Jenny Flores, Special Events & Graphics Coordinator
Jacil San Martin, Internal Services Coordinator
As spring unfolds across the High Desert, businesses are poised to “bloom” alongside the season’s vibrant renewal. The Greater High Desert Chamber’s 26th Annual ‘An Evening Affaire,’ held on March 2, 2025, exemplified this spirit of growth and community. Hosted at the
San Bernardino County Fairgrounds’ Desert Valley Hospital Community Building, the event featured fine wine, beer, and cuisine from local vintners, breweries, and numerous local restaurants and caterers. Attendees also enjoyed displays from local artists and performances by local musicians, creating a rich tapestry of the region’s cultural and entrepreneurial vitality.
Published by the Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce 15428 Civic Dr. #310, Victorville, CA 92392 Tel: (760) 245-6506 Fax: (760) 245-6505
e-mail: mark@ghdcc.com Visit us on-line at www.ghdcc.com
MANUSCRIPTS: The editor welcomes articles for possible publication. The Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce assumes no responsibility for the care or return of any manuscripts. Articles are subject to editing and are included on an “as space permits” basis.
ADVERTISING: Advertising will be accepted from outside sources at the current member/non-member rates. The Chamber reserves the right to refuse any advertisement and/or sponsorship. The printing of an advertisement and/or content does not constitute or confer an endorsement of a product, business or service.
DISCLAIMER: All reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in Insight Magazine. The Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce accepts no responsibility for damages arising directly 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 Insight Magazine, its staff, the Greater High Desert Chamber or advertisers. Editorial content is intended as general information, and not as specific legal or financial advice; for such, readers are advised to consult professionals in the appropriate field. The Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce assumes no liability resulting from advertising contained in this publication.
Chamber membership offers businesses year-round opportunities to cultivate growth, connect with peers, and stay informed on critical legislative updates. From high-impact networking events like ‘An Evening Affaire’ to advocacy efforts that give businesses a voice in policy decisions, the Chamber is dedicated to empowering its members. The newly launched Speaker Series further enriches professional development by bringing industry leaders and experts to share insights and strategies. With many more benefits, including marketing exposure, educational workshops, and access to exclusive member resources, the Chamber provides a fertile ground for businesses to thrive and flourish this spring and beyond.
Shannon Shannon SaddleRock Reverse Mortgage 2024-2025 Chair of the
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Shannon Shannon – Chair of the Board - SaddleRock Reverse Mortgage
Dr. Lisa Lamb – Immediate Past Chair – Lewis Center for
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Clinton Alford – Farmers Insurance-Clinton Alford Agency
Laura Andre –The Mall of Victor Valley
Gwen Bedics – Global Credit Union
CJ Eversole – Pizza Factory of Apple Valley
Matthew Hawkins – Matthew Hawkins State Farm Insurance Agent
Randi Hunt – A Better Way - Victor Valley Domestic Violence
Dr. Kristina Mendoza - Optimum Audiology
Arsalee Morales - Apple Valley Communications, Inc.
Sarina Muhammad - Goodwill Career Resource Center
Kevin Smilen - Victorville Motors
Steve Tyrrell – Mitsubishi Cement Corporation
Dr. Kenisha L. Williams - TransFormNation Training & Development, LLC
CONSISTENT TREATMENT, DOCUMENTATION KEY TO REDUCING RETALIATION RISKS
An employee complained about workplace conditions but had ongoing performance issues before and after the complaint. Can I still discipline the employee despite the complaint? Yes, you can discipline the employee for legitimate business reasons, such as poor performance, if doing so is unrelated to their making a complaint. You should take steps, however, to ensure your actions are fair and consistent, and don’t appear retaliatory.
Avoid Retaliation
Retaliation occurs when an employer takes adverse employment action against an employee for exercising their rights under the law — otherwise known as a protected activity. Protected activities include actions like reporting discrimination, harassment, wage issues or unsafe working conditions. On the other hand, general complaints about workload or personal disagreements don’t typically qualify.
Accordingly, if your employee’s complaint was a protected activity, the risk of a disciplinary action being seen as retaliation is high.
To complicate matters, in California, as of January 1, 2024, any adverse action taken against an employee within 90 days of the employee’s protected activity is presumed to be retaliatory.
In other words, state law assumes that your disciplinary action taken after the employee complained is unlawful unless proven otherwise. You can overcome this presumption by demonstrating a legitimate, nonretaliatory reason for the action. Therefore, although discipline is allowed within the 90-day window, your action requires careful consideration. A clear and consistent process, supported by detailed documentation, can help overcome the presumption of retaliation, which otherwise could result in costly litigation.
