CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Rocking on despite break-ins, thefts, intrusion by the homeless and a vehicle busting its front window, a Fair Oaks Boulevard enterprise recently earned the Carmichael Property and Improvement District’s Bright Star award.

School of Rock owner Jason Kline thanked more than 100 PBID members and the community for support that has been “overwhelming” since his business took over the old Serritella’s building nearly two years ago.

“We’ve felt that Carmichael has been cheering us on,” said Kline. “I realized we could succeed here the day a car crashed through the front of our building. A lady I didn’t know came up to me and gave me $20. I thought: wow, this is a pretty awesome community.”

Three break-in robberies and theft of costly musical instruments marred the school’s first two years. But Kline and staff have been determined to keep the music playing. “We’re now home to countless musical families,” he said. “We’ll be rocking and moving on – enriching kids’ lives through performance-based music.”

Klein has also established School of Rock franchises in Elk Grove, Roseville and recently launched a new school in Orangevale. His Carmichael studio – located at Fair Oaks and Palm Drive corner – remains his fastest growing school.

The Bright Star award recognizes property improvements that enhance the commercial district. “School of Rock owners took a vacant, run-down property and fully transformed it,” said PBID chair Nick Bloise. “Their remodeling included painting the exterior, replacing its roof, new lighting, sidewalk planters and interior improvements that are visible from the street.

“The property was at one time subject to frequent (law enforcement) calls. Now it’s a true Bright Star in the Carmichael Community.”

Added PBID Executive Rebekah Evans: “Jason and his wife love this community. Their commitment is ongoing. They demonstrate that property owners and businesses are determined to revitalize our area.”

Started in 2016 at the instigation of Carmichael Corridor businesses, the PBID is one of 22 similar agencies established throughout the County in recent years. These groups aim to improve day-to-day merchant operations in their districts. The Carmichael fiefdom extends through three miles of Fair Oaks Boulevard and surrounding streets.

During its first seven years, the agency has focused on weighty community issues. Funded by self-imposed assessments from property owners, its $549,000 budget enables seven-day-per-week mobile security. This service counters trespassing, vandalism and homeless camping. The organization also removes trash from the business corridor and advocates for community interests.

Learn about PBID operations www.discovercarmichael.com