Scripps Ranch News - March 2024

THIS PRIUS REALLY PURRS!

Car dismantled to spare one of cat’s nine lives

By John Gregory

Approximately 20 people joined the cause to save the kitten in a marathon effort between Feb. 12 and 13.

The drama unfolded as neighbors discovered a stray kitten in some bushes on Rock Creek Drive on Feb. 12. As they tried to catch it in a box, it ran into the engine compartment of a car parked nearby.

The owners of the parked car came home that night in another vehicle, and the cat jumped into that car engine compartment because it was warm, according to reports.

Members of the Real House Cats of Scripps Ranch Facebook page were alerted, and local cat lovers spread the word.

still in the Prius.”

Cowling posted a request on local social media pages asking if anyone could recommend a mobile mechanic to help retrieve the cat. Then she contacted the Humane Society again to see if they could send someone to help. By now, the numbers of concerned residents began to grow on the morning of Feb. 13.

At the same time, there was a report of a lost kitten in Scripps Ranch. That kitten’s owner reportedly went to the location of the car, but discovered this kitten was not hers.

Christy Cowling, a moderator of the Real House Cats of Scripps Ranch Facebook page, contacted the San Diego Humane Society at about 11:30 p.m.

“They told us to leave food out and wait until morning – maybe find a mobile mechanic to take the vehicle apart,” Cowling said. “The kitten was not stuck, it just didn’t want to come out of the car engine.”

So, they left food for the kitten and left a note on the car windshield so the owners would not start the engine with the kitten inside. The concerned citizens

“We had – I don’t know how many neighbors from that street plus people on the Real House Cats page and Scripps Ranch Information Exchange page –come out to see if we could disassemble the engine or coax the cat to come out,” Cowling said.

But, feline behavior is often unpredictable. The kitten made a surprise appearance, only to climb back into the engine space.

“We could see the kitten come out of the engine compartment and lay next to the passenger front tire,” Cowling said.

Someone from the Humane Society arrived on scene, delivering a safe cat trap. The person from the Humane Society said it would be a matter of simply waiting for the kitten to come out of the engine. Cowling helped set the trap near the right front tire.

Meanwhile, she had called about six different mobile mechanics, and none would come out to

This shy kitten was eventually released from inside a car engine after concerned residents did everything they could to rescue it. (courtesy photo)

Mechanics from D.C. Mobile Auto Repair eventually freed the feline after dismantling a car in which it was hiding.

(courtesy photo)

Prepare your home for wildfire with the Home Assessment Program.

The Fire Safe Council of San Diego County is now offering free home assessments in which you can learn more about how to meet your wild fire resilience goals with recommendations specific to your property. This is a 30-45 minute review of the vulnerability of your house and landscape to wildfire and ember ignition, including defensible space zones, home hardening principles and landscaping.

Review these steps to learn more about the program and how to participate:

Complete an application

Fill out an application on the www.firesafesdcounty.org/ hap website to receive a free assessment. If you require assistance to complete the application, call their office at (619) 562-0096 and a staff member will provide assistance over the phone.

Schedule your assessment

Immediately after completing your application, there

will be a confirmation pop-up to schedule your assessment. You will also receive the link to schedule via email. There are special days available based on ZIP Code. Schedule accordingly.

Assessment

A staff member will arrive at your residence at the scheduled time. During the appointment, you can expect a review of wildfire resilience principles including defensible space zones, home hardening principles and landscaping suggestions

Outcome

After your assessment is

completed, you will receive a copy of the assessment with recommendations that will help you meet your goals. Participants are not required to complete recommended measures and the data collected will never be shared outside of the program.

Fire Station open house

Mark your calendar for Saturday, May 18, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., for an open house at Fire Station 37 in Scripps Ranch. More details next month.

Scripps Ranch Fire Safe Council, srfiresafe.org, srfiresafecouncil@gmail.com, (858) 201-3711.

Many

By SR Friends of the Library

Parking lot expansion

Work continues on the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library parking lot expansion. The upper lot has been paved and should be ready for use soon, following which work will begin on the lower lot. However, the upper lot is currently completely blocked. The only available on-site parking is in the lower lot, including a couple of spaces reserved for those with handicapped license plates or placards.

From the lower lot, the library may be reached by the stairs or via a new paved sidewalk that can be entered at the near end of the lower lot.

Those who are physically able are encouraged to utilize the overflow parking along Meanley Drive, which also includes more than 30 spaces in the water department parking lot and can be accessed from Meanley Drive just before entering the small roundabout. Map and directions: srfol.org/lib-loc-hours.htm.

For those accessing the library during the evening, it should be noted that the lights in the parking lot, on the side patio and along the walkway connecting the library to Meanley Drive, are currently non-functional. The City is working to restore lighting. In the meantime, it is advisable to use a flashlight (many cell phones have a flashlight app).

As part of the parking lot construction, more than 40 trees (palm and eucalyptus) have been removed, including, more recently, removal of a number of large, mature trees between the lower lot and Scripps Lake Drive. Official plans include landscaping of the affected areas with planting of native and drought tolerant trees and shrubs.

Grace’s Book Nook: 31 years serving SR Grace’s Book Nook bookstore has been in operation for 31 years and served its first customers on the opening day of the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library on March 13, 1993. The Book Nook, as it was originally known, was the inspiration of the late Grace Roos, who chaired the early book sales during the storefront library days. Roos served as the first manager of the Book Nook, which was

renovated and renamed in her honor shortly before her death in 2007.

Grace’s Book Nook has served the Scripps Ranch community by “recycling” gently used books, magazines, CDs, DVDs and audiobooks donated by community members into new books and programs for the library. The Book Nook is staffed by volunteers and has been the largest fundraising endeavor of the Scripps Ranch Friends of the Library, generating

more than $300,000 since its inception in support of the library. The Book Nook is open Mondays through Saturdays during library hours, beginning 30 minutes after the library opens until 30 minutes prior to closing. Stock is updated almost daily. In addition to bargain books day in and day out, the Book Nook holds special “pop-up” sales on the second Saturday of every month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., during which See LIBRARY UPDATES, Page 4

SCRIPPS MIRAMAR RANCH LIBRARY

Construction on the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library top parking lot continues. A sign near the entrance points to the walkway to access the library. (courtesy of SRFOL)

The Scripps Miramar Ranch Library is one of four City library branches selected to host a celebration and exhibit of artist-architect James Hubbell’s work from now until Aug. 4.

James Hubbell is a worldrenowned architectural designer, sculptor, painter and stained-glass artist whose art is influenced by the natural landscape of Southern California. Throughout his career, he has used stone, glass, paint, wood and steel to create art on walls, roofs, floors and furnishings.

The overall exhibit and associated program of events is titled “James Hubbell: Architecture of Jubilation – A Mountain Home and Studios.”

Those entering the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library have the opportunity to view a number of large graphic panels depicting “Hubbell Mountain Home & Studios,” the source of his creativity – where thousands make the pilgrimage to Ilan-Lael in Santa Ysabel to walk its tranquil acreage and marvel at Hubbell’s architecture.

