Having advised and served the last seven mayors of San Diego, and two interim mayors, I have indeed heard many “State of the City” addresses by both Republican and Democratic office holders. The address last week by Mayor Kevin Faulconer was one of the most sincere and down to earth speeches by not a partisan mayor, but a true public servant who is concerned about his city and its problems and future.
Our nation’s homeless crisis has hit every city, community and neighborhood. As you all know, I travel all over North America and I see this growing homeless crisis everywhere. Mayor Faulconer addressed this issue head on: “There is more that our region can do and will do. This is an unprecedented problem that demands an unprecedented level of action.”
Faulconer also seriously talked about more affordable housing and our neighborhoods’ continuing need for street repairs. He spoke about San Diego citizens of low incomes and said that our city shouldn’t be just for the rich and affluent. Right on Kevin!
And yes, I was so happy to hear about his push for our convention center’s badly needed expansion: more jobs and tourist visitor money. I will strongly support and urge all San Diegans to get behind Mayor Faulconer’s proposed hotel tax hike to be earmarked for street repairs, homeless programs and the convention center expansion.
Needless to say, Mayor Faulconer’s speech was well received by the overflowing crowd at the Balboa Theatre.
Let’s go forward with the Plaza de Panama project
Not long ago respected civic leader, businessman and philanthropist Dr. Irwin Jacobs came up with this project that would create more than six acres of badly needed car-free parkland, gardens and plazas for our beloved Balboa Park, including an underground paid parking structure with a 2.2 acre rooftop park, a pedestrian bypass bridge and other accessibility improvements.
Then Mayor Filner screwed this project all up and Mayor Faulconer gave his solid support for it last Thursday night.
Interestingly, the entire crowd could see Councilman Chris Ward’s expressions and his not applauding one time during the mayor’s speech touting this important project. Just what is your stand on this project Mr. Ward? Todd Gloria supports this project 100 percent by the way.
The Chargers … Bye Felicia!
Over five years ago I predicted that those lame Chargers would be leaving San Diego. Mayor Faulconer’s remark: “San Diego didn’t lose the Chargers, the Chargers lost San Diego,” made media headlines all across the country. Supervisor Ron Roberts and Councilman Scott Sherman’s remarks were also right on! 73 percent of San Diegans disapprove of the way the Chargers handled the situation, and a vast majority rightfully blame Dean Spanos (only 6 percent blame the mayor). Now let us more than ever support the San Diego Aztecs and bring the Raiders to our city. I just love those outfits!
Nicole’s quickie movie reviews
Fences – One of the best movies ever. Viola Davis should get an Oscar.
The Bye-Bye Man – Worst movie ever. Bye bye Felicia.
Live By Night – Another great gangster movie, very entertaining.
Monster Trucks – Don’t drive, walk or run to this movie. Run Forrest, run far away from this mess.
Hidden Figures – Run to this movie, it’s the best. You will laugh, cry and be proud. It’s about time that black women get this long overdue recognition.
Silence – You would rather get your eyes poked out by a hot poker than see this boring movie.
Sing – Fabulous! Wonderful cartoon.
Patriot’s Day – Bring on the apple pie and red white and blue! It will make you proud to be an American.
La La Land – C … period.
