# North Park Main Street ## Call for Artist URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/call-for-artist/ Call to Artists: Event Design Portfolio Opportunity North Park Main Street is seeking a talented local artist to develop the visual identity for this year’s North Park Music Festival. We are looking for a creative individual who can design a cohesive and eye-catching portfolio that will be used across multiple event assets. Scope of Work: The selected artist will be responsible for creating the following event materials: Event Flyer (8.5 x 11 & 11 x 17) Event T-Shirt Event Logo Event Map (layout and design) Design Elements (individual assets from the overall design for promotional use) Budget: The total budget for this project is $600. How to Apply: Interested artists should submit the following: Portfolio showcasing relevant design work. A brief statement about your design style and what North Park means to you. Contact information. Please submit applications by 5 pm on February 28, 2025, to info@northparkmainstreet.com. Please title your email “NPMF 2025 Call for Artists – YOUR NAME” We look forward to working with a passionate artist who can bring our event to life with a unique and engaging design! --- ## Explore Kick Off Presentation URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/explore-kick-off-presentation/ Hello, Thank you to everyone who attended our Business Mixer! If you missed the meeting, we’ll be sharing the presentation below for anyone who would like to review it. EXPLORE NP – Kick Off 2025 About North Park Main Street: North Park Main Street is both a business improvement district established by the City of San Diego, and a Main Street program affiliated with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. As a volunteer-based, 501(c) (6) non-profit organization, North Park Main Street (NPMS) advocates for North Park’s business community, administers the North Park Business Improvement District (BID), and champions development that preserves the community’s historic integrity, supports its Arts, Culture & Entertainment District, and promotes an urban, pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining environment. Explore North Park Strengthen community engagement, drive economic growth for local businesses, and increase awareness of everything North Park has to offer by fostering a deeper connection between residents and visitors, we will showcase North Park’s vibrant arts, culture, dining, and retail scenes while ensuring its long-term vitality and success. --- ## Mid-City GO Soft Launches February 3rd. URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/mid-city-go-soft-launches-february-3rd/ Mid-City GO is a free, electric ride-share service designed to connect the communities of North Park and City Heights. Powered by zero-emission vehicles, we aim to provide easy, on-demand access to support a more cohesive transit system, all while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting a cleaner future. For more information, visit the project website: https://www.midcitygo.com/ To download the app and ride, visit: https://city.ridewithvia.com/san-diego The Mid City Community Shuttle (“Mid-City GO”) is funded through the new statewide Clean Mobility Options (CMO) Voucher Pilot Program (CMO) The project is part of the California Climate Investments(CCI), a statewide initiative that puts billions of Cap-and-Trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health and the environment — particularly in disadvantaged communities, and California Energy Commission’s (CEC) Clean Transportation Program, which is investing more than $1 billion to accelerate the deployment of zero-emission transportation infrastructure and support in-state manufacturing and workforce training and development. ​ CMO is administered by CALSTART, in partnership with Shared-Use Mobility Center and CivicWell.​ --- ## Small Business and Restaurant Assistance Program URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/small-business-and-restaurant-assistance-program/ The Development Services Department’s Small Business and Restaurant Assistance Program provides dedicated resources and information to help qualified small businesses and restaurants citywide recover and rebuild from the COVID-19 pandemic and support economic recovery. The services are designed to help qualified small businesses and restaurants with their planning and permitting needs, making it faster and easier to get the permitting, construction and inspection help they need for a speedy recovery. Qualifying Small Businesses All new construction projects for small businesses (25 or fewer employees) that are located in the City of San Diego, have a valid business tax certificate and operate in the following industries qualify: Home offices and businesses Catering facilities Retail shops Hair salons, barbershops, nail salons and spas Fitness centers and instructional studios Breweries, distilleries and wineries Entertainment and music venues Restaurants, tasting rooms and bars* *These small businesses are exempted from the 25 or fewer employee maximum.   Learn more by visiting: https://www.sandiego.gov/development-services/news-programs/small-business-restaurant-assistance-program --- ## Make the Pledge to Shop Small at Shop Local Saturday 2024! URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/make-the-pledge-to-shop-small-at-shop-local-saturday-2024/ North Park Main Street (NPMS) invites the San Diego community to Shop Local, Shop North Park this holiday season. Shop Local Saturday is supported by US Bank and their work with small businesses. NPMS will be hosting a kickoff event on Saturday, November 30, 2024, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. The bustling and eclectic array of businesses in the North Park will be offering fantastic sales, seasonal specials, and fun surprises. Shop gifts, participate in special activities, and support local businesses this holiday season.   The event will kick off at A7D Creative Group (2867 University Ave), celebrating it’s 20th anniversary with opening remarks from San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and Assembly Member Christopher Ward.   North Park Main Street has collaborated with community members to host various activities around the neighborhood during the event including live music, art, and a scavenger hunt! Customers who spend $75 or more in North Park can turn in their receipts at our booth in front of A7D for a free Shop Local goodie bag.   “North Park is a lively, dynamic neighborhood, and Shop Local is the perfect way to support this wonderful community” said Mark West, Executive Director of North Park Main Street. “Keeping your dollars local is essential to ensuring that North Park continues to thrive! Travel Magazine recently named North Park as one of the 16 most up-and-coming neighborhoods in the United States.”   North Park Main Street encourages those looking for unique and personal gifts for their loved ones to attend Shop Local North Park this holiday season. Visit https://northparkmainstreet.com/shop-local-saturday/ for more information on specials and follow @NorthParkMainStreet on Instagram for more updates.   About North Park Main Street: North Park Main Street is both a business improvement district established by the City of San Diego, and a Main Street program affiliated with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. As a volunteer-based, 501(c) (6) non-profit organization, North Park Main Street (NPMS) advocates for North Park’s business community, administers the North Park Business Improvement District (BID), and champions development that preserves the community’s historic integrity, supports its Arts, Culture & Entertainment District, and promotes an urban, pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining environment. --- ## Director’s Digest: November URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/directors-digest-november/ For November’s Director’s Digest, we are sharing Mark West’s conversation with Granada House as they dive into his background, the excitement around North Park, and North Park Main does, and what we are looking to accomplish. --- ## Business for Breakfast: Johan’s Journey with Rise & Shine Hospitality Group URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/business-for-breakfast-johans-journey-with-rise-shine-hospitality-group/ In a recent conversation, Johan, the visionary behind the successful Rise & Shine breakfast empire, shared insights into his journey from launching his first restaurant to expanding into new ventures. His story is a testament to the power of seizing opportunities, adapting to challenges, and continually evolving. Getting Started Johan’s journey into the restaurant industry began with a sense of adventure and a drive to seize opportunities. At 19, uncertain about his future, he followed advice to travel and save money, spending a transformative year exploring Europe and Asia. This experience broadened his perspective and solidified his belief in the opportunities available in the U.S. “When I turned 25, I gave myself an ultimatum. I’m going to give myself two and a half years to figure out a way to make a career out of the restaurant industry.” By 27, Johan was ready to turn his dream into reality. Despite lacking formal education in restaurant management, he opened Fig Tree Cafe in Pacific Beach. With limited funds and a rundown property, Johan took on much of the renovation work himself. “I built the patio myself. I built a lot of stuff myself and I say this in a good way, if I knew then what I know now, I may not have done it because I recognize now, how difficult it is and how it’s almost good to be naïve.” The early years were challenging, but his determination kept him going, even when faced with financial struggles and advice to close the restaurant. “My friends were telling me they noticed I was, maybe ‘deteriorating’ is a strong word, but they saw I wasn’t sleeping and working non-stop. They said, ‘Look, nobody’s going to blame you. It’s a recession, there are so many factors—just close the restaurant and stop killing yourself.’ But for me, it wasn’t just about closing the restaurant. It would have been symbolic, like closing the door on a dream, which meant so much more to me.” His resilience eventually paid off, and Fig Tree Cafe began to make money three years later.   Fig Tree Cafe in Pacific Beach Why Breakfast? Johan’s passion for breakfast wasn’t the reason behind his choice to specialize in this meal. Instead, it was a strategic decision driven by market observation. He noted that while there were numerous elevated dinner restaurants and casual breakfast spots, elevated breakfast spots were scarce. “Restaurants were seeing this emphasis on design and chef-driven menus, but at breakfast spots, it was the same booth, the same plates, the same salt and pepper shakers, the same everything.” Recognizing a niche market, Johan aimed to offer a unique dining experience that combined high-quality design with gourmet breakfast options. His initial strategy was to capitalize on this gap, focusing on providing an elevated breakfast experience that differed from the conventional diner fare. Exterior of Breakfast Republic – North Park Starting in North Park & Seeing North Park Grow Johan’s decision to open his first Breakfast Republic location in North Park was influenced by his belief in the neighborhood’s potential and his limitations at the time. Having lived in North Park on and off since his teenage years, Johan witnessed the area’s transformation firsthand. Despite initial skepticism from some people about the neighborhood’s potential, Johan saw an opportunity, “I did see North Park going in the right direction and besides ‘The Mission’ there was really not too many breakfast options.” He chose North Park because he believed in its future and recognized a lack of breakfast options at the time. The area’s growth and potential made it an ideal location for his venture. Witnessing North Park’s evolution from a risky area to a vibrant urban neighborhood has been a rewarding experience for Johan. He reflects on the excitement of seeing the area thrive and the positive impact of his business on the community, “As somebody who lived here from 1998, it’s cool to see how North Park has become this energetic, urban neighborhood.” Advice to Aspiring Restaurateurs Johan’s advice for aspiring restaurateurs is rooted in his own experiences. He emphasizes the importance of having a deep-seated passion and belief in oneself. “You have to have this undeniable burning desire and belief in yourself because if you don’t nobody else will.” The journey is often fraught with challenges and setbacks, and resilience is key. Johan suggests that prospective business owners should be prepared for unexpected expenses and hurdles, advising them to budget generously and be ready to adapt. “Whatever budget you have, you need to triple it. You may laugh, but there will be delays and curveballs.” One notable lesson Johan learned was the importance of treating employees with respect and supporting their ambitions. “When I gave my notice at my last job and told him I was leaving to pursue my own path, he got upset, as if I was betraying him by leaving the job. That reaction stood out to me because I found it very naive. I often talk to my employees about how I will support you in pursuing your dreams and ambitions.” Johan’s philosophy is to encourage and support his employees’ goals, offering guidance and even potential investment opportunities. The Future of Rise & Shine Looking ahead, Johan is focused on expanding his portfolio with ventures like Ox Coffee, a coffee shop with vertical integration into coffee roasting, and Sunnyside Accounting, a firm specializing in hospitality accounting. His future plans include opening restaurants out of state, potentially in Texas, and continuing to grow his business empire. Though Johan has considered international expansion, he acknowledges the complexities involved and prefers to focus on domestic growth. The next few years will see Rise & Shine expanding its footprint, with a focus on building a strong team and exploring new opportunities. Johan attributes much of his success to the support of key individuals in his life, including his life partner Yasmin, and Rise & Shine CFO Sarah King. Their contributions have been instrumental in his journey, highlighting the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive and capable people. In closing, Johan’s story illustrates the blend of strategic thinking, personal passion, and resilience required to succeed in the competitive restaurant industry. His journey from a single breakfast spot to a growing business empire serves as an inspiring example for aspiring entrepreneurs. --- ## FC Balboa First Team Embarks on US Open Cup Qualifier Second Round, Honoring the Legacy of Jean Kuczka URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/fc-balboa-first-team-embarks-on-us-open-cup-qualifier-second-round-honoring-the-legacy-of-jean-kuczka/ San Diego, California – October 24, 2024 FC Balboa’s Men’s First Team is set to face Chula Vista FC in a pivotal US Open Cup Qualifier Second Round match this Sunday, October 27th, at 6:30 PM at Logan Memorial Educational Campus. While the match signifies a crucial competition, it also underscores the club’s deep-rooted commitment to nurturing young footballers and upholding the values championed by the late Jean Kuczka, an educator renowned for her dedication to respect, as echoed in her words, “Before you are anything else, you are a human. And every human deserves respect.”   Family Photo taken in December 2019 outside Belching Beaver in North Park. (From left to right, Jean Kuczka, Steve Kuczka Sr., Steve Kuczka Jr., Joseph Kuczka, Abbey Kuczka)   Steve Kuczka, assistant coach, goal player, and team manager, honors his mother Jean Kuczka’s enduring legacy through his dedicated work with FC Balboa. Much like Jean, who was a national champion collegiate field hockey goalie renowned for her stoicism and teamwork, Steve is a committed advocate for youth education and development. Today marks the second anniversary of Jean Kuczka’s passing. She was posthumously awarded the Citizens Honor Single Act of Heroism from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society for her bravery on October 24, 2022, when she sacrificed herself to shield and protect her students from an armed intruder at Central Visual and Performing Arts High School in St. Louis, Missouri. Over her 38-year career, Jean inspired future generations with a love of learning and respect, embodying her belief that “every child is a unique human being and deserves a chance to learn.” In tribute to her influence, the First Team will soon wear a commemorative patch displaying “61”—for her birth year and years lived—emblazoned with the message “EVERYONE DESERVES RESPECT.”    Respect Patch designed by Steven Rankin in honor of Jean Kuczka   Jean’s life was marked by selfless dedication, extending beyond her teaching and coaching career as she actively supported, cycled, and fundraised to help find a cure for Type 1 Diabetes, with her younger son Joe having the condition. As a devoted mother of five, her mission of service and support now lives on through the Jean Kuczka Foundation, continuing to leave a profound community impact on countless lives.   August 2021 Pacific Beach, Steve Kuczka with his Dad and Mom   Head Coach Duda Coelho and Assistant Coach Steve Kuczka lead the First Team with a shared vision of growth, respect, and education. Their efforts extend beyond the team; they play integral roles in the club’s long-term Football Development and Coach Education. This dedication was recently recognized with two coach grants from Up2Us, enhancing their ability to further the club’s mission.   Football Development Meeting with SDFC at the Granada House in North Park (from left to right, Duda Coelho, Steve Kuczka, Mario Fernandez, and Chhem Young-Pen)   Featuring seven players under 18, the First Team exemplifies FC Balboa’s commitment to nurturing young footballers and ensuring a clear path to adult football. The players embody the club’s high standards of behavior through their participation.   First Team Photo from September 2024 at Grossmont High School before a Fall ’24 UPSL match   FC Balboa is more than a club; it is a community dedicated to excellence and inclusivity. Participating in the US Open Cup is a significant milestone, and community support is essential for its continuation and the perpetuation of Jean’s legacy. The club envisions a sustainable, no-pay-to-play model for the First Team and seeks community donations and sponsorships to realize its goals.   To support the First Team contribute by DONATING NOW; please specify “First Team” in the donation notes.  For sponsorship opportunities, or to contact the First Team directly, please email FirstTeamMen@fcbalboa.org.     Join FC Balboa in celebrating this significant milestone and support the team this Sunday, October 27th, at 6:30 PM as they compete against Chula Vista FC in the US Open Cup Qualifier Second Round at Logan Memorial Educational Campus.   Please check out the intentions on the First team page. --- ## Director’s Digest: October URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/directors-digest-october/ A Big Thank You for a Successful Taste of North Park! As we reflect on the resounding success of this year’s Taste of North Park, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to everyone who participated and supported this event. Over 1,200 people joined us to taste and sip their way through our vibrant neighborhood, making this one of our most successful years yet! This year, we implemented a few key changes, including four check-in locations at the corners of our district. This not only helped reduce wait times but also gave a boost to businesses that may not typically experience high foot traffic. It was an effective way to showcase the incredible variety of restaurants, breweries, and shops North Park has to offer. It truly felt like a celebration of the local flavors and unique energy that make our community so special. A special thank you to Carly Ealey (@carlyealey) and Chris Konecki (@konecki_art) for their stunning Padres mural, which brought a wave of SD pride to Taste of North Park. Their incredible artwork added to the electric atmosphere, and it was a joy to see so many attendees drawn in by their vibrant, creative energy. Their contributions truly elevated the day, and we are grateful for their partnership. A big thank you to all the businesses that participated and made this event shine! Your dedication and creativity were on full display, and the feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive. We were also excited to partner with MTS this year to provide free bus tickets, making it easier for people to get around the neighborhood. Encouraging public transit use is an important step as North Park continues to grow, and we’re thrilled to be part of that change. Looking Ahead: Taste 2025 and Future Events We’re already thinking about how to make next year’s Taste of North Park even better! One thing we’re currently evaluating is the timing. October has become a busy month for events in San Diego, so we’re exploring new dates that will allow us to stand out even more. Stay tuned for updates! If you’re interested in being part of our future events, I encourage you to join our Economic Development Committee meetings, held on the 4th Tuesday of each month at 11 AM. This is where we brainstorm ideas and plan the details that make events like Taste a reality. Can’t make it? Reach out to us directly—we’d love to hear your ideas and explore other ways for you to get involved. Shop Local: November 30th Next on our calendar is Shop Local, also known as Small Business Saturday, on November 30th. We’ll be organizing live art and music performances, promoting our business district, and working to attract holiday shoppers to North Park. It’s the perfect opportunity for residents and visitors alike to spend a day eating, shopping, and exploring everything our neighborhood has to offer. Stay Tuned for Our Annual Report Finally, keep an eye out for our Annual Report, which will highlight the programs and activities we worked on in fiscal year 2024. It’s a comprehensive look at how we’re supporting the businesses and community members that make North Park such a wonderful place to live and work. Thank you all again for your continued support. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events and committee meetings! Sincerely, Mark WestExecutive Director, North Park Main Street --- ## Director’s Digest: September URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/directors-digest-september/ As we move into September, I’m thrilled to share some exciting updates that highlight the vibrant energy and collective spirit driving North Park forward. Our community continues to thrive, and the upcoming events and recent developments are perfect examples of how collaboration and participation can elevate North Park to new heights. North Park Putt-Oberfest: A Swinging Success Mark your calendars for September 26th, when we will host the 1st Annual North Park Putt-Oberfest! I bet you didn’t know that Oktoberfest is actually starts in September in Bavaria; embrace the tradition and get your tickets todayv!  This inaugural event is a fun way for people to Explore North Park! This event promises to be a fun one and we are grateful for the support of the participating locations and Clean Air California (CAC). This event is a great reminder that you can choose to explore foot which will give you an opportunity to visit new places you might have missed and reduce your emissions at the same time! Early bird ends September 12th so get your tickets soon! Taste of North Park: Showcasing Culinary Excellence On October 5th, we’ll once again shine a spotlight on North Park’s culinary scene with the annual Taste of North Park. This event has been pivotal in establishing North Park as a premier dining destination in San Diego. What makes it truly special is the collective effort of our entire community. When we all come together—chefs, restaurateurs, business owners, and residents alike—we can showcase the very best of what North Park has to offer. This event isn’t just about great food; it’s about highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines our neighborhood. As the saying goes, a rising tide lifts all boats and the tide is certainly rising. We are appreciative of our business community opening their doors so people can get a Taste of what they offer! Get your tickets today! New Developments and Recognition North Park continues to capture attention both locally and nationally, further solidifying our reputation as a vibrant and unique community. We’re excited to welcome Drew Deckman’s 3131 to our neighborhood, bringing a new wave of culinary excellence to University Avenue. Additionally, Leila from CH has become a standout in the local dining scene, offering a fresh and innovative experience that complements our diverse culinary landscape. Our community’s charm hasn’t gone unnoticed—North Park was recently recognized and featured in Westways and Travel magazine. These outlets highlighted our neighborhood’s eclectic mix of arts, culture, and cuisine, attracting even more visitors to explore what we have to offer. They put us in the top 16 most up and coming neighborhoods in America! A Positive Trajectory for North Park With new additions and upcoming projects, North Park is on an exciting upward trajectory. The continued success of local businesses point to a bright future for our community. The positive outlook is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in making North Park a place where creativity, culture, and community come together. By continuing to support one another and participating in community events, we ensure that North Park remains a vibrant and welcoming place for all. The momentum we’ve built together is not just sustaining us but propelling us toward even greater success. Maintenance Update: For over eight months months, our North Park Maintenance App has been a game-changer. This tool has significantly improved our crews’ response times and has provided business and property owners with an easy way to communicate their non-emergent needs. The data collected from the app allows us to prioritize our limited resources effectively to serve our community better. We encourage everyone to download and use the North Park Maintenance App whenever you are within the North Park Special Enhancement District!     --- ## Cargo Bikes & Vegan Delights: A Day of Eco-Friendly Fun in North Park URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/cargo-bikes-vegan-delights-a-day-of-eco-friendly-fun-in-north-park/ (San Diego, Calif. – August 1, 2024) – Bike enthusiasts and foodies will converge on North Park next Saturday, August 10th, for a day of learning and community building plus plant-based food at the Cargo Bike Challenge Course & Resilience Fair from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and the North Park Vegan Market from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., at the North Park Mini Park, located at 3812 29th St, San Diego, 92104. The Cargo Bike Challenge Course & Resilience Fair, presented by Ebike Cargo & Velocker, will feature a disaster relief trials-style bike course, a bike demo zone, engaging bike-related activities for adults and kids throughout the day, as well as the opportunity to learn essential skills for surviving disasters and assisting others during a crisis. “This event will demonstrate how cargo bikes can serve as a crucial tool in disaster scenarios where traditional infrastructure may fail,” said Brian Hoffman, organizer of the Cargo Bike Challenge Course & Resilience Fair. “It is part of a broader movement that began in Portland in 2012 and has since spread to dozens of cities worldwide, building a community of prepared and trained citizens ready to assist in times of need.” The cargo bike challenge course, which starts at 9:00 a.m. and requires pre-registration, is designed to simulate potential emergency scenarios following a disaster. Riders’ scores will be based on the amount of cargo they can transport as well as the time it takes them to complete the 14-mile course. In the Demo Zone, local bike shops and manufacturers will showcase different styles of cargo bikes, e-bikes, and the latest bike accessories. Relief organizations, including the Red Cross and the San Diego Mountain Rescue Team, will present sessions on bicycle mobility, logistics, and emergency response. The North Park Vegan Market, presented by Vegan Food Popup Events on the 2nd Saturday of every month, will have vendors set up next to the Mini Park, on 29th St and both sides of North Park Way between 30th St and Granada Ave, with a large selection of eats and treats, as well as local products and services from over 60 businesses. The event features a rotating lineup of diverse vendors from San Diego, Orange County and LA., offering an international assortment of food and beverages, including options from African, Chinese, Mexican, Argentinian, Egyptian, Italian, Mozambican, Korean, and Pacific Islander cuisines. In between bites, attendees can shop award-winning hot sauces, all-natural skincare, eco-friendly home decor, unique jewelry, and more. Additional information about the North Park Vegan Market, including a complete list of vendors, is available at https://northparkveganmarket.eventbrite.com For more information about the Cargo Bike Challenge Course & Resilience Fair, please visit https://drtsocal.com About Vegan Food Popup Events Since launching in 2019, Vegan Food Popup Events has supported hundreds of local food and craft vendors by providing opportunities in San Diego and Orange County for them to share their offerings with the community. More information is available at https://veganfoodpopup.com --- ## Brewing Success: Arne Holt and the Rise of Caffe Calabria URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/brewing-success-arne-holt-and-the-rise-of-cafe-calabria/ North Park’s vibrant community is enriched by the stories of passionate individuals and unique businesses that define its character. One such cornerstone is Caffe Calabria, founded by Arne Holt. In this month’s spotlight, we delve into Arne’s journey, his love for coffee, and the pivotal role Caffe Calabria has played in transforming North Park. Although he might describe himself as cantankerous, his impact on our business community is undeniable.   