Community Spotlight Show: Recent Episodes
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The Community Spotlight Show Is Hosted By Drew Schlosberg, Community And Public Relations Manager For The San Diego Union-Tribune, Profiles Non-Profits, Community Organizations And Heros That Are Making A Difference.
Charles Parisi, Founder and CEO of Cloudcast Media, discusses his entrepreneurial roots and his tireless passion to support local nonprofit causes and organizations. Parisi chats about CauseCast, Cloudcast 180 and the Cloudcast Lift Lab.
Haney Hong, President & CEO of the San Diego County Taxpayers Association (SDCTA), talks about the Association's operation; it's work during the COVID-19 crisis; and how the community can support the 75-year-old organization.
Kerri Fox, VP of Marketing for The New Children's Museum, is joined by her colleague, Tomoko Kuta, the Museum's Deputy Director, discuss the museum's shift to reach their constituents virtually to stimulate imagination, creativity and critical thinking in children and their families through inventive and engaging experiences with contemporary art. Fox and Kuta chat about the museum's Mass Creativity, True Tuesdays and Hope campaign.
Jeanmarie Bond, Executive Director of the Coronado Schools Foundation, and Leanne Anderson, the Foundation's Director of Development, talk about the Foundation's mission and its virtual Telethon on Wednesday, May 6 from 5:00-9:00 p.m. The Telethon will raise funds for Coronado USD initiatives, such as STEM and Arts Pathways programs.
Sara Pagano, Managing Director for the San Diego Festival of Science & Engineering (SDFSE), is joined by Illumina's Tiana Austel, Corporate Citizenship Specialist, and Brian Steffy, Associate Director, to talk about Illumina's longtime support of one of the nation's top science festivals.
Pagano, Austel and Steffy discuss the importance of inspiring today's students to become tomorrow's science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) innovators.
Doreen Schonbrun, President of the VAPA Foundation, and Russ Sperling, VAPA Director for the San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD), to chat about the Saturday, April 18, 2nd Annual Gala: Beyond Brilliance. Schonbrun and Sperling talk about the thousands of students, teachers, parents and SDUSD stakeholders that are the beneficiaries of the myriad arts programs and projects supporting by the Foundation and district.
Tomas Urtasun, CEO of the Regional Strategies Group (RSG), and Frank Urtasun, President of RSG and longtime venerable San Diego County community leader, capitalize on their strong community connections and digital acumen to help clients meet and exceed measurable goals.
Brett Allen, President of the San Diego Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA), is joined by Joy Lyndes, Government Affairs Liaison of the California Council of ASLA, to discuss the organization's mission, vision and key initiatives.
Simona Valanciute, President & CEO of San Diego Oasis, talks about her organization’s mission to help people 50 years and older pursue healthy aging through lifelong learning, active lifestyles and community service. Valanciute describes Oasis’ annual 3,000 workshops offered to its 5,500 active members.
Rick Rungaitis, CEO of the San Marcos Chamber, discusses the chamber’s role in the City of San Marcos’ growth, along with programs, services and events offered to member businesses and organizations.
Lillian Maestas, STEM Chair for the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA), and Nelson Mozzini of the Haiku Cyber Range, chat about the importance of educating youth on cyber security issues through middle school and high school competitions such as the SoCal Cyber Cup Challenge. Maestas and Mozzini are joined by Chris Simpson, Director of National University’s Center for Cybersecurity and Flora Yuan, a SoCal Cyber Cup Challenge participant on the CyberAegis Axion team.
Laura Tancredi-Baese, the CEO of Home Start, one of the region’s leading organizations combatting child abuse, talks about the potential for an increase in abuse due to the stay-at-home directive and other family stress points caused by COVID-19. Tancredi-Baese discusses the move of the annual Blue Ribbon Extravaganza to June 27, along with Home Start’s immediate fundraising needs.
Debra Emerson, CEO of St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center, chats about the impact on the diverse programs and services of the Center that empowers individuals with developmental disabilities to realize their full potential. Emerson discusses the postponement of its long-running Morning Glory Brunch and talks about ways the public can support the Center during these turbulent times.
Dr. Zia Agha, Chief Medical Officer for nationally acclaimed West Health, is joined by his colleague, Dr. Ross Colt, Medical Director for Gary and Mary West PACE, to chat about how West Health and PACE are tackling the COVID-19 crisis and its innovative, game-changing telehealth program that will support seniors in response to the pandemic.
Todd Lane, President & CEO of California Coast Credit Union, talks about Cal Coast’s support of its most important assets … its employees and members. Lane discusses the credit union’s current operations and status, along with its financial strength, stability and security during these unsettling times.
Chi Varnado, a retired dance teacher and creative writing workshop leader, discusses her third published book – The Dance Centre Presents Giselle – the first in a series of books celebrating the joy of dance.
John Bolthouse, Executive Director of the Friends of Balboa Park, talks about the organization’s collaboration with myriad partners to enhance and preserve San Diego’s “Jewel.” Bolthouse chats about the Balboa Park Carousel capital campaign and other “Friends” projects; membership benefits; and ways to support Balboa Park during these tumultuous times.
Lisa Bain, Healthy Start Director for Project Concern International (PCI), is joined by Nikki Helms, a licensed midwife, to discuss PCI’s Healthy Start Program and how Healthy Start is dealing with COVID-19; disparities in perinatal health. Bain and Helms chat about Black Maternal Health Week, slated for April 11-17.
