Rick Wright, CEO of MainStreet Oceanside, Retires

Left to right: Rick Wright (Courtesy: MainStreet Oceanside), CAMS leaders at the 2018 Main Street Now Conference (Courtesy: CAMS), RIck Wright and Gumaro Escarcega (Courtesy: MainStreet Oceanside).

CAMS Connection | Spring 2024
By: Brooke Fox, Marketing and Communications Consultant

Rick Wright, a passionate leader for the Main Street Movement in California, has officially retired from his role after serving 15 years as the CEO/Executive Director of MainStreet Oceanside. 

Rick first became interested in downtown revitalization in the 1990’s as the owner of a 1-hour photo store, which evolved into Little Louie’s Gift Shop. As the owner of a retail business, he began volunteering with the Downtown Business Association. His efforts directly contributed to Oceanside’s Business District earning its designation as a Main Street community, making him one of the founders of MainStreet Oceanside. 

Rick was then named the Executive Director of MainStreet Oceanside in 2009. Among the events which he and his team helped to create and launch are MainStreet Oceanside’s Sunset Market, Shop Local, Taste of Oceanside and the Art that Excites community art program.

“My time has come to an end at MainStreet Oceanside, an organization that has inspired me to showcase my passion for supporting the downtown district,” said Wright. “Downtown Oceanside will always be in my heart, and I look forward to seeing what MainStreet Oceanside accomplishes in the future.” 

Rick’s involvement with California Main Street also stretches back many years, including several terms on the board and as President of the organization. Rick attended many Main Street Now national conferences and through his passionate leadership, he connected many communities in California to much needed resources.

Gumaro Escarcega, our current CAMS Board President, was appointed the new Chief Executive Officer of MainStreet Oceanside. Escarcega has been with MainStreet Oceanside since 2013, most recently serving as its’ Chief Operations Officer. He is well known for collaborating with stakeholders to help program and support Downtown Oceanside activities. In total, Escarcega has 17 years of experience managing Downtown Business Associations. 

“As the new leader at MainStreet Oceanside, I look forward to improving and retaining our small business community by creating programs and activities highlighting our downtown district,” said Escarcega. 

Gumaro credits much of his success to the mentorship and friendship Rick provided him over the many years they worked together. Rick certainly made a positive impact on many Main Street professionals and California communities over his long career. Cheers to you, Rick!