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Congratulations! You’ve written a novel or non-fiction proposal. Now you want to share your work with the world and have decided that the traditional publishing path is right for you. The first step is connecting with the right agent — one who has relationships in the industry and will negotiate on your behalf. A good one knows who’s buying what, gets the highest advance for you, and advocates for extras like a book tour stipend. How do you find your dream agent? How do you query them? What are the rules — and which ones can you break? In this interactive workshop, USA Today bestselling author Jennifer Coburn will offer best practices, examples, and tips for finding the perfect agent for you. Jennifer is currently represented by Marly Rusoff, whom she pitched using the techniques she will outline in this course. Visit: https://writeyourstorynow.org/classes-workshops/2026-04-12-land-your-dream-agent-with-jennifer-coburn/ SD Writer's Ink on Instagram and Facebook

The Escondido Downtown Business Association hosts its annual chocolate festival – For the Love of Chocolate. Whether you’re a devoted chocolate enthusiast or simply seeking an elegant and engaging way to spend the day, the chocolate festival promises a rich, immersive experience designed to delight the senses. Located in the historic downtown Escondido, chocolate lovers will stroll at their own pace through a curated selection of participating restaurants, shops, galleries, and spa tasting locations, each offering thoughtfully crafted chocolate pairings created exclusively for the tasting event. New this year, elevate your experience with Behind the Bottle wine maker talks, offering an intimate look into the craft and stories behind the wine. Guests will also receive a keepsake tasting glass and can join the excitement of the Golden Ticket Hunt throughout the day. A hands-on gourmet chocolate truffle–making workshop, led by the professional team at D’Liteful Chocolat, will also be offered. Guests will be guided through a brief history of chocolate and a step-by-step process for creating beautiful, ganache-filled truffles to take home. Enjoy a carefully curated glass of wine, selected to complement your experience. The class is approximately 60 minutes and includes one wine pairing. The class may be taken as a stand-alone or added to your tasting ticket. The festival concludes with an after-party with music and dancing. Add a personal touch to your day at the DIY flower bar, where guests can create a beautiful bouquet to take home. This popular event sells out each year. Attendees can pre-purchase tickets – $65 (chocolate + wine/beer), and $55 for designated drivers (no alcohol). The deliciously fun festival is only available for ages 21+. Sweethearts or anyone with a sweet tooth can experience Escondido’s sweetest, all the while supporting local businesses. Check-in will take place at Will Call (where IDs will be checked), located at Maple Street Plaza, which is on Maple Street between Grand Avenue and West Valley Parkway. Whether you’re a devoted chocolate enthusiast or simply seeking an elegant and engaging way to spend the day, the For the Love of Chocolate Festival promises a rich, immersive experience designed to delight the senses. For tickets and more information, visit www.downtownescondido.com/esco-choc-fest.

If you or someone you know is facing Alzheimer's disease, dementia or another chronic illness, it’s never too early to put financial plans in place. Join us to learn tips for managing someone else's finances, how to prepare for future care costs and the benefits of early planning. Visit: https://www.communityresourcefinder.org/ResourceView/Index?id=3877045 Alzheimer's Association of San Diego on Instagram and Facebook

February 14 through February 21 Journey around East County and visit the Friends of the Library bookstores collecting passport stamps with any purchase. Prizes given for 4 and 8 stamps, while supplies last. Completed passports are entered in a grand prize drawing. Hours vary per location. Only Santee bookstore will be open on Presidents' Day, February 16. Alpine/ El Cajon / Descanso / La Mesa / Lakeside / Ramona / Rancho San Diego / Santee

Get ready for a night of nonstop laughs as a crew of sharp, talented comedians bring big energy, bold stories, and great jokes! Comedy Show at Bankers Hill Speakeasy Date: Thursday, February 19 Time: 8:30 p.m. Location: Charade Speakeasy, 1867 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 Settle in for a night packed with big laughs and that signature Bankers Hill charm as a crew of charismatic comedians takes the stage. Whether you’re heading out with friends, on a date, or just looking for something fun to do, it’s the perfect way to unwind, meet new faces, and catch sharp stand‑up from some of the funniest voices around. Expect an upbeat crowd, great drinks, and jokes that stick with you long after the night wraps. Come early, hang out after, and make it a night worth talking about. Featuring a curated lineup of standout comedians Act fast—tickets won’t last! Get ready for a night packed with laughs, drinks, and good company. Comedy, connections, and good vibes await—don’t miss out! Banana Peel Productions on Instagram

Research shows there are everyday habits you can build today to help protect your memory and thinking as you get older – even reducing your risk of cognitive decline and possibly dementia. Join us to learn about healthy habits for your brain; the brain-heart connection; why brain health is important at all ages, and how to build your personalized action plan for brain-healthy habits. Visit: https://www.communityresourcefinder.org/ResourceView/Index?id=3872934 Mission Valley YMCA on Instagram and Facebook

Looking to add a furry friend to your life? Stop by Swing Social for a special Puppy Love Dog Adoption Event on Sunday, February 14, from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.! In partnership with Amazing Strays Rescue, guests can meet 10–15 lovable dogs ready for their forever homes on the Swing Social patio. Plus, for every Ballast Point beer sold, Swing Social will donate $1 to Amazing Strays Rescue to support their incredible mission. Whether you’re hoping to adopt, socialize, or simply spend Valentine’s Day surrounded by adorable pups, this event is the perfect way to celebrate love, friendship, and furry companionship! Visit: https://swingsocialsd.com/happenings/ Swing Social on Instagram and Facebook

Watch the San Diego Clippers take on the Austin Spurs at Oceanside’s Frontwave Arena for an action-packed night filled with high-flying dunks, buzzer-beaters, and unforgettable moments. The theme for the evening is Black History night and ticket holders will receive an exclusive tote bag giveaway! Frontwave Arena on Facebook / Instagram / TikTok

Join LGBTQ+ teens and allies (ages 13–18) for a Shabbat all about friends, fun, and community. Share a meal, make new connections, and spend the evening laughing, celebrating who you are, and meeting others who get it. Come for the food, stay for the friends—RSVP today! Visit: https://my.lfjcc.org/16297/16298 Lawrence Family JCC on Instagram and Facebook

Join us to fight Parkinson's Disease at PASD's 24th Annual Step by Step Walk in support of the Parkinson’s Association of San Diego on Saturday April 11. By supporting Step-by-Step, you empower PASD to provide essential resources to thousands of individuals impacted by Parkinson’s disease in San Diego County. Your assistance is vital in maintaining our outreach and capacity to serve the community. Every contribution stays within the County, providing aid to local caregivers and families of those in need. Lace up your walking shoes to be a valuable resource and unwavering ally for people with Parkinson’s disease! Participants can choose to walk or run, with options for the 5K or a shorter 2.5K at Liberty Station, 2640 Cushing Rd, San Diego. Register as an individual, team, or sponsor a walker at parkinsonsassociation.org Check in begins at 7:30 a.m., Walk begins at 9 am. Meet over 50 exhibitors. Registration Fees: Through February 1, 2026: $40 February 2 - April 1, 2026: $50 After April 1, 2026: $60 Youth (12 - 17): $10 Children under 12 are FREE, but a donation is suggested. Dogs are FREE too! For event questions or to register via phone, please call (858) 215-2570. Parkinson's Association San Diego on Facebook / Instagram