagner Bakery. The fine-dining execution is further showcased in hand-crafted sauces, burger toppings, salads and sides.
SDVLP LAUNCHES REBRANDING
San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program has announced a rebranding campaign to celebrate a milestone of 40 years providing free legal services to some of the most disadvantaged populations in our region. Established in 1983, the nonprofit’s rebrand is focused on reinforcing its mission to provide equal access to the justice system by serving as a bridge between indigent and other disadvantaged people in San Diego County and the volunteer lawyers and others who are willing to donate their time and resources. “We hope our rebrand can introduce us to a new generation of stakeholders who can help ensure that no San Diegan is forced to navigate the legal system alone, simply because they cannot afford an attorney,” said Jennifer Nelson, CEO of SDVLP. “The new brand reflects our colorful and diverse organization, volunteers and the more than 6,000 San Diegans we serve each year.”
UCSD NURSES PROTEST
Registered nurses at UCSD Health Jacobs Medical Center in La Jolla held a rally on Thursday, March 16, outside the emergency room entrance to demand that University of California management end the unsafe practice of placing ER patients on gurneys in hallways and other areas that are not properly equipped or staffed for patient care, announced California Nurses Association/National Nurses United. The nurses are deeply concerned about eroding patient care conditions and the lack of patient privacy and dignity.
Nurses say that it has become standard practice for ER patients who are already admitted, to wait for days on a gurney in a hallway in the ER before being moved to an actual inpatient room with the proper equipment and staffing. Staff must scramble to find IV poles, portable heart monitors, and other basic equipment for hallway gurneys. Some patients are being triaged and sent back to the waiting room, where they do not have call lights to alert staff to any problems.“Patients in hallway gurneys have needed critical care while visitors are walking by,” said emergency department RN and CNA nurse representative Maria Tan. “There are no available restrooms in some of the areas patients are now placed. We are helping patients with bedpans without sufficient privacy screens while other patients and visitors walk by.”
RENOVATED HOTEL
Best Western Hotels & Resorts announces the opening of the Best Western San Diego Zoo/SeaWorld Inn & Suites at 2485 Hotel Circle Place. The hotel features 199 total guestrooms, including 68 suites, and is managed by Azul Hospitality Group, a San Diego-based hospitality management platform that provides an innovative approach to maximizing performance. The Best Western San Diego Zoo/SeaWorld Inn & Suites recently completed a renovation of more than $2 million, debuting a new modern design throughout featuring soothing grays and cool deep blues against a backdrop of warm earthy tones.
MUSIC @ MARSTON
Join Save Our Heritage Organisation (SOHO) on Thursday, March 16 at 1:30 p.m. at 3525 7th Ave. for a free 30-minute pop-up concert at the Marston House Museum & Gardens, featuring the award-winning Newbury Park High School Choir from Thousand Oaks. Recognized as one of the finest high school choral programs in the country, the choir offers a memorable musical experience with its concert choir, advanced treble ensemble, and chamber choir groups. The concert will be held on the south terrace of the Marston House, kicking off the spring season. Guests are welcome to stand or sit on the generous south lawn, but we recommend bringing a moisture-resistant blanket or folding chair in case the ground is damp from the rainy weather. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy beautiful music in a picturesque setting! Parking is available on Balboa Drive, immediately adjacent to the Marston House grounds. See Marston House Directions & Parking.
UNDERWATER EASTER EGG HUNT
Belmont Park is holding its annual Underwater Easter Egg Hunt at Plunge Pool on Saturday, April 1 from 9:30 a.m. to noon. The underwater egg hunt will include floating and sunken eggs in the shallow end of the pool and a more challenging egg hunt in the deep end for older children and adults. After completing the Easter egg hunt, each child will receive an Easter goodie bag along with a special appearance from the Easter Bunny, a complimentary day pass to return to Plunge San Diego at another time, a chance to try out the newly launched floating obstacle course, dry-land Easter egg hunts, bouncy houses and local vendors. General admission tickets are available from $20-$30 and VIP tickets are available from $40-$50. VIP tickets include one premium Easter basket and exclusive access to the VIP deck with snacks and refreshments. Tickets can be purchased here.
LAV SPRINGTIME TEA
La Valencia‘s upcoming spring tea service returns Friday, April 7, which also coincides with Easter and Mother’s Day. Welcome spring and toast to longer, warmer days ahead with La Valencia’s award-winning tea service at the Mediterranean Room at 1132 Prospect St. Enjoy a variety of fine French DAMMANN Frères teas paired with housemade sconces, quiche, classic tea sandwiches, assorted mini pastries, against the backdrop of panoramic Pacific Ocean views. Plus, start the festive service with a complimentary glass of bubbly.
