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Wednesday, December 11, 2024Padre Dam Board Welcomes New Member and Incumbent
Santee, CA – Kim Hales was sworn in as the newest member of Padre Dam Municipal Water District’sBoard of Directors on December 9, 2024. Director Suzanne Till was also sworn in at the same time forher second term on the District’s Board of Directors. Hales and Till were elected by their constituentsduring the November 2024 general election to serve for a four-year term on the Board. Director Till willrepresent Division 2. Director Hales will represent Division 4. “I welcome Director Hales and returning
Tuesday, December 10, 2024A.J. Tota Joins Thrivent Financial!
A.J. Tota Joins SANTEE, Calif (October 20, 2024) – Arpad “A.J.” Tota of Santee, CA has joined Thrivent as a financial advisor. Thrivent is a Fortune 500 diversified financial services organization offering advice, investments, insurance, banking and generosity programs and solutions to clients nationwide. A.J. comes to Thrivent ready and eager to support clients in all stages of their financial journey. With the belief that money is a tool, not a goal, he is passionate about taking a purpose-based
Monday, December 09, 2024The CTA, BOI and FinCEN: What Does this Mean for Santee, CA Businesses?
The Corporate Transparency Act may require certain U.S. companies to disclose beneficial ownership information to FinCEN to combat financial crimes. While a Texas federal district court’s preliminary injunction puts this requirement on hold, many experts expect that to be overturned. In that event, failure to file could lead to fines of $500 per day, up to a maximum of $10,000, and possible criminal penalties. Read more for details on how this may impact your business in the future. 1. Determine if
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Thursday, December 05, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 5DEC24
Hello Santee! We are proud to introduce, the Santee Chamber Foundation: Empowering Santee's Future Through Community-Driven Initiatives The Santee Chamber Foundation is the new, strategic, solution-seeking arm of the Santee Chamber of Commerce. Its primary focus is fostering a stronger, more vibrant community by supporting local businesses, engaging with residents, and creating opportunities for collaboration and growth while overcoming pressing issues, including workforce development and
Thursday, November 14, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 14NOV24
Hello Santee! Another thank you to all our Veterans as we celebrated on Monday with a beautiful day in Santee. Moving forward into the week, we are wrapping up our final issue of The Santee Magazine for this year and I had so much fun on our photoshoot at Barker Chiropractic. I am so thrilled to be sharing their story in this issue and grateful for the artistic eye of Jon with CreativVisuals who provided the photography for the cover image and accompanying article. Looking forward to sharing more
Thursday, November 14, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 08NOV24
Hello Santee! Yesterday we hosted our 6th annual (sellout) Veterans Appreciation Golf Tournament at Carlton Oaks - what a day. Our two staffers (Jennae Gonzalez and Andie Reyes) along with some key volunteers (Mike Aiken, Max Wiltz, Melissa Dombo and Pam White to name a few) put together such a special day honoring our past service members along with some outstanding veteran owned businesses. This year we proudly added a Veterans Resource Expo to our day for golfers to experience before tee-off and for
Thursday, October 31, 2024How You Can Start Using Data Processing with AI and Machine Learning
In a data-driven world, companies are at the edge of a digital shift, where efficiency and accuracy reach new heights. Massive amounts of raw data now convert seamlessly into actionable insights, enabled by AI and machine learning advancements. These technologies act as catalysts, changing how businesses handle data to maintain a competitive edge. Integrating AI into data processes refines decision-making, reduces operational errors, and elevates the business path forward.Amplifying Data Processing with
Thursday, October 17, 2024Acrobat Power Moves: Adobe Tools Help Women Entrepreneurs Crush It
This Women’s Small Business Month, it’s time to spotlight the resources that help women entrepreneurs soar. Adobe Acrobat simplifies key business processes, from document management to team collaboration, freeing up time for what matters most—scaling their companies. Whether refining workflows or speeding up decision-making, these features give women business owners a competitive edge in the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship. Acrobat AI Assistant: With Acrobat AI Assistant, you can see for yourself
