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San Diego local, Stuart Grauer, Ed.D., founder and head of school emeritus of The Grauer School, an independent school in Encinitas, is announcing his new book, “The Way to Pancho’s Kitchen: A Trail Guide for Small School Leaders.” Published by The Worthy Educator Press and available Saturday, April 4, this is Grauer’s third book. Through true poignant stories and lessons learned spanning the Grand Canyon to Encinitas, the book, described as an essential “trail guide” for the next generation of educational visionaries, will explore the art of leading small schools. On Tuesday, April 14, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., The Grauer School will host an in-person and public book launch and signing in Meyer Hall. Guests are invited to RSVP for the event. “Seven years in the making, this book grew out of an epic journey of reflection, writing and conversation with educators around the world,” said Grauer. “Through vivid stories, from Baja and the Grand Canyon to forests, classrooms and communities closer to home, the book explores what becomes possible when schools are built as human-scale communities rooted in curiosity, connection and the wisdom of the natural world.” Early readers have hailed the book as “elegant,” “poignant” and “captivating.” Grauer’s expertise in education leadership is recognized regionally and globally. Before opening The Grauer School in 1991, he was principal of the International School of Basel in Switzerland and founding assistant director of Fairbanks Country Day. He has taught at both U.S. International University and the University of California, San Diego, specializing in international education and teacher development. He is a regular Chairman of School Evaluation Committees for the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). His ASCD Smartbriefs have been the most popular of the year, nationwide. He is the Founder of the Small Schools Coalition. He was awarded a Fulbright Educational Administration fellowship in 2007. He was named Peacemaker of the Year by Encinitas Rotary International and an Encinitas “Legendary Local,” as well as one of San Diego Magazine’s 50 People to Watch in 2008. Grauer was awarded The Author E. Hughes Career Achievement Award for 2014, which is the University of San Diego’s School of Leadership and Education Sciences’ top alumni honor. “We look forward to hosting Stuart for a special evening of stories, conversation and community as we celebrate the release of a book shaped by the spirit and people of The Grauer School,” said Dana Abplanalp-Diggs, M.Ed., head of school for The Grauer School. At the Grauer School’s book launch and signing, Grauer will be signing books, and guests will be able to bring a copy or purchase books on site. Both the paperback and a full-color hardcover gift edition will be available. The book is available for purchase now on IngramSpark and Amazon. To attend the book launch and signing, RSVP at www.grauerschool.com/book-launch-event. Learn more about The Grauer School by visiting www.grauerschool.com.

Celebrate Mother’s Day in a way she’ll truly remember! Join us for a special Paint and Sip at Sycamore Den, where you and your mom can get creative and spend meaningful time together. Whether you're honoring your mom, a mother figure, or celebrating as a mom yourself, this experience is all about connection, laughter, and making memories that last longer than flowers. Create side-by-side paintings as you sip, chat, and enjoy a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. No prior painting experience is needed! It’s the perfect opportunity to do something different this year and give a gift that feels personal and memorable. What’s included: - All painting supplies (canvas, paints, brushes, easels, aprons, etc.) - A guided, step-by-step painting session led by instructor Miranda Rose - A glass of wine or a non-alcoholic option - A relaxed, fun, and memory-filled environment Why you’ll love it: - Create matching artwork you can take home and cherish - Spend quality, uninterrupted time together - Enjoy a unique experience instead of a traditional gift Parking Information: Street parking is available—please plan to arrive early to find a spot and get settled so you can fully enjoy the experience. Make this Mother’s Day more than just a celebration—make it a moment. Spots are limited, so reserve yours today! Miranda Rose Art on Facebook / Instagram

The Circle Players will be performing "The Conundrum on the Crackerjack Cruise," a mystery dinner theatre show by Nancy Bond. The setting is the cruise ship Grand Jubilation bound for the Bahamas, where the audience will witness a mystery unfold while enjoying a delicious meal. They will also be encouraged to participate in the ship’s Game Night with other “passengers” and help cheer their team to victory. Performances will be held in Richardson Hall, 551 Farragut Circle, El Cajon, on: Friday April 17 at 6:30 p.m. Saturday April 18 at 1 p.m. Sunday April 19 at 6:30 p.m. All seats are $35 and include a delicious meal. Tickets may be purchased online at www.thecircleplayers.org and click on TICKETS. For more information, you can phone (619) 588-5348 or e-mail: thecircleplayers@gmail.com The Circle Players (of El Cajon) on Facebook

Step up to the tee box and make a difference at San Diego nonprofit Fresh Start Surgical Gifts’ first-ever Disc Golf Tournament on Saturday, May 9. This PDGA-sanctioned event offers a more structured, competitive tournament experience while raising critical funds for children in need. While designed for those comfortable with tournament-style play, participants of all skill levels are welcome—no PDGA membership required to join the fun. The action kicks off with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. Registration includes a player pack filled with merchandise and gear, along with adult beverages and lunch to keep you fueled throughout the round. Every dollar raised directly supports Fresh Start’s mission to provide free, life-changing reconstructive surgeries for children living with physical deformities. Sign up today, challenge yourself on the course, and make every throw count for a meaningful cause. Fresh Start Surgical Gifts on Facebook / Instagram