Although avoiding retaliation is key, it is just as important to handle disciplinary actions consistently.
Consistency Is Critical
Apply your disciplinary policies consistently to all employees, regardless of whether they’ve made a complaint. Following a consistent process may help you overcome any presumption of retaliation as well as complaints of disparate treatment from other employees.
One way to assess your motives is to ask yourself how you would treat other employees having similar performance problems but who haven’t engaged in a protected activity. If you would issue a warning or start a performance improvement plan (PIP), do the same here. Treating an employee differently because of their complaint could be considered retaliation.
If other employees with similar performance issues have faced similar consequences, documented proof of consistent treatment can demonstrate further that your decision is based on performance, not the employee’s complaint.
Documentation Is Key
If you haven’t already, start documenting every instance of an employee’s poor performance. Ideally, you want documentation showing that performance problems existed before the complaint. This establishes a clear record that disciplinary actions are due to ongoing issues, not the complaint itself.
Many employers overlook the importance of documenting performance issues from the start and end up documenting issues only after an employee complains. This can create the appearance of retaliation, as the timing of the documentation coming immediately after the complaint may seem suspicious.
To avoid bad timing, document issues as they arise to demonstrate that your actions are based on legitimate business reasons, not the employee’s protected activity.
If the employee’s performance issues continue after their complaint, continue to document those issues. Be specific about dates, instances and any efforts to help the employee improve.
Well-documented records can help show that you’re handling the situation fairly and consistently. Also consider whether any additional support, such as coaching or mentoring, might help the employee improve. Showing a genuine effort to help the employee succeed reinforces that any disciplinary action is based on performance rather than their complaint.
By being consistent, documenting thoroughly, and following a clear process, you can address performance issues while minimizing the risk of retaliation claims.
By Vanessa Greene | Article courtesy of HR Watchdog
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Amir Indian Grocery
Hi- Flex Advanced Soft Tissue Therapy
52 Asian Market
Imperial Physical Therapy P.C.
Windsor Antiques and Vintage Lifestyle by DXTR Co.
BUSINESS CARD SPOTLIGHT
ADVERTISE HERE FOR ONLY $50!
JOSEPH FLORES
As of the February 21, 2025, deadline, California legislators introduced approximately 2,350 bills for the 2025–2026 session. This number reflects the current cap, where each legislator is limited to introducing 35 bills over the two-year cycle.
Presently, these bills are undergoing committee reviews, where they are evaluated and debated before potentially advancing to floor votes. As we progress into April, May, and June, key legislative deadlines approach, including:
April 30: Last day for policy committees to hear and report fiscal bills to fiscal committees.
May 27: Last day for fiscal committees to report bills to the floor.
June 4–8: Floor session only; no committee may meet for any purpose.
June 15: Budget Bill must be passed by midnight.
These deadlines are crucial for the timely progression of legislation, ensuring that bills move through the necessary stages to become law.
Notably, this session has focused on affordability, potential federal government cuts, and natural disaster response, reflecting the state’s current priorities.
As these bills advance, stakeholders and the public are encouraged to engage with the legislative process, provide input, and stay informed about developments that may impact various sectors across California. Please get in touch with the Chamber with any questions or comments about legislation affecting your business.
DON’T FORGET TO JOIN OUR LEGISLATIVE ACTION COMMITTEE MEETINGS ON ZOOM, ON THE 3RD THURSDAY OF EACH MONTH! KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THE REGISTRATION EMAIL!
READY TO YOUR BUSINESS?
6 WAYS TO BLOSSOM INTO YOUR FULL POTENTIAL IN BUSINESS POTENTIAL IN BUSINESS
I often wonder if flowers or plants ever ‘think’ before they bloom. If they ever hold back and retract back into the dirt at the fear of being ‘too much’ or at the fear of failing … probably not.
This then makes humans likely to be the only species on Earth that are actually scared of growing and reaching our full potential. Pretty crazy when you think about it. It’s crazy that we willingly choose to spend so much time laying in the dirt, debating the merits of blooming when we could be breaking through the soil and soaring up towards the sky, living a life beyond our wildest of dreams.
ASK YOURSELF:
Where are you choosing to stay in the dirt? Where are you holding yourself captive? How often do you silence the truth of what it is that you ACTUALLY want? What hours have you wasted in a job that doesn’t fulfill you because you thought that was the best option for you to survive in the world?
