Let’s talk about business post-pandemic business, to be specific. Today marks the end of our first official opening week. Congratulations! How does it feel? Strange is the first word that came to my lips, followed by a confused look on my face. Or at least that’s what I think.
I went into our nearby Stater Bros. last week and quickly saw I was one of only a handful of non-wearing mask shoppers, and everyone at checkout, and I mean everyone, was standing in line with at least a ten-foot spread. Since mid-February, I’ve been fully vaccinated and understand the concern others have and respect their right to wear masks whenever and wherever they prefer. Please understand and respect my right to also go cover free. I got my dispensation from the highest of authorities. That’s right; the Governor said it’s ok. Alright, so my teeth aren’t as white as his, and I’m not 6’3”, but otherwise, I’m ok and feel I’m not endangering anyone’s health by not wearing a mask. Furthermore, it’s refreshing and freeing, and all the other buzzwords here to fill space.
I suspect it’s going to take a little more time. I hope we have it.
Unemployment hasn’t changed much, but at least the data looks good. Ironic, isn’t it that we believe the data here. Must fit the narrative. Ok, no more of this.
Tomorrow, the Chamber is hosting the 2nd of our 4-part
Job Fair series from 9a-2p here at the Chamber of Commerce’s luxurious parking lot. Seriously, we’ve got dozens of people hiring, and if you want a career, looking for a summer job, or wanting to see what’s out there for you, come by and check it out—drawings on the hour for gift cards and more.
Thank you to all who came out for the Chamber’s first in-person mixer last Thursday evening! Great group of Chamber members, Board members, supporters, newbies, and food. Yes, the food was typical Cocina Del Charro/Monforte style; fantastic! And thank you to Chris Bland for adding just the right amount of background mood via his smooth stylistic music mix. And it wouldn’t be a mixer without our fun band of Ambassador’s headed this year by the most delightful Cheryl Engdahl (Ambassador President). Additional thanks for their constant giving to all things Chamber goes to Yessenia Mendoza, John Schwab, Julie Kangas, Stan Weiler, Suzanne Southwell, Dan Meyer, and Carol Rogers (James even showed) of course, Joe Coyle. It was also good to see Louisa Magoon, Matt King, Craig Casey, and Tina and Steve Inscoe. I’m missing many others so, please accept my apologies.
And a final special thank you also goes to Kevin Svetich and Brian Murphy, who have combined to contribute over 35+ years of service to this Chamber of Commerce. Impressive.
Welcome to Escondido the Cardiovascular Institute of San Diego, and thank you for having the Chamber celebrate via the ribbon-cutting last Friday just before the kick-off of Cruising Grand! What a great group of professionals. Thank you, Cardiovascular Institute of San Diego, for choosing Escondido to do business.
The Wonderland Podcast is here, and I invite you to take a listen. Let us know what you think. We’re producing more episodes, but for now, there’s plenty to entertain.
The next big opportunity to celebrate with the Chamber is coming Thursday, July 22nd. We have an action-packed day scheduled, kicking it off with our 3rd Job Fair, the
Chamber’s Annual Open House, Rising Stars scholarship presentation, new Board installation, and more. It’s going to be a day of positive activities worthy of you stopping by—details to follow.
And speaking of the following, please do just that get involved, follow, join, lead but get out and celebrate life in this great community. And, if you can’t tell, I’m sitting here smiling.
It’s time.
Cheers,
James Rowten (JR)
