Scripps Ranch News - April 2024

Irish dancer returns from international competition

AScripps Ranch High School Junior got the experience of a lifetime this March as she flew to Glasgow, Scot land, to show off her talent. Layla Giles, 16, has been Irish dancing for the past 12 years of her life and made it to the World Irish Dance Cham pionships – Oireachtas Rince na Cruinne 2024, where she competed.

“I have been dancing for 12 years, and it’s just always been something that I’ve loved,” Giles said. “I’ve tried many other sports, but I’ve always just wanted to Irish dance. It’s always been my main hobby.”

‘Princess What’s Her Name’

Alively and talented cast of student actors from Dingeman Elementary School has been rehearsing for a production of “Princess What’s Her Name.” This play is being produced, directed and choreographed by Dingeman Elementary School teachers Garner Saguil (fifth grade) and Antonette Harris (fourth grade). “Princess What’s Her Name” will be performed at the Dingeman Elementary School auditorium on Wednesday, April 24 at 6:30 p.m. The event is free of charge and open to the public. In addition, the student actors are performing daytime assemblies for Dingeman Elementary School students throughout the week starting April 22.

Giles has been training hard for most of her life, as she has dreamed of making it to the big league from an early age. She dreams of one day performing with the Irish performance group that hosts Riverdance and being part of the professional group.

“It’s a very active sport. It’s very competitive, and I would consider it more of a sport than an art sometimes because it takes a lot of effort and training to do what we do,” Giles said. “It’s amazing to see all these dancers do it so effortlessly, and I look up to that.”

Outside of school, she trains

for that and not get too behind in school.”

The hours of practice can pay off for those who are dedicated and competing in the sport. There are multiple heats before a dancer can qualify for Worlds, which Giles did. First, there are regionals that usually take place in November, then on to compete in nationals for those who advance, and that usually happens during the

Scripps Ranch Symphony in the Park announces summer concert line-up

The Scripps Ranch Symphony in the Park organization is a non-profit group that produces free concerts on the second Sunday of each month from June to September for the community of Scripps Ranch. Each concert is sponsored by a local business.

The first concert this summer is set for June 9 and will feature Back to the Garden.

“The concert will be sponsored by The Glen, a senior living community in Scripps Ranch. The band will be featuring their ‘California Dreaming’ show,” Scripps Ranch Symphony in the Park President Rachel Votel said.

The second concert will feature DSB on July 14. The band is a tribute to Journey and the show will be sponsored by U.S. Bank.

The Heroes will be performing on Aug. 11, sponsored by Collins Family Jewelers.

The final show of the summer will feature Full Strength on Sept. 8.

“The band will be performing funk, and current hits,” Votel said. “The last show will be sponsored by San Diego Castles Realty.”

The free concerts begin at 6 p.m.

“We always start with a warm-up act. Sometimes that means that a local band is performing. Other times, scholarships are presented

for students by the Old Pros organization,” speaker and board member Steve Fiorina said.

“We also donate money to the music programs at local schools from the dona tion drives that we do at the beginning of the year,” Votel said.

The main scheduled bands perform until 7:30 p.m.

“We have a lot of variety in the bands that perform. In the past, we have had mili tary bands, church bands and more,” Fiorina said. “Most of our bands end up playing some sort of rockand-roll. Some of the bands have a twist of country. Even though the genre of music is relatively consistent, they

DANCER

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summer. If dancers are lucky enough to be a part of the one percent that make the quali fications, they advance to the Worlds that occur in March.

“It’s always been my dream to World qualify and I just can’t believe it’s a reality right now,” Giles said. “Ever since I was four years old, I saw the girls on Riverdance and how dedicated they were to this art and sport. I just knew that that’s what I wanted to do, and I wanted that to be me. I’m thrilled and grateful for every oppor tunity I’ve had to get this far.”

Giles was not the only one from her studio to qualify to make it to Worlds this year, and was happy to see so many people from America representing Irish dance.

“I was one of three girls from our studio in San Diego, but there were many other girls all over in the States to also represent America,” Giles said. “The competition was just unreal, and there were so many amazing dancers from all over the world. It was really cool to see all these different countries come together and do a hobby that we all love to do.”

Overall, the challenge was

as competitive as Giles had thought. But she was beyond proud of herself to make it as far as she did in the qualifications.

“It’s just amazing to see the dancing on stage,” Giles said. “You have to have the posture and the look. You have to smile throughout your dancing and make it seem like you’re having fun, even when you’re out of breath. The entire thing is just a blast, especially at the level we are dancing at.”

‘It’s always been my dream to World qualify and I just can’t believe it’s a reality.’

—Layla Giles

After the competition was over and done with, Giles placed 65th overall in the world in her category. This experience has only made her want to train harder to get to Worlds again and compete for a higher title.

“After seeing how amazing of an opportunity this is, I realized that I want it again and to experience it all over again,” Giles said.

The most exciting piece of it all for Giles is that the Riverdance Summer School program in Boston has accepted her to train this July to further her dream.

“I’m actually going to the Riverdance summer school in Boston now that I’ve met the qualifications,” Giles said. “I’m just going to train for Worlds again, and I’m going to train for, hopefully, the day I’ll be able to go on to Riverdance, like my dream that I had when I was four years old.”

