Friends of the Village

Pups on Parade Returns to Carlsbad Village

2009-11-24T12:41:00.000-08:00

Friends of the Village - Closing soon

2009-11-14T13:37:00.000-08:00

Due to changes in ownership, Friends of the Village will soon be closing. We have created a new blog for all things relating to Carlsbad Village. Please join us on Friends of Carlsbad Village www.friendsofcarlsbadvillage.blogspot.com

Your comments, suggestions, and general input are always appreciated.

Carlsbad Village - Cinema Under the Stars

2009-09-10T14:12:00.000-07:00

Join us in Carlsbad Village
at Maffucci Field at the Army and Navy Academy
2605 Carlsbad Blvd.

for four nights of Blockbuster Movies
on the LARGEST Outdoor screen on the West Coast

Friday, September 18 - Academy Award Winning -Batman - The Dark Knight

Saturday, September 19 - Ironman

Friday, September 25 - Night at the Museum - Battle of the Smithsonian

Saturday, September 26 - Academy Award Winning - Slumdog Millionaire

Ride your bike and valet

2009-08-24T15:51:00.000-07:00

Hollywood Outdoor Movies
1119 S Mission Road,
Suite 122
Fallbrook, CA 92028
888-350-DRIVE IN

CONTACT:

John Snyder, (760) 728.0023

The Carlsbad Village Association announces free outdoor movie series on the largest outdoor movie screen in the western United States

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

AUGUST 24, 2009

CARLSBAD, CA – The Carlsbad Village Association and Army and Navy Academy have partnered with Hollywood Outdoor Movies to bring the public a free outdoor movie series entitled Carlsbad Village’s Cinema Under The Stars. The four night series will be shown on the largest outdoor movie screen in the western United States. The screen provided by Hollywood Outdoor Movies measures 52 feet wide and over 4 stories tall. All four events will take place at Army and Navy Academy’s Maffuci Field, located at 2605 Carlsbad Boulevard in Carlsbad, CA. Films will be shown at 8pm on consecutive Friday and Saturday nights September 18 and 19 and September 25 and 26. The Dark Knight & Iron Man will kick off the series’ opening weekend followed by Night at the Museum II & Slumdog Millionaire to close the series.

The event is being sponsored by a variety of local businesses and vendors in order to offer this family friendly event at no charge to the public. Audiences are encouraged to arrive early and bring their own chairs and blankets. Food and non-alcoholic beverages will be allowed on the premises. Vendors will also be onsite selling everything from candy and popcorn to Mexican street tacos and pizza. Locals are encouraged to “go green” by riding their bicycles to the field. A bicycle valet service will be available for a small charge.

All three of the event’s partners hope to see Carlsbad Village’s Cinema Under the Stars become an annual event, and preliminary talks for a series in 2010 have already begun. More information about this year’s series can be found at http://www.hollywoodoutdoormovies.com/events.html.

# # #

2009-08-16T16:46:00.000-07:00

THURSDAYS ON THE COAST / BEGINS AUGUST 27, 5:30 PM A free community visual and performing art walk held the last Thursday of each month throughout the summer in the Village of Carlsbad. The event will host local and regional artists displaying their work throughout the Village, live art demonstrations, and ongoing music performances. Currently looking for more volunteers to be ambassadors throughout the Village, for more information on volunteering see below.WE NEED YOU TO BE A Village Ambassador THIS THURSDAY EVENING FROM 4:30-9PM at... THURSDAYS ON THE COASTWhen: Thursday 8/27/09 Kick-off Event: 5:30-8:30 pm

WE NEED YOUR HELP TO MAKE THIS EVENT A SUCCESS!! Village Ambassadors are needed to:--do an easy set up/break down--give out information--take in information--direct event attendees.

If you can help at this event please contact:
Christy Johnson
760-687-6453 Cell
760-434-2553 Office

2009-08-02T05:43:00.000-07:00

A long standing tradition in the Village of Carlsbad, Art in the Village draws approximately 20,000 visitors every year.
Over 100 local and regional fine artists, in such mediums as oil painting, watercolors, photography, mixed media, new media, classical and contemporary sculpture, as well as jewelry making, woodworking, furniture, pottery, clothing and accessories.

Thursdays on the Coast - Call for Volunteers

2009-07-29T16:45:00.001-07:00

THURSDAYS ON THE COAST / BEGINS JULY 30, 5PM
A free community visual and performing art walk held the last Thursday of each month throughout the summer in the Village of Carlsbad. Its inaugural season and opening night is Thursday, July 30th from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The event will host local and regional artists displaying their work throughout the Village, live art demonstrations, and ongoing music and theatre performances. Currently looking for more volunteers to be ambassadors throughout the Village, for more information on volunteering see below.

WE NEED YOU TO BE A Village Ambassador THIS THURSDAY EVENING FROM 4-9PM at... THURSDAYS ON THE COAST
When: Thursday 7/30/09
Ambassador Meeting: 4-5pm @ New Village Arts on State StreetKick-off Event: 5-9pm

WE NEED YOUR HELP TO MAKE THIS EVENT A SUCCESS!!

Village Ambassadors are needed to:
--do an easy set up/break down
--give out information
--take in information
--direct event attendees.

if you can help at this event please contact: Christy Johnson
760-687-6453 Cell
760-434-2553 Office

Art in the Village - Artists and Artisans in Carlsbad

2009-07-06T15:56:00.001-07:00

For an Artists Prospectus please visit: http://www.kennedyfaires.com/Applications/cbad_app_ac.pdf

2009-05-27T06:30:00.000-07:00

CARLSBAD VILLAGE “FLAVORS OF THE VILLAGE” RESTAURANT TOUR

Sunday, May 31, 2009, 3 – 6pm
Lots of Fun, Lots of Food!

