It has now been one year since the economy skid to record lows and we elected a new government to lift us back to the dream that we all thought we were entitled. Though our investments were diminishing, we had renewed hope for a better tomorrow. The Gaslamp Quarter Association had been planning for a downturn for years (no, we didn’t know it would be like this) by putting away surplus dollars. This foresight allowed the GQA the opportunity to launch its 2008 Holiday Program right as people were coming to grips with the realities of the recession. Building lighting and three new events coined “friend-raisers” brought out record numbers where other areas were cutting back hours and staffing. This year the holidays are back and better than ever in the Gaslamp Quarter. It all started in October and if you missed it, we saw the Gaslamp officially make October the start of the holiday season with its fall promotional program. It all kicked off with the Padres Fan Appreciation weekend sponsored by the Gaslamp Quarter Association and really gained momentum with the first annual Fifth Avenue Auto Showcase. We have had zombie walks, haunted houses, custom décor, patio promotions and, or course, Monster Bash. As you read this, crews are hard at work installing the millions of LED lights in the trees throughout the quarter. Building on last year’s success, we will bring the celebration down to street level this year by illuminating the trees and decorating the storefronts in what has become San Diego’s urban holiday destination. Of course, the events will be back this year: Blue Christmas, Thursday, Dec. 10; Holiday Pet Parade, Sunday, Dec. 13; and the Poinsettia Bowl Band March, Monday, Dec. 23. There are many more surprises planned like the Chargers 50th Anniversary Block Party on Friday, Nov. 27, so you don’t want to miss a day or evening for that matter. Speaking of evenings, you have to remember to make your New Year’s Eve plans early this year. If current trends are to be trusted, you want to start talking to your favorite nightclub or restaurant now, before all of the prime locations are filled. That goes the same for that perfect Gaslamp Quarter hotel room. There is no better way to welcome the New Year than a scrumptious late night snack and walking to your hotel for a romantic snuggle. Definitely beats arguing with the taxicab driver over the fare or even worse, navigating the freeways yourself. For more information about Holidays in the Gaslamp Quarter, visit www.gaslamp.org or contact the Gaslamp Quarter Association at (619) 233-5227. Jimmy Parker is the executive director of the Gaslamp Quarter Association.