San Diego, CA
Community events in San Diego County: From Children’s Book Party to Jobapalooza festival
CARLSBAD
Earth Day Plant Sale
The Carlsbad Garden Club will host a plant sale at Plaza Paseo Real, 6965 El Camino Real, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 26 in the upper courtyard next to LaCosta Coffee Roasting. The sale includes potted flowers, succulents and many other plant varieties. Proceeds support Carlsbad schools’ garden programs and student scholarships.
Genealogists put on free seminar
The North San Diego Genealogical Society will put on its annual Spring Seminar from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. April 26 virtually via Zoom. Society members will present “Cornucopia: My Favorite Research Journeys” case studies illustrating a variety of research problems. Admission is fee. The registration deadline is April 23 at nsdcgs.org.
Flower Fields at peak bloom
The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch are in peak bloom with 55 acres of giant tecolote ranunculuses. There are a number of attractions including an exhibit by artist Alex Heveri, “Glass in Flight.” The exhibit includes more than three dozen glass and steel sculptures of butterflies, dragonflies and insects. The exhibit inspired this year’s theme at The Flower Fields, “Where Color Takes Flight.” Tickets must be purchased online in advance and are $27; $25 for seniors, $17 for children 3-10 and free for kids younger than 3. Visit theflowerfields.com.
Local genealogy buffs gather
The North San Diego County Genealogical Society will meet from 10 to 11:30 a.m. April 22 at City of Carlsbad Faraday Center, 1635 Faraday Center. The speaker, Lisa Medina, will give a presentation on “Your Personal Tour: Creating a Locality Guide.” Admission is free; no registration required. To attend via Zoom, visit nsdcgs.org.
Rep. Levin to speak at Democratic Club
The Democratic Club of Carlsbad and Oceanside meets from 9 to 11 a.m. April 26 at 2375 Camino Vida Roble, Suite A. The speaker will be U.S. Rep. Mike Levin, D-San Juan Capistrano, who will give a “National State of Affairs Update.” RSVP at 951-970-0372. Visit demcco.org.
Community Easter celebration at Flower Fields
The annual Flower Fields Easter Sunrise Service is at 6:30 a.m. April 20 amid the blooming ranunculuses at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch, 5704 Paseo del Norte. There will be live music, singing, an Easter message of hope and renewal along with breakfast, while supplies last. The celebration is hosted by The Fields Church. Visit thefieldschurch.org/easter.
CHULA VISTA
Prescription Drug Take Back Day
The 28th semiannual National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 26 at the John Lippitt Public Works Center, 1800 Maxwell Road, hosted by the Chula Vista Office of Sustainability, Chula Vista Police Department and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The free event is open to all, and participants can drop off unwanted, unused or expired prescription drugs for safe disposal. Prescription pills (including for pets) and patches are acceptable for disposal. Needles and liquids will not be accepted. No reservations are required, and disposals are anonymous. Visit chulavistaca.gov.
EL CAJON
Olaf Wieghorst Day
The Olaf Wieghorst Museum will put on a celebration of “Olaf Wieghorst Day” from 3 to 6 p.m. April 30 to mark the Danish American artist’s birthday in 1899 and the grand opening of the museum showing his works in 2000. The event will be at the museum, 131 Rea Ave. Refreshments will be served. Admission is free. Visit wieghorstmuseum.org/event/olaf-wieghorst-day.
ESCONDIDO
Del Dios community pancake breakfast
The Community of Del Dios will hold a pancake breakfast from 8 to 11 a.m. April 27 at the Del Dios Community Center (the Old Firehouse), 20155 Elm Lane, on the shores of Lake Hodges. The event features an “all you can eat” breakfast with pancakes, eggs, sausage, kielbasa, ham, homemade beans, homemade salsa, orange juice, fruit salad and coffee or tea. Cost is $10; $4 for children younger than 12. The Community of Del Dios has been serving a twice-a-year breakfast for more than 40 years. Visitors can see the “Hodgee Monster” sculpture. Proceeds support local Del Dios/Mount Israel fire prevention, ecological preservation, community center maintenance and restoration of the community’s 1935 fire engine.
Assistance League Open House
The Assistance League Inland North County holds a May Day Open House fundraiser from 4 to 7 p.m. May 1 at 2068 E. Valley Parkway. Highlights include a thrift shop tour, light refreshments, an overview of philanthropic programs and raffles along with a silent auction. Visit assistanceleague.org/inland-north-county.
