These are indeed trying times. Our community is stricken by the Covid-19 virus pandemic, and we’re all but paralyzed in place. And now we’d best prepare for a second wave. The latest update I have shows 72 cases confirmed in Escondido with the Covid-19 virus. I know we need to disconnect the economic impact from the health and welfare of human life, but, so far, with the steady leadership of City Hall, there have been no deaths from Covid-19 in Escondido. Plenty of lives forever impacted but, no deaths.

Open up or stay the course; the impact of our reactions to this pandemic are real. Washington,

Sacramento, San Diego County, City of Escondido, that’s the pecking order directing Escondido through

this pandemic. We do know there is a plan because we hear the daily updates from our President and

Governor and County. We do know there is planning going on right now to reopen our community. Not sure what they ar e just yet, but the plan is coming. And we’re ready.

Local business is the backbone of the Escondido economy and the majority of those are small

businesses. Of those small businesses, the restaurant segment is really hurting. The Chamber is working with the City and others to help. Please look for more on this next week.

There is so much more we’re doing at the Chamber via all of our resources and we ask that you be a part of our efforts. Log on, tune in, register, calendar, and be a part of our efforts to manage through these trying times.

Sincerely,

James Rowten (JR)