July 2018
Opioids: The Enemy Among Us - Page 4 Online Fraud Prevention - Page 7 Thompson Family Plumbing - Page 9
Chris Ackerman’s
IGNIFYDESIGNS GRAPHIC DESIGN
MARKETING
PUBLIC SPEAKING
www.SignifyDesigns.com
Glenda Bayless
CPA
Chairman's MESSAGE By Victoria Martin
Happy July!
Staff
I hope that each of you enjoyed Independence Day. Thank you to the Town of Apple Valley for putting on another awesome Freedom Festival!
Janice Moore President/CEO Nyesha Loyd Burnatte Executive Assistant Joy Adkins Membership Services Representative
Committees
Ambassadors • Executive Government Relations
Executive Committee Chairman Victoria Martin
First Vice Chairman Chris Ackerman Treasurer Virginia Watterson Secretary Janice Moore Past-Chairman of the Board Bob Tinsley
Our family has spent a lot of time this month reflecting on the sacrifices made by American soldiers for freedom. I’m so thankful to live in a country surrounded by such blessing and opportunity. In our current political environment, whatever your views, I encourage us to take a moment to be thankful for the blessings we’ve been given and those who sacrificed for us. This Fourth of July, I’m sending a prayer for humility, healing, respect, unity, wisdom, righteousness and strength for our communities, our leaders, and our Country. Thank you for supporting your business community by being a member of the Apple Valley Chamber. Have a blessed month!
Victoria Martin
Members of the Board Richard Bounce Amber Brendel Arlene Pence Bruinsma Isaac Cisneros Thomas Hallin Dana Hernandez Tom Hoegerman Carol Thomas- Keefer Kari Leon Kevin Mahany Richard Richter Terry Saenz Sabrina Schneider Tessa Schutz Mike Thrapp
Source Magazine
Editor & Designer Chris Ackerman - Signify Designs Staff Writer: T. Faye Griffin Printed at Mojave Printing Solutions The AV Business Source Magazine is published monthly by The Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce Spirit River Center 16010 Apple Valley Rd. Apple Valley, CA 92307 Tel. 760.242.2753 Fax. 760.242.0303 Email. info@avchamber.org Web. www.AVChamber.org
Calendar July 2018 July 11th Executive Committee Meeting Chamber Conference Room, Spirit River Center 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Chairman: Victoria Martin, ArchAngel Estate Planning July 13th Ambassador Committee Meeting Chamber Conference Room, Spirit River Center 16010 Apple Valley Road, Apple Valley 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Chairman: Dana Hernandez, Simply Rockin it Events July 17th Board of Directors Meeting Chamber Conference Room, Spirit River Center 16010 Apple Valley Road, Apple Valley 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Chairman: Victoria Martin, ArchAngel Estate Planning
July 18th High Desert Regional Chamber Coalition Luncheon & Mixer San Bernardino County Fairgrounds 14800 7th St, Victorville, CA 92395 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
August 2018 August 3rd Government Relations Committee Meeting Chamber Conference Room, Spirit River Center 16010 Apple Valley Road, Apple Valley Noon – 1:00 pm Chairman: Pat Orr, Little Caesars
Member Stats Snapology of the High Desert High Desert (760) 266-7780
Cherry Creek Mortgage Co. The Collaso Team
New Members State of the City Presentations 15940 Quantico Road #150 Apple Valley, CA 92307 (760) 383-1010
High Desert Regional Chamber Coalition Luncheon & Mixer
July 18, 2018
18409 US Highway 18 #5 Apple Valley, California 92307 (760) 242-8822
San Bernardino County Fairgrounds Alaska USA Building 14800 7th St, Victorville, CA 92395
11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Networking & Lunch 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Program
Renewing Members Victor Valley Personnel Services Inc / LevelUp Staffing
44 Years
Apple Valley Optometry
26 Years
San Bernardino County Fairgrounds
24 years
Victor Valley College Dist. Foundation, Inc.
24 years
Lewis Center for Educational Research
20 Years
Heritage Victor Valley Medical Group
19 Years
Smile Makers
16 Years
Brandman University Chapman University
12 Years
Armstrong Fairway Insurance
12 Years
Cactus Wren Garden Club
7 Years
Frogee’s Cocktail Lounge
7 Years
Salon 18 Suites
3 Years
Tonyan Coffee LLC
2 Years
Marlyn Lesley
2 Years
US Bank.