The panels at Scripps Miramar Ranch Library grace the

entry corridor opposite the library’s striking Terra Triptych stained glass windows created by Richard Spaulding and commissioned by the Scripps Ranch Friends of the Library at the time the library was built.

The exhibition is an official community initiative of the World Design Capital San Diego/Tijuana 2024. It was made possible by a collaboration between the San Diego Public Library, the San Diego Commission for Arts & Culture, the Library Foundation SD and the Ilan-Lael Foundation.

the shopping area is expanded. Look for the special semiannual mega sales twice a year, featuring the popular Big Yellow Bag special.

If you’re interested in exploring volunteer opportunities with Grace’s Book Nook, email booknook@srfol.org.

Donate books

The Library and Grace’s Book Nook welcome donations of gently used books and media. At this time, the Book Nook is especially seeking donations of fiction and nonfiction for adults, but any and all types of books for all ages are always welcome. Receipts acknowledging your tax-deductible donations are provided.

During the parking and access challenges posed by the current parking lot expansion project, it’s suggested that you call the library – (858) 5388158 – in advance to discuss the logistics of donating, especially if you’re donating large numbers of books. It may be advisable to try to avoid the later afternoon hours on weekdays as parking is especially impacted then. A staff member or volunteer may be available to assist in transferring your donation to the library.

The

SR Auxiliary holds major fundraiser

The Rady Children’s Hospital Auxiliary Scripps Ranch Unit scheduled its major fundraiser this year with the theme Joining Hands for Rady’s Children. It will benefit Rady Children’s Neuroscience Institute and Pediatric Inflammatory Brain Disorders (PIBDs).

Yanni and Denise Pihas, owners of Yannis Bar & Grill, are this year’s Premier Sponsor. They kicked off fundraising with a special offer at their restaurant: Yanni’s will make a 20 percent donation to the cause from each customer’s check when they present the Joining Hands for Rady’s Children flyer, or simply mention Rady Children’s. The offer stands now through March 21 at Yanni’s Bar & Grill, 12015 Scripps Highlands Drive.

The Joining Hands for Rady Children’s fundraising effort with culminate with a Luau special event held at a private residence in La Jolla on April 27 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Those attending can expect live entertainment; a roasted pig and luau buffet; and two drink tickets for tiki cocktails, beer or wine. Suggested attire is Hawaiian casual. There will be plenty of street parking available. Ticket cost is $100 per person. Learn more at rchascrippsranch.com. Buy tickets online: rchascrippsranch.com/events.

Farmer’s Market presents Spring Fling

The Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market and Family Festival will feature a special Spring Fling event on March 28.

For starters, visitors will enter the market through an inflatable archway at the Carroll Canyon entrance to the kid-friendly celebration. Children will receive a small gift as soon as they enter.

“We’ll be giving out eggs with treats inside for every child that comes through the market,” said Beverly Cassity, Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market manager.

Inflatable bunnies will also be at the market, adding to the fun atmosphere.

“There will be a caricature artist on-site doing caricature drawings of kids and whole families, if they choose to,” Cassity said.

A special vendor for the occasion will be a gourmet Easter bakery, and the Farmer’s Market house deejay will be playing holidaythemed tunes.

‘‘We’ll be giving out eggs with treats inside for every child that comes through the market.’

—Beverly Cassity

“Many of the different vendors will have treats in their booth that they will be giving away to the kids, Cassity said. “They’ll have a lot of extra things for the kids that day.”

As always, Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market attendees will be able to enter Hunter’s of Hendrix coffee shop as well as Newtopia Cyder for adult refreshments.

Plans were still underway at press time, but Cassity was hoping to arrange for an

inflatable slide, jumpie or obstacle course to place on the lawn in front of Newtopia for the children. She also arranged for a large Easter bunny to visit so children could have their photo taken with it. A possible drawing for prizes was also in the works.

The Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market and Family Festival is held from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. each Thursday at 10045 Carroll Canyon Road. Parking is available at National University across Carroll Canyon Road, or Cabrillo Credit Union next to the market.

SPRINGTIME

A festive archway will greet visitors to the Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market and Family Festival Spring Fling on March 28. (courtesy of SR Farmer’s Market)

Get creative with sweet, edible Easter crafts

(Family Features) Holiday hams and deviled eggs may take center stage at Easter gatherings, but edible crafts offer a reminder of the magic of the season that’s found in moments spent together. Simple recipes that call for a dose of creativity are perfect ways to bring the kids to the kitchen, made even easier when all that work leads to sweet treats.

While plastic eggs may have led to a decline in good, old-fashioned egg-dyeing, there are still fun ways to bring crafts back to Easter celebrations. Consider these Kids Krafty Easter Cake Pops, which call for little ones to help dip seasonal shapes in chocolate, use cake molds and more.

Children of virtually any age can relish in the joys of using cookie cutters and decorating Easter Sugar Cookies, all with a little supervision and short list of instructions. This version shows how to make the cookies and homemade icing so you can create any color you desire for maximum creativity.

Remember, these delicious crafts don’t have to be perfect – having fun and making memories that last a lifetime

are what make Easter truly special.

Visit Culinary.net to find more Easter inspiration and recipes from “Cookin’ Savvy.”

Kids Krafty Easter Cake Pops

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’

Savvy”

1 box cake mix

1 can frosting

1 bunny chocolate mold

1 cakesicle mold

ice pop sticks

1 bag white chocolate chips or melting chips

cake pop sticks

1 bag orange melting chips

2 tablespoons canola or coconut oil, divided

1 bag green melting chips pastel sprinkles

1 piece hard foam (optional)

edible markers

Bake cake according to

package instructions and let cool completely.

Crumble cake and mix with 1/2 can frosting until dough forms. Add more frosting, if needed. Using small cookie scoop, form dough into balls and set aside. Place dough in bunny molds then pop out and set aside with balls. Place dough in cakesicle mold, insert ice pop stick in each slot and freeze 5-10 minutes.

Melt handful of white melting chips. Stick tip of each cake pop stick in chocolate then insert into every cake ball and bunny until each has one stick. Set aside to dry.

Remove cakesicles from freezer and pop out of molds. In bowl, melt orange melts then mix in 1 tablespoon of oil and transfer to cup. Dip cakesicles and scrape off ex-

cess using rim of cup. Place on parchment paper to dry.

In bowl, melt green melts then place in zip-top or piping bag. Cut tip off bag, pipe carrot leaves onto piece of parchment paper and let dry. Melt remaining white melts and mix in remaining oil. Transfer to cup and dip ball-shaped cake pops and bunnies then tap stick on edge of cup to remove excess.

Over separate bowl, sprinkle ball-shaped pops with pastel sprinkles. To keep ball shape, let dry by sticking in piece of hard foam. Bunnies can dry face side up on parchment paper. After bunnies are dry, use edible markers to make face and color in ears.

When carrots and leaves are dry, remelt orange melts and place in piping or zip-top

bag. Cut off tip and drizzle orange over carrots. Add small line of orange on each ice pop stick and place leaves on each stick. Let dry.