Library holds book sale
The Friends of the Escondido Library bookstore is holding its monthly half-price sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 25-26 at the library, 239 S. Kalmia St. All items in the store will be 50% off (25-cent minimum), including a wide variety of fiction, nonfiction, collectors books, and DVDs and CDs along with an extensive children’s section. Call 760-839-4832. Visit library.escondido.org.
JULIAN
Wildflower Show at clubhouse
The Julian Woman’s Club will host the 99th annual Wildflower Show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 2-3 in the Woman’s Clubhouse, 2607 C St. The show features wildflowers from seven regions in and around Julian. Various flowering species that grow in the area will be displayed along with artwork from local students. There will be handcrafted items for sale, including a quilt made by club members to be raffled off in the opportunity drawing. Admission is free. Donations are appreciated. Proceeds go to the club’s scholarship fund and the community. Visit julianwomansclub.org.
Celebration of 250th anniversary American Revolution
A Revolution in the Orchard event to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the battles of Lexington and Concord, which marked the start of the American War of Independence, will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 26-27 at Julian Farm and Orchard, 4381 Julian Highway. Volunteer historians and re-enactors will share living history of the American War of Independence (1775-1783) through battle re-enactments with muskets and cannons. The family-friendly event features dozens of historical interpreters representing soldiers and civilians of the American Revolution, giving demonstrations of daily and military life. Meet Gen. George Washington and other historical figures. Join the Colonial militia and learn how to march with the Colonial militia. Local merchants and 18th-century re-enacters will sell goods and crafts along with food. Cost is $10 per person over the age of 3. Tickets are on-site and at julianfarmandorchard.com/revolution-in-the-orchard.
Volunteers sought to clear trails
Cuyamaca Rancho State Park’s trails maintenance volunteer unit is looking for volunteers to help with trail maintenance in Cuyamaca. The group clears trails of brush and fallen tree branches and works on grading on over 80 miles of park trails. Work party days are four hours on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. Contact the volunteer coordinator at cmcurtis@pacbell.net or 858-278-3280.
LA JOLLA
Concours d’Elegance car show
The La Jolla Concours d’Elegance runs April 25-27 featuring culinary creations from 20 of San Diego’s top restaurants and a display of more than 120 classic cars. Friday’s VIP Opening Soirée, “Beyond the Barn: A Gilded Journey to Restoration,” is from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. April 25 on the Concours lawn at Ellen Browning Scripps Park, 1100 Coast Blvd. The La Jolla Concours Tour d’Elegance from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and the Porsches & Power on Prospect event from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. April 26 are free for spectators. Sunday’s grand event at The La Jolla Concours d’Elegance is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. General admission tickets are $119; VIP are $429 (and increase on April 20). Visit lajollaconcours.com.
LAKE HODGES
Earth Day cleanup
A Lake Hodges community cleanup is from 9:30 to 11 a.m. April 27. Meet at Lake Hodges Visitor Center Parking Lot, 20102 Lake Drive. Join volunteers cleaning up litter and debris around the lake, hiking trails and public areas, and participate in discussions on sustainability and protecting the environment. Reusable gloves, trash bags, grabber tools, hand sanitizer, sunscreen and water will be provided. Visit secure.givelively.org/event/friends-of-lake-hodges/earth-day-with-friends-of-lake-hodges.
LAKESIDE
Western Day Parade
The 60th annual Western Day Parade takes off at 9:35 a.m. April 26 from Woodside Avenue and heads to Maine Avenue with marching bands, floats, decorated vehicles, classic cars and other participants. The parade will honor hometown heroes. Visit lakesidechamber.org/western-days-parade.
Library holds book sale
The Lakeside Friends of the Library Bookstore will be having a Buy One, Get One Free sale on books and puzzles April 21-26 at 12428 Woodside Ave. Hours are from 11 to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday. Proceeds support library programs.
Reading of ‘Letters From an American’
A reading of Heather Cox Richardson’s “Letters From an American” is at 3 p.m. Wednesdays at the Lakeside branch of the San Diego County Library, 12428 Woodside Ave. The reading is done in the context of the U.S. Constitution and is free and open to the public. Email questions to bkindbstrong@gmail.com.
