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Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego announced today that their new exhibition, "Living Seas," will officially open to the public May 22, 2025. "Living Seas," which is the largest capital improvement to the aquarium since 1992, invites guests to explore the wonders of our ocean planet on an unforgettable, immersive journey to uncover the splendor of the Pacific. Additions include many new interactive features: A Giant Pacific Octopus habitat that invites guests to venture through a round portal into the hidden world of one of the most intelligent animals in the ocean. A new Scripps Pier habitat creates an “under-the-pier” experience for aquarium guests that evokes the feeling of standing beneath the iconic pier with an up-close view of life on the pilings. An expanded Open Ocean habitat features the Pacific’s deeper waters complete with schooling fish and the aquarium’s popular rescued Loggerhead Sea Turtle. A stunning Tropical Coral habitat that is more than four times the size of the previous habitat includes a step-in immersive viewing window. Tropical Mangrove roots “grow” out of the walls, inviting guests to explore this remarkable habitat. “'Living Seas' isn’t just something you look at — it’s something you step into,” said Megan Dickerson, director of exhibits. “You’ll hear the calls of marine life, crawl into an octopus’ hidden world and feel what it’s like to dive beneath the Scripps Pier. Every element is designed to engage your senses and spark curiosity, just like a Scripps scientist studying the life and wonders of the ocean.” "Living Seas," which has been under construction since August 2024, also includes new state-of-the-art pumps and cooling systems and upgrades to existing spaces. Digital projections and UV-responsive wallpaper adds to the immersive elements guests will be able to explore, including hidden features and an ability to seamlessly shift "Living Seas" from day to nighttime events, highlighting some of the exciting things that happen in the ocean after dark. The exhibition also spotlights the cutting edge research of Scripps Oceanography with direct connections to the work being done just down the hill from Birch Aquarium and around the world. Guests will be able to get an up-close look at topics ranging from how Sunflower Sea Stars are being saved to how jellies connect to cancer research. Other exciting additions include a new bistro onsite from Behind the Scenes Catering. Blue Wave Bistro will feature an all-new menu of offerings for guests to enjoy during their visit. The aquarium is also launching a brand new evening ticket option for those who want to come later in the day to catch the sunset over the epic views from the aquarium’s perch high on the bluffs. Special Member and media previews of "Living Seas" will be announced closer to time. Hours: Birch Aquarium is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with extended seasonal hours beginning May 23, 2025. Advanced reservations are required, except for members. Visit aquarium.ucsd.edu for more information including the Daily Schedule. Instagram - @birchaquarium Facebook - @Birch Aquarium at Scripps LinkedIn - @Birch Aquarium at Scripps Tik Tok - @BirchAquarium Threads - @birchaquarium X - @Birch_Aquarium

KPBS spoke with Corey Gustafson and Kyle Krahel-Frolander of the San Diego Republican and Democratic parties respectively to get their take on President Trump’s first four months in office.

Mary and Charlie meet in a deserted barn and begin a whirlwind romance. But World War I is looming, and the lovers must part as Charlie joins the war effort and Mary is left alone with her dreams. This deeply romantic dream-play is an exquisitely personal examination of the cost of war. Visit: 'Mary's Wedding' Scripps Ranch Theater on Instagram and Facebook

We discuss what could follow Monday's 5.2 magnitude earthquake, and how to be prepared for the next one that shakes San Diego.

Lecture title: The gut-brain axis: A key to metabolism and longevity - Front Row lecture with Supriya Srinivasan, PhD Description: How do our gut and brain communicate with one another, and how do they influence our metabolism, our behavior, and the aging process? Scripps Research neuroscience professor Supriya Srinivasan is dedicated to answering these pressing questions using modern genetic and molecular tools across different experimental systems. Srinivasan will reveal the intricacies of the gut-brain networks that regulate energy regulation and fat metabolism, as well as their impact on lifespan. Discover how her work could lead to new therapies that restore a healthy metabolism and tackle dysregulation. ABOUT SCRIPPS RESEARCH Scripps Research is an independent, nonprofit biomedical institute based in La Jolla, California, and ranked one of the most influential in the world for its impact on innovation. The Front Row lecture series, now in its eighth season, offers an exclusive glimpse into groundbreaking scientific discoveries in action. Reserve your seat today and learn how our scientists remain at the forefront of advancing the future of science and medicine. Join us—in the front row. Reserve your seat! Join the community in person on the Scripps Research campus or attend virtually via Zoom webinar. Scripps Research on Facebook / Instagram / X

