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GB Magazine San Diego March 2024 Edition!

GB Magazine, San Diego's premier monthly publication, has been a leading voice in arts, culture, philanthropy, and events since 2007. Our dynamic multimedia platforms connect advertisers with high-value readers, spotlighting those making a difference in the San Diego and Tijuana communities. The main purpose of the San Diego Food Bank Gala is to gather people and do something for the end of hunger in San Diego by supporting their vision and also donate money to the organization so they will work efficiently for a great cause. Amy Jacobs and Jeanne Johnson Bollinger are co-chairs of the San Diego Food Bank Gala and all of us need to support them and many more things cover in this March 2024 Edition.

GB Magazine, San Diego's premier monthly publication, has been a leading voice in arts, culture, philanthropy, and events since 2007. Our dynamic multimedia platforms connect advertisers with high-value readers, spotlighting those making a difference in the San Diego and Tijuana communities. The main purpose of the San Diego Food Bank Gala is to gather people and do something for the end of hunger in San Diego by supporting their vision and also donate money to the organization so they will work efficiently for a great cause.
Amy Jacobs and Jeanne Johnson Bollinger are co-chairs of the San Diego Food Bank Gala and all of us need to support them and many more things cover in this March 2024 Edition.

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BUSINESS PHILANTHROPY COMMUNITY

GALA CO-CHAIRS

JEANNIE JOHNSON BOLINGER

& AMY JACOBS WITH

CEO CASEY CASTILLO

SEE PAGE 95

$5.95 US

MARCH 2024



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For the ultimate experience in luxury shopping, visit cjcharles.com


CONTENTS

6 What We Love

March 2024

10 Realty

Navigating San Diego’s

2024 Real Estate Boom

12 Luncheon

Inspiring Change

Co-Publishers

16 Heroes

A New Mission For Veterans

18 Music

Resounding Joy

22 Museum

Marvelous Minds

24 Education

Southwestern College Alumni

26 Ribbon Cutting

SD Auto Museum Library

30 Community

College Friends Turned

Philanthropic Behemoths

32 Nostalgia

Ken Kramer’s About San Diego

34 Luncheon

Tea By The Sea

38 Reception

Donor Appreciation

42 Health

Alzheimer’s Association San

Diego & Imperial Chapters

TOKYO

44 Benefit

The Silver Tea

50 SWA Community

Chicano Federation

52 Celebration

SNAP San Diego

54 Community

Balboa Park: Navigating Progress

56 Entertainment

The Musical Odyssey Of

NRG Music & Productions

58 Recognition

San Diego Impact

76 Education

BLCI

78 Community

Women Give San Diego

82 Legacy

Women’s Museum Of California

86 Fundraiser

The Fleet Science Center’s Gala

Celebration

88 Escapadita

Japan

94 Calendar

March 2024

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ESTEBAN VILLANUEVA

ESTEBAN@GBSAN.COM

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

DANITZA VILLANUEVA

DANITZA@GBSAN.COM

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

ROSARIO HEER

DIANNA IPPOLITO

SANDY SPEAR, IN MEMORIAM

JOSÉ LUIS VENEGAS

EDITORIAL DESIGN

SHERDELLAH ANUNCIADO

PHOTO EDITORS

ROSARIO HEER

JOSE MARTINEZ

WEB DESIGN

JOSE MARTINEZ

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

KEN KRAMER

PAPA DOUG MANCHESTER

NICHOLE NAOUM

LORI WALTON

TRANSLATIONS

CAROLINA WALLACE

CIRCULATION MANAGER

DANIELA HANI

DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER

CAMERON NICHOLS

ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT

(619) 260-8353

INFO@GBSAN.COM

DAESVI L.L.C.

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WWW.GBSAN.COM

INFO@GBSAN.COM

GIVING BACK MAGAZINE IS ENVIRONMENTALLY

RESPONSIBLE. THIS MAGAZINE IS PRINTED

ON 100% RECYCLABLE, ENVIRONMENTALLY

FRIENDLY PAPER FROM MANAGED FORESTS

AND OTHER SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS. ALL INKS

USED ARE SOY BASED. OUR PRINTERS MEET OR

EXCEED ALL FEDERAL RESOURCE CONSERVATION

RECOVERY ACT (RCRA) STANDARDS.

MISSION VALLEY, LATE 1940s

60 Reception

BLCI Open House

62 Ribbon Cutting

San Diego Automotive Museum

64 Gala

World Of Wonders

70 Film

San Diego Latino Film Festival

72 Brunch

Women’s Philanthropy

74 Outreach

Judges’ Luncheon

95 Official Program

San Diego Food Bank Gala

ON THE COVER: JEANNIE JOHNSON

BOLINGER, AMY JACOBS AND CASEY CASTILLO

LOCATION: SAN DIEGO FOOD BANK MIRAMAR

WAREHOUSE

4 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024 /GIVINGBACKMAGAZINE @GBMAG

@GIVINGBACKMAGAZINE

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Join us in honoring this year’s Cool Women, exemplary individuals whose

personal and professional lives make them consummate role models for girls.

Thursday, March 21 | 11:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines

Suzie Alarcón

Co-Founder, AUGenomics

Director of the Next

Generation Sequencing Core,

La Jolla Institute for Immunology

Kim Folsom

Founder and

Chief Executive Officer,

Founders First

Capital Partners

Martha Gilmer

Chief Executive Officer,

San Diego Symphony

Orchestra

Pamela

Gray Payton

Vice President, Chief Impact

and Partnerships Officer,

San Diego Foundation

Hon. Sherry

Thompson-Taylor

Judge,

San Diego Superior Court

Special thanks to

CO-CHAIRS

Barbara Bry

2001 Cool Woman

Chief Operating Officer,

Blackbird Ventures

Divya Kakaiya, Ph.D., M.S.

2009 Cool Woman

Clinical Director, Founder,

Healthy Within

PEARL SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

Julia R. Brown

HONORARY COMMITTEE

Barbara Bry and Neil Senturia

Carlo and Nadine Daleo

Carol Dedrich and Alex Nurse

Barbara and David Groce

Divya Kakaiya

Sue and John Major

Emily and David Rex

Katie and Dan Sullivan

Wrethinking, the Foundation

Proceeds from the event support programs that empower Girl Scouts to use

their voices, develop a strong sense of self, and build resilience.

Learn more and register at sdgirlscouts.org/coolwomen

@SDGirlScouts | #CoolWomen2024


What We Love

WHAT WE LOVE: MARCH

Festival of Science & Engineering

Ignite the spark of curiosity and a love for STEAM

education on March 2 for a day filled with innovation,

inspiration, and endless possibilities. The Festival at

Snapdragon is introducing a new space: The Art

Pavilion. This space serves as a vibrant canvas for

students and community groups to showcase

their creative works of art, infusing the STEM

experience with artistic flair. Be sure to mark

your calendars!

www.lovestemsd.org

San Diego Latino Film

Festival

Media Arts Center San

Diego’s San Diego Latino Film

Festival runs March 14 - 24 at

AMC Mission Valley & Digital

Gym CINEMA.

150+ Latino

movie premieres,

celebrities,

filmmakers, parties,

Sonido Latino

Concerts, Arte

Latino. Sabor

Latino Food Fest, y

más! All proceeds

benefit Media Arts

Center San Diego,

a non-profit, and its

youth media arts

education programs

throughout San Diego County.

www.sdlatinofilm.com

6 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Cherry Blossom Festival

As Spring arrives in San Diego,

Balboa Park is poised to

become a site for unlimited

photo opportunities during

this year’s Cherry Blossom

Festival. From March 7-10,

festivalgoers can experience all

aspects of Japanese

culture from

Kamishibai theater

to more than 200

cherry trees spread

over the grounds

of the Japanese

Friendship Garden.

www.niwa.org/cbw

Cool Women

Each year, Girl Scouts San

Diego honors exemplary

women whose personal

and professional lives

make them consummate

role models for girls.

On March 21, the Cool

Women Luncheon will

host a mentoring session

and ceremony where

these female leaders

share the spotlight

with Emerging Leader

Girl Scouts, who are

recognized for their

outstanding achievements

by their mentors and

community leaders.

www.sdgirlscouts.org


MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 7


ESCAPADITA.TRAVEL


City Guide

Travel Tips

Destinations

San Diego Weekend Getaways

San Diego Day Trips

Visit the new website at escapadita.travel


Realty

Navigating San Diego’s

2024 Real Estate Boom

INSIGHTS FROM KERRY APPLEBY

Del Mar Estate

In San Diego’s tumultuous real estate market, Kerry

Appleby from Appleby Family Group offers valuable

perspectives on the trends shaping 2024. With

a finger on the market’s pulse, Kerry delves into

notable trends, North County’s performance, and

imparts expert advice for both buyers and sellers.

The housing shortage and low inventory create

a favorable climate for sellers, especially with

mortgage rates expected to settle around 6% - 7%

by spring. Despite strong buyer demand, Kerry

emphasizes the need for realistic pricing to optimize

opportunities for sellers.

In North County, sellers maintain a slight advantage

overall, while Rancho Santa Fe sees a shift in favor of

buyers. Notably, price reductions in larger estates make

sellers more open to negotiations. Coastal markets like

Point Loma, La Jolla, and Del Mar remain popular, with

Carmel Valley leading as the fastest-moving market.

As the San Diego market propels into 2024, Kerry

Appleby underscores the intricate dynamics

influencing both buyers and sellers. The current surge

in home prices, averaging $912K as of December 2023,

lays the groundwork for what promises to be a pivotal

year for San Diego’s real estate sector.

10 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


Bolstered by a forecast

predicting an 11.0% uptick

in home sales and a 5.4%

rise in median sales prices,

San Diego is poised to

secure its position as the

fourth-strongest U.S. real

estate market in 2024.

A testament to the city’s

desirability, this forecast is

music to the ears of both

buyers and sellers.

On the seller’s front, Kerry

stresses the significance of

pre-market preparations.

Collaborating with a network

of professionals, Appleby

Family Group assists sellers in

making cosmetic renovations,

decluttering, and presenting

their homes in the best possible

light. The advice extends to

downsizing sellers, encouraging

them to consider consignment

and donation options to meet the

high demand for turn-key homes.

Andrew, Kerry and Scott Appleby

The San Diego real estate market requires

a blend of market knowledge, strategic

planning, and community engagement.

The success of Appleby Family Group is not only rooted in market

expertise but also in the strength of relationships with fellow

agents. Kerry highlights the strategic advantage gained through

weekly communication with other agents, providing early access

to market insights and off-market listings.

In a city known for its diverse

neighborhoods and scenic

beauty, navigating the San

Diego real estate market

requires a blend of market

knowledge, strategic planning,

and community engagement.

As the Appleby Family Group

remains a trusted ally in this

dynamic landscape, Kerry

Appleby’s insights serve as a

valuable compass for those

navigating the exciting and

competitive San Diego real

estate scene in 2024.

Fairbanks Ranch Living

www.applebyfamilygroup.com

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 11


Luncheon

Inspiring

Change

Allie, Richard, Gretchen

and Kimmie Veihl

National Philanthropy Day

was conceived in the 1980s,

and the first official event

was held in 1986 after

President Ronald Reagan

signed an official NPD proclamation.

The day provides an opportunity to

reflect on the meaning of giving and

all that it has made possible. NPD

in San Diego celebrated the endless

daily contributions individuals and

organizations across the city make to

our community.

Ingrid DeLlamas, Kathryn Cline, Amie

Brown and Wendy Urushima-Conn

Michael Hopkins

and Jenny Aldrich

Sandy Gross, Ben

Moraga and Lauren Lazar

Veronica Macedo, Neville

Billimoria and Liz Ramirez

Rosanne Holliday, John

Venekamp and Linda Katz

12 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


Let us help. California Early Start is a state and federally-funded

program that provides FREE assessments to infants and toddlers

(birth-3) and, if needed, therapeutic services. The services are

planned and delivered to help prevent or lessen the need for special

services later and to assue your child is off to the best start possible.

Call San Diego Regional Center (SDRC)

(858) 496-4318 or our partners,

Exceptional Family Resource Center (EFRC)

(619) 594-7416

Se habla español


Luncheon

National Philanthropy Day se

instauró en 1980, teniendo

su primer evento oficial en

1986 con la firma oficial de

la proclamación NPD por el

presidente Ronald Reagan. Esta fecha es

una oportunidad para reflexionar sobre

nuestra solidaridad y sobre lo que la

hace posible. NPD en San Diego quiere

celebrar las infinitas contribuciones por

parte de individuos u organizaciones de

la ciudad que se hacen constantemente

en beneficio de nuestra comunidad.

