I am writing to say goodbye to the readers, hardworking activists and wonderful shop owners of La Jolla. I continue to chase my boyfriend all over the country as his job took us to New York City, back to La Jolla and now to Oakland. I reported for the La Jolla Village News for a few years beginning in 2005 when residents were deciding whether to establish the maintenance assessment district (M.A.D) in Bird Rock and while the boulevard was torn up awaiting roundabouts. I reported on residents’ fierce opposition to building a three-story project on Bird Rock Avenue in a two-story zone. When I returned to the newspaper in 2009, I found La Jolla Boulevard flourishing with flowers and enterprising businesses like Bird Rock Coffee Roasters, Beaumont’s Eatery, Tap Fever Studios and Elizabeth Allen Atelier, among others. I discovered the namesake of the community — the rock covered with birds — and the tide pools below. In the summer, I took leisurely swims out to the rock and headed north for other pocket beaches. I experienced the crushing power of the waves at Windansea and the swells at Boomer’s Beach, which were ideal for bodysurfing. I listened to many compelling authors discuss their world views and writings at Warwick’s Books, and thoroughly enjoyed some whiskey, Irish harp music and Yeats poetry at D.G. Wills Books on St. Patrick’s Day. I ate at Jack’s once before it closed overnight. La Jolla is a never-ending discovery. The activists and volunteers who are dedicated to preserving its character and helping it develop thoughtfully are awe-inspiring. If Joe La Cava, president of the La Jolla Community Planning Association and a man seemingly everywhere-at-all-times, ever retires from his civic work, the Village should name a structure or dedicate a monument in his honor. I’ve had the privilege of meeting Philomène Offen, who is single-handedly trying to piece together the history of Bird Rock at her small exhibit inside Bird Rock Coffee Roasters. I was struck by the dedication of Esther Viti, chair of the Nell Carpenter Beautification Committee, whose mission is to keep the Village tidy and uncluttered. I am impressed by the culinary passion of La Jolla native, 32-year-old Arturo Kassel and his business partners, who are committed to sourcing local food for their popular restaurant Whisknladle and bistro Prep Kitchen. High school physics teacher Martin Teachworth kept popping up on my radar screen because his relentless efforts to turn his students into mathematicians and scientists made good news. The La Jolla Village News helps tie these great people and places together by keeping an eye on its development, celebrating its stories and achievements and informing readers about its offerings. Jenna Frazier is taking the reins as the reporter for the Village News. She brings creativity, a sharp mind and a fresh perspective to the community. Stay engaged through the La Jolla Village News. Contact Jenna anytime with story tips at [email protected]. It’s been a pleasure to work and live in La Jolla. I’m sure to return soon.