How much time have you spent studying something that doesn’t interest you purely because you were told that you were good at it in high school so you thought it was the only way?
How long are you going to convince yourself that your career is ‘just fine’ when really, you’re just too scared to admit that you’re not happy in it because you’re afraid and don’t know where to go next?
Often we choose to stay in the dirt because we think that is the best way for us to survive. We think that staying in the dirt is the most practical way we are going to be able to pay our bills and meet our needs in the world. We’re so convinced that our passion ‘isn’t enough’ to fully sustain us that we end up defending our choice to stay small, arguing that we are just being ‘responsible’ or ‘a realist’ when really, we’re just scared of failure.
As a business coach, I believe that your career should be a vehicle for your own selfexpression. It should completely fulfill you in every way possible – that is your BIRTHRIGHT. And so here are 6 ways to help you get out of the dirt, create the business of your dreams and bloom into your full potential.
1‒Doaself-audit
This is where you need to completely reassess everything in your life and whether or not it is truly fulfilling you. Does your job make you happy? Are you in a thriving relationship? Do you love where you live? Do you feel strong and energized in your physical body? Does your lifestyle bring you joy? Do you feel health and vitality? Are you making time and space for all the things that you love to do? Are you hiding from your truth? What could be different?
Write down all the things that are working and the things that are not. Remember that this is a complete reassessment of your life so make sure you’re completely honest. No excuses or ‘realistic’ attitudes, your wants and desires are always valid. It doesn’t matter how crazy or out of reach they sound!
2‒Followyourfreedom
Pay attention to what feels good for you. Bring your awareness to all the moments throughout the day that bring you joy. What were you doing in those moments? How did you feel? I love getting my clients to keep a ‘joy journal’, something they write in every day and share all the moments that brought them joy. They can be as simple and meaningless as you like. Over the period of a few months, compare each daily journal entry and see if you can find any consistencies or common themes. This allows you to discover where you feel most free. This is what you need to be doing more of, every day, and essentially getting paid a lot of money for it.
3‒Setgoalsinalignmentwithyourdreams/passions
Reaching your potential every day is about setting goals that are in alignment with what matters to you. Focus on what makes you feel free, what brings you the most happiness, what’s in total alignment with your passions, and what you want to achieve long term. Remember that only you set these goals. Don’t let anybody else tell you what your goals should be or whether or not they are ‘realistic.’ In fact, set goals so big and outlandish that they actually feel a little out of reach.
4‒Takeaction
This is the scary part for a lot of people. The dreaded execution! I know it feels terrifying but remember that anyone who has ever accomplished anything great did so because of the actions they were dedicated to. You can dream, think and manifest everything you want to create but without action, nothing will change. You can always start small. What are 3 actions you could commit to today that would help you grow into your potential? If part of growing into your potential involves making time for self-care, your action might be something as simple as having a bath twice a week. If part of growing into your potential involves starting that business you’ve always dreamed of, the action part might be dedicating a couple of hours to research it.
5 ‒ Stay persistent
The ability to continue firmly in your purpose in spite of challenging conditions and persist on your path regardless of setbacks (and believe me, there will be setbacks) –IS a trait common to all those that make it. Think about wildflowers and their ability to grow despite the conditions they’re given. Have you ever seen the way that flowers are able to bloom even through concrete plates on the sidewalk? You can’t always change the conditions, you just need to accept them and keep going.
6 ‒ Embrace failure
Remember that failure is not the opposite of success, failure is part of success. We all experience ‘failure’ on our journeys, major setbacks and moments where we feel so deep out of our comfort zone that we want to run away and retract back into the dirt. Remember the ways in which flowers bloom. Occasionally, there is a drought and the bloom can’t be sustained and so the flower ‘dies’. But even in this ‘death’, new seeds will germinate and grow into new flowers and fresh beginnings. The lesson is, you can never truly fail. The only way to fail is to give up. SO just keep going!
Article by Tarryn Reeves, The Authority Architect for 7 and 8 Figure Entrepreneurs, USA Today Bestselling Author, Book Coach, Publisher, Ghostwriter, Freelance Writer and Speaker https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/6-ways-bloom-your-full-potential-business-tarryn-reeves
As we enter the second quarter of 2025, the City of Adelanto remains focused on advancing key initiatives that support economic growth, improve infrastructure, and create new opportunities for businesses and residents alike.
