Scripps Ranch News - December 2023

SPECIAL SECTION

HOLIDAYS Food, lights, elves, Santa

Health, Fitness and Beauty

PAGE 5

PAGE 12

Fun photos and events

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Volume 7 Issue 1 • December 2023

Farmer’s Market: a weekly family festival Santa will visit on Dec. 21

T COLORFUL PARKING SPOTS

Senor student drivers at Scripps Ranch High School used vibrant colors to decorate their personal parking spots in the school lot.

The students bid on spots in this annual tradition to raise funds for senior class activities. (photos

by Lisa Shadburn)

By Jill Alexander

he Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market and Family Festival is the place for those looking for something fun to do each week, whether it’s grabbing a bite, listening to a DJ spin tunes, or checking out arts and crafts booths.

The market is open each Thursday from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 10045 Carroll Canyon Road.

The Farmer’s Market will host its annual special Christmas event on Dec. 21 – complete with Santa stopping by from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Bring the kids and take photos for the holidays, peruse the many booths, have dinner, have a drink at Newtopia Cyder, have a cup of coffee at Hunters of Hendrix, or just hobnob with fellow Scripps Ranch neighbors.

“This is the first time Santa has put us on his schedule to visit and he’ll have an entire canopy with a backdrop.

Adults and kids can take as many photos as they like with Santa free of charge, so just bring your camera or iPhone,” said market manager Beverly Cassity. “We will also be putting up lanterns on our tables, with lanterns in the middle of the market so people can eat in comfort. We say, ‘don’t let the chilly weather stop you, and eat See FARMER’S MARKET, Page 2

There will be plenty of opportunities for photos during the special Christmas event at the Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market on Dec. 21 – including a visit from Santa. (courtesy of SR Farmer’s Market)

FESTIVE FUN

Lorelei Fleizach and Ava Giffen stand beside the Ride Above Disability table during events at the annual Girl Scouts Tree Lighting. (courtesy of Ride Above Disability)

A happy crowd enjoyed all the festivities during the annual Scripps Ranch Tree Lighting ceremony held this year at Hoyt Park on Dec. 3. The Girl Scouts from Troop 3817 were able to earn their Bronze Award by hosting this event. The activities included a bake sale, hot cocoa, crafts and a holiday sing-along. Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts who donated a toy for the Toys for Tots toy drive received a special patch. Artificial snow and a visit from Santa Claus highlighted the festivities. Ride Above Disability Therapeutic Riding Center brought cute “reindeer” donkeys for the enjoyment of the children.

Scripps Ranch Girl Scouts sing carols along with Santa as artificial snow falls at the annual Girl Scouts Tree Lighting on Dec. 3. (courtesy of Ride Above Disability)

NEWS, Pages 2-3 • HOLIDAYS, Pages 4-8 • LIFE, Pages 9-11 • HEALTH, FITNESS & BEAUTY, Pages 12-14 • SPORTS, Pages 15-17 • WORDS & PICTURES, Pages 18-20

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FARMER’S MARKET

Continued from Page 1

with us.’”

Additionally, there will be a jump slide lit up on the front lawn of Newtopia Cyder, a caricature artist, a DJ playing holiday music, a man selling balloons that light up, and bubble blowers shooting what looks like snow, Cassity said.

There’s always plenty to do and see for everyone and every age at the market, she added.

“For 17 years, the market was located on the north side of Scripps Ranch, but moved about 2½ years ago after COVID orders were lifted,” Cassity said. “We are now called the Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market and Family Festival. We have food vendors and chefs from around the world. These are people who lost their jobs after COVID-19 and that have been with me since then.”

Cassity said for the holidays there isn’t a better place to enjoy the camaraderie of friends and family than the market.

“You can also pick up lastminute gifts for those on your holiday list that you might have forgotten about,” she said. “Bring the kids and let them see what community is all about.”

In the future, Cassity hopes to branch out and do more advertising, propose special school fundraisers and attract other civic organizations to the market.

“We would love to host a Scripps Ranch civics night – we have lots of ideas on the table and doing whatever we can to bring back all the wonderful shoppers we had when we started our market that we’ve lost due to the time change and the move,” she said.

The goal is to “get back our regular shoppers because we need to get that shopper base back so I can bring in more farmers. I can’t do that if the ones that we have now aren’t supported,” Cassity said.

Cassity said the market would never have re-opened without the help of the owners of Newtopia Cyder.

“The goal was to get the Scripps Ranch residents out of their homes to enjoy the community, the outdoors and family and friends again,” she said. “That was the whole intention. It happened, and it worked.”

Cassity invites everyone to stop by on Thursdays and especially on Dec. 21 for the annual holiday festival.

“I want parents to bring their kids to talk to chefs, artisans and farmers, and

have their kids ask questions,” she said. “When they ask, they will remember all they learned when they shopped with their parents at the Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market, and they will carry on traditions long after … and share them with their families.”

HOLIDAY MESSAGE

We, at Scripps Ranch News, extend our most sincere holiday wishes to all of Scripps Ranch. It is our hope that you enjoy safe and warm holidays with your friends, family and all your loved ones. Furthermore, we wish that all of you are able to spend time doing the special things you enjoy as you celebrate this special season. Please take a moment to reflect on all the positive and good memories from the past.

We thank all our supporters: our readers, advertisers, reporters, photographers and all the sources who helped provide information for this news organization. We wish everyone a new year filled with peace, hope and prosperity.

Sincerely, John & Jacqueline Gregory Publishers, Scripps Ranch News

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NEWS

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Councilmember Marni von Wilpert seeks second term

A

s campaign season begins for the March 5 primaries for San Diego, many elected officials and candidates are working to secure votes for their positions. City Councilmember Marni von Wilpert reflects on her current term, which began in 2020, and hopes to continue representing District 5.

