Business Bits is a new section in San Diego Downtown News where we will highlight news in the commercial business and nonprofit sector as it applies to the organizations themselves or the business community at large. Please send your “bits” to [email protected] – Ed.
Leaders in the arts field join Jacobs Center project: The Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation (JCNI) has added two leaders to implement an Art & Design Plan at the Village at Market Creek Plaza. Victoria Hamilton, JCNI’s first director of arts and community development, and Leah Goodwin, director of visual and performing arts programs, were appointed into their respective positions to move forward the vibrant cultural center JCNI has created in partnership with southeast San Diego neighborhoods, according to a press release. Previously, Hamilton served as the founding executive director of the City of San Diego Commission for Arts and Culture, where she oversaw the city’s $8 million arts and culture program for 24 years. Her work included securing the National Endowment for the Arts grant that helps develop the Art & Design Plan for the Village at Market Creek. Goodwin has spent over 25 years working to develop visual and performing arts, arts education, festivals, fundraising programs as a gateway in creating community partnerships. At JCNI she will focus on developing gallery programming and music, dance, and theater performances that is accessible to the community, as well as creating institutional partnerships and arts education programs.
Cavignac & Associates news: San Diego-based risk management and insurance brokerage firm Cavignac & Associates has acquired former BH Gold Insurance Agency customer service representative Claire Owens, according to a press release from the firm. Owens will serve as the service team account administrator and provide support to each team at the firm, which specializes in the building industry.
Luxury eyewear company chooses Downtown: Alexander Daas luxury eyewear opened its first retail showroom in the Gaslamp District at 431 J St. The brand is handmade in Japan and designed in California. Alexander Daas specializes in prescription and nonprescription optics and sunglasses, as well as a line of eyewear for petite faces. The showroom also carries other independent eyewear brands.
Nominations for philanthropy awards sought: The Association of Fundraising Professionals, San Diego chapter, is still accepting nomination submissions for outstanding philanthropists, volunteers and non-profit organizations. The organization will recognize eight recipients at an awards luncheon on November 7 in celebration of the 41st National Philanthropy Day. The deadline for nominations is July 15, at 5 p.m. For more information, visit NPD2013.org.
Bang Bang gets representation: J Public Relations has added Bang Bang, a new Gaslamp Quarter social destination, to their client list, according to a press release from the firm. Bang Bang, an Asian street market style restaurant and live entertainment venue, is scheduled to open this July at 526 Market St.
