LA JOLLA – It was one of those spectacular La Jolla nights that exploded with fun energy – for a purpose.
The evening, titled Cocktails on OFF Coast Walk with Wisteria Cottage as the venue, was on the calendar for many prominent La Jollans to support the revamped coastal trail.
One who had to miss the event but was there in spirit was Diane Szekely. Szekely sponsored a new bench in honor of her late husband, Alex, as the coastal trail was part of their first date.
The night featured Turtle Rock Ridge Wines, sponsor Orli Hotel, Café Athena’s fabulous taverna cuisine, and Deering Banjos.
Why banjos? Well, the featured artist was banjo phenom Alison Brown and her Quintet. Brown is truly a treasure, a multi-Grammy winner. She now has quite a following in La Jolla.
Every detail was considered, including having members of the Bishop’s Trail Squad and La Jolla Boy Scout Troop 4 escort guests to their cars at night’s end.
Brenda Fake, founding member of Friends of Coast Walk Trail. (Photo by Margo Schwab/Special to La Jolla Village News) 
San Diego Native American Elders Kilma Latin – Pala Council, Johnny Bear Contreras – San Pasqual Council, Dr. Stanley Rodriquez of the Santa Isabel Council. (Photo by Margo Schwab/Special to La Jolla Village News) 
Musician Garry West and his wife Alison Brown with Rob Hagey. (Photo by Margo Schwab/Special to La Jolla Village News) 
Jody McLeod of legendary Jody’s Muffin, Brian Malk and Edie Munk, yes the daughter of oceanographer Walter Munk, and a conservationist in her own right. (Photo by Margo Schwab/Special to La Jolla Village News) 
Sue Subkow of Love on a Leash therapy dogs with former Fox News anchor and correspondent Jamie Colby and her brother Jonathan Colby, retired judge with his famous therapy dog Gracie. (Photo by Margo Schwab/Special to La Jolla Village News) 
La Jolla Boy Scout Troop 4 volunteers. (Photo by Margo Schwab/Special to La Jolla Village News) 
Special guests, SDPD’s Lt. David ‘Bryan’ Brecht, Lt. Jo Makwana, Capt. Tammy Clendenen and Sgt. Ricky Escalante. (Photo by Margo Schwab/Special to La Jolla Village News)
The benefit is the result of tireless community members like Brenda Fake and Sherry Ahern.
Brenda Fake had this to say: “Cocktails on OFF Coast Walk was an example of how La Jolla Coastal Conservancy hopes to bring our community together to continue restoring and protecting the places we love for generations to come.”