Diana Agostini, Executive Director of the San Diego Italian Film Festival, discusses the role of the arts and artists during crises such as the current pandemic. Agostini chats about the Festival’s offerings of virtual programs such as it’s recently launched “Ristretto of the Week,” that highlights a short film each Wednesday. Beginning on Monday, March 30, SDIFF will be sharing its “Pick of the Week,” a feature-length Italian film that is shown on a streaming channel. SDIFF is encouraging “Pick of the Week” viewers to participate in a “live” discussion of the film on the following Sunday.
Billy Moore, President & CEO of the ABC Youth Foundation and son of San Diego icon and boxing legend Archie Moore, chats about his father’s vision for youth when he founded the organization more than 60 years ago. Moore is joined by Terence Shigg, Foundation COO, to chat about to the Foundation’s programs and activities that annual serve 4,000 youth.
Robert Coleman, President & CEO of Second Chance, arguably the region’s most effective organization in significantly reducing recidivism, unemployment and homelessness, chats about COVID-19’s impact on its programs and services. Coleman talks about ways the community can support Second Chance, which has empowered thousands of participants to overcome years of incarceration and poverty to become self-sufficient.
Troy Talbert, Men’s Residence Manager for the more than 100-year-old Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center, discusses the Center’s free six-month program that provides housing, food, counseling, community and rehabilitation services to those struggling with drug and alcohol addiction. Talbert, a former beneficiary of the Center, discusses how the program turned his life around.
Susan Clausen, Owner of Clausen Communications and PR maven for Scripps Ranch Theatre, is joined by Ted Leib, Artistic Director for the Oceanside Theatre Company, to talk about their theaters’ on-going collaboration to co-produce an online reading of local playwright Casey Tibbitts’ play -- Quiet Cross – on April 2. Clausen and Leib, who will both perform in Quiet Cross, discuss how COVID-19 has impacted each of their theaters.
Marianela Camarillo, COO of Miracle Babies, and Dr. Nabil Arrach, Founder and CEO of Progenesis, discuss the mission, vision and services of their respective organizations.
Patricia Geist-Martin, Professor at the San Diego State University’s School of Communication, and author of Falling in Love with the Process: A Stroke Survivor’s Story, discusses the incredible journey of Bill Torres, as he recovers from a paralyzing stroke. Geist-Martin’s book in some ways is more about cultivating resilience than overcoming a stroke.
Amie Brown, Director of Development for Meals On Wheels San Diego County, chats about the record number of requests for information about volunteering to deliver meals for seniors in need. Brown talks about the 60th Anniversary Gala slated for Saturday, June 13 at the Sheraton Harbor Island.
Michelle Pius, Chief Development Officer for Fresh Start Surgical Gifts, talks about the organization’s mission to provide free surgeries for disadvantaged infants, children and teens with physical deformities caused by birth, accidents, abuse or disease. Pius discusses the organization’s 30-plus-year history that has provided nearly 8,000 no-cost surgeries valued at more than $42 million.
Dorcy Rose, Events Manager for The San Diego Union-Tribune, is joined by Kelly Lapadula, Community Outreach Specialist for St. Paul’s Senior Services, and Ken Druck, author of Raising An Aging Parent, to talk about 3rd Annual CaregiverSD Expo, that will be held on Saturday, March 21 at the Paradise Point Resort & Spa.
Denise Mahaffey and Jessica Chandler, Co-Founders of Trinity Global Enterprises and hosts of the CANNA WORLD EXPO online symposium from April 4-11, are joined by leaders in the cannabis field and a celebrity coffee chef to chat about what is new with CBD (cannabidiol); the importance of anti-bacterial and anti-viral products in the age of coronavirus; coffee and CBD.
Chad Stewart, award-winning author of Britfield & the Lost Crown, talks about his 27-state Spring 2020 tour to 150 schools and 30,000 students to promote creativity in the classroom. Steward is joined by Union-Tribune photojournalist, Howard Lipin, to discuss creativity through the lens of a journalist.
Bobbie Smith, Executive Director of the San Diego Crew Classic, chats about the 47th Annual San Diego Crew Classic that will be held April 4-5 at Fiesta Bay-Crown Point Shores. Smith is joined by Stesha Carle, Head Coach of USD Women’s Rowing, and Joeri Bruschinski, Men’s Rowing Coach for the international recognized Amsterdam Student Rowing Club Nereus. Smith, Carle and Bruschinski discuss the Copley Cup that will feature rowing powerhouses such as Nereus, Yale, Cal and Brown.
Sean Mahoney, Regional CEO of the American Red Cross of San Diego/Imperial Counties, is joined by Priya Sheriff, Armed Forces Program Specialist, to discuss the Red Cross’ 100-Plus years history supporting the military in San Diego. Mahoney and Sheriff discuss the services provided to the military, in addition to its Disaster Preparedness Academy on Friday, March 20, and the Sound the Alarm event on Saturday, April 18 in Oceanside.
Elly Brown, Executive Director of the San Diego Food System Alliance, shouts out the mission of the Alliance and its San Diego County Food Vision 2030 … a 10-year strategic plan for moving the region toward a healthier, more sustainable and more just food system. Brown is joined by Diane Moss, Managing Director of Project New Village, to talk about Moss’s connection and support of Food Vision 2030.
Lauren Mapp, Caregiving Reporter for The San Diego Union-Tribune, is joined by Phil Lindsley, Founder of the San Diego Elder Law Center, to discuss the upcoming annual CaregiversSD Community Expo that will be held on Saturday, March 21 at the Paradise Point Resort & Spa. Mapp chats about the Union-Tribune’s CaregiverSD.com website, while Lindsley, whose company is an Expo sponsor, talks about the importance of long-term care planning.