Alberto Mier y Teran

and Ana Melgoza

Adrianna O’Donnell

and Kasim Omidiji

Brooke Truesdale

and Lauri Torio

Edward Dawson, Patty

Bribriesca and Rose Courtney

Pana Hap, Megan Ray, Renata

Martins, Sidd Vivek and Laura Pitts

Carol Dedrich and

Elizabeth Fitzsimmons

14 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


Cheryl and James

Floros with Nuria Haro

Judy Kinsell, Karen

Isaacs and Kelly Craig

Tamika Franklin

and Katie Gomez

Martin Dickinson, Debra and John

DeWald and Rebecca Dickinson Welch

Regina Bernal, Alison Bushan, Coreen

Petti, Renda Queen and Derek Leg

Carol Dedrich and

Ted Teravainen

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 15


Heroes

A New Mission for Veterans

Corporate partner Boeing provided

$150,000 to support training women

In the vibrant Barrio Logan neighborhood just

south of downtown San Diego, a unique initiative

has taken root - one that addresses the challenges

veterans face when transitioning from activeduty,

while also contributing to

the revitalization of American

manufacturing. Workshops

for Warriors (WFW), spearheaded

by 15-year Navy combat veteran

Hernán Luis y Prado, is emblematic

of what our military veterans can

achieve when provided with a new

skillset and opportunities that open doors to wellpaying

careers after service.

Luis y Prado founded Workshops for Warriors as a

solution to the transition struggles many veterans

16 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Approximately

200,000 people

leave the U.S.

military every year.

encounter when leaving the military. Established

in 2008, the organization provides veterans with

training in welding, machining, and advanced

manufacturing. Beyond technical proficiency and

portable certifications, WFW provides

its students with wrap-around services

that include food, clothing, housing if

needed, financial aid, and soft-skills

learning sessions. To date, more than

1,207 veterans have graduated from

the school with more than 14,400

advanced manufacturing credentials.

More than just a training ground, Workshops for

Warriors serves as a launching pad for veterans

seeking meaningful careers in an industry desperate

for workers. Approximately 200,000 people leave the


please come for

a tour. WFW

is expanding

their campus

to be able to

serve even

more deserving

veterans. There

are many

opportunities

to support this

growth and our

veterans.

Machining 1 Students in WFW’s

HAAS Technical Education Center

U.S. military every year, while more than 803,000

manufacturing jobs are currently unfilled due to a

lack of skilled labor. WFW is actively closing the

gap between military and civilian employment;

at the same time, it is creating a skilled workforce

primed to contribute to the resurgence of American

manufacturing.

To ensure WFW receives steady funding, Luis y

Prado started VetPowered, a for-profit enterprise

and registered apprenticeship program that counts

companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and

Northrop Grumman among its clients for machining,

fabrication, and machinery repair

contracts. VetPowered provides an

important link connecting industry

leaders eager to support veterans

while fulfilling a significant need in

the manufacturing industry. These

partnerships not only aid veterans

in their transition, but it also plays

a pivotal role in fortifying American

manufacturing.

Join us at the

annual gala on

September 14,

2024, on the

iconic USS

Midway for an evening of inspiration. Meet students

and learn how you can make a meaningful impact on

the lives and future veterans as they become skilled

workers for American manufacturing.

Workshops for Warriors is changing veterans’ lives

every day, empowering veterans to rebuild their

lives and contribute to the resurgence of American

manufacturing — a cause worthy of all Americans’

attention and celebration.

To support WFW veterans and the Rebuilding of

American Manufacturing, please visit www.wfw.org.

WFW proudly boasts 87 percent

of all donations are allocated to

training programs. WFW is also

rated Platinum Transparency from

Candid (formerly Guidestar) in

2023. To see students learning

welding and machining on site,

Veterans training on machines

donated and entrusted by HAAS

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 17


Music

Resounding Joy

Resounding Joy celebrated their 20th Anniversary

with a Benefit Event at a private home in Point

Loma. Resounding Joy has been making music

and spreading joy for 20 years and they wanted

to celebrate with everyone who has benefited

from their music therapy services. The event honored

the retirement of Dr. Barbara Reuer, CEO and Founder

of Resounding Joy and the appointment of Kerri Fox as

the new CEO. Barbara has spent a lifetime helping to

establish and build the music therapy community in San

Diego and Kerri seeks to continue the momentum.

Kent Haythorn, Brenda and

Carlos lemas with Kevin Maddox

Noelle Pederson, Davida

Price and Hadley Rentz

Carol and Brock

Kaericher

Robert Shen and

Sarineh Aboolian

Ed and Taryn

Gillison

Christa Meathe

and Elaine Weim

18 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Barbara Reuer, Sylvia

Imm and Kerri Fox

Dali Collins and

Alice Robbins



Music

Resounding Joy celebró su 20°

aniversario con un evento a beneficio

realizado en una residencia privada

de Point Loma. Resounding Joy viene

difundiendo la música y la alegría desde

hace 20 años y quieren festejar este importante

momento con todas las personas a las que

han tenido llegada con sus servicios de terapia

musical. La ocasión también quiso homenajear a

la Dra. Barbara Reuer, fundadora de Resounding

Joy, quien se retira y da lugar a la nueva CEO,

Kerri Fox. Barbara ha dedicado su vida a instalar y construir

la musicoterapia como elemento sanador en la comunidad

de San Diego y Kerri busca continuar con el legado.

Kerrie Foss, Kay Horst

and Franca Ortisi

Pete Thistle, Cailey

Garner and Jeff Moore

Diane and

Dick Beckman

Beth and

Craig Winters

Courtney and

Doug Oliphant

Sara and

Melissa Tor

20 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Cassandra Hess

and Alicia Coleman

Joseph Dolling

and Merle Horst


ELECTION DAY

IS COMING

ARE YOU

READY?

We’ve made it easy to become

an informed voter. Before you

cast your ballot, visit

www.kpbs.org/voterhub

OR

SCAN THE

QR CODE

KPBS is a public service of San Diego State University.

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 21


Museum

Marvelous

Minds

C

omic-Con Museum

hosted an exclusive

presentation of

Marvelous Minds:

Stan Lee & the

Architects of Our Modern Mythology

with Michael Uslan. Michael is a

comic book historian and executive

producer of the Batman film

franchise. He explored the genius that

was Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, Steve Ditko,

and many others. Through Michael’s

personal stories and anecdotes,

guests relived the history behind the

incredible collaborative effort that

brought some of the world’s most

iconic heroes and villains to life.

Michael Uslan and

Rita Vandergaw

Angel de Luz and

Michanne Hoctor

Briana, Carl, Nick

and Lisa Rischar

22 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Eddie Ibrahim

and Paul Pursch

Graham and

Celina Husted

Mark and

Siena Karris

E

l Museo

del

Comic

Con

llevó

adelante la exclusiva

presentación de

Marvelous Minds: Stan

Lee y los arquitectos

de nuestra moderna

mitología, presentado

por Michael Uslan.

Michael es historiador

de cómics y

productor ejecutivo

de la franquicia

fílmica de Batman.

Ha explorado la

genialidad de Stan

Lee, Jack Kirby y

Steve Dirko entre

otros, y a través

de sus anécdotas e

historias personales,

los presentes

podrán revivir

los procesos

que se llevaron

adelante en este

tremendo esfuerzo

colaborativo para

dar vida a algunos

de los más icónicos

héroes y villanos.



Education

Southwestern College Alumni

DEFYING STEREOTYPES, EXCELING IN

NON-TRADITIONAL PROFESSIONS

In a world

where

gender

stereotypes

Dennise Gurmilan

often dictate

career

choices, three remarkable women, who are all

Southwestern College (SWC) alums, are challenging

norms and excelling in professions traditionally

dominated by men. Their journeys showcase the

transformative power of education, determination, and

breaking barriers.

Dennise Gurmilan, an Architecture & Planning

Professional at Gensler, vividly remembers her journey

at SWC. “Southwestern College was more than just an

academic institution to me; it is where I discovered a

career I wanted

to pursue,”

says Gurmilan.

Throughout her

time at SWC, she

found unwavering

support from the community, which inspired her

to give back. Today, Gurmilan is helping create

internships for SWC students, aiming to provide the

same opportunities she once received. Her dedication

to mentoring the next generation of architects speaks

volumes about the impact of her SWC experience.

Moreover, Gurmilan’s journey highlights the

importance of representation in non-traditional fields,

inspiring others to pursue their passions regardless of

societal expectations.

24 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


Anitra Willis

Anitra Willis, currently serving

as the Director of Enrollment

Management Technology Services

at UC San Diego found her path

to success through SWC’s Career

Center. “Being a first-generation,

low-income student, the SWC

Student Career Center was

tremendous in helping introduce

and guide me,” she shares. Willis

credits SWC for igniting her

passion for technology, leading

her to a fulfilling career and

various community initiatives.

Her journey from SWC to UC

San Diego stands as a testament

to the transformative impact of

education and mentorship. Willis’s

commitment to giving back to the

community through mentorship

programs and educational initiatives

underscores her belief in the power

of education to uplift individuals and

communities. Additionally, Willis’s

advocacy for diversity and inclusion in

the tech industry serves as a beacon of

inspiration for underrepresented groups

aspiring to enter STEM fields.

Roxana Kennedy, Chief of Police in the City of Chula Vista, is

a trailblazer in law enforcement. A graduate of the SWC Police

Academy, Kennedy’s journey to leadership embodies resilience

and innovation. “I am forever grateful to Southwestern College

for the experiences and exceptional instructors who invested

in me,” says Kennedy. Under her guidance, the Chula Vista

Police Department has embraced technology, community

engagement, and transparency, transforming it into an agency

that empowers and connects. Her commitment to professional

growth and community welfare extends beyond law

enforcement, as she actively participates in various nonprofit

organizations and international medical missions. Kennedy’s

leadership at the forefront of modern law enforcement

exemplifies the values instilled by SWC, emphasizing integrity,

inclusivity, and service to the community. Moreover, Kennedy’s

success underscores the importance of diversity in law

enforcement leadership, paving the way for more inclusive and

community-centered policing practices.

These remarkable women

alumni exemplify SWC’s

commitment to fostering

excellence and breaking

barriers. Their stories serve

as inspiring examples of

resilience, determination,

and the transformative

power of education.

Through their dedication

and leadership, they inspire

future generations to pursue

their passions, challenge

stereotypes, and make a

positive impact on their

communities.

At a time when diversity and

inclusion are paramount,

Southwestern College

Chief Roxana Kennedy

takes pride in nurturing

individuals like Dennise

Gurmilan, Anitra Willis, and Roxana Kennedy, who embody the spirit

of breaking barriers and paving the way for a more equitable future.

If you are a Southwestern College alum, you too can inspire

and empower through your story, your actions, and your

contributions. Reach out to join in lifting up the next

generation of Southwestern College students please visit

www.swccd.edu/swc-community/swc-foundation/alumni/

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 25


Ribbon Cutting

SD Auto

Museum

Library

The San Diego

Automotive

Museum recently

opened its new

library housing a

collection of 45,000 books,

magazines and manuals

making it the largest library

of its kind on the West

Coast. The Berg Family Trust

Library has a collection of

automobile books, magazines

and hard-cover repair

manuals dating back to 1901.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony

included members of the

Berg family, who donated the majority of the

funding for the library, which also includes

the Skeets Dunn Research Center.

David Gatley, Alan Peltier and Lenny Leszczynski

Gordon Schenk, Mary Heon, Lynne and Steve Wheeler

Gregg Scott and Cheryl Cloutier

West Reese and Tammi Barnhart-Reese

26 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Lori and Karlene Keller



Ribbon Cutting

Recientemente, el Museo del

Automóvil de San Diego

abrió las puertas de su nueva

biblioteca donde se alberga

una colección de 45,000 libros,

revistas y manuales, convirtiéndola en

la mayor colección de su tipo en la

costa oeste. El Berg Family Trust Library

es dueña de una colección de libros,

revistas y manuales de reparación de

automóviles que se remontan a 1901. y

con la presencia de esta familia, donantes

de la mayoría de los fondos destinados

a la biblioteca y al centro Skeets Dunn

de investigaciones, se llevó adelante la

ceremonia de inauguración.

