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Hello, Downtown!
Algenesis Labs is a forward-thinking local company whose biodegradable shoes are both stylish and comfortable. I wrote about these plant-based shoes (made without microplastics) in a recent column. I later found out the shoes are comfy – not to mention conversation starters – because an Algenesis rep read the story and sent me a pair.
With shoes now afoot, I’m still trying to manifest the second half of the destiny I proposed in that column: getting into the TED Conferences speaking lineup when the flagship TED Talks come to downtown San Diego in March 2027.
Backing up. I initially set out to praise the San Diego Tourism Authority and its marketing agency The Shipyard. They brainstormed giving Algenesis flip-flops to attendees at the last TED shindig in Vancouver. It was an incentive gift inviting guests to experience both the beachiness and the entrepreneurial spirit here in San Diego.
It turns out Algenesis makes more than low-carbon-footprint flip-flops. Their line of BlueView shoes made with custom Soleic material includes loafers and hightops. My preference was Aquarium Denim Blue loafers.
I wore them to a fancy gala. A foundation CEO told me they were “San Diego stylish.” At an upscale Bankers Hill restaurant, my lunchmate raved about my plant-based shoes. She referenced my loafers to three acquaintances who stopped by the table to say hello.
People are fascinated by biodegradable shoes. This anecdote would be a great opener for a TED Talk, right? Plus, I’m a TEDx San Diego alum and a reputable spokesperson for independent local media. To the TED Talks organizers: I’ve got smart shoes and a newsworthy topic. Happy to do a tight five, or whatever you need. I’m at rondonoho@gmail.com.
Ron Donoho
Downtown News newsletter host
Downtown story spotlight
Fernando Tatis Jr. loses petition over contract advance he signed as a teen, ordered to pay Big League Advance millions
By Dorian Hargrove • Times of San Diego
A judge ruled Tatis owes 10% of his career earnings to Big League Advance Fund, which he gave up as a teen for a $2 million advance.
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