Welcome to The San Diego Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Little Change to San Diego County Gas Prices; $4.68 for Self-Serve Regular.

• Upcoming San Diego Padres match

• A deep-dive into the life of George White Marston

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Mastery of life is not a question of control, but of finding a balance between human and being.”

–Eckhart Tolle

Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

In San Diego, what is the name of the popular waterfront shopping, dining, and entertainment complex?

A) Pacific Beach Boardwalk

B) Seaport Village

C) Oceanfront Walk

D) Gaslamp Quarter

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The San Diego neighborhood renowned for its Italian cuisine and annual Little Italy Festa is C) Little Italy.

News

💼 Business

Boutique Boardwalk Hotel Opens in Mission Beach, with Restaurant to Come. (Link)

Omni San Diego Reopens after Multi-Million Dollar Renovation. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Manny Machado is getting back to full strength. That bodes well for the Padres. (Link)

MLB Power Rankings: Diamondbacks strike, Rangers struggle; each team’s Big August Move. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Little Change to San Diego County Gas Prices; $4.68 for Self-Serve Regular. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

⚾ San Francisco Giants at San Diego Padres
Petco Park, San Diego
Fri, Sep 6th - Sun, Sep 8th | (More info)

⚾ Houston Astros at San Diego Padres
Petco Park, San Diego
Mon, Sep 16th - Wed, Sep 18th | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Alec Benjamin
Soma, San Diego
Friday, Sep 6th | (More info)

🎵 Elephante and MVSE
Bloom, San Diego
Saturday, Sep 7th | (More info)

Family

🛍️ SoCal Etsy Guild Market San Diego
1640 Camino Del Rio North, San Diego
Saturday, Sep 7th | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “San Diego where every building is equipped with solar and wind power” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

San Diego Historical Events

1996 - Republican National Convention held in San Diego.

The 1996 Republican National Convention was a significant event held at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego, California, from August 12 to August 15, 1996. The convention marked the formal acceptance of the Republican presidential nomination by Bob Dole, who delivered a stirring speech to the convention attendees. San Diego was chosen as the host city for the convention, and it showcased a diverse and inclusive Republican Party through its orators and participants. The convention was a prominent moment in American politics, drawing attention from the nation's television viewers and making headlines 25 years ago.

The selection of San Diego as the host city for the 1996 Republican National Convention was announced in January 1995, and it proved to be a momentous occasion for the city. The convention brought together Republicans from across the country and highlighted the party's vision and leadership. Bob Dole's acceptance speech at the convention was a pivotal moment, as he expressed gratitude to San Diego for hosting what he described as ""the greatest Republican convention of them all."" The convention showcased the strength and unity of the Republican Party and left a lasting impact on the political landscape.

The 1996 Republican National Convention in San Diego was a historic event that captured the attention of the nation. It provided a platform for Republican leaders to convey their message and vision for the future, and it demonstrated the party's commitment to diversity and inclusivity. The convention's significance was underscored by Bob Dole's acceptance speech, which resonated with the audience and left an indelible mark on the political history of the United States.

Famous People From San Diego

George White Marston - (1850-1946)

George White Marston, known as San Diego's First Citizen, was a prominent civic leader and philanthropist who made significant contributions to the development and well-being of San Diego. His legacy is marked by his dedication to public service, community involvement, and the establishment of key institutions that continue to benefit the city to this day.

Early Life and Civic Values

George White Marston was born on October 22, 1850, in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin. His upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of civic responsibility and community engagement. Marston's commitment to public service was evident from a young age, shaping his future endeavors and contributions to San Diego.

Arrival in San Diego and Business Ventures

In 1870, Marston relocated to San Francisco with his family due to his father's chronic respiratory ailment. Subsequently, they journeyed to San Diego on the side-wheeler SS Senator. Marston's early years in San Diego were marked by his employment as a clerk and general assistant for Alonzo Horton, a prominent developer and key figure in the city's early growth. Marston's dedication and work ethic led to his rise as the city's largest dry-goods merchant, establishing himself as a respected business figure in San Diego.

Founding of Key Institutions (1880s-1890s)

During the 1880s and 1890s, Marston played a pivotal role in the founding of several key institutions that would shape the future of San Diego. He was a founder and the first president of the San Diego History Center, demonstrating his commitment to preserving the city's heritage and culture. Additionally, Marston's involvement in the establishment of the San Diego Public Library and the founding of the YMCA showcased his dedication to education, community well-being, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles.

Civic Leadership and Political Engagement

Marston's civic leadership extended to his involvement in local politics and community development. He served on the San Diego City Council from 1887 to 1889, where he advocated for initiatives that aimed to improve the city's infrastructure, public services, and overall quality of life. His vision for San Diego was rooted in small-town values and a deep concern for the city's future, driving his efforts to create a thriving and inclusive community.

Philanthropy and Park Development

One of Marston's most enduring legacies is his philanthropic contributions and dedication to park development in San Diego. His involvement in the establishment of Balboa Park, a cultural and recreational hub, and his role in preserving San Diego Presidio Park reflect his commitment to creating public spaces that enrich the lives of city residents and visitors. Marston's efforts in park development continue to shape the city's landscape and cultural identity.

Legacy as San Diego's First Citizen

George White Marston's impact on San Diego earned him the affectionate title of San Diego's First Citizen. His unwavering dedication to public service, community well-being, and the establishment of key institutions has left an indelible mark on the city's history and development. Marston's legacy as a civic leader and philanthropist continues to inspire future generations and serves as a testament to the power of civic engagement and community leadership.

Key Achievements of George White Marston:

• Founder and first president of the San Diego History Center.

• Instrumental in the establishment of the San Diego Public Library and the founding of the YMCA.

• Served on the San Diego City Council and advocated for community development and infrastructure improvements.

• Played a pivotal role in the development of Balboa Park and the preservation of San Diego Presidio Park.

• Remembered as San Diego's First Citizen for his enduring contributions to the city's civic life and cultural heritage.

George White Marston's story is one of unwavering dedication to the betterment of San Diego, leaving a lasting legacy as a civic leader, philanthropist, and advocate for community well-being. His vision and values continue to shape the fabric of San Diego, embodying the spirit of civic engagement and public service.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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