One of the most promising developments recently approved by the Planning Commission is a 9.68-acre commercial project located at the corner of Auburn Avenue and Raccoon Avenue. This project is designed with both function and aesthetics in mind. Modern office spaces and a future coffee shop will be positioned along the frontage, creating an inviting and professional environment for businesses and visitors. Situated behind these commercial spaces will be a well-planned storage facility and RV parking, offering practical services while maintaining an attractive streetscape. The site’s unique layout reflects a thoughtful approach to land use, blending essential services with high-quality design that complements the city’s broader vision for commercial development.
Additionally, the Adelanto Road Water Main Capital Improvement Project is progressing well ahead of schedule. Originally anticipated for completion in early Q3, this $5.29 million investment—funded entirely through Adelanto Public Utility Authority (APUA) reserves—is now on track to be completed by early Q2 2025. This major infrastructure upgrade includes the installation of a new 18-inch water main connected to the high-pressure line along Air Expressway. It will significantly enhance fire protection and ensure reliable water service for the northeast sector of Adelanto, positioning the area for future industrial, residential, and commercial expansion.
These projects demonstrate Adelanto’s commitment to building a strong foundation for sustainable growth and long-term economic success.
Learn more at ci.adelanto.ca.us
MAYOR SCOTT NASSIF - APPLE VALLEY
The second quarter of 2025 is here, and the Town of Apple Valley continues to experience strong economic growth with new development that will create job opportunities, expand retail options, and enhance our business community.
In March, the Town celebrated the groundbreaking of Lecangs Loctek’s 1.2 million-square-foot distribution center. Projects like this not only bring hundreds of jobs to our local workforce but also extend critical infrastructure, paving the way for additional commercial and residential development.
Several new shopping centers are set to open in 2025. The Apple Bear Center, a 39,000-square-foot project, is currently under construction on the south side of Bear Valley Road, east of Apple Valley Road, and will be home to Sprouts Farmers Market and Raising Cane’s. Additionally, across Bear Valley Road, east of Lowe’s, we will welcome Hobby Lobby, Marshalls, and Five Below. The Buffalo Trading Post Plaza, another 39,000-square-foot center, was recently approved at the southeast corner of Rancherias Road and Highway 18 and will include an Aldi grocery store, Dutch Bros, Wendy’s, Chipotle, and other tenants.
Starting April 1, 2025, businesses in Apple Valley will begin collecting an additional 1% sales tax following the voter-approved passage of Measure P. This initiative is expected to generate approximately $9 million annually in locally controlled revenue, funding the addition of 8 to 10 deputies for the Apple Valley Police Department and supporting the maintenance and improvement of critical infrastructure throughout the Town. Funds will become available starting July 1, 2025, ensuring the Town remains financially stable in the years ahead.
As our business sector grows, we encourage residents and visitors to support local establishments. Whether dining at a locally owned restaurant or utilizing professional services within the Town, these choices contribute to Apple Valley’s continued success.
Here’s to a season of growth and opportunity!
Learn more at applevalley.org.
MAYOR ALLISON LEE - HESPERIA
Industrial development in Hesperia continues to drive new employment opportunities, with Hesperia Commerce Center II at Highway 395 and Phelan Road progressing through its second plan check. The 2.5 million-square-foot industrial facility is expected to generate 1,000 full-time and 1,000 construction-related jobs, further expanding employment opportunities in the City.
This momentum follows the recent development of Maersk’s distribution center and the Kiss Logistics Center, which is currently in final review before construction begins. Once completed, Kiss Logistics will add over 620 permanent full-time jobs and 1,100 construction-related jobs to the area. With these projects and Hesperia Commerce Center II, the City continues to attract major employers who contribute to a strong local economy.
As large-scale projects progress, new businesses are also opening their doors, adding to the City’s growing commercial landscape. IHOP recently opened at Main Street and I Avenue, occupying the former Country Kitchen, while McDonald’s has joined the area at Fashion Court and Ranchero Road. Looking ahead, Dutch Bros Coffee is set to be constructed at Main Street and Eleventh Avenue, replacing the former China Palace Buffet. Popeyes will soon follow at Fashion Court and Ranchero Road, directly next to McDonald’s, and Jamba Juice is preparing to open its first Hesperia location at Main Street and C Avenue.
With industrial expansion bringing jobs and new businesses enhancing local services, Hesperia remains a place where economic growth and opportunity go hand in hand.
Learn more at cityofhesperia.us
MAYOR ELIZABETH BECERRA - VICTORVILLE
I am very pleased to report that business development continues in Victorville, and we are experiencing growth in a variety of sectors.
