What a week it's been since I last wrote this column in our newsletter. I'm not telling you anything new,

I'm sure. Elections, Covid-19, stock market jitters, and now here come the rains. Maybe we could all use a cleanse.

 

So just when you think things can't get any crazier, they do. The Democratic debates we're quite the show, and although I'm not a huge reality TV fan, these had me watching. And as a balance I watched the complete Town Hall broadcast of our President. I'm just as confused as ever. Then the results of the  elections were enough to drive me to pull the plug. Smart TV? I don't think so.

 

To set a juxtaposition to this all, I was privileged to attend our 4th Rising Stars awards breakfast of the year this morning. And to say it gives me hope for our future is not strong enough. The stories told so beautifully not only by awardees but the administrators, counselors, and teachers will make you stop and say thank you for the work these individuals take on daily with our most prized resource, our children. Yes, the stories of these students and their parents are fantastic and inspirational but to hear the small and large acts of kindness, encouragement, and motivation these individuals give is lasting.  Teachers and the whole education system we have here in Escondido should not be measured simply by numbers but impact. And the effect is apparent and lasting just attend one of these breakfasts, and you'll see. Congratulations to all who participate and support our Rising Stars Scholarship program!

 

The Chamber is monitoring all resources available on the Covid-19 health threat, and a communique was sent out last week to our members sharing resources for all to follow. This is an apparent evolving situation. It also presents a unique opportunity to evaluate and either be ready to implement your disaster plans if necessary or now actually set up one. This small business recovery plan may be helpful if you fall into this latter category.

 

Now for some sobering news. Today we were given the announcement of the passing of one of Escondido's most excellent citizens. John Masson passed away early this morning after a courageous battle with cancer. John leaves behind his wife Tricia and his two children, Nick & Taryn and many, many friends whom he made and touched wherever he went. John was an advocate and supporter of the Chamber and served as past Board Chair. John will be sorely missed, but his legacy carries on in his family, friends, and through all the work he did to make Escondido the City of Choice. God bless John.