Linda Howard, Sharon Dunn and Kathryn Gang

Antonio Covelli, Sharon Smith and Steve Hill

Barry Appelbaum and Terry Tilton

Jill, Jim and Jamison Berg

Elliot Grossman and Marc Chase

28 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Sonia Kim, Dorothea Laub and Reena Horowitz


THE ARC OF SAN DIEGO PRESENTS

GALA CHAIR - LINDA KURTIN

SATURDAY,

APRIL 20, 2024

THE US GRANT HOTEL

5:30 p.m. Cocktail Reception

7:00 p.m. Dinner, Dancing, & Entertainment

Black Tie Optional

Featuring Wayne Foster Music and Entertainment

MC Mark Mathis, Meteorologist, KUSI TV

BENEFITING CHILDREN AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES

AT THE ARC OF SAN DIEGO

For tickets or information visit www.arc-sd.com/gala

or call (619) 795-4186


Community

College Friends Turned

Philanthropic Behemoths

Jacobsen and Kilkenny at Lucky Duck

Foundation’s 2023 Showcase Soiree

Insurance magnate Pat Kilkenny and professional

golfer Peter Jacobsen’s friendship started like

many others. They were fraternity brothers at the

University of Oregon, eager to find their places

in the world and make an impact. But that is

where the normalcy ends. They both achieved in

making an impact to such an extent that decades

later they each have major athletic facilities at their

alma mater named after them: “Kilkenny Floor,”

Oregon’s iconic basketball court; “PK Park,” Oregon’s

world class baseball stadium; and “The Peter and Jan

Jacobsen Oregon Golf Teaching Facility,” Oregon’s

brand-new state of the art golf facility.

As one would expect, these honors followed many

decades of collectively donating tens of millions of

dollars to charitable causes.

It started when Jacobsen serendipitously teed up

Kilkenny to make his first philanthropic gift at the

Masters. Kilkenny was at Augusta to watch Jacobsen

compete for a green jacket, and was pleasantly

surprised to see Don Monson, Oregon’s head

men’s basketball coach, was also there. Kilkenny

introduced himself and they became fast friends.

When Kilkenny asked how he could support

Monson’s basketball program, Monson said they

needed video equipment, so Kilkenny gave what

for him at the time was significant: $5,000. “It

may not sound like much, but at that point in my

career, it was a stretch. I was just starting to build

my business which as you can imagine had endless

challenges, but it just felt like the right thing to do.”

Kilkenny’s philanthropic passion to make an impact

30 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


was ignited. And like the Masters, his generosity

has become a tradition unlike any other. He and his

wife Stephanie are co-founders of the Lucky Duck

Foundation, a nonprofit focused on preventing and

alleviating the suffering of homelessness throughout

San Diego County,

for which they match

all donations up

to $1.5 million per

year. The foundation

has purchased and

installed industrial tent

structures that shelter

450 individuals nightly;

funded more than 20

different employment

and job training

programs benefiting

more than 1,000

individuals; distributed

more than 12,000 winter

coats that transform into

sleeping bags; created a

public grading system

to evaluate politician’s

effectiveness in reducing

homelessness; and much

more. The Kilkenny’s chose

the name “Lucky Duck

Foundation” as a nod to

Kilkenny’s Irish heritage

and the Oregon Ducks.

“I have been

extraordinarily blessed

in my lifetime and aiding

those in need brings

Stephanie and me great joy and fulfillment. Inviting

our friends and fellow San Diegans to do the same is

something we look forward to every year.”

NBA icon Bill Walton, Jacobsen,

Kilkenny and ESPN’s Neil Everett

And the individual who regularly serves as the Lucky

Duck Foundation’s emcee at their fundraising events?

None other than Jacobsen, who went on to win 18

professional golf tournaments, was selected to two

Ryder Cup teams, and is a regular contributor on

the Golf Channel and NBC for major golf events.

Additionally, Jacobsen’s namesake sports marketing

and event management company has produced more

than 250 events and contributed more than $40

million to nonprofits. Jacobsen was selected as the

2013 Payne Stewart Award winner, which recognizes

the professional golfer who exemplifies character,

sportsmanship, charity, and the ability to make a

positive difference in

the lives of others.

Pat Kilkenny and Peter Jacobsen interviewed

at Lucky Duck Foundation’s Swing & Soiree

“Peter is off the charts.

I am not convinced

the public understands

the magnitude of

the Payne Stewart

Award. And the fact

he jumps on a plane

from Florida to help us

raise critically needed

funds, often heading

home the very next

day, is just one glimpse

into his amazing loyalty

and generosity,” shared

Kilkenny.

Lucky Duck Foundation’s

mantra, “share your luck,”

is meant to encourage

those who have had good

luck in their lives to share

their luck with those in

need. Their next event

is the Spring Swing golf

tournament fundraiser

on April 29 at the Rancho

Santa Fe Golf Club.

“I have been to a lot of

charity golf tournaments and gala fundraisers,”

Jacobsen added. “I am not saying this because they

are my close friends, I am saying this because it is

the truth: Pat and Stephanie’s event is one of, if not

the best event. It is fun, well run, and impactful. I

highly encourage anyone who has not participated

to give it a shot.”

A lifelong friendship predicated on sharing their luck

every year to aid those in need. A friendship, and

tradition, unlike any other.

www.luckyduckfoundation.org

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 31


Nostalgia

Ken Kramer’s

About San Diego

If you are among the thousands of San Diegans for

whom Ken Kramer’s About San Diego is must-see

TV on Thursday nights, this springtime promises

fresh delights. The show has a developed a

passionate following going back to its commercial

radio origins in the 1980s when Ken spun local

history and human-interest stories during

morning and afternoon drive time shows on KSDO

alongside broadcast legends like Ernie Myers and

sportscaster Ron Reina.

About San Diego’s television life began as a volunteer

effort in 1980 when Ken organized a group of

community history enthusiasts using borrowed

equipment to cobble together some half hour KPBS

broadcasts featuring odd and little-known facts about

our county.

After a dozen years as a news reporter and About San

Diego storyteller at NBC7, the program came back to

KPBS for good in 2010 and has since become one of

the station’s most popular offerings.

After his retirement from regular production of the

KPBS Television series Ken Kramer’s About San

Diego a few years ago, Ken was urged by station

management to put together some occasional new

episodes. So, fast forward to now! beginning in April

and continuing each month through the summer, Ken

and his producer Suzanne Bartole will offer previously

unseen stories about the people and history of the

area we call home. KPBS Passport members will get a

sneak preview of each new episode on the First of the

Month, with a television broadcast debut to follow on

the second Thursday of each month in the show’s usual

8:00 PM time slot.

The first new episode will be seen by KPBS-TV viewers in

San Diego and Imperial Counties on Thursday April 11

and features rare film footage of historic efforts by

San Diego entrepreneurs who dreamed of building

an automobile that could fly. We are introduced to

Carmen Castaneda, one of the few remaining Rosie

The Riveter women who worked in San Diego’s defense

industry during World War 2, Historian Seth Mallios

makes his show debut with a story behind a barely

noticed military memorial on the San Diego State

University campus, and a 70-year perspective on the

Aztecs amazing run to basketball’s Final Four.

32 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


Si usted se encuentra entre las miles de

personas de San Diego para las cuales el

programa de TV Ken Kramer´s About

San Diego era algo fijo a ver los jueves por

la noche, esta primavera promete traer

nuevas sorpresas. A partir de un programa

de radio matinal y vespertino iniciado

en los ´80 que nos acompañaba en los horarios de ir al

trabajo, donde Ken, junto a Ernie Myers, leyenda de

la radio y el periodista deportivo Ron Reina, contaban

hechos históricos locales entretejidos con interesantes

eventos sobre coloridos personajes, este programa fue

creciendo hasta convertirse en un icono televisivo.

About San Diego en su versión televisiva comenzó en

1980 cuando Ken reunió a un grupo de entusiastas de la

historia de nuestra comunidad, pidió prestado el equipo

y salió al aire media hora en KPBS, contando pocos

conocidos datos sobre nuestro condado.

Luego de más de una docena de años como periodista

de noticias y relator de About San Diego en NBC7, en el

2010 el programa volvió para quedarse a KPBS y desde

ese momento se convirtió en una de las propuestas más

populares del canal de TV.

Ken with show producer Suzanne

Bartole in the KPBS studio

A San Diego effort by local aerospace

engineers resulted in this flying car in the

late 1940s seen as it flew over Mission Valley

Un par de años luego de que retiraran de la

producción la serie televisiva de KPBS Ken

Kramer’s About San Diego, la gerencia del canal

le pidió realizar algunos episodios esporádicos,

por lo que a partir de abril y durante cada mes

del verano, Ken junto a su productora, Suzanne

Bartolome, nos van a deleitar con historias inéditas

sobre personas y lugares históricos de la zona a la

cual llamamos nuestro hogar. Los miembros con

pasaporte de KPBS van a poder ver un adelanto de

cada episodio en First of the Month, con el debut

televisivo en cada segundo martes de cada mes en

su horario habitual de las 8:00 PM.

El primer episodio que saldrá al aire de KPBS por

TV en los condados de San Diego e Imperial será

el 11 de abril y presentará partes de filmaciones

históricas sobre emprendedores de San Diego

que soñaban con construir un automóvil que

pudiera volar. Carmen Castaneda, una de las

mujeres de Rosie The Riveter, y trabajadora en la

industria de la defensa durante la Segunda Guerra

Mundial, será parte de esta atrapante historia, y

el historiador Seth Mallios hará su debut en el

programa con la historia apenas conocida detrás

del monumento a la memoria de los militares

perteneciente al campus de la Universidad de San

Diego, sumando luego a una perspectiva de 70

años desde que los Aztecas realizarán su increíble

carrera en el basquetbol hacia la Final Four.

www.kpbs.org

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 33


Luncheon

Tea by

the Sea

Honorary Chairs Maureen

King, Angel Kleinbub, and

Barbara Menard hosted

Tea by the Sea to raise

and support funds for

St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center.

Together, along with the community

they raised funds for Sophie’s

Gallery. Every dollar raised goes

directly back into their art program,

allowing students to experiment

through a variety of media, such as

jewelry-making, painting, fabric arts,

and more under the guidance of

their committed gallery staff.

Barbara Finn-Pressley

and Kathryn Murphy

Catherine Page and

Molly Thornton

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DIANNA IPPOLITO

Carla Grosmann

and Alan Cohen

Judy Burer and

Dee Ammon

Rhonda James, Marchelle

Edwards and Virginia Bayer

Jessie Hogue, Linda

Toussaimp and Jane Moore

Terrell Kamahi, Sondra Rogers, Isaac

Kamahi, Annie Kamahi and Katie Argeres

34 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024



Luncheon

Con Mauren King, Angel

Kleinbub y Barbara

Menard como anfitrionas

honorarias se llevó

adelante el Tea by the

Sea para recaudar fondos destinados

al St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center. Lo

logrado por el evento se destinó a la

Sophie’s Gallery y sus programas de

arte que permiten a los estudiantes

experimentar a través de diversos

medios como la joyería, la pintura,

el diseño de telas y mucho más

dirigidos por el comprometido

equipo de la galería.

Connie Mistretta, Linda

Rahn and Royce Campbell

Crystal Bejar

and Karen Isbell

Beth Blue, Laura Underwood

and Stephanie Smith

Bobbi Witte and

Rory Goldberg

Kay Krueger and

Cathy March

Pam Healy and

Megan Bresee

Becky Mrachek and

Nancy Howard

36 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


Carol Harlow and

Anne Marie Kaukonen

Julie and Jillian Hodgetts

with Anna Gerhart

Maureen King with

Becky and Cali Williams

Cheri Eckis and

Cori Grunow

Amber and

Susan Bobbitt

Gloria Melville and

Angel Kleinbub

Angelina Sanchez

and Julie Hodgetts

Kim Lober and

Molly Nocon

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 37


Reception

Donor

Appreciation

Girl Scouts San Diego

hosted its Donor

Appreciation Reception

for more than 50 guests

at a private home in La

Jolla. The annual event celebrates

the generosity of loyal donors

whose ongoing commitment to

the mission of Girl Scouts San

Diego helps build girls of courage,

confidence, and character in San

Diego and Imperial counties.