(Carlsbad Village, CA) – Flavors of the Village in Carlsbad will feature 20 of the best places to eat in downtown Carlsbad Village. Participants will be strolling up and down Carlsbad Village Drive, State Street, Grand Avenue and Carlsbad Blvd. on Sunday, May 31, from 3 to 6pm. Limousine shuttle service provided by Palomar Limousines will transport attendees to the outer lying restaurants.

“Come sample our broad array of international foods in the Village” invites Robin Young, Executive Director of the Carlsbad Village Association (CVA), “The Flavors of the Village in Carlsbad offers Irish, French, Mexican, Italian, Vegetarian and, of course, American cuisines – literally something for everyone”.

“Flavors” attendees will enjoy street performers and live music at various locations throughout the Village to add to the festivities. In addition, ArtSurf Art Walk--which runs through June 30—offers event goers extraordinary art to feed their souls while they feast on the culinary delicacies.

Flavors of the Village tickets are $25 and children 12 and under can share a ticket with an adult. There are a limited number of tickets available and they can be purchased at the following CVA member merchants: Michel Petit Spa, HomeLife Village Realtors, Carlsbad Convention and Visitors Bureau, Wesco Pet Supplies. Tickets are also available at the two CVA Farmers’ Markets every Wednesday and Saturday 1-5pm and the CVA offices, 2579 State Street, Carlsbad Village and the participating restaurants.

Participating restaurants include: Beach City Smoothies, Caldo Pomodoro, Carlsbad Chocolate Bar, Dini’s Bistro, El Puerto, Fish House Vera Cruz, Gregorio’s, Hennessey’s, Knockout Burgers, Knockout Pizza, Las Olas, Le Passage, Naked Café, Ocean House, O’Sullivan’s, Pizza Port, Pollos Maria, Senor Grubby’s, Submarina and The Wine Spot.

The CVA is a non-profit organization with over 200 members, dedicated to enhancing and promoting business in the Village of Carlsbad. Presented by the CVA, Flavors of the Village in Carlsbad is another effort to highlight the unique and charming atmosphere of the Village. For more information see the CVA website: www.shopcarlsbadvillage.org or contact Robin Young, CVA Executive Director at 760-434-2553 or email info@shopcarsbadvillage.org.

ArtSurf Kicks off Friday Evening

2009-04-27T09:10:00.000-07:00

Don't miss Carlsbad Village's first ever ArtSurf - a FREE self-guided art walk through Carlsbad Village.

ArtSurf kicks off on MAY DAY, May 1st, 2009 from 5-8 pm. The festivities will kick off at New Village Arts Theatre, 2787 State Street. Participants will recieve their maps and instructions on how to best enjoy the walk.

Several Galleries will be involved, including the Paul Bartyl Gallery (in New Village Arts), Ivanffy-Uhler Gallery, Snyder Art, Lynn Forbes School of Sculpture, Carlsbad Oceanside Art League Gallery, Front Porch Gallery, and Chandlers Gallery and Boutique.

In addition to the many permanent galleries many merchants are opening their shops as phantom galleries including: The Perfect Frame, Amie's Collections, Linda's Gifts, Le Passage French Bistro, Fairen Del, Spa Samudra, HomeLife Village Realtors, and Beach City Smoothies.

ArtSurf will also include original window murals by local artists and Wine tasting at Carlsbad Chocolate Bar, The Wine Spot and Witch Creek Winery.

ArtSurf is free to the public and will continue through June 30th, 2009.

City of Carlsbad Business Forum

2009-04-10T09:59:00.000-07:00

The Carlsbad City Council is seeking input about how the city can help local businesses, foster economic development and create a climate that allows businesses to thrive in tough economic times.

Local businesses are encouraged to share their ideas at a city-sponsored business forum Wednesday, April 15, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the City of Carlsbad Faraday Center, 1635 Faraday Ave.

The free event will include brief opening remarks from Mayor Lewis and other members of the Carlsbad City Council, followed by an opportunity for members of the local business community to share their ideas directly with the city's elected leaders.

The city will use the input in developing policies and initiatives to support a strong local economy.

Reservations are not required. Lunch will be provided. For more information, call (760) 602-2744 or visit www.carlsbadca.gov.

If you are a business owner in the Village please make every attempt to attend this important meeting. If you cannot attend, please feel free to contact Robin Young at the Carlsbad Village Business Association 760-434-2553 or robin@shopcarlsbadvillage.org if you would like to have the CVBA address any issues you may have.

As an added note: We are pleased that this meeting is a positive move on the behalf of the City Council to be of service to the business community. In an effort to build a more effective partnership between business and government the CVBA encourages all attendees to come with positive solutions to any issues that they may want to address.

KSON's Hometown Handshake

2009-04-02T17:12:00.000-07:00

KSON-FM 97.3 Cliff & Company, a country radio station for the North County, has recently recognized and deemed the Village as Carlsbad's Best Shopping. Putting the spotlight on Carlsbad, listeners were asked to log on to the KSON website (http://www.kson.com/) to vote for their favorite things to do and places to go. The marks were tallied and KSON's "Hometown Handshakes" were announced. Listeners picked us!!!

Positive energy is building... let's keep it up!

ArtSurf - Call For Artists and Venues

2009-03-24T14:19:00.000-07:00

The Carlsbad Village ArtSurf committee is looking for local Artists and Village Merchants to participate in our new Village Art Walk. The self-guided walking tour of art will kick-off on May Day, May 1, 2009 form 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm and will continue through June 3oth.