Scripps Ranch native von Wilpert participated in Girl Scouts while growing up and knew from that point she wanted to dedicate her life to helping others, she said.

“I grew up in Scripps Ranch on Sunset Ridge Drive, and my parents still live in the house I grew up in,” von Wilpert said. “Now, I have newly become a homeowner in Scripps Ranch and have been enjoying all of the little reunions I’ve had with people who went to Scripps Ranch High School with me or Miramar Ranch Elementary School who are now writing in and saying, ‘Councilmember, it’s been a long time. I have a question about my water bill,’ or ‘I have a sidewalk repair request,’ and it’s been enjoyable to get to do services for my real home district.”

As a previous civil prosecutor in the city attorney’s office, she said she knows what it takes to make change happen for the better in her district.

Councilmember von Wilpert has worked to change many people’s lives, including banning the sale and possession of ghost guns with an ordinance.

“Gun violence prevention is a big issue for me. I was a

Library parking work underway Work on expansion of the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library parking lot has been underway for a few weeks.

There is a construction fence around most of the upper lot and workers have been finishing up jackhammering and removing the original paving.

There are only two parking places available in the upper lot, and these are reserved for those with handicap placards or license plates. At peak times, the lower lot is at capacity, so library patrons are encouraged to use the overflow parking on Meanley Drive. A path from Meanley Drive leads up to the library.

NEWS

By Kaila Mellos

‘I wrote the first law in the State of California banning the sale of illegal ghost guns when I got elected.’

—Marni von Wilpert deputy city attorney before I ran for office, so public safety is my number one issue, and I wrote the first law in the State of California banning the sale of illegal ghost guns when I got elected,” she said.

“It requires any parts of the weapon to have a serial number, and people have to go through a background check to get the parts of guns, just like they do for regular weapons.”

She has also worked on legislation banning flavored tobacco sales in the City of San Diego.

“A Girl Scout troop inspired the second law I passed in our district. They were sixth graders. I asked them and said, ‘If you could pass any

City Councilmember Marni von Wilpert

law you wanted for the whole city, what kind of law would you pass?’” von Wilpert recalled. “These troops of 12-year-old girls told me they would ban flavored e-cigarettes and vaping.”

The council couldn’t have gotten the law far without the help of many petitions, including some from Scripps Ranch High School students.

“That was the law I am very

proud of because many high school students from District 5 helped, including Scripps Ranch High School, signing petitions asking the council to do this,” von Wilpert said.

If she is reelected, she hopes to further work on this law and double down on its enforcement. She is also working on something close to Scripps Ranch: the condition of local roads. Repairing roads

and other city infrastructure are issues she is hoping to tackle.

“We have a five-year plan for our water department, but we don’t have one for roads. We had just gone from mayor to mayor, from council to council, and every time a new person got elected, a new plan was formed,” she said.

“Our roads are a huge infrastructure asset, and we have invested over a billion dollars in our road system. We need to have a plan that outlasts council terms and mayor terms. So, I requested that the Transportation Department start doing a five-year rolling plan for how we will fix our roads.”

She hopes this plan will be rolled out by January 2024 with an outline of what will go into the project.

Councilmember von Wilpert wants to encourage constituents to contact her office with issues and questions.

“I just want to continue encouraging folks to reach out to us and let us know how we can be helpful. I will keep fighting for the things people want to see,” she said.

Visit sandiego.gov/citycouncil/cd5.

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HOLIDAYS

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HOLIDAYS

Try this menu of festive holiday flavor (Family Features) From the main dish to fresh salads and appetizers, roasted sides and baked sweets, you can take seasonal get-togethers up a notch by mixing traditional classics with newfound favorites. Consider this menu to give guests a memorable holiday experience, and find more festive recipe ideas at Culinary.net.

Elevate your cooking during the holidays with inspiration from Fresh Express and its more than 100 varieties of fresh, healthy and convenient ready-to-eat salads like the Sweet Kale Chopped Kit. Visit FreshExpress.com.

Here is one standout recipe:

Cornish Game Hen with Kale Sweet Potato Salad

Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 1 hour, 10 minutes Servings: 4 • 1 package (6 ounces) stovetop stuffing • 2 cups chopped apples, divided • 4 Cornish game hens (20 ounces each) • 1/2 cup butter • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided • 1 teaspoon paprika

pan. Sprinkle with salt, to taste.

Bake with hens 25 minutes, or until tender. Remove from oven and cool. Tent hens with foil and let rest 10 minutes.

Place greens from salad kit in large bowl. Add remaining apples and sweet potatoes; mix well. Toss with salad dressing. Add toppings; toss to combine. Serve Cornish game hens with sweet potato kale salad.

Cornish Game Hens with Kale Sweet Potato Salad (Family Features)

• 1 teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste, divided • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled, cut into 1-inch cubes • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 1 package (10.9 ounces) Fresh Express Sweet Kale Chopped Kit Heat oven to 350 F. Prepare stuffing according to package directions. Add 1 cup apples and fluff stuffing with fork; cool 15 minutes.

Remove anything inside hens, rinse cavity with cold water and pat dry.

In small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning,

Festive Side Dish

paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, garlic powder and pepper; mix well. Remove from heat.

Fill cavity of each hen with apple stuffing.

Place hens in 13-by-9-by2-inch baking dish. Tie legs together and tuck wings under. Baste with butter mixture.

Bake 50-60 minutes, or until thermometer inserted in thickest part of thigh reads 165 F and stuffing temperature reads 165 F. Baste with butter mixture every 15-20 minutes.

In bowl, toss sweet potatoes with remaining Italian seasoning and olive oil. Arrange in single layer on sheet

When you find yourself in a pinch this holiday season, turn to an easy side dish that can appease everyone. Make putting dinner on the table a breeze with a solution like little potatoes from The Little Potato Company. Ready in as little as 5 minutes, they come pre-washed and require no peeling or cutting.