Wednesday, September 04, 2024Advocacy Alert: AB 2499 (SCHIAVO) UNLAWFUL DISCRIMINATION AND PAID SICK DAYS: VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE - REQUEST FOR VETO
Advocacy Alert for AB 2499 (SCHIAVO) UNLAWFUL DISCRIMINATION AND PAID SICK DAYS: VICTIMS OF VIOLENCE REQUEST FOR VETO Click Here
Wednesday, September 04, 2024Advocacy Alert: SB 1299 (CORTESE) FARMWORKERS: BENEFITS REQUEST FOR VETO
Advocacy Alert for SB 1299 (CORTESE) FARMWORKERS: BENEFITS REQUEST FOR VETO Click Here
Thursday, August 29, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 29AUG24
Hello Santee! Have I told you lately I have an amazing Board of Directors? Let me remind you: I have an amazing Board of Directors. Two in particular (Darcy Fagerwold, EDMC and Tim Staump, Staump Music School) came together and formed the Elev8 Arts Foundation and gave me the privilege of now serving on a board with them. last night we hosted a launch party at the workplace of another director (Bryan Koci, Whissel Realty) and were joined by several other from our board who came out to show their
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Thursday, August 29, 2024Press Release - Santee Voters Forum 2024
Media Contact: Kristen Dare, ACE - President/CEO Santee Chamber of Commerce 619.449.1515 | dare@santeechamber.com Release Date: August 29, 202 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Santee Chamber Hosts a Candidates Forum Santee, California - The Santee Chamber of Commerce is hosting a forum for candidates running for State Congress District 48, State Assembly District 75, County Supervisor District 2, Santee City Mayor and Santee City Council District 4 in the November general
Thursday, August 22, 2024Advocacy Alert: Measure S - Protect Santee
Advocacy Alert for Measure S - Protect Santee Click Here
Wednesday, August 14, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 15AUG24
Hello Santee! Thank you to everyone who came out over the weekend to support the Santee Youth Business Fair. This was the Chamber’s second year working in collaboration with Momentum Tutoring and the Kiwani’s Club as we hosted over 60 youth entrepreneurs in the gym atSantana High School this past Saturday. Kids had their booths set up and on display from 10am-2pm as we welcomed the public to come in and shop with them. Many of them have been working with Momentum Tutoring for the past several months
Thursday, August 08, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 9AUG24
Hello Santee! Some of the sweetest business owners in town just celebrated their 15 year anniversary… I am so happy to congratulate Duane and Susie Parks for all their success with their Coffee Corner locations. Susie also happens to be my current chair of the board at the Santee Chamber so we get to spend plenty of time collaborating together. When my husband and I purchased our house back in 2012, we were just a few blocks away from their original location in Pathways Center, thus sparking my
Thursday, August 01, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 1AUG24
Hello Santee! This morning at 9am, Trader Joe’s officially opened to the public in Santee in their Mission Gorge site, replacing our former Best Buy location. The crowd was as eager and excited to shop as their staff was to welcome in the guests – in fact, one employee stood by the entrance and welcomed each guest with a continuous round of applause as it took over 15 minutes to feed the crowd into the building! The space is clean, fully stocked and ready for consumers. This particular location will
Wednesday, July 17, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 18JUL24
Hello Santee! Many of you have heard of redevelopment plans for our home golf course, Carlton Oaks. This course was established back in the 60s and even hosted the NCAA Western Region Finals and the NCAA Championship in 1974. Last month, the city held a Public Scoping Meeting. This is designed to provide an opportunity for agency staff and interested members of the public to submit written comments on the scope of the environmental issues analyzed in the Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The public
Thursday, July 11, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 11JUL24
Hello Santee! Last month, Councilmember Laura Koval hosted a presentation at City Hall. Working with elected officials has always been a Chamber priority, so when she reached out to the Chamber to collaborate, it was an easy “yes” on our end. Connecting people, especially businesses, to government is a goal of ours for many reasons. This bridge can allow for our business community to advocate for our needs and interests and potentially influence policy when the decision-making process is happening.