Easter Sugar Cookies

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”

Icing:

1/3 cup meringue powder

1/2 cup warm water, plus additional for thinning (optional), divided

3 tablespoons vanilla

1 bag (2 pounds) powdered sugar

2 tablespoons corn syrup assorted food coloring

Cookies:

2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature

1 cup sugar

1 egg

1 tablespoon vanilla

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 dash salt

3 cups all-purpose flour

To make icing: Mix meringue powder, 1/2 cup warm water, vanilla, powdered sugar and corn syrup. Separate into bowls and add food coloring; mix with water, as needed, to thin for piping.

To make cookies: Heat oven to 350 F.

Cream butter and sugar.

Kids Krafty Easter cake pops and Easter sugar cookies (Family Features)

Easter cake pops and carrot shaped cookies (Family Features)

GARDEN CLUB Borrow garden books conveniently

By Denise Stewart

The Scripps-Mesa Garden Club has filled a book box with informative materials at Anderson Nursery in Poway. Anyone is free to borrow a text to learn more about growing things. They are just asked to return what they borrowed to the box when they have filled their need for information. Find the box right near the parking lot when you head into the garden supply store.

On March 26 at 6 p.m. in the library Community Room, the Scripps-Mesa Garden Club will be learning about Native California Gardens from speaker Sharon Colayco. She will also suggest ways to support the return of butterflies to our property.

A short business meeting and a brief social time are part of the monthly event.

As the days warm and lengthen, the Garden Club members will be enjoying local garden tours during the early evening. Those who are interested in the instructive presentations and pleasant botanical experiences are invited to the next meeting. Also, for those who just want to learn more about the local gardening scene, try the inspiring and informative website: scrippsmesagardenclub.com.

EASTER CRAFTS

Continued from Page 6

Mix in egg, vanilla, baking powder and salt. Mix in flour 1 cup at a time to form dough. Roll dough out to 1/4-1/2-inch thickness.

Cut into shapes, place on baking sheet and freeze 10 minutes. Bake 8-12 minutes. Cool completely before icing. Place icing in zip-top or piping bags and cut off tips. Put cookies on parchment paper. Trace outline first then fill in middle. Use toothpicks to smooth out.

Let dry 6 hours and finish decorating with different icing colors or edible markers.

Fun Easter gifts kids will love

(StatePoint) While bunnyand egg-shaped candies are always crowd-pleasing favorites during Easter, you can make the holiday extra special for kids with some less sugary treats that can be enjoyed year-round. For a joy-filled celebration, get inspired with these fun and egg-cellent ideas for Easter baskets:

Great books: Books unlock new worlds and ideas, making them great gifts on any occasion. Easter is no exception. Use the opportunity to stock children’s shelves with fiction by favorite and new-to-them authors, as well as non-fiction books on subjects of interest to them. With the thoughtful gift of brand-new titles to discover, they’ll be well-prepared to stay engaged and entertained during the downtime of spring and summer vacation ahead. A few thematic ideas include, “The Good Egg: An Easter and Springtime Book for Kids” and “The Velveteen Rabbit.”

Cool toys: Make children’s days tweet-tastic with VTech Gabbers, fluffy bird buddies

that can be brought along on adventures by sliding a fabric-covered magnetic egg under one’s shoulder sleeve and perching the bird on top. Three different colored Gabbers: Jay Blue, Finch Pink and Owl White, all sing, make funny sounds and will repeat and tweet the things kids say in a funny voice! Whether you gift one bird, or all three, this will be a beloved and adorable addition to any Easter basket. Another cool idea that puts a spin on Easter eggs: Switch & Go Hatch & Roaaar Eggs. They open up to include all the pieces needed to build 2-in-1 dinosaur vehicles. The line-up includes a T-rex racer, pterodactyl chopper and more. Visit amazon.com/ vtechtoys.

Inspiration and Gear: Another fun addition to Easter baskets is gear and tools that support kids’ hobbies, passions and talents. For example, if you’re shopping for a young artist, consider gifting them a watercolor set, crafting kit or kid-friendly knitting needles. For a child interested in the performing arts, you can get them started on their jour-

ney with a gift certificate for music, acting or dance lessons. Or help get a budding athlete prepared for the spring and summer sports seasons ahead with a lightup baseball or softball, which will allow them to extend their game of catch into the evening.

• 11 a.m., Theresa Everett discusses landscape requirements meeting the general bird population’s needs. She’ll also talk about the preferences of our favorite local birds and how to provide for them in your garden.

• 1 p.m., Critter Encounters talk about sustainability, endangered species and their importance in the ecosystem. Meet amazing feathered friends up-close.

Win Prizes:

• $50 WBU Gift Card

• A copy of “The Joy of Bird Feeding” book

PLUS: A whole lot more! Visit facebook.com/WBUSanDiego.

It’s a great way to celebrate our customers and the nature we all love!

The book box at Anderson Nursery in Poway. (photo by Susan Castellana)

With a few tweaks to your Easter basket routine, you can make the holiday fun and memorable for children. (StatePoint)

Dr. Santoro’s sons, Andrew Joseph and Nicholas Jenson, are ready for a visit from the Easter bunny!

SCRIPPS RANCH WOMEN’S CLUB

Club offers enticing activities for all tastes

By Mary Rea Publicity chair

Every year, a highlight for the Scripps Ranch Women’s Club is giving back to our community. The Women’s Club is currently in the process of accepting applications for Scholarships from Scripps Ranch High School senior girls as well as requests for funding from local schools and nonprofit community groups to support their high priority projects. Please refer to our website at srwomensclub.org/ our-community-support for application forms as well as specific information and criteria for funding. April 12, which is the final date for submitting applications, is just around the corner.

Last month, we celebrated February by sampling chocolate delicacies at Seabreeze Craft Chocolates. We also learned about the complex processes involved in making gourmet chocolates from the owner and master chocolatier Jim Lantry. This special outing concluded with a delightful luncheon at nearby Spices Thai Kitchen. Also on the agenda for February was a visit to the San Diego Zoo

Safari Park, which appealed to our regular walking group as well as the wildlife and nature lovers among us. March put us in high spirits with a number of engaging activities! Our calendars were filled with fun programs, including a stroll through the serene Japanese Friendship Gardens at the center of Balboa Park. We enjoyed the cherry tree blossoms, lush landscaping, and beautiful waterways and koi ponds. Lunch followed at the

charming Tea Pavilion.

Later in the month, our Arts and Culture group organized a trip to the San Diego Museum of Art to attend a featured performance of three contemporary dances by the Malashock Dance Company. All three innovative dances were inspired by various works of art at the museum. The day was capped off with many of our members, their spouses and friends enjoying dinner at nearby restaurants, such as

•

•

The Prado, Parc Bistro, and Cucina Urbana.

The plan is to end March on an active note with an adventure walk through the Ramona Grasslands Preserve. April will begin with a unique experience, an excursion to the WNDR Museum which provides visitors with an immersive, multi-sensory experience combining art and technology.

