The San Carlos Community Garden is more than a place to grow fruits and vegetables — it’s a space where young people, families, and neighbors come together to learn, connect, and give back. This summer, student ambassadors spent nine weeks digging into everything from composting and beekeeping to sharing meals and music with the community. Read the reflections of one student, Amelia Kirkegaard, who graduated this year from Patrick Henry and spent the summer as a San Carlos Community Garden youth ambassador, in an article in the Mission Times Courier here.

On Tuesday, we proudly recognized Kathy Coleman Day in the City of San Diego! Kathy has been serving up kindness and community at Brother’s Family Restaurant in Allied Gardens since 1994. From ‘Grandma Jennie’s Pancakes’ to her generous spirit, Kathy has created a true home away from home for San Diegans. My Senior Community Representative, Anthony Hackett, proudly delivered the proclamation to Kathy on my behalf. Thank you, Kathy, for more than three decades of warmth and community!

For years, Ted Ortiz has been out at Pershing Middle School and Gage Elementary with his yellow cart and picker stick, keeping the fields clean and returning lost items like soccer balls and cones. Recently, my Senior Community Representative Anthony Hackett had the honor of presenting Ted with a special commendation for all the great work he has done for our community. Thank you, Ted!

We’re now entering peak wildfire season here in San Diego, and officials are warning that conditions are especially dangerous this year. The most devastating fires in our region’s history — including the Cedar Fire in 2003 and the Witch Creek Fire in 2007 — both struck in October. Please make sure your home has defensible space, your family has a “go bag” ready, and you stay alert when there is heightened fire danger; read more at the City’s ‘Ready, Set, Go’ guide here. Preparation saves lives.