More than 100 photorealistic dinosaurs are ready when Jurassic Quest heads indoors at the Del Mar Fairgrounds (Jan. 21-23). COURTESY PHOTO

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A round-up of news, community, entertainment, and business briefs from sdnews.com highlighting what’s happening in our community.

EVANS HOTELS NEW EXECUTIVE HIRES

Evans Hotels, the family-owned hospitality company that operates Bahia Resort Hotel, Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa, and The Lodge at Torrey Pines, has announced Matthew Adams as its new executive vice president and chief operating officer, and Anthony Belef as its new chief human resources officer. Adams will supervise all operations for Evans’ resorts, as well as the Bahia Belle and William D. Evans sternwheelers, and Belmont Laundry, which provides laundry services for the properties. Belef will oversee the human resources function for the company. “We are thrilled to welcome these experienced and well-respected hospitality industry professionals to our executive team,” said Robert Gleason, president and CEO of Evans Hotels. 

JURASSIC QUEST RETURNS TO DEL MAR FAIRGROUNDS

The largest dinosaur exhibit in North America is back, bigger, and better than ever. More than 100 photorealistic dinosaurs are ready to delight families when Jurassic Quest heads indoors at the Del Mar Fairgrounds (Jan. 21-23). The event visited as a drive-thru attraction in early 2021 with sold-out crowds that spurred a spring encore visit. Now, dino fans will have the chance to experience Jurassic Quest’s unique indoor experiences for the whole family including more than 100 life-like dinosaurs, dinosaur-themed rides and attractions, live dinosaur shows, interactive science and art activities, a “Triceratots” soft play area for our littlest explorers, photo opportunities, and more. 

LJ ART GALLERY EXHIBITION

Tasende Gallery at 820 Prospect St. is presenting the exhibition “Jose Luis Cuevas,” Jan. 28 through March 26. On exhibit will be 15 drawings from 1973 through 1984. Twelve of the works are from the “Intolerance” series, drawings inspired by the historical document “The Witches’ Advocate” detailing the Inquisition in the Basque Country in the early 17th century.

LOVE YOUR WETLANDS DAY

On Saturday, Feb. 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. join the UC Natural Reserve System and the San Diego Audubon Society for Love Your Wetlands Day at the 20-acre Kendall-Frost Mission Bay Marsh Reserve 2055 Pacific Beach Drive. This is a once-a-year opportunity to explore the normally off-limits Kendall-Frost Marsh Reserve in Mission Bay, while also learning about the importance of coastal wetlands, the threats that they are facing, and how local communities are working to restore and protect them. Activities are family-friendly and include guided walking tours, live animal presentations, booths from environmental organizations, habitat restoration and more. More info and detailed schedule of events here. 

FOOD DRIVE

Jeannie Thompson, with the La Jolla office of Coldwell Banker Realty, is celebrating her birthday by holding a food drive for the San Diego Food Bank on Saturday, Jan. 29 from 3:30-6 p.m. at Wheat & Water, at 5737 La Jolla Blvd. Community members are invited to donate some of the most needed food items like canned chicken and tuna, dry and canned beans, cereal, rice, nuts and seeds, peanut butter, canned soup, canned and dried fruit, canned vegetables, powdered milk and infant formula.

SHAMROCK FESTIVAL TO RETURN

After a three-year hiatus, the San Diego ShamROCK Music + Beer Festival is making a return to the streets of the Gaslamp Quarter on Saturday, March 12, from 2 p.m. to midnight. For 26 years, locals and tourists alike have flocked to the Gaslamp Quarter as ShamROCK transforms the bustling San Diego downtown neighborhoods into a Celtic carnival for the senses with an abundance of pub-style seating, flowing green beer, traditional Irish steppers, Celtic rock bands, photo-ops, shenanigan games (with prizes!), and activation throughout the Gaslamp.

UTC CINEMAS RETURNING

ArcLight Cinemas La Jolla announced its permanent closure in 2021, but the movie theater will reopen later this year as AMC UTC 14 in part of the renovated Robinsons-May department store building in La Jolla's Westfield UTC mall. The new theater is expected to open in late 2022 and will be a full-service experience with an onsite bar and restaurant at 4425 La Jolla Village Drive, Suite H60.

BEAUTIFULPB PLANS

In December, the BeautifulPB board met to discuss priorities and projects for this year, such as:

• Adding more public art to Pacific Beach via new crosswalk murals at Pacific Beach Middle School, as well as installing art on trash cans along Garnet Avenue.

• Promoting a community shuttle to connect Pacific Beach with the Balboa trolley station.

• Improving the PB Pathways network throughout the community.

BeautifulPB is interested in hearing from its members and the community. Share your ideas at info@beautifulpb.com.

NATIONAL PIZZA DAY

Powerhaus Wholesome Pizza & Eats at 1550 Garnet Ave. has partnered with San Diego artist Abeeha Awan and PizzaDAO, a community of digital artists creating pizza NFTs, to launch seven NFTs to celebrate National Pizza Day from 6-8 p.m. on Feb. 9. They will be offering $2 off all alcoholic drinks to celebrate. The goal is to raise funds to sponsor pizza parties at low-income San Diego schools as each NFT sale will feed one classroom. If you’d like to nominate a classroom, reach out to anisha@powerhauspizza.com.

