22nd DAA
Restoration at fairgrounds begins
DEL MAR — A Feb. 24 groundbreaking officially began a restoration project to convert back to wetlands a large vacant parcel south of the Del Mar Fairgrounds that has for years been used as an overflow parking lot primarily during the San Diego County Fair and thoroughbred race meet.
Board nixes alternative use plans for Surfside
DEL MAR — A request for interest for alternative uses for an underused facility at the Del Mar Fairgrounds has been officially terminated, scrapping proposals to transform Surfside Race Place into a microbrewery, luxury theaters, a family entertainment center with high-tech bowling or a combination of all three.
Board honors employee, supports train stop and mini-satellite wagering site
DEL MAR — Employee recognition, support for a seasonal train platform, a traffic study update and approval of mini-satellite wagering were addressed at the Feb. 11 meeting of the 22nd District Agricultural Association board of directors.
Two honored for combined service of 45 years
DEL MAR — Two Del Mar Fairgrounds employees were recognized at the Jan. 14 meeting for their combined service of nearly half a century.
Fall race meet goes ‘Old Hollywood’
DEL MAR — The 2014 summer horse races at the Del Mar Fairgrounds will remain “Cool as Ever,” as the famous slogan promises. But the iconic blue and gold diamonds have been scratched from the lineup as the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club readies for the 15-day fall meet this November.
Sierra Club sues Coastal Commission over fairgrounds decision
DEL MAR — The Sierra Club San Diego filed a lawsuit on Jan. 8 against the California Coastal Commission, challenging the agency’s Nov. 13 approval of a permit that allows the 22nd District Agricultural Association to continue using a vacant lot east of the Del Mar Fairgrounds for year-round parking and other activities.
Del Mar again comes to aid of small northern fair
DEL MAR — Christmas came early once again for the Modoc District Fair when the 22nd District Agricultural Association board of directors agreed at the Dec. 17 meeting to give $25,000 to its significantly smaller counterpart in the northeast corner of the state.
Fair to start work on parking studies
DEL MAR — Del Mar Fairgrounds officials are eager to begin traffic studies that allow use of a vacant lot east of the state-owned facility even though they have a decade to complete them.
Trail to be named for former senator
DEL MAR — In recognition of Christine Kehoe’s longstanding efforts to protect the environment, coastal resources and, most notably, the San Dieguito River, the 22nd District Agricultural Association board of directors agreed at Dec. 17 meeting to name part of the Coast to Crest Trail after the former state senator.
Holiday of Lights may stay dark
DEL MAR — As many people discovered, some after driving to the Del Mar Fairgrounds, the 2013 Holiday of Lights was canceled this year because of an ongoing project to widen the turf track.