Mahjong, anyone? Or are you interested in Bunco, Bridge, Book Discussions, Arts and Culture, Walking with Friends, Teas and Lunches, Happy Hours, and Special Events? The Women’s Club is clearly enticing and appeals to all interests and tastes. A wonderful feature of our Club is that you have so many activities to choose from and you can join us according to your interests. Our Membership Chair Laurie Wenger at lauriewenger@hotmail.com will be happy to provide you with additional information. Our website at srwomensclub.org is also a good source for those interested in our Club’s many social programs and charitable projects.

Those attending the Seabreeze Craft Chocolates Tasting and Tour included (seated from left) Gigi Cramer, Patti Beaver, Lynn Parke, Lynnell Hallock; and (standing) Diane Lennert, Michelle Cyphers, Paula Marrone, Mary Rea, Pam Madigan, Anne McClure, Sally Anderson, Renie Martin, Erica Berick, Beth Surrell, Diana Whitney, Liz Robert and Carol Merten. (courtesy of SR Women’s Club)

‘Pollution is worse than fentanyl’

By Larry Peranich

Dirty air killed 100,000 Americans last year, more than the 75,000 killed by fentanyl!

While we can reduce our individual polluting by trading a gasoline car for an EV, replacing our gas furnace with a heat pump, and so on, not everyone has the financial resources or interest to do so. We need action at a societal level, and for this we need politicians to understand how dirty air harms us and those we love.

Air pollution increases heart attacks and strokes, COPD and severe childhood asthma attacks. It raises the likelihood of miscarriage and infant deaths, reduced lung function in children, heightened lung cancer, diabetes and Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. In addition to the personal tragedies of illness and early death, the medical costs of dirty air are staggering.

and prevent 3,000 cases of lung cancer, 10,600 preterm or low weight births, and 748,660 cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses each year. The American Medical Association and the American Lung Association are also calling for stricter standards.

Pollution from diesel engines is very dangerous, responsible for 70 percent of the cancers caused by air pollution. People living near freeways and industrial areas are exposed to high levels of diesel particulate matter.

The American Lung Association says, “pollution does not just make people die a few days earlier than they might otherwise –in many cases these deaths would not have occurred for years if the air were cleaner.”

Perhaps politicians believe that existing air pollution laws and regulations are sufficient, but medical organizations disagree. The American Thoracic Society says modestly stricter EPA standards could save 21,300 lives

A Lung Association poll showed that 72 percent of Americans want stricter government standards on air pollution, particularly for soot and other particulate pollution. This polling also demonstrated that people across the political spectrum want cleaner air. The least expensive and most impactful action we can take is to contact our elected officials. We can ask them to keep our children healthier by replacing diesel school buses with electric buses, or to make EVs affordable for ordinary Americans by prompting construction of more charging stations. Incentivizing replacement of diesel trucks with electric trucks has a huge impact. Politicians respond to voters’ concerns, but they must know about those concerns. Please tell your elected officials that you want them to advocate for cleaner air. You can find their contact information on their websites or email info@movefasterenv.org for help.

Upcoming event:

Garden Share in the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library courtyard, Saturday, April 13, 2-3:30 p.m.

Sustainable Scripps Ranch is a standing committee of the Scripps Ranch Civic Association. To learn more about Sustainable Scripps Ranch, visit scrippsranch.org/ssr or email SustainableSR@scrippsranch.org.

Wrinkles: subtle yet visible lines etched on our skin. They are often associated with aging and the natural wear and tear of life. They can also be from:

• Genetics

• Sun exposure

• Lifestyle choices

• Gradual loss of collagen

So, we all start to see lines in the mirror eventually. What can we do to slow that process?

• Wearing sunscreen everyday

• Avoiding smoking

• Topical overnight treatments

• Neuromodulator injections, like Botox

What is Botox?

One extremely popular way to reduce the appearance of wrinkles is neuromodulators, such as botulinum toxin type A, also known as Botox. And it’s professionally administered here in Scripps Ranch at Synerchi Medical Spa!

How Does Botox Work?

Neuromodulators work by temporarily weakening the

muscles responsible for creating wrinkles. By blocking the signals from the nerves to the muscles, these compounds prevent muscles from contracting forcefully, softening the appearance of wrinkles and preventing new ones from forming. This process is particularly effective for dynamic wrinkles caused by repetitive facial movements like smiling, frowning, or squinting, and to soften:

• Crow’s feet

• Elevens (also known as frown lines or glabella)

• Horizontal forehead lines

• Smile lines/nasolabial folds.

At Synerchi Medical Spa, your appointment begins with a Good Faith Exam by the Medical Director or a

Cal Coast celebrates Lunar New Year

California Coast Credit Union in Scripps Ranch held its second annual Lunar New Year Event on Feb. 17. This event was opened to the community, and included live lion dancers, music and traditional treats that represent the Lunar New Year. This is the year of the Dragon. California Coast Credit Union (Scripps Office) partnered with Share Tea (Mira Mesa) to celebrate with a grand lion dance performance, followed by firecrackers and refreshments. The event was attended by staff and management from both organizations and the community they serve.

Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, is an annual celebration. It marks the beginning of spring and a new year on the lunisolar calendar. The dragon symbolizes wisdom and strength.

Nurse Practitioner. Your eligibility for Botox will be confirmed and any risks will be explained.

Next: a treatment room where an experienced Registered Nurse or NP injects the Botox. This minimally invasive procedure takes just a few minutes! Results are noticeable within a week and can last for several months, depending on units used, individual metabolism and muscle activity.

Choosing a Provider

It’s important to consult with a qualified provider to discuss risks, benefits and

personalized treatment plans for Botox. Additionally, the staff at Synerchi can advise on your overall skin health through skincare, sun protection and other treatments that can complement the effects of your Botox in achieving more youthful-looking skin.

Synerchi before and after Forehead Line Treatment

Synerchi Crow’s Feet Treatment before and after

Aimee Rico, branch manager of California Coast Credit Union Scripps Ranch, and supervisor Jimmy Michael celebrate Lunar New Year. (courtesy photo)

Welcome Club is blooming with activities

By Denise Stewart

The Scripps Ranch Welcome Club’s March calendar is blooming with activities for the women who are members. Out of the 30 days in the month, 19 days have a planned event. The activities bring locals together for entertainment, exercise, dining, the exchange of ideas or the expression of creative talents.

This month’s general meeting on the second Tuesday evening at the Rec Center featured a lesson in western dancing by the Wranglers Square Dance Club. Welcome Club President Starlene Dahl and her partner Brad Wettlaufer got those willing out of their chairs and led the group in square dance moves.

As usual, the trail walkers, organized by Janell Boustany, will be out there enjoying the local greenery three times a week as they stroll through the eucalyptus. A new group is forming to take on more challenging trails outside this community. They will be stepping out when the rain stops and the sun shines regularly again.

PRIUS

Continued from Page 1

help. Eventually, Jenny Major from Sunrise Rescue, a pet rescue organization specializing in helping with fragile animals, was able to assist with the effort. Sunrise Rescue contacted DC Mobile Auto Repair, which sent a pair of mechanics.

“They came and disassembled the Prius. They put it up on the jack and took out the skid plate, part of the engine and then the kitten finally got scared enough to

Ages

Two different Bunco groups – one in the daytime, the other in the evening – are entertaining for the dice rollers.

