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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
36.9 — The percentage of groundballs that Márquez yielded in 2025, a career low and significantly below his career average (48%). Márquez’s groundball rate was regularly above 50% before requiring Tommy John surgery in early 2023. He made one start in 2024 and struggled mightily while making 26 starts last year.
TRENDING
Down — Márquez had a 4.40 ERA through his first seven years in the majors, not bad considering he pitched roughly half his games at one of the best hitting environments in the majors. In fact, Márquez has a 5.17 ERA in his career at Coors Field and a 4.22 ERA in road environments. But Márquez underwent Tommy John surgery early in 2023, made one start in the majors in mid-July in 2024 (4 IP, 3 ER) and struggled throughout his first full year back in the Rockies rotation. The season was so difficult for Márquez that he was actually worse on the road (7.32 ERA) than he was in 11 starts at Coors Field (5.98 ERA). His strikeout rate (5.9 per nine innings) and strikeout-to-walk ratio (1.73) were the worst of his careers, as was his walk rate (3.4 per nine innings), while his hit rate (12.0 per nine innings) was the second worst of his career. On top of that, Márquez’s groundball rate was also the lowest of his career (see stat to note) and ranked in the bottom 22nd percentile of the league and his hard-hit rate (48.5%) and average exit velocity (91.7 mph) both ranked in the bottom 2 percentile of the league. One reason: a 94.8 mph four-seamer is down a few ticks than the height of his effectiveness. Márquez reached free agency after the season and signed with the Padres in February.
2026 OUTLOOK
Márquez has a big-league deal with the Padres, but he’ll have to rediscover his pre-elbow-reconstruction form to hold onto a roster spot, as RHP Griffin Canning (Achilles) is expected to push for a spot at some point this season and the likes of LHP JP Sears, RHP Matt Waldron and minor league signees like Marco Gonzales could warrant looks if Márquez’s struggles continue into 2026.
German Marquez #33 of the San Diego Padres participates in drills during spring training workouts at the Peoria Sports Complex on Monday, Feb. 16, 2026 in Peoria, Ariz.(Meg McLaughlin / The San Diego Union-Tribune)
In today’s Daily Dirt, I mentioned that the search at San Diego was done. Here’s the official announcement from USD on the hiring of JR Blount as their next head men’s basketball coach:
University of San Diego Athletics has named JR Blount the 15th head coach in San Diego men’s basketball program history, USD Associate Vice President and Executive Director of Athletics Kimya Massey announced on Monday.
Blount arrives in San Diego with a reputation as one of college basketball’s rising coaching talents after helping lead Iowa State to four NCAA Tournament appearances in four seasons.
He joins the Toreros after five seasons on T.J. Otzelberger’s staff at Iowa State, where the Cyclones compiled a 95-45 record during his tenure, won the 2024 Big 12 Tournament Championship and reached the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 in 2022 and 2024 — one of the most successful stretches in program history. Iowa State finished in the AP Top 15 in each of those four seasons and climbed as high as No. 2 nationally in each of the last two years. During the 2025-26 season, the Cyclones opened with a 16-0 start, highlighted by victories over No. 1 Purdue, No. 2 Houston, No. 9 Kansas and No. 14 St. John’s.
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“After a thorough and highly competitive national search, we are proud to welcome JR Blount as the next head coach of USD men’s basketball,” said Massey. “JR is an outstanding leader, a relentless competitor and one of the brightest rising coaches in college basketball. Even more importantly, throughout this process I came to know him as a humble leader with strong integrity and deep family values. JR has been a part of winning at every level of his career and understands what it takes to build a program that competes with toughness, discipline and consistency. Just as importantly, he believes in developing young men holistically and leading in a way that reflects the values of this university.
“This is a pivotal moment for our program and JR’s vision aligns with our belief that San Diego men’s basketball should compete in the upper tier of the WCC and position itself to be a regular NCAA Tournament participant. We are excited about what lies ahead under his leadership.”