Don Wells, Executive Director of Just in Time for Foster Youth (JIT), and Virgo Villajin, Youth Services Lead Coordinator, chat about JIT’s Saturday, March 14, “Walk the Talk” event that will be held at the Hyatt Regency La Jolla Aventine. Wells and Villajin talk about the myriad programs and services offered by JIT.
Faye Luepton, PR & Marketing Coordinator for Promises2Kids, is joined by two of the organization’s Guardian Scholars: Brooklyn Lopez and Susie Gallo, to talk about the unprecedented success of the program that has led to an 85% completion rate of foster youth in high education. Luepton, Lopez and Gallo discuss the key component of Guardian Scholars, along with the Promises2Kids’ Camp Connect program.
Karmin Noar, Executive Director of the Biocom Institute, chats about the Institute's mission, high school internship program and Military Fellowship.
Shelly McTighe-Rippengale, Senior Vice President & Chief Development Officer for the YMCA of San Diego County, is joined by Courtney Cordero, the Y's Association Director of the Annual Campaign, to talk about the organization's mission, services and programs. McTighe-Rippengale and Cordero discuss the YMCA's goal to double its impact by 2025.
Charles Parisi, Co-Founder of Songs for Shelter with his daughter Ava, talks about the organization's re-launch with a concert on March 11 at the Lafayette Hotel. The concert's goal is to raise awareness and financial resources to help reduce teen homelessness in the county.
Joshua Swider, CEO and Co-Founder of InfiniteCAL, chats about his company's mission to provide the cannabis industry with accurate and timely analytical services in the burgeoning cannabis arena. Swider discusses InfitniteCAL's partnership with Platinum Vape and Mankind Dispensary to conduct a buy-back program that replaces dangerous illicit vape cartridges with quality third-party tested products.
Wes Burke, President of Emerald Scientific, discusses the organization’s 6th Annual Emerald Conference, that will be held at the Loews Coronado Bay Resort on February 27-29. The conference features the nation’s leading cannabis science researchers.
Stacy Weaver, Executive Director of the American Heart Association, San Diego Division, and Dr. Tarane Sondoozi, GM of VEBA Resource Center Programming, chat about events surrounding American Heart Month in February – such as the “Go Red for Women Luncheon” on February 28 -- and in subsequent months. Sondoozi talks about the connection between mental health and heart diseases.
Jessica York, Vice President of the San Diego Museum Council Board of Directors and Deputy Director and Chief Advancement Officer of the Mingei International Museum, is joined by her Board member colleagues Laurie Egan-Hedley of the Barona Cultural Center and Museum, and Cris Scorza, of the Museum of Contemporary Art, San Diego, to talk about the 31s Annual San Diego Museum Month. York, Egan-Hedley and Scorza discuss happenings at their respective museums.
Dr. Emily Young, Executive Director of the University of San Diego Nonprofit Institute, discusses her organization’s mission to provide education, training and research to build leaders and strengthen the capacity of nonprofits in our region.
Dr. Al La Spada, one of the nation’s leading neurodegenerative disease researchers and a Professor and Vice Chair of the Department of Neurology at Duke University’s School of Medicine, talks about the growing epidemic of age-related neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Dr. La Spada discusses work that is being conducted to develop therapies and treatments for these types of diseases.
Kim Bauman, Founder of One Love Movement, discusses her organization’s mission to bring people and organizations together to advance social justice.
Bauman is joined by Mimi Lee of San Diego Refugee Tutoring and Stephen Moore, Chief Program Officer of Voices for Children, to discuss services offered by each of their nonprofits.
Deacon Jim Vargas, President & CEO of Father Joe’s Villages (FJV), chats about its Turning the Key initiative to build 2,000 units of affordable housing dedicated to people overcoming homelessness. In January, FJV broke ground on Benson Place and Saint Teresa of Calcutta Village, that will contain 82 and 407 units of housing respectively.
Michelle Malin, Vice President of Development for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego, and Ashley Schumacher, the organization’s Marketing & Communications Manager, talk about the successful $10 million comprehensive campaign to purchase 11 buses and 2 passenger vans to support the Boys & Girls Clubs’ transportation program. Malin and Schumacher discuss February’s “Little Jumps Month” that raises funds to support the organization’s year-round Healthy Lifestyle program.
Gary Weitzman, President and CEO of the San Diego Humane Society, talks about the Society’s explosive growth in recent years and the opening of a new, state-of-the-art Behavior Center at its San Diego Campus.
Yonatan Farber, Executive Director and Chief Instructor of Caliber 3 USA, chats about the elite self-defense and security training his company provides to local law enforcement agencies, companies, houses of worship and individual. Caliber 3 was established in Israel and recently opened a training center in San Marcos.
Danielle Valenciano, Director of Community Scholarships for The San Diego Foundation, is joined by her colleague, Michelle Jaramillo, the Foundation’s Director of Educational Initiatives, to discuss the nearly $3 million of scholarships that will be awarded to high school, college and adult re-entry students to attend colleges and universities through the Foundation’s Community Scholarship Program.
Jaden Risner, a Navy Veteran and CEO/Co-Founder of Family Proud, talks about his company’s mission to help patients connect with a support network to share resources and effectively manage the burden of care.