JAZZ HISTORY LECTURE
Getting in the spirit of The Talk of the Town benefit celebration (April 14), the Athenaeum will present Jonathan Gómez, who will lecture on Jazz in the 1920s, on April 10, at 5:30 p.m. at 1008 Wall St. Gómez will give a context of jazz during this period, highlighting the importance of the era’s innovative jazz artists. In addition to his discussion, he will play some key recordings after which he will hold a question-and-answer period. Gómez is particularly interested in excavating the ways that Black people have turned to music as a site of identity formation, collaboration, community building, and political action. Gómez earned a PhD from Harvard University with a secondary field in African and African American Studies, and his research interests are informed by his practice and experience as a jazz saxophonist.
HOMEMADE ICE CREAM
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream is bringing its flavors to the Hillcrest neighborhood at1080 University Ave. on Thursday, March 23. The newest Handel’s is kicking off their grand opening celebration with the first 100 customers receiving free ice cream for a year (purchase necessary). The Hillcrest Handel’s is located at The Hub Hillcrest Market. The grand opening party starts at 11 a.m. The Hillcrest store features local flavors including Black Cherry, Buckeye, Coffee Chocolate Chip, Graham Central Station, Oree-Dough, Salty Caramel Truffle, and more. The location offers dine-in, pickup, delivery, and catering. The store hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
SD 8TH MOST IRISH CITY
Everyone’s Irish on St. Patrick’s Day, but which of the 200 biggest U.S. cities really know how to celebrate the Celtic spirit? To mark Irish American Heritage Month, LawnStarter ranked 2023’s Most Irish Cities in America. Beyond green bloodlines — they looked at access to Irish pubs, dance schools, and social groups among 10 total indicators of Irishness. How does San Diego stack up? Irish Population – 6th, Number of Fish and Chips Vendors – 5th, Number of Irish Dance Schools – 4th, Number of Irish Landmarks – 13th, Number of Local Irish Organizations – 6th.
EASTER @ MARINE ROOM
The acclaimed restaurant’s special Easter four-course prix-fixe menu will be available on Sunday, April 9 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guests will begin the culinary experience with an Amuse Bouche of Truffle Leek Quiche, followed by a variety of appetizer options such as Charred Artichoke Salad, Purple Basil Tomato Bisque, Sesame Crusted Salmon Tataki, and more. For the main course, guests can choose from the following selection of Lobster Crepe, Spring Pea Risotto, Swordfish, Filet Mignon and Iberico Pork Chop. The Marine Room will also offer a children’s menu for the holiday. For more information or to make a reservation, visit marineroom.com.
CLAIREMONT SAFE PARKING LOT
Working to create new options for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, the City Council’s Rules Committee has moved forward a plan to open a new safe parking lot in the Clairemont neighborhood that will include live-in-ready camper trailers as well as free, safe parking for people who sleep overnight in their vehicles.“Safe Parking is a tool that can keep people from losing their home of last resort and winding up on our streets.” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “This program expansion will put to good use the trailers provided to us by the State and give folks more space to live while they work to find permanent housing.” The City Council’s Rules Committee voted unanimously on a proposal by the City’s Homelessness Strategies and Solutions Department to amend a contract with Jewish Family Service of San Diego to operate the new lot. Located near the City’s Rose Canyon Operations Yard, the lot will operate 24 hours a day and provide a safe place for unhoused residents needing to sleep overnight in their vehicles, with access to critical services to secure employment, financial stability and more on their path to long-term housing.
LEPRECHAUN’S DAY
Coastal Sage Gardening and Botany for Kids will be holding a Leprechaun’s Day Event coming up on March 18 at Sefton Gardens at 1865 Sefton Place. This is a free event that will feature a ladybug release, raffles, face painting, a garden tour and lecture, plus more.
ADULT DOG ADOPTION
With the start of spring just around the corner, Love is in Bloom at San Diego Humane Society/ At least 244 adult dogs (7 months and older) are available for adoption and waiting for new homes across the organization’s campuses in Escondido, El Cajon, Oceanside and San Diego. To help these pups find a new family, the shelter is waiving adoption fees for adult dogs through Friday, March 31. The Love is in Bloom promotion is generously sponsored by Purina. San Diego Humane Society is open for walk-in adoptions Tuesdays-Sundays, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at its campuses in Escondido, El Cajon, Oceanside and San Diego. Visit sdhumane.org/adopt to view animals available for adoption.