LA MESA
Courtesy California Note Catchers
The California Note Catchers, a nonprofit women’s a cappella chorus, holds rehearsals every Monday. (California Note Catchers)
Chorus marks 30th anniversary
The California Note Catchers, a nonprofit women’s a cappella chorus that sings four-part harmony, marks its 30th anniversary this year. The chorus was started by a group of women in East County and Chula Vista in 1995 and performs throughout the San Diego area at community venues, retirement homes, hospital rehab facilities and service club events. The chorus recently held Harmony Awareness Week. As part of the community event, the group invited women of all ages to join its Monday night rehearsal at the La Mesa First United Methodist Church. The mission of the chorus, which is under the umbrella of Harmony Inc., is to preserve the uniquely American style of music that the chorus calls barbershop, by “nurturing it and teaching it to current and future generations.” The chorus motto is “Come for the singing and stay for the friendship.” Rehearsals are every Monday. The chorus will perform a Spring Sing concert at 3 p.m. May 18 at Liberty Hall Theatre in Paradise Village, 2700 E. Fourth St., National City. Donations are accepted at the door. Visit californianotecatchers.com.
Taste of La Mesa Village
The La Mesa Village Association will put on its first Taste of La Mesa Village from 5 to 8 p.m. April 24 in downtown La Mesa along La Mesa Boulevard. Ticket holders can enjoy tastings from a variety of local restaurants offering signature dishes along with sip stops serving local craft beer, wines and other drinks. A “Passport” voucher will guide visitors. Advance tickets are $45, including food, alcoholic drinks and nonalcoholic beverages, or $35, including food and nonalcoholic beverages. Event day tickets are an additional $10. Tickets are at tasteoflamesavillage.com.
Parkinson’s Support Group meets
The East County Parkinson’s Support Group meets from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. April 23 at the United Church of Christ of La Mesa, 5940 Kelton Ave. The event is aimed at people with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners, friends and family. There will be educational information and fun activities. For questions, email altamura13@myyhoo.com.
Earth Day Fair
An Earth Dair Fair featuring eco-friendly vendors, a kids zone, a bounce house and activities to learn how to care for the planet will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 19 at MacArthur Park, 4900 Memorial Drive. Bring your bicycles. The festival will feature bicycle activities and helmet giveaways along with a fix-it clinic. Admission is free. Visit cityoflamesa.us/Calendar.aspx?EID=8411.
LEMON GROVE
Arbor and Earth Day resource fair
A community resource fair to celebrate Earth Day and Arbor Day is from 9 a.m. to noon April 26 at Treganza Heritage Park, 3200 Main St. There will be music, information booths with resources about health, fitness and protecting the environment, a kids zone and fitness classes along with food for sale. Admission is free. Visit lemongrove.ca.gov/parks-events.
OCEANSIDE
Asian and Pacific Islander festival
The Southern California Asian and Pacific Islander festival is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 26 at the Oceanside Civic Center Plaza and Pier View Way. The free community event celebrates the heritage of more than 20 Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander cultures through traditional and contemporary performances led by local artists. Highlights include art exhibits, hands-on cultural activities, a health and wellness area, a martial arts arena and live mural painting along with food. Visit apifestival.com.
Earth Day Community event
A family-friendly neighborhood cleanup is from 9 a.m. to noon April 26 at Alamosa Park as part of the annual Creek to Bay Cleanup. Join the Oceanside Green Team for the volunteer event that includes educational booths, music, kids activities and games. Visit ci.oceanside.ca.us/government/water-utilities/environmental-services-programs/green-oceanside/earth-month.
Learning is for Everyone group meets
The Learning is for Everyone group, aka LIFE, at MiraCosta College meets at 1 p.m. April 25 in Building 1000’s Conference Room at MiraCosta’s Oceanside Campus, 1 Barnard Drive. A presentation on the Surfrider Foundation at 1 p.m. will be led by Janis Selby Jones. At 2:30 p.m., Lyford Rome, NASA solar system ambassador, will discuss, “The Hubble Anniversary.” Admission is free. Visit miracosta.edu/life.
Art museum features community exhibit
The nonprofit Oceanside Museum of Art opens an exhibit April 26 on “Tsikuris” or God’s Eyes, “sacred spiritual objects crafted from brightly colored yarn, symbolizing protection and spiritual connection.” The works were created during community workshops for all ages at the museum. Each Tsikuri tells a story, with layers of color representing the years of life. The art is rooted in the traditions of the Huichol people. The exhibit, curated by Natalie Gonzalez, runs through Sept. 21. Visit oma-online.org.
Surf museum holds book launch
The California Surf Museum holds a book launch at 6:30 p.m. April 23 for “Surfer Stories: 12 Untold Stories by 12 Writers” about 12 of the world’s greatest surfers by Claudia Lebenthal. Doors open at 6 p.m. General admission is $10; $5 for California Surf Museum members. Pre-purchase a book ($40) at 760-721-6876 and get free admission.
