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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, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 17OCT24
Hello Santee! This past Tuesday, we had the pleasure of hosting a Joint Mixer with the East County Chamber of Commerce at the Santee Sportsplex USA. It was a fantastic evening of networking, where our members and partners came together to build connections and strengthen relationships. Sportsplex USA has been a cornerstone of our community since 2012, not only providing a premier venue for youth and adult leagues in softball, baseball, and soccer, but also serving as an economic driver for our region by
Thursday, October 10, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 10OCT24
Hello Santee! As our local chamber executive, I had the privilege of attending Congressman Darrell Issa's East County Leadership Open House on Tuesday night, where he announced the exciting news that his district staff now has an office at Santee City Hall. This increased accessibility is a significant win for both residents and local businesses. Having a direct connection to Congressman Issa’s team right here in our community will make it easier to address concerns, seek guidance, and collaborate on
Thursday, October 03, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 03OCT24
Hello Santee! The Bradley Avenue/SR-67 Project officially (and finally) broke ground on Tuesday October 1st in El Cajon. As many Santee residents travel to our neighboring city, we have seen the need for improvement at the Bradley exit off the 67 for not just years, but decades. The project will improve the local roadway and freeway interchange. For Bradley Avenue from west of Magnolia to east of Mollison Avenue, improvements include bike lanes, sidewalks, and turn lanes. For the interchange,
Thursday, September 26, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 26SEP24
Hello Santee! The networking mixer at Lantern Crest Senior Living last week was a fantastic event, showcasing a wonderful collaboration between the La Mesa Chamber of Commerce and the Santee Chamber of Commerce. Attendees enjoyed an array of delicious food, which really elevated the atmosphere and encouraged mingling. Throughout the evening, guests had the opportunity to connect with one another, share ideas, and explore potential collaborations. The highlight of the night was the raffle, featuring
Thursday, September 19, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 19SEP24
Hello Santee! Yesterday, the Santee Chamber of Commerce hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for Sedano Chevrolet, the city's first new-car dealership. Owned by East County native Manny Sedano, a Veteran who grew up in Lakeside and attended El Capitan High School, the dealership represents a significant development for the community. The dealership is being built on a historic property, once home to Santee’s original schoolhouse, Cowle’s School, which was later renamed Santee School in 1893 before closing in
Friday, September 13, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 13SEP 24
Hello Santee! Last Friday was an exciting day for the council chambers of Santee City Hall. Our local Congressman, Darrell Issa, hosted the House Judiciary Committee for a field hearing, examining the impact of the Biden-Harris Administration’s failed border policies on California communities. I was grateful to get an invitation to witness this hearing firsthand, alongside local leaders such as Senator Brian Jones (pictured), Santee Mayor John Minto, Vista Mayor John Franklin, Riverside County DAMichael
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
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
Friday, July 26, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 26JUL24
Hello Santee! I was a little embarrassed to say, that until recently, I had never attended the Santee Salutes event held by the City each Fourth of July. For me, this long-overdue tradition was such a treat, as my coworker and I were hosted in a special area for guests of the City. It was a place where Heather Jones (wife of our district Senator, Brian Jones) made you somehow feel as if you were at a family backyard party and not a public event with thousands of people. She curated a space for friends to
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
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
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 31, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 31MAY24
Hello Santee! Last weekend was incredible. We hosted our annual Santee Street Fair - a community event which boasted tens of thousands of guests, hundreds of vendors, dozens of volunteers, and one very special Gold Star Family. To those who contributed in any way possible, thank you. This event is put on by our small staff (thank you Jennae and Caitlyn!) and some impressive volunteers with the help of many sponsors, including our presenting sponsors: Pepper Farm Deli, Image On and iSquad
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
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
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
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.