Wednesday, July 10, 2024Navigating Inflation: Smart Strategies for Small Business Survival
In today's turbulent economic environment, rising inflation is a challenge that can't be ignored. With climbing expenses and volatile markets, small business owners may find themselves on the brink of financial uncertainty. But fear not! By applying smart, innovative financial techniques, you can overcome the hurdles and set your enterprise on the path to success. This article presents actionable tips designed to help you steer your business through the high tides of inflation. Embrace Digital
Monday, July 01, 2024Advocacy Alert: Historic PAGA Reform Signed by Governor Newsom Agreement Between Business, Community and Labor Groups Will Create a Better, Fairer System for Workers and Employers
Historic PAGA Reform Signed by Governor Newsom Agreement Between Business, Community and Labor Groups Will Create a Better, Fairer System for Workers and EmployersSacramento – Today, the Fix PAGA coalition, representing non-profits, social justice advocates, family farmers, health care providers and businesses, applauded Governor Newsom and legislators for enacting historic reform to the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA). Governor Newsom signed the two PAGA reform bills today – Senate Bill 92
Thursday, June 27, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 27JUN24
Hello Santee! I hope you are all surviving the heat and enjoying the shift in weather typical for our Summers here in Santee. I’ve been fortunate enough to have some community partners invite me to lunch outings at some of my favorite coffee shops and restaurants. I've even had the chance to cheer on our local Padres at Petco Park. Thank you, Cox Communications, for bringing me out lately to enjoy Petco Park alongside great company from other chamber staffers from the San Diego Regional Chamber and
Thursday, June 13, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 13JUN24
Hello Santee! As the school year comes to an end for all students in Santee, I want to congratulate each class of 2024. It’s been an exciting two weeks for Santee and a special one for our family as our daughter promoted out of 8th grade yesterday from Rio Seco, ending our 15 years there as a family. At the heart of our mission lies workforce development, a cornerstone of opportunity for our community. So it was our honor (late last year) when we introduced a new event, spearheaded by board
Friday, June 07, 2024Advocacy Alert: AB 2876 (BERMAN) PUPIL INSTRUCTION: MEDIA LITERACY: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LITERACY
Advocacy Alert for AB 2876 (BERMAN) PUPIL INSTRUCTION: MEDIA LITERACY: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE LITERACY: CURRICULUM FRAMEWORKS: INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS SUPPORT – AS AMENDED APRIL 9, 2024 SCHEDULED FOR HEARING – JUNE 12, 2024 Click Here
Wednesday, June 05, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 06JUN24
Hello Santee! Last night, we celebrated Santana High School's Class of 2024, and tonight, West Hills High School will do the same. Next week will truly put a bow on the end of the school year as the Santee School District dismisses over 6,000 students and promotes 8th graders from eight different campuses on Wednesday (my daughter being one of them!). The celebrations have been many, with several still ahead, but the first took place on May 21st. The Santee School District held their regular Board
Tuesday, June 04, 2024From Concept to Creation: Using AI to Design Eye-Catching Ads
In today's digital age, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to create promotional images is not just innovative; it’s essential for staying competitive. AI offers unparalleled advantages in enhancing image quality, personalizing content, and streamlining design processes. This guide explores how you can harness AI to elevate your business's visual marketing efforts, ensuring every image you produce is both captivating and effective.Generate Attractive Images with AI Business owners should look for AI
Friday, May 24, 2024Request to Stay and Delay Implementation of the Noncompete Rule
Advocacy Alert for Request to Stay and Delay Implementation of the Noncompete Rule Click Here
Thursday, May 23, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 23MAY24
Hello Santee! Last week we had the pleasure of celebrating the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony of HotWorx Studio, a unique 24/7 gym located right here in Santee. What sets HotWorx Studio apart is their innovative workout experience offering sessions in saunas or infrared rooms. Each sauna features video workouts to guide you, with a variety of machines including bikes, rowers, and more. They also have a Functional Exercise Zone (FX Zone), a fully equipped area with bands, weights and
Tuesday, May 21, 2024Advocacy Alert - HR 7198 Prove It Act
Advocacy Alert for HR 7198 Prove It Ace Click Here
Thursday, May 16, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 16MAY24
Hello Santee! Last weekend the Santee Historical Society hosted their annual Butterfly & Bee Party at the Santee Historic Barn on Magnolia Avenue. This free-to-the-public event was a perfect way to spend the Saturday before Mother’s Day. With over 300 visitors, they were treated to free milkweed plants, face paintings, coloring and crafts activities and more! There were several for-purchase vendors there too with nature themed items available (my favorite were the natural soaps) and some community
Thursday, May 09, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 9MAY24
Hello Santee! Each month our Chamber has a Government Affairs Committee which meets to receive reports from representatives of elected officials, review potential impact on businesses, and recommend action, when needed, to the Chamber Board of Directors. Last month we were hosted at the Padre Dam Municipal Water District’s customer service building where we were treated to an overview of the East County Advanced Water Purification Program, then able to take an onsite tour of the current construction.
