In spite of economic uncertainty, San Diegans supported the region’s nonprofits with generous giving in 2011, welcomed an old favorite back to the stage, and launched the world’s first Center for Surf Research while an optimistic hospitality industry looked to the future as it announced expansion plans, hotel projects and new restaurants set to open or get under way in 2012.

Even in a healthy economy, successfully running a restaurant is a difficult business. But when coupled with the economic complexities of rising commodity prices and lower consumer spending, it can be dramatically harder to stay afloat.

The Navarra family has been in the furniture business for more than 60 years, and as the third generation takes the reins of Jerome’s Furniture, no one is more proud than Jerry Navarra.

The Village Club Card Room in Chula Vista is the oldest operating card room in San Diego County, and its owner, Harvey Souza, has seen it through its 65-year legacy.

Two new board members and a new president will begin their service on the Board of Trustees of the Zoological Society of San Diego in January.