San Diego has its first Master Mezcalier
Downtown’s Saltbox restaurant can now boast that it has San Diego’s first Master Mezcalier on its staff.
Principal bartender Jen Queen has been awarded the title of Master Mezcalier, a title so exclusive that only 13 others around the world possess it. Similar to the wine expert title of Master Sommelier, Queen’s new title signifies that she is an expert in mezcal; a Mexican distilled spirit similar to tequila that has traditionally been produced in Oaxaca. The difference between the two is that mescal must be produced from 100 percent agave plants, whereas Tequila needs only 51 percent. This gives mescal its unique, rich flavor and reputation as a premiere Mexican liquor. Queen’s title required three years of study, several trips to Mexico and seven days of testing in Oaxaca. She then completed a final exam that tested her knowledge of subjects like the characteristics of agaves, history of mezcal production, and even service standards. Her near-perfect score finalized the certification process, granting her the title of Master Mezcalier. The new mescal expert has already put her skills to good use on Saltbox’s new menu, crafting cocktails that highlight agave spirits. To celebrate Queen’s certification, Saltbox will host a Dia de la Mezcales dinner party. The event will take place on Thursday, Jan. 23 at 7 p.m. and will feature a selection of mezcals paired with worldly dishes. For more information, call 619-515-3003, or visit saltboxrestaurant.com.
Kim Kawada named SANDAG Chief Deputy Executive Director
San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) TransNet and Legislative Affairs Program Director Kim Kawada has been chosen as the new chief deputy executive director for the regional planning agency. She succeeds Renée Wasmund, who will retire after a decade-long career at SANDAG. The planning agency consists of 330 employees and a $1.15 billion budget. A 19-year SANDAG employee, Kawada served as the key advisor for the past ten budgets, as well as overseeing many of the agency’s key projects. As the chief deputy executive director, she will over see SANDAG’s day-to-day operations.
“Kim has hit the ground running because of her proven skills as a seasoned executive, her institutional knowledge, and her exceptional work ethic,” SANDAG Executive Director Gary Gallegos said in a press release. “The transition has been seamless.”
Kevin Crawford named President and CEO of local United Way branch
Longtime Carlsbad fire chief and current interim city manager Kevin Crawford has been named the new president and CEO of United Way of San Diego County by its board of directors. The local chapter of the 93-year-old nonprofit is part of a network of nearly 1,800 community-based United Ways around the world. Crawford has been on United Way’s board of directors for five years, most recently acting as its Education Vision Council char. He also serves on the board of several other nonprofits, including LEAD San Diego, 211 San Diego, the Burn Institute, the Regional Communications System, and Hospice North County. Crawford replaces retiring United Way President and CEO Doug Sawyer. “This is an incredibly dynamic time in United Way’s history,” Crawford said in a press release. “My work as a board member and Vision Council chair for the past five years has prepared me to lead the organization down the path that Doug Sawyer started, leveraging community relationships to benefit the entire county in the years to come.”
Jsix announces temporary closure for renovations
Downtown’s Jsix, which describes its style as a modern-take on coastal Californian cuisine, announced last month its doors have been shut until mid-February to undergo its first major renovation after operating for nearly a decade. “We are keeping the best components of the old Jsix, and turning the volume up to 11 with the things we have always wanted,” Jsix Executive Chef Christian Graves said in a press release. While the restaurant will be closed for the two-month project, patrons can continue to enjoy LOUNGEsix, the rooftop lounge on the fourth floor of Kimpton’s Hotel Palomar, which will feature a full menu, along with signature cocktails and brews.