Retired teachers meet April 29
The local California Retired Teachers, Division 45 is having a general meeting at 10:30 a.m. April 29 at the Broken Yolk Cafe, 2434 Vista Way. The speaker is Linda Nelson, who will discuss the Stewart Indian School in Nevada. Reservations are due by April 24 at calrtalunchreserve@gmail.com or 760-729-6185.
POINT LOMA
Chorale sings Brahms’ Requiem
The San Diego Master Chorale presents Brahms’ Requiem, a choral work of solace and reflection, at 4 p.m. April 26-27 at Point Loma Community Presbyterian Church, 2128 Chatsworth Blvd. The concert will be conducted by music director John K. Russell. Tickets are $30, $25 for seniors and military, $15 for students and free for children under age 12 at sdmasterchorale.org/brahms-requiem.
Parkinson’s Support Group meets
The Point Loma Parkinson’s Support Group will hold its monthly meeting from 10 a.m. to noon April 22 at Point Loma Cafe, 4865 N. Harbor Drive, to “Meet, Greet and Eat.” There will be a no-host brunch and open discussion group for people with Parkinson’s and care partners. Reserve at doloresviolacohenour@gmail.com.
POWAY
Interfaith gathering for peace
The Poway Interfaith Team hosts a Gathering for Prayers and Peace from 3 to 5 p.m. May 4 at St. Bartholomew Episcopal Church, 16275 Pomerado Road. The theme is “The Essence of Prayer: Insights Through Interfaith.” The event celebrates the practices of diverse faith traditions and brings the community together to focus on peace. Representatives from spiritual traditions such as Baha’i, Buddhist, Catholic, Hindu, Islam, Judaism, New Thought and Sikh will speak about how prayer is used in their tradition, what is the expectation of the one praying, to whom they pray and for what do they pray. Each faith leader will offer a prayer for peace, both inner peace and peace in the world. A collective prayer will be read at the end of the gathering. For questions, email myingalls@yahoo.com.
RAMONA
Earth Day Festival
The fourth annual Ramona Earth Day Festival is from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 26 at Regent Ranch, 18528 Highland Valley Road, hosted by Sustainable Ramona. Highlights include exhibitors and speakers, entertainment, including bands and folklorico dancers, children’s activities and food trucks. Visit sustainableramona.com.
RANCHO BERNARDO
Taste of Oasis
The San Diego Oasis, a nonprofit that provides educational and fitness programs for older adults, will hold its free Taste of Oasis from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 25 at San Diego Oasis, 17170 Bernardo Center Drive. The event includes fitness demonstrations and instructor presentations for lifelong learning programs and other classes along with free food and opportunity drawings. No registration. Visit san-diego.oasisnet.org.
Aviara Trio to give concert
The Aviara Trio will perform a free concert at 6 p.m. April 22 in the Rancho Bernardo Library’s second-floor community room, 17110 Bernardo Center Drive. The concert will feature violinist Rob Schumitzky, cellist Erin Breene and pianist Ines Irawati. Schumitzky will perform on the “Ex-Halir” Stradivarius violin made in 1694. The program will include works by Piazzolla, Brahms and Turina. The concert is part of the Friends of the Rancho Bernardo Library’s 24th annual Chamber Concert series. Donations are appreciated. Visit friendsoftherblibrary.org.
Drive-thru collection of baby supplies
Rancho Bernardo Community Presbyterian Church will hold a drive-thru collection of supplies for infants and toddlers from 9 to 11 a.m. April 26 at 17010 Pomerado Road. Items needed include diapers of all sizes (except newborn), wipes, shampoo, baby towels and wash cloths, pajamas, baby blankets and crib sheets, baby powder, bottles, formula, baby food and crackers. Donations will be given to families served by Supporting the Enlisted Project (STEP), Interfaith Community Services, San Diego Rescue Mission and New Day Urban Ministries. Visit rbcommunity.org.
SAN DIEGO
Children’s Book Party
The 41st annual communitywide Children’s Book Party is from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. April 26 at the Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park. The free event, hosted by read4thefuture, was started by Roosevelt Brown in 1984 and features free new books for children along with entertainment and refreshments. The emcee is Jamarr Brown. The goal is to foster a love of reading and help children build their own home library. For questions, call 619-266-4188.
