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.
- TAGS
- japan
- the silver tea
- blci open house
- snap san diego
- judges luncheon
- lea by the sea
- world of wonders
- sd auto museum library
- marvelous minds
- resounding joy
- inspiring change
- san diego latino film festival
- donor appreciation
- chicano federation
- march 2024
- women philanthrophy
- women give san diego
- san diego food bank gala
- cj charles
- blci
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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
CJ Charles Jewelers
Downtown La Jolla - 1135 Prospect St. - 858 346 5301
Westfield UTC - 4307 La Jolla Village Dr. 2200 - 858 413 9534
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.
7918 EL CAJON BOULEVARD
SUITE N-347
LA MESA, CALIFORNIA 91942
(619) 260-8353
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.