Wo rk continues on the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library parking lot expansion. The upper lot has been paved and striped, and it should be ready for use soon pending some additional landscaping and installation of lighting. Then work will begin on the lower lot, which will be more extensive.

The number of on-site park ing spaces is very limited. Thus, those who are physically able are encouraged to utilize the overflow parking along Meanley Drive which also includes more than 30 spaces in the water department parking lot and can be accessed from Meanley Drive just before entering the small roundabout. Map and directions: www.srfol.org/lib-lochours.htm.

Grace’s Book Nook

Visit Grace’s Book Nook, the volunteer-run used bookstore in the library, for bargains on gently used and nearly new books, magazines, DVDs, CDs, (new) greeting cards and more. It is open Mondays through Saturdays. Stock is frequently updated, so stop by often.

The Book Nook also stocks special floating duck food which children and adults alike can enjoy using to feed the ducks and other waterfowl living at Evans Pond, adjacent to the library.

The next Second Saturday “pop-up” book sale is on May 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with expanded inventory and shopping area for your browsing pleasure.

Seeking book donations

Tax-deductible donations of “gently used” books are always welcome and can be brought to the library’s circulation desk. Or, if needed, a staff member or volunteer will be happy to assist transferring your boxes or bags of books from your vehicle into the library. The

Book Nook will help find new, loving homes for your donated books, and you’ll be supporting the library. At this time, the Book Nook is especially seeking donations of fiction and nonfiction for adults. Receipts for tax purposes are provided.

Seeking volunteers

If you love books and/or the library, like to meet interesting people, and/or would like to find a fun way to “give back,” the Book Nook currently has openings for volunteers. Email booknook@ srfol.org to learn more about opportunities with the Book Nook team.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 18, for an open house at Fire Station 37, 11640 Spring Canyon Road, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Meet the firefighters, check out the fire engines and pick up material for fire safety.

Tips to prepare for disaster

If you look up the definition of fear, there are thousands of definitions. The best way to dispel fear is to be prepared. Do everything you can to be prepared for whatever it is you fear. Here are 10 home preparedness tips to help you be prepared for a disaster of any type:

• Know how and where to shut off utilities (gas, water, electricity)

• Prevent potential hazards (secure heavy items, latches on cabinet doors)

• Surround your home with defensible space and fire resistant plants/landscaping

• Review your insurance coverage for adequate replacement costs

• Check smoke/carbon monoxide detectors monthly, re-

• Make your house fire resistant (roofs, walls, chimneys, deck, fences) and remove excess flammable junk around their make, model numbers, etc.

eep a battery operated radio with extra batteries to tore your home’s disaster cation and take it with you.

To learn more about the Scripps Ranch Fire Safe Council, visit www.srfiresafe. org, email srfiresafecouncil@ gmail.com or call (858) 2012711.

LIFE

Resilient food system talk

Save the date: Sunday, June 2, for a presentation organized by Peter Ruddock, an advocate for good food policy, which creates a more resilient food system. He provides entrepreneurs with support, guidance and resources on how to work within the law, and celebrates those businesses that thrive within it. Look for venue and further details in the May issue.

—Sustainable Scripps Ranch

Welcome Club keeps life busy and fun

Scripps Ranch celebrates Country Living as its motto, but it is a busy place for many local women. There is an enticing menu of activities that are lots of fun for Scripps Ranch Welcome Club members.

The month of April has more than 20 events on the club’s calendar. As always, there is a variety of activities to select from to brighten up all parts of the day.

Mornings start with trail walks, book discussions or monthly coffee gatherings. A newly formed group will be hiking trails around the county starting this month. Nancy Hurwitz has organized the women to begin with a hike that leads to the waterfall in nearby Penasquitos Canyon. She plans on leading hikes on trails around the county as the group grows.

Monthly, a coffee gathering brings the women together for a brunch and conversation at a volunteer hostess’s home. A team of co-hostesses share their culinary skills and delight their friends with dishes that bring them back

The regular Welcome Club meeting routinely offers education, entertainment and a dessert social.

month after month.

Afternoons offer members the craft group, an occasional trip to lunch and a movie, and another opportunity to share a book talk. This month, organizer Pam Savelsberg picked

• Week long full day schedule, 7:30am-5:30pm.

• Choose between traditional camps, themed camps, o -site day camps.

• Open to members and nonmembers

• Held at our Aviary club.

cation, entertainment and a dessert social. This month, Cinnamon Sharpe, a lady with many years of entertaining experience, shared her life story as a pianist, jazz singer and movie actress. Her story included the saga of her grandmother’s walking away from a life of slavery in the South, and on through the years of Cinnamon’s career in New York, and finally to her daughter’s contribution to the musical score of the movie “The Color Purple.”

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the movie “Wicked Little Letters” to provide lots of laughs for the ladies.

Some evenings provide a Bunco game. Also on the schedule, is the savoring of a potluck dinner and enjoying a performance at Scripps Ranch Theatre that is organized by Bev Macho. A group of members enjoyed “Stew” at the theatre after their own delectables at Alan Binks’s home this month.

The regular Welcome Club meeting routinely offers edu-

During warmer weather, what is known as a TGI brings club members and friends together for BYO drinks and food to share at an outdoor gathering at a member’s home. These seasonal events will begin soon on the warmer weekends.

More innovative ideas and unique opportunities to keep one’s social life enjoyable will be realized as new leadership assumes their roles later in the spring.