Donut Run benefits Down syndrome community
GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego, a Down syndrome achievement center, will host its annual Donut Run 5K from 8 a.m. to noon April 27 at Crown Point Shores North, 700 Corona Oriente Road. The event helps GiGi’s Playhouse continue its mission of providing free educational, therapeutic and career programs for community members with Down syndrome of all ages. Cost is $55; $45 for children ages 2-17; free for kids age 2 and younger; $21 for anyone with Down syndrome. Register at gigisplayhouse.org/sandiego/san-diego-donut-run.
Midway Museum holds Vietnam War commemoration
The USS Midway Museum will hold a commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of Operation Frequent Wind and the Fall of Saigon from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 27 at the USS Midway Museum, 910 N. Harbor Drive. The event will be a tribute honoring the courage of those involved in this historic Vietnam mission. The livestream of the event will be on the USS Midway Museum’s Facebook page. Visit midway.org.
Bonsai show in Balboa Park
The 60th annual Fall Bonsai Show and Sale of the San Diego Bonsai Club will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 26 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 27 in Room 101 of Balboa Park’s Casa del Prado Building. The free event features more than 50 unique bonsai of various sizes and species along with bonsai demonstrations. There will be a table sale featuring hundreds of trees, pots and other bonsai items. Visit sandiegobonsaiclub.com.
Multi-Cultural Earth Day
WorldBeat Cultural Center hosts its 33rd annual Multi-Cultural Earth Day from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. April 20 at 2100 Park Blvd., in Balboa Park, with the theme of “Together As One.” Highlights include live music, environmental education, and multicultural performances, guest speakers and wellness activities. There will be a seed swap, compost workshop, garden tours, plant sale and children’s arts and crafts. Free RSVP at worldbeatcenter.org/event/33rd-annual-multi-cultural-earth-day.
Arc of San Diego Gala supports people with disabilities
The Arc of San Diego Gala kicks off at 5:30 p.m. May 3 at Coasterra, 880 Harbor Island Drive. This year’s gala, themed “The Greatest Place on Earth,” includes a cocktail reception, followed by dinner at 7 p.m., live entertainment and dancing. Live music will be provided by Wayne Foster Entertainment. The Master of Ceremonies is KUSI News meteorologist Mark Mathis. Attendees are encouraged to dress in white-tie optional, circus-inspired attire. Proceeds benefit children and adults with disabilities. Tickets are $300 at arc-sd.com/gala.
Jobapalooza hiring fest at Belmont Park
Belmont Park, a beachfront amusement park in Mission Beach, holds its fourth annual Jobapalooza hiring festival from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 25. The park-wide hiring event will connect job seekers with a range of local employers across industries such as hospitality, service, ride operations and more. Job seekers are encouraged to bring résumés, IDs and references, and participate in on-the-spot interviews. New to this year’s event, professional headshots will be offered to attendees. The San Diego Unified School District will partner with Urban Life to host an interview preparation and résumé-writing workshop. Visit belmontpark.com.
San Diego Book Crawl
The San Diego Public Library hosts a Book Crawl from April 26-28 at the Library Shop SD and other participating San Diego independent bookstores. Dave Eggers, the 2025 San Diego Book Crawl author ambassador, will sign books at the Library Shop SD from noon to 1 p.m. April 26. Participants can make a purchase of at least $10 at one of the participating stores to receive a Book Crawl Passport and first stamp and then receive additional stamps for each purchase of $10 or more at other bookstores. The more stamps you earn, the more prizes. Visit libraryfoundationsd.org/events/san-diego-book-crawl.
Volunteers sought to fill food bags
Sports4Kids hosts a community Hungry Hearts Fill A Bag volunteer event from 10 to 11:30 a.m. April 26 at Perkins Elementary School, 1770 Main St. Volunteers are needed to pack 250 food bags for families in need in the Perkins Elementary community. Visit sports4.org.
Woodworkers group runs classes
The nonprofit San Diego Fine Woodworkers Association will give introductory woodworking classes for ages 18 and older at 5360 Eastgate Mall. Participants will learn the basics and create a wooden cutting board and step stool in five, four-hour sessions. Class fee of $500 includes supplies, instruction and machine use. The upcoming session is from 8 a.m. to noon April 29 to May 7. Visit sdfwa.org/intro-classes.
SAN DIEGO COUNTY
Annual Creek to Bay Cleanup
The annual Creek to Bay Cleanup is from 9 a.m. to noon April 26 at beaches, parks and other locations across San Diego County. The effort is expected to include over 5,000 volunteers at more than 100 sites from Julian to the coast as part of the county’s Earth Week cleanup. Volunteers help remove litter from their communities. Register at cleansd.org/environmental-action/countywide-cleanups/creek-to-bay.