CLIMATE STUDY BILL
Assemblymember Chris Ward’s AB 30 will broaden the atmospheric river program administered through the Department of Water Resources to link reservoir and flood control operations with best practices in prediction modeling to optimize water management, increase storage, and reduce flood risk. The bill passed out of the Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee on a bipartisan vote.
“Climate change is causing our rainy seasons to be wetter and our dry seasons to be dryer,” said Ward (D-San Diego). “The ability to predict atmospheric rivers –– where and when they will lead to precipitation, as well as how much it will produce — can help water managers and weather forecasters better prepare for the future.”
FLY QUIET AWARDS
The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority (Airport Authority) announced the winners of the 2023 Fly Quiet Awards, which recognize airlines for their efforts to reduce noise during arrivals and departures at San Diego International Airport (SAN).
- Southwest Airlines received the highest Fly Quiet Score in the large domestic carrier category for its continued use of the Boeing 737 MAX, a newer and quieter aircraft.
- Spirit Airlines won in the small domestic carrier category for flying more than half of its overall flights at SAN with newer and quieter aircraft.
- DHL, operated by iAero, won the air cargo carrier category for its use of quieter aircraft, the Boeing 737-800, no noise curfew violations, and the lowest noise exceedance score among air cargo carriers.
- Lufthansa won the international carrier category, achieving the best overall score in all categories. The airline utilizes the Airbus 350-900, which is a newer and quieter aircraft and has never had a curfew violation while operating at SAN.
“The Airport Authority is proud to collaborate with the Airport Noise Advisory Committee on the Fly Quiet Program, which we introduced in 2017 to encourage airlines to work together with the airport and the community to operate as quietly as possible in the San Diego area,” said Kim Becker, Airport Authority president and CEO.
SD RESTAURANT WEEK
San Diego Restaurant Week, presented by the California Restaurant Association, returns in its 20th year with over 100 restaurants across 30-plus neighborhoods for eight days of dining from Sunday, March 26 through Sunday April 2. San Diego Restaurant Week invites diners to “Spring into Flavor” with diverse menus featuring special prix-fixe pricing throughout the county. Diners can enjoy a variety of diverse menus featuring special prix-fixe pricing throughout the county. Guests can enjoy two-course lunches and three-course dinners for starting at just $20 depending on the restaurant’s price points. Guests are invited to inspire their tastebuds by browsing menus for all participating restaurants which are available in advance at SanDiegoRestaurantWeek.com.
UC HOUSING PROTEST
On March 11, nonprofit Our Time To Act United hosted a rally and press conference to support more housing in the University Community Plan Update. “San Diego is in a housing and climate crisis. We need more mixed-use, multi-family, high-density housing, paired with employment and transit, to tackle both issues at once. The housing crisis is an intersectional issue that affects our entire community. Solving the housing crisis means changing the way we develop our land to encourage high-density development that realistically plans for our future,” said Nicole Lillie, housing projects director at Our Time to Act United. “Housing is a human right, it’s time we start enacting policies and pursuing strategies that will actually achieve providing it.”
“The vibrancy of the University area will be destroyed if people of all stages of life can’t afford to live here,” said Rachel Graham, housing and transit advocate. “Lack of housing means that young adults can’t stay in the neighborhood where they grew up. A lack of housing means that seniors must choose between downsizing and remaining in their community. No one should have to leave an area because they can’t afford it.”
COVERED CALIFORNIA
Covered California announced that 263,320 people had newly selected a health plan for 2023, continuing a trend of steady growth in recent years. The total is more than 14,000 higher than 2021’s total, and 8,000 higher than last year’s figure. In addition, more than 1.4 million Californians renewed their health insurance for 2023, bringing Covered California’s overall enrollment to 1.74 million.
“Covered California is woven into the fabric of our health care system, providing quality coverage in every corner of the state and protecting more than 1.7 million Californians,” said Jessica Altman, executive director of Covered California. “The strength in these numbers is driven by the Inflation Reduction Act, which provides increased and expanded financial help, bringing the cost of coverage within reach for millions of Californians who need health insurance.”
Covered California’s analysis shows that the total number of consumers selecting a plan for 2023 is 1,739,360, which reflects 1,476,040 consumers renewing their coverage and 263,320 consumers newly signing up for coverage during open enrollment.