The program will consist of window murals on vacant storefronts, phantom galleries in open space and operating businesses, and Carlsbad Village's many permanent galleries.

We are currently looking for artists to paint windows and show their artwork in shops throughout the Village.

We are also looking for business owners who would like to participate by creating small galleries in their shops (or windows) to promote local artists, and their own businesses. Participating businesses must agree to be open on the evening of Friday, May 1st from 5 pm - 8 pm.

Be on the lookout Tuesday, March 31st as committee members will hit the streets of the Village to elicit participation.

If you are interested in participating, and would like more information, please call 760-434-2553

Carlsbad Village Farmers' Market

2009-03-23T15:06:00.000-07:00

Every Wednesday and Saturday in the
Beautiful Carlsbad Village

1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Rain or Shine

Fresh Local Produce ~ Arts & Crafts
Food ~ Fun ~ Live Music

Carlsbad Village on Facebook

2009-03-23T15:02:00.000-07:00

Want to know what's going on in the Village?

Carlsbad Village Association is now on Facebook. It's a great way to stay informed on upcoming events in the Village, take part in polls and surveys, meet new people with an interest in the Village. We also post photos from our activities and meetings.

Click here to see what's happening in your neighborhood!

Village Voices - Every Thursday Morning

2009-03-23T14:49:00.001-07:00

WHAT: Village Voices, talk to us!
WHEN: Every Thursday Morning
TIME: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
WHERE: Housing and Redevelopment Office~ 2965 Roosevelt Street, Ste. B
PURPOSE: The Carlsbad Redevelopment Agency is hosting an open forum called Village Voices, with the intent of gathering all the players around a table and having a continuous dialogue. Every Thursday morning there will be an open forum for businesses and merchants in the Village to connect, network and partner with others and their local government.

Representatives of the Carlsbad Village Business Association and the Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership will always be on hand to participate in the conversation.

Please join us if you can... come and share your ideas and talk to us!!!

Plant-A-Flower in the Village Day

2009-03-12T14:56:00.000-07:00

Our 1st Annual Plant-A-Flower in the Village Day was a wonderful success. Fourteen "Flower Ambassadors" spread through the Village planting over 100 flowering plants on Roosevelt Street, State Street, Grand Avenue and Carlsbad Village Drive.

The businesses where the flowers were planted were presented with a watering can to ensure that they would maintain the newly planted flowers.

The Carlsbad Village Association plans to have many more beautification projects in the Village throughout the year.

To keep up to date with what's going on in the Village bookmark this page, and follow us on Twitter:http://twitter.com/CarlsbadVillage

Plant-A-Flower in the Village Day

2009-03-11T17:09:00.000-07:00

Plant-A-Flower in the Village

In honor of National Plant-A-Flower Day the Carlsbad Village Association (CVBA) will be hosting the 1st Annual Plant-A-Flower in the Village Day.

If you'd like to join in the fun of planting 100 beautiful flowers throughout Carlsbad Village, be sure to join us on Thursday, March 12th at noon at the parking lot at the corner of Grand & Roosevelt (home of the Farmers' Market).

Special thanks to Farmers' Market vendor Rivera's Garden Treasures for providing the flowers!

Carlsbad Village on Twitter

2009-02-24T18:06:00.000-08:00

Want an constant update of all the fun things going on in Carlsbad Village? We're on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/CarlsbadVillage

We'll keep you in the know...and if you have an event to share, tweet us and we'll help you get the word out!

Funding Request By Carlsbad VIP Goes To City Council Tonight

2008-06-24T22:31:00.000-07:00

The following prepared remarks were presented by Craig Kirk, board member of the Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership, before the Carlsbad City Council during the course of its annual budget deliberation. At the conclusion of Kirk's three-minute statement, Council was presented with four options by staff to consider. However, before any decision can be made on the options offered, Council Members want more information about the organization's tax status and how, if proposed, funds would be administered if a temporary fiduciary agent was employed while the Carlsbad VIP awaits approval of its filing as a 501(c)(3) non-profit.

It is anticipated that the Carlsbad VIP board will soon meet to compile additional information that will likely satisfy requests by Council Members.

June 24, 2008
CVIP address to the City Council
- Follow-up Request for Funding -

Good evening Mayor Lewis and honorable City Council members. My name is Craig Kirk, I reside at 1140 Camino del Sol Circle. I am here this evening as a member of our community and as a member of the BOARD OF DIRECTOR for the CARLSBAD VILLAGE IMPROVEMENT PARTNERSHIP in support of our request for seed funding presented to the city council at the meeting of April 22nd.

I would first like to acknowledge the extensive contributions and commitment of the City of Carlsbad to the Village over the last 25 plus years:
From the development of the Carlsbad Inn
- The Village Fair
- The creation of public parking areas
- Streetscape infrastructure projects
- The development of ‘The Village By The Sea’
- Redevelopment of the Lutheran Home
- Mixed use property on State Street
- Development of the Roosevelt Center
- Façade Improvements
- Beautification Projects
- Senior Care and Affordable Housing.

In Village Public Projects alone you have committed approximately $26 million to date. Since that time the private investment has been approximately 10 fold of the city’s investment.

You have taken the Village from the seedy bars and rundown establishments of the early 80s to the assortment of shops, businesses and restaurants that we have today.

The goal of the Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership is to see those investments prosper and to see the Village flourish. Over time, a short term investment in the CARLSBAD VILLAGE IMPROVEMENT PARTNERSHIP will return long term revenues to the City through increased property values and sales tax revenues. This is especially important given the sun setting of Redevelopment in 2009. The excellent work that the city had done to-date needs to continue. An investment in the in the CARLSBAD VILLAGE IMPROVEMENT PARTNERSHIP is an investment in the future of Village.