LJMS AT CONRAD

La Jolla Music Society (LJMS)  will bring young performers to the Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center in La Jolla at 7600 Fay Ave., everything from innovative tap dance and award-winning Nordic folk to dinosaur discoveries and Irish jigs with a twist. The ProtoStar Innovative Series begins on Feb. 4 in The Baker-Baum Concert Hall with “Counterpoint,” a collaboration between acclaimed pianist and composer Conrad Tao and choreographer and star tap dancer Caleb Teicher. You’ve never heard Nordic folk music like this before: Dreamers’ Circus returns to The JAI for two shows on Feb. 9. On Feb. 10, the “Nat Geo Live Speaker Series” continues with the fascinating tale of Spinosaurus, a prehistoric giant dinosaur that was nearly lost to science before young paleontologist Nizar Ibrahim discovered it. Closing out February, the brilliant young bassist Xavier Foley is joined by pianist Kelly Lin at The Baker-Baum Concert Hall.

LJS&C ANNOUNCES CHANGES

In the interest of the safety of patrons, musicians and staff, La Jolla Symphony & Chorus has made the difficult decision to cancel January and February concerts, while closely monitoring and following all UC San Diego and local public health guidelines and recommendations. It is hoped that LJS&C will return to live performance for the rest of the season, beginning with the concerts in March. Go to the www.ljsc.org for more information.

BURGERS IN LJ SHORES

Jeff's Beach Burgers is set to unveil later this year in La Jolla Shores. Jeff's Beach Burgers is the product of partner Jeff Jacobs, the youngest son of Qualcomm co-founder Irwin Jacobs. It is currently under construction in the space that last housed Yogurt Your Way. Expect a menu of flat-top grilled burgers, including vegetarian and vegan varieties, as well as fries, sides, milkshakes and a selection of beer. Jeff's Beach Burgers is expected to open in spring at 2134 Avenida De La Playa. 

COVID MEDICARE TESTING

 Rep. Scott Peters (CA-52) and Rep. Bill Pascrell Jr. (NJ-09) are calling on the Biden administration to provide full reimbursement to Medicare recipients who purchase at-home COVID-19 tests. “We urge you to take immediate action to ensure that those covered by Medicare have the same ready, cost-free access to COVID-19 diagnostic tests. Beneficiaries should have continued access to at-home COVID-19 testing and their providers should be involved in the ordering of tests and made aware of test results,” Reps. Peters and Pascrell wrote to President Biden. Broad access to diagnostic testing for COVID-19 is a critical component of a comprehensive strategy to effectively identify and mitigate the spread of this virus, especially as new variants continue to emerge. Without comparable benefits available through the Medicare program, nearly 20 percent of the population would be made to pay out-of-pocket for COVID-19 tests.

GULLS LEGEND GETS JERSEY

The National Hockey League recently made a special trip to San Diego to present former Gull and hockey legend Willie O’Ree a game-worn jersey from his time with the San Diego Gulls of the WHL. The jersey was discovered by the Hockey Hall of Fame and purchased as a gift for Willie to be presented to him ahead of a jersey retirement ceremony in Boston.

PALOMAR HEALTH APPOINTMENT

Committed to supporting the needs of the community, Palomar Health CEO Diane Hansen has been appointed to the Special Districts Advisory Committee for San Diego Local Agency Formation Commission. Hansen’s term will run through October 2024 and will place her with 15 special district colleagues throughout San Diego County to directly advise San Diego LAFCO in fulfilling its regulatory and planning responsibilities. The committee meets each quarter to discuss growth and development of the county.

SOCCER PARTNERSHIP
 San Diego Loyal SC (SD Loyal) has announced a multi-year agreement with León-based soccer brand CHARLY as its new official apparel partner ahead of the club’s third season. The historic partnership, anchored by SD Loyal’s home, away and alternate kits, establishes SD Loyal as the first United States professional soccer club to be outfitted by CHARLY, the official sponsor of Liga MX. For more information visit: www.charly.com.

NEW LIBRARY PROGRAM

The San Diego Public Library is launching a new program to support early literacy development and foster a lifelong love of reading. Effective Jan. 18, children under the age of 5 can sign up for My First Library Card, a special library card designed just for them. To get a card, children and their parents or guardians can visit any SDPL location offering services. When they enroll in the program, kids will receive the library card, an opportunity to take their picture in front of an Odi frame and, while supplies last, a copy of the Odi’s Library Day book and an Odi stuffed animal. For more information on My First Library Card and available library services visit the SDPL webpage.  

HUMANE SOCIETY GRANT

San Diego Humane Society announced it has received a $100,000 grant from PEDIGREE Foundation to support its Welcome Committee program, which helps to reduce the adjustment period for dogs entering shelters, build relationships with people, and decrease fear, anxiety, stress and frustration. The program focuses on incoming dogs who display fear- or stress-based behaviors during their first 24-48 hours in care. By helping dogs overcome transitional stress when they enter the shelter, the program protects their well-being and reduces stress-related behaviors — which, in turn, helps dogs find their new homes faster. With this grant, to be distributed over two years, SDHS will be able to continue to build on the Welcome Committee program for dogs.