The Welcome Club has a website with more details on how to become part of the fun that is a Scripps Ranch tradition: scrippsranchwelcomeclub.com.

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• Open to all skill levels

• Open to members only

• Held at our Trails club courts

April kept us busy as we began wrapping up our community outreach programs for the year. Our Scholarship Committee started the rewarding process of reviewing applications from graduating high school senior girls in advance of interviewing the outstanding finalists. Board members began reviewing applications for funding from local schools and Scripps Ranch community groups.

In May, a final determination will be made as to the amount of funding awarded for individual scholarships as well as for local schools and the community. This effort to support our Scripps Ranch community, which is a primary focal point of our club and part of our legacy, will be culminating this year with multiple awards in June.

Membership becomes the center of attention for the Women’s Club from now through July. A Mother’s Day Luncheon is planned for May 9 at the Brigantine Restaurant where we will introduce new members and welcome

prospective club members. This is a celebration of our membership where we foster our connections and friendships, and we enjoy becoming better acquainted with both our new and prospective members.

The Women’s Club Mother’s Day Luncheon officially kicks off our annual Membership Renewal drive which runs through July. During this time, we also promote and encourage new members to join us.

Club highlights this month included a tour of the WNDR Museum, which provided a unique, multi-sensory expe-

rience combining art and technology, and a Downtown Waterfront Walking Tour. This is a favorite area to walk surrounded by the beautiful San Diego skyline, the blue Embarcadero waters, gentle breezes and colorful sights.

Our Theatre Group was in high spirits with the opportunity to revel in an evening at the theatre featuring “Stew,” a highly acclaimed play about the family dynamics among three generations of women. Of course, theatre night always starts with a party! A popular Pre-Theatre Cocktail Party was held at the home of Krissy and Eric

Palmer. Thank you, Krissy and Eric for sharing your amazing home and hospitality with us!

The Women’s Club works diligently to ensure that our club provides something for everyone to enjoy. As such, we encourage our members to find their “niche” of interests and social activities that appeal to them. New members inspire us, and we are always looking to expand our slate of activities and programs. If you are interested in joining a fun and versatile group, and have ideas for starting new social activities, we are always re-

ceptive. This is how several of our new groups started in the last few years, with members sparking ideas for American Mahjong, Fun and Games, Arts and Culture, and most recently, Scrabble. So, bring your ideas and join us! Our club provides a place of connection and inspiration for women of all ages, backgrounds and interests. We look forward to meeting you!

The easiest way to learn about the Women’s Club is by contacting our Membership Chair Laurie Wenger at lauriewenger@hotmail.com or visiting our website at srwomensclub.org.

SYMPHONY

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There are around 1,500 members of the community that come out for the concerts for each Sunday performance.

“We have a lot of members of the community come out because of the wide range of music played. The Glen actually brings some of the members of their residential community to the concert by a bus so that they can enjoy it as well,” Fiorina said.

Many members of the community come out during the day to have picnics at the park, and then stay for the concert.

“It is a community event. Everyone is very respectful of each other. People bring low-back chairs so that those behind them can see. People bring cloth blankets because tarps hurt the grass. Every-

‘Within just a couple of minutes of the band playing, there are already people up and dancing together.’

—Rachel Votel

one cleans up their trash,” Fiorina said.

Next year will be 40 years since the organization was formed.

“When the organization was formed, the whole goal was to get people together. The mission of the organization hasn’t changed, and we have been doing a great job of achieving our goal,” Votel said. “You may not know the people you are sitting next to, but by the end of the concert you will. There are a lot of con-

nections that happen. Within just a couple of minutes of the band playing, there are already people up and dancing together.”

For more information as well as details on how to contribute to the organization, visit symphonyinthepark. org.

“We can’t wait for people to come out this year,” Fiorina said. “Your blanket is your ticket!”

Information on how to make your garden grow is available to be borrowed from the Scripps-Mesa Garden Club’s book lending library as you walk toward the entrance to Walter Anderson’s Nursery in Poway. Borrow a book, do your research, and then return the book for others. (courtesy photo)

Good tools make gardening easier

While the rewards are great, gardening can be a demanding hobby if you don’t have the right tools. Digging holes, trimming branches, irrigating flower beds and distributing fertilizer all call for the help of well-maintained equipment.

Local gardeners have found the guidance they might need to make their everyday chores easier. Jodi Bay will be sharing her knowledge of selecting and maintaining the best tools to help make gardens flourish with less effort on the gardener’s part. She will be the featured speaker at the Scripps-Mesa Garden Club meeting at the local library’s Community Room on April 23 at 6 p.m.

In the coming warmer months, the club will be holding outdoor meetings in local gardens. Observing the results of their neighbors efforts with trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetables is a relaxing and rewarding way to learn more about how to be successful working with local soil and climate conditions.

The local garden club members share their experiences with anyone who is interested in learning more on their website: scrippmesagardenclub.com.

Don’t expect a free meal or a long, drawn-out meeting if you attend a Super Fun Philanthropic Chicks of Scripps Ranch fundraiser.

Instead, you’ll experience a no-frills get-together four times a year where writing checks to help non-profits takes center stage.

Its mission: “We connect like-minded women together to enrich our local community by bringing financial support and awareness to groups that are making a difference and inspiring others to create the change they wish to see in the world.”