Visit littlepotatoes.com.

Roasted Little Potatoes

Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Servings: 6 • 1 1/2 pounds The Little Potato Company Little Potatoes See HOLIDAY MENU, Page 8

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She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.

–Matthew 1:21

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Owners/Scripps Ranch residents, Bill and Cynthia Collins & Family, wish you and yours a blessed holiday season full of laughter and fond memories!

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HOLIDAYS

Scripps Ranch News | December 2023

Elf on the Shelf Facebook group

A

SUNDAY DEC 24 9:00 AM 10:45 AM DONUTS COFFEE HOT CHOCOLATE CANDLELIGHT & FAMILY SERVICE NEWBREAK.CHURCH/CHRISTMAS

fun, local Facebook group called “Where’s your elf, Scripps Ranch” is active once again as the holiday season arrives. Local residents are sharing images and antics of their home’s Elf on the Shelf – and the results are hilarious.

This is the description for the page: “Share your elf’s crazy antics with other elf infested neighbors! For inspiration, emotional support, and entertainment.”

To join the fun, search Facebook for Where’s our elf, Scripps Ranch.

NORAD tracks Santa’s journey on Christmas Eve The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) continues its decadesold mission of keeping track of Santa Claus and his reindeer on their journey from the North Pole to every home in the entire world to deliver presents on Dec. 24, Christmas Eve. Santa will land his sleigh on each roof, drop into each home and leave Christmas presents overnight. NORAD, buried deep within a shelter in Cheyenne Mountain in Colorado Springs, is the only organization in the world with the tracking capability to keep an eye on Santa’s incredible trek throughout the world.

NORAD’s mission tracking Santa Claus on Christmas Eve started more than 60 years ago.

It started when a local Sears ad in a Colorado Springs newspaper had a big image of Santa and encouraged children to call a printed phone number to speak with Santa. Unfortunately, there was typo, and the phone number was that of NORAD. That number led directly to the top secret red phone that was only used for global emergencies. More phone calls rang and, once the men at NORAD realized what was happening, they began answering the phone to let the callers know the progress of Santa’s sleigh.

NORAD will continue its Santa Claus mission again this year.

Visit noradsanta.org.

WINTER CELEBRATION with Santa Claus Thursday, Dec. 21st 3:30 to 7:30 p.m.

& Family Festival

1 Inflatable jumpie & slide 2 Great last-minute holiday shopping 3 25 fantastic food vendors 4 Special holiday bakery treats 5 Caricature artist 6 Light up holiday balloons 7 Pictures with Santa

Don’t forget your cameras or phones for pictures with Santa and our giant teddy bear!

Bring the kids, your families, friends & co-workers.

Contact Bev at (858) 603-3178.

10045 Carroll Canyon Road, San Diego 92131 Convenient parking across the street, courtesy of National University.

Please join us in thanking those who made the New Farmers Market possible.

VOSR

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HOLIDAYS

December 2023 | Scripps Ranch News

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7

Plan your tour of the lighting contest displays

A

bright and festive assortment of home holiday lighting displays are sparkling brightly in Scripps Ranch again this season. An abundance of these local homes with colorful outside displays have been entered in the 2023 Flint Super Real Estate-Scripps Ranch News Home Lighting Contest.

Boost your holiday spirit by planning a family night-time driving tour to see these festive outdoor lights. Use the map below to organize your viewing route.

Visit scrippsranchnews.com/mapof-lights to view an updated map of the entrants.

Organize your own driving tour of these displays. Select a night, invite family members and friends, and take them on a fun tour of these wonderfully decorated Scripps Ranch homes with outdoor holiday lights.

Anyone who decorated the outside of their home in Scripps Ranch with a holiday lights display was eligible to enter the contest. Judges from Flint Super Real Estate will select the winners. The winners will be announced the morning of New Year’s

ontest

JULIANNE SUPER ROBYN FLINT

real estate

Invite family members and friends, and take them on a fun tour.

Day on ScrippsRanchNews.com.

Photos and a story about the winning displays will be published in the upcoming January edition of Scripps Ranch News.

Prizes are provided by Flint Super Real Estate. These are the contest categories for prizes: Norman Rockwell Award An elegant display that accentuates and coordinates with the beauty and elegance of the home.

The Clark Griswold Award The most over the top lights.

The Nostalgia Award “Reminds me of my childhood.” Best classic holiday lights.

Grandma Got Run Over Award Funniest or best use of inflatables.

“It Takes a Village!”

The best decorated group of homes.

This contest has a rich history. It was started in 2020 when the nation

Anyone can organize their own fun holiday tour of the outdoor home light displays in the 2023 Flint Super Real Estate-Scripps Ranch News Home Lighting Contest by using the map below.

was under several restrictions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Scripps Ranch residents were becoming a bit stir-crazy, so they began decorating their homes with outdoor lights early that season as a fun and festive distraction. So, many residents jumped at the opportunity to enter this fun contest once it was announced. The result was a popular event in which people could show off their creative light displays, and anyone could view the many light

displays on a self-organized tour from the safety of their vehicles. Today, the Flint Super Real Estate-Scripps Ranch News Home Lighting Contest has become a celebrated holiday tradition in this community.

Thanks go out to the many residents who decorated their homes with outdoor lights this holiday season and entered this year’s contest. A special thanks goes to Flint Super Real Estate for sponsoring this fun and popular Scripps Ranch event.

HomesFor The Holidays

LIGHTING CONTEST

1. 11207 Vandemen Way 2. 11239 Vandemen Way 3. 11551 Swan Lake Dr 4. 11581 Swan Lake Dr.