 BIRD ROCK AUCTION/GALA

Bird Rock Elementary School’s Gala and Auction titled “Havana nights” will take place Saturday, March 19. Donations are requested. For more information, visit Home - Bird Rock Elementary. 

REALTORS PRESIDENT

Chris Anderson has begun her term as the 2022 president of the Greater San Diego Association of Realtors, leading the largest trade association in San Diego County with a diverse membership of 20,000 real estate professionals. She was sworn in Jan. 13 at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines during the annual New Laws and Industry Outlook event. For more information, visit www.sdar.com.  

JAZZ AT THE LOFT

A major compositional and improvisational force on the New York jazz scene since the mid-1980s, guitarist Marc Ribot will be performing Wednesday, Feb. 16 at The Loft in La Jolla at 7611 Fay Ave. His live solo performances are unpredictable events. This performance is part of ArtPower’s jazz series and takes place at 8 p.m. Tickets are $28–40 and can be purchased online at artpower.ucsd.edu.

MIDWAY REDEVELOPER ENDORSED

The San Diego County Building and Construction Trades Council and its 22 union members representing 30,000 workers has endorsed the Midway Village+ plan to redevelop the Sports Arena site into a new urban village anchored by affordable and middle-income homes for working families, three sports and entertainment venues, and a new central park for the Midway District.

WAVE HIRES EXECUTIVE

San Diego Wave Fútbol Club has added Karla Thompson to the club’s executive team where she will serve as executive director of performance and development. At Wave FC, Thompson will serve in a key leadership role driving oversight of the high-performance arm and development areas of the club. “I am exhilarated and honored for this opportunity to work with San Diego Wave FC and Jill Ellis,” said Thompson. “I see a club that is building a winning foundation and culture that will be at the forefront of the league and the women’s game.”

PLHS CORE ACADEMY

Core Academy (formerly known as Saturday School) is an additional instructional day offering academic support in various core subject areas to help Point Loma High School students reach their academic goals. Attending Core Academy will also recover one unexcused absence. It meets once a month on Saturday from 8 a.m.-noon. This month's Core Academy has been rescheduled to Saturday, Jan. 22. Click here for more information and to sign up.

PLHS MOVES ASB BALL

This year’s Associated Students Ball for Point Loma High School has been moved to a new date. The dance will now be held Saturday, March 5 from 7-10 p.m. aboard the USS Midway. Tickets costing $45 are not yet available, but should be on sale in mid-February. All students attending are required to be current PLHS students who are either fully vaccinated or have a negative COVID test dated no earlier than March 1. COVID guidelines may change at any time, and the ability to host the dance will be dependent on those guidelines. 

PUBLIC INPUT SOUGHT ON DE ANZA COVE

The City of San Diego has released an updated proposal for the redevelopment of De Anza Cove in the northeastern corner of Mission Bay Park and is asking San Diegans to weigh in on the plan. The revised proposal, titled De Anza Natural, envisions a balance of land uses that serves local and regional recreational needs, while also restoring natural habitats and preparing for the impacts of climate change. Residents have until Thursday, Feb. 10, to submit comments. Comments can be submitted to PlanningCEQA@sandiego.gov with “De Anza Natural” in the subject line or submit written comments to City of San Diego Planning Department, 9485 Aero Drive, MS 413, San Diego, CA 92123.

FREE RUBIO’S FISH TACO

On Tuesday, Jan. 25, celebrate National Fish Taco Day at Rubio’s and receive a free, Baja-inspired, Original Fish Taco with any purchase. Order online at Rubios.com, or through the app, enter coupon code ­­­­­­FISHTACO at checkout, or scan the QR code on the coupon in restaurants. Jan. 25 also marks the 39th anniversary of Rubio’s founder, Ralph Rubio, opening the first Rubio’s in Mission Bay. The tiny, walk-up stand started the fish taco phenomenon that has spread from coast to coast. For more information about Rubio’s Coastal Grill and to view the menu, visit Rubio’s, Facebook and Instagram

THE MED GETS REFIT

La Valencia Hotel will be re-imagining its signature The Med restaurant this year as part of a year-long milestone 95th anniversary celebration. The oceanview dining destination will once more become the Mediterranean Room, a nod to the property’s transportive Mediterranean-inspired look and feel. The comprehensive design refresh will honor the hotel’s old-world ambiance, while incorporating modern comforts, including all-new flooring, bespoke furniture, and dining ware. There also will be a new all-outdoor patio dining concept, complete with a bar, to be introduced along Prospect Street. A new California Mediterranean menu for brunch, lunch, and dinner will accompany the relaunch, inspired by the California coast and seasonally-driven, locally-sourced ingredients. The Mediterranean Room will reopen in winter 2022.