In March, the Chicks celebrated its 10th anniversary by giving $2,000 to the First Gen Scholars, a group created to serve low-income students in San Diego who would be the first in their families to attend college in the United States.

In the past decade, group member Pam Pond said the Chicks have helped 29 local non-profits and raised more than $60,000 toward helping others in the San Diego community.

The Chicks are Pond, Beth Nastrini, Victoria Muschek and Carolyn Burns – all

friends who have come together to help others. Additionally, there are about 100 women on the list, and 20-plus who typically attend the get-togethers.

The Chicks will meet again on May 8 from 7 to 8 p.m. at Crown Pointe Clubhouse in the Ranch and give donations to S.T.E.P. (Support The Enlisted Project), an organization that helps military families.

“S.T.E.P. builds financial self-sufficiency among junior active-duty enlisted service members and recently discharged enlisted veterans and their families in Southern California facing financial crisis through counseling, education and grants,” according to the S.T.E.P. website.

The Super Fun Philanthropic Chicks of Scripps Ranch became reality after Pond went to a meeting 10 years ago and there was “no restaurant bill, and we were just learning about a nonprofit that was just literally helping people out and giving with nothing in return. I thought it was such a good feeling after,” Pond said. “I came back to Scripps Ranch, and I thought why not do it here?”

She asked her friends if

they would come if it was held in their own backyard, and they all agreed.

“What we do is we give back via financial assistance to a non-profit that needs it,” Pond said.

“We choose a range from individuals fighting cancer or needing money to fix the backyard to whatever reaches our heart,” said Pond, who teaches fifth grade at Jerabek Elementary School.

“There are no frills, but people come to give money, see each other and feel good,” she said. “It always feels amazing and makes you grateful for all you have afterward. Just show up and bring your checkbook, there’s no membership.”

If people cannot attend the meetings, they can drop off checks before the meetings, she said.

“We have a big donor who gives $1,000, comes and listens, does not socialize, puts checks in the basket, says ‘thanks,’ and leaves,” Pond said.

Donations range from $50 to $100 and a few thousand is collected each time. Also, Yanni and Denis Pihas from Yanni’s Bar & Grill support the Chicks by giving $25 gift cards which Pond said is “more than generous.”

Expect ‘Vanity Fair’ to be joyful fun

Scripps Ranch Theatre is hosting its production of “Vanity Fair” beginning May 23 and running on weekends to June 16.

“‘Vanity Fair” was written by Kate Hamill who is known for taking historical fiction and transforming it into something more whimsical and comedic. She has done this with a couple of Jane Austen stories, and more,” director Jacquelyn Ritz said.

The story is set in the 1830s in London.

“Through this production, we follow two women from very different paths of life. We get to watch how their decisions, choices and actions affect them. We get to see the two women reflect on their lives as the production goes on,” Ritz said.

Becky Sharp, played by Alyssa Austin, is a clever, power-driven woman.

“Becky comes from nothing, but she is all about getting stuff done. She is adaptable; she has a brain and charm; she does everything with flair. However, she is judged for the way she acts,” Ritz said.

Amelia Sedley, played by Mikaela Macias, is the pictureperfect young woman.

“Amelia comes from a wellto-do family. She does everything right; she does what a young lady is supposed to do. However, we find that she is not always sure about the choices she made throughout her life,” Ritz said.

The manager, played by Dagmar Fields, is the best friend of the audience.

“The manager sits down with the audience and asks us about what we are seeing. The manager will ask if we agree with the choices made by the characters, or whether we think the characters will like the outcomes of their choices,” Ritz said.

All the other actors play

characters such as husbands, lovers, fathers and other women.

In addition to the storyline, there will be a musical element to the show.

“This is not a musical, but there will be a heavy musical component. All of the actors are making the music themselves. It is going to be a blast,” Ritz said. “There will be the joy of a musical. I feel that music elevates things, which is why I wanted to include that in this production.”

Despite the joy of the production, Ritz does anticipate

a novel that kept building on itself. We are also trying to include music, dancing and a whimsical set,” she said. “I know we will get everything done, and it will turn out fantastic.”

She is looking forward to the audience viewing this production.

“I had originally pitched this play before COVID had hit. We were supposed to run

it in the spring of that year, but we pushed it off,” Ritz said. “We are finally getting to run this play. I am so excited because there is lots of music and dancing. It is whimsical, and funny. The audience is going to love how it keeps you on the edge of your seat.”

“Vanity Fair” will be held on the campus of Alliant International University. Visit scrippsranchtheatre. org.

cripps Ranch musician Steve Wolff, 66, is proof that Rock ’n’ Roll will never fade.

Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Wolff has been making music since he was a teen in London, and he hasn’t stopped.

He is known to play solo as well as with other musicians in two groups: “Duo” and “Wolff,” which is a trio that plays iconic pop/rock from the 1960s through the present.

No stranger to playing music, Wolff began solo in 2006, added the duo act in 2010, and the trio in 2015.

“I played – and continue to play – at local San Diego bars and clubs all over the county, most recently solo, with my band, Wolff (www. wolff.rocks), and with a couple of other bands where I play bass for more variety,” he said.

Why become a musician?

“I got an education when I was in my late teens from my neighbor in London, a professional drummer who played with Roger Daltrey of The Who, The Kinks, The

Zombies, and loads of tracks in the early rock era,” he said. “You’d be surprised who he played for … I was intrigued, and my brother was interested, too, in becoming a professional drummer, but he never did.”