At the City Council meeting of April 22nd the CARLSBAD VILLAGE IMPROVEMENT PARTNERSHIP requested $500,000 over a 3-year period for operating expenses, promotions costs and salaries. We have carefully considering the mayor’s constructive feedback of ‘helping ourselves’ and the council’s overall input from the meeting. We are acting on those recommendations by seeking to attain very low cost or free office space and furnishings, donated office equipment (computer hardware and software), donated professional services and holding the headcount to one FTE, the Executive Director, until such time that our business and revenues necessitate the addition of administrative support.

We cannot start-up the organization without the support of the city’s and thecity’s seed money.Our goal is to move as quickly as possible to a self-funded business model. Our research of other like organizations coupled with our best effort estimate is that it will take 3 years to reach that goal. That being said we are also evaluating opportunities to advance that timeline by leveraging other organizations in the Village.

2008 objectives:
- Implementing a ‘Preferred Shopping Card’ program to draw tourists into the Village,
- Using the talents of some our marquee retailers to educate other Village retailers on ‘window merchandising, buying and product placement’
- Working with Village neighborhoods to preserve and promote
- Working with the City and other downtown organizations on programs that stimulating economic development of our community

The CARLSBAD VILLAGE IMPROVEMENT PARTNERSHIP Board of Directors is a dedicated team of volunteers: some with a vested interest in the success of the PARTNERSHIP and some with a vested interest in the success of our community, like myself. In either case, the city and citizens of Carlsbad have much to gain by success of the CARLSBAD VILLAGE IMPROVEMENT PARTNERSHIP. Our board meetings are open to the public and additional information about the Carlsbad VIP can be found at:
http://www.friendsofthevillage.blogspot.com/

Thank you for your time this evening.

Village Development Seminar Draws Wide Business Interests

2008-06-12T11:00:00.001-07:00

The City of Carlsbad, together with the U.S. Small Business Administration, Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership, and the Carlsbad Village Business Association, sponsored the first Village Business Development Seminar at the Carlsbad Village Theater.

Although a relatively small number of individuals came to learn about how to do business in the Village, presentations were rich in content. Debbie Fountain, Housing & Redevelopment Director for the City of Carlsbad welcomed the audience and gave a comprehensive overview of all things business in the Village. When the 90-minute seminar ended, many of those who came remained to ask further questions of the presenters. All in all, it was a great opportunity, and we hope that this will only be the first of many such opportunities in for those interested in bringing their business (or expanding existing businesses) in the Village!

Carlsbad City's Mayor Pro Tem, Ann Kulchin, kicked-off the morning with a few comments and pointed observations about the Village and the City's fiscal standing.

Andrea Korogi, Director of Small Business Development for the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, went through a check-list of 10 critical areas that should be considered during the initial stage of planning to start a business.

Fairen Del owner, Irina Rachow, shares some of her secrets to success, conveying both passion for her business and commitment to the customers who stop to shop at her store.

Carlsbad Village Business Association Executive Director, Robin Young, highlights her organization and what they can do to assist businesses in the Village.

In addition to those mentioned, the audience also heard from Maria Hughes, Business Development Specialist for the U.S. Small Business Association; Richard Zall, owner of Ragz; Julie Baker, president of the Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership.

Carlsbad VIP Gives Nod to Baker, Young

2008-06-10T12:00:00.000-07:00

The Carlsbad VIP Board of Directors elected Julie Baker to succeed Frank Hutchins as President, and Robin Young, Exectuive Director for the Carlsbad Village Business Association, as Vice President.

Congratulations, ladies!

Grant Request Now Before San Diego Board of Supervisors for Village Preferred Shopper Card Program

2008-06-09T14:06:00.000-07:00

The following prepared remarks were given by Julie Baker, acting president of the Carlsbad VIP, before the San Diego County Board of Supervisors on Monday morning, June 9. The VIP is requesting $35,000 through the County Enhancement Grant Program to support a discount shopper card initiative for businesses within the Village of Carlsbad.

Good morning, Chairman Cox and members of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors.

My name is Julie Baker, and I come before you today representing the members of the Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership.

Our newly created organization is a first-time applicant under this process, and what we have proposed is a program that will provide direct and immediate economic stimulus to businesses located in the Village of Carlsbad.

With concerns about where the economy is headed, The Carlsbad Village Preferred Shopper Program will allow participating businesses to provide significant point of purchase discounts to patrons who use the preferred shopper card.

We fully anticipate that, with funding from the County, at least fifty percent of qualified businesses will participate.

The program is simple. Guests at each of Carlsbad’s thirty-seven hotels will receive a card that will entitle them to a minimum of fifteen percent savings on items purchased.

Participating merchants will have a window decal that will identify their place of business as one that honors the card.

You may be asking, “Why should we fund this program?”

My answer is simple: Doing so creates added commerce that not only sustains jobs, but provides for job growth in our area, as well.

Also, people with jobs provide the buying power that is so essential to a healthy County economy, which we all support.

In short, we know that creating and keeping jobs is good for all of us, and through this Shopper Program, we believe that increased revenue from the point of purchase is the key to maintaining a healthy community.

Your support will provide our young organization with the very first program that will give us the traction needed to shore up funding from the City of Carlsbad and eventually, from the very merchants we’re advocating for.

Therefore, whatever financial assistance you can provide the Carlsbad VIP in this first year request for funding will be greatly appreciated by local property and business owners as well as residents in the Village.