“As a product of Catholic education and deeply committed to USD’s mission and values, Coach Blount is an outstanding role model for the young men in our Torero basketball program,” said USD President James T. Harris III. “He brings an impressive resume with deep experience, a winning track record and — above all — a commitment to the overall wellbeing of our student-athletes.”
“I’m incredibly honored and grateful for the opportunity to lead USD men’s basketball,” Blount said. “We are so thankful to Athletic Director Kimya Massey and President Harris for this opportunity. This is more than just a coaching position for me — it’s a chance to become part of a community and build something meaningful. My wife and our three daughters are excited to make this move together and we can’t wait to invest in this university and the relationships that make it special.
I come to USD with a deep desire to win — to compete relentlessly, to develop our young men to their fullest potential and to build a program our fans can be proud of. Winning championships is important, but so is building a culture of toughness, accountability and love. We’re going to work every day to represent USD the right way, on and off the court. I’m ready to get started.”
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Blount played a key role in Iowa State’s rise under Otzelberger, helping orchestrate one of the most significant program turnarounds in recent Division I history. In his first season with the Cyclones in 2021-22, Iowa State rebounded from a two-win campaign the year before to finish 22-13 and advance to the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16. The Cyclones quickly established a national reputation for defensive toughness, ranking among the nation’s best in scoring defense, defensive efficiency, steals and turnovers forced.
Over the next three seasons, Blount helped Iowa State sustain that momentum. In 2022-23, the Cyclones advanced to the NCAA Tournament and recorded nine wins over AP Top 25 opponents, tied for the most in school history. In 2023-24, Iowa State won the Big 12 Championship, finished 29-8, posted an undefeated 18-0 record at Hilton Coliseum and advanced to the Sweet 16. Most recently, the 2024-25 Cyclones finished 25-10, climbed as high as No. 2 in the Associated Press poll, earned another NCAA Tournament appearance and closed the season ranked No. 17 nationally.
Known for his work in player development, recruiting and culture-building, Blount has mentored multiple all-conference and All-America caliber players throughout his coaching career. At Iowa State, he developed some of the Big 12’s top performers while contributing to a program identity rooted in toughness, connectivity and competitive excellence.
Prior to Iowa State, Blount spent three seasons at Colorado State, where he helped elevate the Rams into one of the Mountain West’s top programs. During his tenure in Fort Collins, Colorado State signed the highest-rated recruiting class in program history and posted consecutive 20-win seasons, including a 20-8 finish and a run to the NIT semifinals in 2020-21. He also played a leadership role in Colorado State’s Together Initiative, which promoted social justice and racial equality on campus.
Blount also previously served in coaching roles at Drake and Saint Leo and began his collegiate coaching career as a graduate assistant at Wisconsin-Stevens Point, where the program won the 2010 NCAA Division III National Championship.
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A former three-year team captain and two-time team MVP at Loyola University Chicago, Blount later played professionally for the Leicester Riders of the British Basketball League during the 2010-11 season. He earned degrees in psychology and sociology from Loyola in 2009 and later received his master’s degree in education from UW-Stevens Point in 2012.
A native of Milwaukee, Blount and his wife, Ashley, have three daughters: Maya, Zuri and Gema.
UNIVERSITY CITY (KGTV) — San Diego police are investigating the death of an 81-year-old woman who was found unresponsive in her apartment in the 6300 block of Genesee Avenue.
Officers and San Diego Fire-Rescue personnel responded to a 9-1-1 call at about 11:56 p.m. on March 6.
First responders found the woman in her bedroom, unresponsive and “positioned awkwardly on a bed.” Despite immediate life-saving efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Detectives from the San Diego Police Department’s Homicide Unit were called to the scene due to “unusual circumstances,” police said. The cause and manner of death remain undetermined.
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Investigators are working with the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office to determine what happened.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Homicide Unit at (619) 531-2293 or Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.
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