Once you take a break from something, it really is hard to get back in the habit.  This blog has been lingering out there, hovering and waiting until some brilliance pops into my head. But recently, I think the brilliance has been blocked by a few other things shaping my thoughts. So, in effort to kickstart my creative juices, I have resolved to type out all of the community affairs I have my little fingers in. And as a bonus, I have included some “take action” notes on how you too can get involved, because sharing is caring.

San Diego Music Thing: Friday & Saturday, September 9-10

An annual 2-day music conference taking place at the historic Lafayette Hotel in North Park. Like a mini-SXSW, the North Park Music Thing organizes panels, workshops and performances helping to reveal relevant resources, trends and news pertaining to the music industry today and specifically to San Diego’s music scene.

This year, I’m aiding in recruiting and assigning volunteers to evening roles… primarily production (making sure the acts stay on time) and door (collecting money).  If you are interested in helping out and seeing some cool shows,  sign up to volunteer. If you want to attend, buy your tickets now.

Girl Scout’s Urban Campout adult fundraiser: Friday, September 16

Girl Scout’s annual gala that is more of a dress up party than a formal affair takes place at in the transformed headquarter’s parking lot at the north end of Balboa Park. This year’s theme is “Hooray for  Hollywood: Casting Call… Characters Wanted” encourages guests to dress as their favorite movie character. Big names in San Diego as well as many of our community volunteers love to attend this event, bidding on auction items,  playing silly games and dancing the night away.

You can usually find me backstage pushing the mayor and Carol LeBeau on stage. I enjoy managing the stage for this event, but I’m looking forward to the day I can attend. You should go, it is a wild night where you can meet some of the most down-to-earth movers in San Diego.

Classics 4 Kids Ethan Bortnick benefit concert: Sunday, September 25

My newest involvement, Classics 4 Kids focuses on  music education for elementary school students through professional orchestra concerts and integrated arts curriculum. The benefit concert next month is something of the likes you only see in movies. Ten-year old piano sensation Ethan Bortnick makes history as the youngest musician, composer, and entertainer ever to headline a national concert tour! Pretty cool. At ten, I think I was learning the recorder/Flutaphone.

As a board member for Classics 4 Kids, I have been helping them promote this event and getting the word out about their amazing program. This is a good chance to step out of your usual date night experience and try this unique experience while benefiting a great cause. I will be there, will you?

North Park Toyland Parade and Holiday Fair: Saturday, December 3

The Toyland Parade is heading into it’s 48th year of Santa and fun holiday spirits cruising down University to the crowds of families and neighbors lining the street. After the parade, a holiday fair in the back of the Birch Theatre allows you to meet Santa and get a little holiday shopping done.

Chairing the parade and holiday fair committee allows me to continue to give love back to North Park in the season when I’m not planning the North Park Festival of Arts. You can start your holiday cheer now by donating or convincing friends (or a local business/organization) to sign up to be in the parade.

Man,  I hope that helped relieve some space in my head. Watch this space for (hopefully) more creative posts in the (near) future.