The “Pleasure of Your Company” music series will welcome back Courtly Noyse on Sunday, March 16, at 2:30 p.m. to the stage of the Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center. Garbed in period costume, this lively ensemble will play a variety of Renaissance period replica instruments in a program of Songs and Dances from Shakespeare featuring works composed as incidental music for performances of works by the Bard. There is no charge for the concert, which is sponsored by the Scripps Ranch Friends of the Library, although donations are appreciated to help continue the tradition of bringing fine musicians to perform on special Sunday afternoons for monthly concerts in this sought after venue. Visit https://srfol.org/music.htm for the schedule of monthly concerts and information about sponsorship opportunities. Masks are recommended although not required. Scripps Miramar Ranch Library Center is located at 10301 Scripps Lake Drive near Miramar Lake. Visit www.srfol.org or call (858) 538-8158 for information.

After months of failed contract negotiations, Scripps Health has been removed from the Anthem Blue Cross insurance networks of 125,000 San Diegans. Reporter Melissa Mae shares what could happen next. Then, a Catholic school in El Cerrito is fighting to keep its doors open after the diocese of San Diego said it could no longer cover its budget deficit. Plus, reporter Amita Sharma shares how people are navigating dating in a deeply divided time.

Join us in celebrating Women’s History Month as we honor the incredible contributions of women in the rich history of marine plankton research at Scripps. This Perspectives Lecture will feature two fascinating presentations highlighting the inspiration for "Mosaic Ocean," an innovative art/science installation blending traditional and cutting-edge technology essential to observing these small but incredibly important ocean dwellers. Judit Hersko will perform part of her innovative series of visual narratives, Pages from the Book of the "Unknown Explorer," transporting you to Scripps’ early days through a cleverly imagined correspondence between Dr. Easter Cupp, Scripps' first female PhD graduate, and a fictitious female explorer inspired by Hersko's research and field experience in Antarctica. Melissa Carter will then take us on a journey through nearly a century of observations from Scripps Pier, bringing us to the present day. She’ll provide an insider’s look at emerging research and observational technologies used on the Pier and explore how these innovations drive new, groundbreaking discoveries in marine plankton research. Seating is limited and lectures often sell out, so advanced registration is strongly recommended. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the lecture begins at 7 p.m. Visit: https://aquarium.ucsd.edu/events/perspectives-lecture-series-march Birch Aquarium at Scripps on Instagram and Facebook

The VAPA Foundation, dedicated to enhancing access to arts education for San Diego students in grades K through 12, is thrilled to announce its annual Beyond Brilliance Gala, an extraordinary celebration that highlights the exceptional talents of young, gifted performing artists. Now in its sixth year, the event will take place at a stunning new venue, the state-of-the-art Epstein Family Amphitheater. This venue will provide the perfect setting for a captivating showcase of performances across a variety of artistic mediums, including dance, musical theater, mariachi, and a full award-winning student orchestra. The evening will begin at 5:30 p.m. with an exclusive VIP Champagne Reception, featuring a Broadway-style musical performance. At 6 p.m., all guests will join a welcome reception with delicious bites, cocktails, and a range of captivating musical performances. Enjoy intimate ensembles and full orchestra pieces, including performances by Mira Mesa High School Orchestra, the Jazz Ensemble from Creative, Performing, and Media Arts Middle School, a Mariachi Ensemble from Bell Middle School, selections from Gypsy by Scripps Ranch High School, and student visual art displays from across San Diego. After the performances, the celebration will continue with dessert, coffee, and more music. Guests are encouraged to dress in colorful, creative attire to match the spirit of this vibrant evening. Beyond Brilliance is not only a showcase of the incredible artistic talents of student artists but also a vital fundraiser that supports the programs that make these creative opportunities possible. The arts play a crucial role in personal expression, growth, and academic achievement. Through its work, the VAPA Foundation funds arts education programs for students throughout San Diego Unified schools. This year’s Beyond Brilliance promises to be the most exciting celebration yet. The venue offers convenient access to parking, with a cart service available for guests with mobility needs. Visit: https://paybee.io/quickpay.html?handle=vapa_gala_23&ppid=17#campaignList VAPA Foundation San Diego on Instagram and Facebook

Heads of state, mayors, scientists and policymakers have gathered in France to tackle what is being described as a global emergency facing the world's seas.