Carol and John Crossman

with Debbie and Bob Feinberg

Mary Talle and

Kristin Wiggins

Emily and

David Rex

Cynthia and Dean Kronemyer

with Maggie Watkins

Lucy Jackson and

Suzanne Frontz

Cindy Goodman

and Amy Myers

38 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


An ECS Fundraising Gala

SATURDAY MAY 18, 2024

AT 5:30 PM

FINE DINING • LIVE MUSIC • AUCTIONS & MORE!

Please join us for a night of elegance and purpose.

Your participation directly supports our transformative

programs in homelessness relief, behavioral health,

substance use disorder treatment, and early childhood

education for San Diego residents.

SCAN ME!

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 39


Reception

Girls Scout San Diego

llevó adelante en una

residencia privada de

La Jolla su recepción

Donor Appreciation,

contando la presencia de más de

50 invitados. Este evento anual es

un homenaje a la generosidad de

fieles donantes, gracias a quienes se

logra continuar con la misión que

llevan adelante en los condados

de San Diego e Imperial, las Girls

Scouts de San Diego; el formar

jóvenes seguras de sí mismas,

con coraje y determinación para

enfrentar el futuro.

Monica Piepenkotter

and Natasha Bowman

Carol Dedrich with

Matt and Janice Kurth

Susan Cloutier, Connie

Schroeder and Erica Neumann

Evan and

Kim Kleber

Dawn Welch and

Barbara Kramer

40 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Tange Gavin and

Michelle Mullen

Coreen and

Kevin Petti


ANNUAL FUNDRAISER

MARCH 8, 2024

Please join us for an exceptional event at the Bahia Resort

to benefit our 200+ rescued animals!

We are honored to be joined by Lindsey Peña of ABC 10News

as our emcee for the evening.

Hosted Cocktail Reception • 3-Course Dinner

Live and Silent Auctions • Dancing

BAHIA RESORT HOTEL

998 W Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA 92109

$175 per ticket • Please inquire for VIP opportunities

To purchase tickets, scan below or call 619-320-4942

SanctuaryAndFarm.org

ChildrensNatureRetreat.org


Health

Alzheimer’s Association

San Diego & Imperial Chapter

BRILLIANCE GALA

Join the

Alzheimer’s

Association

May 3 rd at the

Alila Marea

Beach Resort

in Encinitas

for the Alzheimer’s

Association San

Diego & Imperial

Chapter 2024

Brilliance Gala as

they celebrate the

work being done, and

recognize those who

have been a part of

the fight.

This year, the

Alzheimer’s

Association will

recognize the impact

of local research

by shining a light

on companies on

the forefront of

developing

treatments, which for

the first time ever,

address the underlying biology of Alzheimer’s disease

rather than just symptoms.

One of those companies, Eisai, will also be

recognized as the 2024 Alzheimer’s Association’s

“Visionary Award” recipient. This award is presented

to an individual, company or organization with

remarkable foresight and dedication to improve

the lives of those with dementia, their caregivers

and loved ones. Eisai’s

Alzheimer’s treatment

drug, LEQEMBI was

selected by Time

Magazine as one of

the Best Inventions of

2023 in the Medical

category. LEQEMBI

is the first and only

approved treatment

for patients with mild

cognitive impairment or

mild dementia stage of

Alzheimer’s disease.

La Jollan Jayne Slade

will be recognized

as 2024 Alzheimer’s

Association Hope Award

honoree. Jayne knows

firsthand what it is like

to lose a loved one to

Alzheimer’s, as she was

a constant companion

and caregiver to her

husband Hank Slade

Co Chair Travis Chrisman throughout his battle.

Hank and Jayne were

active participants in

the Alzheimer’s community and worked to educate

and promote awareness as Hank battled the disease.

Jayne has continued her involvement, currently cofacilitating

a local caregivers group.

Past Brilliance Gala honorees include Best Buy Health,

Karen Wilder, Dr. Michael Rafii, AMN/Susan and Scott

Salka, Dr. David Crean, and Dr. Jeffrey Cummings.

42 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


The Alzheimer’s Association is making progress at

an unimaginable rate, but there is still so much to

do. And that work starts with your support. The

Brilliance Gala offers more than an exceptional

evening of celebration featuring cocktails, dinner,

live and silent auction, live entertainment, special

guests and more, but also an opportunity to change

the future: An opportunity to create a world without

Alzheimer’s and all other dementia.

Funds raised at the Brilliance Gala fund local

programs and services as well as research to find

treatments and a cure. The Association is currently

funding more than $5 million in active research

targeting Alzheimer’s disease across institutions

right here in San Diego, including UC San Diego,

the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, the

University of Southern California’s Alzheimer’s

Therapeutic Research Institute and more. Overall,

the Alzheimer’s Association has funded more than

$14 million in local research.

Co Chair Rantell Ramirez

The Brilliance Gala is an

opportunity to create a world

without Alzheimer’s and all

other dementia.

The 2024 Brilliance Gala is co-chaired by a trio of

San Diegans committed to changing the Alzheimer’s

narrative: Paula Lemkuil, Rantell Ramirez, and

Travis Chrisman. All three have experience with the

disease, with both Paula and Travis losing a parent to

Alzheimer’s. Edward Cox is the 2024 Brilliance Gala

Honorary Chair. Edward served as the 2022 and 2023

Alzheimer’s Association Gala chair.

There has never been a more important time in the

fight to end Alzheimer’s than right now. This urgency is

the driving factor behind the 2024 Brilliance Gala.

Co Chair Paula Lemkuil

brilliance.givesmart.com

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 43


Benefit

The

Silver

Tea

St. Germaine Children’s Charity

celebrated their annual

tradition benefiting children

and youth in San Diego.

Guests enjoyed a delicious

afternoon of tea, musicians and petit

fours all while mingling and bidding

on silent auction items. St. Germaine

is committed to stopping child abuse

and improving the lives of abused

and neglected children in San Diego

County. The Silver Tea raises critical

funds each year that is then awarded

to worthy organizations who have

proven success in addressing the needs

of children suffering from trauma.

Karen Benito and

Dawn Inglish

Gloria McCoy and

Place Tegland

Rebecca Rader

and Jessica Munoz

Chelsea Sessa

and Kristi Pfister

Dagmar Smek

and Julie Bubnack

44 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Jenny Mcgowan

and Elaine Murphy


Randi Hegeler, Kristi

Pieper and Sherry Macelli

Kim Alessio

and Lisa Kay

Patti Orsatti, Barbara

Giammona and Christina Orsatti

Please join us at our

50th Annual Gala, where we will be

celebrating 50 years of past honorees!

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 45


Benefit

St. Germaine Children’s Charity

celebró su evento a beneficio

de los niños y jóvenes de San

Diego con una tarde deliciosa de

té, música y petit fours mientras

socializaban y disfrutaban subastas

silenciosas. St. Germaine se dedica a

luchar contra el abuso infantil y busca

mejorar las vidas de sus víctimas en el

condado de San Diego. Cada año, el

Silver Tea recauda esenciales fondos que

luego son destinados a organizaciones

que hayan demostrado su valía en

la lucha contra el abuso infantil y la

contención de las víctimas.

Anna Mar, Fiona Meier,

Micki Olin and Taylor Won

Vanessa Praggastis, Jessica

Shehav and Courtney Cindrich

Shannon Turner

and Patricia Clark

Joyce Dostart, Gail

Donahue and Jane Mckahan

Mark Lagace

and Greg Libby

Elizabeth Fitzsimmons

and Tim Whipple

46 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 47


Benefit

Suzie Colby, Jeanne Larson, Louarn

Sorkin and Judy Thompson

Jill Peters, Julie Garrie

and Rowena Treitler

Pauline Condrick

and Teresa Stivers

Maggie Watkins

and Janice Farnow

Guylyn Cummins

and Lisa Casey

Stacey Bonham and

Claudia Johnson

48 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Meghan Burton and

Kaitlin Arduino

Arlene Esgate, Tonya

Torosian and Kathryn Vaughn


Ana Boesky, Denisia

Chatfield and Kasia Navarro

Ashley Nagashina

and Katie Oliver

Kathryn Stephens

and Wendy Segall

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 49


SWA Community

Chicano Federation

Southwest Airlines

is invested in

leadership and

development by empowering people and

strengthening communities. When we come

together, communities thrive and flourish and in

San Diego. We are proud to help create impactful

changes through our partnership with Chicano

Federation who is providing opportunities for all

San Diegans in need. As San Diego faced rainstorms

causing great damage

affecting many families in

the communities, Chicano

Federation stepped up and helped provide relief

and support ensuring the well-being

of the impacted communities.

Kayla Valencia

Community Outreach

Regional Manager

Southwest Airlines

25 units and multiple vehicles

were damaged by the flood

In January, many neighbors

and familia lost their homes,

businesses, vehicles, and

belongings due to San Diego’s

unprecedented storms.

The Chicano Federation

experienced the devastation

firsthand, as floodwater rose to

4 feet in one of its affordable

housing complexes for families;

25 units were destroyed and

over 60 residents, as young as 10

days old, were displaced. Many

residents’ damaged vehicles

prevented parents from going to

work and children from attending

school; those who work for Lyft or

Uber now have their livelihoods

at risk without vehicles. Because

the Chicano Federation’s priority

is keeping these families safe and

cared for, they were immediately

placed in hotels and received

warm meals and basic necessities.

50 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


Volunteers and partners showed up to support

affected families and helped with cleanup efforts

Paco and his family are among the residents supported by

the Chicano Federation. Paco’s story began in the Republic of

the Congo, enjoying a peaceful upbringing until the outbreak

of war. His family sought refuge in Uganda for four years

before finding permanent residence in San Diego, moving

into the Chicano Federation’s Delta Street Apartments in

Southcrest. Paco’s growing family of six has called Delta

Street Apartments “home” for 11 years; however, their lives

were abruptly disrupted by the recent floods.

Despite this being Paco’s third encounter with catastrophic

flooding that requires a fresh start, he considers himself very

fortunate. Paco’s mother is his upstairs neighbor and has

been cooking warm, nourishing meals for him, his family,

and all of the residents affected by January’s storm. Grateful

for the Chicano Federation for providing housing stability,

Paco’s family is eager to return to Delta Street Apartments as

quickly as possible so they can start to rebuild their lives.

Thanks to dedicated volunteers, the Chicano Federation

cleaned out the 25 affected units - disposing of furniture,

trash, and debris - to start reconstruction. The projected

timeline before families can return to their homes is up to

three months. During these hard times, supporters have

stepped up with donations for lodging, meals, transportation,

and basic needs for these individuals and families.

Nevertheless, the need for support and compassion persists

as Chicano Federation provides residents with culturally

responsive, trauma-informed support in navigating insurance

damage claims, legal assistance, and other critical resources.

Paco standing in what

used to be his kitchen

Since 1969, the Chicano Federation of

San Diego County has been advancing

civil rights, civic participation, and social

mobility for historically marginalized

communities. The organization serves

clients regardless of race, ethnicity,

religion, gender, age, sexual orientation,

and/or immigration status, prioritizing

immigrants, refugees, and low-income,

high-potential communities. Because of

Chicano Federation’s commitment to

social justice, it was recognized as the

“2023 Outstanding Organization for

Diversity & Inclusion” at San Diego’s

51st annual National Philanthropy Day.

Southwest is the official airline of the

Chicano Federation, providing ongoing

support to individuals and families.

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 51


Celebration

SNAP

San Diego

SNAP San Diego hosted a hard hat

party to have a peek into their first

stationary clinic project in El Cajon!

SNAP San Diego will be offering

the first affordable high-volume

non-profit spay clinic for East County. SNAP

provides spay/neuter services for financially

challenged pet owners throughout San Diego

County. Over 70,000 dogs, cats, and rabbits

have been fixed on SNAP’s Neuter Scooters

– decreasing pet overpopulation in our

region and saving countless animal lives!

Carolyn Darrow, Sandy

Boss and Leslie Davies

Laurie Michaels with

Benny and Pam Brand

Sally Costello and

Dorell Sackett

Helen Giss and

John Hammond

52 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Debbi and

Tom Oberts

Lisa Getz and

Jane Crecelius

SNAP San Diego llevó

adelante su fiesta de

cascos con motivo de

su primer proyecto de

clínica estable ubicada

en el Cajón. SNAP San Diego

estará ofreciendo la primera

clínica sin fines de lucro donde

brindarán castraciones asequibles

en el East County. SNAP realiza

servicios de castración a aquellos

dueños de mascotas que

enfrentan dificultades financieras.