1 Year
Apple Valley Optimist Club
1 Year
We appreciate the overwhelming response in attendance at the General Membership Luncheon and wish to accommodate all members in attendance. In our efforts to fulfill the reservations at the Apple Valley Golf Course for the monthly luncheon we ask that members R.S.V.P. no later than the Thursday before the luncheon. Should a member reserve and not attend, the lunch fee of $25.00 will be billed to the member. Notice of cancellation of reservations for the luncheon must be made 24 hours in advance in order to avoid the lunch fee. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities upon request.
Program Assemblyman Jay Olbernolte & Sheriff John McMahon
Sponsor Opportunities To sponsor this event, please contact the Hepseria Chamber of Commerce at 760-244-2135
Ambassador Chair Dana Hernandez, Simply Rockn’ it Events
Ambassadors Richard Bounce, Bounce Realty Jackie Bounce, Bounce Realty Joan Phelps, Hi Desert Center for Spiritual Living Linda Martin, Linda’s Tailor Shop Anita Holmes, California Writers Club Barbara Smith, Mohahve Historical Society Armida Murphy Dana Hernandez, Simply Rockn’ it Events Eva D’Antonio, Entercom Radio Wendy Ramey, Agio Real Estate Tiffani Calvert, Oggi’s Pizza & Brewery Jacqueline Eldredge, Massey Insurance Services Brittany Depezynski, High Desert Shuttle John Wales, John-Wales Farmer Insurance Brandin Wilson Dillon, Shear Realty
Tickets & Reservations
No lunch cards will be accepted for this luncheon. Reservation required to attend. Visit avchamber.org
Cost $25.00
FEATURE STORY Co-workers noticed a change in Deidre. The once friendly administrative assistant had suddenly become surly and taciturn. At first they attributed it to stress. Recent cutbacks had everyone in the office a bit on edge. But there was more to it. Something didn’t add up. Known for her focus and dependability, Deidre now appeared distracted, even confused. Absenteeism became her new norm. She exhausted her sick days and vacation time. Then one day Deidre didn’t show up for work. It wasn’t long before the rumor mill churned out the horrid truth. Deidre had died of an overdose. In hindsight her employer tracked the shift in Deidre’s behavior back to a few weeks after she took time off for a minor surgery. Only away for a few days, she returned and, by all appearances, was fit for work. What Deidre’s employer didn’t know is that over time she had become dependent on the pain reliever her doctor prescribed following the procedure. While this is a fictional account, the scenario is not. From small towns to big cities, America is in the throes of a public health crisis. Opioid misuse is responsible for more deaths than car accidents. It is estimated that 33,000 Americans died of opioid overdoses in 2015, and that number continues to climb. Currently, more than 3 million Americans have an opioid use disorder; misusing opioids with street names such as “Oxy,” “Percs,” and “Vikes.” A White House commissioned report on the epidemic cites opioid overdose deaths have spiked among working adults between the ages of 25 and 55. The impact of which is keenly felt in the workplace. WHAT IS OPIOID MISUSE? Found naturally in the opium poppy plant, opioids are made from directly from the plant. Synthetic
Member F.D.I.C.
Opioids: The Enemy Among Us Words by T. Faye Griffin
opioids can be manufactured in laboratories using the same chemical structure. They are safe when used for short periods of time as prescribed. Opioids are useful in recovery from surgery or injuries due to their ability to block pain and release large amounts of dopamine into the system. But opioids also create an addictive sense of euphoria or “high.” While Hydrocodone (Vicodin®) oxycodone (OxyContin ®), Percocet ®, Oxymorphone (Opana ®) are legal, they can be misused. The illegal use of fentanyl and heroin, one of the most dangerous forms of opioids, is also on the rise. Misuse of legal opioids includes crushing pills or opening capsules, dissolving in water and injecting the liquid into a vein. Some users are known to snort the powder. Telling data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse outlines the frightening progression from prescription to addiction. • Roughly 21 to 29 percent of patients prescribed opioid for chronic pain misuse them. • Between 8 and 12 percent develop an opioid use disorder. • An estimated 4 to 6 percent who misuse prescription opioids transition to heroin. The economic burden of the opioid crisis on the economy is devastating, costing upwards of $549.8 billion a year. A study by the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control cites reduced productivity caused by overdoses results in a loss of $20.8 billion. Employers struggling with providing healthcare assistance for employees now must grapple with substance abuse treatment costs that have risen by $29.4 billion.