5

5. 11711 Aldercrest Pt

4 3

6. 11863 Sweetbriar Lane 7. 11246 Pepperview Terrace 8. 10895 Canarywood Ct

6 2 1

9. 10921 Elderwood Lane

7

8

10. 10789 Charbono Terrace 9

11. 10719 Charbono Terrace 12. 10531 Medoc Court

10 11

17 19 20

18

13. 10513 Medoc Ct. 14. 10418 Moselle Street 15. 10283 Rue Finisterre

12 13

14

16. 11808 Caminito Sanudo 17. 10525 Scripps Trail 18. 10424 Pinecliffs Court 19. 11626 Timberlake Drive

24 2254

20. 11145 Forestview Lane

21

23

21. 10089 Mesa Madera Drive 22

22. 9940 Dichondra Ct 23. 10272 Aviary Drive

16 15

24. 10626 Arboretum Place 25. 10345 Caminito Surabaya

Follow the Google map at scrippsranchnews.com/map-of-lights.

The addresses are already entered for you; just follow from your current location.

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HOLIDAYS HOLIDAY MENU

Continued from Page 5

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/4 teaspoon pepper • 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped Preheat oven to 400 F. In large bowl, toss little potatoes with oil, salt and pepper until coated.

Spread potatoes in single layer on rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake 30 minutes, or until tender.

Sprinkle with parsley and serve. For extra flavor, add paprika, garlic and fresh herbs.

Decorative Cookies

A holiday meal isn’t complete without a sweet dessert.

For more than 120 years, Domino Sugar has helped millions bake special recipes like these cookies made with non-GMO, vegan, kosher and gluten-free Golden Sugar.

Find holiday recipes, baking tips and more at dominosugar.com.

These Ornament Cookies can be shaped any way you like to celebrate the holidays. The royal icing adorning these festive favorites is made with powdered sugar and meringue powder; just use food coloring to add a per-

Scripps Ranch News | December 2023

sonal touch.

Ornament Cookies

Prep time: 25 minutes plus 1 hour to decorate Cook time: 20 minutes Yield: 2 dozen cookies Cookies: • 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature • 1 cup Domino Golden Sugar • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract • 1 large egg • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour • 1/4 teaspoon salt • Royal Icing: • 4 cups Domino Powdered Sugar • 3 tablespoons meringue powder • 1/3 cup, plus 2-3 tablespoons, warm water, divided desired food coloring To prepare cookies: In large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and egg; beat until well combined. Scrape sides of bowl as needed. Add flour and salt; beat until just combined.

Dump mixture onto lightly floured surface and divide in half. Shape each half into disks and wrap with plastic wrap. Refrigerate 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350 F. Line two baking sheets with parch-

Unique gift ideas to share the joy of birds and nature

ment paper. Working on lightly floured surface, roll dough to 1/2-inch thick. Cut cookies using ornamentshaped cookie cutter. Place cookies on prepared pans and bake 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from oven and cool at room temperature.

To make royal icing: In large mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder and 1/3 cup water.

Beat on low speed until combined. Increase speed to medium-high and beat 8-10 minutes, adding 2-3 tablespoons warm water, as necessary.

Icing should be stiff enough to hold peak when tested.

Color royal icing with food coloring and decorate cookies.

Holiday Events DECEMBER 16, 17 The Annual ‘Nutcracker’

The Scripps Ballet Theatre and Scripps Performing Arts Academy proudly present their 35th annual, All-Youth Production of the full-length ballet, “The Nutcracker,” featuring dancers aged 3½ to 18 years old!

Discounted tickets are available for schools and Girl Scout troops. Scripps Ranch residents and SRHS students Andrea Chan, 16, and Addison Burvall, 17, will perform the roles of Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier. Based on the timeless holiday tale by E.T.A. Hoffmann, this classic tells the story of a young girl named Marie and her magical adventure one holiday evening.

Dec. 16 and 17 at 2 p.m.

Held at David and Dorothea Garfield Theatre at the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center, 4126 Executive Drive.

Tickets: etix.com/ticket/ o/8070/scripps.

DECEMBER 21 Farmers Market Holiday Shopping

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Visit the Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market for a festive holiday experience the week before Christmas.

The big news is that Santa Claus will visit the market to chat with children.

Parents should be ready to take photos of their kids with Santa! Great food, lots of vendors for holiday gifts, music and holiday fun for the kids. Dec. 21 from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 10045 Carroll Canyon Road.

SCRIPPS RANCH

LIFE

December 2023 | Scripps Ranch News

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9

SCRIPPS RANCH WELCOME CLUB

Fun, friends and festivities at Welcome Club

LIFE

T

By Denise Stewart

he Scripps Ranch Welcome Club is winding up the current year with festivities that bring members together for day and evening events. The special event that is the feature of the club’s holiday calendar is a Gadabout to La Gran Terraza to feast on the Christmas lunch buffet.

On the nineteenth of this month, members will travel to the University of San Diego’s restaurant to enjoy both the culinary event and the holiday entertainment experience that the university presents. Last year’s event was exceptional, so a large number of members booked ahead to enjoy the holiday festivity once again.

The monthly book clubs are celebrating with holiday brunches. Game groups are enjoying seasonal treats along with their later in the day games. The evening monthly meeting at the Community Center was highlighted by a sock exchange. Delicious Christmas treats brought a traditional holiday touch to the gathering.

While the Welcome Club is celebrating the current season, it is also making plans for the new year. Morning Coffees, which are a club tradition and a favorite event, are already slated for the months of February and March. The Bunco and Welcome Club’s Morning Book Group members celebrated game players, trail walkers, craft makers and the style of the 1920s and read George Bernard Shaw’s “The Great Gadsby” at their recent meeting. (photo by Anne Mcother interest groups will continue to enjoy their Clure) activities at different times of the day on various days of the month. Potluck suppers before Saturday evening performances at Scripps Ranch Theatre will include both members and their guests.