SANTEE
We Walk for Hope 5k supports drug recovery
The nonprofit Garrett Webber Memorial Scholarship Fund will hold its annual We Walk for Hope 5k at 9 a.m. May 3 at Santee Lakes, 9310 Fanita Parkway. The fund helps people suffering from substance addiction to begin treatment that they otherwise couldn’t afford and gives their families hope. The fund was started to honor Garrett Webber, a San Diegan who died at age 22 from a drug overdose. The 3.1-mile walk, which started in 2018 in partnership with Genesis Recovery, raises awareness of the national opioid epidemic and raises money for treatment to help people kick drugs and recover from drug addiction. The event is open to people of all fitness levels. Street parking is free, but parking within lake property is $7 per car. Refreshments will be served after the walk, and a disc jockey will play music for a community gathering. Registration is $45 for both in-person and virtual walkers. Visit garrettwebbermemorialscholarshipfund.com/get-involved.
SPRING VALLEY
Thrift sale benefits food pantry
Santa Sophia St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry will hold a thrift sale to benefit the pantry from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 10 in the hall behind Santa Sophia Catholic Church, 9800 San Juan St. There will be new and used items for sale, including clothing, home goods, linens, glassware, jewelry, toys, knick-knacks and furniture. Clothing in the main hall will be $1. There will also be a vintage/collectibles section and a boutique along with a room full of record albums and more than 1,000 CD/DVDs. Visit santasophia.org/st-vincent-de-paul-pantry.
VISTA
Earth Day Craft Fair
The Gloria McClellan Senior Center is hosting an Earth Day Craft Fair from 1 to 4 p.m. April 22 to promote sustainable shopping with local vendors. The fair is in the center’s Azalea Room, 1400 Vale Terrace Drive. Free admission to shoppers. Visit GMACvista.com.
Cactus buffs hold meeting
The Palomar Cactus and Succulent Society will host Craig Kolodge from San Pasqual Valley Soils to speak about developing healthy soil for cactus and succulents. The free meeting starts at 11:30 a.m. April 26 at Grace Presbyterian Church, 1450 E. Vista Way, in the Fellowship Room. Also, the group’s Festival Plant Show & Sale is from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 24 at the church. Visit palomarcactus.org.
Garden club puts on flower show
The Vista Garden Club puts on its Flower Show, Plant Sale and Garden Art Boutique, themed “Flower Power – Baby” from 2 to 5 p.m. May 3 and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 4 at the Jim Porter Recreation Center, Brengle Terrace Park, 1200 Vale Terrace Drive. The show is free and open to the public. Visit californiagardenclubs.com/vistagardenclub or email vistagardenclub@gmail.com.
For more San Diego-area Earth Day events, visit sandiegouniontribune.com/2025/04/11/how-to-celebrate-earth-day-in-san-diego-county-here-are-more-than-20-ways/
If your nonprofit would like to submit an event listing or photos of events that have happened recently, please email linda.mcintosh@sduniontribune.com. Include the name of the group, date and time of event, address, cost and contact information for readers within the email text. Event listings should be submitted at least two weeks in advance. Photos should be sent as JPEGs. Include the names of those in the photos from left to right along with the photo credit and permission from the photographer to use the photo in The San Diego Union-Tribune.
Originally Published:
San Diego, CA
More than $130M lost to elder scams in San Diego in one year
Scams targeting the elderly in San Diego County resulted in losses of more than $130 million over the course of a single year, San Diego County’s multi-agency Elder Justice Task Force announced Tuesday.
Officials released the statistics Tuesday as part of an ongoing outreach campaign regarding increasingly sophisticated internet and phone scams that are leading to escalating losses for victims.
The county’s Elder Justice Task Force, which was formed in 2020, says it has identified more than 4,600 local victims and more than $325 million in losses since its inception, resulting in state and federal prosecutions of over 70 defendants.
San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan said the true numbers of victims and losses are likely higher due to an under-reporting by victims who feel ashamed or embarrassed that they’ve fallen prey to scammers.
“The only people that need to be ashamed are the criminals who are bilking these good people out of their hard-earned money, and we want everyone to know no one is immune,” Stephan said.