Más de 70,000 perros, gatos

y conejos han pasado por los

Scooters de Castraciones de

SNAP, ¡logrando reducir la

sobrepoblación de mascotas

de nuestra región y salvando

incalculables vidas animales!


Gerry Boss with

Kristina Hancok

Martin and Nicole Donnelly

with Matthew Hom

Barbara Cavanaugh

and Laura Oliver

Peggy Buffo and

Paul Crecelius

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 53


Community

B

alboa Park, often

called the crown

jewel and heart

of San Diego, has

held a special place

in our community

for generations.

Now, at a critical

juncture, we stand

at the crossroads

of determining

the extent of our

commitment to

preserving the

cultural significance

of the park,

recognizing it not

only as a cherished

gem but also as a vital

economic, health,

and environmental

engine propelling our

region forward.

The cultural

significance of Balboa Park is indisputable, with worldrenowned

museums, theaters, the zoo, architectural

heritage, and expansive open spaces catering to residents

and visitors. Beyond this well-celebrated cultural

tapestry lies equally significant economic, health, and

environmental benefits. We see the impacts through

54 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Balboa Park:

Navigating Progress

Jim Waring

tourism and visitor

spending, events

and festivals,

local businesses

in surrounding

neighborhoods, job

creation within the

park’s operational

and maintenance

sectors, real estate

ripple effects, and the

flow of public and

private investments

into the park. Like all

parks, Balboa Park

plays a multifaceted

role in the health of

our communities

by providing

recreational and open

space, promoting

mental well-being,

and fostering social

connections. It is

well-understood

that parks also play

a critical role in our

efforts to combat

climate change.

For all these reasons,

the Burnham Center

for Community

Advancement (BCCA) made the park one of its

earliest priorities and released a community report in

November 2022, examining long-standing challenges in

funding and governance. BCCA’s involvement revealed

an existing and often underappreciated collective will

among stakeholders to forge a better future for the park.


As BCCA gains momentum with Jim

Waring at the helm of its Balboa Park

efforts, significant developments await the

park. The City of San Diego’s prioritization

research, set to release this year, aims to

identify the park’s needs, guiding strategic

decision-making aligned with community

priorities. The City of San Diego has also

made significant investments and secured

$30 million in federal and state funding to

make much-needed mobility, restoration,

safety and security enhancements, and

improved governance, such as the recently

announced special permit issued to Forever

Balboa Park to fast-track improvements.

Forever Balboa Park is finalizing its

Strategic Plan, providing a clear roadmap

for collaborative efforts with the city to

generate revenue and ensure sustained

growth. Simultaneously, the Balboa

Park Cultural Partnership is shaping

its Experience Plan, which focuses

on elevating visitor experiences and

maintaining the park as a vibrant hub for

cultural and recreational activities.

Creative solutions, drawing inspiration from parks

worldwide, indicate a need for a new framework that

transcends traditional norms and engages everyone in

a collaborative effort.

Tad Seth Parzen and Malin Burnham

As we eagerly await these milestones, it is

evident that Balboa Park is on the cusp of

transformative change. The collaborative

efforts of many over numerous years have

set the stage for a united effort to address

significant challenges, ensuring the park’s

vitality for future generations and marking

the next chapter in its rich history.

www.burnhamcenter.org

In recognition of their initial efforts, BCCA was

recently awarded a grant from The Conrad Prebys

Foundation, enabling the hiring of Jim Waring, a

seasoned leader well-regarded for his efforts with

Cleantech San Diego and who served as Deputy

Chief Operating Officer for Land Use and Economic

Development at the City of San Diego. The funding

will also allow BCCA to engage the broader community

and create regular reporting on progress being made.

BCCA Balboa Park Working Group

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 55


Entertainment

The Musical Odyssey

of NRG Music &

Productions

BY NICHOLE NAOUM

I

n the heart of NRG Music & Productions lies a tale

of love, creativity, and a deep commitment to making

a positive impact. Founded by Andy Salmonsen in

1984, the journey of this music and entertainment

powerhouse began in the early days of his romance

with his wife, Kymm Civette-Salmonsen, evolving into

a thriving venture that combines passion, talent, and a

strong sense of purpose.

The spark that ignited NRG’s inception came from a

transformative experience in Las Vegas, where Kymm

witnessed a show featuring a female lead singer and

dancers. This moment of creative inspiration fueled her

desire to carve out a unique niche in San Diego’s music

scene. The decision to introduce singers with a strong

dance background set NRG apart, creating a trendsetting

musical experience that quickly gained popularity.

As the years unfolded, NRG’s mission evolved

organically. From a successful band, they transitioned

into curating theme production shows for

philanthropic events. The turning point came when a

client requested a “Decades” theme show, setting the

stage for NRG’s involvement in fundraising events.

The mission was clear - to enhance the overall event

experience, weaving entertainment seamlessly into the

fabric of each unique occasion.

56 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


The essence of NRG’s mission lies in flexibility,

generosity, and the dedication to being great partners

to their clients. Their growth reflects a commitment

to answering the call of any event with heart, creating

lasting relationships that extend beyond business. Music,

for them, is not just a profession but a way of life - a

medium

to forge

connections

and bring

joy to their

clients.

At the heart

of NRG’s

approach is

a desire to

ensure that

guests not

only have a

great time at

fundraising

events

but also

leave with

a deeper

connection

to the

causes being

supported.

Through

customized

theme shows,

integrating

music, video,

choreography,

and unique

costuming,

NRG creates

memorable

experiences

that resonate

with the event’s purpose. The emotional connection

fostered on the dance floor aligns with the cause, leaving

a lasting impact on attendees.

The significance of NRG’s contributions is perhaps

best exemplified by a poignant moment during one of

their performances. A long-standing client expressed

gratitude for 21 years of entertainment, with tears of

joy and appreciation. This heartfelt acknowledgment,

coupled with the involvement of their own children in

the performances, highlights the profound impact NRG

has had over

the years.

What Andy

and Kymm

cherish

most about

their roles at

NRG is the

opportunity

to create new

show concepts

tailored to

their clients’

needs. The joy

of contributing

to the creative

process,

witnessing

visions come to

life, and sharing

those moments

with clients is

immeasurable.

Performing on

stage as a family,

from high school

sweethearts to

their children

joining in,

adds a layer of

fulfillment that

transcends the

professional

realm.

NRG Music & Productions is not just about

entertainment – it is a celebration of love, creativity, and

a shared commitment to making a positive difference in

the world.

www.nrgmusicandproductions.com

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 57


Recognition

San Diego

Impact

President and CEO of Wheelhouse Credit

Union Lisa Paul-Hill was the Grand

Marshall at the 47th Annual Harley E.

Knox Middle School’s Dr. Martin Luther

King, Jr. March. The honor served to thank

Lisa and Wheelhouse Credit Union for making

a positive impact in the community. The event

featured performances and awards, including a

reading of Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream Speech.”

Lt. Colonel Mapilisan, Sgt.

Keohane Ret. and Lt. Aguilar

Sharon Whitehurst-Payne,

Lamont Jackson and Shana Hazan

Jamie Estrada and

Delia Knobolch

Manix Phayvanh, Erin

Roberts and Steve Peterson

58 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Lisa Paul-Hill es la CEO y presidente

de Wheelhouse Credit Union y fue

la Grand Marshal durante la 47°

marcha anual Dr. Martin Luther King

Jr. de la Escuela Media Harley E. Knox

y la comunidad está muy agradecida, tanto

a ella como a Wheelhouse Credit Union

por su presencia. Durante el evento hubo

entrega de premios y presentaciones entre

las cuales estuvo la lectura de “I Have a

Dream Speech” del Dr. King.


Michelle Irwin and

Steven Dorsey

Major Timothy Grimes Ret. and

Sgt. First Class Michael Stack

Heather Potter

and Lisa Paul-Hill

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 59


Reception

BLCI

Open

House

Matthew Mederios

and Erin Miserlis

Barrio Logan College

Institute believes that

higher education

empowers people to

make positive changes in

their lives and their communities.

To help further their mission they

hosted an Open House in El

Cajon to highlight the hard work

and dedication of the students.

BLCI is dedicated to building a

path for the future generation of

first-generation leaders.

Amy Potris, Yasmin

Davidson and Beatriz Velez

Shezzid Juarez, Aurelia

Aguilar and William Sajche

Tom Galstian and

Nancy Cortez

Omar Garcia, Giovanni Alquastoma,

Adil Al Mahdawi and Bobby Morales

Samar Alyas, John Kasawa,

Amy Potris and Besma Coda

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DIANNA IPPOLITO

60 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Merna Alyas, Jasmine

Barka and Sara Boquin

Barrio Logan College Institute cree que

la educación superior empodera a las

personas a lograr cambios positivos en

sus vidas y en sus comunidades, es por

ello que llevaron adelante su día de

Puertas Abiertas en El Cajón, donde dar una

muestra del tremendo esfuerzo que realizan

con sus estudiantes. BLCI se dedica a construir

caminos para los futuros líderes provenientes

de primeras generaciones de universitarios.


Michelle Moffitt

and Kathy Fritch

Felipe Razo and

Jesus Pacheco

Ramah Awad

and Besma Coda

Janet Uribe, Fian Luna, Emma

Norton and Ashley Garcia

Samuel Nunez, Fabiola Chavez,

Keri Moutaw and Tim Womack

Have you, your business or organization

appeared in GB Magazine?

Preserve your article and make a great impression!

• Photo Prints

• Article Reprints

• Display Plaques

Contact us to place an order

(619) 260-8353 | WWW.GBSAN.COM | INFO@GBSAN.COM

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MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 61


Ribbon Cutting

San Diego Automotive Museum

LIBRARY GRAND OPENING

Ribbon Cutting

The San Diego Automotive Museum held

a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially

open the Berg Family Trust Library

featuring the Skeets Dunn Research

Lab. A vision nearly four years in the

making, it marks the first time the

Automotive Library has undergone a

significant overhaul since the Museum opened in 1988.

Jim and Jill Berg, Sharon Dunn, and Museum CEO

Lenny Leszczynski among many guests and supporters

attended the event, including a private morning

reception before the Library was opened to the public.

The Library’s renovation was made possible by a

generous gift from the Jim and Jill Berg of the Berg

Family Trust. Thanks to an additional contribution

by the Dunn Family, the Skeets Dunn Research Lab

provides scholars and students easy access to the

publications they need.

Sharon Dunn generously donated her late husband

Skeet’s collection of Ferrari books and publications,

some of which are rare or collectors’ editions.

Additionally, researchers who cannot visit the Berg

Family Library in person can access parts of the Skeets

Dunn Research Lab and collection digitally.

Roesling Nakamura Terada Architects designed the

modern facility, while Barnhart-Reese Construction

Company oversaw the Berg Family Library remodel,

construction, and the building of the Skeets Research

Center. A digital conception inspired by the San Diego

62 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


unites the entire

collection into

one location,

with the

capacity to

increase the

collection by

25%.

Berg Family Trust Library

Automotive Museum’s vision led to remodeling this

3,000-square-foot space while preserving the building’s

historic infrastructure.

Additionally, Mr. and Mrs. Douglas and Nancy

Barnhart underwrote the naming of the Museum’s gift

shop, which recently received new flooring, thanks to

the generous help of Metro Flooring. Barnhart-Reese

has been committed to supporting the Museum for the

past three years.

The Library is

a component of

the Museum’s

Capital

Campaign,

aimed at

expanding the

current facility

to become the

automotive hub

of Southern

California,

occupying a spacious 56,000-square-foot area. The

Museum’s interior enhancements will include an enlarged

exhibition floor space, allowing for more interactive

displays, as well as a stunning event space on the second

floor, which will incorporate both indoor and outdoor

spaces. The Capital Campaign provides opportunities to

name various areas. For more information of naming,

please visit www.sdautomuseum.org.

The Museum’s collection

contains manufacturer

publications on specs and

components of automobiles

dating back over 100

years, auto racing, and

the histories of motor

companies, to name a few.

The extensive automotiverelated

publications include

over 4,000 books, nearly

40,000 magazines, and

over 3,000 repair manuals.

Before the renovation, the

collection occupied two

rooms: the Library and a

closet. This refurbishment

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 63


Gala

World of

Wonders

The “World of Wonders”

themed Opera Ball was

chaired by Clarice Perkins

with Honorary Chairs Marina

Baroff and Robert Kaplan.