Join Patrick Radden Keefe as he discusses his new book "LONDON FALLING" Check-In at 6:15 p.m. Please have the qr code pulled up on your phone or if possible print out your tickets to expedite the check in process. Seating is first-come, first served. You will receive a presigned copy of "LONDON FALLING" when you check in for those tickets that include a book. Additional books will be available for purchase at this event. Please enter campus from the west entrance and park in the west lot. There will be shuttles running from the west lot to near the Kroc Center for Peace & Justice where the theater is located. The event will begin on time, so please allow plenty of time to get from the parking structure to the theater. It can take up to 30 minutes from the farthest points. Please call the Warwick's Book Department at 858-454-0347 for more information.

Enjoy a special garden workshop in the Trudy Bronner Discovery Garden with local, seasonal ingredients from Jimbo’s! Today’s recipe: Make your own tuna sandwiches with organic ingredients from Jimbo’s! Pre-registration is not required. FREE with Museum Admission. Children’s Museum of Discovery on Facebook / Instagram

The National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) California will host a Congressional Candidate Forum for California’s 48th District, bringing together candidates to discuss issues impacting women entrepreneurs and the small business community. The moderated forum will focus on key topics including access to capital, tariffs and importing, healthcare and caregiving, tax policy, workforce development, and the overall economic climate for small businesses. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear directly from candidates about their positions and priorities, as well as participate in a brief audience Q&A. The event is open to the public and will be followed by a networking reception, offering an opportunity for local business owners, professionals, and community members to connect.

Celebrate Earth Day and our magnificent oceans @ the Central Library! Art of Elan’s popular “Sounds & Swells” series returns to San Diego’s Central Library’s Cinema + Sound Series with newly commissioned surfing footage created by Jimmy Wilson and McCracken Films that showcases the natural beauty of the California coastline and its epic “swells” that attract visitors from all around the world. Videography and live classical music are synced in this engaging series that features the Hausmann Quartet. This is a free event, first come, first served seating.

Beautiful PB is bringing new life to a long-vacant mid-century modern building in the heart of Pacific Beach, with a vision to transform it into a vibrant center for the arts. While development plans move forward, the organization is launching its first-ever Summer Camp series at the PB Arts Commons—an outdoor gathering space located behind the future PB Arts Center at 4606 Ingraham Street. Registration is now open for programs beginning June 1. The Summer Camps offer a diverse lineup of creative experiences, including sewing, dramatic expression, technology, gardening, and fashion. Designed for youth ages 0–16, the series also features a “Mommy and Me” art-making workshop for younger participants and caregivers. “While we continue fundraising efforts to bring the PB Arts Center to life, we are excited to activate the PB Arts Commons with engaging arts programming for the community,” said Michelle Sexton, Vice Chair of the PB Arts Center. “Our vision of a shared space that connects artists, students, and residents will begin to take shape this summer.” Advance registration is encouraged: https://www.pbartscenter.org/summer-camps/ Community partners for the series include Creative Cornucopia, Clickbitz, and The Music Company. The PB Arts Commons is now open for community-centered programming ahead of full site development, offering a preview of what’s to come. Donations are welcomed to support the creation of this multipurpose arts venue. To contribute to the PB Arts Center capital campaign, visit www.givebutter.com/PBArtsCenter.

McAlister Institute will host its 9th Annual Miracles of Recovery Luncheon on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Coasterra on Harbor Island. This inspiring event brings together supporters, community leaders, and individuals in recovery to celebrate healing and expand access to life-changing treatment services. Hosted by NBC 7 News Anchor Omari Fleming, the luncheon will feature a keynote address from a special guest speaker, remarks from the Miracles of Recovery Awardee, and powerful personal stories that highlight the resilience of those on the path to recovery. Designed as an intimate and meaningful gathering, the luncheon offers attendees a direct connection to McAlister Institute’s mission and impact across San Diego County. This year also marks a period of exciting growth for the organization, including the introduction of Incidental Medical Services at its Lemon Grove Campus—home to adult detoxification and residential programs such as the Kiva Women & Children’s Learning Center—as well as a major rebrand and plans for a new campus to expand access to care. The Miracles of Recovery Luncheon highlights the transformative journeys of individuals and families affected by substance use, demonstrating how recovery can restore relationships and strengthen communities. Proceeds from the event support McAlister Institute’s comprehensive prevention, treatment, and long-term recovery programs. Tickets are $250 per person, with opportunities to learn more, purchase tickets, or donate available online.