Monday, March 18, 2024
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Rancho El Agave: Culinary Excellence and Mexican Heritage All In One Place

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In the heart of Vista, a culinary oasis awaits those seeking not only exceptional Mexican cuisine but also a future vibrant entertainment experience. Rancho El Agave, a premier high-end Mexican restaurant and stunning event space, has recently undergone a transformation under new management, promising an even more enchanting dining and entertainment journey for its patrons.

For years, Rancho El Agave has been a cherished destination for those with a discerning palate, known for its commitment to authenticity and quality. Now, under new management, the restaurant embarks on a journey to reimagine itself as not only a culinary haven but also a hub for future live entertainment, offering guests an all-encompassing experience for the senses.

The culinary offerings at Rancho El Agave continue to showcase the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine, with a bilingual team creating each dish thoughtfully crafted to highlight the flavors and traditions of various regions. From the sizzling fajitas of Northern Mexico to the delicate seafood creations inspired by the coastal regions, every bite is a celebration of Mexico’s culinary heritage.

What sets Rancho El Agave apart is its seamless integration of planned live entertainment into the dining experience. Guests will be treated to captivating performances by talented musicians and dancers, adding an extra layer of excitement and energy to their evening. Whether it’s the rhythmic beats of a mariachi band or the mesmerizing movements of traditional folk dancers, the live entertainment at Rancho El Agave will transform every meal into a memorable celebration.

In addition to its exceptional dining and entertainment offerings, Rancho El Agave also boasts a breathtaking event space perfect for your live events, corporate gatherings, and special occasions. With its elegant decor, spacious layout, and state-of-the-art audiovisual capabilities, the venue provides the ideal backdrop for unforgettable celebrations.

Under the guidance of its new management team, Rancho El Agave is committed to exceeding the expectations of its guests at every turn. From the warm hospitality of its staff to the meticulous attention to detail in every dish, the restaurant strives to create a truly immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening of fine dining, a lively night out with friends, a place to grab coffee and lunch, or the perfect venue for your next special event, Rancho El Agave invites you to experience the magic of Mexican cuisine and live entertainment in the heart of Vista. Come for the food, search for future events, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime.

Level 1: Improv Fundamentals

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Ready to let go, connect, and unleash your creativity? Join us for a fun journey of laughter, spontaneity and endless possibilities as we explore the fundamentals of improv in a supportive environment. Students will learn the fundamentals of improv through a series of engaging exercises, games, and scene work as each week builds on what was learned the previous week. We will focus on building trust, sharpening listening skills, gaining confidence to think creatively in the moment, the concept of Yes And…, and so much more. Not only will you have a ton of fun, you will build self-confidence, soft business skills, and meet new people! Taught by Chris Shurland

Oceanside Theatre’s Presents Hilarious Dramady “Chicken & Biscuits”

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The Cast and the Creative Team for "Chicken & Biscuits".

By TR Robertson Photos by Esteban Marin
Oceanside Theatre Company’s opening production for their new season is Douglas Lyons “Chicken & Biscuits”, presenting a funeral like you’ve never seen before. This former Broadway production centers around the death of the Jenkins family patriarch, Berard Jenkins, and a host of family unresolved issues involving practically every family member attending along with some “new folk”. “Chicken & Biscuits” debuted in 2020 at the Queens Theatre in the Park, unfortunately closing due to the COVID pandemic. It would reopen in 2021, this time on Broadway at the Circle in the Square Theatre, running for four months, but was cut short due to COVID pandemic restrictions in New York City. Playwright Douglas Lyons earned a GLADD nomination for “Chicken and Biscuits” and has written music and lyrics for numerous TV shows. He also performed on Broadway in “The Book of Mormon”.