Guests enjoyed an evening of cocktails,

a special performance, dinner, and

dancing. All funds will fuel the San

Diego Opera’s impactful community

initiatives. The delightful evening was the

perfect balance of the arts, community,

camaraderie and a great party!

Barbara and

Joe Giammona

Joyce Gattas and

Sarah B. Marsh-Rebelo

John and Karen Hayes, Gloria

Bader and David Archibald

Phyllis Harris, Ron Leonardi

and Armi Williams

Bill and Clarice

Perkins

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DIANNA IPPOLITO

64 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


David Bennett with

Elsian and Joe Contreras

Jeannie Posner with Brett

and Amanda Lynn Macleod

The

Athenaeum

Music & Arts

Library

presents

the 1930s!

SILENT

DELICACIES &

DANCING & LIVE

AUCTION ◊ COCKTAILS ◊ BIG BAND MUSIC

Friday, may 3, 2024

VIP Hour 5:30 PM ◊ Main Event 6:30 PM

TICKETS:

◊ VIP

$1,000

◊ GENERAL

$250

The

Talk of the Town

old hollywood

Annual Benefit Celebration

LJATHENAEUM.ORG/TOTT ◊ (858) 454-5872 ◊ 1008 WALL STREET ◊ LA JOLLA, CA 92037

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 65


Gala

El baile tematico “World of

Wonders”, organizado por

la Ópera de San Diego,

contó con Clarice Perkins

como anfitriona junto a

Marina Baroff y Robert Kaplan como

anfitriones honorarios. Los invitados

disfrutaron de una velada con

cócteles, una presentación especial,

cena y baile, logrando un perfecto

equilibrio entre el arte, el sentido

comunitario y la camaradería. Los

fondos recaudados se destinaron a los

emprendimientos comunitarios de la

Ópera de San Diego.

Lori, William and Alexis

Wright with Alex Stenger

Carol Lazier, Linda Spuck

and Jeffrey Jordan

Laura Applegate

and Rick Campione

Martha and

Edward Dennis

Johan and

Sevil Brahme

Rockette Ewell and

Joleen Guckian

66 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


Chris Eddy, Charissa

Noble and Jay Jeffcoat

Rachel Peniche

and Kevin Lomax

Tom and Nicki Liscum

with Virginia Jensen

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 67


Gala

Marina Baroff, Robert Kaplan

with Matt and Tanya Hoffmann

Silvia and

Joseph Martinez

Dick Linsing and

Carline Kreder

Gloria and

Joe Sherman

Thomas Bui and

Robert Stevens

Eliana and

Veronica Leff

68 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Chris and

Kiffie Robbins


PLEASE JOIN US FOR

Sip to See

Springtime Tea

Janet and

Jonathan White

Join Vision of Children for

our Annual Spring Tea

featuring a full tea service,

boutique shopping, curated

silent auction, and

opportunity drawing.

Event Co-Chairs:

Kristi Pieper, Donna Vance,

and Vivian Hardage

LA JOLLA | MAY 8, 2024

11:00AM - 2:00PM

Private Club in La Jolla

For tickets and sponsorship

opportunities, visit

www.visionofchildren.org

Diana and Elie

Lombrozo

Kellye@visionofchildren.org

(858) 314-7915

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 69


Film

San Diego Latino Film Festival

Tatiana Huezo

The Echo, directed by the Mexican-

Salvadoran filmmaker Tatiana Huezo,

is one of the films selected for the

San Diego Latino Film Festival 2024

Spotlight Section, a program that gives

a Panorama of the best Latin American

films of 2023, offering boundary-pushing

propositions from exciting, diverse, award-winning, and

established cinematic voices from our continent. The

Echo premiered last year at the Encounters Section of

Berlinale-Berlin International Film Festival where the

director won the Award for Best Documentary Feature.

The film takes place in the remote village of El Echo that

exists outside of time, the children care for the sheep and

their elders. While the frost and drought punish the land,

they learn to understand death, illness and love with each

act, word and silence of their parents. A story about the

echo of what clings to the soul, about the certainty of

shelter provided by those around us, about rebellion and

vertigo in the face of life. About growing up.

The director Tatiana Huezo graduated from the Centro

de Capacitación Cinematográfica and has a Master’s

Degree in Creative Documentary from the Universitat

Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona. Her work has been widely

recognized around the world and acknowledged by the

Mexican Academy of Cinematographic Arts and Sciences

with eight Ariel awards; among them Best Documentary

and Best Director for Tempestad, which premiered in the

66th Berlinale Forum; as well as Best Film for Prayers

for the Stolen, which premiered in Un Certain Regard at

Cannes Film Festival, where it received a special mention

from the jury.

GB Magazine is proud to sponsor the San Diego Latino

Film Festival since 2010.

70 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


El Eco, dirigida por la productora

mexicana-salvadoreña Tatiana Huezo,

fue una de las películas seleccionada para

la sección Spotlight del Festival de Cine

Latino de San Diego 2024, un programa

que brinda una mirada sobre las mejores

películas latinas del 2023, con propuestas

que llevan a límite situaciones de manera diversa,

excitante, merecedoras de galardones y que establecen

nuevas voces dentro de la industria de nuestro

continente. El Eco tuvo su premier el año pasado en

el Festival Internacional Berlinale-Berlin en la sección

Encounters, donde la directora se llevó el premio al

Mejor Largometraje Documental.

La película

transcurre en el

remoto pueblo

atemporal de El Eco,

donde los niños

cuidan ovejas y a

sus mayores. Con la

sequía y las heladas

azotando la tierra,

ellos aprenden

y comprenden

la muerte, las

enfermedades, el

amor en cada acto,

palabra y silencio

de sus padres. Una historia sobre el eco de lo que

reverbera en el alma, sobre la certeza del refugio que

nos brindan los que nos rodean, sobre la rebelión y el

vértigo de enfrentar la vida, sobre el crecer y madurar.

La directora Tatiana Huezo se graduó del Centro

de Capacitación Cinematográfica y cuenta con una

maestría en Creatividad en Documentales otorgado

por la Universidad Pompeu de Barcelona. Su trabajo

ha sido ampliamente reconocido en el mundo y en

especial por la Academia Mexicana de Artes y Ciencias

Cinematográficas con ocho premios Ariel, entre los

cuales está el de Mejor Documental y Mejor directora

por La Tempestad, presentada en el 66° Foro del

Berlinale, premio a la Mejor Película por Oraciones

por los Robados que fuera presentada en Un Certain

Regard en el Festival de Cannes, donde recibió una

mención especial por parte de los jurados.

Desde 2010, la revista Giving Back, con mucho

orgullo es uno de los patrocinadores del Festival

Latino de San Diego.

www.sdlatinofilm.com

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 71


Brunch

Women’s

Philanthropy

Jewish Federation of San Diego presented

a Brunch Club event: If You Heard What

I Heard. The event explored the power

and necessity of sharing the stories

of survivors, both of the Holocaust,

and the Hamas terrorist attacks. The event also

featured the organization If You Heard What I

Heard, a nonprofit focused on filming the stories

of grandchildren of Holocaust survivors – the last

generation to ever hear survivor stories firsthand;

some of whom were in attendance.

Stephanie Steinberg

and Debbie Gerber

Allison Leeds, Carolyn Siegel

and Shayna Kaufmann

Silvana Christy

and Barbara Gitlin

Heidi Gantwerk with

Holocaust Survivors

Roxanne Katz, Shannah

Katz and Sara Tarson

Melissa Brill and

Martine Simble

Jewish Federation

de San Diego llevó

adelante el evento del

Brunch Club: If You

Heard What I Heard,

donde se explora la necesidad

y el poder en el compartir las

historias de sobrevivientes, tanto

del Holocausto como de los

ataques terroristas perpetrados

por Hamas. También se presentó

If You Heard What I Heard, una

organización sin fines de lucro

dedicada a filmar las historias

contadas por los nietos de los

sobrevivientes del Holocausto,

última generación en escuchar

de los protagonistas sus historias,

estando algunos de ellos

presentes en el evento.

72 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


SATURDAY, AUGUST 17, 2024

S A V E

Lisa Pearl, Sarah Schatz

and Debbie Lustigson

T H E

DATE

Illana Mauser and

Carolyn Siegel

Zameret Kleiman and

Barbara Giammona

at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies

This year’s guest artist will be announced

soon. Past events have featured stars

such as Jennifer Hudson, Josh Groban,

Idina Menzel, and Liza Minnelli.

Visit symphony.salk.edu for more information.

Carolina Demner, Shani

Rubinstein and Jaime Fox

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 73


Outreach

Judges’

Luncheon

Voices for Children’s

Annual Judges’ Luncheon

recognized judges, donors,

and community partners for

their extraordinary support

of the Court Appointed Special

Advocate (CASA) program. The

event also recognized the San Diego

Superior Court Juvenile Division

judges who oversee the dependency

cases involving the community’s

children in foster care.

Annie Chodorow, Sally Harvey,

Kristi Pfister and Holly Brown

Brody Zaugg, Kelly Floyd, Jacob

Goldschalg and Randy Finch

Suzy and

Bob Freund

Julie Union, Jeri

Mcinerney and Jenna Price

Judge Alexander Colero, Judge Nadia

Keilani and Judge Michael Pulos

74 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

El almuerzo anual de jueces

de Voices for Children es la

ocasión donde se realiza un

reconocimiento al extraordinario

apoyo de los jueces, donantes

y socios comunitarios al programa

especial CASA (Court Appointed Special

Advocate). También se destacó la labor

de los jueves de la División Juvenil de la

Corte Suprema de San Diego, quienes

supervisan los casos relacionados con los

niños en situación de guarda.


Tim Riley and

Jose Contreras

Jen Frietzel and

Lois Andrews

Terry Woods and

Theresa Nevarez

Jennifer Krotko, Scott

Finkbeiner and Beth Ploesch

Jessica Munoz, Amy

Eydsen and James Scoffin

Annette Bradbury

and Diane Berol

Lisa Morera

and Keri Riney

Jenny Mckenna and

Monique Rodriguez

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 75


Education

BLCI

ANNOUNCING $150,000 SCHOLARSHIP CHALLENGE MATCH

Robert and Molly Schulze

“We have been impressed with BLCI’s program and its success. We realize the

cost of education can be a deterrent for many of these students and we hope the

creation of an endowment for scholarships will be able to provide a consistent

source of funds and help remove that obstacle.” - Robert and Molly Schulze

In partnership with Robert and Molly Schulze

and San Diego Foundation, BLCI is pleased to

announce two new matching fund opportunities

for a total of $150,000 that are aimed at increasing

equity in education by assisting low-income, firstgeneration

students with financial support to ensure

academic persistence and success. BLCI partners

76 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

with San Diego Foundation

each year through their

Community Scholarships

Program, which is the largest

non-university scholarship provider in San Diego

County and responsible for awarding $4 million in

scholarships to over 1,000 students, including BLCI

alumni, last year. The existing partnership and San

Diego Foundations’ dedication to the community

made them a natural partner for these newly

established funds.


BLCI Graduating Class of 2023

Robert and Molly’s

involvement began with an

invitation to attend BLCI’s

annual event, Opportunity

for Impact and in Robert’s

words, “after that night we

were hooked.” The event is

hosted by BLCI students and

highlights their educational

goals and what they have

BLCI Elementary Studens

”Acknowledge your good

fortune, your hard work

and achievements to date,

and be willing to give back

when you have the time

and treasure to do so.”

learned in the program. Molly was struck by the confidence the students

exhibited and attributed it to the skills they learned at BLCI, “I believe that

BLCI instills and reinforces confidence. It was incredibly impressive. Both

of us believe in the power of education and realize that because of finances

it is unattainable for many. We feel extremely fortunate to be able to help

and we hope the challenge grant will encourage others to join us in this

effort to make higher education more easily attainable for others.”

Like BLCI students, Robert was the first in his family to graduate college and

his path to education was not an easy one. Robert’s first scholarship came in the

form of aid from the Catholic Church after his father died, leaving his mother

to raise four young boys all under the age of 10. His mother began working in

the church’s school cafeteria,

and the boys attended school

for free. Further assistance

enabled a spot at an all-boys

catholic military school

which was followed by

college funded through the

GI Bill for his service during

the Vietnam era. Robert

shares that his education

would not have been possible

without help along the way

and now it is his time to give

back, “I am one lucky person.