Mary Case, Executive Director of the Crisis House, is joined by Pat Zamora, Domestic Violence Counselor for the organization, and Angie Lasagna, Vice President of Community Relations and External Affairs for Mission Federal Credit Union, to talk about Crisis House’s mission to provide programs and services that address domestic violence and homelessness. Case discusses the organization’s “Hearts of Gold Gala” fundraiser, slated for Sunday, February 9 at the University Club at Symphony Towers.
Michael Rennie, President & CEO of Poway On Stage, discusses the distinguished musicians who will be filling out the organization’s 2019-2020 Performance Series, which ends in June. Grammy Award-winning artists, such as Elvin Bishop, Charlie Musselwhite and Roseanne Cash, highlight the performances. Rennie chats about Poway OnStage’s “Arts In Education” initiative and “Taste of Our Town” event.
Marcus McCammon, a highly acclaimed mechanical engineer, was recently named President of Ricardo, Inc., a global leader in providing vehicle and intelligent transportation systems, along with hybrid and electric systems for transportation, defense and clean energy. McCammon talks about the opening of a Ricardo, Inc. office in Carlsbad and the impact his company will have on the region in terms of economic and technological growth, and “green” stewardship.
Mohammad Al Mahdawi, a self-admitted reluctant reader, talks about how the mission and efforts of Traveling Stories turned him into a voracious reader. Al Mahdawi is joined by Emily Moberly, CEO and Founder to the organization, whose focus is to empower children to overcome obstacles by helping them fall in love with reading by the 4th grade. Moberly, the author of a new children’s book – Watch Out for Mr. B – chats about Al Mahdawi’s work as a stellar Traveling Stories volunteer.
Jerry Schniepp, the highly regarded Commissioner of the CIF-San Diego Section, discusses his nine-year run as the head of prep sports in San Diego County, which will end in June due to his recently announced retirement. Schniepp discusses career highlights.
Kristen Fogle, Executive Director of San Diego Writers, Ink and author of Dare to Write: Writing Prompts For Young People and Word Rebels Everywhere, talks about her recently released book.
Katie Sawyer, Executive Director of the San Diego Women’s Foundation, discusses the Foundation’s granting of $243,000 to human trafficking prevention, intervention and recovery programs. Sawyer is joined by Katy Randall, Regional Director of San Diego PROTECT, a program of the San Diego Trafficking Prevention Collective, a $50,000 recipient of the Foundation’s grant.
Bill Lawrence, President & CEO of the San Diego History Center, chats about the Center’s noteworthy accomplishments in 2019, including the implementation of three major initiatives.
Jim Behun, San Diego Sunroad Boat Show Manager, talks about the annual event now in its 11th year. This year’s boat show will be held from January 23-26 at the Sunroad Resort Marina on Harbor Island.
Katy Sperry, Director of Marketing and Operations for the Torrey Project, chats about her organization’s goal to work with businesses to change the way business is conducted in our country that benefits the business, as well as the environment and society as a whole.
Trish Boaz, Executive Director of the San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy, is joined by Ana Lutz, the Conservancy’s Education Manager, and Jeff Nordland, a Herpetologist for the Southwestern Field Herping Association, to discuss the mission and projects of the Conservancy and its work with organizations such as the Herping Association.
Mike Aguilar, Executive Director of the Flying Leatherneck Historical Foundation and a retired Brigadier General in the Marine Corps, talks about the Foundation’s support of the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum, the world’s only museum dedicated to USMC aviation with the largest collection of historical aircraft flown by U.S. Marine pilots.
Todd Kaprielian, President of the Downtown San Diego Lions Club, and Jose Cruz, 1st Vice President of the Club, chat about the programs and services of the organization, which is the nation’s largest Lions Club.
Jose Vallejo, an Alumnus of the Barrio Logan College Institute, is joined by Barbara Ybarra, the Institute’s Interim CEO, to talk about Vallejo’s successful journey from underserved student to Yale University graduate to Executive Director of a youth-serving organization, all due to the programs and services of the Institute. Ybarra and Vallejo talk about the Institute’s Capital Campaign to purchase a new building for the 1,000 + students that take part in the Institute’s after-school programs.
Lillian Maestas, STEM Chair for the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA), is joined by Bill Reid, Academic Program Director BS Cybersecurity for National University, and Nelson Mozzini, Project Director for The Haiku Cyber Range, to chat about the annual SoCal Cyber Cub Challenge and the roles of their respective organizations in supporting the middle school and high school competition.
Claudine Van Gonka, Public Relations Manager for the San Diego Blood Bank, chats about the need for blood during the holiday season. Van Gonka talks about the Blood Bank’s innovative programs, such as Mother’s Milk Bank, and it’s focus on medical research..
Debra Emerson, CEO of St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center, talks about the Center’s “Tea by the Sea” fundraising event on Saturday, January 18 at the venerable Marine Room featuring Chef Bernard. Emerson discusses the Center’s diverse programs to empower individuals with developmental disabilities to realize their full potential.
Scott Sibley, Director of Journeys Map, discusses the company’s “game-changing” app that allows users to navigate the multiple pathways from any starting point to goal completion for academic and career applications. Sibley, whose company presented its visionary product and strategy at the White House in 2016, talks about Journeys Map’s partnership with the San Diego Cyber Center of Excellence; its participation at cyber and career pathways conferences and its myriad applications to be a platform solution for those in the K-12 space, those in higher-ed and those transitioning from the military to civilian life.
Author Helen Fields, chats about how her background as a criminal lawyer led to her “new” career as a crime series author. Fields discusses her latest novel, Degrees of Guilt.
