March 08.17 
Economic Development Committee Meeting
Join us for the Economic Development Committee meeting, Thursday, March 9, at noon. 
Our guests are Michelle Geller and Michael Strong from the City of Escondido, Economic Develop. 
Feedback Survey
Chamber building


Chamber Benefits
Annual Dinner
Be sure to make your voice heard and nominate possible recipients for our 107th Annual Awards Dinner
Nomination Forms here
Young Professionals
Are you a Young Professional? Whether you are young in age or at heart, if you're a Chamber Member we would love to feature you in the newsletter. Please email philip@escondidochamber.org 
Rorie Johnston  

Today is International Women's Day. And since I am a woman, I think it is appropriate to give my personal reflections. 

Having grown up with four brothers, I always felt comfortable in a "man's world", minus the locker room talk. I value hard work, the ability to figure things out and creativity. I like a challenge and am always exploring new things. 

I have not pursued "Women's Issues" in association with any organization and I would never label myself as an activist or feminist. However, I do value the road that has been paved for women in this country. We enjoy many freedoms that other women around the world do not, like the ability to pursue an education, to drive our own car, to walk about freely and to speak for ourselves. Things that we all too often take for granted.  

Yes, I have encountered people who have a misconception about my abilities because I am a woman, but those have been few, and I simply choose to consider the source and move on. It is because of the opportunities that I have seized that has brought me to this place in my life, and I will continue to cease such opportunities. 

If I were to speak from one woman to another, this is what I would say:
  • Recognize that what you think about yourself and others will hold you back more than any person ever can.
  • Be adventurous! Say "I will try before you say "I can't."
  • Surround yourself with people who see your potential and will help you develop to your fullest. 
  • Understand that you do not have to know everything. Even if you do know the answer, practice listening and letting others speak first. You will learn more than you thought you knew. But, don't be afraid to speak, even if the answer is "I don't know, but I would like to learn more."
  • Embrace criticism and don't take it personally. It is the best opportunity to grow. If someone is taking the time to give you advice, it is because they care about you. However, you will encounter the perpetual critic. Thank them for there feedback and move on! 
BTW, I am still reaching for my potential...

Sincerely,
 
Rorie Johnston
Business of the Month
Interested in highlighting your business?

The Escondido Chamber of Commerce is launching a new social media program for our Chamber Members to get more visibility called "Business of the Month". We will come to your location and Facebook Live stream your business! We will take an in-depth look at your business so people can better know what your company is about and some interesting details they might not know. When the live stream is over, the video will make its way to our YouTube channel. 

Please email philip@escondidochamber.org if you would like your business to participate. 
Business News
HR Watchdog CalChamber's Employment Law Blog
Gail Cecchettini Whaley



Starting March 1, 2017, all single-user toilet facilities in any business establishment, place of public accommodation or government agency must be identified as "all-gender" toilet facilities. The law authorizes inspectors or other building or local officials responsible for code enforcement to inspect for compliance ( Health and Safety Code sec. 118600 ).  The recent White House action to rollback restroom protections for transgender students is unrelated to the restroom signage requirement for California businesses.

Local News
Times-Advocate
News Desk



Escondido Union School District Supt. Luis-Rankins-Ibarra Monday gave the district's first ever "State of the District" address since taking the district's reins in 2014. It was upbeat and optimistic while recognizing the many challenges that the district faces, chief among them: declining enrollment, aging facilities, poverty among the great majority of its students, and less than stellar test scores.  School Board President Zesty Harper said, "As a board member, it is our honor to work with such an amazing and dedicated staff that are all about serving all of the kids of this community."

Annual Dinner Sponsorship
June 9



Our 107th Annual Installation and Awards Dinner is right around the corner! Complete your nominations by May 1st. For registration, sponsorship, and nomination information click here

Ribbon Cuttings
March 24


Join the Chamber Friday March 24 in welcoming our new member Coastal Pavement Products to the community!

Grand Ave Festival
May 21

Only two months away from the bi-annual Grand Ave Festival. If you're interested in the Grand Ave Festival or Banner sponsorship click  here!
Escondido Chamber of Commerce | 7607452125 | info@escondidochamber.org | http://www.escondidochamber.org
720 N Broadway Escondido, CA 92025