New San Diego Fest Head Announced

Paul Daspit has retired as director of the San Diego Thanksgiving Festival, a position he has held since 2011. Taking his place is Bill Adams, president of America’s Finest City Dixieland Jazz Society and son of Alan Adams, a former Festival director. Bill Adams has had a long association with the Society and Festival as well as extensive experience in the planning and production of events. Commenting as he takes on this new challenge, Adams said, “My involvement with A.F.C.D.J.S. originates from the very first year when we were part of the Holiday Bowl. Like many other volunteers, I was interested in supporting the founders of the Festival and Society. Throughout the years, my support and involvement has grown as well as serving as a member of the Board and President of the Society. “Working with many of the former officers of this organization, including Alan Adams, Mary Solsbak, and Paul Daspit, has provided exceptional examples of leadership, teamwork and community while supporting our collective great love of Jazz. With the retirement of Paul Daspit and recognizing his many years of dedicated leadership, the organization will continue to support and promote Jazz in San Diego in the best way possible for years to come.”