The Origins of Caffe Calabria   Arne, born and raised in Seattle, frequently visited family in San Diego. A transformative experience during one of these visits set him on the path to founding Caffe Calabria. Reflecting on his initial move to San Diego, Arne shared, “I left Seattle at six in the morning in freezing rain, and by the time I arrived in San Diego for my grandmother’s services, it was 80 degrees with Santa Ana winds blowing. I was hooked.” His newfound love for San Diego, combined with the absence of a coffee culture, sparked his entrepreneurial spirit.     “In 1991, lattes were primarily a Seattle and Portland phenomenon. Down here, there was no coffee culture. I rode around downtown and couldn’t find a single place for a latte. Starbucks hadn’t even opened down here yet. That’s when I decided to move and open an espresso cart,” Arne recalled. The first iteration of Caffe Calabria was a humble espresso cart at Grossmont Hospital, which remains operational today, run by Arne’s sister. This marked the beginning of Arne’s coffee journey, which eventually expanded to multiple locations and a significant wholesale operation.   The Evolution of Coffee Artistry   Arne’s passion for coffee goes beyond merely serving it; he views it as a culinary art approached with a scientific mindset. His frequent travels to Europe, particularly Italy, heavily influenced the style and atmosphere of Caffe Calabria. “I’ve been to Europe 80 times in 19 years. On one of my early trips to Italy, I realized I had done everything wrong in terms of design and layout for our shop. Over the years, I started incorporating those Italian influences to give Caffe Calabria a more authentic vibe,” Arne explained.     Arne’s dedication to perfecting his craft is evident in his approach to roasting coffee. He acknowledges the challenges he faced initially, “We really struggled with roasting coffee early on. But with guidance from a good friend and experienced roaster from Seattle, we honed our skills. After that, our wholesale customers went crazy. I’d be roasting and taking orders at 10 p.m. on a Sunday and then out to deliver at 9 a.m. the next day.” Arne’s meticulous attention to detail in the roasting process highlights his commitment to excellence. “There’s a mathematical equation to roasting coffee and preparing espresso. Our espresso is second to none because of the precision we put into it.” However, he will be the first to admit that developing his mastery wasn’t a linear progression, “I’m a person who needs to be hit over the head with a hammer three or four—maybe five—times before I get it. It’s… an evolution of craft, I guess.” Listening to Arne talk about his craft makes you crave an espresso to experience their “full city roast, which gets a lot of chocolate notes out there, as much as possible.”   Impact on North Park and Beyond   Caffe Calabria is more than just a coffee shop; it’s an integral part of the North Park community. When Arne and his sister purchased their current building, North Park was a far cry from its present-day vibrancy. “North Park was in pretty bad shape commercially. But I had a feeling about the neighborhood. It took longer than I thought, but good things take time,” Arne noted.   Arne’s vision and commitment helped catalyze North Park’s transformation. “We were one of the first new businesses here, alongside Claire’s and The Mission. It was a high-tide-raises-all-boats situation. Everyone helped each other out, and it was a fun time watching the neighborhood progress,” Arne reminisced. Caffe Calabria’s involvement in community events, such as hosting the first World Cup party on 30th Street, underscores its dedication to fostering a sense of community.   Looking back, Arne is proud of the role Caffe Calabria has played in North Park’s evolution. “I’m proud of being part of the domino effect of what North Park has become,” he said. When asked what created the collective energy of North Park, Arne highlights “the really great soul” of all the people starting businesses. “Every place you walked into, the owner was in there working, which was uncommon at that time.”     It’s that soul that has attracted amazing, talented people to this community over the years. As Arne contemplates the future, he is ready to pass the torch. “I’ve been doing this for 33 years. I’m ready to bow out and do something in southern Italy, perhaps in the art world.” However, he won’t be away forever. “I can’t wait to come back in a couple of years and see what has transpired. A lot’s changed since 2021, so who knows what will happen. Our block alone is booming. Arsalun is opening up Lelia, Brad Wise is opening up on the corner, Lara has done such a phenomenal job with Bivouac Adventure Lodge, and Saigon Coffee’s banging it up. That’s just our block, you know? They’re quality places with quality people being attracted here, and it’s great to see that.”   So, the next time you’re in North Park, take the time to enjoy the empire Arne has built by ordering an espresso (and maybe a slice of their Neapolitan pizza), taking it outside to their parklet, and observing the soul of North Park.   --- ## Director’s Digest: July URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/directors-digest-july/ As we continue to navigate the dynamic landscape of our beloved North Park district, I am pleased to share several important updates that reflect our ongoing commitment to enhancing our community. Maintenance Update: For over six months, our North Park Maintenance App has been a game-changer. This tool has significantly improved our crews’ response times and has provided business and property owners with an easy way to communicate their non-emergent needs. The data collected from the app allows us to prioritize our limited resources effectively to serve our community better. We encourage everyone to download and use the North Park Maintenance App whenever you are within the North Park Special Enhancement District. One of the notable changes we’ve implemented, based on app data, is the adjustment of our maintenance personnel hours to include evening coverage during busy weekends. This extended coverage ensures quicker response times during high traffic periods, benefiting both businesses and property owners. ​ Summer Pressure Washing: As summer heats up, NPMS is back to a full pressure washing schedule to maintain the cleanliness of our district. The increased heat exacerbates certain issues, making it crucial to provide an enhanced level of service to our public right of way. Our goal is to ensure a clean and welcoming environment for all who visit North Park. Mental Health America Training: Like many commercial districts in San Diego, North Park has seen an increase in interactions with mentally ill individuals. These interactions can be challenging and stressful for business staff and the wider community. In response, NPMS is organizing a Mental Health First Aid training in collaboration with Mental Health America. This training aims to equip businesses with the skills to handle such interactions more effectively. If you are interested in participating, please reach out to us. We will also provide notice to our community when the training date and agenda are finalized. Community Shuttle Program and Mobility Committee: North Park Main Street, in partnership with City Heights CDC, has been working diligently on a community shuttle program. I am excited to announce that we have secured a $1.5 million grant to launch a micro-mobility pilot program serving our community. We are in the final stages of completing the legal requirements to get this program underway, and the anticipation is palpable. To support this initiative, NPMS is launching a Mobility Committee dedicated to leading community engagement and planning for projects like these. The committee will focus on four main pillars: Walking, Biking, Riding, and Parking. Our goal is to use this program to communicate our district’s needs to the City, North Park Planning Committee, and Mid City Parking District, and to activate our partners to bring about sustainable change. If this sounds interesting to you, we invite you to join us for our mobility meetings on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 1 pm. You can sign up for the agenda here. Thank you for your continued support and engagement. Together, we are making North Park a vibrant and thriving community. --- ## A Decade of Deliciousness: Gerry and the Journey of City Tacos URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/a-decade-of-deliciousness-gerry-and-the-journey-of-city-tacos/ As City Tacos in North Park celebrates its remarkable ten-year milestone, it’s more than just a momentous occasion for its founder, Gerry Torres; it’s a reflection of passion, perseverance, and the vibrant community that embraced his culinary vision. In a candid conversation with Gerry, we delve into his journey from a single neighborhood eatery to the bustling network of eight City Tacos locations. Gerry’s story is not just about business expansion; it’s about staying true to one’s roots, fostering community, and constantly striving for excellence. Roots of Passion Gerry embodies the essence of living in the moment, driven by an amazing work ethic and a deep love for both family and food. “I love my employees. I love what I do. I do it with passion every day,” Gerry remarks, encapsulating his approach to life and business. With a background deeply rooted in the restaurant industry, Gerry’s journey to launch City Tacos was always something he dreamed of but never imagined that it would play out like this. His journey took him back and forth between Mexico City and San Diego. His first dip into the industry was at a sub shop in Oceanside, where at 16, he became the youngest manager in the company’s history but couldn’t use the meat slicer because you needed to be 18. From there, he continued to work and refine his craft and experience in every role you could imagine at a restaurant. Eventually that experience led to his first ownership role, where he partnered with an old school Italian on a restaurant named Tiramisu Trattoria. “He taught me the ins and outs and I used that to propel me on the next phase of my life, which turned out to be City Tacos.”  Those lessons proved to be instrumental as Gerry looked to bring his own ideas into reality. The Birth of City Tacos The transition from the owner of a Trattoria to a Taqueria was not a cakewalk, “I had $150,000, and I had to make it a success. I had to find a way for it to work because my family depended on it.” Settling on North Park as the flagship location, Gerry was drawn to invest here because of the vibrant community and its burgeoning craft beer and nightlife scene—a perfect canvas for his culinary innovation. The inception of City Tacos was not just about serving tacos; it was about redefining Mexican cuisine and creating a unique culinary experience. “I wanted to show the larger public that there was more to Mexican food than what was being presented,” Gerry explains, “at that time, most shops used the exact same ingredients, and the product was either in burrito, tostada, or taco form. In the end, the flavor profile was the same wherever you went.”  With a French-trained chef by his side, City Tacos introduced an international flair to traditional Mexican dishes, setting itself apart from the sea of taco shops with its bold flavors and innovative approach. A Recipe for Success The early days of City Tacos were a whirlwind of hard work and dedication. Gerry recalls working tirelessly, sometimes up to 18 hours a day, to ensure the success of his fledgling venture. However, the overwhelming response from the community affirmed his vision, with lines out the door and sold-out days becoming the norm. “When we first opened, we sold out every week. We would go back and produce double the amount the next day and continue to sell out. It was crazy and amazing! I love the fact that we were so well received, and people felt comfortable within our space.” As City Tacos expanded, Gerry remained committed to maintaining the essence of the brand while embracing growth and evolution. While his role within City Tacos continues to evolve, you can rest assured that Gerry is behind the scenes, tightening the bolts and working to make the City Taco experience better every day. His devotion, passion, and respect for the industry are perfectly exemplified by his core team of dedicated employees, most of whom have been with him since the beginning. Gerry ensured that each City Tacos location retained the same level of quality, service, and community engagement by investing in his people. “I’m truly blessed with a great team. Most of my team from 10 years ago is still here. Our very first employee we hired, Sandra, still works at our North Park location 10 years later!” Weathering the Storms City Tacos’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges, particularly navigating the uncertainties brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, amidst adversity, Gerry and his team found innovative ways to support their community, from providing free meals to fostering a sense of togetherness during trying times. “Every day is a surprise. Every day is a blessing,” Gerry reflects, emphasizing the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in the ever-changing landscape of the restaurant industry. “The amount of traffic in North Park has been diminished by the pandemic, but I see a resurgence happening. You see all these new people coming in to invest in our community, like Brad Wise and Drew Deckman. North Park is becoming more of a culinary mecca for San Diego and its incredibly awesome.” Gerry was also quick to point out the success of North Park runs farther back than the pandemic bust then boom, it is all about the friendships and relationships which have helped foster our community. “Arnie, from Café Calabria is one of the pioneers. I respect his friendship and what he has done for this neighborhood.” Looking Ahead As City Tacos celebrates its remarkable ten-year anniversary, Gerry’s vision for the future remains as vibrant as ever. With plans for further expansion along the California coastline, Gerry is committed to elevating the City Tacos experience while staying true to the values that have defined the brand from day one. For Gerry Torres, City Tacos is more than just a business; it’s a testament to the power of passion, community, and unwavering dedication. As he continues to write the next chapter of his culinary journey, one thing remains certain—City Tacos will continue to delight taste buds and nourish souls for years to come. --- ## Director’s Digest: May URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/directors-digest-may/ As we step into the vibrant month of May, I’m thrilled to share some exciting updates and initiatives happening within our community. From celebrating the diverse tapestry of music to advancing micro-mobility transit projects and advocating for small business support, North Park Main Street is committed to fostering growth and prosperity for all. North Park Music Festival: Music Beyond Borders Save the date for the North Park Music Festival happening on Friday, May 31st, and Saturday, June 1st. This year’s theme, “Music Beyond Borders,” embodies the spirit of unity and diversity as we showcase over 40 musical acts representing the creative richness of California and Baja California. Prepare to be mesmerized by headlining talents including Fantastic Negrito, Louis XIV, Particle Kid, Ty Segall, Jackie Mendoza, and Parque De Cometas. From emerging artists to established names, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Immerse yourself in art installations, savor delectable cuisine from local vendors, and sip on refreshing beverages from our local brewers. Let’s come together to celebrate the cultural mosaic of our community. Secure your tickets now at northparkmusicfest.org and join us for an unforgettable experience. Buy Passes Mid-City Community Shuttle: A Step Towards Enhanced Mobility I’m pleased to announce tangible progress on the execution of the grant to fund the Mid City Community Shuttle project. While this is just the beginning of addressing our transit challenges, it’s a significant step towards enhancing mobility within North Park and City Heights. This initiative will introduce three electrical shuttles servicing a section of Mid-City, with plans to expand in the future. The launch is slated for the summer of 2024, and we look forward to its positive impact on our community’s accessibility and connectivity. Stay tuned as we get this program running. NPMS will be launching a Transportation Committee to provide oversight on the program and to drive community engagement and outreach. Advocating for Small Business Support As the City navigates its budget cycle, it’s crucial to remember the significance of supporting our small businesses. In the words of Barack Obama, “A budget is more than just a series of numbers on a page; it is an embodiment of our values.” While we appreciate the city’s leadership and the funding allocated for crucial initiatives, we are disheartened by the lack of investment in the Small Business Enhancement Funding. Fully funding efforts to directly support our small businesses is imperative for our community’s vitality and resilience. Business District budgets across the city will be affected by the combo of reduction in financial support and rise in administration workload. Every year it gets tougher for our districts to meet the expectations of our community and elected officials, as the stable support to provide programming is whittled down. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, comprising 98 percent of San Diego firms and employing 60 percent of San Diegans. It’s essential that we advocate for their support to ensure their continued success and contribution to our city’s prosperity. If you are interested in helping advocate for a better funded SBEP, please contact North Park Main Street. We can help provide a path for advocacy and are always interested in connecting with like minded partners. As we move forward, let’s continue to champion initiatives that uplift and empower our community. Together, we can create a thriving environment where businesses and residents alike can flourish. --- ## May Promotions – Explore North Park URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/got-promotions-share-it-with-us/ As the busy season approaches, we’re gearing up to ensure that your promotions reach our North Park community. Kindly take a moment to complete the form below, detailing any upcoming promotions you plan to roll out. Given the seasonal rush, please focus on holidays/events specifically listed on the form. For inquiries, please contact A7D at hellosocial@a-7-d.com.    --- ## North Park Artist Wins Best of Theme Award URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/north-park-artist-wins-best-of-theme-award/ Nick Torzeski, an artist and resident of North Park, San Diego, California, won the Best of Theme award in the San Diego Watercolor Society (SDWS) April Member’s exhibition “Optional Paths”, an in-gallery show of the SDWS at 2825 Dewey Road in Liberty Station, San Diego, CA. Torzeski’s painting titled “Planetary Vision” was selected by prominent local artist and juror Linda Doll for this honor out of over 260 entries. Doll commented “This is a definite “optional path,” and I loved it from the minute I saw it. The balls are all sitting still but I feel movement going through the piece. I love the scale: there are large, small, and tiny little pieces. The light going across the piece goes from warm to warm and cool to cool. I enjoy the way the circles incorporate the whole range of colors. Very creative piece.” Nick has some college experience and he attended a few sculpting classes in college, but has not been formally trained in making art. Visits to galleries in LA and New York as well as art museums all over the United States and other countries, and growing up with his father Ski Torzeski, a well-known San Diego artist, have provided him with a lot of inspiration. He learned important watercolor techniques from his father, uses them currently in his work, and has added figurative elements and other techniques/ mediums to create a style of his own. He wants people to feel transported to another world or dimension when viewing his work. He also aims to create work that is distinctly his own and represents his desired aesthetic and interests. At 27 years old, Nick has been painting with watercolor for only a few years. In the future, he intends to settle down and focus on making art full-time. You can see more of his work on Instagram at his public account “nick_torzeski”. The SDWS Gallery Exhibit will run through Saturday, April 27, 2024 at the SDWS gallery at 2528 Dewey Road in Liberty Station, and is free to the public Paintings can be viewed and purchased directly from the gallery, and are also available to view and purchase on the SDWS website at https://www.sdws.org/galleryart.php?cat=7043&s=0   ABOUT SAN DIEGO WATERCOLOR SOCIETY The San Diego Watercolor Society, a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization founded in 1965, is dedicated to expanding the appreciation of and involvement in watermedia painting through education, exhibition and promotion. More information can be found at http://www.sdws.org “Planetary Vision” by Nick Torzeski Watercolor 20 x 16 inches   Image courtesy of San Diego Watercolor Society CONTACT INFORMATION –Carla Scheidlinger, cscheidlinger@gmail.com --- ## NP Businesses Join the FREE Runner Perks Program for Rock ‘N’ Roll San Diego URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/np-businesses-join-the-free-runner-perks-program-for-rock-n-roll-san-diego/ PROGRAM OVERVIEW: You’re invited to participate for FREE in the 2024 Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series San Diego Runner Perks program. You create a unique offer or discount, and we encourage participants to visit your business during race week. This is our 26th year running in San Diego, and the program is our way to celebrate the community and promote local businesses each year.   RACE WEEKEND SCHEDULE: Health & Fitness Expo | Friday, May 31 – Saturday June 1 Rock ‘n’ Roll San Diego 5K | Saturday, June 1 Rock ‘n’ Roll San Diego Marathon and Half Marathon | Sunday, June 2   HOW TO PARTICIPATE: Create a simple offer or discount just for runners, race volunteers and expo exhibitors! Send the following information to Morgan Okerlund Hathaway at morgan.okerlund@ironman.com. Business Name Logo Address, Phone, Website and/or Email Discount/offer details & dates discount applies Please keep to 40 words or less. Ex: “Let’s kick start your Race Weekend with 10% off coffee drinks and 20% off merchandise at Humphreys Street Coffee from June 1-2.”   Next Steps: FREE Inclusion in the Runner Perks Section of the Website: We add your offer to our website, social media, and email a direct link to our participants before the race. Activate Your Offer on Race Week: During race week, get ready to award your offer to customers when they are (1) a participant who shows their registration confirmation email, race bib, or medal or (2) a volunteer who shows their volunteer shirt.   DEADLINE TO SUBMIT YOUR SPECIAL DEAL IS MAY 10, 2024!   Please e-mail morgan.okerlund@ironman.com to be part of the official Runner Perks, if you have questions, or if you want to find ways to further promote your business through our event.   --- ## Black Radish: Building Community Through Culinary Creativity URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/black-radish-building-community-through-culinary-creativity/ North Park, San Diego, is a vibrant neighborhood with diverse businesses and a strong sense of community. Among the myriad establishments dotting its streets, Black Radish stands out not just for its chef-driven culinary delights but also for the passionate duo behind its success—Chef Itze and her husband, architect John. Their journey to North Park and the evolution of Black Radish reflect their commitment to creativity, resilience, and community building. Choosing North Park as the location for their restaurant was a challenging decision for Chef Itze. When faced with the choice between the bustling streets of Little Italy and the more intimate atmosphere of North Park, they listened to the advice of Chef Deborah from the Cohen group, “If you want to build community, I would choose North Park.” John recalls how the North Park location best fits their initial concept for this project, “We had visions of being in a very industrial area, where at night we would be this one little bright light. That was impractical, but when we saw Tobacco Rhoada’s space, it fit our vision closely enough. You have to remember North Park was different back then, too. The San Diego Reader called Rhoadas the worst bar in San Diego and not the good worst like some dive bars. But we loved everything about this corner. It’s close but not in the middle; it’s slightly remote and still a destination.” Their decision to choose North Park laid the foundation for Black Radish, a culinary beacon in the neighborhood. That beacon was built and perfected by Chef Itze and John, who complement each other perfectly by bringing a balance of creativity and structure to their endeavors. Chef Itze describes herself as emotionally driven and thriving on creativity, while John approaches life with rationality and structure, drawing parallels between architecture and culinary arts. Their partnership transcends the kitchen, intertwining their strengths to create a harmonious blend of flavors and ideas at Black Radish. It took them time to find that balance as they navigated life. The Journey It was a long journey for the duo to reach the level of success this partnership has achieved. Chef Itze’s journey into the culinary world wasn’t a given. Growing up in Tijuana at the time, her family did not fully understand the concept of being a professional chef. “I did love cooking, but I don’t know that we ever thought of culinary school as an option,” Chef Itze recalls, “I do remember talking to my mom about it, and her response was ‘What is that, are you going to be selling tacos on the street?'” That was not her goal, and eventually, her love for cooking led her into a professional kitchen, where she got her first official start through a co-ownership opportunity at a restaurant. The beginning of her professional culinary journey was far from smooth for Chef Itze. She recalls needing to repeatedly demonstrate her abilities to earn the respect of her male colleagues. “When I started, all the guys in the restaurant were taking bets on how long I’d last. One day, a week, two… and even though they knew I was part owner, they would give me the hardest jobs, like peeling buckets and buckets of shrimp. There were so many times I wanted to say no, but I knew I was going to do this. I knew I wanted to do this, so I went through everything they gave me until I was accepted. Soon, I was leading the line during busy nights, coming up with the specials of the day, cooking it all out, and changing the menu.” Even through the sexist scrutiny & heavy workload, Chef Itze found peace in the chaos of the kitchen. “I remember thinking, ‘I love everything about this.’ The sounds of the kitchen, the sounds of cooking, and even all the hectic parts of it are fun. When we were all done, I loved that tiredness you’d get. It’s a satisfying tiredness that gives you satisfaction.”  Her passion and dedication enabled her to overcome the numerous challenges that female chefs often face. Chef Itze had to face them again as she started her family. “Our first restaurant sold, and I knew I wouldn’t be working when I had kids, so I stepped out of the culinary scene for 13 years. During that time, I did some catering and traveling, but mostly I studied. I would grab books, like Thomas Keller’s French Laundry (Chef Itze highly recommends this book for aspiring chefs), invite a group of friends over, and cook the recipes to the “T.” Throughout my time away, I knew it was going to be tough to come back, and I knew I couldn’t come back with the same knowledge and experience I had in the 90s.” When Chef Itze made her return, she faced many of the same challenges because she was a female, but now she also felt more scrutiny because of her age. “From vendors to staff, it was hard. To prove myself, I had to do recipes better, work the line better, and work harder than everyone.” Her advice to aspiring female chefs is simple yet powerful: believe in yourself, be resilient, and support each other in the face of adversity. “We are just as capable as male chefs. Don’t listen to others because if I had listened to them, I would not be here right now.”  After 13 years away from the culinary scene, Chef Itze was brought back into the fold through a collaboration with John. That collaboration is the Tavern at Coronado, and it provided a launching pad for their future success at Black Radish. Chef Itze has put in the work to build her culinary skills. She has faced adversity at different levels and has always found a way to persevere and stay true to herself. Her work and her journey are a testament to the strength found in all women leaders. The Seasons Chef Itze’s fantastic journey in the kitchen has come with many experiences, both good and bad. When asked about what life lessons the kitchen has taught her, she spoke about being present and having the space to connect with your purpose. “I have a mantra of appreciating quietness. In my kitchen, we don’t have a radio booming or a lot of chatter. We are focused. We need that stillness to think about food and what we want to do with it.”    