MAN & WOMAN OF THE YEAR

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society relies on its fundraising campaigns to help support lifesaving research, patient support and education, and advocacy efforts that benefit blood cancer patients and their families. For 10 weeks, 9-year-old, Avila Gachalian and 10-year-old, Marco Torres will be spreading the message, that together, we can create a world without blood cancers. “Through programs like Man & Woman of the Year, LLS has invested more than $1.3 billion in research to advance breakthrough therapies” said Kathlene Seymour, LLS’s Southern California Region executive director. “LLS has a more than 70-year legacy of innovating in the fundraising category and campaigns like Man & Woman of the Year have had a huge impact on the next generation of blood cancer treatments is significant. Despite LLS’s impact on blood cancers, every three minutes someone new will be diagnosed – there’s more work to be done.”

JURASSIC QUEST

The O’Brien & Bing Crosby Halls at 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. at the Del Mar Fairgrounds will be hosts to Jurassic Quest with with animated dinosaurs Friday through Saturday, Jan. 21-23 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. the first two days, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. the third and final day. Advance tickets are available  at jurassicquest.com/events/san-diego-ca. General admission includes live shows, arts and crafts activities, dinosaur and marine exhibits.  

DEL MAR ANTIQUE SHOW

The new Del Mar Antiques + Art + Design Show organized by Dolphin Promotions will take place Jan. 14-16 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds Bing Crosby Hall at 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. and will feature nearly 60 quality dealers from California and across the U.S. For the first time, the January show will feature an estate sale section presenting the entire contents of a home in a Palm Desert country club. For more information including a list of exhibitors, visit delmarantiques.com.

BETTY WHITE CHALLENGE

In honor of the #BettyWhiteChallenge that has been gaining momentum on social media, San Diego Humane Society is taking a different approach on the challenge by waiving adoption fees for all adult animals through Sunday, Jan. 16. In honor of what would have been Betty White’s 100th birthday, the organization hopes to find homes for 100 animals by Jan. 17.
“Betty White was an inspiration for many reasons, and her commitment to supporting animals was certainly one of them,” said San Diego Humane Society COO Jessica Des Lauriers. “We’re happy to honor her legacy by waiving adoption fees and helping more pets find loving homes. We are seeing the impact of the pandemic — the pause in spay and neuter efforts has led to more animals in shelters across the country, so there’s never been a better time to adopt a pet.” Check out Certified RAD animals at https://www.sdhumane.org/adopt/featured-pets/rad/.

NEW PROBATION CHIEF

The San Diego County Probation Department has a new chief to lead the department’s transformation and support the successful transition of people back to the community. Tamika Nelson is the first woman to lead the County’s probation department. She recently served as the assistant chief probation officer in San Joaquin County, managing a department with more than 350 sworn and non-sworn personnel. The San Diego County Probation Department includes 1,009 employees with a budget of $236 million and is a part of the County’s Public Safety Group.

ARTPOWER LIVE PERFORMANCES

A.I.M’s (Abraham.In.Motion) kicks off ArtPower’s 2022 live performances on Feb. 2 with their latest work, “An Untitled Love.” Drawing from the catalog of Grammy Award-winning R&B legend D’Angelo, this creative exaltation pays homage to the complexities of self-love and Black love, while serving as a thumping mixtape celebrating our culture, family and community. This performance is part of ArtPower’s dance series and takes place at the Balboa Theatre at 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at boxoffice.ucsd.edu or at 858-534-TIXS (8497). More information can be found at https://artpower.ucsd.edu/event/a-i-m-by-kyle-abrahaman-untitled-love/.

FLETCHER RE-ELECTED AS CHAIR

The San Diego County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to select Supervisor Nathan Fletcher to serve as chair for the second consecutive year. Fletcher thanked his fellow supervisors, and San Diegans for their trust and for their toughness in working through the challenging times of the pandemic and economic hardship. Fletcher added that he was inspired by County employees who “get up every single day with the sole purpose of serving the public.” In addition to naming Fletcher chair, the board also selected Supervisor Nora Vargas to continue in her role as vice chair and to have Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer serve as chair pro tempore.

GOLDEN WATCHDOG 7 FLEECE AWARDS

The 26th Annual Golden Watchdog and Fleece Awards sponsored by Liberty Station-headquartered San Diego County Taxpayers Association will be held Thursday, April 28. Nominations are due March 11.

In an effort to promote fairness and equity across nominees and jurisdictions, award categories have been revised to focus on public service area. The confidential Goldens Awards Committee will consider watchdog and fleece nominations for each of the following categories regardless of service area or size: public safety, public health, education, water and utilities and transportation and infrastructure. For information email info@sdcta.org.

CORONADO FLOWER SHOW

The Coronado Flower Show, a co-production of the Coronado Floral Association (CFA) and City of Coronado, will return April 23-24. As a volunteer-driven event, organizers are looking for dedicated individuals to help put on what is also known as the “largest tented flower show in the U.S,” a show that occupies Spreckels Park in the center of Coronado. Volunteers are needed at all levels. Email info@coronadoflowershow.com to become a volunteer. 