The year 2024 will feature some unique adventures and activities. With the current freedom to visit more places and pursue more opportunities, both day and evening events will be scheduled. A weeklong California coast cruise is planned for the end of March. Members are signing up because the Mexico cruise they took pre-COVID was so enjoyable. Holland-America made that cruise special for Welcome Club by including a gourmet dinner and wine tasting that was exceptional.

To learn more about the Welcome Club, try the website scrippsranchwelcomeclub.com

Eric Dickerson will play the lute in concert in the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center on Jan. 21. (courtesy photo)

Lute concert at library Join an afternoon of music composed or arranged for the Baroque lute on Sunday, Jan. 21, at 2:30 p.m. in the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center.

The “Pleasure of Your Company” concert series presents lutist Eric Dickerson performing works

by Sylvius Leopold Weiss and Johann Sebastian Bach plus other composers.

Eric Dickerson holds a master’s degree in music performance from San Diego State University. With more than 20 years of musical experience, he has committed himself to preserving the art of historical performance practice, performing early music on historical lutes, guitars and mandolins.

There is no charge for the concert, which is sponsored by the Scripps Ranch Friends of the Library, although donations are appreciated. Masks are recommended but not required at this time.

Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center is located at 10301 Scripps Lake Drive. Overflow parking is available on Meanley Drive off Scripps Ranch Boulevard, from which the library can be easily accessed via a paved walkway. It should be noted that due to a parking lot expansion project, onsite parking is currently somewhat limited.

Visit srfol.org or call (858) 538-8158 for information.

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SCRIPPS RANCH

LIFE

Scripps Ranch News | December 2023

SCRIPPS RANCH WOMEN’S CLUB

Events bring lots of laughter and good humor

By Mary Rea Publicity chair

C

harles Dickens said it best in the story “The Christmas Carol” – “There is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humor.”

The Women’s Club embraced Dickens’ quote as we celebrated the holidays together at our Annual Holiday Party on Dec. 3 at Yanni’s Bar & Grill. This celebration set the mood for the season with lots of “laughter and good humor.” Because the holiday spirit is about compassion as well as connection, club members took this opportunity to donate gifts to residents at Hidden Valley House so that we could brighten their holidays a little.

Thank you to our Social Committee, including Patti Beaver, Carol Murphy, and Lyn Cobb, for organizing the Holiday Party; and to Mary Lou Colbourn and Annette Stewart for the lovely centerpieces and decorations. A huge thank you to the Women’s Club newsletter editor Madeline Pantalone (who is

Hosts and organizers of the Women’s Club Holiday Party holding donations for Hidden Valley House include (sitting from left) Lyn Cobb, Carol Murphy, and Patti Beaver; and (standing from left) Mary Lou Colbourn and Annette Stewart. (courtesy of SR Women’s Club)

Enjoying the annual holiday celebration are (from left) Ray Higgins, Marianne Marion, and Judy and Phil Gagnon. (courtesy of SR Women’s Club)

also our club photographer) who took photos throughout the celebration and captured the special moments of laughter and togetherness.

December’s activities provided an enjoyable respite from the hustle and bustle of the season. In particular, our Book Group shared a luncheon and book exchange in preparation for selecting books for the coming year.

Thank you to our facilitator

tinued to hone their skills and techniques while playing twice in December. One of our members, Pam Madigan, initiated Mahjong for the Women’s Club nearly two years ago and continues to provide instruction and coaching to new players.

Thank you Pam for adding so much value to our club with Mahjong and for continuing to teach new players how to best manipulate 144 Mah-

Lin Schoenberg for planning this fun and delicious event.

The Fun and Games group took time out to gather for a relaxing afternoon to play the game Taboo where we formed teams and competed to see which team could guess more words without using the “taboo” words.

Laughter and good humor were definitely contagious during this afternoon!

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There are a number of activities on the horizon as we prepare for the New Year.

The Club’s Walking/Adventure group plans a late December beach walk in Solana Beach and, in early January, members will participate in the traditional La Jolla Shores Walk followed by a luncheon at Piatti’s.

If you are interested in our many programs and social activities as well as lots of contagious laughter and good humor, please contact our Membership Chair Laurie Wenger at lauriewenger@hotmail.com or explore our website at srwomensclub.org.

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The Scripps-Mesa Garden Club members gathered just after Thanksgiving to celebrate the benefits of their hobby. Members shared dishes featuring products from their efforts in making their yards productive as well as beautiful. The Garden Club, which has attracted members from both Mira Mesa and Scripps Ranch since 1993, meets monthly except in December. They will resume their fourth Tuesday evening schedule at the SR Library in January. Guest speakers and garden tours are planned that will enhance their knowledge of the best techniques to be used in local gardens. Challenges made by weather, soil, insects and other factors are regularly addressed in their programs. If you would like to learn more about gardening and the garden club, check the website scrippsmesagardenclub.com

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December 2023 | Scripps Ranch News

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Health, Fitness & Beauty Scripps Ranch News | December 2023

Healthy habits to help reduce stress

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(Family Features) Between work, family obligations and a constantly changing world, people in the United States are stressed. In fact, U.S. workers are among the most stressed in the world, according to a State of the Global Workplace study. While some stress is unavoidable, constant or chronic stress can have real consequences for your mental and physical health.

Chronic stress can increase your lifetime risk of heart disease and stroke. It can also lead to unhealthy habits like overeating, physical inactivity and smoking while also increasing risk factors, including high blood pressure, depression and anxiety. However, a scientific statement from the American Heart Association shows reducing stress and cultivating a positive mindset can improve health and well-being.

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Stay active: Exercise is one of the easiest ways to keep your body healthy and release stress. Physical activity is linked to lower risk of diseases, stronger bones and muscles, improved mental health and cognitive function and lower risk of depression. It can also help increase energy and improve quality of sleep. The American Heart Association recommends adults get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity activity, 75 minutes of vigorous activity or a combination.