On behalf of the Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership, thank you.

Julie Baker, at the podium, presents the Village Shopper Card program to the San Diego County Board of Supevisors

Business Development Seminar

2008-05-23T14:46:00.000-07:00

SMALL BUSINESSES & ENTREPRENEURS WANTED!!

Date: Thursday, June 12th
Time: 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Location: Carlsbad Village Theatre, 2822 State Street

At the seminar you will:

Review the business market strategies
Hear small business success stories
Learn how to navigate through the City when starting a business
Discover where to find business assistance
Hear about different loan programs available
Introduce networking opportunties to businesses & entrepreneurs

Participating organizations: U.S. Small Business Administration, Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership, Carlsbad Village Business Association, and the Carlsbad Redevelopment Agency

For more Information:

Debbie Fountain

City of Carlsbad- Housing and Redevelopment Director

760.434.2815 or dfoun@ci.carlsbad.ca.us

Council Candidate Farrah Douglas Meets CVBA Members

2008-05-20T10:18:00.000-07:00

Carlsbad City Planning Commissioner and City Council Candidate, Farrah Douglas, today appeared before members of the Carlsbad Village Business Association at it's May membership meeting, held at the New Village Arts Theater. The hour-long presentation gave Ms. Douglas the opportunity to share her vision for the Village and to answer questions from the audience.

Farrah fielded many questions from members.

Supervisor Bill Horn Welcomes Carlsbad VIP to San Diego

2008-05-05T16:24:00.000-07:00

San Diego County Fifth District Supervisor, Bill Horn, welcomed three members of the Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership's board of directors to his office this afternoon to discuss and better understand the group's mission, desires and goals.

In addition to Supervisor Horn, the meeting included Chief of Staff, Joan Wonsley, and Policy Advisor, Chris Champine.

The VIP trio also had the opportunity to explain to Horn and his staff the rationale for wanting to create the Carlsbad Village Preferred Shopper Program, and how this would have a direct economic impact in the Village, especially at a time when some of those federal rebate dollars are likely to come into Carlsbad with out-of-town visitors.

If the County approves the group's Community Enhancement Funding application for the next fiscal year, the Carlsbad VIP will have the opportunity in June to appear before the San Diego County Board of Supervisors to officially seek funding to support the Carlsbad Village Preferred Shopper Program.

Pictured left to right, Frank Hutchins, Carlsbad VIP President; Supervisor Bill Horn; Robin Young, VIP board member and executive director of the Carlsbad Village Business Association; Kurt Burkhart, VIP board member and executive director of the Carlsbad Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Village Faire Brings Tens of Thousands to Carlsbad Village For One-Day Event

2008-05-05T07:55:00.000-07:00

Days before tens of thousands descend on the Village of Carlsbad for the bi-annual Village Street Faire, work got underway to spruce up a side wall next to the vacant lot at the corner of State Street and Carlsbad Village Drive.

Faire Day brought out all types, and one that was enjoyed by all who heard him was this fiddler, sitting curbside on Madison Street, leisurely playing his favorite tunes.

The day was simply perfect. The heat was kept at bay, sun and blue sky prevailed through most of the afternoon, and everyone seemed to enjoy what has been dubbed, America's Largest One Day Street Fair!

Local sculpting artist, Lynn Forbes, was on hand, doing what she does best! Lynn and her husband have opened a sculpting gallery in the Village Faire Shopping Centre.

And, what's a Village Faire without the food? There was plenty in the food court, which is in the same location as the Carlsbad Farmers' Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The tri-tip barbecue sandwiches have become nearly tradition for anyone who regularly attends the twice yearly event.

For more on the Village Faire, see CARLSBAD: Throngs flock to downtown street fair

Carlsbad VIP Pitches Carlsbad City Council For Support

2008-04-22T22:10:00.000-07:00

Tonight, the Carlsbad VIP was formally introduced to the Carlsbad City Council, as the organization's president, Frank Hutchins, led the mayor and council members through a presentation that detailed both the challenges and opportunities for partnership opportunities with the City. All board members and many from the original working committee were on hand to show their support.

After considerable discussion, the council agreed to have staff prepare a white paper and return for further consideration in the future. Hutchins assured the mayor and council that he would work with the acting city manager and staff to provide assistance, where needed.

Frank Hutchins explains the VIP's mission to the Carlsbad City Council.

Mayor Lewis, together with Council Members Ann Kulchin and Julie Nygaard, listen to the ten minute presentation by the Carlsbad VIP. Robin Young, Executive Director of the Carlsbad Village Business Association, provides support in Hutchins' presentation.

Carlsbad resident and former Carlsbad City Planning Commissioner, Jeff Segall, speaks in support of the Carlsbad VIP. While as Chairman of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce, Segall initiated the Downtown Enhancement Task Force, which helped lead the way for the eventual creation of the Carlsbad VIP.

Michael Burg, staff writer for the San Diego Union-Tribune, provided coverage on the evening's presentation, "Downtown business group wants $500,000 'seed money' from city."

(Council Members Matt Hall and Mark Packard voluntarily recused themselves from the presentation and discussion, due to property interests each has in the Village.)

Carlsbad VIP Unveils Plan to Enthusiastic Public Audience

2008-04-11T21:19:00.000-07:00

As a prelude to an upcoming presentation by the Carlsbad VIP before the Carlsbad City Council, an early morning audience of 63 people listened to Frank Hutchins, Carlsbad VIP President, explain the organization's strategic goals.

The audience engaged and one participant offered a motion that was unanimously approved and accepted to give thumbs up to the Carlsbad VIP's plan that will be heard by the Carlsbad City Council on April 22.

