Editor's note: With the new year ahead of us, the Times decided to give readers a peek into the possibilities that stand before us. We're looking at the future with an eye to what some of our community, business and cultural leaders could contribute in the coming months.
Nick Schaar and Bryn Stroyke All eyes are on the developers of the Garden Del Mar as construction begins this year on the mixed-use project at the old gas station site. While they had to delay a few months due to the recession, Schaar said they are getting their financing in order, a contractor lined up and looking forward to breaking ground this year. Construction will commence in the second half of 2009, and Schaar said he expects the project to be complete by Halloween 2010.
While the credit market deep freeze has made financing more difficult, Schaar said the economic downturn has also meant cheaper prices for materials, so they can more easily afford luxury finishes.
Del Mar is eager to see this project move forward, a critical step in the revitalization of the Village.
Zach Groban Since Groban took over Rusty's Del Mar in 2005, the surf shop has become an integral part of the community, sponsoring and participating in numerous surfing-related events and organizations.
Groban, who is also a part-time lifeguard, donates time and resources to the Del Mar Lifeguard Association, Junior Lifeguards and Del Mar Surf Club. He also works with the lifeguard association on Wounded Warriors, a program where able-bodied surfers take wounded veterans surfing or canoeing so they can become comfortable in the ocean again.
The Del Mar native also started the Art of Surfing event last year, which included a surf contest, art show and an impressive display by surfboard shapers. Groban said he is hoping to host the event again in 2009.
But that's not all. This year, Groban is also developing a six-man outrigger canoe club in conjunction with the lifeguards, which will be open to the public.
Tim Fennell The general manager of the Del Mar Fairgrounds has a busy year ahead with many projects that will have regional implications for both Del Mar and Solana Beach.
The sewer force main will be replaced in January and February.
The much-anticipated environmental document for the fairgrounds master plan is slated for release by March, and, after an extended review period, the fairgrounds hopes to have it approved by the end of the year.
The installation of the arena roof must be completed by April, which will allow for new sorts of events at the fairgrounds, such as the Sockers soccer games.
The general manager will also be tackling a new contract for the thoroughbred race meet operator, which is up at the end of the year. Discussions will likely ensue about the possible closure of Hollywood Park and more racing days transferring to Del Mar.
Oh, and there's that little thing called the San Diego County Fair.
Mike Peterson The headmaster of the Winston School has a big year ahead with two major projects to oversee.
First, there is the continued task of fundraising for the Ninth Street Shores property, where the school is located. The school is hoping to contribute half the total $8.5 million purchase price, but must at least clear a $1.3 million loan. Peterson said he is optimistic the school can raise that and more because they are in a better position to apply for grants this year than last.
The city-led master planning process for the property is expected to begin this year and Peterson will have an important seat at the table as one of the primary stakeholders. Along with the city process, Peterson will begin long-term planning for refurbishing the school's aging facilities, which must begin to be replaced by 2018.
Rachel Buehler Del Mar native and Torrey Pines graduate Rachel Buehler had a pretty decent 2008. Playing on the United States women's Olympic soccer team, she traveled to Beijing and came home with the gold medal around her neck.
Now this defender, known to have one of the fiercest tackles in women's soccer, will be part of the inaugural season of the Women's Professional Soccer league in 2009. The league, partly owned by the NBA's Steve Nash and former Yahoo! president Jeff Mallett, features seven franchises across the country with plans for more in 2010.
Buehler's team, the Bay Area FC Gold Pride, will open the season on April 5 at its home field of Buck Shaw Stadium at Santa Clara University. Find out more about Buehler and her Pride at fcgoldpride.com.
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