Diana Agostini, new Executive Director of the San Diego Italian Film Festival, discusses the Festival’s goal of sharing an appreciation of Italian culture through the cinema of Italy. Agostini talks about the 2020 lineup of films.
Alberto Cortes, CEO of Mama’s Kitchen, talks about the organization’s upcoming 30th Anniversary and its mission to provide nutritional meals to women, men and women vulnerable to hunger due to HIV, cancer or other critical illnesses. Cortes chats about the delivery of Mama’s Kitchen’s 9 millionth meal in September, along with its new congestive heart failure and Type II diabetes programs.
Nancy Sasaki, President and CEO of the United Way of San Diego County, is joined by Rebekah J. Hook-Held, Chief Public Affairs & Civic Engagement Officer for the San Diego LGBT Community Center, and Maggie Ramsberger, Chief, Agency Operations Integrative Services Division of the County of San Diego’s Health and Human Services Agency, to discuss the importance of ensuring that all populations are counted in the 2020 Census. Ramsberger, Hook-Held and Sasaki chat about the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) Coalition’s work to provide free tax preparation for low-income families that resulted in eligible households receiving more than $47 million in federal and tax refunds.
Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke, Co-Authors of The Two Lila Bennetts, discuss their longtime friendship and how they have co-authored seven novels.
Charles Parisi, Founder and CEO of Cloudcast Media, chats about his media company’s focus on delivering sonic branding to local brands, local stories and local storytellers. Parisi discusses how Cloudcast Media, the U-T’s Internet Radio broadcast partner, is adding to its growing portfolio of programs
Tomas Herrera-Mishler, President and CEO of the Balboa Park Conservancy, discusses the Conservancy’s mission to address sustainability and accessibility needs in the iconic park. Herrera-Mishler talks about the restoration of the park’s 100-year old Botanical Building and its successful Plant It Forward program.
Jeanne McAlister, Founder and CEO of the 42-year-old McAlister Institute, discusses her 63 years of being clean and sober, along with her organization’s mission to provide high-quality, affordable substance abuse treatment and recovery programs to adults, teens and families in San Diego County. McAlister is joined by Steve Breen, the two-time Pulitzer-Prize-winning editorial cartoonist for The San Diego Union-Tribune.
Gina Rivera, a high school dropout whose entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen has enabled her to build a beauty empire (Phenix Salon Suites), discusses her autobiography, A Mirror And A Prayer. Rivera chats about her life journeys; her Gina’s Platform app; and her Gina Cares Foundation that supports cancer research.
Dick Eiden recounts his 50-year journey as an activist in the turbulent 1960s to modern times in his memoir, Paying the Rent.
Doug Friedman, Director of Communications for the Alzheimer’s Association of San Diego, is joined by Alejandra Pulido, Care Consultant and Education Manager for the Association and Bart Newson, an Alzheimer’s caregiver, to discuss the importance of Alzheimer’s research and caregiver health. Newsome talks about his experiences caring for his wife who is now in a care facility.
Hezhi Naseem, Director of Programs for Traveling Stories, and Christelle Jones, Director of Outreach and Partnerships, chat about their organization’s goal to instill a love for reading for children by engaging 500 reading role models to read to kids through Story Tents throughout the county.
Donnie Dee, President & CEO of the San Diego Rescue Mission, and Michelle LeBeau, Director of Church Partnerships, discuss the Mission’s annual Thanksgiving Meal and its work with local churches.
Patrick Gittisriboongul, Chief Innovation Officer for the San Diego County Office of Education, is joined by Mithil Pujar, Chairman of the Executive Student Cabinet, to talk about the importance of the students’ voice in preparing them for college and careers. Gittisriboongul and Pujar discuss eSports and Career Technical Education.
JoAnn Petrie Carr, ex-wife of an astronaut during the Apollo space mission era, discusses her novel, Keeper of the Flame. Carr chats about her post marriage shift to law school.
Joshua Travers, Founder and Executive Director of Saved in America, is joined by his son, Joshua Travers, a police officer and case manager for Saved in America, to chat about the organization’s role in working with parents and law enforcement to prevent trafficking of missing, runaway and exploited children.
Dustin Adkins, Vice President of Financial Affairs for San Diego State University’s Associated Students (A.S.), talks about A.S.’s annual campus-wide campaign to raise food for the Jacobs and Cushman San Diego Food Bank and for SDSU’s food pantry.
Actor Debra Wanger discusses her book, The Resilient Actor: How to Kick Ass in the Business Without It Kicking Your Ass.
Kim Bauman, Founder of One Love Movement, chats about the organization’s mission and its 8th Annual Charity Yoga Event.
Vembra Holnagel, Board President of the Shades of Pink Foundation California, chats about her Foundation’s mission to provide monetary assistance to women who are experiencing financial distress as a result of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Holnagel is joined by Sandy Hanshaw, a breast cancer survivor and co-Founder of “Bike for Boobs,” that will be held on Saturday, November 9 at the Wine Pub in Point Loma.
Debra Emerson, longtime CEO of St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center, chats about the Center’s more than 50 years of supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Emerson is joined by Joe Garzanelli and Don Parent, Co-Founders of the 6th Annual Swing for Santa Golf Tournament that will be held on November 8 at Sycuan Golf Resort.
Billy Moore, President & CEO of the ABC Youth Foundation, and son of boxing legend Archie Moore, and Susan Clausen, a Foundation supporter, discuss services offered by the 62-year-old organization. Moore and Clausen are joined by James Dallas, whose son is being trained as a Middleweight boxer by Moore.