Wolff said his neighbor also told him, “It’s a brutal job, and there are two things you need to know as a musician: You’re better off having music as a hobby and a real job rather than trying to make music a real job; and do realize the amount of practice you need daily.”

These tips didn’t faze Wolff even when his neighborhood friend added, “Amateur musicians practice until they get it right and professional musicians practice until they cannot get it wrong.”

His parents thought the

music was a temporary thing, and they weren’t worried about Wolff since he was attending boarding school and had good grades, he said.

“We had a room at home where we played. I don’t know how they put up with it, all the bashing about all the time,” Wolff said. “Any time my parents stopped me from playing music was when they wanted me to learn the violin, which lasted a week … Mom said ‘you need to choose a different instrument’ … they were tolerant … But I was never going to be a concert violinist.”

Musically, Wolff remained dedicated.

Wolff grew up in London but has spent many years in California, and in 2000 he got into Stanford on a scholarship to work on a master’s degree. But things turned and, with no work permit and needing a way to supplement his living expenses, he formed a band and played at frat and dorm parties.

He enjoyed playing live and his bands “introduced” such sounds as New Wave and Alternative ’80s music to Stanford, Wolff said.

He continued to study and would later land a job in Silicon Valley as an engineer, project manager and in various VP roles in a startup company that “developed the first bomb-detection technologies for screening bags at airports.”

After 911, Wolff got pinkslipped after the Department of Homeland Security formed and he became a consultant for other Homeland Security technology companies worldwide. This gave him more time for his music.

During the COVID pandemic, he kept busy and got into live-streaming solo performances and writing and recording original songs (lyrically focused on various events that occurred during COVID-19).

“I also got into video editing, creating rock videos to go along with them, which are on my YouTube Channel (youtube.com/@WolffLive)” he said.

Fast forward, and other than some consulting on occasion, it’s all about the music now.

“I’d like to get to the point where I could make some CDs even though people aren’t listening to CDs much anymore,” he said. “I’m just one song short of another CD and I want to get back to the original music, and I want to release an online album.”

Mom and son bond over cookies

Like most young boys, Oliver Donavan, 9, loves the beach as well as tasty cookies.

When he’s not enjoying the sandy shores, playing soccer and doing all kinds of other activities with his mom, Laura, he’s designing the packaging for her cookie business – Oli’s Cookies Company. The cookies are available at the Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market.

The company offers everything from snickerdoodle and chocolate chip, to the most popular limoncello. The business was founded in November 2022.

Laura said it all began after her son was diagnosed with autism in 2018 and she had to leave her career as a chef to become a full-time caregiver.

pany.com where there is “always free shipping,” and at the Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market on Thursdays.

Mom’s other mission, besides whipping up scrumptious cookies, is to spread awareness about autism.

“I learned he had autism and I had to start making plans and come up with ideas for my son’s future,” she said. “I was giving my cookies to friends and family, and they loved them. They thought the cookies were delicious and asked why I wasn’t selling them. So, I thought, ‘why not?’ and began selling and advertising them through social media.”

Thus began her journey of understanding the world of autism and how best to raise Oliver while making cookies in her kitchen.

Today, she bakes daily, and Oli helps with the artistic side of things, which keeps mom and son working together.

“He’s got a real artistic gift,” she said.

Some images on the packaging include a heart, a cookie monster, and a surfer, among other colorful creatures known as “Oli’s Cookie Crew.”

The plant-based cookies sell for $18 a dozen and can be bought online at oliscookiecom -

“I welcome other parents who have kids who are autis tic to discuss, ask questions, and share their thoughts and stories with me,” she said.

A single mother with three other adult kids, she recently hired her daughter-in-law as head baker.

Another way mom and son bond is by going to Maui on vacation once a year, she said.

“We’ve been going since he was 6 months old, and it’s his happy place,” she said. “He loves the ocean more than anything and connects with the island. It’s also where I can let everything go and we can reconnect, and regroup … no therapy, just us.”

Laura stressed that through Oli’s Cookies Company, she wants to continue spreading awareness to those who need it.

“Oli’s Cookies are created to spread awareness and, while I do donate to various groups and charities that help autism, I do Oli’s Cookies on a personal level,” she said.

The ultimate goal down the road is to create jobs for those on the spectrum and someday have a storefront with a workshop in the back.

“It is my goal to be able to continue to expose Oli to many new adventures and help him thrive in life while spreading autism awareness and acceptance one delicious cookie at a time,” she said.

Visit the Oli’s Cookies Company booth at the Scripps Ranch Farmer’s Market, held from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. each Thursday at 10045 Carroll Canyon Road.

Clarinet-piano concert at the library

The “Pleasure of Your Company” music series will welcome clarinetist Vladimir Goltsman and pianist Dmitry Kirichenko on Sunday, May 19, at 2:30 p.m. in the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center. Join us for a delightful afternoon of music for clarinet and piano including works from the Baroque through Romantic eras and beyond. A native of Russia, Goltsman was trained at the Gnessin Music Institute of Moscow, where he studied with the renowned maestro professor Ivan Mozgovenko. Well known to Scripps Ranch audiences,

Dmitry Kirichenko is a graduate of the Moscow and Odessa conservatories. He has performed throughout western and eastern Europe and the San Diego area.