SDBC SAFETY RALLY
San Diego County Bicycle Coalition and Families for Safe Streets San Diego will hang posters at the sites of all fatal bicycle and pedestrian crashes since 2014 on Saturday, March 18. Safe streets advocates will meet at the Bike Coalition offices on Saturday morning and distribute posters throughout the city. Campaign will spread awareness of the deadly traffic crash epidemic and call on Mayor Todd Gloria and the San Diego City Council to dedicate more funding to Vision Zero
Families for Safe Streets San Diego and the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition will be launching a campaign to spread awareness of the growing epidemic of cyclists and pedestrians being killed on the streets of San Diego. Volunteers from both groups will gather at the Bicycle Coalition office and then disperse around the city to hang posters at the locations of every crash that killed a bicyclist or pedestrian since 2021. The posters will read “Our Neighbor was Killed Here,” and will direct viewers to a webpage where they will be able to easily email Gloria and their council member to request more funding for traffic safety.
BARKS & BREWS
This Saturday, March 18, San Diego’s Barks & Brews Fest returns to downtown’s Waterfront Park for a day filled with craft beer tastings, great food, furry friends and the vibrant surroundings of the San Diego Bay. Barks & Brew takes place from 12:30-6 p.m. at Waterfront Park, 1600 Pacific Highway in downtown San Diego. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit barksandbrewfest.com.
VIRTUAL KITTEN SHOWER
San Diego Humane Society is getting ready for its busy annual kitten season by holding a virtual Kitten Shower (left). In the coming months, thousands of kittens under eight weeks of age will require around-the-clock care to grow into healthy cats. During the virtual Kitten Shower, which started on March 7, the community is encouraged to donate essential items, including kitten formula, bottles, heating pads, scales and blankets from SDHS’s online baby registries. They are hosted by Amazon, Target and Walmart and can be accessed directly at www.sdhumane.org/programs/kitten-nursery/kitten-shower.html. Purchased items are delivered directly to SDHS, and every donation helps provide the lifesaving care these tiny kittens need to survive.
“Neonate kittens have many essential needs that our staff and volunteers meet in the absence of a mother,” said SDHS director of nursery and placement Jackie Noble. “They need to be fed every two to three hours, they need temperature regulation, they need help eliminating and they need to be groomed – all things their mom would do if she was raising them.” In 2009, San Diego Humane Society opened the country’s first-ever around-the-clock kitten nursery.
MEALS ON WHEELS CHAMPIONS WEEK WITH SD WAVE
On the morning of Monday, March 6, Meals on Wheels San Diego County kicked off its 21st annual Champions Week with members of San Diego Wave at the nonprofit’s Metro San Diego Service Center in the Old Town area. At lunchtime, Wave defender Kaleigh Riehl, as well as Willy Gloria, director of advocacy at Meals on Wheels San Diego County, delivered meals to Judy and others in the Midway District. Champions Week is an annual campaign to help raise awareness for the growing number of seniors facing hunger and isolation in the region, which are both serious problems currently impacting the community and nation at large. Throughout the five-day event, local community leaders and elected officials, such as District 2 Councilmember Dr. Jennifer Campbell, will deliver meals to the nonprofit’s senior clients across San Diego County.
SPRING AT SUNSET CLIFFS
Experience spring at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park on Saturday, March 18 from 9-11 a.m. See more than 40 species of native plants in full bloom in the “Demonstration Garden” overlooking located on the south side of the Ladera Street parking lot in Sunset Cliffs Natural Park Cliffs. Hosted by the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park Council and Friends of Sunset Cliffs. Questions? Contact Rosamaria at 619-890-2828 or www.SunsetCliffsNaturalPark.org.
LITTLE HOUSE OF FLOWERS PARTNERS WITH PETAL SHARE
Little House of Flowers owner Hilary Bateman partnered with Petal Share. Heather Lawson, the founder of Petal Share, runs the organization to help make the temporary symbols of joy last longer. Petal Share takes flowers donated from weddings, retailers, and events and arranges the flowers. With the help of their volunteers, they deliver them to women’s shelters, homeless youth shelters, nursing homes, and anyone who needs some comfort in times when it can feel like there is none. Little House of Flowers’ both locations will have buckets dedicated to Petal Share to collect. Every Friday, the collected flowers will be transported to Petal Share for a second life. For more information, visit littlehouseofflowerssd.com and petalshare.org.
IN THE SERVICE
Ocean Beach native and Chief Petty Officer Cheyne Souza serves with Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 71, operating out of San Diego. The squadron’s primary mission is to conduct sea control operations in open-ocean and coastal environments. This includes hunting for submarines, searching for surface targets over the horizon and conducting search and rescue operations.