Author Lisa Shapiro discusses her book, No Forgotten Fronts: From Classrooms to Combat, that features letters from students of San Diego State College Professor Lauren Post, who asked those in his class entering military service during WWII to write to him when they went off to war… he received 5,000 letters.
Ed Hiner, a 20-year Navy SEAL and CEO of Asymmetrical, is joined by Gary Denham, also a 20-year Navy SEAL and a Senior Instructor and Curriculum Developer, to discuss their SEALpreneurship program with students at San Pasqual Academy.
Debbie Case, President & CEO of Meals On Wheels San Diego County, chats about new initiatives and upcoming events of the nearly 50-year-old organization. Case discusses her retirement at the end of the year.
Farel Hruska, Director of Education and Culture for Chuze Fitness, discusses the fitness club’s unprecedented growth and the experiences that differentiate it from other fitness experiences.
Mary Stopler, Co-Chair of the Rady Children’s Hospital Auxiliary La Jolla Unit, talks about the recent beWELL Fitness Fair fundraising event that benefits the new Copley Psychiatric Emergency Department.
Ashley Camac, Executive Director of USO San Diego, Lisa Record, Vice President of Development for Veterans Village of San Diego, and Tom Seidler, Senior Vice President of Community and Military Affairs for the San Diego Padres, continue the conversation on their relentless support of veterans, active duty personnel and their families.
Ashley Camac, Executive Director of USO San Diego, Lisa Record, Vice President of Development for Veterans Village of San Diego, and Tom Seidler, Senior Vice President of Community and Military Affairs for the San Diego Padres, discuss how the troika have partnered to enhance the lives of veterans, active duty personnel and their families in our region.
Author Matthew Quirk, one of nation’s top thriller writers, discusses his novel, The Night Agent, a book that deals with Russian influence in the White House.
Cheri Pierre, CEO of Computers 2 Kids San Diego, and Ceanne Guerra, Media and Public Relations Manager for Cox Communications, discuss their organizations’ partnership in providing underserved populations with free computers and low-cost Internet access. Pierre and Guerra shout out Cox’ “Connect2Compete” program.
Laura Tancredi-Baese, CEO of Home Start, Inc,. is joined by longtime Home Start Board Member, Anthony Bollotta, President of Bollotta Entertainment, and Bob Scheid, Community Relations Manager for California Coast Credit Union, to chat about Home Start’s annual Hallow-Wine event and its myriad services to fight child abuse and neglect.
John Highkin, Executive Director of the Fern Street Circus, is joined by Memo Mendez, the Circus’ Ringleader, to talk about bridging the cultural gap through this unique social circus. Highkin and Mendez discuss the upcoming Neighborhood Tour – “Tales from Friendship Park” and the Circus’ robust after-school programs in City Heights.
Brad Pagano, Vice President of Rancho Private Wealth, is joined by six year old Emma Pagano, making her radio debut, where we learn how Brad's 20 years of working with non-profits has informed and inspired the holistic, education driven approach to wealth management provided by Brad and his colleagues. We also learn about Emma's favorite first grade classes - music and art - and her favorite ice cream, chocolate chip cookie dough.
Ravi Bajaj, President, and David Berens, Residential Committee Co-Chair, from the San Diego Green Building Council discuss their organization's mission to drive education and collaboration for the purpose of sustainable building practices in San Diego. They also discuss the kick-off of Green Week on October 15th, concluding on October 19th and 20th with a two day self-guided tour of leading edge green homes around San Diego.
Diane Nares, Co-Founder and Karen Terra, President & CEO of the Emilio Nares Foundation, discuss their tremendous success in eliminating transportation to treatment challenges for San Diego, Imperial and Orange County families whose children have been diagnosed with cancer. As they approach one million miles driven and 6,000 families served, their next challenge is serving the 1700 children in Los Angeles County who missed 2200 cancer treatments last year because they did not have transportation. Learn more about their services and the upcoming "Adopt A Family Campaign" by visiting ENFHope.org.
Chantal Breyfogle, Board Member for Susan G. Komen San Diego and the Chair of Dine Out For The Cure, is joined by Joaquin Farfan, Jr., a member of the founding family team of Lolita's Mexican Food, to discuss combining their passion for food and Komen into an extraordinary opportunity to raise money for women diagnosed with breast cancer. They discuss the need to raise more money for research and supportive services for the six women each day diagnosed with breast cancer in San Diego. This year a record number of 80 restaurants are participating in Dine Out For The Cure on October 17th.
Nicole Miller-Coleman, the Executive Director of the San Diego Museum Council, joined by Kerri Fox of The New Children's Museum and Theresa Smullen of the Maritime Museum, discuss the collaboration among the San Diego museums participating in the "Kids Free October." They also share some of the amazing new exhibits and activities taking place at their museums!
Michael Rennie, the President & CEO of the acclaimed Poway OnStage, discusses a stellar 2019-20 season with the expectation of fast sellouts. From Melissa Etheridge and Monterrey '67 Revisited to Rosanne Cash and the Winter Dance Party, a tribute to Buddy Holly, Richie Valens and The Big Bopper, the new season is a spectacular. Michael also discusses their Arts In Education program for schools.
Gene Jennett of Wounded Warrior Homes, discusses how they focus on preventing the cycle of homelessness for soldiers suffering from PTSD and TBI. By providing housing and services before the cycle of homelessness begins, higher success and lower costs become possible. Gene also discusses the upcoming "Pints for Patriots" event on November 9, 2019.