The questions were many as Hutchins fielded one after another. Suypport for the Carlsbad VIP was in the air!

Carlsbad VIP Kick-off Meeting

2008-03-31T15:37:00.000-07:00

Join the Revitalization Efforts
for Carlsbad Village

Meet the new Board of Directors of the
Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership
known as
Carlsbad VIP

Friday, April 11, 2008
7:30 - 9:00 a.m.
New Village Arts Theatre
2787 B State Street, Carlsbad

• Share your ideas for the Village
• Review the recently completed business plan that will be
presented to the City Council on April 15th
• Learn about the new Carlsbad VIP committees that you can join to get involved
• Find out about new developments and opportunities in the Village

Please RSVP to
Andrea Korogi , akorogi@carlsbad.org, (760) 931-8400

3 of the Rare Kind Spied in the Village

2008-03-09T21:00:00.000-07:00

What's the possibility, other than in a collector's club or car show, that 3 DeLoreans would be parked side-by-side, at the Village Faire shopping center? All three looked to be in great condition. Just one of those rare occurances that was worth taking note of. And, lunch was at Gregario's was a treat, as always!

Carlsbad VIP Submits Grant Funding Request to San Diego County

2008-03-03T15:54:00.001-08:00

Today the Carlsbad VIP filed its first grant funding application with the San Diego County Board of Supervisors. If approved, the Carlsbad VIP will have funds needed to roll out the Carlsbad Preferred Shopper Program, where up to one-half million shopper discount cards will be distributed over a 12-month period to create direct economic stimulation in the Village.

The amount requested is $35,000, and the Carlsbad VIP is hopeful that Supervisor Bill Horn and his colleagues will approve this first year funding request for the organization. The San Diego County Board of Supervisors will review all submissions under the Community Enhancement Grant Program and notify applicants sometime this summer as to whether they have been approved for funding.

In the meantime, the Carlsbad VIP continues to fine tune its business plan in preparation of its appearance before the Carlsbad City Council in the coming months.

(Carlsbad VIP board member, Robin Young (r), submits grant funding application to the Clerk's Office on Monday)

Poll Indicates Top Objective for Carlsbad VIP

2008-01-03T09:13:00.000-08:00

When asked the question in our first of several blog polls, "What Do You Believe Is The Most Important Objective For the Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership?" this is how you responded:

0% - Provide Village leadership
33% - Create synergy for change
66% - Recruit new businesses

Thanks for taking the time to give us your opinion!

Happy New Year

2008-01-01T19:32:00.001-08:00

Welcome to 2008, a New Year that brings a tremendous sense of anticipation for what will occur in the Village. There are some new projects currently underway and some new ones yet to get started. Check out what's going on across the street from Pizza Port ... just down a few yards from Beach Smoothies.

There's also a city council election in November. With candidates already lined up to fill one open seat, this guarantees to be a long campaign season that will give Carlsbad voters some excellent opportunities to meet and get to know who each of the candidates are.

Make it a great year in 2008!

Merry Christmas to All!

2007-12-25T16:55:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of this holiday season, best wishes to all for a very Merry Christmas and may the coming year bring good health, happiness and prosperity to each of you.

We couldn't let this special day slip by without some fun, so go ahead, check out this special Christmas song, provided for your enjoyment!

The Village Gazebo Leaves, Part 1

2007-12-11T20:24:00.000-08:00

Although December 6 was an eventful day in the Village, few paid note. For, on that day, the Gazebo, which has been a fixture on Washington Street since the 1970s, came down. Unlike the hoopla that often accompanies the demolition of towering structures in Las Vegas and elsewhere, the only crowd the Gazebo drew was the small number of workers who were there to dismantle it.

Over the last several years, the Gazebo fell victim to those who have not respected its rich history; a history that included weddings, receptions, family get-togethers, and more. However, there is a strong following of folks in our community who rallied and have helped to start a new and exciting next chapter in the life of our Gazebo.

Thanks to the Hi-Noon Rotary Club, and others who rallied to save the Gazebo, a concerted effort paid off when, in November, the Carlsbad City Council voted to have the Gazebo moved to the grounds of McGee House. Hurray! The Gazebo will have a new home in the Village. We expect the entire process - refurbishing and structural mounting - to take about a year.

If you are interested in being a part of the Gazebo's renaisance, please contact us at, friendsofthevillage@gmail.com.

A huge and heartfelt thanks to John Simons. You're a hero; thanks a million!

Carlsbad VIP Elects Officers, Charts Direction

2007-12-06T20:34:00.000-08:00

The Board of Directors for the Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership, under the leadership of newly elected officers, has already begun the budgeting process that will outline the financial requirements for a successful first year of operation. Also, the Board is reviewing the role of the four standing committees, as outlined in the Carlsbad VIP bylaws.

Elected for a one-year term are; Frank Hutchins, President; Julie Baker, Chair-Elect, Laura Kurner, Secretary; Al Wanamaker, Treasurer.

Working together with the Board is Kennedy Smith. She will lend her years of experience where she helped guide start-up Main Street organizations throughout the United States. It is expected that Smith will soon file paperwork to secure a not-for-profit tax status for the Carlsbad VIP.

A Special Thanks

2007-12-03T13:55:00.000-08:00

A special thanks is given to the following Carlsbad organizations that provided funding for the Carlsbad Community Christmas Tree in the Village - Hi-Noon Rotary Club, The Rotary Club of Carlsbad, The Carlsbad Village Business Association, and the Carlsbad Convention & Visitors Bureau.

So many good things have already been said the day following the tree lighting festivities at the Village Faire, yesterday. Again, thanks for helping to make this possible!

