By Dhawal Kataria, AICP, RSP, Associate Editor, January 23, 2024
Like every organization and individual, we reflect on the past year — a transformative year full of events, learning, success, challenges, and collaboration. Stepping beyond the confines of our homes, we stood by our friends and colleagues, shared moments of laughter, and delved into discussions about the issues that hold the utmost significance for us. Here’s a glimpse into the array of events that unfolded over the past year.
We welcomed 2023 in style by hosting New Year, New Northern at the iconic USS Potomac. Several APA Northern Section members joined us for a memorable evening of reconnecting, forging new connections, and immersing themselves in the unique experience of FDR’s Floating White House!
New Year, New Northern at USS Potomac | Photo Credit: Juan Borrelli
Amidst the hustle of preparing Housing Elements, our Young and Emerging Planners (YEP) Group took the initiative to organize a Happy Hour in both San Jose and Oakland.
Interested in learning more about the YEP group? Reach out to the group at yep@norcalapa.org.
YEP Happy Hour in Oakland; Photo Credit: Michael Cass
Recognizing the vastness for our Northern Section, stretching from Monterey County to the Oregon border, we understand the challenges our members face in attending events during regular workdays. From Petaluma to Santa Cruz, we hosted several events this year at the regional centers to reach out to a broader membership.
North Bay Happy Hour at Henhouse Brewing Palace of Barrels in Petaluma | Photo Credit: Brendan Hurley
South Bay AEP / APA Networking Happy Hour at Abbott Square Outdoor Courtyard in Santa Cruz | Photo Credit: Carlina Rose
East Bay Happy Hour at Side Gate Brewery in Concord | Photo Credit: Sarah Allen
APA Northern Section has been at the forefront when it comes to advancing diversity in the planning profession. Our Diversity Group got together in Oakland to talk further about the planning challenges and opportunities that arise in underserved communities, all while enjoying some pizza.
Interested in learning more about the Diversity group? Reach out to the group at diversity@norcalapa.org.
DEI Group at Drake’s Dealership in Oakland | Photo Credit: Adrienne Heim
As the saying goes —many will start fast but only a few will finish strong. We brought the year to a close by hosting the highly anticipated and well-attended 2023 Awards Gala Party in Oakland.
East Bay Happy Hour at Gilman Brewing Co. in Berkeley | Photo Credit: Elizabeth H. Tyler
2023 Awards Gala at Preservation Park in Oakland | Photo Credit: Olivia Mendoza
Photo Credit: Olivia Mendoza
This was all because of you and your commitment to building our Northern Section. We thank you for your participation and look forward to doing this all over again in 2024!
Dhawal Kataria, AICP, RSP, is a transportation planner at Kittelson & Associates. He is a volunteer Northern Section Board member where he serves as a Northern News associate editor.