In that stillness, Chef Itze’s culinary prowess shines through, creating dishes that are not just meals but expressions of artistry and passion. Her dedication to her craft is evident in every plate served, with flavors that tantalize the taste buds and leave a lasting impression on patrons. It’s important to note that each dish is an ephemeral experience because the menu changes with the seasons. North Park is in for a turn of the leaf at Black Radish as we enter Spring, and it’s easy to get excited when listening to Chef Itze share her thoughts on the new season. “I am always pushing myself, thinking about what I can do for this new season. Spring is coming. I want fresh things, newness. I am waiting for the morels to come in so I can do something with morels and black cod. There is also this delicious cut of pork called Sagrado, similar to the ribeye cap, that I’ve been reading about, and I found a source for it. I want to go a little Mexican with an adobo or similar rub. That is what direction I think Spring is taking.” The excitement emanates from the Chef as she taps into her creativity for the seasons.    Chef Itze leverages her creativity as the seasons turn to tell new stories and create new experiences. One part of what makes each season unique is the Chef driving the change. Chef Itze is a firm believer in the Chef-Driven movement. “I would love to see more chef-driven restaurants. You (the Chef) are there cooking, paying attention to every detail, checking everything as it goes out.” True to her word, you can watch Chef Itze hard at work crafting plates and managing the service from your table at Black Radish. The second part is the Black Radish community. The Community Beyond crafting exquisite dishes, Chef Itze and John actively build community with their team and patrons. The duo is quick to highlight their front & back house team as a primary reason they’ve achieved their goals. “Because we are only open for dinner and only open Wednesday through Saturday, we operate with just one crew.” Operating with one crew is rare, and it’s even rarer how little turnover they’ve seen. The stability and inclusiveness of this one group have allowed Black Radish to focus on being the best version of itself. Their team truly has the synergy of a family, and Chef Itze underscored how lucky she has been to work with them. Their team cohesion is part of what makes Black Radish a wonderful place to dine. However, their restaurant isn’t just a place to dine; it’s a hub where neighbors gather, friendships form, and memories are made. “We feel very fortunate because the community and the neighborhood have been gracious and generous in bringing people in and wanting it. We have become part of the neighborhood. Now, we have people coming from all over the world & people who come from one or two blocks away. I think that creates community.” Black Radish’s ethos is an ode to many small, refined dining establishments that you can find in New York, San Francisco, or Paris. John remarks, “It’s harder to do little neighborhood restaurants that are sophisticated but don’t need 500 seats. We like being neighborhoo-y.” Through their dedication to quality, creativity, and community, Chef Itze and John have transformed Black Radish into more than just a restaurant; it’s a cornerstone of North Park’s vibrant culinary scene. As Chef Itze and John continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of the restaurant industry, one thing remains constant – their commitment to serving food and experiences that nourish the body and soul. In a world where culinary trends come and go, Black Radish stands as a beacon of authenticity, creativity, and community, a testament to the enduring power of passion and perseverance. --- ## A Global Leader In Culinary Sustainability, Drew Deckman Will Open His First U.S. Restaurant in San Diego URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/a-global-leader-in-cul-inary-sustainability-drew-deckman-will-open-his-first-u-s-restaurant-in-san-diego-ca/   31THIRTYONE’s Cause-Based Concept Will Support Regenerative Farming, Revolutionize Sustainable Food Culture, And Prioritize Sustainable Sourcing at Every Level of The Restaurant’s Operations – Opening May 2024 – SAN DIEGO — Drew Deckman is chef and co-owner of Deckman’s en el Mogor, a zero-kilometer, sustainable restaurant in Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico, which he runs alongside his wife, co-owner Paulina Deckman. The preeminent voice for the country’s ethical farming and slow food culture, Deckman is on a mission to bring principles of environmental sustainability directly to the dining table. The 38-year industry veteran spent more than a decade cooking throughout Europe with masters Paul Bocuse, Jacques Maximin, and mentor Madeleine Kamman. He was honored with a coveted MICHELIN Star for his leadership at Germany’s Restaurant Vitus, and his Baja restaurant, Deckman’s en el Mogor, was named to World’s 50 Best Latin America. Now, more than a decade since opening his eponymous al fresco restaurant in Mexico’s wine region, Deckman is preparing to introduce his first concept to the United States. 31THIRTYONE is expected to open in May 2024 in San Diego, CA within the city’s urban North Park neighborhood at 3131 University Avenue. Deckman’s cause-based concept will revolve around a daily-changing tasting menu with alcoholic and spirits-free beverage pairings. It will donate 1% of monthly revenue to help farmers implement carbon farming projects through various grants in partnership with the international nonprofit Zero Foodprint. “31THIRTYONE is rooted in our commitment to environmental conservation and our desire to preserve the watershed of Southern California and northern Baja region,” says Drew Deckman. “The menu reflects our earth-to-table vision to redefine the way people think about and experience sustainable dining and help to revolutionize the future of the restaurant industry.” Deckman’s farm on a private ranch ~30 miles away will serve as the main source of ingredients, growing everything from organic vegetables and produce to herbs and flowers to guarantee quality, but also to ensure kitchen waste can be recycled or composted properly. 31THIRTYONE will source livestock exclusively from San Diego County and tap into San Diego/Baja’s advanced sustainable aquaculture to utilize carbon-reducing ocean plant proteins, sea vegetables, underutilized species, and farmed bivalves. Meanwhile, the bar program will epitomize the liquid pride of Mexico, offering a heavy selection of agave spirits and inventive cocktails. To minimize the restaurant’s carbon footprint, inclusive of product sourcing and transportation, wines will come from no further north than Santa Barbara and no further south than Baja with beers from San Diego and northern Baja-based breweries. The 4,200 sq ft restaurant designed by Megan Power, principal interior architect & designer at San Diego-based Workind Studio, will feature a first-floor dining room and cocktail bar, 10-seat chef’s counter and oyster bar bellying up to an open chef’s kitchen, a private dining room, and a rooftop patio offering drinks and a la carte dishes. For more information on 31THIRTYONE, please visit www.The3131.com, and follow along on social at: @3131bydeckmans @bajafishingchef. --- ## Renowned San Diego Artist Dave Persue to Showcase Diverse Career Phases at Art Produce URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/renowned-san-diego-artist-dave-persue-to-showcase-diverse-career-phases-at-art-produce/ From Skateboarding Days to BunnyKitty and more, Event Will Showcase Artistic Journey of Local Legend   San Diego, CA – Internationally acclaimed artist David “Persue” Ross is gearing up to present a captivating art pop-up at Art Produce Gallery in North Park, San Diego. The showcase, set to open on March 4th, will spotlight three pivotal phases of Persue’s illustrious career: his contributions to the skateboarding world, the iconic BunnyKitty universe, and his innovative exploration of liminal space. The launch party, in collaboration with Botanica Bar and Chrome City Creative Studio, will commence on Thursday, March 21st, offering attendees an exclusive glimpse into Persue’s multifaceted artistic journey. Born in San Diego in 1972, Persue’s artistic prowess emerged at a young age under the nurturing guidance of his grandmother, who recognized and cultivated his innate talent for drawing and painting. In 1988, he delved into the world of aerosol art, adopting the moniker Persue, which would become synonymous with his groundbreaking contributions to graffiti and street art. Persue’s career trajectory skyrocketed in 1992 when he was discovered by Ken Block and Damon Way, leading to a pivotal role as the founding artist for several influential skate brands. Over the next 25 years, Persue created iconic logos for companies such as: Eightball Clothing, Circa Footwear, Evol Snowboards, DC shoes and much more. The artist’s journey took him across the globe, from Korea to Mexico, where he collaborated with fellow artists and left his creative imprint on diverse landscapes. Collaborations have included toy and fashion company,  SUPERPLASTIC, athletic apparel, and footwear brand Li-ning China, Complexland, as well as collabs with San Diego staples like Arts-Rec and Harland Brewing Company.  In 2001, Persue introduced the world to Bunny Kitty, a beloved character that embodies his distinctive fusion of whimsy and urban culture. Despite initial criticism, Bunny Kitty’s evolution into a global phenomenon underscored Persue’s unwavering commitment to artistic integrity. Transitioning from corporate to independent artist in 2010, Persue embraced new challenges and opportunities, relocating to New York City to embark on a fresh chapter of his career.  The upcoming showcase at Art Produce Gallery will offer a comprehensive overview of Persue’s oeuvre, from his early days in the skateboarding scene to his latest exploration of liminal space. Drawing inspiration from his experiences navigating the New York City subway system, Persue’s Liminal Space series embodies a captivating blend of graffiti’s rebellious spirit and minimalist abstraction. Art enthusiasts attending the private launch event on March 21st will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Persue’s vibrant world, savoring Bunny Kitty-themed cocktails crafted by Botanica Bar’s mixologist Marina Ferriera, and experiencing live vinyl DJ sets. Limited space is available, and guests are encouraged to RSVP on Eventbrite to secure their spot. Images are available upon request.  LINKS:  RSVP Dave’s Website  Dave’s Instagram     About Art Produce Gallery: Art Produce Gallery, under the visionary leadership of founder Lynn Susholtz, serves as a dynamic platform for fostering creativity and community engagement in North Park. Dedicated to showcasing the work of local and international artists, the gallery hosts exhibitions, installations, and events that push the boundaries of contemporary art. About Botanica Bar: Botanica Bar offers a unique fusion of culinary excellence, craft cocktails, and immersive art experiences, creating a vibrant gathering space in the heart of North Park. Committed to connecting the community through creativity and innovation, Botanica Bar features a curated selection of spirits, delectable bar bites, and a rotating gallery of commissioned artwork and NFT exhibitions. For press inquiries or additional information, please contact:  Alexandria Ott aott@chromecitycreative.com --- ## Director’s Digest: March URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/directors-digest-march/ Celebrating Diversity and Women’s Leadership in North Park As the Executive Director of North Park Main Street (NPMS), I am proud to reflect on the significance of both Black History Month and the start of Women’s History Month. These observances serve as important reminders of the contributions and struggles of historically marginalized communities, while also providing an opportunity for celebration and recognition. However, it’s crucial to remember that our commitment to diversity and inclusion should extend beyond just these designated months. We can show up and show out for our black and women owned businesses 365 days a year! At NPMS, we advocate for North Park’s business community and administer the North Park Business Improvement District (BID). We believe in championing development that preserves our community’s historic integrity, supports it’s arts & culture, and promotes an urban, pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining environment. Central to our mission is the recognition that diversity is not only important but essential to maintaining a healthy and resilient community. Jane Jacobs, a pioneer in urban studies, famously championed the idea that urban diversity improves the quality of citizens’ lives. This sentiment rings true in North Park, where our diverse business community enriches the fabric of our neighborhood. From small local shops to large bank branches, diversity in businesses and business owners fosters creativity, economic growth, and a sense of belonging for all residents. As we enter Women’s History Month, we recognize that women play a crucial role in shaping North Park’s business landscape, and we celebrate their leadership and achievements. To continue to promote the stories and success of this community, we will be hosting a women’s mixer this month, where County Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe will share her experiences and connect with our community, further highlighting the importance of women’s leadership. If you are interested in being involved, please contact sandra@northparkmainstreet.com Women’s impact on our community is also felt behind the scenes at NPMS, we are fortunate to have Sandra Torres, our dedicated community engagement coordinator. Sandra’s tireless efforts ensure the success of our community events, from ribbon cuttings to business forums. Her commitment to promoting a vibrant community is truly invaluable, and we are grateful for her contributions. As we reflect on the significance of Black History Month and look ahead to Women’s History Month, let us remember that diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords but fundamental principles that should guide our actions every day of the year. Together, let’s continue to build a North Park that embraces and celebrates the richness of its diversity. --- ## Adrianne: The Heart and Soul Behind The Lab A Salon, A North Park Gem URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/adrianne-the-heart-and-soul-behind-the-lab-a-salon-a-north-park-gem/ In the heart of North Park, there exists a haven of creativity, warmth, and innovation – The Lab A Salon. Since its establishment in 2008, this salon has not only been a hub for exceptional hair and beauty services, but has also played a vital role in nurturing a sense of belonging and unity within the neighborhood. At the helm of this enterprise is Adrianne, the compassionate owner and master stylist, whose unwavering dedication has transformed The Lab A Salon into a cherished local institution.   Visit The Lab's Website The Birth of The Lab A Salon Adrianne’s first big chapter as a stylist took place in a loft on the second floor in Bankers Hill. The studio had a steady clientele and was successful in spite of low foot traffic & even lower airplane flyovers. Things started to change when the business was sold. The new owner saw the business and the stylists as investments, which they could squeeze for profit without being involved in operations. That’s when Adrianne started to think about her next step. The struggle was Adrianne had built such great relationships with her fellow stylists, she didn’t know how to take that next step without leaving them. It wasn’t until her stepdad offered her the simple advice to, “just build your own,” that ideas began to form. Adrianne took up that advice, asked the other stylists if they’d follow her, and set about making her idea a reality. Choosing North Park as the salon’s home was a product of ‘right place, right time’ At the time, Liberty Station was the new thing in San Diego, but the prices & environment didn’t fit for Adrianne. North Park in the 2000s was a different place (just ask anyone), but Adrianne saw the potential for growth and transformation. She was already familiar with the area because of networking with clients, “I wanted to meet clients that were in the industry where they were being seen,” said Adrianne, “This was before Instagram & social media, so we went out to meet our clients at Shooters, Bar Pink, and other hot spots.” While out shopping one day in North Park, she just happened to walk by an empty storefront with a door wide open. With a literal door of opportunity open, Adrianne approached the gentlemen inside and explained her vision. A short time later, they were moving through the process of setting up shop. The Lab A Salon’s journey officially began in 2008 when Adrianne opened a space that not only catered to hairstyling needs but also fostered a sense of belonging. When asked about how she came up with the name, Adrianne explained that the “lab” signifies the salon’s constant experimentation and commitment to understanding the unique needs of each client. “We are chemists. We are constantly talking about  and experimenting with pH levels. Alkaline & acids need to be specific to each client because everyone’s hair needs are different. Over the years, she witnessed North Park evolve into a vibrant, family-oriented community, embracing change while preserving its unique identity. She is grateful for the journey and what she has been able to accomplish. Looking back at it, her only advice to aspiring entrepreneurs was “start small, because I started out big… big team, big space. I didn’t know how to navigate it. It was longer and harder to figure out.” The journey to becoming a successful business owner wasn’t always smooth for Adrianne. She highlighted the hidden struggles, such as dealing with payroll, employee dynamics, and taxes, other elements often overlooked by those outside the business realm. But with an entrepreneurial spirit inherited from her fathers, who both own businesses, she knew she could figure things out with enough time and determination. A Visionary Leader with a Heart of Gold Adrianne’s commitment to her vision is evident in the way she nurtures her team. As a dedicated educator, she imparts knowledge, training her team, ensuring they understand the language and methodology of their craft. Her teaching style emphasizes individuality and personal growth, allowing her team to flourish in their unique ways. She describes herself as a supportive cheerleader, who’s approach to life and leadership is centered on empathy and compassion. The Lab A Salon is free from ego and negativity, emphasizing mutual support among her team members. Adrianne’s mission is clear: to help people discover their true potential and guide them without imposing her own views. “I am literally telling them how badass they are. They’re amazing at what they do and I can’t let fear seep into their head about are they good enough or whatever else we trap ourselves in,” Adrianne is someone who looks inspired when talking about her team & that energy spreads throughout the whole business. She empowers her staff to step out of their comfort zones, foster growth, and encourage creativity. She looks to get her team outside their comfort zone by engaging them in meaningful ways. One of her goals is to have her stylists attend & showcase at Anthony Edge’s Open Chair Nights. These events are a great opportunity for her team to realize the potential that Adrianne sees in them.  Adrianne expressed her desire to see her team members shine, taking the stage and showcasing their talent, a testament to her nurturing and supportive leadership style. Additionally, Adrianne highlighted the importance of collaboration and the close-knit relationships. She praised her best friend Cindy, who co-owns the neighboring nail salon, Hello Birdie. Cindy started off as manager at The Lab A Salon, and over time, through their mutual support and camaraderie, Cindy & Adrianne were able to bring a new business to life together. Having your best friend next door isn’t something many business owners can rely on, but for Adrianne it’s another blessing she’s thankful for… especially if their salon clothing dryer is down and they need to run a quick load. It’s easy to see that when Adrianne decides to hang up the clippers, she will have built an ever-lasting legacy through the numerous stylists, clients, and friends she was able to help reach their potential.   Through the Storm & Ahead Together Adrianne and The Lab A Salon faced the challenges brought about by the pandemic with resilience and determination. The outpouring of support from the community and clients helped the salon bounce back swiftly after the lockdowns, illustrating the deep connections Adrianne has forged over the years. A misty-eyed Adrianne recalls how clients, friends, and community members were sending them money during the pandemic. “I told them ‘you can use that for your service when you come in so it would be like a prepay’, but people just wanted to truly support us.” It was that showing that reaffirmed to Adrianne the importance and depth of what it means to be part of a community. In Adrianne’s eyes, North Park’s strength lies in its tight-knit community and mutual support among local businesses. Despite the hurdles, she remains optimistic about the future, confident in the community’s ability to adapt and thrive. The Lab A Salon continues to flourish under Adrianne’s nurturing guidance. Her commitment to education, unwavering support for her team, and genuine love for her community make her a beacon of inspiration in the hairstyling industry. In the heart of North Park, amidst the hustle and bustle, The Lab A Salon stands as a testament to her vision – a sanctuary where creativity knows no bounds and everyone is celebrated for who they are. More About The Lab A Salon Website: https://www.thelabasalon.com/ Address: 3034 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104 Phone: 619-543-9952 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelabasalon/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelabasalon/ Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-lab-a-salon-san-diego --- ## Building Beauty and Community: The Avant Garde Waxery Story URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/building-beauty-and-community-the-avant-garde-waxery-story/ Nestled within La Boheme, in the heart of the vibrant and eclectic community of North Park is Avant Garde Waxery, a haven for beauty and relaxation. Owned by passionate and warm-hearted certified Esthetician Paige, this business has been a part of North Park’s fabric since its inception in 2017. Paige’s love affair with North Park began when she decided to open Avant Garde Waxery. She found herself enchanted by North Park’s vibrant atmosphere. “It’s such a fun, exciting neighborhood where everyone comes to have fun,” Paige explains. North Park’s sense of community and the opportunity it presented were irresistible to her. She was drawn to the community and felt an immediate connection. It wasn’t just about business; it was about finding a space that resonated with her deeply. Avant Garde Waxery was born in the heart of La Boheme, where she could offer her unique brand of aesthetic services in a setting that felt welcoming and special. With her location locked in, she needed to find a name that connected her space, her personality, and her vision. Choosing a name for her business was a thoughtful process, and one that many entrepreneurs fret over (just ask any of North Park’s local business owners about their name) Paige wanted something unique that captured her personality and her specialty. The name “Avant Garde” had always been something that resonated with her throughout her journey in life. Avant Garde means artistically out of the norm, something unique and unconventional, which perfectly encapsulates Paige’s vision for her business. She aimed to create a space that was both extraordinary and inviting. Paige’s journey into aesthetics was not her first foray into the beauty industry. She began as a makeup artist, working for a decade before realizing she craved more. Her passion for skincare led her to become an aesthetician, and she fell in love with the profession. Paige attended the California Hair Design Academy in La Mesa, honing her skills and preparing to embark on her dream of owning her own space. Over her 13-year career as an aesthetician, Paige has witnessed numerous advancements in treatments and technologies. The beauty industry is dynamic, always evolving, and adapting to the changing needs of its clients. COVID-19 brought its own set of challenges, disrupting the industry, but small businesses like Avant Garde Waxery showed resilience and adaptability. Paige continues to incorporate these advancements by staying up-to-date through education and field trips to other businesses. Building her business takes a lot more than skill and experience. For Paige, she has built her business off the core values of honesty and integrity. She believes these values resonate with the North Park community, where businesses thrive on personal connections and authenticity. Building trust is essential in an industry where clients often seek vulnerable, intimate services, and Paige’s commitment to creating a safe, welcoming space for her clients shines through. “I honestly feel these relationships form organically, through sharing our lives with each other; with physical touch and care comes a special trust. My clients joke that our sessions are like therapy” says Paige. Clients of Avant Garde Waxery echo those same remarks and praise Paige for being warm, gentle, easy to talk to, caring, and efficient. They consistently laud her services as the best they’ve ever had. The reviews reflect the strong bonds Paige forms with her clients and the exceptional service she provides. One unexpected joy Paige has found in her profession is the deep friendships she has formed with her clients. The support and care they have shown her have been heartwarming and have left a lasting impact. Paige feels blessed to have her clients become an extended family, making her journey even more fulfilling. A very touching example is displayed on my wall of vintage hand mirrors. “A dear client gifted me a gorgeous mirror that belonged to her mother, which she remembered fondly of playing with as a child, and wanted it appreciated. I adore it the most and love telling people the story.” Creating a safe and comfortable environment for her clients is a priority for Paige. From the ambiance to the amenities, every detail is meticulously designed to ensure clients feel at ease. Soft towels, soothing scents, and open communication contribute to the welcoming atmosphere of Avant Garde Waxery. As a small business owner in North Park, Paige wears many hats. Her organizational skills have been instrumental in navigating the complexities of running a business. Learning from fellow aestheticians and engaging with the community has been essential to her success. Paige advises aspiring aestheticians to immerse themselves in the community, learn from others, and experience the services they intend to provide. Paige has witnessed North Park’s growth and transformation. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the community rallied around each other, offering support and solidarity. North Park’s resilience and support for small businesses like Avant Garde Waxery highlight its vibrant and dynamic nature. Paige’s journey with Avant Garde Waxery is a testament to the power of passion, authenticity, and community. In the heart of North Park, her business has not only thrived but also become a cherished part of the community. Avant Garde Waxery is a shining example of how a small business can shape and be shaped by its neighborhood, creating a sense of belonging and shared experiences that define North Park’s unique character. Schedule your appointment with Paige at Avant Garde Waxery. You will be in great hands! Avante Garde Waxery: https://www.avantgardewaxery.com/ Address: 3959 30th St #103c, San Diego, CA 92104 Phone: (619) 632-2014 Booking Page: https://paigewax.glossgenius.com/ Special Promotions 20% discount on first visit 15% discount for students   --- ## Order Up: Chef Quinnton Austin URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/blog/order-up-chef-quinnton-austin/ Nestled between Mississippi and Texas (the streets in North Park), Louisiana Purchase stands as a beacon of culinary excellence, offering an authentic taste of New Orleans right in the heart of Southern California. Led by the visionary Quinnton Austin, AKA Chef Q, this culinary gem delights diners with a tantalizing array of Creole and Cajun delicacies, each dish bursting with bold flavors and soulful authenticity. But Louisiana Purchase is more than just a restaurant; it’s a manifestation of Chef Q’s dream to create a culinary empire while fostering a profound sense of community and generosity. Chef Q’s journey to becoming a renowned chef was shaped by resilience and a deep-rooted passion for cooking that blossomed amidst the chaos of Hurricane Katrina. While pursuing studies in psychology and sociology in his native New Orleans, Chef Q found himself displaced by the devastating hurricane. During this period found himself constantly cooking for others. “I always worked in kitchens, but when I was displaced, I was putting together a lot of plates and people would come to me and say I should be a chef, that I should focus on that. It reformed me, and after I spoke with my mom and dad, I was ready to test the waters.” His culinary education began at Culinary Institute of New Orleans, where he immersed himself in culinary history and technique. For Chef Q, culinary school was more than just learning knife skills; it was about understanding the cultural and historical significance behind each dish. “If you wanted to make Korean barbecue, you’d have to study it’s history reports and then the school would bring in a master to personally show you techniques and little things.” The lessons learned at the institute instilled in him a profound appreciation for the balance between art and science in cooking, shaping his approach to cuisine and providing the foundation for his success as a chef. The backbone for his success is a lesson he learned in the kitchen in that “being content is failure” and Chef Q has never ceased to push the boundaries of his culinary creativity. Working in New Orleans kitchens, taught Chef Q a lot about life. “In New Orleans, you can’t be a clipboard chef, you’ll lose respect fast. I’ve seen guys walk off the line because they know the chef can’t cook. When I started running kitchens, I would be the first one to do specials. I would jump into the fire and people started to notice me.” Chef Q’s culinary and leadership skills helped him quickly work up the food chain from Assistant Corporate Chef, Test Kitchen Chef, Sous Chef, Chef De Cuisine to award-winning Executive Chef at some of Louisiana’s top spots to dine. San Diego received a blessing when Chef Q decided to move out here. “I was one of the youngest executive chefs in New Orleans and that was a great accomplishment, but I wanted to do more. I felt like it would be a good move for me to grow individually.” When Chef Q arrived in San Diego, he was quick to build relationships with local legends like Chefs Brad Wise and Brian Malarkey. Those relationships eventually landed him a spot at a new development on Louisiana Street in North Park, which turned into Louisiana Purchase. It wasn’t all straightforward, as Chef Q had to adjust to a new dining scene. One of the most significant adjustments for Chef Q was navigating the differences in ingredient availability and pricing between the two cities. “Ingredient prices were the biggest thing. Back home you get oysters for maybe 30 cents an oyster; catfish is probably 3.95 a pound. A bowl of gumbo should cost $5, but to make the pricing work here it comes out to like 20 bucks” Despite the challenges posed by higher costs in San Diego, Chef Q remained unwavering in his commitment to preserving the integrity of his dishes. He imports essential ingredients like shrimp, catfish, crayfish, and alligator from New Orleans to ensure that each bite at Louisiana Purchase retained its genuine flavors and stayed true to its roots amidst the Pacific Coast’s culinary landscape. The other challenge was the diners themselves. “San Diego diners are weird, they’re different. A while back, San Diego wasn’t really a food city, but since then you’ve got good new restaurants like Rare Society, Addison, and Animae popping up all over.” The evolving food scene has led to a rise in foodie culture, which Chef Q attributes to San Diegans being less critical of new food experiences and more willing to explore. “When I was moving here, a chef in LA told me ‘You are moving to North Park? Don’t season your food, Californians aren’t used to seasoning.’ I told him, I’m not going to do that. I’m going to season my food.” Diners are still grateful for Chef Q keeping it authentic to his roots. Chef Q’s dedication to excellence extends far beyond the confines of his kitchen, as evidenced by his steadfast support for the education and development of black chefs and entrepreneurs in San Diego. Collaborating with esteemed organizations such as Bad Boyz Culinary and Black San Diego, Chef Q actively champions aspiring chefs and entrepreneurs by offering mentorship, resources, and invaluable opportunities for growth. Through initiatives like pop-ups, rollouts, and community events, he creates a platform where talent can shine, and dreams can take flight. Chef Q’s vision goes beyond simply crafting delicious meals; it encompasses empowering individuals to pursue their culinary passions and contribute meaningfully to the vibrant fabric of San Diego’s food scene. “We want people to feel supported, safe and respected”, Chef Q exemplifies the transformative impact that generosity and community-mindedness can have, leaving an indelible mark on both the culinary landscape and the lives of those he touches. He is grateful for the support his community gives him and is always quick to return that support in kind, “It’s North Park, Southeast [San Diego], Lemon Grove, La Mesa… all that. We help each other. They support me and my passion and it is only right, it’s only fair, that I show up and support them. So whenever Black San Diego, Harvey Foundation, or anyone of these groups need something, we are there ready to help.” Recently Chef Q, and the Louisiana Purchase were part of an effort to provide meals to those affected by the January floods. He and his team didn’t need any motivation or incentive, they knew the community needed help, so they stepped up. With a steadfast commitment to fostering talent and promoting diversity within the culinary community, he aims to continue expanding opportunities for aspiring chefs and entrepreneurs, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Through ongoing collaborations with organizations like Bad Boyz Culinary and Black San Diego, Chef Q seeks to create a lasting legacy of empowerment and inclusion, ensuring that the next generation of culinary trailblazers has the support and resources they need to succeed. Looking ahead, Chef Q envisions a future where his impact on the culinary world extends even further. We’ve seen his visions come to life twice now with Louisiana Purchase and Q&A Restaurant and Oyster Bar (Oceanside), but don’t be surprised when news drops of new projects both here and a far. Chef Q and team are cooking up something good! Chef Q wanted to highlight some of the influential people in his success. A special thank you to the Wiley family, the Harvey Foundation, Michael Brady, Bad Boyz of Culinary, Black San Diego, Chef Kelston, and of course Tanisha!     Do you know a great North Park Business or Community Member who should be highlighted in our articles? Let us know by sending us an email to manager@northparkmainstreet.com --- ## Board Roster URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/board-roster/ North Park Main Street Board of Directors   Membership annually elects the Board of Directors of this organization. BID members and SED members shall participate in the election process. A term of office shall run from election to two (2) years thereafter. Any General and Associate Member in good standing as of the preceding June 30th is an eligible candidate for election. Meeting Time: The Board of Directors meets on the second Thursday of every month at 9:00 AM      William Lopez, Board President Business Owner: Alternative Strategies william@altstrategies.com BIO After starting a PR + Marketing career in his hometown of Chicago, William moved to San Diego, and in 2000, founded Alternative Strategies. For over 20 years, he has acted as Principal of Alternative Strategies, and his marketing and communications firm has expanded to become one of San Diego’s leading agencies of its kind. Alternative Strategies now represents over 50 top restaurants, bars and hospitality groups throughout Southern California, along with a host of successful businesses in other industries which include retail, commercial real estate and business complexes. William’s professional dreams have been realized with the many awards he and his team have received, the increased growth of his client list, and the legacy of success his clients have enjoyed throughout the years. William holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing and a master’s and a doctorate in Education from Northwestern University-Chicago. He gained significant marketing and PR expertise during his tenure at such noted companies as Nordstrom’s, Enterprise Car Rental, Thrifty Car Rental, Nine West, and Planet Hollywood. Working with these companies gave William an inside look at everything from franchise-based organizations to national corporations, equipping him to know how to help businesses of every size succeed. Han Tran, Vice President Owner of Shank & Bône shankandbone@gmail.com BIO Han Tran has been a board member of North Park Main Street since 2020, currently serving as Vice President. She has lived in San Diego for over 45 years since immigrating here with her family from Vietnam in 1980. Han graduated from UCSD with a degree in Communication, but her roots are cemented in small business, which she believes is the core of every thriving neighborhood. Han and her husband have been small business owners since 2003, previously operating the now-shuttered Ebisu Sushi in Hillcrest for 17 years. They now continue to co-own and operate Shank & Bone, a modern Vietnamese restaurant, where they enjoy being among all of the rich diversity, culture, and arts here in North Park. Han and her family have enjoyed witnessing the growth and evolution of North Park over the years, and especially the deep sense of community that it has to offer. Ashley Carter, Secretary Owner of Pure Pawsh info@purepawshsd.com BIO Ashley Carter holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Rutgers University, a Master’s degree in Higher Education from Drexel University, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Management (Ed.D.) from Alliant University. She also earned a College Counseling Certificate from UC San Diego and spent over a decade as an adjunct professor teaching courses in educational leadership, research methods, and humanities. Ashley dedicated the first 20 years of her career to higher education, serving in executive leadership roles overseeing admissions and recruitment, student services, large-scale university events such as orientation and commencement, and the operational management of multiple campuses. Her work focused on building inclusive, engaging environments centered on community, connection, and experience. A lifelong animal lover and long-time volunteer with local rescue organizations, Ashley blended her professional expertise with her personal passion to open Pure Pawsh in 2024. Located in the heart of North Park, Pure Pawsh is a one-stop shop and community hub for dog lovers, offering curated retail, grooming, doggy daycare, a self-service dog wash, and a dog-friendly bar. The space also hosts adoption events, wellness programming, and creative social experiences designed to support rescue organizations and bring people together through their shared love of dogs. Ashley is proud to serve on the North Park Main Street Board and remains deeply committed to contributing to the vibrancy, inclusivity, and continued growth of this dynamic neighborhood. Jasmine Bruder Treasurer Branch Manager, U.S. Bank – North Park   BIO Jasmine Bruder is a proud San Diego native with over a decade of experience in banking. She currently serves as the Branch Manager at U.S. Bank’s North Park office, where she has been leading the team for the past two years. Prior to that, she spent five years as Branch Manager in the neighboring community of Normal Heights. Jasmine holds a bachelor’s degree in social work, which has shaped her people-first leadership style and her passion for building meaningful connections with both clients and employees. She is deeply committed to employee development and takes pride in creating a culture of growth and inclusion. She also serves on the board of U.S. Bank’s Women’s Business Resource Group, where she helps drive initiatives that support professional development and equity for women across the company and throughout the San Diego community. Outside of work, Jasmine enjoys spending time with her husband, Matt, and their energetic 2-year-old daughter. On weekends, they can usually be found at the Zoo, SeaWorld, or exploring the museums at Balboa Park. Joseph Balestrieri Property Owner Representative: The Office Bar jb@theofficebarsd.com BIO Joseph Balestrieri has been the operating partner at The Office Bar since 2008 & served the Boards of directors in North Park for over 10 years. At North Park Main Street, he was Board President, Treasurer, & now VP. During that tenure, he’s helped plan various large-scale fundraising events such as the North Park Toyland Parade, Taste of North Park, North Park Festival of the Arts, and World Cup 2014 & 2018 outdoor viewing parties. For the North Park Community Association, he’s fundraised for & planned the BirdPark SummerConcerts, Community Forums & neighborhood cleanups. For the new North Park Business & Neighborhood Foundation, he’s programming activation for the new North Park Mini-Park for 2022. Steven Billings Owner of Original 40 and U-31 steve@orginial40brewing.com BIO Steve Billings is a fourth-generation San Diegan who has proudly called the North Park neighborhood home for the past 15 years. Deeply rooted in the community, Steve founded U31 Bar in 2006 and later launched Original 40 Brewing Company in 2019, both of which have become neighborhood staples along North Park’s vibrant main street. Actively involved in the day-to-day operations of both businesses, Steve values the camaraderie and relationships built with fellow business owners, customers, and friends who make North Park a unique and thriving community. His commitment extends beyond his own establishments—Steve served eight years on the North Park Main Street Board of Directors, where he played a meaningful role in efforts to strengthen the neighborhood’s business district while honoring its heritage and history. Driven by a genuine love for North Park, Steve continues to invest his time, energy, and passion into preserving the character of the community while helping it evolve for future generations. Jenna Cafiso Customer Success Director jennacafiso.npms@gmail.com BIO Jenna Cafiso is a San Diego native who has called North Park home since 2011. After spending 17 years in the pharmaceutical industry, she recently transitioned into biotech software, where she works as a Customer Success Director. Her career has focused on building strong partnerships, solving problems, and helping organizations grow. Jenna has been active in the North Park community for many years and has served on the board of the Business and Neighborhood Foundation (BANF), a local nonprofit, for the past four years. As a parent of children attending Jefferson Elementary, she cares deeply about strengthening connections among families, local businesses, schools, and the broader community. As a member of the North Park Main Street Board, Jenna is excited to support the neighborhood’s continued growth, character, and sense of community. Maria Hampton  Bank Manager, MyPoint Credit Union matt@renewsandiego.org BIO Maria Hampton is the Bank Manager at MyPoint Credit Union, serving the North Park community, with over 17 years of experience in the financial services industry. She specializes in business development, community engagement, and supports local businesses and entrepreneurs. As a longtime San Diegan and proud North Park resident, Maria brings both professional expertise and a deep personal commitment to the neighborhood. Maria is actively involved in community leadership and service as a previous Chair and current committee member of MANA de San Diego, an alumna of the LSLP Class of 2018, a member of the Chicano Federation Cohort Class of 2023, and a participant in the HOPE Leadership Institute Cohort 2026. Her work reflects a strong dedication to advancing inclusive economic initiatives, strengthening local partnerships, and supporting the continued growth and vitality of North Park. Jenna Hanson CEO Revival Vintage Eyewear revivalspecs@gmail.com BIO Jenna Hanson is the owner and co-founder of Revival Vintage Eyewear, San Diego’s only vintage eyewear store, located in North Park. Her love for vintage eyewear began in 2020 while standing in the back of her now-business partner’s shop, surrounded by decades-old frames whose colors, shapes, and craftsmanship felt completely unlike anything being made today. In that moment, she knew she wanted to be part of preserving and sharing them. Before Revival, Jenna built a diverse career spanning academia, education, banking, and real estate. She holds degrees in Spanish and business management, along with two master’s degrees in language and culture, and spent over a decade teaching at the university and high school level. That background shapes the way she approaches eyewear today, educational, thoughtful, and deeply personal. They now have stores that span up the coast of San Diego, in La Jolla Bird Rock and South Oceanside. Now a licensed optician, Jenna curates unworn vintage frames from the 1960s–2000s and helps clients find pieces that reflect who they are and how they want to feel. Revival was named Best of San Diego by San Diego Magazine in 2022 and best eyewear boutique in 2024 in the San Diego Reader. Outside the shop, Jenna is involved in the North Park community, serving on the North Park Main Street Board and collaborating with other small businesses. She is also a part of the Small Business Advisory board with the City of San Diego. When she’s not working, she enjoys traveling and hiking with her partner, Noor, and rewatching Golden Girls and Law & Order: SVU, usually with her dogs Goldie and Rudy nearby. Lialie Ibrahim Owner of Falafel Heights lialie@falafelheights.com BIO Lialie is not only a North Park resident, but she opened Falafel Heights on 30th street in 2023 to share authentic family recipes. As an American with strong Palestinian roots, she knows what it’s like to be immersed in community and build a strong foundation through relationships and food. Lialie’s restaurant started as a popup falafel stand at places like Milestone Running Store, The San Diego Velodrome and Vegan Food Popup. While she’s had a myriad of life experiences, opening a restaurant was an homage to her roots and a way of reconnecting with the rich food and culture of her upbringing. Her early years were spent in San Francisco where she was born. Lialie studied and practiced two forms of journalism as an undergraduate and worked in youth development and education for underserved youth for 14 years. She has a master’s degree in sports business and multi-subject teaching credential. She’s active in both the running and biking community. Lialie hopes to continue her relationship with North Park and beyond and share authentic food at Falafel Heights while serving the community as a board member. Erin J. Minelli  Attorney   BIO Erin Minelli is a North Park resident and president of the La Boheme Owners’ Association. Originally from the east coast, Ms. Minelli moved to San Diego in 2007 to attend California Western School of Law.  She has practiced law for over 15 years and currently holds a senior associate position at a law firm that represents community associations.  Ms Minelli previously served as corporate counsel for a prominent real estate development firm in East County San Diego, where a large part of her practice was dedicated to the planning and construction of residential communities, and providing legal support to the company’s commercial and residential property management divisions. Prior to that, Ms. Minelli litigated civil, criminal and administrative matters in state and federal venues, and held several other in-house counsel positions before transitioning to her current role. Ms. Minelli’s professional experience, coupled with her personal ties to the North Park community, make her readily equipped to better serve the North Park Main Street Board of Directors. Matt Nault  Pastor of Renew Church matt@renewsandiego.org BIO Matt Nault is a San Diego native and first joined the North Park community in the 1990s. He lives in North Park with his wife, Florence, who teaches in a local public elementary school; along with their three boys: Benjamin, Levi, and Joshua. Matt is the founding pastor of Renew Church: a vibrant, diverse faith community in the heart of our neighborhood that strives to serve all our neighbors. He earned degrees in Mass Media Communication and Theology from the University of San Diego as well as a Master’s Degree in Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary. He is passionately committed to helping our neighborhood thrive in every dimension and has experience serving on boards relating to development for disadvantaged people and education. He’s experienced in business leadership and has been coaching Fortune 500 business executives around the country since 2008. Matt is an avid open-ocean swimmer, bicycling enthusiast, and self-proclaimed food and beverage connoisseur. Jim Sakrison Granada House Co-owner jimsak@gmail.com BIO Jim has lived and worked in North Park for over 20 years, building deep roots in the community while working in real estate finance. As a mortgage broker, he helps families and local residents achieve homeownership and build long-term wealth through real estate investing. Jim operates his mortgage business out of Granada House, a locally rooted gallery and art space that also functions as a community gathering place. Granada House supports North Park’s creative economy by hosting music, art, wellness and culinary events, and by providing a flexible venue for neighborhood events, small businesses and private events. Through his professional work and community involvement, Jim is committed to strengthening North Park’s local economy, cultural vitality, and sense of place. Kristen Nevarez Schweizer Pastor of Makers Church kristenschweizer@makerschurch.org BIO Kristen Nevarez Schweizer is a pastor at Makers Church, a diverse North Park community committed to following Jesus Christ by loving people. She is the daughter of immigrants from Mexico and the Philippines who met in San Diego. Kristen loves her hometown, earning a degree in Theatre Arts at San Diego State University before working at locally focused institutions, including The San Diego Business Journal, San Diego Repertory Theatre, and Scatena Daniels Communications. She also writes arts reviews and news for Vanguard Culture. Christina Semmer Employment Lawyer, GBG LLP   BIO Christina Semmer is a San Diego native who has lived in North Park since 2017 with her husband and son. Christina loves living locally; she spends her free time walking her NP neighborhood while listening to audiobooks and watching her son play soccer with North Park AYSO at Morley Field. Christina enjoys her career as an employment lawyer at a woman-owned law firm, GBG LLP. She represents employers throughout California in litigation, e.g., defending her clients against claims of wrongful termination, discrimination, retaliation, harassment, and alleged wage and hour violations. She also provides employment law advice and counsel to help her clients avoid and reduce litigation and liability risk. Christina regularly counsels clients on issues including employee discipline and termination, leaves of absence, and reasonable accommodations. Christina attended college and law school in the Midwest. She graduated with a B.A. in Political Science from Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota and received her law degree from the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri. After years of shoveling snow, Christina and her family returned to San Diego in 2014, with a renewed appreciation for America’s Finest City. Christina is proud to serve as a North Park Main Street Board Member and loves connecting with her neighbors through NPMS-related events. Alan Simpson  Director of Partnerships and Operations at Walkabout   BIO Alan Simpson serves as the Director of Partnerships and Operations at Walkabout, where he advances the mission of fostering community through genuine human connection. He brings over 20 years of experience in live events, concerts, festivals, sports, and entertainment, with a strong background in production and event management. In San Diego, Alan has managed major events including KaaBoo, the San Diego County Fair, and KSON Country Fest. He has also held leadership roles as a committee member for the University Club’s Sports and Entertainment Committee, the Susan G. Komen ELC Committee for the More than Pink Walk, and as Director of Membership on the MPI San Diego Board of Directors. A San Diego resident for more than 20 years, Alan is committed to leveraging his expertise to strengthen North Park’s cultural and community vitality. --- ## Economic Development Committee Agendas and Minutes URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/organization/committees/eco-dev-committee-agendas-and-minutes/ HomeBoard Roster Promotions Committee Agendas and Minutes   Mission: To plan events, activities, and programs that support the development of North Park’s business district Meetings: 4th Tuesday of every month at 11 am. Click the button below to sign up for our email list. You will receive meeting notifications, event notifications, and project updates. Sign up for Promotions News & Agendas Agendas 20262025202420232022202120202019201820172016201520142013 01.27.26 02.24.26 03.24.26 04.28.26 05.26.26 06.23.26 07.28.26 08.25.26 01.28.2502.25.2503.25.2504.22.2505.27.2506.24.2507.22.2508.26.2509.23.2510.25.25 01.23.24 02.27.24 03.26.24 04.23.24 05.2024 – No May Meeting 06.25.24 07.23.24 08.27.24 09.24.24 10.22.24 11.19.24 12.2024 – No December Meeting 01.24.2302.15.2302.28.2303.28.2304.25.2305.23.23 – Cancelled06.16.23 – NPMF REVIEW06.27.2307.25.2308.22.2309.26.2310.24.2311.28.23No December Meeting 01.07.2202.01.2203.04.22No April MeetingNo May Meeting06.03.2207.26.2208.23.2209.27.2210.25.2211.22.22 09.03.2111.05.2112.03.21   02/20/20Teleconference Meeting 08/06/20  Join Zoom meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87074158340   1.17.19 2.21.19 3.21.19 4.18.19 Meeting held at 5:30 pm 05.06.19 NO MEETING 06.20.19 NONAGENDA SPECIAL MEETING 7.18.19 8.15.19 NO SEPTEMBER MEETING 10.17.19 11.21.19 01.08.18 02.15.18 03.15.18 04.19.18 No May Meeting 06.21.18 07.19.18 08.16.18 09.20.18 10.18.18 11.15.18 NO DECEMBER MEETING 01.19.18 No February Meeting 03.16.17 04.20.17 No May Meeting 06.15.17 07.20.17 08.17.17 09.21.17 10.19.17 11.16.17 No December Meeting 01.21.16 02.18.16 03.17.16 04.21.16 No May Meeting 06.16.16 07.21.17 No August Meeting 09.15.16 10.20.16 11.17.16 12.15.16 01.15.15 02.19.15 03.19.15 04.16.15 No May Meeting 06.18.15 No July Meeting 08.20.15 09.17.15 10.15.15 11.19.15 12.17.15 01.16.14 02.20.14 03.20.14 No April Meeting No May Meeting 06.19.14 07.17.14 08.21.14 09.18.14 10.16.14 11.20.14 12.18.14 01.18.13 02.13.13 03.13.13 04.18.13 No May Meeting 06.20.13 07.18.13 08.15.13 09.19.13 10.17.13 11.21.13 No December Meeting Minutes 20262025202420232022202120202019201820172016201520142013 01.27.26 02.24.26 03.24.26 04.28.26 05.26.26 06.23.26 – Meeting cancelled 07.28.26 08.25.26 01.28.25 02.25.25 03.25.25 04.22.25 07.22.25 08.26.25- CANCELED 9.23.25 10.25.25 01.23.24 02.27.24 03.26.24 04.22.24 05.28.24 – No May Meeting 06.25.24 07.23.24 08.27.24 09.24.24 10.22.24 11.19.24  1.24.23 02.15.23 – NPMF Kickoff 02.28.23 03.28.23 04.25.23 05.23.23 – Cancelled 06.27.23 07.25.23 08.23.23 09.26.23 10.24.23 11.28.23 10.25.22 11.22.22 12.22.22 – No Meeting 02/20/20 1.17.19 2.21.19 3.21.19 APRIL FESTIVAL MEETING (NO MINUTES) NO MAY MEETING 06.20.19 NO JULY MEETING 08.15.19 NO SEPTEMBER MEETING 10.17.19     01.08.18 02.15.18 03.15.18 04.19.18 No May Meeting 06.21.18 07.19.18 08.16.18 09.20.18 10.18.18 11.15.18 01.19.18 No February Meeting 03.16.17 04.20.17 No May Meeting 06.15.17 07.20.17 08.17.17 09.21.17 10.19.17 11.16.17 No December Meeting 01.17.16 02.18.16 03.17.16 04.21.16 No May Meeting 06.16.16 07.21.17 No August Meeting 09.15.16 10.20.16 11.17.16 12.15.16 01.15.15 02.19.15 03.19.15 04.16.15 No May Meeting 06.18.15 No July Meeting 08.20.15 09.17.15 10.15.15 11.19.15 12.17.15 01.16.14 02.20.14 03.20.14 No April Meeting No May Meeting 06.19.14 07.17.14 08.21.14 09.18.14 10.16.14 11.20.14 12.18.14 01.18.13 02.15.13 03.15.13 04.18.13 No May Meeting 06.16.13 07.18.13 08.15.13 09.19.13 10.17.13 11.21.13 No December Meeting --- ## Board of Directors Agendas and Minutes URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/organization/committees/board-of-directors-agendas-and-minutes/ HomeBoard Roster Board of Directors Agendas and Minutes   Mission: To conduct, manage, and control the affairs of North Park Main Street. Meetings: 2nd Thursday of every month at 9 am Board of Directors Roster Click the button below to sign up for our email list. You will receive meeting notifications, event notifications, and project updates. Sign up to receive agendas AGENDAS 202620252024202320222021202020192018201720162015 01.08.26 02.12.26 03.12.26 04.09.26 04.09.26 BANF 05.14.26 05.14.26 BANF 06.11.26 06.11.26 BANF 07.09.26 07.09.26 BANF 08.13.26 08.13.26 BANF 09.10.26 09.10.26 BANF 01.09.25 02.13.25 03.13.25 04.10.25 05.08.25 06.12.25 07.10.25 08.14.25 09.11.25 10.09.25 11.13.25 01.11.24 01.30.24 – Business Forum 02.08.24 03.14.24 04.11.24 05.09.24 06.13.24 07.11.24 08.08.24 09.12.24 10.10.24 11.14.24 No Meeting in December – NPMS Board Retreat 01.12.202302.01.2023 – Open House Celebration02.09.202303.09.202304.13.202305.06.2023 – Board Retreat Agenda05.11.202306.08.202307.13.202308.10.202309.14.202310.12.202311.09.202312.14.2023 01.13.2022 02.10.2022 03.10.2022 04.14.2022 05.12.2022 06.08.2022 – Special Meeting 06.09.2022 06.17.2022 06.24.2022 07.14.2022 08.17.2022 09.01.2022 – Special Meeting 09.08.2022 10.13.2022 11.10.2022 12.12.2022 01.14.202101.27.2021 – Special Meeting 02.11.202103.11.2021 – Annual Meeting04.08.202105.13.202106.10.202107.15.202108.12.202109.09.202110.08.2021No November Meeting12.09.2021 01.09.202002.13.202003.16.202004.09.2020NO MAY MEETINGNO JUNE MEETINGNO JULY MEETING08.13.202009.14.202010.08.202011.12.2020*The December board meeting has been rescheduled to Wednesday, December 16th at 9:30am.12.16.2020 01.10.19 02.14.19 03.14.19 04.11.19 04.25.19 SPECIAL MEETING 05.09.19 06.13.19 07.11.19 08.08.19 09.12.19 10.10.19 11.14.19 NO DECEMBER MEETING 01.11.2018 02.08.18 03.08.18 SPECIAL MEETING 03.29.18 04.12.18 NO MAY MEETING 06.14.18 NO JULY MEETING 08.09.18 09.13.18 10.11.18 SPECIAL MEETING 10.22.18 11.08.18 12.13.18 01.12.17SPECIAL MEETING 01.30.17 NO FEBRUARY MEETING 03.09.17 04.13.17 NO MAY MEETING 06.08.17 07.13.17 08.10.17 09.14.17 10.12.17 11.09.17 12.17.17 01.13.16 02.10.16 03.09.16 04.13.16 NO MAY MEETING 06.08.16 07.14.16 08.11.16 09.08.16 SPECIAL MEETING 09.30.16 10.13.16 11.10.16 12.08.16 01.14.15 02.11.15 03.11.15 04.08.15 NO MAY MEETING 06.10.15 NO JULY MEETING 08.12.15 09.09.15 10.14.15 11.18.15 NO DECEMBER MEETING MINUTES 202620252024202320222021202020192018201720162015 01.08.26 02.12.26 03.12.26 04.09.26 04.09.26 BANF 05.14.26 05.14.26 BANF 06.11.26 07.09.26 07.09.26 BANF 08.13.26 08.13.26 BANF 01.09.25 02.13.25 03.13.25 05.08.25 06.12.25 07.10.25 08.14.25 09.11.25 10.09.25 11.13.25 01.11.2402.08.2403.14.2404.11.2405.09.2406.13.2407.11.2408.08.2409.12.2410.10.2411.14.24 12.12.24 – No Meeting 01.12.2302.09.2303.09.2304.13.2305.11.2306.08.2307.13.2308.10.2309.14.2310.12.23 11.09.23 12.14.23 01.13.2022 02.10.2022 03.10.2022 04.14.2022 05.12.2022 06.03.2022 Special Meeting 06.08.2022 Special Meeting 06.09.2022 06.17.2022 Special Meeting 07.14.2022 08.17.2022 09.08.2022 10.13.2022 11.10.2022 12.08.2022 