Like many families everywhere, the families in “Chicken & Biscuits” have issues, big and small. Some deal with unresolved conflict, some relationship situations, some sibling rivalry, and some from secrets that are beginning to surface. Perhaps it is best said by Simone Mabry, daughter of Reginald and Baneatta Mabry (Baneatta one of the daughters of the deceased Pastor Bernard Jenkins), when she is speaking to her niece La’Trice and says to her “Family is a loaded word”. This cleverly written dramady uses wonderfully funny “one liner’s”, mixed with tense moments, to explain the dynamics of these family members and the issues they have with one another. A 2021 review in Variety referred to the play as a “much needed therapy session”. The 90-minute play, no intermission, flows smoothly with limited stage props and raised portions on the stage to create the church and various other locations.

Kimberley King as Banetta Mabry

The key to this production is the talented veteran cast for this play, all making their debut at the Oceanside Theatre Company. Playing the two Jenkins sisters are Kimberly King as Banetta Mabry and Taylor Renee Henderson as Beverly Jenkins. Banetta is the stoic, unbending sister and Kimberly’s presentation is spot-on. Banetta has a tremendous weight on her shoulders and is dealing with much more that the death of her father. She is not happy with her son’s selection of a life partner, and she also has a secret that will also come out later in the play. Henderson, as Beverly, is the outgoing, younger sister, and has a quick wit, biting comments and funny mannerisms. Beverly and Banetta butt heads throughout the play, until the end when all will surface.

Allyce Alloway as La’Trice Franklin

Playing Banetta’s husband is Durwood Murray as Pastor Reginald Mabry. Pastor Reginald has assumed the leadership of the church, once led by Pastor Bernard. It is Reginald’s job to present the eulogy for Pastor Bernard, and he is also dealing with a variety of family issues that come along, led by the constant conflict between Beverly and Banetta. Murray is outstanding in this portrayal of the Pastor, and you do not want to miss the eulogy he delivers, causing many in the audience to stand up and applaud. You also get to take part in the eulogy and become a part of the congregation.

Durwood Murray as Pastor Reginald Mabry delivers the eulogy.

Kiara Hudlin plays Simone Mabry, daughter of Banetta and Reginald. Jacob James plays Kenny Mabry, son of Banetta and Reginald. Both of them also have their own individual conflicts that will surface. One major issue is Kenny’s choice of a life partner, Logan Leibowitz played by Marley Bauer, a White neurotic Jewish gentleman. Kenny’s black family members, specifically his mother and sister, are not pleased with his relationship. Marley is impressive in his portrayal of Logan who is also dealing with a host of issues, most importantly trying to win over Kenny’s mother. Allyce Calloway plays La’Trice Franklin, Beverly’s daughter. La’Trice is an almost 16-year-old young lady and a “wantabe rapper” who also wants to know everybody’s business. Allyce presents this member of the family perfectly.

Jacod James as Kenny Mabry greets his neice La’Trice Franklin

The final member of the cast we do not see until toward the end of the play. Michael Amira Temple plays Brianna Jenkins, the shocking family secret Banetta has been keeping from the family. Her revelation will help bring a multitude of conflicts and issues to a head, making this a funeral to remember for a long time for this family. Will everyone enjoy Bernard’s favorite meal, chicken & biscuits & Dr Pepper, or will everyone go away mad? You’ll have to see the dramady to find out. This dramady has everything most will identify with within your own family – family conflicts and issues, laughter, love, healing, respect and resilience. As the dramady says, this is “family in its purest and fragile form”.

This entertaining play has a Creative Team of Oceanside Theatre Company’s Artistic Director Kevin “Blax” Burroughs, Stage Manager/Props & Set Dressing Tori Jones, Assistant Stage Manager Patrick Bator, Sound Designer & Original Music Andre Buck Jr., Costume Designer Emily Carter, Scenic Designer Reiko Huffman, and Lighting Designer Mashun Tucker.
“Chicken & Biscuits” will be onstage until March 24th at Oceanside Theatre Company in the Sunshine Brooks Theater at 217 N. Coast Highway. For tickets call 760-433-8900 or go online to www.OceansideTheatre.org . Next on stage at OTC will be the musical “Next to Normal” beginning on May 10th.

Join Us for a Richness of Giving Cleanup on March 23rd

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It’s that time of year again! Mark your calendars for the biannual Carlsbad Village Cleanup event happening on Saturday, March 23rd 2024 from 8am to 12pm. This community-wide event brings together volunteers of all ages for a morning of tidying up our beloved Village.