Souza, a 2006 Point Loma High School graduate, joined the Navy 10 years ago. “I was 25 years-old and explored many different careers,” said Souza. “After exploring the military option, I was impressed with the structure and benefits.”
CASS STREET ON NEWPORT
Harry Rudolph Jr. is part of a local hospitality group that is planning to open sister concepts to his Cass Street Bar & Grill and Harry’s Taco Club establishments in the space formerly inhabited by JJ’s Sports Bar & Grill at 5049 Newport Ave. The new joint Cass Street/Mike’s Taco Club concept will have a food menu that is a blend of Mike’s cuisine and Cass Street faves like the stuffed steak baguette, the Oriental salad, and the spicy chicken pasta. Rudolph Jr. also owns Harry’s Coffee Shop in La Jolla and The Venetian in Point Loma and Mike’s Taco Club in OB.
OVERSIZED VEHICLE MEETING
The Port of San Diego is updating SDUPD Code Section 8.09 that regulates the parking of oversized vehicles including recreational vehicles, campers, trailers, and boat trailers. The public and stakeholders, including oversized and recreational vehicle owners and those with concerns about oversized vehicle parking along San Diego Bay, are invited to attend the latest meeting Thursday, March 16 at 2 p.m. at the Port of San Diego Administration Building Boardroom, 3165 Pacific Highway, to learn about proposed changes to the ordinance based on the feedback collected to date, and to provide additional feedback. Proposed changes include updating the definition of an oversized vehicle, expanding the ordinance to include all bayfront areas under Port jurisdiction, and where oversized vehicles will not be permitted to park. The Port and parking consultant have been conducting stakeholder and community outreach to provide information about the existing ordinance and conditions, and to gather input to help guide ordinance updates. Free visitor parking is available in the front of the building. The public is encouraged to attend the meeting or email comments to [email protected] To learn more and to review the current ordinance, go to portofsandiego.org/oversized-vehicles.
SWEAT & SIP EVENT
On March 11, join Mission Beach’s Sandbar for its Sweat & Sip event sponsored by Locals Only Vodka. Beginning at 9 a.m., personal trainer and Sandbar bartender Raina McCluer will teach a 45-minute high-intensity interval training (HITT) class – either at Sandbar or on the beach depending on the class size. Tickets, which can be purchased here for $30, includes a workout band, Local’s Only Vodka drink, and Sandbar brunch specials following the workout. Bring your own yoga mat and towel if you have one at 718 Ventura Place
STUDENT THEATRE PERFORMANCE
Treehouse Academy in collaboration with Apt 4 Music will be hosting a student-led public performance on Friday, March 31 at the NTC North Promenade, 2875 Dewey Road, from 2-4 p.m. This past month, students from Treehouse Academy got the chance to partake in music classes with Apt 4 Music. While there, students had the opportunity to learn to play the ukulele, drums and other percussion instruments during the duration of the workshops. To close out the program, the students will be putting on a performance to showcase their skills and bring to life their creativity in music. This program was made possible through a collaborative grant awarded by NTC Foundation with generous support from River Rock Real Estate Group and The Parker Foundation.
NAUTICAL HISTORY MUSEUM
Take a deep dive into Liberty Station’s nautical roots at a The Nautical History Gallery and Museum in the Dick Laub NTC Command Center now open in Arts District Liberty Station. After carefully studying historical photographs, artist and curator Joe Frangiosa built miniature models of old naval ships. The exhibition showcases carefully constructed displays of realistic miniature Naval ship models as well as a collection of other naval artifacts and historic period antiques. For more information, call 619-800-5497.
BERMUDA STAIRS
A notice of proceeding has been issued by the City and contractor Granite Construction Co. has been awarded the Bermuda staircase/seawall project, work on which commenced Feb. 13. The contractor has about 195 days (nine months) from the start date to complete the project, but the project’s schedule depends on weather and tidal conditions. This project scope consists of replacement of a deteriorated and damaged stairway for public access to the beach at the western terminus of Bermuda Avenue. The stairway will be a cast in-place concrete. The first flight will be supported by a concrete block landing and by supporting concrete piles for the two upper flights. The new stairway will be found independent of the seawall. The staircase providing the only access to the pocket beach below was damaged during winter storms in 2015-16. Subsequently, City staff closed the stairwell due to tidal action that eroded the lower stairway foundation causing the lower stairs to collapse.