Wednesday, May 01, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 02MAY24
Hello Santee! The Santee Chamber of Commerce was thrilled to announce the award winners at the 2024 Santee Heroes Celebration from the work and impacts made last year. This annual event honors outstanding individuals from various sectors who have exemplified dedication and service within the community. The 2023 honorees include: Community Hero for the Santee-Lakeside Rotary: Bill PommeringCommunity Hero for the Santee Kiwanis Club: Paul StevensEducation Hero for the Santee School
Wednesday, May 01, 2024Advocacy Alert: CEQA Coalition Response Letter
Advocacy Alert for the CEQA Coalition Response Letter Click Here
Tuesday, April 30, 2024Santee Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Local Heroes at the 2024 Santee Heroes Celebration
Media Contact: Kristen Dare, ACE President/CEO Santee Chamber of Commerce 619.449.1515 dare@santeechamber.com Release Date: April 4, 2024 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Santee Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Local Heroes at the 2024 Santee Heroes Celebration Santee, Ca - The Santee Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the award winners at the 2024 Santee Heroes Celebration. This annual event honors outstanding individuals from various sectors who have exemplified
Monday, April 29, 2024Advocacy Alert: AB 2751 (HANEY) EMPLOYER COMMUNICATIONS DURING NONWORKING HOURS OPPOSE/JOB KILLER
Advocacy Alert for AB 2751 (HANEY) EMPLOYER COMMUNICATIONS DURING NONWORKING HOURS OPPOSE/JOB KILLER – AS AMENDED MARCH 21, 2024 Click Here
Friday, April 26, 2024GUHSD: Governing Board Names Mike Fowler Superintendent Finalist
Media Contact Collin McGlashen 619-248-7193 (cell)cmcglashen@guhsd.net April 26, 2024 Governing Board Names Mike Fowler Superintendent FinalistOfficial approval of 28-year GUHSD educator's appointment expected at May 9 Board Meeting EL CAJON – The Grossmont Union High School District (GUHSD) Governing Board (Board) has named Mike Fowler as their finalist to replace retiring GUHSD Superintendent Mary Beth Kastan. The Board is expected to approve an offer of employment to Mr. Fowler at its
Thursday, April 18, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 18APR24
Hello Santee! This last weekend I was able to partake in the Santee CommUNITY Celeberation hosted at the historic Edgemoor Barn. The Chamber teamed up with Staump Music School, a local business dedicated to helping children explore their musical talents. Throughout the day, we were treated to wonderful performances from Staump Music School's talented students, as well as from the dancers at Expressions Dance and Movement Center. It was truly a joy to witness such talent and creativity on display.
Monday, April 15, 2024Advocacy Alert: SB 1321 (Wahab) –– OPPOSE
Advocacy Alert for SB 1321 (Wahab) –– OPPOSE Click Here
Wednesday, April 10, 2024Advocacy Alert: CARB's Clean Air Act Authorization Request
Advocacy Alert for CARB's Clean Air Act Authorization Request Click Here
Tuesday, April 09, 2024Advocacy Alert: SB 1345 (SMALLWOOD-CUEVAS) EMPLOYMENT DISCRIMINATION: CRIMINAL HISTORY INFORMATION
Advocacy Alert SB 1345 (SMALLWOOD-CUEVAS) EMPLOYMENT DISCRIMINATION: CRIMINAL HISTORY INFORMATION OPPOSE/JOB KILLER – AS AMENDED MARCH 20, 2024 Click Here
Monday, April 08, 2024News Release: GUHSD Community School Showcase
Media ContactCollin McGlashen 619-248-7193 (cell)cmcglashen@guhsd.net April 5, 2024 Model "Community School" to Showcase its ProgramsAmidst the national movement toward "Community Schools," El Cajon Valley High School's leadership and staff will showcase the services, resources, and career programs they've built over multiple years which the recent infusion of California Community School Partnership Program Grant funding will enhance and expand for its community WHAT: El Cajon Valley High School
Thursday, April 04, 2024News Release: Santee Heroes Celebration 2024
Media Contact: Kristen Dare, ACE President/CEO Santee Chamber of Commerce 619.922.1031 dare@santeechamber.com Release Date: April 4, 2024 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Santee Chamber of Commerce Announces 2023 Person of the Year Santee, California - The Santee Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the recipient of the prestigious Person of the Year award. This esteemed honor is bestowed upon an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and service to the Santee