Presented by the Richness of Giving (ROG), this cleanup invites you, your friends, family, and neighbors to roll up your sleeves for a good cause. Meet at the Village Faire Shopping Center Courtyard to get your free event t-shirt, coffee, donuts and cleanup supplies. Then we’ll tackle litter removal and make our Village sparkle.

We’re proud to partner once again with Richness of Giving and thankful for all who come out to support. Let’s keep Carlsbad beautiful. See you on the 23rd!

Level 1: Improv Fundamentals

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Ready to let go, connect, and unleash your creativity? Join us for a fun journey of laughter, spontaneity and endless possibilities as we explore the fundamentals of improv in a supportive environment. Students will learn the fundamentals of improv through a series of engaging exercises, games, and scene work as each week builds on what was learned the previous week. We will focus on building trust, sharpening listening skills, gaining confidence to think creatively in the moment, the concept of Yes And…, and so much more. Not only will you have a ton of fun, you will build self-confidence, soft business skills, and meet new people!
Taught by Chris Shurland

REGISTER NOW

Routine Blood Donor Receives a Life Saving Transfusion

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By Anita Lightfoot, County of San Diego Communications Office
Mar. 18, 2024
On April 2nd, the County will launch its annual County Employee Blood Drive and mark a special anniversary. For the past 40 years, employees have rolled up their sleeves and donated thousands of units of blood to help others in need. Because the demand for blood never stops, this year the County is encouraging even more people to participate and give the gift of life. Here in San Diego, approximately 350 blood donations are required daily to meet the needs of hospitals and patients in crisis. For County employee Mary-Huyen Gonzalez, being on the receiving end of this life-saving gift has shown her firsthand how much a small act of kindness can impact others.

Anita Lightfoot is a group communications officer with the County of San Diego Communications Office.

Fix Auto Vista: Collision Repair with the Barragan Family Legacy

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VISTA, CA] – J & R Auto Body and Paint, Inc., a trusted fixture in the Vista community for over 17 years, proudly announces its transformation into Fix Auto Vista. This rebranding represents a significant milestone for the locally owned and operated collision repair center.

Under the leadership of Denisse Barragan and her father Ruben Barragan,Fix Auto Vista is leveraging the renowned Fix Auto brand’s expertise and resources while proudly maintaining its status as a family-owned business deeply rooted in the community. Fix Auto USA’s network is composed of independently owned facilities with one hundred percent ownership and control over their businesses. Each operator retains a personal stake in their body shop and remains deeply connected to their local market. At Fix Auto Vista, customers will experience the passion, drive, and personal commitment the Barragan family is known for the moment they walk in the door or call for assistance after a car accident.

Denisse Barragan and her father Ruben Barragan

Every Fix Auto member undergoes a rigorous evaluation before being approved to join, ensuring that customers receive only the best of the best in collision repair services,” said owner Denisse Barragan. “We look forward to continuing to serve the Vista community with the same commitment to excellence that we have demonstrated over the years.”

The recent relocation to a larger and more advanced facility at 2509 S. Santa Fe Ave. reaffirms the Barragan’s dedication to providing top-tier collision repair services and insurance claim support to the Vista community and North County region. Occupying a spacious 13,000 sq. ft. building, the new facility, equipped with cutting-edge technology and resources which Fix Auto Vista needs to maintain their many certifications from leading auto manufacturers, including Honda, Nissan, and Dodge.

Community involvement will remain a priority for Fix Auto Vista. The Barragan family has sponsored various events and organizations throughout Vista, showing their commitment to giving back to the community they cherish. Denisse Barragan’s dedication to community service has been recognized with awards, including the 2023 Vista Chamber of Commerce Businessperson of the Year award and the 1Collision Community Involvement Award.

Fix Auto Vista is committed to providing quality service and support as Vista’s premier collision repair center. With a legacy built upon the Barragan family’s dedication to excellence and community involvement, Fix Auto Vista will continue to elevate the standard of collision repair services in the Vista community and beyond. Customers can trust in Fix Auto Vista’s expertise, passion, and commitment to delivering top-tier collision repair services with personalized care after a car accident.

