It’s been a while since we last connected via this newsletter. So, with that being said I’m going to dive right in.
We have got a problem folks and the problem isn’t going away until we address it. The marketplace is revved up and ready to open, the issue is staffing. There are plenty of jobs but not enough workers. It is basic; why work when you can sit at home and collect as much money as you did when you were working?
Ok, so let’s do something about it. The Chamber is going to help and we’re going to make it easy. We’re hosting a series of Job Fairs over the next 3 months. Beginning Thursday May 27th from 9a-3p we’re holding an in-person “Back to Work” job fair here at the Chamber of Commerce (720 North Broadway) right here in Escondido. We will set it up outside and add some fun to the day. Employer’s will be onsite ready to hire! Yes, it is in-person with all precautions necessary taken. We’ll have food trucks and drawings for prizes along with a bevy of employers ready to share their pitch on why you should apply and come to work with them.
The shortage of worker’s is possibly the only thing holding back many businesses as they prepare to fully open up. Many of these jobs are not just entry level minimum wage opportunities. So, if you’re out of work and thinking of getting back into the workforce, or you’re considering your options and may be ready to switch careers here’s an opportunity to explore your choices.
Hiring? Contact the Chamber for more information and ways to participate.
Speaking of opening up. The Chamber met last week with the management team at Westfield North County. The mall originally opened in February 1986 with JC Penney, May Company, Nordstrom, J.W. Robinson’s, Sears, and The Broadway as its original anchors. If you haven’t been to the Mall and many of us haven’t during the pandemic, we encourage you to consider all that Westfield North County has to offer.
We came away from our meeting with a sense of renewal, opportunity and a firm belief that there are some exciting times ahead for this important landmark in Escondido. Stay tuned.
Changes at City Hall are imminent and not just at the top where the new City Manager Sean McGlynn will begin soon. The City is also in the final stages of recruiting to fill the vacated spot of Amber Tarrac who played an important role in the City as the Deputy Director of Economic Development.
A lot of buzz is going around regarding the the Escondido City Library and a perceived shrinkage of content and books. Let's just leave you with this. The public Library requires nothing of its visitors: no purchases, no membership fees, no dress code. You can stay all day, and you don't have to buy anything. You don't need money or a library card to access a multitude of of on-site resources that include books, e-books and magazines, job hunting assistance, computer stations, free Wi-Fi, and much more. Are libraries important? You bet they are.
And, on a personal note I had the opportunity to check out one of my favorite May grey/June gloom escape areas last weekend when we went to Palm Springs. It has been years since we’ve visited this area and I couldn’t have been more impressed with the controlled growth of this desert escape. Many of my favorites are open and thriving like the Living Desert and the night life energy of downtown Palm Springs was palatable. But the top spot was the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway! If you go you simply must take the ride.
Cheers,
James Rowten (JR)