Advice to others would be

to acknowledge your good

fortune, your hard work and

achievements to date, and be

willing to give back when you

have the time and treasure to

do so.”

Since that first event, Robert

and Molly have provided

15 four-year scholarships

to BLCI students, changing

the trajectory of lives for

generations to come. Their

passion for education grows

with each graduating class

and through the match, they

invite you to join their efforts

to close the inequity gap in

education.

Donors can support a

brand-new endowed fund

with donations matched up

to $100,000, or to support

current use scholarships,

gifts will be matched up to

$50,000.

For more information of to

join the 2024 Opportunity

for Impact, and to make a

difference for the students,

please visit www.blci.org.

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 77


Community

Women Give

San Diego

After 14 years of

impact, Women

Give San Diego is

sunsetting. Gayle

Tauber, Linda

Katz and Jan Tuttleman

co-founded WGSD,

with a shared vision to

support women and girls

in San Diego, especially

those who have been

traditionally and historically

invisible. Collectively, WGSD

has granted nearly $2M

into the greater San Diego

community, supporting

women and girls’ economic

self-sufficiency. The

supporters of this important

organization came together

at the offices of SDG&E for

one last time to share and

celebrate the founders and

all the great work they did

for San Diego!

Sara Boquin, Darrah DiGiorgio

Johnson and Kay Dendy

Megan Blair, Morgan Justice-Black,

Christina Shih and Laura Rice

Kristen Mikolajczak

and Lisa Farnan

Johanna Schiavoni

and Heather Laird

Emma Rose Tuttleman-

Kriegler and Claire Groebner

78 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Christine Petrou

and Nancy Vera


Reimagining Our River for 21 Years!

The San Diego River Park Foundation

Amy Blum and

Gretchen Veihl

Taking Action to Celebrate Our River:

a natural, cultural, and recreational treasure!

Advancing a 52 mile-long regional

San Diego River Park

Kristen Emory and

Shawn McClondon

Award-winning nature stewardship programs

Connecting kids to nature through

hands-on STEM experiences

You are invited to join us!

Learn How at:

Jen Nation and

Megan Thomas

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 79


Community

Luego de 14 años impactando

en la comunidad, Women

Give San Diego está llegando

a su atardecer. Gayle

Tauber, Linda Katz y Jan

Tuttleman fueron quienes WGSD,

viendo la necesidad existente de

apoyar a las mujeres y niñas de

San Diego, en especial a las que

tradicionalmente e históricamente

pasaban desapercibidas. En total,

WGSD lleva otorgados casi $ 2

millones a la comunidad del gran

San Diego, asistiendo a las mujeres

y jóvenes para que ellas logren

su independencia económica.

Colaboradores de esta importante

organización se reunieron por última

vez en las oficinas de SDG&E para

compartir y festejar la labor de las

fundadoras y el gran trabajo realizado

por la comunidad de San Diego.

Jennifer Telitz, Nancy

Spector and Julie Duvick

Courtney Brown, Lacey

Lee and Kea Spurrier

Dori Gilbert, Megan Provost

and Alberta Saavedra

Blanca Melendrez and

Lakeysha Sowumni

80 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Shana Hazan, Nooria

Esmaelzade and Julia Dorfman


Support Your Local

Blood Donor Center

San Diego Blood Bank operates nine donation

locations throughout San Diego County, making

the act of donating blood convenient for

volunteer donors throughout the region.

Community support of our centers is vital to

propel our lifesaving mission.

Provide new beginnings to patients throughout

Southern California through a single gift or

monthly financial support.

Cynthia Souza and

Carmen Chavez

For more information, visit

sandiegobloodbank.org/support

Gayle Tauber

and Linda Katz

Your support helps blood

recipients like Jonah,

who became very ill at

just three weeks of age

and needed lifesaving

transfusions. Jonah is

now a healthy teen,

talented trumpeter, and

excellent student.

Laura O’Sullivan

and Kristen Diggs

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 81


Legacy

Women’s

Museum of

California

The Women’s Museum of California

celebrated the legacy of pioneering

female architect Lilian J. Rice. In

1910, Rice became one of the

first women to graduate from

the University of California, Berkeley

architecture program. Following a wine

reception, guests enjoyed lunch with a

special presentation by Diane Y. Welch,

official biographer of Lilian J. Rice.

Cori Brooks and

Emily Fawcett

PHOTOGRAPHED BY: DIANNA IPPOLITO

Jeanie Gerischy

and Debbie Sweet

Courtney Huber

and Lori Conger

Lynda Kerr and

Daisy Buclatin

Lezlie Reynalds and

Christina Macone-Greene

82 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024

Suzanne Newman

and Julie Pardee

Andrea Naversen

and Bill Lawrence


Cheryl Gross

and Ellen Gross

Sandra Maas and

Dorothea Wilson

Lise Markham and

Bernadette Bach

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 83


Legacy

The Women’s

Museum of

California celebrated

the legacy of

pioneering female

architect Lilian Rice. In 1910,

Rice became one of the first

women to graduate from

the University of California,

Berkeley architecture program.

Following a wine reception,

guests enjoyed lunch with a

special presentation by Diane

Y. Welch, official biographer of

Lilian J. Rice.

Anna Laurel and

Melanie Kartalija

Doriana Sinnett and

Rodell Jackson

Sophia Alsadek

and Jill Stiker

Sheryl Lester

and Holly Baltera

Laura Wile and

Diane Stocker

Supporting the cause

Nina De Burgh

and Mali Digius

Amy Wynne and

Cheryl Mcarthur

84 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


Ellen Bryson, Maggie

Watkins and Deanna Mackey

Ursula Kuster and

Dayna Arnold

Kim Snyder and

Kathy Stumm

Margy Hudson

and Amy Hobert

Giving Our Heroes a

Chance For Change

About Us:

STEP fosters financial well-being among junior enlisted

service members, recently discharged Veterans, and their

families, facing financial crisis. Through personalized

finance counseling, education, and emergency funds we:

-Eradicate Food Insecurity

-Prevent Homelessness

-Reduce the risk of mental health crises from financial strain

Emergency Assistance

Financial Counseling

Personalized Finance Plan

San Diego:

9915 Businesspark Ave. Suite A,

San Diego, CA 92131

(858) 695-6810

Washington:

4001 S Pine St. Unit 112243

Tacoma, WA 98411

(253) 442-2366

Orange County:

1631 Sunflower Ave. Suite C34

Santa Ana, CA 92704

(714) 444-0075

Learn More:

teamstepusa.org

@teamstepusa

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 85


Fundraiser

The Fleet Science Center’s

Gala Celebration

CELEBRATING COMMUNITY, INSPIRING MINDS

SciTech program

workshop

In anticipation of the upcoming gala, the Fleet

Science Center’s celebration is not just a

reflection on the past but a bold declaration of

commitment to the future.

The Fleet Science Center serves as a catalyst for

sparking curiosity and nurturing a profound

appreciation for science, technology, engineering

and math (STEM) across all age groups. Through its

diverse programs and initiatives, the Fleet is not only

igniting curiosity but also fostering and reinforcing

STEM identities in youth and adults alike.

The Fleet Science Center’s commitment to access

to communities is exemplified by programs like

Two Scientists Walk Into a Bar, which provides

opportunities for adults to engage with experts

in informal settings, fostering dialogue, curiosity,

building trust and a deeper understanding of the world

around us. As the program celebrates its tenth year, it

has seen around 300 scientists participate since 2014,

hosting 35 events and facilitating almost 4000 hours

(the same number of hours it takes to complete an

undergraduate degree) of conversations surrounding

STEM in the community.

Programs like SciTech and Better Education for

Women in Science and Engineering (BE WiSE) are

86 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


particularly instrumental in

inspiring youth. Every year, SciTech

offers an immersive dive into the

realm of science and technology

to more than 120 girls in grades

4–6 from up to eight schools

across San Diego County. Through

interactive workshops, mentorship

opportunities and hands-on

experiences, girls can explore

STEM fields with confidence and

determination.

Similarly, BE WiSE is much

more than a program for better

education; it is a supportive

community for young women

interested in STEM. In this

program, over 700 girls in grades

7–12 learn about and experience

what it means to be a female leader

in science and technology. As they

participate in workshops and visit

sites with the guidance of female

STEM role models, BE WiSE girls

Tech Challenge

winners

can see themselves as the future leaders and innovators

they can be, and along the way, dismantle barriers and pave

the way for the next generation of STEM professionals.

FLEET SCIENCE CENTER GALA

A LOOK BACK TO THE FUTURE

APRIL 27, 2024

Two Scientists Walk

Into a Bar event

These programs collectively

play a crucial role in nurturing

STEM identities, instilling a

sense of confidence and passion

that propels individuals toward

success in the ever-evolving

world of science and technology.

As the Fleet Science Center gears

up to celebrate its achievements

at the upcoming gala event

on April 27, 2024, it serves

as a reminder of the power of

community engagement. It is

not just a celebration; it is a

call to action - a chance for the

community to rally behind the

Fleet’s mission of connecting San

Diegans to the power of science

to create a better future.

www.fleetscience.org

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 87


Escapadita

Japan

ENDLESS DISCOVERY

Esteban and Danitza

Villanueva at Todaiji Temple

Few words can describe the

beauty, charm and energy

Japan offers as soon as you

set foot in the country.

Japan had been on our

bucket list of places to

visit and when researching

the country, we knew we

wanted to experience Japan

in the winter as it offers

the most beautiful winter

wonderland with breathtaking backdrops

and fewer crowds. The fastest way to travel

throughout Japan is on the Shinkansen bullet

trains, the fastest trains in the world! Our train

journey started in Tokyo.

88 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


Tokyo

Yasaka Pagoda

Shinkansen

Sorakuen

Osaka Castle

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 89


Where To Go:

Tokyo - To explore Tokyo, you

really need a few days as it is the

world’s largest city and offers various

neighborhoods. Each neighborhood

offers its own charm, restaurants,

sites, and shops. In Shibuya, there is

a pedestrian crossing located in the

very center of Tokyo, is perhaps the

most iconic symbol of the city of Tokyo

being known as the busiest pedestrian

crossing in the world as 3,000 people

cross every 2 minutes! Ginza is an

upscale neighborhood known for its

shopping, entertainment, and great

restaurants. The district for all things

electronic, fans of gaming, anime, and

Japanese subculture in Akihabara.

Located in central Tokyo it offers

various stores, pachinko parlors, retro

video games, and other collectibles in

between the electronics retailers whose

variety defies belief.

Osaka - Japan’s third largest city has at

its center Osaka Castle. The original

castle was completed in 1583 and was

attacked and destroyed several times,

most recently during air raids during

WWII. It is also known for their covered

Tokyo at night

Gokoyama

Japanese Snow Monkeys

90 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


Kobe Beef

Shibuya Crossing

Iiyama

shopping arcade Shinsaibashi-suji, one of Osaka’s oldest

and busiest shopping destinations, which runs about 600

meters in length - food, clothing, vintage, cosmetics - you

name it!

Kyoto - Less than one hour by train from Osaka is the

old imperial capital, Kyoto. Temples and shrines such as

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of the oldest schools within

Japanese Buddhism. In 1994, the temple was added to

the list of UNESCO world heritage sites. Fushimi Inari

Shrine, famous for its thousands of orange-colored torii

gates and shrines dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice.

As well as the Yasaka Pagoda popular as one of the most

photogenic spots in Kyoto.

Kobe- Known for the world famous Kobe beef, and home

to Sorakuen a traditional Japanese landscape garden in

the center of Kobe.

MARCH 2024 Kiyomizu-dera | GBSAN.COM Temple 91


Fushimi Inari Shrine

Nara- Located less than one hour from Osaka, you will

find Todaiji Temple which houses one of the world’s

largest wooden buildings and houses the world’s largest

bronze Buddha. Surrounding the temple are thousands of

Nara Deer, once known as sacred messengers of the gods.

These days the deer are no longer considered sacred, but

to honor tradition they are considered national treasures,

roaming in Nara Park and gently nudging you to be fed.

Shirakawa-go

Gokoyama & Shirakawa-go- known for the traditional

style, steeply-sloped thatched roofs for withstanding heavy

snowfall, picturesque villages with beautiful mountain

surroundings and homes exceeding 300 years in age.