Denise Mahaffey and Jessica Chandler, co-founders of Trinity Global Enterprises, joined by Dino Changanaqui and Dr. Judy Mikovits, discuss the emerging health care crisis with marijuana growing practices due to Substrate Transmitted Diseases and the need for mandatory Certificates of Analysis from growers and the supply chain.
Simona Valanciute, President & CEO of San Diego Oasis, and Judy Lewis, an Oasis Board Member, talk about the more than 3,000 workshops the organization hosts for more than 5,000 active participants to advance lifelong learning and active lifestyles among older adults.
Liam Dunfey, Director of Major Gifts and Planned Giving for St. Paul’s Senior Services, is joined by Kelly Lapadula, Community Outreach Specialist, to chat about the organization’s free education workshops series.
Connie Matsui, Vice President of Community Impact at The San Diego Foundation, discusses the nearly $460,000 in grants to improve and increase the number of natural amenities in underserved communities in the county. Matsui is joined by Roxanne Avant, Executive Director at Urban Surf 4 Kids, and Sara Hutmacher, Senior Associate Director at the San Diego River Park Foundation.
Len Hering, Executive Director of I Love A Clean San Diego, talks about the 74 tons of trash that was picked up throughout the county on the annual Coastal Cleanup Day on September 21. Hering discusses the organization’s 65th Anniversary benefit event that will be held Thursday, November 7 onboard the William D. Evans Sternwheeler.
Allison Moorhead, Vice President of the San Diego Turtle and Tortoise Society Board of Directors, is joined by Board Secretary, Debbie Sherrell, to discuss the Society’s mission to foster and adopt out relinquished turtles and tortoises.
Hillary Theakston, Executive Director of The Clearity Foundation, and Chris Grint, Committee Chair of the Foundation’s recent “Teal Woman Celebration” fundraiser, talk about the Foundation’s focus on improving the survival and quality of life of women with ovarian cancer.
Mike McCarthy, Senior Vice President for UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement in California, chats about National Medicare Awareness Week and its mission to educate the populace about Medicare.
Georgeanne Irvine, Author and Director of Corporate Publishing at San Diego Zoo Global Press, discusses Global Press’s goal to help fight extinction. Irvine talks about the books she has authored, including her latest book: Mosi Musa: A True Tale About a Monkey Raised By His Grandma.
Maurice Wilson, President-Executive Director of Reboot Workshop, and Eve Nasby of the San Diego Veteran’s Coalition, discuss the daylong Saturday, September 14, 2019 Military, Veterans, and Spouse Workforce Readiness Summit and Resource Fair at Liberty Station.
Virgo Villajin, Youth Services Coordinator for Just in Time For Foster Youth (JIT), is joined by Brooke LaFrance, President of the San Diego County Public Defender Community Outreach Committee, to discuss the Saturday, September 14 Casino Royale benefit at the San Diego Museum of Natural History in Balboa Park. Villajin chats about JIT’s programs and services.
Stephanie Kiesel, CEO of zero8Hundred, talks about her organization’s early intervention work with those in the military who will be joining the civilian ranks after their military service.
Richie Coleman, Colonel USMC (Ret.), an Advisory Committee Member for the Fifth Annual GI Film Festival, is joined by filmmaker Jeanne Scott to chat about the festival that will run from September 24 through 27 at the Museum of Photographic Arts in Balboa Park and September 28 and 29 at UltraStar Cinemas at Hazard Center.
Author Chad Stewart, discusses his first novel, Britfield & the Lost Crown, and next week’s national book tour that will take him to 16 state.
Heidi Lang, Executive Director of the March of Dimes San Diego, is joined by Marta Bills, Director of Maternal and Child Health for San Diego and Inland Empire, chat about the organization’s mission to reduce premature birth, the largest contributor of infant death. Lang and Bills are joined by Crystal Sargent, Chair of the “Signature Chef’s Gala,” slated for Sunday, October 6 at the Del Mar Race Track. Sargent discusses what attendees can expect at of San Diego’s best culinary events.
Steve Govett, President of the San Diego Seals Lacrosse Team, and Stefani Polonia, Senior Account Executive, talk about the great vibe the Seals generated in its inaugural 2018-2019 year, as the team looks to replicate its success on and off the field for the upcoming 2019-2020 season.
Tonya Mantooth, CEO and Artistic Director for the San Diego International Film Festival, is joined by Festival Board Member, Naila Chowdhurry, to discuss the nationally recognized Festival that will run from October 15-20.
Donnie Dee, President & CEO of the San Diego Rescue Mission, is joined by the Allegra Vieux, the organization’s Marketing & Events Coordinator, talk about the Rescue Mission’s 12th Annual “Sleepless San Diego” fundraiser that will take place September 7 and 8 at Liberty Station.
Adrian Vore, a Section Editor of The San Diego Union-Tribune, discusses his role as the newspaper’s Readers Representative.
Sidd Vivek, President & CEO of Junior Achievement San Diego, chats about the organization’s focus on preparing students for the real world through its myriad programs. Vivek discusses the two of the companies upcoming signature events: BizTown and Finance Park.
Jill Drexler, Artistic Director for the Scripps Ranch Theatre, is joined by Ted Leib, Artistic Director for the Oceanside Theatre Company, to talk about their organizations’ co-production of Foxfire.
Billy Moore, President of the ABC Foundation, is joined by Terence Shigg, the Foundation’s COO, to discuss the Foundation’s focus on working with underrepresented youth in Southeast San Diego. Moore, the son of San Diego icon Archie Moore, a World Light Heavyweight Champion Boxer, talks about the Foundation’s after-school boxing, tutoring and mentoring program.