01.14.20212.11.20213.11.20214.8.20215.13.20216.10.20217.15.20218.12.202109.09.202110.14.2021No November Meeting12.09.2021 01.09.2020 02.13.2020 03.16.2020 04.09.2020 NO MAY MEETING NO JUNE MEETING NO JULY MEETING 08.13.2020 09.10.2020 10.08.2020 11.12.202012.16.2020     01.10.1902.14.1903.14.1904.11.1904.25.19 SPECIAL MEETING05.09.1906.13.1907.11.1908.08.1909.12.1910.10.1911.14.1912.13.19 01.11.18 02.08.18 03.08.18 SPECIAL MEETING 03.29.18 04.12.18 NO MAY MEETING 06.14.18 NO JULY MEETING 08.09.18 09.13.1810.11.1811.08.18 12.13.18 01.12.17SPECIAL MEETING 01.30.17 NO FEBRUARY MEETING 03.09.17 04.13.17 NO MAY MEETING 06.08.17 07.13.17 08.10.17 09.14.17 10.12.17 11.09.17 12.17.17 01.13.16 02.10.16 03.09.16 04.13.16 NO MAY MEETING 06.08.16 07.14.16 08.11.16 09.08.16 SPECIAL MEETING 09.30.16 10.13.16 11.10.16 12.08.16   01.14.15 02.11.15 03.11.15 04.08.15 NO MAY MEETING 06.10.15 NO JULY MEETING 08.12.15 09.09.15 10.14.15 11.18.15 NO DECEMBER MEETING --- ## Beautification Committee Agendas and Minutes URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/organization/committees/beautification-committee-agendas-and-minutes/ HomeBoard Roster Beautification Committee Agendas and Minutes   Mission: To plan and execute special projects that promote a beautiful, vibrant, and thriving North Park. Meetings: 4th Friday of every month at 11 am. Click the button below to sign up for our email list. You will receive meeting notifications, event notifications, and project updates. Sign Up for Beautification News Agendas / SED Reports 2026202520242023 01.23.26 02.27.26 03.27.26 04.24.26 05.22.26 06.12.26 07.24.26 08.28.26 1.24.25 Agenda // 12.24 SED Report 2.28.25 Agenda // 1.25 SED Report 3.28.25 Agenda // 2.25 SED Report 4.25.25 Agenda // 3.25 SED Report 5.24.25 Agenda// 4.25 SED Report 01.24.2402.28.24 / 01.24 SED Report03.27.24 / 02.24 SED Report04.24.24 / 03.24 SED Report05.2024 – No May Meeting / 04.24 SED Report06.28.24 / 05.24 SED Report07.26.24 / 06.24 SED Report08.23.24 / 07.24 SED Report09.27.24 / 08.24 SED Report10.25.24 / 09.24 SED Report11.22.24 / 10.24 SED Report12.2024 – No December Meeting / 11.24 SED Report 06.28.23 07.26.23 08.23.23 09.27.23 10.25.23 11.22.23 No December Meeting Minutes 2026202520242023 01.23.26 02.27.26 03.27.26 04.24.26 05.22.26 06.12.26 07.24.26 08.28.26 1.24.25 2.28.25 3.28.25 4.25.25 01.24.24 02.28.24 03.27.24 04.24.24 05.22.24 – No May Meeting 06.28.24 07.26.24 08.23.24 09.27.24 10.25.24 11.22.24 06.28.2307.26.2308.23.2309.27.2310.25.2311.22.23 --- ## North Park Putt-Oberfest URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/north-park-putt-oberfest/ Thursday, September 17th, 2026 | 4:00PM – 8:00PM Grab your friends and tee off at North Park Putt-Oberfest! This self-guided mini-golf adventure takes you through some of North Park’s favorite bars and restaurants. At each stop, enjoy exclusive food and drink specials (all under $5!) while you play your way through the neighborhood. Tickets: Early Bird (through Sept. 3rd): $25 General Admission (Starting Sept. 4th): $35 Your ticket includes access to all 25 mini-golf holes, scorecards, and wristband for event specials. Tickets are limited! Secure your tickets now for an evening of putts, pints, and plenty of fun in North Park! Buy Tickets --- ## Documents URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/organization/documents/ NPMS Documents Articles of Incorporation, IRS Letter, & FTB Letter Article of Incorporation IRS Determination Letter CA Franchise Tax Board Letter Bylaws NPMS Bylaws  Annual Audits/Reviews 2024 | PDF 2023 | PDF 2022 | PDF 2021 | PDF 2020 | PDF 2019 | PDF 2018 | PDF 2017 | PDF 2016 | PDF 2015 | PDF 2014 | PDF 2013 | PDF 2012 | PDF 2011 | PDF 2010 | PDF 2009 | PDF Annual Reports FY 2024 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2023 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2022 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2021 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2020 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2019 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2018 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2017 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2016 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2015 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2014 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2013 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2012 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2011 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2010 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2009 ANNUAL REPORT FY 2008 ANNUAL REPORT BID Management Agreements FY24 BID Management Agreement 1st Amendment to FY24 Agreement for FY25 FY19 BID Management Agreement 4th Amendment to FY 19 Agreement for FY23 3rd Amendment to FY 19 Agreement for FY22 2nd Amendment to FY 19 Agreement for FY21 1st Amendment to FY 19 Agreement for FY20 SED Management Agreements & Reports FY23 SED Management Agreement FY24 SED Contract Extension – 1st Amendment to FY23 Agreement FY25 SED Contract Extension FY24 North Park SED Report FY25 North Park SED Report FY27 North Park SED Report Active Contracts with Sub-Contractors FY25 Subcontractor List – Explore North Park S.O.W. Financial Reports FY 2025FY 2024FY 2023FY 2022FY 2021 Jul 24 Aug 24 Sep 24 Oct 24 Nov 24 Dec 24 Jul 23Aug 23Sep 23Oct 23Nov 23Dec 23Jan 24Feb 24Mar 24Apr 24May 24Jun 24 Jul 22Aug 22Sep 22Oct 22Nov 22Dec 22Jan 23Feb 23Mar 23Apr 23May 23Jun 23 July 21Aug 21Sep 21Oct 21Nov 21Dec 21Jan 22Feb 22Mar 22Apr 22May 22Jun 22 JulAugSepOctNovDecJanFebMarAprMayJun Search for: North Park Main Street OrganizationAbout Meeting Agendas & Minutes Board Roster Documents Employment --- ## Mobility Committee Agendas and Minutes URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/organization/committees/mobility-committee/ HomeBoard Roster Mobility Committee Agendas and Minutes   Mission: To promote equitable access to the North Park by improving the safety and motility for visitors, residents, and businesses. Meetings: 4th Tuesday of every month at 1 pm. Click the button below to sign up for our email list. You will receive meeting notifications, event notifications, and project updates. Sign Up for Mobility News & Agendas Agendas 202620252024 01.27.26 04.28.26 1.28.25 2.25.25 3.25.25 4.22.25 7.23.24 8.27.24 9.24.24 10.22.24 11.19.24 12.2024 – No December Meeting Minutes 202620252024 01.27.26 04.28.26 1.28.25 2.25.25 7.23.24 8.27.24 9.24.24 10.22.24 11.19.24 --- ## Request for Proposal URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/rfp-and-jobs/ Job/Intern Opportunities Jobs   Internships & Volunteer Opportunities NPMS invites anyone interested in gaining hands-on experience to contact us at info@northparkmainstreet.com. Send us your resume and a cover letter that highlights what specific interests you have and what you hope to achieve with North Park Main Street. We routinely have opportunities in the following areas: Marketing / Social Media / Communications Urban Planning Project Management Requests for Proposal (RFP) North Park Optometry Mural 2026 Search for: North Park Main Street OrganizationAbout Meeting Agendas & Minutes Board Roster Documents Employment --- ## North Park Neighborhood URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/ JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER Subscribe Upcoming Community Events Click here to view the full events calendar North Park – Business Improvement District North Park Main Street is both a business improvement district established by the City of San Diego, and a Main Street program affiliated with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. As a volunteer-based, 501(c)(6) non-profit organization, North Park Main Street (NPMS) advocates for North Park’s business community, administers the North Park Business Improvement District (BID), and champions development that preserves the community’s historic integrity, supports its Arts, Culture & Entertainment District, and promotes an urban, pedestrian-friendly shopping / dining environment. North Park Business Improvement District Major Activities Galvanizing local business leadership and enhancing communication and collaborations Hosting annual North Park events such as the Taste of North Park and the SDCCU Festival of Arts in North Park, as well as the weekly North Park Thursday Market Promoting preservation of business community’s historic character Marketing downtown commercial district to attract investment and customers Actively supporting North Park Art, Culture and Entertainment District Promoting urban village style planning principles and ensuring quality development Assisting developers, business owners and tenants navigate regulatory requirements and access available resources Installing improvements, e.g. lighting, street trees, sidewalks, bike racks, refuse cans Coordinating efforts to address downtown transportation and parking issues North Park Special Enhancement District (SED) Initiated by property owners and managed by the North Park Main Street Board of Directors, the North Park Special Enhancement District (NPSED) provides special benefits, improvements, and enhanced services within the SED boundaries (see attached map). The NPSED provides a variety of improvements such as streetscape, aesthetic appeal, advocacy, safety, cleanliness, economic development, sidewalk power washing, and increased amenities. All this is funded and directed by property owners. North Park Special Enhancement District Major Activities Provide improvements that confer a special benefit to assessed parcels in the form of Sanitation Landscaping Improvements Economic Development Services 2024 Annual Report Year To Date Maintenance and Cleaning Data Last update: Nov. 2024 | Source: Eponics Maintenance App Feces Removed Blocks Powerwashed Stickers & Graffiti Removed Blocks Cleaned and Swept Trash Bags Pulled Abandoned Debris Removal Explore North Park Marketing and Outreach Program The Explore North Park marketing and outreach program instills a unique benefit to the visitors, businesses, and residents of North Park. Through various marketing assets, including a website, social media platforms, and print materials, the benefits of working in, and visiting North Park are broadcast far and wide. Not only are these assets gorgeous, they’re also highly trafficked and have demonstrated success in sharing our neighborhood’s strong character and message across the country.   --- ## Committees Minutes and Agendas URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/organization/committees/ North Park Main Street Meetings North Park Main Street is supported by a volunteer Board of Directors. There are four volunteer committees that work together with the staff of NPMS to build a sustainable and complete community revitalization effort. All committee meetings are open to the public – if you are interested in getting involved, please feel free to join us in person or via Microsoft Teams Board of Directors Date: 2nd Thursday of every month Time: 9:00 am Location: Online & NPMS office (hybrid). Open to the public. Purpose: To conduct, manage, and control the affairs of North Park Main Street. Agendas & Minutes NPMS Sub-Committees Promotions Date: 4th Tuesday of every month Time: Times will vary depeding of the industry Location: Online & NPMS office (hybrid). Open to the public. Purpose: To designed to bring together businesses within each industry in North Park to engage in meaningful dialogue, raise concerns related to community and business impacts, and collaboratively explore solutions. Agendas & Minutes Mobility Date: 4th Tuesday Quarterly Time: 1:00 pm Location: Online & NPMS office (hybrid). Open to the public. Purpose: To promote equitable access to the North Park BID by improving the safety and motility for visitors, residents, and businesses. Agendas & Minutes Beautification Date: 4th Friday of every month Time: 11:00 am Location: Online & NPMS office (hybrid). Open to the public. Purpose: To plan and execute special projects that promote a beautiful, vibrant, and thriving North Park. Agendas & Minutes Executive Date: Friday prior to the Board of Directors Meeting Time: 9:00 am Location: Online & NPMS office (hybrid). Open to the public Purpose: To set the agenda for Board of Directors meetings. The Executive Committee is made up of the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and North Park Main Street Staff. Agendas & Minutes --- ## Executive Committee URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/organization/committees/executive-committee-agendas/ HomeBoard Roster North Park Main Street Executive Committee Agendas Agendas 202620252024202320222021202020192018201720162015 01.02.26 01.03.25 02.07.25 03.07.25  04.04.25 05.02.25  01.05.2402.02.2403.08.2404.05.2405.03.2406.07.2407.05.2408.02.2409.06.2410.04.2411.08.2412.2024 – No December Meeting 01.06.23 02.03.23 03.03.23 04.07.23 05.05.23 06.02.23 07.07.23 08.04.23 09.08.23 10.06.23 11.03.23 12.08.23 01.07.22 02.04.22 03.04.22 04.08.22 05.06.22 06.03.22 06.03.22 07.08.22 08.05.22 09.01.22 10.07.22 11.04.22 12.02.22 2021 01 082021 02 052021 03 052021 04 022021 05 062021 06 042021 07 092021.08.092021.09.032021.10.08Special Meeting / Executive Meeting 2021.11.042021.12.03 01/06/20 02/07/20 03/06/20 Teleconference Meeting 04/03/20 Teleconference Meeting 08/07/20 Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81954793194 Teleconference Meeting 09/04/20 Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82743138695 Teleconference Meeting 10/02/20 Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81211376180 Teleconference Meeting 11/6/20 Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82590438039 Teleconference Meeting 12/4/2020 Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84453959553?pwd=MTcvckhPYWRBSDc1T0pwK1h0UHNEZz09     01.07.19 02.08.19 03.08.19 04.05.19 05.03.19 06.07.19 07.01.19 08.02.19 09.06.19 10.04.19 11.08.19 12.06.19     01.05.18 02.02.18 03.02.18 04.06.18 05.04.18 06.08.18 No July meeting 08.03.18 09.07.18 10.05.18 11.02.18 12.07.18 01.06.17 No February Meeting 03.03.17 04.10.17 No May Meeting 06.05.17 07.07.17 08.04.17 09.08.17 10.06.17 11.03.17 01.06.16 02.05.16 03.04.16 04.08.16 No May Meeting 06.03.16 07.08.16 08.05.16 09.02.16 10.07.16 11.04.16 12.02.16 01.09.15 02.06.15 03.06.15 04.03.15 05.08.15 06.05.15 No July Meeting 08.07.15 09.04.15 10.09.15 11.13.15 12.04.15 Minutes 2026202520242023 01.02.26 01.03.25 02.07.25 03.07.25 04.04.25  01.05.2024 02.02.2024 03.08.2024 04.05.2024 05.03.2024 06.07.2024 07.05.24 08.02.24 09.06.24 10.04.24 11.08.24 01.06.23 02.03.23 03.03.23 04.07.23 05.05.23 06.02.23 07.07.23 08.04.23 09.08.23 10.06.23 11.03.23 12.08.23 --- ## Shop Local Saturday URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/explore-local/ Spend $10 – Pick Up a Free Coffee Card at Participating Retailers Only valid at participating locations on 11/29/2025. Value for one free small coffee valued up to $7.50. Any remaining balance will need to be covered by the customer. May be used to discount a larger coffee. Valid only for coffee purchase. One per customer. Participating Locations The Gold Dust Collective – 20% off Purrgatory – 15% off Revival Eyewear – 25% off Whips n Furs Costume Shop – Check retailer for day of Pop Ups or Offerings Bivouac General Store – Take home cider sale Pigment – Spend $75, get a $20 gift card Our Story – 10% off ornaments The Girl Can’t Help It – 10% off all vintage Joon – Check retailer for day of Pop Ups or Offerings VISUAL Art and Supply – Hosting art vendors and art David’s Daughter – Snacks and drinks Replay Toys Boutique – 15% off everything Speakeasy Clothing Co – 15% off whole store The Cave of Wonders – Check retailer for day of Pop Ups or Offerings Hunt & gather – 20% off Shop good – 20% off Pure pawsh – free raw bar chew with purchase, 15% off dog food, drink & food specials Artelexia/Casa y Cocina/Casa Palma Dulce – free tote with any purchase of $30+ Get ready, San Diego — Small Business Saturday is coming to North Park!  On Saturday, November 29, our neighborhood is a haven of unique boutiques, cozy coffee shops, creative studios, and delicious eateries — all powered by the spirit of community and the magic of local business. Explore Local, Shop North Park isn’t your average shopping day. It’s a full-on celebration of everything that makes North Park special: its character, its charm, and the people behind the businesses. Expect warm welcomes, one-of-a-kind finds and gifts, holiday deals galore, and a festive, walkable neighborhood buzzing with energy. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect gift, craving a handcrafted latte, or just want to wander and discover something new, this is the day to do it. Come early, stay late, bring friends — and help support the small businesses that make North Park feel like home.  Mark your calendar, bring your holiday spirit, and see you in the shops! --- ## Shop Local URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/shop-local-saturday-2024/ Shop Local Saturday – November 30th at 11 AM In the spirit of Shopping Small & Shopping Local in North Park, join us on Saturday, November 30th for Shop Local a day to celebrate our unique, diverse, and locally sourced boutiques and shops.  The holiday shopping season will commence Saturday, Nov 30 at 11 AM with remarks from San Diego Mayor, Todd Gloria, and California Assemblyman Christopher Ward. The kickoff will be held in front of A7D Creative Group in honor of their 20th business anniversary! North Park Main Street has an array of holiday activations planned throughout the Business District setting the tone for a fun, holiday-filled day Exploring North Park! Shop Local Scavenger Hunt Meet Ollie the Owl, your loveable Shop Local mascot! Ollie will be hiding in some of your favorite North Park businesses on Saturday (11/30). Find Ollie and win a prize, read the directions below for more details! Shop Local Scavenger Hunt Directions Get ready for a fun adventure in North Park this Shop Local Saturday! Here’s how to participate: Find a Participating Business (click here to see our list) Spot Ollie the Owl – Search inside the shop to find Ollie the Owl hiding somewhere in the store! Claim Your Prize – Once you find Ollie, let the staff know. You’ll win a free gift and get to take Ollie home with you! Happy hunting and happy shopping! Shop Local Freebies FREE Shop Local Goodie Bags by NPMS at A7D Creative Group– If you spend $75 at a local North Park business, you can stop by our booth outside A7D Creative Group to claim a free tote bag with free gifts inside! Limited to first 150 people, must show proof of purchase from North Park business. FREE Tropical Splash Mimosa at Encontro with any purchase! FREE Cookie Decorating Kit at Bivouac Ciderworks with any purchase (Kids decorate cookies for free!) starting at 1pm. 100 kits available on a first-come, first-serve basis. FREE Community Yoga hosted by Crave Community SD @ 1130 AM at North Park Mini Park. Shop Local Happenings Kickoff Celebration with Mayor Gloria, Assemblymember Ward, and Congressman Peters @11 AM  A7D Creative Group Turkey Trot (5k) presented by Coach B & Seek Beer Co. @ 9 AM. Click here to sign up! FREE Community Yoga hosted by Crave Community SD @ 1130 AM at North Park Mini Park North Park Street Art Tour organized by San Diego Street Tours from 12 pm. Click here to sign up for the 12pm tour on 11/30! Utility Box Live Art organized by Visual around North Park Small Biz Big Deals Sidewalk Market @ Visual from 11 to 5 pm Craft Works Holiday Shop @ Art Produce Gallery from 12 to 7 pm Pictures with Santa Fundraiser @ North Park Lions from 5 to 9 pm. Proceeds fund the Fresh Food For Families Program Vendor Pop-Up Market @ 619 Spirits 11 -3 pm Shop Local Deals It will be continuously updated leading up to Shop Local Saturday! Pigment – If you spent $75 or more you get a $20 gift card Artlexia – 15% off entire purchase + free holiday tote with $75 purchase. Casa Y Cocina – 15% off entire purchase + free holiday tote with $75 purchase. Casa Palma Dulce – 15% off entire purchase + free holiday tote with $75 purchase. Gallery aka – 20% off storewide, excluding sale items. Presley & Co. Fine Jewelers – Enjoy 10% off anything in-store! BigArtVentures.com – Giant, 4×5 ft original abstracts for sale at $350 each. Paw Pleasers – Storewide discounts, puppy adoption event with Paws4Thought, and special gift bags for dogs and cats with purchase. San Diego Street Tours – 20% off all experiences with code SHOPSMALL20. VISUAL – Artist pop-up vendors, live art, and exhibitions. Yermadog – 20% off purchases of $100 or more. Activate House 50 Class Pack: $850 (only available on Small Business Saturday) 1-Year Membership: $249/month (unlimited access) 10 Class Pack Monthly: $200/month (10 classes per month) Melissa Roche Hair – 20% off services. Hello Birdie Nail & Lash Lab – Buy one Hello Birdie Nail Polish, and get a free top coat. Park Place Mail & Ship – One free additional mailbox rental with a subscription. Shop Good – 20% off storewide (*exclusions apply). North Park Lions – $20 for a picture with Santa (fundraiser). Our Story North Park –10% off Storewide. Buy one charm and get one free with every charm purchase. The Cave of Wonders – 20% off everything. Holy Matcha – New retail specials + new fall drinks. 619 Spirits North Park Spend $50 get $10 Spend $100 get $25 $6.19 Bloody Mary’s and Mimosas HOME + HOUND – 15% OFF Entire Purchase The Girl Can’t Help It – 10% off all Vintage clothing, And Special Sale Rail George’s Camera – No tax on select Canon Products, extra in-store instant rebates for camera items Bodega Rosette – 10% off all retail bottles in the Bodega! Stroll 9 to 10 am: 30% Off clothing only (+morning mimosas!) 10 to 11 am: 20% Off clothing only 11 to Closing: 15% Off clothing only Overload – Shoes and Clothes up to 50% off North Park Nursery – 10% OFF storewide sale including plants, pots, Christmas trees, garden supplies & gifts. Joon – Special offer at Joon! Receive a tote bag or gift card with your purchase, based on your spending amount. David’s Daughter – Drinks, snacks, Valentine’s Day coupons Pure Pawsh – 20% all dog food-dry and gentle cooked frozen products Art Produce Gallery – Free handmade bag with $30 purchase Gingerly Wax – 15% off all services and products Explicit Barbershop – $5 discounts Revival Vintage Eyewear – 20% off everything in the store! The Cave Of Wonders – 20% off everything Modern Times  – 20% Off vinyl records & 20% coffee beans Eat/Drink Local Deals Bivouac Ciderworks – 4 Pack of Cider, Buy One Get One 50% off Dark Horse Coffee Roasters – New Holiday Menu: Egg Nog Latte, Egg Nog Cold Foam Cold Brew, Minty Mocha, Peppermint White Mocha, Gingerbread Latte, and more! Happy Medium – Slushees! Pure Pawsh $6 beers, seltzers, ciders, and kombuchas $2 doggy beers Bodega Rosette – 10% off all retail bottles in the Bodega! Holy Matcha – New retail specials + new fall drinks. Encontro – FREE Tropical Splash Mimosa at with any purchase! 619 Spirits North Park Spend $50 get $10 Spend $100 get $25 $6.19 Bloody Mary’s and Mimosa Modern Times – $5 pints of Black House Stout or Black House Nitro Stout MAKE Projects – FREE Hibiscus Iced Tea with any purchase Ollie the Owl Scavenger Hunt – Participating Businesses List AKA – 3919 Illinois St Dark Horse Coffee, North Park – 3794 30th St David’s Daughter – 3758 30th St Encontro – 3001 University Ave Gingerly Wax – 3596 30th St Holy Matcha – 3118 University Ave Home + Hound – 3813 Ray St Joon – 3992 30th St North Park Nursery – 2335 University Ave Our Story – 2939 Lincoln Ave Overload – 3827 30th St Park Place Mail & Ship – 2358 University Ave Paw Pleasers – 2818 University Ave Pigment – 3801 30th St Presley & Co Fine Jewelers – 3392 30th St Pure Pawsh – 4045 30th St Revival Eyewear – 3821 Ray St Shop Good – 3027 University Ave Speakeasy Clothing Co. – 3911 30th St Stroll North Park – 3081 University Ave The Girl Can’t Help – 3806 Grim Ave Visual – 3776 30th St --- ## North Park Artist Wins First Place Award URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/north-park-artist-wins-first-place-award/ Shelly Chess, an artist and resident of North Park, San Diego, California, has won the First Place award in the February 2025 San Diego Watercolor Society (SDWS) Member’s gallery exhibition “Vibrations”. Her work was selected for this honor out of 259 submissions. Chess’s painting titled “Secret Cove” was selected by prominent local artist Richard Hawk for the honor. Hawk commented, “I responded immediately to the shape collection in this piece. Arrangement of shapes is powerful with satisfying space division. The unapologetically knifed patches for me echo the painter, Richard Diebenkorn. Love the treatment of painterly sky and water contrasting with very direct application of paint on the rocks. Wonderful balance between abstraction and representation. The piece has depth and a certain bigness. Beautiful.” Shelly Chess has been teaching art since 2009. She attended Minneapolis College of Art and Design and studied painting, drawing and printmaking. She then transferred to Arizona State University and received a BA in Fine Arts. After raising two children, and working as an art teacher, she decided to pursue her goals as an artist. She paints in a variety of mediums, and currently paints abstract landscapes and seascapes. Her inspiration comes from all things in nature. She builds many layers of paint to achieve texture and color. Color shapers and palette knives are her ‘go-to’ for creating an abstract piece. She teaches and exhibits at Art on 30th, in North Park, San Diego as well as at the Artist Lab in Carmel Valley. Find her work on Instagram at #Shellysartfulminds. The SDWS Gallery Exhibit will run through Saturday March 1, 2025. Paintings can be viewed and purchased at the gallery and on the SDWS website at https://www.sdws.org/galleryart.php?cat=7067 ABOUT SAN DIEGO WATERCOLOR SOCIETY The San Diego Watercolor Society, a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization founded in 1965, is dedicated to expanding the appreciation of and involvement in watermedia painting through education, exhibition and promotion. More information can be found at http://www.sdws.org. “Secret Cove” by Shelly Chess Acrylic, 30 x 40” Image courtesy of San Diego Watercolor Society CONTACT INFORMATION –Carla Scheidlinger, cscheidlinger@gmail.com --- ## North Park Thursday Market URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/thursday-market/ North Park Farmers Market EVERY THURSDAY FROM 3:00PM TO 7:30PM RAIN OR SHINE!   The North Park Farmers Market is a great community event! You can find farm fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, meat, cheese, fresh fish, dips & sauces, baked goods, fresh flowers, hot food from all over the world, local crafts, and everything you need to stock a healthy home. It’s similar to what you would find in your local grocery store, but you are supporting local small businesses! We have activities for kids, live music, and much more. Centrally located in the heart of San Diego, there is plenty to see and do in North Park. Take the evening to check out the surrounding shops with friends and family for an evening of fun in North Park! Parking / Travelling North Park Parking Garage – $1 per hour & $5 per day 30th Street Bike Lanes MTS Bus Lines:  2, 6, 7, 10 Become a Vendor Interested in vending at our market? Click below to start your application. We are unable to help you with the process until you submit an application. Please note that due to a high volume of applications, it takes time for us to properly vet each application. Please make sure you submit a full application. Vendor Application When Every Thursday, rain or shine, from 3:00 – 7:30 pm. Where Located on North Park Way between Ray St. and Granada Ave. + the NEW Mini Park Contact Us Email: market@northparkmainstreet.comFollow us on Instagram! @shopnorthparkmarketLike us on Facebook! @NorthParkMarket The North Park Thursday Market is brought to you by North Park Main Street   What’s Happening at the Market?   Live Music 1st Thursdays Wili Fleming @wilismash 2nd Thursdays Uncle Jason @unclejason619 3rd Thursdays Will Lee Brown @willbrown7775 4th Thursdays Fast Heart Mart @fastheartmart   Activities Face Painting by Free Spirit the Clown Bouncy House by Party Pop SD Giant Connect4 Cornhole   Events Follow Us on Social Check out our social media for highlights of our market and current vendors! Follow us on Instagram! @shopnorthparkmarket Like us on Facebook! @NorthParkMarket Frequently Asked Questions Does the Farmers’ Market accept EBT?Yes, go to the info booth in front of Swami’s Cafe and swipe your card. You will receive our North Park Market Bucks that can be spent at most vendors. Can I bring my pet to the market?CalCode guidelines prohibit pets at farmers’ markets. We never restrict legitimate service animals, of course. Can I use my credit or debit card at the market?Yes, most farmers and vendors accept credit, debit and sometimes contactless cards. If using cash, please bring small bills so you can pay exact change if possible. Is there parking at North Park Thursday Market?We have a huge near by parking garage available. You may also find neighborhood metered and unmetered parking. It’s raining in my neighborhood – will the market be open?North Park Thursday Market operates rain or shine, just like your local grocery stores!   Learn more about the people who grow our food, own our local businesses, and make our neighborhood unique! Sign up for our newsletter! Farmers Market Newsletter Sign up to receive the e-newsletter for the North Park Farmers Market. Email Address(Required) First NameLast NameBonus: What is the best fruit or veggie in the world? Submit Δ --- ## Maintenance App URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/maintenance-app/ North Park Maintenance App Help keep our district clean by reporting issues to our maintenance team via our app! This helps streamline communication between district needs & NPMS operations. Directly report NON-EMERGENCY maintenance and public safety concerns in North Park’s Special Enhancement District. Message directly with our maintenance team to identify problems like overflowing trash cans, graffiti, tree trimming requests, and much more. Through this app, you can describe a concern, the location of an incident, and include photos of a service request. Our streamlined reporting process makes it easy to track issues from start to finish!   *This program is for North Park’s Special Enhancement District. Program coverage is outlined by the boundaries of our district roughly the 30th Street & University Avenue Business Corridor. To learn more about North Park Main Street, the Special Enhancement District visit: https://northparkmainstreet.com/sed/ This does not replace or duplicate any functions of The City of San Diego’s Get It Done App. You will still need to use Get It Done to report anything to the City & to activate their service network. Download Get It Done     DOWNLOAD NORTH PARK MAINTENANCE APP IOS Download Android Download   What types of issues can I report? Overflowing Trash CansGraffiti on Public PropertyDebris & Large Bulky ItemsSticker Removal Tree MaintenanceOvergrown WeedsBio-waste (feces, urine, etc..)Dirty Sidewalks & Medians Coverage Area The North Park Special Enhancement District (SED) provides maintenance, sanitation, and beautification coverage to the area highlighted below. Property parcels outside the district bounds do not receive coverage or service from North Park SED programs. --- ## North Park Business Improvement District URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/business-improvement-district/ North Park Business Improvement District North Park Main Street is both a business improvement district established by the City of San Diego, and a Main Street program affiliated with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. As a volunteer-based, 501(c)(6) non-profit organization, North Park Main Street (NPMS) advocates for North Park’s business community, administers the North Park Business Improvement District (BID), and champions development that preserves the community’s historic integrity, supports its Arts, Culture & Entertainment District, and promotes an urban, pedestrian-friendly shopping / dining environment. North Park Main Street & Business Improvement District Major Activities Galvanizing local business leadership and enhancing communication and collaborations Hosting annual North Park events such as the Taste of North Park and the North Park Music Festival, as well as the weekly North Park Thursday Market Promoting preservation of business community’s historic character Marketing commercial district to attract investment and customers Actively supporting North Park Art, Culture and Entertainment District Promoting urban village style planning principles and ensuring quality development Assisting developers, business owners and tenants navigate regulatory requirements and access available resources Installing improvements, e.g. lighting, street trees, sidewalks, bike racks, refuse cans Coordinating efforts to address downtown transportation and parking issues CLICK HERE FOR A DISTRICT MAP   --- ## Taste of North Park URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/taste-of-north-park/ Explore The Tastes & Sips of North Park! SATURDAY, OCT 5, 2024 Discover the culinary innovation and vibrant culture of North Park, a premier San Diego destination. On Saturday, October 5th, from 11am to 3:30pm, the Taste of North Park invites you to embark on a self-guided tour through our eclectic neighborhood. Enjoy over 50 food tastes and 14 craft beer, craft cider, and kombucha sips from North Park’s finest restaurants and breweries. Experience a fun-filled day of culinary delights, shopping at our unique boutiques, and enjoying live art and music throughout North Park. Join us for an unforgettable day of food, drinks, and entertainment! We will be announcing participating restaurants, brewers, and boutiques below. Come Explore North Park with us! Buy Tickets Participation Forms (Close September 16th) Restaurant Sign Up Boutique Sign Up Form Brought to you by: --- ## PROW Renewal URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/public-right-of-way/ North Park Public Right of Way “PROW” Permit Does your North Park business have exterior signage? Do you use the sidewalk for business purposes? Do you have outside seating? Each year you need to apply for a FREE public right of way “PROW” permit. North Park Main Street grants these permits to businesses in North Park. Read the city requirements here. The public right of way (PROW) is defined as the space between the curb and the adjacent property line of a business. The purpose of PROW is to optimize the growth and income of retail businesses and restaurants. The program encourages pedestrian traffic and beautification of the streetscape. North Park’s Public Right of Way Program is managed by North Park Main Street on behalf of the City of San Diego. Please note that PROW permits through North Park Main Street do not cover permanent fixtures like railings. If you want to install permanent fixtures, you will need to apply for spaces as places permit. Click here to learn more   How to Apply Use the form below to submit the necessary documents and renew your PROW application. Permits must be renewed by January 31st of each year. 1. Confirm that your type of application meets the requirements. Use this handbook provided by the City of San Diego HANDBOOK FOR PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY APPLICATIONS (PROW) 2. Fill out the form below. 3. Upload supporting documents. You will need to upload your business tax certificate, your insurance certificate (see examples in the right column)***, a drawing of proposed placement, and a picture of the area for placement.    *** Provide proof of $1,000,000 in liability insurance naming North Park Main Street and the City of San Diego as additionally insured and proof of current payment of business tax. Provide the following addresses to your insurance carrier: North Park Main Street2948 University Ave, Fl 2San Diego, CA 92104 City of San DiegoDevelopment Services1222 First Avenue, 2nd FloorSan Diego, CA 92101 New documents are required each year. A permit will not be issued without current documents. North Park Business PROW Permit or Renewal Form Name(Required) First Last Business Name(Required)Email(Required) Phone(Required)Business Address Street Address Address Line 2 City Type of Permit (Select all that apply). You can apply for multiple sign permits in one application. Please denote in your application materials the additional components.(Required) Free Standing Sign Merchandise Display Outdoor Dining Upload Your Certificate of Insurance. $1,000,000 of liability insurance naming the City of San Diego and North Park Main Street as additional insured. .(Required)Max. file size: 64 MB. Upload Your Business Tax Certificate(Required)Max. file size: 64 MB. Upload Scale Drawing of Proposed Enhancement. Scale drawing of the prosposed enhancement/use. The drawing shall indidcate the curb line, all existing obstructions (traffic signs, traffic lights, street lights, benches, etc..) and the location of the proposed enhancement. Please include the width of the sidewalk between the enhancement and the curb AND the enhancement and the wall of the nearest building.(Required)Max. file size: 64 MB. Upload Picture of Area for Proposed Enhancement. Include the entire area of the enhancement as well as the adjacent property to each side.(Required) Drop files here or Select files Max. file size: 64 MB. Submit Δ Example Business Tax Certificate Example Insurance Certificate --- ## About URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/about/ About North Park Main Street Mission To promote development that supports arts, culture, and entertainment, while preserving the historical integrity of North Park. To create a pedestrian-friendly destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment that supports our local businesses. Business Improvement District and National Main Street Association North Park Main Street wears two hats. It is a business improvement district established by the City of San Diego, and a Main Street program affiliated with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. As a volunteer-based, 501(c)(6) non-profit organization, North Park Main Street (NPMS) advocates for North Park’s downtown business community, administers the North Park Business Improvement District (BID), and champions development that preserves the community’s historic integrity, supports its Arts, Culture & Entertainment District, and promotes an urban, pedestrian-friendly shopping / dining environment. The North Park Business Improvement District (BID) was formed in 1985 which was the second BID formed in the San Diego area, after the Gaslamp District. Businesses located within BID boundaries pay an annual fee to enjoy the benefits of upgraded services such as graffiti removal, business assistance programs and marketing campaigns. The BID boundaries are legally defined and center around two primary corridors – University Blvd and 30th Street. The original boundaries were expanded in 2008 and currently encompass University Avenue from 28th to Florida Street, and 30th Street from Howard to Redwood. North Park Main Street was established in 1996 when the City of San Diego selected the North Park BID to be the pilot project for the national Main Street program in the San Diego area. NPMS is part of a coast-to-coast movement overseen by the National Trust for Historic Preservation which promotes the revitalization of historic commercial districts and supports their small, independently-owned businesses. The national Main Street program advocates a philosophy of local empowerment and the preservation of unique assets including distinctive architecture and pedestrian-oriented environments. The program uses a four points approach which incorporates the creation of a volunteer Board of Directors composed of local business owners, plus three volunteer-based committees which focus on: 1) Design – land use planning & architecture ; 2) Business Development – business support and recruitment ; and 3) Promotion – event planning and marketing. More than 100 local volunteers with a passion for the North Park community are actively engaged with NPMS. The Greater North Park community and the Main Street business district have experienced a triumphant rebirth within the last ten years. This North Park Renaissance has flourished with the emergence of a thriving new creative element. In 1998 North Park Main Street declared itself an Arts, Culture & Entertainment District to celebrate and promote this new economic and cultural trend. Over the past several years, a new professional class of artists, designers, musicians, writers and entrepreneurs, and a broad array of imaginative cultural events have transformed North Park into a widely recognized “Creative Community.” The North Park Main Street organization has approximately 700 members – businesses located within the BID district. Funding for the North Park Main Street program is generated from membership dues, City of San Diego grants, foundation and other governmental grants, special events, and sponsorships. North Park Main Street Activities at a Glance North Park Main Street’s Board of Directors and Committees, working with NPMS staff and the City of San Diego and other key partners, have been a driving force for major improvements and signature events within the North Park community, and in particular within the University Avenue/ 30th Street downtown commercial core. Key NPMS Activities: Galvanizing local business leadership and enhancing communication and collaborations Hosting annual North Park events such as the Taste of North Park and the SDCCU Festival of Arts in North Park, as well as the weekly North Park Thursday Market Promoting preservation of business community’s historic character Marketing downtown commercial district to attract investment and customers Actively supporting North Park Art, Culture and Entertainment District Promoting urban village style planning principles and ensuring quality development Assisting developers, business owners and tenants navigate regulatory requirements and access available resources Installing improvements, e.g. lighting, street trees, sidewalks, bike racks, refuse cans Coordinating efforts to address downtown transportation and parking issues --- ## Special Enhancement District (SED) URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/sed/ JOIN THE EFFORT TO KEEP NORTH PARK CLEAN, BRIGHT AND VIBRANT     What is the North Park Special Enhancement District? Developed by property owners and North Park Main Street, the North Park Special Enhancement District (SED) is a benefit assessment district whose main goal is to provide improvements and activities beyond the City of San Diego’s baseline level of service. The SED will provide Sanitation, Safety progams, Economic Development, and Landscaping programs to assessed parcels within its district boundaries How Does It Benefit Our Community? • Assessments are to combat urban blight, promote economic opportunities, and create clean and safe environments. • Cleaner, safer neighborhoods attract more people and activity which, in turn, increases rents and property values, and business opportunities. • Customers and residents feel more comfortable and safe within assessment districts that have less obvious signs of litter, graffiti, and abandoned cars. • Areas that have successfully implemented assessment districts attract a larger number of non-residential visitors and tourists. • Assessment districts have been important tools in preventing an economic decline in specific districts and transforming older areas into new opportunities for investment. • A stronger sense of place that accompanies cleaner streets encourages patronage and has increasingly positive repercussions in assessment districts’ areas. • Businesses consider quality-of-life issues to be more important factors in choosing a location than they do tax rates and real-estate prices. • Areas with assessment districts experience greater, on average, yearly reductions in the number of robberies, violence, and total crimes than non-assessment areas. SED Services The services provided by the SED are above and beyond the City of San Diego’s baseline services. These proposed services will include: Sanitation • Street, sidewalk, curb & gutter cleaning; • Graffiti and sticker removal for public spaces; • Urine & feces removal; • Emptying of common area garbage cans adjacent to assessed parcels to improve sanitation to assessed parcels; • Collection of litter, including dumping of large items in public right of way; and maintaining new medians. Improvements & Economic Development • Lighting facilities; • Signs and/or banners; • Promotions and Marketing; • Kiosks or display cases; • Wayfinding; • Landscaping; • Seasonal plantings and planters; and • Decorations. Economic development efforts, including retail retention and recruitment efforts are exclusively aimed at attracting business prospects looking to locate in North Park. Marketing and promotion of tourism within the district will also be conducted. How Are The Funds Managed? The assessments are collected from property owners through their property taxes. The county will forward them to the city. The city cannot keep the funds for its own purposes, the funds will be used on assessment district services that benefit the property owners. The city will forward the funds to North Park Main Street, which will be responsible for implementing the program with oversight from the City’s Economic Development Department. How We Will Use Our Budget Here’s What We Do Downloads NP SED Management Plan NP SED Operating Agreement NP SED District Map --- ## Members URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/organization/members/ North Park Main Street Members Membership annually elects the Board of Directors of this organization. BID members and Associate BID members shall participate in the election process. A term of office shall run from election to two (2) years thereafter. Any General and Associate Member in good standing as of the preceding June 30th is an eligible candidate for election. Meeting Time:The Board of Directors meets on the second Thursday of every month at 9:00 AM    Board of Directors   William Lopez, Board PresidentEmailBusiness Owner: Alternative Strategies After starting a PR + Marketing career in his hometown of Chicago, William moved to San Diego, and in 2000, founded Alternative Strategies. For over 20 years, he has acted as Principal of Alternative Strategies, and his marketing and communications firm has expanded to become one of San Diego’s leading agencies of its kind. Alternative Strategies now represents over 50 top restaurants, bars and hospitality groups throughout Southern California, along with a host of successful businesses in other industries which include retail, commercial real estate and business complexes. William’s professional dreams have been realized with the many awards he and his team have received, the increased growth of his client list, and the legacy of success his clients have enjoyed throughout the years. William holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing and a master’s and a doctorate in Education from Northwestern University-Chicago. He gained significant marketing and PR expertise during his tenure at such noted companies as Nordstrom’s, Enterprise Car Rental, Thrifty Car Rental, Nine West, and Planet Hollywood. Working with these companies gave William an inside look at everything from franchise-based organizations to national corporations, equipping him to know how to help businesses of every size succeed.   Patrick Garbani, Vice PresidentEmailBusiness Owner: Home + Hound I am a strong advocate for the neighborhood which I love. My wife and I own Home + Hound in North Park. I earned my Bachelor’s in Business Administration, majoring in Finance, and my Master’s of Accounting. I hold an active CPA license with over 15 years in finance, accounting, and banking. In addition, I am a Senior Manager of Accounting at Qualcomm. Previous experience includes positions at Tyler Technologies, a software company developing software for state and local governments, and a big four accounting firm, KPMG, which included audit work for the city of Detroit, Michigan.   Han Tran, SecretaryEmailBusiness Owner: Shank & Bone Han Tran has been a board member of North Park Main Street since 2020, currently serving as Secretary. She has lived in San Diego for over 40 years since immigrating here with her family from Vietnam in 1980. Han graduated from UCSD with a degree in Communication, but her roots are cemented in small business, which she believes is the core of every thriving community. Han and her husband have been small business owners since 2003, previously operating the now-shuttered Ebisu Sushi in Hillcrest for 17 years. They now continue to own and operate Shank & Bone, a modern Vietnamese restaurant, here in North Park. Han and her family have enjoyed witnessing the growth and evolution of North Park over the years, and especially the sense of community here.   Stefan Katsampes, TreasurerEmailBusiness Representative: US Bank Stefan, a native of Omaha, NE, moved to San Diego in 2022 with his wife and two dogs. There were many factors motivating the move, but the primary reason was to be closer to family. Stefan is a Business Banking Relationship Manager at US Bank and offices out of the North Park branch. He has spent many years in business and community banking and believes one of the key responsibilities of a bank is to support the community in which it serves. Through this experience he has seen how banks, when actively involved in the community, can promote growth and positive change for all members and organizations. In his free time, Stefan enjoys playing golf, reading, and hiking the many scenic trails around San Diego.   Steven BillingsEmailProperty owner: CKS Acquisition LLC & Spin Tail LLC Steve Billings is a native of San Diego and has lived in North Park for 15 years. He is blessed to consider himself a business and property owner in North Park. He and his wife, and his daughter frequently visit the many restaurants, shops, and small businesses throughout North Park. It gives them great pleasure to enjoy and support the neighborhood they call home. Steve and Patricia are co-owners of Original 40 Brewing and U31 Bar. Steve is also involved with investment properties located in the heart of North Park.   Joseph BalestrieriEmailProperty owner representative: The Office Bar Joseph Balestrieri has been the operating partner at The Office Bar since 2008 & served the Boards of directors in North Park for over 10 years. At North Park Main Street, he was Board President, Treasurer, & now VP. During that tenure, he’s helped plan various large-scale fundraising events such as the North Park ToylandParade, Taste of North Park, North Park Festival of the Arts, and World Cup 2014 & 2018 outdoor viewing parties. For the North Park Community Association, he’s fundraised for & planned the BirdPark SummerConcerts, Community Forums & neighborhood cleanups. For the new North Park Business & Neighborhood Foundation, he’s programming activation for the new North Park Mini-Park for 2022.   Jenna HansonEmailBusiness Owner, Revival Vintage Eyewear Jenna was raised in Tehachapi, California, a small mountain town in the southernmost tip of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. After graduating high school, she went on to get her undergraduate degree in Spanish and business management from SDSU. While at SDSU, she studied in Spain and sharpened her language skills. She then taught English in Quito, Ecuador, and decided to go back to get her master’s from Colorado State. She graduated with two master’s: One in Spanish language and culture and the other in teaching English as a second language. She worked for SDSU teaching English to international students for three years and then left to get her bilingual teaching credential to teach high-school Spanish. She worked in the Sweetwater Union High School District for three years. In March 2020, the district made an announcement that they would be letting go of over 200 teachers. Jenna was one of them. She had been teaching for over 13 years at that point and did not know what she was going to do. She got another job at SDSU teaching Spanish, but she just wanted something new. She had always wanted to be an entrepreneur. She had come up with countless business ideas, but they never came to fruition. Serendipitously, one day, she was looking at Instagram and saw a friend of hers with whom she worked at SDSU. He had put a pair of glasses on his new Instagram page. He was starting to sell unworn, vintage eyewear (manufactured between 1960 and 2000, but never sold). She was intrigued. She messaged him and asked if he needed any help with his new endeavor. He did, and Jenna fell in love with the glasses–their quality, colors, shapes, and styles were unlike anything she had ever seen. She and Jon decided to go into business together and open Revival Vintage Eyewear located on north park’s historic arts and culture street, RayStreet. She put all of the skills she acquired as a teacher, banker, server, and customer service rep and opened San Diego’s only vintage eyewear store. She is now an optician and can fill any frame! She currently lives in North Park with her adorable dog, Goldie. She travels any chance she gets, hikes, and loves to explore all the new restaurants and bars in the amazing North Park community.   David MartinEmailCommunity Member: San Diego Magazine Having been a North Park resident for the past 8 years, David is passionate about all types of businesses, community improvement, and events in North Park. David has been a part of the San Diego Magazine team for the past 11 years and currently serves as the Chief Operations Officer and Director of Marketing for the publication. In addition, for the past 6 years, he has hosted the nationally and locally award-winning podcast cast “Happy Half Hour” which is hyper-focused on San Diego’s restaurant, brewery, and bar scene.   Jim SakrisonEmailBusiness Owner: Plan Prepare Home Jim Sakrison has lived and worked in North Park for 20 years. He received his BA at the University of Colorado in Boulder and headed west to San Diego shortly thereafter. Jim has been in real estate finance since 2002 and is a partner at Plan Prepare Home, an affiliate of C2 Financial where he is a broker associate. He is active in the community and enjoys volunteering for bicycle advocacy and promoting the arts, and is one of the organizers of the North Park Music Fest.   Matt NaultEmailCommunity Member: Renew San Diego Matt Nault is a San Diego native and first joined the North Park community in the 1990s. He lives in North Park with his wife, Florence, who teaches in a local public elementary school; along with their three boys: Benjamin, Levi, and Joshua. Matt is the founding pastor of Renew Church: a vibrant, diverse faith community in the heart of our neighborhood that strives to serve all our neighbors. He earned degrees in Mass Media Communication and Theology from the University of San Diego as well as a Master’s Degree in Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary. He is passionately committed to helping our neighborhood thrive in every dimension and has experience serving on boards relating to development for disadvantaged people and education. He’s experienced in business leadership and has been coaching Fortune 500 business executives around the country since 2008. Matt is an avid open-ocean swimmer, bicycling enthusiast, and self-proclaimed food and beverage connoisseur.   Lance SadlerEmailBusiness Representative: Diamond Parking Services Lance is a California native, who has resided in the North Park area since 2018. Since his arrival, Lance has developed an admiration for the North Park community, due to its artistic nature, inspiring charm, dog friendly environment, and beautiful countryman style homes.  He is currently continuing his education in Business Administration at Maryville University and has extensive experience with project management and commercial property management. Lance oversees the North Park and surrounding areas as an Area Facilities Manager for Diamond Parking Services; a company that strives to support communities with safe, customizable parking programs and unique property management solutions. The incredible neighborhood vibe of North Park has only strengthened his commitment to ensuring that the community is consistently provided with a clean and safe preferred place to park. Lance is an active member of our community, helping to support local businesses maintain the safe, clean, inclusive, vibrant, and charming neighborhood of North Park. Search for: North Park Main Street OrganizationAbout Meeting Agendas & Minutes Board Roster Documents Employment --- ## Board of Directors Voting URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/board-of-directors-voting/ 2024 Board of Directors Election Below is the list of candidates running for a position on the North Park Main Street Board of Directors. Business Improvement District (BID) and Special Enhancement District (SED) members are eligible to cast a vote in support of candidates. Eligible Voters can vote for multiple candidates in one ballot. Ballots are accepted online and in person (at NPMS office during business hours). Who Can Vote Holders of a valid and fully paid San Diego Business Tax Certificate on the last day of February for North Park Business Improvement District….OR Listed on the North Park Special Enhancement District (SED) Assessment Roll for the current Fiscal Year (July 1st, 2023 to June 30th, 2024)   When Can You Vote Voting will open on March 14th and continue until 3 pm on March 28th   Where Can You Vote Online (Scroll to the bottom of this page) In Person – During NPMS office hours (between 10 am & 4 pm) NPMS Election Mixer – Pinky’s Cafe on 3/28 starting at 2pm   Click the ‘+’ to see their candidate profiles. David Martin - San Diego Magazine - davidmartin08@gmail.com Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? I care deeply about my community and have the ability to promote the great things it does. How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business/property owner community more effectively? Work with keeping businesses in business and keeping the community safe and clean. What is your vision for North Park? Less empty storefronts, increased community activations in events through out town What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? Marketing, events planning, media relations What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? Exciting dining scene What would change about North Park if you had the chance? rents for businesses and residents are way too high, remove the bike lanes and put them on less congested streets Guthrie Cook - Cetera Investors - guthrie.cook@ceterais.com Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? I want to do more for my community. I really enjoy working together with other people in ways in which real impact is seen and measured. How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectively? I believe that having a sense of community amongst the businesses in our neighborhood ultimately leads to stronger businesses across the board. When a business is struggling for one reason or another, they have others in their corner. To take this even further, NPMS has a great relationship with city hall which I believe helps on so many levels. Whether it’s simply getting their ear or gathering financial support, it all helps. What is your vision for North Park? I’d love to see as many of the buildings that are currently shuddered filled with businesses which would increase the overall vibrancy of our neighborhood. I want people in other neighborhoods to come down and visit North Park and really have their socks knocked off. I’d like us to figure out how to get more tourism traffic from both La Jolla and the waterfront. By bringing in more tourists, the whole pie will get bigger for our business owners and the neighborhood is bound to improve. What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? I’m great at networking, communication and organization. I think those skills combined give me a great ability to coordinate effectively with others, communicate expectations, and ultimately execute complex ideas. Furthermore, I’m very empathetic which helps me to understand the perspectives of others. Often times, I’m able to anticipate pushback and determine a solution to answer that push back. That being said, I think I could help out a lot in the event planning department. What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? I’ve been in North Park for three years only. That being said, I really appreciate that proactive changes are being made in the first place. Something that stands out to me at the moment is that the ribbon cuttings are becoming more and more commonplace. Starting a business is very difficult and can be demoralizing at times. Supporting and promoting small businesses can give the owners a sense that SOMEONE has their back. That can help them grit through tough times that are associated with virtually any start up. What would change about North Park if you had the chance? I think just a general better sense of cleanliness. We have a fairly significant homeless situation that surpasses anywhere I have lived throughout the world (except for Hillcrest, haha). I think if we planned more regularly scheduled community cleanups, more and more citizens will see that. When they see that, they may ask questions and get more involved; they may just take note if the effort and decide to find a trash can rather than carelessly dumping additional trash on the street. The more pride we can instill in everyone, the better the aesthetic will become.   