Misuse among youngsters mirrors that of adults. “No area of the United States is exempt from this epidemic. We all know a friend, family member, or loved one devastated by opioids,” says Anne Schuchat, Principal Deputy Director of The Center for Disease Control (CDC). The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has responded to the crisis by working to improve access treatment and recovery services, promoting the use of overdose-reversing drugs, as well as advocating better pain management practices that provide safe and effective, non-addictive methods to manage chronic pain. Admittedly, this only scratches the surface of the problem. As a business owner there are no easy answers when faced with a colleague battling opioid addiction. The stark reality is that they are more than contributors to the company bottom line. They are people, first and foremost. But as much as one may want to help, there is one important thing to consider: Unless you are in the counseling or treatment business, don’t go it alone. If you or someone you know needs immediate help, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers a free national helpline. Available 24/7/365, the confidential free treatment referral and information service is for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders. While they do not offer counseling, they are able to quickly connect callers with state services and other appropriate intake centers nationwide. SAMHSA’s National Helpline 1-800-662HELP (4357) or TTY: 1-800-487-4889.
CONSERVATION A NEW WAY OF LIFE HAND WATERING Make sure your hose is fitted with a shut-off nozzle to help control flow and avoid overwatering Avoid watering on windy days
SPRINKLER SYSTEMS Install a weather-based, programmable controller Turn off your sprinkler system within 48 hours of measurable precipitation
DRIP IRRIGATION Surround your plants and trees with mulch to limit evaporation, regulate the soil's temperature and apply water directly to the roots
For more information visit LibertyUtilities.com or call 760-247-6484
AT HOME OUTDOOR WATERING TIPS
Edinburgh, Scotland
Business Moment For all of its wonder and discovery, the internet can also be treacherous. As technology continues to evolve, so does the criminal activity it attracts. Online scams are the number one way thieves get access into our computers, steal information and wreak havoc. The number of identity theft victims rose in the United States to 16.7 million in 2017 with a loss of nearly $17 billion dollars. And to add insult to injury, over 1 million of those victims were children. The elderly are also a f a v o r e d target by scammers. Here are a few tips to help keep you safe as you traverse the World Wide Web: Practice the 3-Es. Set-up three separate email addresses--one for work, one for family and friends, and one for junk. Use the junk email for online shopping and when signing up for mailing lists. Trash ‘em. Delete solicitation emails alerting you of overseas lottery winnings, inheritances and business investment opportunities. These are usually massive viruses going somewhere to happen. It is safe to dump them unopened. Don’t get attached. NEVER open an attachment from “top level domain” addresses ending
Avoiding Fraud Online By T. Faye Griffin
in .jp (Japan), .au (Australia), .ru (Russia), etc. This ploy is intended to steal credit card numbers and other personal information. Scan the Scammer. Always do an online search when an unsolicited company contacts you by email, phone or text. Search for the name and the phone number using keywords like: “complaint” or “scam.” Be aware that scammers c a n manipulate your Caller ID and give a fake name. Be rude to the robot. If you get an automated c a l l (robocall) and hear a sales pitch, hang up and report it to the FTC. Do not be tempted to “Press 1” to lodge a complaint or ask to taken off the list. It may only lead to more calls. Protect your payment. Most credit cards now have fraud protection built in. Some payment methods do not. Be wary when asked to use wire services like Western Union, MoneyGram, or reloadable cards like MoneyPak. They are not protected and a legitimate company would never ask you to pay that way. As children we’re told to always be aware of our surroundings. Nowhere is that more important than on the World Wide Web. Remember: if it doesn’t seem right...it probably isn’t. Be wise and be safe.
Shop Local. Source Local.
Shred Your Docs, a document-destruction business, provides routine mobile services to many local organizations and businesses, including Agio Real Estate.
Is your business sourcing local? Share your story at shoplocal@applevalley.org for an opportunity to be featured in an upcoming Shop Local ad.