Nagano- host of the 1998 Winter Olympics and home

to the world-famous Jigokudani Monkey Park. This is

the only place in the world where you will see these wild

Japanese Macaques, also called snow monkeys, soaking

in natural hot spring baths. In Iiyama in the Japanese

Alps also stands a village with an igloo restaurant which

offers a traditional hot pot meal in one of the most unique

locations in the world.

92 GBSAN.COM | MARCH 2024


Kaitenzushi

Jigokudani Monkey Park

Shinsaibashi-suji

Sushi- Kaitenzushi, also

known as conveyor belt sushi,

is a type of sushi restaurant

characterized by the conveyor

belt that winds through the

restaurant. The conveyor

belt carries plates of sushi to

your table, or you can request

custom orders by touchscreen

immediately conveyed to you!

What to Eat:

There is no shortage of delicious options of things to eat in Japan and we

want to make sure you do not leave without trying the following:

Matcha Desserts- Matcha is a powdered green tea ground from the leaf

and grown in the shade, resulting in a more bitter flavor which is added to

baked goods and works well as a topping for fruits or in smoothie mixes.

Noodle dishes- Udon is a thick white noodle made of wheat flour and

Soba is a noodle made of buckwheat flour and served either hot or cold

dishes served with meats, vegetables or on their own.

Tempura- lightly battered and deep-fried vegetables and seafood dishes,

the batter is unlike anything you will come across in the states.

Mochi- a Japanese dessert

crafted from sugary glutinous

rice flour, flavored with a paste

and have a dense chewy texture.

Often with strawberries, bean

paste or cream filling.

Cheesecake – This unexpected

treat is a soufflé cake that is light

and airy. Unlike the American

version, this treat is based on

whipped egg whites making a

treat worth waiting in line for –

because there will be one!

Kobe Beef – though we have

all heard the term, this delicate

meat when prepared by a

knowledgeable chef, is a melt in

your mouth experience.

MARCH 2024 | GBSAN.COM 93


THE FLOWER FIELDS OPEN

Carlsbad

www.theflowerfields.com

1

CARLOS BALLARTA

Downtown San Diego

www.carlosballarta.net

2

MAR

LAWRENCE BROWLEE

The Conrad

www.sdopera.org

2

MAR1

CHRIS STAPLETON

Downtown San Diego

www.chrisstapleton.com

8

DISCO BALL

Bahia Hotel

www.childrensnatureretreat.org

7 to 10

SAN DIEGO LATINO FILM FESTIVAL

Mission Valley

2

DAVID SPADE

Balboa Theatre

www.davidspade.com

www.sdlatinofilm.com

16 to 17

18

CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL

Japanese Friendship Garden

www.niwa.org/cbw

21

TASTE OF THIRD AVENUE

Chula Vista

www.downtownchulavista.com

14 to 24

21

TINYFEST

Del Mar Fairgrounds

www.tinyfest.events

CARROT TOP

Sycuan Casino

22

www.sycuan.com

23

VIVALDI’S MAGIC

The Conrad

www.theconrad.org

FREEDOM DOGS GOLF TOURNAMENT

Fairbanks Ranch Country Club

www.freedomdogs.org

23 KMFDM

Observatory North Park

www.kmfdm.net

MAINLY MOZART CULINARY CONCERTO

The Julep

www.mainlymozart.org

25

28

23

BAY TO PARK PASEO

San Diego Bay

www.wdc2024.org

SAN DIEGO PADRES HOME OPENER

Petco Park

www.mlb.com/padres

24

LYLE LOVETT

El Cajon

www.lylelovett.com

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN AND THE E STREET BAND

San Diego

www.brucespringsteen.net

30

PAUL OAKENFOLD

Downtown San Diego

www.pauloakenfold.com

31

EASTER

MARZO

MARZO


YOU’RE INVITED TO ATTEND THE 12TH ANNUAL

Supporting the Food 4 Kids Backpack Program

SATURDAY

6 PM

27

APRIL

2024

Outdoors on the grounds of the

San Diego Food Bank’s 90,000-square-foot

warehouse in Miramar

PRESENTED BY

CO-CHAIRS

Amy Jacobs

Jeannie Johnson Bolinger

TICKETS & INFO

SanDiegoFoodBank.org/Gala

CONTACT

Alexis Hernandez

ahernandez@sandiegofoodbank.org


one night

one warehouse

one cause

Support programs like the

Food 4 Kids Backpack Program

Dear Friends,

We are delighted to invite you to join us for the 12th Annual San Diego Food Bank

Gala on Saturday, April 27th, benefitting the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank!

As Co-Chairs for this year’s Gala, we

can tell you we have an exciting evening

in store for you! Our outstanding Gala

Committee has been hard at work

bringing fun ideas and creative visions

to life to celebrate the Food Bank’s

critical mission and to inspire this year’s

attendees to support the Food Bank’s

important work.

The experience from start to finish will

be a memorable one as we all gather one

night at one warehouse for one cause –

the San Diego Food Bank’s mission to

Jeannie Johnson Bolinger & Amy Jacobs

end hunger in San Diego County.

As dedicated supporters of the Food Bank for many years, we are constantly in

awe of the impactful programs and work the Food Bank is doing to help the more

than 400,000 people each month facing food insecurity in our community.

One of these programs, the Food 4 Kids Backpack Program ensures that children

living in poverty have access to healthy, nutritious food over the weekend when

free school meals are not available to them. As mothers, this program is especially

meaningful to us as it is difficult to comprehend any young child not having access

to enough food over the weekend when they are not in school.

The Food 4 Kids Backpack Program currently serves approximately 3,500

elementary school children countywide at 76 elementary schools, in 19 school

districts. Thanks to the incredible generosity of guests at last year’s Gala, we were

able to expand this program to these amazing numbers. With your help at this

year’s Gala, we can take even more children off the waitlist and give them the hope

and nourishment they need to thrive!

Whether it’s through the Food 4 Kids Backpack Program or any of the Food Bank’s

other programs, every week, the Food Bank is helping thousands of local families.

And because of their efficiency in leveraging every monetary gift they receive, the

Food Bank is able to turn every $1 donated into enough food for two meals!

You can see why we are passionate about the San Diego Food Bank, and we

encourage you to join us for this fabulous night in support of this very critical

cause… and remember to bring your dancing shoes!

With great admiration and appreciation,

It’s a Party!

Amy

Jeannie

Amy Jacobs & Jeannie Johnson Bolinger

San Diego Food Bank Gala Co-Chairs

See the fun for

yourself!


This Year’s Gala Benefits

Critical Programs Including the

Food 4 Kids Backpack Program

The Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank has served as San Diego County’s

food safety net for more than 45 years. Through a range of hunger-relief

programs and our dedicated network of 544 nonprofit partners, we currently

serve 400,000 people countywide per month.

A recent study produced by San Diego State University revealed that more

than 70% of our assistance is supporting working-poor families who have

difficulties making ends meet due to the region’s high-cost of living, coupled

with low wage jobs.

The study also revealed that the primary need for the Food Bank’s services is a

direct result of rising costs for food, rent and utilities. 76% of respondents cited

this as their reason for visiting the Food Bank, and 45% of respondents added

that they do not receive enough income to make ends meet. As we saw during

COVID, many families are only one major expense or paycheck away from

needing our services, which is why it’s so critical we continue to advocate for

our mission and the direct impact it has on families, seniors, active-duty military,

veterans, the unhoused and especially, children in our region. One program that

will benefit from the 2024 Gala is our Food 4 Kids Backpack Program.

The San Diego Food Bank started the Food 4 Kids Backpack Program in 2006

to provide weekend backpacks full of nutritious food to children in elementary

schools throughout the County. These weekend backpacks help ensure these

children have enough food for the weekend until they return to school Monday

morning. Each backpack contains a variety of shelf-stable, child-friendly food items

such as: fruit pouches, microwaveable oatmeal, pop-top soups, tuna and cracker

kits, shelf-stable milk, cereal and more.

Participating children are identified by school staff because they display chronic

signs of hunger such as frequent stomach aches, dizziness, difficulty concentrating,

difficulty interacting with classmates, hoarding food from the cafeteria, and

absenteeism. Once a child is identified, a permission request form is sent to the

student’s parents to enroll them in the program. Approximately 3,500 children

currently participate in the program through 76 elementary schools in 19 school

districts throughout San Diego County. Children in the program have shown

significant improvement in their grades, behavior and overall well-being.

Help us continue to make a difference for these children and others

still waiting for their chance to participate. It costs just $300 to

feed a child for one entire school year and with your help, we can

bring more children hope. Show your support for the Food 4 Kids

Backpack Program by attending the Food Bank’s upcoming

San Diego Food Bank Gala on Saturday, April 27.

For tickets and sponsorship

information, visit

SanDiegoFoodBank.org/Gala

3,500

CHILDREN

76

ELEMENTARY

SCHOOLS

19

SCHOOL

DISTRICTS


EMCEES

AUCTIONEER

Carlo Cecchetto & Marcella Lee

Anna Couvrette

The Jacobs & Cushman San Diego

Food Bank invites you to attend

our twelfth annual San Diego Food

Bank Gala on Saturday, April 27 at

6 p.m. outside under the stars on

the grounds of our 90,000-squarefoot

warehouse in Miramar.

The evening will feature live musical

entertainment, fabulous live and

silent auction items, our famous

Spirits Spin, specialty appetizers

crafted by celebrated local chefs and

a delicious multi-course dinner.

You won’t want to miss it!

6:00 p.m.

Cocktail Reception & Silent Auction

7:30 p.m.

Dinner Program & Live Auction

9:00 p.m.

Live Entertainment & Dancing

Appetizing Bites for Guests to Enjoy

Gala guests will stay well-nourished at the San Diego SPONSORED BY

Food Bank Gala starting with the opportunity to

enjoy a variety of specialty hors d’oeuvres prepared

by some of San Diego’s brightest culinary talents as

listed below.

From appetizers to a multi-course dinner complete with dessert, the evening

will be a culinary adventure for each gala guest to indulge and delight in.

Special thank you to all of our chefs who will be donating their time and

talents to ensure every gala guest has a delicious dining experience from the

event’s beginning to its end.

Ricardo Heredia

Cohn Restaurant Group

James Foran

Grossmont College Culinary Arts

Amanda Palomino

Kitchens for Good

Reyna Venegas

La Cocina Que Canta -

Rancho La Puerta

Sara Polczynski Seasoned Plates

Jeff Roberto

Sushi on a Roll

Danny and Dante Romero

Two Ducks

Vaughn Vargus

UC San Diego

Sadie Rose

CONCIERGE TABLE

CHEESE BOARDS PROVIDED BY

INGREDIENTS

DONATED BY


Take a Spin in Support of the San Diego Food Bank

Guests will have the opportunity to bring home top-shelf

wine and spirits at our “Spirits Spin” at this year’s gala!

Guests will receive one spin for $25 and five spins for a

$100 donation.

SPONSORED BY

The evening’s program is dedicated

to celebrating the Food Bank’s

critical work and honoring our

supporters who help make our

critical work possible.

The program will include a LIVE

Auction with the opportunity

to bid on fabulous experiences

and our Fund-a-Program paddle

raise. All proceeds benefit the

Food Bank’s critical hunger-relief

programs, including the Food 4 Kids

Backpack Program.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Republic of Music

This San Diego-based 10-piece band is sure to bring the energy with their

reputation for talented world-class musicians and vocalists. From the moment

guests arrive to letting it loose on the dance floor, Republic of Music will be

there to set the vibe and keep guests engaged and entertained.

Special Thank You to our 2024 San Diego Food Bank Gala Sponsors

Gala Committee

GALA CO-CHAIR

Amy Jacobs

GALA CO-CHAIR

Jeannie Johnson Bolinger

CHEF CHAIR

Sara Polczynski

All proceeds benefit the San Diego Food Bank.

For more information or to buy your tickets

today, please visit: SanDiegoFoodBank.org/Gala

OR email ahernandez@sandiegofoodbank.org.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Paul Amberg

Jennifer Anderson

Ellen Gruer

Cindy Hickman

Pamela Hunt

Sean Kelley

Jim Lennox

Jeffrey Light

Chalea Pierce

Leah Rippetoe

Mishelle & Tim Shinn


HAZLO LOCAL

RESERVE

HOY MISMO

DESTINO DE VACACIONES CERCANAS GALARDONADO

INVITADOS DEBEN TENER 21+ AÑOS DE EDAD PARA ENTRAR A EL CASINO. JUEGA RESPONSABLEMENTE.

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