The San Diego County District Attorney’s Office said in a statement that seniors can protect themselves by remembering the mantra of “Stop. Hang Up. Tell Someone” and by:
- Remembering that legitimate agencies will not ask someone to move their money elsewhere to “keep it safe”
- Hang up and call back using a number you know is real — never the one they give you
- Use call-blocking tools to reduce scam attempts
Common scams involve phone calls from people posing as authority figures or internet pop-up ads warning of supposed issues that require urgent resolution. Scammers have impersonated law enforcement, banking officials and even used AI-generated voices that mimic family members. Many of the schemes involve claims that victims’ identities have been compromised and that their money must now be transferred elsewhere in order to safeguard it.
“We’ve had enough of criminals aggressively targeting some of the most vulnerable people in San Diego County and, in some cases, bilking them out of their life savings,” Stephan said. “We want to educate senior citizens and their families about how to recognize scams and what specific actions they should take if they suspect they are being targeted.”
More examples of scams and scam prevention techniques can be found here.
San Diego, CA
Tom Krasovic: Raucous night in ‘football city’ moves San Diego FC closer to title
The party will rage on.
San Diego FC, rewarding and feeding off another loud capacity crowd, beat Minnesota United 1-0 Monday night to advance to the semifinals of the MLS Cup playoffs.
Thanks to Anders Dreyer’s 72nd-minute goal and the shutout, the first-year club booked Snapdragon Stadium for the Western Conference final Saturday against Vancouver.
If any MLS fan base deserves another home game, it’s SDFC’s supporters.
Capacity crowds of 32,500 have attended all three of the team’s playoff matches on the heels of a season in which the club finished fourth overall in attendance and first among teams that don’t play in NFL venues.
Monday night, the crowd’s chanting, singing and drum-banging impressed both sides.
“Great atmosphere,” said Minnesota United coach Eric Ramsay, who worked three years with global powerhouse Manchester United in England.
“We have landed in football city,” San Diego FC captain Jeppe Tverskov, who played for several years in Europe.
“I love to play in front of a lot of fans,” said an appreciative Dreyer, who clapped afterward for the supporters.
The match’s lone goal hit high notes, too.
SDFC forward Corey Baird ran down a through pass near the end line and heeled the ball backward to a perfect spot.
Dreyer ripped a left-foot shot, beating the league’s top goalkeeper inside the near post.
“I had just one thing on my mind: hitting it as hard as possible,” said Dreyer.
Making it a trifecta of excellence, the defense recorded its second consecutive shutout behind a few top-notch plays.
Right back Ian Pilcher’s clearout near the goal-line, in the 48th minute, may have been SDFC’s top defensive play of the year. A goal would’ve allowed Minnesota United to do what it does best — shepherd a lead to the finish line.
“It’s so well-deserved,” said Tverskov, commending Pilcher’s hard work behind the scenes and Pilcher’s adjustment to moving from center back.
Goalkeeper Pablo Sisniega, delivering a reprieve in the 64th minute, bought more time for SDFC’s offense to break through against Minnesota’s well-coordinated defense.
Though he lost his footing, Sisniega recovered quickly to block a Minnesota shot. And Pilcher, in protecting the 1-0 lead, denied the visitors a breakout near midfield by smartly taking down a player, well worth the yellow card.
“We just defended with heart the whole game through,” Tverskov said. “We did very well, considering this team is so dangerous on almost every set piece.”
So, on balance, it was another festival of football — SDFC midfielder Luca de la Torre’s phrase — in Mission Valley.

But there was a significant flaw in the presentation.
The pitch at Snapdragon Stadium, beaten up by the San Diego State-San Jose State football game two days earlier, was not worthy of a playoff match in America’s top men’s soccer league.
It was far too bumpy. And Sisniega said he slipped on sand, nearly enabling Minnesota to score a cheap goal to say nothing about increasing injury risk.
Ramsay praised SDFC, but deemed the subpar pitch an unfortunate aspect to the match.
Before he answered questions from reporters, Tverskov brought up the pitch, calling it the worst home surface of the season.
“The pitch needs to go,” Tversko said. “There’s no in between.”

Ramsay said SDFC actually would’ve benefited the most from a good-quality surface, noting that San Diego, which led the MLS in ball possession this season, tends to “dominate the ball.”
Dreyer was kinder than Tverskov and others about the pitch, saying bumpy surfaces are part of the sport.
It appears that neither a shoddy field, sickness nor jet lag can deter Denmark’s Dreyer, who in recent days was shut down by a virus that had him throwing up eight days ago in Europe. From last Monday through Wednesday, he was plagued by headaches.
Then he boarded the long flights back to San Diego.
He said he wasn’t at full speed on Monday. But when Baird teed him up, he looked as sharp as he has all year.