Meditate: Incorporate meditation and mindfulness practices into your day to give yourself a few minutes to create some distance from daily stress. Some studies See HEALTHY HABITS, Page 13

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Health, Fitness & Beauty

Super foods for a healthy diet (Family Features) The health community has long praised the benefits of vitamins and nutrients derived from natural sources. For those looking to improve their health or take preventative measures, these 10 natural super foods can be incorporated into your daily diet to help support your health: Green Tea – Armed with a special type of antioxidants called polyphenols, green tea can decrease plaque formed in the arteries and can fight prostate cancer.

Rosemary – Studies have shown this powerful spice can reduce the risk of stroke, as well as protect against Alzheimer’s disease.

Almonds – Full of plant sterols and amino acids, almonds can help lower high cholesterol and promote muscle growth. These handheld treats are also rich in vitamin

E, which can protect skin from sun damage.

Fatty Fish – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fatty fish such as salmon, flounder and sardines can lower the risk of heart disease.

Bananas – This easy, portable snack is loaded with essential potassium, which regulates the nervous system.

Bananas also offer loads of vitamin B-6, which aids immunity and metabolism.

Whole Grains – These powerful body defenders have been known to boost immunity, protect against various cancers and reduce cholesterol.

Eggs – These energy-packed breakfast favorites contain a special type of protein that helps build muscle strength more than other proteins.

When compared to other breakfast foods, eggs can also keep you feeling fuller longer

with fewer calories and fat.

Spinach – Chock-full of magnesium, potassium and various vitamins and nutrients, spinach can prevent clogged arteries and protect against prostate and colon cancers.

Soy – This protein-packed food contains isoflavones, which can aid in treatment and prevention of prostate cancer. Also, research from the Food and Drug Administration shows that 25 grams per day can help lessen the risk of heart disease.

Dark Chocolate – Satisfy your sweet tooth and improve blood flow to the brain at the same time. Dark chocolate can also lower blood pressure and increase skin’s resistance to UV rays.

Find more health-conscious tips at eLivingToday. com.

www.scrippsranchnews.com

13

Over The holidays I want to…

q Eat healthy snacks q Take extra walks q Go to Pilates Happy Howl-idays from all the teachers and pups at

HEALTHY HABITS

Continued from Page 12

show meditation can reduce blood pressure, improve sleep, support the immune system and increase your ability to process information.

Practice positivity: A positive mindset can improve overall health. Studies show a positive mindset can help you live longer, and happy individuals tend to sleep better, exercise more, eat better and not smoke. Practice positive self-talk to help you stay calm.

Instead of saying, “everything is going wrong,” re-frame the situation and remind yourself, “I can handle this if I take it one step at a time.”

Show gratitude: Gratitude – or thankfulness – is a powerful tool that can reduce levels of depression and anxiety and improve sleep.

Start by simply writing down three things you’re grateful for each day.

Find a furry friend: Having a pet may help you get more fit; lower stress, blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar; and boost overall happiness and well-being. When you see, touch, hear or talk to companion animals, you may feel a sense of goodwill, joy, nurturing and happiness. At the same time, stress hormones are suppressed. Dog ownership is also associated with a lower risk of depression, according to research published by the

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American Heart Association. Find more stressmanagement tips at Heart.org/stress.

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• The top sources of stress are money, work, family responsibilities and health concerns.

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Health, Fitness & Beauty

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(StatePoint) Experts say that everyone should be careful not to neglect their skin health in winter.

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Free radicals can damage the skin’s cell function and DNA, and DNA changes can cause mutations that could increase the risk of skin cancer,” says New York City dermatologist, Rachel Nazarian, MD FAAD. Nazarian offers the following tips: • Keep up the SPF routine: Don’t stow that bottle of sunscreen away. Applying a topical broad spectrum SPF on a daily basis can protect skin while you’re enjoying time outdoors, and from the incidental exposure that occurs through a window.

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• Put the device down: Protect your skin from excessive exposure to the visible light emitted from digital screens like cellphones and laptops.

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• Sleep tight: During sleep, your body works to repair organs, including your skin.

Getting high-quality, deep sleep each night is essential for healthy skin and a healthy body. According to The Sleep Foundation, the best temperature for sleep is 65 degrees Fahrenheit, even in winter when it’s tempting to turn up the thermostat to toastier temperatures. You can also promote good sleep by keeping alcohol and caffeine consumption in check.

SCRIPPS RANCH

SPORTS

December 2023 | Scripps Ranch News

www.scrippsranchnews.com

Wrestling team starts off right

By Hector Trujillo

Falcons look for postseason return

By Hector Trujillo

A

fter finishing the 2022-23 season with a record by going 87-2 before losing to Oceanside in the first-round of the CIF-SDS Division II playoffs, the Scripps Ranch High School (SRHS) mens varsity soccer team hopes to close out strong with 12 games left in the regular season this time.

The Falcons got their first draw of the season with a dramatic 1-1 tie at home versus Olympian on Dec. 1, which was a nice bounce back effort after losing 4-0 to St. Augustine in the opener on Nov. 28.

“The team has a little bit better chemistry than last season, but it’s hard to tell at this time of year,” said head coach Hans Witzell.

Senior goalkeeper Greyson Philips is one of the players who has returned and is providing stability alongside his talented defensive backline.

Attacking midfielder Chris Moynihan continues to be a force to be reckoned with on the offensive side of the ball along with junior striker Ian Bae. “We’re always looking to make the playoffs,” Witzell said. “We made the playoffs last year and are going to try and win Eastern League.”

In order to win the league, the Falcons will need to dethrone Crawford High School, which they split two games against last season. Scripps Ranch will face Crawford at home on Jan. 24 and then again in the regular season finale on Feb. 9.

“It’s always hard to tell with high school soccer from one year to the next,” Witzell said. “Over the last couple of years, it’s been Hoover who has kind of been our rival, but our league is pretty even.”