A coffee gathering that was accompanied by lavish brunch dishes delighted those attending. With both the culinary treats and friendly conversation complementing the coffee, it was a splendid morning. This month Janet Weigel was the hostess.

Crafters met at Beverly Wash’s home to express their creative talents and created an Easter project.

The Gadabouts followed Pam Savelsberg up to Escondido to O’Sullivan’s Irish Pub

where it went into the side panel of the vehicle,” Cowling said. “Jenny Major was able to grab it and then put it in the crate.”

Now, the kitten is in the safe care of Sunrise Rescue and has been named Prius.

The mechanics from DC Mobile Auto Repair didn’t know they were being dispatched to rescue a kitten until they arrived at the scene, but “they were amazing,” Cowling said.

Sunrise Rescue paid for the services of the mobile mechanics. This is about the third time

Often it follows a movie or other feature.

While March didn’t provide a pre-theatre party and performance at the Scripps Ranch Theatre, April will. Tickets are booked for the play and potluck specialties are being prepared to make the event an evening favorite for many in the club.

A fair-weather occasion will be coming around again in the next month or so when TGIs are revived. These outdoor bring-a-friend gatherings feature a potluck and socializing during the longer weekend evenings. Visit scrippsranchwelcomeclub.com.

Jenny Major from Sunrise Rescue has helped with a cat rescue in Scripps Ranch in recent years, Cowling said.

“She was a tremendous help and has really been a big help to our community,” Cowling added. “She deserves a lot of accolades.”

Visit sunriserescue.com to learn more about the organization, view pets for adoption or volunteer. Contributions can be made to the Sunrise GoFundMe page: gofundme. com/f/sunriserescue. Contact: info@sunriserescue.com or call (480) 266-8597.

Ages

The Kiwanis Club of Scripps Ranch will hold its second annual Rummage & Bake Sale on Saturday, April 20, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Jerabek Elementary School parking lot at 10050 Avenida Magnifica.

ties are invited to come shop the rummage sale, buy some deli cious baked goods and get to know the Kiwanis Club of Scripps Ranch members. The club will have a variety of items for sale – everything from kids clothing, housewares, toys, holiday decor, home decor and many other surprises shoppers might not be able to go home without. Expect to have great prices. As always, proceeds go to a great cause.

The Kiwanis Club of Scripps Ranch is very young, only a few years old. It is quickly building a list of local children’s organizations to support. It became clear the club needed to do some fundraising to accomplish this goal. The club members decided to do a Rummage & Bake Sale every spring, and a Holiday Market every year in the late fall. The Kiwanis Club of Scripps Ranch wants to establish these as annual community fundraising events the community can anticipate and participate in yearly.

The club will accept donations for this event, especially toys; infant, children’s and teen clothes; coats and jackets; small appliances; yard and garden items; and tools and sporting equipment. All donations must be gently used and in saleable condition.

To donate, call (858) 255-0212 or email: scrippsranchkiwanis@gmail.com by April 15.

Scripps Ranch Welcome Club members gathered for a delightful tea. (photo by Rose Mack)

Kiwanis Club of Scripps Ranch members staff a booth at last year’s Rummage & Bake Sale. (courtesy of SR Kiwanis Club)

The novel titled “The Pig Farmer’s Wife” is not about farming nor is it entirely about living on a farm. Instead, it’s a tale about survival, resilience, ethical life decisions and human character. It’s full of twists and surprises.

What’s most important –by some accounts – is that readers have become captivated by the characters and form opinions about their actions.

“I’ve had some people say they felt sorry for the key person, but at the same time, they had some animosity toward her,” said author LaVonne Misner, a longtime Scripps Ranch resident.

The book addresses important issues about freedoms and liberties for women –rights that are being challenged today just as they were in the past. A shining instance of how the novel stirs emotions was exemplified during a recent visit by the author to a gathering of one of the Scripps Ranch Welcome Club’s reading groups.

“They talked about some of the characters like they were acquaintances who live in the Ranch. They had opinions about them, which was really fun,” Misner said. “They felt a kinship with the characters and the discussion sounded like they were people who they knew, and they had strong opinions about them.”

That, in itself, is the very essence of success for any author.

Misner said she did lots of research for “The Pig Farmer’s Wife,” which explores a time in the 1950s and ’60s.

“This book is about strong, resilient women during the

early stages of what we now call the second wave of feminism, which means women at that time were just beginning to realize, yes, we have the vote, but they still didn’t have monetary equality. They still needed a male overseer in order to have a credit card or any bank loans,” Misner said. “So, they realized they still didn’t have an equal hand in their lives or their world. So, that’s the setting of this book.”

The story is set in Minnesota, where the author once resided.

ey if there is a male who would handle her finances for her – and that person would take a large percentage. Gert, the heroine, decides the best thing to do is marry. So, she asks the boy she is dating to marry her. It’s a marriage of convenience, Misner said.

“The book opens with a woman in her early college years. There’s a fire in her parents’ store, and they live in the back of the store – and (the parents) die. She is the sole inheritor of an insurance policy, but she can’t access it because she doesn’t have a male overseer,” Misner said.

There is no brother, no uncle, no one to handle the finances. The insurance company can only issue the mon-

“They marry and he buys a pig farm with the money (against her wishes),” Misner explained.

But Gert has never been around pigs and her husband uses all the money.

“She needs to adjust to farm life, which is not easy for her,” Misner said. The story unfolds from there. Gert gets left on her own, struggles to survive and establishes a new life for herself.

“She meets up with older women and they start a business. You worry about her throughout and yet she’s a strong woman,” Misner said. “The women in the novel, they are all different ages. They probably would not typically meet. Sometimes people think you put a group of women together, they’ll never get along or they’re so different … they’re not going to meld. But they do. They use their skills and their weaknesses. They help boost one another up. It’s very heartwarming to see the unification of the women when they set up this business.”

At first, the townspeople mocked the women and their business, but they eventually rallied around them.

“Even the men turned their attitudes around. They didn’t want their business to fail. They saw how important it was for the men and women to work together,” Misner said.

The book has some very funny scenes as well as somber scenes, Misner said. Readers don’t know what’s going to happen because there are so many twists and turns, she added.

“I’ve had good reviews where people said they didn’t get anything done that day. They sat down; they thought they would just read a chapter, and they kept reading and reading. So, it pulls you in. It’s a story and it’s an adventure,” Misner said. “I wrote this novel to encourage women to think about and discuss women’s issues, particularly during this tum-

‘Stew’ is all about the family

By John Gregory

The concept of family is universal – and life in a real family can be more dramatic than any soap opera.

Scripps Ranch Theatre is rehearsing a co-production with Common Ground Theatre in preparation for the staging of a performance that will highlight intricate relationships and conflicts between three generations of one family – family members cooking together for a special occasion in a small space. It’s a recipe for high drama and outrageous revelations.

“Stew,” a play with a rapidly moving script, will run at Scripps Ranch Theatre from April 5 to April 21

By all indications, those involved are pulling out all the stops to produce a highly relatable performance spanning all cultures. The play promises to have drama, emotion, strong dialogue and a detailed set with more props than usual.