TRAIL NOMINATION

La Jolla’s Coast Walk Trail has been nominated for a national award, the 2022 Vernacular Architecture Forum Advocacy Award, honoring contributions to vernacular buildings and cultural landscapes. The La Jolla Coast Walk Trail runs from La Jolla Shores beach to La Jolla Cove. It is easy and scenic with parking along Coast Boulevard. This trail is sandwiched between rocky cliffs and large homes, but offers some of the most spectacular views in Southern California. Well-placed benches offer inviting places to rest and take in the vistas. The dirt path ends at a very small parking area and then proceeds along a paved street to its terminus.

GRAY WHALE CONSERVATION

Celebrate peak whale watching season and support conservation of the magnificent gray whale with an evening of cocktails, dinner and sweeping views of the coastline at Intercontinental San Diego’s venue, Vistal, at 901 Bayfront Court, as it debuts its 2022 menu on Saturday, Jan. 29 from 4:30-8 p.m. Chef Todd Bencivenni will be featuring a new twist on a sustainable and locally sourced menu and will be kicking off this event with small bites during a welcome reception paired with Gray Whale Gin cocktails. Following the reception, a three-course dinner will be served with video and educational speakers from WILDCOAST and Xplore Offshore to honor the gentle giants. A total of 20% of all ticket revenue will go directly to WILDCOAST, in support of their gray whale conservation along the Pacific Coast. Tickets are $170 per person and may be purchased via Eventbrite here.

GULLS GAMES RESCHEDULED

The San Diego Gulls, in conjunction with the American Hockey League, has announced the rescheduled dates for four games that were postponed due to COVID-19 protocols:

• The game originally scheduled for Dec. 22 (AHL Game 399) vs. the Stockton Heat will now be played on Tuesday, April 26 at Pechanga Arena San Diego (7 p.m.).

• The game originally scheduled for Dec. 27 (AHL Game 408) vs. the Ontario Reign will now be played on Wednesday, April 13 at Pechanga Arena San Diego (7 p.m.).

• The game originally scheduled for Dec. 29 (AHL Game 421) vs. the Henderson Silver Knights will now be played on Tuesday, March 22 at Pechanga Arena San Diego (7 p.m.).

• The game originally scheduled for Jan. 5 (AHL Game 457) at the Henderson Silver Knights will now be played on Tuesday, April 19 at Henderson (7 p.m.).

All tickets purchased for the original games scheduled at Pechanga Arena San Diego will be honored for the rescheduled dates. Mobile tickets will reflect the new date and time automatically in ticket holders’ AXS account. For more information, visit sandiegogulls.com.

GARTH BROOKS AT PETCO PARK

Tickets for Garth Brooks’ March 5 performance at Petco Park go on sale Jan. 14. The San Diego show will serve as Brooks’ only Stadium Tour stop on the West Coast and his only stop in California, Arizona, and Nevada. Tickets are $94.95 all-inclusive with an eight-ticket limit. There are only three ways to buy, including ticketmaster.com/garthbrooks, Garth Brooks Line at Ticketmaster 1-877-654-2784, Ticketmaster app on mobile device.

MONSTER ENERGY SUPERCROSS AT PETCO PARK

The 17-race Monster Energy AMA Supercross will make its return to Petco Park on Saturday, Jan. 22, for the third round of the 2022 season. El Cajon’s Christian Craig is the current championship leader in the 250SX West Region title fight and is heavily favored to carry the momentum to his first career professional championship. The Monster Energy Star Yamaha Racing rider is looking for his first victory in San Diego. Alpine’s Dilan Schwartz, who is embarking on his sophomore season of professional competition, is regarded as one of the most promising up-and-coming young riders in Supercross as he battles Craig and other rivals in the 250SX West Region.

SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY'S WINTER-SPRING SEASON

The San Diego Symphony's winter-spring season is underway as the Symphony will perform at different venues throughout San Diego County and beyond, bringing music directly to different neighborhoods and communities. In February, the Symphony will perform in Rancho Santa Fe, La Jolla and more.

• Four Seasons by Vivaldi and Piazzolla, Feb. 3-6, venues vary. The San Diego Symphony will perform the original rendition of Antonio Vivaldi's The Four Seasons and the adaptation by Argentinian composer Astor Piazzolla, alongside young guest violinist Elena Urioste. Conducted by Christopher Dragon, these catchy arrangements will be performed at the following venues Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center (Feb. 3 and Feb. 6); The Village Church Rancho Santa Fe (Feb. 4); Southwestern College (Feb. 5).

• Payare Leads Tchaikovsky, Feb. 25-26, venues vary. The San Diego Symphony's vibrant music director Rafael Payare will lead the Symphony through a variety of arrangements including Tchaikovsky's Fourth Symphony, the U.S. premiere of Venezuelan composer Paquito D'Rivera's new concerto with guest performance by trumpeter Pacho Flores and an enchanting orchestral firework by young, California-based composer Andrew Norman. This will be performed at the Reneé & Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa (Feb. 25) and San Diego Civic Theatre (Feb. 26).

LA JOLLA COMMUNITY CENTER'S DISTINGUISHED SPEAKER SERIES

Dr. Joseph Wang will speak about wearable sensors on the body and how these devices can help manage disease and monitor health status Tuesday, Feb. 8, 10-11 a.m. (virtual presentation). Wang will present an overview of wearable sensors — devices that can continuously and non-invasively collect vital health information from a person’s body and provide this information in a timely fashion. This presentation will examine the current applications of these devices — how they are being used, how they are applied and what information they are able to provide for both the individual and their providers.