Hoover High School and Scripps Ranch will face each other on Jan. 19 and Jan. 27, with the second meeting

being at SRHS. The Falcons will also play twice versus San Diego High School, once on Jan. 10 and again on Jan. 26; as well as two matches against Kearny High School, which is playing its first season in Eastern League, once on Jan. 12 and then on Jan. 31. The next game for the Falcons is on the road versus Chula Vista High School on Dec. 16 followed by a game against University City High on Dec. 22 before returning home to take on Poway High School on Jan. 5.

‘I think we’ve got the best skill team that we’ve had in the six years I’ve been here.’

—John Kreitzer

SCRIPPS

RANCH

SPORTS

Falcons junior Omar Akbar strikes the ball during a loss to St. Augustine High School on Nov. 28. (photo by Jim Wick)

Scripps Ranch High School (SRHS) wrestlers had solid performances on Dec. 2 as the young 2023-24 season continues.

Three of the four female SRHS competitors placed among the 30 schools that took part in the University City High Girls Tournament.

Hope Long took first-place and Chloe Ng took fourth place, while Khyla Adams finished in sixth place.

The boys varsity and junior varsity teams competed later that day at the Carlsbad Invitational, also having a noteworthy showing. Jack Hamilton took second place (144 pounds), Hendrix Lynn placed fourth (190 pounds), Micah Kollmeyer took fifth place (132 pounds), and Elisha Hosseini also took fifth place (120 pounds) among the 24 schools that took part.

The junior varsity competitors had a strong performance led by the two firstplace finishes of Matthew Tung and David Henderson.

Scripps Ranch ended up with nine placing at the freshmen tournament held at Escondido High School the day

15

before, including Keegan Wenker, Ryker Borgschulte, Haruto Umlauf and Taylor Ryan – all of whom took second place – while Jaden Gausman, Brock Bishop and Cade Hilton took third place in their respective weight classes.

“This is by far an outstanding performance by all four of our teams,” head coach John Kreitzer said. “It was a great showing.”

Scripps Ranch has already competed in nine tournaments with the most recent one being the El Cajon Invitational. The Falcons have 10 regular season tournaments remaining, which will include the home Tri Meet on Jan. 3 at Scripps Ranch High School followed by the Queen of the Lake Girls Tournament on Jan. 6 at Eastlake See WRESTLING TEAM, Page 16

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SCRIPPS RANCH

SPORTS

Scripps Ranch News | December 2023

LONG REACH: SRHS Falcons junior Dominic Stevens stretches wide as he attempts to steal the ball from a Vista High player during a Nov. 30 loss. (photo by Jim Wick)

SPORTS IN NOVEMBER

FALL TOURNAMENT: Ayla Powers of Team Miles fires a pitch during action in the Veterans Day Classic Fall Ball Tournament held Nov. 1012 in Escondido. The Scripps Ranch Softball Association 12u Team Miles won the tournament. (photo by Lisa Shadburn)

TOWARD THE HOOP: SRHS senior Bryce Bailey drives past a Vista High defender during roundball action on Nov. 30. (photo by Jim Wick)

WHAM! SRHS sophomore Chloe Marsolini takes a powerful shot on goal at point blank range as the Grossmont High goalie attempts to defend during a 1-0 SRHS victory on Nov. 27. (photo by Jim Wick)

WRESTLING TEAM

skill team that we’ve had in the six years I’ve been here,” Kreitzer said.

Kayla Lincoln is among the standout performers to keep an eye out for on the

Continued from Page 15

High School.

Scripps Ranch closes out the regular season competing

at University City High on Jan. 24 before taking part in the City Conference Championships on Jan. 27 at Lincoln High School.

“I think we’ve got the best

60-member roster, whose members were selected during tryouts that took place Nov. 6 through 8.

The CIF Girls Divisionals will take place on Feb. 3, with

the Boys Divisionals being on Feb. 10, and the State Wrestling Championships taking place at Mechanics Bank Arena in Bakersfield from Feb. 22 to 24.

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December 2023 | Scripps Ranch News

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17

SRHS steps into tournament play

By Hector Trujillo

W

ith 13 games left in the season, the Scripps Ranch High School (SRHS) womens basketball team looks to close out the second part of the season strong starting on Dec. 27 in the So Cal Holiday Prep Classic. This will be the 20th edition of the nationally recognized four-day tournament which showcases some of the most powerful teams from California and other regions including representatives from Washington, Pennsylvania, Texas, British Columbia, Nevada, Maryland, Florida, Kentucky and Arizona.

“We have three returners this season, so it’s a rebuilding year,” said head coach James Stewart. “Even though it will be a challenge this year, I expect us to continue competing.”

The three returners are senior Michelle Kramer, sophomore Clare Valentine and junior Ree Ree Davis.

“This is an interesting season coming off the last few years of being in the top ten,” Stewart said. “Every year there’s adjustments to the offense based on the players available.”

Scripps Ranch started off the season by splitting its first four games after losing to Westview High School in

SRHS junior Ree Ree Davis drives against a much taller Poway High School opponent during a 51-59 loss on Nov. 28. (photo By Jim Wick)

the opener on Nov. 17. The team bounced back and defeated Imperial High School in resounding fashion 65-25 on Nov. 20. After falling to Poway 59-51 on Nov. 28, the Lady Falcons came out with a 78-60 win against Torrey Pines on Dec. 1.

“We’re always going to play hard and compete, so it should continue being an interesting season,” Stewart said. “They are all important, but the opponent we have circled on our calendar is Cathedral Catholic.”

After the completion of tournament play, Scripps Ranch will have nine more

games left on its schedule, with four at home and five on the road starting with Cathedral Catholic High School on Jan. 5, with the rematch coming on Jan. 26.