For more information about Fix Auto Vista and their services, please visit Fix Auto Vista’s Website at, www.fixautousa.com/vista
Contact Information: Fix Auto Vista, 2509 S. Santa Fe Ave., Vista, CA 92083
vista@fixautousa.com
(760) 724-4923

Soroptimists Donate to Shoe Drive

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Front (l-r): Soroptimist member Sherry Luz and guest speaker Summer Mason Back (l-r): Soroptimist members Lani Beltrano, Elizabeth Freed, Katie Melendez, Jackie Huyck, Pat Origlieri, Susan Roncone, Club President Thora Soyland, Runa Gunnars, Nelly Jarrous and Allison Temples.

VISTA, California, March 17, 2024— Soroptimist International of Vista and North County Inland (SI Vista NCI) donated over 45 pairs of new and gently used shoes to Vista Deputy Mayor Katie Melendez for her Children’s Shoe Drive held in March. “March 15 is National Shoe the World Day,” said Melendez. “Hearing stories of children in our community struggling without shoes, I felt compelled to bring people together for this cause.” After putting the word out on social media, Melendez, who is a member of the Vista Soroptimist club, enlisted her club’s help. Shoe donations were collected at the club’s March 15 Lunch Meeting held at the Vista Village Pub, with more donations dropped off throughout the day at the Vista Civic Center’s Vistix office. The drive was also extended for an additional week. The shoes will be given to three local organizations: Operation HOPE homeless shelter, One Safe Place Family Justice Center and MAAC Project Vista. For more information see soroptimistvista.org or contact Katie Melendez at kmelendez@cityofvista.com.

ABOUT SOROPTIMISTS OF VISTA AND NORTH COUNTY INLAND:
A global volunteer movement, Soroptimist International works to transform the lives of women and girls through a network of over 72,000 club members in 121 countries and territories worldwide.

Soroptimist International of Vista and North County Inland (SI Vista NCI) was chartered on March 23, 1953. A dynamic group of women primarily from Vista, San Marcos, Fallbrook, Bonsall and Escondido, the club seeks to make a difference in our community through offering scholarships and grants to local charities and by raising awareness and educating the public about issues affecting women and girls, such as domestic violence and human trafficking. For more information, see our website at soroptimistvista.org or email us at soroptimistinternationalvista@gmail.com.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon – San Marcos

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Detectives with the San Marcos Sheriff’s Station want the public’s help in finding the person responsible for shooting a man with a handgun.

It happened on Saturday, March 16, just after 12:30 a.m. near Questhaven and San Elijo Roads. Deputies responded to a call of a man who had been shot. The victim told deputies he was walking on a trail when he was approached by three individuals wearing dark hoodies. At some point, the victim was shot in the leg. The three individuals ran from the scene.

The victim requested help from nearby residents. He was taken to the hospital to be treated for his injuries and is expected to make a full recovery.

Deputies later recovered a ghost gun near the crime scene. So far, no suspects have been identified.

If you have any information about this incident, call the San Marcos Sheriff’s Station at (760) 751-4400. You can also call the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department at (858) 565-5200.

Media Contact: Detective David Arnold
David.Arnoldsr@sdsheriff.org
San Marcos Sheriff’s Station (760) 751-4400

Asalto con Arma Mortal – San Marcos
Víctima con un disparo en la pierna.

Los detectives del San Marcos Sheriff’s Station quieren la ayuda del público para encontrar a la persona responsable de dispararle a un hombre con una pistola.

Ocurrió el Sábado 16 de Marzo, poco después de las 12:30 a.m., cerca de las carreteras Questhaven y San Elijo. Los oficiales respondieron a una llamada de un hombre que había recibido un disparo. La víctima les dijo a los oficiales que estaba caminando por un sendero cuando se le acercaron tres personas que vestían sudaderas con capucha oscuras. En algún momento, la víctima recibió un disparo en la pierna. Los tres individuos huyeron corriendo del lugar.