Han Tran - Shank & Bone - hantran13@gmail.com Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? I enjoy being an active member of the wonderful north park community, to be involved in events, communications and planning, and to give back to the neighborhood. How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley? NPMS should be the primary liason between North Parks businesses, residents, and visitors. NPMS also stands to represent North Park to the the rest of our city. It should be a source of information and connection, as well as host and facilitator of community events. What is your vision for North Park? I hope to see NP return to its trajectory toward growth and vibrancy that was happening prior to COVID. I hope to see all vacant storefronts alive and operating with diversity of ownership and business types. May we continue to be a thriving collection of creative small businesses run by passionate people from all backgrounds. What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? I have been a small business owner for over 17 years and come with the experience that entails. I have solid people skills and enjoy collaborating with others to make things happen. What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? I love that new businesses continue to show up in the neighborhood despite the challenges of opening a business in these times. What would change about North Park if you had the chance? I would love to see the empty storefronts become active and thriving businesses. I would like to see fewer unsheltered people, less graffiti, and an Increased sense of safety. I would like more parking options, even though I’m not sure how to fix the parking situation in such a densely packed area. Jake Nunes - Modern Times Beer + Coffee - jake.nunes@craftohana.com Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? As a business operator and property owner in North Park, the success of the businesses as a whole in my favorite neighborhood is important to me. I have been working for craft breweries for 20 years in San Diego. In 2024, I serve as the President of the San Diego Brewers Guild and I already have a direct network to all the breweries in North Park. Their success is also important to me. My combination of experience, passion, and established connections make me a great candidate for the Board of Directors for North Park Main Street. How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley? I would like to see a North Park brewery/beer company committee or network established to support one of the greatest San Diego industries in the city’s best Beer Neighborhood. What is your vision for North Park? To be a nationally-known, must-visit destination for food, beverages, shopping, and entertainment. Also, to be San Diego’s best neighborhood to live in! What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? I have served as a Board Member and/or Officer in other local industry boards for years. I am very familiar with Robert’s Rules of Order. I have worked in the Food & Beverage industry in San Diego for 30 years, 20 of which for beer companies. Most of my work experience is in a leadership capacity. I am on a first-name basis with many of North Park’s business owners/operators and I know the neighborhood well. There is a lot of crossover with the initiatives of the San Diego Brewers Guild and North Park Main Street giving me additional access to tools and resources that could benefit NPMS. What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? The neighborhood feels much cleaner and safer. In my experience, North Park is the most tight-knit community in San Diego for both residents and business operators. What would change about North Park if you had the chance? Filling the vacant store fronts with new businesses.   James Sakrison - Granada House - jimsak@gmail.com Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? To continue to serve the communty through advocacy for the small business in North Park and promoting local artists and musicians. How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley? Through driving more traffic to the area with marketing and promortions and continuing the excellent standard of service of maintenance and beautification What is your vision for North Park? To be the cultural center of San Diego with great music and public art. To drive more people to the area to expereince the great culture we have here. To grow the music festival and make it more profitable. To bring other events to the area that will raise awareness of the businesses in the area. What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? I have been on the board for 2 years and have a good understanding of how things operate and can effectively work with the NPMS staff and other board members. What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? The North Park Plaza has been a welcome addition to the community and a great home for the Music Fest and other gatherings. The new restuarants and shops that have come in have been great What would change about North Park if you had the chance? More murals, less homeless people, and a balanced approach of development Jenna Hanson - Revival Vintage Eyewear - revivalspecs@gmail.com Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? I absolutely love the North Park community. I believe in its vibrance, uniqueness, and importance to the city of San Diego. There are not many neighborhoods left that have such a collection of one-of-a-kind shops, experiences and unique dining and bar options. It is so vital to a city’s success that neighborhoods like North Park exist. This community makes San Diego stand out amongst other cities in the US. When someone comes to visit San Diego, they want to understand the fabric of the city, and North Park is exactly that. I want to be a part of enhancing NP’s natural vibrance and making it a better and safer place for all who walk the streets. I want people to understand what makes North Park an amazing neighborhood and make it a destination on their itinerary. I believe I have a responsibility to the community in which I reside and own a business to be a part of the decision-making process. It excites me to look into the future with NPMS and see what is on the horizon. I want to be a part of that vision! How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley? The BID has enhanced our business from the minute Revival opened its doors. It has brought a sense of safety, community and protection that I was not expecting. For me, NPMS exists to maintain equity and accessibility for all business owners in the area. I say this because the organization is there for any and all businesses whether it be graffiti removal, waste removal, event planning and community gathering. If it did not exist, it would be up to the individual members to create community events and maintain the space. That is costly and time-consuming. Also, each landlord is of varying degrees of helpful in maintaining their properties. The BID acts as a glue to make up for any of these inequalities between landowners and business owners in the community. All businesses and owners should have equal access to maintenance, support, advertising, opportunity and information. Speaking from personal experience, in my own business, I have felt supported, welcomed, and informed since our inception into the community. I want every business owner, new and existing, to feel the same. It is imperative that business owners in the community know the power of NPMS. I would like NPMS to make itself known to every member of the business community. Everyone has a right to be well informed as to what the organization is responsible for and what benefits they have as members of this district. What is your vision for North Park? I want to see North Park continue to become one of SD’s best tourist destinations. I feel that our district has so much to offer anyone visiting San Diego from its unique shops, great dining experiences and all round amazing atmosphere. I also want to see more of a collaboration between NPMS and developers. I know that in most cases, there is not much NPMS can do, but at least to hear plans and draft letters in advocacy of our mission and vision for the neighborhood. I also want to see that there is a stronger collaboration between retail businesses. I would like to set up a retail committee that works to hear the unique needs of the retails businesses specifically. I know, for me, that would be a great support in my own business Additionally, I would like to see more pedestrian-friendly areas around the district. In the future, it would be great to see Ray Street as an adorable, walkable pedestrian street with lights and cute shops. I think that would draw so many more people to the street and neighborhood in general. Lastly, I would like to see more diversity and representation in all aspects of the district from business owners to the members of the board. I am only one of 2 women on the current board. I would like to help to try and recruit diverse members of our community. What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? It has always been in my nature to bring people together, create community and lead groups of people. In 2017, I created a social club with over 2500 members that hosted hundreds of events throughout its lifetime. I helped create community and relationships for hundreds of women. Additionally, in 2023, I also planned and coordinated the International Women’s Day photo shoot and celebration for all women-led businesses in the district. We had over 45 women participate in a networking event/photo shoot that was sponsored by NPMS and Nomad Donuts. The event that started as a small get-together, turned into something much more unexpected. This was a space where women felt celebrated, important and vital to the community. This was a space where women could be surrounded by their female peers in a showing of solidarity and achievement. Not only was this important to those who came and participated, but also for the women who will eventually see these photos and know that female leaders are not only needed but also imperative to the success of any community, neighborhood, business district or anywhere decisions are being made. It is these types of social and community events that I believe strengthen the neighborhood and make it a desirable place to own a business. I want to continue using my strength as a community builder to help create events and committees for our business owners and members. What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? I think NPMS has done an amazing job with so many aspects. I love the NPMS app that was rolled out last year to assist in maintenance-related jobs. It is amazing to be able to see data points as to where most events occur and what is actually happening in the neighborhood. I am also so excited that we are getting the shuttle from all parts of the district and city heights. I think it is going to bring so many more people and business into the neighborhood. This is going to be a turning point for the two neighborhoods. I love the events that NPMS hosts; they bring a lot of business and exposure to the neighborhood. I know NPMS is a maintenance district, but the events are so important to the vibrancy and uniqueness of the community. It makes people feel that NPMS is investing in the people of the neighborhood. I look forward to seeing the music fest and the winter wonderland flourish in the next coming years. What would change about North Park if you had the chance? In an ideal world, I would love to see some revitalization of the west side of the district and the corner of University and 30th. Strengthening those areas, strengthens the entire district. I would also love to see more help and support for our homeless residents. We have definitely been affected by the homeless crisis in our own business, so helping these individuals move into temporary and permanent housing would help out tremendously. Having more signage guiding and directing tourists and locals to different, more unknown parts of the district would help tremendously. If there were signage, it would help alleviate the need for so many A-frame signs around the neighborhood.   Joseph Balestrieri - The Office Bar - jb@theofficebarsd.com Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? I am an operating partner at The Office Bar on 30th Street — for nearly 16 years (the property has been a cocktail bar in North Park since 1948). North Park is a vibrant, dynamic, diverse & thriving neighborhood. I have attended committee meetings, contributed to & volunteered for a wide variety of North Park events since 2008. I have had the pleasure of working with & serving the Board of Directors for North Park Main Street for over 10 years, with 4 years on the Executive Committee, inclusive of a term as Board President. I feel I have an understanding for the North Park’s direction & its place amongst other business communities in San Diego. I want to ensure that Main Street communicates that vision in a clear, consistent & transparent manner. I’ve found serving the Main Street Board & North Park to be an enriching & engaging experience.. How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley? North Park Main Street is uniquely positioned to build relationships between the civic entities (& their respective elected officials), business owners, property owners & the North Park community-at-large. Main Street’s should maintain efforts to keep the district clean (supplementing the City’s maintenance) & safe (sustaining a dialogue with Mid-City PD & law enforcement). My belief is that Main Street’s *main* focus is business development; bringing positive attention to the business district. Main Street should communicate all happenings in the district with regard to : informing the local businesses & residents about capital improvement projects, making North Park a spirited competitor with other business districts in San Diego, hosting public events, business forums and highlighting new business openings (ribbon cutting ceremonies). What is your vision for North Park? My vision for North Park has expanded since opening my business in 2008; the rate of growth has been pretty fascinating. I have been pleasantly surprised by it & feel fortunate to have contributed to its growth. NP has very much become a destination for San Diegans & tourists alike, I think it is crucial to oversee this growth properly through events, community outreach, public relations, etc. For example, I would like to see further business development, real estate development, historic neighborhood walking tours, more street fairs, music festivals & media coverage for all of the above. What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? I hold a degree in Public Administration (Urban Studies & City Planning) from SDSU. It has provided the foundation for my understanding for responsible growth, coupled with an understanding of municipal government processes & procedures. Entrepreneurial experience in the hospitality business for more than 20 years has also helped me hone a skill set of communications, decision making, diplomacy & leadership. Past contributions to North Park include : event planning for The Toyland Parade, The Taste of North Park, North Park Festival of the Arts & The World Cup viewing parties in 2014 & 2018. Finally, I often feel that when listening to presentations about policy or legislation; *even if I have an understanding for the subject at hand*, I do my best to imagine that I was in the shoes of someone who has never attended such a meeting or presentation. I like to ask questions. =) What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? As much as it’s a work in progress, I appreciate how much safer North Park has gotten. As well, I like that there are more active storefronts & increased foot traffic. The overall sense of place is more attractive & accessible to tourism than it’s ever been. North Park is truly ‘on the map’, regionally. Arguably, North Park is experiencing its 2nd renaissance since we arrived in 2008. North Park is still climbing & growing & the neighborhood & district are still blank slate in many ways. We survived Covid!!! What would change about North Park if you had the chance? I would like to see more street lights on the surrounding side streets (particularly Kanas Street). I would like to see more responsible real estate development & a realistic look at making the bike lane feasible on a street other than 30th. Lance Sadler - Diamond Parking - lance.sadler@diamondparking.com Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? I want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street because I want to continue to provide my expertise on parking, transportation, and ways to improve the maintenance plan. I want to continue to work on clean and safe ideals to help the community achieve a safer and cleaner environment. How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley? I think that communication and being in the loop of events for things to come in the neighborhood is great. Also providing resources and outreach to those businesses that may need it. I think the support of each business owner will make a difference and be more effective. Helping each other in the best capacity we can to achieve the common goal of keeping our business district informed and on the same page. What is your vision for North Park? My vision for North Park is to do what it takes to help preserve the character and historical charm that makes this community special. My vision of North Park is more small businesses, restaurants, and breweries that contribute to the community vibe that is what it is now. What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? I have special skills in planning and organizing operations. I have a background in sales, property management, customer service, and project planning. I feel I can contribute to organizing and coordinating certain projects as well as sourcing out resources and or vendors. What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? The recent changes I have liked are the art painted/sprayed (not graffiti) on some of the sides of the businesses, it compliments the influence of the art and creative culture that North Park has come to be. Moreover, I admire the recent work done on Shank and Bone! What would change about North Park if you had the chance? If I had the chance to change North Park, I would help find a way to help the displaced community obtain the resources needed so that the neighborhood of North Park is safer and cleaner without the worry of vandalism or after-hours trespassing. lastly, as we roll into the future of public transportation and minimal parking, I think it is important that we help our community voice their concerns regarding new developments that do not offer parking. Residents of North Park already have a hard time finding parking and often have to park blocks away from their residences.   Landa Willmar - Ignite Growth Solutions - ignitegrowthsolutions@gmail.com Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? As a homeowner within the SED district and a new business owner, I want to contribute to a group that is dedicated to the growth of our slice of San Diego heaven. I adore North Park and want to witness it flourish. How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley? I think that North Park Main Street has done an awesome job in becoming a staple in the community, though I must admit that even I attended many of the events and did not comprehend the mission of the organization until I spoke to Mark. I think that educating the community as NPMS continues to strive towards it’s initiatives could propel growth even faster. What is your vision for North Park? I think North Park would be a great food and local retail destination for San Diegans and tourists alike. When I tell people that I live in North Park, they are pretty excited and can list a handful of wonderful restaurants or businesses. However, when I invite them to the neighborhood, the mood changes and it’s apparent that the idea of coming to North Park and finding parking, etc is not enticing which is a shame. What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? My professional background is in architecture and real estate development, as well as operations within hyper-growth start-ups. I am an effective jill of all trades “do-er” and am an organized and action-oriented team member. What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? I can only speak to my experience living here for the last 1-2 years, but I really appreciate the announcement and celebration of new business openings as well as the larger community events like taste of north park. What would change about North Park if you had the chance? The roads and cleanliness- which I think is predominantly fueled by a few regular and irregular vagabonds and unhoused folks that have taken refuge in business storefronts. Lialie Ibrahim - Falafel Heights - lialie@falafelheights.com Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? My interest in serving on the Board stems from a desire to learn and contribute to our community and the customers I serve through Falafel Heights. I have lived in this part of San Diego for 14 years and would love to learn more about how I can continue to make it a desirable place to live and play. How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley? Since I have a lot to learn if I became a new board member, I would start by listening. Listening to the business owners, the board members who have served before me and the community. I interact a lot with customers at Falafel Heights and it is a great way to get a pulse for the neighborhood. I would start there to serve the community. What is your vision for North Park? As a new business owner to the community, I would love to continue to see and increase in visitors and foot traffic. The more money that is infused in our community the more our businesses thrive. As an owner of a business myself, I can contribute back to the neighborhood, employ more folks and shape the neighborhood to continue to be a hot spot in San Diego with my authentic cuisine. I would love for us to continue the great North Park events we have at the mini park, the music festival and Taste of North Park. I would love to continue to add more to offer neighbors and folks from the outlying communities. What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? As a former educator, I have not only been the chair of various board groups but have also been a director and liaison for groups like parents and teachers. I am a team player who is always focused on discussions that focus on amicable solutions for everyone. What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? Did I mention North Park and it being a hot spot? :-). North Park has become a highly sought after neighborhood to live in. It features some amazing additions to our restaurants, boutiques and bars. It not only has grown to offer an expansive night life but a lot of places to stroll, sip and snack throughout the day. What would change about North Park if you had the chance? It’s hard to answer this one because it is such a great place to live and operate a business in. I would consult the community and board members to address what needs North Park may have. I know we have discussed a lot about safety with the bike lanes, street musicians and homelessness and how that continues to impact our community. I think those could be areas of focus for change.   Matt Nault - Renew San Diego Church - matt@renewsandiego.org Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? I came on the board of North Park Main Street over a year ago as an interim for a board member who was out of the country for a season. Upon their return, I was officially voted to remain on the board. During this exciting time, we have made many positive strides for businesses and residents: to increase beauty, safety and flourishing for everyone in North Park! We’ve grown through transitioning our excellent Executive Director, optimizing the board, enhancing the artistic beauty of our neighborhood, extending the cleanliness of our streets, holding elected officials accountable to continue maintenance and construction projects, and studying and pressing for increased public safety. Now that I have more than one year experience on the board, I want to continue taking next steps in these avenues! I’ve met so many incredible business owners, elected officials with the ability to get things done, people living on our streets in difficult circumstances, concerned and committed residents… I’ve seen so much beauty and so much need for increased public safety… These are all opportunities and issues North Park Main Street exists to serve! When I wake up in the morning, I think about the good of all my neighbors in North Park. Being on the board gives me an opportunity to use my talents and skills to put those thoughts into action in a meaningful way, on an amazing team of board members and community members. How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley? In my experience on the board of North Park Main Street, I have experienced us most effectively serving the business and property owner community when we are reaching out, and giving clear opportunities for business/property owners to reach in. We reach out by going from business to business, door to door to make connections and keep clear, communication. We reach out through social media, our update emails and other communications that are targeted to resource and empower local businesses. We give pathways for business and property owners to reach in with clear opportunities (such as accessible, participatory public meetings, town hall meetings, and access to board members and staff) to stay connected to North Park Main Street, and inform us their needs and opportunities, as we resource an advocate on their behalf. We also effectively serve local businesses as we relationally listen to understand their needs, challenges and opportunities and then step up to connect them with resources and next steps to tackle challenges and thrive in North Park. And of course, as NPMS continues to grow its effectiveness in keeping our streets clean and beautiful, this serves all businesses in the neighborhood. I’m excited to help all of these elements increase! What is your vision for North Park? I envision a North Park that remains rooted in its history and architectural beauty while growing its incredible spirit of diversity and creativity; art and entertainment. I envision a neighborhood where homelessness decreases because our neighbors living on the streets have access to not only the basics in life; and pathways they can pursue to heal (mental health and addiction treatment), develop (job training and life skills) and grow (housing and job placement). This of course will then affect local businesses and everyone’s general sense of safety on our beloved streets. I envision North Park as a magnetically attractive, humming hub of restaurants, shops, bars and cafes where locals come together to create even more vibrant community connections… as others from all around San Diego and beyond are invited to the connected, joyful, creative energy of the neighborhood. What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? I exist and thrive in a community of people with different backgrounds and viewpoints. I am comfortable on a team when the stakes are high and the opportunities are immense, even when the challenges are many and the mission gets intense. I’ve served several boards in the past ranging from education to care for marginalized people. I have a history of bringing understanding, compassion and unity to the boards I serve while maintaining unity and a sense of mission that moves us forward. Most of all: I love North Park, I appreciate our mission, and I enjoy this board! What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? I like many changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade but if I had to choose one… I love the increased art, murals, and creative expressions on the buildings and utility boxes in our neighborhood! What would change about North Park if you had the chance? I would change the current situation with so many homeless neighbors languishing on our sidewalks as others pass by, unable to help or unaware of ways to get involved to make a difference. Each day, I hope, pray, and work toward making a positive difference in this area that will give hope and new pathways in life to our neighbors who are stuck in poverty, addiction and mental health challenges. Nate Benedetto - Next Wave Commercial - nate@nextwavecommercial.com Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? I have brokered street retail deals in North Park for almost 20 years. My wife lived in North Park when I met her in 2009 and we bought our first house there in 2012. I lived in North Park from 2010-2017. North Park has been a main geographic focus of my business. I have watched the neighborhood grow over the years and I have participated in the growth by bringing tenants and buyers to the neighborhood. I have been an advocate and a cheerleader for north park for many years and I remain optimistic for the future. I served on the economic development committee of NPMS for many years. I would like to be on the Board in order to give back to the community and also do what I can to help North Park be successful in the years to come. How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley? I think NPMS could more effectively tell the story of North Park as a fertile ground for entrepreneurship and development. Homelessness is also a problem that the city of San Diego cannot be relied upon to fix on their own. If we want a vibrant retail district to attract diners and shoppers from other areas we need to continue to attack this problem from many angles and keep our sidewalks safe and attractive. What is your vision for North Park? North Park has more upward potential than any other neighborhood in San Diego. My vision is for the main corridors to be full of very cool restaurants, shops, bars, galleries, salons, etc., with added density of attractive multi-family housing along 30th and University. My vision is a neighborhood that continues to have soul and is known to be a hotbed for creative talent.My vision is for a family friendly neighborhood where people can walk with their strollers and not have to dodge people sleeping on the sidewalk or worry they are going to step in human waste. North Park can be a model urban neighborhood where people can live-work-play without needing to drive anywhere. What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? I have studied San Diego’s neighborhoods for 20 years and have seen what works well and what does not. I have been attending Little Italy Associations board meetings for 10-15 years and have learned their strategies. I am one of the top experts in town for street retail and restaurant leasing, sales & trends. What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? I like how our retail corridors are starting to fill in and provide some cohesive walk-ability. I like how the special events like Taste of North Park have gained steam.I like how the caliber of our commercial tenants has increased, but remained mostly local instead of national chains. What would change about North Park if you had the chance? I would increase the efforts to combat homelessness in the community. When people sleep on the sidewalk, they also go to the bathroom on the sidewalk. I’m a proponent of spending more public and private money on shelter beds, police presence, maintenance, deterrents, mental health services & relocation ideas.   