SRHS still has two more games against Morse High School – one on Jan. 9 and then again on Jan. 30 – plus two games versus Academy of Our Lady of Peace on Jan. 16 and then again to close out the regular season on Feb. 6. The Lady Falcons will also take on Christian High School on Jan. 12 and Feb. 2; with one meeting versus Olympian High School coming on Feb. 3.

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Teams that compete for an AMCC championship select one member from each of their rosters who displays good sportsmanship through the season to be included on the All-Sportsmanship team.

To be eligible for the Academic All-District team, they must meet certain academic and athletic requirements.

They must be at least sophomores while holding gradepoint averages of 3.5 or higher. Athletically, players must be starters or key reserves who have played in at least 90 percent of their team’s games, or started 75 percent of the games.

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18 www.scrippsranchnews.com

WORDS& P ICTURES Girl Scouts create sensory path S A N

D I E G O

Scripps Ranch News | December 2023

LAIREMONT • MIRA MESA • POWAY • RANCHO BERNARDO • RANCHO PEÑASQUITOS • SABRE SPRINGS • SCRIPPS RANC

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STUDENTS OF ROCK

Students taking classes at School of Rock Scripps Ranch pose between performances during the school’s open house on Dec. 8. The festive holiday theme extended throughout the event as groups of students and instructors entertained the crowd. (photo by John Gregory)

AHOY, MATEYS!

Dingeman Elementary School students in Mr. Saguil’s fifth grade class spent the night on the Star of India sailing ship along San Diego Bay on Nov. 29 as part of a living history program. They learned skills necessary to survive at sea centuries ago. (photo

by Lisa Shadburn)

aile Ronchetto and Gabriella Stuzka, two Scripps Ranch Girl Scouts of Troop 4545, completed their Silver Award at Miramar Ranch Elementary School.

A Silver Award is a project in which Girl Scouts solve a problem in their community that they are passionate about and raise awareness. Maile and Gabriella created a sensory path at Miramar Ranch Elementary School for their Silver Award. Their sensory path involves both physical and mental activities that are used to help refocus students’ minds to prepare them for the day. Now, students and staff have a place to take a break from the classroom and relax their bodies and minds to create a better learning environment for everyone.

Maile and Gabriella are both Girl Scout Cadettes in middle school.

They have been Girl Scouts for nine years and have sold a combined total of almost 10,000 cookies.

Outside of Girl Scouts, Maile is a Civil Air Patrol (United States Air Force Auxiliary) cadet, and has been in the program for almost a year.

She has also been a Fellowship Christian Athletes Club leader for two years.

Gabriella has been horseback riding for six years. In those years, she has developed her skills to work with horses, collaborate with others and work with younger children.

According to Gabriella, horseback riding has become her sensory path in its own unique way.

They would not have been able to complete their project without the time and resources from SoCal Makers Market, Home Depot and Alpha Graphics.

Maile Ronchetto and Gabriella Stuzka work on their Silver Award project at Miramar Ranch Elementary School. (courtesy of Chantal Ronchetto)

Maile Ronchetto and Gabriella Stuzka (courtesy of Chantal Ronchetto)

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December 2023 | Scripps Ranch News

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Jazz Night

The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego presents a free, live jazz show with Future is Color Studio Sessions, featuring Skate

DECEMBER 17

19

Jazz. Dec. 21, 6:30-9:30 p.m. in the Sahm Seaview Room, Strauss Plaza, and The Art Park at The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Building in La Jolla, 700 Prospect St. mcasd.org

San Diego Bay Parade of Lights

(courtesy of Birch Aquarium)

F

TIDEPOOLING ADVENTURES

rom octopuses to sea stars, hermit crabs and sea anemones, there is no shortage of life in San Diego’s tide pools. Starting Jan. 20, nature lovers will have the opportunity to explore local tide pools with a naturalist from Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego with the return of Tidepooling Adventures. Guests will discover incredible animals that live in the intertidal zone, the rocky area that is exposed during low tide. aquarium.ucsd.edu/events/tidepooling-adventure

DECEMBER 18

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DECEMBER 21

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‘The Man Who Invented Christmas’

Steven Lone

‘Giving Season’

Holiday Concert

Kearny Mesa Concert Band announced its 2023 holiday concert, “Tis the Season for Great Music,” at 2 p.m., Dec. 17 at Madison High School Auditorium, 4833 Doliva Drive. Founded in 1972, the Kearny Mesa Concert Band is the longest continuously performing community band in San Diego County and is considered to be one of the best in the county. Tickets are $5 for adults and seniors, and free for students (with ID), Children under 5, and Military (with ID). Tickets may be purchased at the door.

Write Out Loud continues its 17th season of story concerts with “Giving Season,” the annual holiday program, on Dec. 18 in the Old Town Theatre, 4040 Twiggs St. Curtain is at 7 p.m. Performers will include Monique Gaffney, Steven Lone, Paul Maley, Veronica Murphy and Walter Ritter. Tickets

The Silver Screeniacs movie series presents “The Man Who Invented Christmas” on Dec. 21 in Poway. Silver Screeniacs is a free monthly movie series for older adults on the third Thursday of every month. Doors open at 12:30 p.m.; film begins at 1 p.m. Oak Hall East at the Mickey Cafagna Community Center, 13094 Civic Center Drive.

Poway.org

15

SCRIPPS POWAY ORTHO

Scripps Summit Dr.

The 53rd annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights promises to dazzle and entertain bayfront crowds on Dec. 17. The procession of approximately 80 lavishly decorated boats has become one of the most iconic events in the region. The procession will start at 5:30 p.m. and will follow the predetermined parade route.

Viewing locations: Shelter Island, 5:30 p.m.; Harbor Island, 6:15 p.m.; The Embarcadero, 6:45 p.m.; Seaport Village, 7:15 p.m.; The Pier at Cesar Chavez Park, 7:30 p.m.; Ferry Landing on Coronado, 7:45 p.m. sdparadeoflights.org

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Scripps Poway Parkway

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