www.ShopAppleValley.org
le r a n ie M il te n & J e n A E st a te ) id l v g io Re a g h t) : D a ri (A n to o ft Le e (l s) , Ka ri our Doc (S h re d Y
Business Spotlight
By T. Faye Griffin
Whether at home or at work, plumbing trouble is inevitable— and so is the stress associated with finding someone reliable to do the repairs. Tackling a problem like a clogged drain on your own might seem like a quick solution, but it can actually lead to serious damage. Fortunately, Thompson Family Plumbing & Rooter is expert at repairing and maintaining both commercial and residential systems. Serving the High Desert since 2013, the Hesperia-based firm has earned a reputation for excellent outcomes and superior customer service. Founded by John and Devynn Thompson, family-owned and operated Thompson Family Plumbing & Rooter is bonded, insured, and fully licensed by Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Voted “Best of the Desert” in 2017, Thompson Family Plumbing & Rooter places an emphasis on building long-lasting relationships with their customers. To instill confidence in their work, and their workers, the company maintains a crime-free policy. Each employee is thoroughly screened to ensure there are no outstanding criminal records. To further put the minds at ease, technicians present a scannable photo ID before entering a home. Satisfied customers agree it is this sense of caring that sets Thompson apart. Customers are treated like family. Commercial customers receive no less consideration. At the top of the game when it comes to serving the needs of businesses of all sizes, Thompson Family Plumbing & Rooter is the go-to for numerous medical and dental offices, restaurants, fitness centers, and retail outlets. The list of satisfied clients includes: Kohl’s, Michael’s, Golden Corral, and the City of Hesperia. In addition to the benefit of upfront pricing and around-the-clock emergency services, both residential and commercial customers can take advantage of one of the many signature membership plans. Each plans includes premium benefits such as (but not limited to): Annual inspections • Water heater maintenance • 24-hour response time Camera inspection of mainline • Backflow testing & certification • Drain cleaning • Discounted services up to 15%. Thompson Family Plumbing & Rooter is ready to serve you. They can be reached at 760-273-5101.
Casey L. Armstrong President
Lic #OI29627 (760) 245-2561 Main Office 17072 Silica Dr. #103 (760) 954-6064 Cell Victorville, CA 92395 casey@armstrong-fairway.com (760) 245-2637 Fax
Apple Bites
New Member Connie Kramer of Beagles & Buddies is welcomed aboard by Chairman Victoria Martin.
Mayor Art Bishop presents Mayor’s Minute.
Keynote speaker T. Faye Griffin brings down the house with “What’s in Your Mouth?”
Chad Shaules of Cornerstone Construction proudly receives new member plaque.
Photos By Chris Ackerman
Hesperia Chamber President/CEO Cari Thomas calls attention to the High Desert Regional Chamber Coalition Luncheon & Mixer.
We say farewell & thank you to Armida Murphy of 19 years on our Ambassadors Committee.
Anil Vadaparty graciously accepts the new member plaque on behalf of Desert View/ McKinley Children’s Center.
Fire Chief Lorenzo Gigliotti announces new personnel promotions at the Apple Valley Fire Protection District.
Overjoyed to be a part of the Apple Valley Chamber is Rosita Smolinisky representing Grand Canyon University.
Sabrina Schneider and Crazy Chris playfully snuggle up for a quick selfie.
Along side being Ambassador Chair, Dana Hernandez joins as new member Rock’n Our Disabilities Foundation.
Don Ferrarese of Ferrarese Foundation is honored for his charitable contribution Foundation.
Glenda Bayless
CPA
Tax Return Preparation - All Types Tax Audits, IRS, FTB, EDD Tax Problems Specialist Accounting • Payroll Services $50 DISCOUNT FIRST VISIT
760-240-0000 • Fax: 760-240-0996 • gbcpa@glendabaylesscpa.com 23819 Huasna Road, Apple Valley, CA 92307-6767
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LUPE DE LA TORRE
LUPE IS A SECOND GENERATION REALTOR® WHO TAKES HER BUSINESS VERY SERIOUS. LUPE IS A TRUE ASSET TO THE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT. SHE HAS QUICKLY BUILT A REPUTATION FOR DELIVERING OUTSTANDING SERVICE AND HELPING HER CLIENTS MEET THEIR GOALS. KEEP UP THE GREAT JOB, LUPE. INDUSTRIAL EXECUTIVE SERVICESBOLDER. RECRUITING SMARTER. FASTER.
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www.icrjobs.com (760) 245-8384 (888) 244-5802
SUBMISSIONS Nyesha Loyd, editor, accepts articles for possible newsletter publication. Articles are subject to editing and will be published on a space available basis.The Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce assumes no responsibility for the care or return of submitted materials. DISCLAIMER All reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in THE BUSINESS SOURCE. The Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce accepts no responsibility for damages arising directly
18484 Highway 18, Suite 150 Apple Valley, CA 92307 760-242-6083 lupe.d@century21fairway.com
or as a consequence of the use or publication of inaccurate information.The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and are not necessarily shared by THE BUSINESS SOURCE, its staff, the Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce or its advertisers. Editorial content is intended as general information and not seen as specific legal or financial advice. For such, readers are advised to consult professionals in the appropriate field. The Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce assumes no liability resulting from advertising contained in this publication.
14360 ST. ANDREWS DR., SUITE 1, VICTORVILLE, CA 92395