With overflowing hearts, we are delighted to announce the arrival of our darling daughter, Zara Alejandra Farjood Campillo! Our radiant baby was born on January 9, 2026 at 7 lbs, 6 oz, and 19.68 inches.

We will never be the same and we will always love you. We are in awe of you, vow to protect you, and will support you in becoming whom you wish to be. God bless you, baby girl.

Thank you to our care team at Sharp Mary Birch, and our friends, family, and community for your compassion and support. Rafa is embracing his new role as an affectionate big brother, and he has taken to strumming notes on his ukulele to soothe his little sister. We are overwhelmed with gratitude and filled with hope for the future.

❤️,
Nadia and Raul

Paid Parking in Balboa Park Not Quite Working Out

I’ve been an outspoken opponent, since the beginning, of paid parking in Balboa Park for a multitude of reasons. A recent comment, left by a disgruntled patron of the park, on my Instagram perfectly captured the core of my argument: “I have zero reason to go to balboa park and spend what little money I get from my...job and after I pay my ridiculous rent. Why pay for parking? I would have spent money on attractions instead. Now I’ll spend none.” That Instagram user surmised what I feared many people would do—not go at all.

Last week, San Diego news outlets reported empty lots on weekends and poor admissions on even the busiest days, such as free Tuesday. While it is still too early to draw big conclusions, I’m disappointed that my concerns regarding accessibility to the park and the wellbeing of institutions within Balboa Park, are being realized.

As I mentioned on my interview with Fox 5, I will continue to use my role at Chair of Economic Development and Intergovernmental Relations to demonstrate to my colleagues that the data does not support paid parking in Balboa Park as a reliable source of income for our budget deficit, at least not enough to make it worth ostracizing low-income, middle-income and San Diego County patrons.

What You're Saying

“Agree on your downtown parking fee proposal. This city council is really sticking it to the citizens of San Diego. Parking fees downtown, parking fees at the zoo, parking fees at Balboa Park, and now fees for trash pickup... Please continue to support ending parking fees at the Park. I’ve quit going to Balboa Park because of them. I predict that the tourist income the council is counting on will not be what they expect. I predict hotels will start running buses to the park. The fee is excessive. Thanks for listening.” -Martha

Hi Martha—thank you for writing with your feedback. I’m grateful for your support and thoughts on recent fees, and I’m sorry to know that they are keeping you from visiting Balboa Park. Keep voicing your opinion, as public sentiment is a powerful influence.

Childcare Providers Strained by Recent Federal Actions

This week, the San Diego Union Tribune put a spotlight on the fear and strain that childcare providers in San Diego are facing with President Trump’s recent unsubstantiated accusations of fraud and his action to freeze $10 billion in funding.

The villainization and scapegoating of our Somali-American populations is unlawful, immoral, and a deep blow to our already strained childcare workforce. Nobody should have to go to work in fear. Every parent should be able to leave their children with the knowledge that they are safe and cared for.

Childcare is not just critical to our economy's health and productivity. These childcare providers are the backbone of our communities and deserve our dignity and respect.

I stand with my colleagues in condemning the Trump Administration's latest attack on our communities.

SDFC, Mikey Vargas Agree to Multi-Year Contract Extension

Let’s go, SDFC!

Thrilled to hear that SDFC extended its contract with Mikey Vargas, who led us through our incredible inaugural season. SDFC has a bright future as a top team in the MLS, in large part thanks to Mikey’s expertise and investment in building something big.

Congratulations, Mikey! Looking forward to watching you coach this upcoming season and many more.

Sincerely,

Welcome, Zara!

Paid Parking in Balboa Park Not Quite Working Out

What You're Saying

Childcare Providers Strained by Recent Federal Actions

SDFC, Mikey Vargas Agree to Multi-Year Contract Extension