There's still so much more coming to the Village in the weeks before Christmas. Be sure to check out the post on November 28, "Holiday Events Now Underway in the Village!"

Joy to the Village, Our Tree Is Bright!

2007-12-02T19:53:00.000-08:00

It was a great way to spend a December afternoon, with song and dance, Santa and his helper, and plenty of cookies for all to enjoy. Carlsbad artist, Lynn Forbes, sculpted Santa while the kids looked on.

And, like last year, the community was entertained by the Carlsbad's youngest vocalists. What a perfect way to start the Christmas & Holiday Season.

The Carlsbad High School Lancer Dancers kept everyone glued to their seats with their award winning spins, twists, jumps while maintaining those million dollar smiles!

The countdown to lighting the Christmas tree had to yield until the very last performance had ended and applause erupted.

And, as the crowd watched in wonder as the lights to the Carlsbad community Christmas tree went on, Santa's helper flashed a quick smile, as if to say, this day couldn't have been any better!

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanuka & Seasons Greetings to All!

Photos provided by Kurt Burkhart

Village Faire Readies for Carlsbad's Christmas Tree!

2007-11-28T16:52:00.000-08:00

We knew that it was to arrive between 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. yesterday afternoon and, like clockwork, the freshly cut Noble Fir from Riverside County arrived on time!

They tugged, pulled and presto, the tree was on 12 legs, making its way to where it will stand through the Christmas and holiday season at the Village Faire Shopping Center.

After standing the tree upright, the crew clipped away the twine that held and protected the long branches that will soon be adorned with beautiful ornaments.

Robin Young, CVBA Executive Director, and others stand by to give an approving nod to the crew from Temecula that delivered the Village Christmas tree.

And, to see the crew in motion, just click on, below!

Photos provided by Kurt Burkhart

Holiday Events Now Underway In The Village!

2007-11-28T16:37:00.000-08:00

Many storefronts and other businesses not just in the Village, but throughout Carlsbad, as well, have enthusiastically agreed to place this poster in their window or on premises for customers and window shoppers to see. Click on the image for a larger, more readable version. Come out and support these holiday events that officially kicked off, today!

Carlsbad Village Business Association & Merchants Bring Holiday Cheer To The Village

2007-11-26T20:26:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the Carlsbad Village Business Association, the Village is starting to look at lot more like Christmas! It was great reading this morning's story in the North County Times about how businesses are lining up to have their windows painted by artists, Alli Thoeni. I walked the Village late this afternoon to get a first-hand inspection of each and every painted window. They're each different, and very creative. Can't wait to see which window wins 'The People's Choice!'

Special thanks to the Carlsbad Village Business Association for working hard to bring fun into the Village this holiday season!

Photo credit: Jamie Scott Lytle, Staff Photographer, North County Times

Visitor's Center Gets Holiday Scrub Down

2007-11-20T20:54:00.001-08:00

As Village businesses get dressed up for the holidays, the Executive Director for the Carlsbad Convention & Visitors Bureau, Kurt Burkhart, was caught washing down - top to bottom - the Historic Santa Fe Train Depot this afternoon. Word has it that its the first real bath for this building this century! The building was cleaned in preparation for some window painting, garlan and lights that will adorn our Visitor's Center.

Photo credit: Robin Young, Executive Director, Carlsbad Village Business Association

Mayor, Council Support Suggested Changes to Development Standards for the Village

2007-11-07T09:19:00.000-08:00

After years of study, long debate and a series of public hearings before the Carlsbad City Council, Mayor Lewis and Council Members Ann Kulchin and Julie Nygaard last night agreed to support a slightly modified version of the proposed new development standards, while keeping an eye on maintaining the ambience of our Village and, at the same time, allowing for responsible and managed development.

For more on this, coverage is provided in both the San Diego Union-Tribune and the North County Times.

Thank you, Mayor Lewis, Mayor Pro Tem Kulchin and Councilwoman Nygaard for your leadership and support on this very important issue!

Carlsbad VIP Board Holds Inaugural Meeting!

2007-11-01T18:51:00.001-07:00

Its been more than 6 months in the making and, this afternoon, the newly installed board of directors of the Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership kicked off its first meeting in the Village. Today's agenda was light, which gave directors the opportunity to introduce themselves to board colleagues and to set future meeting dates. The board deferred on the election of officers until their next meeting on November 13.

Future meetings of the Carlsbad VIP board of directors will be held on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Until the board secures funding that will allow the Carlsbad VIP to operate under its own roof, meetings will continue to be held in the City Housing & Redevelopment Agency conference room, located at 2965 Roosevelt Street in the Village.

Congratulations, guys!

Photo: Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership board of directors, left-to-right, Al Wanamaker, Frank Hutchins, Robin Young, Ted Owen, Debbie Fountain, Craig Kirk, Julie Baker, Kurt Burkhart, Laura Kurner, Lance Schulte (not pictured, Mary Bressi)

Carlsbad VIP Announces First Board of Directors

2007-10-10T09:05:00.000-07:00

The Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership has appointed its first Board of Directors. We are pleased to announce the following individuals who will serve on the Board:

- LAURA KURNER, Representative for Arts/Culture

- JULIE BAKER, Carlsbad Resident

- FRANK HUTCHINS, Representative for Lenders/Investors

- ALAN WANAMAKER, Representative for a Village Service Business

- MARY BRESSI, Representative for a Village Retail Business

- CRAIG KIRK, General Member at Large

- KURT BURKHART, Representative for the Carlsbad Convention & Visitors Bureau

- TED OWEN, Representative for the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce

- ROBIN YOUNG, Representative for the Carlsbad Village Business Association

- DEBBIE FOUNTAIN, Representative for the City of Carlsbad

- LANCE SCHULTE, Representative for the North County Transit District

Stay tuned in for the latest on Carlsbad VIP activities and sub-committee start up dates.