There is no charge for the concert, which is sponsored by the Scripps Ranch Friends of the Library, although donations are appreciated.

Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center is located at 10301 Scripps Lake Drive. Overflow parking is available on Meanley Drive off Scripps Ranch Boulevard, from which the library can be accessed via a paved walkway. Visit srfol.org or call (858) 538-8158.

Jerabek Elementary School is preparing for its annual westernthemed Ranch Round Up community celebration and fundraiser, scheduled for May 17, 3:05 to 7 p.m. on the school campus blacktop and adjoining open space.

The Jerabek Family Faculty Organization (FFO) produces the event. Co-chairs for the second year in a row are Caroline Han and Leslie Roach

“I originally got involved because it’s both my sons’ favorite Jerabek event and I just wanted to make sure it was a success,” Han said. “Leslie was excited about it again, too. We know what we are doing, so we’re very excited to come back and make it happen again.”

The Round Up will offer 10 inflatables for kids, pony rides, Musical Cakes, opportunity boxes, a silent auction, food and a Jerabek student talent show.

The entire Scripps Ranch community is invited, and admission is free. Tickets for any of the activities can be purchased once inside the event. Those attending can

pay for tickets and wrist bands using cash or Venmo. Wrist bands for unlimited access for the 10 bouncy inflatables will cost $25 on the day of the event.

As always, there will be an abundance of booths offering fun activities. A highlight will be the pony rides. There will also be an area in which children can brush the ponies and decorate them. Tickets for carnival games or pony rides will cost $10 for 15 tickets.

Teacher Date tickets for Jerabek students who want to enter the raffle to spend extra time outside of the classroom with their favorite teacher will be $5.

Cake walks have been a longtime hit at American community and school carnivals over the years. The Ranch Round Up offers Musical

Cakes, which is similar.

“We have had that since the beginning, I think, and it has been a favorite event. If you win Musical Cakes, you get to pick whichever cake you like,” Han explained. “The cakes are donations from students and others in the community.”

These aren’t bland cakes, either.

“If you look at them, they are incredibly creative,” she said.

One of the more popular and fun events of the Round Up is the Jerabek student Talent Show.

“It’s really great. The students get to perform their best talent. It’s everything from dancing to singing, and some kids have done martial arts,” Han said. “So, it’s really exciting to watch and to give kids an opportunity to showcase their talents.”

Attendees will also be able to enter raffles for Opportunity Boxes, which have included tickets to Padres games and wine nights in the past. Tickets for the Opportunity Box raffles will cost $10 for 10 tickets.

In addition, there will be a silent auction available for people to bid on baskets of fun items which each classroom has provided.

“It’s our 44th annual event. It has grown over the years,” Han said. “It starts with our volunteers ... They are the heart of the organization for the effort, but we couldn’t do it without community groups.”

Coordinating a huge event such as this is no small task. Approximately 75 to 100 volunteers are needed to make it a success. This includes the committee chairs for the talent show, food, teacher dates, musical cakes, carnival game prizes, silent auction, sponsorships, opportunity boxes and the very important money runner who makes change throughout the day.

“Honestly, on the day of, we’re busy, but we’re making our kids happy,” Han said.

Proceeds from the Ranch Round Up go to Jerabek’s FFO which supports Jerabek programs, including art programs and the STEAM Lab.

For more information or to volunteer, visit jerabekffo. org/events/ranch-round-up.

Womens lacrosse team looks to finish strong

The Scripps Ranch

High School womens lacrosse team wraps up an impressive turnaround from 2023 as it enters its final three matches starting on Wednesday, April 24, at home versus La Jolla High School.

The Lady Falcons already matched their win total for last season as of April 8 after defeating the La Jolla High on the road 14-13 in a game that came down to overtime.

“We’ve done some things very well and incorporated a lot of new faces,” said Scripps Ranch head coach Michele Uhlfelder.

Among the standout performers so far this season are Dahlen Vilbrandt, Norah Lutz, McKenna Durkin and senior Isabella Wenstrand, who is a new addition to the roster after transferring from High Tech High.

Despite opening the season with a road loss to San Marcos High, the Lady Falcons were able to bounce back with back to back wins over Poway High and La Jolla Country Day before faltering at Torrey Pines High on March 14. Scripps Ranch then proceeded to win four of its next five games starting with a dominating 21-2 home victory over San Dieguito Academy along with wins versus La Costa Canyon, Santa Fe Christian and the previously mentioned victory against La Jolla. The only defeat during that impressive span came on March 20 against Coronado High.

“We are emphasizing more movement into our offense,” Uhlfelder said. “I think defensively we’re getting back to a style that we’ve adapted from in the past. We’ve definitely made some adjustments with a lot of new faces to integrate.”

After the rematch against La Jolla, Scripps Ranch will take on Cathedral Catholic at home on April 29 and close

the regular season on the road against Patrick Henry on May 1, with the goal of getting a good seeding come playoff time.

“I’m expecting our skills to sharpen, and I’m expecting our offensive and defensive teamwork to build and grow,” Uhlfelder said. “The competition this season has brought out the best in us, especially when you play teams twice.”

The Lady Falcons hope to make a deep run this postseason after losing in the first round last season to Torrey Pines.

team faced tough schedule

The Scripps Ranch High School mens varsity lacrosse team closes out the regular season against St. Augustine on April 29, hoping to finish the same way they started and that is with a victory as the team gets ready for the postseason.