La víctima pidió ayuda a los vecinos del lugar. Fue trasladado al hospital para recibir tratamiento por sus heridas y se espera que se recupere por completo.

Más tarde, los oficiales recuperaron un arma fantasma cerca de la escena del crimen. Hasta el momento no se ha identificado a ningún sospechoso.

Si tiene alguna información sobre este incidente, llame al San Marcos Sheriff’s Station al (760) 751-4400. También puede llamar al Departamento del Alguacil del Condado de San Diego al (858) 565-5200.

Para Más Información: Detective David Arnold
David.Arnoldsr@sdsheriff.org
San Marcos Sheriff’s Station (760) 751-4400

Women’s Basketball CSUSM Begins NCAA West Regional with Blowout Win Against Point Loma

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AZUSA, Calif. – The No. 24 and second-seeded Cal State San Marcos women’s basketball team (24-6) earned an 82-61 win over seventh-seeded Point Loma (18-13) in the quarterfinals of the NCAA Division II West Regional on Friday afternoon at Felix Event Center on the campus of Azusa Pacific University.

TOP PERFORMERS
Jordan Vasquez – 30 points | 12 rebounds | 3 steals
Mina Tameilau – 9 points | 6 rebounds | 5 assists | 1 steal
Malia Mastora – 9 points | 2 rebounds | 1 assist | 1 steal | 1 block
Charity Gallegos – 8 points | 7 assists | 3 steals
Truitt Reilly – 8 points | 6 rebounds | 1 assist | 1 block

HOW IT HAPPENED
CSUSM led 26-16 after the first 10 minutes of play as Vasquez led the quarter with 15 points and four rebounds. The Cougars shot 56.3% (9-of-16) in the first period while the Sea Lions checked in at 46.2% (6-of-13).
The Cougars went up 33-20 on a Reilly layup with 6:25 to play in the second quarter, but back-to-back 3-pointers by the Sea Lions’ Tavia Rowell and Elle Hanson made it a seven-point game at 33-26 with 5:38 to go.
CSUSM had a 47-28 lead over PLNU at the half, shooting exactly the same in the second quarter as the first while holding the Sea Lions to 35.7% (5-of-14).
Vazquez ended the first half one rebound shy of a double-double with 21 points and nine rebounds.
The Cougars took a 21-point lead with their first basket of the second half as a Vasquez layup put CSUSM up 49-28 with 9:35 to go in the third period.
Vasquez earned the double-double with her 10th board of the game with 9:17 remaining in the third quarter.
The Cougars led 62-44 following the third period, shooting 50% (7-of-14) while the Sea Lions came in at 37.5% (6-of-16).
CSUSM posted its largest lead of the game at 27 points with just 3:13 left in the contest on a driving layup by Reilly to make it 76-49.

FAST BREAKS
The Cougars will be making their second consecutive trip to the NCAA West Regional Semifinals.
Last season, CSUSM defeated Azusa Pacific, 75-67.
Jordan Vasquez collected her 21st double-double of the season (30 pts, 12 reb.) and the 47th of her collegiate career.
Vasquez’s 30 points were a career high.
CSUSM shot 52.5% (31-of-59) from the field, the fourth highest of the season, while Point Loma turned in a 41.4% (24-of-58) field-goal percentage.
The Cougars won the battle of the boards, 39-26.
CSUSM got 12 points off second-chance attempts while the Sea Lions were held scoreless on the offensive boards.
The Cougars recorded 17 points off PLNU’s 14 turnovers while the Sea Lions only tallied nine points off CSUSM’s 10 turnovers.
CSUSM dished out a season-best 23 assists with Charity Gallegos leading the way with her season-high seven.
The Cougars collected 11 steals, their second most of the season, with Vasquez and Gallegos tallying three each.
CSUSM is now 6-9 in the all-time series against PLNU and has won five of the last six meetings against the Sea Lions.

UP NEXT
CSUSM will face No. 16 and third-seeded Western Washington in the semifinals of the NCAA West Regional on Saturday at 5 p.m. in the Felix Event Center.

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