Welcome to The San Diego Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Midway Rising Plan gets approved

• Upcoming performance at the San Diego Zoo

• A deep dive into the life of Grace Kelly

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.”

– Dr. Seuss

San Diego 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!

San Diego has a rich maritime history and is home to one of the most famous aircraft carriers, now a museum. What is the name of this historic aircraft carrier docked in San Diego Bay that serves as a museum and a tribute to naval history?

A) USS Midway

B) USS Nimitz

C) USS Enterprise

D) USS San Diego

The Best Stories of the Week

💼 Business

Carlsbad-based Viasat Inc. is working with Safran Data Systems to develop InRange, a new technology for relaying launch vehicles' telemetry in flight using Viasat’s global L-band satellite fleet. This technology will enable continuous monitoring of launch missions without relying on ground networks. (link)

Sanford Burnham Prebys continued its significant recruitment of early-career researchers, hiring Angela Liou, M.D., and Xueqin Sherine Sun, Ph.D. This recruitment is part of an effort funded by a $70 million donation from philanthropist T. Denny Sanford. (link)

🏦 Finance

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria celebrated the approval of the Midway Rising plan, which will offer over 4,000 housing units, a sports arena, a park, and an entertainment and cultural arts district. This follows the voter-approved Measure C, which removed the 30-foot coastal height limit in the Midway District. (link)

Gregory Smith has been selected as the next chancellor of the San Diego Community College District. He previously served as vice chancellor of People, Culture, and Technology Services at the SDCCD. (link)

🏒 Sports

San Diego State University announced that 26 student-athletes have committed to play football at the university. This is the first recruiting class for new head coach Sean Lewis. The early signing class includes 15 players on offense and 11 on defense, with a mix of high school graduates and college transfers from various states and American Samoa. The local recruits include players like Will Cianfrini, Anthony McMillian, and Isaiah Buxton. (link)

📰 News

San Diego State University Imperial Valley faculty members launched the Transborder Scholar Collaborative. This initiative focuses on social justice for transborder students and supports students in the U.S.-Mexico border in research projects related to border-conscious teaching practices. (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 Diego State Aztecs Basketball Game (December 21) Enjoy an exciting college basketball game featuring the San Diego State Aztecs as they take on the Florida Atlantic Owls. The team is known for its competitive play and vibrant crowd, making it a thrilling experience for sports fans. (link)

🏈 Chargers vs. Buffalo Bills (December 23) Join the excitement as the Chargers face off against the Buffalo Bills in an intense NFL game. This matchup is set to be a highlight of the football season. (link)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Winter Wonder Beachside at Belmont Park (December 18) This beachside wonderland at Belmont Park includes festive entertainment and a Christmas-themed cocktail pop-up. Enjoy the holiday spirit with music, classic rides, and holiday treats. (link)

Family

🎤 Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo (December 18 - 24) Experience a wild holiday adventure at the San Diego Zoo, where the entire zoo is transformed with dazzling lights, joyful entertainers, and special holiday treats. (link)

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 in a video game” 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 History

Establishment of the San Diego Zoo (1916)

The San Diego Zoo's establishment in 1916 is a landmark event in the city's history, showcasing its commitment to wildlife conservation and education. The zoo began with a small collection of animals left over from the Panama-California Exposition, but Dr. Harry Wegeforth, inspired by the roar of a lion, saw the potential for something greater. This vision led to the creation of what would become one of the most famous and progressive zoos in the world.

The San Diego Zoo quickly grew, becoming a pioneer in the concept of open-air, cageless exhibits that provided more natural habitats for animals. This innovative approach transformed the standards of animal care and exhibit design worldwide. The zoo's dedication to conservation, research, and public education made it a leader in the global effort to protect endangered species.

Today, the San Diego Zoo is not only a top tourist attraction but also a vital center for conservation science. Its efforts in species preservation, habitat protection, and breeding programs have had significant impacts worldwide. The zoo's commitment to conservation and its role in the community exemplify San Diego's dedication to environmental stewardship and education.

Famous San Diegans

Theodore Geisel (Dr. Seuss): 1904-1991

Theodore Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, was a renowned American author, political cartoonist, illustrator, poet, animator, and filmmaker. While he was born in Springfield, Massachusetts, much of his significant work and life were spent in La Jolla, San Diego, where he created some of his most famous children's books.

Early Life and Education (1904-1925) 

Born on March 2, 1904, Theodore Geisel grew up in Springfield. He attended Dartmouth College, where he became the editor-in-chief of the Dartmouth Jack-O-Lantern, a humor magazine. His time at Dartmouth heavily influenced his future writing style – playful, imaginative, and often rhyming.

Early Career and Advertising (1927-1940) 

After Oxford, Geisel began his career as an illustrator and cartoonist for advertising and various publications. His work in advertising, particularly for Standard Oil, gained him national recognition. This period honed his unique illustrative style and whimsical storytelling approach.

World War II and Political Cartoons (1941-1945) 

During World War II, Geisel worked in the animation department of the U.S. Army, producing films and propaganda. He also created political cartoons, reflecting his strong anti-fascist sentiments and support for the American war effort.

Post-War Career and Children's Books (1946-1955) 

After the war, Geisel moved to La Jolla, San Diego, and shifted his focus to writing children's books. His first major success, "The Cat in the Hat," was published in 1957, revolutionizing children’s literature with its fun, educational approach.

Rise to Fame and Iconic Works (1957-1970) 

Dr. Seuss became a household name with books like "Green Eggs and Ham," "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," and "Horton Hears a Who!" His unique rhyming style, imaginative characters, and vibrant illustrations captivated children and adults alike.

Innovations in Children's Literature (1971-1985) 

Geisel's work continued to break new ground in children's literature. His books often contained underlying social and moral themes, such as environmentalism in "The Lorax" and racial equality in "The Sneetches."

Later Years and Continued Impact (1986-1991) 

Even in his later years, Geisel continued to write and publish books. He remained a prominent figure in children’s literature until his death in La Jolla on September 24, 1991.

Legacy in Literature and Education (Post-1991) 

Dr. Seuss's influence extends beyond literature into the realms of education, pop culture, and the arts. His innovative approach to early literacy has made a lasting impact on educational methodologies.

Honors and Tributes 

Posthumously, Geisel has received numerous honors, including the renaming of UC San Diego's University Library to the Geisel Library. His work continues to be celebrated for its creativity, humor, and ability to address complex ideas in a simple, engaging manner.

Key Achievements of Theodore Geisel (Dr. Seuss):

• Revolutionized children's literature with "The Cat in the Hat" and other works.

• His books have been translated into numerous languages, reaching a global audience.

• Known for his unique illustrations, imaginative characters, and rhyming texts.

• Addressed important social issues through his children's stories.

• Left a lasting legacy in literature, education, and pop culture.

Theodore Geisel's journey from Springfield to San Diego saw the birth of Dr. Seuss, an enduring icon in children's literature whose imaginative and whimsical work continues to delight and educate generations.

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