Thursday, April 04, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 04APR24
Hello Santee! Each year the Santee Chamber gives an award for our “Person of the Year”. This award is presented to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the community of Santee’s quality of life through their involvement in any variety of community activities. Such activities include charitable, service project, education, youth, civic, religious, or other comparable activities. The nominees may be made for current contributions or for those made over a period of time. It is with
Friday, March 29, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 29MAR24
Hello Santee! This week we have the public schools on spring break so you may see a jolt in your retail business with extra kiddos from GUHSD and Santee School District around town with parents. Personally, I took my kids out of the area for a few days but made sure to stop into one of our favorite brunch spots before heading out. If you find yourself running errands or shopping in Trolley Square, be sure to stop into Broken Yolk for some great service and delicious food. My favorite new refresher is
Thursday, March 28, 2024Advocacy Alert: Support for the City of Santee’s Four (4) FY 2025 Congressionally Directed Spending Requests
Advocacy Alert: Support for the City of Santee’s Four (4) FY 2025 Congressionally Directed Spending Requests Click Here
Wednesday, March 27, 2024Advocacy Alert: SB-1167 Solid waste: single-use drinking vessels - OPPOSED
Advocacy Alert for SB-1167 Solid waste: single-use drinking vessels - OPPOSED Click Here
Monday, March 25, 2024Advocacy Alert: SB 1103 (Menjivar) – Commercial Lease Contract Mandates - OPPOSE
Advocacy Alert for SB 1103 (Menjivar) – Commercial Lease Contract Mandates - OPPOSE Click Here
Thursday, March 21, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 21MAR24
Hello Santee! Although we've already recapped our annual Business Awards Night, I believe it's important to once again highlight our 2023 Business of the Year, Sportsplex USA. Throughout 2023, Sportsplex USA Santee experienced unprecedented activity, hosting over 50 local, regional, national, and international tournaments. Weekly, they accommodate 750 children aged 3-15 in their soccer league, along with 230 adult softball teams and 130 adult soccer teams. Beyond sports, they generously contribute
Friday, March 15, 2024News Release: Business Awards Night
March 12, 2024 Santee Chamber Hosts Annual Business Awards Night EL CAJON – The Santee Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Business Awards Night last Thursday at Sycuan Casino Resort, as Sycuan was also the proud title sponsor of the event. Santee Chamber President/CEO, Kristen Dare, alongside past Board Chair, Eddie Vandiver, co-hosted onstage as the organization welcomed over 250 guests. Starting out with celebrating the top contributors to the Chamber of 2023, this elite group of just over two
Friday, March 15, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 15MAR24
Hello Santee! Last Thursday we hosted our annual Business Awards Night at Sycuan Casino Resort. Our MC for the night and Past Board Chair, Eddie Vandiver, got to double as best sidekick AND award recipient as Sportsplex USA took home the 2023 Business of the Year Award. We celebrated our Strategic Partners from last year and announced the much anticipated winners of the popular Santee's Favorites voting program. With over 250 guests in attendance, it was our highest attendance yet with an exciting
Thursday, February 15, 2024Advocacy Alert: AB 2011 (BAUER-KAHAN) UNLAWFUL EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES: SMALL EMPLOYER FAMILY LEAVE MEDIATION PROGRAM SUPPORT – AS INTRODUCED JANUARY 31, 2024
Advocacy Alert for AB 2011 (BAUER-KAHAN) UNLAWFUL EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES: SMALL EMPLOYER FAMILY LEAVE MEDIATION PROGRAM SUPPORT – AS INTRODUCED JANUARY 31, 2024 Click Here
Monday, January 22, 2024Superintendent Mary Beth Kastan Announces Retirement
Media Contact Collin McGlashen 619-248-7193 (cell)cmcglashen@guhsd.net January 19, 2024 Superintendent Mary Beth Kastan Announces RetirementAward-Winning 37-year East County Educator Will Leave Post on June 30 EL CAJON – Grossmont Union High School District (GUHSD) Superintendent Mary Beth Kastan announced that she will retire at the end of the 2023-2024 school year after 37 years of service to GUHSD. In a video message shared with GUHSD staff, Mrs. Kastan expressed gratitude for “the opportunity to