“The themes are about multi-generational connections and family legacy. It’s about a day in the life of a family,” said Yolanda Marie Franklin, “Stew” director from Common Ground Theatre.

“No matter who you are, you’ll see a piece of yourself,” Franklin said. “That’s why I want people to come out. I want them to see how we do this in real time. How do we talk about difficult things that are difficult to talk about with each other?”

SR AUTHOR

Continued from Page 12

ultuous time when women’s health is once again being scrutinized by the courts rather than being decided upon by a woman in conjunction with her doctor.”

She explained that it takes a normal event to get people to relate to a play such as this, and then the drama unfolds.

“There are some extraordinary circumstances – or some drama that happens –that keeps you intrigued.” she said. “So, we’re showing what happens when your family comes back home when there are secrets that lie underneath that everyone is holding.”

This a peek into an African American family on a day when everyone arrives for an important anniversary in the city of Mt. Vernon, Va. Three generations of women crowd into the kitchen to help. Secrets are revealed as they try to cook the stew all day.

“It’s like stew. Stuff comes

Misner was a professor at the University of Minnesota for 15 years. In 1987, she and her husband sold their home, resigned from their respective work lives, purchased a 50 foot sailboat and began a sailing adventure that lasted 6 1/2 years. Follow-

bubbling to the top. What the stew represents is the stability that Mama is trying to hold onto throughout the whole play,” Franklin said. “The things that arise are the dramas and secrets and revelations. And how do we navigate through that? But then there’s love. It’s all love. That’s what you’ll get with this.”

Mama Tucker is an empty nester but well-known in her community. She is up early preparing a stew to take to a special event as her children arrive to help.

“We get to see these three generations of women come together and have life happening right in front of us,” Franklin said.

Mama is portrayed by Alyce Smith Cooper. Lil’

ing that adventure, Misner wrote her memoir about their experiences titled “No More Mondays – a nautical odyssey.”

The “Pig Farmer’s Wife” is Misner’s sixth published book, and is available in bookstores and on Amazon.

of Tri-County

Say hello to Mr. Handyman® & goodbye to that “to-do” list!

What can our Home Improvement Professionals do for you?

Regardless of the

Expert Handyman Services Near You

our Neighborly Done Right Promise.

Jamaelya Hines and Danielle Bunch perform in the Scripps Ranch Theatre production of “Stew.” (photo by Ken Jacques)

Free oboe/piano concert at library

The “Pleasure of Your Company” music series will welcome oboist Emilia LopezYañez and pianist Ruth Hertz Weber on Sunday, April 21, at 2:30 p.m. in the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center. Attend for a delightful afternoon of Romantic and contemporary favorites for oboe and piano.

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 re-

quired at this time.

Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center is located at 10301 Scripps Lake Drive. It should be noted that, due to a parking lot expansion project, onsite parking is currently somewhat limited. Overflow parking is available on Meanley Drive off Scripps Ranch Boulevard, from which the library can be easily accessed via a scenic, paved walkway (map and directions: www.srfol.org/ lib-loc-hours.htm). Visit www. srfol.org or call (858) 538-8158 for information.

directed

SCRIPPS RANCH FARMER’S MARKET

The fascinating world of mushrooms

By John Gregory

Most people think of mushrooms as a spore-bearing fungus in a dark forest growing into a bulbous shape. Edible mushrooms are often thought of as a mostly tasteless item that can be sauteed and added to meat dishes. Others are known as poisonous or hallucinogenic. But mushrooms are so much more.

Now, visitors to the Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market and Family Festival can learn all about mushrooms and purchase them beginning March 21 as the Pop Cosmic Mushrooms booth will make its first appearance.

Katie Serbian, along with her partner Matt Koshak, started growing mushrooms as a profession about one year ago at Serbian’s property in Valley Center. She purchased the land and said one of her goals was to have the property provide an income – possibly by sustaining a crop.

she said. “We can have a mushroom farm and we can provide really good, high quality mushrooms for people to eat, and then we can also provide the functional mushrooms – the nootropic mushrooms – for people’s health and wellbeing.”

‘We can also provide the functional mushrooms ... for people’s health and wellbeing.’

—Katie Serbian

“When I started growing mushrooms as a hobby, I really, really fell in love with it,” Serbian said.

“I started researching more about how certain mushrooms are so good for your health. Some people refer to them as functional mushrooms or nootropic mushrooms. I got deeper and deeper into this dive on this research of mushrooms and I thought this is the thing that the property could do,”

Continued from Page 13

Mama, a girl in her preteens, is played by Jamaelya Hines. Lillian, a daughter in her 30s, is played by Danielle Bunch. Jodi Marks plays Nelly. The play will be mostly set in a kitchen, but the set also features a staircase that goes to a second floor. Besides the kitchen and staircase, the action will take place in the dining room and even outside of the house. There will be the illusion of going into the living room, Frank-

Their Pop Cosmic Mushrooms booth at the Farmer’s Market will offer edible mushrooms as well as products for health. In addition, the booth will offer recipe cards and information about the benefits of mushrooms.

“We’ll have a variety of culinary mushrooms for sale by the pound. We will also have some tinctures that we make here from our functional mushrooms that help with stress relief; inflammation,” Serbian said.

Customers interested in the subject will have the chance to grow their own.

“Hopefully, we’ll have our mushroom grow kits. So, you could take a kit home and grow mushrooms yourself,” she said.

lin said, adding, “We’ll use stage magic.”

Leave no doubt, “Stew” is based on realism.

“It’s a very prop-heavy play and it has a lot of food. … We’ll have running water. We’ll have tea kettles that are going off,” Franklin said. “We have (the actors) talking over each other while dealing with a lot of props because there’s cooking through the entire thing. So, we’re going to have real food and you’ll smell real stew cooking.”

The secret is that there will be pumps and electronics hidden in the background,

Asking questions during a visit to the Pop Cosmic Mushrooms booth will turn into an incredible learning experience. There is so much that most do not know about mushrooms. For instance, mushrooms on the farm are grown inside a building with a monitored hydration system. Mushrooms are grown on wood pellets using soy hull, which is the shell of the soybean. The cell walls of mushrooms are more similar to crustaceans than to plants. Lion’s mane mushrooms are good at protecting the brain against Alzheimer’s disease. The tincture sold by Pop Cosmic Mushrooms is extracted using sonication methods. The best way to store mushrooms is in the open air, such as in a paper bag.

Visit the Pop Cosmic Mushrooms booth at the Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market and Family Festival, held from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. each Thursday at 10045 Carroll Canyon Road.

Franklin explained. In addition, she credited an excellent stage crew. The set designer is John Spafford. The prop designer is Duane McGregor. Lighting design is by Deana Trethewey. The sound supervisor is Ted Leib; and costume design is by Cassandra Crawford.

The production of “Stew” will be held on the campus of Alliant International University. Visit scrippsranchtheatre.org. Purchase tickets online at scrippsranchtheatre.org/tickets or contact SRT Patron Services at (858) 395-0573.

Scripps Ranch News | March

Emilia Lopez-Yañez (left) and Ruth Hertz Weber will perform live April 21 in the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center.

