A hit and run, traffic backed-up, bank robbery, gang-related shooting are the headlines which come to mind when I review the latest updates on Escondido stuffing my inbox. Where's the good news? I know there's good news because I hear it all around me here in Escondido. City Hall is not just sitting on their collective hands; things are happening.

Escondido is so much more than the headlines and coverage we receive. The Escondido business community is alive and well, challenged yes but, not giving up. Yes, there are many issues to be dealt with and running a successful business anywhere is not for the faint of heart. But, know this, people are behind every small-medium and large business here in Escondido. People who are voting, paying taxes, sending their kids to local schools, attending services of their choice, buying goods and services from local merchants.

The Chamber is acting on our mission of providing a resource of information, contacts, ideas, and services to our members with one thing in mind, and that is to support and build local business. If you have an idea or thought on how we can be more effective, please share this with us. We're all about improving and growing, and you have my personal email: James@escondidochamber.org.

Tomorrow's noon presentation hosted here at the Chamber is an opportunity to become informed about an issue directly affecting local merchants; frivolous ADA lawsuits. Join us to learn more about the issue and ways your business can comply with the law and avoid being the target of a lawsuit. If you can't attend, we will be going live on Facebook, and we welcome you accessing the stream. Click here to register for this free event.