Next, Dreyer will lead SDFC against Vancouver for the third time. SDFC won in Canada and the teams played to a tie in Mission Valley. But this time, German star forward Thomas Müller will be with Vancouver.
“The good news,” said Dreyer, “is I can relax a little bit” in the next few days.
SDFC fans may need some time to recover, too. Come Saturday, they’ll be ready.
MLS Western Conference Final: No. 1 San Diego FC vs. No. 2 Vancouver Whitecaps
When: 6 p.m. Saturday
TV: AppleTV
Radio: 760-AM, 1700-AM (Spanish)
San Diego, CA
Amazon is shedding software developer jobs in San Diego. Is AI to blame?
Retail giant Amazon plans to shed more than 100 San Diego jobs related to software development, which has been tied to artificial intelligence gains and a struggling video game division.
Amazon will lay off 145 workers in San Diego, with their last day set as Jan. 26, said a WARN notice required by state law. It was part of a nationwide layoff of 14,000 corporate workers.
The Seattle-based company had been increasing its San Diego office presence — outside of its retail warehouses — since 2017. It has hired hundreds of local video game developers, software engineers and numerous positions related to technology.
In a blog post, the company said the nationwide layoffs were part of an effort to be leaner and less bureaucratic. It also cited AI as a reason to cut costs.
“This generation of AI is the most transformative technology we’ve seen since the Internet, and it’s enabling companies to innovate much faster than ever before (in existing market segments and altogether new ones),” wrote Beth Galetti, senior vice president of people experience and technology at Amazon. “We’re convinced that we need to be organized more leanly, with fewer layers and more ownership, to move as quickly as possible for our customers and businesses.”
While dozens of different positions were listed on the San Diego WARN notice, the single biggest cuts were to software development engineers, with more than 50 positions eliminated. Many analysts, like those at Goldman Sachs, have listed the position as one of the most vulnerable to AI. Writing simpler code, for everything from mobile phone applications to computer software, can be done more quickly by AI than a human, they say.
Kevin Carroll, executive director of industry trade group Tech San Diego, said artificial intelligence has slowed hiring for junior software developers, but it hasn’t been a bloodbath of firings. He said software developers are still needed because AI can’t do everything.
“I don’t want to minimize the impact (AI) will have,” he said, “but you are still going to need those mid- to senior-level software developers to manage that.”
Carroll said that San Diegans concerned with the local economy shouldn’t worry too much about the negative effects of AI. He said Qualcomm’s major AI focus, recently announcing new AI accelerator chips, and an abundance of skilled computer engineering students graduating from local universities, will likely make the region a hub for the young technology’s growth.
Software developers are still sought-after, according to state data that aggregates job listings. It was the fourth-most sought position in September in San Diego County with 769 job advertisements. Yet that is down from the heyday of 2018 to 2019 when it was the most in-demand position. There were 1,688 ads for software developers in August 2019.
Amazon hasn’t been shy about saying AI could change its business. CEO Andy Jassy wrote a blog post in June where he talked about major investments in the technology and what it could mean.
“As we roll out more Generative AI and agents, it should change the way our work is done,” he wrote. “We will need fewer people doing some of the jobs that are being done today, and more people doing other types of jobs.”
Using AI as a reason for layoffs has now coined a new term, “AI washing.” The concept, cited by CNBC in several articles, has several experts claiming many large companies are using it as a justification for old-fashioned cost-cutting.
Another factor at play in the Amazon layoffs is its struggling video game division, which is primarily based in San Diego and Irvine. It was unclear from the company how many of the 14,000 job cuts were related to the division. Steve Boom, vice president of Audio, Twitch, and Games, sent a letter (obtained by Deadline and other publications) to workers in late October that stated it needed to take a “critical look at the evolving dynamics of the games industry.”
Amazon leases roughly 250,000 square feet of office space in San Diego, mostly in the University Center area, said retail tracker CoStar. The layoffs aren’t expected to cause enough of a disturbance to require the company to pull out of leases. For comparison, Amazon owns or leases roughly 6.5 million square feet of warehouse space across San Diego County for its robust retail operation. It also has a 344,000-square-foot warehouse in Tijuana.
Amazon said in its’ layoff blog post that it would be offering most of the laid-off workers 90 days to look for a new job within the company, and recruiting teams will prioritize internal candidates for open jobs.
For those who can’t find other Amazon jobs, the company said it will offer severance pay, outplacement services and health insurance benefits for an unspecified amount of time.
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