Melissa Grove, Founder and President of Rock n’ Roll Camp for Girls San Diego, discusses her weeklong summer empowerment camp that culminates the campers performance at the House of Blues.
Dr. Luis Ibarra, Superintendent of the Escondido Union School District, talks about the district’s reputation as a state and national technology and innovation leader.
Bob Kelly, President & CEO of San Diego Seniors Community Foundation, and Joe Gavin, Chief Programs and Community Engagement Officer for the Foundation, talk about state of senior centers in our region and the Foundation’s mission to build stronger community support for the county’s older adults.
Author Mina Samuels describes her evolution from a Human Rights attorney to prolific writer to serious runner. Samuels discusses her latest book, Run Like A Girl 365 Days a Year: A Practical, Personal, Inspirational Guide for Women Athletes.
Jeanne McAlister, President, CEO and Founder of the McAlister Institute, talks about her organizations 42 years of leadership in the area of addiction recovery. McAlister, who is celebrating her 62nd year of sobriety, is joined by Michelle DeForrest, the Institute’s Kiva Learning Center for Women & Children Counselor. McAlister and DeForrest discuss the Institute’s 7th Annual 5K Walk for Sobriety that will be held on Sunday, August 25 at Liberty Station.
Laura Tancredi-Baese, CEO of Home Start, Inc., is joined by newly elected Home Start Board President Cameron Clarke to chat about the organization’s mission and services, and upcoming events.
Katie Sawyer, Executive Director of the San Diego Women’s Foundation (SDWF) and Susan Howe, President of the SDWF Board, talk about the just announced 2020-2021 grant funding cycle that will focus on Refugees, Asylees and Asylum Seekers. Sawyer and Howe discuss the Collective Philanthropy model, along with the Grants Kickoff Reception slated for Wednesday, August 28 at AMN Healthcare in Del Mar.
Gerald McFadden, President & CEO of Volunteers of America Southwest (VOASW), and Jim Mulvaney, Jr., longtime San Diego community leader and VOASW Advisor, talk about the myriad programs and services of the organization, including the 20th Annual Celebrity Golf Classic that will be held Monday, September 16 at the County Club of Rancho Bernardo. Proceeds from the Classic will benefit homeless and disabled veterans.
Jenna Phillips Ballard and Brad Phillips, Co-Founders of the Ascension Leadership Academy (ALA), are joined by Bernard Mauricia, CEO of The Seany Foundation, to discuss ALA’s emotional intelligence and leadership trainings that supported the Foundation’s mission to bring hope and happiness to families affected by cancer.
Jeffrey Sitcov, President & Founder of Doors of Change, and Joanne Newgard, Program Director for the organization’s “Taking Music & Arts to the Streets” (TMATS) program, chat about transforming the lives of homeless youth through their programs and events. Sitcov and Newgard talk about the August 25 fundraiser at the Belly Up Tavern featuring the popular Atomic Groove musical group.
Laura Ann Fernea, Executive Director of the City Heights Community Development Corporation, is joined by Miriam Rodriguez, a Corporation Board Member, to discuss the organization’s laser-beamed focus on enhancing all facets of City Heights life and culture.
Wendy Taylor, Executive Director of the San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum, discusses the Museum’s meteoric growth through its Museum’s for All program and Mobile Children’s Museum.
Kristen Fogle, Executive Director of San Diego Writers, Inc., shares the stage with Director Levi Kaplan and actors Adam Cupper and Randy Huft in Steven Dietz’ Lonely Planet play.
Gordon and Joyce Summer, Producers of the 8th Annual U.S. Sand Sculpting Challenge & Dimensional Art Exposition, chat about their August 31-September 2 event at Broadway Pier that features jaw-dropping massive sand sculptures.
Dr. Nieca Goldberg, a nationally recognized cardiologist and author (Complete Guide to Women’s Health), talks about strokes and stroke prevention.
Celeste Miranda, CEO and Founders of MACE Media Group, chats about her organization’s mission to disseminate the most accurate and current information about CBD Research. Miranda discusses MACE’s CannaFarm Con event that is slated for August 1-2 at the Paradise Point Resort in San Diego.
Renato Paiva, Executive Director of Access Youth Academy, is joined by Susan Taylor, an Access Youth Academy Board member, to talk about the extraordinary success of the Academy that makes a 12-year commitment to underserved students beginning in 7th grade and ending after their college years.
Gary Grossman, Co-Author of the international thriller RED Hotel, chats about the high octane book that incorporates the elements of a hair-raising suspense novel -- terrorism; espionage; Russian involvement – much of it based on real-life events.
John Montieth, Founder and Executive Director of Adapt Functional Movement Center, is joined by Eric Glader, Co-Founder and CEO of PowerDot, In., discuss how they have collaborated to help those diagnosed with neurodegenerative conditions, such as MS.
Veronica Murphy, Artistic Director of Write Out Loud, is joined by Pamela Brittain, a teacher and performer for the organization, talk about the production of the 10th Annual TwainFest that will be held on August 17 at Old Town Park. Murphy and Brittain discuss Write Out Loud’s Story Concert Season 13 and NEA’s annual BIG READ program.
Claire Groebner, Director of Development for the Olivewood Gardens & Learning Center, chats about the Center’s mission, programs and events.
Debbie McKeon, President and CEO of San Diego Grantmakers, talks about how San Diego’s business and philanthropy scene is different from those in other regions and cities of the United States. McKeon discusses how long-standing ideas about charity and corporate philanthropy are changing across the country.