At our Southern California Logistics Airport, ProLogis is currently constructing a 1.3 million square foot warehouse facility for Goodyear Tire, just north of the Amazon Fulfillment Center. We’re also refurbishing Building 686 to generate new revenue for the airport, which is 99 percent occupied. Once retrofitted, this 59,000-square-foot-building will be ideal for aircraft asset management. At the site of the former golf course at SCLA, Covington Group is planning a large 2.5 million square foot development including three industrial buildings.
Commercial growth in Victorville will extend beyond the airport. Our first Raising Cane’s will be located on Roy Rogers near Winco, Pollo Campero will be located off Mariposa Road, a second Dutch Bros. is coming to the northeast corner of Palmdale Road and Cantina Street, and the first Five Below in the High Desert Region will open within the Victor Valley Center off Bear Valley Road.
Currently, six hotel brands are in plan review or under construction in Victorville including the first Residence Inn in the Victor Valley. This 152-room, long-term stay hotel will be located on two acres at the corner of Bear Valley Road and Mariposa Road – just north of the WSS Shoe Store.
A 1.35 million square foot warehouse distribution center at Mojave Drive and Topaz Road was approved and will continue the permitting process for future construction, and another 1.1 million square foot industrial development is planned for Mojave Drive and Mesa Linda Avenue.
This growth brings jobs to our Victorville residents and strengthens our economy. We are grateful to the businesses that are investing in Victorville.
http://www.happytrails.org Community Organizations
Magda Torrellas
High Desert, CA Individual Member
DO YOU HAVE YOUR CHAMBER PLAQUE?
Majestic Cycling (909) 297-6353
High Desert, CA
http://www.majesticcycling.com Cycling
Motel 6/ Studio 6 (760) 947-0094
4757 Cataba Rd. Hesperia, CA 92345
gm.motel6hesperia@finehospitality. com
Hotels/Motels
IF NOT, PICK YOURS UP AT THE NEXT VMI TO PROUDLY DISPLAY IN YOUR BUSINESS!
Sleep Number (760) 843-5525
12717 Main St., Ste 520 Hesperia, CA 92345
http://Sleepnumber.com Retail Store
Victor Valley Branch NAACP 1082 (909) 493-4309
14240 St. Andrews St., Ste. 102 Victorville, CA 92392
Community Organizations
TransFormNation Training & Development, LLC. - Dr. Kenisha Williams
Matthew Hawkins State Farm Insurance Agent - Matthew Hawkins
Town of Apple Valley - Orlando Acevedo
Legal Shield Business Solutions - Terry Fitch
Notary Public - Allison M. Slater
High Desert Community Foundation - Deanna Wilson
Imperial Home Health & Hospice - Johnathan Caballero
Edible and Jet Room, Inc. – Manny Serrano
Optimum Audiology - Dr. Kristina Mendoza
Providence St. Mary Medical Center - Mike Johnson
ICR Staffing Services, Inc. - Joshua Narcisse
High Desert Sports Foundation and YONNIK, LLC. - Dr. Nakia Wilson
Sunland Ford - James “JC” Campbell
Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce - Mark Creffield
3 WAYS TO
SHIFT YOUR MINDSET FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS
If you are concerned that negativity is bringing you down, and you are worried about your ability to keep moving forward, it might be time to shift your mindset for business success.
FAILURE ISN’T THE END
Each mistake is something you can learn from. Build on these learning experiences, tweaking and making changes as you go.
BUSY-NESS ISN’T BUSINESS
Ask yourself: What are you busy doing? Recognize the essential things you should and shouldn’t be doing.
When you are tempted to let fear shut you down, think of the ways that fear might be helping you. Fear might be an indication that you are working on something innovative that could mean big things. LOOK FOR THE GOOD IN FEAR
Coffee Break (In-person at High Desert location) - $100
Sponsorship is for four (4) consecutive In-Person Coffee Breaks. Company logo in the Coffee Break PowerPoint. Recognition at the Coffee Break.
Social Media tags when event photos published.
Recognition in reminder blast emails.
Coffee Break Update (Monthly Zoom event) - $75
Sponsorship for the monthly Zoom Coffee Break Update. Company logo in the Coffee Break Update PowerPoint. Recognition during the Zoom event.
2 Minutes of talk time.
Recognition in reminder blast emails.
GUEST SPEAKER: JJ BORJA 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM//////LOCATION
CHAMBER CALENDAR
APRIL MAY JUNE
Valley Morning Insight - State of EducationReservations Required
Victorville Conference Center
7:30am
Coffee Break Update - Reservations Required Via Zoom