THE BAND’S VISIT

Broadway San Diego ~ A Nederlander Presentation announced that the individual tickets for the tour of “The Band’s Visit,” featuring music and lyrics by Tony and Drama Desk Award-winner David Yazbek, are now on sale. Opening night is set for Tuesday, March 1 at 7:30 p.m. “The Band’s Visit” is apart of Broadway San Diego’s 44th Season, sponsored by San Diego County Credit Union. Tickets are available by visiting BroadwaySD.com. “The Band's Visit” is one of four musicals in Broadway history to win the unofficial "Big Six" Tony Awards, which include Best Musical, Best Book, Best Score, Best Actor in a Musical, Best Actress in a Musical, and Best Direction of a Musical.

TASENDE GALLERY EXHIBITION

Tasende Gallery is pleased to present the exhibition Jose Luis Cuevas, Jan. 28 through March 26 at 820 Prospect St. On exhibit will be 15 drawings dating from 1973 through 1984. Twelve of the works are from the Intolerance series, drawings inspired by the historical document The Witches’ Advocate detailing the Inquisition in the Basque Country in the early 17th century. Gregorio Luke will give a lecture on Jose Luis Cuevas at La Jolla’s Athenaeum on Thursday, March 10 at 7:30 p.m. Gallery hours are Tuesdays-Fridays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturdays 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The opening reception will take place Thursday, Jan. 27 from 5-7 p.m.  

LA JOLLA COMMUNITY CENTER EVENTS

January events at La Jolla Community Center include Opera Wednesdays on Jan. 12 at 7 p.m. Enjoy southern California's top performing artists as they share the gift of their voice in-person. Suggested donation $10-20. County Supervisor Nathan Fletcher launches the 2022 Distinguished Speaker Series on Tuesday, Jan. 18. This is a virtual event. Lecture is from 6-7 p.m. Free.

Many new classes beginning this month including: Bridge 10-week courses (in-person). Multiple levels of instruction available starting Jan. 31 (various dates). Cost is $225. Mahjong for beginniners six-week course (in-person), starting Jan. 12 from 2-4:30 p.m. Cost is $175. Strength and Balance every Wednesday from 9:30-10:30 a.m. (in-person). Free for members. The Skylarks ’50s doowop concert. Take a trip down memory lane with this all-girl band singing oldies from the ’50s and ’60s rock ‘n’ roll era and beyond on Friday, Jan. 28 at 6 p.m. Cost is $15.

LJ MAD DECEMBER REPORT

Chief among objectives in the early days of 2022 is to further bolster coordination with vendors, enhancing the value provided by the La Jolla maintenance assessment district (MAD) in janitorial, maintenance and landscaping efforts, said the Enhance La Jolla board, which continues to be instrumental in successfully attending to every corner of the special district, from Torrey Pines Road to Pearl Street and Coast Boulevard to Park Row.

“Many activities planned for 2022 are built on recent work schedule modifications and project successes realized in 2021. The first objective for 2022 will be to ensure that all maintenance, janitorial and landscaping activities continue to improve neighborhood aesthetics and bolster civic partnerships created from shared projects and goals, whether small, such as weed abatement, or large, such as working with the La Jolla Community Foundation as the Streetscape Plan begins to take place,” according to Enhance La Jolla.

MAD personnel continue to work with vendors daily, ensuring immediate response to items requiring attention. The communication frequency between MAD personnel and vendors has led to improved response times during 2021. In addition to daily and weekly focus areas, MAD personnel and vendors meet monthly for several hours, physically walking the district to identify larger projects and areas in need of extra care. If you see an issue needing attention within the district, contact Enhance La Jolla at 858-444- 5892 or manager@enhancelajolla.org.

ART WALK

The next Friday art walk in La Jolla Village will be Jan. 7 from 4 to 7 p.m. Wine and snacks will be provided at participating art galleries, including Contemporary Fine Arts Gallery at 7946 Ivanhoe Ave., which, among others, will be featuring paintings by La Jollan Peggy Hinaekian whose "Water Frolics" painting will be on silent auction.

PB LIBRARY OPEN FOR LIMITED IN-PERSON SERVICES

The Pacific Beach/Taylor Branch Library is currently open for a number of limited In-person services includingitem checkout, computer usage, printing, holds pickup, reference, browsing and library account assistance.

• Hours of service are:

  • Monday-Tuesday from 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

  • Wednesday-Saturday from 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

  • Sunday: closed.

• Masking guidelines inside all San Diego Public Libraries:

  • Mask required (regardless of vaccination status) through at least Jan. 15.

• Closed on Monday, Jan. 17 for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

For all of the latest information about library services, visit sandiego.gov/public-library/in-person-library-services.

LJ RESTAURANT SPRING OPENING

Delayed by the pandemic, Marisi Italiano is now planning for a spring 2022 arrival in La Jolla. Developed the Adler family and named for their grandparents, the Italian restaurant is opening directly adjacent to the Wall Street location of the Adler’s Puesto Mexican Artisan Kitchen & Bar. The new restaurant replaces Whisknlade, the neighborhood institution that shuttered in 2020 after a dozen years in operation.