The Falcons came out with a hard-fought 11-9 victory over Temecula Valley to start play on March 1. They will soon face its third and final league opponent when they take on St. Augustine after already having faced Santa Fe Christian on March 18 and Cathedral Catholic on April 22. “We scheduled a really tough schedule this season,” said head coach Bo Francy. “We need to step it up to get to the next level of lacrosse.”

Despite the Falcons losing 10 players due to graduation, the vast majority of the team, made up of 55 players for both the varsity and junior varsity, have returned for 2024. Among the standouts have been senior midfielder Stephen Bousquet, senior attacker Ryan Stepenosky and sophomore Arjun Wimmer.

“We force a lot of accountability on our kids,” Francy said. “Our goal is not only to create lacrosse players, but also solid young men who can be accountable and responsible. Every year it’s a new team, so you have to coach differently.”

This is Francy’s second year at the helm after taking Scripps Ranch High to a 15-7 overall record last season which included a resounding 18-1 playoff victory over Westview in the first round.

“Ultimately, it’s about getting the word out regarding lacrosse and how exciting the sport is,” Francy said. “Also, getting new players into the program … in order to challenge them both physically and mentally, which is a big push for us.”

The regular season finale against St. Augustine will be the first meeting between the two sides since April 28 of last year when Scripps Ranch came out with a riveting 11-8 home victory.

Marshall wrestlers win first meets

The Marshall Middle School Falcons wrestlers won their first ever meets against both Point Loma and Crawford, held at Kearny High School in March. This is the first season of middle school wrestling in the San Diego district. The Marshall Middle School team is coached by John Kreitzer.

Rollercoaster season nears end

he Scripps Ranch High School womens beach volleyball team concludes what can only be described as a rollercoaster season on Thursday, April 25, at home against Point Loma High. It will be the third meeting between the two sides which includes a 3-2 victory by the Lady Falcons on March 21 that came thanks to a dramatic comeback in the final series of pairings to earn the win.

Scripps Ranch High has four seniors on the varsity team out of 10 returners, with four more players compet ing in their first season at the varsity level. The team pairings have remained consistent throughout with senior Megan Chow and Riley McDonald, sophomores Elyse Taschner and Kristen White, sophomores Bryce Leatherwood and Bailie Bishop, seniors Lauren Peranginangin and junior Ella Fournier, seniors Kaia Lam and Mihika Patil along with the new additions of Abby Kludt, Sam Morra, Mirayah Kirton and Syona Bishop. “Bryce (Leatherwood) and Bailie (Bishop) were partners last year,” said head coach Roni Hooper. “They are both very dynamic sophomores and are very exciting to watch play.”

After starting out the season with back to back loses against La Jolla and Cathedral Catholic, Scripps Ranch bounced back with its longest winning streak of the year thanks to resounding performances versus Oceanside, Academy of Our Lady of Peace and Helix High School by a combined scoreline of 14-1. The streak came to an

end on March 14 in a nail-biting 2-3 road defeat to University City before recovering their form with a 3-2 victory over Eastlake on March 19 followed by the previously mentioned win versus Point Loma. The Lady Falcons fell once again to La Jolla and Cathedral Catholic in the following two meetings which brought their overall record to .500 at 5-5 and following that up with rematches against AOLP, Point Loma and UCHS.

“I hope that we can go a little deeper into the playoffs after battling our league opponents,” Hooper said. “I’m

looking forward to seeing our program continue to grow.”

The Lady Falcons beat Oceanside in the opening round of the playoffs last season before losing to Cathedral Catholic in the following round.

WOR DS&P I CTU R E S

‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical!’

San Diego Junior Theatre, the nation’s longest-running youth theatre program, continues its 76th Season with its presentation of “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical!”

Greg Heffley is determined not to be at the bottom of the popularity chart. He’ll leave that to his weird neighbor, Fregley. Or maybe Greg’s best friend, Rowley Jefferson. But it’s not going to be Greg. No way. Will Greg’s plans lead him to sacrifice his one true friend? Can anyone avoid the dreaded Cheese Touch? Grab a hall pass and don’t be late for an adventure familiar to anyone who actually survived middle school.

Based on the beloved books and film series, “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical” comes to life in this new show filled with clever and catchy songs, plenty of laughter and a relatable tale of growing up that is perfect for families and kids of all ages.

“Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical!” will run Fridays at 7 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. from April 26 to May 12. May 3 is Junior Theatre’s popular Pajama Night. Kids attending in their favorite PJs will receive a special gift.

An ASL-interpreted performance for “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical” will be May 11 at 2 p.m.

Junior Theatre strongly encourages all eligible patrons to be fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19.