Board of Directors Nomination Applications

2007-08-13T08:06:00.000-07:00

The Carlsbad VIP is inviting nominations for its first Board of Directors. The Board will consist of nine members and will have representatives from the following categories: property owner/investor/lender/financial; resident; art/theatre/culture; services; Village retail/business owner; general at-large; Carlsbad Village Business Association; Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce;
and Carlsbad Convention and Visitors Bureau. Representatives from North County Transit District and the City of Carlsbad shall serve as non-voting ex-officio board members.

Nomination applications are due no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, September 14th.

Please access the following documents for further details:

http://courtney.enriquez.googlepages.com/CarlsbdVIPBoardAnnouncement.pdf

http://courtney.enriquez.googlepages.com/Boardinformationform_1.pdf

Curtain Call Countdown!

2007-06-14T14:24:00.000-07:00

Carlsbad has been waiting patiently to have a first-class performing arts venue in the Village, and now we're only days away from that happening.

Keep your eyes peeled over the next week for this 1/2 page ad that will appear in four issues of the North County Times. Starting Friday (tomorrow), followed by Sunday, Wednesday and Thursday, readers will learn that its okay to shout, Bravo! Especially nice, the Thursday edition will carry this ad in all 9 papers published by the North County Times. That's some 30,000 home subscriptions throughout the region.

The wait is nearly over ...

The Ball Is Now Rolling Down State, Grand and Elsewhere!

2007-06-07T14:05:00.000-07:00

The Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership (VIP) met last week and immediately dove into enthusiastic discussion on some very exciting programs that are slated to get underway in the Village over the next several months.

Jodie Dickson, owner of the Poached Pear, has taken the lead in creating, "First Fridays of Summer," starting in July and running through September. We'll soon hear more from Jodie about this very new and extremely exciting summer evening program. This could very well be the beginning of an annual seasonal event; go, Jodie!

Introducing a fresh look to banners in the Village caught the excitement of everyone and preliminary work is now underway to see what other cities have rolled out, especially in the neighboring communities of Oceanside and Encinitas. Lamppost banners could be a huge promotional opportunity for everyone. It's worked elsewhere, so why not in the Village?

And, all eyes are on the New Village Arts Theatre, as performers will bring to the theatre on June 23, Sam Shepard's, True West. We hope everyone will jump on board and support this exciting artful addition to the Village.

Previews on June 21 and 22 only $15!

Village Ambassador Bids Farewell

2007-06-03T08:24:00.000-07:00

For more than 30 years, Carlsbad resident, Barbara Brill, knew just about everything there was to know about her city. As a local reporter, she brought to life many interesting and, sometimes, unknown aspects about Carlsbad and her beloved Village. Now, as she charts a new course to spend time with her grandchildren in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Barbara will be missed and remembered as one of our dearest friends. Best wishes, Barbara, from your Village friends!

Barbara still maintains her email at, bbrill2@juno.com.

We Have A Name, and More!

2007-05-17T10:31:00.000-07:00

This morning, the interim working group chalked up two major accomplishments; creating the name of what this new organization will be called and approving a mission statement. A number of other organizational issues were addressed, such as reviewing existing bylaws of several "main street" organizations, articles of incorporation, budgets, and so on.

The Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership - Carlsbad VIP - is a name that caught the imagination and excitement of all. Can you imagine the marketing and promotional fun that can be had by using, VIP? Having a great name is important, and we believe the name selected absolutely captures the essence of what we are working to achieve.

Crafting a mission statement can often take hours, but in the case of this morning's meeting, we had it completed and approved, even with discussion, in record time! So, here's the mission statement for the Carlsbad Village Improvement Partnership: "We are committed to creating a vibrant coastal village through collaborative actions that enhance the vitality of our businesses, welcome visitors, sustain the health of our residential neighborhoods, and promote a safe and cohesive community."

The interim working group will meet again, May 31st.

By the way, go ahead and share this Blog with your friends!

The Future Is Now

2007-05-15T22:06:00.000-07:00

The familiar wig and baseball card shops have given way to a new mixed-use project on South State Street. No word yet on who the retail tenant will be. If you haven't been by to see what's going on, take some time over the weekend to do so!

With Sleeves Rolled Up, A Working Group Begins!

2007-05-15T16:43:00.000-07:00

Following the March 28, 2007 executive summary presentation by Kennedy Smith of the Clue Group before three groups of interested and concerned Carlsbad residents, an interim working group was created to move into the next phase of "transformation visioning" for The Village. Some 15 local residents, each, of whom, bring different and very diverse points of view as members of this interim working group. They will collaborate with Kennedy Smith to achieve an atmosphere of collective action that will eventually lead to the creation of what might be called, a Carlsbad main street organization. These individuals represent local community-based organizations, retailers, property owners, housing & redevelopment, arts and culture, developers, residents and financial institutions.

Members of this interim working group include John Simons, Debbie Fountain, Don Schempp, Mario Monroy, Peter Gordon, Kurt Burkhart, Sandra Holder, Sarah Marquez, Courtney Enriquez, Jodi Dickson, John Prieto, Lance Schulte, Leo Pacheco, Andrea Korogi, Robert Richardson and Robin Young.

Our next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 17th. We'll keep you updated, and we hope that you will come to this blog frequently and share your comments along the way!

Stay tuned, and thank you!