Operating for lunch and dinner, Marisi’s design is inspired by the Amalfi Coast and its cliffside towns along the Mediterranean. Originally intending to launch early last year with former Cesarina chef Patrick Money, who currently helms Ambrogio15 at Sky Deck, the restaurant will now be led by Chad Huff, who comes to San Diego from Los Angeles where he was most recently the executive chef at Broad Street Oyster Co. in Malibu.

RAIL SERVICE SUSPENDED

All Coaster and Amtrak Pacific Surfliner services along the San Diego segment of the Los Angeles-San Diego – San Luis Obispo coastal rail corridor will be suspended from Jan. 8 at midnight until Jan. 10 at 5 a.m. due to an absolute work window. No passenger or freight trains will operate between Oceanside and Downtown San Diego. You can stay informed about train service updates by visiting GoNCTD.com, Amtrak.com, or MetrolinkTrains.com.

AIRPORT BOND FINANCING

The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority has completed a major bond financing totaling $1.94 billion. Approximately $1.58 billion of the bonds will be used to pay for a portion of the New Termnal 1 program and achieved a true interest cost of 3.34 percent.

“The Airport Authority continues to be in a strong financial position and this bond sale reflects the market’s confidence in our ability to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Kimberly Becker, Airport Authority president and CEO. “These funds allow us to continue the momentum of the New T1, providing funds for construction and in turn benefiting the region through jobs and economic investment.” 

CANCER DONATION

Curebound, a nonprofit representing a partnership between Padres Pedal the Cause and the Immunotherapy Foundation, has donated $500,000 to UC San Diego and La Jolla Institute for Immunology completing a pledge to a novel cancer immunotherapy trial initiated by UCSD, LJI and Immunotherapy Foundation. Curebound’s donation will ensure the trial’s completion, which holds great promise for patients and progress in cancer immuno-oncology. The organization will continue to initiate cutting-edge research collaborations between top cancer centers through further grant funding throughout the year.

NEW OUTPATIENT PAVILLION

A Dec. 17 celebratory groundbreaking event marked the beginning of a comprehensive revitalization project of UC San Diego Health’s Hillcrest campus, which upon completion will feature state-of-the-art facilities, expanded patient care services and technologies and other community amenities to promote wellbeing. Phase 1 of the project includes a 250,000-square-foot outpatient pavilion and a new parking structure with approximately 1,850 spaces for employees, patients and visitors, with both anticipated to open in 2025.

The outpatient pavilion will address the growing demand for specialized diagnostic, treatment and surgical services and will house specialty clinical programs, including oncology, neurosurgery, urology, otolaryngology and orthopedics, as well as ambulatory surgery operating rooms, gastroenterology procedure rooms, advanced imaging, infusion and radiation oncology.

WASTEWATER MONITORING RECOGNIZED

Two state agencies have formally recognized the City of San Diego’s Public Utilities Department for its assistance in monitoring wastewater in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. “The monitoring of wastewater can provide key information that is helpful in understanding and preventing the spread of COVID-19,” said Shauna Lorance, director of the Public Utilities Department. “We are very proud to continue providing assistance to state and federal agencies with these efforts.”

Public Utilities and several other California agencies and institutions pioneered an approach that better assesses the spread of COVID-19 through testing wastewater, according to the State Water Quality Control Board. This approach yields information about the prevalence of the diseases in populations several days sooner than individual testing and hospitalization records, the board stated. 

The City has been voluntarily involved with multiple studies for COVID-19 monitoring of wastewater since the beginning of the pandemic. City staff efforts predate the development of federal and state epidemiology programs, and data collected were critical in helping to understand the spread, movement and control of the virus in our communities. When the studies are completed, the information will be shared with the public.  

GONZALEZ RESIGNS

Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez has resigned from the state legislature for a leadership position at the California Labor Federation, AFL-CIO. The San Diego Democrat represented the 80th Assembly District, which encompasses the southern part of San Diego and most of Chula Vista and National City, for eight years. She said will be preparing to lead the 2.1 million-member state labor federation as its executive secretary-treasurer in July 2022.
“As a legislator and as a labor leader, my top priority has been to create opportunities that lead to more jobs, better jobs, and better lives for working people,'' Gonzalez said. “It's been an honor to serve the people of San Diego County and the entire state as a lawmaker who tried to accomplish the most amount of good for the most amount of people.”

AVOID SIERRA TRAVEL

Caltrans Director Toks Omishakin is urging motorists to avoid non-essential mountain travel in California until weather conditions improve. Caltrans has closed 45 state highways since Dec. 24 due to record snowfall in the Sierra Nevada. While Caltrans has reopened 29 highways – including Interstate 80 and U.S. Highway 50, the main gateways to Lake Tahoe – roadway conditions remain challenging with extensive delays and chain controls in effect. In response to the record snowfall, Caltrans has redirected all available crews into the mountains to reopen roadways, bringing operators from as far away as the Bay Area to assist. The department has 1,350 field staff clearing mountain highways, working 24/7 in 12-hour shifts, and has deployed more than 600 snowplows statewide.