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 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
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Wednesday, March 06, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 7MAR24
Hello Santee! Last week we hopped over to the neighboring city of La Mesa to join forces with their chamber and have some fun with a mutual member: Whissel Realty Group. Kyle Whissel had housed his office and his family in Santee for several years, getting deeply involved in our city and sharing much of his time and talents to the Chamber and several other (lucky) organizations. After Kyle and team moved over to La Mesa, we inherited the wonderful Bryan Koci from his team to step into a Director role on
Friday, February 16, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 16FEB24
Hello Santee! A few weeks ago, Vice Mayor Dustin Trotter hosted a new mini-event called Trotter Talk. This was a great way for constituents in District 4 to meet their elected representative and get a pulse for what is happening around our city. Also in attendance was Assembly hopeful for District 75, Andrew Hayes, as well as current Santee Fire Chief, Justin Matsushita who provided insight on the department’s future goals to keep Santee safe. For those who missed this event, Vice Mayor Trotter will
Friday, February 02, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 02FEB24
Hello Santee! This Wednesday night we were so appreciative to host a large crowd at our joint Chamber mixer at Sportsplex USA. We partnered with neighboring friends, the East County Chamber, to start our year with a bang. Many vibrant connections, meaningful conversations, and a palpable sense of community made for a perfect evening among local business leaders. A special acknowledgment goes to the Santee Sportsplex for their generosity in hosting. Their fantastic venue and warm hospitality provided
Thursday, January 25, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 25JAN24
Hello Santee! Last month a 72-year-old man collapsed on a softball field at Sportsplex USA Santee. Bystanders initiated CPR and delivered 2 shocks with an AED. Santee Fire Department crews assumed care and placed the patient on the LUCAS mechanical CPR device, administered additional shocks, and gave Advanced Life Support medications. During transport to the hospital, the patient regained a pulse, and his care was transferred to emergency room staff. The patient was later discharged and was set to follow
Thursday, January 18, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 18JAN24
Hello Santee! The new year is well underway and with that comes a slight change in the tide. Our chamber of commerce has a diverse and unique board of directors in which a leadership change has allowed for some new additions and a new face at the helm. I’d like to officially welcome new Chair of the Board, Susie Parks (Coffee Corner), along with returning Director, Tim Staump (Staump Music School) and new Directors Karl Burris (Live Life Physiotherapy) and Stephanie Wooding (Best Day Ever Weddings +
Thursday, January 11, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 11JAN24
Hello Santee! Last month Supervisor Joel Anderson hosted his annual legislative open house at the Lakeside Rodeo grounds. The holiday season is always a perfect time for reflection and care so it made sense he seized the opportunity to share his accomplishments of 2023 with his constituents. It was also a collective of County offered programs and services available to residents and businesses and was an opportunity to connect with community leaders. Supervisor Anderson provided an open space to allow
Thursday, January 04, 2024Santee Chamber Weekly Update 04JAN24
Hello Santee! Let me warn you, those bottles were for “props” only! However, when searching through my many photos of Melissa over the past two years, this one proved to be the most fun. I say that because Melissa is a lot of fun, but as chair of our board the past two years, she has definitely worn several hats, always knowing that business comes first. Melissa and her husband are the owners of second-generation company, Raceway Electric & Solar. We met years ago as our sons were schoolmates but she got
Friday, December 22, 2023Santee Chamber Weekly Update 22DEC23
Hello Santee! This week was a special time in Santee as we saw longtime local non-profit, Santee Santas, crank out their annual delivery day, giving to those in need right here in town. They saw an increase in applicants this year which tells us how important it is to continue to pitch in when/where possible for this organization. The Santee Chamber staff jumped in for box building day and got together last week to help “shop” for families and prepare and wrap gifts that were taken to homes this week.
Friday, December 15, 2023Santee Chamber Weekly Update 15DEC23
Hello Santee! Last Wednesday the Chamber hosted an inaugural event to compliment needs we are seeing with local employers: Party with a Purpose was a night of fundraising with efforts going to support bridging a gap between young adults and trade careers as we provide scholarships to high school students looking to enter vocational schools after graduation. Jimmy’s of Santee was such a delightful host for this private event (we highly recommend!). From their festive décor, amazing staff and tasty
Thursday, November 30, 2023Santee Chamber Weekly Update 30NOV23
Hello Santee! Earlier this month while we were hosting our annual Veterans Appreciation Golf Tournament, I was able to sneak in a visit while golfers were having their fun on the course. Nick Ortiz, Vice President of Small Business Advocacy for the California Chamber of Commerce, was in the San Diego area and making his rounds with a few local chambers. I was grateful to be one of them. Nick has an impressive resume and his experience is the perfect match for his role at CalChamber. I often credit our
Wednesday, November 22, 2023Santee Chamber Weekly Update 22NOV23
Hello Santee! Recently, some of you may have noticed the newest addition to Trolley Square had opened their doors: Macy's small format department store welcomed a long line of first customers on Saturday November 11th. The guests were welcomed in with live music, a light breakfast, a chance to spin a prize wheel, and many happy employees who were ready to share their expertise on the array of merchandise available. The store is beautiful and boasts many favorite, well-known brands of clothing,
Thursday, March 04, 2021Santana High School - 20 Years Later
When people experience a traumatic event, the date of that event can sometimes live on with them, even plaguing them with anxiety as that date nears. For years, I have watched calendars end out the month of February and I immediately felt uneasy as we knowingly entered into the month of March. This year, that anxiety struck me a tad early as I sat in early February realizing that next month, March 5th marks the 20-year anniversary of the shooting at Santana High School. I'm not alone in the acknowledgement
