05 Jun More than Media Coverage: Native Star’s Historic San Diego Story, Featured on CBS 8

At c3 Communications, Inc. (c3), we believe great public relations doesn’t just generate coverage; it tells purpose-driven stories. We recently secured a CBS 8 story for Native Star, and it’s far more than just another piece of coverage. We’ve been working with Ruth-Ann Thorn for over two decades now and are true friends; this was very personal for many reasons. It was a true labor of love and an honor to bring to fruition. You can watch the segment HERE

This CBS 8 segment covers the Grand Opening of Native Star, the first Native American-owned boutique in San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter. Led by Ruth-Ann Thorn, a member of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians, Native Star is more than a store, it’s a cultural landmark built on resilience, history, and a celebration of Native creativity. CBS 8’s segment shares how this space now welcomes visitors with Native-made fashion, gourmet food, and original art, offering not just a retail experience, but a home for Native culture and community.

This isn’t just history making; it truly speaks to our hearts and everything we believe about making things better and building community. Native Americans were once banned from the Gaslamp Quarter, with signs that read: “Indians Wanted: Dead or Alive $25 a Head.” And now, Ruth-Ann not only owns Native Star, but also the historic Yuma Building (one of the oldest buildings in the Gaslamp) and EC Gallery next door. She truly is a juggernaut and an amazing entrepreneur. Talk about “Land Back” in a big way! This was so much fun to help her tell her story and open this true piece of history for her and Native Americans.

Coverage like this doesn’t happen by chance—it takes media strategy, relationship-building, and heart. It’s what we do at c3. If you’re looking for a partner to elevate your story, we’d love to connect. Contact us