Patrick Garbani - Home & Hound - pjgarbani@gmail.com Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? I’d like to continue assisting the North Park business community. How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley? By providing support, guidance, maintenance, events and other services to their community. What is your vision for North Park? Continued growth and development of the area, filling all the vacant buildings with new businesses without changing the overall community. What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? I’ve been on the NPMS board for a few years, served by as the treasurer and vice president. I earned my bachelor in business majoring in finance and my masters in accounting. I hold an active CPA license. In addition, I both live and own a business in our community so it’s success is essential to me. What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? Seeing our business and residents working together to build a stronger community. What would change about North Park if you had the chance? I would love to see all the vacant building filled with successful local businesses. Stefan Katsampes - US Bank - stefan.katsampes@usbank.com Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? Existing board member applying for a new 2-year term. How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley? By continuing focus on maintenance and events. What is your vision for North Park? To be the top destination for food and entertainment in San Diego. Focusing on accessibility, safety, and cleanliness. What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? Representation for one of the larger properties and financial institutions in North Park, along with experience and active involvement. What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? The reduced crime makes it more desirable for individuals to visit and businesses to operate. What would change about North Park if you had the chance? Parking is an ongoing challenge.   William Lopez - Alternative Strategies - william@altstrategies.com Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? I currently serve as the President of Board of Directors for North Park. I am interested in continuing to support the organization in the same way i have for the past 3 years. How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley? I am proud of the work we are currently doing and hope to be a part of carrying out our plans for 2024 and beyond. What is your vision for North Park? My vision for North Park is to see every retail space occupied, along with it being a destination for locals and tourists. My vision is to see North Park continue to be recognized as a destination of local businesses supporting one another and giving back to the community. What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? I currently serve as the President for the Board of Directors. My expertise and special skills include public relations, marketing, business management, current board experience. I also managed North Park Main Street when the executive director position was vacant. What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? leadership, vision, business growth, community. What would change about North Park if you had the chance? homeless issues would be more heavily managed.   Willow Parker - George's Camera - lab@georgescamera.com Why do you want to serve on the Board of North Park Main Street? I would love to serve on the board to provide a unique and new perspective. I’m quite passionate about my role in the local photography community and our business, so I’d love to bring that same energy to all of North Park! I think I’d be especially helpful with creating new and exciting events to bring to our neighborhood, as well as my many years of management expertise would help this board run more efficiently and effectively while being mindful of expenditures. How do you think North Park Main Street should serve the business / property owner community more effectivley? I was thrilled to see how quick of a response and an action plan was created when I brought up an issue to Mark and Will last year. They were able to quickly assist our store and their willingness to resolve our issue with such care has left a lasting impact on me. I’d love to be able to continue to help local business in North Park thrive much like they helped us, and I think the first step in the right direction would be to bring more awareness to this program. There are plenty of local property owners who do not know about the resources you offer, or how much they could benefit by being apart of the board! What is your vision for North Park? I’d love to see North Park clean, vibrant and engaging! What expertise or special skills do you possess that would help this board function effectively? As the photo lab manager at George’s Camera, I can lend my printing and photography expertise to marketing and social media. However for as much as my passion is creativity, I also have a great expertise in conflict resolution and business negotiation. I truly enjoy working together with a team to create new strategies, solve issues and execute successful events! What do you like best about the changes that have taken place in North Park over the past decade? I love that North Park has become very walkable and modern, while retaining its unique charm and history. There’s been some great local business additions over the past decade that are not only so fun to work with but who also make it more enjoying to spend my days off here! What would change about North Park if you had the chance? It’s been interesting to watch the community change and our customer’s perspectives’ shift in regards to all of the advancements North Park has undergone. I’ve encountered plenty of negative reactions especially to the removal of the parking along 30th street, however I’ve found that all it takes is some gentle education and listening to their complaints to shift it back to a positive note. I’d love to influence community members perspectives and open their world to the endless possibilities that North Park has to offer. Questions? Contact NPMS at info@northparkmainstreet.com     The voting window for the NPMS Board of Directors has closed. --- ## Access North Park URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/access-north-park/ North Park Parking Garage 3829 29th St, San Diego, CA 92104 OPEN 24 HOURS! Our 4 story parking garage at 3829 29th St. is a safe, well lit, convenient garage that is close to all of North Park’s businesses. Enjoy affordable parking rates from $1 per hour, and $5 daily max 6am-6pm as well as $5 flat rate 6pm-6am. The garage is open 24 hours/7 days week. If you are local resident, you can park there for $45/month. Learn more about our rates below! DAILY FEES $1 Per hour.$5 Daily Max from 6AM-6PM.$5 Flat rate from 6PM-6AM.$10 Lost ticket fee. MONTHLY FEES $45 Local Residents/Individuals.$35 1st Company Parker.$30 Each additional company parker.$20 Keycard fee. Contact Information for Garage CivicSD@aceparking.com 24hr Supervisor Phone 619-724-0450  Parking Validation Are you a business owner who would like to offer parking validation to your customers? The North Park Garage offers an easy and convenient system to set-up parking validation. To get started, email CivicSD@aceparking.com and in your subject line put “Business Name – Parking Validation Order“.  You can order tickets in hour increments (1-hour parking validation ticket, 2 hour parking validation ticket, etc..) and you receive a discount of 25% on the cost of parking. (ie. 1 hour costs $0.75 instead of $1.00) You can also view, download, and print our guides. How to set up parking validation for your business How to offer customers parking validation How customers use parking validation   Kris Moore Kris Moore Don Masse The North Park Parking Garage features large scale public art by local artists Don Masse and Kris Moore. Don Masse is an art educator and practicing artist whose work can be seen on numerous schools and public spaces. For the Garage Art Project, he envisioned a series of images that include figurative and architectural elements from North Park that are interjected with elements of pattern and pixelation. Kris Moore is an accomplished digital color printer and Photoshop expert. The photographs of her work on the garage utilize the pinhole photography technique and sample the North Park neighborhood and streets. Search for: Upcoming Events Jan 9 9:00 am - 10:30 pm Board of Directors Meeting Jun 15 3:00 pm - 7:30 pm North Park Farmers’ Market Aug 12 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm North Park Vegan Food Popup Oct 17 6:30 pm North Park Planning Committee Monthly Meeting Jan 28 11:00 am - 12:00 pm Economic Development Committee Meeting View Calendar Latest News Call for Artist Explore Kick Off Presentation Mid-City GO Soft Launches February 3rd. Small Business and Restaurant Assistance Program Make the Pledge to Shop Small at Shop Local Saturday 2024! --- ## Annual Business Mixer URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/annual-business-mixer/ Join us for the Annual North Park Business Mixer, hosted by North Park Main Street and sponsored by U.S. Bank. This mixer brings together North Park business owners for an opportunity to connect, network, and hear a brief recap of North Park Main Street’s work over the past year, along with what to expect in the year ahead. 📍 The Office Bar📅 April 9🕓 4:00–5:00 PM All North Park business owners are welcome to attend.RSVPs are highly encouraged to help us plan.   --- ## Ribbon Cutting – In Good Faith Tattoo URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/ribbon-cutting-in-good-faith-tattoo/ In Good Faith Tattoo invites the North Park community to join us for our grand opening and ribbon cutting on Sunday, November 23rd. We hope to see you there as we celebrate and support North Park’s small businesses. Plus—the first 25 guests will receive a free t-shirt! Event Details: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: 10:00 AM Celebration: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Location: 3822 Ray St About Us – In Good Faith Tattoo In Good Faith Tattoo is built on the idea of achieving despite the odds not being in your favor. Taking a risk and betting on themselves, our parents made their way to the United States, venturing into a country they knew little about. They took a leap of faith, sacrificing their lives in Mexico & Vietnam to hopefully plant the seeds for something greater for their children. For us, that seed has grown into this shop. Sprinkled throughout our studio are reminders of where we came from, our roots, our culture, our family. Thank you for your support in helping us make them proud! --- ## Trunk N Treat URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/trunk-n-treat/ --- ## Taste of North Park URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/taste-of-north-park-2/ Tickets are on sale NOW! Food tasting | 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM Beverages | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM North Park’s favorite food and drink fest is back and bigger, better, and tastier than ever! Taste of North Park 2025 returns on Saturday, October 4th for an unforgettable day filled with delicious bites, craft brews, cider, kombucha, live music, and boutique shopping, all in one of San Diego’s most creative and flavor-forward neighborhoods! New this year: the Shareable Ticket – perfect for two people to enjoy the day together with one taste ticket and two cups. Tickets: $65 – Food & Drink $50 – Food Only $85 – NEW Shareable Ticket (1 Taste Ticket, 2 Cup limited to 300) --- ## North Park: Community Clean Up! URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/north-park-community-clean-up-2/ Join Us for the North Park Community Clean-Up! We’re coming together to make North Park shine—one block at a time! When: Saturday, July 12thTime: 10 AM – 1 PM Where: North Park Mini-Park Come out and volunteer with your neighbors to help beautify our community. We’ll provide all the supplies you need—and to make your morning even better, we’ve got coffee & donuts waiting for you! Big thanks to our partner Walkabout for supporting this event! Let’s make a difference together. Bring your friends, family, or co-workers—everyone is welcome! RSVP today or just show up ready to help! --- ## Ribbon Cutting – Between Us URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/ribbon-cutting-between-us/ Between Us invites the North Park community to celebrate the grand opening of its opening on Wednesday, July 12th. Don’t miss out on the 10% off your dine in order from 9am-3pm. We hope to see you there!, and an official ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the occasion. Event Details: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: 9:00 AM Celebration: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM About Us – Between Us At Between Us, we believe in crafting experiences that are as authentic as they are delicious. We’re a community-focused hub, driven by a genuine love for quality and collaboration. Our energy is contagious, our approach is approachable, and our curiosity is endless. We’re here to spark conversations, inspire your senses, and build connections that last.Our story is one of collaboration—drawing inspiration from the rich agricultural bounty of San Diego and Southern California, and the artistic energy of our neighborhood. We partner with local farms, coffee roasters, and craft breweries to bring you the freshest seasonal flavors and showcase the creativity of our community.Between Us signifies the bond we aim to create with our guests. It’s about sharing stories, creating memories, and fostering a sense of belonging. We believe that food and drink are powerful tools for connection, and we strive to create an experience that feels like a shared meal among friends.We invite you to join us, to be a part of our story, and to find your place—Between Us. --- ## Honorary Street Renaming: Lucky Lane URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/honorary-street-renaming-lucky-lane/ Join us on Saturday, June 28th, at 10am as we unveil “Lucky Lane” in honor of North Park icon Lucky Wong. We’re proud to partner with Council Member Stephen Whitburn and Tribute Pizza to celebrate Lucky’s legacy by ceremonially renaming a portion of Grim Avenue. Come help us recognize a community legend who left a lasting mark on the neighborhood he loved. --- ## Horizon North Park: Family Fun Day URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/horizon-north-park-family-fun-day/ Get ready for a fantastic day filled with joy and togetherness at Horizon North Park’s Free Family Fun Day! 🎉✨ 📅 Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025⏰ Time: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM📍 Location: Horizon North Park Christian Fellowship, 2901 North Park Way, San Diego, CA 🎨 Activities Include: Free creative crafts 🖍️ Exciting games 🎯 Delicious snacks 🍪 Children’s playground fun 🛝 Community fellowship ❤️ Bring your family and friends for a day of laughter, bonding, and blessings! For more info, call 1-619-220-8580. Don’t miss out!” --- ## Ribbon Cutting – Replay Toys URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/ribbon-cutting-replay-toys/ Join us for the ribbon cutting and grand reopening of Replay Toys Monday, May 12th from 6:00 to 9:00 PM Enjoy food, refreshments, and a fun evening as we celebrate the return of this local favorite. About Replay Toys Boutique  Replay Toys Boutique has been a labor of love for over 14 years, inspired by the joy of play and the need to support our growing family. What began as a way to pass along our children’s outgrown toys—first through yard sales and weekends at Kobey’s Swap Meet—quickly became something bigger. In 2015, we opened our first brick-and-mortar shop on North Park Way, tucked under the neighborhood parking garage. For five wonderful years, we built a community through play, trade, and connection—until the pandemic hit. Taking a much-needed nine-month pause, we traveled, regrouped, and came back stronger than ever. In our next chapter, Replay Toys Boutique reopened on Ray Street, where we thrived for over three years and deepened our ties to the North Park community. Recently, we found an exciting opportunity to expand onto one of the busiest, most vibrant corners in North Park—and we took it! With more room to showcase our ginormous toy collection and host community events, our new space reflects everything we’ve worked toward. We’ve been settling in over the past couple of months, and we’re finally ready to celebrate with a grand opening! Stay tuned—big things are in store, and we can’t wait to keep growing, playing, and trading with you. --- ## Twinkle Nails & Spa- Ribbon Cutting URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/twinkle-nails-ribbon-cutting/ Twinkle Nails & Spa invites the North Park community to celebrate the grand opening of its second location on Sunday, April 27th. The event will feature delicious food, floral arrangements from David’s Daughter, and an official ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the occasion. Event Details: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: 11:00 AM Anniversary Celebration: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM About Us – The Heart Behind Twinkle Nails & Spa Twinkle Nails & Spa was founded by Brian, a former chef who boldly changed careers to pursue a new path in the nail industry. With no prior experience, he rebuilt his confidence from the ground up, facing challenges with resilience, kindness, and a commitment to excellence. As a man in a traditionally female-led field, Brian poured his heart into mastering the craft and creating a space where clients feel seen, remembered, and cared for. His passion transformed Twinkle Nails & Spa into more than a salon — it became a community. In just one year, they’ve earned 5-star reviews on Google and Yelp and were honored as San Diego’s Best Nail Salon in 2024. Thanks to the love and support of their amazing clients, they’re proud to open their second location in North Park. Twinkle Nails & Spa is Brian’s journey of reinvention — a story of second chances, renewed purpose, and community. --- ## Unfork the Planet URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/unfork-the-planet/ Resturant Owners: Farmers are having a hard time right now, and restaurants have the power to support them and restore the climate. Zero Foodprint, a James Beard award-winning nonprofit, is inviting San Diego restaurants to join their upcoming campaign, Unfork the Planet, running from April 7-13. This initiative supports local farmers by funding their transition to regenerative practices. Participating restaurants can join for a low $75 fee, which goes directly into the grant fund. They can either feature a climate-smart dish for the week or pledge $1 per an existing menu item. All participating restaurants will be featured on an interactive map and promoted on social media. Many San Diego businesses have already joined: 31ThirtyOne, Herb & Wood, Herb & Sea, The Fishery, Finca, Wayfarer Bread, Dija Mara, Bivouac, Kingfisher and counting. Zero Foodprint is looking to grow the list! For more information, visit their website or schedule a meeting with Logan, logan@zerofoodprint.org, owner of Collins & Coupe and Tablespoon in North Park, and Operations Manager at Zero Foodprint. --- ## Dining Out For Life San Diego URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/dining-out-for-life-san-diego/ Calling all North Park restaurants! Become a Dining Out For Life 2025 participating location NOW! The San Diego LGBT Community Center open enrollment is now live for new and returning locations for this year’s 19th annual Dining Out For Life San Diego. Last day to register your business is April 1st. Dozens of restaurants, bars, coffee houses, dessert shops, and nightclubs in San Diego will pledge to donate a minimum of 25% of their sales on April 24th 2025 to The San Diego LGBT Center’s health & wellness programs- encouraging over 20,000 patrons to dine out in a meaningful act of giving, and show solidarity and support for the community. Find more information and sign-up today for this amazing fundraiser at Restaurants & Bars: Sign up today! Register: thecentersd.org/DOFL Contact Jen Haase at 619.692.2077 ext. 142 or events@thecentersd.org --- ## Holy Matcha 9th Anniversary URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/holy-matcha-9-yearanniversary/ Date: Saturday, March 8 Time: Doors open at 9 AM Holy Matcha is thrilled to invite the community to a special celebration marking nine incredible years! Here’s what to look forward to: Exclusive Perk: The first 50 guests in line will receive a free $20 gift card with their purchase at the register. Special Highlights: Limited-edition Holy Matcha merch. Exciting matcha drinks, including the debut of the Pistachio Matcha Latte. Fresh matcha pastries. A photobooth running all day to capture the memories. Featured Guests: @cupkate.pastry will offer delicious treats while supplies last—get there before noon! @puppypicnicco will host a photo shoot for all the fur babies, so don’t forget to bring yours along! --- ## Celebrating Success: Women’s Mixer URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/celebrating-success-womens-mixer/ North Park Women Business Owners join us for our annual Celebrating Success: Women’s Mixer! We want to celebrate the strength, courage, and contributions of the incredible women business owners of North Park, honoring their achievements while fostering empowerment and unity for a brighter future—celebrating the success of women entrepreneurs in our community. When: Sunday, March 9th Time: 10-11:30am Location: Bivouac Adventure Lodge – 3980 30th St Please RSVP by March 1st to endure we have enough food and drinks for all. Can’t wait to celebrate with the extraordinary women of North Park! RSVP down below --- ## Enriquez Birrieria – Ribbon Cutting URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/enriquez-birrieria-ribbon-cutting/ Enriquez Birrieria invites all residents to join the celebration of its first anniversary. This event will take place on Sunday, February 23, 2025, and will feature delicious food and a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Event Details: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: 1:00 PM Anniversary Celebration: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM To thank the community for an incredible year, guests will receive a complimentary battered fish taco and their choice of Horchata or Jamaica. Everyone is welcome to take part in the festivities and enjoy a day of fun, food, and celebration. --- ## Cookies on Tap – Mike Hess URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/cookies-on-tap-mike-hess/ Join the delicious and fun experience at Mike Hess! From February 14th – February 23rd, they will be offering craft beer flights paired with Girl Scout Cookies, with a portion of proceeds benefiting Girl Scouts San Diego. This year’s delectable pairings! Caramel deLites® aka Samoas® with Vietnamese Coffee Stout Lemonades® with Raspberry Hop Cloud Hazy IPA Toast-Yay!® with J$ Brown Ale Peanut Butter Sandwich aka Do-si-dos® with Sangria Seltzer Adventurefuls@with Slam Dunkel THIS EVENT IS FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY: All San Diego Mike Hess Brewing locations A portion of sales of our beer and cookie pairing will benefit Girl Scouts of San Diego --- ## Community Cleanup URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/community-clean-up-2/ North Park Main Street x Young Minds In The Community Powered by Walkabout! Meet-up: 10 AM @ North Park Mini ParkAfter-party: 12 PM @ 619 Spirits Let’s come together to keep our neighborhood clean & green! Perks for Volunteers: Free coffee from @parabolacoffee Free lunch at @619spirits One-month premium membership to Walkabout Local Insiders Club Cleanup supplies provided—just bring your energy & a smile! RSVP using the link below! --- ## Two Scientists Walk into a Bar – Mike Hess URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/two-scientists-walk-into-a-bar-mike-hess/ Mama V’s Lumpia 3:30pm – 8:00pm https://www.instagram.com/mama_vz_lumpia/ --- ## North Park Makers Market URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/north-park-makers-market/ Find 35 makers and artists at Mike Hess Brewing, Original 40 Brewing, and U-31 in the North Park neighborhood of San Diego, CA. Bonehead Burgers will be available from 2 PM onward. --- ## Coffee Chat with Mayor Aguirre URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/coffee-chat-with-mayor-aguirre/ We’re thrilled to host our first Coffee Chat of the year featuring Mayor Aguirre from Imperial Beach!   Date: February 12th Time: 10 AM Location: 2948 University Ave Floor 2   These Coffee Chats are designed to encourage meaningful conversations between community members and the leaders serving San Diego County. They also provide elected officials with a valuable opportunity to build stronger connections with communities beyond their immediate districts.   Come enjoy some coffee and great company. Don’t forget to RSVP using the link in our bio! --- ## Rescheduled: Community Yoga at the Mini Park URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/rescheduled-community-yoga-at-the-mini-park/ Get ready to sweat, stretch, and recharge with us at North Park Mini Park! Feel the burn with a powerful Pilates session one month, then find your flow with a relaxing yoga practice the next. All levels welcome—come for the movement, stay for the good vibes and community connection. Upcoming Sessions: • Jan 26 – Yoga • Feb 23 – Pilates • Mar 23 – Yoga What to Bring: • A yoga mat • Water • A positive attitude Suggested Donation: $15–$20 helps keep these classes free and accessible. (Venmo: @DominiqueChapman) 📍 North Park Mini Park 3812 29th St, San Diego, CA 92104 Don’t miss your chance to flow, burn, and connect. Come early to grab your spot—your Sunday reset starts here! Use the link down below to RSVP https://cravecommunity.setmore.com/classes/07e2dd5c-11de-440d-bb12-c06e9d359f3f --- ## Celebration of Life Service for Lucky URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/celebration-of-life-service-for-lucky/ February 22, at 11 am, at First Unitarian Universalist Church 298 W Abor Drive in Hillcrest (Across the Street from UCSD Medical Center). Those in attendance are welcome to bring offerings to place on the altar such as flowers, food, mementos, written prayers, notes of gratitude, etc… If you’re unable to attend no need to send flowers. Instead, you can light a candle/burn incense, and say a prayer/blessing for Lucky. Or you can honor him in symbolic ways such as visiting places where you have shared memories, or doing activities that were meaningful to you both. --- ## Community Yoga at the Mini Park URL: https://northparkmainstreet.com/event/community-yoga-at-the-mini-park/ Get ready to sweat, stretch, and recharge with us at North Park Mini Park! Feel the burn with a powerful Pilates session one month, then find your flow with a relaxing yoga practice the next. All levels welcome—come for the movement, stay for the good vibes and community connection. Upcoming Sessions: • Jan 26 – Yoga • Feb 23 – Pilates • Mar 23 – Yoga What to Bring: • A yoga mat • Water • A positive attitude Suggested Donation: $15–$20 helps keep these classes free and accessible. (Venmo: @DominiqueChapman) 📍 North Park Mini Park 3812 29th St, San Diego, CA 92104 Don’t miss your chance to flow, burn, and connect. Come early to grab your spot—your Sunday reset starts here! Use the link down below to RSVP https://cravecommunity.setmore.com/classes/07e2dd5c-11de-440d-bb12-c06e9d359f3f ---