All Junior Theatre productions are performed in Balboa Park’s historic Casa del Prado Theatre, 1600 Village Place, at the corner of Old Globe Way and Village Place. Discounts are available for groups of 15 or more. Call the box office at (619) 239-8355. juniortheatre.com

APRIL 24

Competitive exhibits

What’s your hobby? Start creating! It’s time to enter your best artisanal masterpieces, culinary creations, garden harvests, crafts and collections at the San Diego County Fair. Start making, baking, growing, painting, tinkering, carving, sculpting, Entering a competition is easy, and you can win ribbons and even cash prizes while showcasing your talent to more than 1 million fair visitors! sdfair.com/p/ participate/entry

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Rising Tide

The Maritime Museum of San Diego presents Rising Tide, an exhibit that visualizes the human costs of the climate crisis. Dutch documentarian photographer Kadir van Lohuizen illustrates the dramatic consequences of climate change across the world through photographs, video, drone images and sound. Sdmaritime.org

‘The 39 Steps’

New Village Arts’ first comedy play of 2024, the hilarious and fast paced “The 39 Steps,” is playing through May 12 in the heart of Carlsbad Village, 2787 State St. Box office: (760) 433-3245. newvillagearts.org

APRIL 26

‘In a Sunshine State’ “In a Sunshine State,” the newest production in SDSU’s New Musical Initiative, will have its world premiere from April 26 to May 2 at the Main Stage Theatre at San Diego State

SeaWorld San Diego’s popular Seven Seas Food Festival is back with an array of new flavors for guests to sip and savor. This seasonal event runs on Friday, Saturday and Sunday through April 28. Guests will taste flavors from around the world while strolling between award-winning attractions and animal presentations. With more than 100 food and drink options inspired by global cuisine, food enthusiasts and families will discover a gastronomic journey at food locations scattered throughout the park, highlighting delicacies inspired by German, Asian, Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine among others. In addition, guests will experience atmospheric entertainment in each Seven Seas Food Festival area, from the excitement of Polynesian fire knife dancers and traditional lion dance performers, to the authentic sounds of Taiko Drummers and the Bavarian Band, plus the moves of the Mariachi Divas.

SeaWorldSanDiego.com/7Seas

University. “In A Sunshine State” is a historical romance set in late 1950s Florida. Evelyn Pierce, a reclusive yet fiercely intelligent English professor, secretly falls in love with the strident new dean at her university, Betty Kincaid. The two set off on a path of self-discovery and bliss while a state committee and its corrosive chief officer investigate claims of communism at the university, threatening their careers and their love affair. ttf.sdsu.edu/events/ in-a-sunshine-state

MAY 6

Joshua Bell concert

The La Jolla Music Society (LJMS) will celebrate the fifth anniversary of its home venue, The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center in La Jolla, with a special fundraising concert event on May 6, at 6:30 p.m., featuring superstar

violinist Joshua Bell. Tickets are available at the La Jolla Music Society Box Office or by phone at (858) 459-3728, and online.

TheConrad.org

MAY 16

‘Our Town’

The award winning Stagehouse Theatre at Grossmont College wraps up its 2023-2024 season with Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-winning drama, “Our Town.” This is an American classic unfolding the simple, yet profound story of a love affair set in the mythical village of Grover’s Corner, New Hampshire. Performances will run May 16-25. Tickets (619) 644-7234.

Stagehousetheatre.com

Ssame Place® San Diego, the only theme park on the West Coast based entirely on the award-winning show “Sesame Street,” is welcoming springtime to San Diego with Elmo’s Springtacular, running on select dates through May 19. Included with park admission, guests can enjoy chalk art, a nature-themed scavenger hunt, and a special spring story time. For the first time, Blippi will be making a special guest appearance at the park on May 4 and 5 to meet families and perform in a special interactive stage experience. The park’s water attractions will be open for guests to enjoy splashy family fun on select dates based on weather temperatures. In addition to the open water attractions, guests can enjoy exciting rides including Super Grover’s Box Car Derby and the Sunny Day Carousel, an engaging musical play area, the interactive Sesame Street Neighborhood complete with the iconic 123 Stoop, daily live character shows, an award-winning parade, and more. 2052 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista.

SesamePlaceSanDiego.com

Classical Gems

Sunday, May 26, 2024 at 4:00 p.m.

Poway Center for the Performing Arts

15498 Espola Road, Poway

Our final concert of the season will return to “Classical Gems,” with noted pianist Dr. Ching-Ming Cheng, an award-winning music professor at California State University San Marcos.

Ticket Information

$35 - $45 general | $28 - $40 senior (65+) $18 - $25 student | $15 child (under 12)

Free parking at the PCPA

Buy Tickets:

powaycenter.com or 858-748-0505

EVENTS

Continued from Page 18

MAY 17

‘The Butler Did It’ PowPAC presents “The Butler Did It,” a comedy by Walter and Peter Marks, playing May 17-June 9. The scene is the set where Anthony J. Lefcourt, writer and director, is rehearsing his new play, a classic whodunit (in which all the characters are named Butler) with which he hopes to regain the success that has eluded him in recent seasons. powpac.org

MAY 18

Material Girls

Poway OnStage presents

Material Girls: Tribute to Madonna, Cher, Lady Gaga and Adele on Saturday, May 18, 7:30 p.m. Material Girls is a high energy musical production that features amazing vocals and the incredible looks of Madonna, Cher, Lady Gaga, and Adele. Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of some of the most iconic women in pop/rock music. 15498 Espola Road, Poway. powayonstage.org

powaysymphonyorchestra.org We

13250 Poway Road | Poway

Our 43rd Season has just been announced!

location and preferred performances (subject to availability). Visit PowPAC.org for more information!

Ching-Ming Cheng

Overture to “Marriage of Figaro”

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Symphony 104 in D Major Franz Joseph Haydn

Piano Concerto in A minor Robert Schumann

Featuring Ching-Ming Cheng

John LoPiccolo, Conductor and Music Director

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