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"Going Out of Business"  It's a sign of the times. The challenges small business owners face during this recession are brutal. I have enormous respect for Nicki Starr, the owner of "Civil D", as we have loved to call her boutique clothing store at 4S Commons, for over five years. Even though the doors won't close for a little while, it will be a sad day when it happens.

The closing of a business in our community is not a good thing. Small businesses like Nicks' are the economic engine in a capitalist economy that make this great country run. They provide employment, taxes, and transfer of commerce. Most people do not realize all the regulations, permits, insurance, rent, and other challenges placed in a small business owners' path. If you can navigate your way through them, you might stand a chance of survival. It does not mean you will necessarily be profitable. And in fact, the vast majority of small businesses actually fail.

I was thinking about the challenges Nicki faced, when I drove by her store this morning.  I was really, "bummed". I tried to put my finger on, "why" it seemed so rotten. I then thought about how life would be different without Civil D in 4S Ranch. Where was Theresa, Yolanda, and most of the community going to find cool clothes at a great price? Civil D was the alternative. It was "The bomb" for clothing, and jewelry. But the big picture beyond the material items says so much more.  (continue)   

San Diego Soccer Club (SDSC) is a non-profit, 501(c) 3, youth soccer organization that operates both recreational and competitive leagues. Based in the North County Inland area of San Diego in the communities of Rancho Penasquitos, Rancho Bernardo, and 4S Ranch. San Diego Soccer.  {flyer}

 One of the best lots in all of 4S Ranch! This exquisite cul-de-sac home is within walking distance to 3 Award-wining Poway Unified Schools. You will be amazed by the privacy and beauty that this 4S Ranch home has to offer. Enjoy gorgeous panoramic views of the preserved open spaces and 4S Ranch Trails."    {more photos} 

Jerome's Furniture Helps Fund Del Sur Elementary School Program

Donation brings critical funds to outfit school with engineering class supplies

Del Sur Elementary School will implement the EiE program this spring. Students will engage in many activities from replicating an artifact to designing knee braces. {read more}   

Active Parenting of Teens Workshop  January 26 - February 29 {details}   

Did you know that 1 out of every 3 homeless people is a teenager?  

In fact, San Diego alone has over 3,000 homeless teenagers on the streets. If they do make it to a shelter, the most requested item from homeless teens is jeans. Help Del Norte's KIN CLub and ASB with your donation of gently used jeans.  Bins will be set up outside DNHS library. The drive will last from January 19th-February 10th.   

SAT PREP COURSE

Sundays 4:00-7:30 pm / January 29-March 4

Includes Mock Examination

{get flyer} 

NEXT SAT TEST MARCH 10, 2012 

Get the inside scoop on what's about to hit the market.  The homes on the Shay Sneak Peak  list are upcoming listings that we soon be available.  Wanna peak?  Give us a call.  858-449-7355 

Upcoming Spring Listing    

Available in April     

Culdesac Home with a HUGE LOT!  Beautifully Upgraded on south side of 4S Ranch - Prime Location.   Plan your move NOW!   

(From Retail to Racetrack continued)

I was still thinking about the, "big picture" later in the day, when I

saw a good deal of local traffic going in and out of her store. My

first thought was, "Where were all those customers before?" Were they at North County Fair or did they go to Walmart? Why is there not more support for our local businesses and their owners, who risk everything? Brave entrepreneurs who don't have the safety net of a bi-weekly check and benefits from a government job or a large company.   They strive to earn a living from the sweat of their brow and endure the stress of sometimes borrowing to make their employees payroll while they receive nothing.  I wish those people would have shopped more frequently at Civil D long before the sign went up.   

Then I realized what bummed me out the most. Its her good karma. I am going to miss Nicki. Those of you that know her, know what I am talking about. Has she never not smiled when she saw you? Have you never felt better after going to see her at her store, regardless if you bought something or not? It's funny, but she honestly reminds me of my old Honda 90 motorcycle. I loved that motorcycle. Though my friends claimed it was a moped, it was not. It was a MOTORCYCLE! It was dependable, economical, full of energy and very time I saw it, rode on it, or even thought about it, it bought a big smile to my face. Just like Nicki.

So all you local shoppers call your friends and get out there and help America. Shop at Civil D and clear those racks! It is great stuff at unbelievable prices! When you are in her store be sure take a moment and thank Nicki for what she has done. I promise the good karma will rub off! 

Sincerely,   

Ray & Theresa Shay