All Monte Carlo for MCASD
Last year it was Monte Carlo meets the Roaring Twenties; this year, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) will celebrate the glamour and ambiance of Monte Carlo itself.
Christened Monte Carlo! Monte Carlo!, the 30th annual gala takes place on Saturday, Sept. 9 at 7 p.m.
Stripping all color from the museum, MCASD aims to create a surreal atmosphere that will make guests feel they have been transported across the ocean to the Mediterranean principality of Monaco.
The evening will be dressed solely in black and white, and guests are asked to dress accordingly.
Cocktails and caviar will be served in the black-and-white garden, followed by dinner and dancing in the courtyard and a French Swing Orchestra.
Late-night revelry will ensue with a French discotheque, Monaco-style casino and silent auction.
Proceeds from the glamorous affair will benefit the museum.
As the principle fund-raiser, the gala has raised more than $4.5 million for MCASD in the past 30 years. Between 600 and 700 people are expected to attend the gala this year.
Tickets cost $1,000 per person for top-level, Topiary guests; $500 for Trellis guests; and $75 for discotheque attendees.
For more information, call (858) 454-3541, ext. 117, or visit www.mcasd.org.

OB jazz fest to feature sterling lineup
The second annual Ocean Beach Jazz Festival will take place on Sunday, Sept. 10, from noon to 7 p.m. The festival will feature the Jazz 88 All-Stars, Sweet Baby J’ai, the Charles McPherson Quintet and the Cheathams, the Sweet Baby Blue Band, and Clark Terry with the Red Holloway Quartet.
Radio station KSDS (Jazz 88) partnered with the Ocean Beach Mainstreet Association for the event’s second year.
“It’s just too much fun,” said Denny Knox, executive director of the Mainstreet Association. “It was so successful last year and everyone had such a great time. We’re hoping to have the same kind of success this year.”
Knox advised attendees to bring a hat and wear sunscreen, as there will be plenty of sun at the festival.
The gathering does not allow strollers, pets, smoking or chairs. Seating will be provided. No food may be brought into the event, as vendors will provide food, beer and wine. Attendees must be 21 years or older.
The festival will take place at 5075 Newport Ave., near the OB Pier parking lot. Tickets are available online for $45 in advance, $50 at the door.
For more information, call (619) 224-4906 or visit www.objazz.org.