Matt Koshak holds lion’s mane and pearl oyster mushrooms. (courtesy of Pop Cosmic Mushrooms)

Coach Chris Lamb, entering his 11th year as head coach of the Scripps Ranch High School (SRHS) varsity baseball team, could not be happier as the early season progresses. His players are not only talented, they have great character.

“They do have that scrappiness to them. That’s just how we play the game. We have such strong character,” he said. “This is such a great group of kids. It’s fun to get to practice every day and banter with them and have fun.”

In addition, the team has determination to win.

“You know you’re going to get some good effort and you’re going to compete. We’re going to win some games. There’s no doubt about that,” Lamb said. “They battle. They compete. It’s a tough group. There’s a will to win. There is a large number of seniors on the roster. They do their best in keeping their focus on leaving high school as winners.”

Top seniors

Four of his seniors are headed to play college ball.

Cayden Gonzalez is a lefthanded hitting catcher heading to the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs campus, to play Division 2 baseball.

“He works the bat well; receives well; is good with our pitching staff; throws out runners; kind of shuts down the running game,” Lamb said.

Pitcher and third baseman Jordan Green is expected to play at Point Loma Nazarene

University.

“Jordan Green does it all for us. He plays third base; is our number 1 pitcher on the mound. He’s our number 3 hitter. In his career at Scripps, he’s played center field, he’s played right field, he’s played second, he’s played short, he’s played third and he’s pitched. Really, just about anywhere we’d place Jordan, we could,” Lamb said. “If you have a

team of nine Jordan Greens, you’re going to win a lot of baseball games. On top of that, he’s a really good kid.”

Senior Ryan Ham is the team’s shortstop. He’s expected to play at U.C. Irvine.

“He’s really our defensive leader. He’s our lead-off hitter, gets on base a ton, steals a bunch of bases,” Lamb said.

“He’s also our closer on the mound. He’s a special one for

The Marshall Middle School girls soccer team won the San Diego Unified School District 2024 Western League Championship with a 2-1 victory against Longfellow K-8 in the rain to complete an undefeated season.

This was an amazing season with incredible players on the Marshall team, by all accounts. Looks like these players will enjoy success as they proceed to high school.

The fourth-seeded Marshall Middle School team first defeated fifth-seeded Pershing in the playoffs. Then the team upset first-seeded Pacific Beach Middle School in the Semifinal round before defeating third-seeded Longfellow in the Championship match.

Jake Sakurauchi fires a pitch during an 8-5 victory against Poway High on March 8. (photo by Jim Wick)

SPRING SPORTS GET UNDERWAY

Spring sports seasons in Scripps Ranch got underway with intense action as winter sports post-season playoffs wound down.

ON THE RUN: Stephen Bousquet of Scripps Ranch High races against San Marcos High in action during a close 8-7 mens lacrosse victory on Feb. 28. (photo by Jim Wick)

The Scripps Ranch High School roller hockey team, under the direction of coach Greg Freidman, captured the 2024 CIF-San Diego Section Metro Championship by defeating Westview High with a score of 6-2 on March 11. (photo by Jim Wick)

LONG STRETCH: SRHS senior Tyler Luke stretches for a return against Patrick Henry High in an 8-8 tennis match on March 7. (photo by Jim Wick)

POWER KICK: McKenna Durkin of Scripps Ranch High strikes the ball in a 1-2 overtime loss against Helix High in the first round of the 2024 CIF-SDS Girls Soccer Championships Division 2 on Feb. 15. (photo by Jim Wick)

BASEBALL TEAM

Continued from Page 15

sure.”

Senior second baseman Daniel Herrera is planning to play at the University of Charleston, West Virginia.

“He’s been our second baseman for the last two years, but he’s dealing with a back issue right now that’s keeping him out of the line-up.

So, we’re hopeful that he comes back soon. I think he’s progressing the right way,” Lamb said, adding that he estimates Herrera will return by the end of March.

“He carries a big bat. Not a big kid by any means, but he can swing it. He plays a great second base, but absolutely just competes and is a big force in our line-up when we have him in there.”

Another senior is Daniel Lee, the team’s number 4 hitter.

“He’s going to go to a high academic school, we just don’t know where yet,” Lamb said. “He could play at the next level. It’s really going to be based off of where he goes to school and if there’s a need for a big right-handed hitting player with power. I assume most people would take that.

So, we’re just seeing where he’s going to end up because

it’s going to be such a high academic place.”

More standouts

Outfielder Jesse Dawson is a sophomore who is really hitting well right now.

“He’s playing the outfield (but he’s) probably more of an infielder. He’s filling a spot for us right now,” Lamb said. “He’s really just hitting the cover off the ball. Not intimidated at all being his first trip on varsity. He’s just really doing everything we’ve asked of him, and more. He’s also pitched for us a little.”

Junior pitcher Jake Sakurauchi is another standout.

“Jake is a pitcher who fills up the strike zone, gets after guys and keeps kids off balance,” Lamb said.

Then there is right-handed pitcher Jack Gerardi, the team’s number 2 pitcher.

“He’s really solidified our starting rotation,” Lamb said. “He had a solid start against Canyon Crest; went five innings and had six strikeouts. He’s another kid who really fills up the strike zone; works his pitches well.”

The Falcons began season preparations with tryouts and practices in mid-February. The team started competition with a dominant 14-1 victory against Canyon Crest

Academy on Feb. 28. Then lost two close games; one 2-4 loss against Patrick Henry High on March 1, and a 2-3 defeat against Point Loma High on March 4. But Lamb said he felt his team outplayed the opponents in both these losses. SRHS had a convincing 8-5 victory against Poway High on March 8.

The Falcons are competing in the Eastern League and their most powerful opponent will be Coronado, which has excellent pitching. Scripps Ranch will host Coronado on April 24; then travel to Coronado for a game on April 26. Mira Mesa High and Scripps Ranch did not compete against each other in baseball for a few years, but the rivalry will be restored as the Falcons host the Marauders on April 10 and play at Mira Mesa on April 12.

Beyond competing on the diamond, the Falcons players are involved in the community.

“Our whole program works with the Scripps Ranch Little League Challenger team. … We just had a Little League clinic not too long ago,” Lamb said. “It’s a group of kids that are good on and off the field, and we’re going to compete and make Scripps Ranch proud.”

CONCENTRATION: Naomi Shadburn focuses on the ball during a Scripps Ranch Softball Association preseason instruction session as San Diego State University softball players Allie Light and Cali Decker helped with training. (photo by Lisa Shadburn)

CONTACT: SRHS sophomore Ella Satterly watches the ball sail after making contact in an 18-1 victory against San Dieguito Academy on March 1. (photo by Jim Wick)

FIRE POWER: Scripps Ranch High volleyball player Jett Reyes blasts a serve toward Helix High opponents as the Falcons won 3-1 on March 5. (photo by Jim Wick)

WOR DS&P I CTU R E S

RANCHO PEÑASQUITOS

Nrityagram and Chitrasena Dance

The Nrityagram Dance Ensemble, together with the Chitrasena Dance Company, will make their San Diego debuts presented by La Jolla Music Society for two nights in The Baker-Baum Concert Hall at The Conrad in La Jolla on March 20 and 21.