OTAY CONNECTION COMPLETED

On Dec. 16, federal, state, local, and Mexican Government officials joined Caltrans and SANDAG to commemorate the completion of the southbound State Route 125 (SR 125) to eastbound State Route 905 (SR 905) and State Route 11 (SR 11) connectors in Otay Mesa. The new connectors provide a direct highway connection from East County and Chula Vista to the Otay Mesa area and existing Otay Mesa Port of Entry, helping to reduce congestion for passenger and commercial vehicles crossing the border and increasing access to employment opportunities for surrounding residents.

GULLS SEASON EXTENDED

The American Hockey League Board of Governors has approved the extension of the 2021-22 calendar by six days. The regular season will now conclude on April 30 for all teams including the San Diego Gulls who play their home games at Pechanga Arena in the Midway District. The 2022 Calder Cup Playoffs are expected to finish before June 30.

BUB’S PB BACHELOR SPECIALS

Bub’s at the Beach at 1030 Garnet Ave. has launched Monday night bachelor specials. Every Monday, beginning at 7 p.m., bachelor fans can come by for signature cocktails, as well half-priced bottles of wine, and Ashland Hard Seltzer, $5 for a glass or $20 for a pitcher.

JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL

Tickets for the 32nd Annual San Diego International Jewish Film Festival are now on sale. Over the course of 12 days, choose from over 30 different films and TV programs. The majority of these screenings can be enjoyed either in person at the Lawrence Family JCC's David & Dorothea Garfield Theatre or virtually from the comfort of your home. In addition to the collection of films and TV series, in-person and virtual live programs will take place throughout the festival. The 31st annual San Diego International Jewish Film Festival will be held Feb. 11-21.  

WOMEN IN SCIENCE

The Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park is now accepting applications for the Better Education for Women in Science and Engineering program through Feb. 7. BE WiSE is a free program that engages girls in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) learning experiences in collaboration with the region's research, industry and academic institutions. For more information on the Fleet's BE WiSE program, visit fleetscience.org/bewise. 

EATING FOR SUCCESSFUL AGING  

Eating For Successful Aging with The University of Southern California’s Ed Scheider, MD, and Belmont Village Senior Living will take place on Jan. 12 at 10 a.m. To learn more and register for this virtual event, visit https://bit.ly/EatingForSuccessfulAging. January is the month of “new” and, for many of us, that could mean new diets or supplements. But should we get caught up in fad diets? Gerontologist and nutrition expert Dr. Schneider will discuss why it’s time to throw away most of your supplements, nutrition tips every senior should know, and what we should know about the Mediterranean diet. He’ll share senior-oriented information about organic foods, weight and longevity, wine and more.

CAMPOS NAMED SD LOYAL SC PRESIDENT

San Diego Loyal SC announced the appointment of Ricardo Campos as the club’s president following his work as the interim president during the 2021 season. Campos had served as interim president since July 2021. Campos is a tri-lingual soccer executive with more than 15 years of league and team experience in the U.S. soccer landscape and has been involved with the club since it was founded in 2019. He served as SD Loyal’s vice president of operations and general manager prior being appointed interim president and being ahead of the club’s first USL Championship playoff appearance. SD Loyal kicks off the 2022 USL Championship season Saturday, March 12 with a home match against LA Galaxy II (7 p.m.) at Torero Stadium at USD. Seats can be purchased by calling 858-465-GOAL or by visiting sdloyal.com/fullseason. 

LACY YOUNGER AT PAC SHORES

Local singer/songwriter Lacy Younger is back with new music and will be shooting the video for the first single "New Man" from her upcoming album “For The Record” - both slated for release in February. The video shoot takes place at the legendary Pacific Shores bar in Ocean Beach on Jan. 10 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., and features a cameo from iconic female rock guitarist Roni Lee of Runaways fame. "It is important to me that this video capture the flavor of the Point Loma/Ocean Beach area, a neighborhood near and dear to my heart," said Younger. "Pacific Shores brings me a warm nostalgic vibe and I'm excited to celebrate my new music with the community I call home."

ELLEN SCHMEDING ELECTED TO EDJCC

St. Paul’s Senior Services’ vice president and chief operating officer Ellen Schmeding was recently elected to the first California Elder and Disability Justice Coordinating Council (EDJCC), by the California Commission on Aging, a position elected by her peers. The EDJCC is a key component of the Master Plan for Aging’s (MPA) Goal Three: Equity & Inclusion, Not Isolation. Initiative #93 of the MPA specifically calls for the creation of the EDJCC to advance the pursuit of building a California that is just for all, regardless of age and ability.

RESTORATION ADVISORY BOARD MEETING

The next Restoration Advisory Board (RAB) meeting for the Naval Base Point Loma Complex Environmental Restoration Program is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 19 at 6 p.m. to discuss relevant issues. This will be a virtual meeting and it is open to the public. To request a link for this virtual meeting, contact Kellie Koenig at Kellie.Koenig@jacobs.com. For more information, call 619-556-8926.