In a cultural dialogue delivered through movement and music, these two worldrenowned dance companies present a fusion of classical and cultural dance, diving deep into historical and

between the distinct dance traditions and movement vocabularies of each country, in the second cross-cultural collaboration between these two acclaimed companies.

More than a dance company, Nrityagram was founded as a school devoted to Indian dance. The all-female ensemble’s daily life of intensive training and meditation brings to the stage compelling captivating performances that are at once sensual and lyrical, accompanied by live music.

including an annual tour to the United States.

Founded by Guru Chitrasena in 1943, the Chitrasena Dance Company has always been at the fore front of transforming the traditional arts landscape of Sri Lanka. Chitrasena is recognized for rescuing the traditional dances that were confined to village settings and presenting them to audiences in Sri Lanka and across the world. Today the dance school and company continue to forge new paths

The Nrityagram Dance Ensemble and the Chitrasena Dance Company will perform in The Baker-Baum

Concert Hall at The Conrad in La Jolla on March 20 and 21.

FLAG FOOTBALL

ACTION

Young players participating in the NFL Flag San Diego flag football league enjoy the action during a game between the Bills and the Titans in the 3-4 grade division championship at Meadowbrook Middle School on Feb. 9. The Bills were victorious. (photo by Lisa Shadburn)

FLYING HIGH

A very acrobatic canine pet named Jasmine enjoyed the warmer springtime weather as she gleefully leaped for her ball in her backyard during a recent fun off-leash play session in Scripps Ranch. (photo by Lisa Shadburn)

MARDI GRAS FUN

Performers dazzle the crowd during SeaWorld San Diego’s Mardi Gras high energy celebration on Feb. 10. (photo by Lisa Shadburn)

MARCH 20

Seven Seas Food Festival

SeaWorld San Diego’s Seven Seas Food Festival returns with an array of flavors for guests to sip and savor. This seasonal event runs on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, now through April 28. Guests will taste flavors from around the world while strolling between award-winning attractions and animal presentations. Food enthusiasts and families will discover a gastronomic journey at food locations scattered throughout the park, highlighting delicacies inspired by German, Asian, Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine. SeaWorldSanDiego.com/

7Seas

Theatre Month

Performing Arts Organizations Unite for San Diego Theatre Month, March 2024. For the 9th year in a row, dozens of San Diego performing arts organizations will offer value-priced tickets throughout the County. “The goal of Theatre Month is to get you to a seat and enjoy what San Diego has to offer,” says Jay Henslee, president of the San Diego Performing Arts League. For Theatre Month 2024, all tickets will be offered at discounted rates. The goal is to simplify ticket purchasing for all participating events by using one website. sandiegotheatremonth. com

MARCH 24

Poway Symphony Orchestra Concert

The Poway Symphony Orchestra’s first performance of 2024 will be a 20th Anniversary Celebration

Concert featuring orchestral masterpieces from the 19th and 20th centuries. The concert will take place March 24 at 4 p.m. in the Poway Center for Performing Arts. The program includes the dramatic and ever-popular Scheherazade by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, the bright and exciting Slavonic Dance No 8, Op 46 by Antonin Dvořák and a rare performance of the powerful Sinfonia Sacra by Andrzej Panufnik. Following the concert, attendees are invited to a casual reception in the lobby to meet the maestro and musicians.

powaysymphonyorchestra.org

Pop Warner Free Football & Cheer Clinic

The Scripps Ranch Pop Warner Free Football & Cheer Training Clinic is happening at Scripps Ranch High School on Sunday, March 24, 2-4 p.m. This is for football and cheer for ages 5-14 interested in joining the league this fall. Players must register online to join the training clinic:

forms.gle/aU64o5z5yWiEXLkp8

Padres Celebrity Softball game

The San Diego Padres announced the celebrity roster that will participate in the club’s inaugural San Diego Celebrity Softball Game as part of the 2024 Padres FanFest presented by SeatGeek. The game, scheduled for 3:30-5:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 24, will take place on the playing field and will serve as the finale of Padres FanFest. The game will showcase two squads, with Padres alumni Trevor Hoffman and Tony Gwynn Jr. serving as the opposing team managers. Featured celebrities include retired NFL Super Bowl winning quarterback Drew Brees, professional soccer superstar Landon Donovan, comedian Kyle Mooney, surfing champion Rob Machado, along with Padres alumni Randy Jones, Mark Loretta and Steve Finley.

padres.com/fanfest

MARCH 29

‘I Love you Because’ Trinity Theatre Company presents “I Love You Because,” March 29-April 21, at Trinity Theatre in Mission Valley, 1640 Camino Del Rio North, Suite 129. “I Love You Because” is a modern love story told through the eyes of four New Yorkers as they navigate the minefield of love in a big city. After two disastrous breakups, Marcy and Austin find themselves working together to reunite Austin with his girlfriend, but naturally, things don’t go as planned.

trinityttc.org

MARCH 30

Back to the Garden Experience the musical magic of the Golden State with “California Dreaming: Back To The Garden Story Concert” as the band brings together the timeless songs of legendary artists such as the Beach Boys; Jefferson Airplane; Crosby, Stills & Nash; Tom Petty and many more. The “California Dreaming: Back To The Garden Story Concert” promises an epic musical journey. Feel the warmth of the sun, smell the ocean breeze, and let the melodies carry you away to a time when the music was an expression of freedom, love, and endless possibilities. At the Poway Center for the Performing Arts. powayonstage.org

‘Threaded Journeys’

In the exhibition “Shirin Towfiq: Threaded Journeys,” interdisciplinary artist Shirin Towfiq explores ways to express her experience as a second-generation Iranian refugee through folk art, lore and craft. She draws parallels between the Persian magic carpet and its ability to transport people with incredible speed and the travels of many migrants, which often feel abrupt and disjointed. Tow-

The

Diego Unified School District Visual and Performing Arts program held a District Choral Showcase on Feb. 22 featuring eight San Diego area choirs performing at the Patrick Henry Arts, Media and Entertainment Center. Choirs from two Scripps Ranch

Dingeman Elementary School and

shall Middle School, participated in the event. (photo by Lisa Shadburn)

fiq creates her own interpretations of the magic carpet, embedding them with references to home and belonging; freedom and the feeling of being uprooted; and the intricacies of identities constructed around these journeys. March 30-Aug. 11, Mingei International Museum, Balboa Park.

APRIL 6

‘Closer Than Ever’

Bodhi Tree Concerts’ 13th season continues with the

cult classic “Closer Than Ever,” a musical revue in two acts with words by Richard Maltby, Jr., and music by David Shire. Performances are April 6 and 7 at the La Jolla Community Center, 6811 La Jolla Blvd. “Closer Than Ever” is a musical exploration of everyday struggles in the modern world, from unrequited adoration to aging and marriage to dating again, all tackled with resounding sincerity and precisely placed hilarity. bodhitreeconcerts.org

PHOTO: STEVE MURDOCK